HomeMy WebLinkAboutItem M2 COUNTY of MONROE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
Mayor Michelle Lincoln,District 2
The Florida Keys Mayor Pro Tem David Rice,District 4
a
e
Craig Cates,District 1
e' Tames K. Scholl,District 3
� Holly Merrill Raschein,District 5
Regular Meeting
January 28, 2026
Agenda Item Number: M2
26-0274
BULK ITEM: Yes DEPARTMENT: District 2
TIME APPROXIMATE: n/a STAFF CONTACT: Kacey Hunt
AGENDA ITEM WORDING: MAYOR LINCOLN: Approval of a resolution of the Monroe
County Board of County Commissioners supporting the designation of Bridge number 900117 on
U.S. 1/S.R. 5 over Niles Channel in Monroe County, FL as the "Jose Wejebe Bridge" and approving
the Florida Department of Transportation erect the appropriate signage reflecting the designation.
ITEM BACKGROUND: Florida State Representative Jim Mooney sponsored a bill to designate
Bridge number 900117 on U.S. 1/S.R. 5 over Niles Channel in Monroe County as "Jose Wejebe
Bridge". That bill became chapter 2025-214, Laws of Florida, which went into effect on July 1, 2025.
The Legislature established the statutory process for naming transportation facilities in memory of an
individual. That process requires the affected local governments to adopt resolutions in support of
such designation. F.S. 334.071.
Jose Wejebe was a long-time resident of Summerland Key. He was a beloved fishing guide, television
host, and outdoor personality who hosted the long-running saltwater fishing show Spanish Fly.
Wejebe was known for his deep knowledge of local waters, his charismatic teaching style, and his
passion for fishing, conservation, and the Florida Keys lifestyle.
In April 2012, Jose Wejebe tragically died in a plane crash shortly after takeoff near Everglades City.
His legacy lives on in the Jose Wejebe Memorial Foundation, a nonprofit based in the Florida Keys
that honors his love of fishing and the environment by providing fishing experiences, promoting
conservation education, and supporting community initiatives.
The Board has adopted similar resolutions in the past. The most recent example was Resolution No.
037-2022, adopted on January 21, 2022, which supported designating the Cow Key Channel Bridge
on U.S. 1/S.R. 5 as the "Cheryl H. Cates Memorial Bridge".
PREVIOUS RELEVANT BOCC ACTION: n/a
INSURANCE REQUIRED: No
CONTRACT/AGREEMENT CHANGES: n/a
STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Approval
DOCUMENTATION:
Jose Wejebe Bridge Resolution
FINANCIAL IMPACT: none
Mayor Lincoln
RESOLUTION NO. -2026
A RESOLUTION OF THE BOARD OF COUNTY
COMMISSIONERS OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
SUPPORTING THE DESIGNATION OF BRIDGE NUMBER
900117 ON U.S. 1/S.R. 5 OVER NILES CHANNEL IN MONROE
COUNTY, FLORIDA AS THE "JOSE WEJEBE BRIDGE" AND
APPROVING THE FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF
TRANSPORTATION ERECT THE APPROPRIATE SIGNAGE
REFLECTING THE DESIGNATION.
WHEREAS, Bridge number 900117, located on U.S. 1/S.R. 5 over Niles Channel, serves
as a critical transportation link within Monroe County and the Florida Keys; and
WHEREAS, Jose Wejebe was a long-time Monroe County resident, internationally
recognized outdoorsman, television host,journalist, and conservation advocate whose work
brought worldwide attention to the Florida Keys and its marine and natural resources; and
WHEREAS, Jose Wejebe, through his nationally televised programs, writings, and
community involvement, educated millions of people about the importance of environmental
stewardship, conservation ethics, and the unique ecological character of the Florida Keys; and
WHEREAS, Jose Wejebe was a passionate supporter of responsible fishing, boating, and
outdoor recreation, and his efforts significantly contributed to public awareness and appreciation
of the region's natural heritage; and
WHEREAS, honoring Jose Wejebe through the designation of Bridge number 9000117
would serve as a lasting tribute to his life, legacy, and enduring connection to Monroe County;
and
WHEREAS, the Legislature established the process for naming transportation facilities in
memory of an induvial when it enacted chapters 99-385 and 2003-286, Laws of Florida, which
are now codified at F.S. 334.071; and
WHEREAS, F.S. 334.071(3) requires each affected local government to adopt a
resolution of support prior to the erection of a marker such as a sign.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED BY THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA:
1. The Board of County Commissioners hereby supports the designation of Bridge number
900117 on U.S. 1/S.R. 5 over Niles Channel in Monroe County, Florida, as the "Jose
Wejebe Bridge."
Page 1 of 2
2. The Board approves and supports the Florida Department of Transportation to erect the
appropriate signage reflecting the "Jose Wej ebe Bridge" designation.
3. The Clerk is hereby authorized to transmit a certified copy of this Resolution to:
a. Governor Ron DeSantis, The Capitol, 400 S. Monroe Street, Tallahassee, FL
32399
b. Florida Senate President Ben Albritton, 409 The Capitol, 404 South Monroe
Street, Tallahassee, FL 32399-1100
c. Speaker of the Florida House Daniel Perez, 420 The Capitol, 402 South Monroe
Street, Tallahassee, FL 32399-1300
d. Florida Department of Transportation Secretary Jared Perdue, 605 Suwannee
Street, MS 57, Tallahassee, FL 32399-0450
e. FDOT District 6 Secretary Daniel Iglesias, 1000 NW I I I th Avenue, Miami, FL
33172
f. State Senator Ana Maria Rodriguez, 410 Senate Building, 404 South Monroe
Street, Tallahassee, FL 32399-1100
g. State Representative James "Jim" Mooney, Jr., 344 The Capitol, 402 South
Monroe Street, Tallahassee, FL 32399-1300.
PASSED AND ADOPTED by the Board of County Commissioners of Monroe County,
Florida at a regular meeting held on January 28th, 2026.
Mayor Michelle Lincoln
Mayor Pro Tem David Rice
Commissioner Craig Cates
Commissioner James K. Scholl
Commissioner Holly Merrill Raschein
(SEAL) BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
Attest: KEVIN MADOK, CLERK OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
By: By:
Deputy Clerk Mayor, Michelle Lincoln
Approved for form and legal sufficiency:
Robert B. Shillinger, Jr.
Monroe County Attorney
Page 2 of 2
Liz Yongue
From: Hunt-Kacey <Hunt-Kacey@MonroeCounty-FL.Gov>
Sent: Tuesday, January 27, 2026 10:49 AM
To: Liz Yongue
Subject: FW: NILES BRIDGE
Hi Liz,
I believe this should be sent to you, to be added for the record.
The initial email is in response to agenda item number M2 (26-0274).
Thankyou,
Kacey Hunt, Executive Assistant
Michelle Lincoln
Mayor
Monroe County, District 2
7280 Overseas Hwy, #2
Marathon, FL 33050
Courier Stop#14A
(305) 292-4512
Monroe County, Florida
"The Florida Keys"
PLEASE NOTE: FLORIDA HAS A VERY BROAD RECORDS LAW. MOST WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS TO OR FROM THE COUNTY
REGARDING COUNTY BUSINESS ARE PUBLIC RECORDS AVAILABLE TO THE PUBLIC AND MEDIA UPON REQUEST. YOUR EMAIL
COMMUNICATION MAY BE SUBJECT TO PUBLIC DISCLOSURE.
From: Lincoln-Michelle<Lincoln-Michelle@ Mon roecounty-FL.Gov>
Sent:Tuesday,January 27, 2026 10:31 AM
To: Sonia Niles<gsniles98@gmail.com>
Cc: Hunt-Kacey<Hunt-Kacey@ Mon roeCounty-FL.Gov>
Subject: RE: NILES BRIDGE
Dear George Niles,
Thankyou foryour correspondence regarding the recent resolution concerning the bridge crossing Niles Channel. I
would like to clarify that the channel will continue to be officially known as"Niles Channel,"and all existing
signage reflecting that designation will remain unchanged.There is no proposal to rename or alter the channel in
any way.
i
The resolution addresses only the bridge structure itself,which has not previously been formally named.The
designation of the"Jose Wejebe Bridge" is intended to recognize Mr.Wejebe's service and contributions to the
community,while fully preserving the Niles name and legacy associated with the channel. Our intent is to
respectfully recognize both the Niles Family's lasting impact on the community and Jose Wejebe's individual
contributions,and I sincerely hope this clarification helps ease some concern.
Please feel free to contact me if you have any additional questions or would like to discuss this matter further.
Sincerely,
Michelle Lincoln
Mayor
Monroe County BOCC
District 2
7280 Overseas Hwy,#2
Marathon, FL 33050
(305)292-4512 (Office)
(305)360-7666(Cell Phone)
i"
PLEASE NOTE: FLORIDA HAS A VERY BROAD RECORDS LAW. MOST WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS TO OR FROM THE COUNTY
REGARDING COUNTY BUSINESS ARE PUBLIC RECORDS AVAILABLE TO THE PUBLIC AND MEDIA UPON REQUEST. YOUR EMAIL
COMMUNICATION MAYBE SUBJECT TO PUBLIC DISCLOSURE.
From: Sonia Niles< sniles98 .ma.il.e_caa >
Sent: Monday,January 26, 2026 9:18 PM
To: BOCCDIS2<bo ds BOCCDIS4 BOCCDIS5c _
<BOCCDIISS( IMaanraa Caa�anty-FL.Gov>; Cates-Craig<C�t s..-C.r i e MonroeCounty-FL.Gov>; BOCCDIS3
<BOCCDIIS3( IMaanraaCaa�anty-FL.Gov>
Subject: NILES BRIDGE
Some people who received this message don't often get email from gsni1es9£@grnail.com. Learn why this is important
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Commissioner's. My name is George Niles and I am contacting you regarding the January 28
agenda item M2, the renaming of the Niles Channel Bridge, to the Jose Wejebe Bridge. The Niles
family has a long history in Monroe County dating back to the 18th century; the first chief of
police of Key West was Grover Cleveland Niles, who later became sheriff of Monroe County.
One of my Niles ancestors, Mr. Warren Niles, owned most of Summerland Key in the early 19th
century, which is adjacent to Niles channel Bridge. My father, William (Billy) Niles built his home
on Summerland Key in 1960 He was the fifth house on the island at the time and still lives there
today. There are still three Niles families living on Summerland Key today, with three current
generations of Niles, including my family having purchased my home there in 1989 . The Niles
family is one of the original conch families and can trace their heritage back almost 2 centuries
2
in Monroe County, and we are related to most of the original conch families. Our family is very
proud to have one of the overseas highways bridges named after us, and we are vehemently
opposed to the renaming of our families historic landmark. We have nothing against Mr. Jose
Wejebe, but please choose something else to name after him . Thank you, Mr. George Niles
3
Liz Yongue
From: Hunt-Kacey <Hunt-Kacey@MonroeCounty-FL.Gov>
Sent: Tuesday, January 27, 2026 10:50 AM
To: Liz Yongue
Subject: FW:January 28 Agenda Item M2— Proposed Renaming of Niles Channel Bridge
Liz,
Another one for the record. The initial email is in response to agenda item number M2 (26-0274).
Thankyou,
Kacey Fount, Executive Assistant
Michelle Lincoln
Mayor
Monroe County, District 2
7280 Overseas Hwy, #2
Marathon, FL 33050
Courier Stop#14A
(305) 292-4512
Monroe County, Florida
"The Florida Keys"
PLEASE NOTE: FLORIDA HAS A VERY BROAD RECORDS LAW. MOST WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS TO OR FROM THE COUNTY
REGARDING COUNTY BUSINESS ARE PUBLIC RECORDS AVAILABLE TO THE PUBLIC AND MEDIA UPON REQUEST. YOUR EMAIL
COMMUNICATION MAY BE SUBJECT TO PUBLIC DISCLOSURE.
From: Lincoln-Michelle<Lincoln-Michelle@ Mon roecounty-FL.Gov>
Sent:Tuesday,January 27, 2026 10:32 AM
To: Deborah Martin <dmartin9396@gmail.com>
Cc: Hunt-Kacey<Hunt-Kacey@ Mon roeCounty-FL.Gov>
Subject: RE:January 28 Agenda Item M2—Proposed Renaming of Niles Channel Bridge
Dear Deborah Niles-Martin,
Thankyou foryour correspondence regardingthe recent resolution concerningthe bridge crossing Niles Channel. I
would like to clarify that the channel will continue to be officially known as"Niles Channel,"and all existing
signage reflecting that designation will remain unchanged.There is no proposal to rename or alter the channel in
any way.
The resolution addresses only the bridge structure itself,which has not previously been formally named.The
designation of the"Jose Wejebe Bridge" is intended to recognize Mr.Wejebe's service and contributions to the
1
community,while fully preserving the Niles name and legacy associated with the channel. Our intent is to
respectfully recognize both the Niles Family's lasting impact on the community and Jose Wejebe's individual
contributions,and I sincerely hope this clarification helps ease some concern.
Please feel free to contact me if you have any additional questions or would like to discuss this matter further.
Sincerely,
Michelle Lincoln
Mayor
Monroe County BOCC
District 2
7280 Overseas Hwy,#2
Marathon, FL 33050
(305)292-4512 (Office)
(305)360-7666(Cell Phone)
i"
PLEASE NOTE: FLORIDA HAS A VERY BROAD RECORDS LAW. MOST WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS TO OR FROM THE COUNTY
REGARDING COUNTY BUSINESS ARE PUBLIC RECORDS AVAILABLE TO THE PUBLIC AND MEDIA UPON REQUEST. YOUR EMAIL
COMMUNICATION MAYBE SUBJECT TO PUBLIC DISCLOSURE.
From: Deborah Martin <dmartin 3_6.2gmail.com>
Sent: Monday,January 26, 2026 9:53 PM
To: Cates-Craig<Cans-Cr i (�MonroeCounty-FL.Gov>; BOCCDIS2< aaccdis2( rn¢anr¢a c¢a�ant -fl. ov>; BOCCDIS3
<BOC BOCCDIS4<BOCCDIIS C(2.Ma.!2.E g 2.Lan1y-FL.Gov>; BOCCDIS5
<BOCCDIISS( IM¢anr¢anC¢a�anty-FL.tSov>
Subject:January 28 Agenda Item M2—Proposed Renaming of Niles Channel Bridge
Some people who received this message don't often get email from dmartin9396@grnai1.com. Learn why this is important
CAUTION:This email originated from outside of the County. Whether you know the sender or not, do not click links or
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CommissionerS,
My name is Deborah Niles-Martin, and I am writing to you regarding the January 28 agenda item M2,
which proposes renaming the Niles Channel Bridge to the Jose Wejebe Bridge.
The Niles family has a deep and longstanding history in Monroe County dating back to the 18th century.
One of our ancestors, Grover Cleveland Niles, served as the first Chief of Police of Key West and later
became Sheriff of Monroe County.Another ancestor,Warren Niles, owned much of Summerland Key in
the early 19th century—land directly adjacent to the Niles Channel Bridge.
2
In 1960, my father,William C. Niles, personally built his home on Summerland Key, which at that time
was only the fifth house on the island. He continues to reside in the original home he constructed. Today,
three Niles families live on Summerland Key, representing three generations, including myself, my father,
and my brother and his family.
The Niles family is one of the original Conch families and can trace our heritage in Monroe County back
nearly two centuries.We are also related to many of the area's original Conch families, further
demonstrating the deep roots our family has within this community. Our family has always taken great
pride in having one of the Overseas Highway's bridges named in recognition of that history. It is a legacy I
am now beginning to share with my three-year-old grandson, who is a seventh-generation Conch on both
sides of his family. Notably, the other side of his family is also recognized locally, with both a road and a
school bearing their family name.
As you are likely aware, original Conch families and their descendants are becoming increasingly rare in
our community. For that reason, preserving—not replacing—their history and heritage is critically
important. The preservation of our community's original roots is the primary reason we are strongly
opposed to the renaming of the Niles Channel Bridge.
While we hold no objection to honoring Mr. Jose Wejebe and fully respect his legacy, we respectfully
request that another landmark or facility be selected for that recognition rather than removingthe
historic name associated with one of the community's original families. Given that the Jose Wejebe
Spanish Fly Memorial Foundation is located on Big Pine Key, we suggest that a bridge connecting to Big
Pine Key or a building in that area be considered as an alternative.
Thankyou foryour time and thoughtful consideration of this matter.
Respectfully,
Deborah Niles-Martin
r
0a
3
Liz Yongue
From: Hunt-Kacey <Hunt-Kacey@MonroeCounty-FL.Gov>
Sent: Tuesday, January 27, 2026 10:51 AM
To: Liz Yongue
Subject: FW: Niles Bridge Renaming
Hi Liz,
This is also for the record, in response to agenda item number M2 (26-0274).
Thank you,
Kacey Hunt, Executive Assistant
Michelle Lincoln
Mayor
Monroe County, District 2
7280 Overseas Hwy,#2
Marathon, FL 33050
Courier Stop#14A
(305) 292-4512
Monroe County, Florida
"The Florida Keys"
PLEASE NOTE: FLORIDA HAS A VERY BROAD RECORDS LAW. MOST WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS TO OR FROM THE
COUNTY REGARDING COUNTY BUSINESS ARE PUBLIC RECORDS AVAILABLE TO THE PUBLIC AND MEDIA UPON
REQUEST. YOUR EMAIL COMMUNICATION MAY BE SUBJECTTO PUBLIC DISCLOSURE.
-----Original Message-----
From: Lincoln-Michelle
Sent:Tuesday,January 27, 2026 10:34 AM
To:Angela Niles<angela.niles@aol.com>
Subject: RE: Niles Bridge Renaming
Dear Angela Niles,
Thank you for your correspondence regarding the recent resolution concerning the bridge crossing Niles Channel. I
would like to clarify that the channel will continue to be officially known as "Niles Channel;' and all existing signage
reflecting that designation will remain unchanged.There is no proposal to rename or alter the channel in any way.
The resolution addresses only the bridge structure itself,which has not previously been formally named.The designation
of the "Jose Wejebe Bridge" is intended to recognize Mr. Wejebe's service and contributions to the community,while
fully preserving the Niles name and legacy associated with the channel. Our intent is to respectfully recognize both the
Niles Family's lasting impact on the community and Jose Wejebe's individual contributions, and I sincerely hope this
clarification helps ease some concern.
Please feel free to contact me if you have any additional questions or would like to discuss this matter further.
1
Sincerely,
Michelle Lincoln
Mayor
Monroe County BOCC
District 2
7280 Overseas Hwy,#2
Marathon, FL 33050
(305)292-4512 (Office)
(305)360-7666(Cell Phone)
PLEASE NOTE: FLORIDA HAS A VERY BROAD RECORDS LAW. MOST WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS TO OR FROM THE
COUNTY REGARDING COUNTY BUSINESS ARE PUBLIC RECORDS AVAILABLE TO THE PUBLIC AND MEDIA UPON
REQUEST. YOUR EMAIL COMMUNICATION MAY BE SUBJECTTO PUBLIC DISCLOSURE.
-----Original Message-----
From:Angela Niles<angela.niles@aol.com>
Sent: Monday,January 26, 2026 10:58 PM
To: Cates-Craig<Cates-Craig@ Mon roeCou nty-FL.Gov>; BOCCDIS2<boccdis2@monroecounty-fl.gov>; BOCCDIS3
<BOCCDIS3@ Mon roeCounty-FL.Gov>; BOCCDIS4<BOCCDIS4@ Mon roeCounty-FL.Gov>; BOCCDIS5
<BOCCDISS@ Mon roeCou nty-FL.Gov>
Subject: Niles Bridge Renaming
[Some people who received this message don't often get email from angela.niles@aol.com. Learn why this is important
at https://aka.ms/LearnAboutSenderidentification j
CAUTION:This email originated from outside of the County. Whether you know the sender or not, do not click links or
open attachments you were not expecting.
Dear Commissioners,
My name is Angela Niles and I am a 6th generation conch. I am writing to respectfully express my opposition to the
proposed renaming of Niles Bridge.
My family has lived in Monroe County for generations, and the Niles name has long been tied specifically to Summerland
Key and the surrounding area. For us, the name of the bridge is not simply a designation on a map — it represents a
deep and enduring connection to this community and to the people who have called it home long before much of the
development that exists today.
My grandfather built his home on Summerland Key in 1960, and my father later built his home in the 1980s,just two
doors down. Both my grandfather and my father still live there today, continuing a family presence that spans decades.
By the time others arrived in the area, our family was already firmly rooted on Summerland Key,with Niles family
members living and working in Monroe County well before my great-grandfather's generation.This longstanding history
is an important part of why the bridge bears our family name and why that name holds such local significance.
In addition to our history here, my family has always tried to be pillars of the community through action and service. My
parents ran the local junior softball league for many years, sacrificing countless weekends and long nights to give back,
sometimes even taking time off from their jobs to take care of league matters. I also intend to run the softball league
myself once I have children and a family of my own.
2
My family has also volunteered annually at the Florida Keys Seafood Festival since its earliest years, and consistently
supported local sporting events. We are especially proud that some of the proceeds from the Seafood Festival,which is
celebrating its 20th year anniversary, helps fund scholarships for high school students across schools up and down the
keys, and that our volunteer efforts have helped give back to the next generation.
During major hurricanes and catastrophic storms on that have hit Summerland Key,when flash flooding made conditions
unsafe and homes were taking on 6+feet of water,we have opened our doors to neighbors during the storm itself so
they could shelter safely with us. After the storm, we have worked side by side with neighbors to rebuild their homes,
clear debris, and restore the community.These storms have caused real harm to Summerland Key, and helping one
another through them has always been a central part of our family's role in the community.
I would also like to respectfully note that Mr.Jose Wejebe originally settled in Big Pine Key when he came to the Florida
keys, only moving to Summerland Key later. I share this not to diminish his contributions, but to emphasize the
geographic and historical connection between the Niles family and the specific location Niles Bridge serves.
Mr. Wejebe was widely known for his love of fishing and his television show,which brought attention to the Florida Keys.
While my family has never had a television platform,the Niles family has been connected to these waters for far longer,
with a documented presence in Monroe County dating back well before the 19th century. Our fishing heritage spans
many generations — from earlier Niles ancestors through my great-grandfather,grandfather,father, and now my brother
— all of whom lived and worked on these waters long before Mr. Wejebe's arrival in the area.
Niles Bridge is a quiet but meaningful acknowledgment of that legacy. It reflects the perseverance, commitment, and
sacrifices of earlier generations. Removing the name feels like erasing a piece of local history that cannot be replaced
once it is gone.
I want to be very clear that this message is not intended as opposition to honoring Mr. Wejebe. He was widely respected,
and I fully support recognizing his legacy. I simply believe there are alternatives that would allow his contributions to be
honored without removing an existing name that already carries deep historical and geographic significance.
Once a historic name is changed, it is rarely restored. I respectfully ask you to consider the precedent this sets and the
message it sends to families who have lived,worked,volunteered, and helped rebuild Summerland Key for generations.
Our history should be preserved and added to — not replaced.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Angela Niles
3
Liz Yongue
From: Gomez-Krystal <Gomez-Krystal@MonroeCounty-FL.Gov>
Sent: Tuesday, January 27, 2026 2:41 PM
To: Ballard-Lindsey; County Commissioners and Aides; Kevin Madok; Pamela G. Hancock;
Senior Management Team and Aides; Liz Yongue; InternalAudit; Agenda Item Review
Team
Cc: Shillinger-Bob; Williams-Jethon; Cioffari-Cheryl; Livengood-Kristen; Rubio-Suzanne;
Pam Radloff; County-Attorney; Allen-John; Danise Henriquez; Hurley-Christine; Rosch-
Mark; Gambuzza-Dina; Beyers-John; InternalAudit; Kevin Madok; Valcheva-Svilena;
Powell-Barbara; Guerra-Cynthia; Brynn Morey
Subject: Item M2 BOCC 01/28/2026 REVISED BACKUP
Attachments: Jose Wejebe Bridge Bill HB177.pdf, AIS 0274.docx
Good afternoon,
Please be advised that the backup for the M2 agenda item has been revised.
"MAYOR LINCOLN:Approval of a resolution of the Monroe County Board of County Commissioners
supporting the designation ofBridge number 900117 on U.S. 1/SR. S over Niles Channel in Monroe County, FL
as the "Jose Wejebe Bridge"and approving the Florida Department of Transportation erect the appropriate
signage reflecting the designation. "
Sincerely,
Executive Administrator
Monroe County Administrator's Office
1100 Simonton Street, Suite 2-205
Key West, FL 33040
(305)292-4441 (Office)
(305)850-8694(Cell)
Courier Stop#1
Notary Public
w.r o n r y e c_ u�n1y:�:V_e.gpy
i».c z..- Y .�.. _rn groecou�_n�.Y..-.�..:.i» .Y.
PLEASE NOTE: FLORIDA HAS A VERY BROAD RECORDS LAW. MOST WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS TO OR FROM THE COUNTY REGARDING COUNTY BUSINESS
ARE PUBLIC RECORDS AVAILABLE TO THE PUBLIC AND MEDIA UPON REQUEST. YOUR EMAIL COMMUNICATION MAY BE SUBJECT TO PUBLIC DISCLOSURE.
1
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
COUNTY of MONROE
! Mayor Michelle Lincoln,District 2
The Florida Keys m Mayor Pro Tem David Rice,District 4
Craig Cates,District 1
James K. Scholl,District 3
Holly Merrill Raschein,District 5
Regular Meeting
January 28, 2026
Agenda Item Number: {{section.number}}{{item.number}}
26-0274
BULK ITEM: Yes DEPARTMENT: District 2
TIME APPROXIMATE: n/a STAFF CONTACT: Kacey Hunt
AGENDA ITEM WORDING: MAYOR LINCOLN: Approval of a resolution of the Monroe County
Board of County Commissioners supporting the designation of Bridge number 900117 on U.S. 1/S.R.
5 over Niles Channel in Monroe County, FL as the "Jose Wejebe Bridge" and approving the Florida
Department of Transportation erect the appropriate signage reflecting the designation.
ITEM BACKGROUND: Florida State Representative Jim Mooney sponsored a bill to designate
Bridge number 900117 on U.S. 1/S.R. 5 over Niles Channel in Monroe County as "Jose Wejebe
Bridge". That bill became chapter 2025-214, Laws of Florida, which went into effect on July 1, 2025.
The Legislature established the statutory process for naming transportation facilities in memory of an
individual. That process requires the affected local governments to adopt resolutions in support of
such designation. F.S. 334.071.
Jose Wejebe was a long-time resident of Summerland Key. He was a beloved fishing guide, television
host, and outdoor personality who hosted the long-running saltwater fishing show Spanish Fly. Wejebe
was known for his deep knowledge of local waters, his charismatic teaching style, and his passion for
fishing, conservation, and the Florida Keys lifestyle.
In April 2012, Jose Wejebe tragically died in a plane crash shortly after takeoff near Everglades City.
His legacy lives on in the Jose Wejebe Memorial Foundation, a nonprofit based in the Florida Keys
that honors his love of fishing and the environment by providing fishing experiences, promoting
conservation education, and supporting community initiatives.
The Board has adopted similar resolutions in the past. The most recent example was Resolution No.
037-2022, adopted on January 21, 2022, which supported designating the Cow Key Channel Bridge
on U.S. 1/S.R. 5 as the "Cheryl H. Cates Memorial Bridge".
PREVIOUS RELEVANT BOCC ACTION: n/a
INSURANCE REQUIRED: No
CONTRACT/AGREEMENT CHANGES: n/a
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:Approval
DOCUMENTATION:
Jose Wejebe Bridge Resolution
FINANCIAL IMPACT: none
F L O R I D A H O U S E O F R E P R E S E N T A T I V E S
CS/CS/HB 177 2025
1 A bill to be entitled
2 An act relating to transportation facility
3 designations; providing honorary designations of
4 certain transportation facilities in specified
5 counties; directing the Department of Transportation
6 to erect suitable markers; providing an effective
7 date .
8
9 Be It Enacted by the Legislature of the State of Florida:
10
11 Section 1 . Transportation facility designations;
12 Department of Transportation to erect suitable markers .-
13 (1) That portion of International Drive between S .R. 528
14 and Sand Lake Road in Orange County is designated as "Harris
15 Rosen Way. "
16 (2) The bridge on Moncrief Road West over the Ribault
17 River in Duval County is designated as "Bernard Wilkes Ribault
18 River Bridge . "
19 (3) That portion of W. South Street between S . Division
20 Avenue and U. S . 441 in Orange County is designated as "Geraldine
21 Thompson Way. "
22 (4) That portion of W. Beaver Street/S .R. 10 between King
23 Street and Acorn Street in Duval County is designated as "Harry
24 Frisch Street . "
25 (5) Bridge number 900117 on U. S . 1/S .R. 5 over Niles
Page 1 of 2
CODING: Words SA11 en are deletions; words underlined are additions.
hb177-02-c2
F L O R I D A H O U S E O F R E P R E S E N T A T I V E S
CS/CS/HB 177 2025
26 Channel in Monroe County is designated as "Jose Wejebe Bridge . "
27 (6) That portion of S .R. 932/N.W. 103rd Street/W. 49th
28 Street within the City of Hialeah in Miami-Dade County is
29 designated as "Celia Cruz Way. "
30 (7) That portion of S .R. 915/N.E . 6th Avenue between S .R.
31 860 and S .R. 826 in Miami-Dade County is designated as
32 "Toussaint L ' Ouverture Boulevard. "
33 (8) That portion of S .W. 58th Street between S .R. 985/S .W.
34 107th Avenue and S .W. 102nd Avenue in Miami-Dade County is
35 designated as "Sonia Castro Way. "
36 (9) The Department of Transportation is directed to erect
37 suitable markers designating the transportation facilities as
38 described in this section.
39 Section 2 . This act shall take effect July 1, 2025 .
Page 2 of 2
CODING: Words SA11 en are deletions; words underlined are additions.
hb177-02-c2
Liz Yongue
From: Hurley-Christine <Hurley-Christine@ Mon roeCounty-FL.Gov>
Sent: Tuesday, January 27, 2026 5:42 PM
To: Gomez-Krystal; Ballard-Lindsey; Senior Management Team and Aides; Allen-John;
County Commissioners and Aides; County-Attorney; Liz Yongue; Kevin Madok;
Agenda Item Review Team
Cc: Shillinger-Bob; Tamborski-Cheri; Rubio-Suzanne; Moeller-Mary; Proffitt-Maureen;
Gambuzza-Dina; Liz Yongue; Tolpin-Devin; InternalAudit; Pam Radloff; Cioffari-Cheryl;
Valcheva-Svilena; Beyers-John; Guerra-Cynthia; Powell-Barbara; Brynn Morey; Brynn
Morey
Subject: RE: ATTACHED COPY OF PUBLISHED BOCC 01/28/2026 AGENDA DOCUMENTS
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Flagged
Commissioners and others. Mayor Lincoln has requested this item be removed from the agenda tomorrow
morning. Originally,State Representative Jim Mooney requested the item. Based on many emails we've received
in the past several days, Rep Mooney asked us to pull the item off the agenda to allow more time to gather
additional information.
Commissioners supporting the designation ot 115"ridge ni
Chann 1 its Monroe C ounty, FL as the "Jose W ji
Department o Transportation erect the .ppr op
RLVISLD BACK-UP.
Christine Hurley,AICP
Monroe County(Florida Keys)Administrator
1100 Simonton Street
Key West, Florida, 33040
From: Gomez-Krystal <Gomez-KrystaI@ Mon roeCounty-FL.Gov>
Sent:Tuesday,January 27, 2026 3:55 PM
To: Ballard-Lindsey<Ballard-Lindsey@ Mon roeCounty-FL.Gov>; Senior Management Team and Aides
<Senior_Management_Team_and_Aides@ Mon roecounty-fl.gov>;Allen-John <Allen-John@MonroeCounty-FL.Gov>;
County Commissioners and Aides<County_Commissioners2@monroecounty-fl.gov>; County_Attorney
<Cou nty_Attorney@ Mon roeCou nty-FL.Gov>; Liz Yongue<eyongue@monroe-clerk.com>; Kevin Madok
<kmadok@ Mon roe-Clerk.Com>;Agenda Item Review Team <Agenda_Item_Review_Team@MonroeCounty-FL.Gov>
Cc: Shillinger-Bob<ShiIIinger-Bob@ Mon roeCounty-FL.Gov>;Tamborski-Cheri <Tamborski-Cheri@MonroeCounty-
FL.Gov>; Rubio-Suzanne<Rubio-Suzanne@ Mon roeCounty-FL.Gov>; Moeller-Mary<Moeller-Mary@monroecounty-
fl.gov>; Proffitt-Maureen <Proffitt-Maureen@MonroeCounty-FL.Gov>; Hurley-Christine<Hurley-
1
Christine@MonroeCounty-FL.Gov>; Gambuzza-Dina <Gambuzza-Dina@MonroeCounty-FL.Gov>; Liz Yongue
<eyongue@monroe-clerk.com>;Tolpin-Devin <Tolpin-Devin@MonroeCounty-FL.Gov>;
'InternalAudit@monroeclerkFL.onmicrosoft.com' <InternalAudit@monroeclerkFL.onmicrosoft.com>; Pam Radloff
<pradloff@monroe-clerk.com>; Cioffari-Cheryl <Cioffari-Cheryl@MonroeCounty-FL.Gov>;Valcheva-Svilena <Valcheva-
Svilena@MonroeCounty-FL.Gov>; Beyers-John <Beyers-John@MonroeCounty-FL.Gov>; Guerra-Cynthia <Guerra-
Cynthia@ Mon roeCounty-FL.Gov>; Powell-Barbara <Powell-Barbara@MonroeCounty-FL.Gov>; 'bmorey@monroe-
clerk.com' <bmorey@monroe-clerk.com>; Brynn Morey<bmorey@monroe-clerk.com>
Subject:ATTACHED COPY OF PUBLISHED BOCC 01/28/2026 AGENDA DOCUMENTS
Good afternoon,
Please see the attached Meeting Agenda, Additions, Corrections & Deletions sheet along with the Time Approximate
Sheet for the 01/28/2026 BOCC Meeting.
PLEASE NOTE:The BOCC 01/28/2026 BOCC Meeting will be a hybrid format with the County Commission meeting live at
the Marathon Government Center.The public will be able to participate via Communications Media Technology("CMT")
using a Zoom Webinar platform. Live links to the Zoom webinar are embedded in the published Agenda and the Public
Notice provided on Page 1 of the published agenda provides detailed instructions developed to ensure public
accessibility, input, and participation for the public portion of the meeting.
.web format on Web Portal: .Monroe Count. FL-GranicuS Content
Sincerely,
)v,rystaz crovuez
Executive Administrator
Monroe County Administrator's Office
1100 Simonton Street,Suite 2-20S
Key West, FL 33040
Office:30S-292-4441
Cell:30S-8SO-8694
Courier Stop#1
Notary Public
.rrioriror:co� ,iirrty-f1..gov
gori"iez.-kryst,�1.@ri"ioriroeco�,,iirity..-fl..gov
PLEASE NOTE: FLORIDA HAS A VERY BROAD RECORDS LAW. MOST WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS TO OR FROM THE COUNTY REGARDING COUNTY BUSINESS
ARE PUBLIC RECORDS AVAILABLE TO THE PUBLIC AND MEDIA UPON REQUEST. YOUR EMAIL COMMUNICATION MAY BE SUBJECT TO PUBLIC DISCLOSURE.
2