Public Meetings - Broward County, Florida

County Mayor Bogan led a workshop focused on return on investment, speed of execution, and economics. The commission discussed four major topics: the new county headquarters building, the feasibility of creating a county law enforcement agency for the airport and seaport, the return on investment of the FITSE international trade program, and a brief discussion on affordable housing. No formal votes were taken, but clear consensus emerged on several items. Discussion Items - New County Headquarters (Gore Building): Mayor Bogan, expressing frustration with years of delays, advocated for quickly buying or renting existing office space rather than building new. Commissioner Fisher countered that building on the already-purchased Gore property was the most straightforward path, citing complications with acquiring tenant-occupied buildings. Commissioner Udean strongly supported building, emphasizing the need for a government building that “speaks to people” and the long-term cost savings of owning versus renting. Commissioner Geller agreed with owning but wanted to see data on whether spreading out departments would be efficient. Commissioner Furr favored building on the Gore site to avoid disjointed operations. Staff (Monica, Lenny, Isimi) provided updates: the Gore building demolition is expected to start mid-2026 after asbestos remediation, with a five-year timeline to completion. A P3 option is being evaluated as part of a full deliverable due February 1. The commission agreed to a dedicated workshop on February 17 to receive the full presentation and to add monthly progress updates to the dashboard. - Law Enforcement at Airport and Seaport: Mayor Bogan proposed creating a county police department for the airport and seaport, arguing it could save $10–30 million annually compared to the current contract with BSO. He drew a parallel to law firms: using experienced, trained officers at lower rates. Commissioner Udean and others agreed, noting it was a financial issue, not a reflection on the sheriff. Commissioner Geller supported the idea but wanted a proper study. Staff (Mark Gale) reported that a consultant has been engaged and will deliver a feasibility study in approximately 14 weeks (end of April). The scope initially covers the airport, but at the request of commissioners, it will also include the seaport and possibly transportation security. Commissioner Fisher asked to include BSO's role in transportation. Commissioner Davis wanted to ensure the study considers capital needs (e.g., vehicles, facilities). Commissioner Geller also suggested a separate review of seaport security gates to alleviate traffic. - Economic Development / FITSE Program: Mayor Bogan criticized the FITSE international trade show, stating that the county has spent $1.5 million over 10 years with minimal return for Broward businesses. He cited examples from the ROI report that highlighted foreign businesses rather than local ones. He argued that the money could be better spent on local small business programs like a “shark tank” or mentor program. Commissioner Rogers defended FITSE, noting it helps small businesses and provides cultural exchanges. Commissioner Davis said FITSE can improve but should not be eliminated. Commissioner Geller wanted better, quantified ROI data (contracts signed, jobs created) rather than contacts and MOUs. Commissioner Fisher urged staff to be honest about whether the program is working. Commissioner Furr emphasized the need to align with education and workforce development for local youth. Commissioner McKenzie called for a deeper dive into the economic development office’s processes and a reimagining of FITSE. The commission reached a consensus: staff will provide a detailed ROI report on FITSE by the next commission meeting, focusing on Broward businesses that obtained contracts and jobs created. The report should compare the $150,000 annual cost to alternative uses. - Affordable Housing: Commissioner Davis asked whether the county proactively seeks out deals (e.g., partnering with owners of distressed strip centers) rather than waiting for developers. Staff responded that they are primarily reactive and do not build their own affordable housing projects, but they do purchase distressed properties and offer them to developers. Commissioner Udean argued that increasing market-rate supply is the most effective way to address affordability, while Commissioner Davis and Senator Rich emphasized the need for affordable housing given the county’s high cost of living. Staff noted that the Live Local Act and Geller Amendment have spurred many deals, with the county closing about one deal per month. No formal action was taken, but the discussion highlighted the need for a separate workshop on affordable housing. Key Outcomes - New Headquarters: Direction to staff to proceed with the Gore building project, with a full workshop on February 17, 2026, to present timelines, costs, P3 options, and monetization of the current building. Monthly progress updates to be added to the commission dashboard. - Airport/Seaport Law Enforcement: Consultant study underway, scope expanded to include seaport and transportation. Report expected by end of April 2026. A separate review of seaport security gates was suggested. - FITSE / Economic Development: Staff to provide a detailed ROI report by the next commission meeting, including specific contracts and job creation for Broward businesses. The commission will consider whether to reallocate funds to local small business programs. - Affordable Housing: No formal action; the commission agreed that a dedicated workshop is needed to discuss proactive strategies, supply-side policies, and the impact of the Live Local Act and Geller Amendment.

The Independent Transportation Surtax Oversight Board met on December 12, 2025, at 9:30 AM in Plantation, FL. The meeting covered public testimony on paratransit safety, departmental updates, funding allocations, a new flood sensor project, and performance metrics. The board also honored outgoing Chair Alan Hooper. Public Comments & Testimony - Kimberly (representing disabled community): Expressed gratitude for earlier board engagement, reporting that the paratransit audit commenced two weeks ago and a community work group has been formed with Broward County Transit (BCT). She stressed ongoing safety risks for visually impaired riders but noted commitments from BCT to improve complaint handling and driver accountability. - Tanil Brown (Reuben Stacey Studio for Innovation and Education): Reinforced concerns about inconsistent driver protocols, unsafe drop-offs, and lack of guidance for visually impaired riders. Urged the board to treat these as preventable safety issues and act urgently. - Jennifer Wilson was listed but did not attend. Discussion Items - Transportation Department Updates (Corey Cuff Lonergan): Reported receipt of a $20 million FTA low-emission grant (40% surtax match) for 24 new buses and training. Ridership for FY2025 was 26 million system-wide (23M fixed route, 1.15M paratransit, 1.4M community shuttle, 100K rider’s choice, 12K late-shift connect). Overall ridership decreased 1.3% year-over-year, but late-shift connect increased 282%. The paratransit contract (ending December 2026) is being reimagined with a focus on quality over cost; the CBE goal may drop from 30% to 10% due to limited eligible firms. The Primo light rail program is proceeding; a $300 million federal grant application was submitted for the commuter rail south segment (46% of cost). Updates on the comprehensive operational analysis (COA) were deferred—staff cited ongoing commissioner briefings and promised a public release soon. Board members questioned costs, coordination among mega-projects, and the need for a mode study (elevated vs. at-grade). - Office of Economic & Small Business Development (Maribel Feliciano): Presented the quarterly CBE goal attainment report. 117 county projects ($1 billion) reviewed, average CBE goal 29%; 151 municipal projects ($416 million) reviewed, average goal 33%. Awarded projects: 69 county (average 39% CBE attainment), 56 municipal (average 40% CBE attainment). Economic impact from 125 awarded projects: $643.5 million in direct payments to vendors, 3,000 direct jobs, $258 million in wages, and total impact of $980 million with over 5,000 jobs. Highlighted examples where primes exceeded CBE goals (e.g., 100% CBE prime on some projects). - Public Works & Environmental Services (Leonard Vialpando): Introduced the Rapid Alert and Information Network (RAIN) flood sensor pilot. Sensors installed in flood-prone intersections measure rainfall, soil moisture, and water depth; data will be shared publicly and with Google Maps/Waze. Initial pilot cost $500,000 (surtax-funded). Next phase (FY2026) seeks $600,000 for equipment; cities will pay for installation and $1,000/year maintenance. AI integration planned for predictive flood warnings. Board members debated surtax funding eligibility vs. safety/mobility benefits. - FY2026 Formula-Based Funding Updates (Gretchen Cassini): 21 of 30 participating municipalities submitted applications for $30 million available. Most requested rehabilitation and maintenance; six microtransit programs requested ($3 million total). Staff is reviewing eligibility and potential conflicts, expecting agreements in early 2026. - Internal Dashboard & Metrics: Cassini demonstrated new programmatic and financial dashboards (public and internal). Board requested breakdowns by project type (sidewalks, bike lanes, etc.) and by municipality (including county projects in cities). Staff will refine the tool and bring a more detailed version to a future workshop. - Performance Metrics (Ray McElroy): Proposed a comprehensive list of metrics including pedestrian/bicycle fatalities, bike lane installations (protected vs. painted), sidewalk installations, bus shelters installed, and more. Board generally supported the idea but acknowledged data collection challenges. Staff will coordinate with BCT and public works to gather existing data and report back at a future meeting. Key Outcomes - Minutes Approved: Motion to approve minutes of October 24, 2025, meeting passed unanimously. - Paratransit Contract: Board took note of the planned RFP with revised priorities (quality over cost, lower CBE goal) and encouraged sensitivity training for all transit drivers. - COA Update: Ongoing; board urged timely completion and public release. - Flood Sensor Project: Concept accepted; staff directed to bring a formal funding request for the next phase. - Performance Metrics: Consensus to proceed with gathering data; staff to report on feasibility and cadence. - Board Transition: Outgoing Chair Alan Hooper was honored with a special presentation for his leadership since the board’s inception. - Next Meeting: February 6, 2026, with anticipated agenda items including Sheridan Street capacity expansion, Broward Next land use plan, bicycle/pedestrian data visualizations, and an updated COA discussion.

The Broward County Board of County Commissioners met on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, from 10:09 a.m. to 1:28 p.m. in Room 422 of the Governmental Center. Eight commissioners were present (Commissioner Beam Furr absent). The meeting included a consent agenda, public hearings, quasi-judicial hearings, and regular agenda items. Key topics included paratransit safety, conservation easements, elevator repair ordinances, land use changes, zoning reclassifications, and several franchise renewals. Consent Calendar - Items 1–51 were approved en bloc, with the following pulled for separate consideration: Item 4 (by public), Item 33 (by Commissioner Fisher), Item 51 (by Mayor Bogen). Item 28 was withdrawn. All consent items passed 8–0 unless noted. Public Comments & Testimony - Item 4 – Public Transportation Agency Safety Plan: Arethia Wimberley and Tanil Brown, representing paratransit riders, raised concerns about driver accountability, complaint resolution, and safety for visually impaired riders. They requested stronger oversight and rider-centered safety standards. - Item 75 – Delegation (Paratransit): Jolene Mullins (South Florida Hunger Coalition) and paratransit consumer Jennifer Wilson testified about dropped calls, unsafe drop-offs, broken seat belts, propane smells, and lack of follow-up on complaints. The company president and county staff acknowledged issues and promised investigation. The County Auditor noted an ongoing audit of the paratransit complaint process. Discussion Items - Item 33 – Conservation Easement Release (Alpha 250): Commissioner Fisher explained the 25-acre parcel in Pompano Beach had FAA deed restrictions requiring release to allow housing redevelopment. Approved as amended with additional material 33-A. Vote: 8–0. - Item 51 – Elevator Repairs: Mayor Bogen requested an ordinance to penalize slow elevator repairs affecting seniors and disabled residents. Commissioners shared stories of prolonged outages. Approved 8–0; County Attorney directed to draft ordinance. - Item 60 – Environmentally Sensitive Lands Map (Pompano Air Park): City of Pompano Beach and county staff explained FAA preemption forced removal of ESL restrictions. Commissioners Fisher and Udine spoke to necessity. Approved Resolution No. 2025-487 (Ordinance 2025-44). Vote: 8–0. - Items 67–70 – Ordinance Amendments: - 67: Business regulations (approved). - 68: Battery recycling – amended to delay enforcement to March 1, 2026 (Ordinance 2025-46). Vote: 8–0. - 69: Occupational licensing and restitution trust fund (approved). - 70: Ethics gift restrictions (sponsored by Mayor Bogen, approved). - Items 71–72 – Land Use Amendments (Broadview Park): Commissioner Geller presented the plan for 474 units (including affordable housing) after community negotiations. Supported by Commissioners Rich, McKenzie, and Rogers. Both approved 8–0. - Item 73 – Rezoning (BMSD): Residential rezoning at 4590 Peters Road. Approved 8–0. - Item 74 – Rezoning (Waste Management Landfill): Rezoning from PUD/M-4 to A-6 for landfill expansion in Coconut Creek district. Mayor Bogen voted no, citing community concerns. Passed 7–1. - Item 77 – Janitorial Services Ranking (FLL): CBE firm McKenzie Cleaning objected to ranking behind non-CBE Sunshine Cleaning. County counsel confirmed rules followed; Sunshine had 16% point advantage. Approved 7–0 (Commissioners Furr and Geller absent). Commissioner Rogers requested a workshop on CBE program education. - Item 83 – Mayor/Vice Mayor Selection Process: Commissioner Rogers proposed exploring a district rotation to reduce politics. Discussion only; no action taken. Key Outcomes - Paratransit Audit: Auditor Melton confirmed an ongoing audit of paratransit complaints. County staff directed to improve oversight and follow-up. - Elevator Ordinance: County Attorney to draft penalty ordinance for slow elevator repairs. - Conservation Easements: Approved release (Alpha 250) and new easement (Tradewinds Park). - Franchise Renewals: Items 52–58 (Port Everglades steamship agent and waste removal franchises) all approved unanimously. - Project Dashboard: Mayor Bogen introduced a project tracking list; TOPS paratransit service added per Commissioner Rich. - Port Everglades Record: County Administrator reported record-breaking fiscal year 2025 across cruise, cargo, and petroleum. - Employee Retention: Mayor Bogen requested inclusion of employee retention provisions in port crane maintenance contracts, similar to airport contracts.

The Broward County Planning Council held its monthly meeting on December 4, 2025, at the Broward County Government Center in Fort Lauderdale. The meeting was called to order at approximately 10:00 a.m. under the leadership of the Council Chair. The council addressed three public hearing items, including a land use plan amendment in the City of Water Hill, a text amendment clarifying the environmentally sensitive lands map, and a text amendment deleting policies related to environmental justice. The consent agenda was approved unanimously, and the council received reports from the legislative liaison and the executive director. Consent Calendar - The consent agenda was approved as presented with additions and changes, including excused absence requests for Mayor Brunson, Mayor Gomez, Councilmember Horland, Mayor Rayleigh, Mayor Castillo, and Mr. Rosinoff. Motion by Mayor Harden, second by Mayor Levy. Passed unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Audrey Fessick, Pompano Beach City Commissioner (District 1): Addressed the council regarding item PH2, the text amendment on environmentally sensitive lands (ESL). She respectfully requested that the planning council require a second public hearing for the amendment. Commissioner Fessick argued that the amendment could affect how ESL boundaries are interpreted and removals justified, and that a second hearing would ensure full review by affected municipalities, environmental agencies, and the public. She noted that Pompano Beach has ongoing land use and environmental map amendments involving ESL considerations, including the arboretum at the Pompano Beach Air Park, which contains imperiled pine scrub habitat and protected species. Discussion Items - Council Report (Andy Moretus): Reported that upcoming Florida legislative bills will significantly impact local governments, including a restrictive impact fee bill and proposals related to Senate Bill 180. He indicated active legislative activity ahead. - Executive Director's Report (Ms. Blake Boy): Updated the council on the Broward Next Steering Committee’s progress. The committee has bifurcated proposals: focusing on incentive-based pieces and holding resiliency policy updates in abeyance due to Senate Bill 180. A public workshop is scheduled for December 10, 2025, with another in mid-January 2026. A first public hearing on the incentive side is anticipated between February and April 2026. - PH1 – Land Use Plan Amendment (City of Water Hill): Proposed amendment to change approximately 132.6 acres from commercial recreation (within a dashed line area) to residential. The existing dashed line area allows 9,072 units, with 1,142 unbuilt units. The applicant seeks to use 888 of those unbuilt units on the subject parcels. Staff analysis found sufficient facilities and services, including a commitment to dedicate open space for a trailway and a semi-public park (at least 10 acres). No public speakers signed up; the applicant did not present. Motion by Commissioner Fisher, second by Mayor Levy. Passed unanimously. - PH2 – Text Amendment to Policy 2.23.2 (Environmentally Sensitive Lands): Staff explained that the amendment clarifies the process for the environmentally sensitive lands (ESL) map, emphasizing it is for planning purposes only. Mitigation and conservation occur through the county’s licensing and permitting process (Land Development Code), not through the county plan. The map will be updated every two years based on data from permitting. The amendment does not change criteria or the map itself. The council heard Commissioner Fessick’s comment requesting a second public hearing. Staff responded that the planning council is the first step; transmittal to the state and county commission provides further review. The motion was to move the item (approve). Motion by Ryan Greenberg, second by Mayor Harden. Passed unanimously. - PH3 – Text Amendment Deleting Environmental Justice Policies: This amendment was expedited through the Broward Next Steering Committee to achieve compliance with Florida statutes, as directed by the county attorney’s office. It deletes two policies related to environmental justice adopted in 2017. No public speakers signed in. Motion by Mayor Harden, second by Ryan Greenberg. Passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - All three public hearing items (PH1, PH2, PH3) were approved unanimously by voice vote. - The consent agenda was approved unanimously. - The council noted that Mr. Rosanoff joined the meeting online after the votes and confirmed his vote in favor. - The January 22, 2026 meeting was rescheduled to January 29, 2026 due to a scheduling conflict with the county commission. - The next steering committee meeting will be determined based on room availability in January. - The meeting adjourned after brief closing remarks for the holiday season.

The Broward County Board of County Commissioners held its annual reorganizational meeting on Tuesday, November 18, 2025, beginning at 10:17 AM and adjourning at 11:39 AM. The meeting included the State of the County address, election of a new Mayor and Vice-Mayor, approval of the consent agenda, and several reports and announcements. All nine commissioners were present: Vice-Mayor Mark D. Bogen, Commissioner Lamar P. Fisher, Mayor Beam Furr, Commissioner Steve Geller, Commissioner Robert McKinzie, Commissioner Nan H. Rich, Commissioner Hazelle P. Rogers, Commissioner Alexandra P. Davis, and Commissioner Michael Udine. Consent Calendar - Item 2: Motion to approve the Broward County Board of County Commissioners’ meeting schedule for calendar year 2026. Approved unanimously (9-0). - Item 3: Motion to amend the meeting calendar to reflect changes to the December schedule. Approved unanimously (9-0). Public Comments & Testimony - Steve Sachs (former MLB player): Testified that the Broward Heart Project’s free heart scan saved his life. He was asymptomatic but found to have 95–99% blockage in four major arteries, requiring a quadruple bypass. He thanked the commission for funding the program. - Barry and Amy Smith (via video): Barry Smith stated that while their hearts were fine, the scan found a spot on his wife’s lung that turned out to be stage 1 lung cancer. She is now cancer-free. They urged others to get the scan. Discussion Items - State of the County Address (Outgoing Mayor Furr): Delivered a speech highlighting challenges (federal and state pressures, DOGE audit request, impacts on tourism) and successes (new convention center, record cruise passenger numbers, sand bypass project, tri-county transit interoperability, solid waste master plan). He emphasized Broward’s resilience and strong metrics (low unemployment, high bond rating, wage growth). - Election of Mayor: Commissioner Fisher nominated Vice-Mayor Mark Bogen. Seconded. Voted 9-0. Mayor Bogen was sworn in by his brother, Dr. Steve Bogen. - Election of Vice-Mayor: Mayor Bogen nominated Commissioner Robert McKinzie. Seconded. Voted 9-0. Vice-Mayor McKinzie was sworn in. - Mayor Bogen's Announcements: - Broward Heart Project: Announced a $1 million donation over five years from the Florida Panthers Foundation (Viola family) to continue free heart scans. Also noted a new contract with Cleveland Clinic to lead the program. Reported that 7,000 asymptomatic people were scanned; 4,000 needed medical intervention (medication, stents, open-heart surgery) and 350 had other issues found (e.g., lung cancer). - Bread Promise: A new initiative where for $5, a loaf of fresh bread is delivered to homeless shelters and food pantries in Broward County. Mayor Bogen committed 100 loaves/month; the bakery will match that. Website: breadpromise.com. All funds go directly to the nonprofit (Broward Partnership for the Homeless) and then to the bakery; no administrative fees. - Broward Business Council: Announced creation of a quarterly council to gather input from the business community, partnering with Tim Petrillo (Workshop), Bob Swindell (Alliance), and Dan Lindblade (Greater Fort Lauderdale Chamber). - County Administrator’s Report (Monica Cepero): Congratulated new Mayor and Vice-Mayor. Announced that CEO/Aviation Director Mark Gale received the Ultimate CEO award from the South Florida Business Journal. - Mayor and Commissioner Reports: - Board appointments: Mayor Bogen submitted a list of potential board appointments for commissioners to review and indicate interest. - Birthday recognition: Mayor Bogen led the commission in singing “Happy Birthday” to Commissioner Fisher (birthday November 19). - Triathlon: Mayor Bogen noted he would discuss the “No Sweat Triathlon” at the next meeting. Key Outcomes - Mayor Elected: Mark Bogen elected Mayor for a one-year term (9-0 vote). - Vice-Mayor Elected: Robert McKinzie elected Vice-Mayor for a one-year term (9-0 vote). - Consent Agenda Approved: Items 1–3 (board appointments – none, meeting schedule, calendar amendment) passed unanimously. - Broward Heart Project: Received $1 million pledge from Florida Panthers Foundation; new partnership with Cleveland Clinic. - Bread Promise: Launched; website active; administrative structure set with Broward Partnership for the Homeless. - Broward Business Council: To be established with quarterly meetings; first meeting to be scheduled. - Next Meeting: Mayor Bogen indicated he will announce additional items at the next regular meeting.

The Broward County Commission convened to elect a new mayor for a one-year term, following the Broward County Charter. Commissioner Mark Bogan (District 2) was nominated and elected 8-1, then sworn in. After the election, Mayor Bogan delivered remarks announcing several initiatives and expressing gratitude to colleagues, staff, family, and community partners. Consent Calendar - No consent calendar items were discussed. Public Comments & Testimony - Steve Sachs, former Major League Baseball player (17 years, including Los Angeles Dodgers), testified that a free heart scan through the Broward Heart Project revealed 95–99% blockage in his four major arteries, leading to a quadruple bypass. He stated the test saved his life and thanked the commission for funding the program. He noted that his father died of the same condition in 1983, and he chose to have surgery on June 10 to change the family narrative from death to renewal. - A pre-recorded video from Barry and Amy Smith described that Amy Smith had no symptoms but a free heart scan detected stage one lung cancer. She had surgery and is now cancer‑free; they urged others to get tested. Discussion Items - Election of Mayor: Commissioner Fisher nominated Vice Mayor Mark Bogan for the office of Mayor, highlighting his service since January 2015, previous terms as vice mayor (2017‑18) and mayor (2018‑19), and his accomplishments (Broward Heart Project, “ban the box” ordinance, PFAS water testing, elevator safety regulations, exemptions for disabled first responders and surviving spouses, fraud protection program). The motion was seconded, and a voice vote passed 8–1 to elect Bogan (one commissioner opposed). - Swearing‑In: Mayor‑elect Bogan was sworn in by his brother, Dr. Steve Bogan (MD, PhD). His wife Kathleen, son Michael, and sister‑in‑law joined him. He received the gavel. - Mayor Bogan’s Remarks and Announcements: - Thanked fellow commissioners, County Administrator Monica Cepero, County Attorney Drew Myers, and other staff. - Announced that the Broward Heart Project will be led by Cleveland Clinic (contract approved at previous meeting). - Announced a $1 million donation over five years from the Florida Panthers Foundation (Viola family) to fund free heart scans. - Noted that HeartFlow, a company providing scan analysis, is also involved. - Reported that out of 7,000 people scanned, 4,000 needed medical intervention (medication, open‑heart surgery, stents) and an additional 350 had other medical issues detected. - Introduced the “Bread Promise” (thebreadpromise.com): a program where a $5 donation provides a fresh loaf of bread delivered to homeless shelters and food pantries via the Broward Partnership for the Homeless (501c3). He committed 100 loaves per month, matched by the bakery, and encouraged community participation. - Announced the creation of a “Broward Business Council,” a quarterly forum for business input from chambers and stakeholders, starting with Tim Petrillo, Bob Swindell (Alliance), and Dan Lindblade (Greater Fort Lauderdale Chamber). Commissioners are invited to participate. Key Outcomes - Election: Mark Bogan was elected Mayor of Broward County by an 8‑1 vote and was sworn in. - Broward Heart Project: Cleveland Clinic will lead the program; a $1 million donation from the Florida Panthers Foundation will fund continuous free scans. - Bread Promise: A new food‑insecurity initiative launched; 100% of donations go to the bakery through a nonprofit partner. - Broward Business Council: A new quarterly advisory group to gather input from the business community, to begin in early 2026. - The next meeting will include further announcements from the Mayor.

This brief meeting focused on the nomination and election of the Vice Mayor for Broward County. After calling for nominations, commissioners unanimously selected Commissioner Robert McKenzie to serve as Vice Mayor. The oath of office was administered, and McKenzie delivered short remarks emphasizing continued work. Discussion Items - Nomination for Vice Mayor: A commissioner nominated Robert McKenzie, reading a brief biography highlighting his background as a Fort Lauderdale native, St. Thomas Aquinas High School and Bethune-Cookman University graduate, former Fort Lauderdale District 3 commissioner, and current county commissioner known for efforts in housing, port and airport expansion, and economic opportunities. - The nomination was seconded, and further nominations were closed by a unanimous voice vote. Key Outcomes - Vote on the Nomination: Commissioners voted unanimously (all in favor, no dissents) to elect Robert McKenzie as Vice Mayor. - Swearing-In: McKenzie took the oath of office, pledging to support the U.S. and Florida constitutions, the Broward County Charter, and faithfully perform the duties of Vice Mayor. - Remarks: McKenzie thanked his colleagues, stating there was “no time for celebration” and that it was “time to continue the good work we’ve been doing,” urging the commission to get to work.

The Broward County Commission convened its annual reorganizational meeting on November 18, 2025, at 4:00 PM. The outgoing mayor delivered a State of the County address, reflecting on the past year's national and state-level challenges, local resilience, and accomplishments. The meeting was scheduled to then elect a new mayor and vice mayor. State of the County Address - The outgoing mayor thanked commissioners, county staff, and residents for their support and outlined the year's work. - National challenges: Erosion of trust in government, impacts on tourism from diminished U.S. brand, decline in international visitors (e.g., Canadian and Mexican tourists). - State challenges: Receipt of a letter from the State Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) requesting examination of county spending on transportation, "Green New Deal," and DEI, which the county responded to with full transparency. - Local successes: Opening of a new convention center, record cruise passengers at Port Everglades, an industry day at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport to reimagine the airport's future, completion of the sand bypass project after 30 years, completion of the Central and South Florida study for water management, a tri-county transportation interoperability agreement with Palm Beach and Miami-Dade, and a master plan for solid waste. - Economic metrics: Low unemployment, strong bond rating, healthy reserves, increasing building permits, wage growth, income migration, venture capital investment, and growth rate. - Affordability: Acknowledged that many residents struggle with housing costs, necessitating a multi-pronged approach to increase housing supply, bring good jobs, and strengthen the safety net. - The mayor emphasized that Broward County's response to adversity has been to invest in itself and maintain a collaborative, big-hearted community. Key Outcomes - The State of the County address concluded. The commission was then scheduled to elect a new mayor and vice mayor, but the transcript does not include that portion of the meeting. Note: No agenda or minutes were available; this summary is based solely on the transcript.

The Broward County Board of County Commissioners met on Thursday, November 13, 2025, from 10:10 AM to 4:19 PM, with a recess from 12:41 PM to 2:18 PM. The meeting included approval of a large consent agenda, public hearings on several ordinances, and discussion of high-profile items including ambulance service regulations, affordable housing advocacy, and a proposed county renaming. All nine commissioners were present at various times; Commissioner Rogers was absent for the morning consent votes. Consent Calendar - Approved Items 1-79 en masse (motion by Commissioner Geller, second by Commissioner McKinzie), with several items pulled for separate consideration. Supplemental Items 97, 98, and 99 were added to the consent agenda. - Items deferred to January 2026: 47 (ambulance classification ordinance by Geller), 48 (ambulance classification by Davis), and 71 (directive to amend Chapter 3½). - Item 72 (travel to South Africa for a staff member) was withdrawn by the County Administrator after discussion. - Item 93 (resolution supporting county renaming to "Lauderdale County") was withdrawn by sponsor Commissioner Udine. Public Comments & Testimony - BOLD Justice Delegation: Vice-President Brian Anthony Campbell, Reverend Aaron Lauer, and Pastor Michael Anderson spoke about the housing affordability crisis, urging the commission to adopt a 90% TIF allocation for affordable housing with 60% directed to families under 60% AMI, and to bring forward a resolution by mid-February 2026. Several commissioners expressed support and noted ongoing efforts. - Taxicab Ordinance (Item 86): Seven public speakers addressed the ordinance. Joe Davis (taxi industry representative) supported Commissioner Geller's amendment for uniform 15-year vehicle phase-in. Jean Bernard St. Ellen (Fort Lauderdale Cab Drivers Association) requested a cost-of-living fare adjustment (outside scope of the ordinance). Robert Bonner (Intercity Taxi) supported the amendments and requested a 20-year allowance for wheelchair-accessible vehicles. Aina Lee (Econo Properties) urged modern fleet standards for tourism. Russ Clinnette (Broward Workshops) supported Geller's amendment and opposed Commissioner Davis's amendment. Dan Lindblade (Greater Fort Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce) also supported the changes. Discussion Items - Item 9 – Port Everglades Master/Vision Plan Update: Port Director Joseph Morris presented the 2024 update after 30 public meetings. The plan focuses on cargo, cruise, and energy growth. Commissioners praised the plan and the port's $28.1 billion economic impact. Approved 9-0. - Items 16, 19, 20 – Human Services Contracts: Commissioner Rich abstained due to board service with the beneficiary organizations. Approved 8-0 (Rich abstaining). - Item 40 – Rezoning for Waste Management (Monarch Hill): Vice-Mayor Bogen voted no, citing his adversarial position. Approved 8-1. - Items 47, 48, 71, 79 – Ambulance Certificate Regulations: Senator Geller moved to postpone 47, 48, and 71 and consolidate them under Commissioner Davis's Item 79 (comprehensive review). After discussion with stakeholders (including HCA representative John Millage), the board directed staff, the EMS Council, and the County Attorney to conduct a holistic review and bring a draft ordinance to the first commission meeting in January 2026. Approved 9-0. - Item 60 – Regional Biosolids Facility Interlocal Agreement: Vice-Mayor Bogen discussed expediting via design-build. Staff confirmed 11 participating utilities. Approved 8-0 (Commissioner McKinzie not present). - Item 61 – Coastal Dune Restoration Grant: Mayor Furr urged expediting to meet turtle season deadlines. Award maximum increased from $5,000 to $10,000. Approved 8-0 (McKinzie not present). - Item 86 – Taxicab Ordinance Amendments: Three amendments were proposed and voted separately: - Commissioner Geller's amendment (Exhibit 2): Uniform 15-year vehicle phase-in countywide, including airport/seaport. Motion passed 9-0. - Commissioner Geller's second amendment (86A): Allows thematic taxicabs (e.g., classic cars) at the Director's discretion. Passed 9-0. - Commissioner Davis's amendment (Exhibit 3): Allows vehicles up to 15 years old with under 150,000 miles to enter the market. Passed 6-3 (Commissioners Geller, Rich, and Mayor Furr voted no). - The overall ordinance as amended was then enacted 9-0. - Item 87 – Commission Rules of Procedure: Mayor Furr introduced a clean-up rewrite. Commissioners Davis and Furr withdrew their individual amendments in favor of County Attorney's amendment (87-C), which clarifies commissioner travel/speaking protocols. Approved 9-0. - Item 93 – County Renaming to Lauderdale County: Commissioner Udine presented the concept. Opponents cited premature timing, cost, and lack of municipal input. Udine withdrew the item after sensing insufficient support. - Item 100 – Ethics Code Gift Amendments: Vice-Mayor Bogen moved to align county gift rules with state law. Approved 9-0; to return as a public hearing. - Item 101 – Selection Process for Mayor and Vice-Mayor: Commissioner Rogers initiated discussion on district fairness and tenure requirements. Further consideration continued to the next agenda. Key Outcomes - Approved (unanimous unless noted): Consent Agenda (including 79 routine items); Port Everglades Master Plan (9-0); human services contracts (8-0, Rich abstaining); biosolids interlocal (8-0); coastal dune grant (8-0); taxicab ordinance with three amendments (final vote 9-0); commission rules of procedure (9-0); ethics gift amendment directive (9-0). - Deferred to January 2026: Items 47, 48, 71 (ambulance certificate regulations), to be studied under Item 79. - Withdrawn: Item 72 (South Africa staff travel) and Item 93 (county renaming). - Votes with opposition: Item 40 (Monarch Hill rezoning) passed 8-1; Commissioner Davis's taxicab amendment passed 6-3. - Directives: County Attorney to draft ordinance on gift conformity (Item 100); staff and EMS Council to complete comprehensive ambulance service review by January 2026. - Reports: Commissioners reported on food insecurity collaboration (over $1 million raised), foreclosure increase (20% year-over-year), response to Sheriff's legal brief, and animal care successes (3,894 adoptions, 568 pets reunited).