Leading on Recertification: On Tuesday, Boca Raton adopted the state’s first building recertification ordinance since the tragic building collapse in Surfside. This ordinance has more stringent requirements than those in place in Miami-Dade or Broward counties. It provides for an initial review of structural and electrical systems every 30 years, with additional recertifications every 10 years. About 240 buildings within Boca Raton of over three stories or occupancy of more than 500 people will be protected by these new safety rules.

My colleagues and I worked with city staff, engineers, and other professionals to craft and refine these measures with the support of the Beach Condo Association, neighborhood groups, and residents. The implementation will allow appropriate time for compliance, with initial reviews phased in over time, working westward from the barrier island. More details are available on our city website and from the Palm Beach Post.

I was committed to fast-tracking these efforts on behalf of our residents – and we delivered. While we didn’t set out to be the first city to take action, our efforts will now serve as a model for other places. Of course, we will continue to adapt as more information on best practices as it emerges and make any needed improvements, but this was a vital step. I am glad our Council and community are leading the way.

One potential benefit of this measure in is providing greater confidence to Boca’s housing market, as was highlighted in the Sun Sentinel’s editorial. Another is greater transparency, as both draft and final reports will be made publicly available, so residents can know that their buildings are safe.

The first function of government is public safety, and this measure is an important step to enhance the excellent work of our building professionals, who are already proactive in anticipating and preventing problems.