Girls Too Women, Inc. (GTW) focus is to empower girls transitioning into women with high-quality skills and knowledge. It provides girls from 5th to 12th grade, and young ladies 18 through 25 with a wide variety of self empowering workshops. Counseling, training, educational programs and support is provided.
GTW is a 501c3 non-profit organization located at 1505 NW 47th Ave., Lauderhill, FL 33313. More information can be obtained at http://www.girlstoowomen.vpweb.com/, or 954-822-9804.
Monday, August 31, 2009
Friday, August 28, 2009
Department of Energy Releases $37,000,000 US for Efficiency Research & Technology to Small Businesses
The Federal Department of Energy (DOE) has earmarked $37,000,000 in Recovery Act funding for small businesses through its Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (SBTT) programs. The DOE's SBIR/SBTT programs will target US companies with fewer than 500 employees, and applications are currently being accepted for topic areas related to improving energy efficiency including:
· advanced building air conditioning and refrigeration, thermal load shifting, and cool roofs
· water usage in electric power generation and industrial processes
· power plant cooling
· advanced gas turbines and materials
· sensors, controls, and wireless networks
· advanced water power technology development
· smart controllers for smart grid applications
· advanced solar technologies
· advanced industrial technologies development
· advanced manufacturing processes
The deadline for applications is September 4, 2009, with approximately $8,500,000 expected to be available for new Phase I awards. (Source: Cape Fear Business News, August 23, 2009) Contact: Small Business Innovation Research / Small Business Technology Transfer Programs, US Department of Energy, (301) 903-1414, www.sbir-sttr@science.doe.gov, www.science.doe.gov/sbir
· advanced building air conditioning and refrigeration, thermal load shifting, and cool roofs
· water usage in electric power generation and industrial processes
· power plant cooling
· advanced gas turbines and materials
· sensors, controls, and wireless networks
· advanced water power technology development
· smart controllers for smart grid applications
· advanced solar technologies
· advanced industrial technologies development
· advanced manufacturing processes
The deadline for applications is September 4, 2009, with approximately $8,500,000 expected to be available for new Phase I awards. (Source: Cape Fear Business News, August 23, 2009) Contact: Small Business Innovation Research / Small Business Technology Transfer Programs, US Department of Energy, (301) 903-1414, www.sbir-sttr@science.doe.gov, www.science.doe.gov/sbir
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
An Open Letter from Lauderhill Resident, Lisa Timmons - Winner of the Channel 4 Phoenix Project
Hello Everybody,
I know it has been awhile since you have heard from me. I am still so excited. Talk about floodgates of heaven being thrown open and pouring out so many blessings that I am still reeling from them! Hallelujah!
I am so humbled for this opportunity and cannot thank God enough for this wonderful blessing. Mind you! Had I not received this wonderful award God is still awesome!
Please forward this email to all of your friends and family who supported me and who would like to know what happened to the Phoenix! I have begun a blog at, http://www.cbs4.com/phoenixblog, so that everyone can stay up to date.
In addition, for those who receive the local news for Broward, Dade and Monroe counties (Florida), you can view a segment of the wonderful businesses and service providers (featuring me) that helped to make the Phoenix Project come alive on Channel 4, Tuesdays between 5p and 5:40p. For those that are not local you can find these businesses (featuring me :), at http://www.cbs4.com/phoenix.
May God bless you all for you all have blessed me!
Love,
Lis'
I know it has been awhile since you have heard from me. I am still so excited. Talk about floodgates of heaven being thrown open and pouring out so many blessings that I am still reeling from them! Hallelujah!
I am so humbled for this opportunity and cannot thank God enough for this wonderful blessing. Mind you! Had I not received this wonderful award God is still awesome!
Please forward this email to all of your friends and family who supported me and who would like to know what happened to the Phoenix! I have begun a blog at, http://www.cbs4.com/phoenixblog, so that everyone can stay up to date.
In addition, for those who receive the local news for Broward, Dade and Monroe counties (Florida), you can view a segment of the wonderful businesses and service providers (featuring me) that helped to make the Phoenix Project come alive on Channel 4, Tuesdays between 5p and 5:40p. For those that are not local you can find these businesses (featuring me :), at http://www.cbs4.com/phoenix.
May God bless you all for you all have blessed me!
Love,
Lis'
Saturday, August 22, 2009
A Letter from Broward County Concerning Walking through Construction to Discovery Elementary
When the school year begins, another new elementary school serving Lauderhill will open. A lot of work has gone into preparing for its opening, and one of the issues is the construction of Pine Island Road which borders the school. The following is a letter from Broward County, who is responsible for the construction of Pine Island Road, and how they are handling the pedestrian traffic (Note: there was no attachment to this letter):
Ladies & Gentlemen,
On Monday August 17, 2009 @ 10:00 AM a meeting was held at the Construction Office at Pine Island Road & NW 50 Street. The meeting was attended by representatives of the County, Contractor, Consultant and the School Board. The purpose of this meeting was to review the temporary provisions for pedestrian traffic along the Pine Island Road corridor from the neighborhoods, to the affected schools. Attached is a schematic copy of the walk routes that will be available and anticipated completion dates.
On the west side of Pine Island Road from Oakland Park Boulevard to NW 53 Court: temporary sidewalk will be in place.
On the west side of Pine Island Road from NW 53 Court to Commercial Boulevard: sidewalk has been provided behind the fence on the school property.
On the west side of Pine Island Road from Commercial Boulevard to NW 53 Court: a temporary right turn lane will be completed into Discovery Elementary.
On the east side of Pine Island Road from Oakland Park Boulevard to NW 44 Street: temporary sidewalk will be in place.
On the east side of Pine Island Road from NW 44 Street to NW 50 Street: new concrete sidewalk is complete.
On the east side of Pine Island Road from NW 50 Street to Commercial Boulevard: new concrete sidewalk is anticipated to be complete after Labor Day.
In the interim VMS Boards will be placed at NW 52 Street and NW 53 Court advising pedestrians to use alternate routes to access the established crossing guards at NW 50 Street and Commercial Boulevard.
If I may be of any assistance Please contact me at 954-XXX-XXXX
Thank you,
Donald G Quinn, Project Manager
BROWARD COUNTY PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT
Highway Construction & Engineering Division
NOTE: Lauderhill is involved in additional discussions to resolve concerns raised from this letter. Therefore, it could be subjected to modifications.
Ladies & Gentlemen,
On Monday August 17, 2009 @ 10:00 AM a meeting was held at the Construction Office at Pine Island Road & NW 50 Street. The meeting was attended by representatives of the County, Contractor, Consultant and the School Board. The purpose of this meeting was to review the temporary provisions for pedestrian traffic along the Pine Island Road corridor from the neighborhoods, to the affected schools. Attached is a schematic copy of the walk routes that will be available and anticipated completion dates.
On the west side of Pine Island Road from Oakland Park Boulevard to NW 53 Court: temporary sidewalk will be in place.
On the west side of Pine Island Road from NW 53 Court to Commercial Boulevard: sidewalk has been provided behind the fence on the school property.
On the west side of Pine Island Road from Commercial Boulevard to NW 53 Court: a temporary right turn lane will be completed into Discovery Elementary.
On the east side of Pine Island Road from Oakland Park Boulevard to NW 44 Street: temporary sidewalk will be in place.
On the east side of Pine Island Road from NW 44 Street to NW 50 Street: new concrete sidewalk is complete.
On the east side of Pine Island Road from NW 50 Street to Commercial Boulevard: new concrete sidewalk is anticipated to be complete after Labor Day.
In the interim VMS Boards will be placed at NW 52 Street and NW 53 Court advising pedestrians to use alternate routes to access the established crossing guards at NW 50 Street and Commercial Boulevard.
If I may be of any assistance Please contact me at 954-XXX-XXXX
Thank you,
Donald G Quinn, Project Manager
BROWARD COUNTY PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT
Highway Construction & Engineering Division
NOTE: Lauderhill is involved in additional discussions to resolve concerns raised from this letter. Therefore, it could be subjected to modifications.
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
Mayor Works To Save Money and Energy on Street Lights
On June 26, Mayor Richard J. Kaplan appeared in front of the Public Service Commission to speak on the FP&L proposed rate increases. These increases were partly to help FP&L raise funds to invest in cleaner technology. Mayor Kaplan's testimony related to investing in low lying fruit that conserves energy, rather than produce more energy to consume.
Numerous examples were given from using CFL bulbs, to buying Energy Star appliances, among others. Credit was given to FP&L in providing a rebate to residents who buy new qualified air conditioners, and the testimony supported providing more such rebates to reduce the need for more power plants.
One issue brought up was that FP&L charges cities a flat rate for street lights (since they are not on meters). The rate is set by the Public Service Commission. Being the Federal Government is providing Energy Block Grants to Cities, specifically mentioning its use to be for providing for energy efficient street lights, LED street lights seemed to be a promising area to use the funds. They save 40 to 60% of the energy, and for the city of Lauderhill, that could mean an annual savings of $100,000 to $200,000/year.
However, in Mayor Kaplan's investigation, he found that while FP&L would allow a change to LED bulbs, the reduction in energy consumed (and thereby the reduction is energy costs) would not pass through to the cities. Instead, FP&L would keep all of the profits as a windfall.
FP&L stated that they are researching out LED lights in their own parking lights in Juno Beach, but it may take another year or so to determine if it would work, and what savings there would be. This has been a common response provided throughout the US by other utilities when confronted with the same request. However, the technology has been available for some time, and has been implemented throughout the US in numerous places. A significant amount of data is already available, though FP&L has no internal data of its own, which it is requiring.
Mayor Kaplan requested the Public Service Commission investigate this matter, and as part of the rate review of FP&L, that a lower rate charged on street lights be created if LED lights were used.
For more information see the Sun-Sentinel article: http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/broward/sfl-lauderhill-lights-fpl-b081709,0,7672530.story
Numerous examples were given from using CFL bulbs, to buying Energy Star appliances, among others. Credit was given to FP&L in providing a rebate to residents who buy new qualified air conditioners, and the testimony supported providing more such rebates to reduce the need for more power plants.
One issue brought up was that FP&L charges cities a flat rate for street lights (since they are not on meters). The rate is set by the Public Service Commission. Being the Federal Government is providing Energy Block Grants to Cities, specifically mentioning its use to be for providing for energy efficient street lights, LED street lights seemed to be a promising area to use the funds. They save 40 to 60% of the energy, and for the city of Lauderhill, that could mean an annual savings of $100,000 to $200,000/year.
However, in Mayor Kaplan's investigation, he found that while FP&L would allow a change to LED bulbs, the reduction in energy consumed (and thereby the reduction is energy costs) would not pass through to the cities. Instead, FP&L would keep all of the profits as a windfall.
FP&L stated that they are researching out LED lights in their own parking lights in Juno Beach, but it may take another year or so to determine if it would work, and what savings there would be. This has been a common response provided throughout the US by other utilities when confronted with the same request. However, the technology has been available for some time, and has been implemented throughout the US in numerous places. A significant amount of data is already available, though FP&L has no internal data of its own, which it is requiring.
Mayor Kaplan requested the Public Service Commission investigate this matter, and as part of the rate review of FP&L, that a lower rate charged on street lights be created if LED lights were used.
For more information see the Sun-Sentinel article: http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/broward/sfl-lauderhill-lights-fpl-b081709,0,7672530.story
Sunday, August 16, 2009
Needed Preparations for Storm Season is Now

Dear Residents of the City of Lauderhill,
I have NOT activated my Emergency Notification System, but I wanted to send you this message because of a possible weather condition which is a matter of concern. Presently, Tropical Storm Anna and Bill are heading in the general direction of Florida. Based upon present projections, Thursday would be when the first tropical storm would be in our area. It is always possible that the route could take a change of direction, and either head closer to Florida or away from it. It could also pick up speed, which would result with a greater impact to our area, even if it stays on its presently projected course.
Being that we cannot guarantee the direction of the Storm, it is only prudent to take appropriate actions for safety reasons. Minimally, the precautions should address the concerns of flying debris. Please start looking at your hurricane plans. Address the need to bring in items (items under 50 lbs.) which could take flight, (flower pots, lawn furniture, BBQ's, flags, tools, etc.) from outside, into a secure area. If you have loose branches, please consider removing them now without injuring yourself or touching electric lines.
Right now would be a good time to make sure you have adequate supplies, batteries, flashlights, money, food and water supplies, etc., if power is lost. Also, you may wish to make sure you have sufficient gas for your car(s) and propane for your grill (storing it safely). Consult the guides the supermarkets and TV stations have been putting out for more information.
More announcements will be forthcoming as needed. It would be appreciated if you would notify others since this system does not reach everyone. If we can be of further assistance, please let us know.
Very Truly Yours,
Richard J. Kaplan
Mayor, City of Lauderhill
Thursday, August 13, 2009
Lifeguard Traning Schedule

The City of Lauderhill is conducting a Lifeguard Training Program for 2009. For those interested in become an American Red Cross trained lifeguard, the schedule for the remainder of the year is:
September 12, 13, 19 & 20
October 10, 11, 17 & 18
November 14, 15, 21 & 22
December 12, 13, 19 & 20
Typically Lifeguards are typically paid $10/hour or more, and make a great summer job.
Location is at Veterans Park, 7600 NW 50th Street, For more information call 954-572-1462.
Monday, August 10, 2009
USA invites England and Australia to play in Florida
by DreamCricket USA
By Peter Simunovich
Don Lockerbie, the USACA Chief Executive Officer, has made a rushed trip to London to meet with Australian and England administrators in a bid to get the teams to play practice matches against the US national team early next year before the T20 World Cup tournament in the Caribbean.
Australia and England are now playing in the Ashes Test series and will meet in the Second Test at Lord’s this weekend.
Lockerbie, who left the US on Monday and is expected back this weekend, has already spoken with all the other leading cricket nations, including India, the West Indies and Pakistan, about playing the US in lead up matches to the T20 tournament.
“So far they have all said they are interested, but no firm decision has yet been given by any of the countries,” Manaf Mohamed, the USACA Second Vice President and Director of Cricket Operations told DreamCricket.com in an interview.
“The idea is to give the US team the chance to play against the best players in the world before the T20 tournament in the Caribbean next year. It will also help promote the game in the US. It would be a great experience for the US team.”
The US would also get international coverage of the matches, which would also give it an opportunity to showcase its talent of players.
The matches, if agreed upon, would be played on a turf wicket at the Central Broward Regional Park Stadium in Lauderhill, which is about five miles from Fort Lauderdale. Mohamed said the stadium has 5,000 seats and can accommodate up to 20,000 with extra seating.
He said that Lockerbie also planned to talk to the top countries about using fields in Florida as practice sessions before moving to the Caribbean for the T20 tournament.
Mohamed said that Lockerbie was hoping to have the matches recognized by the ICC to add status to the contests.
US captain Steve Massiah was excited about the potential matches when he was told about them. “This is amazing,” he told DreamCricket.com.
“This is really a blessing and a great opportunity for the US team to play against the top players and the best teams in the world.
“I think this will benefit us as a team in many, many ways. It will be a confidence booster for our guys to have played against the best players and teams in the world.
“I have always believed that the better the opposition is then it raises the level of the standard of competition. This is terrific news.”
Lockerbie has said since he became the first CEO of USACA that he wants top cricket countries to visit the US to play against the national team.
His philosophy is to promote cricket in the US and give the US team the chance to play against the best and to see what it takes and how much improvement is needed to be ranked with the elite of cricket.
By Peter Simunovich
Don Lockerbie, the USACA Chief Executive Officer, has made a rushed trip to London to meet with Australian and England administrators in a bid to get the teams to play practice matches against the US national team early next year before the T20 World Cup tournament in the Caribbean.
Australia and England are now playing in the Ashes Test series and will meet in the Second Test at Lord’s this weekend.
Lockerbie, who left the US on Monday and is expected back this weekend, has already spoken with all the other leading cricket nations, including India, the West Indies and Pakistan, about playing the US in lead up matches to the T20 tournament.
“So far they have all said they are interested, but no firm decision has yet been given by any of the countries,” Manaf Mohamed, the USACA Second Vice President and Director of Cricket Operations told DreamCricket.com in an interview.
“The idea is to give the US team the chance to play against the best players in the world before the T20 tournament in the Caribbean next year. It will also help promote the game in the US. It would be a great experience for the US team.”
The US would also get international coverage of the matches, which would also give it an opportunity to showcase its talent of players.
The matches, if agreed upon, would be played on a turf wicket at the Central Broward Regional Park Stadium in Lauderhill, which is about five miles from Fort Lauderdale. Mohamed said the stadium has 5,000 seats and can accommodate up to 20,000 with extra seating.
He said that Lockerbie also planned to talk to the top countries about using fields in Florida as practice sessions before moving to the Caribbean for the T20 tournament.
Mohamed said that Lockerbie was hoping to have the matches recognized by the ICC to add status to the contests.
US captain Steve Massiah was excited about the potential matches when he was told about them. “This is amazing,” he told DreamCricket.com.
“This is really a blessing and a great opportunity for the US team to play against the top players and the best teams in the world.
“I think this will benefit us as a team in many, many ways. It will be a confidence booster for our guys to have played against the best players and teams in the world.
“I have always believed that the better the opposition is then it raises the level of the standard of competition. This is terrific news.”
Lockerbie has said since he became the first CEO of USACA that he wants top cricket countries to visit the US to play against the national team.
His philosophy is to promote cricket in the US and give the US team the chance to play against the best and to see what it takes and how much improvement is needed to be ranked with the elite of cricket.
Friday, August 07, 2009
Fall Baseball Season - Register Now
Each Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM, and on weekdays from 10 AM to 8 PM, Parents can register their children for Lauderhill Fall Baseball. Registration is at Veteran's Park, 7600 NW 50th Street.Children from 5-6 play T-Ball, 7-8 play Coach Pitch, 9-10 Double A, 11-12 Triple A, and 13-15 Majors. The cost is $25 for the first child, and $20 for each additional child. New paraticipants may have the cost of the uniform too.
For more information call 954-572-1459.
Tuesday, August 04, 2009
Hometown Democracy Question to be on November 2010 Ballot
A proposed Florida constitutional amendment that would give voters a say on how their communities grow, including such decisions as where shopping centers, homes and roads are built, will be on the 2010 ballot.
A private organization, Florida Hometown Democracy, has collected enough signature to place the question on the ballot. To be designated as Amendment 4, the petition drive has been working for a public vote for 4 years. To pass, it will require a 60 percent approval by voters.
The constitutional amendment would require local referendums on changes to city and county comprehensive plans. While intending to give local voters a say in their city and county, the result, if passed, will be staggering on voters and the economy of Florida. Ballots could exceed 50 pages, and all development would come to a halt until a successful vote occurs. The costs of local referendums will have to be paid for by taxpayers, and it is unclear how often a voter referendum on a subject matter will occur.
An interesting alliance of business and development interests, along with government and public interest groups (including environmental groups and 1000 Friends of Florida) are opposing the amendment. If passed, the amendment would be a drag on Florida's already sagging economy, and the Florida Chamber of Commerce believes it may permanent cause Florida to remain in a recession, and hopelessly complicate the planning process.
Opponents also have begun their own petition drive for a competing amendment known as Smarter Growth with a provision saying it would prevail if voters approve both. Smarter Growth would require referendums on planning changes only if 10 percent of registered voters sign a petition within 60 days.
A private organization, Florida Hometown Democracy, has collected enough signature to place the question on the ballot. To be designated as Amendment 4, the petition drive has been working for a public vote for 4 years. To pass, it will require a 60 percent approval by voters.
The constitutional amendment would require local referendums on changes to city and county comprehensive plans. While intending to give local voters a say in their city and county, the result, if passed, will be staggering on voters and the economy of Florida. Ballots could exceed 50 pages, and all development would come to a halt until a successful vote occurs. The costs of local referendums will have to be paid for by taxpayers, and it is unclear how often a voter referendum on a subject matter will occur.
An interesting alliance of business and development interests, along with government and public interest groups (including environmental groups and 1000 Friends of Florida) are opposing the amendment. If passed, the amendment would be a drag on Florida's already sagging economy, and the Florida Chamber of Commerce believes it may permanent cause Florida to remain in a recession, and hopelessly complicate the planning process.
Opponents also have begun their own petition drive for a competing amendment known as Smarter Growth with a provision saying it would prevail if voters approve both. Smarter Growth would require referendums on planning changes only if 10 percent of registered voters sign a petition within 60 days.
Saturday, August 01, 2009
Commission in Summer Recess
From the completion of the Annual Budget Workshops on July 14, until August 31, all regularly scheduled Commission Meetings and Workshops have been cancelled. This is the time each year that the Commission takes its Summer Recess and city staff can arrange vacations. It thereby avoids conflicts with vacations and meetings.
Our next regular Commission Meeting will be the last Monday in August (Aug. 31).
Our next regular Commission Meeting will be the last Monday in August (Aug. 31).
Thursday, July 30, 2009
What is Going Green?
Over the last two years the Mayor has been working with the City in developing a program to help reduce energy costs, and thereby help save the environment. Though the benefit of helping the environment is important, reducing our operating costs significantly drives the results.
In the Lauderhill Spotlight there was a copy of the Lauderhill Sustainable Green Initiatives Brochure briefly outlining Lauderhill's "Green Program." To help provide more information, a city web site has been created providing more details about the program at www.lauderhill-fl.gov/green. It also outlines how our city is planning to utilize its Federal Energy Block Grant Funds, for which residents will be able to receive direct benefits from.
Please take a look at it and hopefully you will learn something helpful to you, including how you may be able to save in energy costs too.
In the Lauderhill Spotlight there was a copy of the Lauderhill Sustainable Green Initiatives Brochure briefly outlining Lauderhill's "Green Program." To help provide more information, a city web site has been created providing more details about the program at www.lauderhill-fl.gov/green. It also outlines how our city is planning to utilize its Federal Energy Block Grant Funds, for which residents will be able to receive direct benefits from.
Please take a look at it and hopefully you will learn something helpful to you, including how you may be able to save in energy costs too.
Saturday, July 25, 2009
Notes of the CRA and Regular Commission Meeting of July 13
On July 13, the City Commission met for a CRA meeting and Regular Commission meeting. The following are some notes of interest from those meetings:
CRA MEETING:
1) SIGN ORDINANCE PRELIMINARY FINDINGS - Meetings took place with business to seek input on on modification to the sign ordinance. Many businesses attended. An explanation was given on how technology and interpretation of the present ordinance has created problems with the city's sign ordinance which is quite common with other cities. Instruction was given to see how other jurisdictions have handled the situation and to come up with a proposal for a new ordinance. However, a warning needs to be given out to businesses concerning using a sign that is presently not permitted. They will not be grandfathered in if the code does not ultimately allow what they used. An Ordinance Change in Progress notice will be arranged.
2) ACT BOARD, PUBLIC ART BOARD, ARTS INCUBATOR, CULTURAL TRUST - A discussion was held on the differences between the groups, and where should the Arts Incubator be placed. The resolutions creating the different boards will be subsequently reviewed.
3) DIRECTOR’S REPORT:
A) FALMOUTH DELEGATION VISIT - Visit went well on their local tours.
REGULAR COMMISSION MEETING:
ORDINANCES ----- FIRST READING:
1. Approved ORDINANCE NO. 09O-07-129: AMENDING THE CODE OF ORDINANCES TO CREATE A SECOND TIER FOR NEWLY HIRED POLICE OFFICERS; TO DEFINE THE NEWLY CREATED TIERS AND TO DEFINE EARNABLE COMPENSATION FOR TIER TWO MEMBERS; TO REQUIRE TWENTY-FIVE YEARS OF SERVICE FOR NORMAL RETIREMENT ELIGIBILITY OR THE ATTAINMENT OF AGE 55 AND 10 YEARS OF SERVICE UNDER TIER TWO; TO PROVIDE FOR 3% MULTIPLIER FOR A MAXIMUM BENEFIT OF 75% UNDER TIER TWO, AND ALLOWING TIER TWO MEMBERS TO PURCHASE AN INCREASE IN THEIR MULTIPLIER; ALLOW BUY-BACK FOR MILITARY OR PRIOR POLICE SERVICE; TO PROVIDE FOR A SEVEN YEAR VESTING PERIOD UNDER TIER TWO; TO PROVIDE THAT THE COLA ONLY APPLIES TO TIER ONE.
2. Approved ORDINANCE NO. 09O-07-131: TO ALLOW A CULTURAL AND PERFORMING ARTS CENTER, LIBRARY, MUSEUM AND SIMILAR USES AS A PERMITTED USE; AND AMENDING PARAGRAPH D., SPECIAL EXCEPTION USES AND STRUCTURES, TO REPEAL CULTURAL ARTS CENTER AND LIBRARY AS A SPECIAL EXCEPTION USE.
3. Approved in a 4 to 1 vote ORDINANCE NO. 09O-07-133: ADDING CORRECTIONAL AND JUDICIAL FACILITIES AS A LAND USE CATEGORY AND BY ADDING AN ASTERISK IN THE COMMUNITY COMMERCIAL, GENERAL COMMERCIAL AND COMMUNITY FACILITY ZONING DISTRICTS; AMORTIZATION AND ALLOWING EXISTING CORRECTIONAL AND JUDICIAL FACILITY USES IN THE COMMUNITY COMMERCIAL, GENERAL COMMERCIAL ZONING AND COMMUNITY FACILITY DISTRICTS TO CONTINUE AS A LEGAL NONCONFORMING USE UNTIL AUGUST 31, 2015, ADDING LANGUAGE ALLOWING THE CITY TO CANCEL SUCH AUTHORITY EARLIER IF A VIOLATION OF THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS EXIST.
RESOLUTIONS
ADMINISTRATION
4. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-07-148: APPROVING THE AGREEMENT FOR COLLECTION AND DISPOSAL OF SOLID WASTE AND RECYCLABLE MATERIALS BETWEEN THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL AND WASTE MANAGEMENT, INC. OF FLORIDA TO EXTEND THE AGREEMENT SUBJECT TO ALL OF THE ORIGINAL TERMS, CONDITIONS AND SPECIFICATIONS FOR AN ADDITIONAL ONE (1) YEAR TERM TO EXPIRE DECEMBER 31, 2010.
COMMISSION
5. Approving RESOLUTION NO. 09R-07-152: REQUESTING THAT THE FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION, BROWARD COUNTY MASS TRANSIT AND THE BROWARD COUNTY COMMISSION FAST TRACK THEIR REVIEWS OF THE REMOVAL OF THE SUBJECT MID-BLOCK PEDESTRIAN SIGNAL AND THE RELOCATION OF THE SUBJECT BUS BAY TO THE WEST SIDE OF N.W. 55th AVENUE IN CONNECTION TO THE OAKLAND PARK BOULEVARD TURNPIKE INTERCHANGE EXCHANGE INVESTIGATION(REQUESTED BY CITY COMMISSION).
6. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-07-153: REQUESTING THAT THE BROWARD COUNTY METROPOLITAN PLANNING ORGANIZATION (MPO) PLACE THE OAKLAND PARK BOULEVARD TURNPIKE INTERCHANGE ON THE MPO LONG RANGE TRANSPORTATION PLAN (REQUESTED BY CITY COMMISSION).
FINANCE
7. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-07-154: APPROVING THE LIST OF SIX (6) CONTRACTORS FOR THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL’S NEIGHBORHOOD STABILIZATION PROGRAM (NSP); PROVIDING FOR THE USE OF THE VARIOUS CONTRACTORS PURSUANT TO THE NSP PROGRAM GUIDELINES.
8. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-07-155: APPROVING THE LIST OF THREE (3) PROJECT MANAGERS FOR THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL’S NEIGHBORHOOD STABILIZATION PROGRAM (NSP); PROVIDING FOR THE USE OF THE VARIOUS PROJECT MANAGERS PURSUANT TO THE NSP PROGRAM GUIDELINES.
9. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-07-156: APPROVING THE LIST OF FIVE (5) REALTORS FOR THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL’S NEIGHBORHOOD STABILIZATION PROGRAM (NSP); PROVIDING FOR THE USE OF THE VARIOUS REALTORS PURSUANT TO THE NSP PROGRAM GUIDELINES.
10. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-07-160: APPROVING THE GRANT APPLICATION OF THE CITY TO THE DEPARTMENT OF HUD FOR AVAILABLE FUNDING UNDER THE ARRA NEIGHBORHOOD STABILIZATION PROGRAM 2, IN THE AMOUNT OF $10,000,000.
POLICE
11. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-07-157: APPROVING THE DONATION OF FUNDS IN THE AMOUNT OF $1,400.00 FROM THE STATE LOCAL LAW ENFORCEMENT TRUST FUND (LETF) TO THE NORTHWEST HOMEOWNERS’ ASSOCIATION TO SUPPORT DRUG TREATMENT, DRUG EDUCATION OR DRUG PREVENTION, CRIME PREVENTION, SAFE NEIGHBORHOOD, OR SCHOOL RESOURCE OFFICER PROGRAMS IN ACCORDANCE WITH STATE GUIDELINES.
12. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-07-158: APPROVING THE DONATION OF FUNDS IN THE AMOUNT OF $1,400.00 FROM THE STATE LOCAL LAW ENFORCEMENT TRUST FUND (LETF) TO THE ST. GEORGE HOMEOWNERS’ ASSOCIATION TO SUPPORT DRUG TREATMENT, DRUG EDUCATION OR DRUG PREVENTION, CRIME PREVENTION, SAFE NEIGHBORHOOD, OR SCHOOL RESOURCE OFFICER PROGRAMS IN ACCORDANCE WITH STATE GUIDELINES.
QUASI-JUDICIAL MATTERS:
QUASI-JUDICIAL MATTERS, FIRST READING:
None
CRA MEETING:
1) SIGN ORDINANCE PRELIMINARY FINDINGS - Meetings took place with business to seek input on on modification to the sign ordinance. Many businesses attended. An explanation was given on how technology and interpretation of the present ordinance has created problems with the city's sign ordinance which is quite common with other cities. Instruction was given to see how other jurisdictions have handled the situation and to come up with a proposal for a new ordinance. However, a warning needs to be given out to businesses concerning using a sign that is presently not permitted. They will not be grandfathered in if the code does not ultimately allow what they used. An Ordinance Change in Progress notice will be arranged.
2) ACT BOARD, PUBLIC ART BOARD, ARTS INCUBATOR, CULTURAL TRUST - A discussion was held on the differences between the groups, and where should the Arts Incubator be placed. The resolutions creating the different boards will be subsequently reviewed.
3) DIRECTOR’S REPORT:
A) FALMOUTH DELEGATION VISIT - Visit went well on their local tours.
REGULAR COMMISSION MEETING:
ORDINANCES ----- FIRST READING:
1. Approved ORDINANCE NO. 09O-07-129: AMENDING THE CODE OF ORDINANCES TO CREATE A SECOND TIER FOR NEWLY HIRED POLICE OFFICERS; TO DEFINE THE NEWLY CREATED TIERS AND TO DEFINE EARNABLE COMPENSATION FOR TIER TWO MEMBERS; TO REQUIRE TWENTY-FIVE YEARS OF SERVICE FOR NORMAL RETIREMENT ELIGIBILITY OR THE ATTAINMENT OF AGE 55 AND 10 YEARS OF SERVICE UNDER TIER TWO; TO PROVIDE FOR 3% MULTIPLIER FOR A MAXIMUM BENEFIT OF 75% UNDER TIER TWO, AND ALLOWING TIER TWO MEMBERS TO PURCHASE AN INCREASE IN THEIR MULTIPLIER; ALLOW BUY-BACK FOR MILITARY OR PRIOR POLICE SERVICE; TO PROVIDE FOR A SEVEN YEAR VESTING PERIOD UNDER TIER TWO; TO PROVIDE THAT THE COLA ONLY APPLIES TO TIER ONE.
2. Approved ORDINANCE NO. 09O-07-131: TO ALLOW A CULTURAL AND PERFORMING ARTS CENTER, LIBRARY, MUSEUM AND SIMILAR USES AS A PERMITTED USE; AND AMENDING PARAGRAPH D., SPECIAL EXCEPTION USES AND STRUCTURES, TO REPEAL CULTURAL ARTS CENTER AND LIBRARY AS A SPECIAL EXCEPTION USE.
3. Approved in a 4 to 1 vote ORDINANCE NO. 09O-07-133: ADDING CORRECTIONAL AND JUDICIAL FACILITIES AS A LAND USE CATEGORY AND BY ADDING AN ASTERISK IN THE COMMUNITY COMMERCIAL, GENERAL COMMERCIAL AND COMMUNITY FACILITY ZONING DISTRICTS; AMORTIZATION AND ALLOWING EXISTING CORRECTIONAL AND JUDICIAL FACILITY USES IN THE COMMUNITY COMMERCIAL, GENERAL COMMERCIAL ZONING AND COMMUNITY FACILITY DISTRICTS TO CONTINUE AS A LEGAL NONCONFORMING USE UNTIL AUGUST 31, 2015, ADDING LANGUAGE ALLOWING THE CITY TO CANCEL SUCH AUTHORITY EARLIER IF A VIOLATION OF THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS EXIST.
RESOLUTIONS
ADMINISTRATION
4. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-07-148: APPROVING THE AGREEMENT FOR COLLECTION AND DISPOSAL OF SOLID WASTE AND RECYCLABLE MATERIALS BETWEEN THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL AND WASTE MANAGEMENT, INC. OF FLORIDA TO EXTEND THE AGREEMENT SUBJECT TO ALL OF THE ORIGINAL TERMS, CONDITIONS AND SPECIFICATIONS FOR AN ADDITIONAL ONE (1) YEAR TERM TO EXPIRE DECEMBER 31, 2010.
COMMISSION
5. Approving RESOLUTION NO. 09R-07-152: REQUESTING THAT THE FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION, BROWARD COUNTY MASS TRANSIT AND THE BROWARD COUNTY COMMISSION FAST TRACK THEIR REVIEWS OF THE REMOVAL OF THE SUBJECT MID-BLOCK PEDESTRIAN SIGNAL AND THE RELOCATION OF THE SUBJECT BUS BAY TO THE WEST SIDE OF N.W. 55th AVENUE IN CONNECTION TO THE OAKLAND PARK BOULEVARD TURNPIKE INTERCHANGE EXCHANGE INVESTIGATION(REQUESTED BY CITY COMMISSION).
6. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-07-153: REQUESTING THAT THE BROWARD COUNTY METROPOLITAN PLANNING ORGANIZATION (MPO) PLACE THE OAKLAND PARK BOULEVARD TURNPIKE INTERCHANGE ON THE MPO LONG RANGE TRANSPORTATION PLAN (REQUESTED BY CITY COMMISSION).
FINANCE
7. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-07-154: APPROVING THE LIST OF SIX (6) CONTRACTORS FOR THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL’S NEIGHBORHOOD STABILIZATION PROGRAM (NSP); PROVIDING FOR THE USE OF THE VARIOUS CONTRACTORS PURSUANT TO THE NSP PROGRAM GUIDELINES.
8. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-07-155: APPROVING THE LIST OF THREE (3) PROJECT MANAGERS FOR THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL’S NEIGHBORHOOD STABILIZATION PROGRAM (NSP); PROVIDING FOR THE USE OF THE VARIOUS PROJECT MANAGERS PURSUANT TO THE NSP PROGRAM GUIDELINES.
9. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-07-156: APPROVING THE LIST OF FIVE (5) REALTORS FOR THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL’S NEIGHBORHOOD STABILIZATION PROGRAM (NSP); PROVIDING FOR THE USE OF THE VARIOUS REALTORS PURSUANT TO THE NSP PROGRAM GUIDELINES.
10. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-07-160: APPROVING THE GRANT APPLICATION OF THE CITY TO THE DEPARTMENT OF HUD FOR AVAILABLE FUNDING UNDER THE ARRA NEIGHBORHOOD STABILIZATION PROGRAM 2, IN THE AMOUNT OF $10,000,000.
POLICE
11. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-07-157: APPROVING THE DONATION OF FUNDS IN THE AMOUNT OF $1,400.00 FROM THE STATE LOCAL LAW ENFORCEMENT TRUST FUND (LETF) TO THE NORTHWEST HOMEOWNERS’ ASSOCIATION TO SUPPORT DRUG TREATMENT, DRUG EDUCATION OR DRUG PREVENTION, CRIME PREVENTION, SAFE NEIGHBORHOOD, OR SCHOOL RESOURCE OFFICER PROGRAMS IN ACCORDANCE WITH STATE GUIDELINES.
12. Approved RESOLUTION NO. 09R-07-158: APPROVING THE DONATION OF FUNDS IN THE AMOUNT OF $1,400.00 FROM THE STATE LOCAL LAW ENFORCEMENT TRUST FUND (LETF) TO THE ST. GEORGE HOMEOWNERS’ ASSOCIATION TO SUPPORT DRUG TREATMENT, DRUG EDUCATION OR DRUG PREVENTION, CRIME PREVENTION, SAFE NEIGHBORHOOD, OR SCHOOL RESOURCE OFFICER PROGRAMS IN ACCORDANCE WITH STATE GUIDELINES.
QUASI-JUDICIAL MATTERS:
QUASI-JUDICIAL MATTERS, FIRST READING:
None
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Sunday, July 19, 2009
Lauderhill Spotlight Goes Green and Saves Money
Beginning with this quarter's issue of the Lauderhill Spotlight, the city newsletter will be delivered electronically through email. If you have an account to pay your city utilities on line, or sign up to receive the newsletter through the city's home page, http://www.lauderhill-fl.gov/, you will have the newsletter emailed to you.
Additionally, the newsletter is posted on the city web site at http://lauderhill-fl.gov/spotlight.pdf and a link is provided to you under Lauderhill Links, on the right side of this web page. For those without Internet capability, 1000 hard copies of the newsletter will be printed and distributed among city parks and city hall.
The annual savings is $120,000, and this is not only a green initiatives but also saves a large amount of tax dollars.
Editor's Note: The City Commission has decided to fund the Lauderhill Spotlight for the upcoming fiscal year in the amount of $77,000. It will still be on line, but also mailed. To save on costs, the number of issues for the year will be reduced from 4 to 3.
Additionally, the newsletter is posted on the city web site at http://lauderhill-fl.gov/spotlight.pdf and a link is provided to you under Lauderhill Links, on the right side of this web page. For those without Internet capability, 1000 hard copies of the newsletter will be printed and distributed among city parks and city hall.
The annual savings is $120,000, and this is not only a green initiatives but also saves a large amount of tax dollars.
Editor's Note: The City Commission has decided to fund the Lauderhill Spotlight for the upcoming fiscal year in the amount of $77,000. It will still be on line, but also mailed. To save on costs, the number of issues for the year will be reduced from 4 to 3.
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Mayor Kaplan Announces His Re-Election Campaign in Lauderhill
Mayor Richard J. Kaplan has announced that he is seeking re-election as Mayor in the City of Lauderhill. The election is schedule for November, 2010.
Anyone wishing to assist in the campaign can contact Mayor Kaplan at 954-752-1732, 954-742-6967, or email kaplan4mayor@comcast.net.
Political advertisement paid for and approved by Richard J. Kaplan, non-partisan, for Mayor of Lauderhill-Seat 5
Anyone wishing to assist in the campaign can contact Mayor Kaplan at 954-752-1732, 954-742-6967, or email kaplan4mayor@comcast.net.
Political advertisement paid for and approved by Richard J. Kaplan, non-partisan, for Mayor of Lauderhill-Seat 5
Lauderhill Resident Asks for Your Vote
Lisa Timmons is a finalist on CBS 4 Phoenix Project Makerover and needs your vote. There are 4 finalist are seeking to receive help in moving their lives forward. Lisa's story is:
"I should be the Phoenix because: I desire to do better. I retired July 2008; my mom had a craniotomy and a mild stroke. I'm building a nonprofit to help at-risk children. It helps me be at home with mom. However, given the economy, I have sought employment as a Director of Development; or anything for three months. Employers are seeking polished, well-kept individuals. I have a skin rash and discoloration over my lower face, scalp, neck, chest and back. I am a single mother, age 45, who weighs 290. I am always tired and desire to be more active with my son who is overweight and wants a pretty mom."
Voting is over July 19, and you can vote by going to: http://cbs4.com/phoenix.
"I should be the Phoenix because: I desire to do better. I retired July 2008; my mom had a craniotomy and a mild stroke. I'm building a nonprofit to help at-risk children. It helps me be at home with mom. However, given the economy, I have sought employment as a Director of Development; or anything for three months. Employers are seeking polished, well-kept individuals. I have a skin rash and discoloration over my lower face, scalp, neck, chest and back. I am a single mother, age 45, who weighs 290. I am always tired and desire to be more active with my son who is overweight and wants a pretty mom."
Voting is over July 19, and you can vote by going to: http://cbs4.com/phoenix.
Monday, July 13, 2009
Mayors of Sister Cities Meet
Recently the Mayor of Lauderhill, Richard J. Kaplan, and Mayor Collin Gagner of one of Lauderhill's Sister Cities, Falmouth, Jamaica, met during the City of Lauderhill's 50th Anniversary Celebration. A delegation led by the Mayor visited several businesses and sites in Lauderhill. Discussions occurred that could result in providing some business to local Lauderhill companies, and result in further art and cultural exchanges.
Saturday, July 11, 2009
School Grades Out for 2009
The following is a list of schools serving Lauderhill children, and the grade they received from the FCAT's:
ELEMENTARY:
Banyan Elementary---------------------------------A
Broward Estates Elementary----------------------A
Castle Hill Elementary------------------------------C
Challenger Elementary-----------------------------A
Endeavor Primary Learning Center--------------no rating
Larkdale Elementary--------------------------------C
Lauderhill Paul Turner Elementary--------------C
Martin Luther King Elementary------------------C
Nova Blanch Forman Elementary----------------A
Nova Eisenhower Elementary---------------------A
Park Lakes Elementary-----------------------------B
Royal Palm Elementary----------------------------C
Village Elementary----------------------------------C
MIDDLE SCHOOLS:
Lauderhill Middle-----------------------------------C
Millennium Middle---------------------------------A
Nova Middle------------------------------------------A
Parkway Middle--------------------------------------C
Smart School Charter Middle---------------------A
Westpine Middle-------------------------------------A
HIGH SCHOOLS:
Boyd Anderson High--------------------------------D
Dillard High------------------------------------------D
Nova High---------------------------------------------A
Piper High---------------------------------------------C
ELEMENTARY:
Banyan Elementary---------------------------------A
Broward Estates Elementary----------------------A
Castle Hill Elementary------------------------------C
Challenger Elementary-----------------------------A
Endeavor Primary Learning Center--------------no rating
Larkdale Elementary--------------------------------C
Lauderhill Paul Turner Elementary--------------C
Martin Luther King Elementary------------------C
Nova Blanch Forman Elementary----------------A
Nova Eisenhower Elementary---------------------A
Park Lakes Elementary-----------------------------B
Royal Palm Elementary----------------------------C
Village Elementary----------------------------------C
MIDDLE SCHOOLS:
Lauderhill Middle-----------------------------------C
Millennium Middle---------------------------------A
Nova Middle------------------------------------------A
Parkway Middle--------------------------------------C
Smart School Charter Middle---------------------A
Westpine Middle-------------------------------------A
HIGH SCHOOLS:
Boyd Anderson High--------------------------------D
Dillard High------------------------------------------D
Nova High---------------------------------------------A
Piper High---------------------------------------------C
Thursday, July 09, 2009
Budget Meetings Scheduled
On Tuesday, July 14, the City Commission will conduct its Annual Budget Workshop Meeting, starting at 10 AM, and working until completed that day. The Workshop will be held in the Commission Chambers at City Hall, 3800 Inverrary Blvd., Suite 111.
This is a public hearing, and members of the public may be able to speak at permitted times. This is an opportunity for the public to make an impact on the budget, to begin Oct. 1, 2010. The next time the budget will be discussed is upon the First Reading of the Budget Ordinance in September.
This is a public hearing, and members of the public may be able to speak at permitted times. This is an opportunity for the public to make an impact on the budget, to begin Oct. 1, 2010. The next time the budget will be discussed is upon the First Reading of the Budget Ordinance in September.
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