pq fall pdf pages.qxp - City of Plantation

Fall 2005
Vote!
SPECIAL
ELECTION
August 30
It’s A Wonderful Life
HOLIDAY PARADE
ASK CITY HALL
Frequently Asked Questions
Good habits begin early
PREVENTING OBESITY
HURRICANE DEBRIS REMOVAL
Policy procedures & updates

VOTE!
August
30
City Council
Special Election
The City of Plantation will hold a Special Municipal Election on
Tuesday, August 30, 2005 for City Council Seat - Group 4.
All regular precincts will be open. For more information,
please call the City Clerk’s office at 954-797-2237.
It’s A Wonderful Life!
Monday . November 19, 2005
9:00 a.m. at Broward & 441
HOLIDAY PARADE
SPONSORED BY AMERICAN EXPRESS,
BROWARD MALL, PLANTATION GENERAL
HOSPITAL, WESTSIDE REGIONAL HOSPITAL
AND WASTE MANAGEMENT
Presented by the City of Plantation and the
Plantation Chamber of Commerce, this year’s
HOLIDAY PARADE kicks off at 9:00 A.M. on
441 (SR 7) and Broward Boulevard, heads
west on Broward Boulevard, turns north onto
69th Avenue, west on 4th Street and concludes
at City Hall. Come celebrate with us at City
Hall immediately following the Parade.
Broward Beautiful Awards
The City of Plantation is the proud recipient of three Broward Beautiful 2005 Beautification Awards.
These awards were presented in recognition and appreciation for outstanding landscape designs and maintenance programs.
FIRST PLACE
Roadway/Swale Beautification
Plantation Gateway Retention Enhancement,
Sunrise Boulevard and State Road 7/441
SECOND PLACE
Roadway/Swale Beautification
Broward Boulevard Bridges, West Tropical
Way and Eldorado Parkway
FIRST PLACE
Small Parks
Camp Everglades at Volunteer Park

MAYOR
Rae Carole Armstrong
CITY COUNCIL
Sharon Uria, President
Jerry Fadgen, President Pro Tem
Diane Veltri Bendekovic
Dr. Robert A. Levy
CITY DEPARTMENTS
Daniel Keefe, Assistant to the Mayor
Marcia Berkley, Planning, Zoning & Econ. Dev. Director
Hank Breitenkam, Utilities Director
Brett Butler, City Engineer
Robert Castro, Information Technology Director
Frank DeCelles, Public Works Director
Danny Ezzeddine, Design & Constr. Mgmt. Director
Herbert Herriman, Financial Serv. Director
Larry L. Massey, Chief of Police
John McKenica, Personnel Director
Dee Anne Merritt, Library Director
Robert S. Pudney, Fire Chief
James Romano, Parks & Recreation Director
Jeff Sabouri, Building Director
Jeffrey Siegel, Landscape Architect
Susan Slattery, City Clerk
PLANTATION QUARTERLY
and RECREATION QUARTERLY
STAFF
Susan DiLaura, Editor
Ginette Fogel, Graphic Designer
Ken Boyce, Recreation Editor
Cheryl Greenberg, Assistant Recreation Editor
Plantation
the grass is greener ®
City of Plantation
400 NW 73rd Avenue Plantation, FL 33317
954-797-2200
Table
www.Plantation.org
OF CONTENTS
GRANTS CORNER 4
HELEN B. HOFFMAN LIBRARY 4
HURRICANE SEASON RESIDENT INFORMATION 5
WELCOME NEW BUSINESS 6
CITY ON THE MOVE
4th Annual Economic Development Summit 6
GATEWAY ECONOMIC INCENTIVE PROGRAM 7
GETTING YOUR PASSPORT
at the City Clerk’s Office - City Hall 8
FIT TOGETHER, GET TOGETHER
Exercise program developed for teens 8
PLANTATION NEWCOMERS CLUB 8
ASK CITY HALL
Frequently Asked Questions 9
FIRE DEPARTMENT 10
POLICE DEPARTMENT 11
OFFICERS OF THE MONTH 11
KEEPING CHILDREN SAFE 11
PLANT OF THE QUARTER
Southern Red Cedar 12
COUNCILMAN RESIGNS 12
ASK MARGE & FRED
Container Gardening 13
6TH ANNUAL TREEDAY!
October 29, 2005 13
WIN A YARD MAKEOVER 14
PUBLIC WORKS PIPELINE
Help for a Sewer Backup 15
PARK EAST TRAILHEAD PROGRESS 15
EASY UTILITY PAYMENTS
New Payment drop-boxes 15
On the Cover:
Welcome to City Hall. Built in 1975 under the leadership of then Mayor
Jack Carter, City Hall is the center of Plantation City government. Mayor
Rae Carole Armstrong’s office and the Office of the City Clerk are both
housed within the beautifully landscaped brick edifice. City Council
meetings, as well as other official City board and committee meetings are
held in Council Chambers, located on the first floor.
For City of Plantation publications in alternative format, please contact the Purchasing
Division at 954-797-2648. The City of Plantation will provide reasonable accommodations
for disabled individuals requesting special assistance in order to attend or participate
in City functions. Request for assistance must be made to the Office of the City Clerk at
954-797-2236 at least five calendar days prior to the meeting (three calendar days
prior to a City Council meeting).

Grants
CORNER
Priscilla Richards, Grants Administrator
CONGRATULATIONS TO:
Department of Landscape Architecture for $8,675 from the U.S.
Department of Agriculture for the Community Forestry Education Program
and $7,500 from the Broward Greenshade Program for the Plantation
Preserve Golf Course and Club tree planting program.
Parks & Recreation Department for $217,158 from the State
Cultural Facilities Program for the design and construction of the City
Amphitheater.
Plantation Police Department for $960 from Victoria’s Secret Stores
for the purchase of bicycles for the Bikes for Literacy Program.
APPLICATIONS RECENTLY SUBMITTED:
The Plantation Historical Museum applied for $219,213 from the
State Cultural Facilities Program for the expansion of the Museum.
The Plantation Fire Department submitted an $88,000 application
to the Department of Homeland Security Assistance to Firefighters for
emergency generators for Fire Stations #1 and #5.
The Utilities Department submitted a grant application to the Hazard
Mitigation Program for $124,026 to help pay to retrofit the City wastewater
plant against hurricane winds.
For more information on these and other grants, please contact Priscilla Richards,
Grant Administrator at 954-797-2723 or via e-mail at prichards@plantation.org
Reading, Research & Recreation
AT HELEN B. HOFFMAN PLANTATION LIBRARY
Miki Ostendorf, Helen B. Hoffman Library
Fall is here and everyone is busy at the library. Thank goodness we had
the summer to read just for fun. Summer Reading Around Florida was a
huge success – so many readers winning prizes, participating in special
activities, and enriching their reading skills. Hundreds of books were
read and many hours of pleasurable reading were spent at home and at
the library. Thanks, kids, for being diligent and making our summer so
enjoyable.
Remember it is important to read to your children, no matter what
their age or reading skills. Nursery Rhymes are vital to the youngest
children so memorization can begin. Folk and fairy tales stretch the
imagination and increase vocabulary-building skills for young readers.
You and your emergent reader can share Rookie Readers and I Can
Read books in the appropriate reading level. Picture books provide an
excellent resource for elementary school readers. Older readers delight
in reading chapter books in the Children’s Room or from selections in
the Young Adult section.
Students can now access Gale’s Literature Resource Center, the newest
addition to the Library’s online database, on our public access
computers. The easy-to-use search interface accesses more than 371,000
full text journal articles from more than 230 literary journals, 38,000
critical essays, and more than 122,000 author biographies. New and
Ms. Goffe’s sixth grade class learns about ranching from members of the
Provider Pals Program. One sixth grade class was chosen at Plantation
Middle (pictured above) and another at Seminole Middle School to pilot
the national program.
The Provider Pals
Program is designed to
teach students about
people who work to
produce the food we eat
and the items we buy.
The program was
partially funded by the
City of Plantation.
updated material
is added continuously.
Students
can print full text
articles or send
them to their
own e-mail accounts.
Check out our extensive Reference section for related subject material
to all school projects in both the Adult and Children’s Departments. Our
Florida Collection is full of useful materials. Direct your questions to our
trained staff of Reference Librarians.
Good news on the home front. Plantation City Council voted to begin
building our new multipurpose room and storage area adjacent to the
Children’s Room. The Library has received a grant from the State of
Florida to fund part of the construction. This facility will be the new
home of the Plantation Puppeteers.
SEE YOU @ THE LIBRARY THIS FALL!
For dates and times of planned Library events and Friends of the
Library book sales, see Recreation Quarterly, page 13.
4 Plantation Quarterly Fall 2005

H U R R I C A N E S E A S O N 2 0 0 5
CITY HURRICANE DEBRIS REMOVAL POLICIES AND INFORMATION
The City of Plantation responded to last year’s hurricanes with
speed and efficiency, picking up 50,000 cubic yards of debris from
toppled trees and uprooted shrubs in just about a week. Last year’s
Hurricane Season was one of the busiest in recorded history, with
South Florida being hit by four hurricanes within six weeks of each
other. Luckily, the City of Plantation was spared a direct hit for any
of the hurricanes, but we did receive our share of sustained winds
and storm damage.
We are all hoping that we won’t be affected by hurricanes this
year, but based on predictions from the National Oceanic and
Atmosphere Association (NOAA), that doesn’t seem likely. This
year’s hurricane season is predicted to be equally active as last year.
According to forecasters, thirteen named storms and seven hurricanes
are predicted during the six-month storm season, with a 73
percent chance that at least one major hurricane will make landfall
in the United States.
CITY HURRICANE DEBRIS REMOVAL
With hurricane season upon us, the City of Plantation would like
to clarify policies and procedures for debris removal and provide
some helpful information to make the season safer and easier for
us all.
Once the “all clear” signal has been given by the National
Hurricane Center and the City’s Disaster Coordinator, City staff will
canvas the City and do a complete damage assessment. A few points
to keep in mind regarding removal of hurricane debris by City
workers:
• City personnel will work immediately to clear roadways.
However, depending on the forecast for additional storms, the City
may wait several days to begin removal of storm debris.
• The City will make only two (2) passes along every eligible
public street. Debris collection will last, depending on the severity
of the storm, approximately 60 days.
• Debris must be segregated into vegetation, construction debris
and metals. If debris is not segregated, it will not be removed.
Household hazardous waste will not be collected by debris
contractors/haulers and should be brought to a designated drop-off
location. Do not block traffic, and keep piles away from mailboxes,
fire hydrants, TV/phone cable boxes, power boxes, lift stations, etc.
• Only debris resulting from hurricane damage is eligible.
Debris collection and disposal that is covered under property
insurance is not eligible. Debris determined to be “ineligible” will
be the responsibility of the property owner/resident to dispose of at
their own expense.
• Debris removal from private property is eligible only if:
1. It eliminates threat to lives, public safety or public health.
2. It eliminates threat of significant damage to improved
public or private property.
3. I ensures economic recovery of affected areas to benefit
the community-at-large.
• The City can only remove storm debris that is generated from
public streets or street right-of-ways (swales). Debris within private
roads, whether gated or publicly accessible, will only be cleared
(pushed to the side of the road) to provide access for public safety
purposes. Debris generated from private roads may be brought by
the Homeowners Association to the nearest public swale for City
removal.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
The Resident Emergency/Hurricane Hotline 954-585-2363 and
the City website are available 24-hours a day, and will be updated
periodically after a severe weather event to provide information
regarding scheduling of debris removal and other relevant information.
Please do not call other City phone numbers for this
information.
By working together as partners for the betterment of our
community and following these simple guidelines, we can restore
the City of Plantation back to normal within a reasonable amount
of time.
HURRICANE SEASON IS NOT THE TIME
TO TRIM YOUR TREES
Branches and yard waste generated from trimming trees and
shrubs will cause additional damage to homes and other personal
items if the material cannot be picked up in time and becomes
airborne due to the strong winds generated by a storm.
The best time to perform this type of maintenance is between
December and June. When completed, you can have the plant
material and tree branches picked up by our solid waste
contractor. (For guidelines, call 954-452-2535 or you visit the
Public Works website at www.Plantation.org.) If you choose, you
can bring the material to our recycling center located at 750 NW
91st Avenue.
Resident Emergency and Hurricane Hotline:
954-585-2363
City website: www.Plantation.org
Plantation Quarterly Fall 2005
5

Welcome
NEW BUSINESSES
The City is happy to welcome Equitrac Corp. and
Precision Response Corporation (PRC) to its list of
companies that have made Plantation their corporate
headquarters.
PRC, located in the Crossroads Office Park (Building
II), provides telephone-based customer and marketing
services such as taking sales order, answering customer
questions and handling service requests to British Airways,
AT&T and several other large corporations. PRC has eight
South Florida locations employing 6,000 people. There are
27 locations worldwide with over 10,000 employees in
total. PRC has been added to the Top Twenty Employers of
South Florida.
Equitrac Corp., with an anticipated employee count of
100 for the Plantation office, has re-located from Coral
Gables to Royal Palm at Southpointe, 1000 South Pine
Island Road. Equitrac has been a leading provider of
automated state of the art service and support document
solutions for professional and commercial markets and is
the first American company to manufacture, market and
distribute its own line of hardware and software to help
businesses keep track of office automation expenses
associated with printing, copying, faxing and scanning.
They have installed systems for more than 10,000 organizations
worldwide. The company has a total of 400
employees in 17 U.S. cities and Canada, France and the
Netherlands. The City is delighted these two companies
have selected Plantation as their new home.
Plantation...
A CITY ON THE MOVE!
Guests enjoy a dynamic presentation on the future of
the City of Plantation, a City on the Move!
MANY THANKS
TO OUR VALUED SPONSORS
6 Plantation Quarterly Fall 2005
The Fourth Annual Economic Development
Summit luncheon, a united effort between the
Plantation Chamber of Commerce and the City
of Plantation, was held on April 4, 2005 at the
Renaissance Plantation Hotel. Over 200
members of the business, real estate and
development community joined City and
county elected officials to network and to hear
about the new development opportunities
available within the City, the County and the
south Florida region.
Dr. Jack Pinkowski, Founder and Director
of the Nova Southeastern University (NSU)
Institute of Government and Public Policy
shared information on Vision Broward and
many of the exciting projects moving forward
at NSU. Bob Breslau, President of Stiles Retail
Group, unveiled plans for One Plantation
Plantation Preserve
GOLF COURSE & CLUB
• Opening Fall 2005
• Special rates for
Plantation residents
• Memberships now
available
• Open to the public
• Driving range,
pro shop, clubhouse,
restaurant, lounge
and banquet facilities
• Wetland preserve
linear park and trail
Plantation
the grass is greener ®
Take the Swing
into Early Membership
An exciting new golf facility
located in the heart
of Plantation
Plantation Preserve Golf Course & Club
7050 West Broward Blvd • Plantation FL 33317
www.PlantationPreserve.org
954-585-2362
Place, a mixed-use retail-residential development
located within Plantation Midtown at
University Drive and Interstate 595. Mayor Rae
Carole Armstrong reviewed recent City initiatives
related to business and development
including initiatives underway in Plantation
Midtown and Plantation Gateway.
The event also provided an opportunity for
sponsors and booth participants to showcase
their services and development projects to
Summit attendees.
The Fourth Annual Economic Development
Summit and luncheon was sponsored in part
by: Cornerstone Patrinely Group, Crimson
Services, West City Partners, Greenberg
Traurig, Inland, Royal Palm at Southpoint and
the Stiles Corporation.

Plantation Gateway
SUCCESSFUL ECONOMIC INCENTIVE
GRANT PROGRAM DRAWS TO A CLOSE
Plantation Gateway’s Economic Incentive Grant Program
(EIG) has been a stellar success. Economic Incentive
Grants totaling $569,265 were awarded to 16 recipients
and leveraged $1,521,404 in new development. You can
see the results yourself as you drive through the Gateway
district – it looks fantastic!
ELITE HOLDINGS
320-330 S. State Road 7
The program was developed in June of 2000, shortly after the creation of Plantation
Gateway’s Community Redevelopment Agency. It encouraged implementation of the new
site standards, permitted land uses, design guidelines, and development types envisioned
in the district’s redevelopment plan. As an additional advantage to the City, the grants
tapped into the potential of the private sector to create rapid visual impact, even quicker
than a traditional capital improvement program, which often has long lead times for
design and construction completion.
We sincerely thank all of the property owners that participated.
Before improvements
Completed 4/07/05
PLANTATION
FIRESTONE
631 S. State Road 7
Before
improvements
Completed 05/04/05
PWB, INC.
301-319 S. State Road 7
Before improvements
OTHER EIG PROGRAM RECIPIENTS:
Freedom Building, 101-121 S. State Road 7, completed 02/05/03
Northeast Corner, 3801-3951 West Broward Boulevard, completed 11/05/03
Mercedes Showroom, 601 North State Road 7, completed 4/15/04
Dean’s Glass, 4009 SW 7th Street, completed 4/15/04
Burley Business Plaza, 4070-4230 West Broward Boulevard, completed 6/10/04
Mr. Electric, 4053 Peters Road, completed 6/15/04
Digital Properties, 505/551 North State Road 7, completed 7/20/04
Medical I Office Building, 4101 North Hospital Drive, completed 10/4/04
Working Man’s Used Cars, 830 North State Road 7, completed 10/06/04
Robert J. Longo, 401/405 South State Road 7, completed 10/06/04
Poplack Family Enterprises, 900 South State Road 7, completed 10/15/04
Vaha Corporation, 4691 West Sunrise Boulevard, completed 12/06/04
Platt Realty and Management, 530-544 South State Road 7, completed 12/27/04
Completed 11/29/04
Plantation Quarterly Fall 2005
7

Get to Know
The City of Plantation is deeply appreciative of the hard work,
dedication and community spirit exhibited by the many volunteer organizations
throughout the City. From large-scale fund raising efforts to the
simple act of making a new family feel welcome – volunteer efforts
supporting the existing governmental structure are what give Plantation
its “hometown” feel. This quarter we would like to feature the Plantation
Newcomers Club.
The Plantation Newcomers Club motto is, “There are no strangers,
just friends who have never met.” The Newcomers Club was organized
to help newcomers adjust to the community by encouraging friendships,
developing new interests, working on service projects and
helping charitable organizations. Club members meet the third
Tuesday of every month; either for lunch or for an evening general
meeting with a special program. Dues are $20 per year. This active
club has many activities:
FOOD & FUN: Out to Lunch, Saturday Night Gourmet, casual
dining, Couples Night Out
SPECIAL INTERESTS: Book club, discussion & craft groups
GOING PLACES: Day trips, travel club, theater clubs
FITNESS & GAMES: Golf, tennis, walking, Bridge, Bunco,
Scrabble, Mah Jong
HELPING TODAY’S YOUTH DEVELOP HEALTHY HABITS
Mark Hartman, CPRP
The City of Plantation Parks & Recreation Department has begun
actively promoting a variety of physical activities to counter the epidemic
problem of overweight or obese youth in our community. City staff
monitor with great concern the alarming statistics on obesity and an
insufficient amount of physical activity among even the youngest
members of our community.
The concern is about the increasingly sedentary lifestyle of today’s
youth, who are engaged in screen time activities such as video games
and Internet surfing. Studies show that children spend about 4.5 hours a
day watching television, videotapes or DVD’s, playing video games and
using the computer and Internet.
The National Recreation & Park Association (NRPA) reports that
approximately 15 percent of America’s youth are overweight or obese;
this rate has tripled over the last 40 years. And about one third of all
youth report an insufficient amount of daily physical activity. The
statistics are especially alarming considering the consequences already
being reported. Since the 1990’s the prevalence of adult onset disease in
youth, such as Type II diabetes and heart disease, has grown dramatically.
The combination of an unhealthy diet and physical inactivity is
creating a disturbing trend toward disaster.
8 Plantation Quarterly Fall 2005
PLANTATION
NEWCOMERS CLUB
For more information go to www.plantationnewcomersclub.com
or e-mail Carol Leveritt, Membership Chair, cleveritt@bellsouth.net.
You can also write to: Plantation Newcomers Club
P.O. Box 16543, Plantation, FL 33318
Fit Together
GET TOGETHER
Passport
INFORMATION
Pamela Rohr, Passport Clerk
The City Clerk’s office serves
as a Passport Acceptance
Facility for the U.S. Department
of State. Applications are
processed between the hours
of 9:00 a.m. thru 2:30 p.m.
Monday thru Friday, appointments
preferred. Please call
954-797-2236 to make an
appointment.
Anyone applying for a U.S.
passport would need: proof of U.S. citizenship (certified birth certificate or
certificate of Naturalization), 2 recent identical photos and a valid identification
(drivers license, Florida ID card, or a foreign passport). All proof
of citizenship is returned with your passport.
All applicants must be present including minor children. Anyone under
the age of 14 requires both parents or a notarized letter of consent from
the non-appearing parent with a copy of his or her ID.
Passport fees for adults are $97.00; $67.00 in check or money order is
the passport fee and $30.00 is the application fee; children 15 years of age
and under fees are $82.00; $52.00 in check or money order for the
passport and the $30.00 application fee.
Routine applications are processed in 5-6 weeks. Expedited service is
available for an additional $60.00. These applications are processed in 2-3
weeks. For all emergency passports 14 days or less you MUST call Miami
Passport Agency and have proof of travel.
If you need any forms to apply for your passport, renew or amend your
passport please stop by the City Clerk’s Office. If you have any questions,
please call 954-797-2236.
To respond to this obesity epidemic, the Parks & Recreation
Department is moving young people off their couches and onto the
playing fields. The operative word is PLAY. We believe the motto that
parks, recreation and prevention is a true formula for success.
Plantation Parks & Recreation is partnering with area schools and
hospitals to stage an attack in this Battle of the Bulge. Increased recreational
activities can alleviate many of the adverse affects of a sedentary
lifestyle. The American Planning Association (APA) has noted that,
“Physical activity opportunities in parks help to increase fitness and
reduce obesity.”
In Plantation, we seek to provide just such opportunities, while at the
same time, inform and educate the public about healthy lifestyle
choices. Our recreation programs are fighting the alarming national
trend toward obesity by providing safety and structure, a sense of
belonging, improved relationships with peers and adults, and providing
opportunities to learn new skills in a supportive, healthy environment.
First among these efforts is a new program called Fit Together. The
program is geared toward 12-15 year olds, and is a fun way to get
healthy and active, make friends, and enjoy the beautiful outdoors.
Come join us in the parks and get fit together, and fit for life!
For more information on the Fit Together program, see Recreation
Quarterly, page 10.

Ask City Hall
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Do I need a permit to remove a tree?
You will need a permit from the Landscape
Architecture Department to remove trees even if
the tree is badly damaged or dead. You can reach
the Landscape Architecture Department directly at
954-797-2246 and they can give you more information.
The City suggests also checking with your
homeowners association. They may have their
own regulations about tree removal.
When will construction along University
Drive and Broward Boulevard be
completed?
Work is under way along University Drive
between Broward Boulevard and I-595 in
Plantation. This project will include repaving
University, adding drainage, extensive
landscaping, bike lanes, new street lights,
sidewalks and closing or restricting several
median openings that have allowed for crossovers
and left turns. Completion is expected this fall.
For updates visit the Florida Department of
Transportation website at www.dot.state.fl.us.
Construction continues on Broward Boulevard
from University Drive to west of State Road 7.
Improvements to this three-mile section of
Broward Blvd., include construction of a seawall
along the canal bank and adjoining sidewalk, new
streetlights, repaving, landscaping,
closing/revisions to some median openings and a
new bridge at NW 70th Avenue. Completion is
expected by August, 2006.
How do I apply for a City job?
For information on City of Plantation
employment opportunities and application procedures,
visit the City’s official website,
Plantation.org. Once there, you can review
available positions and job descriptions,
download applications, learn about employee
benefits, and more.
You may also obtain employment information
by visiting the Personnel department located in
City Hall at 400 NW 73rd Avenue. For general
information, contact the Personnel Department at
954-797-2240 or via e-mail at
Personnel@Plantation.org. The City of
Plantation is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
How do I get a brick entryway?
The beautiful brick entry walls you see
throughout Plantation are the result of the
Brick Entryway Partnership Program. A neighborhood
makes a request to the City for
approval to have an entryway feature
constructed for their community. Once an
application is approved, the City Engineer
makes a determination as to where the
entryway can be placed, what style can be
used and what the cost will be. The neighborhood
splits the cost of the project with the
City, and the Engineering Department administers
the project on their behalf. If you would
like more information on the Brick Entryway
Partnership Program, please contact the
Engineering Department at 954-797-2282.
Does the City have a first time
homebuyer program?
The City of Plantation does partner with the
Community Redevelopment Agency of Florida
to provide programs to assist individuals with
the purchase or repair of a home in
Plantation. For information, such as the
various programs available and qualifications,
please visit their website at
www.crafla.com. You can also apply online
via this site.
Where do I report code violations?
The Code Compliance Division is under the
direction of the Police Department. Code
complaints may be made to the Police
Department at any time during normal
business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. to
4:30 p.m.) by dialing 954-797-2267 or after
hours by dialing 954-797-2100. Code
complaints may also be made to individual
City departments. All highly imminent
hazardous code violations should be immediately
reported by dialing 954-797-2100. The
Police, Fire/Rescue or other emergency
specialists will respond to these emergencies.
Non-hazardous complaints will result in the
initial call being handled by personnel from
the Police Department. The appropriate
specialized inspector will complete action
follow-up.
When can we expect the completion
of the golf course?
As you drive by the golf course, you can see
our construction team is making great
progress. The club house is taking shape,
trees and grass are being planted, and most of
the holes are evident. Despite delays from the
hurricanes last year and the rainy weather we
are experiencing this season, we are moving
along almost as planned. Rather than then
original anticipated date of September, we
expect construction to be completed
November 2005.
We were told last year that we could
use clear bags for leaves? Now I am
being told no. Which is it?
Waste Management tested a pilot program
last year which allowed residents to place
leaves and other yard waste in clear bags and
put them out with their regular trash pick up.
After careful examination, it was determined
that the program would be cancelled.
Residents can still place leaves in clear bags,
but the bags will only be picked up every other
month with bulk trash. Other yard waste such
as branches, hedge trimmings, etc., need to be
bundled and tied into sections no more than
four-feet long, weighing less than forty pounds.
These items can be placed out with regular
garbage pick-up as long as they are accompanied
by at least one blue bag, which can be
filled with regular garbage. As always, should a
resident decide not to wait until bulk pick-up
to dispose of leaves, they may bring the leaves
and any other horticultural item the horticultural
transfer station at the Public Works
compound for disposal. For more information
on Waste Management see page 14.
Who do I contact to rent a
City facility?
To rent any of the City facilities, you need to
contact the Parks and Recreation Department.
You can reach them directly at 954-452-2518.
Don’t forget to visit our newly designed
website at www.Plantation.org
Plantation Quarterly Fall 2005
9

Fire Department
UPGRADES FLEET
The Fire Department recently took delivery of two new
emergency vehicles, a class A, type one pumper manufactured
by E-One of Ocala and a Type III Emergency Rescue
Vehicle manufactured by MedicMaster of Sanford. The
pumper (Engine 24, right) will be assigned to Station Six
and will replace Engine 14, a 1986 pumper, now housed
there. The Rescue vehicle represents the State of the Art in
emergency medical care. “It is designed with efficiency of
patient care in mind,” says Fire Chief Robert Pudney.
Our Community
WORKING TOGETHER
On March 24, the Plantation Police Department and Plantation
Fire Department responded to a structure fire at the Kings Pointe
Apartment Complex. Several other local fire departments assisted the
Plantation Fire Department in suppressing the blaze and recovering
whatever personal belongings could be salvaged from residents’
apartments.
The American Red Cross arrived on scene and provided on-site
assistance to fire and police personnel, assisted people with clothing,
shelter and re-location, and established a temporary shelter at the
Jim Ward Community Center for the approximately 160 people who
were left without a home. Plantation Police Officers and Parks and
Recreation personnel also helped staff the Jim Ward shelter.
Many citizens stopped by the apartment complex to offer donations
and support. Plantation Ford donated money to each family that was
displaced by the fire.
The Plantation Police Department appreciates the community’s
support. This incident was truly representative of our community
coming together to assist people in need.
Volunteer Fireman’s
ANNUAL BBQ
FIRST SUNDAY IN NOVEMBER
November 9, 2005
PINE ISLAND PARK
Look for your tickets in the mail!
You don’t want to miss the City
of Plantation Volunteer Firefighters
biggest fund raiser of the year!
See you there!
October
IS FIRE PREVENTION MONTH
Now is the time to Review, Check and Dispose
REVIEW your Home Fire Escape Plan and practice your escape drill.
CHECK smoke detectors and fire extinguishers. Remember to replace
smoke detector batteries when you change your clocks.
DISPOSE of old paint cans and other flammable items that may
present a hazard.
As part of fire prevention month, the Fire Department will conduct its
annual Poster and Essay contest. Elementary school children from all over
the City will be asked to submit their best interpretation of the NFPA
(National Fire Protection Agency) theme, “Use Candles Wisely.” Winners
will be announced at a City Council meeting in October and posted on our
website.
The Department will also conduct its annual Firefighter’s Memorial
Service on October 1. The service will honor deceased department
members. New plaques will also be unveiled. The service is held at
Firefighter’s Memorial Park, located west of Fire Administration on NW
65th Avenue.
School Starts
AUGUST 8
PLEASE DRIVE CAREFULLY
WATCH OUT FOR THE CHILDREN
IT’S NOT OVER YET. . .
Remember, there are still four months left in hurricane season – it
officially ends November 30 – and statistically, most hurricanes occur
during these coming months. Keep the hurricane supplies, shutters and
other preparatory items handy a little longer.
The Fire Department wants everyone to enjoy a safe and happy autumn
season. These few little tips will help keep you safe throughout the year.
10 Plantation Quarterly Fall 2005

OFFICERS
OF
THE
MONTH
APRIL
Detective Steven Bowser
MAY
Officer Jessica Hermelo
JUNE
Sergeant Brian Pillado
CIVILIAN OF THE QUARTER: STEWART JUSIM
Complaint Operator Stewart Jusim developed on his own time computer
generated programs for the Communications Center. They include an
employee Rolodex, complaint operator book, tow/repo logs, extra watch
logs, long distance telephone logs and dog logs. This allows all CDC
employees to access and input information. Many thanks to Stewart Jusim,
for a job well done!
Keeping
OUR CHILDREN SAFE
Wendy Schlosser, Education Advisory Board
With the warm months
upon us, our children often
are playing outside –
sometimes with adult supervision,
sometimes not. This
is a good time to speak to
them about safety and the
importance of being
cautious around strangers.
Teach children about the
“buddy system” and have them always designate a buddy to play with so that
they are never alone. Caution them about going near cars or with people
they don’t know, no matter what the stranger says. Act out situations such as
how to respond when strangers ask for help. You might want to give them a
password that can be used if someone other than you is to pick them up after
school or recreation activities. Most kids know not to talk to strangers, but
they often forget during emergencies. Never have your children’s names
visible on clothes or backpacks.
Include a discussion about what to do when family members or friends
offer rides or ask to join them. Let them know that people whom they know
can also cause bad things. Include a discussion about how to interact with
other family members or acquaintances.
There are a growing number of sexual predators/sexual offenders in our
communities. We need to take a proactive approach about keeping our
children safe. The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) has a
website – http://www.fdle.state.fl.us – that contains public record information
on offenders classified as sexual predators and sexual offenders under
Florida law. This information is made available to interested citizens to help
educate themselves about the possible presence of such offenders in their
local communities. You can also call the FDLE’s toll-free 24-hour hotline:
1-888-357-7332.
Continue having safety conversations with your children. We don’t want to
scare them, but we do want to protect them.
Plantation Police
BIKES FOR LITERACY PROGRAM
Hard work of 47 students pays off!
The Bikes for Literacy program
for the 2004-2005 school year
proved to be a continued success.
Twenty-nine students at Plantation
Elementary School and eighteen
students at Peters Elementary
School worked hard to earn good
grades and be on their best
behavior, and were rewarded with
a brand new bicycle,
helmet and bike lock.
In November of 2004
the students were
presented with contracts
that they had to bring
home to their parents to
review, sign and return
within ten days. The
students then had two marking periods to earn fifteen hundred
points based on report card grades and conduct scores. Students
who earned the points were awarded the bike, helmet and bike
lock.
Private businesses in the City provided funding to the Police
Department to purchase the bicycles, helmets and locks for the
students. We would like to thank Target and the other sponsors for
their generosity in making the program a success.
Congratulations to all the students who worked so hard to receive
their bikes!
Farewell
BUSTER, K-9 FRIEND
The Plantation Police Department sadly announces that Officer
Ron Massucco’s K-9 partner, Buster, was ill with terminal bone
cancer and unfortunately had to be euthanized. Buster was one of
the first dogs acquired by the police department when the K-9 unit
was formed in 1999. He served with distinction the entire time,
being involved in approximately
100 arrests. He
was trained in both
narcotics detection and
crime apprehension.
Buster was scheduled to
retire in only a couple of
months and was to be
gifted to his handler,
Officer Massucco, and live
in northern Georgia.
Officer Ron Massucco and
his K-9 partner, Buster.
Plantation Quarterly Fall 2005
11

COUNCILMAN
EDWARDS RESIGNS
The City of Plantation regretfully
announces the resignation of Councilman
Bruce Edwards from Plantation City
Council.
Bruce Edwards was first elected to
Council in 1997, and was recently
reelected for a third term in March 2005.
He is a Plantation native and is the first
elected official to be born in the City. In
addition to being President of his familyowned
and operated business,
Councilman Edwards served on the
Board of Trustees of Plantation General
Hospital, is a past Chairman of the
Plantation Police Retirement Board, and
is a Trustee on the Plantation Volunteer
Firefighter Retirement Board. He was the
driving force behind bringing the
Provider Pals program to two City schools
and the City’s sponsorship and participation
in several National Conference for
Community Justice (NCCJ) programs and
events.
“Bruce Edwards was a valued, integral
part of our team of elected officials,”
stated Mayor Rae Carole Armstrong.
“Throughout his three terms in office,
Bruce was a strong supporter of a
number of initiatives that will serve to
promote Plantation in the years to come
as a great place to live, work and play. He
enthusiastically pushed for the Plantation
Equestrian Center and the acquisition and
development of Plantation Preserve Golf
Course & Club, and was supportive of our
economic development initiatives, particularly
in the Gateway area.”
Mr. Edwards’ commitment to Plantation
was unwavering, and his decisions were
based on what he believed would have
the greatest positive effect on the needs of
Plantation’s residents, students and
businesses. Throughout his terms, he has
received numerous commendations and
accolades from the public and his peers
for his leadership and conviction. The
City of Plantation wishes him the very
best.
A City of Plantation Special Election will
be held on August 30 to fill this position.
Don’t forget to VOTE!
Plant of the Quarter
SOUTHERN RED CEDAR (Juniperus virginiana silicicola)
Patrice Sonnelitter, Associate Landscape Architect
With the exception of the Bald Cypress, Taxodium dictichum, we haven’t talked about conifers (those
plants that bear cones) in our Plant of the Quarter series. Conifers are an interesting group of plants
characterized by needle-like or flat scale-like foliage. The
foliage of the featured Plant of the Quarter, the
Southern Red Cedar is scale-like (overlaps like the
shingles on a roof) and soft to the touch. The
Southern Red Cedar is a member of the
Cupressaceae (Cypress) family. It is a native
of the southeastern United States and a variety
of the Eastern Red Cedar, whose wood is
cherished for its use for cedar chests and
aroma that keeps moths at bay. Silicicola
refers to the Latin name meaning growing in
sand. Junipers vary in their habit from low,
sprawling and sharp to the touch to tall, conical and soft to the touch. The Southern Red Cedar is a large
Juniper with a large, loose, somewhat open conical shape that looks at home in an open natural
landscape.
A BRIEF SUMMARY OF THIS SPECIES:
HABIT/ HEIGHT/ SPREAD The Southern
Red Cedar can reach a magnificent stature of 50’
but it is more likely will be found as a medium
sized evergreen conifer reaching 25 to 30’. It has a
feathery, fine texture and Christmas tree shape
when young maturing to a more irregular conical
shape with drooping upper branches. It width can
easily match its height. Its density and shape are its
most distinguishing features.
FOLIAGE/ FLOWERS/ FRUIT Its evergreen,
overlapping, scale-like leaves are 1/32 to 3/16
inches long. They are arranged opposite and
whorled along the branches. The foliage is fragrant
and ranges in color from bluish-green to yellowgreen.
In the winter separate sex plants
(dioecious) produce inconspicuous flowers. Conelike
male flowers are green. Female flowers are
yellow-green which produce round, 1/5-inch
powdery blue-green berries. The Southern red
cedar is one of the most valuable trees for wildlife,
which uses it as a major food source and shelter
for birds.
BARK AND WOOD The wood is reddish
brown and peels in strips. The wood, as well as the
foliage, is fragrant and repels insects.
HORTICULTURE It is accepting of a wide
range of soil types and pH ranges. It prefers dry,
sandy soil (silicicola), full sun and well-drained
soil. Once planted, it prefers not to be disturbed
or transplanted. It is salt and drought tolerate
and often seen as a volunteer in disturbed areas.
Plant in a fertile area if possible and water until
established.
LANDSCAPE USE Because of its shape and
density, it is more valuable for its screening ability
than its ability to produce shade. It makes an
excellent wind break or privacy hedge as tall
hedges when planted in a staggered row. Set as a
background tree it will make an excellent specimen
plant. This plant could be placed on the perimeter
of a medium to large sized lot. A number of
Southern Red Cedars are being planted on the
Plantation Preserve Golf course to provide a
naturalized look.
PROBLEMS/ PEST Bagworms, spider mites,
cedar-apple rust and Juniper blight.
PURCHASING AND PLANTING When
shopping for any tree, remember not to be tempted
by a tree that does not demonstrate good branch
structure or that has girdled roots (roots that
encircle the root ball and run around the edge of
the container). Keep looking. Look for a straight,
single trunk and evenly spaced branches around
the whole tree. Always plant to expose the root
flare. It is common with nursery grown plant
material to have extra soil over the root ball. Before
planting, carefully scrape away the excess soil and
small surface roots until you expose a definite flare
at the base. This is where you will find the beginnings
of the true roots. Create an earthen ring
about six-inch high and several feet from the trunk
to retain extra water until the tree is established.
Apply two to three inches of mulch to retain
moisture, to discourage weed growth and to keep
that nasty string trimmer that loves to bite into its
tender bark. Don’t allow the mulch to touch the
bark. The trunk does not do well with the extra
moisture and the mulch encourages insects to
nest there.
12 Plantation Quarterly Fall 2005
GOOD LUCK AND HAPPY BOTANIZING!

Container Gardening
QUESTION: I just moved in to Plantation
and I am living in a condo with a small balcony. I
moved from a house where I had a ton of land and
lots of room to garden. I feel lost without my
plants. Are there any options for someone like me
who doesn’t have a yard?
ANSWER: Container gardening is the perfect
hobby for renters, apartment and condo dwellers,
and plant-obsessed homeowners who cannot fit
enough plants into their yard. Containers allow us
to move plants around, envelope our balconies in
lush foliage, grow vegetables and herbs right
outside the back door and even have plants
indoors! Fruits and vegetables can be grown in
pots or hanging baskets on your patio. There are
many varieties of peppers, tomatoes, strawberries,
and other edible goodies that are perfect for
containers.
One of the biggest challenges in container
gardening is lack of proper drainage. The soil
and/or the pot can cause this. Without proper
drainage, toxic salts build up in the pot. Even with
the proper soil and container, leaching about once
a month is important to maintain a healthy
container garden. To leach your pots, you can use
your garden hose, or move indoor plant to a sink
or bathtub and water very, very generously to wash
the salts out of the containers.
Soil should be light, porous and contain some
organic matter for texture and nutrients. A heavy
City
RECEIVES AWARD FOR
URBAN FORESTRY PROGRAM
Laura Sanagorski,
Urban Forestry Program Coordinator
The City of Plantation was recognized among all
other cities in Florida for its Outstanding Urban
Forestry Program. Members of the Department of
Landscape Architecture were present to receive this
special award at the annual Trees Florida 2005
Awards Luncheon on June 13 at the Weston
Innisbrook Resort in Palm Harbor. The awards
luncheon was part of the annual Trees Florida
conference, attended by staff from the Department
of Landscape Architecture to stay informed of
current arboricultural and horticultural issues and
research. The application for this award included
many of the City’s outstanding educational and
environmental urban forestry programs. The City is
proud to receive this special honor and plans to
maintain its commitment to its urban forest.
ASK MARGE and FRED
Marge and Fred love to help you solve problems with plants,
trees, gardens and landscaping. Each quarter, they are happy to
answer a new question from you.
clay soil holds too much water and not
enough oxygen for your plant’s root system.
Home and garden centers sell good potting
soils that are perfect for container gardening.
Most potting mixes contain fertilizer, so you
won’t need to add any on your own.
As for the pot you choose, make sure it has
excellent drainage and does not hold any
standing water. Your container should have
many drainage holes. If you would like to use
a decorative pot without any drainage, use a
pot that drains properly and place it inside
the decorative one. As long as the drainage is
right, feel free to get creative and plant in
unconventional containers! We’ve used
buckets, barrels, an old wagon and even a
shoe!
Remember that containers dry out rather
quickly, especially when exposed to sun and
wind. Clay pots lose water the quickest
because they allow evaporation from their
sides. Container plants should be watered
every few days. You can monitor soil moisture
by feeling it with your fingers, or lifting the
pot to feel how light it is, which indicates soil
moisture content. Over-watering can be as
harmful as under-watering, so make sure you
water appropriately.
Consider the amount of light the plants you
choose need. Vegetables, fruits, and flowering
plants need the most light. Make sure they
are placed in sunny spots in your yard or
patio, or around the brightest windows of
your home. East and southeast-facing
windows receive morning sunlight, while west
and southwest-facing windows get the
afternoon sunlight. If you want to have
container plants in darker areas of your
home, there are many plants that are appropriate
for low light conditions. Ask for
suggestions at your favorite garden center!
Questions can be directed to the City of
Plantation Department of Landscape
Architecture at 954-797-2246 or
AskMargeandFred@Plantation.org. You
can also visit our website at
www.Plantation.org> Departments>
Landscape Architecture.
YOU’VE WAITED ALL YEAR!
And it’s almost time – Mark your calendar!
SIXTH ANNUAL
CITY OF PLANTATION TREEDAY!
Saturday - October 29 - 9:00 AM
If you were there last year, we know you’ll be there again. TreeDay! is a half-day
residential tree-care symposium. Plan to arrive at 8:30 AM on Saturday, October 29,
2005 for breakfast and registration. The program will begin at 9:00. Speakers will
include a local palm tree genius and a lawn and turf expert. Bring your questions,
your creativity and some good luck. You’ll leave with some great ideas and maybe a
giveaway prize.
This year’s TreeDay! will be held at Volunteer Park, located at 12050 West Sunrise
Blvd. If you haven’t been to Volunteer Park yet, TreeDay! is the day to experience the
new wetlands, walk the two miles of pathways, and visit the Plantation Equestrian
Center. Bring the children to play at Camp Everglades, the entertaining new
Everglades-themed playground. Questions about this year’s TreeDay! can be directed
to Laura Sanagorski at 954-797-2652 or Lsanagorski@plantation.org.
SEE YOU THERE!
Plantation Quarterly Fall 2005
13

WIN A YARD MAKEOVER WITH NATURESCAPE BROWARD
You’ve seen it on TV. Now Broward County
residents are invited to enter The NatureScape
Makeover contest to win a complete yard
makeover. Entries will be accepted September 1
through September 30, 2005 at all county
libraries.
A team of landscape experts will design the
grand prizewinner’s yard according to
NatureScape principles. These landscaping ideas
focus on simple ways to create and maintain
Florida-friendly yards that conserve water and
reduce pollution in our waterways. There are
nearly 1,000 certified NatureScape yards,
schools and businesses in Broward County.
The winner’s yard design will
showcase ideas such as:
Mulched beds of beautiful native plants
that require little to no water or fertilizer
Native shade trees placed to reduce airconditioning
costs
Wildlife habitat including a water feature
for butterflies and birds
Ultra-efficient irrigation system that waters
in zones according to plant needs
Solar powered decorative lighting
Driveway or walkway laid with permeable
pavers to reduce storm water runoff
HOW TO ENTER
Visit NatureScape Broward website at
www.broward.org/naturescape to print a
registration form and review contest rules.
Broward County residents may submit a completed
form along with videotapes, photos, or drawings
and a 100-word or less description of why their
yard deserves to win a makeover. Entries can be
dropped off at Broward County libraries from
September 1-30. The winner will be announced in
November and the yard transformation will take
place in January 2006. For more information on
the contest or NatureScape certification, call
NatureScape Broward 954-519-0317.
PUBLIC WORKS PIPELINE
“PAINT IT BROWARD”
Spruce up Your Home's Exterior with “Paint It Broward”
Recycled Paint Program.
Broward County’s Office of Integrated Waste Management
collects and recycles latex paint, then offers it to the
community free of charge. The recycled paint in beige, light
gray, off white, terracotta, and turquoise, is available in 5-
gallon containers, and is intended for personal residential use
only, not to be sold or used in commercial operations.
Please call Public Works at 954-452-2535 to place order
and arrange pick up.
FREE MULCH
One-hundred percent natural organic mulch is available
24 hours a day, 7 days a week at our Recycling Drop-off
Center at 750 NW 91st Avenue. Free to anyone regardless of
residency or place of business.
We will even load it into your truck if you stop by between
the hours of 7:00-7:30 a.m. and 2:30-3:00 p.m.
WORK TOGETHER FOR FASTER BULK PICKUP
The City of Plantation and Waste Management are asking for your help.
Waste Management has historically used rear loader trucks to remove bulk
waste. Over the years, the bulk waste is increasingly larger so they have
incorporated the use of “clam” trucks. These trucks have an arm that
extends out and grabs the bulk waste. If regular solid waste/garbage bags
(blue bags) are included in the bulk pick-up pile, they are picked up as
well. When mixed, this is classified as illegal dumping. Drivers are trying to
separate the blue bags out when needed, but they are finding it almost
impossible. Also, when any waste is placed in close proximity to your
mailbox, there is concern the removal may result in property damage.
Additionally, to insure the safety of WM drivers, mirrors, glass table tops,
window panes, plate glass, etc. will not be picked up unless they are
properly and safely placed in a rigid container. Thank you for your assistance
and understanding in this matter.
SEPARATE BLUE BAGS FROM BULK WASTE.
PLACE ALL TRASH AWAY FROM MAILBOX AND VEHICLES TO
AVOID POSSIBLE DAMAGE.
GLASS, WINDOWS, MIRRORS, ETC. MUST BE PLACED SAFELY IN
A RIGID CONTAINER.
BULK WASTE REMOVAL SCHEDULE C August to December 2005
EAST OF UNIVERSITY DRIVE:
August 7 – 12
October 3 – 8
December 5 – 10
Multi Family Condominium: October 5
WEST OF UNIVERSITY DRIVE:
August 15, 16, 17 & 20
October 10, 11, 12 & 15
December 12, 13, 14 &17
Multi Family Condominium: October 13
14 Plantation Quarterly Fall 2005

Sewer Backup
WE MAY BE ABLE TO HELP!
Juliette Pedlar, Customer Service Manager
Jeff Jones, Utilities Maintenance Supervisor
There are few things more annoying than
a sewer backup and indeed they always
seem to occur at the least opportune
moments. The Utilities Department realizes
this and will therefore provide 24-hour
service to clear sewer backups and
determine if the problem is in the City’s
sewer system or in the
private plumbing system.
If you are experiencing
a sewer backup, you will
need to determine if the
problem is isolated to just
one fixture in the house.
If it is, the problem is in the plumbing
associated with that fixture and is the
homeowner’s responsibility. Due to the
plumbing layout of all buildings, the backup
must affect the entire house for the City to
be able to correct it.
In order for the Utilities Department to
clear a sewer backup, the sewer “cleanout”
must be accessible. The cleanout provides
access to the sewer service line for cleaning
and maintenance. It is usually a three or
four-inch PVC or brass cap in the ground
within five feet of the building. If you don’t
know where your cleanout is, you will need
to find it, possibly with the help of a
plumber. Please note, the cleanout is located
on private property and the crew will need
to have your permission to access it. You
will be asked to sign a liability waiver
releasing the City from any damages to
private property before they can start
work.
When our crew arrives, they will clear
the blockage and set up a time to return
and tele-inspect the sewer service line.
This is done by means of a small TV
camera inserted into the
cleanout and pushed through
the service. The service
worker will be able to see the
problem and determine if it is
in the City’s sewer system or
in your private plumbing. If
the problem is in the City’s system, our
crew will arrange a time to repair it as
soon as possible, usually within a few
days depending on the severity of the
problem.
The City is not able to make any
repairs to your private plumbing system.
(This is usually the portion of the sewer
line between the sidewalk or swale and
the house.)
Our Utilities Department is committed
to providing the very best service
possible and we are here to help 24-
hours a day, 7 days a week. Just call
954-797-2290 and tell the customer
service clerk that you are experiencing
a sewer backup and that your cleanout
been located and is accessible.
Park East
TRAILHEAD PARK
Construction almost complete
Demolition of the Texaco Station on NW 9th Court
in the Park East Neighborhood is complete.
Installation of playground equipment and
landscaping began in June. The park will allow for
access to a future C-12 Canal Multi Use Recreational
Trail (MURT). Amenities included on this site are: a
100 square-foot shelter, a 1200 square-foot tot lot
area, benches, bike racks, interpretive signage, a
drinking fountain, a neighborhood sign, a decorative
fence along the east side to separate this site from
the neighboring commercial site, a central turf area
surrounded by a turf knoll and four on-street
parking spaces along NW 9th Drive.
Native trees, palms and shrubs, sod and an
irrigation system will enhance this passive park. As
part of the development of the site, the intersection
of NW 9th Court and NW 9th Drive will be reconfigured
to improve circulation throughout this area.
The project is being funded through the Community
Development Block Grant program and the City’s
Road and Traffic Funds program.
Easy
UTILITIES PAYMENTS
Paying your utility bill just got easier, thanks to three
additional Payment Boxes similar to the one on the west
side of City Hall.
Look for the new, clearly identified boxes at the Jim
Ward Center, Central Park and Volunteer Park. Save a
stamp and get your payment in faster with less hassle –
anytime you want!
Customers can drop off checks or money orders along
with their bill stub, address or account number twentyfour
hours a day. Payments are collected Monday through Friday at
3:00 PM from the Jim Ward Center, Central Park or Volunteer Park
and credited the next business day. Payments dropped off at City Hall
are collected Monday through Friday at 8:00 AM and credited the day
of collection. Payments deposited after the pick up times
are credited the following business day.
Automatic Funds Transfer Always Available
Customers can also choose Automatic Funds Transfer
(AFT) to pay their bills. This allows our bank to directly
debit your bank account on approximately the same day
every month. Once you choose AFT you will still receive
your monthly bill, but the date the payment will be
deducted from your account will be noted on your bill.
The account holder’s signature is required to use this
program, and can be faxed or mailed to the City. To obtain the
signature form, go on line at www.Plantation.org, call
954-797-2290 or visit us at City Hall.
Plantation Quarterly Fall 2005
15