From David Volz
Work is beginning to move forward on the new Fort Lauderdale city hall project.
During a recent meeting the Commission adopted a resolution expressing its intent to enter into a comprehensive agreement with Meridiam Infrastructure North America for the design, development, financing, construction, operation, and maintenance of a new City Hall facility, following an unsolicited proposal submitted by the company. The resolution also provided a 60-day period for the City to receive other proposals for the same project.
The Commission adopted a resolution authorizing the City Manager to execute a Temporary Beach License, Outdoor Event Agreement, or both, with the Florida Panthers Hockey Club or the Florida Panthers Foundation to support a potential 2025 post-season celebration in Fort Lauderdale. The resolution includes up to $200,000 in in-kind City services, subject to the completion and approval of required applications and agreements. If held, the event would be coordinated with the Florida Panthers and could take place in June or July 2025.
The Commission approved an Interlocal Agreement with Broward County for the NatureScape Irrigation Services Program and Residential Irrigation Rebate Program, totaling $165,786.55 over five years. The programs aim to reduce water consumption by providing efficiency evaluations at commercial and municipal sites, as well as rebates of $200 to $600 for residents upgrading their irrigation systems. The City has partnered with the County on these programs for 15 years, achieving an average annual savings of 5.2 million gallons. The programs support the City’s water conservation goals under its Water Use Permit and strategic initiatives for sustainability and resilience.
The Commission approved a license agreement with Atlantic Hotel Group Assets, LLC to allow the sale, service, and consumption of food and alcoholic beverages on the public beach directly in front of the Atlantic Hotel and Spa, located at 601 North Fort Lauderdale Beach Boulevard. This marks the hotel’s first renewal under Section 8-55.4 of the City Code, which permits eligible hotels to apply for beachside service. The license includes an annual fee based on the number of guest rooms, totaling $3,100 for 124 rooms, and is valid through December 31, 2025.
