Dear Friends,
Amid our busy professional lives, personal commitments and the fast-paced nature of the work we do here in Palm Beach County, it can be easy to forget how much a few moments of movement can reset our perspective.
Whether it is a brisk stroll through one of our beautiful local parks or a quiet walk through the neighborhood as the sun begins to set, there is a unique joy in slowing down. For me, walking is not just about the physical benefits—though those are certainly a plus—it is about the mental clarity that comes with the exercise. It is time to disconnect, breathe in the fresh air, and appreciate the vibrant surroundings we are so lucky to call home.
Studies often highlight how walking boosts creativity and reduces stress, but I find the true value lies in the sense of balance it restores. Taking that time for yourself allows you to return to your tasks and your community with renewed energy and a clearer focus.
This June, I encourage each of you to find your own path. Whether you use that time to listen to a favorite podcast, catch up with a friend, or simply enjoy the silence, I hope you find the same refreshment in the journey that I do.
Stay safe, stay active, and enjoy the beautiful Florida summer.
Anne M. Gannon
Constitutional Tax Collector, Serving Palm Beach County
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With the start of hurricane season on June 1, preparation is not just a suggestion, it is a necessity. To give you a head start to be ready for any storm, we invite you to request your copy of our Hurricane Guide, a comprehensive resource designed to help you protect your home and loved ones.
The guide serves as a one-stop shop for essential storm intelligence. It provides:
- Emergency Contacts: A vital directory of phone numbers for everything from FPL power outages to animal care and control.
- Clear Definitions: An easy-to-understand breakdown of storm categories and the difference between a “Watch” and a “Warning”.
- Preparation Timelines: Detailed checklists for what to do prior to a storm.
- Supply Kits: Comprehensive list of food, water, first-aid, and pet supplies needed to sustain your household for at least five days.
Do not wait for the storm to start planning. This pocket-sized guide is an invaluable resource for navigating South Florida’s weather, helping you pinpoint your evacuation zone and build a robust family emergency plan. It is a must-read for anyone new to the area who has yet to experience a hurricane season.
Preparation is the best protection. Do not wait for a storm to appear on the horizon to start your planning. You can access our comprehensive hurricane resources today at pbctax.gov/resources/hurricane-guide-request. View the digital version online or request a convenient, pocket-sized copy to be mailed to you.
Our busy event season was in full swing on March 28 and 29, when we attended Palm Beach Pride in Lake Worth Beach. This vibrant two-day festival is always a great way for us to get out into the community to meet our neighbors.
We are grateful to everyone who stopped by our booth to chat with our staff. Each year dedicated and knowledgeable volunteers from my team join us at the Pride festival, to provide information and answer questions about our services.
This year’s rainy weather did not stop us from taking part in the Pride parade on Sunday. We always enjoy seeing the happy faces along the parade route in downtown Lake Worth Beach.
If you would like to learn more about our organization’s participation in community events, please visit our website at https://www.pbctax.gov/about-us/#community.
Did you know Palm Beach County leads the state in total agricultural sales? The 48th annual Black Gold Jubilee in Belle Glade is a vibrant celebration of this history and the famously fertile soil—often called “Black Gold”—that sustains our western communities.
Our team had a wonderful time visiting with our western Palm Beach clients at this year’s festival. We want to extend a huge thank you to our staff members who spent their weekend answering questions and sharing helpful information to Jubilee attendees. Even though festival season is officially closing, we are not going far—we look forward to seeing you at local HOA meetings and community expos throughout the year!
Title: Chief Communications Officer
Hometown: McKeesport, PA (suburb of Pittsburgh)
Favorite Activity: Cooking, Gardening, Trying New Restaurants
Favorite Food: Thanksgiving Dinner – the variety of all the dishes, it’s like a mini buffet!
Did you know our office has a dedicated team responsible for our award-winning website and the suite of publications you rely on? From the Tax Planner and Services Guide and the Report to Our Citizens to our Welcome to Palm Beach County guide, the Communications & New Media Group (CNMG) ensures our information is clear, accessible, and engaging.
Led by Chief Communications Officer Jeff Vortolomei, this talented group—comprising a Graphic Design Specialist, Communication Project Strategist, and Community Engagement Ambassadors—also coordinates our presence at community events throughout the year.
When asked what drives the department’s success, Jeff is quick to credit his team. “We are a creative, collaborative group that thrives on the challenge of producing high-quality work every single day,” Jeff says. “Their energy makes me excited to come to work.”
Jeff’s guiding mantra is simple: “Look at it through the lens of the client.” He explains, “While the CNMG team operates behind the scenes, the public is always at the forefront of our work. We strive for design that is thoughtful and information that is easy to find.” This philosophy drove the recent website redesign, which focused on improved navigation and easier access to information.
This client focus has resulted in the organization receiving numerous nationally and internationally recognized communications awards.
A Pittsburgh native and graduate of Penn State, Jeff left the cold winters behind to call sunny South Florida home for 41 years. The only ice he wants to encounter now is at the hockey arena cheering on the 2-time Stanley Cup Champions – the Florida Panthers!
Important Dates & Holidays
| June 1 | Hurricane Season Begins |
| June 1 | Tourist Development Tax Due |
| June 19 | Juneteenth – Tax Collector Locations Closed |
| June 21 | Father’s Day |
| June 30 | IPP: 1st Installment Payment Due to receieve discount |
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