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Residents of District 85,
April was an incredible month, and it felt great to be back in the district and fully engaged with our community. I had the opportunity to meet with so many different groups, hear your perspectives, and continue important conversations—especially around property taxes and how they impact families and businesses here at home. Those conversations are always valuable, and I appreciate everyone who took the time to share their thoughts.
This past week also called me back to Tallahassee to vote on redistricting matters, an important responsibility that ensures our community is fairly represented moving forward. Balancing time between the district and the Capitol is never taken lightly, and I’m grateful to serve in both spaces. I even managed to get some amazing family time, and Maggie & I got to enjoy our grandson.
Now that it’s already May, I’m taking a moment to reflect on what an incredible and productive month April was—and I’m looking forward to carrying that momentum into the weeks ahead
Sincerely,
Representative Overdorf |
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CURSIVE SIGNED INTO LAW!!!!
Reading and writing cursive will no longer be a “forgotten” skill in Florida. With help from Dana Trabulsy, cursive instruction is now officially required in Florida public schools for students in grades 3-5.
This matters. How can students read and understand our founding documents if they can’t read cursive? How can they sign their names with confidence? This ensures they can do both. |
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In addition to cursive, I wanted to provide a quick update on where several of our priority bills stand as they move through the final stages of the process:
· Prime Co / Senate Companion 848 – Stormwater Treatment: This legislation, focused on improving water quality and strengthening stormwater infrastructure statewide, has been sent to the Governor and is awaiting final action.
· Prime Co 803 – Building Permits: A bill aimed at streamlining the permitting process and reducing delays for homeowners, contractors, and local governments has been sent to the Governor.
· Prime Co / Senate Companion 1074 – One Cent Piece: This measure addressing the future of the one-cent coin has also been sent to the Governor and is pending final approval.
· Prime Co 1137 – Deductions for Certain Losses on Alcoholic Beverages: This bill, providing relief to businesses by allowing deductions for certain losses, has been signed by the Governor and is now law. |
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Here are some highlights from this month!
What a great opportunity to speak at the SLC TAX EVENT event at Truth Church. It was great to be with so many engaged members of our community to talk about one of the most important issues we’re facing—property taxes.
We had a productive conversation about what’s currently being discussed at the state level, where we’re headed with potential reforms, and what that could mean for families and businesses here in St. Lucie County. Just as important, I appreciated the chance to hear directly from residents about their concerns and priorities.
Thank you to the St. Lucie County Republican Executive Committee for hosting and to everyone who came out to be part of the discussion. Your input is critical as we continue working toward real solutions. |
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Great evening with Club 47 in West Palm Beach. Always a pleasure to be in a room with engaged, thoughtful individuals who care deeply about the direction of our community and our country.
We had strong conversations around the issues that matter most right now, especially property taxes and the impact they’re having on families across our district. I’m grateful for the opportunity to share updates from Tallahassee and, more importantly, to hear directly from everyone in attendance.
A special thank you to Joe Concha for joining as a guest and bringing great insight to the discussion.
These are the kinds of conversations that keep us moving forward, staying connected, informed, and focused on solutions. |
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| I had the opportunity to speak at the Outdoor Camping and RV Association event and discuss the importance of Florida’s outdoor economy, tourism industry, and preserving access to the parks and recreational spaces families enjoy across our state. It was great connecting with industry leaders and outdoor enthusiasts who help make Florida a top destination for camping and RV travel |
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It was great to attend the 12th Annual Leadership Dinner hosted by the Economic Development Council of St. Lucie County alongside so many community leaders and partners. The evening brought together individuals who are deeply invested in the continued growth and success of our region.
From meaningful conversations during the reception to an engaging program recognizing outstanding leadership, it was a strong reminder of the collaboration that drives St. Lucie County forward. Celebrating this year’s Pete Hegener Leadership Award recipient highlighted the impact that dedicated leadership can have on our community.
I always appreciate the opportunity to connect with local business leaders, stakeholders, and residents who are committed to making our area an even better place to live, work, and do business. Looking forward to building on these conversations in the months ahead. |
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It was great joining residents at the Town of Ocean Breeze to talk about one of the most important issues facing our community—property taxes. I appreciated the opportunity to hear directly from so many engaged residents, answer questions, and have a productive conversation about what relief and solutions could look like moving forward.
Thank you to everyone who came out and to the organizers for hosting such a thoughtful discussion. These conversations are exactly why being present in the district matters so much. |
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| Our team had the honor of attending the Martin County Fire Rescue Recruit Graduation for Class #45 at The Grace Place Church. It was an inspiring ceremony recognizing the dedication, discipline, and commitment these recruits have shown throughout their rigorous 12-week training program. We are proud to support and celebrate the men and women who are stepping forward to serve our community. |
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Our team was proud to attend the Martin County Forever Conservation Celebration at Timer Powers Park, recognizing a major milestone in preserving our community’s natural resources. This event highlighted the permanent conservation of more than 2,000 acres through the voter-approved Martin County Forever Land Acquisition Sales Tax, including the newly protected Bar-B Ranch.
Protecting land like this ensures that future generations can continue to enjoy the natural beauty, wildlife, and environmental benefits that make Martin County so special. It’s always encouraging to see our community come together in support of conservation efforts that have a lasting impact.
Grateful to be part of a county that prioritizes smart growth, environmental stewardship, and preserving the spaces that define our way of life. |
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The team was grateful to spend time recognizing the people who make such a difference in our community at the DOH–St. Lucie Annual Volunteer and Partner Appreciation Event at Indian River State College’s Pruitt Campus. This event is always a meaningful reminder of the dedication and heart behind the work being done to support the health and well-being of St. Lucie County residents.
It was great connecting with so many volunteers, partners, and community leaders who continue to show up and serve. Their impact truly does not go unnoticed.
We’re thankful to stand alongside such a strong network of individuals and organizations and look forward to continuing this important work together. |
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Constituent Services
Constituent work continues to be a major focus of our office. This month, we were able to assist an elderly couple who reached out after experiencing issues with their SNAP benefits, leaving them without adequate funds for food. Our team worked directly with DCF to resolve the issue and restore their benefits.
In the meantime, we partnered with incredible community organizations, including the Treasure Coast Food Bank and the local Council on Aging. The Council on Aging was a tremendous partner, helping arrange food delivery to the couple, as they were unable to travel to the food bank due to health concerns.
Moments like this are a powerful reminder of how fortunate we are to have compassionate partners in our community who truly care about taking care of our residents.
Sincerely,
Rep. Toby Overdorf |
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