From David Volz
Fort Lauderdale now as a new Deputy City Manager.
During a recent meeting, the Commission approved the appointment of Christopher “Chris” Cooper as Deputy City Manager effective December 8, 2025. Mr. Cooper currently serves as Assistant City Manager and will continue overseeing the City’s external services portfolio, which includes the Community Redevelopment Agency, Community Services, Development Services, Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport, and Neighbor Support. In this role, he will also serve as acting City Manager when needed and provide leadership across departments to support Commission priorities and resident services. Mr. Cooper has worked for the City since 2018 and previously served as Director of Development Services before becoming Assistant City Manager.
The Commission approved an agreement with Slice Wireless Solutions, Inc. to launch a Wireless Broadband Pilot Project that will bring free, reliable Wi-Fi to an area bordered by NW 17 Avenue, NW 12 Avenue, Sunrise Boulevard, and Sistrunk Boulevard. The project will use existing light pole infrastructure to create a wireless mesh network, expanding digital access for residents where home internet service is often limited. The project is funded through the federal CDBG-CV program, which supports COVID-19 recovery efforts for low- to moderate-income communities, and includes four optional one-year renewals for subscription services.
The Commission approved a $127,842 grant agreement with the Areawide Council on Aging of Broward County, Inc. to support senior nutrition programs. The funding will help provide approximately 50,000 home-delivered meals for an estimated 125 homebound seniors in Fort Lauderdale, along with 25,000 congregate meals served at sites throughout Broward County. These programs support year-round residents aged sixty and older by improving access to nutritious meals and essential services.
The Commission approved a $100,000 grant agreement with the Early Learning Coalition of Broward County to help provide subsidized childcare for approximately 2,500 income-eligible Fort Lauderdale children. The funding supports working parents and guardians by expanding access to affordable, high-quality childcare and helps match federal and state grants to increase services for Fort Lauderdale families.
