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Hello Friends & Neighbors,
I am grateful to be able to reach you through this medium.
Community engagement is at the forefront of my mission to provide resources, events, and support for our residents and businesses. My motto of "Putting You First...Keeps Us First" will continue to be my guide. I look forward to engaging with you more in the future! Please take a look at the various events, projects, programs and share with your contacts.
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This June, I join communities across Broward County and across the nation in recognizing National Great Outdoors Month, a time dedicated to celebrating the beauty, value, and importance of our public lands, parks, waterways, and natural spaces. It is an opportunity to encourage outdoor recreation, environmental stewardship, and connection with nature—whether through exploring local parks, enjoying time on the water, or simply appreciating the natural environment that sustains our health and well-being.
In Florida, our great outdoors are especially defined by our unique coastal ecosystems and the Everglades, which together offer unmatched opportunities for recreation, wildlife viewing, and conservation, while reminding us of the importance of protecting these fragile and irreplaceable natural treasures.
| I am honored to be recognized during Caribbean American Heritage Month! Our contributions to this country are vast and wide as we continue to make our mark. | | |
Division Spotlight: Broward County Transit
This month, I am proud to spotlight Broward County Transit (BCT) and its continued efforts to expand transportation options for residents and visitors throughout Broward County. As our community welcomes the excitement of soccer's biggest summer, BCT has enhanced service to help fans travel conveniently and affordably to Miami Stadium matches and World Cup Watch Parties at Amerant Bank Arena.
New transportation options include the Miami Stadium Express, expanded service on the 441 Breeze and 102 Express routes, and dedicated Park & Ride service from convenient Broward County locations, including the Miramar, Sheridan Street, and Broward Boulevard Park & Ride facilities. These enhancements are designed to reduce traffic, improve accessibility, and connect our community to major regional events.
I encourage residents to plan ahead and take advantage of these convenient transportation services. For schedules, reservations, and additional information, visit bctsoccerfans.org or contact Broward County Transit Customer Service at 954-357-8400. Together, we are making it easier to connect Broward County to the opportunities, events, and experiences that bring our community together.
| Broward County FREE Watch Parties | |
In partnership with the Florida Panthers Association, Broward County will host four public World Cup watch parties at the Amerant Bank Arena (Arena) in Sunrise. Fans will have the opportunity to experience the energy and excitement of international soccer in a family-friendly environment. Attendance and parking are free. Reserve up to six tickets through SeatGeek.com or AmerantBankArena.com. The scheduled watch parties are on:
- Saturday, July 11 @ 5 PM (TBD) - Quarterfinals
- Sunday, July 19 @ 3 PM (TBD) – The Final
Broward County Transit will provide special Park & Ride transportation service to the Arena watch parties and designated match transportation hubs.
| Staycation Savings for Residents | Looking for a local getaway? Florida residents can enjoy 15% savings and a $50 hotel credit at Omni Fort Lauderdale Hotel. From rooftop views and poolside afternoons to vibrant dining experiences and coastal sophistication throughout the property, your next getaway is closer to home than ever before. Book your stay and learn more about this limited time offer today. | Swim Lessons at a Reduced Cost | Drowning is the leading cause of death for children up to four years old in Florida. Broward County Parks is working to combat this statistic through its SWIM Central Program, which offers discount coupons for Learn to Swim programs for County residents. Sign up for water safety lessons and help spread the word. Coupons for low-cost swimming lessons are for both children and adults. |
Registration is Open!
The 18th Annual Climate Leadership Summit will be Nov. 4-6, 2026 at the newly expanded Broward County Convention Center in Fort Lauderdale. Register here before Aug. 31 to enjoy early bird pricing.
Join us for an engaging three-day program that will commence with a technology-focused Innovation Day on Wednesday, Nov. 4, followed by two days of programming featuring global, national, and local leaders and experts.
| Broward Cultural Division |
Apply for up to $50,000 in funding!
The Broward Cultural Division is accepting applications for FY27 Arts & Cultural Sponsorship funding to support festivals and special events throughout Broward County.
Virtual Workshops
Learn about eligibility and the application process via Zoom:
- July 1 | 12 PM
- July 15 | 10:30 AM
- October 14 | 10:30 AM
RSVP through Eventbrite to receive login details.
Learn more at Broward.org/Arts/Funding or contact Amanda Covach at 954-357-7458 or acovach@broward.org.
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Apply for the Roy W. Dean Film Grant for Summer 2026! The grant is open to documentaries, narrative features, short films, and web series budgeted at $500,000 or less. Films can be at any stage of production. The grant seeks unique films that contribute to society.
The winner will receive a cash prize of $3,500 and thousands more in donated film products and services.
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Inspire Others with Your Story
Calling all certified small businesses (CBE, SBE, DBE, ACDBE), film and TV professionals, and all other OESBD clients to share your success stories, journeys, challenges, and triumphs. From our Kauffman FastTrac® NewVenture graduates to businesses provided with international trade assistance or designated prime contractors, entrepreneurs excel in Broward County and we want to hear from you.
Let us highlight your business milestones.
Telling your story can spotlight your business; help others; attract customers, highlight your organization to potential partners or investors; and motivate other entrepreneurs. That's a win-win!
Click here to share your story today!
| Tune In to Broward Connects | |
Step into the heart of Broward County with Broward Connects—the podcast that brings you closer to the people, policies, and stories shaping our community. From local government updates to inspiring human-interest features, each episode offers engaging conversations that both inform and connect.
Whether you’re a resident, a visitor, or simply curious about life in Broward County, Broward Connects is your front-row seat to everything that matters.
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Connect with Broward
Residents and businesses can easily report and track service requests to the County 24/7 using the free MyBroward app, offered on both Android and iOS devices, or by accessing the system online through MyBroward.Broward.org. From reporting missed garbage pickup and general consumer complaints to updating a certificate of insurance or pet owner information, MyBroward, a service of 311 Broward, is here to help. Residents can choose to receive status updates by text or email. Similar assistance is available by dialing 3-1-1 or visiting them online.
| | Upcoming Events & Opportunities | | OESBD has assigned small business goals to projects . These projects have not yet been advertised for solicitation. However, this is the time to get your business certified and prepared! If you have not already done so, please ensure that your company is a registered vendor with Broward County. It's free to do so! Become a registered vendor by signing up for BPRO, powered by Bonfire, the new Broward County Procurement system. | | |
The Planning and Economic Development Department is responsible for coordinating the City’s housing programs available through state and federal programs. The City partners with a local vendor, Community Redevelopment Associates of Florida, Inc. (CRAFLA), to implement and process the City’s housing programs.
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Housing Grant Programs: The City of Pembroke Pines is pleased to offer purchase assistance for very low-to-moderate-income households seeking to buy a property for use as their primary residence. Funding is available on a first-come, first-qualified basis until program funds are exhausted. Assistance comes in the form of a 0% interest deferred second loan that converts to a grant if all program conditions are met.
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Sewer Connection Grant: The City of Pembroke Pines is pleased to offer a grant program to assist low- to moderate-income homeowners who are required to connect to Broward County’s sewer system. The program is administered by Community Redevelopment Associates of Florida, Inc. (CRA) on behalf of the City. CRA will manage the intake process and review applications for eligibility. This program provides eligible Pembroke Pines residents with up to $10,000 in financial assistance to cover costs.
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Pembroke Pines is committed to supporting businesses of all sizes by providing resources, connections, and opportunities to grow and thrive. Whether you’re starting a new venture, expanding, or relocating, the City offers a variety of tools to help your business succeed:
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Bids & Awards: Explore current bids and awarded contracts.
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Building Permits: Access information and applications for permits.
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Local Business Tax Receipt (LBTR): Learn how to obtain your business tax receipt.
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Business Relocation: Discover the benefits of bringing your business to Pembroke Pines.
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Chamber of Commerce: Connect with the Miramar–Pembroke Pines Regional Chamber of Commerce.
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City Charter & Code of Ordinances: Review local regulations and ordinances.
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Demographics: Gain insights from city demographics and census data.
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Film Permits: Apply for film permits and learn filming guidelines.
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Shop Local / Business Directory: Support and explore local businesses in the Pines.
| | Housing Assistance Programs | |
The City of Miramar's Housing Division is dedicated to providing affordable, safe, and stable housing to enhance community well-being and support low- to moderate-income families in achieving economic success and a high quality of life. The city has created the following programs to aid with housing:
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First-time Homebuyer Program: This program provides down payment and closing cost assistance to very-low and low-income first-time homebuyers. The amount of assistance varies with income level and is available on a first-come, first-qualified basis until no more funding remains under the program. Assistance is in the form of a 15-year, 0% interest deferred second loan that reverts to a grant if all program conditions are met. Please contact City’s grant consultant, Community Revitalization Affiliates, Inc at (954) 939-3271 for up-to-date funding availability
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Residential Utility Connection: This program provides grant assistance up to $5,000 to connect to the City’s main sewer system. This activity benefits low income persons. This is a one-time grant provided by the City of Miramar. A second mortgage is not applied to the property.
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Rental Assistance Program: This program provides up to $8,000 to assist eligible households with the required upfront rental deposit (first and/or last month’s rent) and/or utility connection/start-ups to move into a new unit. This is a one-time grant provided by the City of Miramar and is not on-going monthly rental assistance.
| | Business Opportunities in Miramar | | |
Miramar offers a variety of programs and resources to help businesses succeed by fostering growth, supporting local entrepreneurs, and creating opportunities to connect with city contracts and the broader business community. From grants and financial incentives to counseling services, networking events, and streamlined permitting, the City is dedicated to making Miramar a place where businesses can start strong, expand with confidence, and thrive for the long term.
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Business Industry Development (BID) Program – Supports local, small, minority, and women-owned businesses by facilitating contracting and development opportunities.
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Contracting Opportunities – The city maintains bid opportunities, with notifications available through Onvia DemandStar. Preference points are available for local and small business bidders.
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Small Business Signage Program – Provides up to $10,000 in financial assistance for signage improvements.
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Small Business Grant Program – Offers funds to help businesses grow and expand operations.
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Vacant Storefront Cover Program – A no-cost program to install artistic coverings on vacant storefronts to improve commercial corridors.
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Vendor Registration – Businesses can register online to do business with the City of Miramar, with a brochure available to guide the process.
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Business Services – Free counseling through SCORE and the Miramar-Pembroke Pines Chamber, commercial rehabilitation assistance for property owners, expedited permitting for certain projects, and planning/zoning support.
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Miramar's Economic Development and Housing Department will City of Miramar's Commissioner Yvette Colbourne's Small Business Grant Program, which provides up to $5,000 in funding to eligible small businesses and nonprofit organizations operating within the City of Miramar. The program is designed to support capacity building and business growth through investments in equipment, technology, marketing, inventory, salaries, and other eligible business expenses.
To qualify, organizations must have ten or fewer employees, have operated in Miramar for at least one year, and meet all application requirements. Completed applications will be accepted from June 29 through July 13, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. I encourage eligible businesses and nonprofits to learn more about this opportunity and attend the required grant workshop before applying.
| | Explore Miramar with the Mira Motion Community Shuttle | | |
Getting around Miramar is easy and free with the Mira Motion Community Shuttle. Four routes connect neighborhoods to key destinations, local attractions, and Broward County Transit, offering a convenient option for work, school, appointments, and more. All routes begin and end at the Miramar Town Center Transportation Hub.
Hours: Monday through Friday
(No service on weekends or holidays)
Key Stops Include:
• Pembroke Lakes Mall
• Miramar Town Center
• Multi Service Complex
The shuttle is free to ride. Connecting to Broward County Transit may require fares.
For route information or assistance, call 954 602 3194 (Monday through Friday, 7 am to 4:30 pm). TTY users may dial 954 602 3802 or AT&T Relay 7 1 1.
Holidays with no service include New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, Juneteenth, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day.
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The City of Miramar presents the Kitchen Sync Classic Pickleball Tournament! All skill levels are welcome and coed. Enjoy music, giveaways, refreshments, and snacks while competing in a fun community tournament.
Sunday, June 28, 2026 | 7:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Lakeshore Park: 8501 Sherman Circle, Miramar, FL 33025
Call more information: (954) 602-3178
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The City of Hollywood and Broward County are committed to supporting residents through a variety of affordable housing initiatives. Both local governments offer housing assistance programs designed to increase access to safe, stable, and affordable housing. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or a renter facing financial hardship, there are resources available to help.
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City of Hollywood First-Time Homebuyer Purchase Assistance Program: Qualified buyers can receive a deferred payment loan at 0% interest, 15-year term, up to $50,000 to purchase property within Hollywood's eligible Neighborhood Pride areas. For more information visit the Hollywood Homebuyer Purchase Assistance Program
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The City of Hollywood’s Rental Assistance - Eviction Prevention program, using State Housing Initiative Partnership (SHIP) funds, offers help to renters who might be on the verge of homelessness due to not being able to afford their rent. The funds for the program are administered, by the City of Hollywood Community Development Division, as a grant and no repayment is required. For more information visit the Rental Assistance - Eviction Prevention
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The Housing Rehabilitation Loan is secured by a mortgage and promissory note prepared by the City. The terms of the mortgage and note are as follows: A deferred payment loan for thirty 30 years, unless the home is sold, rented, ceases to be the primary residence of the homeowner, or is transferred or conveyed by any other means. Zero (0) percent interest. The debt is payable in full on the maturity date set forth in the Mortgage that is thirty years from the date of the signing of the Promissory Note and Mortgage. For more information visit Home Rehabilitation & Repair
| | Business Opportunities in Hollywood | | |
Hollywood is the ideal place to open or relocate a business. Centrally located between Miami and Fort Lauderdale, the city offers direct access to Port Everglades, one of the largest passenger and cargo ports in the world, and is minutes from Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, making it a hub for commerce and connectivity. Combined with Hollywood’s world-class beaches, vibrant downtown, welcoming residents, and business-friendly city administration, the city creates an environment where businesses can thrive.Hollywood provides a variety of resources and services to support new and existing businesses:
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Bids – View active vendor bids and learn how to become a registered city vendor.
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Building Permits – Apply for the permits required to start or expand your business.
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Business Disaster Preparedness – Guidance to help businesses prepare for emergencies.
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Film Permits – Obtain permits to film productions within the City of Hollywood.
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Local Business Tax Receipt – Requirements for obtaining and renewing a business tax receipt to legally operate.
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New Business Listings – Monthly updates on new and transferred businesses in Hollywood.
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Security Alarm Registration – Information on permits and fees for installing business security alarm systems.
The city also partners with regional resources such as Enterprise Florida, the Greater Fort Lauderdale Alliance, the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce, the Hollywood Community Redevelopment Agency, and Port Everglades to further support business growth.
| | City of Hollywood Transit Options | | |
The City of Hollywood offers two convenient local shuttle services for residents and visitors:
Sun Shuttle (Ride Circuit app)
- On-demand service in two zones (East and West), with transfers at City Hall
- Cost: $2 per rider
- Hours:
- Zone 1 East: Weekdays 10 am to 9 pm, Weekends 10 am to 10 pm
- Zone 2 West: Weekdays 7 am to 6 pm, Weekends 11 am to 7 pm
- Download the "Ride Circuit" app from Google Play or the App Store and check for promo codes
Holly Go Community Shuttle
- Free fixed-route shuttle within Hollywood
- Connects to Broward County Transit, Sun Shuttle, and other regional transit options
- Hours:
- Orange Line: Weekdays 8 am to 5 pm, Weekends 9 am to 5 pm
- Red Line: Off-peak season weekends 8 am to 7 pm; peak season weekends 8 am to 8 pm
- Blue Line: Daily 9 am to 5 pm
- Green Line: Daily 9 am to 5 pm
For more information, call 954 967 4357 or email transit@hollywoodfl.org
,Monday through Thursday, 7 am to 6 pm.
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Make Your Home Safer, More Comfortable, and More Beautiful
The City of Hollywood is offering two incredible Home Repair Programs to help homeowners make upgrades that improve safety, comfort, and affordability. Don’t wait — there is no waiting list, and you could qualify today!
Neighborhood Pride
• Up to $40,000 Conditional Grant for exterior improvements like roofs, impact windows & doors, fences & driveways, exterior paint, and landscaping
• Income limit: 120% AMI
• Homes must be in an eligible census tract
Housing Rehabilitation
• Up to $150,000 Deferred Loan for interior & exterior repairs including HVAC, electrical, roof, structural, and more
• No monthly payments required
• Income limit: 80% AMI
• Available citywide and can be combined with Neighborhood Pride
Apply Today — No Waiting List!
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The City of Hollywood is offering a rare opportunity for property owners to clear qualifying liens — for free. The Lien Amnesty Program provides eligible residential and commercial property owners a 100% reduction of qualifying property liens, but the window is closing. Applications are only being accepted through June 30, 2026.
To qualify, all properties you own within the City of Hollywood must be fully compliant with City Codes, Ordinances, and Florida Building Codes. Eligibility requirements and application fees apply.
Don't miss this chance for a fresh financial start — the deadline is just around the corner.
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To help residents prepare for hurricane season, the City of Hollywood will begin offering free sand and sandbags on a first-come, first-served basis starting Monday, June 29th. Hollywood residents may receive up to 10 sandbags per household, while supplies last.
Residents must first visit a designated verification site with a valid driver’s license or government-issued photo ID showing a Hollywood address to receive up to 10 empty sandbags. Once registered, residents may collect sand at one of the City’s sand distribution locations and are responsible for bringing their own shovel to fill their sandbags. Sand will be available while supplies last. For locations and more information click here!
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Join the City of Hollywood as we dedicate the “The Garden of We” COVID-19 Memorial. The memorial is dedicated in memory of those we lost, and to the medical professionals and first responders who risked their lives to protect ours during the COVID pandemic.
Ribbon Cutting: COVID Memorial at Bob Butterworth Park
Wednesday, July 1st at 10am at 5202 Washington Street
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Celebrate a historic milestone at Hollywood’s annual Independence Day celebration as we honor America's 250th Anniversary with the Star-Spangled Spectacular Celebration at Hollywood Beach Theatre on July 4th, featuring live music, community festivities, and a breathtaking fireworks display
Event Schedule
• 7 p.m. – Official Welcome by Mayor Levy and the City Commission
• 7 p.m. – 9 p.m. – Live music at the Bandshell
• 9 p.m. – Offshore fireworks display
Admission is free. Bring your family, friends, and beach chairs for an unforgettable night celebrating Independence Day on the sand. Entertainment provided by Margaritaville Hollywood Beach Resort!
| | Broward County employs more than 6,500 people across 60+ agencies including Aviation, Finance and Administrative, Human Services, Environmental, Public Works, Enterprise Technology Services, Parks & Recreation, Libraries, Communications, and many more. Career opportunities are posted regularly across a variety of departments. Check out the latest openings and explore the great benefits of joining our team. | | |
Do you have experience in the field of civil engineering? Maybe you have a more artistic background? The City is NOW HIRING for a City Engineer/Division Director, as well as a Part-Time Art Teacher.
Send your resumes to HRResumes@ppines.com.
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Looking to build a rewarding career with the City of Pembroke Pines?
Discover a range of exciting job opportunities with a team that values growth, innovation, and community impact. Whether you’re seeking full-time, part-time, or apprenticeship roles, the City of Pembroke Pines offers a variety of positions with great benefits and the chance to contribute to a thriving community.
Explore our current job openings and take the next step toward a meaningful career in one of South Florida’s most vibrant cities!
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Explore Exciting Career Opportunities with the City of Miramar!
Your journey to make a difference starts here! Join their team and become part of a vibrant community dedicated to excellence and growth. The City of Miramar offers a variety of rewarding opportunities, including full-time positions, part-time roles, and apprenticeships and a comprehensive benefits package.
Discover how you can contribute to this vibrant city—explore our current job openings today and take the first step toward an exciting and impactful career!
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If you’re an experienced communications pro who thrives in a busy office full of creatives and you are looking for your next role in public service, than this is an excellent opportunity for you to consider. The Communications Manager role is ideal for candidates with experience in:
• Team and Project Management
• Strategic Communications
• Media Relations & PR
• Digital & Social Media Strategy
• Marketing, Branding & Advertising
• Economic Development
• Crisis Communications
Join a team dedicated to accuracy, innovation, transparency, and community connections in one of Broward County’s largest and most exciting cities on the move. The application window is open until June 10th.
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Join the City of Hollywood – Where Opportunities are Open to All!
The City of Hollywood is proud to offer Equal Opportunity Employment for all applicants. They encourage a diverse workforce and provide consideration for employment regardless of age, race, gender, disability, or any other non-merit factor. They are committed to fair and equitable hiring practices.
Veterans and individuals with special needs are also encouraged to apply and can receive reasonable accommodations as needed. For more information, including copies of their Equal Opportunity Action Plan and Veterans’ Recruitment Plan, contact the Human Resources Office at 954.921.3216.
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Flashback Friday: Florida's Caribbean Students Association Conference 2014
For this week’s Flashback Friday, I’m looking back at the FCSA Conference 2014 Opening Ceremony, where I had the honor of encouraging Caribbean student leaders to stay active, embrace their culture, and prepare to lead with purpose.
Click below to watch the full video.
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Juneteenth Celebration - Pembroke Pines
The Juneteenth celebrations were in full swing in my Broward Dist 7, my home City and the second most populous city in the county, Pembroke Pines! Though African/Caribbean Americans only make up 20% of the population here, we were well represented as we remembered the struggle and resilience of our shared ancestry!
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Juneteenth Celebration Dinner & Awards Presentation - Miramar
Celebrating Juneteenth throughout Broward County Dist 7 starting with the City of Miramar! An awesome evening of reflection and celebration hosted by Commissioner Yvette Colbourne
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Drive-Thru Food Distribution - Miramar
Thank you to everyone who joined us for our food distribution event last Saturday at Miramar Pineland Park. I was proud to partner with Farmshare, volunteers, and staff to help provide food assistance to more than 500 families. Events like these demonstrate the power of community and the importance of ensuring residents have access to valuable resources. Thank you to everyone who helped make this effort a success and to the families who came out to participate.
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Florida Association of Counties Conference
Always learning and growing to better serve the people of Broward County! Attending the annual Florida Association of Counties conference..
| | Follow Commissioner Alexandra P. Davis | | |
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✅ Be the first to know about upcoming events
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| | "Putting You First, Keeps Us First!" | | | | |
