From David Volz
The City of Fort Lauderdale has a new attorney.
During a recent meeting, the City Commission unanimously selected Shari L. McCartney for the City Attorney position following interviews with three candidates recommended by the City Attorney Search Committee. The three finalists were Paul G. Bangel, Shari L. McCartney, and Angela “Angel” Rosenberg.
The Commission also approved a motion for the Mayor to lead discussions with Ms. McCartney regarding proposed employment terms and bring a contract forward for future Commission consideration.
The Commission approved an agreement with David Mancini & Sons, Inc. for construction of the Victoria Park Stormwater Improvements Project under the Fortify Lauderdale program. The $32.2 million contract includes drainage upgrades, utility relocations, landscape and swale restoration, and road resurfacing to enhance flood protection and resilience throughout the neighborhood. Construction is expected to begin in early 2026 and take approximately 18 to 24 months to complete.
The Commission approved a resolution authorizing the City Manager to execute an agreement with Florida Power & Light Company for the installation of new LED streetlights in the Melrose Park neighborhood. The $865,887 agreement covers construction and installation costs, with an estimated $35,939 in monthly maintenance and service fees. The project will install 555 decorative light fixtures throughout the neighborhood using underground directional drilling to reduce disruption. The initiative is expected to be completed by the end of year 2026.
The Commission approved the purchase of a new Mobile Emergency Response Support (MERS) Portable Tower Trailer from Technology International, Inc. for $105,510. The tower supports public safety radio communications used by Police, Fire, and other City departments during emergency operations. The new trailer replaces an existing unit purchased in 2009 and ensures continued reliability for mission-critical communications across the City.
The Commission approved a $346,157 increase to the consultant services agreement with HDR Engineering, Inc. for the Melrose Manors Neighborhood Stormwater Improvements Project under the Fortify Lauderdale initiative. The additional funding will cover design test holes and survey work needed to complete the final design phase and identify potential underground utility conflicts. The project will enhance flood protection and support long-term resilience in the Melrose Manors neighborhood.
The Commission accepted $1.36 million in federal funding through the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Assistance to Firefighters Grant program to support a new High-Rise Incident Management Training Program for Fort Lauderdale Fire Rescue. The program will provide 32 hours of specialized instruction per firefighter over a 24-month period to improve operational readiness, decision-making, and safety during high-rise emergencies. The City will contribute a local cash match of $123,701, with training scheduled across Fiscal Years 2026 and 2027.
