West Palm Beach City Commission approves property transfer to Sickle Cell Foundation and new waste fees

The West Palm Beach City Commission meeting on May 12, 2025, focused on two significant agenda items: the conveyance of city-owned property to the Sickle Cell Foundation and amendments to the solid waste collection franchise regulations.

The first item, a public hearing and second reading of Ordinance Number 5129-25, involved the approval of the sale of a city-owned property located at 815 Palm Beach Lakes Boulevard to the Sickle Cell Foundation of Palm Beach County. Commissioner Warren recused himself from the discussion due to his employment with the foundation. The ordinance was presented by Jennifer Ferriero, the Housing and Community Development Director, who confirmed that there were no changes from the previous meeting where it was initially approved. The commission unanimously voted in favor of the ordinance, facilitating the transfer of the property to support the foundation's initiatives.

The second item addressed was the first reading of Ordinance Number 5133-25, which proposed amendments to the solid waste collection franchise regulations. Public Works Director Leon Pinder explained that the ordinance aims to change the fee structure for large commercial waste haulers from a volume-based fee to a percentage of the hauler's gross revenue. This change, recommended by an independent study, is intended to enhance transparency and ease of auditing for the city. The new fee structure would not affect residential services or small businesses, focusing instead on the seven franchise holders that manage large waste collections. The commission discussed the potential impacts on these businesses, with some expressing support for the new formula due to its simplicity.

The commission scheduled a second reading for both ordinances on May 27, 2025, marking a step forward in the city’s efforts to improve community services and regulatory practices.