Senior Citizen Advisory Committee
September 12, 2000
2:30 p.m.
1. ROLL CALL
The meeting was called to order at 2:30 p.m. by Chairperson Dean Alexander. Present were Chairperson Dean Alexander, Vice-Chairperson Marguerite Olson and Committee Members Jeannette Davis, Fernando DiBella, Gloria Imbruglia, Janet Nilsen, Lil Olfren, Marvin Simon, Dorothy Tillinghast, and Norma Welke. Also in attendance were Interim Town Administrator Tom Willi, Program Administrator Will Allen and Recreation Supervisor Bette Stark.
2. INTRODUCTION - TOM WILLI, INTERIM TOWN ADMINISTRATOR
Mr. Willi stated that the Town was committed to make the transit system work and serve the community. He added that the schedules and routes would be adjusted as soon as the buses were on the road and input from the community was gathered. He explained that the eastern route was planned first because the western area was spread out too far, but it would be addressed in future plans. Also, it would take approximately six months to get to the minimum ridership level of five riders per hour. Mr. Willi added that the system needed a lot of refinement, but this would only occur once the system was underway and they received input from the public. Mr. Willi reiterated that one may flag the bus down if not at a designated bus stop and this had been reported to the public through advertising, the Davie Update, and
announcements at the Town Council meetings. Also, there would be signage on the buses and at the stops. Chairperson Alexander commended Ms. Tillinghast for initiating this program and also the Town Council and Town administration and staff for bringing it to fruition. Mr. Willi commended Mr. Allen for all of the hard work he had put into this project.
Ms. Welke asked when the agreement between Sunrise Water and Davie occurred. Mr. Willi stated that the Sunrise Water Agreement had been settled. Part of the agreement stipulated that the parties would get together and discuss how Davie could purchase the water system from Sunrise. The feasibility of this was being studied and there were many variables to be considered. Mr. Willi had no definite answer at this stage. He added that the asking price might be approximately $100 million. If the negotiations fell apart, the Town had the option of entertaining Eminent Domain proceeding where they would claim the property because it was within the Town limits of Davie. The court states that Davie would have to pay fair market value plus 10%, which could be between $40 million and $100 million. Also, there was a
question of who would pay for the water, all residents or only those who were on Sunrise water.
3. GUEST SPEAKER-BROWARD COUNTY PARKS AND RECREATION BOND ISSUE
Guest Speakers were Mike Harlan, Broward County Parks and Recreation; Gil McAdam, Environmental Administrator/Broward Parks and Recreation; and Scott Park, Department of Planning and Environmental Protection/Broward County.
The group presented a video explaining the proposed bond for Broward County Parks. In this referendum there would be approximately $200 million available for the acquisition of environmentally sensitive land or passive parks. The land acquisition part
of the bond would be directed toward environmentally sensitive lands and agricultural lands, particularly in the southwest and northern areas of the county. Approximately two square miles (about 1,000 acres) were identified as "conservation" lands for the Green Spaces category, which was substantial to high environmental value, and these areas were the first priority. There was a large amount of agricultural land in Davie and they were particularly interested in this property. They had also allocated approximately $200 million for restoring the aging park system around the county, building new water playgrounds, nature centers, picnic shelters, and a new regional park.
The Swim Central Grants program had $15 million for pools. The goal was to teach all children under school age to swim (approximately 55,000 children around the county). Also, it was hoped that ten new pools would be built around the county and existing pools would be brought up to the standards of the Swim Central program. The funds would be available to municipalities and each project could be up to $1.5 million. Mr. McAdam explained that there were three stipulations: first, the city receiving the grant must continue to use the Swim Central Program; second, the pools must be heated for year round usage; and third, the facility must be located near an elementary school to eliminate transportation to and from the pool.
The Challenge Grants were directed toward capital improvements in smaller county parks. It was a $20 million category and each project could be up to $500,000 with a 25% match. If the project was less than $200,000, no match was needed. The funds could be used for either indoor or outdoor projects. Mr. McAdam added that there were 3000 acres of natural areas being maintained by Broward County and $5 million would be spent to add additional amenities to those areas and about $6 million would be spent on a new nature facility.
Chairperson Alexander stated that the Town of Davie had always supported parks and open spaces and referred to the Town's past interest in purchasing the Kapok Tree property on 130 Ave. He added that when Broward County took over that location, they removed all of the existing structures and gardens and the property had not been improved or maintained since it was acquired by the County. Chairperson Alexander wanted to know the reasoning behind this and what plans there were for the future of this property. Mr. McAdam explained that this site would be called the "Long Key Flamingo Grove Site" and that many improvements had been made. It had been open on an interim basis since 1995. There were equestrian trails and walking trails and the parking lot and walkways had been cleaned up. Also,
approximately $200,000 was spent on the removal of exotic plants and trees. Mr. McAdam added that the Kapok Tree property was an Environmentally Sensitive Lands Bond Program and not a park program. He also added that the trail system would connect to this area. Also, there were seven major archeological sites at this location and the building was removed because it was considered an intrusion into a sensitive area. The goal was to reestablish the wetlands and everglades ecosystem. There was a plan to build a $6 million nature center on that site. The project should be completed by late 2002.
Ms. Nilsen wanted to know if there were any plans in the bond to save the beaches. Mr. Scott stated that 15% of the acquisition price would go toward beach restoration. Mr. Simon asked if the restoration would include sand renourishment and Mr. Scott stated that the funds would be used strictly for restoration. He added that the County had its own beach renourishment funds. Ms. Nilsen recommended putting a barrier or reef to prevent further erosion. Mr. Scott explained that the bond would cost $38.00 per $100,000 value for an average household.
Mr. Simon asked who would appoint members to the Oversight Committee. Mr. Harlan explained that the individuals had not yet been chosen, but a resolution was being prepared which pinpoints different businesses, private corporations, and public citizens to get a representative from each of those communities. Once the group was developed, it would go to the County Commissioners for approval.
Mr. Simon wanted a more definite answer as to whom the land would be bought from and which lands were being referred to. Mr. Scott explained there were 420 parcels inventoried and they were scattered throughout the county and privately owned. Mr. Scott added that this information, including maps, was available on the website - www.broward.org/ourfuture. Also, if the land was not purchased for these purposes they would be bought and used for residential development and commercial use as they were already platted for this use.
4. OLD BUSINESS
4.1 Transportation-Will Allen
Mr. Allen stated that progress had been made in putting transit routes together for the Town of Davie. Broward County passed an additional one cent gas tax which became effective January 1, 2001 and was to be used strictly for mass transit throughout the County. Money would be distributed according to the population in each community. Davie would get approximately $80,000 a year. Also, the County had encouraged communities to develop local transit systems to handle local trips within the community and to connect to the County's regional transportation system to hospitals, shopping centers, and parks. Each community would have to compete for buses. Plans must be made, including bus routes, and then the County would evaluate and determine what buses each community gets. The County had agreed to give two buses
to Davie for the eastern route which was already in place. The buses would probably be available in October. Town Council had already approved this and it was on the County's agenda for September 26. The bus route and timetable must be finalized with Broward County Transit. A proposal was being sent to private companies to operate and maintain the buses. Chairperson Alexander added that there would be formal bus stops and this would not be a door to door service. However, if someone were to flag a bus down, the bus would stop for them. Also, there would be schedules and maps distributed throughout the community and there would be no fee for now. Mr. Allen explained that the advantage of hiring a private firm was that if a bus broke down, additional buses would be available to continue the service. Mr. Allen suggested that the schedule begin at approximately 7:00 a.m. and later on Saturday. The service would not be available on Sundays. Ms. Davis asked if the bus would take riders
directly to doctors' offices and Mr. Allen explained that it would not, but would go directly to Nova Health Center and did connect with Broward County bus routes. Also, by June 1, 2001 there would have to be a minimum ridership of five people per hour, per bus. If the Town did not meet these criteria, it would be in jeopardy of having to change the route or losing it, but Mr. Allen added that this was not a concern because there was a great need for this system. Ms. Stark added that the buses would be going to Pine Island Community Center and children would be able to take advantage of this system as well. Chairperson Alexander added that advertising needed to be done to inform the community and increase ridership. Mr. Allen added the routes would be adjusted if the need occurred. Ms. Welke suggested that the print on the maps and schedules be large enough for easy reading. Ms. Stark agreed that it should be enlarged and darkened.
4.2 Senior Grocery Shopping Transportation Concerns
Ms. Stark stated that the Parks and Recreation Department had, for many years, provided transportation to the grocery store for senior citizens in Davie, every other Wednesday. She explained that Coach USA was the company the Town used for this service. Coral Springs put a bid out for a similar service and contracted with Coach USA. Complications arose last Wednesday when the buses were not scheduled and many were left without transportation. The buses did finally arrive, but had mechanical problems and they were late, and the usual schedules were not followed. Bette sent letters to Coach USA. The Town would continue to use this company because they were one of two providers in the area and the contract was in effect until 2002. She added that she had spoken with Procurement Manager Herb Hyman, who stated
that the company can be fired, but then there would be no service until another company was contracted. Ms. Stark was working diligently and apologized for any inconveniences. Ms. Imbruglia asked if the service was necessary with the new transit system going into effect. Ms. Stark explained that this service was completely separate from the Davie transit system and there was no intention of taking this service away. It was intended to go door to door and wait for senior citizens while shopping.
4.3 T-Shirts for Special Events
Ms. Stark displayed the shirt which was approved by the Committee. It was ash colored with green embroidery. She distributed them to the Committee members. Chairperson Alexander thanked Ms. Stark and Ms. Kent and the Parks and Recreation Department for their support and stated that it was a pleasure working with them.
4.4 Skills Bank Report
Chairperson Alexander handed out a draft of an advertisement for the Davie Update. The Senior Citizen Advisory Committee was seeking information on seniors in the community who are returning to the work force either full or part time or are planning to in the future. They requested that seniors send a detailed resume to Davie Skills Bank. The goal was to place seniors with appropriate employment in their areas of expertise.
4.5 Recreation Program Surveys
Ms. Stark stated that she had not received many surveys back. She added that the goal was to add additional adult programs. She also requested ideas from the group for any suggestions for the new facility. She asked to be advised if anyone knew of instructors who would provide classes so that she could establish new programs.
NEW BUSINESS
5.1 Upcoming Parks and Recreation Programs
Ms. Olsen gave the following for adults and senior recreation information: On October 20th there will be a Halloween Bash from 1:00 until 4:00 p.m. at Robbins Lodge. There would be a costume contest, bingo, snacks, and the cost would be $3.00 per person. On November 15th there would be the Country Western Night from 6:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. at Robbins Lodge. There would be a band, line dancing, a catered meal, and the cost would be $7.00 per person. November 20th would be the Ivanhoe Thanksgiving Luncheon from 12:30 p.m. until 3:00 p.m. at Ivanhoe Community Center. A traditional Thanksgiving meal would be served and the cost was $5.00.
5.2 Davie Update Information
Ms. Stark encouraged members to share any information they would like to have published in the Davie Update. Ms. Olsen added that October 28th there would be a garage sale which profits the seniors. Donations are encouraged and can be picked up around the town. Ms. Stark added that the Lippizan Horses will be performing at the Davie Rodeo Arena on November 2nd and 3rd, 10:00 a.m. and 7:30 p.m. respectively (the senior show will be on November 2nd).
5.3 Volunteers Visiting Retirement Homes
Chairperson Alexander asked if anyone was interested in volunteering and if so, they should contact Ms. Stark.
6. Comments and/or Suggestions
Chairperson Alexander referred to an article in the Miami Herald which stated there was a great surprise that senior citizens supported the bond issue for KIDS. He added that seniors had traditionally supported youth programs and education, and was offended by the article which suggested seniors only support their own programs. Chairperson Alexander also encouraged seniors to vote, noting that the biggest issues in the presidential campaign are social security, Medicare, and prescriptions for seniors, and that seniors had a great deal of power when it came to voting. There would be a run-off election in October.
Chairperson Alexander stated that the next meeting was scheduled for October 3rd which is Election Day. He suggested postponing the meeting until October 10th. All agreed.
Chairperson Alexander stated that a dance group in Davie was interested in putting on a production of "The Nutcracker." The group was looking for volunteers to work with the group. Anyone interested should speak with Ms. Stark.
Chairperson Alexander finished in 15th place in the World Championship Fencing Competition in Budapest and received a certificate.
7. Adjournment:
Chairperson Alexander adjourned the meeting at 4:05 p.m.
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