eLauderhill News

Black Historical Journey Lauderhill Arts Center Next opening

2012-01-30T17:53:00.002-05:00

Senior Expo 2012

2012-01-27T01:04:00.003-05:00

On Monday, February 13, 2012, from 10 am to 4 pm, 3rd Annual Senior Expo will be held at the Inverrary Country Club, 3840 Inverrary Blvd., Lauderhill.

Exhibitors, health screenings, refreshments, entertainment, prizes and other activities will be available. The event is open to the public and is free.

For more information call 754-246-2874 or go to www.retirement-times.com.

Notes of the Commission Meeting on January 9

2012-01-24T01:41:00.000-05:00

The City Commission met on January 9, and the following are notes of interest (all items passed unimously, unless otherwise indicated). Commissioner Bates was absent due to illness:

ORDINANCES & PUBLIC HEARINGS ----- FIRST READING:

1. ORDINANCE NO. 12O-01-100: ADDING PROVISIONS TO AUTHORIZE THE IMPOSITION AND LEVY OF NON-AD VALOREM ASSESSMENTS ON THE ANNUAL TAX BILL FOR THE COSTS OF REMEDYING VIOLATIONS OF CHAPTER 10 RELATIVE TO UNSANITARY AND/OR UNSIGHTLY CONDITIONS ON PRIVATE PROPERTY INCLUDING RELATED ADMINISTRATIVE COSTS AND/OR RECORDING FEES, IF APPLICABLE; PROVIDING FOR THE COLLECTION OF NON-AD VALOREM ASSESSMENTS; (SPONSORED BY MAYOR RICHARD J. KAPLAN).

2. ORDINANCE NO. 12O-01-101: CONCERNING THE FAILURE TO PAY BUSINESS TAX AND/OR OTHER APPLICABLE FEES; AMENDING PROVISIONS REGARDING RECORDING OF LIENS AND COLLECTION COMPANY FEES. Removed from Agenda.

ORDINANCES & PUBLIC HEARINGS --- SECOND READING:

3. ORDINANCE NO. 11O-12-177: APPROVING A SUPPLEMENTAL APPROPRIATION OF ADDITIONAL REVENUES AND EXPENDITURES TO BALANCE THE FISCAL YEAR 2012 BUDGET.

4. ORDINANCE NO. 11O-12-179: AMENDING SECTION 6-42, POWERS AND DUTIES TO AUTHORIZE BUILDING OFFICIAL TO ISSUE UNIFORM CODE CITATIONS FOR FLORIDA BUILDING CODE VIOLATIONS AND SETTING FORTH SCHEDULE OF PENALTIES; AMENDING SECTIONS 6-46, 6-51 AND 6-56 ALL TO REFERENCE RENUMBERED SECTION 115 OF FLORIDA BUILDING CODE.

5. ORDINANCE NO. 11O-12-180: TO AUTHORIZE BUILDING OFFICIALS TO ISSUE UNIFORM CODE CITATIONS FOR BUILDING VIOLATIONS.

6. ORDINANCE NO. 11O-12-181: CREATING SECTION 12-12, EXPEDITED PROCESS, PROVIDING TERMS APPLICABLE TO QUALIFIED NEW, EXPANDING OR RELOCATING BUSINESSES APPLYING FOR BUILDING PERMITS, CERTIFICATE OF USE AND LOCAL BUSINESS TAX RECEIPT.

7. ORDINANCE NO. 11O-12-182: AMENDING THE CODE OF ORDINANCES, CHAPTER 4, ANIMALS AND FOWL, ARTICLE, II, DOGS AND CATS, SECTION 4-20, RUNNING AT LARGE PROHIBITED; IMPOUNDMENT; REDEMPTION TO PROVIDE FOR RECOVERY OF ANIMAL PICKUP FEE.

RESOLUTIONS
ADMINISTRATION

8. RESOLUTION NO. 12R-01-01: APPROVING THE WAIVER OF COMPETITIVE BIDDING; APPROVING THE AGREEMENT WITH MUNICIPAL CODE CORPORATION (MCCI) TO PIGGYBACK THE INTERLOCAL COOPERATION CONTRACT FOR INFORMATION RESOURCES TECHNOLOGIES WITH THE TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF INFORMATION RESOURCES (DIR) TO ENABLE THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL TO PURCHASE LASERFICHE DOCUMENT IMAGING AND RECORDS MANAGEMENT SOFTWARE AND SERVICES THROUGH THESE CONTRACT ARRANGEMENTS IN THE TOTAL AMOUNT OF $20,253.00.

COMMISSION

9. RESOLUTION NO. 12R-01-02: SUPPORTING HOUSE BILL (HB) 779 RELATING TO ELECTRIC ENERGY PRODUCTION TO REVISE THE DEFINITION OF “PUBLIC UTILITY” TO EXCLUDE CERTAIN ENTITIES THAT PRODUCE RENEWABLE SOLAR ENERGY; ENABLING PRODUCTION FACILITIES OTHER THAN FULLY REGULATED UTILITIES TO SELL RENEWABLE SOLAR ENERGY DIRECTLY TO CUSTOMERS (REQUESTED BY MAYOR RICHARD J. KAPLAN).

10. RESOLUTION NO. 12R-01-03: SUPPORTING THE EFFORTS OF STUDENTS WORKING AGAINST TOBACCO (SWAT), THE TOBACCO-FREE PARTNERSHIP OF BROWARD COUNTY, AND THE AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY TO RESTRICT THE SALE OF FLAVORED TOBACCO PRODUCTS (REQUESTED BY COMMISSIONER M. MARGARET BATES).

11. RESOLUTION NO. 12R-01-04: APPOINTING KENNY DAVIS BY MAYOR RICHARD J. KAPLAN AS A MEMBER OF THE LAUDERHILL HOUSING AUTHORITY BOARD PURSUANT TO FLORIDA STATUTES, CHAPTER 421; PROVIDING FOR A FOUR (4) YEAR TERM.

FINANCE

12. RESOLUTION NO. 12R-01-05: APPROVING THE RENEWAL OF THE COMMUNICATIONS SERVICES TAX AGREEMENT FOR ACCESS TO CONFIDENTIAL STATE TAX INFORMATION BETWEEN THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL AND THE FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE; AUTHORIZING EXECUTION BY THE CITY MANAGER.

13. RESOLUTION NO. 12R-01-06: APPROVING THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL'S FIFTH PROGRAM YEAR COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT (CDBG) CONSOLIDATED ANNUAL PERFORMANCE AND EVALUATION REPORT (CAPER).

FIRE

14. RESOLUTION NO. 12R-01-07: APPROVING AND ACCEPTING THE FEDERAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AGENCY (FEMA) AND DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (DHS) FY 2011 ASSISTANCE TO FIREFIGHTERS OPERATION AND SAFETY PROGRAM GRANT (EMW-2011-FO-05505) IN THE AMOUNT OF $280,000.00; PROVIDING FOR CITY MATCHING FUNDS IN THE AMOUNT OF $70,000.00.

15. RESOLUTION NO. 12R-01-08: ACCEPTING THE DONATION OF TWO (2) DEFIBRILLATORS TO THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL FROM THE NORTH SHORE FLORIDA MEDICAL CENTER CAMPUS MEDICAL STAFF; PROVIDING FOR A RETROACTIVE ACCEPTANCE DATE OF DECEMBER 21, 2011 (REQUESTED BY MAYOR RICHARD J KAPLAN).

POLICE

16. RESOLUTION NO. 12R-01-09: APPROVING THE DONATION OF FUNDS IN THE AMOUNT OF $2,500.00 FROM THE STATE LOCAL LAW ENFORCEMENT TRUST FUND (LETF) TO THE POLICE HONOR GUARD SOCIETY OF BROWARD COUNTY AND THE BROWARD POLICE MEMORIAL ASSOCIATION MULTI-AGENCY ORGANIZATION TO SUPPORT THE BUILDING OF A MEMORIAL TO HONOR FALLEN OFFICERS IN ACCORDANCE WITH STATE GUIDELINES; PROVIDING FOR PAYMENT FROM BUDGET CODE NUMBER 120-683-9935.

Unitown Slots Available for High School Students

2012-01-21T01:54:00.002-05:00

The City of Lauderhill still has a few open unclaimed Unitown spots.

UNITOWN is a weekend retreat for high school students where they receive training and enlightment on issues involving diversity, community values and leadership. It brings together a group of diverse high school students from many racial, religious and cultural backgrounds in a controlled setting to interact with each other with a carefully selected, skilled and equally diverse adult/student volunteer staff. Students who attend will be sharing experiences of their own culture, gaining a better understanding of other groups and preparing themselves for leadership roles in their schools and in our community. It runs from Saturday February 18 through Monday February 20th.

UNITOWN will train youth for effective leadership in a pluralistic democracy without bigotry or discrimination and without compromise of distinctive faiths or identities.

The objectives are:

To learn about prejudice and discrimination and the effect they have on others within our society;

To achieve greater understanding and respect for one's self through interaction with persons of different ethnic origins;

To develop skills needed to help solve individual and group problems in human relations;

To help students understand and respect cultures different from their own; and To give direction to young people's convictions and ideas regarding society

There is a nominal $30 non-refundable deposit; all trip costs (including food and lodging) are sponsored by the City of Lauderhill.

This is one of those priceless (sometimes life changing) opportunities for teens--and adult volunteers--if you are interested, just let me know. It also looks great on a college application.

Call Daphne, Joy or Ruth at City of Lauderhill (954) 321-2450 if you have any questions and to turn in your applications.

Lauderhill’s Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for the Aquatic Complex at John Mullin Park

2012-01-18T11:53:00.001-05:00

The City of Lauderhill Mayor and Elected Officials are proud to open the doors to the newly constructed Aquatic Complex at John Mullin Park (2000 NW 55 Avenue) on Thursday, January 19th at 10 am.

The new Aquatic Complex was built on the former City Hall site which was damaged beyond repair after Hurricane Wilma in 2005. The Old Florida Tropical style 4,000 square foot facility is surrounded by lush landscaping and is beautifully adorned with two public art projects using artistic flooring surfaces. One of which is made from recyclable materials. You must see this!

The Complex paid for in part by $75,000 grant dollars includes multi-purpose meeting/class rooms, bath/locker rooms, and a concession area. All the lighting and cooling fixtures are energy efficient while the plumbing fittings are low flow for water conservation. The facility meets the LEED Silver standards and is cheerfully painted and decorated with a wavy water theme!

The new 25 meter swimming pool includes eight lanes for competition and is both heated and cooled. The pool deck is large and can host swim meets. The “Funbrella” splash feature completes the pool deck to appeal and attract residents of all ages, and the entire area overlooks a fantastic lake.

“The Lauderhill Central Residents’ Association will finally have a neighborhood facility to host monthly meetings and social gatherings. Having a recreation center and swimming pool in our community is essential for happy and healthy families,” states Beryl Collins, Lauderhill Central Residents’ Association President.

The Aquatic Complex is located at John Mullin Park which includes tennis courts, a multi-purpose field, basketball and racquetball courts, pavilions, a walking path and parking. The Boys and Girls Club is also located in this Park.

Join us in opening the doors to this new fantastic facility. We will have a brief program on Thursday, January 19th at 10 am….pool side followed by refreshments.

For more information or to RSVP contact Katia at klolagne@lauderhill-fl.gov or 954-730-3000.

YMCA 2012 College Tour

2012-01-15T00:55:00.005-05:00

Dates: March 12 -16, 2012

Goals:

Introduce students to campus/college life while deepening their knowledge of college admissions procedures

Strengthen students’ understanding of Black Colleges/Universities’ rich history

Assist students with planning and decision making related to their educational future

Motivate student achievement

Who Should Attend?

Youth grades 8-11 who have a desire to attend and complete college

Youth seeking to broaden their knowledge of college acceptance standards and how it relates to their current and future academic expectations

What to Expect?

Opportunities to explore nine collegiate campuses

Admissions presentations provided by collegiate staff and professional tour guides

A great time with volunteers and staff passionate about youth and their positive development

Exploration of various cities, cultural visits to local attractions, and shopping at the historic Atlanta Underground Mall

Opportunities to connect with collegiate staff

New, positive peer friendships

Cost:

Total $225

Deposit:

Early bird: non-refundable $50 deposit due by Dec 18th.

Late: non-refundable $100 deposit due by Jan 15th.

Final balance due: February 15th.

Cost includes: transportation, room/board, t-shirt, journal and one activity.

Y Tour Schedule

University of Central Florida

University of North Florida

FAMU

Spellman College

Morehouse College

Clark Atlanta University

Morris Brown

University of Florida

Florida State University

For more information contact: 754.322.3608

New Live Well Lauderhill Web Site by YMCA

2012-01-12T01:48:00.000-05:00

Please take a look at the site http://livewelllauderhill.wordpress.com/ and see all that is happening with the Live Well Lauderhill initiative.

Mark your calendars for January 19^th to attend the opening of the youth leader’s art exhibit at the Lauderhill Art Center.

Andi Crawford

Director of Community Initiatives

YMCA of Broward County

College Scholarships Available

2012-01-09T01:41:00.003-05:00

The links are the applications and criteria for both the 2012 ASPA South Florida Chapter and Natacha Seijas 'Women in Public Service' scholarships. The deadline for these two awards is March 1, 2012.

The scholarship applications are also available via the links above or on the website, www.aspaonline.org/southfla/.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Agatha Caraballo at acara009@fiu.edu or 786-222-1512, or alternatively Roslyn Alic-Batson, Communications Secretary, at 305-375-5658 or aspasouthfla@yahoo.com.

How to Request a Mayoral Proclamation

2012-01-06T00:31:00.000-05:00

It has often been requested by many to obtain a Mayoral Proclamation. To assist the public and city staff, a procedure and form was created to use.

Anyone interested in a Proclamation should go to this link.

Mayor Kaplan Announces his Withdrawal from Running for County Commissioner

2012-01-04T20:57:00.002-05:00

Due to unforeseen circumstances, which occurred a few weeks ago regarding a personal business matter, I regretfully am announcing my withdrawal from the race for the Broward County Commission District 1.  However, this issue will not prevent me from running for re-election as Mayor of Lauderhill in 2014, which I intend to do.

I can state that the reason is not due to:  1) any type of investigation, lawsuit or illegal activity; 2) concern over my opponents or being able to raise funds for the campaign; 3) anything my opponents or their supporters have done; or 4) for health reasons.   The exact reason, when I announced, could not have been anticipated.   All upcoming planned fund raisers in this effort are being cancelled.

I want to thank everyone who encouraged and supported me in my efforts to serve as their County Commissioner.  I believe you would have seen some significant changes in the county if I were able to serve.  On the bright side, to those Lauderhill residents and businesses that were concerned about my stepping down as Mayor, I am not going anywhere and I will continue to serve you to the best of my ability.

Richard J Kaplan

David I. Muir to launch 2012 “Pieces of Jamaica” fine arts exhibition at the City of Sunrise Art Gallery

2012-01-03T01:37:00.001-05:00

The true beauty and rich culture of Jamaica will be on display at the City of Sunrise, Civic Center Art Gallery through visual and performing arts at the “Pieces of Jamaica” Fine Arts Exhibition slated to run during the months of January and February, 2012.

The event will showcase Jamaica as seen through the lens of photographer David I. Muir. The exhibition will feature events with the Grand Opening set for Friday, January 6, 2012 at 6:30 pm and the “Dub Vibe” performing arts event to be held on Wednesday, February 22, 2012 at 6:00 pm. The exhibition will once again move beyond the visual and showcase various cultural aspects of the island through music, poetry, culinary and other artistic expressions, as it explores the complexity of Jamaica’s culture and people.

David I. Muir is a Jamaican fine art photographer living in South Florida, USA. Besides his family, photography is Muir’s greatest passion and he has a special love for candid portraiture and lifestyle photography – signature components of his exhibits.

David I. Muir’s photography business, DAVIDIPHOTO, Inc. operates in Lauderhill, FL as a participant of the Lauderhill International Trade Incubator. According to Muir, “I’m excited to highlight Jamaica’s beauty and culture with my photography. It will be a great opportunity for lovers of art to come out and see different aspects of Jamaica and experience the culture that will be on display throughout the exhibition.”

For more information please contact David I Muir at 954-200-5110 or e-mail info@davidiphoto.com.

From All Of Us, Have a Safe and

2011-12-29T01:20:00.002-05:00

Lauderhill Arts Center Presents Calacas

2011-12-25T01:19:00.001-05:00

Notes of the Commission Meeting of December 12

2011-12-21T01:11:00.005-05:00

On December 12, the City Commission met, and the following are notes of interest from that meeting (all voting items passed unaminously unless otherwise indicated):

ORDINANCES & PUBLIC HEARINGS ----- FIRST READING:

1. ORDINANCE NO. 11O-12-180: TO AUTHORIZE BUILDING OFFICIALS TO ISSUE UNIFORM CODE CITATIONS FOR BUILDING VIOLATIONS

2. ORDINANCE NO. 11O-12-182: REDEMPTION TO PROVIDE FOR RECOVERY OF ANIMAL PICKUP FEE.

RESOLUTIONS:

3. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-12-262: APPROVING THE AWARD OF CONTRACT TO ADA ENGINEERING, INC. FROM THE APPROVED LIST OF CONSULTING FIRMS FOR MISCELLANEOUS PROFESSIONAL SERVICES IN A TOTAL AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $170,164.00 FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF CONSTRUCTION PLANS AND DESIGNS OF THE “EWP-CANALS 26, 28 AND 29 BANK STABILIZATION PROJECT” TO INCLUDE SLOPE STABILIZATION, DREDGING, BACK-FILLING, BANK PROTECTION, SEAWALLS, STONE/CONCRETE RIP/RAP, GEO-FORMS, CHANNEL SECTION DESIGNS, AND OTHER IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE MISCELLANEOUS PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT;
AUTHORIZING EXECUTION OF SAID AGREEMENT; AUTHORIZING PAYMENT FROM BUDGET CODE NUMBER 450-925-6319.

4. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-12-269: APPROVING THE AMENDMENT NUMBER ONE TO THE STATE OF FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION JOINT PARTICIPATION AGREEMENT WITH THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL REGARDING LANDSCAPE, HARDSCAPE AND IRRIGATION IMPROVEMENTS ON STATE ROAD 838 (SUNRISE BOULEVARD) PROVIDING FOR A ONE-YEAR TERM EXTENSION.

5. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-12-263: AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE AN AGREEMENT TO ACCEPT TWO “MEDICA MONITORING AND REHABILITATION” KITS FROM BROWARD COUNTY AS PART OF A MULTI-AGENCY BROWARD COUNTY EMS GRANT IN WHICH THE CITY OF SUNRISE ACTED AS THE LEAD AGENCY AT NO COST TO THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL.

6. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-12-264: APPROVING THE REQUEST TO WAIVE THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL BUILDING AND ENGINEERING PERMIT FEES, CONNECTION FEES, AND PROPERTY TAXES FOR A DEFINED TERM FOR THE CARIBBEAN FALLS DEVELOPMENT IN THE STATE ROAD 7 CRA DISTRICT.

7. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-12-265: APPROVING THE DONATION OF FUNDS IN THE AMOUNT OF $2,000.00 FROM THE STATE LOCAL LAW ENFORCEMENT TRUST FUND (LETF) TO SPORTS ADVANCING KIDS EDUCATION (S.A.K.E.) TO SUPPORT DRUG TREATMENT, DRUG EDUCATION OR DRUG PREVENTION, CRIME PREVENTION, SAFE NEIGHBORHOOD, OR SCHOOL RESOURCE OFFICER PROGRAMS IN ACCORDANCE WITH STATE GUIDELINES.

8. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-12-270: APPROVING THE DONATION OF FUNDS IN THE AMOUNT OF $2,000.00 FROM THE STATE LOCAL LAW ENFORCEMENT TRUST FUND (LETF) TO THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL MLK TASKFORCE 2012; PROVIDING FOR PAYMENT FROM BUDGET CODE NUMBER 120-683-9935.

QUASI-JUDICIAL MATTERS
QUASI-JUDICIAL MATTERS, FIRST READING

9. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-12-266: RESCINDING AND REPLACING RESOLUTION 11R-07-126; GRANTING A SPECIAL EXCEPTION USE DEVELOPMENT ORDER TO PINEAPPLES CAFÉ, INC., SUBJECT TO AMENDED CONDITIONS, TO ALLOW WITHIN THE GENERAL COMMERCIAL ZONING DISTRICT A RESTAURANT BAR AND BANQUET HALL WITH LIVE ENTERTAINMENT MORE COMMONLY KNOWN AS BONVALE PLAZA LOCATED AT 7529-7531 WEST OAKLAND PARK BOULEVARD, LAUDERHILL, FLORIDA.

Another Success for Broward MPO: $540,000 FTA Grant Awarded

2011-12-18T00:59:00.000-05:00

For the second time in less than a month the Broward Metropolitan Planning Organization (Broward MPO) secures a Federal Transit Administration (FTA) grant. This grant is part of a South Florida Veterans Transportation and Community Living Initiative.

Broward will upgrade the 2-1-1 telephone and website system to serve as the one-call/one-click center. This project will bring transportation resources into the system that also houses employment, housing food and counseling services information, and build a new Automatic Call Distribution and database system. The USDOT reported that the grant selection process was highly competitive, and FTA reviewed 70 eligible proposals representing $52 million in funding requests.

Since 1995, 2-1-1 Broward has been the community’s central point of entry into the health and human services system. Dialing 2-1-1 is an easy way for people who need help to get connected with the community service providers that can help them. For more information visit http://www.211-broward.org/.

2011 State of the City Speech

2011-12-15T01:02:00.001-05:00

During the month of December, Comcast will be broadcasting the State of the City Speech by Mayor Richard J. Kaplan.

The speech will be given on one of the public access channels, 12 or 78.

Notes of the Regular Commission Meeting of November 28

2011-12-12T01:20:00.000-05:00

On November 28, the City Commission held its Regular Commission Meeting. The following are notes of interest from that meeting (all items passed unanimously unless otherwise indicated):

ELECTION:

A. ELECTION OF VICE MAYOR - Commissioner Hayward Benson, Jr.

RESOLUTIONS:

1. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-11-251: APPROVING THE PROJECT AGREEMENT FOR THE EMERGENCY WATERSHED PROTECTION PROGRAM AWARDING THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL A $4,000,000.00 GRANT FOR CANAL BANK IMPROVEMENTS TO CANALS 29, 28, AND 26; APPROVING THE ASSURANCES FORM REQUIRED IN CONNECTION WITH THE PROJECT.

2. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-11-255: APPROVING THE WAIVER OF COMPETITIVE BIDDING; APPROVING THE LIST OF SOLE SOURCE VENDORS TO PROVIDE MAINTENANCE OF SPECIALIZED DEPARTMENT OF ENGINEERING AND ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES (DEES) AND FIRE RESCUE EMERGENCY VEHICLES ON AN AS NEEDED BASIS.

3. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-11-256: AWARDING THE BID TO LCN GROUP, INC. IN THE AMOUNT OF $82,500.00 FOR THE COMPLETE DEMOLITION OF THE PARK SOUTH CONDOMINIUM BUILDING 19 LOCATED AT 1590 N.W. 43RD AVENUE, LAUDERHILL, FLORIDA; ACKNOWLEDGING THAT THE COSTS OF DEMOLITION WITH BE PAID FOR UTILIZING NEIGHBORHOOD STABILIZATION PROGRAM FUNDING.

4. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-11-257: APPROVING THE AMENDMENT TO THE PROFESSIONAL SERVICE AGREEMENT BETWEEN LIMOUSINES OF SOUTH FLORIDA, INC. AND THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL FOR COMMUNITY SHUTTLE BUS SERVICE PURSUANT TO RFP #2011-019; PROVIDING THAT THIS AGREEMENT SHALL TAKE EFFECT RETROACTIVELY COMMENCING AUGUST 11, 2011 AND END ON AUGUST 10, 2012 WITH TWO (2) ADDITIONAL OPTIONS TO RENEW FOR ONE (1) YEAR TERMS REMAINING; SUBSTITUTING THE EXHIBITS REGARDING THE NUMBER OF HOURS FOR THE BUS ROUTE.

5. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-11-258: APPROVING THE SECOND AMENDMENT TO THE AGREEMENT OF OPERATIONS DATED MAY 18, 2010 WITH AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAMS (ASP) TO OPERATE THE AFTER SCHOOL, SUMMER CAMP, AND OUT OF SCHOOL PROGRAMS DURING THE BROWARD COUNTY SCHOOL BOARD 2010-2011 CALENDAR YEAR; PROVIDING THAT THE PROGRAMS WILL SERVE CHILDREN AGES 5 THROUGH 12 YEARS OLD (KINDERGARTEN THROUGH SIXTH GRADE); PROVIDING FOR THE TERM COMMENCING JUNE 1, 2011 AND ENDING AUGUST 31, 2012.

QUASI-JUDICIAL MATTERS
QUASI-JUDICIAL MATTERS, FIRST READING

6. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-11-259: GRANTING A SPECIAL EXCEPTION USE DEVELOPMENT ORDER TO SUNSHINE GASOLINE, SUBJECT TO CONDITIONS, TO ALLOW THE CONTINUED OPERATION OF AN EXISTING 24-HOUR SERVICE STATION WITH CONVENIENCE STORE AND AUTOMATED CAR WASH IN THE GENERAL COMMERCIAL (CG) MORE COMMONLY KNOWN AS THE CHEVRON SERVICE STATION LOCATED AT 5585 N. UNIVERSITY DRIVE, LAUDERHILL.

7. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-11-260: GRANTING A SPECIAL EXCEPTION USE DEVELOPMENT ORDER TO SUNSHINE GASOLINE, SUBJECT TO CONDITIONS, TO ALLOW THE CONTINUED OPERATION OF AN EXISTING 24-HOUR SERVICE STATION WITH CONVENIENCE STORE IN THE GENERAL COMMERCIAL (CG) ZONING DISTRICT KNOWN AS THE BP SERVICE STATION LOCATED AT 8790 WEST COMMERCIAL BOULEVARD, LAUDERHILL.

SET ANNUAL RETREAT: - February 9, 2012, 9 am, at City Hall.

Holiday Donations Sought by Lauderhill

2011-12-09T00:09:00.003-05:00

Message from the City of Lauderhill:

The Lauderhill Fire-Rescue, Police, and Parks and Leisure Services Departments have joined together to help our residents in need during the Holiday Season. We are currently collecting food and toys if you are interested in assisting those in need.

We are currently accepting new / unwrapped toys and non-perishable food items as well as cash donations. Checks can be made payable to "Lauderhill We Care Fund."

You may bring donations to any of our FIVE Locations:

Fire Station #57 FD Headquarters – (1980 NW 56 Avenue)

Fire Station #30 (1181 NW 41 Terrace) - next to the Sadkin Community Center

Fire Station #73 (7801 NW 50 Street) – In front of Veteran’s Park

Fire Station #110 (3120 NW 12 Place) - on NW 31st Avenue & NW 12th Place

Windermere Community Center (1818 NW 54 Terrace)

If you would like to donate and cannot make it to one of our drop off locations, please call Fire-Rescue Headquarters at (954) 730-2950, and we will make arrangements to have your donation picked up.

We wish all of you a safe and healthy holiday season.

Notes of Special Commission Meeting of November 21

2011-12-06T01:05:00.003-05:00

On November 21, the Commission met in a Special Meeting to discuss the following item:

RESOLUTION NO. 11R-11-250: TERMINATING THE SERVICE AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL AND D. STEPHENSON CONSTRUCTION, INC. FOR CONSTRUCTION SERVICES RELATIVE TO THE PERFORMING ARTS/CULTURAL CENTER AND THE LAUDERHILL MALL LIBRARY.

After almost 3 hours of discussion, the Commission, on a 5-0 vote, amended the Resolution to give until December 12 for D. Stephenson Construction, Inc. to cure the default by providing to the city the required bonds and proceed to begin construction. Otherwise, the contract will be terminated for cause, and a new Request will go out for Construction Contractors to apply for the job.

City Recommended to get Community Shuttle Bus Grant

2011-12-03T01:50:00.003-05:00

The South Florida Regional Transit Authority's Planning Technical Advisory Committee (PTAC) recommended to the Board that the City's grant application for $453,000 for FY 2012 be funded for $411,091. The grant will be used for maintaining and expanding the Lauderhill Community Shuttle Bus Program. Additional new service is expected into the Southeast side of the city where no service presently exists.

The SFRTA will take action on the PTAC recommendation at their next meeting, which is not scheduled but is anticipated to be in late November early December. If approved by the SFTRA, then it will go to the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) for final review of project eligibility.

City staff now will be working with the West Ken Lark, United, St. George and Broward Estates neighborhoods to finalize the routes and will be working on developing a marketing strategy and monitoring plan for the project.

Mayor Kaplan Announces Candidacy for County Commission District 1

2011-11-28T21:16:00.003-05:00

Mayor Richard J Kaplan announced that he has filed to run for the County Commission-District 1, as a Democrat in the upcoming 2012 elections.

The District is expected to include parts of Lauderhill, Sunrise, Tamarac and Plantation, and may include parts of North Lauderdale, Margate and/or Weston. Final district boundary lines are expected to be approved in the next few months.

In 1998, he was the youngest ever elected Mayor of the City of Lauderhill, Florida and has since been re-elected in 2002, 2006 and 2010 making him the longest serving Mayor in the city’s history, as well as the longest serving elected official (over 23 years).

Mayor Kaplan serves on numerous boards, often serving as Chair or President. Some of these boards include the Broward Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO), the Florida MPOAC, AMPO, Southeast Florida Transportation Council (SEFTC), State of Florida Strategic Intermodal System (SIS) Steering Committee (2003 & 2009), State of Florida 2025 Long Range Planning Steering Committee (2005) that created the 2025 Florida Transportation Plan, US Conference of Mayors – Transportation and Communication Committee, National League of City - Transportation & Infrastructure Services Steering Committee.

He has developed an expertise in transportation matters as well as energy/environmental issues, and has successfully authored over 190 pieces of legislation in the City, particularly in the areas of energy, environmental and implementing government operation efficiencies.

Richard was born in Detroit, Michigan, and lived mostly in his hometown of Southfield, Michigan. He graduated from the University of Michigan with a B.G.S. degree, received a J.D. degree from Cleveland State University, and a LL.M.-Taxation from the University of Miami writing a Thesis analyzing State and Local Taxation with an examination of the potential of a VAT Tax.

He is also an attorney practicing in the areas of Estate Planning/Probate, Real Estate and Corporate/Business Law. He is married to Lynn for over 22 years, and has one son, Andrew, a senior attending the University of Michigan as a Communications Major.

Mayor Kaplan was awarded the first ever “Mayor of the Year” from the Florida League of Cities. Additionally he has received numerous other awards including the “Vision for the Future in Transportation Leadership” from the South Florida Commuter Services, “Outstanding Professional Achievement in Metropolitan Transportation Planning” from the Association of Metropolitan Planning Organizations (AMPO), and the “Vision Award” from the Smart Growth Partnership.

You can following Richard's campaign on Facebook, and a web site is being developed.

Political advertisement paid for and approved by Richard J Kaplan, Democrat for County Commissioner District 1

Notes of the Commission Meeting of November 14

2011-11-27T01:58:00.001-05:00

On November 14, the Commission held a Regular Commission Meeting, and the following are notes of interest (all items passed unanimously unless otherwise indicated):

RESOLUTIONS:

1. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-11-239: APPROVING AND ACCEPTING THE INTERLOCAL AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF CORAL SPRINGS AND THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL FOR UNITOWN 2012.

2. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-11-242: RETROACTIVELY EXTENDING THE DATE OF THE SITE PLAN APPROVAL FROM AUGUST 6TH, 2010 TO NOVEMBER 14TH, 2014 FOR A FIVE-STORY BUILDING CONSISTING OF 127 ASSISTED LIVING FACILITY UNITS ON THE VACANT LAND AT THE SOUTHWEST CORNER OF INVERRARY BOULEVARD AND NW 44TH STREET.

QUASI-JUDICIAL MATTERSQUASI-JUDICIAL MATTERS, FIRST READING

3. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-11-243: GRANTING A SPECIAL EXCEPTION USE DEVELOPMENT ORDER TO JAAHL LAUDERHILL, LLC, SUBJECT TO CONDITIONS, TO ALLOW THE CONVEYANCE OF VEHICULAR REPAIR SERVICE USES AT 7527 WEST OAKLAND PARK BOULEVARD, LAUDERHILL, FLORIDA; PROVIDING THE EXISTING 6,192 SQUARE FEET, ONE-STORY BUILDING IS A LEGAL NON-CONFORMING STRUCTURE.

4. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-10-231: GRANTING A SPECIAL EXCEPTION USE DEVELOPMENT ORDER TO MEDIX URGENT CARE CENTER, LLC, SUBJECT TO CONDITIONS, TO ALLOW A ± 750 SQUARE FOOT CLINIC WITH LABORATORY SERVICES AT 2331 NORTH STATE ROAD 7, UNIT 102.

Happy Thanksgiving to All

2011-11-24T01:05:00.000-05:00

Thanksgiving is actually my favorite holiday of the year. It is one of the few holidays that anyone in America can celebrate. It is both nondenominational and nondiscriminatory. It is a joyous holiday to celebrate giving Thanks to what we have, and the promise of what we hope for. For those who are less fortunate, it is a time for helping and sharing.

Surrounding the Thanks itself are some of the most enjoyable traditions of any holiday. Turkey, with stuffing, cranberries, sweet potatoes/yams, pumpkin pie, special parades, a few extra days off and football, just to name a few. Bringing this all together with family and friends. What could possibly make anyone more happy?

So when you sit down this year to your Thanksgiving Feast, stop a moment and think of what is truly important, and enjoy the moment knowing that what you have IS what is truly important.

On behalf of the City of Lauderhill, my family and myself, we wish you a very Happy Thanksgiving, and go Lions (I'm from Detroit, and this year we are winning).

Santa Delivery

2011-11-21T01:36:00.002-05:00

Santa and his friends will be available to come to your home to drop off a special present for your children. That's right, Santa will visit your house. Santa brings gifts, smiles for pictures and videos, and can repeat a message that Mom or Dad might want their children to hear.

PARENTS MUST PROVIDE ALL GIFTS THAT ARE DELIVERED!

Deliveries are limited to City of Lauderhill residents, and your child should be 2-10 years of age to participate.

THIS IS A FREE SERVICE.

Registration for this program begins via telephone only on Monday, November 28 and is taken on a first-call, first--served basis. Space is limited.

After the completion and confirmation of registration, parents are to wrap and clearly identify for whom the gift is intended, and drop it off at the Lauderhill Sports Park at 7500 W. Oakland Blvd., The DEADLINE for dropping off gifts is THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2011.

For more information or to register, please call 954-572-1478.

New Flood Maps Coming Out

2011-11-17T00:48:00.000-05:00

On November 15, new Flood Maps should be approved changing the way for many on who is required to have flood insurance.

Under the new proposed maps, many will no longer be in flood zones requiring the insurance, though it is recommended that you may want to still keep it.

To see about your property, as proposed, go to:

Proposed New Flood Zone Maps

The directions are: type in the address in the box to the top right. Zoom a little bit closer to the house using the side bar on the left, then click on your house. A popup box will appear telling you whether you will be mandated to get flood insurance and the old versus the new flood map panel and elevation information.

The Broward Green Expo is Here

2011-11-14T01:06:00.001-05:00

On November 18 and 19, the City of Lauderhill is presenting the Broward Green Expo at the Inverrary Hotel, 3801 Inverrary Blvd., Lauderhill. This free event is from 9 to 5 pm, and on the night of the 18th, Jazz Survivors will be performing at the amphitheatre next door at the Lieberman Botanical Gardens.

An exhibition hall with about 100 vendors, plus seminars of over 30 speakers, will present information on how to GO GREEN, for residents, business and government. Green jobs training, marketing, technology, and financing will be only a few of the subjects to be presented. Jessica Balsam from the US Department of Energy will be our keynote speaker.

This event is sponsored by numerous vendors, including SWS, DMS, Broward Minority Builders Coalition and Republic Service.

For more information please go to Broward Green Expo Web Site, or check it out on Facebook and Twitter.

Broward MPO secures a $1.5 million FTA Grant

2011-11-11T01:33:00.000-05:00

The Broward MPO has been awarded a Federal Transit Administration (FTA) grant to conduct a study (Alternatives Analysis) to explore enhanced bus and bus rapid transit alternatives on University Drive.

The study will focus on a 27-mile stretch of University Drive between Sample Road and Hallandale Beach Boulevard, which includes through the City of Lauderhill. This section of road has a mix of land uses but is primarily commercial, and includes a number of employment centers.

Providing more transportation choices would not only improve access to these employment centers but would also greatly enhance economic competitiveness of the cities that border this segment of University Drive.

Expressions of Joy - Lauderhill Arts Center

2011-11-07T01:38:00.002-05:00

Notes of the Regular Commission Meeting of October 31

2011-11-04T00:45:00.015-04:00

On October 31, the City Commission held its Regular Commission Meeting. The following of notes of interest (all items passed unanimously unless otherwise noted):

RESOLUTIONS

ADMINISTRATION

1. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-10-208: CREATING A HISTORICAL COMMISSION FOR THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL.

COMMISSION

2. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-10-213: OPTING TO FOREGO THE SALARY INCREASE IN THE CITY COMMISSIONERS’ SALARIES FOR FISCAL YEAR 2012; (REQUESTED BY CITY COMMISSION).

DEES

3. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-10-219: APPROVING THE LOCAL AGENCY PROGRAM AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE STATE OF FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION AND THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE “PROMENADE ALONG 11TH PLACE ENDING AT STATE ROAD 7/U.S. 441” TO INCLUDE MINOR ROAD, SIDEWALK, LIGHTING, AND LANDSCAPING DESIGNS; PROVIDING FOR GRANT FUNDING IN THE AMOUNT OF $678,405.00; RECOGNIZING THAT NO MATCHING FUNDS ARE REQUIRED FROM THE CITY.

FIRE

4. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-10-220: APPROVING THE REGIONAL INTERLOCAL AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE BROWARD SHERIFF’S OFFICE COMMUNICATIONS TECHNOLOGY DIVISION AND CITY OF LAUDERHILL PROVIDING FOR COOPERATIVE PARTICIPATION IN A REGIONAL PUBLIC SAFETY INTRANET.

5. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-10-221: AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE THE ADDENDUM TO EMS COUNTY GRANT FUNDING FOR PARTICIPATING AGENCY AGREEMENT BETWEEN BROWARD COUNTY AND THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL TO ACCEPT SIX (6) AUTOMATIC EXTERNAL DEFIBRILLATOR UNITS FROM BROWARD COUNTY AS PART OF A MULTI-AGENCY GRANT.

QUASI-JUDICIAL MATTERS, FIRST READING

6. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-10-231: GRANTING A SPECIAL EXCEPTION USE DEVELOPMENT ORDER TO MEDIX URGENT CARE CENTER, LLC, SUBJECT TO CONDITIONS, TO ALLOW A CLINIC WITH LABORATORY SERVICES AT 2331 NORTH STATE ROAD 7, UNIT 102. Tabled to next meeting.

7. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-10-232: GRANTING A SPECIAL EXCEPTION USE DEVELOPMENT ORDER TO THE JAMAICA EX-POLICE ASSOCIATION OF SOUTH FLORIDA, INC. (JEPASF), SUBJECT TO CONDITIONS, TO ALLOW A NON-PROFIT SOCIAL CLUB WITH INDOOR LIVE ENTERTAINMENT AND ACCESSORY ON PREMISES CONSUMPTION OF ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES AT OAKBROOK PLAZA, 7153 WEST OAKLAND PARK BOULEVARD. Passes 4-1, Commissioner Benson against.

8. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-10-233: GRANTING A SPECIAL EXCEPTION USE DEVELOPMENT ORDER TO FIRST COAST ENERGY, LLP #2830, SUBJECT TO CONDITIONS, TO ALLOW THE CONTINUED OPERATION OF AN EXISTING 24-HOUR SERVICE STATION WITH AUTOMATED CAR WASH AND CONVENIENCE STORE AT 7000 WEST COMMERCIAL BOULEVARD, LAUDERHILL.

9. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-10-234: UPHOLDING THE DENIAL OF AN APPEAL OF THE CITY PLANNER’S DETERMINATION THAT A SPECIAL EXCEPTION USE APPLICATION FILED BY THE APPLICANTS AND, WINSTON WHITE AND ALMA TAJAH WHITE, FOR A BANQUET HALL IN THE GENERAL COMMERCIAL (CG) ZONING DISTRICT CANNOT BE ACCEPTED FOR PROPERTY KNOWN AS CONDOMINIUM UNITS I AND J, INVERRARY BOULEVARD PLAZA, A CONDOMINIUM, KNOWN AS 4506 AND 4508 INVERRARY BOULEVARD. Removed from Agenda.

Broward League of Cities Offers Students Leadership and Scholarship Opportunities

2011-11-01T01:28:00.000-04:00

With the start of the new school year, the Broward League of Cities is proud to announce two opportunities for students interested in public service, government and civic responsibility: the Student Ambassador program and the Scholarship for Government Studies.

Student Ambassador Program

The Student Ambassador program is open to high school juniors who plan to pursue a career in public administration, political science or other government-related field. Four students, representing each quadrant of the county, are selected for a two-year term, during which they attend Broward League of Cities general membership meetings, board of directors meetings and other functions pertaining to the operation of the Broward League. Under the tutelage of the League's Education Committee, students have the opportunity to meet with elected officials and learn the intricacies of governing at the municipal level.

In order to be eligible for the Student Ambassador program, students must be residents of Broward County and attend a Broward County public or charter school. Applications are due by Nov. 18 and can be found on the Broward League of Cities website at http://www.browardleague.org/.

Scholarship for Government Studies

The Broward League also offers scholarships to outstanding high school seniors who plan to attend a college or university to pursue a major in public administration, political science or other government-related field. The Scholarship for Government Studies awards $1,000 each to four students, one from each quadrant of the county in an effort to provide valuable financial support to the future leaders of Broward County.

In order to be eligible for the Scholarship for Government Studies, students must be residents of Broward County and attend a Broward County public or charter school. Applications are due by Feb. 10 and can be found on the Broward League of Cities website at http://www.browardleague.org/.

Fostering Our Community Leaders of Tomorrow

The Broward League of Cities recognizes the value of promoting excellence in education in our community. We encourage parents, educators and friends to urge students interested in public service to apply for these programs. Providing students with a strong foundation in government prepares strong leaders for generations to come.

Incentives Makes Water Conservation Easier

2011-10-29T01:37:00.000-04:00

Water conservation is one of the City of Lauderhill’s top priorities and to help its residents to become their priority too the city became a participating member of the Broward Water Partnership’s Water Conservation and Incentives Program.

The Program, which kicked off Sept. 30, provides rebates and free water-conserving devices to qualifying City of Lauderhill residents. And, its community outreach and education component is designed to encourage year-round water conservation and help make conservation part of residents daily routine.

Together Lauderhill can reach its goal to save water, save money and the environment if residents take advantage of the incentives and rebates and encourage family, neighbors and friends to do so as well.

The Program

The city has created incentives for qualifying residents to make water conservation a way of life by providing rebates and free water-conserving devices. Funding and supplies are limited so don’t delay.

Rebates

Qualifying customers are encouraged to replace their current toilet if it uses more than 1.6 gallons of water per flush with a WaterSense®-approved, High-Eifficiency Toilet (HET). Rebates will be provided for up to $100, or the cost of the HET, whichever is less. Applicants must own their own home, condo or townhouse to participate. Other restrictions apply. Click here to learn more about qualifying and applying for a rebate.

Incentives

Lauderhill is also providing free, low-flow water faucet aerators and showerheads to qualifying residential customers. Residents must bring their old showerhead in order to receive a new showerhead; however, you do not need to bring their old aerators. Click here to learn more about the program including where to pick up your aerators and showerheads.

Business owners haven’t been overlooked. Lauderhill is also offering free, pre-rinse spray valves to qualifying commercial businesses. Click here for more information.

Tropical Storm Rina

2011-10-24T13:00:00.002-04:00

Below is this morning’s weather update from the State Emergency Management Office regarding TS Rina’s forecast.

Summary:

At 11pm ET Sunday, Tropical Depression #18 was upgraded to Tropical Storm Rina with winds of 40mph while located 210 miles south-southwest of Grand Cayman Island in the northwestern Caribbean Sea.

At 8am ET Monday, Tropical Storm Rina was located 135 miles north-northeast of the Nicaragua/Honduras border, which is also approximately 538 miles south of Key West, Florida.

Maximum sustained winds remain near 40 mph and slow strengthening is forecast over the next couple of days due to the influence of wind shear and dry air surrounding the storm.

Environmental conditions could become more favorable later this week and the official forecast has Rina becoming a hurricane by Friday.

Computer models have a wide range of possibilities in regards to the strength and track of Rina. About one-third of the computer models keep Rina a tropical storm through the next 5 days while another one-third has Rina reaching major hurricane status, leaving the remaining one-third (and many of the consensus models) at Category 1 & 2 intensity.

Rina is currently moving toward the north-northwest around 6 mph, but a west to west-northwest movement is forecast through the next 2-3 days as it is steered around the southern edge of a mid-level high pressure system over the U.S. Gulf Coast. However, a northward turn could occur later this week in response to an approaching frontal system moving over the eastern half of the U.S.

Steering currents and the strength and amplitude of the front will play a large role in the track of Tropical Storm Rina and computer models are in disagreement with the track of this storm. About half of the models take the storm westward and inland over Central America within the next day or so while others take the system more north and then northeastward into the Gulf of Mexico.

The computer models that move Rina northeast this weekend are those with a much stronger frontal system moving into the region this weekend. The more reliable computer models are currently forecasting a less progressive frontal passage.

It is still too early to tell if this system will directly impact Florida, but everyone is encouraged to continue to monitor this storm over the next several days.

More information on Tropical Storm Rina can be found at www.nhc.noaa.gov

Yes, We Have Jazz

2011-10-24T00:02:00.004-04:00

The City of Lauderhill is pleased to announce a series of Jazz Concerts, including the 4th season of Jazz Picnic in the Park. All information is tentative, and when the schedule is finalized it will be reported here, at the Lauderhill Jazz web site, and will be sent out in a Newsletter from the Mayor (to sign up go to the Lauderhill Main web site and enter your email under E-Newsletter sign up).

As of this time the schedule is:

BROWARD GREEN EXPO:

Friday, November 18, 2011, from 6 pm to 9 pm, JAZZ SURVIVORS, sponsored by Countyline Chiropractic

JAZZ PICNIC IN THE PARK: (all on the 2nd Sunday from 10:30 am to 2:30 pm)

Sunday, December 11 - Blues Therapy & Jazz

Sunday, January 8 - Sound of Vision sponsored by the Inverrary Association

Sunday, February 12 - Oop Bop Sh'Bam, sponsored by the Inverrary Association

Sunday, March 11 - The Debbie Orta Jazz Quintet, sponsored by the Mental Health Association of Southeast Florida (with a special surprise program)

All concerts are held at the Amphitheatre at Ilene Lieberman Botanical Gardens, 3801 Inverrary Blvd., Lauderhill, next to the Inverrary Hotel. Bring your blankets, chairs, sun umbrellas, and picnic baskets (no cooking allowed). For more information contact 954-730-3000.

Lauderhill Police Department Hosts the 3rd Annual Halloween Safety Day

2011-10-21T00:48:00.001-04:00

International Picture of the Year

2011-10-18T01:12:00.000-04:00

Here are two very touching photos honored this year.
First Place:

First Place
Todd Heisler The Rocky Mountain News

When 2nd Lt. James Cathey's body arrived at the Reno Airport , Marines climbed into the cargo hold of the plane and draped the flag over his casket as passengers watched the family gather on the tarmac.

During the arrival of another Marine's casket last year at Denver International Airport , Major Steve Beck described the scene as so powerful: 'See the people in the windows? They sat right there in the plane, watching those Marines. You gotta wonder what's going through their minds, knowing that they're on the plane that brought him home,' he said 'They will remember being on that plane for the rest of their lives. They're going to remember bringing that Marine home. And they should.'

Second Place

Second Place
Todd Heisler The Rocky Mountain News
The night before the burial of her husband's body, Katherine Cathey refused to leave the casket, asking to sleep next to his body for the last time The Marines made a bed for her, tucking in the sheets below the flag. Before she fell asleep, she opened her laptop computer and played songs that reminded her of 'Cat,' and one of the Marines asked if she wanted them to continue standing watch as she slept. 'I think it would be kind of nice if you kept doing it,' she said. 'I think that's what he would have wanted'.

An Honorable Mention:

Veterans Day Celebration

2011-10-15T00:49:00.000-04:00

City of Lauderhill Celebrates Veterans Day

Veterans Park - 7600 NW 50 Street

Wednesday, November 9 (4 pm)

954-730-3000

Workshop on How to Avoid Home Repair Contractor Fraud

2011-10-12T01:00:00.000-04:00

Broward MPO Awards $3,972,785 for Six Transportation Enhancement Projects

2011-10-09T01:36:00.004-04:00

The Broward MPO approved the award of six Transportation enhancement projects totaling $3,972,785. Previously it was reported that the city was in position to receive one of theses grants. Recently the award was finally granted to the City of Lauderhill and it was awarded $595,283 for a landscaping project on NW 35th Avenue in the Southeast area of the city.

Funds for this project will be programmed in the 2013 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) and available for construction in FY 2014-2015.

Heads Up on MLK Day Event

2011-10-06T00:51:00.000-04:00

The 12^th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration

Diamantes Banquet Hall - 6501 W. Commercial Blvd.

Saturday, January 14, 2012 (7 pm)

954-730-3000

Inverrary Association Annual Fall Golf Classic

2011-10-03T01:37:00.003-04:00

Mark you calendar for the Inverrary Association Annual Fall Golf Classic on Sunday, October 23, 2011, from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM EDT.

Now You can play the famous East Course, where champions like Jack Nicklaus, Johnny Miller, Lee Trevino, Tom Kite, Hale Irwin and Tom Weiskopf have walked and won! Follow in the footsteps of golf legends and be one of the first to play on the newly redesigned Robert Trent Jones, Sr. signature East Course at the Inverrary Country Club, 3840 Inverrary Blvd. in Ft. Lauderdale.

There are a number of sponsorships available for this event on a first-come, first-serve basis. The Annual Fall Golf Classic benefits the scholarship fund of the Inverrary Association, which is dedicated to promoting, encouraging and investing in college education for promising Inverrary resident graduating high school students.

Not only will you be a part of history and contribute to a great cause, but you’ll have a wonderful time. For more information or for answers to your questions about sponsorship opportunities, please call Jaime McCabe, tournament administrator, at 954-851-2561, or email him at Events@PlanAheadEvents-FTL.com.

For more information about the course, visit www.inverraryonline.com.

Lauderhill Receives Coverdell Forensic Science Grant

2011-09-28T01:22:00.000-04:00

The Coverdell Forensic Science Grant is a federal grant that incorporates the new technology of DNA collection and identification. The Lauderhill Police Department has been approved for this grant in the amount of $118,785.00. The funds must be expended within the year period for the following:

Training for Crime Scene personnel
--Crime Scene Processing
--Crime Mapping
--Fingerprint Comparison
--CrimeScope Training

Equipment Purchases
--Forensic light source
--UV light source
--Laser mapping system
--Electronic evidence collection device

Supplies
--Digital camera system
--Digital lenses
--UV camera system
--Metal detectors
--Laser trajectory kit

DNA lab Services (private/local)
--FBI certified

This grant will greatly reduce the backlog of DNA testing and having our own department do the collection. In the past this testing was done through BSO.

Lauderhill Arts Center Reception

2011-09-25T01:41:00.000-04:00

BROWARD SCHOOL BOARD SELECTS NEW SUPERINTENDENT

2011-09-21T00:18:00.001-04:00

The School Board of Broward County has selected Robert Runcie as superintendent of the sixth largest school district in the country. Following final interviews this morning of the two finalists, Runcie and Dr. Bernard Taylor, Jr., Superintendent, Grand Rapids Public Schools, Grand Rapids, Michigan, the Board members held a final discussion and cast their votes. A motion to make the vote for Runcie unanimous was then approved.

Runcie currently serves as Chief of Staff to the Board of Education, Chicago Public Schools, Chicago, Illinois, the third largest school district in the nation, with 410,000 students. He holds both a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Harvard College and Master of Management degree from Northwestern University. He is also a Broad Fellow, having completed an education executive training program presented by the prestigious Broad Superintendents Academy.

In addition to serving the Chicago Public Schools as Chief of Staff, Runcie has also served as Chief Instructional Officer, Chief Administrative Officer and Chief Information Officer. Prior to joining Chicago Public Schools, he served as a senior consultant for a computer science corporation.

From an applicant pool of 47, the Board selected six semi-finalists to be interviewed. That field was then narrowed to Runcie and Taylor. Prior to their final interviews, the finalists took part in one-on-one interviews with Board members, participated in a “Meet the Press” news conference, a “Meet and Greet” with community members and a Community Forum.

The School Board has authorized contract negotiations with Robert Runcie. His start date as Broward’s new superintendent has yet to be determined.

Notes from the Special Meeting of Sept. 12, CRA Meeting and Regular Meeting of Sept. 14

2011-09-18T01:15:00.012-04:00

On September 12 and 14, the Commission conducted several meetings. The following are notes of interest from those meetings (all items passed unanimously unless otherwise indicated, and not all items heard by the Commission are listed):

SPECIAL MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 12:

ORDINANCES & PUBLIC HEARINGS ----- SECOND READING:

1. ORDINANCE NO. 11O-08-152: AUTHORIZING A TAXABLE LOAN IN THE AGGREGATE PRINCIPAL AMOUNT OF NOT EXCEEDING $6,100,000 TO BE APPLIED, TOGETHER WITH OTHER LEGALLY AVAILABLE FUNDS OF THE CITY, FOR THE PURPOSES OF FINANCING A LUMP SUM PAYMENT TO BE MADE TO CITY POLICE DEPARTMENT EMPLOYEES FOR ACCRUED VACATION PAY, FINANCING THE COST OF ACQUIRING, CONSTRUCTING, EQUIPPING AND IMPROVING VARIOUS PUBLIC IMPROVEMENTS FOR THE WINDERMERE/TREE GARDENS SAFE NEIGHBORHOOD IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT, FINANCING THE COST OF ACQUIRING, CONSTRUCTING AND IMPROVING A PORTION OF THE PUBLIC IMPROVEMENTS AS SET FORTH IN THE CITY’S FIVE-YEAR CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PLAN; PLEDGING THE REVENUES RECEIVED BY THE CITY FROM THE LEVY AND COLLECTION OF THE CITY’S COMMUNICATIONS SERVICE TAX TO PAYMENT OF THE AMOUNTS DUE UNDER THE LOAN AGREEMENT AND PROMISSORY NOTE; AWARDING THE LOAN TO BANK OF AMERICA, N.A. PURSUANT TO A NEGOTIATED SALE.

2. ORDINANCE NO. 11O-08-153: AUTHORIZING A TAX-EXEMPT LOAN IN THE AGGREGATE PRINCIPAL AMOUNT OF NOT EXCEEDING $5,095,000 TO BE APPLIED, TOGETHER WITH OTHER LEGALLY AVAILABLE FUNDS OF THE CITY, FOR THE PURPOSES OF FINANCING THE COST OF ACQUIRING, CONSTRUCTING AND IMPROVING A PORTION OF VARIOUS PUBLIC IMPROVEMENTS AS SET FORTH IN THE CITY’S FIVE-YEAR CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PLAN; PLEDGING THE REVENUES RECEIVED BY THE CITY FROM THE LEVY AND COLLECTION OF THE CITY’S COMMUNICATIONS SERVICE TAX TO PAYMENT OF THE AMOUNTS DUE UNDER THE LOAN AGREEMENT AND PROMISSORY NOTE; AWARDING THE LOAN TO JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, N.A. PURSUANT TO A NEGOTIATED SALE.

RESOLUTIONS

3. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-09-161: APPROVING THE SECOND AMENDMENT TO THE OPERATING AND LEASE AGREEMENT BETWEEN BROWARD COUNTY AND THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL FOR THE LEASE OF REAL PROPERTY FOR DESIGN, DEVELOPMENT, CONSTRUCTION, OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE OF A CULTURAL CENTER AND LIBRARY IMMEDIATELY ADJACENT TO CENTRAL BROWARD REGIONAL PARK; PROVIDING FOR THE CITY TO RECEIVE INTEREST IN THE AMOUNT OF $397,287.52.

4. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-09-162: APPROVING THE AGREEMENT TO

REINSTATE AND EXTEND FOR PAYMENT, THE 2005 COMMUNITY

DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT (“CDBG”) DRI SUPPLEMENTAL GRANT

FUNDS RELATING TO SA #10 MULTI-FAMILY REHAB/HARDENING IN THE AMOUNT OF $1,015,331.31.

5. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-09-163: APPROVING THE AGREEMENT TO REINSTATE AND EXTEND FOR PAYMENT, THE 2005 COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT (“CDBG”) DRI SUPPLEMENTAL GRANT FUNDS RELATING TO SA #9 SINGLE-FAMILY REHAB/REHARDENING IN THE AMOUNT OF $338,443.00.

CRA MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 14:

1. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-09-08: ADOPTING THE BUDGET FOR FISCAL YEAR 2012 IN THE TOTAL AMOUNT OF $241,697.00 FOR THE COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY (CRA) WHICH SHALL BE INCORPORATED INTO THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL BUDGET FOR FISCAL YEAR 2012.

2. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-09-09: APPROVING A PROMISSORY NOTE IN THE AMOUNT OF $2,528,575.49 BETWEEN THE COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY (“CRA”) AND THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL WATER AND SEWER ENTERPRISE FUND FOR THE AMOUNT FINANCED THROUGH THE BANK OF AMERICA REFINANCED LINE OF CREDIT.

3) RCP LOAN APPLICATION FOR NW 55 AVENUE - We are looking at 7 acres, plus some other land. Placed an offer which was counteroffered. Unfortunately, it exceeded the appraisal and we will not pursue unless they want to accept our original offer. We have an offer on another property and are waiting to hear.

4) CODE ENFORCEMENT ACTIONS IN CRA AREAS - Collection of code liens were going up from prior years, but now they are starting to go down since the easy liens were taken care of. The more difficult ones are being addressed.

5) INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS INCUBATOR RELOCATION - Relocation completed, and new tenants coming in. Costs are less at new location so we have sufficient funds, and have a few microloans applications available. Expo coming up on Oct. 6.

6) NEW BUSINESS - none

REGULAR COMMISSION MEETING WHICH WAS MOVED TO SEPTEMBER 14:

PUBLIC HEARINGS ----- FIRST READING:

1. ORDINANCE NO. 11O-09-166: SETTING AND ADOPTING THE 2011-2012 PROPERTY TAX LEVY FOR THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL AT THE OPERATING MILLAGE RATE OF $6.8198 PER ONE THOUSAND DOLLARS ($1,000); SETTING AND ADOPTING THE 2011-2012 VOTED DEBT SERVICE MILLAGE AT A RATE OF $1.2751 PER ONE THOUSAND DOLLARS ($1,000).

2. ORDINANCE NO. 11O-09-167: MAKING APPROPRIATIONS FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCING OCTOBER 1, 2011 AND ENDING SEPTEMBER 30, 2012, BASED ON THE BUDGET ESTIMATE OF EXPENDITURES AND REVENUES THAT EQUAL $11,981,384.00; ADOPTING THE OPERATING BUDGET FOR THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDING SEPTEMBER 30, 2012.

3. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-09-173: ADOPTING THE TENTATIVE PROPERTY TAX LEVY FOR THE WINDERMERE/TREE GARDENS SAFE NEIGHBORHOOD IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT AT THE PROPOSED MILLAGE RATE OF 2.0 MILLS FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCING OCTOBER 1, 2011 AND ENDING SEPTEMBER 30, 2012; ADOPTING THE PROPOSED NON-AD VALOREM SPECIAL ASSESSMENT IN THE AMOUNT OF $500.00 PER PARCEL OF LAND PER YEAR FOR THE WINDERMERE/TREE GARDENS SAFE NEIGHBORHOOD IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCING OCTOBER 1, 2011 AND ENDING SEPTEMBER 30, 2012.

4. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-09-175: ADOPTING THE TENTATIVE PROPERTY TAX LEVY FOR THE ISLES OF INVERRARY SAFE NEIGHBORHOOD IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT AT THE PROPOSED MILLAGE RATE OF 2.0 MILLS FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCING OCTOBER 1, 2011 AND ENDING SEPTEMBER 30, 2012; ADOPTING THE PROPOSED NON-AD VALOREM SPECIAL ASSESSMENT IN THE AMOUNT OF $500.00 PER PARCEL OF LAND PER YEAR FOR THE ISLES OF INVERRARY SAFE NEIGHBORHOOD IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCING OCTOBER 1, 2011 AND ENDING SEPTEMBER 30, 2012.

5. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-09-177: ADOPTING THE TENTATIVE PROPERTY TAX LEVY FOR THE MANORS OF INVERRARY SAFE NEIGHBORHOOD IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT AT THE PROPOSED MILLAGE RATE OF 0.0 MILLS FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCING OCTOBER 1, 2011 AND ENDING SEPTEMBER 30, 2012; ADOPTING THE PROPOSED NON-AD VALOREM SPECIAL ASSESSMENT IN THE AMOUNT OF $123.18 FOR THE MASTER ASSOCIATION PLUS$280 FOR CONDO I ONLY PER PARCEL OF LAND PER YEAR FOR THE MANORS OF INVERRARY SAFE NEIGHBORHOOD IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCING OCTOBER 1, 2011 AND ENDING SEPTEMBER 30, 2012.

6. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-09-179: ADOPTING THE TENTATIVE PROPERTY TAX LEVY FOR THE HABITAT SAFE NEIGHBORHOOD IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT ADOPTING THE PROPOSED NON- AD VALOREM SPECIAL ASSESSMENT IN THE AMOUNT OF $250.00 PER PARCEL OF LAND PER YEAR FOR THE HABITAT SAFE NEIGHBORHOOD IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCING OCTOBER 1, 2011 AND ENDING SEPTEMBER 30, 2012.

7. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-09-181: ADOPTING THE TENTATIVE BUDGET FOR FISCAL YEAR 2012 FOR THE COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY (CRA) WHICH SHALL BE INCORPORATED INTO THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL BUDGET FOR FISCAL YEAR 2012.

ORDINANCES & PUBLIC HEARINGS ----- FIRST READING:

8. ORDINANCE NO. 11O-09-169: AMENDING THE CODE OF ORDINANCES CHAPTER 21, WATER AND SEWER SERVICE, STORM WATER MINIMUM CHARGE/AVAILABILITY CHARGE TO APPROVE A 15 % INCREASE IN STORM WATER RATES; PROVIDING THAT SAID RATES AND CHARGES ARE NECESSARY TO COVER THE COSTS OF PROVIDING SAID SERVICES AND ARE IMPLEMENTED TO PROCEED WITH A 5-YEAR CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PLAN TO UTILIZE A PAY AS YOU GO METHODOLOGY FOR REPAIR AND REPLACEMENT TO ENSURE APPROPRIATE DEBT COVENANT COVERAGE AND TO GIVE THE CITY FLEXIBILITY TO UTILIZE OPERATING CAPITAL TO PAY FOR CANAL IMPROVEMENTS RATHER THAN TO BE REQUIRED TO INCUR ADDITIONAL DEBT; PROVIDING FOR THE NEW RATE STRUCTURE TO COMMENCE OCTOBER 1, 2011.

ORDINANCES & PUBLIC HEARINGS --- SECOND READING:

9. ORDINANCE NO. 11O-08-147: AMENDING THE CODE OF ORDINANCES, CHAPTER 8½, EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT, SECTION 8½-4, EMERGENCY POWERS, TO MODIFY PROVISIONS REGARDING THE POSSESSION OR DISPLAY OF FIREARMS OR WEAPONS IN ACCORDANCE WITH FLORIDA STATUTES (REQUESTED BY MAYOR RICHARD J. KAPLAN).

10. ORDINANCE NO. 11O-08-156: AMENDING THE CODE OF ORDINANCES CHAPTER 21, WATER AND SEWER SERVICE, SCHEDULE OF RATES AND CHARGES, TO APPROVE AN INCREASE OF 3.6% IN WATER AND SEWER RATES BASED UPON THE CONSUMER PRICE INDEX FOR INFLATION; PROVIDING THAT SAID RATES AND CHARGES ARE NECESSARY TO COVER THE COSTS OF PROVIDING SAID SERVICES AND ARE IMPLEMENTED TO PROCEED WITH A 5-YEAR CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PLAN TO UTILIZE A PAY AS YOU GO METHODOLOGY FOR REPAIR AND REPLACEMENT.

11. ORDINANCE NO. 11O-08-157: APPROVING AN AMENDMENT TO UPDATE THE CITY’S CURRENT INVESTMENT POLICY.

12. ORDINANCE NO. 11O-08-158: APPROVING A BUDGET TRANSFER IN THE TOTAL AMOUNT OF $2,263,540.00 TO BALANCE THE GENERAL FUND EXPENDITURES FOR THE FISCAL YEAR 2011 BUDGET.

RESOLUTIONS

ADMINISTRATION

13. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-09-182: APPROVING THE FOURTH AMENDMENT TO OPTION AND LEASE AGREEMENT BETWEEN CROWN CASTLE SOUTH, L.L.C., ON BEHALF OF NEW CINGULAR WIRELESS PCS, LLC., AND THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL TO EXTEND THE TERM OF THE CURRENT GROUND LEASE AGREEMENT FOR ITS TELECOMMUNICATIONS SITE LOCATED AT 2000 CITY HALL DRIVE (BU# 812072) FOR FOUR (4) ADDITIONAL FIVE (5) YEAR RENEWALS.

COMMISSION

14. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-09-183: REQUESTING THAT THE STATE LEGISLATURE AMEND OR REPEAL FLORIDA STATUTE, SECTION 790.33; PROVIDING THAT FLORIDA STATUTE, SECTION 790.33 PREEMPTS LOCAL GOVERNMENT AUTHORITY TO REGULATE FIREARMS AND AMMUNITION; PROVIDING THAT THE STATUTE SHOULD BE AMENDED TO ALLOW EACH COUNTY THE OPTION TO HAVE A REFERENDUM VOTE OF THE ELECTORATE TO DETERMINE WHETHER LOCAL GOVERNMENT CAN ADOPT FIREARMS REGULATIONS (REQUESTED BY COMMISSIONER HAYWARD J. BENSON, JR.).

FINANCE

15. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-09-184: APPROVING THE RANKING OF #1 S. DAVIS & ASSOCIATES, #2 GLSC & COMPANY, #3 HARVEY COVINGTON, TO PROVIDE THE ANNUAL AUDIT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2011; PROVIDING THAT ASSOCIATED COSTS SHALL NOT EXCEED $85,000.00; PROVIDING FOR PAYMENT FROM BUDGET CODE NUMBER 001-131-03210.

16. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-09-185: APPROVING AND ADOPTING THE AMENDMENT TO THE 2011-2013 LOCAL HOUSING ASSISTANCE PLAN (LHAP) FOR THE STATE HOUSING INITIATIVE PROGRAM (SHIP) TO OFFER DOWNPAYMENT ASSISTANCE OPPORTUNITIES TO A LARGER NUMBER OF RESIDENTS.

17. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-09-186: APPROVING A PROMISSORY NOTE IN THE AMOUNT OF $5,258,805.74 BETWEEN THE LAUDERHILL HOUSING AUTHORITY AND THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL WATER AND SEWER ENTERPRISE FUND FOR THE AMOUNT FINANCED THROUGH THE BANK OF AMERICA REFINANCED LINE OF CREDIT.

18. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-09-187: APPROVING A PROMISSORY NOTE IN THE AMOUNT OF $2,528,575.49 BETWEEN THE COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY (“CRA”) AND THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL WATER AND SEWER ENTERPRISE FUND FOR THE AMOUNT FINANCED THROUGH THE BANK OF AMERICA REFINANCED LINE OF CREDIT.

FIRE

19. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-09-192: RESCINDING AND REPLACING RESOLUTION NUMBER 11R-08-149; AWARDING THE BID TO ROSSMAN ENTERPRISES, INC. D/B/A CLEAN AIR CONCEPTS IN THE AMOUNT OF $65,406.00 TO PERFORM THE INSTALLATION OF DIESEL EXHAUST REMOVAL SYSTEMS AT EACH OF THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL’S THREE PERMANENT FIRE STATIONS; PROVIDING FOR FEDERAL GRANT FUNDING FROM THE ASSISTANCE TO FIREFIGHTERS GRANT #EMW-2009-FO-04824 IN THE AMOUNT OF $66,000.00; PROVIDING FOR CITY MATCHING FUNDS IN THE AMOUNT OF $13,081.20; PROVIDING FOR PAYMENT FROM VARIOUS BUDGET CODE NUMBERS.

The City of Lauderhill Proudly Announces Andrew Smalling as the City's New Police Chief

2011-09-15T00:14:00.003-04:00

A Swearing-In Ceremony & Reception will take place in City Hall's Commission Chambers on Thursday, 09/15 at 10:00 am. Chief Smalling takes over as Police Chief from Kenneth Pachnek who served this role for almost (11) years.

While Chief Smalling has been transitioning into this role in the City of Lauderhill for the past few months, it is not unfamiliar territory for him. Chief Smalling has served the last 19 1/2 years with the Broward Sheriff's Office in several different agency positions.

He was a School Resource Officer, a Narcotics Detective, and the K-9 Unit Commander at one point. His career with the Sheriff's Office culminated in his appointment as the Police Chief at Lauderdale Lakes for the past (11) years. This vast leadership role as well as his Marine Corps success as an Intelligence Officer will surely be an asset to the Lauderhill Police Department. Chief Smalling is very familiar with the City of Lauderhill having served our neighboring community for the past decade.

Join us this Thursday, September 15th at 10 am as the City of Lauderhill welcomes our new Police Chief Andrew Smalling.

For more information regarding the Ceremony, please call 954.730.3000.

Supervisor of Elections to Begin Required Voter Rolls Clean Up

2011-09-12T01:15:00.004-04:00

As required by Florida Statute, the Supervisor of Election must protect the integrity of the electoral process by ensuring the voter registration records are accurate and current. Consequently, in odd numbered years a removal of voters who have not voted in the last two Federal elections is performed. The affected voters have been sent three mailings requesting confirmation of the information as to their current residential address, however, no response was returned or the mailing was retuned undelivered by the Post Office. The 2011 maintenance will occur in September and affect approximately 150,000 voters currently in an inactive status.

Voters may contact the Supervisor of Elections office by phone at (954)357-7050 or at one the SOE sites listed below if they believe they are in the affected group.

Main Office

115 S. Andrews Ave., Rm. 102, Fort Lauderdale; (954)357-7050; M-F 8:30-5:00

Voting Equipment Center

1501 NW 40 Avenue, Lauderhill; (954)712-1903; M-F 8:30-5:00

E. Pat Larkins Center

1520 NW 3 Street, Pompano Beach; (954)357-7050; Tues. and Thurs. 1:00-6:00

Changes are Announced to Lauderhill's Lien Searches

2011-09-09T01:36:00.000-04:00

In response to several inquiries received from real estate companies and title firms for expedited lien searches, the Finance Department has conducted an analysis of the City’s lien search program in relation to other cities with regards to cost and turnaround time.

In April 2011, staff evaluated 11 neighboring municipalities to compare the City’s fee structure and found that the average lien search fee is $47 and the average turnaround time for lien searches is 7.818 business days or 1 ½ weeks. Additionally, four cities are offering an expedited lien search with fees ranging from $50 to $125.

Currently, the City of Lauderhill charges $30 for lien requests and the average turnaround time is 14 calendar days. The following areas are researched for outstanding balances when completing the lien search: SHIP, CDBG, HOME, NSP, Recorded Liens in Broward County (including Association liens), Code Enforcement Violations and Liens, Certificate of Use, Miscellaneous Billing (Board Up, Sidewalk, Pool Services, Fence Services, Lot Clearing, Fire Inspections, Alarm Billing) and Utilities.

In order to accommodate a faster response time there will be a restructuring to the City’s current program which would incorporate the following:

1) Increase the regular lien search fee from $30 to $50 (Complete within 7 business days)

2) Include an express lien search fee of $100 (Complete within 24-48 hours)

3) Implement an online lien request form

4) Create an escrow account program for title companies

The City of Lauderhill strives to offer exemplary customer service to its citizens and all companies that do business here. As such, the proposal to reduce the turnaround time on lien requests includes the implementation of the online lien request form and the creation of an escrow account program. The former will allow individuals and companies to complete a one-time online lien request form that will be processed by staff within the required time frame, and the latter will enable companies that do a large volume of lien requests to have escrow accounts created by the City for their convenience.

These companies will provide a deposit by check to the City for the escrowed funds and receive a monthly statement which details all lien search charges deducted from their account. The MIS Division will assist the Finance Department in establishing the online lien request and escrow account program, and there is no additional staffing cost associated with developing or maintaining the program.

Broward County to Launch New Appliance Rebate Program

2011-09-06T00:31:00.004-04:00

Residents and Businesses Encouraged to Switch to Energy Efficient Appliances.

Broward County is offering the ENERGY SENSE Appliance Rebate Program to County residents and small to medium-sized businesses to encourage replacement of an old appliance with a new more energy efficient appliance. Up to $400,000 is available in rebates to eligible participants. The County expects 1,200 to 2,000 rebates to be issued to residents and 100 to 450 rebates to businesses.

The program is part of a $1.24 million Energy Efficiency Conservation Block Grant awarded by the State and funded through the United States Department of Energy to help residents and businesses make the transition to more efficient appliances that will reduce overall energy consumption in the County while stimulating the economy and saving participants money on their utility bills.

Eligible ENERGY STAR appliances for residents include:

Residential Refrigerators - Receive $150 for refrigerators under 20 cubic feet but at least 7.75 cubic feet in volume or $250 for refrigerators 20 cubic feet or greater in volume. (ENERGY STAR freezers and compact refrigerators are excluded.)

Residential Clothes Washer- Receive $150 for all sizes of washing machines.
Eligible

ENERGY STAR appliances for businesses include:

Commercial Grade Refrigerator- Receive 20% of equipment cost up to a maximum of $1,000.

Commercial Grade Freezer- Receive 20% of equipment cost up to a maximum of $1,000.
Interested applicants must pre-register to reserve funds.

Pre-registration will open from September 7 to 28 for businesses and from September 26 to October 10 for residents or until all funds are reserved. Rebates will be available on a first come, first served basis. All application packets must be mailed and postmarked by November 4, 2011.

The County anticipates funds will be reserved quickly due to a large interest in energy conserving appliances. Interested businesses should begin exploring ENERGY STAR options and vendors as soon as possible and gather the required information before pre-registration begins. Residents should review program guidelines and consider their Energy Star options.

Because the rebate program is directed toward replacement appliances, old appliances will need to be recycled or disposed of according to federal, state and local laws and regulations. Proper removal and disposal of appliances will alleviate emissions and ozone depleting substances and greenhouse gases from refrigerants.

The Broward County Energy and Sustainability Program will hold numerous information sessions throughout the County in preparation for the launch of the programs. For more information on the ENERGY SENSE Appliance Rebate Program or other rebates, visit www.broward.org/gogreen and click REBATE PROGRAMS or call 954-357-REB8 (7328) or email ENERGYSENSE@broward.org.

EDITOR'S NOTE: Lauderhill has an up to $2000 interest free energy loan for residential purchase of energy star appliances for Lauderhill Residents. The grant for Residents above may qualify for the loan. For more information go to the Lauderhill Green Web Site.

9/11 10th Anniversary Recognized

2011-09-03T00:20:00.004-04:00

In the City of Lauderhill, there will be several 9/11 events that the public is invited to:

At the main fire station on 56th Avenue, at 8:30 am, join us as we pay tribute to First Responders, as well as local and national heroes on the 10th anniversary of the terrorist attacks. Be a part of this patriotic day with inspiring words from our guest speaker and a moment of silence for fallen victims and heroes.

Light refreshments will be served.

For more information, please call 954-730-2950.

Then from 2 to 4 pm at Martin Luther King Elementary, 591 NW 31st Ave., another tribute to First Responders, active duty military and veterans will take place. Part of the program will include service projects and family-fun activities.

For more information contact Sander Schrantz, sander@volbrow.org, or 954-233-1300.

Finally, Lauderhill will be part of a national effort that at 1:00 pm our First Responders will be ringing bells and sounding their sirens for one full minute in recognition of the day.

Notes of the Regular Commission Meeting of August 29

2011-08-31T00:41:00.024-04:00

On August 29, the City Commission held its Regular Commission Meeting, and the following are items of interest that were discussed (all items voted upon were unanimous unless otherwise indicated):

PUBLIC HEARINGS AS ADVERTISED IN THE SUN-SENTINEL ON THE 6TH OF AUG., 2011.

1. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-08-134: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL, FLORIDA DIRECTING CITY ADMINISTRATION TO RESEARCH AND BRING BACK RECOMMENDATIONS TO THE CITY COMMISSION ON RECURRING NON-PROPERTY TAX FUNDED SOLUTIONS SPECIFICALLY FOR PUBLIC COMMUNITY SHUTTLE SERVICES AND IN GENERAL FOR ANY TRANSPORTATION IMPROVEMENT OR SERVICE (REQUESTED BY MAYOR RICHARD J. KAPLAN).

ORDINANCES & PUBLIC HEARINGS ----- FIRST READING:

2. ORDINANCE NO. 11O-08-147: AMENDING THE CODE OF ORDINANCES, CHAPTER 8½, EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT, SECTION 8½-4, EMERGENCY POWERS, TO MODIFY PROVISIONS REGARDING THE POSSESSION OR DISPLAY OF FIREARMS OR WEAPONS IN ACCORDANCE WITH FLORIDA STATUTES (REQUESTED BY MAYOR RICHARD J. KAPLAN).

3. ORDINANCE NO. 11O-08-150: AMENDING THE LAND DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS schedule m, minimum housing quality standards; creating section 1.13, conformance with federal standards.

4. ORDINANCE NO. 11O-08-151: AMENDING THE LAND DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS and pertaining to public school concurrency; creating Land Development Regulations Article Iv, development review requirements, Part 7.0., concurrency determination, section 7.4, adequacy of school sites and facilities.

5. ORDINANCE NO. 11O-08-152: AUTHORIZING A TAXABLE LOAN IN THE AGGREGATE PRINCIPAL AMOUNT OF NOT EXCEEDING $6,100,000 TO BE APPLIED, TOGETHER WITH OTHER LEGALLY AVAILABLE FUNDS OF THE CITY, FOR THE PURPOSES OF FINANCING A LUMP SUM PAYMENT TO BE MADE TO CITY POLICE DEPARTMENT EMPLOYEES FOR ACCRUED VACATION PAY, FINANCING THE COST OF ACQUIRING, CONSTRUCTING, EQUIPPING AND IMPROVING VARIOUS PUBLIC IMPROVEMENTS FOR THE WINDERMERE/TREE GARDENS SAFE NEIGHBORHOOD IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT, AS MORE FULLY DESCRIBED HEREIN, FINANCING THE COST OF ACQUIRING, CONSTRUCTING AND IMPROVING A PORTION OF THE PUBLIC IMPROVEMENTS AS SET FORTH IN THE CITY’S FIVE-YEAR CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PLAN, AS ADOPTED FROM TIME TO TIME, AND PAYING COSTS OF ISSUANCE OF THE TAXABLE LOAN; APPROVING A FORM, AND AUTHORIZING EXECUTION AND DELIVERY, OF A LOAN AGREEMENT WITH BANK OF AMERICA, N.A. AND THE EXECUTION AND DELIVERY OF A PROMISSORY NOTE IN CONNECTION THEREWITH; PLEDGING THE REVENUES RECEIVED BY THE CITY FROM THE LEVY AND COLLECTION OF THE CITY’S COMMUNICATIONS SERVICE TAX TO PAYMENT OF THE AMOUNTS DUE UNDER THE LOAN AGREEMENT AND PROMISSORY NOTE, ON A PARITY WITH CERTAIN OTHER OBLIGATIONS AS SET FORTH HEREIN; AWARDING THE LOAN TO BANK OF AMERICA, N.A. PURSUANT TO A NEGOTIATED SALE.

6. ORDINANCE NO. 11O-08-153: AUTHORIZING A TAX-EXEMPT LOAN IN THE AGGREGATE PRINCIPAL AMOUNT OF NOT EXCEEDING $5,095,000 TO BE APPLIED, TOGETHER WITH OTHER LEGALLY AVAILABLE FUNDS OF THE CITY, FOR THE PURPOSES OF FINANCING THE COST OF ACQUIRING, CONSTRUCTING AND IMPROVING A PORTION OF VARIOUS PUBLIC IMPROVEMENTS AS SET FORTH IN THE CITY’S FIVE-YEAR CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PLAN, AS ADOPTED FROM TIME TO TIME, AND PAYING COSTS OF ISSUANCE OF THE TAX-EXEMPT LOAN; APPROVING A FORM, AND AUTHORIZING EXECUTION AND DELIVERY, OF A LOAN AGREEMENT WITH JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, N.A.; PLEDGING THE REVENUES RECEIVED BY THE CITY FROM THE LEVY AND COLLECTION OF THE CITY’S COMMUNICATIONS SERVICE TAX TO PAYMENT OF THE AMOUNTS DUE UNDER THE LOAN AGREEMENT AND PROMISSORY NOTE, AWARDING THE LOAN TO JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, N.A. PURSUANT TO A NEGOTIATED SALE.

7. ORDINANCE NO. 11O-08-154: AMENDING THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL CODE OF ORDINANCES, CHAPTER 2, ADMINISTRATION, ARTICLE II, OFFICERS AND EMPLOYEES, DIVISION 4, NUISANCE ABATEMENT; AMENDING SECTION 2-88.52, PROCEDURES; AMENDING SECTION 2-88.53, PUBLIC NUISANCE ABATEMENT, RELATIVE TO PROCEDURES AND THE HEARING PROCESS.

8. ORDINANCE NO. 11O-08-155: AMENDING THE CODE OF ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL, CHAPTER 12, BUSINESS REGULATIONS, ARTICLE I, IN GENERAL, SECTION 12-3, CERTIFICATE OF USE AND LOCAL BUSINESS TAX RECEIPT REQUIRED; PENALTY FOR VIOLATION; ENFORCEMENT TO ADD A PROHIBTION FOR UNAUTHORIZED AND ILLEGAL BUSINESSES.

9. ORDINANCE NO. 11O-08-156: AMENDING THE CODE OF ORDINANCES CHAPTER 21, WATER AND SEWER SERVICE, ARTICLE IV, DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL AND ENGINEERING SERVICES RULES, REGULATIONS, AND RATES; AMENDING SECTION 21-47, SCHEDULE OF RATES AND CHARGES, TO APPROVE AN INCREASE OF 3.6% IN WATER AND SEWER RATES BASED UPON THE CONSUMER PRICE INDEX FOR INFLATION; PROVIDING THAT SAID RATES AND CHARGES ARE NECESSARY TO COVER THE COSTS OF PROVIDING SAID SERVICES AND ARE IMPLEMENTED TO PROCEED WITH A 5-YEAR CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PLAN TO UTILIZE A PAY AS YOU GO METHODOLOGY FOR REPAIR AND REPLACEMENT; PROVIDING FOR THE NEW RATE STRUCTURE TO COMMENCE OCTOBER 1, 2011.

10. ORDINANCE NO. 11O-08-157: APPROVING AN AMENDMENT TO UPDATE THE CITY’S CURRENT INVESTMENT POLICY.

11. ORDINANCE NO. 11O-08-158: APPROVING A BUDGET TRANSFER IN THE TOTAL AMOUNT OF $2,263,540.00 TO BALANCE THE GENERAL FUND EXPENDITURES FOR THE FISCAL YEAR 2011 BUDGET; PROVIDING VARIOUS BUDGET CODE NUMBERS.

ORDINANCES & PUBLIC HEARINGS --- SECOND READING:

12. ORDINANCE NO. 11O-08-144: AUTHORIZING A TAX-EXEMPT LOAN IN THE AGGREGATE PRINCIPAL AMOUNT OF NOT EXCEEDING $4,905,000 AND A TAXABLE LOAN IN THE AGGREGATE PRINCIPAL AMOUNT OF NOT EXCEEDING $4,905,000 FOR THE PURPOSE OF REFINANCING THE CITY’S EXISTING LINES OF CREDIT WITH BANK OF AMERICA, N.A., THE PROCEEDS OF WHICH WERE USED TO ACQUIRE, CONSTRUCT, IMPROVE, EQUIP, REPAIR AND RENOVATE VARIOUS PUBLIC FACILITIES; PURSUANT TO A NEGOTIATED SALE.

13. ORDINANCE NO. 11O-08-145: PROVIDING FOR THE ISSUANCE OF ITS $2,595,000 HALF-CENT SALES TAX REFUNDING REVENUE BONDS, SERIES 2011A AND ITS $3,700,000 HALF-CENT SALES TAX REFUNDING REVENUE BONDS, SERIES 2011B, IN EACH CASE, AS REFUNDING BONDS UNDER ORDINANCE NO. 96-110 ENACTED ON APRIL 29, 1996; AUTHORIZING THE PROCEEDS OF THE SERIES 2011A BONDS TO BE APPLIED, TOGETHER WITH OTHER LEGALLY AVAILABLE FUNDS OF THE CITY, TO REFUND, ON A CURRENT BASIS, THE CITY’S OUTSTANDING HALF-CENT SALES TAX REVENUE BONDS, SERIES 1998 MATURING AFTER OCTOBER 1, 2011; AUTHORIZING THE PROCEEDS OF THE SERIES 2011B BONDS TO BE APPLIED, TOGETHER WITH OTHER LEGALLY AVAILABLE FUNDS OF THE CITY, TO REFUND, ON A CURRENT BASIS, THE CITY’S OUTSTANDING HALF-CENT SALES TAX REVENUE BONDS, SERIES 2001 MATURING AFTER OCTOBER 1, 2011; AUTHORIZING THE APPLICATION OF AMOUNTS ON DEPOSIT IN THE RESERVE SUBACCOUNTS ESTABLISHED FOR THE OUTSTANDING HALF-CENT SALES TAX REVENUE BONDS, SERIES 1998 AND HALF-CENT SALES TAX REVENUE BONDS, SERIES 2001 TO PAY COSTS OF ISSUANCE OF THE SERIES 2011A BONDS AND SERIES 2011B BONDS AND COSTS OF PUBLIC IMPROVEMENTS INCLUDED IN THE CITY’S FIVE-YEAR CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM, AS ADOPTED FROM TIME TO TIME; PROVIDING FOR THE TERMS OF SUCH SERIES 2011 BONDS; AWARDING THE SALE OF THE SERIES 2011 BONDS TO BRANCH BANKING AND TRUST COMPANY PURSUANT TO A NEGOTIATED SALE; APPOINTING THE CITY AS PAYING AGENT AND REGISTRAR FOR THE SERIES 2011 BONDS.

14. ORDINANCE NO. 11O-08-146: AMENDING THE CODE OF ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL, CHAPTER 12, BUSINESS REGULATIONS, ARTICLE II, CERTIFICATE OF USE AND LOCAL BUSINESS TAX RECEIPT, SECTION 12-33, DUE DATES; PENALTIES FOR DELINQUENT PAYMENT TO PROVIDE FOR MONTHLY DELINQUENCY PENALTIES AND 150 DAYS TIMEFRAME TO BE SUBJECT TO CIVIL CITATIONS IN ACCORDANCE WITH FLORIDA STATUTES; AMENDING SECTION 12-57, BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT FEE, TO INCREASE THE FEE.

RESOLUTIONS

ADMINISTRATION

15. 15. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-08-137: APPROVING THE LEASE AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL AND THE WINDERMERE/TREE GARDENS SAFE NEIGHBORHOOD IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT REGARDING THE IMPROVEMENTS CONSTRUCTED WITHIN THE DISTRICT AREA; PROVIDING TERMS, CONDITIONS AND FEES; AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION OF SAID AGREEMENT.

16. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-08-138: APPROVING THE LEASE AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE LAUDERHILL HOUSING AUTHORITY AND THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL TO LET CERTAIN PARCELS OF LAND LOCATED WITHIN THE WINDERMERE/TREE GARDENS SAFE NEIGHBORHOOD IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT AREA THAT ARE OWNED BY THE LAUDERHILL HOUSING AUTHORITY TO THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL AND AUTHORIZING THE CONSTRUCTION OF CERTAIN SAFE NEIGHBORHOOD IMPROVEMENTS ON SAID PROPERTY.

FINANCE

17. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-08-142: RANKING THE SELECTION OF AUDIT SERVICES FIRMS FOR FISCAL YEARS 2011, 2012 AND 2013; AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO NEGOTIATE AN AGREEMENT WITH THE SELECTED TOP 3 FIRMS AS FOLLOWS: ________________, _____________, _________________IN DESCENDING ORDER AS NECESSARY UNTIL AN AGREEMENT IS REACHED. Withdrawn.

18. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-08-143: APPROVING THE FORM, AND AUTHORIZING EXECUTION AND DELIVERY, OF AN INTEREST RATE LOCK AGREEMENT WITH JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, N.A. IN CONNECTION WITH THE CITY’S REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS FROM A QUALIFIED FINANCIAL INSTITUTION TO PROVIDE A TAX-EXEMPT LOAN TO FINANCE, TOGETHER WITH OTHER LEGALLY AVAILABLE FUNDS OF THE CITY, A PORTION OF THE COST OF ACQUIRING, CONSTRUCTING AND IMPROVING VARIOUS PUBLIC IMPROVEMENTS AS SET FORTH IN THE CITY’S FIVE-YEAR CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PLAN, AS ADOPTED FROM TIME TO TIME, AND PAYING COSTS OF ISSUANCE OF THE TAX-EXEMPT LOAN.

19. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-08-144: APPROVING A policy to authorize the release of liens and waiver of oustanding balances for grant funding awarded under the ”nsp”, “ship”, “CDBG”, and “HOME” funding programs. Withdrawn.

20. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-08-147: APPROVING THE EXTENSION OF THE AGREEMENT WITH STAFFING CONNECTION/ACTION LABOR TO CONTINUE TO PROVIDE SCHOOL CROSSING GUARD SERVICES FOR NINETY (90) DAYS OR UNTIL THE CITY AWARDS A NEW CONTRACT FOR SERVICES, WHICHEVER SHALL OCCUR FIRST

.FIRE

21. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-08-149: AWARDING THE BID TO _________________ IN THE AMOUNT OF $_________________ TO PERFORM THE INSTALLATION OF DIESEL EXHAUST REMOVAL SYSTEMS AT EACH OF THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL’S THREE PERMANENT FIRE STATIONS; PROVIDING FOR FEDERAL GRANT FUNDING FROM THE ASSISTANCE TO FIREFIGHTERS GRANT #EMW-2009-FO-04824 IN THE AMOUNT OF $66,000.00; PROVIDING FOR CITY MATCHING FUNDS IN THE AMOUNT OF $16,500.00.

22. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-08-155: APPROVING A MEMOrandum OF UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL AND THE LOCAL UNION 2942, COUNCIL 79 AMERICAN FEDERATION OF THE STATE, COUNTY, AND MUNICIPAL EMPLOYEES, AFL-CIO, TO MODIFY SECTION 6 OF ARTICLE 19 OF THE COLLECTIVE BARGAINING AGREEMENT REGARDING THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF THE SELF-IMPROVEMENT INCENTIVE PLAN CONTAINED THEREIN.

P&Z

23. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-08-156: ReTroactively extending the date of site plan approval from august 16, 2008 TO AUGUST 16, 2014 for the georgetown townhouse development, a 32± ACRE SITE in the residential transitional at 16 dwelling units per gross acre (RT-16) zoning district Legally described as georgetown.

24. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-08-160: AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO SUBMIT AN APPLICATION FOR, AND EXECUTION OF, A JOB ACCESS REVERSE COMMUTE (JARC) GRANT APPLICATION UNDER THE SOUTH FLORIDA REGIONAL TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY’S GENERAL AUTHORITY TO MAKE SUCH GRANTS (REQUESTED BY MAYOR RICHARD J. KAPLAN).

POLICE

25. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-08-157: APPROVING A MEMOrandum OF UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL AND THE FLORIDA STATE LODGE, FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE, LODGE #161 (the “union”), AMENDING ARTICLE 16 “holidays” OF THE COLLECTIVE BARGAINING AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY AND THE UNION; AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO SIGN THE MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING ON BEHALF OF THE CITY.

Lauderhill Arrests

2011-08-28T01:11:00.001-04:00

Lauderhill narcotics unit, along with the County task force, arrested two males at XXXX NW 16 Street for intending to distribute 13 pounds of cannabis. Names are being withheld for federal charges.

Following that arrest, a deal was made to purchase 1,600 pounds of cannabis in the northwest part of Lauderhill. Two were arrested on federal charges.

A Notice Sent to the Mayor About the South Florida Water Management District

2011-08-25T01:05:00.000-04:00

"As you are aware, the South Florida Water Management District (District) is reducing its ad valorem property tax collections by 32%, which will result in a $128 million reduction to our Fiscal Year 2012 budget. In developing an austere budget aligned with these tax-reduction objectives, the District is taking steps across the agency to streamline operations and refocus on core functions of flood control, water supply and ecosystem restoration.

"To save more than $2 million in lease expenses and streamline staffing, the District is closing Service Center facilities in Monroe, Broward, Miami-Dade and Martin Counties. Service Centers will remain open in Ft. Myers, Orlando and Okeechobee. District staff will continue to provide community and local government support, attend meetings in your area and brief you and your communities on District activities. We are confident that District staff will continue to meet the needs of the local governments and stakeholders throughout our 16-county region."

Ed. Note: Thought this might be of interest in the cutbacks Florida is going through. Many do not agree with these cutbacks as being detrimental. Time may tell who was right, but these taxes will go down as well as your service from the District.

Broward Schools Starts Tomorrow

2011-08-21T16:24:00.000-04:00

Be careful on the roads because a new school year starts tomorrow, Monday, August 22. School buses and children will be everywhere, and we have to be reminded to be on the look out.

For information about what is new in school, you can go to Lauderhill Teen Central Web Site. There you will find information about the schools and lunch menus too under the 'Public School' tab.

9/11 Anniversary Recognized

2011-08-18T01:48:00.000-04:00

Patriot Day – 9/11 Ten Year Anniversary

Fire Station #57 - 1980 NW 56 Avenue

Sunday, September 11 (9 am – 11:30 am)

954-730-3000

Second Update on Mayor's Projects for 2011

2011-08-15T01:20:00.007-04:00

Earlier this year I put together a list of some of the major projects I intend to pursue during 2011, and I have been updating this occasionally. Being that we are into the third quarter of the year, I thought it might be interesting to give an update on how those projects are proceeding:

1) PACE - Complete setting up the program, and arrange financing.

We are working with a company that we believe we can set up the program through the use of private financing, without putting the city at risk. We also have a commercial property owner interested in pursuing a PACE Loan. At this point, all parties are working on the legal and mechanical side of how to proceed forward.

We are also expanding the concept by also examining Performance Contracting that will accomplish the same thing, but not through a government repayment through the tax rolls. The first application may be for the City of Lauderhill itself. Discussions and research are ongoing.

2) Continue developing Sister City Programs.

I visited Fuiggi, Italy in June. There is interest in business exchanges and twining, and at this time we are waiting on Fuiggi to advise if they want to move forward. The travel was not paid for by city funds.

3) Implement GREENROADS into the MPO Plan.

The MPOAC, which I chair, had their quarterly meeting last month and we received a GREENROADS presentation. The program seeks to establish green saving concepts to transportation construction and system. Staff is seeing how we can incorporate the concepts throughout Florida.

4) Creating a GREEN EXPO in the last quarter of 2011.

We are proceeding ahead with the Broward Green Expo, at the Inverrary Vacation Resort and Conference Center, November 18 & 19. SWS (Southern Waste Systems) is our Platinum Sponsor. We have committed sponsors for more half the money required for the budget. Only a few of the larger sponsorship packages are still available. More information will be available in another article, and at http://www.browardgreenexpo.com.

5) Set up the 2011-2012 Jazz Concert Series.

At this time we do not have a sponsor for the Jazz Picnic in the Park or the Jazz Under the Stars Concerts. I am talking with a few possible sponsors, and if successful, I can put the program together quickly. Information on the upcoming season, if a sponsor is secured, will be posted on this site and at www.lauderhilljazz.com.

6) Investigate whether a Federal Procurement Incubator can be created.

We are still trying to set up a meeting with someone who can put this program together.

7) KIDS DAY - July 2.

This program occurred on July 9,and was very successful.

8) Create a City Blanket.

We have the pictures and we are working out the layout before sending it to the company who makes the blankets. I expect the blankets to be done by September.

9) Arrange funding for the 2012 Unitown Program ($1000) and 2012 Lauderhill Educational College Scholarship ($2000).

We have $1000 for the Lauderhill College Essay Scholarship, but I do not have any information about Unitown yet. The Scholarship application will be sent out to BRACE Advisers and listed on the Lauderhill Teen Central Web Site, www.lhillteencentral.com, in November. Essay questions are being developed now.

10) College/Graduate Student Paid Internship Program.

I have developed a program to have college and graduate student work for me on a part-time basis for a semester. Applications were sent to Universities around the country. I hired an Intern for the summer, and about to hire another Intern for the Fall semester. The next semester will be in the Winter.

11) Developing a System for All Electric Community Shuttle Bus Systems.

SEFTC, of which I am Chair and at my urging, is trying to develop a pilot program with other transportation partners, to convert all Community Shuttle Buses to All Electric, Hydrogen Electric or CNG (natural gas), systems. The reason is that as the cost of gasoline rises, so does the cost of operating a gasoline vehicle. It is projected that moving away from gasoline buses it would reduce the cost of operation.

Related to this program is the installation of Car Charging Stations, which also may be used by the public. At this time, I am also working with a company and the City of Lauderhill, to install the first Car Charging Station in the city, probably at City Hall. There is expected to be no cost to the city for this station.

12) Other Green Programs.

I am planning on working with the Broward League of Cities to develop an inexpensive green building designation program and a green grant application.

13) Creating a New City Map

North Shore Medical Center - FMC Campus, has agreed to sponsor the creation of an updated version of our City Map. The last time it was produced was August 2007 and there are only a few left. We are working on it, and expect it to be out in October/November.

Several other items may be added to the list on the next update.

Back to School Sales Tax Holiday and Medical Examinations/Immunizations

2011-08-12T00:20:00.004-04:00

August is back-to-school month…do you have everything your kids need to head back to school?

Clothes ......................Shoes
Pencils & Paper ..........Backpack
School Physical

Florida's back-to-school sales tax holiday begins this Friday and lasts through Sunday. Items exempted from taxes include clothes, footwear and some accessories, as long as each item or pair of shoes costs $75 or less. The tax exemption covers all clothing (not just children's) and school supplies that sell for $15 or less also are exempt. Many stores will have their own deals on top of the tax incentive.

And, don’t forget the most important thing: ensuring your kids are in good health.

Making sure your child is healthy is an important step in preparing for the new school year. Make Seventh Avenue Family Health Center and Pompano Pediatric Primary Care Center your headquarters for back-to-school physicals and immunizations.

For your convenience, both Centers allow walk-ins and accept Medicaid and major insurance and credit cards. Call for an appointment or walk-ins are welcome:

7th Avenue Family Health Center
200 NW 7th Avenue
Fort Lauderdale
954-759-6600

Pompano Pediatric Primary Care Center
601 West Atlantic Boulevard
Pompano Beach
954-783-5413

Broward Health ensures that those who need healthcare receive it, regardless of ability to pay. As the healthcare safety net for the northern two-thirds of Broward County, Broward Health is anchored by four strategically located and fully accredited medical centers including a network of neighborhood-based healthcare centers, specialized diagnostic and treatment facilities, home-health providers, physician practices, and extensive community services, all specifically designed to meet the needs of Broward County’s very diverse population. For more information, visit www.BrowardHealth.org.

How to Report a Violation of Water Restrictions in Lauderhill

2011-08-09T01:10:00.000-04:00

If you observe someone who is violating water restrictions in Lauderhill, you can call 954-730-3070.

In many cases it is because the property owner does not know the specifics of the restrictions, and they may receive a warning. However, repeat violators will be cited.

For more information on water restrictions, please go to: http://www.lauderhillgreen.com/.

The Inverrary Association Proudly Announces Their 2011 Senior Essay Contest

2011-08-06T01:45:00.000-04:00

The largest Association in the City of Lauderhill is encouraging graduating high school seniors to learn about the unique, exciting history of Inverrary by sponsoring an essay contest.

Eligibility & Rules for the Inverrary Association
Essay Contest Include:
• Candidates must be a 2011 graduating senior from a Broward County High School.
• Candidates must be a legal resident of the State of Florida and reside in an Inverrary Community.
• Candidates must write an original essay with the theme:
“What Makes Inverrary a GREAT Place to Live?”
• Essays must include a cover page stating: writer's name, address, phone number, essay title, anddate.
• Each page must have the name of the candidate.
• Essay must contain a minimum of 250 words and a maximum of 500 words.
• Essays must be double spaced with left and right margins of 1.5 inches.
• Limit of one essay entry per person.
• Entries must be received no later than midnight August 1, 2011.
• Essays should be emailed (management@inverrary.us) or mailed (Inverrary Association 4373 Rock Island Road, Lauderhill, FL 33313) with a completed entry form.

Essays that meet all above criteria will be judged by a panel of highly respected Inverrary residents.
Winning selections will have received the most points in the following areas: 1 - Power of the message of the essay, 2 - Clarity of thought, 3 - Spelling, punctuation and grammar.

An awards luncheon will take place on Friday, August 19th, 2011 where the judges will announce the winning entries. The awards breakdown will include:
• (1) 1st Place Winner, $2500 check payable to a college/university of choice
• (1) 2nd Place Winner,$1500 check payable to a college/university of choice
• (1) 3rd Place Winner, $1000 check payable to a college/university of choice
• (2) Honorable Mentions, $500.00 check payable to a college/university of choice

Please contact Anita Villalon at (954) 739-1600 or management@inverrary.us with any questions.

Update on Tropical Storm Emily.

2011-08-04T14:15:00.000-04:00

Broward Emergency Management officials continue to monitor Tropical Storm Emily. TS Emily is southwest of Hispaniola with sustained winds near 50 MPH.

There is a 20% to 30% probability of tropical storm force winds affecting Broward County, with the center of Emily forecast to be at its closest point to South Florida on Saturday.

Now is the time to review your hurricane plan and assess the readiness of your hurricane supply kit. Broward officials advise residents to prepare for the possibility of tropical storm force winds from Emily, including securing loose outdoor objects that can become projectiles in a storm.

You can use your smart phone or other mobile device to report home damage immediately after a storm. To participate, bookmark Broward's app http://gis.broward.org/mda/ NOW, so that you have access to it after the storm, or call the Broward County Call Center at 3-1-1 to report your damage after the storm.

Time to Prepare for Hurricane Season is NOW!!

2011-08-02T07:51:00.004-04:00

Dear Residents of Lauderhill,

At this point we are following the movement of Tropical Storm Emily. Presently projectories show that it could come into our area sometime Saturday. However, this is always subject to change. For now it does not project to be a hurricane, but a strong storm. Therefore, it does look like that at a minimum we will receive some wind and rain, but that also could change.

The recommendation is that this is a good time to make sure that any loose exterior landscaping, or loose objects that could fly, be disposed of/secured. Also, if there are drains in the area, that they be inspected so that they are not clogged.

You may also wish to look over your emergency plans to make sure that you will be prepared in the event Emily does approach our area, i.e., food, water, propane, batteries, etc. It is easier to plan ahead, then to wait until everyone else is trying to do the same thing at the same time.

The best course of action is to be prepared. Also, if you are doing any work around your house, you need to be careful about it. Don't hurt yourself, and get help if you need it to avoid injuries.

As matters develop, I will send out further advisories as warranted on this web site. To have notices sent directly to your email through Constant Contact, please register your email address on the city web site, www.lauderhill-fl.gov . You will not only get quicker updates as posted, but also other important information on events affecting Lauderhill approximately once a month.

Very Truly Yours,

Richard J. Kaplan
Mayor, City of Lauderhill

Notes of the CRA and Regular Commission Meeting of July 11

2011-07-30T01:32:00.000-04:00

On July 11, the City Commission held a CRA Meeting and Regular Commission Meeting. The following are notes of interest (all votes were unanimous unless otherwise indicated):

CRA MEETING:

Commissioner Berger absent from this meeting.

1) RCP LOAN APPLICATION FOR NW 55 AVENUE PROPERTY

Application is proceeding to obtain funds with 0% interest. The intent is to purchase the land, if it appraises, then turn it over to the Lauderhill Housing Authority to construct single family homes.

2) INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS INCUBATOR RELOCATION

To save money, consensus was to move the program to the Inverrary Corporate Park office building. Tenants will pay $250/month, and the city will pay the remaining $50/month, plus cover the security deposit.

3) DISCUSSION OF PAC FUNDING

Because of the issue with the county not including interest, as provided in our agreement, the city is taking steps in its options. Also, staff will look at other alternatives so that the facility is within the proposed budget, plus make sure that it is consistent with today's economy and circumstances. The voter approved Lauderhill GO Bond requires a "Performing Arts Center" must be built with $5.8 Million. The County is matching that with another $5.8 Million, plus the funds for the new Library.

4) RESCHEDULE SEPTEMBER 12 MEETING

Approved 4-0 to move it to September 14, 2011 at 3:00 PM.

REGULAR COMMISSION MEETING:

ORDINANCES & PUBLIC HEARINGS ----- FIRST READING:

1. ORDINANCE NO. 11O-07-142: PERTAINING TO THE SMARTCODE; REPEALING IN ITS ENTIRETY SCHEDULE S, PROVISIONS FOR LAUDERHILL COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AREA; CREATING A NEW SCHEDULE S, SMARTCODE. Withdrew

ORDINANCES & PUBLIC HEARINGS --- SECOND READING:

2. ORDINANCE NO. 11O-06-139: APPROVING A SUPPLEMENTAL APPROPRIATION OF ADDITIONAL REVENUES AND EXPENDITURES TO BALANCE THE FISCAL YEAR 2011 BUDGET; PROVIDING FOR CUMULATIVE BUDGET TRANSFERS AND APPROPRIATIONS IN THE AMOUNT OF $18,846,580.48; PROVIDING VARIOUS BUDGET CODE NUMBERS.

RESOLUTIONS
ADMINISTRATION

3. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-06-86: APPROVING THE REVISED FIRST AMENDMENT TO THE OPERATING AND LEASE AGREEMENT BETWEEN BROWARD COUNTY AND THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL FOR THE LEASE OF REAL PROPERTY FOR DESIGN, DEVELOPMENT, CONSTRUCTION, OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE OF A CULTURAL CENTER AND LIBRARY IMMEDIATELY ADJACENT TO CENTRAL BROWARD REGIONAL PARK.

4. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-06-87: AWARDING THE BID TO PROFESSIONAL FACILITIES MANAGEMENT, INC. FOR CONSULTING SERVICES IN CONNECTION WITH THE PERFORMING ARTS CENTER; AUTHORIZING PAYMENT FROM THE APPROPRIATE BUDGET CODE NUMBER. Withdrew from Agenda.

FINANCE

5. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-07-122: APPROVING THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL'S COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT (CDBG) FIVE-YEAR CONSOLIDATED PLAN FOR FISCAL YEAR 2012-2016 AND THE ONE YEAR ACTION PLAN FOR FISCAL YEAR 2012.

FIRE

6. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-07-123: DECLARING THE 1982 EMERGENCY ONE 110’ LADDER FIRE TRUCK TO BE SURPLUS AND OBSOLETE AND AUTHORIZING ITS DISPOSAL OR SALE IN ACCORDANCE WITH CITY OF LAUDERHILL CODE OF ORDINANCES, SECTION 2-143(b); PROVIDING THAT THE TRUCK WILL BE TRADED IN FOR A $5,000.00 CREDIT TOWARDS THE PURCHASE OF A REPLACEMENT FIRE ENGINE.

QUASI-JUDICIAL MATTERS:
QUASI-JUDICIAL MATTERS, FIRST READING:

7. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-07-125: GRANTING A SPECIAL EXCEPTION USE DEVELOPMENT ORDER TO CN INVESTMENT HOLDINGS, LLC, SUBJECT TO CONDITIONS, TO ALLOW THE CONVEYANCE OF AN EXISTING 24-HOUR CONVENIENCE STORE WITH BEER AND WINE SALES AND OUTDOOR GAS CYLINDER EXCHANGE , AT THE KWIK STOP AT 1401 N.W. 31ST AVENUE, LAUDERHILL, FLORIDA.

8. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-07-126: GRANTING A SPECIAL EXCEPTION USE DEVELOPMENT ORDER TO PINEAPPLES CAFÉ, INC., SUBJECT TO CONDITIONS, TO ALLOW WITHIN THE GENERAL COMMERCIAL ZONING DISTRICT A RESTAURANT BAR AND BANQUET HALL WITH LIVE ENTERTAINMENT, AT THE BONVALE PLAZA LOCATED AT 7529-7531 WEST OAKLAND PARK BOULEVARD, LAUDERHILL, FLORIDA.

Comcast Launches Internet Essentials for Families at Reduced Costs

2011-07-27T01:34:00.004-04:00

Today, communities need to have digitally literate populations to succeed. The role the Internet plays in the classroom, workplace, and at home cannot be understated. For students the Internet is the dictionary, encyclopedia, library, and tutor all rolled into one. For their teachers it provides new tools and resources without adding new budget items. For families the Internet allows them to track and participate in their child’s education.

In conjunction with the 2011 “Back to School” season, Comcast will launch Internet Essentials, a groundbreaking program to close the digital divide by bringing the Internet home to families with a child receiving a free school lunch under the National School Lunch Program.

Traditional approaches to close the digital divide have focused on the creation of public computer labs at schools, libraries, and community centers. These often come with additional costs for service, equipment, and staffing, and still leave children and their families without access during off hours.

"We will require a national commitment to make this work because the individual initiatives out there are not moving the needle fast enough," FCC Chairman Julius Genachowski said in an interview with Reuters.

Genachowski said the FCC will work with the industry and local governments to address affordability, relevance, digital literacy and trust, all issues that have held back broadband adoption. Comcast Internet Essentials is a new approach that focuses on working with legislators, policy makers, and educators to provide access at home.

Comcast Internet Essentials will provide eligible families with affordable home Internet service ($9.95 per month), a low-cost computer ($149.99 plus taxes), and digital literacy training.

David Cohen, Comcast Executive Vice President, stated, “We are very excited about this program because it has the potential to have a real impact on not only the lives of the family and children who access broadband, but also on their communities as those children grow up to be doctors, lawyers, and engineers.”

Policy makers, elected officials and educators can all help to make this program a success by raising awareness about broadband adoption and its benefits for families, as well as sharing information about the Comcast Internet Essentials program with colleagues and qualifying families.

To learn how you can spread the word visit www.internetessentials.com.

Golf Tournament Benefiting Lauderhill Youth Sports

2011-07-24T01:10:00.003-04:00

The Lauderhill Golf Tournament to benefit Lauderhill Youth Sports Programs will take place on Friday, August 5, 2011 at the Inverrary Country Club.

This is a 4 person Best Ball Scramble - with a Shotgun start - beginning at 8 am. $100 per person.

Skill challenges, lunch, award ceremony, and silent auction all part of the day's events. Don’t miss out.

Call Scott Newton for more information at 954-730-3084 for more information.

KaBoom Playground Build Volunteers Needed

2011-07-21T01:26:00.002-04:00

Armed Robber - Still At Large. Public Asked to Help

2011-07-19T10:30:00.000-04:00

Aggravated Battery with a Firearm… Armed Robbery Case#11-05-4407.

Lauderhill detectives are investigating an aggravated battery with a firearm/armed robbery that occurred on May 19, 2011 around 10:45pm.

The victim, a 53 year old male was walking into his apartment complex (Cypress Grove, 1800 Block of N.W. 19th street) when he was approached by a black male, muscular built, 5’7”, over 200 lbs, wearing a stocking cap (Composite above).

The suspect used handgun to commit the robbery on the victim. During the robbery, the suspect struck the victim in the head with the handgun. He then placed the handgun to the left side of the victim’s neck and shot him. The suspect fled the area on foot.

The victim suffered from injuries to his neck and was transported to Broward General Hospital where he was treated and released.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Broward Crime Stoppers at (954) 493-TIPS or Detective Andrew Kiefer at (954) 497-4700.

Updated Lauderhill Bulk Trash Pickup for 2011

2011-07-18T01:07:00.000-04:00

I-595 Temporary Ramp Closures Information

2011-07-15T01:20:00.004-04:00

Lauderhill Chamber of Commerce Casino Night

2011-07-12T01:51:00.001-04:00

Mortgage Assistance

2011-07-09T01:15:00.004-04:00

Here's a list of mortgage companies that will all be there to help Florida families:

American Home Mortgage Servicing, Inc.
Aurora
Bank of America
Chase
Citi
GMAC/Homecomings
HSBC
Lender Business Processing Services (LBPS)
Litton
NationStar
Ocwen
OneWest Bank
PNC/National City
Regions
Select Portfolio Servicing (SPS)
SunTrust
Wells Fargo/Wachovia

Several local, HUD-approved non-profit counseling organizations will be on-site as well to advise homeowners, including:

NHS of South Florida
Housing Development Corporation of South Florida
Consolidated Credit
Dream Home
Consumer Credit Management
Oasis of Hope
REACH
Cornerstone Financial Education
Credit Card Management Services
Nanay
CredAbility

Plus representatives from the following organizations:

Fannie Mae
Freddie Mac
Florida Hardest Hit Funds
HUD
Making Home Affordable

Grant Funds for Rent/Mortgage/Utility/Deposits for Lauderhill Residents

2011-07-06T00:22:00.000-04:00

ATTENTION LAUDERHILL RESIDENTS –

If you are in need of Grant Funds for RENT, MORTGAGE, UTILITY, OR SECURITY DEPOSITS Assistance……… help is available.

Please go to The Central Region Family Success Center for more information.

(Edgar P. Mills Center)

900 NW 31st Avenue; Suite 3000

Fort Lauderdale, FL 33311

954-357-5001

Mon-Fri 8:00am to 6:00pm

Kids Day - July 9

2011-07-03T00:08:00.000-04:00

Mayor Travels to Fiuggi Italy for Sister Cities

2011-06-30T01:11:00.001-04:00

At the request of the Lauderhill Sister City organization, Mayor Kaplan is traveling to Fiuggi, Italy, to determine whether there is an interest to develop a new sister city. The City Commission passed a Resolution several months ago asking the Mayor to advise them on this matter.

The travel is not being paid with taxpayers funds.

The Lauderhill Sister City organization is also seeking out other possible Sister Cities.

Broward County Transit is Moving to the Future

2011-06-27T01:38:00.000-04:00

Broward County Transit (BCT) is "moving to the future" with one of the very best and most productive public bus systems in the nation, director Tim Garling reported May 10.

"When you combine our fixed bus routes, community buses and Paratransit service, BCT provides close to 40 million rides each year." "BCT plays a large role in the future economic development, livability and sustainability of our County and region."

BCT strategies for meeting the future transit needs of the community include advancing regional travel by appealing to new and existing commuters, promoting energy efficiency, connecting with passengers through smart phones and other technology, and providing for rider safety, comfort and convenience. "And, we're working hard to attract the next generation of transit riders," said Garling.

Examples cited include:

• Two new I-595 Express routes from southwest Broward to downtown Fort Lauderdale and Miami are scheduled to launch in early 2012. New 95 Express Route service from southwest Broward County to downtown Miami and the Miami Civic Center area has been highly successful. Since the service was launched in January, ridership has increased 126 percent to more than 450 rides per day. These popular routes have 60-foot-long articulated buses, Wi-Fi capabilities and hybrid diesel engines that reduce fuel consumption and emissions.

• BCT was the first transit system in South Florida to introduce Google™ Transit to assist riders with online trip planning.

• Social media has been incorporated to appeal to a wider audience. A Facebook page provides frequent system updates and information of interest to customers. A BCT YouTube site includes a informative new "Go Green" video that shares the environmental benefits of using public transportation.

• "Real Time" bus information will be available via handheld devices, laptops and personal computers no later than 2013.

• Easier ways to pay a bus fare are in the works. Garling said plans include an interoperable fare payment system where customers can use a bank card or even a mobile phone to purchase trips on the BCT system.

• New customer comforts and conveniences are on the horizon. An aggressive, $23 million construction program calls for an additional 680 new bus shelters by 2014, bringing the system total to 1,177 countywide. The new Northeast Transit Center will open this fall at the corner of Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd. and Dixie Highway in Pompano Beach. Future construction projects include a major renovation at the Ravenswood Bus Facility in Dania Beach, a Park and Ride Lot at the Bank Atlantic Center in Sunrise, and an updated transfer facility at the Lauderhill Mall in Lauderhill.

"Technology is key to our future," Garling concluded, "but the strength of Broward County Transit has been and always will be its employees. We are all here to get you there."

For more information on Broward County Transit, visit www.broward.org/bct.

Lauderhill Community Shuttle Bus Program Cuts Operating Hours

2011-06-24T00:15:00.002-04:00

By a 4 to 1 vote, Mayor Kaplan voting against, the City Commission has cut the hours of the Lauderhill Community Shuttle Bus program from 60 to 36 hours.

The Mayor did not object to the number of hours being cut, because funding is not available to continue it, but the issue was the particular routes and hours of operation. He felt that due consideration was not given to those using the system to go to and from their work, that Route 1 & 5 are duplicates so that those hours could be cut back and provide more hours to other routes, and that the decision of where to cut was based on faulty data.

The Mayor provided another schedule that he felt would not create as much hardship to residents that the Commission rejected.

Already the city has received numerous calls objecting to the change, and a petition signed by 500 people. The next time residents can address the Commission on this is at the 7 PM Public Hearing at City Hall on June 27.

The hours are operation are:

Route 1: 8:45 am to 4:00 pm
Route 2: 8:45 am to 3:45 pm
Route 3: 10:35 am to 6:00 pm
Route 4: 8:45 am to 3:45 pm
Route 5: 10:50 am to 6:05 pm

As it can be seen, virtually no hours will be provided for commuters to work. The hours recommended by the Mayor provided for hours starting earlier and later on Routes 1, 2, 3, and 4, some down time during the day when ridership should be lower, and the elimination of Route 5 since it duplicates Route 1 (but goes in reverse).

Notes of the Regular Commission Meeting of June 13

2011-06-21T01:23:00.013-04:00

On June 13, the City Commission held its regular Commission Meeting, and the following are some items of interest (all votes were unanimous unless otherwise indicated):

VI. PROCLAMATIONS:

A. HONORING LEONARD ALLWORTH DUNCANSON ON HIS RETIREMENT.

B. DECLARING JUNE 13, 2011 AS NATIONAL ARBOR DAY.

C. DECLARING JUNE 13, 2011 AS DILLARD CENTER FOR THE ARTS’ JAZZ ENSEMBLE DAY.

VII. PRESENTATIONS

A. PRESENTATION TO “BOYS TO MEN CLUB” OF LAUDERHILL MIDDLE SCHOOL.

B. CERTIFICATE OF RECOGNITION TO LAUDERHILL RESIDENT, LORA THOMSON

ORDINANCES & PUBLIC HEARINGS ----- FIRST READING:

1. ORDINANCE NO. 11O-06-125: TO AMEND THE TAX IMPOSED AND LEVIED ON TELECOMMUNICATIONS SERVICES TO PROVIDE RATES PURSUANT TO FLORIDA STATUTES, SECTION 202.19.

2. ORDINANCE NO. 11O-06-128: AMENDING THE CITY CODE OF ORDINANCES, WINDERMERE/TREE GARDENS SAFE NEIGHBORHOOD IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT, SECTION 2-236, ESTABLISHING ADVISORY COUNCIL, TO AMEND THE COMPOSITION OF THE ADVISORY COUNCIL TO ALLOW FOR EITHER FIVE (5) OR SEVEN (7) REGULAR MEMBERS.

3. ORDINANCE NO. 11O-06-132: REPEALING SIENNA GREENS SAFE NEIGHBORHOOD IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT, AS THE DISTRICT DID NOT PASS BY A MAJORITY VOTE TO MOVE FORWARD; RESERVING SECTIONS FOR FUTURE USE.

4. ORDINANCE NO. 11O-06-134: AMENDING THE ZONING DISTRICT MAP IDENTIFIED IN LAND DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS, CHANGING FROM OPEN SPACE AND RECREATIONAL (S-1) TO COMMERCIAL RECREATION (CR) LEGALLY DESCRIBED AS TRACT “A”, INVERRARY COUNTRY CLUB, TOGETHER WITH THOSE PARCELS OF LAND DESCRIBED HEREIN AND MORE COMMONLY KNOWN AS THE EAST GOLD COURSE AND WEST GOLF COURSE.

5. ORDINANCE NO. 11O-06-135: AMENDING THE LAND DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS AND PERTAINING TO ADULT ENTERTAINMENT USES; BY REPEALING ADULT ENTERTAINMENT USES AS A SPECIAL EXCEPTION USE WITHIN THE COMMUNITY COMMERCIAL (CC) AND GENERAL COMMERCIAL (CG) ZONING DISTRICTS.

ORDINANCES & PUBLIC HEARINGS --- SECOND READING:

6. ORDINANCE NO. 11O-05-124: AMENDING THE CODE OF ORDINANCES LOCAL BUSINESS TAXES TO RATES BY FIVE PERCENT (5%) AS IS REASONABLE AND NECESSARY AND AS IS AUTHORIZED BY FLORIDA STATUTES, SECTION 205.0535(4).

RESOLUTIONS
ADMINISTRATION

7. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-06-85: APPROVING THE LETTER AGREEMENT BETWEEN CROWN CASTLE SOUTH, L.L.C., ON BEHALF OF NEW CINGULAR WIRELESS PCS, LLC., AND THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL TO EXTEND THE TERM OF THE CURRENT GROUND LEASE AGREEMENT FOR ITS TELECOMMUNICATIONS SITE LOCATED AT 2000 CITY HALL DRIVE (BU# 812072) FOR FOUR (4) ADDITIONAL FIVE (5) YEAR RENEWALS.

8. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-06-86: APPROVING THE REVISED FIRST AMENDMENT TO THE OPERATING AND LEASE AGREEMENT BETWEEN BROWARD COUNTY AND THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL FOR THE LEASE OF REAL PROPERTY FOR DESIGN, DEVELOPMENT, CONSTRUCTION, OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE OF A CULTURAL CENTER AND LIBRARY IMMEDIATELY ADJACENT TO CENTRAL BROWARD REGIONAL PARK. Removed from Agenda.

9. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-06-87: AWARDING THE BID TO PROFESSIONAL FACILITIES MANAGEMENT, INC. FOR CONSULTING SERVICES IN CONNECTION WITH THE PERFORMING ARTS CENTER; AUTHORIZING PAYMENT FROM THE APPROPRIATE BUDGET CODE NUMBER. Removed from the Agenda.

COMMISSION

10. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-06-88: NAMING THE CITY GARAGE AFTER MIKE LAROCHE IN HIS MEMORY AFTER HIS MANY YEARS OF HARD WORK AND DEDICATION TO THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL (REQUESTED BY COMMISSIONER M. MARGARET BATES).

DEES

11. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-06-91: APPROVING THE INTERLOCAL AGREEMENT BETWEEN BROWARD COUNTY AND THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL TO PROVIDE COST SHARE SUPPORT OF A WATER CONSERVATION INCENTIVES PROGRAM TO BE COORDINATED BY BROWARD COUNTY WITHIN THE CITY’S WATER UTILITY SERVICE AREAS AND TO AUTHORIZE THE COUNTY TO CONDUCT SPECIFIC MEDIA PROMOTION, OUTREACH, ADMINISTRATIVE AND OTHER ACTIVITIES ASSOCIATED WITH FOSTERING A COUNTYWIDE WATER CONSERVATION ETHIC IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE CITY; PROVIDING FOR A FIVE (5) YEAR TERM; PROVIDING FOR A COST ALLOCATION TO THE CITY FOR THE FIRST YEAR IN THE AMOUNT OF $26,159.00; PROVIDING FOR PAYMENT FROM BUDGET CODE NUMBER 401-917-6307.

12. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-06-96: ACCEPTING THE PROPOSAL OF R.J. BEHAR & COMPANY, INC. IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $63,601.00 FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE “PROMENADE ALONG STATE ROAD 7/U.S. 441 @ 11TH PLACE” TO INCLUDE MINOR ROAD, SIDEWALK, LIGHTING AND LANDSCAPING DESIGNS.

FINANCE

13. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-06-97: RANKING THE PROPOSALS FOR AUDIT SERVICES FOR FISCAL YEARS 2011, 2012, AND 2013. Removed from the Agenda.

14. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-06-98: APPROVING AN AMENDMENT TO THE NEIGHBORHOOD STABILIZATION PROGRAM (NSP3) SUBSTANTIAL AMENDMENT TO THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL’S 2010 ACTION PLAN.

15. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-06-99: AMENDING THE FUND BALANCE POLICY FOR THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL. Tabled to workshop of June 20.

16. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-06-100: APPROVING THE 2011 AMENDMENT TO THE INTERLOCAL AGREEMENT BETWEEN BROWARD COUNTY AND THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL FOR THE DIVISION AND DISTRIBUTION OF THE PROCEEDS FROM THE BROWARD COUNTY FIFTH CENT ADDITIONAL LOCAL OPTION GAS TAX ON MOTOR FUEL FOR TRANSIT.

17. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-06-101: APPROVING THE 2011 AMENDMENT TO THE INTERLOCAL AGREEMENT BETWEEN BROWARD COUNTY AND THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL PROVIDING FOR THE DIVISION AND DISTRIBUTION OF THE PROCEEDS OF THE LOCAL OPTION GAS TAX IMPOSED BY THE BROWARD COUNTY LOCAL OPTION GAS TAX ORDINANCE.

18. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-06-102: APPROVING THE 2011 AMENDMENT TO THE INTERLOCAL AGREEMENT BETWEEN BROWARD COUNTY AND THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL FOR THE DIVISION AND DISTRIBUTION OF THE PROCEEDS FROM THE BROWARD COUNTY ADDITIONAL LOCAL OPTION GAS TAX ON MOTOR FUEL ORDINANCE.

PALS

19. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-06-103: APPROVING THE RECIPROCAL USE AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY LAUDERHILL AND THE SCHOOL BOARD OF BROWARD COUNTY, FLORIDA PROVIDING FOR THE SHARING OF RESOURCES FOR OUTDOOR PLAYGROUND RECREATION FACILITIES AND FOR EDUCATIONAL AND TRAINING PROGRAMS.

20. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-06-104: APPROVING THE FIRST AMENDMENT TO THE INTERLOCAL AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL AND BROWARD COUNTY FOR THE PROVISION OF COMMUNITY BUS SERVICES WHICH IS EFFECTIVE THROUGH SEPTEMBER 30, 2012, WITH TWO ADDITIONAL ONE-YEAR OPTIONS TO EXTEND AVAILABLE; PROVIDING FOR A REDUCTION IN BUS ROUTE REVENUE HOURS ON ALL FIVE ROUTES FROM 60 SERVICE HOURS PER WEEK TO 36 SERVICE HOURS PER WEEK; REFLECTING THE CORRESPONDING DECREASE IN ANNUAL OPERATING FUNDING DUE TO THE REDUCTION IN SERVICE HOURS. Passes 4-1, Mayor Kaplan voting against. Mayor Kaplan expressed that there will be those that could lose their jobs by restricting the hours. He proposed an alternative which was not considered by staff or the Commission.

21. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-06-105: EXERCISING ITS LAST OPTION TO EXTEND THE PROFESSIONAL SERVICE AGREEMENT BETWEEN LIMOUSINES OF SOUTH FLORIDA, INC. AND THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL FOR SHUTTLE BUS SERVICE; PROVIDING THAT THIS AGREEMENT SHALL TAKE EFFECT RETROACTIVELY COMMENCING AUGUST 11, 2010 AND ENDING ON AUGUST 10, 2011 WITH NO REMAINING OPTIONS TO RENEW; PROVIDING SECOND ADDENDUM TO INCLUDE REDUCTION IN HOURS FOR SERVICE ROUTES FROM 60 HOURS PER WEEK TO 36 HOURS PER WEEK.

HR

22. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-06-106: APPROVING THE RENEWAL OF THE GROUP HEALTH INSURANCE PLAN WITH HUMANA INSURANCE COMPANY TO INCLUDE A POS AND A HMO FOR A ONE YEAR TERM BEGINNING OCTOBER 1, 2011 AND ENDING SEPTEMBER 30, 2012 AT AN INCREASE OF 5.82%.

POLICE

23. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-06-107: APPROVING THE EXPENDITURE OF ABANDONED PROPERTY FUNDS IN THE AMOUNT OF $1,614.93 FOR THE PURCHASE OF METAL TARGET SYSTEMS FOR FIREARMS QUALIFICATIONS FROM THE LOW QUOTE, LAW ENFORCEMENT TARGETS; PROVIDING FOR PAYMENT FROM BUDGET CODE NUMBER 001-247-0300.

New Garbage Company for Lauderhill Starts July 1

2011-06-18T02:23:00.009-04:00

The City of Lauderhill has approved a new contract to change our garbage removal company from Waste Management to Republic Service, a Lauderhill business with offices on 31st Ave.

Waste Management has been serving the city for over 30 years, however Republic Service (a/k/a All Service Refuse) was the service provider for the newly annexed SE area of the city. By state law, and expiration of existing contracts, the city was able to merge the service providers back to one company at this time.

Republic Service is separately entering into a partnership with SWS to provide some of the garbage service to Lauderhill, which will overall reduce the costs to residents and businesses.

Effective July 1, the new service will begin, and new trash containers will be distributed to residents. The service will stay the same, except that all Lauderhill residents will have a reduction in their garbage costs.

The SE area will see the largest deduction of about 40% (because the county contract that just expired was higher than the rest of Lauderhill). All other residents will see a drop of over 20%. New citywide regular (not backdoor) residential house collection rates will be reduced to $15.00 for the 96 gallon container.

NOTE: The recycling contract is a separate service which will continue as it is now, but is up for new bids. So the service provider could change in the future. Waste Management continues to provide this service.

Lauderhill Community to Design Rare Multigenerational Playground

2011-06-15T00:38:00.005-04:00

City of Lauderhill, FLIPANY, Humana Inc. and KaBOOM! host design day Thurs., June 16 for first-of-its-kind play and interactive space for all generations

WHAT: The City of Lauderhill Parks and Leisure Services Department, Florida Introduces Physical Activity and Nutrition to Youth (FLIPANY), Humana, Inc., and organizers from KaBOOM! will host a playground Design Day for children and seniors at the Environ Cultural Center in Lauderhill on Thurs., June 16. More than 50 community residents and children will play a direct role in planning and designing a multigenerational playground that will be built at Ruth Rothkopf Park on Wed., Aug. 3 at Ruth Rothkopf Park.

Design day will begin with area children drawing their DREAM playground. Kids from the community will put crayon to paper and draw what will ultimately become a reality. In fact, the elements of their drawings will be incorporated into the final design. Design Day will also be the first meeting of the playground planning committee that will work over the next seven weeks to plan and prepare for construction of the new playground.

Volunteers from Humana and the community will build the new, 2,500 sq. ft. community playground. This unique space will also include five standalone exercise stations for adults and senior citizens to enjoy. In addition, volunteers will build new picnic tables, benches, shade areas and an enhanced walking path.

WHY: The new Lauderhill community playground will provide a safe place to play for more than 1,200 children along with their parents and grandparents. Currently, children who play at Ruth Rothkopf Park only have a small amount of old, out-dated equipment to enjoy. The new multigenerational playground will accommodate people of all ages and abilities and provide a diverse gathering area for Lauderhill residents.

This innovative space will be the first playground funded by Humana through a partnership with KaBOOM! For 15 years, KaBOOM!, a national nonprofit whose vision is to create a great place to play within walking distance of every child in America, has been building playgrounds to fight Play Deficit (the lack of play in the lives of America’s children). This lack of play is having profound consequences on kids’ health and well-being. Today’s kids spend less time playing outside than any previous generation in part because only 1-in-5 children live within walking distance of a park or playground.

Humana, Florida’s largest Medicare health benefits company, is commemorating its 50th anniversary in August by donating funds, resources and time to this project in an effort to show gratitude to the South Florida community for its support over the years and to promote lifelong well-being for its citizens.

WHEN: Thursday, June 16
Noon to 1 p.m. Children designing their dream playground
1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Volunteers participating in planning meeting

WHERE: Environ Cultural Center, 3800 Environ Blvd, Lauderhill, FL 33319

VISUALS: Children drawing their dream playgrounds. Also, representatives from Humana, KaBOOM! and the City of Lauderhill will do a site walk to explore the current space at Ruth Rothkopf Park.

Unveiling of the City Hall SILVER LEED Sign & Arbor Day Celebration

2011-06-12T01:08:00.000-04:00

Celebrate the unveiling at the Lauderhill City Hall on June 21, 2011 at 4:30 PM.

ANOTHER KaBOOM PLAYGROUND ON ITS WAY

2011-06-09T01:23:00.007-04:00

The City of Lauderhill has be awarded to again be the recipient of a fresh new KaBOOM! Playground.

Our corporate sponsor is HUMANA!!!!!!!

This playground is being planned to be an interactive multi-generational playground to fit within the community of Inverrary.

Important dates:

** Design Day - Thursday June 16th
** Build Day - Wednesday August 3rd at Ruth Rothkoph Park, off Inverrary Blvd. and 44th Street.

Congrats to the Inverrary community and families!! Ruth Rothkopf Park here we come!

Times and additional places to be announced………

Police Blotter - Arrests

2011-06-06T01:58:00.001-04:00

1) Detective XXXXXX arrested XXXXXXX for forcibly removing a gold necklace from an elderly woman's neck. It occurred near the bus stop in the 3100 block of NW 19th Street (Lauderhill Point) The arrestee was picked up in the Swap Shop.

2) A few days ago, a juvenile was arrested for Burglary at XXXX NW 3 Street. The juvenile removed a lap top, Wii game and a play station system. A second juvenile is being sought.

3) Detective XXXXXX arrested a juvenile for Attempted Burglary at XXXX NW 82 Ave. A full confession was obtained along with information about a gang at Piper High.

4) Two more people were arrested for Burglary. XXXXX from Lauderhill and XXXXX from Plantation entered XXXX NW 46 Ave.#X and removed a flat screen tv, laptop and cellphone. All property has been recovered.

5) Officers on the east side of our city responded to a burglary in process where three male adults were arrested. The break-in occurred at XXXX NW 18 Place (West Kenlark). All property has been recovered. One adult lives a block away, a second in Driftwood on 19th Street and 31 Ave and a third in Ft.Lauderdale.

6) XXXX XXXXX of XXXX NW 14 St. Lauderhill, was arrested for Burglary on Wednesday, for entering the residence at XXXX NW 43 Terrace. The arrestee's partner, XXXXX XXXXXX from Plantation was also arrested for Burglary as he waited outside.

7) A man was arrested Monday night after robbing a CVS pharmacy and then leaving a trail of cash and other items that helped police find him inside a nearby laundry mat, authorities said. A man robbed the CVS pharmacy along the 5500 block of Oakland Park Boulevard at gunpoint. He took an undetermined amount of money from the register and other items from the store. While running away, the man dropped cash and some other items, leaving a trail that led police to a laundry mat at the 7 Star plaza where the suspect was apprehended.

8) XXXX XXXX was arrested at a traffic stop in the 5500 block of Oakland Park Blvd. He had an active warrant for his arrest for Driving while License Suspended. He was also charged with cannabis possession and violating his felony probation.

9) XXX XXXXX was arrested for aggravated domestic battery at XXXX NW 46 Ave. #XXX.

10) XXXXX XXXXXXX was arrested in a burglary in process as officers surrounded the building, he was on the roof removing an A/C unit. He was arrested at XXXX NW 19th Street.

11) XXXX XXXXXX was arrested in Cypress Grove during a disturbance.

12) XXXXXX XXXXXX was arrested in John Mullin Park when an officer was talking to him when a colt 38 cal fell out of his pant leg. He also had an active traffic warrant an no CCF license.

13) Crime Suppression Unit watched as two juveniles were looking into windows at XXXX La Mirage. When traffic went by, they ducked into bushes. Both were taken into custody for Loitering and Attempted Burglary.

14) Two juveniles were loitering in front of the convenience store at XXXX Pine Island Road. One provided a false name the other had cannabis. Both were arrested.

15) XXXX XXXXXX was arrested at Flamingo Liquors after a call about the person selling DVD's and threatening with a gun. As officers attempted to frisk the person, he attempted to flee but was restrained. He had 10.5 grams of cannabis on his person and was arrested for drugs and battery on a law enforcement officer.

16) Armed Robbery occurred in Cypress Grove where three males forcibly took fifty dollars and a bottle of liquor.

17) A second robbery occurred in Cypress Grove in an elevator where one male pulled out a revolver and demanded money. Two shots fired but no one struck.

18)Armed robbery in the 2000 block of NW 49 Ave where a juvenile grabbed an IPOD. Officers located and arrested the juvenile at XXXX NW 20 Street. Property was returned.

19) Officer XXXXX arrested two juveniles who were riding ATVs and fleeing police in the 4000 block of NW 16 Street. The city seized the ATV.

20) Two court ordered drug search warrants were conducted by the swat team:

XXXX NW 16th Street - Four arrests
Sale and Delivery of Cocaine
Possession of a Stolen Firearm by a convicted felon
Possession of Cannabis
Possession of Cocaine
One firearm seized, 4 grams of cocaine and 10 grams of cannabis

XXXX NW 46th Ave #X (King's Row) - Two arrests
Sale and Delivery of Cannabis and Cocaine
Outstanding warrants on both
One shotgun and three handguns seized
Two bulletproof vests
Apt had surveillance cameras
183 grams of Cannabis seized
30 ecstasy pills seized
$1,100 cash seized

Family Golf Day

2011-06-03T01:30:00.002-04:00

Lauderhill Arts Center (LAC) Resident Artist is Chosen for an International Exhibition in Egypt

2011-05-31T01:15:00.003-04:00

Lauderhill, FL USA…. Bibliotheca Alexandrina International Biennale for Miniature Graphics has selected two works from LAC resident artist, Liliana Gerardi for its permanent collection. The Bibliotheca Alexandrina (Alexandria Library) is located in ancient city of Alexandria, Egypt and its annual international exhibit for miniature art features printmaking from all over the world, in its most ancient to most avant-garde forms.

Ms. Gerardi, one of the original artists-in-residence at the LAC, was born in Argentina. Ms. Gerardi earned a Bachelor Degree in Fine Arts from the Universidad Nacional De Cuyo with a Major in Printmaking. Since moving the United States in 2000, Ms. Gerardi has demonstrated a strong commitment to spread engraving techniques in the South Florida area. She conducts classes at the LAC in printmaking and volunteers to teach printmaking at Parkway Middle School in Lauderhill.

Ms. Gerardi describes her own art as“…ranging from symbolic to abstract. I am inspired by primitive art, aboriginal art, as well as art with spiritual significance.” Since 1990, she has participated in exhibitions in Argentina, Mexico, Panama, Brazil, Spain, Belgium, France, The United Kingdom and Japan.

Ms. Gerardi’s printmaking and other works of art are on exhibit at the Lauderhill Arts Center, located at 5450 NW 19th Street in Lauderhill. The LAC and the Lauderhill Art, Culture, and Tourism Board will host the Opening Reception of the Juried Group Exhibition of Small Works on Saturday, June 4th, 2011, from 6 pm until 10 pm at the LAC. Everyone is welcome to attend and enjoy! Call 954-714-1534 for more information.

Lauderhill’s Summer Camp Program Is Now Accepting Registrations

2011-05-28T01:28:00.001-04:00

The City of Lauderhill Parks & Leisure Services Department is now accepting SUMMER CAMP 2011 Registrations.

CAMP DATES: June 13th through Aug 19th
CAMP TIMES: 7:30 am – 6:00 pm (Monday – Friday)
AGES: Kindergarten – entering 6th grade (5-12 years old)
No Pre-K!
CAMP LOCATION: Veterans Park - 7600 NW 50th Street or
Sadkin Community Center - 1176 NW 42nd Way
COST: $140 / every two weeks for residents
$180 / every two weeks for non-residents

*FAMILY CENTRAL ACCEPTED*

(ADVANCE PAYMENT TOTAL: $700 for residents, $900 for non-residents)

FULL REGISTRATION INCLUDES: lunch, snacks, one camp t-shirt, arts and crafts, and select field trips.

REGISTER NOW at the following locations: Veterans Park, 7600 NW 50th St, Lauderhill 33351, 954-572-1459; or the Sadkin Center, 1176 NW 42nd Way, Lauderhill 33313, 321-2450.

Summer camp services are provided by ASP, INC. Call 954-596-9000 or contact Daphne Brown at 954-321-2454 for more information.

Community Development Block Grants Announced

2011-05-25T01:21:00.001-04:00

The Department of HUD has announced that the City of Lauderhill is estimated to receive $843,850 in CDBG Funds for the upcoming year. This is a reduction from $1,011,553 from the present year.

Notes of the Commission Meeting of May 9

2011-05-22T01:11:00.000-04:00

On May 9, the City Commission held a Regular Commission Meeting, and the following are notes of interest (all items passed unanimously unless otherwise indicated):

VII. PRESENTATIONS

A. CERTIFICATE OF APPRECIATION TO BANK ATLANTIC AND CITY COUNTY CREDIT UNION.

B. NATIONAL DAY OF REMEMBRANCE (REQUESTED BY MAYOR RICHARD J. KAPLAN).

ORDINANCES & PUBLIC HEARINGS ----- FIRST READING:

1. ORDINANCE NO. 11O-05-122: APPROVING THE FRANCHISE WITH REPUBLIC SERVICES OF FLORIDA, LIMITED PARTNERSHIP D/B/A ALL SERVICE REFUSE TO PROVIDE REFUSE COLLECTION, REMOVAL AND DISPOSAL SERVICES FOR THE TERM JULY 1, 2011 THROUGH JUNE 30, 2016. Second Reading will be May 23, 2011 at 5:30 pm at a Special Commission Meeting.

2. ORDINANCE NO. 11O-05-123: TO CREATE A SECOND TIER FOR FIREFIGHTERS HIRED ON OR AFTER OCTOBER 1, 2009.

3. ORDINANCE NO. 11O-05-124: LOCAL BUSINESS TAXES TO RATES BY FIVE PERCENT (5%) AS IS REASONABLE AND NECESSARY AND AS IS AUTHORIZED BY FLORIDA STATUTES, SECTION 205.0535(4).

RESOLUTIONS
ADMINISTRATION

4. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-05-75: APPROVING THE FIRST AMENDMENT TO THE OPERATING AND LEASE AGREEMENT BETWEEN BROWARD COUNTY AND THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL FOR THE LEASE OF REAL PROPERTY FOR DESIGN, DEVELOPMENT, CONSTRUCTION, OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE OF A CULTURAL CENTER AND LIBRARY IMMEDIATELY ADJACENT TO CENTRAL BROWARD REGIONAL PARK.

5. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-05-76: APPROVING THE REVOCABLE LICENSE AGREEMENT BETWEEN BROWARD COUNTY AND THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL RELATIVE TO THE INITIAL LANDSCAPING, GROUNDS, IRRIGATION AND DRAINAGE SYSTEM AND FOR THE REPAIR AND REPLACEMENT OF ANY SUCH IRRIGATION AND DRAINAGE SYSTEM RELATIVE TO THE CULTURAL CENTER AND LIBRARY IMMEDIATELY ADJACENT TO CENTRAL BROWARD REGIONAL PARK.

COMMISSION

6. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-05-79: APPROVING THE RECOMMENDATION OF THE EDUCATIONAL ADVISORY BOARD TO DISBURSE FUNDS IN THE AMOUNT OF $1,725.00 TO THE ENDEAVOR PRIMARY LEARNING CENTER FOR THE PURCHASE OF CD PLAYERS FOR THE CLASSROOMS.

DEES

7. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-05-80: APPROVING THE AWARD OF CONTRACT TO RIC-MAN INTERNATIONAL, INC. FOR EMERGENCY REPAIR SERVICES IN THE AMOUNT OF $59,520.00 DUE TO DAMAGE TO THE CITY’S 24” WATER MAIN PIPE LOCATED AT INVERRARY BOULEVARD WEST AND OAKLAND PARK BOULEVARD CAUSED BY HYPOWER, INC., A CONTRACTOR FOR FPL FIBERNET, LLC, DURING EXPLORATORY EXCAVATION; PROVIDING PAYMENT FROM BUDGET CODE NUMBER 401-931-6310 UNTIL AN INSURANCE CLAIM CAN BE PROCESSED.

8. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-05-81: APPROVING THE WAIVER OF COMPETITIVE BIDDING; APPROVING THE PURCHASE OF TWO (2) FORD F450 4x2 REGULAR CAB 165” WHEEL BASE 84” CAB TO AXLE UTILITY CRANE TRUCKS FROM ALAN JAY FLEET AUTOMOTIVE BASED UPON THE AWARD OF CONTRACT BY THE FLORIDA STATE CONTRACT #071-000-11-1 FROM THE DIVISION OF STATE PURCHASING; PROVIDING FOR PAYMENT IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $118,395.40 FROM BUDGET CODE NUMBER 401-931-6420.

YMCA - Project P.A.U.S.E.

2011-05-19T01:53:00.004-04:00

Summer Team Leadership Camp 2011 at St. George Community Center

2011-05-16T01:18:00.001-04:00

Lauderhill Broncos Youth Football and Cheer Program Registration

2011-05-13T01:10:00.004-04:00

An Open House Registration Party is scheduled for Saturday, May 14 from 12 noon to 3 PM, at West Ken Lark Community Center.

Athletes, Parents, Volunteers and Coaches are needed.

For more information go to www.lauderhillbroncos.org or call 954-826-0100.

Lauderhill Plans to Cut Back Community Shuttle Buses

2011-05-10T00:09:00.004-04:00

On May 16 at 6:30 pm at the Lauderhill City Hall, the City Commission will be voting on cutting back the hours on the 5 Lauderhill Community Shuttle Buses from 60 hours/week to 36 hours/week. The reason for the reduced hours is to reduce the cost of the bus system to the city by approximately $195,000.

Over the years, the Broward County has been reducing the support for the Community Shuttle Bus Program, and now only provides $15/revenue hour. The cost is just under $32/revenue hour to operate, which the difference is paid for by the city.

Previously, Mayor Kaplan was the only vote against the recent prior budget adjustment which reduced funding for the Shuttle Bus system.

All routes and times will be effected.

A Message about Accredition from the Police Chief

2011-05-07T01:43:00.000-04:00

I am proud to announce that the Lauderhill Police Department has been recommended to be re-accredited by the Florida Commission on Law Enforcement Accreditation. The recommendation will be submitted to the full Florida Commission on June 30, 2011 in Bonita Springs, Florida.

An accreditation program has long been recognized as a means of maintaining the highest standards of professionalism. Schools, universities, and hospitals are some of the well known organizations that mandate accreditation. Only about a third of the law enforcement organizations in Florida are accredited of which the Lauderhill Police Department has been since 2005.

The accreditation process requires an in-depth review of every aspect of the police department’s organization , management, operations, and administration. Three State assessors from out of the area spent the last three days reviewing our policies and procedures including such areas as training, vehicle stops, arrests, use of force, and evidence collection. The review includes evidence that the policies and procedures have been followed the past three years. The assessors reviewed files, conducted interviews, rode with officers and observed all operations.

There are 261 mandated State standards that must be passed to maintain accredited status. Accreditation serves as a yardstick to measure the effectiveness of the department’s programs and services. The services provided are defined, and uniformity of service is assured.

Our employees take pride in knowing that we achieved re-accreditation which shows our excellence and competence as one of the best agencies in law enforcement.

Chief Ken Pachnek
City of Lauderhill Police Department

Notes of the Commission Meeting of April 25

2011-05-05T02:07:00.002-04:00

On April 25, the City Commission held a Regular Commission Meeting, and the following were acted upon (all items passed unaminously unless otherwise provided):

ORDINANCES & PUBLIC HEARINGS ----- FIRST READING:

1. ORDINANCE NO. 11O-04-122: APPROVING THE FRANCHISE WITH REPUBLIC SERVICES OF FLORIDA, LIMITED PARTNERSHIP D/B/A ALL SERVICE REFUSE TO PROVIDE REFUSE COLLECTION, REMOVAL AND DISPOSAL SERVICES FOR THE TERM JULY 1, 2011 THROUGH JUNE 30, 2016. Withdrawn from Agenda.

ORDINANCES & PUBLIC HEARINGS --- SECOND READING:

2. ORDINANCE NO. 11O-04-117: AMENDING THE CODE OF ORDINANCES, CHAPTER 2, ADMINISTRATION, ARTICLE IV, CITY COMMISSION, SECTION 2-169, PRESIDING OFFICER AND ALTERNATE PRESIDING OFFICER (REQUESTED BY COMMISSIONER HAYWARD J. BENSON, JR.). Passed 4-1 with Mayor Kaplan voting against.

3. ORDINANCE NO. 11O-04-118: APPROVING THE SIX MONTH REVIEW BUDGET ADJUSTMENTS AND REVENUE AND EXPENDITURE AMENDMENTS, AND ROLL-FORWARDS FOR FUNDS; REFLECTING ADJUSTMENTS TO VARIOUS REVENUE AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNTS; PROVIDING VARIOUS BUDGET CODE NUMBERS. Passed 4-1 with Mayor Kaplan voting against.

RESOLUTIONS
ADMINISTRATION

4. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-04-60: APPROVING THE 12th AMENDMENT TO THE INTERLOCAL AGREEMENT BETWEEN BROWARD COUNTY AND CONTRACT COMMUNITIES, INCLUDING THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL, DATED NOVEMBER 25, 1986 FOR SOLID WASTE DISPOSAL SERVICES, PROVIDING FOR THE RESOURCE RECOVERY BOARD TO SET TIPPING FEES BASED UPON ACTUAL COST OF MAINTAINING AND FUNDING THE RESOURCE RECOVERY SYSTEM BEGINNING OCTOBER 1, 2011; PROVIDING TERMS AND CONDITIONS; AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE THE AGREEMENT; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.

5. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-04-61: APPROVING THE ARTIST AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL AND MICHELLE GUTLOVE FOR SCULPTURAL DESIGN, FABRICATION, DELIVERY AND INSTALLATION AT CITY HALL.

DEES

6. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-04-65: APPROVING AND ACCEPTING THE EASEMENT AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE SCHOOL BOARD OF BROWARD COUNTY AND THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL FOR A THIRTY-FIVE FOOT (35’) WIDE ADDITION TO THE EXISTING FIFTEEN FOOT (15’) WIDE EASEMENT FOR AN IMPROVEMENTS PROJECT TO BE FUNDED BY THE FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION GRANT TO REPLACE THE EXISTING PUBLIC PATHWAY WITH A LANDSCAPED AND LIGHTED MEANDERING PUBLIC PEDESTRIAN PATHWAY TO THE TURNPIKE OVERPASS; PROVIDING FOR A GRANT IN THE AMOUNT OF $255,000.00 WITH NO MATCH REQUIREMENTS.

FINANCE

7. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-04-66: APPROVING THE MEMORANDUM OF AGREEMENT BETWEEN BROWARD COUNTY AND THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL FOR BUSINESS RECOVERY CENTER(S) TO BE ACTIVATED IN THE EVENT OF AN EMERGENCY OR DISASTER; PROVIDING TERMS AND CONDITIONS; AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE THE AGREEMENT.

8. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-04-67: APPROVING THE INTERLOCAL AGREEMENT BETWEEN BROWARD COUNTY AND THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL FOR EMERGENCY SHELTER GRANT (ESG) FUNDING FOR HOMELESS PREVENTION ASSISTANCE (CONTRACT NO. 11-FSAD-8154-1.

9. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-04-68: APPROVING A LOAN IN THE AMOUNT OF $380,000.00 TO THE WINDERMERE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION TO FURTHER THE HEALTH AND SAFETY IMPROVEMENTS TO THE COMMON AREAS WITHIN THE WINDERMERE COMMUNITY; PROVIDING THAT THIS FUNDING IS CURRENTLY PROVIDED THROUGH THE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT (CDBG) PROGRAM.

PALS

10. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-04-71: APPROVING THE SITE AGREEMENT FOR NUTRITIONAL SERVICES BETWEEN THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL AND BROWARD MEALS-ON- WHEELS FOR ELIGIBLE PARTICIPANTS OF THE SADKIN COMMUNITY/SENIOR CENTER; PROVIDING TERMS AND CONDITIONS;
AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE THE AGREEMENT.

HR

11. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-04-73: APPROVING AND RATIFYING THE COLLECTIVE BARGAINING AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY AND THE FLORIDA STATE LODGE, FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE LODGE, #161 IN EFFECT FROM OCTOBER 1, 2010 THROUGH SEPTEMBER 30, 2013; AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO SIGN THE AGREEMENT ON BEHALF OF THE CITY.

QUASI-JUDICIAL MATTERS:
QUASI-JUDICIAL MATTERS, FIRST READING:

12. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-04-74: GRANTING TO THE OWNER, BALKANI REALTY, INC., A SPECIAL EXCEPTION USE DEVELOPMENT ORDER WITH CONDITIONS TO ALLOW IN THE GENERAL COMMERCIAL (CG) ZONING DISTRICT AN AUTOMOTIVE BODY REPAIR USE AT 6440-6464 WEST COMMERCIAL BOULEVARD, LAUDERHILL, FLORIDA. Fails 0-5.

NEW BUSINESS:

A Special Commission Meeting was agreed upon for May 23, 2011 at 5:30 PM to act upon Ordinance No. 11O-04-122 listed above.

Police Memorial Service

2011-05-02T13:49:00.003-04:00

Residents Urged to Conserve Water as Broward Experiences Historic Drought

2011-04-30T01:33:00.000-04:00

Broward County reminds all residents to conserve water in response to severe drought conditions and a March 21 Water Shortage Warning issued by the South Florida Water Management District.

During of February, Broward County received just 0.17 inches of rain, and from October through February Florida's Lower East Coast received less than half the average rainfall for this five-month period.

This lack of rainfall has caused surface and groundwater levels to decrease throughout the County, in the Water Conservation Areas and urban Broward County alike, with potential impacts on water supply. Lake Okeechobee, a secondary source of water for southeast Florida, is currently at an elevation of 11.61 feet, more than 2 feet below normal for this time of year.

Consequently, water from Lake Okeechobee is not available for delivery to the water conservation areas under these conditions. No significant rainfall is forecast in the coming weeks and based on La Niña conditions the below average rainfall is expected to persist through the dry season.

Residents are reminded that permanent water conservation measures limit landscape irrigation to two days a week. These measures are reinforced with the water shortage warning and Modified Phase II Landscape Irrigation Restrictions. Residences and businesses with an odd-numbered street address may water on Wednesdays and/or Saturdays, only before 10 a.m. or after 4 p.m. Residences and businesses with an even-numbered street address may water on Thursdays and/or Sundays, again only before 10 a.m. or after 4 p.m.

Other water conservation tips include:

• Limit irrigation to just 20 minutes per zone to apply one-half to three-quarters inch of water.

• Use native and drought tolerant plants when considering new landscaping.

• Wash vehicles over grassy areas to allow water to soak into the ground.

• Fix any leaks you may have in your home, including toilets and dripping faucets.

• Replace inefficient water fixtures with low-flow versions.

• Operate dishwashers and clothes washers only when full.

Swim Lessons

2011-04-27T01:21:00.002-04:00

SWIM LESSONS REGISTRATION March 21 - 26 April 11 - 16 May 2 - 7 May 23 - 28

REGISTRATION

June 13 - 18 July 4 - 9 July 25 - 30 August 15 - 20 September 5 -10 September 26 - October 1 October 17 - 22

CLASS June 20 - 30 July 11 - 21 August 1 - 11 August 22 - September 1 September 12 -22 October 3 - 13 October 24 - November 3

CLASS March 28 - April 7 April 18 - 28 May 9 - 19 May 31 - June 9

Veterans Park Pool 7600 NW 50 Street Lauderhill, FL 33351 Phone: 954.572.1459

Wolk Park Pool 1080 NW 42nd Way Lauderhill, FL 33313 Phone: 954.321.2465

Cost: $35 Residents/ $150 Non-Residents Class dates are subject to change NO SPRING CLASSES AT WOLK PARK POOL

Lauderhill Credit Ratings for Bonds Goes Up

2011-04-24T01:12:00.001-04:00

Standard and Poors has notified the City of Lauderhill that the city's credit ratings on two bonds has increased.

The City of Lauderhill, Florida, General Obligation Bonds has increased from "A" to "A+"
The City of Lauderhill, Florida, Certificate of Participation (City Hall Project) has increased from "A-" to "A"

LAUDERHILL SUMMER CAMP 2011

2011-04-21T01:59:00.000-04:00

THE PARKS AND LEISURE SERVICES DEPARTMENT IS PLEASED TO ANNOUNCE PLANS FOR SUMMER CAMP 2011!

DATES: Monday, June 13th – Friday, August 19th (no camp on Monday, July 4th) AGES: Children must be going into Kindergarten through 6th grade, ages 5-12 years old. (a birth certificate as proof of age is needed). SORRY – NO PRE-K!!!

SITES: Veterans Park – (max 100 children) and Sadkin Center – (max 50 children) FEES / CAMP HOURS Veterans Park/Sadkin Center 7:30 AM – 6:00 PM (Residents) $700.00 per child* 7:30 AM – 6:00 PM (Non-Residents) $900.00 per child*

*Fees include field trips, swimming, arts and crafts, one camp T-shirt, and trip transportation.

Optional Field Trips will be available at an additional cost.

Lunch and snacks will be provided to all campers free of charge through the Florida Summer Food Program.

Additional t-shirts may be purchased at $10 each. **Family Central accepted** – call ASP, Inc. 954-596-9000

PAYMENT/REFUND POLICY: Summer camp tuition will be collected on a bi-weekly basis. Your first payment of $140.00 (residents) or $180.00/non-residents is due at registration.

All payments will be collected in advance on Friday for the upcoming 2 week session.

Fees are non-refundable. Cash will not be accepted and there are no refunds.

If payment is not made by the first day of the new session, a $20.00 late fee will be added to your bi-weekly tuition. Bi-weekly payments ($140.00 for residents/$180.00 for non-residents) will be collected Monday through Thursday of the following weeks: the week of June 27th, the week of July 11th, the week of July 25th and the week of August 8th

GROUP/STAFF/SUPERVISION: Campers will be divided into groups according to the grade they will be entering in August. Campers will be supervised by our experienced and qualified camp directors and counselors. All staff members have been fingerprinted and background screened and meet the educational and medical requirements mandated by law.

The City of Lauderhill’s Summer Camp 2011 program will be operated by After School Programs, Inc “The Child Care Professionals”

LUNCHES: All lunch & snacks will be supplied by After School Programs, Inc. through The Florida Summer Food Program

PROGRAM: Fun weekly themes give campers the opportunity to learn, imagine and create while making new friends. Weekly organized activities may include sports & games, arts & crafts, music, dance, cooking, and swimming.

ALL OF THIS IS INCLUDED IN THE PRICE OF THE CAMP. REGISTRATION INFORMATION *For additional information please call After School Programs, Inc. 954-596-9000 or Veterans Park 954-572-1459 Sadkin Community Center 954-321-2450

VETERANS PARK 7600 NW 50TH STREET (954) 572-1459 SADKIN COMMUNITY CENTER 1176 NW 42ND WAY (954) 321-2450

THE FOLLOWING MUST BE PROVIDED AT THE TIME OF REGISTRATION 1) Proof of residency (Drivers License, Utility bill, etc.). . 2) A birth certificate as proof of child’s age (5-12). 3) CHECK OR MONEY ORDERS ONLY ONSITE!!!!!! NO CREDIT CARD AND CASH CALL ASP, INC.

Families using Family Central are welcome Any individual who has a disability which requires a reasonable accommodation in order to participate fully and effectively in this program should notify the Parks & Leisure Services Department at the time of registration.

Trinis Crowned 2011 Night Cricket Champions!!

2011-04-18T01:18:00.001-04:00

Lauderhill - MAQ T20 International Night Cricket Tournament

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
For the first time in ten seasons, Trinidad & Tobago defeated Jamaica by 13 runs to raise the Champions Mayor’s Cup of the renowned Lauderhill - MAQ T20 International Night Cricket Tournament. Last Saturday Night’s Championship Match had Jamaica defending its string of titles against Trinidad & Tobago who was competing in the finals for the second time at the Lauderhill Sport’s Park.

After losing the toss and invited to bat by the Jamaicans, Trinidad & Tobago captain and tournament MVP Timothy Surujbally hit a bazooka 66 from 29 balls to the lead the Trinis to 194 for 6 from 20 overs. Surujbally unleased five delightful fours and seven powerful sixes as he entertained the large crowd with delectable stroke play. After his dismissal, Leon Garrick slummed 50 runs from 40 balls including three fours and four sixes, while Joey Pierre scored 21 and Baliram Nayaik 18. Bowling for Jamaica, Herlando Johnson bagged 3 for 33, while Ken Wright grabbed 1 for 11, Andrew Williams 1 for 32 and Eian Thomas 1 for 37.

In reply, the Jamaicans run chase was blunted from the inception when Gaston Walker (4-0-37-1) had captained Ken Wright caught and bowled with the third ball of the innings for a duck. Ravi Samlal added to the Jamaicans early misery when he removed power hitters Steven Taylor for 22 and Mark Johnson for 17. The Jamaican’s batsmen struggled to assert themselves and were unable to construct any meaningful partnerships until Glen Anglin’s robust hitting allow them a chance of victory.

Anglin blasted 81 from 41 balls including six fours and seven sixes and shared a six wicket partnership with Keyonie Gayle who scored 20. The Jamaican’s innings ended on 181 in 18.3 overs as the curtains was brought down on another successful Lauderhill Maq T20 International Night Cricket Tournament with the Trinis leaping to victory after Herlando Johnson was brilliantly run out by Stephen Baboolal.

Through the endorsements of the South Florida Cricket Alliance and Florida Southeast Cricket League, the Night Cricket Tournament has achieved the reputation as cricket’s largest and most-popular night tournament. Underwritten by Cricket Council USA, a sports and entertainment management Company and the City of Lauderhill, this year’s tournament enjoying record-breaking crowds each Saturday night at the Lauderhill Sports Park were fans have been thrilled by the high level of cricket competition.

After the game, Mayor Richard J. Kaplan, City of Lauderhill and CCUSA CEO, Mohammed A. Qureshi award the Mayor’s Cup and winning purse from Cricket Council USA. Mr. Qureshi and Mayor Kaplan hailed the explosive Trinidad & Tobago team members, as they notched their first Championship.

The finals dubbed the “Cricket Night of Champions” were highlighted by an exhibition game by the members of the Worldwide Cricket Academy of Lauderhill, followed by the effervescent sounds of Steel Pan music by Jonathan Baboolal. The spectators were dazzled by special guest appearance by the SunDanz Dance Company cheerleaders and the South Florida Carnival Bandleaders featuring some of the 2011 masquerade bands in costume, with each band’s masqueraders wearing exotic and extravagant costumes.

Notes of the Regular Commission Meeting of April 11

2011-04-16T01:07:00.005-04:00

On April 11, the City Commission met is a Regular Commission Meeting. The following are notes of interest (all items passed unanimously, unless otherwise indicated):

REGULAR COMMISSION MEETING:

VII. PRESENTATIONS

A. PRESENTATIONS TO THE TOP FOUR WINNERS OF THE LAUDERHILL COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIP 2011: KEVIN WHITFILED, EMILY SENDEREY, CIARA BRENEE CLARKE, AND KAMIA TAYLOR.

ORDINANCES & PUBLIC HEARINGS ----- FIRST READING:

1. ORDINANCE NO. 11O-04-117: AMENDING THE CODE OF ORDINANCES, CHAPTER 2, ADMINISTRATION, ARTICLE IV, CITY COMMISSION, SECTION 2-169, PRESIDING OFFICER AND ALTERNATE PRESIDING OFFICER. Passes 4-1 with Mayor Richard J Kaplan voting against.

2. ORDINANCE NO. 11O-04-118: APPROVING THE SIX MONTH REVIEW BUDGET ADJUSTMENTS AND REVENUE AND EXPENDITURE AMENDMENTS, AND ROLL-FORWARDS FOR FUNDS; REFLECTING ADJUSTMENTS TO VARIOUS REVENUE AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNTS; PROVIDING VARIOUS BUDGET CODE NUMBERS. Passes 4-1 with Mayor Richard J Kaplan voting against due to the cut back in community shuttle buses.

3. ORDINANCE NO. 11O-04-121: REVISING THE DEFINITION OF ANCILLARY SUPPORT USE TO ALLOW BANQUET HALLS AND INDOOR LIVE ENTERTAINMENT TO BE OPEN TO THE GENERAL PUBLIC.

ORDINANCES & PUBLIC HEARINGS --- SECOND READING:

4. ORDINANCE NO. 11O-03-108: TO REQUIRE CITY BOARDS AND COMMITTEES TO UPDATE THE CITY COMMISSION AS TO THE STATUS OF MATTERS THEY ARE WORKING ON FOLLOWING THE PUBLIC COMMUNICATION PORTION OF THE COMMISSION MEETING ON A ROTATING BASIS.

5. ORDINANCE NO. 11O-03-109: TO ALLOW CITY COMMISSIONERS TO ATTEND MEETINGS VIA A FORM OF TELECOMMUNICATION IN LIMITED CIRCUMSTANCES; PROVIDING THAT THE MAYOR SHALL ONLY PRESIDE AT A MEETING WHEN PHYSICALLY PRESENT(REQUESTED BY MAYOR RICHARD J. KAPLAN).

6. ORDINANCE NO. 11O-03-115: REPEALING ORDINANCE NO. 10O-03-114, WHICH ESTABLISHED A ONE YEAR MORATORIUM ON DYNAMIC DISPLAY SIGNS; ADDING SUBSECTION 6.0(w), WHICH PROHIBITS DYNAMIC DISPLAY SIGNS EXCEPT FOR WINDOW SIGNS, A SECTION 15.2a SIGN AND SCOREBOARD SIGNS; AMENDING SUBSECTION 8.0.(B)3.e. TO PROHIBIT DYNAMIC DISPLAY GROUND/DIRECTORY SIGNS IN SHOPPING CENTERS; AMENDING SUBSECTION 8.0.(B)3.f. TO PROHIBIT DYNAMIC DISPLAY GROUND/DIRECTORY SIGNS IN THE GENERAL COMMERCIAL (CG) ZONING DISTRICT; AMENDING SUBSECTION 15.2.A TO ESTABLISH A MAXIMUM SIGN HEIGHT.

RESOLUTIONS

ADMINISTRATION

7. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-04-51: APPROVING THE FIFTH AMENDMENT TO THE CONTRACT BETWEEN THE BROWARD COUNTY LIBRARY SYSTEM AND THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL FOR THE EXTENSION OF THE LEASE OF THE EAST SIDE LIBRARY THROUGH THE PERIOD ENDING SEPTEMBER 30, 2014.

COMMISSION

8. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-04-52: DESIGNATING A DIRECTOR, ALTERNATE AND SECOND ALTERNATE AS MUNICIPAL APPOINTMENTS TO THE BROWARD LEAGUE OF CITIES BOARD OF DIRECTORS FOR THE 2011-2012 YEAR.

9. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-04-53: EMPHASIZING OUR COMMITMENT TO MAINTAIN CIVILITY IN THE CONDUCT OF THE PUBLIC’S BUSINESS(REQUESTED BY COMMISSIONER M. MARGARET BATES).

10. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-04-55: URGING CONGRESS TO SUPPORT LEGISLATION THAT CLEARLY AFFIRMS THE RIGHT OF STATE AND LOCAL GOVERNMENTS TO EXERCISE LIENS OR ASSESS SPECIAL TAXES, OR OTHER PROPERTY OBLIGATIONS TO PROTECT AND IMPROVE HOUSING STOCK BY DIRECTING FEDERAL REGULATORS TO ENFORCE UNDERWRITING STANDARDS THAT ARE CONSISTENT WITH GUIDELINES ISSUED BY THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY FOR PROPERTY ASSESSED CLEAN ENERGY (PACE); PROVIDING THAT ASSESSED CLEAN ETC. AND DIRECTING FEDERAL REGULATORS TO ENFORCE UNDERWRITING STANDARDS THAT ARE CONSISTENT WITH PACE GUIDELINES; PROVIDING FOR DISTRIBUTION OF RESOLUTION (REQUESTED BY MAYOR RICHARD J. KAPLAN).

FIRE

11. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-04-56: RATIFYING THE MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL AND THE METRO BROWARD PROFESSIONAL FIREFIGHTERS, LOCAL 3080 TO AMEND ARTICLE 38 OF THE COLLECTIVE BARGAINING AGREEMENT RELATIVE TO THE TWO TIER PENSION PLAN.

HR

12. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-04-57: APPROVING THE SETTLEMENT AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL AND JEFFREY BINDER IN THE AMOUNT OF $61,000.00.

PALS

13. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-04-58: APPROVING THE GRANT APPLICATION AND LETTER OF INTENT TO DESIGN, PLAN AND BUILD A KABOOM PLAYGROUND, BENCHES AND LANDSCAPING FOR THE JOHN E. MULLIN PARK; PROVIDING TERMS AND CONDITIONS; PROVIDING THAT THE CITY WILL PROVIDE A CASH MATCH IN THE AMOUNT OF $8,500.00 TOWARDS THE PLAYGROUND EQUIPMENT; AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE THE NECESSARY DOCUMENTS RELATIVE TO THE KABOOM PLAYGROUND PROJECT.

POLICE

14. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-04-59: APPROVING THE EXPENDITURE OF STATE LOCAL LAW ENFORCEMENT TRUST FUNDS (LETF) IN THE AMOUNT OF $4,502.64 TO PURCHASE AND INSTALL REPLACEMENT CARPETING AT THE POLICE DEPARTMENT RESOURCE 4 FLOORS BASED UPON THE FLORIDA STATE CONTRACT (360-240-06-1); PROVIDING FOR PAYMENT FROM BUDGET CODE NUMBER 120-683-9935.

NEW BUSINESS:

CANCEL THE REGULAR COMMISSION WORKSHOP ON APRIL 18, 2011.

Special Commission Meeting Notes Concerning Waste Contractor Company

2011-04-14T00:25:00.009-04:00

On April 11, the City Commission met is a Special Commission Meeting. The following are notes of interest (all items passed unanimously, unless otherwise indicated):

SPECIAL COMMISSION MEETING:

ITEM #1. RESOLUTION NO. 11R-03-38: APPROVING THE AWARD OF BID TO REPUBLIC SERVICES OF FLORIDA, LIMITED PARTNERSHIP D/B/A ALL SERVICE REFUSE TO PROVIDE SOLID WASTE COLLECTION SERVICES FOR THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL PURSUANT TO BID #2010-025; AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO NEGOTIATE THE SPECIFIC TERMS OF THE FRANCHISE AGREEMENT TO PROVIDE SUCH SERVICES; PROVIDING THAT THIS BID AWARD IS CONTINGENT UPON THE PARTIES REACHING MUTUAL AGREEMENT ON THE TERMS OF THE FRANCHISE AGREEMENT AND UPON THE MUTUAL SETTLEMENT OF THE BID PROTEST.

Import/Export Workshops Offer Assistance in International Trade

2011-04-12T00:23:00.006-04:00

The Broward County Office of Economic and Small Business Development, in partnership with Becker & Poliakoff Law Firm, will present their annual series of three import/ export workshops on April 20, June 22 and September 21. All workshops will be held from 8 to 10 a.m. in the Einstein Room at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts, 201 S.W. Fifth Ave., Fort Lauderdale.

This series was developed to assist established local business owners in conducting business in the global marketplace. Attendees will learn about obtaining letters of credit, freight forwarding, logistics and more. Each workshop will be presented by Peter Quinter, partner, Customs and International Trade Law, Becker & Poliakoff. Workshop topics for 2011 are as follows:

• Session 1: Wednesday, April 20 Importing into the United States for International Trade Professionals

• Session 2: Wednesday, June 22 Exporting Compliance for International Trade Professionals

• Session 3: Wednesday, September 21 Importing Food Products in Compliance with FDA and U.S. Customs Rules

Cost for each workshop is $30. Advance registration is required and includes continental breakfast (served from 8 to 8:30 a.m.). To register online by credit card, visit http://www.becker-poliakoff.com/, and click Seminars under EVENTS & VIDEO. If payment by check is preferred, make payable to "Becker & Poliakoff," indicate the selected session(s) and date(s), and mail to: Becker & Poliakoff, Attn: Peter Quinter, 3111 Stirling Road, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312.

Individuals with disabilities requiring accommodations in order to participate must make a request at the time of registration or at least 10 business days prior to the scheduled workshop. For additional information on the "Import/Export" workshop series, contact the Broward County Office of Economic and Small Business Development at 954-357-6400 (voice), 954-357-5664(TTY) or visit www.broward.org/EconDev.

Please note that Lauderhill has a International Trade Incubator Program. Those that are interested can go to, http://www.lauderhillcra.com/.