Another National Nod for Stuart
Downtown Stuart has once again captured national attention—this time earning a spot on WorldAtlas.com’s list of the 10 Prettiest Downtown Strips in Florida!
The list highlights Florida’s most charming and walkable downtowns, steering the spotlight away from theme parks and coastlines to showcase “road trips for the feet.” Other towns recognized include Fernandina Beach, Lake Wales, Mount Dora, St. Augustine, Safety Harbor, Tarpon Springs, Venice, Apalachicola, and DeFuniak Springs.
This honor adds to a growing list of accolades for Stuart, already celebrated as one of the “South’s Best Small Towns” (Southern Living), “America’s Most Beautiful Small Town” (House Beautiful), and one of Florida’s “Under-the-Radar, Unsung Beach Towns” (The Boston Globe). Coastal Living crowned Stuart the “Happiest Seaside Town,” and USA TODAY named it among the “Best Coastal Towns” two years in a row.
WorldAtlas is a well-known digital publisher covering topics in geography, travel, sociology, and the environment. Its travel lists are widely shared and trusted—not affiliated with any encyclopedias, just good storytelling backed by research.
Whether you’re a longtime resident or planning your first visit, there’s never been a better time to stroll through our award-winning downtown! |
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2026 Stormwater Calendar Photo Contest Now Open!
The City of Stuart Public Works Department is pleased to announce the opening of its annual Stormwater Calendar Photo Contest for the 2026 edition. The contest invites students, amateurs, and professional photographers to submit original images that capture the beauty of the natural environment within the City of Stuart.
This year’s theme, “Creating a Healthier River, Day by Day,” encourages photographers to focus on the visual story of clean water, healthy habitats, and the connection between daily life and water quality in the St. Lucie River and surrounding waterways.
A total of 13 winning images will be selected by a panel of judges to be featured in the 2026 Stormwater Calendar. The calendar is designed to highlight the importance of environmental awareness and stormwater management in protecting our treasured riverine ecosystems. In addition to winning entries being published in the 2025 Calendar, the winning photos will appear on the City’s website for the entire year along with photo credits.
“This contest is a great way to involve the community in the City’s ongoing efforts to protect and restore the St. Lucie River,” said City of Stuart Mayor Campbell Rich. “Each photo tells a story—of stewardship, natural beauty, and the shared responsibility we all have in preserving the health of our waterways.”
Submission Details:
• Deadline for submissions:September 1, 2025
• Limit: Up to six (6) entries per photographer
• Eligibility:Photos must be taken within Stuart’s city limits
(Boundaries: Jensen Beach Boulevard to the north, Slater Street to the south, the South Fork of the St. Lucie River to the west, and the Intracoastal Waterway to the east. A City Limits Map is available with entry materials.)
• Format: All images must be in landscape (horizontal) orientation
• Medium: Digital images submitted on CD, DVD, or flash drive, accompanied by a high-quality print
• Restrictions: Images must not include recognizable people or business signage
Full contest rules and the entry form are available on the City of Stuart’s website https://www.stuartfl.gov/804/2026-Stormwater-Calendar-Photo-Contest.
For additional information, contact Brittany Dobridnia in the City of Stuart Public Works Department at (772) 600-1259 or via email at bdobridnia@stuartfl.gov. |
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FDOT Willoughby Extension Public Meeting June 26, 2025
FDOT invites the public to a Public Kick-Off Meeting for the Willoughby Boulevard Extension from State Road (SR) 714/Monterey Road to U.S. 1/SR 5/Federal Highway on Wednesday, June 25, 2025 (virtual), and Thursday, June 26, 2025 (in-person).
Virtual: Persons who do not wish to attend the Public Kick-Off Meeting in person can join the meeting virtually at 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday, June 25, 2025. To register for the Public Kick-Off Meeting, please use the following link https://tinyurl.com/419669-3-Willoughby-Kickoff. To join by phone during the virtual meeting, please dial 1 (914) 614-3221, Access Code, 286-413-659. You will receive an email with a link to log in the day of the virtual meeting. If using a mobile device, the free “GoToWebinar” application is required to attend. Please allow adequate log-in time to view the presentation in its entirety.
In-Person: The Public Kick-Off Meeting will be held at the 10th Street Community Center, located at 724 SE 10th Street, Stuart, Florida 34994 on Thursday, June 26, 2025. The Public Kick-Off Meeting will begin at 5:30 p.m. as an open-house format. A formal presentation will begin at 6:00 p.m. followed by a comment period.
The same information will be presented at both the virtual and in-person Public Kick-Off Meeting,
All exhibits presented at the Public Kick-Off Meeting can be viewed electronically on the project website https://www.fdot.gov/projects/WilloughbyPDE. Questions and comments may be submitted via the virtual chat feature for project personnel to address during the virtual Public Kick-Off Meeting.
A PD&E Study is FDOT’s process to evaluate the social, economic, and environmental impacts associated with a planned transportation improvement project.
The purpose of this project is to provide system linkage in the roadway network, reduce area congestion by providing an additional north-south corridor, improve travel and multimodal connectivity, and address safety for bicyclists.
PROJECT CONTACT INFORMATION
María Formoso, P.E., P.M.P., FDOT Project Manager
Florida Department of Transportation. 3400 West Commercial Boulevard Fort Lauderdale, FL 33309
Phone: (954)777-4677
Toll free: (866) 336-8435, ext. 4677
Maria.Formoso@dot.state.fl.us |
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Hurricane Prep 101: Protecting Your Home Before the Storm
From the City of Stuart Public Works & Emergency Management Team
Hurricane season is here, and while we hope for calm skies over Stuart, preparation is key. Last month, we talked about building your disaster supply kit. Now, let’s talk about protecting your home—because a few simple actions today can make a big difference later.
1. Clear Your Yard
Loose items like patio furniture, potted plants, garden tools, and even decor can become dangerous projectiles during high winds. Take time now to:
• Trim trees and remove dead limbs
• Secure or store outdoor items
• Clean gutters and downspouts
2. Check Your Drainage
Stuart gets its fair share of rain even without a hurricane. Storm drains blocked by debris can quickly flood yards and streets. Help us out by:
• Reporting blocked drains to the City’s Stormwater Hotline: (772) 600-1289
• Avoiding yard waste dumping into ditches or canals
3. Shutter Up
Now’s a good time to inspect hurricane shutters or plywood panels. Practice installing them so you’re not fumbling in the wind later. Don’t have shutters? Get your materials before the shelves go bare.
4. Know Your Zone
Stuart has designated evacuation zones based on risk of storm surge. Find yours by visiting Martin County Emergency Operations Center and make sure your family’s plan matches the zone’s risks.
5. Sign Up for Alerts
Stay informed with emergency notifications from Martin County Emergency Management. Text ALERTMARTIN to 888777 or sign up online.
BONUS TIP: Protect the Pets
Include your furry (or feathered!) friends in your storm plans. Make sure they’re microchipped, and pack food, meds, and comfort items in your disaster kit.
We’re all in this together, Stuart. By preparing now, you help protect your family, your neighbors, and our beautiful coastal community.
Stay safe, stay ready – The City of Stuart |
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STUART POLICE DEPARTMENT
Congratulations
Kimberly Allen-Hearn
Please join us in celebrating Kimberly Allen-Hearn, Records Supervisor for the Stuart Police Department, who was recently named Civilian (Professional) Employee of the Year for a medium-sized agency by the Florida Police Chiefs Association at their 73rd Annual Conference!
Kim is a key member of the department, known for her dedication, leadership, and behind-the-scenes support. From ensuring compliance with public records laws to working closely with partner agencies like the State Attorney’s Office and MCSO, her work is essential to the SPD’s continued excellence.
We’re proud to have her on our team—congrats, Kim! |
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Chief Flamur Zenelovic with Kimberly Allen-Hearn, who was recognized as the Civilian (Professional) Employee of the Year by the Florida Police Chiefs Association. |
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A Legacy of Kindness, Service--and Protecting Others
Let's Martin This County
CONTRIBUTED BY JESSICA & MELISSA, DAUGHTERS OF MARTIN DRUMMOND
On the morning of June 28, 2024, my father, Martin Drummond, was tragically killed by a drunk driver during his daily bike ride. It was a shattering loss—one that rippled through our family, our friends, and the community he quietly and consistently served.
In the days that followed, the stories poured in. Friends, neighbors, and even strangers reached out to share how my dad had touched their lives:
“He always made me feel welcome.”
“Your dad was always the first to offer help.”
“He genuinely cared—he wasn’t just in it for himself.”
We lost so much more than a father. We lost a light—a steady, guiding presence. And yet, in that loss, his legacy became clear: a life rooted in kindness, humility, and service.
That legacy inspired us to start Let’s Martin This County—a movement to carry forward his spirit by encouraging small acts of care and connection, just like he did every day.
One reckless decision ended his life. One moment of carelessness left a family grieving and a community dimmed. We can’t undo it—but we can choose differently going forward.
As we approach the one-year anniversary of his death—and the Fourth of July—I’m asking you to celebrate with intention. Please:
Don’t drink and drive.
Make a plan.
Call a ride.
Protect the people you love by making choices that honor them—and others.
If you’d like to be part of this movement to “Martin This County,” we invite you to join us for a special event: Let's Martin This County. |
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Stars, Stripes & a Centennial Salute!
Celebrate 100 years of Martin County with a star-spangled bang at Downtown Stuart’s Flagler Park (201 SW Flagler Ave.) on Friday, July 4, 2025—an unforgettable day of patriotism, fun, and fireworks!
The celebration cruises into gear at 10 a.m. with the 3rd Annual Golf Cart Parade! Starting at the 10th Street Community Center, the festive 4-mile route rolls through Stuart with a patriotic escort by Police Chief Zenelovic.
Deck out your cart in stars and stripes—prizes will be awarded for the most creatively decorated rides!
Entry is just $25 per cart. Sign up HERE.
From 4:30 to 8 p.m., the kiddos can enjoy games, face painting, and tons of activities in Flagler Park.
Bring your appetite! Eight food trucks—four in Flagler Park and four near the Riverwalk Stage—will serve up tasty eats for all.
Then, let the good vibes roll with live music by the Melinda Elna Band from 7–10:15 p.m. on the Riverwalk Stage, sponsored by Stuart Main Street and the Downtown Business Association.
And of course, it wouldn’t be the 4th of July without a sky-shattering fireworks finale! Gather your friends, family, and patriotic spirit as we light up the night in red, white, and boom. The dazzling display launches at 9 p.m. sharp! This year, we’re especially proud to team up with Martin County to co-host this star-spangled spectacular and centennial salute right here in the heart of it all—downtown Stuart, the county seat!
Join us for a day of community celebration, and summer fun as we salute a century of Martin County memories. We can’t wait to celebrate with you!
More details HERE or call (772) 288-5340. |
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Traffic Advisories & Alerts
(1) Downtown Stuart temporary lane closures and lane shifts, week of June 23, 2025.
• SW Seminole Street from S. Colorado to SW St. Lucie Avenue - closed until November 2025.
• SW Flagler Ave. from S. Colorado Ave. to SW St. Lucie Avenue - flaggers will be on hand to direct traffic.
• S Colorado Ave. from SW/SE Seminole St. to SE Ocean Blvd. - flaggers will be on hand to direct traffic.
• SW St. Lucie Ave. from SW Flagler Ave. to SW Seminole St. - flagger will be on hand to direct traffic.
(2) Intermittent lane shifts/closures and detours, Palm Street between Dixie Highway and Stuart Ave., Tuesday, May 20, 2025, through Monday, July 21, 2025, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
(3) Intermittent lane shifts/closures and detours, Oleander Street between Dixie Highway and North River Drive, Friday, May 23, 2025, through Wednesday, July 23, 2025, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
(4) Intermittent lane shifts/closures and detours, Australian Street between Stuart Ave. and North River Drive. Thursday, May 22, 2025, through Tuesday, July 22, 2025, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
(5) Intermittent lane shifts/closures and detours, Stuart Ave. between Palm St. and Oleander St. Tuesday, May 20, 2025, through Monday, July 21, 2025, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
(6) Intermittent lane shifts/closures and detours, NW Poinsettia St. between Dixie Hwy. and Stuart Ave. Friday, May 23, 2025, through Wednesday, July 23, 2025, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
(7) Intermittent lane closures, detours, and flagman for asphalt restoration in Zone 2 of the City of Stuart annual pavement maintenance program. Please bear in mind that weather conditions and other unforeseen circumstances could affect construction schedules:
SE Denver Ave, 06/17/2025, 06/25/2025
SE Florida Ave, 06/17/2025, 06/25/2025
SE Illinois Ave, 06/17/2025, 06/25/2025
SE Hospital Ave, 06/17/2025, 06/25/2025
SE Amerigo Ave, 06/17/2025, 06/25/2025
SE Balboa Ave, 06/17/2025, 06/25/2025
SE Weir St, 06/17/2025, 06/25/2025 |
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| City of Stuart Commission meetings, conducted in the City Hall Chambers, are streamed live. (View HERE). City Hall Chambers are open to the public during the meetings. |
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June 23, 2025, City Commission Meeting Agenda
ROLL CALL
INVOCATION
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
PROCLAMATIONS
PRESENTATIONS
1. WELLS FARGO BUILDING DISCUSSION AND UPDATE
COMMENTS BY CITY COMMISSIONERS
COMMENTS BY CITY MANAGER
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC (Non-Agenda Related; 3 minutes max.)
CONSENT CALENDAR
2. APPROVAL OF 06/09/2025 CCM MINUTES
3. TITLE VI POLICY UPDATE (RC):
RESOLUTION No. 62-2025; A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF STUART, FLORIDA, ADOPTING A TITLE VI NON-DISCRIMINATION POLICY AND PROGRAM PLAN; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE; AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.
END OF CONSENT CALENDAR
COMMISSION ACTION
4. AUTHORIZING USES FOR THE HALF-CENT SALES SURTAX / Park Inventory (RC):
RESOLUTION No. 57-2025; A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF STUART, FLORIDA, AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER OR DESIGNEE TO PURSUE QUALIFYING FIXED CAPITAL EXPENDITURES AND OUTLAY PROJECTS UTILIZING PROCEEDS FROM THE HALF-CENT INFRASTRUCTURE SALES SURTAX APPROVED BY THE VOTERS OF MARTIN COUNTY IN THE 2024 GENERAL ELECTION; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE; AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.
5. APPOINTMENT OF BDB REPRESENTATIVE (RC):
RESOLUTION No. 55-2025; A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF STUART, FLORIDA, AUTHORIZING THE APPOINTMENT OF A REPRESENTATIVE TO THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT BOARD (BDB) OF MARTIN COUNTY, INC. FOR A TWO-YEAR TERM; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE; AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.
ORDINANCE SECOND READING
ORDINANCE FIRST READING
DISCUSSION AND DELIBERATION
ADJOURNMENT |
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(L-R): City Manager Michael Mortell, City Clerk Mary Kindel, Vice Mayor Christopher Collins, Commissioner Eula Clarke, Mayor Campbell Rich, Commissioner Laura Giobbi, Commissioner Sean Reed, City Attorney Lee Baggett. |
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Future City of Stuart Meetings
Regular City Commission Meeting
June 23, 2025, 5:30 p.m.
Community Redevelopment Board
July 1, 2025, 4:00 p.m.
Local Planning Agency/Planning Advisory Board
July 10, 2025, 5:30 p.m.
City Commission Meeting
July 14, 2025, 4:00 p.m.
Joint Community Redevelopment Agency/Community Redevelopment Board/City Commission Meeting
July 28, 2025, 4:00 p.m.
City Commission Meeting
July 28, 2025, 5:30 p.m. |
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Calendar of Events
Market on Main
Every Sunday, 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Flagler Park, 201 SW Flagler Avenue
Produced by Stuart Main Street
More Information: (772) 286-2848
Rock'n Riverwalk
Every Sunday, 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Riverwalk Stage, 300 St. Lucie Avenue
Produced by Stuart Main Street and DBA
More information: (772) 286-2848 |
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Copyright 2024 City of Stuart. All Rights Reserved.
121 Flagler Ave. Stuart Fl. 34994
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