Jupiter Officials Connect with Residents
Town, city and county officials play critical roles in our quality of life. While media attention focuses mostly on national or state government actions, local officials often have a greater direct impact on our homes and families. They are responsible for the police, fire, ambulance, land use, transportation, hurricane response, clean water, recreation and education services we rely on every day.
The Town of Jupiter has created a new way to make direct, personal contact with its elected and appointed officials. It’s called Connect with Council, or Connect. The idea came from Vice Mayor Malise Sundstrom. She received support from Mayor Jim Kuretski and other Council members to make this an ongoing Town activity.
“Town Council meetings can be very formal, even intimidating,” Sundstrom said. “We wanted to provide residents and business owners with a more relaxed environment to meet with Council members. An environment where they can get to know us and raise any concerns they may have. At the same time, these events allow the Town to provide more in-depth information on matters that affect everyday life in Jupiter.”
Here’s how it works: Any resident who has something to discuss about a Town activity can speak face to face with the responsible Town officials at Connect events. These occur throughout the year at locations such as a coffee shop or a town facility. There is no time limit on individual interactions. Residents can approach any official who can answer a question or explain a decision.
People voting early on a recent October evening at the Town Civic Center were able to walk out of the polling station and into a Connect get together. Information about current road projects, police activities, zoning decisions, the new Town fire/emergency services department and many other current matters was easily accessible to any resident.
The Connect atmosphere is relaxed. Written materials on myriad subjects can be picked up, such a schedule for park and recreation opportunities. If residents want an update on a major infrastructure project, such as the new U.S. 1 Bridge, Connect is the place to get answers. Follow up information and visits with staff and elected officials can be arranged. There is no waiting on hold while a disembodied voice tells callers that “their call is very important.” Connect is the complete opposite of that experience.
“I enjoy attending Connect with Council so I can communicate with residents face to face about our vision of the Police Department and answer any questions,” Police Chief Michael Barbera said. “Most attendees are eager to learn about their local government and I love taking the time to showcase our Police Department and how much we enjoy having a partnership with the community.”
Other local governments also share the spirit of Connect: Palm Beach Gardens has Coffee with the Mayor. Juno Beach has Coffee with a Cop. Boca Raton has an annual State of the City gathering where residents can easily interact with the Mayor and elected officials. If you have other examples of open, informal, local government access events, let us know at rbwatchnow@gmail.com.
To learn about upcoming Connects, go to https://www.jupiter.fl.us/2029/Connect-with-Council
— Rich Bartholomew, Advocacy Chair