PSL On The Mic

2025 was a big year for Port St. Lucie.We were named an All-America City, we made great progress on key infrastructure projects and, with help from residents and volunteers, we transformed neighborhoods in inspiring ways.On the year's final episode of PSL On The Mic, Mayor Shannon Martin shares a recap of 2025 and looks to 2026.PSLinProgress: See the progress we're making in Port St. LucieStay informed about City news, events, meetings and activities: www.cityofpsl.com/stayinformed Like what you’re hearing? Suggest a topic for a future episode: www.cityofpsl.com/podcast

Conservative financial management is our City’s foundation. We operate with a lean, efficient government and emphasize long-range financial planning. That has allowed us to:Reduce our millage rate for 10 straight years, making us the third-lowest millage rate among the 20 largest populated cities in Florida.Reduce our debt by $400 millionImprove our bond ratingsIncrease services while decreasing staffing ratios. While Port St. Lucie’s population has increased, we’ve decreased the staffing ratio to 5.95 employees per 1,000 residents, down from 7.45 15 years ago.These are all points to keep in mind as the state Legislature debates several proposals related to property taxes this upcoming legislative session. Stephen Okiye, the City of Port St. Lucie's Finance Director, was one of several representatives from local governments who spoke recently in front of a House committee to talk about how the reduction or elimination of property taxes could impact the ability of cities and counties to provide core services.Stephen sits down with us for the latest episode of PSL On The Mic to discuss the proposals and what it would mean for our City if there was a significant reduction or total elimination of property taxes.Stay informed about City news, events, meetings and activities: www.cityofpsl.com/stayinformed Like what you’re hearing? Suggest a topic for a future episode: www.cityofpsl.com/podcast

The essence of civic engagement is connecting a city with its residents. On this episode of PSL On The Mic, we sit down with Makenzie Spittler, Communications' assistant manager for engagement and budget, who shares with us the story behind two recently launched community-driven programs that have already made lasting impacts in Port St. Lucie.The first initiative is the Flag Retirement Box Program, born from a resident's idea to make it easier to properly retire worn or tattered U.S. flags. In just two weeks, more than 260 flags have been deposited in three boxes.The second initiative, the Little Free Library program, helps us provide accessible literary resources to residents across the City. These are not just boxes of books,  however. They create neighborhood hubs for imagination, connection and lifelong learning. Flag Retirement ProgramLittle Free LibraryStay informed about City news, events, meetings and activities: www.cityofpsl.com/stayinformed Like what you’re hearing? Suggest a topic for a future episode: www.cityofpsl.com/podcast

Florida’s newest professional soccer club now calls Port St. Lucie home. Port St. Lucie Sports Club has been awarded a USL franchise and will launch professional men’s and women’s soccer teams with plans to play at a new soccer stadium to be constructed at Walton & One.So, how will a professional soccer team and a new stadium kick-start development on the east side of the City? On Episode 60, we'll hear from Community Redevelopment Director Jennifer Davis and Communications Director Sarah Prohaska, who will explain how the stadium will serve as that catalyst for that growth and opportunity, bringing people together for more than sport; it will energize the city and help us build our future.Walton & One Port St. Lucie Sports ClubStay informed about City news, events, meetings and activities: www.cityofpsl.com/stayinformed Like what you’re hearing? Suggest a topic for a future episode: www.cityofpsl.com/podcast

The Police Athletic League (P.A.L.) is a nonprofit youth organization that partners with police departments to provide kids and teens with safe, structured and positive activities outside of school.On Episode 59, we're joined by Port St. Lucie Police Officers Amanda McCarty and Fabio Improta, the director and assistant director of PSLPD P.A.L., who share with us how a revamped P.A.L. is keeping youth away from negative influences but is also helping to strengthen the bond between kids and the police.P.A.L.: https://www.pslpolice.com/Community/Programs/Police-Athletic-League-PALP.A.L. free fishing clinic: https://www.pslpolice.com/Community/Programs/Police-Athletic-League-PAL/Free-Fishing-ClinicStay informed about City news, events, meetings and activities: www.cityofpsl.com/stayinformed Like what you’re hearing? Suggest a topic for a future episode: www.cityofpsl.com/podcast