Notes to the CRA Meeting and Regular Commission Meeting

On April 13, the City Commission met and the following items of interest were covered:

CRA MEETING:

1) BUSINESS LOAN PROGRAM - Involved micro-loans up to $2500, with a match from the business, for working capital, equipment/machinery, furniture and fixtures. Interest free, and could be forgivable. Loan range from 12 months to 36 months. Funding from CRA or CDBG funds. Also, Commercial Facade Rehabilitation Grant up to $5000 for landscaping, facade imrpovements, signage, paint and parking. Requires a match from the business, and the city's contributino to be used for landsacping improvements in public right of way. Funding coming from Lauderhill Tree Preservation Fund.

2) FALMOUTH SISTER CITIES TRIP - 15 people are privately paying to participate in this program. Art will be shipped down as part of this event. There are several other scheduled activities during the trip, including meeting with the Chamber of Commerce.

3) NEIGHBORHOOD STABILIZATION PROGRAM - Program is proceeding. Can only be used for residential properties.

4) GOSPEL COMPLEX - Update given on the facility by Al Tucker. Upcoming Conference May 2-6. They are moving forward in purchasing the property and obtaining further funding to buy and build.

5) DIRECTOR’S REPORT

A) RCP FUNDS - We are working to draw down the rest of the money of just over $5 Million.

B) CIVIC IQ AND RECON EXPO - CRA Board previously approved. The CIVIC IQ program is proceeding, and responses will become available by the end of April. Expo's are in May and August, and the responses from CIVIC IQ will be used for those Expo's.

C) NEW BUSINESS - Examining cultural facilities and provide suggestions for how these areas could go forward. Creating focus groups in areas around Lauderhill is formed. Information will be forwarded to Commissioners. Continuing discussions on private developements on 441 occured. Detailed information on the Cultural Arts/Library were requested, so that we do not violate the city's GO Bond requirements on this project.


REGULAR COMMISSION MEETING:

PRESENTATION:

Presentation introducing the winners of the 2nd Annual Lauderhill College Essay Scholarship. See prior article on the winners.

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

1. Approved ORDINANCE NO. 09O-03-118: PROVIDING FOR THE ISSUANCE OF ITS $6,000,000 CITY OF LAUDERHILL, FLORIDA STORMWATER UTILITY REVENUE BONDS, SERIES 2009 AS ADDITIONAL BONDS UNDER ORDINANCE NO. 04O-04-124 ENACTED ON MAY 10, 2004 FOR THE PURPOSE OF FINANCING THE ACQUISITION, CONSTRUCTION AND EQUIPPING OF ADDITIONS, EXTENSIONS, RENOVATIONS AND IMPROVEMENTS TO THE CITY’S STORMWATER MANAGEMENT UTILITY AND PAYING COSTS OF ISSUANCE OF THE SERIES 2009.

2. Approved ORDINANCE NO. 09O-03-119: CREATING ARTICLE VIII, SAFE NEIGHBORHOOD IMPROVEMENT DISTRICTS, DIVISION I, GENERALLY; PROVIDING INTENT, PURPOSE, AND AUTHORIZING THE ESTABLISHMENT OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT SAFE NEIGHBORHOOD IMPROVEMENT DISTRICTS GENERALLY WITHIN THE CITY; PROVIDING DEFINITIONS; PROVIDING THE COMPOSITION OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS; PROVIDING ELIGIBILITY TO REQUEST GRANTS, TO LEVY AD VALOREM TAXES ON REAL AND PERSONAL PROPERTY OF UP TO 2 MILLS ANNUALLY, AND AUTHORITY TO COLLECT SPECIAL ASSESSMENTS TO SUPPORT PLANNING AND IMPLEMENTATION OF THE DISTRICT IMPROVEMENTS INCLUDING COMMUNITY POLICING INNOVATIONS PURSUANT TO FLORIDA STATUTES, SECTION 197.3635 IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $500.00 FOR EACH INDIVIDUAL PARCEL OF LAND PER YEAR. (At this time this only applies to an area in the central section of the city who requested it by a vote of the owners. See 3 below).

3. Approved ORDINANCE NO. 09O-03-120: CREATING ARTICLE VIII, SAFE NEIGHBORHOOD IMPROVEMENT DISTRICTS, DIVISION 2, WINDERMERE/TREE GARDENS SAFE NEIGHBORHOOD IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT; ESTABLISHMENT OF SPECIFIC NAMED DISTRICT, DEFINING DISTRICT BOUNDARIES; PROVIDING ELIGIBILITY TO REQUEST GRANTS, TO LEVY AD VALOREM TAXES ON REAL AND PERSONAL PROPERTY OF UP TO 2 MILLS ANNUALLY, AND AUTHORITY TO COLLECT SPECIAL ASSESSMENTS TO SUPPORT PLANNING AND IMPLEMENTATION OF THE DISTRICT IMPROVEMENTS INCLUDING COMMUNITY POLICING INNOVATIONS PURSUANT TO FLORIDA STATUTES, SECTION 197.3635 IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $500.00 FOR EACH INDIVIDUAL PARCEL OF LAND PER YEAR; DESIGNATING BOARD OF DIRECTORS; ESTABLISHING ADVISORY COUNCIL.

4. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-04-84: APPOINTING WIN HOFFMAN BY THE COMMISSION AS A WHOLE TO SERVE AS A MEMBER OF THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL PLANNING AND ZONING BOARD FOR THE UNEXPIRED TERM OF SOL SIEGLER EXPIRING NOVEMBER 2010.


D.E.E.S.

5. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-04-86: AWARDING THE BID TO TRAN CONSTRUCTION, INC., THE LOWEST QUALIFIED BIDDER, AS THE CONTRACTOR TO SERVE AS THE SOLE SUPPLIER AND INSTALLER OF CONCRETE SIDEWALKS, PADS AND CURBS WITHIN THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL FOR THE PERIOD COMMENCING APRIL 1, 2009 THROUGH MARCH 31, 2010; GUARANTEEING PRICES FOR THE ONE-YEAR PERIOD.

6. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-04-87: APPROVING THE AWARD OF BID TO PAVEX CORPORATION D/B/A RANGER CONSTRUCTION SOUTH IN THE AMOUNT OF $1,774,649.60 FOR PLANNED RESURFACING/REBUILDING OF STREETS WITHIN CENTRAL AND EAST LAUDERHILL.


POLICE DEPARTMENT

7. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-04-90: APPROVING THE DONATION IN THE TOTAL AMOUNT OF $2,100.00 FROM THE FEDERAL FORFEITURE FUNDS ALLOCATED FOR DISTRIBUTION BY COMMISSIONER DALE V.C. HOLNESS LAST YEAR TO THE FOLLOWING PROGRAMS: $1,500.00 TO KIWANIS CLUB OF LAUDERHILL EAGLE, $300.00 TO LAUDERHILL MIDDLE SCHOOL AND $300.00 TO THE DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. ELEMENTARY SCHOOL PTA; PROVIDING FOR PAYMENT FROM BUDGET CODE NUMBER 110-683-9936(REQUESTED BY COMMISSIONER DALE V.C. HOLNESS).

8. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-04-91: APPROVING THE EXPENDITURE OF FUNDS FROM THE POLICE DEPARTMENT FEDERAL FORFEITURE FUND IN THE TOTAL AMOUNT OF $22,530.20 FOR THE PURCHASE OF A CHEVROLET SILVERADO EXTENDED CAB PICK-UP TRUCK FROM THE LOW QUOTE, PHIL SMITH CHEVROLET.

9. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-04-92: APPROVING AND ACCEPTING THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE, OFFICE OF JUSTICE PROGRAMS, RECOVERY ACT EDWARD BYRNE MEMORIAL JUSTICE ASSISTANCE GRANT (JAG) FUNDS IN THE AMOUNT OF $264,217.00 AND APPROPRIATING SAID FUNDS; PROVIDING THAT THERE ARE NO MATCHING FUNDS REQUIRED TO ACCEPT THESE GRANTS FUNDS.

10. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-04-93: AUTHORIZING THE POLICE DEPARTMENT TO APPLY FOR THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE, OFFICE OF COMMUNITY ORIENTED POLICING SERVICES (COPS), HIRING RECOVERY ACT GRANT IN THE AMOUNT OF $1,283,085.00; PROVIDING THAT FUNDS ARE REQUIRED TO BE UTILIZED TO HIRE FIVE (5) SWORN LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS TO IMPLEMENT THE EAST LAUDERHILL CRIME REDUCTION INITIATIVE; PROVIDING THAT THERE ARE NO MATCHING FUNDS REQUIRED FOR THESE GRANTS FUNDS.

11. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-04-94: APPROVING THE EXPENDITURE OF ABANDONED PROPERTY FUNDS IN THE AMOUNT OF $2,395.00 TO BURKHARD’S TRACTOR & EQUIPMENT, THE LOW QUOTE, TO PURCHASE AN ENCLOSED TRAILER TO HOUSE AND TRANSPORT POLICE ATV VEHICLES.

Lauderhill College Essay Scholarship Winners Announced

At the April 13th Commission Meeting, the winners of the 2nd Annual Lauderhill College Essay Scholarship was announced. The winners will each receive $500 to go towards their college education. The Lauderhill Educational Advisory Committee selected the winners solely based upon 2 submitted 500 word essays.

The winners, high schools they attended, and colleges they are going to attend are:

Shantaya Dawes, Pompano Beach High, University of South Florida
Shayla Davis, Dillard High, University of Florida
Tiara Robinson, Pompano Beach High, Florida Atlantic University
Dana Warman, Plantation High, Florida Atlantic University

Funding for this program obtained from the Federal Crime Confiscation Fund, which was allocated to Mayor Richard J Kaplan, to use at his discretion on approved programs.

Notes of the Commission Meeting of March 30

On March 30, the City Commission met, and the following are some notes of interest.


PROCLAMATION:

A. A Proclamation declaring March 23, 2009, as a "Day of Remembrance" for Sol Siegler, who passed away.

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

1. Approved ORDINANCE NO. 09O-03-118: PROVIDING FOR THE ISSUANCE OF ITS $6,000,000 CITY OF LAUDERHILL, FLORIDA STORMWATER UTILITY REVENUE BONDS, SERIES 2009 AS ADDITIONAL BONDS UNDER ORDINANCE NO. 04O-04-124 ENACTED ON MAY 10, 2004 FOR THE PURPOSE OF FINANCING THE ACQUISITION, CONSTRUCTION AND EQUIPPING OF ADDITIONS, EXTENSIONS, RENOVATIONS AND IMPROVEMENTS TO THE CITY’S STORMWATER MANAGEMENT UTILITY AND PAYING COSTS OF ISSUANCE OF THE SERIES 2009 .

2. Approved ORDINANCE NO. 09O-03-119: CREATING ARTICLE VIII, SAFE NEIGHBORHOOD IMPROVEMENT DISTRICTS, DIVISION I, GENERALLY; PROVIDING INTENT, PURPOSE, AND AUTHORIZING THE ESTABLISHMENT OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT SAFE NEIGHBORHOOD IMPROVEMENT DISTRICTS GENERALLY WITHIN THE CITY; PROVIDING DEFINITIONS; PROVIDING THE COMPOSITION OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS; PROVIDING ELIGIBILITY TO REQUEST GRANTS, TO LEVY AD VALOREM TAXES ON REAL AND PERSONAL PROPERTY OF UP TO 2 MILLS ANNUALLY, AND AUTHORITY TO COLLECT SPECIAL ASSESSMENTS TO SUPPORT PLANNING AND IMPLEMENTATION OF THE DISTRICT IMPROVEMENTS INCLUDING COMMUNITY POLICING INNOVATIONS PURSUANT TO FLORIDA STATUTES, SECTION 197.3635 IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $500.00 FOR EACH INDIVIDUAL PARCEL OF LAND PER YEAR. (At this time this only applies to an area in the central section of the city who requested it by a vote of the owners. See 3 below).

3. Approved ORDINANCE NO. 09O-03-120: CREATING ARTICLE VIII, SAFE NEIGHBORHOOD IMPROVEMENT DISTRICTS, DIVISION 2, WINDERMERE/TREE GARDENS SAFE NEIGHBORHOOD IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT; ESTABLISHMENT OF SPECIFIC NAMED DISTRICT, DEFINING DISTRICT BOUNDARIES; PROVIDING ELIGIBILITY TO REQUEST GRANTS, TO LEVY AD VALOREM TAXES ON REAL AND PERSONAL PROPERTY OF UP TO 2 MILLS ANNUALLY, AND AUTHORITY TO COLLECT SPECIAL ASSESSMENTS TO SUPPORT PLANNING AND IMPLEMENTATION OF THE DISTRICT IMPROVEMENTS INCLUDING COMMUNITY POLICING INNOVATIONS PURSUANT TO FLORIDA STATUTES, SECTION 197.3635 IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $500.00 FOR EACH INDIVIDUAL PARCEL OF LAND PER YEAR; DESIGNATING BOARD OF DIRECTORS; ESTABLISHING ADVISORY COUNCIL.


ORDINANCES & PUBLIC HEARINGS --- SECOND READING:

4. Approved ORDINANCE NO. 09O-03-114: CHANGING THE ZONING DISTRICT MAP FROM NEIGHBORHOOD COMMERCIAL (CN) TO RESIDENTIAL SINGLE-FAMILY AT FIVE DWELLING UNITS PER GROSS ACRE (RS-5) ZONING DISTRICT AND ALLOCATING 0.802+ NET ACRES/2.09+ GROSS ACRES OF COMMERCIAL TO RESIDENTIAL FLEXIBILITY ACREAGE FOR PROPERTY LEGALLY DESCRIBED AS LOTS 15, 16, 17 AND 18, BLOCK 1, SUNSHINE VILLAS SECOND ADDITION.

5. Approved ORDINANCE NO. 09O-03-115: ADDING THE TERM AND DEFINITION FOR BANQUET HALL; AMENDING SCHEDULE B, PERMITTED AND SPECIAL EXCEPTION USES, TO ALLOW WITHIN THE GENERAL COMMERCIAL (CG) AND COMMERCIAL WAREHOUSE (CW) ZONING DISTRICTS A BANQUET HALL AS A SPECIAL EXCEPTION USE.

6. Approved on a 3 to 2 Vote, ORDINANCE NO. 09O-03-116: AMENDING PARAGRAPH C OF SUBSECTION 15.2 TO MODIFY THE FREQUENCY THAT THE DISPLAY ON A DYNAMIC DISPLAY SIGN MAY CHANGE OR MOVE (REQUESTED BY VICE MAYOR HAYWARD J. BENSON, JR.). Mayor Kaplan and Commissioner Berger voted against the item.

7. Approved ORDINANCE NO. 09O-03-117: BY ADDING “SEPARATION STANDARD OR REQUIREMENT OR DISTANCE REQUIREMENT”; AMENDING ARTICLE III., ZONING DISTRICTS, PART 5.0., SPECIAL REGULATIONS FOR SPECIFIC LAND USE CLASSIFICATIONS, SECTION 5.3., ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES, SUBSECTION 5.3.2., SEPARATION REQUIREMENTS, PARAGRAPH A., AND REPEALING HOW THE DISTANCE BETWEEN ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE USES IS MEASURED AND MAKING OTHER CHANGES; AMENDING PARAGRAPH B., AND REPEALING HOW THE DISTANCE BETWEEN ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE USES AND SCHOOLS IS MEASURED AND MAKING OTHER CHANGES.


RESOLUTIONS
COMMISSION

8. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-03-65: A RESOLUTION APPROVING THE SECOND AMENDMENT TO AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL AND BROWARD COUNTY PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION SERVICES TO EXTEND THE TERM OF THE SHUTTLE BUS SERVICE AGREEMENT THROUGH APRIL 29, 2009.

9. Tabled RESOLUTION NO. 09R-03-66: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL, FLORIDA, SUPPORTING AN AMENDMENT TO THE BROWARD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN WHICH WILL SEEK TO ACHIEVE A THIRTY PERCENT OR MORE TREE CANOPY COVERAGE BY 2030.

10. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-03-67: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL OPPOSING HOUSE BILL (HB) 227 AND SENATE BILL (SB) 580 WHICH REQUIRE LOCAL GOVERNMENTS TO PROVE ELEMENTS OF IMPACT FEES BY A PREPONDERANCE OF THE EVIDENCE AND WHICH PROHIBIT COURTS FROM USING DEFERENTIAL STANDARDS IN COURT ACTIONS; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE (REQUESTED BY COMMISSIONER M. MARGARET BATES).

11. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-03-68: A RESOLUTION REMOVING ANDY H. ANSOLA FROM THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL 50th ANNIVERSARY PLANNING COMMITTEE FOR CAUSE FOR FAILURE TO ATTEND THE REQUIRED NUMBER OF MEETINGS; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE (REQUESTED BY CITY COMMISSION).


COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT

12. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-03-69: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL OF BROWARD COUNTY, FLORIDA, SUPPORTING THE PROPOSED BOUNDARY CHANGE OF THE BROWARD COUNTY/FORT LAUDERDALE ENTERPRISE ZONE TO BE EXPANDED TO INCLUDE ALL OF THE AREAS OF THE STATE ROAD 7 COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AREA THAT ARE NOT CURRENTLY PART OF THE ENTERPRISE ZONE (THE AREA WEST OF STATE ROAD 7.

12A. Approved Resolution No. 09R-03-81. Supporting the filing of a Grant for enhancing the Central Lauderhill Community for additional Public Transit Shelters, from Federal Funds made available through the MPO. It may purchase up to 10 additional facilities


D.E.E.S.

13. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-03-70: A RESOLUTION APPROVING THE LOCALLY FUNDED AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL AND FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION FLORIDA’S TURNPIKE ENTERPRISE IN THE AMOUNT OF $12,650.00 REPRESENTING THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL’S COST FOR THE REMOVAL OF AN ABANDONED 30” CITY MAIN WHICH IS A UTILITY CONFLICT WITHIN THE FLORIDA’S TURNPIKE ENTERPRISE RIGHT-OF-WAY ALONG THE TURNPIKE CROSSING.

13A. Approved Resolution 09R-03-77: Approving the expenditure of $126020 to Cubellis for services in designing the Community Center and Swimming Pool at John Mullins Park.

13B. Approved Resolution 09R-03-78: Approving the expenditure of $72979 to Saltz-Michelson Architects to prepare construction documents for the construction of the new track and field sports complex at West Ken Lark Park.

13C. Approved Resolution 09R-03-79: Approving the expenditure of $44750 to HSQ to design a green park and modifications to parking lot for a new swimming pool at John Mullins Park.

14. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-03-71: ACCEPTING AND APPROVING THE UTILITY EASEMENT DEDICATION FROM COMMUNITY EDUCATION PARTNERS, INC. FOR THE CONSTRUCTION, MAINTENANCE, REPAIR, INSTALLATION AND REBUILDING OF FIRE HYDRANTS AND RELATED WATER FACILITIES ON THE PROPERTY MORE COMMONLY KNOWN AS 4800 NORTH UNIVERSITY DRIVE, LAUDERHILL, FLORIDA.

14A. Approved Resolution No. 09R-03-73: Approving and implementing the City of Lauderhill's neighborhood Stabilization Program (NSP) Funding Guidelines, using a $4,293,288 Federal Grant.


FIRE DEPARTMENT

15. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-03-72: A RESOLUTION WAIVING COMPETITIVE BIDDING REQUIREMENTS; AWARDING THE PURCHASE OF THE LUCAS CHEST COMPRESSION DEVICE (MECHANICAL CPR) IN THE TOTAL AMOUNT OF $81,500.00 FROM PHYSIO-CONTROL, INC., A SOLE SOURCE PROVIDER; PROVIDING FOR PAYMENT IN THE AMOUNT OF $59,970.00 FROM EMS MATCHING STATE GRANT FUNDS AND PROVIDING FOR PAYMENT IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $21,530.00 FROM BUDGET CODE NUMBER 305-321-614.


HUMAN RESOURCES

16. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-03-73: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL APPROVING THE SETTLEMENT WITH WASTE MANAGEMENT, INC. AND AUTHORIZING PAYMENT OF THE REVISED INVOICE IN THE AMOUNT OF $320,000.00.


POLICE DEPARTMENT

17. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-03-74: APPROVING THE EXPENDITURE OF ABANDONED PROPERTY FUNDS IN THE AMOUNT OF $1,644.00 TO ADT TO COMPLETE DOOR UPGRADES IN THE ADMINISTRATIVE AREA OF THE POLICE DEPARTMENT; .

18. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-03-75: A RESOLUTION APPROVING THE EXPENDITURE OF FUNDS FROM THE POLICE DEPARTMENT FEDERAL FORFEITURE FUND IN THE AMOUNT OF $2,000.00 TO DONATE TO THE WINNERS OF THE LAUDERHILL COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIP ESSAY CONTEST TO BE USED TOWARDS TUITION, ROOM, BOARD AND/OR BOOKS FOR THE 2009-10 SCHOOL YEAR.

19. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-03-76: A RESOLUTION APPROVING THE EXPENDITURE OF FUNDS FROM THE POLICE DEPARTMENT FEDERAL FORFEITURE FUND IN THE AMOUNT OF $44,100.00 FOR THE PURCHASE OF FIELD TRAINING MANAGEMENT, EARLY WARNING PERFORMANCE SOFTWARE FROM THE SOLE SOURCE PROVIDER, ON TARGET PERFORMANCE SYSTEMS, LLP.

Cricket Comes to Colleges and Lauderhill is Recognized by the NY Times

Recently, the first collegiate cricket match was held in Lauderhill at the new Central Regional Park. In the process the NY Times covered the event, and Lauderhill was recognized by it. The following is a link to that article, along with the article itself.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/25/sports/othersports/25cricket.html?_r=1&ref=sports

On Spring Break, Cricket Gets Serious

By JOSHUA ROBINSON
Published: March 24, 2009

LAUDERHILL, Fla. — Sandwiched between a soccer game and a barbecue, the Montgomery College cricket team edged closer and closer to victory. And when at last it came, after four days of wickets, overs and sixes, the players were exultant. Just as cricketers do from Australia to Antigua, they snatched the wooden cricket stumps out of the grass and waved them around their heads in mad celebration.

Sachin Gorsahani of the University of Miami tags for a run against Boston University at the American College Spring Break Cricket Championship in Florida.

The players felt they had claimed more than the three-foot trophy for the first American College Cricket spring break championship. In their minds they had brought their sport one step closer to the American mainstream.

Though cricket counts its fans by the billion worldwide, the sport does not register a pulse in the United States. Of the five teams in attendance at this experimental event last weekend — Montgomery, Boston University, Carnegie Mellon, the University of South Florida and the University of Miami — most exist only as social clubs. None of them has club team status, and the sport is not officially recognized by the N.C.A.A.

“This is an opportunity for us to really show athletic directors at a Division I level that cricket matters, cricket is a big sport and cricket has a marketing capability in this country,” said Sumantro Das, an all-rounder and junior at Boston University, who learned to play as a child in India.

With only a few weeks’ notice, the five teams did what many college students do this time of year: they packed their sunscreen and headed to Florida. Nearly 60 players drove or flew at their own expense to the lush cricket pitches of Central Broward Regional Park. They played Twenty20, a version of cricket in which many stuffy traditions are left behind and matches are completed in about three hours instead of up to five days.The only custom-built cricket stadium in the United States stands in this park, but securing the 5,000-seat facility was far too rich a luxury for the tournament’s shoestring budget. Competing on the park’s manicured fields was already an upgrade over the converted soccer fields and tennis courts the players were used to.

“I wanted them to see the stadium to know what they are playing for,” said Lloyd Jodah, the founder and president of American College Cricket. “That is where we want to be next year.”

The idea for the college tournament came to him last year as he campaigned to have cricket included in the Olympics. Standing on Wall Street with a cricket bat in one hand and petitions in the other, Jodah, 50, an immigrant from Guyana who works selling health club memberships, met Kalpesh Patel, a Jamaican business student from the University of Miami.

Once Jodah heard how difficult it was for college cricketers to find regular games, he began toying with the idea of a nationwide organization for collegiate clubs and founded American College Cricket. He made a group on Facebook as a way to reach out to players.

“We always had the desire to play, but there was no real framework for us to get involved,” Patel said. “So this idea gave us the push to get involved with the most competitive form of the game.”

Jodah and Nino DiLoreto, 62, a former soccer player from Abruzzi, Italy, spent many evenings tracking down college cricket players, and the group swelled to over 500 members

“We could have waited till next year to have the tournament and maybe taken more time to organize it,” Jodah said. “But it was important to actually do something this year, to have something to show for ourselves.”

Invitations went out and T-shirts were printed.

At the Boston University Cricket Club, expenses for the trip became the subject of six- and seven-hour meetings. After much deliberation, and financial help from the university, the roughly dozen members agreed that the opportunity to play for a long weekend was worth $400 each.

“Putting up that kind of money, especially when most of us have none, was a big decision for us,” Das said. “But it was significant because who else is doing anything for cricket in this country?”

Unlike a couple of the teams, which had snazzy uniforms, the University of South Florida contingent did not even have a team until a few weeks ago; they were just a few guys who played a regular pickup game. They settled on sweatpants and green T-shirts from the college bookstore. Not having names on their shirts caused a few awkward moments when a player would run to the borrowed picnic/scorer’s table with no idea of which of his new teammates was batting next.

But the players all knew the finer points of cricket etiquette, lilting cries of “Ball” or “Shot” into the wind after each pretty play — high cricket praise that requires no adjectives. Other cheers followed in at least a half-dozen different languages and dialects, but instructions on the field were usually in English. Miami players adopted an English-only rule after a few plays were botched in translation.

Nearly all of the players were born abroad. And even though the sport had a rich history in the United States until World War II, it is still widely seen here as an obscure game played exclusively by foreigners. Most who play it here are from countries that belonged to the British Commonwealth. The aim of this tournament, Jodah and DiLoreto explained, was to make cricket more accessible by growing its college identity, something that rubbed off on the Miami players as they belted Hurricanes chants

“We’re not playing on Saturdays for the fun of it anymore,” Patel said. “We’re playing for our school.”

After the championship match, in which South Florida couldn’t handle Montgomery’s firepower, the local fans — three Jamaican retirees sitting in the shade — nodded in approval, clapping politely.

Many of the players said the four-day adventure had spurred them to continue growing the sport when they get back to campus. And nine years after moving to Maryland from his native Pakistan, Montgomery’s captain, Adil Bhatti, said he hoped to take it one step further. He wants to try out for the United States national team, which plays in International Cricket Council tournaments.

“We live here and we play cricket here,” Bhatti said. “I would absolutely want to represent the U.S.”

Appointment Available to the Lauderhill Planning and Zoning Board

Due to the death of Sol Siegler, there is now an appointment open by the City Commission to the Lauderhill Planning and Zoning Board. The board not only reviews over all site plans, but also legislation that is recommended to the City Commission.

If you are interested in serving, submit your resume to the City Clerks Department. It is planned the Commission will discuss and may make the appointment at the next Commission Meeting of April 13.

For more information contact the City Clerk at 954-730-3010.

Join the White Tigers Boxing Club

The Lauderhill Police Athletic League runs the White Tigers Boxing Club for boys and girls 8-17. The cost is $45 and a copy of insurance, or a completion of a city insurance form is required. A birth certificate is also required, and equipment needs to be purchased by the parent. The program runs weekdays from 4:30 PM to 7 PM. An application must be completed which can be found at City Parks.

For more information contact Officer Quinones, 954-553-2600.

Free Smoke Detectors Are Available

The City of Lauderhill provides free battery operated smoke detectors to single family and duplex occupancies.

The Florida Fire Prevention Code requires single station 110 volt smoke detectors with a standby battery for multi-family occupancies. This requirement became code in 1989 and was enforced throughout the City. Therefore, the city does not provide those types of detectors. Residents who live in multi-family occupancies should already have the required detector.

For single family and duplexes you can request a smoke detector by going to http://www.lauderhill-fl.gov/, and click on to the Fire Department page smoke detector program link, or you can call the fire department headquarters at 954-730-2950. All requests for smoke detector assistance are responded to by our Fire Prevention Bureau.

I'm OK. Are You?

It was brought to my attention that several people have been worried for me. You see, last Thursday I had some surgery at Florida Medical Center to fix my nose so I can breath. The Doctor said it was pretty bad and needed to be done. The post surgery report confirmed he was absolutely correct. So to ease concerns, I was asked to put something on my web page to explain the situation, and avoid further worry.

As you would expect, I notified those that needed to know, so that matters could be attended to in my absence. They were also updated on my recovery. Vice Mayor Benson conducted a Commission Meeting. Unfortunately, I could not attend a funeral of a close resident of our city, Sol Siegler, who just passed away. Fortunately, while I was up for it, like now, I have been in limited phone contact, and quite a bit of Internet contact, with anyone who contacted me, including residents. Therefore, I still have been able to keep in touch and get a lot of work done.

At this point, for those that were concerned, I am fine and recovering quickly as expected. I will be returning back to work with a limited schedule Thursday and Friday. By next week, I will run a full schedule.

I appreciate those that contacted me to ask how I was doing, and for those that expressed concern for me. Thank you.

4th Annual Rally for the Cure - Breast Cancer Awareness Golf Tournament

On Saturday, April 4, 2009 at the Lauderhill Golf Course, the 4th Annual Rally for the Cure - Breast Cancer Awareness Golf Tournament will be held. The course is at 4141 NW 16th Street, and the tournament will start at 9 AM. The donation is $75.00 to play. Please wear PINK.

Cheetah Lauderhill Track and Field Club Registration

Until March 31, Monday to Friday, from 8 AM to 9 PM, youth can register for the Cheetah Lauderhill Track and Field Club. Practice has already started. Fee is $50 by money order or credit/debit cards. Copy of Birth Certificate and Insurance is also required.

For more information contact 954-791-1035 or Coach Beverly at 954-572-9752. Also, you can visit West Ken Lark Park for more information.

School's Out

On March 27, 2009, the City of Lauderhill will run its "School's Out" program. If your student is out of school, and needs a place to go, the City is offering a trip to the Miami Science Museum Tour and Lunch from 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM. The pick up is at West Ken Lark Park and at Veterans Park. Cost is $18 for residents and $25 for non-residents.

Space is limited. First come. First Serve. Get more information at the park.

Notes of the CRA and Regular Commission Meeting of March 9

On March 9, the City Commission met as the CRA board and also held a Regular Commission Meeting:

The following are some points of interest from those meetings:

CRA MEETING:

1) NEILSON CLARITAS CIVIC IQ - Discussion on hiring this company to analyzes businesses that would fit best into Lauderhill, and we could recruit. Specifically targeted to retail. The program is to work with a level of property landlords to help them in their marketing and targeting. Estimated cost of $19095.

2) CDBG BUSINESS GRANT PROGRAM Proposed creating a new small business startup assistance plan similar to first-time homebuyers programs. Could be allocated up to $50,000 from CDBG funds. There would be requirements to qualify for the grants. Discussion was to expand it to existing businesses, and possibly targeting particular business objective, i.e., creating jobs, and doing refunding specific targets after the business has completed the goal or objective.

3) NEW MARKETS TAX CREDIT APPLICATION - Lauderhill is applying for it again this year. Though we scored well, it was considered too narrow, and we will be expanding our application in conjunction with other cities. There is $5 Billion assigned, with a new $1.5 Billion available. In 2010 it is increased to $7 Billion. Our application will be for $100 Million of credits.

4) DIRECTOR’S REPORT

A) SISTER CITIES - Working on trips to have representatives of our Sister Cities to come to Lauderhill for our 50th Anniversary celebration.

b) KNIGHT ARTS GRANTS - 8 applications submitted.


REGULAR COMMISSION MEETING:

ORDINANCES ----- FIRST READING:

1. Approved ORDINANCE NO. 09O-03-114: CHANGING THE ZONING DISTRICT MAP FROM NEIGHBORHOOD COMMERCIAL (CN) TO RESIDENTIAL SINGLE-FAMILY AT FIVE DWELLING UNITS PER GROSS ACRE (RS-5) ZONING DISTRICT AND ALLOCATING 0.802+ NET ACRES/2.09+ GROSS ACRES OF COMMERCIAL TO RESIDENTIAL FLEXIBILITY ACREAGE FOR PROPERTY LEGALLY DESCRIBED AS LOTS 15, 16, 17 AND 18, BLOCK 1, SUNSHINE VILLAS SECOND ADDITION.

2. Approved ORDINANCE NO. 09O-03-115: AMENDING THE LAND DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS ADDRESSING BANQUET HALLS; ADDING THE TERM AND DEFINITION FOR BANQUET HALL; AMENDING SCHEDULE B, PERMITTED AND SPECIAL EXCEPTION USES, TO ALLOW WITHIN THE GENERAL COMMERCIAL (CG) AND COMMERCIAL WAREHOUSE (CW) ZONING DISTRICTS A BANQUET HALL AS A SPECIAL EXCEPTION USE.

3. Approved on a 3 to 2 vote ORDINANCE NO. 09O-03-116: AMENDING THE LAND DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS, SCHEDULE I, SIGN REQUIREMENTS, AMENDING PARAGRAPH C OF SUBSECTION 15.2 TO MODIFY THE FREQUENCY THAT THE DISPLAY ON A DYNAMIC DISPLAY SIGN MAY CHANGE OR MOVE. Mayor Kaplan and Commission Berger voting against because they felt that reducing the changes in display from 1 minute to every 8 seconds was too often and a danger to drivers.

4. Approved ORDINANCE NO. 09O-03-117: AMENDING THE LAND DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS BY ADDING “SEPARATION STANDARD OR REQUIREMENT OR DISTANCE REQUIREMENT" REPEALING HOW THE DISTANCE BETWEEN ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE USES IS MEASURED AND MAKING OTHER CHANGES; AMENDING PARAGRAPH B., AND REPEALING HOW THE DISTANCE BETWEEN ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE USES AND SCHOOLS IS MEASURED AND MAKING OTHER CHANGES.


ORDINANCES --- SECOND READING:

5. Approved ORDINANCE NO. 09O-02-112: TO REMOVE REFERENCES TO DEPUTY VICE MAYOR IN ACCORDANCE WITH ORDINANCE NO. 08O-06-123 AND THE PASSAGE OF THE CORRESPONDING REFERENDUM BY VOTE OF THE ELECTORS ON NOVEMBER 4, 2008

6. Approved ORDINANCE NO. 09O-02-113: CREATING A NEW SECTION 2-169, PRESIDING OFFICER AND ALTERNATE PRESIDING OFFICER


RESOLUTIONS
COMMISSION

7. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-03-54: APPROVING THE RECOMMENDATION OF THE EDUCATIONAL ADVISORY BOARD TO DISBURSE FUNDS IN THE AMOUNT OF $1,000.00 TO THE LAUDERHILL MIDDLE SCHOOL – COLLEGE BOUND CLUB TO HELP DEFER THE COSTS OF AN END OF THE YEAR COLLEGE TOUR TO MAJOR COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES IN THE STATE OF FLORIDA.

8. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-03-55: APPROVING THE RECOMMENDATION OF THE EDUCATIONAL ADVISORY BOARD TO DISBURSE FUNDS IN THE AMOUNT OF $2,500.00 TO THE LEARNING FOR SUCCESS, INC. “KIDS AND THE POWER OF WORK” (KAPOW) PROGRAM.

9. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-03-56: A RESOLUTION APPROVING THE RECOMMENDATION OF THE EDUCATIONAL ADVISORY BOARD TO DISBURSE FUNDS IN THE AMOUNT OF $2,500.00 TO THE “FAMILY LITERACY AND LIFE SKILLS PROGRAM."


QUASI-JUDICIAL MATTERS:

QUASI-JUDICIAL MATTERS, FIRST READING:

10. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-03-60: APPROVING THE SPECIAL EXCEPTION USE DEVELOPMENT ORDER OF THE OWNER, THE CHABAD OF GREATER FORT LAUDERDALE, INC., SUBJECT TO CONDITIONS, TO ALLOW IN THE COMMUNITY FACILITY (CF) ZONING DISTRICT A PRESCHOOL ON AN APPROXIMATE ± 5.561 GROSS ACRE SITE DESCRIBED AS PARCEL “A”, ‘INVERRARY COMMERCIAL CENTER,’ MORE SPECIFICALLY DESCRIBED AS THE SOUTHWEST CORNER OF INVERRARY BOULEVARD AND N.W. 44TH STREET, LAUDERHILL, FLORIDA MORE COMMONLY KNOWN AS THE SYNAGOGUE OF INVERRARY CHABAD.


NEW BUSINESS

A. SCHEDULE COMMUNITY BUDGET WORKSHOP - April 15, 2009 starting at 6:30 PM

B. SCHEDULE DEPARTMENTAL/COMMISSION BUDGET WORKSHOP July 14, 2009 starting at 10 AM, and continuing onto July 15 at 10 AM if needed.

The Federal Stimulus Bill and Lauderhill

A few weeks ago the President signed a new Federal Stimulus Bill (ARRA), providing significant funding to a variety of government, public and private programs. The City of Lauderhill, being a direct entitlement city, is a recipient of these funds. One of the requirements of the bill is to, as quickly as possible, stimulate the economy by getting the funding out, and spending it quickly.

The bill provides a variety of possible sources of funds, and a very limited description on how the funds are to be spent from each category. This is posing a challenge to governments, including Lauderhill. However, with the incredible coordination of city staff, we are working to obtain every dollar we are entitled to, and to do this as quickly as the federal government requires.

The city is not qualified for every source, and beyond a few areas, it is very unclear as to whether we will receive funding. To date, we have sorted out some of it. What we know right now is that we are going to receive:

Byrne JAG Law Enforcement Grant $264, 217
CDBG $219,266

While we haven't been told exactly how much, we are expecting to receive funds through the MPO to build 9 Bus Shelters around the city. We also expect to get an unknown amount of funding for an Energy Block Grant program. Plans on Energy Grant are ongoing, even though we do not know how much they may be, when they must be spent by, and what are the guidelines for spending it. However, given the time constraints, we want to be prepared to move as quickly as possible

Competitive grants that we are applying for are to build a new Fire Station on 31st Ave., possibly additional funds from the Energy Block Grant and funds to build our Reverse Osmosis Water Plant. At this time it is too difficult to project much more, but as matters develop more announcements will be made.

There is also a grant program for weatherization available directly to homeowners. Little information is available on this program, except it will be run through the State. There are certain limitations on income levels to qualify.

Notes of Regular and Special Commission Meeting of Februrary 23

On February 23, the City Commission held two meetings, and the following are notes of interest from each meeting:


SPECIAL COMMISSION MEETING:

Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-02-38: DECLARING THE INTENT TO USE THE UNIFORM METHOD FOR COLLECTING NON-AD VALOREM SPECIAL ASSESSMENTS LEVIED WITHIN THE DESIGNATED LOCAL GOVERNMENT SAFE NEIGHBORHOOD IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT AREA LOCATED WITHIN THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL FOR THE FEES ASSOCIATED WITH THE IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT; PROVIDING FOR ANNUAL BILLING FOR SUCH FEES; STATING A NEED FOR SUCH LEVY TO COVER THE ACTUAL COSTS ASSOCIATED WITH THE IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT. After holding several meetings in the district south of 19th Street and east of 55th Street, including a favorable Ballot result, this new district is intended to be created. It provides for improvements, such as a perimeter wall/fence around the district, reconfiguration of the intersection of 18th Street and NW 55th Ave to accommodate a manned security gate and gatehouse, fund security measures (such as a high resolution security cameras and decorative security lighting), upgrade neighborhood landscaping, improve parking areas and street maintenance, demolish units that have been condemned due to severe code violations, support a neighborhood policing unit to help improve stability and security, assisting landlords with lease language, provide support in dealing with trespassers, and identifying vacant apartments or those occupied illegally. If the District is credited, a uniform method of collecting non-ad valorem special assessments to collect Safe Neighborhood Improvement District Fees annually will be set. Since this is a Resolution, a subsequent Ordinance is required and the fees must be established.


REGULAR COMMISSION MEETING:

ORDINANCES --- FIRST READING:

1. Approved ORDINANCE NO. 09O-02-112: TO REMOVE REFERENCES TO DEPUTY VICE MAYOR IN ACCORDANCE WITH ORDINANCE NO. 08O-06-123 AND THE PASSAGE OF THE CORRESPONDING REFERENDUM BY VOTE OF THE ELECTORS ON NOVEMBER 4, 2008

2. Approved ORDINANCE NO. 09-02-113: PROVIDING FOR A PRESIDING OFFICER AND ALTERNATE PRESIDING OFFICER IN THE ABSENCE OF THE MAYOR AND VICE MAYOR SOLELY TO CONDUCT COMMISSION MEETING WHEN A QUORUM STILL EXISTS.

ORDINANCES --- SECOND READING:

3. Approved ORDINANCE NO. 09O-02-106: APPROVING THE SUBMITTAL TO THE FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY AFFAIRS AND OTHER REQUIRED REVIEW AGENCIES FOR COMPLIANCE REVIEW OF THE ANNUAL UPDATE TO THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN’S CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS ELEMENT AND ASSOCIATED AMENDMENTS TO THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN’S INFRASTRUCTURE, RECREATION AND OPEN SPACE AND TRAFFIC CIRCULATION ELEMENTS.

4. Approved ORDINANCE NO. 09O-02-108: AMENDING THE LAND DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS Article iii., zoning districts, part 5.0., special regulations for specific land use classifications, section 5.4., Amusement room, game room or recreation center, by adding paragraph 5.4.3.D., restaurant and allowing playground area and equipment as an accessory or secondary use to a restaurant.

5. Approved ORDINANCE NO. 09O-02-109: Amending Section 3.1, Variances, to prohibit a variance as a remedy for providing relief from any separation standard except as otherwise provided herein.

6. Approved ORDINANCE NO. 09O-02-110: Amending Procedures for Obtaining Relief from the Land Development Regulations; repealing Section 3.2, waivers, in its entirety.

7. Approved ORDINANCE NO. 09O-02-111: AMENDING THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL CONFIDENTIAL AND MANAGERIAL EMPLOYEE DEFINED BENEFIT PLAN; AMENDING SECTION 2-88.2 OF THE CITY CODE TO CHANGE THE DEFINITION OF VESTING FOR NEW HIRES TO TEN YEARS; AMENDING SECTION 2-88.6 OF THE CITY CODE TO CHANGE RETIREMENT ELIGIBILITY TO AGE 55 WITH TEN YEARS OF SERVICE, AND CHANGING THE RETIREMENT MULTIPLIER TO THREE PERCENT; AMENDING SECTION 2-88.7 OF THE CITY CODE TO CHANGE THE VESTING REQUIREMENT TO TEN YEARS OF SERVICE; AND AMENDING SECTION 2-88.15OF THE CITY CODE TO CHANGE THE MANNER IN WHICH DROP ACCOUNTS ARE CREDITED WITH INTEREST FOR NEW HIRES.


RESOLUTIONS

BUILDING/CODE ENFORCEMENT

8. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-02-40: APPROVING THE REMETERING AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL AND STEVEN WELLS TO ALLOW SUBMETERS AT THE TRIPLEX LOCATED AT 2020, 2024, 2028 N.W. 58TH TERRACE, LAUDERHILL, FL.


D.E.E.S.

9. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-02-41: APPROVING FUNDS IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $10,000.00 TO BE UTILIZED BY THE LAUDERHILL GARDEN CLUB FOR VARIOUS LANDSCAPING PROJECTS AT SEVERAL FACILITIES THROUGHOUT THE CITY; PROVIDING FOR PAYMENT FROM BUDGET CODE NUMBER 001-247-116.


FINANCE

10. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-02-42: AMENDING THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL’S CURRENT INVESTMENT POLICY TO EXPAND ITS ABILITY TO INVEST IN REAL ESTATE FROM $60,000.00 TO $4,000,000.


POLICE

11. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-02-43: APPROVING THE DONATION OF $10,000.00 FROM THE FEDERAL FORFEITURE FUND TO THE SPORTS ADVANCING KIDS EDUCATION (S.A.K.E.) PROGRAM; PROVIDING FOR PAYMENT FROM BUDGET CODE NUMBER 110-683-9936.

12. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-02-44: APPROVING THE EXPENDITURE OF FEDERAL FORFEITURE FUNDS IN THE AMOUNT OF $3,500.00 FOR THE PURCHASE OF TWENTY-TWO (22) EZ LAPTOP CAR MOUNTS FROM THE SOLE SUPPLIER, AA PRODUCTS, INC.; PROVIDING FOR PAYMENT FROM BUDGET CODE NUMBER 110-683-9936.

13. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-02-45: APPROVING THE EXPENDITURE OF FEDERAL FORFEITURE FUNDS IN THE AMOUNT OF $12,500.00 FOR THE PURCHASE OF A DUAL PURPOSE TITLED K-9 DOG FROM METRO-DADE K-9 SERVICES; PROVIDING FOR PAYMENT FROM BUDGET CODE NUMBER 110-683-9936.

14. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-02-46: APPROVING THE EXPENDITURE OF FEDERAL FORFEITURE FUNDS IN THE AMOUNT OF $4,500.00 FOR THE PURCHASE OF AN E/Z RIDER HOME KENNEL AND K-9 WORK CAR CARRIER FROM THE SOLE SUPPLIER, AMERICAN ALUMINUM ACCESSORIES, INC.; PROVIDING FOR PAYMENT FROM BUDGET CODE NUMBER 110-683-9936.

15. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-02-47: APPROVING THE EXPENDITURE OF FEDERAL FORFEITURE FUNDS IN THE AMOUNT OF $1,649.00 FOR THE PURCHASE OF THE HOT N POP PRO K-9 EMERGENCY ALERT SYSTEM FROM THE SOLE SUPPLIER, ACEK9.COM/RADIOTRONICS; PROVIDING FOR PAYMENT FROM BUDGET CODE NUMBER 110-683-9936.

Oral Rabies Vaccination to be Distributed

Due to an increasing concern over rabies, Broward County will be distributing the Oral Rabies Vaccine throughout the county. The three methods to be used will be by hand on the ground, by helicopter and by boat for certain waterways. Hand baiting will be during the week of March 9 through March 13. By Helicopter, in more open, unpopulated or rural areas (including natural areas, regional parks and state parks), will start about 2 week thereafter.

A hot line is available for residents to call if they have any questions or concerns. The number is 954-831-4000.

Crime Decreased in Lauderhill 7.9% for 2008

The following statistical data was sent to the State of Florida to be included in the FBI's Uniform Crime Report which will be released in late March. Overall, there was a 7.9% decrease in crime for the year 2008.

Total Offenses 2007: 3,451
Total Offenses 2008: 3,175

Crime------2007-----2008
Homicide----5----------7
Rape -------26---------24
Robbery---222--------218
Assault----430--------377
Burglary --793--------815
Theft-----1664-------1471
MV theft--311---------263

Jazz Picnic in the Park Performs this Sunday

This Sunday, March 8, from 10 AM to 2 PM, the last of this seasons Jazz Picnic in the Park concerts presented by Florida Medical Center will be held. The performer is Bob Folse, and his music can be heard at www.bobfolse.com.

Bring your blankets, chairs, picnic baskets, and shade umbrellas. The event will be at the Lieberman Botanical Gardens, 3801 Inverrary Blvd., next to the Inverrary Vacation Resort.

For more information: http://www.lauderhill-fl.gov/docs/jazz.pdf.

Additional good news is that not only is Florida Medical Center agreeing to continue sponsorship of the Jazz Picnic in the Park series, they have agreed to increase it from 3 to 5 concerts (the second Sunday of November, 2009 thru March, 2010), and also to add a mini-night series to be called Jazz Under the Stars (the last Saturday of May and June, 2009, from 6:30 PM to 9:30 PM).

Dolphins Mock 2009 NFL Draft

Since everyone else is debating the next great sports question, "Who will the Dolphins Draft?" I thought I would chime in on the subject.

The Dolphins have the 25th pick in the 1st round, 44th and 56th picks in the 2nd round, 87th pick in the 3rd round, 121st Pick in the 4th round, and 153rd pick in the 5th round. There are more picks beyond the 5th round, but that is where you pick up some players that whatever is best that is left on the board, the "late rounds." Essentially its guessing by that time.

Where are the Dolphins critical needs for now, near future and 3 to 4 years down the line?

On the Defense:

Since the Dolphins have signed their Safeties, that need will be moved to the 3 to 4 years down the line. However, they still may pick up someone in the 3rd to 5th round. Cornerbacks are an immediate need now, and I think the Dolphins will pick up a CB in the first 3 rounds, plus possibly another in a late round.

Both Inside and Outside Linebackers are a near future need, so this is a definite in the first few rounds. Because it takes a few years to learn the position Defensive Lineman are near future, though the Nose Tackle could be now (1st or 2nd round).

On the Offensive:

Wide Receiver is both now and near future. Figure drafting one in the first 3 rounds (probably not the 1st round). The Dolphins have stabilized their Offensive Line with resignings and Free Agents, so, with the exception of the Center, they are a bit later in need. I figure a Center to be in round 3 to 5 (mostly likely not the 3rd).

At Quarterback, only a 3rd stringer is needed (and I am assuming that Beck will somehow be gone). Unless they find a QB like Pat White that may be also a WR, don't expect to see one picked until late in the draft. Running Back, Tight Ends aren't that great a need, but you never know. Considering the higher needs of the draft, look more towards the 5th and later rounds.

Kicker and Punters are probably going to be free agents since we don't have that many draft picks.

So what do I see for the first couple of picks. At the 25th selection there should be some potentially excellent talent. I believe it will be between Aaron Maybin-DE/OLB, Brian Cushing-OLB, Vontae Davie-CB, Peria Jerry-DT, DJ Moore-CB, Clay Matthews-OLB, James Laurinaitis-ILB, and Larry English-DE/OLB,. Notice they all play defense. Why? Cause we have rebuilt our offensive line, and for the value, there are some pretty good Wide Receivers that should be there in the next round or two. It is also possible they may trade this pick for another low 2nd round pick and a late 3rd or early 4th round pick.

My guess, if they don't trade the pick, is whoever is the left by the 25th pick in the order I listed is it. Now, if any of these players are left by our 1st pick in the second round, then I would go for them there. However, by the 44th pick, they all should be gone. If we do not pick up Peria Jerry-DT, then the 44th pick should be Ron Brace-DT as a need now pick. If they are not available, then Clint Sintim-OLB would be my selection if we have not already picked a OLB. Sean Smith-CB would be next if we hadn't already picked a CB.

The second pick in the second round is where I would look to my first possible Wide Receiver, Kenny Britt or Brian Robiskie, in that order. If they are not available, and we hadn't got a DT by this time, then Terrance Taylor would be my choice. However, Terrance could also be available at our pick in the 3rd round, so I might wait. The next value Wide Receiver is Juaquin Iglesias and he could be moved up to this point if the need is that great.

By the 3rd round it gets to be very difficult to project. Mainly it depends upon what we and others have already drafted. At that point, we look for the greatest need for what we haven't selected. Still on the board could be Victor Harris-FS/CB, William Moore-SS, Juaquin Iglesias-WR, Connor Barwin-DE/OLB, Mike Mickens-CB, Captain Munnerlyn-CB, and Fili Moala-DE/DT. I would put them in this order.

In the 4th and 5th round, the order would be Sammie Lee Hill-NT, Chris Baker-NT, Jonathan Luigs-C, Nic Harris-SS, Morgan Trent-CB, Daniel Holtzclaw-ILB, and Vance Walker-DE/DT for positions we haven't yet taken, or need some backup plans.

As we get closer, I probably will update my list. However, this is a start and I am sure others have their own opinions.

What the Federal Stimulus Bill Means to Lauderhill

When President Obama signed the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, it provide funding for a variety of public projects. Monies, through several provisions, will eventually filter to the City of Lauderhill. They will be spent on specific categories as directed by Federal Law.

One of the sources of funding was through the Broward MPO. $41,000,000 was designated for transportation projects in Broward. The Broward MPO was required, in only a few days, to decide how to spend this money under very specific guidelines. The result was that $37,000,000 is allocated to a Dixie Highway flyover. The remaining $4,000,000 will be granted to Bus Shelters. Lauderhill has 5 such qualifying shelters. An additional $4,000,000 was also made available for traffic enhancement projects, which Lauderhill has until April 1 to apply for.

The problem the Broward MPO had was that if they designated a project which is rejected by the State, then those funds would be forfeited, and cannot be assigned elsewhere. So whatever project the MPO selected, they had to be certain that it would be approved.

Another part of the bill was to increase funding of CDBG. In the case of Lauderhill, on top of the approximately $800,000 we are expected to get, we will get an extra one time $220,000. Other potential source of funds which Lauderhill could receive is the Energy Conservation Block Grant, Firehouse construction funds, and police funding.

Since the law is so fluid, it will take a month or two to figure out what funds will be available. Also, it is expected that those funds are to be spent by the end of 2009. At such time that further funding is announced, this article will be updated.

The Write Side Poets Cafe

Every Friday, the Write Side Poets Cafe is featuring "Chicken & Waffle" with live jazz. The Meta4 Jazz Ensemble and the poetry of international poet, Rebecca "Butterfly" Vaughn will be present, starting at 7 PM. Cover is $7.00. It is located at 5464 NW 19th Street, Lauderhill, and is in the Lauderhill Arts Incubator Program.

For more information: http://www.browardpalmbeach.com/events/chicken-and-waffles-night-680696/

Notes of CRA and Commission Meeting of February 9, 2009

On February 9, the City Commission met and the following items of interest were discussed:

CRA MEETING:

1) CULTURAL CENTER AND GOSPEL COMPLEX - possibility for combining facility uses is not there. However, they may utilize the facilities. We looked at Calvary Chapel at construction ideas. They were able to build a similar facility at a price we have budgeted.

2) ENTERPRISE ZONE UPDATE - has created 9 new business, 25 new jobs, and 16 applications. Six more applications are forthcoming. We will be looking to expanding the zone, and a city resolution will be required. A small business seminar will be conducted to educate more potential businesses about what the Enterprise Zone will do for them.

3) SISTER CITIES EVENTS - Feb. 27 at Juicy Jerk is next Sister City meeting. Discussion about art and cultural exchanges between our sister cities. May include sporting events.

4) DIRECTOR’S REPORT

A) BUS TRANSFER STATION - at the Lauderhill Mall. Looking to relocate it along State Road 7 along the Mall. Light Rail facilities were discussed, but the problem came down to a funding problem again.

B) ARTS INCUBATOR - new tenants have moved in. Artist studio is basically full. Programing is starting, but not well known. Getting close to pulling this together.


REGULAR COMMISSION MEETING:

ORDINANCES -- FIRST READING

1. Approved ORDINANCE NO. 09O-02-106: APPROVING THE SUBMITTAL TO THE FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY AFFAIRS AND OTHER REQUIRED REVIEW AGENCIES FOR COMPLIANCE REVIEW OF THE ANNUAL UPDATE TO THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN’S CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS ELEMENT AND ASSOCIATED AMENDMENTS TO THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN’S INFRASTRUCTURE, RECREATION AND OPEN SPACE AND TRAFFIC CIRCULATION ELEMENTS.

2. Rejected 4 to 1 ORDINANCE NO. 09O-02-107: AMENDING THE LAND DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS special regulations for specific land use classifications, House of religious worship, by allowing within the Commercial Warehouse (CW) zoning district a temporary change from the separation standards and by making editorial changes.(REQUESTED BY Commissioner Howard Berger). Commissioner Berger brought this forward at the request of the property owner to allow for economic relief in the type of use of the property available for rental. The Planning & Zoning Board voted 3-2 to reject this change. The Commission accepted the recommendations of the Planning & Zoning Board, along with the City Managers. Individually several Commissioners gave additional reasons as well. Commissioner Berger was the only vote in favor.

3. Approved ORDINANCE NO. 09O-02-108: AMENDING THE LAND DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS for specific land use classifications, section 5.4., Amusement room, game room or recreation center, by adding paragraph 5.4.3.D., restaurant and allowing playground area and equipment as an accessory or secondary use to a restaurant.

4. Approved ORDINANCE NO. 09O-02-109: AMENDING THE LAND DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS, Procedures for Obtaining Relief from the Land Development Regulations; amending Section 3.1, Variances, to prohibit a variance as a remedy for providing relief from any separation standard except as otherwise provided herein.

5. Approved ORDINANCE NO. 09O-02-110: AMENDING THE LAND DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS, Procedures for Obtaining Relief from the Land Development Regulations; repealing Section 3.2, waivers, in its entirety.


ORDINANCES -- SECOND READING:

6. Approved ORDINANCE NO. 09O-01-103: PROHIBITING THE HANGING OF CLOTHES, SHEETS OR GARMENTS SUCH THAT THEY ARE VISIBLE FROM THE ROAD OR STREET; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE OF JUNE 9, 2009 .

7. Approved ORDINANCE NO. 09O-01-104: APPROVING A BUDGET ADJUSTMENT TO REFLECT ANTICIPATED DECREASES IN BUDGETED REVENUE AND EXPENDITURES IN THE AMOUNT OF $1,452,147.00 DUE TO ONGOING ECONOMIC .

8. Approved ORDINANCE NO. 09O-01-105: APPROVING THE SUBMITTAL TO THE FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY AFFAIRS AND OTHER REQUIRED REVIEW AGENCIES FOR COMPLIANCE REVIEW OF THE 2008 TEN-YEAR WATER SUPPLY FACILITIES WORK PLAN AND ASSOCIATED AMENDMENTS TO THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN’S FUTURE LAND USE, CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS, INTERGOVERNMENTAL COORDINATION, INFRASTRUCTURE, AND CONSERVATION ELEMENTS.


RESOLUTIONS

COMMISSION

9. Approved 4 to 1 RESOLUTION NO. 09R-02-32: SUPPORTING THE GENERAL BILL TO BE FILED IN THE 2009 LEGISLATIVE SESSION WHICH WOULD GIVE CITIES, COUNTIES AND SPECIAL DISTRICTS THE OPTION TO PLACE STATUTORILY REQUIRED LEGAL ADVERTISING AND NOTICES ON THEIR RESPECTIVE WEBSITES IN LIEU OF NEWSPAPER AND GENERAL CIRCULATION; RECOGNIZING A SAVINGS TO TAX PAYERS BY CUTTING ADVERTISING COSTS(REQUESTED BY MAYOR RICHARD J. KAPLAN). Commissioner Berger voted against.

10. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-02-39: APPROVING THE IMPLEMENTATION OF A GREEN-ALTERNATIVE WORK WEEK PILOT PROGRAM WHEREBY CERTAIN CITY DEPARTMENTS SCHEDULES WOULD CHANGE TO A 10 HOUR WORK DAY, FOUR DAYS PER WEEK COMMENCING MONDAY, MARCH 2, 2009 FOR A SIX MONTH TRIAL PERIOD. RECOGNIZING THE OVERALL COSTS SAVING MEASURES TO THE CITY BY IMPLEMENTING THIS PILOT PROGRAM.

POLICE

11. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-02-33: APPROVING THE EXPENDITURE FROM THE ABANDONED PROPERTY ACCOUNT IN THE AMOUNT OF $7,020.00 TO GLOBAL SERVICES TO CLEAN ALL FLOORS IN THE POLICE BUILDING TWICE A YEAR.

12. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-02-34: APPROVING THE EXPENDITURE OF FUNDS FROM THE POLICE DEPARTMENT FEDERAL FORFEITURE FUND IN THE TOTAL AMOUNT OF $86,112.00 TO DUVAL FORD FOR THE PURCHASE OF THREE (3) FORD ESCAPE HYBRID VEHICLES BASED UPON THE FLORIDA SHERIFF’S ASSOCIATION; FLORIDA ASSOCIATION OF COUNTIES STATE BID.

13. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-02-35: APPROVING THE EXPENDITURE OF FUNDS FROM THE GENERAL OPERATING BUDGET IN THE TOTAL AMOUNT OF $47,782.17 TO VISION AIR, INC. TO FUND THREE (3) QUARTERLY MAINTENANCE FEES FOR THE POLICE DEPARTMENT RECORDS MANAGEMENT SYSTEM.

14. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-02-36: APPROVING THE EXPENDITURE OF FUNDS FROM THE POLICE DEPARTMENT FEDERAL FORFEITURE FUND IN THE TOTAL AMOUNT OF $4,853.00 FOR THE PURCHASE OF FORTY (40) TACTICAL HELMETS AND REPLACEMENT SUPPLIES FROM THE LOW QUOTE, GL DISTRIBUTORS, INC.

15. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-02-37: APPROVING THE EXPENDITURE OF FUNDS FROM THE POLICE DEPARTMENT FEDERAL FORFEITURE FUND IN THE AMOUNT OF $2,500.00 TO PURCHASE SUPPLIES AND EQUIPMENT FOR USE IN THE WINDERMERE PROJECT.

In My Opinion: A Statewide Mortgage Foreclosure Registry Could Help Stop the Loss in Property Values

In this months edition of the Florida League of Cities "Quality Cities" Magazine, Mayor Richard Kaplan wrote an article concerning a State Wide Registry. This article discussed the issues related to problems both lenders and local governments are facing because of the Foreclosure Crisis.

The article goes on to explain a Bill submitted by State Representative Ari Porth and State Senator Chris Smith, to deal with this situation. The Bills numbers are HB 119 and SB 874. The Bill was actually written by Mayor Kaplan, incorporating information learned through his work with the US Conference of Mayors, in conjunction with representatives of the Mortgage Bankers Association.

To see the article: http://www.lauderhill-fl.gov/docs/FORECLOSURE%20ARTICLE.pdf

City Annual Retreat Discusses Cutbacks

Annually, the Lauderhill City Commission meets to discuss upcoming issues that they expect to face within the next year. Finances being the hot topic in government these days, the concerns about city finances dominated the discussion.

Even though the city has already voted to reduce their overall budget to meet projected revenues, the property appraiser has notified Lauderhill that they can expect even lower revenues in the future. To combat this problem, and address where we have short falls in budgeted items, the City Manager proposed several ways to reduce spending.

While the city has sent out the first of this years newsletter, the funding for future newsletters has been cut. To reduce costs it was proposed that after the next newsletter, to eliminate future distributions. A few copies will still be printed, but no longer mailed. Those will be left in key places around the city.

Instead, the newsletter will be electronically sent to e-mail addresses the city possesses, and will be available on its website. The cost savings will be about $120,000/year. It was suggested that maybe a very simple one page newsletter may be created and included in the water bill. That will be explored.

Then the City Manager discussed a pilot program to reduce the city work week to 4 days. However, in the 4 day weeks, employees will have extended 10 hour days. That creates an advantage in that City Hall will be open later in the evening for those that work during the day.

It is planned that Friday, being the slowest day of the week, would have City Hall closed. This does not mean the city will be closed. All shift personnel will still continue as present. This includes fire/EMS, police, utilities, recreational programs and parks. What will be closed is administrative offices, commission offices, planning and business offices.

Due to advances in electronics and computers, many alternatives ways to conduct business with the city will occur, creating more e-business to reduce costs. While the Business Center will be closed, permitting and inspections could still be ordered if planned web site improvements are instituted. If water bills need to be paid, they can already be paid through the city web site. The Mayor and Commissioners will still be available, as they always have, through whatever normal methods that have been used in the past. These changes may be instituted as soon as March 1.

A thorough review of city special events was made. At this point, unless the event is funded through sponsorship, it is expected to be cut. Unite-a-Fest, Flavor-a-Fest, BlazzFest, HispanicFest are all gone. Veterans Day will continue to be paid by the city, and the city has already funded the 50th Anniversary Celebration. The following events are expected to funded by sponsors to allow them to continue: MLK Day, July 4, Jazz Picnic In The Park (with a possible expansion to include Jazz Picnic Under The Stars), Community Health Fair, and the Saturday Night Cricket/Soccer/Netball Winter Games (which also is funded partially through the recreation department and not as a special event).

Special projects, such as the Florida Caribbean Games, and the Lauderhill Cultural Arts/Library facility, are being developed with strong fund raising components as part of their core requirements. Several fund raising ideas were discussed. One was to solicit a tax deductible $1000/person donation, and in return a permanent recognition plaque will be placed in the Cultural Arts Facility. Naming rights were also discussed for larger contributions.

A lengthy discussion was also on the progress of the City Master Plan, which is working to create a roadmap of the future of Lauderhill. By creating this plan, it would expect to help reduce costs by giving better directions to avoid wasting funds on projects not within the plan.

Part of this planning process will include green initiatives which serve as a cost cutting measure in operational costs. As an example of how green initiatives reduce operational costs, the new city hall under construction, which will be certified LEED Silver, is expected to cost at least $50,000/year less than it otherwise would have. Once the building is complete, the operational costs will be measured to verify the savings. Another is by use of hybrid cars. Already the first hybrid has been delivered and it is being noted that gas consumption for this driver has gone from about 10-12 miles/gallon to 25. Several other hybrids should be delivered soon. The green initiatives are being evaluated through an independent study.

What is important what the city is working through is to see how it can reduce expenditures, not only in the short term, but long term as well. Yet, doing everything it can to maintain a quality of life that we are seeking, at a cost we can afford.

Work on Pine Island Road to Begin Shortly

The County's contractor will start construction along Pine Island soon. Construction will start from Oakland Park Blvd. heading North. Significant congestion may be expected at all City's intersection once they reach 44th Street. The Contractor is supposed to notify the city with the exact dates they will start in our area.

Available Appointments to County Boards

Commissioner Ilene Lieberman is announcing the availability of positions on several county boards. Those openings are on the Affordable Housing Advisory Committee, Broward Cultural Council, Marine Advisory Committee and the Unsafe Structures Minimum Housing Board. Preference would be for someone who lives in County Commission District 1, which includes the north half of Lauderhill (north of Oakland Park Blvd.).

If anyone would like to serve on one of these Boards, then please contact Commissioner Lieberman's office, at 954-357-7001. For more information, and an update of vacancies: http://www.broward.org/ilene/advisory_board_vacancies.htm

Notes of Commission Meeting of January 26

On Monday, January 26, the City Commission held a Regular Commission Meeting. The following are matters of interest:


ORDINANCES - FIRST READING:

1. Approved ORDINANCE NO. 09O-01-103: PROHIBITING THE HANGING OF CLOTHES, SHEETS OR GARMENTS SUCH THAT THEY ARE VISIBLE FROM THE ROAD OR STREET; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE (REQUESTED BY COMMISSIONER HOWARD BERGER).

2. Approved ORDINANCE NO. 09O-01-104: APPROVING A BUDGET ADJUSTMENT TO REFLECT ANTICIPATED DECREASES IN BUDGETED REVENUE AND EXPENDITURES IN THE AMOUNT OF $1,452,147.00 DUE TO ONGOING ECONOMIC HARDSHIP.

3. Approved ORDINANCE NO. 09O-01-105: APPROVING THE SUBMITTAL TO THE FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY AFFAIRS AND OTHER REQUIRED REVIEW AGENCIES FOR COMPLIANCE REVIEW OF THE 2008 TEN-YEAR WATER SUPPLY FACILITIES WORK PLAN AND ASSOCIATED AMENDMENTS TO THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN’S FUTURE LAND USE, CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS, INTERGOVERNMENTAL COORDINATION, INFRASTRUCTURE, AND CONSERVATION ELEMENTS.


ORDINANCES - SECOND READING:

4. Approved ORDINANCE NO. 09O-01-100: TO PROVIDE AN AMORTIZATION PERIOD FOR SPECIFIED SPECIAL RESIDENTIAL FACILITY AND SIMILAR NON-CONFORMING USES IN THE CANNON POINT AREA THROUGH JANUARY 30, 2016.

5. Approved ORDINANCE NO. 09O-01-102: CREATING ARTICLE III, PROCEDURE WITH SPECIAL MASTER; ESTABLISHING AND PROVIDING PROCEDURES FOR USE OF SPECIAL MASTER; PROVIDING FOR CODIFICATION.


RESOLUTIONS

COMMISSION

6. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-01-13: APPOINTING MEMBERS TO THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL PLANNING AND ZONING BOARD.

7. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-01-14: APPOINTING VARIOUS BOARD MEMBERS TO THE EDUCATIONAL ADVISORY BOARD BY COMMISSIONER M. MARGARET BATES, COMMISSIONER HOWARD BERGER, AND COMMISSIONER DALE V.C. HOLNESS.

8. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-01-16: APPOINTING THEODORE RICH BY COMMISSIONER M. MARGARET BATES; APPOINTING ED SCHEFFLER BY COMMISSIONER HOWARD BERGER; AND APPOINTING RICHARD CAMPBELL BY COMMISSIONER DALE V.C. HOLNESS ALL TO THE RECREATION ADVISORY BOARD FOR A TERM TO EXPIRE NOVEMBER 2012.

9. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-01-17: APPOINTING WAYNE L. ALEXANDER BY COMMISSIONER M. MARGARET BATES, APPOINTING PATRICIA A. BRYANT BY COMMISSIONER HOWARD BERGER, AND APPOINTING JUDI HAMILTON BY COMMISSIONER DALE V.C. HOLNESS TO THE ART, CULTURAL AND TOURISM (“ACT”) BOARD FOR THE TERM TO EXPIRE NOVEMBER 2012.

10. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-01-18: APPOINTING BERYL COLLINS BY MAYOR RICHARD J. KAPLAN AS AN ALTERNATE MEMBER OF THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL CODE ENFORCEMENT FOR A TERM TO EXPIRE DECEMBER 2010.

11. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-01-19: APPROVING PAYMENT OF THE MEMBERSHIP DUES TO THE NATIONAL LEAGUE OF CITIES IN THE AMOUNT OF $4,467.00 FOR THE PERIOD BEGINNING MARCH 1, 2009 AND ENDING FEBRUARY 28, 2010; PROVIDING FOR PAYMENT FROM BUDGET CODE NUMBER 001-101-5410.


D.E.E.S.

11. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-01-20: WAIVING COMPETITIVE BIDDING REQUIREMENTS; APPOINTING LIGHTING DYNAMICS, INC. AS THE SOLE SOURCE SUPPLIER OF THE SPECIFIED MODEL OF BEACON PRODUCTS DECORATIVE LIGHT POLES AND FIXTURES TO GUARANTEE UNIFORMITY THROUGHOUT THE CITY AND TO GUARANTEE THE UNIT PRICE OF $1809.00 PER FIXTURE THROUGH JUNE 30, 2009.

12. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-01-21: ACCEPTING THE BID OF HIMES ELECTRIC COMPANY, INC. IN THE AMOUNT OF $173,182.29 FOR THE SUPPLY AND INSTALLATION OF LIGHT POLES AND FIXTURES AT WEST WIND PARK IN THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL.

13. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-01-22: APPROVING THE AGREEMENT WITH MALCOLM PIRNIE, INC. IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $74,824.00 TO COMPLETE THE “WATER USE PERMIT APPLICATION” IN ORDER TO COMPLY WITH WATER REGULATIONS AND TO ENSURE A CONTINUING SOURCE OF WATER FOR THE CORRESPONDING TREATMENT AND DISTRIBUTION.


FINANCE

14. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-01-23: APPROVING FUNDING TO THE WINDERMERE CONDO ASSOCIATION FOR NEIGHBORHOOD IMPROVEMENTS; PROVIDING FOR COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT (CDBG) FUNDS TO BE ALLOCATED FOR THIS PURPOSE.

15. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-01-24: APPROVING THE ESTABLISHMENT OF AN IRREVOCABLE TRUST FOR THE PURPOSE OF ACCOUNTING FOR POST-EMPLOYMENT BENEFITS OTHER THAN PENSIONS (OPEB) AS PART OF THE COMPENSATION FOR SERVICES RENDERED BY CITY EMPLOYEES; APPROVING THE TOTAL FUNDING OF THE TRUST IN THE AMOUNT OF $151,000.00.

16. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-01-25: INDICATING THE OFFICIAL INTENT OF THE CITY TO ISSUE TAX-EXEMPT BONDS TO FINANCE THE COST OF ACQUISITION, CONSTRUCTION, EQUIPPING AND INSTALLATION OF VARIOUS IMPROVEMENTS DETAILED IN THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL’S FIVE-YEAR CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PLAN AND TO USE A PORTION OF THE PROCEEDS OF SUCH BONDS TO REIMBURSE EXPENDITURES PAID OR INCURRED PRIOR TO THE DATE OF ISSUANCE THEREOF.

17. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-01-26: APPROVING THE AMENDMENT TO THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL’S COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT (CDBG) ACTION PLAN FOR FISCAL YEAR 2008 TO TRANSFER $5,000.00 IN FUNDS FROM THE WINDERMERE COMMUNITY YOUTH PROGRAM TO THE INTERIM ASSISTANCE FOR SENIORS PROGRAM; APPROVING THE TRANSFER OF $153,854.15 FROM THE REHABILITATION PROGRAM AND THE TRANSFER OF UN-PROGRAMMED FUNDS FROM PRIOR FISCAL YEARS IN THE AMOUNT OF $627,145.85 TO THE WINDERMERE CONDO ASSOCIATION FOR NEIGHBORHOOD IMPROVEMENTS.


BUSINESS/NEIGHBORHOOD ENRICHMENT

18. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-01-27: APPROVING THE RECOMMENDATIONS MADE BY THE SHIP AFFORDABLE HOUSING ADVISORY COMMITTEE TO FACILITATE AFFORDABLE HOUSING.


CODE ENFORCEMENT/BUILDING

19. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-01-28: APPROVING THE REMETERING AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL AND FITZROY BROWN TO ALLOW THE SUBMETERS AT THE DUPLEX LOCATED IN LAUDERHILL MANORS AT 5870 AND 5874 N.W. 20th STREET, LAUDERHILL, FLORIDA IN ORDER TO SEPARATELY BILL EACH INDIVIDUAL USER BASED UPON ACTUAL WATER CONSUMPTION AT THE SAME RATE UTILIZED BY THE CITY.


HUMAN RESOURCES

20. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-01-29: APPROVING THE CONVERSION OF THE PART-TIME JOB DESCRIPTION FOR COMPUTER TECHNICIAN I WITHIN THE M.I.S. DIVISION TO A FULL-TIME POSITION.


POLICE

21. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-01-30: APPROVING THE EXPENDITURE OF FEDERAL FORFEITURE FUNDS; APPROVING PAYMENT IN THE AMOUNT OF $3,510.00 TO ATLANTIC SIGNAL, LLC., FOR THE PURCHASE OF SIX (6) TACTICAL HEADSETS FOR USE BY THE POLICE DEPARTMENT SPECIAL RESPONSE TEAM MEMBERS.

ENCORE Performing Arts Center Hold Open Auditions

ENCORE Performing Arts Center Inc. (ENCORE PAC Inc.) will hold open auditions located at West Ken Lark Community Center 1321 NW 33rd Avenue, Lauderhill, Florida 33311.
Open auditions will be held on Saturday, February 7, 2009. Registration 10AM-3PM.

Auditions are FREE and open to children ages 6-19*.
Auditions will consist of three (3) phases: Drama, Vocal and Dance.

Phase 1: Drama
Children will participate in an individual drama audition session where they will be required to read a short monologue. Children are NOT required to memorize the script however they will be judged on their ability to read, articulate and portray a character, stage presence and how they interact with the Drama Coach.

Phase 2: Vocal
Children will participate in an individual vocal audition session. They will be required to perform one (1) song, a cappella. (A list of popular song choices will be provided upon arrival however, lyrics will not be provided.) Children will be judged on pitch, tone, stage presence and overall vocal ability.

Phase 3: Dance
Children will participate in an individual dance audition session. (They may also be asked to participate in a group dance audition session including jazz, modern and/or hip hop styles where they will be judged on their ability to learn, retain and perform a two (2) minute dance routine taught by the dance coach.) Children will also be judged on overall movement and stage presence.

Children should wear comfortable clothing & sneakers
and be prepared to act, sing & dance!
*Children must be accompanied by a parent/legal guardian.

About ENCORE Performing Arts Center Inc.
ENCORE PERFORMING ARTS CENTER Inc. is a non-profit organization, founded in 2006, to provide a safe environment and creative outlet for children ages 6-19 yrs. ENCORE offers a weekly performing arts workshop including lessons in musical theater, drama, dance, singing, improvisation, spoken word and public speaking. Children also perform original productions, several times a year, throughout South Florida.
Unlike other performing arts programs whose services are too expensive for most families, ENCORE is FREE for children ages 6-19yrs, regardless of household income, welcoming all children from Broward, Dade and Palm Beach counties.

Encore Performing Arts Center Inc. is recognized by the IRS as a 501 c(3) non-profit corporation. Contributions are tax deductible.

Partners/Sponsors/Participants include: The City of Lauderhill and Cox Radio Inc.

New City Hall Under Construction Picture Showing A Roof

Jazz Picnic in the Park Again A Success

On January 11, the second in a series of Jazz Picnics in the Park was held at the Ilene Lieberman Botanical Gardens. The event presented by Florida Medical Center, and also sponsored by the Inverrary Association, featured the Sound of Vision, with a surprise singing performance by Joan Carter.

About 400 people attended the event, and the weather was perfect. It was so much fun that no one wanted to leave.


The last of the series is scheduled for March 8, 2009 from 10 AM to 2 PM. The performer is Bob Folse, who features the sound of a Latin Jazz Guitarist. To hear a demo: http://www.bobfolse.com/html/music.html.


If you attend, there is some seating in the amphitheatre. However, you may wish to bring your chairs, blankets, picnic baskets (particularly something to drink), and maybe a shade umbrella. Beverages are available for purchase, and food can be ordered and delivered to the park. No cooking or grills allowed.

Census Jobs Available

The United States Census Bureau has announced that they are hiring for the 2010 census. By February 2009, it is expected that 150,000 persons will be hired. Within the next 1 1/2 years, 1.2 million will be hired. It is especially needed for those that represent minorities to apply.

The jobs include Census Takers, Crew Leaders, Crew Leader Assistants, Recruting Assistants, and Census Clerks. For more information, or to schedule an appointment call 1-866-861-2010. You can also get information from: www.2010censusjobs.gov.

Digital Television is Coming

By law, on February 17, 2009, televisions stations will no longer be transmitting an analog signal. What that means is that if you have an older analog TV, it will not work after February, 17 if it uses its own antennae. However, if it is connected to cable or satellite, or you obtain a digital-to-analog converter box, it can still operate. Of course, newer digital TV's will work fine.

Each household is entitled to receive two $40 coupons to be used toward the purchase of two digital-to-analog converter boxes. To obtain a converter box visit http://www.dtv2009.gov/, or call 888-388-2009.

Lauderhill Students Attend Panther Game

On December 29, students from Lauderhill Middle Schools and from the Windermere Community Kids Program, attended the Florida Panthers vs. Montreal Canadians Hockey Game. Students were selected by their school: Lauderhill Middle, Smart School Charter Middle and Parkway Middle; or by the Recreation Program of Lauderhill. The skybox tickets were donated by ADT, which included Parking and Food.

The students had a great time, and for many it was the first experience with Hockey or seeing the BankAtlantic Center. Thanks to ADT.

Notes of the Regular Commission Meeting on January 12

On January 12, the City Commission met at our Regular Commission Meeting, and the following are notes of interest from the meetings:

REGULAR COMMISSION MEETING:

PRESENTATIONS:

A. A PRESENTATION BY ALLAN OWENS, CPA, OF THE (GFOA) GOVERNMENT FINANCE OFFICERS ASSOCIATION TO PRESENT THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL FINANCE DEPARTMENT; CERTIFICATE OF ACHIEVEMENT AWARD 2007

B. A PRESENTATION BY MR. LEONARD A. DUNCANSON, GUIDANCE COUNSELOR, LAUDERHILL MIDDLE SCHOOL REGARDING THE “BOYS TO MEN” MENTORSHIP PROGRAM, ALONG WITH A PLAQUE PRESENTATION


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

1. Approved ORDINANCE NO. 09O-01-100: CREATING SUBSECTION 1.15, AMORTIZATION PERIOD FOR NON-CONFORMING USES LOCATED IN THE CANNON POINT AREA; TO PROVIDE AN AMORTIZATION PERIOD FOR SPECIFIED SPECIAL RESIDENTIAL FACILITY AND SIMILAR NON-CONFORMING USES IN THE CANNON POINT AREA THROUGH JANUARY 30, 2016.

2. Tabled ORDINANCE NO. 09O-01-101: AMENDING SICK LEAVE USED IN CONJUNCTION WITH WORKERS’ COMPENSATION.

3. Approved ORDINANCE NO. 09O-01-102: CREATING ARTICLE III, PROCEDURE WITH SPECIAL MASTER; ESTABLISHING AND PROVIDING PROCEDURES FOR USE OF SPECIAL MASTER ON A NON-EXCLUSIVE BASIS.


ORDINANCES & PUBLIC HEARINGS --- SECOND READING:

NONE


RESOLUTIONS

COMMISSION

4. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-01-01: RECOGNIZING THE “BUILDING CITIZENSHIP IN THE COMMUNITY: BACK TO BASICS” INITIATIVE OF THE FLORIDA LEAGUE OF CITIES, INC., AND PLEDGING SUPPORT FOR THIS STATEWIDE EFFORT(REQUESTED BY MAYOR RICHARD J. KAPLAN)

ADMINISTRATION

5. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-01-02: ACCEPTING AND APPROVING THE BILL OF SALE AND UTILITY EASEMENT DEDICATION FOR UTILITIES FROM FTMI REAL ESTATE, LLC FOR THE PROPERTY LOCATED AT 6700 W. COMMERCIAL BOULEVARD, MORE COMMONLY KNOWN AS MADISON HOUSE AND IVY COURT AT FOREST TRACE ALF.

PLANNING & ZONING

6. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-01-03: REQUESTING THE BROWARD COUNTY PLANNING COUNCIL TO RECERTIFY THE LAUDERHILL CYCLE 2008-AR1 FUTURE LAND USE ELEMENT (FLUE) AMENDMENT.

7. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-01-04: AMENDING THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN, FUTURE LAND USE ELEMENT SUPPORT DOCUMENT BIKE LANES, GREENWAYS AND PARKS MAP.

D.E.E.S

8. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-01-05: ACCEPTING THE PROPOSAL FROM BARRANCO-GONZALEZ, INC. IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $59,680.00 FOR PROFESSIONAL CONSULTING SERVICES FOR THE PREPARATION OF THE NECESSARY CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENTS AND SPECIFICATIONS, TO OBTAIN THE REQUIRED PERMITS AND APPROVALS AND TO SUPPORT THE BID PROCESS FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE NEW WESTWIND PARK COMMUNITY CENTER; PROVIDING FOR PAYMENT FROM GENERAL OBLIGATION (GO) BOND FUNDS BUDGET CODE NUMBER 305-361-6532.

9. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-01-06: ACCEPTING THE PROPOSAL FROM BARRANCO-GONZALEZ, INC. IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $87,560.00 FOR PROFESSIONAL CONSULTING SERVICES FOR THE PREPARATION OF THE NECESSARY CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENTS AND SPECIFICATIONS, TO OBTAIN THE REQUIRED PERMITS AND APPROVALS AND TO SUPPORT THE BID PROCESS FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE CULTURAL MUSEUM LOCATED AT “THE OLD CITY HALL” AT 1080 N.W. 47th AVENUE; PROVIDING FOR PAYMENT FROM GENERAL OBLIGATION (GO) BOND FUNDS AND GRANT MONIES FROM THE LAND STEWARDSHIP PROGRAM “PARKS FOR PEOPLE.

10. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-01-07: APPROVING THE INTERLOCAL AGREEMENT BETWEEN BROWARD COUNTY AND THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL FOR THE DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION OF AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES (ADA) ACCESSIBLE BUS STOPS; PROVIDING FOR REIMBURSEMENT IN THE AMOUNT OF $47,015.74 TO THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF FIFTEEN (15) ADA COMPLIANT BUS STOP IMPROVEMENTS LOCATED WITHIN THE CITY.

POLICE

11. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-01-08: APPROVING THE EXPENDITURE OF FUNDS FROM THE POLICE DEPARTMENT FEDERAL FORFEITURE FUND IN THE TOTAL AMOUNT OF $29,481.20 FOR THE PURCHASE OF FIFTEEN (15) DELL LATITUDE D630 LAPTOP COMPUTERS AND FIVE (5) DELL VOSTRO 1710 LAPTOP COMPUTERS FROM DELL COMPUTER CORPORATION BASED UPON THE STATE OF FLORIDA PURCHASING CONTRACT #250-000-03-1.

12. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-01-09: APPROVING THE EXPENDITURE OF FUNDS FROM THE POLICE DEPARTMENT FEDERAL FORFEITURE FUND IN THE TOTAL AMOUNT OF $8,508.63 FOR THE PURCHASE OF EMERGENCY VEHICLE LIGHTING AND EQUIPMENT FROM LOCAL SUPPLIER EMERGENCY VEHICLE SUPPLY (EVS) BASED UPON THE MARTIN COUNTY CONTRACT #AR-2007-2066.

13. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-01-10: APPROVING THE EXPENDITURE OF FUNDS FROM THE POLICE DEPARTMENT FEDERAL FORFEITURE FUND IN THE TOTAL AMOUNT OF $10,320.00 FOR THE PURCHASE OF 120 STREAMLIGHT TLR-1 TACTICAL MOUNTED GUN LIGHTS FROM THE LOW QUOTE, LOU’S POLICE & SECURITY EQUIPMENT, INC.

14. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-01-11: APPROVING THE EXPENDITURE OF FUNDS FROM THE POLICE DEPARTMENT FEDERAL FORFEITURE FUND IN THE TOTAL AMOUNT OF $8,376.00 FOR THE PURCHASE OF 120 SAFARILAND ALS HOLSTERS FROM THE LOW QUOTE, LOU’S POLICE & SECURITY EQUIPMENT, INC.

Sadkin Center to Temporarily Close

Due to damage from Hurricane Wilma, and the need to make other significant renovations and repairs, Sadkin Community Center has been temporarily closed. The present time schedule for completion of these repairs is by September, 2009. Everything will be done to try and re-open Sadkin Center earlier if possible.

Some of the money for these repairs are coming from the Great Neighborhood Capital Improvement Bond passed by voters in 2005. The cost of this project is estimated at $900,000.

In the meantime, activities that would normally take place at Sadkin Center will be moved as followed:

*Senior Center program – St. George Community Center, 954-791-1042
*KCC afterschool care and youth programs – West Ken Lark Community Center, 954-791-1035
*Meetings, most will be relocated to the Golf Course, call Wolk Park staff for details 954-321-2465
*African Dance classes, Windermere Community Center, 954-714-3238

What Should I Do In 2010?

By Mayor Richard J. Kaplan

One of the most often asked questions I have been asked recently is, whether or not I am running for re-election as Mayor in 2010? The answer I have been giving, and this is honestly the answer, “I don’t know?” I have had some leanings, but sometimes I lean back the other way. However, I have said that I would make a decision in 2009.

Well 2009 is here, and soon I will make this decision. When I do, I will let everyone know. But, in the meantime, I do want to relate what I have told others my options are, what I have been thinking, and what others have been urging me to do.

First, there is always the possibility that I chose not to run at all, but to retire. I have served for over 20 years, and that is a long time. Compound that with the overwhelming vote of the people for term limits, and it is clear that residents do not want elected officials to serve forever. The problem has been is this option has not met with almost any support nor enthusiasm, even when faced with their recent vote(which many didn’t want to apply to the Mayor). In fact, many have become upset at the mere mention of it, and have encouraged me not to make it a consideration. I appreciate this vote of confidence.

Next, I could run for County Judge in 2010. This has received some support, and it was pointed out that if I am unsuccessful in the Primary, then I could always decide to run again for Mayor. However, running for judge is both a difficult, expensive and challenging decision. It would also require me to give up many of the interests that I have in public policy. Transportation, green initiatives, redevelopment, and others areas would no longer be in the domain of a judge to create. But then new doors of interest would open.

Lastly, I could run for Mayor again, which has received the strongest support. Still there are future options to that prospect that I have been urged to consider. If I am the Mayor (or not, though it is more likely it would be while being the Mayor), in 2012, two seats for other offices will open that many would consider me qualified for, State Representative and County Commission.

Both are subject to reapportionment, and there is no guarantee what district I would be written into, nor what areas of Lauderhill would be included in those districts. Either prospect would require me to resign before the end of my term. So there is something at risk.

If I ran for one of those seats, I would want as much of my city to be included. I have enjoyed representing Lauderhill, and would like to continue that along with whatever other cities that would comprise the district. What is nice about this prospect is that a decision on 2012 would not have to be made immediately, but can be in the back of my mind.

State Representative would still allow me to be involved in areas I have interest in, but at a different level. Already, long before 2012, I have become involved in drafting and supporting state legislation. This legislation session I wrote HB 119 on creating a State-wide Mortgage Foreclosure Registry. The difficulty of serving on a state level is the distance from my home, family and work. This is a common issue among many that have considered this option.

Being a County Commissioner is a different story. It is local, involves many of the same issues as what we see in the cities, and is something I am much more versed in. Particularly as it relates to transportation, environment and financial matters. This position is one that many have told me that would make sense for me to do. One where I feel that I could make a difference in how the county relates to our daily lives, working cooperatively with cities.

But don’t jump to conclusions since I still have time to think this through. Time will tell what I do, and input from those that I have worked with and for is important too. I have provided a survey to find out what you think. So let me know. And when I know the answer, I’ll let you know.

FMC Presents Jazz Picnic In The Park - January 11, 10 AM to 2 PM, at the Lieberman Botanical Gardens

Lauderhill College Essay Scholarship - 2009

Mayor Richard J Kaplan announces that for the second year, the City of Lauderhill will sponsor the Lauderhill College Essay Scholarship Program. This year $2000 is available, to be divided into four $500 scholarships. The funding for the scholarship came from the Crime Confiscation Fund.

Any High School Senior, residing in Lauderhill, who has been accepted to a 2 or 4 year College or Vocation School is eligible. To apply, the applicant must submit two 500 word essays on the topics provided in the application form. The application form is available at: http://lauderhill-fl.gov/Lauderhill%20College%20Scholarship%202009.pdf.

The deadline to apply is February 27, 2009, and all applications must be hand delivered by that day to the City Clerks Office, 3800 Inverrary Blvd., #301, Lauderhill. No applications by mail will be accepted.

Broward County Offers Assistance to Avoid Foreclosure

The Broward County Housing Finance and Community Development Division has partnered with the Broward County Housing Authority to provide financial assistance of up to $9,000 for defaulted mortgages. This program targets resident homeowners who are 30 days delinquent by providing financial assistance to reinstate mortgage loans.

The property must be owner occupied and the home must meet program qualifications and guidelines. Also, extensive counseling is provided as it relates to preserving homeownership. For more information, contact: Broward County Housing Authority, 4780 North State Road 7, Lauderdale Lakes, FL 33319 or call Phyllis Brown at 954-739-1114, ext. 1114. View Details on Foreclosure Prevention Program