What You Need To Know About Identification for the General Election

Broward County, Florida (October 3, 2012) –Tuesday, October 9, 2012 is the last day to register to vote for the upcoming General Election.  We would like to inform Broward County voters that in order to accommodate the potential voter, our offices will remain open Monday, October 8 and Tuesday, October 9, 2012 until 7:00 p.m. Main Broward Supervisor of Elections Office Governmental Center 115 S. Andrews Ave. Room #102 Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301 Voting Equipment Center at the Lauderhill Mall 3:00 pm-5:00pm 1501 NW 40th Avenue Lauderhill, FL 33313 PLEASE NOTE:  New voter applications must be in our office by 7:00 p.m. next Tuesday, October 9, 2012 or must bear a postmark of October 9. ·         Once you are registered to vote, please remember that you will receive your voter information card in two to three weeks.  While you wait for your voter information card, you can find pertinent information regarding your polling place on our website by clicking on Precinct Finder . You do not need your voter information card in order to vote as it is not a form of ID.  The voter information card is an informational piece. Florida law requires voters to present a picture ID with signature.  Acceptable forms of ID are: Florida Driver’s License (quickest to process), Florida ID Card (quickest to process), US Passport, Military or Student ID, Public Assistance ID, Neighborhood association identification and Debit/Credit Card. If the voter’s picture ID does not contain a signature, an additional document with signature may be used. By law, your voter ID must be current and valid. You will be asked for ID, if you do not have ID, by law you MUST vote a Provisional Ballot.  I.D. required and checked at the polls is used solely to confirm the voter’s identity, not to verify the voter’s ID number or address. The photograph on the ID is compared to the person standing before the poll worker and the signature on the ID is compared to the signature on record.

Notes of the Commission Meeting of September 24

On September 24, the City Commission held its Regular Commission Meeting.  The following are notes of interest (all items passed unanimously unless otherwise indicated):

ORDINANCES & PUBLIC HEARINGS --- SECOND READING:

1. ORDINANCE NO. 12O-09-134:    PROVIDING FOR THE ISSUANCE OF NOT EXCEEDING $5,000,000 CITY OF LAUDERHILL, FLORIDA WATER AND SEWER REVENUE BONDS, SERIES 2012, FOR THE PURPOSE OF FINANCING, TOGETHER WITH OTHER LEGALLY AVAILABLE FUNDS, CERTAIN IMPROVEMENTS TO THE CITY’S WATER AND SEWER SYSTEM, FUNDING THE BOND RESERVE ACCOUNT IN CONNECTION WITH THE 2012 BONDS AND PAYING COSTS OF ISSUANCE OF THE 2012 BONDS; AUTHORIZING EXECUTION AND DELIVERY OF THE 2012 BONDS; AUTHORIZING THE NEGOTIATED SALE OF THE 2012 BONDS TO BRANCH BANKING AND TRUST COMPANY.


2. ORDINANCE NO. 12O-08-131:  ESTABLISHING A LOCAL HIRING PROCESS FOR CITY RESIDENTS (REQUESTED BY VICE MAYOR HAYWARD J. BENSON, JR.).  Passed 4-1 with Mayor Kaplan voting against.  It was noted that the City already has it as a policy under Civil Service Rules and this Ordinance not only modified those policies without going through the normal process, but expanded to all employees though the method applied presently does not exist (and would be difficult to apply).


3. ORDINANCE NO. 12O-09-147:  REPEALING ORDINANCE NO. 12O-06-122, WHICH ESTABLISHED A MORATORIUM ON CLINICS; AMENDING THE LAND DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS (LDR) AND ADDRESSING CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE PROVIDERS;  ADDING THE DEFINITION OF CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE;  ADDING USES AND DEFINITIONS FOR DIAGNOSTIC LABORATORY TESTING FACILITY, MEDICAL OFFICES WITH NON-CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE PRACTITIONER, MEDICAL OFFICES WITH CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE PRACTITIONERS, AND AFTER HOUR MEDICAL OFFICES; AMENDING  USES ALLOWED IN NONRESIDENTIAL DISTRICTS, BY REPEALING THE BIRTHING CENTER AND CLINICS LAND USE CATEGORIES, BY AMENDING THE DIAGNOSTIC LABORATORY TESTING FACILITY, HEALTH CLINIC, HOSPITAL AND PHYSICAL REHABILITATION CENTER LAND USE CATEGORY AND ALLOWING IT AS A PERMITTED USE IN THE GENERAL COMMERCIAL AND COMMERCIAL WAREHOUSE ZONING DISTRICTS, BY ADDING AS A PERMITTED USE IN THE COMMERCIAL OFFICE (CO), COMMUNITY COMMERCIAL (CC), GENERAL COMMERCIAL (CG), COMMERCIAL WAREHOUSE (CW) AND NEIGHBORHOOD COMMERCIAL (CN) ZONING DISTRICTS MEDICAL OFFICES WITH NON-CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE PRACTITIONER, BY ADDING AS A SPECIAL EXCEPTION USE IN THE COMMERCIAL OFFICE (CO), COMMUNITY COMMERCIAL (CC), GENERAL COMMERCIAL (CG), COMMERCIAL WAREHOUSE (CW) AND NEIGHBORHOOD COMMERCIAL (CN) ZONING DISTRICTS MEDICAL OFFICES WITH CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE PRACTITIONER AND AFTER HOUR MEDICAL OFFICES; ADDING SECTION 5.28., OFFICES; ADDING SUBSECTION 5.28.1., MEDICAL AND ADDING THREE PARAGRAPHS ADDRESSING MEDICAL OFFICES WITH A CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE PRACTITIONER.


RESOLUTIONS
DEES

4. RESOLUTION NO. 12R-09-214:  ACCEPTING THE PROPOSAL OF KIMLEY-HORN & ASSOCIATES, INC. IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $38,400.00 TO PROVIDE ENGINEERING SERVICES FOR THE PREPARATION OF PLANS AND SPECIFICATIONS FOR THE “INVERRARY BOULEVARD RESURFACING PROJECT” TO INCLUDE DESIGN SERVICES, PERMITTING, PROVIDING FOR PAYMENT FROM BUDGET CODE NUMBER 305-351-6525.


PALS

5. RESOLUTION NO. 12R-09-218:   APPROVING THE FIRST AMENDMENT TO THE INTERLOCAL AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL AND BROWARD COUNTY FOR COMMUNITY BUS SERVICES WHICH REMAINS EFFECTIVE THROUGH SEPTEMBER 30, 2013; PROVIDING THAT ONE OPTION TO EXTEND FOR AN ADDITIONAL ONE YEAR TERM REMAINS AVAILABLE; PROVIDING FOR MODIFICATIONS TO ROUTES 1 THROUGH 5, INCREASING THE HOURS TO A 60-HOUR WEEK, CHANGING TO A “NO CHARGE” FARE, ESTABLISHING ROUTES 6 & 7.


OLD BUSINESS

A. EXPANSION OF THE INTEREST FREE ENERGY LOANS TO ALL PROPERTIES IN LAUDERHILL, INCREASING THE AMOUNT OF LOAN ON RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY TO $2500 AND COMMERCIALLY ZONED PROPERTY UP TO $4000, AND PAYBACK PERIOD ON COMMERCIAL LOANS TO 36 MONTHS (REQUESTED BY MAYOR RICHARD J. KAPLAN).  Tabled to a Workshop for additional information requested by Commission.

The 9th Annual International Business EXPO, “Expanding Beyond Our Borders,”

Free Business Education Seminar

SEMINAR SERIES KICKOFF AND SMALL BUSINESS EXPO

SPECIAL GUESTS: GOOGLE AND CONSTANT CONTACT

OCTOBER 3, 2012 • 4:00 - 8:00 PM

WAR MEMORIAL AUDITORIUM

800 NE 8TH STREET | Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304

SEMINAR SERIES TOPICS TO BE COVERED INCLUDE BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO THE FOLLOWING:

• Grant Writing and Grant Opportunities
• Doing Business With Broward County
• How to Start a Business, including Franchising Opportunities
• State of Florida Small Business Incentives and Credit Initiatives
• Business Accounting • Business Financing: traditional and non-traditional lending
• Choose Your Business Structure to include tax and legal requirements
• Marketing Strategies for Growing Your Business
• Website Design
• Google+ and Intuit
• Social Media Marketing
• Get More Sales, Win New Customers: compelling more customers to buy from you

Space is limited. Please reserve your attendance by calling 954.828.4752 or email businesseducation@fortlauderdale.gov

Other Upcoming Seminars:

OCTOBER 24, 2012: HOW TO START A BUSINESS AND FRANCHISING OPPORTUNITIES
6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
SPEAKER:  RUSSELL THOMPSON, SCORE

NOVEMBER 28, 2012: DEVELOPING PARTNERSHIPS BETWEEN SMALL BUSINESSES/SHARING RESOURCES AND HIRING/BUYING LOCAL
6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
SPEAKERS:  SERGE ATHERWOOD, URBAN REVITALIZATION SOLUTIONS & AMANDA SPANGLER BARTLE, BHP COMMUNITY LAND TRUST

National Take-Back Drugs Initiative & Shed-A-Thon

Updated on Pine Island Road Construction

The City recently received a letter from Commissioner Ilene Lieberman, whose district includes Pine Island Road, giving an update on the construction.  The letter reads as follows:

August 28, 2012

Dear Mayor Kaplan (Richard),

I would like to update you on the progress of construction on Pine Island Road.  County engineering staff has informed me that the majority of the construction is complete and all lanes are open to traffic.

Unfortunately, during final inspection significant inadequacies in the drainage system were discovered through the county drainage pipe video testing.  The contractor is going to repair these defects, which will not require cutting and patching the recently placed asphalt road surface or concrete sidewalks.  However, it will necessitate closing individual traffic lanes at various times.  The repair work will start in a few weeks.

The repairs will be done on both sides of the road and county staff will notify all affected businesses and residents of the remaining work that has to be done.  Once the drainage lines are repaired, the contractor will proceed with installing the final pavement markings, signs, and remaining landscaping to completely finish all elements of the project.

The entire project is scheduled to be completed no later than the beginning of the year.  I hope this information was useful to you.  Please let me know if you need anything further.

Sincerely,
/s/
Ilene Lieberman
Commissioner, District 1

Note:  At this point it is not known if those issues with drainage on Pine Island Road had some effect on the flooding that occurred in the NW area of the city from Isaac.

Notes of the Commission Meeting of September 12, 2012

On September 12, the City Commission held its Regular Commission Meeting.  Normally the meeting would have been on Monday, but had to be moved to accommodate the state requirements on when public hearings on the budget could be heard. The following are notes of interest (all items passed unanimously unless otherwise indicated):


PUBLIC HEARINGS ----- FIRST READING:

1. ORDINANCE NO. 12O-09-142: SETTING AND ADOPTING THE 2012-2013 PROPERTY TAX LEVY FOR THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL AT THE OPERATING MILLAGE RATE OF $7.4198 PER ONE THOUSAND DOLLARS ($1,000); SETTING AND ADOPTING THE 2012-2013 VOTED DEBT SERVICE MILLAGE AT A RATE OF $1.2804 PER ONE THOUSAND DOLLARS ($1,000).

2. ORDINANCE NO. 12O-09-144:   APPROVING A SUPPLEMENTAL APPROPRIATION OF ADDITIONAL REVENUES AND EXPENDITURES TO BALANCE THE FISCAL YEAR 2012 BUDGET; PROVIDING VARIOUS BUDGET CODE NUMBERS.

3. RESOLUTION NO. 12R-09-200:  APPROVING THE TENTATIVE PROPERTY TAX LEVY FOR THE WINDERMERE/TREE GARDENS SAFE NEIGHBORHOOD IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT AT THE PROPOSED MILLAGE RATE OF 2.0 MILLS FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCING OCTOBER 1, 2012 AND ENDING SEPTEMBER 30, 2013; ADOPTING THE PROPOSED NON-AD VALOREM SPECIAL ASSESSMENT IN THE AMOUNT OF $500.00 PER PARCEL OF LAND PER YEAR FOR THE WINDERMERE/TREE GARDENS SAFE NEIGHBORHOOD IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCING OCTOBER 1, 2012 AND ENDING SEPTEMBER 30, 2013.

4. RESOLUTION NO. 12R-09-201:   APPROVING THE TENTATIVE BUDGET AS APPROVED BY THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS FOR FISCAL YEAR 2013 FOR THE WINDERMERE/TREE GARDENS SAFE NEIGHBORHOOD IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT WHICH SHALL BE INCORPORATED INTO THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL BUDGET FOR FISCAL YEAR 2013.

5. RESOLUTION NO. 12R-09-202:   APPROVING THE TENTATIVE PROPERTY TAX LEVY FOR THE ISLES OF INVERRARY SAFE NEIGHBORHOOD IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT AT THE PROPOSED MILLAGE RATE OF 2.0 MILLS FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCING OCTOBER 1, 2012 AND ENDING SEPTEMBER 30, 2013; ADOPTING THE PROPOSED NON-AD VALOREM SPECIAL ASSESSMENT IN THE AMOUNT OF $500.00 PER PARCEL OF LAND PER YEAR FOR THE ISLES OF INVERRARY SAFE NEIGHBORHOOD IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCING OCTOBER 1, 2012 AND ENDING SEPTEMBER 30, 2013.

6. RESOLUTION NO. 12R-09-203:   APPROVING THE TENTATIVE BUDGET AS APPROVED BY THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS FOR FISCAL YEAR 2013 FOR THE ISLES OF INVERRARY SAFE NEIGHBORHOOD IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT WHICH SHALL BE INCORPORATED INTO THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL BUDGET FOR FISCAL YEAR 2013.

7. RESOLUTION NO. 12R-09-204:   APPROVING THE TENTATIVE PROPERTY TAX LEVY FOR THE MANORS OF INVERRARY SAFE NEIGHBORHOOD IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT AT THE PROPOSED MILLAGE RATE OF ZERO MILLS FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCING OCTOBER 1, 2012 AND ENDING SEPTEMBER 30, 2013; ADOPTING THE PROPOSED NON-AD VALOREM SPECIAL ASSESSMENT IN THE AMOUNT OF $31.00 TO ALL MEMBERS OF THE MASTER ASSOCIATION PLUS AN ADDITIONAL NON-AD VALOREM ASSESSMENT OF $30.96 FOR THE CONDO I CATEGORY RESULTING IN A TOTAL NON-AD VALOREM ASSESSMENT TO THE CONDO I CATEGORY OF $61.96 PER PARCEL OF LAND PER YEAR FOR THE MANORS OF INVERRARY SAFE NEIGHBORHOOD IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCING OCTOBER 1, 2012 AND ENDING SEPTEMBER 30, 2013.

8. RESOLUTION NO. 12R-09-205:   APPROVING THE TENTATIVE BUDGET AS APPROVED BY THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS FOR FISCAL YEAR 2013 FOR THE MANORS OF INVERRARY SAFE NEIGHBORHOOD IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT WHICH SHALL BE INCORPORATED INTO THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL BUDGET FOR FISCAL YEAR 2013.

9. RESOLUTION NO. 12R-09-206:   APPROVING THE TENTATIVE PROPERTY TAX LEVY FOR THE HABITAT SAFE NEIGHBORHOOD IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT AT THE PROPOSED MILLAGE RATE OF 2.0 MILLS FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCING OCTOBER 1, 2012 AND ENDING SEPTEMBER 30, 2013; ADOPTING THE PROPOSED NON-AD VALOREM SPECIAL ASSESSMENT IN THE AMOUNT OF $250.00 PER PARCEL OF LAND PER YEAR FOR THE HABITAT SAFE NEIGHBORHOOD IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCING OCTOBER 1, 2012 AND ENDING SEPTEMBER 30, 2013.

10. RESOLUTION NO. 12R-09-207:   APPROVING THE TENTATIVE BUDGET AS APPROVED BY THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS FOR FISCAL YEAR 2013 FOR THE HABITAT SAFE NEIGHBORHOOD IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT WHICH SHALL BE INCORPORATED INTO THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL BUDGET FOR FISCAL YEAR 2013.

11. RESOLUTION NO. 12R-09-208:  APPROVING THE TENTATIVE BUDGET FOR FISCAL YEAR 2013 FOR THE COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY (CRA) WHICH SHALL BE INCORPORATED INTO THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL BUDGET FOR FISCAL YEAR 2013.


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

12. ORDINANCE NO. 12O-09-146:  PROVIDING FOR THE ISSUANCE OF NOT EXCEEDING $5,000,000 CITY OF LAUDERHILL, FLORIDA WATER AND SEWER REVENUE BONDS, SERIES 2012 AS ADDITIONAL PARITY BONDS UNDER ORDINANCE NO. 89-193 ADOPTED ON OCTOBER 30, 1989,   FOR THE PURPOSE OF FINANCING, TOGETHER WITH OTHER LEGALLY AVAILABLE FUNDS, CERTAIN IMPROVEMENTS TO THE CITY’S WATER AND SEWER SYSTEM, FUNDING THE BOND RESERVE ACCOUNT IN CONNECTION WITH THE 2012 BONDS AND PAYING COSTS OF ISSUANCE OF THE 2012 BONDS; FIXING CERTAIN TERMS AND DETAILS OF THE 2012 BONDS; AUTHORIZING EXECUTION AND DELIVERY OF THE 2012 BONDS; AUTHORIZING THE NEGOTIATED SALE OF THE 2012 BONDS TO BRANCH BANKING AND TRUST COMPANY.


ORDINANCES & PUBLIC HEARINGS --- SECOND READING: 

13. ORDINANCE NO. 12O-07-130:  CREATING SECTION 2-171, EXPENSE ACCOUNTS, TO CLARIFY APPROPRIATE USES OF THE FUNDS FROM THE CITY COMMISSIONER’S ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSE ACCOUNTS (REQUESTED BY MAYOR RICHARD J. KAPLAN).

14. ORDINANCE NO. 12O-08-132:   MODIFYING SCHEDULE OF FEES FOR ALL PARKS AND RECREATION USES TO ADJUST DISPARITY BETWEEN RESIDENT AND NON-RESIDENT FEES.

15. ORDINANCE NO. 12O-08-133:   APPROVING A SUPPLEMENTAL APPROPRIATION TO THE FISCAL YEAR 2012 BUDGET FOR A TOTAL ADJUSTMENT IN THE AMOUNT OF $570,291.00; PROVIDING VARIOUS BUDGET CODE NUMBERS.

RESOLUTIONS
COMMISSION

16. RESOLUTION NO. 12R-09-209:  APPROVING THE CITY COMMISSION’S DECISION TO FOREGO THEIR AUTOMATIC RAISE IN SALARY FOR THE FISCAL YEAR 2013  (REQUESTED  BY CITY COMMISSION).

17. RESOLUTION NO. 12R-09-210:  RECOGNIZING “TOGETHER WE SERVE WEEK,” OCTOBER 21-27, 2012, AND ENCOURAGING ALL CITIZENS TO SUPPORT AND TAKE PART IN INCREASING VOLUNTEER EFFORTS WITHIN OUR COMMUNITY  (REQUESTED BY COMMISSIONER KEN THURSTON).

18. RESOLUTION NO. 12R-09-211:   APPROVING THE DONATIONS OF FUNDS IN THE TOTAL AMOUNT OF $14,350.00 AS RECOMMENDED BY THE EDUCATIONAL ADVISORY BOARD TO THE LIST OF DESIGNATED ENTITIES; PROVIDING FOR PAYMENT FROM BUDGET CODE NUMBER 001-101-8126.

FINANCE

19. RESOLUTION NO. 12R-09-212:   APPROVING THE RECOMMENDED RANKINGS OF THE EVALUATION COMMITTEE FOR RFP 2012-011 TO ENGAGE THE GENERAL CONTRACTOR TO CONSTRUCT THE LAUDERHILL PERFORMING ARTS CENTER AND LIBRARY; AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO NEGOTIATE THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF THE CONTRACT.  Due to issues with disqualification of 2 bidders by Broward County, and that the matter was to discussed as to their disqualifications the day after this vote, the Resolution was made contingent upon  the results of the meeting with Broward County officials.  1st Rank was James A. Cummings, Inc.

20. RESOLUTION NO. 12R-09-213:   APPROVING THE BUDGET ADJUSTMENT TO TRANSFER FUNDS IN THE TOTAL AMOUNT OF $60,874.25 BETWEEN LINE ITEMS WITHIN THE CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT FUND TO COVER CONSTRUCTION CONTINGENCIES FOR NUMEROUS PROJECTS AND THE APPROPRIATION OF RECENTLY APPROVED PROJECTS; PROVIDING BUDGET CODE NUMBERS.

Lauderhill Mayor Richard Kaplan - a Finalist for GalaVerde 2012 LEEDership and Green Awards

On September 15, at the Hyatt Regency Pier 66 in Ft. Lauderdale, The South Florida Chapter of the United States Green Building Council (USGBC) will host the third annual GalaVerde Awards Banquet. The awards will recognize and honor those outstanding projects, inspirational businesses, dedicated individuals, and instrumental Chapter members who are leaders in ensuring the future holds a more sustainable built environment in our community. Over 400 attendees are expected to attend.

The USGBC is an organization dedicated to educating and promoting the benefits of sustainable, energy efficient buildings.

Mayor Richard J Kaplan is a Finalist for the “Outstanding Green Elected Officials” among other locally elected officials from Dade, Broward, Palm Beach and St. Lucie Counties.

“It has always been a passion of mine to figure out how to reduce the City’s carbon footprint as well as save us money,” explains Mayor Kaplan.

The City of Lauderhill has been at the forefront of many green initiatives, largely in part thanks to Mayor Kaplan. He has sponsored many resolutions and initiated several programs that help residents, businesses, and even the City become more conscious of the environment. See www.lauderhillgreen.com to better understand the variety of initiatives that make Lauderhill a Green city with the Mayor’s help.

The City of Lauderhill Experiences Localized Flooding After Heavy Down Pours

Lauderhill, FL – The heavy rains that took place last night and into this afternoon caused localized flooding in the northwest section of the City of Lauderhill. Four to five inches of rain have fallen in the last several hours.

City engineers and Emergency Responders are in contact and working with the South Florida Water Management District. The City’s Storm Water Division brought in additional pumps to expedite the drainage of water.

All roads are passable with the exception of the 7900 block of NW 50 Street. NO other damage has been reported at this time.

The City of Lauderhill’s Emergency Operation Center has been activated. Call 954-730-2950 if you have any information to add to this release or need non- life threatening assistance. If you have a true emergency, call 911.

You can also tune into 1650 am for updates, or log onto the City’s website at www.lauderhill-fl.gov.

Old Dillard Museum Fund Raising Jazz Concert

Lauderhill Achieves Higher Class 2 ISO Rating

Congratulation to the Lauderhill Fire Department and our DEES Department for the recent reduction of our ISO rating from a 3 to a Class 2!!  That is the second highest class and only 585 communities (or .7%) qualify.  Even less are a Class 1, the highest rating.  About 12 years ago Lauderhill was a Class 4.  What this means to property owners in the city is that they should see a reduction in their fire insurance premiums.

What is a ISO Rating?

ISO collects information on municipal fire-protection efforts in communities throughout the United States. In each of those communities, ISO analyzes the relevant data using our Fire Suppression Rating Schedule (FSRS). We then assign a Public Protection Classification from 1 to 10. Class 1 generally represents superior property fire protection, and Class 10 indicates that the area's fire-suppression program doesn't meet ISO’s minimum criteria.

By classifying communities' ability to suppress fires, ISO helps the communities evaluate their public fire-protection services. The program provides an objective, countrywide standard that helps fire departments in planning and budgeting for facilities, equipment, and training. And by securing lower fire insurance premiums for communities with better public protection, the PPC program provides incentives and rewards for communities that choose to improve their firefighting services.

ISO has extensive information on more than 47,000 fire-response jurisdictions.

Lauderhill Submits Bloomberg Mayors Challenge

Almost 400 cities in the US have registered to participate in the Bloomberg Mayors Challenge, including the City of Lauderhill.  

The purpose of the Challenge is to celebrate the creative problem solving and incredible innovation that is happening in city halls from coast to coast. The five boldest ideas with the greatest potential for impact will win funding as well as national and local recognition.  Only one application can be submitted under the direction of the Mayor.

Twenty Finalist will be invited to New York City to participate in an intensive two-day collaborative session this fall to strengthen and stretch their ideas.  Of the twenty cities, 4 will win $1 million, and one city will win $5 million, to use on developing their program.

Lauderhill, through an effort organized by Mayor Kaplan, has developed the application to draw on the strengths and directions of developing programs in the city

Applications are due no later than September 14, 2012.

Notes of Special and Regular Commission Meeting of August 27

On August 27, the City Commission met for a Special and Regular Commission Meeting.  The following are some notes of interest from 24 items (all items below passed unanimously unless otherwise indicated):

SPECIAL COMMISSION MEETING:

RESOLUTION NO. 12R-08-170:   APPROVING THE MODIFICATION TO THE LAUDERHILL COMMUNITY SHUTTLE BUS ROUTES 1 THROUGH 5 TO INCREASE ITS EXISTING 44-HOUR WEEKLY SERVICE TO 60-HOUR WEEKLY SERVICE; REMOVING THE FARE OF $.50 TO INSTEAD PROVIDE A “NO CHARGE” FARE FOR ALL ROUTES; ESTABLISHING ROUTES #6 AND #7 THAT WILL OPERATE WITHIN THE WEST KEN LARK, ST. GEORGE AND BROWARD ESTATE COMMUNITIES, PROVIDING THAT THE INCREASE OF SERVICE HOURS IS CONTINGENT UPON THE APPROVAL OF THE BROWARD COUNTY CONTRACT ADMINISTRATOR IN ORDER TO QUALIFY FOR CONTINUED COUNTY FUNDING.


REGULAR COMMISSION MEETING:

City Manager presented a report on Tropical Storm Isaac.  The notes on the report are provided below.


FIRST READING - ORDINANCES:

1. ORDINANCE NO. 12O-07-130:   TO CLARIFY APPROPRIATE USES OF THE FUNDS FROM THE CITY COMMISSIONER’S ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSE ACCOUNTS (REQUESTED BY MAYOR RICHARD J. KAPLAN).

2. ORDINANCE NO. 12O-08-132:   MODIFYING SCHEDULE OF FEES FOR ALL PARKS AND RECREATION USES TO ADJUST DISPARITY BETWEEN RESIDENT AND NON-RESIDENT FEES.

RESOLUTIONS:

3. RESOLUTION NO. 12R-08-174:  RENAMING N.W. 9th COURT TO HAVE A DUAL-NAME SUCH THAT “EMMA HARVEY COURT” SHALL BE THE PRIMARY NAME AND SUCH THAT “N.W. 9TH COURT” SHALL BE THE SECONDARY NAME.

Basic Sign Language Classes

WWW.SPEAKINGHANDS.ORG

Report from South Florida Water Management District

August 27, 2012

CONTACTS:
Gabe Margasak
South Florida Water Management District
Office: (561) 682-2800 or Cellular: (561) 670-1245
www.sfwmd.gov/news

SFWMD Taking Emergency Action to Move Historic Flows from Tropical Storm Isaac

Regional flood control system pumping at full capacity

24-Hour Rainfall Estimate

West Palm Beach, FL —The South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) has taken emergency action to help reduce flooding from Tropical Storm Isaac in western Palm Beach County, utilized an emergency detention basin in Miami-Dade County and dispatched divers to remove canal debris in Homestead.

This afternoon, an additional 6 inches of rain from a trailing storm feeder band fell across the east coast, from Miami-Dade County to the Kissimmee River north of Lake Okeechobee. This is on top of 3.5 inches that fell during the height of the storm on Sunday night and the District-wide 7-day average rainfall totals of 5.57 inches. This average includes more than 10 inches of rain in Palm Beach County and significant rainfall on the lower east coast and areas surrounding the lake.

As a result, some communities are experiencing localized flooding and high water in lakes, swales and on roadways. Based on radar rainfall estimates, there was 14.7 inches of maximum rainfall in C-51 Basin, which encompasses central Palm Beach County, for the period August 24 at 1 p.m. to August 27 at 1:00 p.m. Today, the C-51 Canal is moving 9,600 cubic-feet of water per second, the highest rate ever recorded. Emergency orders have been issued to help maximize system operations in an effort to help alleviate local flooding.

In Miami-Dade County, approximately 3.5 billion gallons per day are being pumped into the C-4 Emergency Detention Basin, a 900-acre impoundment area that was built by the District in response to local flooding from Hurricane Irene in 1999 and an unnamed storm in 2000. The overall project is providing improved flood protection to 500,000 residents and to 5,000 homes and businesses.

“The District is taking every action possible to manage water associated with Tropical Storm Isaac’s intense, historic rainfall,” said SFWMD Executive Director Melissa Meeker. “Our field teams are assessing conditions throughout the region, and our Emergency Operations Center is fully activated to provide flooding relief as we move water through the regional system as quickly and safely as possible.”

Overnight Rainfall

The District-wide rainfall average was 3.5 inches during a 24-hour period that ended at 6:30 a.m. today, with the heaviest rain concentrated in Palm Beach and Broward counties. An intense period of rain during a 3-hour span overnight Sunday and into early Monday morning left several areas with localized flooding.

Significant rainfall was recorded in the following areas:

· Wellington and the Acreage, Palm Beach County – 8 inches
· Canal Point near Lake Okeechobee - 9.50 inches
· Sunrise, Broward County - 6.4 inches
· Homestead, Miami-Dade County – 5.5 inches
· Eastern Caloosahatchee, Lee County – 2 to 3 inches
· Eastern Collier County and Southern Golden Gate Estates – 3 inches

In addition to its pre-storm activities and post-storm emergency orders, the District has taken the following actions:

· Dispatched rapid response assessment teams to provide real-time ground information, supplementing automated data gauges and field crews
· Focusing resources on areas receiving the heaviest rainfall – Palm Beach, Broward and Miami-Dade counties
· Moving water away from populated regions through the canal system to areas that have storage and to tide
· Continuing coordination with county officials and drainage districts to enhance the ability of local drainage facilities to route excess runoff into the District canal system
· Temporarily closed a section of the Kissimmee River for public health, safety and welfare

The District continues coordinating information with the state Emergency Operations Center as well as federal and local partners. The District will continue to closely monitor conditions around the clock.

To report flooding or damaged or blocked water control structures, call the SFWMD Citizen Information Line toll-free at (877) 429-1294.

For updates in case of an emergency, residents and visitors can follow the District’s Twitter feed (@SFWMD) and its list of weather and emergency management tweeters related to South Florida (@SFWMD/emermanagement).

About the South Florida Water Management District

The South Florida Water Management District is a regional, governmental agency that oversees the water resources in the southern half of the state – 16 counties from Orlando to the Keys. It is the oldest and largest of the state’s five water management districts. The agency mission is to manage and protect water resources of the region by balancing and improving water quality, flood control, natural systems and water supply. A key initiative is cleanup and restoration of the Everglades.

Tropical Storm Irene Update #2

At tonight's Commission Meeting the City Manager gave an excellent presentation on what was going on during the storm and why. As of this time the flooding is finally going down.  The delay appears to have been caused by a problem with the South Florida Management Districts equipment in that it was not moving the water.  Why is still unknown to us, but it caused flooding throughout western Broward County, not just Lauderhill.  They have advised the city that the system is now working and draining.  Over the last 24 hours Lauderhill received 12 inches of rain. The other problem related to back up in the toilets that some experienced.  There the problem was Broward County Waste Water Division couldn't accept any more waste because it reached its capacity.  So we went out with trucks to drain and store till later tonight when they can accept it again.  It appears the Broward County's system is insufficient to handle the needs of the residents. I have requested a full report, with documentation, and to bring it to both Broward County and SFWMD to get an explanation and resolution for the future. As far as the City went, our equipment and system did exactly what it was supposed to.  But to work perfectly correct required the SFWMD and Broward County to do their job correctly too.  This did not happen and the result is what you experienced. We will continue to work to improve the system and try to get the other governmental agencies to fix theirs.

Flooding Issues in NW Area - Update #1

While not reducing what the NW area of Lauderhill is going through, we have now taken note that significant flooding issues are being reported in Tamarac, Sunrise, Davie and numerous other cities in the area.  It appears the drainage issue is a significant problem for the South Florida Water Management District. The cause has not been determined as of yet.



RELEASE # 08-03


SUBJECT: Public Safety Alert – Manhole Covers Being Removed / Resident Access Only

WHO: Unknown

WHAT: Manhole covers being removed by unknown persons / Resident Access Only – NW Section

WHERE: Northwest section of the City of Lauderhill

SUMMARY: Information is being received of unknown persons removing manhole covers from flooded streets in an attempt to alleviate the flooding.

The police department is strongly advising that this illegal practice creates a significant safety hazard to pedestrians, city crews and public safety forces. Any person walking through a flooded area may fall into an uncovered manhole with the potential for physical injury from the fall and/or drowning. Also, any vehicles travelling over an open manhole may become damaged.

It is important to note that removing manhole covers does not alleviate flooding and will cause the sewer system to back up into homes and cause health hazards from contamination of the standing storm water.

Officers are carefully checking side streets for missing manhole covers. If anyone observes an authorized person removing a manhole cover they are asked to contact the police department immediately.

At this time no injuries have been reported nor has any damage been reported to vehicles.

Further – due to flooding conditions the Northwest section of the city, encompassing NW 44 Street to Pine Island, Pine Island to Commercial Blvd and Commercial Blvd to University will be limited to local/resident access only.

“Protecting our Community”

Motorists are cautioned not to drive through standing water. If a motorist drives through standing water they risk damaging their vehicle, creating a wake which may damage residences, and can create a hazard of driving into a canal. It is highly recommended to park a vehicle legally and walk to your destination if you must travel.

We are working with South Florida Water Management District to reduce the back up of water throughout the city.

    Side Note:  Also, the City is investigating the issue of the C-13 Canal to see if it is properly draining since the water level should be dropping and it is still rising.  The canal is operated and maintained by the South Florida Water Management District and not the City of Lauderhill.

Flooding in NW Area - Other Areas OK - Updated 1:23 PM

UPDATED 1:23 PM:

All City of Lauderhill buildings and services are fully operational. Lauderhill’s regular trash pick-up is on schedule.

Some isolated streets and roads were flooded due to the heavy rains associated with Tropical Storm Isaac.

To report flooding or damaged or blocked water control structures, call the South Florida Water Management District Citizen Information Line toll-free at (877) 429-1294.

If you have any other questions regarding Tropical Storm Isaac, please call Broward County’s Emergency Operation Center at 954-831-4000.

UPDATED 12:05 PM:

The city has heard from quite a few residents about the flooding in the NW area and we are aware of the situation.  Employees of the city have been trying to do everything they can.  The city pumps have been continuously in operation and working fine.  Trucks have been going around to find if there are any drainage clogs (not aware if we have found any), and the city has been talking with the South Florida Water Management District to assist in increasing the drainage flow, which I believe they have agreed to.

The good news is that it appears the line of squalls that have been sitting over our heads for the last few hours has finally moved to the west.  This will give time for drainage to happen.

We are having a City Commission Meeting tonight and I am sure this issue will be coming up for discussion.

In the meantime, we are asking for those in the flooded areas to not drive through them looking around because they create a wake that can push into someone's home.  


Most of Tropical Storm Isaac is passing, but we are still experiencing some bands of rain and wind.  Rain should diminish as the day goes by.  We are still planning on our Commission Meetings later today when things have subsided.

Overall, flooding has not occurred except in the NW area of the city.  It was draining, but a combination of high tide and full canals with saturation of ground has caused the flooding.

We have been trying to notify South Florida Water Management District, which controls the canals, about the situation.  There is a 9 am telephonic meeting where we will be able to update them.

All other roadways are passable, though we do not recommend you go out unless absolutely needed.

Attached is a photo from the NW area.

Tropical Storm Isaac Update as of 9:52 AM - 8/26

UPDATED AS OF 9:52 AM AUGUST 26:


Broward County is now under a Tornado Watch, Flood Watch and Tropical Storm Warning. Broward County Emergency Operations Center remains at a partial activation monitoring Tropical Storm Isaac. Residents are advised to stay indoors as much as possible today due to heavy rains and gusty winds.

In other updates:

Broward County Government

Broward County government agencies, including parks and libraries, will be open for normal business on Monday.

·         Broward County Transit services and Paratransit services are suspended on Sunday, August 26, but normal services are scheduled to resume on Monday.

The following agencies are closed Monday, August 27:

• Broward County 17th Circuit Court
• Broward County Public Schools
• Clerk of the Court and Court Administrator's Office
• Broward County Property Appraiser's Office

Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL)
There have been 135 canceled flights in and out of the airport since Friday. Travelers are encouraged to check with their airline for latest updates. There is significant road construction near the airport; travelers should allow additional travel time. 

Port Everglades
Port Everglades remains closed for both landside and waterside operations, except for limited produce and tank truck activity until the arrival of tropical storm force winds. Cruise passengers should call their cruise line for latest updates. The Allure of the Seas and a number of cargo and petroleum ships scheduled to arrive at the Port today will delay their arrival until after the storm passes.

Shelter Operations
Broward County has opened two special needs shelters and two general population shelters. As of 7 a.m. Sunday, there are five occupants in the general population shelters and 22 occupants in the special needs shelters.

The two general population shelters are: Rock Island Elementary, 1701 N.W. 23 Ave. in Fort Lauderdale and Millennium Middle School (a pet friendly shelter) at 5803 N.W. 94 Ave. in Tamarac.

Residents already registered for the special needs shelters are being contacted directly. Residents who have not preregistered but have a managed medical condition or disability who feel they need a level of care that may be compromised with power outages if they remain at home, should call the Broward County Emergency Hotline at 311 in Broward or 954-831-4000, for assistance.

A State of Emergency HAS NOT been declared in Lauderhill or Broward County as of yet.  However, precautions should still be taken since this could change.

Stay Informed

Residents and businesses are encouraged to monitor media for up-to-the minute information and public safety advisories. There are a number of ways to stay connected and receive important information from the Broward County Emergency Operations Center before, during and after an emergency event, including news about hurricane watches and warnings, evacuation orders, recommended protective actions and other related public safety Information.

• Call the Broward Emergency Hoteline at 311 in Broward or 954-831-4000
• Listen 1650 AM for Lauderhill updates

Tropical Storm Isaac Update

The Broward County American Red Cross will open two general population shelters. There is not an evacuation order; however, shelters are being opened for residents of low-lying areas and areas prone to flooding, mobiles home residents and those who feel their structure is unsafe. The following shelter locations will open at 7 p.m. today:

• Rock Island Elementary, 1701 N.W. 23 Ave., Fort Lauderdale
• Millennium Middle School (pet friendly shelter), 5803 N.W. 94 Ave., Tamarac

In other updates:

• Broward County Public Schools announced that classes are canceled for Monday, August 27. Parents are encouraged to visit browardschools.com or call the school district's Rumor Control Line at 754-321-0321 for questions or current information.
• Broward County Transit and Broward County Paratransit will not operate on Sunday.
• Port Everglades will close at 11 p.m. tonight, landside and waterside, and will remain closed until further notice. Cruise passengers should contact their cruise lines for updates.
• Air travelers should check with their airline for updates.
• The 17th Circuit Court will be closed on Monday. There will be no jury duty. Jurors should call 954-831-7051 for instructions.
• Clerk of the Court and the Court Administrator's Office will be closed on Monday.
• Broward County Property Appraiser's Office will be closed on Monday
• Residents who may be experiencing price gouging can call the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Affairs Price Gouging Hotline at 1-800-435-7352 or the Florida Attorney General at 1-866-966-7226.

Two Special Needs Shelters were opened at 3 p.m. today. Residents already registered for special needs sheltering are being contacted directly. Those residents who have not preregistered, but have a managed medical condition or disability who feel they need a level of care that may be compromised with power outages if they remain at home, should call the Broward County Emergency Hotline at 311, or 954-831-4000, for assistance.
Residents who choose to evacuate to a shelter are reminded that shelter only provides basic needs and they should bring the following to make their stay more comfortable:

• personal hygiene items
• bedding such as cots, air mattresses, blankets and pillows for their own use (none will be provided)
• non-perishable snacks and personal meals
• extra change of clothing
• personal items (medications, eyeglasses, hearing aid, flashlights, toothbrushes, battery-operated radio, special diet foods, if appropriate)
• baby supplies: ample amounts of baby food, formula, juice, diapers and wipes, and a stroller, portable crib or play pen
• driver's license, other identification
• cash, traveler's checks
• important documents 

All Broward County Public Schools and District Offices CLOSED MONDAY, AUGUST 27

Due to the anticipated impact of Tropical Storm Isaac in Broward County, all Broward County public schools and District offices will be CLOSED on Monday,  August 27, 2012.

        District officials are in contact and monitoring the storm’s track with Broward Emergency Management officials. While the storm’s impact is not fully known, officials agree there is the risk and potential for heavy rain and possible flooding throughout Broward County and high winds, which may cause power outages.  

        Information and updates will be shared with the public and the media as soon as available. Parents, students and BCPS employees will receive information via ParentLink (robot calls). Updates and information will also be provided via Twitter, Facebook, BCPS Rumor Control Hotline (754-321-0321), BECON-TV and local media.

        As soon as the storm passes, District officials and staff will assess any damages and conditions of schools, administrative sites and the safety of roadways. Following this assessment on Monday, a decision will be made about the resuming classes and normal operations on Tuesday. This information will be posted and shared as soon as available.

Tropical Storm Isaac Update

UPDATED AS OF 3:35 PM, AUGUST 24:

According to Broward County Emergency Management officials, if Tropical Storm Isaac's current forecast and track remain steady, Broward will experience heavy rainfall and gusty winds as early as Sunday afternoon. Chuck Lanza, Broward Emergency Management director, cautions residents and visitors to be prepared for possible flooding of low lying areas, potential power outages and rip currents. Emergency Management officials will continue to closely monitor Tropical Storm Isaac throughout the weekend.

UPDATED AS OF 2:17 PM, AUGUST 24:

According to Broward County Emergency Management officials, if Tropical Storm Isaac’s current forecast and track remain steady, Broward will experience heavy rainfall and gusty winds as early as Sunday afternoon. Chuck Lanza, Broward Emergency Management director, cautions residents and visitors to be prepared for possible flooding of low lying areas, potential power outages and rip currents. Emergency Management officials will continue to closely monitor Tropical Storm Isaac throughout the weekend. Stay tuned to local media (1650 AM Lauderhill's Emergency Radio Station) for any flood or tornado watches and warnings that may be issued by the National Weather Service.

RECOMMENDED ACTIONS FOR POTENTIAL IMPACT FROM TROPICAL STORM ISAAC INCLUDE:

• Remove all small and light items from the exterior of your home.  If you can pick it up, pick it up and move it.  Otherwise they become projectiles in strong winds.
• Do not walk through or allow children to play in standing water. Puddles are full of hidden dangers, including snakes and other wildlife, broken glass and other sharp objects.
• Do not drive through standing water. Your car engine may stall, potentially causing irreparable damage to the engine. The wake from your car may cause additional flooding in nearby homes and other structures. If you come upon a flooded street, take an alternate route.
•  Be Patient With Power Outages; Operator Generators Safely
•  Florida Power & Light knows where power outages are, and crews are dispatched to restore power as quickly as possible. It is not necessary to report a power outage at your home or business.
• Report sparking, arcing or downed power lines to 911 or call FPL at 800-4OUTAGE (800-468-8243).
• Assume all downed cables and wires are live and stay away.
• Keep away from flooded and debris-laden areas because they may be hiding downed lines.
• Run portable generators outside your house or building, in a well-ventilated area, and connect appliances or equipment directly to them.
• Avoid driving in damaged areas, and in areas where traffic signals may not be working properly. This can interfere with repair and restoration efforts, and jeopardize your safety. Treat intersections where traffic signals are not operating as four-way stops.
• Take Protective Actions if Tornados are Sighted
• A tornado watch is issued to alert people that conditions are right for tornado development. It does not mean a tornado has been sighted. A tornado warning is issued when a tornado has actually been sighted or picked up on radar in the area. When a tornado approaches, immediate action may mean the difference between life and death.
• Seek shelter below ground level, if possible.
• Go into an interior hallway or lower level.
• Stay away from glass doors and windows.
• Take cover under heavy furniture in the center part of the house.
• If outside, move at right angles away from the tornado. If escape is impossible, lie flat in a ditch or low spot.

TS Isaac - Bulk pick up and 1650 AM

Attention City of Lauderhill Residents……With the approach of Tropical Storm Isaac, residents are advised to review their hurricane plans and be prepared to implement them if necessary.  Emergency Management officials are closely monitoring the storm and will issue advisories regarding public safety actions to take if necessary.

Lauderhill Residents and businesses are encouraged to monitor media for up-to-the-minute information and public safety advisories. You can also tune into 1650 am for City related updates.

Bulk pick up for August 23^rd, 24^th, and 25^th 2012 will take place as scheduled. All Service has advised that since there is  more bulk garbage than normal with TS Isaac looming, they may not pick up Thursday or Friday’s bulk until Saturday night. If your bulk has not been picked up by Sunday morning please call 954-658-6210.

Special Public Hearing of City Commission on Community Shuttle Bus Service

On Monday, August 27, at 6:30 pm, the City Commission will hold a Special Public Hearing Meeting on the following Resolution:


RESOLUTION NO. 12R-08-170:   APPROVING THE MODIFICATION TO THE LAUDERHILL COMMUNITY SHUTTLE BUS ROUTES 1 THROUGH 5 TO INCREASE ITS EXISTING 44-HOUR WEEKLY SERVICE TO 60-HOUR WEEKLY SERVICE; REMOVING THE FARE OF $.50 TO INSTEAD PROVIDE A “NO CHARGE” FARE FOR ALL ROUTES; ESTABLISHING ROUTES #6 AND #7 THAT WILL OPERATE WITHIN THE WEST KEN LARK, ST. GEORGE AND BROWARD ESTATE COMMUNITIES, PROVIDING THAT THE INCREASE OF SERVICE HOURS IS CONTINGENT UPON THE APPROVAL OF THE BROWARD COUNTY CONTRACT ADMINISTRATOR IN ORDER TO QUALIFY FOR CONTINUED COUNTY FUNDING.

If passed, and approved by Broward County, it means not only will the City of Lauderhill resume to the prior, more longer hour service, but that they will be eliminating the fare and add 2 more route going through the Southeast Area of Lauderhill.  The reason Lauderhill is able to accomplish this is that the city did a concerted effort to successfully seek out grants to restore and expand the Community Shuttle Bus System.

Hunger Action Forum

Tuesday, August 21 from 6pm to 8 pm at Lauderhill City Hall, a free forum will be presented by the Salah Foundation about Hunger in South Florida.  Also information on the Food Assistance SNAP Program will be provided.

To RSVP, please email:  bhubbard@lauderhill-fl.gov or call 954-777-2040.

West Indies Cricket Board Minutes - Lauderhill

The following was found in the minutes of a recent West Indies Cricket Board Meeting on the International Games played in Lauderhill in June/July, 2012:


3. The Board received a report on the Digicel Twenty20 Series played in Lauderhill, Florida. The Board expressed immense satisfaction with the hosting of the series in Lauderhill and thanked, commended and congratulated the WICB Management, Friends of Broward Group and all the officials of Lauderhill for a job excellently done.

Lease Lauderhill Bus Tour

On August 16 from 1 to 5 PM a free bus tour will depart from Lauderhill City Hall and tour the city.

Valuable information will be given on Lauderhill's Redevelopment Plans and Small Business Initiatives.

This program is sponsored by CBRE, Lauderhill Mall, Lauderhill Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Promenade at Inverrary.

For more information and RSVP email bhubbard@lauderhill-fl.gov or call 954-777-2040.

Fort Lauderdale Wave Streetcar Gets Green Light

WASHINGTON – Earlier today, U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood informed U.S. Rep.  Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-20) that an $18 million transportation TIGER grant she has championed for seven years, the Fort Lauderdale Wave Streetcar Project, would be funded.

The money will go toward the first phase of the project that will eventually have streetcars running along a 2.7-mile corridor in downtown Fort Lauderdale.

The Wave is a critical project because it will create jobs while also increasing transit ridership and spurring economic development. It continues the transformation of Broward County into a “livable community” – one which promotes transit-oriented development by enabling our residents to use a street car in place of single passenger vehicles to travel through the downtown Fort Lauderdale area.

The Wave promotes a livable community by integrating land use, transportation, economic development, and environmental sustainability. This grant award represents a significant step forward in making the Wave a reality.

The Wave has community partnerships with Broward County, The South Florida Regional Transportation Authority (SFRTA), the State of Florida (FDOT), City of Fort Lauderdale, Downtown Development Authority, and the Broward Metropolitan Planning Organization.

North Shore Medical Center FMC Campus Expands Stroke Care With New SOLITAIRE FR Device

North Shore Medical Center FMC Campus has taken another step towards excellence in stroke care by offering its patients the Solitaire™ FR device by Covidien. The device is intended to restore blood flow to the brain in patients suffering acute ischemic stroke by mechanically removing blood clots from blocked vessels.

 “The Solitaire™ FR technology provides our physicians with an important tool for treating stroke, and providing patients with the best possible outcomes,” said Ben A. Rodriguez, Chief Administrative Officer of North Shore Medical Center FMC Campus. “We’re one of the first hospitals in south Florida to utilize this technology; FMC Campus and its physicians are committed to being at the forefront of comprehensive stroke care.”

 The Solitaire™ device is a self-expanding stent-based design that mechanically removes blood clots from blocked vessels after a stroke. After insertion into the clot using a thin tube, or catheter, the device traps the clot then both device and clot are removed, restoring blood flow. A clinical study showed that this method achieved positive results over an older comparable device- the MERCI retriever- that uses a tiny corkscrew to snare and remove the blood clot.

 In the clinical study comparing the two devices, the Solitaire™ FR device demonstrated superior performance to the MERCI retriever. This study was the first randomized clinical trial ever conducted on mechanical intervention for acute ischemic stroke. The Solitaire™ FR device showed a 2.5 times benefit in restoring blood flow to the brain, as determined by a blinded core lab, a 1.7 times improvement in post-stroke neurological function and a 55 percent reduction in mortality at 90 days.

 “When treating patients who have experienced stroke, it’s critical to remove the source of the problem- often a blood clot-, and do so as quickly and as efficiently as possible, which is what the Solitaire device allows interventionalists to do,” said Dr. Nils Mueller, interventional neurologist. “This technology will enhance our ability to provide some of the best possible stroke treatment to our community.”

 According to the American Heart Association, stroke is the fourth leading cause of death in the US and a leading cause of long-term disability. Approximately 700,000 people each year in the U.S. suffer an acute ischemic stroke. The Solitaire device will assist North Shore Medical Center FMC Campus’s neurologists and interventionalists in providing advanced care and treatment options to patients experiencing a stroke.

 For more information about North Shore Medical Center FMC Campus and neurology services, visit www.fmc-campus.com or call 954-735-6000.

National Night Out Against Crime

Lauderhill Police Department

 National Night Out!

The “29th Annual National Night Out” is a Community supported event sponsored by the Lauderhill Police Department Crime Prevention Unit, in partnership with Super Target. Join us it’s America's Night Out Against Crime!

Tuesday, August 7^th, 2012

5:00pm-8:30pm

Lauderhill Sports Complex

7500 West Oakland Park Blvd

Lauderhill, Florida 33311

NATIONAL NIGHT OUT is designed to:
     *   Heighten crime and drug prevention awareness;
     *   Generate support for, and participation in, local anticrime programs;
     *   Strengthen neighborhood spirit and police-community partnerships; and
     *   Send a message to criminals letting them know that neighborhoods are
          organized and fighting back!

Call 954-497-4700 for more information

Broward Health an Open Door to Immunizations Close To Home

Broward Health Community Health Services will host several immunization fairs to provide children access to immunizations for this upcoming school year. A total of eleven immunization fairs are scheduled with our staff able to accommodate Spanish and Creole speaking families at local community and school health centers located throughout the northern two-thirds of Broward County. Dates and locations for the eleven school immunization fairs are listed below:

Amadeo Trinchitella         July 18, August 8:  3:00 to 6:00 p.m.

Deerfield Beach High      August 20:  9:00 a.m. to noon

School Health Center      

910 SW 15^th Street                                                                                           

Deerfield Beach, Florida

(754) 322-0711

William Dandy Middle School Health Center  August 2

2400 NW 26^th Street                                          3:00 to 6:00 p.m.

Fort Lauderdale, FL 33311

(754) 322-3235

Lauderhill Middle School Health Center   July 17, July 31

1901 NW 49^th Avenue                                 3:00 to 6:00 p.m.

Lauderhill, FL 33313

(754) 322-3611

Seventh Avenue Family Health Center     August 18

200 NW Seventh Avenue                           10:00 to 2:30 p.m.

Fort Lauderdale, FL 33311           

(954) 759-6600

Broward Health Community Health Services is promoting this array of immunization fairs among several youth-focused organizations such as the School Board of Broward County, Boys & Girls Club of Broward County and local daycare centers to safeguard the health of children against diseases such as pertussis (whooping cough), measles, rubella, influenza and other diseases adversely affecting the health status of young children in the community.  For more information, please contact (954) 712-3977.

Cricket Brings Revenue to City and County

On June 30 and July 1, the first internationally sanctioned game between the West Indies and New Zealand took place at the Central Regional Park in Lauderhill.  Thousands of tickets were sold and it was a great sporting success.

By just as importantly, is the fiscal impact.  The concern being whether the facility was worth the investment. Will it sell tickets and fill up our hotels and restaurants?

Well, some of the results are in, and fiscally it appears that it is also a success.

While hotel rooms are being totaled (over 800 rooms were previously reported before the event), Ticketmaster shows that almost 60% of the tickets sold on its web site were from out of state.  Numerous restaurants in the area have reported significant increases in patronage.

As more information about the event becomes available, this site will be updated.

Football and Cheerleading Combine/Symposium

On July 28 there will be presented the Building Better Men and Women of Tomorrow Football and Cheerleading Combine/Symposium– run by the SFYFL and hosted by the Lions. This will feature Bethune Cookman University’s Head Coach and Lauderhill’s own…..Brian Jenkins as well as his coaching staff.

This camp will help the youth get exposure to college life and learn what it takes to get into college. The will also learn how their experiences in football and cheerleading programs like the Lions Program can help get them into college. The inspirational seminar/symposium is like a college tour that comes to the youth…..

At Lauderhill Sports Park, on W. Oakland Park Blvd just east of University Drive, from 9 am – 11 am.

If there are any questions, please feel free to contact Sam 754-368-6487.

Stars Football League Championship Game at CRP on July 28

The Ft. Lauderdale Barracudas defeated the Ft. Meyers Swamp Dogs 21 to 10 last Saturday, July 14th, in Ft. Lauderdale to advance to the SFL Championship game scheduled for July 28th in Ft. Lauderdale against the Daytona Beach Racers.  The Semi-Pro game will take place at the Central Broward Regional Park at 7 PM.  

For more information about the Football League, go to: http://starsfootballleague.com/

Notes of the CRA and Regular Commission Meeting of July 9

On July 9, the City Commission held its regular CRA and Commission Meetings.  The following are notes of interest (all items voted upon were passed unanimously unless otherwise indicated):

CRA MEETING:


1) LAUDERHILL MALL – AL COHEN.  Designs were presented as to the facade and the possible tenant of a Dunkin Donuts
2) TOWNHOUSE DEVELOPMENT PROPOSAL – WILLIE MCNAIR.  To be built on Georgia Street, south of the Lauderhill Mall
3) LAUDERHILL ARTS CENTER EXHIBITIONS.  Upcoming exhibitions.  A request was to develop a quarterly or longer list of upcoming events so they may have more time to be promoted.
4) NEW BUSINESS

COMMISSION MEETING:


ORDINANCES and PUBLIC HEARINGS ----- FIRST READING:


1. ORDINANCE NO. 12O-07-129:  AMENDING THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL CODE OF ORDINANCES,  TO CHANGE RETIREMENT ELIGIBILITY TO TWENTY FIVE YEARS OF SERVICE REGARDLESS OF AGE, AND TO CHANGE THE RETIREMENT MULTIPLIER TO 2.25%; AMENDING SECTION 2-88.15, DEFERRED RETIREMENT OPTION PLAN, TO CHANGE  THE MANNER IN WHICH DROP ACCOUNTS ARE CREDITED WITH INTEREST FOR NEW HIRES; AMENDING THE CONFIDENTIAL AND MANAGERIAL EMPLOYEE DEFINED BENEFIT PLAN TO CREATE A THIRD TIER OF RETIREMENT BENEFITS FOR MEMBERS HIRED AFTER SEPTEMBER 1, 2012. 


1A.  ORDINANCE NO. 12O-07-130:   AMENDING THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL CODE OF ORDINANCES, CREATING SECTION 2-171, EXPENSE ACCOUNTS, TO CLARIFY APPROPRIATE USES OF THE FUNDS FROM THE CITY COMMISSIONER’S ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSE ACCOUNTS (REQUESTED BY MAYOR RICHARD J. KAPLAN).  Tabled 5-0 to a Special Workshop to be held in August. 


ORDINANCES and PUBLIC HEARINGS --- SECOND READING:  


2. ORDINANCE NO. 12O-06-123:  AMENDING THE LAND DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS (LDR); AMENDING SCHEDULE A TO PROHIBIT THE USE OF A BANQUET HALL FOR RELIGIOUS WORSHIP EXCEPT UNDER LIMITED CIRCUMSTANCES AND TO ALLOW A BANQUET HALL AS AN ACCESSORY USE; AMENDING SCHEDULE B., ALLOWED USES, TO CHANGE FROM THE GENERAL COMMERCIAL (CG) AND COMMERCIAL WAREHOUSE (CW) ZONING DISTRICTS A BANQUET HALL FROM A SPECIAL EXCEPTION USE TO A PROHIBITED USE AND TO ALLOW IN THE COMMERCIAL RECREATION (CR) AND COMMUNITY FACILITY (CF) ZONING DISTRICTS A BANQUET HALL AS AN ACCESSORY USE; . 


3. ORDINANCE NO. 12O-06-127: AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF LAUDERHILL, FLORIDA AMENDING THE LAND DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS AND PERTAINING TO PHARMACIES; AMENDING SCHEDULE B, ALLOWABLE USES, SECTION B.2., USES ALLOWED IN NONRESIDENTIAL DISTRICTS, BY ADDING AS A LAND USE CATEGORY A PHARMACY AND ALLOWING A PHARMACY IN THE COMMUNITY COMMERCIAL (CC) AND GENERAL COMMERCIAL (CG. ZONING DISTRICTS AS A PERMITTED USE BUT A SPECIAL EXCEPTION USE IF IT HAS ANY DRIVE-THROUGH LANES; ADDING ARTICLE III, PART 5.0., SECTION 5.30.A., PHARMACY, BY PROVIDING FOR SEPARATION STANDARDS, STRUCTURE AND LOT REQUIREMENT AND VESTING; PROVIDING FOR FINDINGS AND CONCLUSIONS; PROVIDING FOR CONFLICTS; PROVIDING FOR CODIFICATION.




RESOLUTIONS


ADMINISTRATION


4. RESOLUTION NO. 12R-07-149: A RESOLUTION APPROVING THE AWARD OF BID TO ROMAX COMMUNICATION IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $39256.00 IN RESPONSE TO RFP 2012-22 TO PROVIDE NEWSLETTER PRINTING SERVICES FOR THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL; PROVIDING FOR A THREE (3) YEAR TERM WITH ONE (1) OPTION TO EXTEND FOR AN ADDITIONAL TWO (2) YEAR TERM.


FINANCE


5. RESOLUTION NO. 12R-07-151:  APPOINTING VARIOUS MEMBERS TO THE LAUDERHILL LOCAL AFFORDABLE HOUSING ADVISORY COMMITTEE BY THE CITY COMMISSION AS A WHOLE.  Additional appointments are still available.


6. RESOLUTION NO. 12R-07-152:  APPROVING THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL'S COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT (CDBG) ANNUAL ACTION PLAN FOR FISCAL YEAR 2013.


HUMAN RESOURCES


7. RESOLUTION NO. 12R-07-153:   APPROVING THE RENEWAL OF THE GROUP HEALTH INSURANCE PLAN WITH HUMANA INSURANCE COMPANY TO INCLUDE 4-TIER RATES FOR A ONE-YEAR TERM BEGINNING OCTOBER 1, 2012 AND ENDING SEPTEMBER 30, 2013.

8. RESOLUTION NO. 12R-07-154:   APPROVING THE RENEWAL OF THE HUMANA DENTAL INSURANCE PLAN AT NO RATE INCREASE FOR THE PERIOD BEGINNING OCTOBER 1, 2012 AND ENDING SEPTEMBER 30, 2013 BASED UPON THE PREMIUM RATE GUARANTEE.


9. RESOLUTION NO. 12R-07-155:  APPROVING THE CONTRACT WITH AFLAC TO PROVIDE PLAN ADMINISTRATION OF THE SECTION 125 VOLUNTARY BENEFIT PROGRAM FOR A ONE-YEAR TERM BEGINNING OCTOBER 1, 2012 AND ENDING SEPTEMBER 30, 2013.

POLICE


10. RESOLUTION NO. 12R-07-156:   APPROVING THE EXPENDITURE OF THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE, OFFICE OF JUSTICE PROGRAMS, RECOVERY ACT EDWARD BYRNE MEMORIAL JUSTICE ASSISTANCE 2011 GRANT (JAG) FUNDS IN AN AMOUNT NOT  TO EXCEED $3,200.00 TO THE SOLE SOURCE PROVIDER, CITIZEN OBSERVER, LLC FOR THE PURCHASE OF WEB-BASED AND TEXTING SOFTWARE KNOWN AS TIP-411.


QUASI-JUDICIAL MATTERS
QUASI-JUDICIAL MATTERS, FIRST READING 


11. RESOLUTION NO. 12R-07-157:   GRANTING A SPECIAL EXCEPTION USE DEVELOPMENT ORDER TO SAMANTA SLOTS, CORP., SUBJECT TO CONDITIONS, TO ALLOW THE CONTINUATION OF THE USE OF A GAME ROOM FOR ADULTS AT INVERRARY PLAZA WEST, 7301 A. WEST OAKLAND PARK BOULEVARD, LAUDERHILL, FLORIDA.


12. RESOLUTION NO. 12R-07-158:   GRANTING A SPECIAL EXCEPTION USE DEVELOPMENT ORDER TO SHOPPES OF INVERRARY, LLC, SUBJECT TO CONDITIONS, TO  ALLOW TWO DRIVE-THROUGH LANES IN CONJUNCTION WITH TWO FREESTANDING RESTAURANTS AND OUTDOOR SEATING AT THE SHOPPES OF INVERRARY, LOCATED AT 5515-5569 WEST OAKLAND PARK BOULEVARD, LAUDERHILL, FLORIDA.


The Regular Annual Budget Workshop was held on July 10.  This was the last regularly schedule Commission meeting before the Summer Recess.  The next regular meeting is scheduled for August 27, 2012.  Special meetings as needed can be called.

School Board to Consider School Meals Price Increase and Opening and Closing School Times

        The School Board of Broward County, at its regular meeting on June 19, 2012, considered the following:

        For the first time in six years, the School Board looked at an increase in meal prices for the 2012/13 school year.  The School District’s last increase occurred in 2006 and prior to that, there had been no increase since 1988.

        If approved, the meal price increase would be 10 cents for paid breakfast and lunch meals for elementary middle, high and center schools; including adult meal prices. Breakfast would cost $1.20 in elementary schools and $1.30 in middle and high schools. Lunch would cost $2 in elementary schools, $2.35 in middle schools and $2.50 in high schools. For adults, breakfast would cost $1.80 and lunch would be $2.75. The reduced meal price of 30 cents for breakfast and 40 cents would not change.

        Additionally, the School Board considered  approval of the opening and closing school times for the 2012/13 school year. Schools are scheduled to open and close at times that will best utilize existing resources to provide transportation services and accommodate student and program growth. Proposed staggered bell times would minimize operational cost impact to the District.

        For students at nine Broward schools – one high school and eight elementary schools – this will mean an extended 30 minutes of class time added to their school day. The additional 30 minutes would allow for innovative instructional opportunities to support student achievement as required by a federal grant program – School Improvement Grant (SIG). The SIG program is a three-year grant focused on meeting the needs of students at nine low-performing schools that were identified by the state. Schools benefitting from the extended day are Coconut Creek High, Dillard Elementary, Imagine Charter Elementary @ North Lauderdale, Larkdale Elementary, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Elementary, North Fork Elementary, North Lauderdale Elementary, Sunland Park Elementary and Walker Elementary.

Semi-Pro Football at Central Regional Park this Saturday

There will be an American Semi-Pro Football game taking place at the Central Broward Regional Park this weekend, Saturday at 7 PM.  The game is between the Ft. Lauderdale Baracudas and the Dayton Beach Racers inside the Stadium this Saturday at 7 pm.

For more information about the Football League, go to:  http://starsfootballleague.com/

Local Chiropractor Going to the Olympics

Dr. Michael Douglas of Douglas Rapid Rehab will be attending the 2012 London Olympic Games as the Olympic team Doctor for the Jamician track team. He has been treating the team for 19 years and attended the past 3 Olympic games as their Doctor.

Announcing an Oakland Park Boulevard Transit Corridor Study

The Broward County Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) along with Florida Department of Transportation have initiated an Oakland Park Boulevard Transit Alternative Analysis Study to identify the most feasible and effective premium transit project(s) in the corridor.

The focus is improving:
 mobility
 congestion relief
 the linkage between established communities, activity centers and proposed transit enhancements.

The corridor directly serves the cities of Lauderhill, Sunrise, Lauderdale Lakes, Oakland Park, Wilton Manors, and Fort Lauderdale.

Corridor Facts
Oakland Park Boulevard:
 A six‐lane divided facility that carries 75,000 cars/day
 Congested over much of its length – particularly between Inverrary Boulevard and N Andrews Avenue
 Accommodates Broward County Transit ’s busiest and most productive route (Route 72) which carries 8,060 passengers/weekday
 45% of bus trips are work‐related and 51% are generated from zero‐car ownership households
 Route 72 connects to 17 Broward County Transit (BCT) routes and multiple Community Shuttle routes, and 64% of its passengers transfer to or from other routes
 Provides very frequent bus service ‐ every 15 minutes between 6AM and 6PM weekdays, and every 20 to 30 minutes for most of the Saturday and Sunday schedule
 With a stylized bus fleet ‐‐ 60 foot articulated buses with Wi‐Fi, low floor boarding
 Corridor also provides direct access to freeway system (I‐95)
 Adopted in LRTP as candidate for both Premium High Capacity Transit (HCT) and Premium Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) service

Issues
 Corridor is home to mostly auto‐oriented land uses with a relatively large number of driveways.
 Very high traffic congestion levels which directly impedes bus service and results in unreliable transit travel times ‐ 50% of all buses are either early or late
 Bus speeds are very slow (10 mph vs. 25 mph during peak hours), and bus travel time is very long (69 minutes one‐way trip between the Sawgrass Expressway to Galt Ocean Mile)
 Restricted right‐of‐way limits the traffic and/or transit improvements that can be considered.
 Buses operate over capacity (crush loads)
 Pedestrian access to and from bus stops is often inconvenient and not well lit
 Limited amenities for bus riders at stops

The Project is being initiated now, and is expected to be concluded by Spring 2014 with a Public Hearing by the Broward MPO that will select a Locally Preferred Alternative.