Strengthening Fort Lauderdale: No More Excuses on Homelessness

Fort Lauderdale is stepping up to tackle the homelessness issue head-on. We’re committed to reclaiming our streets and ensuring the safety and well-being of our community. While we believe in offering help to those who need it, we’re no longer tolerating behavior that jeopardizes public safety or quality of life. The City Commission and I are rolling out stronger measures to confront the safety challenges linked to homelessness. We’re balancing compassion with the firm actions necessary to protect our city. An assistant city manager is leading a new, aggressive strategy to address homelessness across Fort Lauderdale. This comprehensive plan involves all city departments working together under a unified command. With the new state law cracking down on public encampments, we’re moving fast to stay ahead of the curve. Here’s how we’re taking action:

• Increased Patrols: We’re deploying more officers to high-risk areas, and it’s already making a difference in curbing dangerous activities.
• Mobile Healthcare Support: Our Fire Department and paramedics are on standby, ready to back up our officers and provide immediate care when needed.
• Street Safety Ordinance: We’re enforcing a new law that bans individuals from blocking our streets and causing traffic disruptions.
• Enhanced Housing Navigation: We’re doubling down on our Housing Navigation Program, which last year saw a 65% success rate in getting people off the streets and into stable housing.
• Temporary Shelter Initiative: We’re funding a new program to offer up to 60 days of shelter for those in need while they secure permanent housing.
• Community Court Program: Our innovative court program continues to offer homeless individuals charged with minor offenses a path to temporary housing and essential services like substance abuse treatment and job training.
• Interagency Collaboration: We’re intensifying our partnerships across government and agencies to more effectively protect our community and reduce repeat offenses.

We’re leading with a balanced approach—offering necessary resources to those willing to seek help while taking decisive action to ensure the safety and security of Fort Lauderdale. It’s time to restore order, protect our public spaces, and uphold the standards of our community. Let’s keep Fort Lauderdale safe and thriving. Dean