Mayor Gomez Discusses Tamarac Events, COVID-19, and Safety in July Message

Mayor Michelle J. Gomez

From: Mayor Michelle J. Gomez

Last month was filled with incredible displays of unity and kindness within our community. Thank you to everyone who joined us at City Hall and from your homes for the Moment of Reflection and Candlelight Vigil on June 18.

Recent events have inspired meaningful and productive discussions supporting the development of positive reforms to ensure equality, safety, and peace for everyone.

 You’re invited to the BSO Tamarac Virtual Townhall with Broward Sheriff Gregory Tony and BSO Tamarac District Captain Jeffrey Cirminiello on Tuesday, July 7. The meeting will stream on Facebook Live from 5:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at Facebook.com/BrowardSheriffsOffice and offer participants the chance to ask the Sheriff and Captain questions.

Since we won’t be celebrating with our traditional 4th of July concert and fireworks show due to COVID-19, Tamarac Parks and Recreation has planned another way to show off our patriotic spirit. This year, residents can participate in the first-ever Patriotic Front Yard Decorating Contest to celebrate Independence Day! For entry and prize details, please visit https://www.facebook.com/TamaracParks/. Please be aware that all City parks will be closed to the public on July 4, but the good news is our pool will reopen (with restrictions/limited timeframes) on July 6.

 Although many of us enjoy an excellent (legal and safe) fireworks display, not everyone feels the same way. For many of our Veterans with PTSD, neighbors with special medical conditions, household pets, and local wildlife, fireworks, and firecrackers cause significant stress. We ask that you are mindful of this when you celebrate, and also to continue following social distancing and facial covering guidelines when gathering with friends and family. Thank you for helping keep everyone safe. Happy Birthday, U.S.A.!

As the number of positive COVID-19 cases continues to rise, businesses remain responsible for protecting their customers and staff. Broward County Emergency Order 20-18 ensures establishments adhere to all the appropriate guidelines mandating sanitization, social distancing, facial coverings, and other requirements to mitigate the spread of the virus. Your cooperation will ensure businesses stay open and that our community is safe.

COVID-19 testing is available to residents and non-residents on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays at the Tamarac Recreation Center, located at 7501 North University Drive until July 31. You must wear a mask and have a form of ID with you to be tested. You can contact them at (954) 412-7300, walk-up only.

If you are a Tamarac resident struggling to pay essential bills due to the impact of COVID-19, we encourage you to enroll in our Residential Assistance Program available until July 6. The program provides a grant to qualified applicants for up to three months of assistance, not to exceed $5,000. Visit tamarac.org/367 or call (954) 597-3549 for more information. Information on Business Assistance is coming soon.

In this stressful climate, we encourage you to take care of your mental health. Connect with friends and family, and make sure you rest and exercise. If you need additional support, please seek a mental health professional. cdc.gov/coronavirus

Public Safety Notice – Please remember that City employees will never ask to come into your home, nor will utility companies appear for unscheduled visits in your home. If you see someone that seems suspicious, call that utility company to verify any scheduled work. For City matters, call (954) 597-3700. If you are concerned about your safety, please dial 911. You don’t have to let anyone in your home!

Also, please stay vigilant of those trying to scam you through email, text, or phone calls. If you suspect a scam, contact the Broward Sheriff’s Office at their non-emergency line (954) 764-4357.

 Happy July 4th, Everyone!

Michelle