Lauderhill Housing Authority Home Ownership Fair This Weekend

You're invited to attend the Lauderhill Housing Authority Homeownership Fair
The Working Professionals Guide to Homeownership

This weekend, the Lauderhill Housing Authority will continue to provide the dream of homeownership to new and existing residents in the City of Lauderhill.  The Housing Authority Board of Commissioners invites you to join us at the Lauderhill Mall this Saturday May 30, 2015 from 12:00 pm to 5:00 pm for a Homeownership Fair that will focus on “The Working Professionals Guide to Homeownership”. The Lauderhill Mall is located at 1267 NW 40^th Avenue.

During the Homeownership Fair, presenters will provide an overview of the home buying process. Representatives from the Lauderhill Housing Authority, City of Lauderhill, local banks, credit unions and other companies/organizations involved in the home buying process will be available to provide information and answer questions. In addition, the Housing Authority will conduct bus tours throughout the day to showcase a selection of condominiums available for sale and lease. Also featured will be new single family home and townhome developments that are available for sale.

The fair is free and open to everyone. Whether you are ready to buy or just starting to think about owning a home, the Lauderhill Homeownership Fair is the place for you. For more information regarding the Homeownership Fair, please contact the Lauderhill Housing Authority at 954-730-3041.

Registration Window For 2015 BCPS Summer Voluntary Prekindergarten Program is Now Open

Voluntary Prekindergarten (VPK) program from June through August 2015. The Summer VPK program is available to children that will be 5-years-old on or before September 1, 2015, and who did not use their VPK Certificate of Eligibility during the 2014/15 school year.

Under the instruction of District certified teachers, Summer VPK classes operate Monday through Thursday, from 7:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., beginning Tuesday, June 9, 2015, through Wednesday, August 5, 2015. Students will receive free breakfast, lunch and a snack.  

To participate in the BCPS 2015 Summer VPK program, parents/guardians must apply for, receive and present a VPK Certificate of Eligibility to their selected school. To receive a Certificate of Eligibility, visit https://vpkcp.floridaearlylearning.com. Parents/Guardians also need to provide required documents such as, proof of age (child’s birth certificate, passport, military dependent card or immunization record) and proof of residency (driver’s license, utility bill or pay stub).

To enroll students in the BCPS 2015 Summer VPK Program, parents/guardians must bring their VPK Certificate of Eligibility to one of the three participating schools listed below.

Liberty Elementary School 2450 Banks Road Margate, FL 33063 754-322-6750

Mirror Lake Elementary School 1200 NW 72ndAvenue Plantation, FL 33313 754-322-7100

Sea Castle Elementary School 9600 Miramar Boulevard Miramar, FL 33025 754-323-7250

For more information about the District’s VPK Program, contact one of the schools listed above or the District’s Head Start/Early Intervention Department at, 754-321-1954.

2015/16 School Choice Late Applications Accepted Beginning May 1, 2015

Parents and guardians interested in submitting a 2015/16 School Choice late application for magnet and reassignment seats still available following the original application window earlier this year, can do so starting this Friday, May 1, 2015.  Seats are available on a first come, first served basis.

Beginning May 1, 2015, parents and guardians can view a list of schools with seats available, download/print the paper application and get answers to frequently asked questions, by visiting browardschools.com and clicking on the School Choice - It’s Easy as 1,2,3 icon.   

Applications will also be available at the first floor security desk in the Kathleen C. Wright Administration Center. Applications may be submitted by mail or in person.

Mail completed applications to:

Attn: Demographics & Student Assignments

School Board of Broward County, Florida

600 SE Third Avenue

Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301

Hand-deliver~completed applications to:

Security Desk - 1st Floor

Kathleen C. Wright Administration Center

Attn: Demographics & Student Assignments

School Board of Broward County, Florida

600 SE Third Avenue

Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301

For more information, contact the Demographics and Student Assignments Department at 754-321-2480.

Ms. Linda Dimeo's 8th Grade Class at Parkway Middle School Wins Contest

CONGRATULATIONS

to PARKWAY MIDDLE SCHOOL - Ms. Linda Dimeo’s 8^th Grade class, for the

City of Lauderhill’s Educational Advisory Board Black History poster Contest:

FIRST PLACE for Lauderhill’s Middle schools.

A winner was chosen on April 29^th 2015.

The prizes to Ms. Dimeo and her participating class will be presented at the school’s end of the year awards ceremony by the

EAB Chairman.

Notes of the Commission Meeting of May 11

On May 11, the City Commission held its regular meeting and the following are notes of interest (all items passed unanimously unless otherwise indicated):

PROCLAMATIONS / COMMENDATIONS:

A. A PROCLAMATION PROCLAIMING STUART GREENBLATT DAY IN THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL, FOR HIS MANY YEARS OF SERVICE TO THE CITY AND TO THE LAUDERHILL PLANNING AND ZONING BOARD.

B. A PROCLAMATION HONORING LAUDERHILL 6-12 AND THE GREEN CITY GARDENING GROUP FOR RECEIVING THE GOLDEN SHOVEL AWARD.


ORDINANCES & PUBLIC HEARINGS - FIRST READING:

ORDINANCE NO. 15O-05-117:  PROVIDING FOR THE ISSUANCE OF NOT EXCEEDING $25,000,000 CITY OF LAUDERHILL, FLORIDA GENERAL OBLIGATION REFUNDING BONDS, SERIES 2015 FOR THE PURPOSE OF ACCOMPLISHING THE CURRENT REFUNDING OF THE CITY’S OUTSTANDING GENERAL OBLIGATION BONDS, SERIES 2005 PREVIOUSLY APPROVED PURSUANT TO A BOND REFERENDUM HELD IN THE CITY AND PAYING COSTS OF ISSUANCE OF SUCH BONDS; PLEDGING THE CITY’S FULL FAITH, CREDIT AND TAXING POWER TO THE PAYMENT OF SUCH BONDS.  The estimated savings to be about $4.5 million.  The bonds will be available to the general public to purchase like the original GO Bonds were.

ORDINANCE NO. 15O-05-118:  AMENDING THE LAND DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS AND PERTAINING TO EDUCATION, BY CREATING A NEW SECTION 5.48., EDUCATION, PRIMARY AND SECONDARY, CHARTER AND PRIVATE SCHOOLS AND ADDING SUBSECTIONS ON APPLICATION FILING REQUIREMENTS, SITE REQUIREMENTS, PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT REQUIREMENTS, OTHER REQUIREMENTS, EXEMPTION, AND EXISTING SCHOOLS IMPLEMENTATION, (REQUESTED BY MAYOR RICHARD J. KAPLAN).

ORDINANCE NO. 15O-05-119: AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE CODE OF ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL, CHAPTER 12, BUSINESS REGULATIONS, ARTICLE II, CERTIFICATE OF USE AND LOCAL BUSINESS TAX RECEIPT, CREATING SECTION 12-59, DOWNTOWN DEVELOPMENT FEE.


RESOLUTIONS:

RESOLUTION NO. 15R-05-92:   AUTHORIZING AND APPROVING THE BROWARD REDEVELOPMENT PROGRAM GRANT APPLICATION IN THE AMOUNT OF $1 MILLION TO BE USED FOR PUBLIC IMPROVEMENTS SUCH AS PARKING, LANDSCAPING, PUBLIC ART, OUTDOOR SEATING AND WALKWAYS ASSOCIATED WITH THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE OLD K-MART SITE ON THE NORTHEAST CORNER OF SUNRISE BOULEVARD AND STATE ROAD 7; FINDING THAT SUCH IMPROVEMENTS WOULD BE A BENEFICIAL USE OF PUBLIC DOLLARS IN SUPPORT OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES AND THAT THE SITE WOULD HAVE A POSITIVE IMPACT ON THE COMMUNITY; AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE ANY NECESSARY DOCUMENTS; PROVIDING TERMS AND CONDITIONS; PROVIDING THAT NO MATCHING FUNDS ARE REQUIRED.

RESOLUTION NO. 15R-05-93:   WAIVING COMPETITIVE BIDDING; AUTHORIZING THE PIGGY BACK OF THE FLORIDA SHERIFF'S ASSOCIATION AND FLORIDA ASSOCIATION OF COUNTIES BID AWARD (14-22-0904) FOR THE PURCHASE OF UP TO FOUR (4) 2016 FORD FUSION VEHICLES FROM ALAN JAY FLEET SALES FOR USE BY THE NEW MOBILE TEAM DIVISION; PROVIDING FOR PAYMENT IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $110,832.00 FROM BUDGET CODE NUMBER 305-311-6117.

RESOLUTION NO. 15R-05-94:  RESCINDING AND REPLACING RESOLUTION NO. 15R-04-89; APPROVING THE NON-EXCLUSIVE REVOCABLE PARKING LICENSE AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL AND THE INVERRARY ASSOCIATION, INC. TO ALLOW ACCESS FOR THE PARKING OF TWO AXLE PASSENGER VEHICLES BY THE INVERRARY ASSOCIATION ON THE PROPERTY KNOWN AS THE LAUDERHILL CITY HALL ANNEX LOCATED  AT 3300 INVERRARY BOULEVARD, LAUDERHILL, FLORIDA.

RESOLUTION NO. 15R-05-95:  APPROVING THE 2015 AMENDMENT TO THE INTERLOCAL AGREEMENT BETWEEN BROWARD COUNTY AND THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL PROVIDING FOR THE DIVISION AND DISTRIBUTION OF THE PROCEEDS OF THE “ORIGINAL” LOCAL OPTION GAS TAX IMPOSED BY THE BROWARD COUNTY LOCAL OPTION GAS TAX ORDINANCE; PROVIDING FOR CITIES TO RECEIVE A PERCENTAGE OF THE PROCEEDS OF THE SIX CENTS OF GAS TAX.

RESOLUTION NO. 15R-05-96:   APPROVING THE 2015 AMENDMENT TO THE INTERLOCAL AGREEMENT BETWEEN BROWARD COUNTY AND THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL FOR THE DIVISION AND DISTRIBUTION OF THE PROCEEDS FROM THE BROWARD COUNTY FIFTH CENT ADDITIONAL LOCAL OPTION GAS TAX ON MOTOR FUEL FOR TRANSIT.

RESOLUTION NO. 15R-05-97:   APPROVING THE 2015 AMENDMENT TO THE "ADDITIONAL" LOCAL OPTION GAS TAX INTERLOCAL AGREEMENT BETWEEN BROWARD COUNTY AND THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL FOR MOTOR FUEL PROVIDING FOR DIVISION AND DISTRIBUTION OF THE PROCEEDS FROM THE BROWARD COUNTY ADDITIONAL LOCAL OPTION OF THREE CENTS OF GAS TAX ON MOTOR FUEL ORDINANCE.

RESOLUTION NO. 15R-05-102:  AUTHORIZING PARTICIPATION IN THE BANK’S COMMUNITY INVESTMENT SERVICES PROGRAMS FOR AFFORDABLE HOUSING; AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION OF AND APPROVING THE ACCESS FORM FOR SPONSOR WEB SYSTEM ACCESS AND TERMS AND CONDITIONS.


QUASI-JUDICIAL MATTERS, FIRST READING:

RESOLUTION NO. 15R-04-90:   GRANTING TO VC LAUDERDALE, INC., D/B/A VEGAS CABARET A SPECIAL EXCEPTION USE DEVELOPMENT ORDER TO ALLOW EXTENDED HOURS OF OPERATION TO 4 AM ASSOCIATED WITH A BAR AND ADULT ENTERTAINMENT KNOWN AS VEGAS CABARET, 5426 - 5428 NORTH UNIVERSITY DRIVE, LAUDERHILL.   Failed 5-0.

CASA / UNIFEST PRESENT SOCCER AND NETBALL SPORTS EXTRAVAGANZA

CASA / UNIFEST joint annual soccer knock out final for the Hazelle Rogers challenge trophy.

Venue: Lauderhill Sports Complex 7500 West Oakland Park Blvd, Lauderhill Fl 33319.

When: May 16^th, 2015

Activities: 

5:00 PM          Dominoes

Soccer Game – Master’s League Defending Champion Lauderhill Lions versus United FC

                        Netball

         
6:30PM           Soccer game – Links United of Orlando versus Lauderhill Juniors

8:30 PM          Feature Game Plantation FC versus Oakland Stars

                        (this promises to be a very exciting game - Oakland Stars who is undefeated in both leagues, met earlier this season with Plantation and played to an exciting 3 / 3 draw)

Admission:      FREE

                        Food and Refreshment on sale. Family Fun day and entertainment

Miami Dolphins Post Draft Report

So another NFL Draft has come and gone.  Now everyone is grading how each team did.  The funny thing is that if you look to past years grades given by "Professionals," it is amazing how off they can be.

Take for instance last year's Dolphin pick of JaWuan James.  He was considered a 2nd round pick as well as Dolphins 2nd round pick of Jarvis Landry.  Both are now considered 1st round quality and James is among the best picks of the 1st round.

Teddy Bridgewater was a 2nd round projected pick and both Blake Bortles and Johnny Mazeil was considered to be a much better 1st round projected picks.  Right now Bridgewater is excelling, Manzeil is borderline bust (but still with some hope) and Bortles is just holding his own.

Then the top draft pick in 2014 was Jadeveon Clowney, who while still may turn out excellent, was injured most of last year.  And don't get me started on the 3rd pick of the draft 2013 of Dion Jordan.

But from this draft, given what has happened, what would you have done at the Dolphin picks when they came up?  Well I would have picked a little differently.

The first round pick of DeVante Parker was a consensus right pick.

The trading down of the second round was also the right move.  But instead of picking Jordan Phillips, which was a gutsy and potentially excellent choice, it is also an incredibly risky choice which could be a major bust, and the Dolphins really don't need that kind of risk for now from the second round.

A much better selection would have been Jake Fisher who could play OG and OT, which the team really needs.  Honestly I didn't think he would be available by this pick and was a borderline 1st round possibility, early second at worse.

If they had picked Jake Fisher (which was much safer and he will be immediately a starter), then the pick of Jamil Douglas would not have been necessary in the fourth round.  My choice would have been Jake Ryan to fill the linebacker need. NOTE:  I am glad they picked up Mike Hull as a UFA (and was surprised he wasn't drafted).

In the fifth round I have no qualms with the selections since they fit the Dolphins needs, but then I might have taken a huge risk on the last pick and not selected Tony Lippett.  I would have selected La'el Collins.

If the investigation clears him, then the Dolphins would have been sitting pretty and addressed every team need.  If it didn't, then we lost a 5th round pick and not everyone makes the team.  That would have been worth it.  Especially now that everyone is trying to sign him as a UFA, and the Dolphins are competing to sign him.  And we could have had him for the taking.   We still might get him, but it's going to be a lot harder than it should have been.

So that's my take on it for what it is worth.  Next up, Rookie Camp, and Training Camp.  Should be fun.

Bank on Lauderhill - Free Financial Fair at Lauderhill 6-12 School, May 14 at 7 PM

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

Contact: Bill Mills, Bank On Florida Director

           Bill@FloridaProsperityPartnership.org, 321-209-4377

            Leslie Johnson, City of Lauderhill

           ljohnson@Lauderhill-fl.gov, 954-739-0100

__________________________________________

Mayor Kaplan Announces Launch of Bank On Lauderhill

Program Aimed at Improving Financial Futures for Half of Lauderhill’s Residents

Lauderhill, Fla. (May 8, 2015) – Lauderhill Mayor Richard J. Kaplan, in collaboration with local nonprofits, financial institutions, and Florida Prosperity Partnership, will be announcing the launch of Bank On Lauderhill, a public-private partnership among the area’s regional financial institutions and community-based organizations aimed at increasing the financial stability of the “unbanked” and “underbanked.”

This announcement will happen at a special Bank On Lauderhill Financial Fair being held at Lauderhill 6-12,  1901 NW 49th Ave., Lauderhill, on Thursday, May 14, 2015 at 7 p.m.  This free event invites everyone in the community to come in and speak with representatives from banks, credit unions and non-profit/social services agencies to assist them to begin or advance their financial planning.

Over half of Lauderhill residents are either unbanked (no checking or savings account) or underbanked (have an account, but frequently use alternative financial services, like check-cashing stores). It’s estimated that a full-time worker without a bank account spends $40,000 over the course of a lifetime just to cash paychecks.  In Lauderhill, 18.4% of households don’t have bank accounts – surpassing the national average of 7.7%. Likewise, 31.9% are underbanked – topping the national average of 20.0 percent. This equates to over 12,000 households in the city.

A few reasons that people cite for not having a bank account include minimum balance requirements, difficulties with an account in the past, lack of appropriate identification, and feeling they don’t have enough money or don’t write enough checks. Bank On Florida has worked to reduce or eliminate those barriers. Participating financial institutions will offer accounts with no or low minimum balance, no or low monthly maintenance fee, and free basic online services. Most partners will make a reasonable effort to open an account even if an individual has had difficulties with an account in the past, such as unpaid overdraft fees. Several partners will also accept alternative forms of identification.

Mayor Kaplan stated, “It is extremely important that our residents are able to develop and maintain a banking relationship to help them handle their financial affairs.  Without it, our residents will have a difficult time trying to grow their savings and properly provide for the financial future.”

  

Bank On Lauderhill was modeled after the Bank On Florida blueprint created by Florida Prosperity Partnership. The Bank On program, originally started in San Francisco, has spread throughout the country and is based on a collaborative effort with local communities and their financial institutions, local governments, and community-based and nonprofit organizations, like the United Way of Broward County.

“A successful relationship starts when a financially educated client is able to choose from a variety of checking and savings account options,” said Bill Mills, Bank On Florida Director and Florida Prosperity Partnership Vice President. “This initiative provides families with reliable choices being offered by banks and credit unions that care about the communities in which they operate.”

For a media kit of Bank On Lauderhill materials, visit http://lauderhill-fl.gov/economic-development/bank-on-lauderhill  or for more information on Bank On Lauderhill, visit http://www.BankOnLauderhill.com.

 ______________________________

About Florida Prosperity Partnership

The Florida Prosperity Partnership (FPP) is a statewide collaboration dedicated to improving the financial stability for low-to-moderate income Floridians. Established in the fall of 2008, the FPP includes over 500 partner organizations from all sectors of Florida. For more information, please contact Bill Mills, Vice President at 321-209-4377.

Notes of the Commission Meeting of April 27

On April 27, the City Commission met and the following are notes of interest (all items passed unanimously unless otherwise indicated):

ORDINANCES & PUBLIC HEARINGS - FIRST READING:

ORDINANCE NO. 15O-04-114:  PROVIDING THAT THE CODE ENFORCEMENT BOARD SHALL PERFORM EX OFFICIO THE DUTIES OF THE NUISANCE ABATEMENT BOARD.

ORDINANCE NO. 15O-04-115: AMENDING SECTION 21-47, SCHEDULE OF RATES AND CHARGES, TABLE 4, WATER SYSTEM MINIMUM CHARGE/AVAILABILITY CHARGE; TABLE 5, WATER SYSTEM VOLUMETRIC RATE AND TABLE 6, SEWER RATES AVAILABILITY CHARGE AND VOLUMETRIC RATE TABLE; PROVIDING THAT THE NEW RATE STRUCTURE SHALL BE EFFECTIVE COMMENCING JUNE 1, 2015.

ORDINANCE NO. 15O-04-116:  AMENDING THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL CODE OF ORDINANCES, CHAPTER 2, ADMINISTRATION, ARTICLE VII, CHARTER REVIEW BOARD, SECTION 2-211, COMPOSITION AND APPOINTMENTS.  This provides that two year appointments to the Charter Board so that their work can begin will move from 2018 to 2016, and occur every 10 years thereafter.

ORDINANCES & PUBLIC HEARINGS - SECOND READING:

ORDINANCE NO. 15O-04-111:   APPROVING THE SALE AND PURCHASE AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL AND WE FLORIDA FINANCIAL FOR WE FLORIDA FINANCIAL TO PURCHASE THE VACANT PARCEL OF LAND LOCATED AT 6279 WEST OAKLAND PARK BOULEVARD, LAUDERHILL SUBJECT TO DEED RESTRICTIONS FOR THE PURCHASE PRICE OF $850,000.00.

RESOLUTIONS:

RESOLUTION NO. 15R-04-84:   AUTHORIZING THE DISPOSAL OF OBSOLETE, DAMAGED, INOPERABLE AND SURPLUS EQUIPMENT IN THE MOST COST EFFECTIVE AND FAVORABLE MANNER.

RESOLUTION NO. 15R-04-86:  APPROVING THE SCHOOL RESOURCE OFFICER (SRO) AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE SCHOOL BOARD OF BROWARD COUNTY, FLORIDA AND THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL, FLORIDA REGARDING THE ASSIGNMENTS AT THE PARTICIPATING SCHOOLS; PROVIDING FOR THE ASSIGNMENT OF TWO (2) SROS AT THE TWO (2) PARTICIPATING MIDDLE SCHOOLS FOR TEN (10) MONTHS; PROVIDING FOR THE ASSIGNMENT OF TWO (2) ADDITIONAL SROS AT THE PARTICIPATING ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS FOR A PERIOD OF SEVEN (7) MONTHS; PROVIDING FOR A TERM COMMENCING OCTOBER 1, 2015 THROUGH SEPTEMBER 30, 2016.

RESOLUTION NO. 15R-04-87:   APPROVING THE EXPENDITURE IN THE AMOUNT OF $1,500.00 FOR THE SPORTS ADVANCING KIDS EDUCATION (S.A.K.E.) AWARD RECIPIENT GIFTS TO THE WINNERS; PROVIDING FOR PAYMENT FROM BUDGET CODE NUMBER 001-713-5710.

RESOLUTION NO. 15R-04-89:  APPROVING THE NON-EXCLUSIVE REVOCABLE PARKING LICENSE AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL AND THE INVERRARY ASSOCIATION, INC. TO ALLOW ACCESS FOR THE PARKING OF TWO AXLE PASSENGER VEHICLES BY MEMBERS OF THE GENERAL PUBLIC DURING MEETINGS AND OTHER EVENTS HELD BY THE CITY ON THE PROPERTY KNOWN AS THE LAUDERHILL CITY HALL ANNEX LOCATED AT 3300 INVERRARY BOULEVARD, LAUDERHILL, FLORIDA.

QUASI-JUDICIAL MATTERS, FIRST READING:

RESOLUTION NO. 15R-04-90:  GRANTING TO VC LAUDERDALE, INC., D/B/A VEGAS CABARET A SPECIAL EXCEPTION USE DEVELOPMENT ORDER TO ALLOW   EXTENDED HOURS OF OPERATION ASSOCIATED WITH A BAR AND ADULT ENTERTAINMENT ESTABLISHMENT  KNOWN AS VEGAS CABARET, 5426 - 5428 NORTH UNIVERSITY DRIVE, LAUDERHILL, FLORIDA. (Tabled at request of Applicant and re-set for May 11)

Lauderhill 6-12 Wins Award

Lauderhill 6-12 has WON Florida Farm to School Golden Shovel Award for the Best New School Garden in the State of Florida. 

The award recognizes extraordinary school garden projects developed during or sustained throughout the school year.

Parkway Middle Annual Art Fair

Parkway Middle Annual Art Fair is taking place next Thursday evening, April 30^th at 6:30 pm in the theatre.  All are invited and the event is free.

Arrest in Homicide at McDonalds on Oakland Park Blvd.

C i t y  o f  L a u d e r h i l l

Lauderhill Police Department

6279 West Oakland Park Blvd, Lauderhill, Florida 33313

Telephone (954) 497-4700

 Police Department

RELEASE # LPDPIO2015-04-03 (A)

Date: April 25, 2015

Contact: Major Rick Rocco

Public Information Officer

rrocco@lauderhill-fl.gov

(954) 497-4705 – Office

(954) 279-9784 - Mobile

SUBJECT: Homicide Arrest

WHO: Khambrel Grant, DOB: 12/16/93 (ARRESTEE)        Victim:  Javaris Domineck

WHAT: Homicide

WHEN: Arrest Date: April 26, 2015      Incident Date: April 24, 2015 – approximately 7:00 PM

WHERE:  Arrest Location: US 441 / W. Oakland Park Blvd, Lauderdale Lakes 

              Incident location: 5510 W. Oakland Park Blvd, Lauderhill, FL 33313

SUMMARY: The Lauderhill Police Department’s Criminal Investigations Division has made an arrest in the homicide of Javaris Domineck. Domineck was shot and killed on Friday, April 24, 2015 at around 7PM at 5510 W. Oakland Park Blvd, Lauderhill, FL.

Detectives identified Khambrel Grant as the suspect and obtained a warrant for his arrest.  Grant was located and arrested at US 441 and W. Oakland Park Blvd on Sunday, April 26, 2015 at approximately 5:00PM by Lauderhill PD detectives. Grant is being charged with second degree murder.

Anyone with information on the shooting please contact Detective Chad Williams at 954 497 4700, or Broward Crime Stoppers at 954 493 TIPS (8477), or by texting anonymously to TIPS 411, enter “LPD” and the information.

###

Final 2015 Dolphin Draft Review - Update #5

When talk about the draft began certain positions were identified as of great need to the Dolphins.  Today those needs are almost the same as when they begin but at the same time they have crafted the draft to their philosophy of being in the position of drafting the best player available.

That said, the Dolphins still need more draft picks, so personally I believe they will be trading down.  Possibly in the 1st round, but also possibly in the 2nd round.  Though they could draft up, I certainly hope not because the talent is quite even and if you look at how teams are constructed, a good part of the roster comes from rounds 2 through 4.  Also, the Dolphins have had a poor history on early 1st round draft picks, particularly when they trade up.  Overall, usually their best talent also comes after the 1st round.

The major area they have vastly improved in is at DT with the acquisition of Suh.  In other areas, Offensive Line, Wide Receiver, Tight End and Cornerback, they have added a few free agents to help hold the line and possibly make some upgrades.  However, they still don't have the talent to really say they have solidified those positions long term.  Plus they still haven't addressed the Linebacker spot, particularly with the issues related to Dion Jordan and getting a bruising Running Back that can get short yard gains in tough situations.

What they do have is now the ability to draft what they want when their selection comes up.  Flexibility is a key advantage to this draft that has a lot of very good deep talent.  It also shows that while the Dolphins want to do well this year, they really are working on a 3 year plan.  This is only year two and it will take at least one more year for the team to fully develop to its full potential through the draft.

Nevertheless, what will the Dolphins be looking for from this draft?  In no particular order, a #1 Wide Receiver, an Inside Linebacker, probably an Outside Linebacker, one to two Guards (possibly one that can also play Tackle), as stated before a strong Running Back to take advantage of short yard situations, and a top line Cornerback.  Don't be surprised in the 6th or 7th round, but more likely as being undrafted, a Kicker, and at some point a Defensive End (because of Jordan).

So what is likely?  In the first round, whether they trade back or not, I think they will be looking at WR like Parker if they stay at 14 and he is still available.  Though not my preference, they could be looking at a RB like Gurley.  CB like Waynes is also possible.  If you are looking at OT/OG then Collins may be available.

Now if you trade down lower into the 1st round and pick up another 2nd round selection, you could have a choice between, OT/OG Collins (still may be available), Humphries or Erving; WR Agholor, Perriman or Dorsett; RB Gordon; ILB Kendricks; or CB Collins.  Not necessarily bad choices.  Then in the 2nd round you can pick up a lot of talent from any of the remaining positions other than what was pick in the 1st Round.  There is a lot of quality CB's, ILB/OLB's, OT/OG's and WR's that could help the team.  Having two choices among them would be a huge help.

Even in the 3rd round (if a the Dolphins obtain a pick there) there is a lot of quality Offensive Lineman left and could be some very good CB's too.  Looking as far as the 5th round there is a lot of potential talent.  I personally like Mike Hull there at ILB if one hasn't previously been selected.

Overall, this appears to be a very deep draft and a lot of potential talent especially in the later rounds.  The key is that you can't get any of it if you don't have a pick.  So that is why I believe the Dolphins should be looking at trying to do.

The City of Lauderhill is Set to Host the 4th Annual Jammin’ in the Park and Art Fest Featuring 1980’s Rappers, the Sugarhill Gang and Gigolo Tony

The City of Lauderhill and Commissioner M. Margaret Bates will host the 4^th Annual Jammin’ in the Park and Art Fest in conjunction with the 7^th Annual Throw Back Celebrity Golf Weekend on Saturday, April 25, 2015 at Ilene Lieberman Botanical Gardens.

This year’s throwback concert will feature the sounds of 1980’s rap group, the Sugarhill Gang who will perform their 1980’s hits, Rappers Delight, Apache and 8^thWonder.  Opening for the Sugarhill Gang will be South Florida’s 1980’s rapping phenom the “Smurf Rock” rapper,Gigolo Tony, and soulful Motown hits from the Old Skool Gang, all girl group Siloet and Ms.  “NAMPHUYO” Aisha Wright McCray.  Legendary DJ, Chico the Virgo, will host the evening along with DJ Big Man Kelly from the Rick Party in the Afternoon Show who will be spinning on the turntables.

For the past four year’s the City of Lauderhill has partnered with the Annual Throwback Celebrity Golf Weekend hosted by WPGA Paula Tucker and the greatLawrence Taylor of the Fore Life Organization to bring this magnificent event to the City of Lauderhill, which gives local businesses and vendors an opportunity to showcase their skills and products to the South Florida Community.

The 4^th Annual Jammin’ in the Park and Art Fest

Saturday, April 25, 2015

Ilene Lieberman Botanical Gardens

3801 Inverrary Blvd., Lauderhill, FL 33319

4:00 PM – 10:00 PM

This is a free event sponsored and funded in part by the Broward County Board of County Commissioners as recommended by the Broward Cultural Council, Phil Smith Chevrolet, WE Florida Financial, Fore Life, Lauderhill Arts Center, Westside Gazette, Caribbean National Weekly, the Greater Fort Lauderdale Visitors & Convention Bureau and the Inverrary Association, Inc.

There will be an Art Show and Sale by the Lauderhill Art Center Artists – selling contemporary and affordable art. Parking is FREE – Food trucks will be on site – Bring your beach chairs and take it back to the old school at Jammin’ in the Park Art Fest.

For information about the 4^th Annual Jammin’ in the Park and Art Fest, call (954) 730-3000.

Lauderhill LIVE! a free concert for all ages

Experience Juggernaut, a powerful force that can’t be stopped. These talented artists from Encore Performing Arts Center have teamed up with the Lauderhill Mall to present Lauderhill LIVE! A Free Concert for All Ages. Join us on this musical journey from old school to new school. The fun starts at 3 pm. Live music, contests, raffles, prizes, and free popcorn and cotton candy. Free for the entire family.

Date: Saturday, April 25, 2015

Time: 3 pm

Location: Lauderhill Mall 1267 NW 40th Avenue Lauderhill, FL 33313

Contact: Georgette “Gigi” Belton Event Contact: 954-309-5665

Notes of the Regular Commission Meeting of April 13

On Monday, April 13, the City Commission met in regular session and the following are notes of interest (all items passed unanimously unless otherwise indicated):

ORDINANCES & PUBLIC HEARINGS - FIRST READING:

ORDINANCE NO. 15O-04-108:   APPROVING THE SIX MONTH BUDGET REVIEW OF REVENUE AND EXPENDITURE AMENDMENTS; APPROVING A SUPPLEMENTAL APPROPRIATION; REFLECTING ADJUSTMENTS TO VARIOUS REVENUE AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNTS.

ORDINANCE NO. 15O-04-109:  AMENDING THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL CODE OF ORDINANCES CHAPTER 9, FIRE PROTECTION, PREVENTION AND LIFE SAFETY, ARTICLE IV, EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES, SECTION 9-61, USER FEES TO UPDATE THE MEDICAL SERVICES TRANSPORT FEES.

ORDINANCE NO. 15O-04-110:  AMENDING THE CITY CODE OF ORDINANCES CHAPTER 4, ANIMALS AND FOWL, ARTICLE III, PET SHOPS AND COMMERCIAL KENNELS; AMENDING THE REGULATIONS GOVERNING THE SALE OF DOGS AND CATS; AMENDING SECTION 4-31, DEFINITIONS; AMENDING SECTION 4-41, PET SHOPS; CREATING SECTION 4-41.5, CERTIFICATE OF SOURCE OF DOGS AND CATS.

ORDINANCE NO. 15O-04-111:   APPROVING THE SALE AND PURCHASE AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL AND WE FLORIDA FINANCIAL FOR WE FLORIDA FINANCIAL TO PURCHASE THE VACANT PARCEL OF LAND LOCATED AT 6279 WEST OAKLAND PARK BOULEVARD, LAUDERHILL SUBJECT TO DEED RESTRICTIONS FOR THE PURCHASE PRICE OF $850,000.00.

RESOLUTIONS:

RESOLUTION NO. 15R-04-80:  SUPPORTING THE CARIBBEAN VILLAGE HEALTH & WELLNESS FAIR TO BE HELD ON JUNE 14, 2015; PROVIDING THAT THE CITY WILL PROVIDE IN-KIND SERVICES TO BE DETERMINED BY THE CITY MANAGER IN EXCHANGE FOR THE CITY BEING RECOGNIZED AND LISTED AS A SPONSOR OF THE EVENT.

RESOLUTION NO. 15R-04-81:  APPROVING THE SEVENTH AMENDMENT TO THE LEASE CONTRACT BETWEEN BROWARD COUNTY AND THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL FOR THE ONE (1) YEAR EXTENSION OF THE LAUDERHILL MALL LEASE.

RESOLUTION NO. 15R-04-82:   ACCEPTING THE PROPOSAL OF JMW CONSTRUCTION, INC. IN THE AMOUNT OF $172,000.00 FOR REFURBISHMENT OF THE MEDITATION PARK FOUNTAIN AND POND AT INVERRARY; PROVIDING FOR PAYMENT FROM BUDGET CODE NUMBER 450-925-6225.

RESOLUTION NO. 15R-04-83:   AUTHORIZING THE SETTLEMENT OF THE LITIGATION STYLED CITY OF SUNRISE, ET. AL. VS. BROWARD COUNTY; AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE A SETTLEMENT AGREEMENT WITH BROWARD COUNTY; AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE A SETTLEMENT PROCEEDS DISTRIBUTION AGREEMENT WITH THE SETTLING MUNICIPALITIES.

Red Cross Continues Campaign to Reduce Home Fire Deaths and Injuries in Lauderhill

The American Red Cross continued its Home Fire Preparedness Campaign in Lauderhill and across the country.  The campaign aims to reduce the number of deaths and injuries caused by home fires by as much as 25% over the next five years. The campaign focuses on increasing the use of smoke alarms in neighborhoods with high numbers of home fires.  Red Cross volunteers with help from Lauderhill Fire-Rescue and the Lauderhill Police Department canvassed an estimated 200 homes installing 48 smoke alarms and changed 15 smoke alarm batteries.

WHAT:     Red Cross volunteers with the help from Lauderhill Fire-Rescue and the Lauderhill Police Department canvassed an estimated 200 homes in Lauderhill installing 48 smoke alarms as part of Red Cross Home Fire Preparedness Campaign.

WHERE:   Lauderhill

·         NW 42^nd Avenue

·         NW 42^nd Terrace

·         NW 43^rd Avenue

·         NW 43^rd Terrace

·         NW 44^th Avenue

·         NW 44^th Terrace

·         NW 46^th Avenue

·         NW 47^th Avenue

·         NW 26^th Street

·         NW 27^th Street

·         NW 25^th Place

WHY:      The Red Cross is asking every household in America to take two simple steps that can save lives: check or install smoke alarms and practice fire drills at home.

Mayor's Report Card and Upcoming Goals

Every once in awhile it is important to look at what you planned, evaluate if you succeeded and what you are looking forward to in the future. As Mayor, I have done this periodically, the most recent time before being in January.  Therefore now, 3 months later, is a good time to update and reflect.

1)  7th Season of Jazz Picnic in the Park - December through April

     The season started in December and ends tomorrow.  We have had a lot of success and already we are looking at next season.  As usual 5 Jazz Concerts will be planned for the 8th Season, running on the 2nd Sunday from December to April.  More info at www.lauderhilljazz.com

2)  3rd Season of Tribute Concerts (Beatles and Journey) - February and March

     These concerts were highly successful.  Again we are looking on our 4th Season with expanding it to 3 concerts.  We are looking at Tributes to the Beatles, and possibly such other groups as the Eagles, Elton John, Fleetwood Mack or Motown as possibilities.  The concerts are going to move to permanently scheduled Saturday nights.   Some options are the 1st Saturday of each month from March through May, or the 4th or last Saturday of February to April.   More info will be posted at www.lauderhilljazz.com

3)  Posting our Concert Season on Facebook
      We now have a Facebook Page for Lauderhill Jazz Picnic and Tribute Concerts as well as a Mayor's Aide page which you can like or friend.  The most updated information on our concerts are posted there.

4)  Kids of Character Pizza Party with Royal Palm Elementary and adding another school - December and May

     The December Party took place in Royal Palm Elementary and Paul Turner Elementary.  Also, the other Commissioners have adopted other elementary schools in Lauderhill to duplicate this program.  We are now planning the next parties in May.

5)  Regional Chess Tournament for under 18 years of age - March

     While a Regional Chess Tournament is not taking place, we have had the Mayor's Chess Challenge been played in many cities.  Also, Lauderhill hosted in March a Chess Challenge.  Approximately 20 challengers played against the Florida State Champion at the Lauderhill Cultural Museum.  The results, the Champion one all of the games but one which was a draw.  

6)  Completion of "Guide to the City of Lauderhill" and distribution - December/January

     This has taken longer than expected since we wanted to be as thorough as possible.  Now in our 11th Revisions we believe the guide is finished and we are seeking bids to have copies published.  We hope to have this available in May. 

7)  Completion of Early Childhood Programs Brochure for Parents to teach their children from birth to 5 years of age, in conjunction with Vroom and the Bezos Family Foundation - 2014

     This program was launched and the brochures are being distributed to parents throughout the area.

8)  Design and prepare to distribute a new Tell the Mayor Survey specifically on Economic Development, use of Social Media, and use of recreational facilities - Results in March

     Due to time constraints this survey has not been worked on very much.  At this point we are not looking to move forward on it.

9)  Launch the Lauderhill Mobile App

     Though attempts to launch a Mobile App were tried, the city is still working on it.  It is funded in the budget.

10)  Launch the Economic Development LoopLink to allow users to search commercial properties in Lauderhill through the City’s website.

      This is funded in the budget and is now available on the city's web site.

11)  Launch Bank on Lauderhill as part of the Bank on Florida Program

      This is a new program to deal with un-banked and under-banked residents.  In Lauderhill alone it is estimated that almost 50% of the population fall into these categories.  This means that instead of using banks, our residents are using much more expensive alternative financial companies such as Check Cashing Stores, Pay Day Stores and Pawn Shops to handle their business affairs.  The program involves Banks, Credit Unions and Non-Profit Agencies getting together and helping provide residents with very low costs accounts at traditional financial institutions.  Soft opening of this program is starting in April and a Public Announcement with Financial Fair is planned for May.  Information will be posted on the city's web site.

12)  Create new regulations concerning Charter and Private Schools

     Presently the city has a 6 month moratorium concerning new Charter and Private Schools, to give the city time to create regulations to help protect our students and assure them the education that they are expecting.  State laws severely prevent the School Board from handling much of this responsibility so it now falls onto cities to see to the Health, Safety and Welfare, often through our zoning laws, to accomplish this.  New ordinances are expected to be in front of the Commission in May/June.

13)  Redesign of Evaluation Forms for Charter Officers and Contracted Attorneys
     New forms are being created to better address how we evaluate personnel of the city.  It is expected to be ready for use this summer when evaluations occur.  It is also being expanded to Contracted Attorneys working for the Safe Neighborhood District and Code Enforcement Board.

Jazz Picnic in the Park - Last Concert of the Season

The last jazz concert of the 7th season is being performed April 12, starting at 10:30 am.  This free event is performed at the Lieberman Botanical Garden's Amphitheatre on Inverrary Blvd., next to the Inverrary Hotel.

An old favorite band, Jazz Survivors, will be performing.

Bring your blankets, chairs and picnic baskets and enjoy the sun and sounds of Jazz.  For more information go to www.lauderhilljazz.com.

Next season's schedule of Jazz and Tribute concerts is starting to be worked on and updates will be posted on the lauderhilljazz web site.  Also you can like or friend us on Facebook at Lauderhill Jazz Picnic in the Park or Mayor's Aide pages.

Notes of the Commission Meeting of March 30

On March 30, the City Commission held its Regular Commission Meeting.  The following are notes of interest (all items passed unanimously unless otherwise indicated):

RESOLUTIONS:

RESOLUTION NO. 15R-03-56:  AUTHORIZING THE AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL AND THE BROWARD CULTURAL COUNCIL FOR THE CULTURAL TOURISM PROGRAM GRANT; PROVIDING FOR GRANT FUNDS IN THE AMOUNT OF $20,300.00; WITH THE CITY PROVIDING MATCHING FUNDS IN THE AMOUNT OF $20,300.00 FROM THE APPROPRIATE BUDGET CODE NUMBER.

RESOLUTION NO. 15R-03-58:   APPROVING THE DONATION OF FUNDS IN THE AMOUNT OF $1,000.00 FROM THE STATE LOCAL LAW ENFORCEMENT TRUST FUND (LETF) TO SUPPORT THE LAUDERHILL 6-12 STEM-MED 2015 TECHNOLOGY LEADERSHIP CAMP FOR CODING AND GAME DEVELOPMENT; PROVIDING FOR PAYMENT FROM BUDGET CODE NUMBER 120-683-9935.

RESOLUTION NO. 15R-03-71:   APPROVING THE LETTER OF INTENT FROM CENTRE-LINE REAL ESTATE SERVICES, LLC. AS AGENT FOR WE FLORIDA FINANCIAL F/K/A CITY COUNTY CREDIT UNION TO THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL TO PURCHASE THE PROPERTY LOCATED AT 6279 W. OAKLAND PARK BOULEVARD, LAUDERHILL, FLORIDA, FROM THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL FOR THE PURCHASE PRICE OF $850,000.00.

RESOLUTION NO. 15R-03-72:   RESCINDING AND REPLACING RESOLUTION 15R-03-50; APPROVING THE LOCAL AGENCY PROGRAM AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE STATE OF FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION AND THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE N.W. 35TH AVENUE CORRIDOR FROM N.W. 1ST STREET TO N.W. 5TH PLACE INCLUDING A MULITPURPOSE PATH EXPANSION AND PEDESTRIAN AND BICYCLE IMPROVEMENTS, TO INSTALL LANDSCAPING, IRRIGATION AND OTHER SCENIC AMENITIES AND TO PROVIDE FOR BICYCLE LAND STRIPING ALONG N.W. 1ST STREET AND N.W. 36TH AVENUE, PROVIDING THAT THE CITY WILL RECEIVE $577,102.00 IN GRANT FUNDS FOR THIS PURPOSE; PROVIDING THAT THE TOTAL ESTIMATED COST OF THE PROJECT IS $698,566.00.