|
 |
Charlotte E. Rodstrom was elected to the Fort Lauderdale City Commission in 2006 and presently serves as Vice Mayor of the City of Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
Born in Ann Arbor, Michigan in 1953, Charlotte’s arrival in Fort Lauderdale is a story unto itself. Her parents first met as college students while vacationing in Fort Lauderdale during Spring Break. After graduating from the University of Michigan, they married and returned to Fort Lauderdale with two-year-old Charlotte in tow.
Considered a native Floridian by most, Charlotte has spent more than 50 years living, working, raising a family, and serving in numerous positions of leadership in civic and community endeavors aimed at improving and enhancing her hometown of Fort Lauderdale.
Charlotte has a thorough understanding of Fort Lauderdale’s leading industries, tourism and marine, as her parents owned and operated a hotel and a boat charter business. This unique perspective has made her a strong advocate of protecting, preserving and enhancing these industries that are vital to Fort Lauderdale’s future.
She also has firsthand knowledge and experience with the public education system. Charlotte attended Harbordale Elementary and Nova Middle School. She is a graduate of Stranahan High School and also attended Centenary College for Women in New Jersey.
Being raised in an atmosphere of public service and hospitality helped Charlotte develop a high standard and appreciation for both. These qualities, together with her loyalty to the City of Fort Lauderdale, have created a leadership style that focuses on clear vision, relentless determination, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
Charlotte has raised three sons, Travis, 25, Wade, 22, and John, 16 all in Fort Lauderdale. Her two oldest sons are in the steel processing business. Her youngest son is a junior at St. Thomas High School. Charlotte has continually stressed to her children the importance of hard work and the value of giving back to the community.
After coming out of retirement in 2003, she decided the best way to serve her community was to run for elected office and provide a strong voice to the constituents of Commission District II and to residents throughout the City of Fort Lauderdale. In 2006, that dream became reality. Charlotte now serves as Commissioner of what many call the most diverse District in the City. Married to Broward County Commissioner John E. Rodstrom, the couple works together to successfully balance the world of politics and family life.
Previous accomplishments:
- Charlotte retired in 1992 after 20 years in the airline industry.
- She has served as a Homeowners Association President for eight years, and PTA President, Vice President, Secretary and Historian.
- She has served as a substitute teacher for the school her children attended.
- She is Past President of Fast Tracking Marketing, a company designed to market the motor sports industry.
- She has served on the Historic Stranahan House Board of Directors and on the City of Fort Lauderdale Planning and Zoning Advisory Board.
- She was elected to public office in 2006.
Present accomplishments and goals:
- Initiated a comprehensive Beach Master Plan and Zoning in Progress (ZIP) on Fort Lauderdale’s Barrier Island to protect natural resources, preserve quality of life for residents, and ensure future developments adhere to higher standards.
- Created a monthly crime meeting to address crime and code issues in District II neighborhoods in need.
- Completed the South Middle River Civic Association (SMRCA) Passive Park with Broward County Land Preservation funds and finalized the SMRCA Neighborhood Master Plan.
- Initiated and completed a zoning change to protect neighborhood integrity from over development.
- Implemented parking and street enhancements throughout District II.
- Supported additional lifeguards to patrol and enhance safety in the north beach area.
- Pivotal vote in relocating the Stonewall Library and Archives to the Art Serve facility.
- Initiating a Master Plan to revitalize the Fort Lauderdale Aquatics Complex and the International Swimming Hall of Fame.
- Working with the Broward Trust to establish the Anne Beck Educational and Community Center in Middle River Terrace Park.
- Initiated a Cultural Arts and Tourism Advisory Board for the City of Fort Lauderdale.
- Continuing to work to increase Public Realm throughout the City.
- Expanding economic development and revitalization opportunities in an effort to build a strong, sustainable City with thriving communities.
- Serving as the League of Cities appointee to the Broward Cultural Council.
- Working with the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) on the Florida Scenic Highways Program.
- Advocating efforts to protect the Barrier Island from environmental hazards.
Public safety, accountability of tax dollars, redeveloping areas in need, economic development, protecting our natural resources, preserving our history and protecting and enhancing neighborhoods are Charlotte’s ongoing priorities.
Serving as a fulltime Commissioner, Charlotte looks forward to continuing to work to ensure financial stability, maintain essential services, and require accountability of management in the hard economic times ahead. She brings her strong commitment, history and loyalty to the City of Fort Lauderdale, where the welfare of residents, the preservation and protection of quality of life, and the safety and security of neighborhoods remain her top priorities.
She has a unique ability to use her knowledge, goodwill and resources to work successfully with other governmental agencies and effectively communicate and respond to the needs of her diverse District.
A very approachable person who maintains an open-door policy, Charlotte welcomes your input and comments. She encourages you to contact her at 954-828-5004 (office), 954-292-9378 (cell) or by e-mail at crodstrom@fortlauderdale.gov. |
