City Commission Meeting

City of Lauderhill Attend via Computer: https://www.colvcm.com City Commission Chambers at City Hall 5581 W. Oakland Park Blvd. Lauderhill, FL, 33313 www.lauderhill-fl.gov Meeting Minutes - Final Monday, April 26, 2021 7:00 PM Attend via phone: Dial 1-312-626-6799 & Meeting ID: 992 3618 2302 City Commission Meeting LAUDERHILL CITY COMMISSION Mayor Ken Thurston Vice Mayor Denise D. Grant Commissioner Melissa P. Dunn Commissioner Lawrence Martin Commissioner Sarai Martin Desorae Giles-Smith, City Manager Andrea M. Anderson, City Clerk Earl Hall, City Attorney City Commission Meeting Meeting Minutes - Final April 26, 2021 I CALL TO ORDER II COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE PUBLIC (AND RESPONSES TO THE PUBLIC, IF THE TIME PERMITS DURING THIS PORTION OF THE MEETING OF THE CITY COMMISSION) III ADJOURNMENT (NO LATER THAN 7:30 PM) I CALL TO ORDER OF REGULAR MEETING Mayor Thurston called to order the Regular City Commission Meeting at 7:00 PM. Mayor Thurston explained the present meeting was being conducted in a new and challenging era, as the City of Lauderhill, Broward County, the State of Florida, the United States of America, and the world were experiencing new challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Due to the challenges of the virus, the City would continue to hold hybrid, virtual governmental meetings in accordance with the Center for Disease Control (CDC) COVID 19 guidelines, the State of Florida Governor Ron DeSantis Executive Order 20-52, City Code Chapter 8.5, and Florida statutes. The waiver of the physical presence requirement expired, and board members were required to be physically present at public meetings. As a result, all members of the City Commission were present in the Commission Chambers at City Hall assessing accesing the virtual meeting from their laptops. Due to the nature of the meeting and the constraints of holding a virtual hybrid meeting, he asked for everyone’s patience. Anyone wishing to speak should let him know by asking to do so. The microphones of all members of the Commission would be live during the entire meeting, while City staff and members of the public attending the meeting remotely would be muted. He said anyone having issues should text IT Director Doug Downs, thanking everyone for their patience and co-operation during such difficult and ever changing times. II ROLL CALL Present: 5- Commissioner Melissa P. Dunn,Vice Mayor Denise D. Grant,Commissioner Lawrence Martin,Commissioner Sarai Martin, and Mayor Ken Thurston ALSO PRESENT: Desorae Giles-Smith, City Manager Earl Hall, City Attorney Constance Stanley, Police Chief Nadia Chin, Deputy City Clerk III PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG FOLLOWED BY GOOD AND WELFARE HOUSEKEEPING A motion was made by Vice Mayor D. Grant, seconded by Commissioner L. Martin, to ACCEPT the Revised Version of the City Commission Meeting Agenda for April 26, 2021, including a request that item 9D on the agenda be heard first. City of Lauderhill Page 1 City Commission Meeting Meeting Minutes - Final April 26, 2021 The motion carried by the following vote: Yes: 5- Commissioner M. Dunn, Vice Mayor D. Grant, Commissioner L. Martin, Commissioner S. Martin, and Mayor K. Thurston Abstain: 0 IV CONSIDERATION OF CONSENT AGENDA A motion was made by Commissioner L. Martin, seconded by Commissioner S. Martin, that this Consent Agenda was approved. The motion carried by the following vote: Yes: 5- Commissioner M. Dunn, Vice Mayor D. Grant, Commissioner L. Martin, Commissioner S. Martin, and Mayor K. Thurston Abstain: 0 V APPROVAL OF MINUTES A. Minutes for the Special City Commission Meeting for March 29, 2021. Attachments: March 29, 2021 - Special City Commission Meeting Minutes These Minutes were approved on the Consent Agenda. (See Consideration of Consent Agenda for vote tally.) B. Minutes for the City Commission Meeting for April 12, 2021. Attachments: April 12, 2021 - City Commission Meeting Minutes These Minutes were approved on the Consent Agenda. (See Consideration of Consent Agenda for vote tally.) VI PROCLAMATIONS / COMMENDATIONS A. A PROCLAMATION DECLARING MAY AS MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS MONTH (REQUESTED BY MAYOR KEN THURSTON). B. A PROCLAMATION HONORING JULIANNA CALDERON (REQUESTED BY COMMISSIONER SARAI MARTIN). VII SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS VIII GENERAL PRESENTATIONS (5 MINUTES MAXIMUM) A. A PRESENTATION FROM VEE ESCARMENT OF GENERATIONAL WEALTH THROUGH HOMEOWNERSHIP (REQUESTED BY COMMISSIONER MELISSA P. DUNN). B. A PRESENTATION RECOGNIZING PARTICIPANTS IN THE INTERGENERATIONAL VIRTUAL YOUTH AND SENIOR PROGRAMS AND HONORING JENNIFER HAMILTON, ATHLETICS & STUDENT ACTIVITIES LIAISON AT BROWARD COUNTY SCHOOLS (REQUESTED BY CITY MANAGER DESORAE GILES-SMITH). C. AN UPDATE FROM THE CODE ENFORCEMENT BOARD (REQUESTED BY CITY MANAGER DESORAE GILES-SMITH). City of Lauderhill Page 2 City Commission Meeting Meeting Minutes - Final April 26, 2021 D. A PRESENTATION RECOGNIZING MUNICIPAL CLERKS WEEK (REQUESTED BY COMMISSIONER MELISSA P. DUNN). IX ORDINANCES & PUBLIC HEARINGS - FIRST READING (NOT ON CONSENT AGENDA) (AS ADVERTISED IN THE SUN-SENTINEL) 1. ORDINANCE NO. 21O-03-108: AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL, FLORIDA AMENDING VARIOUS SECTIONS OF THE LAND DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS (LDR) AND THE CODE OF ORDINANCES PERTAINING TO MOBILE VENDORS, MOBILE FOOD VENDORS, AND HOME BASED BUSINESS REGULATIONS TO COMPLY WITH FLORIDA STATUTES, SECTION 477.0263; ADDING EXCEPTIONS PERTAINING TO COSMETOLOGY SERVICES; AMENDING LDR SCEHDULE A TO ADD DEFINITIONS FOR MOBILE VENDORS AND MOBILE FOOD VENDOR; AMENDING LDR SCHEDULE B, ALLOWABLE USES, TO ADD PROVISIONS REGARDING MOBILE VENDOR AND MOBILE FOOD VENDOR USES IN RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL ZONING DISTRICTS; AMENDING LDR ARTICLE III TO ADD SECTION 5.56 SUPPLEMENTAL REGULATIONS FOR MOBILE VENDOR AND MOBILE FOOD VENDOR USES; AMENDING CITY CODE OF ORDINANCES, CHAPTER 12, SECTION 12-5 TO ADD PROVISIONS FOR MOBILE VENDOR AND MOBILE FOOD VENDOR USES; SECTION 12-9 TO ADD PROVISIONS REGARDING HOME BASED BUSINESS REGULATIONS; AMENDING CITY CODE OF ORDINANCE CHAPTER 14, SECTION 14-38 VENDING VEHICLES (A) TO ADD DEFINITIONS OF MOBILE VENDOR AND MOBILE FOOD VENDOR AND (B) TO ADD THAT SUPPLEMENTAL REGULATIONS OF (B) ARE SPECIFIC TO ICE CREAM VENDING VEHICLES; PROVIDING FOR FINDINGS AND CONCLUSIONS; PROVIDING FOR CONFLICTS; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE (REQUESTED BY CITY MANAGER, DESORAE GILES-SMITH). Attachments: ORD-21O-03-108-Mobile Vendors Food.pdf AR 21O-03-108 Final DRR Mobile Vendors and Mobile Food Vendors.pdf Attachment A. FS 477.0263 Vice Mayor Grant thanked Mr. Hobbs, with whom she had an in depth discussion and mentioned she thought mobile food vendors had access to residential areas, but Mr. Hobbs informed her this was not the case. She asked him to elaborate. Deputy City Manager/Finance Director Kennie Hobbs clarified the proposed ordinance would not allow mobile food vendors to operate in residential communities; they could operate on commercial properties only. However, other mobile vendors providing such services as car washing, pet grooming, etc. could operate on residential property, but not on commercial property. City of Lauderhill Page 3 City Commission Meeting Meeting Minutes - Final April 26, 2021 Vice Mayor Grant sought clarification on the length of time mobile food vendors could remain on commercial properties. Operations Administrator Zachery Davis-Walker explained there were now two definitions specific to food vendors and mobile vendors; food vendors in commercial and residential districts were only permitted by way of a special permit. Thus, if an HOA decided to have a block party and wished to have a mobile food vendor, they had the opportunity to propose a site plan that included food vendors, but it would be tied to a special event, and the HOA’s plan had to comply with all City Code’s public health and safety requirements; no food vendors were permitted by right to operate in a residential district; similar requirements applied to mobile food vendors on commercial properties. Vice Mayor Grant mentioned Mr. Hobbs and she discussed the City being open to allowing non-Lauderhill mobile food vendors into the City, asking if measures could be put in place, whereby, the City gave preference to Lauderhill-based food vendors. Mr. Davis-Walker answered yes. Food vendors not based in Lauderhill had to show proof of having a Broward business license, and they were required to pass the inspection of the Lauderhill Fire Department, for which they would receive a sticker to prove they passed inspection. The sticker could be for six months up to a year, depending on the fee the vendor paid the City; this was relevant if the vendor planned on participating in multiple upcoming Lauderhill events. He remarked Lauderhill food trucks had to abide by the same standards, and he imagined many of the truck owners had a certificate of use (COU) showing they were an existing Lauderhill business. From an economic development standpoint, City staff focused on Lauderhill businesses and kept a tracking sheet of all City food truck vendors; they received eBlasts from the City whenever there was an upcoming event they might be interested in participating in. Commissioner S. Martin desired more information regarding a food truck being permitted on residential property. Mr. Davis-Walker elaborated, if a homeowner wanted to have a food truck vendor in their private driveway to provide food for guests at a function, it could be permitted. However, if the food truck stood on a public right of way and sold food in the neighborhood, that was not permitted. Commissioner S. Martin surmised a food truck positioned on a private, residential property serving only the homeowner’s guests was similar to having a caterer. Mr. Davis-Walker answered yes, but the code still required the homeowner to submit a special permit application. Commissioner S. Martin questioned if a residential property owner had a catering business, whether or not food was sold from a food truck, could the owner sell food from his private driveway. Mr. Davis-Walker stated this was not permitted. There were requirements for trade vehicles, such as those with business advertisements on their sides, and the City City of Lauderhill Page 4 City Commission Meeting Meeting Minutes - Final April 26, 2021 required them to be magnets, so they could be removed when the commercial vehicle parked in the owners residential driveway; such activities had to be in compliance with the zoning regulations. Mr. Hobbs stressed a resident could not operate or sell food from a truck parked in the driveway of their home, and this was already the case in the City Code. Commissioner S. Martin wondered if the proposed ordinance was simply restating these parameters, and adding food trucks. City Attorney Hall explained Mr. Hobbs’s response pertained to the owner of a commercial vehicle wishing to park at their home; they should have removable magnets in order to park on their residential property, and this included food truck. Thus, the City had a prohibition against any commercial vehicles with signage being regularly parked on residential property. He said, specifically, the proposed ordinance sought to update the existing code; for example, the owner of a food truck who parked the vehicle in the driveway of their residence could not sell food from that driveway. This was what the City sought to regulate by finally putting into effect actual provisions and terms that addressed food trucks in particular, but the City always had provisions prohibiting commercial vehicles with signage parking in residential neighborhoods. Commissioner L. Martin thought most members of the Commission were passionate about opportunities that allowed residents to make a living, and he voiced his position in his discussions with staff. The proposed amendment was to allow such mobile businesses as dog groomers, car washes, etc. into the City’s residential neighborhoods to provide such services, and to do so in compliance with City code. When he asked about ice cream trucks that sold other foods, such as barbeque chicken, ribs, etc., Mr. Hobbs told him the products sold by an ice cream truck had to be 90 percent ice cream related. He mentioned in a small area in St. George/Broward Estates there was a sliver of land that was in Plantation, and every Friday and Saturday, right next to the Pollo Tropical, there was a lot on which four food trucks parked. The City needed to look at such situations to see where commercial spots could allow a food truck to be regularly on specific days, as he did not want to see food truck owners having to run to the City every three days to get a permit. He agreed with not wishing to see 30 food trucks in his residential neighborhood operating all the time, but there needed to be some common ground that would allow such vendors to make money. Mr. Hobbs responded staff and he were already working on that process; they had a meeting scheduled in the coming weeks with City administration to review the first draft of an amendment to the ordinance related to permitting those types of events. Staff was merging the language for special events and promotional events to allow vendors to procure a single document that permitted them to plan for a year’s worth of events versus them having to apply for a permit for each event, which was the current practice; the goal was to streamline the process. City Attorney Hall clarified, upon approval of the proposed ordinance, the second reading would take place on May 10, 2021, and the amendment would take effect upon Commission approval. City of Lauderhill Page 5 City Commission Meeting Meeting Minutes - Final April 26, 2021 Mayor Thurston opened the discussion to the public. Pierre Belizaire, 3760 NW 3rd Street, Lauderhill, expressed confusion as to whether, at present, food trucks were permitted in Lauderhill. Mr. Hobbs explained food trucks were permitted on commercial properties where a landlord gave the food truck vendor permission to do so; a special permit was required from the City in order for the food truck to operate as such. Thus, Ffood truck vendors were allowed in Lauderhill on a case-by-case basis, and each vendor was required to get a permit to operate. The second reading of the proposed ordinance was on May 10, 2021, during which time staff was working with the City Manager on language that streamlined the process to allow food trucks on commercial properties, for which vendors could apply for and receive an annual permit. Thus, a food truck vendor, in filing such an application, would identify the dates and location in the application, and City staff would review the application that went to the City Manager for approval or denial; it would be a permit that allowed a vendor to apply annually, identifying locations and dates. He said the vendor could then, throughout the year, position their food truck at the locations on those dates without applying for a City permit for each event. Henry Bartow, 1445 NW 33rd Way, Lauderhill, echoed confusion, stating if someone was trying to establish a business, being allowed to open one day a week would not allow anyone to earn a proper income. He understood not being able to locate in residential neighborhoods, but he saw food trucks parked in other commercial areas in the City. He thought the subject ordinance was to allow food vendors at any chosen location in Lauderhill, not for them to apply for special permits, etc. It seemed to him the City’s restricting them as to location and date would not allow businesses to thrive. Dwight Hinkson, 3772 Inverrary Boulevard, #108, commented there were food trucks he followed on an app, and as they moved from location to location, regardless of the city. He was unsure how they were able to do this, and he understood the City wished to enable its local vendors to thrive and make it easier to do business in Lauderhill, so he asked that the Commission approve procedures to make it happen. Vice Mayor Grant asked if, with all the information the Commission and staff were receiving, the subject ordinance should be tabled to incorporate some of the input. Mr. Hobbs replied nothing said thus far would require a change in the proposed language amendment. What was being requested was more administrative in nature, and they could be handled on a case-by-case basis in the application process. Mayor Thurston received no further from the input. Commissioner L. Martin made a motion to Move Communication from Public Officials to the end of the agenda, seconded by Commissioner S. Martin. The vote was as follows: Commissioner Dunn Yes City of Lauderhill Page 6 City Commission Meeting Meeting Minutes - Final April 26, 2021 Vice Mayor Grant Yes Commissioner L. Martin Yes Commissioner S. Martin Yes Mayor Thurston Yes A motion was made by Commissioner L. Martin, seconded by Commissioner M. Dunn, that this Ordinance be approved on first reading to the City Commission Meeting, due back on 5/10/2021. The motion carried by the following vote: Yes: 5- Commissioner M. Dunn, Vice Mayor D. Grant, Commissioner L. Martin, Commissioner S. Martin, and Mayor K. Thurston Abstain: 0 2. ORDINANCE NO. 21O-04-113: AN ORDINANCE APPROVING THE SIX MONTH BUDGET REVIEW OF REVENUE AND EXPENDITURE AMENDMENTS FOR FISCAL YEAR 2021 IN THE TOTAL ADJUSTMENT AMOUNT OF $3,394,791.00 APPROVING AN INTERDEPARTMENT BUDGET ADJUSTMENT IN THE AMOUNT OF $1,650,106.00, A CAPITAL BUDGET ADJUSTMENT IN THE AMOUNT OF $480,511.00 AND A SUPPLEMENTAL APPROPRIATION IN THE AMOUNT OF $1,264,174.00; REFLECTING APPROPRIATE ADJUSTMENTS TO VARIOUS REVENUE AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNTS AS SPECIFICALLY INDICATED IN THE BREAKDOWN; PROVIDING VARIOUS BUDGET CODE NUMBERS; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE (REQUESTED BY CITY MANAGER, DESORAE GILES-SMITH). Attachments: ORD-21O-04-113-Budget 6-Months Adjustment & Appropriation FY 2021.pdf AR 21O-04-113 Supplemental 6 month 2021 Final.pdf Commissioner L. Martin reiterated when sizeable dollar items were on the agenda, he preferred to pull them to ensure the public was fully aware of their content, and the City was being transparent about what was taking place with the numbers. He met with Mr. Hobbs and staff to confirm, with the proposed ordinance, based on the first six months of operation in the current fiscal year, and the City expected revenues and expenditures, the subject report took into consideration any overages or shortfalls during that period. As Mr. Hobbs’s department operated under a balanced budget, funds could be moved around within each department to ensure the budget remained balanced. He wished to clarify the subject funding had nothing to do with the rescue money the City anticipated receiving from the federal government. Mr. Hobbs affirmed the subject monies had nothing to do with the rescue dollars from the federal government the City anticipated receiving; the plan for those funds would come before the Commission in a similar format of a supplemental appropriation in May. In relation to the proposed ordinance, staff sought to accomplish two objectives; the first being a supplemental appropriation, taking a look at all revenues and expenditures, and projecting out what staff expected those to be by yearend. He noted staff made adjustments based on increases and City of Lauderhill Page 7 City Commission Meeting Meeting Minutes - Final April 26, 2021 decreases in revenues collected, amending the budget totals. The second action was to make adjustments between department accounts to balance the budget as needed. He said staff came before the Commission for budget amendments only a few times; one was to amend the budget, the second was to move money between departments, and the third was when staff sought to affect capital line items. Adjustments to the three areas took place under the proposed ordinance. Vice Mayor Grant mentioned having a good conversation with Mr. Hobbs regarding the subject item, asking for more information on the vehicles being purchased, as he indicated to her over the next three years the City would have purchased upwards of 73 vehicles for the Lauderhill Police Department, along with other vehicles, and the total for all the vehicles would not exceed $5 million. Mr. Hobbs responded that item passed on consent, but as part of the recovery plan staff and he would present the Commission at their next regular meeting, but the item that passed on consent allowed an expenditure of up to $5 million to purchase vehicles. Some adjustments were made, based on the discussion at the previous Commission workshop, and staff bumped the number of public safety vehicles by 20 plus vehicles, along with other adjustments. He hoped when staff presented the Commission with the supplementary appropriation at the next meeting, the City received the $9 million plus from the federal government; staff could increase the operating expenditure accounts to reflect the proposed expenditures for the rest of the fiscal year. A motion was made by Commissioner L. Martin, seconded by Mayor K. Thurston, that this Ordinance be approved on first reading to the City Commission Meeting, due back on 5/10/2021. The motion carried by the following vote: Yes: 5- Commissioner M. Dunn, Vice Mayor D. Grant, Commissioner L. Martin, Commissioner S. Martin, and Mayor K. Thurston Abstain: 0 2A. ORDINANCE NO. 21O-04-114: AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL AMENDING THE CODE OF ORDINANCES, CHAPTER 8, ELECTIONS, SECTION 8-10, CODE OF ETHICS FOR CANDIDATES FOR PUBLIC OFFICE; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE (REQUESTED BY COMMISSIONER MELISSA P. DUNN). Attachments: ORD-21O-04-114-Code of Ethics 8-10.pdf AR 21O-04-114 This Ordinance was approved on the Consent Agenda on first reading to the City Commission Meeting, due back on 05/10/2021. (See Consideration of Consent Agenda for vote tally.) X ORDINANCES & PUBLIC HEARINGS - SECOND READING (NOT ON CONSENT AGENDA) (AS ADVERTISED IN THE SUN-SENTINEL) 3. ORDINANCE NO. 21O-04-111: AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL CODE OF ORDINANCES, CHAPTER 2, City of Lauderhill Page 8 City Commission Meeting Meeting Minutes - Final April 26, 2021 ADMINISTRATION, ARTICLE IV, CITY COMMISSION, SECTION 2-151, REGULAR MEETINGS TO PROVIDE THAT CITY COMMISSION MEETINGS SHALL START AT 6:00 P.M.; PROVIDING FOR CODIFICATION; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE (REQUESTED BY MAYOR KEN THURSTON). Attachments: ORD-21O-04-111-Code-2_151-6pm Commission Meeting Start Time AR 21O-04-111 Commissioner L. Martin understood the driving force behind the subject ordinance to move meeting times was to allow everyone to get out at a reasonable hour, but on social media, an unsolicited, large response saw numerous people stating they felt if meetings began at 5:00 p.m., it would minimize the ability of many working individuals to attend and/or participate. He thought it was safe to say, based on the conversations he had over the past few months, interest in Commission meetings increased considerably, with more members of the public tuning in and paying attention to what was going on in the City. He supported an earlier meeting time, but thought a good compromise was to start meetings at either 5:45 or 6:00 p.m. versus at 5:00 p.m. Vice Mayor Grant noted some 300 persons reached out to her on the subject item, and they echoed the sentiments of those mentioned by Commissioner L. Martin; they, too, had the same concerns. Many were just returning to work due to the pandemic, so it was difficult to get away from work in time to make the 5:00 p.m. start time. She said some preferred if the start time remained at 7:00 p.m., but they could accept a compromise of starting at 6:00 p.m.. Mayor Thurston opened the discussion to the public. Sam Wilkerson, 610 NW 38th Avenue, Lauderhill, stated his wife brought the community’s objection to starting meetings at 5:00 p.m. to Commissioner L. Martin’s attention, telling him some people were still at work at that time, and for those that left work at 5:00 p.m., it was not possible to attend meetings if it started at 5:00 p.m. due to evening traffic, etc. He agreed 6:00 p.m. was a good compromise. A motion was made by Commissioner L. Martin, seconded by Vice Mayor D. Grant, that this Ordinance be approved as amended on second reading to the City Commission Meeting, due back on 5/10/2021. The motion carried by the following vote: Yes: 5- Commissioner M. Dunn, Vice Mayor D. Grant, Commissioner L. Martin, Commissioner S. Martin, and Mayor K. Thurston Abstain: 0 4. ORDINANCE NO. 21O-04-112: AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL CODE OF ORDINANCES, CHAPTER 2, ADMINISTRATION, ARTICLE IV, CITY COMMISSION, SECTION 2-159, ORDER OF BUSINESS; PROVIDING FOR CODIFICATION; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE (REQUESTED BY COMMISSIONER SARAI “RAY” MARTIN). City of Lauderhill Page 9 City Commission Meeting Meeting Minutes - Final April 26, 2021 Attachments: ORD-21O-04-112-Code-2_159.___Order_of_business AR 21O-04-112 Vice Mayor Grant observed the proposed ordinance needed to be amended to change the meeting time to 6:30 p.m. for consistency. Commissioner L. Martin concurred. Commissioner S. Martin mentioned the subject amendment led him to ask Mr. Hall to look at the City’s ordinance to see if other things could or should be updated and, if so, they, could be approved at present; he asked Mr. Hall to elaborate on other changes. City Attorney Hall said one of the issues Commissioner S. Martin and he discussed was the Commission regularly voting to move Communications from Public Officials to the end of the agenda, and Commissioner Martin suggested permanently moving that item to the end of the agenda, rather than having to vote to do so at most meetings. Mayor Thurston opened the discussion to the public. Keith, a member of the public attending the meeting virtually, asked if the Laundromat was already approved. City Attorney Hall replied that item was not on the meeting’s agenda. Mayor Thurston explained the item was pulled from the agenda, and it would be considered on an upcoming Commission agenda; the rescheduled date would be posted on the City’s website and other forms of public noticing. Mayor Thurston received no further input from the public. City Attorney Hall agreed, as the start time under agenda item three passed for 6:00 p.m., under item four, communications from the public said to end at 5:30 p.m. should be changed to 6:30 p.m. to be consistent. A motion was made by Commissioner S. Martin, seconded by Mayor K. Thurston, that this Ordinance be approved as amended on second reading to the City Commission Meeting, due back on 5/10/2021. The motion carried by the following vote: Yes: 5- Commissioner M. Dunn, Vice Mayor D. Grant, Commissioner L. Martin, Commissioner S. Martin, and Mayor K. Thurston Abstain: 0 XI RESOLUTIONS (IF NOT ON CONSENT AGENDA) 5. RESOLUTION NO. 21R-04-76: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL APPROVING THE UTILITY WORK BY HIGHWAY CONTRACTOR AGREEMENT (UWHCA) City of Lauderhill Page 10 City Commission Meeting Meeting Minutes - Final April 26, 2021 BETWEEN THE STATE OF FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION ("FDOT") AND THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL; PROVIDING TERMS AND CONDITIONS FOR PLANNED INTERSECTION UTILITY IMPROVEMENTS ALONG STATE ROAD 7; APPROVING THE COST ESTIMATE OF $4,076.80; PROVIDING FOR PAYMENT FROM THE APPROPRIATE BUDGET CODE NUMBER(S); PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE (REQUESTED BY CITY MANAGER, DESORAE GILES-SMITH). Attachments: RES-21R-04-76-Agrmt-FDOT Utility Work by Highway Contractor Agreement.pdf AR 21R-04-76 FDOT SR 7 Corridor Improvements.pdf This Resolution was approved on the Consent Agenda. (See Consideration of Consent Agenda for vote tally.) 6. RESOLUTION NO. 21R-04-81: A RESOLUTION APPROVING THE REMETERING AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL AND STRATFORD 88, LLC. TO ALLOW SUBMETERS AT THE PROPERTY LOCATED AT 1920-1924 N.W. 60TH AVENUE, LAUDERHILL, FLORIDA, IN ORDER TO SEPARATELY BILL EACH INDIVIDUAL USER BASED UPON ACTION WATER CONSUMPTION AT THE SAME RATE UTILIZED BY THE CITY; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE (REQUESTED BY CITY MANAGER, DESORAE GILES-SMITH). Attachments: RES-21R-04-81-Agrmt-Rem-Stratford 88.pdf AR 21R-04-81 Remetering Agreement_1920_1924 NW 60 Ave.pdf This Resolution was approved on the Consent Agenda. (See Consideration of Consent Agenda for vote tally.) 7. RESOLUTION NO. 21R-04-82: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL AWARDING THE BID TO ORACLE ELEVATOR IN ACCORDANCE WITH RFP 2021-006 TO PROVIDE CITYWIDE ELEVATOR MAINTENANCE SERVICES IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $52,080.00 OER FOUR (4) YEARS; PROVIDING FOR PAYMENT FROM BUDGET CODE NUMBER 001-313-04610; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE (REQUESTED BY CITY MANAGER, DESORAE GILES-SMITH). Attachments: RES-21R-04-82-bid-Oracle Elevator Maintenance.pdf AR 21R-04-82 ORIGINAL FILE NOTIFICATION ORACLE ELEVATOR PRICE SCHEDULE This Resolution was approved on the Consent Agenda. (See Consideration of City of Lauderhill Page 11 City Commission Meeting Meeting Minutes - Final April 26, 2021 Consent Agenda for vote tally.) 8. RESOLUTION NO. 21R-04-83: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL AWARDING THE BID TO BETTOLI VENDING IN ACCORDANCE WITH RFP 2021-009 TO PROVIDE CITYWIDE VENDING MACHINE SERVICES AT NO COST TO THE CITY; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE (REQUESTED BY CITY MANAGER, DESORAE GILES-SMITH). Attachments: RES-21R-04-83-bid-Bettoli Vending.pdf AR 21R-04-83 BETOLLI PRICE SCHEDULE ORIGINAL FILE NOTIFICATION This Resolution was approved on the Consent Agenda. (See Consideration of Consent Agenda for vote tally.) 9. RESOLUTION NO. 21R-04-84: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL APPROVING THE FUNDING SOURCE FOR THE FUTURE COSTS OF ACQUIRING AND EQUIPPING VEHICLES FOR VARIOUS DEPARTMENTS CITYWIDE AND FOR MAINTENANCE EQUIPMENT FOR THE PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT AND THE DEPARTMENT OF ENGINEERING AND ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES (DEES) NECESSARY TO PROVIDE GOVERNMENTAL SERVICES CITYWIDE; APPROVING THE USE OF AMERICAN RESCUE PLAN ACT COVID-19 RELIEF FUNDS AS A POTENTIAL SOURCE OF FUNDS FOR THE PURCHASE IN A TOTAL AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $5 MILLION DOLLARS; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE (REQUESTED BY CITY MANAGER, DESORAE GILES-SMITH). Attachments: RES-21R-04-84-Vehicles Funding Source-American Rescue Plan Act.pdf AR 21R-04-84 The-American-Rescue-Plan-Act-Provisions_v01 FACT SHEET_ The American Rescue Plan Will Deliver Immediate Economic Relief to Families _ U.S. Department of the Treasury.pdf This Resolution was approved on the Consent Agenda. (See Consideration of Consent Agenda for vote tally.) 9A. RESOLUTION NO. 21R-04-88: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL CONDEMNING HATE & EXTREMISM; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE (REQUESTED BY MAYOR KEN THURSON). Attachments: RES-21R-04-88-Reso-Condeming Hate & Extremism.pdf AR 21R-04-88 Addendum Against Hate Reso.pdf City of Lauderhill Page 12 City Commission Meeting Meeting Minutes - Final April 26, 2021 This Resolution was approved on the Consent Agenda. (See Consideration of Consent Agenda for vote tally.) 9B. RESOLUTION NO. 21R-04-89: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL APPOINTING SAMARA RAWLS AS A MEMBER OF THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL YOUTH COUNCIL BY MAYOR KEN THURSTON, TO SERVE FOR THE REMAINDER OF A ONE (1) YEAR TERM EXPIRING NOVEMBER 2021; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE (REQUESTED BY MAYOR KEN THURSTON). Attachments: RES-21R-04-89-BRD-Youth Council 2021-Mayor Thurston.pdf AR 21R-04-89 Rawls, Samara Youth Council List This Resolution was approved on the Consent Agenda. (See Consideration of Consent Agenda for vote tally.) 9C. RESOLUTION NO. 21-04-90: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL, FLORIDA, OPPOSING SENATE BILL 856 AND HOUSE BILL 839, PREEMPTING THE REGULATION OF ENERGY INFRASTRUCTURE TO THE STATE; URGING FLORIDA GOVERNOR RON DESANTIS TO VETO THE BILL; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE (REQUESTED BY COMMISSIONER MELISSA P. DUNN). Attachments: RES-21R-04-90-Veto Energy Preemption Bill.pdf AR 21R-04-90 HB 839-Energy.pdf SB 856-Energy.pdf Commissioner Dunn invited Leah Weisburd of the Sierra Club, Florida Chapter, member of the Broward Group Sierra Executive Committee, and a member of the Lauderhill Health & Prosperity Built Environment Sub-council; the subject item was one of the many items Ms. Weisburd brought forth. Many policy recommendations that came out of the Sierra Club did so through Ms. Weisburd, and she would speak on the particular policy in the subject resolution, and why it was critical to urge Governor DeSantis to veto the item. Leah Weisburd, Broward Sierra Executive Committee, stated it was important for Lauderhill to pass the subject resolution, as it was no secret that South Florida was ground zero for the impacts of climate change, namely sea level rise, and intensifying hurricanes. State legislators just passed a law providing for $100 million to be spent annually on projects related to flooding and sea level rise. She believed this was a great start to climate change adaptation, but there needed to be climate change mitigation, and a need to address the root causes of climate change. Greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions caused global warming, and global warming caused sea level rise and stronger hurricanes; to mitigate these effects, it City of Lauderhill Page 13 City Commission Meeting Meeting Minutes - Final April 26, 2021 was necessary to move away from fossil fuels immediately, but Florida, historically, ignored the call to reduce GHG emissions, at least at the state level. She stated this left local governments to do the heavy lifting, with some 11 municipalities in Florida committed to transition away from fossil fuels, and move to 100 percent clean, renewable energy with some already taking steps in that direction. Unfortunately, the bills being heard in Tallahassee threatened these commitments; she never fully understood why Tallahassee took no action to combat the climate process, and though some senators and representatives tried, they were beaten down by bills calling for a 100 percent clean energy bill being introduced that went nowhere. Ms. Weisburd remarked now the State Legislature was not only not taking positive mitigation climate action, they were actually working to hinder positive mitigation climate action that local municipalities took, trying to keep elected officials from doing the job elected State officials should be doing. She asked the City of Lauderhill, in which she was a resident, to pass the subject resolution, showing all Broward County the City would take the lead on the call for climate mitigation action and protection of home rule. Commissioner Dunn added the subject resolution was to urge Governor Ron DeSantis to veto the named bill, asking her fellow Commissioners to stand with her on this very important environmental issue, so local rights were not preempted by State actions. A motion was made by Commissioner M. Dunn, seconded by Commissioner L. Martin, that this Resolution be approved. The motion carried by the following vote: Yes: 4- Commissioner M. Dunn, Commissioner L. Martin, Commissioner S. Martin, and Mayor K. Thurston Abstain: 0 Off Dais: 1- Vice Mayor D. Grant 9D. RESOLUTION NO. 21R-04-91: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF LAUDERHLL, FLORIDA ESTABLISHING A SUSTAINABILITY AND ENVIRONMENTAL ADVISORY BOARD; DESCRIBING ITS COMPOSITION, AND STATING ITS GOALS, DUTIES, AND FUNCTIONS; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE (REQUESTED BY VICE MAYOR DESNISE D. GRANT). Attachments: RES-21R-04-91-City of Lauderhill Sustainability and Environmental Advisory Board Resolution.pdf AR 21R-04-91 This item was heard first during the meeting. Vice Mayor Grant remarked the City’s overall, attainable goal was to build a more resilient environmental and equitable community. According to a Boston consulting group analysis, the pandemic heightened environmental awareness, with people more concerned about addressing environmental changes, and becoming more committed to changing their own behavior to advance sustainability. The subject advisory board, ideally, would play an intricate role in providing good counsel with the intention of transforming the City of Lauderhill into a successful environmental City of Lauderhill Page 14 City Commission Meeting Meeting Minutes - Final April 26, 2021 model, providing advice and recommendations on environmental issues and work to identify community environmental needs, assess the development of goals and policies, and act as a resource for the public. Prior to assuming the responsibility of a commissioner, as an involved and proactive resident, she interfaced with the City Manager and City Engineer on environmental matters, such as flooding and aging infrastructure; she familiarized herself with scientific verbiage, and sought to understand the associated logistic and operational needs. Vice Mayor Grant stated, as a member of the Lauderhill City Commission, having multiple meetings with the City’s Engineering staff, and applying due diligence in research, she was better able to educate and inform her constituents on the subject matter, and she wished to lead the charge in facilitating conversations concerning a new drainage system, and other underground utility upgrades. Subsequently, she requested the cleaning the City’s catch basin three to four times a year, asking to be informed about lowering the level of Lauderhill’s canals in anticipation of a storm event. A board of such magnitude was of great importance and would add value to the City’s discussions, promoting engagement and establishing clarification on environmental issues. She said sustainability was about the ability to meet the needs of the people and their communities, and organizations, not just in the near future, but on a long-term basis. It was not just about technology, the environment, or being green; with an environmental lens, sustainability was about managing and protecting the Earth’s resources, ecosystems, climate, and atmosphere, so current and future generations would have what they needed to lead a decent life. She indicated the subject resolution sought to create the City of Lauderhill Sustainability and Environmental Advisory Board for the purpose of providing technical assistance, and to advise the Lauderhill City Commission, and make recommendations to the latter in response to climate change and environmental protection. Vice Mayor Grant mentioned the primary responsibility of the subject advisory board was to advise the Commission on strategies and policies with respect to measures to be taken in response to the challenge of global warming, climate change, and other environmental concerns. In support of the subject board, she was pleased to present City of Coral Springs City Commissioner and environmentalist Nancy Mateyer, Dr. Gregory Mount, Water Resource Manager, Barbara Herman, Environ Homeowners’ Association (HOA) president, Sam Chagani, Lauderhill business owner, Lauderhill resident Mae Smith, Jasmin Martin, coordinator in Operations of JePa Organization, Lauderhill, and well informed Lauderhill resident Petagaye Foster. Mayor Thurston thought the members of the City Commission should first have an opportunity to discuss the proposed legislation, as the norm was for a matter of such magnitude to first be presented to the Commission in a workshop forum, rather than at a regular City Commission meeting. Vice Mayor Grant replied, to be fair, the Sierra Club came before the Commission a few months prior and did a detailed presentation, which it seemed members of the Commission supported. At that time, she indicated to the Commission she would bring forth a resolution at a later date for consideration to establish the subject board. Mayor Thurston observed all the named persons attending the present meeting via Zoom were supposed to make a presentation to the Commission without the latter having had a chance to discuss the resolution as a group. City of Lauderhill Page 15 City Commission Meeting Meeting Minutes - Final April 26, 2021 Vice Mayor Grant commented if this was the normal protocol, as described by Mayor Thurston, to which the Commission and staff were subject, the Commission could discuss the resolution first. She believed, however, the Commission had ample time to view the present meeting’s agenda and reach out to City staff, that is, the City Attorney, City Manager, or the City Clerk to voice any concerns. Mayor Thurston clarified, the first time the Commission was able to review the subject resolution as a group was at the present meeting; as it was not presented to the Commission before, there was no opportunity to discuss the resolution as a group. Vice Mayor Grant restated the item was on the Commission’s meeting agenda that was distributed to the Commission since the previous Thursday, ample time until the present meeting for members of the Commission to voice concerns to staff. Mayor Thurston acknowledged the resolution was included in the present meeting’s agenda distributed to the Commission the previous week, and he looked forward to the discussion among his fellow Commissioners. There was no way for any member of the Commission to communicate with each other without violating the Sunshine Law to discuss the matter before the present meeting. Vice Mayor Grant remarked on fully understanding the Sunshine Law and having no desire to violate it, and she respected Mayor Thurston’s position, but any member of the above named City staff could have reached out to her to facilitate a better understanding if any member of the Commission needed additional information. Her position was if the rest of the Commission felt the matter should go to a workshop, she would acquiesce, as she was here for unity for the community, not to create division. Commissioner Dunn supported moving the subject item to a workshop, so the Commission could have a full discussion. She recalled when the Sierra Club made its presentation, and there was a recommendation for the City to create an advisory board, she mentioned the Lauderhill Health & Prosperity Partnership had a built-in environment sub-council tasked with actions similar to those proposed under the subject resolution. There were nine items on the current agenda, and she preferred to have ample time for ample such a discussion. Vice Mayor Grant recalled prior Commission agendas with a greater number of agenda items, and there was never an issue of discussing them at the meeting. Commissioner S. Martin supported the creation of the subject board, but he was unclear if the members were to be chosen by the Commission, asking if the persons Vice Mayor Grant introduced were not meant to be board members. Vice Mayor Grant affirmed the persons whose name she said earlier would not be members of the proposed board, rather they were persons with a vested interest in the Lauderhill community, attending the meeting to speak on the subject item. Commissioner L. Martin supported tabling the item to a workshop to allow more discussion among the members of the Commission. City of Lauderhill Page 16 City Commission Meeting Meeting Minutes - Final April 26, 2021 A motion was made by Commissioner L. Martin, seconded by Commissioner M. Dunn, that this Resolution be tabled to the City Commission Workshop, due back on 5/17/2021. The motion carried by the following vote: Yes: 4- Commissioner M. Dunn, Commissioner L. Martin, Commissioner S. Martin, and Mayor K. Thurston No: 1- Vice Mayor D. Grant Abstain: 0 Vice Mayor Grant asked City Attorney Hall if the individuals who took the time to join the Zoom call to speak on the above resolution could be allowed to say a few words. City Attorney Hall explained when an item was tabled, it was no longer debatable, so the proper procedure when an item was tabled was to simply call for a vote on whether or not to table, and if approved to table, there was no further discussion at that time. Vice Mayor Grant thanked the persons who joined the Commission meeting via Zoom; the time they took and their support of the subject cause was greatly appreciated. They understood her initiative in Lauderhill, as she ran on One Voice, One Lauderhill, and others might have a different agenda. City Attorney Hall noted the workshop would be held on May 17, 2021, at 4:00 p.m. Vice Mayor Grant indicated to the Zoom attendees she would remind them of the workshop date, so they could attend if they wished. Commissioner Dunn clarified she did not believe the City needed no environmental piece, rather, there was already a system in place to get that done, and she looked forward to having that discussion in a workshop. Vice Mayor Grant said there was no system in place in the City, and she had been serving on the City Commission since 2018, working on setting up the proposed program and board since that time. She would not stop her initiatives just because other newly elected members of the Commission established their own, possibly similar, initiatives. Everyone could work together collectively to see the City move forward. Commissioner Dunn added collaboration was something she was always open to, so she thanked Vice Mayor Grant for expressing a willingness to collaborate. XII QUASI-JUDICIAL MATTERS (IF NOT ON CONSENT AGENDA) 10. REMOVED 11. REMOVED 12. REMOVED City of Lauderhill Page 17 City Commission Meeting Meeting Minutes - Final April 26, 2021 XIII QUASI-JUDICIAL MATTERS, FIRST READING XIV QUASI-JUDICIAL MATTERS, SECOND READING XV UNFINISHED BUSINESS XVI OLD BUSINESS XVII NEW BUSINESS XVIII COMMUNICATIONS FROM PUBLIC OFFICIALS AT 9:00 PM, OR IMMEDIATELY BEFORE ADJOURNMENT, WHICHEVER SHALL FIRST OCCUR. IF AN ITEM OF LEGISLATION IS BEING DISCUSSED AT 9:00 PM, THE CHAIR MAY DELAY THESE COMMUNICATIONS UNTIL AFTER THE ITEM OF LEGISLATION HAS BEEN RESOLVED. City Attorney Hall said the City of Lauderhill, probably along with every government in the country, was a part of some form of opioid litigation; Lauderhill was a part of a class of cities that hired a group of law firms to file actions against Johnson & Johnson, Purdue Pharma, etc. The State of Florida took up the lead through the Attorney General’s Office in representing the entire mass of Florida governments in trying to negotiate a settlement on behalf of those governments. He received a communication, of which the Mayor received a copy, of a cover letter and a proposed memorandum of understanding (MOU) that outlined the terms of condition. However, it appeared, although the settlement would be significant, by the time it got down to the local government level, it would be negligent; and, unlike the rescue funds that would go directly into the City’s budget for use on real items, the funds from the MOU had to be used for the treatment and cure of opioid addition. This meant local governments had to redistribute funds in the community to help with addiction. Mr. Hall thought there was little the City could do to better its position, as in an hour-long conversation prior to the present meeting with many other city and county attorneys around the State and the State Attorney’s Office to review the current position, he felt not much could be done to improve the City’s position. He would bring forward at the next Commission meeting a proposal to approve the MOU, and contained in those documents would be the exhibit that detailed the pro rata share the City would receive. Secondly, he wished to remind everyone on April 27, 2021, at 4:00 p.m., the Commission, etc. would meet for a shade meeting at City Hall to discuss the matter of Lauderhill v. Broward County. Commissioner Dunn stated over the last week the City was engaged in a very intense community needs assessment process through the Lauderhill Health & Prosperity Partnership, in collaboration with Nova Southeastern University (NSU) School of Medicine, as well as Children’s Services Council, and 30 additional partners that joined the Lauderhill Health & Prosperity Partnership. Thy hosted a series of focus groups at City Hall and were in the process of administering a survey to gather information to give a clear indication of what the challenges and opportunities were for the Lauderhill community, not just in terms of health and prosperity, but on environmental issues as well. By visiting Lauderhill-fl.gov/lhpp, City of Lauderhill Page 18 City Commission Meeting Meeting Minutes - Final April 26, 2021 one would find information about the Lauderhill Health & Prosperity Partnership community needs assessment process, as well as a link to a survey. She stressed the survey was 100 percent anonymous, so no respondent’s answers would be linked back to them, urging her colleagues to take the survey; most members of the Commission already agreed to sit on one of the sub-councils. The survey was a little lengthy, and respondents would be redirected to NSU School of Medicine’s website that was hosting the survey. She mentioned next week they would have two additional focus groups, one for seniors, and the other for youth, and the dates were noted on the City’s website. Commissioner Dunn said registration was currently open for the Return 2 Work Week initiative, where over 30 employers seeking to hire immediately, including the U.S. Border Patrol, the City of Lauderhill, the City of Sunrise, and a plethora of other employers ready to hire for livable wage positions. Interested persons could go to return2work.us to register, or they could go to the City’s website and type in Return 2 Work, and they would find the information and links. She thought this was an amazing opportunity, not only for people looking for a job or wishing to upgrade to a new job, but for previously incarcerated persons reentering society, for which there would be a workshop geared specifically for them with programs to help them get back into the workforce and find a job with benefits. Commissioner S. Martin reminded everyone of the upcoming Autism Awareness Workshop in Lauderhill at the Do It Yourself (DIY) Studio; anyone knowing someone with autism who could participate and get an identification (ID) card should log on and watch on Lauderhill Facebook Live; they could also reach out to Sergeant Kim Vincent at 954-497-4700. The goal was to help everyone with autism get an ID card and placed in the City’s system to protect them in the future. Commissioner L. Martin acknowledged he represented the City of Lauderhill and the Commission over the past Thursday and Friday at the Lawrence Taylor (LT) Throwback Golf Tournament hosted by Paula Pearson and her Fore Life golf program. The program had been in the City for over 15 years, and the tournament helped raise money for children, specifically those wishing to pursue golf training, etc.; the City had a very vibrant youth golf program. He noted many celebrities attended, and it was a lot of fun, and they had a chance to experience his DJ skills; this event should be an incentive for the City to find a golf course rationale to bring back golf to Lauderhill. The City’s Education Advisory Board Chair, Barika Williams, sent an email to the Commission and/or the City Manager requesting or inquiring if they would receive any funds from the City. He believed they began two years ago giving out scholarships to deserving Lauderhill students, and it was an initiative that was well received; the board understood the City’s budget was severely restricted due to the effects of the COVID 19 pandemic. However, the City was able to allocate a small amount of money, and he directed the board to a few private citizens willing to make donations, as their children took advantage of the initiatives the board presented. He was making a public plea to anyone wishing to contribute to contact the City’s Education Advisory Board, so they could pool the funds in order to help needy students get scholarships to continue what they started. Commissioner L. Martin mentioned Connect Lauderhill, a source that provided all information Lauderhill, including the programs mentioned earlier in the meeting; the information would be sent to residents’ cell phones and email, so there was no need to wait for postings on the City’s website or social media platforms. Persons interested in joining should go to the City’s website, and in the search field type in City of Lauderhill Page 19 City Commission Meeting Meeting Minutes - Final April 26, 2021 connect, and it would take them to a page where they could register to receive news releases, emergencies, programs, seminars, events, etc. He mentioned at Westwind Park, 4550 NW 82nd Avenue, on Saturday, May 1, 2021, at 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., there would be a Lauderhill Tennis Expo & Play Day, with Akasha Urhobo, a talented 14-year-old tennis player who was touted to be further along than the Williams sisters were at her age. Ms. Urhobo, a Lauderhill resident, already won numerous tennis tournaments. Her father and coach, TJ Urhobo, along with others, would conduct tennis clinics, with food trucks and his DJ skills for added entertainment. Everyone was invited to enjoy a series of wonderful activities catering to kids first, so adults were welcome to watch. Vice Mayor Grant remarked, Wednesday, April 27, 2021, at 6:30 p.m., there would be a Zoom forum to empower single mothers; though it was ideal for the two parents to be in a child’s life, this was not always possible. The goal was to encourage single mothers by allowing them to listen to and speak with experts in a variety of industries, share words of encouragement, along with many giveaways. Everyone was invited to attend, and if they knew of a single mother that could benefit from the forum, they should encourage her to join the event. She participated in an initiative where they reached out to Pepsi, along with one of the premier coaches in Lauderhill, and they were able to get $15,000.00 for the Lauderhill Lions soccer club, and this was worthy of congratulations, thanking Pepsi for recognizing the need to assure young Lauderhill players their great talent was recognized, as everyone believed in them and wanted to help them advance. With the donation, the players could participate in more tournaments, and it relieved some of the financial burden on the City’s Parks & Recreation Department. She said the next Unity in the Community event would take place the coming Wednesday; the event engaged the community, and City Commission members and staff, working with HOA presidents, went into particular neighborhoods and engaged with residents, identifying streets and areas in need of more care. They knocked on doors, providing information on various City programs, encouraging residents to become more engaged in their community. Vice Mayor Grant mentioned Lauderhill designated May as Small Business Month, and a slew of events would take place, the first being Lauderhill Business Month virtual launch on Monday, May 3, 2021, with individuals from top industries attending to encourage Lauderhill business owners and provide advice. She indicated the City’s Finance staff and Economic Development staff would be speak about some of the programs available in Lauderhill. The Food Truck Roll was doing well on a monthly basis, and the next event was on Thursday, May 6, 2021, 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., and some 15 to 20 food trucks signed up. Cultural diversity was being celebrated, so foods from various cultures and DJs from different cultures and genres of music would be present to celebrate what Lauderhill stood for. There would be a State of Lauderhill Small Business at which they would discuss access to capital and facilitating growth on Wednesday, May 12, 2021, at 7:00 p.m. Along with other individuals, she would speak about money and capital to assist the City’s businesses. The Economic Development/PPP Partnership engaged about 2,500 Lauderhill businesses, and the aim was to recognize the 30 banks that came on board to assist these businesses. In addition to honoring the banks, the City’s Safe & Clean Pledge engaged some 500 businesses to ensure they were adhering to CDC guidelines, and they had the information they needed to succeed. She mentioned Stacy Ritter, president and CEO of the Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau, who worked closely with her on this initiative, for City of Lauderhill Page 20 City Commission Meeting Meeting Minutes - Final April 26, 2021 which she was very grateful. The Lauderhill Small Business Bus Tour initiative scheduled for Tuesday, May 18, 2021, involved selecting five businesses from the Safe & Clean Pledge campaign, and HOA presidents and investors she contacted would go on the tour to see these businesses, with a hope of encouraging them to invest in Lauderhill. She announced a Lauderhill Doing Business Brunch and Fashion Show in partnership with the Lauderhill Chamber of Commerce, where they would honor persons in the cosmetology industry. She thanked all the WAVS personalities who texted her during the present meeting to voice support for the sustainability & environmental board, which she hoped the Commission would later approve after the Commission workshop at which the matter would be presented. Mayor Thurston said since Lauderhill 6-12 had a graduating class, the City provided a book scholarship to graduates, asking if the City had funds in its current budget to provide such scholarships to the graduating class of 2021. City Manager Giles-Smith asked the Commission to allow her to get back to them with that information. Mayor Thurston added he asked the question in public, so Ms. Giles-Smith could give her answer in public. On the past Friday, the Mayor’s conference call took place, where mayors of the 31 Broward cities were invited by the Broward County Commission Mayor Steve Geller; the primary topic was COVID 19. They hoped the County was moving out of the pandemic, but the present challenge seemed to be vaccine hesitancy, and Mayor Geller thought the best way to reach people was for elected officials, who were closest to residents and had some influence over them, to put campaigns in effect to encourage residents to get vaccinated; this was the way to bring back the economy. He mentioned hearing a commercial earlier in the day stating vaccines were being administered at Central Regional Park to anyone 18 and older without an appointment and at no cost. XIX ADJOURNMENT - 9:50 PM City of Lauderhill Page 21