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The city commissioners gave preliminary approval for a 50 townhome project between 26th St. and 24th St. with 15th Ave. on its west side.

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Feature

City Moves Forward With New Development

By John Hayden

Developers have proposed a new project. It’s in a prime location. It will bring new residents paying top tier property taxes.

If you feel like you’ve heard this story before, you have. But everyone is sure this time will be different. 

At their May 27 meeting, city commissioners gave preliminary approval for a 50 townhome project between 26th St. and 24th St. with 15th Ave. on its west side. The official address is 1550 NE. 26th St. and is the site of the old church that burned down years ago. 

They would be three and four bedroom homes with attached one and two car garages. Prices would likely start at $800,000 or higher. 

Developers also seem willing to comply with “unwritten rules” that often accompany these projects. Vacation rentals or short-term tenants won’t be allowed. There will be a gated entrance exclusively for emergency vehicles. But, development in Wilton Manors is often like the bible verse Job 38:11, “Thou may come this far, but no farther.” 

However, there are signs this time will actually be different. First, neighbors and the neighborhood association have no major objections. Second, Lennar, the developer, isn’t asking for myriad exceptions to the city’s building code. Third, and perhaps most important, is speed. Lennar is one of the biggest home developers in the country. 

While other projects have withered on the vine due to high interest rates and material costs, one person close to the project tells The Gazette that Lennar does these sorts of projects all the time. 

During the meeting, their representative said once they have county approval, which they hope to have by early autumn, they are ready to start construction. Since there is no demolition involved (remains of the fire were cleared away years ago) they expect construction to take about a year, which would be the first quarter of 2027. 

For comparison, the hotel planned for Dixie Hwy. by Five Points was approved last year and said it doesn’t plan to break ground until early 2026. Fines on the property appear to be the only major obstacle remaining. 

Lennar won’t close on the property until all the approvals are given, and say the current owner is working with the city to resolve violations and fines. Their rep also, preemptively and reassuringly, said any issues like illegal trash dumps would be taken care of during the construction process.

News

Wilton Street Party Turns into Two-Day Music Fest

Wilton Manors’ newest street party is poised to, in at least one way, become the city’s largest party. Rock The Block is becoming a two-day music festival.

POW! in the Park Brings ‘The Sound of Music’ to Life in a Bold New Way | Opinion

In a celebration of inclusion, community, and creativity, Plays of Wilton (POW!), in partnership with the City of Wilton Manors, will present an outdoor performance of The Sound of Music tailored specifically for the deaf and hearing-impaired.

Oakland Park Pride Brings Disco, Drag, and Delights Tonight

Wear your bell-bottoms and platform shoes with pride this weekend in Oakland Park. The city is holding their annual Pride celebration Friday, June 6, at Jaco Pastorius Park. The free event runs 6-10 p.m.

ICYMI

Trans 101: Spreading Joy, Laughter, and Learning in City

At a standing-room-only event in Wilton Manors, trans activists Candis Cayne and Danna Davis invited the community to learn, laugh, and celebrate at Trans 101, a lively evening of videos, conversation, and connection.

Weekly Events

TODAY: Soundscape by Escape

Enjoy the Soundscape of DJReal1 at Escape Rooftop, every Friday from 1-6 p.m., with refreshing cocktails and skyline views.


SAT: Pool Party

Elevate your weekend with a rooftop pool party in downtown Fort Lauderdale.  


SUN: Beer Yoga

Yoga in the taproom at LauderAle, incorporating a signature ale in to the poses for the last part of class.

Job Opportunities

Office Manager -- Fort Lauderdale

ICBD HOLDINGS is hiring an Office Manager to oversee office and front desk operations, administrative functions, vendor coordination, and procedural compliance to maintain efficiency, organization, and safety. $75,000 - $90,000 a year. 


Background Specialist -- Fort Lauderdale

City of Plantation is seeking a Background Specialist to attend job fairs, networking events, and other events in order to actively recruit potential Police Department applicants, and more. $44,332.08 - $78,201.80 a year.

Friday's Furry Friend

A smile as big as his heart! Meet five-year old Tank, our favorite smiling pup! For his entire life, Tank (ID 699247) has known the comfort of a home. He’s great with kids and adults and is a loyal and loving dog. Tank will sit by your side waiting for pets, and he smiles at us every time we walk by the kennel. He grew up with kids, is crate trained, good at the vet, and takes treats so softly you’ll hardly feel it. He knows “go to bed” and comes when called (most of the time). Tank tends to get a little excited when meeting new people, but he’s kind, calm around other dogs, and just wants to be near you. He’ll chase a ball if you invite him, but he’s just as happy hanging by your side. His family is facing a medical crisis, and they made the heartbreaking decision to surrender him so he can get the time and care he deserves. He’s confused, but still smiling and still hoping someone new will walk by and see what a good boy he is. If you have room in your heart for a dog who’s known love and is ready to give it again, Tank is waiting.

Photo of the Week

OUTSFL's inaugural Pride Gala lit up the Crystal Ballroom in Wilton Manors on May 22, presented by Grieco Ford. Hosted by Melissa St. John and headlined by Erika Norell, the night featured dazzling performances and the crowning of Mizz OUTSFL 2025. Honorees included the Marsha P. Johnson Award winner and her court, all in support of LGBTQ student scholarships.

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