Our Village Voice VOL. 37 NO. 6
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Town Of Jupiter News Jupiter Fire Rescue Department By Jim Kuretski, Mayor, Town of Jupiter Our new Jupiter Fire Rescue Department (JFRD) is well prepared to begin full-service operations on October 1; and earlier than that, if Palm Beach County would let us. That is less than four months from now! Witnessing JFRD’s formation and maturation over the past 2 3/4 years, along with the incredible teamwork and support from every other Town of Jupiter department has been awe-inspiring. The Jupiter community’s positive excitement about JFRD continues to grow. Creation of our new Jupiter Fire Rescue Department remains ahead of schedule and within budget. We will be able to deliver the significant property tax reductions for Town of Jupiter and Fire Rescue services, as we committed three years ago. The construction of two new fire stations (one adjacent Cinquez Park off Indiantown Road and the other at Piatt
Place off U.S.1 Highway) is substantially complete with the interior furnishings’ installations underway. The existing Abacoa fire station on Military Trail will revert to Town of Jupiter ownership and JFRD use on October 1. A temporary JFRD Fire Station has been installed on the Abacoa Community Park property. This temporary fire station will be operational until required renovations to the existing Abacoa fire station are completed. The new JFRD ambulance vehicles were received in early June. Two of the new JFRD fire engine vehicles have been received with a third vehicle expected in late June. The new JFRD ladder truck is expected to be received in July. The fire rescue services equipment and supplies including various state of the art lifesaving items have been ordered with deliveries on-going. A strong partnership has already been developed between JFRD and Jupiter Medical Center Hospital to ensure the best and seamless medical patient care possible. All required firefighters and paramedics have been hired and onboarded. There were about 1,600 applications received for the 90 JFRD operational positions. This enabled JFRD to selectively hire those deemed to be the best of the best candidates. The frontline leaders, 12 captains, 12 lieutenants and 12 driver engineers had average fire rescue experience levels of 23 years, 15 years and 16 years respectively. Town Of Jupiter News on page 2
Commissioner’s Update Discover The Magic Of Mounts Botanical Garden By Commissioner Maria G. Marino Step into a living paradise and experience the wonders of Mounts Botanical Garden, the oldest and largest public garden in Palm Beach County, where every path leads to discovery and every corner bursts with life. What began as a simple vision by horticulturist Marvin Umphrey “Red” Mounts has blossomed into a breathtaking sanctuary featuring more than 7,000 species of tropical and subtropical plants gathered from six continents. Spanning over 14 acres, this lush oasis invites visitors to explore 25 distinct themed gardens and landscapes, each offering its own unique charm. Wander through vibrant butterfly gardens, tranquil water features, exotic tropical groves, and serene meditation spaces. At times, the dense greenery and towering palms make you feel as though you’ve stepped into a hidden rainforest far from everyday life.
But the garden is more than just a beautiful escape, it’s a hub of creativity, wellness, a n d c o m m u n i t y. Throughout the year, Mounts Botanical Garden hosts a wide variety of engaging events and classes. Whether you’re interested in Tai Chi for relaxation and health, watercolor painting among the flowers, orchid potting workshops, or even the popular Dogs’ Day in the Garden, there’s truly something for everyone to enjoy. One of the best-kept local secrets? Palm Beach County residents receive free admission on the first Wednesday of every month, offering an easy opportunity to enjoy this natural attraction. In the month of May, this falls on Wednesday, May 6, with complimentary entry available from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Residents must present valid proof of Palm Beach County residency upon arrival. Commissioner’s Update on page 2
JUNE 2026
Bill’s Box By Bill Thompson The copyright date of this piece is May 10, one day before deadline for our June newsletter. Readers will be kept in the dark until the mail is delivered the first week in June. Not hard news but hopefully of value. We need a flock of carrier pigeons. Other than war and the economy, people in our little village are probably getting along about as usual for the most part. Despite quite a number of hitches, most of our folks are fortunate. We must keep in mind those outside The Shores—the striking number of citizens who are in need. Homeless and hungry. We are taught to help anyway we can. Yes, I started my professional life as a social worker. Despite progressing to president and CEO, my instincts of social worker never left me. So forgive me for singing that song. Sometimes I realize I might sound like a preacher, though far from that be. Not in league with unnecessary international wars, Shores residents have experienced unusual heated discord over proposed changes to the nature of our village. However a resolution is reached, the heat, of necessity, will subside over time. That is my opinion only. Enough said. Bill’s Box on page 5
June 14
June 21
REPORT SUSPICIOUS ACTIVITY IMMEDIATELY TO THE JUPITER POLICE DEPARTMENT
(561) 799-4445
Use 911 for emergencies only. Lock car doors. Do not leave valuables in the car.