On March 5, 2025, we celebrated the 20th anniversary of our city’s journey—a journey shaped by vision, resilience, and the collective efforts of every person who calls West Park home. This milestone is a testament to how far we’ve come, but it is also a moment to acknowledge how much more we can achieve together.

Remember that this anniversary is not just an achievement; it was a testament to our resilience, our determination, and the power of unity. Those early days, filled with dreams and hard work, were the foundation of everything we’ve built together. As we look back, we see the faces of those who paved the way—mentors, leaders, and community members who inspired us to aim higher. We remember the times we faced adversity but rose above it. Every challenge taught us lessons, and every success gave us the courage to dream bigger.

Faith has been our anchor in times of uncertainty. When the storms came, it was faith that reminded us to keep going, step by step, even when the path wasn’t clear.

Twenty years ago, we dared to dream big. We envisioned a city of opportunity, innovation, and inclusion. As we made tremendous strides, challenges remained and we faced them head-on.

Today, I stand before you with a message rooted in hope, perseverance, and gratitude. The journey we’ve traveled—individually and collectively—has not always been easy. We’ve faced mountains too steep to climb alone, rivers too deep to cross without help, and storms that tested our resolve. And yet, here we are. We’ve come this far by faith.

So, as we gather to reflect on the journey we’ve taken together—a journey filled with challenges, triumphs, and growth. let’s take a trip down memory lane and revisit some moments that have shaped us and brought us to where we are today.

Some of the Major Accomplishments in the Past 20 Years Include:

1. ESTABLISHED THE WEST PARK COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER:

In our efforts to improve communication with residents and businesses, we established the West Park Community Newspaper in 2011.

2. OPENED THE CITY’S FIRST CITY HALL:

We celebrated the grand opening of our City Hall and Commission Chamber on April 1st 2011.

3. EARNED NATIONAL RECOGNITION AS “PLAYFUL CITY USA”:

The City was nationally recognized and designated as a Playful City USA municipality. This national recognition honors cities and towns for innovative programs to get children to be active, playing and healthy.

4. STATE ROAD 7 DESIGNATION AS WEST PARK BOULEVARD:

In 2012 the State Legislature co-designated State Road 7 and West Park Boulevard.

5. ESTABLISHED THE YOUTH COUNCIL:

Focusing on leadership, community involvement, teamwork, and fun- the Youth Advisory Council was established.

6. ESTABLISHED THE WEST PARK EXPLORER PROGRAM:

The West Park Explorer Program is another youth program that is open to high school students through college aged young adults, who may be thinking about a career in law enforcement.

7. ESTABLISHED THE SENIOR PROGRAM:

By partnering with the Area-wide Council on Aging of Broward County and Broward Meals on Wheels our Senior Citizen Program evolved at McTyre Park.

8. ESTABLISHED THE YOUTH CRIME PREVENTION PROGRAM:

In partnership with the Children’s Services Council of Broward County (CSC) the Youth Crime Prevention Afterschool & Out-of-School programs was established in an effort to continue providing opportunities that would deter criminal behavior amongst our youth.

9. COLLABORATED WITH BROWARD COLLEGE FOR THE BROWARD COMMUNITY INITIATIVE:

In collaboration with Broward College, the goal of this program is to increase college access and attendance; improve degree and certification attainment; and to holistically raise social and economic mobility. 

10. ESTABLISHED THE COMMUNITY SUPPORT PROGRAM:

This program was set up to receive funds from the Community Benefit Plan provided by developers who partner with the City. The funds are used to provide benefits to residents through the Minor Home Repair Grant Program (a forgivable loan to eligible residents for home repair projects); Childcare Assistance Grant Program (This program provides financial assistance to eligible families to pay for quality child care. The maximum grant award is $600 per applicant); and the Tree Trimming Grant Program (established to mitigate negative effects associated with trees encroaching on existing Florida Power and Light power lines.)

11. INFRASTRUCTURE IMPROVEMENTS & FUNDING INITIATIVES:

Over the last 20 years, we have been able to secure funding from Federal, State and Broward County to fund infrastructure improvement projects and programs. Funding opportunities through programs and agencies provided multimillion dollars over the years for improvements such as: SW 56th Avenue Complete Street Improvement; SW 40th Avenue Complete Street Improvement; SW 25th Street Complete Street Improvement; and County Line Road Improvement, just to name a few.

12. ESTABLISHED THE FREE FRESH FOOD DISTRIBUTION PROGRAM:

Serving hundreds of residents monthly, our Free Fresh Food Distribution provides fresh fruit, produce and dry, shelf stable food giveaways in partnership with Farm Share and Feeding South Florida

13. ESTABLISHED THE SMALL BUSINESS “MOM & POP” GRANT PROGRAM:

In our continued effort to invest in local businesses, we now offer the “Mom & Pop” Small Business Grant Program. This grant program is funded through revenues received from Business Tax Receipts. The program is created to provide financial and technical assistance to qualified small businesses that meet the eligibility criteria as provided in the grant application. 

14. RECOGNIZED THE CITY’S PIONEERS:

In 2015, we recognized the need to identify notable individuals who pushed boundaries to advance the idea of the new City now known as West Park and the first elected officials who served the City. These women and men experienced success that we enjoy today by overcoming great challenges. These longstanding residents include: Blanche Jones; Doris Newton; Dr. Gay Outler; Eric H. Jones; Thomas Dorsett; Felicia M. Brunson; Sharon Fyffe; Rita “Peaches” Mack; Mary Kendrick; and Pat Prutzman. 

15. PURCHASED THE CITY’S FIRST EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES TRUCK 

In the spirit of continuing to increase the quality of service to our residents as well as for the health, welfare and safety of our residents. the City purchased its first new 2016 rescue (ambulance) truck. In 2024, the City authorized the purchase of the second ambulance as replacement. 

16. DEVELOPED ADDITIONAL PARK FACILITY – WATER TOWER PARK:

This initiative started in 2014 with the letter of intent to purchase a parcel of land located west of 3920 SW 38th Avenue in West Park from the County. The addition of Water Tower Park added 0.28 acres of City park space, thus making it a step toward the City meeting the 3 acre per every 1,000 residents’ requirement. This new park features playground equipment with a shade structure, picnic bench, and barbecue grill. The park construction was completed in 2019.

17. ESTABLISHMENT OF AND THE EXPANSION OF THE TRANSIT ORIENTED CORRIDOR:

In the earlier years of the City the Transit Oriented Corridor (TOC) was established. In 2018, the administration initiated the expansion of the TOC. This Increased the City’s stock of commercial land use to reduce the burden on residential property tax payers, who presently carry the majority of the burden of paying for City-related expenses

18. PUBLIC PRIVATE COLLABORATION FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENTS ALONG THE TRANSIT ORIENTED CORRIDOR:

Through a public-private collaborative process, a site plan was adopted for the construction of a mixed-use, pedestrian oriented development at 5690 Pembroke Road. The development was successfully completed by Wilferz Company, LLC. In February 2021, the City issued approval for the second commercial development at 5000 Pembroke Road, in collaboration with Wilferz Company, LLC.  This now completed office development encompasses all of the design guidelines of the Transit Oriented Corridor (TOC) zoning district, including building development close to Pembroke Road, parking in the rear of the building and enhanced landscaping throughout the project. To continue spurring development along the TOC, in October 2023, the City issued approval for the third mixed-use development at 2417 South State Road 7.  

19. ESTABLISHED THE INFILL LOT AFFORDABLE HOUSING DEVELOPMENT INITIATIVE:

Affordable housing has far reaching impact on economic growth, opportunity, social mobility and equity. Housing costs represent the single largest component of total household expenses for most families and households. Recognizing these impacts, in 2019, we established the Infill Lot Affordable Housing Development Initiative for five (5) vacant lots, in collaboration with Broward County. Following a formal procurement process, the City selected two non-profit affordable housing development firms to participate in the City’s Infill Lot Affordable Housing Development initiative. As part of this public-private collaboration, the City provided vacant lots for the construction of new, single-family affordable homes in accordance with Housing and Urban Development guidelines. As part of our collaboration with the County, the County provided pre-construction expenditures in an amount up to $20,000 per lot. To further ensure home affordability, future homebuyers will receive down-payment and closing cost assistance in an amount up to $80,000 as part of a Broward County homebuyer assistance program. The newly constructed homes will consist of the highest quality materials and will contain both three and four bedroom designs with a two-car garages. The completed project will provide a vital asset to the surrounding community and long-term housing affordability for new homebuyers. The five developed single family homes are scheduled to be completed by the second quarter of FY2025.   

20. REACTION TO PERIOD OF TREMENDOUS ECONOMIC CONSTRAINT:

During a period of tremendous economic constraint, which saw the City’s tax base decline to a point lower than it was when the City was first incorporated, the City’s financial health has been maintained through tough decision making and a commitment to keeping the City’s financial health sound.  During the periods of rapid tax base growth, the City opted to set aside those increased funds so that its finances could be sustained during any economic downturn.  Even with the nation’s very difficult financial circumstances, the City found creative ways to increase revenue and reduce expenses, thus maintaining a very good financial position for the near term.

Today, we stand at the crossroads of reflection and aspiration as we celebrate all the diligent works of the City of West Park. Over the past two decades, our city has grown, flourished, and weathered challenges, thanks to the collective strength, congenial enthusiasm and determination of our community.

As we move into this new season, I ask you to join me in recommitting to the principles that built this city: compassion, collaboration, and courage. Let us renew our determination to address the pressing issues before us—not as individuals, but as one community, One West Park, united by a shared purpose.

This milestone is not just about looking back at what we’ve achieved – it’s a call to action for what lies ahead. While we have much to be proud of, we know there is still work to do to build a city that serves everyone equally and sustainably.  We are Focused Forward!

We’re reminded of the importance of cherishing the present and embracing the future. Together, we’ve proven that anything is possible when we work hand in hand. So, as we close this chapter of reflection and open a new one filled with passion, hope and ambition, let’s carry forward the spirit of those memories. Let’s continue building, growing, and dreaming, knowing that our past is the compass that guides us to an even brighter tomorrow. 

Let’s look forward to accomplishing these goals in the future:

Mini-Amphitheater at McTyre Park:

We continue to see positive progress with the construction of our state of the art, 1,242 square feet reinforced concrete, amphitheater which shall include a covered stage platform; enclosed storage; electrical rooms; and handicap accessible ramps. Upon completion, the amphitheater and support facilities will allow for event programming, productions, and presentation of music, dance, theatre art and it would serve as a venue for cultural enrichment activities. 

Cultural Facility at McTyre Park: 

As part of our ongoing development plans for McTyre Park, we are also planning to construct a Cultural Center at the Park. The proposed Cultural Facility is scheduled to be used primarily for the production, exhibition, or any combination thereof of cultural disciplines including music, dance, theater, creative writing, literature, painting, architecture, sculpting, folk arts, photography, media arts, visual arts, programs of museums and other such allied major art forms. While the facility may showcase a variety of performing arts and exhibits, it will also offer many educational events, workshops, classes, and outreach efforts to the benefit of the community. 

SW 21st Street Complete Street Improvement:

As part of improving our infrastructure, we have ongoing complete street improvement along SW 21 Street. The improvement project runs from State Road 7 to SW 40th Avenue. This surtax-funded 1.5-mile complete street improvement includes asphalt resurfacing, construction of bike lane, swale area improvement, installation of traffic calming elements, installation of regulatory signs, pavement marking, and ADA ramp upgrades. The project is on track to reach substantial completion before the end of this year.

SW 48th Avenue Complete Street Improvement:

The SW 48th Avenue Complete Street Improvement is another surtax-funded project. The improvement project which runs from County Line Road to Pembroke Road. The construction phase of the project is scheduled to commence soon, to include asphalt pavement resurfacing, construction of bike lanes, swale area improvement, installation of traffic calming element, installation of regulatory signs, pavement marking, landscaping and ADA ramp upgrades.  

Pioneer Wall at Mary Saunders Park:

In 2024, the city brought to fruition the Pioneer Wall initiative, intended to highlight the pioneers of the West Park community, symbolize its change, transformation, and “Positive Progression” while celebrating the culture of the early settlers and other influential persons.  The Pioneer Wall will feature plaques containing names of pioneers on the north face as well as an art mural representing the historic cultural identity of West Park on the south side.  The construction of the wall was successfully completed in November 2024 and the art mural was implemented earlier this year.  Final wall elements will be presented at an official unveiling ceremony very soon.

Infill Affordable Housing Program:

In the City’s continued effort to enhance quality of life in the City, we initiated the Infill Affordable Housing Program by making City’s vacant residential lots available to develop single-family homes. The first set of two single family affordable housing developments were completed by Kinetic Lifestyle Homes LLC – a local developer and realtor. The second set of three single-family affordable housing development were awarded to Housing Foundation of America. The three new single-family homes will include a three-bedroom, two-bathroom, two-car garage design and will be sold to families earning 80% or below the median income in Broward County. Construction on the second set of three single family affordable housing developments are scheduled to be completed in the coming weeks.

Commercial Development Initiative along the Transit Oriented Corridor:

As part of our ongoing initiative to develop our Transit Oriented Corridor, our partnership with Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) and Wilferz Company has yielded a successful plan to develop the vacant parcels at the northeast corner of State Road 7 and SW 25th Street. The parcels were formerly slated, by FDOT, to be used for drainage retention pond, but plans are now completed for the construction of a 2,200 square feet commercial building that will house a restaurant, with drive through, potential bank and flexible retail spaces.

Resilience Initiative – Installation of Electric Vehicle Charging Stations:

In collaboration with Interstate Development and Florida Power & Light (FPL), we will be installing electric vehicle charging stations on the City Hall parking lot. This initiative is part of our commitment to sustainability by providing 100% renewable energy for our residents and visitors.  The initiative will also promote economic development by attracting new customers to our location.

So now after hearing that, I ask for your commitment—to our shared vision, to one another, and to the future we all want to see. 

Let us:

• Strive for greater inclusion and equity, ensuring that no one is left behind.

• Protect and preserve our environment, safeguarding it for generations to come.

• Support one another, recognizing that our collective strength is the foundation of our success.
• Respect each other…this means embracing our differences and understanding that diversity enriches our lives.  By acknowledging and valuing those differences we create an environment of empathy, unity and mutual growth

We stand on the shoulders of those who believed in a brighter future for the City of West Park. Now it is our turn to do the same. The next chapter of our city’s story depends on each of us—our ideas, our persistence, and our willingness to act.

Let this anniversary be more than a celebration. Let it be a call to action for every resident, business, and organization to step forward and contribute to the vision of a city where everyone can thrive. Together, we can shape a future that honors the past and inspires generations to come.

This is our city. Its story is written not by one leader, one organization, or one generation—but by all of us together. Let us honor this 20th anniversary by renewing our dedication to a brighter, stronger, and more united City of West Park.

We’ve come this far by faith—and by faith, we will go even farther.

Let us never forget the power of faith.  Faith without works is dead.  We must have faith in ourselves, in each other, and in the greater purpose that brought us here. We’ve come this far by faith, and we will keep moving forward by the same unwavering spirit.

Faith isn’t just about looking back; it’s about looking forward. It’s about seeing the unseen and trusting in a vision that’s yet to come to life. Our faith must be stronger than ever before. It’s not just about belief — it’s about action. It’s about coming together, supporting one another, and building something greater than ourselves.

We’ve come this far by faith—and by faith, we will go even farther.

I stand before you with a message rooted in hope, perseverance, and gratitude. The journey we’ve traveled—individually and collectively—has not always been easy. We’ve faced mountains too steep to climb alone, rivers too deep to cross without help, and storms that tested our resolve. And yet, here we are. We’ve come this far by faith.

Faith is not just about belief; it’s about action. It’s about stepping forward when the road ahead is uncertain, trusting that the ground will rise to meet you. Faith is about looking at impossible situations and declaring, “We will overcome.” It’s what has carried generations before us and what will carry us into the future.

Faith also calls us to unity. It reminds us that no one walks this journey alone. Look around you—at the faces of those who stood by your side, encouraged you, and believed in you when you couldn’t believe in yourself. It is through our shared faith, our collective resilience, that we have overcome and will continue to overcome.

As we move forward, let us carry this faith with us. Let it guide our actions, inspire our dreams, and strengthen our bonds. Let it remind us that even when the road gets tough, we are never alone. Together, with faith as our foundation, we can build a future filled with hope, love, and promise. So today, let us celebrate not just how far we’ve come, but the faith that has brought us here. Let us commit to walking forward, hand in hand, with the assurance that our best days are still ahead.

We’ve come this far by faith—and by faith, we will go even farther.

Faith is what inspires a community to dream beyond its current circumstances. It’s what fuels us to build a city that is stronger, more vibrant, and more inclusive. Faith gives us the courage to tackle difficult issues and find solutions that reflect the values we hold dear.

Our journey is not over. There is still work to do. There are still families in need, neighborhoods waiting for revitalization, and dreams yet to be realized. Faith calls us to press on. It calls us to invest in our future—to ensure that our children inherit a city they can be proud of.

As your mayor, I promise to continue leading with faith—faith in our city’s potential and faith in you, the incredible people who make up this community. But leadership is not a solo effort. It is something we do together. Every voice matters. Every idea counts. Every hand contributes to the greater good.

We’ve come this far by faith, and by faith, we will go even farther. 

Together, we will continue building a city where opportunity thrives, compassion prevails, and hope endures.  In our city, strength doesn’t come from bricks and buildings it comes from you. It’s the warmth of a friendly hello on the street, the shared laughter at local events, and the way we rally together in tough times. Every one of you whether you are helping a neighbor, volunteering your time, or simply spreading positivity adds to the heartbeat of our incredible home. You are what makes this city special. That’s what makes us more than a city; it makes us a community.

We’ve come this far by faith…. And by faith we will go even farther!

We are a city that thrives because we care for one another, a city that cares because we celebrate each other’s successes, and a city that’s strong because we tackle each challenge one by one! We are still here and we aren’t going anywhere, because we have come this far by faith, and by faith we will go even farther!

I declare and decree that on our 20th year anniversary, the state of the City of West Park is strong and we are only getting stronger!

Remember to contact me at City Hall with your ideas, suggestions or concerns.  I represent you and appreciate your input into the continued success of our beloved city.  I can be reached at (954) 329-8990 or via email at: fbrunson@cityofwestpark.org.