We had hoped to take measures to compel Seritage to begin cleaning up their mess at the north end of Broward Mall, but they now have some legal cover.

Gov. Ron DeSantis extended an executive order he issued on November 7, 2022, after Hurricane Nicole. The order protects unfinished construction projects from being subject to city penalties.

The executive order was set to expire on March 16, 2023. This would’ve allowed us to start a 90-day deadline clock for the former Sears property. Should Seritage not comply with appropriate cleanup, we could consider action for an abandoned structure. The earliest we can start the 90-day clock is May 3.

Seritage, a real estate offshoot of Sears, purchased about 250 properties nationwide for development. They have since sold off about 150, and our Plantation site, that had been planned as an entertainment hub, is also on the market. We have continually asked Seritage officials for at least a canvas wrap to hide the exposed pipes and air conditioners. Still, no luck. Please know that an array of options is on the table as soon as we can act.

One of the core values of our City is sustainability.  As responsible stewards of the environment, the City has adopted an administrative policy banning the use of polystyrene (styrofoam) products at events taking place on City property or in City facilities.  This prohibition will be incorporated into City contracts and agreements going forward. The City also prohibits intentional release of helium filled balloons on City property.

Broward County Mayor Lamar Fisher visited our March 8 City Council meeting.

Fisher, whose district is in northeast Broward, is trying to connect with all municipalities, he said.

His email is LFisher@Broward.org.

Before becoming mayor, I had been out of the everyday workplace for a few years. Then, for a few Fridays, I kept seeing what I imagined was an overabundance of red shirts worn. Well, I finally asked someone.

Our Public Works, our Building Department and others wear red each Friday as a way to Remember Everyone Deployed. I’m very proud of our employees, and am always happy to learn something new. I’m in.

Our Parks and Recreation Department – well, actually our whole city government – said farewell to Wes Lockard, who is retiring after 22 years. Lockard worked on special events, focusing on scouting musical acts in the area that could make the grade for our popular Rock the Park series.

If you happened to be in line during the pandemic for our food giveaway, you also likely saw Wes. 

He was the one trying to trick you by saying “are you here for the drug test?”

Trivia: Wes was the original Miami Heat “Burnie” mascot, from 1988-2001.