County Commission Meeting

Broward County, FL · · More Broward County, FL meetings · More Florida meetings

Transcript

Download: Text · SRT
SOURCE TRANSCRIPT

This transcript is downloaded from the source you provided but we haven't reviewed it for accuracy. Treat it as a starting point, not a verbatim record. You can also request an AI-transcription of the audio file with the button to the left.

[14:28] >> One nation under God indivisible with liberty and justice for all.
[14:39] >> Please remain standing. Please remain standing is customary every observed a
[14:42] moment of silence and honor of notable persons from our community who have recently
[14:47] passed. I am going to go around the dais to ask commissioners if they want to
[14:54] recognize anybody. >> I don't remember how to use
[15:00] this thing because I have been gone so long. That is good. Welcome back everyone and to
[15:03] those in the audience watching us online. The first would like to acknowledge Steve
[15:08] Geller because he reminded me of my mom this morning. I was trying to be strong. Thank you
[15:15] everyone for your kindness and just thanking you. I don't want to talk about it. But a
[15:23] special tribute that was made by the Geller family to plant a tree in honor is greatly
[15:33] appreciated. Thank you very much. Let's go back to the people of my district. Ofc.
[15:41] Mack Williams city of sunrise. We are deeply saddened by the passing of officer McNeil a
[15:48] beloved member of sunrise Police Department since 2019. And our heartfelt thoughts are
[15:55] with her, family and children and of course make her dedicated legacy bring comfort
[16:04] to all who knew her. Mr. Archie's city of dear legs, we extend our deepest condolences
[16:14] to the family and friend of Mr. Archie and Hon. Veteran and dear friend and longtime
[16:23] supporter. Participation involved in the Eastgate homeowners Association be
[16:30] profoundly and gratefully to thank him for his service. And we will deeply miss him
[16:44] Eastgate and may his soul rest in peace. Thank you for listening.
[16:48] >> I want to first recognize Dottie Mancini. Dottie Mancini was a huge force in the health
[16:55] ministry. She actually worked her way up from being a nurse all the way to being the point
[17:04] of CEO. Two they named it that Dottie parked behind the hospital. A true warrior for
[17:10] our county. She was the secretary of the golf Association an active member at
[17:20] the tower. She actually worked for Broward County schools system when she retired. She
[17:26] will be truly missed. And Marion Macauley was another fixture at the Palm Beach
[17:30] Chamber of Commerce. She worked for 16 years and suddenly passed away so our
[17:38] prayers are with her and her family. And Larry Davis a prominent attorney here in Fort
[17:43] Lauderdale and a lot of you knew and he is dear. Another surprise at the end of the day
[17:50] that Larry passed so we keep everybody in our prayers.
[18:01] >> We had a couple of giants passed away in southeast Broward in the last couple
[18:03] weeks. One was Steve and many people knew him. He was a good man in so many ways to so many
[18:11] people for so many reasons and he found ways to help people all over this county. He was
[18:16] our I think he was the department head and I'm not sure what it was for homeless
[18:23] in the county while he was here. This was a number of years ago. Everybody will go
[18:31] see him for best practices. He was the go to person in this county. He was one of the
[18:37] kindest people. And our prayers go out to Kathy his wife. And also to Larry Davis
[18:49] who was also just a giant in this county. In terms of helping just people all over.
[19:00] But in terms of elections and trying to preserve democracy in this county nobody worked
[19:06] harder around that. Nobody. He was a go to person on election monitoring and making
[19:14] sure that our government and democracy and both will be incredibly missed.
[19:24] >> I will also like to recognize the loss of Larry Davis. Larry was just a giant
[19:33] in this community. He really cared about people, vulnerable people. I had the privilege of
[19:44] working with him for many years on the health coalition. He was a founding member of BB
[19:53] HSC. They were dear friends. I just think the people with mental illness, he was always
[20:05] concerned, he cared a great deal. My thoughts and prayers go out to Janet his wife and
[20:25] his family. He will be sorely missed in this community believes an incredible legacy.
[20:29] Which would be great if everyone could follow.
[20:32] >> I also want to extend my condolences to Larry Davis family. He told me I was his
[20:37] favorite County Commissioner. I really liked Larry and I enjoyed working with him.
[20:48] Larry, I will miss him just a great guy. I also we lost Dave Eric's Candace's father. I
[20:57] like to call him uncle Dave because he used to give me a lot of good advice over the
[21:00] years. Candace is great and Dave was an interesting fun guy. He is in my prayers and
[21:11] my thoughts for his family and I think there is a celebration of life on Monday. He deserves
[21:17] it and I look forward to celebrating his life.
[21:26] >> Let us all honor all of the brave men and women who have served and continue to serve in
[21:34] our armed forces both here and abroad and thank them for their service. I asked that we pause
[21:39] a moment of silence. Thank you, please have a seat.
[21:54] >> Maryland real quick I wanted to recognize someone who has always been our security
[22:06] here. Officers Davis is going to be the last day. Serving in this capacity so officer Davis
[22:09] I want to thank you for all you have done for us. God bless you. [APPLAUSE]
[22:20] >> MAYOR BOGEN: I was also wrong by saying the attorneys last day. This is your last
[22:22] commission meeting but you're still going to come to our 25th budget meeting so it is not
[22:25] your last day. >> I made plans for tomorrow
[22:28] or next week, Mayor. [LAUGHTER]
[22:36] >> MAYOR BOGEN: Today's breakfast music was provided by Vice Mayor McKinzie. It must
[22:44] be the music by secret weapon. And have to give it up by Marvin Gaye. I think vice
[22:49] mayor is he on the line now? >> He is.
[22:50] >> MAYOR BOGEN: Okay, great. >> VICE-MAYOR McKINZIE: Yes I
[23:02] am, good morning. >> MAYOR BOGEN: We have an
[23:03] 11:30 a.m. special set time for number 85. Today, we are going to start with two proclamation.
[23:06] The first proclamation before we get down to it many of us who have been here have been
[23:13] here 12 years and a lot of us we used to get annual every year people would come here
[23:15] talking about our animal care and how well the animals were treated and not good. We
[23:27] finally got a director of the animal care division who is doing a super great job. We
[23:30] want to honor him Doug Brightwell if you want to come on down? [APPLAUSE]
[23:49] Okay, where is Broward County a leader who brings more than 20 years of comprehensive animal
[24:13] welfare experience for Broward County animal care. The second largest county operated animal
[24:16] welfare agency in Florida. And whereas Mr. Brightwell's leadership Broward County
[24:19] animal care and celebrating a record setting year of lifesaving impact achieving
[24:21] remarkable gains in fiscal year 2025 including 3894 pet adoptions. Over 160 more than
[24:31] the previous year. 565 reunification's with families representing a 31% increase.
[24:35] 733 rescue transferred nearly 200 more than the year prior. What a great job. Where as Mr.
[24:48] Brightwell's directions has led to faster pathways to safety for animals reducing the
[24:51] average stay for dogs by nearly 11 days. And for cats it has been more than two days
[24:56] contributing to higher quality care and quicker matches with loving families. And where as
[25:04] the agencies live release rate close to it 82% continue progress in saving lives and
[25:10] reflecting Mr. Brightwell's commitment to ensuring that every pet receives
[25:26] compassionate care in the best possible outcome. And whereas since assuming the role of
[25:28] director Mr. Brightwell has strengthen community partnerships, elevated public
[25:31] visibility, decrease long-term dog populations by 9% and increased short statements to
[25:43] all outcomes by 8% within the first seven months of leadership. And lastly where
[25:45] is Broward County animal care has flourished under his leadership earning three
[25:48] national awards for excellence including the procedures judges award for its shelter capacity
[25:51] crisis campaign, expanding adoption programs for long stay dogs, increasing cat and kitten
[25:59] adoptions to retail partnerships and enhancing public outreach through
[26:02] expanded vaccination clinics, sterilization programs and humane code enforcement. Now
[26:24] it be proclaimed by the County Board of County commissioners that the Board hereby owners
[26:26] William Douglas Brightwell for his exceptional leadership, steadfast dedication to animal
[26:30] welfare and inspiring service to residents and animals. [APPLAUSE]
[26:32] Do you want to say anything? >> Thank you Mayor, vice
[26:35] mayor, commissioners and administration. I want to say it has been a huge privilege
[26:38] for me to be here in Broward counties and the support of this commission and
[26:49] administration. It has enabled us to the great work that we're doing. Our team from the
[26:51] kennel staff, animal control officers, and ministration, customer service folks they all
[26:54] worked very hard and care a great deal about the work that we do. I want to thank them
[27:00] because they are the reason we are successful in doing the things that we are doing.
[27:03] Thank you all very much. [APPLAUSE]
[28:28] >> Mayor, can I say something real quick? I really appreciate the fact that you
[28:30] are shining a light on those employees and the departments that are doing so much. Given
[28:33] the tax amendment that is coming up, it is good for people to know all the
[28:39] different things that the County does. Emily -- animal control is one of those things.
[28:44] It is good to know. >> MAYOR BOGEN: I'm sorry, our
[29:12] next proclamation is for developmental resources, education workforce. And the
[29:31] reason there is nobody down here from the developmental resources educational workforce
[29:35] is because there is no such organization. [LAUGHTER] Can you believe that? I think
[29:42] this is the first time we wanted to do a proclamation and the Association is not
[29:48] existing. I think I misspelled it. If we take out this word here and we take out this word
[30:00] here and then we take out this word here and we take out this word here and we leave four
[30:08] letters. [LAUGHTER] So really I might as well give it to Drew. [LAUGHTER]
[30:19] [LAUGHTER] [APPLAUSE] Sorry Drew I have a bad sense of humor. Normally a
[30:47] proclamation talks about a person's schooling and their background and it is kind of
[30:55] boring. What I wanted to do is a proclamation where his clients actually are a part of
[31:10] the proclamation. They can say how they feel about him. We are his clients, we are the
[31:13] Board of County commissioners. You are our attorney so this proclamation each one of us has
[31:15] something to say and we are going to start with district one, Senator Rich. Senator
[31:17] Rich, why don't you go first? And then you give it to Drew.
[31:23] >> SENATOR RICH: I am happy to. Whereas Drew has had a long and distinguished career with
[31:31] Broward County and has been a very special part of my experience as a Broward County
[31:41] Commissioner. He is compassionate, considerate, caring and always ready to
[31:43] help. Drew is always making sure that he keeps us out of trouble while trying to find a
[31:51] way to help us achieve our goals that we wish to accomplish.
[32:08] >> MAYOR BOGEN: Where as when looking for the definition of the word honesty, integrity,
[32:10] class, intelligence and ethical you do not need to go any further than looking at Andrew
[32:13] Meyers. What an outstanding individual that will be greatly missed. Thank you for your
[32:16] friendship, advice, and always being there.
[32:23] >> COMMISSIONER UDINE: Whereas you managed to nearly and politics -- impossible for
[32:35] years keeping them opinionated type a personalities in line legally, you did it with great
[32:37] wisdom wit and humor. Enjoy your well-deserved next chapter.
[32:50] >> Whereas for the past eight years Drew Meyers.[LAUGHTER] Whereas for the past eight
[33:03] years Drew Meyers has been an inspirational part of my life and a mentor to me
[33:07] professionally and personally. I have never met such an outstanding individual
[33:10] displaying class and dignity and always placing others before himself. A true public
[33:18] servant. His expertise, knowledge and government law is parallel to none and will be
[33:21] irreplaceable for many years to come. I asked for God's blessings upon him and Dawn and
[33:28] now able to get their fruits of labor.
[33:40] >> Where as I dealt with many government attorneys and Andrew Meyers is undoubtably one of
[33:50] the best. A great lawyer, a great leader, a great friend and he will certainly be
[33:57] missed. We will still be seeing each other. [LAUGHTER]
[34:05] >> Where as we are thankful for your subtle way of watching our back by slowly standing up
[34:12] and giving us the dad look when we are side barring too close for comfort. Thank you.
[34:26] >> COMMISSIONER DAVIS: Whereas drew has served of our counties attorney's office well and as a
[34:35] fellow Sagittarius, I can relate to his no-nonsense style, tenacity as well as his
[34:41] sincerity. I wish you an adventurous and fun filled retirement.
[34:52] >> MAYOR BOGEN: Vice Mayor McKinzie I will read yours unless you want to read yours?
[35:03] >> VICE-MAYOR McKINZIE: Whereas four years we have been together it will be forever
[35:05] etched into our walls. >> COMMISSIONER ROGERS: I see
[35:21] the respect from your team and the trust. Best wishes for the future. Enjoy.
[35:31] >> MAYOR BOGEN: Now proclaimed by the Board of County commissioners that the Board
[35:43] hereby designate Thursday, August 20, 2026 as Andrew Drew Meyers day in Broward County,
[35:45] Florida. [APPLAUSE] >> MR. MEYERS: I will come down
[36:28] for a picture. Thank you. I am going to grab it from over there and I promise you it is
[37:02] short. Thank you everybody. I got emotional for a second but I rallied. [LAUGHTER]
[37:17] Thank you to Melissa for bringing me a tissue just in case. Dawn is here, it always
[37:27] makes me emotional. I was expecting to look at you guys when I was doing this. I will
[37:34] do it this way. [LAUGHTER] Thank you for your very kind comments and I would like to
[37:44] briefly recognize some people. First, the board and vice Mary you are up there somewhere. --
[37:49] Vice Mayor. Everything was flawless today. Thank you for trusting me to be County
[38:01] attorney and for your consistent support for the office. I think most of you
[38:09] know or at least five of you know, I had planned to be County Attorney for five years
[38:17] and I wind it up doing it for almost 9 and that is a direct result of the respect and
[38:19] appreciation I have for the board. Five members of the board that appointed me are
[38:22] still on the dais. I want to recognize them. Senator Rich among your great qualities is
[38:33] your tireless passion for speaking for those in need. The times I have seen you most
[38:35] upset and I haven't seen you upset a lot but the times I have seen you most upset were
[38:37] when things were not moving quickly enough and negatively impacting County services. I
[38:46] can imagine there is anyone in the state was focused more on the issue of housing
[38:52] affordability. Mayor Bogen on top of your many strengths and success as a public official,
[38:59] lawyer and businessperson, you have consistently championed matters that protect people.
[39:05] Your heart project is a great example but only one example. You are also perhaps and I
[39:10] think we all know the most generous person that I know. Commissioner Udine I greatly
[39:15] admire your practicality, directness and business acumen. You call it how you see it and
[39:25] you have a great crystal ball. You really do you should be in Vegas more. [LAUGHTER]
[39:30] And your will willing to take stand on things when you know doing so will be swimming
[39:32] against the current. Senator Geller, I've watched you which are tremendous experience as a
[39:48] lawyer and legal skills. You have worked mediations with me and I want to maneuver and I
[39:51] see how quickly people come to trust you. That is a rare talent. Commissioner Furr, not
[39:54] too far behind me. I litigated the term limits case and I am happy to go part of it is we
[40:06] got to have all of you because the term limits and the bad part is sometimes we lose one
[40:09] of you. We have worked together on a number of matters and regardless of what the
[40:16] matter is your knowledge and collegiality combined to move the needle even in settings and
[40:22] the county is seen as an outsider. Four of our commissioners took off after I
[40:28] was appointed. Commissioner Fisher, I was upset when Commissioner Lamarck the left.
[40:38] Imagine how blessed I felt with somebody who has tremendous experience, high character,
[40:44] skill and dedication to Dead Sea. It is truly a blessing. What great welcome to get Vice
[40:51] Mayor McKinzie and Commissioner Rogers area vice --. Vice Mayor, you are shrewd and
[41:02] direct. You will be a fine Mayor. Commissioner Rogers we are your skills, your kindness
[41:11] and graciousness are very much appreciated. The most recent leave was Commissioner Ryan. I
[41:19] learned a lot from him over the years watching him and I miss working with him. As we know
[41:21] commissioners Ryan spot was taken by Commissioner Davis. We probably have too much and
[41:27] comment for our own good. But that is okay. I wish you every success moving forward and best
[41:33] of luck. To our County auditor, Bob I appreciate you Kathy and everything your team
[41:43] do. I want to recognize the counties amazing staff let it -- led by Monica. Monica you
[41:55] put together an amazing team. I will not mention a bunch of names because I do not want to
[41:58] take too long and I will risk leaving some folks out. I want to recognize Kevin. I worked
[42:00] with Kevin and he is multitasking even right now. He has -- adds value to
[42:10] everything and he touches a lot of things. The last group I want to mention is the legal
[42:13] team. I could say a lot of them are here now. I could say great things about every last
[42:18] one of them. And I can write about some of them for hours. You guys know sometimes I do.
[42:29] We have the deep bench, broad expertise and total dedication. We know we need to be
[42:32] responsive, creative, efficient, and right. It has been a joy to watch so many
[42:43] grow into incredible lawyers and am proud to call them my colleagues. Our Deputy County
[42:45] Attorney's a critical part of the success we achieve. The lawyers have been with office
[42:50] longer than I have. Have a total command of the practice areas which enable me to become
[43:02] conversant in those areas rather than fluent which has been a tremendous help. We
[43:05] recently celebrated my taste 35th year with office. Mike is leaving later this year after
[43:07] 38 years with the office. Those are big shoes to fill. Then we have by comparison the
[43:17] new guard Danielle, Adam and Nathaniel. There are excellent lawyers and leaders that will
[43:19] continue to elevate the office. You'll notice that is not Renate. [LAUGHTER]
[43:23] RenC)e is in Northern Californi balancing work, hiking and squeezing a few more weeks at
[43:34] summer. RenC)e leads by example, is a quick learner, all will end do work. And an
[43:36] expert in so many things. So today and became County attorney, she has been an
[43:38] essential part of building the office. The last lawyer I will mention is my successor.
[43:46] Annika is brilliant, accomplished, dedicated and independent. She is ready to
[43:56] lead the office. I'm confident Annika will consistently provide a timely and wise
[43:58] counsel I have always tried my best to provide. I want to thank Melissa for keeping the
[44:09] ministry staff moving smoothly. And finally my wife Dawn is here today. She knows how I
[44:12] feel about her so I will not get into that. [LAUGHTER] I do want to thank her for all
[44:17] of the sacrifices that she has made and all the things she has done to enable me to do the
[44:29] best job that I could. Has been an honor to be County attorney. Thank you.
[44:32] [APPLAUSE] >> MAYOR BOGEN: Before I get to
[46:38] my other items, first of all, where's Dennis Walker? Dennis where are you? Did he leave
[46:48] already? Dennis? Vice Mayor McKenzie have one of his staff people. Dennis? We have had a
[47:02] heart program where people get scanned. We have scanned over thousands of people. He went
[47:09] for scanning he had 98% blockage and got a stent. It is great to have you back.
[47:18] [APPLAUSE] Also, we also have something real quickly on our agenda
[47:27] about spirits. Commissioner Udine was spot on. All the buildings sold for $92 million.
[47:39] Multifamily which would bring it down even less. You were spot on and thanks. What I
[47:55] want to do right now because we get some people in the audience waiting. I am going to skip
[47:58] all the way to agenda item number 62. Before I get to that, when an athlete does
[48:12] great and an athlete has a profession and a degrading their support generally
[48:17] speaking they are honored when they leave by being put in the Hall of Fame. Judges and
[48:26] lawyers do not a -- have a hall of fame. The best way to honor up person in the legal
[48:40] profession is by naming a courtroom. For number 62 I'm asking if someone would move 60
[48:42] 2A which waives the requirements. I have a motion and a second all in favor?
[48:46] >> Aye. >> MAYOR BOGEN: Show that
[48:53] passing 8/0. The question is on 62 B. It is in our courtroom and so well deserved for this
[49:09] person of legal profession is outstanding and that is Andrew Meyers. [APPLAUSE]
[49:23] I would like to know if I can get someone to move 62 I would like to know if I can get
[49:25] someone to move 62 B? Let's take a vote. All in favor?
[49:29] >> Aye. >> MAYOR BOGEN: We will do a
[49:37] ribbon cutting and that will be the Andrew Drew Meyers courtroom. Congratulations.
[49:44] [APPLAUSE] Now you can tell RenC)e what we are going to be doing.
[49:57] [LAUGHTER] We are going to go also jump right now into item number 77
[50:05] Lamar Fisher do you want to take that away real quickly?
[50:08] >> COMMISSIONER FISHER: Thank you so much. Our chief judge --
[50:18] >> MAYOR BOGEN: I'm sorry. Is that a public hearing? I'm sorry I am going to open a
[50:32] public hearing and we are going to go to item number 77. Public hearing is open item 77
[50:34] Commissioner Fisher take it away.
[50:39] >> COMMISSIONER FISHER: I am going to read the record first?
[50:41] >> The public item on 77 is now open. It is a motion to adopt resolution renaming
[50:43] courtroom at the Broward County judicial complex judge Susan F green Hawk courtroom. One
[50:51] member of the public has signed up to seek -- speak on the item.
[50:56] >> MAYOR BOGEN: Chief Judge is not here. The chief judge is a trial and could not make it.
[51:04] >> COMMISSIONER FISHER: Chief judge brought to our attention the incredible accomplishments
[51:13] of what she meant to the family division over the past 20+ years at our court system.
[51:20] After retirement she never stepped away from service. Time and again she returned to
[51:24] help when needed generously sharing her health and experience in the division she
[51:34] cared so deeply about. So many judges and attorneys said she was a trusted mentor, a
[51:37] colleague and a friend. She meant toward every judge who had presided in the family
[51:42] division for the past 20+ years beginning with the former chief judge Jack tutor. And of
[51:45] course our current chief judge herself continued up until two weeks ago. Her strong fearless
[51:53] and pragmatic to her approach is candid with colleagues, litigants and of course
[52:00] attorneys. And it was just fitting that when the chief judge asked the mayor to name
[52:07] courtroom 11174, I felt it was necessary to bring it here and make it happened. I know it has
[52:14] altered the process as far as the certification so we do not need to waive anything. With
[52:22] further ado I would like to move the item.
[52:24] >> MAYOR BOGEN: As a motion in a second the item number 77.
[52:28] >> SENATOR GELLER: I think this courtroom naming shows that the new process actually is working
[52:34] the way it is designed for naming courtrooms where the chief judge makes
[52:42] recommendations that we seek input. This is a perfect example of the process our new
[52:51] process is actually working. I --
[53:00] >> MAYOR BOGEN: Have a motion in the second. Any opposed? Show it passing 8/0. I'm going
[53:03] to go to the public hearing item number 88?
[53:19] >> Public hearing item number 88 is now open. Item 80 and is a motion to approve or approve
[53:22] the modifications to County planning councils land use plan formal interpretation related
[53:30] 1-01 S. Ocean doctor city of Hollywood. One member of the public has signed up to speed
[53:33] on the item. >> I am going to make a motion
[53:34] two for -- a motion to deferred us. It wasn't notice properly and it is all supplemental as
[53:47] opposed to the regular agenda. So we need to do that. In addition there's a lot of
[53:52] litigation going on on this and it needs to be a few things need to be taken care of before
[54:00] we go into that. The only thing I do want to say is there was an environmental I asked at
[54:04] the last meeting for an environmental review to look at. I want people to know it
[54:16] was a cursory review. It was not the kind of full review that will be required if they
[54:23] were going through this entire process. Some people wondered why it was so short and only
[54:25] looking at a few things. With that I would like to make a motion to defer this area and I
[54:29] am not doing a planned date on this.
[54:38] >> MAYOR BOGEN: I have a motion and a second to defer item number 88. All in favor?
[54:41] >> Aye. >> MAYOR BOGEN: Show that
[54:45] passing 8/0. Thursday morning memo? Take that away please?
[54:48] >> Broward County commission. The follower are considered for your consideration. One Ã
[55:06] 67-56 and 62. Public hearing items are 68 Ã78+88. Regular items are 79 Ã90. Request a
[55:09] final -- following changes to the agenda. Withdrawal 1F item 59, item 82 and 84 are
[55:26] withdrawn. Other modifications item 11 signature pages have been received. Item 12 boards
[55:28] consideration of the item is based upon the item. As amended including amended
[55:30] motions a Ãthe additional material submitted by the governmental affairs. Item 13
[55:50] the boards consideration is based upon the item as amended by additional material 13 a
[55:52] submitted by the intergovernmental affairs and grant section. Items 33, 35
[55:55] and 36 boards consideration to each item is based on the items as modified by the additional
[55:57] material submitted. >> MAYOR BOGEN: Did you say
[55:59] item 33 or 34? >> Item 34, 35 and 36. The
[56:00] boards consideration of each item is based on the item as modified by the additional
[56:03] material submitted by the consumer protection division replacing Exhibit 1 to reflect
[56:21] the correct public hearing date of September 10, 2026. Item 42 the boards consideration is
[56:24] based on the item as modified by additional material 40 2A submitted by the consumer
[56:27] protection division. Item 44 the boards consideration is based on the item supplemental
[56:29] by additional material 40 -- 44 44 letter a substitute motion submitted by County
[56:35] administration. Item fortified the board consideration based on the item with amendment
[56:37] including additional motion B. Item 6 is the -- [INDISCERNIBLE]. The board
[56:49] consideration of these items are based upon the item with the correction shown on the
[56:52] attached page attachment a of errors. Move the consent item 90 be moved to consent. Items
[56:59] 56 and 62 be moved to regular. Times served time served for 11:00 a.m. with item 85 B.
[57:05] Additional material items 1B appointments items 12 1B appointments items 12 letter a
[57:14] memo to the board submitted by governmental affairs item 13 item 13 letter a memo to the
[57:19] board submitted by governmental affairs and grant section. Item 34 Ã36 letter a letter a
[57:26] Exhibit 1 submitted by water wastewater division. Proposed amended submitted by
[57:35] Commissioner Rogers. Proposed amendment submitted by consumer protection division. I'm 44
[57:43] letter a public work environment and services department. 44 environment and
[57:48] services department. 44 B by administration and 45 by administration and 45 letter a
[57:53] by you -- Commissioner Udine. [INDISCERNIBLE]. Item 82 Item 82 letter a submitted by
[58:13] Senator Rich. 85 Senator Rich. 85 letter a submitted by Commissioner Fisher.
[58:20] >> MAYOR BOGEN: Thank you. Counselor, we can go around. Commissioner Rogers do you want
[58:31] to pull anything? No? >> 43 and 66.
[58:40] >> MAYOR BOGEN: 43 and 66 okay?
[58:42] >> 45 and 63. >> MAYOR BOGEN: 45 and 63.
[58:48] >> None. >> COMMISSIONER DAVIS: 67 there
[58:55] is a public speaker? There is a public speaker. It make it automatically pulled. If not I
[59:08] want to pull it. >> MAYOR BOGEN: Okay. Any
[59:21] pools from the County administration?
[59:25] >> Item 45 and 67 from the public.
[59:30] >> MAYOR BOGEN: 45 and 67 okay. Anything else? Going once? Counselor would you frame that
[59:40] motion for us? >> MR. MEYERS: So the consent
[59:41] agenda today consists of items one Ã67. Minus the following items. Item 1F was withdrawn.
[59:52] Item 6 for an extension, item 44 is pulled, item 45 is pulled, item 56 was moved to
[1:00:14] regular. Item 59 was withdrawn. Item 62 was moved to regular. Item 63 was
[1:00:16] pulled. Item 66 was pulled. Item 67 was pulled. And added to the consent agenda is item
[1:00:19] 9A. -- 90. I'm sorry I think I circled the wrong one. I apologize. 44 was pulled, 43
[1:00:28] remains on consent. Let me try one more time. [LAUGHTER]
[1:00:53] >> MAYOR BOGEN: Hold on one second. Senator Rich needs to put one thing.
[1:00:58] >> SENATOR RICH: I need to pull item 6 for an extension.
[1:01:07] >> MAYOR BOGEN: You are pulling number 24? Okay.
[1:01:13] >> MR. MEYERS: May I ask did anybody pull number 44? The consent agenda Annika and I
[1:01:22] will be on the same page here is one ÃAnnika and I will be on the same page here is one Ã
[1:01:24] 67 minus 1F, six, 44, 43, 45, 56, 59, 62, 63, 66, and 67. Nobody else pulled any other
[1:01:40] items. And added to the consent agenda is item 90.
[1:01:53] >> I move approval of the consent agenda by the county attorney.
[1:01:57] >> MAYOR BOGEN: I have a motion and a second? All in favor?
[1:02:05] >> Aye. >> MAYOR BOGEN: Any opposed?
[1:02:06] Show that passing 8/0. Before 24 was it one?
[1:02:12] >> MR. MEYERS: It is sick -- 64 Senator Rich. -- It is six -- It is six four senator Rich.
[1:02:28] >> MAYOR BOGEN: We will start with Senator Rich.
[1:02:41] >> Item 6 has two motions. A motion to adopt resolution appropriation disbursement of
[1:02:44] fiscal year 2026 Ã2027 fund specifies service providers for the provision of support
[1:02:46] services in Broward County area motion B for conflict of Broward County advisory board.
[1:02:58] Contractual relationship with an energy receiving funds for the performance of services
[1:03:00] under this agenda item. One member of the -- excuse me no members are signed up to speed
[1:03:03] on the item. >> MAYOR BOGEN: Back to the
[1:03:04] dais. Any comments? >> SENATOR RICH: I served on
[1:03:11] the board of kids in distress which would be financially impacted if item 6 is approved.
[1:03:17] I did not receive compensation for serving on this board and I therefore have no actual
[1:03:21] statutory voting conflict. However to avoid the appearance of a conflict I am abstaining
[1:03:28] item 6 and asked that it be reflected in the minutes.
[1:03:31] >> MAYOR BOGEN: I have a motion and a second on number six. All in favor?
[1:03:39] >> Aye. >> MAYOR BOGEN: Any opposed?
[1:03:39] Show that passing 7/0. I'm sorry it would be 7/0 with one exclusion.
[1:03:48] >> Motion approve -- [INDISCERNIBLE]. For qualified vendors list for certified
[1:04:05] public accounting services. One member has signed up to speed on the item. Roger
[1:04:09] Carvey? >> MAYOR BOGEN: If you do not
[1:04:13] mind Commissioner Rogers we will take a public speaker and come to you? Mr. Harvey?
[1:04:19] Please come on up. >> I have been a CPA for over
[1:04:32] 30 years. I own and operate my own CPA firm based in Hollywood. I am here today on
[1:04:37] agenda item 25 15572 ask you to protect local small business equity by approving the CPA
[1:04:45] pool exclusively for CPA firms. Over 10 years ago the commission created the CBE
[1:04:52] qualified vendor list concept to give local firms a fair shot at County work. It is designed
[1:04:58] to be a sheltered market so local CPA firms are not crowded out by larger noncertified
[1:05:07] entities. I do before you today allows two non-CPA -- CPA firms into this pool. It is
[1:05:21] about face of the true historical intent of the program. It directly threatens
[1:05:24] our local market share and revenue to local CPA farmers who have invested decades of
[1:05:29] service and tax dollars back into this community. It shows our local community is ready
[1:05:37] and fully capable. Out of the firms that submitted interest three local CBE firms were
[1:05:51] found qualified and able to perform work. Our county ordinance is clear we only need
[1:05:54] two CBE firms to keep the pool exclusive. We have three. There's absolutely no
[1:05:56] operational deficiency or legal reason to dilute this pool with three or with two non-CBE
[1:06:06] firms. I asked the commissions to stand by that we have done everything right to qualify for
[1:06:11] this program. I urge you to approve item 25 Ã1159 without the two CBE firms and allow the
[1:06:20] three CBE firms to create the pool. If you agree, I asked that the $2.5 million that will
[1:06:37] be allocated to the two non-CBE firms be non-allocated to the three CBE firms. Thank you so
[1:06:40] much. >> MAYOR BOGEN: Thank you.
[1:06:41] Commissioner Rogers? >> COMMISSIONER ROGERS: Thank
[1:06:45] you Mr. Mayor. I need some clarification. I am going to say help me understand if the
[1:06:56] CBE reserve why are we adding non-CBE to the pool? I think your purchasing director can
[1:07:06] explain Monica through you Mr. Mayor?
[1:07:14] >> In the situation according to the code ordinance you are allowed to have whenever you do
[1:07:24] the CBE reserves, it is non-CBE's are allowed to also respond to that. In this case
[1:07:30] that is what we did since it is acute VL when you go out for the work order services then if
[1:07:40] the lowest bid of that surface is within 10% the CBE within 10% would be getting the work.
[1:07:52] >> MS. MONICA CEPERO: I do want to add something else I understand it on the audience
[1:07:58] so long as the non-CBE firms commit and have letters of intent for use of 25% with the
[1:08:06] CBE firm that will be allowable.
[1:08:12] >> COMMISSIONER ROGERS: Her face look like my brain now.
[1:08:18] >> MAYOR BOGEN: We are here to help local businesses. What is stopping that? I do not
[1:08:28] understand how this gentleman can compete?
[1:08:37] >> He would be on the acute VL with the other CBE's and then to -- two CBE's. They would
[1:08:47] put out for a work authorization in each one of the five could bid for that.
[1:08:52] As long as whoever has the lowest price or if it is a CBE and their 10% within the lowest
[1:08:58] price they would be awarded the work.
[1:09:08] >> I think it is important that we ask the county attorney if we can do with a gentleman
[1:09:11] asked. I believe we can't. County attorney can you please comment as to what is legal?
[1:09:18] >> MR. MEYERS: Commissioner Rogers?
[1:09:27] >> COMMISSIONER ROGERS: What he explained to me and what I am here from staff why do we need
[1:09:30] a reserve if we are going to throw anyone in at any given time? I thought CBE was set up
[1:09:36] to attract and encourage local businesses all the time? Go ahead.
[1:09:44] >> MR. MEYERS: Everything that has been says -- said has been accurate. Let me weave it but
[1:09:53] I may fail in doing so. To answer your direct question, we can always waive the
[1:09:57] procurement code and direct award to anyone we want to. There is always a possibility
[1:10:03] to do things. If it is consistent with state law. It could be done but it would
[1:10:15] require waiver of the code and finding that it is in the best interest of the county. That
[1:10:18] can be discussed and it is not something we normally recommend doing. What Kevin said is
[1:10:20] correct. We modified our code a while ago to say non-CBE scan bid in CBE reserve
[1:10:25] opportunities. The strange part here the CBE reserve normally applies when you are
[1:10:32] letting a single contract for one project. Here you're doing what we call it qualified
[1:10:41] vendor list which is a library of vendors. What you're doing is saying CBE's and non-CBE's
[1:10:49] if you are responsive are not responsive and I think they put everybody on the list who are
[1:10:52] responsible then you can be on this library of vendors. The question becomes, how is work
[1:10:58] allocated when specific projects come up under the scope of work. What Kevin said
[1:11:12] make sense. The code doesn't directly say it but there is flexibility under the code to
[1:11:14] apply it. Basically it CBE's and this is normally in the context of an award of a single
[1:11:17] contract. If CBE's are within 10% pricewise of non-CBE's then they would automatically get
[1:11:25] the contract. Here what Kevin is saying the staff can interpret that to say for each
[1:11:39] particular work authorization each scope of work that comes up over multiple years under
[1:11:41] this contract as long as the CBE is within 10% they are going to get that work. I
[1:11:44] think that is a legitimate interpretation although the code doesn't expressly say
[1:11:47] that. Staff have the possibility to do that given the express language of this.
[1:11:52] >> SENATOR GELLER: My understanding based upon what you have said and what Kevin
[1:11:55] said is that although it says it is a CBE reserve, it is not actually a reserve it is a
[1:12:02] preference. If because we do not want a CBE to be bidding 200,000 non-CBE bidding 50,000
[1:12:13] and paying three or four times the price. What the CBE reserve is doing is saying if
[1:12:22] you are a CBE and you are with no more than 10% higher, they will pick you even though you
[1:12:27] are not the lowest bid. It is a preference not a reserve. Is that a fair statement?
[1:12:35] >> MR. MEYERS: Yes. It is not a distinction but made clear that section of the code
[1:12:44] normally applies when you are awarding a single contract for single scope of work. It is
[1:12:47] being interpretative we will apply it for every interpretation or every project
[1:12:52] to give over the years of the contract I think that is a fair interpretation. I think it is
[1:12:59] legitimate for you to approve item 24 and I think staff has the flexibility given the
[1:13:01] language of to apply it as Kevin mentioned.
[1:13:06] >> The 10% is all contracts that are valued at 3 million or below and 3 million or above 5%
[1:13:11] is the threshold. And we're talking about the business opportunity ordinance. So it
[1:13:18] is not the procurement hold that it is waived, it is the ordinance for the CBE reserve.
[1:13:32] >> MR. MEYERS: The board has the ability to waive anything dealing with CBE.
[1:13:38] >> COMMISSIONER DAVIS: The board could wave in this particular price to have the
[1:13:43] non-CBE's mix with the CBE's? >> MR. MEYERS: You do not have
[1:13:52] to waive it. I don't believe here and I don't know if the procurement director is here?
[1:13:59] I know Sandy and Steve is here. I think without waiving it the non-CBE's can compete with
[1:14:05] CBE's. It is just that if a non-CBE and standing there Sandy and Steve is nodding
[1:14:15] their head. If they have to have a 25% CBE goal for their scope of work.
[1:14:26] >> COMMISSIONER DAVIS: My concern it was mentioned three CBE's that they can choose
[1:14:29] from. I do believe there is some flexibility. Nobody is going to bid above $200,000 for
[1:14:40] a job that is $50,000. So that is not normal. My thought process if this was carved out
[1:14:51] for CBE's and you got three not just one, you got three different firms. Between the
[1:14:56] three you should be able to find one to do the work. At a reasonable price. So I would
[1:15:06] like the non-CBE's not be included.
[1:15:20] >> MR. MEYERS: In light of Kevin's clarification, I am concerned with doing that. The
[1:15:23] solicitation I think Sandy was written directly to allow that competition. It might be seen
[1:15:25] as a material modification to the solicitation. What I would recommend and Commissioner
[1:15:28] Davis that is a fair point you are making. What can happen here is the reason our code was
[1:15:38] changed years ago to put in the 5% and 10% bumpers that Kevin mentioned is to avoid exactly
[1:15:40] what you mentioned the $50,000 versus $200,000 amounts. What I would suggest here and it is
[1:15:44] up to the board this could be tabled and we can work it out later. Or the board could
[1:15:55] award these contracts consistent with item number 24 staff applies it is they are
[1:15:58] saying with a 10% preference or the 5% reference then it is consistent without the CBE
[1:16:07] ordinance structure to allow non-CBE's to participate also. If they don't do that then
[1:16:10] these contracts can be terminated for convenience as well. If there is any problem.
[1:16:17] >> COMMISSIONER DAVIS: I do not believe that with support for us to move on to this. I don't
[1:16:23] know of anything we have done or said on this dais would give staff --
[1:16:26] >> COMMISSIONER ROGERS: The other party to change something this important with us only
[1:16:32] seeing it for the first time. This is where I'm having my challenges. Who authorizes and
[1:16:38] who wanted this to happen? Why change now? CBE we needed only two. Now we have three to
[1:16:45] choose from why do we need that extra two that are not CBE?
[1:16:54] >> Doesn't it provide more competition?
[1:17:01] >> COMMISSIONER ROGERS: There is always competition in the process and we have done it
[1:17:04] before when we allow for and encouraging our businesses to do business with Broward County
[1:17:11] creating an opportunity for businesses. We have done this so why change now? It is my
[1:17:16] concern? >> SENATOR GELLER: I want to
[1:17:22] remind members of what we previously did and why we ended up this way. There was a
[1:17:31] lengthy debate on this and the question was we hear on the dais have two possibly
[1:17:37] conflicting issues and goals. Number one is we want to making sure we are promoting local
[1:17:49] Broward County small businesses. The second goal is we also wanted to protect the
[1:17:56] taxpayers of Broward County by giving them the most efficient and least expensive source.
[1:18:07] After lengthy debate on this dais, we reached a compromise and said on the contracts under
[1:18:11] $3 million we will give the local companies a 10% bonus basically. Even with Acme is
[1:18:27] building 1,080,000, we're still going to go with a local company even though that would
[1:18:33] be a percent higher. But if the national company is bidding $500,000 in these three are
[1:18:48] $1,000,001 that is over 50% or over double that it will go to the national company. That is
[1:18:51] what we decided as a balance to our two goals of one protecting local businesses but also
[1:18:57] protecting the taxpayer money because they are the one paying by saying it is only the 10%.
[1:19:08] I think we should stay with that compromise that we spent so much time debating.
[1:19:11] >> MAYOR BOGEN: Can I recognize I can counsel please?
[1:19:15] >> MR. MEYERS: Just to build on that and give Commissioner Rogers comfort. We would not
[1:19:23] change the solicitation. It contains language that says that the UBL can be modified as
[1:19:34] required during the term. So for staff to apply it with the five or 10% differential that
[1:19:36] senator Geller just replied it is not changing the rule. The ruling in the solicitation is
[1:19:45] non-CBE to participate in the reserve is also the current rule under our procurement code
[1:19:48] for the reason Senator Geller mentioned.
[1:19:53] >> COMMISSIONER ROGERS: One final question of Mr. Harvey?
[1:19:57] >> MAYOR BOGEN: Mr. Harvey Wanda, for a second?
[1:20:05] >> COMMISSIONER ROGERS: We were just recently told and I wasn't here but I understand the
[1:20:12] process. >> Thank you for that
[1:20:33] Commissioner Rogers. I am unsatisfied because there is language that says that if a
[1:20:35] CBE is not available, if a CBE is not deemed to be performing correctly that the non-CBE's
[1:20:43] the larger firms can do the work. The goal of 25% is admirable. But at the time it
[1:20:50] appears to me that there is a potential for erosion of work and revenue from us the CBE
[1:20:58] firms. In this case you have three firms actually three known firms around the county
[1:21:04] that do work currently. And so I would like to see it would make me happy as a longtime
[1:21:12] three generation resident of Broward County to have those non-CBE's firm to find a way to
[1:21:16] legally to waive whatever needs to be done so that we can compete in a pool that is more
[1:21:26] competitive and spot on for us. I would ask that you all to reconsider to be flexible to
[1:21:29] allow us who live here who have our children hear who go to Broward County schools here to
[1:21:34] compete among us for an amount up to $1.25 million which is not to me $20 million. I asked
[1:21:43] I hope I pray that you will find a way to let us three CBE's perform this work in the
[1:21:53] circle. Thank you. >> COMMISSIONER ROGERS: It is
[1:21:55] an important tool to create economic opportunities for local businesses and ensuring
[1:22:03] our procurement dollars reached a diverse range of qualified firms. And that is how I close
[1:22:08] Mr. Mayor. Thank you. >> COMMISSIONER DAVIS: Can I
[1:22:12] finish as well? You have the larger firms in the larger firms clearly they can lower
[1:22:17] their prices so much more than the small business firms. But at the same time I'm sure
[1:22:26] there's a flexibility in the procurement code where clearly we are not going to as you say
[1:22:36] give a $50,000 job and charge $200,000. There is that flexibility also. And you
[1:22:42] already have three CBE's that you can choose from. So I can understand if it was one CBE.
[1:22:54] Or even two. And then you need a non-CBE just in case. But you have three. So if we are
[1:22:57] really trying to ensure that small businesses can move up and get into the realm of a
[1:23:07] non-CBE this is a way to help them. So I am not sure why there is flexibility in one way
[1:23:14] and not flexibility when it comes to pricing and who you would choose from the three
[1:23:21] CBE's? So if we are truly looking out for our CBE program in this instance is one of the
[1:23:31] few instances I would say that you got three opportunities to do so. Three people who
[1:23:34] qualify not just one and not even two and you can say just in case let's make sure we have
[1:23:41] a non-CBE. So I believe that this is one of the cases and not every case but we should
[1:23:49] look at it case by case. This is one of those where we can certainly focus on just the
[1:23:55] three CBE's. >> COMMISSIONER UDINE: So this
[1:24:02] is a library that we set up with five responsive participants when the different
[1:24:09] agencies go to choose which participant they want to use for this contract that is not
[1:24:16] another bid, it is a negotiated thing with those specific buyers?
[1:24:24] >> MR. MEYERS: Yes. You ask you put something out and you see who responds with the best
[1:24:31] firms right? >> It is an internal process
[1:24:33] like a code system they will put out the scope of work that is needed for that particular
[1:24:37] work authorization. >> COMMISSIONER UDINE: If a
[1:24:52] non-CBE was given an opportunity to come within 10% of the price doesn't that solve
[1:24:55] the issue? >> That was the intent of how
[1:24:56] we were going to handle this. We would be applying the current code.
[1:25:04] >> MR. MEYERS: The current code in the library the QVL which is a reasonable interpretation.
[1:25:14] >> MAYOR BOGEN: I have a motion do I have a second? I have a motion and a second all in
[1:25:23] favor? >> Aye.
[1:25:24] >> MAYOR BOGEN: Any opposed? We can bring back a discussion item on this.
[1:25:39] >> COMMISSIONER ROGERS: Table it would be my request to the next meeting. I'm sorry. It
[1:25:46] is not clear and I do not want to rush this. I want to make sure it is clear what staff can
[1:25:53] do and cannot do as it relates to the CBE program. I like it. Why are we adding --
[1:25:59] >> MAYOR BOGEN: Commissioner is a motion to table this? I would --
[1:26:12] >> SENATOR GELLER: Can we wait until the next meeting or is this an emergency?
[1:26:17] >> We can wait. It is not an emergency.
[1:26:25] >> SENATOR GELLER: And move that we reconsider so the questions that have been raised
[1:26:28] by Commissioner Davis and Commissioner Rogers can be answered.
[1:26:30] >> MAYOR BOGEN: So we have a second on this motion? All in favor?
[1:26:32] >> Aye. >> MAYOR BOGEN: Any opposed?
[1:26:41] Show that passing 8/0. Now let's do Commissioner Rogers let's do your motion to table.
[1:26:47] Drew, you would have to be here for the next meeting. Do I have a second? I have a motion
[1:26:55] and the second to table this to the next meeting September 10 all in favor? Show that
[1:27:00] passing 9/0. We have an 11:30 a.m. and it is 1127 special set. How many people have
[1:27:12] signed up to speak at 11:30 a.m.? How many people have signed up to speak? Those who
[1:27:20] are here for 11:30 a.m.? 17? We are going to go to lunch while they are speaking? I
[1:27:32] just want to make sure we got that down. Let's open it up. This is number 85.
[1:27:44] >> -- >> VICE-MAYOR McKINZIE: The
[1:27:55] previous voting items, I support it. I know you recorded 8/0.
[1:28:01] >> MAYOR BOGEN: I changed it to 9/0.
[1:28:08] >> VICE-MAYOR McKINZIE: On that one but the other ones you did not. If I say no that is the
[1:28:10] only time I will go on the record against the consensus.
[1:28:15] >> MAYOR BOGEN: You are a yes. The county attorney said we have to say you there -- we
[1:28:30] have to hear you say yes. Let the record reflect we had 9/0 on the past several folks. You
[1:28:41] are in approval with everything we voted on. On 8/0 you voted yes as 9/0?
[1:28:50] >> VICE-MAYOR McKINZIE: Yes except for that will have to come back on the next meeting.
[1:28:55] >> MAYOR BOGEN: Thank you. Number 85 do you want to open it up Commissioner Davis?
[1:29:05] >> To implement changes to the Lauderdale's logo and branding to include a specific reference
[1:29:12] to Broward County while retaining the visit Lauderdale brand and take actions
[1:29:21] necessary to agreement this motion is mentioned there is 17 members of the public that
[1:29:24] signed up to speed on the item. The first one is from travel holes.
[1:29:27] >> MAYOR BOGEN: Before we have public speakers I want to make sure that Commissioner Davis
[1:29:30] want to open it up? >> COMMISSIONER DAVIS: Yes. I
[1:29:37] pulled this item because the reference of Broward County is nowhere on the visit Lauderdale
[1:29:42] logo. The visit Lauderdale logo is just fine. What I am asking for is that below the
[1:29:55] logo it references that Broward County is where visit Lauderdale resides pretty much.
[1:30:04] So of all the other agencies we have in the county to include that airport and that is the
[1:30:17] logo. Below that logo it says Broward County. If you go over to Port Everglades somebody
[1:30:28] said where is that? Below the actual logo it designates our county. And every other agency
[1:30:38] even the planning Council has Broward County. I don't think it is much to ask just to
[1:30:47] ensure that Broward County is seen on the current visit Lauderdale logo. And let me
[1:30:54] continue. This is not about replacing Fort Lauderdale or Lauderdale with Broward County.
[1:31:05] It is about making sure the public understands that the destination being targeted is
[1:31:13] larger than Fort Lauderdale. Visit Lauderdale itself has previously acknowledged the
[1:31:20] issue. When the brand launched visit Lauderdale said Fort Lauderdale is only one of 31
[1:31:28] municipalities in Broward County. When Lauderdale was selected, it was the most
[1:31:39] recognizable name to visitors. And therefore helped to put the entire Broward County area on
[1:31:45] the map. We can use the recognition of Lauderdale to bring people in and use Broward
[1:31:53] County to tell them where they are and how much more there is to the experience. This to me
[1:32:04] is the next evolution of the same strategy. The brand is funded by County tourism
[1:32:18] resources and its mandate is countywide. There is a legitimate policy question
[1:32:23] about whether the counties name should have a more visible presence in the brand
[1:32:26] architecture. In markets 31 municipalities including destinations and experiences
[1:32:38] outside the city of Fort Lauderdale. The current visit Lauderdale materials themselves
[1:32:44] describe the destination as income passing 31 Mr. Balotelli's and everything from
[1:32:51] waterways, Everglades to cultural. Fort Lauderdale remains the strongest name of
[1:33:01] the brand. I'm simply asking the brand also build equity and Broward County the larger
[1:33:08] destinations and governmental entity behind it. If visitors come because they recognize
[1:33:15] Fort Lauderdale that is good. But when they leave knowing Broward County as a destination
[1:33:21] the county has created a brand asset that can benefit every month as the Palestinian
[1:33:32] business not just those physically located in Fort Lauderdale. Broward County
[1:33:37] should not be treated as a competitor to Fort Lauderdale. Broward County, greater Fort
[1:33:52] Lauderdale and other municipalities. The county names give geographic breadth,
[1:33:56] Fort Lauderdale gives you consumer recognition. And visit Lauderdale gives you a
[1:34:02] call to action. The question is, how do we build a stronger and more inclusive destination
[1:34:09] brand that provides the enormous equity in the Lauderdale name while
[1:34:18] increasing recognition of Broward County? I am not asking us to abandon visit
[1:34:23] Lauderdale. I am asking us to leverage the equity we have already built in visit
[1:34:32] Lauderdale to build equity in the name Broward County. Because visit Lauderdale
[1:34:42] represents 31 municipalities and not just one. That is my statement.
[1:34:50] >> MAYOR BOGEN: Okay, before we go to the public speakers, I want you to hear this Steve.
[1:35:07] Commissioner Davis, and I say this with all due respect, I believe anytime you want to do
[1:35:16] something you should have behind you data. Focus groups, marketing research that will
[1:35:23] justify whether we call it visit Lauderdale, visit Broward or whatever you want to do
[1:35:28] there should be data supporting it. I have not seen anything in the backup of data. County
[1:35:37] administrator have you done any research whatsoever to determine whether this would be
[1:35:43] an advantage to our county? Making it a better destination and more recognizable and more
[1:35:51] people remember it or whatever that might be?
[1:35:59] >> MS. MONICA CEPERO: There has been no analysis.
[1:36:01] >> MAYOR BOGEN: I believe the email that talks about the cost in changing, we are talking
[1:36:08] potentially millions of dollars in cost based on our inventory cost. I host a breakfast with
[1:36:16] our business community. So when you want to change something, who is it to
[1:36:23] benefit? Is it Mr. Smith or Ms. Jones down the street? Is it to benefit the people coming
[1:36:35] here for our business community? I believe the action we take regarding this
[1:36:39] marketing this should be the benefits of our business community not for somebody who
[1:36:44] lives on 23rd St. somewhere and it doesn't matter. Our business community that I met
[1:36:52] with that are here and numbers are totally opposed to this. And so --
[1:37:04] >> COMMISSIONER DAVIS: Can I respond to you? We have 31 business -- municipalities. We
[1:37:18] have thousands and thousands of businesses. Maybe the idea is and maybe we could, how about
[1:37:24] talking to the thousands and thousands of business owners not just a select few who are
[1:37:29] mainly based here in Fort Lauderdale? Now in terms of the brand itself, it is the
[1:37:34] same brand. We are not changing the brand except adding Broward County. I don't
[1:37:48] think there see how that will cost millions and millions of dollars. And again that is why
[1:37:51] I would like to see it be looked at. What is the cost to just add Broward County? And
[1:37:57] how could that hurt business? We are Broward County and you're telling me adding
[1:38:06] Broward County is going to have a significant impact on business? I just mentioned to
[1:38:11] you, I don't see how that could happen. It would broaden it. Visit Lauderdale, Broward
[1:38:19] County because now you're actually more inclusive. But if you want to do a study, I
[1:38:24] welcome it. Common sense dictates you already have visit Lauderdale. And adding Broward
[1:38:30] County which is the broader area could not harm but help.
[1:38:37] >> MAYOR BOGEN: Hold on one second. We will go around. You said we talk to thousands
[1:38:55] of business owners, this is not my item. I expect you are County and ministration to come
[1:38:58] back and say we have talked to thousands of business owners. This is why we should be doing
[1:39:00] it. I don't think I should be saying, I think it is incumbent upon the person who wants to
[1:39:03] change it to show why it is an advantage. I have a lot of reasons why Broward like we did
[1:39:08] the Pasadena slow and I think it was a waste. People in California saw Broward County
[1:39:19] flows. Nobody remembers Broward and no one knows Broward and no one know where
[1:39:22] Broward is. We have data on that. So Broward County, go outside Broward and you will
[1:39:29] want to attract tourists, businesses, come to Broward. Where is Broward? But when you
[1:39:36] say visit Lauderdale, at least they have an idea of where that is in South Florida. The most
[1:39:41] important thing I think is data. What is the data showing why we should do this? I think
[1:39:54] it is a great questions of millions of dollars. Why does it cost millions of dollars and
[1:39:57] I think I need to be explained. Stacy or somebody can explain the cost in changing it?
[1:40:00] >> MS. MONICA CEPERO: I did want to note that when visit Lauderdale did begin with the
[1:40:15] branding of visit Lauderdale there was a significant amount of market research done. It is
[1:40:17] just not local businesses but outside of our destination to see what resonated with
[1:40:20] travelers. So that is how we really came to visit Lauderdale Brandt to begin with. There
[1:40:24] was an extensive amount of analysis and market research to get there to begin with. Stacy
[1:40:31] can certainly elaborate on that more.
[1:40:37] >> MAYOR BOGEN: Hold on. Do you guys want to talk now or wait for public speakers? No,
[1:40:42] have somebody else before you. I'm asking Commissioner Rogers also. Do you want to let the
[1:40:47] public speakers go and then we will go? I am going to let the public speakers come up and
[1:40:54] then we will talk. >> SENATOR GELLER: My office
[1:41:08] has been inundated with emails from the business community. I'm pretty sure I've got a good
[1:41:11] idea of where this commission is going to vote. I would love to hear all 17 of my friends
[1:41:13] here. But if there can be a test vote or something up there, I'm pretty sure I know.
[1:41:21] >> MAYOR BOGEN: This is not violating sunshine. Where do you stand on this? Yes or no?
[1:41:29] >> We want to hear from those folks who as well. These folks are against it and this is our
[1:41:40] business community I would love to hear from you. I think it shows the support.
[1:41:46] >> COMMISSIONER ROGERS: I will speak. There is 31 municipalities and I have been
[1:41:49] around for 30 years. I can tell you when there was a Broward alliance, we felt like
[1:41:54] we were a part of Broward County. So when it came alliance alone, I did not feel
[1:42:00] like we were reflected in the numbers.
[1:42:05] >> MAYOR BOGEN: I am looking for a yes
[1:42:06] >> MAYOR BOGEN: I am looking for a yes or no?
[1:42:11] >> COMMISSIONER ROGERS: I am looking for further discussion. We don't have to make a
[1:42:14] decision. This is a motion to director. I do believe we should be directing staff right
[1:42:17] now until we have some more information. Like you requested.
[1:42:23] >> COMMISSIONER FURR: I think the logo need to stay very simple. I am a no.
[1:42:37] >> COMMISSIONER UDINE: I am going to be a no on this. They did the marketing study. I
[1:42:40] remember -- visit Lauderdale is crisp and clean. I think the goal of visit Lauderdale, we
[1:42:56] are up 6% in tourism dollars that are coming to Broward County. Even if we put Broward
[1:42:59] in the name that doesn't do anything for coral spring. The city of Hollywood sent a letter
[1:43:03] that they are in support of visit Lauderdale. These things have to be crisp and clean. I
[1:43:11] think visit Lauderdale logo is the proper logo for the County. I think businesses are
[1:43:16] shortening their logos to get people to do this. I would never vote for this anyway, it
[1:43:29] is a motion to direct County administration to do that. I don't think County
[1:43:32] administration have the expertise, marketing a logo. This is much different in my
[1:43:34] mind. I can give you 10 examples of brands that have changed their logo that have
[1:43:36] significantly backfired. I don't think any nine of us were County admin have anywhere near
[1:43:44] the expertise to discuss this and to vote on this and to try and do what we are doing. I'm
[1:43:51] supportive of keeping visit Lauderdale. I do not want to study it anymore. I know it
[1:43:58] have been studied a million times by the alliance, by port Everglades studied. I think
[1:44:01] Lauderdale should be the County name.
[1:44:04] >> MAYOR BOGEN: We will take that as a no. [APPLAUSE] Please, please. I have been
[1:44:13] informed by counsel, you have the right to speak. You have the right to speak if you want
[1:44:23] to speak. I think you see the sentiment of how we are going to vote and I can call for a
[1:44:28] vote if someone wants to, it is Commissioner Davis if somebody wants to move it, second it and
[1:44:44] then we will call for a vote. >> MR. MEYERS: If anyone wants
[1:44:46] to speak if they can just raise their hand. If they don't raise their hand it will be
[1:44:48] deemed waived. >> MAYOR BOGEN: Please state
[1:44:52] your name? >> I represent a lot of
[1:44:54] people. >> MAYOR BOGEN: I'm going to
[1:44:55] interrupt you. We have ordered from your restaurant. It better be tasteful.
[1:45:03] >> I appreciate it. Thank you Mayor commissioners. I am the chair of the committee for
[1:45:12] visit Lauderdale. I am a member of the TDC. I am the cochair of the Broward Taurus
[1:45:19] and coalition and the chair of the Broward workshop. So I just referenced that because I
[1:45:27] represent a lot of voices in the room here and also across the county. This is not a
[1:45:29] county issue. We market outside of the county. People who don't know who we are or
[1:45:33] where we are. There has been a lot of work and research that has gone into the visit
[1:45:40] Lauderdale brand and the success is undeniable. You can get the data since the change
[1:45:42] it has been a rocketship. The CDB has done extensive research on this. Surveys, marketing
[1:45:50] studies, workshops, focus groups. All the data says that Broward putting Broward County
[1:45:58] name confuses the public and reduces engagement. Again, I am the chair of all of those
[1:46:07] organizations and they represent tourism across the county both West activities
[1:46:09] West everything. All of those committees are unanimously opposed to this. Not one
[1:46:21] committee member said this is a good idea and we should support this. Again, we have a
[1:46:23] brand-new billion dollar convention center with their leadership that finally came to
[1:46:26] light. That convention center is guaranteed by TDC dollars, those dollars are by visit
[1:46:39] Lauderdale. We need to be focused on driving business and stabilizing the convention
[1:46:41] center. That is a game changer for everywhere in the county. While we we change the brand
[1:46:44] now? There's a reason that Pepsi is not on the Gatorade logo. There is no confusion on
[1:46:54] what Gatorade is. I think we should take the same approach and keep the logo clean and
[1:46:56] keep going in the direction we are going. I strongly urge you not to make this change. Thank
[1:46:59] you. >> MAYOR BOGEN: Does anybody
[1:47:00] else want to speak? >> COMMISSIONER UDINE: I would
[1:47:06] like to hear from hand Barry. >> MAYOR BOGEN: Can you please
[1:47:10] state your name? >> Finally multiple boards and
[1:47:18] vice chair of the advisory committee. One thing that is critically important this is a
[1:47:23] destination marketing organization folks. I think you all know what that means.
[1:47:26] There is no DMO across the country that we are aware of and certainly no major markets
[1:47:30] that include the name of the county. It is visit Orlando not orange county tightend to
[1:47:41] the bottom. I can say the same thing over and over again. Because that is the respected
[1:47:49] practice of bringing people into a destination. And that is why we are here. Everything
[1:47:51] else Tim said I echo. By the way who in this room is not from Fort Lauderdale? We have
[1:47:56] the general manager of the diplomat, general manager of Margaritaville. We have major
[1:48:00] attractions like Sawgrass Mills. The people on the advisory committee and
[1:48:05] different boards are the experts. In this room are literally hundreds and hundreds
[1:48:17] and hundreds of years worth of expertise in tourism and not one of them wants the name
[1:48:20] change. Thank you very much for the consideration and for everything you have discussed
[1:48:23] area I was there at the beginning and I have been on a map for 29 years. During that
[1:48:32] timeframe we had a major outage and I believe it was due major research and focus groups
[1:48:41] internationally, domestically. Lauderdale was number one in Broward County was at the very
[1:48:48] bottom of the list. That was a part of the research folks. It wasn't us, it was people who
[1:48:53] made a decision of where they are going to bring the tour operators, guests and people
[1:48:58] they are recommending to travel. This is a billion-dollar industry, please
[1:49:03] do not mess with it. Thank you for your consideration.
[1:49:13] >> MAYOR BOGEN: Everybody has to get their say. Come on in.
[1:49:19] >> Thank you Mr. Mayor and members of the County commission.
[1:49:23] >> MAYOR BOGEN: Just state your name.
[1:49:24] >> My name is George and although I have been a resident of Fort Lauderdale the Broward
[1:49:29] County for most of 40 years, I do not speak as a resident perspective. I am speaking as
[1:49:37] the former president and CEO of the states largest private not-for-profit research
[1:49:46] university and Broward County largest private employer of over 7000 people that live
[1:49:52] throughout this county. 23,000 students in over 200,000 loans come from nova Southeastern
[1:50:03] University all over the globe. When the founding fathers created nova University to
[1:50:10] study right there as a storefront in 1964. Those founding fathers were not just
[1:50:18] from Fort Lauderdale. They were from all over Broward County and Hollywood. As a
[1:50:24] matter fact the major contributors and philanthropist came from Western Broward
[1:50:31] County, from Hamilton, doctor Charles Foreman and from Hollywood. Mother is Bill or
[1:50:43] mailman, at Novus campus over in the town of Davie, it is a mailman Hollywood building.
[1:50:49] But those founding fathers knew one thing. They started out wanting to be the MIT of the
[1:50:59] South. They wanted only to attract students from all over the world to be graduate
[1:51:04] students. And to this day nova Southeastern University is 80% graduate professional students
[1:51:13] and contrary to Miami only 20% undergrads. We would have never attracted the founding
[1:51:22] fathers said students to come to the count of Davie or to Broward County. The same thing
[1:51:29] you hear from Tim about destination brand and it being clean and crisp, people who are
[1:51:42] searching for where they want to go, they lean towards a place brand. A place brand.
[1:51:53] Hamilton Foreman and mailman and Bill all from Hollywood or the town of Davie knew they had
[1:52:05] to have the place brand of Fort Lauderdale. We would have never attracted all of the top
[1:52:14] researchers or faculty members or students with just the town of Davie. I encourage you
[1:52:20] don't compromise the brand or dilute it.
[1:52:27] >> MAYOR BOGEN: Can I ask County administrator, can I asked Stacy why it would cost,
[1:52:40] let's pretend it was the greatest idea. Stacy, do you have that? I know how much you
[1:52:52] wanted to speak today, Stacy. [LAUGHTER]
[1:52:56] >> Thank you. >> MAYOR BOGEN: Why would it
[1:53:01] cost more money? >> That is a complicated
[1:53:06] question. I want to try to make it as simple as possible and as quick as possible.
[1:53:14] There are different tiers to rebranding. There are simple tears as simple as putting a
[1:53:18] word on a business card that would cost a few thousand dollars to doing full brand
[1:53:26] launch that includes video, media buys production companies, talent, wardrobe
[1:53:39] which can cost a couple million dollars. When we rebranded in 2021, it cost us $2 million.
[1:53:42] And when we refresh the brand earlier this year, it cost us another $2 million. It depends
[1:53:46] on how much you want to do. You won't know what your tear is unless you do the research
[1:53:53] to determine what moves the needle. Because I think we can probably all with certainty
[1:54:00] suggests that sticking a couple of words on a business card does not do anything. How much
[1:54:04] more do you have to do in order to move the needle? You won't really know that until you do
[1:54:15] the research. What you do know is that if you don't do a full brand launch on every brand
[1:54:18] nobody will see it. How much will it cost for people around the world to see your
[1:54:23] rebranded? It cost us $2 million each time we do it.
[1:54:25] >> MAYOR BOGEN: Thank you. >> COMMISSIONER DAVIS: I am
[1:54:38] just want to say two things and then clearly because it seems folks have changed their mind.
[1:54:48] This was brought to us before but not as an agenda item. However, I will destroy the
[1:54:53] items since I do not have consensus here. Firstly that was mentioned about other
[1:54:59] markets Miami-Dade, they have their own Miami and the beaches. They are not a part
[1:55:06] of Miami-Dade County government. They are a separate entity. They have
[1:55:11] their own board. And many of the other agencies do the same thing. Around Florida, they
[1:55:23] are not tied to a governmental entity. And so the name of that entity is not on there.
[1:55:27] However, in addition to that when I'm sure when this was looked at visit Lauderdale,
[1:55:38] Broward County was not one of the options. Was that studied? Was it just Broward County,
[1:55:45] visit Lauderdale, Fort Lauderdale? Was the combination study? Probably
[1:55:52] not. Again because I am seeing my colleagues saying no to the idea even though the cost to me
[1:56:03] that was mentioned would not be prohibitive with just adding that. I will at this time
[1:56:13] withdraw the item because it is not getting any traction but stick by what my points were.
[1:56:19] And maybe at some later time when I do have consensus, I will bring it up again. Thank
[1:56:26] you. >> MAYOR BOGEN: Counsel if she
[1:56:32] is withdrawing the item do we need a motion?
[1:56:33] >> MR. MEYERS: No, I think it is fine.
[1:56:36] >> MAYOR BOGEN: Thank you for coming in and speaking. It is 11:56 AM. I want to address
[1:56:51] one thing before we grab food. Food is in the kitchen for all of us so we can do a working
[1:56:54] lunch. >> COMMISSIONER DAVIS: We do
[1:56:57] have speakers from 67. If you don't mind?
[1:57:00] >> MAYOR BOGEN: No I don't mind. I want to touch on Commissioner Davis one thing
[1:57:04] you just said. You said this was brought up before. When was this brought up before?
[1:57:11] >> COMMISSIONER DAVIS: And non-agenda.
[1:57:13] >> MAYOR BOGEN: Okay. I think we need a policy. Hold on. I want to get a policy that
[1:57:26] agenda is -- we are half-asleep and it has been a long day. I don't think non-agenda should
[1:57:35] be used at all. I want to bring up something and if you don't object, I am talking
[1:57:39] about something. They must agree to it. I just want to make sure counsel you tell me
[1:57:52] whether we need a vote on this or policy? Anything brought up in the agenda when we are not
[1:57:54] voting has no consequence of any policy or any direction unless we all agree. The
[1:58:02] majority agrees? >> MR. MEYERS: The only
[1:58:03] exception would be for basically to direct for an ordinance or administrative
[1:58:15] code resolution. Because there's no final action that is being taken so you can raise
[1:58:18] that under your current rules non-agenda. If there are not sips -- six objections you're
[1:58:22] not taking any action on non-agenda.
[1:58:29] >> MAYOR BOGEN: Explained that again? If I bring up something that has to do with changing
[1:58:32] administrative code or an ordinance I can do that without putting anything on the agenda
[1:58:36] and I don't have to have it written anywhere and I can talk about how I want to change an
[1:58:41] ordinance and direct Monica to come forward and another meeting or direct your office
[1:58:48] to come forward and another meeting with something. Even though my commissioners haven't
[1:58:53] voted on it? >> MR. MEYERS: Technically, if
[1:58:55] it was a very long day you only had six people on the dais and you said, I direct the county
[1:59:01] attorney's office, would like to see the county attorney's office doing ordinance on this.
[1:59:12] There won't be six objectors because you are in favor and there are only six total
[1:59:14] people. We would draft it. But again that comes back before the board twice. Set
[1:59:16] for public hearing and then public hearing.
[1:59:20] >> MAYOR BOGEN: So matter what happened on non-agenda has to come before the board before
[1:59:23] admin or anybody takes action? >> MR. MEYERS: We can prepare
[1:59:26] something. We can't implement something, Mayor. We can't and Monica can't implement
[1:59:41] something. This item 85 instead of it being this way which was proper, it was just
[1:59:43] brought up non-agenda and nobody said anything opposed to it Monica would not have
[1:59:48] direction or authority to do it. She can draft a policy to bring back to you for your
[1:59:56] consideration. >> SENATOR GELLER: Do we need a
[2:00:01] motion? If so I can second it.
[2:00:04] >> MR. MEYERS: It is both. You act by voting, we take direction by voting except when
[2:00:13] we are preparing something from nonfinal action by us that you will subsequently --
[2:00:20] >> MAYOR BOGEN: The only thing in non-agenda is directing you to come back to the board or
[2:00:24] Monica can come back to the board for us to vote on it?
[2:00:26] >> MR. MEYERS: Yeah. Sometimes you would have non-agenda and we need to send a letter of
[2:00:34] support to somebody and things of that nature will generally let it go. But for his staff
[2:00:40] to implement something -- >> MAYOR BOGEN: If I forget to
[2:00:43] put something on, I can put it there bring it up in that agenda and I would really like
[2:00:47] you to put together something for the next meeting even though there's nothing on the
[2:00:50] agenda that is legal? >> MR. MEYERS: Under your
[2:00:54] current rules, yes. >> MAYOR BOGEN: We have number
[2:01:06] 67? Let's do number 67 because we have people waiting and we are going to bring food back to
[2:01:09] the dais to continue this meeting.
[2:01:11] >> Motion to adopt resolution United States Congress to take immediate legislations action
[2:01:14] from awful permanent resident status. If otherwise eligible the United States citizenship
[2:01:22] affected by the termination of temporary protective static urging executive branch of the
[2:01:30] United States and in congressional action to redesignate provide other
[2:01:33] lawful temporary protection from removal recognizing the humanitarian economic workforce
[2:01:41] and determination on Broward County. Three members of the public has signed up to speed
[2:01:44] on the item. The first is Michael followed by Michelle Pierre.
[2:01:49] >> Can I make a statement first? Haitian immigration resolution the resolution
[2:01:57] response to the termination of Haiti's temporary protected status resulting removal loss
[2:02:02] of employment authorization, family separation, and workforce destruction. The
[2:02:09] resolution requests congressional legislation providing eligible Haitian
[2:02:15] nationals protection from removal and an opportunity to apply for lawful permanent
[2:02:20] resident status. An opportunity to pursue United States citizenship only after
[2:02:28] satisfaction of the applicable statutory naturalization requirements and temporary
[2:02:35] executive protection pending congressional action. This is the basis of the resolution
[2:02:44] which you can read yourselves. One of the things I wanted to ensure is that at a minimum,
[2:02:52] the resolution is formally indicating the board's policy position to Congress, the
[2:03:05] president, DHS, US CIS, ice and other appropriate federal officials. Thank you.
[2:03:16] >> MAYOR BOGEN: I assume your opposing this. Why don't you take it away?
[2:03:28] >> Mayor, commissioners good morning. Michael Raynor chair of the human rights board. We
[2:03:32] are very pleased to see this resolution on here. Haitians in South Florida are not
[2:03:39] statistics. They are our neighbors, our coworkers, our caregivers, our small business
[2:03:46] owners, our parents, our friends, their safety and dignity matter to our entire
[2:03:56] community. We just had this room full of our tourism industry here in Florida and I
[2:03:58] can only imagine how many Haitians that are in TPS just got fired within the last two
[2:04:02] weeks when a loss that protective status. I know that a friend of mine who owns a
[2:04:20] bakery in Miramar, I called her to see how things were going. She started to cry on the
[2:04:23] phone. Because she was writing her last paycheck to several of her employees and she is
[2:04:26] beginning to expand another location of her Haitian bakery. She was touring Ã-- torn. I
[2:04:29] believe one of the proper in addition to this items passage would probably be an additional
[2:04:37] motion to direct to have this added to the federal legislative packet which is
[2:04:47] standard of resolutions of the sort. Human rights board, we did discuss this and submitted
[2:04:56] the memorandum which is attached and it references the August 10 article which
[2:05:02] unfortunately was not attached. That is the Sun Sentinel article that you can see. We
[2:05:07] are entering such a horrible time in this nation. I am first generation on my father's
[2:05:18] side. My father came from Poland in the 40s. But there's something much different when
[2:05:23] you are white and an immigrant. I have to say that as somebody who has the blessing to be here
[2:05:28] and to be born as a citizen. It tears me up when I see on Facebook videos that are being
[2:05:35] posted that churches in South Florida that are being rated right now for Haitians. You
[2:05:40] see Haitians being taken off of their bicycles in front of people steps when you look on
[2:05:47] social media. And how people are trying to make sure the billing longings that are left
[2:05:57] behind by ice on the sidewalk and get back to those families. The inhumane time we are in
[2:06:00] where Broward animal care is far more humane and how it picks up animals off the street
[2:06:02] to make sure that they are cared for. We are at a time where government lacks any
[2:06:19] Christian principles in a nation that is supposedly Christian. I don't know this
[2:06:23] country anymore. And many of us struggle. I just want to say thank you, I know you're
[2:06:32] going to support this and I asked there be another motion to add it to the legislative
[2:06:36] packet. If I may Mayor, if I can thank Drew for his years of answering the phone when I call
[2:06:44] you at 7:00 in the morning for you to help me through something. And to help me in
[2:07:00] my advocacy and also as chair of the counties human rights board to ensure that we always
[2:07:03] maintain our moral compass and help us through the legal issues. I just want to thank
[2:07:06] you for that time that you have been here. Thank you. >> MAYOR BOGEN: He wanted to
[2:07:08] tell you how upset he was for calling at 7:00 in the morning. [LAUGHTER]
[2:07:20] A good response. Who is next? >> The next member signed up
[2:07:22] to speak is Michelle Pierre followed by Helen O'Brien.
[2:07:25] >> Hello everybody. Michelle had to go to work. My name is Helen O'Brien I lead SEI you
[2:07:36] the union of airport workers, janitors and security officers. I wanted thank Commissioner
[2:07:41] Davis for introducing today's resolution. For years Haitian immigrations have been the
[2:07:54] fabric of Florida. They help our airports run, clean officers and do essential jobs.
[2:07:57] At the Fort Lauderdale airport around 60 of our members had TPS and lost their jobs after
[2:07:59] more than a decade. They were terminal cleaners who kept the airport spotless, wheelchair
[2:08:08] agents to help seniors get their flights and cabin cleaners who sanitize planes
[2:08:12] for passengers. There were also security officers guarding and protecting County
[2:08:20] buildings, janitors and landscapers at nova Southeastern University. I was
[2:08:24] just 32 members there were thousands of other TPS holders in healthcare and other
[2:08:33] industries. One of our members was a janitor who clean the airport terminal for almost 20
[2:08:41] years. He had never been late and rarely missed work. He took pride in keeping those
[2:08:45] floors spotless. He is terrified to return to Haiti. His son was a police officer
[2:08:55] there and watched his own partner be killed. Gangs has taken over his home in Haiti
[2:08:57] and he has nowhere to go back to. He also has no income. Another is a mother who is
[2:09:04] 15-year-old son is a U.S. citizen. She lost her job and can't afford to feed her child.
[2:09:06] She now has to choose whether she lives here in the shadows with her child or goal back to
[2:09:09] Haiti without him. These are people who have worked, pays taxes raise families and
[2:09:18] contributed to borrow candy for years and should not be treated as disposable. I know we all
[2:09:20] agree there's nothing we can do other than lift our voices and count on this county doing
[2:09:26] that. Thank you so much. I appreciate your help.
[2:09:31] >> MAYOR BOGEN: Now that the speakers are done, do you want to move it?
[2:09:41] >> SENATOR GELLER: I will vote for this because I feel strongly on the topic. But in
[2:09:44] general, I keep saying that we should not really be taking positions on state and federal.
[2:09:48] Whenever we send a resolution in support of something to the state, it just means that they
[2:09:52] are more opposed because they did not like Broward. We really should be taking
[2:09:59] positions on federal and state issues. I will vote for this because I feel strongly on the
[2:10:04] topic. I want to caution us on that.
[2:10:13] >> What goes around comes around and we know what that means. I'm here to support
[2:10:15] this resolution because even being in Tallahassee when we knew that the legislatures
[2:10:22] cannot do anything about federal issues, we sent resolution in support. We are
[2:10:29] one of six or seven counties, we need to do Broward County so I am in support.
[2:10:36] >> MAYOR BOGEN: Number 67 does someone want to move it? Do I have a second? I have a motion
[2:10:41] on 67 moved and second all in favor? Any opposed? Show passing 9/0. We are going to
[2:10:51] do something a little different. We have food here instead of room for 30 let's
[2:10:55] bring our food quickly back here so we can can continue the meeting. Within a few minutes.
[2:10:58] We have a long day and folks we will be right back probably within 10 minutes. For most of
[2:11:11] us five minutes. okay, can ever seat? We are going to start. Monica, we would like you to
[2:12:20] grab a seat. This is recording. Lamar, what number is yours? Okay, we're going to
[2:12:32] get real quickly to number 83. With Commissioner Fisher taking it away.
[2:12:40] >> The process necessary for control of Broward County no member of the public has signed
[2:12:51] up to speed on the item. >> COMMISSIONER FISHER: As
[2:12:57] everyone knows back in 2003 Broward County did grant to the Broward Sheriff's office
[2:13:04] control of the fire rescue through an interlocal agreement with automatic renewals every
[2:13:12] five years. Since our board's action we took in April the administration have been
[2:13:15] diligently working on this particular matter it sells. I do want to thank Mr. Reyes for
[2:13:22] his dedication. Michael, I want to thank you for all you have been doing. Dealing with
[2:13:36] the stakeholders, I know that you have been in charge and talking to the IAF FF 4321
[2:13:41] league of cities, the Broward County city managers Association and the fire Chiefs
[2:13:50] Association. So I want to thank you for getting the ball rolling and I think you have
[2:13:54] met with all seven cities that Broward Sheriff's contract with fire. But this particular item
[2:14:02] here today concerns the agreement between Broward County and the Broward
[2:14:05] Sheriff's office for the delivery of fire rescue services. Under that agreement
[2:14:17] articles 11 and 12 the current five-year term expires on September 30for the delivery of
[2:14:20] fire rescue services. Under that agreement articles 11 and 12 the current five-year term
[2:14:23] expires on September 30, 2028. The next five-year term would automatically renew beginning
[2:14:25] October October 1, 2028. But unless either party provides at least one years written notice
[2:14:38] for the intent not to renew. So the agreement does offer other cancellation
[2:14:40] opportunities but I feel this particular time is now the right time to make a decision
[2:14:43] to discuss the agreement effective September 30, 2020. The timeline for this would
[2:14:51] ensure a smooth transition for this critical service. We all know public safety is our
[2:14:57] number one focus as elected officials. So the purpose of today's discussion is not to
[2:15:08] make a final decision as I do plan to bring an item back before us at our at our
[2:15:13] September 22 board meeting so there is ample time for all parties and the public to study
[2:15:16] the issue. The process can be relatively smooth transition. It is moving all 907 employees
[2:15:26] under Broward County. We are ready -- already on the equipment. The contracts that
[2:15:41] Michael has been working with the municipalities on that. The nine communications will be
[2:15:44] smooth and seamless etc. Administrative will position themselves and human resources
[2:15:48] department obviously will need inventory training and locations will pursue and
[2:15:55] purchase minimal equipment and take over all the air rescue helicopters at the Pompano
[2:16:05] Beach Airpark. Here's what the important part of it is in my opinion. Broward County now
[2:16:07] has the opportunity to control its own fire department and its cost. Commissioners who sit on
[2:16:13] this dais, Commissioner Davis, Commissioner Rogers, Commissioner Furr and
[2:16:27] Commissioner Udine. These individuals have served at the local and city level as myself.
[2:16:33] You understand the importance of having your own fire department. The advantages
[2:16:36] including the commitment to all of our communities. So Mayor, I welcome discussion here today
[2:16:44] and comments for my colleagues and of course at the conclusion of discussion, I'm going to ask
[2:16:52] that you recognize me for a specific motion or directions for the 22nd meeting. I
[2:16:57] appreciate you, thank you. >> COMMISSIONER ROGERS: Can we
[2:17:03] give an opportunity to someone from the public who had been here from this morning to speak
[2:17:09] first? >> MAYOR BOGEN: Absolutely.
[2:17:15] >> COMMISSIONER ROGERS: Would anyone like to speak from the public?
[2:17:18] >> MAYOR BOGEN: Please come on down. If you don't mind just please state your name? Hold
[2:17:32] on. Say it again. >> My name is Denise Howard
[2:17:38] and I'm the acting assistant city manager for the city of Lauderdale Lakes. Thank you
[2:17:44] for the opportunity and good afternoon Mr. Mayor and commissioners. I just want to
[2:17:54] briefly express our administration support for moving this discussion forward
[2:17:57] and explain the process necessary to bring Broward County for -- fire rescue under
[2:18:08] the control of Broward County. For Lauderdale Lakes this is particularly important because
[2:18:11] the cost of our current fire rescue contract has increased significantly and continue to
[2:18:14] place increasing pressures on our financial resources. As we looking forward to the
[2:18:19] potential end there impact of Mrs. Pelletier's must face we believe it is important to
[2:18:31] explore opportunities that can help ensure the long-term sustainability of essential
[2:18:35] public safety services. From the city administration's perspective having Broward
[2:18:38] County assume operational control is an option that deserves serious consideration.
[2:18:42] If this can provide greater efficiencies, more predictable cost and long-term financial
[2:18:49] sustainability while continuing to provide quality fire rescue services to our residents, we
[2:18:56] are certainly supported of exploring the opportunity. We appreciate the County
[2:19:02] commission's initiating this discussion considering the impact these increasing costs
[2:19:09] are having on the municipalities such as Lauderdale Lakes. Thank you.
[2:19:14] >> COMMISSIONER ROGERS: I will be reaching out to the cities represent to hear from them. I
[2:19:17] am here to participate in this discussion. I am glad it is a discussion and we want to make
[2:19:23] sure everybody knows that it is a discussion we are having this afternoon. Thank you very
[2:19:30] much. >> MAYOR BOGEN: Anybody on this
[2:19:32] side? >> SENATOR GELLER: I am
[2:19:38] certainly underside it -- undecided. I am looking forward to the motion and
[2:19:49] discussion. >> COMMISSIONER FURR: --
[2:19:59] >> MAYOR BOGEN: Vice Mayor can you mute your phone?
[2:20:04] >> VICE-MAYOR McKINZIE: I was getting ready to speak.
[2:20:06] >> MAYOR BOGEN: I will call on you in one second. Commissioner Furr is done so we
[2:20:16] call on you now Vice Mayor McKinzie. > VICE-MAYOR McKINZIE: I
[2:20:18] also served locally. I do believe firmly in and what Commissioner Fisher stated
[2:20:24] about local relationship with the department. I look forward to the item coming back to move
[2:20:27] forward. >> SENATOR RICH: I am
[2:20:35] interested to hear the discussion. I hear from many of the municipalities that this
[2:20:43] is the direction they would like to go. We should investigate it.
[2:20:51] >> COMMISSIONER UDINE: I look forward to the conversation discussion. I think right now
[2:20:54] we are seeing affordability is the number one issue right now with all of our constituents.
[2:20:58] If there's a way that we can provide the same or better level of public service at a
[2:21:07] more affordable rate, I think we should look at that with everyone of our departments. I
[2:21:14] thank Commissioner Fisher for bringing this up and I would support looking at it.
[2:21:19] >> COMMISSIONER DAVIS: Thank you. I would certainly like some more data I'm sure in the
[2:21:25] discussion we will get data historically why was given over to be in the first place since
[2:21:32] we had previously. And other County agencies across the state and may be across the
[2:21:42] country want their fire departments under their sheriff's office or not. And
[2:21:57] also if there's any areas of concern not just financial of course we can't guarantee we
[2:22:00] are going to be less. I don't want municipalities to think if we take it over there going to
[2:22:06] get a cost savings. They may not. But what other issues are arising with them having
[2:22:14] control of the fire department? I know we talked a lot about the police department and the
[2:22:19] issues of communication and so on. So I would like to see were there any other areas of
[2:22:25] improvement that was needed and that was never addressed, and certainly look forward to
[2:22:31] seeing what that would entail for us to take back the fire department as opposed to
[2:22:41] leaving it with BSO. Thank you for bringing the item.
[2:22:51] >> COMMISSIONER FISHER: I would like to move to direct County administrator to place an item
[2:22:54] on the September 22, 2026 board agenda for the board to consider whether Broward County
[2:22:58] should not renew the five-year term for the local agreement of the fire rescue area is so
[2:23:00] direct County administrator with the counties attorney's office to provide written
[2:23:10] notice of that decision to BSO so we can discuss it on September -- on the 22nd.
[2:23:20] > MAYOR BOGEN: I hear a motion can have a second? I have a motion in the second to
[2:23:23] direct County attorney's office or administration to bring back what he was looking to get
[2:23:29] back. Have a motion and a second all in favor? Any opposed? Show that passing
[2:23:33] 9/0. We will go to number 45 real quickly.
[2:23:47] >> COMMISSIONER FURR: I think is somebody from the public as well.
[2:23:50] >> Motion to thisdirect further evaluation of the public-private proposal
[2:23:57] submitted by liability company for construction and operation of composting facility on
[2:24:03] County owned property and incorporate Broward County to publish notice of the
[2:24:10] unsolicited proposal for the same project. Motion to direct County administrator for the
[2:24:19] visibility of county owned and operated composting facility on county owned property located
[2:24:33] at 7101 southwest. 25th avenue unincorporated Broward County. Two members of the public has
[2:24:36] signed up to speak on item. The first one is Dustin and the second is Nick.
[2:24:39] >> MAYOR BOGEN: Good afternoon, state your name.
[2:24:40] >> Dustin with filthy organics. Thank you for seeing me today. I thought I was
[2:24:49] going to be saying the morning but that is at the door. Believe it or not I have been
[2:24:52] working on it composting since the 2020 efforts. I met with Commissioner Fisher to talk
[2:24:59] about some land opportunities at the time. There was no appetite for it. Which is fine
[2:25:03] but we have data from the last six years with the hope of getting to the point we are at
[2:25:10] today. With their encouragement, I have been working with the commission
[2:25:12] staff to develop the project for more than a year now. I truly appreciate your help so
[2:25:22] far. I'm encouraged to see the county and its municipalities eagerness to utilize composting
[2:25:25] for recycling it is such a valuable resource. I hope this can move for today in a most
[2:25:31] expeditious means possible. I am a little confused by the request to issues excuse me the
[2:25:38] request to have staff explored doing this on their own. About a year and and a half ago
[2:25:40] engineering issue their studies in the master plan that did review all of this already.
[2:25:53] That is why I am here today. I'm seeking a partnership with the county. Please vote to
[2:26:00] move forward with the filthy organics so we can provide a sustainable waste solution
[2:26:03] together. Thank you. >> SENATOR GELLER: I want to
[2:26:17] verify the type of composting you're doing will be yard waste only and not food waste is that
[2:26:19] accurate? >> That is correct.
[2:26:26] >> MAYOR BOGEN: Number 45 County administrator to proceed with further evaluation. It
[2:26:31] should be with further filthy evaluation. Make sure you put in the right words. Proceed
[2:26:40] with filthy evaluation okay? >> COMMISSIONER ROGERS: I was
[2:26:51] not sure what this meant. Honestly, don't do jokes. It is not very clear. You have
[2:26:55] heard me over the years talk about defecation. Or whatever it is, I know that Michael
[2:27:18] wanted to know where the site is located. I keep hearing unincorporated Broward County.
[2:27:21] But who are the people that would be living closer? Just because I don't know and I know
[2:27:26] district 1 so I wanted to hear from how close are you to human beings?
[2:27:37] >> Our last speaker is Nick Matthews.
[2:27:41] >> Good afternoon Nick Matthews on behalf of filthy organics. Thank you for the
[2:27:46] opportunity mayor and members of the commission. Real quick I wanted to remind the
[2:27:54] commission, it has been literally over year since we first met with your staff and
[2:28:00] filthy organics. Explore a partnership between filthy organics the county and
[2:28:07] exploring land opportunities we have been before you previously and there was consensus that
[2:28:09] the previous site may not be a great option. It was your vision in your direction that
[2:28:18] sent us back to staff to do our homework. We have to come to a site that I think is really a
[2:28:21] great option for this. The memo issued by your staff essentially recommends moving
[2:28:29] forward with the process and raises some general issues that we feel largely contractual in
[2:28:32] nature. Everything raised in a memo are things that we can sit down and hammer out and
[2:28:34] negotiation session with her staff. Absolute confidence we can handle that. The one thing
[2:28:37] and this is where I'm hoping attorney Mr. Andrew Meyers the way it recommends that staff
[2:28:53] move with the competitive solicitation part about the unsolicited proposal process.
[2:28:55] Florida law now allows for unsolicited proposal processes to move forward as long as you
[2:29:00] bring an item to a publicly noticed agenda twice. You have an agenda two times and you
[2:29:07] don't have to go to the market and look for a bunch of people from out of the area, from
[2:29:18] across the country to throw in proposals. I would suggest we have been here two or three
[2:29:21] times and has been a year in the making. The only person knocking at your door kicking
[2:29:23] down your door to partner with you is Dustin with filthy organics. He is Broward base,
[2:29:40] he is a CBE and committed to Broward. He has been working with the county over year in
[2:29:42] good faith. What we would, what I would respectfully request is to amend your motion
[2:29:45] to take advantage of this new process under Florida law where you can expedite things. We
[2:29:47] can move things quicker and bring an item to agenda items and move ahead and get to the
[2:29:49] negotiation table. Your staff Monica, Kevin who have a great and very accessible throughout
[2:30:04] this process, I'm confident we're going to get to the table bring back something you guys
[2:30:06] can be proud of and Dustin will start turning this yard waste into a quality product. I'm
[2:30:09] looking forward to getting started. Thank you.
[2:30:12] >> In case my fellow commissioners did know that the solid waste Authority is now a
[2:30:14] done deal. It passed on last Friday. All the cities but two state with it. Deerfield Beach
[2:30:28] and Miramar decided not to. It is 26 cities and the county. What that essentially does, the
[2:30:42] solid waste Authority now has the ability to have full control. They can direct where
[2:30:45] waste goes. Obviously this is one of the best opportunities to be able to send yard waste
[2:30:47] our own landfill. And Senator Geller your question was a good one. All the surrounding
[2:30:58] cities said as long as it is not food waste bring it on. And let me just for say I
[2:31:03] really appreciate filthy organics model and what they are doing. Dustin, you have
[2:31:10] been at every meeting with solid waste Authority since it started almost. You are very
[2:31:16] good person to be working with. Here is what when I look at your proposal here is what did
[2:31:25] concern me with it. You're starting with 25,000 tons up to 100,000 ton capacity. My
[2:31:29] concern is this. The estimate of yard waste and Broward County is going to be out there
[2:31:40] about 300,000 yard waste. The solid waste need to hammer this out and figure out is it all
[2:31:45] going to go there? Are we going to divide the county into quadrants? We also have to see
[2:31:54] where all this yard waste is currently going? We kind of have an idea already. We have
[2:31:59] to talk and cities are going to have to be willing to source separate. This is not what
[2:32:07] they are doing right now. You get yard waste picked up at your house and a lot of times
[2:32:15] it is both yard waste and all kind of junk on certain days. We are going to need if it is
[2:32:24] going to go it has to be source separated or needs to be. There's a lot of questions that
[2:32:29] are here. What I put here is an additional motion. To evaluate the feasibility and I
[2:32:38] honestly do not know which one would be better. Of the county owning and operating a yard
[2:32:42] waste there. One of the reasons I saw in the proposals from filthy organics and from
[2:32:57] admin this would be risk-free by having filthy organics do this. I do not see a big risk.
[2:33:01] Because you've got flow control, we've got the acreage in all of the stuff. 30 years
[2:33:11] ago the County commission decided not to own waste energy plants. The reason was they
[2:33:19] said because we don't know what the risk is. We don't know, it was new technology, we don't
[2:33:25] know of these things are going to blow up. We don't know what is going to happen. They did
[2:33:28] not own it, they delegated that authority to waste management. Consequently, while Palm Beach
[2:33:36] is building a brand-new one, we had ours torn down. At a cost, we let waste management do
[2:33:49] that, I think Miami-Dade got an estimate the other day and it was almost $3 billion. That
[2:33:53] kind of ask, we can't let those assets go. One of the things solid waste Authority has been
[2:34:03] looking at is, what and where can we control our own destiny? I do think Dustin would be a
[2:34:15] fantastic somebody to work with. But I think the solid waste Authority does need to
[2:34:18] decide whether or not we need to own the facility or not? That is an open question. And
[2:34:21] I want to bring that to the solid waste Authority with this motion. I want to pass both of
[2:34:29] these motions and let them both be evaluated. The first one is looking at the proposal by
[2:34:33] filthy organics. And I am putting this forward to your company. You want to think of
[2:34:42] how can you have a larger capacity? I know I've spoken with Kevin on this and do we
[2:34:48] want to do a small or start off small? I don't think we need to do that. I don't think we
[2:35:00] need to start off small. We know we have full control. We know there's 300,000 tons of
[2:35:04] yard waste in his county that needs to go somewhere. A year from now, we have to come back
[2:35:09] all of the cities with all of the prices of what all the yard waste is going to be. What the
[2:35:17] disposal is, what recycling and all of these costs. At the time they have the option of
[2:35:20] saying, we want to go further or not. I think we need to come back with a real price, a
[2:35:27] true price and a full-blown idea of how to deal with yard waste in this county by that
[2:35:37] time. And so we need to know that we can handle all of that capacity or where that capacity
[2:35:41] can be split up? I am asking both of these motions be looked at. First the motion for
[2:35:56] further evaluation for the unsolicited public-private partnership with filthy
[2:35:58] organics but also an additional motion that directs County administrator to evaluate the
[2:36:02] feasibility of a county owned and operated yard waste composting facility on county
[2:36:07] owned property. I guess I need to ask county attorney if I need to do this one at a time
[2:36:18] or both at the same time? >> MR. MEYERS: I think you
[2:36:20] could do both at the same time. I want to make sure we understand your motion to make
[2:36:23] sure are you moving motion a motion B on the material? Mr. Matthews asked for something
[2:36:33] different. I would just want to make sure. Perfect, thank you.
[2:36:40] >> COMMISSIONER FURR: I want further evaluation on part a for County admin to be looking
[2:36:44] at for their proposal how would then how could they make this bigger? We know every
[2:36:54] household has 0.85 yard waste per year. That is what we need to be taken into consideration.
[2:37:02] All of these logistics are now going to be looked at over the next, we will have RFPs out by
[2:37:08] December. There's a lot of logistics now that this FWA is finally established. The FWA
[2:37:16] need to be looking at these things. So I am asking for both of these proposals to be
[2:37:22] accepted and I make a motion to that effect.
[2:37:40] >> COMMISSIONER ROGERS: Just thinking out loud because I recall residential communities
[2:37:44] were residential communities. This is a lived experience. We have nursing homes, assisted
[2:37:50] living, group homes, we have a bunch of different homes. I know the hospital, I know they
[2:37:58] are sending all that other smelly stuff. I don't know when my garbageman picks up if
[2:38:04] he knows whether or not he is doing yard stuff or yard stuff mixed with other stuff? You
[2:38:18] understand where I'm coming from? No one speaks to that. Tomorrow it might be a
[2:38:23] three-story building at that location. So we can't say it is going to be houses X amount
[2:38:29] because things are ever changing. We have no control over it but you can control
[2:38:38] that you want to be able to control the flow of the waste. You have to know what the waste
[2:38:42] is. How do we know if it is from dogs or from people?
[2:38:52] >> COMMISSIONER FURR: We know the percentage of waste in this county. Second, what you're
[2:38:56] talking about our non-disposal. The county deals with disposal. In the agreements every city
[2:39:12] and the commercial side has a holler agreement that takes a both garbage and some of them
[2:39:16] may pick up yard waste as well. It is distinguished within the agreement. Those agreements
[2:39:22] have to be looked at totally different right now. Because right now every city has agreed
[2:39:35] that their stuff is going here, here or here. Now they're going to be saying, we want it
[2:39:38] to go there, there and there. And the reason is for the county, you're not going to
[2:39:43] stand up an entire mulching facility if you don't know 300,000 tons is coming. You
[2:39:56] will not be buying equipment for that unless you know it is going. Now you know it is
[2:39:58] going there. Now you know how much is going there, where it's going and this is to benefit
[2:40:02] each one of those cities that are involved. Okay? Does that help?
[2:40:11] >> COMMISSIONER ROGERS: Someone needs to know. I need to understand where the
[2:40:18] dog.[Bleep] Is going. You control the hospitals in larger facilities but the
[2:40:23] single-family homes that are doing all of the other stuff and I know I need to get out of
[2:40:29] here at 3:00 PM. So I am going to be quiet after this.
[2:40:38] >> COMMISSIONER FURR: All of that needs to be earmarked. Recycling is already that way
[2:40:47] and your garbage disposal. The yard waste is separate from those two things. This is only
[2:40:49] dealing with yard waste and that is it and nothing else. Just yard waste. Leaves and
[2:40:54] trees. >> We have seen this item
[2:41:04] before. When we saw the item before that he brought for the location itself he spent a lot
[2:41:11] of time, effort and money securing looking at one location that we had. We said
[2:41:18] to them, go back and work with the county to find another location. Again, the spent
[2:41:25] time, money and effort working with the county and administration to do so and
[2:41:29] they have so they came back with this motion at this particular 25th avenue I
[2:41:39] appreciate my colleagues comments but again this is a small business and we asked him
[2:41:46] to start small and grow. We asked him to come back and they spent monies in cost to do the
[2:41:48] proposal now. So I would not want to convolute it because of item B is at the same location
[2:41:59] 7105 because of item B is at the same location 7105 southwest. 25th avenue for you
[2:42:05] to look at. I personally want to support item A like it is but also looking at the letter
[2:42:14] that filthy organics sent to us with additional material. They talked about another process
[2:42:17] that we could utilize in the Florida law. I want to look at Mr. Meyers team, is that
[2:42:24] possible? Have you looked at that? It talked about proceeding with the unsolicited
[2:42:32] proposal for the qualifying project without triggering the public process. But it also
[2:42:36] provides two public hearings of the process. So the public as the opportunity to speak on it
[2:42:48] twice. Is that my understanding?
[2:42:50] >> MR. MEYERS: Yes. It is possible to use the noncompetitive process.
[2:43:00] >> COMMISSIONER FISHER: That is what Mr. Matthews was talking about earlier. Commissioner
[2:43:06] Furr did a motion, I would like to do a substitute motion or an amendment to that motion to
[2:43:09] approve A with the change that somebody is going to tell me. Am I too confusing or not?
[2:43:20] >> MR. MEYERS: You would want to move A, a process that Mr. Matthews is referring to and
[2:43:32] you are referring to is being utilized in item 44 that already passed on consent. So
[2:43:37] we have the language that we can use if that is the board's preference. And you do not
[2:43:42] want to move B? >> COMMISSIONER FISHER: That
[2:43:45] would be my motion. What that achieve the goal Mr. Matthews? These folks have been working
[2:43:53] diligently with a last year and we want to do the right thing. That is my motion. I don't
[2:43:56] know if I'm going to get a second or not but that is my motion.
[2:44:01] >> MAYOR BOGEN: I have a motion in the second on the substitute motion. Hold on.
[2:44:13] >> COMMISSIONER FISHER: We are going to change the process.
[2:44:15] >> SENATOR GELLER: I am the ultimate on the solid waste. I am going to give great
[2:44:20] difference to Commissioner Furr he knows more about the solid waste than the other eight of
[2:44:29] us combined. What I would like to ask Commissioner Furr before we vote on this is if you have
[2:44:39] an opinion on his motion versus yours and if so can you elaborate a little? Because I
[2:44:43] agree with everything you said about filthy organics. They have done a lot of work and I
[2:44:49] would like to work with them. But if you're saying they are concerns with this because of
[2:44:56] the county needed to control it ourselves, I would like to hear your comments before we vote.
[2:45:07] >> MR. MEYERS: When Commissioner -- Commissioner Furr response which option
[2:45:19] printed with the competitive process or the one with the noncompetitive process what we
[2:45:21] can give you the language Commissioner Fisher. Motion B is helpful because it tells
[2:45:26] staff what you would like for them to do. Even if motion B did not pass the solicited
[2:45:32] proposal expert to my office tell me that staff can still go through all of that analysis
[2:45:39] because staff doesn't have to ultimately accept the proposal and can use the property as it
[2:45:50] determines the most beneficial. It is helpful for direction unnecessary in terms of
[2:45:53] actually doing that. I just pointed out for whatever it is worth.
[2:46:00] >> COMMISSIONER FURR: That is a good distinction. If we were to decide this is a company we
[2:46:03] wanted to go with, I would agree with you. They have been good partners and done
[2:46:05] everything here. The one I think that needs to be a part of this conversation, we are
[2:46:13] asking they have just gone through this crazy process for 10 years now. This is one of
[2:46:18] the best options in saving money for all of the residents in this county. Filthy
[2:46:28] organics may want to take another look at their proposal. Recognizing what the capacity
[2:46:33] is now. Because they didn't know when they did this, they didn't know how many cities it
[2:46:39] was going to be. They didn't know how much yard waste it was going to be. And so, the
[2:46:44] proposal only deals with a fraction of what is needed. My feeling is that to your point
[2:46:55] if were going to pick a company, they are definitely the right company. But we need
[2:47:01] to analyze whether or not this is something with that County can set this up themselves or
[2:47:09] should they? I don't know. Eye on -- I honestly don't know. Before we go forward
[2:47:16] with the unsolicited proposal that is kind of where I feel. If we were not doing the
[2:47:25] proposal with filthy organics find something where we can. It might be able to work. It
[2:47:32] is one of the things and I hadn't seen the unsolicited proposal until just a few days
[2:47:38] ago. I own my own thought was that this was going to be a proposal and we would be able
[2:47:46] to handle all of the yard waste and that was going to be sent there are 300,000 tons. And it
[2:47:57] doesn't mean that you can't come back and maybe a part of the recognition of the
[2:48:03] evaluation of the proposal says you know what this proposal needs to enlarge itself a
[2:48:07] little bit. And that is possible.
[2:48:12] >> First Commissioner Furr, we all respect your knowledge like Senator Geller said certainly.
[2:48:26] I think the beauty of the process it is a dynamic process. It is a faster way to
[2:48:46] get to the negotiating table almost. One of the things just there Dustin just told me if
[2:48:48] there is an appetite for the county more space available, we can build up the capacity that
[2:48:51] is needed. The one thing we would want to do is pivot back to the solid waste Authority
[2:49:00] and work through that process. The need for composting is identified in your master plan.
[2:49:02] It is well documented and we have someone who is here answering the bell ready to
[2:49:05] address that now. We will work with your staff to bring a solution that is scalable to
[2:49:12] accommodate some or all of the need based on what your staff thinks is most appropriate on
[2:49:14] that site. I think the need is there and we can do it and we are excited to do it.
[2:49:17] >> MAYOR BOGEN: I need to move down here. I have other commissioners that want to
[2:49:20] speak. So let's recognize Senator Rich and then Commissioner Udine.
[2:49:28] >> SENATOR RICH: The need is now. If we go back and do this and go through this process
[2:49:34] with the solid waste Authority, it would take us another four years. The need is now. I
[2:49:40] have been looking at this and reading it. I have a question about the yard waste because so
[2:49:49] much of the yard waste comes from not what is picked up at the curbside, it is picked up
[2:49:54] by Gardner's by people that are taking it there. So do we have any idea what the tonnage is
[2:50:03] that is available from all of the commercial entities that hire people to clean up yard
[2:50:17] waste from homes and everything? I know for instance in Weston they do not
[2:50:19] pick up yard waste. We have two cans. Recyclable in the regular garbage. We don't have
[2:50:24] the yard waste. Maybe we are one city that doesn't. I am just saying, I think right now
[2:50:31] we know we have enough to get started here. It is just frustrating to me to sit and
[2:50:40] listen and think that we may go back to square one almost after these people have been working
[2:50:43] on this for a year. This is in my district where the facility is. You can see there is
[2:50:52] currently yard waste piles and then there is a proposed 8 acre site. I can see if there were
[2:50:59] a need for greater it could be enhanced and expanded. The other thing is there is no
[2:51:09] change of property here. It is our property. We are not selling our property to them.
[2:51:14] It is under a ground lease within the existing area of the Broward County landfill. I
[2:51:21] just think we need to move ahead in my opinion. And I go backwards by having to go
[2:51:27] through a whole other process again now.
[2:51:33] >> COMMISSIONER UDINE: The changes that Commissioner Fisher made I think we could do
[2:51:40] that. I would like to see the start of the process to prove concept and if it needs to be
[2:51:50] expanded on with the solid waste Authority wants to come in and do more there's no
[2:51:52] reason not to. I think if we don't start, we will be behind the eight ball further than we
[2:51:58] are. As a community not as a county but as a community we have not done the best job with
[2:52:05] our waste. We are seeing that over and over we look at landfills sizes and whatnot. I
[2:52:10] want at least start something. I support what Commissioner Fisher made a substitute
[2:52:18] motion. I do agree with Commissioner Furr. You have to go to the solid waste Authority
[2:52:23] at some point to get buy-in from them because we have a solid waste Authority with
[2:52:30] everybody. I want to prove concept but I'm going to --
[2:52:33] >> MAYOR BOGEN: I have a motion in the second we haven't voted on it.
[2:52:43] >> COMMISSIONER FURR: It has to go out by November or December.
[2:52:50] >> MAYOR BOGEN: How long is it going to take before comes back?
[2:52:52] >> COMMISSIONER FURR: We are expect to have the prices by April of next year. That is a
[2:52:58] quick turnaround. All of them have to be decided on next year. Here's the part I'm
[2:53:14] worried about. If the yard waste number is not considerably lower than what it
[2:53:20] is right now then it gives the cities, the cities have the option of bailing on this. It
[2:53:28] has to be at a better price a much better price than when -- what it is now. There is one
[2:53:37] place where the price of the cities had better prices than on everything else. Our global
[2:53:46] agreement, we are ready. Yard waste is one place where if we don't have a better price they
[2:53:50] are going to say Fort Lauderdale is going to say, I'm out. Holloway Ãthat Hollywood
[2:53:59] is going to say I'm out. I think you guys know that and it is upfront. And the reason
[2:54:04] why, it has taken 10 years to get here so give me a second. The one thing if the county was
[2:54:12] running it then you run it like a utility and you run it like whatever the user service,
[2:54:20] whatever the cost is is what the cost is to the consumer. And that is a different price.
[2:54:24] If you can get it down to, do you like that? That is where you need to be that I know need
[2:54:32] to make a profit. We need to figure something out.
[2:54:36] >> MAYOR BOGEN: I am also going to support Lamar as well.
[2:54:44] >> MR. MEYERS: It is not motion B which can still be done by staff. Motion letter a is most
[2:54:53] certain to direct County administrator to do further public private submitted by
[2:55:01] filthy organics limited liability company for construction and operation of a
[2:55:09] composting facility on county owned property located at 7101 southwest. 205 in
[2:55:14] unincorporated Broward County. This is the part that is changing. To initiate the
[2:55:18] process 255 Ã065 Florida statute rather than directing publication and acceptance of
[2:55:26] competing proposal pursuant to section rather than directing publication and acceptance of
[2:55:31] competing proposal pursuant to section 255.065 3B Florida statute and to return the
[2:55:33] proposal to the board for the duly noticed public meeting required by section 245.065.3 C
[2:55:37] Florida statute. >> MAYOR BOGEN: I have a motion
[2:55:40] in a second. All in favor? Any opposed?
[2:55:50] >> COMMISSIONER FURR: I am not ready to do that.
[2:55:53] >> MAYOR BOGEN: It passes 6/2. You are excused from the meeting now senator.[LAUGHTER]
[2:56:04] >> COMMISSIONER FURR: We will figure it out.
[2:56:07] >> SENATOR GELLER: The member of the solid waste or the altar?
[2:56:12] >> MAYOR BOGEN: We have one more. We have a lot more. Hold on.
[2:56:20] >> Did we get a response on motion B?
[2:56:25] >> MR. MEYERS: The motion was Commissioner Fisher, substitute motion. It is only part letter
[2:56:35] a and revised. Anybody have a different understanding please let me know?
[2:56:40] >> COMMISSIONER FURR: The county can still do the evaluation on the feasibility
[2:56:45] of doing it ourselves? >> MR. MEYERS: Yes.
[2:56:53] >> COMMISSIONER FURR: Our administrators looking puzzled on this.
[2:56:55] >> MS. MONICA CEPERO: Fully clarify motion letter a that passed and Commissioner Furr
[2:57:08] what Drew said earlier we will still be able to do the analysis.
[2:57:14] >> COMMISSIONER FURR: Part A is to proceed with further evaluation.
[2:57:24] >> MR. MEYERS: Until you sign a contract you have very broad discretion including analyzing
[2:57:31] alternates. You're not going out for competitive solicitation to seek further
[2:57:38] proposals. >> There is direction and
[2:57:41] motion B. Do we not need direction?
[2:57:48] >> MR. MEYERS: You could do that with or without motion B. You can determine if that is a
[2:57:52] better use of the property. >> MAYOR BOGEN: We are moving
[2:58:13] on. We are going to take number 78. It is a motion to enact ordinance Board of County
[2:58:21] Commissioner to Broward County participation fund ordinance amending article 5 Chapter 16
[2:58:26] of the Broward River County code updating proposed Center for Medicare and Medicaid
[2:58:31] services. Authorizing the use of the policies for additional Medicaid supplemental payment
[2:58:38] program in providing inclusion in the code an effective date. I did that faster than you did.
[2:58:46] Public hearing is now open on number 78. We have one speaker? Come on down.
[2:59:04] >> Good afternoon. I'm Brian Stewart the CFO at Florida University Hospital in Davie.
[2:59:11] Thank you for the opportunity to speak today. I want to thank the board in the county
[2:59:13] staff for your continued partnership and leadership in supporting a LPF effort. We
[2:59:20] appreciate the board's help in improving this ordinance amendment which is an important
[2:59:22] step in preserving access to critical Medicaid funding for hospitals and the patients we
[2:59:28] serve. This commitment helps align the counties LPF ordinance with the evolving
[2:59:30] federal waiver framework. Against the county and state the flex ability needed to
[2:59:37] continue participating in Medicaid supplemental payment programs while complying with
[2:59:42] federal requirements. For us this is more than a technical ordinance update. It directly
[2:59:46] supports our ability to care for Medicaid patients uninsured patients and vulnerable
[2:59:54] residents in our community. These funds help sustain them agency services, specialty
[2:59:56] care, workforce needs, and other essential hospital aspiration that benefits across
[2:59:59] the county. The LPF structure allows hospital federal share to drawdown federal Medicaid
[3:00:08] funds imported this is a accomplished without the grading new burden on county
[3:00:17] taxpayers or households. The timing is important because hospitals the county in the
[3:00:20] state need ordinance framework in place before the resolution. On behalf of the hospitals and
[3:00:25] patients and families we serve thank you for helping improve this amendment in your
[3:00:28] continued support of the L PPF program. Actions help access to care and strengthens the
[3:00:34] safety net in this community. Take you again.
[3:00:39] >> MAYOR BOGEN: So you want us to pass this. I thought you didn't want us to pass this? I
[3:00:41] am joking. Senator Rich go ahead.
[3:00:44] >> SENATOR RICH: I want to thank the team for waiting. We have done this before and now
[3:00:53] we are doing it again for additional money that is available for us to drawdown
[3:01:01] for the hospitals actually. It doesn't cost us anything but it allows us to serve more. It
[3:01:07] obviously so important right now given what is happening with Medicaid services that we
[3:01:14] take advantage of everything that we can bring in to our county in the form of waivers.
[3:01:26] Yes, I move it. >> MAYOR BOGEN: Have a motion
[3:01:28] in the second for number 78. All in favor? Any opposed? Show it passing 8/0. Since
[3:01:31] this is Drew Meyers date, we now have some dessert for drew Meyers. We have a combination
[3:01:40] of his favorite dessert which is strawberry shortcake, I cannot stand it. It is
[3:01:46] strawberry shortcake, do you want us to cut the cake up or do you want to do it yourself?
[3:01:54] Why don't we cut it up for him? We are going to take three full minutes. Drew, you need to sit
[3:02:32] down. Sit down please. This is a drew Meyers ice cream where it says congratulations,
[3:02:40] Drew. We have different flavors. This is another chocolate cake ice cream with
[3:02:55] brownie bites. Hold on I have a lot of different flavors. This is sweet cream, this is
[3:03:14] cookies and cream. We got to eat the stuff. This is strawberry shortcake for him.
[3:03:28] He likes that garbage. Does anybody like vanilla? Come on guys pretend you like it. We
[3:03:45] have cookies and cream. They only had five flavors. This is sea salt caramel ice cream with
[3:03:56] brownie bites. This is cookies and cream. Chocolate cake ice cream with brownie bites.
[3:04:22] Picky people. Cookies and cream and that is it. Are you ready? A little change in pace
[3:04:46] here. >> I think we can also
[3:04:50] celebrate. Mayor? I think we can incorporate this cake and ice cream to the mayor's
[3:05:01] birthday last Saturday. We have a dual purpose here mayor.
[3:05:06] >> MAYOR BOGEN: Nice try. [LAUGHTER] This is for drew. Are you
[3:05:11] ready? We have other stuff here. I am good with food and that is about it. Come on.
[3:05:46] Counselor, which one do you want? Chocolate cake with brownie bites? We have cookies
[3:05:55] and cream. Picky picky years we have here. Would anybody down there like anything? No?
[3:06:24] I can't eat it. I am diabetic, I can't eat it. The next one we are going to go to his
[3:06:30] number 43. -- Is number 43. >> Easement agreement motion B
[3:06:41] motion to authorize County administrator to prepare US Army Corps. Beach project
[3:06:49] better tropical storm Nicole flood control coastal emergency project. Motion C director of
[3:06:58] public works to research evaluate legal options for the property located within
[3:07:08] segments two and three who declined to fail or grant the county the required easement
[3:07:14] and to report the findings and recommendations to the commission. Motion D is for
[3:07:16] environmental service department in consultation with the office to research and
[3:07:22] evaluate existing storm damage easement agreements. The county for real property
[3:07:26] located within segments two à three to determine whether the existing is there easement
[3:07:33] requirement preserve eligibility for full federal funding for future beach
[3:07:39] nourishment projects. Zero members of the public signed up to speak.
[3:07:47] >> I put in for the simple reason I just wanted staff through Ms. Monica Cepero to
[3:07:54] explain this. When you talk about withdrawing from segment two beach nourishment people
[3:07:57] got nervous. I got nervous because most of my district is on the coastal line. There's a
[3:08:05] specific reason for it and more importantly my understanding is Ms. Monica Cepero, my
[3:08:11] understanding somebody was to speak on this because there could be some changes to it so
[3:08:17] we might not have to do a withdrawal. Five minutes for him or her to explain it
[3:08:23] quickly and where we are at. Thank you.
[3:08:27] >> MS. MONICA CEPERO: He is ready to give a brief overview and thank you for that intro.
[3:08:35] >> COMMISSIONER FISHER: Thank you.
[3:08:37] >> Just really quickly to your point, we are not withdrawing from beach reinforcement. This
[3:08:42] is about a project that we completed a couple years ago and there was a warranty repair
[3:08:47] that the court was going to do. As part of the warranty repair it is normally all covered by
[3:08:58] them. When we did a project a few years ago all of the easements we had were
[3:09:00] sufficient for the project and there were no issues with it. However when he came back to do
[3:09:03] the reinforcement for the warranty repair, the core had adopted some new policies which
[3:09:16] mated that some of our easements at first it was six and then it was 30 and then it
[3:09:18] may have been 90 something. It is just completely changed the whole picture of the project
[3:09:21] and had significant financial implications for other beach projects. And it has come to
[3:09:24] our knowledge that other jurisdictions have gotten exceptions and workarounds.
[3:09:29] And so we were looking at trying to see if there was a policy or legislative change
[3:09:36] that can be made so that we would be able to preserve the real beach green nourishment
[3:09:40] projects the future ones from having to be in the way they be implemented. There has been
[3:09:51] some fruitful conversations with assistant secretary of the Army's office as of yesterday.
[3:10:00] They may be able to give us some policy exception so we will work on that. In the
[3:10:02] meantime this would give us the flexibility to continue to be able to address it with them
[3:10:05] and hopefully get some sort of meaningful reinterpretation before we actually do a real
[3:10:10] beach green nourishment project.
[3:10:12] >> COMMISSIONER FISHER: This gives the option to do so and I am going to move the item.
[3:10:20] >> MAYOR BOGEN: Have a motion in a second on 43 all in favor? Any opposed? Show that passing
[3:10:25] 8/0. I assume again that Vice Mayor is not on the phone correct? Let's go to number
[3:10:32] 56. >> I do have to six motion
[3:10:37] letter a board of County commission selection committee for the selection of an
[3:10:45] independent certified accounting firm for the audit of the county and
[3:10:52] constitutional officers. Motion B constitutional officer clerk of court property
[3:11:02] appraiser, supervisor of elections and tax collector. Motion C to approve County
[3:11:08] auditor Bob as financial advisor to the committee create no members are signed up to
[3:11:25] speed on the item. >> MAYOR BOGEN: Thank you.
[3:11:27] Motion letter a motion to appoint to the auditors selection committee. This
[3:11:29] would be in addition to the five constitutional officers that will also sit on the
[3:11:32] selection committee. I understand from speaking to the county attorney that there is
[3:11:34] no limit on the number of County commissioners who can serve on the committee. I
[3:11:39] would like to open it up to each Commissioner if they would like to serve on the auditors
[3:11:41] selection committee? Commissioners please raise your hands if you like to serve on
[3:11:44] the selection committee? I like Commissioner Udine's idea that we nominate all
[3:12:08] commissioners to the selection committee. Whoever shows, shows and whoever doesn't
[3:12:10] doesn't. >> MR. MEYERS: For timing
[3:12:12] purposes Commissioner Furr. >> COMMISSIONER UDINE: I
[3:12:15] nominate everyone except for Commissioner Furr.
[3:12:18] >> MAYOR BOGEN: He took Senator Geller's spot in talking so long. [LAUGHTER]
[3:12:27] I have a motion in the second to appoint all county commissioners except
[3:12:33] Commissioner Furr to this committee. All in favor?
[3:12:35] >> Aye. >> MAYOR BOGEN: Any opposed?
[3:12:37] Show that passing 7/0. Did you want to say something Bob?
[3:12:49] >> No. I would like to introduce the item if need be. It sounds like everyone is
[3:12:52] familiar with the issues. We are following the processes prescribed by state law.
[3:12:55] >> MAYOR BOGEN: I don't think I need to say anymore here do I? Now turning to motion B and C
[3:13:06] which would take up and vote upon together may I have a motion on B and C? I'm a
[3:13:10] motion to move B or C approval. I'm a motion in a second volunteer?
[3:13:16] >> Aye. >> MAYOR BOGEN: Show that
[3:13:22] passing 7/0. We are going to number 59. 59 was withdrawn. On to number 62.
[3:13:32] >> MR. MEYERS: 62 you're ready covered.
[3:13:36] >> MAYOR BOGEN: I am just testing you counselor.
[3:13:44] >> MR. MEYERS: Give me a chance to redeem myself.
[3:13:46] >> MAYOR BOGEN: Number 63? >> A motion to adopt
[3:13:48] resolution approving July 2026 Broward County resilience plan. No members of the public has
[3:13:52] signed up to speed on the item. >> MAYOR BOGEN: Commissioner
[3:13:54] Furr? >> COMMISSIONER FURR: I didn't
[3:14:01] want this to go unnoticed and this is like a capstone. When this county put together and
[3:14:03] helped put together the southeast Florida climate change compact back in 2009
[3:14:07] this is almost like the capstone to that 17 years later. This resilience plan
[3:14:16] the amount of coalition building that this took not by commissioners but a lot my
[3:14:21] staff. A lot of staff went into the business community and talked with the community. The
[3:14:32] business community challenged us. They challenged us to come up with a plan and the question
[3:14:34] they were asking first of all, they understood the sea levels were rising. What are you
[3:14:41] going to do about it? How much is going to cost? Is it worth it? Those are the questions
[3:14:44] that have to be asked and or answered in this resilience plan. I will tell you having a
[3:14:49] chance to go to many climate change conferences, the places throughout the world look at
[3:15:03] this model. They're looking at our model and how good it is. They are saying this is the way
[3:15:05] to do it. We should be proud of this plan. Gives us a blueprint through 2070. It is
[3:15:13] not going to be easy to do. It is a big challenge. I want to thank Commissioner Bogan for
[3:15:28] putting the resilience plan and it got us a kickstart. It has brought a lot of buy-in from a
[3:15:31] lot of cities. I also want to thank Nathaniel with the county attorney's office. I forgot to
[3:15:40] list. There's a bunch of people that helped in rewriting this so that it is palatable on
[3:15:46] many levels. But thank you Nathaniel and your whole group. I'm sorry I don't have the
[3:15:52] list. You can tell me who they are real quick? Thank you. They deserve a huge amount, you
[3:16:10] guys worked on this night and day to get this for months to get it through everywhere.
[3:16:18] They have done an incredible job to build the coalitions. Unless you go out there into
[3:16:26] the community and talk with the business community and find out what they are doing and to the
[3:16:30] cities everywhere this is a huge step. I think we should be incredibly proud of what we
[3:16:33] have got here. And with that I would like to make a motion to approve?
[3:16:40] >> MAYOR BOGEN: I have a motion and a second on number 63?
[3:16:47] >> SENATOR GELLER: I want to point out this is not requiring us to spend billions. It is a
[3:16:54] guideline. I would like to thank Commissioner Furr and doctor Geraldo for the
[3:17:01] tremendous amount of work they both did on this.
[3:17:10] >> MAYOR BOGEN: A motion in a second all in favor? Any opposed? Sure that passing
[3:17:13] 8/0. Going to number 66? >> COMMISSIONER FURR: You were
[3:17:18] a huge part of this as well. She has been a part of the climate change compact since
[3:17:24] 2016? And all of this went through the climate change task force. You have been a part of
[3:17:30] that from the get go. I thought you might speak to it?
[3:17:38] >> SENATOR GELLER: I apologize for omitting her.
[3:17:42] >> SENATOR RICH: I wanted to say thank you. It has been an unbelievable working with my
[3:17:47] colleague. Commissioner Furr are working with the climate change issues. You will be
[3:18:00] incredibly missed. >> MAYOR BOGEN: We are going to
[3:18:01] go to the public hearing. I'm sorry, 66. Next item 66 is a motion to adopt resolution
[3:18:09] supporting the honorary designations of the Phil Smith Memorial Hwy., Terry Boulevard
[3:18:18] and the Memorial Highway. Recognizing Florida Department of Transportation is the agency
[3:18:21] responsible for the honorary designation markers. No members of the public has
[3:18:24] signed up to speed on the item.
[3:18:30] >> I know this was on consent but I didn't want to go unrecognized. There was a
[3:18:33] Senate bill 628 that was passed to name certain portions of the state highway for three
[3:18:41] individuals. Those individuals are listed in district 4 by the way. To begin with Phil Smith
[3:18:46] Phil was each one of these individuals their generosity of the community was unbelievable.
[3:18:54] Phil Smith has car dealership but his heart was filled with generosity and giving not only
[3:19:04] Broward County but throughout the state. Then you have carry -- Terry styles. What they did
[3:19:19] downtown is what it is today. Their footprints and his footprints and handprints are
[3:19:23] all over it. Rick and Pompano Beach created a 77 home community for habitat of
[3:19:37] humanity. They continue to provide their generosity to our community. To have them have
[3:19:51] markers on our state roads really is an accomplishment. I want to thank the legislative
[3:19:53] body that made this. This is a item that has to come before us to make it complete. I just
[3:19:57] want to recognize these three individuals and thank their families as they continue what
[3:20:01] they do for a community. This is really a proposal. Thank you, Mayor.
[3:20:09] >> MAYOR BOGEN: Have a motion in the second on 66 all in favor? Show a passing 8/0.
[3:20:21] Can we get another vote on that? All in favor?
[3:20:30] >> Aye. >> MAYOR BOGEN: Any opposed?
[3:20:36] We are now going into the public hearings. Even though we have done a couple of them
[3:20:39] already. Do you want to open it up? Thank you.
[3:20:55] >> Public hearing on item 68 is now open. The first of two required public hearings. No
[3:20:58] action on the motion will be taken out of today's meeting. The second public hearing will
[3:21:01] be held on September 10, 2026. Item 68 is a motion to approve Marine lease Broward County HC
[3:21:04] Inc. for Marine terminal in the Mayport area of Port Everglades. With the term
[3:21:09] commencing July 1, 2026 for 10 years with one five-year renewal option term. No
[3:21:15] members of the public has signed up to speed on the item.
[3:21:17] >> MAYOR BOGEN: We are moving on to number 69.
[3:21:30] >> Public hearing on item 69 is now open. Item 69 motion to adopt resolution regarding
[3:21:33] vacation petitioner number 2026 ÃV Ã02. Vacating and annulling 25 foot wide
[3:21:39] thoroughfare, 20 foot drainage easement and a 12 foot wide utility easement with track D
[3:21:43] of pleasant acres plat. No members of the public have signed up to speed on the item.
[3:21:49] >> MAYOR BOGEN: Have a motion in the second. All in favor?
[3:21:50] >> Aye. >> MAYOR BOGEN: Any opposed?
[3:21:58] Show a passing 8/0. >> Public hearing on item 70
[3:22:00] is now open. Item 7 is a motion to adopt resolution regarding vacation petitioner
[3:22:03] number 2025 ÃV Ã09 vacating and annulling 15 foot wide utility easement within the
[3:22:13] Paradise properties plat. No members of the public has signed up to speed on item.
[3:22:15] >> MAYOR BOGEN: Have a motion in the second on number 70. All in favor?
[3:22:20] >> Aye. >> MAYOR BOGEN: Any opposed?
[3:22:21] Sure passing 8/0. >> Item 71 is a motion to
[3:22:32] adopt resolution regarding vacation petitioner number 2026 ÃV Ã03. Vacating and
[3:22:35] annulling a 10 foot wide utility easement and parcel B of the bin asked plat and
[3:22:43] drainage easements with parcel letter a financial center plat. No members of the public has
[3:22:46] signed up to speed on the item.
[3:22:47] >> MAYOR BOGEN: I'm a motion in the second on number 71. All in favor?
[3:22:51] >> Aye. >> MAYOR BOGEN: Any opposed?
[3:23:05] Show a passing 8/0. >> Public hearing item 72 is
[3:23:07] now open. Item 7 into motion to enact ordinance adopting amendment to the conference of
[3:23:09] plan related to the climate change recreation and open space and transportation
[3:23:11] element. No members of the public has signed up to speed on the item.
[3:23:14] >> MAYOR BOGEN: Do have a second? We have a motion and a second but Senator Rich wants
[3:23:27] to speak. > SENATOR RICH: I'm going to be saying the same thing for
[3:23:29] number 73. I just find these changes to our comprehensive plan very distasteful.
[3:23:41] Especially regarding this prohibition to diversity, equity and inclusion. And
[3:23:54] while it is distasteful to remove the language from I understand that it is
[3:23:56] unfortunately the law right now. I found that it really must say how I feel about it.
[3:24:01] Even though I am going to be voting for it do to it being a part of the state law. I am
[3:24:14] and hope that we make changes in our land use wording that would hopefully not
[3:24:23] disproportionately impact the most vulnerable residents. And that we will somehow maintain a
[3:24:28] common sense practice that we have pursued for a long time in our community. Thank you.
[3:24:44] >> MAYOR BOGEN: Have a motion in the second on number 72. All in favor?
[3:24:47] >> Aye. >> MAYOR BOGEN: Any opposed?
[3:24:48] Should a passing 8/0. Let's go to number 73.
[3:24:49] >> 73 is now open. Item 73 is a motion to enact ordinance adopting County conferences
[3:24:57] text amended PCT 26 Ãthree. Related to policies 2.36.1 and 2.36.2 regarding land use
[3:25:05] policy and public infrastructure and services decisions. No members of the
[3:25:07] public has signed up to speak on the item.
[3:25:08] >> MAYOR BOGEN: I have a motion to move it. A second? Have a motion in the second on number
[3:25:14] 73. Senator Rich wants to speak again.
[3:25:19] >> SENATOR RICH: I just wanted to say what I said on 72 is applicable to 73. Thank you.
[3:25:32] >> MAYOR BOGEN: All in favor? >> Aye.
[3:25:34] >> MAYOR BOGEN: Any opposed? Show 73 passing 8/0. 74?
[3:25:35] >> Public hearing on item 74 is now open. Item 74 is a motion to enact ordinance
[3:25:46] adopting County land use amendment PC 26 Ãfour located in the city of Margate. No
[3:25:49] members of the public has signed up to speed on the item.
[3:25:50] >> MAYOR BOGEN: Do I have a motion? I have a motion in a second. All in favor?
[3:25:55] >> Aye. >> MAYOR BOGEN: Any opposed?
[3:25:56] It doesn't look like it. Show approved 8/0. Look like some indigestion but it is not
[3:26:04] opposition to the motion. Number 75?
[3:26:12] >> Public hearing on item 75 is now open. Item 75 is a motion to adopt resolution
[3:26:15] pertaining to employee retention amending section 26.44 of the County
[3:26:19] administrative code to comply with section 218.077 Florida statute area no member of the
[3:26:29] public has signed up to speak on the item.
[3:26:30] >> MAYOR BOGEN: Do I have a motion? Do I have a second? I have a motion in the second and
[3:26:35] Senator Rich would like to speak again. This is recording.
[3:26:37] >> SENATOR RICH: That is okay. [LAUGHTER] I hope it is. Actually 75 and
[3:26:57] 76 are worse than the previous two. These are changes that the state legislature and
[3:27:00] governor have imposed upon us to remove the sections of our procurement code that ensure
[3:27:02] employee retention in recognition of domestic partnerships and our entire
[3:27:04] living wage. Employee retention has been one of the basic protections that ensure
[3:27:12] that whatever we as a county find a vendor that can provide the same service at less
[3:27:30] expensive tax pair does not result in employees losing their jobs. Additionally,
[3:27:32] domestic partner benefits has allowed couples and households were registered as domestic
[3:27:35] partners but not Mary for whatever reason to extend their basic insurance benefits to the
[3:27:38] partner. Most importantly living wage ordinance and Broward County currently $18.53
[3:27:40] per hour for security service officers with qualifying health benefits and $16.19 per hour
[3:27:50] for all other covered employees receiving health benefits. This will now fall to the
[3:27:55] Florida minimum wage of $14 per hour. For standard employees and $10.98 per hour for tipped
[3:28:03] employees. To the firms who receive every employee is losing anywhere from $2.19 per
[3:28:13] hour Ã$4.53. I have to say this is just appalling considering everybody is
[3:28:24] talking about affordability and the fact that people can't afford healthcare, they can
[3:28:26] afford food, they can afford gas. And now with this is doing is reducing and lowering
[3:28:29] their wages. It is really difficult but again I understand that it is part of
[3:28:36] state law. I am only hoping that after the next election maybe will have people will
[3:28:42] understand that we need to take better care of everyone in the state of Florida to make sure
[3:28:46] that everyone can make a living wage.
[3:28:47] >> MAYOR BOGEN: Senator Rich, we want to talk about who is responsible. The governor and
[3:28:56] the legislature. The Republican state legislator and the governor is responsible for
[3:29:04] it. Have a motion in the second on number 75 all in favor?
[3:29:06] >> Aye. >> MAYOR BOGEN: Any opposed?
[3:29:18] we are not going to recognize you in November. Let's go to number 76.
[3:29:30] >> The public hearing item 76 is now open. Item 76 is a motion to enact ordinance
[3:29:32] pertaining to the domestic partnership ordinance. The prevailing wage ordinance and
[3:29:35] living wage ordinance amending section 16 and a half to 157, 26 Ãfive living wage
[3:29:44] ordinance. Amending section 16 and a half Ã157, 26 Ãfive and a 26 Ã102 Ã26 Ã104 of the
[3:29:53] County code of ordinances to comply with section 2 18.077 Florida statute and repealing
[3:30:02] to the living wage advisory board section 26 Ã105. The members of the public has
[3:30:07] signed up to speak on the item.
[3:30:10] >> MAYOR BOGEN: I have a motion and a second. Did you want to speak Senator Rich? Let's get
[3:30:17] a little more fired up. >> SENATOR RICH: I want to
[3:30:20] reiterate it. What goes for 75 goes for 76 so that it is on the record.
[3:30:28] >> MAYOR BOGEN: That is it? >> SENATOR RICH: Yes, thank
[3:30:32] you. >> MAYOR BOGEN: All in favor?
[3:30:34] Any opposed? Show that passing 7/1. I think we are done now. That concludes a public
[3:30:44] hearing. -- Our public hearing. I guess we are on 79. We have a delegation on Florida
[3:30:54] youth sports coaching eligibility reform. Are you here? Are you here or not?
[3:31:04] Forget 79. Number 80 delegation. Homelessness, are you here? Great, come on up.
[3:31:14] If you don't mind state your name and whoever you are with.
[3:31:18] >> I am Ariel Walker and I am by myself. Hello everyone. I -- a year ago senator Polsky
[3:31:32] stood in front the board in the Residence and encourage each one of us to share with you
[3:31:34] guys are ideas and what we have. This is why I'm here today. In In December 2025
[3:31:40] Broward County launched the safe program safe parking program which provides people
[3:31:48] experiences there experiencing homelessness -- [INDISCERNIBLE]. Broward
[3:31:54] County currently has five county owned campgrounds that are controlled by the County
[3:32:03] and their existing infrastructure is designed to support overnight stays. My
[3:32:07] request before this board is to explore whether we can designate three Ãfive camping
[3:32:12] sites per campground for those people that are homeless. I recognize and understand that
[3:32:17] Broward County current campground rules prohibit sleeping and passenger
[3:32:28] vehicles. But I am not proposing that we disregard those rooms at all. I am
[3:32:30] proposing that -- I am not -- [INDISCERNIBLE]. I'm asking to create more space for the
[3:32:38] program to work. Part of the request is looking at the data. How often are the campsites
[3:32:43] actually occupied throughout the year? How many sites are available during different
[3:32:46] times of the year? This could be a coordinated effort between screen through the appropriate
[3:33:07] system and campground becomes a temporary structure place of stability while they are
[3:33:09] working towards permanent housing. So Broward would not be the first County to actually
[3:33:12] explore it campground facilities as a response to homelessness. In 2012
[3:33:15] Wisconsin formally designated three campsites campground for how homeless people. What I
[3:33:23] find interesting is that Dane County revisited the issue in 2021 recognizing the
[3:33:30] campgrounds was one of the few lawful alternatives available to people without permanent
[3:33:37] housing. As of now and 2026 Dane counties budget includes $2 million towards creating a
[3:33:41] lawful sleeping accommodations for homeless people including a campground or similar
[3:33:46] arrangement. To me this is something important that this idea deserves to be evaluated
[3:33:53] rather than dismissed. We already have the land, we already have the
[3:34:01] infrastructure, we already have the park systems. So before we invest in creating something
[3:34:04] entirely new, I am asking us to look at what we already have. Look at the data, look at the
[3:34:23] challenges and look at the safeguards. This is not about creating a place for people to
[3:34:26] remain homeless, it is about creating a safe temporary place where someone can park tonight
[3:34:28] while Broward County helps them work towards a permanent place to live. So I did bring some
[3:34:31] data from online. Should I pass it or what?
[3:34:33] >> MAYOR BOGEN: Sure. I don't know how nice he is but give the gentleman here and he will
[3:34:38] pass it around. >> It is the resolution that
[3:34:39] the board and she passed and it is also information approving in 2026.
[3:34:46] >> MAYOR BOGEN: Thank you so much. Have a great day. Are you going to pass that around
[3:34:52] there Mike? Thank you. Mike in the back, I would like to skip over real quickly while he
[3:35:00] is doing that to number 89. Did Mark leave him fall asleep? He is here. [LAUGHTER]
[3:35:13] Mark, I'm sorry you had to wait all of this time. I feel so bad for Mark.
[3:35:19] >> SENATOR RICH: Maybe you can skip 88.
[3:35:20] >> MAYOR BOGEN: We have the best airport director in the country. We don't realize how
[3:35:23] lucky we are. >> Item 89 is a motion to
[3:35:25] discuss allegiant air. >> MAYOR BOGEN: I got it, it is
[3:35:27] mine. What I wanted to do and I am going to as counsel after this. I am at the airport
[3:35:35] twice a month. I am telling you this is serious. I want you to put the pictures up
[3:35:45] please. Look up at the screen here. No other airline that I ever seen have hundreds of
[3:35:56] people waiting and they only have two people working the county. -- Counter. They
[3:36:01] can't treat our visitors and residents? The only have two people. Mark Gale was at the
[3:36:11] airport when I was there. I was waiting in line in the fast line 40 minutes. It took 40
[3:36:17] minutes and I was in the express line. Everybody was mumbling and upset. I asked
[3:36:20] Drew, why would we want to give these people more gates if they're going to treat our
[3:36:26] customers and our residents this way? After I complained all of a sudden four people
[3:36:31] magically more appear to help these people. I have been told Spencer who works for me
[3:36:47] travels allegiant once a year and said it is always like this. They do not put staff up
[3:36:49] in these people have to wait an hour Ãan hour and half in line. Look at this picture.
[3:36:52] Can you do the next one? They are way down the hallway in front of another airline
[3:36:59] because allegiant does not want to give customer service. It is just a joke. We have such
[3:37:04] good airlines that want to expand JetBlue, American, United, Delta and Southwest. I
[3:37:11] think we need so my whole point is, I don't think we should allow expansion of another
[3:37:21] airline if they are not willing to treat our visitors and our customers better. Drew, if you
[3:37:29] know mine I asked you you went somewhere overseas and you were waiting an hour in a lines.
[3:37:32] Her first thought was, that is what people think of our airport. It is like a joke.
[3:37:40] Anyway, that is where I'm at. >> SENATOR GELLER: I have
[3:37:46] account -- I have a question for County administration. Every time he does he brings a
[3:38:00] complaint to us. Did we not pass that resolution all we only talked about it?
[3:38:04] >> MS. MONICA CEPERO: We only spoke about it.
[3:38:08] >> MAYOR BOGEN: If you think I am off-base that is fine. I just think and I only bring
[3:38:13] complements to what a great airport we have run by Mark Gale. Mark has no involvement
[3:38:20] with how allegiance staff up their stuff. I'm going to ask County attorney, can we limit
[3:38:24] if they do not want to provide proper staffing, can we limit their ability to expand?
[3:38:30] >> MR. MEYERS: We are working on a signatory of agreement that will be brought soon. You
[3:38:52] could tell me if I mistake this. There is discussion. The signatory airline agreement
[3:38:54] talks about how gates are allocated. But the airport director does have some
[3:38:57] discretion. We also have code authority that could potentially be in acted. Yes,
[3:38:59] these things can be relevant and it is important obviously for the airport to be
[3:39:02] well-functioning. >> COMMISSIONER ROGERS: Thank
[3:39:07] you Mr. Mayor. I know we have a solution to your problem. I am going to ask you to engage
[3:39:16] for everyone that was in this room earlier this morning. Tell them to help us to solve
[3:39:18] that problem. We need help. Mark alone cannot do it. You need the business community to
[3:39:23] talk to their businesses which is everyone that uses our airport and the airlines.
[3:39:29] Engage them in this conversation as to the look that you don't like area.
[3:39:32] >> MAYOR BOGEN: It is not a look. It is allegiant not providing staff to service our
[3:39:40] visitors and business community that has no involvement with allegiant. Allegiant is
[3:39:43] deciding not -- >> COMMISSIONER ROGERS: They
[3:39:50] can support changes in the airport. Engage them.
[3:39:59] >> COMMISSIONER FURR: I fly allegiant. It is the of prices are very good. It is probably
[3:40:06] because they don't have 10 people there. So when I go to allegiant, unlike I'm glad I
[3:40:10] can go to Nashville for $50. I'm glad I can do that and it is the only plane going there
[3:40:18] almost. So there are some good sites. Nobody needs to be waiting. But obviously for a
[3:40:30] budget airline for people that want to fly on budget, honestly I am okay with waiting a while.
[3:40:40] If I am saving some money. There's another side to it.
[3:40:43] >> SENATOR GELLER: As part of the resolution, we also agreed to pay your UBER fees to Palm
[3:40:56] Beach to get you to fly out. >> MAYOR BOGEN: If I have to be
[3:40:58] the only one publicly to say allegiant provided horrible service. I will say it all the
[3:41:04] time on this dais if I have to. Commissioner Udine?
[3:41:12] >> COMMISSIONER UDINE: I flew allegiant in the past few months and I didn't have to
[3:41:14] wait in line because a lot of things you do online. I know you're not good with the online
[3:41:19] stuff. You don't have to wait if you do it online. That is the story for another day. The
[3:41:29] only thing I am going to say, I don't think you are making a bad point. What I would say is
[3:41:34] I used to feel the same way and I would never fly out of terminal four out of FL L. I
[3:41:40] knew the lines were so long coming in with the airlines that used to have most of the
[3:41:45] space at terminal four. When that airline went out of business, I read an article in
[3:41:49] the sun sentinel and it was what Commissioner Furr was saying. There were so many
[3:42:04] people that complained of one of the budget low-cost carriers. They complained
[3:42:06] about the service levels and they complained about everything. But when they were
[3:42:08] gone there was a huge void in the market of people that wanted to fly at a much less
[3:42:12] expensive rate. I agree with your frustration. I am happy to tutor your on doing this
[3:42:18] stuff online. If you want to meet with me we can do it in the sunshine and we can go from
[3:42:21] there. [LAUGHTER] >> MAYOR BOGEN: You can make
[3:42:25] fun of me and that is fine. [LAUGHTER]
[3:42:28] >> COMMISSIONER UDINE: I could've taken pictures of you.
[3:42:36] >> MAYOR BOGEN: Mark does not need to say anything. I always like to hear from Mark. One of
[3:42:41] them and he is. >> I want to thank
[3:42:48] Commissioner Udine for wanting to tutor you.
[3:42:51] >> MAYOR BOGEN: I will take him up on that.
[3:42:54] >> We value your business partners and we want great customer service across the
[3:43:02] board. Where those airlines fail, we are going to try to encourage them to obviously do
[3:43:06] better. We will be working with the county attorney's office to see if we can do that
[3:43:13] to the lease agreements article. One way or another we want to make sure we always
[3:43:16] provide customer service regardless. That is going to be my mission and my mission of
[3:43:20] the team. >> MAYOR BOGEN: I will be the
[3:43:25] loan tickets are in front of that airline you will see. [LAUGHTER]
[3:43:27] >> We want to make sure from a public safety standpoint if lines need to be managed better
[3:43:44] of the pictures that you took that is one of the things we spoke about with allegiant
[3:43:46] before. We will continue to talk to them. Hopefully we are not casting everybody into a
[3:43:50] bucket here. There are a lot of airlines that do great things. Where they fail we
[3:43:52] want to make sure we address that.
[3:43:53] >> MAYOR BOGEN: I have not she -- seeing JetBlue, United, Southwest Delta and they don't
[3:44:02] have lines like this. Anyway, thank you. We will move on. I'm glad you had your joke at
[3:44:06] my expense. Let's move on. That was Air Canada by the way. That was Air Canada that
[3:44:32] decided not to distribute luggage at 1:00 in the morning. I know people to bring luggage
[3:44:35] out. The plane got in late and they had no body to bring the luggage out. [LAUGHTER]
[3:44:43] What is next? 81? Motion toward. Let's go with number 81 purchasing division.
[3:44:54] >> 81 is a motion to award opening contract to crown USA Inc. for runway for traffic.
[3:45:01] No members of the public is signed up to speak on the item.
[3:45:07] >> MAYOR BOGEN: Have a motion do I have a second you might have a motion in the second all
[3:45:10] in favor? >> Aye.
[3:45:11] >> MAYOR BOGEN: Any opposed? Show a passing 8/0. What is next? Are we done? Now let's
[3:45:24] do reports. We are going to have one out of the two. Thank you. Commissioner Rogers thank
[3:45:40] you for your comments. Are you done? Thank you.
[3:45:50] >> Juliet we thank you for all you have done for Broward County for all of us --
[3:46:05] municipalities create I want to say happy birthday to Mayor Bogen last Saturday.
[3:46:15] >> COMMISSIONER FURR: I want to congratulate Carol who will be my successor. She will be a
[3:46:24] fantastic addition to this board. She is brilliant. She gets along with everybody
[3:46:31] really well. And is already on the lot of the same boards so she knows her way so she will
[3:46:38] hit the ground running. Second, as I've already mentioned solid waste Authority
[3:46:43] is now a done deal. I do want to thank Nathaniel and Matt particularly for an enormous
[3:46:53] amount of legal work that went into it to make it happened. Nathaniel, thank you.
[3:46:56] [APPLAUSE] Wherever Matt is, it is amazing how much work they had to do
[3:47:06] over the last four Ãfive years to get that done. It will not have been able to happen
[3:47:12] without you guys so thank you. Over the summer another big milestone took place. And that
[3:47:19] was back in 2018 we had passed from this office we pushed forward the Kristin Jacobson
[3:47:29] former County Commissioner the coral reef preservation area. Now it is called the Kristin
[3:47:37] Jacobs aquatic preserve. During this time over the summer for the last eight years
[3:47:44] they have been working on a management plan. It was a turf kind of war between the fish
[3:47:52] and wildlife commission and the Department of Environmental Protection. Obviously, it goes
[3:48:02] from Martin County down to Biscayne Bay. They finally put together an entire managed plan
[3:48:11] and it is there and it is solid. It is signed and have public input. But again it is
[3:48:14] one of those things that this commission was the tip of the spear on that. It is something
[3:48:17] to be proud of. When we are now looking at applying for grants FIU has a Ãthat's
[3:48:30] applied and they got $1 million. It is one of the things how do we use that for
[3:48:33] future policy. Anyway, congratulations our department has been constantly giving
[3:48:43] input to it and have done a huge job. Thank you to the entire resilience department.
[3:48:51] Lastly, have two requests from the school board for something I think could be kind of
[3:48:57] interesting. They're wondering if it is possible to use our Broward County transit system
[3:49:03] for high school students? The interesting part on that is you are creating future users of
[3:49:10] that system. There are There are -100 bus drivers right now. They do not have drivers. They
[3:49:18] are asking is there a way to use our system and incorporate that may be combining some
[3:49:27] synergies there. I think it is something I'm throwing and looking at Monaco. It is
[3:49:34] something for us to look at. [LAUGHTER] And second, they are asking if
[3:49:47] there's a way of using County district partnership to secure the bank arena for Broward high
[3:49:55] school graduations. I will talk to you later about it. Right now it has been there all
[3:50:08] over the place and it is costing them extra money that they don't have.
[3:50:10] Unfortunately, the school board is getting starved. It is as to getting start because so
[3:50:15] many students are being given scholarship to all of the private schools. It is really
[3:50:28] hard on the school system. That is our school system and it is horrible. I think it is
[3:50:30] one of those things will -- of how can we help out? This is something for both for the
[3:50:50] transit this -- division. >> MAYOR BOGEN: If they are
[3:50:56] short maybe they should cut the libraries out? I'm joking.
[3:51:08] >> COMMISSIONER FURR: Because they have been starved, 100 schools do not have libraries
[3:51:12] in this county. Out of 250 schools.
[3:51:29] >> COMMISSIONER ROGERS: To see whether or not we can have a conversation with the school
[3:51:34] board about their vacant properties and what we can do with them?
[3:51:46] >> SENATOR GELLER: You would have to do it in public.
[3:51:52] >> COMMISSIONER ROGERS: Now that you're talking -- please.
[3:51:58] >> MAYOR BOGEN: I need to read the script you guys. We need to identify are canvassing
[3:52:05] represented for the general election cycle. The county attorney informed me that the
[3:52:07] mayor is a county commissions represented on the canvassing board unless the mayor is
[3:52:12] unable to serve. I am unable to serve. Under the administrative code the role
[3:52:17] passes automatically to the vice mayor if he is able to serve. Vice Mayor can you
[3:52:20] serve? I heard he can serve. Vice Mayor McKinzie concert. I should get one alternate member
[3:52:37] Commissioner Fisher and Commissioner Udine your alternates in the August
[3:52:40] election. Are you going to serve as alternates for November? Okay, great. Did I
[3:52:45] wait long enough? Thank you. Commissioner Fisher and Commissioner Udine knew they
[3:52:56] were going to say yes isn't that amazing? And that is my and that the only last thing
[3:53:05] is, I am not done. I was going to say Drew, you will sorely be missed here. I don't know who
[3:53:20] is going to keep us out of trouble? I don't know if Annika could keep us out of
[3:53:22] trouble? Hopefully she will be able to.
[3:53:26] >> SENATOR RICH: She will keep us out of trouble. I want to follow up on what Commissioner
[3:53:33] Furr said. I had a long conversation with school board member Hickson. We are going
[3:53:39] to connect them with Cory about the thing with the transportation issues. It is
[3:53:48] actually a very good idea if we can work it all out. As far as, I pushed her in different
[3:54:00] direction and given her a few names. It is sad because they pay over $1 million a year to
[3:54:10] pay for graduations at places. It is ridiculous. We are using nova because they are very
[3:54:16] inexpensive. It is difficult because obviously they would use the facility. We will see
[3:54:24] what happens here. I also just wanted to say, I want to thank the staff and Patrice and her
[3:54:34] staff area it is important for everybody to know how difficult this has been this year dealing
[3:54:38] with the notification of funding for homeless because it is through HUD. HUD keeps
[3:54:44] changing the dates. Everything about the applications and each time the judge thank goodness
[3:54:55] the judge says no you can't do that to go back and fix it. They come back but it has been
[3:55:01] delayed and delayed and it is a very difficult situation. I do want to thank her also because
[3:55:09] we did quickly it together and a proposal for a youth homelessness program that had
[3:55:21] funding available from HUD. In less than a 10 day period we had to get it all together. We
[3:55:31] had a rating committee and they worked with them to send the RFPs. We accomplished that and
[3:55:42] I'm hoping we get funding for the huge -- use program from HUD. Right now we are kind of
[3:55:52] on hold for 2026 and we are almost finished with 2076. So it is a problem. I want to
[3:56:01] give them credit. The work that they have had to do on such short notice to turn
[3:56:10] things around and get applications and so we don't lose any funding is really
[3:56:16] important. I just wanted to mention that and thank them. Lastly, I have been going out
[3:56:21] and I know everybody else is talking about educating about the tax amendment. It is
[3:56:33] amazing to me how many people really do not know where their property tax goes. So we have
[3:56:41] a really big job in front of us. A lot of people are out there the coordinating Council,
[3:56:51] human service Council, they are all doing it. Everybody's out there. It is just amazing
[3:56:53] giving -- given the amount of money we bring in property tax that people don't know the
[3:57:02] incredible services. This morning when you mentioned Commissioner Furr to the animal
[3:57:08] care director that is just an example and people just don't know. I have been highlighting
[3:57:16] seniors and other issues and public safety because it is not included and I have been twice
[3:57:26] out to Century Village that is out in my district. They get it now. Paratransit and all
[3:57:33] kinds of things so you tailor it. I think it is so important for us to be out there and I
[3:57:36] want to mention Monica, think there's one thing that was suggested and I agree. Our new
[3:57:40] brochure is excellent. It is updated and it is excellent for for certain group of people.
[3:57:49] But other people need a circle that shows where it goes. So you can give it to them and it
[3:57:55] is not quite as complicated as the other one. I think we need to put something out there that
[3:58:00] we can hand out when we go out to these places to give them the information. I am very
[3:58:09] hopeful. I have to tell you because I had a woman at Century Village after I got
[3:58:17] finished talking all about senior issues and public safety. She raised her hand
[3:58:22] and she said, what is going to happen to the homeless? I thought okay, you get it. So
[3:58:28] it is not just about you and your specific population. What is going to happen to the
[3:58:36] homeless? We just have to keep an eye feeling that we can do this. Thank you.
[3:58:46] >> COMMISSIONER UDINE: I also want to congratulate city -- [INDISCERNIBLE]. It is not
[3:59:02] easy. It is a difficult thing to do. You put your friends, yourself and your family
[3:59:05] through a lot of ups and downs. But we appreciate people that run for office and are willing
[3:59:10] to serve. I am seeing the same thing as far as what amendment three when that comes out. I
[3:59:19] think the people, we talk about the different pie charts and all the stuff that we send
[3:59:26] them. People think that they are paying too much for the services or too much in
[3:59:31] property taxes not understanding with the services are that is provided.
[3:59:35] Regardless of how the vote turns out in November for this, I think there is going to need
[3:59:43] to be a concerted effort between the legislature and local governments to do
[3:59:52] something so people have more affordability. There has to be some changes with some of this
[3:59:55] because people are getting priced out of living in this area. Be it with property
[4:00:01] taxes, insurance, with whatever it may be affordability is going to be the key issue going
[4:00:04] forward I think over the next few cycles. You know when spirit left the airport, people
[4:00:12] would call me and I know they would call Mark and the business community. Everybody
[4:00:18] says what is going to go on what is going to happen? You have lost a carrier and my
[4:00:23] thoughts still to this day that our area is really a very demand driven area. People
[4:00:32] want to be here and airlines want to be here. I think that other airlines I think our
[4:00:35] passenger seats will quickly climb back to where they were. Other airlines want to be here
[4:00:46] and what they want to make the investment in this area. I think I airport is doing a good
[4:00:49] job as far as being very intentional about how the increase aligned slots to the
[4:00:56] different airlines in the different carriers that will come. I know we want to make
[4:01:03] sure that we do this in a way that the front of the house doesn't have too much burden
[4:01:06] until we can connect back of the house so that people have a better experience in the
[4:01:21] airport. I have flown quite a bit this summer. I was on allegiant and I had a fabulous
[4:01:24] flight on allegiant. There were no lines and I walked white -- right through. I will
[4:01:26] see you at the workshop. >> MAYOR BOGEN: Have you ever
[4:01:32] been a -- called a pastor at a meeting? [LAUGHTER]
[4:01:46] >> COMMISSIONER DAVIS: I wanted to congratulate all of the folks who want their
[4:01:50] perspective elections including Carol and others. It was all hard for battle. Commission
[4:02:02] District 20 and 24, we trust that those who are voted in who do the work that bring the
[4:02:15] communities together. Both of those congressional districts. The other thing I would like to
[4:02:18] say is also, I don't know what it will take for folks to come out and vote. I know Scott was
[4:02:31] doing his best to encourage people. What I noticed there were very few folks who
[4:02:39] actually requested their vote by mail ballots. That is something we would certainly
[4:02:45] have to push so hard that more folks can participate in the election process. As Senator
[4:02:57] Rich mentioned about some of these laws that was passed by Tallahassee, elections have
[4:03:04] consequences. When you don't vote in these things happen DE I and all these other things is
[4:03:18] because we don't exercise our right to vote. I would hope that as November rolls around
[4:03:22] each of us will do our part because we know what voting does to educate our
[4:03:30] constituents. About being part of the process and request their vote by mail for every
[4:03:37] election cycle. I just wanted to talk a little bit about that and make sure our residents
[4:03:47] know to check their voter status and be prepared to vote hopefully in November.
[4:04:00] >> MAYOR BOGEN: You set a great example. People will not take example. I don't get it
[4:04:06] either. >> COMMISSIONER ROGERS: I am
[4:04:09] going to be brief. Thank you I am resending, sorry. I am going to be brief. State roads
[4:04:24] and FDOT what they did on election day and I don't know if you are aware so I am going
[4:04:30] public on it. They came out and they were picking up signs on election day because they
[4:04:36] were within 3 feet of the roadway. Now if you're going to do this, I think you should
[4:04:43] be notified every candidate that filled out an application to run for office should be
[4:04:51] notified. Because how would they know? They register to vote and they bought their yard
[4:05:05] sign or whatever signage. On election day you are being told you have to move the sign.
[4:05:07] They came down a state road in my district and were removing signs on election day. There
[4:05:13] needs to be something within law or whatever and I don't know if there is but I just
[4:05:20] know it seems unfair that our government is spending money to remove signs instead of
[4:05:25] spending money to notify us that we cannot do this because this is illegal. That is one
[4:05:32] thing I wanted to. >> MAYOR BOGEN: There is a way
[4:05:38] around it. You give them the sign, they drive away and you put up a second sign. That is
[4:05:44] it. You just solved the problem.
[4:05:51] >> COMMISSIONER ROGERS: I think they need to not waste our tax dollars and tell me there's not
[4:05:54] enough dollars per housing, for schools and education for children. That is where Matt.
[4:05:58] Of course I'm glad we are going to give the direction to moniker and her team that we
[4:06:08] need to schedule a meeting with the school board members that can attend just like we do with
[4:06:10] the legislators to talk about things that are common to both of us. I will leave the rest
[4:06:17] to the next meeting. >> SENATOR RICH: I did not
[4:06:22] speak the first time because we were all waving. This is a follow-up to what Senator Rich
[4:06:30] was saying. I have asked over the past 20 years at least a thousand people where they
[4:06:43] think local community tax goes? And divide the budget into five categories roads and bridges,
[4:06:52] Parks and Recreation, administration overhead, first responders and everything else
[4:06:56] that they have to equal 100%. The average voter think we are spending between the third and
[4:07:05] 40% on overhead and administration. The real number is 8%. They think we
[4:07:15] are spending between one fourth and a third on first responders and the real average is between
[4:07:19] 50 Ã65%. As we heard, I think from both Commissioner Udine and from Senator Rich our
[4:07:27] voters simply don't know where their tax dollars are going number one. Number two I want
[4:07:35] to remind all of you my emails that I sent that I know all of you had, Broward is spending
[4:07:42] too much money he made up his facts. Because he did not use the number that everybody else
[4:07:51] uses for population growth which is the University of Florida Bureau of economic
[4:07:56] research. He did use for inflation the Bureau of labor so to, division of economic
[4:08:12] statistics for the area of Dade, Broward and Palm Beach. He compared our budget book
[4:08:21] number two hour ACF R number five years later. ACF R is always 5% higher than budget.
[4:08:24] If you compare the accurate numbers we met his criteria. The last thing I wanted to say
[4:08:30] about that and Commissioner Udine the public knows we are over taxed and they are wrong.
[4:08:38] If you look at any of the national rankings Florida comes out somewhere between 45 Ã49
[4:08:46] is the lowest tax state in combined state and local taxes in the nation. Any under
[4:08:57] objective standard we are not overtaxed. But also by all rankings are number one in
[4:09:03] insurance rates and typically around 50% higher than number two regardless of what rankings
[4:09:12] you are looking at. That is what our problem is. They could fix that at the state
[4:09:18] level. They could fix it at the congressional level our insurance rates. Doing that
[4:09:26] would take on the insurance industry which gives incredible amounts of campaign
[4:09:29] contributions. So they don't do that and if you look at where the state dollars are
[4:09:36] going one of the reasons local governments are increasingly strapped among executives
[4:09:44] Florida Association of Counties, we are creating right now examples over the last five
[4:09:50] Ã10 years of how much the state used to pay for but been pushing down unfunded mandates
[4:10:01] to local governments. Not just mandating we do things but taking state responsibilities
[4:10:06] away and giving them to local governments. Making us pay for them. We are not in overtaxed
[4:10:13] state, we are over insurance state cost and it will not do anything about it. Spee --
[4:10:20] >> MS. MONICA CEPERO: Congratulations Drew. It has been a pleasure working with
[4:10:27] you and we appreciate your guidance and your friendship. We will have more time to
[4:10:34] privately share some words. I just wanted to say thank you for all of your guidance to our
[4:10:42] county. Congratulations on your retirement. As for the graduation discussion just for
[4:10:48] the benefit of everyone, I have been speaking with the superintendent on the
[4:10:50] graduation issue. I have directed them to speak with the folks about it. The issue
[4:11:01] there is the cost associated with opening the building, utility security and everything
[4:11:03] else. My initial feedback on that from both Panther folks and speaking with the
[4:11:12] superintendent, he understands that it actually cost more if they went then their current
[4:11:26] structure per graduation. They are going to be speaking I just wanted to address it so
[4:11:29] everybody had the benefit of hearing that. And lastly I will see you in a few minutes
[4:11:31] in room 430. Thanks. >> Drew, I wanted to thank you
[4:11:34] for many years of service. It has been a pleasure working with you. May God continue to
[4:11:38] bless you. >> MAYOR BOGEN: Drew, anything.
[4:11:42] >> MR. MEYERS: Thank you to everyone for making it a nice day for me. It is bittersweet.
[4:11:50] I will have a chance to visit with you in a couple of workshop. Thank you very much,
[4:11:58] I really appreciate being your county attorney and getting to know all of you so well over
[4:12:01] the years. >> MAYOR BOGEN: We will be
[4:12:07] calling you on your ship, I promise you. [LAUGHTER] This meeting is adjourned. We
[4:12:10] are only doing one because we're going to be out of here by 4:00 PM.