WEATHER MESSAGE FROM THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE IN MIAMI

URGENT - WEATHER MESSAGE

NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE MIAMI FL

315 PM EST MON NOV 4 2013

FLZ168-172-173-050415-

/O.NEW.KMFL.WI.Y.0002.131105T0000Z-131105T1800Z/

COASTAL PALM BEACH-COASTAL BROWARD-COASTAL MIAMI DADE- INCLUDING THE CITIES OF...JUPITER...WEST PALM BEACH...

BOCA RATON...POMPANO BEACH...FORT LAUDERDALE

315 PM EST MON NOV 4 2013

...WIND ADVISORY IN EFFECT FROM 7 PM THIS EVENING TO 1 PM EST TUESDAY...

THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE IN MIAMI HAS ISSUED A WIND ADVISORY...WHICH IS IN EFFECT FROM 7 PM THIS EVENING TO 1 PM EST TUESDAY.

* TIMING...WINDY CONDITIONS ARE EXPECTED THIS EVENING THROUGH

  EARLY TUESDAY AFTERNOON.

* WINDS...AN EAST WIND IS EXPECTED TO INCREASE THIS EVENING TO 25

  TO 30 MPH WITH GUSTS TO NEAR 40 MPH.

* IMPACTS...A WIND ADVISORY MEANS THAT SUSTAINED WINDS OF AT LEAST

  30 MPH WITH GUSTS TO NEAR 40 MPH ARE EXPECTED. WINDS THIS STRONG

  CAN MAKE DRIVING DIFFICULT...ESPECIALLY FOR HIGH PROFILE

  VEHICLES. USE EXTRA CAUTION. MAKE SURE TO SECURE LOOSE OBJECTS

  AS THEY CAN BE BLOWN AROUND BY WINDS THIS STRONG.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A WIND ADVISORY MEANS THAT SUSTAINED WINDS OF AT LEAST 30 MPH WITH GUSTS TO NEAR 40 MPH ARE EXPECTED. WINDS THIS STRONG CAN MAKE DRIVING DIFFICULT...ESPECIALLY FOR HIGH PROFILE VEHICLES.

USE EXTRA CAUTION. MAKE SURE TO SECURE LOOSE OBJECTS AS THEY CAN BE BLOWN AROUND BY WINDS THIS STRONG.

City Received Additional Funding for 2 School Resource Officers for Elementary Schools

The City of Lauderhill received notice that the School Board of Broward County will be funding the cost of two School Resource Officers (SRO) to be place in two Lauderhill Elementary Schools.  The schools have not been selected, but there are 6 such schools in the city.

Green Series – “Local Benefits of a Community Garden”

Hosted by Vice Mayor Ken Thurston

Thursday, November 7 (6 pm – 7:30 pm)

City Hall Multi Purpose Rooms

Veterans Day Program

Hosted by Commissioner M. Margaret Bates

Thursday, November 7 (4 pm)

Veterans Park 

Successful County Toilet Rebate Program Begins its Third Consecutive Year

Over the past two years, the Broward Water Partnership, a collaboration of local governments, has provided more than $344,000 in rebates for replacing more than 3,700 outdated, water- guzzling toilets. Now, beginning its third year, many Broward County residents will once again have the opportunity to save money by replacing their old inefficient toilets with new high-efficiency models.

If your home was built prior to 1994, your toilet may be the original, making you eligible to participate and receive up to $100 in rebates per toilet for the purchase and installation of up to two new water-saving models. The goal is to replace toilets that use more than 1.6 gallons of water per flush with a new, WaterSense® certified, high-efficiency model that uses 1.28 gallons per flush or less.

Broward County and 18 cities and water utilities, including Lauderhill, have partnered to help residents obtain rebates and conserve water when they purchase a new, high-efficiency toilet. The Broward Water Partnership is offering rebates to qualified homeowners through its Conservation Pay$ program.

Some residents will also be eligible to receive free low-flow faucet aerators and showerheads. The older the original fixture, the greater the potential water savings, as much as 70 – 90 percent, depending on the device.

The thousands of residents who have replaced their old toilets and installed other water saving devices have helped our community save more than 165 million gallons of water annually over the life of the program!

Commercial and multifamily properties, along with nonprofit organizations, are also eligible, with the total number of allowable rebates determined on a case-by-case basis. High efficiency prerinse spray valves are available for commercial kitchens. Each replacement can save up to 400,000 gallons per year, the equivalent of 27 residential swimming pools. All participants must be pre-approved and other restrictions apply.

To see if your community is participating, visit ConservationPay$.com or call 1-800-270-9794 for more information.

Green Series – “Fertilizers: Organic or Chemical?”

Hosted by Vice Mayor Ken Thurston

Thursday, October 24 (6 pm – 7:30 pm)

City Hall Multi Purpose Rooms

Two Lauderhill Elementary Schools Get Funding for Magnet Programs

The School Board of Broward County has received a $11.9 million federal grant to create and expand on magnet programs.  Two of the programs under this grant will be at Royal Palm Elementary and Broward Estates Elementary.

Royal Palm Elementary will use these funds to create a new STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) program, and Broward Estates Elementary will add Engineering studies to its existing program.  

Both of these schools feed into Lauderhill 6-12 Lab which is a STEM magnet which is a requirement to get the grant.

Since the schools are underenrolled, other students outside the boundary lines of these schools can apply in December.  However, those within the boundary lines will automatically be eligible to attend. 

Greater Fort Lauderdale National College Fair – October 23

Students can register online at Browardschools.com/collegefair

        College-bound students and their families will be able to meet representatives from over 200 colleges and universities from around the country at the Greater Fort Lauderdale National College Fair, which takes place at the Fort Lauderdale/Broward County Convention Center on Wednesday, October 23, 2013, from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. and 5 – 8:30 p.m.  Sponsored by the National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC) and hosted by the Southern Association for College Admission Counseling (SACAC) and Broward County Public Schools, the college fair. The Convention Center requires visitors to the College Fair to present ID. Parking fee is $5.

        As the process of applying to and selecting a college becomes more and more competitive and complex, students and parents need all the help and information they can get. Attending a college fair is the best way to gather information about colleges and universities. The National College Fair program provides valuable resources for students and parents attempting to navigate the college-admission process.

        The college fair allows students and parents to meet one-on-one with admission representatives from a wide range of national and international, public and private, two-year and four-year colleges and universities. Participants will learn about admission requirements, financial aid, course offerings, and campus environment, as well as other information pertinent to the college-selection process. At the fair’s counseling center, students and parents can discuss their individual needs with college experts. Students with special needs will be able to learn about programs and services at colleges and universities for students with disabilities.

        Evening workshops will cover such topics as Financial Aid and the Bright Future Scholarship Program, Highly Competitive Colleges, Hot Jobs and Majors in the 21st Century and Preparing Your NCAA Athlete. Translators will also be available.

“The resources and opportunities that the National College Fair provides for students and their families are invaluable,” said Greg Ferguson, NACAC Director of National College Fairs Programs and Services.

        

        For registration, information and a schedule of evening information workshops, visit (browardschools.com/collegefair). Students are encouraged to register prior to attending the event. By pre-registering, students can print a barcode or use a QR code if they have a smart phone. With this code, students will be able to place themselves on the mailing lists for specific schools. They will also be able to inform these schools of their personal interests and intended majors.

        If you have questions about the Greater Fort Lauderdale National College Fair, contact College Fair Chair Ralph Aiello at 754-321-2119.

City of Lauderhill Commission and Broward County Commission Meet to Discuss Resolving Dispute over Annexation

On October 3, at the Central Regional Park, both Commissions of the City of Lauderhill and Broward County, met to discuss the possibility of how to resolve an ongoing dispute concerning the Annexation of St. George, Swap Shop and West Ken Lark in 2005.

At the time of Annexation, Agreements and other discussions had taken place to provide for the transfer of county assets to the City of Lauderhill.  A dispute developed as to the transfer of the water and sewer system.  To date, though the residents in these areas are in Lauderhill, their water and sewer is controlled by Broward County.  

The City of Lauderhill authorized the implementation of legal action to settle these disputes.  Under Chapter 164, before proceeding in Court, Florida Law requires the Staffs meeting to discuss settlement, followed by the Elected Bodies of each government to meet to discuss settlement.  If no agreement is met, then the parties must enter in Mediation.  Following Mediation, if no settlement is obtain, then Lauderhill may then proceed in Court.

On October 3 the two Commissions met and several proposals were given by both sides, but neither side could agree to a settlement.  It was decided that the respective Staff's would continue to discuss resolution for an additional 60 days (ending approximately December 3).  If still unsuccessful, then it is declared no agreement could be obtain and they would continue onto Mediation.

Ultimately the City Commission has already advised that they will proceed to litigation if the settlement discussions do not result in a agreeable solution.

BROWARD COUNTY TRANSIT BUS OPERATOR OPENINGS

Broward County Transit is currently seeking qualified applicants for bus operator positions. Required and
preferred skills along with employment benefits are:

BENEFITS
• Paid Training
• Annual Vacation and Sick Leave
• Medical Coverage and Retirement

SALARY
• $14.41 - $23.54 hourly
• $29,972.80 - $48,963.20 annually
(excluding overtime)

REQUIREMENTS
• Must enjoy working with people
• High School Diploma, GED, or previous transit operator experience
• Minimum 3 years driving experience
• Meet Driving Record Criteria and able to perform essential functions
• Willingness to work varied work schedules including nights, weekends, and holidays
• Must successfully complete job related tests and relevant training
• Knowledge of Florida and local motor vehicle regulations
• Good communication skills
• Ability to serve the public and fellow employees with honesty and integrity
• CDL class “B” with airbrake and “P” endorsement or Learner Permit
• Able to pass drug and alcohol test and criminal background check

HOW TO APPLY:
• Apply online at the County’s web site www.Broward.org/Careers
• Select “Job Titles” category
• Enter “bus operator” in the job title box (be sure to include quotes) and click “Search”
• Click on “Bus Operator”
• Job details will appear
• Click on “Apply” at the bottom of page
• Click “Register” to create a user name and password
• Follow application instructions and “Submit”

You may also visit the Broward County testing center at the Governmental Center located at:
115 S. Andrews Avenue, Room 509, Fort Lauderdale, FL

Libraries Host Free Affordable Care Act Information Sessions

Public invited to how-to workshops on health-care program basics and enrollment. 

Need information on your healthcare insurance options for 2014? Broward County Libraries will host a series of free Affordable Care Act workshops, presented by the League of Women voters and AARP.

The workshops will run from October 2 through November 16 at Broward County Library locations throughout the county. Each includes a PowerPoint presentation, informational hand-outs and a Q&A session. All workshops are free and open to the public.

Affordable Care Act 101 – Workshop Dates and Locations In the Lauderhill Area:
October 5 -11 a.m. to 12 noon, Lauderhill Towne Centre Library, 6399 W. Oakland Park Blvd.,Lauderhill, FL 33313, 954-357-6406
October 9 - 6 to 7 p.m., African-American Research Library and Cultural Center, 2650 Sistrunk Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, FL 33311, 954-357-6282
October 17 -11 a.m. to 12 noon, Lauderdale Lakes Library, 3580 W. Oakland Park Blvd., Lauderdale Lakes, 33311, 954-357-8650
October 24 - 11 a.m. to 12 noon, Lauderhill Mall Library, 4257 N.W. 12 St., Lauderhill, FL 33313, 954-357-7833
October 28 -11 a.m. to 12 noon, Tamarac Library, 8701 W. Commercial Blvd., Tamarac, FL 33351, 954-765-1500

Stakeholders Meetings at Broward Estates Elementary and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr Elementary

In preparation for the submission of State Options plans for Priority Schools, there will be several community meetings in conjunction with the school's SAC meeting.  District personnel will be involved with presenting information regarding the option plans that the school will choose for the 2014/15 school year.  

Schools have been asked to vigorously reach out to their stakeholders for their involvement and presence at these meetings.   The schools, dates, and time are listed below:

Broward Estates Elementary - 6:00pm - October 3 (Thursday)

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Elementary - 6:00pm - October 21 (Monday)

Lauderhill Lowers Property Tax Rate

For the 2013-2014 tax year, the City of Lauderhill has lowered its property tax rate from $7.4198   to $7.3698.  The Fire Rescue Fee stayed the same at $388.00 for residential property, 100% funds the cost of this service.  Also, the Voter Approved GO Bond assessment remained at $1.2804.

Lauderhill Has A Very Successful Community Shuttle Bus Program

Statistics have been released showing the success of the Lauderhill Community Shuttle Bus Program.  Every route far exceeds the minimum 7.1 passengers/revenue hour.  As an example, the following are typical numbers from August:

Route 1 - East Side clockwise:  24.5 passengers/revenue hour
Route 2 - Central:  31.6 passengers/revenue hour
Route 3 - Inverrary:  30.7 passengers/revenue hour
Route 4 - West Side:  24.9 passengers/revenue hour
Route 5 - East Side counter-clockwise:  27 passengers/revenue hour
Route 6 - West Ken Lark:  21.1 passengers/revenue hour
Route 7 - St. George/Broward Estate:  18.9 passengers/revenue hour

Lauderhill Mayor Wins USGBC Most Outstanding Green Elected Official for 2013

On September 21 at the US Green Building Councils Gala Verde Awards Dinner, Lauderhill Mayor Richard J Kaplan won the prestigious Most Outstanding Green Elected Official for 2013.  It is the first time a city official has won the award.

The 17 awards in a variety of areas are given to recognize and honor those outstanding projects, inspiration businesses, dedicated individuals, and instrumental Chapter members who are LEEDing the way to a more sustainable built environment in our South Florida community.

Notes of the Commission Meetings of September 12

On September 12, the City Commission met in a variety of meetings.  Before the Regular Commission Meeting, which was rescheduled to the 12th, numerous meetings were held relating to assessments for Safe Neighborhood District, Fire Rescue Fee, Nuisance Abatement, Stormwater, Garbage, and CRA.  The following are notes of interest from the Regular Commission Meeting (all items passed unanimously unless otherwise indicated):

PUBLIC HEARINGS----FIRST READING:

ORDINANCE NO. 13O-09-138:  SETTING AND ADOPTING THE 2013-2014 PROPERTY TAX LEVY FOR THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL AT THE OPERATING MILLAGE RATE OF 7.3698 PER ONE THOUSAND DOLLARS ($1,000); SETTING AND ADOPTING THE 2013-2014 VOTED DEBT SERVICE MILLAGE AT A RATE OF 1.2804 PER ONE THOUSAND DOLLARS ($1,000).

RESOLUTION NO. 13R-09-171:  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, 2013 AND ENDING SEPTEMBER 30, 2014; ADOPTING THE PROPOSED NON-AD VALOREM SPECIAL ASSESSMENT IN THE AMOUNT OF $500.00 PER PARCEL OF LAND PER YEAR.

RESOLUTION NO. 13R-09-173:   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, 2013 AND ENDING SEPTEMBER 30, 2014; ADOPTING THE PROPOSED NON-AD VALOREM SPECIAL ASSESSMENT IN THE AMOUNT OF $500.00 PER PARCEL OF LAND PER YEAR.

RESOLUTION NO. 13R-09-175:   APPROVING THE TENTATIVE PROPERTY TAX LEVY FOR THE MANORS OF INVERRARY SAFE NEIGHBORHOOD IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT AT THE PROPOSED MILLAGE RATE OF 2.0 MILLS FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCING OCTOBER 1, 2013 AND ENDING SEPTEMBER 30, 2014; ADOPTING THE PROPOSED NON-AD VALOREM SPECIAL ASSESSMENT IN THE AMOUNT OF $500.00 PER PARCEL OF LAND PER YEAR.

RESOLUTION NO. 13R-09-177:  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, 2013 AND ENDING SEPTEMBER 30, 2014; ADOPTING THE PROPOSED NON-AD VALOREM SPECIAL ASSESSMENT IN THE AMOUNT OF $250.00 PER PARCEL OF LAND PER YEAR.

ORDINANCES & PUBLIC HEARINGS - FIRST READING:

ORDINANCE NO: 13O-08-129:   AMENDING SECTION 2-159, TO AMEND THE ORDER OF BUSINESS ACCORDINGLY (REQUESTED BY MAYOR RICHARD J. KAPLAN).

ORDINANCE NO: 13O-08-130:   AMENDING THE CODE OF ORDINANCES, SECTION 2-163, DEBATE AND DECORUM, PROVIDING TIME LIMITS ON GENERAL PRESENTATIONS; PROVIDING SECTION REGARDING OPPORTUNITY TO BE HEARD  (REQUESTED BY COMMISSIONER HOWARD BERGER).

ORDINANCE NO. 13O-08-136:   SECTION 2-2.5 BOARDS AND COMMITTEES - COMPOSITION AND APPOINTMENTS GENERALLY;  CREATING SUBSECTION (I), PUBLIC COMMENT PORTION OF MEETINGS; CREATING SUBSECTION (J), DESIGNATION OF CHAIRMAN, VICE-CHAIRMAN, AND ACTING CHAIRS  (REQUESTED BY MAYOR RICHARD J. KAPLAN.).

ORDINANCES & PUBLIC HEARINGS - SECOND READING:

ORDINANCE NO. 13O-08-135:  AMENDING SECTION 21-47, SCHEDULE OF RATES AND CHARGES, TO APPROVE AMENDMENTS TO THE WATER AND SEWER AVAILABILITY RATES BASED UPON THE JUNE 2013 CONSUMER PRICE INDEX FOR INFLATION.

ORDINANCE NO. 13O-08-137:  GARBAGE, REFUSE AND TRASH; APPROVING THE AMENDMENT TO THE SCHEDULE OF RATES, FEES AND CHARGES PURSUANT TO THE FRANCHISE AGREEMENTS WITH REPUBLIC SERVICES OF FLORIDA, LIMITED PARTNERSHIP D/B/A ALL SERVICE REFUSE.

RESOLUTIONS:

RESOLUTION NO. 13R-09-180:   SUPPORTING EFFORTS TO REDUCE GUN VIOLENCE AND ILLEGAL FIREARMS TRAFFICKING THROUGH MORE RESPONSIBLE GUN SALES AND MARKETING PRACTICES, DIRECTING THE CITY MANAGER TO COORDINATE WITH THE POLICE CHIEF TO PARTNER WITH OTHER MUNICIPALITIES TO CREATE A COALITION IN SUPPORT OF THIS INITIATIVE AND TO WORK WITH GUN AND AMMUNITION SUPPLIERS TO ENCOURAGE THE CONSIDERATION OF SALES AND MARKETING SAFEGUARDS, AND DIRECTING THE CITY CLERK TO SEND A CERTIFIED COPY OF THIS RESOLUTION TO ALL SOUTH FLORIDA MUNICIPALITIES, THE FLORIDA LEAGUE OF CITIES, INC., ALL MEMBERS OF FLORIDA’S CONGRESSIONAL DELEGATION, AND TO THE OBAMA ADMINISTRATION (REQUESTED BY COMMISSIONER M. MARGARET BATES).

RESOLUTION NO. 13R-09-181:   APPROVING THE DONATIONS OF FUNDS IN THE TOTAL AMOUNT OF $8,780.00 AS RECOMMENDED BY THE EDUCATIONAL ADVISORY BOARD TO THE LIST OF DESIGNATED ENTITIES; PROVIDING FOR PAYMENT FROM BUDGET CODE NUMBER 001-101-8126.

RESOLUTION NO. 13R-09-182:  APPROVING AND ADOPTING THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL’S 5-YEAR CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PLAN FOR FISCAL YEARS 2014 THROUGH 2018, WHICH MAY BE UPDATED PERIODICALLY.

RESOLUTION NO. 13R-09-186:  APPROVING THE BUDGET ADJUSTMENT TO TRANSFER FUNDS WITHIN THE CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT FUND TO CONSTRUCTION CONTINGENCY TO COVER FUTURE EXPENDITURES FOR CAPITAL PROJECTS.

RESOLUTION NO. 13R-09-187:   APPROVING THE REQUEST FROM THE LAUDERHILL HOUSING AUTHORITY TO WAIVE BUILDING AND ENGINEERING PERMIT FEES FOR THE FIFTEEN SINGLE FAMILY HOMES TO BE CONSTRUCTED IN CENTRAL LAUDERHILL.

RESOLUTION NO. 13R-09-191:   EXERCISING THE LAST OPTION TO EXTEND THE PROFESSIONAL SERVICE AGREEMENT BETWEEN LIMOUSINES OF SOUTH FLORIDA, INC. AND THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL FOR SHUTTLE BUS SERVICE FOR A ONE (1) YEAR TERM WITH THE PRICING FOR ROUTES 1 THROUGH 5 AT $34.25/PER HOUR AND ROUTES 6 AND 7 AT $55.00/PER HOUR EFFECTIVE AUGUST 11, 2013 THROUGH AUGUST 10, 2014.

RESOLUTION NO. 13R-09-192:  APPROVING THE PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL AND T'ESSENCE/TERRY STONOM DANCE ACADEMY, INC. TO PROVIDE DANCE CLASSES AT THE SPORTS PARK AND VETERAN'S PARK.

RESOLUTION NO. 13R-09-193:  APPROVING THE PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL AND AMERICAN ARTS, INC. TO PROVIDE TAE KWON DO CLASSES AT VETERAN'S PARK.

RESOLUTION NO. 13R-09-194:  APPROVING THE PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL AND NATIONAL SPORT JUDO AND NATIONAL JUDO TRAINING CENTER, INC. TO PROVIDE JUDO AND KENDO CLASSES AT VETERAN'S PARK.

RESOLUTION NO. 13R-09-195:  APPROVING THE WAIVER OF COMPETITIVE BIDDING; APPROVING THE PIGGYBACK PURCHASE OF MARKED POLICE VEHICLES INCLUDING TEN (10) V-6 FORD POLICE INTERCEPTOR SEDANS AND FOUR (4) V-6 FORD POLICE INTERCEPTOR SUVS AT A TOTAL COST NOT TO EXCEED $373,140.00 FROM DUVAL FORD BASED UPON BIDS SOLICITED BY THE FLORIDA SHERIFF’S ASSOCIATION.

RESOLUTION NO. 13R-09-196:   APPROVING THE WAIVER OF COMPETITIVE BIDDING; APPROVING THE PIGGYBACK PURCHASE OF FIVE (5) 2014 FORD FUSION-S SEDANS UNMARKED POLICE VEHICLES AT A TOTAL COST NOT TO EXCEED $92,285.00 FROM DON REID FORD BASED UPON BIDS SOLICITED BY THE FLORIDA SHERIFF’S ASSOCIATION.

RESOLUTION NO. 13R-09-197:   APPROVING THE WAIVER OF COMPETITIVE BIDDING; APPROVING THE PIGGYBACK PURCHASE OF EMERGENCY EQUIPMENT TO OUTFIT MARKED POLICE VEHICLES INCLUDING TEN (10) V-6 FORD POLICE INTERCEPTOR SEDANS AND FOUR (4) V-6 FORD POLICE INTERCEPTOR SUVS AT A TOTAL COST NOT TO EXCEED $64,293.00 FROM AMERICAN INTERCEPTORS BASED UPON BIDS SOLICITED BY THE FLORIDA SHERIFF’S ASSOCIATION.

QUASI-JUDICIAL MATTERS, FIRST READING:

RESOLUTION NO. 13R-09-198:  GRANTING TO TOBOLSKI, LLC A SPECIAL EXCEPTION USE DEVELOPMENT ORDER, WITH CONDITIONS, TO ALLOW IN THE GENERAL COMMERCIAL ZONING DISTRICT A RESTAURANT BAR WITH INDOOR LIVE ENTERTAINMENT AT 1451 NW 31ST AVENUE.

Broward County Transit to Hold Community Meetings on Proposed Changes to Routes 18 and 441 Breeze

Broward County Transit (BCT) has scheduled community meetings to provide the public with information on the proposed service changes to Route 18 and 441 Breeze, in advance of a public hearing to be scheduled by the Broward County Commission for October 2013.

The community meetings will allow bus passengers to review and comment on the proposed service changes which would be effective in early-January 2014, as follows:

• Tuesday, September 17, 6 - 7:30 p.m.
Central Broward Regional Park, Field House
3700 Northwest 11 Place, Lauderhill
(Northeast corner of 441 and Sunrise Boulevard)
Bus Routes 18, 36, 40, 81, walk from Lauderhill Transfer Facility

Customers will have new options for travel along State Road 7/441 with these proposed service changes. This includes more weekend service, extended early morning/late night service, and extended limited-stop service. These service changes will provide more consistent timing between buses, improve service reliability, and address overcrowding conditions. 

Following is a brief description of the proposed changes for routes 18 and 441 Breeze:

Route 18 – The current route will be modified to provide local bus service along State Road 7/441 between Lauderhill Mall and the Golden Glades Park and Ride in Miami Gardens. Customers travelling northbound from Golden Glades Park and Ride to Lauderhill Mall would not be affected during the week. On the weekends, these customers would have more frequent service. Customers travelling to Sandalfoot Cove Boulevard/Sample Road/Turtle Creek Drive or any location north of Lauderhill Mall would have to transfer at Lauderhill Mall.

Route 19 – The “new” route will provide local bus service along State Road 7/441 between Lauderhill Mall and Sandalfoot Cove Boulevard in west Boca Raton. Customers travelling southbound from Sandalfoot Cove Boulevard/Sample Road /Turtle Creek Drive to Lauderhill Mall would not be affected during the week. On the weekends, these customers would have more frequent service. Customers travelling to Golden Glades Park and Ride or any location south of Lauderhill Mall would have to transfer at Lauderhill Mall.

Route 441 “Breeze” Limited-Stop – Expanded mid-day weekday service will provide limited-stop service along State Road 7/441 between the Golden Glades Park and Ride in Miami Gardens and Turtle Creek Boulevard in Coral Springs. This includes more frequent service and the addition of five (5) new bus stops at Johnson Street in Hollywood; Northwest 19 Street in Lauderhill; NW 26 Street in Lauderhill; Northwest 41 Street in Lauderdale Lakes, and Southgate Boulevard in Margate.

Persons unable to attend the community meetings should send comments to: Broward County Transit, 1 North University Drive, Room 2401B, Plantation, FL 33324, or to bctsurvey@broward.org. 

U.S. Green Building Council South Florida Chapter Announces Finalist Nominees for GalaVerde Awards

The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) South Florida Chapter has announced the Finalist Nominees for the nonprofit organization's upcoming GalaVerde: The 2013 LEEDership and Green Awards Program.  The awards ceremony will be held September 21, 2013.

With the Weston-based The Spinnaker Group as Presenting Sponsor, the fourth annual GalaVerde will recognize and honor those outstanding projects, inspirational businesses, dedicated individuals, and instrumental Chapter members who are leading the way to a more sustainably built environment in our South Florida community.

GalaVerde Awards Finalists for the Most Outstanding Green Elected Official are:

• Michael Gongora -- City of Miami Beach Commissioner
• Richard Kaplan -- City of Lauderhill Mayor
• Mark Sarnoff -- City of Miami Commissioner
• Philip Stoddard -- City of South Miami Mayor

LAUDERHILL FLOODPLAIN MANAGEMENT PLAN

Most of the City of Lauderhill’s improvements were in the area of canal bank stabilization and restricting of the swales and canal embankments.  The City has also been maintaining the existing drainage system by continual cleaning of culverts, catch basins, and retention areas.  Upcoming projects include paving and restructuring of the swales and canal embankment in various canals as well as a culvert replacement.  However, projects that were reported in last year's progress report are shown below with updated information:

1.            Continue with the drainage system maintenance including catch basins, pipes, and culvert cleaning – on-going

2.            Hired a contractor to assist with culvert and catch basin cleaning to include inventory updates – in progress

3.          Roadway improvements including installation of catch basins and swale reconfiguration NW 55 Avenue – in progress

4.     Continue monitoring and stabilization at hot spot areas including Westwind Lake, Canals 20, NW 33 Street – in progress

5.            Canal 25 and 26 bank stabilization/repair – completed

6.            Embankment stabilization canal 29 – completed

7.           NW 47 Avenue roadway including culvert replacement and installation of catch basins and french drains – complete

8.            Culvert Replacement at NW 50 St. and NW 82 Ave. – in progress

9.            Roadway and Swale improvements on Inverrary Blvd. – planned for 2014

10.         NW 19^th Street roadway and culvert improvement – County project planned for 2014

One of the most exciting accomplishments this year was the CRS Class upgrade.  From the beginning of the CRS membership year in 1978, the City has been a Class 9 which allowed for a 5% discount on flood insurance premiums.  With the new Class 7 designation, our residents and business owners located within the Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHA) are now eligible for a 15% discount.

New FEMA flood maps were released and we are waiting for the final letter of determination announcing the acceptance.  Once that letter has been received, there will be a six month waiting period at which time Broward County will adopt the new maps.  Once that has taken place, the City will also adopt the new.  There is currently no time limit for the letter of determination issuance.

Lauderhill Purchases New Fire Truck

On August 26, the City of Lauderhill put its newest Fire Truck into service.  The pumper truck is assigned to Fire Station 110 on 31st Ave.

Oakland Park Blvd Transit Public Workshop

On Tuesday, September 10 from 4 to 7 PM, at the Lauderhill City Hall, a Public Workshop will be held concerning the Oakland Park Blvd., Transit Alternatives Analysis Study.

This study, and the proposed improvements, will run on Oakland Park Blvd. from the Sawgrass Expressway to A1A.

For more information go to www.oaklandparkboulevardtransit study.com or contact the FDOT Project Manager, Ms. Khalilah Ffrench, PE at 954-677-7898.

Notes of the Commission Meeting of August 26

On August 26, the City Commission met and the following are notes of interest from the meeting (all items below passed unanimously unless otherwise indicated):

PROCLAMATIONS

A. A PROCLAMATION PROCLAIMING AUGUST 26, 2013 AS LOOBY INNIS DAY IN THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL, FOR HIS SERVICE AND DESIRE TO SEE OUR LAUDERHILL RESIDENTS HEALTHY THROUGH HIS EXERCISE PROGRAMS AT THE LAUDERHILL SPORTS PARK.

B. A PROCLAMATION PROCLAIMING SEPTEMBER 2013 AS NATIONAL CHILDHOOD OBESITY AWARENESS MONTH IN THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL.

ORDINANCES & PUBLIC HEARINGS - FIRST READING

ORDINANCE NO. 13O-08-135:  AMENDING THE CODE OF ORDINANCES CHAPTER 21, WATER AND SEWER SERVICE, SCHEDULE OF RATES AND CHARGES, TO APPROVE AMENDMENTS TO THE WATER AND SEWER AVAILABILITY RATES BASED UPON THE JUNE 2013 CONSUMER PRICE INDEX FOR INFLATION; PROVIDING THAT SAID RATES AND CHARGES ARE NECESSARY TO COVER THE COSTS OF PROVIDING SAID SERVICES AND ARE IMPLEMENTED TO ENABLE THE CITY TO PROCEED WITH ITS 5-YEAR CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PLAN; PROVIDING FOR THE NEW RATE STRUCTURE TO COMMENCE ON OCTOBER 1, 2013.

RESOLUTIONS

RESOLUTION NO. 13R-08-154:   APPROVING THE DONATION OF FUNDS IN THE AMOUNT OF $2,500.00 AS RECOMMENDED BY THE EDUCATIONAL ADVISORY BOARD TO ENDEAVOUR PRIMARY LEARNING CENTER TO SUPPORT THE LITERACY/ART PROGRAM.

RESOLUTION NO. 13R-08-158:  APPROVING THE REGIONAL INTERLOCAL AGREEMENT BETWEEN BROWARD
COUNTY AND THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL PROVIDING FOR COOPERATIVE PARTICIPATION IN A REGIONAL PUBLIC SAFETY INTRANET DISPATCH SYSTEM TO BE OPERATED AND WHOLLY FUNDED BY BROWARD COUNTY.

RESOLUTION NO. 13R-08-162:   URGING THE FLORIDA LEGISLATURE TO PASS LEGISLATION TO REPEAL CERTAIN SECTIONS OF FLORIDA STATUTES THAT PREVENT LOCAL GOVERNMENTS FROM REGULATING AND/OR PROHIBITING OUTDOOR SMOKING IN PUBLIC OWNED PARKS AND FACILITIES; ENCOURAGING PROTECTION FROM SECOND-HAND TOBACCO SMOKING.

RESOLUTION NO. 13R-08-163:   ENCOURAGING  PERSONS NOT TO SMOKE IN PUBLIC PARKS AND FACILITIES TO HELP REDUCE THE IMPACT AND EFFECTS OF SECOND HAND SMOKE.

RESOLUTION NO. 13R-08-164:  APPROVING THE AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL AND BFOURSPORTS, LLC D/B/A I-9 SPORTS TO OPERATE THE I-9 YOUTH SPORTS ACTIVITIES ON SATURDAY MORNINGS ON THE DESIGNATED DATES AT WEST WIND PARK.

RESOLUTION NO. 13R-08-165:   APPROVING THE DONATION OF FUNDS IN THE AMOUNT OF $1,000.00 FROM THE STATE LOCAL LAW ENFORCEMENT TRUST FUND (LETF) TO SPORTS ADVANCING KIDS EDUCATION (S.A.K.E.) TO SUPPORT DRUG TREATMENT, DRUG EDUCATION OR DRUG PREVENTION, CRIME PREVENTION, SAFE NEIGHBORHOOD,  OR SCHOOL RESOURCE OFFICER PROGRAMS IN ACCORDANCE WITH STATE GUIDELINES.

Rent the Activity Room/Pavilion in Sadkin Community Center

The Activity Room, Small Meeting Room and Pavilion are available to rent at Sadkin Community Center, 1176 NW 42nd Way.  For more information on rental rates for both residents and non-residents call 954-321-2450.

Yoga at Veterans Park

Yoga classes are being held at Veterans Park, 7600 NW 50th Street, in the NW section of Lauderhill. Classes are on Thursday nights.  For more information call 954-572-1459.

Zumba Fitness at John Mullin Park

Zumba Fitness is now available on Thursday nights at the John Mullin Park off 55th Ave., by the Aquatics Center.  For more information call 954-486-8450.

Fitness Classes at Sadkin Center

Fitness classes available at the Sadkin Center for only $20/month. All fitness levels welcome.  

Tubo Kick, Yoga Stretch, Zumba (including New Aqua Zumba), Kickboxing,  Step Bench Class, Yoga, Cardio Strength, Body Scuplting, Aerobics, and Boot Camps are available.

Call 954-321-2450

Sadkin Center is located at 1176 NW 42nd Way

Aqua Zumba is at Wolk Park Pool across the street from Sadkin Center

Lifeguard Training

Learn how to save lives by becoming an American Red Cross Trained Lifeguard.

Lifeguard Training Sessions are coming up:

 

Session 7:  September 14, 15, 21 and 22

Session 8:  October 12, 13, 19 and 20

Session 9:  November 9, 10, 16 & 17

Session 10:  December 14, 15, 21 and 22

 

Prerequisites:

 

Swim 200 yards continuously

Be at least 15 years old

 

Cost:  $200/Session

 

Sessions are giving at Veterans Park Pool, 7600 NW 50th Street, Lauderhill, FL  33351

 

For more information please call 954-572-1460

 

Facebook.com/LauderhillPALS

Repairs On Northwest 19 Street in Lauderhill

Broward County Highway and Bridge Maintenance Division will be performing repairs on Northwest 19th Street at the canal crossing located 700 feet west of U.S. Highway 441/State Road 7, in the City of Lauderhill from August 12 through September 16, barring unforeseen conditions or weather delays.

The public should be aware of the following:

• Construction will be performed Monday through Saturday, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. to shorten the project duration.

• Westbound and eastbound traffic flow will be continuous because the project is divided into several phases. No detours are anticipated during the length of the project.

• In order to maintain a constant traffic flow in both directions during the construction period, temporary lane diversions will be employed using the appropriate signs and channeling devices.

• All driveways will remain accessible during construction.

• Pedestrian access will be maintained at all times using the existing sidewalks.

Any questions should be directed to Rares Petrica, project manager of the Broward County Highway and Bridge Maintenance Division, at 954-612-0857 or email rpetrica@broward.org.

Government Finance Officers Association gives Lauderhill Budget the Distinguished Budget Award

The City of Lauderhill has been awarded Distinguished Budget Presentation Award by the Government Finance Officers Association. This award is the highest form of recognition in government budgeting and represents a significant achievement by the city.

It reflects the commitment of the governing body and staff to meeting the highest principals of governmental budgeting.  In order to receive the budget award, the city had to satisfy nationally recognized guidelines for effective budget presentation.  These guidelines are designed to assess how well an entity's budget serves as a policy document, a financial plan, an operations guide, and a communications device.

Budget documents must be rated "proficient" in all four categories and the fourteen mandatory criteria within those categories, to receive the award.

In addition a Certificate of Recognition for Budget presentation is also presented to those that have been primarily responsible for its having achieved the award.  This has been presented to  the Finance Department of the City of Lauderhill.

Castle Hill Elementary School Garners State Honors for Top Parental Involvement Program

Student achievement bolstered by innovative program

Castle Hill Elementary School in Lauderhill, recently received state honors for its outstanding parent and family engagement program. Commissioner of Education Dr. Tony Bennett recognized Castle Hill’s Everyone Counts Family Program as one of the state’s most exemplary parental involvement programs on Saturday, July 13 at the Florida Parent Teacher (PTA) Association 2013 Leadership Conference in Palm Harbor. In all, 10 top parental programs were honored statewide.  

The Florida Department of Education Parental Involvement Recognition Program honors the programs that successfully engage parents in meaningful school-based programs.

“Parents are the foundation of their child’s learning, and I am honored to recognize Florida’s schools for engaging parents through these innovative programs,” said Commissioner Bennett. “We know that parents play a key role in our education system and Florida is fortunate to have a wide array of incredible programs that support student achievement.”

The program is made possible through a long-standing partnership with State Farm Insurance. Select schools are recognized for developing and supporting parent involvement initiatives in their school community. The awards provide an opportunity for schools to share successful ideas statewide and encourage replication of programs that promote all levels of parental participation in education.

District volunteer/family involvement directors submitted school award applications and nominations. Award-winning parent involvement programs represent various facets of family involvement such as learning at home, parenting, nurturing, volunteering and communicating with school policymakers and local advocates.

GYBO - Lauderhill Get Your Business On Line Free

In a joint program with the City of Lauderhill and Google, Mayor Kaplan has been able to arrange for Lauderhill Businesses and Organizations to get a Free Web Site, Free Domain Name, Free Mobile App., Free Hosting and Free Business Listing for the first year.

I PSA has been created to help explain some more of this program at http://www.lauderhill-fl.gov/GYBO/GYBO.html.

To sign up for the program go to www.gybo.com.

We are working on holding a Workshop Seminar to businesses and organization to sign up and provide assistance to create and launch their web site.  Look for it later this year or possible early next year.

National Nights Out

Community Awareness Day - Health and Resource Fair

Saturday, August 10 from 10 am to 3 pm at the Sadkin Community Center

1176 NW 42nd Way, Lauderhill.

FREE ADMISSION

Free Health Screenings and Testing

Meet Local Social Service Agency Representatives for 

GED, Housing Immigration, Pregnancy, Elderly Care and Finance

FREE BACKPACK GIVEAWAY!! .... FIRST COME FIRST SERVE

Mobilize to Immunize: Summer Health Fairs from Broward Health

Broward Health Community Health Services will host a series of summer health fairs to provide children and their families access to immunizations and school physicals for this upcoming school year. Multiple health fairs are scheduled with Broward Health staff that can accommodate Spanish and Creole speaking families residing in our community.

These immunization fairs are designed to safeguard the health of children against diseases such as pertussis (whooping cough), measles, rubella, influenza and other diseases adversely influencing the health status of school age children.

Health Fair Dates and Locations in the Lauderhill Area

Wednesday, 7/31/2013 from 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM

Monday, 8/19/2013 from 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM 

Lauderhill Middle School Health Center
1901 N.W. 49th Ave.,
Lauderhill, FL 33313 

New Flood Maps Coming To Lauderhill

New Flood Maps have been created which, upon adoption, will change the flood zone of many in Lauderhill.  Some properties may no longer be in a flood zone requiring mandatory flood insurance.

The maps will show a two (2) points class reduction in the Community Rating System (CRS) making us a Class 7 now (presently the city is a Class 9).   That means that our residents qualify for a 15% discount on their flood insurance premiums from  the previous 5% discount.   The savings for Lauderhill residents would be in the range of $500k/year.

The new flood maps have not been adopted by Broward County yet because there is still an outstanding dispute with one of the communities.  This matter has been ongoing for over a year.  There is no time limit for the dispute but once it is resolved, FEMA will issue a Letter of Determination and then, six months later, the new maps will go into effect.   

An article is being prepared an article for the upcoming Spotlight that outlines  this information. 

Mayor Richard J. Kaplan and the City of Lauderhill Present: "LAUDERHILL GET YOUR BUSINESS OR ORGANIZATION ONLINE with Google"

LAUDERHILL HAS JOINED THE CITY CHALLENGE so Join Lauderhill @ www.gybo.com/florida/get-online.

97% of people looking for a business do so on line.
58% of businesses in the US are not on line.
68% of businesses in Florida are not on line.
After going on line businesses average an increase of business of 40%.

So why isn't your business on line?

Get a Free 3 page Website and Design, Free Local Business Listing, Free Customized Domain Name, Free mobile Site, Free Web Hosting for an entire year.  Only $6.99/month after the 1st year.

For more information go to www.lauderhill-fl.gov/gybo.pdf.

NOTE:  I have successfully taken advantage of this service and my own business is now on line.  Check out the Law Offices of Richard J. Kaplan, PA at www.attorneyrkaplan.com.  I would be willing to post other examples of Lauderhill businesses using this service if it is entered under  comments.

Notes of the CRA Meeting and Regular Commission Meeting of July 8

On July 8, the City Commission met as the CRA Board and Lauderhill City Commission.  The following are notes of interest (all items passed unanimously unless otherwise indicated):

CRA MEETING:

RESOLUTION NO. 13R-07-14:   AUTHORIZING THE BROWARD REDEVELOPMENT PROGRAM GRANT APPLICATION FOR THE “LALLOS ROTI AT THE WATER WHEEL” REDEVELOPMENT PROJECT FOR GRANT FUNDS IN AN AMOUNT UP TO $150,000.00 FOR MATCHING FUNDS FOR THE INTERIOR BUILD-OUT OF COMMERCIAL SPACE; AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION OF THE LETTER OF ENDORSEMENT; PROVIDING THAT ANY MATCHING FUNDS WOULD BE PAID FOR BY THE DEVELOPER.

RESOULTION NO. 13R-07-15:  AUTHORIZING THE BROWARD REDEVELOPMENT PROGRAM GRANT APPLICATION FOR THE VILLAGE CENTER FOR GRANT FUNDS IN AN AMOUNT UP TO $150,000.00 FOR MATCHING FUNDS FOR THE INTERIOR BUILD-OUT OF COMMERCIAL SPACE; AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION OF THE LETTER OF ENDORSEMENT; PROVIDING THAT ANY MATCHING FUNDS WOULD BE PAID FOR BY THE DEVELOPER.

REGULAR COMMISSION MEETING:

ORDINANCES & PUBLIC HEARINGS - SECOND READING

ORDINANCE NO. 13O-06-125:  APPROVING THE SUPPLEMENTAL APPROPRIATION OF ADDITIONAL REVENUES AND EXPENDITURES TO THE FISCAL YEAR 2013 BUDGET IN THE AMOUNT OF $1,558,669.00 TO ACCOUNT FOR THE COST OF RESURFACING AND MAKING IMPROVEMENTS TO THE INVERRARY BOULEVARD ROADWAY.

RESOLUTIONS

RESOLUTION NO. 13R-07-137:   APPROVING THE AWARD OF BID TO GENERAL ASPHALT, INC., IN THE AMOUNT OF $1,416,972.25 FOR MILLING AND RESURFACING OF INVERRARY BOULEVARD BETWEEN OAKLAND PARK BOULEVARD AND UNIVERSITY DRIVE WITHIN THE CITY OF LAUDERHIL, INCLUDING MILLING, PAVING, STRIPING, MINOR RECONSTRUCTION AND LIMITED DRAINAGE IMPROVEMENT AS WELL AS TURN LANE MODIFICATIONS SOUTH OF N.W. 44TH STREET; PROVIDING FOR PAYMENT FROM BUDGET CODE NUMBER 450-925-6525.

RESOLUTION NO. 13R-07-138:   AUTHORIZING THE BROWARD REDEVELOPMENT PROGRAM GRANT APPLICATION FOR THE VILLAGE CENTER FOR GRANT FUNDS IN AN AMOUNT UP TO $150,000.00 FOR MATCHING FUNDS FOR THE INTERIOR BUILD-OUT OF COMMERCIAL SPACE; AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION OF THE LETTER OF ENDORSEMENT; PROVIDING THAT ANY MATCHING FUNDS WOULD BE PAID FOR BY THE DEVELOPER.

RESOLUTION 13R-07-139:  AUTHORIZING THE BROWARD REDEVELOPMENT PROGRAM GRANT APPLICATION FOR THE “LALLOS ROTI AT THE WATER WHEEL” REDEVELOPMENT PROJECT FOR GRANT FUNDS IN AN AMOUNT UP TO $150,000.00 FOR MATCHING FUNDS FOR THE INTERIOR BUILD-OUT OF COMMERCIAL SPACE; AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION OF THE LETTER OF ENDORSEMENT; PROVIDING THAT ANY MATCHING FUNDS WOULD BE PAID FOR BY THE DEVELOPER.

NEW BUSINESS

A. Schedule Preliminary Budget Hearing for Fiscal Year 2014 - July 24 at 6:00 PM
B. Schedule Budget Hearings for Fiscal Year 2014 (1st and 2nd Reading) - September 12 at 5 PM & 26 at 6 PM
C. Cancel September 11, 2013 Commission Meeting (scheduled in approved Commission Calendar)

Lauderhill Property Values Increase

The latest numbers from the Property Appraisers Office have come out showing that Lauderhill is enjoying a 4.36% improvement in property values from 2012.  Earlier this year it was stated as 5.1% and then 3.5%.  So it is reasonably expected that the final value percentage improvement will continue to fluctuate until September.

In Safe Neighborhood Districts the change in valuation presently is,

WINDERMERE/TREE GARDENS SAFE NEIGHBORHOOD  +9.6%
HABITAT SAFE NEIGHBORHOOD  +14.41%
ISLES OF INVERRARY SAFE NEIGHBORHOOD  -1.65%
MANORS OF INVERRARY SAFE NEIGHBORHOOD  +23.69%

Get a $10 Lifetime Senior Pass to U.S. National Parks

One of the best senior travel bargains anywhere is a low-cost lifetime national park pass that admits seniors free of charge to most U.S. national parks, forests, refuges, monuments and recreation areas, from Denali National Park in Alaska to the Florida Everglades.

Senior Pass Eligibility
As part of the American the Beautiful - National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass program, U.S. citizens or permanent residents who are at least 62 years old can purchase a Senior Pass for a one-time processing fee of $10. This Senior Pass to national parks and lands offers benefits to you and your traveling companions.

Senior Pass to National Parks Benefits

• In National Parks that charge an entrance or standard amenity fee, the Senior Pass admits you and the passengers in your car or other private vehicle.
• In National Parks where a "per person" entrance fee is charged, the Senior Pass admits you plus three other adults (who need not be seniors). This is an especially good deal if you are also traveling with grandchildren, because children under 16 have free admission.
• The lifetime national parks Senior Pass also gives seniors a 50 percent discount on federal use fees charged for camping, swimming, boat launching, parking and tours.
• In some cases where use fees are charged, only the person named on the Senior Pass will be given the 50 percent discount.
• The senior pass is non-transferable and does not cover or reduce special recreation permit fees or concession fees charged by private companies.

How to Buy a National Parks Lifetime Senior Pass
The Senior Pass to national parks cannot be purchased by mail or online. It must be purchased in person at a federal area where entrance fees are charged, or at regional offices of the National Park Service, the U.S. Forest Service or the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Proof of age, such as a valid driver's license, is required at the time you purchase your senior pass.

For more information about the National Parks Lifetime Senior Pass, call the National Park Service at 1-888-ASK-USGS.

Other Park Passes from the National Park Service

• Access Pass: A Free Pass for People with Disabilities
  The Access Pass is a special permit for people of any age who are medically determined to be blind or have other permanent disabilities. It offers the same benefits as the Senior Pass, but it is completely free. No processing fee is charged for the Access Pass.
  Like the Senior Pass to national parks, the Access Pass cannot be purchased by mail or online. It must be obtained in person at a federal area where an entrance fee is charged.
  To qualify for the free Access Pass to national parks, you will need to provide one of the following: a statement from a licensed physician, a document issued by a Federal agency such as the Veteran's Administration, proof of Social Security Disability Income or Supplemental Security Income, or a document issued by a state agency such as a vocational rehabilitation agency.
• A One-Year National Parks Pass for People Under Age 62
  If you are under age 62 and do not qualify for a Senior Pass to national parks, you can still save money by purchasing an Annual Pass, which costs $80 and is good for one year from the date of purchase.
  At national parks, monuments and recreation areas that charge a per-vehicle fee, the Annual Pass to national parks admits you and your passengers free of charge.
  Where a per-person fee is charged, the pass admits you plus three other adults (children under 16 are admitted free).
  There are three ways to purchase an Annual Pass to U.S. National Parks:
  • In person at a national park that charges an entrance fee
  • Online from the National Park Service Annual Pass site
  • By calling 1-888-ASK-USGS, Ext. 1
• Free Pass to National Parks for Volunteers
  If you enjoy the national parks and want to help out, become a volunteer and get an annual pass for free. You'll receive the same discounts and national park benefits as the Annual Pass described above, but the Volunteer Pass is free to volunteers who provide 500 hours of cumulative service.
  
  For more information about the Volunteer Pass to our national parks, call 1-888-ASK-USGS.

Notes of the Commission Meeting of June 24

On June 24, the City Commission met and the following are notes of interest (all items passed unanimously unless other indicated, and also Mayor Kaplan was absent since he was in attendance at a Mayors Conference):

ORDINANCES & PUBLIC HEARINGS - FIRST READING

ORDINANCE NO. 13O-06-125:  APPROVING THE SUPPLEMENTAL APPROPRIATION OF ADDITIONAL REVENUES AND EXPENDITURES TO THE FISCAL YEAR 2013 BUDGET IN THE  AMOUNT OF $1,558,669.00 TO ACCOUNT FOR THE COST OF RESURFACING AND MAKING   IMPROVEMENTS TO THE INVERRARY BOULEVARD ROADWAY.

ORDINANCES & PUBLIC HEARINGS - SECOND READING

ORDINANCE NO. 13O-06-122 :   APPROVING SUPPLEMENTAL APPROPRIATION OF ADDITIONAL REVENUES AND EXPENDITURES TO THE FISCAL YEAR 2013 BUDGET IN THE AMOUNT OF $26,000.00 TO ACCOUNT FOR THE POLICE DEPARTMENT YOUTH SUMMER EMPOWERMENT CAMP.

ORDINANCE NO. 13O-06-123:  APPROVING THE SALE AND PURCHASE AGREEMENT FOR THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL TO PURCHASE THE PROPERTY LOCATED AT 3300 INVERRARY BOULEVARD, LAUDERHILL, FLORIDA, FROM THE BRISSETT RAY OF HOPE FOUNDATION FOR THE PURCHASE PRICE OF $1,360,000.00.

ORDINANCE NO. 13O-06-124:  APPROVING SUPPLEMENTAL APPROPRIATION OF ADDITIONAL REVENUES AND EXPENDITURES TO THE FISCAL YEAR 2013 BUDGET IN THE AMOUNT OF $8,000.00 TO ACCOUNT FOR THE LAUDERHILL SUMMER JUNIOR GOLF PROGRAM.

ORDINANCES & PUBLIC HEARINGS - THIRD READING

ORDINANCE NO. 13O-05-118:   AMENDING THE CODE OF ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL,  LOCAL BUSINESS TAXES TO RATES BY FIVE PERCENT (5%) AS IS REASONABLE AND NECESSARY AND AS IS AUTHORIZED BY FLORIDA STATUTES, SECTION 205.0535(4).

RESOLUTIONS

RESOLUTION NO. 13R-06-128:  AUTHORIZING THE APPLICATION FOR, THE LETTER OF INTENT FOR THE “LET’S PLAY SHADE GRANT,” AND THE GRANT AGREEMENT PROVIDING FOR GRANT FUNDS IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $25,000.00 FROM KABOOM! TO PROVIDE A NEW SHADE STRUCTURE FOR THE PLAYGROUND BUILT AT JOHN E. MULLIN PARK; AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION OF THE LETTER OF INTENT AND THE GRANT AGREEMENT IF WE ARE CHOSEN AS A GRANT RECIPIENT; AUTHORIZING THE CITY TO PROVIDE MATCHING FUNDS IN THE AMOUNT OF $10,000.00.

RESOLUTION NO. 13R-06-129:   APPROVING THE PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL AND TAILORED FITNESS, LLC. TO PROVIDE BOOT CAMP FITNESS CLASSES AT VETERAN’S PARK.

Part of NW 50th Street to Close for Repairs to Culvert

The needed repairs to the NW 50 St. culvert are scheduled to begin this month.  Subsequently, this will require NW 50^th St. between NW 82^nd Avenue and NW 76^th Terrace to be closed for about 60 to 80 days.  Signs will be placed to notify the residents and detour traffic.

BCPS to Continue Sharing Best Practices Across Schools

Today, the Florida Department of Education (FDOE) released the 2012-13 Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test 2.0 (FCAT 2.0) Reading, Mathematics, and Science results today. Summary results indicate that:

The percent of students meeting or exceeding grade level proficiency (Achievement Level 3 or above) in Reading is:

•     59% in Grade 4  •     59% in Grade 8

•     60% in Grade 5  •     53% in Grade 9

•     60% in Grade 6  •     52% in Grade 10

•     58% in Grade 7  

The percent of students meeting or exceeding grade level (Achievement Level 3 or above) in Mathematics is:

•     63% in Grade 4  •     53% in Grade 7

•     57% in Grade 5  •     48% in Grade 8

•     55% in Grade 6  

The percent of students meeting or exceeding grade level (Achievement Level 3 or above) in Science is:

•     49% in Grade 5  •     46% in Grade 8

Broward County Public Schools (BCPS) students’ scores remained stable in reading across all grade levels, in mathematics for grades 4 and 6, and in science for grades 5 and 8.

Seventeen traditional elementary and middle schools made statistically significant increases (indicating a positive trend in scores) in these critical objectives.  Those serving Lauderhill are:

Banyan Elementary

Park Lakes Elementary

Plantation Elementary  

Martin Luther King Elementary

Nova Middle

Plantation Middle

Westpine Middle

CITY OF LAUDERHILL BEACH SHELTER PROGRAM STOPS STATUS AS OF 5/6/2013

Planned start date is approximately September 13 and the expected completion date for all Bus Shelters are June 2014 (though a few could be finished in 2013).

Two Lauderhill BCPS Students Named to Elite Class of 2013 Gates Millennium Scholars

Two Lauderhill Broward County Public Schools (BCPS) students are members of an elite class of 2013 Gates Millennium Scholars. Kiona Elliot of Northeast High School, and Chanique Vassell of Boyd Anderson High School, are among the 1,000 winners throughout the country who were named to this year’s Gates Millennium Scholarship Program.

Scholarship recipients all receive good-through-graduation scholarships that can be used to pursue degrees in any undergraduate major at the accredited college or university of their choice. The scholarship program, which provides recipients with leadership development opportunities, mentoring, academic and social support as well as financial assistance, is supported by The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation through the UNCF (United Negro College Fund).

Kiona Elliot of Lauderhill

Northeast High School

Kiona is ranked #13 of her 433-member graduating class. She has a weighed GPA of 4.6 and is one of the school’s four Senior Leaders. 

Kiona founded the Junior Academy of Science while in the 10th grade and served the role of president for three years. Her three years of independent research allowed her to present at the Junior Science, Engineering and Humanities Symposium for two years. Kiona’s creativity and passion for science led her to receive first place awards in both the County and State Science Fairs. She also competed in the Intel International Science Fair. As one of the 12 nationally recognized Bezos Scholars, Kiona attended the Aspen Ideas Festival at the Aspen Institute in Colorado.  

She was the chief communications officer of the Lemelson-MIT InvenTeam and was invited to the White House Science Fair, where she persuaded President Obama to demonstrate her team’s invention of a portable collapsible water sanitation station. Kiona will attend the University of Florida this fall.

Chanique Vassell of Lauderhill

Boyd Anderson High School

Chanique Vassell is driven to excellence. She is salutatorian of her class, ranked #2 with a weighted GPA of 5.2 and an unweighted 3.7. 

She has received numerous awards, including the Harvard Book Award, Advanced Placement English Literature/International Baccalaureate Foreign Language Department Award, and the Principal’s Achievement Award. She is a member of the Sister2Sister Club, the Key Club, and the National Honor Society. 

Giving back to her community and helping others is important to Chanique. She has over 800 community service hours to her credit. Chanique has been a Delta Sigma Theta Scholastic Honoree and has been on the Principal’s Honor Roll since 2009. Through the Questbridge Scholarship Program, she will attend Columbia University this fall to study biochemistry.

Winners Announced For The Annual Parkway Middle School Of The Arts Juried Art Contest

Lauderhill, FL….  The Art, Culture and Tourism Board of the City of Lauderhill has announced the winners of the Annual Parkway Middle School of the Arts Juried Art Contest. The winners were chosen at the school’s “Musical Kaleidoscope” Program on Thursday, May 30, 2013.

In the Painting category, third place went to Ginelle Swan, second place, Brandon King and first place, to Jacquelyn Burgess.

In the Drawing category, Sukeisha Brown won third, Riley Casson received second place, and Taylor Hamilton won first place.

In the Sculpture category, third place went to Roberto Lama, second place Kayla Wauchope, and first place Mariam Garcia.

In the Mixed Media category, third place went to Alicia Reynalds, second place to Cayla Oliphant, and first place to Joanna Wheeler.

In the Paper Collage category, the third place winner was Aajah Williams, second place Emily Paul, and first place Taylor Graham.

In the Paper Weaving category, third place winner was Tykeria Castro, second place Kayla Wauchope, and first place Jasenia Figueroa.

“Best in Show” was awarded to Renard Walter’s for his “Cube” sculpture.

Parkway Middle School of the Arts is Broward County’s only arts magnet middle school. Students received cash prizes of $100 for first place and Best in Show categories, $75 for second place, and $50 for third place.  The judging panel included Corrine Wakeland and Carol Ann McFarland, Lauderhill Arts Center artists in residence, and Adrianne Chadwick, Museum Educator at the Art Museum of Fort Lauderdale.

The City of Lauderhill’s Arts, Culture and Tourism (ACT) Board is a volunteer advisory body that works with the Lauderhill City Commission on art and cultural programs that include Lauderhill the Arts Center & Gallery and the Mayor’s Jazz Picnic in the Park series.

Lauderhill Selects Sun Bergeron as Solid Waste Disposal Service

On June 17 at a Special Commission Meeting the City Commission met to vote on the following matter:

RESOLUTION NO. 13R-06-120: RANKING THE COMPANIES TO PROVIDE SOLID WASTE DISPOSAL SERVICES TO THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL; AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO NEGOTIATE THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF THE CONTRACT; PROVIDING FOR PAYMENT FROM THE APPROPRIATE BUDGET CODE NUMBER.

By a 3 to 2 vote, Sun Bergeron was ranked first for a contract to start July 2013.  Voting in favor was Vice Mayor Thurston, Commission Bates and Mayor Kaplan.  Voting against was Commissioners Benson and Berger who supported Wheelabrator/Waste Management.

Vacancies on Lauderhill Advisory Boards

http://www.lauderhill-fl.gov/BoardVacancies_Feb2013.pdf

Notes of the Commission Meetings of June 10

On June 10, the City Commission held a Special Commission Meeting and a Regular Commission Meeting.  Commission Bates was an excused absent due to illness.  The following are notes of interest (all item passed on the agenda unanimously unless otherwise indicated):

SPECIAL COMMISSION MEETING:

1.  RESOLUTION NO. 13R-06-120:  APPROVING THE SELECTION OF ____________________ TO PROVIDE MUNICIPAL WASTE DISPOSAL SERVICES TO THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL; PROVIDING TERMS AND CONDITIONS.  The choice was between Sun Bergeron (SW Ranches bid) and Wheelabrator/Waste Management (Broward County bid), and staff recommended Sun Bergeron.  On a 2 - 2 tie, the matter was tabled to June 17 where Commission Bates may be able to break the tie.  Mayor Kaplan and Vice Mayor Thurston voted for Sun Bergeron.  Commissioners Benson and Berger voted for Wheelabrator.

2.  RESOLUTION NO. 13R-06-121:  APPROVING THE SELECTION OF SUN BERGERON TO PROVIDE RECYCLING PROCESSING SERVICES TO THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL.  Sun Bergeron was the only bidder.


REGULAR MEETING:

ORDINANCES & PUBLIC HEARINGS - FIRST READING

1 ORDINANCE NO. 13O-06-122:  APPROVING SUPPLEMENTAL APPROPRIATION OF ADDITIONAL REVENUES AND EXPENDITURES TO THE FISCAL YEAR 2013 BUDGET IN THE AMOUNT OF $26,000.00 TO ACCOUNT FOR THE POLICE DEPARTMENT YOUTH SUMMER EMPOWERMENT CAMP.

2 ORDINANCE NO. 13O-06-123 :  APPROVING THE SALE AND PURCHASE AGREEMENT FOR THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL TO PURCHASE THE PROPERTY LOCATED AT 3300 INVERRARY BOULEVARD, LAUDERHILL, FLORIDA, FROM THE BRISSETT RAY OF HOPE FOUNDATION FOR THE PURCHASE PRICE OF $1,360,000.00.

YMCA Free Swimming Lessons

Mr. Bistro - New Restaurant in Town

A new restaurant, Mr. Bistro has opened at 4973 N. University Drive in Lauderhill, 954-617-3388.  It is located on the SW corner of Inverrary Blvd (a/k/a NW 50th Street) and University Drive, behind Gaboose Korean Restaurant.

Besides a wide selection of outstanding dishes, they have special events, such as all you can eat nights.  A bar with beer and wine is also available.

For more information their web site is http://www.mrbistro.com/

Summer Camps in Lauderhill 2013

Broward County Public Schools 2013 Summer Programs

Broward County Public Schools (BCPS) is excited to announce the launch of a new Summer Programs Online Resource, which can be found on the District’s website www.browardschools.com/summerprograms.

The Summer Programs Online Resource provides information about summer programs and camps, including Academic Enrichment Programs, School Camps, Extended School Year (ESY) Program, Third Grade Reading Camp and Summer Food Service Program.

Visit the new Summer Programs Online Resource at www.browardschools.com/summerprograms.