People Are Asking

The Latest News: July, 2025

Two-day Lobster Sport Season Returns

July 26--The Keys Weekly reports With spiny lobster mini-season just a few days away, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission reminds boaters and divers to follow all regulations and practice safe boating and diving habits.

Spiny lobster sport mini-season starts at 12:01 a.m. on Wednesday and ends at 11:59 p.m. Thursday. A Florida recreational saltwater fishing license and a lobster permit are required.

KCB rules will be enforced. Beginning Saturday, July 26, and continuing until August 16 (ten days after the opening of the commercial lobster season), snorkeling and diving is prohibited in the canals and within 300 feet of the shoreline. City hall has a map of the boundaries of the prohibited areas.

"In this world nothing can be said to be certain, except ... taxes."

July 26--At the July 17 meeting, the city commission increased the proposed millage rate to $2.82 per thousand in assessed valuation. Commissioner Harding noted the $2.82 millage rate is above the statutory allowance and requires a super majority vote by the commission. If preserved, the new rate would represent a 8.29% increase over the rollback rate of 2.5890 (the millage that would generate the same amount of tax revenue as 2024-2025). Read the commission resolution here.

Property taxes will increase. Again. Property taxes and fees are driven by increased city spending and by inflation.

Meanwhile, Monroe County taxes are also likely to rise. The Florida Keys Free Press reports a Tax hike, funding cuts expected. The Monroe County Commission discussed the proposed $678.5 million fiscal year 2025-2026 budget that begins Oct. 1. The commission also raised the aggregate millage property tax rate to 3.3965 which is 0.6% above this year's aggregate rate of 3.3779 but it was said at the meeting that this millage is "likely to be the lowest in the state again."

Monroe County will add $4,000,0000 to its emergency disaster reserves for storm recovery, bringing the county total to $14,000,000.

Vanishing Reserves

July 26--Commissioner Harding said the "round number cost of the city hall work is $5,000,000."

$1,900,000 of the construction cost remains in the "hardening" grant and the rest will come from KCB taxpayer-funded KCB reserves. It will use ALL of the infrastructure reserve which was set aside to underwrites storm costs but that's okay because "it's not unusual for a city or town to get a line of credit for a storm," Harding said.

KCB's infrastructure was the first in the Keys to recover from Irma because a prior commission contracted for and staged cleanup and debris hauling well ahead of hurricane season and the city had cash reserves on hand to pay immediate expenses of the cleanup.

That will no longer be the case here.

Other Charges on Our Tax Bills

July 26--The commission postponed action on amending the city ordinance for sewers and sewage disposal monthly rates and charges. Commissioner Harding again discussed "fairness" while talking about increasing the residential and commercial waste water rate to $74 from $71. The "flat rate" does not account for usage. Many People Are Asking how it is fair that small homeowners subsidize storm and waste water fees.

What did the KCB City Commission do at the Public Hearing and Regular Meeting on July 17?

July 17--The commission appointed Doug Colonell vice mayor.

The commission addressed the vacancy caused by Joey Raspe's resignation. He was the third commissioner lost to resignation in less than two years. Vice mayor Colonell nominated Kirk Diehl. Commissioner Difransico nominated Fred Swanson. Both candidates introduced themselves. The commission voted 3:1 for Kirk Diehl.

Commissioner Difransico moved the asbestos abatement question from the consent items to an item to be discussed. The commission reported that public works director Mike Guarino had discovered the asbestos in Marble Hall despite the commission's previous asbestos survey and professional abatement that declared the building had been cleared. They approved the new abatement.

License plate readers will be installed on the Causeway as an expansion of and tie in to the existing system of readers throughout the Keys.

Mayor Foster noted the police department's "Hot dogs in the park was great. Kind of initiative I like to see." There will be more events in the months to come.

City administrator Bartus reported on some "scary changes from FEMA," particularly FEMA's new thresholds for the amount of damage they will require to make a disaster declaration.

The commission approved the ILA for the Stewardship Funds and learned that an existing agreement had expired. City administrator Bartus reported "the stakeholders have agreed to work together to distribute it as an equal partnership."

Commissioner Harding reported that the "budget documents are in good shape." He's still recommending increasing the millage rate to $2.82 per thousand in assessed valuation. He also noted the $2.82 millage rate is above the statutory allowance and requires a super majority vote by the commission. If preserved, the new rate would represent a 8.29% increase over the rollback rate of 2.5890 (the millage that would generate the same amount of property tax revenue as 2024-2025).

The commission postponed action on Ordinance 2025-500 amending the city ordinance for sewers and sewage disposal monthly rates and charges to the next meeting to allow staff to investigate. Commissioner Harding again discussed "fairness" while talking about increasing the residential and commercial waste water rate to $74 from $71. The "flat rate" does not account for usage.

Commissioner Difransico solicited more ideas for improving/making KCB more beautiful. An email blast went to the city mailing list (see the next item).

The commission discussed the use of Sunset Park. Mayor Foster said, "We need it not to be 'NoFunSet Park'."
Commissioner Difransico said, "I liked the idea of fishing off the pier at Sunset Park ... [but then he saw] two guys were fishing with all their gear and took up the all space there." That changed his mind. He also noted the city forbids swimming from that beach. Mayor Foster reported that he "just got a grant to make a section dedicated to fishing.
"There's gotta be a way for kids to get wet. Kids need a way to have fun." Mayor Foster said. Fishing and swimming at Sunset Park is prohibited by city code.
Sec. 5-9. - Fishing from the Sadowski Causeway Bridge and Sunset Park Observation Deck prohibited.
Fishing from the Sadowski Causeway Bridge and Sunset Park Observation Deck is prohibited. Violations of this section shall be subject to a fine as prescribed in subsection 1-10(k) of the Code of Ordinances.

Sec. 12-9. - Limitations on use of certain city park property.
(b) Sunset Park rules and regulations:
(4) Swimming, snorkeling, or wading in the park is prohibited. No persons are allowed into the water at any time. Crocodiles live in the coastal water of South Florida, and swift currents exist in the area immediately surrounding the park area, making the water unsafe.

Rec Committee Chair Cynthia Catto expressed concern that the commission is not obeying city ordinances for the operation of the Recreation Area committee. Mayor Foster said he has read all the ordinances and will investigate further.

Doug Lipke noted "Our understanding is there is a short term 90-day contract for the golf course. I'm requesting on behalf of a number of concerned citizens to enter into a two-year contract with Daryl [Rice] for the golf course."

Let's Enhance KCB

July 17--KCB has a new program to enhance recreational facilities and beautify Key Colony Beach. You may have noticed the new cornhole boxes on 7th and 1st Street Park, as well as the colorful flowerpots recently placed outside the Post Office.

Commissioner Difransico invites all residents to share their ideas and recommendations for potential projects. The Public Works Department, the Recreation Committee, and the Beautification Committee will plan and implement improvements.

Email your suggestions for enhancing or beautifying the city to city clerk Silvia Roussin.

County Keeps a Tax Increase, 50% Cuts to Nonprofits, and 20 Staff Layouts in Preliminary Budget

July 17--The Marathon Weekly reports that, Facing mounting scrutiny from the state Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) and uncertainty in future federal disaster assistance, the Monroe County Board of County Commissioners may look to a tax increase to build its emergency reserves. In a preliminary budget meeting lasting on July 15, commissioners elected to set a county wide maximum millage rate of 2.7327, or $273.27 per $100,000 in taxable home value, up from 2.6929 in 2024 dash 25. If preserved, the new rate would represent a 10.25% increase over the rollback rate of 2.4786 the millage that would generate the same amount of property tax revenue as 2024-2025. Some readers have reported difficulty with external links so we also have a local copy.

Special Meeting for the "90%" Drawings

July 17--The city commission held a special meeting in Marble Hall and on Zoom on Thursday, July 17, before the regular monthly meeting started. The meeting included a presentation by CPH Architect Brandan DeCaro on the "90% Design Development Drawings." The commission discussed the construction cost and approved the drawings.

Observations:
  • The interior is industrial design with exposed ductwork and hanging lights in the ceiling.
  • The design removes the original restroom windows leaving a blank wall which violates the city ordinance.
  • Whether it is a "tower" or not, the roofline is not harmonious in character and appearance with existing buildings in the neighborhood which violates the city ordinance. Further, the lack of after hours wheelchair access to the gym violates ADA regulations.
  • The plans still require architectural review by the Planning and Zoning Committee.
    • City Hall Drawings
  • There are eight seats or workstations plus a reception desk and mayor's office downstairs plus seats for seven police officers upstairs. That's about double the current staff.
  • There are stairs to the entrance veranda but the ramp from the causeway side of the building was disapproved. People who need a ramp to visit the lobby, the "fitness room," and the second floor will need to enter through the admin entrance.
  • The administrative offices remain completely isolated from the public, reached only through a gatekeeper office with a closed door from the hallway and a second closed door into the office area.
  • Administrative office access through the lobby requires climbing three steps to the lobby elevation and then going down four or more stairs to the admin floor.
  • The only ground floor records storage room below Base Flood Elevation.
    • Florida law requires municipalities to maintain and preserve public records, including permanent records, in a manner that ensures accessibility and prevents damage or loss. This involves storing records in their usual location or, for vital, permanent, or archival records, in fireproof and waterproof environments.
  • The second floor has an open balcony overlooking the lobby. The costly open atrium design could expand the department offices, conference space, or bathrooms.
  • The building department has a "reception area" when a Dutch door and counter can separate the public from the staff without the double doorway.
  • There no locker space in the fitness room bathroom.
  • The second floor restrooms have lockers and changing space but no showers for eight police officers.
  • There are additional mechanical and electrical rooms on the second floor but no janitor's closet.
  • The "tower" or "architectural element or feature of the proposed expansion, [that] does not have any correlation with the finish floor elevation" is not harmonious in character and appearance with existing buildings in the neighborhood which violates KCB ordinances.
Special Meeting Notes:

Mr. Decaro said the 100% drawings will be done in four weeks for delivery on August 15

Mr. Decaro's opinion of construction cost is $3,643,947
He noted that, if added to the design, the added cost items include
  • exterior lighting
  • hand dryers for restroom
  • the contract has no interior furnishings
  • landscaping is not included
  • There is no wheelchair access to the lobby in the tower
  • the generator has been upsized
  • wood paneling behind commission added in Marble hall
  • card access for lobby

Mr. Decaro's questions to the commission included
  • Bahama shutters for entrances. The Bahama shutters will offer shade and the glass will have tint
  • Stucco in FL is not required to have separate insurance
  • Should there be hose bibbs or sillcocks on the outside of the building
  • Landscaping definitely want to hide the generators and so on
  • Roof color was approved. Spec a 20-year roof and a Miami-Date NOA
  • Finish colors were approved and can be changed with the contractor
  • No hand dryers, no blinds

Commissioner Colonell said, "landscaping makes the project pop." CPH will do a landscaping plan.

Mayor Foster said, "my intent is for Marble Hall to keep running" through the construction process.

To meet ADA access needs, the design shows the Marble Hall ramp will be improved and the ADA entrance to the admin section will have a ramp.
Mayor Foster: "I'm not interested in raising the parking lot so there's a big hump out there." He also decided "we're good without the ramp" for the main entrance so the gym will not have a ramp and will not be ADA accessible after hours.

There is a very real concern that blocking ADA access to the fitness room exposes the city to lawsuits.

Other decisions:
About the elevator pit: "Water shouldn't be able to get in there" so they don't need a drain or pump
Mayor Foster decided there would be no pilings under the patio
Mayor Foster decided keep the windows in the bathrooms
Mayor Foster added instahot for showers and bathroom sinks
There was a question about the emergency ham radio setup in city hall. They will install a conduit for a lateral wall-mounted Starlink antenna for emergency communications but never addressed the need for access to install the ham antenna.
Commissioner Colonell asked, "could we get a detail of the columns out front."

The commission approved the 90% Drawings unanimously.

Here are the links to the drawings:
The 53MB "90%" engineering drawing file
The much smaller "90%" floorplan.
All the official "City Hall Renovation" documents

Vice-Mayor Position Available

July 10--After helping our little city return to Marble Hall, Vice Mayor Joey Raspe has resigned and moved from the area.

In the wake of Vice Mayor Raspe's sudden departure, KCB has invited all residents to apply for the vacant commission seat. The city has set a deadline of Wednesday, July 16, 2025, by 4 p.m. for applications. Commissioners must be KCB residents and registered voters here.

Applications are available at the KCB City Hall trailer and on the city website at https://keycolonybeach.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/City-Commission-Application-2.pdf. Some readers have reported difficulty with external links so we also have a local copy.

The remaining commissioners will meet with applicants and try to appoint a replacement commissioner at the July 17 regular commission meeting.

One resident has already offered his service. KCB's Utility Board chair and long time community member Fred Swanson has informed the mayor of his ability to serve.

Budget Workshops

July 13--The city commission FY25/26 Budget Workshop #1 was held July 10. Budget Workshop #2 will be held in City Hall Monday, July 14, at 9:30 a.m. It is unclear why the two budget workshops were scheduled so close together.

Commissioner Harding presented separate breakdowns of the FY26 General Fund budget as well as the Utility Board budget.
Find the the FY26 General Fund budget here.
Find the FY26 Utility Board budget here.
(Please note: our email system seems determined to change the "URL" of these uploads. You may copy and paste the links above into your browser or find the originals on the city website.)

A few observations from Budget Workshop #1 held July 10:
  • Commissioner Harding reminded everyone that they have to "Ask for the highest millage now" because they can always set the rate lower but never raise it once the max is publicized.
  • Commissioner Harding proposed a 2.82% millage increase which equates to an 8.92% average increase in property tax.
  • Commissioner Harding said the round number cost of the city hall work is $5,000,000. $1,900,000 of that remains in the "hardening" grant and the rest will come from KCB taxpayer-funded KCB reserves. It will use ALL of the infrastructure reserve which also underwrites storm costs.
  • Quotes from the meeting:
    Commissioner Harding: "As far as any storm monies it's not unusual for a city or town to get a line of credit for a storm."
    Commissioner Harding (about the expenses to run the rental program): "The person that does not rent is supplementing the people who do rent."
    Mayor Foster: "This is peanuts."
    Commissioner Colonell: "Are we headed to the bottom? Is this a $350K hit every year?"
  • In last year's budget, ad valorem tax revenue was planned to be $3,246,270. The FY 25-26 budget worksheet plans for tax revenue of $3,542,289, a 9.12% increase over the FY 24-25 budget. (It's a 17.85% increase over the FY 23-24 actual receipts.)
  • Total general fund expenses of $5,617,849 represent a 41.5% increase over the $3,969,240 budgeted for last year and a 46.8% increase over the FY 23-24 actual receipts.
  • The biggest drivers in the general expense increase are the Public Works department (261K or 39%), the estimated Fire/EMS contract (238K or 25%), and Parks and Rec (107K or 28%).
  • The General Fund recap again shows a $65,000 cash transfer from the Building Fund to the General Fund.
  • Page 42 shows the breakdown of $5,650,022 budgeted Infrastructure Fund expenses including the projected cost of the renovation and new construction of City Hall plus the basketball court, 7th/8th Street park improvements, Sadowski bridge maintenance, Sunset Park, fire safety and hydrant inspections, Fire/EMS capital infrastructure fund, 1st Street park improvements, and  phase II floodproofing of the Public Works Building.
Join the 7/14/25 meeting from a PC, Mac, iPad, iPhone or Android device:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84189347177?pwd=HTdgkdLq9oriw0VvmfzgjyHvaClWWZ.1Please click this URL to join.
Passcode: 403916

Storm recovery changes

July 3--In "Storm recovery changes signed" the Free Press reports that Senate bill 180, signed June 26, directly affects KCB. It requires local governments each year to set in advance at least one debris management site, to develop plans for businesses and homeowners about post-storm permitting processes, to establish mutual aid agreements, and to set plans for staffing after storms.

Meanwhile, the Marathon Weekly reports that the Keys will get up to 900 new building rights under the same bill. The Florida Keys have the go-ahead for up to 900 new building rights throughout the island chain. For decades, development in the Florida Keys Area of Critical State Concern has been regulated by the Rate of Growth Ordinance (ROGO), predicated on a maximum hurricane evacuation time of no more than 24 hours for permanent residents. Although KCB is not affected directly by ROGO allotments, population growth and evacuation time does impact this city. Some readers have reported difficulty with external links so we also have a local copy.

Two Invasive Termites Are Interbreeding in Florida

Smithsonian Magazine reports that two invasive termite species are chewing their way across South Florida and it turns out they're breeding with each other in the process. The resulting hybrid termite could travel farther to cause damage than either parent species. Researchers from the University of Florida have found that the two termites--Asian and Formosan termites, which are among the world's most destructive--have established hybrid colonies in the wild. Entomologists discovered the first known wild location of an established hybrid termite colony in Fort Lauderdale.

Experts at both Hammerhead Termite Control and A&B Exterminators say this year's termite swarm is particularly widespread. KCBers should be especially vigilant, looking for damaged wood, termite wings or bodies inside the house, "frass" (the brown sawdust-like droppings), and mud tubes on walls.

"Trust but Verify"

July 1--A recent public service announcement reminded us to "verify our CPA" with the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation before sending that accountant your financial information.

That's great advice but there's more.

The Florida Bar publishes attorney status and any disciplinary information. The Florida CFO has records of fire inspectors. The DBPR publishes license information for accountants, contractors, engineers, Realtors™, and many more, including our city officials. They have specific listings for building code administrators and inspectors and for certified public accountants. Each of these sites allows searches by name or other criteria.

The New Sargasso Sea

Wondering about the "seaweed" washing up on the Key Colony shoreline? Marathon Weekly reported on two pelagic sargassum species that have started inundating our coast. Some readers have reported difficulty with external links so we also have a local copy.

CLOSED

The KCB Farmer's Market is closed. San Pablo Farmer's Market on Fridays will re-open for the new season from November, 2025 through April 2026.

Most of the vendors will be working through summer at Boondocks MM27.5, every Saturday from 10am-2pm.

KCB Calendar

This is new information for the period of July 10-20, gathered from the official KCB city calendar.

The city commission FY25/26 Budget Workshop #1 has been "uncancelled." Apparently that was an error on the city calendar. It will be held in City Hall Thursday, July 10, at 9:30 a.m. It is unclear why the two budget workshops were scheduled so close together.

The City Commission meets in City Hall on Monday, July 14, at 9:30 a.m. for Budget Workshop #2. The Utility Board meets in City Hall on Tuesday, July 15, at 9:30 a.m. The P&Z meeting, scheduled for Wednesday, July 16, has been moved to Wednesday, July 23. Finally, the next city commission public hearing, approval of the 90% drawings for city hall, regular meeting, and appointment of a new commissioner will be held in City Hall on Thursday, July 17, at 9:30 a.m.

Mini Lobster Season is July 30-31.

And although the KCB Book Club still appears as a "recurring event" on the calendar, it is done for the season. Book Club will begin again on the second Thursday of each month, starting in October or November.

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