Hollywood Board Member Resigns After Conflict of Interest Allegations

Stephanie Bendoym faced criticism for soliciting real estate listings from residents upset with her vote on a controversial zoning decision.

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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A member of Hollywood, Florida's Historic Preservation Board, Stephanie Bendoym, has resigned amid allegations of a conflict of interest. Bendoym voted to approve zoning exceptions for a Jewish ritual bath in a residential neighborhood, which was unpopular with many residents. After her vote, Bendoym wrote to nearby homeowners offering real estate services, which was seen as an attempt to profit from her position on the board.

Why it matters

This case highlights the importance of civic volunteers maintaining clear boundaries between their public duties and private business interests. Board and commission appointments are meant to serve the public good, not individual financial gain. Bendoym's actions have raised concerns about transparency and ethics in Hollywood's local government.

The details

Bendoym, a Hollywood real estate agent, voted with the majority on February 10th to approve zoning exceptions allowing for the construction of a mikvah, or Jewish ritual bath, in the single-family Hollywood Lakes neighborhood. This decision was unpopular with over 1,500 residents who signed an online petition against it. After the vote, Bendoym wrote to nearby homeowners offering her real estate services, which was seen as an attempt to profit from her position on the board.

  • On February 10, 2026, Bendoym voted to approve the zoning exceptions for the mikvah.
  • After the vote, Bendoym wrote to nearby residents offering real estate services.
  • On March 4, 2026, Bendoym resigned from the Historic Preservation Board.

The players

Stephanie Bendoym

A member of Hollywood, Florida's Historic Preservation Board who voted to approve zoning exceptions for a controversial mikvah project, then solicited real estate listings from nearby homeowners, leading to allegations of a conflict of interest.

Hollywood Historic Preservation Board

The local government board in Hollywood, Florida that oversees historic preservation and zoning decisions in the city.

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What they’re saying

“At no time have I used, nor intended to use, this civic position to advance any private business interests. Unfortunately, recent circumstances have created a perception that has made it increasingly difficult for me to continue serving in a manner that feels emotionally sustainable.”

— Stephanie Bendoym (Sun Sentinel)

What’s next

The Hollywood City Council will need to appoint a new member to the Historic Preservation Board to fill Bendoym's vacancy.

The takeaway

This case underscores the importance of civic volunteers maintaining clear boundaries between their public duties and private business interests. Bendoym's actions have raised concerns about transparency and ethics in Hollywood's local government, and serve as a cautionary tale for other board and commission members.