Pet of the Month

“Sydney”

By Nick Sortal

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.

Plate Readers Installed

The Plantation Police Department’s latest crime-fighting tool is something you’d rarely notice: We are in the process of installing 39 automated license plate readers throughout the Gateway District. This technology detects stolen vehicles and wanted criminals and sends real time alerts to police officers in the area. (Surprisingly, once a car is stolen, the thieves often use it to commit more crimes.) It can also help find missing or kidnapped persons.

The police have a methodology for placing the plate readers. This first step is to cover the State Road 7/U.S. 441 area. Plans for the Midtown District and the rest of the city are already under way. This project is expected to continue throughout the rest of the year due to engineering and permitting requirements with Broward County Traffic Engineering and Florida Department of Transportation.

Market on University Tenant

Burton’s Grill and Bar is the new future occupant at Market on University. The restaurant will have 188 seats for indoor dining and 60 for outdoor. There are 18 Burton’s in eight states listed on the company’s web page. The closest one to us is in Boca Raton.

As most of you know, an explosion in 2019 destroyed much of the property at the plaza, including the Carrabba’s Italian Grill on the easternmost end, 1003 S. University Dr. where Burton’s will be located. I did a quick scan at BurtonsGrill.com and don’t have a quick description, other than it seems like a good place. Lobster Shrimp Pasta, bowls, Crème Brulee and Mediterranean Chicken Risotto stick out.

No Styrofoam on City Property

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.

▸ Questions? Reach me at Mayor@Plantation.org