A Tribute to Harry A. Johnston II

More than 35 years ago, four local leaders – including state Sen. Harry A. Johnston II – demanded change for Palm Beach County’s children and families by creating a local children’s services council. Today, we mourn Sen. Johnston’s passing and are forever thankful for his leadership, persistence and heart.

In the mid-1980s, Sen. Johnston took a bold step, urging his peers in the Florida Legislature to allow local communities to tax themselves on behalf of children and families. In comments during that time, Sen. Johnston stated: “In every child who is born, the potential of the human race is born again; and in every child who is born, there is born in us a responsibility to that child, and to the future of our country.”

In November 1986, Palm Beach County residents voted by a 70-30 margin to create a local Children’s Services Council – only the second in Florida. By throwing his weight behind the cause, Sen. Johnston helped Palm Beach County lead the way in providing vital, life-changing services for children and families across the state. Today, 13 Florida counties have created CSCs that invest in the well-being of their community’s children and families. In 11 counties, voters have approved independent taxing authority for their CSC to ensure that a dedicated funding source is available for children’s programs and services. 

Sen. Johnston – who was joined by children's advocate Elaine Webb Alvarez, local attorney Kenneth G. Spillias and then state. Rep Eleanor Weinstock in pushing for CSC’s creation – went beyond the call of duty to become Children’s Services Council of Palm Beach County’s first chair, setting a precedent for CSC to use data, research and accountability in decision-making. 

We are deeply grateful for his commitment to Palm Beach County’s children.