Notes of the Commission Meeting of August 31

On August 31, the City Commission held a Regular Commission Meeting, and the following are notes of interest:


VI. PROCLAMATIONS:

A. A PROCLAMATION HONORING ANITA PLUMMER FOR VOLUNTEERING AT LAUDERHILL MIDDLE SCHOOL.

B. A PROCLAMATION HONORING BOBBY HENRY FOR VOLUNTEERING AT LAUDERHILL MIDDLE SCHOOL.


VII. PRESENTATIONS:

A. PRESENTATION RECOGNIZING THE CITY’S 50TH ANNIVERSARY SPONSORS.


ORDINANCES - PUBLIC HEARINGS --- SECOND READING:

1. Approved ORDINANCE NO. 09O-07-129: AMENDING THE CODE OF ORDINANCES TO CREATE A SECOND TIER FOR NEWLY HIRED POLICE OFFICERS; TO DEFINE THE NEWLY CREATED TIERS AND TO DEFINE EARNABLE COMPENSATION FOR TIER TWO MEMBERS; TO REQUIRE TWENTY-FIVE YEARS OF SERVICE FOR NORMAL RETIREMENT ELIGIBILITY OR THE ATTAINMENT OF AGE 55 AND 10 YEARS OF SERVICE UNDER TIER TWO; TO PROVIDE FOR 3% MULTIPLIER FOR A MAXIMUM BENEFIT OF 75% UNDER TIER TWO, AND ALLOWING TIER TWO MEMBERS TO PURCHASE AN INCREASE IN THEIR MULTIPLIER; ALLOW BUY-BACK FOR MILITARY OR PRIOR POLICE SERVICE; TO PROVIDE FOR A SEVEN YEAR VESTING PERIOD UNDER TIER TWO; TO PROVIDE THAT THE COLA ONLY APPLIES TO TIER ONE.

2. Approved ORDINANCE NO. 09O-07-130: AMENDING THE LAND DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS (LDR), ARTICLE IV., Development Review Requirements pertaining to public notice signs and their re-organization; requiring posted signs be professionally prepared by a reputable sign, printing or similar company.

3. Approved ORDINANCE NO. 09O-07-131: TO ALLOW A CULTURAL AND PERFORMING ARTS CENTER, LIBRARY, MUSEUM AND SIMILAR USES AS A PERMITTED USE; AND AMENDING PARAGRAPH D., SPECIAL EXCEPTION USES AND STRUCTURES, TO REPEAL CULTURAL ARTS CENTER AND LIBRARY AS A SPECIAL EXCEPTION USE.

4. Approved ORDINANCE NO. 09O-07-132: AMENDING THE LAND DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS pertaining to studio uses by adding definitions for ancillary support use, studio office use, studio operations, studio production/post-production use, studio property, studio use, and support use.

5. Approved ORDINANCE NO. 09O-07-133: ADDING CORRECTIONAL AND JUDICIAL FACILITIES AS A LAND USE CATEGORY AND BY ADDING AN ASTERISK IN THE COMMUNITY COMMERCIAL, GENERAL COMMERCIAL AND COMMUNITY FACILITY ZONING DISTRICTS; AMORTIZATION AND ALLOWING EXISTING CORRECTIONAL AND JUDICIAL FACILITY USES IN THE COMMUNITY COMMERCIAL, GENERAL COMMERCIAL ZONING AND COMMUNITY FACILITY DISTRICTS TO CONTINUE AS A LEGAL NONCONFORMING USE UNTIL AUGUST 31, 2015, ADDING LANGUAGE ALLOWING THE CITY TO CANCEL SUCH AUTHORITY EARLIER IF A VIOLATION OF THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS EXIST. The vote was 4 to 1 on first reading only.

6. Approved ORDINANCE NO. 09O-08-134: AN PROVIDING FOR THE ISSUANCE OF ITS $6,500,000.00 CITY OF LAUDERHILL, FLORIDA HALF-CENT SALES TAX REVENUE BONDS, SERIES 2009 AS ADDITIONAL BONDS UNDER ORDINANCE NO. 96-110 ENACTED ON APRIL 29, 1996 FOR THE PURPOSE OF FINANCING, INCLUDING THROUGH REIMBURSEMENT, THE COST OF ACQUISITION, CONSTRUCTION AND EQUIPPING OF ADDITIONS, EXTENSIONS, RENOVATIONS AND IMPROVEMENTS TO CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS INCLUDED IN THE CITY'S FIVE-YEAR CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PLAN AND PAYING COSTS OF ISSUANCE OF THE SERIES 2009 BONDS.


RESOLUTIONS

ADMINISTRATION

7. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-08-167: APPOINTING Darryl King, Esq. TO SERVE AS THE CODE ENFORCEMENT BOARD ATTORNEY FOR THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL PURSUANT TO SECTION 7½-24 OF THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL CODE OF ORDINANCES.


COMMISSION

8. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-08-171: PETITIONING THE PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION TO REQUIRE FLORIDA POWER & LIGHT, CO. TO PROVIDE A RATE REDUCTION ON STREET LIGHTS WHEN LIGHT EMITTING DIODES (LED) LIGHTS AND INDUCTION LIGHTING ARE USED (REQUESTED BY MAYOR RICHARD J. KAPLAN).

9. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-08-196: Requesting the Florida Department of Revenue to immediately repair the traffic light mast arms located in Lauderhill, as well as numerous other cities, which are peeling, extremely unsightly, and in a severe state of disrepair thus creating the appearnace of slum and blight.


DEES

REMOVE RESOLUTION NO. 09R-08-162 FROM TABLE

10. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-08-162: APPROVING THE WAIVER OF COMPETITIVE BIDDING; APPROVING THE AWARD OF CONTRACT IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $510,752.20 TO M. VILA & ASSOCIATES, INC., FOR CONSTRUCTION OF THE BUFFER WALL ALONG PINE ISLAND ROAD TO INCLUDE SURVEY LOCATIONS, REMOVAL OF EXISTING FENCES, CLEARING AND GRUBBING, FOUNDATIONS, INSTALLATION OF A CONCRETE WALL, SITE RESTORATION AND OTHER INCIDENTALS IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONSTRUCTION PLANS PREPARED BY C3TS DATED 6/26/09 AND BASED UPON BROWARD COUNTY’S AWARD OF CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT OF THE PINE ISLAND IMPROVEMENT PROJECT; PROVIDING THAT BROWARD COUNTY WILL OFFSET THE COST TO THE CITY BY PROVIDING CREDITS IN THE AMOUNT OF $200,000.00 IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE INTERLOCAL AGREEMENT FOR JOINT FUNDING.

11. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-08-172: ACCEPTING THE PROPOSAL FROM MCMAHON ASSOCIATES, INC. IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $43,698.06 FOR ENGINEERING DESIGN SERVICES AND TO OBTAIN A GENERAL USE PERMIT FOR THE REMOVAL OF THE MID-BLOCK PEDESTRIAN SIGNALIZED CROSSING AS WELL AS THE RE-LOCATION OF THE BUS STOP CURRENTLY LOCATED BETWEEN INVERRARY BOULEVARD AND N.W. 55TH AVENUE ON THE WESTBOUND SIDE OF SR-816/OAKLAND PARK BOULEVARD; PROVIDING THAT THIS SCOPE OF WORK INCLUDES, BUT IS NOT LIMITED TO, PROJECT COORDINATION WITH FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION (FDOT) AND BROWARD COUNTY TRAFFIC ENGINEERING AND MASS TRANSPORTATION, DEVELOPMENT OF CONSTRUCTION PLANS, UTILITY LOCATES, PERMIT APPLICATIONS AND APPROVALS, AND BID ASSISTANCE.


FINANCE

12. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-08-173: AUTHORIZING DECLARATIONS OF OFFICIAL INTENT UNDER U.S. TREASURY REGULATIONS WITH RESPECT TO REIMBURSEMENTS FROM NOTE AND BOND PROCEEDS OT TEMPORARY ADVANCES MADE FOR PAYMENTS PRIOR TO ISSUANCE AND RELATED MATTERS; AMENDING RESOLUTION NO. 08R-03-79 AND RESOLUTION NO. 07R-05-137 TO MODIFY THE TOTAL LOAN AMOUNT TO $3,081,705.00; REQUESTING REIMBURSEMENT OF THE INCREASE IN THE LOAN AMOUNT WHICH IS IN THE AMOUNT OF $710,705.00.

13. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-08-174: AMENDING THE CITY’S 401(a) RETIREMENT PLAN TO PROVIDE ELIGIBLE PLAN PARTICIPANTS THE ABILITY TO BORROW FUNDS FROM THEIR EMPLOYER CONTRIBUTION ACCOUNT (VESTED BALANCES ONLY); PROVIDING TERMS AND CONDITIONS.

14. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-08-175: APPROVING THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL'S COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT (CDBG) ONE YEAR ACTION PLAN FOR FISCAL YEAR 2010.

15. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-08-176: APPROVING AND ADOPTING THE AMENDMENT TO THE FISCAL YEAR 2007-2010 LOCAL HOUSING ASSISTANCE PLAN (LHAP) FOR THE STATE HOUSING INITIATIVE PROGRAM (SHIP) TO ADD A STRATEGY TO ADDRESS THE FLORIDA HOMEBUYER OPPORTUNITY PROGRAM (FHOP).

16. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-08-177: APPROVING THE WINDERMERE/TREE GARDENS SAFE NEIGHBORHOOD IMPROVEMENT PLAN AS TO ITS CONSISTENCY WITH THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL’S ADOPTED COMPREHENSIVE PLAN PRIOR TO THE CONSIDERATION BY AND ADOPTION OF THE PLAN BY THE SAFE NEIGHBORHOOD IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT BOARD.


HUMAN RESOURCES

17. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-08-178: APPROVING THE RENEWAL OF THE CIGNA INSURANCE PPO (INDEMNITY) AND THE HMO DENTAL INSURANCE PLAN AT NO RATE INCREASE FOR THE PERIOD BEGINNING OCTOBER 1, 2009 AND ENDING SEPTEMBER 30, 2010.

18. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-08-179: APPROVING THE RENEWAL OF THE CONTRACT WITH FORT DEARBORN LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY TO PROVIDE GROUP LIFE AND ACCIDENTAL DEATH & DISMEMBERMENT (ADD) INSURANCE FOR A TWO YEAR TERM BEGINNING OCTOBER 1, 2009 AND ENDING SEPTEMBER 30, 2011 AT A DECREASE IN RATES.

19. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-08-180: APPROVING THE RENEWAL OF THE UNUM'S SHORT-TERM DISABILITY, LONG-TERM DISABILITY, TERM LIFE AND WHOLE LIFE INSURANCE POLICIES FOR THE PERIOD BEGINNING OCTOBER 1, 2009 AND ENDING SEPTEMBER 30, 2010.

20. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-08-181: APPROVING THE RENEWAL OF THE GROUP HEALTH INSURANCE PLAN WITH HUMANA INSURANCE COMPANY TO INCLUDE A POS AND A HMO FOR A ONE-YEAR TERM BEGINNING OCTOBER 1, 2009 AND ENDING SEPTEMBER 30, 2010.

21. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-08-182: APPROVING THE CONTRACT WITH AFLAC TO PROVIDE PLAN ADMINISTRATION OF THE SECTION 125 VOLUNTARY BENEFIT PROGRAM FOR A ONE YEAR TERM BEGINNING OCTOBER 1, 2009 AND ENDING SEPTEMBER 30, 2010.

22. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-08-183: APPROVING THE RENEWAL OF THE CONTRACT WITH AMERIFLEX TO PROVIDE ADMINISTRATION OF THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL’S MEDICAL FLEXIBLE SPENDING ACCOUNT AND DEPENDENT CARE SPENDING ACCOUNT UNDER THE SECTION 125 FLEXIBLE BENEFIT PROGRAM FOR ALL CITY EMPLOYEES AT “NO CHARGE” FOR A ONE YEAR TERM BEGINNING OCTOBER 1, 2009 AND ENDING SEPTEMBER 30, 2010.

23. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-08-186: APPROVING THE MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL AND METRO BROWARD PROFESSIONAL FIREFIGHTERS, LOCAL 3080 TO MODIFY ARTICLE 20 OF THE COLLECTIVE BARGAINING AGREEMENT REGARDING “VACATION” TERMS AND CONDITIONS FOR ELIGIBILITY TO SELL BACK ACCRUED VACATION LEAVE; PROVIDING THIS ONE TIME OFFER WITHIN LIMITED NOTIFICATION TIMEFRAME.


PALS

24. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-08-187: APPROVING THE PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL AND TMW SWIM ENTERPRISES, INC. TO DEVELOP AND IMPLEMENT A U.S. SWIMMING PROGRAM FOR ALL AGES AND ALL SKILL LEVELS FOR THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL.


PLANNING & ZONING

25. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-08-188: ADVISING ALL PERSONS APPLYING FOR DEVELOPMENT ORDERS AND PERMITS OF THE NOTICE OF ZONING IN PROGRESS THROUGH DECEMBER 31, 2009 PERTAINING TO ALL SIGN REQUIREMENTS WITHIN THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL INCLUDING, BUT NOT NECESSARILY LIMITED TO, LAND DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS, SCHEDULE I, SIGN REQUIREMENTS.


POLICE

26. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-08-189: APPROVING THE DONATION OF FUNDS IN THE AMOUNT OF $1,400.00 FROM THE STATE LOCAL LAW ENFORCEMENT TRUST FUND (LETF) TO THE WEST KEN-LARK HOMEOWNERS’ ASSOCIATION TO SUPPORT DRUG TREATMENT, DRUG EDUCATION OR DRUG PREVENTION, CRIME PREVENTION, SAFE NEIGHBORHOOD, OR SCHOOL RESOURCE OFFICER PROGRAMS IN ACCORDANCE WITH STATE GUIDELINES.

27. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-08-190: APPROVING THE DONATION OF FUNDS IN THE AMOUNT OF $1,400.00 FROM THE STATE LOCAL LAW ENFORCEMENT TRUST FUND (LETF) TO THE BROWARD ESTATES HOMEOWNERS’ ASSOCIATION TO SUPPORT DRUG TREATMENT, DRUG EDUCATION OR DRUG PREVENTION, CRIME PREVENTION, SAFE NEIGHBORHOOD, OR SCHOOL RESOURCE OFFICER PROGRAMS IN ACCORDANCE WITH STATE GUIDELINES.

28. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-08-191: APPROVING THE AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL AND SIENNA RIDGE HOMEOWNER’S ASSOCIATION, INC. FOR LOCAL TRAFFIC CONTROL AND PUBLIC SAFETY IN THE AREA KNOWN AS SIENNA RIDGE.

29. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-08-192: APPROVING THE EXPENDITURE OF FUNDS FROM THE POLICE DEPARTMENT FEDERAL FORFEITURE FUND IN THE AMOUNT OF $12,475.80 TO RESOURCE 4 FLOORS FOR THE PURCHASE AND INSTALLATION OF REPLACEMENT CARPETING FOR THE POLICE DEPARTMENT BASED UPON THE FLORIDA STATE CONTRACT (360-240-06-1.

30. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-08-193: APPROVING THE EXPENDITURE OF FUNDS FROM THE POLICE DEPARTMENT FEDERAL FORFEITURE FUND IN THE AMOUNT OF $1,807.71 TO WORKSCAPES SOUTH, LLC FOR THE PURCHASE AND INSTALLATION OF TWO (2) KNOLL CREDENZAS IN THE ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICES AT THE POLICE DEPARTMENT BASED UPON THE FLORIDA STATE CONTRACT (425-001-06-1.

31. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-08-194: ACCEPTING 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 WILL 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.


QUASI-JUDICIAL MATTERS:

QUASI-JUDICIAL MATTERS, FIRST READING:

REMOVE RESOLUTION NO. 09R-06-129 FROM THE TABLE:

32. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-06-129: GRANTING TO THE OWNER, 2555 GROUP CORP., A SPECIAL EXCEPTION USE DEVELOPMENT ORDER, SUBJECT TO CONDITIONS, TO ALLOW AN OUTDOOR VEHICULAR-RELATED USE IN THE GENERAL COMMERCIAL (CG) ZONING DISTRICT ON AN APPROXIMATE ± .46 ACRE SITE LOCATED ON A PORTION OF SECTION 36, TOWNSHIP 49 SOUTH, RANGE 41 EAST OF BROWARD COUNTY, FLORIDA, MORE COMMONLY KNOWN AS 1189 NORTH STATE ROAD 7, LAUDERHILL FLORIDA.


NEW BUSINESS

33. Approved cancelling the Oct. 12, 2009 Commission Meeting, which conflicts with the Columbus Day Holiday.

Girls Too Women, Inc. - Helping Girls Transition into Women

Girls Too Women, Inc. (GTW) focus is to empower girls transitioning into women with high-quality skills and knowledge. It provides girls from 5th to 12th grade, and young ladies 18 through 25 with a wide variety of self empowering workshops. Counseling, training, educational programs and support is provided.

GTW is a 501c3 non-profit organization located at 1505 NW 47th Ave., Lauderhill, FL 33313. More information can be obtained at http://www.girlstoowomen.vpweb.com/, or 954-822-9804.

Department of Energy Releases $37,000,000 US for Efficiency Research & Technology to Small Businesses

The Federal Department of Energy (DOE) has earmarked $37,000,000 in Recovery Act funding for small businesses through its Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (SBTT) programs. The DOE's SBIR/SBTT programs will target US companies with fewer than 500 employees, and applications are currently being accepted for topic areas related to improving energy efficiency including:

· advanced building air conditioning and refrigeration, thermal load shifting, and cool roofs
· water usage in electric power generation and industrial processes
· power plant cooling
· advanced gas turbines and materials
· sensors, controls, and wireless networks
· advanced water power technology development
· smart controllers for smart grid applications
· advanced solar technologies
· advanced industrial technologies development
· advanced manufacturing processes

The deadline for applications is September 4, 2009, with approximately $8,500,000 expected to be available for new Phase I awards. (Source: Cape Fear Business News, August 23, 2009) Contact: Small Business Innovation Research / Small Business Technology Transfer Programs, US Department of Energy, (301) 903-1414, www.sbir-sttr@science.doe.gov, www.science.doe.gov/sbir

An Open Letter from Lauderhill Resident, Lisa Timmons - Winner of the Channel 4 Phoenix Project

Hello Everybody,

I know it has been awhile since you have heard from me. I am still so excited. Talk about floodgates of heaven being thrown open and pouring out so many blessings that I am still reeling from them! Hallelujah!

I am so humbled for this opportunity and cannot thank God enough for this wonderful blessing. Mind you! Had I not received this wonderful award God is still awesome!

Please forward this email to all of your friends and family who supported me and who would like to know what happened to the Phoenix! I have begun a blog at, http://www.cbs4.com/phoenixblog, so that everyone can stay up to date.

In addition, for those who receive the local news for Broward, Dade and Monroe counties (Florida), you can view a segment of the wonderful businesses and service providers (featuring me) that helped to make the Phoenix Project come alive on Channel 4, Tuesdays between 5p and 5:40p. For those that are not local you can find these businesses (featuring me :), at http://www.cbs4.com/phoenix.

May God bless you all for you all have blessed me!

Love,

Lis'

A Letter from Broward County Concerning Walking through Construction to Discovery Elementary

When the school year begins, another new elementary school serving Lauderhill will open. A lot of work has gone into preparing for its opening, and one of the issues is the construction of Pine Island Road which borders the school. The following is a letter from Broward County, who is responsible for the construction of Pine Island Road, and how they are handling the pedestrian traffic (Note: there was no attachment to this letter):

Ladies & Gentlemen,

On Monday August 17, 2009 @ 10:00 AM a meeting was held at the Construction Office at Pine Island Road & NW 50 Street. The meeting was attended by representatives of the County, Contractor, Consultant and the School Board. The purpose of this meeting was to review the temporary provisions for pedestrian traffic along the Pine Island Road corridor from the neighborhoods, to the affected schools. Attached is a schematic copy of the walk routes that will be available and anticipated completion dates.

On the west side of Pine Island Road from Oakland Park Boulevard to NW 53 Court: temporary sidewalk will be in place.
On the west side of Pine Island Road from NW 53 Court to Commercial Boulevard: sidewalk has been provided behind the fence on the school property.
On the west side of Pine Island Road from Commercial Boulevard to NW 53 Court: a temporary right turn lane will be completed into Discovery Elementary.

On the east side of Pine Island Road from Oakland Park Boulevard to NW 44 Street: temporary sidewalk will be in place.
On the east side of Pine Island Road from NW 44 Street to NW 50 Street: new concrete sidewalk is complete.
On the east side of Pine Island Road from NW 50 Street to Commercial Boulevard: new concrete sidewalk is anticipated to be complete after Labor Day.

In the interim VMS Boards will be placed at NW 52 Street and NW 53 Court advising pedestrians to use alternate routes to access the established crossing guards at NW 50 Street and Commercial Boulevard.

If I may be of any assistance Please contact me at 954-XXX-XXXX

Thank you,

Donald G Quinn, Project Manager
BROWARD COUNTY PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT
Highway Construction & Engineering Division


NOTE: Lauderhill is involved in additional discussions to resolve concerns raised from this letter. Therefore, it could be subjected to modifications.

Mayor Works To Save Money and Energy on Street Lights

On June 26, Mayor Richard J. Kaplan appeared in front of the Public Service Commission to speak on the FP&L proposed rate increases. These increases were partly to help FP&L raise funds to invest in cleaner technology. Mayor Kaplan's testimony related to investing in low lying fruit that conserves energy, rather than produce more energy to consume.

Numerous examples were given from using CFL bulbs, to buying Energy Star appliances, among others. Credit was given to FP&L in providing a rebate to residents who buy new qualified air conditioners, and the testimony supported providing more such rebates to reduce the need for more power plants.

One issue brought up was that FP&L charges cities a flat rate for street lights (since they are not on meters). The rate is set by the Public Service Commission. Being the Federal Government is providing Energy Block Grants to Cities, specifically mentioning its use to be for providing for energy efficient street lights, LED street lights seemed to be a promising area to use the funds. They save 40 to 60% of the energy, and for the city of Lauderhill, that could mean an annual savings of $100,000 to $200,000/year.

However, in Mayor Kaplan's investigation, he found that while FP&L would allow a change to LED bulbs, the reduction in energy consumed (and thereby the reduction is energy costs) would not pass through to the cities. Instead, FP&L would keep all of the profits as a windfall.

FP&L stated that they are researching out LED lights in their own parking lights in Juno Beach, but it may take another year or so to determine if it would work, and what savings there would be. This has been a common response provided throughout the US by other utilities when confronted with the same request. However, the technology has been available for some time, and has been implemented throughout the US in numerous places. A significant amount of data is already available, though FP&L has no internal data of its own, which it is requiring.

Mayor Kaplan requested the Public Service Commission investigate this matter, and as part of the rate review of FP&L, that a lower rate charged on street lights be created if LED lights were used.

For more information see the Sun-Sentinel article: http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/broward/sfl-lauderhill-lights-fpl-b081709,0,7672530.story

Needed Preparations for Storm Season is Now

Dear Residents of the City of Lauderhill,

I have NOT activated my Emergency Notification System, but I wanted to send you this message because of a possible weather condition which is a matter of concern. Presently, Tropical Storm Anna and Bill are heading in the general direction of Florida. Based upon present projections, Thursday would be when the first tropical storm would be in our area. It is always possible that the route could take a change of direction, and either head closer to Florida or away from it. It could also pick up speed, which would result with a greater impact to our area, even if it stays on its presently projected course.

Being that we cannot guarantee the direction of the Storm, it is only prudent to take appropriate actions for safety reasons. Minimally, the precautions should address the concerns of flying debris. Please start looking at your hurricane plans. Address the need to bring in items (items under 50 lbs.) which could take flight, (flower pots, lawn furniture, BBQ's, flags, tools, etc.) from outside, into a secure area. If you have loose branches, please consider removing them now without injuring yourself or touching electric lines.

Right now would be a good time to make sure you have adequate supplies, batteries, flashlights, money, food and water supplies, etc., if power is lost. Also, you may wish to make sure you have sufficient gas for your car(s) and propane for your grill (storing it safely). Consult the guides the supermarkets and TV stations have been putting out for more information.

More announcements will be forthcoming as needed. It would be appreciated if you would notify others since this system does not reach everyone. If we can be of further assistance, please let us know.

Very Truly Yours,

Richard J. Kaplan
Mayor, City of Lauderhill

Lifeguard Traning Schedule

The City of Lauderhill is conducting a Lifeguard Training Program for 2009. For those interested in become an American Red Cross trained lifeguard, the schedule for the remainder of the year is:

September 12, 13, 19 & 20
October 10, 11, 17 & 18
November 14, 15, 21 & 22
December 12, 13, 19 & 20

Typically Lifeguards are typically paid $10/hour or more, and make a great summer job.

Location is at Veterans Park, 7600 NW 50th Street, For more information call 954-572-1462.

USA invites England and Australia to play in Florida

by DreamCricket USA

By Peter Simunovich

Don Lockerbie, the USACA Chief Executive Officer, has made a rushed trip to London to meet with Australian and England administrators in a bid to get the teams to play practice matches against the US national team early next year before the T20 World Cup tournament in the Caribbean.

Australia and England are now playing in the Ashes Test series and will meet in the Second Test at Lord’s this weekend.

Lockerbie, who left the US on Monday and is expected back this weekend, has already spoken with all the other leading cricket nations, including India, the West Indies and Pakistan, about playing the US in lead up matches to the T20 tournament.

“So far they have all said they are interested, but no firm decision has yet been given by any of the countries,” Manaf Mohamed, the USACA Second Vice President and Director of Cricket Operations told DreamCricket.com in an interview.

“The idea is to give the US team the chance to play against the best players in the world before the T20 tournament in the Caribbean next year. It will also help promote the game in the US. It would be a great experience for the US team.”

The US would also get international coverage of the matches, which would also give it an opportunity to showcase its talent of players.

The matches, if agreed upon, would be played on a turf wicket at the Central Broward Regional Park Stadium in Lauderhill, which is about five miles from Fort Lauderdale. Mohamed said the stadium has 5,000 seats and can accommodate up to 20,000 with extra seating.

He said that Lockerbie also planned to talk to the top countries about using fields in Florida as practice sessions before moving to the Caribbean for the T20 tournament.

Mohamed said that Lockerbie was hoping to have the matches recognized by the ICC to add status to the contests.

US captain Steve Massiah was excited about the potential matches when he was told about them. “This is amazing,” he told DreamCricket.com.

“This is really a blessing and a great opportunity for the US team to play against the top players and the best teams in the world.

“I think this will benefit us as a team in many, many ways. It will be a confidence booster for our guys to have played against the best players and teams in the world.

“I have always believed that the better the opposition is then it raises the level of the standard of competition. This is terrific news.”

Lockerbie has said since he became the first CEO of USACA that he wants top cricket countries to visit the US to play against the national team.

His philosophy is to promote cricket in the US and give the US team the chance to play against the best and to see what it takes and how much improvement is needed to be ranked with the elite of cricket.

Fall Baseball Season - Register Now

Each Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM, and on weekdays from 10 AM to 8 PM, Parents can register their children for Lauderhill Fall Baseball. Registration is at Veteran's Park, 7600 NW 50th Street.

Children from 5-6 play T-Ball, 7-8 play Coach Pitch, 9-10 Double A, 11-12 Triple A, and 13-15 Majors. The cost is $25 for the first child, and $20 for each additional child. New paraticipants may have the cost of the uniform too.

For more information call 954-572-1459.

Hometown Democracy Question to be on November 2010 Ballot

A proposed Florida constitutional amendment that would give voters a say on how their communities grow, including such decisions as where shopping centers, homes and roads are built, will be on the 2010 ballot.

A private organization, Florida Hometown Democracy, has collected enough signature to place the question on the ballot. To be designated as Amendment 4, the petition drive has been working for a public vote for 4 years. To pass, it will require a 60 percent approval by voters.

The constitutional amendment would require local referendums on changes to city and county comprehensive plans. While intending to give local voters a say in their city and county, the result, if passed, will be staggering on voters and the economy of Florida. Ballots could exceed 50 pages, and all development would come to a halt until a successful vote occurs. The costs of local referendums will have to be paid for by taxpayers, and it is unclear how often a voter referendum on a subject matter will occur.

An interesting alliance of business and development interests, along with government and public interest groups (including environmental groups and 1000 Friends of Florida) are opposing the amendment. If passed, the amendment would be a drag on Florida's already sagging economy, and the Florida Chamber of Commerce believes it may permanent cause Florida to remain in a recession, and hopelessly complicate the planning process.

Opponents also have begun their own petition drive for a competing amendment known as Smarter Growth with a provision saying it would prevail if voters approve both. Smarter Growth would require referendums on planning changes only if 10 percent of registered voters sign a petition within 60 days.

Commission in Summer Recess

From the completion of the Annual Budget Workshops on July 14, until August 31, all regularly scheduled Commission Meetings and Workshops have been cancelled. This is the time each year that the Commission takes its Summer Recess and city staff can arrange vacations. It thereby avoids conflicts with vacations and meetings.

Our next regular Commission Meeting will be the last Monday in August (Aug. 31).

What is Going Green?

Over the last two years the Mayor has been working with the City in developing a program to help reduce energy costs, and thereby help save the environment. Though the benefit of helping the environment is important, reducing our operating costs significantly drives the results.

In the Lauderhill Spotlight there was a copy of the Lauderhill Sustainable Green Initiatives Brochure briefly outlining Lauderhill's "Green Program." To help provide more information, a city web site has been created providing more details about the program at www.lauderhill-fl.gov/green. It also outlines how our city is planning to utilize its Federal Energy Block Grant Funds, for which residents will be able to receive direct benefits from.

Please take a look at it and hopefully you will learn something helpful to you, including how you may be able to save in energy costs too.

Notes of the CRA and Regular Commission Meeting of July 13

On July 13, the City Commission met for a CRA meeting and Regular Commission meeting. The following are some notes of interest from those meetings:

CRA MEETING:

1) SIGN ORDINANCE PRELIMINARY FINDINGS - Meetings took place with business to seek input on on modification to the sign ordinance. Many businesses attended. An explanation was given on how technology and interpretation of the present ordinance has created problems with the city's sign ordinance which is quite common with other cities. Instruction was given to see how other jurisdictions have handled the situation and to come up with a proposal for a new ordinance. However, a warning needs to be given out to businesses concerning using a sign that is presently not permitted. They will not be grandfathered in if the code does not ultimately allow what they used. An Ordinance Change in Progress notice will be arranged.

2) ACT BOARD, PUBLIC ART BOARD, ARTS INCUBATOR, CULTURAL TRUST - A discussion was held on the differences between the groups, and where should the Arts Incubator be placed. The resolutions creating the different boards will be subsequently reviewed.

3) DIRECTOR’S REPORT:
A) FALMOUTH DELEGATION VISIT - Visit went well on their local tours.


REGULAR COMMISSION MEETING:

ORDINANCES ----- FIRST READING:

1. Approved ORDINANCE NO. 09O-07-129: AMENDING THE CODE OF ORDINANCES TO CREATE A SECOND TIER FOR NEWLY HIRED POLICE OFFICERS; TO DEFINE THE NEWLY CREATED TIERS AND TO DEFINE EARNABLE COMPENSATION FOR TIER TWO MEMBERS; TO REQUIRE TWENTY-FIVE YEARS OF SERVICE FOR NORMAL RETIREMENT ELIGIBILITY OR THE ATTAINMENT OF AGE 55 AND 10 YEARS OF SERVICE UNDER TIER TWO; TO PROVIDE FOR 3% MULTIPLIER FOR A MAXIMUM BENEFIT OF 75% UNDER TIER TWO, AND ALLOWING TIER TWO MEMBERS TO PURCHASE AN INCREASE IN THEIR MULTIPLIER; ALLOW BUY-BACK FOR MILITARY OR PRIOR POLICE SERVICE; TO PROVIDE FOR A SEVEN YEAR VESTING PERIOD UNDER TIER TWO; TO PROVIDE THAT THE COLA ONLY APPLIES TO TIER ONE.

2. Approved ORDINANCE NO. 09O-07-131: TO ALLOW A CULTURAL AND PERFORMING ARTS CENTER, LIBRARY, MUSEUM AND SIMILAR USES AS A PERMITTED USE; AND AMENDING PARAGRAPH D., SPECIAL EXCEPTION USES AND STRUCTURES, TO REPEAL CULTURAL ARTS CENTER AND LIBRARY AS A SPECIAL EXCEPTION USE.

3. Approved in a 4 to 1 vote ORDINANCE NO. 09O-07-133: ADDING CORRECTIONAL AND JUDICIAL FACILITIES AS A LAND USE CATEGORY AND BY ADDING AN ASTERISK IN THE COMMUNITY COMMERCIAL, GENERAL COMMERCIAL AND COMMUNITY FACILITY ZONING DISTRICTS; AMORTIZATION AND ALLOWING EXISTING CORRECTIONAL AND JUDICIAL FACILITY USES IN THE COMMUNITY COMMERCIAL, GENERAL COMMERCIAL ZONING AND COMMUNITY FACILITY DISTRICTS TO CONTINUE AS A LEGAL NONCONFORMING USE UNTIL AUGUST 31, 2015, ADDING LANGUAGE ALLOWING THE CITY TO CANCEL SUCH AUTHORITY EARLIER IF A VIOLATION OF THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS EXIST.


RESOLUTIONS

ADMINISTRATION

4. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-07-148: APPROVING THE AGREEMENT FOR COLLECTION AND DISPOSAL OF SOLID WASTE AND RECYCLABLE MATERIALS BETWEEN THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL AND WASTE MANAGEMENT, INC. OF FLORIDA TO EXTEND THE AGREEMENT SUBJECT TO ALL OF THE ORIGINAL TERMS, CONDITIONS AND SPECIFICATIONS FOR AN ADDITIONAL ONE (1) YEAR TERM TO EXPIRE DECEMBER 31, 2010.


COMMISSION

5. Approving RESOLUTION NO. 09R-07-152: REQUESTING THAT THE FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION, BROWARD COUNTY MASS TRANSIT AND THE BROWARD COUNTY COMMISSION FAST TRACK THEIR REVIEWS OF THE REMOVAL OF THE SUBJECT MID-BLOCK PEDESTRIAN SIGNAL AND THE RELOCATION OF THE SUBJECT BUS BAY TO THE WEST SIDE OF N.W. 55th AVENUE IN CONNECTION TO THE OAKLAND PARK BOULEVARD TURNPIKE INTERCHANGE EXCHANGE INVESTIGATION(REQUESTED BY CITY COMMISSION).

6. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-07-153: REQUESTING THAT THE BROWARD COUNTY METROPOLITAN PLANNING ORGANIZATION (MPO) PLACE THE OAKLAND PARK BOULEVARD TURNPIKE INTERCHANGE ON THE MPO LONG RANGE TRANSPORTATION PLAN (REQUESTED BY CITY COMMISSION).


FINANCE

7. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-07-154: APPROVING THE LIST OF SIX (6) CONTRACTORS FOR THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL’S NEIGHBORHOOD STABILIZATION PROGRAM (NSP); PROVIDING FOR THE USE OF THE VARIOUS CONTRACTORS PURSUANT TO THE NSP PROGRAM GUIDELINES.

8. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-07-155: APPROVING THE LIST OF THREE (3) PROJECT MANAGERS FOR THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL’S NEIGHBORHOOD STABILIZATION PROGRAM (NSP); PROVIDING FOR THE USE OF THE VARIOUS PROJECT MANAGERS PURSUANT TO THE NSP PROGRAM GUIDELINES.

9. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-07-156: APPROVING THE LIST OF FIVE (5) REALTORS FOR THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL’S NEIGHBORHOOD STABILIZATION PROGRAM (NSP); PROVIDING FOR THE USE OF THE VARIOUS REALTORS PURSUANT TO THE NSP PROGRAM GUIDELINES.

10. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-07-160: APPROVING THE GRANT APPLICATION OF THE CITY TO THE DEPARTMENT OF HUD FOR AVAILABLE FUNDING UNDER THE ARRA NEIGHBORHOOD STABILIZATION PROGRAM 2, IN THE AMOUNT OF $10,000,000.


POLICE

11. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-07-157: APPROVING THE DONATION OF FUNDS IN THE AMOUNT OF $1,400.00 FROM THE STATE LOCAL LAW ENFORCEMENT TRUST FUND (LETF) TO THE NORTHWEST HOMEOWNERS’ ASSOCIATION TO SUPPORT DRUG TREATMENT, DRUG EDUCATION OR DRUG PREVENTION, CRIME PREVENTION, SAFE NEIGHBORHOOD, OR SCHOOL RESOURCE OFFICER PROGRAMS IN ACCORDANCE WITH STATE GUIDELINES.

12. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-07-158: APPROVING THE DONATION OF FUNDS IN THE AMOUNT OF $1,400.00 FROM THE STATE LOCAL LAW ENFORCEMENT TRUST FUND (LETF) TO THE ST. GEORGE HOMEOWNERS’ ASSOCIATION 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:

None

New City Hall Expected to be Opened in November

Lauderhill Spotlight Goes Green and Saves Money

Beginning with this quarter's issue of the Lauderhill Spotlight, the city newsletter will be delivered electronically through email. If you have an account to pay your city utilities on line, or sign up to receive the newsletter through the city's home page, http://www.lauderhill-fl.gov/, you will have the newsletter emailed to you.

Additionally, the newsletter is posted on the city web site at http://lauderhill-fl.gov/spotlight.pdf and a link is provided to you under Lauderhill Links, on the right side of this web page. For those without Internet capability, 1000 hard copies of the newsletter will be printed and distributed among city parks and city hall.

The annual savings is $120,000, and this is not only a green initiatives but also saves a large amount of tax dollars.

Editor's Note: The City Commission has decided to fund the Lauderhill Spotlight for the upcoming fiscal year in the amount of $77,000. It will still be on line, but also mailed. To save on costs, the number of issues for the year will be reduced from 4 to 3.

Mayor Kaplan Announces His Re-Election Campaign in Lauderhill

Mayor Richard J. Kaplan has announced that he is seeking re-election as Mayor in the City of Lauderhill. The election is schedule for November, 2010.

Anyone wishing to assist in the campaign can contact Mayor Kaplan at 954-752-1732, 954-742-6967, or email kaplan4mayor@comcast.net.

Political advertisement paid for and approved by Richard J. Kaplan, non-partisan, for Mayor of Lauderhill-Seat 5

Lauderhill Resident Asks for Your Vote

Lisa Timmons is a finalist on CBS 4 Phoenix Project Makerover and needs your vote. There are 4 finalist are seeking to receive help in moving their lives forward. Lisa's story is:

"I should be the Phoenix because: I desire to do better. I retired July 2008; my mom had a craniotomy and a mild stroke. I'm building a nonprofit to help at-risk children. It helps me be at home with mom. However, given the economy, I have sought employment as a Director of Development; or anything for three months. Employers are seeking polished, well-kept individuals. I have a skin rash and discoloration over my lower face, scalp, neck, chest and back. I am a single mother, age 45, who weighs 290. I am always tired and desire to be more active with my son who is overweight and wants a pretty mom."

Voting is over July 19, and you can vote by going to: http://cbs4.com/phoenix.

Mayors of Sister Cities Meet

Recently the Mayor of Lauderhill, Richard J. Kaplan, and Mayor Collin Gagner of one of Lauderhill's Sister Cities, Falmouth, Jamaica, met during the City of Lauderhill's 50th Anniversary Celebration. A delegation led by the Mayor visited several businesses and sites in Lauderhill. Discussions occurred that could result in providing some business to local Lauderhill companies, and result in further art and cultural exchanges.

School Grades Out for 2009

The following is a list of schools serving Lauderhill children, and the grade they received from the FCAT's:

ELEMENTARY:

Banyan Elementary---------------------------------A
Broward Estates Elementary----------------------A
Castle Hill Elementary------------------------------C
Challenger Elementary-----------------------------A
Endeavor Primary Learning Center--------------no rating
Larkdale Elementary--------------------------------C
Lauderhill Paul Turner Elementary--------------C
Martin Luther King Elementary------------------C
Nova Blanch Forman Elementary----------------A
Nova Eisenhower Elementary---------------------A
Park Lakes Elementary-----------------------------B
Royal Palm Elementary----------------------------C
Village Elementary----------------------------------C

MIDDLE SCHOOLS:

Lauderhill Middle-----------------------------------C
Millennium Middle---------------------------------A
Nova Middle------------------------------------------A
Parkway Middle--------------------------------------C
Smart School Charter Middle---------------------A
Westpine Middle-------------------------------------A

HIGH SCHOOLS:

Boyd Anderson High--------------------------------D
Dillard High------------------------------------------D
Nova High---------------------------------------------A
Piper High---------------------------------------------C

Budget Meetings Scheduled

On Tuesday, July 14, the City Commission will conduct its Annual Budget Workshop Meeting, starting at 10 AM, and working until completed that day. The Workshop will be held in the Commission Chambers at City Hall, 3800 Inverrary Blvd., Suite 111.

This is a public hearing, and members of the public may be able to speak at permitted times. This is an opportunity for the public to make an impact on the budget, to begin Oct. 1, 2010. The next time the budget will be discussed is upon the First Reading of the Budget Ordinance in September.

Notes of Commission Special Workshop and Regular Commission Meeting of June 29

On June 29, the City Commission held a Special Workshop and Regular Commission Meeting. The following are notes of interest for items covered:

SPECIAL WORKSHOP:

1. UPDATE OF PUBLIC ART BOARD MASTER PLAN. A presentation was made on the work of the Lauderhill Public Art Committee. Location of several pieces of art were presented.

2. DISCUSSION OF OAKLAND PARK BOULEVARD TURNPIKE INTERCHANGE INVESTIGATION. A presentation was given on a potential interchange for the Turnpike just north of Oakland Park Blvd., attaching to Rock Island Road. The Commission requested two resolution be presented for a vote. First, to remove the pedestrian light, with changes to Oakland Park Blvd. allowing for a new crossing. Second, to request that the Turnpike Interchange proposal be added to the MPO Long Range Transportation Plan.

3. DISCUSSION ON (NSP) NEIGHBORHOOD STABILIZATION PROGRAM FUNDS. The program is proceeding, and a lottery was conducted last month so property can be purchased from the city. One Hundred Eighteen residents applied and 27 employees. RFQ's for Contractors and Realtors has been received to assist in the program. Twenty-three contractors applied and 13 were qualified, with 4 to be ultimately approved by the Commission. Five Realtors applied, and will be ranked and approved by the Commission for approval. Four applicants has been received on the other program that requires applicants to go out and find properties to purchased. Should be ready to be presented at the next Commission meeting. Properties purchased will be rehabbed and monies will be paid back after closing. There are 1200 homes in Lauderhill in foreclosure. The breakdown between houses and condominium is unknown.

4. DISCUSSION ON HELPING TO STABILIZE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATIONS IN THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL. See 3 above. Commission Holness gave a report of his meeting with FannieMae and FreddieMac on the problems of getting financing in a Condominium Association.

5. DISCUSSION ON DOWN PAYMENT ASSISTANCE PROGRAM. See 3 and 4 above.

6. DISCUSSION ON BROWARD COUNTY IMPROVEMENTS IN WEST KEN LARK. Commissioner Holness spoke to the City Manager, and will follow it up with him.

7. DISCUSSION OF GARBAGE AND RECYCLING SERVICES. Contract renewal is coming up, and by 2010 the entire city will have come up. Therefore, a discussion on the process was entertained. Issues and recommendations were presented. The result will be by January 1, 2011, we will have one company for the entire city. The administration proposed putting it out to bid for the entire city this year, and then phase the contract in for all areas of the city other than annexed areas by Jan. 1, 2010, and the rest of the city by Jan. 1, 2011. The Commission instead requested that the present contract with Waste Management be extended for a year, and that the entire contract be put out to bid in 2010, beginning Jan. 1, 2011. Discussion of having another roll out for a universal roll out recycling bin is being considered.

8. DESIGN GUIDELINES. Design Guidelines were presented. The Commission directed them to be shown to the Master Plan Committee.


REGULAR COMMISSION MEETING:

ORDINANCES & PUBLIC HEARINGS --- SECOND READING:

1. ORDINANCE NO. 090-06-123: Approved a SUPPLEMENTAL APPROPRIATION TO THE FISCAL YEAR 2009 BUDGET TO FUND ADDITIONAL FISCAL YEAR 2009 CAPITAL EQUIPMENT PURCHASES FOR POLICE OPERATIONS – CAD SOFTWARE IN THE AMOUNT OF $86,473.70.

2. ORDINANCE NO. 090-06-124: Approved a SUPPLEMENTAL APPROPRIATION TO THE FISCAL YEAR 2009 BUDGET IN THE TOTAL AMOUNT OF $219,266.00 TO REALLOCATE FUNDS AS APPROVED BY RESOLUTION NO. 09R-05-109.

3. ORDINANCE NO. 090-06-125: Approved AMENDING THE CODE OF ORDINANCES SECTION 2-88.7, VESTING AND TERMINATION, PURCHASE OF PRIOR COVERED SERVICE, TO CLARIFY THE AMOUNT OF TIME A MEMBER HAS TO COMPLETE A PURCHASE OF ADDITIONAL CREDITED SERVICE.

4. ORDINANCE NO. 090-06-126: Approved AMENDING THE CODE OF ORDINANCES OF TO AUTHORIZE UNSWORN OFFICERS TO PERFORM SPECIAL DUTY; AMENDING SECTION 17-25, RATES, TO UPDATE THE CURRENT RATES FOR SUCH SERVICES.

RESOLUTIONS:

ADMINISTRATION

5. RESOLUTION NO. 09R-06-133: Approved THE CITY MANAGER APPOINTING Don Giancolli TO SERVE AS A MEMBER OF THE GENERAL EMPLOYEE PENSION BOARD FOR A TWO (2) YEAR TERM TO EXPIRE JUNE 2011.


COMMISSION

6. RESOLUTION NO. 09R-06-134: Approved DESIGNATING Vice Mayor Hayward Benson AS VOTING DELEGATE AND Commission Margaret Bates AS ALTERNATE VOTING DELEGATE FOR THE FLORIDA LEAGUE OF CITIES’ 83rd ANNUAL CONFERENCE BEING HELD AUGUST 13-15, 2009 IN ORLANDO, FLORIDA.

7. RESOLUTION NO. 09R-06-135: Approved THE ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL AND WESTLAKE REED LESKOSKY & BARRANCO-GONZALEZ, INC. TO PROVIDE ARCHITECTURAL, STRUCTURAL ENGINEERING, MECHANICAL, ELECTRICAL, PLUMBING ENGINEERING, CIVIL ENGINEERING, LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE AND IRRIGATION DESIGN SERVICES REQUIRED TO PLAN AND DESIGN THE PERFORMING ARTS/CULTURAL CENTER AND LIBRARY; PROVIDING THAT FUNDS TO PLAN AND DESIGN THE PERFORMING ARTS/CULTURAL CENTER AND LIBRARY WILL COME FROM THE JOINT FUNDING AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL AND BROWARD COUNTY AND GENERAL OBLIGATION BOND FUNDS; AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE THE AGREEMENT.


DEES

8. RESOLUTION NO. 09R-06-136: Approved AWARDING THE BID TO RICK DEVELOPER, INC. THE LOWEST QUALIFIED BIDDER, AS THE CONTRACTOR TO SERVE AS THE SOLE SUPPLIER AND INSTALLER OF FENCES WITHIN THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL FOR THE PERIOD COMMENCING JULY 1, 2009 AND ENDING JUNE 30, 2010.


PALS

9. RESOLUTION NO. 09R-06-138: Approved THE AWARD OF BID #P2009-003 TO VILLAGE YOUTH SERVICES IN THE TOTAL AMOUNT OF $15,000.00 FOR A TEN-MONTH TERM FOR THE OPERATION OF THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL’S AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAMS FOR CHILDREN AGES 5-12 YEARS OLD FOR THE COUNTY SCHOOL ACADEMIC CALENDAR YEAR 2009-2010.

10. RESOLUTION NO. 09R-06-139: Approved THE THIRD AMENDMENT TO THE INTERLOCAL AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL AND BROWARD COUNTY FOR THE PROVISION OF PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION SERVICES THROUGH UNTIL SEPTEMBER 30, 2009.


POLICE

11. RESOLUTION NO. 09R-06-141: Approved ACCEPTING THE BUREAU OF JUSTICE ASSISTANCE, FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF LAW ENFORCEMENT EDWARD BYRNE MEMORIAL JUSTICE ASSISTANCE GRANT (JAG) FOR FISCAL YEAR 2009 IN THE AMOUNT OF $64,211.00; ACKNOWLEDGING THAT NO MATCHING FUNDS ARE REQUIRED; AUTHORIZING THE APPROPRIATION OF THOSE FUNDS TO INDIVIDUAL REVENUE AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNTS AS REQUESTED.

12. RESOLUTION NO. 09R-06-142: Approved AND ACCEPTING THE FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION (FDOT) GRANT FOR IMPROVING TRAFFIC RECORDS AND DATA COLLECTION IN THE AMOUNT OF $60,000.00; PROVIDING THAT THERE ARE NO CITY MATCHING FUNDS REQUIRED FOR THIS GRANT;.

13. RESOLUTION NO. 09R-06-143: Approved AND ACCEPTING THE FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION (FDOT) GRANT FOR REDUCING TRAFFIC CRASHES THROUGH AGGRESSIVE ENFORCEMENT IN THE AMOUNT OF $38,500.00; PROVIDING THAT THERE ARE NO CITY MATCHING FUNDS REQUIRED FOR THIS GRANT.


QUASI-JUDICIAL MATTERS:

QUASI-JUDICIAL MATTERS, FIRST READING:

14. RESOLUTION NO. 09R-06-144: Approved GRANTING A SPECIAL EXCEPTION USE DEVELOPMENT ORDER TO INVERRARY ICE CREAM AND CONVENIENCE STORE, A SUBJECT TO CONDITIONS, TO ALLOW A CONVENIENCE STORE IN THE GENERAL COMMERCIAL (CG) ZONING DISTRICT, LOCATED AT 5568A WEST OAKLAND PARK BOULEVARD, LAUDERHILL, FLORIDA.

15. RESOLUTION NO. 09R-06-145: Approved GRANTING A SPECIAL EXCEPTION USE DEVELOPMENT ORDER TO F&K PETROLEUM, INC., A SUBJECT TO CONDITIONS, TO ALLOW THE CONTINUED OPERATION OF A SERVICE STATION AND CONVENIENCE STORE IN THE GENERAL COMMERCIAL (CG) ZONING DISTRICT LOCATED AT 1601 NORTH STATE ROAD 7, LAUDERHILL, FLORIDA.


NEW BUSINESS:

A. SCHEDULED SECOND READING OF THE FISCAL YEAR 2009/2010 BUDGET FOR TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 29TH, 2009 AT 6:30 P.M.

Do you love to SING, ACT & DANCE?

ENCORE Auditions - JULY 11th 10am - 3Pm
Veterans Park Community Center
7600 NW 50th Street – Lauderhill

Auditions consist of 3 Phases -- Drama - Vocal - Dance
Children should wear comfortable clothing and sneakers.
Be prepared to act, sing & dance!

For more info call… 954-309-5665 , 954-253-5115 or 754-234-3481
encorepac@gmail.com http://www.encorepac.com/

(Children must be accompanied by a parent/legal guardian to register.)

ENCORE is a non-profit organization committed to providing a safe environment and creative outlet for South Florida’s youth.
Encore Performing Arts Center Inc. is recognized by the IRS as a 501 c(3) non-profit corporation. Contributions are tax deductible.

About ENCORE

ENCORE Performing Arts Center Inc.
was 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, voice, 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.

Every Saturday (10am-3pm) Children participate in an all-inclusive performing arts workshop at Veterans Park Community Center. (7600 NW 50th Street - Lauderhill)

In addition to drama, dance and vocal instruction children perform, compete and attend LIVE performances, several times a year, throughout S. Florida.

COPS Hiring Recovery Program Grant Announcement - Lauderhill Receives $1,283,085

Vice President Joseph Biden announced $1 billion in grants through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 under the Department of Justice Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS), COPS Hiring Recovery Program (CHRP). Grants were made to 1,046 law enforcement agencies in all 50 states to create and preserve jobs. Of this amount, it was announced that Lauderhill has received $1,283,085, which covers the cost of 5 police officers.

CHRP provides funding to address the full-time sworn officer needs of state, local, and tribal law enforcement agencies nationwide. CHRP grants go directly to law enforcement agencies to hire and/or rehire career law enforcement officers in an effort and to increase their community policing capacity and crime prevention efforts.

CHRP grants will provide 100 percent funding for approved entry-level salaries and benefits for three years for newly-hired, full-time sworn officer positions (including filling existing unfunded vacancies) or for rehired officers who have been laid off, or are scheduled to be laid off on a future date, as a result of local budget cuts.

Notes From the US Conference of Mayors Meeting

From June 12 through 16, the Mayor attended the Annual US Conference of Mayors Meeting. This meeting of Mayors covers a variety of subjects and sharing of information which can be quite useful.

In particular interest at this meeting were discussions relating to Mortgage Foreclosures, Federal Stimulus Funds Programs, Climate Control/Green Programs, and Transportation. Several new pieces of proposed federal laws were reviewed and commented upon. Additionally, new products and services were presented, some of which are offered for a reduced price or even free. Information about possible grants and technical assistance was made available. Numerous contacts are made which can be very useful.

Notes of Special Meeting of Commission of June 22

On June 22nd, the City Commission held a Special Commission Meeting to cover a single item:

RESOLUTION NO. 09R-06-132: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL APPROVING THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL’S ENERGY EFFICIENCY CONSERVATION BLOCK GRANT STRATEGY PLAN AND AUTHORIZING THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL TO APPLY FOR THE ENERGY EFFICIENCY CONSERVATION BLOCK GRANT FOR ALLOCATION OF FUNDS IN THE AMOUNT OF $595,200.00; PROVIDING THAT NO MATCHING FUNDS ARE REQUIRED FOR THIS GRANT

This item was required since by June 25 the city must submit to the Federal Government its plan on distribution of the funds. The Resolution passed 5-0. After submitted, it is expected the to take 60 days for the Department of Energy to review and approve, and then our first installment of funds will be distributed to us.

These funds will be used to:

1) $10,000 to purchase 10,000 CFL bulbs to be distributed free to city residents. These bulbs are 13 watt bulbs and are equivalent to the traditional 60 watt bulb normally used. Obviously, a bulb using only approximately 20% of the energy to use will save residents a significant amount in energy costs. It is planned to distribute 2000 bulbs each month in each sector of the city (north, northwest, central, south and southwest), over a 5 month period. First come, first serve.

2) $70,200 to create an Interest Free Revolving Loan for city residents the Lauderhill Housing Authority and Lauderhill CRA, to help them purchase appliances that holds an Energy Star rating or qualifies for the Federal Energy Tax Credit. While details are not complete yet, the amount of the loan will depend upon the item being purchased, probably from $300 to $1200/item. The more expensive the item is, the more that can be applied for. Repayment schedules will be from 1 to 2 years, and are likely to be added to your water bill for monthly repayment. Items to be included are expected to be: refrigerators, dishwashers, washing machines, air conditioners, solar water heaters and solar panels. These funds can be leveraged with other manufacture/store/installer rebates, tax credits or loans.

3) $440,000 to create a Lauderhill Climate Neutral Public Facility Project. This facility will include installation of a solar PV system to generate electricity, solar thermal heating, energy efficient HVAC system, energy efficient track lighting and all Energy Star products. We hope to leverage these funds for another $5 million grant to build a Fire Station on 31st Avenue that is in our 2009 Capital Improvement Projects Program, though it is not required to go to the Fire Station. The building is expected to be carbon neutral and essentially create its own energy to fully support itself.

Lauderhill Police SWAT Report for the Weekend of June 19

On Friday, June 19, three separate SWAT units consisting of four operators were dispatched to all areas of the City to conduct fugitive sweeps. During the sweeps, the Eastside team approached 3720 NW 17th Street to apprehend a known felon. Upon approach a male fitting the description fled from the operators. While fleeing, the suspect discarded a back pack contain suspect cannabis.

The suspect then fled into the house. Fresh pursuit was in play and units apprehended the suspect inside. While conducting a protective sweep of the interior, more suspect cannabis was observed. VIN Detectives responded and acquired a search warrant from the residence where they recovered more contraband and a start up grow consisting of six maturing plants.

Soon after, the buy bust operation began. The inclement weather hampered officer efforts initially, however the operation pressed on. All areas of the City were targeted and arrests were made in Central and on the East District. The buy bust arrest also yielded informants which led to the successful purchase of illegal narcotics out of a location in the NW. The following are the results of the Operation:

3 arrests for delivery of crack cocaine
1 arrest for possession of cannabis with intent to deliver
1 arrest for an outstanding warrant (Fraud/Grand Theft)
1 arrest for possession of cannabis
1 arrest for felony traffic
26 citations written
1 seized vehicle
1 search warrant service
1 controlled undercover drug purchase from a house in Inverrary home area (Still under investigation)
$1,152.00 seized
3.5 pounds of cannabis seized
6 Maturing Marijuana plants (Grow)
2.5 Grams of crack cocaine seized

From the DUI Checkpoint:

Here are the totals for June 21st DUI checkpoint, as indicated by those officers who turned in a statistics sheet. Below is a breakdown of the TOTALS:

DUI arrests - 4
Felony Arrest - 3
Misdemeanor Arrests - 12
Criminal Citation - 48
Moving Citation - 31
Non-Moving Citation - 108
Seatbelt Citation - 18
Child Restraint - 9

Total number of Officers who responded to the event - 52
Total Arrests - 19
Total Criminal - 48
Total Citations - 214
Total Vehicles Towed - 19
Total number of vehicles processed thru the checkpoint pit area 1,202 in 5 hours.

New Picture of Lauderhill City Hall Under Construction

Lauderhill Lions Football & Cheerleading Registration

From June to August registration for Lauderhill Lions Football and Cheerleading is taking place. Students from 5 to 15 yrs for Football, and 6 to 15 yrs for Cheerleaders, can register at Lauderhill Middle School (Saturdays 11AM - 1 PM) or Wolk Park (June only Monday to Friday 5 PM to 8 PM). Payment of the registration fee ($100/student. If more than 2 than $90 each) is payable by check or money order only. No refunds after July 31.

To register bring parent or guardian, copy of birth certificate, a recent close up picture, proof of insurance and a physical (dated after May 1st). The first day of practice is June 18, from 6 to 8 PM.

For more information call 954-484-4111.

Lauderhill Special Events: June and July

On Saturday, June 20, starting at 4 PM, the city will be celebrating its 50th Anniversary, at the site of Lauderhill’s New City Hall ‐ 5581 W. Oakland Park Boulevard, Lauderhill, FL 33319. A tent is being set up and will include a live band and opening of the time capsule. Refreshments will be served.

Our next Jazz Under the Stars Concert is on Saturday, June 27, at the Lieberman Botanical Gardens. Featuring the Mary Washington Brooks Band, the performance will run from 6:30 to 9:30 PM. Bring chairs, blankets and food (no cooking allows).

Finally, due to budget cuts, the city has cancelled its July 4 celebration and fireworks. However, not to be without any celebration, we have arranged a special Jazz Under the Stars concert to be performed that weekend. On Friday, July 3 from 6:30 to 9:30 PM at the Lieberman Botanical Gardens, a special performance by Cache' Live will take place. This will kick off the weekend with our own celebration of our country's independence.

All events are FREE. For more information on any of these events contact 954-730-3000.

SOAR2SUCCESS

Soar2Success offers affordable individual and small group tutorial sessions in-home and various locations in the community. Pre-and post diagnostic assessments are conducted to identify each student's academic abilities, needs and progress. The student is then tutored using the curriculum and/or homework from their class to ensure improvement.

Tutoring is offered in all core subject areas for grades K-12 as well as exam preparation for standardized testing (i.e. FCAT, SAT, ACT and GED). Supplemental Education Services (SES) Free tutoring and remedial help is available to students attending Title I schools that have not made progressive for three consecutive years. Eligible students can receive after school academic sessions targeting the following subjects: reading, language arts and math.

Need Tutoring? Contact Soar2Success today!
Call 954-584-0777 or use the following link: http://www.ulbroward.org/Youth%20and%20Education%20Empowerment/index_html
Louna Pierre Philippe, Director, 954-625.2603

Citizens Committees Come Together From the Tri-County Area To Learn About Regional Transportation Projects

CONTACT: Lahoma Scarlette, Public Education Coordinator
PHONE: 954-357-7810

Fort Lauderdale, FL --- The citizen advisory committees of the Broward, Miami-Dade and Palm Beach Metropolitan Planning Organizations (MPOs) are holding their annual meeting to learn about transportation projects that will have a regional impact. The MPOs are the agencies responsible for their respective transportation planning process.

Various transportation agencies in the region will be presenting major projects that cross all three county boundaries giving the committees and the audience a chance to make comments and ask questions about them. Interested parties are encouraged to attend and participate.

Who: Broward, Miami-Dade and Palm Beach Metropolitan Planning Organizations’ (MPO) Citizen Advisory Committees

What: The MPOs’ Citizen Advisory Committees are inviting residents in Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties to a meeting to discuss the current and future transportation plans that transcend the tri-county area.

When: Wednesday, June 17, at 4 p.m.

Where: South Florida Regional Transportation Authority (SFRTA) Administrative Offices – Board Room, 800 N.W. 33rd St., Suite 100, Pompano Beach, FL 33064

Why: To encourage interested parties to become familiar and get involved with the transportation planning process.

If you would like more information regarding the meeting, call the Broward MPO at 954-357-7810.

Notes of the CRA and Regular Commission Meetings of June 8

On June 8th, the City Commission met for a CRA Meeting and Regular Commission Meeting. The following are notes of interest on items covered:

CRA MEETING:

1) MASTER PLAN TASK FORCE UPDATE. An interim report was given by the Task Force. They will be looking to include 2010 Census data into the Comprehensive Plan. Also, additional resident input is being sought to the Strategic Plan Process. A specific plan of 6 components, with broken out objectives were laid out, including potential benchmark measurements for specific areas. Several suggestions were provide for future development. It is possible that the outline may be posted on the city's web page.

2) REDEVELOPMENT CAPITAL FUNDS - $135000 is expected to be reimbursed to the city from the county. The county will be reviewing all community redevelopment funds to the city at a workshop.

3) SISTER CITIES DELEGATIONS - a report on organizing visits by dignitaries of our sister cities in coordination with our 50th Anniversary celebrations.

4) DIRECTOR’S REPORT
A) MICRO LOAN AND FACADE PROGRAMS - expected to be funded through CDBG funds. Facade up to $5000 matching grant, but city dollars must be used for landscaping. Micro Loan is up to $2500 from city funds. We are looking to leverage the Micro Loans through other sources to increase the amount of the loans.
B) NEW BUSINESS - none


REGULAR COMMISSION MEETING:

PRESENTATION:

A PRESENTATION BY MARK SCHRIEBER ON LAUDERHILL SUSTAINABLE INITIATIVES GREEN PROGRAM. (REQUESTED BY MAYOR RICHARD J. KAPLAN).


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

1. ORDINANCE NO. 090-06-123: Approved A SUPPLEMENTAL APPROPRIATION TO THE FISCAL YEAR 2009 BUDGET TO FUND ADDITIONAL FISCAL YEAR 2009 CAPITAL EQUIPMENT PURCHASES FOR POLICE OPERATIONS – CAD SOFTWARE IN THE AMOUNT OF $86,473.70.

2. ORDINANCE NO. 090-06-124: Approved A SUPPLEMENTAL APPROPRIATION TO THE FISCAL YEAR 2009 BUDGET IN THE TOTAL AMOUNT OF $219,266.00 TO REALLOCATE FUNDS AS APPROVED BY RESOLUTION NO. 09R-05-109.

3. ORDINANCE NO. 090-06-126: Approved AMENDING THE CODE OF ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL, CHAPTER 17, POLICE, ARTICLE III, SPECIAL DUTY, SECTION 17-24, PERSONNEL TO OPERATE ON ACTIVE DUTY BASIS, TO AUTHORIZE UNSWORN OFFICERS TO PERFORM SPECIAL DUTY; AMENDING SECTION 17-25, RATES, TO UPDATE THE CURRENT RATES FOR SUCH SERVICES.

4. ORDINANCE NO. 090-06-127: Approved AMENDING THE CODE OF ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL, CHAPTER 12, BUSINESS REGULATIONS, ARTICLE II, CERTIFICATE OF USE AND LOCAL BUSINESS TAX RECEIPT TO ADJUST CERTAIN FEES, TO CREATE CATEGORIES THAT DO NOT CURRENTLY EXIST, AND TO MODIFY PROVISIONS TO PROVIDE CONSISTENT LANGUAGE RELATIVE TO ISSUANCE OF CITATIONS FOR VIOLATIONS.


RESOLUTIONS:

DEES:

5. RESOLUTION NO. 09R-06-121: Approved AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE A MAINTENANCE MEMORANDUM OF AGREEMENT WITH THE STATE OF FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION FROM SR 838 (SUNRISE BOULEVARD) TO JUST SOUTH OF N.W. 27th STREET TO MAINTAIN NEWLY INSTALLED LANDSCAPING.


5a. RESOLUTION NO. 09R-06-130: Approved Westlake Reed, followed by Cubellis, and then Michael Graves, ranked in that order, as Architects, to negotiate with for the architectural services for the design of the Performing Arts/Cultural Center and Library.

6. RESOLUTION NO. 09R-06-123: Approved APPROVING EMERGENCY REPAIRS, MAINTENANCE AND DAILY OPERATION PERFORMED BY U.S. WATER SERVICES CORPORATION FOR THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL WATER TREATMENT PLANT; AUTHORIZING CONTINUED SERVICES TO TEST COST SAVINGS STRATEGY FOR 90 DAYS WITH OPTION TO EXTEND ANOTHER 30 DAYS IF REQUIRED; PROVIDING FOR PAYMENT IN THE AMOUNT OF $252,214.00 FROM VARIOUS BUDGET CODE NUMBERS.


POLICE:

7. RESOLUTION NO. 09R-06-127: Approved APPROVING THE WAIVER OF COMPETITIVE BIDDING REQUIREMENTS; APPROVING THE EXPENDITURE OF FUNDS IN THE TOTAL AMOUNT OF $10,910.00 FOR THE PURCHASE OF ONE (1) REFURBISHED PATROL CAR FROM AMERICAN INTERCEPTORS BASED UPON A PIGGY BACK OF THE LOW QUOTE; PROVIDING FOR PAYMENT IN THE AMOUNT OF $3,160.00 FROM THE POLICE DEPARTMENT FEDERAL FORFEITURE FUND BUDGET CODE NUMBER 110-683-9936; PROVIDING FOR PAYMENT IN THE AMOUNT OF $7,750.00 FROM BUDGET CODE NUMBER 305-311-6512.

8. RESOLUTION NO. 09R-06-128: Approved APPROVING THE WAIVER OF COMPETITIVE BIDDING REQUIREMENTS; APPROVING THE EXPENDITURE OF FUNDS IN THE AMOUNT OF $28,409.80 FROM THE POLICE DEPARTMENT FEDERAL FORFEITURE FUND 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).


QUASI-JUDICIAL MATTERS:

QUASI-JUDICIAL MATTERS, FIRST READING:

None

Florida Medical Center Merges with North Shore Medical Center

Effective June 1, 2009, two Tenet Hospitals, Florida Medical Center (FMC) and North Shore Medical Center have merged. Both campus will remain open and continue functioning as normal, with no expected reduction in services. Florida Medical Center will be renamed North Shore Medical Center - FMC Campus.

Merging the two hospitals enables them to capitalize on synergies to provide better, more efficient care to the communities they serve. It would allow a better recruit of specialized physicians, share service line expertise and consolidate back-off operations.

FMC is known for the cardiovascular services through its Heart Institute of Florida and Bariatric surgery, while North Shore Medical Center provides significant Women and Maternity services. North Shore Medical Center is located on 95th Street in Miami. Both are owned by Tenet Hospitals.

The City of Lauderhill Celebrates its 50th Anniversary!

A year of Anniversary Activities and Programs come to an end with the “Official 50th Anniversary Celebration” to take place on June 20, 2009, 4 PM, at the site of Lauderhill’s New City Hall - 5581 W. Oakland Park Boulevard, Lauderhill, FL 33319.

Lauderhill became a City on June 20th, 1959. With one-half a century under our belts, we wish all to join us as we celebrate our many accomplishments over the last 50 years and look to the future for what the next 50 can bring!

Two years ago, the City Commission appointed several members of the public to the “50th Anniversary Volunteer Committee” to work on various programs and events to help celebrate this most auspicious occasion.

Last month, the Anniversary Committee held a Celebrity Throw Back Golf Tournament at the Inverrary Country Club, where Mrs. Gleason, wife of Jackie Gleason, and several NBA and NFL players enjoyed a fabulous day of golf with several Lauderhill residents. For Lauderhill’s middle school students, the Committee wrote and will be distributing historical Lesson Plans for teachers to implement, while elementary students will receive Lauderhill coloring books and crayons. With that, a Lauderhill history/pictorial magazine is currently being produced for those history buffs who want to take Lauderhill’s history home for their coffee tables.

To close out this year of reflection, the Anniversary’s Committee, along with the Mayor and City Commission, will hold an official “50th Anniversary Celebration,” on Saturday, June 20th, 2009, at 4 pm, at the site of Lauderhill’s Future City Hall. Under a big tent, next to the building being constructed, the Anniversary Committee’s Chairperson, Former City Commissioner, Tyson T. Jones, will lead the Celebration that will honor the residents living in Lauderhill the longest, highlight some of our accomplishments, and open the long-time buried Time Capsule! After the ceremony, a live band will play the hits of the last five decades and refreshments will be served. Happy Anniversary Lauderhill!

If you would like to attend the “Official 50th Anniversary Celebration” please let us know by calling 954-730-3000, or by emailing jwhite@lauderhill‐fl.gov.

Also, if you have any historical items or photos you would like us to copy or donate, the Anniversary Committee would love talk to you about it. Please call Sandra Brown at 954-730-2968.

For more information, please call 954-730-3000.

Record Dry Season Tightens Grip on Region

Residents and businesses are urged to follow landscape irrigation restrictions to protect the public water supply

In an effort to keep the public informed about the dry conditions gripping much of the state, the South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) is issuing the following latest conditions report.

The period from November 2008 through April 2009 ranks as the driest six-month period in South Florida history based on records dating back to 1932. In April, an average of only 0.64 inches of rain was recorded across the 16-county District, increasing the 2008-2009 dry season deficit to 10.64 inches, which is only 30 percent of the historic average. Key areas such as the upper and lower Kissimmee basins, which feed Lake Okeechobee and South Florida, received no rainfall during the seven days ending on May 4.

Water levels continue to drop in the primary regional storage systems — the Water Conservation Areas and Lake Okeechobee — along with regional canals. Residents can expect to see lower canal levels in their residential areas as well.

The high regional evaporation rate (2.15 inches last week) continues to quickly draw down water levels in the conservation areas without any significant rain to counter the loss. Water levels in wells monitored by the District also declined. Dry conditions have left many areas with a high risk for wildfires and have impacted waterway navigation. A majority of the District remains under two-day-a-week landscape watering restrictions. Emergency orders have been issued to create more stringent water use restrictions in specific areas of the District that warrant additional resource protection. For more information on the new rules, see www.sfwmd.gov/watershortage.

A burn ban is currently in place on District-managed public lands to protect lives, property and the environment amid the drought. The ban applies only to District-managed lands and means no fires in grills, fireplaces or fire rings provided by the District or other authorized management agencies until further notice. The use of portable camp stoves and grills, brought in by users for cooking purposes only, is allowed.

The SFWMD is closely monitoring water levels and is urging residents and businesses to conserve water and follow landscape irrigation restrictions to stretch available supplies. More information about irrigation limits by area is available on the District’s water restrictions Web site. For water saving tips, visit http://www.savewaterfl.com/.

Note: In addition to the SFWMD water restrictions, the City of Lauderhill also requires that watering must be between the hours of 6 AM and 10 AM, or 4PM and 8 PM.

New Photo of City Hall Under Construction

School Boundary Lines Set for Elementary School 'A'

Though the name has not yet been chosen, the new elementary school being built on the corner of Pine Island Road and Commercial Blvd., has a district that its students will come from. The school, presently known as Elementary School 'A', is expect to open the Fall of 2009. It appears that over 1/2 of the students will be coming from Lauderhill, though the school has been built in Sunrise, at the border with Lauderhill and Tamarac.

Students attending will come from the cities of Sunrise, Lauderhill, and Tamarac. Those Lauderhill students that will be attending this new school will come out of overcrowded Banyan Elementary (which will still have some Lauderhill students from south of 50th Ave and west of University, attending this Sunrise school), Village Elementary (in Sunrise), and Challenger Elementary (in Tamarac, which will no longer be serving Lauderhill).

The Lauderhill boundaries for Elementary School 'A' are those parts of Lauderhill north of 50th Street west of University, and those parts of Lauderhill north of 44th Street east of University. The Middle and High School Boundary lines have not changed.

The Sunrise portion of the students will come from due west of the school to 100th Avenue, and the Tamarac portion will be primarily between University and 64th Avenue, and between Commercial Blvd. and McNab Road.

Summer Camp at Inverrary Tennis Club

AFFORDABLE SUMMER CAMP: AGES 8-18

MATCH PLAY SUMMER CAMP ALL - INCLUSIVE
LOCATED AT INVERRARY TENNIS CLUB: 3501 INVERRARY BLVD.
(OAKLAND PARK BLVD. AND INVERRARY BLVD.)
* 5 DAYS OF TENNIS AND FITNESS TRAINING
( 4 HOURS PER DAY )
· INSTRUCTION AND DRILLS FOR ALL LEVELS; BEGINNER,
INTERMEDIATE AND ADVANCED.
1.5 HOURS OF FITNESS TRAINING PER DAY
DAILY STRETCHING & CROSS TRAINING ( SOCCER& BASKETBALL)
AGILITY, SPEED AND STRENGTH TRAING
DAILY SWIMMING
MATCH PLAY AND GAMES WITH PRIZES
CAMPERS NEED TO BRING THEIR OWN LUNCH, COOLER, SWIM SUIT, TOWEL AND TENNIS RACKET. THEY WILL NEED SNEAKERS, SHORTS AND T- SHIRT.

Match Play Academy has 12 clay courts and 3 hard courts. We have developed a
Fun and challenging tennis program that will fit the needs and levels of recreational and new tournament tennis players. Match play summer camp will probably be the best sports experience your child will have ever had…

SUMMER CAMP TUITION RATES ( PER WEEK ):
SPECIAL ADD 10% OFF: ENROLL BY JUNE 2, 2009

CAMP TIMES RATES
HALF DAY ( M-F ) 9AM – 1 PM $ 50.00
FULL DAY ( M-F ) 9 AM - 5 PM $ 90.00
EXTRA CHILD 9AM - 5PM $ 60.00

MATCH PLAY SUMMER CAMP DATES:
SUMMER CAMP WEEK 1: JUNE 8- 12
SUMMER CAMP WEEK 2: JUNE 15 – 19
SUMMER CAMP WEEK 3: JUNE 22-26
SUMMER CAMP WEEK 4: JUNE 29 – JULY 3
SUMMER CAMP WEEK 5: JULY 6 – 10
SUMMER CAMP WEEK 6: JULY 13 – 17
SUMMER CAMP WEEK7: JULY 20 – 24
SUMMER CAMP WEEK 8: JULY 27 – 31
SUMMER CAMP WEEK 9: AUGUST 3 – 7
SUMMER CAMP WEEK 10: AUGUST 10 - 14

FOR INFORMATION AND REGISTRATION: http://www.matchplayacademy.com/
CALL: 954-605-2737 OR EMAIL: camper@matchplayacademy.com

NYC Police: Terror Suspects Wanted to Commit Jihad

By Tom McElroy of the Associated Press

Due to AP copywrite laws, the link to this article so you can read it is:

http://www.homeland1.com/domestic-international-terrorism/articles/498190-NYC-police-Terror-suspects-wanted-to-commit-jihad

Lauderhill and Florida Medical Center Launches New Jazz Under the Stars Concert

Saturday, May 30, from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM, the first in a new Jazz Under the Stars Concert will be performing. Like the Jazz Picnic in the Park Series, the concert will be performed at the Lieberman Botanical Gardens, 3801 Inverrary Blvd., next to the Inverrary Vacation Resort Hotel.

This free event is presented by Florida Medical Center, with additional sponsors of the Inverrary Association and Inverrary Vacation Resort Hotel. Performing with be Latin Jazz Band, Cache Live, and can be viewed at: http://www.gigmasters.com/jazz/CacheLive/

Bring your blankets, chairs, and picnic baskets. No cooking is allowed.

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

The final performance in this pilot mini-night series will be on Saturday June 27, with Mary Washington Brooks Band performing: http://www.marywashingtonbrooks.com/

Fourth Annual Hurricane Expo and Open House

Broward County residents will have the opportunity to witness a simulated activation exercise and see first-hand how County Government responds in an emergency at the County's Fourth Annual Hurricane Expo and Open House on Friday, May 29, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the Emergency Operations Center, 201 N.W. 84th Ave. in Plantation.

The simulation is part of a state hurricane exercise to ensure that government throughout Florida is prepared to respond to issues that would arise from a Category 5 hurricane approaching South Florida. The exercise will test alert and notification procedures, public information, evacuation plans, sheltering operations and resource management.

In addition to the simulated activation, residents will be able to tour the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) and the County's mobile command vehicle. This free event will also offer an exhibit area where residents can receive valuable information on how to prepare for the upcoming hurricane season. Experts from County and community agencies will be on hand to show residents how to be Ready. Set. Safe. in 2009.

The exhibit area will be located on the third floor of the EOC and will be set up in five different “zones” covering Preparedness, Recovery, Animal Care, Human Services and Transportation.

Available at the Expo will be free copies of Broward County's Official Hurricane Preparedness Guide and the popular Shopping Guide in English, Spanish and Creole. The County's hurricane preparedness Web site, www.broward.org/hurricane, is also now available in English, Spanish and Creole, and includes specific information on preparations for the disabled.

Table Game Night

Every Thursday night, at the St. George Community Park, the City will have Table Game Night. Checkers, Ping Pong, Chess, dominoes, Connect Four, Monopoly, Sorry, and other games will be played.

Ages 7-10 will be from 6:15 PM to 7 PM. Ages 11-15 will be from 7:15 PM to 8 PM. It is limited to 20 participants per session. For more information call 954-791-1039.

Another US President Enjoying Cricket

Notes of the Commission Meeting of April 27

On April 27, the City Commission met and the following items of interest were discussed:

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

1. Approved Ordinance No. 090-03-122: APPROVING THE SIX-MONTH REVIEW BUDGET ADJUSTMENTS AND REVENUE AND EXPENDITURE AMENDMENTS, AND ROLL-FORWARDS FOR FUNDS IN THE AMOUNT OF $2,304,768.00; REFLECTING ADJUSTMENTS TO VARIOUS REVENUE AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNTS


RESOLUTIONS

COMMISSION

2. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-04-96: APPROVING THE 2009 AMENDMENT TO THE INTERLOCAL AGREEMENT BETWEEN BROWARD COUNTY AND THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL FOR THE DIVISION AND DISTRIBUTION OF THE PROCEEDS FROM THE BROWARD COUNTY FIFTH CENT ADDITIONAL LOCAL OPTION GAS TAX ON MOTOR FUEL FOR TRANSIT.

3. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-04-97: APPROVING THE 2009 AMENDMENT TO THE INTERLOCAL AGREEMENT BETWEEN BROWARD COUNTY AND THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL PROVIDING FOR THE DIVISION AND DISTRIBUTION OF THE PROCEEDS OF THE LOCAL OPTION GAS TAX IMPOSED BY THE BROWARD COUNTY LOCAL OPTION GAS TAX ORDINANCE.

4. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-04-98: APPROVING THE 2009 AMENDMENT TO THE INTERLOCAL AGREEMENT BETWEEN BROWARD COUNTY AND THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL FOR THE DIVISION AND DISTRIBUTION OF THE PROCEEDS FROM THE BROWARD COUNTY ADDITIONAL LOCAL OPTION GAS TAX ON MOTOR FUEL ORDINANCE.

5. Approving RESOLUTION NO. 09R-04-99: APPOINTING STUART GREENBLATT AS A MEMBER OF THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL LOCAL AFFORDABLE HOUSING ADVISORY COMMITTEE BY THE CITY COMMISSION AS A WHOLE FOR THE UNEXPIRED TERM OF SOL SIEGLER ENDING JUNE 2010; TABLED APPOINTING A MEMBER OF THE COMMITTEE WHO IS A CITIZEN REPRESENTING EMPLOYERS WITHIN THE JURISDICTION BY THE CITY COMMISSION AS A WHOLE TO FILL A VACANT POSITION FOR THE TERM ENDING JUNE 2010 UNTIL RESUME ARE RECEIVED THAT SATISFY THIS CLASSIFICATION.

6. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-04-100: APPROVING AND ADOPTING THE WATER SYSTEM FACILITY PLAN AND THE CAPITAL FINANCING PLAN REQUIRED BY THE FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION FOR THE DRINKING WATER STATE REVOLVING FUND (SRF) PROGRAM; PROVIDING FOR A TOTAL COST IN THE AMOUNT OF $3,760,000.00 OF WHICH $3,196,000.00 WILL BE A GRANT AND THE REMAINING $564,000.00 WILL BE THE LOAN AMOUNT. These are funds that came from the Federal Stimulus Bill through the State of Florida.


HUMAN RESOURCES

7. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-04-101: APPROVING THE MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING (MOU) BETWEEN THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL AND THE AMERICAN FEDERATION OF STATE, COUNTY AND MUNICIPAL EMPLOYEES (AFSCME) LOCAL UNION 2942, COUNCIL 79, AFL-CIO TO MODIFY ARTICLE 13 OF THE CURRENT COLLECTIVE BARGAINING AGREEMENT (CBA) TO ENSURE PROPER ADMINISTRATION OF ACCRUED LEAVE TIME AND OTHER RELATED BENEFITS THAT WILL BE AFFECTED DUE TO THE CHANGE IN CITY EMPLOYEE WORK SCHEDULES.

Crime Rate in Windemere Goes Down Greatly

Over the last few years, the City of Lauderhill has put a lot of resources into reducing the crime in the Central Area of Lauderhill. Particularly in the Windemere Condominium area, where crime was quite high.

Additional patrols, more code enforcement, purchase and repairing of residential units by the Lauderhill Housing Authoriting, the creation of the Lauderhill CRA, creation of the Windermere Community Center, and a Police Youth Program, are just some of the activities put into place. Other future actions include the creation of a Safe Neighborhood District, which will result in a gated community with a manned 24 hour guard gate.

Though early, the crime reduction results are promising. From 2007 to 2008, crime statistics in the Windemere Project area show calls for service were reduced from 1,303 to 628. A 48% reduction. Disturbance calls were reduced by 48%, Burglaries down 90%, and robberies down 91%. These reductions are significant, and shows that the steps Lauderhill are taking work.

Lauderhill Gets Federal Energy Block Grant Funds

Under the Federal Stimulus Bill (ARRA), the City of Lauderhill has been award $595,200 for an Energy Block Grant. These funds are to be used for:

* Development of an Energy Efficiency and Conservation Strategy and Technical Consultant Services to assist in the development of such a strategy.
* Residential and Commercial Building Energy Audits.
* Financial Incentive Programs and Mechanisms for energy efficiency improvements such as energy savings performance contracting, on-bill financing, and revolving loan funds.
* Grants to nonprofit organizations and governmental agencies for the purpose of performing Energy Efficiency Retrofits.
* Energy Efficiency and Conservation Programs for Buildings and Facilities.
Development and Implementation of Transportation Programs to conserve energy.
* Building Codes and Inspections to promote building energy efficiency.
* Energy Distribution Technologies that significantly increase energy efficiency, including distributed resources, combined heat and power, and district heating and cooling systems.
* Material Conservation Programs including source reduction, recycling, and recycled content procurement programs that lead to increases in energy efficiency.
* Reduction and Capture of Methane and Greenhouse Gases generated by landfills or similar waste-related sources.
* Energy efficient Traffic Signals and Street Lighting.
* Renewable Energy Technologies on Government Buildings.
* Any Other Appropriate Activity that meets the purposes of the program and is approved by DOE.

The city activities should be prioritized in planning for use of funds as follows:

Energy efficiency, conservation, and renewable energy programs and projects are building blocks for increased economic vitality, energy security, and environmental quality. EECBG program funds will have maximum impact if invested in ways that create and/or retain jobs and stimulate the economy in the short term while laying the foundation for a long-term and sustainable clean energy economy. DOE encourages grantees to prioritize programs and projects that:

* Leverage other public and private resources.
* Enhance workforce development.
* Persist beyond the funding period.
* Promote energy market transformation such as revolving loans, low-cost loans, energy savings performance contracting, advanced building codes, building and home retrofit incentives and policies, and transportation programs and policies.

Several of these concepts Lauderhill already has implemented. Of the remaining objectives and based upon this information, Lauderhill is considering the following additional strategies that would:

1) Distribute energy efficient CFL bulbs to residents;
2) Provide a Revolving Loan Fund that would provide interest free loans to residents to purchase energy efficient appliances;
3) Provide incentive funding to purchase more fuel efficient or alternate fueled vehicles for the city;
4) Solar Paneling for city buildings;
5) Update City Codes, conduct energy audits and create an Energy Strategy;
6) Install LED lighting on Street Poles;
7) Install more energy efficient air conditioning units in city buildings; and
8) Install energy efficient lighting in city buildings.

It is required that the city must submit a plan no later than June 25, 2009, and the funds must be committed within 18 months. Expenditure of the funds must be within 36 months.

Additionally, there is a competitive energy grant available that Lauderhill is considering applying for in conjunction with other governmental agencies. One of the possible items to apply for special grants could be for Solar Powered LED Street Lighting. At this point, information on applying for that grant has not been released, but discussions are underway.

BROWARD COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT & CENTERS FOR DISEASE CONTROL AND PREVENTION CONFIRMS SWINE INFLUENZA

Broward County Health Department officials announced today a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)-confirmed case of the Swine Flu. The individual has been given the appropriate medication and is well at home.

What is emerging in Florida and around the United States is that infections with this virus seem widespread, but also generally mild. “At this time, after reviewing the current situation, and according to the CDC recommendations, Broward County Health Department is moving to community control measures,” said Dr. Paula Thaqi, Director of the Broward County Health Department.

The appropriate measures for the current situation include:

· Advising individuals with symptoms to remain at home;
· Advising household contacts to be vigilant for symptoms;
· Consider closure of a specific school, if a confirmed case is identified in that school.

“We do not recommend any other community or workplace measures at this time,” said Dr. Thaqi. The symptoms of Swine Flu in people are similar to the symptoms of Seasonal Flu and include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Some people have reported diarrhea and vomiting associated with Swine Flu. Like seasonal influenza, the Swine Flu may cause a worsening of underlying chronic medical conditions.

Broward County Health Department officials offer these recommendations for residents and visitors:

· As always, people with respiratory illness should stay home from work or school to avoid
spreading infections, including influenza, to others in the community;
· Avoid close contact with people who are coughing or otherwise appear ill;
· Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth;
· Wash hands frequently to lessen the spread of respiratory illness;
· People experiencing cough, fever and fatigue, possibly along with diarrhea and vomiting,
should contact their physician/health care provider;
· Cough or sneeze into a tissue or into your upper sleeve, not your hands and put your
used tissue in the waste basket;
· If you think you have influenza, please call your health care provider and discuss whether
you need to be seen.

The Swine Flu virus is not transmitted by food and a person cannot get Swine Flu from eating pork products. The infections appear to spread from person to person. Broward County Health Department is receiving frequent updates from the Department of Health and the CDC, and is actively monitoring the situation. More information is provided at:

Broward County Health Department
www.browardchd.org,
24 hour Information Line: (954) 467-4700

Florida Department of Health
www.doh.state.fl.us
1-800-342-3557
Hotline open 8AM to 8PM

Centers For Disease Control and Prevention
www.cdc.gov/swineflu

Broward County Transit Launches Online Bus Pass Purchase

Broward County Transit (BCT) passengers and authorized vendors can now purchase bus passes online. Visit www.broward.org/bct and click on "Purchase Bus Pass."

The new, three-easy-step purchase is available on a confidential and secure Broward County online site that accepts all approved major credit cards. The 10-Ride, 7-Day and 31-Day Adult passes are available. Online bus pass orders are processed at no extra cost using standard shipping via the United States Postal Service (USPS). Online purchasers will receive an email confirming their order and should allow 7-to-10 business days to receive their pass.

For more information about the online bus pass purchase, contact the Broward County Transit Communications Section at 954-357-6786. The BCT Web site was recently enhanced to include Spanish and Creole translations.