Juno Beach council appoints interim member and adopts one‑year moratorium on new development

The Juno Beach Town Council voted 3–1 on Dec. 12 to appoint a successor to the vacant Seat 3 and to adopt a moratorium on new commercial and multifamily development while the town completes a new master plan.

The vote followed weeks of procedural options the council weighed at a special meeting called by the mayor. The mayor outlined two paths: appointing a replacement under the town charter or reopening qualifications for the March municipal election. Town staff told council that reopening the March qualification period could cost the town about $20,000, far less than an earlier estimate for a standalone special election, but several council members and residents said the short holiday timetable would limit public notice and participation.

Supporters of appointment argued the council could immediately restore a full five‑member body to carry on urgent business. A council member who moved the motion to appoint and to pair it with a development moratorium said the approach would give the town time to finish its master plan before new permits are approved. The motion was seconded and passed on roll call, 3–1.

Residents who spoke during the meeting offered mixed views. Some urged a public election to avoid any appearance of favoritism and to let voters choose their representative; others urged appointment because they said a stand‑alone election would cost taxpayers and draw low turnout. A clerk‑read batch of written comments summarized both positions and asked the council to consider timing and transparency when setting a qualifying period.

To create a transparent appointment process, the council set an application deadline of noon on Dec. 17 and directed the town clerk to post the residency affidavit and state ethics Form 1 instructions online. Council members discussed whether interviews should be private one‑on‑one meetings or public; several members said interviews should be fair and give candidates time to prepare.

The moratorium the council adopted applies to new development in the town’s commercial and multifamily zoning districts and is intended to remain in force through the master‑planning process. Town staff told council that an ordinance would be required to enact a moratorium, and the town attorney outlined that procedure during the meeting.

Council members said the next council meeting on Dec. 17 will include the appointment agenda item and allow the council to review applications and, if desired, interview candidates. The clerk confirmed she will post application materials and verify Form 1 filings for any applicant.

The council’s action leaves the seat filled by appointment until the next regular election cycle specified in council rules or until the council places the seat on a ballot as allowed by law. The council did not set a date for seating a new member prior to Dec. 17. The council adjourned after confirming the application deadline and next steps.