HomeMy WebLinkAbout2023-06-21 - City Commission Budget Workshop Meeting MinutesCITY COMMISSION MINUTES
BUDGET WORKSHOP
WEDNESDAY, NNE 21, 2023
9:30 AM
CONFERENCE ROOM 105
CALL TO ORDER:
Mayor Michelle J. Gomez called the Wednesday, June 21, 2023, City Commission Budget
Workshop, being held in Conference Room 105, to order at 9:30 a.m.
ROLL CALL
Present were Mayor Michelle J. Gomez, Vice Mayor Marlon D. Bolton, Commissioner Kicia
Daniel, Commissioner Morey Wright Jr., and Commissioner Elvin Villalobos.
Also present were City Manager Levent Sucuoglu, Assistant City Manager Maxine Calloway, City
Attorney Hans Ottinot, and City Clerk Kimberly Dillon.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Commissioner Elvin Villalobos led the Pledge of Allegiance and moment of silence.
BUDGET REVIEW
City Manager Levent Sucuoglu provided a brief overview of the agenda and opening remarks. He
noted there had been a number of changes to leadership positions and addressed the continued
tight labor market. He highlighted various issues leading to increased expenses and stated the
budget was based on the priorities identified through workshop with the Commission. He stated
the City continues to be in a good financial position.
City Manager Sucuoglu stated the proposed Fiscal Year 2024 Millage Rate of 7.000 mills, in
addition to other revenue sources, would preserve the core services operated within the General
Fund as well as providing funds to execute strategic priorities identified by the community, City
Commission, and administration. He thanked the team tasked with creation and presentation of the
budget for their efforts.
La. Overview of the Proposed FY 2024 Budget and Millage Rate
Presentation by Christine Cajuste, Financial Services Director, and Jeff Streder,
Budget Manager
Budget Manager Jeff Streder provided a presentation of the Proposed FY2024
Budget and Millage Rate, which is on file in the City Clerk's Office.
Budget Manager Streder stated the FY2024 budget utilized a proposed General
Fund Operating Millage Rate of 7.000 mills, which is the same as the rate used in
FY2023 and exceeds the Rolled -Back Rate of 6.3635 mills by 0.6365 mills or 10
percent. He stated the proposed Millage Rate would result in a budgeted
$38,966,889 in property tax revenue to the City based on June 1, 2023, taxable
values. He reviewed the maximum rate which the Commission could adopt by
majority vote and the maximum rate by 2/3 vote and the budget impact as follows:
FY 2024 Proposed Millage Rate
Millage Rate
Change in Budget
Amount from
7.000 Level
7.0000
-
7.0000
$3,503,738
6.3635
($39,466)
6.5442
$966,437
7.1986
$4,609,284
Budget Manager Streder reviewed the total City budget proposed for FY2024 of
$256,689,741, noting this was $4,499,189 less than the amended FY2023 budget,
as follows:
Major Fund Type
FY 2023
Amended
FY 2024
Proposed
Change
General Fund
$80,991,591
$89,722,190
$8,730,599
Special Revenue Funds
$40,992,138
$39,646,392
($1,345,746)
Debt Service Funds
$3,941,249
$2,545,999
($1,395,250)
Capital Project Funds
$13,029,499
$22,041,301
$9,011,802
Enterprise Funds
$111,447,027
$91,210,998
($20,236,029)
Internal Service Funds
$10,787,426
$11,522,861
$735,435
Total �$261,188,930
1
$256,689,741
($4,499,189)
Continuing, Budget Manager Streder discussed the average taxable valuations for
single family and condominium residences in Tamarac and example tax bills which
would be levied under the proposed Millage Rate, as well as the impact on
taxpayers under the Save Our Homes program. He highlighted that the recent
valuation report showed the average taxable value increase in Tamarac was not
keeping pace with increases across Broward County.
Vice Mayor Bolton left the dais at 10:35 a.m.
Vice Mayor Bolton returned to the dais at 10:37 a.m.
Minutes
June 21, 2023 — Workshop Page 2
Budget Manager Streder reviewed the TRIM compliance dates briefly, as follows:
• Wednesday, July 12, 2023
o Approve preliminary Millage Rate Resolution (not to exceed rate)
o Approve preliminary Assessment Resolutions
• Thursday, September 14, 2023
o Approve tentative Millage Rate for FY 2024
o Approve Tentative FY 2024 Budget
o Approve Final Assessment Resolutions
• Tuesday, September 26, 2023
o Approve Final Millage Rate for FY 2024
o Approve Final FY 2024 Budget
Mayor Gomez called for a recess at 1OA0 a.m.
Mayor Gomez called the meeting to order at 10:51 p.m.
Mayor Gomez complimented the City's award -winning Finance Department and
the City staff for their hard work. She asked about the increase to electronic
marketing and whether metrics were available to measure success. City Manager
Sucuoglu shared details of surveys conducted at events and measurements of social
media reach.
Commissioner Villalobos stated a table showing social media growth would be a
helpful tool for the Commission.
Mayor Gomez stated comprehensive planning meetings were not yet complete in
all districts, but feedback she was hearing was that people wanted more shade over
the walking paths around the multi -purpose fields. City Manager Sucuoglu
responded that the feedback received would be considered as part of this and future
budgets. Discussion continued regarding the proposed walking path.
Mayor Gomez asked how many Tamarac properties are on the Save Our Homes
program. Budget Manager Streder stated he did not have a number, but based on
the budget analysis, it is in excess of 60 percent. Discussion ensued regarding home
values and taxes levied in Tamarac compared to other communities.
Budget Manager Streder stated that based on June 1 numbers, only two Pembroke
Park and North Lauderdale have lower taxes levied on the average single-family
home, and all other Broward County municipalities have higher rates.
Commissioner Villalobos asked staff to elaborate on the comment in the budget
presentation that the City's reserves are "still strong." Financial Services Director
Christine Cajuste provided additional clarification on the City's fund balance. City
Manager Sucuoglu added that the City has a financial policy which requires it to
maintain 16 percent of the budget as a minimum reserve.
Minutes
June 21, 2023 — Workshop Page 3
Commissioner Villalobos asked questions regarding the assumptions related to
construction costs, addition of a Groundskeeper position, tree permit revenue, park
programming, camera monitoring, and DocuSign. City Manager Sucuoglu,
Financial Services Director Cajuste, and Parks and Recreation Director Greg
Warner responded as appropriate.
Commissioner Villalobos asked staff to provide a brief overview of the situation
with Tamarac Village and the City's remaining balance. City Manager Sucuoglu
and Financial Services Director Cajuste explained the terms of the agreement.
Commissioner Villalobos asked how the Fire Rescue Department response time
would be impacted by the new positions budgeted. Fire Chief Mike Annese stated
the response time is currently approximately 5 minutes and 20 seconds, but they
will not have an update to the projected time until the new truck is put into service.
He stated they hoped for an improvement due to having a closer truck.
Commissioner Villalobos asked questions regarding automated external
defibrillator (AED) placement in City facilities, increased credit card merchant
fees, reclassification of positions, and the project manager vehicle. City Manager
Sucuoglu responded.
Discussion ensued briefly regarding Shaker Village. City Manager Sucuoglu stated
there would be a presentation regarding Shaker Village at the July 10 meeting.
Commissioner Villalobos inquired as to who would be the beneficiary of the City
spending millions of dollars to acquire the Shaker Village property. City Manager
Sucuoglu stated only a portion of the budgeted amount was for the procurement of
the property, as the community center cost was also included in the line item. He
noted the beneficiary of the purchase would be the Shaker Village Homeowners
Association (HOA). City Attorney Ottinot provided additional clarification and
discussion continued.
Commissioner Daniel stated Shaker Village was a complete eyesore and she would
appreciate the purchase moving forward quickly with the appropriate due diligence.
Commissioner Wright asked why the City had not purchased Shaker Village
previously. City Manager Sucuoglu responded that the issue had always been
complications regarding ownership and the ability to sell the property.
Commissioner Wright asked whether the purchase would improve the value of the
homes in Shaker Village. City Manager Sucuoglu stated having a rebuilt and
programmed community center would likely add value to the community.
Discussion continued regarding the valuation of residences and the appraisals of
the community center.
Minutes
June 21, 2023 — Workshop Page 4
Mayor Gomez stated Shaker Village is private property, and the City is looking to
use public funds for an improved community center, so she wants to make sure
everything is done in a proper manner. Discussion continued regarding legal
concerns related to the title, deed, and legal description of the Shaker Village
property, as well as the contract details and related policy.
Mayor Gomez asserted the seller should have been required to obtain a clear title
prior to being given a contract and stated the contract process had not been handled
appropriately. City Attorney Ottinot stated the contract was contingent upon
Commission and HOA approval.
Commissioner Villalobos asked whether Shaker Village had been fined for having
a building in terrible condition. Chief Building Official George Folles stated Shaker
Village had been brought to the Special Magistrate and explained the dispensation
of that hearing. Discussion continued regarding Shaker Village and the ownership
of the former clubhouse.
Commissioner Villalobos asked about the Tamarac Village amphitheater line item
and stated the developer should have been asked to pay for it. City Manager
Sucuoglu stated the agreement ended with the delivery of the amphitheater, and the
City was responsible for providing hardware and equipment to make it operational.
Commissioner Villalobos inquired regarding park lighting, projected future
valuations, shifting tax burden through economic development, and grants. Budget
Manager Streder and Assistant City Manager Maxine Calloway responded.
Commissioner Wright asked for clarification on how staff proposed to improve the
commercial portion of the tax base. Budget Manager Streder discussed addition of
business and increased value to the facilities where those businesses operate.
Commissioner Wright stated there had been an article in the Sun Sentinel recently
naming Tamarac as the second most affordable place to live in South Florida. He
asked what the City can do to improve its values. City Manager Sucuoglu
responded that the best way to do that is to improve the community as a whole. He
noted related items within the proposed budget.
Commissioner Wright commented on the impact of the recession and COVID-19
on the City's taxable values. Discussion continued.
Vice Mayor Bolton asked for clarification on the line item regarding an arborist,
the Security Master Plan, and camera program. City Manager Sucuoglu explained.
Vice Mayor Bolton inquired as to how much was paid for Tamarac Village. City
Manager Sucuoglu and Financial Services Director Cajuste explained the purchase
and carrying costs, as well as the combination of parcels which were included in
Minutes
June 21, 2023 — Workshop Page 5
the purchase. Discussion continued regarding a temple relocated from the property
through a land swap and the terms of the agreement.
Vice Mayor Bolton asked how much residents would save if the Millage Rate were
to be rolled back. Financial Services Director Cajuste prepared example numbers
based on the median property value at various rates.
Vice Mayor Bolton asserted that when looking at the Millage Rate, the City needed
to consider all the taxes and fees residents are being hit with. He stated residents
are looking to save every penny, while the City is paying millions in interest on
investment properties.
Vice Mayor Bolton left the dais at 12:38 p.m.
Commissioner Villalobos asked for additional clarification on the lease contract
with Tamarac Village. City Manager Sucuoglu and Financial Services Director
Cajuste explained there was a 99-year lease in place.
Commissioner Villalobos inquired as to the annual operating costs if Shaker
Village was purchased. Parks and Recreation Director Warner outlined the proposal
briefly, which included programming of approximately $40,000 and maintenance
of $15,000. He stated they would know more after the first year of operation.
Vice Mayor Bolton returned to the dais at 12:40 p.m.
Mayor Gomez provided additional details on Tamarac Village, noting that it was
taxable and the City was receiving more than just the lease rate. She asserted it
should not be compared to Shaker Village, as they are very different situations.
Mayor Gomez asked for clarification on the budget for culverts, canal walls, and
stormwater, and whether there was anything in the budget related to the resiliency
study. Chief of Staff Neysa Herrera explained that last year, the City received a
grant in the amount of $414,000 to complete a vulnerability assessment, and part
of the scope of that grant was to look at canal walls within the City boundaries. She
stated staff is working with the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to
finalize the grant agreement and move forward with implementation.
Mayor Gomez called for a recess at 12:44 p.m.
Mayor Gomez called the meeting to order at 1:30 p.m.
Lb. Fire Rescue Assessment Update Results from Government Services Group
Presentation by Shane Black, Project Manager, GSG
City Manager Sucuoglu explained that every four (4) years, the City undertakes a
study of its assessments to ensure they are appropriate. He stated the budget was
built on the rates proposed within the presentation.
Minutes
June 21, 2023 —Workshop Page 6
Sandy Neubarth, Assistant Director, and Shane Black, Project Manager,
Government Services Group (GSG), provided a presentation on the Fire Rescue
Assessment Update, which is on file in the City Clerk's Office.
Fire Chief Mike Annese spoke briefly regarding the impact of the Fire Assessment
fee on Fire Rescue operations. He discussed plans to fully staff Fire Station 36,
Insurance Services Office Fire Score (ISO rating), financial impact on property
insurance, and public safety.
Commissioner Villalobos asked for clarification on the terminology used in the
study. Ms. Neubarth explained level of service and differences in level of service
between agencies.
Commissioner Daniel asked whether the level of service was comparable between
the cities utilized in the study. Ms. Neubarth stated she did not know the ISO ratings
of individual cities, but all were Advanced Life Support (ALS).
Vice Mayor Bolton asked what goes into an ISO rating. Fire Chief Annese
explained. He noted changes within the industry and the importance of maintaining
a level rating. Discussion continued regarding risk factors, response times, and the
impact of having a station without an apparatus.
Vice Mayor Bolton inquired as to the costs associated with equipment and staffing
for Fire Station 36. Fire Chief Annese responded. Discussion continued.
Commissioner Daniel asked how the service provided in Tamarac compared with
Southwest Ranches, Weston, and Lauderhill, the cities shown in the presentation as
having higher Fire Assessments than Tamarac. Fire Chief Annese stated it was all
about time, and response times would be improved with the addition of a truck at
Fire Station 36. He added that Tamarac Fire services are second to none, and the
City does a great job.
Discussion continued regarding differences in funding approaches between
communities. Ms. Neubarth noted some municipalities offset a portion of the fees
from the General Fund, and pointed out the makeup of the tax base and demand are
also factors.
Commissioner Wright asked what other fire departments in Broward County have
an ISO Rating of 1. Assistant Fire Chief Jonathan Frasher reviewed the list and
noted which departments are rated and which are not. Discussion continued
regarding the Broward Sheriff s Office (BSO) ISO rating and response times.
Commissioner Wright asked why all but one (1) of the cities that use BSO Fire
Department have lower Fire Assessment rates. Fire Chief Annese stated different
communities operate their businesses differently, and factors such as collection rate
Minutes
June 21, 2023 — Workshop Page 7
for emergency services, Millage Rates, and inspection fees would need to be
considered to compare.
City Manager Sucuoglu added that some cities subsidize more of the cost of fire
services from the General Fund than others.
Vice Mayor Bolton noted that Assistant Fire Chief Frasher had assisted BSO with
their ISO rating, and that would continue if the City were to switch to BSO Fire.
Assistant Fire Chief Frasher stated he would go where he was directed.
Vice Mayor Bolton asked Fire Chief Annese to explain why staff would propose
an increase to fees now. Fire Chief Annese stated staff had discussed the issue
previously and had held off due to COVID-19. He asserted costs continue to rise,
and the service requires money to maintain.
Vice Mayor Bolton asked why staff was not proposing to absorb a portion of the
costs through the General Fund. Financial Services Director Cajuste stated all of
the General Fund is presently being utilized to maintain ongoing expenses, so an
increase in revenue would be required.
Vice Mayor Bolton asked whether the belief was that the cost of fire services would
go up every year from now. Financial Services Director Cajuste stated an increase
of five (5) percent was contemplated within the study. Discussion continued
regarding projections.
Vice Mayor Bolton stated the fire budget was a large number, and going to BSO
Fire would probably be cheaper, while still enjoying the same ISO rating. Financial
Services Director Cajuste stated they don't know the details.
Fire Chief Annese highlighted that they do not know if BSO would be cheaper, and
stated there were other variables to consider, including loss of control.
Vice Mayor Bolton asked questions regarding ISO ratings, Fire Station 36, and
discussed the balance between public safety and fiscal responsibility. Fire Chief
Annese responded as appropriate.
Vice Mayor Bolton stated he was not in favor of raising the Fire Assessment fee.
City Manager Sucuoglu clarified that the costs had increased, so if the assessment
was not raised, the City would have to supplement the expense from the General
Fund to make up the difference.
Mayor Gomez asserted that supplementing from the General Fund meant taxes.
Vice Mayor Bolton left the dais at 2:32 p.m.
Commissioner Wright asked for clarification on the connection between the
proposed increase to the Fire Assessment fee and the Millage Rate. Financial
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June 21, 2023 — Workshop Page 8
Services Director Cajuste provided additional details. She noted that even with the
increase, the assessment only covered 93.65 percent of fire services.
Vice Mayor Bolton returned to the dais at 2:34 p.m.
Commissioner Wright stated in layman's terms, the increased Fire Assessment fee
was needed so the City does not have to have a higher Millage Rate. He noted the
average increase would be $70 per year for a residential customer and discussed
options for lowering the Millage Rate. Financial Services Director Cajuste pointed
out the budget was built on a Millage Rate of 7.000, so if there were a reduction,
ways to decrease services and staffing would need to be identified.
Discussion continued regarding stagnation of the Fire Assessment fee, plans for a
fire truck at Fire Station 36, and rising costs.
Commissioner Daniel stated she had met with the Finance Department to make sure
she fully understood the budget process. She asserted that either way, because of
rising costs, either the residents would have to pay more, or something would have
to be cut. She questioned the use of a $200,000 home for the average.
Vice Mayor Bolton stated the Fire Assessment fee would hit the condominium
owners and less expensive units harder, where they are the last to feel an increase
to the Millage Rate. Discussion ensued regarding the budget impact of a Millage
Rate of 7.1986.
Vice Mayor Bolton stated this might be the time to "kick the can down the road"
as it relates to an increase to the Fire Assessment as the City is looking at BSO Fire.
Commissioner Villalobos commented on the National Debt and stated it is as large
as it is because of people kicking the can down the road.
Commissioner Villalobos asserted this Commission had fought hard to lower the
Millage Rate, and he did not want to go backward.
Mayor Gomez compared the increase to the Fire Assessment rate to increases of
condominium fees. She noted that the residents of associations who raised the fees
a little at a time each year were not hurting as badly as those who waited and had
to make significant increases at once. Mayor Gomez asserted the Fire Assessment
fee is equitable and adjusting the fee to meet the rising costs was smart budgeting.
She stated there was a plan in place from the beginning for Fire Station 36, and they
needed to follow it. She pointed out that Tamarac Fire Rescue is nationally ranked
and was not the source of complaints from residents. She expressed her support for
the increase to Fire Assessment fee to fund expanded services.
Mayor Gomez called for a recess at 3:13 p.m.
Mayor Gomez called the meeting to order at 3:25 p.m.
Minutes
June 21, 2023 — Workshop
Page 9
1.c. Presentation by City Manager's Office
City Manager Sucuoglu stated staff had been tasked during the strategic planning
sessions to conduct a survey of employee benefits.
Human Resources Manager Lorenzo Calhoun provided a presentation reviewing
preliminary findings of the survey conducted of area municipalities regarding
vehicle and communication benefits, which is on file in the City Clerk's Office.
City Manager Sucuoglu provided additional information regarding quotes for
leases on Commission vehicles through the Florida Sheriff's Association contract.
Vice Mayor Bolton asked counsel whether fleet vehicles would be marked with the
City logo. City Attorney Ottinot stated it would depend on the City and the policy
of the City Manager's office.
Vice Mayor Bolton discussed potential liability scenarios, insurance costs, charging
facilities, and driving a City vehicle for personal use. City Attorney Ottinot, City
Manager Sucuoglu, and Financial Services Director Cajuste responded as
appropriate.
City Manager Sucuoglu stated the numbers were provided as alternative options,
but as a business practice staff prefers the allowance model, as it relieves the City
of liability.
Commissioner Villalobos stated he liked the idea previously brought forward by
Commissioner Daniel to allow Commissioners to opt in or out. He noted he also
thought it should be the option of the Commissioner whether their car was wrapped
or included signage. He asserted if the Commissioners had City vehicles, they
should be used for City business only.
Mayor Gomez asked whether driving a fleet vehicle would require the
Commissioners to self -insure for indemnification purposes in case of an accident.
City Attorney Ottinot stated they would not.
Mayor Gomez commented on the income implications of the options and noted it
would be inconvenient to not be able to do personal business in a fleet vehicle. She
discussed the lack of infrastructure to support driving an electric vehicle and
questioned the overall feasibility.
Mayor Gomez sought a consensus regarding the vehicle allowances, and discussion
ensued regarding liability, vehicle monitoring, personal use, and lending vehicles.
Commissioner Wright stated he is in favor of getting rid of the vehicle allowance.
Commissioner Villalobos stated he was in favor of an option that gives each
Commissioner a choice and suggested the cheapest fleet option.
Minutes
June 21, 2023 — Workshop Page 10
Mayor Gomez shared feedback she had received from residents and stated she was
in support of reducing the allowance.
Commissioner Daniel stated she would leave the vehicle allowance as -is.
Vice Mayor Bolton stated he was in favor of getting rid of the car allowance. He
asserted he had used the allowance to help residents and would continue to do so if
they kept the allowance in place.
Vice Mayor Bolton asked staff whether the Commissioners could be provided with
options. City Manager Sucuoglu stated if it were the desire of the Commission,
additional options and moving toward a more flexible model could be explored.
Commissioner Villalobos asked the length of a lease. City Manager Sucuoglu stated
the vehicle leases would be three (3) years.
Commissioner Wright stated the lease option seemed to reduce the flexibility
currently available to the Commissioners. City Manager Sucuoglu stated there was
an opportunity for flexibility in the creation of a policy.
Mayor Gomez suggested reducing the vehicle allowance to split the difference
between the two (2) positions. She asserted too much time was being spent on an
item that represented a small amount of the budget.
City Attorney Ottinot stated that because there was no consensus for any option, by
procedure the policy would remain the same.
Commissioner Villalobos left the dais at 4:13 p.m.
Commissioner Villalobos returned to the dais at 4:16 p.m.
1. Future City Hall and New Government Center Campus
City Manager Sucuoglu stated he was excited because this item was not just about
a new City Hall, but about changing the face of the City of Tamarac.
Assistant City Manager Maxine Calloway provided a presentation on the proposed
future City Hall and new Nob Hill Government Center Campus which is on file in
the City Clerk's Office. She stated a presentation regarding the opportunity to
conduct a feasibility study and advisory services proposal would be brought to the
Commission at the July 12 meeting.
Commissioner Wright left the dais at 4:16 p.m.
Commissioner Wright returned to the dais at 4:19 p.m.
2. Proposal for Colony West Glades Golf Course
Assistant City Manager Maxine Calloway provided a presentation on a proposal
for Colony West Glades Golf Course which is on file in the City Clerk's Office.
Minutes
June 21, 2023 — Workshop Page 11
She stated a feasibility analysis proposal would also be on the agenda for the July
12 Commission meeting.
Mayor Gomez stated she would like to see a nine (9) hole, par 3 attraction under
lights to allow for evening entertainment and family fun.
City Manager Sucuoglu noted the proposal before the Commission was to develop
a feasibility study to allow the City to solicit the amenities selected.
Mayor Gomez stated she was in support of the new Government Center Campus,
as the City needs it. She noted she thought the Commission had already authorized
an expenditure for the study, including renovation and updating of Fire Station 41
and the BSO building. She discussed the needs of other City facilities, including
the multipurpose center, a potential project at Shaker Village, and the recreation
center. Parks and Recreation Director Warner shared details regarding utilization
of the recreation facilities. He stated the multipurpose center was in the Capital
Improvement Plant (CIP) for 2026, but funding was not yet identified.
Mayor Gomez expressed concern related to the location of the community center.
City Manager Sucuoglu stated the study would include determining what facilities
would be supported by the community and the Commission.
Vice Mayor Bolton asked for clarification on the maps included in the presentation
and the uses identified for the area around Government Center Campus. Assistant
City Manager Calloway stated the intention was for mostly residential, with retail
to support that population, and staff believed there may be an opportunity for
limited entertainment use and that would be reviewed as part of the proposed study.
Assistant City Manager Calloway stated the study would also include looking at
partnerships and funding options for the facility, in part by repurposing and
redeveloping existing City -owned properties.
Vice Mayor Bolton asserted residents are complaining that they want more
commercial development, but most development was residential. He noted they
also want fine dining, not fast food. Discussion continued.
Commissioner Daniel left the dais at 4:49 p.m.
Commissioner Daniel returned to the dais at 4:55 p.m.
Commissioner Villalobos stated he thought commercial development along
Commercial would be great. He commented on the poor condition of the golf
course and asked whether the water features would remain. Assistant City Manager
Calloway stated this proposal was not a plan to develop, but a study to look at
highest and best use for the property.
Minutes
June 21, 2023 —Workshop Page 12
Commissioner Villalobos requested that the City not use any developer that it has
used in the past and agreed with a comment by Vice Mayor Bolton that the
Commission should have more control over contracts.
Commissioner Wright stated he was definitely not in support of redevelopment at
Colony West. He asserted people love the green space and openness. He added that
he liked the idea of a City Hall and government complex, but a more central location
would be more appropriate. He stated he liked the idea of integrating residential
and retail into the Government Center Campus.
Assistant City Manager Calloway explained the location had been selected to
maximum City -owned assets. She agreed it would be better if the City owned
property that was more central, but it did not. She noted there was an opportunity
for bifurcation of the studies.
Commissioner Wright agreed that the best ideas come from the residents, not from
the Commission. He discussed feedback he had received. Discussion ensued
regarding the golf course and Kings Point Theatre.
Mayor Gomez reiterated Commissioner Wright's comments regarding resident
feedback. She stated people are saying they want commercial development, and
they also want opportunities to be active.
Mayor Gomez sought and received consensus on continued fact-finding regarding
studies to explore options for Government Center Campus and Colony West
development. Vice Mayor Bolton was in opposition.
City Manager Sucuoglu sought consensus to set the preliminary Fiscal Year 2024
Millage Rate. He explained the rate would be the maximum allowable rate, but a
lower rate could be adopted at the budget hearing in September.
Consensus was to set the preliminary rate at 7.196 mills. Commissioner Villalobos
was in support of a rate of 7.000 mills.
ADJOURNMENT
There being nothing further to discuss, the meeting was adjourned at 5:18 p.m.
Minutes transcribed by Crysta Parkinson, Prototype, Inc. and submitted by Kimberly Dillon, City
Clerk.
Minutes
June 21, 2023 — Workshop Page 13
Jim
Kimberly Dillon, City Clerk
Michelle I Gomez, Mayor
Note to the reader: The above signature is the City Clerk, of the City of Tamarac, Florida. If the
minutes you have received are not signed, or completed as indicated above, they are not the official
minutes of the City Commission Workshop held Thursday, June 21, 2023.
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Minutes
June 21, 2023 — Workshop Page 14