Broward County Commission Workshop on ROI and Policy Priorities - January 20, 2026

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.