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Record of Proceedings

Hollywood City Commission Regular Meeting – March 4, 2026

Hollywood Public Meetings — Wednesday, March 4, 2026
BodyHollywood, Florida
SessionHollywood Public Meetings
DateWednesday, March 4, 2026
StatusFILED
Video Record
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6:25

Today is, of course, Wednesday, March 4th, 2026.

6:31

It is great to see all of you, especially uh members of our uh public safety uh and Hollywood Police Department here.

6:37

Uh you know, at the start of each meeting, we always begin with a moment of silence, of course, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.

6:42

And sometimes we take a uh moment of privilege to uh remember people who uh who we either personally lost or the community lost, and and today we have uh unfortunately uh uh both uh to really take a minute to to recognize.

6:56

Um if I could, um, you know, Vice Mayor Callary had lost her mom, uh uh Bonnie a few uh now, a couple weeks ago, ten days ago.

7:06

Um and uh, you know, many of us were at the heartfelt uh uh service at nativity uh where she was remembered, and for those of us, of course, who've known Commissioner Kalary like like we have for many, many years.

7:18

We got to know Bonnie uh personally, was always uh you know, a great uh spirit, uh always a smile, always enjoying community events, joining us in our passion uh and enjoyment of the city of Hollywood and um you know, during the service, her life was recognized.

7:36

Uh but uh mostly uh what uh what touches me and of course touches all of us is uh a reminder again that uh Bonnie's uh love for her family and how her family loved her back and and her grandchildren is in the end what was recognized as most important to her.

7:52

Um and and that love uh in the end reminds us what in the end is should be most important and of course ought to be most most important in our own lives.

8:00

And so uh we remember uh Bonnie would love Commissioner Clary, and we're we're sorry for your loss your family.

8:08

We also uh lost uh this uh past week, uh a former city commissioner and county commissioner in our city, uh Suzanne Gunsberger, uh, who uh was the longest serving county commissioner uh in Broward County's history, served as mayor three times, also served for many years here in the Hollywood City Commission.

8:25

She was remembered again, most importantly by her own her own family as a grandmother and and mother herself, um, and what that meant to her.

8:34

Um and through her public life, she was of course recognized uh for her uh work uh in furthering the arts in Broward County when it wasn't as big as it is today, environmental protection, uh children's services, uh ethics and government really stood for a lot of things that in the end we have today codified uh Hollywood North Beach Park.

8:53

I understand she was a champion for uh for preserving and creating and so uh a lot of uh notable accomplishments during her tenure as an elected official.

9:02

Uh but we also remember her as a person and as a friend as well to many of us uh you know, along the years that we uh had a chance to know her.

9:10

Uh if there's anyone else who'd like to uh have a moment of privilege to follow up, I um let's go to Commissioner Shoeham.

9:18

Um I just wanna want to reiterate our uh condolences to the Clary family.

9:23

Um we're all gonna miss Bonnie.

9:26

Uh with respect to Sue Gunsberger, in addition to what you said, she was just an integral uh member of the um of District One in the Hollywood Lakes community.

9:37

Uh she's member remembered by so many for her public service, but we'll remember her for her private service as well to her neighbors and I know so many people that will walk around that lake in the morning and not get used to not seeing her.

9:52

So two amazing women uh lost in a short time.

9:57

So it's a time.

10:00

And as I understand, I must say during both services, uh both of them really enjoyed a nice glass of wine.

10:03

Uh and so uh I mean next time you say cheers, uh, think of both Bonnie and Suzanne.

10:09

Uh let's with that please rise for the moment of silence followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.

10:29

I failed to mention the uh service members of the U.S.

10:32

Armed Forces that we also lost this week, so let's honor them as well.

10:35

Thank you.

10:46

I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States.

10:50

And to the republic for the stand one nation.

10:54

Underground individual with liberty and justice.

11:00

Along those same lines, uh, we always make a point at the start of our meetings to recognize our U.S.

11:05

veterans, active service personnel, and their families.

11:08

So if you are a member of the uh armed forces, uh active, retired, veteran, uh family member thereof, please rise.

11:15

We'd like to recognize you.

11:24

Thank you.

11:24

Clerk, roll call, please.

11:27

Commissioner Shoham.

11:28

Here.

11:29

Commissioner Hernandez.

11:30

Here.

11:31

Vice Mayor Kalleri.

11:32

Here.

11:33

Commissioner Gruber.

11:34

Here.

11:34

Commissioner Biederman.

11:36

Here.

11:36

Commissioner Cantana.

11:38

Here.

11:38

Mayor Levy.

11:39

Here.

11:40

Thank you all.

11:42

All right.

11:43

Uh today's consent agenda includes items five through 40.

11:47

I do have a couple uh notes to make before we accept a motion.

11:50

Item 40 has been withdrawn by the city manager.

11:54

So consent are items five through 39.

11:57

Uh items 5, 28, and 35 have speaker cards, so we'll be happy to take them individually later in the meeting.

12:05

I also want to make note for the record that there are uh a number of items with uh some corrected information that has been provided on the dais.

12:12

Those includes uh include items eight, nine, thirteen, twenty, twenty-five, fifty-four, and fifty-five.

Discussion Breakdown — Share of Meeting
Technology and Innovation████████████████████20%
Beach Management█████████████████17%
Public Safety███████████████15%
Procedural█████████████13%
Public Engagement████████8%
Parks and Recreation█████5%
Pending Litigation████4%
Arts And Culture███3%
Zoning███3%
Summary of Proceedings

Hollywood City Commission Regular Meeting – March 4, 2026

The Hollywood City Commission held a regular meeting on Wednesday, March 4, 2026, from 1:13 PM to 8:04 PM. The agenda included consent items, presentations, proclamations, ordinances on first and second reading, resolutions on contracts and grants, and extensive discussion of a 5G tower siting issue. The meeting was called to order by Mayor Josh Levy and included all seven commissioners.

Consent Calendar

  • The consent agenda (items 5–39, after withdrawal of item 40) was approved unanimously (7-0). Items 5 (attorney fees), 28 (zoning code rewrite), and 35 (Diplomat Landings lift station) were pulled for separate discussion and later approved individually.
  • Item 40 (Boulder Construction roadway contract) was withdrawn by the City Manager.

Presentations, Proclamations & Awards

  • Police Department Awards: Chief Devlin presented awards for November and December 2025, including Officer of the Month, Life Saving Awards, and Employee of the Month. Recipients were recognized for actions including a mail theft investigation, high-rise fire evacuation, kidnapping response, and off-duty fire rescue.
  • Fire Cadet Program: Chief Levy introduced the Fire Cadet program. Cadets from local high schools spoke about their training and future goals.
  • Proclamations: March 2026 was proclaimed Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, Irish American Heritage Month, and March 20, 2026 as Eid al-Fitr Day. Each proclamation was accepted by community representatives.

Public Comments & Testimony

  • Vessel Exclusion Zone Ordinance (PO-2026-005): Ten residents spoke overwhelmingly in opposition to the proposed 218-yard exclusion zone, urging retention of the current 300-yard zone. Speakers cited safety concerns for swimmers, snorkelers, and divers, and noted that the 300-yard line is consistent with Dania Beach and the city's historical ordinance. Some speakers noted that the artificial reefs are at 185 yards and that reducing the buffer would place boat traffic closer to recreational users.
  • 5G Tower (Crown Castle): The Albertelli family and several neighbors testified about health symptoms (headaches, nosebleeds, skin rashes) they attribute to a 5G small cell antenna installed 22 feet from their home. They argued the permit had expired, that the city's own location preferences were not followed, and that the equipment was activated while review was pending. They requested relocation to a nearby non-residential site.
  • Mikvah Project (unrelated): Several speakers expressed concerns about a prior development approval, including alleged ethical issues and outstanding fines.
  • Other Items: Ann Ralston commented on zoning code changes, the affordable housing advisory committee, and the need for a budget advisory committee.

Discussion Items

  • Ordinance on Motorized Scooters (PO-2026-001, Second Reading): Unanimously adopted (7-0) after a public hearing with no speakers. The ordinance regulates micromobility devices and prohibits rentals.
  • Zoning Change (PO-2026-004, First Reading): Unanimously adopted (7-0) to rezone 1.11 acres at 19th Avenue between Jackson and Van Buren Streets from PS-3 to FH-2. The applicant (represented by Senator Steve Geller) stated the change would allow a Phase 2 mixed-use project consistent with the surrounding area.
  • Vessel Exclusion Zone (PO-2026-005, First Reading): After extensive debate, an amendment to change the exclusion zone from 218 yards to 300 yards failed 1-6 (Commissioner Shuham in favor). The original ordinance was then adopted on first reading 6-1 (Shuham dissenting). The Chief noted that the 300-yard line is more on top of the natural reef and that the 218-yard line is consistent with many neighboring cities. The ordinance will return for second reading with clerical corrections.
  • Alley Vacation (PO-2026-006, First Reading): Unanimously adopted (7-0) to vacate a portion of an alley for the Alta (Gaia) mixed-use development.
  • City Manager Employment Agreement (R-2026-094): Unanimously approved (7-0) for incoming City Manager Raelin Storey Lohse. The Mayor noted that the salary is below the 75th percentile and that the agreement includes a 457 plan, which saves the city money compared to a higher salary.
  • Beach Concessionaire Agreement (R-2026-095): Unanimously approved (7-0) with Boucher Brothers for a five-year term (plus three-year renewal option). The agreement includes a 25% resident discount, a senior discount (Monday–Thursday), $2,500/year community sponsorship, and a litter pickup program. The Commission directed staff to work with the vendor on optional membership programs and to extend operational hours to the later of 5:00 PM/7:00 PM or one hour before sunset.
  • Advisory Boards Sunsetting (R-2026-096): Unanimously approved (7-0) to continue all advisory boards except the General Obligation Bond Oversight Committee, which will sunset effective June 30, 2026, after presenting a final report.
  • Microtransit Grant (R-2026-097): Unanimously approved (7-0) to accept a $1,400,314 FDOT grant for a Tri-Rail corridor microtransit pilot, with 50% city match.
  • Asphalt & Concrete Contracts (R-2026-098 & 099): Both approved unanimously (6-0, with Commissioner Hernandez absent) to award multiple vendor blanket purchase agreements for up to $2,000,000 per vendor per year.
  • Attorney Fees (R-2026-056): Unanimously approved (7-0) to increase Weiss Serota Helfman Cole & Bierman fees by $100,000 for FY2026.
  • Zoning Code Rewrite (R-2026-081): Unanimously approved (7-0) to hire Bonnie C. Landry and Associates for $506,399 to rewrite zoning and land development regulations.
  • Diplomat Landings Lift Station (R-2026-088): Unanimously approved (7-0) a cost participation agreement with the developer for $500,000 per phase (total $1,000,000) to upgrade lift station infrastructure.

5G Tower (Crown Castle) Discussion

  • The City Manager introduced an independent analysis by Gerald Zadikoff of GM Selby, which concluded that the 5G antenna (at 40 watts, 2,500 MHz, 120-degree beam) is well below FCC and international safety limits, with measured power density at 0.012% of regulatory limits. The expert stated the antenna is safe and compliant.
  • Gary Resnick (GrayRobinson) advised that federal law preempts local regulation of RF emissions and that Florida law limits grounds for denial. He noted the permit was issued lawfully and that estoppel arguments would make revocation difficult.
  • The Albertellis presented a rebuttal report from their own expert, alleging methodological errors in the city's analysis and claiming that exposure levels exceed safe limits. They also noted that the permit was issued 486 days before construction, but city staff stated the permit was extended automatically by the governor's emergency order (Hurricane Ian) and that work had begun within the extension period.
  • The City Manager stated staff will: (1) formally request in writing that Crown Castle evaluate relocation or antenna tilt, (2) ask real estate experts if the property has been devalued due to the installation, and (3) note that the family has the option to file a lawsuit.
  • Commissioner Shuham requested support for a tougher wireless ordinance; Vice Mayor Callari and Commissioner Quintana supported the idea.

Key Outcomes

  • Consent Agenda: Approved unanimously (7-0), with items 5, 28, 35 pulled and approved individually.
  • Motorized Scooter Ordinance: Adopted on second reading (unanimous).
  • Zoning Change (PO-2026-004): Adopted on first reading (unanimous).
  • Vessel Exclusion Zone (PO-2026-005): Adopted on first reading (6-1). Amendment to 300 yards failed (1-6).
  • Alley Vacation (PO-2026-006): Adopted on first reading (unanimous).
  • City Manager Employment: Approved (unanimous).
  • Beach Concessionaire: Approved (unanimous) with direction on memberships and hours.
  • Advisory Boards: Continued all except GOB Oversight Committee (sunset June 30, 2026) (unanimous).
  • Microtransit Grant: Approved (unanimous).
  • Asphalt & Concrete Contracts: Approved (6-0 each).
  • Attorney Fees, Zoning Rewrite, Diplomat Landings: All approved (unanimous).
  • 5G Tower: No vote; staff directed to request relocation/antenna tilt and assess property value impact. Family may pursue legal action.
  • Footvolley Tournament: Motion to provide bleachers for all six events ($36,000) failed (3-4). Substitute motion to provide bleachers for one event ($6,000) and bring back a resolution for future FIFA events passed unanimously.
  • Executive Session: Announced for March 25, 2026 at 11:00 AM regarding Glisset Martinez vs. City of Hollywood.
  • Commissioner Hernandez: Requested that meeting minutes be approved within 120 days; supported by Mayor and Vice Mayor.
  • Vice Mayor Callari: Requested exploring an interlocal agreement with Broward County for septic-to-sewer funding.
  • Commissioner Shuham: Requested staff review of solar panel ordinance regarding potential shading from new developments.
  • City Manager: Announced upcoming events: 49th Annual Waterway Cleanup (March 8), Hollywood Arts Festival (March 8), District 3 Commission in the Community (March 11), St. Patrick's Day Parade and Festival (March 15).

Meeting Transcript

Today is, of course, Wednesday, March 4th, 2026. It is great to see all of you, especially uh members of our uh public safety uh and Hollywood Police Department here. Uh you know, at the start of each meeting, we always begin with a moment of silence, of course, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. And sometimes we take a uh moment of privilege to uh remember people who uh who we either personally lost or the community lost, and and today we have uh unfortunately uh uh both uh to really take a minute to to recognize. Um if I could, um, you know, Vice Mayor Callary had lost her mom, uh uh Bonnie a few uh now, a couple weeks ago, ten days ago. Um and uh, you know, many of us were at the heartfelt uh uh service at nativity uh where she was remembered, and for those of us, of course, who've known Commissioner Kalary like like we have for many, many years. We got to know Bonnie uh personally, was always uh you know, a great uh spirit, uh always a smile, always enjoying community events, joining us in our passion uh and enjoyment of the city of Hollywood and um you know, during the service, her life was recognized. Uh but uh mostly uh what uh what touches me and of course touches all of us is uh a reminder again that uh Bonnie's uh love for her family and how her family loved her back and and her grandchildren is in the end what was recognized as most important to her. Um and and that love uh in the end reminds us what in the end is should be most important and of course ought to be most most important in our own lives. And so uh we remember uh Bonnie would love Commissioner Clary, and we're we're sorry for your loss your family. We also uh lost uh this uh past week, uh a former city commissioner and county commissioner in our city, uh Suzanne Gunsberger, uh, who uh was the longest serving county commissioner uh in Broward County's history, served as mayor three times, also served for many years here in the Hollywood City Commission. She was remembered again, most importantly by her own her own family as a grandmother and and mother herself, um, and what that meant to her. Um and through her public life, she was of course recognized uh for her uh work uh in furthering the arts in Broward County when it wasn't as big as it is today, environmental protection, uh children's services, uh ethics and government really stood for a lot of things that in the end we have today codified uh Hollywood North Beach Park. I understand she was a champion for uh for preserving and creating and so uh a lot of uh notable accomplishments during her tenure as an elected official. Uh but we also remember her as a person and as a friend as well to many of us uh you know, along the years that we uh had a chance to know her. Uh if there's anyone else who'd like to uh have a moment of privilege to follow up, I um let's go to Commissioner Shoeham. Um I just wanna want to reiterate our uh condolences to the Clary family. Um we're all gonna miss Bonnie. Uh with respect to Sue Gunsberger, in addition to what you said, she was just an integral uh member of the um of District One in the Hollywood Lakes community. Uh she's member remembered by so many for her public service, but we'll remember her for her private service as well to her neighbors and I know so many people that will walk around that lake in the morning and not get used to not seeing her. So two amazing women uh lost in a short time. So it's a time. And as I understand, I must say during both services, uh both of them really enjoyed a nice glass of wine. Uh and so uh I mean next time you say cheers, uh, think of both Bonnie and Suzanne. Uh let's with that please rise for the moment of silence followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. I failed to mention the uh service members of the U.S. Armed Forces that we also lost this week, so let's honor them as well. Thank you. I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States. And to the republic for the stand one nation. Underground individual with liberty and justice. Along those same lines, uh, we always make a point at the start of our meetings to recognize our U.S. veterans, active service personnel, and their families. So if you are a member of the uh armed forces, uh active, retired, veteran, uh family member thereof, please rise. We'd like to recognize you. Thank you. Clerk, roll call, please. Commissioner Shoham. Here. Commissioner Hernandez. Here. Vice Mayor Kalleri. Here. Commissioner Gruber. Here. Commissioner Biederman. Here. Commissioner Cantana. Here. Mayor Levy.

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