Board asks staff to invite CDBG‑DR program director as FEMA allocations and Fortify projects loom

Board members asked staff to invite Rachel Williams, the program director associated with Community Development Block Grant—Disaster Recovery (CDBG‑DR) funds, to the June 1 meeting to explain FEMA action-plan allocations and how roughly $88 million (figure cited by members) might be allocated to infrastructure and resilience projects.

Members discussed the program’s eligibility rules and noted that some projects previously proposed for stormwater funding did not meet income thresholds and so were ineligible. One member suggested resilience investments such as stormwater gardens or water-retention projects that reduce runoff as examples of priorities that fit FEMA and HUD resilience objectives.

Separately, staff briefed the board that the commission agenda includes a discussion of bond financing and two unsolicited proposals for remaining Fortify Fort Lauderdale phase‑one projects (Melrose and Riverland). Staff outlined procurement options: accept the unsolicited proposals (which would require readings and public meetings) or open a competitive solicitation (minimum 21 days). The board was advised that bonding would enable construction financing shortly after commission action.

The board asked staff to coordinate Rachel Williams or a representative to present at the June 1 meeting so members can weigh funding priorities and interagency coordination.