Community Forum Features Updates from Clerk, Inspector General and Emergency Management

Commissioner Santamaria

Commissioner Santamaria

Commissioner Jess Santamaria held his monthly community forum on June 20 at the original Wellington Mall.
Guest speakers included Palm Beach County Clerk and Comptroller Sharon Bock, Inspector General Sheryl Steckler, and Emergency Management Director Bill Johnson. About 60 west-central area residents attended the gathering.

Bock reported that state budget cuts have forced her office to make a series of drastic reductions to meet a projected $2.5 million deficit. They include eliminating all overtime for her staff; closing the clerk’s Royal Palm Beach branch office; and cutting back public hours to 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays, effective July 2. Bock asked residents to lobby their state lawmakers and urge them to restore the $2.5 million, so that these service cutbacks can be avoided.

Steckler provided details on several contract oversight cases her office has investigated. She also mentioned that a new citizens initiative class has been created for those who wish to learn more about the powers and services of the Office of Inspector General.

Johnson gave a slide presentation on preparations for hurricane season, which runs through the end of November. “Have a plan, make a kit, and be informed,” he reminded the audience. Johnson explained important changes to the county’s evacuation zone maps, making them more accurate and reducing the number of residents who are in a mandatory evacuation zone. Johnson strongly advised residents to plan on staying in their homes, rather than trying to leave the area, should a major storm threaten.