Page 24 - HB1025

Commissioner’s Message

Neighbors,

he Fort Lauderdale Commission has officially adopted the Fiscal Year 2026
budget and millage rate. I am pleased to share that this year’s budget maintains
Tthe current millage rate, with no increase. The City’s general fund totals nearly
$1.2 billion and supports a wide range of essential services, from parks, human
services, and public safety, and beyond. Approving the annual budget is one of the
Commission’s most important responsibilities, as it sets the foundation for how we
invest in our community. I am grateful for the valuable input provided by neighbors
and the Budget Advisory Board, which helped ensure that this budget reflects the
priorities of our community.
Ben Sorensen Several other great things are happening in our city that I would like to share with
District 4 Commissioner you. Many of your favorite parks across the city are receiving major upgrades. All
bsorensen@fortlauderdale.gov
the parks bond projects in District 4 are moving forward. Join me for a District 4
Virtual Parks Bond Meeting on Friday, October 10th at 2PM. Register in advance by
scanning the QR code. There are also numerous waterway initiatives taking effect
City of Fort Lauderdale before the end of 2025, such as oyster rope installations along the New River and
1 E. Broward Blvd., Ste. 444 mangrove plantings at Coontie Hatchee Park and New River Middle School.
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
Hurricane and King Tide Preparedness

Office Contact This year’s Kind Tides are predicted for the following dates:
Sabrina Javellana 1. October 5-12 2. October 19-23
Chief of Staff 3. November 2-10 4. December 2-7
sjavellana@fortlauderdale.gov
Hurricane season runs through November 30th.
Vicki Gargano
Be proactive!
Community Outreach Director
vickig@fortlauderdale.gov 1. Inspect your seawall and provide regular maintenance. If it is overtopping during
954.828.5028 King Tide events, be proactive in elevating it to the City’s current standard.

2. Be prepared with flood protection measures such as sandbags, which are a
useful tool to secure door thresholds. Sandbags are available for Fort Lauderdale
residents on the first Saturday and Sunday of each month through November at
George English Park, Holiday Park, Mills Pond Park, the Floyd Hull/Morton Center
and Riverland Park. For details, visit fortlauderdale.gov/stormready.
3. It is crucial to understand your flood insurance coverage. Review your policy and
visit fortlauderdale.gov/flood for more information on flood insurance, rate maps,
and property protection ideas.
4. Visit ftlcity.info/seawall to familiarize yourself with the City’s tidal barrier
ordinance, which may impact your property.
5. T o learn more about how to stay safe, review flood safety tips at
fortlauderdale.gov/kingtides.
Please reach out anytime - you can contact me at bsorensen@fortlauderdale.gov, my
cell at (954)-270-2302, or my office at (954)-828-5028. HB
Thank you!
Ben Sorensen
Fort Lauderdale City Commissioner, District 4

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