Minutes of the CPCA General Meeting Feb 25, 2025. Called to order at 6:35 pm.Board members in attendance: > Pat Rathburn, President > Jarrod Gaylis, Vice President > Carlos Lang, Treasurer > Rhonda Kramer, Director at Large > Michelle Dimaria, Director at Large > Stacey Miscisin, Director at Large > John Marangio, Secretary Minutes from the January 25, 2025, meeting were approved. FLPD Officers Jackson and Trujillo with Crime Report: -1 larceny bike and scooter. -Auto break-in through trunk of car. -Question about updates on shooting on 3rd Ave.; officers had nothing to report, and the case remains open. Guest Speaker: District 4 Commissioner Ben Sorenson. Accompanied by Vicky and Sabrina, colleagues from the commission office. Question from Pat regarding building codes for new high rises: Ben responded, "LIVE LOCAL." A new law passed by the Governor allows any new building to match the height of any building within a mile. Ben reported that Fort Lauderdale downtown has NO height limit if approved by the FAA. A new building of over 600 feet in height was recently approved. Ben proposed a height limitation for new construction in the downtown area, which he plans to explore. Under the LIVE LOCAL legislation, at least 40% of new construction must be affordable housing. Pat added that two projects are planned through the South RAC Regional Activity Center in and around our local neighborhood. Ben plans to fight against these aggressive growth plans and find a way to regulate vacation rentals more tightly. The audience asked what Ben plans to present to leaders in Tallahassee: He stated a few changes to lower building heights. He mentioned concerns around additional cars, traffic, and congestion. Suggestions about adding requirements to construction companies to improve infrastructure. Ben discussed sewage and other capacity studies that are required for new construction. The audience asked what is planned to address road issues and potholes. Ben provided his cell number
Monday, March 3, 2025
Minutes of the Croissant Park Civic Association neighborhood meeting - February 25th, 2025
Minutes of the CPCA General Meeting Feb 25, 2025. Called to order at 6:35 pm.Board members in attendance: > Pat Rathburn, President > Jarrod Gaylis, Vice President > Carlos Lang, Treasurer > Rhonda Kramer, Director at Large > Michelle Dimaria, Director at Large > Stacey Miscisin, Director at Large > John Marangio, Secretary Minutes from the January 25, 2025, meeting were approved. FLPD Officers Jackson and Trujillo with Crime Report: -1 larceny bike and scooter. -Auto break-in through trunk of car. -Question about updates on shooting on 3rd Ave.; officers had nothing to report, and the case remains open. Guest Speaker: District 4 Commissioner Ben Sorenson. Accompanied by Vicky and Sabrina, colleagues from the commission office. Question from Pat regarding building codes for new high rises: Ben responded, "LIVE LOCAL." A new law passed by the Governor allows any new building to match the height of any building within a mile. Ben reported that Fort Lauderdale downtown has NO height limit if approved by the FAA. A new building of over 600 feet in height was recently approved. Ben proposed a height limitation for new construction in the downtown area, which he plans to explore. Under the LIVE LOCAL legislation, at least 40% of new construction must be affordable housing. Pat added that two projects are planned through the South RAC Regional Activity Center in and around our local neighborhood. Ben plans to fight against these aggressive growth plans and find a way to regulate vacation rentals more tightly. The audience asked what Ben plans to present to leaders in Tallahassee: He stated a few changes to lower building heights. He mentioned concerns around additional cars, traffic, and congestion. Suggestions about adding requirements to construction companies to improve infrastructure. Ben discussed sewage and other capacity studies that are required for new construction. The audience asked what is planned to address road issues and potholes. Ben provided his cell number
Monday, February 10, 2025
Croissant Park General Meeting January 28, 2025 Minutes
CPCA General Meeting Jan 28, 2025
Called to order at 6:38 pm
2025 Board member introductions:
Pat Rathburn, President
Jarrod Gaylis, Vice President
Carlos Lang, Treasurer
Rhonda Kramer, Director at Large
Michelle Dimaria, Director at Large
Stacey Miscisin, Director at Large
John Marangio, Secretary
Quorum confirmed
The board and general members reviewed and approved minutes from the Oct 2024 meeting.
Police/Crime report presented by Officer Jackson.
6 crimes:
Criminal -tires slashed
Larceny -Amazon package stolen
Residential burglary -break in and squatting
Homicide -still active investigation 1600 block SW 3rd Ave.
Suicide -no details
How to self-report a fender bender/minor accident -Officer Jackson provided handouts with QR codes.
Pat introduced concerns for residents who are exhibiting struggles with self-care.
Officer Jackson suggested accessing the Elderly Abuse website. Police cannot provide mental health care. The new program has an officer assigned to go out to select calls with a mental health component. Officer Jackson will provide additional follow-up on this program and offered to have the Cyber Security Team come and present what Red Flags to be on the alert for.
Broward County Appraisers Office. Two representatives from the Office of Marty Kiar presented an overview of this Broward County Office.
Crimes against property/ Deed Fraud provided handouts for OWNER ALERT Register via QR code or by calling 954 357 5579. Website web.bcpa.net/owneralert.
Discussed some common attempts at fraud, such as calls offering a copy of your deed for $$$.
Accepting low-income discounts for seniors 65 and over and under 37K.
Disability exceptions include an additional $5k off.
Veterans and Active Service-connected disability.
Widow/widower exception: additional $5k off, not income-driven.
Accepting Homestead applications.
Can opt for quarterly payments vs annual sums via the property tax division.
Pat presented the beginning of the Chinese New Year Calendar.
Additional details on the Agenda.
Virginia requested the Cyber Crimes offer from the Police Department.
Pat talked about the new development on the corner of 17th St and Andrews.
Pat and Rhonda attended a meeting about the new legislation on Live Local affecting the South RAC (Regional Activity Center). Pat recapped the rules of new construction and offered affordable units (10%), allowing for more lenient building restrictions.
New legislation allows for residential buildings with commercial space and a certain percentage of affordable units, and it allows building heights equal to those within a one-mile radius.
Attendees asked, "How are the LOW INCOME/AFFORDABLE INCOME rates assessed and monitored?" Jarrod Gaylis shared that finances are scrutinized appropriately. Jarrod and Pat also referred to additional corridors that have been slated for these new Live Local legislative rules: along SR 84, Davie Boulevard, and Andrews Ave.
Ted Inserra spoke about traffic studies that are overly focused and do not take large areas and impacts into consideration.
Joe Russell brought up a swath of land along tracks that is now vacant and appears to be prepared for development.
Primo Liquors opened at the site of a Convenience store on Davie Boulevard and Train Tracks.
Michelle Dimaria presented an award from the CPCA Joe Shover Citizenship Award.
This year's award was presented to Pat Rathburn, who had been active on the CPCA board since 2007, many of those years as President.
Michelle cited numerous affiliations, committees, and events spearheaded by Pat Rathburn.
Pat accepted graciously.
Michelle handed out raffle tickets for the Croissant Park giveaways.
The meeting adjourned at 7:40 PM.
Minutes by John Marangio, Secretary
Pictures by Rhonda Kramer, Director
Tuesday, February 4, 2025
P.S. (Joe) Shover Citizenship Award Presentation (2024)
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Patricia Rathburn receives P.S. (Joe) Shover Citizenship Award |
This year (2024), we honored the Croissant Park Civic Association’s
President, Patricia Rathburn. Pat began serving on the Board of Directors in 2007. As President, Pat attends meetings with the District 4 City Commissioner and regularly attends meetings on issues pertaining to District 4 and city-wide issues.
Pat has worked tirelessly with the city to improve our neighborhood walkability and ADA accessibility and create safer biking paths and lanes throughout the southwest neighborhoods. She spearheaded Croissant Park’s 100th anniversary party and coordinated activities and events to ensure its success.
Using her legal expertise gained in decades of representing neighbors in real estate transactions, estate planning, and other civil matters, Pat has drafted countless letters and emails to the city regarding issues and projects that directly affect the safety and integrity of our neighborhood. She has fought for Croissant Park’s best interests, protecting and enhancing our home values and the safety of our residents.
In addition to serving on the Croissant Park Civic Association board, Pat is on the Boards of the Fort Lauderdale Historical Society and the City Board of Adjustments.
Pat's dedication to the well-being of our neighborhood, her activism, and her leadership exemplify the qualities of an individual who contributes to making Croissant Park a nice place to live.
presented by Michelle DiMaria
pictures by Rhonda Kramer
If you haven't already sent in your 2025 membership dues, you can use the application below, PayPal, or Zelle at CroissantParkCivic@gmail.com. We look forward to seeing you at upcoming meetings: February 25th—Pet Foto Contest, May 27th, June 24th, September 30th, and October 28th in the Croissant Park Community Center at 6:30 p.m.
Friday, November 15, 2024
Croissant Park Civic Association General Meeting June 25th 2024
Croissant Park General Meeting June 25th 2024
Monday, October 28, 2024
FLOODING! - PIE! Neighborhood Meeting - Tuesday 6:30, Oct 29th
FLOODING! - PIE! Neighborhood Meeting - Tuesday 6:30, Oct 29th
We know we just saw a lot of you at our 100th anniversary party on Saturday, but tomorrow night is our last meeting of the year – Oct. 29th, 6:30 PM at the Community Center. This is a VERY IMPORTANT meeting—the City consultants will be gathering and providing information on the flooding situation in our neighborhood. Don’t complain in the future if you don’t participate now! Also, it is Fall Dessert Night. Bring your favorite or come try goodies made by others. Pat Rathburn, President, Croissant Park Civic Association![]() |
Croissant Park Community Center 245 West Park Drive |
Thursday, June 20, 2024
Croissant Park Civic Association 'Small Business Night' May 28th, 2024 - Minutes
Location: Croissant Park Community Center
Board Members in attendance:
Pat Rathburn, President
Virginia Russell, Director
Rhonda Kramer, Director
Jarrod Gaylis, Director
Carlos Lang, Treasurer
John Marangio, Secretary
Absent, Michelle DiMaria, Vice President
- Pledge of Allegiance.
- Approval of Minutes from the Feb 27th General Meeting.
- Pat introduced Officer Trujillo from the Fort Lauderdale Police Department with Crime Stats and Updates:
Inquiry about the status of catalytic converter thefts in the city, with a specific mention of five incidents at BGH.
Question from attendees re Homeless Encampment:
Discussion about a homeless encampment near Burger King on 17th Street and SE 5th Ave, including concerns about safety and drug activity. The officer will bring these concerns to her precinct. The issue will be passed to homeless outreach officers. Three more officers will be coming on board in the next two months to address such issues.
Pat provided an update regarding the 100th Anniversary of Croissant Park and the planning for an event on October 26th at Croissant Park, including considerations for alcohol permits, food options, and swag. Invited all interested parties to join in on the planning for this event.
Celebrating our local Small Business owners:
Introduction of various small businesses and their services, including a private chef, fitness center, a pet store, and a water aerobics instructor.
- Michael Nichols, Chef/Owner provided an overview of his culinary services and provided the attendees with samples of his baked goods.
- The owner and representative of HIT Fitness introduced himself and provided a demonstration of Balance and Strength assessment and training.
- Susie Ludlow introduced herself as a water aerobics instructor and balance and strength trainer with classes at Hort Park in Shady Banks. She also provided coffee from Expresso Coffee on Andrews Avenue.
- A representative from Auggie’s Pet Supplies provided a detailed overview of their healthy pet food, treats, chews, toys, leashes, and other supplies for dogs and cats. She also provided handouts and samples for the neighbors in attendance.
- Pat Rathburn introduced her profession as an attorney focusing on Real Estate and Estate Planning. She discussed her relationships in the community and was thankful for her ongoing collaboration with local Real Estate Agents. Pat also discussed the differences between using an attorney and a title company for real estate transactions, highlighting the benefits of personalized service from an attorney.
- Rhonda Kramer introduced herself with an overview of her decades as a local Remax real estate agent sharing that homes that went for $68,000 now sell for $680,000 and emphasized the importance of supporting your neighborhood businesses to strengthen community. She then introduced her neighbor and fellow real estate agent, Jarrod Gaylis.
- Jarrod took the microphone and introduced himself, his affiliation with Coldwell Banker, and his commitment to the community. Jarrod emphasized why local realtors are crucial for neighborhood development and understanding market dynamics.
- Announcement of a hurricane preparedness event on June 1st at the Museum of Art, organized by the City of Fort Lauderdale.
- Discussion on the city's budget process and the importance of community involvement in requesting funding for local projects like sidewalks.
- Discussion on the need for speed humps in the neighborhood and the city's preference for plastic road humps over concrete ones.
- Concerns about the color and quality of the water due to old filtration systems and the upcoming new water plant.
- Concerns about short-term rentals (vacation rentals) affecting the neighborhood, including parking issues and garbage collection.
- Discussion about the restriction that Sober Homes cannot be located within a thousand feet of each other. Entities must be registered, and if they are not, they will need to obtain a license.
- Concerns were raised about unregistered vacation rentals in the neighborhood. A suggestion was made to invite someone from the city to explain the registration process.
- Discussion on how to handle noise and parking issues caused by vacation rentals, including calling a non-emergency number for code enforcement officers.
Thursday, May 23, 2024
Occasionally Annual Small Business Night
Tuesday May 28th – 6:30 PM
Friends and Neighbors-
The Croissant Park Civic Association is hosting its occasionally annual Small Business Night in conjunction with our May meeting. This was wildly popular the last time we did it, and this year, we have gotten even more interest and more small businesses signing up.
This is a great way for them to introduce their services to us and a great way for us to support small businesses in and adjacent to our neighborhood. I don’t know about you, but I have a lot of projects that need to be done, and I’m constantly reaching out to people in the neighborhood for their recommendations. Almost all of the businesses that will be attending are businesses one or more of our Board members uses regularly – so it’s not like opening the Yellow Pages ( for those of you under 35, the yellow pages was a book that the telephone company [ yes, the telephone company – Bell South – for those things called “land lines”] used to print and distribute every year to every house listing everyone's phone numbers and including ads for businesses) and simply turning to the page for “plumber” “attorney” or whatever.
Think of this as Yelp without the nasty reviews.
Our Small Business Night promises to be a fun-filled evening with a diverse range of businesses. We have florists, several new restaurants, AC repair, realtors, attorneys for various specialties, gyms, and many more. And the best part? The restaurants participating may bring some delicious goodies, adding to the event's festive atmosphere.
There may still be time to sign up to present your business. If you are interested, please e-mail us at CroissantParkCivic@gmail.com.
Hope to see you next Tuesday night!
Pat Rathburn
President, Croissant Park Civic Association