New City Hall

Described his laborers' apprenticeship program (Local 1652) and the free training it offers residents who could work on city projects.

A 17-year laborer and Local 1652 member urged the city to build City Hall with local hands.

Spoke for local residents who want to participate in building the new City Hall and see jobs stay in the community.

The managing partner of FTL City Hall Partners and president of CORE Construction presented the workers behind the project and thanked city staff.

A community activist who spoke in favor of the project, calling the design beautiful and the partnership a good one.

A commercial real estate professional who argued a purpose-built city hall is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and that no one else will buy the alternative buildings.

Spoke in support, saying the project will benefit the community, especially the African American community.

The Westside Gazette publisher urged the commission to move forward, citing the reduced $217 million cost and the comparison showing renovations cost as much as building new.

Asked the commission to defer the City Hall decision until after November's property tax vote, citing a projected $27 million budget deficit and nearly $1 billion in 30-year costs.

A retired Fort Lauderdale High teacher who spoke about native residents priced out of the city and his rising property tax escrow.

Representing construction laborers, he urged approval so local workers can access good-paying jobs on the project.

The West Side Gazette publisher credited Commissioner Beasley-Pittman's earlier deferral with producing a much better deal for the city.

Urged the commission to do due diligence on buying two existing buildings whose owners are willing to sell, before committing to a new city hall — 'public engagement requires informed leadership.'