The Key West Post

Overview of City Commission Meeting Agenda for 1/6/26

Keys Patriot Alliance Wants Equal Enforcement of HARC Guidelines: The rainbow fence controversy now facing Key West did not appear out of nowhere. It emerged at a moment when public trust in local government was already strained and scrutiny of City Hall was unusually intense. In a recent email sent to City Hall and the Historic Architectural Review Commission (HARC), the Keys Patriot Alliance (KPA) called for enforcement under the city’s historic preservation laws. The gr

From Rainbow Crosswalks to Rainbow Fences in Key West: The debate first surfaced with rainbow-painted crosswalks, which were removed earlier this year by the Florida Department of Transportation. The removals weren't unique to Key West and followed similar actions taken in other Florida cities. Most city commissioners, the mayor, and their voters defied the law until, much like the immigration issue, Governor DeSantis stepped in to reinforce it.  While many residents anticipa

Food Pantries Update: Rare Show of Unity at City Commission: The Key West City Commission came together tonight in a rare show of unity, voting unanimously to provide emergency funding for local food banks and nonprofits. The resolution sets aside up to $75,000, money that will be distributed quickly to groups already serving families in need.

Water Quality Testing Drama in Key West: Key West is famous for its sunsets and coral reefs, and most of us agree: clean water matters. But agreeing on the goal is the easy part. The hard part is deciding how to measure, manage, and pay for the work that keeps our waters healthy. Key West sits next to one of the country’s largest marine sanctuaries, so local water quality isn’t just an environmental issue—it’s an economic one.

Former Planning Director Katie Halloran Complaint and Final Report Findings: On November 13, 2025, attorney Ria Chattergoon of RC Law Group in Hollywood, Florida released a public investigation report commissioned by the City of Key West. The report examined allegations made by former Planning Director Katie Halloran, who resigned on September 1, 2025 after claiming she faced a hostile work environment under City Manager Brian Barroso.

Food Pantries & Outrage Politics in Key West: If you received e‑mails asking for campaign donations after false accusations that commissioners refused to help food pantries, that was no accident—it was part of a calculated plan. The tactic is familiar: first, say something outrageous to get voters angry. Then, climb on the soapbox and beat down the strawman you created. The goal is to demonize your opponent so you look better. 

Grand Jury Report Update by City Manager Brian Barroso: At the December 2, 2025 City Commission meeting, City Manager Brian L. Barroso presented a detailed update on the City’s progress in addressing the recommendations issued by the grand jury last spring.

Greg Veliz Appointed Interim District 5 Commissioner: The Key West City Commission voted on December 2, 2025, to appoint Gregory Veliz, former City Manager and current Executive Director of the Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority, as interim District 5 Commissioner. The appointment fills the vacancy left by Commissioner Mary Lou Hoover's passing in November. Veliz was sworn in before the evening session and began serving immediately, continuing until the August 18, 2026, election

City Manager Installs Primary Color Bike Racks Against HARC Rules: Recent discussions in Key West have focused on unapproved primary color installations in the city’s historic district. At the Historic Architectural Review Commission (HARC) meetings on October 28 and November 18, 2025, commissioners addressed the primary color arch, fences, and bike racks. These items remain under review, with possible ordinance or guideline changes pending. One board member noted that staff

Florida Department of Transportation District 6 staff presented their tentative five-year work program to Monroe County commissioners on October 15, 2025, outlining priorities and funding through 2031. The overall District 6 (lower South Florida area) program totals about $4.15 billion, with Monroe County’s share estimated at roughly $600 million.

The District 5 seat on the Key West City Commission became vacant following the passing of Commissioner Mary Lou Hoover on November 19, 2025. Hoover had represented District 5 since 2018 and was widely respected for her dedication to civic service. Under Section 2-31 of the Key West Code of Ordinances, the City Commission was required to appoint an interim commissioner within fifteen days of the vacancy.