Westgate CRA keeps decorative streetlights after copper-wire thefts; board elects Daniels chair, Rufty vice-chair

The Westgate/Belvedere Homes Community Redevelopment Agency on June 8 voted to retain its existing decorative streetlights on Westgate Avenue and asked staff to pursue security alternatives after repeated copper-wire thefts and vandalism.

Executive Director Elizée Michel reported that thieves have repeatedly stolen copper wiring and vandalized junction boxes on the streetscape lighting. The Sheriff's Office has opened an investigation but had no leads at the time of the meeting, and deputies who briefed the board characterized the thefts as occurring at night when there is less traffic.

County Engineering and the Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office asked the CRA to consider switching to solar-powered streetlights, which staff said are typically less attractive to thieves because batteries and panels have a smaller resale market than copper wire. Board members were told that replacing the installed decorative lights with solar fixtures would cost the CRA more than $1.75 million and that FDOT has requested reimbursement for lights already installed.

Staff recommended against a wholesale conversion and proposed instead that the board retain the current decorative lights while exploring other security options. Joanne Rufty moved and Teliska Wolliston seconded a motion to keep the existing lights and authorize staff to investigate security alternatives; the motion passed unanimously (4-0).

At the same meeting the board formalized its leadership for the coming year. Following nominations under the CRA by-laws, the board approved Ronald L. Daniels to continue as chair and Joanne Rufty as vice-chair; members will forward the results to the Palm Beach County Board of County Commissioners for formal approval.

Staff also reported that the Cherry Road streetscape project is complete and that the agency plans a walk-through to close the project. Denise Pennell, director of planning and development, updated the board on the Countywide Master Transportation Plan and said several groups have expressed opposition to a proposed elevated grade separation on Okeechobee Boulevard; the board directed staff to communicate its concerns to the CTMP team.

The meeting included a brief police activity briefing from Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office Deputies Gomez and Robinson and a schedule of upcoming community outreach events from redevelopment specialist Mai Bui. The board adjourned at 5:44 p.m.