PORT ST. LUCIE — One year ago, a 6-year-old autistic boy was brought to the front of his classroom. He left moments later feeling like an outcast.

For many, he became a symbol of how children with autism are mistreated and misunderstood.

Some experts say the case of Alex Barton, who was voted out of his kindergarten classroom 14-to-2, brought about change and awareness of how autistic children are educated. Others say there still is a long way to go. (more…)

STUART — A constitutional challenge is prompting the Martin County commissioners to rethink a strict noise ordinance they enacted in February to crack down on loud music at bars and other businesses.

Deanna Kernan, the owner of the Martin Downs Sports Resort in Palm City, and Susan Masterson, the resort’s manager, have asked a county judge to declare the noise ordinance unconstitutional because it is “overbroad.”

Kernan, 42, of Palm City, and Masterson, 39, of Stuart, also have asked Judge Stewart Hershey to dismiss the misdemeanor charge they violated the county’s noise ordinance because music from the resort could be heard more than 150 feet away. (more…)

STUART — Martin County Commissioner Susan Valliere said Tuesday she decided to seek a third four-year term to provide a “centrist” voice on a commission often divided on the growth issue.

“A centrist philosophy has been my goal for, at least, the past five years,” Valliere said in a prepared statement. “Carrying out my work of attempting to transform the too-long-waged battle between ‘no-growth’ and ‘pro-growth’ extremists into a more centrist ideal for Martin County is at the heart of the reasons I am seeking a third term.”
(more…)

STUART — To contend with the ongoing budgetary uncertainties facing local governments, Stuart City commissioners Monday unanimously approved an early retirement incentive package for city workers.

In addition to regular retirement benefits, city employees who would be eligible for retirement by Sept. 30 can opt to receive 36 months of paid insurance at their current coverage and premium level or a lump-sum, before-tax payout of $20,000, said Stuart City Manager Dan Hudson.
(more…)

Before you turn on that sprinkler, check the time, check the date and check over your shoulder.

The water management districts covering the Treasure Coast are revving up efforts to catch illegal lawn waterers.

But they’re going at it in different ways:

The South Florida Water Management District, which includes Martin and St. Lucie counties, is relying on local governments for enforcement. The St. Johns River Water Management District, which includes Indian River County, plans to hire private contractors.

At a workshop Thursday, officials with the South Florida district, gave a pep talk to local law enforcement officials charged with enforcing watering restrictions. Representatives from the Stuart and Port St. Lucie Police departments, the Martin County Sheriff’s Office and the Jupiter Island Public Safety Office attended. (more…)