Coral Springs hosts EarthFest
From David Volz
The City of Coral Springs hosted EarthFest at the Sawgrass Nature Center. Hundreds of individuals and families got together to learn about the some of the nature education programs and organizations. And they could receive a free tree for their yards. They could also see some of the native species at the Nature center including a tortoise, snakes and an alligator. Coral Springs Vice Mayor Shawn Cerra came to the event and enjoyed seeing some of the plants that were available. “This is a very nice community event and I am glad that people were able to come, get a plant and learn about nature,” he said.
Maurice Permenter of Coral Springs was available to educate people and families about the various native trees and plants. “I am always learning about trees, plants and wildlife,” he said. “This is a nice event.”
Sandy Lobel, a Coral Springs Ambassador enjoyed the chance to meet with residents and share the positive aspects of the City.
Jeri Decker, president of the Garden Club of Coral Springs was pleased to have the opportunity to meet with residents and share tips on gardening.
Fort Lauderdale Commission meeting and projects
From David Volz
The Fort Lauderdale Commission moved forward on several projects during a recent meeting.
The Commission advanced a proposal for the development of a 16-story building in Flagler Village.
The City Commission approved a resolution that authorizes the issuance of a development permit for a proposed 16-story mixed-use and mixed-income development. The project, to be located at 600 N. Andrews Avenue, would consist of 263 residential units and 2,394 square feet of commercial use. Of the 263 residential units, 53 units will be restricted to residents whose household income does not exceed 50% of the Broward County median family income (MFI), 97 units will be restricted to residents whose household income does not exceed 120% of the MFI. The affordability restrictions are for 75 years, the length of the land use lease agreement. The development deviates from the Downtown Master Plan standards for maximum podium height, maximum building height, minimum building tower step-back, and maximum floorplate size.
The City Commission approved a motion to terminate an expiring piggyback agreement with Circuit Transit, Inc., and enter into a similar agreement with the same company. Circuit partnered with the City to create an alternate transit operation called the LauderGO! Micro Mover, a free, eco-friendly pilot program. The service recently expanded its area of operation and currently averages more than 10,000 riders each month. The new agreement has service-cost reductions, an increase in revenue sharing, and continues with the same general operating parameters with the funding that was appropriated in January 2023. Additionally, the agreement allows for one dedicated Circuit vehicle to operate in the Galt Mile area through the end of September 2023.
The City Commission authorized the use of DRV PNK Stadium for the Florida Beach Bowl, a postseason college football game that will feature one Historically Black College or University (HBCU) and one mid-major Division One football program. The game is scheduled for December 28, 2023.
The City Commission approved a motion for turf grass maintenance in all four quadrants of the City (NW, SW, NE, and SE). The motion allows for an agreement with VisualScape, Inc., for an initial one-year contract in the amount of $1.58 million and authorizes the City Manager to approve three additional one-year renewal options.
