Lauderhill: $150 PFAS payment for seniors; city says about $800,000 received, balance earmarked for water‑plant upgrades

At its Aug. 25 meeting, the Lauderhill City Commission heard public questions about how PFAS settlement money was being distributed to residents.

May Smith, a resident, asked the commission for clarity on the dollar amounts and who is eligible. “If the county sent over more money and we're entitled to more than this $150, I would like to know that,” Smith said during public comment.

City Manager Kenny Hobbs told the commission the city did not receive additional funds from Broward County for annexed areas and that settlement dollars “came straight through…through the litigation.” Hobbs said, “we've received about $800,000. The balance of those dollars will go for water plant upgrades to our water plant.” He added that the city is testing and currently in compliance for PFAS.

Hobbs described how payments will be distributed: city residents who receive water from the city will receive a credit; residents outside city water service will receive a $150 direct check. The city has limited eligibility for the $150 payment to seniors age 55 and older, he said, explaining the decision was intended to provide targeted assistance to older residents.

The city attorney had no additional comment during the response. Hobbs invited further follow‑up and indicated staff can provide records showing the amounts received and planned allocations.

City officials did not adopt any new policy or ordinance at the meeting regarding PFAS funds; the discussion was informational and a response to public comment.

Outgoing steps: the city manager agreed to provide additional documentation on the settlement receipts and distribution plan on request.