Staying Informed: Important Updates for Our Community

At the North County Neighborhood Coalition (NCNC), we believe that staying informed and engaged is one of the most important ways we can advocate for our neighborhoods and the quality of life of our residents.

This summer, NCNC Board members have been closely following several issues that could have a significant impact on our communities. From transportation and property taxes to changes within the Palm Beach County Clerk’s Office, we remain committed to keeping our members informed and ensuring their voices are heard.

 

Northlake Boulevard Widening Proposal Denied

The proposal to widen Northlake Boulevard to eight lanes was brought back for discussion this summer, renewing an issue NCNC has been following and advocating on for several years.

A majority of NCNC member communities have expressed concerns about the proposed reconstruction and its potential effects on surrounding neighborhoods, quality of life, wildlife, and the sensitive ecosystem of the Grassy Waters Preserve.

Throughout the summer, NCNC Board members remained actively engaged—making calls, attending meetings and public hearings, and advocating for the concerns and priorities of our member communities and residents.

The proposal came before the Palm Beach County Board of County Commissioners at its Comprehensive Plan public hearing on Wednesday, August 26. Following public discussion, the Board voted 5–1 to deny the proposal to expand Northlake Boulevard to eight lanes.

NCNC Board members attended the meeting on behalf of NCNC and our member communities. The decision represents an important example of why community involvement matters and why it is so important for residents to stay engaged in the issues affecting their neighborhoods.

 

Understanding the Upcoming Property Tax Amendment

Property taxes are another important issue NCNC is following closely.

Florida voters will consider a proposed constitutional amendment on the November 2026 ballot that would increase the homestead property tax exemption and establish a framework for the potential future elimination of homestead property taxes. The amendment would require approval by at least 60% of voters to pass.

Because changes to property taxes could have a significant impact on local government revenues and the services provided to residents, understanding what is actually being proposed is essential.

To help our community better understand the amendment and its potential impact, Florida State Representative Emily Gregory and Palm Beach County Property Appraiser Dorothy Jacks have provided informative presentations and resources. Click here to review these resources. 

The City of Palm Beach Gardens has also held a public meeting to discuss the potential financial implications of the amendment. According to the City, the proposed increase in the homestead exemption could result in approximately $24 million in annual property-tax revenue loss for the City once fully phased in. Click here to watch the City Council Workshop. 

We encourage residents to take the time to review the available information, understand the potential implications, and make an informed decision when voting this fall.

Update from the Palm Beach County Clerk’s Office

There has also been a leadership change at the Palm Beach County Clerk of the Circuit Court & Comptroller’s Office.

Following the suspension of former Clerk Michael Caruso by Governor Ron DeSantis, Shannon Ramsey-Chessman was appointed Clerk Ad Interim by an administrative order issued by Chief Judge Glenn Kelley. She will serve in the position during the interim period.

The Clerk’s Office has confirmed that its phone number and website will remain unchanged.

Residents who have questions about Clerk’s Office services or ongoing matters can continue to use the existing contact information and website.

https://www.mypalmbeachclerk.com/

Staying Engaged Matters

These issues are a reminder that decisions made at the county, city, and state levels can have a direct impact on our neighborhoods.

NCNC will continue monitoring these and other issues affecting our member communities and will keep residents informed as new information becomes available.

We encourage all residents to stay engaged, attend public meetings when possible, learn about the issues, and make their voices heard.

Together, an informed community is a stronger community.