The Back to School Book Bag and School Supply Giveaway Resource Fair is on Saturday, August 9, 2008, from 10 AM – 3 PM, at the Lauderhill Boys & Girls Club. (1900 NW 55th Ave.)
Parents be advised: Children must come with an adult and an ID proving Lauderhill residency. Supplies will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. There is a two (2) book bag limit per family.
The Back to School Book Bag and School Supply Giveaway Resource Fair will also promote literacy and health awareness for families with children K-12. There will be books for children and teens, health education, back to school physicals, and supplies including book bags, pencils, pens, and crayons.
For more information, contact Beryl Collins at 954-321-8322 or 954-609-3033.
Thursday, July 31, 2008
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Ribbon Cutting Ceremony at the Opening of a New Passive Park
The City of Lauderhill will hold a ribbon cutting ceremony, opening a new park located in the West Ken Lark Neighborhood.
On Friday, the 1st of August, 2008, at 10 AM, the residents of West Ken Lark will join Lauderhill’s City Commission to celebrate the opening of a new beautifully landscaped Passive Park at NW 32 Avenue and NW 17 Street.
The idle land was generally described by residents as an eye soar. Residents and members of the West Ken Lark Homeowners’ Association asked the City Commission to transform the quarter of an acre into a Passive Park. Through the City’s General Obligation bond dollars $46,000 was designated to develop this beautiful new Passive Park, located at 3255 NW 17 Street. The President of the West Ken Lark Homeowners’ Association, Mr. James Bradley, states, “I am very happy that the community of West Ken Lark has another park to for everyone to enjoy!”
The New Passive 17th Street Park, similarly to the newly opened Renaissance Park, was developed by the City’s Department of Environmental and Engineering Services employees rather than a contractor to help save money. The staff constructed meandering concrete sidewalks, planted Bahia Sod, new shrubbery and plants – which all require less water than other types of sod and plants. In addition, they transported mature trees that were once on the site of the old City Hall site that was recently demolished. The Park also includes a bike rack and will soon have benches as well.
Join Mr. Bradley, the residents of Lauderhill, and City Officials, as we celebrate the opening of the new NW 17 Street Passive Park in West Ken Lark, Friday, the 1st of August at 10 AM!
Light refreshments will be served.
For more information, please call 954-730-3000.
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
New Lauderhill Libraries Hours
The Broward County Commission has, due to budgetary cuts, set new reduced hours for the county libraries serving Lauderhill, effective August 1, 2008. The new hours are:
Lauderhill Mall Libary
Sunday & Friday - Closed
Monday & Wednesday - 12 to 8 PM
Tuesday, Thursday & Saturday - 10 AM to 6 PM
Lauderhill Towne Center Library
Sunday & Friday - Closed
Monday & Tuesday - 12 to 8 PM
Wednesday, Thursday & Saturday - 10 AM to 6 PM
Lauderhill Mall Libary
Sunday & Friday - Closed
Monday & Wednesday - 12 to 8 PM
Tuesday, Thursday & Saturday - 10 AM to 6 PM
Lauderhill Towne Center Library
Sunday & Friday - Closed
Monday & Tuesday - 12 to 8 PM
Wednesday, Thursday & Saturday - 10 AM to 6 PM
Saturday, July 26, 2008
OUTLOOK: CONGRESS SET TO CLEAR HOUSING BILL
Congress this week appears slated to clear the biggest housing
package in a generation, a measure that would provide help for at-risk
subprime borrowers, place a tough new regulator in charge of Fannie Mae
and Freddie Mac, create an affordable housing trust fund and provide tax
breaks to spur homebuying.
The package was placed on the fast-track when Treasury Secretary
Paulson last week asked lawmakers to include a plan to help Fannie and
Freddie, whose stock plummeted over fears they are undercapitalized.
The proposal would provide a temporary increase for the line of
credit the two have with Treasury and allow the department to purchase
equity in the two and grant the Federal Reserve new powers so it can
consult their regulator on setting capital standards for Fannie and
Freddie. Lawmakers are expected to place restrictions on the plan to
limit taxpayer liability.
In exchange for inclusion of the plan, House Democrats demanded
that about $4 billion in Community Development Block Grant funding for
communities to buy and rehabilitate foreclosed homes be attached,
despite a White House veto threat over the provision.
House Speaker Pelosi last week predicted the president would not
veto the package with the block grant funding in the face of Fannie's
and Freddie's troubles.
The House is slated to vote Wednesday on the package, which
includes a revamp of the oversight at Fannie, Freddie and the Federal
Home Loan Bank System; an overhaul of the Federal Housing
Administration's mortgage insurance program, and allow the FHA to
guarantee up to $300 billion in new loans for at-risk subprime
borrowers.
It also would siphon some of Fannie's and Freddie's new business
to create an affordable-housing trust fund, providing about $500 million
annually to low-income residents.
The Senate is expected to take up the measure and clear it by
the end of the week.
package in a generation, a measure that would provide help for at-risk
subprime borrowers, place a tough new regulator in charge of Fannie Mae
and Freddie Mac, create an affordable housing trust fund and provide tax
breaks to spur homebuying.
The package was placed on the fast-track when Treasury Secretary
Paulson last week asked lawmakers to include a plan to help Fannie and
Freddie, whose stock plummeted over fears they are undercapitalized.
The proposal would provide a temporary increase for the line of
credit the two have with Treasury and allow the department to purchase
equity in the two and grant the Federal Reserve new powers so it can
consult their regulator on setting capital standards for Fannie and
Freddie. Lawmakers are expected to place restrictions on the plan to
limit taxpayer liability.
In exchange for inclusion of the plan, House Democrats demanded
that about $4 billion in Community Development Block Grant funding for
communities to buy and rehabilitate foreclosed homes be attached,
despite a White House veto threat over the provision.
House Speaker Pelosi last week predicted the president would not
veto the package with the block grant funding in the face of Fannie's
and Freddie's troubles.
The House is slated to vote Wednesday on the package, which
includes a revamp of the oversight at Fannie, Freddie and the Federal
Home Loan Bank System; an overhaul of the Federal Housing
Administration's mortgage insurance program, and allow the FHA to
guarantee up to $300 billion in new loans for at-risk subprime
borrowers.
It also would siphon some of Fannie's and Freddie's new business
to create an affordable-housing trust fund, providing about $500 million
annually to low-income residents.
The Senate is expected to take up the measure and clear it by
the end of the week.
Thursday, July 24, 2008
House to Consider $8 Billion Highway Trust Fund Shortfall Remedy and Update on House Passes Bill
The House of Representatives is reportedly prepared to consider legislation Wednesday to transfer $8.017 billion to the Highway Trust Fund to offset a projected shortfall in Fiscal Year 2009.
Sources indicate that the House leadership plans to expedite the bill, introduced last Thursday, to a floor vote using a procedure known as suspension of the rules. Under such a maneuver, the bill can bypass a committee hearing and gain House passage if at least two-thirds of representatives vote "yes." The procedure is commonly used in the House to pass noncontroversial legislation.
The bill, HR 6532, was introduced by House Ways & Means Committee Chairman Charles Rangel, D-N.Y. Its cosponsors include House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee Chairman James Oberstar, D-Minn., and John Mica, R-Fla., the T&I Committee's ranking minority member.
"We appreciate the strong support being shown by members of both the House and Senate to solve this critical problem, and keep America's transportation projects moving forward," said AASHTO Executive Director John Horsley. Several organizations have sent letters to members of the House today urging approval of the measure.
"The nation's highway system has significant capital, operating, and maintenance needs, and state departments of transportation and metropolitan planning organizations have developed long-term transportation investment plans based on anticipated guaranteed funding levels," wrote R. Bruce Josten, executive vice president for government affairs at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. "A reduction in guaranteed spending in 2009 would disrupt projects already underway and further delay necessary maintenance, upgrades, and expansion of our nation's infrastructure."
The National Association of Manufacturers told representatives an infusion of cash to the Highway Trust Fund is important to prevent a deficit that would adversely affect everyone in the nation who supplies materials for highway construction.
The House's planned vote Wednesday follows efforts earlier this month by Senate transportation appropriations leaders Patty Murray, D-Wash., and Kit Bond, R-Mo., to also provide an injection of $8.017 billion to the trust fund. The Senate Appropriations Committee included the provision two weeks ago in reporting out the FY 2009 transportation spending bill. Senators Max Baucus and Charles Grassley, leaders of the Senate Finance Committee, have also led efforts for action to restore solvency to the Highway Trust Fund.
The president's budget proposal in February projected that the trust fund would show a deficit of at least $3.3 billion in FY 2009 because expenditures have exceeded the trust fund balance. A new forecast is due from the U.S. Treasury Department in late July.
A transfer of $8.017 billion to the Highway Trust Fund would match the exact amount transferred out of the fund into general revenue in 1998 as part of an agreement negotiated to win passage of such provisions as funding guarantees and budget firewalls for the trust fund programs.
AASHTO and other organizations have warned Congress and the states that the $3.3 billion cash shortfall forecast in the trust fund's Highway Account for FY 2009 would result in a cut of $14 billion in federal highway funding because of the way federal highway funds are disbursed over several years.
"With the impending deficit in the HTF, many states are making plans to drastically scale back state road programs," wrote Jennifer Wilson, president and CEO of the National Stone, Sand, & Gravel Association. "Industry experts calculate the funding cuts will result in job losses nationwide totaling 380,000."
----------------------------------------
UPDATE - House Passes Highway Funding Bill, Brushing Aside Veto Threat
From Congressional Quarterly, By Colby Itkowitz, CQ Staff
Ignoring a White House veto threat, the House on Wednesday overwhelmingly passed legislation designed to shore up the federal Highway Trust Fund with $8 billion in general revenue.
Despite the president’s threat and opposition from some Republicans, the House passed the bill by 387-37. That was substantially more than the two-thirds majority required under the expedited procedure used for consideration of the bill.
“I wish as one of the strongest conservatives in the House to have some other alternative to bring you today, but I do not have that,” John L. Mica, R-Fla., the ranking Republican on the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, said.
The Highway Trust Fund earlier was expected to have a $3 billion shortfall in 2009, but new estimates scheduled to be released next week show that figure could increase to $6 billion as Americans drive less in response to $4 per gallon gasoline prices. The trust fund is financed through an 18.4-cents-per- gallon excise tax on gasoline.
Unless more revenue becomes available, hundreds of projects authorized in the 2005 highway law could not start and ones already in progress could have to be stretched out.
But the White House said in a statement of administration policy that Congress needs to come up with a better way to shore up the trust fund.
“This bill is both a gimmick and a dangerous precedent that shifts costs from users to taxpayers at large,” the White House said. “Moreover, the measure would unnecessarily increase the deficit and would place any hope of future, responsible constraints on highway spending in jeopardy.”
The Bush administration had suggested borrowing $3.2 billion from the federal mass transit account to cover the highway shortfall, but that was quickly rejected by most lawmakers.
Republicans on the House Budget Committee opposed the measure, as did their counterparts on the Appropriations Committee.
But most members of both parties were more concerned about keeping highway dollars flowing.
Rep. James L. Oberstar, D-Minn, chairman of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, promised that his committee will come up with creative financing when it tackles a rewrite of the surface transportation law next year. But he said that they were racing the clock to avoid a disruptive shortfall in the meantime.
Sources indicate that the House leadership plans to expedite the bill, introduced last Thursday, to a floor vote using a procedure known as suspension of the rules. Under such a maneuver, the bill can bypass a committee hearing and gain House passage if at least two-thirds of representatives vote "yes." The procedure is commonly used in the House to pass noncontroversial legislation.
The bill, HR 6532, was introduced by House Ways & Means Committee Chairman Charles Rangel, D-N.Y. Its cosponsors include House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee Chairman James Oberstar, D-Minn., and John Mica, R-Fla., the T&I Committee's ranking minority member.
"We appreciate the strong support being shown by members of both the House and Senate to solve this critical problem, and keep America's transportation projects moving forward," said AASHTO Executive Director John Horsley. Several organizations have sent letters to members of the House today urging approval of the measure.
"The nation's highway system has significant capital, operating, and maintenance needs, and state departments of transportation and metropolitan planning organizations have developed long-term transportation investment plans based on anticipated guaranteed funding levels," wrote R. Bruce Josten, executive vice president for government affairs at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. "A reduction in guaranteed spending in 2009 would disrupt projects already underway and further delay necessary maintenance, upgrades, and expansion of our nation's infrastructure."
The National Association of Manufacturers told representatives an infusion of cash to the Highway Trust Fund is important to prevent a deficit that would adversely affect everyone in the nation who supplies materials for highway construction.
The House's planned vote Wednesday follows efforts earlier this month by Senate transportation appropriations leaders Patty Murray, D-Wash., and Kit Bond, R-Mo., to also provide an injection of $8.017 billion to the trust fund. The Senate Appropriations Committee included the provision two weeks ago in reporting out the FY 2009 transportation spending bill. Senators Max Baucus and Charles Grassley, leaders of the Senate Finance Committee, have also led efforts for action to restore solvency to the Highway Trust Fund.
The president's budget proposal in February projected that the trust fund would show a deficit of at least $3.3 billion in FY 2009 because expenditures have exceeded the trust fund balance. A new forecast is due from the U.S. Treasury Department in late July.
A transfer of $8.017 billion to the Highway Trust Fund would match the exact amount transferred out of the fund into general revenue in 1998 as part of an agreement negotiated to win passage of such provisions as funding guarantees and budget firewalls for the trust fund programs.
AASHTO and other organizations have warned Congress and the states that the $3.3 billion cash shortfall forecast in the trust fund's Highway Account for FY 2009 would result in a cut of $14 billion in federal highway funding because of the way federal highway funds are disbursed over several years.
"With the impending deficit in the HTF, many states are making plans to drastically scale back state road programs," wrote Jennifer Wilson, president and CEO of the National Stone, Sand, & Gravel Association. "Industry experts calculate the funding cuts will result in job losses nationwide totaling 380,000."
----------------------------------------
UPDATE - House Passes Highway Funding Bill, Brushing Aside Veto Threat
From Congressional Quarterly, By Colby Itkowitz, CQ Staff
Ignoring a White House veto threat, the House on Wednesday overwhelmingly passed legislation designed to shore up the federal Highway Trust Fund with $8 billion in general revenue.
Despite the president’s threat and opposition from some Republicans, the House passed the bill by 387-37. That was substantially more than the two-thirds majority required under the expedited procedure used for consideration of the bill.
“I wish as one of the strongest conservatives in the House to have some other alternative to bring you today, but I do not have that,” John L. Mica, R-Fla., the ranking Republican on the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, said.
The Highway Trust Fund earlier was expected to have a $3 billion shortfall in 2009, but new estimates scheduled to be released next week show that figure could increase to $6 billion as Americans drive less in response to $4 per gallon gasoline prices. The trust fund is financed through an 18.4-cents-per- gallon excise tax on gasoline.
Unless more revenue becomes available, hundreds of projects authorized in the 2005 highway law could not start and ones already in progress could have to be stretched out.
But the White House said in a statement of administration policy that Congress needs to come up with a better way to shore up the trust fund.
“This bill is both a gimmick and a dangerous precedent that shifts costs from users to taxpayers at large,” the White House said. “Moreover, the measure would unnecessarily increase the deficit and would place any hope of future, responsible constraints on highway spending in jeopardy.”
The Bush administration had suggested borrowing $3.2 billion from the federal mass transit account to cover the highway shortfall, but that was quickly rejected by most lawmakers.
Republicans on the House Budget Committee opposed the measure, as did their counterparts on the Appropriations Committee.
But most members of both parties were more concerned about keeping highway dollars flowing.
Rep. James L. Oberstar, D-Minn, chairman of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, promised that his committee will come up with creative financing when it tackles a rewrite of the surface transportation law next year. But he said that they were racing the clock to avoid a disruptive shortfall in the meantime.
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
Looby's Angels Meet for Cardio Exercise
Looby's Angels is a group of approximately 40 to 50 women to meet three days a week at the Sports Park for cardio exercise. The coach is Looby, hence the name Looby's Angels. Meetings are on Mondays, Tuesday and Thursdays from 8 PM to 9:15 PM. The class is free--and it is asked that the participants come with a good attitude and enthusiasm.
The women in the group range in ages from 18 through 72 and are almost all professionals. With so many different talent and experiences in the group, the group is looking to give back to the community and volunteer. To that end, the group is also currently organizing a can food drive and planning visits to local nursing homes and community centers.
The women in the group range in ages from 18 through 72 and are almost all professionals. With so many different talent and experiences in the group, the group is looking to give back to the community and volunteer. To that end, the group is also currently organizing a can food drive and planning visits to local nursing homes and community centers.
Monday, July 21, 2008
Activities at Veteran's Park
Veteran's Park, 7600 NW 50th Street, holds several classes and activities:
JAZZERCISE
Monday - Thursday, 6 PM to 7 PM
$35/month (no contract); 8 week Pass (unlimited use) $86; One class - $10
Contact: Kim Vienneau, 954-698-9707; http://www.jazzercise.com/
JUDO
Monday and Wednesdays, 7:30 PM - 9:30 PM
Ages 6 and older
Registration Fee $25; Monthly Fee $50
Contact: Mike Cobb, 954-473-9679
KENDO
Fridays, 7:30 PM - 9:30 PM
Ages 12 and older
Registration Fee $25; Monthly Fee $50
Contact: Mike cobb, 954-473-9679
SOCCER
In House Team, Ages 5-10, $120/child
Traveling Team, Ages 9-18, $200/child
Contact: Keith Davis, 954-587-5401/954-793-7782
SCRABBLE CLUB #276
Wednesdays 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Fee $3
Contact: Sandy Bloom 954-726-6449
TAE KWON DO
Tuesdays and Thursday
Beginner's/Children's Classes 6:45 PM - 7:30 PM
Adult Classes 7:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Come watch or participate in 1 free class
Registration Fee $15; Monthly Fee $30/$40
Contact Master Tony Dodd, 561-866-1952
YOGA
Tuesdays, 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM
10 Classes for $100 or $12/class
Contact: Evelyn Freiberg, 954-721-8110
CAMERA CLUB
2nd and 4th Wednesday each Month
Contact: Warren Dorfman, 954-971-1495
DANCE
Saturdays 1:30 PM - 4:30 PM
Registration Fee $10/Semester Fee $150
Contact: Terry Stonom, 954-321-1412/954-544-0479
Email: tstonom@mtbbc.org, Web Site: http://www.tessence.org/
TAI CHI IN THE PARK
Tai Chi/Qiqong/Meditation
Fridays 7 PM - 9 PM and Sunday 9 AM - 11 AM
Contact: Shifu Abbey Rader, 954-663-8118; Email: abbeyrader@hotmail.com
NAUTILUS WEIGHT ROOM
Call Veterans's Park for information, 954-572-1459
WEEKEND POOL PARTIES
Call Veterans Park for Information, 954-572-1459
JAZZERCISE
Monday - Thursday, 6 PM to 7 PM
$35/month (no contract); 8 week Pass (unlimited use) $86; One class - $10
Contact: Kim Vienneau, 954-698-9707; http://www.jazzercise.com/
JUDO
Monday and Wednesdays, 7:30 PM - 9:30 PM
Ages 6 and older
Registration Fee $25; Monthly Fee $50
Contact: Mike Cobb, 954-473-9679
KENDO
Fridays, 7:30 PM - 9:30 PM
Ages 12 and older
Registration Fee $25; Monthly Fee $50
Contact: Mike cobb, 954-473-9679
SOCCER
In House Team, Ages 5-10, $120/child
Traveling Team, Ages 9-18, $200/child
Contact: Keith Davis, 954-587-5401/954-793-7782
SCRABBLE CLUB #276
Wednesdays 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Fee $3
Contact: Sandy Bloom 954-726-6449
TAE KWON DO
Tuesdays and Thursday
Beginner's/Children's Classes 6:45 PM - 7:30 PM
Adult Classes 7:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Come watch or participate in 1 free class
Registration Fee $15; Monthly Fee $30/$40
Contact Master Tony Dodd, 561-866-1952
YOGA
Tuesdays, 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM
10 Classes for $100 or $12/class
Contact: Evelyn Freiberg, 954-721-8110
CAMERA CLUB
2nd and 4th Wednesday each Month
Contact: Warren Dorfman, 954-971-1495
DANCE
Saturdays 1:30 PM - 4:30 PM
Registration Fee $10/Semester Fee $150
Contact: Terry Stonom, 954-321-1412/954-544-0479
Email: tstonom@mtbbc.org, Web Site: http://www.tessence.org/
TAI CHI IN THE PARK
Tai Chi/Qiqong/Meditation
Fridays 7 PM - 9 PM and Sunday 9 AM - 11 AM
Contact: Shifu Abbey Rader, 954-663-8118; Email: abbeyrader@hotmail.com
NAUTILUS WEIGHT ROOM
Call Veterans's Park for information, 954-572-1459
WEEKEND POOL PARTIES
Call Veterans Park for Information, 954-572-1459
Sunday, July 20, 2008
Friday, July 18, 2008
Lauderhill Police Department Wins National Award
The Lauderhill Police Department won first place in their category, for it's traffic initiatives in the City. This award was given by the International Association of Chiefs of Police Law Enforcement Challenge. This is the first time a Florida municipal agency has ever won this award.
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
Notes of Commission Meeting of July 14
On July 14, the City Commission met at a Regular Meeting (the last one before Summer Recess until August 25), and the following items of interest were discussed:
PRESENTATIONS:
A PRESENTATION BY IRVIN KIFFIN, DIRECTOR, PARKS AND LEISURE SERVICES, RECOGNIZING THE LAUDERHILL ANGELS NETBALL UNDER 14 TEAM FOR WINING THE NATIONAL U-14 CLUB CHAMPIONSHIP IN ATLANTA, GEORGIA.
ORDINANCES & PUBLIC HEARINGS ----- FIRST READING:
1. ORDINANCE NO. 08O-07-129: APPROVED AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL AMENDING THE CORPORATE BOUNDARIES OF THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL TO INCLUDE THOSE AREAS ANNEXED AND TO EXCLUDE THOSE AREAS DEANNEXED AS A RESULT OF THE PASSAGE OF HOUSE BILL 1071
ORDINANCES & PUBLIC HEARINGS --- SECOND READING:
2. ORDINANCE NO. 080-06-125: APPROVED AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL CALLING FOR A REFERENDUM TO CREATE A CITIZENS’ BILL OF RIGHTS BASED UPON RIGHTS ALREADY PROVIDED WITHIN FLORIDA STATE LAW AND CONTAINED IN THE CHARTER AND CODE OF THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL.
RESOLUTIONS
COMMISSION
3. RESOLUTION NO. 08R-07-166: THE COMMISSION BIFROCATED THE TWO SECTIONS IN 2 SEPARATE RESOLUTIONS. AS TO PERMITTING BROWARD CARIBBEAN CARNIVAL TO ENDORSE THE FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION (FDOT) APPLICATION TO SHUT DOWN STATE ROAD 7/U.S. 441 FOR THE CARNIVAL TO BE HELD ON OCTOBER 12, 2008 FROM 1 P.M. UNTIL 6 P.M., THE COMMISSION TABLED THE REQUEST UNTIL THE CITY ADMINISTRATION CAN REVIEW IT FURTHER AND THEN TO BRING IT BACK TO A SPECIAL MEETING. AS TO AUTHORIZING THE BCCI TO MAKE TWO (2) PARTIAL PAYMENTS TO THE CITY AS IT RELATES TO POLICE AND FIRE DETAILS FOR THE CARIBBEAN CARNIVAL EVENT WITH A 15% DOWN PAYMENT NOW IN THE AMOUNT OF $4,982.00 AND TO PAY THE BALANCE DUE IN THE AMOUNT OF $28,234.00 15 DAYS PRIOR TO THE EVENT, INSTEAD OF THE REQUIRED PAYMENT IN FULL IN THE AMOUNT OF $33,217.00 AT LEAST 60 DAYS PRIOR TO THE EVENT THE COMMISSION APPROVAL THE REQUEST; (REQUESTED BY COMMISSIONER DALE V.C. HOLNESS).
BUSINESS/ NEIGHBORHOOD ENRICHMENT
4. RESOLUTION NO. 08R-07-167: APPROVED A RESOLUTION APPROVING THE 2008/2009 SHIP BUDGET IN THE AMOUNT OF $567,130.00.
5. RESOLUTION NO. 08R-07-168: APPROVED A RESOLUTION APPROVING THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL'S COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT (CDBG) ONE YEAR ACTION PLAN FOR FISCAL YEAR 2009; BUDGETING $807,337.00 IN CDBG FUNDS TO VARIOUS PROJECTS THAT WILL BENEFIT LOW AND MODERATE INCOME RESIDENTS OF THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL.
6. RESOLUTION NO. 08R-07-169: APPROVED A RESOLUTION APPROVING AND ADOPTING THE AMENDMENT TO THE LOCAL HOUSING ASSISTANCE PLAN (LHAP) FOR THE STATE HOUSING INITIATIVE PROGRAM (SHIP) TO INCREASE THE AMOUNT FOR THE PURCHASE ASSISTANCE PROGRAM FROM $10,000.00 TO $20,000.00 AND TO INCREASE THE AMOUNT FOR THE MINOR HOME REPAIR AND DISASTER MITIGATION AND RECOVERY PROGRAMS FROM $15,000.00 TO $20,000.00.
PARKS AND LEISURE SERVICES
7. RESOLUTION NO. 08R-07-170: APPROVED A RESOLUTION APPROVING THE PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL AND RITA BOURNE TO INCREASE THE NUMBER OF SWIM INSTRUCTORS SERVING THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL WHICH WILL INCREASE REVENUE FOR THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL WITHOUT THE COST OF ADDITIONAL EMPLOYEES.
POLICE DEPARTMENT
8. RESOLUTION NO. 08R-07-171: APPROVED A RESOLUTION APPROVING THE DONATION OF FUNDS IN THE AMOUNT OF $2,800.00 FROM THE STATE LOCAL LAW ENFORCEMENT TRUST FUND (LETF) TO VARIOUS NEIGHBORHOOD HOMEOWNERS’ ASSOCIATIONS TO SUPPORT DRUG TREATMENT, DRUG EDUCATION OR DRUG PREVENTION, CRIME PREVENTION, SAFE NEIGHBORHOOD, OR SCHOOL RESOURCE OFFICER PROGRAMS IN ACCORDANCE WITH STATE GUIDELINES.
9. RESOLUTION NO. 08R-07-172: APPROVED A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL APPROVING THE DONATION IN THE AMOUNT OF $5,000.00 FROM THE POLICE DEPARTMENT FEDERAL FORFEITURE FUND TO THE FAMILY LITERACY & LIFESKILLS PROGRAM THROUGH MATTOD & ASSOCIATES FOR USE IN CONNECTION WITH THE DRIFTWOOD TERRACE APARTMENTS GED PROGRAM.
10. RESOLUTION NO. 08R-07-173: APPROVED A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL ACCEPTING THE BUREAU OF JUSTICE ASSISTANCE, FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF LAW ENFORCEMENT EDWARD BYRNE MEMORIAL JUSTICE ASSISTANCE GRANT (JAG) FOR FISCAL YEAR 2007 IN THE AMOUNT OF $50,333.00; ACKNOWLEDGING THAT NO MATCHING FUNDS ARE REQUIRED; AUTHORIZING THE APPROPRIATION OF THOSE FUNDS TO INDIVIDUAL REVENUE AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNTS AS REQUESTED.
QUASI JUDICIAL - FIRST READING:
11. RESOLUTION NO. 08R-07-174: APPROVED A RESOLUTION GRANTING TO RAISING INDIVIDUAL STUDENT EXCELLENCE (RISE) EDUCATION SCHOOLS, INC. A SPECIAL EXCEPTION USE DEVELOPMENT ORDER, SUBJECT TO CONDITIONS, TO ALLOW A CHARTER ELEMENTARY SCHOOL (GRADES K THROUGH 5TH) WITH TRANSPORTATION SERVICES AND AFTERSCHOOL CHILD CARE SERVICES TO SHARE SPACE WITH SMART SCHOOL, INC, A CHARTER MIDDLE SCHOOL AT 3698 N.W. 15TH STREET, LAUDERHILL, FLORIDA BY A 4-1 VOTE. COMMISSION BENSON VOTING AGAINST IT.
PRESENTATIONS:
A PRESENTATION BY IRVIN KIFFIN, DIRECTOR, PARKS AND LEISURE SERVICES, RECOGNIZING THE LAUDERHILL ANGELS NETBALL UNDER 14 TEAM FOR WINING THE NATIONAL U-14 CLUB CHAMPIONSHIP IN ATLANTA, GEORGIA.
ORDINANCES & PUBLIC HEARINGS ----- FIRST READING:
1. ORDINANCE NO. 08O-07-129: APPROVED AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL AMENDING THE CORPORATE BOUNDARIES OF THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL TO INCLUDE THOSE AREAS ANNEXED AND TO EXCLUDE THOSE AREAS DEANNEXED AS A RESULT OF THE PASSAGE OF HOUSE BILL 1071
ORDINANCES & PUBLIC HEARINGS --- SECOND READING:
2. ORDINANCE NO. 080-06-125: APPROVED AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL CALLING FOR A REFERENDUM TO CREATE A CITIZENS’ BILL OF RIGHTS BASED UPON RIGHTS ALREADY PROVIDED WITHIN FLORIDA STATE LAW AND CONTAINED IN THE CHARTER AND CODE OF THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL.
RESOLUTIONS
COMMISSION
3. RESOLUTION NO. 08R-07-166: THE COMMISSION BIFROCATED THE TWO SECTIONS IN 2 SEPARATE RESOLUTIONS. AS TO PERMITTING BROWARD CARIBBEAN CARNIVAL TO ENDORSE THE FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION (FDOT) APPLICATION TO SHUT DOWN STATE ROAD 7/U.S. 441 FOR THE CARNIVAL TO BE HELD ON OCTOBER 12, 2008 FROM 1 P.M. UNTIL 6 P.M., THE COMMISSION TABLED THE REQUEST UNTIL THE CITY ADMINISTRATION CAN REVIEW IT FURTHER AND THEN TO BRING IT BACK TO A SPECIAL MEETING. AS TO AUTHORIZING THE BCCI TO MAKE TWO (2) PARTIAL PAYMENTS TO THE CITY AS IT RELATES TO POLICE AND FIRE DETAILS FOR THE CARIBBEAN CARNIVAL EVENT WITH A 15% DOWN PAYMENT NOW IN THE AMOUNT OF $4,982.00 AND TO PAY THE BALANCE DUE IN THE AMOUNT OF $28,234.00 15 DAYS PRIOR TO THE EVENT, INSTEAD OF THE REQUIRED PAYMENT IN FULL IN THE AMOUNT OF $33,217.00 AT LEAST 60 DAYS PRIOR TO THE EVENT THE COMMISSION APPROVAL THE REQUEST; (REQUESTED BY COMMISSIONER DALE V.C. HOLNESS).
BUSINESS/ NEIGHBORHOOD ENRICHMENT
4. RESOLUTION NO. 08R-07-167: APPROVED A RESOLUTION APPROVING THE 2008/2009 SHIP BUDGET IN THE AMOUNT OF $567,130.00.
5. RESOLUTION NO. 08R-07-168: APPROVED A RESOLUTION APPROVING THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL'S COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT (CDBG) ONE YEAR ACTION PLAN FOR FISCAL YEAR 2009; BUDGETING $807,337.00 IN CDBG FUNDS TO VARIOUS PROJECTS THAT WILL BENEFIT LOW AND MODERATE INCOME RESIDENTS OF THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL.
6. RESOLUTION NO. 08R-07-169: APPROVED A RESOLUTION APPROVING AND ADOPTING THE AMENDMENT TO THE LOCAL HOUSING ASSISTANCE PLAN (LHAP) FOR THE STATE HOUSING INITIATIVE PROGRAM (SHIP) TO INCREASE THE AMOUNT FOR THE PURCHASE ASSISTANCE PROGRAM FROM $10,000.00 TO $20,000.00 AND TO INCREASE THE AMOUNT FOR THE MINOR HOME REPAIR AND DISASTER MITIGATION AND RECOVERY PROGRAMS FROM $15,000.00 TO $20,000.00.
PARKS AND LEISURE SERVICES
7. RESOLUTION NO. 08R-07-170: APPROVED A RESOLUTION APPROVING THE PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL AND RITA BOURNE TO INCREASE THE NUMBER OF SWIM INSTRUCTORS SERVING THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL WHICH WILL INCREASE REVENUE FOR THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL WITHOUT THE COST OF ADDITIONAL EMPLOYEES.
POLICE DEPARTMENT
8. RESOLUTION NO. 08R-07-171: APPROVED A RESOLUTION APPROVING THE DONATION OF FUNDS IN THE AMOUNT OF $2,800.00 FROM THE STATE LOCAL LAW ENFORCEMENT TRUST FUND (LETF) TO VARIOUS NEIGHBORHOOD HOMEOWNERS’ ASSOCIATIONS TO SUPPORT DRUG TREATMENT, DRUG EDUCATION OR DRUG PREVENTION, CRIME PREVENTION, SAFE NEIGHBORHOOD, OR SCHOOL RESOURCE OFFICER PROGRAMS IN ACCORDANCE WITH STATE GUIDELINES.
9. RESOLUTION NO. 08R-07-172: APPROVED A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL APPROVING THE DONATION IN THE AMOUNT OF $5,000.00 FROM THE POLICE DEPARTMENT FEDERAL FORFEITURE FUND TO THE FAMILY LITERACY & LIFESKILLS PROGRAM THROUGH MATTOD & ASSOCIATES FOR USE IN CONNECTION WITH THE DRIFTWOOD TERRACE APARTMENTS GED PROGRAM.
10. RESOLUTION NO. 08R-07-173: APPROVED A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL ACCEPTING THE BUREAU OF JUSTICE ASSISTANCE, FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF LAW ENFORCEMENT EDWARD BYRNE MEMORIAL JUSTICE ASSISTANCE GRANT (JAG) FOR FISCAL YEAR 2007 IN THE AMOUNT OF $50,333.00; ACKNOWLEDGING THAT NO MATCHING FUNDS ARE REQUIRED; AUTHORIZING THE APPROPRIATION OF THOSE FUNDS TO INDIVIDUAL REVENUE AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNTS AS REQUESTED.
QUASI JUDICIAL - FIRST READING:
11. RESOLUTION NO. 08R-07-174: APPROVED A RESOLUTION GRANTING TO RAISING INDIVIDUAL STUDENT EXCELLENCE (RISE) EDUCATION SCHOOLS, INC. A SPECIAL EXCEPTION USE DEVELOPMENT ORDER, SUBJECT TO CONDITIONS, TO ALLOW A CHARTER ELEMENTARY SCHOOL (GRADES K THROUGH 5TH) WITH TRANSPORTATION SERVICES AND AFTERSCHOOL CHILD CARE SERVICES TO SHARE SPACE WITH SMART SCHOOL, INC, A CHARTER MIDDLE SCHOOL AT 3698 N.W. 15TH STREET, LAUDERHILL, FLORIDA BY A 4-1 VOTE. COMMISSION BENSON VOTING AGAINST IT.
Monday, July 14, 2008
Activities at Sadkin Center
Sadkin Center, located at 1176 NW 42nd Way, has numerous activities for active adults to participate in. The following is a list of those activities:
Billiards - M-F 8am to 9pm, Free
Bingo - Wednesday 11am to 1:45pm, $6/10
Art Class - Thursday 10am to 10:30am, Free
Beading Class - Wednesday 10am to 10:45am, Free
Current Events - M-F 10am to 11 am, Free
Dominoes - M-F 9am to 3 pm, Free
Art Therapy - Monday 10am to 11 am, Free
Fitness Class, Tuesday & Thursday, 9am to 10 am, Free
Game time - M-F 8am to 11:30 am, Free
Lunch Program - M-F 11am, Donations
Nautilus, M-F 8am to noon, Free
Socialization - M-F 8am to 12:30pm, Free
Movies & Popcorn - Friday 10am to noon, Free
S.H.I.N.E., By Appointment Only call 800-963-5337 - 9:30am to noon, Free
Upcoming Special Events:
**** Wednesday July 23 at 10:30 am Free FTRI Telephones to help you "hear better" on the phone. Defective FTRI units will be exchanged for working units for free also. One telephone/person. Call Terry Johnson at 954-321-2450
**** Book Review Thursdays - July 24, August 21 & September 25 at 10 am
**** Sea Escape Boat Ride, Thursday, September 11, 8am to 4:30pm, $30.95
Billiards - M-F 8am to 9pm, Free
Bingo - Wednesday 11am to 1:45pm, $6/10
Art Class - Thursday 10am to 10:30am, Free
Beading Class - Wednesday 10am to 10:45am, Free
Current Events - M-F 10am to 11 am, Free
Dominoes - M-F 9am to 3 pm, Free
Art Therapy - Monday 10am to 11 am, Free
Fitness Class, Tuesday & Thursday, 9am to 10 am, Free
Game time - M-F 8am to 11:30 am, Free
Lunch Program - M-F 11am, Donations
Nautilus, M-F 8am to noon, Free
Socialization - M-F 8am to 12:30pm, Free
Movies & Popcorn - Friday 10am to noon, Free
S.H.I.N.E., By Appointment Only call 800-963-5337 - 9:30am to noon, Free
Upcoming Special Events:
**** Wednesday July 23 at 10:30 am Free FTRI Telephones to help you "hear better" on the phone. Defective FTRI units will be exchanged for working units for free also. One telephone/person. Call Terry Johnson at 954-321-2450
**** Book Review Thursdays - July 24, August 21 & September 25 at 10 am
**** Sea Escape Boat Ride, Thursday, September 11, 8am to 4:30pm, $30.95
Saturday, July 12, 2008
Thursday, July 10, 2008
U.S. Representative Alcee L. Hastings Announces $677,000 Federal Grant for U.S. 441/State Road 7 Interchange in Lauderhill
U.S. Representative Alcee L. Hastings (D-Miramar) announced today that the U.S. Department of Transportation is awarding a $676,935 grant for the U.S. 441/State Road 7 Interchange at 11th Street in Lauderhill. The funding, which will help increase access to the new Central Broward Regional Park, including the Park’s cricket fields, regional library, and performing arts center, was secured by Representative Hastings in the Fiscal Year 2008 Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development Appropriations bill.
“This grant supports the City of Lauderhill’s efforts to develop and grow while placing a special emphasis on the Regional Park and all that it offers Broward residents,” said Representative Hastings. “This interchange project is part of a larger county-wide revitalization of the U.S. 441/State Road 7 corridor on which I have been working tirelessly for years. I am so pleased that the federal government is making this necessary investment along the corridor encouraging continued growth to meet the needs of our community.”
“The interchange improvements at U.S. 441/State Road 7 are vital to the economic and cultural development of Central Broward County,” said Lauderhill Mayor Richard Kaplan. “We are grateful our Congressman Alcee Hastings has made this possible.”
“I am excited about the opportunity this affords the State Road 7 corridor and thank Congressman Hastings for obtaining the federal funds,” added Lauderhill Vice-Mayor Margaret Bates.
Representative Hastings has made improving the U.S. 441/State Road 7 corridor a top priority. In 2005, he was successful in securing federal authorization for improved mass transit along the road which made Broward County eligible for millions in federal funding to make improvements along the road. He also secured $300,000 in the House of Representatives in Fiscal Year 2007 for the interchange, though the funding was lost when Senate Republicans blocked it from becoming law.
“This grant supports the City of Lauderhill’s efforts to develop and grow while placing a special emphasis on the Regional Park and all that it offers Broward residents,” said Representative Hastings. “This interchange project is part of a larger county-wide revitalization of the U.S. 441/State Road 7 corridor on which I have been working tirelessly for years. I am so pleased that the federal government is making this necessary investment along the corridor encouraging continued growth to meet the needs of our community.”
“The interchange improvements at U.S. 441/State Road 7 are vital to the economic and cultural development of Central Broward County,” said Lauderhill Mayor Richard Kaplan. “We are grateful our Congressman Alcee Hastings has made this possible.”
“I am excited about the opportunity this affords the State Road 7 corridor and thank Congressman Hastings for obtaining the federal funds,” added Lauderhill Vice-Mayor Margaret Bates.
Representative Hastings has made improving the U.S. 441/State Road 7 corridor a top priority. In 2005, he was successful in securing federal authorization for improved mass transit along the road which made Broward County eligible for millions in federal funding to make improvements along the road. He also secured $300,000 in the House of Representatives in Fiscal Year 2007 for the interchange, though the funding was lost when Senate Republicans blocked it from becoming law.
Tuesday, July 08, 2008
Federal Update Affecting Cities
Senate Stalled, Not Deadlocked, on Housing Bill
The Housing and Economic Recovery Act, H.R. 3221, a landmark federal housing reform and foreclosure prevention bill, was on track to pass the Senate by a veto-proof margin last week. Consideration came to an abrupt halt after a dispute on an amendment offered by Senator John Ensign (R-NV) that would extend several energy tax breaks.
Underlying the dispute is the fact that House and Senate leaders are still negotiating how to pay for the bill. Unlike the Senate, the House pay-go rules require that new non-emergency spending not add to the federal deficit. The Ensign amendment, which contains no offsets, would likely fail the pay-go rules and could ultimately doom the entire bill.
In addition to Sen. Ensign’s amendment, another pay-go issue to be addressed is the one-time allocation of nearly $4 billion in additional Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds to cities and states to help stabilize neighborhoods affected by high foreclosure rates. Although the CDBG funding under the bill contains no offsets, the Senate has designated these funds as “emergency spending,” so no off-set is required. However, it isn’t clear if a majority of the House members will accept the “emergency spending” designation, particularly the fiscally conservative “Blue-Dog” Democrats who are organized around the principal of fiscal discipline.
House Financial Services Chairman Barney Frank (D-MA) has stated he would not object to eliminating the CDBG funding if keeping it in jeopardizes passage of the overall bill. NLC and other local government and housing groups are strongly urging House and Senate members to retain the CDBG funding in the bill and are lobbying Blue-Dog Democrats for their support. A list of Blue-Dog Democrats can be found at: www.house.gov/ross/BlueDogs/. The Senate is expected to resume action on the bill next week.
Work on Spending Bills Gets Underway
Before returning home for the July Fourth recess, House and Senate committees began action on the FY 2009 spending bills. While Congress is in the early stages of the appropriations process that will fund federal programs for FY 2009 and may not complete the process until after a new President is in office, funding recommendations emerging from Senate and House appropriations committee are, so far, generally favorable for federal programs important to cities and towns. The process resumes when Congress returns to the Washington the week of June 7th. We are a long way from the finish line, but the following are our general observations of committee work to date on programs important to cities and towns:
Crime Prevention Programs
House and Senate appropriators are rejecting the President’s proposed $1 billion cuts in funding for local crime prevention and law enforcement activities, including the elimination of the Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) program and the consolidation of virtually all federal public safety and crime prevention grant programs important to local governments.
Housing and Community Revitalization Programs
The House Appropriations Subcommittee on Transportation and Housing and Urban Development is recommending an allocation of $66.7 billion for transportation programs and $41.5 billion for housing programs, rejecting the majority of the Administration’s proposed cuts in the programs (including CDBG) and reflecting the impact of the skyrocketing home mortgage defaults by shifting priorities to affordable rental housing programs. The Subcommittee has not addressed the anticipated shortfall in the Highway Trust Fund.
Energy Programs
The House Appropriations Committee has approved funding for energy programs, including an initial commitment of $295 million to support the startup of the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant program, an increase in renewable energy program and rejected elimination of the weatherization assistance program.
Environmental Programs
The House Appropriations Subcommittee on Interior, Environment and Related Agencies rejected proposed cuts in programs important to cities and towns by keeping most programs at current levels and increasing funding for the Clean Water State Revolving Fund.
Homeland Security Programs
The House and Senate Appropriations Committees both rejected the cuts for state and local homeland security grants recommended by the President.
Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education Programs
The Senate Appropriations Committee and the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health, Human Services and Education are recommending funding increase es in many of the programs that are important to cities in a wide range of human services, education and workforce programs.
Bill Would Require Uniform Treatment of Municipal, Corporate Bonds
House Financial Services Chair Barney Frank (D-MA) and House Ways and Means Subcommittee Chair Richard Neal (D-MA) have introduced legislation to require rating agencies to provide equal treatment for municipal bonds. The Municipal Bond Fairness Act, H.R. 6308, which NLC supports, will eliminate the ability of the rating agencies to use separate standards for municipal bonds and other bonds. The practice of using a separate scale for corporate bonds and municipal bonds that the industry has employed for many years has in many cases caused high quality general obligation bonds to be rated lower than comparable corporate bonds. This legislation would eliminate that unfair situation by requiring those credit rating agencies that choose to seek designation as a nationally recognized statistical rating organization (NRSRO) to use rating symbols consistently for every security to which they are assigned. Although it has been introduced and may get a hearing, the legislation is unlikely to get floor action this year.
House Reauthorizes Byrne Justice Assistance Grant Program
On June 25, the House of Representatives voted 406-11 in support of H.R. 3546, which reauthorizes (but does not appropriate money for) the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program (Byrne JAG). The reauthorization bill provides up to $1.1 billion per year through 2012 for funding local crime prevention, drug task force, and anti-gang initiatives. The House bill is identical to the version the Senate passed by unanimous consent last year.
The President has called for the elimination of the program, but has not indicated whether he will sign or veto the bill.
COURTS
Sixth Circuit Rules Against Local Governments
As reported last week, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 6th Circuit denied our request for relief from a federal rule that preempts local government control in the video franchising process. Instead, the Court upheld an FCC rule issued in March 2007 that severely restricts the ability of local governments to protect their citizens, rights of way, community channels and public safety networks in the franchise process.
A coalition of other national groups argued that the FCC did not have statutory authority over the local franchise process. The 6th Circuit three-judge panel unanimously disagreed and determined that the FCC has authority over the state and local regulators who authorize new video franchises in their markets. The judges also ruled that the FCC “did not engage in arbitrary and capricious rulemaking” when it adopted the rule, which, among other things, imposed a “shot-clock” of 90 or 180 days by which local franchise authorities must act on new applications for cable franchises regardless of local circumstances and limited local governments’ ability to ensure that all of their citizens benefit from competition and advances in telecommunications technology – not just a chosen few.
In a response to the decision, FCC Chairman Kevin Martin said the court “recognized and unanimously supported the Commission’s authority.” Commissioner Jonathan Adelstein, who voted against the rule, said in a written statement that “the FCC apparently has more expansive authority than many believed. The good news is that we can use our authority to promote competitive video offerings, while also protecting consumers and public access.”
Coalition members, which include NLC, NATOA, USCM, and NACo, are reviewing the case and discussing our options.
The Housing and Economic Recovery Act, H.R. 3221, a landmark federal housing reform and foreclosure prevention bill, was on track to pass the Senate by a veto-proof margin last week. Consideration came to an abrupt halt after a dispute on an amendment offered by Senator John Ensign (R-NV) that would extend several energy tax breaks.
Underlying the dispute is the fact that House and Senate leaders are still negotiating how to pay for the bill. Unlike the Senate, the House pay-go rules require that new non-emergency spending not add to the federal deficit. The Ensign amendment, which contains no offsets, would likely fail the pay-go rules and could ultimately doom the entire bill.
In addition to Sen. Ensign’s amendment, another pay-go issue to be addressed is the one-time allocation of nearly $4 billion in additional Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds to cities and states to help stabilize neighborhoods affected by high foreclosure rates. Although the CDBG funding under the bill contains no offsets, the Senate has designated these funds as “emergency spending,” so no off-set is required. However, it isn’t clear if a majority of the House members will accept the “emergency spending” designation, particularly the fiscally conservative “Blue-Dog” Democrats who are organized around the principal of fiscal discipline.
House Financial Services Chairman Barney Frank (D-MA) has stated he would not object to eliminating the CDBG funding if keeping it in jeopardizes passage of the overall bill. NLC and other local government and housing groups are strongly urging House and Senate members to retain the CDBG funding in the bill and are lobbying Blue-Dog Democrats for their support. A list of Blue-Dog Democrats can be found at: www.house.gov/ross/BlueDogs/. The Senate is expected to resume action on the bill next week.
Work on Spending Bills Gets Underway
Before returning home for the July Fourth recess, House and Senate committees began action on the FY 2009 spending bills. While Congress is in the early stages of the appropriations process that will fund federal programs for FY 2009 and may not complete the process until after a new President is in office, funding recommendations emerging from Senate and House appropriations committee are, so far, generally favorable for federal programs important to cities and towns. The process resumes when Congress returns to the Washington the week of June 7th. We are a long way from the finish line, but the following are our general observations of committee work to date on programs important to cities and towns:
Crime Prevention Programs
House and Senate appropriators are rejecting the President’s proposed $1 billion cuts in funding for local crime prevention and law enforcement activities, including the elimination of the Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) program and the consolidation of virtually all federal public safety and crime prevention grant programs important to local governments.
Housing and Community Revitalization Programs
The House Appropriations Subcommittee on Transportation and Housing and Urban Development is recommending an allocation of $66.7 billion for transportation programs and $41.5 billion for housing programs, rejecting the majority of the Administration’s proposed cuts in the programs (including CDBG) and reflecting the impact of the skyrocketing home mortgage defaults by shifting priorities to affordable rental housing programs. The Subcommittee has not addressed the anticipated shortfall in the Highway Trust Fund.
Energy Programs
The House Appropriations Committee has approved funding for energy programs, including an initial commitment of $295 million to support the startup of the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant program, an increase in renewable energy program and rejected elimination of the weatherization assistance program.
Environmental Programs
The House Appropriations Subcommittee on Interior, Environment and Related Agencies rejected proposed cuts in programs important to cities and towns by keeping most programs at current levels and increasing funding for the Clean Water State Revolving Fund.
Homeland Security Programs
The House and Senate Appropriations Committees both rejected the cuts for state and local homeland security grants recommended by the President.
Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education Programs
The Senate Appropriations Committee and the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health, Human Services and Education are recommending funding increase es in many of the programs that are important to cities in a wide range of human services, education and workforce programs.
Bill Would Require Uniform Treatment of Municipal, Corporate Bonds
House Financial Services Chair Barney Frank (D-MA) and House Ways and Means Subcommittee Chair Richard Neal (D-MA) have introduced legislation to require rating agencies to provide equal treatment for municipal bonds. The Municipal Bond Fairness Act, H.R. 6308, which NLC supports, will eliminate the ability of the rating agencies to use separate standards for municipal bonds and other bonds. The practice of using a separate scale for corporate bonds and municipal bonds that the industry has employed for many years has in many cases caused high quality general obligation bonds to be rated lower than comparable corporate bonds. This legislation would eliminate that unfair situation by requiring those credit rating agencies that choose to seek designation as a nationally recognized statistical rating organization (NRSRO) to use rating symbols consistently for every security to which they are assigned. Although it has been introduced and may get a hearing, the legislation is unlikely to get floor action this year.
House Reauthorizes Byrne Justice Assistance Grant Program
On June 25, the House of Representatives voted 406-11 in support of H.R. 3546, which reauthorizes (but does not appropriate money for) the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program (Byrne JAG). The reauthorization bill provides up to $1.1 billion per year through 2012 for funding local crime prevention, drug task force, and anti-gang initiatives. The House bill is identical to the version the Senate passed by unanimous consent last year.
The President has called for the elimination of the program, but has not indicated whether he will sign or veto the bill.
COURTS
Sixth Circuit Rules Against Local Governments
As reported last week, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 6th Circuit denied our request for relief from a federal rule that preempts local government control in the video franchising process. Instead, the Court upheld an FCC rule issued in March 2007 that severely restricts the ability of local governments to protect their citizens, rights of way, community channels and public safety networks in the franchise process.
A coalition of other national groups argued that the FCC did not have statutory authority over the local franchise process. The 6th Circuit three-judge panel unanimously disagreed and determined that the FCC has authority over the state and local regulators who authorize new video franchises in their markets. The judges also ruled that the FCC “did not engage in arbitrary and capricious rulemaking” when it adopted the rule, which, among other things, imposed a “shot-clock” of 90 or 180 days by which local franchise authorities must act on new applications for cable franchises regardless of local circumstances and limited local governments’ ability to ensure that all of their citizens benefit from competition and advances in telecommunications technology – not just a chosen few.
In a response to the decision, FCC Chairman Kevin Martin said the court “recognized and unanimously supported the Commission’s authority.” Commissioner Jonathan Adelstein, who voted against the rule, said in a written statement that “the FCC apparently has more expansive authority than many believed. The good news is that we can use our authority to promote competitive video offerings, while also protecting consumers and public access.”
Coalition members, which include NLC, NATOA, USCM, and NACo, are reviewing the case and discussing our options.
Sunday, July 06, 2008
Notes of the Regular Commission Meetings of June 30
On June 30, the City Commission met in a Regular Meeting, and the following are some points of interests:
ORDINANCES-FIRST READING:
1. ORDINANCE NO. 080-06-125: APPROVED AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL CALLING FOR A REFERENDUM REGARDING THE PROPOSED AMENDMENT TO THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL CHARTER, TO CREATE SECTION 1.04, CITIZENS’ BILL OF RIGHTS, TO APPEAR ON THE GENERAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION BALLOT NOVEMBER 4. After an amendment was passed (3 to 2) to the item, clarifying where the rights come from, Florida Statute or City Charter, passed 5-0.
ORDINANCES-SECOND READING:
2. ORDINANCE NO. 08O-06-123: APPROVED AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL CALLING FOR A REFERENDUM REGARDING THE PROPOSED AMENDMENT TO THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL CHARTER TO ELIMINATE THE POSITION OF DEPUTY VICE MAYOR TO APPEAR ON THE GENERAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION BALLOT NOVEMBER 4, 2008. (Passed 4-1, Mayor Kaplan voting against).
3. ORDINANCE NO 08O-06-124: APPROVED AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL CALLING FOR A REFERENDUM REGARDING THE PROPOSED AMENDMENT TO THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL CHARTER TO APPEAR ON THE GENERAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION BALLOT NOVEMBER 4, 2008, EFFECTIVE NOVEMBER 2006, PROVIDING TERM LIMITS FOR CITY COMMISSIONERS TO SERVE NO MORE THAN THREE (3) CONSECUTIVE FOUR-YEAR TERMS.
4. ORDINANCE NO. 08O-06-126: APPROVED AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL CALLING FOR A REFERENDUM REGARDING THE PROPOSED AMENDMENT TO THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL CHARTER, ADDING A PROVISION REGARDING PROCEDURES FOR A PUBLIC REPRIMAND WHICH WILL REQUIRE A UNANIMOUS VOTE OF THE REMAINING MEMBERS OF THE CITY COMMISSION WHEN A COMMISSIONER INTERFERES WITH THE ADMINISTRATION, OR AS OTHERWISE PRESCRIBED BY LAW.
5. ORDINANCE NO. 08O-06-127: APPROVED AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL CALLING FOR A REFERENDUM REGARDING THE PROPOSED AMENDMENT TO THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL CHARTER AMENDING THE PROCEDURE FOR DETERMINING WHEN TO HOLD THE FIRST MEETING OF THE NEW CITY COMMISSION TO BE 14 DAYS AFTER THE ELECTION (so as to provide sufficient time for the Supervisor of Election to certify the election).
ORDINANCES-THIRD READING:
6. ORDINANCE NO. 08O-02-105: APPROVED AN ORDINANCE TO ADD LARGE FAMILY DAY CARE HOME, HOWEVER PROHIBITING SUCH USE UNLESS VESTED BEFORE FEBRUARY 15TH, 2008; ADDING PROVISIONS REGARDING PERSONNEL, PRE-REQUISITES, GROUPS, AND OTHER REQUIREMENTS.
RESOLUTIONS
COMMISSION
7. RESOLUTION NO. 08R-06-163: APPROVED A RESOLUTION APPROVING ESTABLISHING A SISTER CITY RELATIONSHIP WITH PETIONVILLE, HAITI, TO DEVELOP BUSINESS, ECONOMIC AND CULTURAL EXCHANGES FOR EACH OTHERS BENEFIT. (REQUESTED BY COMMISSION HOLNESS).
8. RESOLUTION NO. 08R-06-149: APPROVED A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL, FLORIDA RECOGNIZING THE NEED FOR A COLLABORATIVE, MULTI-JURISDICTIONAL APPROACH TO ADDRESS COUNTY-WIDE WATER RESOURCES NEEDS; ESTABLISHING THE BROWARD WATER RESOURCES TASK FORCE COMPOSED OF ELECTED COUNTY AND CITY COMMISSIONERS, AND OFFICIALS REPRESENTING THE SOUTH FLORIDA WATER MANAGEMENT DISTRICT GOVERNING BOARD, SPECIAL DISTRICTS AND WATER CONTROL DISTRICTS; AUTHORIZING THE DESIGNATION OF A TECHNICAL/PROFESSIONAL STAFF WORKGROUP TO ADVISE THE TASK FORCE; PROVIDING FOR DUTIES OF THE TASK FORCE; PROVIDING FOR MEETINGS OF THE TASK FORCE AND TECHNICAL/PROFESSIONAL STAFF WORKGROUP; PROVIDING FOR STAFF SUPPORT(REQUESTED BY MAYOR RICHARD J. KAPLAN).
9. RESOLUTION NO. 08R-06-150: APPROVED A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL EXPRESSING SUPPORT FOR THE DEVELOPMENT AND OPERATION OF THE DR. BOBBY JONES COMPLEX FOR EDUCATION AND PRESERVATION IN THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL (REQUESTED BY VICE MAYOR M. MARGARET BATES AND COMMISSIONER HAYWARD J. BENSON, JR.).
D.E.E.S.
10. RESOLUTION NO. 08R-06-157: APPROVED A RESOLUTION APPROVING THE AWARD OF BID TO COASTAL CONTRACTING & DEVELOPMENT, INC. IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $190,000.00 FOR THE DEVELOPMENT AND DESIGN PLANS AND CONSTRUCTION OF FOUR (4) BUS SHELTERS ON STATE ROAD 7/U.S. 411 INCLUDING SITE PLAN AND ARCHITECTURAL APPROVAL, EARTHWORK, FOUNDATION, SHELTER STRUCTURE, ROOFING, ARCHITECTURAL FEATURES, SOLAR LIGHTING AND BENCHES, AMONG OTHER IMPROVEMENTS.
POLICE
11. RESOLUTION NO. 08R-06-158: APPROVED A RESOLUTION APPROVING THE EXPENDITURE OF FUNDS FROM THE POLICE DEPARTMENT FEDERAL FORFEITURE FUND IN THE AMOUNT OF $29,380.00 TO BE USED IN CONJUNCTION WITH THE PREVIOUSLY APPROVED GRANT FOR THE PURCHASE OF A MOBILE OPEN AREA SURVEILLANCE TOWER (SKY WATCH) FROM ICX HEIGHTS CORPORATION.
12. RESOLUTION NO. 08R-06-160: APPROVED A RESOLUTION APPROVING THE DONATION OF FUNDS IN THE AMOUNT OF $2,800.00 FROM THE STATE LOCAL LAW ENFORCEMENT TRUST FUND (LETF) TO VARIOUS NEIGHBORHOOD HOMEOWNERS’ ASSOCIATIONS TO SUPPORT DRUG TREATMENT, DRUG EDUCATION OR DRUG PREVENTION, CRIME PREVENTION, SAFE NEIGHBORHOOD, OR SCHOOL RESOURCE OFFICER PROGRAMS IN ACCORDANCE WITH STATE GUIDELINES.
QUASI-JUDICIAL MATTERS:
QUASI-JUDICIAL MATTERS, FIRST READING:
13. RESOLUTION NO. 08R-06-161: APPROVED A RESOLUTION APPROVING THE SPECIAL EXCEPTION USE DEVELOPMENT ORDER ACCELERATED LEARNING SOLUTIONS, INC., A WHOLLY-OWNED SUBSIDIARY OF COMMUNITY EDUCATION PARTNERS, INC., TO ALLOW A CHARTER SECONDARY SCHOOL ON PROPERTY MORE COMMONLY KNOWN AS THE AAA PROPERTY, LOCATED AT 4800 NORTH UNIVERSITY DRIVE, LAUDERHILL, FLORIDA.
OLD BUSINESS:
A. RESOLUTION NO. 08R-05-120: APPROVED A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL APPOINTING THE REMAINING MEMBERS TO THE LAUDERHILL LOCAL AFFORDABLE HOUSING ADVISORY COMMITTEE AS REQUIRED BY FLORIDA STATUTES, SECTION 420.9076.
B. RESOLUTION NO. 08R-06-137: APPROVED A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL APPOINTING AN ADDITIONAL MEMBER TO THE MASTER PLAN TASK FORCE FOR THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL.
NEW BUSINESS
A. DISCUSSION/UPDATE OF STATUS OF PINE ISLAND ROAD - The City and County Commmissioner Ilene Lieberman have worked out terms to resolve difference on the construction of the wall, and are proceeding forward to finalize them.
ORDINANCES-FIRST READING:
1. ORDINANCE NO. 080-06-125: APPROVED AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL CALLING FOR A REFERENDUM REGARDING THE PROPOSED AMENDMENT TO THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL CHARTER, TO CREATE SECTION 1.04, CITIZENS’ BILL OF RIGHTS, TO APPEAR ON THE GENERAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION BALLOT NOVEMBER 4. After an amendment was passed (3 to 2) to the item, clarifying where the rights come from, Florida Statute or City Charter, passed 5-0.
ORDINANCES-SECOND READING:
2. ORDINANCE NO. 08O-06-123: APPROVED AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL CALLING FOR A REFERENDUM REGARDING THE PROPOSED AMENDMENT TO THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL CHARTER TO ELIMINATE THE POSITION OF DEPUTY VICE MAYOR TO APPEAR ON THE GENERAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION BALLOT NOVEMBER 4, 2008. (Passed 4-1, Mayor Kaplan voting against).
3. ORDINANCE NO 08O-06-124: APPROVED AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL CALLING FOR A REFERENDUM REGARDING THE PROPOSED AMENDMENT TO THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL CHARTER TO APPEAR ON THE GENERAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION BALLOT NOVEMBER 4, 2008, EFFECTIVE NOVEMBER 2006, PROVIDING TERM LIMITS FOR CITY COMMISSIONERS TO SERVE NO MORE THAN THREE (3) CONSECUTIVE FOUR-YEAR TERMS.
4. ORDINANCE NO. 08O-06-126: APPROVED AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL CALLING FOR A REFERENDUM REGARDING THE PROPOSED AMENDMENT TO THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL CHARTER, ADDING A PROVISION REGARDING PROCEDURES FOR A PUBLIC REPRIMAND WHICH WILL REQUIRE A UNANIMOUS VOTE OF THE REMAINING MEMBERS OF THE CITY COMMISSION WHEN A COMMISSIONER INTERFERES WITH THE ADMINISTRATION, OR AS OTHERWISE PRESCRIBED BY LAW.
5. ORDINANCE NO. 08O-06-127: APPROVED AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL CALLING FOR A REFERENDUM REGARDING THE PROPOSED AMENDMENT TO THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL CHARTER AMENDING THE PROCEDURE FOR DETERMINING WHEN TO HOLD THE FIRST MEETING OF THE NEW CITY COMMISSION TO BE 14 DAYS AFTER THE ELECTION (so as to provide sufficient time for the Supervisor of Election to certify the election).
ORDINANCES-THIRD READING:
6. ORDINANCE NO. 08O-02-105: APPROVED AN ORDINANCE TO ADD LARGE FAMILY DAY CARE HOME, HOWEVER PROHIBITING SUCH USE UNLESS VESTED BEFORE FEBRUARY 15TH, 2008; ADDING PROVISIONS REGARDING PERSONNEL, PRE-REQUISITES, GROUPS, AND OTHER REQUIREMENTS.
RESOLUTIONS
COMMISSION
7. RESOLUTION NO. 08R-06-163: APPROVED A RESOLUTION APPROVING ESTABLISHING A SISTER CITY RELATIONSHIP WITH PETIONVILLE, HAITI, TO DEVELOP BUSINESS, ECONOMIC AND CULTURAL EXCHANGES FOR EACH OTHERS BENEFIT. (REQUESTED BY COMMISSION HOLNESS).
8. RESOLUTION NO. 08R-06-149: APPROVED A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL, FLORIDA RECOGNIZING THE NEED FOR A COLLABORATIVE, MULTI-JURISDICTIONAL APPROACH TO ADDRESS COUNTY-WIDE WATER RESOURCES NEEDS; ESTABLISHING THE BROWARD WATER RESOURCES TASK FORCE COMPOSED OF ELECTED COUNTY AND CITY COMMISSIONERS, AND OFFICIALS REPRESENTING THE SOUTH FLORIDA WATER MANAGEMENT DISTRICT GOVERNING BOARD, SPECIAL DISTRICTS AND WATER CONTROL DISTRICTS; AUTHORIZING THE DESIGNATION OF A TECHNICAL/PROFESSIONAL STAFF WORKGROUP TO ADVISE THE TASK FORCE; PROVIDING FOR DUTIES OF THE TASK FORCE; PROVIDING FOR MEETINGS OF THE TASK FORCE AND TECHNICAL/PROFESSIONAL STAFF WORKGROUP; PROVIDING FOR STAFF SUPPORT(REQUESTED BY MAYOR RICHARD J. KAPLAN).
9. RESOLUTION NO. 08R-06-150: APPROVED A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL EXPRESSING SUPPORT FOR THE DEVELOPMENT AND OPERATION OF THE DR. BOBBY JONES COMPLEX FOR EDUCATION AND PRESERVATION IN THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL (REQUESTED BY VICE MAYOR M. MARGARET BATES AND COMMISSIONER HAYWARD J. BENSON, JR.).
D.E.E.S.
10. RESOLUTION NO. 08R-06-157: APPROVED A RESOLUTION APPROVING THE AWARD OF BID TO COASTAL CONTRACTING & DEVELOPMENT, INC. IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $190,000.00 FOR THE DEVELOPMENT AND DESIGN PLANS AND CONSTRUCTION OF FOUR (4) BUS SHELTERS ON STATE ROAD 7/U.S. 411 INCLUDING SITE PLAN AND ARCHITECTURAL APPROVAL, EARTHWORK, FOUNDATION, SHELTER STRUCTURE, ROOFING, ARCHITECTURAL FEATURES, SOLAR LIGHTING AND BENCHES, AMONG OTHER IMPROVEMENTS.
POLICE
11. RESOLUTION NO. 08R-06-158: APPROVED A RESOLUTION APPROVING THE EXPENDITURE OF FUNDS FROM THE POLICE DEPARTMENT FEDERAL FORFEITURE FUND IN THE AMOUNT OF $29,380.00 TO BE USED IN CONJUNCTION WITH THE PREVIOUSLY APPROVED GRANT FOR THE PURCHASE OF A MOBILE OPEN AREA SURVEILLANCE TOWER (SKY WATCH) FROM ICX HEIGHTS CORPORATION.
12. RESOLUTION NO. 08R-06-160: APPROVED A RESOLUTION APPROVING THE DONATION OF FUNDS IN THE AMOUNT OF $2,800.00 FROM THE STATE LOCAL LAW ENFORCEMENT TRUST FUND (LETF) TO VARIOUS NEIGHBORHOOD HOMEOWNERS’ ASSOCIATIONS TO SUPPORT DRUG TREATMENT, DRUG EDUCATION OR DRUG PREVENTION, CRIME PREVENTION, SAFE NEIGHBORHOOD, OR SCHOOL RESOURCE OFFICER PROGRAMS IN ACCORDANCE WITH STATE GUIDELINES.
QUASI-JUDICIAL MATTERS:
QUASI-JUDICIAL MATTERS, FIRST READING:
13. RESOLUTION NO. 08R-06-161: APPROVED A RESOLUTION APPROVING THE SPECIAL EXCEPTION USE DEVELOPMENT ORDER ACCELERATED LEARNING SOLUTIONS, INC., A WHOLLY-OWNED SUBSIDIARY OF COMMUNITY EDUCATION PARTNERS, INC., TO ALLOW A CHARTER SECONDARY SCHOOL ON PROPERTY MORE COMMONLY KNOWN AS THE AAA PROPERTY, LOCATED AT 4800 NORTH UNIVERSITY DRIVE, LAUDERHILL, FLORIDA.
OLD BUSINESS:
A. RESOLUTION NO. 08R-05-120: APPROVED A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL APPOINTING THE REMAINING MEMBERS TO THE LAUDERHILL LOCAL AFFORDABLE HOUSING ADVISORY COMMITTEE AS REQUIRED BY FLORIDA STATUTES, SECTION 420.9076.
B. RESOLUTION NO. 08R-06-137: APPROVED A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL APPOINTING AN ADDITIONAL MEMBER TO THE MASTER PLAN TASK FORCE FOR THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL.
NEW BUSINESS
A. DISCUSSION/UPDATE OF STATUS OF PINE ISLAND ROAD - The City and County Commmissioner Ilene Lieberman have worked out terms to resolve difference on the construction of the wall, and are proceeding forward to finalize them.
Friday, July 04, 2008
Housing Stabilization Bill on Hold in Senate
Senate efforts have stalled to pass a landmark bill that would address the housing and mortgage foreclosure crisis and strengthen the economy by fostering stabilization of the housing market. The fate of H.R. 3221, the Housing and Economic Recovery Act of 2008, remains in limbo because of a dispute over an amendment that would extend a series of energy-related tax provisions.
The dispute is significant enough that passage of the massive housing package may not take place until after the upcoming July 4 recess. Sen. John Ensign (R-Nev.) is pushing to offer the energy provision and said he was willing to use all the procedural tools at his disposal to try to force a vote on his amendment. The provision has no offsets and Democratic leaders have indicated that they will not accept the amendment in its current form.
The Bill passed the House of Representatives in May and is trying to work through the Senate House conference committee to address a few remaining differences. Once agreed to by both houses, the bill can be sent to the President before the month-long August recess.
The bill, which has the bipartisan support of both Senate Banking Committee Chairman Christopher Dodd (D-Conn.) and Ranking Member Richard Shelby (R-Ala.), would give the Federal Housing Administration (FHA), Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac and the Federal Home Loan Banks much more active roles in helping families at risk of foreclosure.
The bill would authorize FHA to refinance up to $300 billion in distressed mortgage loans under a temporary “HOPE for Homeowners” program that would help an estimated 400,000 homeowners in danger of losing their homes by enabling them to refinance their mortgages into smaller, lower-interest conventional loans. In exchange for this assistance, homeowners under the program would be required to share any future appreciation in home value with FHA.
Lenders would also have to forgive a portion of the loan’s balance to qualify. In exchange, the lender holding the original mortgage would get a final payout guaranteed by FHA insurance regardless of the homeowner’s future ability to repay the refinanced loan.
The new program includes a number of conditions to ensure property speculators do not benefit, including a requirement that qualified homes must be owner-occupied.
The bill would also establish an Affordable Housing Trust Fund funded by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac as part of the affordable housing goals Congress set for the government-sponsored entities. The HOPE for Homeowners program would initially be financed by the Affordable Housing Trust Fund, after which the funds would go solely to the construction of new affordable housing.
Cities and states affected by high foreclosure rates would also get help to mitigate the negative effects of the foreclosure crisis on neighborhoods and municipal budgets.
The bill would make a one-time emergency allocation of nearly $4 billion in additional Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds to cities and states to help stabilize neighborhoods distressed by rising rates of vacant housing caused by foreclosure. These funds, which would go only to cities with very high foreclosure rates, would be in addition to the funding provided for CDBG formula grants under the normal appropriations process.
The bill would also give Federal Home Loan Banks new authority to guarantee tax-exempt municipal bonds as an alternative to traditional bond insurance, giving cities a new competitive financing option for community and economic development and infrastructure improvement projects. The President has objected to both provisions, and has warned that their inclusion could lead him veto the bill.
One troubling provision is that the bill would provide a temporary new standard deduction for homeowners who pay state and local property taxes, but do not itemize their income tax deductions on their federal returns. Unlike the House-passed bill, which provides an unconditional deduction, in the Senate version, homeowners would be ineligible for the deduction if the state or local jurisdiction raises property taxes. House Democratic staffers have indicated the House will likely insist on the unconditional deduction when House-Senate negotiations begin.
The dispute is significant enough that passage of the massive housing package may not take place until after the upcoming July 4 recess. Sen. John Ensign (R-Nev.) is pushing to offer the energy provision and said he was willing to use all the procedural tools at his disposal to try to force a vote on his amendment. The provision has no offsets and Democratic leaders have indicated that they will not accept the amendment in its current form.
The Bill passed the House of Representatives in May and is trying to work through the Senate House conference committee to address a few remaining differences. Once agreed to by both houses, the bill can be sent to the President before the month-long August recess.
The bill, which has the bipartisan support of both Senate Banking Committee Chairman Christopher Dodd (D-Conn.) and Ranking Member Richard Shelby (R-Ala.), would give the Federal Housing Administration (FHA), Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac and the Federal Home Loan Banks much more active roles in helping families at risk of foreclosure.
The bill would authorize FHA to refinance up to $300 billion in distressed mortgage loans under a temporary “HOPE for Homeowners” program that would help an estimated 400,000 homeowners in danger of losing their homes by enabling them to refinance their mortgages into smaller, lower-interest conventional loans. In exchange for this assistance, homeowners under the program would be required to share any future appreciation in home value with FHA.
Lenders would also have to forgive a portion of the loan’s balance to qualify. In exchange, the lender holding the original mortgage would get a final payout guaranteed by FHA insurance regardless of the homeowner’s future ability to repay the refinanced loan.
The new program includes a number of conditions to ensure property speculators do not benefit, including a requirement that qualified homes must be owner-occupied.
The bill would also establish an Affordable Housing Trust Fund funded by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac as part of the affordable housing goals Congress set for the government-sponsored entities. The HOPE for Homeowners program would initially be financed by the Affordable Housing Trust Fund, after which the funds would go solely to the construction of new affordable housing.
Cities and states affected by high foreclosure rates would also get help to mitigate the negative effects of the foreclosure crisis on neighborhoods and municipal budgets.
The bill would make a one-time emergency allocation of nearly $4 billion in additional Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds to cities and states to help stabilize neighborhoods distressed by rising rates of vacant housing caused by foreclosure. These funds, which would go only to cities with very high foreclosure rates, would be in addition to the funding provided for CDBG formula grants under the normal appropriations process.
The bill would also give Federal Home Loan Banks new authority to guarantee tax-exempt municipal bonds as an alternative to traditional bond insurance, giving cities a new competitive financing option for community and economic development and infrastructure improvement projects. The President has objected to both provisions, and has warned that their inclusion could lead him veto the bill.
One troubling provision is that the bill would provide a temporary new standard deduction for homeowners who pay state and local property taxes, but do not itemize their income tax deductions on their federal returns. Unlike the House-passed bill, which provides an unconditional deduction, in the Senate version, homeowners would be ineligible for the deduction if the state or local jurisdiction raises property taxes. House Democratic staffers have indicated the House will likely insist on the unconditional deduction when House-Senate negotiations begin.
Wednesday, July 02, 2008
July 4th Celebration
On Friday, July 4, the City of Lauderhill in conjunction with the Cricket Council USA, will hold the Freedom T20 Cricket Tournament. 20/20 Cricket will be played all day long with musical entertainment, and fireworks in the evening.
The Festivities are FREE to the public, though the county will charge a $1.50 as a park entry fee. For more information call 954-730-3000, or for details on the cricket matches call 561-361-1700.
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