Elizabeth Accomando Statement Regarding Sara Baxter's Push to Change Zoning Rules to Benefit One Resident

LOXAHATCHEE, FL – Today, Elizabeth Accomando released the following statement after the media reported that last week County Commissioner Sara Baxter pursued a land zoning change that would have benefited a single resident in Heritage Farms and unneccesarily cost taxpayer dollars:

“I was surprised to learn that last week Palm Beach County Commissioner Sara Baxter was trying to bend the rules to benefit a single resident, an effort that would have, once again, misused county staff time and wasted taxpayer dollars. 

Commissioner Baxter’s push for a zoning change for a single parcel would have increased the density at the expense of all of the other Heritage Farm residents.

Let me be clear: I'm a big supporter of personal property rights, but to try to circumvent the process to benefit one land owner creates a dangerous precedent and undermines the very protections that keep neighborhoods safe, consistent, and valuable. 

I’m also a big defender of the rural lifestyle for our Western residents and communities, a way of life that seems like it’s constantly under threat. 

Rules exist for a reason: to ensure fairness, safety, and stability. Real leadership means applying them consistently, not picking winners and losers, and certainly not wasting tax payer dollars in the process.

As an elected official myself and a candidate for County Commission, I believe it's important that we have leaders in place that know the rules and can help guide people through the process, not get around it. I will always fight for fairness and a level playing field for everyone. 

On Friday, August 29, the Palm Beach Post published a story entitled “County Commissioner Baxter's plan to pursue zoning change for a constituent goes nowhere”, an effort that residents and fellow Palm Beach County Commissioners labelled as “preferential treatment” and “a handout”, respectively. 

About Elizabeth Accomando

Elizabeth Accomando serves as the President of the Indian Trail Improvement District Board of Supervisors where she champions infrastructure improvements, civic engagement, fiscal discipline, and environmental stewardship. She was elected in 2022 and is a Certified District Officer.

Accomando is a Palm Beach County leader, animal welfare advocate, and founder of Barky Pines Animal Rescue & Sanctuary. Since 2014, she has saved thousands of animals in partnership with the county, launched a low-cost veterinary clinic serving over 7,000 pets, and provided critical support to veterans, seniors, and underserved families. Her work has earned multiple Community Choice Awards—including Best Veterinary Clinic, Best Boarding Facility, and Best Eco-Friendly Business—as well as recognition from the Palm Beach County Commission. 

She served on the Palm Beach County Value Adjustment Board from 2023-2025, where she worked hard to protect agriculture both large and small. 

A dedicated public servant and small business owner, Elizabeth has a proven track record of fiscal responsibility and budget management. When she’s not working for the people she volunteers her time working closely with students, nonprofits, and civic groups to create a more compassionate and connected community.