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Commissioner’s Message

Hello District 1 Neighbors

hope this message finds you in good health and looking forward to the cooler
fall temperatures. I’d like to welcome our returning snowbirds back! In this
Inewsletter, I want to address a matter of utmost importance that is affecting our
community profoundly.
In response to the tragic incident at Champlain Towers South in Surfside, Senate Bill
4-D was passed to ensure the safety of properties in Florida. This legislation
mandates that condo associations conduct structural integrity reserve studies every
ten years. Undoubtedly, this requirement comes at a significant cost to condo
John Herbst owners. The bill requires associations to augment their reserves substantially,
District 1 Commissioner eliminating their ability to waive or reduce owner contributions. This situation is
City of Fort Lauderdale
jherbst@fortlauderdale.gov already directly impacting our community, particularly our senior residents, many of
whom are retirees living on fixed incomes.

District 1 is home to many high-rise condos and co-ops, all affected by SB 4-D. For
our elderly neighbors who have been a vital part of our community for years, this
has resulted in substantial assessments, some as high as $60 K. I understand the
immense burden this place on our seniors, who may now find themselves
contemplating relocation from the places they’ve called home for decades.
In light of this, I took it upon myself to introduce a resolution aimed at addressing
the severe impact of this bill on our seniors. The City Commission and I will work on
resolution language that urges the Florida Legislature to establish a grant or low-
City Hall, 8th Floor interest loan program specifically for full-time residents facing these substantial
100 N Andrews Ave
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33311 repair bills. It is my firm belief that the state, which created the legislation driving
this issue, should step in to assist our community members. The state possesses the
resources and abilities that localities like ours do not. In addition, I was able to
include this as an item on our legislative agenda for our lobbyists to work on in the
upcoming session.
I want to assure you all that I am steadfast in my commitment to advocating for the
seniors of District 1. Their well-being is our priority, and I will continue to work
tirelessly on their behalf. If you or someone you know is a senior impacted by SB 4-
D, I encourage you to reach out to state House Representative Chip LaMarca.
Together, we can make our voices heard and work towards a solution that supports
Office Contact our community in this challenging time.
Melissa Whiddon
District 1 Commission Assistant Representative Chip LaMarca: Capitol Office
mwhiddon@fortlauderdale.gov 418 The Capitol
954.828.5033
402 South Monroe Street
Tallahassee, FL 32399-1300
Phone: (850) 717-5100

District Office
1827 Northeast 24th Street
Lighthouse Point, FL 33064-7742
Phone: (954) 784-4531

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