The Key West Post

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.

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

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.

The last time Key West faced the unusual task of appointing an interim city commissioner was in 1995, when District 6 Commissioner Emery Major was suspended and later removed from office. Governor Lawton Chiles issued the suspension on June 30, 1995, after federal investigators uncovered evidence of election fraud and bribery tied to Major’s 1993 campaign. The suspension created a vacancy that required immediate action under city law, much like the current District 5 process

District 4 City Commission Race Heats Up: The "One Human Family" has two distinct communities in Key West, and District 4 in the center of the island is a perfect example of the differences. Key West now has a third candidate running for the District 4 City Commissioner seat. Juan Llera, born in Cuba, and Sarah Compton from Missouri, are two outsiders hoping to lead District 4 residents in Key West. Commissioner Lissette Carey, a Key West native, has yet to announce a re

Remembering Commissioner Mary Lou Hoover

District 2 City Commission Seat Draws Two Candidates: With Commissioner Sam Kaufman launching a mayoral bid, his District 2 seat will be open in the 2026 election. Two longtime Key West business owners have stepped forward, one with political experience and deep Key West roots, and the other a newcomer to Key West without political experience.

Exploring Key West Government: City Commission Leadership and Historical Facts: Key West, a vibrant island city known for its breathtaking sunsets and lively atmosphere, boasts a unique government structure that significantly impacts its community. Gaining insight into this governance, particularly the City Commission and its leadership, helps residents understand how decisions shape their lives and the island’s future.

The First Amendment applies to everybody. The Second Amendment comes immediately after the First Amendment for a reason. Our founders understood that the right to bear arms was not just about hunting or sport—it was about protecting the most fundamental freedom of all: the freedom of expression. Without the ability to defend that right, speech itself can be silenced. History proves the point. Just 90 miles from our Key West shores, Cuba offers a stark reminder. When the Com

Mayor & Key West City Commission have designated October as Christian Heritage Month, acknowledging the profound history and influence of the Christian faith on our nation and community.