July 2026 | Issue 50

City Manager's Message

Summer is always a busy time in the City of Cocoa, and this year is no exception. As we continue investing in our community and planning for the future, I'm pleased to share several exciting developments that will have a lasting impact on our residents, businesses, and visitors.

Recently, Governor Ron DeSantis approved the State of Florida's budget, which includes funding for several important City of Cocoa projects. The approved funding includes $2 million for the future Cocoa Multimodal Station Access Road, an important transportation improvement that will enhance access to the future passenger rail station and support economic growth. The budget also includes $4.7 million to construct baffle boxes along Indian River Drive that will help capture pollutants from stormwater runoff before they enter the Indian River Lagoon, protecting one of our community's greatest natural resources. In addition, $375,000 was approved to continue improvements at Provost Park with additional soccer mini-pitches and enhanced landscaping, creating even more opportunities for recreation and youth athletics. These investments are possible because of the strong partnerships we've built at the local, state, and federal levels, and they allow us to continue improving our community while maximizing outside funding opportunities.

At the same time, City staff remains focused on another important priority—developing a balanced Fiscal Year 2027 budget. Every budget decision is made with the goal of responsibly managing taxpayer dollars while maintaining the high level of service our residents and businesses expect. Throughout the summer, the City Council will hold a series of public budget workshops and hearings, and I encourage you to attend, learn more about the process, and share your input. Public participation is an important part of ensuring our budget reflects the needs and priorities of the community we serve.

As you read through this month's newsletter, you'll find many examples of how we continue investing in Cocoa—from infrastructure improvements and environmental stewardship to youth programs, economic development, and public safety. Together, these efforts are helping build a stronger, more connected, and more resilient community.

Thank you for your continued support of the City of Cocoa. We appreciate the opportunity to serve you and look forward to continuing the important work that keeps Cocoa moving forward.

-Stockton Whitten, Cocoa City Manager

June 1st marked the beginning of hurricane season. Staying informed is the best way you can make sure you and your family are prepared before a storm’s approach. The City of Cocoa has all of the resources and information you need to be ready for a disaster. Some of the most frequently asked questions that we get before, during, and after a storm include:

Will the causeways close before the storm hits? Causeways DO NOT close prior to a storms arrival. Residents are provided every opportunity to evacuate. However, it is unsafe to cross causeways in high winds. After the storm has passed, causeways will close until it has been inspected for safety by the Florida Department of Transportation. This is why it is very important to remain off the roadways immediately following a storm, to give the proper authorities time to clear and inspect the roadways so they are safe for travel.

When will my power come back on? Electricity outages are likely during a storm. You can prepare ahead of time by making sure the trees in your yard are free from any power lines prior to storm season. Visit https://www.fplmaps.com/ to see outages and keep track of when power will be restored. Florida Power and Light (FPL) works very hard to restore service to customers as quickly as possible.

How soon can I come back home after a storm has passed? Do not rush back to your home after you have evacuated. Public Safety personnel are out and about making sure the roadways are safe for your return and it is easier to do that without all of the traffic back on the roadways. Many traffic lights will be out, roadways can be flooded, power lines can be down and utility service may not be established at your home yet. Please remember to take your time returning home until it is safe to do so. Be patient and be careful. 

For more frequently asked questions and hurricane preparedness information, make sure to visit our information page by clicking the button below.

Celebrating K-9 Copper

The City of Cocoa invites the community to join in celebrating a very special member of the Cocoa Police Department family. K-9 Copper, the department’s beloved therapy dog and community ambassador, will officially retire following ten years of dedicated service to the Cocoa community.

A retirement and 10th birthday celebration honoring Copper will be held on September 17, 2026, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Cocoa Riverfront Park. Community members are encouraged to attend and help recognize the impact Copper has made throughout Cocoa.

The City of Cocoa and the Cocoa Police Foundation are hosting their Annual School Supply Drive from July 1st through August 1st. School supplies collected will be distributed directly to students in the Cocoa community. Donations can be dropped off at City Hall, the Porcher House, the Cocoa Police Department, and Fire Stations 1, 2, and 3 during normal business hours.

A large collection event will also be held at the Cocoa Walmart on Saturday, August 1, 2026, from 9 am to 2 pm, during which shoppers will be encouraged to support the initiative. The supplies will be distributed on Thursday, August 6th from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Dr. Joe Lee Smith Center—just in time for the new school year.

The City of Cocoa and the Cocoa Police Foundation invite the community to support local students by helping ensure they have the supplies needed to start the 2026–2027 school year with confidence. For questions, contact Public Information Officer, Jaime Braudrick, 321-433-8522 or jbraudrick@cocoafl.gov.