Cooper City Budget and the City Manager

The upcoming budget will be a very challenging experience and it will test the commission as to where they are heading on serious issues. Are they going to massively raise your taxes again? Our Budget Workshops are upcoming to set millage rates, debt levy, adoption of initial assessment resolutions and to set times and dates for public budget hearings, all at city hall. Visit CooperCitFL.org for dates and times.

The decisions made during this upcoming budget process are going to be difficult and will affect all residents in an adverse way, and I am doing everything possible to avoid that on your behalf. It’s past time to address the issue of solutions in order to reduce costs, not continuing to promote unnecessary feel good services while continuing to neglect and not improve core services instead of select favorite programs. The likelihood is that your commission majority will massively raise taxes again because this isn’t a primary election year.

One reason I see that the city is such a mess financially is that most career politicians on the dais care far more about keeping their political jobs than about helping you keep yours. My recent challenge to my fellow commissioners is “what’s the tough choice in 2018 that you’re going to make in order to make Cooper City better, more efficient and less costly to run?” You guessed it…no responses by anyone on the commission. Just the typical rhetoric regarding the budget process which doesn’t put more money in your pocket.

I recently motioned to terminate the city manager due to this continuing fiscal incompetence, lack of providing detailed information on agenda items, lack of providing information to residents and appointed board members. You guessed it, no support on your behalf from the political alliance. How unfortunate that those who run the city seem to not care a wit about those who pay their salary.

The city faces immediate tough choices in order to make this next fiscal year a priority to increase services, reduce taxes and improve customer service. My first priority after public safety is creating local jobs and lowering your taxes. Jobs are created here in our city by local business owners, not in Tallahassee or in Washington. This is why we need to elect like-minded residents, so they can save money and create more jobs.

One final note, there are candidates running for Districts 1 and 2 in November 2018, and I'm sure there are more to come. Hopefully you will make the right decision to seat commissioners in Districts 1 and 2 who will always look out for your best interests, not the interests of themselves and their political future or those who are political hacks of those on the commission.

To those of you that are concerned about what this commission wants to do regarding this upcoming budget process, please forward your concerns to me. I will voice them but I can assure you, they may be ignored if it puts money in your pocket.

Commissioner John Sims

CITY COMMISSION EXPRESSES ZERO TOLERANCE FOR SPEEDING IN COOPER CITY - YOU'VE BEEN WARNED!

CITY COMMISSION EXPRESSES ZERO TOLERANCE FOR SPEEDING IN COOPER CITY

COOPER CITY, FL (September 13, 2016) --- In response to the resident concerns about the ongoing speeding problem in Cooper City, the City Commission has encouraged BSO to "step-up" traffic enforcement, with a zero tolerance policy for drivers who ignore speed limits and stop signs.  The discussion began with an item on the September 12th Budget Hearing agenda, regarding a traffic study for 118th Ave. All members of the Commission were in agreement that action must be taken to deter drivers from exceeding speed limits throughout Cooper City.

It was stressed that every officer should be ticketing every driver who is speeding. Residents are complaining and they are afraid for their children's safety, but they are also the ones who are speeding. The Commission complimented BSO's enforcement activities and shared that District 16 deputies issued a total of 534 tickets citywide, just during the month of August. A Labor Day weekend traffic blitz resulted in 141 tickets. Speeding violations have warranted 358 tickets on SW 118th Avenue and 146 tickets on SW 49th Street alone for the year to date.

Acknowledging that BSO must "walk a fine line" between enforcement and community relations, It was stressed that BSO make a concerted effort and take whatever measures are necessary to curb this problem. Captain Cates has full authority to enforce the City's speed limits and issue any citations that are necessary. Captain Cates agreed that speeding in dense urban areas is a chronic problem throughout South Florida and will develop a strategy to hit this issue hard to gain community compliance.

Additional traffic details will be presented to the Commission at the Final Budget Hearing on September 20th at 6:30 in City Hall.

Sunshine week was rainy in Cooper City

Sunshine week was rainy in Cooper City

The week of March 11^th was Sunshine Week. Such has not been the case as of late in Cooper City. Sunshine Week is observed annually throughout the US to point out that the public's business must be open to the public and that Government, must be open to public inspection. It is a national 'open government' initiative spearheaded by the majority of Americans to raise the awareness and educate the public about the importance of open government and the dangers of excessive secrecy.
 

It coincides with the birthday of James Madison, a Founding Father of our country known for his emphasis on the checks and balances in government and his advocacy of open government, a view that I continue to strongly support. Open government and transparency are essential to maintaining our freedoms from repression by government as well as free speech. As such, political discourse and full expression of opinion is a necessary and vital element for a healthy society to survive.



The words describing open government and transparency are words that may well be ignored. These words are being propagated yet ignored deep down in the bowels of the bureaucracy of government administrations. Given my experience and based on mine and other's observations, I have concluded and am disappointed to report that transparency and open government, along with freedom of speech, are not being put into practice in our city as required. We saw this in the recent State Attorney’s criminal investigation in Cooper City regarding secretly held meetings and again just last month regarding lack of notice to the public for Planning and Zoning Board meetings.



The Privacy and Freedom of Information Acts, along with constitutional amendments regarding Free Speech and Free Expression, are not meant to limit the flow of information and communication between the government and its electorate, but quite the opposite. The disregard by government of the clear language of the law is disheartening. It is quite appropriate that during Sunshine Week, although already passed, I bring out the turbulence that our local city government has created in abeyance of our Constitution and Sunshine laws.



I have placed on the agenda, an initiative to demand full, open and vast public notice of any and all ‘non-shade’ meetings in Cooper City.  I am not referring to just the bare minimal legal requirements. We will see if my colleagues on the commission support your rights, or protect the established methods that smacks of a complete and arrogant disregard for our public duty, our Oath of Office and our collective consciousness when it comes to fully informing the public.

 

During Sunshine Week, hundreds of truly dedicated elected representatives who understand the great and vast importance of this issue, media organizations, publishers, civic groups, libraries, nonprofits, schools and other participants, engage in public discussion on the importance of open government throughout many coffee shops, gatherings with family and friends, news programs, featured articles and hundreds of opinion columns, Web pages and blogs, editorials, cartoons, public service advertising, public seminars and forums.

As such, I implore you to do what you can to demand open government, improve open government and transparency, to communicate more effectively with your local elected officials and provide a full range of commentary not just on political issues, but on your everyday issues. Only the future will show who will step up to the mandates of open government in Cooper City. 

Cooper City’s Future

Cooper City’s Future

Thank you Cooper City! I would like to thank all of Cooper City’s residents for my recent re-election victory despite the staunch opposition. This was a grass-roots movement motivated by demanding change in how our city has been led and how it will be led in the future. This was indeed a victory for ‘We The People’.

It was important for me to run again because I’ve seen our community continually headed in the wrong direction. We’ve become way too complacent. Governments are instituted to protect the people’s rights and liberties, and that’s what’s lacking in our city. Too many have been playing politics as opposed to representing the wants and desires of their constituents.

I am pro good government. I want to see limited, effective government. As such, I will continue to work for you, the resident and business owner, advocating lower taxes, a smaller more accountable government, personal responsibility, a strong police presence and protection individual rights, and I will continue to stand by my voting record and my fiscally conservative actions while representing the people and business owners of Cooper City.

Based on our recent budget, the city must implement severe cost-reduction measures rather than fund our future on increased taxes. If not, we will either have to continue raise taxes, or make some serious cuts. And, nothing can be held harmless in making those deep cuts.

We can’t fund our city’s future on the fly, yet viable solutions are absolutely within reach. The city at all levels must stop and think “what’s good for Cooper City and its residents?" when making decisions. With that, I will remain fully committed to review and implement any and all cost cutting/cost sharing measures which provide a more accountable, efficient and effective city government at a reduced cost for the residents of our great city.

There are only two parts of the issue of success on the city commission, and they are mutual assistance and mutual respect. That has been lacking for quite some time, and now is the time to continue to hold each and every commissioner accountable. Mutual respect means that although we may not agree on issues, we must work through these differences, honestly and openly, and the end result must be solely on your behalf. We can WIN together but only if we WORK together. The past is behind us, the present is an opportunity, and the future is in our hands. My friends, good things do not come to those who wait. We’ve tried that, and now we now must reach...together.

In closing, I would like to once again thank the residents of Cooper City for allowing me to serve as your ‘Go To’ Commissioner. It is an honor to continue to represent you. You can view my website at www.KeepSims.com, or I am readily available by telephone at 954.445.6997 or via email at commissioner_sims@coopercityfl.org. Please allow me to continue to help resolve your concerns.

 

Commission Swearing In Ceremony Tuesday Night Nov. 25th @ 6 PM

Friends & Neighbors:

Janet and I cordially invite you to join us this coming Tuesday, November 25th at 6:00 PM – at City Hall located at 9090 SW 50 Place, in the Commission Chambers where I will be sworn in as the senior member of the city commission, and as City Commissioner for Cooper City for District 1. LET'S PACK THE HOUSE!

 

Your support over the past 7+ years, and especially over the last few months has been absolutely overwhelming. Last election day, November 4th, I succeeded in winning every precinct but two, thanks to the support of Cooper City residents who voted not just for me, but for continued and increased fiscal responsibility, ethical government, honesty, open government and communication, and most of all government transparency. Simply put, your voice was heard loud and clear despite staunch opposition by the unbefitting political faction who fortunately no longer controls our lives, our city and our local government!

 

You have given me the continued responsibility to keep a keen watch over our city government, the opportunity to change the way our city does business, and to ensure your hard earned money is not wasted on wants, but real needs. And...I will work with my colleagues, as they have again promised in collaboration on your behalf, to do just that as I again take my place on the dais, unfortunately for my final term in office.

Together, we will continue to make Cooper City an even greater place, yes, more than just 'Someplace Special' for our working families to live and prosper.

I look forward to seeing you at city hall Tuesday night at 6!

THANK YOU COOPER CITY!

I want to thank Cooper City for their unwavering support and for their confidence and faith in me. Thank you from the bottom of my heart!


Also, a BIG THANKS to everyone who stood fast and volunteered in the race! YOU deserve the kudos!


Together, we will make Cooper City more than just 'Someplace Special'! It just goes to show that dirty politricks, empty suits, corruption, smear campaigns, lies, sign theft, frivolous newspaper and corrupt union endorsements and the 'it's all about me' attitude just doesn't work anymore in 'Someplace Special'!

Vote Tueday November 4th for John Sims!

It has been seven plus years since my first election to the Commission. You and I share many memories, trials and tribulations. Some of those memories have been glorious, some have been very frightening and sad. We have made many friends and enemies, and have gained and lost the support of residents. After all of the trials and tribulations, the opportunity to work with you and serve Cooper City has made my life’s goals worthwhile, and I wish to continue to serve the public in the best way that I can, looking out for you...

The coming election on Nov. 4th is of great importance to Cooper City. It is and has always been my committed goal to represent all of the city residents regardless of the district lines, which are in place for residency requirements only. Anyone in the entire city can support me.

As many of you are aware the problems that have faced us over the past couple of years has demanded that the voice of the residents must be heard and responded to, and not simply at the pleasure of a few. I have never wavered from my dedication to providing a forum for you to communicate your needs and to seek out solutions that are responsive to you.

The budget of the city has increased from less than $30M to over $50M in 7 years. I have vigorously sought to prevent unnecessary spending, yet at the same time insisting that the quality of services to the residents be of utmost importance.

As the only commissioner who has run a business and met payroll, I can assure you that now that this is not the time for on-the-job training, inexperience and a learning process at your expense. My experience, expertise and fundamental understanding of the processes of municipal government is solely directed to making the very best of what we offer as services of the city. 

The issues that seem to continue to require diligence are speed control within the city, the proper allocation of Code Compliance (compliance is the key, not a heavy handed oppression), and an upmost persistence to open transparent government with my commitment to hearing what the residents want, as that is why I am have earned the name of your ‘Go To’ commissioner.

It is responding to your emails, letters, and phone calls that resulted in your confidence in me by elected me twice and I hope for a third term so that I can continue to act on your behalf and not just simply go along to get along as some of my colleagues seem to do.

To know John Sims is to know how hard he works for you. He has the right vision for Cooper City and, with your cooperation; wonderful new things can happen to our quality of life & neighborhoods in Cooper City. At the same time John is very business oriented and fiscally astute. If you want a straight answer, not rhetoric, talk to John. If you want many continued empty promises, runaway spending and politically correct gibberish, vote for those who oppose and who are running against Commissioner Sims.

It is quite clear that some have in the past, and another one is running for office without any real understanding of the issues must less how to go about finding a solution. We need experience in city hall, not just another empty suit! Let's all continue the fight to solve the issues that linger in our city!

Who's going to be able to deliver leadership in our future without the constraints and ties to the past or present, without obligations and political favors to special interests? That’s right, John Sims! We talk so much about our history and the fact that Cooper City is supposed to be ‘Someplace Special”, but this is not about our history. It's about our future. And our future is at a dangerous crossroad. “My interest is genuine. It has been proven time and time again that I am representing you and no one else.”

And so I ask you, the people of Cooper City, to think this through with me. In facing this decision to seek re-election, I seek your prayers and support. In making it, I have decided that my service to you is of the utmost importance, for this is a decision that will affect our city's well-being for years to come. As such, I want you to know that I have an unmistakable belief in my destiny…honest and dedicated public service.

I wish to thank all of you for the support, dedication and help in the past and in the future. We can only succeed if we all try together, and city hall is the place to start! Let me help you to continue to be successful and continue to maintain Cooper City as 'Someplace Special'!

Vote for John Sims on Election Day, November 4, 2014

Working hard to be your 'Go To' Commissioner!

Hello all...I’m working hard on continuing to be your ‘Go To’ commissioner in Cooper City.



Throughout my many years as a resident and public servant, I’ve been actively involved in our community working with residents and local business owners to ensure that we maintain Cooper City as ‘Someplace Special’, unlike my opponent who has never been involved in anything regarding your issues, the city and it's business.




This office is not just about setting policy and implementing local laws; this office is about trust, integrity, open government, public safety, your money, and a whole lot more...

We need to guarantee the future of our community for today and a strengthened community for everyone in the future, with an improved quality of life for our children and our grandchildren for years to come.


It’s all about protecting and preserving our rights and our quality of life. I hope you will keep me, John Sims, as your ‘Go To’ commissioner in Cooper City. Thank you for your vote and your support!

Repost from a Cooper City Resident regarding Campaign Sign Theft by the Opposition Candidate...

Walt Jolliff -- Recent events in the singular election contest in Cooper City has brought out the real nature of the challenger to Commissioner John Sims. The opponent and his supporters started their campaign of destruction and thievery by stealing campaign signs during the darkness of night, signs legally placed upon local property and on business locations provided to the Sims campaign. 

 Such behavior is more like that of adolescent youngsters and it is totally unacceptable for adults who seek to govern our city. The fact that destruction and thievery of political signs not only reflects upon the character of the perpetrators and the candidate they support but is a slap in the face of the residents who regardless of their political view support the freedom of speech which allows all of us to express our view openly and without concern or fear of the stealth of vandalism during the night upon our property or the property of others. 

 The financial impact of these nefarious activities has now reached the point of constituting theft at the level of Grand Theft, that’s right grand theft. Hundreds of dollars in signs, lumber and manpower paid for by well intentioned residents in support of their candidate of choice has been tarnished by the childish acts of adults thinking that this is the political process of disapproval that we in Cooper City condone. 

Can there be any excuse for such behavior? This is not the mischievous behavior of youngsters, this is the conduct of a person or persons who seek to advocate their choice of candidate to govern our community by theft of the expression of others in their choice. 
   
I think it is time to call upon the decent law abiding residents of Cooper City to show their disapproval of this disgusting and illegal conduct by doing what all law abiding people do in our country. Express your disgust with this nefarious conduct and use your belief in the manner that all good citizens believe in. 

It is up to you to decide what type of persons you want in your local community government. One which operates during the darkness of night by destruction and thievery or one that which conducts its self openly during the light of day. It’s up to you to make the call.

 Exercise your precious right to elect the person you think can do the best on your behalf by your VOTE on Nov. 4th. I am casting my vote for John Sims.

Davie & The Ranches Magazine October Candidate Article

As many of you are aware, the problems that have faced Cooper City have demanded that the voice of the residents be heard and responded to. I have never wavered from my dedication to you, communicating about your issues and seeking solutions that are favorable.

 

The city budget has doubled from $25M to $50M in 7 years. I have objected to unnecessary spending, meanwhile insisting that the quality of services to our residents come first. I support reducing taxes to put more money in your pocket. The city must immediately address revenue wind-falls by reducing unnecessary spending. The city must spend less and ‘tighten their belt’ as us residents have had to do.

Now is not the time for inexperienced leadership. My experience in business and municipal government are directed to providing the best of services offered to our residents and business owners. The issues that seem to require diligence are; controlling speeding, obtaining compliance with our codes (not a heavy handed oppression), improving safety, further reduction of crime, demanding open and transparent government, along with my commitment to supporting what the residents desire. I will sponsor implementation of senior and fixed income fee and tax relief programs to enhance our seniors’ quality of life. 

I will continue to work to ensure that students that go to school here also live here, reducing overcrowding and future redistricting, and ensuring our schools remain safe and secure. I will continue to address the concerns of residents on a fixed income while meeting the needs of growing families, businesses and future development by sponsoring a Utilities Advisory Board charged with reviewing the Enterprise, including infrastructure, funding and budgeting.

The Nov. 4th election is of great importance to Cooper City. It is, and has always been my committed goal to represent all residents regardless of the district lines. This is an ‘At-Large’ vote, meaning anyone in the city can vote for me. It is responding to your emails, letters, and phone calls that have resulted in your confidence in me, and I wish continue to serve on your behalf with your support.

I will continue to work hard to support our residents and business owners, implementing additional programs and working directly with you to help make you successful, resolving your issues, and continuing to maintain the title of your ‘Go To’ Commissioner.

Thank you for your support. You can visit my website at www.KeepSims.com

Facebook and my blog...

Facebook and my blog have been incredibly beneficial to me as your ‘Go To’ commissioner, because it has definitely opened a big window into the soul of the Cooper City community. I can't serve our residents and business owners well if I don't know what they demand in a leader. People ask why I put such effort into this page. The answer is simple...It's my job to know. Keep telling me what your issues are and I'll keep asking you for ideas and for your opinions, especially on how you want to resolve the many issues that our city faces. Thank you for your continuing support in allowing me to be your ‘Go To’ Commissioner!

School SMART Bond, Timberlake pipe replacement & More...

I hope all of you had a great Labor Day weekend! The issue of the Cooper City Commission giving themselves a hefty pay raise is on the commission agenda for tomorrow, Thursday, September 11^that 6:30 PM at City Hall. The pay raise is scheduled to be anywhere between 100 and 233%, Why that day was picked still remains a mystery…Please be there to voice your opinion and concerns.

I would like to comment on the Utilities dept. and say what a great job they have done in managing the water pipe replacement in Timberlake! Not only has Mike Bailey and his dedicated crew done a fantastic job, but so has Killebrew, the contractor. This project is nearing completion, and there has been a minimal impact and minimal service outages throughout the development. Kudos to Killebrew and the Cooper City Utilities Department…great job!

The Flag ceremony at the community center very successful and everyone commented how well it was performed. Unfortunately, a personal commitment prevented from attending. I would however remind you that the Governor has proclaimed tomorrow as Patriot Day and has asked that all flags be flown at half-mast to remember those who gave their lives and in remembrance of the citizens who lost their lives, in addition to their families, on September 11^th. Please say a prayer or give a moment of silence for them. They will always be remembered…

On September 15, 1024 at 6.30 pm in the Cooper City Commission Chambers, a presentation will be made by of the results of a recently completed traffic study conducted Calvin & Giordano at Pioneer Middle School. As you are aware, the traffic conditions associated with the drop off and pick up of students has a deleterious impact on traffic and student safety. The study was commissioned by the City to determine what remedies, if any, could be found.  The study and its results will be presented at the Commission meeting and we request your attendance as we address this significant safety concern.

I also want to let everyone know that Cooper City is proposing (at the last budget workshop), in the upcoming budget, to appropriate a $100,000 ‘donation’ to Cooper City schools. You can see where the Cooper City portion of the $800M bond is going to be allocated at http://www.KeepSims.com/SMART.pdf What do you have to say about this? Please, let your voice be heard!

Our sewer rehabilitation contractor USSI Inc., will commence work in the Rock Creek and Flamingo Gardens areas.  This will involve work inside all of the manholes and also smoke testing of the system.  During this test, the contractor will force smoke into the sanitary sewer lines to check for leaks, breaks and defects in the system.  Prior to the smoke testing, the contractor will distribute door hangers to notify residents, and we will also follow up with another message to you in advance.  Jeff Roberson (954-434-4300 ext-118) is the administrator for this project.  Please pass this along to anyone you think might be interested and let us know if you have any questions.

If you haven’t seen the new Face Book page for Cooper City, then check it out! You can 'LIKE' the page at http://www.facebook.com/coopercitycorner  All of the posts have been great so far...LIKE and participate!

Thank you for your support and if you would like a yard sign, please let me know. Also, any and all donations are gladly and humbly accepted. Have a great weekend!

Keeping you informed,

John

Commissioner John Sims

Cooper City Commission Set To Give Themselves a 100%-233% Raise

We are asking all of our Cooper City residents to come out to the special Commission meeting on September 11th at City Hall beginning at 6:30 PM. The Commission is discussing giving themselves a minimum of a 100% to a maximum of 233% pay raise! While the charter gives them the power to do it, it doesn't state the amounts. I can't imagine themselves giving THEMSELVES that kind of an increase. As Taxpayers this will mean a minimum of $30,000.00 per year up to $70,000.00 total per year, each. It is important to remember that it is an elected position and a part-time one at that, but of course Comm. Curran will attack me on that premise. We pay a city manager over $150K to run our city.

You can view the entire discussion at the Commission Meeting at http://cooper.granicus.com/MediaPlayer.php?view_id=2... . If you would like to see the Commissioners discuss the topic of their raises click on http://cooper.granicus.com/MediaPlayer.php?view_id=2... and go to 1:58. We went three times around before the vote. Listen to the rationale of some of the city commission members as to why they are voting for a pay raise...ridiculous, and absurd in my humble opinion as to why the commission deserves a raise! This is all about public service, not about making money on your dime!

Apparently some on the Commission have publicly stated that I voted NO at the above referenced meeting (and I quote) 'because it is an election year'. Let me set the record straight with truth and facts...I voted NO for the reasons explained on record in the above referenced video. In addition, I have voted NO for commission pay raises at least twice in the past, since I have been so fortunate to represent your best interests, for the same reasons. Don't be fooled...I think it is absurd for the commission to ask for a pay raise when there are families in Cooper City who are still struggling to make ends meet...

Hope to see you on September 11th at 6:30 PM at City Hall.

Learn more at https://www.facebook.com/coopercitycorner

Cooper City Pay Raises, Dog Parks and more...

Effective immediately, our District 16 BSO office will serve as safe havens for online buyers and sellers to meet in our parking lot or lobby area. This initiative is expanding the public service (child custody cases, etc.) and practices we already have in place at District Offices. The District 16 Police department is located at 10580 Stirling Road, and can be reached at (954) 432-9000 (non-emergency number)

NEW! There is a new Face Book page for Cooper City! You can 'LIKE' the page at https://www.facebook.com/coopercitycorner Some of the posts have been great so far...LIKE and participate!

An issue that has arisen at the last Commission meeting is that of allowing dogs in our parks. There have been some valid and health concerns raised from residents. I have always loved dogs and don't necessarily agree with allowing them in our parks for a multitude of reasons. Health, safety and bacteria are just a few. I do however, fully SUPPORT a Dog Park in Cooper City! We have plenty of open space and funds to be able to support this effort in our community. I have already heard from numerous residents who support a dog park. Do you? Please let me know your thoughts on this issue...

One of the most controversial issues as of late has been the issue of the Cooper City Commission giving themselves a hefty pay raise. I am here to set the record straight (for the third time). You can view the entire discussion at the Commission Meeting HERE. If you would like to see the Commissioners discuss the topic of their raises click on THIS LINK and go to 1:58. We went three times around before the vote. Listen to the rationale of some of the city commission members as to why they are voting for a pay raise...ridiculous, and absurd in my humble opinion as to why the commission deserves a raise! This is all about public service, not about making money on your dime!

Apparently some on the Commission have publicly stated that I voted NO at the above referenced meeting (and I quote) 'because it is an election year'. Let me set the record straight with truth and facts...I voted NO for the reasons explained on record in the above referenced video. In addition, I have voted NO for commission pay raises at least twice in the past, since I have been so fortunate to represent your best interests, for the same reasons. Don't be fooled...I think it is absurd for the commission to ask for a pay raise when there are families in Cooper City who are still struggling to make ends meet! I am sure the 'politricks' will escalate between now and November 4th.

I also want to let everyone know that Cooper City is proposing (at the last budget workshop), in the upcoming budget, to appropriate $100,000 to Cooper City schools. While I am all for education, I also want to assure you that I do not support this effort based solely on the commentary I have received from our residents to date, especially when the Broward County School Board wants an $800+ million dollar bond referendum in November!

As I stated at the Commission Workshop meeting, I will more than likely in the very near future, be labeled as the 'anti-education/kids/schools' commissioner for opposing this unnecessary expenditure on the backs of Cooper City residents and business owners. Handing over so much money to a county run school, when our seniors need so much besides a monthly lunch and bingo, among other more pressing issues in our city, is disgraceful! What about the Charter Schools? Why shouldn't we give them the same amount (being consistent as the Commission touts)? There is still a plethora of unanswered questions...

There is absolutely no justification for this 'donation' to the school board, no cost-benefit analysis, no discussion as to the infrastructure and maintenance of such an expenditure, and (as Commissioner Green says repeatedly) we cannot set a precedent in this regard, otherwise everyone will want $100K for their cause...What do you have to say about this? Please, let your voice be heard!

On another note...The Cooper City staff invites all of you to share your stories, pictures and memorabilia about life in Cooper City. We already have a time capsule for the future. The 'PRESERVING COOPER CITY'S PAST' event is an event for residents and friends to come see our historic room and to bring and share your own pictures, documents, videos, pictures and stories from decades prior to 1980. Please join us...

The event will be held Sunday, July 27th at the Cooper City pool and Tennis Center in Rock Creek from 1:00 PM until 4:00 PM. Refreshments will be served. For additional information, please contact the Recreation Department at (954) 434-4300 Extension 233. YOU are the key to preserving Cooper City's past!

Keeping you informed,

John

Commissioner John Sims
Your 'Go To' Commissioner

Cooper City news, asbestos, BSO, food trucks and more…

Lately there have been rumors regarding possible asbestos in our water. Let me assure you that this is not true. Our Utilities Director cleared the air and stated the facts at our last meeting, and reassured us that Cooper City still has the best quality water available and it is regularly tested for contaminants.

Cooper City has recently received a state grant for over ½ million dollars to replace our water pipes in Timberlake and have started the replacement process, with more areas to be replaced in the future. The contractors have been doing a very good job in keeping the water turned on, and have been able to accomplish the task with minimal damage to private property.

Thanks to Ron Book (our lobbyist) who was able to help in obtaining the grant money. I supported retaining Mr. Book because he was the right man for the job, even though there was opposition to my support. This grant (your tax) money has allowed us to replace the older water pipes without increasing taxes or fees in order to do so. If there are any issues that you may have with the water or the construction of the new pipes, please let me know and I will do what I can to resolve the problem as your ‘go to’ commissioner.

Our 2014-15 budget season is now upon us and we will have budget meetings on Wednesday and Thursday, July 16 and 17^th. Our budget now tops $50 million annually. There are diverse issues of our proposed budget which may interest you, and if you are interested in receiving a copy you can either email me or go to the city web site and browse the budget department to download it for yourself. If there are concerns please come to the budget meetings and voice your concerns to your commission.

Other good news in Cooper City is that our crime rate is down by nearly 15% from last year. The crime rate went from 2.83 down to 1.8. I commend Broward sheriff’s office for doing a fantastic job in keeping our communities safe. Safety of our community and our families are government’s number one priority and as such, I will continue to support BSO in order to keep you and our local business owners safe.

Our home’s taxable value increased this year. It was 8% last year and is valued at 7.35% this year. Even though this is a substantial increase, those with homestead exemption will see no more than a 1.5% increase based on the current year’s CPI.

Also there has been some discussion regarding the food truck explosion in Pennsylvania. Rest assured that I have addressed this issue with our city manager. I have been assured that the Fire Marshall will be inspecting the food trucks and will require them to have business tax receipts in addition to the inspections in order to do business in Cooper City. I hope that the city will step up and support our local businesses as much as they do the food trucks.

Keeping you informed...

Keeping you informed on issues that impact you in Cooper City is one of my primary goals as your 'Go To' Commissioner. Discussing and blogging the city commission's activity is part of my goal to make it easier for more residents to get involved with issues that matter to them. Government should be as accessible as possible to as many people as are interested, and thus my role in keeping you informed! THANK YOU for your continued support!

Storage Lot Worshop June 18th

The Cooper City Commission recently approved a motion made by me to schedule a workshop regarding the City’s Storage/Parking Facilities.

The open public workshop meeting will be held at City Hall on Wednesday, June 18, 2014 at 6:30 p.m.

I will provide the upcoming agenda and all data on the subject-matter regarding the agenda.

If you have any questions, please attend the workshop!

 Keeping you informed...

The $6 Million dollar "Soccer Park"...Can you say 'Red Herring'?

(Comments from a resident I was asked to post, and gladly obliged...)


What’s really going on?


What is really behind the planned $6+ million dollars to be spent on the soccer field, AKA West Sports Complex (Flamingo Road between Sterling & Griffin Roads),  Debbie Eisinger's Folly, you know the park..., the one on the far, far west side of Cooper City just south of Stirling Rd. on Flamingo Rd? 

I wonder if Southwest Ranches would like to join with us in providing a sports facility for their city. Just what every parent wants, is that their kids will have to traverse the dangerous roads and intersections at the corner of Flaming Road to get to this lavish Soccer Sports Field...Of course NOT!


Questions begin to arise when a meeting of the commission members (Workshop Scheduled May 8th 6:30 PM) is conducted in ‘secret’ (April 12, 2012). City officials quickly denied that the meeting was secret (The public was NOT notified regardless of what the city attorney opines). Strong responses from city officials proclaimed that a notice was posted on the bulletin board (inside the foyer) at city hall. The City attorney quickly jumped in with ‘legally sufficient’ applied to it and the minutes submitted (as an email from the city manager), all 24 words (in a meeting that lasted well over an hour and a half).


There were several slip ups on the veracity of the participants however...A recent blog comments to the lack of remembrance on the part of Commissioner Mallozzi (this one). City attorney syas he was not present contrary to Commissioner  Mallozzi in her published article (In the Davie & the Ranches Magazine) to the residents that the city attorney was there, Hmmm...


Commissioner Curran who, since 2008, has been designated by the city commission as being the 'Optimist Liaison', very aggressively proclaimed that he has attended some 18 meetings on the subject of  the Flamingo Soccer Park. (City personnel vigorously deny that it is a soccer park...) It is noteworthy that Commissioner Curran has never provided any commentary during commission meetings, sent any memos, discussion papers, or anything that could be construed as being informative regarding the agenda, topics, and agreements with the Cooper City Optimists regarding usage of the sports field. (Informal commentary by members of the Optimists seems to indicate that the Optimists have required that the field be designated, designed and constructed to meet the needs of the Optimists. The main purpose of which is to consolidate the fields for the convenience (ease of use) of the Optimists).


Does this raise the question...Has a deal been struck? If so with whom? What was given in return? (Let's not forget, the city attorney stated that the Optimist 'Field Use Resolution' was a valid and binding contract between the city and the Optimist club). When anyone asks for some sort of explanation, lockjaw sets in. It sounds too absurd to believe that the self declared righteousness of the Optimist Club believes that they are above reproach regarding any suggestions of political ‘quid pro quo’ regardless of somewhat dubious actions in handing

You draw your own conclusions....

(Note from Comm. Sims: As your 'Go To Commissioner' my sole concern regarding this issue is 1) Does the Optimist Club owe the City any 'Non-Resident Fees', and if so, 2) Who will be held accountable for not making that happen?

I have placed on the February 25th Commission Agenda (This Tuesday @ 6:30 PM), a vote for the City Commission to approve a DISCUSSION AND/OR ACTION to set a workshop regarding the boat/RV Storage lots.

This is a 'Request to set a date for a workshop to discuss and review the storage lot issues brought forth by residents – Submitted By Commissioner Sims'

The issues I wish to discuss, IF the majority of the commission approves the workshop, are as follows:

● reducing the rates as promised by the Commission
● storage lots continue to be nonprofit, yet monies are being transferred out of the Parking Lot fund to fund other areas of the budget
● create larger parking spaces within our existing lots (to accommodate 40 foot vehicles)
● fill current vacant spaces before any expansion is considered
● restrict the storage lots to Cooper City residents who should have priority, then businesses, and in addition, perform an inventory
● current renters should not be charged solely for a capital investment when the practice is otherwise throughout the city
● current estimate for expansion lot would cost approximately $20,000 per rental family. This is extremely unreasonable.

If you need to change, add or delete anything to this list for discussion (again, IF the majority of the commission approves this workshop) please feel free to do so and contact me so I can add it to my list above.
Let me know if you need anymore information.

 
I hope that the city, and others involved will give notice to everyone as soon as (again, a big 'IF') we have a definite date.  

As such, it seems that the only way this current commission acts on behalf of the residents concerns, is if multitudes of people show up and show their support. Please do so!

The February 25th Commission Meeting agenda can be seen HERE (.PDF format. Click on the Blue Item number to review the supplied backup material for each item)  

LOCATION: 9090 SW 50TH PLACE, COOPER CITY, FL 33328

 

Please contact your city commission and voice your support for the Storage Lot Workshop. Click HERE for their email and contact info.

Keeping you informed,

John

Commissioner John Sims