🟣 PSL Tax Rate Drops, Rotary Expands & Harbor Freight Opens Soon

Welcome to this week’s edition of The Connection!

From Port St. Lucie’s budget and tax plans to the launch of a new Rotary Club in Vero Beach and Harbor Freight’s fifth Treasure Coast location, we’ve got plenty of local updates. Add in upcoming networking events, a veteran-focused festival, and this week’s nonprofit spotlight on Mustard Seed Ministries — and you’ll see why staying connected matters.

Nicholas, Michelle, and Danny
Co-Founders, Port St. Lucie Business Club

The City Council approved a preliminary 4.975 millage rate, down from past years and marking the first dip below 5 mills in recent memory. While the rate has dropped, rising property values mean most homeowners will still see higher bills. The proposed $869.8M budget includes over $221M in capital projects. Final approval is set for Sept. 22 at 5:30pm.

As of July 14, Rotary International has officially recognized the Vero Beach Sunset Rotary Club. The group, part of District 6930, will meet twice monthly at Mangrove Sands Bar & Grill, welcoming visitors and prospective members. The new club joins a worldwide network of 1.4M Rotarians focused on service, leadership, and global impact.

Tool retailer Harbor Freight will open its 5th Treasure Coast location this November at 2125 S. Federal Hwy., Fort Pierce in Gateway Plaza. The company cites community demand and local workforce strength as reasons for choosing Fort Pierce. Stores already operate in Jensen Beach, Sebastian, Stuart, and Vero Beach.

Tuesday, Sept. 23, 8:15-9:15am at The Saints Golf Course, PSL. Enjoy breakfast with a welcoming community of professionals. RSVP required.

RSVP to Business Bowl & Breakfast

Wednesday, Sept. 24, 8:15-9:15am at Port St. Lucie Community Center. Bring your business cards and your best 45-second pitch. $5 cash (includes muffin & coffee). Free for first-time guests!

Join the Shameless Promotion & Muffins Facebook Group

Saturday, Sept. 27, 10am-3 pm at IRSC, Fort Pierce. Honor 9/11 and GWOT veterans with a 3.43-mile ruck march, guest speakers, K9 demo, JROTC competition, music, food trucks, and more. Free entry; donations of food, hygiene items, and supplies encouraged. Proceeds benefit local veteran programs.

Get more details about the Festival & Ruck and RSVP

NOTE: We not responsible for changes, cancellations, or inaccuracies. For the latest updates, please check with the hosting organization.

At Finish Strong CPR & Medical Training, our mission is to build confident teams and compliant workplaces. With 25+ years of experience, we are proud to be a woman-owned and operated business. Our instructors—seasoned in EMS and education—deliver engaging, team-centered training and provide vital safety equipment. We go beyond certifications, making sure every participant feels supported, capable, and truly ready to respond when it matters most.

Visit www.finishstrongcpr.com for more information.

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Since 1986, Mustard Seed has been a safety net for St. Lucie County residents in crisis. With food pantries, rent and utility assistance, free furniture, and medical care vouchers, the nonprofit meets both material and spiritual needs. Two thrift stores help fund the mission, and volunteers embody the belief that even “faith as small as a mustard seed” can move mountains.

 👉 Want to help? Learn more or donate at mustardseedslc.org.

Want to reach 3,200+ local business owners? The Connection offers sponsorship opportunities for businesses ready to connect with Treasure Coast professionals. Interested? Learn more at pslbusinessclub.com/sponsorships.

We’d love your feedback on this week’s newsletter. Just hit reply and let us know what you think.

Tuesday, October 21st at 6pm
Crane Club at Tesoro
2000 SE Via Tesoro, Port St. Lucie, FL 34984

More info, dress code details, and the Facebook event page coming soon!