LOOKING AHEAD TO THIS WEEK

Frank Ortis, mayor, Pembroke Pines

Our local governments could lose at least $654 million if Amendment 1 is passed this November. The amendment, which provides an additional homestead exemption of up to $25,000, except for school taxes, on homes valued above $100,000, is basically a tax shift that puts a tax burden on renters, snowbirds, small businesses and other commercial property owners. I urge residents to vote no on this amendment. It’s not a real tax break, only benefits a handful of homeowners, and is not what it seems.

Anthony Abbate, associate provost, Florida Atlantic University, Broward

In the weeks ahead follow news about the impacts of global warming: locally, nationally and internationally. This issue will not go away, nor will it diminish over time. The difference between a temperature rise of 1.5OC and 2.0OC above pre-industrial levels is crucial, not just for us here in South Florida adapting to rising seas, but to food supply, health, poverty. Scientists are highly confident in their climate projections and the impacts due to improved data collection over the last several years. There is so much we can do - we just need to set our minds to take action!

Howard Simon, executive director, ACLU

of Florida

The country has its eyes Florida -- because in next month’s election voters have an historic opportunity to end a 150-year-old injustice that has prevented people from participating in elections even though they paid their debt to society by completing all the terms of their sentence, in some cases years and decades ago. The Governor has defended the current cumbersome and expensive process for restoring voting rights, but that process is not needed if offenders are required to work hard to complete the sentence a judge has imposed and, thereby earn their way back into the community.

Paul Castronovo, host, Paul Castronovo

Show on Big 105.9

“Hello Sunny” is dead? The upbeat and friendly slogan that just “screamed” Ft. Lauderdale is going the way of “Summers on the Beach”, “Jordan Marsh” and “Crocs”. So now that Ft. Lauderdale is more than just a sunny beach town, it’s time to upgrade the cities slogan to reflect what Ft. Lauderdale has become. We really have grown into a world class vacation destination with killer restaurants, high end shopping and amazing cultural activities. I’m thinking we can’t use “Hello Blue Algae” and “The Red Tide Won’t be Here Forever”, so if you have any better ideas, let me know.

Barbara Sharief, member, Broward County Commission

Broward County’s Airport (FLL) launched CLEAR, a biometrics technology platform on Wednesday, October 10, 2018 in Terminal 2. CLEAR uses Biometrics–your eyes and fingertips to confirm its really you. These distinct characteristics are the most accurate forms of ID. CLEAR matches your fingerprints and irises to your unique code every time you check in. Annual membership costs $179 for individuals. Add up to 3 family members for $50/each per year. Children under 18 can use the CLEAR Lane for free when accompanied by a CLEAR family member. No enrollment is required for the child. For more info: www.clearme.com

Thomas Wenski, archbishop, Archdiocese

of Miami

I’m recently back from a quick trip to Haiti where many people are filled with foreboding. October 17 is a national holiday commemorating the assassination of Jean Jacques Dessalines in 1806. A founding father of the Haitian nation he was betrayed and killed as a result of the zero sum game of politics that has marred so much of Haiti’s history. Stunned and frightened by last weekend’s relatively mild earthquake in Haiti’s northwest, many fear that with the October 17th holiday announced protests of the nation’s Parliment will end up in a repeat of the mid-July violence.

John “Jack” P. Seiler, former mayor, Fort

Lauderdale

As Fort Lauderdale starts its search to replace outgoing City Manager Lee Feldman, our community needs to express our admiration and appreciation for the outstanding job done by Lee over the last 8 years. Lee is a true local government professional who was dedicated to creating and supporting a thriving Fort Lauderdale. Through hard work, exemplary leadership, progressive management, constant innovation, and high ethical standards, Lee elevated the City on the national and international stage; contributed greatly to the growth, progress, and prosperity of our region; improved the lives of thousands of our neighbors and visitors; and, truly built community! Thanks, Lee, for your extraordinary service and leadership.

Nan Rich, member, Broward County

commission

Amendment 5 is the worst amendment proposed by the Florida Legislature! If passed, a two-thirds vote of both the Florida House and Senate would be required to approve any new or increased taxes or fees, unfairly shifting revenue raising to local governments. Amendment 5 would thwart investment in programs and services that are already extremely underfunded: public education, healthcare, affordable housing, community care for the elderly, and the environment. Investing in our communities, not further reducing sorely-needed income, is the key to helping Florida’s families and businesses thrive. Anyone who cares about Florida should vote NO on 5!