Steve Breitkreuz, Mayor, Town of Southwest Ranches

Invest: sat down with Steve Breitkreuz, mayor of the Town of Southwest Ranches, to discuss his vision for the future, highlighting infrastructure improvements, the preservation of rural character, partnerships, and the unique role of equestrian and agricultural industries in shaping the town’s identity and economy.

What are some of the most significant achievements for the town over the last 12 to 18 months?

We’ve had a few large projects in progress and some significant accomplishments along the way. While we haven’t officially closed out many projects, there are a couple we’ve completed. For example, Southwest Ranches is a semi-rural community, and we don’t have the kind of infrastructure our neighboring towns — like Weston or Pembroke Pines — have. As a result, we’ve undertaken drainage projects to address flooding issues.

We’ve secured funds from state and county sources, ARPA (American Rescue Plan Act), and some internal funding to complete substantial drainage projects. While it’s not the most glamorous achievement, when the rainy season hits, people certainly appreciate the results.

We’re also working on two major projects that we’re excited about but haven’t finished yet. One is a partnership with the Broward County School Board and the South Florida Wildlife Center to move their facility from downtown (near the airport) to Southwest Ranches. This is a perfect fit for our community, given our residents’ connection to animals, whether as veterinarians or simply animal lovers. The new location will offer more space and bring with it youth programs and local school initiatives. We’re thrilled about this development.

The second project involves a piece of land we’ve owned as a town for about 10 years. We’re finalizing a private partnership agreement with a significant investor. Once this is completed — which we expect in 2025 — it will make Southwest Ranches the only debt-free town in Broward County. This will be a game-changer, allowing us to lower taxes for our residents and improve financial stability across the board.

How would you describe the current economic and community landscape in Southwest Ranches, especially in balancing the preservation of its semi-rural character while allowing for development?

Southwest Ranches is definitely a town in transition. Historically, we were a rural community of farmers and ranchers. Over the last 40 years, we’ve worked hard to preserve that legacy by requiring that all properties be at least one acre. While some smaller properties are grandfathered in, the majority meet this standard, and any new development must adhere to it.

As mayor, I see it as my responsibility to honor the pioneering spirit of the residents who built this community. They endured challenges like mosquitoes, flooding, and isolation because they valued open spaces, a simpler lifestyle, and limited government interference. This history is a cornerstone of who we are, and we strive to preserve it.

That said, there’s a growing tension as new residents, who are generally affluent and unaccustomed to the rural lifestyle, come in. They’re building magnificent homes on large lots, but their vision of rural living sometimes differs from the original ethos. My goal is to bridge this gap by fostering an appreciation for the traditions and lifestyle that make Southwest Ranches unique.

Interestingly, many newcomers find themselves unexpectedly charmed by our way of life. They see the horses, cattle, sheep, emus, and chickens, and their children fall in love with the rural environment. Over time, even those who didn’t move here for this lifestyle begin to embrace it, which has been wonderful to witness.

It’s truly peaceful. I’ve lived here for 30 years, and even when I was in the corporate world, coming home to the Ranches was like hitting the reset button. Sitting on the back porch and enjoying the view has always been a grounding experience. It’s hard to beat.

How have market changes impacted Southwest Ranches, and what strategies has your office implemented to support residents and businesses?

Our town is unique because we have almost no commercial activity — it’s primarily agricultural and residential. This insulates us from the commercial market swings that affect other towns. However, interest rates and the housing market do impact us. When the market slows, some residents face challenges maintaining their properties, but overall, we remain relatively stable.

Interestingly, when Southwest Ranches was founded, there were concerns about whether we could sustain ourselves financially without commercial businesses. But the large properties here generate substantial tax revenue, which has been more than sufficient. In fact, we have the sixth-lowest tax rate in Broward County despite the lack of commercial income. It’s been an experiment that’s worked out well.

Could you elaborate on the role of equestrian and agricultural industries in shaping the town’s economy and identity?

Equestrian and agricultural industries are at the heart of Southwest Ranches. For decades, we’ve been home to some of South Florida’s premier horse farms, including properties associated with Kentucky Derby winners. Today, we even have two Olympic riders who live here.

Beyond professional equestrian activities, many residents keep horses as part of their family. It adds to the town’s character and community spirit. Agriculture also remains strong here. Unlike most areas in Broward County, Southwest Ranches has the space and tax incentives to support nurseries, farms, and other agricultural businesses. These businesses preserve our open spaces and enhance the town’s rural identity.

We’re in a unique spot — close enough to Miami and Fort Lauderdale for convenience but far enough to offer tranquility. I-75 splits the town in two, so it’s easy to commute while enjoying the open space here. And yes, we do attract some notable residents. For example, Supermodel Gisele B¼ndchen, recently purchased a property here with a full soccer field and numerous sports amenities — it’s a dream for any sports enthusiast.

What are your top priorities, and what legacy do you hope to leave?

Our immediate goals are to finalize the South Florida Wildlife Center relocation, complete the private partnership that will make us debt-free, and develop an Emergency Operations Center to better prepare for hurricanes and other emergencies. Looking further ahead, I want to ensure that Southwest Ranches remains financially secure and true to its roots.

Personally, my legacy goal is to preserve the lifestyle that drew people here in the first place — a community centered around open spaces, animals, agriculture, and a simpler way of life. I want future generations to have the same opportunities to raise their families in this environment, just as my family has.