Commissioner's Corner- Ed Martinez

In just over 30 days we will be faced with decisions  that could have a big impact on the future of Cocoa Beach. I would like to share the news and views that are important to me.

Our Lagoon and Environment

My number one priority is the health of our Lagoon. I spearheaded the creation of the Sustainability Committee. The committee will tackle the environmental issues facing our community. The focus will be on the 4 R's Reduce, Remove, Restore and Response. I am in favor of the Save Our Lagoon plan and spoke in favor of it at the County Commission meeting. My family is doing its part. We are growing oysters as part of the Brevard Zoo's program to restore our lagoon's oyster beds. We have never used fertilizer on our lawn. Our businesses are transitioning to paper products. I encourage you to do what you can to help.

Community

This past month was full of great opportunities to support our community. My wife and I participated in a few fundraisers and surfed tandem in the National Kidney Foundation Surf Festival. Community is so important to my family. We volunteer time or donations that benefit our students, athletes, police, homeless children, library, veterans etc. We are excited about the Makerspace (vocational learning) room we are building for Roosevelt Elementary. We also sponsor the library's reading program every summer. This is our community and we are glad to be involved.

          Economic Development

I understand the process of opening a business and I know what it is like to worry about payroll. I recognize the challenges of a small business in a small city. I encourage and support entrepreneurs to grow their small business in our city and be a part of a thriving community. These businesses create jobs, improve the tax base and bring a sense of pride. As Cocoa Beach Main Street Board Member and Promotions Chair I helped raise 14k this year for the improvement and beautification of our city. We are excited to see the progress of the city's streetscape program that will not only beautify ours streets  but also help in filtration of our storm water runoff.
I encourage you to call or email me with your concerns and suggestions. I can be reached at 321-205-7521 and emartinez@cityofcocoabeach.com. Thank You