CITY OF DEERFIELD BEACH SAID $165,000 WAS IN BUDGET IN 2020 FOR LIFEGUARD STANDS

Deerfield-News. com-Deerfield Beach, Fl-The below is from the city of Deerfield Beach and our Public Records Request. Not quite sure they understood what information I was seeking but it is worth posting the response.

Our request was what the public voted for of the options offered in 2020. Our original post from 2020 and the options that were available and the city’s response.

Deerfield-News. com-Deerfield Beach, Fl-Back in February of 2020 the city of Deerfield Beach did an online poll seeking input from residents on new lifeguard stands. I have not received the response yet on the newly requested Public Records request on which design was the winner. That said neither of the options offered in 2020 seem to justify anything near the cost of $211,816.50 per lifeguard the city has contracted with Hartzell to build. Just seems $847,266 is a lot of taxpayer money for four lifeguard stands. What do you think, let us and your city Commissioners and Mayor know.

Our original post-February 12,2020

The City Manager in 2020 said that an Inspector General report on the cost of lifeguard stands was feasible.

He further mentioned an Office of Inspector General investigation a few years
ago into the cost of a tower as they could not understand why the cost was so exorbitant; the cost was between
125,000 and $130,000. The procurement was investigated and resulted in being a feasible cost for the tower.

Our Public Records Request-

DEPARTMENTAL BUSINESS – CONTINUED
Mayor Ganz closed the public hearing.
In response to Mayor Ganz’s question, Mr. Santucci replied that there has not been much input from the public;
however, there has been on Item 9.
After a brief discussion, it was advised that a vote was not needed.
9. Presentation of renderings of proposed Lifeguard Tower appearance for Commission consensus.
David Santucci, City Manager, said the current fiscal year budget included the design of a new lifeguard tower and
construction of one (1) tower. The one (1) tower, if approved and constructed, would be placed at the very north end
of the beach where there has been increased demand. With the plan to add two (2) towers every year thereafter until
all the towers are replaced. The current towers need to be replaced because they have come to the end of their
useful life; whereby, the wood has become so brittle that repairing is no longer an option. The roofing structures are
in constant disrepair and are being patched continuously, but continue to leak. Additionally, there have been 971
responses to the beach tower poll; whereby, 60% of the public wanted option # 1, instead of #2. He said all the
comments have been very positive with only one (1) being derogatory. Lastly, there were three (3) main components
to the design; 1) functionality for lifeguards to have clear view to the beach; 2) design fit well with the environmen t,
i.e. pier building; and 3) security and storage which is lacking.
Ken Carlson, Architect, 1166 West Newport Center Drive, Deerfield Beach, provided renderings of two (2) lifeguard
tower options. Storage is provided for both towers, but there are minor differences between both. Option 2 provides
a brighter teal and brown doors with ipe wood. The metal roof panels are similar to the pier.
Thereafter, there was a brief question and answer session and each Commission member outlined their preference
between Option # 1 and Option # 2. Commissioners Hudak, Parness and Vice Mayor Droksy spoke in support of
Option #2.
Mayor Ganz opened the public hearing.
Gwyndolen Clarke-Reed, 1430 SW 6th Way, Deerfield Beach, asked if the steps coming from the lifeguard stand
are required instead of having a ramp.
Peggy Ross, 103 NE 19th Avenue, Deerfield Beach, asked about the materials being used to make the tower.
Mayor Ganz closed the public hearing.
Mr. Santucci replied that stairs are better from a safety standpoint and if a ramp were done, it would have to be
extended much further than the steps and create a hazard to beachgoers. Regarding the materials, ipe wood is being
used. It is very strong and holds up well in beach conditions; the roof will be metal.
In response to Vice Mayor Drosky’s question, Mr. Santucci replied that the cost estimate of $165,000 was included in
the current fiscal year budget and is consistent with the cost of lifeguard towers. Lifeguard towers can cost more
depending on how elaborate they are. He further mentioned an Office of Inspector General investigation a few years
ago into the cost of a tower as they could not understand why the cost was so exorbitant; the cost was between
125,000 and $130,000. The procurement was investigated and resulted in being a feasible cost for the tower.
Mayor Ganz and Commissioner Preston favored Option #1; thereafter, discussion ensued.