HomeMy WebLinkAbout2008-03-12 - City Commission Regular Meeting MinutesCITY OF TAMARAC
REGULAR CITY COMMISSION MEETING
WEDNESDAY MARCH 12, 2008
CALL TO ORDER: Mayor Flansbaum-Talabisco called the regular meeting of the City
Commission to order at 7:05 p.m. on Wednesday, March 12, 2008, in Chambers at
Tamarac City Hall, 7525 NW 88 Avenue, Tamarac, FL.
PRESENT: Mayor Beth Flansbaum-Talabisco, Vice Mayor Marc L. Sultanof,
Commissioner Edward C. Portner, Commissioner Patte Atkins -Grad, and Commissioner
Harry Dressler.
ALSO PRESENT: City Manager Jeffrey L. Miller, Assistant City Attorney Julie Klahr,
and City Clerk Marion Swenson.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Vice Mayor Sultanof led the pledge of allegiance.
Michael Focus sang the National Anthem.
STATE OF THE CITY PRESENTATION: Mayor Flansbaum-Talabisco said she is
pleased and proud to sit on the dais with such a fine group of people: Vice Mayor
Sultanof who has served the City with distinction and honor for many years, and who
brings a tremendous amount of energy and historical knowledge to this Commission;
Commissioner Portner who brings a passion and innovative ideas; Commissioner
Atkins -Grad who brings energy and is always available to represent the City at events;
and Commissioner Dressler who brings a corporate background, education and passion
to the Commission. The two years Mayor Flansbaum-Talabisco has served as Mayor
and worked with this Commission has been a great experience and she looks forward to
serving Tamarac with distinction and great pride. Mayor Flansbaum-Talabisco said it is
an honor to be the Mayor of the City of Tamarac, thanked everyone for their support
and thanked the City Manager, executive team and the employees for their expertise
and patience, and for educating the Mayor and City Commission so we can make the
best decisions for the City of Tamarac. Mayor Flansbaum-Talabisco acknowledged her
husband, Jack, who was in the audience.
Mayor Flansbaum-Talabisco gave the State of the City Address, a copy of which is
attached hereto and incorporated herein as part of these minutes.
1. PROCLAMATIONS AND PRESENTATIONS:
Mayor Flansbaum-Talabisco moved out of the regular order of business to take up Item
1(b) on the agenda.
b. Presentation of a proclamation by Mayor Flansbaum-Talabisco to Amy Conlin,
proclaiming March 12, 2008 as "Amy Conlin Day" in the City of Tamarac. Requested by
Commissioner Dressler. Amy Conlin accepted. Vice Mayor Sultanof said Tamarac
March 12, 2008
Page 1 of 7
Elementary School is the only school in Broward County with classes for hard of hearing
children; and congratulated Principal Seiler and her staff. Mayor Flansbaum-Talabisco
recognized Dr. Seiler, Principal, who was in the audience. Commissioner Dressler said
Ms. Conlin is an inspiration, and he quoted from Thomas Jefferson, "[d]emocracy
depends upon an educated populous." Commissioner Dressler acknowledged
members of the Tamarac Elementary PTA Board Members, who were in the audience.
Ms. Conlin thanked the Mayor and City Commission and accepted the proclamation on
behalf of the teachers, and thanked her husband and Dr. Seiler, Tamarac Elementary
School Principal for their continued support.
Mayor Flansbaum-Talabisco moved back to the regular order of business on the
agenda to take up Item 1(a).
a. Presentation of a plaque to the Mayor and City Commission by the Tamarac
Senior Baseball All Stars 2007 District 10 and Section 8 Champions. Coach Michael
Goulette presented a plaque, photo and two trophies to the Mayor and City
Commission, and said this is the first time in City history that the baseball team went
this far in the tournament.
REPORTS
2. City Commission: Vice Mayor Sultanof said the MPO voted to give the City of
Tamarac $9 million to be distributed over the past few years for sidewalk improvements.
Vice Mayor Sultanof complimented BSO Chief Duguay for the way he and his staff have
protected the residents and citizens of Tamarac. Vice Mayor Sultanof said when he
leaves office in November 2008, he will have served Tamarac for over 11 years, with
love; he did his best and will continue to do so until he is out of office; additionally, he
has served on the University Hospital Board of Directors. Tamarac is the fastest
growing City in Broward County.
Commissioner Portner thanked Mayor Flansbaum-Talabisco for her in-depth report on
the City, and said economics are very important for the City of Tamarac at this time.
The City is in a strong financial position and we do not expect to levy any tax increases.
Main Street is near and dear to Commissioner Portner's heart, but it has yet to be
started. Commissioner Portner read into the record a letter from Developer Bernie
Maribona, a copy of which is attached hereto and incorporated herein as part of these
minutes. Commissioner Portner said Main Street is vital to the City's tax base and to
our future. Commissioner Portner mentioned the Prestige development planned for the
east side of the City and spoke of his Washington trip and his hopes to find funding for
the City's bus service from the federal government.
Commissioner Atkins -Grad said her goal as a Commissioner is to enhance the entire
City, not just District 2. Commissioner Atkins -Grad said she is very pleased that
something she has worked very hard on is coming to fruition; the University of Miami will
train our Firefighters on emergency response to terrorism; she will try to get approval
from Sheriff Lamberti to schedule training for our BSO officers. Commissioner Atkins -
March 12, 2008
Page 2 of 7
Grad said this weekend is the Cancer Walk at Millennium Middle School, and everyone
is invited to attend and participate.
Commissioner Dressler thanked Mayor Flansbaum-Talabisco for the quality of her
leadership. Commissioner Dressler said tomorrow morning he will attend his first
Regional Transportation Planning Organization meeting, and thanked Vice Mayor
Sultanof for serving with distinction for many years on the MPO. Commissioner
Dressler will have some very big shoes to fill and Vice Mayor Sultanof has agreed to be
his mentor and share his historical data bank with Commissioner Dressler.
3. City Attorney: Assistant City Attorney Klahr had no report.
4. City Manager: City Manager Miller reported that at yesterday's election there
was a question on the ballot with regard to annexation of the Prospect Bend property.
The City sent out brochures and a letter to the voters in that area, and the Broward
County Supervisor of Elections, who was concerned about voter turn out, also sent a
letter to each voter in that area. The vote was 0/0, which poses a legal quandary. Once
the Broward County Supervisor of Elections' legal staff and the City's legal staff
determine an appropriate direction, we will bring the information back to the Mayor and
City Commission. We are, however, picking up the BP Gas Station at 315t Avenue and
Commercial Boulevard as well as the Continental Plaza, which is a voluntary
annexation and will take effect on September 15, 2008. City Manager Miller
congratulated Assistant City Manager Phillips on her election to the Board of ArtServe,
and congratulated Purchasing/Contracts Manager Glatz on his election to the National
Board of directors for the National Institute of Governmental Purchasing.
5. Bob Storch, 4622 NW 45 Court, Tamarac, spoke of traffic and the Broward
County ATMS program.
City Clerk Swenson said a letter was received from Marguerite L. Strobel, 5012 NW 515t
Street, Tamarac, regarding the Chevron Purchase. Ms. Strobel is unable to attend
tonight's meeting. The letter has been distributed to the Mayor and City Commission
and will be included as part of the minutes, attached hereto and incorporated herein.
Mayor Flansbaum-Talabisco moved out of the regular order of business on the agenda
to take up Items 7 and 8.
7. PURCHASE OF CHEVRON SERVICE STATION: (TR11232) Executing an
agreement for purchase and sale of real property between Chevron USA, Inc. (Seller)
and the City of Tamarac (Buyer) in the amount of Two Million Six Hundred Thirty Six
Thousand Eight Hundred and 00/100 Dollars ($2,636,800) for open space and
recreational purposes. City Manager Miller said Items 7 and 8 are intrinsically
intertwined and suggested they be discussed together but voted on separately.
Assistant City Attorney Klahr read Temporary Resolution 11232, Revision #1 by title.
Vice Mayor Sultanof seconded by Commissioner Atkins -Grad moved approval.
Assistant City Attorney Klahr read Temporary Resolution 11368, Revision #2 by title.
Vice Mayor Sultanof seconded by Commissioner Atkins -Grad moved approval.
March 12, 2008
Page 3 of 7
Assistant City Manager Phillips gave a presentation on Items 7 and 8. Mayor
Flansbaum-Talabisco said these items were discussed extensively at Monday's
workshop meeting, and asked City Manager Miller to restate the points about the
project. City Manager Miller said the acquisition of the station adds to our open space
inventory in an urban part of the City, it will be the entryway to the City, and the
purchase provides the opportunity to complete the triage of government services along
the corridor, it will provide for a continuation of the pedestrian walkway along Main
Street from government offices to the mixed use area via the overpass. We are
currently waiting for finalization of the Bill to fund the overpass project. On roll call for
Item #7, Commissioner Portner voted "yes", Commissioner Dressler "yes",
Commissioner Atkins -Grad "yes", Vice Mayor Sultanof "yes", and Mayor Flansbaum-
Talabisco "yes". Motion carried.
RESOLUTION NO. R2008 - 28
8. AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF TAMARAC AND BROWARD
COUNTY — FUNDING OF THE TAMARAC OPEN SPACE RECLAMATION
PROJECT: (TR11368) Authorizing the appropriate City officials to enter into an
Interlocal Agreement with Broward County accepting a grant award of up to $2,000,000
for the acquisition of the Chevron Station located at 5650 Pine Island Road (also known
as OS-159 Tamarac Open Space Reclamation) and accepting the conceptual Open
Space Management Plan included in the agreement for the development of Tamarac
Open Space Reclamation Project; authorizing the appropriate City officials to execute
the Declaration of Restrictive Covenants in accordance with the Interlocal Agreement;
authorizing the City Clerk to record the Declaration of Restrictive Covenants in the
Public Records of Broward County; providing for inclusion of the obligations set forth
within the Conceptual Park Management Plan in the City's 5 year Capital Improvement
program; authorizing the appropriate City officials to amend the general capital fund
budget in the amount of $2,686,800 in accordance with proper accounting procedures.
On roll call for Item No. 8, Commissioner Dressler voted "yes", Commissioner Atkins -
Grad "yes", Vice Mayor Sultanof "yes", Commissioner Portner "yes", and Mayor
Flansbaum-Talabisco "yes". Motion carried.
RESOLUTION NO. R2008 - 29
Vice Mayor Sultanof left the meeting at 8:20 p.m.
Commissioner Portner said this passive park is important to Main Street; it will be the
entryway into the City. Commissioner Portner questioned the $2 million from Broward
County and Assistant City Manager Phillips explained Interlocal Agreements with
Broward County are typically written this way; once the purchase/sale is approved the
City will go through its due diligence. The County never awards more than $2 million
and the amount the City will get is based on the appraised value of the parcel. If the
appraisal comes in at less than $2 million, the County may award the appraised value
plus 10%. Assistant City Manager Phillips said she will keep the Mayor and City
Commission apprised of the progress as we go through the process and if the
appraisals come in at less than anticipated we will come back to the Mayor and City
Commission for direction. Commissioner Dressler said regarding commercial land
March 12, 2008
Page 4 of 7
acquisition in general, prudent fiscal planning should be long term. With the economy in
a recession, developers find it hard to obtain funding, so there is the opportunity for
municipalities to buy low. We should look toward establishing a rotating lending facility
to acquire land when it becomes available. Mayor Flansbaum-Talabisco said both
Commissioner Portner and Commissioner Dressier's points are well stated, and she
informed everyone that this particular piece of property was originally owned by the City.
Mayor Flansbaum-Talabisco thanked Assistant City Manager Phillips for working on this
project, and added Chevron and the County posed many challenges to the City in this
endeavor. Mayor Flansbaum-Talabisco thanked County Vice Mayor Ritter and
Commissioner Lieberman for their efforts on behalf of the City. Mayor Flansbaum-
Talabisco said she was asked how much the City would lose in taxes should the
purchase be approved and how many people would be put out of work. The City will
lose $8,000 in taxes and two people will be out of work should we assume this property.
Mayor Flansbaum-Talabisco added that she supports the project.
Mayor Flansbaum-Talabisco moved back into the regular order of business to Item 6 on
the Consent Agenda
CONSENT AGENDA
6. City Manager Miller explained Item 6(g) regarding budget expenditures was
amended adding a donation to Challenger Baseball for $2,750. Commissioner Dressler
seconded by Commissioner Atkins -Grad moved approval of all items on the consent
agenda. Commissioner Portner said at the workshop meeting he had suggested next
budget year we divide the donation for Challenger Baseball by the number of
organizations to which we make donations, and take that amount away from each
organization to enable us to give to Challenger Baseball without adding to our budget.
Commissioner Atkins -Grad said this team is comprised of children with physical and
mental disabilities and it is a worthwhile cause. On roll call Commissioner Portner voted
"yes", Commissioner Dressler "yes", Commissioner Atkins -Grad "yes", and Mayor
Flansbaum-Talabisco "yes". Motion carried.
a. APPROVE the minutes of the February 27, 2008 Regular City Commission
meeting.
APPROVED
b. APPOINTING AN ALTERNATE MEMBER TO THE PARKS AND
RECREATION BOARD: (TR11364) Appointing an alternate member to the Parks and
Recreation Board to complete an unexpired term ending November 10, 2008 or until
such time as reappointments are made.
RESOLUTION NO. R2008 - 30
C. APPOINTING ONE REGULAR MEMBER AND TWO ALTERNATE MEMBERS
TO THE SOCIAL SERVICES BOARD: (TR11365) Appointing one regular member and
two alternate members to the Social Services Board to complete unexpired terms
ending November 10, 2008 or until reappointments are made.
RESOLUTION NO. R2008 - 31
March 12, 2008
Page 5 of 7
d. AGREEMENT FOR FY08 INFLOW AND INFILTRATION PROJECT —
INSITUFORM TECHNOLOGIES, INC.: (TR11360) Accepting and executing an
agreement for the FY08 Inflow and Infiltration Project for Sewer Main Rehabilitation with
Insituform Technologies, Inc., utilizing City of Fort Lauderdale Contract #11273, for an
amount not to exceed $800,000.00; authorizing the appropriate city officials to
administer the contract.
RESOLUTION NO. R2008 — 32
e. PUMP STATIONS 18B AND EAST MASTER REHABILITATION: (TR11366)
Awarding Bid No. 08-06B to Akerblom Contracting, Inc., and executing an agreement
between the City of Tamarac and Akerblom Contracting, Inc., for an amount not to
exceed $210,955.00 for the Pump Stations 18B and East Master Rehabilitation Project;
approving funding for this project from the appropriate utilities operational accounts;
authorizing the appropriate City officials to administer the contract.
RESOLUTION NO. R2008 - 33
f. AUTHORIZING FOUR -WEEK CONSECUTIVE PERIOD IN 2008 DURING
WHICH THE CITY COMMISSION WILL NOT SCHEDULE ANY REGULAR
MEETINGS: (TR11340) Authorizing a four -week consecutive period (July 21, 2008 —
August 15, 2008) during which time the City Commission will not schedule any regular
meetings pursuant to Section 4.06 of the City Charter.
RESOLUTION NO. R2008 - 34
g. .AMENDMENT TO BUDGET EXPENDITURES: (TR11349) Amending the
expenditure budget for the Fiscal Year 2008; amending the budget of estimated
revenues for the Fiscal Year 2008.
RESOLUTION NO. R2008 - 35
END OF CONSENT AGENDA
REGULAR AGENDA
ORDINANCES — FIRST READINGS
There were no ordinances scheduled for first reading.
BLIC HEARINGS 7:00 P.M. OR THEREAFTER
ORDINANCES — SECOND READINGS
9. RE-ESTABLISHMENT OF THE AFFORDABLE HOUSING ADVISORY
COMMITTEE: (TO2158) Motion to adopt Ordinance on second reading amending
Chapter 9 entitled "Health Sanitation and Nuisances", by amending Article IV entitled,
"The Local Housing Assistance Program"; to provide for the establishment of an
Affordable Housing Advisory Committee pursuant to the requirements of the State
Housing Initiatives Partnership Act; providing for codification. Assistant City Attorney
Klahr read Temporary Ordinance 2158 by title. Commissioner Portner seconded by
Commissioner Dressler moved adoption. Community Development Director Bramley
gave a presentation. Mayor Flansbaum-Talabisco opened the public hearing and with
March 12, 2008
Page 6 of 7
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no one wishing to speak, closed the public hearing. On roll call Commissioner Atkins -
Grad voted "yes", Commissioner Portner "yes", Commissioner Dressler "yes", and
Mayor Flansbaum-Talabisco "yes". Motion carried.
ORDINANCE NO. 0-2008-04
ADOPTED ON FIRST READING — FEBRUARY 27, 2008
ADOPTED ON SECOND READING — MARCH 12, 2008
QUASI-JUDICIAL HEARINGS
There were no quasi-judicial hearings.
END OF QUASI-JUDICIAL_ HEARINGS
END OF PUBLIC HEARINGS
There being no further business to come before the Mayor and City Commission, Mayor
Flansbaum-Talabisco adjourned the regular meeting of the City Commission at 8:35
p.m.
r
Beth Flansbaum-Talabisco
Mayor
= Marion Swenson, CIVIC
City Clerk
March 12, 2008
Page 7 of 7
rKit1
MARGUERITE L. STROBEL
5012 N. W. 51 ST STREET
TAMARAC, FLORIDA 33319-3222 Cry/
401y
MARCH 12, 200E
TO: TAMARAC CITY COMMISSION
ATTN: CITY CLERK'S OI'FICE. -SENT BY FAX ONLY TO; 954-597-3508
RE: ITEM 7 - REGULAR AGENDA - 3/12/2008 - (14EVRON GAS STATION
I AM WRITING TO OPPOSE, THE PURCHASE OFTHE CHEVRON GAS STATION. AS I
UNDERSTAND IT, TAMARAC MAY RECEIVE UP TO S2 MILLION FROM A COUNTY
C.D.B.G. GRANT TO OFFSET THE COST OF PURCRAS1NQ THE CHEVRON
STATION/PROPERTY, LEAVING APPROXIMATELY $637,000,00 TO BE PAID BY THE;
CITY OF TAMARAC, TO DEVELOP THIS PARCEL OF LAND INTO A PASSIVE PARK,
I ROPE THIS IS NOT TI,fE WAY THE CITY PLANS TO DO AN END RUN AROUND
ACQU.IRTNO LAND, PIECEMEAL, TO REACTTVATE THE "MAIN STR1:T;`I"' PROJT301', 1F
ANYTHING SHOULD BE 'IMPROVED IN TILE CTTY OF TAMARAC, IT SHOULD BE THE
441 CORRI)OR. Yr IS AN EYESORE AND A DISGRACE.
THE CITIES OF MIRAMAR AND HOLLYWOOD NEGLECTED 441 CORRIDOR
BOUNDARIES FOR DECADES AND NOW THE AREA LOOKS LIKE A RUNDOWN
SLUM, THERE REALLY ARE NOT TOO MANY "MAIN STREET" TYPES OP PEOPLE TO
SUPPORT THAT TYPE OF CONCEPT. HOLLYWOOD HAS NOT BEEN SUCCESSFUL IN
TRYING; TO T,JPGRADF: AND ATTRACT VIABLE BUSINESSES TO TIM DEFUNCT
MALL AT 441 AND 14OLLYWOOD BOULEVARD. LEARN FROM THE MISTAKES AND
MISGUIDED NOTIONS OF OTHER CITIES AND DON'T 'THROW GOOD MONEY AFTER
BAD,
IF YOU MUST GO FORWARD WITH THE PASSIVE. PARK CONCEPT, PLEASE SUPPORT
THE "FLORIDA FOREVER" INITIATIVE WHICH SUNSETTED LAST YEAR BUT IS
BEING REINTRODUCED THIS YEAR BY THE STATE Lh;G1SLATURE, THAT COULD
138 THE WAY 'I'AMARAC COULD COVER THE COST, OF ENVIRONMENTAL, STUDIES
AND PARK DEVELOPMENT COSTS.
I BELIEVE THAT IF THE PROJECTS THAT TAMARAC COMMISSIONERS HAVE COME
LIP WITH WERE PUT TO A PUBLIC VOTE, YOU WOULD FIND THAT THE RESIDENTS
OF TAMARAC, WHOM YOU ARE ELECTED TO REPRESENT, WOULD NOT VOTE IN
FAVOR OF TILF;M, I HOPE TAMARAC COMMISSIONERS DON'T HAVE THE ITIGH-
HANDED MENTALITY THAT THEY KNOW BETTER THAN THE PEOPLE WHO
ELECTED TT4EM AND PUSH THEl ft PET PROJECTS ON THOSE OF US WHO DON'T
WANT OR NEED THEM,
THANK YOU.
MARGUERITE L. STROBEL
Friends, honored guests, and fellow citizens of Tamarac,
thank you for joining us this evening, and for allowing me the
privilege of sharing with you this second annual state of the
City address.
It is an honor to sit before you as your Mayor, surrounded by
my friends, the Vice Mayor and members of the
Commission. We have all been extremely busy over the last
year. Vice Mayor Sultanof has continued to serve the City
with distinction, representing us at the Broward County
MPO, and serving as liaison to the Social Service and
Veteran's Affairs committees. Commissioner Portner has
also continued his fine service to the City, serving as our link
&� M40,
to the State Road 7 Collaborative, as well as working with
4-�ksl
the Broward County Parks and Recreation Board a
the Tamarac Public Information committee. Commissioner
Atkins -Grad serves as our liaison to the Tamarac Education
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Task Force, and has been our most vocal proponent on
water conservation. Commissioner Dressler has used his
professional experience and expertise in his involvement
with our Investment committee, Pension Boards, and has
also become Chair of the Broward League of Cities
Leadership Development and Communication committee.
My colleagues all work tirelessly in their Districts, and give a
tremendous amount of their time to charitable and volunteer
organizations. On behalf of all of us, I report to you this
evening.
The state of our City is strong, and grows ever stronger. Our
greatest asset is our ability to work together. As a
Commission, we have worked together, with City staff, our
residents, and our business community, and we have
accomplished a great deal. We will continue to work
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together, and we will continue to lift Tamarac higher than
ever before.
During this last year, we put in place a new Vision
Statement -
"The City of Tamarac, Our Community of Choice- leading the
nation in quality of life through safe neighborhoods, a vibrant
economy, exceptional customer service, and recognized
excellence".
This vision so clearly defines not only where Tamarac stands
today, but serves as a roadmap of where we are going. All of
our planning, our decision making, our every thought of
Tamarac is guided by this vision.
We also put in place a new Strategic Plan. The new strategic
plan is unlike anything Tamarac has ever produced. Our
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entire community was involved, and provided input into the
finished product.
While copies of the Strategic Plan are available on the table
in the rear, I would like to share with you the 5 goals of the
strategic plan. These goals guide us, on a daily basis, in our
decision making.
The first goal is "Inclusive Community" The City of Tamarac
is committed to providing programs and services that meet
the needs of an increasingly diverse community.
Goal two is "A Strong Economy in a Healthy Environment"
The City of Tamarac will utilize innovative management to
develop and maintain a strong financial base, while
balancing the financial needs of the City with preservation of
the environment.
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Goal three is "A Dynamic Organizational Culture" The City of
Tamarac will create and sustain a culture conducive to
development and retention of skilled employees.
Goal four is "Clear Communication" The City of Tamarac will
increase communication within the organization and
throughout the City. We will increase both awareness of and
participation in City government.
And goal five is "A Vibrant Community" The City of Tamarac
will continually revitalize our neighborhood and business
districts.
As I mentioned previously, copies of the strategic plan are
available on the table in the rear. Please pick one up and
read through it. It contains background information on these
goals, but also lists specific strategies employed everyday in
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Tamarac to help us all live up to our Vision Statement (Point
to and reference vision statement on the wall in Chambers).
This new vision statement and revised strategic plan are just
two examples of how the City is fast achieving its goal of
being a High Performance Organization, or HPO. We are
committed to providing the highest level of programs and
services to our residents, committed to leading the natio
The tool we are using to ensure this is the Florida
Governor's Sterling framework.
Sterling is a management system adopted by the state of
Florida and is recognized as one of the most comprehensive
ways for any organization to access and improve
performance and to drive excellent results. It is based on
the Malcolm Baldrige Criteria, which is nationally recognized
as the world -class standard for organizational excellence.
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High performance organizations encourage innovation,
make decisions based upon data, and empower their
employees to higher levels of performance. Sterling has
helped us focus our efforts in these areas. Innovative
leadership and empowered employees ensure excellence in
the services we provide as well as the manner in which they
are provided. Strategic planning ensures we attain our
vision. And financial planning ensures continued success
and sustainability, even in the face of challenges such as tax
reform.
As we all know, tax reform has created many challenges for
local governments, and Tamarac has faced those challenges
head on. City management has overcome year one of
property tax reform, and developed a budget that deals not
only with the immediate effects of last years legislative
session, but anticipates this years property tax reduction
impacts. Many of the changes were very difficult, but this
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Commission remained united in our efforts to provide the
highest level of service to the greatest number of our
residents.
Tax reform, meaningful tax reform, is something this
Commission supports, and hopes to see take place. Rest
assured, whatever the future holds, the City of Tamarac will
stand together, and we will work to ensure the continued
success of our City. The recent passing of Amendment One
presents the next challenge to us, but not one we were
unprepared for. During the first round of tax reform last year,
we knew there was more to come. While we did not know if
change would come at the ballot box, or through legislative
action, we knew it was coming. This Commission worked to
anticipate the impact, and we are ready to continue the high
level of service Tamarac is known for, and to do it within
acceptable financial limitations.
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We know our residents are happy with the levels of service
the City provides. During 2007, we surveyed our community
for the second time. A full 83% indicated they were satisfied,
or very satisfied with City services. 83%! This is 30 points
above the national average of 53%. This is even more
impressive when you realize that only higher performing
governments survey their residents in the first place!
Our Financial Services Department has continued to set the
gold standard, recently being acknowledged for Excellence
in Financial Reporting for the 19th straight year. Financial
Services also received the Distinguished Budget Award, for
the 10th straight year. Whatever the future holds, we know
we will be well prepared, and well advised to deal with it.
Our Parks and Recreation Department continues to provide
exceptional service to our community. Last year, we saw the
opening of the Caporella Aquatic Center, the latest jewel in
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Tamarac's crown. This facility, including the
fitness center, is an example of our providing what our
residents want and need.
In 2007, our Fourth of July, Veteran's Day, Turkey Trot, and
Holiday
Lighting events continued to
grow. All of
these
events
exceeded previous year's
attendance
and
participation numbers.
During this year, we look forward to opening Southgate
Linear Park, completing the Sports Complex expansion, and
re -building a bigger and better Rec Center. Just yesterday
we broke ground on our Dog Park, which I like to call
"People and Pups Park", because this park is as much for
our residents as it is for their dogs. We currently are
soliciting names for this park; please share your ideas with
our Parks and Recreation Department. They will be happy to
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assist you in submitting your suggestions for this great new
City facility.
We introduced a new family component into our social
service offerings which includes Family Success Group, for
families to discuss their problems, F.I.S.H., (Families
Invested in Support and Health) empowering families
towards self support and health, Women's Success Group,
to help and empower women with problems unique to
women. We have also greatly expanded our Annual Health
Fair to include more children and family services.
We maintained certification through CAPRA (Commission for
Accreditation of Parks and Recreation Agencies). Tamarac
is one of 73 parks and rec agencies nationwide, and one of
only eight (8) cities in Florida to be so accredited. While this
further illustrates our responding to our changing
demographics, we also maintained designation as a
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"Community for a Lifetime" through the Department of Elder
Affairs, proving our senior community is just as important as
ever. In Tamarac, we take the needs of ALL our residents
seriously, and will continue to meet those needs.
Our residents have other needs as well, and when they
share those needs with us, we do what we can to help. In
three neighborhoods, the speed of traffic was a concern.
During 2007, Southgate Boulevard, Westwood Drive, and
NW 70th Avenue were dramatically changed. Traffic calming
devices were instituted, sidewalks constructed, and
landscaping was incorporated into the medians. These areas
now look great, and the traffic situation has been stabilized.
We listened when our residents said they wanted more
sidewalks. During 2007, over 18,000 feet of sidewalk were
added or repaired. 18,000 feet of sidewalk- almost 3 '/
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I'm pleased to tell you that our Public Art Committee has
been reconvened, and our Public Art Plan will be released
shortly. We're looking forward to continuing our efforts to
beautify Tamarac.
P6
r a matter of personal pride for the Commission and me,
we have introduced the Florida Green Building, Green Local
Government Standard to the City. Environmental concerns
affect us all, and we all need to do what we can to be good
stewards of this planet. Our efforts this year will include
switching our Utility billing to recycled paper, ordering our
first hybrid vehicle, continuing our water conservation efforts,
as well as many other innovative ideas which will all become
part of the greening of Tamarac. We in the City of Tamarac
will do what we can to leave this Earth a better place.
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It's been a challenging year at the Broward Sheriffs Office,
as 2007 saw the retirement of Chief Ken Dugger. We were
fortunate to replace him with Marc Duguay as our new Chief.
Despite responding to 43,948 calls for service, they never
missed a beat in responding to our community. They
continue to provide the high level of service our residents
deserve, and we thank,,
2007 was also an interesting year for Tamarac Fire Rescue.
Not only did they respond to 10,787 incidents, they too
maintained their exceptional high level of service. Two of our
paramedic teams were named Paramedic of the Year, one
by Broward General and the other by North Broward Medical
Center.
rtr,(,�A i _ 1tobt,6 Q o8a�
The City of Tamarac achieved an ISO rating of Class 2 last
February. This means our Fire Rescue is on par with the top
1 % of fire departments nationally. In October, they received
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the Life Safety Achievement Award presented by the
Residential Fire Safety Institute.
When an emergency strikes, we know our residents receive
the best care possible.
Our Utilities Department continues to provide the wonderful
drinking water Tamarac is known for. And, in these days of
careful conservation, continue their industry leading efforts to
educate and aid our community in helping sustain this
valuable resource. Our indoor retro-fit program was recently
acknowledged by the South Florida Water Management
District, as we received $42,000 to continue to encourage
our residents to switch to low flow shower heads and toilets.
The waterless urinals installed in City facilities have saved
thousands of gallons of water, and has been a huge
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And in the Building Department, let me take a moment of
personal privilege, and mention the recent passing of our
Chief Building Official, Gary Jones. Gary was an outstanding
department Director, colleague, and friend to many of us. He
will be deeply missed. I know that we will be placing a
plaque in the lobby of the Building Department, and I look
forward to our commemorating his memory.
The Building Department, with the help of Information
Technology, has implemented a new wireless and paperless
field inspection program. Our inspectors now use laptop
computers in the field, which tie them into our main
computer, thus increasing their efficiency and customer
This technology will also expand the reach of the Utilities
Department, Public Works, Community Development and
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Fire Rescue. We can now bring more help, to more people,
faster than ever.
Our website now has a language translation function, so that
any page can quickly be translated to 12 other languages,
helping us provide greater service to a growing and
changing community.
Our community partnerships continue to grow, and we work
to nurture these relationships every day. Our partnerships
with our local schools thrive; ArtServe has expanded their
offerings, and has become part of the fabric of our lives in
Tamarac. We have a new and exciting Kiwanis Club here in
Tamarac, working to serve the children in our City.
Our business community continues to grow and prosper, and
our relationship with the Chamber of Commerce has never
been stronger. New businesses continue to relocate to
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Tamarac, thus further enhancing our tax base and improving
our local economy by adding jobs and increasing
employment opportunities for our residents. 2008 in
Tamarac will bring a new Hampton Inn and Suites,
Commerce Bank, our first Starbucks, and several new
restaurants. While the national economy may have slowed a
bit, things in Tamarac keep chugging along.
Tamarac University is preparing for its second class, the first
having been an overwhelming success. Our goal is to grow a
new generation of leaders for our community. Their
experience in Tamarac University will ensure they go
forward prepared, and with a solid foundation for future
involvement.
As we move forward, we must continue to be alert to our
residents' needs and wants. In surveys, and in other ways,
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our residents have let us know they would like a place to
gather, to walk, and to spend time, a place with restaurants,
shops, and offices. A place where they can live and work; a
place where they can leave their cars behind and gather with
friends, enjoying an afternoon, or a pleasant evening.
The Main Street district represents just such an opportunity.
The idea of a place where people choose to gather will
expand Tamarac's image and identity, and is an image we
are ready to assume.
While we have had our challenges in making this vision a
reality, nothing worthwhile comes easily. I pledge to continue
working with my fellow Commissioners, and City staff, to
help the development community build Main Street and
make it a reality, something that will truly benefit all of
Tamarac.
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All in all, it is a very exciting time to be here in Tamarac. In
every direction, at all times, there is something happening.
We have something truly special here, and I'm so very
happy to be a part of it.
This Commission will go forward, working with the City
Manager and his staff to continue to make Tamarac
everything it can be, should be, and that our residents
deserve.
On behalf of my friends here on the dais, I thank you for
being here, I thank you for listening, and I thank you for
caring about Tamarac as much as we do.
S 1Rq
901
To City Mayor and Commissioners' of Tamarac
We are the Gateway for The Main Street Project
I Bernie Maribona am not at war with the city as it seems like on the news. We are trying to
work things out as for the best interest for the people who live in Tamarac and all its tax payers'
business owners. My plans are to own all of Main Street completely and we can do It, But we
need the support of the city ,We need to start step by step but the city is looking in one
direction for now of what they want to see, That is delaying and hurting the people who live
there that they have no Main Street a nice place to go to. There is no difference between
having condos on top of the shops, We are building luxury shops and restaurants it will have
night life by adding condos it doesn't mean the condo owner are going to be all day in the
shops that's crazy. If we build It as we have It will be very successful for the City staff and
residence in Tamarac and epically the 575 unit Centex project 1 block away of walking distance
from the Main Street they would love it for night life and weekend dinning. We would continue
to buy more land and do residential but on the north side of Main Street Road after studying
closely the area If I were to buy a condo I really don't want to face Commercial Blvd,, By
building on the north side you have a more private feel like road and you face to Main Street
Road and residential units to the north of you nice and quiet feeling. Now that's a more sellable
JOproduct. I hope the city of Tamarac changes it's idea for the better of the Public and land
owners in the area, let's starts this new development to move forward and not backwards. it's
been too long.
We have shows planned for the entire year this is not your typical strip center, This is like a
Vegas destination but without the Casino filled with water falls, laser shows, Muscle cars, art
and craft, live Bands and free entertainment all on the Main Street Road. All free for the
general public,
Look at some very successful and nice places with no condos; Bai Harbor Shops, Young Circle
Lincoln Road Mall and Surf Side Shops,
We also have plans for all the seasons of the year and Holiday decorations.
I think no one would complain about this 5 star world class shopping mail type building in there
city?
All cities would love this,
Tha u;
Ber M ibona