HomeMy WebLinkAboutSEOPW OMNI CRA 2002-06-27 MinutesCITY OF MIAMI
CRA
MEETING
MINUTES
OF MEETING HELD ON JUNE 27, 2002
PREPARED BY THE OFFICE OF THE CITY CLERK/CITY HALL
Priscilla A. Thompson/City Clerk
4
M
MINUTES OF THE REGULAR BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING OF THE
COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY FOR
SOUTHEAST OVERTOWN/PARK WEST AND OMNI DISTRICTS
On the 27th day of June 2002, the Board of Directors of the Community Redevelopment
Agency for the Southeast Overtown/Park West and Omni Districts of the City of Miami met at
the Old Miami Arena, VIP Room, 701 Arena Boulevard, Miami, Florida.
The meeting was called to order at 8:49 p.m. by Chairman Arthur E. Teele, Jr., with the
following Board Members found to be present:
Chairman Arthur E. Teele, Jr.
Vice Chairman Johnny L. Winton
Board Member Tomas Regalado
Board Member Joe Sanchez
ABSENT:
Board Member Angel Gonzalez
ALSO PRESENT:
Carlos A. Gimenez, City Manager, City of Miami
Frank Rollason, Assistant City Manager, City of Miami
Alejandro Vilarello, City Attorney, City of Miami
Jim Villacorta, Assistant City Attorney, City of Miami
Priscilla A. Thompson, City Clerk, City of Miami
Sylvia Scheider, Assistant City Clerk, City of Miami
Annette Lewis, Executive Director, CRA, City of Miami
Anna Rojas, Chief Deputy Clerk, City of Miami
June 27, 2002
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32 & 33 BRIEF COMMENTS BY CRA CHAIRMAN TEELE REGARDING PROPOSED
RESOLUTION RELATING TO FINANCES AND BUDGET OF CRA AND ROLES OF CITY
AND COUNTY RELATING TO SAME.
DIRECT CRA STAFF TO CONDUCT EXPEDITED NATIONAL SEARCH FOR
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR; REQUEST THAT CHAIRMAN OF CITY COMMISSION BE
DESIGNATED AS HEAD OF SEARCH COMMITTEE.
RECEIVE MONTHLY FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AS OF MAY 30, 2002.
Chairman Regalado: OK. Commissioner Teele.
Chairman Teele: Mr. Chairman, while the staffs change, I just would like to read into the record,
or at least make the Commission aware of pocket item number 3, in which I'm asking that a time
be set aside on July 91" -- I'm not bringing up a pocket item now -- to discuss the finances and
budget of the CRA (Community Redevelopment Agency), specifically, the role of the County, in
approving the budget; two the role of the City, as a CRA fiduciary, by interlocal agreements in
the budgeting process. And, number 3, a discussion of the CRA's audit and the issuance of a
management letter. And, four, timing of the audit of the CRA books. I'm deeply troubled about
certain things that have appeared in the press. I think, you know, if there's concerns that the
Board has, we need to get them all out in the City Commission meeting as opposed to the CRA.
Because the fiduciary of the CRA is the City Finance Department and the City Budget
Department, at this time, at this time. And in that regard, I would inquire of the Manager, for
later on tonight -- is there a representative of the Manager's Office here? I would inquire of the
Manager's Office for an answer tonight regarding the amended budget of the CRA, and when is
it going to be loaded. Because I'm going to tell you, everybody right here, right now, I am not
going to take another newspaper story about Margaret Pace Park -- about Margaret Pace Park not
following the construction schedule, when, in fact, the problem is that the budget amendments
have not been loaded so that the people have been paid, and they're owed two hundred thousand
dollars ($200,000), plus, now. Construction is going to stop if the City does not make the budget
amendments that had been approved by this Commission, and available to be released, based
upon the work being done. And so, you know, I'm a gentleman about this stuff. I know there's
a way to do it. But when people start putting the skunk on the table, let's let the skunk totally on
the table. The budget amendments have not been loaded, and we cannot make payments
pursuant to that, and there are no payments made by the CRA without the City cutting the check.
And if the City's got concerns about the check -- if the City's Budget office or the City Finance
Department, then the way to do it is to bring it up tonight, around 10 o'clock, so we can get this
thing resolved right here tonight, Madam Manager. So, I mean, I'm very serious about this.
Because, you know, this Don Warshaw type of innuendo kind of stuff is going stop, or you're
going to come out and say what you've got to say. Because I've got to tell you, right here, right
now, if there is anything wrong with the finances of the CRA, I want to know about it. But one
damn thing I do know, is that vendors are not being paid because of the incompetence in the City
Budget Department. And the City Budget Department, specifically, when people are not being
paid -- and we've been trying for three months to get the budget amendments loaded. So, let's
figure out tonight why those budget amendments can't be done, as approved by the CRA board,
and let's get these vendors paid. And this whole idea that the City Planning Department takes
credit for everything going right and then, when the construction stops, not one thing has been
2 June 27, 2002
done for Lummus Park. You know, this park, Margaret Pace Park, and the Lummus Park, got
the funding the same day from the Safe Neighborhoods Bond. The same day. The two dollars
came out at the same time. Lummus Park doesn't even have a plan. And now, all we're getting
now is frustration and frustration and frustration, and rumors and innuendos. If there is
something wrong with the budget of the CRA, let's get it out here on the table for July 9`h, and
let's have a discussion on it. Because I'm unaware of it. And I -- with that, I'd like to ask item
number 3, where the outside auditor come forth. Is the outside auditor here, Ms. Director?
Vice Chairman Winton: Is that the regular agenda?
Annette Lewis (Executive Director of CRA): Yes, sir. That's item 4. Yes, sir.
Chairman Teele: This is the CRA, regular agenda, yes.
Board Member Sanchez: Wait.
Chairman Teele: Where's the auditor?
Board Member Sanchez: Where's the agenda? Is that the agenda?
Vice Chairman Winton: I don't have a CRA agenda, that I know of
Chairman Teele: Well, we ought to have extra copies of it. Everybody ought to have one. I
asked for a separate one, too. I'm out here with all this other stuff. Where are some extra copies
of the agenda? Yes, sir. Welcome.
Kenneth Deon: I'll introduce myself. My name is Ken Deon. I'm with KPMG (Klynveld, Peat,
Marwick, Goerdeler) at 2 South Biscayne Tower, in Miami.
Chairman Teele: This is the item that was deferred for --
Vice Chairman Winton: Audit.
Donovan McGinley: Donovan McGinley, KPMG, 2 South Biscayne Boulevard, Miami, Florida.
Vice Chairman Winton: Do you mind if I ask the first question?
Chairman Teele: Yes, sir. Please.
Vice Chairman Winton: We don't have a management letter for, let's see, the 2000 audit year,
and this is July of 2002. We don't have -- my understanding is, we don't have the 2001 audit
done, at all, and it's July 2002. So, I'm really bothered that we don't have this year's or last
year's audit done. I'm particularly bothered that we don't have the management letter from
2000. And you guys, remember, y'all sat in my office and I said, specifically, when you
presented the budget to me -- what -- God, that was a year ago. Easily a year ago. And I said,
"Where is the management letter?" You said, "We're working on it." "When are you going to
3 June 27, 2002
have it?" "Soon." And now, then, we're at least a year since y'all sat in my office and we talked
about it, and we have no management letter. So, I don't get it. Either we're doing something
wrong or y'all are doing something wrong. And as Commissioner Teele says -- and I agree with
him 100% -- I think we need all the stuff on the table. I'm not afraid to hear the truth, wherever
that truth might be. In fact, that's what I want to hear. I want to hear the real facts, the real truth,
whether it's the City or the CRA or whatever. I don't give a damn. I just want to know the facts.
Period. So, what's up with the management letter?
Mr. Deon: Well, Commissioner --
Alejandro Vilarello (City Attorney): Mr. Chairman, we've recessed the regular agenda, and now
have started the CRA agenda, just for the record.
Chairman Teele: CRA regular agenda. The special agenda is the item -- the CRA regular
agenda. And I would like the record to note that the County budget snoop is watching
everything, and he's a wonderful gentleman. He's here and been here all day. And it's nine
o'clock, and he's entitled the overtime over the County. Thank you, Mr. Marcus, for being here.
Mr. Deon: With respect to the 2000 management letter for the CRA, the CRA has had the
management letter, in draft, since March of this year. And we just were notified Tuesday by
CRA to issue the management letter in final.
Vice Chairman Winton: OK. Commissioner Teele, just so you know, I asked Ms. Lewis, point
blank -- I don't know how long ago, but it's not that long. Certainly wasn't March. Just in the
last two or three weeks -- where there management letter is. And she did not tell me that the
management letter was sitting in our office.
Ms. Lewis: Sir, let me correct that. We had the management letter -- actually, I responded to
KPMG back in December/January with my comments to the management letter. There were still
some outstanding items with the '99, post 2000. And at that point, we had discussed, with the
senior, on location, that I would not be able to respond, and that we should issue. And then I
ended up getting a draft, the same draft that --
Vice Chairman Winton: But that's what you should have told me then. I mean, that's what I
should have heard. I'm not -- I don't want to be made at anybody. I don't want to be -- I just
want to know the facts, the truth. So that once we get it, then I can deal with something. I mean
not -- you know, whether it's the City, whether it's us, in, the CRA, you know --
Mr. Deon: Can I just -- you know, I don't want to get into a debate, you know, with CRA
management. I really, really would want to turn this into a more constructive --
Vice Chairman Winton: Great.
Mr. Deon: -- discussion on where the problems are, and, more importantly, how to correct them.
Vice Chairman Winton: Great.
4 June 27, 2002
Mr. Deon: The fiscal year 2000 audit, we started field work, I believe, in early 2001, and I think
that's when we talked. And what we saw was that, basically, over about a year period, the CRA
had two or three different accountants go through the organization, none that were very familiar
with the operations of the CRA, and the operations of the City. A number -- the bottom line was,
the books never really got closed. We went in. We started an audit. We couldn't complete the
audit. We leave the field. We send letters. We call PBC lists. This is, you know, pre--
Annette's time, in 2001. Nothing really ever got accomplished. I actually sent a letter twice, I
believe, in 2001, to the then Executive Director, asking him saying, "Look, we'll help you close
the books. We'll provide you the staff necessary for you to close the books, so we can complete
the audit." And because of budget restraints -- at least, this is what we were told -- they didn't
hire us to help them close the books, and so on and so forth. And what we've seen in 2000 and a
carryover in 2001 is, they don't -- you don't have enough staff there to handle the accounting
records and the financial reporting. I mean, the CRA has grown, obviously, since you've been
involved, Commissioner, over a two-year period, and you're getting a lot more complicated
transactions, and you don't have the staff available to handle the basic bookkeeping. And you
hired KPMG to come and to do an audit, to render an opinion on financial statements. The
financial statements for the year 2000 or 2001 weren't even drafted -- 2000 was drafted at the
end of 2001. And now at the 2001 financial statements, they're now in draft. However, they are
still -- there are still journal entries being made by the CRA to, again, close the books. And a lot
of that -- you know, they're timing issues with the City of Miami, in terms of accounts payable
and unrecorded liabilities. Things like that. Typical, you know, year-end closing procedures that
you do. You just don't have -- you don't have the staff. And I suggest, whatever you end up
doing going forward, you have to hire somebody that's qualified --
Board Member Sanchez: Who doesn't have the staff?
Mr. Deon: The CRA doesn't have the accounting staff necessary to maintain the books and
records, and prepare the financial statements. And right now, my -- and correct me if I'm wrong
-- my understanding is, the person in charge of handling the basic bookkeeping, right now, is
your Executive Director. And, obviously, you know, your Executive Director --
Vice Chairman Winton: She can't do it all. Can't do both.
Mr. Deon: -- should be functioning as an Executive Director, not as a bookkeeper. That's the
problem we've run into. And I apologize for the lateness of it. That's, you know --
Vice Chairman Winton: Well, do you have a recommendation in terms of how we get caught
up? I understand the recommendation, which is to hire appropriate staff --
Mr. Deon: Right.
Vice Chairman Winton: -- moving forward. What would your --
Mr. Deon: What -- what we have --
5 June 27, 2002
am
Vice Chairman Winton: -- recommendation be to get caught up so that we get --
Mr. Deon: Commissioner, we have --
Board Member Sanchez: Sir, let me ask you --
Mr. Deon: Sure.
Board Member Sanchez: -- a question. Has that always been -- when you looked at the book --
Mr. Deon: Well --
Board Member Sanchez: -- has that always been the policy, that the Executive Director was
basically running?
Chairman Teele: No, no, no.
Mr. Deon: No, no. They've had two or three accountants. I don't remember the gentleman's
name that was actually fired once and hired again to come back, and he just was recently fired
again.
Chairman Teele: Wait, wait, wait. Hold it, hold it, hold it. Let me try to put this in a little bit
different context. One of the challenges that we have had from -- and I would hope that Oscar
Coralle is listening to this -- one of the challenges that we had is that when I took over as
Chairman of the CRA, the administrative budget of the CRA was one point four million dollars
($1,400,000) for staff. We took that number down to 380 to four hundred thousand dollars
($400,000). I don't deny that, OK? We had people on detail for Parks Department that were
making over eighty thousand dollars ($80,000). 1 mean, I can go through the list of what
happened. I assumed that, if you had a person that had had budget experience with the City, who
came over as the Executive Director, that the records and the books would be primarily focused.
Remember, between '98, '99, and 2000, the CRA has primarily been engaged in consulting
studies, developing a master plan, developing the framework for what it is we're trying to begin
to launch. And we have been always heavy on the planning side and on the design side, and
light on the operations side. It has only been within the last six months that we've even hired
operational staff, that is, people to go out and do projects. I think Mr. Hernandez, not to single
you out, was the first operational person that we brought in. I want to make the Board aware of
the fact that a person who served in the City for over 15 years, who served at the highest levels
of the City of Miami, in finance and budget, was the director during this period of time. And to
that extent -- you know, I may have made some bad judgments. I think the focus of what is
being said now -- and this is why I want to put all of this on the table -- the focus of what is being
said now, is that the person that is laboring totally unfairly in this process is Annette Lewis, who
was not hired to be an Executive Director, who was hired as the Finance Director from the City
of Homestead, and had served in the City of Miami in the Budget and Finance Office for 12
years or so. And I think the question that, you know, I would like to proffer is "A" -- can you
work with Ms. Lewis in the context of her serving as a comptroller and Chief Financial Budget
person for the CRA?
6 June 27, 2002
Mr. Deon: The answer, Commissioner, is, yes, I can.
Chairman Teele: I mean, the fact that she's a CPA (Certified Public Accountant) that may -- you
know, she may have got the degree from, you know, Sears. I mean, I don't mean that
disrespectful. But, I mean, you know, at this point in time where we all are with Enron, with
Worldspan, MCI (Microwave Corporation Incorporated) -- I mean, you know, this is the ugly
side of being the accountant. I mean, you know, and accountants all over the world are going to
be --
Vice Chairman Winton: And we don't want the next headline to be CRA.
Chairman Teele: Well -- and that's certainly the -- you know, where -- so, the question, I think,
is not that. I think the question is -- and I don't want to say this disrespectful of Ms. Lewis,
because I have confidence in Ms. Lewis' financial abilities. I believe that the CRA must not
continue to try to save money, but we must go out for an Executive Director, who can run the
operations, and allow Ms. Lewis to continue to function in the role that she was hired, which is
that as the Deputy Director, responsible for the finances of the CRA. And I apologize, Ms.
Lewis, because I've not discussed this with you, you know. But this is a different time, as
evidenced by yesterday's and today's headlines, as evidenced by the kinds of, you know,
innuendos and rumors. Because this is what happened -- and I'm just going to put it out there --
the City closed the books of the City last year. We have the same auditor -- and you need to be
totally candid, sir. You're the City auditor, right?
Mr. Deon: I am.
Chairman Teele: You're also the CRA auditor, right?
Mr. Deon: We are.
Chairman Teele: You all allowed the books to be closed by the City, and certain charges and
certain -- which you're making reference to now about the slowness of -- certain entries were not
properly recorded, and we've got a standoff. Because my position is real clear: If the City is the
fiduciary for us, they've got an interest in protecting us. And they can't close the book and make
it look like there was a shortage, when there was no shortage. And they just made some
mistakes. You all made some mistakes. We were slow in doing it, but the fact remains, those
books should have never been closed until we did, and you all did your work. And so, the
question is, can you all work with Ms. Lewis? And do you have -- and my question, do you have
confidence that she is able to manage the financial affairs of the CRA, if she were not obstructed
with the duties as Executive Director?
Mr. Deon: Commissioner, I know Annette Lewis. I've worked with Annette Lewis since 1996,
I believe, and I have complete confidence in her ability to serve as -- I call her comptroller or
Chief Financial Officer, whatever title you want to make her, as long as she is focused totally on
the accounting, reporting, and financial information of the CRA. She cannot serve in dual roles.
7 June 27, 2002
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It can't -- it does not work. She doesn't -- there's not enough time in the day for her to do that or
anybody.
Board Member Sanchez: Mr. Chairman.
Chairman Teele: I apologize. Commissioner Winton had the floor, and then Commissioner
Sanchez.
Board Member Sanchez: Oh, I'm sorry.
Vice Chairman Winton: They have, indirectly, answered my question. So, Commissioner
Sanchez -- I guess the Chairman's gone now, isn't he?
Board Member Sanchez: Yes.
Vice Chairman Winton: Oh, no. The Chairman's here. I'm in the wrong --
Board Member Sanchez: Well --
Vice Chairman Winton: Which hat do I have on, CRA?
Board Member Sanchez: I know. I just got confused, too.
Chairman Teele: CRA.
Board Member Sanchez: That's why I answered. Well, first of all, Commissioner Teele, let me
commend you for what you've done at the CRA, and I know it has not been an easy task. I am a
little concerned with, you know, having -- you had one of the top individuals that were here in
the City for many years, Mr. -- and let's not name any names. But he was the Budget Director
and he went over the CRA, and I would assume that maybe he would have seen some of these
red flags popped up. And for whatever reasons, they were not. You know, Commissioner Teele
brought it out, with all the things that are going on with Enron and all these things and, you
know, we have a fiduciary responsibility. We sit on that board, and we protect the shareholders,
just like a member of any board does. But we protect the taxpayers, because this is the
taxpayers' money. I am concerned -- I have always said this, there have been many times in the
CRA that I have voted against an issue, because I felt that I was improperly informed, there was
a lack of information, and I realize now, that coming down the pike, has been maybe -- the CRA
may not have the adequate staff. What I like to propose is to maybe have -- you know, we
should put everything on the table and get out the skunk, or whatever you want to say, and have
a complete analysis to look into the CRA, and find out if we have the adequate staff. Have
somebody come back with a recommendation, as we've put on the table today. Maybe Ms.
Lewis would be the finance, and we could hire an Executive Director. But, you know, we have
to, right now, open up the beast, digest the beast, and put it back together. Because I'm telling
you, tomorrow's newspaper article -- Oscar's writing away on his laptop right now, and it's
going to be about the CRA. And I'm very concerned, as a board member, one who has voted on
issues pertaining to the CRA, whether the City has not beefed up the budget or loaded the budget
8 June 27, 2002
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or whatever it may be, those disputes. All those things need to be put on the table, because the
last thing that we need now is people to question the board members, the Executive Director, or
the Chairman of the CRA, because the CRA has accomplished things. It really has. It has not
accomplished its whole mission. I'm the first one to say it. But, you know, this is something
that is not going to help the CRA, and it's sure not going help the City in this time.
Chairman Teele: Mr. Chairman, I should say to Commissioner Regalado, we voted four months
ago, five months ago -- I'll get the resolution -- asking that an Executive Director search be done.
I think, you know, right after that, there was a vacancy at DDA (Downtown Development
Authority), and the person went ahead with that. I would like to recommend and move that the
Chairman of the City Commission be designated as the head of a search committee, to work with
Ms. Lewis and with the Personnel Department of the City, and whatever resources, and to go out,
on an expedited basis, for an Executive Director, with no disrespect and reflection on Ms. Lewis.
But I think we all recognize what the accountants have said. If she has the time, she can do the
job she was hired to do. So, this is no reflection on Ms. Lewis, directly or indirectly. But the
fact of the matter is, I think we've been penny-wise and pound foolish on that. So,
Commissioner, would you --
Board Member Regalado: Mr. Chairman, could you define what is it that you want me to do?
Chairman Teele: I think the first and the most important thing is that -- it doesn't make any
sense to start talking about -- we know where the problem is. And the Executive Director is the
person who needs to make those management recommendations, working with the Deputy
Director, and the staff. We have a clear shortfall, on the operational side and the so-called
construction and administrative side, that we've all recognized that we've done. I mean, I have
been trying to spend money, not on staff, as I'm always talking about, but on projects. You
know, the fact -- I sat here and listened, just a few moments ago, about putting the thing on
Bicentennial Park. Well, the CRA -- instead of coming to the City, the CRA paid money out for
police to protect Big Time and to protect the clubs. I mean, you know, we have a different
mission and a different role. And our role is to try to build the tax base, and those businesses that
are out there. And so, I just think we ought to recognize that my focus may have been
inappropriate, and that is, I am against hiring staff before you need them. I believe in hiring
consultants. And I had that conversation with Carlos McDonald yesterday. So, we know that we
need a full-time Executive Director. I think it's important that the Chairman of the Commission,
basically, take that role. And I would ask you, respectfully, if we could do that on a very, very
open and transparent basis? But, you know, this isn't rocket science here. We've heard from the
management people. They say we don't have enough staff, we don't have enough time for Ms.
Lewis, and I would ask you to make the motion, please.
Board Member Sanchez: Mr. Chairman, I would so move that the CRA go out on a national
search for an Executive Director. So moved.
Chairman Teele: In a punctuated timeframe. I mean, you can do a national search. I'm for that.
But I don't think we ought to take five -- three months to do it. We ought to ask the Director --
the Chairman to use the resources of the City to move forward on that.
9 June 27, 2002
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Vice Chairman Winton: I'll second the motion. But a point here, and this point is very, very
important. If there isn't agreement in terms of what the job description is for this person, you're
not going to find it. You need to understand very clearly what the person's skill sets need to be,
and what their job description is going to be.
Board Member Sanchez: Johnny, that --
Vice Chairman Winton: And if we don't have that, you can't find whatever it is you're looking
for. So, I don't know if we have that anywhere.
Board Member Sanchez: I'm sure that someone could draft or craft a job description of what the
Executive Director is going to do. I'm just saying that, right now, the CRA is an agency that's in
question. People are going to question, after the statements that are made here. And I think that
hiring an Executive Director, a qualified Executive Director, someone who could come in and,
very independent, to do what is supposed to do, is crucial right now. If you look at just about
every agency, such as the School Board, and all other kinds of agencies, right now they're
basically looking -- going out there and trying to attract the most qualified independent person
they could find.
Chairman Teele: We have a motion. We have a second.
Board Member Gonzalez: Discussion on the motion.
Chairman Teele: Discussion. Commissioner Gonzalez.
Board Member Gonzalez: Yeah, I'll be supporting the motion. But the only thing that I have a
problem with is, when we say, "Let's have a national search." I mean, we have one of the
highest unemployment rates in this County and in this City, particularly. I'm sure there is plenty,
plenty of competent people coming out of the universities, and with all kind of degrees locally
here, that we have to go to Boston or New York or Chicago or California to find somebody to do
the work. That is my only concern.
Board Member Sanchez: Call the question.
Chairman Teele: The question has been called. All those in favor, say "aye."
The Board Members (Collectively): Aye.
Chairman Teele: All opposed?
10 June 27, 2002
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The following motion was introduced by Board Member Sanchez, who moved for its adoption:
SEOPW/CRA MOTION NO. 02-115
OMNI MOTION NO. 02-50
A MOTION DIRECTING THE CRA STAFF TO CONDUCT AN
EXPEDITED NATIONAL SEARCH FOR AN EXECUTIVE
DIRECTOR; FURTHER REQUESTING THAT THE CHAIRMAN OF
THE CITY COMMISSION BE DESIGNATED AS THE HEAD OF A
SEARCH COMMITTEE, WORKING WITH MS. ANNETTE LEWIS,
INTERIM DIRECTOR OF THE CRA, AS WELL AS THE CITY'S
PERSONNEL DEPARTMENT, ON SAID SEARCH.
(Here follows body of motion, omitted here and on file in the Office of the City Clerk.)
Upon being seconded by Vice Chairman Winton, the motion was passed and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Chairman Arthur E. Teele, Jr.
Vice Chairman Johnny L. Winton
Board Member Angel Gonzalez
Board Member Joe Sanchez
Board Member Tomas Regalado
NAYS: None.
ABSENT: None.
Vice Chairman Winton: Mr. Chairman.
Chairman Teele: I would -- Commissioner -- Board Member Winton.
Vice Chairman Winton: I want to go back to the management letter.
Chairman Teele: Before you do, I would just say this. I really believe that redevelopment
authorities, across this state, have ample information. We've very fortunate to have Russ, with
LISC (Local Initiative Support Corporation), who's on the board of Florida Redevelopment
Association, David Cardwell is the Executive Director -- I mean, the General Counsel. And I
think, if Ms. Lewis will work closely with them and with personnel, we can do that. But I'm
very much in agreement that a state search is probably better than a national search, because
redevelopment authorities are unique to Florida in this sense, tax increment districts. I mean,
you know, there's all sorts of ways to do it, and --
Board Member Sanchez: They're all over the United States.
11 June 27, 2002
Chairman Teele: Well, they're all over the United States, but they have different funding
mechanisms to do it. And I would only simply say that I would hope that the Chairman would
take all of the board members' concerns and come immediately and move forward with all
dispatch. Commissioner Winton.
Board Member Regalado: Well, I just question, because I still don't know exactly what you
want me to do. But a question to the Attorney: Can I request a written something from the
board members, telling me how they see the role of the Executive Director? And then we go --
Chairman Teele: As long as a copy is filed with the Clerk. It's always been the opinion of the
Attorney that members could write each other letters. You can't agree on anything.
Mr. Vilarello: My understanding was that you're hiring a search firm to conduct a search. Each
Commissioner can certainly advise the search firm, in writing.
Board Member Regalado: I don't know about the search firm here. I don't know. What I
thought that I understood was that we want an expedite search for a new Executive Director,
working with Ms. Lewis. And also, I thought that what you expected was that the Human
Resource Department --
Chairman Teele: Exactly.
Board Member Regalado: -- of the City will help draft all the --
Board Member Sanchez: A job description.
Board Member Regalado: -- job description details of that person. And, then, with City
resources and CRA resources, publicize -- you know, publish that --
Chairman Teele: You're not limited to that, but that's absolutely the case. And if you want to
take the City Attorney's advice and hire an agency, we will certainly convene a board, at your
request, for five minutes --
Board Member Regalado: I mean -- because -- Arthur --
Chairman Teele: -- on that. I mean --
Board Member Regalado: Mr. Chairman, if we hire a search firm, it's fine by me. It's nothing I
have to do, other than, you know, ask the Executive Director, on an expedite basis, to hire a
search firm. But I thought that what you wanted is major input from board members, saying, you
know, an Executive Director should do this and this. We feel that he or she should focus on
development or construction or whatever, and then give all that information to the Human
Resources Department, and then the Human Resource Department will give us an idea of what
we're looking.
12 June 27, 2002
Vice Chairman Winton: You have to do that, whether you use Human Resources or a search
firm, either case.
Chairman Teele: It doesn't matter.
Vice Chairman Winton: Whoever looks for them, has to have that kind of input.
Mr. Vilarello: Commissioner, I was simply trying to address --
Vice Chairman Winton: And --
Mr. Vilarello: -- how to communicate that information. I didn't mean to suggest you should use
a search firm. If you wanted to use the Human Resources, just each Commissioner can provide
Human Resources with those things, which you think are important as they conduct their search.
Vice Chairman Winton: And, Commissioner Regalado, I spent quite a few hours, probably a
year ago, with the Human Resources Department, crafting a job description. So, my input,
probably is already with Human Resources.
Board Member Regalado: Would you agree to do that next week, after we get the written details
Angela Bellamy (Department of Human Resources): The job description. Yes, Commissioner,
we have that information, and we can make that available tomorrow. We have that.
Board Member Regalado: No. But we want you to draft --
Chairman Teele: Yes.
Board Member Regalado: -- some input of the five members of the Board.
Ms. Bellamy: Right. Exactly. That's what I was saying. We could provide what we have just
to start, and then we can get input from you, so that we can have a final.
Board Member Regalado: OK. We'll do it, starting Monday.
Chairman Teele: And while you're doing that, I wish you would give a matrix of the salaries of
the directors and assistant managers and senior staff and personnel. Because one of the things I
want to tell you that really bothers me. Ms. Lewis is one of the most underpaid people in this
entire governmental bureaucracy, between the City of Miami and the CRA, and I apologize,
publicly, because I didn't want to deal with the finance issue, but there's two sides to this thing,
too. Ms. Lewis is probably 30% underpaid right now, based upon comparable people in the City
with a degree. And one of the things that she said, when she came was that she was looking for a
salary adjustment. And I said, this is not the time or the place, because I am a chief person when
it comes to, basically, hiring people. I just think that we spend all of our money going through
personnel, and that's neither here nor there. But I do wish you would, as a part of this Executive
13 June 27, 2002
Director thing, look at a salary structure, for example, of assistant managers and department
directors.
Ms. Bellamy: OK. I think what we would do is look at a comparable position, and compare
other executive level positions --
Chairman Teele: In the City of Miami --
Ms. Bellamy: --and --
Chairman Teele: -- as well as other redevelopment authorities.
Ms. Bellamy: Exactly. Yes, yes.
Vice Chairman Winton: Correct. Correct. Absolutely.
Chairman Teele: Because I can tell you right now -- I mean, you know, I was astonished to see
the salaries of some of the people. I mean, you know, I thought like I was seeing ghost of Suarez
coming -- Mayor Suarez coming, but -- you know, he used to always rave about the salaries.
Commissioner Winton. Board Member Winton.
Vice Chairman Winton: Back to the management letter. The 2000 management letter is in the
hands of the CRA.
Mr. Deon: That is correct, Commissioner.
Vice Chairman Winton: And so, you're waiting for a response. It seems to me that that
management letter needs to get into the hands of the Board, so that we can know what the issues
are. You might need to meet with each of us, individually, to walk through the issues. But that
thing needs to get finalized, so that you can put the 2000 audit to bed.
Mr. Deon: We'll meet with each one of you and talk about what we've -- what we noted during
the 2000 audit and 2001 audit.
Vice Chairman Winton: Right. But the management letter you're going to get --
Mr. Deon: Right.
Vice Chairman Winton: There is no management letter on the 2001 audit, because the 2001
audit is not done.
Mr. Deon: Right.
Vice Chairman Winton: So, the 2000 audit is done, and the management letter now, at least it's -
14 June 27, 2002
Mr. Deon: Issued.
Vice Chairman Winton: -- issued, and you're waiting on responses back?
Mr. Deon: No. We're -- it is -- we issued the management letter.
Vice Chairman Winton: Oh.
Mr. Deon: -- OK. I'm sorry. My manager just corrected me. The management letter is going --
is in draft, and is going to be issued tomorrow.
Vice Chairman Winton: That's what I thought. OK.
Mr. Deon: It's all done. In fact, I've got the bound copy right here.
Vice Chairman Winton: Well, then, let me ask you a question.
Mr. Deon: Sure.
Vice Chairman Winton: If it's going to be issued tomorrow -- why wasn't it issued months ago?
I mean, what --
Mr. Deon: We were waiting for a response --
Chairman Teele: When you talked to me, you told me that you were waiting on responses from
some lawyers and some this and that, and I said, "Make sure this thing is done right." That was
my instruction to you.
Mr. Deon: That -- right. That was referred -- what we were talking about, Commissioner, was
responses from the attorneys on the audit, not on the -- not the management responses on the
management letter.
Chairman Teele: I stand corrected.
Vice Chairman Winton: OK.
Mr. Deon: OK. And we waited --
Vice Chairman Winton: So, my question still holds. Why couldn't this management letter be --
why wasn't this thing issued months and months and months ago?
Mr. Deon: Because the -- we had not received the current year management responses, until --
Annette, and help me with this -- December/January of this year.
Ms. Lewis: Right.
15 June 27, 2002
Mr. Deon: And, then we have prior year management letter comments that require an update and
a response from management for the current year, to see where they stood. And we did get
those.
Vice Chairman Winton: But you now have all of those?
Mr. Deon: No.
Vice Chairman Winton: OK. So, you don't have them. You didn't get them. And so you're
just publishing --
Mr. Deon: Right.
Vice Chairman Winton: -- the management letter that will have all of those things in it?
Mr. Deon: That's right.
Vice Chairman Winton: All right. Fine.
Mr. Deon: That's correct.
Ms. Lewis: One second. I just -- Let's just get that clear, because in this 2000 management
letter, the only things that I did not address, which we've spoken about, is the previous, which, if
memory serves me, is '97 through'99 items.
Mr. Deon: Right. Commissioner, they still exist. The observations that we had '99 and 2000, a
number of them still exist.
Vice Chairman Winton: Good. Just get them out, so we can -- -you know, if it exists, it exists,
just so we know. And then we can deal with it. If we don't know, we can't deal with it. And
now, finishing up the 2000 budget, we've agreed y'all are going to work directly with Ms. Lewis
now, and we're going to get the 2000 budget done. And the 2000 -- budget. I'm sorry -- 2000
audit, and that will be completed by when?
Ms. Lewis: Well, sir, the fieldwork is already completed. We're -- some journal entries that we
need to resolve, and the issuance of the management letter, as far as that's done, in 2001.
Mr. Deon: I mean, I'll go on record.
Vice Chairman Winton: Please.
Mr. Deon: If we receive -- there's a -- let's say receive the responses that we need to support for
the journal entries that we've asked for -- I'll go on record, and we can issue that financial
statement and management letter in two weeks.
Vice Chairman Winton: Perfect.
16 June 27, 2002
Chairman Teele: Well, let's say prior to the --
Mr. Deon: I know --
Chairman Teele: -- board meeting. You know, let's --
Board Member Sanchez: Could you meet with us before the 91", with each of us, independently?
Mr. Deon: Absolutely.
Board Member Sanchez: Before the 91"?
Mr. Deon: Absolutely.
Vice Chairman Winton: OK. So, two weeks. I think Commissioner Teele is suggesting that
it's, what, three weeks? Or whatever it is.
Chairman Teele: No, no. I'm just saying, we ought to be -- make sure we meet with each of the
individual --
Vice Chairman Winton: Oh, OK. Good.
Chairman Teele: -- board members. I mean, this is a very --
Vice Chairman Winton: But you'll -- so, you'll be done in two weeks. And, you know, we get
what we get. So, that's what I would love to have.
Mr. Deon: We'll be done when -- we will be done --
Vice Chairman Winton: So, it'll be the audit -- the 2001 audit and the management letter will be
issued simultaneously --
Mr. Deon: That's correct.
Vice Chairman Winton: -- so that we have it all.
Mr. Deon: That's correct.
Vice Chairman Winton: Thank you.
Chairman Teele: Ms. Lewis, is there anything that you would like to say to clarify any point?
Because, again, I'm -- this whole discussion has erupted, and I apologize, because I've not had
any opportunity to discuss any of this with you or, at least, where we are at this point. And, so, I
do want to reiterate, again, that when you came to the CRA, you came as a Deputy Director and
the Comptroller, with the understanding that you would be working under the Executive
17 June 27, 2002
Director, who, under this period of time, was a person who I felt should have been
knowledgeable about the City. I'm really shocked in some ways, to hear the report that the
person was not familiar with the City procedures. But, in any event, is there anything that you
would like to say to further --
Vice Chairman Winton: I have another suggestion, Commissioner Teele. Because these jobs,
and CRA more so than any other, are virtually unfair to any of us serve as Chairman of, any of
us. I mean, this job that you have, as Chairman of the CRA, is huge. This is a --
Chairman Teele: It doesn't have to be, Johnny. You know what? Because when I got to the
CRA, the CRA was nothing. We'd have a board meeting and wouldn't three people show up.
As soon as some money, and soon as you'd start talking about changing land use policy and
trying to create -- we went out and we created the NAP (Network Area Point).
Vice Chairman Winton: Right.
Chairman Teele: We created the NAP. We created the legislation for the NAP, you know.
Vice Chairman Winton: I'm not arguing those points.
Chairman Teele: And the fact of the matter is --
Vice Chairman Winton: I agree 100%.
Chairman Teele: -- there wouldn't have ever been a NAP in the State of Florida, if we hadn't
gone to the chairman of the committee with our lobbyists and written the legislation in
Tallahassee that created the statewide competition for a NAP.
Vice Chairman Winton: So --
Chairman Teele: And the chairman is available to testify on this. But this is the point: The
thing that really bothers me about this City is the Carollo/Warshaw mentality, just is so pervasive
in that it was well known that the previous mayor wanted the CRA out of existence. In fact, the
Commission voted to put it out of existence. And that kind of stumbling blocks everything,
especially in the -- under one of the assistant managers. Everything that comes through that
Assistant Manager's office is a stumbling block for the CRA. And, I mean, everybody knows
what's going on. Because this is the same old Carollo engineered strategy that's going on. And
I'm prepared to take the skunk from under the table, and, from now on, I'm going to fight this
thing out publicly. I'm not going to quit. That's number one. I am not going to quit. But the
fact of the matter is, is that staff have been instructed, "Turn this down. Don't approve this
funding. Don't do that," you know. And staff will come and testify to that point. So, the fact of
the matter is, is that if the City doesn't want to have a great community, then fine. But I'm going
to do everything I can for the little area that I've got to be responsible for, to continue to do the
best I can for this, Johnny. Because what is happening is, the old Miami agenda is coming -- is
still alive, and I'm aware of it, much of the City staff is aware of it, the Manager's aware of it,
you know. And the fact of the matter is, is that this is the ghost of Joe Carollo, in many ways
18 June 27, 2002
that is going on. So, here we go. And I am, basically, taking a position very clearly, at this
point, that the CRA is going to operate extremely transparent. For somebody to write, you know,
that we make decisions without the public, there's not an organization in this time that deals with
public policy issues in a more transparent way than we do. We're not sitting here now as the
City of Miami. We're sitting here just like the St. John's CDC (Community Development
Corporation) or Tacolcy, or any other organization. We've got a job to do, and our job is
redevelopment. Our job isn't to give out money and to deal with all of the kinds of things that
we wind up getting sidetracked with. Our program is very public. There is not one thing that
has been appropriated, to my knowledge, that is not in the budget, if somebody wants to read it.
And I sat there today with very well thought out people, who were saying, "there are some things
going on." I showed it to them in the '99 budget. I mean, so -- the point here is, if people want
us to operate in a transparent manner, I don't know how we can do it, Johnny. This is a public
meeting. Every meeting we have is public. But the CRA is not here as the City Commission.
Everything that people want to come down and complain about, they need to come, not to the
CRA, but to the City Commission. Because the CRA's role is not to do anything, but to enhance
the geographic -- the small geographic area that we're talking about, over and above the City.
We don't replace the City. We don't transplant the City. The City functions all remain the
same.
Vice Chairman Winton: But here's the problem that you have, as the Chairman of the CRA.
The comment you made just now about the City being certainly a part of the reason for some of
the problems we have within the CRA. I'm on -- I'm the Vice Chairman of the Board of the
CRA. And you clearly understand all of the stuff that you're talking about, but as the Vice
Chairman, I don't understand this stuff, which is my fault. It isn't your fault.
Chairman Teele: Johnny, you understand the DDA.
Vice Chairman Winton: It's -- it's --
Chairman Teele: You understand the kinds of obstacles that the City has put in the DDA's path.
You understand that the City doesn't want downtown to have money for capital development.
Vice Chairman Winton: But that --
Chairman Teele: You understand all of that.
Vice Chairman Winton: Wait, wait, wait, wait. But here's what I'm trying -- the point I'm
trying to make to you. I want only one thing: Always the facts, period. Facts. And I'm willing
to go to war with anybody I need to go to war with, armed with the appropriate facts. I'm not
armed with the appropriate facts, which is part my problem. I can't sit here and say,
"Commissioner Teele, you're 100% right about what the City is...," because I don't know the
facts the way you know the facts. And so --
Board Member Sanchez: And staff.
Chairman Teele: But, Johnny, let's just take one small issue.
19 June 27, 2002
Vice Chairman Winton: All right.
Chairman Teele: You have Margaret Pace Park. That's in your district.
Vice Chairman Winton: Right.
Chairman Teele: I fight for it, not because it's in my district. Because it's a part of the
redevelopment strategy. Margaret Pace Park is going to do more to induce development around
that park than the Performing Arts Center is going to do, in that general area. In the general area
along River Drive there, Margaret Pace Park is going to be the magnet. Why, in the name of
God, if you care as Vice Chairman -- and I'm not putting this on you -- but if you care, you're
the Chairman of the Margaret Pace Park. You should want to know why the damn budget office
won't load the budget, so that the people can be paid.
Vice Chairman Winton: But there's the point. I didn't even know that. I don't know that. So,
the only time -- every time I get involved in Margaret Pace Park is when there's a new crisis, and
most of the time the crisis revolved around something that was going on within the CRA, not the
City. And, so, the point you just make there, where it's a City -- I don't even know that, and
that's -- that really -- what I'm trying to say is, that is the point. I don't know all of this stuff. I
need to know and understand more of this stuff, like you do, so that we can get the right answer
all the time. And I don't know exactly how to do that, other than spend a lot more time. I really
don't. I would like to know more. Because I think that with your creative Chairman -of -the -
Board -kind of vision and leadership, and with some of us down here at this lower level, where
we can make real things happen, and with having money in the till, I think we can do wonders.
But the problem is, we're not -- I can't help you the way I ought to be able to help you, because
I'm just not where I need to be, from a knowledge standpoint. That's what I'm trying to say.
Board Member Sanchez: Mr. Chairman, just to bring some light to this. One of the issues is that
Ms. Lewis, who is the Executive Director, has to spend her time being the Executive Director
and keeping the books. So, she can't meet with us at times to provide us information. Maybe
that's a problem. The other problem is, what I often complain, is not getting the agendas on
time, getting them sometimes one, two, sometimes the day you show up at the meeting, and then
they are poorly backed up, there are no back up materials, there is -- I mean, very, very, poorly
backed up. And it puts us in a situation where, you know -- you know, we have a responsibility.
So, maybe the issue itself is staffing, whether you have the appropriate staff to run the CRA. I
don't know. He's the Chairman and the Executive Director. If you have the right people to
prepare the agenda, get it ready, get it to you on time, have somebody sit down and explain it to
you -- because the bottom line here is, I'm telling you -- and I say this all the time, and they
laugh at me -- we're part-time stupid on this Commission. We are part time stupid on this
Commission, because I have to work.
Board Member Gonzalez: No more. Not anymore. Full time.
Board Member Sanchez: You know, I have to work. So, the little time that I'm here, the
Administration, you know, sits down with me and explains the agenda. But then, again, the City
20 June 27, 2002
agenda is backed up with material, you know. But those are the things -- and with the CRA, I
mean, we -- it's not only the CRA. It's not only the Commission. It's Bayfront Park, and you,
the DDA. And, you know, we're backed up. So, we get here --
Chairman Teele: And MPO (Metropolitan Planning Organization).
Board Member Sanchez: And MPO. And, in many ways, you basically feel like a mushroom,
you know. You're kept in the dark and they provide you, you know what.
Vice Chairman Winton: And that's why the -- you're right. The -- I'm sorry. The
organizational structure is so crucially important. But I tell you, there's something else in my
mind. I don't -- I probably won't be able to articulate it tonight, Commissioner Teele, and I'll
think of it later and be able to articulate it. But I think there's some side resources we need. As
an example that pops in my mind, we probably ought to have an audit committee, so that there's
-- we got somebody else helping us that's smarter than hell, that reports directly to us, and keeps
us updated just in terms of (INAUDIBLE). Well, there may be some other things like that,
where we could bring real expert resources to the table that -- that when we have our board
meetings, you've got these reports that are about boom, boom, boom, boom. And then we can
act as a board of directors. And I don't know how to articulate that, yet. So, I'll just spend time
thinking about it.
Board Member Gonzalez: Mr. Chairman.
Chairman Teele: Commissioner Gonzalez.
Board Member Gonzalez: Listening to your arguments, I just realized, when you mentioned that
the CRA is like St. Johns and like many CDCs that we know about, it came to my mind -- and
listening to you saying the CRA and the City, that is kind of confusing to the -- even to the
people that are listening to this debate. Because you -- well, supposedly right now, they are the
CRA. And later on they're going to see us, "Who's the City?" We are the City and we are the
CRA. And to a point -- and I don't know. This is something that just came to my mind. To a
point, I see that there is -- there could even be a -- even a conflict of interest of us making
decisions for both entities. And when you say the CRA is trying to do magnificent things that
we know -- we all know they're trying to do with the CRA, but the City is an obstacle. And then
we're in the position that we debate at the CRA, and then the CRA comes back to us and we are
the City, and we're the ones that handle the CRA. It's kind of confusing, not even to the people
that are here now, but even to the people that are watching on TV (Television). And when you
mention the CDCs, you know, it came to my mind an idea that -- I don't know. Maybe we
should all think about it. All CDCs are operated or directed by board of directors composed of
volunteers from the community; merchants, attorneys, doctors, and so on and so on. And to be
honest with you, as Commissioner Sanchez says -- and I don't want to use the same expression
of what we are, but we all have to work for a living, OK? On top of that, we have to have the
meetings that -- the regular meetings that we have to have in order to be able to respond to our
constituents and the people that need to talk to us. On top of that, we have to read the agendas.
On top of that, we have to get ready for the meetings. And I don't know. I don't think we have
enough time to really help you in conducting the business of the CRA. Maybe one solution is to
21 June 27, 2002
look at the possibility of maybe creating -- create an independent board of directors that could
really give you the support that you need, in order to push the agenda of this organization ahead.
Because we actually -- sometimes I have had to miss your meetings. And the fact is, that I have
to work to make a living. Because, you know, as we say today, right now, I was making -- I was
joking with somebody back there. I was telling them, today we're making a dollar twenty-nine
($1.29) an hour, OK? If we take the salary and divide it into the amount of hours that we're here
and that we're going to be here, we probably -- when we finish, we'll probably make twenty-five
cents ($0.25) an hour. So, we have to go out there and make a living doing other things. So,
maybe that's an option, something that we --
Chairman Teele: Commissioner Gonzalez.
Board Member Gonzalez: You know, the Commission might want to consider.
Chairman Teele: Commissioner Gonzalez.
Board Member Regalado: You can't resign.
Chairman Teele: And I realize -- yes, he can. I realize that --
Board Member Regalado: No. The Attorney says we can't.
Chairman Teele: Mr. Judy, why don't you take the podium for a minute? Mr. Chairman
Regalado, Commissioner Gonzalez raises a very good point, and -- Mr. Judy, please. I will say
this, one of the things that we have tried to do at the CRA is, we have some of -- and we're the
envy of every CRA in the State. I mean -- and the State CRAB association is begging us to be
more involved, wanting us to be. Because the one thing that we have done, is that we have some
of the most knowledgeable people in the State of Florida around this CRA. And I think a part of
what you're talking about, Commissioner Gonzalez, and a lot of the frustration is, quite candidly,
we're all kicking ourselves, because we don't have enough time. I don't have enough time to do
this and do it well. And I think, you know, that's one of the natures of this challenge. However,
the State law contemplates that. The State law provides for several distinct ways to operate the
CRA, under Chapter 163. And, Mr. Judy, just very quickly -- one of the things I was about to
say, just as an example, Dick Judy, who has been with the CRA, contrary to some of the things
that the management focus may point out, literally for three years, continuously, and while Mr.
Judy is not on the staff, he is a consultant. There is nobody in this state more conversant, Mr.
Attorney, on Chapter 163 than Mr. Judy. Is that a fair statement? I didn't say he's right or I
didn't say he's wrong. But he's certainly as conversant as anyone in this state today.
Mr. Vilarello: That's a true statement. With regard to what Commissioner Regalado said, the
Board, as it's constituted now, is the City Commission. Clearly, the statute contemplates an
independent agency, and permits the City Commission to sit as the governing body of the CRA.
Certainly, but you'd have to amend the plan in order to change the composition of this Board.
22 June 27, 2002
Chairman Teele: And that's the process that we're in right now. But, Mr. Judy, what are the
methods -- just your name for the record -- what are the methods that Chapter 163 allows right
now? What is the other option that we could take as a board?
Richard Judy: The option that the -- excuse me. Richard Judy. Most of you know me, I think, a
little bit. You have two options. The option under 356, which is really the basic section of the
act that creates the CRA. And in that section, you can decide to use the private sector within the
community area of your CRA. In other words, there's 240 acres. Get someone that, in effect, is
part of that, either is a businessperson, owns property, or lives in that area. And the other --
Board Member Gonzalez: What about -- excuse me, sir. What about people that own businesses
or that exercise their profession?
Chairman Teele: Within the area. Within the area.
Mr. Judy: Oh, yes, if they're a business -- they own business -- it's very open. Let's be frank
about it. But it has what we would want to do, is to try to always look for the best of those type
of persons. The other option that the City makes or determines, when they were creating the
CRA under 356, they can make the decision that they're going to be the board of directors. And
what --
Chairman Teele: "They" being the City?
Mr. Judy: Yes, the City. You, the Commissioners, the five Commissioners. And you also have
the opportunity to hire, in addition, two additional members of the outside -- of the private
persons in your community area. You could bring two people.
Chairman Teele: Two additional people, up to seven.
Mr. Judy: Two additional. And, actually, you could do that today, as you five. You can put two
people from a private sector to be (INAUDIBLE).
Chairman Teele: Just for the record, I'd like to confer with the County, as well as the Attorneys
on that, before you give a legal opinion, Mr. Judy. But --
Mr. Judy: You know, in a lot of ways -- you know me well enough to know that I think the law
belongs to us, not the lawyers. And, consequently -- oh, yeah, I strongly believed that all my
life. And I think that I've been very effective in this community.
Board Member Regalado: Dick, I think -- excuse me.
Mr. Judy: But, my point being is that you can do that, and that's the case.
Board Member Gonzalez: Another question, so I can --
23 June 27, 2002
Board Member Regalado: Excuse me. Excuse me. Just a question. (INAUDIBLE). When I
was elected, the CRA board was seven members.
Mr. Judy: Never was.
Chairman Teele: It's never been seven, sir.
Board Member Regalado: Yes.
Mr. Judy: No, no. No, it wasn't.
Board Member Gonzalez: But --
Mr. Judy: Let me tell you the story about it. If you look throughout all the state, most of the
politic Commissioners generally want to be in that position, so they -- very seldom do they --
Chairman Teele: The vast majority of the CRAB in the state of Florida are City Commission or -
Mr. Judy: Absolutely.
Chairman Teele: OK. But I think it would be very good, Mr. Judy, if you would give us a white
paper --
Mr. Judy: Yes.
Chairman Teele: -- to each member of the board from you outlining some of your views and,
specifically, what the options are. Please submit that through the City Attorney's Office.
Mr. Judy: I have -- as you well know, I will do that. As you well know, I have a --
Chairman Teele: Submit it through the City Attorney's Office, though.
Mr. Judy: Yes, sir. I do work with one of my fine attorneys, who is really excellent to work
with. We're doing a lot in that area together, as a team. But in any event, we have also --
through the lead of our Chairman, we're making -- doing an awful lot of research in terms of our
whole relationship with the County and the City. And as you well know, under the plan that
we're doing, the Redevelopment Amendment Plan, as you well know, we're also going to restate
all the interlocal agreements, which must be done. Some of them were in 1982. Like --
Chairman Teele: OK. We --
Mr. Judy: Excuse me. I don't want to keep pushing on this, but I just want to say to you that
there's a lot of work being done.
Vice Chairman Winton: Well, thank you. Please don't.
24 June 27, 2002
Board Member Gonzalez: A final --
Vice Chairman Winton: It's 10 o'clock.
Board Member Gonzalez: -- question, so I can have a definite idea of -- can we -- are we
allowed to change the composition of the Board of Directors of the CRA at the present time?
Mr. Judy: No, no, no.
Board Member Gonzalez: Can we say, the City Commission --
Mr. Judy: No. That's it. And, in fact, if you get thrown out of the CRA, you get out of the City,
also. That's the interesting point.
Board Member Gonzalez: Really?
Mr. Judy: Yep. Yep.
Chairman Teele: That's --
Mr. Judy: That's (INAUDIBLE). I'm going to add that to it.
Chairman Teele: That's a Dick Judy kind of parable that you'll be working all night to --
Mr. Judy: OK.
Chairman Teele: -- unravel or at least all week, if you take it seriously. Let me just make this
observation. It's getting late. I do appreciate the need for the discussion. That's the item that I
read into the record, the pocket item. There'll be more discussion on this. And I want to thank
the auditors. Are there further questions regarding item number -- regarding the auditor and the -
Mr. Deon: I want to --
Vice Chairman Winton: You have one more thing to say.
Mr. Deon: I do have one more thing I just want to mention to you, and I think, you know, it is
critical. You get somebody involved in your accounting and recording keeping reporting.
Because, as we all are aware, GASB (Government Accounting Standard Board)-34 has to be
implemented by --
Vice Chairman Winton: Who?
Board Member Sanchez: GASB-34.
25 June 27, 2002
Mr. Deon: -- the CRA this year. Fiscal ended September 30, 2002. And that is going to be a
complicated task in itself.
Vice Chairman Winton: But well, let me ask you another question. Do we need to take some
additional steps now to assure that we meet that deadline?
Mr. Deon: Well, I would suggest you -- to begin with, I think the Commissioners -- and I'll
welcome to do it -- is do a workshop on GASB-34.
Vice Chairman Winton: No, no. I don't want to do a workshop on GASB.
Mr. Deon: Well, just to give you a basic --
Vice Chairman Winton: No, no. I --
Mr. Deon: -- knowledge of what you're looking at.
Chairman Teele: Yeah. But, see, you're overstepping now. See, you're talking now as a City
auditor.
Mr. Deon: No, I'm not talking as the City. I'm here as the CRA.
Vice Chairman Winton: As the board. No, no. I don't need that. I want you to tell me --
Chairman Teele: The City needs a GASB workshop, not the CRA. I mean, the CRA may need
it, but the City desperately needs it, but that's another story.
Vice Chairman Winton: Yeah. You're an expert in that arena, and I'm asking you as an expert.
Not only are you an expert in that arena, you're our auditor and you understand what resources
we have internal to the CRA. So, I'm asking you, as that expert, do we need to take additional
steps, hire another consultant, hire a part-time accountant, hire a part-time accounting firm, hire
something else, that we bring onboard, on a temporary basis, to get us up -to -speed on GASB-34?
Mr. Deon: I think that you're going to -- yes. To answer your question, you should hire an
additional person, part-time, or a consultant to come in that's GASB-34 knowledgeable, and to
assist Annette --
Vice Chairman Winton: Can you give us the names of three or four people and/or -- would you
suggest a person or a -- or hire a firm that has the skill sets?
Mr. Deon: I'd say either/or, Commissioner. You've got to get a body in there. You've got to
get --
Vice Chairman Winton: So, could you give us some recommendations, like within the next day
or two, so that -- when do we have another CRA board meeting, Commissioner Teele or
Chairman?
26 June 27, 2002
Chairman Teele: I would assume July the 291h or the 22nd. What --
Vice Chairman Winton: And can we wait until then to do that?
Mr. Deon: Sure. Oh, sure. We will.
Vice Chairman Winton: OK. So, could you get the recommendations to the Executive Director,
so that she can bring a recommendation back to the next Board, so we can make a decision at
that board meeting?
Mr. Deon: We will do that, Commissioner.
Vice Chairman Winton: Thank you.
27 June 27, 2002
34. AUTHORIZE CRA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR TO PROVIDE IN -KIND GRANT TO
RICKIA ISAAC FOUNDATION, INC FOR RENTAL OF MIAMI ARENA, $5,000 FOR
FOUNDATION'S 2ND ANNUAL JULY 4TH JAM FEST "NO MORE STRAY BULLETS"
PROGRAM FOCUSED TOWARD REDUCTION OF HANDGUN VIOLENCE WITHIN
OVERTOWN.
Chairman Teele: Consent item number 1. Resolution authorizing to provide an in -kind grant to
the foundation for the rental of the arena. Again, I just want to put on the record, the CRA has
aggressively supported all of the facility's instructions within the redevelopment area. The
Miami Arena, Big Time Studios, any facility in that area, we view it as our business to try to
encourage people to come to. And unlike others where we're asking the money from -- you
know, this is money that has been developed in the area. I would ask for a motion.
Vice Chairman Winton: So moved.
Annette Lewis (Executive Director of CRA): Mr. Chairman, based on the timing of this item,
I've been told by the Foundation that they've already paid their fees to MSEA (Miami Sports and
Exposition Authority), and they've requested, as of Monday, the 24th, that thirty-five thousand
dollars ($35,000) be allocated to entertainment -- their entertainment line item that's --
Chairman Teele: But why don't we do this: Why don't we pay MSEA, and let them get their
money back from MSEA.
Ms. Lewis: OK.
Chairman Teele: I mean, that's -- you know, our role is trying to use those venues and get the
venues in that area. So, with the amendment that the money would go to MSEA, as opposed to
the Foundation, and request that we would ask the Director to work with MSEA to reimburse
their funding. I mean, it's -- dollars are fungible, but it's much cleaner. There's a cleaner
justification. We're helping to keep activities in the area.
Ms. Lewis: Right, that was our intent. But that was a request from their Foundation, sir.
Chairman Teele: Right. It's a motion. Is there a second? Is there objection? All those in favor,
say "aye."
The Board Members (Collectively): Aye.
28 June 27, 2002
N
M
The following resolution was introduced by Vice Chairman Winton, who moved for its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. SEOPW/CRA 02-116
A RESOLUTION OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE SOUTHEAST
OVERTOWN/PARK WEST (SEOPW) COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT
AGENCY (CRA) AUTHORIZING THE CRA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR TO
PROVIDE AN IN -KIND GRANT TO RICKIA ISAAC FOUNDATION, INC
FOR THE RENTAL OF THE MIAMI ARENA IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO
EXCEED $5,000 SUBJECT TO THE AVAILABILITY OF FUNDS FROM
ACCOUNT NUMBER 689001.550108.6.940 FOR THE FOUNDATIONS 2ND
ANNUAL JULY 4TH JAM FEST "NO MORE STRAY BULLETS" A
PROGRAM FOCUSED TOWARD THE REDUCTION OF HANDGUN
VIOLENCE WITHIN THE OVERTOWN COMMUNITY.
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here and on file in the Office of the City Clerk.)
Upon being seconded by Board Member Regalado, the resolution was passed and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Chairman Arthur E. Teele, Jr.
Vice Chairman Johnny L. Winton
Board Member Tomas Regalado
NAYS: None
ABSENT: Board Member Angel Gonzalez
Board Member Joe Sanchez
29 June 27, 2002
M
35. REQUEST CITY TO AMEND CHAPTER 39 OF CITY CODE ENTITLED "PEDDLERS
AND ITINERANT VENDORS"; REQUEST CITY TO CREATE SPECIAL VENDING
OVERLAY WITHIN 24 HOUR PARKWEST ENTERTAINMENT DISTRICT AND
REQUIRE STREET VENDORS AND VENDING MACHINE OPERATORS TO OBTAIN
SPECIAL PERMITS.
Chairman Teele: This is a resolution requesting that the City Code be amended. And this is a
request to ask the City Manager to provide some direction regarding the 24 hour overlay district,
requiring -- regarding street vendors and vending machines.
Vice Chairman Winton: So moved.
Chairman Teele: Moved. Is there a second?
Board Member Regalado: Second.
Chairman Teele: All those in favor, say "aye."
The Board Members (Collectively): Aye.
Chairman Teele: Those opposed have the same right.
30 June 27, 2002
I
The following resolution was introduced by Vice Chairman Winton, who moved for its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. SEOPW/CRA 02-117
A RESOLUTION OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE SOUTHEAST
OVERTOWN/PARK WEST (SEOPW) COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT
AGENCY (CRA) REQUESTING THE CITY OF MIAMI TO AMEND
CHAPTER 39 OF THE MIAMI CITY CODE ENTITLED "PEDDLERS AND
ITINERANT VENDORS"; FURTHER REQUESTING THE CITY OF MIAMI
TO CREATE A SPECIAL VENDING OVERLAY WITHIN THE 24 HOUR
PARKWEST ENTERTAINMENT DISTRICT AND REQUIRING STREET
VENDORS AND VENDING MACHINE OPERATORS TO OBTAIN SPECIAL
PERMITS SUBJECT TO APPROVALS BY THE CITY OF MIAMI AND THE
CRA; FURTHER LIMITING THE NUMBER OF PERMITS ALLOWED
WITHIN THE DISTRICT.
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here and on file in the Office of the City Clerk.)
Upon being seconded by Board Member Regalado, the resolution was passed and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Chairman Arthur E. Teele, Jr.
Vice Chairman Johnny L. Winton
Board Member Tomas Regalado
NAYS: None
ABSENT: Board Member Angel Gonzalez
Board Member Joe Sanchez
Annette Lewis (Executive Director of CRA): I'd like to --
Chairman Teele: Ma'am?
Ms. Lewis: I'd like to defer this item. The material isn't -- not prepared, sir.
31 June 27, 2002
36. AUTHORIZE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR TO ENTER INTO CONTRACT WITH
GUSTAFSON & PRIORE TO PERFORM SERVICES RELATED TO GRANDE
PROMENADE, PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION, LINER PARKING STRUCTURE,
TRANSPORTATION PLANNING, TRANSPORTATION SAFETY, PARKING, NARROW
RAIL GAUGE, $15,000.
Chairman Teele: The resolution relating to the Executive Director. This has been previously
agreed to. This is regarding the contract. Mr. Gustafson, I think, I saw him here, as we all know,
is a former Speaker of the House. And, again, I would call the Board and the public's attention
to the fact that the CRA (Community Redevelopment Agency) has tried to find people that are
experts, without question in the area. And I think one of the problems that we do have is, we
have the kind of experts that make some people a little envious and jealous, but --
Vice Chairman Winton: What item are you on?
Chairman Teele: I'm on item number 5 --
Vice Chairman Winton: Oh. We skipped --
Chairman Teele: -- the item regarding the Grande Promenade.
Vice Chairman Winton: OK. I was behind. I couldn't find it.
Chairman Teele: Would you move it, Commissioner Regalado?
Board Member Regalado: Yes, I would.
Chairman Teele: Is there a second?
Vice Chairman Winton: Second.
Chairman Teele: Is there a discussion on the previously agreed upon contract with Speaker
Gustafson, regarding the planning. And, primarily, this is helping us to identify federal funding
sources. This is iced tea kind of opportunities and dollars that can be available significantly to
develop parking structures throughout the area, using federal transportation dollars. That's what
the -- one of the primary purposes of the contract. Is there further discussion? Speaker
Gustafson, would you just take the mic and at least introduce yourself for the record?
Tom Gustafson: My name is Tom Gustafson. I'm working on a number of projects around the
state. I look forward to working on this one with the CRA. And the key to getting parking
funded is to turn it into a circulation system. When you do that, you've got federal interest in
funding it for parking; and the circulation system, a small version of which is already in
existence in Key West parking garage, with a shuttle running up and down Duval Street, paid for
through federal transportation dollars.
32 June 27, 2002
N
Chairman Teele: For the record, Mr. Gustafson, a lot of people may not know, you were
Speaker of the House, and you are recognized as an expert in the area of transportation, and
seeking federal funds to leverage dollars for mobility and parking structures, using them as
federal funding; is that a fair statement?
Mr. Gustafson: Federal and State.
Chairman Teele: Federal.
Mr. Gustafson: But transportation trust funds, in general; how to turn them into community
redevelopment opportunities.
Chairman Teele: Further discussion? All those in favor, say "aye."
The Board Members (Collectively): Aye.
Chairman Teele: Those opposed?
The following resolution was introduced by Board Member Regalado, who moved for its
adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. SEOPW/CRA 02-118
RESOLUTION NO. OMNI 02-51
A RESOLUTION OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE SOUTHEAST
OVERTOWN/PARK WEST (SEOPW) COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT
AGENCY (CRA) AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR TO ENTER
INTO A CONTRACT WITH GUSTAFSON & PRIORE TO PERFORM
SERVICES RELATED TO THE GRANDE PROMENADE, PUBLIC
TRANSPORTATION, LINER PARKING STRUCTURE, TRANSPORTATION
PLANNING, TRANSPORTATION SAFETY, PARKING, NARROW RAIL
GAUGE, FOR A PERIOD OF ONE YEAR IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO
EXCEED $15,000, SUBJECT TO THE AVAILABILITY OF FUNDS FROM
ACCOUNT NUMBER 689001.550108.
AND
33 June 27, 2002
A RESOLUTION OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE OMNI
COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY (CRA) AUTHORIZING THE
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR TO ENTER INTO A CONTRACT WITH
GUSTAFSON & PRIORE TO PERFORM SERVICES RELATED TO THE
GRANDE PROMENADE, PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION, LINER PARKING
STRUCTURE, TRANSPORTATION PLANNING, TRANSPORTATION
SAFETY, PARKING, NARROW RAIL GAUGE, FOR A PERIOD OF ONE
YEAR IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $15,000, SUBJECT TO THE
AVAILABILITY OF FUNDS FROM ACCOUNT NUMBER 689001.550108.
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here and on file in the Office of the City Clerk.)
Upon being seconded by Vice Chairman Winton, the resolution was passed and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Chairman Arthur E. Teele, Jr.
Vice Chairman Johnny L. Winton
Board Member Tomas Regalado
Board Member Joe Sanchez
NAYS: None
ABSENT: Board Member Angel Gonzalez
Richard Judy (Assistant City Attorney): Commissioner --
Chairman Teele: I would ask that, on number 6 --
Mr. Judy: Mr. Chairman, there's a scrivener's error in item 5. It says the "Omni Community
Redevelopment Agency." It should be the "Southeast Overtown/Park West."
Mr. Gustafson: Yeah. Actually, it said it both ways. I found the second contract in there the
right way, so...
Chairman Teele: All right. Is it -- we want to use him on both. I mean, we don't want to use
him without regard. We have -- most of these have double resolutions.
Mr. Gustafson: There was a double --
Ms. Lewis: In this case, his package was only one.
Mr. Gustafson: Actually, there was. I've looked back in the book, and there was one resolution
for Omni and one resolution --
Ms. Lewis: Well, my package only has one.
34 June 27, 2002
Mr. Gustafson: -- was for the Overtown/Park West.
Chairman Teele: Southeast Overtown/Park West.
Vice Chairman Winton: So, what are we approving?
Chairman Teele: The scrivener's error is to approve the contract. But the issue is, he's going to
be working in both the Omni areas and Southeast Overtown; although, the reference is primarily
the Grande Promenade, which is where his primary focus is being.
Vice Chairman Winton: So, what we will pass is both?
Chairman Teele: It's both.
Vice Chairman Winton: OK.
Chairman Teele: But not double the amount.
Vice Chairman Winton: I understand. Absolutely.
Chairman Teele: With the error being corrected. Ms. Lewis --
Vice Chairman Winton: We better vote. We didn't vote.
Chairman Teele: -- regard -- is there objection? All those in favor, say "aye."
The Board Members (Collectively): Aye.
Chairman Teele: Those opposed? Where's the Clerk? You got it, Madam Clerk?
35 June 27, 2002
37. A PROPOSED RESOLUTION APPROVING THE CONCEPTUAL DESIGN OF THE
"STREET FURNITURE" AND AUTHORIZING THE CRA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR TO
NEGOTIATE A DEVELOPMENT GRANT AGREEMENT WITH SARMIENTO
ADVERTISING GROUP.
Chairman Teele: Ms. Lewis, what are we doing on number 6? And we had wanted to have
some discussion, but it's just late. Can we just -- what are we doing, Ms. Lewis?
Annette Lewis (Executive Director, CRA): Well, the substitute that I have is that the Board
approves the conceptual design, and authorize the CRA (Community Redevelopment Agency)
Executive Director to work with general counsel and the consulting engineer to perform analysis
and develop a formal itemization of costs related to providing a grant to Sarmiento Advertising
Group for the completion of the design for the street furniture. So, just approve, in concept,
tonight, the street furniture and some of the designs that Sarmiento had brought to -- a part of
their presentation; and further working to the actual design and development and the costs.
Because we've since found out that the Dade County Code Compliance requires some
prototyping based on the size and dimensions of these items.
Chairman Teele: South Florida Building Code, too. South Florida Building Code, Mr. Calas?
Mr. Calas: Yes, Commissioner.
Ms. Lewis: Right. Because there are additional costs for calculations for the items.
Chairman Teele: Ms. Lewis, what I'm interested in is the reoccurring dollar implication of this,
taking a conservative approach. And I think what we're all agreeing on -- or at least what has
been agreed upon -- if we design a unique form of street furniture that is for Miami, there's going
to be a tremendous potential for us to license it and sell it all over the country. And Sarmiento
has agreed that anything we design belongs to us. What I need to see is, how long is it going to
take us to recover, conservatively? And the thing that you talked about, which is a cost structure
of what the grant would be.
Ms. Lewis: Well, once we have all those in place, sir, we can generate, of course, analysis that
tells us what our rate of returns and our recovery periods would be, given certain assumptions.
Board Member Sanchez: Mr. Chairman.
Chairman Teele: Board member Sanchez.
Board Member Sanchez: Mr. Chairman, I have a recommendation here, with a fill -in -the -blank.
Is there an amount to this?
Ms. Lewis: Sir, this -- what we discussed is a substitute for that, where I'm actually requesting
that you just approve, in concept, the design of the street furniture, and recognizing and
acknowledging that a project of this type will have significant impact on the CRA and Miami, in
general. But we do not have --
36 June 27, 2002
Board Member Sanchez: I don't understand. Explain it to me. What are we doing here? We're
basically -- they're going to do something?
Ms. Lewis: OK. We're asking -- I'm asking -- the CRA staff is requesting that you approve -- the
Board approve the concept of the street furniture, and allow the CRA, with the consulting
engineer, as well as our general counsel, put together some analysis and some -- itemizing all the
costs related, anticipated costs related, with the design and development and prototyping, and all
the elements that go along with this project, so that we can present to the Board a full picture, not
only the development and the design, but the implications in terms of potential revenues and so
on, sir.
Vice Chairman Winton: But are we approving --
Board Member Sanchez: So, you'll report back to us --
Vice Chairman Winton: But are we approving a cost here?
Chairman Teele: No.
Board Member Sanchez: No.
Ms. Lewis: No, sir. No, sir.
Vice Chairman Winton: Or you're saying the cost is going to come back, also?
Ms. Lewis: No, the substitute. We're pulling -- the Item 6 --
Vice Chairman Winton: Are we -- we're not approving a cost, at all. So, the cost to get all that --
to get the real design done --
Ms. Lewis: Will come back --
Vice Chairman Winton: -- will come back to us?
Ms. Lewis: -- in the form of a report, from the consulting engineer.
Vice Chairman Winton: The grant amount is going to come back to us?
Ms. Lewis: Correct.
Chairman Teele: Yes.
Vice Chairman Winton: OK. So, I'm clear on that part now.
Chairman Teele: The operative word, Ms. Lewis, that you left out --
37 June 27, 2002
Alejandro Vilarello (City Attorney): And the cost benefit.
Vice Chairman Winton: And the cost benefit. I got that, right.
Chairman Teele: -- -- is not "approve, in concept, the street furniture." It's to approve, in
concept, the street furniture licensing. In other words, rather than letting Sarmiento go out and
sell us something -- based upon our design -- because we're working with them, designing it
through Dover Kohl and all these other people sitting around -- designing a furniture that is
unique to the club district, to the City of Miami, which they, admittedly, have said they're going
to go out and sell it as "Made in Miami," "Approved for Miami." And what we're saying is, any
design we do, we want the rights to patent it, to own the patent, and to sell the licensing back to
them for the purpose. And the only way to do that is, we've got to own the product. Or we can
just simply say, why worry about it? Let them do it and, you know, dah, dah, dah, dah. And I
think one gives us the opportunity to sell Miami throughout the hemisphere. I can tell you this,
you go to some of these countries. If they say this is what they're using in Miami, you know
what's going to happen? Everybody's going to want it, you know. And that's what we sort of
give away to the County and everybody all the time.
Vice Chairman Winton: Now, I had a whole 'nother line or, actually, a question that was totally
unrelated, that you just maybe answered; that is, this action seems to be out of step with our
master planning effort. You just said that this is going to be done in -- the designing is going to
be done in conjunction with Dover Kohl's Master Plan, and I just want to be -- I think that's what
you said. I want to be clear on that. I want -- what I want to understand is whether -- how this
effort fits in terms of the master plan that Dover Kohl is working on for the whole area right
now, because street scape, lighting, landscaping, you know, all that jazz, and street furniture and
all that is a part of the plan that you're working on right now.
Sergio Vazquez: Sergio Vazquez, Dover Kohl and Partners. We have been meeting with
Sarmiento. We have been meeting with their designer, who has flown in from Argentina, and we
have walked the streets. Realize, there's a hierarchy of streets. For example, a fixture that we
will have on Biscayne Boulevard, which is a big elegant boulevard, it's going to be very different
from what we'll have on the promenade. So, those are the kinds of elements that we have been
working together on, and we're not yet ready to release the concepts, obviously, and we need
your permission to move forward. But, absolutely, we realize each street is different and we
have to study that.
Vice Chairman Winton: And how do you then -- how do you fit this in with the public nature of
a normal master planning process, where you do get public input, and the public always has
opinions, lots of them. And what if the public doesn't like whatever this one design is that we
come up with? I mean, how do you reconcile this kind of one -design concept with the public
nature of a master plan?
Mr. Vazquez: Right. Our intent has not been one design. For example, with the grand
promenade imagery, which you've seen, we were planning to show you three totally different
styles, and --
38 June 27, 2002
Vice Chairman Winton: For the grand promenade alone?
Mr. Vazquez: For example -- I'm using the grand promenade. And say, do you like A, B, or C?
Vice Chairman Winton: OK.
Mr. Vazquez: These are the positives and the negatives. And as we show you the designs, we
can begin to talk about the implications, because there's a real science as to how you design
lighting. And the environment that we want to create for the grand promenade, for example, is
the lighting should be soft. And what's happening on the walls, on the destination, should be
more interesting. And those are the kinds of elements that we'll begin to talk about once we're
ready.
Chairman Teele: Mr. Vice Chairman, let me just say this. I don't know Dover Kohl that well.
I've come to know them and really respect them. Let me just put everything on the table. And I
don't mean to disrespect you, sir. But Dover Kohl and Sarmiento have sort of teamed up, and
they're working so closely together that my fear was, they would design the furniture together,
license it --
Vice Chairman Winton: And go make the money.
Chairman Teele: -- and go make the money. And I told you --
Vice Chairman Winton: No, no. I like this idea of us making the money.
Chairman Teele: I told you to your face, I said, any work you do, we want the original
documents, and we want a release. Because Dover Kohl and Sarmiento -- and they brought in
some high-powered architect from --
Mr. Vazquez: Argentina. Diana Cabeza, who's an award -winning architect, and has won awards,
as far as your --
Chairman Teele: And -- I mean, this lady has been here hours and weeks and weeks working on
these things. And my position is, if somebody's going to make the money out of it, let the City
of Miami make the money out of it. Let's just go ahead and license it. Get everybody to
basically have to release all the work back to us. And then for Sarmiento to say anything that
they sell like this, they've got to give us a percentage on, throughout the nation, for, you know,
20 or 30 years. That's the way redevelopment agencies function, different from dah, dah, dah,
dah. So, that's what this is all about. We don't need to do this. They could go out and do it and
probably make a fortune on it, and they'll figure out a way to do it anyway, I'm sure, but I just
haven't figured out how they're going to do it. But it's a concept. And they have worked around
the clock on this. But --
Vice Chairman Winton: This is your strength in this whole thing. I would not have thought of
this. This is a great idea.
39 June 27, 2002
_0"
Mr. Vazquez: I didn't think of it either.
Chairman Teele: But, Johnny, in fairness, a lot of this has to do with the interface between what
we're trying to do on Bicentennial -- on Biscayne Boulevard, in that whole -- making this one
connectivity that flows different, but connected. So, that's the conceptual approval.
Vice Chairman Winton: Call the question.
Chairman Teele: Is there objection? All those in favor, say "aye."
The Board Members (Collectively): Aye.
Chairman Teele: All opposed?
The following motion was introduced by Vice Chairman Winton, who moved for its adoption:
MOTION NO. SEOPW/CRA 02-119
MOTION NO. OMNI/CRA 02-52
A MOTION APPROVING THE CONCEPTUAL DESIGN OF `STREET
FURNITURE' AND AUTHORIZING THE CRA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR TO
WORK WITH THE GENERAL COUNSEL AND THE CONSULTING
ENGINEER TO PERFORM ANALYSES AND DEVELOP A FORMAL
ITEMIZATION OF COSTS RELATED TO PROVIDING A GRANT
SARMIENTO ADVERTISING GROUP FOR THE COMPLETION OF THE
DESIGN OF "STREET FURNITURE"; FURTHER RECOGNIZING AND
ACKNOWLEDGING THAT A PROJECT OF THIS TYPE WILL HAVE
SIGNIFICANT IMPACTS ON THE CRA AND MIAMI IN GENERAL.
Upon being seconded by Board Member Sanchez, the motion was passed and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Chairman Arthur E. Teele, Jr.
Board Member Tomas Regalado
Board Member Joe Sanchez
Vice Chairman Johnny L. Winton
NAYS: None
ABSENT: Board Member Angel Gonzalez
Chairman Teele: And item number seven is the same thing.
Ms. Lewis: It's partner to six, yes, sir.
40 June 27, 2002
°•u4e^'
Chairman Teele: Say again.
Ms. Lewis: I said that was partner to Item 6, that we just discussed, sir.
Chairman Teele: That was the -- but this is just the -- this is the conceptual item. So, we
approved six -substitute.
Ms. Lewis: Correct.
Chairman Teele: OK.
Vice Chairman Winton: Well, I'm not sure I understand what the difference is between six and
seven.
Chairman Teele: Well, we approved -- we did not approve six or seven. We approved a concept
that instructs her to work with the general counsel and with the consulting engineer, to come
back with specific numbers and documentation on not only the grant, but the projected cashflow.
Vice Chairman Winton: Right. And that was six. So, what does seven do?
Chairman Teele: Seven is no longer necessary, because it's a statement of intent.
Vice Chairman Winton: OK. Got it.
Board Member Sanchez: So, we're not going to vote on seven, right?
Chairman Teele: No, we're not going to vote on seven, because six -substitute replaces six and
seven.
41 June 27, 2002
38. CONTINUE: PROPOSED RESOLUTION ACKNOWLEDGING INSTRUCTING
SPECIAL COUNSEL TO UPDATE EXISTING AIRSPACE AGREEMENT BETWEEN CRA
AND FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION (FDOT) FOR PURPOSE OF
LEASING AIRSPACE UNDER I-395 BETWEEN NW 3RD AVENUE TO BISCAYNE
BOULEVARD FOR CONSTRUCTION OF PUBLIC PARKING LOT AND STORAGE
AREA; PROPOSED RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING CRA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR TO
ENTER INTO JOINT PARTICIPATION AGREEMENT WITH FLORIDA DEPARTMENT
OF TRANSPORTATION (FDOT) FOR DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION OF PARKING LOT
AND STORAGE AREA; AND PROPOSED RESOLUTION REQUESTING CITY
MANAGER TO AMEND ORDINANCE NO. 11917 WHICH CREATED 24 HOUR
PARKWEST ENTERTAINMENT DISTRICT, BY PROHIBITING DEVELOPERS FROM
OBTAINING DEVELOPMENT CREDITS FOR CONSTRUCTION OF PUBLIC PARKING
LOT AND STORAGE AREA TO COMMISSION MEETING CURRENTLY SCHEDULED
FOR JULY 9, 2002.
Chairman Teele: Item number 8, relating to the -- to acknowledging an existing agreement. And
I just want to say, right here, right now, on item 8A and item 8B and item 8C --
Board Member Sanchez: I don't have 8.
Chairman Teele: It is the matter relating to the Department of Transportation. You know, I have
worked in some pretty good circles, but I have never seen the disinformation that is coming out
now regarding this whole issue. And I have to salute Off -Street Parking, but I've got to tell you
guys, you know, you all need to knock it off and stop fabricating, because this is not going to go
well with me for a long time and everybody that I can talk to on it. Because -- I mean, if Off -
Street Parking is that concerned, then we need to be even more concerned. This is the item in
which the CRA (Community Redevelopment Agency) has had the rights for the development of
parking spaces for the benefit of property owners, and not necessarily for the purpose of running
parking concessions regarding the air space. We have the rights under it. We negotiated it.
They've been approved. What this does is updates those air right agreements from the
Department of Transportation. And it's very obvious that it's got some people running around.
So, I would ask, please -- Mr. Noriega, if you want to put anything on the record, you come
down and do that. Because I think we need to be very transparent, but I think we need to be
honest, and I don't think we need to --
Art Noriega: Art Noriega, Executive Director of Miami Parking Authority. The honest
summation of this item, relative to our involvement, is that we had been in discussions with
FDOT (Florida Department of Transportation), going back two years. We, subsequently,
dropped those discussions, at your urgency, because you felt the CRA ought to be the one
involved in the parking operation or developing parking under I-395. Subsequent to that, six
months, a year transpired. Nothing had really occurred. No developing had occurred. And I
reapproached FDOT, specifically, to address the issue. And was told by them that no agreement
had been reached. There was no agreement in place with the CRA. And we proceeded to
advance ourselves, again, and reintroduce the idea of us developing parking under the interstate.
We've invested money, as far as surveys go, and we've had -- I have a whole file full of
communication with them, going back directly and consistently since last September.
42 June 27, 2002
Chairman Teele: How much are you charging the Performing Arts Center now to park
underneath 395?
Mr. Noriega: You're talking for the construction?
Chairman Teele: No. Anybody. Anything.
Mr. Noriega: It's minimal, at best. I don't have that number right off the top of my head, but it
is actually minimal for construction. We're -- it's the -- it's the contractor.
Chairman Teele: How much are you charging them, sir?
Mr. Noriega: I don't know, Commissioner. I'd be happy to give you that information. I don't
know what it is off the top of my head.
Chairman Teele: The point that I want to make is that the CRA has a unique and distinct role. I
discussed this with the Executive Director of the Performing Arts Center today, and the new
President, both of which would be very pleased if the CRA would take the leadership, because
they know, for one thing, the staging of their buses, as an example, the school buses, will be able
to come and use the CRA parking lot gratis. Because our goal is to enhance the development
that is in there. Off -Street Parking cannot allow gratis use -- at least, that's what they said in the
Design District and everywhere else -- because their job is totally separate, and their job is to
collect fees and to maximize the fees under their bond indenture. And the fact of the matter is, as
going back to '99, the only thing that you said that is correct, Mr. Noriega, in the Miami Today,
that I want to acknowledge, is that I have always said that Off -Street Parking should take the
position and amend your bond indentures to be a part of the development and redevelopment of
areas. As long as your bond indenture say that you all can only collect money and maximize the
dollars, you work against the redevelopment of a lot of our areas, and in particular, in this area
where we're trying to develop the Omni, and to referee between the Omni and the Club District,
and the Entertainment District, and these other things. I think it is totally in the interest of the
City of Miami to ensure that the control and the parking underneath the expressway is for the
best interest of development. And, Art, I've told you before and I'll say it again, I have no
interest in setting up an infrastructure to run parking. All of the parking that we do, we will
contract with you all to do, but it's got to be not under a bond indenture that requires that the
only way you all can do something is you've got to maximize the revenues from parking. There
are going to be most days that we're going to want to see that parking be free to the public.
Mr. Noriega: Commissioner, if I can address that. There is nothing in our bond indenture that
says we have to maximize revenues. What it says, we have to have a certain -- maintain a
minimum debt service coverage. We do special events all the time. We do them in the Grove on
a regular basis, where we offer free parking to encourage development or to encourage visits.
We do it all the time. We have a tract record of that. And I can't speak going back prior to the
three years that I've been there, but I'll tell you, we do that on a regular basis, citywide, and
we've been a good business partner in terms of promoting the development of business in every
area of the City of Miami.
43 June 27, 2002
Chairman Teele: The issue reoccurs that, in the Design District -- and I don't want to get this off
track, Art. You know, the CRA is working to develop this area, and we're working very closely
with the Performing Arts Center. Are you proffering -- and I think this is something that --
Board Member Sanchez: This is interesting.
Chairman Teele: -- should be, perhaps, a different discussion. But I'm very interested to hear
you proffering now that you all are prepared to provide parking at gratis for the Performing Arts
Center, and that you all are going to rescind the parking charges that you're charging them now.
Because the fact of the matter is, if you'll recall, the NAP (Network Area Point), we provided all
the parking for the NAP construction, over the objections of Mr. Sofer, over the objections of
Off -Street Parking, for one reason: We wanted to get the NAP up, we wanted to minimize the
costs. You remember when we gave them the grant, seven hundred and fifty thousand dollars
($750,000)? That wasn't play money. That was real money. That's what it would have cost.
And it is totally in the best interest of the development and redevelopment of the Omni, and the
Club Districts that we're working around the clock and we're just working in terms of furniture,
as an example, that the CRA move forward. I mean, the DOT (Department of Transportation)
has already answered the question. We have the agreement. This is only an instruction to
instruct the general counsel to update the agreement, and we have the agreement. And, Mr.
Calas, I'd like just very much -- have you spoken to Mr. Abreu of the Department of
Transportation, and are they prepared to honor their agreement with the CRA?
Cesar Calas: That is correct, Commissioner.
Chairman Teele: Have you --
Mr. Calas: Yes, we met.
Chairman Teele: Would you give your name, just for the record?
Mr. Calas: We have met twice with Jose Abreu, and he has mentioned that he would honor that
agreement, and that the City could get it, under certain conditions, for a dollar ($1), so that we
could use it for parking for the district. The only thing that he said is, this cannot be tied to
development or anything like that. It cannot be credits, development credits.
Annette Lewis (Executive Director of CRA): And it has to be available for public parking.
Chairman Teele: Mr. Chairman -- Mr. Vice Chairman, I would ask that you -- look, the issue
here is this: If Off -Street Parking wants to manage this for us, I'm going to be more than open to
do that. We have no interest in it. But what I am not going to allow is -- I have enough
experiences with Off -Street Parking. You do, in the Grove, the Design District. There's no Off -
Street Parking that's going to make this parking available. They -- you know, and even though
they do nominal charges from here and there, the fact of the matter is, as a matter of right, we
need this parking primarily for the businesses and the development of that club area, and the
Omni area, as it's coming online.
44 June 27, 2002
Board Member Sanchez: And, Mr. Chairman, the parking that we will provide will be also
gratis, it would be free? The CRA would provide free parking?
Chairman Teele: The vast majority of the parking that we would provide would be free most of
the day. There would be periods of time at night, under the agreements that we have with the
club district, where we would charge the minimum amount of parking to recover costs solely as
it relates to the market parking costs. But the important thing is that the structure would be
designed, not with meters and all of this other stuff, but it would be designed to be compatible
with the long term needs of the Performing Arts Center, which is for buses. There are -- you
know, the buses or the school buses, they've got a need for over 250 parking spaces that no one
has really identified. And they have said, repeatedly, "We need you all to work with us." And
we said we're going to do it. So, again, this is not the end of the issue. If Off -Street Parking
wants to manage this for us, under the terms and conditions that we lay out --
Board Member Sanchez: This may sound funny -- and I don't want to offend anybody -- but the
CRA just went into the furniture business, and now we're going to go into the parking business.
Chairman Teele: We've been in the parking business. We've been in the parking business ever
since the old arena was built. And all that money, by the way, went to Gusman. Just know, you
know, all that money went to Gusman.
Board Member Sanchez: Off -Street Parking is in the business of parking, and if we could come
to an agreement with them and, you know, a reasonable agreement, where it's good for the CRA
and good for Off -Street Parking --
Chairman Teele: It's not about the CRA. It is about using parking as a tool of development
versus using parking for the purpose of collecting parking fees. And our goal may be totally in
conflict with the Off -Street Parking. But our goal is redevelopment, not parking.
Board Member Sanchez: I'm glad you stated that.
Vice Chairman Winton: Mr. Chairman, I've got -- I guess I kind of have to talk through this, but
I want to start off by saying, I also have had a conversation with Jose Abreu, who, frankly, feels
caught in the middle, and he doesn't care, frankly, who he does business with. He'd just like to
do business with somebody, and have us figure out in our family down here, who's going to do
it. So, I think that's -- we've got to do that. I have a -- I have kind of a mixed view on -- I have
two different kinds of views on what our role in parking should be. Your concept,
Commissioner Teele, that now is the right time to buy the right piece of land, upon which we
would ultimately build a parking garage so that we get ourselves ahead of the parking curve, I
think, is absolutely right. And Off -Street Parking cannot do that. And the reason Off -Street
Parking can't do it is because they can't make any money on the garage, so they couldn't bond it
out. So, the CRA would play a very valuable role because the CRA could, in fact, buy the land,
because that is a part of our job. And the land drives the total cost basis down in the garage, so
that it becomes a doable project that we could joint venture do with Off -Street Parking. But
that's -- So, that's one subject about parking. But, in general, about parking, I feel that the less
45 June 27, 2002
money we -- capital money we spend on parking in the CRA, the better, if there's somebody else
that can do it. Because we've got so many other infrastructure needs that we're simply not going
to get from the City of Miami. So, the only place we're going to get it is from our own CRA
money. So, I'm of the view that every time we can find another source of capital to do any of
the capital improvements that we need to get done, we need to turn to that other source, every
time we have an opportunity. On the issue of free parking to generate additional business. The
bus issue is separate, and I'm struggling with this bus issue, because you're absolutely right. Not
only will we have a bus issue --
Chairman Teele: Commissioner Winton, just yield on one point.
Vice Chairman Winton: Sure.
Chairman Teele: It's not about the buses.
Vice Chairman Winton: No.
Chairman Teele: The question is this, are we going to use -- are we going to be able to use one
of the few resources that we have at our disposal, under Chapter 163, which is the removal of
slum and blight, for which we all know -- listening to the Mayor's speech, the 395/95 has created
-- are we going to be able to use what the State gives us, which is Chapter 163 for the removal of
slum and blight, as a tool to redevelopment, or are we going to allow parking to be done
underneath 395, and the slum and blight continues? Look. Do me a favor, recess this item. Go
look at 95 and 5th Street. Go look at 95 in front of the Camillus House Health Center. OK.
That's what you're going to have, Johnny, right next to the Performing Arts Center. That is not
redevelopment. That is more slum and blight. And I'm not making light of what Off -Street
Parking does. Their job is to run a very profitable agency for the benefit of the bond holders,
primarily, in this case. Our role is totally different. A parking lot underneath 395, right next to
the Performing Arts Center, is going to look like night and day from what they will develop
versus what we will develop. But more fundamentally than how it looks, the question is the use.
The use of parking in this area is critical, critical to the redevelopment of Park West and the
Omni. We would not have the tax increment district going through the roof if we weren't doing
some of the things right. And so, all that I'm saying, Johnny, this is not about parking. This is
about redevelopment. And we, as board members of a Chapter 163 agency, redevelopment
agency, need to not worry about Off -Street Parking. We need to worry about our mission and
our role as board members of a redevelopment agency. And therein lies some of the conflict that
Angel Gonzalez made reference to. Because what you're getting ready to start talking about
now, in my judgment, is should we be doing parking or they be doing parking? That's a no-
brainer. They should be doing parking.
Vice Chairman Winton: But what you're saying is the kind of parking, is the whole question.
Chairman Teele: The location and the kind of parking.
Vice Chairman Winton: And the kind -- so what if, though --
46 June 27, 2002
Chairman Teele: Ask them if they want to go build a parking lot on P Avenue, in the middle of
Overtown. Just see if they want to do that. See if they want to build parking -- they only are
going to build parking where there is dollars.
Vice Chairman Winton: What -- see, it seems --
Chairman Teele: See how much they built in Little Haiti.
Vice Chairman Winton: I understand. But it seems to me that maybe there are two ways to get
at this, Commissioner Teele, and that is --
Chairman Teele: We don't control their board.
Vice Chairman Winton: -- that I don't know what our plan for parking is. I have no idea. I
don't know where we want -- all the spots under 395, where we want to put parking. But I will
tell you, if I could get Off -Street Parking to do what we would do, and we didn't have to do it,
I'd vote for that everyday. But I don't --
Chairman Teele: To do what we would do and follow the instructions that we give and the way
to do that is to approve this item, and then we control the kind of parking. And if the issue is
them running it, then fine. I don't have a problem with it. But the only way we can get them to
do what we would do, is we own it --
Board Member Sanchez: Right.
Chairman Teele: -- and give them a management agreement --
Board Member Sanchez: How --
Chairman Teele: -- to run it.
Board Member Sanchez: how would we control the use and the design of the parking lot? How
would we have that? How would we control that?
Chairman Teele: We control it now, under the interlocal agreement we have with the DOT. No,
no, no.
Board Member Sanchez: There isn't an agreement, yet.
Chairman Teele: Yes, there is, sir. Yes, there is, sir. You heard Mr. Calas. You heard Mr.
Noriega. We have the agreement.
Mr. Noriega: Wait, wait, wait. I didn't say you had an agreement. That's not what I said.
Chairman Teele: I apologize, sir.
47 June 27, 2002
Mr. Noriega: It's all right.
Chairman Teele: Ms. Lewis, do we have an agreement now?
Ms. Lewis: Yes, sir. And, it's an --
Chairman Teele: With Florida DOT?
Ms. Lewis: -- attachment.
Vice Chairman Winton: Where is it?
Chairman Teele: Mr. Calas, do we have an agreement now?
Ms. Lewis: And there is an --
Vice Chairman Winton: Is it here?
Ms. Lewis: It's here, the one that we're going to amend, as well as --
Chairman Teele: Is it in the agenda book?
Ms. Lewis: Yes, sir. And there is also --
Vice Chairman Winton: And signed by the parties?
Ms. Lewis: Yes, sir.
Board Member Sanchez: An agreement that we're going to amend?
Chairman Teele: Yes.
Ms. Lewis: And there's also an email, February -- I mean --
Chairman Teele: That's what this is all about.
Ms. Lewis: June 14th, from Debra Rivera, and as far as moving forward with this item, sir.
Board Member Regalado: That's with DOT, not with Off -Street Parking.
Chairman Teele: But DOT is who owns it.
Board Member Sanchez: We're dealing with Off -Street Parking right now.
Chairman Teele: I'm just amazed at that.
48 June 27, 2002
Vice Chairman Winton: Mr. Attorney, could you look at this agreement and tell us whether or
not this is an agreement between Florida Department of Transportation and the CRA, giving the
CRA the -- what is it, Commissioner Teele? What rights do we have?
Chairman Teele: The air rights space agreement underneath 395.
Board Member Sanchez: Twenty years.
Chairman Teele: I think it's for 20 years.
Board Member Sanchez: Twenty years, one dollar ($1).
Ms. Lewis: Yes, sir. And, then, there's the acknowledgement of an email --
Vice Chairman Winton: Because it's been said, publicly, that we don't have such an agreement,
and I think that now is the time to know whether we have such agreement or don't. And there's
one in front of us. And I just want to know what this is.
Chairman Teele: Who said we don't have an agreement?
Vice Chairman Winton: I read it in the newspaper.
Chairman Teele: Well, that's what I'm talking about. This almost --
Vice Chairman Winton: Well, but I want to answer it right now. We might as well answer it.
We've got it in front of us.
Chairman Teele: Journalism.
Jim Villacorta (Assistant City Attorney): The agreement's signed by both parties. Perhaps, the
first page isn't completely filled out with the dates, but if you look to the last page, it is signed by
both parties.
Board Member Sanchez: I have it here, if you want to see it.
Mr. Villacorta: And, it's public parking and storage in those areas listed.
Board Member Sanchez: Yeah. It says, "to provide public parking and storage and other similar
public use, consistent with the redevelopment plan."
Mr. Villacorta: For a period of 20 years.
Board Member Sanchez: For one dollar ($1).
Vice Chairman Winton: What's the significance of not having dates in here? What does that do
to the agreement?
49 June 27, 2002
Mr. Villacorta: I don't think it's of any importance --
Vice Chairman Winton: What did you say?
Mr. Villacorta: -- at this point. I don't think it's of any import at this point. We know what
dates it was signed, what date it was entered into. It was just an oversight.
Chairman Teele: This is a board meeting of the CRA. If you all want to repudiate the
agreement, for whatever reasons, you know, then fine. But, you know, I, for one, believe, you
know, that it is, to me, amazing and unbelievable that as a board of the CRA, not Off -Street
Parking, but a board of the CRA, that we don't at least move forward to protect the development
rights, and the development within the adjacent areas. I just -- I think it's almost -- I think it's
extremely difficult for me to understand what this board feels its duty is to this agency. And I
say that just very, very openly. Because this is an agreement that we have. This is an agreement
that we've recognized, and this is an agreement, much like Off -Street Parking, that we have
worked very hard to develop the demand that is there. Look, Off -Street Parking is not going to
build any parking lots where there is not a demand. Drive through your neighborhoods, Angel
Gonzalez, and you show me the Off -Street Parking facilities, you know, since, you know, you're
talking about the four poorest areas. And it's no need to get confused about what this is about.
There is a lot of money in this. This agency needs revenue streams, just like the next. We are
not motivated solely by the revenue stream, but the fact of the matter is, we will repay the capital
costs of this within two years -- two and a half years, in terms of the capital cost of building out
this parking lot, and any additional dollars will go for the benefit of the further redevelopment.
But, again, dollars are not the motivation. Dollars are the motivation of the Off -Street Parking.
And the fact there is such a discussion and a fight going on about this, just shows what this is all
about. It's not about development. It's about dollars.
Vice Chairman Winton: Well -- but I guess I'm more confused now, because I thought that our
pitch was, we're not going to make money on the parking lot. How are we going to --
Chairman Teele: I said, our pitch is, we are not doing this primarily for the financial
enumeration of it. We're doing it to control the development, and that is the case. But what I am
suggesting to you, that even though we have said and agreed with the club owners that we will
charge market rates on weekends and night. And we have also agreed with the Performing Arts
Center that this will be primarily available for buses to support their need, based upon some 250
buses, per day, that don't have any spaces or any staging areas, that we have identified this as
that kind of staging area. And the fact of the matter is, that is our role, is to stimulate and to
support the development that is going on in that area, both on the Omni side and on the Park
West side, where the areas are adjacent. Mr. Calas.
Mr. Calas: Commissioner, I was just talking to Ms. Lewis, and she was reminding me that, when
we talked to Jose Abreu, he said that part of the deal that was being struck there was that he was
allowing us to have that at no cost or a dollar ($1) or whatever it was, only on the provision that
part of the day, that has to be public access, no charge to the public use on the parking lot.
50 June 27, 2002
Otherwise, he would have to struck a completely different deal, and that's the only way he could
sell it to the federal government, that that would be done.
Board Member Sanchez: So, we can't generate money from the parking lot?
Chairman Teele: Huh?
Board Member Sanchez: We can't charge.
Chairman Teele: During the day. It's limited. That's not what he said.
Vice Chairman Winton: Well, OK. Let me under -- so, look. I need to see if I understand that.
Jose Abreu said that we're getting this land for a dollar ($1) a year.
Mr. Calas: Right.
Vice Chairman Winton: And if we charge for the parking --
Mr. Calas: All daylong.
Chairman Teele: All day long. Around the clock.
Mr. Calas: All 24 hours.
Vice Chairman Winton: What if we charge for it 12 hours a day? Did he say what --
Mr. Calas: Then, that will be fine. He says, it has to be public parking for some part of the day.
Vice Chairman Winton: So, if we spend our capital improvement dollars for parking underneath
I-395, we can recover that money by charging for part of the time, and we think we could
recover that money within a two-year period or three-year period, or whatever the case may be.
Chairman Teele: What the nightclubs have all said, Johnny and Commissioner -- and this has
been the subject of a lot of meetings and discussion --
Vice Chairman Winton: They need parking.
Chairman Teele: They need parking. And what they don't need is somebody coming in here
trying to create a market and set a market. We have said, in all of the meetings that we've had,
all of which have been public, we will charge the lowest going rate in the area on weekends. The
lowest going rate. We are not in this, at all, to try to maximize the dollars for parking. We are
more interested in seeing the Performing Arts Center have children come there, and buses have a
place to park. We're more interested in seeing nightclubs operate, that have people go there, and
they don't have to compete with the parking vendors inside the club.
51 June 27, 2002
Mr. Noriega: Mr. Chair, if I can. As a standard rule of thumb, the City and this Commission
controls all of the rates established within the City of Miami, through a rate ordinance.
Chairman Teele: This Commission is not the CRA. This is the CRA.
Mr. Noriega: The Commission, then, establishes rates within the City of Miami, and all of my
rates are adjusted by rate ordinance, and that rate ordinance is specifically managed by the City
Commission. So, any wish to regulate rates, in terms of hours of operation and specific rates per
hour, can easily be mandated by the City Commission.
Vice Chairman Winton: Here's what I'm worried about, because I've talked to the same folks
you have, who want something -- get parking done. Get it done tomorrow. They need it now.
They don't need it six months from now, a year from now. And I want to make sure that gets
done. You want to make sure that gets done. So, I don't care if the CRA does it. Personally, I
don't care if the CRA does it or Off -Street Parking. What I'm nervous about, though, is that I do
want to make sure that something happens. I'm not sure how I guarantee that something
happens, one way or the other. Tell me what this action that we're about to do here really does.
Chairman Teele: There's only two things before us. One is authorizing the general counsel or
special counsel and Ms Lewis to update the existing agreement. The second one is to authorize
the Executive Director to enter into a joint participation agreement with the Florida Department
of Transportation, FDOT, to build it out. And further, to allow the consulting engineer to
prepare the 30% design. So, in other words, we'll do the 30% design, if you're -- and how long
would that take, Mr...?
Mr. Calas: Thirty percent plan should be done within a month, a month and a half, sir.
Chairman Teele: So, within a month and a half, we will turn over, if this goes forward, a 30%
design. Let's say, 2%. And DOT will issue -- what do they call those things?
Mr. Calas: They have a push button contract, which they can go towards the design build
project, and get it on real -- right away. They don't have to advertise it. They have the
contractors on board.
Chairman Teele: So, that's already been worked out?
Mr. Calas: That's part of the agreement, sir.
Chairman Teele: And that's all we're being asked -- you're being asked -- all you're asked to do
is to authorize the consulting engineer to do the 30% design, and turn the 30% design over to the
Florida DOT for the execution of the agreement, for them to issue a push-button contract, which
will have a contractor in, and building the thing out, all within a matter of 180 days. Is that a fair
statement, Mr. Calas?
Mr. Calas: That's a fair statement, sir.
52 June 27, 2002
Board Member Sanchez: Johnny, you satisfied?
Vice Chairman Winton: Yeah. And there's one last thing bothering me, and that is just the
whole economics here, which we don't have in front of us. So, we don't know what the cost of
all this is. We don't have any income streams. We don't have any of that jazz. So, that --
Chairman Teele: We have relative costs, per -- based upon the number of parking spaces. This
is a rule of thumb. One parking space equals "X" dollars if it's underneath 395. It's "Y" dollars
if it's surface, and it's "Z" dollars if it's a structure. What's the right number --
Mr. Calas: Commissioner, take into consideration when we look at parking under the
expressway with drainage, landscaping, lighting, security and everything, we figure that's going
to be about fifteen hundred dollars ($1,500) a space. That's pretty much --
Vice Chairman Winton: No. I don't want it all verbal. I want a financial model done. We need
the financial model in front of us, at our next CRA board meeting, a complete financial model, so
that we understand exactly what's going on. And action steps and time lines, so that everybody's
crystal clear on what the steps are, who's got the responsibility for the steps, what the timing is
for each of those steps, and complete financial model. Then, I think --
Chairman Teele: With your permission, then, can we bring that back on the 9tn9
Vice Chairman Winton: Yes.
Chairman Teele: All right. Then we'll move to defer the two items -- the three items associated
with this item. Is there anything else on that that you'd like, Commissioner Winton?
Vice Chairman Winton: No. That -- then we've got everything we need, and we're comfortable
that we can rock and roll.
Chairman Teele: Madam Director, I would request that you meet with the Manager -- the
Assistant Manager, Ms. Sue Hudak, over at the County, and to cause and to issue a request -- Mr.
Marcos, would you help us -- and ask Ms. Sue Hudak and the current -- and the new president of
the Performing Arts Center come over and let's also discuss, as a part of this, Commissioner
Winton, the Performing Arts needs, long term needs, as it relates to the community mobilization
requirements that they have, which is about 150 buses a day, for which we're still looking for
additional space that we can assist them with the -- where those buses are going to be parked.
And so, that would be just one item relating to 395, and we might invite the parking -- the club
people, as well, on that item, to address it. The next item is the joint participation agreement
with the Miami -Dade School Board. This is authorizing --
Board Member Gonzalez: Did we vote? Did we vote on this?
Vice Chairman Winton: No. We deferred.
Chairman Teele: To defer.
53 June 27, 2002
om
Board Member Gonzalez: Oh, to defer.
Chairman Teele: Move --
Vice Chairman Winton: Yeah.
Chairman Teele: Motion to defer by Commissioner Winton --
Board Member Gonzalez: Second.
Chairman Teele: -- for a special meeting on the 9th, on this item only. Moved and second. Is
there objection? All those in favor, say "aye."
The Board Members (Collectively): Aye.
Chairman Teele: All those opposed say "no."
The following motion was introduced by Vice Chairman Winton, who moved for its adoption:
SEOPW/CRA MOTION NO. 02-120
OMNI MOTION NO. 02-53
A MOTION TO CONTINUE CONSIDERATION OF THE FOLLOWING
AGENDA ITEMS TO THE CITY COMMISSION MEETING CURRENTLY
SCHEDULED FOR JULY 9, 2002:
A. RESOLUTION ACKNOWLEDGING RESOLUTION SEOPW/CRA R-
00-80 AND INSTRUCTING SPECIAL COUNSEL TO UPDATE THE
EXISTING AIRSPACE AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CRA AND THE
FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION (FDOT) FOR THE SOLE
PURPOSE OF LEASING THE AIRSPACE UNDER I-395 BETWEEN NW 3RD
AVENUE TO BISCAYNE BOULEVARD FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF A
PUBLIC PARKING LOT AND STORAGE AREA CONSISTENT WITH THE
CRA REDEVELOPMENT PLAN.
54 June 27, 2002
B. RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE CRA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
TO ENTER INTO A JOINT PARTICIPATION AGREEMENT (WITH THE
FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION (FDOT) FOR THE
DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION OF A PARKING LOT AND STORAGE
AREA UNDERNEATH I-395, BETWEEN BISCAYNE BOULEVARD AND
NW 3RD AVENUE, FOR THE SOLE PURPOSE OF PUBLIC PARKING AND
STORAGE AREA; AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR AND
SPECIAL COUNSEL TO EXECUTE THE "1-395 JOINT PARTICIPATION
AGREEMENT"; FURTHER AUTHORIZING CRA CONSULTING
ENGINEER TO PREPARE A 30% DESIGN PLAN FOR SUBMITTAL TO
FDOT WITHIN THIRTY (30) DAYS; FURTHER DESIGNATING CRA
CONSULTING ENGINEER AS OWNERS REPRESENTATIVE TO THE
PROJECT.
C. RESOLUTION REQUESTING THE MIAMI CITY MANAGER TO
AMEND ORDINANCE NO. 11917 WHICH CREATED THE 24 HOUR
PARKWEST ENTERTAINMENT DISTRICT, BY PROHIBITING
DEVELOPERS FROM OBTAINING DEVELOPMENT CREDITS FOR THE
CONSTRUCTION OF A PUBLIC PARKING LOT AND STORAGE AREA
UNDERNEATH 1-395 BETWEEN BISCAYNE BOULEVARD AND NW 3RD
AVENUE.
(Here follows body of motion, omitted here and on file in the Office of the City Clerk.)
Upon being seconded by Board Member Gonzalez, the motion was passed and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Chairman Arthur E. Teele, Jr.
Vice Chairman Johnny L. Winton
Board Member Angel Gonzalez
Board Member Joe Sanchez
Board Member Tomas Regalado
NAYS: None.
ABSENT: None.
55 June 27, 2002
39. AUTHORIZE CRA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR TO ENTER INTO JOINT
PARTICIPATION AGREEMENT WITH MIAMI DADE COUNTY SCHOOL BOARD FOR
JOINT USE AND RE -DEVELOPMENT OF MIAMI SKILLS CENTER AS PROJECT SITE
FOR CULTURE AND TECHNOLOGY CENTER.
Chairman Teele: On item number 9, is there any need to discuss the item?
Board Member Sanchez: Budgetary impact?
Chairman Teele: There is no budgetary impact, at this point. The idea is, it should be not to
enter into an agreement, but to develop an agreement. And I think that the word "enter
agreement" may be a little bit overstated. The School Board has passed a resolution, 30 days
ago, authorizing the Executive Director to sit down -- the Superintendent of the schools to meet
with Ms. Lewis, and to develop an agreement around the old Miami Skills Center. And just so
that it's very clear -- and I want to make this just very brief -- the Skills Center has been
abandoned, and we're not talking about skills center like the other item that was on the agenda.
We're talking about a performing arts, oriented, technology and skill center that would have set
preparation, electronic issues, lighting, sound stage, and trying to present a workforce that is able
to respond to the opportunities, as well as the challenges, of the Performing Arts Center. The
School Board is prepared to give to the CRA (Community Redevelopment Agency), for one
dollar ($1), the rights to the entire Skills Center area, subject to a reversion, at some point in
time, for the purpose of designing a culture component that would be very, very consistent with
what is going on directly in front of -- across the street. Is Mr. Rodriguez here? He left? And
Mr. Rodriguez is also, I understand, very enthusiastic about the concept of trying to train people
limited -- in a very limited area under the articulation agreement, to things related to culture and
the Performing Arts Center, and the kinds of unique opportunities that are going to be created for
sound techs, lighting techs, set preparation people, et cetera. And I want to underscore to the
community, in light of the paved discussion, this will not be a traditional vocational training area.
And anything that we do must be very sensitive to that issue, that this would be solely limited to
culture, and that's what the School Board has agreed to.
Board Member Sanchez: Move to direct the Executive Director to enter an agreement to come
back for final approval to the CRA, that must have project certain, time certain, and cost certain.
Vice Chairman Winton: Second. But a point of --
Board Member Gonzalez: Second.
Chairman Teele: Discussion.
Board Member Gonzalez: Discussion.
Vice Chairman Winton: I would suggest that with this, that we do form a committee of local
activists there, which would include Eugene Rodriguez, to help make sure that the development
of this site and the use of this site, where -- so that everybody's singing from the same sheet of
music, and we don't get one sheet over here and another sheet over here.
56 June 27, 2002
Chairman Teele: I couldn't agree with you more. I think that's very important. And I would
think, Ms. Lewis, that as a part of that articulation agreement, there should be a requirement that
is amending this. I would take that as an amendment to the motion, if you would accept it.
Vice Chairman Winton: Yes. Yes, please.
Chairman Teele: Requiring that there be a community articulation or advisory group that will
oversee the kinds of activities and training that would go on there.
Board Member Sanchez: The maker of the motion accepts the amendment.
Chairman Teele: The other thing -- it's all in the background. The only thing that I would offer
for full disclosure is that the School Board would also like for us to incorporate this, as a part of
an office complex, for their entire vocational areas that would, in fact, be available, not for
training, but just for office space, et cetera. Again, what we need are high quality people in the
area. We need the kinds of, you know --
Vice Chairman Winton: With disposable income.
Chairman Teele: With disposable income -- to use our restaurants and use the kinds of things
that we're looking at there. Right now, they're all over the community, all over Dade County,
and they see this as a way to do it. They've got the money, Johnny -- Commissioner, to pay a
rental -- a substantial market rental. They just don't have the dollars to work through this whole
process.
Vice Chairman Winton: This could be a --
Chairman Teele: All right.
Vice Chairman Winton: Call the question.
Chairman Teele: All those in -- as amended, all those in favor, say "aye."
The Board Members (Collectively): Aye.
Chairman Teele: All opposed?
57 June 27, 2002
I.,
The following resolution was introduced by Board Member Sanchez, who moved for its
adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. OMNI 02-54
A RESOLUTION OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE OMNI
COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY (CRA) AUTHORIZING THE
CRA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR TO ENTER INTO A JOINT PARTICIPATION
AGREEMENT WITH MIAMI DADE COUNTY SCHOOL BOARD FOR THE
JOINT USE AND RE -DEVELOPMENT OF THE MIAMI SKILLS CENTER
AS THE PROJECT SITE FOR THE CULTURE AND TECHNOLOGY
CENTER.
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here and on file in the Office of the City Clerk.)
Upon being seconded by Vice Chairman Winton, the resolution was passed and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Chairman Arthur E. Teele, Jr.
Vice Chairman Johnny L. Winton
Board Member Angel Gonzalez
Board Member Tomas Regalado
Board Member Joe Sanchez
NAYS: None.
ABSENT: None.
58 June 27, 2002
40. AUTHORIZE CRA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR TO ENTER INTO JOINT
PARTICIPATION AGREEMENT WITH FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF
TRANSPORTATION (FDOT) FOR REMOVAL OF ALL CHAIN LINKED FENCING
SURROUNDING FDOT PROPERTIES/RIGHT-OF-WAY LOCATED WITHIN CRA
REDEVELOPMENT AREAS; PROVIDE FOR REPLACEMENT AND INSTALLATION OF
DECORATIVE FENCING SURROUNDING SAID PROPERTIES.
Chairman Teele: This is a resolution authorizing the Executive Director to enter into a joint
participation agreement with the DOT (Department of Transportation), for the removal of all
chain linked fencing surrounding the DOT properties and right-of-ways within the
redevelopment area.
Vice Chairman Winton: So moved.
Chairman Teele: And further providing for the --
Board Member Gonzalez: Second.
Chairman Teele: -- replacement and installation of decorative fencing around the areas. And,
again, Commissioners, let me just say what this is all about. This is about the same parking lots,
now. As you come down 395, and you look at the mess that we've got down there, it looks like a
prison stockade. Where's Mr. Noriega? If he wants to be helpful, he can begin by taking the
parking that he's got there -- and that should be the next motion that I put on the City
Commission, then, is that they need to remove all of these chain linked fence --
Vice Chairman Winton: I'll support that, completely.
Board Member Sanchez: Put decorative fencing.
Chairman Teele: Say again.
Board Member Sanchez: And put decorative --
Chairman Teele: And put decorative fencing around.
Vice Chairman Winton: Absolutely.
Chairman Teele: I mean, there's no --
Vice Chairman Winton: Absolutely right.
Chairman Teele: Who would have in downtown Miami or downtown Madrid or downtown
Barcelona the kind of mess we have in downtown Miami?
Vice Chairman Winton: Well, look at all the County's facilities. They're all chain -linked
fences.
59 June 27, 2002
Chairman Teele: They're the worst. Motion is moved and seconded. All those in favor, say
aye.
The Board Members (Collectively): Aye.
Chairman Teele: Those opposed?
The following resolution was introduced by Vice Chairman Winton, who moved for its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. SEOPW/CRA 02-121
RESOLUTION NO. OMNI 02-55
A RESOLUTION OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE SOUTHEAST
OVERTOWN PARKWEST (SEOPW) COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT
AGENCY (CRA) AUTHORIZING THE CRA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR TO
ENTER INTO A JOINT PARTICIPATION AGREEMENT WITH FLORIDA
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION (FDOT) FOR THE REMOVAL OF
ALL CHAIN LINKED FENCING SURROUNDING FDOT
PROPERTIES/RIGHT-OF-WAY LOCATED WITHIN THE CRA
REDEVELOPMENT AREAS; FURTHER PROVIDING FOR THE
REPLACEMENT AND INSTALLATION OF DECORATIVE FENCING
SURROUNDING SAID PROPERTIES.
AND
A RESOLUTION OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE OMNI
COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY (CRA) AUTHORIZING THE
CRA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR TO ENTER INTO A JOINT PARTICIPATION
AGREEMENT WITH FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
(FDOT) FOR THE REMOVAL OF ALL CHAIN LINKED FENCING
SURROUNDING FDOT PROPERTIES/RIGHT-OF-WAY LOCATED WITHIN
THE CRA REDEVELOPMENT AREAS; FURTHER PROVIDING FOR THE
REPLACEMENT AND INSTALLATION OF DECORATIVE FENCING
SURROUNDING SAID PROPERTIES.
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here and on file in the Office of the City Clerk.)
60 June 27, 2002
Upon being seconded by Board Member Gonzalez, the resolution was passed and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Chairman Arthur E. Teele, Jr.
Vice Chairman Johnny L. Winton
Board Member Angel Gonzalez
Board Member Tomas Regalado
Board Member Joe Sanchez
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None.
Chairman Teele: High Seas Trading request technical -- Ms. Lewis, what is this? Item 14.
Annette Lewis (Executive Director of CRA): That's --
Vice Chairman Winton: What item?
Ms. Lewis: -- what we just finished with. It's in the supplemental agenda, sir.
Chairman Teele: Request for a personal appearance. Is the person here?
Vice Chairman Winton: We don't -- I don't have --
Chairman Teele: High Seas Trading Company.
Ms. Lewis: It's the supplemental agenda, sir.
Chairman Teele: They're not here? It'll be temporarily passed.
Vice Chairman Winton: I don't have any High Seas Trading Company here.
Chairman Teele: Update on 11'h Street alignment is temporarily passed. Update on Poinciana
Village. Is there something on Poinciana Village, sir, that you'd like to be heard on? If not, it's
temporarily passed.
61 June 27, 2002
om
41. AUTHORIZE GENERAL COUNSEL TO AMEND CONTRACT WITH DOUG BRUCE &
ASSOCIATES BY INCREASING CONTRACT AMOUNT FOR GOVERNMENTAL
REPRESENTATION IN TALLAHASSEE ON BEHALF OF CRA; REQUIRE THAT DOUG
BRUCE & ASSOCIATE INCLUDE TIDEWATER CONSULTING AS SUB -CONSULTANT
TO CONTRACT.
Chairman Teele: And item 13. I would like the pleasure of yielding to Vice Chairman Winton
to move item number 13, for discussion.
Vice Chairman Winton: What did you ask me to do? I'm sorry. I'm still trying to figure out
item 13. What did you say?
Chairman Teele: I would like the pleasure of moving item 13 --
Vice Chairman Winton: So, I'm chairing?
Chairman Teele: -- which is authorizing the general counsel to amend the contract with Doug
Bruce, and to -- on behalf of our representation in Tallahassee.
Vice Chairman Winton: Oh, I see. OK. So, we have a motion on 13, which is the amendment
of a contract.
Board Member Sanchez: Second.
Vice Chairman Winton: We have a motion and a second. Any further discussion on this item?
Chairman Teele: Mr. Chairman, I would just like to say one thing. This CRA (Community
Redevelopment Agency) has been very, very fortunate, I think. Both the City and the CRA have
worked in tandem, but -- and I know that the County is extremely aware of this, because I spoke
to Dr. Morris, at least three times, during the legislative session. Our representatives in
Tallahassee were able to do some very creative things on behalf, I think, of redevelopment
authorities all over the state. One of the things that Orlando has been able to do is use
redevelopment tax increment districts as a way of providing for capital funding for transportation
costs, such as building exchanges along the I-4 corridor. There is a whole new legislative packet
that determines blight to be the lack of transportation. It's very creative. But it was done by
Orange County. We have a unique problem, I believe, at Bicentennial Park, Mr. Chairman. And
that is the whole issue of the sewer facility, and many of these other things. Our representatives
have been exceptional in working with the staff, in getting the kinds of determination that has
brought accommodations from the redevelopment authority associations across the State, that
have commended this authority for making the environment and concern about the environment
a part of what redevelopment should be about. And I just wanted to acknowledge the law firm --
I mean, Doug Bruce & Associates and others, who work closely with them on this matter. And
they have certainly deserved the right to continue to represent us.
Vice Chairman Winton: So, we have a motion and a second. Any further discussion? Being
none, all in favor "aye."
62 June 27, 2002
The Board Members (Collectively): Aye.
Vice Chairman Winton: Like sign oppose. Motion carries.
The following resolution was introduced by Chairman Teele, who moved for its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. SEOPW/CRA 02-122
A RESOLUTION OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE SOUTHEAST
OVERTOWN/PARK WEST COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY
(THE "CRA") ACKNOWLEDGING RESOLUTION SEOPW/CRA R-01-82
AND AUTHORIZING GENERAL COUNSEL TO AMEND THE CONTRACT
WITH DOUG BRUCE & ASSOCIATES BY INCREASING THE CONTRACT
AMOUNT FOR GOVERNMENTAL REPRESENTATION IN TALLAHASSEE
ON BEHALF OF THE CRA; FURTHER REQUIRING THAT DOUG BRUCE
& ASSOCIATE INCLUDE TIDEWATER CONSULTING AS A SUB -
CONSULTANT TO THE CONTRACT.
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here and on file in the Office of the City Clerk.)
Upon being seconded by Board Member Sanchez, the resolution was passed and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Chairman Arthur E. Teele, Jr.
Vice Chairman Johnny L. Winton
Board Member Angel Gonzalez
Board Member Tomas Regalado
Board Member Joe Sanchez
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None.
63 June 27, 2002
42. AUTHORIZE CRA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR TO ENTER INTO CONTRACT WITH
FENCE MASTERS FOR REMOVAL OF EXISTING FENCE AND INSTALLATION OF
NEW FENCE, $10,000, AROUND PROPERTY LOCATED AT 910 NW. 2ND COURT.
Board Member Sanchez: Can we take a recess?
Chairman Teele: Is there anything else, Madam Director, on the CRA?
Annette Lewis (Executive Director, CRA): Yes, sir. As a result of the CRA (Community
Redevelopment Agency) closing on 910 Northwest 2nd Court, which is a Divine Mission
property, we would like to install some fencing to secure that property, until we have actually,
you know, decided exactly --
Chairman Teele: Not chain link, I hope.
Board Member Sanchez: Decorative, temporary --
Ms. Lewis: David.
Vice Chairman Winton: Yeah, you can't put decorative fencing on a temporary deal, though.
Ms. Lewis: Temporary.
David Hernandez: That's correct. We're proposing just to put an eight foot chain link fence
around the property.
Chairman Teele: As long as it --
Vice Chairman Winton: For how long?
Chairman Teele: -- is not steel chain link, but it is rubberized. It has the cover, so that it doesn't
have that prison guard look, and it only costs about twenty cent ($0.20) more a foot. It's a world
of difference.
Mr. Hernandez: We don't have a problem with that. We don't have a problem with that.
Vice Chairman Winton: What's the cost?
Ms. Lewis: The cost --
Mr. Hernandez: It's --
Ms. Lewis: Go ahead.
Vice Chairman Winton: Approximately.
64 June 27, 2002
on
Mr. Hernandez: Approximately, it's eight -- it's going to cost the -- it's a little (INAUDIBLE)
60. It's about 8,400.
Chairman Teele: Not to exceed.
Mr. Hernandez: Eight foot -- not to exceed --
Chairman Teele: Ten thousand dollars ($10,000).
Vice Chairman Winton: Ten thousand.
Mr. Hernandez: Ten thousand, that's correct. It's about sixteen dollars ($16) a linear foot.
Vice Chairman Winton: So moved.
Mr. Hernandez: Four dollars ($4) to --
Chairman Teele: Moved by Commission Winton.
Board Member Regalado: Second.
Chairman Teele: By Commissioner Regalado. Objection? Discussion? All those in favor, say
aye.
11
The Board Members (Collectively): Aye.
Chairman Teele: Those opposed have the same right.
The following resolution was introduced by Vice Chairman Winton, who moved for its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. SEOPW/CRA 02-123
A RESOLUTION OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE SOUTHEAST
OVERTOWN/PARK WEST (SEOPW) COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT
AGENCY (CRA) AUTHORIZING THE CRA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR TO
ENTER INTO A CONTRACT WITH FENCE MASTERS, AN APPROVED
VENDOR OF THE CITY OF MIAMI, FOR THE REMOVAL OF THE
EXISTING FENCE AND THE INSTALLATION OF A NEW FENCE, IN AN
AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $10,000, AROUND THE PROPERTY
LOCATED AT 910 NW. 2ND COURT, MIAMI, FLORIDA, L.F. (110' X 200).
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here and on file in the Office of the City Clerk.)
65 June 27, 2002
M
Upon being seconded by Board Member Gonzalez, the resolution was passed and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Chairman Arthur E. Teele, Jr.
Vice Chairman Johnny L. Winton
Board Member Angel Gonzalez
Board Member Tomas Regalado
Board Member Joe Sanchez
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None.
Chairman Teele: Any other matter?
Ms. Lewis: That's all I have, sir.
66 June 27, 2002
43. (A) ADJOURN TODAY'S COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY (CRA)
MEETING.
(B) GRANT APPEAL OF ZONING BOARD DECISION, WHICH DENIED SPECIAL
EXCEPTION AS LISTED IN ORDINANCE NO. 11000, CITY'S ZONING ORDINANCE,
SECTION 401, SCHEDULE OF DISTRICT REGULATIONS, TO ALLOW SUPPER CLUB
AT 3632-3634 NW 25TH AVENUE, (Applicant(s): Maribel Martinez)
Board Member Gonzalez: Can we have a recess, 10 minutes? Mr. Chairman, can we have a 10-
minute recess?
Board Member Regalado: Yes, we can. We can be back at 11. We need to do some PZ
(Planning and Zoning) items.
Chairman Teele: Mr. Chairman.
Board Member Gonzalez: Mr. Chairman, please. I'm sorry, Commissioner. Sorry. We have
some people here on PZ -- PZ-4, I believe it is from Allapattah. They have been here since one
o'clock this afternoon.
Vice Chairman Winton: Oh, my goodness.
Board Member Gonzalez: I don't know why they didn't --
Board Member Regalado: I know.
Chairman Teele: What's the item?
Board Member Gonzalez: I believe it's PZ-4.
Board Member Regalado: Thirty-six thirty-two Northwest 25th Avenue.
Board Member Gonzalez: That's correct. No. Wait a minute. Let me see.
Board Member Regalado: Is that -- who is here for --
Board Member Gonzalez: I'm sorry. PZ-4, right. 3632, 3634 Northwest 25th Avenue. They've
been here since one o'clock.
Lourdes Slazyk (Assistant Director of Planning & Zoning): PZ-4 is an appeal of a Zoning Board
decision, which denied a special exception to allow a Supper Club. The Planning and Zoning
Department had recommended approval, with a condition for the special exception, and we
recommend approval, with conditions of the appeal. The condition is that this license run with
this operator only. And if they change operators, they have to come back for a new special
exception.
67 June 27, 2002
Board Member Regalado: OK. This is a public hearing. You wish to say anything,
Commissioner? It's your district.
Board Member Gonzalez: No. If we don't have anybody -- don't have anybody from the public
here.
Alejandro Vilarello (City Attorney): Mr. Chairman, did you adjourn the CRA meeting?
Chairman Teele: Mr. Chairman, may I just -- on a point of procedure, I'm instructed that we
should adjourn the CRA meeting, which --
Board Member Regalado: OK. Would you -- before we do this, motion to adjourn the CRA
meeting.
Chairman Teele: Move.
Board Member Gonzalez: Second.
Chairman Teele: Moved and second. Moved and second. All in favor say "aye."
The Board Members (Collectively): Aye.
The following motion was introduced by Chairman Teele, who moved for its adoption:
SEOPW/CRA MOTION NO. 02-124
OMNI MOTION NO. 02-56
A MOTION TO ADJOURN TODAY'S COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT
AGENCY (CRA) MEETING.
(Here follows body of motion, omitted here and on file in the Office of the City Clerk.)
Upon being seconded by Board Member Gonzalez, the motion was passed and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Chairman Arthur E. Teele, Jr.
Vice Chairman Johnny L. Winton
Board Member Angel Gonzalez
Board Member Tomas Regalado
NAYS: None.
ABSENT: Board Member Joe Sanchez
Chairman Teele: All right.
68 June 27, 2002
IF
There being no further business to come before the Community Redevelopment Agency for the
Southeast Overtown/Park West and Omni District, the meeting was adjourned at 10:54 p.m.
ATTEST:
PRISCILLA A. THOMPSON
City Clerk
SYLVIA SCHEIDER
Assistant City Clerk
(SEAL)
ARTHUR E. TEELE, JR.,
Chairman
69 June 27, 2002
RECEIPT
DATE: October 3, 2002
SUBJECT: Minutes for the June 27, 2002, July 9, 2002 and August 22,
2002 CRA Meeting
MAYOR DIAZ
VICE CHAIRMAN WINTON
COMMISSIONER GONZALEZ
COMMISSIONER SANCHEZ
CHAIRMAN REGALADO
COMMISSIONER TEELE
Received By:
ti
a
RECEIPT
DATE: October 3, 2002
SUBJECT: Minutes for the June 27, 2002, July 9, 2002 and August 22,
2002 CRA Meeting
Received By:
MAYOR DIAZ
VICE CHAIRMAN WINTON
COMMISSIONER GONZALEZ
COMMISSIONER SANCHEZ
CHAIRMAN REGALADO
COMMISSIONER TEELE