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Dear District 1 Residents,

                                               I
                                                 would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who has reached out to share
                                                 their concerns and ideas regarding the important issue of homelessness. As your
                                                 Commissioner, I want to reassure you that addressing homelessness remains a top
                                                priority for our Commission. We are committed to finding effective solutions and
                                                collaborating with our community to create a compassionate, long-term response to
                                                this challenge.
                                                One of the most powerful tools available to you as residents is the FixItFTL app. With
                                                the recent passage of HB 1365, the City of Fort Lauderdale updated its ordinances,
                                                designating the FixItFTL app as the official channel for reporting non-emergency
                                                homelessness issues. This app simplifies the process of reporting concerns such as
                                                encampments or individuals in need of support. By using FixItFTL, issues are directed
                                                to the appropriate resources quickly, helping to ensure timely responses.
                 John Herbst                    For your convenience, I’ve included a link with instructions on how to download and
                District 1 Commissioner         use the app: www.fortlauderdale.gov/government/departments-a-h/city-manager-s-
                City of Fort Lauderdale         office/strategic-communications/lauderserv/lauderserv-mobile-app
              jherbst@fortlauderdale.gov
                                                It’s important to remember that in cases of emergencies or immediate safety concerns,
                                                you should always contact 911. For non-urgent matters related to homelessness,
                                                FixItFTL is the preferred method of communication. In addition to the FixItFTL app, the
                                                City has implemented a comprehensive network of initiatives designed to address
                                                homelessness. These efforts focus on both immediate needs and long-term solutions to
                                                help individuals find stability and support. Some of the key initiatives include:
                                                1. Homeless Outreach Team – A dedicated team that works directly with individuals
                                                experiencing homelessness, connecting them with essential services, such as
                                                healthcare, housing, and employment support.
                City of Fort Lauderdale         2. Community Court Program – This program offers an alternative to punitive measures
              1 E. Broward Blvd., Ste. 444      by helping individuals experiencing homelessness access the resources they need, such
              Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301         as mental health services and rehabilitation programs, rather than facing jail time.
                                                3. Fort Lauderdale Police Department Homeless Taskforce – This taskforce ensures a
                                                coordinated, compassionate approach to addressing homelessness while balancing
                                                the need for public safety.
                                                4. Partnerships with Broward County and the Taskforce for Ending Homelessness – The
                                                City works closely with these partners to create regional solutions that focus on long-
                                                term strategies for ending homelessness.

                   Office Contact                In addition to these initiatives, I encourage you to participate in the decision-making
                                                process by attending the Homeless Advisory Committee meetings. This committee
                  Melissa Whiddon
            District 1 Commission Assistant     provides a platform for residents to voice their concerns, offer feedback, and learn more
             mwhiddon@fortlauderdale.gov        about ongoing efforts to address homelessness in Fort Lauderdale. The committee meets
                   954.828.5033
                                                every second Thursday of the month at 1:00 PM at 101 NE 3rd Avenue, Ste. 1100,
                   Amanda Foor                  Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301.
            District 1 Commission Assistant
               afoor@fortlauderdale.gov         Together, we can continue to make a meaningful impact on this critical issue. By
                    954.828.6132
                                                working collaboratively and with compassion, we can create lasting solutions that
                                                address homelessness with both immediate care and long-term stability. Your input and
                                                involvement are essential to the success of these efforts. Thank you once again for your
                                                commitment to this cause. I look forward to continuing our work together to build a
                                                stronger, more compassionate community.
                                                Warm regards,

                                                John Herbst, CPA
                                                District 1 Commissioner
                                                City of Fort Lauderdale


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