Riviera Beach, Florida Development News
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Council Meeting July 1, 2026
Published: Jul 1, 2026
New Direct Pay Policy Approved to Expedite Payments for Local Subcontractors
The council approved Resolution No. 78-26, enacting a direct pay policy for local subcontractors on non-construction service contracts. This policy aims to expedite payments to local small businesses by allowing direct payment from the city, with adjustments to the prime contractor's payment. The policy is intended to further aid small businesses by providing quicker access to funds.
Riviera Beach Celebrates All-American City Designation, Highlighting Community Programs
The council received a presentation and celebrated the city's designation as an All-American City by the National Civic League. Dr. George Cornichelli introduced the CORE framework (Communities of Resilience and Excellence) as a quality improvement model for municipalities. The All-American City award recognizes cities with outstanding programs, community engagement, and civic infrastructure. Riviera Beach was one of ten communities nationwide to receive this honor, highlighting its youth council, citizen leadership academy, and neighborhood reclaim programs. Several participants, including youth council members, parents, community partners, and city officials, shared their experiences and expressed pride in the city's achievement. The award is seen as a significant recognition of the city's hard work and commitment to its residents.
Council Debates Legal Fee Advancement Policy Amidst Elected Official Investigations; Approves City Manager Search RFP
Councilwoman Shirley Lair raised concerns about the city's policy on advancing legal fees for officers and directors, particularly in light of potential investigations. She cited Florida law and court rulings establishing a public official's right to legal representation at public expense for official duties, arguing that a 'pay first, then reimburse' regime is naive and could have a chilling effect. She requested the council authorize direct payment of her attorney invoices under resolution 27-26. The council debated the nuances of when fees should be advanced versus reimbursed, referencing case law. A motion to advance legal fees was made and seconded but failed due to lack of support. Separately, the council discussed and ultimately voted to approve the issuance of an RFP for a city manager recruitment firm, indicating a move towards a formal search process.
City Council Renews 30-Year Gas Franchise Agreement with Florida Public Utilities
The council unanimously approved Ordinance No. 4316, renewing a 30-year non-exclusive franchise agreement with Florida Public Utilities Company. This agreement grants the company access to city rights-of-way to provide natural, manufactured, or mixed gas services to residents and businesses. This is a renewal of a previous expired agreement.
Riviera Beach Council Debates City Manager's Contract Extension Amidst Concerns, Approves RFP for New Search
The council discussed extending the contract of the interim city manager, Mr. Wilkins, who has been in his role since April 14th, 2025, surpassing his initial 120-day limit. Several council members expressed concerns regarding communication, lack of updates on city projects, and Mr. Wilkins's past experience and alleged susceptibility to influence from other board members. Others supported an extension, citing his experience and the need for stability during budget workshops. A motion was made to offer a one-year agreement, subject to council hiring a new city manager, with an exit ramp and prorated severance. After amendments and considerable debate, the motion passed with Councilwoman Miller Anderson dissenting. Separately, the council also voted to approve a motion to have staff put out an RFP for a recruitment firm to search for a new city manager, which passed unanimously. The council also discussed and agreed upon a schedule for summer recess, with no meetings from July 16th to July 31st, adjusting the utility district meeting to July 14th and resuming city council meetings on August 11th for budget workshops.
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The Riviera Beach News archive
CRA Meeting July 8, 2026
Utility Special District Meeting June 17, 2026
Council Meeting June 17, 2026
Utility District Part 2 June 17, 2026
CRA Meeting June 10, 2026
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