F. CONDOMINIUM STRUCTURAL COMMISSION
ACTION: (T-3:13 PM) Mayor Geller discussed attending three Broward
County Condominium Structural Commission meetings. Mayor Geller
also thanked Maite Azcoitia for doing a wonderful job in acting as
drafting minutes secretary. In addition, Mayor Geller invited all to
attend and provide input at the final meeting, which is being held a
week from Friday in the chambers, resulting in the adoption of
recommendations. (Refer to minutes for full discussion.)
G. TUNNEL/BRIDGE PLANNING
ACTION: (T-3:14 PM) Mayor Geller commented on
a
Sun Sentinel
article revealing Mayor Trantalis’ strong support for a tunnel and
strong opposition to any type of bridge. Mayor Geller also discussed
potential bridge costs. (Refer to minutes for full discussion.)
In response to Mayor Geller, County Administrator Bertha Henry
relayed meeting with Mayor Trantalis, along with Deputy County
Administrator Monica Cepero on this topic, advising that both sides
concur as to a lack of information at this point. Ms. Henry confirmed
Mayor Trantalis’ support for
a
tunnel and suggested dialogue be
conducted between engineers to solicit accurate information in
planning with regard to resilience and sustainability. In addition, Ms.
Henry advised additional dialogue is necessary. (Refer to minutes for
full discussion.)
In response to County Administrator Bertha Henry, Mayor Geller
stated that he agrees with Mayor Trantalis that a bridge is not ideal, as
it serves as a barrier by dividing groups; however, that if the current
numbers are accurate, that it is unrealistic to afford a tunnel. (Refer to
minutes for full discussion.)
In response to Mayor Geller, Commissioner Ryan highlighted the
distinction between a tunnel and a tube, pointing out that the costs
being presented by the Florida Department of Transportation are far
more accurate than the cost estimates brought forward without any
engineering
analysis.
Commissioner
Ryan
suggested
hiring
a
consulting firm with a level of independence to develop a report,
pointing out that the opportunity for federal dollars to pay the capital
cost for commuter rail on the east side may be lost. (Refer to minutes
for full discussion.)
In response to Commissioner Ryan, County Administrator Bertha
Henry clarified that a traditional tunnel is being considered now, the