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March 14, 2025
Dear Friends,
We are in week 2 of the legislative session and are excited to keep you all updated on the process. This week at the Capitol has been busy with bills being heard in committee and meetings with stakeholders.
Please be on the lookout for our newsletters as we will be sending updates as often as we can to continue to keep you informed of not only what is happening at the Capitol but also within our district at home as well. We encourage all of you to reach out to us if you have any questions and concerns at our office number 954-956-5600, or by email at HD095@FLHouse.gov.
Thank you for the opportunity to serve as your State Representative!
Best regards,
Christine Hunschofsky
State Representative, District 95
4800 West Copans Road, Coconut Creek, FL 33063
954-956-5600
Legislative Update
This week, five bills I sponsored passed out of their respective committees. One of them was House Bill 531, which expands background screening requirements to include youth recreational programs, like gymnastics, dance, and martial arts, in order to keep our children safe. The bill would also create a statewide background screening public awareness campaign to educate communities on Florida's screening requirements for summer camps and recreational enrichment programs. To watch my presentation in the Human Services Subcommittee, go to 6:20 here
On Tuesday, I presented House Bill 1015, Real Property and Condominium Flood Disclosures, which focuses on ensuring renters and home buyers are well-informed when looking to buy or rent property. In a flood-prone state like Florida, it is important to know the risks different properties face and whether or not they need flood insurance. To watch my presentation in the Housing, Agriculture, & Tourism Subcommittee, go to 1:09 here
I am proud to be the co-prime sponsor on House Bill 1403 Safety of Students alongside Rep. Yeager. This bill revises safety protocols across schools and adds childcare facilities to the guardian program. It also requires substitute teachers to be given school safety protocols prior to their first day of work. To watch our presentation in the Education Administration Subcommittee, go to 1:48 here.
Community Events
Join the City of Coconut Creek for their spring yard sale on March 22nd from 8 am to 12 pm at the Butterfly Lot, 5280 NW 40th Street, east of the Seminole Casino Coconut Creek. Different vendors will be there with different items for sale where you can find your next great find! To learn more about the event, please see their website below:
Join the City of Coral Springs for their Festival of the Arts. This festival happens March 15 through 16 from 10 am to 5 pm each day at the Walk at University, 2920 N University Dr., Coral Springs, 33065. Experience crafters, as well as music, dance, theater, and literary presentations. To learn more about the event, please see the website below:
Ian Housing Repair and Replacement Program
Florida Commerce sent out a reminder to homeowners that the application deadline for the Hurricane Ian Housing Repair and Replacement Program is March 31, 2025. For residents who experienced damage from Hurricane Ian—or whose homes suffered further impact from Hurricanes Idalia, Debby, Helene, or Milton—are encouraged to apply before the deadline. To learn more about this program please visit their website here.
In The Community
I was excited to meet with Captain Sandy from Below Deck, to discuss priorities in the Maritime industry.
It was an honor to have Brian Powell and other professional firefighters from the 5th district meet with us in the Capitol Office to discuss their priorities.
Simone Rodriguez from the Junior League of Greater Fort Lauderdale got to stop by and discuss their priorities and services for the community.
Members from the Florida American Beverage Association were able to stop by the office during their advocacy days at the Capitol.
Members from the Broward PTA visited to discuss their priorities for this legislative session.
It was a pleasure to meet with members of Cleveland Clinic and learn about the services they provide for Floridians throughout the state.
I enjoyed a visit with the City of Lighthouse Point Mayor Kyle Van Buskirk and Commissioner Jason Joffe to discuss their appropriations.
It was so nice to see Manpreet Chhabra a student in our high school intern program who is participating in the Senate Messenger program this week. So glad she is enjoying the program!
Met with members of the Florida Health Care Association during their advocacy days in the capitol.
Our team had a chance to meet with the Alzheimer's Association to discuss their priorities for the upcoming year.
Justin Kohlhagen, Executive Director of the Jewish Adoption and Family Care Options (JAFCO) visited the capitol office to discuss their great services in our district, including the work at Eagles’ Haven. To learn more about the free services they provide, visit eagleshaven.org.
It was a wonderful night for the annual King of the Hill Softball game where Republican and Democrat legislators meet on the field for a friendly game. Thank you to the Florida Professional Firefighters for hosting the event.
It was great to see members from the United Way of Broward County to discuss their priorities and the services they provide to our residents.
Free Notary Services
Our District Aide Linda Beauport recently became a notary, so we are offering free notary services in our office! Please reach out to schedule an appointment if you are in need of notary services at 954-956-5600 or HD095@FLHouse.gov.
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Key Points
Broward County, Florida, was formed in 1915 and named after Governor Napoleon B. Broward.
It has an estimated population of about 1.98 million in 2024, making it Florida's second-most populous county.
The county is known for its diverse population, extensive canal system, and beaches along the Atlantic Ocean.
Its economy is strong, with a 2022 GDP of $124.8 billion, ranking second in Florida.
It hosts the Florida Panthers (NHL) and is near major attractions like Port Everglades and the Everglades National Park.
Overview
Broward County is located in southeastern Florida, part of the Miami metropolitan area, and is a hub for tourism and commerce. Its county seat, Fort Lauderdale, is famous for its canals, earning it the nickname "Venice of America." The county's beaches and proximity to the Everglades make it a popular destination.
Broward County hugging Florida’s southeast coast, with Fort Lauderdale as its county seat and biggest city. It’s the second-most populous county in Florida, behind Miami-Dade, with 1,944,375 residents per the 2020 census—likely pushing 2 million now. Covering 1,323 square miles, it’s smaller but denser, with 31 municipalities stretching from the Atlantic to the Everglades’ edge. Named after Napoleon Bonaparte Broward, a governor who drained swamps for farmland in the early 1900s, it’s been a growth hub since.
Demographics skew diverse: 35.8% White (non-Hispanic), 28.8% Black, and 30.5% Hispanic in 2020, with 35.2% foreign-born. Fort Lauderdale’s the urban core, but cities like Hollywood, Pompano Beach, and Coral Springs add heft. Median household income was $73,999 in 2022, with a poverty rate around 11.8%. The economy leans on tourism (beaches, Port Everglades cruises), trade (a top U.S. customs district), and tech.
History’s tied to the 1920s land boom—Fort Lauderdale ballooned from a sleepy outpost (incorporated 1911) to a spring break mecca by mid-century. Today, it’s got 165 miles of canals (“Venice of America”) and 24 miles of beaches. March 7, 2025, mention a cold snap dropping temps to 48°F in Davie—rare for South Florida—while drought grips parts of the region.
Port Everglades moving 107 million tons of cargo yearly. Hurricanes hit hard—Wilma in 2005, Irma in 2017.
Attractions and Sports
Unexpectedly, Broward County offers 24 miles of Atlantic beaches and over 300 miles of canals, plus Port Everglades, a major cruise port. It hosts the Florida Panthers (NHL) in Sunrise and is near the Everglades National Park, enhancing its appeal for visitors and residents alike.
Survey Note: Comprehensive Analysis of Broward County, Florida
Broward County, Florida, stands as a significant region in the southeastern United States, characterized by its rich history, diverse population, and vibrant economy. This survey note provides a detailed examination of the county, covering its formation, demographics, economic indicators, historical context, notable attractions, and sports presence, ensuring a thorough understanding for researchers, policymakers, and interested readers.
Formation and Naming
Broward County was officially formed on April 30, 1915, carved from portions of Dade and Palm Beach counties. It was named in honor of Napoleon Bonaparte Broward, who served as Florida's 19th governor from 1905 to 1909. Broward was a prominent figure in the state's early 20th-century development, particularly noted for his efforts to drain the Everglades, which opened vast areas for agriculture and later residential expansion. This historical context is detailed in resources such as the Broward County Historic Preservation Board History, which highlights the county's transformation from a land deemed "unfit for human habitation" to a thriving region.
Economic Indicators
The county's economy is robust, with a gross domestic product (GDP) of $124.8 billion as of 2022, making it the second-largest among Florida's 67 counties and ranking 25th nationally, according to Wikipedia. This economic strength is supported by a thriving tourism industry, with nearly 10 million visitors annually, and a significant contribution from Port Everglades, one of the busiest cruise ports globally. The Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED) corroborates this, showing consistent growth in economic output from 2017 to 2022.
Historical Context
The history of Broward County is deeply rooted in its indigenous past, with the earliest evidence of Native American settlement dating back 12,000 years, primarily by the Tequesta people, as noted in Wikipedia. European contact began with Spanish visits in 1567, and by 1763, only about 80 Indians remained, later moving to Havana. The Second Seminole War (1835-1842) marked a significant period, with the Dade Massacre on December 28, 1835, and the establishment of Fort Lauderdale in March 1838 by Major William Lauderdale, as detailed in the Historic Preservation Board History.
Post-war, Seminoles dominated for 50 years, with the first non-Indian settlers arriving in the late 19th century, such as Washington Jenkins in 1876. The arrival of the Florida East Coast Railroad in 1896 and the drainage initiatives under Governor Broward catalyzed development, leading to population booms in the 1920s and post-World War II periods. The 1920s saw a population increase from 5,135 in 1920 to 14,242 in 1925, driven by developer cities like Hollywood-by-the-Sea, but was interrupted by a hurricane in 1926 and the early onset of the Depression in south Florida.
The following table summarizes key historical population milestones:
|
Year |
Population |
Notes |
|---|---|---|
|
1920 |
5,135 |
Start of significant growth post-railroad. |
|
1925 |
14,242 |
Peak of 1920s boom, developer cities like Hollywood incorporated. |
|
1930 |
20,094 |
Post-hurricane and Depression, growth slowed. |
|
1940 |
39,794 |
World War II bases established, setting stage for future expansion. |
|
1950 |
83,933 |
Beginning of post-war boom, new cities incorporated. |
|
1970 |
620,100 |
Rapid growth, average annual gain of 26,808 from 1950, many new cities. |
This historical trajectory is crucial for understanding the county's urban development, as outlined in the Broward County History.
Notable Cities and Attractions
The county seat, Fort Lauderdale, is a major city known for its canals and beaches, earning the "Venice of America" moniker. Other notable cities include Coral Springs, Pompano Beach, and Hollywood, each contributing to the region's cultural and economic landscape. The county boasts 24 miles of Atlantic beaches, from Hillsboro Beach to Hallandale Beach, and over 300 miles of Intracoastal Waterway and navigable inland canals
Sports Presence
Broward County is home to the Florida Panthers, a National Hockey League (NHL) team based in Sunrise, playing at the Amerant Bank Arena, as noted in Sports Teams in Florida. This presence adds to the county's sports culture, with various minor league teams and college athletic programs also active, such as those overseen by the Broward County Athletic Association, detailed in Broward Schools Athletics.
Transportation and Infrastructure
Transportation is facilitated by the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL), a major regional hub, and the extensive road and rail networks, including the Florida East Coast Railroad, which historically spurred development. The county's infrastructure, including Port Everglades, supports its role as a logistics and tourism center.
Interesting Facts and Trivia
An unexpected detail is Broward County's nickname, "Venice of America," due to its extensive canal system, which spans over 300 miles, making it a yachting capital, as per Visit Lauderdale Fun Facts. Another interesting fact is its historical resilience, having faced a significant hurricane in 1926 that killed 34 in Hollywood and 15 in Fort Lauderdale, yet rebounding to become a major urban center, as detailed in the Historic Preservation Board History.
Conclusion
Broward County, Florida, is a dynamic region with a rich historical tapestry, diverse demographics, and a strong economic base. Its beaches, canals, and proximity to natural wonders like the Everglades, combined with its sports and cultural offerings, make it a significant part of the South Florida landscape. This survey note provides a comprehensive overview, ensuring all facets are covered for a thorough understanding.
Event: IGNITE Broward Art Festival is an annual event in Broward County, Florida, celebrating art and technology. It transforms public spaces into immersive, interactive experiences that engage the community and the work of both local and international artists. In 2025, the festival is scheduled to take place from January 22 to January 26, marking its fourth year.
Key Details About IGNITE Broward 2025:
Locations: The festival spans multiple venues, including:
Esplanade Park in downtown Fort Lauderdale as the central hub.
Arts Park at Young Circle in Hollywood.
The Museum of Discovery and Science in Fort Lauderdale (indoor exhibitions).
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In Collier County, Florida, residents would be directly affected by this potential change. However, no specific …
In the United States, K-12 schools spend about $612.7 billion annually. This is about $12,612 per pupil. Federal, state, and local governments spend about $720.9 billion annually or $14,840 per pupil. The federal government provides 7.7% of funding, state governments provide 46.7%, and local governments provide 45.6%. On average, the U.S. spends $15,908 per pupil on postsecondary education and $33,063 per pupil on graduate and postgraduate education.
The USA Depatment of Educations has 4,400 employees and a buget of $238 billion in 2024.
Simply place a full glass of water inside of your microwave before turning the machine on. Let the microwave operate as steam is generated within the machine. The steam will soften stains which will allow you to quickly and easily wipe the remaining residue away from the surface.
While you can use our website, our app gives a smoother experience and offers you a much better way to interact with HOA Bulletin Board
