July 3rd, 2026

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.

This July, I join communities across Broward County and across the nation in recognizing National Disability Pride Month. This month is an opportunity to celebrate the contributions, talents, and achievements of people with disabilities while reaffirming our commitment to building communities where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

Disability Pride Month also reminds us of the importance of accessibility, inclusion, and equal opportunity. By working together to remove barriers and foster understanding, we create stronger, more welcoming communities that value every individual's unique experiences and abilities.



I encourage residents to take this time to learn, reflect, and celebrate the diversity that strengthens Broward County. Together, we can continue building a community where all people are respected, included, and empowered to reach their full potential.

The County is joining together to help communities impacted by the devastating twin earthquakes in Venezuela. Residents and businesses are encouraged to donate new essential supplies, including bottled water, non-perishable food, tarps, tents, flashlights, batteries, sleeping bags, first-aid kits, diapers, personal care items, and other emergency necessities at designated County drop-off locations starting Monday, July 6. Every donation will help provide critical relief to families recovering from this disaster. Only new items will be accepted. Learn More

Broward County

July is Park and Recreation Month

Visit a Broward County Park!

Happy Park and Recreation Month! This July, we join with the National Park and Recreation Association as we celebrate the power of play, nature, community, belonging, and the people who make these experiences possible. Broward County Parks offer a wide variety of activities for all ages, from nature programs and community events to youth camps and fitness classes. Find out more about our unique parks and programs on our Website at Broward.org/Parks. This is Your Park, Your Way!

Your Park, Your Way!

Nature Trails

Rent a Shelter

Adults and Kid's Program

Dog Park

Camping and RV

Bicycling

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. 

SOLD OUT: Broward County Watch Parties

Video Recap Down Below:

The response to this year’s World Cup watch parties has been incredible, and all Broward County watch parties at the Amerant Bank Arena are officially SOLD OUT. 

Didn’t score tickets? You can still catch all the World Cup excitement at watch parties and fan locations throughout Greater Fort Lauderdale. Visit Lauderdale has compiled a list of local spots where you can cheer on your favorite teams. Broward County Transit is also offering special Park & Ride service to select transportation hubs, making it even easier to join the celebration. Explore more soccer-themed events.

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.

Major Sheridan Street Bridge Project to Begin

 This summer, the County’s Highway and Bridge Maintenance Division will begin a $12.7 million project to raise the Sheridan Street Bridge over Florida’s Turnpike in Hollywood (District 7), improving safety and meeting today’s safety standards. The project will increase the bridge’s vertical clearance by two feet, helping reduce the risk of vehicle strikes, while adding new sidewalks, roadway improvements, lighting, drainage, and designated shared lanes for bicyclists. Read More

Sidewalk and ADA Improvements

Beginning July 6, Broward County’s Highway and Bridge Maintenance Division will begin sidewalk repairs and ADA-accessible curb ramp improvements along Douglas Road (Pine Island Road) between Taft Street and Sheridan Street in Pembroke Pines and Cooper City. Construction is expected to continue through December, weather permitting. Traffic will remain open with one lane available in each direction throughout construction, while pedestrians will be safely detoured around active work areas. Read More

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 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.

Film Lauderdale

Call For Entries Is Now Open!

Born from the creative legacy of FLIFF's four+ decades, FLIFFShorts spotlights the visionary storytellers working in short form. The four-day festival will present its innovative and captivating short films from around the world while proudly spotlighting our local film talent. Early Deadline: August 1st, 2026. Festival Dates: November 5th - 8th, 2026. For more information on how to submit your short, click here!

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.

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.

Get Certified as a Broward County Business Enterprise and Access New Opportunities for Government Procurement, Projects, and More!

City of Pembroke Pines

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.  

• 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.
• 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.

 Business Opportunities 

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:

• Bids & Awards: Explore current bids and awarded contracts.
• Building Permits: Access information and applications for permits.
• Local Business Tax Receipt (LBTR): Learn how to obtain your business tax receipt.
• Business Relocation: Discover the benefits of bringing your business to Pembroke Pines.
• Chamber of Commerce: Connect with the Miramar–Pembroke Pines Regional Chamber of Commerce.
• City Charter & Code of Ordinances: Review local regulations and ordinances.
• Demographics: Gain insights from city demographics and census data.
• Film Permits: Apply for film permits and learn filming guidelines.
• Shop Local / Business Directory: Support and explore local businesses in the Pines.

City of Miramar

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:

• 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
• 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.
• 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.

• Business Industry Development (BID) Program – Supports local, small, minority, and women-owned businesses by facilitating contracting and development opportunities.
• Contracting Opportunities – The city maintains bid opportunities, with notifications available through Onvia DemandStar. Preference points are available for local and small business bidders.
• Small Business Signage Program – Provides up to $10,000 in financial assistance for signage improvements.
• Small Business Grant Program – Offers funds to help businesses grow and expand operations.
• Vacant Storefront Cover Program – A no-cost program to install artistic coverings on vacant storefronts to improve commercial corridors.
• Vendor Registration – Businesses can register online to do business with the City of Miramar, with a brochure available to guide the process.
• 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.

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.

City of Hollywood

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.

• 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
• 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
• 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:

• Bids – View active vendor bids and learn how to become a registered city vendor.
• Building Permits – Apply for the permits required to start or expand your business.
• Business Disaster Preparedness – Guidance to help businesses prepare for emergencies.
• Film Permits – Obtain permits to film productions within the City of Hollywood.
• Local Business Tax Receipt – Requirements for obtaining and renewing a business tax receipt to legally operate.
• New Business Listings – Monthly updates on new and transferred businesses in Hollywood.
• 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.

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!

To help residents prepare for hurricane season, the City of Hollywood will begin offering free sand and sandbags available now.

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!

Join us July 11th to Keep Hollywood Beautiful! Our Beach Sweeps happen every second Saturday of the month. Meet at Charnow Park, 300 Connecticut Street from 7:00 a.m. – 11:00. a.m. to make a difference and keep our beaches clean. Parking passes are available.

Broward County

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.

City of Pembroke Pines

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.

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!

City of Miramar

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!

City of Hollywood

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.

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.

Flashback Friday: B&M Shopping Plaza Grand Opening in Historic Miramar

This Flashback Friday, I am looking back at the October 27, 2020 grand opening ribbon cutting for the newly renovated B&M Shopping Plaza in Historic Miramar. Made possible through a $500,000 City Commission-approved grant, this project helped bring renewed investment, pride, and support to the small businesses serving our historic community.

Click below to watch the full video.

Caribbean Heritage Celebration- Pembroke Pines

The Caribbean vibes were in full effect at the Pembroke Pines Caribbean festival! It was an honor to have been given a Proclamation declaring June as Caribbean American Heritage Month and additionally declaring June 27 as Alexandra P. Davis Day in the City of Pembroke Pines. Thank you Mayor Angela Castillo and the Pembroke Pines commission for this remarkable recognition! It was truly a pleasure to celebrate Caribbean American Heritage Month alongside the City of Pembroke Pines!

WorldCup Fanfest - Miramar

Well rocking the England Jersey, I was of course rooting for my home country and they delivered against Panama 2 - 0! Shout out to the Miramar amphitheater for hosting a watch party for this exciting game!

Unique CAHM and Cultural Award Celebration

Grateful to have received the Unique CAHM and Cultural award during the Caribbean American Heritage Month. Congratulations to all other award recipients. Great job by Liz Burns and team in their 12th year of this cultural event!

BayFront FanFest

BayFront FanFest supporting both England & DR Congo!

Get the latest updates on community events, important Broward County news, and initiatives straight from the Office of Broward County District 7 Commissioner Alexandra P. Davis.

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