BROWARD COUNTY, FL - Broward County is among hundreds of communities throughout the United States observing National County Government Month in April. This initiative, sponsored by the National Association of Counties (NACo), is an opportunity to highlight and actively promote services and programs.

This year's theme "Counties RISE!," is an acronym for Resiliency, Inclusion, Solvency and Empowerment. This month, we highlight some of the County's programs that represent RISE!, as it is the County's commitment to ensure an inclusive and resilient environment for residents and visitors. 

RESILIENCY

The Broward Climate Change Action Plan (CCAP) consists of nearly 125 strategic actions to achieve an 80% greenhouse gas emissions reduction by 2050 and increase the community's resilience to the effects of climate change. 

Accomplishments include:

• 23 new electric vehicles (EVs) in FY2022
• To date, Fleet Services has 50 pure EVs 
• 90 charging ports are available at 13 County sites

Broward Water Partnership (BWP) and Conservation Pays Rebate Program encourages residents to save water, save money and save the environment by offering:

• Toilet rebates up to $100 each for qualifying residents, businesses and nonprofits
• Water-efficient shower heads and low-flow faucet aerators to eligible residents

INCLUSION

Broward County is committed to creating and nourishing a Countywide culture of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion and recognizes different perspectives and cultures, seeking economic opportunity, freedom of expression and superior quality of life.

• Visit Lauderdale's LGBT+ Travel - Greater Fort Lauderdale offers cultural attractions and an abundance of LGBT+ operated businesses and hotels, ensuring that there is a wealth of event choices.

• African American Research Library and Cultural Center (AARLCC) - Since its opening in 2002, AARLCC has become an integral part of the community, offering classes in computer technology, and educational, recreational and cultural programs. AARLCC is located in the Sistrunk community, one of the oldest historically Black communities in Fort Lauderdale.

SOLVENCY

The County has a low unemployment rate. Big companies are relocating to the area and are committing to helping small businesses create jobs and opportunities. 

• The Certified Business Enterprise (CBE) Program - The CBE has increased revenue and helped to keep dollars in the County. The Office of Economic and Small Business Development encourages local small businesses to consider applying for certification in their small business programs.
• Film Lauderdale - As a full-service concierge Film Commission, the agency provides locations and logistics assistance, issues film permits for 26 municipalities and administers a County-centric film and television performance-based incentive program. In 2022, Film Lauderdale issued 714 permits, generating more than $137.1 million in local economic impact and creating more than 11,000 jobs for cast and crew members. For a list of locations, a production directory and film-friendly hotels, visit Broward.org/Film.

EMPOWERMENT

• The Financial Capability Program (FCP) - Offered by the Family Success Administration Division, the FCP helps residents develop individualized financial goals by creating a sustainable budget, establishing or improving credit, understanding secure banking options and designing a financial plan to build assets.
• Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) - The CSW Advisory Board is a non-partisan body that provides a collaborative platform for those seeking information on issues that affect women, girls and their families in our County. The Board identifies and helps resolve economic, health, social and other issues concerning women's lives through education and advocacy.

To find these programs, visit the "Counties RISE!" website. To learn more about NACo's initiative, visit here.