HomeMy WebLinkAboutItem B3 COUNTY of MONROE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
� Mayor Michelle Lincoln,District 2
The Florida Keys Mayor Pro Tern David Rice,District 4
y Craig Cates,District 1
James K. Scholl,District 3
� «
Holly Merrill Raschein,District 5
Regular Meeting
April 15, 2026
Agenda Item Number: B3
26-0778
BULK ITEM: Yes DEPARTMENT: District 2
TIME APPROXIMATE: STAFF CONTACT: Kacey Hunt 305-292-4512
AGENDA ITEM WORDING: Mayor's Proclamation celebrating the 40th Anniversary of the Turtle
Hospital in Marathon, FL.
ITEM BACKGROUND: The Turtle Hospital in Marathon, FL is celebrating its 40th anniversary of
rescuing, rehabilitating, and releasing sea turtles. Considered the world's first licensed veterinary
hospital for sea turtles, the Turtle Hospital was founded by Richie Moretti in 1986 when he
transformed the Hidden Harbor Motel into a turtle rescue center. This milestone anniversary
highlights four decades of dedication to preserving threatened and endangered sea turtle populations
and underscores the organization's lasting impact on the community and coastal ecosystem.
PREVIOUS RELEVANT BOCC ACTION: n/a
INSURANCE REQUIRED: No
CONTRACT/AGREEMENT CHANGES: n/a
STAFF RECOMMENDATION: It is requested that the BOCC formally recognize and celebrate the
40th anniversary of the Turtle Hospital, honoring their four decades of leadership in sea turtle rescue,
rehabilitation, and conservation in the Florida Keys.
DOCUMENTATION:
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
Effective Date:
Expiration Date:
Total Dollar Value of Contract:
Total Cost to County:
Current Year Portion:
Budgeted:
Source of Funds:
CPI:
Indirect Costs:
Estimated Ongoing Costs Not Included in above dollar amounts:
Revenue Producing: If yes, amount:
Grant:
County Match:
Insurance Required:
Mayor's Proclamation celebratingt ivs the Turtle Hospitalin Marathon,
.
Mayor's Proclamation
Celebrating the 40th Anniversary of the Turtle Hospital
WHEREAS, the Turtle Hospital, located in Marathon, FL has dedicated four decades to the
rescue, rehabilitation, and release of injured and endangered sea turtles, serving as a global
model for marine conservation and education; and
WHEREAS, since its founding, the hospital has treated thousands of sea turtles suffering from
injuries related to boating accidents, fishing line entanglement, habitat loss, and disease, giving
these remarkable animals a second chance at life in their natural environment; and
WHEREAS, the hospital has also played a vital role in public education, welcoming visitors
from around the world to learn about marine ecosystems, conservation efforts, and the
importance of protecting our oceans for future generations; and
WHEREAS, the success and longevity of the hospital is a testament to the vision, leadership,
and unwavering commitment of its founder, Richie Moretti, whose passion for marine life has
inspired countless individuals and organizations to support sea turtle conservation; and
WHEREAS, over the past 40 years, the hospital has become a cherished institution within the
Florida Keys community and beyond, fostering environmental stewardship and demonstrating
the power of compassion, science, and community collaboration;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT PROCLAIMED that I, Michelle Lincoln, Mayor of Monroe
County, Florida, on behalf of the Board of County Commissioners and the citizens of Monroe
County, do hereby recognize and celebrate
The 401h Anniversaryof The Turtle Hospital
BE IT FURTHER PROCLAIMED that Monroe County would like to commend the staff,
volunteers, and supporters for their extraordinary contributions to wildlife conservation, and that
all residents are encouraged to join in recognizing this milestone and to continue supporting
efforts to protect and preserve our precious marine resources.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, this proclamation is hereby issued this 8th day of April, 2026.
Michelle Lincoln, Mayor