Charlotte Rodstrom, a dedicated public servant and lifelong resident of Fort Lauderdale, exemplifies pragmatic leadership. Throughout her tenure on the City Commission, including two terms as Vice Mayor, Charlotte implemented initiatives that have significantly enhanced community safety, environmental sustainability, and the local economy. Charlotte Rodstrom has consistently fought against overdevelopment and, during her time in office, the City invested over $690 million to upgrade its water and sewer systems. Unlike her opponent, she never supported the diversion of infrastructure funds from the sewer fund, ensuring that critical upgrades remained a priority.

Community Safety and Collaboration Charlotte spearheaded initiatives to foster cooperation between law enforcement and residents, enhancing neighborhood safety and fostering community trust. This program remains a cornerstone in developing strong, safe neighborhoods throughout Fort Lauderdale.

Environmental Stewardship and Urban Planning Charlotte’s leadership has been instrumental in:

• Protecting Natural Resources: She introduced comprehensive master plans that safeguarded our natural resources and ensured future development meets high environmental standards.
• Enhancing Green Spaces: Charlotte led the development of 14 new parks, enriching Fort Lauderdale’s landscape and promoting recreational activities.
• Land-Use and Zoning Innovations: She initiated revisions to the city’s zoning code to prevent overdevelopment, preserving community character and enhancing livability.
• Innovative Flood Management: Charlotte implemented a pilot program that introduced the first check valves used in our stormwater drainage system, effectively reducing flood risks and safeguarding properties from the impacts of climate change.

Waterway and Marine Life Conservation Charlotte was pivotal in securing funding for sea turtle-friendly lighting along the city’s beaches. This initiative not only protects marine life but also conserves the natural nocturnal environment critical for sea turtle hatchlings. Additionally, she has been actively involved in canal and waterway cleanup efforts, improving water quality and enhancing the aesthetic and environmental value of our waterways.

Infrastructure and Community Development Charlotte’s efforts in infrastructure have included:

• WaterWorks 2011: Invested $690 million to improve water and sewer systems. 
• Voted Against Diverting Infrastructure Funds: Charlotte voted against taking money out of the sewer infrastructure funds unlike her opponent who voted for the practice four consecutive times. 
• Flood Management Innovations: Her leadership in implementing a pilot program with new valves has significantly mitigated flooding, protecting properties from climate change effects.
• Improved Street Lighting: Upgrading lighting along State Road A1A has enhanced public safety and reduced disturbances to sea turtle habitats.
• Implemented Neighborhood Masterplans: Charlotte worked with many District 2 neighborhoods to create a masterplan for their individual neighborhoods to ensure the needs of the community were met.
• Fought Against Overdevelopment: Charlotte understood that overdevelopment puts unsustainable pressure on our infrastructure and our neighborhoods. 

Cultural and Community Enrichment Through her roles in various boards and community projects, Charlotte has:

• Promoted Community Gardens: She built consensus for community gardens across the city, including a thriving one in Flagler Village, although other gardens were less successful under subsequent commissions.
• Advanced Public Spaces: Charlotte contributed to the creation of community redevelopment areas and greenways, and worked with the Broward Trust to establish the Annie Beck Educational and Community Center.
• Protected Key Cultural Museums: Created a new home for the Stonewall National Museum & Archives,

Economic and Housing Development Charlotte has effectively worked with neighborhoods, small businesses, and developers to ensure that economic development opportunities benefit all residents. She championed sustainable redevelopment in both Community Development Areas (CRA) with neighborhood and community support.

Vision for the Future Charlotte is committed to continuing her legacy of responsible governance, advocating for policies that enhance the quality of life in Fort Lauderdale. If re-elected, she pledges to serve as a full-time Commissioner, ensuring that every decision is made with the community’s best interests at heart.