The Tamarac City Commission opened its April 23 meeting with two recognitions: a proclamation declaring April 2025 World Autism Acceptance Month and a plaque presentation marking the city’s autism‑inclusive designation in Broward County.

Acting Parks and Recreation Director Melissa Petrone introduced the presenters from HAPPI (Happy and Prosperous Program Initiative), including Larry Rothman and Maria Jacobo, who described outreach, training and employment‑focused efforts for autistic residents. Speakers cited Centers for Disease Control estimates and local population numbers used to convey scale; HAPPI representatives emphasized employment and entrepreneurship programs and partnerships with local organizations and universities.

The commission also recognized Tamarac Fire Rescue: Fire Chief Anisio and command staff accepted a plaque noting that Tamarac Fire Rescue is 1 of a small number of departments nationwide to earn full accreditation from the Center for Public Safety Excellence and to hold an ISO Class 1 rating. Chief Anisio credited a multi‑year, cross‑departmental effort, naming staff and past chiefs who contributed to the work.

Why it matters: The autism‑friendly designation signals the city’s commitment to training, access and inclusion measures for autistic residents and was accompanied by staff and partner commitments to continue outreach. Full accreditation and an ISO Class 1 rating are external recognitions of fire‑service standards and typically reflect training, response, water supply and systemwide readiness.

Next steps: Parks and Recreation staff and HAPPI representatives said they will continue training, awareness events and partnership programs. Fire Rescue will proceed with implementation steps linked to accreditation maintenance and any public safety reporting required by the accrediting body.