Tamarac City Commission approves changes to plat approval and announces water rate increases

The Tamarac City Commission held a workshop on August 25, 2025, addressing several key issues that will impact the community. A significant focus of the meeting was the implementation of changes mandated by Senate Bill 784, which alters the process for plat and replat approvals in the city. This new legislation requires that these approvals be handled administratively by the Director of Community Development, eliminating the need for public hearings. This change aims to streamline the approval process, reducing delays and increasing efficiency for developers and the city alike.

In addition to the changes in platting procedures, the commission discussed amendments to the Code of Ordinances regarding pre-application neighborhood meetings. These amendments are designed to enhance public participation in the development process. Developers will now be required to provide more comprehensive notifications to residents, ensuring that community members are well-informed about upcoming projects. The meetings will remain open to the public, and developers must record these sessions and submit summaries to city staff before any public hearings can be scheduled.

Another important topic was the adjustment of water and sewer rates. The commission approved a resolution to increase water rates by 15% and sewer rates by 5%. This decision follows a revenue sufficiency analysis conducted in 2024, which indicated the need for gradual rate increases over the next decade. Despite the increase, Tamarac will still maintain one of the lowest water and sewer rates in Broward County, ensuring that residents continue to receive affordable utility services.

The meeting concluded with discussions on repealing the privatization committee and other administrative updates, all aimed at improving city governance and community engagement. These decisions reflect the city’s commitment to transparency and responsiveness to resident needs, setting the stage for future developments in Tamarac.