From David Volz
New leadership is coming to Fort Lauderdale.
The Commission selected Rickelle Williams for the City Manager position following the interview process. Commissioners also designated Mayor Dean Trantalis to negotiate terms for a proposed employment contract with the selected finalist. The executive search, conducted in partnership with MGT Impact Solutions, LLC, began with 84 applications, which were narrowed down through rigorous screening and interviews. The final selection marks a key step toward securing the City’s next chief executive.
The Commission approved an agreement with Man-Con, Incorporated for the Progresso Village Stormwater Improvements project, totaling $39,579,918. The project aims to address flooding concerns by installing new stormwater infrastructure, repairing existing systems, and enhancing neighborhood roadways. The agreement includes allowances for permits, licenses, and other associated costs. An additional $3 million will be allocated for in-house project management, bringing the total project cost to $42,579,918. Funding for this project has been fully approved in the FY 2025 Community Investment Plan.
The Commission approved a license application and agreement with Rahn Bahia Mar, LLC, which is known as Bahia Mar Beach Resort, allowing the sale, service, and consumption of food and alcoholic beverages on the public beach in front of the upland hotel. This approval follows the adoption of an ordinance on November 21, 2023, permitting such activities for qualifying hotels along State Road A1A. Under the agreement, the resort will pay an annual fee of $7,400, calculated based on its 296 guest rooms. Revenue from this agreement will contribute to the City’s Parks and Recreation budget.
The Commission approved an agreement with H2M Architects & Engineers, Inc. for design services related to Fire Rescue Station No. 13 and Emergency Medical Substation No. 88. The agreement, valued at $1,096,299.07, includes the development of a design criteria package for both facilities. Fire Rescue Station No. 13, to be located at 2871 East Sunrise Boulevard, is part of the voter-approved Fire Rescue Construction Bond program. Emergency Medical Substation No. 88, planned for 507 SE 11th Court, will enhance emergency response capabilities in the downtown area and along South Federal Highway. The total project cost, including in-house project management, is $1,423,467.07, with funding allocated through the FY 2025 Community Investment Plan.
The Commission approved Change Order No. 4 to Task Order No. 6 for consultant services related to the new Fort Lauderdale Police Headquarters. The $946,915.78 change order extends construction administration and post-occupancy services under AECOM Technical Services, Inc., aligning with the revised 36-month construction schedule. The original agreement, executed in 2020, has undergone prior amendments to address additional design needs, site modifications, and structural considerations.
