Tamarac Commissioner Krystal Patterson hosted the inaugural “Connect with Your Commissioner” event at Kings Point on Monday, providing residents in District 3 with updates on community initiatives. At the same time, faced criticism regarding public participation changes at city meetings.
Patterson opened the event by introducing a new financial assistance program she had spearheaded, funded by developer contributions. The initiative, aimed at assisting residents with housing expenses, offers up to $1,000 per household for mortgage payments, rent, condo fees, assessments, HOA fees, and utility bills.
“These are not taxpayer dollars, but developer dollars, and I am more than happy to share them with you so you can pay a bill and have a little extra money in your pocket,” Patterson stated. “There is no income requirement. All you need to do is complete an application, provide a statement showing the amount due, and submit a W-9 form from the vendor.”
Patterson emphasized that priority would be given to seniors and public service workers residing in the district. Staff members were present at the event to assist attendees with processing applications on-site. Residents unable to complete their applications that day were encouraged to attend a follow-up event at the Tamarac Community Center.
However, as the discussion shifted, several attendees voiced strong opposition to a controversial change in the public comment structure at city commission meetings.
Joe Morguess, a Kings Point resident, criticized Patterson’s role in moving public comment to the end of meetings.
“You kept this quiet during your campaign and ambushed us. It was dishonest and without integrity. Now, your name here at Kings Point and elsewhere is linked with censorship. Fix it.”
Patterson responded, acknowledging the concerns while defending the change as an effort to improve efficiency.
“The first thing I questioned when I joined the commission was why the community couldn’t speak at workshops or on first readings of ordinances,” she said. “I pushed to allow public comment at workshops and on first readings, which were previously closed to public input. The adjustment to public participation was made to ensure residents could comment on agenda items before votes were cast.”
Many residents remained unconvinced, arguing that the restructuring placed undue hardship on seniors who could not voice their concerns late into the night.
“We are the only city in Broward County that doesn’t have public participation at the beginning of meetings. You are stifling our voices,” Morguess said, adding that they’ve always had public comment before the meetings –until she was elected.
“We heard your explanation,” said Morguess. “[Your explanation at the] commission meeting was empty, and it’s empty now. You are stifling our voices. These seniors cannot stay up until midnight and then comment. Let the other people speak and invite them to speak. If you really want to hear them, invite them.”
Despite the tension, Patterson expressed her willingness to revisit the decision. “I hear you,” she said. “Change isn’t always comfortable, but I’m open to reconsidering. I encourage all of you to reach out to me directly.”
As the meeting concluded, Patterson reiterated her commitment to serving the district. “I recognize that not everyone is going to like me or support me, but I am always open to conversations. I encourage you to spend time with me, share your thoughts, and let’s work together.”
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