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South Florida’s most influential people weigh in on current events. Read their thoughts on the biggest stories of the week and see what they think will make headlines next week.
Ina Lee, president Travelhost Elite of Greater Fort Lauderdale
Last week: President Trump’s move to pull out of the Paris Climate Change Agreement is unconscionable .The agreement which would have cut 26 to 28 percent of emissions is vital for the survival of our planet for generations to come. Despite pleas from NATO stakeholders and the pope, Trump’s commitment to pull out puts us in the company of only two other countries, Syria and Nicaragua, to not ratify the agreement. Shame on the politicians and special interest groups that have put greed ahead of the future of our planet.
Sheldon Harr, founding rabbi emeritus, Temple Kol Ami Emanu-El
Last week: This past week marked the holiday of Shavuot. Originally an agricultural holiday, it is in Jewish tradition associated with the giving of the Torah (The Five Books of Moses) at Mt. Sinai, with specific and central emphasis on the Ten Commandments. While we as a nationa should never and, I presume, will never be bound by religious laws, we must admit that some religious laws and messages, adopted and adapted, might be helpful as we try to right the wrongs that humanity as imposed not only upon humanity itself, but the fragile environment we share together – this magnificent world of nature, for which we bear responsibility.
Looking ahead: Must everything be measured as a “deal?” Does an often inaccurate bottom line alone dictate policy? Are there ever any meaningful values which impel us to do what is patently right and moral? Life presents us with choices, not all of which are stark contrasts of black and white. But when the President of the United States casts our country’s vote against clean air, clear water, and verdant land, after President Obama gathered 195 countries to accept the non-binding goal-setting Paris Accord, something is seriously wrong in Washington. This goes beyond politics. It is a venture toward our own self-destruction.
Archbishop Thomas Wenski, Archdiocese of Miami
Last week: 58,000 Haitian recipients of TPS contribute to our communities and assist in facilitating economic recovery and development in Haiti by sending money to their families. Returning these individuals in six months to a country that remains vulnerable to future disasters and where millions continue to need aid is not a humanitarian response. The Haitians need a remedy that provides an option to remain permanently in the United States. After seven or more years, they have deep roots in our community, including many American-born children. The large Haitian community, with so many naturalized citizens remains a significant segment of Florida’s population.
Looking ahead: The death penalty represents the failure of modern society to fulfill the moral demands of justice. Justice demands that society begin with the recognition that each human person is created in the image and likeness of God and must work in all its endeavors towards the benefit of the human person. The state sanctioned execution of over 1400 people since 1977, as well as the nearly 3,000 people currently on death row, is an affront to human dignity. It’s time to end capital punishment in the U.S.
Howard Simon, executive director, ACLU of Florida
Last week: Last week, the U.S. Supreme Court’s rejected Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi’s attempt to reinstate death sentences handed down by a non-unanimous jury. Florida was one of only three states to impose death without the unanimous agreement of a jury. As a result, our death row grew to the nation’s second largest death row with more than 400 prisoners. The court’s decision that Florida’s scheme violated the Constitution should be applauded. It is inconsistent with any sense of justice that a unanimous jury is required to find someone guilty, but a simple majority can put someone to death.
Looking ahead: The story of this week will be the much anticipated Congressional testimony of fired FBI Director James Comey. His testimony before a Congressional Committee gives the issue of Russia’s interference in our elections the public airing that it warrants. But while his testimony will be important, it is the work of the special counsel Robert Mueller that will be critical. And it is critical that Mueller’s investigation encompass not just the meddling with our elections, its impact, and how we can safeguard our democratic institutions going forward, but also the Trump administration’s apparent efforts to interfere with that investigation.
Mike Ryan, mayor, Sunrise
Last week: Why do we pay more for prescriptions drugs than the rest of the world? Now, the industry of pharmacists, middlemen and drug makers are blaming each other for soaring costs. Big Pharma allegedly spends double other business sectors on lobbying. Fearing a legislative response to soaring prescription costs, it was reported Big Pharma spent $78 million on lobbying during first quarter of 2017 and poured $58 million into the 2016 election cycle. Next, reportedly, Big Pharma is going to launch a $100 million public influence campaign. Until these costs are controlled, we continue subsidize overblown profits for multi-national drug companies.
Looking ahead: On Saturday June 10 at 8 AM, as part of the Broward MPO’s commitment to safer streets, we are celebrating the launch of the Sunset Strip Complete Streets project in the City of Sunrise. I will join the community to ride a bicycle through the proposed corridor to celebrate the groundbreaking of this important project. Communities understand the need to try innovative designs to encourage walkability, cycling, healthy living and general safety of neighborhood streets. There are also foreseeable economic benefits, including increased property values, for the community. Join us to experience what is possible when we work together.
Frederick Lippman, chancellor of health professions division, Nova Southeastern University
Last week: Kudos to the Florida Legislature for recognizing the importance of protecting our state’s environment and natural resources. The recently passed budget sent to the governor includes a nearly 19 percent increase (nearly $272 million) in funding for the Department of Environmental Protection. More than half of $1.7 billion budgeted will be dedicated to managing the state’s water resources, including $282 million to protect the Everglades, Florida’s most precious natural resource. This is something all Floridians should be proud to support.
Looking ahead: The insidious problem with opioid addiction, and its dire impact on young Floridians in particular, is once again tearing at the fabric of our society. About every 10-15 years we laser focus our attention on this transgressive and cyclical problem, but we as a society are not fully involving ourselves in the future of our vibrant and capable young population, which is where the majority of opioid-related deaths occur. Broward County residents are affected at one of the highest rates in Florida, and we as a community can and must find a solution for this problem.
Ted Deutch, member, U.S. House of Representatives
Last week: With this year’s hurricane season now upon us, it’s important to be prepared for what the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration promises to be a busy season. Last week, on the first day of hurricane season, I visited Broward County’s Emergency Operations Center to see how our local governments are preparing. It is important for our community to be ready and stay informed. Be sure to check Broward (@ReadyBroward) and Palm Beach (@PBCDEM) emergency management twitter accounts for local, up-to-date information. You can also visit my website (www.Deutch.House.Gov) for more resources. Be prepared and stay safe!
Looking ahead: During six days in early June 1967, the fledgling state of Israel defied all odds and defeated multiple enemies sworn to destroy her. On June 7, the young Israeli soldiers fought their way through the Old City and reunified Jerusalem, the eternal capital of the Jewish State of Israel. Though Yom Yerushalayim was celebrated a few weeks ago, the English anniversary of Jerusalem’s reunification reminds the world that Jerusalem is open to all religions that hold the city as a holy place.
Linda B. Carter, president, Community Foundation of Broward
Last week: Last week celebrated the 50th anniversary of the release of Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band I remember buying my first album with my allowance — Magical Mystery Tour, the next Beatles album. Though only a pre-teen, I felt so grown-up as this was my music, not my parents. As I listened (and sang along) to Beatles tunes in my car this week I was struck how the power of the arts can define a generation, express the mood of a nation, and transport you to another place in time — all within a 3 minute song.
Paul Castronovo, host, Paul Castronovo Show
Last week: The news hit like a thunderbolt. Am I talking about Trump pulling out of the climate agreement? The “Covfefe” tweet that shook the world? No, much worse. Within five years, 1 in 4 shopping malls in America will close. Do you know what this means? Well, a few things. First, e-commerce is alive and well, you know it’s a problem when your wife knows the UPS driver by his first name. Second, buy Amazon stock immediately and finally, the good news: I don’t have to go to the mall anymore, holding my wife’s purse while she tries on shoes. #silverlining
Irela Bagué, president, Bagué Group
Last week: Forecasters predict that the 2017 hurricane season will likely bring an increase in the number of storms we can expect to form over the Atlantic. These predictions are due to warmer than average temperatures and the development of El Niño. Now is not only the time to prepare, but it is also a good time to remind Congress that NOAA, NASA and USGS funding should not be cut regardless of what the president’s budget recommends. These are mission critical agencies that provide the forecasting and storm tracking our communities need to better prepare.
Looking ahead: As expected, the President withdrew the U.S. from the Paris Climate Agreement, contending that staying in the agreement would be bad for business. If that’s true, then why did over 360 top U.S. companies and investors urge the president not to withdraw. This move will likely go down in history as one of the most irrational decisions ever made by a president in the 21st Century with disregard for the consequences and implications placed on the backs of future generations as well as the health of the planet. This is what climate leadership does NOT look like.
Stephanie Toothaker, attorney, Tripp Scott
Last week: The Florida Senate sent Governor Scott a $82.4 billion budget this week. Pontificating pundits wonder just how far he will go after weeks of waving around his veto pen. With the real possibility of a U.S. Senate run against Senator Nelson, Scott is sure to be balancing the political opportunities versus risks. Does he just line item veto the more controversial components? Does he flip the table over and veto the whole budget? The Governor’s recent comments about a lack of legislative transparency and his well-known frustration at losing significant economic development flexibility suggest dramatic decisions. Stay tuned.
Looking ahead: While the country remains torn on the thrashing about of President Trump, Kathy Griffin went too far this week. Her posting of an ISIS-inspired bloody, decapitated Trump look-a-like head simply was not funny. Related reports about rocker Ted Nugent’s outrageous past post threatening former President Obama prove that there is a responsible line past which one should not go. We need to be mindful about teaching our children what is acceptable and appropriate — and about respect for the office of the president, even if you don’t like the current tenant.
Michael De Lucca, president, Broward Regional Health Planning Council, Inc.
Last week: Our children’s safety is our number one priority. In 2015, there were over 600 deaths of children throughout the United States due to motor vehicle accidents. Newell Brands recently distributed an urgent notice across America regarding a recall of Graco car seats sold during May and August of 2014. Visit Gracobaby.com to register for a free replacement kit or to find more information about this important recall. We need to prevent the number of deaths and injuries caused by car accidents by making sure our children sit in the safest car seats.
Looking ahead: Today is the last day to take advantage of the three-day sales tax free holiday weekend. There will be no tax sales on school supplies and hurricane necessities such as tarps, generators, batteries and first aid kits. This is estimated to save shoppers $4.5 million this year. We must always be prepared for hurricanes and natural disasters as they can form quickly and cause damage that lasts a long time. Stay prepared and get your supplies today.
Scott J. Israel, sheriff, Broward County
Last week: A five-year-old girl lost her life Memorial Day weekend in a tragic drowning accident in a North Lauderdale pool. Sadly, her death will likely not be the last this summer. Though drowning is 100 percent preventable, it is the leading cause of death of children ages one to four in Broward and the majority of deaths occur in residential pools while children are unattended. Keep your family safer this summer by becoming more prepared and more aware. Teach your kids how to swim; secure your pool with barriers; and always maintain an eagle eye on your children around water.
Michael Dennis, M.D.,, chairman, Florida Atlantic University Schmidt College of Medicine
Last week: Tragedy fills the news with seemingly endless disasters like the ISIS suicide bombing in Manchester and the insane stabbings in Portland. Want some good news? A recent report described how Israelis are sharing their solar panel energy production expertise with over 100 villages in seven African countries. These poor people had no vaccines or medications for lack of refrigeration in medical centers. They had no lights for aiding children’s education and very importantly, no way to pump fresh water. Israel has transformed its own country through these power sources. Kudos to them for this effort and their tzedakah (charitable generosity).
Looking ahead: Undoubtedly South Florida and Cuba are intertwined culturally, economically, politically and emotionally. But there are deep concerns about Cuban policies, especially those controlled by the Revolutionary Armed Forces (FAR) of the Republic. Sen. Marco Rubio, Sen. Bob Menendez and Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart have effectively argued for a reversal of the previous administration’s policy by proposing increased enforcement relating to travel and discouraging transactions with FAR entities. They emphasize the ongoing history of torture and oppression and the systematic curtailment of freedom. The non-partisan U.S.-Cuba Trade and Economic Council has confirmed that Trump will soon announce major changes.
Marlon A. Hill, partner, Hamilton, Miller & Birthisel
Last week: As one of the world’s celebrated tourist destinations, we can certainly walk and sip on a mojito at the same time. The leadership of Miami Beach and industry stakeholders must confront the realities of balancing the benefits of tourism and the challenges of public safety. “Urban Beach Weekend” should not be the sole poster child for the creation of a municipal policy for hosting happy and safe visitors and a peace of mind for residents. Our brand demands that we get this right on behalf of all who support our economy. We are not a police state. We are the Sunshine State.
Barbara M. Sharief, mayor, Broward County
Looking ahead: The new international Concourse A at Terminal 1 at the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport will open at the end of June and you’ll love what you see. The $200 million concourse features new stores and restaurants. A bright and open interior welcomes passengers to new seating with individual power outlets. The terrazzo floors compliment the amazing works of public art and special features that include water bottle filling stations, moving walkways, and a children’s play area. Altogether 307,000 square feet has been added taking our airport to the next level as we welcome record setting visitor and passengers every year.
Nan Rich, member, Broward County Commission
Last week: Just in time for Memorial Day, I had the privilege of attending the fifth anniversary celebration of the Broward Veteran’s Treatment Court. The court was established as an alternative to the traditional court to help avoid unnecessary incarceration of veterans who have developed mental health and/or substance abuse problems as a result of combat-related trauma. More than 600 veterans have entered the program to date. Congratulations to Judge Ed Merrigan, a veteran and colonel in the U.S. Army, who compassionately presides over the court, providing veterans with the treatment and support they need to successfully integrate back into society.
Frank Ortis, mayor, Pembroke Pines
Last week: A bill that cracks down on the synthetic opioid fentanyl is now before our governor. There was much debate about the bill which imposes mandatory sentences for people who traffic in the drug. The reality is that our country is dealing with an opioid crisis. As a commission, we support battling this problem head on. Fentanyl has been linked to a surge of overdose deaths in our state, and something must be done. Getting tough on those who sell it is a positive step in the right direction. This legislation will help combat trafficking of this dangerous and deadly drug.
Looking ahead: A new law, effective October 1, targets anti-terrorism in Florida. It establishes state criminal charges and boosts penalties for engaging in or supporting terrorism or terrorist activities that result in death or injuries. It also prohibits military-type training with federally designated foreign terrorist organizations which is important. This is now the world we live in. Last year’s attack at the Pulse nightclub in Orlando hit too close to home and brought terrorism to our state. These kinds of laws ensure proper punishment, however, now we must figure out what can be done to prevent such attacks in the first place.
Tim Ryan, member, Broward County Commission
Last week: Wages for Florida workers remained flat between 2005 and 2015 when adjusted for inflation, according to a new University of Florida study. Inflation adjusted wages in Broward County grew less than a quarter of a percent during that time. That’s bad news, especially when South Florida’s median home prices rose about 25 percent in just the last three years. While tourism is the bedrock of our local economy, we must attract better-paying jobs to our area. Companies that pay well expect a highly skilled workforce, traffic that’s manageable, good schools and affordable housing.
Looking ahead: June 1st marked the official start of hurricane season, and now is the time to make sure you and your family are prepared for a storm. Even though our area hasn’t seen severe tropical weather in over a decade, we must remain vigilant. Storms can come very quickly, often giving us barely a few days to get ready. Knowing in advance whether you will evacuate or stay in your home, and being ready to secure your home in advance can prevent injury and property damage. To learn more about preparing for a storm, visit broward.org/hurricane or call (954) 831-3100.
Robert Weinroth, Deputy Mayor, Boca Raton
Last week: Love him or hate him, Donald J. Trump is the President of the United States. Debate over his policies, his staffing decisions or even possible interference in the electoral process by Russia are all fair game in a democracy which values the freedom of speech enough to have incorporated it into the U.S. Constitution as its first Amendment. However, the gruesome image of a decapitated president, in an all too real picture similar to images broadcast by terrorist, crossed a line resulting in the justified backlash from all quarters. The political rhetoric needs to be dialed down to forestall disaster.
Looking ahead: Municipal governance can be pretty dreary stuff. Land use, water and sewer services, solid waste removal and the like are mundane but essential to our everyday lives. In a similar vein, a recent Palm Beach County workshop of elected officials (together with county and municipal staff) to discuss road impact fee alternatives will never be the grist for a feature film or best selling novel. However, how we pay for road upgrades and incorporate multimodal facilities in future traffic planning will have significant impacts on our ability to move from place to place as South Florida’s population continues to increase.
Mitchell W. Berger, founder and co-chair, Berger Singerman
Last week: As I write this the president still has not decided whether or not to pull the United States as a signatory to the Paris Accord. Whether or not the United States remains a signatory, a response by the world is required. California continues to lead the American response, as it desires to be in the lead of world wide innovation, technology and high end employment and because it wishes to help solve the problems of the world not add to them. We know where the president is on this. Where is Florida, America’s most climate impacted state?
Looking ahead: The deterioration of American alliances at a time we need them the most. Germany and Japan did not rebuild their militaries after World War II because we asked them not to rearm. Yes, we need their help against Russia, China and North Korea and to assist against terrorism. Times have changed. Is the best way to meet changed circumstance by criticizing publicly while our enemy’s applaud, or to ask gracefully privately and give the appropriate time and space for our allies to change in response to new conditions? The answer should be obvious.
Daniel Cane, President and CEO, Modernizing Medicine
Last week: I continue to be impressed by the upward trajectory of Florida’s economy, and May was a particularly strong month. Modernizing Medicine’s $231 million private equity raise demonstrated that capital follows talent and not the other way around. In addition, the news that Florida had the lowest unemployment rate in almost 10 years and the continued job growth support the fact that Florida is an ideal place to live, work and play. The more we as business leaders promote the collective successes of our neighbors, the higher the national public perception of Florida as a business hub will elevate.
Looking ahead: While I realize that only Modernizing Medicine employees and their families will be talking about it, our upcoming Bring a Child to Work Day is one of our favorite annual events — in a close tie with Bring Your Parents to Work Day. This year’s Star Wars theme will be incorporated into events including yoga, a coding workshop, an art/medical activity and more. The most interesting new event ties into our Community Outreach efforts — our little Jedis will participate in an activity to support our troops. Hopefully their efforts will bring a smile to those defending our incredible country.
Mitch Ceasar, former chairman, Broward Democratic Party
Looking ahead: Will he or won’t he? Gov. Rick Scott is facing a deadline whether to veto all or part of Florida’s $82 billion budget. This drama is heightened because of an uproar over a bad education bill and a feud between the governor and the house speaker over Scott’s beloved jobs promoting agency funding. Add to the mix a “game of chicken” between the speaker and the Senate president over their political ambitions. It sounds like a bad TV movie. Unfortunately children, seniors, education, environment and jobs are at risk. Playing politics with lives is a bad budgetary formula.
Pastor D.H. Dawkins Sr., Praise Tabernacle International
Last week: There must be a complete overhaul on the authority that oversees travel by the airline industry. There is such a lack of consideration, remorse or empathy for the traveler. Last weekend was a nightmare for millions of airline passengers.
James Donnelly, chairman, Broward Workshop
Last week: Memorial Day weekend we honored those who have given their life in defense of this great nation and the freedoms we enjoy. Including the freedom of speech. On the same weekend, we honored our war heroes, Kathy Griffin decided to take our right to free speech to a new low. As our soldiers continue to put themselves in harm’s way against an evil enemy who have held up severed heads as trophies, Ms. Griffin thought it would be funny to do so with a bloodied, severed head of our president. Unbelievable! No apology is acceptable for this disgusting act.
Andrew Duffell, president, Research Park at Florida Atlantic University
Last week: Venezuela is Florida’s neighbor and what happens there affects us immediately and personally. The Venezuelan people have made clear their disapproval of their government, and have tried legal means to bring about change, only to be met with thuggery, torture, repression and murder. Enough is enough. The U.S., along with its partners in the region, must insist on democratic elections immediately in order that this bio-diverse, natural resource-rich and industrious country doesn’t disintegrate into total chaos. To stand idly by while peaceful protesters are murdered, private companies expropriated and U.S. companies profit from the disorder makes us complicit with Maduro.
Looking ahead: Gov. Rick Scott faces hard choices in reviewing legislation and the budget passed by the Legislature, and time is running out: the new fiscal year starts July 1. This year education — from K-12 to state college and universities — has emerged as the central issue. The inescapable fact is that the future of our state’s prosperity rides on the quality of education we provide to our children and higher education students. Therefore, to not fund them adequately for a state aiming to be a leader in opportunity, invention and innovation will be disastrous.
Tracey Grossman, chairperson, Florida Anti-Defamation League
Last week: In Manchester, 22 people were brutally slaughtered after a concert by Boca Raton native Ariana Grande. Bias-motivated attacks have occurred across our country as well. We must firmly recognize that innocent victims are innocent and a terror attack is terror, no matter the circumstances. We must not fall prey to hate and allow these extremists to paint our views of entire communities. We need to mourn and must move forward. By continuing to live our lives in pursuit of our democratic values and pluralism, we defeat the terrorists’ and extremists’ ultimate goal of changing our way of life.
Marty Kiar, Broward County Property Appraiser
Last week: In November 2016, Floridians voted to provide a full ad valorem tax exemption on homesteaded property to Florida first responders who are totally and permanently disabled due to an injury sustained in the line of duty. Last week, the implementing legislation was presented to Gov. Scott to enact or veto the law. In preparation, our office has been encouraging qualifying first responders to contact our office and provide their contact information so that we can sign them up for a full 2017 property tax exemption after the legislation becomes law. Please contact me at martykiar@bcpa.net or at 954-357-6904 for information.
Chip LaMarca, member, Broward County Commission
Last week: Just in time to get ready for the 2017 hurricane season which began on June 1st, this weekend everyone in the state of Florida has the chance to take advantage of the 2017 Disaster Preparedness Sales Tax Holiday. During this sales tax holiday, qualifying items related to disaster preparedness were exempt from sales tax. However, the sales tax holiday did not apply to the rental or repair of any of the qualifying items. Qualifying items include flashlights, candles, reusable ice, batteries, coolers, two-way radios, portable generators, first-aid kits, and other disaster preparedness items.
Looking ahead: The Broward County Libraries Division recently launched an innovative initiative in conjunction with T-Mobile that provides 450 free Wi-Fi hotspot devices to local veterans, active military members and their dependents. This program will now better assist veterans by encouraging education, self-development and career advancement through technology, while also encouraging the use of Broward County Libraries’ vast resources by members of the military community. Veterans, active military members and their dependents interested in participating will be able to check out the free hotspots at nine Broward County Library locations throughout Broward County with a valid military identification.
Peter Moore, President, Chen Moore and Associates
Last week: Public-private partnerships (P3) projects for transportation and water have performed well in terms of being delivered on time and on budget. In addition, they transfer the risk of delays and cost overruns from the taxpayer to the private sector partner. However, public buildings are not currently an eligible use of federal tax-exempt facility bonds. Our own Senator Nelson recently cosponsored the Public Buildings Renewal Act (H.R. 960/S. 326) would open the U.S. buildings market to P3, making them eligible for said bonds. How do you feel about a private company owning your local fire station or City Hall?
Looking ahead: With the 451-page appropriations bill (SB 2500) delivered to Governor Scott at 12:09 p.m. on Wednesday, the governor has 15 days to act on the legislation. The Governor has many options, but the looking deadline for the State Budget on July 1st, June could be a very interesting month of negotiations in Tallahassee. A number of important issues hang in the balance.
Eduardo J. Padrón, president, Miami Dade College
Last week: The cutting-edge Miami Fashion Institute (MFI) at MDC again joined Miami Fashion Week offering a dynamic master class program led by industry experts, focusing on fashion and sustainability. MFI students also prepared projects for an exhibition of UpCycle designs at Ice Palace Film Studios, where runway shows took place. And Hurricane Season is now underway and they say it may be busier than normal. Avoid career storms by enrolling at MDC. Set a course for a smooth career and personal success with a college degree, in fashion design, as mentioned, or big data, animation, coding, digital marketing and much more.
Looking ahead: Miami Dade College will again participate in eMerge Americas coming up on June 12-13. MDC will have its biggest presence yet, showcasing some of its most cutting-edge programs in robotics engineering, animation & gaming, medical patient simulation technology, entrepreneurship and much more. MDC is helping transform Miami to better support emerging industries through innovation, partnerships, community building and training. Please be sure to stop by the MDC eMerge booth to visit our faculty, staff and students. And say hello to eMerge founder and MDC alumnus Manny Medina.
Greg Ross, mayor, Cooper City; president, Broward League of Cities
Looking ahead: As I end my presidency as the Broward League of Cities president, I’m most proud of relationships and connectivity established from my “Connect One Broward” initiative. The League connected with the Broward Workshop, Greater Fort Lauderdale Alliance, Broward County, Village Square and the Florida League of Cities, aligning goals and supporting each other’s initiatives. We connected cities, learning from each other and working collaboratively to influence votes in Tallahassee on bills to improve our communities. It’s been a great year. I’m proud to be amongst a committed and effective group of municipal elected officials governing and moving our cities forward.
John “Jack” P. Seiler, mayor, Fort Lauderdale
Last week: Fort Lauderdale’s economy is roaring. Unemployment dropped to 3.8% in April, which ranked best in the region and lower than the state and national averages. We led the state in annual job growth in professional and business services (+10,000 jobs) and government (+2,400 jobs); and, we had the second highest annual job growth in education and health services (+6,000 jobs). The Broward County Property Appraiser’s preliminary report shows Fort Lauderdale property values up over 9%, marking the sixth straight year of growth. To top it off, Lendedu just ranked us among the “Top 10 Best Places to Retire in Florida!”
Looking ahead: Calling all bicyclists! Please join us for a Family Fun Ride and Moonlight Movie in the Park on Saturday, June 10 from 5:00 to 10:00 pm at Osswald Park, 2220 N.W. 21 Avenue. Neighbors can learn about bike safety, play a family softball game with Fort Lauderdale Police Officers (please register in advance by calling 954-828-5824), participate in a relaxed bike ride through the Rock Island neighborhood, and enjoy a family-friendly movie in the park. It’s all part of our effort to create safe healthy streets, build community, achieve Vision Zero, and save lives. For details, please visit www.fortlauderdale.gov.
Tom Shea, president, Right Management
Last week: A new University of Florida study shows the seemingly endless period of flat wages truly was a long slog. Annual average wages in Florida, adjusted for inflation, barely changed from 2005 to 2015, averaging about $45,000, the report says. The good news: wages are gradually ticking upward as expanding companies compete for people with the skills, agility and “learnability” crucial to drive growth. Those continuous learners among us will keep their skills current, in demand and well rewarded. Those who stop learning will be left behind, no matter what the field.
Looking ahead: Outpacing the nation, Florida’s economy is growing at a rate that reflects our state’s vast potential. The Sunshine State’s 3 percent rise in real gross domestic product (GDP) for 2016 remains, so far, an elusive goal for the U.S. With California and Texas on our heels, we must continue building on, diversifying and promoting our strengths, while developing a new generation of talent.