THE AVIATION DEPARTMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AND GROWTH MANAGEMENT DEPARTMENT RECOMMEND APPROVAL OF THE ABOVE MOTION.
This action directs the Office of the County Attorney to draft an ordinance to update Section 39-77 in the Broward County Code of Ordinances to reflect current regulations regarding landscaping requirements and perimeter security at FLL.
Section 39-77 of the Code defines the regulations pertaining to applicability of landscaping regulations and standards at FLL. These procedures need updating to reflect changes to the perimeter security requirements at FLL.
Various Airport tenants have been required to install landscaping along the fenced perimeter of FLL’s Air Operations Area (AOA) to obtain site development approval under Chapter 39 of the Code. Removal of that landscaping is now necessary to comply with the Airport Security Program (ASP) mandated by the United States Department of Homeland Security, Transportation Security Administration (TSA). The ASP requires object-free clear zones within a specified distance of the security perimeter fence. The clear zones are designed to:
1. Ensure adequate visibility, surveillance, and maintenance of the fenced perimeter;
2. Eliminate coverage and hiding areas for vandals, trespassers, and contraband;
3. Minimize the risk of intrusions into the AOA; and
4. Enhance aircraft safety through reduction of wildlife attractants.
TSA has directed removal of all landscaping from the clear zones, and has advised that penalties, including monetary fines, may be imposed on the Airport for non-compliance with its directive.
Consistent with TSA’s instructions, the Broward County Aviation Department is moving forward with the request to amend Section 39-77 of the Code exempting AOA clear zones from site development landscaping requirements, which is necessary to ensure compliance of future Airport tenant development with the ASP.
This action will result in a draft Ordinance to incorporate the above mentioned changes to Section 39-77 of the Code. It is anticipated that the Board will review the proposed Ordinance in June 2014. |