From the TCPalm newsroom, here are the top five stories from the Treasure Coast this week:
Florida city OK’s $24M in tax credits after garbage settlement
Port St. Lucie property owners are getting a tax credit after the city’s $24 million settlement with former trash hauler Waste Pro. Homeowners who owned the same property since 2022 will receive a $364 credit, while newer residents will get $64. The city sued Waste Pro over years of missed pickups and service complaints. Credits will appear on this year’s tax bills. Reporter Jack Randall brings you all the details.
1877 tall ship Elissa stops in Fort Pierce ahead of 250 celebration in New York
The historic 1877 tall ship Elissa sailed past the Fort Pierce Jetty on June 15 as part of the national Sail4th 250 voyage leading up to America’s 250th anniversary celebration. The Galveston-based ship stopped in Fort Pierce for fuel, supplies and rest before continuing toward New York Harbor for July 4th. Click through a gallery of Crystal Vander Weit’s stunning images of the ship.
Florida judge says Martin County teacher should keep his job
Reporter Keith Burbank brought you the story of a state judge’s recommendation that a Martin County teacher keep his job after social media comments he made following Charlie Kirk’s assassination. The judge said Matthew Theobald should also receive back pay and benefits, citing his strong teaching record and lack of prior discipline. The school district still has the final say, with the School Board set to review the recommendation.
Should Florida county consider different site for Brightline station?
Martin County leaders are considering whether to move a proposed Brightline station from downtown Stuart to the current county fairgrounds. Commissioner Ed Ciampi says the move could avoid objections from Florida East Coast Railway tied to bridge rules near the St. Lucie River. The county is seeking nearly $70 million in federal funding for the project.
Florida waterfront public park could become mega-yacht marina facility
St. Lucie County is considering whether Museum Pointe Park in Fort Pierce could be redeveloped into a mega-yacht marina as part of its updated port master plan. Officials say nothing has been approved, and the aquarium would stay in place. The concept could include docks, public amenities, a fishing pier, restaurant space and a possible water taxi connection. TCPalm’s Laurie Blandford brings you the full report.
USA TODAY NETWORK – Florida video editor Rob Landers is a veteran journalist covering the Sunshine State and beyond for nearly three decades. Email him at rlanders@usatodayco.com
This article originally appeared on Treasure Coast Newspapers: Garbage credit, Florida teacher Kirk comment, park plan & more – Top 5
Reporting by Rob Landers, USA TODAY NETWORK – Florida / Treasure Coast Newspapers
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Rob Landers, USA TODAY NETWORK – Florida | USA TODAY Network
