From David Volz
The Fort Lauderdale City Commission finalized the hiring of the new city manager and approved several large contracts during a recent meeting.
The Commission adopted a resolution appointing Rickelle Williams as City Manager of Fort Lauderdale, effective April 2, 2025. The resolution approves an employment contract, setting Williams’ initial annual salary at $350,000 and outlining benefits, severance terms, and residency requirements. The contract has a four-year term, expiring on April 1, 2029, unless renewed. The agreement also includes provisions for professional development, retirement contributions, and a longevity bonus to encourage long-term tenure.
“The 4-1 vote in favor of the appointment and contract is reflective of the city’s setting high expectations for Rickelle Williams. In addition, the contract’s incentives are proof that we are looking for a long-term relationship. I look forward to working with Williams and will do everything to ensure her success,” said Vice-Mayor Steven Glassman.
The Commission approved Change Order No. 22 in the amount of $1,123,206.46 for construction management services related to the New Police Headquarters project with Moss & Associates, LLC. This change order addresses the repairs required based on the findings of the third-party engineer’s report from Wiss, Janney, Elstner Associates, Inc. (WJE), which was received on December 31, 2024. The repairs are related to errors identified in the foundation and first-floor superstructure of the building.
The Commission approved an agreement with H.A. Contracting Corp. for Bass Park improvements in the amount of $6,410,000. This contract includes the construction of a new 9,500 square foot recreation center with pool access, a restroom building, fitness stations, landscaping, parking improvements, and other enhancements. The work also includes sidewalk, curb, and pavement improvements, as well as an interactive water feature. This project, which is funded through the Parks General Obligation Bond. is part of the City’s ongoing efforts to enhance public spaces and support community initiatives, aligned with the Press Play Fort Lauderdale 2029 Strategic Plan.
The Commission approved a First Amendment to the Comprehensive Agreement with My Park Initiative, LLC, modifying plans for improvements at Snyder Park. The original agreement required My Park Initiative, LLC to rehabilitate Building 1 for Parks and Recreation staff, but severe damage from the April 2023 flood made renovation unfeasible. Under the revised agreement, My Park Initiative, LLC will demolish the structure and construct a new facility with equivalent functionality. The City will provide an additional contribution up to $3,900,000 toward the project, with the City receiving $400,000 back through annual revenue contributions from My Park Initiative, LLC.
The Commission approved a resolution accepting $88,051,000 in Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) funds to support recovery and mitigation efforts following the April 2023 flood. The funding, allocated by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, will be used for housing reconstruction, public facility improvements, business recovery, and mitigation initiatives. The City will develop an Administrative Action Plan to manage the grant.
The Commission adopted a resolution authorizing the City Manager to approve a Scholarship Fund Agreement with the Broward Education Foundation, allocating $13,300 to fund twelve scholarships for students from six Fort Lauderdale public high schools. Two students from each school will be awarded a scholarship, which will cover 30 credit hours for Florida Pre-Paid scholarships. The total scholarship value, including fees, is $38,098.80. This initiative is part of the City’s commitment to supporting educational opportunities for local students.
