Palm Bay Mayor Rob Medina Releases September 2026 Mayor's Message

As we begin September, I want to first take a moment to reflect on the life and legacy of Sergeant Frank Tobar. On August 20, members of the Palm Bay Police Department, City leaders, fellow officers, family, friends, and members of our community gathered for our annual memorial ceremony in his honor.

Sergeant Tobar served the City of Palm Bay for many years, first joining the City in 1995 before beginning his law enforcement career in 2004. Throughout his service, he made a lasting impact on our community, especially through his more than 16 years mentoring young people in the Police Explorers program. His legacy continues through the officers he served alongside, the young people he guided, and the lives he touched. To Frank's family, loved ones, and colleagues, we continue to stand with you and honor his memory.

I'm excited to share that the City of Palm Bay has been awarded $3.5 million through Florida's Job Growth Grant Fund to support critical infrastructure for the future Phoenix Business Park. This investment will help expand wastewater capacity and lay the groundwork for new industrial and commercial development, creating opportunities to attract high-wage jobs and strengthen Palm Bay's position in advanced manufacturing, defense and other growing industries. I want to personally thank Governor Ron DeSantis and Florida Secretary of Commerce Alex Kelly for recognizing the tremendous potential here in Palm Bay and investing in the future of our community. This is an exciting step forward as we continue working to bring new investment, new jobs and greater economic opportunity to our great city.

I also want to give a huge shoutout to Johnny Hernandez of Round 13 Boxing of Palm Bay for another successful Mayor's Cup Invitational. Congratulations to all of the winners, especially Round 13 boxer Allan Hernandez on his victory over Canada's Luc Jason. I was also deeply honored to receive a New Generation Championship Belt in recognition of my support for the sport of boxing here in Palm Bay. Thank you to everyone who helped make this event a success and who continues to support our local athletes.

As we celebrate Labor Day, I also want to recognize the hardworking men and women who keep our community and our country moving forward. I am especially grateful for our City of Palm Bay employees, whose work and dedication make a difference for our residents every day. To everyone who works hard to provide for their families, serve their neighbors, and build a better community, thank you. I hope you enjoy a safe and well-deserved Labor Day.

This September also marks 25 years since the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. On Friday, September 11, at 8:30 a.m., the City of Palm Bay will gather at Sacrifice Park for our annual Patriot Day Ceremony.

Twenty-five years later, we still remember exactly where we were when our nation was attacked. We remember the shock and heartbreak, but we also remember the extraordinary courage that followed. First responders ran toward danger. Neighbors helped neighbors. Americans stood together.

Each of the lives lost that day had meaning and purpose. We honor them, the families forever changed by that day, and the heroes whose courage and sacrifice showed us the very best of America. As a community and as a nation, we have a responsibility to ensure they are never forgotten.

September is also a month of important observances for many throughout our community.

To our Jewish neighbors observing Rosh Hashanah, beginning at sundown September 11, I wish you and your families a peaceful and sweet new year. As Yom Kippur begins at sundown September 20, I extend my best wishes to all who will observe this sacred Day of Atonement through prayer and reflection.

Beginning September 15, we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month and recognize the history, culture, traditions, and contributions of Hispanic Americans. Palm Bay is blessed with a diverse community, and I am proud to celebrate the many Hispanic residents who help make our city such a special place to call home.

On September 17, we also recognize Constitution Day, commemorating the signing of the United States Constitution in 1787. The words "We the People" remain a powerful reminder that the freedoms we enjoy also come with responsibilities as citizens. May we never take those freedoms, or the sacrifices made to protect them, for granted.

God bless you, God bless Palm Bay, and God bless the United States of America.