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Navy Veteran to be awarded in Palm Bay

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This Thursday at the Palm Bay City Council meeting Deputy Mayor, Donny Felix, will present a flag to honor the service of Mr. Thomas Rebman.

Mr. Rebman served in the US Navy as an Engineering Officer from 1978 to 2001. After his military retirement he returned home to earn his Elementary Education bachelor’s degree and Reading master’s degree from Stetson University. In 2010, he began his teaching career.  

 He began in Brevard County as the MyOn Reading Director. He then began teaching in Palm Bay. During his 6-year tenure at Odyssey Charter School his students outperformed every other Palm Bay school in Civics.

Last year his students scored in the top 9% of the State of Florida.  Not only does Mr. Rebman academically challenge students, he makes them better citizens.

 He started his school’s Interact Club which is the high school equivalent of the local Rotary Club.  Each year he recruits students for the American Legion Oratory Contest, Boys and Girls State, the Rotary Youth Leadership Camp, and many other student enrichment programs.  

He also takes his students a couple of times a year to attend the Palm Bay City Council Meeting to teach them local civic engagement.  He has organized and completed numerous community service projects with his students. These included Road Clean-ups, Nursing Home Visits, and other projects serving the community.

This Thursday at the Palm Bay City Council meeting Councilman Donny Felix will present a flag to honor the service of Mr. Thomas Rebman.

Mr. Rebman served in the US Navy as an Engineering Officer from 1978 to 2001. After his military retirement he returned home to earn his Elementary Education bachelor’s degree and Reading master’s degree from Stetson University. In 2010, he began his teaching career.  

 He began in Brevard County as the MyOn Reading Director. He then began teaching in Palm Bay. During his 6-year tenure at Odyssey Charter School his students outperformed every other Palm Bay school in Civics.

Last year his students scored in the top 9% of the State of Florida.  Not only does Mr. Rebman academically challenge students, he makes them better citizens.

 He started his school’s Interact Club which is the high school equivalent of the local Rotary Club.  Each year he recruits students for the American Legion Oratory Contest, Boys and Girls State, the Rotary Youth Leadership Camp, and many other student enrichment programs.  

He also takes his students a couple of times a year to attend the Palm Bay City Council Meeting to teach them local civic engagement.  He has organized and completed numerous community service projects with his students. These included Road Clean-ups, Nursing Home Visits, and other projects serving the community.

SCHOLARSHIPS

Scholarship Opportunities

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The Brevard Federated Republican Women organization is currently offering scholarship opportunities to graduating seniors or young people In college or trade school up to age 21.

Here are the requirements:
1. High School Level Grades, Class Rank and High School Graduation Date.
2. SAT/ACT Test Results (Not needed for Trade School Applicants)
3. High School Awards, Honors and Activities.
4. If Dual Enrolled at Eastern Florida State College (EFSC), grades are to be submitted in a sealed envelope, degree seeking and expected graduation date.
5. List of Community Service and/or Employment.
6. Three (3) recommendation letters (From an educator, church/synagogue associate, an employer and/or a volunteer organization associate).
7. Copy of letter from the college to which applicant has been accepted.
8. Copy of voter registration card.
9. One page Essay signed and dated, to include college course interests or trade school interests.  Also, your future goals and plans to be a productive citizen on behalf of the Country.

The deadline to apply is 5pm, Friday, April 28, 2023.

Interested applicants can apply using the following website: http://www.brevardfederatedrepublicanwomen.org/

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Palm Bay Council Candidate Applications Double Expectations

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Palm Bay City Council has an abundance of applications to fill the vacant seat left by Peter Filiberto. The seat was declared vacant on February 17th of this year, and Councilman Johnson predicted a high rate of application with an estimate of possibly 15-20 applicants. At the application deadline, City Hall received 33 applications. City Council will follow the new City Ordinance 2023-10 to fill the position promptly and efficiently.

According to the ordinance, the vacancy should be announced for thirty days to receive applications from prospective candidates. The deadline was Wednesday, March 29th by 5 pm. City Council will have a preliminary review of the applications to rank the candidates at the April 6th Council meeting. Five candidates will be chosen from the pool and re-ranked for final selection at a Special meeting on April 13th. The application process includes certification, which requires candidates to pay a fee to complete a background check with the Florida Department of Law Enforcement and file a Statement of Financial Interest with the Florida Commission on Ethics.

Palm Bay Live has a list of candidates and key points from their applications:

Alfred Agarie

Length of Residency in Palm Bay: 37 years

Occupation: Director of Operations at Alfy’s Trucking Inc

Service to the City: Code of Enforcement, Community Development, and Parks and Recreation Boards

Community Involvement: West Indian Caribbean Culture and Sports, Greater Palm Bay Senior Center, City of Palm Bay Events, and Greater Palm Bay Chamber of Commerce

Why serve on City Council: “I would love to share my experience over 27 years as a successful owner and operator of several businesses in the city of Palm Bay. To assist our City Council, make good decisions to make this great city of Palm Bay a better place to live, work, and play by promoting growth, infrastructure, and development of employment.”

Jimmy Backus

Length of Residency in Palm Bay: 5 years

Occupation: Tech Carrier with the US Postal Service

Service to the City: Currently serving on the Disaster Relief Committee and the Community Advisory Board

Community Involvement: Kingdom Culture Church

Why serve on City Council: “My position is to serve in Palm Bay and to assist in areas so that Palm Bay develops and grows.”

Dawn Bittar

Length of Residency in Palm Bay: 14 years

Occupation: Partner Relations Coordinator at the Greater Palm Bay Chamber of Commerce

Service to the City: Citizen’s Budget Advisory and Community Development Board

Community Involvement: Rotary Club of Palm Bay

Why serve on City Council: “Serving the City in the role of councilman stems from my passion for our community and to be a representative of the positive changes impacting our local governance. As a prior business owner in the City of Palm Bay, a board member for the City’s Citizen’s Budget Advisory and Community Development Boards, as well as a 30-year professional in lending and real estate, provides the leadership experience which will contribute a meaningful and relevant manner.”

Denise Bowes

Length of Residency in Palm Bay: 20 years

Occupation: Child Protective Inv Supervisor for the Department of Children and Families

Service to the City: Youth Advisory Board and Parks and Recreation Board

Community Involvement: SCABBO Board Member and Road to Scholarships Owner

Why serve on City Council: “As a state employee working with the community and serving the not vulnerable has been a passion that has been purposeful and provided the motivation for me to strive to do more for my community.”

George Bozzetti

Length of Residency in Palm Bay: 6 years

Occupation: Retired

Service to the City: Not listed.

Community Involvement: Not listed.

Why serve on City Council: “I am concerned about the lack of a strong retail and employment opportunity base in the city. Palm Bay is a popular city for relocations, but for this to continue, we need to develop and attract businesses. My career has included over twenty years of management experience as well as a small business owner.”

William Capote

Length of Residency in Palm Bay: 14

Occupation: Consultant at Capote Consulting

Service to the City: Park and Recreation Board, Charter Review Board, previous mayor, and city councilmember

Community Involvement: Brevard County Planning and Zoning

Why serve on City Council: “As a former Mayor and Councilmember of the City of Palm Bay, I would bring 12 years of experience and understanding of the operation of the city. This would allow me to be able to jump right in and hit the ground running.”

Jason Carrasquillo

Length of Residency in Palm Bay: 17 years

Occupation: CEO at Harmony Mortgage Inc

Service to the City: Not listed

Community Involvement: “Over the years, I have volunteered my time in the community contributing to many community-beneficial events that support community satisfaction and promote love to all of our neighbors.”

Why serve on City Council: “The city needs someone with little to no debt or stress, someone who will serve the people with a heart for what’s best for all parties. The City needs a team player that is willing to respect those that may not have the same opinions. The City needs a business-minded person to help the city grow with ideas of prosperity. The City should choose me; I am available to commit my time and energy to this task until the seat is filled by the people.”

John Curry Jr

Length of Residency in Palm Bay: 3 years

Occupation: Manufacturing Engineer at Northrop Grumman

Service to the City: Not listed

Community Involvement: not listed

Why serve on City Council: “I plan to live in Palm Bay for a very long time. I have a passion for service. I will work strategically to uncover and to discover a common vision to move Palm Bay forward. I will focus on specific, measurable, and achievable results and execute the mayor’s strategic plan. I will encourage growth in Palm Bay and financial sustainability.”

Johnathan Ellis

Length of Residency in Palm Bay: 22 years

Occupation: Campaign Manager at Joanne Terry for Congress

Service to the City: Not listed

Community Involvement: Organizer for Brevard Dems, Regular at Palm Bay City Council Meetings, Regular at Palm Bay Democratic Women’s club, Regular at Brevard School Board Meetings, and regular at Brevard Young Dems Meetings

Why serve on City Council: “I have lived in Palm Bay all my life, and I know what our community needs to grow. Having experienced the issues that affect our residents, including flooding, lack of public transportation, and unsustainable development, I feel I can bring a new perspective to the council based on my years as part of Future Problem Solving, Tech Student Association, and the Burnett Honors College at UCF. I think it is important for younger people to have a voice in our community.”

Paul Galbreath

Length of Residency in Palm Bay: 6 years

Occupation: Technology Network Support at Brevard Public Schools

Service to the City: Not listed

Community Involvement: Not listed

Why serve on City Council: “We are in an exciting time for Palm Bay, and I would like to be part of the team that will help usher in a new era for the city. My goal is to be a voice for the citizens of Palm Bay to help ensure all citizens are heard while expanding upon the transparency of government business that has continued to grow under the current city council. Other goals would include improving city services, proactive city planning, and consistent communication with the public.”

Thomas Gaume

Length of Residency in Palm Bay: 30 years

Occupation: Retired

Service to the City: Infrastructure board, Recreation advisory board, TPO Citizens advisory board, and Economic Development Board

Community Involvement: Special Olympics of Central Florida, American Legion Post 117, VFW.

*Why serve on City Council: “… My long-term residency in Palm Bay, spanning five generations, has given me a unique perspective, and understanding of the city’s history, strengths, and challenges. I am deeply committed to serving and giving back to my fellow citizens. If selected for the vacant city council seat, I would prioritize transparency, accountability, and open communication with residents. I pledge to work tirelessly to ensure that residents are informed and engaged in the decision-making process and that their voices are heard….”

Clay Gool

Length of Residency in Palm Bay: 5 years

Occupation: Chief of Staff at L3Harris Technologies

Service to the City: Not listed

Community Involvement: Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association, Supporting Emergency Responders and Veterans Engagement, L3Harris Employee Resource Group

Why serve on City Council: “I want to serve on the city council because I am invested in this beautiful city. I own a house here, and my precious family does their daily activities here. I want to ensure I am involved and a positive contributing member of this community. I feel that by being on the city council, I can do this and help be a reason why Palm Bay is the GREATEST CITY ON THE FACE OF THE EARTH!”

Richard Hammer Jr

Length of Residency in Palm Bay: 43 years

Occupation: Outside Sales at Cumberland International Trucks

Service to the City: Not listed

Community Involvement: West Melbourne Football, Bayside Football, Palm Bay Community Action Group, volunteer for a number of charities.

Why serve on City Council: “As an employee of the City for 13+ years, my father 30+, my grandmother 30+, I have a deep knowledge of how the city operates. I believe someone with my knowledge of the logistics and operating procedures would bring a great decision-making factor to the table. I also believe my family being one of the founders, will bring reassurance of trust back to the community that we so gravely need. I have a reputation for being honest and fighting for what’s right, and I think it’s a great thing to have on our Council.”

Michael Harrison

Length of Residency in Palm Bay: 7 years

Occupation: Not listed

Service to the City: Not listed

Community Involvement: Masonic Lodge and Order of the Eastern Star

Why serve on City Council: “To serve my City and the Citizens. Having 38 years in law enforcement related to Immigration, Drug enforcement, and public safety, I have the ability to recognize community issues in a different way. Since living here for the past seven years, I feel that my knowledge would be an asset to the Council.”

Asheley Hepburn

Length of Residency in Palm Bay: 16 years

Occupation: Finance Director for the City of Lauderdale Lakes

Service to the City: Budget Advisory Board

Community Involvement: Powell Neighborhood Watch Board and Florida Avenue Church of Christ

Why serve on City Council: “I see a need for a fiscally conservative member on the City Council that understands intimately the fiscal impact that council policy has on the City of Palm Bay. I have over 30 years of experience in municipal finances. I have worked in an executive capacity for County and City governments throughout Florida and Wisconsin. It would be an honor to use the unique skill set I have to serve the citizens of Palm Bay, the City I reside in.”

Asheley Hepburn

Length of Residency in Palm Bay: 16 years

Occupation: Finance Director for the City of Lauderdale Lakes

Service to the City: Budget Advisory Board

Community Involvement: Powell Neighborhood Watch Board and Florida Avenue Church of Christ

Why serve on City Council: “I see a need for a fiscally conservative member on the City Council that understands intimately the fiscal impact that council policy has on the City of Palm Bay. I have over 30 years of experience in municipal finances. I have worked in an executive capacity for County and City governments throughout Florida and Wisconsin. It would be an honor to use the unique skill set I have to serve the citizens of Palm Bay, the City I reside in.”

Sylvester Julien

Length of Residency in Palm Bay: 15 years

Occupation: Retired

Service to the City: Utility Commission

Community Involvement: Not listed

Why serve on City Council: “I have over 35 years of legislative experience, from working in the Virgin Islands Legislature to the U.S. House of Representatives. I have been a Deputy to the Mayor of the City of Minneola for over two years. I live in Palm Bay; I can devote my time, effort, energy, experience, knowledge, and skills to better improve the way of life for the community as a whole. I am committed, dedicated, sincere, honest, and trustworthy.”

Kay Maragh

Length of Residency in Palm Bay: 11 years

Occupation: Real Estate Agent at BHHS Results Realty

Service to the City: Planning and Zoning, Community Development Advisory Board, and Sustainability Board

Community Involvement: Brevard Caribbean America Sports and Cultural Association and Space Coast Black Chamber of Commerce

Why serve on City Council: “I have a passion for public service. I am committed to making a positive impact on our city, contributing to its growth and development by bringing fresh perspectives and ideas that serve the best interest of our city and its residents. I am ready to be a voice for our community, especially for our youth, our seniors, and small business owners. I want to ensure that our public services are efficient and effective. Therefore, I will prioritize policies that protect our environment, promote economic development, improve infrastructure, and enhance public safety making our city a wonderful place to thrive, work and play.”

Madsen Mileon

Length of Residency in Palm Bay: 19 years

Occupation: Manager at Aubrema Trucking LLC

Service to the City: Not listed

Community Involvement: Not listed

Why serve on City Council: “The reason I want to serve on the city council is because I have a desire to serve the residents of the city of Palm Bay. I have a vision of greater growth for the city. As a business owner in the construction, Real estate, Trucking, transportation, and land clearing sector, I have an avid interest in the area infrastructure as well as affordable senior/disabled housing development. Also, as a husband and a father, my goal is to bring the guidance of unity and togetherness to my local community.”

Alan Miles

Length of Residency in Palm Bay: 35 years

Occupation: Retired Optometrist

Service to the City: Not listed

Community Involvement: Oak View Estates Homeowners Association, Senior Center, Space Coast Mustang Association

Why serve on City Council: “To help make the city a better, more vibrant place to live and work. As a recent retiree, I want to utilize my past 35 years living in Palm Bay (Ponz Malabar) from the G.D.C. era to the present and be able to guide and plan for the future.”

Phil Moore

Length of Residency in Palm Bay: 11 years

Occupation: Medical Device Instructor at Philips

Service to the City: RAB, Utilities, Charter Review Commission

Community Involvement: Sierra Club, Audubon Society, ACLU, NAACP, Mom’s Demand Action

* Why serve on City Council: “… I understand that at the core of a well-functioning city government is the employees, staff, and workers. I will defend our city from attacks and accusations from other elected officials and stand up for what is in the best interest of the city of Palm Bay.  If chosen, I understand my fiduciary responsibility is to the city, to the rights of the taxpayers, and to the Constitution of the United States. I will conduct myself with those interests in mind in my decision making….”

Terry Muller

Length of Residency in Palm Bay: 10 years

Occupation: Owner of Team Green Energy Solutions Inc

Service to the City: Not listed

Community Involvement: Not listed

Why serve on City Council: “To help our community be a better and stronger City. I love Palm Bay and its people. If I can be used to bring more business to help contribute in a positive way to its growth and ideas that will help us in the future, count me in.”

Randall Olszewski

Length of Residency in Palm Bay: 10 years

Occupation: Experience Owner at Ford Motor Company

Service to the City: Sustainability Advisory Board and Charter Review Commission

Community Involvement: Not listed

Why serve on City Council: “Because I love the city of Palm Bay. I feel it is my responsibility to share my abilities and experiences with my community. A strong sense of community around me through my youth allowed me to reach the places in life I have. I wish to pay it forward to our youth by ensuring that our city is a prosperous place to grow into productive, thriving participants in society. I am an advocate for the people, and I would greatly appreciate the opportunity to influence the future state of Palm Bay.”

Aaron Parr

Length of Residency in Palm Bay: 11 years

Occupation: Teacher at Brevard Public Schools

Service to the City: Citizen’s Advisory Board and Bayfront Community Redevelopment Agency

Community Involvement: Rotary Club of Palm Bay

Why serve on City Council: “to serve the community of Palm Bay. I ran for this specific seat in 2018 and I am still here, ready to serve. The year has changed, but my desire to live and work and serve is still right here in Palm Bay.”

Robert Rogulski

Length of Residency in Palm Bay: 29 years

Occupation: Development Manager at Wright Flood

Service to the City: Not listed

Community Involvement: Community Coach at Bayside High, Our Lady of Grace, and Palm Bay Youth Soccer

Why serve on City Council: “As a 30-year resident who raised three children in this city, it seems imperative that I get involved to leave a city that the next generation will want to call home. For many years, I have had the city council on my to-do list, and now that my children have grown, this item has made it to the top of the list. This city has many opportunities for improvements, and I have the desire to be a part of instigating those improvements.”

Eileen Sepp

Length of Residency in Palm Bay: 32 years

Occupation: Retired

Service to the City: Not listed

Community Involvement: Apollo XI Parliamentarian Unit of the National Association of Parliamentarians

Why serve on City Council: “I believe that I would bring a wealth of experience to the City Council. I grew up in the construction business and drew up contracts and estimates as well as many approved blueprints. I have held positions as CIO, CFO, and Director of Media/Technology. I have worked for the Post Office, Merrill-Lynch, GE Business Development, PGA, AllMed, CureMD, GRI, Sherry-Netherland hotel, and as a realtor. I left each better than when I found it by closing process gaps. I love Palm Bay and want to help make it better.”

Mark Louis Stephens

Length of Residency in Palm Bay: 40 years

Occupation: Retired

Service to the City: Not listed

Community Involvement: Not listed

Why serve on City Council: “I want to serve the people of Palm Bay and make it a better place for business and recreational activities. Palm Bay is a great place to live, and I would like to be a part of making it better.”

Marvin Tador

Length of Residency in Palm Bay: 3 years

Occupation: Founder at Relentless Labs Inc

Service to the City: Not listed

Community Involvement: Not listed

Why serve on City Council: “A desire to live a purpose-driven life; serve my community; and engage in fulfilling work. As Palm Bay is my hometown, I believe that I may have some input(s) that may be relevant to the city council. It would be an honor to serve on the City.”

Paul Drew Warren

Length of Residency in Palm Bay: 6 years

Occupation: Chief Executive Officer at Community of Hope

Service to the City: City Education Advisory Board

Community Involvement: Continuum of Care Board, Space Coast League of Cities Associate Member, Brevard Homeless Coalition Member, Palm Bay Rotary Member and Officer, North Brevard Charities Coalition Officer, and Member of Palm Bay Chamber of Commerce Why serve on City Council: “I am a practical problem solver. While I am a registered republican, I hold some conservative views and am more liberal in other areas. In every professional and personal role I have held, I have established collaboration and brought people together. I think I can help do that for Palm Bay. I know many involved in Brevard political issues in Palm Bay and beyond and can use insights from these relationships to benefit the people of Palm Bay. I think I can make a difference.

Nathan White

Length of Residency in Palm Bay: 31 years

Occupation: Business Development Lead at Wild Manta, LLC

Service to the City: Citizens Budget Advisory Board

Community Involvement: Greater Palm Bay Chamber of Commerce and American Conservation Coalition, Space Coast Chapter

Why serve on City Council: “I have lived in Palm Bay my entire life, and my wife and I plan to stay and raise our family here. We are deeply invested in the future of our community and believe we have a responsibility to ensure its future is a bright one. Only four months ago, 17,460 Palm Bay residents said through their ballot that they trusted me to represent them on City Council. I want to serve on City Council because I want to honor their voice. I want to serve them, as well as every family and individual in Palm Bay.”

Amber Yantz

Length of Residency in Palm Bay: 7 years

Occupation: Realtor at All Real Estate Inc (Self Employed)

Service to the City: Not listed

Community Involvement: Space Coast Realtors Association, Space Coast LGBTQ Organizations

Why serve on City Council: “As a mother to five children, I understand the importance of a budget. I want our community to grow and develop in the most effective ways as well as bring new perspectives to the board. I think it’s also important that we get a woman on the city council, and I can help create a better, more diverse board.”

Anthony Yantz

Length of Residency in Palm Bay: 7 years

Occupation: Realtor at All Real Estate Inc (Self Employed)

Service to the City: Not listed

Community Involvement: Space Coast Realtors Association, Space Coast LGBTQ Organizations

Why serve on City Council: “The city of Palm Bay needs leadership and direction. I am that leader. My reasoning skills, along with my passion to further diversity, equity, and inclusion of our city, will create a strong Palm Bay. I’ve been increasingly more dissatisfied with the attacks our legislators launch to our community without anger from our mayor. I want to give the power back to the people of Palm Bay.”

Janice Zynko

Length of Residency in Palm Bay: 4 years

Occupation: Retired Analyst/Manager

Service to the City: Not listed

Community Involvement: FIT Lifelong Scholar, Brevard Zoo, Oyster Reef Restoration, Marine Resources Council, Indian Harbour Beach Garden Club, Zan Assisted Living, Greater Palm Bay Senior Ctr, and UF/IFAS continuing education County Extension Service

Why serve on City Council: “As a retired civil servant with 36+ years of experience, I bring a fresh perspective to serve the city. Serving in a government agency with a diverse workforce built my character and taught me to empathize with people of differing cultures. We have a unique opportunity to unite the city and shake off a tainted reputation due to the actions of a few individuals. I will be proud to assist the city moving forward with the important work entailed in implementing Vision 2040 for us to live, work, and play.”

*Candidate provided supplemental materials to extensively define their response. The supplemental materials exceeded this article’s editorial format, and Palm Bay Live included an abbreviated response.

Among the candidate applicants for the vacant seat are three candidates who ran against Filiberto in the March 2022 special election to replace Jeff Bailey, who resigned to move out of state. Filiberto won the March 2022 special election with 51.2% of the votes. Phil Moore received 37.1%, Agarie received 7.4%, and Backus received 4.4%.

Shortly after Filiberto’s arrest and resignation, Councilman Randy Foster was rushed to the hospital after suffering a medical event. He has been in the ICU after falling into a coma but reports from his family and city staff state that Councilman Foster is improving. Currently, City Council is down to three councilmen. With teachers, realtors, retirees, and business owners in the application pool, the City of Palm Bay has outstanding citizens ready to serve the community.

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Filiberto Resigns Palm Bay City Council

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While preparing this story of last nights City Council meeting we have learned that  Peter Filiberto has resign his seat. 

Written by Kevin Vaccianna

Palm Bay City met on Thursday, February 16, 2023. The meeting opened with an invocation from Pastor Paul Fournier at Lifepoint Church to pray for the council’s wisdom and lift “a person caught in a compromising situation,” followed by a flag ceremony from local Boy Scout Troup 525.

A little over fifteen minutes into the meeting, Mayor Medina turned the meeting to Councilman Johnson, who inquired with the City Attorney for directives on suspending a councilman. Although Peter Filiberto’s name was rarely mentioned, the question of suspension directly advised options for a person who was charged but not yet adjudicated of a felony. Palm Bay Police Department arrested Councilman Peter Filiberto on Saturday, February 11, 2023. Councilman Peter Filiberto was absent from this meeting.

The City Attorney advised the council that the option at this time is to request suspension with a letter to Governor DeSantis’ office to remove Filiberto from office. Following the suspension discussion, Councilman Johnson asked for clarification on removing a council member for absenteeism. The city statutes direct the removal of a council member for absenteeism when the council member misses four consecutive meetings.

Council opened the meeting to public comments that ranged from compassion to one affected by addiction to outrage demanding background checks and testing for all members of the City Council and City staff. Except for a couple of speakers, most felt Filiberto should be immediately removed. The meeting turned back to the discussion with City Council regarding the issue.

Representative Fine’s support of Filiberto as well as Fine’s silence in the scandal, were noted in public comments and council discussions. Councilman Kenny Johnson pointedly discussed Fine’s actions throughout the events:

“He didn’t condemn them; he didn’t call for the removal; he didn’t call for investigation; he didn’t call the community to call their cell phones; he didn’t send out robotexts; he didn’t do no news press conferences, no mailers, no robocalls, no nothing. Since I’ve been elected, I’ve been the victim, and I’ve had to deal with all of this. I haven’t been the subject of an investigation, nor have I been arrested while an elected official. I’m not going to sit up here and say I’m perfect. I’m not. But one thing’s for sure, I haven’t been breaking the law while I’ve been an elected official.

And I don’t want to just make it about me, because these other men next to me, Mayor, Deputy Mayor Felix, Councilman Foster – they haven’t either. But steadily we hear the terms – thugs, thugs in bowtie, stains on the community, corrupt, pedophile, violent, sexual predators, demons, boy, and these other dog whistling terms that are for something else that somebody wants to say. And since these previous individuals have been replaced, he’s been working relentlessly … doing whatever he can to get people in place that he wants in place to do his bidding. And now we’re back to square one with my councilman Filiberto supporting and endorsed by Representative Randy Fine, and it turns out that he’s promoted and supports and has a consistent, chronic habit of breaking the laws he’s sworn to uphold. Where’s the press conference, Mr. Fine? Where’s the Facebook posts? Where’s the hashtag? Where’s the mailers? Where’s the text messages? Where’s the letter to Phil Archer demanding his investigation? Just like the same councilman tonight, he’s absent.

What’s the biggest difference between us and councilman Filiberto not having a criminal record? If it’s not obvious, it’s in black and white.” 

He concluded his speech by stating that he “would not allow this sociopathic, narcissist, admitted bully, extortionist and yes, racist coward to continue to victimize our city and any of us any longer.” Upon concluding his speech, Johnson motioned to give the City Attorney direction to draft a letter to the Office of the Governor requesting the governor suspend Councilman Filiberto.

Councilman Johnson seconded the motion to open the discussion and spoke that public officials should be held to a higher standard. At times speaking directly to the cameras and addressing the absent Filiberto directly, “You are held to a higher standard, Peter. You took an oath of office, Peter to uphold the constitution of the United States and Florida.” Johnson further explained expectations of serving on the Council are a higher standard than being proven guilty in a court of law and further that Filiberto should have appeared in Council Chambers to apologize directly to constituents in the meeting. Johnson closed by looking into the camera again to address Filiberto, “Peter, please. Do the right thing; resign so that we can get this past us. I don’t want to have to send this letter to the Governor. We don’t have a resignation; it leaves us no choice but to do that.” Overall, City Council felt the best result for Palm Bay would be for Councilman Filiberto to resign but unanimously approved Johnson’s motion to write the request for the suspension to the Governor. 

Reports show that Filiberto resigned on February 17 with a simple letter on Palm Bay letterhead, “I hereby resign as a Councilmember for the city of Palm Bay effective immediately.” Palm Bay City Council will meet again on Thursday, March 2nd at 6 p.m. to discuss next steps in replacing Councilman Filiberto.

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Palm Bay Councilman Pete Filiberto arrested with 10.6 grams of Cocaine, Extensive traffic infarctions since 2006

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By Kevin Vaccianna

Update: Mayor Rob Medina request the resignation of Councilman Pete Filiberto:

As Mayor of the City of Palm Bay, I want to share with the members of our community that I encourage Councilman Peter Filiberto to voluntarily resign.
Per Florida Statutes, City Council does not have authority to remove a fellow councilman. At our Regular Council Meeting this Thursday, Council will be discussing sending a letter to the Governor regarding suspension pursuant to Florida Statutes 112.51.
Today the State Attorney’s Office made a filing decision in this case. I want to commend our Palm Bay Police Department for their diligence and professionalism in addressing this matter.
As public officials serving our City, it is incumbent upon us to reflect on how our actions affect those we serve. This situation has cast a shadow over the good work that our City Council and leadership team are accomplishing. It has become a distraction as we conduct our City business. As a City, we are striving every day to serve our citizens in a transparent and accountable manner, and I feel strongly that resignation would be in the best interest of our community.
Please know that I have not come to this decision lightly, and my prayers continue to go out to Pete and his family. I truly hope that he will get the help that he needs to overcome his personal challenges.
Restoring and maintaining the public trust is critically important for our City. Part of restoring the public trust is doing the right thing. In this situation, I believe that voluntary resignation would be the right thing for Pete to do.

Disclaimer: Councilman Pete Filiberto is innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

In a probable cause affidavit issued by the Palm Bay City Police Department, Palm Bay City Councilman Peter J Filiberto was arrested on Saturday, February 11, 2023. The inciting incident occurred on Sea Grape Street at 9:05 p.m. when the Palm Bay Police Department attempted to pull Filiberto over for a high rate of speed while driving a motorcycle.

Filiberto was taken into custody for reckless driving when he lost control and fell over on the motorcycle. The affidavit briefly lists what can be described as evasive movements, including accelerated speed in a 25-mile-per-hour zone, running a stop sign, and attempting a U-turn when Filiberto acknowledged the officer’s presence. When Filiberto declined to take a Standardized Field Sobriety Test, he was further charged on suspicion of Driving Under the Influence.

Furthermore, a search of Filiberto’s license shows that his license was suspended in September of 2022 due to failure to pay an outstanding judgment for $134. The search of Filiberto’s history also showed a failure to submit to a previous breath/urine/blood test in 2008 and that he did not have an endorsement on his license to permit him to operate a motorcycle. During a search of Filiberto at booking in the Palm Bay Police Department, a white powdery substance was found in Filiberto’s shoe, and additional white rocks were found in his socks. The total weight of the substances is 10.6 grams, and both tested positive for cocaine.

Total charges listed on the affidavit for Filiberto include reckless driving, driving under the influence, no motorcycle endorsement, refusal to submit (1 Prior), driving with a suspended license (with knowledge), and possession of a controlled substance (10.6 g cocaine). Filiberto was taken to Palm Bay Community Hospital for medical clearance before booking and turned over to the Brevard County Sherriff’s office for secured detention.

Who is Councilman Peter Filiberto?

The Palm Bay City website has a biography summarizing Filiberto as “born and raised in Palm Bay” and a graduate of Bayside High School. He studied political science at Florida International University and is currently a federal contractor working with cybersecurity support and infrastructure for the United States Department of Veterans Affairs.

Watch our 2020 interview with  Councilman Pete Filiberto

Filiberto’s biography includes a multitude of services to the community, including serving as a dispatcher for the Surfside Police Department, public liaison for the tourist development department, serving on boards including Brevard County’s Planning & Zoning, Brevard County’s Local Planning Agency, and Palm Bay’s Bayfront Community Redevelopment Agency.

Filiberto’s history with Brevard County Courts goes back to sixteen instances since he turned 16 in 2006. Most are minor traffic citations, including not wearing a seatbelt, speeding, and a parking violation with the Honda Motorcycle in June 2020. However, some charges were more severe, including citations for street racing, attaching tags not assigned to vehicles, and driving with a suspended license. For the most part, the citations were reduced to lesser charges such as speeding with penalties including community service or fines, but court records also show that Filiberto has often failed to pay fines, including his 2021 judgment for $134; the failure to pay resulted in a suspended license. Brevard County court records also show that this is the third DUI arrest for Filiberto, dating back to February of 2008, shortly after he turned 20 years old. The records show he received nine months of probation, completed DUI school, served fifty hours of community service, and paid over $750 in fines for the offense. His second arrest for DUI resulted from a boating incident in May 2019, where the minutes show the case was disposed and the court waived the $500 civil penalty.

In 2020, Filiberto made his first run at Palm Bay City Council Seat 2. He was defeated by Donny Felix, who now serves as Deputy Mayor. In a May 2022 special election, Filiberto was placed in seat 5 on City Council, and in the scheduled election of November 2022, Filiberto won unchallenged as the incumbent for seat 5. Palm Bay City council is composed of a total of five city council seats.

What’s next for Palm Bay City Council?

Palm Bay Live reminds readers that all suspects are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. As Filiberto faces many charges, he will be allowed to continue serving his four-year term in the community as a Palm Bay City Councilman.

Palm Bay City policy addresses vacancies for City Council in Section 3.06 of City Statutes. Section 3.062 specifically addresses forfeiture from office as such:

“If, during the term of office, the state commission on ethics finds that a councilmember has violated any provision of this charter or is found guilty by a judge or jury or pleads guilty or nolo contendere to any felony or a crime involving moral turpitude whether or not adjudication is withheld, such councilmember shall be deemed to have forfeited his office. Forfeiture of such office shall be affirmed and ratified by a resolution duly adopted by the other members of the city council.”

Filiberto is set to serve on the Palm Bay city council until 2026. If Filiberto is removed from office a special election to find a replacement would be necessary. The next Palm Bay City Council meeting is scheduled for Thursday, February 16, 2023, at 6 p.m. The agenda packet is linked here.

Disclaimer: Councilman Pete Filiberto is innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

PALMBAYPD

Palm Bay Police Activity

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Palm Bay Police-

Update 11:05pm | There is no longer a threat to the public. The scene is secure and the victim is in stable condition at a local hospital. We appreciate the community’s patience and assistance.
 
 
There is a large police presence in the area of Malabar Rd and Eldron Blvd in response to a shooting investigation. We’re asking citizens to be on the look out for a white male, 40 years old, with a full beard, dark shirt and jeans. He may be on foot and should be considered armed and dangerous. If you see this male do not approach him, please call 911.
PALMBAYPD

2 teenagers found dead at the Compound in Palm Bay

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Palm Bay-

Official Police news release:

On December 25, 2022, at approximately 2030 hrs., officers responded to the area known as “the Compound” in the southwest section of Palm Bay after a citizen called in reference to a report of a deceased body found in the wood line.  On arrival, it was determined the deceased suffered from at least one gunshot wound.  A second deceased body was located suffering from gunshot wounds as well.  Both victims were juveniles, ages 14 and 16 years old.  The families have requested their names and information not be released under Marsy’s Law. 

 

All available resources are being dedicated to finding the motives and person(s) responsible for this crime. 

 

This is an ongoing and active investigation.  Anyone with information is urged to call the Palm Bay Police Department at 321-952-3456, or contact Crimeline at 1-800-423-TIPS. 

BPS Board Meets 12-8-22 Graphic

Brevard Public School Board Meets for Special Session to Discuss Discipline

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By Kevin Vaccianna

Palm Bay Live

Brevard Public School Board met on December 8 for a special session after a press conference on November 28th led by Sherriff Wayne Ivey announced “a brand new day” for discipline at the schools. The press conference presented a united front from School Board Chair Matt Susin, Business Representative from the Local 1010 IUPAT, Delores Varney, and Brevard County State Attorney Phil Archer to present a new priority of addressing discipline issues within the schools and busses at local schools. The press conference was held at the local jail and served as a point of concern for many parents and local leaders. The board meeting had dozens from the community in attendance. The passionate discussion turned heated on occasion as the board filled over seven hours discussing discipline issues with the community.

The meeting opened with a welcome and presentation of the agenda from Board Chair Matt Susin. Although several items were listed for discussion on the agenda, the board voted to end the meeting at 4 pm, and discipline issues were the only business discussed. Other issues will be presented at the December 13th board meeting and work session. The order of business for the discipline issue was broken down into the following points: Why, Public Comment, Before the Incident, During the Incident, After the Incident, and Community Involvement. Matt Susin opened the discussion with a panel of community members gathered around the table to discuss their concerns and reasons “why” they felt the meeting and subsequent need for addressing discipline issues had reached a critical point at Brevard Schools.

Members of the community invited to speak included a wide variety of staff and union members to speak on behalf of teachers, bus drivers, IA’s, and parents at Brevard Public Schools, Sherriff Wayne Ivey, and representatives from the NAACP.

Feedback from the President of the Brevard Federation of Teachers, Anthony Colucci showed a stark list of incidents reported citing discipline infractions ranging from classroom elopement to distracting cell phone use and continuing to assault of staff, sex acts in the classroom, and drug use as well as more significant threats to the schoolwide violence. Although most teachers and staff reported that the issues came from a small number of offenders, the growing number of violence issues is a lingering and exhausting concern. Tracie Arzola, Co-Chair of Local 1010 and a parent, shared her concern, “We spent millions on security; we got SROs on site. We spent millions to keep danger out; all we’re doing is caging it in.”

Board member, Jennifer Jenkins, denounced the video press conference as inappropriate, unauthorized, and not previously discussed by the board and challenged the agenda of lacking specificity for a plan of action on policies. Katye Campbell confirmed her frustration of not understanding the proposed methods of policy restructuring in advance of the meeting. The meeting was opened for public speaking at approximately the three-hour mark.

During public discussion, parents, guardians, and community members each received three minutes at the podium to voice their concerns with the board. The level of frustration varied from thanking the board for their service and commitment to the community to asking Chair Matt Susin to “please resign.” Some highlights and targeted issues of those speaking included addressing staffing issues such as training and adding additional staff, concern about SROs and threatening demeanor of the sheriff’s department and police in schools (including new uniforms that include larger rifles carried on the chest of SRO officers daily in school), traumatizing children with a police presence in the school, corporal punishment, distrust of Brevard policing and the school board, prioritizing mental health over policing discipline, and many felt the actions of the press conference leaders were embarrassing to the Brevard community overall and one accusing Chair Matt Susin of “pandering to the Sherriff.”

After public comments, the board discussed actions and steps the district could implement before an incident that would support staff and administrators. Staff, administrators, union leaders, and board members agreed that additional training opportunities would advance discipline policies for the district.

With twenty-two minutes left in the allotted time for the meeting, Matt Susin regrouped to articulate directives for Deputy Superintendent Dr. Beth Thedy. On the list of items to “start immediately”:

  • “Culture of change” to empower staff and administrators to open discussions and be able to discuss and push back on referrals.
  • Form a discipline committee of diverse citizens in the community, including the Sheriff’s Department, members of leadership and unions at the school, and the NAACP.
  • Work towards building three additional professional development days into the school calendars and teaching contracts. (Note: with the 23-24 calendar year set for approval on December 13. This initiative is expected to be implemented in school year 24-25.)
  • Define assault and battery in a socially appropriate way so that teachers and staff will understand that their administration and the district support them.
  • Strictly enforce the current cell phone policies.
  • Further communicate that buses are equal to the school and that all policies apply equally.
  • Evaluate and clean up the referral process.

The close of the meeting brought forth additional heated disagreement between board member Jennifer Jenkins and Chair Matt Susin. Still, the meeting was appreciated by school staff and the community as a starting point for further discussion. Although little progress was made and the general feeling of the room was frustrated, the hope that future discussions would lead to positive changes was evident. Several were thankful to be invited to the discussion, and one staffer seemed to share a common thread of respect for the process ahead, “I’m excited that we are all in this room together right now. Whatever it is that brought us together, I hope we can move past that because what we have in common, right now, is a love for students, is a love for school, and a need to make things better.”

The next meeting of the Brevard Public Schools Board of Directors is December 13th. An agenda is available on the school website. Here is a link to the Palm Bay Live recording of the Special Session of the board.

Debate new FB (1)

Recapping Palm Bay City Council Seat 4 Debate

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By Kevin Vaccianna

Voters in the Palm Bay area were offered a stark choice between the candidates running for the fourth City Council position during what was meant to be a debate on the issues on Wednesday: deputy mayor Kenny Johnson and an empty seat.

What was meant to be a debate between Mr. Johnson and his opponent Nathan White on Wednesday evening, October 26, turned into more of a discussion as Mr. White opted at the last minute not to attend, after being interviewed on Tuesday.

The moderators adapted to the situation and stuck to the pre-written questions they had prepared for Mr. Johnson, while also allowing audience participation as the evening went on.

Mr. White opted instead to answer questions during a Facebook Live presentation that occurred at 6 pm on Thursday evening. Mr. White’s platform revolves around ending what he sees as government waste and restoring trust between the citizenry and the council itself, following what he characterized as some shady dealings between the government and contractors over the previous four years. He mentioned providing additional funding for first responders and ensuring that Palm Bay’s infrastructure could handle the city’s growth, namely the roads.

Offering clarification on his last-minute decision to forgo the debate, Mr. White pointed to what he felt was a conflict of interest, in that he’d heard David Jones, one of the moderators, and the deputy mayor were friends, and that there was a potential for an “ambush” of sorts.

During Mr. Johnson’s pre-debate interview and at the quasi-debate itself, the deputy mayor pointed to what he considers the accomplishments he and the council have achieved in the previous four years. Updating the badly outdated Palm Bay comprehensive plan, providing additional material support for police and firefighters, and ensuring current and future development don’t negatively impact families and residents in their neighborhoods were among the successes Mr. Johnson listed

Mr. Johnson also touted his ability to communicate across all levers of the local government apparatus, mentioning time and again the budget’s aim to maintain current employees and attract new talent to the ranks, while also stating he believed the package could go further to financially incentivize the city’s workforce. He also touted the “innovative ideas” being discussed on the development front, particularly with areas of the waterfront due for renovations.

In many instances, the candidates spoke of similar issues while highlighting similar difficulties. What to spend money on, and whose money to spend, appear to be the central questions as the campaign draws to a close.

hubzone

The City of Palm Bay to host HUBZone Webinar in partnership with the U.S. Small Business Administration

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The City of Palm Bay in Partnership with the U.S. Small Business Administration will host a HUBZone webinar on October 7, 2021 at 10:30am. 
 
PALM BAY, FLORIDA – At the March 18th Regular Council Meeting, the United States Small Business Administration (SBA) Senior Area Manager Vince LoPresti joined City leaders for a ceremonial signing of a Strategic Alliance Memorandum to formalize a collaborative effort between the City of Palm Bay and the SBA to strengthen and expand small business development in Palm Bay.
 
The City’s collaborative programming with the SBA kicked off earlier this year with a series of webinars on exporting for businesses, which can be found by visiting https://bit.ly/3Cbs5e9, and will continue with a free webinar on the U.S. Small Business Administration’s Historically Underutilized Business Zone (HUBZone) Program. This webinar will review the criteria and eligibility for businesses seeking to obtain HUBZone Certification and how the certification can help businesses gain preferential access to federal procurement opportunities. 
 
The HUBZone Webinar is scheduled for Thursday, October 7, 2021 from 10:30am to 11:30am. Participants can join the webinar through Microsoft Teams by calling 1 (347) 378-4680; Conference ID: 286667068# or via the webinar link available at: https://bit.ly/3knz0L7.  
 
The SBA and the City of Palm Bay share a common objective to help start, retain, and grow small businesses. The mission of the City includes a focus on growing a diverse local business community and creating job opportunities for citizens.
 
Through this partnership, the City and SBA will work to provide helpful information, resources, training, and events designed to nurture and support small business development. The Strategic Alliance Memorandum seeks to align complimentary services and resources from each organization to provide maximum benefits to the small business community.
 
To stay informed of future programming from the SBA and City of Palm Bay, visit www.pbfl.org/news and subscribe to receive news via email.
 

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