HALLANDALE BEACH 2020-2026
si x y e a r s t h a t c h a n g e d our future communit y impact report
STRONGER NEIGHBORHOODS INVESTING IN PEOPLE, PLACES & POSSIBILITIES
THRIVING BUSINESSES BUILDING A FOUNDATION FOR SUSTAINABLE GROWTH
ENDLESS OPPORTUNITIES A CITY PREPARED FOR TOMORROW, TODAY
T
he next chapter of Hallandale Beach’s story is still being written. But because of the work accomplished over the past six years, the foundation for that future is stronger than ever before.
Table of
15
21
27
39
45
53
Contents 33
City Commission Address . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 03 City Manager’s Message . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 08 Introduction | Six Years That Changed Our Future . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 1 | From Crisis to Financial Strength . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 2 | Rebuilding the Foundation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 3 | Protecting What Matters Most . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 4 | Moving Hallandale Beach Forward . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 5 | Building a Proud Community . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 6 | The HBCRA’s Legacy of Transformation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 7 | Investing in People . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 Conclusion | Hallandale Beach: A City Prepared for the Future . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59 1
P
roviding oversight and sound fiscal stewardship is my job as your Mayor of Hallandale Beach. Often, we become so focused on the work itself that we overlook the importance of clearly communicating what is happening behind the scenes. That is why I urged our city manager to do more to keep residents informed about our operational accomplishments.
JOY F. COOPER Mayor
(954) 632-5700 jcooper@cohb.org
Through strategic financial planning, we have reduced the tax rate while strengthening the city’s ability to invest in aging infrastructure across every neighborhood. These essential services are easy to take for granted, but delivering them requires careful planning, funding, compliance with rigorous regulations, and time. This comprehensive report highlights the hard work our commission and staff have done over the past several years to address your priorities and prepare our city for a bright future. Traffic, flooding, and curb appeal remain our top priorities, but they are not our only focus. We are committed to improving every aspect of life in Hallandale Beach that affects residents’ quality of life. Above all your safety remains my highest priority.
joint projects that enhance traffic flow are completed. We continue to invest in paving city roads, adding and repairing sidewalks, and pursuing city transit improvements to create a safer, more walkable community. Providing safe drinkable water, wastewater treatment, and stormwater management are the life blood of a city and these services require careful planning. Depending on the scope, improvements can take months or even years to complete. With more than $330 million dollars in projects in the pipeline, we have made significant progress. Increasing water capacity, replacing, and upgrading water lines, new force mains, replacements of every sewer pumping station, and vital stormwater projects are critical for a resilient future. We have an amazing professional staff led by City Manager Dr. Jeremy Earle that has put together this report. This is a report not simply about projects but the stewardship and our commitment to caring for our family of Hallandale Beach.
Addressing traffic requires strong intergovernmental partnerships. As Vice Chair of Broward County Metropolitan Planning Organization, I continue to collaborate with our staff and partner agencies to improve major corridors, including Hallandale Beach Boulevard, Federal Highway, South Ocean Drive, and Dixie Highway. It is critical to ensure 3
T
he story of Hallandale Beach is one of resilience, vision, and transformation.
Over the years, our City faced significant challenges, including aging infrastructure, decades of deferred maintenance, and financial constraints that limited our ability to address critical community needs. Many of the systems and facilities that residents rely upon every day had not received the level of investment necessary to keep pace with a growing and evolving city.
MICHELE LAZAROW Vice Mayor
(305) 607-5683 mlazarow@cohb.org
a city that is prepared for the future. While there is more work ahead, we are proud of the progress achieved and remain focused on building upon this momentum. Together, we are creating a Hallandale Beach that is financially strong, infrastructure-ready, and positioned to thrive for generations to come.
Rather than accept these challenges as our future, we made a commitment to change our course. Through responsible financial management, strategic planning, and a focus on long-term sustainability, Hallandale Beach has strengthened its financial position and created a solid foundation for continued progress. Today, our City is making meaningful investments in infrastructure, public spaces, neighborhoods, and essential services. Roads are being improved, drainage systems are being upgraded, public facilities are being enhanced, and projects that had been deferred for decades are finally moving forward. These improvements are helping to build a stronger, safer, and more resilient community while supporting economic growth and enhancing quality of life for residents and businesses alike. This Impact Report highlights the accomplishments made possible through the collective efforts of our residents, businesses, City staff, and elected officials. It reflects our shared commitment to responsible stewardship and our determination to create
4
H A L L A N D A L E B E A C H : S I X Y E A R S T H AT C H A N G E D O U R F U T U R E
Ingalls Park
A
s I reflect on the past ten years, I am incredibly proud of what we have accomplished together. Through strong leadership, strategic planning, and a commitment to fiscal responsibility, Hallandale Beach has undergone a remarkable transformation.
ANABELLE LIMA-TAUB Commissioner
(954) 457-1317 ataub@cohb.org
When many cities were facing financial uncertainty, Hallandale Beach took decisive action to stabilize its finances, strengthen reserves, and position itself for long-term success. Today, our financial outlook is stronger, allowing us to invest in the services and infrastructure our residents deserve. Top priorities have been addressing decades of deferred maintenance. From roadway resurfacing and sidewalk improvements to stormwater upgrades, pump station enhancements, water and sewer improvements, and citywide beautification efforts, we are making critical investments that will benefit residents for generations to come.
Peter Bluesten Park
One of my proudest accomplishments has been advocating for condominium owners. Through the Hallandale Beach Condominium Transparency Act, our City became a leader in promoting accountability and transparency within condominium associations. This initiative helps protect condo owners by ensuring they have access to important information and can make informed decisions regarding their investments and quality of life.
that improve mobility, resilience, and quality
We have also enhanced public safety, supported local businesses, reduced property tax rates when fiscally possible, and advanced projects
strong foundation. Together, we are transforming
of life throughout our community. None of this progress would have been possible without the dedication of City Manager Dr. Jeremy Earle, our hardworking City staff, Police Chief Michel and his team, my fellow Commissioners, and the residents who continue to believe in the future of Hallandale Beach. While there is still work ahead, we have built a Hallandale Beach into a thriving, resilient, and prosperous city for generations to come. 5
O MIKE BUTLER Commissioner
(954) 457-1412 mbutler@cohb.org
ver the past six years, Hallandale Beach has made meaningful progress in addressing many of the issues residents have consistently identified as their highest priorities.
Residents consistently tell us that traffic,
Traffic has long been one of the most common concerns raised by residents. In response, the City established a dedicated Department of Transportation to focus on mobility, traffic operations, and long-term transportation planning. While much work remains, we are already seeing improvements and a greater focus on solving transportation challenges throughout our community.
dollars are spent wisely and effectively. The
flooding, public safety, and the appearance of our City matter most. I believe our responsibility is to focus our resources on those priorities while ensuring taxpayer progress achieved over the past six years reflects that commitment, and I look forward to continuing the work that remains ahead.
Parking was another frequent source of frustration for residents and businesses. The City’s parking program has proven to be an outstanding success, dramatically reducing complaints and improving the management of parking throughout Hallandale Beach. Perhaps most importantly, the City has undertaken significant investments in infrastructure that had been neglected for decades. While these projects may not always be visible, renewing critical infrastructure such as lift stations, stormwater systems, roads, and utilities is essential to protecting property values, improving reliability, and preparing Hallandale Beach for the future. We have also continued investing in public safety, neighborhood improvements, parks, and beautification efforts that help make Hallandale Beach a better place to live, work, and raise a family.
6
H A L L A N D A L E B E A C H : S I X Y E A R S T H AT C H A N G E D O U R F U T U R E
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Dream Plaza
I
t is my honor to serve the residents of Hallandale Beach and to reflect on the progress our city continues to make.
Hallandale Beach is a vibrant, diverse, and resilient community that combines the advantages of a premier coastal location with a strong commitment to quality of life for all residents.
JOY D. ADAMS Commissioner
(954) 457-1319 jadams@cohb.org
These accomplishments are the result of collaboration among residents, City staff, community partners, and elected officials. Together, we are building a stronger, more connected, and more prosperous Hallandale Beach.
Over the past year, we have achieved significant milestones that strengthen our community and position us for continued success. Investments in infrastructure have improved our roads, drainage systems, and public facilities, enhancing safety and reliability for residents and businesses alike. Our ongoing efforts to modernize City services have increased efficiency, transparency, and accessibility. We have also continued to support economic development by encouraging responsible growth, attracting investment, and fostering opportunities that expand our local tax base while preserving the character of our neighborhoods. Improvements to parks, recreational facilities, and public spaces have created more opportunities for families, seniors, and visitors to enjoy all that Hallandale Beach has to offer.
South City Beach Park
Public safety remains a top priority, and we are grateful for the dedicated professionals who work every day to keep our community safe. Additionally, our sustainability and environmental initiatives demonstrate our commitment to protecting our natural resources for future generations. 7
City Manager’s Message
The Responsibility of Stewardship
DR. JEREMY EARLE, Ph.D., AICP, FRA-RA City Manager / CRA Executive Director (954) 457-1300 jearle@cohb.org
W
hen I was appointed City Manager in August 2020, I could not have predicted the challenges that lay ahead.
The pandemic, economic uncertainty, historic flooding events, infrastructure failures, and financial pressures tested our organization in ways few could have imagined. Yet those challenges also revealed something extraordinary about Hallandale Beach. Time and again, I watched City employees, elected officials, business owners, community partners, and residents come together to solve problems, support one another, and continue moving forward. Over the course of my career, I have learned that leadership is rarely tested when circumstances are easy. Leadership is tested during uncertainty. It is tested when difficult decisions must be made, when resources are limited, when expectations are high, and when the path forward is not always clear.
8
H A L L A N D A L E B E A C H : S I X Y E A R S T H AT C H A N G E D O U R F U T U R E
The past six years presented all of those challenges. Hallandale Beach faced significant financial pressures, aging infrastructure, deferred maintenance, and operational challenges that had accumulated over many years. Residents were experiencing flooding, water main breaks, deteriorating infrastructure, and quality-oflife concerns that could no longer be ignored. At the same time, the City was navigating a global pandemic and confronting financial forecasts that projected significant future deficits if meaningful action was not taken. The easy path would have been to postpone difficult decisions. Instead, this community chose to confront its challenges directly. As you read through this report, you will see the results of that decision. You will see the story of a city that rebuilt its financial foundation, invested hundreds of millions of dollars into
infrastructure, strengthened public safety, improved mobility, enhanced neighborhoods, expanded recreational opportunities, supported local businesses, advanced affordable housing, and invested in the quality of life of its residents. You will see numbers, projects, and accomplishments. But what those pages cannot fully capture are the countless hours of dedication that made those accomplishments possible. They cannot fully capture the Public Works employee responding to a water main break in the middle of the night. The police officer and firefighter responding to emergencies. The budget and finance professional working through budget and other financial challenges. The planner, engineer, code compliance officer, recreation leader, social worker, technician, director, or maintenance worker whose efforts quietly improved this community every day.
Hallandale Beach City Hall
continued showing up every day with
This report tells the story of transformation, but that transformation belongs to many people.
a commitment to public service.
It belongs to the residents who remained engaged and committed to their community.
It is the responsibility to care for something
It belongs to business owners who continued investing in Hallandale Beach.
leave it stronger than you found it.
It belongs to community partners who helped expand services and opportunities.
year, I believe we can say with confidence
It belongs to the City Commission, which made difficult decisions while keeping the long-term interests of the community at the forefront.
it was six years ago. Financially stronger.
And it belongs to the dedicated employees of the City of Hallandale Beach who
Most importantly, it is better positioned to meet
Public service is ultimately about stewardship. that does not belong to you and to As Hallandale Beach approaches its centennial that this community is stronger today than Operationally stronger. More resilient. More
No city is ever finished. The work continues. New challenges will emerge, and future generations will be called upon to guide Hallandale Beach forward. My hope is that this report serves not only as a record of what was accomplished, but also as a reminder of what is possible when a community works together toward a shared vision. Thank you for allowing me the privilege of serving this remarkable community during one of the most transformative periods in its history.
prepared. More connected. More vibrant. the opportunities and challenges of the future. 9
Introduction
Six Years That Changed Our Future
“
In less than six years, Hallandale Beach went from less than $10 million in reserves and very few infrastructure projects to more than $42 million in reserves and $330 million in infrastructure improvements. The city modernized public safety technology, expanded transportation options, strengthened neighborhoods and invested in public spaces throughout the community.
”
11
T
here are moments in the life of every city that define its future. When longstanding challenges must be met head-on with decisive action. For Hallandale Beach, that moment began in 2020.
Stormwater challenges throughout Hallandale Beach have included sewer overflows, slow neighborhood drainage, floodwater on residential streets, and environmental hazards such as leaking diesel fuel and oil contamination in local waterways. These conditions highlight the importance of continued stormwater system improvements, maintenance, and environmental protection efforts.
For decades, residents were experiencing recurring flooding, water main breaks, aging $57–$90 million if no corrective action was infrastructure and quality-of-life concerns that taken. The arrival of the COVID-19 pandemic could no longer be ignored. Roads, sidewalks, added another layer of uncertainty. public facilities and critical utility systems The City responded with a long-term strategy required significant reinvestment. Illegal focused on financial dumping affected stability, infrastructure neighborhoods investment, public • Over $100 million has been invested to and public spaces, safety, economic date, out of a total planned investment and much of the development and of $330 million over 8 years. equipment and quality of life. infrastructure • Water leaks were reduced by residents depended on every day had exceeded its intended service life.
approximately 93 percent.
In less than six years, Hallandale Beach • Water main breaks declined by went from less than $10 approximately 81 percent. million in reserves and • Infrastructure investments have included At the same time, the very few infrastructure roads, drainage systems, utilities, parks, City faced growing projects to more facilities and public safety infrastructure. financial pressures. than $42 million in • Programs supporting housing, economic reserves and $330 Years of deferred development, recreation, human services million in infrastructure maintenance, and neighborhood improvement improvements. The declining reserves continued expanding opportunities city modernized and increasing for residents throughout the City. public safety capital needs had technology, expanded created substantial transportation options, long-term strengthened neighborhoods and investment obligations. Financial forecasts projected future budget shortfalls ranging from approximately in public spaces throughout the community. 12
H A L L A N D A L E B E A C H : S I X Y E A R S T H AT C H A N G E D O U R F U T U R E
The Hallandale Beach Community Redevelopment Agency continued serving as the City’s economic development engine, supporting businesses, expanding housing opportunities, revitalizing commercial corridors and investing in public spaces throughout the community. The City also secured approximately $57.5 million in grant funding to support transportation improvements, infrastructure projects, resiliency initiatives, public safety enhancements, community services and other strategic priorities. These accomplishments were not the result of a single project, department or initiative. They reflect years of coordinated effort by residents, elected officials, City staff, businesses and community partners working toward a common goal. The chapters that follow document those efforts and the projects, programs and investments that helped shape Hallandale Beach between 2020 and 2026. Together, they tell the story of a community that addressed longstanding challenges, invested in its future and established a stronger foundation for the years ahead.
HALLANDALE BEACH
$57.7
$330+ MILLION
SIX YEARS AT A GLANCE
MILLION
B U I L D I N G A S T R O N G E R , S M A RT E R , M O R E S U S TA I N A B L E C O M M U N I T Y
GRANTS SECURED
9
ELECTRIC BUSES
53
INFRASTRUCTURE INVESTMENTS
ACTIVE CAPITAL PROJECTS
2.3+ MILES OF
500
PUBLIC SAFETY CAMERAS
73
LICENSE PLATE READERS
NEW SIDEWALKS INSTALLED
243
486
FIRST-TIME HOMEBUYERS ASSISTED
HOMES PAINTED
NEARLY
2,000
TREES GIVEN AWAY OR PLANTED
WELCOME HOME
93% INVESTING IN INFRASTRUCTURE
81%
REDUCTION IN WATER LEAKS
STRENGTHENING NEIGHBORHOODS
ENHANCING PUBLIC SAFETY
EXPANDING MOBILITY
REDUCTION IN WATER MAIN BREAKS
BUILDING FINANCIAL STABILITY
Chapter 1
From Crisis to Financial Strength
How Hallandale Beach Rebuilt Its Financial Foundation
“
Beginning in 2020, Hallandale Beach implemented a strategy focused on restoring long-term financial health while maintaining essential services and addressing years of deferred investment.
” 15
short-term fixes, the City Commission and Administration launched a comprehensive Financial Stabilization Plan.
• Improve forecasting and long-range planning • Invest strategically in infrastructure
Building a Financial Recovery Plan
and public assets
Beginning in 2020, Hallandale Beach implemented a strategy focused on restoring long-term financial health while maintaining essential services and addressing years of deferred investment.
• Reduce reliance on onetime revenue sources To achieve these goals, the City implemented a series of initiatives that fundamentally strengthened its financial position.
The plan was built around several key objectives:
Y
+20
The challenge extended beyond the annual budget.
+10
Residents experienced the effects through aging infrastructure, increasing maintenance needs and projects that had been delayed for years due to limited funding. Recognizing that long-term stability would require structural change rather than 16
H A L L A N D A L E B E A C H : S I X Y E A R S T H AT C H A N G E D O U R F U T U R E
• The Citywide Parking Management Program
• Create sustainable revenue streams
ears of deferred maintenance, declining reserves, rising operating costs and growing infrastructure needs had placed increasing pressure on the City of Hallandale Beach’s finances. Forecasts projected cumulative General Fund shortfalls ranging from approximately $57–$90 million if corrective action was not taken.
Critical infrastructure investments had been postponed. Vehicle replacement programs had been interrupted. Technology upgrades had been deferred. Water, sewer, stormwater, roadway and facility systems required substantial reinvestment.
These included:
• Eliminate structural deficits • Rebuild reserves • Strengthen financial controls
Deficit year
Surplus year
Running total TURNING POINT FY2019
$0
-10
FY12
FY13
FY14
FY15
FY16
FY17
PRIOR 7 YEARS • FY2012 - FY2018
-$15.4M deficit
FY18
FY19
FY20
FY21
FY22
FY23
FY24
RECENT 7 YEARS • FY2019 - FY2025
+$37.7M surplus
Each bar is a single year’s result – below the line is a deficit, above it is a surplus. The grey line tracks the running total: it sinks to a low -15.4M by FY2018, then climbs all the way to a +$22.3M cumulative surplus by FY2025.
FY25
How We Got Here: 5 Strategies 1 - Corroded and rusted drinking water pipe hardware removed from underground, highlighting the need for continued investment in aging utility infrastructure. | 2 - Paving crews resurfacing a residential roadway as part of the Citywide Roadway Restoration Project. | 3 Paving project completed as part of the Citywide Roadway Resurfacing Project.
1
One-time for one-time Windfalls and grants pay for one-time projects – never for ongoing, year-after-year costs.
2
Reserves & rainy-day funds
3
Everyone pays their share
Money set aside to renew aging assets and weather emergencies without cutting services.
• The Certificate of Use Program • Payment in Lieu of Franchise Fees (PILOF) • Utility-related revenue enhancements
Utilities and other funds reimburse the General Fund for the citywide services they use.
• Fire assessment restructuring • Cost allocation improvements • Operational efficiencies and organizational restructuring • Strategic use of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding during the post-pandemic recovery period Collectively, these efforts generated $30+ million in non-ad valorem revenue, reducing reliance on property taxes while creating sustainable funding sources for future operations.
The Results The impact of these efforts has been substantial. Over the past six years: • Multiple consecutive balanced budgets have been adopted.
• The City eliminated the practice of balancing budgets through reserve depletion. • Long-range financial forecasting became a standard component of the budget process.
4
Diverse revenue streams
5
Planning years ahead
A broader mix of revenue, so the City never leans on any single source.
• Financial reporting timelines improved significantly. • The City issued its Annual Comprehensive Financial Report in March for the first time in sixteen years. • FY2025 concluded with no material weaknesses and no significant deficiencies identified in internal controls.
Long-range forecasts show where we’re heading – so we can steer early, not react late.
17
Most importantly, Hallandale Beach successfully rebuilt its reserves. Today, the City maintains approximately $42 million in reserves, providing financial stability, emergency preparedness and the flexibility to continue investing in community priorities. What was once a major area of concern has become one of the City’s greatest strengths.
Financial Stability Creates Opportunity Financial recovery was never the end goal. It was the foundation that made broader progress possible. With structural deficits addressed and reserves rebuilt, Hallandale Beach was able to begin tackling decades of deferred infrastructure and capital investment.
Key improvements included:
The City restored fleet replacement programs, expanded long-term capital planning efforts and accelerated infrastructure improvements throughout the community. As a result, Hallandale Beach advanced one of the largest capital investment programs in its history, with more than $330 million in utility, water, sewer and stormwater infrastructure planning and improvements.
18
H A L L A N D A L E B E A C H : S I X Y E A R S T H AT C H A N G E D O U R F U T U R E
• Restoration of roadway resurfacing programs • Expansion of public safety technology • Modernization of facilities and technology systems
These investments were made possible because the City first addressed its underlying financial challenges.
Strengthening the Organization The City’s financial progress was also
• Improvements to parks and public spaces
supported by significant improvements
• Major investments in resiliency
within the Finance Department.
and emergency preparedness • Significant economic development and redevelopment initiatives
Over the past six years, the Department modernized internal controls, improved audit performance, accelerated financial
reporting, invested in technology and strengthened organizational capacity.
The transformation did not occur overnight. It required difficult decisions, disciplined execution and a commitment to long-term planning.
Bank reconciliations are now completed within 45 days. Revenue compliance functions were reorganized and strengthened. Grants management, utility billing, collections and financial reporting were integrated into a more coordinated and accountable structure.
The result is a stronger, more resilient Hallandale Beach that is better prepared to meet the needs of future generations.
These improvements may not always be visible to residents, but they are essential to maintaining the financial health of a modern municipal government.
A Foundation for the Future Six years ago, Hallandale Beach faced projected deficits, aging infrastructure, declining reserves and significant uncertainty.
Today, the City has approximately $42 million in reserves, balanced budgets, strong financial controls, clean annual audits, sustainable revenue sources and major infrastructure programs underway.
1 - City Commission members and employees celebrate the inaugural opening of Sunrise Park with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. | 2 - Lifeguard house on Hallandale Beach. | 3 Hallandale Mural by Elio Mercado. | 4 - New shade features installed at the Sunrise Park playground, including shaded play areas and picnic tables for families to enjoy.
19
Chapter 2
Rebuilding the Foundation
Investing in the Infrastructure that Powers Hallandale Beach
“
Over the past six years, Hallandale Beach launched one of the most ambitious infrastructure investment programs in its history. ...the City committed more than $330 million to infrastructure planning, design, construction, rehabilitation and resiliency initiatives.
”
21
I
nfrastructure is easy to overlook when it is working.
Water flows when a faucet is turned on. Roads connect residents to schools, parks and businesses. Stormwater systems move water away from homes and streets. Sidewalks, traffic signals and public facilities support daily life without drawing much attention. By 2020, however, Hallandale Beach faced a growing challenge. Much of the City’s infrastructure was aging faster than it was being replaced. Water mains had exceeded their expected service life. Utility systems required increasing maintenance. Stormwater infrastructure needed significant reinvestment. Lift stations, treatment systems, roads, sidewalks, facilities
and equipment all required attention. In fact, some stormwater pipes were 90% full of silt, causing blockages and exacerbating flooding. Some of Hallandale’s infrastructure was so old that we are still finding pipes made of clay, a material that has not been used in over 70 years. We are steadily replacing these outdated components and will continue until the work is completed. Residents experienced the effects firsthand. Water main breaks disrupted neighborhoods. Flooding occurred during major rain events. Roads and sidewalks required rehabilitation. Aging facilities demanded repairs. Public equipment and vehicles were becoming increasingly costly to maintain. Addressing these challenges required more than isolated repairs. It required a longterm commitment to rebuilding and modernizing the City’s infrastructure. Over the past six years, Hallandale Beach launched one of the most ambitious infrastructure investment programs in its history. Through capital improvement planning, grant funding, utility revenue bonds and long-range asset management strategies, the City committed more than $330 million to infrastructure planning, design, construction, rehabilitation and resiliency initiatives.
22
H A L L A N D A L E B E A C H : S I X Y E A R S T H AT C H A N G E D O U R F U T U R E
1 - Aging underground infrastructure can affect both drainage and drinking water quality. These photos show a rusted pipe spraying water underground, neighborhood flooding caused by clogged drainage and dated stormwater infrastructure, a cracked water main with a missing section, and rust buildup inside drinking water pipes. Together, they highlight the importance of continued investment in water, stormwater and utility improvements. | 2 & 3 - The City purchased vacuum trucks and pumps to help remove standing water from flooded streets and support faster storm response.
From Reactive Repairs to Proactive Investment
Stormwater Pipe BEFORE
One of the most significant changes during this period was not a specific project, but a shift in approach. Historically, many infrastructure investments occurred only after systems failed. Water mains were repaired after breaks occurred. Equipment was replaced after reaching the end of its useful life. Stormwater improvements were often reactive rather than strategic.
AFTER
Hallandale Beach deliberately moved away from that model. In 2022, the City completed a comprehensive infrastructure assessment using Lean Six Sigma methodologies to identify high-risk assets throughout the organization. The assessment found that numerous critical infrastructure components had exceeded their planned useful life, some by more than seventy years. Rather than waiting for failures to occur, the City established a prioritization process based on asset age, condition, risk, service impact and replacement needs. This framework became the foundation for future capital planning and infrastructure investment. The result was a transition from reactive maintenance to proactive infrastructure management.
4 - The Schaffer Canal dredging project increased canal capacity and helped address flooding in the southwest neighborhood. | 5 - Stormwater pipes that were once 90% filled with silt were cleaned and replaced to help reduce flooding throughout the community. Today, the City regularly cleans stormwater pipes to maintain system capacity and improve drainage. | 6 - Layne Blvd. water main project replaced rusted pipes.
23
1 - NE 1st Ave (North Dixie Hwy) streetscape project. | 2 - Paving crews resurfacing a residential roadway as part of the Citywide Roadway Restoration Project. | 3 - New ADA sidewalk improvements help residents with disabilities cross streets safely and confidently.
Investing in Every Neighborhood
of constructing more than 12,000 linear
Infrastructure improvements extended well beyond utilities and drainage systems
citywide—improving connectivity and
Roadways throughout the City entered a multiyear resurfacing and rehabilitation program focused on improving safety, mobility and long-term pavement conditions. Sidewalk expansion and replacement projects improved accessibility and pedestrian connectivity. ADA improvements enhanced mobility for residents of all ages and abilities. Transit infrastructure improvements included bus shelters, digital signage and community shuttle enhancements. Over the past several years, we repaired, replaced, or installed more than 60,000 square feet of new sidewalk—the equivalent 24
H A L L A N D A L E B E A C H : S I X Y E A R S T H AT C H A N G E D O U R F U T U R E
feet, or at least 2.3 miles, of new sidewalk creating safer pathways for residents and visitors throughout redevelopment areas. Together, these improvements are helping create a transportation network that is safer, more accessible and better connected.
Modernizing Public Assets The City’s investment strategy extended beyond underground infrastructure. Public facilities throughout Hallandale Beach underwent extensive upgrades and modernization efforts. Parks, recreation facilities, marinas, public buildings, fire stations, lifeguard
towers, historic structures, elevators, electrical systems, lighting systems and operational facilities all received significant improvements. The City also consolidated facility maintenance operations into a unified structure designed to improve efficiency, enhance service delivery and better protect public assets. More than 1,500 facility work orders were completed in a single year, reflecting a substantial increase in operational capacity and responsiveness. At the same time, the City’s fleet replacement program was restored after years of
underfunding. Hundreds of vehicles and pieces of equipment were replaced, improving reliability, reducing maintenance costs, enhancing safety and supporting the delivery of essential public services.
A Community Built for the Future Today, Hallandale Beach’s infrastructure is no longer defined by deferred maintenance. It is defined by investment, planning and preparation. The work completed over the past six years has strengthened essential systems, improved reliability and positioned the City to better meet future needs. From utilities and stormwater systems to roads, sidewalks, facilities and public assets, these investments are helping create a stronger, safer and more resilient Hallandale Beach for future generations.
4 - Newly completed wastewater lift station, one of 15 lift stations being upgraded to improve capacity and increase the efficiency of wastewater movement. | 5, 6 & 7 - Water treatment improvements at the Hallandale Beach Water Plant Facility, including new reverse osmosis skid equipment, upgraded water pipes, and storage tanks that help improve water purification, support treated water storage, and help meet spikes in community water use.
Chapter 3
Protecting What Matters Most
Building One of South Florida’s Most Advanced Public Safety Systems
“
Over the past six years, millions of dollars have been invested in police technology, emergency communications, officer safety, emergency preparedness, facilities, vehicles, equipment and training.
”
27
P
ublic safety has remained one of Hallandale Beach’s highest priorities throughout the past six years.
Over the past six years, millions of dollars
Like many communities across
safety, emergency preparedness, facilities,
have been invested in police technology, emergency communications, officer
the country, the City entered 2020 facing
vehicles, equipment and training. These
uncertainty created by the COVID-19 pandemic.
investments have helped create one
At the same time, Hallandale Beach was addressing significant financial challenges,
of the most technologically advanced and operationally prepared public
deferred infrastructure needs, aging equipment,
safety environments in South Florida.
increasing service demands, evolving threats
The results can be measured not only
and growing expectations from residents.
in equipment and facilities, but in
Rather than delay investment, the City
reduced crime, improved emergency
committed to modernizing and strengthening public safety while rebuilding its financial
preparedness, stronger community relationships and safer neighborhoods.
foundation and infrastructure systems.
1 - New fire truck replacing an aging fleet vehicle and strengthening emergency response capabilities. | 2 - Police outreach helmet fitting and giveaway promoting active transportation safety for students in the community. | 3 - High-water police vehicle supporting emergency response during flooding events. | 4 - Hallandale Beach Commissioners and police officers come together during a holiday community event at Peter Bluesten Park. | 5 - Beach patrol vehicles enhancing safety and mobility along the shoreline. | 6 - New Crime Scene Investigation vehicle supporting police operations and investigative response.
28
H A L L A N D A L E B E A C H : S I X Y E A R S T H AT C H A N G E D O U R F U T U R E
Modernizing the Police Department Six years ago, many of the Hallandale Beach Police Department’s vehicles, communications systems and technology platforms had reached the end of their useful life. Through a comprehensive modernization effort, the City: • Replaced more than 60 police vehicles
officers had access to the tools needed to effectively serve the community. The Department also implemented organizational improvements designed to strengthen accountability, communication and operational effectiveness. Command structures were streamlined, supervisory capacity was expanded and specialized units were created to better address evolving community needs. Key technology investments included:
• Upgraded communications systems • Modernized body-worn camera technology
• Approximately 500 public safety cameras to enhance monitoring and investigations.
• Modernized tasers, patrol rifles and ballistic protection equipment
• 73 License Plate Reader (LPR) cameras to assist with suspect identification and vehicle tracking.
• Upgraded computers and investigative technology
• ShotSpotter gunshot detection technology to improve response to firearm-related incidents.
These investments improved reliability, enhanced officer safety and ensured
• Expanded crime analysis capabilities to better identify trends and deploy resources. • Enhanced intelligence operations to support proactive policing efforts.
Investing in Technology to Prevent Crime One of the most significant public safety investments during this period involved the deployment of advanced technology systems designed to prevent crime and improve response capabilities.
• A partnership with the Broward Sheriff’s Office Real-Time Crime Center to provide officers with real-time intelligence and investigative support. These investments have improved suspect identification, evidence collection, crime analysis and officer deployment while helping law enforcement respond faster and more effectively to emerging incidents. 29
• Modified existing vehicles to operate during flood conditions. • Expanded emergency planning and preparedness efforts across the organization. • Provided emergency management-related training to more than 150 employees. These investments have strengthened the City’s ability to maintain operations, protect residents and respond effectively during emergencies.
Strengthening Emergency Preparedness Public safety extends beyond traditional law enforcement. As a coastal community, Hallandale Beach must also prepare for hurricanes, flooding, severe weather events and other emergencies that threaten residents and businesses. Among the City’s efforts to become fully prepared for emergencies, it: • Established an Emergency Management Unit. • Added five high-water rescue vehicles to the City’s fleet. 30
1 - Community Service Aide vehicles supporting the department’s newly established unit and enhancing service to the community. | 2 - Fire Rescue beach patrol vehicle supporting emergency response. | 3 - New Fire Rescue vehicle strengthening emergency response capabilities citywide. | 4 - Fire Rescue command vehicle supporting incident coordination and emergency operations.
H A L L A N D A L E B E A C H : S I X Y E A R S T H AT C H A N G E D O U R F U T U R E
Supporting Fire Rescue Excellence The City’s commitment to public safety also extends to fire rescue services. Through its partnership with the Broward Sheriff’s Office Fire Rescue Division, Hallandale Beach has continued investing in equipment, facilities, fleet replacement and emergency response capabilities.
• Expanded officer safety equipment
A Safer, Stronger Community
• Enhanced trauma kits, tourniquets and Narcan capabilities
safety have produced measurable
• Part I crimes declined by 13 percent.
• Modernized employee wellness facilities
percent, representing approximately
• Improved departmental facilities
Rescue organization that maintains an ISO Class 1 rating, the highest classification
results. Between 2020 and 2026:
• Expanded active assailant training programs
• Upgraded evidence storage systems
Today, residents benefit from a Fire
The City’s investments in public
These investments strengthened operational readiness while supporting the men and women responsible for protecting the community.
awarded by the Insurance Services Office and a distinction achieved by only a
• Gunshot incidents decreased by 56 142 fewer incidents annually. • According to an independent management study, for an agency of our size, our police response times are the fastest in the country. • Vehicle crashes declined by approximately 7 percent, resulting in 115 fewer crashes per year.
The Hallandale Beach Police Department
small percentage of fire departments
achieved Excelsior Accreditation, the highest
nationwide. This rating reflects excellence in
level of recognition for professional excellence,
emergency response, training, equipment, communications and operational readiness.
accountability and operational effectiveness.
Investing in People
These results demonstrate the value of sustained
Technology and equipment are important,
training and community engagement.
investment in technology, personnel, facilities,
but people remain at the center of
Today, Hallandale Beach is better equipped
every public safety organization.
to prevent crime, respond to emergencies
Throughout the past six years, Hallandale Beach
and meet the evolving public safety needs
invested heavily in training, wellness, leadership
of residents, businesses and visitors. The
development, professional standards and employee support. Among these efforts: • Developed new tactical training facilities
City enters its next chapter with stronger 5 - New officer safety equipment, including body camera technology, supporting transparency, accountability, and public safety. | 6 - Police community outreach strengthening neighborhood connections and building trust.
capabilities, modern systems and a public safety infrastructure designed to serve the community for years to come. 31
Chapter 4
Moving Hallandale Beach Forward
Improving Mobility, Connectivity & Transportation
“
Over the past six years, Hallandale Beach has developed long-term plans designed to improve mobility, connectivity and quality of life for residents.
”
33
A
sk residents what challenge they would most like to see addressed and one answer consistently rises to the top: traffic.
For Hallandale Beach, transportation presents a unique challenge. Major regional corridors including Hallandale Beach Boulevard, US-1, A1A, I-95 and the Florida East Coast Railway all influence how people move throughout the community. Regional growth, tourism, commuter traffic and development occurring beyond City limits all contribute to congestion.
Over the past six years, Hallandale Beach has developed long-term plans designed to improve mobility, connectivity and quality of life for residents. In addition to significant investments in transportation and mobility, the City:
While the City cannot control every vehicle entering its boundaries, it can improve how people move throughout the community.
• Established a Department of Transportation and Mobility • Modernized public transit services • Improved traffic operations throughout the City • Expanded pedestrian infrastructure • Advanced Complete Streets projects The goal has been straightforward: make it safer, easier and more efficient for people to move throughout Hallandale Beach.
A Transportation Department for the Future Historically, transportation responsibilities were distributed among multiple departments and agencies. To provide greater focus and expertise, Hallandale Beach established a dedicated Department of Transportation and Mobility focused on transportation planning, traffic engineering, transit operations, multimodal connectivity, grant funding and long-range mobility planning. This investment created a level of coordination and strategic planning that had not previously existed within the organization.
1 - New road bollards supporting a revised traffic pattern designed to enhance roadway safety. | 2 - Enhanced bus shelters installed throughout the city, providing additional shade and comfort for riders. | 3 - Residents attending a Transportation Master Plan meeting to help shape the future of mobility in Hallandale Beach. 34
H A L L A N D A L E B E A C H : S I X Y E A R S T H AT C H A N G E D O U R F U T U R E
Making Traffic Flow Better While no city can eliminate traffic entirely, Hallandale Beach has focused on improving how traffic moves throughout the community. Working in partnership with Broward County and the Florida Department of Transportation, the City completed major traffic signal retiming efforts along Hallandale Beach Boulevard and US-1. Signal timing adjustments at fifteen intersections between I-95 and Three Islands Boulevard helped reduce delays and improve travel conditions along some of the City’s busiest corridors.
KEY ACCOMPLISHMENTS INCLUDE: • Completed signal retiming at 15 intersections between I-95 and Three Islands Boulevard. • Reduced travel times by up to eight minutes on key corridors during certain periods. • Installed additional “Do Not Block Intersection” signage along Hallandale Beach Boulevard. • Expanded traffic calming initiatives and school zone safety improvements. • Implemented a citywide 25-mile-perhour residential speed limit initiative. • Transforming Public Transit
4 - Traffic flow along the City’s main corridors has significantly improved through signal optimization, helping reduce wait times at traffic lights and ease congestion during peak hours.
1 - One of nine Cloud electric buses, equipped with expanded features and additional seating to provide a more comfortable rider experience. | 2 - Cloud operators help keep the community moving seven days a week, providing exceptional service to riders. | 3 - Inaugural day of the City’s new Cloud bus, marking a milestone in expanded, fare-free electric transit.
One of the most visible transportation accomplishments during this period was the expansion of the City’s Cloud Community Shuttle system. With this undertaking, the City: • Expanded Cloud to a fleet of nine allelectric buses operating on four routes. • Recorded nearly 100,000 passenger trips during the first five months of 2026. • Introduced real-time tracking and service enhancements to improve rider experience. • Earned national recognition through the 2026 Mayors’ Climate Protection Awards.
Today, Hallandale Beach is recognized as a leader in sustainable municipal transportation and one of the first cities in Florida to deploy a fully electric community shuttle fleet at this scale.
• Developed an Emergency Battery Charging and Continuity Plan to support operations during emergencies. 36
H A L L A N D A L E B E A C H : S I X Y E A R S T H AT C H A N G E D O U R F U T U R E
Building Complete Streets & Planning for the Future Hallandale Beach advanced multiple Complete Streets projects designed to improve safety, connectivity, accessibility and economic development. Through these efforts, the City: • Advanced the NW 3rd Street Complete Street Project • Advanced the NW/SW 8th Avenue Complete Street Project • Added sidewalks, bicycle facilities, enhanced crossings, landscaping and traffic calming features. • Developed a Transportation Master Plan focused on six priority corridors.
• Secured and pursued more than $11 million in transportationrelated funding opportunities. These investments will help guide future transportation improvements while accelerating projects that enhance safety, mobility and connectivity throughout the City.
A More Connected Community Traffic will always be a challenge in a growing metropolitan region, and no city can eliminate congestion entirely. Over the past six years, Hallandale Beach has modernized transit, improved traffic operations, expanded
pedestrian infrastructure, advanced Complete Streets projects and developed a long-term transportation strategy focused on the future. The result is a transportation system that is safer, more connected and more resilient than it was six years ago. Residents today have more transportation choices, improved pedestrian infrastructure, enhanced transit service and a clearer vision for how people will move throughout Hallandale Beach in the years ahead.
4 - ADA-compliant sidewalks have been installed to improve accessibility and safety for all pedestrians. | 5 - New Complete Streets bike lanes provide a protected path for cyclists, reducing conflicts with vehicles and improving overall safety for bikers, pedestrians, and drivers alike. | 6 - Micromobility vehicles providing residents with free, convenient transportation options throughout the city. 37
Chapter 5
Building a Proud Community
Beautification, Neighborhood Preservation and Quality of Life
“
Over the past six years, Hallandale Beach has made a deliberate investment in beautification, neighborhood preservation, code compliance and public spaces. The result is a cleaner, more attractive and better-maintained
”
community for residents and visitors alike.
39
A
clean street.
Taking on Illegal Dumping
A well-maintained median.
Few issues generated more resident complaints than illegal dumping.
A neighborhood free from illegal dumping.
A vibrant public space. These may seem like small details individually, but together they shape how residents experience their community every day. Over the past six years, Hallandale Beach has made a deliberate investment in beautification, neighborhood preservation, code compliance and public spaces. The result is a cleaner, more attractive and better-maintained community for residents and visitors alike.
For years, mattresses, furniture, construction debris, tires, bulk waste and other materials were routinely discarded throughout neighborhoods, vacant lots, rights-of-way and public spaces. These conditions negatively impacted neighborhood appearance, property values, public perception and quality of life. Recognizing the need for a more aggressive response, Hallandale Beach fundamentally changed its approach. Rather than treating illegal dumping as one of many code enforcement responsibilities, the City created dedicated sanitation enforcement positions focused specifically on addressing dumping, debris and neighborhood cleanliness concerns. The results were immediate. Since the addition of dedicated sanitation code compliance personnel in late 2022: • More than 5,900 sanitation-related cases have been addressed.
Resident complaints related to illegal
• Nearly 5,000 cases have been successfully resolved.
enforcement, education, cleanup efforts
• Annual closure rates have exceeded 80 percent. • Closure rates exceeded 90 percent during 2024. • More than 400 sanitationrelated cleanup work orders were coordinated with Public Works. 40
H A L L A N D A L E B E A C H : S I X Y E A R S T H AT C H A N G E D O U R F U T U R E
1 - Case Maclaim mural visible driving west on Hallandale Beach Blvd. | 2 - The City gave away and planted more than 2,000 trees, expanding the urban canopy and supporting a healthier, more resilient community. | 3 - The Foster Road Bioswale improves stormwater management.
dumping have declined significantly as and neighborhood engagement programs expanded throughout the City.
A New Approach to Neighborhood Preservation The City’s beautification efforts were not limited to enforcement. Hallandale Beach adopted a more proactive
communication channels allowed neighborhood concerns to be reported and addressed more efficiently than ever before. Together, these efforts helped strengthen partnerships between residents and City staff while creating a more responsive approach to neighborhood maintenance and preservation.
Investing in Beautification Throughout the City, beautification efforts have transformed public spaces, medians, corridors, parks and open spaces.
improving environmental conditions and reducing urban heat impacts. The City also expanded maintenance responsibilities to include open spaces, medians, Community Redevelopment Agency properties and additional public areas throughout Hallandale Beach. Strategic outsourcing and operational improvements generated approximately $380,000 in annual savings while maintaining high-quality landscape services throughout the community.
Major beautification investments included: • Landscaping improvements throughout the City • Median enhancements and irrigation upgrades and collaborative approach to neighborhood preservation through the creation of the Neighborhood Enhancement Program. The program was designed to educate residents, encourage voluntary compliance and improve communication regarding common property maintenance issues. Rather than relying solely on enforcement, the program emphasizes outreach, education, door-to-door engagement and helping residents understand how small improvements can collectively strengthen entire neighborhoods. Technology also played an important role. Improved reporting tools, mobile applications, online services and enhanced
• Tree planting initiatives • Streetscape projects and bioswales • Public art installations • Neighborhood beautification programs • Expanded maintenance of medians, open spaces and public areas Many of these improvements serve multiple purposes. Bioswales and green infrastructure improve stormwater management. Tree planting initiatives enhance neighborhood appearance while increasing shade, 41
1 - New K9 turf installed at Peter Bluesten Park, creating an improved space for sports. | 2 - New decorative shade pergola installed at Sunrise Park. | 3 Peter Bluesten Park aerial view. | 4 - B.F. James Pool, recently certified as a sensory-inclusive facility, expanding access and comfort for all visitors.
Revitalizing Public Spaces Beautification is ultimately about creating places where people want to spend time. Over the past six years, Hallandale Beach invested heavily in parks, recreational facilities, beaches, open spaces and public gathering areas. More than one million visitors and residents now enjoy Hallandale Beach parks annually. Major park improvements included:
safety through the Park Ranger Program and
• Historic Village improvements
expanded partnerships that provide services
The City also introduced new amenities
and activities to residents at little or no cost.
and operational improvements, including
These investments have transformed
enhanced beach services, expanded
public spaces into community assets
• Peter Bluesten Park
recreational programming, upgraded athletic
that support recreation, health, wellness,
• Sunrise Park
facilities, K9 turf installations, improved park
social connection and civic pride.
• Ingalls Park
42
• Golden Isles Park and Tennis Center
H A L L A N D A L E B E A C H : S I X Y E A R S T H AT C H A N G E D O U R F U T U R E
Creating a Culture of Care One of the most significant changes over the past six years cannot be measured solely through statistics. Residents notice when medians are maintained. They notice when illegal dumping disappears. They notice when landscaping improves. They notice when parks are upgraded. They notice when public spaces feel safer, cleaner and more welcoming. The collective impact of hundreds of improvements throughout
5 - Coastal Cleanup at South City Beach Park. | 6 - Parks employees turning the infield mix on the baseball field at Peter Bluesten Park. | 7 - COHB employee maintaining the landscape at OB Johnson Park. | 8 - Hallandale Beach lifeguard station. | 9 - Historic photos honoring African-American community trailblazers at Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Park.
neighborhoods, corridors, parks, beaches, medians and public spaces has helped create a stronger sense of pride throughout Hallandale Beach.
A More Beautiful Hallandale Beach Over the past six years, Hallandale Beach invested in cleaner neighborhoods, stronger code compliance, improved public spaces, enhanced landscaping and expanded beautification efforts throughout the community. These investments have improved how residents experience their neighborhoods while strengthening community pride, property values and quality of life. The result is a Hallandale Beach that is cleaner, better maintained and more welcoming than it was six years ago.
Chapter 6
The HBCRA’s Legacy of Transformation “
Created in 1996, the HBCRA was tasked with addressing blight, stimulating investment, expanding housing opportunities and improving quality of life in areas facing significant decline. At the time, large portions of Hallandale Beach faced challenges that limited investment, hindered redevelopment and constrained economic opportunity.
”
45
community’s potential. Over the next thirty years, that vision produced measurable results throughout Hallandale Beach.
An Engine for Progress
S
ome investments build infrastructure. Some improve services. Others change the trajectory of an entire community.
For nearly three decades, the Hallandale Beach Community Redevelopment Agency (HBCRA) has been a driving force behind the City’s growth and revitalization. As the HBCRA approaches its sunset in 2027 after thirty years of service, it is impossible to tell the story of Hallandale Beach’s evolution without recognizing the role the Agency has played in shaping the community residents know today. Created in 1996, the HBCRA was tasked with addressing blight, stimulating investment, expanding housing opportunities and improving quality of life in areas facing significant decline. At the time, large portions of Hallandale Beach faced challenges that limited investment, hindered redevelopment and constrained economic opportunity. The goal was simple but ambitious: reverse decades of disinvestment and unlock the
46
H A L L A N D A L E B E A C H : S I X Y E A R S T H AT C H A N G E D O U R F U T U R E
Since its creation, the HBCRA has generated more than $259 million in Tax Increment Financing revenue and invested approximately $237 million into redevelopment, housing, economic development, infrastructure, public safety, community programs and neighborhood revitalization initiatives. What began with a taxable value of approximately $378 million within the redevelopment area has grown to nearly $2.4 billion, representing an increase of more than 535 percent over the life of the Agency. However, those numbers tell only part of the story. The true impact can be seen in the neighborhoods, businesses, public spaces, housing developments, streetscapes, parks and community assets that have benefited from the Agency’s investments over the past three decades.
1 - The Oasis is a major mixed-use development rising in Hallandale Beach, reflecting the city’s continued growth and creating new opportunities for businesses, residents and visitors. | 2 - New permeable parking lot in District 8 designed with porous material so that rainwater can infiltrate the surface and into the ground. | Opposite - Atlantic Village is a recently developed retail destination, incentivized by the CRA, that has brought a variety of new business opportunities to the City.
47
The Agency also partnered with developers to create affordable and workforce housing
Investing in Housing & Neighborhoods Perhaps no issue has been more important to the community than housing. Over the years, the HBCRA has invested more than $37 million in housing, making it one of the most significant affordable housing and neighborhood revitalization organizations in Hallandale Beach history. Through homeownership assistance, neighborhood improvements, housing stabilization efforts and affordable housing development, the Agency has helped hundreds of residents improve their homes, become homeowners, stabilize housing costs and remain in the community. The First-Time Homebuyer Program alone has helped 243 families become homeowners, providing more than $10.6 million in down payment assistance. The Neighborhood Improvement Program invested approximately $18.5 million to improve residential properties and eliminate blighting conditions. Nearly 500 homes were beautified through the Paint the Town initiative, helping strengthen neighborhoods one home at a time. 48
through projects such as Hallandale Commons, Solaris Apartments, City Center, Highland Park Village, Carver Heights and numerous infill developments. Together, these efforts have helped families, seniors and workforce residents remain part of the Hallandale Beach community.
1 - Recipients of the First-Time Homebuyer Program receive down payment assistance to help make homeownership more attainable. Within the CRA boundaries, the program provides up to $100,000 in down payment assistance. | 2 - Hallandale Commons includes three buildings with a total of 10 townhouse units located on Foster Road. | 3 - Solaris is a mixed income, 78 unit, 8 story, Green multi-family residential building adjacent to Peter Bluesten Park.
H A L L A N D A L E B E A C H : S I X Y E A R S T H AT C H A N G E D O U R F U T U R E
Transforming the Public Realm While economic development and housing often receive the most attention, HBCRA investments in public infrastructure and beautification have changed how Hallandale Beach looks and feels. Over the past six years, the Agency invested millions of dollars in sidewalks, streetscapes, lighting, landscaping, tree planting, bioswales, public art, traffic calming, parking improvements and public spaces. More than 2000 trees have been planted or given away to residents. Streetscape improvements enhanced major corridors such as Foster
Road while future improvements continue advancing in District 8 and throughout the community. The Agency also invested heavily in arts and culture. Murals now animate buildings throughout the City. Public art installations, painted hydrants, cultural programming and partnerships such as the South Beach Wine & Food Festival have helped define Hallandale Beach while attracting visitors, supporting businesses and building community pride.
Driving Economic Development Over the past six years, the HBCRA has served as the economic development arm of Hallandale Beach, leading efforts to attract, retain and expand businesses throughout the community. Through commercial incentives, grants, partnerships and redevelopment agreements, the Agency has helped activate underutilized properties, support entrepreneurs and stimulate private investment along key commercial corridors.
4 - Thousands of trees have been planted throughout the community, expanding the City’s tree canopy and helping keep Hallandale Beach cooler. | 5 - Los Verdes received commercial incentive grants, reflecting the HBCRA’s commitment to transforming the landscape of the Redevelopment Area.
More than $12 million in commercial grant funding has been invested through façade improvement programs, interior renovation grants, commercial kitchen grants, tenant lease subsidies, business assistance programs, signage improvements, emergency stabilization grants 49
Responding When the Community Needed It Most The HBCRA’s value became especially evident during the COVID-19 pandemic. As businesses faced unprecedented uncertainty, the Agency moved quickly to protect the local economy.
1 & 2 - KAO Bar & Grill is situated in the flourishing District 8 and spans 5,000 square feet. The shipping container restaurant features a distinctive design curated by artist Falopapas (top right).
50
and other economic development initiatives.
enterprises, public art and new investment.
These investments have helped create jobs,
Through strategic partnerships and targeted
strengthen businesses, increase property
redevelopment efforts, the HBCRA helped
values and diversify the City’s economy.
establish District 8 as one of Hallandale
District 8 is one of the clearest examples
Beach’s most recognizable destinations.
of this success.
Similar investments throughout the City have
What was once an underutilized corridor has
helped reduce barriers to business growth,
evolved into a destination featuring restaurants,
strengthen commercial corridors and create
artisan businesses, retail spaces, creative
places residents and visitors enjoy every day.
H A L L A N D A L E B E A C H : S I X Y E A R S T H AT C H A N G E D O U R F U T U R E
Recognizing the potential for widespread closures, job losses and increased blight, the HBCRA allocated $500,000 in emergency business recovery funding through forgivable and partially forgivable loan programs designed to help businesses remain open, retain employees and navigate one of the most challenging economic periods in modern history. Of the seventy applications received, twentyfour businesses were funded, and the majority ultimately received full loan forgiveness. At the same time, the Agency provided direct assistance to residents through housing and utility support programs, helping families remain stable during a period of extraordinary uncertainty. The HBCRA did more than respond to a crisis—it helped businesses stay open, workers remain employed and commercial corridors remain active during one of the most challenging periods in recent history.
Creating Places That Matter
in a way that reflects the long-term vision
Few projects better represent the HBCRA’s legacy than Hallandale City Center.
of both the community and the Agency.
For decades, residents envisioned a development that would create new opportunities for investment, housing, public space and economic activity within the northwest quadrant.
when vision, planning, partnership
Today, that vision is a reality. The Hallandale City Center project represents one of the most significant redevelopment initiatives in the City’s history, combining affordable and market rate housing, commercial space, public parking and economic opportunity
It is evidence of what can happen and investment come together.
A Legacy That Will Endure As the HBCRA approaches the conclusion of its thirty-year lifespan, its impact can be seen throughout every corner of Hallandale Beach. • Stronger neighborhoods • Thriving businesses • Improved housing opportunities • Revitalized corridors • Safer streets • Expanded tree canopy • Public art • Economic growth. And in the countless residents, entrepreneurs, homeowners and families whose lives have been positively affected by its programs and investments. The City of Hallandale Beach entering its centennial year is dramatically different from the community that existed when the HBCRA was created in 1996. That progress did not happen by accident. For thirty years, the HBCRA helped bring these possibilities to life.
3 & 4 - Hallandale City Center project combines housing, commercial space, public parking and economic opportunity in a way that reflects the long-term vision of both the community and the Agency. 51
Chapter 7
Investing in People
Strengthening Community, Health, Recreation & Quality of Life
“
Over the past six years, Hallandale Beach has made a significant investment in programs, partnerships and services designed to improve
”
quality of life for residents of all ages.
53
S
trong communities are built through more than infrastructure and public services. They are built through opportunities
for children, support for families, services for seniors, access to health and wellness resources,
Supporting Youth & Families Hallandale Beach continues to invest in programs that support youth development, academic success, recreation, mentorship and personal growth.
investment in programs,
Through after-school programs, summer camps, tutoring initiatives, youth sports, Police Athletic League programs and recreational opportunities, hundreds of children and families benefit from City services each year.
partnerships and services designed to improve
Key initiatives include:
and programs that bring people together. Over the past six years, Hallandale Beach has made a significant
quality of life for residents of all ages.
• Hepburn Center After School Program • Summer camp programs • Tutoring and homework assistance • Youth sports and recreation programs • Police Athletic League activities • Partnerships with organizations such as the Sloane Stephens Foundation, Miami-Dade County Fit2Play Program, Water Smart, Swim Central and other community partners
1 - Employees volunteer at a recent food distribution event that provided 250 families with fresh produce and essential goods. | 2 - The 2026 VPK Graduation ceremony at the Hepburn Center celebrated the achievements of the City’s youngest learners. | 3 - Upgraded park equipment at Ingalls Park brings new play opportunities to the community. | 4 - Swim Central community partners provide lessons at B.F. James Pool as part of an ongoing effort to promote water safety in the community. 54
H A L L A N D A L E B E A C H : S I X Y E A R S T H AT C H A N G E D O U R F U T U R E
These programs help build confidence, strengthen academic performance, promote healthy lifestyles and create pathways toward future success.
Serving Older Adults Hallandale Beach is home to a large and growing population of older adults. Through the Hepburn Center Senior Mini Center and Human Services programs, older adults receive access to: • Social activities • Community programming • Case management services • Food assistance • Healthcare referrals • Transportation resources • Utility assistance • Housing support • Employment assistance Partnerships with organizations such as the Area Agency on Aging and healthcare providers have expanded available services while bringing additional resources directly into the community. These programs help seniors remain active, independent and connected.
5 - Residents take part in Water Fitness classes offered twice a week in the mornings at B.F. James Park and Municipal Swimming Pool. | 6 Guests learn to salsa at Beach & Groove, the City’s free monthly outdoor concert series at South City Beach Park.
Improving Health & Wellness
Partnerships with Memorial Healthcare System,
Over the past six years, Hallandale Beach expanded partnerships with healthcare providers, nonprofit organizations and government agencies to improve access to health and wellness services.
Broward County Health Department, the
neighborhoods throughout the City.
Residents have benefited from:
The City also continued investing in
University of Miami and other organizations have brought valuable services directly into
• Mobile health clinics
recreational facilities, fitness programs,
• Vaccination events
walking paths, swimming lessons and
• Cancer screenings
athletic programs designed to support
• HIV testing services
healthy lifestyles and overall well-being.
• Wellness programs • Fitness opportunities • Preventive healthcare initiatives
55
Addressing Food Insecurity
Enhancing Parks & Recreation
Access to nutritious food remains one of the
Parks and recreation play a vital role in community life. Today, more than one million visits occur annually across Hallandale Beach’s park system.
most fundamental community needs. Through partnerships with federal, state, county,
Over the past six years, major improvements were completed at:
nonprofit and community organizations, Hallandale Beach strengthened
• Ingalls Park
efforts to support residents
• Sunrise Park
facing food insecurity.
• Peter Bluesten Park
Programs and
• Golden Isles Park and Tennis Center
services include:
• Historic Village
• Monthly food
Additional investments included enhanced beach services, expanded recreational programming, upgraded athletic facilities, K9 turf installations, improved park safety through the Park Ranger Program and expanded partnerships that provide services and activities at little or no cost to residents.
distribution events • Emergency food assistance programs • Project Lifeline • TEFAP food assistance • Community food distribution partnerships These efforts became especially important during and after the COVID-19 pandemic, helping residents and families navigate periods of financial uncertainty. 3
These improvements have expanded access to recreation while supporting health, wellness and community engagement.
1 - Employees volunteer at a recent food distribution event. | 2 - Employees help prepare and serve food to seniors at the annual Community Thanksgiving event, creating an opportunity to connect with residents. | 3 - Guests at Eggstravaganza at Peter Bluesten Park. | 4 – Kids enjoying the playground at Ingalls Park. 56
H A L L A N D A L E B E A C H : S I X Y E A R S T H AT C H A N G E D O U R F U T U R E
Building Community One of Hallandale Beach’s greatest strengths is its people. Community events, cultural celebrations, youth programs, health initiatives, recreational activities, senior services and neighborhood gatherings all contribute to the social fabric of the City. Over the past six years, Hallandale Beach has continued creating opportunities for residents to connect with one another and with their community. From Back-to-School events and holiday celebrations to cancer awareness walks, cultural programs and neighborhood engagement initiatives, these efforts help strengthen relationships, celebrate diversity and foster community pride.
5 - Community members and local organizations place flags on soldiers’ grave sites during the Memorial Day Tribute at Hallandale Beach Cemetery. | 6 - Honorees of the Hepburn Center at a Commission Meeting. | 7 Employee volunteers take a snack break during a community tree giveaway event.
A Community That Invests in People The story of Hallandale Beach’s progress is often told through infrastructure projects, public safety investments and economic development initiatives. Those accomplishments matter. But they are only part of the story. Over the past six years, Hallandale Beach has invested in children, families, seniors, health, recreation, food security and community connection. These investments have strengthened the social fabric of the community and helped improve quality of life for residents at every stage of life. Because at its heart, Hallandale Beach has never been solely about buildings, budgets or infrastructure. It has always been about people.
57
Conclusion
Hallandale Beach: A City Prepared for the Future
“
Over the past six years, the City responded with a long-term strategy focused on financial stability, infrastructure investment, public safety, mobility,
”
economic development and quality of life.
59
S
ix years ago, Hallandale Beach faced significant challenges. Financial forecasts projected substantial future deficits. Infrastructure systems required reinvestment. Public assets had exceeded their intended life cycles. Water main breaks, flooding concerns and neighborhood quality-of-life issues demanded attention.
Over the past six years, the City responded with a long-term strategy focused on financial stability, infrastructure investment, public safety, mobility, economic development and quality of life. The results are measurable: 4 Approximately $42 million in reserves restored 4 Projected future deficits eliminated 4 Six consecutive balanced budgets adopted 4 More than $330 million in infrastructure projects planned, designed or advanced 4 Water leaks reduced by approximately 93 percent 4 Water main breaks reduced by approximately 81 percent 4 More than $30 million in non-ad valorem revenue strategies implemented 4 Hundreds of vehicles and pieces of equipment replaced 4 Major investments made in public safety technology, emergency preparedness and facilities 4 Transportation systems modernized and expanded 4 Neighborhood preservation and beautification efforts strengthened 4 Economic development and housing initiatives advanced 4 Community programs and human services expanded 4 Approximately $57.5 million in grant funding secured
These accomplishments reflect the efforts of elected officials, City employees, residents, businesses, community partners and volunteers who worked together to strengthen Hallandale Beach. At the same time, this report recognizes an important truth: The work is not finished. Infrastructure must continue to be maintained and replaced. Public safety must continue to evolve. Economic opportunities must continue to be pursued. Neighborhoods must continue to be preserved and future challenges must continue to be addressed. As Hallandale Beach approaches its centennial year, it does so from a position of strength. Financially stronger. Operationally stronger. More resilient. More connected. More prepared for the future.
60
H A L L A N D A L E B E A C H : S I X Y E A R S T H AT C H A N G E D O U R F U T U R E
T
he next chapter of Hallandale Beach’s story is still being written. But because of the work accomplished over the past six years, the foundation for that future is stronger than ever before.
HALLANDALE BEACH 2020-2026
si x y e a r s t h a t c h a n g e d our future communit y impact report
STRONGER NEIGHBORHOODS INVESTING IN PEOPLE, PLACES & POSSIBILITIES
THRIVING BUSINESSES BUILDING A FOUNDATION FOR SUSTAINABLE GROWTH
ENDLESS OPPORTUNITIES A CITY PREPARED FOR TOMORROW, TODAY