Fort Lauderdale may get a new historical designation
From David Volz
Fort Lauderdale City staff provided a presentation regarding the potential designation of the Hardy Park Historic District. As originally proposed in a Neighbor Presentation by Reed Tolber, the district would include three structures that are currently designated as historic landmarks; South Side School, the South Side Fire Station, and the Coca-Cola Bottling Plant, as well as the vacant lot northwest of Florence C. Hardy Park, Hardy Park, and the right-of-way in the intersection of South Andrews Avenue and SW 7th Street. An evaluation by City staff found that the area could qualify for designation as a historic district; however, the designation would exclude the vacant lot at the northwest corner and the right-of-way. The City Commission will further discuss the matter during the October 18 conference meeting
Fort Lauderdale Commission approves major contracts
From David Volz
The Fort Lauderdale City Commission approved large purchases during a recent meeting.
The Commission approved the purchase of proprietary items for the estimated amount of $6,577,000. The Department of Public Works relies on a variety of equipment throughout the year to meet service demands related to water distribution, wastewater collection, stormwater system infrastructures, and treatment facilities. The Utilities Division operates two water treatment facilities, one regional wastewater treatment facility, 186 sanitary sewer pump stations, and four stormwater stations and maintains over 1,400 miles of underground infrastructure. Each year, over 14 billion gallons of potable water are delivered to approximately 250,000 neighbors and visitors. Additionally, over 14 billion gallons of wastewater are collected and treated. The Sustainability Division operates and maintains the stormwater management system, which includes 8,903 catch basins, 1,039 outfalls, and 184 miles of storm pipe.
The Commission approved an agreement awarding a contract in the amount of $641,900 to Aquatic Control Group Inc. for the landscaping and maintenance of stormwater facilities at River Oaks Stormwater Preserve and Melrose Drainage Ditch and authorized the City Manager to approve two one-year renewal options. The contractor is required to follow the Public Works’ Stormwater Operations Program which requires mowing, and line trimming, litter removal, weed control (mechanical and chemical), tree trimming and removal, and the removal of any illegally dumped debris.
The Commission adopted a resolution changing the secondary street name of NW 18th Street to “Vivian Dempsey Path” between NW 6th Avenue and 9th Avenue. Vivian Dempsey was a resident of 67 years and an active member of the South Middle River Civic Association (SMRCA). She served as chair of the neighborhood’s Beautification Committee and was responsible for planting over 1,500 trees throughout SMRCA, earning her the nickname “The Tree Lady”. Her known commitment to the neighborhood is the reason why community members wanted to memorialize Ms. Dempsey’s legacy.
The Commission approved a motion to accept a Specific Cultural Grant in the amount of $25,000 from the State of Florida Division of Arts and Culture. The grant funds specific cultural projects, exhibitions, or series. The grant money will support the City of Fort Lauderdale’s Jazz Brunch live performance music series. The Sunday Jazz Brunch is ideal for relaxing and enjoying Fort Lauderdale’s scenic Riverwalk. The free, live outdoor concert series features the area’s best local jazz artists, where residents and visitors can listen to music on three different stages on the first Sunday of each month from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
