The Budget Advisory Board Meeting held on July 16, 2025, in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, focused on significant changes in the city's organizational structure and budget planning for upcoming fiscal years. The meeting highlighted the city's commitment to advancing capital projects and improving collaboration among departments, particularly in addressing homelessness and community development.

City Manager Matthew outlined the city's ambitious capital projects, totaling over $2 billion, and emphasized the importance of a dedicated capital projects team to expedite the implementation of these initiatives. A key focus was on the Parks Bond projects, which are now entering the implementation phase, ensuring that team members receive the necessary support to advance these projects efficiently.

The meeting also addressed the restructuring of the city's approach to homelessness services. Previously managed separately, the homelessness services team will now work closely with the housing and community development team to enhance collaboration and effectiveness. This integration aims to streamline efforts and improve outcomes for the community.

Board members expressed support for the fresh approach introduced by the city manager, noting the potential for improved performance metrics and accountability across departments. The discussion included the need for new success criteria and performance appraisals for leadership, ensuring that the city can measure progress effectively.

In terms of budget considerations, the city manager indicated that the current budget proposes several capital projects, with a focus on advancing initiatives to mitigate potential financial challenges anticipated in fiscal year 2027. The board discussed the importance of identifying revenue-generating opportunities and the potential for budget cuts or savings.

The meeting concluded with an assurance that no layoffs are planned as part of the budget realignment. Existing leaders within the departments will be given opportunities to step into new roles, while some positions may be advertised externally to attract new talent.

Overall, the meeting underscored Fort Lauderdale's proactive approach to budget management and organizational efficiency, setting the stage for a collaborative and effective governance model moving forward.