WMG Volume 3 • Issue 14 July 20, 2016
Wilton Manors Gazette
Event
Community
Pets to be Used to Curtail Park Sex
What Will the New 'Drive' Look Like? Designs coming in
By Michael d’Oliveira
Woof & Wine is partly to attract dog owners with their pets to Colohatchee Park and partly to deter those who come to the park for sex. Scheduled for Thursday, Aug. 4 from 6 to 8 p.m., the event will feature wine and appetizers, vendors, giveaways and raffles. Attendees are also encouraged to bring food. Patrick Cann, director of the Leisure Services Department, hopes the event will bring in new as well as existing park users and make people more comfortable with Colohatchee. The more the park’s used by dog owners, said Caan, the less it will be used for sex. “Activity, in terms of programming, certainly helps alleviate the problem,” said Caan. Over the last 10 to 15 years, the park has gained a reputation as a place where gay men go to cruise and have sex with each other on the boardwalk, in the bathroom and other parts of the park. Gay and straight residents alike have expressed dismay at that unwanted reputation. In one of the most recent examples, two men were arrested on May 12 by an undercover detective for fondling each other on the boardwalk. According to police, the two men came to the park to meet each other. They were charged with
By Michael d’Oliveira
lewd behavior and exposing sexual organs. Resident Michael Rajner has repeatedly criticized commissioners for charging dog park owners a permit fee while the park is still used for sex. “Perhaps the city should start issuing permits for those who want to engage in public sex on the boardwalk – just think of the money that could be raised to improve the park,” wrote Rajner sarcastically on Facebook on June 25. Mayoral candidate Boyd Corbin has made cleaning up Colohatchee one of his campaign platforms. “Safer parks for kids & dog owners – stop bathroom sex at Colohatchee Park,” reads his website. “I checked in on Colohatchee Park on Sunday and Monday. Both days there were 5 people hanging out on the boardwalk waiting to have sex in the bathroom. I talked to a few dog walkers there. One said that nothing has changed since she has been going there. Another said there's only half the people waiting to have sex in the bathrooms. Either way it's definitely not a place you'd want to bring your children. And it's still a creepy place to go to walk your dog,” wrote Corbin on Facebook on June 22. Dog owners, who have not registered yet, can do so at the event. The normal rules of the park will be in effect during the event.
WMG
For more information, call 954-390-2130.
It’s your choice. That’s what Dwayne Darbonne, from Metro Consulting Group, told commissioners during his Wilton Drive presentation on July 12. Darbonne, a consultant working with the Florida Department of Transportation, presented two possible concepts to the commission last week. The concepts involve reducing Wilton Drive from four lanes to two to make the street more pedestrian and business friendly, similar to Las Olas Boulevard. “This is your vision,” Darbonne said. “You can’t do the infrastructure and engineering without knowing what the future is.” Although the Wilton Manors officials have unanimously expressed support for narrowing the street, they want more input from residents and business owners before a final decision is made on the design. Both concepts involve shade trees, adding parking spaces and widening sidewalks. The first concept would widen certain sidewalks on both sides of the street. The second would only widen sidewalks on the west side. Officials say public buses, taxis and ride sharing services will also be considered in the design. Darbonne estimates only about two dozen parking spaces will be added. “We’ll do a few more, but it’s not going to be substantial.” Proponents of narrowing the street had hoped for 80 to 100. But the whole street won’t be redesigned.
Darbonne said only portions will be changed to have “the greatest impact, the greatest benefit” with the $2.8 million construction budget provided. But if commissioners want to add additional landscaping or other features after construction is completed, it will have to be funded by the city or through other sources, such as grants. Doug Blevins, chair of the Wilton Drive Improvement District [WDID], said that board would use its funding to help pay for improvements to Wilton Drive. Previously, the majority of WDID members have stated they were in favor of supporting the lane reduction. WDID is funded by an additional tax levied on Wilton Drive property owners. It was approved by a majority of owners. Previously, commissioners were against the lane reduction because the money would have had to come from the city. But now that the cost to alter the street won’t be something the city has to pay for, commissioner support for the project has become, they say, a matter of safety. Fort Lauderdale is narrowing Northeast 4 Avenue from four lanes to two. Officials say that if Wilton Drive is four lanes and Northeast 4 Avenue is only two lanes that will encourage drivers to speed up once they get onto Wilton Drive. “I really see this project as the only way we will slow down traffic in Wilton Manors,” said Commissioner Tom Green. WMG
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Opinion
WMG
Coup d’état
July 20, 2016 • Volume 3 • Issue 14
By Sal Torre
2520 N. Dixie Highway • Wilton Manors, FL 33305 Phone: 954-530-4970 Fax: 954-530-7943
I only hope that everyone is safe and sound by the time they read this article. Last night a coup took place here in Wilton Manors, led by a band of community leaders who could no longer tolerate being marginalized and out of favor. The final humiliation must have been when the City Commission voted not to reappoint John F. to his long-held committee position. Feeling de-frocked and angry, John found it easy to join forces with Celeste E., another disenfranchised face of the past, to plot their coup and establish rule once more over our fair city. At this time. I am holed up in a bunker camouflaged as a Sewer Lift Station on NW 5th Avenue. Luckily, fellow Westsider Jon O. and I discovered this secret location a few weeks ago investigating the Lift Station after it was hit by a drunken vacation rental visitor to our welcoming city. John and Celeste successfully convinced Jake V. to join forces, promising him his own fiefdom on the Westside. Jake supplied the muscle they needed, and with his help, they were successful in blowing up all bridges leading in and out of the city. In addition, Jake supplied the manpower to cordon off and secure Jenada Isles, placing our Mayor under house arrest and turning the isle into a prison camp. With all the bridges out, our law enforcement personnel could not make it back into town with their take-home vehicles, and the city was left defenseless at the end of a twelve-hour shift that was lightly staffed due to a recent rash of “Blue Flu” caused by contract negotiations going sour over the 22 percent pay raise that they were demanding. Once securing the city, the coup leaders set their sights on those who would either help them or be a risk to their plot. Mike d’O was quickly convinced to join, after being promised title to the Kiwanis Club site. Now they had control of the press and would receive favorable headlines from the Gazette, now the official newspaper of the land. Other collaborators quickly lined up for their spoils. Surprisingly though, Kate D. resisted to the end, holed up on NW 7th Ave with extensive firepower and ferocious terriers to assist with her resistance. Now it was on to the rest of the City Commission. Julie was safely out of the city, enjoying a lovely evening on her tropical island getaway, St Croix. Justin was given time to make it to a safe house, due to John F.’s inability to find NW 30th Court, since any respectable Eastsider has not
Community
crossed Andrews Avenue in years. Tom also was able to slip through the coup’s tightening grip over the city, disguised as a bar back from Infinity Lounge, able to fool his pursuers by pretending to empty the recycle bin out back. Scott was left alone, the coup leaders knowing that he would be ready to work with whoever was in power. Jeff H. quickly dispatched a message that he was willing to join forces with the coup. His price, a decree relieving him from having to pay the draconic fees levied on his vacation home properties. Coup leaders quickly gave in to his demands, happy to have such a vast landowner join with their forces. Other collaborators included Nick B., owner of popular nightspots around town. After gaining assurances that his neon lights would be allowed to shine brightly up and down Wilton Drive and beyond, he quickly offered his skills at operating a large supply chain utilizing boats and planes from his experience trafficking a certain product many years prior. Now the only thing left for the coup to succeed is to find the cash/ wealth to fuel the next few weeks as they continue to secure the city and establish their new order. I heard talk that they were looking for the secret stash of wealth that the Mayor has successfully raised from his campaigns. Good luck, as I am sure Eric already put that money to good use or has secured it somewhere outside the Jenada walls. If all else fails, the leaders can always impose a levy on the bars along Wilton Drive, other than Rumors of course, to pay coinage to the new realm so that their doors could remain open during Happy Hour and beyond. So this may be the new Wilton Manors. Hopefully our Commissioners-in-hiding can rally the forces and take back our city. Although some residents might find the goose-stepping up and down the Drive appealing, I for one want our city back just the way it was-wonderful!! On a more serious note, tragic news seems to be coming at us on a more and more frequent basis. Innocent bystanders are plowed down in Nice, police officers are shot dead in our cities, politicians are spewing hatred, racism, bigotry and lies, and the world is becoming a more violent place. Through all the tragedy and hate, let us carry on with a sense of humor, a bit of joy, and please don’t forget to laugh! That’s because, life is just better here… WMG
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Need an Energy Upgrade for Your Home? New options for property owners through PACE program
By Michael d’Oliveira Before last week, a homeowner who wanted a new roof would have had to pay for it all at once or take out a loan. But now that Wilton Manors has opted into Broward County’s Property Assessed Clean Energy [PACE] program, home and business owners can make expensive energy-related repairs and spread out the cost. The program, approved July 12 by commissioners, allows property owners to install energy efficient air conditioning units, cool roofs, windows, insulation, solar panels, solar water heaters, wind turbines and other energy-related improvements. Much like a loan, borrowers can pay back the cost over a long period of time. Property
owners who use the program pay for their improvements through an assessment on their annual property tax bill. “I hope people will take advantage of this,” said Commissioner Tom Green. In May, Vice Mayor Scott Newton said he brought up PACE as a way to make it easier for homeowners to make improvements to their property which, in turn, would benefit the city. Although approved by the county and multiple cities in Broward, PACE does not involve any government funding or risk. The financing for improvements is provided by private companies. Renew Financial and Ygrene have been approved by Broward
to administer the program. If a borrower defaults on the loan and fails to pay the tax, the lender can get their money back when the building is sold. The Broward County Commission approved its program on June 14. To qualify for PACE, improvements must be permitted and installed by licensed contractors and must meet all relevant federal, state, and local energy, wind and building code standards. Other Broward cities participating in PACE are Pompano Beach, Oakland Park, Lauderdale-By-TheSea, Lighthouse Point, North Lauderdale, Plantation, Copper City, Davie, Coconut Creek and Tamarac. WMG
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July 20, 2016
Locals Angry Over New Development
Community
“We don’t want to be Miami,” says one concerned resident
By Michael d’Oliveira More chairs had to be added to accommodate those who attended the Planning and Zoning Board hearing Monday night. The majority who spoke were against the proposed residential development at the former Center for Spiritual Living site at Northeast 26 Street and Northeast 15 Avenue. The developers, UDC, said they want a maximum of 100 condo units and change the land-use from its current commercial designation to medium high residential – 25 units per acre. The property is estimated at approximately 4.9 acres. The number of units could be lowered but developers say they won’t go higher than 100. Plans include condo units, villas, gardens, a public park on the south side of the property, community rooms and pools. It will also be LEED certified and developers said they declined to add any commercial space to keep the traffic impact to the neighborhood at a minimum. They also promised no units would be used for vacation rentals. Three access points will exist – two exit only and one entrance/exit. “The developers are trying to create a high end product,” said project architect Rene Gonzalez. Gonzalez, who grew up in Fort Lauderdale and Wilton Manors, said the project has special meaning to him. “This project is a project I’m treating with special care.” Planning and Zoning members unanimously approved the project. Planning and Zoning member Constance Ruppender called it a beautiful project. “It looks good. It looks way
different than it did before.” Chair Nick Berry said the project could have a positive impact on the shopping plaza where Old Florida Seafood House was located. Dennis Mele, of Greenspoon Marder, the law firm representing the developers, said the density is lower than that of most other residential developments, such as Wilton Station and Belle Isle. He also said that the traffic impact could have been much higher if commercial were built. Roberta Moore, Community Development Services director, said staff had reviewed and approved the traffic study. But residents took issue, saying it wasn’t a fair comparison because the church property has been virtually vacant for years and brought in very few vehicles. Now, it will be up to the city commission to approve or reject the project. In 2013, commissioners voted to approve a different version of the project by the same developers – a 72-unit apartment complex. But commissioners said they only approved the project to allow developers the opportunity to make some changes and come back before the commission. Before a second and final vote was held, the Center for Spiritual Living, the former landowners, sued UDC and the project was delayed. The lawsuit was eventually settled. But although no one criticized the aesthetics of the project, and at least one person against it gave compliments on multiple aspects, residents had plenty to say about much of the rest. Wearing red shirts, those against the proposal said it was too
Business
Politics
Neon Sign Ban to Stay in Place Business owners call code “anti-business”
Commission Approves City Board Attendance Rules
You’ll be booted if you miss 3 consecutive meetings
By Michael d’Oliveira Neon signs may soon be a thing of the past in this city. On July 12, a resolution that would have directed code enforcement to refrain from enforcing the ban on neon signs failed to find support from the commission. Under the current code, neon signs are banned. “Today it’s neon signs. But what’s next?” asked Vice Mayor Scott Newton. Commander Gary Blocker said code enforcement would schedule a meeting with city staff members so “we’re all on the same page and identify what direction the city wants to go in.” Mayor Gary Resnick said not enforcing the regulations on neon signs could lead to their proliferation in residential areas. Resident and business owner Nick Berry called the neon sign ban “antibusiness” and said the commission had an “opportunity to be pro-business” by letting the signs stay in place. Commissioner Julie Carson said she counted 176 neon displays on Wilton Drive,
dense and would hurt the quality of life and the character of their quiet neighborhood by increasing traffic. They suggested 40 units would be more appropriate. “We don’t want to be Miami . . . with the glut of condos,” Elsie Chan said. “Years ago we would take any development because we were so desperate. We don’t have to do that anymore,” said John Fiore, former mayor and vice president of the East Neighborhood Association [ENA]. “This is the most significant piece of development land in Wilton Manors,” said ENA President Martin Nixon. Karl Lentzer, president of the Wilton Manors Business Association, said the project could attract new people to the city and add money to the city budget through property taxes and other revenue streams. “It’s really time Wilton Manors has a project of this stature.” Resident Michael Rajner echoed Lentzer, saying the project was beautiful and different. “Having world class buildings is important.” WMG
By Michael d’Oliveira
with most of them being “open” signs. “Nobody really knows if you’re open [without a sign]. That’s not what I want to happen.” Sal Torre, president of the Westside Association of Wilton Manors, said the city was sending “very mixed messages” by debating whether or not to enforce its own code. Commissioner Justin Flippen said the entire code section on signs should be rewritten so that the commission doesn’t have to repeatedly address similar issues. After the city reviews its sign rules, allowing neon could be one of the suggestions approved by the commission but Resnick expressed a desire to forego neon in favor of LED signs, which are much more energy efficient. “We have a green building code. Neon is the most un-green thing you can do.” WMG
Those who volunteer to be on city boards, advisory committees and task forces are repeatedly applauded by commissioners for giving their time and talent in service of the city. Commissioners now want to ensure those chosen to serve are attending enough meetings and keeping the boards, committee and task forces functioning. On July 12, commissioners voted to require the automatic removal of any member of a board, committee or task force who unjustifiably misses 25 percent of their meetings or three consecutive meetings, whichever is less. “Consistency is important,” said Commissioner Justin Flippen. Commissioner Julie Carson said she was glad nothing was being left up to discretion. “You either commit yourself or you don’t get on,” said Nick Berry, who is chair of the Planning and Zoning Board and chair of the Economic Task Force. Doug Blevins, chair of the Wilton Drive
Improvement District, reiterated his call for term limits on city commissioners as well as board, committee and task force members. Blevins wants to see more “fresh blood” make decisions in all levels of appointed and elected positions. Commissioners also approved a mandatory Sunshine training for board, committee and task force members. Because they deal with issues that impact the city in an official capacity, members are required to follow Sunshine laws, which were passed to ensure transparency in government. Mayor Gary Resnick said people need to be given the tools to understand how important the Sunshine law is. “This is what people can go to jail for.” WMG
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July 20, 2016
Business
Andrews Ave May See Financial Windfall Area now eligible for federal funding
By Michael d’Oliveira It’s not a distinction Sal Torre wants for his neighborhood. At the July 12 commission meeting, Torre, president of the Westside Association of Wilton Manors [WAWM], jokingly lamented about the fact that WAWM, the area of the city located west of Andrews Avenue, is now eligible for Community Block Grant [CDBG] funding. CDBG funds, which are provided by the federal government, are given out on an annual basis and can be used in lower income neighborhoods. The purpose is to improve the lives of low to moderate income individuals or neighborhoods. In years past, only the Highlands Estates neighborhood was eligible for funding. “It gives us more opportunities to do things,” said Todd DeJesus, capital projects and grants manager. But now that the area west of Andrews Avenue is eligible, Torre was one of the first to offer suggestions on how the money, estimated at $64,000 if approved, is spent by the city. Those suggestions were improvements
to sidewalks, lighting and adding shade rest areas for pedestrians. And city officials say they want more suggestions. Past projects in Highlands Estates include road resurfacing, drainage, crosswalks and fencing and an emergency generator at Island City Park Preserve. Tracy Stafford, former State Representative and Wilton Manors mayor who uses a wheelchair, urged commissioners to do as much as they can to ensure people in wheelchairs can easily navigate sidewalks and crosswalks. Grant requirements, said DeJesus, demand that the money be spent on one project rather than several. Residents can submit ideas directly to the city or attend the next public hearing on the issue, scheduled during the Aug. 23 commission meeting. After the community gives its input, commissioners will make a decision and apply for the funds. Applications are due in December. WMG
Briefs
Around Town
Photo: Facebook.
Check out what’s happening
By Michael d’Oliveira
National Night Out parties held Aug. 2 National Night Out [NNO] is a partnership between residents and their police department. Every year, residents hold parties in their neighborhoods. It’s an opportunity for the public and local law enforcement to meet and forge relationships. The hope is that those relationships will lead to residents becoming more vigilant about what is going on in their neighborhoods and that they will call the police when they see suspicious activity going on. This year’s NNO in Wilton Manors will be held on Tuesday, Aug. 2 from 6 to 9 p.m. The confirmed NNO parties are located at 664 NW 30 Ct., 509 NW 28 St., 300 NW 21 Ct., 732 NW 29 St., 2000 NE 2 Ave., 3002 NE 5 Terr. #207, 1017 NE 28 Dr., 2749 NE 14 Ave., 1512 NE 28 Dr. and 2040 N. Dixie Hwy.
Attendees are asked to bring a covered dish. Visit WiltonManors.com/index. aspx?NID=305 for more information. WMG
Bowling Tournament Benefits Shepherds A bowling tournament to benefit Shepherd Help And Rescue Effort [S.H.A.R.E.] will be held on Saturday, Aug. 13 from 3 to 7 p.m. at Manor Lanes, 1517 NE 26 St., Wilton Manors. S.H.A.R.E. volunteers rescue German shepherds, educate the public about kill shelters and raise money for vaccinations, dog food and other
supplies. The cost to bowl is $20 per person. Bowlers must pre-register. A party will be held for bowlers after the event. The cost is $10 for bowlers and $20 for non-bowlers. Two drinks, beer or wine, are included for the price of the party. There will also be raffle prizes and an auction. Visit ShepherdHelp.org to register. WMG
Budget workshops The city’s first budget workshop will be held on Tuesday, July 26 at 6:30 p.m. in the city commission chambers, 2020 Wilton Drive. The second budget workshop will be held on Wednesday, July 27 at 6:30 p.m.
A tentative millage rate and special assessment rates will be set at that meeting. The third budget workshop will be held Tuesday, Aug. 23 at 6:30 p.m. WMG
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