State of the City

Celebrating 50 Years of Excellence

The City of Coral Springs continues to set itself apart as a vital, viable place to live, work and raise a family.

Entering our 50th Anniversary year, Coral Springs has successfully managed growth by staying focused on what’s most important

to the community, and preparing our foundation for an even stronger future.

Honoring the promise of our founders, we have dedicated resources toward improving financial security, encouraging educational expansion,

and enhancing community assets that remain among the best in the nation. This was a year the City re-thought, refurbished and reinvigorated itself.

Coral Springs is proud to celebrate 50 years of excellence.

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Fiscal Year 2012, the City of Coral Springs dared to dream. It’s something we do well; in fact, it’s an integral part of our community DNA. To grow from a bean field to one of the largest cities in Broward County took incredible vision and commitment. And we’re not done yet.

As the City’s 2012 “report card,” this annual report highlights just some of the accomplishments made through the joint efforts of the City Commission, City staff, and local residents and businesses. By themselves, these accomplishments show progress on our priorities, and hold us all accountable. Woven together, each of these efforts and programs creates the fabric of our vision. They demonstrate how the dreams of a few can become the reality of a community.

As Coral Springs approaches its 50th Anniversary, we see how this vision has us positioned well for the next 50 years. Our City enjoys fiscal stability, a growing business presence, a safe and beautiful environment we can all take pride in, and excellence in leadership and education.

An ‘A’ Year in Education Coral Springs has made huge strides in educational excellence throughout the community. Our students attend more ‘A’ schools than any other city in Broward County. Recently, Coral Springs Charter School, as well as all of our high schools, received an ‘A’ rating. In addition, all of our middle schools and the majority of our elementary schools also achieved an ‘A’ rat-ing. For a detailed list, turn to page 17.

Restoring our EnvironmentThis year, the City continued to make strides in enhancing our streets, parks and buildings. Nearly every major community park (and many of our smaller neighborhood parks) received a facelift with new landscaping, signage, playground equipment and facilities updates. Money magazine cited our recreational assets when it once again named Coral Springs

among the top 100 “Best Places to Live” in the United States.

In an effort to sharpen our appearance, we completed the Street Tree Program and trimmed hundreds of street trees and planted over 1,185 more. We cleaned 188 miles of sidewalks, curbs and medians; improved streets; and rehabilitated 43 homes. By adding mobile applications and a fleet of Code Ranger volunteers, we improved code violation reporting and code compliance.

Our efforts as environmental stewards, including the addition of water-saving fixtures and single-stream recycling, helped land us a silver award as a “Florida Green Local Government.” And through our public art program, supported by growth in the City, we added new bronze sculptures to North Community and Cypress Parks.

Revitalizing our EconomySpeaking of stewardship, our financial stability was reflected in the City’s AAA bond rating, positive year-end fund balances and a Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting from the Government Finance Officers Association.

We increased business tax receipts 14 percent this year – a solid indication that our City provides a good environment for nurturing commercial opportunities. As for other healthy indicators, the City issued 7,500 building permits, conducted more than 25,000 building inspections, and drew in over $2 million in permit revenue.

Our future business leaders got a boost this year from the establishment of the Broward College Coral Springs Academic Center, which enables citizens to participate in higher education without leaving the City. We also continued a student database outreach program to match employers to local graduating students – and registered 11 businesses and more than 450 residents.

New public art was installed at North Community Park.

A Message from Your City Commission and City Manager

John J.Hearn

Dan Daley

LarryVignola

Vincent M.Boccard

ClaudetteBruck

Tom Powers

ErdalDonmez

City Attorney Commissioner Commissioner Mayor Commissioner Vice Mayor City Manager

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To read about the City’s Business Plan initiatives, visit CoralSprings.org/budget.

Reinvigorating our CommunityThis year, we kept our eyes open wide – and saw a 60 percent decrease in car accidents at key intersections with the Red Light Camera program, and a 29 percent increase in burglary arrests with the Burglary Enforcement & Reduction (BEAR) Task Force. Public safety extended to improved reporting of street light outages, the creation of the Nuisance Abatement Board, and the successful “Make A Call, Make a Difference,” program. One of our neighborhoods, Shadow Wood, even received a third-place award from Neighborhoods USA for its execution of the Crime Watch program.

We opened Fire Station 71 four weeks ahead of schedule – and were recognized by the state as “Fire Academy of the Year” for the second time for our efforts to train firefighters locally, regionally and internationally.

As a community, we had plenty of fun together, with many unique and successful City-led events we’ve come to appreciate over the years: multi-day celebrations around MLK Day, WorldFest, CommuniTea, annual art and car shows, and

more. We initiated a Holiday Fun Run for families as part of the Holiday Parade – a happy, healthy way to kick off the season.

A Caring CommunityAs a nation, we endured innumerable and unspeakable tragedies in 2012. We saw neighbors pull together and

support each other in their need and grief over personal losses. That kind of outreach can’t be legislated, and no City program can accomplish what must come from the heart. But a community as special as Coral Springs was 50 years in the making. We have dedicated volunteers and City staff that spend countless hours in service to our community. Our businesses have made this their

home as much as their vocation.

We look forward to capturing the essence of this spirit in our new branding initiative, which is designed to tell the world about who we are, and invite new visitors, residents and businesses to share in everything that is good about our community.

– The City of Coral Springs

Fire Station 71 opened in August 2012 and features three bays with

state-of-the-art bi-fold doors.

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50th Anniversary PlanningTo prepare for the City’s half-century celebration

the City designed a special logo, launched the interactive CoralSprings50.org website, and developed a multi-tiered

sponsorship package to engage the community. A volunteer 50th Anniversary committee selected

by the City Commission has helped plan a host a year-long festivities celebrating the July 10, 2013 anniversary date.

Closed Captioning City TVCity TV -- one of more than 27 communications vehicles

used to inform, educate and interact with citizens – had largely been inaccessible to hearing-impaired residents.

That changed in June, when the City Commission broadcast included new closed captioning technology.

Additional programming will feature this service to better connect the City and the public it serves.

Web-based Crime ReportingWhen a crime happens in Coral Springs, residents

can now file a report immediately without tying up vital 911 resources. The Online Police Reporting System, accessible

from the City’s website, accepts reports of vandalism, harassing phone calls, identity theft, Petit Theft (under $300), lost or damaged property and other non-emergency crimes.

Citizens receive a case number just as if a report had been filed by a police officer and can print a free copy for their records.

City Hall Security ImprovementsAn Urban Areas Security Initiative grant from Homeland Security has enabled better protection for the City Hall complex. A Police

Department study identified shortcomings in the 1966-era building that originally served as a real estate sales office. To

enhance the safety of employees, volunteers, citizens and visitors, the City has installed secure doors and card access systems, cameras and alarms throughout City Hall North and South.

50Celebrating

of Excellence

1963 2013

50Celebrating

of Excellence

1963 2013

50Celebrating

of Excellence

1963 2013

50Celebrating

of Excellence

1963 2013

City of Coral Springs

50th Anniversary Celebration

9530 West Sample Road • Coral Springs, Florida 33065 • 954-344-1162

CoralSprings50.org

Sponsorship Opportunities

The City Commission meetings now offer closed captioning technology.

Other Accomplishments22 residents graduated from the annual Government Academy,

where they learned about City services in a series of monthly interactive sessions.

Customer-Involved Government

City Marketing PlanThe City launched a marketing effort with branding agency North Star. Following a community survey,

the agency presented findings from the 571 responses to staff and the City Commission, and is working

with a Creative Committee of staff and volunteers to develop a concept and master marketing plan drawn from citizens’ insights. Why “brand” a city?

The benefits of creating a distinctive, recognizable image are far-reaching, affecting the economic

stability of the community. An effective, integrated brand that resonates with stakeholders

can attract and retain residents and businesses, contribute to a stronger economic base

with higher property values, and draw visitors.

Code Enforcement RangersWhether slipping on door hangers, sending out

delinquent Business Tax notifications or working on the street tree or street light programs, the City’s 15 volunteer

Code Rangers are a busy bunch. Cruising the City in converted former police vehicles, they supported code officers by conducting 6,398 code inspections in 2012,

achieving about 53 percent voluntary compliance.

Performance MeasuresFiscal Year 2012 Goal ActualOverall quality rating for City services and programs (Resident Survey) 92% 95%*Overall quality rating for City services by business owners (Business Survey) 92% 95%Number of citizen volunteer hours donated to the City of Coral Springs 42,000 38,943Overall rating of the City in terms of communicating with residents (Resident Survey) 88% 93%*Overall rating of the City in terms of communicating with businesses (Business Survey) 88% 81%Customer service rating by residents (Resident Survey) 90% 94%*Customer service rating by businesses (Business Survey) 90% 97%*Residential Survey was conducted in FY2011 and will be conducted again in FY2013.

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Business DevelopmentThe City’s economic recovery hinges on maintaining a solid commercial and industrial tax base. In partnership with the

Economic Development Foundation (EDF), the City is increasing visibility of business vacancies through a new database using CoStar and foreclosure websites. Presently, 13 businesses that

are part of the Preferred Client Program are receiving assistance, which includes pre-conceptual meetings, pre-submittal

meetings and pre-construction meetings, all of which save the customer time in both the planning and zoning and building

departments. In 2012, 75 other businesses were assisted with financial advice, workforce development assistance, city processes, business planning and retention and expansion.

City Hall in the MallLocated in Coral Square Mall, City Hall in the Mall

is a one-stop shop for Coral Springs’ residents. The satellite office offers passport services, registering an alarm system, applying for a fence and wall permits

and other convenient services. As a result, City Hall in the Mall brings in half a million in revenues annually.

Commercial Façade ProgramWith the help of Community Development Block Grant funds from the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, the City re-established its commercial façade program to help small businesses, particularly along Sample and Wiles Roads, make structural and/or aesthetic changes to their storefronts.

The City has worked with three applicants for this program and architects began designing

for enhanced façades, lighting and signage.

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Performance MeasuresFiscal Year 2012 Goal ActualMaintain AAA Bond Ratings: Moody Aaa, Fitch AAA, S&P AAA AAA AAAResidents’ value rating for city taxes and fees (Resident Survey) 72% 72%*Non-residential value as percent of total taxable value 20% 27.4%*Residential Survey was conducted in FY2011 and will be conducted again in FY2013.

Financial StabilityThe City’s finances were reviewed by the three

major rating agencies and through their suggestions, we were able to maintain our AAA ratings.

The agencies praised us for our overall low debt levels, sound financial operations and for our conservative

debt and financial policies. The City’s financial stability was also reflected in the City’s positive year-end fund balances and a Certificate of Achievement

for Excellence in Financial Reporting from the Government Finance Officers Association.

Enhanced Code Enforcement Lien Reduction

Property owners facing liens and restrictions because of code violations had an opportunity to reduce their debts, as the City continued this initiative to stimulate residential

improvement. This year, original fine amounts of $9.2 million on 120 properties were reduced to $587,415. Since many

of these were foreclosures, the reductions allowed the liens to be lifted, and the houses to be sold and occupied.

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Other AccomplishmentsThe City received $3 million in grants for vital

public safety and infrastructure projects.

FEMA awarded the City for the purchase of health and safety equipment for the Fire Department.

Welcoming New BusinessesBusiness tax receipts increased by 14 percent this year

– a solid indication that our City provides a good environment for nurturing commercial opportunities. In a tough economy,

the City helped national retailers set up shop in the City – Kohl’s, Marshalls, Sports Authority, ULTA and Aldi Supermarket.

Pension ReformThrough pension reform, the City will save

more than $35 million over the next 10 years.

Best Place to LiveMoney magazine recognized

Coral Springs as one of the 100 Best Places to Live in the nation.

This is the second time the City has garnered this title.

Money especially liked our amazing sports facilities

and programs.

The City also received two EMS matching grants from the Department of Health for the purchase of video laryngoscopes and chest compression devices.

$475,000 in cost reductions were realized through improved procurement methods.

Financial Health and Economic Development

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Cambridge Advanced Program at Coral Springs

Charter SchoolIn its first year, the Cambridge Advanced Program of Studies (CAPS) at Coral Springs Charter School enrolled 383 students

from grades 7 through 9. An internationally recognized, pre-university program with a rigorous curriculum,

CAPS affords students the opportunity to earn college credit (exam papers are sent to the University of Cambridge

in England for marking) and a special diploma designation. The program currently focuses on language arts and science, but is expected to expand both in subject matter and scope

to include 10th through 12th grade in future years.

Fire Academy of the YearThe Coral Springs Fire Academy was named “Fire Academy

of the Year” for the second time for our efforts to train firefighters locally, regionally and internationally. In an effort to reach

younger students, the Coral Springs Fire Department launched a pilot program at Coral Springs High for students interested in becoming firefighters or paramedics, in hopes it will lead

to life-saving careers. With hard work and dedication, students who complete the program should be ready to take

the state’s firefighter exam by high school graduation.

Congratulations to our ‘A’SchoolsOur students attend more ‘A’ schools than any other

city in Broward County. Coral Springs has made huge strides in educational excellence throughout

the community. Recently, Coral Springs Charter School, as well as all of our high schools, received an ‘A’ rating. In addition, all of our middle schools and the majority of our elementary schools also achieved an ‘A’ rating.

Coral Park ElementaryCoral Glades High

Coral Springs CharterCoral Springs High

Coral Springs MiddleCountry Hills ElementaryEagle Ridge Elementary

Eagle’s Nest Elementary CharterForest Glen MiddleHunt Elementary

Imagine Charter of BrowardJ.P. Taravella High

Marjory Stoneman Douglas HighPark Springs Elementary

Riverside ElementaryRamblewood MiddleRenaissance Charter

Sawgrass Springs MiddleWestchester Elementary

Other AccomplishmentsIn Fiscal Year 2012, the

Coral Springs Fire Academy trained 3,200 students in 400 classes

from 32 different fire departments.

The City of Coral Springs congratulates the students, teachers, principals and parents of the nineteen schools who received an “A” rating for the 2012 school year, including all five area high schools for the first time.

What’sbetter

than one ?

Nineteen of them.

Coral Park ElementaryCoral Glades High

Coral Springs CharterCoral Springs High

Coral Springs Middle

Country Hills ElementaryEagle Ridge Elementary

Eagle’s Nest Elementary CharterForest Glen MiddleHunt Elementary

Imagine Charter of BrowardJ.P. Taravella High

Marjory Stoneman Douglas HighPark Springs Elementary

Riverside Elementary

Ramblewood MiddleRenaissance Charter

Sawgrass Springs MiddleWestchester Elementary

The nation’s premier community in which to live, work and raise a family. Learn more about our Community of Excellence by visiting CoralSprings.org.

Thanks also to the School Board of Broward County for fostering excellence in education.

Excellence in Education

Performance MeasuresFiscal Year 2012 Goal ActualNumber of students attending courses offered 3,000 1,995 by partnering institutes of higher education

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Broward College Campus in Coral Springs

The University and College Partnership, established in 2005, realized a key goal in 2012: creating a permanent

presence within the City’s Community Redevelopment Area. Broward College leased 19,000 square feet at the northwest corner of Sample Road and University Drive,

and began the process of improving the property to retrofit 12 classrooms and administrative offices. Day and night classes are offered for both degree

and non-degree programs, including courses in general education, business and information technology. This satellite campus is projected to reach at least

5,000 students in the next five years, and is currently registering students.

Career Outreach Project“Come home!” That’s the message the City and

Economic Development Foundation want to send to students who leave the community to attend college.

With a robust student database now in place, the City plans to communicate with participants about the benefits of returning to Coral Springs

to live and work. A website for businesses to recruit potential employees was launched, and has registered nearly 500 job seekers and about a dozen companies.

Students can create password-protected individual accounts where they can post resumes, access job

postings and be visible to local employers.Broward College will

service 5,000 students during the next five years at their new Coral Springs

Academic Center.

Parks RevitalizationAs the City’s oldest and largest park, Mullins has served the community well over 48 years. But its expansion to meet

growing needs has often been ad hoc, rather than designed. An initiative is underway to revitalize its appearance, with

extensive facility and landscaping improvements. Three sports facilities have been demolished and are under construction. Renovations to fields, sand volleyball courts and pathways are completed, and an extensive landscaping and signage program is underway. In addition to sprucing up facilities,

painting and pressure cleaning, the City initiated several major landscaping projects, renovated 11 parks and completed the

design phase of the Royal Palm Blvd. entryway improvements. Other neighborhood and community parks saw improvements,

including Cypress Park, Dede Gilmore and Sandy Ridge Sanctuary. Pride Promoters Park received more than $50,000 of Capital Funds to install fencing around the playground and

newly resurfaced basketball courts, new landscaping and sidewalks to provide a safer, more user-friendly park

for neighbors to enjoy. Lastly, 281 signs were replaced throughout our parks to improve the aesthetics.

Mullins Park is currently being revitalized and will feature three new buildings.

Performance MeasuresFiscal Year 2012 Goal ActualPercent of Code cases brought into voluntary compliance 75% 80%Number of formal and informal neighborhood partnerships 15 15Number of volunteer hours aimed at enhancing the environment 1,500 2,196City Crime Rate (crimes per 100,000 residents, calendar year) 2,530 2,688.8Safety rating in neighborhood (Resident Survey) 92% 95%*Number of trees planted within the City 1,750 1,185*Residential Survey was conducted in FY2011 and will be conducted again in FY2013.

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Neighborhood StabilizationThe City received Federal funding in the third round

of this program to address the problem of abandoned and foreclosed homes in the City. Through the program,

12 low-to-moderate income families purchased homes and five of these have been rehabilitated. Another seven are currently in the home repair process. An additional three low-income families can be assisted though this program

helping to revitalize neighborhoods in the community.

Fire Station 71Fire Station 71, built in 1976, is the second oldest and

second busiest station in Coral Springs. Initially, it was intended to service volunteer firefighters and it was not built with the proper training space or equipment needed today.

The new station, which opened four weeks ahead of schedule, now boasts 7,000 square feet in floor area,

three bays, and state-of-the-art bi-fold doors.

Going GreenIn an effort to be even more environmentally friendly, Public Works installed water saving plumbing fixtures

at 12 City facilities. As part of Broward County’s WaterConservationPays.com, 120 residents benefitted from the low flow toilet rebate program in the City’s

water district. In addition, the City received $1.7 million in grant funds to implement single stream recycling,

which improved recycling participation by 7.5 percent.

Make a Call, Make a DifferenceIn recognition of the outstanding

success of this Police program, the Florida Crime Prevention Association named ”Make a Call,

Make a Difference” the “Outstanding Crime Prevention Program” for 2012. The heavily promoted campaign asks all residents, business owners and City employees to be on the lookout for and immediately notify the Police Department when they observe suspicious activity by calling 954-344-1800.

Since the program’s inception, the Police Department is now receiving 57 percent more calls for suspicious vehicles,

49 percent more call for suspicious persons and 33 percent for suspicious incidents. Several burglary arrests were made as a direct result of citizen calls. The Police Department also

created the Burglary Enforcement and Reduction (BEAR) Unit, which analyzes crime statistics to determine times and

locations where burglaries are likely to occur. By educating residents on crime-prevention tactics

and conducting high visibility patrols in targeted neighborhoods, burglaries have decreased significantly.

Police Online ReportingIn 2012, the Police Department started using RAIDS Online,

a web browser based crime mapping program. This program displays all crime incidents in a timely

manner, while assisting the Police Department address problem areas and better allocate resources. Anonymous

tips can also be submitted at www.raidsonline.com.

Other AccomplishmentsThe City received $1.7 milion in grant funds to purchase

single stream recycling, which will help the City reach its goal of recycling 75% of its solid stream by 2020.

The Coral Springs Police Department’s Communication Center was nationally

accredited – making it the first in Florida.

New bronze statues were placed in North Community and Cypress Parks.

Selected by Florida Green Government as Florida Green Local Government Silver Award

A Linear Park was added on Coral Springs Drive

Neighborhood and Environmental Sustainability

Sports Events and Venues Promotion

With first-class facilities, the City is well-positioned to attract regional and national sports events to our popular sports,

recreational and hospitality venues like Sportsplex, featuring the Aquatic Complex and Tennis Center, as well as the

dog park and Sawgrass Nature Center and Wildlife Hospital. As part of the City’s branding initiative, a new website will

promote existing sports events, such as the nationally televised Kreul Classic, and highlight other community assets, including

the Coral Springs Center for the Arts and Museum of Art.

Aquatic Complex Improvements

Since it first opened in 1990, the Coral Springs Aquatic Complex has hosted national meets and competitions,

drawing thousands of swimmers and spectators. In 2012, we expanded the customer service area due

to the increased demand for program registration, membership and retail sales. Another 700 square feet were added to the Fitness Center and a juice bar and

coffee shop was built as a result of customer feedback. Lastly, the Swim Shop is doubling in size to meet

the increased demand for merchandise.

Holiday Fun RunCall it a re-run. The first event, held in December 2011,

successfully drew 100 runners and secured its place as a staple of the Holiday Parade and a healthy way to kick off the City’s

50th Anniversary. Runners of all ages and abilities got moving and dashed 1.5 miles before Bugs Bunny of The Looney Tunes

and his fellow parade entries floated down Sample Road.

Teen Success DayLearning what it takes to make it in today’s job market gives

teens the confidence to pursue their dreams. At this year’s Teen Success Day, students learned job skills such as preparing for job

interviews, self-confidence, volunteerism and leadership. Job applications from local businesses were also available on site.

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The Coral Springs Aquatic Complex hosts a variety of national and international meets for swimming, diving and water polo.

Other Accomplishments The City received grant funds to help provide

Youth Recreation Scholarships to low-to-moderate income families. Activities include dance,

performing arts, and sports programs.

Youth Development and Family Values

Performance MeasuresFiscal Year 2012 Goal ActualNumber of youths involved in City-sponsored leadership opportunities 2,000 1,446Number of teen volunteer hours donated to the City 20,000 18,473Number of middle school after-school programs offered annually 15 15

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Mentoring Leadership ProgramTo further develop our community’s young leaders, the

City invited middle and high school students involved in a summer 2011 Leadership Mentoring Program to step up again. Students volunteered for additional programs,

including a holiday card project for soldiers and the Holiday Parade. Thirty-three participated in Teen Success Day,

and another 25 in summer 2012 activities.

Teen Political ForumWhat’s your question? Teens were invited to meet their

elected officials and share their interest in the community. Held at the Coral Springs Center for the Arts, approximately 350 high school students interacted with representatives

of local, county and state government in a lively exchange. The Forum has become a successful annual event.

Forever Young Senior NewsletterIn an effort to reach

out to the City’s senior community, staff created

a quarterly newsletter highlighting upcoming events, recipes and City news. The newsletters

are distributed to St. Andrew Towers and are available at Sartory

Senior Center.

Welcome

Senior Spotlight

Welcome to the first edition of Forever Young! We are pleased to announce many

of the upcoming trips, events and news featured in the articles listed. The newslet-

ter will be available on a quarterly basis at the Sartory Senior Center, City Hall, City

Hall in the Mall, with your paid membership to Senior Pride Transportation, and St.

Andrew Towers.

-Jacqueline Holloway

Parks and Recreation Coordinator

Ken Reinhardt

1. How long have you been a resident of Coral

Springs? I moved from Chicago in 1991 and I’ve

been living in Coral Spring for 21 years.

2. What was your profession before you retired? I

worked with manufacturing management before

retiring from GE Engine Services.

3. What are your hobbies and interests? - I enjoy

painting, traveling, serving as an AARP volunteer

advocate, and playing in a banjo band.

4. What is on your bucket list? - Don’t kick the bucket!

5. Where did you grow up? I grew up in Syracuse, NY where I attended

a U.S. Naval Academy.

News a

nd inform

ation for C

oral Springs Seniors

In this issue:

- Senior Spotlight

- Driver Safety Class

- Senior Health Fair

- Get rid of white flies

- Spinach and Rice

Casserole Recipe

- Special Events

Senior Newsletter

Committee:- Florence Killoran

- Nancy Arena

- Anna Gattuso

- Ken Reinhardt

- Patrick Doyle

If you have any ideas

or comments, please

contact us!Jacqueline Holloway at

pkjkg@coralsprings.org.

Sartory Senior Center

- 10150 N.W 29 St.

- 954-345-2203

- coralsprings.org/senior

programs

Fall 2012

Hundreds of students attended the Teen Political Forum.

International Dinner DanceIn the 15 years since its inception, the International Dinner

Dance has become more than just a symbol of Coral Springs’ growing diversity. It is one of the City’s most popular

events, supported since 2009 with local sponsorships and fundraising. This year, more than 400 tickets were sold. While all

backgrounds and ethnicities are celebrated, Jamaica and the islands of Trinidad and Tobago were highlighted, as both are

enjoying their 50th Anniversaries of Independence.

Martin Luther King, Jr. Program Enhancements

The 22nd Annual Martin Luther King (MLK) celebration featured keynote speaker Willie Gary, a trial lawyer and humanitarian

from Stuart, Florida. In addition to the business luncheon and evening community celebration, the program included

a Leadership/Diversity Day for students. In a nod to the generous spirit of the man himself, the MLK Committee

awarded 13 scholarships to deserving high school seniors for their freshman year in college. With the Coral Springs

Community Chest as the major donor, the MLK Committee was able to match their contribution, as well as supplement

the fund with donations from the community and businesses.

Performance MeasuresFiscal Year 2012 Goal ActualMinority residents who feel that the City is a great place to live (Resident Survey) 89% 98%*Citizen rating of City Government for respecting religious and ethnic diversity (Resident Survey) 93% 98%* *Residential Survey was conducted in FY2011 and will be conducted again in FY2013.

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MLK, Jr. Celebration

WorldFest

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Visioning Summit UpdateMore than 100 participants, from diverse backgrounds and

experiences, gathered in April to review how the vision expressed in 2004 for the City’s future had progressed.

They were invited to “Just Dream It!” and develop a fresh look at the City in the coming 10 to 15 years. With 25 City staff

members and City Commissioners acting as observers and advisors, and futurist Glen Hiemstra providing a glimpse into

how our tomorrows affect us, the meet-up touched on nearly every aspect of Coral Springs life: arts and culture, business,

education, environment, government, healthcare, non-profit, public safety, recreation, religious groups and seniors

and youth populations. Not surprisingly, their view of the ideal community remains similar and is reflected in the City’s

commitment to seven key priorities. The 2012 “dreams” will be used during the 2013 Strategic Planning Update.

Participants representing all facets of the Coral Springs community met to develop a vision for Coral Springs in the next 10 years.

WorldFestThe City’s annual WorldFest, which featured an array

of multi-cultural entertainment, cuisine and culture, drew hundreds of spectators to the Sportsplex. This wonderful

event highlights Coral Springs’ diverse population.

Leadership Diversity ProgramsMany of our programs, including our Martin Luther King, Jr.

events and UniTown, offer students an opportunity to develop their leadership skills and instill an interest in the importance

of volunteering in school and throughout the community.

“Community of Respect”The Anti-Defamation League designated Coral Springs

as a “Community of Respect.” This innovative community-wide anti-bias initiative provides the tools and resources

to help organizations fight prejudice, bigotry, discrimination and engender respect and appreciation for diversity.

Strength in Diversity

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Street Lighting ImprovementsWhen residents in nine out of 30 surveyed areas

of the City expressed dissatisfaction with street lighting, the City moved swiftly to get them out of the dark.

Trees were pruned to allow more light to shine through, and almost 750 street lights were replaced due

to enhanced outage reporting with more staff patrols.

“Ben Geiger Drive”In memory of Otis “Ben” Geiger, who served 16 years as

Mayor, Vice Mayor and Commissioner, the City Commission approved the name change to one of the City’s most important

throughways, NW 29th Street. The street runs alongside the Center for the Arts and Coral Springs Museum of Art,

home of the Peace Garden and the site of stunning public art.

Red Light and Security Cameras Implementation

Drivers at five of the City’s major intersections are heeding the call to stop when the light turns red. With seven active cameras,

accidents have dropped 17 percent year-over-year. Violations and fine revenues have also declined, indicating a change in driver behavior. In an ongoing effort to make roadways safer, the City Manager’s Office and members of the Police

Department are exploring expanding the program to include other intersections and looking at technology options

that could further improve accuracy.

Westview Turn LaneVisitors to North Community Park no longer hold up others

in the travel lane when attempting to enter on Westview Drive. A new turn lane allows them to stack up out of the way, enhancing traffic flow and safety.

Other Accomplishments

Work to repair, resurface and re-stripe the master parking lots on Sample Road will

enhance storefront safety and aesthetics.

Construction of the Downtown Pathway along Ben Geiger Drive continues and will improve access

to local social service agencies, schools, churches and medical facilities, while also enhancing

the aesthetic quality of life for residents.

Traffic, Mobility and Connectivity

Performance MeasuresFiscal Year 2012 Goal ActualNumber of linear feet of improved sidewalks, bike paths and bike lanes 2,500 6,179Number of riders on intracity bus routes 100,000 97,060

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Street Indexing SignsMotorists looking for commercial businesses have been

helped by a total of 59 signs that have been installed along the University Drive, Sample Road and Wiles Road parking corridors.

A Walkable, Bikeable CityTo promote a more walkable, bikeable City, staff installed asphalt new concrete sidewalks, improved drainage and

resurfaced Northwest 85th Avenue between Sample Road and Forest Hills Boulevard. Also, staff completed the design

for new sidewalks and drainage improvements to NW 110th Avenue between Sample and Wiles Roads.

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Five decades. Fifty years. As cities go, ours is barely a blip on the national register of historic places. But Coral Springs has had its own unique journey in time. In 2012, City staff and volunteers launched preparations for a semi-centennial anniversary designed to honor our heritage

and celebrate our future. We’re planning a year-long party, and you’re invited!

Something for EveryoneWe’re a diverse community, so count on a wide range of activities to give everyone a chance to celebrate

in the way they most enjoy. From floats to festivals, the calendar is filling up with 50th Anniversary Signature Events. We kicked off the series with the Holiday Parade and Fun Run in December, followed by the BizArt Festival and State of the City in January. We have planned sure-to-be memorable events through the remainder of the year.

Residents may visit the Anniversary web site, CoralSprings50.org, for regular updates on upcoming activities. The web site is one of many communications vehicles created by the City to engage residents and businesses in the celebration.

A View to HistoryIf you were not one of Coral Springs’ pioneers – and, given the rustic state of the “city in the country,” that’s probably not

an inaccurate description – then you will enjoy the collection of historical photos and fun facts found in the calendar issued by the Historical Advisory Committee and on the City’s web site at CoralSprings.org/history.

Did you know, for example, that our beautiful Coral Springs Center for the Arts began life as a basketball court? Or that, in the 1960s, no roads led to Coral Springs except Wiles Road, forcing residents to travel a convoluted route for gas and

groceries? Or that we might have been named after a fish, if founding planners from Coral Ridge Properties had prevailed?

If you were an early resident, you can share your stories and photos about life in the “last piece of gold on the Gold Coast” on our Anniversary web site.

Also, the official City of Coral Springs Facebook page features an interactive timeline of historical events dating back to 1963.

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The Journey to ExcellenceIt started with a covered bridge, a symbol of the “old South” master developer Coral Ridge Properties

used as a centerpiece to successfully create a 20th century marketing version of the land rush. But when Westinghouse Electric Company took over in 1966, the image of Coral Springs shifted from old to new.

On the heels of the 1960s animated space-age cartoon, The Jetsons, the company set out to create an urban prototype for the future, including homes with mission-control electric conveniences that “ran” the house.

It was a distinctive positioning that set the City apart from other growing South Florida communities.

The original founders did more than market the town, though. They created a master plan that set aside ample areas for schools and parks before any building was ever constructed.

They laid the foundation for a desirable, aesthetically-pleasing destination for families and businesses.

We still treasure our covered bridge, but this year, the City launched an initiative to create the next incarnation of our “brand.” Unlike the first versions crafted by developers, we are gathering the input of residents and business alike to capture the unique

characteristics that have made – and continue to make – Coral Springs a premier community of excellence.

Visit CoralSprings50.org for more 50th Anniversary

upcoming events and to share your Coral Springs stories and photos!

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The City of Coral Springs welcomes and encourages citizen involvement. In fact, the City relies on input from our residents to develop Business Plan initiatives for this coming year and to continually improve

the services we provide. Citizens have a number of opportunities to become involved in their City government. Citizens may choose the larger, ongoing time commitment of serving on an advisory board or

committee, or they may wish to occasionally volunteer their time to City departments and events.

Additionally, residents can also get involved by attending their Slice of the Springs Neighborhood Meetings and regular City Commission meetings. Citizens may also easily offer concerns

and advice through the online City Help Desk at CoralSprings.org/help.

Special appreciation goes to all our dedicated volunteers and members of our boards, committees and the following community groups:

50th Anniversary CommitteeAffordable Housing Committee

Architectural Review CommitteeBoard of Adjustment

Charter School Advisory BoardCode Rangers

Community Assisted PatrolCommunity Emergency Response Team

Community GardenCommunity Redevelopment Agency

Construction Review CommitteeCoral Springs Chamber of Commerce

Coral Springs Community ChestCouncil of Executive Officers

Crime Scene Volunteer ProgramCustomer-Involved Government Committee

Economic Development FoundationEnterprise Coral SpringsFinancial Advisory Board

Fire Pension BoardFriends of the Museum of Art

General Employees Pension BoardHistorical Advisory Committee

Holiday Parade CommitteeMartin Luther King, Jr. Committee

Multi-Cultural Advisory CommitteeMuseum of Art Board of Directors

National Day of Prayer and Peace Committee

Neighborhood and Environmental CommitteeNuisance Abatement Board

Parent Education Advisory CommitteePlanning and Zoning Board

Police Pension BoardPolice Reserve Officer Corps

Principal Advisory CommitteeProjectCS Teen Car ClubPublic Art Committee

Sawgrass Nature Center and Wildlife Hospital

Senior Advisory CommitteeSports Coalition

Sports CommissionTeen Political Forum Committee

Unsafe Structures BoardWorldFest Committee

Youth and Family Advisory Committee

Getting Involved

City Officials and Executive StaffAll of these accomplishments could not have been possible without the City’s dedicated staff and department directors.

A special thanks to everyone involved in making these initiatives a reality.

City CommissionMayor Vincent M. Boccard

Vice Mayor Tom Powers Commissioner Claudette Bruck

Commissioner Dan DaleyCommissioner Larry Vignola

Senior Management TeamErdal Dönmez, City Manager

Susan Grant, Deputy City ManagerRoberto Hernandez, Deputy City Manager

John Hearn, City AttorneyJosephine Chavez, City Clerk

Mark Curran, Fire ChiefRick Engle, Director of Parks and Recreation

Robert Goehrig, Director of Budget, Strategy and CommunicationsMelissa Heller, Director of Finance

Susan Hess, Director of Development Services Curlie Matthews, Director of Information Services

Mike McGoun, Director of Aquatic ServicesTom Messenheimer, Executive Director of Sportsplex

Rich Michaud, Director of Public WorksDale Pazdra, Director of Human Resources

Tony Pustizzi, Chief of Police

9551 West Sample RoadCoral Springs, Florida 33065

CoralSprings.org • 954-344-1000