There’s been a lot of false talk lately about a settlement deal that allowed a developer to move forward with a building project. I want to share the real story — and why I think our village leaders made a smart choice.
The settlement made the original project smaller, helped us avoid a very expensive lawsuit, and protected a rare and special forest. Still, some people, like Vice Mayor Mark Merwitzer, have published statements that don’t match what actually happened.
False Claim #1: "We could have stopped the development another way."
What really happened: Our village lost two court cases about this project. The developer had legal permission, given years ago, to build big towers. The courts agreed. Other ideas were suggested, including one from the Vice Mayor, but none of them had a real chance in court. Trying to stop the project that way would have likely led to more lawsuits.
False Claim #2: "The $15 million lawsuit was just meant to scare us."
What really happened: The lawsuit was real. The developer used a state law that lets landowners ask for money if the government stops them from using their property. If we had tried to fight it, it could have taken years and cost millions of dollars, possibly leaving us with less money for things like parks, police, and roads.
False Claim #3: "The deal gave the developer more than they wanted."
What really happened: The deal actually gave them less. It reduced the business space by over 75%, replaced tall towers with smaller townhomes, and counted hotel rooms as part of the housing limit. Best of all, it saved the Pine Rockland forest — a rare natural area that’s home to special plants and animals. That forest is now safe from being built on.
False Claim #4: "This was a secret deal behind closed doors."
What really happened: There was nothing secret about it. The right to build was given to the developer many years ago. Our current leaders didn’t create those rules. This Council held multiple public meetings, legal talks, and open workshops. Even if people didn’t agree with the final decision, the process was open and legal.
Here’s the bottom line: Everyone in Palmetto Bay wants to protect our neighborhoods, nature, and way of life. This settlement wasn’t perfect, but it was much better than the other options. It saved us from spending too much money, made the project smaller, and protected our local forest.
We should thank Village Manager Nick Marano, Mayor Karyn Cunningham, and Council Members Patrick Fiore and Steve Cody for working diligently to protect our families future in Palmetto Bay.
Let’s stay involved. Let’s keep asking questions and expect honesty from everyone who serves.
And let’s base our decisions on facts — not rumors or politics. Palmetto Bay deserves clear thinking, honest leaders, and real solutions.
PS Remember to share our petition with your neighbors --> https://www.change.org/TanglewoodLinearPark
Thanks!