Eminent Domain not an issue in Broward County

Nov
08

I get a little worried when you hear all the goings on with Eminent Domain these days. I hate to hear of the sad stories that make the news where a little old lady has been evicted from her home because she wouldn't sell it to developers to put in a new shopping mall. These seem to be the only stories that make headlines. Well here in our little corner of the world, Fort Lauderdale has shown the right side of this issue and we should all be proud.

It seems that Hollywood, Florida listens to its residents, whether they are snowbirds or full time residents. There has been an issue as to whether certain parcels of land should be used for new developments. The proposed developments would be a perfect match for new offices, retail shops, and a multi-story parking lot in downtown. Each prospect would bring in new revenue to Hollywood and that is always a good thing.

The issue most residents had with the proposal is that the proposed buildings to be torn down include the Fred Lippman Multi-Purpose Center and the Hollywood Shuffleboard Center. These two buildings are hot spots for the older crowd here in Hollywood. The Shuffleboard Center, located at Dixie Highway and Polk Street, alone has over 180 members. The Lippman Center is used for multiple civic meetings and recreational activities. These two properties were conspicuously taken off the list last night that was unanimously voted on by the city commissioners. The vote last night will enable Hollywood residents to vote on January 29th as to whether they would like to move property on the north side of the downtown area from tax exempt status to a developed area. The properties in question include

Several empty parking lots
A soon-to-be abandoned firehouse
An office building that houses the Chamber of Commerce

I like it when democracy works to the citizens' advantage. So thank you city commissioners for actually hearing what your residents said and going in the direction they wanted you to go.

Talk to you later,

Christine

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