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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 1 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 1 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 0-1 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 3 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. 0 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 5 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. R 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 rA 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. 9 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 X 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 10 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 11 "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 '/ ZT1M 12 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. 13 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 14 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 15 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 16 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 17 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, 119 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. 19 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