Despite recent struggles with red tide blooms that led to the closure of at least one island beach, and continued challenges in financing road projects, County Administrator Howard Tipton remains optimistic for St. Lucie County.
“The state of the county is strong,” he said to a full room of St. Lucie Chamber of Commerce members and guests. “It’s getting stronger, and with a continued team approach, our future will continue to shine bright.”
Tipton used the annual platform to encourage those in attendance to vote – and highlighted the Half-Cent Sales Tax Initiative, which is the last question on the ballot. “I encourage you to start at the back and work your way forward,” Tipton said.
County and municipal leaders have been making the rounds at numerous civic and homeowner meetings to educate voters on the Half-Cent Sales Tax ballot question. Unable to use government funding on advocacy, they have focused on explaining what the millions of dollars would be used for, how the funds would be divvied up and overseen, and what would happen if the funding were rejected.
Tipton shared with the audience that growth in St. Lucie is strong, and not just within residential sectors. Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute is poised for expansion, as are several other businesses around the county. Other business changes of note include Martin Health System, which recently announced its merger with Cleveland Clinic.
Tipton said to those who haven’t been paying attention, “this is a really big deal … it really raises the game here.”
Martin also announced its intent to expand with a neuroscience center at Tradition, representing a $30 million investment and 150 jobs.
Yet for all the growth and cooperation among the local governments, the environment continues to pose a challenge.
During the annual Chamber State of the County address, Tipton said crews were clearing dead fish from the local beaches as he spoke. Red tide, naturally occurring as it is, has been feeding on the ever-growing amount of nutrients spilling into waterways.
“I pray we never get used to this new normal,” Tipton said, adding that it is his hope that all will continue to fight for the environment. Working relationships with the county’s municipalities are something to be proud of, he added, explaining that, with one voice, St. Lucie County’s representatives can be heard in Tallahassee.
Looking to the future, Tipton pointed to the county’s purchase of the working waterfront, which would lead to mega-yachts making stops in the county. “It was a bold move and took political courage,” Tipton said, adding “this is a transformation change.”
A customs building has been completed at the Treasure Coast International Airport, which will enable locals to enroll in the Trusted Traveler/Global Entry program without having to drive to either the Orlando or Miami international airports.
“The future of the airport is ready to take off,” Tipton said with a grin while the audience groaned.
The Sunshine Kitchen – a commercial-grade kitchen meant for caterers and home hobbyists alike – will soon celebrate its grand opening. And solar farming has become an alternative to citrus farming. Florida Power & Light has been busy installing solar farms in agricultural areas around the state in an effort to diversify its power supply.
Tipton said it’s not just one factor that keeps St. Lucie County strong. “It takes teamwork to win the day,” he said, noting that St. Lucie has that winning team.
