HomeMy WebLinkAboutCC 1984-11-15 MinutesCOMMISSION
MINUTES
OF MEETING HELD ON . November 15, 1984
(PLANNING & ZONING)
PREPARED BY THE OFFICE OF THE CITY CLERK
CITY HALL
RALPH G.. ONGIE
CITY CLERK
!1e
i
INDEX
MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING
CITY COMMISSION OF MIAMI, FLORIDA
ITEM
SUBJECT NOVEMBER 15, 1984
LEGISLATION
PAGE
NO.
NO.
1.
RECOGNITION OF OWNERS OF LES VIOLINS.
DISCUSSION
1
2.
PERSONAL APPEARANCE: ROSE GORDON RE: PURCHASE OF
PROPERTY ADJACENT TO ORANGE BOWL STADIUM.
REAFFIRM INTENTION TO BUY.
M-84-1295
1-2
3
DISCUSSION ITEM: INTERNAATIONAL TRADE AND
DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE.
DISCUSSION
2-10
4
ESTABLISH DATE OF DECEMBER 20 AS DATE OF PUBLIC
HEARING DISPUTE REGARDING "CHARLIE'S PLACE" (BAR
-
IN COCONUT GROVE)
M-84-1296
10-14
5
BRIEF DISCUSSION: COMMISSIONER DAWKINS STATEMENT
ABOUT CRIME IN COCONUT GROVE AREA AND POLICE
RESPONSE.
DISCUSSION
14-15
6
ALLOCATE ONE MONTH FUNDING "MIAMI DADE TRADE AND
TOURISM COMMISSION" -REFER REQUEST FOR $150,000
TO CITY MANAGER. COMMEND MR. H.T. SMITH FOUNDING
CHAIRPERSON FOR HIS EFFORTS
M-84-1297
15-17
M-84-1298
7
RATIFY ACTION IN ALLOCATION OF $35,000
ALLAPATTAH MERCHANTS ASSOCIATION. ADMINISTRATIVE
TECHNICAL SOUPPORT TO LDC. ALLAPATTAH SHOPPING
CENTER ETC.
R-84-1299
17-19
8
RESOLUTION PROVIDING IN -KIND SERVICES AND FEE
WAIVERS: MAGIC ILE CULTURAL INDUSTRIAL FAIR ETC.
WITH CONDITIONS; TWO DAY PERMIT TO SELL BEER AND
t
WINE, ETC.
R-84-1300
19-20
l 9
CONDOLENCES TO FAMILY OF DONAL STEWART ON THE
SAD OCASION OF HIS DEATH.
R-84-1301
20-22
10
AUTHORIZE AMOUNT -ONE DAY RENTAL FEE LITTLE
HAVANA COMMUNITY CENTER: READINGS BY CUBAN POET
DANIEL ROMAN
M-84-1302
22-23
11
DISCUSSION ITEM: SPECIAL MEETING ON BAYSIDE.
DISCUSSION
23-24
12
FORMALIZING RESOLUTION: METRO TO STOP USING
I.D.B.S. FOR RELOCATION OF BUSINESS FROM THE
CITY OF MIAMI
R-84-1303
24-25
13
DISCUSSION: PROPOSED PROCEDURES TO BE USED
CONCERNING THE REMOVAL OF CITY MANAGER, HOWARD
V. GARY.
DISCUSSION
25-27
14
A MOTION OFFICIALLY CONTINUING SEVERAL AGENDA
ITEMS BACK TO PERTINENT BOARDS FOR STUDY, MAKING
PROVISIONS FOR A REVIEW COMMITTEE ON THIS
LEGISLATION, ETC.
M-84-1304
27-35
15
SECOND READING ORDINANCE: CHANGE ZONING
CLASSIFICATION 3400-3490 S. DIXIE HIGHWAY AND
3640 BIRD AVENUE FROM RO-2.1/5 AND RG-2.1/3.3 TO
`-
CR-2/5.
ORD.9933
35-36
L
i
16
SECOND READING ORDINANCE: CHANGE ZONING
CLASSIFICATION 2531 S.W. 37 AVENUE FROM CR-2/7
TO CR-2/8.
17
DISCUSSION AND TEMPORARY DEFERRAL: PETITION FOR
CHANGE OF ZONING AREA S.W. 32 AVENUE, OAK
AVENUE, W. BOUNDARY KIRK MONROE PARK. ETC.
18
EXTEND LIQUOR HOURS N.C.O.P. ON SUNDAYS DURING
DECEMBER.
19
MOTION DENYING APPLICATION FOR CHANGER OF ZONING
AREA S.W. 32 ASVENUE OAK AVENUE, W. BOUNDARY OF
KIRK MONROE PARK
20
AUTHORIZE CITY MANAGER TO ALLOCATE $200,000
PURCHASE ON LEASE OF LIGHTING EQUIPMENT FOR
CONVENTION CENTER IN CONNECTION WITH FORTHCOMING
BEAUTY PAGEANTS.
21
AUTHORIZE 2-DAY PERMIT FOR SALE OF BEER: CERAMIC
LEAGUE OF MIAMI-KENNETH MYERS PARK DECEMBER 1 &
2.
22
BRIEF DISCUSSION AND TEMPORARY DEFERRAL: REQ.
FOR CHANGE OF ZONING 2210 S.W. 16 ST. & 1600-02
S.W. 22 AVENUE.
23
FORMALIZING RESOLUTION: ALLOCATE $50,000 PARTLY
UNDERWRITE 15TH ANNUAL BUDWEISER UNLIMITED
HYDROPLANE REGATTA. ETC.
24
REQUEST METRO ON NEXT DREDGING REQUEST TO CORPS
OF ENGINEERES, DREDGING PERMIT 32' PROPERTY
ADJACENT TO BICENTENNIAL PARK FOR VISITING U.S.
NAVAL SHIPS AND OTHER TOURIST ORIENTED SHIPS.
' 25
PUBLIC HEARING AND TEMPORARY DEFERRAL: REQUEST
FOR CHANGE OF ZONING 2210 S.W. 16 ST. AND 1600-
022 S.W. 22 AVENUE.
26
INSTRUCT PLANNING DEPARTMENT TO CONSIDER
AMENDMENT TO ZONING ORDINANCE ZI-84-14 "CHANGE
OF USE IN CONVENIENCE ESTABLISHMENTS" TO INCLUDE
TRAVEL AGENCIES.
27
FIRST READING ORDINANCE: CHANGE ZONING
CLASSIFICATION" 2210 S.W. 16 ST. AND 1600-02
S.W. 22 AVENUE FROM RS-2/2 TO CR-1/7
28
APPROVE IN PRINCIPLE APPLICATION OF NEW
CHRISTIAN HOSPITAL INC. GRANT FOR 150 BEDS
HOSPITAL; STATE INTENT OF CITY COMMISSION IF
CITY IS SUCCESSFUL IN GRANT, CITY WILL ALLOCATE
$300,000 FROM NEXT YEAR'S C.D. FUNDS ETC.
29
ALLOCATE $10,000 TO PRICE WATERHOUSE,
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES RE: FUNDING FOR PROPOSED
CHRISTIAN HOSPITAL.
30
AUTHORIZE FINAL APPLICATION FOR MAJOR USE
SPECIAL PERMIT. GROVE BAY PLAZA, LTD. TERREMARK
AT BAYSHORE, INC. A.T.H. CURACAO, NV.
31
AUTHORIZE FINAL APPLICATION FOR MAJOR USE
SPECIAL PERMIT, BRICKELL STATION TOWERS, INC.
32
SECOND PUBLIC HEARING ON PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT OF
COMMODORE BAY PROJECT IN COCONUT GROVE.
CONTINUED TO DECEMBER 12, 6:00 P.M.
33
APPROVE IN PRINCIPLE: APPLICATION OF CONGRESS
BUILDING PARTNERS FOR UDAG GRANT.
ORD. 9934 36-37
DISCUSSION 37-52
R-84-1305 52-53
M-84-1306
M-84-1307
R-84-1308
DISCUSSION
R-84-1309
M-84-1310
DISCUSSION
M-84-1311
1ST READING
R-84-1312
M-84-1313
R-84-1314
R-84-1315
R-84-1316
M-84-1317
R-84-1318
53-54
54-55
56
56-58
58-59
59-61
m-ulms
91-95
95-99
99-100
100-101
101-103
104-143
144
I
-
34
APPROVE IN PRINCIPLE: APPLICATION OF LITTLE
_
HAVANA PROFESSIONAL OFFICE BUILDING PARTNERSHIP
FOR UDAG GRANT.
R-84-1319
144-147
35
EXPRESS CONCERN TO STATE DEPARTMENT NATURAL
RESOURCES CONCERNING POSSIBLE STATE PURCHASE OF
PROPERTY ADJACENT TO BARNACLE, 3471 MAIN
HIGHWAY.
M-84-1320
146-151
36
FIRST READING ORDINANCE: TEXT AMENDMENT SIGNS,
LIMITATIONS ETC. ARTICLE 20.
1ST READING
152-157
37
SECOND READING ORDINANCE: ARTICLE 35 AMENDMENTS,
FAILURE OF CITY COMMISSION TO ACT, PROVISION
COMMISSION MAY CONTINUE TO DATE CERTAIN, ETC.
ORD.9935
157-158
38
APPOINTMENT OF PERSONS TO BLUE RIBBON COMMITTEE
TO STUDY VARIOUS PLANNING AND ZONING PROPOSED
PIECES OF LEGISLATION.
M-84-1321
159
39
ALLOCATE $88,537 FY 84-85 F.R.S.F. FOR
PREVIOUSLY APPROVED SOCIAL SERVICE AGENCIES 19
1984 THROUGH SEPTEMBER 30, 1985.(ONE-TWELFTH).
R-84-1322
159-161
3
40.
RATIFY ACTION ON CITY MANAGER IN EXTENDING
DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSION OF R.F.P.S. FOR
SOUTHEAST OVERTOWN PARK/WEST REDEVELOPMENT
PROJECT.
R-84-1323
162
}
41
FIRST READING ORDINANCE: APPLY HERITAGE
CONSERVATION OVERLAY DISTRICRT HC-1 TO
MORNINGSIDE HISTORIC DISTRICT.
1ST READING
163-165
42
ESTABLISH DATE OF DECEMBER 3, 1984 AS DAY OF
SPECIAL MEETING TO CONSIDER ON -GOING MATTERS
CONCERNED WITH THE BAYSIDE DEVELOPMENT.
M-84-1324
165-166
43
AUTHORIZE AGREEMENT: MIAMI DADE COMMUNITY
COLLEGE ESTABLISH POLICE LIEUTENANT PROMOTIONAL
PROCEDURES.
R-84-1325
167
3
44
AUTHORIZE COMPETITIVE QUOTES: BORROW 12.4
MILLION TO INITIATE STORM DRAIN PROJECTS &
POLICE FACILITIES
R-84-1326
168
45
CONTINUE ALL OTHER ITEMS NOT TAKEN UP TO
1
DECEMBER 20, 1984.
M-84-1327
168
MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING OF THE
CITY COMMISSION OF MIAMI, FLORIDA
On the 15th day of November, 1984, the City Commission
of Miami, Florida, met at its regular meeting place in the
City Hall, 3500 Pan American Drive, Miami, Florida in
regular session.
The meeting was called to order at 9:13 A.M. O'Clock
A.M. by Mayor Maurice A. Ferre with the following members of
the Commission found to be present:
Commissioner Miller J. Dawkins
Commissioner J. L. Plummer, Jr.
Vice -Mayor Demetrio Perez, Jr.
Mayor Maurice A. Ferre
ALSO PRESENT:
Howard V. Gary, City Manager
Lucia Allen Dougherty, City Attorney
Ralph G. Ongie, City Clerk
Matty Hirai, Assistant City Clerk
An invocation was delivered by Mayor Ferre who then led
those present in a pledge of allegiance to the flag.
1. RECOGNITION OF OWNERS OF LES VIOLINS.
Proclamation: Declaring November 15th as Les Violins Day.
Presented to Jose Albino Currais, President,
and Alex Cachaldora, Vice -President.
2. PERSONAL APPEARANCE: ROSE GORDON RE: PURCHASE OF
PROPERTY ADJACENT TO ORANGE BOWL STADIUM -REAFFIRM
INTENTION TO BUY.
Mayor Ferre: We have two distinguished public servants and
we always go out, of our way to accommodate out of turn
people who have given or are giving of their time to welfare
of the community. One is the former Mayor of Opa Locka,
Helen Miller; we are honored to have you here - and a former
distinguished member of this Commission, Rose Gordon. Rose,
can we be of help to you today?
Mrs. Rose Gordon: Mr. Mayor and Commissioners, for
clarification on the action that was taken last week
regarding the purchase of the building adjacent to the
Orange Bowl, the stipulation and the resolution contained a
clause that funding to be from the Tourist, Development
Council. My point for clarification is whether the
Commission intends to purchase the property regardless of
that, decision and if so, I'd like to know because as I have
mentioned previously, there is a backup contract waiting for
ld 1 November 15, 1984
0 0
the Realty Board and it would be a disservice if they were
to lose that and that this ...
Mayor Ferre: Mrs. Gordon, the City of Miami would not be an
embarrassment to itself, to the Commission - the Manager, I
am sure would not, nor would we embarrass you or your
distinguished group. The intention of the City of Miami is
to buy your property.
Mrs. Gordon: All right.
Mayor Ferre: And if it is not, and I sure just to make you
feel a little bit better, so we will memorialize it into a
motion that it is the intention to purchase the property.
This is just a means of doing it. If this means does not
work, we will ask for another way of doing it, all right?
So would somebody so move that, it is the intention of the
City of Miami Commission to buy the property in front of the
Orange Bowl and the recommended form of financing is "A"
method. If that does not work, we will seek other methods
of financing.
i Mr. Plummer: I so move, Mr. Mayor.
Mr. Perez: Second.
Mayor Ferre: Further discussion?
Mr. Plummer: For the record, Mr. Mayor, I received a call.
f We have a meeting of the T.D.C. on Monday coming. I was
informed by the Director that there were no funds left, in
this year's funding, but possibly we could predicate on the
two coming years half of our amount, towards that purchase if
that is what the City wanted. As you know, that 20% of that
money is used for the Orange Bowl and this is for the Orange
Bowl, not maybe immediately, but for the Orange Bowl, so it
easily can be diverted for this purpose.
The following motion was introduced by
Commissioner Plummer, who moved its adoption:
MOTION NO. 84-1295
A MOTION TO REAFFIRM THE CITY'S
INTENTION TO PURCHASE PROPERTY FROM THE
MIAMI BOARD OF REALTORS ADJACENT TO THE
ORANGE BOWL STADIUM AND STIPULATING THAT
IF T.D.C. DOES NOT PROVIDE THE NECESSARY
FUNDING, THE CITY WOULD SEEK OTHER
SOURCES OF FUNDING TO ACCOMPLISH THIS
TRANSACTION.
Upon being seconded by Commissioner Perez, the motion
was passed and adopted by the following vote -
AYES: Commissioner Miller J. Dawkins
Commissioner J. L. Plummer, Jr.
Vice -Mayor Demetrio J. Perez, Jr.
Mayor Maurice A. Ferre
NOES: None.
ABSENT: Commissioner Joe Carollo
n
ld 2
November 15, 1964
- -----P-- ITEM------------------W--------------------
DISCU
INTERNATIONAL TRADE AND DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE.
------------------------------------------------------------
Mayor Ferre: Burton Landy of the City of Miami
International Trade and Development Committee said that we
have a major crisis because of the freeze. I said there is
nothing I could do about it. You come down and explain your
situation so at this time, Mr. Trablstad, the Executive
Director of the International Center, on behalf of the City
of Miami's committee and on behalf of the International
Center would like to make a statement. Mr. Manager?
Mr. Gary: Mr. Mayor and members of the Commission - Mayor,
you recall, you and I had a couple of meetings privately and
we also met, with Mr. Birger from the Herald.
Mayor Ferre: Oh yes, Larry Birger, right.
Mr. Gary: Right, and we agreed to establish a procedure to
get us back into the thick of international trade and one of
the things we agreed to was to set up a committee of people
who were involved in international trade who were known to
be involved and had expertise in international trade to set
up a master plan for the City of Miami, and they have been
working to do that as headed by Burton Landy and Mr.
Trablstad is there. We have Latin, Blacks and bankers who
2 are involved in international trade on this committee. One
of the assignments also was to go nationwide to find
qualified persons to head up international trade and they
proceeded to do that. We have got 100 or 200 some resumes.
They have gone through it. They have narrowed it down to
three and they prioritized those three and what they are
here to tell you now is the process they went through and to
request that the person which they have selected to be
allowed to be employed by the City of Miami by lifting the
freeze.
° Mr. Coleman Trablstad: Thank you, Mr. Manager. Gentlemen,
thank you. I am Colman Trablstad with the International
Center of Florida. I am also on the executive committee of
the City of Miami International Trade and Development,
Committee. Also I chaired the search committee, as the
Manager mentioned for the Assistant, Director of Economic
Development for International Trade. The other members of
that, committee, I think it is important that we recognize -
Burton Landy was on it; Ambler Moss, former Ambassador to
Panama and presently dean at the University of Miami;
Satraneno Lucio, local attorney; and Gladstone Cooper, a
local exporter. We believe that, international trade is
vital to this City of Miami. As this turnaround comes, we
are starting to see some turn around with the Latin trade.
We must, be prepared to take advantage of it. We must be in
the forefront in this movement. When we asked to help the
City determine who the new Assistant Director for Economic
Development for trade promotions should be, we went through
a process. We advertised in the all of the local papers -
the Herald, the News, several of the legal papers. We
advertised in the New York Times, the Wall Street, Journal,
in the Washington Post, as well as the Economist, which is a
magazine out of London. We received over 200 applications.
It is amazing, the qualifications of these people. We
narrowed that relatively quickly to 60 that did meet the
qualifications - the specfic relatively high level
qualifications that, we had set. We then cut that to an
additional 15 and circulated that to the full committee. It
was amazing. Of the five members of the full committee -
out of those 15, call five of us selected the same
individuals, so ....
Mayor Ferre: 15 finalists?
ld 3 November 15, 1984
a
Mr. Trablstad: 15 finalists on paper. We circulated that
and put it on a point system, but, it was very interesting
that all five of us selected the same individuals as our
number one choice. It went down from there with ...
Mayor Ferre: Who were the five people who did this?
Mr. Trablstad: This was Burton Landy, Ambler Moss, myself,
Satraneno Lucio and Gladstone Cooper. We then invited the
top three candidates to visit Miami and to meet individually
with the members of the committee. This was a process that
we went through over a period of about two weeks. We met
with these three candidates, they came from New York, from
Connecticut and from Washington, and once again, we had a
unanimous choice of an individual who believe was highly
qualified to fill this position.
Mayor Ferre: Is that name public yet? Do we know, or is
that ...
Mr. Trablstad: It has not been made public at this point.
Do you want ...
Mayor Ferre: I think this Commission might, - even though we
have no direct authority ...
7
Mr. Trablstad: His name is George Grafeld, he is presently
with the United Stated Department, of Commerce.
z
Mayor Ferre: How long has he been with the Department of
i Commerce?
Mr. Trablstad: He has been with the Department of Commerce
five years. He has ten years of international trade
experience. He is a graduate of the Thunderbird Institute
in Arizona for international trade. He has overseas
experience with the U. S. Department of Commerce in Germany
and he spent his first, fifteen years in Argentina, whereby
he speaks fluent Spanish, which is one of our criteria. The
three basic criteria that we were looking for, was a college
degree, preferably in business and international business,
at least five years experience in international trade and
fluent Spanish. He is has easily met all of t.nese, as did a
number of others. It was very interesting that, even though
we ended up selecting this one unanimously, there were an
amazing number of highly qualified individuals that applied
for this position. My urge is not necessarily to speak on
behalf of George Grafeld, but, what I am most interested in
f is that this Commission remove the freeze on that one
position. It is vital to our city that we move forward in
the area of international business and trade and we can only
1 do this if we have someone who is in charge of it and can
work with the City and with Charlotte as the head of the
economic development area, which we have seen some real turn
arounds in that area and we would like to continue that.
Thank you very much. I'd be happy to answer any questions.
Mr. Perez: Mr. Mayor, could I clarify something for the
record? I received a letter about two - three weeks ago,
Mr. Manuel Arques. He said that, he sent all the
information, the resume and everything, and he never
received an opportunity to have an interview with the board.
Would you clarify that, one for the record?
Mr. Trablstad: I have just been informed that he did apply.
He was one of the over 200 applications that we received
through our widespread applications. He made the first, cut
that was done by the staff of this City. We had determine
three specific areas that we wanted to make sure that all
the candidates had credibility and experience in. That was
s-
ld 4 November 15, 1984
_ .
�t
x:.
0
0
the Spanish, the experience and the education. He did not
however, make from that sixty, down to the last fifteen.
There were other candidates as determined by the committee
that, were more highly qualified.
Mr. Perez: Okay, could you send him a letter explaining
that, situation? ... and I would like to have a copy of that
one because he called in public, he called the attention
about, this issue he sent me a letter and also sent, some
friends trying to call the attention and I would like to
clarify.
Mr. Trablstad: Let me ... there is another interesting
sideline to this whole thing. When we cut, the first 140, we
sent letters immediately to them, thanking them. We also
said -"You know there are a lot of other positions down
here, if you would like your resume on file down here, and
interested in working in Miami", and many of them were not
in Miami at the time, we would be available to set up a file
for you at, the International Center and in the City and 30
of them had said - yes, they wanted that on file. We then
when through this process a little bit later and have sent
letters to the 45 that did not make that cut, and I believe
that. that letter has been sent to that gentlemen, and he
should have already received it by now.
i
Mr. Perez: I don"" have any complaints, but I want is to
preserve the credibility of the proceedings, that is all,
but I don't have any complaints.
i
Mr. Trablstad: Okay, we will make sure you get, a copy of
j' it. We will write a specific letter. I have not seen those
9 letters. If it did not include the process, we will be
happy to send him a letter explaining the process.
Mayor Ferre: Well, I think, Mr. Manager, for the
credibility of the process, I think that it is important
that all of these applicants, especially the local
applicants should be getting personalized letters from the
Charlotte, or whoever the appropriate person is in the the
Administration, explaining how the process went - there were
140 applicants, there was a short, list of 15 and 15 were
then brought to 3 and out of the 3, you selected, or
recommended Mr. George H. Grafeld. All right, are there any
other questions or statements at this time?
Mr. Plummer: Well, Mr. Mayor, my only statement is going to
l be not directly to this, but to the statement of the freeze
in itself. I believe that every one of the 181 positions, I
think is what, they are, are likewise, and I believe
justification could be given for all ...
Mayor Ferre: And I think they should be on an individual
basis ...
{
Mr. Plummer: ..# on an individual basis.
Mayor Ferre: ... and I am, for one, willing to consider them
that way and vote on them that way.
Mr. Plummer: Well, Mr. Mayor, at this particular time, I
would be reluctant to vote on this, because of some of the
other jobs that are frozen that. I think are much, much more
important to this city, and unless we are going to establish
a policy where we can hear these on an individual basis,
that is where I have the problem.
Mayor Ferre: Mr. Plummer, that, policy is already in
existence, as you might recall during the budget, process
when we made that motion, and we voted for it unanimously,
ld
5 November 15, 1984
0
we specifically stated that we would see them one by one
and would consider them as they were presented. Now, is
this is the first one, or the second time it is presented.
I will tell you, my position is this - I don't know Mr.
George Grafeld. I never heard of the name before five
minutes ago when it was proffered. Looking at his
background, the fact that he is a graduate of both Notre
Dame and the Thunderbird School - the Thunderbird happens to
be one of the best schools in the country, if not the best
for international management. I think that the fact that he
was a super salesman at Xerox and was three times the sales
representative of the month, that he went to the Department
of Commerce in 1978, which was during the Carter
Administration, and that he lasted through the Reagan
Administration means that the man must have something going
for him. The fact that he has moved up in the Department of
Commerce, I think speaks well for him and if he has been
selected out of 150 and this is the recommendation, I assume
this has the recommendation of the Administration - I think
the selection process was adequate. Now to the issue of
importance. I differ with my colleague here, J. L. Plummer,
to the relative importance of this job. I cannot think of a
more important task ahead of us than to get on with the
Trade Fair of the Americas, the African Trade Fair, which is
now been dormant for years, and which we have been
struggling with for five years. I cannot, think of something
that needs more and quicker attention than this. We do have
a committee. It is a distinguished committee. It is
composed of representation of all of the community, and I am
ready to vote for this, though I may be the only one that
will vote for it, but it has got my vote. I realize that
there are political connotations, but we really must, do this
strictly on the premise of merit, and I think this gentlemen
is eminently qualified, but it will require three votes.
Mr. Plummer: What is proposed to pay this individual?
Mr. Gary: It has to be negotiated.
Mr. Plummer: What are their perimeters?
Mr. Gary: The salary range is ...
Mr. Trablstad: I believe it is $37,000 to $54,000 as an
Assistant Director.
Mayor Ferre: How much? This is the job that, Frank Diaz-Pou
had before. Is it an expanded job, Mr. Manager?
Mr. Gary: Mr. Mayor, it is not, expanded. It is basically
the same job focusing on international trade.
Mayor Ferre: How much did the job pay before when Julio
Cost.ano and Frank Diaz-Pou were there?
Mr. Gary: The range was $44,000 to about $64,000 - in the
same range.
Mr. Perez: What is the budget of the Department, at this
time?
Mr. Gary: International Trade Division is ... I don't, have
those figures right off hand.
Mr. Perez: No more than $300,000 or $400,000?
Mr. Gary: Approximately $280,000.
Mr. Perez: $280,000? Personally I think International
Trade is one of the most important departments of this city
rk
a=:
ld 6 November 15, 1984
at this time. They are suppose to request. State and Federal
funds. Personally, I think this department is supposed to
be an independent department. I don't find any reason to be
a part, of Community Development. In my own position, as one
vote, I think that this department has to have its own
direction as an independent department, and not as a part, of
Community Development, and that, is my position and if we
have any time and any opportunity to discuss this issue, I
would like to preserve the integrity of this International
Development Department and I don't think they have any
reason to relate this one with Community Development. I
would like to recognize the efforts of this committee and
the recommendation I made with Burton Landy two times before
and I recognize also their efforts and in principle I
support whatever you recommend using those qualifications,
but, as a City matter, I would like to have this department
independent of Community Development. I think that is
supposed have its own budget, not, an Assistant Director - I
think it is supposed to have a Director as was in the past
with Julio Castano, with Diaz-Pou, but I am talking about
personal. I am talking about the structure and the purpose
of this department.
Mayor Ferre: I personally support Commissioner Perez'
statement and I go along with that, but I think what, we have
before us is a question of hiring individuals and I think
that it is a related matter and I accept that, but I think
we should not lose the opportunity of getting this
individual if we can. Then I think we can deal with the
issue. I think that is fair, and if you wish to make a
motion subsequent, to that, about, how the Department is run, I
will have no problems in seconding that motion if that is
necessary.
Mr. Perez: When do we have to vote for the appointment?
Mayor Ferre: Well, I think we have to unfreeze the position
or we are going to lose that man.
Mr. Trablstad: Mr. Mayor, one thing that, I think all of us
were aware of the possible feelings of the Commission on
this, since it was a department, in the past, and has been on
the recommendation of the City audit people to hold it, in at
this time in the Department, of Economic Development, but I
think that we were aware that this would possibly come up
and we looked at this position as either an Assistant
Director, or a Director, and this gentlemen, is a very
strong position and I would suggest that even though yes,
they are related, that, this gentlemen would be able to fill
this position as either a director of an independent
department, or as an assistant director within the
Department, of Economic Development, and I am not sure that
they need to be separated completely.
Mr. Perez: Mayor, I would like to accept in principle the
recommendation, but to include this issue in the next
aregular Commission meeting.
Mayor Ferre: I think you have to separate them.
Mr. Perez: Okay, first, to accept in principle this
recommendation and to recognize the effort of this committee
pending for final decision in the next, regular Commission
meeting.
Mayor Ferre: Well, I think you either have to accept the
unfreezing of this position or not, accept it, and then I
think ... if you want to make the other motion first, I have
no objections to you doing that, as your position, but that,
requires - I think you have to get, a legal opinion on that.
ld 7 November 15, 1984
0
f
Mr. Perez: Before deciding any*.hing, we have to discuss the
freezing of the position also and I think that is for the
next regular Commission meeting.
Mayor Ferre: We have two issues here, Commissioner Perez.
One is, George Grafeld and the position. The other issue is
the issue of whether it, should be a department (T A P E 2)
and whether it should be part of Community Development. We
have to get the legal aspects of that.
Mr. Plummer: I would have to break the one into two. One,
to unfreeze the position, that is first. Second is whether
or not this individual is to fill the unfrozen position.
Mayor Ferre: That is not our choice, J. L. We have nothing
to do with that. Once you unfreeze the position, it is the
Manager's prerogative to appoint whoever the Administration
wants. We have no right to select the individual ...
Mr. Plummer: That is right, I agree.
Mayor Ferre: ... legally, and I frankly would want to be
very careful in not violating the Charter in that sense.
Now, in regards to whether it is a department or not, we
have been through this before. I can remember one time when
I was on the Commission before I was Mayor and we went
through this with the Fire and the Police Department and
whether or not we were going to have a Department of Public
Safety and the Commission dealt with that. We have also
dealt with the issue when the Fire Department absorbed the
Building and Zoning and we had several public hearings as
you remember. Members of the construction industry came
here and protested. We did it anyway. Now, in that
particular case, it was the recommendation of the
Administration that, it be done, and the Commission took a
position. Now, I think since Commissioner Perez has a valid
concern, that we need from the Manager and from the City
Attorney a legal position as to whether or not this
Commission has the authority to establish a Department, or
to separate it, and I think in the past there have been
legal opinions that I would recommend that you look at
before you give this a ...
Mrs. Dougherty: I will be glad to, but I can tell you that
the Charter does permit the City Commission to establish
departments, however, the City Manager has the authority to
make one Department Director a head of two departments.
Mr. Plummer: I think "he key, if in fact that is to be
pursued, the key is budget.
Mayor Ferre: What?
Mr. Plummer: Budget. This Commission at all times retains
control over anyone's budget on a day to day basis, so that
is the key.
Mayor Ferre: Is is a more complex issue than just the
unfreezing of one position, as you can see.
Mr. Gary: Mr. Mayor, right now in terms of the ordinance,
International Trade is still a department.
Mayor Ferre: It is still a department?
Mr. Gary: Exactly.
Mayor Ferre: Well, Mr. Manager, there are four of us here.
I have expressed my position of support to the committee, to
a:r,J
„,-_:r ld 8 November 15, 1984
0 f,
the Administration on the unfreezing of this particular job.
I have also expressed my position in backing Commissioner
Perez in his position that it should report directly to the
Manager and he wants to do it in that sequence, I would be
happy to vote with him as a matter of policy of this
Commission, but you know, that is all this Commission could
do at this time. Commissioner Perez, I think if you wait,
you are going to lose this man.
Mr. Perez: Well, I would like to postpone for the next
Commission meeting, Mr. Mayor, because I think it would be
great if each member of the Commission has the opportunity
to meet with the Executive Director and possibly to have a
report, about persons in the county that have applied for
this position and about, what, are the purposes and the new
policy of this department and to discuss more with the
Administration also about the future of this department. I
think if we have waited two or three months or six months
for this position, I think that we can wait one month more,
and I would like to postpone for the next regular meeting.
Mayor Ferre: All right.
Mr. Perez: Looking at the agenda the future of this
department would be independent department or nave to report,
to the Manager direct, or would be a part of Community
Development,.
Mayor Ferre: The next. Commission meeting is December 12.
Mr. Trablstad, do you feel that ...
Mr. Plummer: That is the Special meeting, Maurice.
Mayor Ferre: The 13th would be the next meeting. Could Mr.
Grafeld wait - could this decision wait, that long?
Mr. Trablstad: I cannot speak for him. I don't, know what
his other options are, or what ...
Mayor Ferre: Has anybody talked to him about this?
Mr. Trablstad: The Manager, I believe was the last one to
speak to him.
Mr. Gary: Mr. Mayor, after the five other individuals
interviewed him, I interviewed him, based on their selection
and he was under the impression that within three weeks we
would get back to him, or let, me put, it, this way - he could
make a decision. We were supposed to get back to him last
week, but, because of the freeze, we basically wanted to wait,
until we got the approval of the Commission on the freeze.
Mayor Ferre: We have a request, from a member of the
Commission that this whole matter be scheduled on the 13th
of December for discussion.
4 Mr. Gary: Mr. Mayor, I will call him and tell him that we
are still interested in him coming into Miami, but, the City
Commission wants further information and we will have to
wait, until that, time.
Mayor Ferre: Any other ...
Mr. Perez: Would it be possible to have that Commission
meeting, before, the background and information on the last.
20 finalists for this position?
Mayor Ferre: I think there were 15 that were finalists.
Mr. Perez: Oh, 15.
ld
9 November 15, 1984
II
I
Mayor Ferre: All right.
Mr. Dawkins: Who was second behind this gentlemen?
Mr. Trablstad: The gentlemen that was second, I cannot
remember his name right now, but he was a distant second.
Mr. Dawkins: Very distant? Okay, thank you.
Mr. Trabls*,ad: Very distant. This gentlemen, Mr. Grafeld
was selected unanimously off paper, and unanimously after
the interviews, so he ...
Mayor Ferre: But, there should have been a second in case he
dropped dead.
Mr. Trablstad: There is a second, although I think that
there was a lot of discussion on it, and I would suggest,
that if we did not select Mr. Grafeld, we reopen the
position.
Mr. Dawkins: Thank you, sir.
Mayor Ferre: All right, any further discussion on the
issue? All right, thank you sir.
------------------------------- -- - — ------------------
4. ESTABLISH DATE OF DECEMBER 20 AS DATE OF PUBLIC HEARING
DISPUTE REGARDING "CHARLIE'S PLACE" (BAR IN COCONUT
GROVE)
------------------------------------------------------------
Mr. Dawkins: Mr. Mayor I have a pocket item. Mrs. Bentley.
Mrs. Helen Bentley: Good Morning, my name is Helen Bentley.
=
I reside at 3621 Franklin Avenue in Coconut Grove. It has
come to our attention that Mr. Charlie C. Jordan and E. C.
Pierce, who co-own Charlie's Place located at 215 Oak
Avenue, and that is in Coral Cables, are initiating plans to
transfer a beer and wine license to the former Jack's bar,
located at, 3368 Douglas Road. We are in opposition to this.
Coconut Grove Homeowner's and Tenant's Association and other
well meaning residents of Coconut Grove feel that, we do not
need, nor do we want another liquor place on that, corner.
You understand also that a Mr. Claude Anderson owns the
former Jack's Bar and I understand that Mr. Jordan and Mr.
Pierce claim that, they have bought a liquor license from Mr.
Mr. Claude Anderson. For too long that corner has been
congested with undesirables that we have had to live with
it. We are determined to be captains of our own ship now.
We are appealing to the Commission to join us and help to
make Coconut Grove the kind of community that they would
want to live in. They have young children crossing that
—
intersection going to and fro from school. We have church
folks; we have other decent folk and we have had to wade
through undesirables for about 10 or 15 years. We no longer
intend to do that. We are appealing to you that, should that,
matter come up, to deny it. If you don't deny us, you are
going to see us down here every time it, appears on your
agenda. That, is not, a promise, that is a threat! Thank
you.
�r
Mr. Dawkins: Mr. Anderson, would you come down, sir? Are
you the owner of the subject property, sir?
Mr. Claude Anderson: Yes, sir, I am.
�:
x
1d 10 November 15, 1984
Mr. Dawkins: Is there a liquor license intended to be moved
to that spot?
Mr. Claude Anderson: No, sir, I am not sure where that,
information was fabricated up from. Let me go back and make
a couple of points very clear here. I think this entire
issue, Commissioner Dawkins, pretty much symbolizes the
major problems we have in the Black community in several
respects. First of all, you have a program in the City - an
office of Economic Development that presently is not
providing any kind services that that community needs
desperately. You don't have a program for renovation. At
the County level they have one, but the City doesn't qualify
for it, so constantly, you have to look at this entire
problem, the economic backdrop of Coconut Grove. You have
got Black business people there that own about 55% of the
property, the commercial property, and about 50% of that is
vacant property, which means those Black people are holding
onto property and trying to service debts and taxes without,
any income springing from it. In addition to that, you have
individuals now that are coming down before you that do not
reflect the will and interests of that entire community.
They are being prompted by a group called G.U.T.S. that only
represents a small faction of the business people in that
community.
Mr. Dawkins: I will tell you what I will do. Mr. Mayor, I
would like to make a motion that, we put this on as a public
hearing and that Mr. Anderson be allowed to bring his people
whom he said is not in accord and that Mrs. Bentley and Mrs.
Alexander bring their group and we can actualiy see who is
what.
{ Mr. Anderson: Okay, Mr. Dawkins, let me make one other
9 point, while I have the podium.
Mayor Ferre: All right, I recognize that as a motion. Is
there a second?
Mr. Plummer: Second the motion.
Mayor Ferre: All right, under discussion, go ahead.
Mr. Anderson: Okay, I have no interest other than the fact
that I am the Lessor of the building. What this individual
has done has committed a lease with me. He has a beer and
wine license that, he wants to transfer over. He has had
j
that beer and wine license for several years. I have
absolutely no interest, above and beyond that, but I think
that you have other rights that must, not be abridged here.
You have rights for tenants, you have rights for businesses,
and the problem is that if you ... I would ideally like to
put. Mayfair and Burdines in the Grove, but if Black folk and
Black citizens cannot have steak I am totally, adamantly
opposed to anybody coming in here and have beans! What
needs to happen, if these individuals are as concerned as
they pretend to be, they should have gone and met, with that
tenant, and got, some policies established with that tenant
and said to that tenant "We will permit you to move in there
if in fact, you will guarantee us several things - that you
will take extra prophylactic measures or precautions to make
sure that no one loiters outside that building, that the
building is kept, in decent and respectable condition" and
that there is no indecent exposing to any other violation of
the City code". Now, that, has not, happened. And further
more, what G.T.U.S. is saying to the people in the community
is that if there is going to be any beer and wine licenses
in that, neighborhood in the Black community, it can only be
in the "Guts" building. I find that grossly insulting and
very partisan and biased. I am not a G.T.U.S. member,
ld 11 November 15, 1984
ku777777
:-
neither are a lot of other property owners in that
community.
Mr. Dawkins: Let me ask you a question. Why is it, that you
want, G.U.T.S. to go to this individual and seek concessions
from him when every.time we have this sort, of developer or
builder confrontation, this Commission usually sends the
developer to the residents. Now, what makes this so unusual
that these residents should go to the investor?
Mr. Anderson: Several reasons, Commissioner Dawkins - first
of all, there is no development in this particular instance.
Mr. Dawkins: Yes, well, investor.
Mr. Anderson: Okay, there is no investor. What, you have
now is a ...
Mr. Dawkins: Well, a businessman.
Mr. Anderson: Okay, what, you have there is a piece of
property that has been rented or leased to an individual,
with the understanding that the individual will meet, the
monthly overhead and he will not do anything illegal on that
premise. My concern is that you have one group that
represents a small contingency of businessmen, Black
property owners in that, neighborhood. There are other
people that I represent also from Black business property
owners in that neighborhood.
Mr. Dawkins: Property owners that you represent have
invested how much?
Mr. Anderson: I don't know, that is the personal business
and I don't have the time to indulge in that.
Mr. Dawkins: Okay, all right. Anybody back there - the
"Guts" organization have invested how much of your own
money? $133,000? All right, so now here you have a group,
sir, that has invested $133,000 of their own money, and now
you are telling me ... but, what we got we have got, here is
a problem that only those ...
Mr. Anderson: A problem situation, right.
Mr. Dawkins: ... in the community can solve, okay? And, as
they said now .. no, I'd better leave that alone - but, I
think it is time for a public hearing. If the Mayor and the
Commission feels that way, then everybody concerned should
come down and voice their opinion and then we will listen
and then we can make a decision.
Mr. Anderson: I am in total agreement with you,
Commissioner. I think in the bottom line if anybody - if
one person cannot put or sell wine and the Black community,
nobody should be able to sell it.
Mr. Dawkins: Hold it! How many beer and wine shops do you
know from where you are talking about, two blocks east -
count them!
Mr. Anderson: I don't know how many are there,
Commissioner.
Mr. Dawkins: Don't say that you know - that we are trying
to keep one out. We keep adding one more!
Mr. Anderson: No, no, what I am saying, Commissioner, is
that it, has been pretty well publicized in the community
that if one goes in, it must go into that property that is
owned by G.T.U.S.
ld 12 November 15, 1984
0 0
Mr. Dawkins: Well, that, won't happen either. Go ahead, Mr.
Rolle.
Mr. Billy Rolle: Billy Rolle, I reside at 3430 Williams
Avenue. I think the question was between the Jack's Bar
opening that Mrs. Bentley had and maybe the Lessor, I don't
remember G.T.U.S. being in, but, as a property owner and a
businessman, I would like to say that everybody needs to be
considered in that area, because I have applied for some
Rehab, and I haven't gotten any consideration yet from the
Community Development department and I hope everybody gets
what they are supposed to get, but I would like to have
everybody considered in that same small block. This is what
I am saying now. I came down here because I heard them
announce it, in church about, the Jack's Bar and about the
beer and wine license. This is my prime reason for being
here. I heard the announcement read in church Sunday
morning and I came down and I know that if you are to pull a
C. 0. for that particular area, you must, abide by whatever
ordinances you have there - footage and other liquor stores
and the whole thing, but this is my primary reason, but
being a businessman there, like you mentioned, I would like
to have it considered and have everybody come in who is
concerned to a public hearing and just have their day in
court, that is all.
Mrs. Esther Mae Armbruster: Good Morning, my name is Esther
Mae Armbruster, and I live at, 3350 Charles Avenue. I don't
know where Mr. Anderson is getting his information, but I
resent anybody who comes down here and says that we don't
have a program going on for the betterment of people in
Coconut Grove. I don't even know where you live - it
doesn't matter.
t
Mr. Anderson: Coconut Grove.
Y
Mrs. Armbruster: It really doesn't, matter. Yes, but
anyway, we do not ...
Mr. Anderson: First of all ... may I make - okay.
Mrs. Armbruster: We really don't, need any more bars in
Coconut Grove. As it is now, the Police Department is not
doing its work, because they pass by men and woman sitting
on the corners drinking beer and wine and they do not even
stop them and on plaza and Grand Avenue beer is being sold.
Children have to pass by there going to Tucker School. We
don't need it! We really don't need it and I pray to God
that you will listen to us and do not allow another bar to
be established in Coconut Grove. Thank you.
Mr. Anderson: Let me respond to that and answer two of your
questions. First of all, I reside in Coconut Grove.
Secondly, I did not imply there was no one in the community
that is actively involved in trying to improve the
community. What I indicated to you was the same thing that.
Mr. Rolle indicated, that we have a City agency that has
been defunct and negligent in its ability to provide those
kinds of necessary public services, and thirdly, I totally
supportive of any effort to appreciate and approve the
properties in Coconut, Grove, so I am not pushing to put this
specific individual into the Grove, or put another license.
What I am saying is a broad right. There are other rights
in Coconut Grove that are not being served by G.U.T.S. or by
the special interest group that, is here this morning. What
I am calling for is that you need to have a broad
comprehensive meeting where all the rights of all the
individuals that reside, work, or own property in Coconut
Grove is there to represent their own interest. That, is hot,
Kt�:r
cyY`k'
ld 13 November 15, 1984
I
i
happening today, and before you have a rush to judgment, I
am going to support, the motion in my own mind that you must
call all those individuals and nobody should have a right to
dictate who should go into what business unless you can also
accept the responsibility of going and finding other
alternative businesses coming into Coconut Grove.
Mrs. Armbruster: Well, I'd just like to mention that we
have a meeting on the first day Monday night. There is a
meeting held at Human Resources Building, Homeowners and
Tenant's Association. On the third Wednesday night, we have
C.A.C.D. meeting and everybody is invited to attend the
meeting and express themselves. Thank you.
Mr. Dawkins: I call the question.
Mayor Ferre: All right., and then the hearing will be on
what day now? Did we establish a day certain?
Mr. Dawkins: No. Should we say the 10th of January?
Mayor Ferre: 10th of January? Will it take you that long?
All right, the 10th of January, then.
(INAUDIBLE BACKGROUND COMMENTS)
Mayor Ferre: 1 can't hear you. Is the 10th of January
acceptable or not?
(INAUDIBLE BACKGROUND COMMENTS)
Mr. Dawkins: December? Okay, they want December.
Mr. Plummer: December 20th, that, is the zoning.
5 Mayor Ferre: December 20th, all right. Any problems with
that?
Mr. Dawkins: No, sir.
Mr. Plummer: I think to be fair we should hold the hearing
on Saturday night, about, 8:00 o'clock in Gills Spot and then
it will be fully understood and realized what needs are
existing.
Mayor Ferre: All right, then let the record reflect it will
be on 20th of December. Do we need to vote on this? What
was the motion?
Mr. Plummer: That we have to hold a hearing.
Mayor Ferre: Call the roll.
The following motion was introduced by
Commissioner Dawkins, who moved its adoption:
MOTION NO. 84-1296
ld
A MOTION ESTABLISHING THE DATE OF
DECEMBER 20, 1984 AS THE DATE OF A
PUBLIC HEARING CONCERNING A DISPUTE
ARISING AMONG VARIOUS GROUPS IN THE
BLACK AREA OF COCONUT GROVE CONCERNING
THE TRANSFER OF A BEER AND WINE LICENSE
TO "CHARLIE'S PLACE" AND INVITING ALL
PROPONENTS AND OBJECTORS TO BE PRESENT
AT THIS PUBLIC HEARING TO EXPRESS THEIR
VIEWS.
14 November 15, 1984
1
I
i
Upon being seconded by Commissioner Plummer, the motion
was passed and adopted by the following vote -
AYES: Commissioner Miller J. Dawkins
Commissioner J. L. Plummer, Jr.
Vice -Mayor Demetrio J. Perez, Jr.
Mayor Maurice A. Ferre
NOES: None.
ABSENT: Commissioner Joe Carollo
ON ROLL CALL: (SEE COMMISSIONER DAWKINS' STATEMENT - NEXT
ITEM)
5. BRIEF DISCUSSION: COMMISSIONER DAWKINS STATEMENT ABOUT
CRIME IN COCONUT GROVE AREA AND POLICE RESPONSE.
------------------------------------------------------------
Mr. Dawkins: I would like to make one statement before I
vote "yes". For those who don'.t know, at 10:00 o'clock
Sunday morning, I was at Douglas and Grand and I called and
j don't say our police are not doing anything. I went to my
car and called and in five minutes I had six police cars
that, stopped the hoods from selling drugs and snatching
people's watches off their bodies and in six minutes they
responded and after I went in the church and came out, they
were still patroling and doing the best that they can. It
is just that, we do not have enough policemen to put one
visibly in that spot, but when I called, they did respond,
and they cleaned it up - I don't know how long it, stayed
clean, but, we do know that we did get some results.
6. ALLOCATE ONE MONTH FUNDING "MIAMI DADE TRADE & TOURISM
COMMISSION" - REFER REQUEST FOR $1509000 TO CITY
MANAGER; COMMEND Mr. H.T. SMITH FOUNDING CHAIRPERSON
FOR HIS EFFORTS.
Mr. Dawkins: Mr. H. T. Smith, sir.
Mr. H. T. Smith: Good Morning, Mr. Commissioner,
Commissioner Perez, Commissioner Carollo, Mayor Ferre. The
Miami Dade Trade and Tourism Commission has passed out its
funding proposal. We hope all of you have had an
opportunity to review it. I am sure that you are aware of
the many activities and the many functions that this fine
organization has been involved in. I am sure you know that
we have Thelma Gibson and Commissioner Helen Miller, Otis
Pitts, George Knox and Newell Daughtry Al Dodson, Charles
White of Eastern Airlines and several other very, very fine
people in this community who have dedicated themselves to
getting full participation in tourism. The main point that
I want, to make today is that all through the years
organizations come to the City Commission asking for funding
and so many times we know for a fact that, there is going to
be no return on the dollars, but that because of moral
commitment or political commitments, or other type reasons
funding is required. We are proud to say that we are
probably the most, cost effective organization that you have
funded. For the last year you have funded us at the rate of
$75,000 and in our package you will see several
organizations that have committed future conventions to
Miami (I am not talking about Dade County now) to the City
ld
15 November 15, 1984
I
of Miami solely because of the efforts of the Miami Dade
Trade and Tourism Commission and that will bring millions of
dollars to the City of Miami. It will increase job
opportunities and will increase the number one industries in
the community. Just on Page 9, in particular, we have
_ outlined the conventions that we have been in instrumental
in bring to this community, so we have put together a
funding package for this fiscal year, which we hope that, you
will approve. Tomorrow hopefully will be my last day. I
sat around and saw that there was nobody I felt that, was
getting the community involved in tourism from our
perspective and I did that and now what we are trying to do
is to bring in people who really know about tourism, who
really can begin to get into the nuts and bolts of things
and I urge you to support this worthwhile project and to
vote to support the funding of the Miami Dade Trade and
Tourism Commission.
Mr. Dawkins: Mr. Gary ...
Mr. Smith: Mr. Mayor, do you have a question?
Mayor Ferre: Yes, I just need to know what the funding
request is.
i
Mr. Smith: $15,000.
Mayor Ferre: How much did we fund this last year?
Mr. Smith: $75,000, on an emergency basis.
Mr. Plummer: I don't think $75,000 was a full year, was it?
Mr. Smith: It wound up not being a full year — nine months,
something like that. Yes, Mr. Commissioner.
Mayor Ferre: What is the Administration's position on this?
Mr. Gary: Mr. Mayor, we support, this, but we have not had
an opportunity to review the document, and come back with our
evaluation in terms of the adequacy of that check.
Mayor Ferre: When would you be ready to do that, Mr.
Manager?
Mr. Gary: Next Commission meeting.
Mayor Ferre: Well, let the record reflect then, Mr. Smith,
that I am in support of this request. I do think it is
important however, that we have the Administration's input,
into the record.
Mr. Smith: We ask that in the meantime, because of our
funding year is over for the City that we be funded at, the
same level ...
Mayor Ferre: As last year.
Mr. Smith: ... until the determination is made. Yes, the
same funding as last year until the matter is brought back.
Mayor Ferre: I have no problem with that, if that meets
with the approval of the Administration.
Mr. Gary: I think we can do them for a month at the same
rate until we come back.
Mayor Ferre: Okay, is there a motion to that effect?
Mr. Plummer: So moved.
ld 16 November 15, 1984
1
i
Mr. Dawkins: Second.
Mayor Ferre: It has been seconded. Further discussion?
Call the roll.
The following motion was introduced by
Commissioner Plummer, who moved its adoption:
MOTION NO. 84-1297
j
A MOTION DIRECTING THE CITY MANAGER TO
ALLOCATE AN AMOUNT SUFFICIENT FOR ONE
MONTH OF ADDITIONAL FUNDING FOR THE
"MIAMI DADE TRADE AND TOURISM
COMMISSION" AT THE SAME LEVEL OF FUNDING
AS FY - 183-84; AND REFERRING THEIR
REQUEST FOR FUNDING IN THE AMOUNT OF
$150,000, AS STATED ON THE PUBLIC RECORD
ON THIS DATE, BACK TO THE CITY MANAGER
FOR HIS REVIEW AND RECOMMENDATION.
Upon being seconded by Commissioner Dawkins, the motion
was passed and adopted by the following vote -
AYES: Commissioner Miller J. Dawkins
Commissioner J. L. Plummer, Jr.
Vice -Mayor Demetrio J. Perez, Jr.
Mayor Maurice A. Ferre
NOES: None.
ABSENT: Commissioner Joe Carollo
Mayor Ferre: Mr. Smith, I think in view of the fact, as you
say, tomorrow is your last day, I think this Commission, and
I am sure I speak for all of us, are very happy that you
took time from your busy life, dedicated to this important
cause. You have been one of the guiding lights, and I think
you certainly deserve the thanks and the recognition of the
City of Miami for having put, this together, and I am sure
somebody here would like to make a motion to that effect.
Mr.. Dawkins: J. L. Plummer moves and I second.
Mayor Ferre: All right, there is a motion and a second -
commendation and recognition of the efforts of the first
chairperson - you were the founding chairperson. Call the
roll on that.
The following motion was introduced by
Commissioner Plummer, who moved its adoption:
MOTION NO. 84-1298
A MOTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION
OFFICIALLY COMMENDING AND THA14KING Mr.
H. T. SMITH, THE FOUNDING CHAIRPERSON OF
THE MIAMI DADE TRADE AND TOURISM
COMMISSION FOR HIS EFFORTS AS
CHAIRPERSON OF THIS SUCCESSFUL
ORGANIZATION.
Upon being seconded by Commissioner Dawkins, the motion
was passed and adopted by the following vote -
AYES: Commissioner Miller J. Dawkins
Commissioner J. L. Plummer, Jr.
Vice -Mayor Demetrio J. Perez, Jr.
Mayor Maurice A. Ferre
ld
17 November 15, 1984
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NOES: None.
ABSENT: Commissioner Joe Carollo
Mayor Ferre: Now, who is the incoming chairman?
Mr. Smith: We will make that decision tomorrow. It hasn't
been decided yet.
Mr. Plummer: There was no decision to be made without
funding!
Mr. Smith: That is correct,!
7. RATIFY ACTION IN ALLOCATION OF $35,000 ALLAPATTAH
MERCHANTS ASSOCIATION - ADMINISTRATIVE TECHNICAL
SUPPORT TO LDC, ALLAPATTAH SHOPPING CENTER, ETC.
------------------------------------------------------------
Mr. Dawkins: Mr. Mayor, as you know, at, our last meeting,
we affirmed desires to have them establish a shopping center
in Allapattah, so I would like to pass a resolution
(COMMISSIONER DAWKINS READS HEREINBELOW RESOLUTION INTO THE
PUBLIC RECORD) This was drawn up by Ms. Gallogly and the
Allapattah Merchants.
Mayor Ferre: All right, is there a second to this motion?
i
Mr. Perez: Second.
3
Mayor Ferre: Further discussion?
Mr. Plummer: Under discussion, I think it is only fair
'
after the discussion that took place before that I think we
should especially note that, what, we are doing is paying for
the study, but as clearly stated, the crux is the County's
;<
ability to acquire 1.2 million dollar grant, from the
Department, of Transportation and Urban Mass Transit
Administration, that if for some reason they are unable to
get that grant., at least. the City went the full nine yards
to try to help and to accommodate and that it is not the
City, nor can it be the City's responsibility for the 1.2.
-X
Mr. Dawkins: I also think, Mr. Mayor, that ill, should be
noted that the Administration through this Commission has
made available $300,000 to acquire that, land, but no one can
come up with it. Would you like to speak to that, Mr. Gary?
Mayor Ferre: All right, Mr. Manager?
Mr. Gary: Yes, Mr. Mayor, you supported this project up to
now. We have done everything they have asked us to. Now
-
you have gone over the call of duty. You allocated $300,000
as our match to UMTA and UDAG and that $300,000 was in place
when you passed the C.D. budget and this right, here will
assist in the study, but, efforts need to be made to get. UMTA
_
problems straight and Al Cardenas said that, he is going to
continue to help in that regard.
Mayor Ferre: Mr. Manager, does this have the
Administration's approval and recommendation?
Mr. Gary: Yes, sir.
Mayor Ferre: All right, is there further discussion on the
motion? Call the roll.
s
ld 18 November 15, 1984
l bk
The following resolution was introduced by Commissioner
Dawkins, who moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 84-1299
A RESOLUTION RATIFYING AND CONFIRMING
THE MOTION ADOPTED BY THE CITY
COMMISSION AT ITS NOVEMBER 8, 1984
MEETING ALLOCATING $35,000 TO THE
ALLAPATTAH MERCHANTS ASSOCIATION, FOR
THE PERIOD FROM, DECEMBER 1, 1984 THROUGH
JUNE 30, 1985 TO PROVIDE ADMINISTRATIVE
AND TECHNICAL SUPPORT TO THE ALLAPATTAH
SHOPPING CENTER; AUTHORIZING THE CITY
MANAGER TO ENTER INTO AN AGREEMENT WITH
THE AFOREMENTIONED AGENCY, IN A FORM
ACCEPTABLE TO THE CITY ATTORNEY.
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here
and on file in the Office of the City Clerk.)
Upon being seconded by Commissioner Perez, the
resolution was passed and adopted by the following vote-
3 AYES: Commissioner Miller J. Dawkins
Commissioner J. L. Plummer, Jr.
Vice -Mayor Demetrio J. Perez, Jr.
Mayor Maurice A. Ferre
s
NOES: None.
ABSENT: Commissioner Joe Carollo
- ------------------------------------------------------------
I
8. RESOLUTION PROVIDING IN -KIND SERVICES & FEE WAIVERS:
MAGIC ILE CULTURAL INDUSTRIAL FAIR ETC. WITH
CONDITIONS; TWO DAY PERMIT TO SELL BEER AND WINE, ETC.
------------------------------------------------------------
Mr. Dawkins: Mr. Mayor, as you know, at the other meeting
# we had some Haitian businessmen who are desirous of trying
to tie in with the CBI in an effort to develop some business
ties. Now, out of all of the CBI money that has come
through here, I personally do not know of any that the
Haitians have been able to get out of it, or either Blacks,
or Puerto Ricans or Wynwood area, or anybody, so we are
hoping that through this trade conference, some sort, of
would be established that would allow this, so all they are
asking is that we waive the police, sanitation and what
other fee did you want, Mr. Ringo?
Mr. Ringo Cayard: My name is Ringo Cayard, 700 N. W. 2nd
Avenue. The Fire Department also, and we need some
lighting - the snowmobile.
': Mr. Dawkins: The snowmobile.
Mayor Ferre: The showmobile is part of the $50.
Mr. Cayard: Yes.
Mayor Ferre: City staff, $1400.
Mr. Cayard: This is a budget that we have put together,
however, it might be less.
Mr. Gary: If I might ...
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Mayor Ferre: Let's put, it into the record. He asked for
Police Department, $14,000; Fire Department, $560;
Sanitation, $1200; insurance, $600.
Mr. Gary: Mr. Mayor, if I might update those figures. The
total is $25,100 of City services. Police is $14,000, Fire
is $5,600, Solid Waste is $3,000, Building and Vehicle
Maintenance, $1,400, Parks and Recreation for showmobile is
$700, so the total is $25,100 and it would be appropriate if
you consider to vote to make a grant to this agency which
obviously would not go to the agency, but a grant to the
agency as opposed to a waiver.
Mayor Ferre: Does this have the Administration's
recommendation?
Mr. Gary: Yes, sir.
Mayor Ferre: All right, is there a motion?
Mr. Dawkins: I move it.
Mr. Mayor Ferre: Is there a second?
Mr. Plummer: Second.
Mayor Ferre: Further discussion? Call the roll.
Mr. Cayard: Due to the delay, I was wondering if it is
possible to have a letter from some offices in order to send
a telex to Haiti saying that, it is possible because the
people over in Hai'.1 at _ .:ui*.inL7.
Mr. Dawkins: I would strongly advise against it, because 1
think one of our Commissioners has a problem anyway, so I
mean I think ... my advice to you would be just to forget
that.
1
Mr. Cayard: Thank you.
ii Mayor Ferre: I think we need to vote now.
l
i The following resolution was introduced by Commissioner
Dawkins, who moved its adoption:
l
s
RESOLUTION NO. 84-1300
i A RESOLUTION PROVIDING THE NECESSARY IN -
KIND SERVICES AND FEE WAIVERS IN
CONVECTION WITH THE MAGIC ILE CULTURAL
INDUSTRIAL FAIR SCHEDULED FOR DECEMBER
8-9, 1984, AT PEACOCK PARK, TO BE
PROVIDED FROM THE OPERATING BUDGETS OF
THE DEPARTMENTS OF POLICE, FIRE, SOLID
WASTE, BUILDING AND VEHICLE MAINTENANCE,
AND PARKS AND RECREATION, AND THE
QUALITY OF LIFE CONTINGENCY FUND; SAID
t ALLOCATION BEING CONDITIONED UPON
SUBSTANTIAL COMPLIANCE OF THE CITY OF
MIAMI ADMINISTRATIVE POLICY 140. APM-1-
84, DATED JANUARY 24, 1984, AND FURTHER
AUTHORIZING TWO (2) DAYS NON-EXCLUSIVE
CONCESSION PRIVILEGES, INCLUDING A TWO
(2) DAY PERMIT TO SELL BEER AND WINE IN
CONNECTION WITH SAID EVENT.
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here
r` 1d 20 November 15, 1984
N
and on file in the Office of the City Clerk.)
Upon being seconded by Commissioner Plummer, the
resolution was passed and adopted by the following vote -
AYES: Commissioner Miller J. Dawkins
Commissioner J. L. Plummer, Jr.
Vice -Mayor Demetrio J. Perez, Jr.
Mayor Maurice A. Ferre
NOES: None.
ABSENT: Commissioner Joe Carollo
Mr. Gary: Mr. Mayor, so there won't, be any problem later,
it is a resolution - we would like for you to read and vote
on the resolution.
Mayor Ferre: "A resolution providing the necessary in -kind
services and fee waivers in conjunction with the Magic Ile
Cultural Fair scheduled for December 8 & 9 at Peacock Park."
Let the record reflect that that has been voted on and Bob,
would you give it to the Clerk. It also has a two day
permit at the very end that says ...
Mr. Gary: Beer and wine.
Mayor Ferre: "Dated January 24th and further authorizing two
days non-exclusive concession privileges, including a two-
day permit to sell beer and wine in connection with said
event." Let the record reflect that, that, is the resolution
we voted on.
Mr. Plummer: Let the record also reflect that is not is an
approval, but that is our waiver to allow it. They still
must get from the State the regular permit.
9. CONDOLENCES TO FAMILY OF DONAL STEWART ON THE SAD
OCCASION OF HIS DEATH.
------------------------------------------------------------
Mr. Plummer: I think it would be appropriate that this
Commission go on record with the appropriate resolution to
the family of Mr. Donal Stewart.
Mayor Ferre: I have it.
Mr. Plummer: Oh, I am sorry.
Mayor Ferre: That is all right, go ahead.
Mr. Plummer: (COMMISSIONER PLUMMER READS INTO RECORD
HEREINBELOW RESOLUTION) Donal Stewart had served this City
for as many years as I can remember, had always been a
gentlemen, and always one who was willing to help and I
think it, is only appropriate that on the passing of his
untimely death that we do express our condolences to the
family and I so move.
Mr. Perez: Second.
Mayor Ferre: Further discussion? Call the roll.
The following resolution was introduced by Commissioner
Plummer, who moved its adoption:
ld 21 November 15, 1984
.,
i
RESOLUTION NO. 84-1301
A RESOLUTION EXPRESSING DEEPEST SYMPATHY
AND SINCEREST CONDOLENCES OF THE CITY
COMMISSION ON BEHALF OF THE CITY OF
MIAMI AND ITS CITIZENS TO THE FAMILY AND
FRIENDS OF DONAL STEWART, UPON HIS
DEATH.
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here
and on file in the Office of the City Clerk.)
Upon being seconded by Commissioner Perez, the
resolution was passed and adopted by the following vote -
AYES: Commissioner J. L. Plummer, Jr.
Vice -Mayor Demetrio J. Perez, Jr.
Mayor Maurice A. Ferre
NOES: None.
ABSENT: Commissioner Joe Carollo
Commissioner Miller J. Dawkins
10. AUTHORIZE AMOUNT - ONE DAY RENTAL FEE LITTLE HAVANA
COMMUNITY CENTER: READINGS BY CUBAN POET DANIEL ROMAN.
Mr. Perez: I have a request, from Mr. Daniel Roman in order
to celebrate a book presentation on December 16t.h at, the
Little Havana Community Center - to reimburse the expense of
that.
Mayor Ferre: How much is the amount?
Mr. Perez: How much is the rent of the Little Havana
Community Center? $150 for one night.
Mayor Ferre: Commissioner Perez moves, is there a second?
Mr. Plummer: Second.
Mayor Ferre: Further discussion? Call the roll.
The following motion was introduced
Commissioner Perez, who moved its adoption:
MOTION NO. 84-1302
A MOTION AUTHORIZING AND DIRECTING THE
CITY MANAGER TO ALLOCATE AN AMOUNT
SUFFICIENT TO WAIVE RENTAL FEE FOR ONE
DAY'S USE OF THE LITTLE HAVANA COMMUNITY
CENTER (150.00) PURSUANT TO REQUEST MADE
BY DANIEL ROMAN, A CUBAN POET, IN
CONNECTION WITH SELECTED READINGS FROM
HIS BOOK OF POEMS.
by
Upon being seconded by Commissioner Plummer, the motion
was passed and adopted by the following vote -
22
November 15, 1984
Id
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AYES: Commissioner Miller J. Dawkins
Commissioner J. L. Plummer, Jr.
Vice -Mayor Demetrio J. Perez, Jr.
Mayor Maurice A. Ferre
y
�Y
NOES: None.
ABSENT: Commissioner Joe Carollo
11. DISCUSSION ITEM: SPECIAL MEETING ON BAYSIDE.
------------------------------------------------------------
Mayor Ferre: We need to have a meeting of November 29th for
the final vote on Bayside and I don't think we have set the
date or the time. There is a memorandum that you have all
received from the Manager. I think there is a mistake on
the date, Mr. Manager. No, I guess that is the correct
date, okay. We have an absent Commissioner.
Mr. Plummer: Yes, sir, I will be as you asked, attending
the National League of Cities.
Mayor Ferre: Anybody else going to be absent? That, is
November 29th. - Thursday, November 29th, two weeks from
today.
Mr. Perez: I will not (INAUDIBLE)
Mayor Ferre: You will not be here 29th of November? Mr.
Manager is requesting a meeting on Bayside on the 29th.
Mr. Plummer: Can I ask what the urgency is?
Mayor Ferre: I think we need to finalize the Bayside
contract and sign it, I guess.
Mr. Plummer: But, is there a reason why it can't hold over
until the 13th?
Mayor Ferre: Mr. Manager?
Mr. Gary: They have to have the agreement to finalize all
the financing so they can take possession December 1st and
remain on schedule.
Mayor Ferre: It has to be finalized that day, you say?
Mr. Gary: Yes, sir, December 1st, is the deadline from them
to remain on schedule.
Mayor Ferre: I don't think it will be a controversial item
and I would imagine, that it is a question of three of us
gathering and passing a motion, but on the other hand, Mr.
Manager out of courtesy to both Commissioner Perez and
Commissioner Plummer, when will the document be available?
Mr. Gary: Mr. Mayor, they are working on it right, now in
Maryland. The complication was because of the parking
garage and the UDAG and that is what caused a lot of delays
in it.
Mayor Ferre: When will it be available. Plummer, when are
you leaving town?
Mr. Plummer: I will be leaving town on the 23rd, the day
after Thanksgiving.
ld
�3 November 15, 1984
1
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Mayor Ferre: Mr. Manager, can this thing be ready by then?
Mr. Gary: I am checking right now.
Mr. Dawkins: Mr. Manager, while you are checking, you tell
them that if I do not have the Affirmative Action package, I
am not voting on it, I am delaying it, because I keep saying
it over and over and I don't get it.
Mayor Ferre: We will take this matter up this afternoon
sometime.
---------------------------------------------- -------------
12. FORMALIZING RESOLUTION: METRO TO STOP USING I.D.B.'S
FOR RELOCATION OF BUSINESS FROM THE CITY OF MIAMI.
------------------------------------------------------------
Mayor Ferre: We now have the question of I.D.B.
resolutions. Lucia, would you explain that?
Mrs. Dougherty: Yes, sir, Mr. Mayor. This is consistent
with your former resolution that was passed some time back.
Yesterday the City Attorney and the representatives from the
City Manager's office, with your letter, went to the Dade
County Industrial Development Authority and asked them to do
several things. One is the to stop soliciting businesses
out of the City of Miami and into unincorporated Dade
County.
Mayor Ferre: You mean in the City of Miami, not, out of. In
the City of Miami - soliciting businesses from the City.
Mrs. Dougherty: Soliciting from the City, existing
businesses - to the Director of Staff not to encourage that
in the future and to make a policy from the County
Commission not to do that, in the future. They passed the A.
J. Kislak resolution yesterday. This is again confirming
your resolve in this matter, directing the City Attorney and
the City Manager to appear at any County Commission meetings
and also Industrial Development meetings and also appearing
in any court cases other than the Kislak and the ones that
had preceded that time.
Mayor Ferre: All right, is there a motion to this effect?
Plummer moves, Dawkins seconds. Further discussion? Call
the roll.
a
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The following resolution was introduced by Commissioner
Plummer, who moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 84-1303
A RESOLUTION OPPOSING THE ISSUANCE OF
INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT BONDS BY
METROPOLITAN DADE COUNTY TO RELOCATE ANY
ESTABLISHED MIAMI BUSINESS FROM THE CITY
OF MIAMI TO UNINCORPORATED DADE COUNTY,
AND AUTHORIZING THE CITY ATTORNEY TO
INITIATE LEGAL ACTION IN AN APPROPRIATE
COURT CHALLENGING THE USE OF THESE BONDS
BY BUSINESSES SEEKING TO RELOCATE TO
AREAS IN UNINCORPORATED DADE COUNTY;
AUTHORIZING AND DIRECTING THE CITY
ATTORNEY AND CITY MANAGER TO OPPOSE THE
ISSUANCE OF THESE AND OTHER LIKE BONDS
BEFORE THE DADE COUNTY INDUSTRIAL
DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY; AND DIRECTING THE
CITY ATTORNEY AND CITY MANAGER TO SEEK
ENACTMENT OF STATE LEGISLATION
PROHIBITING DADE COUNTY OR ANY OTHER
FLORIDA GOVERNMENTAL AGENCY FROM ISSUING
INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT BONDS WHICH WILL
RELOCATE ESTABLISHED MIAMI BUSINESSES TO
UNINCORPORATED DADE COUNTY.
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here
and on file in the Office of the City Clerk.)
Upon being seconded by Commissioner Dawkins, the
resolution was passed and adopted by the following vote -
AYES: Commissioner Miller J. Dawkins
Commissioner J. L. Plummer, Jr.
Vice -Mayor Demetrio J. Perez, Jr.
Mayor Maurice A. Ferre
NOES: None.
ABSENT: Commissioner Joe Carollo
13. DISCUSSION: PROPOSED PROCEDURES TO BE USED CONCERNING
THE REMOVAL OF CITY MANAGER, HOWARD V. GARY.
Mayor Ferre: We have a memorandum here dated November 14th
from the City Attorney regarding the procedures of the
public hearing on the City Manager. This was at, the request
of Jesse McCrary and Mrs. Dougherty has recommended a
procedure. I think it is an important document and I will
call a special Commission meeting this afternoon for the
purposes of voting on it. I would appreciate if you would
have the opportunity to look at it and review it.
Commissioner Carollo said he will be here this afternoon to
vote on this matter. He is sick, but he said he will try to
be here this afternoon.
Mr. Dawkins: Mr. Mayor, I would like to inform you now that
this is a very important document. I have not, seen it. I
do not, intend to attempt, to digest it by this afternoon. I
don't even know if Mr. Gary's counsel has seen fit to
present it, and I will be invoking the rule.
Mayor Ferre: I will inform you that I will be calling a
special Commission meeting, in which time the five day rule
ld 25 November 15, 1984
5e.4µ
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j cannot, be invoked and we will be bringing it up for a vote
this afternoon.
l
Mr. Dawkins: I would like to go on record now by saying
that, as important an issue as this, wherein a Charter has
been in existence ... how long has the Charter been in
existence, Madam City Attorney?
Mrs. Dougherty: I believe since 1962 or 1963.
Mr. Dawkins: 62 and 82 is 20 years, and in 20 years we did
not write a set of rules governing the dismissal of a City
Attorney. I doubt seriously in my mind if we can be fair to
the City of Miami. I doubt, if we can be fair to the City
Manager. I doubt if we can be fair to ourselves if we were
to just take this and say "You have already been fired
because we don't, like the way you part your hair, therefore,
these..."
Mayor Ferre: No, no.
Mr. Dawkins: I can do my thing! I asked for this
privilege, okay.
Mayor Ferre: You have it.
Mr. Dawkins: So now, we will not, under any circumstances,
allow any Commissioner to have any input into the rules by
which that Commissioner will sit, in judgment as to whether
it is correct in form, in substance, or what.. Now, I go on
record as saying the Charter specifically states that, the
only thing required is three affirmative votes to dismiss
the Manager. I am not arguing with that, and don't ever
intend to, but I do have a problem with the way these rules
that were drummed up last night, and are handed to me and I
am told that because you are the Mayor, and you have three
votes, and you are going to take these rules and shove them
down my throat, and don't give me the privilege of having
five days to look at, them knowing*.hat under no
circumstances can I change them, under no circumstances can
I alter them because you have the rules and I think it is
very unfair, and I have to go on record as saying that.
Mayor Ferre: All right, Commissioner, let, me answer that.
First of all, explain that this is not a question of passing
judgment. That judgment has already been rendered. It, was
rendered by three members of this Commission and the vote
was three to two, so it is not a question of judgment. It.
is a question of the provisions of the Charter. The Charter
says that the Manager will have 30 days in which he can
petition for public hearing - not, an appeal, there is no
appeal - not, a jury trial, not a trial, but rather a public
hearing. Now, properly so, the attorney for Mr. Gary has
requested the City Commission to establish rules. Now, this
document - the City Attorney has been working on it. She
concluded it yesterday. She sent it, to Mr. McCrary and we
will be not be meeting again until December and I think it.
is important that we - that at least the majority of this
Commission adopt a proper rule of procedure. This document
has been drafted by the City Attorney. We will have today
to read it and look at it and then this Commission will have
the opportunity to accept, it, reject it, or modify it by the
end of the day and there will be a special Commission
meeting that will be called for that purpose later on in the
day before we adjourn. I will offer a time certain on it.
and I will say that, we will do it sometime between 5:00 and
7:00 o'clock.
Mr. Dawkins: I will read from the Charter: "Removal of
City Manager. The Commission shall appoint by a majority
ld 26 November 15, 1984
7
vote of its members a City Manager for an indefinite term
and may remove him by a majority vote of its members. At
least 30 days before such removal shall become effective,
the Commission shall, by a majority vote of its members,
adopt a preliminary resolution stating the reasons for his
removal. The City Manager may reply in writing and may
request a public hearing, which shall be held not, earlier
than 20 days, nor later than 30 days after the filing of
such request. After such public hearing, if one be
requested, and after full consideration, the Commission, by
a majority vote of its members may adopt a final
resolution." ... My argument there is, this is not full
consideration when you hand me something and tell me that I
must accept, it. Secondly, you have orders of business, and
rules of procedure from the Charter and like you say, it,
goes on, and rules says, Rule 4, under Orders, Business and
Rules of Procedure: "A copy of each resolution, ordinance,
shall be furnished the members of the City Commission five
days before meeting to enable the heads of the departments
affected to prepare necessary and intelligent memoranda,
data or report" ... but then it does go on to say - 9, under
the same section - "Nothing in this section shall prohibit
the Mayor from calling Special Meeting that any time he may
deem proper for the consideration of any business of public
import, and without complying with the provision of this
section" ... so you are completely within your right as
Mayor, but I think you disrespect, me as a Commissioner when
you don't grant me that right.
14. A MOTION OFFICIALLY CONTINUING SEVERAL AGENDA ITEMS
BACK TO PERTINENT BOARDS FOR STUDY, MAKING PROVISIONS
FOR A REVIEW COMMITTEE ON THIS LEGISLATION, ETC.
Mr. Dan Paul: Mr. Mayor, my name is Dan Paul, 100 Biscayne
Boulevard South. At the time of the October 25t.h meeting,
at, which you cancelled the remaining agenda, you stated in
reference to this item that it would be heard after notice
had been given to the property owners involved, and I point
out to you that no notice has been sent, on Item 23 through
28, and it is an extremely important matter and I strongly
urge you to defer that, matter until the property owners
within the area have been notified and know that you are
going to hear it and have an opportunity to be here. That
will also give the opportunity to re-examine that proposal,
because Item 28, which is the design criteria was crafted at
a time when the City was expecting to buy all that property.
There is no money to buy that property now, and that item
needs to be looked at so that. you come up with a feasible
proposal before it comes before the Commission, but I think
it, is only fair when your Honor stated that this agenda was
canceled and that they would receive notice when the
Commission would hear it, again. I am not claiming you had
to legally give them notice, but I think a commitment was
made at that time to the property owners that they would at
least have an opportunity to be here, and I strongly urge
you to defer that until that, notice is given.
Mayor Ferre: All right, Mr. Toledo, I asked you and I asked
my office to go to the Clerk's office yesterday to find out
what the record reflected. I do not remember what was said
and what, was not said on the record at, the time. Legally, I
think the statement was made that these items would be
continued to a date certain, and the date certain was today,
so what is the basis then, for us to defer?
ld
27
November 15, 1984
i
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Mr. Paul: Your statement, Mr. Mayor, that the property
owners would be notified and they haven't been notified. I
am not claiming it is a legal requirement, but it seems to
me in view of the confusion at that meeting and the
statement that was made that the property owners had the
right to rely on the fact that they would receive a notice
of this continued meeting.
Mayor Ferre: Right, was this on the record?
Mr. Ralph Ongie: The statement, on the record simply was
that all matters that were not taken up on that, agenda were
continued to November 15, period, and nothing else was said.
Mayor Ferre: Well then, Mr. Paul ...
Mr. Paul: It may not be on the record, Mr. Mayor, but. I
think everybody who was present, at the meeting ...
Mayor Ferre: Well, I have got to be guided by what is on
the record, Dan and if the record doesn't, say it, then there
is no way that we can deal with it. If the record stated
that, then I think that is a proper ...
Mr. Paul: I think it is very unfair to hear a matter of
this importance without, the property owners having any
notice.
Mayor Ferre: Let, me say to you that first, of all, they had
notice, and the notice was at the hearing when it, was
continued to the 23rd. Secondly, I would point out to you
since you know you go up before the Metro Commission as well
as the City Commission that. this is a first reading and
there will be a second hearing.
Mr. Paul: It, is not a first reading on Item 28, Mr. Mayor,
which is the critical document, which is the design
guidelines governing the entire project. It is the final
action you are planning to take on that matter.
Mayor Ferre: If the record does not reflect the statement,
and I do not frankly remember having made that statement, I
don't see how legally we can defer this. Lucia?
Mrs. Dougherty: There is no requirement that property
owners are given notice at all with these resolutions. I am
sure they were not notified specifically when they came up
the first time.
Mayor Ferre: This item is Item 23 to 28 which will be
coming up in the afternoon.
Mrs. Dougherty: On the other hand, I just heard Walter
Pierce say that, there is really no problem continuing that
i one until the other items are read on second reading, just
that one item.
Mayor Ferre: In other words, we would take 28 and continue
a
28 until the second hearing.
Mrs. Dougherty: But there would be no notification at any
rate.
Mayor Ferre: In other words, we would pass Item 23 through
27 on first reading today, if there is a majority of the
Commission willing to do that.
Mr. Perez: Mr. Mayor, I would like to ask something in
reference to this item. I think we have nine items in this
agenda that will affect the future of this community.
ld 28 November 15, 1984
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f
Personally, I don't think that I have had enough time to
study or to review what is the future of this ordinance.
Personally, I would like ...
Mayor Ferre: Are you talking about Item 23?
Mr. Perez: No, I am talking about 17, 19, 21, 23, 24
through 27 and 28. I think that all of these ordinances
will affect the future of this City and I am receiving
sometimes a lot of calls from people of the City of Miami
that are very surprised about some changes that the
Administration has proposed and we have approved here. They
are not familiar with the issue.
Mayor Ferre: Would you tell me the numbers again?
Mr. Perez: Yes, but. I would like to make a suggestion. I
would like to propose here today to appoint a committee, a
blue ribbon committee, of whatever, of five members in order
that each member of this Commission has the opportunity to
select one member to act in an advisory capacity in order to
give us better advice, to spend enough time and to be
familiar with each one of these ordinances and in order that
at, the time that, we discuss this issue we have the proper
advice and we have the opportunity to have the citizen's
feelings on this matter, because I think it, will affect the
future of this community.
Mayor Ferre: All right, I think you have a valid point. We
do have such a blue ribbon committee. It is not a five
member committee, it. is a nine member committee and it, is
called the Zoning Board and the Planning Board and you have
two appointments.
Mr. Perez:
Yes, but
that is special for
this issue that I
am talking
about. I
know that,, but I am
talking
especially
for this
item.
I think this item
deserves
special
consideration
and
I receiving every
week
different
complaints
of citizens - I know that they
sent a
notice, but,
they don't
have the
proper information.
I don't
think that
we have the
...
Mayor Ferre: What items are you talking about now? Would
you repeat, the numbers? I was unable to get the ...
Mr. Perez: 17, 19, 21, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27 and 28. I think
that Item 12 is a petition.
Mayor Ferre: Item 12 is added to that, list?
Mr. Perez: I don't have any inconvenience to vote on that
one, but I think in that case we have to include for a
future study, because this decision will affect all the
property. I think it is a Grove Isle Club, a travel agency
that they are requesting there, but, they have a similar
request in other parts of the City and I would like that we
have the proper recommendation for the future. We are only
taking the part of the Administration. We don't have any
strong feelings from the citizens. I know what you are
going to mention about, the Zoning Board, but I think that, we
need close information on this issue, and I would like to
propose that, committee in order to have the proper advice
before the next, regular Zoning meeting when we are going to
discuss this issue.
Mayor Ferre: All right, Mr. Perez.
Mr. Perez-Lugones: Mr. Mayor and Commissioners, the items
that, Commissioner Perez mentioned date back, most, of them,
to September of this year. Some of them go back even
ld
29
November 15, 1984
i
longer, because they have been back to Planning Advisory
Board, referred by this Commission and again been brought
back. At least, one of these amendments, which includes a
series of them is the result, of that. Blue Ribbon Committee
discussions over a period months
Mr. Aurelio Perez-Lugones(Con't): by this Commission and
again, being brought, back. At least one of these amendments
which includes a series of them is the result of that Blue
Ribbon Committee discussions over a period of months.
Mayor Ferre: What Blue Ribbon Committee?
Mr. Perez-Lugones: The one that we had at one point
studying 9500 and some of the amendments that resulted.
Mayor Ferre: We had a Blue Ribbon Committee that held
public hearings and came up with these recommendations.
Mr. Gary: Correct.
Mr. Perez-Lugones: That is correct. I was member of that
committee.
Mayor Ferre: Would you send to Commissioner Perez the list
of the members of that, committee? Were there minutes kept
of the meeting?
Mr. Gary: Yes.
Mayor Ferre: Would you send Commissioner Perez a full
review of those copies of those minutes, and how many times
they met, publicly to discuss this item? I think I am a
believer in advisory committees, but, I think we have been
through that process before and I think a member of this
Commission has a right to request, a continuance. Is there
any legal violence done to continuance on this?
Mr. Gary: I can't speak to the legal aspects, Mr. Mayor.
Mayor Ferre: Well, let's get, a legal opinion because we
want to make sure we are not violating any laws here and
because it may be a moot point. Go ahead.
Mrs. Dougherty: You are not violating any laws. You may
run into that, ...
Mayor Ferre: Are we jeopardizing anything by continuing?
Mrs. Dougherty: You might be. I haven't, looked at each one
of these applications. You might be jeopardizing that 90
day rule.
Mr. Plummer: I thought we were removing the 90 day rule.
Mr. Perez-Lugones: It is in here. It, hasn't been acted
upon. Not, only that, there are a number of amendments which
are the ones that, are causing problems with some property
owners included in here, which has been deferred and
continued several times throughout the months. This is one
of the issues that have people complaining about, delays and
matters that, are....
Mr. Perez: Yes, but Mr. Perez, I don't think you are
familiar with what I said the people complained, because at
ld
30
November 15, 1984
I
i
i
several times I have sent to your office people complaining
and you don't, have enough time to pay attention to that one.
We have to pay attention to the people that complain. We
have to pay attention to the property owners' complaints.
Your office I don't think has enough time and I don't think
that it, is proper, for example, yesterday night I was here
about 8:00 o'clock or 7:00 o'clock at night. They had a
Planning meeting for an hour and a half or two hours. I
don't think in two hours they can discuss an agenda of this
dimension and when they are discussing the future of this
community. After, we receive the complaints, and you don't,
have that kind of complaint and you don't have to give them
the answer.
Mr. Perez-Lugones: Let me say this. My office has all the
time in the world to take care of people. What we cannot,
take care is of problems that cannot be solved because
legally they cannot be solved. There is a difference there.
Mr. Perez: But that's the difference, but we are the people
who are supposed to give the explanation to the people of
Miami. If we are not completely familiar with what we are
discussing, I don't think that itts not responsible to both,
in my personal case, to both in an issue that I'm not
completely familiar. I don't think that. I cannot, take the
proper recommendation from the planning board or from the
zoning board. I don't think that this is an issue that, can
be discussed in one hour. Anyhow, that's the motion, Mr.
Mayor, that I want to make to appoint a five members
committee to have the proper advice before the next regular
Commission meeting.
Mayor Ferre: On these items alone or on every item?
Mr. Perez: In this case, on this item and that, committee on
all the items that any member of this Commission in the
future have any doubt.
Mayor Ferre: This is in addition to the planning board and
the zoning board.
Mr. Perez: Yes, that's only a special advisory committee.
Mayor Ferre: For these items, 17, 19, 21, 23, 24, 25, 26,
27, and 28.
Mr. Perez: I don't think it is a permanent board. If we
want, to use again for other items, we can use it, but I
don't think that it is a permanent board.
Mr. Sergio Rodriguez: Commissioner Perez, if I may, in
relation to item 17, item 17 is the result, of that, committee
that you created about one year and a half ago, the zoning
ordinance review committee, made up of property owners and
developers and lawyers, people from the community and they
spent, several months reviewing the zoning ordinance to try
to make sure that, we can make the corrections necessary. In
reality, we have been inundated with complaints, because
this hasn't, been passed for one year and a half. There are
many people that cannot, go ahead with the construction of
their properties because this item hasn't been passed. I am
talking about item 17 specifically.
Mr. Perez: Mr. Rodriguez, this item 17 will change the FAR
and I think that it's very important, I don't, think it would
make too much difference that if we wait one more month,
but I think item 17 is very important, because it has a
strong relation with the FAR and I think it, deserves more
time.
ld
31 November 15, 1984
`'
i
Mayor Ferre: Who are the members of the committee that we
appointed a year and a half ago? Do you have that list?
Mr. Rodriguez: I don't have it here with me, but I can tell
you....
Mayor Ferre: Will you bring it this afternoon?
Mr. Rodriguez: Yes, I will.
Mayor Ferre: So that, I for one, will go along with
Commissioner Perez's request, but, I would be appointing the
same person that I appointed a year a half ago. 1 don't,
think that we need to appoint, any new people.
Mr. Perez: I already make the motion.
Mayor Ferre: The motion is that item 17, 19, 21, 23, 24,
25, 26, 27, 28 be continued until the December 20th meeting
and that, this afternoon we will appoint a five -member panel
that will review these items before that time and recommend
specific positions to the Commission.
Mr. Perez: And that item 12 will be included. I don't want
to continue item 12, but what I want is that item be studied
and this committee maxe a recommendation on this issue.
Mayor Ferre: Include item 12.
Mr. Perez: But item 12 I don't have any inconvenience to
vote today, but what are the consequences of this item? I
would like to have a recommendation also.
Mayor Ferre: I think we have to be careful not to legally
impair the charter of the City of Miami by in any way
interfering with due process with the zoning board. The
zoning board has a legal right to recommend to the
i Commission and I think we must be careful and I would want
some legal advice from the City Attorney to make sure that
what we're doing here in no way impairs the due process of
the rights of citizens that own property and due process.
Mrs. Dougherty: Mr. Mayor, the citizens or the applicants
have the right to apply and have it reviewed by the zoning
board and then to the City Commission. You have now added
another layer or potential other layer that is not a
recognized, legally authoritative....
Mayor Ferre: But, it doesn't do any harm?
5
Mrs. Dougherty: It doesn't do any harm, but we all need to
recognize that it is the recommendation of the zoning board
that counts legally.
Mayor Ferre: We understand that, I just want to make sure
that what we're doing is not creating a serious legal
impediment, that later on would be attacked by a dissident,
zj-
and would carry the day in court. I don't think there is
anything wrong with a member of this Commission or a
majority of this Commission continuing a specific item for
more information, which is I think, what Commissioner Perez
is requesting; that is his right. But I want, to put on the
record if it is so. And if it's not so, I want to put on
the record that, there is no legal impediment, that we're not
creating a legal barrier that later on somebody could
challenge in court, and demolish what we've done here.
Mrs. Dougherty: I don't know of any legal impediment. The
only thing I must, warn you about is that 90-day rule to get
legislatively decided.
j r'-
�. ,, .......,
ld 32 November 15, 1984
0
U,
Mayor Ferre: Are we affected by the 90-day rule now?
Mr. Rodriguez: Yes, you are.
Mrs. Dougherty: Yes.
Mr. Plummer: We're removing it this afternoon.
Mayor Ferre: Is that an ordinance?
Mrs. Dougherty: Is that one of the ones that he's asked for
a continuance?
Mr. Rodriguez: Yes, but, this afternoon the 90-day rule is
second reading. So, if you approve it this afternoon, it
will be in effect 30 days from now.
Mr. Plummer: No, we can do it on an emergency basis.
Mrs. Dougherty: No.
Mr. Rodriguez: No, because it's zoning.
Mayor Ferre: Not, zoning, so the question is, if we vote on
this matter removing the 90-day rule this afternoon, the law
goes into effect 30 days from today. By continuing this to
December 20th, have we in effect, jeopardized the legal
standing of all these ordinances?
Mrs. Dougherty: I don't know how many days they've....
Mayor Ferre: Well, it won't be 30 days.
Mr. Rodriguez: I think we have 35 days on item 17 and 18.
Mayor Ferre: I'm sorry, it, will be because today is the
15th and we're talking about December 20th.
Mrs. Dougherty: So we should be O.K.
Mayor Ferre: So we should be legally O.K. If we pass the
ordinance this afternoon the law is in effect in 30 days;
the 20th is beyond that, so there should be no legal
impairment as I understood the City Attorney. So what
Commissioner Perez is recommending is both within his rights
and does not in any way do any legal damage to anything
we're trying to do here. Is that correct.?
Mrs. Dougherty: That's correct.
Mayor Ferre: Commissioner Perez has made a motion, which
I've recognized that item 17, 19, 21, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27,
and 28 be continued to the December 20th zoning meeting and
that in the meantime this afternoon, we will appoint, he
wants, a five -member committee to review all of these things
and advise him, in particular and the Commission on these
matters. We did have a committee, which we appointed a year
and a half ago, the administration is going to give us the
list of who is in that committee. I know that, Bob Traurig,
and I saw Mr. Traurig. I remember Alberto Cardenas was on
that committee. You were on that committee. Dan, I think
you were on that committee, weren't you?
Mr. Rodriguez: There were about 40 members. Janet
Cooper....
Mayor Ferre: Janet Cooper was on that, committee.
Mr. Rodriguez: Dan Paul.
sl 33 November 15, 1984
0 Ok
INAUDIBLE BACKGROUND COMMENTS NOT ENTERED INTO THE PUBLIC
RECORD.
Mr. Rodriguez: I was referring to item number 18 only, 17
only.
Mrs. Dougherty: Mr. Mayor, I just read the ordinance that
we're considering this afternoon on second reading that,
would repeal that 90 days and it doesn't do that. What it
does is it tolls the time if you sent it back to the
planning board or the zoning board. So, you might be
running out these applications and they would have to go
back to the planning board or the zoning board for
consideration again. They'd have to start the whole process
again, unless you refer it also to the planning or the
zoning board.
Mayor Ferre: So, in other words, Commissioner, what I think
the City Attorney is telling you, telling us, is that you
have to defer it, back to the planning....
Mrs. Dougherty: Whichever board it came from, the zoning
board or the planning board.
Mayor Ferre: ....for further review and then....
Mrs. Dougherty: As well as your committee.
Mayor Ferre: ....so that, it. can be brought back to the
commission on December 20th. Is that correct?
Mrs. Dougherty: Yes.
Mayor Ferre: Would you amend your motion to include that so
we can be within the law?
Mr. Perez: Yes, but it's not, possible that we appoint...?
Mayor Ferre: Yes.
Mr. Perez: Anyhow, it would have to ... O.K.
Mayor Ferre: So, in other words, you are amending your
motion. Let, me understand your motion. Your motion is that
the numbers that, I've read be deferred to the December 20th
zoning meeting; that in the interim that these matters be
referred back to the respective zoning and planning board,
depending on the item for further review, and that this
afternoon we will appoint a five -member committee that will
advise the Commission on these items before we vote on them
on the 20th of December. Is that correct? Is there a
second?
Mr. Plummer: Second.
Mayor Ferre: Further discussion? Call the roll.
sl
34 November 15, 1984
0
The following motion was introduced
Commissioner Perez, who moved its adoption:
MOTION NO. 84-1304
A MOTION TO OFFICIALLY CONTINUE AGENDA
ITEMS NOS. 17, 19, 21, 23, 24, 25, 26,
27, AND 28 TO THE CITY COMMISSION
MEETING PRESENTLY SCHEDULED FOR DECEMBER
20, 1984; AND MAKING PROVISIONS FOR THE
APPOINTMENT OF A FIVE -MEMBER PANEL TO
SPECIFICALLY REVIEW THESE PROPOSED
ORDINANCES FOR RECOMMENDATION TO THE
CITY COMMISSION BEFORE THE MEETING OF
DECEMBER 20, 1984; FURTHER REFERRING
THESE ITEMS BACK TO THEIR PERTINENT
BOARDS FOR FURTHER STUDY.
by
Upon being seconded by Commissioner Plummer, the motion
was passed and adopted by the following vote -
AYES: Commissioner Miller J. Dawkins
Commissioner J. L. Plummer, Jr.
Vice -Mayor Demetrio J. Perez, Jr.
Mayor Maurice A. Ferre
NOES: None.
ABSENT: Commissioner Joe Carollo
------------------------------------------------------------
NOTE FOR THE RECORD: Agenda items 31, and 34 were continued.
------------------------------------------------------------
------------------------------------------------------------
15. SECOND READING ORDINANCE: CHANGE ZONING CLASSIFICATION
3400-3490 S. DIXIE HIGHWAY & 3640 BIRD AVENUE FROM RO-
2.1/5 A RG-2.1/3.3 TO CH-2/5.
i
------------------------------------------------------------
Mayor Ferre: We're now on item number 1.
Mr. Whipple: This is the second reading, Mr. Mayor. You
passed it on first reading at the last meeting. You may
remember we concurred with the suggestions of the applicant
and the restrictions that, they are voluntarily placing
themselves into and therefore went along and recommended the
change as modified.
Mayor Ferre: Are there any objectors to item number 1 here
or any other speakers? Is there a motion? Moved by
Dawkins. Is there a second?
Mr. Perez: Second.
Mayor Ferre: Second by Perez. Further discussion? Read
the ordinance. Is there further discussion?
s
Mr. Plummer: Mr. Mayor, it is a public hearing. Is there
anyone wishing to speak?
Mayor Ferre: I've already asked that.
Mr. Plummer: I'm sorry. Seeing no one coming forward, I'll
move it.
2
s
sl 35 November 15, 1984
a
_-
i
Mayor Ferre: It's been moved and seconded. There is no
need to move it. I've already asked if there were any
objectors or people who wished to speak on this item. The
record reflects that there are none. We are now ready to
vote. It's been read, moved, seconded. We're on item
number 1. Call the roll.
AN ORDINANCE ENTITLED -
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE ZONING ATLAS
OF ORDINANCE NO. 9500, THE ZONING
ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF MIAMI, FLORIDA,
BY CHANGING THE ZONING CLASSIFICATION OF
APPROXIMATELY 3400-3490 SOUTH DIXIE
HIGHWAY, MIAMI, FLORIDA, FROM RO-2.1/5
RESIDENTIAL -OFFICE AND RG-2.1/3.3
GENERAL RESIDENTIAL TO CR-2/5 COMMERCIAL
RESIDENTIAL BY MAKING FINDINGS; AND BY
MAKING ALL THE NECESSARY CHANGES ON PAGE
NO. 42 OF SAID ZONING ATLAS MADE A PART
OF ORDINANCE NO. 9500 BY REFERENCE AND
DESCRIPTION IN ARTICLE 3, SECTION 300,
THEREOF; CONTAINING A REPEALER PROVISION
AND A SEVERABILITY CLAUSE.
passed on its first reading by title at the meeting of
October 25, 1984, was taken up for its second and final
reading by title and adoption. On motion of Commissioner
Dawkins, seconded by Commissioner Perez, the Ordinance was
thereupon given its second and final reading by title and
passed and adopted by the following vote -
AYES: Commissioner Miller J. Dawkins
Commissioner J. L. Plummer, Jr.
Vice -Mayor Demetrio J. Perez, Jr.
Mayor Maurice A. Ferre
NOES: None.
ABSENT: Commissioner Joe Carollo
THE ORDINANCE WAS DESIGNATED ORDINANCE NO, 9933
The City Attorney read the ordinance into the public
record and announced that copies were available to the
members of the City Commission and to the public.
-------------------------------------------------------------
16. SECOND READING ORDINANCE: CHANGE ZONING CLASSIFICATION
2531 S.W. 37 AVENUE FROM CR-2/7 TO CR-2/8
Mayor Ferre: We're now on item number 2.
' Mr. Whipple: Mr. Mayor, this also is second reading. You
might remember from the last meeting, the Planning
Department, strenuously objected to this change. We'd still
a like that objection noted. We feel that, it's improper
change of zoning. It's improper intensity and coupled with
the variances that they were previously granted, this is....
Mayor Ferre: Do you want to put that up on the map, please?
Mr. Whipple: We believe it was no hardship for the
variances, but all you are considering here today is
increase in intensity and as you see, all the surrounding
sl 36 November 15, 1984
br .
3 � �
I
i
area is of an intensity seven. We recommend denial of the
CR-2/8.
Mayor Ferre: Does anybody here wish to speak to this issue?
Mr. Robert H. Traurig: Yes, sir, my name is Robert H.
Traurig. I'm an attorney with offices at 1401 Brickell
Avenue. I'm here representing Mr. Manuel D. Medina and
I.R.E. Real Estate Fund. This matter was fully presented,
if you will recall, at Robert E. Lee Junior High School. I
think all of the issues are understood by this Commission.
To revisit all of those issues, I don't think would have any
special significance to this Commission. Unless the
Commission has some questions of us, we rest on the
testimony that, was previously proffered.
Mayor Ferre: Is there anybody else who wishes to speak at
this public hearing on item number 2? Let the record
reflect that nobody else came forward. Is there a motion on
item number 2?
Mr. Plummer: Move it.
Mr. Perez: Second.
Mayor Ferre: Moved by Plummer; seconded by Perez. Further
discussion? Read the ordinance.
AN ORDINANCE ENTITLED -
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE ZONING ATLAS
OF ORDINANCE NO. 955, THE ZONING
ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF MIAMI, FLORIDA,
BY CHANGING THE ZONING CLASSIFICATION OF
APPROXIMATELY 2351 SOUTHWEST 37TH
AVENUE, FLORIDA, (MORE PARTICULARLY
DESCRIBED HEREIN) FROM CR-2/7
COMMERCIAL -RESIDENTIAL TO CR-2/8
COMMERCIAL -RESIDENTIAL BY MAKING
FINDINGS; AND BY MAKING ALL THE
NECESSARY CHANGES ON PAGE NO. 42 OF SAID
ZONING ATLAS MADE A PART OF ORDINANCE
NO. 9500 BY REFERENCE AND DESCRIPTION IN
ARTICLE 3, SECTION 300, THEREOF;
CONTAINI14G A REPEALER PROVISION AND A
SEVERABILITY CLAUSE.
passed on its first, reading by title at the meeting of
October 25, 11984, was taken up for its second and final
reading by title and adoption. On motion of Commissioner
Plummer, seconded by Commissioner Perez, the Ordinance was
thereupon given its second and final reading by title and
passed and adopted by the following vote -
AYES: Commissioner Miller J. Dawkins
Commissioner J. L. Plummer, Jr.
Vice -Mayor Demetrio J. Perez, Jr.
Mayor Maurice A. Ferre
NOES: None.
ABSENT: Commissioner Joe Carollo
THE ORDINANCE WAS DESIGNATED ORDINANCE N0, 9934
The City Attorney read the ordinance into the public
record and announced that copies were available to the
members of the City Commission and to the public.
sl 37 November 15, 1984
i
1
------------------------------------------------------------
17. DISCUSSION AND TEMPORARY DEFERRAL: PETITION FOR CHANGE
OF ZONING AREA S.M. 32 AVE., OAK AVE., W. BOUNDARY KIRK
MONROE PARK ETC.
------------------------------------------------------------
Mayor Ferre: We're now on item number 3 on second hearing.
Mr. Whipple: Mr. Mayor, members of the Commission, this is
a change of zoning initiated by the Planning Department
including several properties. Request, for a change of
zoning from its present RS-2/2 to RG-1/3. To our knowledge,
we have the concurrence of the property owners. I believe
Mr. Antoniadis is here to verify that information and he
will be able to answer other questions. We believe this
change of zoning is appropriate in light of the development
that exists in the area and its location in relationship to
other properties in the central Grove.
Mayor Ferre: Are there any opponents to this present...
We'll hear first from the... Let's see, this comes to us...
This is second reading. Is that, correct?
Ms. Holzhauser: It escaped us in the heat of the moment
that it was read that time, sir, or we would have been
objecting then.
Mayor Ferre: This is on second reading.
Ms. Holtzhauser: Yes, it is, but that's why we didn't.
speak.
Mayor Ferre: It, came from the zoning board. Is that, right?
What was the vote on the zoning board on item 3? I'm asking
for the legislative history.
Mr. Sergio Rodriguez: Yes, sir, I have to review the file,
because we don't carry this into second readings.
Mayor Ferre: The Planning Department recommended approval.
Is that correct?
Mr. Perez-Lugones: They recommended approval. That is
correct.
Mayor Ferre: Let, me, for instance, so you'll know, it's in
your file. I just, wanted you to read it into the file.
Would you like my copy of it? The Planning Advisory Board
on September 5th this year made a motion, which failed on a
4 to 2 vote; therefore constituting a recommendation of
denial.
Mr. Perez-Lugones: That is correct, Mr. Mayor.
Mayor Ferre: I just wanted to put that, into the record. It
was then voted on by this Commission favorably on a 4 to 0
vote on October 25th. This is the second hearing. So we
will now hear from the applicant.
Mr. Perez-Lugones: The applicant, is the Planning
Department..
Mayor Ferre: Since we have the neighbors that are opposed,
I think you need to explain it a little bit, more detailed,
before we vote on it.
Ms. Holtzhauser: That's not, what
applicant.. The applicant, lists Mr.
four other people as the applicant.
sl
In
the agenda lists as the
Yiannis Antoniadis and
November 15, 1984
! 0 0
Mayor Ferre: That's what I read too. It, says Derek Povey,
Robert Malinski, Yiannis Antoniadis.
Mr. Plummer: They are the owners, Maurice. The applicant
is the Planning Department.
Mayor Ferre: The Planning Department, I'm sorry.
Ms. Holtzhauser: It, was instigated by the Planning
Department, but the applicants are listed as those
individuals.
Mayor Ferre: The applicant, is listed as the Planning
Department, so let the Planning Department speak to the
issue.
Mr. Rodriguez: Mr. Antoniadis came to our office saying
that, he would like to change the zoning in that area. We
felt, that the recommendation for a zoning change was
justified. He came also and told us that there was full
support by the members of...by the people affected by the
_
zoning and that the application or the request for zoning
was supported by all affected by it. At the first hearing,
if you remember, when we talked about this at the first
hearing, I mentioned to you that we hadn't received the
letters from the people in the area supporting the
application. Mr. Antoniadis told me that he was going to
get those letters in support, of the application today. I
believe he has some letters in support of the application.
Mayor Ferre: Anything else that the department wants to
=
say?
Mr. Plummer: No, I want, to see the letters.
;-
Mayor Ferre: We're going to get the letters, all right.
Mr. Yiannis Antoniadis: Mr. Mayor, Mr. Commissioners, my
name is Yiannis Antoniadis. I reside at 3326 Mary Street in
Coconut Grove and I'm one of the parties affected by this
change in zoning. I have a letter here by Mr. Purifoy who
reads:
"Area bounded by approximately S.W. 32 Avenue and
the west boundary of Kirk Munroe Park, and the
rear lot line of properties fronting on the south
side of Oak Avenue. We the undersigned hereby
withdraw our objection to the zoning change of the
above property and we would like too lend our
support, in favor of the re -zoning. Yours truly,
John Purifoy and Dianne Purifoy."
As well as we have on file a lengthy petition signed by I
would guess 20 or 30 people of the immediate surrounding
area, people who are affected by this.
Mr. Plummer: The letter you just read, which property does
he own?
Mr. Antoniadis: The immediate behind the red or the lower
part. The red above it is represented by two gentlemen that
own those rental properties; they own all of those
properties. They have not been to any of these meetings to
represent themselves on their objection. I have spoken to
them and their objection has been that there is not adequate
off-street, parking. That is their only objection. They
don't object to the change in the zoning, but they object to
the parking and there is evidence of that in the file or
their card; they do specify their specific item.
Mayor Ferre: Yes, I would like to see it.
r
�4{�f
sl 39 November 15 1984
014 Oh
Mr. Plummer: Let me ask the Planning Department, why you
didn't, go back two additional lots in your recommendation to
go right, to the park. It, would seem like to me the park
would be a natural barrier.
Mr. Rodriguez: That, property is now in use by the park,
those two tots over there.
Mr. Plummer: Are now park property?
Mr. Rodriguez: Yes.
Mr. Plummer: Oh, O.K.
Mr. Rodriguez: You understand that the issue is that the
property owner didn't have enough land to make an
application. On the northern side of Oak is the same zoning
that we're recommending for this area. We were led to
believe that there was full support for this application.
It was a good thing to do because it would conform with the
rest of the area, with the northern part of the street.
There will be two sides of the street, having the same type
of zoning. Based on all those factors, we decided to
initiate the application ourselves. The only change that
has been since we started the application is that what we
felt, was full support by all the people affected by it is
not, there.
Mr. Plummer: Are you withdrawing your recommendation?
Mr. Rodriguez: I think on the Planning basis, the
recommendation was correct. I wish we had all the support
by all the people affected by it. But, from a planning point
of view having the same zoning affecting both sides of the
z.
street makes sense.
Mr. Plummer: Are you prepared to go additionally in the RS-
212 to the higher zoning?
_
y
Mr. Rodriguez: No.
Mr. Plummer: How would you justify not doing it?
Mr. Rodriguez: Because we believe in this area, in the area
that we're marking the subject area, there have been already
some changes in the structures that have been ,
besides the street is much smaller. We're dealing, if we
were to make a change in McDonald, that might have an effect,
all the way through affecting many other properties.
Mayor Ferre: Sure, that's the point; how about lots 13, 14,
and 15?
Mr. Rodriguez: When we initially started the application,
we included those lots and there was a tremendous amount of
objections from those properties. They felt that they
wanted to remain single-family and then they were afraid
�~
also of the implications on the other side of the street, in
Florida that, also didn't, want to change to anything other
than single family.
Mayor Ferre: What, is RG-1/3?
Mr. Rodriguez: It's single-family and duplex. The issue
here is duplex.
Mayor Ferre. So, in other words, it would go from single-
family to duplex. All right.
sl 40 November 15, 1984
1
Mr. Antoniadis: Mr. Mayor, I'd like to point out that what
is happening here is in fact the places are duplexes
already. Out of the three properties that I personally own,
two of them are duplexes I had built back in the 30's or
whatever it, is and in fact we are maintaining the status quo
in essence by making this into an R-2. The neighbors behind
me who are actually abutting to the properties to the rear
of Grand Avenue are going to try to re -zone this particular
area because they are going to be faced with a high
intensity development that's going to occur on Grand Avenue
and is in planning at present. They would like to get a
higher density, which makes it natural for them to request
such a change in zoning. It would create additional living
space who do not own a car, who are in such close proximity
to the center of the town and everything is within a walking
distance. The area has become depressed for some time now,
particularly on Oak Avenue and would have a high traffic
flow of over 500 cars per day and no longer lends itself to
a single-family residences, such as west of McDonald where
the entire area is a residential one. McDonald Street is
the dividing line regarding character, regarding density,
regarding many factors. I do have the support, and it, is in
file, of a lengthy petition of neighbors affected in the
immediate area that the circle describes. Perhaps there
will be some people who object., but none of them who live in
this particular area.
Mayor Ferre: We will listen now to the neighbors who wish
to speak on the issue.
Mrs. Joanne Holzhouser: I'm Joanne Holzhouser, 4230
Ingraham Highway, and I'm president of the Coconut. Grove
Civic Club. I'd like to be sworn. Is that possible?
Mayor Ferre: If you
unless somebody else
have an objection?
insist, I have no problems with that,
has an objection to it. Does anybody
Mr. Plummer: Do we get to swear at her?
Mayor Ferre: Have her sworn in.
Mr. Ralph Ongie: Do you swear that the evidence you are
about to give is the truth, so help you God?
Mrs. Holzhouser: I do. First I'd like to read a letter,
which I was asked to read today, Janis E. Pepino, 3285
McDonald Street, and her mother has written a paragraph at
the end, Roberta Pepino, same address:
"Dear Sirs, I'm a 16 year old resident, of Coconut
Grove, truly my home town, since I have lived here
from the day I was brought home from the hospital.
Even in my young years, I have seen a drastic
change in the Coconut Grove community. This once
quiet residential area has turned into a busy,
over -crowded thoroughfare for much of the traffic
avoiding the rush hour jam on US-1. I once
enjoyed the solitude of my surroundings, the basic
spaciousness of the community, and the freedom it
allowed. Now when I go to take a ride in my
j bicycle on these beautiful fall afternoons, my
l mother cautions me with good reason to be careful
of the speeding cars and the congested
' construction sites where mammoth concrete sardines
are being squeezed into the last, possible inch of
{ space. The once peaceful, easy-going atmosphere
that, symbolized the village life of the Grove is
being destroyed by the influx of apartment
sl
41 November 15, 1984
0 P
dwellers and fancy shops that, cater to a non -Grove
clientele; not to mention what a law that allows
multiple -family dwellings in what was once a
single-family dwelling space will do to increase
the already troublesome crime problem. There does
seem to be a correlation between crime and density
of population. Though I feel that, growth of the
right kind and in the right place in our fair City
is important, I do not want it to jeopardize the
Coconut Grove community as a whole. We, the
residents, of a good, somewhat safe, basically
single-family area urge you to consider our point
of view. Keep our community safe and less crowded
and even more beautiful for the future of Miami as
a whole."
The mother adds:
"I would only add to what my daughter has so
emphatically expressed by saying I concur with her
sentiments wholeheartedly. I presented my view to
one of the principals who was attempting to get
the zoning change, when he came to my door a few
months ago seeking my signature on the petition to
get the issue before you. I absolutely abhor the
idea of creating more congestion, business and
concrete monsters that hide behind sleek facades
of superficial growth and plastic beauty, the ugly
decline of a quality of life in the Grove. I
implore you, Mr. Mayor and Commissioners, look
beyond the surface of this upbeat Grove and see
who the true benefactors of it are, certainly not
the family residents, but the investors whose main
interest is seeing a return on their investments."
That, puts it so beautifully. I think it puts a point. there
Mr. Antoniadis talks about some deterioration of the
neighborhood. The people who live in that neighborhood are
living in one of the most, successfully integrated in every
way, neighborhoods in Dade County, Florida. It's a
neighborhood that, all of us should be proud of, that all of
us should be helping. Coconut Grove Elementary School
voluntarily integrated before any integration artist came
down. I believe it was the first in Dade County to do so.
The people who live from Grand Avenue to South Dixie and
from Douglas Road to Mary Street ought to be commended
because they've found out how to live together peacefully
and quietly and nicely. I think this is a frontal attack on
the dignity of this neighborhood. We all know what Mr.
Antoniadis just said for us. Yes, we know the crush is
there, the push is on for the developers to move in to every
residential area in Coconut Grove, and it's quite true, I do
not, live in that neighborhood. I live in South Coconut.
Grove, which will eventually be attacked. But I do care
about what happens in the other neighborhoods and I will
fight as long as people in any neighborhood in the Grove as
me personally and/or the Coconut Grove Civic Club to stand
with them, as they have, on this issue. I would like to
bring one thing up, and this is why I asked to be sworn. I
was told by Mr. Antoniadis, at the time of the...I believe
September 5th meeting, that this request, did not come from
him, that, Mr. Luft had suggested it, to him that he needed
this change in order to regularize or some such word, the
zoning atlas or the patterns, or something. This was
explained at length. I don't see this appearing on the
press, the packet. I didn't hear this. It, did not,
originate, I was told from the developer, it originated from
the department. I wish the department would spend more time
planning with us and less time with this paternalistic
authoritarian, we -know-it-all idea that they have to plan
for all the people of Coconut Grove. Most, of us can do our
own planning and if we didn't have to fight, all the time, we
could do more things. But I think that it's outrageous that
sl 42 November 15, 1984
._ t
0
has not, been mentioned today. I was told that, by Mr.
Antoniadis in a conversation. I'm not sure that it's a part
of the public record from September 5th, but, if that is
true, then I think it should come out, today. If it's not
true, then either I misunderstood Mr. Antoniadis or
something. But, that was my information; it is coming from
Mr. Luft. I don't believe those properties have gone down
in value. There are plenty of people who live along there
who are very happy, but I think that changing this is going
to put Florida Avenue in a squeeze, so that, whomever owns
that property on Grand Avenue, the Grand Avenue property
will then come to you and say, "Gee, we have the back tots
there, so we have to go there." Then we have to come down
from Oak and the ones that, face on Oak... It's what I call
the doubling of the Grove, only it's not doubling anymore.
You are eating us alive and we really want to keep Coconut,
Grove. Again, I've heard the Mayor say this before, when
we've argued things. We're not always on the same side, but,
I've heard him say it about other things, "You are going to
kill the goose that lays the golden egg." If you make
Coconut Grove into another plastic community, nobody is
going to want to be here. But, we're going to fight it every
step of the way. Yes, if it takes coming out of our
neighborhoods, we'll be there. We don't. have to be so
parochial that we say, unless it's happening next door to
me, I don't care. I do care about what happens in all of
Coconut. Grove.
Mayor Ferre: All right, yes, ma'am.
Mrs. Marilyn Reed: My name is Marilyn Reed. I'm co-
chairman of the Central Grove Home Owners Group. We are
objecting to this at this time. I want to explain why. To
us this is spot zoning at this time. To us, and I brought
this up to the zoning board and I think this had a lot to do
with their decision. I want you to ... I'm going to repeat to
you what I told them. We have a major problem over there in
that area. My property is at the corner at Day and
McDonald. Since 1977, through your Public Work's
Department, I have been requesting signs and they couldn't
do anything about signs because Metro wouldn't, do anything
about it. What we need in there is to stop this horrendous
traffic that, goes day and night. I am talking about
purveyor trucks; I am talking about, construction trucks.
This is a residential area. At my corner, and I checked it
through the computer, I have had five vehicular homicides.
I average 67 wrecks a year. Our property damage is
phenomenal. On Oak, it's the same thing. I have been run
off Oak by purveyor's trucks on to the grassy strip. People
have been hit over there; I don't have the figures there.
Since the Public Works Department couldn't get Metro to do
anything last, year, I went to J.L. Plummer's office and in
sheer desperation asked him to help me. He did write a
letter to Metro; he did request the signage we needed. We
can't get police enforcement to stop this horrendous
problem, unless we have the signage. He got a letter back
from Charlie Baldwin refusing. This is the service we get.
from Metro. I don't want any more people killed over there.
I want a traffic program set up. I want some help on this
and at that time, then Mr. Antoniadis can come back for his
zoning, and at that time, I may support it. Right now I
think it, is premature and it's jumping ahead of the priority
issue we have in this neighborhood. I want you to know our
property is being ruined from this traffic. I've talked to
all my neighbors. The black filth that comes from this
traffic is accumulating inside of our houses; it's affecting
our health. It, just goes on and on, it's accumulative
effect. matter. But I am talking about people's lives and
nothing has been done. I thank J.L. for trying to help us,
but you can't do anything with Metro when they refuse. I
sl
43 November 15, 1984
i
+ can't get police over there to stop the speeders 90 miles an
hour day and night, wrecks all the time. I can't get, the
police to do anything when we don't have the signs for them
to enforce it. What I would ask you to do is not allow this
zoning today and Mr. Antoniadis can come back at a later
date after the traffic is settled. I would ask you please
to do that.
Mayor Ferre: Next.
Mrs. Esther May Armbruster: My name is Esther May
Armbruster. I live at 3350 Charles Avenue. I was down here
on the night of the zoning board when this first came up.
_
At that particular time, the members of the zoning board
rejected the idea of your changing it. Now suddenly, here
it, is again. I think this is about the third time that this
same item has come up on the agenda. In the meantime, I
also had a list of petitioners and those people who sign it
don't, even live in that particular area. I don't know
whether you checked it or not, but if you would look on that
list that you were given, the signatures of the petitioners,
they do not live in that particular area. As far as we are
concerned here in Coconut, Grove, once you begin to change on
Oak Avenue, you are going to come on down and do a wipe out.
That's what you are planning to do. Any technicality you
can use, this is what you are allowing people to do.
Somewhere along the line, you need to stop it. Somebody
needs to stop these developers coming in here and getting
richer and making more of a slum area and more people are
jammed in. This is what you're doing. You are allowing
this to happen to Coconut, Grove. I imagine the same thing
you also intend to do to Charles Avenue, the same thing; you
are buying up, buying up, buying up. Eventually, nobody
will be here except those people who can afford the high
rent. We don't intend to be moved out. I think we've been
quiet, and nice in Coconut Grove. We haven't had any trouble
yet, but you know, you can push a person so far and then you
have to stop, they refuse to be pushed any further. So for
you two to change this zoning for somebody else's benefit; I
-°
really don't, get it,, because if he wants a change, he does
not like the idea of one side being one thing and one
i
another, then he is to change to the existing side of the
residents. Thank you.
Mayor Ferre: Yes, ma'am.
�:.
Ms. Monty Steele: My name is Monty Steele. I've been asked
to read a letter. I live at 3227 Virginia. I've been asked
to read a letter from Miss Daphne Roberts, 3509 Marloe
Avenue.
"Dear Mayor and City Commissioners, I have a very
valuable property on Oak Avenue and I'm deeply
�-
concerned about changing the zoning from RS-2/2.1
family to RG-1/3 general residential, one and two
family. There is a very beautiful condominium
town -house on Oak Avenue, seemingly unoccupied.
It also seems that Coconut Grove is going to be
over -populated with condominium town -houses and
office buildings. Lastly, we do not have a market
for these buildings. I would appreciate your
sincere considerations in these matters before you
make a final decision."
Mr. Jim McMaster: My name is Jim McMaster. I live at 2940
a
S.W. 30th Court., in a neighborhood very similar to this. I
got involved in this largely because the Planning Department
'
has come into our neighborhood and suggested that we might,
need a higher density because our neighborhood has
l
deteriorated and is being run down. Before the PAB meeting,
Mr. Luft went, to a long explanation, was very adamant that
3
ts
��3
sl 44 November 15, 1984
,
there were two sides to McDonald Street that., if I can use
the term, predominantly Black side, all those houses face
the side streets, that none of them face McDonald. To tell
you the truth, I didn't have a map in front of me, but I
thought, from memory that, if you go down Oak or Florida, you
would see houses facing you from the other side of the
street. At that meeting, I don't know if you've seen this,
but, they provided us with a little aerial map and some
analysis and things. If you look on their aerial, he
insisted -I'll say again- none of these houses face McDonald
Street. That was why we could re -zone on this side and it
would not affect the other side. They were two different
neighborhoods. Well, on the aerial map he gave me there is
a house that, faces Florida, it's right there; and there is a
house that faces Frow Avenue. Starting up by Lamb Court,
where the single-family zoning starts, you have 3308
McDonald, 3318 McDonald, 3320 McDonald, 3340 McDonald, and
3346 McDonald, all homes on the other side of the street
facing what he now wants to re -zone. As a matter of fact,
3342 McDonald is an old duplex. A lady has bought it and if
anyone drives over there right now, she is gutting the place
and turning it into a single-family residence. She is
converting an existing grandfather duplex into a single-
family residence. I've heard rumors about, the post office
property. I have a friend who knows two gentlemen who live
on Florida. They have sold -I don't, know which lots they
are- they are the third and fourth houses backing onto the
post office property. From what I understand, they were
sold quite a while ago, the two houses for $375,000.
Obviously, there is a lot of movement in this area and re-
zoning these nine lots accomplishes nothing. It's putting
pressure on Florida now to re -zone. Do we also want Florida
to be commercial? Mr. Antoniadis, in front of the PAB
stated that the people in Florida did not want R-2, that,
they wanted commercial. Do we want commercial? These nine
lots, it makes no sense. It does not change anything,
except for extending the R-2 down on to the single-family
across the street. Thank you.
Mayor Ferre: All right, Mr. Antoniadis.
Mr. Antoniadis: Mr. Mayor, we have heard some of the
opposition members speak out about the problems that this
area is facing. None of these people live in this
particular area. I would like to invite any of them to come
in this particular area. Furthermore, I'd like to point, out
that the people who game me support and the petition would
reflect that there are people abutting Florida Avenue, as
well as the opposite side of McDonald Street, all within the
prescribed area that we are seeking the change in zoning.
Furthermore I would like to go into the record and state
that, whatever Ms. Joanne Holzhouser stated about our
conversation is completely misunderstood. I am the one who
went, to the Planning Department, and I am the one who
presented the case, and the Planning Department concurred
with me. The area behind me is a transitional area.
Nothing has been done as far as seeking a change, although
the change is imminent. Furthermore, I am not asking
anything more than what is presently there and what is
presently surrounding my area and abutting my area. For
this, I seek your support. Thank you.
Mr. Dawkins: Mr. Mayor, somebody from the administration,
presently we have duplex and single-family homes. That is
correct or not?
Mr. Rodriguez: Right, yes.
Mr. Dawkins: Presently, we have documentary stamp money.
Is that right or wrong?
sl
45 November 15, 1984
9
1
Mr. Rodriguez: We do.
Mr. Dawkins: Thirdly, we in Miami, are supposed to be
attempting to build affordable housing. Is that right or
wrong?
Mr. Rodriguez: Yes, sir.
Mr. Dawkins: Why isn't it, that the administration is
working with the citizens and the developer to try to show
him, this gentleman, the advantages that he might pick up -
because all of us, I think, ought, to realize the bottom line
is profit.. We can sit here all we want. The bottom line is
profit. Since we need affordable housing in the City of
Miami and Coconut Grove is in the City of Miami, did anyone
ever sit, down to try to see if this gentleman would be
interested in taking his property and whatever the profit
margin is for the duplex, show him how he might arrive at
that with the single, affordable housing.
Mr. Rodriguez: We can refer it to the proper department for
that, sir.
Mr. Dawkins: Did anybody ever do that?
Mr. Rodriguez: That was not the question that came before
us, so we didn't do it, no. The question, again to try to
summarize the position that, we had on this, this property
owner came to us saying that he and other people in the area
wanted to have a zoning change, but they didn't, have enough
land to apply. In the first, recommendation that we had that
withdrew, we included the property of the whole block.
After we realized that there was no support and that we
didn't have the complete information from the property
owners in the area, we had a meeting with the people from
the area and we explained what we had in mind originally.
We got very clear that the people facing Florida Avenue as
part of the block, were not, in accordance with the
recommendation that, we had. We limit our recommendation to
half of the block because it makes sense always to have that,
portion of the block recommended for duplex.
Mayor Ferre: Why?
Mr. Rodriguez: If you look at Florida....
Mayor Ferre: Look, let me tell you what my problem is and
my confusion. Let me tell you where my confusion and
where... This is not, spot, zoning, because it's RG-1/3
across the street, so it's not spot zoning, Joanne, I
disagree with that statement.
Mrs. Holzhouser: I didn't say spot zoning.
Mayor Ferre: Somebody said spot, zoning.
Mr. Plummer: Marilyn.
Mayor Ferre: I disagree, this is not spot, zoning. On the
other hand, here you have a property owner who owns six
lots, comes to you and says they don't have enough land,
they have convinced the department to do it for the whole
block, -I understand that. We're just moving the duplex
line from Oak to Florida and making it like the rest of
McDonald and that whole area which is for duplexes. But
then the neighborhood comes around and the neighbors say
they don't want that. They want that whole area there wants
to be kept, as a single-family area. This theory that on the
one side you got Blacks, see on this side of McDonald, you
sl 46 November 15, 1984
0
LAM
2
M
got, S-2/2, because that's where Black people live; and on
this side you got White people and therefore, we can go to
RG-1/3, I don't see the logic of that.
UNIDENTIFIED SPEAKER: It's ridiculous.
Mr. Rodriguez: I didn't say that either.
Mayor Ferre: I mean somebody said that there was some kind
of logic to...this young man said that one side was White,
one side was Black. That, may or may not be, but I don't
think that has anything to do with the zoning.
Mr. McMaster: Excuse me, no, Jack Luft said that they were
two different neighborhoods because the land on the west
side, all those houses face the side streets, and as I
indicated, that's not true.
Mayor Ferre: What the color of the residences has nothing
to do, I think, with the zoning of it. Are we doing zoning
because on the one side it's White and therefore, we can go
to RG-1/3 and on the other side we don't, want to go to RG-
1/3 because it's Black? I mean, I don't understand the
logic of that. I need, I'm wrestling trying to understand
why you want to do this.
Mr. Rodriguez: If I may summarize it again.
Mayor Ferre: No, I heard you twice, You summarized it
twice, unless you have something new, I heard what you said
before.
Mr. Rodriguez: I was trying to finish last time.
Mayor Ferre: Are you going to repeat what you said before
or are you going to say something different.
Mr. Rodriguez: Let me try to say something different. Also
Oak connects 27th Avenue to 32nd, and people have been
taking that road to go from one place to another. It makes
more sense to have a higher intensity in that portion, and I
think everything else that I mentioned about density across
the street is there, so I don't want to repeat it.
Mayor Ferre: I hope you don't apply that logic to my
neighborhood, because there's an awful lot of people who cut
from 17th, they get on Tigertail and they go through
Espanola and they come out right in front of Jack Luft's
property. Under that logic, then, you would increase the
density of my neighborhood because it's used as a traveling
street between one area and another.
Mr. Holzhouser: Excuse me, but can you tell me what he's
going to do with Ingraham Highway where I live, if he's go
on the amount of...I've got 20,000 some commuters, does that
mean we're going to have a high rise on my property now?
Mayor Ferre: Mr. Luft, do you want to say something?
Mr. Jack Luft: The question was posed to us by Mr.
Antoniadis, if Oak is a busy street, and it is, and if one
side has the right to build duplexes, why, if I share that
same street, should I be limited to single-family, if have to
have the same conditions as they do. Espanola, both sides
are, of course, single-family, so is Tigertail, so is
Ingraham Highway. We could not give him a good reason why
he should be limited to single-family on the south side, if
everyone else was duplex on the north side.
sl 47 November 15, 1984
Mayor Ferre: Let me ask you this, even though I'm sure the
color of people has nothing to do with it. If the people on
the other side of McDonald, right across the street, in
section 11, lots 12, 13, and 14 and 3, and 4, and 5 and then
on the other side on lots 13, 14, section 10 from Percival
south, were to say, "Under your logic, it fits us, we want
RG-1/3 also."
Mr. Luft: If they could demonstrate through the platting of
those properties, if there was a defensible line, a way to
draw a line logically that would not creep, would not, move,
then we would have to listen to them. But where this line
is drawn and where we're drawing it down the middle of the
block, that's clearly a separation.
Mr. Plummer: How do you tell the people on Florida Avenue
side that, it, won't creep there.
Mr. Luft: Florida is a very different street than Oak
Avenue, obviously.
Mr. Plummer: What I'm saying is as far as the creeping.
Mr. Luft: It's a one block street; it goes from no place to
no where.
Mrs. Holzhouser: I'm sorry, it, does go on over to Douglas
Road, Jack.
Mr. Luft: Well, it's not, a through street, Joanne, you know
that. It's a very quiet block and we agreed that Florida
Avenue is very different than Oak. Oak is where the whole
thing. It all boils down to simply if the question was
posed to us, "Why should I be restricted to single family
when the people across the street on the same street, have
duplex?" I really could not give them a good reason why not,
and we would accept, a proposition. I'm not saying we're
fighting for duplex on Oak Avenue; we're not.
Mayor Ferre: But you do recommend this, Mr. Luft?
Mr. Luft: We see there is a logic to it. We cannot, say
that he should be denied it when the person across the
street on that same street has it.
Mayor Ferre: Thank you. Mr. Antoniadis, let me ask you a
question. Do you own all six of these lots, or do you have
an option to buy them, or what?
Mr. Antoniadis: I do not. I own, in fact, I would like to
answer your question....
Mayor Ferre: Why don't you answer this question, first.
Mr. Antoniadis: Yes, I own the three lots in green.
Mayor Ferre: Three lots in green, all right, the other lots
which are lots 12, b and 7.
Mr. Antoniadis: They are owned by two gentlemen, whose name
escapes me.
Mayor Ferre: Do you have an option to buy those?
Mr. Antoniadis: No, I do not. They own all of the red area
as rental units. Adjacent, to me is a Black family, Mr.
Fudge, who is going to be there beyond his death through his
children. My support came in mostly from Florida Avenue and
from the Black community from block 11 and block 20, I
believe. If you see the petition, you'll see that all the
support has come from these two areas.
sl 48 November 15, 1984
0
Mayor Ferre: Yiannis, let, me ask you this question. How
long have you owned tots 9, 10, and 11.
Mr. Antoniadis: I have owned them since 1969. I have built
my own house, in which I lived for ten years and I still own
it over there. In fact, instead of all these concrete
abominations that, were mentioned here were going to be
created there, I have lived a house that I live in it for
better than ten years which should be published throughout
the world and which has received recognition by this
Commission several times.
Mayor Ferre: So, in other words, this is something you
owned for a long time.
Mr. Antoniadis: I owned for a long time.
Mayor Ferre: You lived there and this is not something that
you just bought six months ago or a year ago to speculate
on.
Mr. Antoniadis: No, sir.
Mayor Ferre: Is it your intention to knock down that house?
Mr. Antoniadis: No, it is not my intention to knock down
that house. I have, in fact, some of these properties have
duplexes now. These duplexes exist since the 301s. They're
grandfathered in. But in essence, they are still R-1. If a
fire caught, on this place, if some catastrophe happens, I
cannot replace what, I have there.
Mayor Ferre: So why is it, since you are not going to
replace what's there, why do you want to do this? I don't
understand the logic to that.
Mr. Antoniadis: In the future, I hope and I pray to develop
to reconstruct, this area and to revitalize it because it is
decaying and it's not, ... and I intend to do exactly what Mr.
Dawkins says, to provide more housing for responsible people
to be there, to revitalize the area.
Mayor Ferre: Let me ask, then I'm finished and then
somebody else can ask questions. Let me ask the department,
if I may, through the Manager, whomever is going to answer.
If Mr. Antoniadis does what he says and is successful, and
if he should then desire an
Mayor Ferre: come to an agreement with the property owners
south, which are block 13, 14, 15, and 16 and then he would
request that RG-1/3 were to be extended there, let's say in
two or three years from now; then what would be the position
of the department? What, are you saying, Jack? I can't hear
you.
Mr. Sergio Rodriguez: I would have to look at. what is the
situation there.
Mayor Ferre: But you just recommended that the whole block
be....
Mr. Rodriguez: But, you are talking about a portion of the
block only now.
sl 49 November 15, 1984
t
7YN'i'
.i
iI
t
Mayor Ferre: Yes, I know, but the point is what was the
logic that, impulsed the department to recommend the full
block be rezoned to RG-1/3? Now you are telling me that you
would have to look at it, again, but when you looked at, it,
last, time, you said, O.K. Now you are telling me that
you're not too sure. That's not consistent.
Mr. Rodriguez: You are right.
Mayor Ferre: In other words, if Mr. Antoniadis, or somebody
else buys those lots and they come here and they say they
want, the same treatment as their next, door neighbor, it's
not spot, zoning, it's not, creeping because in effect what
they really want is just a continuation of RG-1/3- Under
what, logic would you deny them a request for RG-1/3?
Mr. Rodriguez: What I'm saying by ... we'll look at that time
at the situation is because if we were to get a project that,
will be unified, that will provide some improvement to the
area and that will take care of some of the dilapidated
units that may be there, we will be agreeable to it, because
I think that would be an improvement the the site.
Mayor Ferre: Isn't it reasonable to assume that if you
already approved it once, that if....
Mr. Rodriguez: It is possible.
Mayor Ferre: ....Mr. Luft and you and the others and still
there, that you would probably approve it the second time?
Mr. Rodriguez: Yes.
Mayor Ferre: Now let me ask you the next question. Then
they buy lots 10, 12, 11, and 10 across the street, and they
would say, "Well, you know you gave it, to us up in Oak, and
you gave it us in Florida; what, logic would you have to deny
it, in the last little strip between Florida and Grand
Avenue?
i
Mr. Rodriguez: But isn't that the way zoning is done in the
City? I mean, slowly we change as we see the needs for the
different areas.
Mayor Ferre: So, in other words, you recognize the fact
that on the Wnite side of McDonald Street, from RG-13 it
eventually will go right down to Grand Avenue, but we're not
sure about, the Black side because that might be creeping
since there is no pattern of that being established. Do you
want, to tackle that one, Jack?
Mr. Jack Luft: I think Florida has to be treated altogether
from McDonald to the school.
Mayor Ferre: You seem to be the author according to what,
somebody said, according to this young man over here, Mr.
McMasters, Jim McMasters said that there were two kinds of
McDonalds. I don't mean the hamburger either.
Mr. Gary: Mr. Mayor, let's correct, the record. I think he
has stated that there was a difference, but, he denied that
he said because of Black and White. I think that needs to
be corrected immediately.
Mr. Dawkins: It's been corrected, Mr. Gary. That s no
problem. The problem with me is who owns 12 now? Is 12
vacant, or built, on now?
Mr. Antoniadis: Twelve is owned by Mr. Fudge.
sl
50 November 15, 1984
7
Mr. Dawkins: I don't worry about whether he's chocolate or
3
vanilla fudge because we're on the wrong side of McDonald.
No problem, who owns 13, 14, and 15 now? Are they vacant or
do they have homes on them?
Mr. Plummer: They have houses on them.
Mr. Dawkins: Are they substantial housing, or is it
inferior housing that, could be torn down?
Mr. Jack Luft: Those are all decent homes. There is
nothing inherently wrong with them. They are old.
Mr. Dawkins: In section 11, who owns 3 and 14 and is it a
home or is dilapidated and could be torn down?
Mr. Luft: I don't know who owns 3 and 14. Those are
likewise small, single family homes. I believe those are
wooden homes. Are they not?
Mr. Jim McMaster: Jim McMaster, 2940 S.W. 30th Court, if
you go up to Lamb Court, where the line is between what used
-
to be R-1 and R-2, if you start at lot number 14... if you
want to go down south directly where Florida comes out, if
you follow Florida Avenue out to McDonald, directly across
the street there, apparently it doesn't follow the original
_
plat though the property is divided differently. There was
an old duplex there, two old, flat, duplexes; the lady has
gutted them and is in the process right, now of reverting a
grandfather duplex back into a single family home.
Obviously this neighborhood is being revitalized under the
single family zoning on the other side of the street. What
are we going to tell her if this zoning slips down. She's
put, her faith in the City of Miami zoning and wants to live
{
in this neighborhood. What are we going to tell her? Then
also, as I've mentioned before, the third and fourth house
in on Florida, backing into the post, office, I don't know
exactly who bought it. I assume the same gentleman who owns
the post office, but he paid $375,000 for two houses on
Florida backing into the post office. Apparently the two
gentlemen who bought, these two houses two years ago were
able to buy them from the landlord because one of them was
in such bad shape that the landlord did not want, to bother
fixing it, up, so obviously the gentleman who bought these
two properties didn't buy them for $375,000 for the existing
buildings on them. He's buying them because there is
pressure from the post, office on back.
Mr. Dawkins: O.K., now my question back to Mr. Luft. Mr.
Luft, you said that, because of the duplexes on one side of
s
the street, we could not, deny this gentleman the right to
put duplexes on the other side. Is that correct?
Mr. Luft: You could deny him, sure you could.
i
Mr. Dawkins: But you said you saw no legitimate reason.
Mr. Luft: I found it hard to explain why on Oak Avenue one
side would have to be kept, single family and the other side
is already duplex.
..
Mr. Dawkins: So when we come down to McDonald, on that side
_ =
of McDonald and Oak, all the way to McDonald, that's going
to be zoned duplex? How are you going to explain to me
across in 3 and 14, if I come to you for duplex, how are you
going to explain to me that I can't, get duplex?
Mr. Luft: If we wanted to address an application on the
west side of McDonald anywhere on any of those blocks, we
r
,�-
sl 51 November 15, 1984
-77
would be forced into the position of drawing a line not. a
little jog around those lots, but drawing it all the way up
from where that number ten is, finding an appropriate set,
back, maybe two lots, maybe one lot, off McDonald and drawing
it all the way down to Grand Avenue. We would have to take
all of those lots. We would not be jogging in. It's a
question of pattern. It could be argued, you're quite
right., that people on McDonald...there's only what., five
lots, six lots left on McDonald all the way to Bird that are
single family. Marilyn Reed has a lot zoned duplex just, up
the street. I'm sure somebody may say, why if I'm on
McDonald, which is a busy road, if we're only five lots,
there are 25 other lots on McDonald, they're all duplexes,
why can't, we have it? It would have to be a uniform line
down there. There would be a case for that.
Mr. Dawkins: Why can't, we uniformly draw that line,
uniformly now, and exclude what we want for duplex now,
since you say all we have to do is uniformly draw a line and
decide what we're going to zone it. Why is it that. we
cannot, uniformly draw the line to exclude his lots and make
them single family.
Mr. Luft: We can, I think the pressure on McDonald, sir,
the pressure on McDonald for rezoning to duplex....
Mr. Dawkins: Let's not make it worse; we have enough
problems.
Mr. Luft: O.K., fine.
Mayor Ferre: We need to bring this to a decision now.
Mr. Antoniadis: May I say something in answer to
Commissioner Dawkins, please? The lots behind these have
already supported me and there is, they have signed the
petition in support.
Mr. Dawkins: And if you can't buy them to make duplexes,
I'll see if I can make a loan so I can make them duplex;
there's no problem,.
Mayor Ferre: As soon as we get Commissioner Plummer back,
we'll take up...hopefully we'll bring this to a head. In
the meantime....
Ms. Marilyn Reed: Mayor, please, I want to put something to
rest. I have heard this line....
Mayor Ferre: Is this new testimony?
Ms. Reed: No, no, sir, I have heard this for years and we
j
fought it in my area for years. This line always being
drawn, this fictitious line about integration. I want you
to know that, our whole area has been integrated since the
founding of the Grove, since we're the oldest section. We
like our Black neighbors and we want to keep them. I want,
that to stop. I'm tired of hearing it.
a
----------------------------------------- ----------------
18. EXTEND LIQUOR HOURS N.C.O.P. ON SUNDAYS DURING DECEMBER
----------------------------------- --------------------
Mayor Ferre: O.K., while we get Commissioner Plummer back
here, we have the people from CAMACOL who have requested
Commissioner Perez a grant permit, to liquor stores in the
Y, Y
sl 52 November 15, 1984
.t .
N
City of Miami to remain open for the following Sundays of
the month in December 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd, and 30th. Is
there a motion?
Mr. Dawkins: Move it.
Mr. Perez: Move.
Mayor Ferre: It's been moved and seconded. Further
discussion? Call the roll. We do this every year.
The following resolution was introduced by Commissioner
Dawkins, who moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 84-1305
A RESOLUTION PERMITTING THE SALE OF
ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES BY LIQUOR PACKAGE
STORES, NOT FOR CONSUMPTION ON THE PREMISES
(N.C.O.P.) ON ALL SUNDAYS DURING THE E
MONTH OF DECEMBER 1984, DURING THE HOURS OF
10:00 A.M. THROUGH 10:00 P.M.
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here
and on file in the Office of the City Clerk.)
Upon being seconded by Commissioner Perez, the
resolution was passed and adopted by the following vote -
AYES: Commissioner Miller J. Dawkins
Commissioner J. L. Plummer, Jr.
Vice -Mayor Demetrio J. Perez, Jr.
Mayor Maurice A. Ferre
NOES: None.
ABSENT: Commissioner Joe Carollo
19. MOTION DENYING APPLICATION FOR CHANGE OF ZONING AREA
S.Y. 32 AVE., OAK AYE., W. BOUNDARY OF KIRK MONROE PARK,
ETC.
Mayor Ferre: We now have, I think, to come to a decision on
item number 3. I assume all the questions have been asked.
Are there any other questions? What's the will of this
Commission? What's the will of this Commission? What's the
will of this Commission? Is there a motion, then to
continue? Is there a motion for approval? Is there a
motion for denial? Say something!
Mr. Plummer: We are looking to the wisdom of the center
chair.
Mayor Ferre: I've already expressed my opinion.
Mr. Plummer: I second your motion.
Mayor Ferre: Make a motion, J.L.
Mr. Plummer: Mr. Mayor, personally, I don't see how we can
even consider this application on its face. Lots 7 and 8,
which are a part, of this application are opposed, according
to what we .5ee here to try to accumulate property to put it
together, obviously the Planning Department, acted in good
..'," faith when they went forth to do and make their
s _
�:•r._ _ sl 53 November 15, 1984
recommendation as they did. I don't see how in any way you
could justify turning the other people down if they were to
come in to it. If it's going to be done to me, it's going
to be done as a study for the entire area, but this
application as a single application, I would have to move
for denial.
Mayor Ferre: Is there a second? Seconded, is there further
discussion? Call the roll.
The following resolution was introduced by Commissioner
Plummer, who moved its adoption:
MOTION NO. 84-1306
A MOTION DENYING AN APPLICATION BY THE
PLANNING DEPARTMENT FOR ORDINANCE 9500 ATLAS
CHANGE FROM RS-2/2 TO RG-1/3 AT
APPROXIMATELY AREA BOUNDED BY S.W. 32ND
AVE., OAK AVE., THE WEST BOUNDARY OF KURK
MONROE PARK AND THE REAR LOT LINE OF
PROPERTIES FRONTING ON THE SOUTH SIDE OF OAK
AVENUE.
(Here follows body of motion, omitted here
and on file in the Office of the City Clerk.)
Upon being seconded by Commissioner Perez, the motion
was passed and adopted by the following vote -
AYES: Commissioner Miller J. Dawkins
Commissioner J. L. Plummer, Jr.
Vice -Mayor Demetrio J. Perez, Jr.
Mayor Maurice A. Ferre
NOES: None.
ABSENT: Commissioner Joe Carollo
20. AUTHORIZE CITY MANAGER TO ALLOCATE $200,000 PURCHASE OR
LEASE OF LIGHTING EQUIPMENT FOR CONVENTION CENTER IN
CONNECTION WITH FORTHCOMING BEAUTY PAGEANTS.
Mr. Plummer: Mr. Mayor, could I ask because Mr. Monty
Trainer is here as head of the Host Committee, -what, item is
it in reference to the lights? They would like to get.....
Mayor Ferre: Items 30 and 38.
Mr. Plummer: I'm assuming that comes with a recommendation
of the Manager. What, is the cost factor involved? We have
already tentatively approved it.
Mr. Dean Hofineister: Yes, this was discussed at the special
meeting on August the 16th. At that time, the basic
lighting package was estimated to cost around $150,000. We
have in the meantime been able to ascertain more accurately
the cost, needed for the pageants.
Mr. Plummer: How much?
Mr. Hofineister: The total cost, would be $200,000 for a
purchase of a basic lighting package for the center.
sl 54 November 15, 1984
Mr. Plummer: Mr. Manager, do you recommend? You don't
recommend? Mr. Mayor, I move item 30.
Mr. Dawkins: Second.
Mayor Ferre: That, means we're going to buy for $300,000?
Mr. Plummer: Two.
Mayor Ferre: It, says $320,000.
Mr. Gary: We only buy the lighting, Mr. Mayor, that, we're
going to need on a continuous basis. The other lighting, we
will lease.
Mr. Plummer: Maurice, this is all agreed upon.
Mayor Ferre: It's been moved and seconded. Is there
further discussion?
Mr. Plummer: The only discussion that I would ask is that
going to be in place for the Miss Teen-age?
Mr. Hofineister: For the first pageant it will be necessary
to rent the equipment.
Mr. Dawkins: Will the rent be applied towards the purchase?
Mr. Gary: We can try.
Mr. Hofineister: We can explore that, yes.
Mr. Plummer: I think it will be well worth while.
Mayor Ferre: Call the roll.
The following motion was introduced by
Commissioner Plummer, who moved its adoption:
MOTION NO. 84-1307
A MOTION AUTHORIZING AND DIRECTING THE
CITY MANAGER TO ALLOCATE AN AMOUNT NOT
TO EXCEED $200,000 TO PURCHASE ON A
CONTINUOUS BASIS OR LEASE LIGHTING
EQUIPMENT FOR THE CITY OF MIAMI
CONVENTION CENTER TO BE USED IN
CONNECTION WITH THE 1985-1986 BEAUTY
PAGEANT PROGRAM.
Upon being seconded by Commissioner Dawkins, the motion
was passed and adopted by the following vote -
AYES: Commissioner Miller J. Dawkins
Commissioner J. L. Plummer, Jr.
Vice -Mayor Demetrio J. Perez, Jr.
Mayor Maurice A. Ferre
Commissioner Joe Carollo
November 15, 1984
21. AUTHORIZE 2-DAY PERMIT FOR SALE OF BEER: CERAMIC LEAGUE
OF MIAMI-KENNETH MYERS PARK DECEMBER 1 & 2.
Mayor Ferre: Item 38 is a two day permit to sell beer for
the Ceramic League of Miami on their 35th anniversary to be
held at, Ken Myers Park.
Mr. Dawkins: Move it.
Mayor Ferre: It's been moved by Dawkins. Is there a
second?
Mr. Perez: Second it.
Mayor Ferre: Further discussion on 38? Call the roll.
The following resolution was introduced by Commissioner
Dawkins, who moved its adoption:
i
RESOLUTION NO. 84-1308
A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING A TWO-DAY PER14IT TO
SELL BEER FOR THE CERAMIC LEAGUE OF MIAMI IN
CONNECTION WITH THE "35TH ANNIVERSARY FAIR"
TO BE HELD AT KENNETH MYERS PARK ON DECEMBER
1 AND 2, 1984.
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here
and on file in the Office of the City Clerk.)
Upon being seconded by Commissioner Perez, the
resolution was passed and adopted by the following vote -
AYES: Commissioner Miller J. Dawkins
Commissioner J. L. Plummer, Jr.
Vice -Mayor Demetrio J. Perez, Jr.
Mayor Maurice A. Ferre
NOES: None.
ABSENT: Commissioner Joe Carollo
22. BRIEF DISCUSSION
&
TEMP. DEF: REQ.
FOR CHANGE OF ZONING
2210 S.W. 16 ST.
&
1600-02 S.W. 22
AVE.
------------------------------------------------------------
Mayor Ferre: The next item is item 4. Take up item 4.
We're on item 4.
Mr. Plummer: Let me ask just one other question, because as
I recall this matter was deferred at the request, of
Commissioner Carollo, who asked that he have the opportunity
to go see it and he is not here. The second portion of it
is that they're not with counsel. Their counsel can't be
here until this afternoon.
Mayor Ferre: Then we should have said that to these people
early this morning so they could have gone.
i
Mr. Plummer: I'm just, putting it on the record, Mr. Mayor.
Mayor Ferre: I've got no problems breaking and then coming
back in an hour and a half or two hours or breaking for an
hour so we can get something to eat, and then coming back. I
think this is going to be a long item. I don't, think this
is going to be done in two minutes.
Mr. Perez (Applicant): Yes, if I may, Mayor, I'd like to
re-emphasize what Commissioner Plummer said. Several
sl 56 November 15, 1984
AW
things, first of all, our attorney isn't, here. I'm willing
to represent myself.
i
Mayor Ferre: You see, that's not our fault; and that's not
the neighborhood's fault. If your attorney isn't here,
that's your problem; that's not, our problem. That's not a
+ valid reason. Go on.
Mr. Perez (Applicant): We're willing to represent
ourselves, so that's not a valid reason. Second of all,
Commissioner Carollo said he wanted the opportunity to....
Mayor Ferre: Commissioner Carollo is not here because he's
sick today. That's a valid point, and that's a courtesy
that we always extend to a member of the Commission; but, you
see, that, should have been said early on so these people
could have gone home at 10:00 o'clock when they got, here.
Mr. Perez (Applicant): I will abide with whatever the Mayor
and the Commissioners want, to do.
Mayor Ferre: What's the will of this Commission?
Mr. Plummer: Let me ask of the neighbors, would you all
want to consider a deferment, until the next meeting?
INAUDIBLE BACKGROUND COMMENTS NOT ENTERED INTO THE PUBLIC
RECORD.
Mr. Plummer: No, I'm just trying to ask.
Mr. Perez: Do you want to have fifteen minutes for making
statements and we continue the case at, 2:00 o'clock? I
think that the Mayor was clear, we are supposed to finish at
12:00 o'clock.
Mayor Ferre: Yes, ma'am, please come up and make your
statement. See, the problem is that, this wonderful job that
we have doesn't require us not to go without lunch. That's
the problem.
Ms. Gertrude Marks: Mr. Mayor, we have been here since
10:00 o'clock. What you may wish to do is to take a vote of
the people who are here and who are opposed; and then ask
those who have statements if they would be willing to come
back. I am willing to come back.
Mayor Ferre: I am willing to stay and let them, if they
want to make them now.
Ms. Marks: No, I don't think we should divide the meeting.
I don't think it is fair to either side.
Mayor Ferre: I think you are right.
Ms. Marks: So what would you like to do, sir? Those who
are willing to make statements, who wish to make statements,
would be willing to come back. The others might not.
Mayor Ferre: We need your name and address for the record.
Ms. Marks: My name is Gertrude Marks, 2207 S.W. 16th
Terrace. I am prepared to make a statement.
Mayor Ferre: Ms. Marks, I think what, the Commission is
trying to do is trying to accommodate the neighbors as best,
we can. On the other hand, we do have a 2:00 o'clock
session. We do want, to eat something. So the question is
if we can get you to make a statement now, we'll stay over
for a little bit and then we'll come back after lunch.
sl 57 November 15, 1984
f,'
Ms. Marks: Mr. Chairman, I believe it would be fairer to
all concerned if those who are going to make statements make
it after lunch, but, could you take a vote of those who are
opposed here now and will not, be coming back?
Mayor Ferre: All right, that's fine. Those of you who are
opposed, that will not be coming back, would you raise your
hand?
Ms. Marks: Excuse me, sir, would you take a vote of all
who are opposed?
Mayor Ferre: All of those who are opposed, please raise
your hand. Let the record reflect that 15 people raised
their hands in opposition. Are there some of you that.
cannot remain until after lunch and who wish to make a
statement at this time? Anybody who wishes to make a
statement, we will stay over to hear that statement. Those
of you who wish to speak at this time, I will recognize.
Ms. Marks: Mr. Chairman, may we begin at 2:00 o'clock with
item 4?
Mayor Ferre: Yes, ma'am, we shall begin at 2:00 o'clock
with item number 4.
WHEREUPON, THE CITY COMMISSION WENT INTO
A RECESS AT 12:05 P.M., RECONVENING AT
2:01 P.M., WITH ALL MEMBERS OF THE
COMMISSION FOUND TO BE PRESENT EXCEPT
COMMISSIONERS CAROLLO AND DAWKINS.
23 FORMALIZING RESOLUTION: ALLOCATE $50,000 PARTLY
UNDERWRITE 15TH ANNUAL BUDWEISER UNLIMITED HYDROPLANE
REGATTA ETC.
------------------------------------------------------------
Mr. Plummer: Mr. Mayor, may I bring up this item here on
the Unlimited. We furnished what Commissioner Carollo has
asked for.
Mayor Ferre: Go ahead.
Mr. Plummer: A resolution allocating from Special Programs
and Accounts, contingent fund, an amount not to exceed
$50,000 to partly underwrite the 15th Annual Budweiser
Unlimited Hydroplane Regatta, and an additional amount of
$15,000 as a grant in support of the said regatta, said
additional amount being allocated in consideration of
entertainment sports programming network (ESPN) television
coverage of the event which will enable the regatta to be
seen on closed circuit television; further conditioning said
allocation upon substantial compliance with City of Miami
Administrative Policy No. APM-1-84, dated, January 24, 1984.
Mr. Mayor, I move.
Mayor Ferre: Is there a second?
Mr. Perez: Second.
Mayor Ferre: Further discussion?
Mr. Plummer: Mr. Mayor, for your information, as requested,
there is a second sheet giving all the particulars of the
past, as requested.
sl
58 November 15, 1984
3
1
Mayor Ferre: Further discussion of this item? Call the
roll, please.
The following resolution was introduced by Commissioner
Plummer, who moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 84-1309
A RESOLUTION ALLOCATING FROM SPECIAL
PROGRAMS AND ACCOUNTS, CONTINGENT FUND, AN
AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $50t000 TO PARTLY
UNDERWRITE "THE 15TH ANNUAL BUDWEISER
UNLIMITED HYDROPLANE REGATTA "AND AN
ADDITIONAL AMOUNT OF $15,000 AS A GRANT IN
SUPPORT OF THE SAID REGATTA, SAID
ADDITIONAL AMOUNT BEING ALLOCATED IN
CONSIDERATION OF ENTERTAINMENT SPORTS
PROGRAMMING NETWORK (ESPN) TELEVISION
COVERAGE OF THE EVENT WHICH WILL ENABLE THE
REGATTA TO BE SEEN ON CLOSED CIRCUIT
TELEVISION; FURTHER CONDITIONING SAID
ALLOCATION UPON SUBSTANTIAL COMPLIANCE WITH
CITY OF MIAMI ADMINISTRATIVE POLICY NO. APM-
1-84, DATED, JANUARY 24, 1984.
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here
and on file in the Office of the City Clerk.)
Upon being seconded by Commissioner Perez, the
resolution was passed and adopted by the following vote -
AYES:
NOES:
Commissioner J. L. Plummer, Jr.
Vice -Mayor Demetrio J. Perez, Jr.
Mayor Maurice A. Ferre
None.
ABSENT: Commissioner Joe Carollo
Commissioner Miller J. Dawkins
------------------------------------------------------------
24. REQUEST METRO ON NEXT DREDGING REQUEST TO CORPS OF
ENGINEERS, DREDGING PERMIT 32' PROPERTY ADJACENT TO
BICENTENNIAL PARK FOR VISITING U.S. NAVAL SHIPS & OTHER
TOURIST ORIENTED SHIPS.
------------------------------------------------------------
Mayor Ferre: Item 32, go ahead, Mr. Sorg.
Mr. Stuart Sorg: Stuart Sorg, Coconut Grove resident, this
is following a meeting with the County regarding the
maintenance dredging. I'm seeking direction from the City
Commission. The County has determined that to maintenance
dredge the FEC slip to a depth of 25 feet....
Mayor Ferre: Ladies and gentlemen, this is a sixty second
item. We're going to take as soon as Dawkins walks in,
;f
we'll take up item 4, so hurry up, Mr. Sorg.
Mr. Sorg: The County has determined that to dredge 25 feet,
it will be $150,000 and to dredge 32 feet, it's $500,000.
This is the maintenance dredging of the FEC slip to bring
naval vessels in. I want some direction from the City
Commission as to....
Mayor Ferre:
sl
Would you repeat, those figures again?
59 November 15, 1984
;i
Mr. Sorg: Yes, sir, 25 feet maintenance dredge depth
$150,000; 32 foot maintenance dredge depth, $500,000. It,
has to be done....
Mayor Ferre: You're talking about the slip?
Mr. Sorg: Yes, sir, to bring the vessels in that we've been
trying to bring.
Mayor Ferre: The only way that we can ever get vessels in
is that, thing is... Right now, as I recall, there are
portions of it that are, it's basically 28 feet, back
toward....
Mr. Sorg: See, it drops down to 13 and 17 and 14. We need
to dredge it up.
Mayor Ferre: Where?
Mr. Sorg: Look at the top just as you enter this.
Mayor Ferre: That's because it would be next to the
bulkhead there is only 13 feet.
Mr. Sorg: Yes, sir.
Mayor Ferre: But in the middle, of course, it's 30 feet.
What you're saying is to make the whole thing 32 feet..
Mr. Sorg: Right, so we can bring the vessels in we want.
Mayor Ferre: Who's going to pay for it?
Mr. Sorg: That's what, we need to find out. What's the next
direction?
Mayor Ferre: The next direction is that, this Commission
would pass a motion to the Metropolitan Dade County and the
Port in specific that they ought to put, this into their port.
+ schedule and try to get money from Congress on ports, so as
to dredge that slip to 32 feet,. I think that's something
that we've already gone on record on, but if you want to do
again, would somebody move that?
Mr. Sorg: What would you like me to do to get the funding
to proceed?
Mayor Ferre: Why don't, you write out a check?
Mr. Sorg: That's a good idea.
Mayor Ferre: Other than that, my advice to you, Mr. Sorg,
is that once you get this document, that you go to Carmen
Lunetta and get after him to make an offer to the City of
Miami, which he's been talking about for a year and hasn't
done yet..
Mr. Sorg: All right, sir.
aMayor
Ferre: There is a motion now and it, has been duly
seconded that the City of Miami goes on record as wanting
Metropolitan Dade County in its next request, for funding for
dredging money out of the Port's funds that, are allocated by
Congress to include $500,000 so as to dredge the slip
between Bicentennial Park and the FEC property to 32 feet
and further requesting that Metro through its Seaport and
r;
the Director, Carmen Lunetta make an offer to the City of
Miami for the usage of that slip for the purposes of having
military vessels, U.S. Navy, and other governmental vessels
perhaps, like NOAA and other such things and guest, sailing
boats -what, are they called?- tall masts?
yaky
�r
[IJ J
sl 60 November 15, 1984
� t c
Al
i
Mr. Sorg: Yes, sir, tall ships.
Mayor Ferre: Tall ships and other tourist -oriented vessels
that would bring tourists to the City of Miami.
Mr. Sorg: I would like to also say that the City of Ft.
Lauderdale derived $25,000,000 last year from naval vessels
from people going ashore spending monies.
Mr. Dawkins: That's fine, you tell us that every time. But
we keep telling you over and over to go get the things
dredged out so we can get the boats in and also tell them
that we have to have money to maintain so that the before it
comes back in, we can still maintain the depth.
Mayor Ferre: Are we ready to vote now?
Mr. Dawkins: Yes.
The following motion was introduced by
Commissioner Dawkins, who moved its adoption:
MOTION NO. 84-1310
A MOTION OF THE CITY OF MIAMI COMMISSION
GOING ON RECORD AND REQUESTING OF
METROPOLITAN DADE COUNTY THAT, ON THEIR
NEXT DREDGING REQUEST BEFORE THE CORPS
OF ENGINEERS, THEY REQUEST A 32'
DREDGING PERMIT ON THE PROPERTY ADJACENT
TO BICENTENNIAL PARK/F.E.C. PROPERTY;
FURTHER REQUESTING THAT CARMEN LUNETTA,
SEAPORT DIRECTOR, MAKE AN OFFER FOR THE
USE OF THE SLIP BY VESSELS OF THE U.S.
NAVY, NOAA AND TALL SHIPS AND OTHER
TOURIST -ORIENTED VESSELS COMING TO THE
CITY OF MIAMI.
Upon being seconded by Commissioner Plummer, the motion
was passed and adopted by the following vote -
AYES: Commissioner Miller J. Dawkins
Commissioner J. L. Plummer, Jr.
Vice -Mayor Demetrio J. Perez, Jr.
Mayor Maurice A. Ferre
NOES: None.
ABSENT: Commissioner Joe Carollo
25. PUBLIC HEARING & TEMP. DEF.: REQUEST FOR CHANGE OF
ZONING 2210 S.M. 16 ST. & 1600-02 S.W. 22 AVE.
Mayor Ferre: Item 4, at, last. Counselor, you almost, didn't
make it.
Mr. Jose Villalobos: Good afternoon, Mr. Mayor, I do
apologize. It, was an oversight, but not only that, I also
make a mistake and I thought it, was a different time. Mr.
Mayor, we were here last time and I believe that this item -
I can bore you with statistics and the same arguments, but I
think the merits of the item have been heard by the
sl 61 November 15, 1984
Commission. If I remember correctly, after hearing from
both sides, Mr. Carollo requested a continuance until today,
so that he could have another opportunity to take a look at
the site. Mr. Plummer seconded by motion, on that, same
premise. In other words, we have heard arguments on both
sides. I have had the opportunity of my presentation. My
people were here. I believe that, at this point, your Honor,
it would be only proper for the Commission to go ahead and
make their own determination. We have requested
rezonification of lots 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5. There was by the
Mayor, perhaps, a suggestion that. items 1 and 2 could be
changed leaving the 3, 4, and 5 as they are. I would be
amiable to split the difference and instead of five, go for
three. In other words, go 1, 2, and 3; leaving the rest as
it, is now. I believe that again I stress the fact that the
presentation was made and it would be only duplication of
what. I have already stated, duplication of what, my people
have stated, duplication of what, the department, has stated.
I move, then, that this item would be discussed as it was
for last. time.
Mayor Ferre: Counselor, Mr. Villalobos, I just want to make
sure that my position was not misunderstood; I just, want to
make sure. I didn't, say that I was for this. I just said
that one of the things that we should consider would be the
rezoning of 1 and 2 under the logic that if you look at 16th
Street and you see what happens both at 17th Avenue, as I
remember and 27th Avenue at that level, there are commercial
properties on both sides.
Mr. Villalobos: I do stand corrected, yes, sir, that's what
I meant.
Mayor Ferre: That was the only logic that, I was trying to
pursue on that. We will hear from the neighbors again.
They have been here before. I want to on the record -I
don't, know whether I did this last time.
Mr. Villalobos: Then I would like to review. I'm going to
pass at this point at the interest of time. I would like to
request some time....
Mayor Ferre: Of course, you have that, right. I would like
to, on the record, because I don't, know whether I made
reference to Mrs. Marks' letter previously?
_
Mr. Richard Whipple: At the ; pp previous hearing you did, Mr.
Mayor.
Mayor Ferre: Did I?
Mr. Whipple: Mrs. Marks is here today.
Mayor Ferre: I saw Mrs. Marks this morning. I just want to
reiterate that in my almost four years as a Commissioner and
eleven years as Mayor, I've never seen a citizens' letter
better written than this letter that Mrs. Marks wrote on
this property. I just want, to commend you on it for the
thoroughness and the simplicity of it. We'll hear from the
neighbors.
Mr. Whipple: Can the staff make some brief comments? We
likewise, don't want, to reiterate what we went, through the
_
last time when Commissioner Carollo requested the
continuance for a view of the property. Just, as a statement
with respect, to viewing the property, I want to call your
attention to the existence and land use of 22nd Avenue and
16th Street without belaboring the point. On 22nd Avenue
between S.W. 8th Street southward to Coral Way, S.W. 22nd
j
'i
Street, we have 57 single family homes, we have 40 duplexes,
3,
4
a+$
sl 62 November 15, 1984
t
we have 6 apartment buildings, for a total of 187 dwelling
units and 103 structures and three legal, non -conforming
commercial uses, two within proximity of the subject area,
one further south across from the school. On 16th Street,
we have 117....
Mayor Ferre: Excuse the interruption, but we always, as you
know, as a courtesy, whenever there is an elected official
present, we always recognize him. We have a newly elected,
25-year-old representative that was just, elected to the
State House, Alberto Goodman, who just walked in.
Congratulations for your victory, Mr. Goodman.
Mr. Whipple: I just wanted to allude to the land use of
these two streets, which everybody is suggesting is
commercialized because of traffic. When you are talking
about 187 units and 103 structures in a one -mile stretch.
In other words, what is shown on the map, 187 units, 103
structures, on 16th Street we have 117 single family, 26
duplexes, 3 apartment structures for 195 units and 146
structures. I suggest to you, as we suggested before, this
is spot zoning in its most, violent, sense. With the
eradication or suggested elimination of two of the lots, the
spot zoning even becomes a smaller spot and even more
objectionable. It, is outright spot zoning. That is our
basis for recommending denial.
Mr. Villalobos: Without belaboring the point, may I? I
thought the department, stated that they did not, want to
reopen this thing again, but anyway. We do have 340
signatures. I was not, going to mention that, because the
department, stated that they did not, want, to belabor the
point. However, we're not disputing the facts as they are,
we're simply stating that our case was heard, that, the
evidence is in, that I believe that perhaps recognition and
standing of who's for and who's against would perhaps be
proper, and in the interest, of time, we can go ahead with
deliberations.
Mayor Ferre: We now turn to the neighbors. Mrs. Marks, if
you or anybody else wishes to address the Commission, you of
course, have that, right.. We have debated the issues. We've
heard both sides. You are entitled to whatever time you
need to make your case. I would hopefully request that you
not repeat.. Thank you.
Mrs. Gertrude Marks: My name is Gertrude• Marks, 2207 S.W.
16th Terrace. Gentlemen, although I was out of the country
during the first Commission review of this proposal, I
obtained the tapes of the discussions and would like to
comment on some of the points raised. In the statement
which I had read on my behalf by Mr. Fernandez on October
25, I spoke of the erection of an eight foot wall around the
boundaries not opening on either 16th Street, or 22nd Avenue.
I reconfirmed that this information with Mrs. Brindley, who
had been visited on Sunday, August 19th of this year by Mr.
Perez, Sr. with an interpreter. At, that time
representations were made that the wall would be erected. A
representative of Mr. Perez' visited Mrs. Bookburger about
two weeks after the first zoning board meeting on July 17th.
Again, the same representation was made. Contacting the
zoning board, I asked the breakdown of card responses by the
homeowners within the 375 foot notification area for the
proposed shopping center. Mrs. Betty Maud told me 65 cards
had been received with 25 of the homeowners for and forty
against. This means that 62% of the immediate impact zone
are against, the proposal. It, should be noted that the list
of residents provided by the sponsors of this spot, zoning
change reside predominantly outside the zone of
notification. I have personally visited 17th, 22nd, and
sl
63 November 15, 1984
27t.h Avenues, 8th Street and Coral Way and found that, the
residents outside the notification zone have more than ample
facilities available to them with boutiques, bakeries and
pharmacies on 8th Street, Coral Way, and the avenues; two
markets on 17th Avenue, three on 22nd Avenue, and the Winn
Dixie at 16th Avenue and Coral Way. All said facilities are
within easy walking, cycling, or driving distance, even
within the designated impact area. Thus, there is no
obvious need to have additional shopping facilities at, the
corner of 16th Street and 22nd Avenue. Driving north on
27th Avenue from the Main Highway to the N.W. 14th Street,
particularly above S.W. 8th Street, one appears to be
entering a cement jungle. The residents of the impact area
do not want a cement, jungle. Crossing to 22nd Avenue from
slightly north of Flagler Street down to S.W. 9th Street,
there are many small businesses, particularly auto parts,
auto repair and paint shops, as well as used auto sales
lots. On S.W. 22nd Avenue between 2nd Terrace and 3rd
Street, both the sidewalk and part of the outer lane were
blocked with cars in front of an auto paint shop, so the
motorists had to go from two lanes to one lane traffic and
the pedestrian into the street. From experience, this is a
regular occurrence and the residents of the impact area do
not want this phenomenon on 16th Street. and 22nd Avenue.
From S.W. 9th Street south to Coral Way there are residences
with the E1 Osito market and laundromat between 14th and
15th Streets, the Solis market, at 16th Street and the Rimar
market, laundromat, video arcade between 17th Terrace and
18th Street. All of these small businesses are
grandfathered and have served the community for many years.
At Coral Way, two service stations, one restaurant., and the
bank are at the intersection. Small shops are along Coral
Way for meeting every conceivable domestic need and in fact,
are anxious for additional business, as demonstrated by
pictures to be submitted to the Commission. The tape
records Mr. Villalobos' last, comment at the October 25th
meeting that "no commerce could exist within the
notification area," and I agree with him. It, would appear
that, the shopping center as being proposed more for the
residents outside the notification area. Those residents
would not be subjected to any of the problems associated
with such a center, such as the commercial intrusion into a
residential area, increased parking and traffic outside the
shopping center on adjacent, streets, delivery, garbage, and
miscellaneous service trucks, insufficient water pressure,
noise, the increased traffic hazards to the residents,
depreciated property, and in general, the luring of the
overall quality of life now in the neighborhood. We
appreciate the purpose of the zoning board and the
Commission hearings is to permit the proposals and concerns
of all sides to be fully known so that a consensus and
fairness can emerge. It is apparent to me as well as to all
of those with whom I have talked concerning this proposal
and its on -going process of consideration by the
Commissioners that the more we have heard as this review
process evolves, the more we have grown increasingly opposed
to the change in zoning. We, the 62% who live in the
immediate area that would be affected, agree with the zoning
board's overwhelming recommendation of denial and we look to
the Commissioners for relief in this matter now pending. We
have no objection to the construction of single family
residences on these lots for which they are zoned, but, we
continue to be opposed to this attempt at spot zoning.
These additional pictures are submitted to demonstrate some
of the existing problems as well as to show some of the
facilities available to residents both within and outside
the zone of notification. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
Mayor Ferre:
at, them and
sl
Yes, ma'am, you give them to me, I will look
pass them on to the Commission and put them on
64 November 15, 1984
the record.
I think you
Commission.
This is a copy of the statement you just read.
have enough copies for all members of the
Mr. Villalobos: Mr. Mayor, just for the record, I don't.
think I identified myself for the record. Jose Villalobos,
1401 Ponce de Leon Boulevard, Coral Gables, Florida on
behalf of Jemajo Corporation. If I may respond to....
Mayor Ferre: You may, but what I'd like to do is if you
would just hold back for a second, let's see if there are
any other neighbors who wish to speak at this time and then
you can respond to all of them at the same time. Yes, sir.
Mr. Max Freedman: Mr. Mayor, Commissioners, the name is Max
Freedman. The facts in this matter have been fully
discussed previously. Mr. Whipple has very ably presented
the standing of the City and Mrs. Marks has more than
demonstrated the reasons why the neighbors do not want this
intrusion, as she calls it, into the neighborhood.
Gentlemen, as feeling, reasonable people, I ask you to deny
this request for rezoning. We are against, it, and if this
is not, rezoned, we will have full faith in our elected
officials. Thank you very much.
Mayor Ferre: Any other speakers?
Mr. Denis Nunez: My name is Denis Nunez. I live at 2233
S.W. 16th Street, right, in front, of the building site or
where they plan to build. When I wake up in the morning,
the traffic is bad enough how it is at. 16th Street, right
now. When I get ready to go to school, it's real hard for
me to get out of there. Sometimes I arrive late at school
or when I'm going to go to work. If you go with this
building, I will get late for school and it, will create
}- problems for everybody. As far as that is concerned, at
night we have a market., and that parking space gets full of
people that drink at night, heavy drinkers and all that. It
will cause the same problem if you build another shopping
center there with parking lots and all that. I'm afraid
that our properties will depreciate in value. That's about,
Mayor Ferre: Counselor, it's your turn now.
Mr. Plummer: You have another lady there.
Mayor Ferre: Sorry, I didn't see you. Yes, ma'am.
Mrs. Gudrun Brindley: I'm Gudrun Brindley; I live at, 2245
S.W. 16 Terrace. Mr. Mayor and City Commissioners of the
City of Miami, gentlemen, I appear before you again to
express my continued opposition to rezoning of the five lots
at the S.W. corner of 22nd Avenue and 16th Street,. I have
already pointed out the unfavorable aspects of a change in
zoning such as increase traffic, parking problems, crime,
litter, noise, smelly garbage bins, commercial garbage
collection between 2:00 to 4:00 A.M., delivery trucks, noisy
air conditioners and air pollution, all combining to make
adjoining properties less desirable and depreciate in value.
If Mr. Perez, as he claims, and you, Mr. Mayor and City
Commissioners, really want to something to benefit the
neighborhood, you would leave it zoned as it, is and persuade
Mr. Perez to build homes instead of a shopping center,
which is not, needed and not, wanted.* What is wrong with one
family homes? One -family homes are presently located on the
two corners of the opposite side on 22nd Avenue and 16th
Street. Now, I want, to call to your attention the
relationship between the list, of names submitted by Mr.
Perez consisting of more than 300 names and my list of
sl
65 November 15, 1984
S
signatures representing 55 property owners, all within the
circle. It, is possible that, his list includes tenants,
different members of one family and many people located
outside of the circle. Those outside of the circle would
not, suffer annoyances and tenants do not concern themselves
with property devaluation. If a shopping center would be in
their back yard, I think they would have an entirely
different attitude. Furthermore, only property owners
within the zone of notification were invited by the zoning
board to express their views on this matter. My list
consists of property owners only, living within the circle
of the 375 foot radius. The properties adjoining the
proposed shopping center and others directly involved would
suffer the most annoyance and greatest loss. In conclusion
we appeal to you to protect our interest and again I ask
that you be guided by the unanimous decision of the zoning
board members, 8 to 0 for denial. Thank you.
Mayor Ferre: Are there any other public speakers at this
time? Counselor.
Mr. Villalobos: I think my client wants to address the
Commission and then I'll conclude.
Mr. Perez (Applicant): Mayor, Commissioners, as you know
the last, time the public hearing was held in our request to
change the zoning for the lots of S.W. 16th and 22nd Avenue.
Some of the Commissioners requested time to study the area
in order to aid them in making the right decision. I hope
you have all had the opportunity to do so. The continued
growth of the City of Miami has changed the nature of this
thoroughfare. S.W. 16th Street has become a major artery
connecting Miami to Coral Gables. It's my belief that. the
issue here is not whether a change will occur, because it
already has happened. One simply has to stand in the corner
of S.W. 16th Street, and 22nd Avenue at rush hour and it is
evident.. Efficient use of the City's resources is necessary
to maintain growth in urban survival. These lots have been
vacant since the early 70's. I do not, feel it is realistic
to retain the residential identity of the lots in question.
I ask the Commissioners and the Mayor to ask themselves the
following question. Would I live there? I submit to you
there is a need for a zoning change. This need has been
present, for quite some time and will continue to exist
regardless of what we, the people, decide today. The City
of Miami, being a progressive City, is presently expanding
S.W. 16th Street in recognition of a community need. In
closing, I'd like to say that we live in a democracy. We
have all the right, to voice our opinions and concerns. I
respect the opposition, who are also my neighbors. I ask
them to keep an open mind in their eyes on progress. In the
eventuality that, this change be approved now or ten years
from now, I wish to make it, clear that we will not lease any
of the stores for the operation of any objectionable
establishment. It is our intention to run covenants with
the property, making this clear and binding. Like them, I
have lived in Miami all my life and I would never do
anything to hurt this community or City or anything. I've
lived here all my life. Thank you.
Mr. Villalobos: Mr. Mayor, I am not going to say or ask the
questions are you better off now than four years ago.
Mayor Ferre: I hope you don't.
Mr. Villalobos: No, I won't. But
I'm
going to say this,
several
years ago, I used to sit in
the
zoning board and I
remember
that, may good, willing people
like we have here
today came out before the zoning
board. We have the
1
Planning
and Zoning Department, we
have
the Commission, we
sl
66
November 15, 1984
have the numerous things, people were saying that property
was less desirable, that, depreciating value and so on and so
forth and I'm sure that, they were stating their legitimate
concerns. They were saying that traffic would be bad and
that there would be garbage and so on and so forth.
Although we do not. propose to build an OMNI for Little
Havana or a Brickell Avenue on S.W. 8th Street, Mr. Mayor
and Mr. Commissioners, those concerns were also expressed
when I was sitting in the zoning board and people were
talking about the depreciation in value of Brickell Avenue.
We know on the last beauty pageant that we had the honor to
have in Dade County, that those were the streets that
flourished throughout the world. My clients are spending
the money and have lived here. I am not proposing to the
Commission saws or drinking or bars or air compressors or
massage parlors. I am not, proposing an eight foot wall. I
would convey to the Commission at this point that we would
write a covenant running with the land that, there would be
no eight, foot wall, like many people are afraid of. What we
are proposing is merely just, going with the times. Time
just some years back, we used to have a peaceful society in
Miami. We had perhaps 120,000 people in the entire Dade
County area. Times have changed and with that, have people.
We have had numerous changes, among which there have been
high rises and many businesses. We have to comply with the
will of the people. Certainly, there is one block 375 foot
area out there. What we're saying, Mr. Commissioners and
Mr. Mayor, is that we have changed our mind and we have
conceded that perhaps five would be too much, and at this
point, we are asking for the one, two and three. I think
this has been heard, has been studied, and at, the request of
Commissioner Carollo and second before the study have been
made and I'm sure that you will make the right, decision.
Thank you very much, sir.
Mayor Ferre: Further comments? At this time, are there
questions from members of the Commission?
Mr. Plummer: Mr. Villalobos, how long has your client owned
the property?
Mr. Villalobos: About, two years, sir.
Mayor Ferre: Any other questions? I'll tell you, Mrs.
Marks' letter, as I said before, was in my opinion,
extremely well thought out, carefully drafted letter. I'd
like to use that, as the basis for the questions that I have
to make sure I understand the issues. The first point that,
she made -you all have a copy of the letter- it is the
second portion of the document that she passed out.. It
says, one, makes commercial intrusion into the residential
nature of a long established and well maintained
neighborhood. Well, I don't think there is any question
about that; can't, argue that, one. Second point that she
makes, would severely impact and disturb adjacent property
values. Well, that's conjecture and I disagree with that.
I don't think it would disturb adjacent property values. If
anything, it, would probably increase them. Three, increase
the density of an already overcrowded and over -parked area,
since 16th Street is not wide enough to support additional
traffic and street, parking. Parking is prohibited on 22nd
Avenue. Patrons of Solis Market on the north corner of 16th
Street, and 22nd Avenue regularly park on 16th Terrace when
the market's lot is crowded. There is no denying that one.
I think there is no question that would happen. I think
that's for real. Four, lot, depth of 100 feet is not,
sufficient, intended, or planned for commercial use. Well,
I don't think it was intended or planned for commercial use,
but I think the 100 feet, is the width, isn't it? It's not,
the depth. How deep is the property?
r
Mr. Whipple: The property is approximately 300 feet, from
east to west, and 100 feet, north to south.
Mayor Ferre: Three hundred feet? I'm talking about lots
one and two, sir.
{
Mr. Whipple: Oh, one and two? They're 50 by 150 foot, lots,
generally, roughly.
Mayor Ferre: See, so it's 150 feet in depth.
Mr. Whipple: Yes, sir, those two lots.
i
Mayor Ferre: It would be 100 by 150 and that's why they
want that, extra 50 feet., so in effect what they are asking
for would be 200 by 100.
Mr. Villalobos: That, is correct, Mr. Mayor.
Mayor Ferre: There I disagree with Mrs. Marks. On the
fifth point, water pressure is insufficient for homes now
and it would become increasingly worse if any of the above
proposed businesses, a laundromat, for example, were
constructed. I don't think that's much of a point. Six,
what are the open air ordinances for Miami in the
residential areas? There are two garage apartments facing
on the area which would be affected by the erection of an
eight, foot, wall. If there is an eight, foot, wall, I agree
with point number six. One belongs to me, if such a wall
would rise to within two inches of the top of the windows of
the north side of my apartment; now Counselor, as I
understand it, you stipulated that if this thing passes, you
G.
voluntarily have proffered a covenant. Is that correct?
Mr. Villalobos: Already, sir.
.x
Mayor Ferre: That's in hand?
Mr. Villalobos: No, it, isn't in hand, sir. I just say that
(
I'm proffering to you that, this is what, we're doing.
Mayor Ferre: I see, O.K. Is this in first reading?
Mr. Plummer: Yes.
t
Mayor Ferre: So that, would have to be proffered by second
reading, O.K. Seven, what are the noise control ordinances,
since air conditioners and other ventilating mechanisms
would be blowing on residences located behind the building?
That's a problem generally in Miami. Obviously, it would
add that problem to the residential community, but I think
that would also be covered in your covenant.
Mr. Villalobos: Mr. Mayor, we could put, the air conditioner
x
right, on top of the roof, so the air conditioner would be
blowing skywards.
Mayor Ferre: Is that, something that, you are voluntarily
proffering in your covenant?
Mr. Villalobos: Yes, sir, that, is correct.
7
Mayor Ferre: Eight, garbage disposals stored in metal
'
containers, where would containers be located? I think that
is a valid question.
4.-
¢t
Est
u
sl 68 November 15, 1984
Mr. Villalobos: Your Honor, again, I can answer that.
!
Three lots, which we are asking is 21,400 square feet. That
would be 35% of the building at, the bottom level and 16% on
-1
the top, utilizing only 25% of the area. In other words,
61
this would be a two -level structure. A total of 51% of the
21,400 square feet, but again, only 25% of the building of
that particular lot. So, if granted lot 1, 2, and 3, then I
would have 100 by 150. There will be a set back in the
front, so we could have parking.
Mayor Ferre: No, it would be 100 by 200.
Mr. Villalobos: By 200, that is correct, sir. So, if we
set the building back, we have the air-conditioning blowing
skywards. We have the parking in the front. There will be
no problem as to, and of course, a covenant....
Mayor Ferre: I think the question that she is asking is
where would the garbage disposal and metal containers be
stored?
Mr. Villalobos: We can accommodate this particular point.
_
Mayor Ferre: She is asking a question and it's a fair
question. Where will it, be? Are you telling me that it
will be in the front, part of the building?
Mr. Villalobos: No, of course not., it would have to be in
the part portion, but we still would be buffered by lots
four and five, which will remain at the property of my
clients.
Mayor Ferre: What will you do with lots four and five?
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Mr. Villalobos: That will be up to them in the future. I
don't, know what they plan to do. Perhaps they might want to
live there.
S
Mayor Ferre: Are there houses there now?
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Mr. Perez (Applicant.): There are two homes there right now
which we own, two single family homes.
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Mayor Ferre: So what, you're saying is that. the garbage
Ai
containers would be next to four and five?
Mr. Villalobos: Right next to our property, sir.
Mr. Perez (Applicant): Right, next, to our property. It would
be a buffer between the rest of the neighborhood.
Mayor Ferre: At, what, time would garbage collections be made
and where would the trucks enter? Another valid question.
Mr. Villalobos: Sir, I assure you that, this property is
being built with money. In the United States, we want to
profit, with money. We just, don't want to aggravate people
so they don't come to our property. We would make it into
— '
such a business that first, of all, what we're complying is
light industries.
Mayor Ferre: That's not the question, counselor. The
question is what time would garbage collections be made and
where would trucks enter. It's a very specific question.
Would it be made at 3:00 o'clock in the morning?
Mr. Villalobos: I don't know, usually into this type of
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business, garbage collection would be at 3:00 o'clock in the
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morning. It, usually is in the late hours of the day, but
not at 3:00 o'clock in the morning, certainly.
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sl 69 November 15, 1984
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Mayor Ferre: See, I think they have a valid question. At,
what. time would garbage be collected and where would the
trucks enter. I think you have to explain to us what it is.
Mr. Perez (Applicant): If I may speak, Mr. Mayor, we
presently own a shopping center in S.W. 17th Avenue. We are
familiar with the way we have our garbage picked up, etc.
There are various options on that. We'd be willing to even
consider putting that, into -I'm not, aware that can be done -
putting that into the covenant, whatever time you would like
that to be done. There's very flexible schedule as far as
that. So, you know, we can accommodate that to....
i
Mayor Ferre: Are you proffering something voluntarily
something? I can't., you know. What, is it that you are
saying? There is a legal question. You know that the
Commission can't force anything; it has to be voluntarily
proffered.
Mr. Villalobos: We are not asking the Commission to force
upon us anything. We are voluntarily stating....
Mayor Ferre: What is it that you're volunteering? See, I
don't understand what you are volunteering.
Mr. Villalobos: We are stating that garbage collection
would be at such time as is normally picked up during the
day hours. That, this would not be something that, is in the
evenings. We can, if required, put this in a covenant,
running with the land.
Mayor Ferre: Nobody is requiring anything.
Mr. Villalobos: I am offering this.
Mayor Ferre: O.K.
Mr. Whipple: Mr. Mayor, if I may interrupt, it's as if we
are trying to build a building of which we have no plans, no
ideas. We are talking about, a change of zoning. These are
='
the neighbors concerns.
Mayor Ferre: Mr. Whipple, since Carollo is not, here, I
would like to... I know how strongly you feel and how
emotional these things are and I understand. Mrs. Marks has
written what I think is a well drafted letter. I'm using
�-
her letter to ask these questions so we can understand
clearly on the record what it is that they are proffering.
I'm not, saying that, I'm voting for it. I don't think you
should assume anything, which you sometimes do a little bit
too quick.
Mr. Whipple: No, except, that we were getting into specifics
of an individual and not, what could happen to a piece of
property that, would be generally zoned commercial.
Mayor Ferre: Fine, I understand your position. You don't,
sit, up here. You don't, vote. We're going through this
j
process. I need to understand what, the answers to Mrs.
Marks' valid point,, should this Commission pass it. I want,
for this to be on the record. Do you understand?
Mr. Whipple: Yes, sir.
Mayor Ferre: Thank you, sir.
Mr. Whipple: Mr. Mayor.
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sl 70 November 15, 1984
W]
Mayor Ferre:
something?
Mr. Whipple. Now, you were going to proffer
Mr. Villalobos: I already did, Mr. Mayor.
Mayor Terre: No, you addressed half of it. You didn't,
address where the trucks enter.
Mr. Villalobos: Well, we'll have it in the back, of course,
we're not going to have it in the front.
Mayor Ferre: By the back you mean along 16th?
Mr. Villalobos: About 16th, that is correct.
Mayor Ferre: There is no entrance on 16th. The entrance
would be on 22nd. So, how could they enter 16th?
Mr. Villalobos: Excuse me, I beg your pardon, you are
totally correct. We would have to put, it either at one of
the sides of the entrances of S.W. 22nd Avenue.
Mayor Ferre: So, what you're saying is you are proffering
this, as I understand it.
Mr. Villalobos: Yes, sir.
Mayor Ferre: In your words, so I don't want to....
Mr. Villalobos: You have my word, sir.
Mayor Ferre: No, not your word, it, has to be in your words.
Mr. Villalobos: In my words and in addition to that you
have my word that, it would be in writing.
Mayor Ferre: Thank you, but what, is it that you are
proffering so that I can understand it.
Mr. Villalobos: I am proffering, pursuant to my client's
instructions, that the garbage is going to be picked up in
the late hours of the day and it would be somewhat between
the front, facing 22nd Avenue or the side of the building,
which would be 16th Street.
Mayor Ferre: But you see, there is no entrance to the
property on 16th Street, so that is a problem.
Mr. Villalobos: Lot number one is facing 16th Street, so
there would be at least an entrance to 16th Street.
Mayor Ferre: So what you are saying is that the trucks
would have to enter through lot number one. Is that what
you are saying?
Mr. Villalobos: See, this would be one, two, and three,
which we are asking now.
Mayor Ferre: Where would the trucks enter? Mrs. Marks is
asking a simple question.
Mr. Villalobos: It, would be from 22nd Avenue and if
granted, which would be lot 3 does have access to the
street.
Mayor Ferre: It would come in on 16th on lot, 3.
Mr. Villalobos: That is correct, sir.
sl 71 November 15, 1984
t,
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Mayor Ferre: Again, the question is, as I understand, when
you get, into 16th Street, there is no entrance to this
through 16th Street, the way you've been requesting it.
Mr. Villalobos: I don't believe that would be the case,
sir, because if we do have a building covering lots 1, 2,
and 3, that would be one unit. It, would not be three
separate buildings, therefore, there is or there would be an
entrance through 22nd Avenue and an entrance through the lot
number 3 through S.W. 16th Street, which is ours.
Mayor Ferre: But you see, I think the problem that is
that..... U en, you're really getting into the residential
community. See, your argument, up until now has been that,
22nd is a vehicular, heavily trafficked avenue. Therefore,
it, is in effect, already non residential in nature. But you
can't say that about, 16th Street. You are going against
your own argument.
Mr. Villalobos: No, sir, I think I have presented myself
wrongly. I beg your pardon. If we're saying that, we are
requesting for lots 1, 2, and 3. In that lots 1, 2, and 3,
we would build one building. Certainly, we must accommodate
garbage pick-up somewhere. To us, it, would be best to have
it, in the front, like many other businesses have it, along
S.W. 8th Street, entrance through the front into lots either
1 or lot, 2.
Mayor Ferre: Now I understand. In other words, what you are
saying is that you would enter from 22nd Avenue into lots 1
and 2.
Mr. Villalobos: That is correct, sir.
Mayor Ferre: O.K., I misunderstood, then. Now I
understand. Thank you. The next, one is nine, which is
rodent control for supermarket and bakery premises. I think
that is another valid concern. Obviously, if you have food
in the supermarket, that brings rats in a residential
neighborhood.
Mr. Villalobos: Mr. Mayor, I think we already covered that.
We're talking about light commerces. We're talking about,
boutiques and things; we're not talking about commerces that
would bring out rats and so on and so forth.
Mayor Ferre: You are saying that there won't be any
supermakets and bakeries on the premises.
Mr. Villalobos: That is correct, sir.
Mayor Ferre: You are proffering that, also.
Mr. Villalobos: Yes, sir. I stated before that there would
be small convenience stores, clothing stores, and boutiques.
Mayor Ferre: Item ten, -I'm just, going down the list here.
Item ten is all night security lights would shine into the
yards of homes on both 16th Street, and 16th Terrace.
Mr. Villalobos: I believe, sir that is covered by the
statutes and local ordinances. I don't know there is any
commerce or small business in Dade County that allow lights
without covers that would shine into bedroom windows and
other type of windows. This is already covered by an
ordinance. We would place our security lights in such a
manner that they would be directed to -and now a days we do
have such facilities- towards specific areas, without,
shining to windows and so forth.
sl
72 November 15, 1984
Mayor Ferre: That's going to be part, of the covenant?
Mr. Villalobos: Of course, sir.
Mayor Ferre: Then next is item 11, a two story structure
would be an eyesore and invade the privacy of the
surrounding homes. Tell me what happens up on the second
floor of the structure. Are those shops too?
Mr. Villalobos: Yes, sir, that is our proposal. Of course,
I would entirely disagree with that.. We don't, want to be
looking into anybody's privacy and certainly I don't think
that a two-story building is an eyesore anywhere, because in
Dade County we do have plenty of buildings that are way
above two stories and are not eyesores.
Mayor Ferre: Item 12 is environmental changes would occur
with the removal of the fruit and other trees now on lots 4
and 5, since these trees and houses would be removed and
replaced by parking lots.
Mr. Villalobos: Sir, there are no trees there.
Mayor Ferre: In lots 4 and 5.
Mr. Villalobos: We don't, have anything in 1, 2, and 3 that
we're talking about. There's no trees there.
Mayor Ferre: There are no trees in 1, 2, and 3. The trees
are in 4 and 5.
Mr. Villalobos: No, sir.
Mayor Ferre: They are not the subject of this....
Mr. Villalobos: Of course, we would put sufficient
amenities there as greenery that would do with what we have
there, which is....
Mayor Ferre: That, is something that you have to also
delineate that in your covenant.
Mr. Villalobos: Certainly, and not, only that, but we would
submit, to the Planning Department the appropriate plans and
so forth for what, we have there.
Mayor Ferre: Item 13 is boutique and professional offices
report absolutely no guarantee of the types of use, for
example, 24 hour convenience stores could be put there,
noisy equipment,, shops, air compressors, electric saws,
obnoxious odors, bars, loud music into the early hours of
the night.
Mr. Villalobos: We have no intent to do that, and I'm
repeating myself.
Mayor Ferre: You have no intent of putting....
Mr. Villalobos: Electric saws or air compressors....
Mayor Ferre: ....electric saws, obnoxious odors, air
compressors, repair shops, bars, or loud music into the
early morning.
Mr. Villalobos: ....bars, drunks, or anything like that.
Mayor Ferre: You would, of course, cover that in your
covenant; is that correct?
Mr. Villalobos: That is correct.
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73 November 15, 1984
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Mayor Ferre: Fourteen, granting this variance would be
precedent setting for all those on 16th Street and so on. I
don't think you can argue much with that one.
Mr. Villalobos: So has S.W. 8th Street and Brickell Avenue.
Mayor Ferre: I'm not saying that it, hasn't. I'm just
saying that Mrs. Marks says that, this would set, a precedent,
and there is no question that it would set precedent,.
Mr. Villalobos: That might, be so.
Mayor Ferre: This is spot zoning, right smack in the middle
of a residential community and it would set precedent.
Mr. Villalobos: Progress has made precedents in the
history... Yes, sir, that might, be so, and I fully agree to
that. Progress has always made precedents in the history
throughout the world, especially in Miami.
Mayor Ferre: Fifteen, this application is a repeating of
previous years for the same property for increase use, which
would be detrimental to the neighborhood. Others have been
denied this use before by the planning board. There is no
question that, is true. In other words, there has been
previous attempts to rezone along 22nd Avenue that have been
turned down. There is no question that this would be....
Mr. Villalobos: Again, I can answer that, sir. There is a
project, now existing in N.W. South River Drive that. I
believe was before the Commission and the board six separate
occasions, turned it down, and I came in here and prevailed,
because I think that, today, even the neighbors that, first
said that those were detrimental....
a�
Mayor Ferre: You were the attorney on that.
si
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Mr. Villalobos: I was the attorney of record. At, one point
in time, I believe that it, was Mr. Traurig that, had
x
attempted and failed. We do good projects there.
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Mayor Ferre: The next one is 16, designating this area as
commercial would be the breakdown of the traditional, long-
standing character of the neighborhood. That goes with that
discussion too. Seventeen, when a purchaser buys a Koine in
``.
this particular neighborhood, he or she should be able to
rely in good faith on the master plan and set forth by the
�.'
City of Miami pertaining the zoning and use of properties.
This proposed spot, zoning is a variance with the master plan
of the City of Miami. That's true, as stated by Mr.
Whipple, at which time he recommended this variance not be
approved and I agree. It would be a variance with the
w:
master plan, that's why we have zoning laws and we have
hearings is because master plans are not chiseled in stone,
and they can be changed . So that one I disagree with Mrs.
�.
Marks. Eighteen, we are looking at the zoning board support
our neighborhood to protect us from the intrusion of a
shopping center. That's true. The zoning board and the
�,..
Commission have the final say on these things and we are the
ones that would make that decision. Lastly, Mrs. Marks says
1;
she has no objection to the construction of single family,
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but, would be unalterably opposed to the flagrant attempt at
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spot, zoning. Spot zoning, it is, Mrs. Marks. You are right,
about that. I'm satisfied that these questions that Mrs.
p
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Marks posed have been answered. What is the will of this
�
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Commission? Or are there further questions?
INAUDIBLE BACKGROUND COMMENTS NOT ENTERED INTO THE PUBLIC
r.
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RECORD.
sl 74 November 15, 1984
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Mayor Ferre: Come to the record. The reason why these
questions must be put on the record is that it leaves the
legislative intent.
Mrs. Butburger: I am Mrs. Butburger; I live at 2250 S.W.
16th Street. I would like to know what he means by a
convenience store. Convenience store is a grocery store,
milk, other things like that, that is a convenience store,
but that, is like having a market..
Mr. Villalobos: No, sir, it isn't a market. I believe that,
a convenience store is something that, will be convenient, to
the lady, that would be convenient to the people that are
here.
Mayor Ferre: Does it, sell food?
Mr. Villalobos: If I perhaps used the word convenience is
because I was instructed by my client to use the convenience
store. No, I already stated that we would not sell food.
What we are talking is light, stores. We talked about
clothing and we talked about, a boutique, so on and so forth.
I already said that, sir.
Mayor Ferre: You are talking about non-food quick shops.
_
Mr. Villalobos: That is correct, sir. Perhaps not as good
as Coconut, Grove, but something to that, effect.
Mayor Ferre: I understand; are there further questions?
j'
What is the will of this board?
"!
Mr. Perez: How many persons, Mr. Mayor, do we have here in
!�
favor and how many against?
Mayor Ferre: This morning I think we counted fifteen. I
have a feeling these are steadfast, neighbors and they are
all here. Raise your hands again, those that, are opposed,
:.
the same fifteen. Who are for?
Mr. Villalobos: I'm going to be talking, t
g g g, asking .he people,
3(
excuse me a minute....
3.,
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INAUDIBLE BACKGROUND COMMENTS NOT ENTERED INTO THE PUBLIC
RECORD.
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Mayor Ferre: We have the right to ask a question and you
can't, deny us that, right.
INAUDIBLE BACKGROUND COMMENTS NOT ENTERED INTO THE PUBLIC
RECORD.
Mr. Villalobos: If the lady allows me, I listened to them.
t:
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Mayor Ferre: Let, me run the meeting. I'd like to have a
show of hands of those people that, are for this project, and
a
then I will ask where they live. Show of hands of who is
?>
for the project. Counselor, don't confuse the issue,
`
please. Let me run the meeting. I want to know who is here
in favor of what is being proposed. Raise your hands so I
h
can see who is for. You confused the issue, counselor. Who
is for? Twenty, of the twenty that, raised your hands, how
many you of live in the neighborhood? COMMENTS IN SPANISH.
8
How many of you live in that, area? COMMENTS IN SPANISH.
f,
There is the answer. There are 22 for, of which 11 or 12
t.i
live in the area. How many of you live within the circle?
Three. COMMENTS IN SPANISH. Seven. It doesn't matter, you
'3
know, it, doesn't, matter one way or the other. We don't vote
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that, way around here. Let, the record reflect, that there
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sl 75 November 15, 1984
0
were 15 opposed who live in
for, of which 12 live in the
within the circle marked.
microphone is available for
COMMENTS IN SPANISH.
0
the neighborhood; 22 that, are
neighborhood, of which 6 live
If you want to speak, the
you to make a statement,
Mrs. Brindley: All the people who oppose this project are
living in the circle.
Mayor Ferre: I understand that. The record so states.
Furthermore, if you would look up at the map, all the people
that, are in red, 28 lots are in red. I understand that.
Mrs. Brinkley: I'd like to say this morning, when the
meeting was supposed to me, Mr. Perez didn't have anybody
here. Now suddenly he has 12 or 15 people. I do not, know
why is this.
Mayor Ferre: Because he went, out and got them. But, that's
fair; there's nothing wrong with that.
Mrs. Brinkley: That's what I wanted to point out.
Mayor Ferre: That's not against the law. He has the right,
to do that.
Mr. Perez (Applicant): If I may, I'd like to make a point.
Mayor Ferre: We need to come to a conclusion on this.
Mr. Perez (Applicant.): I'd like to make a point that, no
shopping center, no area of business makes a living from the
people that are directly adjacent to that, place. There is a
circle in that area, but I think that is perhaps a
limitation, because you'll find that, a lot, of people travel
more.
Mayor Ferre: No, it's not a limitation. It's the law.
Mr.Perez (Applicant): It's the law. I'm not going against
the law, but my point is a valid one. That, people within,
from outside that particular area also benefit, and also do
their shopping in the area and that, is something to be
considered also.
Mr. Humberto Gonzalez: COMMENTS I14 SPANISH.
Mr. Aurelio Perez-Lugones (TRANSLATING FOR MR. GONZALEZ):
My name is Humberto Gonzalez. I live in 2225 S.W. 16th
Street, just across from this parcel. I have been 20 years
in this country where they know me, where many of those who
are sitting here know me, where I know that many of them
don't live in the area, and they have come over here just, to
make a group to raise their hands. I have committed the
mistake of building a house with my sweat next, to a
convenient, store, a small grocery, where every day, where I
am suffering every day because that is more than a
convenience store, it's like a bar, where people drink every
day. I get tired from calling the police many times.
Sometimes they come; sometimes they don't. Some people
drink in the parking area because the owner of the store
also likes to drink, and as he likes to drink there is
always a group over there that likes to drink. Because of
that reason, I don't, want to make a second mistake again of
having a shopping center across from where my house is,
where I want, to live in peace. I built my house with my own
effort and I want to live in peace. Sometimes we say
shopping, we don't, say a grocery, we talk about other type
of stores. You know that, once it is built, it is either a
grocery or shopping or whatever. It, doesn't matter. When
sl
76 November 15, 1984
it becomes commercial, if my next, door neighbor wants to put
a convenience store or a fruit stand, he can do it.
Therefore, my recommendation is no shopping.
j
Mr. Villalobos: May I move that the question be called,
sir, because we are going to call the cops on those people
too. We don't want any drunks in that area. We are going
to invest money there. We don't want, any people that drink
and make noise and so on and so forth. Make the question be
called.
Mayor Ferre: Counselor, you can't call the question because
you don't serve on this body, and secondly, there is no
motion.
Mr. Villalobos: I move, I just moved.
Mayor Ferre: You can't move it. It, has to be moved by
somebody in this Commission. That's what I'm trying to get,
one way or the other, is an action by this body.
Mr. Perez: Mr. Manager, could we take an action about the
complaint, of Mr. Humberto Gonzalez? He has a complaint of
some people drinking beer in the neighborhood. He said that
he had called the Police Department several times and he had
not received any action. Could we take a strong action on
that complaint?
Mr. Gary: Yes, we can, but what he said was that he calls
the police and sometimes they come and sometimes they don't.
But we will address that problem.
Mr. Perez: I would like to have a personal report. Who'll
be your assistant, in charge of this issue, Mr. Eads?
'
Mr. Gary: Yes.
f'
Mr. Perez: COMMENTS IN SPANISH.
Mayor Ferre: Again, we've heard testimony. We've asked
questions. We now need to act either in agreement with the
board or opposed to it. What is the will of this
Commission?
Mr. Perez: Mr. Mayor, I was in this neighborhood yesterday.
They are constructing that, tract. At, this time, I was
asking also about what they have right on the corner, where
they have all the equipment and storage there. I think that
for example, property 2230 and 2240 that I think represents
lots 4 and 5, I never support anything in that location at,
this time. I think it is residential. It is occupied this
time. But we have a first reading today. We are pending
for a second reading, would be the final decision. Anyhow,
I would like to move to approve lots 1, 2, and 3 just
pending for a second reading to honor the petition in that
way.
a
Mayor Ferre: We have a motion on the floor, I assume with
41
all the stipulations. Commissioner Perez, with all the
stipulations?
Mr. Perez: Yes.
Mayor Ferre: We have a motion. Is there a second? Is
there a second with all the stipulations that, are proffered?
Mr. Plummer: Mr. Mayor, with the right to vote against the
motion, I will second it for the purposes of discussion.
sl 77 November 15, 1984
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Mayor Ferre: All right, under discussion, the Chair
recognizes Commissioner Plummer.
Mr. Plummer: I would have discussed it, before, except that.
I didn't know that was going to be the motion. I want, to
tell you exactly where I am. I pretty much am where you
were before on lots 1 and 2. Lots 1 and 2 were previously
commercial. They existing there, conforming or non-
conforming, there was a filling station there. My only
concern, even for voting for lots 1 and 2 is to the south
side of 2, my concern would be for that neighbor and I can't
see the lot, number.
Mr. Whipple: 21.
Mr. Plummer: Mr. Whipple, what: would be the set back from
that property? Is it at least ten feet?
Mr. Whipple: It would be five feet for the first, twelve
feet of building height, and then a set back of I believe 63
degrees from that point.
Mr. Plummer: Would that equate to about ten feet?
Mr. Whipple: For the first story it's only about five feet.
You might get somewhere between five and ten....
Mr. Plummer: They've indicated a second floor.
Mr. Whipple: Probably a little bit less than ten on the
second floor.
Mr. Plummer: Where I'm at, just so everybody would know
where I'm coming from. I too, feel as I said at the last
hearing, that, this not, immediately, but there is change and
change is going to come. It is no longer a quiet, little
residential street that it was prior. There is no parking
on that street. It, is 40 miles an hour and people are
whizzing up and down that street; there. are no ifs, ands,
and buts about it. I would look favorably with the
restrictions placed on lots 1 and 2, but I cannot vote for
3, 4, or 5.
Mr. Villalobos: I withdraw 3, sir. I'll take 1 and 2.
Mr. Whipple: We might have a problem with that, depending
upon the Law Department, a minimum petition to be filed of
this file is 200 feet, frontage or 40,000 square feet. The
removal of 3 drops the 200 feet of frontage, does not have
40,000 and I would have to leave it to the Law Department as
to what, it is would be within the purview to grant, less than
those minimums established by the zoning ordinance.
Mr. Plummer: The Law Department says they need about a five
to ten minute break to get the answer of Mr. Whipple.
Mr. Dawkins: Before we move on, Mr. Whipple, individuals in
the group have said this is spot zoning. I mean that is the
accusation that they made.
Mr. Whipple: Including the Planning Department.
Mr. Dawkins: In the event that, we vote in the positive, can
they go to court, and withhold everything?
Mr. Whipple: Even though they call me the Dinner Key
lawyer, I don't, believe I can respond to that. That's
strictly conjecture and opinion, personally.
sl 78 November 15, 1984
Mr. Dawkins: All right, I'll go back and try to break it
down where it will not be conjecture and it, will not be a
hell of a problem for you to answer. Will you ask the City
Attorney, sir, if you answer that for me and then whatever
he tells you, I'll take from you.
Mr. Whipple:
Department.
Mr. Dawkins:
you, sir.
I'll be glad to refer it to the Law
No, no, you ask him. I'd like to know from
Mr. Bob Clark: We have no problem with any administrator in
the City of Miami making any administrative decision, if
that administrator feels qualified to do so.
Mr. Plummer: Boy, oh boy! That means all the legal
opinions we've had for the last ten years are now null and
void.
Mr. Whipple: I believe that, of course I believe Mr. Clark
would agree that, anybody can file a suit. The perimeters of
which they'd file a suit, whether the court the decide this
to be spot zoning, as we suggest or not, is of course the
court's decision, but. I'm sure that could be an avenue of
pursuit of litigation against, the Commission's actions.
Mr.
Clark: The Law Department, concurs in that, decision.
Mr.
Plummer: Anybody with $27 can file a law suit.. You
don't
have to have a basis, just, have $27.
Mr.
Dawkins: Mr. Mayor, I'll abide by the rule and wait
until
they are finished.
Mr.
Plummer: Don't confuse it with the facts.
Mr.
Clark: Let, me get it clear that right now, you are only
asking for lots 1 and 2. Is that correct, Mr. Villalobos?
You
withdrew 3, but the motion was only 1 through 4, that
Mr.
Perez made.
a
Mr.
Villalobos: I have been so instructed by my clients,
sir.
Mr.
Clark: No, he said 1 through 4. Am I correct, Mr.
Perez?
Mr.
Perez: 1 through 3.
Mr.
Clark: 1, 2, and 3.
Mr.
Perez: Yes, but I think Commissioner Plummer made an
amendment.
Mr.
Clark: And right now it's only 1 and 2.
Mr.
Plummer: No, sir, I did not make an amendment. I told
you
exactly where I was coming from.
z
Mr. Clark: That's what I want to get clear, as to whether
;$ or not Commission....
a
Mr. Plummer: My understanding is that based on the comments
I made, Mr. Villalobos immediately jumped to his seat and
withdrew 3, 4, and 5. That, under consideration presently,
r
and Mr. Whipple's concern is lots 1 and 2 sufficient square
footage to make the application valid. We would like from
the Dinner Key Bar Association a legal opinion.
f
x
,.. sl 79 November 15, 1984
Mr. Clark: No, the City Attorney will give you that in
about five or ten minutes.
1 Mr. Plummer: So then we will hold everything in abeyance
until you are ready to answer.
j AT THIS POINT THIS ITEM WAS MOMENTARILY DEFERRED
$ WHILE THE CITY ATTORNEY DELIBERATED.
------------------------------------------------------
26. INSTRUCT PLANNING DEPT. TO CONSIDER AMENDMENT TO ZONING
ORD. ZI-84-14 "CHANGE OF USE IN CONVENIENCE
ESTABLISHMENTS" TO INCLUDE TRAVEL AGENCIES.
------------------------------------------------------------
Mayor Ferre: Mr. Whipple, can we take up item 12?
Mr. Whipple: Yes, sir, representing the building
department, we have Joseph Genuardi, regarding this appeal
of the Acting Zoning Administrator, Mr. Genuardi. Then, I
will follow him.
Mayor Ferre: We can't take up item 12?
Mr. Whipple: No, he's right, here, Mr. Mayor. I'm sorry; I
just, wanted to introduce him.
Mayor Ferre: Wait, a minute, but, the question, I guess, is
to the Clerk or no, who sets the agenda around here anyway?
Mr. Alvarez, the question is is this on the 3: 30 agenda or
could we take it up at this time?
Mr. Gary: You can take it, up.
Mayor Ferre: We can take it up. It's not a public hearing.
Go ahead, Mr. Genuardi.
i
Mr. Joseph Genuardi: Good afternoon, I'm Joseph Genuardi,
- ?
Acting Zoning Administrator with the Fire Rescue and
Inspection Services Department.. I'm appealing the decision
of the zoning board, which approved an appeal of my
_
interpretation of the zoning ordinance. I feel that the
members of the board have voted in favor of the appellants,
did so without addressing the real issue of my
interpretation. The issue whether a travel agency, which is
not permitted or permissible in the Grove Isle area, which
is zoned RG-3, general residential, could replace an
existing tennis shop. The reasoning of the appellant was
that the tennis shop was a non -conforming use and as such,
under subsection 2104.5v of the zoning ordinance tax may be
replaced with another nonconforming use. The tennis shop
was allowed in 1981, as a convenience establishment for the
residents of Grove Isle in conjunction with a permitted
tennis facility. The tennis shop was not, a permitted use
under the R-5 zoning designation of the old ordinance, but
was allowed as an accessory use. If you read the minutes of
fi
the zoning board meeting, you'll see that they did not
jl
follow the counsel of the assistant city attorney. That, the
issue was whether the use was allowed under the zoning
ordinance and not, whether they felt, it was not an
objectionable use and therefore could be allowed. The
zoning ordinance in specific under article 20, section 2003,
on what, uses are permitted or permissible by special permit
as an accessory use. If we were to agree with the
appellants that, the tennis shop is a non conforming use,
then this would defeat the purpose of allowing only
convenience establishments as accessory uses to residential
sl 80 November 15, 1984
w
a '
'd
i
0 0
or office use structures. Allowing a travel agency to
replace the tennis shop would set a precedent detrimental to
the residential areas. It could lead in the future to
someone using the same reasoning to another existing
convenience establishment, which may be first allowed in a
commercial zone and request that it be replaced by another
more objectionable operation. This could be a repair shop,
automobile shop, or whatever is allowed in that commercial
district. This is not the intent of the ordinance. A
travel agency is not permitted in an RG-3 zone. It is first,
permitted in the RO-3 zone. It is not the type of business
that can operate mainly with the business generated by
department or hotel residents. Under the present, zoning
ordinance, certain accessory uses specifically listed are
allowed in this area, which is zoned RG-3. A travel agency
is not one of them and was not under the previous zoning
ordinance. A travel agency is first, permitted, as I said,
in the RO-3 district, which is a more liberal district,
therefore, cannot be allowed in the more restrictive
district. If the feeling is that, this type of use should be
allowed as an accessory use, then the proper procedure would
be to amend the zoning ordinance to include it in the
article 20 section 2003 of the text,. To summarize the
issue, is a travel agency allowed as a permitted or
accessory use in an RG-3 zone; and the answer has to be no.
I therefore urge you to overturn the decision of the zoning
board and uphold my interpretation. Thank you.
Mr. Whipple: Mr. Mayor, members of the Commission, the
Planning Department, concurs with the interpretation given by
the Acting Zoning Administrator on this item. As was
indicated by him, we feel this is a precedent, of opening the
door to allow any use, which may be said to relate to
occupants of an apartment structure or an apartment, zoning
to have any type of commercial activity. The zoning
ordinance is very specific in 2020, establishing
specifically what convenience establishments are permitted.
A travel agency is not one of them. Offices are not
allowed, except in specified districts and that's delineated
in the schedule of district regulations. So, on that, basis,
we're supporting the Zoning Administrator and would request
that, you likewise overrule the decision of the zoning board.
Mayor Ferre: I'm a little puzzled as to why this is before
US* If it's not an allowed use and it's against the law,
then why are you here?
Mr. Whipple: The ordinance allows an appeal process.
Mayor Ferre: Appeal what?
Mr. Whipple: The applicants.. whichever have requested the
permission of a travel agency feel that because there was a
tennis shop there, that a travel agency should be allowed.
They went, to the Zoning Administrator and he said no, that
is not a convenience establishment allowed under the zoning
ordinance. They are appealing his decision.
Mayor Ferre: But. doesn't it need to go to a court of law
rather? I mean, this is not a court of law.
Mr. Plummer: No, this is the appeal procedure.
Mr. Whipple: This is the appeal procedures set forth by the
zoning ordinance as to a decision by the Zoning
Administrator.
Mayor Ferre: Does the zoning code say that they can have a
travel agency, yes or no?
sl 81 November 15, 1984
Mr. Whipple: No, sir.
Mayor Ferre: Mr. City Attorney?
a,
Mr. Bob Clark: It does not.
!
Mayor Ferre: Can they have a travel, under that zoning, can
they have a travel agency?
Mr. Clark: No.
Mayor Ferre: Then what are we talking about?
Mr. Clark: This is part of the process, which is necessary
for them to go to the circuit court.
Mayor Ferre: I see, so then you can go to court,. Is that
it? O.K., I got you.
Mr. Robert Freeman: Mr. Mayor, if I may, my name is Robert
Freeman. I represent the occupant of the space, who is
seeking to open up a travel agency within the retail shops
over at Grove Isle. I totally disagree and the zoning
appeal board disagreed with what staff is telling you now.
The issue before the zoning appeal board was whether or not,
within the definitions of accessory, convenience uses, a
travel agency, which occupies 300 square feet of space, out
of a total project, of a million square feet., is an allowable
use. It's clearly incidental. It's a very small part of
the project, out there. It has nothing to do with physical
structures. It's a question of use. The definitional
aspects of accessory use within the code have leeway for
those uses that are clearly accessory and convenient and
incidental to major uses. The staff takes the position that
you can only have as an accessory use those very few items
x'.
that. are listed specifically in section 2.003.7.3 of the
code. But, that's a false interpretation. There are many
references in the zoning code which talk about, the fact, that
±;
there can be other accessory uses, other than those specific
a;
uses enumerated. In that, regard, we have first, of all,
under section 3602 of the code a general definition of an
accessory use. It says an accessory use or structure is a
use or structure customarily incidental and subordinate to a
principal use. In this particular case, we are seeking to
have a travel agency open up next, door to the hotel, which
is the Grove Isle Hotel. Clearly, incidental to the uses
out there and clearly accessory to uses of hotel and 500 and
some odd apartments in Grove Isle. It's not a principle use
for Grove Isle. It's an accessory use. You've also got a
grocery store out there, a barber shop, a ladies' wear shop
and a few other accessory and convenience and locations
there. So, firstly, if the staff's interpretation were
correct, there would be no need whatsoever in the code for
section 3602, which gives a general definition of an
accessory use. It, just simply would be those uses that, are
,r
enumerated in the section the staff refers to, which is
2003. In addition, under the schedule of district,
regulations, Grove Isle is in an RG-3 area. Under RG-3
area, you are also permitted as accessory uses, those uses
defined in RG-2. RG-2 use, under accessory use, says that,
accessory uses which are customarily accessory and clearly
incidental to permitted uses, is an allowable accessory use.
}
In addition, in RG-3 you are allowed some office space.
Furthermore in section 2001 of the code, it specifically
:
makes reference that where their use is not specifically
identified in the zoning ordinance, that the general
character of those listed should be referred to in making a
determination as to whether or not, the y are permitted
*` -
accessory uses. This is exactly what the zoning
Y Y B appeal
board did, they looked at the situation, they determined
sl 82 November 15, 1984
that a travel agency occupying 300 square feet, of space in
the Grove Isle complex is an incidental and accessory use to
the hotel operation out there and for the convenience of the
500 and some odd apartments out there and determine that
it's an acceptable use within the general definitions of
accessory and convenience use.
Mr. Dawkins: Mr. Mayor, Mr. Manager, under section 3001,
status of administrative decisions, time limits on appeal,
number one, I'd like to know why did they become necessary
to have a zoning administrator and then I want to read to
you from section 3001. It, says:
"Decisions of the Zoning Administrator or the
Director of Planning shall be deemed final, unless
within no more of 15 days of the date such
decision was rendered, a notice of appeal is
filed."
My concern with that is what, about, the private citizen who
does not know the procedure, cannot, hire a lawyer, and does
not, know that, if he does not appeal within 15 days these
Zoning Administrators' decision is final?
Mr. Gary: First of all, I think, every American citizen is
in a position of having to be familiar with the law when it,
affects them. Ignorance of the law is no excuse. However,
when the Zoning Administrator makes a decision, Commissioner
Dawkins, he is informed a* that time, that he has the right
to appeal.
Mr. Dawkins: O.K., I'm going to read to you something else
here that, says:
"As you are aware, Commissioner Dawkins, City
Ordinance 8500 provides that appeals from
administrative decisions shall be filed within 15
days of the date such decision was rendered.
Failure of an aggrieved property owner to appeal
an administrative decision within the 15 day
period, effectively wipes out any rights an
aggrieved party might have in regards to that
particular matter."
What is of specific importance is the fact that the
administrators of the zoning code of the City of Miami have
taken this principle one step further to the effect that if
j;
any matter affecting any district in the City of Miami is
ti
not appealed, that is any decision by the zoning
administrator, is not appealed or that a negative decision
is reached by either the zoning board or City Commission,
then that issue is forever foreclosed from being appealed,
according to what we've got here. For example, a hotel
wishes to place an accessory use to the hotel, a travel
agency. A travel agency is not permitted accessory use,
even though it, is customarily found in most hotels around
the City of Miami. If a hotel in Brickell Avenue desired to
seek a permit for a travel agency and denied by the Zoning
Administrator and no appeal is taken from that, decision,
then all hotels within the City of Miami are permanently
foreclosed from seeking release. Is that, correct?
Y
Mr. Gary: No.
Mr. Whipple: That, is not correct,, Commissioner Dawkins, and
let me start from the end and work backwards. The
presumption is, the assumption, I think, from the statement
you read is that the only hotels that we have in the City of
Miami are in the RG-3 districts. That, is not the case. The
majority, in fact, I would say 95% of our hotels in the City
of Miami are in commercially zoned areas, in commercially
zoned areas including RO districts. Residential office
districts do permit travel agencies as a permitted use, not
just, accessory to a hotel. So, the difference is in our
sl 83 November 15, 1984
more restrictive residential areas, which in this instance
do permit the hotel units, the convenience establishments
that, are permitted in these restricted residential districts
f
are specifically set forth in the zoning ordinance and
travel agency is not one of them.
Mr. Dawkins: What is one of them. How many are there?
Mr. Whipple: Referring to 2003.7.3, the listing is,
apothecary bar, barber shop, beauty shop, laundry and dry
cleaning agency, news-stand, physician or dentist office,
restaurant and sundry shop.
Mr. Dawkins: That's nine.
Mr. Whipple: Did I say it was eight?
Mr. Dawkins: I'm asking you.
Mr. Whipple: I didn't count them as I was reading, there's
nine.
Mr. Dawkins: Because we didn't write the tenth, travel
agency, then it's illegal.
Mr. Whipple: It is not, permitted.
Mr. Dawkins: If you are going to play semantics, the same
thing.
Mr. Perez: What is the zoning board's recommendation?
Mr. Whipple: They reversed the decision of the zoning
administrator.
Mr. Genuardi: The zoning board voted in favor of the land
z
use as a travel agency.
Mr. Plummer: Let, me ask a question, is there anyone here or
anyone on record that, is opposed to this? Were notices sent
out?
Ai
Mr. Whipple: They were for the appeal, yes.
Al
541
Mr. Plummer: Were there any objectors?
Mr. Perez-Lugones: This type of appeal, which is something
completely different; this is the first time ever that you
see this kind of appeal. There were no notices sent, to
property owners other than those involved in the appeal.
Mr. Plummer: My question is still the same.
r
Mr. Perez-Lugones: No notices were sent.
Mr. Plummer: Were there any people objecting at the lower
level, the upper level, the middle level.
Mr. Perez-Lugones: There are only two parties involved in
zt'
this, Commissioner.
3
Mr. Plummer: Wasn't there a hearing in front, of the zoning
board?
Mr. Perez-Lugones: There was a hearing in front, of the
zoning board....
Mr. Plummer: Did you sent out letters on that?
Mr. Perez-Lugones: No.
sl 84 November 15, 1984
E
Mr. Plummer: You did not.
Mr. Perez-Lugones: Yes.
Mr. Plummer: Objections?
I
Did anybody appear?
Mr. Perez-Lugones: The department.
Mr. Plummer: Besides the department.
Mr. Perez-Lugones: No, nobody.
Mr. Plummer: They get, paid to be there.
Mr. Perez-Lugones: No, nobody.
Mr. Plummer: O.K., did I not hear that there was a petition
signed by some 50 people or residents of the Grove Isle.
Mr. Freeman: Yes, that's correct., in favor of the travel
agency. We could have gotten more but we thought, that would
be a good representation.
Mr. Plummer: I'm going to tell you how I feel about, the
matter. Maybe I'm out of bounds as far as the law is
concerned, Grove Isle is unique in the fact. -and I realize
when you speak to zoning, you have to speak City wide, and
that, is your fear and I understand that. The fear is that
if you give it to Grove Isle, then everyone else is entitled
to it. That's not quite right. It's right to the fact, that
Grove Isle went through a procedure to bring it to this
level, and if anybody else wants to do it, they are going to
go through that procedure and bring it to this level.
Mrs. Dougherty: No.
Mr. Plummer: What do you mean no?
Mrs. Dougherty: What you are doing is interpreting the law
to include travel agencies as an accessory use in that
zoning district and never again is it going to have to come
back.
Mr. Plummer: Why can't we make it then a conditional use?
Mrs. Dougherty: It's not a conditional use. The
application is an interpretation of what, the law is.
Mr. Whipple: That is correct, in carrying it, a step further,
if that's a desire of the Commission to allow travel
agencies, what, have you, then fine, the proper procedure
would be to amend the ordinance. That's what, we have said
all along.
Mr. Plummer: I want, to do both.
Mr. Freeman: Mr. Commissioner, may I add?
Mr. Plummer: No, you've had your bit. You get paid; I got,
elected. That's what, I want to do. I want to do both. I
want to allow it in the Grove Isle. The people that are
going to be affected, obviously are in favor of it. They
want it there. I have no qualms about allowing them to have
it, because it doesn't affect anyone off the island. Now,
changing the ordinance, I think there should be a change in
the ordinance to allow it on an individual basis. Do we
still have conditional uses?
sl
85 November 15, 1984
Mr. Whipple: They are now called special exceptions.
Mr. Plummer: Special exceptions, we could then change the
ordinance to make a travel agency as a special exception to
the ordinance where each individual case has to come before
the Commission. That's where I am. Whatever motion, if a
motion is in order, I'd be happy to make such. Madam City
Attorney, is a motion in order?
Mrs. Dougherty: Yes, sir.
x
Mr. Plummer: If I make a motion to allow... What is my
motion?
Mrs. Dougherty: Your motion would be to affirm....
Mr. Plummer: The action of the zoning board?
Mrs. Dougherty: Correct.
Mr. Plummer: In relation to item 12.
i
Mrs. Dougherty: Right.
Mr. Plummer: Then I follow it, up immediately with another
motion.
Mrs. Dougherty: Yes.
a
Mr. Plummer: All right,.
i
Mayor Ferre: Well, Miss Cooper.
w..
Miss Janet, Cooper: Mr. Mayor, how nice to be here this
afternoon.
..J
Mayor Ferre: Are you speaking on this one too?
Miss Cooper: I would like to briefly give you a moment of
,'
?!
my thoughts on it. The accessory uses....
aj
Mr. Plummer: Wait, a minute, now that you're a lawyer, are
you doing that free? You are giving us your opinion free?
A!
Miss Cooper: Yes.
Mr. Plummer: O.K.
.j:
Mayor Ferre: This is not, per se, Brickell Avenue or for
one of your clients.
Miss Cooper: This is affected by my experience with say,
Brickell Avenue. High rise residential districts have had a
tremendous problem with accessory uses in the building, what,
to allow, what, not to allow, what, is disruptive, what is not,
disruptive, what, brings in traffic, what doesn't. I think
.`
before you start making an individual exception here and an
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individual exception there to start adding to the code,
'r
maybe we need to address the entire thing. Because if it's
a travel agency, why isn't it something else, and why isn't
it something else? So I would just ask, let's look at, the
E-
=
whole thin and I would be more than hap
py, ppy, I'd like to work
=`
`'
on that, with you.
s
Mr. Plummer: So what you are saying is, I move item 12 as
it stands and then that I ask the department to look into
„=
changing the ordinance with your cooperation.
sl 86 November 15, 1984
I
it
Miss Cooper: Well, I don't know if you should go so far as
to say changing the ordinance. I don't, know....
Mr. Plummer: Amending the ordinance.
Miss Cooper: I don't know that, an amendment is necessary,
but review the entire procedure on accessory uses in those
a
districts.
.'
Mr. Plummer: My first, motion on item 12 is to move for
approval in upholding the zoning board.
Miss Cooper: No.
Mr. Plummer: What do you mean no?
Miss Cooper: The zoning board wanted to allow this special
exception that was not permitted in the code.
Mr. Plummer: Oh, I see.
Mr. Gary: No, you can't do that.
Miss Cooper: I think you have a real problem with that,
because then you are asking them to do what is not in
accordance with the code.
Mayor Ferre: I don't, want anybody to get, the wrong idea,
but. I'm with Janet.
Miss Cooper: Thank you.
f
Mayor Ferre: I think Janet has a valid point. In other
words, my personal position in this is I don't object to
what is being questioned here, but it, has to be done in an
j'
orderly way. I don't think we can just pick one out of the
,.°
hat like this. I think it's a valid request that in certain
'
residential communities that they have certain rights that
jperhaps
we have not, addressed. I think the way to do it is
?;
the way that Miss Cooper is recommending. In other words, I
am for what you are trying to do here, for the people who
own the shop, I'm for what you are trying to do, counselor,
but. I think it's got to be done properly. You can't shot-
gun it this way.
{,
Mr. Freeman: May I address that point, Mr. Mayor? What I
am contending is that the code already allows the procedure
that Commissioner Plummer has already talked about. That is
when you talk about, an accessory use that is incidental to a
principle use, then you are taking it, on a case by case
basis.
Mayor Ferre: How can you say that a travel agency in Grove
Isle is an incidental use to a sports shop?
Mr. Freeman: I'm saying it's incidental to the hotel and to
the project. You have 300 square feet located within a
�,.
retail area that's already designated.
t
Mr. Plummer: Let me tell you another thing. If the zoning
r
administrator had absolutely refused to hear the issue
saying he couldn't hear it, that's one thing. But he
r>>'
didn't. Obviously, there was something within his purview
to consider. He did consider and did deny it. If he has
the reason to deny it, he could have thesame reasons to
approve. Had he said no, I can't, even consider this issue,
that's a different ball game. But, he did consider it and
after consideration, denied it. So obviously, there was
0i`
_
some avenue there that he could have had for approval as
well as denial. That's all I'm....
rt
sl 87 November 15, 1984
Mr. Gary: Yes, but J.L.....
Mr. Plummer: If he had said, "Hey, I can't touch it."
Mr. Gary: He cannot say that, because he has to review those
things that are changes and not conforming uses.
Mr. Genuardi: Mayor, I did deny it to start with, but then
the attorney brought up a section of the code which, if we
considered it, a non -conforming use, it could allow another
non -conforming use. He didn't ask me for an interpretation
whether he could apply for this condition, and I gave him my
interpretation and I said no.
Mayor Ferre: Plummer made a motion that never got a second.
Mr. Perez: I second.
Mayor Ferre: Moved and seconded.
Mr. Ralph Ongie: Would you restate the motion, please?
Mayor Ferre: Plummer, repeat, your motion.
Mr. Plummer: Well, Mr. Mayor, I understand that, I can make
a motion that, says that, this particular item be from one
non -conforming use to another non -conforming use.
INAUDIBLE BACKGROUND COMMENTS NOT ENTERED INTO THE PUBLIC
RECORD.
Mr. Genuardi: We do not consider it, a non -conforming use
because if it is allowed, it, is an accessory use to the
tennis club.
Mayor Ferre: Plummer, you're getting stuck.
Mr. Plummer: No, I'm taking one step forward and three
back.
Mayor Ferre: That's right, that's called getting stuck.
Mr. Plummer: My motion, according to the City Attorney, is
now to read no, forget it.
Mayor Ferre: No, I think Janet Cooper gave you good advice.
I don't know where she went. I think the advice is that,
this has to be done in a procedural proper way and it has to
be done generically rather than a shot -gun basis. In other
words, don't shot -gun it.
Mr. Plummer: Fine, then what, I understand, the only motion
that is in order in spite of what. I want to do, the motion
is that, the Planning Department be instructed to amend the
ordinance to include travel agencies as a special permitted
use.
Mayor Ferre: Now you got, it. Now that has to go through a
procedure. You have to hold public hearings, and I'm going
to appoint Janet to be a....
Mr. Plummer: With the association of Janet Cooper running
the department..
Miss Cooper: I thought we were going to study it and not,
make a determination on the spot that this should be
allowed.
sl
88 November 15, 1984
Mr. Plummer:
consider it,
12
They are going to study it before they
Miss Cooper: No, the motion is to allow it. I'm requesting
a motion to study whether we should allow it.
Mayor Ferre: I don't think that this Commission can just
unilaterally and arbitrarily say allow it. All we're
doing....
Miss Cooper: That's what the motion read.
Mayor Ferre: Plummer, is that your intention?
Mr. Plummer: No, sir.
Mayor Ferre: Tell us what your intention is, so we....
Mr. Plummer: My motion's intent, is to send it, back to study
it, to bring it back to this Commission as an item for
consideration.
Mayor Ferre: That's what I understood. See, you weren't
listening, Miss Cooper.
Miss Cooper: I apologize.
Mayor Ferre: Now it's clear where we are. Is there a
second to that motion?
Mr. Perez: Second.
Mayor Ferre: Now that, is the proper way of doing it and I
think it doesn't open up pandora's box; it, upholds Mr.
Genuardi and the administration's integrity in the process;
and it also allowed an orderly procedure. Is that, correct?
Mr. Plummer: Question, Mr. Whipple, isn't a lounge and a
restaurant an accessory use to a hotel?
Mr. Whipple: Yes, sir, I folded the book up. I believe a
lounge is a special exception in addition to being an
accessory convenience establishment.
Mr. Plummer: I just, wanted it to get in the record, that's
all.
Mayor Ferre: Further discussion? Call the roll.
The following motion was introduced
Commissioner Plummer, who moved its adoption:
MOTION NO. 84-131 1
A MOTION INSTRUCTING THE PLANNING
DEPARTMENT TO CONSIDER AN AMENDMENT TO
THE COMPREHENSIVE ZONING ORDINANCE,
SPECIFICALLY, ZI-84-14 "CHANGE OF USE IN
CONVENIENCE ESTABLISHMENTS" TO INCLUDE
TRAVEL AGENCIES AS A SPECIAL PERMITTED
USE; REQUESTING THAT THE PLANNING
DEPARTMENT STUDY THIS MATTER AND REPORT
BACK TO THE CITY COMMISSION WITH A
RECOMMENDATION AS QUICKLY AND
EXPEDITIOUSLY AS POSSIBLE.
by
Upon being seconded by Commissioner Perez, the motion
was passed and adopted by the following vote-
sl
89 November 15, 1984
AYES: Commissioner Miller J. Dawkins
Commissioner J. L. Plummer, Jr.
Vice -Mayor Demetrio J. Perez, Jr.
k"
Mayor Maurice A. Ferre
NOES: None.
ABSENT: Commissioner Joe Carollo
�I
Mayor Ferre: Mr. Freeman, don't, look so discouraged. You,
in effect, will get your way. It's just, giving you an
opportunity to earn your fee. I apologize to the people who
want the travel agency, but we have to follow the law and
j'
there is an orderly procedure that we must follow. We can't
shot -gun things because somebody wants to do it that way and
they happen to be at the Grove Isle Club. The Grove Isle
Club is very nice, but that's not the way we operate.
Mr. Freeman: I only hope that, they can somehow expedite it
so it doesn't drag until the patient dies.
Mayor Ferre: Let, the record reflect that it is the
intention of this Commission to do and orders the Planning
Department to do this as quickly and expeditiously as
possible.
Mr. Whipple: We understand, Mr. Mayor.
Mr. Plummer: Does that mean January?
Mayor Ferre: We're not, trying to deprive anybody. I think
Commissioner Dawkins brought out a very germane, pertinent.
point. I would support, him, if he wants to make a motion.
I think that, the letter he wrote from attorney Price is
very, very... Is attorney Price here? I think that letter
is very germane. Basically what it says that in effect the
procedure that, we have here is that, once the zoning director
_;..
makes a decision, unless it is appealed, it is final, but, it
#
is not only final for the individual that makes the appeal,
it is final for everybody. That is patently unfair for the
!
project next door, who has not had the opportunity to ask
A.
for the 15 day appeal, since he is not affected and doesn't
care. What Mr. Price is saying... You weren't listening
r!
and neither was I; that's why I read it. What he says is
shocking. Janet,, I want you to listen to this. This is one
of your colleagues, Stanley Price, and here's what he says:
"What is of specific importance is the fact, that
the administrators of the zoning code of the City
of Miami have taken this principle one step
further to the effect that if any matter affecting
any district in this City is not appealed, or that
a negative decision is reached by either the
zoning board or the City Commission, then that
issue is forever foreclosed from being appealed.
5
For example, a hotel wishes to place as an
accessory use to the hotel a travel agency. A
Y
travel agency is not, a permitted accessory use,
even thought, it, is customarily found in most.
hotels. If a hotel in Brickell Avenue desires to
seek a permit for a travel agency and is denied by
L
4"
the City zoning administrator and no appeal is
taken from that decision, all other hotels within
the City of Miami are permanently foreclosed from
seeking similar relief."
N;
I can't believe that's true. If it is true, I think it, is
very wrong.
"This position is in total contravention of all
that, is well established zoning laws that each
4'
case must be determined on its own individual
;n•
�w4
merits. The Supreme Court, of Florida...."
.1.
sl 90 November 15, 1984
And then he goes on to cite law on it, says that you can't
do that.
"I respectfully submit, to you that, it is ill
advised policy to foreclose in the example above
any subsequent, hotel from coming in and making a
viable argument against, the City zoning
administrator's position, the travel agencies must,
not be permitted in hotels."
I don't, know that this is or it not true. I am not, a
lawyer. I'm not saying that Mr. Price is correct.. I am
saying that, if there is any truth to this, I think it is
wrong. I'm totally opposed. I'm very surprised that we're
following that procedure. I think it must be addressed.
Miss Cooper: I didn't, know the premise of the letter or the
beginning of it, and I don't really understand what he is
saying there, but I think that it is something that should
be addressed, and I could have a copy of the letter, I'll be
glad to give you my opinion.
Mayor Ferre: I'll by happy. This is Commissioner Dawkins'
letter.
Mr. Dawkins: Mr. Mayor, I would like to make a motion that
I turn this over to the legal department and let the legal
department respond by all means and give us a legal opinion.
I'll ask for a legal opinion on both of these.
Mayor Ferre: And you will submit that letter at the proper
time....
Mr. Dawkins: Janet, I'm going to have them give you a copy
now.
27. FIRST READING ORDINANCE: CHANGE ZONING CLASSIFICATION:
2210 S.N. 16 ST. & 1600-02 S.Y. 22 AVE. FROM: RS-2/2 TO
CR-1 /7 .
Mr. Plummer: Mr. Mayor, item 4 is ready for an opinion.
Mayor Ferre: We are now on item 4. This has been an all
day affair on item 4. Are we now, what is the legal
opinion.
Mrs. Dougherty: Mr. Mayor, the issue was whether or not you
could delete the third parcel from the application. The
answer is no. The zoning ordinance requires at least, 40,000
square feet or 200 feet of frontage on a major street. This
parcel does not, contain either unless you include lot 3.
The zoning ordinance specifically says you shall not even
consider....
Mayor Ferre: Plummer, it must with lot, 3.
1r. Plummer: Mr. Mayor, Commissioner Perez made a motion.
lis motion is still the prevailing motion. When I seconded
.t, I did it for purposes of discussion, reserving the right,
.o vote against, it. I still reserve that, right. But the
lotion is still on the floor and it's ready for a vote.
layor Ferre: O.K., let's get. Dawkins back here and we will
,ote.
Ir. Plummer: Mr. Mayor, I wish to announce to you it,
loesn't, affect any of the people here, but as I told you
11
91 November 15, 1984
1P
last, night and again this morning, I do have to leave this
evening at 7:00 o'clock. I am going to a City function and
I just, want to put, that on the record once again.
Mayor Ferre: Would somebody advise Commissioner Dawkins
that we're ready for a vote on item 4?
Mr. Villalobos: Mr. Mayor, can I be heard? I was a little
bit premature, since Commissioner Plummer had not said
anything, I did jump the gun, so there was a motion that, I'd
like to be heard on.
Mayor Ferre: The motion was for lots 1, 2, and 3. Perez
made the motion. Plummer seconded the motion for
discussion, reserving his right to vote against, it. Then he
said, "I want to amend it to just 1 and 2."
Mr. Plummer: No, sir, I said the only thing acceptable to
me was 1 and 2.
Mayor Ferre: He said the only thing acceptable to him,
Plummer, was 1 and 2.
Mr. Plummer: So the motion addresses 1, 2, and 3.
Mayor Ferre: Then he said, "Would you give me a legal
opinion?" The City Attorney has ruled that it, cannot, be
done with 3 absent.
Mr. Villalobos: Then I'll stand with 1, 2, and 3.
Mayor Ferre: Are we ready to vote?
Mrs. Dougherty: I'll read the ordinance, Mr. Mayor.
Mayor Ferre: Wait a minute, counselor, do you have anything
else? Did you reserve the right to say something?
Mr. Villalobos: No, that's it, sir, 1, 2, and 3.
Mayor Ferre: Got you, a first reading with stipulations as
made, I'm sorry, with volunteer covenants that must be
submitted by the second reading. Is that correct?
Mr. Whipple: Yes, sir.
Mayor Ferre: Read the ordinance. Call the roll.
AN ORDINANCE ENTITLED -
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE ZONING ATLAS
OF ORDINANCE NO. 9500, THE ZONING
ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF MIAMI, FLORIDA,
BY CHANGING THE ZONING CLASSIFICATION OF
APPROXIMATELY 2210-30-40 SOUTHWEST 16TH
STREET AND APPROXIMATELY 1600-02
SOUTHWEST 22ND AVENUE, MIAMI, FLORIDA,
(MORE PARTICULARLY DESCRIBED HEREIN)
EXCEPTING FROM LOTS 4 AND 5, FROM RS-2/2
ONE FAMILY DETACHED RESIDENTIAL TO CR-
1/7 COMMERCIAL -RESIDENTIAL
(NEIGHBORHOOD) BY MAKING FINDINGS; AND
BY MAKING ALL THE NECESSARY CHANGES ON
PAGE NO. 39 OF SAID ZONING ATLAS MADE A
PART OF ORDINANCE NO. 9500 BY REFERENCE
AND DESCRIPTION IN ARTICLE 3, SECTION
300, THEREEOF; CONTAINING A REPEALER
PROVISION AND A SEVERABILITY CLAUSE.
sl
92 November 15, 1984
I
Was introduced by Commissioner Perez and seconded by
Commissioner Plummer and passed on its first reading by
title by the following vote -
AYES: Commissioner Miller J. Dawkins
Vice -Mayor Demetrio J. Perez, Jr.
Mayor Maurice A. Ferre
NOES: Commissioner J. L. Plummer, Jr.
ABSENT: Commissioner Joe Carollo
The City Attorney read the ordinance into the public
record and stated that copies had been furnished to the City
Commission and that copies were available to the public.
DURING ROLL CALL:
Mayor Ferre: I have the deciding vote on this, ladies and
gentlemen of the neighborhood. Let me explain to you what,
my position is. My position is in concurrence with
Commissioner Plummer. I agree with the fact that, 1 and 2, 3
I cannot, accept. Out of courtesy to the applicant, on this,
since we are missing a Commissioner, this is a first vote on
it, I'm going to be voting so that it, comes back on second
reading. At that time, it is my intention to vote no
against this. I just want it. :clearly understood that I'm
doing this out of courtesy to Commissioner Carollo, who is
sick today and is absent, therefore, this gives him the
opportunity to vote on this matter on second hearing. I
will vote with the majority at this time, fully stating that
on second reading, it is my intention to vote against this.
Mr. Dawkins: Since everyone has declared himself, hold it,
sir, Mr. Villalobos, you yourself volunteered to drop 3.
Mr. Villalobos: That, is correct, sir.
Mr. Dawkins: The City Attorney says you can't drop 3.
Mr. Villalobos: That I cannot?
Mr. Dawkins: Yes, that's what she said. You have a vote
for this in your favor, but you also have people who are
against 3. So this may come up and if you have not made
some arrangements or adjustments to 3, we don't know what
the vote will be.
Mr. Villalobos: That is correct..
Mayor Ferre: In other words, let me concur with my
colleague has said. In my opinion, you are going to lose
this. That's my personal opinion, because I think of this
lot 3 question. I think you have a lot, of work to do with
these neighbors to convince them that you're not the ogre
that, they think you are. Not, you, counselor, your clients
or the project. I think I have already gone on record and
I'm just doing this to keep this project alive until
Commissioner Carollo has the opportunity to vote, but you
already have, I think two negative votes and I don't know
what the third vote is going to be. But you heard what
Dawkins said he just did. That, kind of tells you....
Mr. Villalobos: I want to thank the Commission for the time
I have taken, but I assure the Mayor that we have worked and
will continue to work for the community, like they have
said. Of course, this is not, the first, time that things
have looked gloomy and didn't have bright, because we have
the best of the community at heart. Thank you.
sl 93 November 15, 1984
Mayor Ferre: To Mrs. Marks and to the community, may I give
you some unsolicited advice?
Mrs. Marks: Be my guest, please.
Mayor Ferre: You noticed that I went through your letter
and I tried to extract from these people as much as I could,
not because I'm for the project, but, in case it passes, that
I think you get, as much protection as possible. My advice
to is that you always have a fall back position. I think
you ought, to, those of you like yourself and others in the
neighborhood ought, to sit down with these people and try to
get whatever it is you can best, get, just, in case it passes.
I think you can still get a lot from them.
Mrs. Marks: Mr. Mayor, thank you, I have never met, the
Perez family; I have never heard anything except through the
notes on the tape. But what I did not understand was what
was the vote decision.
Mayor Ferre: The vote was three to one. I voted with the
maker of the motion....
Mrs. Marks: Who was against?
Mayor Ferre: Plummer was against.
Mrs. Marks: Thank you. Mr. Mayor, when will the next,
meeting be held and will the....?
Mr. Plummer: The 20th of December.
Mayor Ferre:
The 20th of December, and Mrs. Marks, so
you
understand again, I have stated that it, is my intention
to
vote against
this project at that time. I voted in
the
affirmative
because my vote, the third vote, was
the
decisive vote in keeping this alive for one more meeting,
while these
people have the opportunity to talk to
the
neighborhood,
number one, and number two to give
the
opportunity to
Commissioner Carollo to vote on the issue.
f
Mrs. Marks:
Will the neighbors be notified when the meeting
41
will be held,
or do we just, take it....?
Mayor Ferre:
No, ma'am, you are notified right, now.
Mrs. Marks:
What, time do we anticipate...?
Mr. Plummer:
Sometime after 9:00 A.M.
Mayor Ferre: No, let's be fair to these people.
Mrs. Marks: We've been here since 9:45, remember that.
Mr. Plummer: I've been here since 8:30.
Mrs. Marks: You are paid; we're not.
Mayor Ferre: But you got elected to do that and they
didn't, so out of fairness to them....
Mr. Dawkins: Mr. Mayor, I'd like to move that we set a time
certain and let this be the first item on the agenda.
Mayor Ferre: This will be the first item on the agenda,
which makes it, at. 10:00 o'clock in the morning.
Mrs. Marks: The first item on December 20th at, 10:00 A.M.
Mayor Ferre: Yes, ma'am.
sl 94 November 15, 1984
10
Mrs. Marks:
Thank you very much. Thank you, gentlemen.
Mayor Ferre: To you, Mr. Perez, I would strongly advice
that you meet, with the neighbors and I would recommend that,
you coordinate it through Mrs. Marks.
Mr. Villalobos: I certainly hope, Mayor, if we bring out
something that might change his mind, would not, be strong -
headed.
Mayor Ferre: I said it is my intention.
Mr. Dawkins: You still may get the Mayor and lose two more.
Mayor Ferre: That's right..
Mr. Villalobos: We had it no in the future, of course.
UNIDENTIFIED SPEAKER: I'd like to thank the Mayor and the
Commissioners.
Tape 10st
------------------------------------------------------------
28. APPROVE IN PRINCIPLE APPLICATION OF NEW CHRISTIAN
HOSPITAL INC. GRANT FOR 150 BED HOSPITAL; STATE INTENT
OF CITY COMMISSION IF CITY IS SUCCESSFUL IN GRANT, CITY
WILL ALLOCATE $3009000 FROM NEXT YEAR'S C.D. FUNDS,
ETC.
Mayor Ferre: Before I take up the 3:30 P.M. agenda, I have
the obligation to take up a matter that Senator Pepper calls
me up on just about every day and has driven me up a wall on
it - rightfully so - he is right and it is a major issue
that needs to be addressed, and that, is the new Christian
Hospital. I saw Dr. Simpson walking around some place.
Mr. Plummer: He was out back when I saw him.
Mayor Ferre: There he is, right back here. Mr. Manager,
can we take care of S-I on the 3:30 Supplemental Agenda?
Mr. Gary: Yes, Mr. Mayor, we recommend this so we can
proceed forward with the Christian Hospital.
Mr. Plummer: Let me make a point., Mr. Mayor. I definitely
intend to vote for Christian Hospital. Mr. Mayor, there is
an item - there are three of these applications before us,
and the one that is concerning me is the one in Little
Havana on S. W. 1st Street.
Mayor Ferre: What, does that have to do with Christian
Hospital?
Mr. Plummer: It has nothing to do. What I am saying is,
that, I don't, want, these rubber stamped, because I as a
neighbor, have no information. The neighborhood has not
been notified. We have nothing to go on.
Mayor Ferre: J. L., I accept that. I am just trying to get,
with all due respects, Jim Brennan ...
Mr. Plummer:
And Claude Pepper off your back.
sl
95 November 15, 1984
y
Y
2
Mayor Ferre: George Clark and Nicholas ...
Mr. Plummer: Mr. Mayor, I will move S-I if that will ...
Mayor Ferre: Is there a second?
Mr. Dawkins: No, I would like to hold it up. I've got some
stuff coming out of my office. Will you bring the material
out of my office on the Christian Hospital now, please?
Yes, sir, I definitely oppose this. I keep telling Mr.
Simpson - I will tell George Simpson now in front of
everybody until he shows me where he owns, or Black people,
on part of this hospital, I am against, it,. Let me start,
Mr. Mayor, here where on the 13th of October, 1983 I wrote
Mr. Gary and I said "The Christian Hospital Grant, in my
opinion, leaves much to be desired. I would like to have
the following information before we move forward on this
matter: Who is the owner, owners, and what percentage is
owned by them? Where are the matching funds coming from,
since the City of Miami is giving this land. What written
guarantees are there that the poor and indigent will be
provided with health care. If one has no hospital
insurance, he/she cannot often obtain health care service.
Will this be true of this hospital? Are the doctors on
staff going to put their patients in this hospital, and how
are these doctors going to contribute to the maintenance and
upkeep of this hospital? Dr. Simpson called this morning
and requested that, action be taken." On, and on, and the
last thing I received, sir, was September 25, 1984 and I
will read it. It, says: "From Howard Gary to the Mayor and
Members of the Commission. During the discussion I had last,
week with the U. S. Under -Secretary in charge of this UDAG
program, he stated that one of the main reasons the UDAG
amendment, for Christian Hospital was not, approved, was the
failure on the part of the City and the Applicant to sign
the approved UDAG grant submitted to the City on September
220 1983." As a followup to this comment, I asked Dena
Spillman,. Director of Community Development, to explain why
the UDAG was not, signed. Attached is her response. She
says: "In mid October she met, with Dr. Simpson and Anthony
Estevez to discuss the changes proposed, which were non-
profit group to profit, group, allows syndication. Contract
does not allow for syndication ; request for non-reclause
loan, a decrease in project cost from $22,000,000 to
$17,000,000, with UDAG amount, remaining stable at
$3,000,000, allowing for divestitude of up to 48% of
Estevez's interests ..." and I have gone on and on and on I
too, am like you, Mr. Mayor, I am really and truly honored
by the calls from Senator Pepper every other day, but I have
told him, and I will tell him again, until they show me that
this hospital, Mr. Mayor, is going to be self supporting, I
cannot support, it. If they are going to put, a teaching
hospital there, or some hospital that will support itself,
then I am for it, but to put another hospital where we are
going to have another 60 or 80 empty beds, I am just not for
it.
Mayor Ferre: On the record, let, me ... Mr. Manager and Mr.
Castaneda, I want you to listen to this. We are not into
the issue now as to why we missed that UDAG. We know it is
pertinent. Whatever happened, and whoever is at fault, or
whatever was at fault, the issue is that, we now have an
opportunity to once again apply for a UDAG. What is before
us - and the reason, to Mrs. Marjory Stoneman Douglas and to
the others that are patiently waiting on another matter,
this is a very important hospital of the Black 'community,
150 beds right smack in the middle of Liberty City, --which is
much needed and which we, I think, can get the Federal
government because of Claude Pepper's tremendous interest in
this, and his persistence, to get some funding from an
sl 96 November 15, 1984
io
agency called UDAG, and all we are doing here today in
effect, is allowing the Administration to properly petition
the Federal government for a UDAG grant. We are now in the
month of November. There is a cut, off date, which is around
the corner, I imagine in December.
Mr. Casteneda: November 30th.
Mayor Ferre: November 30th. If we don't vote on it today,
we will miss the November 30th cut off, which means that, we
miss ... the decision is made by March, is that right?
Mr. Casteneda: January 30th.
Mayor Ferre: This is the first cut off, but the final
decision is made in March.
Mr. Casteneda: Right.
Mayor Ferre: So, if we don't do it now, the next go around
is in March, right?
Mr. Casteneda: March 30th.
Mayor Ferre: March 30th, and by that time, the competition
is very, very severe, and it, is of major importance. Now,
let, me say to my colleague, Commissioner Miller Dawkins. I
subscribe to his theory that the majority ownership of this
hospital must, be Black, and I have always subscribed to
that. I do today. Secondly, let me say, in addition to
which, I think the question of it being economically viable,
is important. That is something that, the Federal government
must, also deal with. I think we should preclude the Federal
government and the the applicants from coming up with
solutions that will satisfy the Federal government and it is
my intention, if there are three votes on this Commission to
pursue this matter, and not lose this very important,
opportunity. It is further my intention, Mr. Manager, to
make a motion to specifically apply $300,000 of the C.D.
funds for next year's go around to be committed to this
project, provided we get, a UDAG application. I would expect,
Metropolitan Dade County to do the same and I have Senator
Pepper's assurance that he has that kind of a commitment,
from Merrett Stierheim and Steve Clark and that that will
help in moving forward on this project..
Mr. Dawkins: I think Mr. Castaneda will tell you that. I too
have been moving forward on the Christian Hospital. I too,
have agreed with him that we must get an application in for
the UDAG grant, in November. I also have received a
commitment from a private investor that in the event we get
the UDAG grant, this investor will put $26,000,000 into this
hospital. He will tell you this, so this Commission ...
people don't know, we look like we are divided, but are all
working for the same thing. It is just that the Sunshine
Law prevents us from ... I could not, tell J. L. Plummer that
I have a developer who is going to put in $26,000,000. I
couldn't tell the Mayor until now, but we have a private
developer who said if we get the UDAG grant, he will put
$26,000,000 ...
Mayor Ferre: Miller, let's just, apply for the UDAG grant.
We will argue about rules.
Mr. Dawkins: If we get, the UDAG grant, we are home free.
Mayor Ferre: That is right, but, let's apply for it! Are
you going to second Plummer's motion?
Mr. Dawkins: Sure.
sl
97 November 15, 1984
q
Mayor Ferre: All right.
1
Mr. Dawkins: There is no way in the world Mr. Reagan is
going to give us a hospital and with Claude Pepper running
around talking bad about the Republicans!
i
Mayor Ferre: All right, we have a motion and a second on
Item S-I. Is there further discussion? Call the roll.
The following resolution was introduced by Commissioner
Plummer, who moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 84-1312
is
�
t?
i
ii
�i
�1
M1:
A RESOLUTION APPROVING IN PRINCIPLE THE
APPLICATION OF NEW CHRISTIAN HOSPITAL
INC. FOR SUBMISSION BY THE CITY OF MIAMI
TO THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING 7
URBAN DEVELOPMENT FOR AN URBAN
DEVELOPMENT ACTION GRANT, FOR
DEVELOPMENT OF A 150-BED ACUTE -CARE
GENERAL HOSPITAL.
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here
and on file in the Office of the City Clerk.)
Upon being seconded by Commissioner Dawkins, the
resolution was passed and adopted by the following vote -
AYES: Commissioner Miller J. Dawkins
Commissioner J. L. Plummer, Jr.
Vice -Mayor Demetrio J. Perez, Jr.
Mayor Maurice A. Ferre
NOES: None.
ABSENT: Commissioner Joe Carollo
Mayor Ferre: Would somebody move, if not, I will be happy
too ... I will tell you what, so Pepper will leave me alone,
I pass the Chair to the Vice -Mayor and I move that the City
of Miami go on record stating that if we should be the
successful recipient of a UDAG grant for the new Christian
Hospital in Miami, that the City of Miami would go on record
as saying that in next year's C. D. funds, $300,000 of it
would be specifically earmarked for this important community
development in Liberty City, should we be successful in
getting the grant - if lightning strikes and we get it. I
so move.
Mr. Dawkins:
Mr. Perez: Motion understood. We have a second.
comments? If not, call the roll.
Any other
The following motion was introduced by Mayor
Ferre, who moved its adoption:
MOTION NO. 84-1313
A MOTION STATING THE INTENT OF THE CITY
COMISSION THAT IF THE CITY OF MIAMI IS
THE SUCCESSFUL RECIPIENT OF A U.D.A.G.
GRANT IN CONNECTION WITH THE PROPOSED
"CHRISTIAN HOSPITAL" IN LIBERTY CITY,
THAT WE WILL ALLOCATE FROM NEXT YEAR'S
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT FUNDS AN AMOUNT OF
$300,000 WHICH SHALL BE EARMARKED FOR
THIS PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT IN LIBERTY
CITY.
Upon being seconded by Commissioner Dawkins, the motion
was passed and adopted by the following vote -
AYES: Commissioner Miller J. Dawkins
Commissioner J. L. Plummer, Jr.
Vice -Mayor Demetrio J. Perez, Jr.
Mayor Maurice A. Ferre
NOES: None.
ABSENT: Commissioner Joe Carollo
Mr. Casteneda: Mr. Mayor, we can do that, by resolution so
we could also attach that?
Mayor There was a motion that was passed. You have got, to
get after Bob Clark, over there and Lucia to get this put, in
resolution form and we will vote on it hopefully before
Plummer leaves at 7:00 P.M. (MAYOR FERRE READS RESOLUTION
INTO THE RECORD) Now, where did this come from?
Mr. Gary: Go ahead, vote on it again. That is okay, vote
on it again.
29. ALLOCATE $10,000 TO PRICE-WATERHOUSE, PROFESSIONAL
SERVICES RE: FUNDING FOR PROPOSED CHRISTIAN HOSPITAL.
Mayor Ferre: Who gave you this? Did Walter Pierce give you
this?
Mr. Gary: That is fine. What that does, it accomplishes
the $10,000 that, was received for the UDAG to pay Price
Waterhouse. I think you should vote and specific on that
resolution.
Mayor Ferre: All right, is there a motion?
Mr. Dawkins: Move it.
Mayor Ferre: Is there a second?
Mr. Plummer: Second.
Mayor Ferre: Plummer seconds. Call the roll.
sl
November 15, 1984
The following resolution was introduced by Commissioner
Dawkins, who moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 84-1314
A RESOLUTION ALLOCATING AN AMOUNT UP TO
$10,000 FROM SPECIAL PROGRAMS AND
ACCOUNTS, CONTINGENT FUND, TO BE PAID
TO PRICE WATERHOUSE AS PAYMENT FOR
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES RENDERED IN
CONNECTION WITH THE FUNDING OF THE
PROPOSED CHRISTIAN HOSPITAL AND
PROVIDING FOR REPAYMENT OF SAID FUNDS TO
THE CITY BY NEW CHRISTIAN HOSPITAL, INC.
WHEN SUCH FUNDS BECOME AVAILABLE FROM
THE PROCEEDS OF A PROPOSED REVENUE BOND
ISSUE.
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here
and on file in the Office of the City Clerk.)
Upon being seconded by Commissioner Plummer, the
resolution was passed and adopted by the following vote -
AYES: Commissioner Miller J. Dawkins
Commissioner J. L. Plummer, Jr.
Vice -Mayor Demetrio J. Perez, Jr.
Mayor Maurice A. Ferre
NOES: None.
ABSENT: Commissioner Joe Carollo
30. AUTHORIZE FINAL APPLICATION FOR MAJOR USE SPECIAL
PERMIT - GROVE BAY PLAZA, LTD. TERREMARK AT BAYSHORE,
INC. A.T.H. CURACAO, NV.
Mr. Robert. Traurig: Item Number 9, which is a resolution
just to set the hearing on the D.R.I. on the Terremark
Application on Bayshore.
Mayor Ferre: What day would the hearing be on?
Mr. Plummer: January 24th.
Mayor Ferre: Is there a motion?
Mr. Plummer: Move it.
Mr. Perez: Second.
Mayor Ferre: There is a second, further discussion on Item
9? Is there anybody here who wishes to speak to Item 9?
Let the record reflect, that nobody stood up on this. We
voting to set the public hearing date on January 24t,h.
Listen now, we are on Item 9. All that, does is sets a date
for a public hearing on Item 9 which is Grove Bay Plaza on
Bayshore Drive. It sets a hearing date? Does anybody wish
to speak on this item? Let, the record reflect that, nobody
stood on that. Call the roll on Item 9.
sl 100 November 15, 1984
The following resolution was introduced by Commissioner
Plummer, who moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 84-1315
A RESOLUTION CONTINUING THE PUBLIC
HEARING PERTAINING TO THE ISSUANCE OF A
MAJOR USE SPECIAL PERMIT, A DEVELOPMENT
ORDER, AND ZONING RECLASSIFICATION FOR
THE TERREMARK CENTRE PROJECT, A
DEVELOPMENT OF REGIONAL IMPACT LOCATED
AT APPROXIMATELY AVIATION AVENUE,
TIGERTAIL AVENUE AND SOUTH BAYSHORE
DRIVE (MORE PARTICULARLY DESCRIBED
HEREIN); FROM 3:30 P.M., THURSDAY,
OCTOBER 25, 1984, TO 3:30 P.M., THURSDAY
JANUARY 24, 1985, OR A RESCHEDULED OR
RECONVENED MEETING, AS THE PUBLIC
HEARING DATE FOR CONSIDERATION OF SAID
FINAL APPLICATION FOR MAJOR USE SPECIAL
PERMIT; FURTHER, DIRECTING THE CITY
CLERK TO SEND COPIES OF THIS RESOLUTION
TO AFFECTED AGENCIES AND THE APPLICANT.
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here
and on file in the Office of the City Clerk.)
Upon being seconded by Commissioner Perez, the
resolution was passed and adopted by the following vote -
AYES: Commissioner Miller J. Dawkins
Commissioner J. L. Plummer, Jr.
Vice -Mayor Demetrio J. Perez, Jr.
Mayor Maurice A. Ferre
NOES: None.
ABSENT: Commissioner Joe Carollo
31. AUTHORIZE FINAL APPLICATION FOR MAJOR USE SPECIAL
PERMIT, BRICKELL STATION TOWERS, INC.
------------------------------------------------------------
Mayor Ferre: Now we are on Agenda Item 10, is that it?
Mr. Robert Traurig: Item 10 is merely a major special use
permit, which has been recommended for approval by Staff and
the Planning Advisory Board.
Mayor Ferre: The Planning Department recommended approval.
The Planning Advisory Board - did they vote on this?
Mr. Joe McManus: Yes, sir.
Mayor Ferre: Unanimously?
Mr. McManus: 5 - 0.
Mayor Ferre: 5 to 0, all right,.
Mr. Plummer: What is it you are trying to accomplish, very
quickly.
Mayor Ferre: Authorizes the final application of a major
use special permit for Brickell Station Towers.
sl 101 November 15, 1984
Mr. Traurig: To build a high rise tower across the street,
from the Brickell Station where the Western Union Building
is now at the corner of the Trail and 1st Avenue.
Mayor Ferre: I've seen it 100 times.
Mr. McManus: Mr. Mayor ...
Mayor Ferre: This is the one that Peter Wenzel was involved
in?
Mr. Traurig: Yes, Peter Wenzel.
Mayor Ferre: The Japanese man, because he is here to
finance and the architect was Raul Aubrey.
Mr. Traurig: Absolutely.
Mayor Ferre: And has been before us a whole bunch of times.
Now, what, is the problem?
Mr. McManus: Mr. Mayor, for the record, the Planning
Advisory Board acted on this approximately a week ago. They
made minor changes in the recommendations.
Mayor Ferre: Those minor changes are a part of what we are
doing here, is that correct?
Mr. Traurig: We have accepted all the changes.
Mayor Ferre: For the record, is there anybody here who is
opposed to Item 10, which is the Brickell Station Towers,
Inc., application. Does anybody wish to speak as an
opponent? You are an opponent,?
Mr. Traurig: He is a proponent.
Mayor Ferre: No, I am not, asking for proponents. Is there
anybody here who is an opponent? Does anybody wish to speak
on Item 10 who is opposed to it? ... who has reservations to
it, who is against, this project,? Let the record reflect,
that nobody stood up. Go ahead.
Mr. Plummer: Mr. Mayor, I don't think it, is proper for this
Commission to vote without either a written document or
there putting on the record what, those minor changes are. I
have seen in the past, where the Department had what they
called minor changes that were wiped away from Ojus South.
Mayor Ferre: All right, you have a about a minute and one-
half left, of your three minutes.
Mr. McManus: Mr. Commission, if I could indicate to you the
minor changes referred to in Exhibit "A" in the development
order. You have Exhibit "A" I would be happy
to pass out green copies, however ...
Mayor Ferre: Can you for the record satisfy Commissioner
Plummer request.? It, is a valid request, to specify what
Appendix "A" means.
Mr. McManus: Exhibit, "A" is an attachment to the major
use
special
permit and
the changes are Condition one,
the
numbers
are changed
slightly, but they are still within
the
overall
numbers of
the development, that is the total
of
284,110
square feet
of development..
Mr. Plummer: Is the new number?
Mr. McManus: Yes.
sl
102 November 15, 1984
0
Mr. Plummer: All right.
Mr. McManus: Throughout the language on the conditions
there was mention made of a development order. Two words
have been stricken and replaced by major use special permit.
Mr. Plummer: All right.
Mr. McManus: There was a requirement, that the Applicant
install an air monitoring station to test the air in the
Brickell area. We think this is redundant, because two other
developers are going to be doing the same thing. Why should
this developer follow on and come up with the same numbers.
We recommended to the Planning Advisory Board and they
agreed to delete that requirement. The last, change was a
requirement, that the Applicant, file the permit with the
Clerk of the Circuit. Court and we agreed that that, was going
beyond what we reasonably could require the applicant, and
we agreed to delete that and the Planning Advisory Board did
also. That, was the sum and substance of the changes.
Mr. Plummer: Mr. Traurig, you have heard the changes as
detailed in amending the motion. Is that agreeable with
you?
Mr. Traurig: Yes, sir.
Mr. Plummer: Call the roll, Mr. Mayor.
Mr. Ongie: You need a motion.
Mayor Ferre: All right, we have a motion - Mr. Plummer. Is
there a second to the motion?
Mr. Perez: Second.
Mayor Ferre: On Item 10 as amended, with the amendments as
been specified. It, has been seconded by Commissioner Perez.
Further discussion? Call the roll.
The following resolution was introduced by Commissioner
Plummer, who moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 84-1316
A RESOLUTION ISSUING A MAJOR USE SPECIAL
PERMIT, ATTACHED HERETO AS EXHIBIT 'A'
AND INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE,
APPROVING, WITH CONDITIONS, THE BRICKELL
STATION TOWERS PROJECT PROPOSED BY
BRICKELL STATION TOWERS, INC. FOR
APPROXIMATELY 32-90 SOUTHWEST 8TH
STREET, 801-899 SOUTHWEST 1ST AVENUE,
AND 61-89 SOUTHWEST 9TH STREET (MORE
PARTICULARLY DESCRIBED HEREIN),
PROVIDING FOR ISSUANCE OF A CLASS C
SPECIAL PERMIT, AND PROVIDING THAT THE
PERMIT SHALL BE BINDING ON THE APPLICANT
AND SUCCESSORS IN INTEREST.
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here
and on file in the Office of the City Clerk.)
ld
103
November 15, 1984
1
L
Upon being seconded by Commissioner Perez, the
, .
resolution was passed and adopted by the following vote -
AYES: Commissioner Miller J. Dawkins
Commissioner J. L. Plummer, Jr.
Vice -Mayor Demetrio J. Perez, Jr.
Mayor Maurice A. Ferre
J
NOES: None.
ABSENT: Commissioner Joe Carollo
1
----------------- -- - -- - -------------------------------------
32. SECOND PUBLIC HEARING ON PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT OF
COMMODORE BAY PROJECT IN COCONUT GROVE - CONTINUED TO
DECEMBER 12, 6:00 P.M.
------------------------------------------------------------
Mayor Ferre: Mr. Luft, we are now on Item 6. All right.,
Mr. Luft, were you the band leader here?
i
Mr. Jack Luft: That, is one word for it, I guess. I would
like to take this opportunity to enter into the record the
correspondence that, has occurred since First Reading to this
date between various civic individuals, the Applicant, the
Department, and other agencies within the City of Miami and
Dade County. The first, item that I want to enter into the
record is a memorandum from Lt. Riggs concerning the fire
flow questions. It is dated October 12th and it is
concerning water pressures. Following that is a letter from
-ki
Kenneth Treister.
�i
Mr. Plummer: What, does the memorandum say?
Mayor Ferre: What are you saying?
!,
Mr. Plummer: He is reading from the letter of the questions
raised by the Commission. The first one was in reference to
water pressure. He said he had such a letter, and all I am
asking is, what did the letter say? Then he went on to the
v�
second one.
Mayor Ferre: While he is looking for the letter, let me
read into the record telegrams and letters so that the
i
record will reflect, these letters:
"To The Mayor and Commissioners: Please oppose
Commodore Bay Project and truly represent the
public interest." Mr. & Mrs. Wallace Cole.
Well, I thought, we were doing that.
"Please vote no today on the Commodore Bay Project
to give State of Florida a chance to buy and
preserve for the public this key property in the
heart, of the Grove." Louis & Nancy Hector,
Precinct, 841.
From Elton Gissendanner -
u`,
"The Department of Natural Resources stands ready
>. 't
to cooperate with the City of Miami and other
local interests and any effort to acquire the
Commodore Bay property in Coconut Grove for public
4w,
purposes. Please feel free to call on us at the
appropriate time." Elton J. Gissendanner.
ld 104 November 15, 1984
+
I understand that he has spoken to the Governor and
that this also has the Governor's support, even though
it hasn't gone on the record. We have a letter from
Mr. Eugene Massen. It reads:
"I am writing to you at this time to convey my
feelings for the proposed Commodore Bay Project,
put, forth by Ken Treister. I feel that this
i
project will develop and enhance and prove to be
one of the most eagerly sought, after areas to
visit, not only by we the Floridians, but also by
visitors who will hear this project from all forms
of media. Kenneth Treister, who we know due to
his involvement with and development of office
buildings in the beautifully detailed Mayfair in
the Grove has proven in the past and continues to
prove in the present that forward looking advances
are a necessity for the coming times. The
proposed Commodore Bay Project envisioned by Mr.
Treister will consolidate these very important
facts detailed further on in the letter and which
whereupon careful consideration, prove to be a
decided asset to continuance of the strength of
Coconut. Grove and Commodore Plaza have had and
will continue to have upon the City of Miami,
mainly one, Commodore Bay Project will create
badly needed public access to the waterfront area
that, surrounds this section. It, will be available
to all. Two, Commodore Bay Project will
strengthen the Village Center by bringing shops
and cafes. Parking will be across Commodore
Plaza. Three, Commodore Bay Project will create
moderate income apartments, a total of 197
apartments for Village Center. Four, Commodore
Bay Project will create artist center - the Grove
House reactivated and will open pavilions for
sl
different, art disciplines. Five, Commodore Bay
Project, will provide pavilions accompanying
paintings, ceramics and photography. Six,
?'
Commodore Bay Project, will open an art school run
by Juanita May as part of the Metropolitan Museum
of Art. Seven, Commodore Bay Project will open
outreach art center, part of the which will be in
the Black neighborhoods. I highly endorse this
proposed project we feel that the time has come
g
for Coconut Grove to stretch itself and become the
focal point of a very unusual and beautiful area.
Commodore Bay Project, is well conceived and covers
the needs of the community. I feel that. this
project will prove to be an asset and prevent the
eventual takeover by the possibility of a high
rise in our midst." Your truly, Eugene Massen,
Professor of Fine Arts, University of Miami.
"I am writing this letter and I am requesting that
you read it into the record and make it a part of
the official hearing with regard to Commodore Bay
Project. I am a native Miamian and have been a
frequent visitor to Coconut Grove for many, many
years. Coconut. Grove is in fact, my favorite part
of Miami and I have placed a contract for the
purchase of a home near Main Highway. I am
familiar with the plans for Commodore Bay, and
have had an opportunity to briefly review them. I
wish to speak out wholeheartedly in favor of this
project. I believe it is consistent for the City
r
of Miami's plan to develop an urban business
section where people live, work, and spend their
leisure time. I have had the pleasure of visiting
t
Port Banus in Costa del Sol, Spain, and believe
ld 105 November 15, 1984
that. this project, will be very close to the port
project of Port Banus. That project brings many
people to the area who live on port who share the
life of community. I believe Commodore Bay
Project will have the same positive result for
Coconut Grove and for the City of Miami. My wife
joins me in this wholehearted endorsement, of the
project. Thank you for your attention and
interest in the future of the City." Donald I.
Bierman.
There is a letter from Mr. Howard Scharlin, which I will not,
read but put into the record, since I saw Mr. Scharlin
around here and if he wishes to speak further on it, he can,
and there is a letter lastly, by Marshall Harris, former
distinguished legislator from Dade County that he wants read
into the record, and it reads:
"Recently I had the privilege of listening to some
very interesting cocktail conversation concerning
the zoning application pending before the city.
As you probably well know, Howard Scharlin and Ken
Treister are close personal friends of mine.
Kenny and I served in the Miami Beach High School
debating team in 1947 and 1948. I have had the
opportunity by virtue of my being up in Howard
Scharlin's office t,o see the plan that, Kenny has
developed for Commodore Bay. I personally cannot
imagine a nicer development for that property.
Property is abutted on both sides by parks, and
this development would give everyone the chance to
utilize the shoreline of Biscayne Bay. I find the
walk way proposals very intriguing. A walkway
along the shore in this area is even more
appropriate than in the downtown area. I know
that there are many objectors and that, a major
focus of their objection is traffic and
congestion. Coconut Grove is congested, but this
project is not going to add materially to that, and
the beauty of the project offsets what little
congestion is added. I recommend your
wholehearted support of the project and hope that,
the City Commission endorses it unanimously. By
the way, I am enjoying my service both as your
arbitrator in cable television and chairperson of
the Miami Audit Advisory Committee. In both cases
I have been very impressed with the caliber of the
City's professional staff and I thank you for
doing me the honor of appointing me to both of
these positions." Very cordially, Marshall S.
Harris.
Now, does anybody else have telegrams or memorandums or
things that need to be read into the record?
Mr. Dawkins: I have all of those you read. I think I need
clarification on just one, Mr. Mayor, please. Is there
anyone here from Bishop Schofield's office?
Mayor Ferre: The Bishop is here himself. I saw him
standing in the back of the room a little while ago.
Mr. Dawkins: Bishop Schofield?
Mayor Ferre: Is the Bishop still here? The Bishop of the
Episcopal Church? I saw him at, the back of the room about,
15, 20 minutes ago. Is there anyone here from his office?
Okay, Father, you want to stick your neck out on this one?
ld
106
November 15, 1984
9 0
k
Mr. Dawkins: Okay, well anyway, Mr. Treister, I have a
letter here saying that ... and I will read the letter. It.
says:
"I send this letter to you and the Commission to
let, you know that St. Stephens Church opposes the
wall and has not in any way, shape or form
requested it. Through the Vestry of the
Congregation the school is part of the Church and
anything requested should go through the Vestry
and not, through the people outside of the parish.
Thank you for your attention."
All I need to know from somebody or anybody what, is the
status of the wall?
Mayor Ferre: Okay, we are going to get, into all these
subjects in a little while. All I am asking for now while
he searches for a letter that, Plummer asks him to find, and
I assume that, you have found it now, is to put things into
the record that people have requested be read into the
record since they cannot be here. I have one from Alfred
Browning Parker. Do you have more for me to read? All
right, that is fair. Everybody is entitled. I won't read
it all. I will just put it into the record and I will read
the highlights of it, or would you want to do it? All
right, this is from Alfred Browning Parker.
"The Commodore Bay mixed used development of the
site for which it is intended are both well known
to me. This project has my wholehearted approval
with no reservations. We must, encourage as many
citizens as possible who live in our satellite
urbans areas. Over a dozen years ago I presented
to the Chamber of Commerce a plan to revitalize
downtown Miami. Housing for thousands were
proposed in megastructures to the north at the
City's dock property and to the south with similar
housing structures over the I-95 interchange and
the land along Miami River - Ball Point,
recommended for purchase by the City would have
been left, open, and the City docks with the deep
water fingers would have remained under the
megastructure instead of being filled in for the
ill-fated Bicentennial Park. This plan was well
documented in the Miami Herald's Tropic Magazine
of January 2, 1972. Even early than this, a
planning suggestion was advanced for developing
the Grove area along the Bay from St. Stephen's
Church to Ransom Everglades Day School. This was
intended to bring people into the immediate area
with all of the urban amenities within walking
distance. It could have been done and can be done
in a manner that, would not only preserve the
bayfront and the natural charm of the hammock
grove, but, also introduce our community to that
waterfront which they have never enjoyed and at,
the same time offer housing to those of moderate
income. The Commodore Bay Development is an
opportunity to move confidently into a future
where careful planning and durable construction
will not destroy our Coconut Grove Heritage, but
rather fulfill its promise. There is no
justification in criticizing the project on the
basis of density. A high density within the
immediate confines of our Coconut Grove Community
would be a blessing. A very modest proposal of
under 200 residential units in Commodore Bay is a
creative step into the future which I hope you
will support." Sincerely, Alfred Browning Parker.
ld
107
November 15, 1984
You don't, want me to read all of it, do you? Okay, this is
David C. Neil.
"Dear Maurice: As a personal friend, but more
particularly as a citizen of Miami, I implore you
i
to take a close look at, the Commodore Bay Project.
1
Living within 375 feet of the proposed multi-
functional development., the residents of Abitare
have sustained the rigors of 10, 20 special events
per year in the Grove which block our driveways,
preventing egress and ingress to our very homes.
The trash and the garbage thrown each week
throughout our hammock and weekly the noise and
wreckless cruising of teenagers through our
village - don't, allow Coconut Grove to become more
attractive to such nuisance. It is inexplicable
to be nearby residents. How the Miami
Commissioners can ride roughshod over the
recommendations of the Planning and Zoning Board
and play so little heed to those of us who will be
directly affected. The noise level already peaks
in our living rooms on weekends from Peacock Park.
Now they want to bring it closer to us as a daily
sufferance, which in the proposed lounge and
restaurant facility, will be allowable until 3:00
A.M. each morning with no other access road but
the driveway on Main Highway already constricted
by historically preserved hammocks. I cannot
foresee anything but, increased traffic stress to
the point of disaster if an emergency vehicle
needs to enter or exit the project. Furthermore,
who is going to protect, the Barnacle from vandals
if the access becomes so easy from the Bayside.
An often mentioned selling point, of the developer
-!
has been the great numbers of apartments and
condos which will be available to "moderate income
folk". They passed around the lovely photographs
?!
of Port Banus and Marbella. Maurice you have
been to both places and you know that, the only
moderate income people there are those of tour
_jl
buses from X for the cruise on the million
dollar yacht for those providing services needed
t!
by the nearby jet, set condos. I am afraid the
arrogance and the deception of the developers is
only equaled by the insensitivity of the Miami
Commission. Please, (please underlined) ask Mr.
Treister to nullify the high density residential
units and parking facilities when you vote no
again on October 25th. Thank you for your time."
Sincerely, Peggy F. Neal.
I hope that concludes all of the letters that are being
asked to be read into the record and the rest, will be people
speaking for themselves. All right, are you now ready to
answer the question that Commissioner Plummer asked?
Mr. Luft: Commissioner Dawkins, I was approached after the
First, Reading by Mr. Hugo Parsons and Mr. David McCrea
representing the parents of the children in the church
school - not the church, but the parents of the school
children. They requested of the Planning Department that we
put in as a requirement in the Development Order that an 8
foot wall be built, along the church property line. I agreed
to put language to that effect before the Commission today
for your consideration. Whether you want to require an 8
foot wall or not, will be up to your assessment of the
various requests here. The point however, is that the
church and the Bishop speaking for the church was apparently
not consulted by Mr. Parsons and Mr. McCrea and the church,
ld 108 November 15, 1984
i
.}r
yr
i
through the letter to you expressed its opposition to the
2..
wall being built along its property line, separating a
potential project on the Commodore Bay site from the church.
Mr. Dawkins: So ....
f
Mr. Luft: So there is not a wall there today. There may be
a wall if this Commission decides to accept this proposal
and require that a wall be built. There may be, if you want,
Mr. Dawkins: And the walls that will be built, will be built.
on .. .
Mr. Luft: On the Commodore Bay property.
Mr. Dawkins: On the Commodore Bay property, but it would
shield out light from the church's property.
Mr. Luft: That is right. It will separate the two
properties and it was the desire of the parents of the
school children that, a wall be built, but it is apparently
+;
the desire of the church that there not be a wall built
without conferring with the church first.
Mr. Dawkins: How do we justify listening to the parents
whose children are in school instead of listening to the
property owner?
Mr. Luft: Well, I think we will listen to everyone. It, is
up to you to decide who should properly speak, or where the
y
needs lie here.
Mr. Dawkins: Okay, thank you.
Mr. Luft: Okay, the first memorandum I have is from David
4�
Teems, Deputy Chief of Fire Inspection Services Department
'I
and the memorandum was to me dated October 12th and it
expressed some concern about fire flow.
Mayor Ferre: Jack, are these part, of the record?
Mr. Luft: No, they are not. These came after the first
Al
reading.
a:
Mayor Ferre: Are they available?
Mr. Luft: They are available.
Mayor Ferre: Janet, just, mentioned to me that she has no
.ti
access to these.
Ms. Janet Cooper: I went, to the office yesterday and
looked at the file and these were not in there. If this
A
letter was October 12th, today is November 15th. I think
there was adequate time for it to have gotten to the file.
Mr. Luft: They were on my desk and I was organizing this
-
for the presentation today.
rr'
Ms. Cooper: We have great photocopying machines in the
City.
Mr. Plummer: Can we get copies of those now?
Mr. Luft: Yes, these are all copies to be presented to the
Clerk.
v
Mr. Plummer: No, I mean to the Commission! The Clerk is
not, voting.
1d 109 November 15, 1984
W
Mr. Luft: Well, I have one complete let of copies of all
the memos. Yes, we can get copies to you, and I will send
.�
it back now, if you wish.
Ms. Cooper: We haven't had the privilege of seeing them or
reviewing them or having the opportunity to evaluate them,
?.
come up with contrary evidence if we find it is so
{
t
necessary, so technically I need to object.
Mayor Ferre: Janet, I understand, and I let, your objection
_-
be recorded and noted, but on the other hand, there are a
;>
lot, of people that, are waiting patiently here and I am not,
going to deny them the right to have their say for or
against this project.
Ms. Cooper: I am not, asking that.
Mayor Ferre: Okay.
Ms. Cooper: I've sent, all the letters and memos back to be
copied.
Mayor Ferre: Would then make them available to members of
the Commission and put, them into the record so that the
public will also have availability to these letters. Now,
is there anything else you want to add to that?
Mr. Luft: There were several requirements or conditions
that we have written into the major use special permit, since
the first reading, as the result of the discussions and
conversations and letters and as a result, of certain
conditions that, this Commission imposed on its motion on
September 20th on First, reading. The first condition was
that the restaurant, space be reduced by 5,000 square feet,
with an equivalent square footage transferred into general
retail use. This was due to a request of Public Works to
reduce the impact of sewers. A second provision was that
artists pavilions along the northeast property lines be set
back an additional five feet in the event that an access
road is needed along that, property in the future.
Requirement that internal drives be used before exiting the
property through St. Stephen's Church has been deleted since
St. Stephen's is no longer participating with an access
drive. Number four, access requirements for three entrance
drives have been changed to require only one entrance drive
intersecting Main as to the Department's proposal on
September 20th. Requirements to preserve the coral rock
wall along the Peacock boundary has been added at the
request of local residents. Requirements to submit all
final plans to environmental preservation review board have
been restated in the major use permit to reinforce current
requirements of the preservation district ordinance. The
statement providing that no height, variances shall be
granted has been added as per citizen request at, the
meeting. Requirements for a two lane road intersecting Main
Highway at Kennedy Plaza has been added as to the
revised access plan. A new requirement that all
construction and service vehicle access to the site be
limited to the two lane road, and not along any property
line or fire lane adjacent, to the Church has been added, or
the third lane that, the primary two lane entrance road at
Commodore Plaza would be single access for construction
vehicles during the building of the project. A provision
that, the Public Works Director may request a second access
drive be constructed along the property lines should this
Commission so desire or request, and ...
Mr. Plummer:
requested by
That is the third lane? And that is if it
. . .
Id
110 November 15, 1984
Mr. Luft: There is two possibilities. One, the Commission
may decide to request a third lane as a condition of its
a
approval, should it approve this at second reading, or it
may approve at Second Reading and put a condition that,
should traffic conditions warrant at a later date, the
Director of Public Works could require it to be built by the
project, at any time if the Commission chooses to make it a
condition at, a later date, as opposed to right now. A
'
developer proffered amenities at the last reading of 250
palm trees and picnic shelters and bay walks with Peacock
Park have been added to the major use permit. An 8 foot
coral rock wall, requested by the parents along the property
line has been added as a requirement, should the Commission
accept that, request. Use of Peacock Park for construction
vehicle access is prohibited completely. A remote site
artists pavilion to be built by the developer, or with the
cash contribution within a mile of the project, and to be
approved by this Commission, has been added. All project
construction vehicles shall be prohibited from using 32nd
Avenue or McDonald Street to access the site and should be
confined to major arterial roadways. That, the coral rock
wall, which encroaches from the park side onto the property,
that the developer agree, after a building permit, is issued,
to dedicate that, wall and any land under it, back to the
City to protect that wall and that the Dade County
Archeologist, Historic Preservation Division be granted
prior notice to any earth moving, clearing, tree removal,
ditch digging, or filling of solution holes so that he may
test the site and monitor all of those activities. Those
are additional requirements to the major use permit.
Mayor Ferre: Anything else you want to add on the record?
Does the Administration have any other statements to make?
Mr. Luft: On the Historic Preservation Board, there was a
hearing in June, advertised public hearing, wherein this
project presented to the Board the concept, plan for the
development. At that hearing the Board chose to endorse the
a'
project and voted so. Subsequent to that, hearing, there was
representations made at the Planning Advisory Board and
again before this Commission at first reading as to that
i
Board's endorsement. It was pointed out, after First Reading
that there had been changes in the first, plan that was
reviewed by that, environmental board - those changes
consisting of the two lane road through the hammock. It was
requested by the various individuals that we reschedule
another hearing before the Environmental Preservation Review
Board. The Administration declined to do that, inasmuch as
the road is a requirement. It is not an option and the only
point of the hearing would be to consider how the road goes
through, and that will be taken up at the required
Environmental Preservation Board hearing subsequent to a
Second Reading if this project is approved. We would
however, point out that, any approval by the board prior to
this would best be discounted by the Commission due to the
fact, that they had not seen the two lane road prior to this
time.
Mayor Ferre: All right, are we ready to start, on the other
side? Mr. Treister, do you want to say something before we
get, started, or do you want, to reserve it all for later, or
what? You want to say one thing on the record?
Mr. Ken Treister: Since we are handing out letter, Mr.
Mayor and Commissioners, we also sent, a letter to the
Planning Advisory Board describing the reinforcement, of the
hammock that we propose to do after hopefully, we get
approval, and I would like to just submit, those letters to
the Commission, copies of which were in the files.
cy
k%
t
_., ... Y
ld 11 1 November 15, 1984
Mayor Ferre: Thank you. Now, on the Commodore Bay order of
speakers proposed, I have been given a suggested list of
speakers who are in opposition and I will read it into the
k,
record and then we will see how many other speakers wish to
be heard that are not part of this speaker's bureau, and
then we will take it from there. Speakers are Huber
Parsons, who will introduce miscellaneous legal procedural -
Kark Muench, Citizens's traffic; Ken Bynem, Traffic Expert;
j
David McCrea, environmental and other issues; Linda Dan,
Citizens Parks; Monk Terry park and other items; Mike
Simonoff, Grove and architectural items; Joanne Holshouser,
—
Grove items; Carol Kniseley, Grove items; Thelma Altshuler,
-
Grove items; Jim McMasters, Grove items; David Doheny,
miscellaneous Grove items; and Janet Cooper, legal items.
Then to close up and sum up, Marjory Stoneman Douglas.
Mr. Jack Rice: Mr. Mayor, they have agreed ...
Mayor Ferre: You don't look like Marjory Stoneman Douglas
to me!
.
Mr. Rice: No, I must, say I am not! I wish I was, I would
probably have a lot, more influence! I understand that they
are going to let me and my experts speak second after the
introductory speaker.
Mayor Ferre: Okay, in other words Parsons, you speak, is
that, it? So in other words, we have Rice as the second
speaker. All right.
Mr. Rice: And my zoning expert is Acton
Mayor Ferre: And your zoning expert, Acton. Okay.
a
Mr. Rice: Action with Acton.
Mayor Ferre: Okay, Mr. Treister.
•:
(INAUDIBLE BACKGROUND COMMENTS NOT ENTERED INTO PUBLIC
z;
RECORD)
Mayor Ferre: I think that the fairness of this whole thing
is that it be balanced. You will have an equal opportunity
and whether you divide it amongst, the same number of people
or get twice as many or half is your problem. You organize
and I will be happy to do the same thing for you. All
right, now, I will add Grady Simkins - is that right?
Where, after you, Joanne? All right, are we ready to start?
Mr. Huber Parsons: No, Mr. Mayor, I would like to raise a
procedural point with you.
a
Mayor Ferre: All right sir, go ahead.
X
Mr. Parsons: I am Huber Parsons. I believe that the
Applicant has the obligation and burden of going first.
Mayor Ferre: He wants a procedural question - go ahead.
Mr. Parsons: I believe the Applicant has the responsibility
of going forward on the matter. After all, it is the
Applicant seeking major changes. I think the Applicant,
should go forward and I think the opponent should reserve
the right, to rebut. That was the thing applied for.
^
f
Mayor Ferre: Mr. Parsons, that is correct. Let me tell you
�r,
that historically I try to run a loose operation here and
},
let, everybody have a say so that nobody feels cheated, and I
want to tell you that I don't, go on this thing about
_Y,,
ld 112 November 15, 1984
t 0
rebuttal and then the other party doesn't have a chance. We
have speaker rebuttals, counter -rebuttals and counter -
counter rebuttals and believe me, in an important, issue like
this, I will not deny somebody the opportunity to have their
say, so everybody will have an opportunity to speak. I
think procedurally that you are right and I think that the
proponents should present, their case and you have the
opportunity to answer and then we will get, into the
rebuttals and Ken, to you and to your associates, we will
keep careful time and everyone will have equal opportunity
to say what they have to, okay?
Mr. Rice: Could I just add the name Norma Post onto the
list, of opponents in case she gets here in time?
Mayor Ferre: I will not, deny anybody the right to speak.
Mr. Post, Mrs. Post, Ms. Post, or anybody else.
Mayor Ferre: Yes, Ma'am? You want to postpone? Well, I am
afraid probably the Applicant, probably wouldn't want that.
Now, do you want to postpone, Mr. Treister?
Mr. Treister: No, sir.
Mayor Ferre: Well, I am sorry. Proceed.
INAUDIBLE BACKGROUND COMMENTS.
Mayor Ferre: Mrs. Douglas votes twice. Mr. Treister only
votes once.
Mr. Treister: Mr. Mayor, members of the Commission and
Ladies and Gentlemen: I will try to make our presentation
very short and is it procedurally proper, Mr. Mayor, to
limit, our remarks more or less to new items and then have a
chance, if items come up on opponents that we would have a
chance to answer on that.
Mayor Ferre: Absolutely. You will have that opportunity
and I would so advise the speakers that please do not go
through this thing in a repetitious kind of a way. If
somebody else has already said it, don't repeat the same
thing fifteen times.
Mr. Treister: Well, I am going to ask my friends here who
are proponents to keep their remarks short and to new issues
to expedite the hearing. Just, to summarize our position, we
are proposing to build a mixed use center in the village
center of Coconut, Grove. We do that with great concern with
the importance of this property to the village. We want to
do the following four things. We want to preserve the
hammock and reinforce it. Number two, we want to create a
subsidized artist center that, would bring arts back to the
village center. Three, we want to have a continuation of
Commodore Plaza from the roads to the waterfront, bringing
shops and restaurants to that public street.. That street
would be open to the public and would be the first
commercial street in the County to allow people to shop,
walk and eat along a public street, to the water's edge.
Fourth, we want to bring apartments, 197 apartments above
these restaurants and shops in a low rise, or three story
fashion above the shops, which bring needed people back to
the City of Miami. The City of Miami wants people downtown.
It, wants people in Brickell Avenue. It needs people in
Coconut, Grove. There is a great fear we have of the de-
population of Coconut Grove as apartments are torn down, as
people are forced to leave by office buildings and other
construction. I think it is very important, as a Planner
that we have people living in the village center. And last,
we want to link the village center, the Playhouse and
ld
113 November 15, 1984
Commodore Plaza with the park system. All of these are
very, very positive things that are going to enhance the
City and the Village of Coconut Grove. We have worked now
for almost a year on this project, with the Planning
Department. We are very proud of their endorsement. We
have agreed to almost every condition that is asked of us.
Now, on new issues. First, I would like to report. that.
traffic is very impor+.ant t.o us. It is important to the
success of our project.. It is important. to the future of
Coconut Grove. In addition to David Plummer, we have added
t.wo other traffic consultants - not. only to help us decide
whether it is a viable project., but. help the City. We have
added Miles Moss as a traffic consultant, who is here. We
have asked Joe Rice to join our team, who is the traffic
consultant that already did studies for the City of Miami
and Coconut. Grove. We have three traffic consultants who
all have concurred that our project, will not deter or add to
considerably the traffic in the village center, but in some
ways will actually benefit, us by the inclusion of a traffic
light on Main Highway, which we will build, by the inclusion
of parking which we will, provide, eliminating the need for
searching for parking and bringing people living in the
village center - -.hose people who live in our project can
walk to the Commodore Plaza, can walk the Playhouse, can
walk to their boats in Bayfront Park. In addition to that,
we are very-oncerned with the hammock, and we had a very
fine hammock consultant, Mr. George Allen, who is a very
famous consultant and the head of the Association for
`
Preservation of Hammocks in Florida this coming year. We
have added a Dr. Manly Boss, who is a professor of botany at
Florida Atlantic University, 30 years a botanist, a
professor, doctor, and a famous botanist who has studied
this project and concurs with George Allen's assessment of
l
the hammock. In summary, George Allen told the Tree
Preservation Board that in eight years, if this property is
left fallow and it stays without reinforcement, this hammock
will die. There are so many foreign plants and what is
called exotics coming in that this hammock will die. Dr.
Boss agrees. We are going to, and we have put it as part. of
}'
our condition of acceptance, a major replanting of the
hammock. We are going to plant I forget how many major
trees, many minor trees, fern, all types of native plants,
eliminating the poison wood and some of the exotics. We are
�.`
going to give back to the community a hammock which is
having problems now and these same exotics would spread to
the Barnacle and other hammock areas, so we are going to
help preserve that. So, I just wanted for the record to say
we have three traffic consultants that concur that: traffic
is not, going to be seriously affected by us. Number two, we
have added to our development, plan a third access along the
eastern property line, which would give us three lanes of
traffic. Third, we have gotten another consultant, as I
said, to reinforce our belief that the hammock is a good and
worthwhile area t.o preserve. Now, there are a couple of
little points that I would like to put on the record that.
are, I think, typographical errors in the major use permit, -
which we agreed to, by the way. Everything Jack Luft said
that we promised, we promise again. We will do whatever we
can and we will do whatever isn't. even there if it is right.
"
We live here. We have major property values here. We love
the Grove, we want. to do what, is right, and without
exception, we have agreed to anything the City has asked us
to do. There is 197 units in our proposal, not. 195. The
required parking, because of the reduction of restaurants,
is 351, not. 396. In addition, I would like to answer Mr.
Dawkins' request. about the wall. We do not, want a wall.
The church, I think, according to the Bishop's letter, and I
1984 ld 114 November 15,
0
think there are representatives of the church here, do not
want a wall. We were told by the Planning Department that.
some of the parents of the (T A P E 13) church school wanted
a twelve foot high solid wall between our property and the
church. The reason I asked, and it was given that, they
though*. that the artist pavilions, or the people *.hat would
go to the ar*ist's pavilions would somehow jeopardize the
comfort and safety, well being of the children. The City
said "Would you, if the City requested, put an eight foot.
wall there?" Our answer is yes. If you demand that we put
an eight. foot wall there, we want, to get. your blessings. We
will do whatever that takes. I think the mentality of
putting a wall - a twelve, or eight. or ten foot. wall between
our project and the adjoining church is sad. We have a
beautiful hammock. We are going to have beautiful artist.
pavilions. We are going to have beautiful artists working
there. It is going to be a beautiful thing for the children
and for the community, and I think if I had a child there, I
would really want the resource of an Anita May lead artist
school land pavilion there, so Commissioner Dawkins, we will
build it if you insist, but, we would rather not, and I think
the church would rather not, also. I think the Commission
asked us for three things at the last meeting when we were
fortunate enough to get your preliminary blessing. One was
a third access, a third lane. We have submitted to the
Planning Department, and they have approved this, an
alternate road that would be parallel to the artist
pavilion. It would be entirely on our property. It would
be one lane. It. would parallel the property line and it
would join either into the circle, and into the parking, or
it would go though the brick covered area that we had under
the canopy of trees here to go into the property, so we now
i
have three lanes. Two is our main lane, and the third lane
is the auxiliary lane. We are prepared to do that, and that
is part of our development master use permit requirement.
We are going to do it, along with all of the other things
that we promised. In addition to that there was concern
about fire and police access. We checked with the Fire
Department, they gave us a letter saying that this access
through the main road, which is the existing road, only
+'
It
widened, is adequate. We would have the police and fire use
this lane. They could also use the second lane. And in
addition to that, they would welcome and we would of course,
encourage them to use, in emergency time only, the boardwalk
that we will build through Peacock Park and have access
-
through the waterfront. That would only be used by
emergency vehicles and, obviously they would have the right
to do that. The third item was, what about someone in our
two lane road if they got a flat tire or some way and wanted
to pull off to the side. We met with the Planning
Department and this sidewalk that parallels our road would
have a convenient place for cars to pull off. There isn't.
any concern that the village has that we don't have. We
want the traffic to flow right. We want our people to get.
`
in and our of the property. We want the police and fire to
do it. This, if we get your blessing today, we are
promising you not only what we promised in the past, but
will continue to make those promises because the value of
this property for the community is our value. We promised,
-
as you know, to build this art center and we are excited
about. it. Just let me go over that. because we have met many
times now with the groups. The Coconut, Grove Association
that puts on the art festival is part, of our team. Juanita
May, who heads the Metropolitan Museum is part of our team.
Jean Masson, and many, many of the artists - they are here
today if you want to hear some of them. What, we want to do
is bring artists back in a subsidized fashion to Coconut.
Grove. This won't. happen if this project doesn't happen.
Rates on Commodore Plaza to Mayfair up to $40 a foot. plus
maintenance. We are going to have subsidized rent that will
ld 115 November 15, 1984
be very, very low and at cost. and therefore will allow
artist's galleries and public service, non-profit. artists
groups to participate. We want to reconst.it•ut.e the Grove
House, one of the great assets to Coconut Grove that we
lost . We are going to do that. We are going to have a
series of artist's pavilions, sculpture, pottery, painting,
ceramics, glass blowing, open to the public - real artists
working. They will be able to sell their work. You will be
able to see it.. It. will be a tremendous asse4. and when our
Publicity Department in the City of Miami and the Miss
Universe contest and everything else which we are so proud
of, telling the world about Miami - one of the things that
we are going to tell them is that we have one of the unique
artists communities in Coconut. Grove, and we have a home
here. We are going to give it a subsidized basis, a home
for Pace, so we can have street, musicians and street people
working out, of Coconut Grove for the whole community. The
next item that I would like to just touch on, which is new
is this idea of selling this as a park. Forgetting my
developer's hat for a minute, my citizen's hat.. I think
that this is a good project for the community. I think that
it would be a sad day if we took this project which is open
to the public - it says public access, and take badly needed
public funds and make it into what, would probably be a
passive park. We need the funds from the State to help buy
the Deering Estate. If there are funds, I would suggest
that. the Naval Reserve Training Center, which is a potential
problem, be used for the acquisition of that. The purpose
of State funds to buy a park, in my opinion, should be where
we want to gain public access, where we want to preserve a
site that would be used not for the public use and convert
it to public use. Here we have myself and Howard Scharlin,
Jerry Ketcher, developers who say "We are going to make this
a public activity center at, our expense. We are going to
preserve the Hammock and have a tram go through it. We are
going to create an art center, which I don't think the State
realizes that they will be robbing, or taking away from the
City. I don't think really that the State, and I know they
haven't called us, realizes that this would be taking away
public access, would be taking away an art center, would be
j,
adding to the tax burden, obligations which we said we would
do. We would reinstate the hammock. We would maintain the
roads. We would put in the tram. We would do the
improvements to Peacock Park. We will install the light at
Main Highway. Now, we are not; doing this only for
ourselves, we are doing it to get your blessing, but one
hand washes the other. Private industry, civic people,
people that live here, hopefully people with sensitivity
that we try to be, should work together and not burden the
taxpayer with type of expense, but wouldn't it be sad if
this becomes a passive park, and we don't have a village
that now opens to the bay, that you can't walk on a shopping
street. to the waterfront., that visitors may not be able to
go in here because the State Park isn't open all the time -
in fact, it is walled in and open only certain days, and
whatever else, and the bottom line is, we don't want to sell
it, to them. We think as civic citizens and as developers we
want to develop this as a public amenity. We think putting
people in the village center is important, and I don't think
the State wants to rob the City of Miami of giving these
people the opportunity. You can",, believe how many people
in the village have called me and said they would like an
y
apartment here. I think the convenience of living on the
water, having a boat, walking to the Playhouse, having
breakfast. in the Village Center with certain people is very,
'1
very, important and I think this Commission, this City, and
the citizens here should say "We don't., want to 'be the last.
R'
person in Coconut Grove, we want to bring other people".
Everybody wants to be the last person and draw up the
brid e. I think it. is health to have g y people walking the
ld 116 November 15, 1984
t 0
st.ree*.s in the Village Center. We have a very healthy
village. We have got to reinforce it by these, hopefully
type of projects. Basically, t.ha', is the ...
Mr. Parsons: I would like to request that that drawing be
made a part of the record.
Mayor Ferre: Tha+. is fine. There is no objection to that.
Mr. Treister: All our drawings are part of the record. All
of drawings have been submitted to the City. Everything we
have is public and everything from here on out is public.
One las* general comment and then I would rather just.
listen. We are not, coming for a building permit today. We
are here a'. a preliminary hearing on the general concept
that, we are offering. We will have to go to the Tree,
Preservation and Historic Board, which we welcome, and we
will do it right. We will welcome anybody to come and see
the *sees being relocated, or new *sees planted. We will
have to get sewer, water, police, fire, Building Department
approval. All the things that we are going to do we are
going to do for ourselves and for the City because it is a
team effort. We welcome the work with the Church that we
have worked with in the past.. We worked with the City. We
worked with the Parks Department.. Miami is a great. Ci*.y.
Coconut. Grove is the most fabulous place probable on the
eastern seaboard. It, is either going to grow positively or
negatively, but it is not going to stand still. I will
pledge and we have tried in the past and we certainly will
do in the future, to do everything possible for the
residents, for the people that live in homes. We want to
keep the South Grove residential. We want to keep the North
Grove residential. We want to build developments that are
sympathetic in concert with the village. We are partners
with the City. At Peacock Park we are going to provide
parking for that. We are going to provide access to the
public. We are going to work with the church. We are going
to create an art community that is going to be an asset, and
I think it is just one of the best things that I have ever
been associated with and I pledge today that if we can get
your blessing, we will make outstanding. We will make it
some thing that everyone will be proud of, including all of
the citizens of Coconut. Grove. Thank you.
Mayor Ferre: All right, we will now begin, I assume, with
the opponents and then Mr. Treister, I will give you more
time later on, if you want to, as the opposition makes
points, you may want to have some of your experts testify.
I think one of your senior advisors is whispering something
into your ear. Ready? All right, the first spokesperson is
Mr. Parsons. Mr. Parsons, let us find out - how much time
has elapsed now?
Ms. Hirai: 17 minutes.
Mayor Ferre: 17 minutes, all right. Now, I am pretty sure
that the 15 or 20 speakers will take more than 17 minutes.
I would like to keep all of you together, if possible,
within an hour, and then you will have more time later on, I
am sure, to rebut, but. I would hope that you could all make
your statements within an hour. Do you think that might be
possible? You seen to be the introducer here.
Mr. Parsons: I am sure we can try, Mr. Mayor.
Mayor Ferre: I would be grateful and I am sure everybody
else would and I think Marjory Stoneman Douglas will be
grateful too, as she is your anchor person here.
Mr. Parsons:
We will try and do our best., Mr. Mayor.
ld
117
November 15, 1984
Mayor Ferre: Sir.
INAUDIBLE BACKGROUND COMMENTS.
Mayor Ferre: All right, do you want to get. Dr. Ryan up now
to speak? Yes, sir. Are you a proponent?
INAUDIBLE BACKGROUND COMMENTS.
Mayor Ferre: See, the problem that we are going to have is
that there are an awful lot of people that have dinner
appointments and all of that, and if you have an emergency
like you have to catch an airplane or you have to go to a
hospital, or you have a trial to at.tend or something, or a
funeral or something, then I would accept that, but I really
don'*, think that it is valid because somebody has a dinner
appointment, to make everybody kind of sit, still, so if you
have an honest, to goodness emergency, I would accept it.
Mr. Keith Swenson: Mr. Mayor, if I may - I am Keith
Swenson. I am a member of the vestry of the church. I do
have perhaps a part of ...
Mayor Ferre: Is the vestry meeting tonight?
Mr. Swenson: No, Monday night. Part of an answer to the
question that was posed before about the Bishop's letter,
and unfortunately, I do have to leave.
Mayor Ferre: Go ahead.
Mr. Swenson: For the record, I am Keith Swenson. My
address is 1635 Nethia Drive, City of Miami. I stated I am
a member of the vestry of St. Stephen's Church. I am the
junior warden of the vestry, which means I am essentially
responsible for property, or the real property owned by the
church, that occupied by the church and of course, the
�!
church school. I also serve as a member of the Board of
Trustees of St. Stephen's Day School. I am here basically
to qualify and to perhaps to add some light to the statement
or to the letter that was written by Bishop Schofield. I
a
believe that Jack Luft, stated the position clearly, but
basically to reiterate that, the Bishop is stating that the
responsibility for determining what happens on, or let's say
to St. Stephen's property is properly with the vestry. The
vestry has not met, or had the opportunity to consider the
wall, per se. However, about a year ago the vestry adopted
j
a statement, and I would read just the two or three
sentences that. I believe shed some light upon what the
vestry's probably feeling about the wall would be. "We must,
open our resources to the community. As we provide our
educational resources in a spiritual context through St.
5
Stephen's Day School, we must make our pastoral resources
more visible and available. We must share the physical
beauty of our courtyards and spaces, a quite oasis in a
developing cit.y." By no means did we envision that we would
r
want to see walls constructed around St. Stephen's A wall
that was proposed originally to be as high as that clock up
there, but then I understand has been lowered to something
betwen the clock and the seal. I don't believe that it will
be in our best interests to have that occur, but I would
suggest to you and the Commission in considering this
project, that. if that is a matter that. you are concerned
about., it, is a matter that. you will want. to make conditioned
upon, and hopefully your approval of Mr. Treister's and Mr.
Scharlin's project., that you condition your approval upon
letting the subject of the matter be more properly discussed
between St. Stephen's Day School parents and St.. Stephen's
vestry. Let that be discussed there. We will deal with
ld 118 November 15, 1984
those matters and so that you will have to be concerned on
that. subject. Thank you very much.
Mayor Ferre: Thank you, Mr. Swenson. All right, now, are
we ready to start.?
Mr. Parsons: Dr. Ryan is back.
Mayor Ferre: Dr. Ryan.
Dr. Una Ryan: I am Dr. Una Ryan. My address is 3420
Poinciana Avenue in Coconut Grove. I am a long standing
resident of Coconut Grove. I am an elected member of the
vestry of S* . Stephen's Church and I also serve on the Board
of Trustees of St.. Stephen's School. My last child is still
at, St. Stephen's School. I know it is unreasonable to
expect you to remember, but I spoke to you at this previous
hearing, and I am not, going to make the same points over
again, but I and many members of the parish of St. Stephen's
Church are strongly in favor of the Commodore Bay Project
and I think that it: would be a mistake to feel that the
issue is really between development and no development. I
think the issue is between a selfish development, or one
that really will enhance the beauty of Coconut Grove. When
Mr. Treister bought, the property, as with any work of art or
treasure, he could have had the option of knocking this out
for a privileged few; in fact, he chose the option of
opening it to the community, and thereby in my opinion,
enhancing the safety and the beauty of Coconut Grove.
Previously, without trespassing it seemed very difficult
difficult to citizens or visitors to gain access either to
the hammock or to the bay and it is for these reasons that.
as a citizen of the Grove, I very much welcome this new
opportunity, but now to speak as a member, a parishioner of
St. Stephen's Church, I like many of the parishioners,
support the Commodore Bay Project because it coincides with
the long standing plan and goals of the church, and this was
to open up the church to the community and to try thereby to
attract new parishioners. Now, for this, we obviously
welcome the advent of new residents as neighbors. The
church already has a park on one of its sides, and the
prospect of parishioners and visitors having access to the
beautiful hammock and to the bay through a commercial
development seems to me to complete the picture as far as
the church is concerned. Now, Mr. Treister's plan is one of
vistas and vision, and that immediately brings me to the
question of the wall. Obviously during construction I am in
favor of some sort of a fence to protect the children and I
am not opposed to a friendly kind of four foot wall on which
the children and other people could sit, but it, seems to me
that an eight., ten or twelve foot wall is really just an
invitation to ugly graffiti and is really a symbol of a much
more unenlightened society. As the Bishop pointed out. in
his let.fer to you, Mayor Ferre, and to the Commissioners,
one sentence that Commissioner Dawkins didn't read is that
the primary concern of the church is that Mr. Treister's
development would enhance the hammock south of the church.
The wall would be another barrier to the openness of the
natural surroundings. Since neither neighbor, the church,
nor Commodore Bay want the wall and I think it would be a
mistake to listen to people who do not represent, either of
those two neighbors, so I would like just to finish by
saying urge you t.o support, the Commodore Bay Project, but.
without. insisting upon a permanent or high wall. Thank you.
Mayor Ferre: All right, Mr. Parsons.
Mr. Huber Parsons: Mr. Mayor and Commissioners, my name is
Huber R. Parsons, Jr. My offices are located at. 799
Brickell Plaza in Miami. My wife and I previously lived in
ld
119 November 15, 1984
t
Coconut. Grove on Aviation Avenue. Currently we have two
children enrolled in St.. Stephen's Episcopal Day School,
which is, as previously noted, located north of and
immediately adjacent and contiguous to the proposed
Commodore Bay Project. I do want to speak in opposition to
{
this proposed Commodore Bay Project. It is truly
regrettable that. this novel, architecturally striking and
innovative development, is not proposed for a suitable site.
The crux of this issue is not, per se, the scheme, the
aesthetics, the plan or the uses of the proposed
development, or for that, matter, the proven track record,
and how regarding which the development group is held, but
rather, the impact, on first., the site itself, and second,
the surrounding area. Coconut, Grove and especially central
Coconut. Grove is special and indeed, fragile area and all
_
that truly remains of what continues to be referred to as
the Village of Coconut. Grove with its at.tendent street
lights is that which will be most, and most negatively
impacted by this massive development, with in terms of sheer
building size, is as I unders*.and it, in excess of 25% of
the size of the new Southeast. Financial Center Tower.
Consequently, you will be hearing a great deal this
afternoon and in no particular order, concerning the impact
of this proposed development on traffic movement., or
stagnation thereof through central Coconut. Grove, and
especially on Main Highway and Commodore Plaza. The impact.
of this proposed development on sidewalk street lights on
Main Highway and/or on Commodore Plaza, the impact of this
proposed developed on the residential, scenic, and
-
historical corridor located along the bay to the southwest,
the impact of this proposed development on real property
taxes in the area, and especially on that economic and
demographically fragile area to the west, of the development.
across Main Highway. The impact of this proposed development
on the the provision of city services, including police,
fire rescue and sanitary sewer, finally, the interest of the
State of Florida in acquiring this property for park land.
For these sorts of reasons, it is apparent that a
substantial majority of citizens, not directly or indirectly
connected with the development, group or with real estate
interests in the area, oppose the proposed development. I
will very briefly address three principal points. First,
the matter that the applications are fatally flawed. For
legal reasons, the Applications for each of the zoning
changes and the proposed major use special permit are
defective. Among the reasons for the foregoing, and they
will be addressed more specifically by a later speaker or
speakers, are the following: one, the applications do not
conform to the purposes and intents set forth in the
ordinances which was enacted which resulted in Article 28 of
the Zoning Ordinance of the City of Miami. Two, the
applications which are before the City Commission today were
not complete at the time that, they should have been final.
Three, taken as a whole, that which is being sought
constitutes spot zoning. Four, the application for major
use special permit., do not contain a developmental impact
study as specifically required by the provisions of
Subsection 2802.3.3 of the Zoning Ordinance, reference is
and this connection specifically made to the basic
categories of public services and environment. Five, the
application have been materially, substantive, and other
ways been amended and supplemented - for example, this site
plan that is here before you today with this third lane just
y
appeared in the last ten or fifteen minutes. Since they
were originally filed, so as to make those defective and
'j
both in violation of public notice requirement. Six, the
mat.t.er is not, right. for Commission disposition on account of
the fact that the City Commission has not yet received the
final recommendations called for in Section 2803 and
elsewhere, of the Zoning Ordinance. These and other
ld 120 November 15, 1984
s -
I
defects, non-conformat.ies, and inconsist.eneies indicate and
require that these agenda items, including both rezoning
matters and the major use special permit, no*. proceed, and
be denied today. Second, the matter of the Heritage
Conservation Board referral and recommendation - since the
proposed development as now materially constituted has not
been approved or authorized by the Heritage Conservation
Board, the application, including both rezoning matters and
the matter of the major use special permit cannot proceed.
Consequen+.ly as with respect to this item alone, the hearing
today should be deferred until the Ci+.y Commission receives
proper notification that, the Heritage Conservation Board has
considered the proposed development and made a
recommendation. In summary, the development site is an
environmental preservation district, Number 46-5, and has,
at its westerly extremity, all along its perimeter, abutting
Main Highway, a magnificent, virgin hammock. Apparently the
Commodore Bay Development. has was then proposed early last
summer was taken before the Heritage Conservation Board;
however, subsequent to that hearing and just on the very eve
of this matter coming before the City Commission September
20th, a dramatic change occurred with respect to the
proposed development. and then it was revealed that due to
the non -availability of the proposed three or four traffic
lanes going through St. Stephen's property to the north,
accessing both McFarland and Main Highway, all ingress and
egress to the project, would be to the westerly boundary of
the property on Main Highway, consequently through the
hammock and the environmental preservation district.
Obviously, this considerable material change negates the
effect of any prior consideration as to this matter given by
the Heritage Conservation Board and specifically its
resolution HC-8422 dated June 19, 1984. The Zoning
Ordinance, the provisions of Chapter 17, entitled
Environmental Preservation of the City Code, and other
provisions of law require that there be a proper
recommendation of the Heritage Conservation Board, to the
City Commission, whether or not followed by the City
Commission, prior to any final action being taken by the
City Commission. Consequently, these matters, should for
this reason alone, should be if nothing else, deferred until
proper public notice and proper compliance with the law, the
proposed development has been considered and acted upon by
the Heritage Conservation Board. Third and final,
Commissioners, is the matter of the request for analysis,
investigation, and a report by the City Administration, as
with respect with denial of public access to public
decisional process, and to a lack of due process of law.
the Commission may recall that, at the hearings held, in
other words, the First Reading on September 20th, at least,
two members of this City Commission inquired of the City
Planning Department, whether due to ingress, egress changes
and alterations, this matter would again be referred to the
Heritage Conservation Board. That occurred toward the
conclusion of the Commission meeting. The question that. I
recall then, either stated or clearly assumed a hearing
before the Heritage Conservation Board prior to this matter
coming on for this hearing today before the City Commission.
The response by the representative of the Planning
Department to the inquiries made by the Commission member
was in the affirmative. Subsequent, to the City Commission
meeting of September 20, 1984, but prior to October 16,
1984, principle representatives of the Planning Department.
specifically represented to several concerned citizens who
are known to have an opponent's view of the proposed
development, that the proposed development., as modified,
would not - I repeat. not. - be taken to the Heritage
Conservation Board prior to the next relevant, meeting of the
City Commission. The stated reasons were that one, the sign
was not lawfully required; two, no contrary indication or
ld 121 November 15, 1984
response, had indeed been given to the inquiries made by the
members of the City Commission; and three, there was
inadequate time, due to public notice requirements, for the
matter to be placed upon the agenda. Interested and
S concerned citizens in independent, reliance upon these
several segments made by the Ci+.y Planning Department
represent. a*.ives, did not, attend the meeting of the Heritage
Conservation Board held on Tuesday, October 16, 1984. Not
withstanding the statements made to those citizens, three
things have in fact occurred which are irrefutable. One,
the agenda of the Heritage Conservation Board did not
contain any reference to the proposed development, Two, and
interoffice memorandum of the Planning Department, which I
have, and will present for the record, dated October 16,
1984, was delivered to the Heritage Conservation Board, and
presumably, al+.hough I do not. know this, to each of its
members; and three, at. the meeting of the Heritage
Conservation Board held on Tuesday, October 16, 1984, a
principal representative of the Planning Department
addressed the subject matter of the proposed development.
In connection with this one, I have a tape with me today
which I will introduce into the record of that meeting of
the Heritage Conservation Board. The factual circumstances
outlined above in relation to the denial of interested
persons of access +.o the decision making process, *.he matter
of consensus building were lacking thereof, and consequently
the due process of law.
Mayor Ferre: Mr. Parsons, excuse me for +.he interruption,
but my colleague says that there are a lot of people here on
the Overtown Parkwest. matter. We will not, be hearing any
other issue, I don't think, but that, one in particular was
deferred this morning, and I am sorry that we didn't repeat
again this evening. We will not be discussing Park West
Overtown. There was a request by Commissioner Perez that
all of these items be deferred and that a special committee
be appointed - a five member committee to study these things
and recommend them before the December 20th hearing, so
those of you that are here on other items, you of course may
remain, but it is my opinion that we will not, conclude
anything other than what, we are doing right. now.
Mr. Plummer: Mr. Mayor, for the record, that is Items 23
through 28 were deferred.
Mayor Ferre: Items 17, 19, 21, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27 and 28.
Correct?
Mr. Plummer: Correct..
Mayor Ferre: We are back to you, Mr. Parsons, and I
apologize for the interruption.
Mr. Parsons: No problem, Mr. Mayor and I will be concluded
here in about a minute and one-half. These factual
circumstances noted above are in terms of a government's
relationship to its citizens - outrageous and require
redress. It would appear a proper and useful function that
the or a planning department recommend on a professional
basis and approval, whether or not with conditions, or
y denial of a particular proposed development. It is somewhat
arguable whether the principal spokesperson for the Planning
Department., in connection with the particular development
should, as has obviously proved here in earlier public
hearings to be the case, be a advocate of a proposed
development.. In fact, no less of an advocate then the
applicant. However, when a department and/or a public
official commits acts and omissions which deny rightful
access to the public decision making process, such acts and
omissions should not be condoned, and should be addressed.
ld 122 November 15, 1984
Consequently, this respectfully requested and petitioned
j that the City Commission direct, and authorize the
Administration through the office of the City Manager to
review, investigate and report on these matters, or in the
event that such a review and invest. igat ion is under way,
conf.inue with the same and report, findings to the City
j Commission. Please note in this connection that there is no
statement or implica*ion here by me made, or which may be
inferred that there has been any kind of wrongdoing by the
City Commission or any member thereof, whereby the Office of
the City Manager, or any member thereof, or by personally,
the Director of the Planning Department.. it is desired by
this request. that our public institutions by strengthened
and utilized such as to allow confidence in our governmental
processes. Surely non of us wants less. In conclusion, the
proposed applications cannot go forward on account of legal
defects. Thank you for your consideration of these matters.
Mayor Ferre: All right,, Mr. Parsons, I thank you. That
took 13 minutes.
Mr. Plummer: Are you going +.o ask for an opinion of the
City Attorney?
Mayor Ferre: Yes, I think that requires it.
Mr. Plummer: Because he has raised some heavy questions.
There had better be some heavy answers.
INAUDIBLE BACKGROUND COMMENTS
Mayor Ferre: You know, tha*. is very nice of you to sit out
there and talk. I didn't hear a word you said. It is not
on the record, which makes i*. illegal, and later on we get.
into problems. Now, if you want to speak, come up and get.
to that microphone. That puts it on the record. Your name
and address for the record.
Mr. David McCrea: Thank you, Mr. Mayor, you are quite
right. Mr. Mayor, my name is David McCrea. My address is
6755 Royal Palm Drive. My office address is 777 Brickell
Avenue. I am here as an attorney for my father, Sloan
McCrea who lives at 1990 Tigertail Avenue. The point that I
wanted to make to Commissioner Plummer was, we have a number
of legal points that various of our speakers will be
—
addressing, and perhaps in the interests of efficiency in
letting the City Attorney hear everything we have to say, we
might defer it for a few minutes.
Mayor Ferre: Do you want this item deferred until you have
had an opportunity?
Mr. McCrea: In terms of having the City Attorney address
the specific legal questions that we have.
Mayor Ferre: Okay, are you going t.o bring up further legal
questions?
Mr. McCrea: Yes, sir.
7
Mayor Ferre: Well, I think it is appropriate for you to be
the next speaker, then, unless ... I think, since we have,
obviously some pretty heavy legal things that have been
brought up, that we get all of the legal stuff out and then
the City Attorney will have to deal with the legal aspects.
Mr. Jack R. Rice, Jr.: I am Jack R. Rice, Jr., attorney for
Charles J. McCormick. My address is 2424 N. W. 1st Street,
Miami, Florida. Mr. McCormick's address is 3370 Royal Road.
r.:
. He owns Lot14 Run Road plat, Book D, Page 253, lying
n. is
�i Jt_
`
A }
ld 123 November 15, 1984
easterly of Main Highway and soul.herly of Royal Road, shown
on the plat entitled the Royal Garden, plat book 20, page 3,
i Dade County, Florida, and it• is approximately 10 acres. Mr.
McCormick asks you to vote against this project. He has
resided, or his family has owned property in the Grove since
1900. His family has owned the property where he resides,
which is a short distance, approximately two blocks from the
site that is under discussion today. I have listened to Mr.
Treister, and he makes a great, argument, but the problem is,
he has got, a great project in the wrong place, and he is
taking advantage of Peacock Park, which is owned by the
public and the Barnacle, which is next, door, southerly of
him, for use of the people that. he is going to place in this
location, and I think that is contrary to public policy! We
can'*. be condemning property for public parks and public
uses and then put right. immediately between them, within
three and one-half feet. from the park on one side and three
and one-half feet from the Barnacle on other sides.
Mayor Ferre: Jack, I don't. mean to interrupt you, but you
know Mr. Parsons brought some pretty heavy legal arguments.
If you have got. ...
Mr. Rice: I have some more.
Mayor Ferre: Okay, but. you are talking about non -legal
issues now, and I would respectfully request that we now get:
to the legal aspects of it and then we can come back to the
arguments such as what you are now making.
Mr. Rice: Predicated upon the ordinance proposed by Mr.
Treister or the City by Mr. Luft, the RS-1.1 to RS-4 takes a
single family residential area and puts it in high apartment.
intensity. It is contrary to the RS-1.1 uniformity that has
been applied from Rickenbacker Causeway south to the south
City limits. It creates an unrelated district. There is
nothing in that area that supports Mr. Treister's
application. It., is out, of scale with the area because it.
increases and in institutes building bulk. There is no
change in condition from the south city limits to
e'
Rickenbacker Causeway tha*. would authorize this project as
contemplated under the ordinance. The building is 34 to 46
'
fee* above grade, and if you put this building in, I would
like to show you what will occur. He says he is going to
preserve the trees and he is going to put. more trees in
Peacock Park. He missed, because he is going to remove
practically every tree in the hammock. Why is he going to
remove every tree from three and one-half foot on the
southerly side to three and one-half foot, on the northerly
side? ... all between that, area is going to be a building
bulk. He is going to take everything out of there to build
the building. Now are you going to preserve the hammock and
the flora if he is going to remove all of that? I think
some of it. goes down two stories under the ground. In
addition, on the outer perimeter here, he has arts and
crafts and other types of buildings. How are you going to
preserve any trees there? The only trees that I know that
he may be preserving is in this center area, right here
towards the bay, there appears to be a circular set of
trees, but everything else is going to have to be removed.
r
Now, Number two, why is Mr. Treister permitted to set, back
less than 50 feet, from the water? What is there about this
project, that. permits him to have a variance from the 50 feet.
setback from the water? There is nothing that I could see
in the record that. would justify this unless you just, want,
to give it to him because he is a nice guy. There is
nothing to support, that provision. Thirdly, I have not
checked the F.A.R. of this site, but. I have been told that.
j
the F.A.R. includes bay bottom land, and you know under the
1968 constitution the State of Florida owns the bay bottom
ld 124 November 15, 1984
land, unless somebody has given him title to it. by deed in
the State of Florida, and there is nothing in this record
where I see, or where I could find that he has a deed from
the State of Florida for the bay bottom land which is
included in the F.A.R.! Secondly, there is a coral rock
fence running along there. There are two surveys, one of
them, I understand was done in the 60's that shows that, this
coral rock fence belongs to the City of Miami. He has
included that in his F.A.R. It might not be much, but, it, is
probably 500 square foot, or 1000 square foot that gives him
more building bulk in this area that he is entitled t.o. I
think the city has an obligation to determine what it owns
and to provide t.ha* any plans that is submitted by an
applicant., that they can't show on his plans an F.A.R. that
includes City property. By the way, I want to tell St.
Stephen's they need not, worry about, a wall, because they are
going to have the apartment house sticking up 46 feet.,
starting from the bay all the way down for 350 feet distance
and that doesn't include all of these little so-called shops
where all the artists are going to be doing something and
they had better be paying about $25 a square foot, or they
won't., be in there and they had better be making a lot of
money and on top of that, when they put this road in here, I
understand in order to keep from tearing up the foliage,
that they are going to to depress the road four foot. Well,
what foliage are they protecting? They are digging
everything out. there. There is no foliage left., unless what
they are protecting is what they are taking out and going to
be replacing it.. I am going to get to it! Hold it, hold
it.
Mayor Ferre: You are wandering and I asked you not to do
that, and I asked you to stick to legal arguments and you
are talking and foliage and cover and all of this kind of
stuff and you are entitled to say that, but please, stick to
the legal arguments now and I am going to ask Janet to do
the same thing and Mr. McCrea, and let.'s get on with legal
arguments now.
Mr. Rice: This will have a profound effect on other
properties, including my client's 10 acres. He doesn't want
to change it to commercial. He wants to keep it. single
family residential, and this application is going to grant
to a special person a change in zoning that nobody along the
bay front has ever enjoyed in the history of my life here,
from the time the City was inaugurated in 1896.
Mayor Ferre: You were here then?
Mr. Rice: No, but, I have been here a long time! We did it
differently then. We filled in the bay. Also under the
ordinance is the intent of Article 5, Section 500, reference
to neighborhood plans, commercial/residential P.D.'s
violates the planned development mixed use, as it introduces
intense commercial. In other words, it was intended that
when you have these P.D.'s, that you utilize it for the
existing zoning, which was residential. It creates a
residential intense use that towers over surrounding areas
and increases traffic. Article 1202, dealing with principal
and accessory use, says that. the zoning for the P.D. M/U
must be complimentary and compatible, zoning R-S.1 to
commercial is not compatible. It provides for a residential
use where there is no commercial or private property, and
there are no commercial on the surrounding private property
along the bay front. This is strictly spot, zoning. Under
Section 503, Article 5, you cannot modify setback in height
unless certain findings are set forth in the ordinance, and
you can't alter ratios or the F.A.R., and certainly there is
some playing around with the F.A.R.'s in this application.
The information provided does not, properly meet the
ld 125 November 15, 1984
w
4 ir
requirements of the ordinance, nor does it include all
information required under 510.2.3. The parking garage
occupies approximately 70% of the total grant site
underground parking and 28% of the site for building above
the garage. As to the resolution, itviolates the intent, of
the waterfront charter amendment. Two, the Commission
cannot amend comprehensive plans by major use special
permit.. You must follow Section 2804, amended by Ordinance
9649. I wan* go into the traffic study. We have somebody
else to do 'hat. Under 2802.3, the final application is not
sufficient. The general report impact study is sketchy and
provides inadequate information. It allows buildings three
and one-half feet. from the property line and there is no
substantial question as to who owns the coral rock fence.
One other thing, in looking at these plans and as set. forth
in the resolution, it sets a thirty-six foot height
limitation, but. I noticed penciled in on the plans, appears
to be ... forty-six to thirty-six ... penciled in on the
plan appears to be a penthouse, and I think we ought to get
that, straightened out there ought to be no penthouses
permitted under here. I ask the Commission to do the
following: I ask that you deny the application and if you
are going to let. him do anything with this project, that you
send it back to the Planning Director where the intensity of
the use is changed, that if you are going to have apartment
houses, or residential, it, ought to be as on the Switman
property to the south and that it not, be intense ... and by
the way, I want to tell you something else you are doing
here - you are allowing them 24,000 square feet of
restaurant space, which permits them to have six liquor
licenses. They are going to have more activity on this six
acres than you have anywhere in the Grove, starting with
McFarland Street over to Douglas Road. The intensity is
just tremendous! I don't think you have given that adequate
consideration. I don'*, think the Planning Department has
even given it a thought! I now have with Mr. George Acton,
who is the former Planning Director. He has a master's
degree in Urban Planning. He is a member of the Institute
of Certified Planners, a registered State of Florida
architect and a member of the American Institute of
Architects. He has 18 years experience as an urban planner
and he has been director of the City of Miami Planning
Department and consultant for preparation of the ordinance
that we now have under review. Mr. Acton.
Mayor Ferre: Jack, legal arguments ... I will recognize you
for other than legal arguments later on.
Mr. George Acton: I am going to address certain parts of
the ordinance, but I am not a lawyer, but I can speak to
certain parts that are ...
Mayor Ferre: You can, and I accept that, and I just ask you
not to tell us about, the foliage and the other things that.
are non -legal arguments. Go ahead, Mr. Acton.
Mr. Acton: Mr. Mayor, can I ask a question? You are going
to determine whether it is a legal argument, in the decision
to postpone this and if so, you will postpone it, otherwise
. . .
Mayor Ferre: I think you were listening very carefully. Go
ahead, Mr. Acton.
Mr. David McCrea: Mr. Acton has requested that. I precede
him as he is still in the process of organizing his
materials. Before I get. into the precise legal points that
I want, to make, I ought to say that my name is David B.
McCrea. My residence address is 6755 Royal Palm Drive. My
office address is 777 Brickell Avenue. I am here as an
Id 126 November 15, 1984
attorney for my father, Sloan McCrea who is a property owner
at, 1990 Tigertail Avenue and I also appear as the father of
two children who attend the St.. Stephen's School. Before I
get into the precise legal points tha+. I would like to
make...
Mayor Ferre: No, no, no.
Mr. McCrea: Wait., the over all concept of my presentation
. . .
Mayor Ferre: S+ick to the legal arguments and I will
recognize you again to fell us about your over all concerns.
Mr. McCrea: Okay, I understand, Mr. Mayor. Legally
defining what the developer has proposed to do over the last
several months has been like nailing jello to the wall.
There is a scheme set forth in Article 28 of the handling of
major use special permit applications, and frankly, in this
instance, it has been thrown in the trash can. Under the
major use special permit, Article 28, Section 2802.3.3, the
developer is required to submit prior to the time that the
application is deemed final for processing, a developmental
impact study. The developer is required to prepare the
developmental impact, study. It. says the "Applicant shall
submit a development impact study except as herein set out".
the only exception is for a development of regional impact,
which maybe we have here and maybe we don't have, but that
certainly hasn't, been the approach of the developer. "The
development impact study shall demonstrate whether the
impact of the proposed development: is favorable, adverse, or
neutral on the economy, public services, environment and
housing supply of the City and of the region." In this
case, we have had numerous different proposals concerning
the traffic with respect to this project. First., we were
told there would be access through the St. Stephen's
property. Then we were told there would be two lanes
through the hammock at the last hearing. Now we are being
told there is going there is going to be a third lane. How
can you possibly analyze the impact of this project on
public services in this City when you don't even know what
the plan is. In addition, and also with respect to the
traffic, under 2802.3.2, Subsection "A", the developer is
required to submit a concept. plan. "The concept plan shall
demonstrate not only functional internal relationships
within the area to be encompassed, but shall demonstrate
particularly the relationship of the concept plan to
surrounding existing and proposed future uses, activities,
systems and facilities." Further, the developmental impact.
study is required to address the environmental impact of
this project. There is an environmentally sensitive hammock
in the front of this property. The only thing that is in
the record concerning the hammock is the tree removal study
a perhaps a list of some of the species that are on the
property. How can you possibly analyze what should be done
in the future to protect, this hammock? Mr. Treister
submitted a letter earlier concerning the hammock. I object
strenuously with proposed that that be stricken from the
record. That is an attempt to amend the application in this
case subsequent to the commencement of its processing. I
object to this drawing which was presented by Mr. Treister
and was labeled "Commodore Bay Site Plan". This thing has
changed so many times, Lord knows what. it means now, and it.
is another attempt to amend the application in this case,
prior to its commencement of processing through the Planning
Department. Further, upon receipt of the final application,
the City Manager disburses various portions of the
application amongst the City departments and agencies. The
concept• plan, in this case, as I understand it, was taken up
in June of 1984 by the Heritage Conservation Board. There
ld
127 November 15, 1984
have been dramatic changes in the concept plan since that.
time by virtue of the changes in the traffic flow and by
virtue of the impact of the new traffic flow on the hammock.
How can we possibly know whether the Heritage Conservation
Board previously addressed this plan or some other plan or
what they addressed. Further, subsequent to the First
Reading before the City Commission, I was told by a member
of the City Planning Department that this matter would not
be on the agenda at the October 15, 1984 Heritage
Conservation Board meeting. In fact, it was not on the
agenda, but. yet, on October the 15th or 16th - I don't.
remember the exact date, a memorandum was submitted by Mr.
Rodriguez, prepared by Mr. Luft, to the Heritage
Conserva*.ion Board for the purposes of determining whether
or not there had been a change in +.he concept, which would
require this project to go back before the Heritage
Conservation Board, and that was presented by Mr. Luft - no
public notice, no opportunity for all of these people to
stand up and scream, or do whatever they want to do.
Mayor Ferre: Mr. McCrea, again ...
Mr. McCrea: Bear with me, I am making these points for the
record.
Mayor Ferre: Problem is, I have been bearing with you and
with Mr. Rice. Both of you have been skirting on the issue
between legal points and points that are non -legal. I would
ask you again to ... I know it is difficult to do it, I know
this means a great deal to you - I know you have your heart
in it., but I would ask you to please speak only to legal
arguments because it is my opinion, and I wanted Lucia put
on the record what you just told me because I think we are
not going to vote on this today. Go ahead.
Mrs. Dougherty: Mr. Mayor, I received a letter from Janet.
Cooper as well as listening to some of the other legal
comments here tonight. I have never personally reviewed the
file. I don't any of these, or some of these questions, and
most of these questions can't be answered without looking at
the file. I don't think they are going to be answered
tonight.
Mr. McCrea: Okay, let me summarize what I have just been
saying. Two point that I wish to make for the record are,
there is no ... this application began the processing
through the City Planning Department, though the Planning
Advisory Board, through the First Hearing of the City
Commission without there being a complete and sufficient
Developmental Impact Study. Further, the major use special
permit concept plan has been changed so many times after the
application was deemed to be final that it is impossible to
tell what it is and we ought to force the developer to go
back and start all over again and propose some thing that.
can be considered in a logical, rational manner. Further,
the major use, special permit resolution right here that you
all are being asked to consider tonight contains certain
findings of fact. which are without. support in the record.
On Page 3, Section one, Subparagraph B, it says "The City
Commission finds that the project would not create adverse
impact on air quality, ground water, soil, animal life,
vegetation, waste water management, or solid waste
disposal". It further finds that it would have a number of
positive impacts. Where is the support in the record?
Section one, paragraph C, "The City Commission finds the
adverse impacts related to water demands, energy demands,
solid Waste generation, demands on public services and
traffic generation will be mitigated by the conditions set
forth in Exhibit A." Exhibit A is the major use special
permit. The major use special permit refers to the
ld 128 November 15, 1984
4-1 40P
Commodore Bay Traffic Study dated August 16, 1984 and the
marketability study of Commodore Bay, dated August 19, 1984.
There have been so many changes in the traffic plan of this
project, that this traffic report right here, which, by the
way does not address, as I understand it, the third lane
issue is totally out of order and does not demonstrate the
findings in Paragraph 1-C. Fur+her, you are asked to find,
in Paragraph D-5, "The project will have a favorable impact
on the environment and the natural resources of this City."
Where is it in the record? Further, on Page 4, Section 1-D,
Subsection 6, "The project will not adversely affect living
conditions in the neighborhood." Finally, and most
importantly of all, the project would not., in Sub -paragraph
7 on Page 4 of Section 1-D, "The project would not adversely
affect public safety. Finally, just to confirm the dramatic
change in this project over the last several months - and on
August 31, 1984, Mr. Rodriguez, in his capacity as the
executive Secretary of the Planning Advisory Board wrote a
memo to the Planning Advisory Board dated Augus+. 31, 1984.
On Page 2 of 7, under the category "Traffic Impact.",
Paragraph 2, it-, says the following: "The second proposed
traffic scheme, forcing all exiting and entering traffic
from the project to the Commodore Plaza Main Highway
intersection is unacceptable as it results in diminished
levels of service from Main Highway traffic and probable
severe backup congestion for traffic exiting the Commodore
Bay project." If there is any proof that there has been
dramatic changes in the concept of this plan. If there is
any proof that there has been dramatic changes in the
concept of this plan, compare this remark by the Director of
the Planning Department, to what the Planning Department. is
saying now.
Mayor Ferre: All right, thank you, sir.
Mr. McCrea: Thank you, Mr. Commissioners.
Mayor Ferre: All right., Janet, I guess you have some legal
... or George, do you have some?
Mr. George Acton: Yes, I have a few points that I would
like to bring to the Commission's attention.
Mayor Ferre: Legal?
Mr. Acton: Yes, I understand that..
Mayor Ferre: Legal points. All right, go ahead.
Mr. Acton: Mr. Mayor and members of the Commission, I have
brought down for your review a copy of the 1977 adopted City
of Miami comprehensive plan and I want you to note that in
Coconut Grove from the Rickenbacker Causeway to the City
limits - the colors you see in that plan are virtually all
shades of yellow, with the exception of the park that, exists
adjacent to Rickenbacker Causeway around Dinner Key. There
is no red on private property from Rickenbacker Causeway all
the way down to City limits. If you adopt the ordinance
that is in front of you, it would be a flagrant example of
spot zoning. What you would be doing is taking a piece of
property a 100 feet wide and conferring on that property
special privilege that, is not conferred on any other
property from the Rickenbacker Causeway all the way down to
the City limits.
Mayor Ferre: George, how is that a legal argument.?
Mr. Acton: Spot zoning, Mr. Mayor, is a legal argument. Am
I right, Mr. Rice?
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129 November 15, 1984
a !� 4
Mr. Rice: You are correct..
t
Mayor Ferre: Former City Attorney! (LAUGHTER)
Mr. Acton: Okay, Mr. Mayor, that, is point. Number one. I
will try to be very brief. The second point I want to make
is that. State Law is very clear on what a community has to
do prior to the time t ha*, they enact, any zoning that is not
in compliance with their adopted comprehensive plan. The
City of Miami has not changed the comprehensive plan to
allow commercial, residential t:o be placed on specific
property to this date. The State law is very clear that
before you change the zoning, the plan must be changed.
finally, Mr. Mayor, the application of the planned
development mixed use in our true underlying zoning, which
is supposedly RS-1, Sector 4 is not in accordance with the
expressed intent of the planned development., either enabling
legislation, or the planned development., mixed use. Those
were the major legal points that. I wanted to make, Mr.
Mayor.
Mayor Ferre: Right., Mr. Rice?
Mr. Rice: I want to remind you that that, was George Acton
speaking and two, that I would like to introduce at a later
time both of these drawings that we alluded to, and I would
like to mark them for identification.
Mayor Ferre: Go right, ahead, Mr. Rice.
Mr. Rice: The land use plan ... (INAUDIBLE).
Mayor Ferre: Janet, it is your turn at bat.
Mr. Michael Simonoff: Just before then finish up the legal
thing, I want to do one thing for the legal record. I want
incorporate all the comments made by the attorneys and the
people speaking before me, as well as any comments being
made by Janet Cooper into this record in case there may be a
future look at. this.
Mr. Rice: Exhibit two for identification, the so called
planned development for the property - the reason is that no
one has spoken so far may have legal standing within the 375
feet radius, and I do ...
Mayor Ferre: Let the record reflect that the speaker in all
of this is a Mr. Michael Simonoff. All right, Ms. Cooper.
Ms. Janet Cooper: Janet Cooper with offices at 169 East.
Flagler Street. I am very proud to be here today
representing Friends of the Everglades. As you know,
Marjory Stoneman Douglas is the Chairman, and the Sierra
Club - two very fine organizations. I am going to stick to
legal issues; however, I do need to say one thing.
Mayor Ferre: Quickly!
Ms. Cooper: This map is from the developer's application.
Everything in red - well, let me start, with what is in
Orange, is the subject. property. Everything in gray is
identified as parks and marina. Now, the last time I
looked, in the parks and marinas of the City of Miami, there
was access to the bay. I have never seen a map that. went
from one end practically down to the other with as much
access to the bay, and all the arguments that we keep
hearing that, we need this project in order to provide access
to the bay in this location is a very small portion and this
argument just doesn't. wash. I am going to pass this and ask
it to be admitted into the record.
ld
130 November 15, 1984
Mayor Ferre: Now for the legal arguments.
Ms. Cooper: First, as Mr. Acton so rightly pointed out, not
only does State law require that there be an amendment to
the comprehensive neighborhood plan - however, in specifics,
ordinance 9500 Section 2802.7 requires "If the approval of
the final application Will involve a change in the adopted
Miami comprehensive neighborhood plan, notice shall also be
given in accord with the applicable provisions of Chapter
163.381, and 163.387, Florida statute". I just reviewed the
notices both City Commission meetings. Nothing was ever
mentioned about, a change in the comprehensive plan. The
State requirements for notice and hearing have not been met,
to the best of my knowledge. In addition, I would like to
point in the record to a memorandum dated September 13, 1984
to the City Manager from Aurelio Perez-Lugones, Director of
the Administration Department, and in one portion of this
memo, it says: "Amending the Miami comprehensive
neighborhood plan". It is right here, but nobody has
bo+.hered in the record to submit, a copy of the amendment. to
the plan, to submit, any evidence to support an application.
There is no application in the file for an amendment, to the
comprehensive neighborhood plan. There is no notice for any
hearing. There is nothing. How can be this accomplished?
It can't. I would have been surprised today when I reviewed
that. However, I looked at the file yesterday, and now
nothing surprises me anymore, because I found that you have
before you Item 6 and 7 on the agenda for changes of zoning.
These changes of zoning were requested by the Applicant in
application dated September 14, 1984. These applications
have never been heard by the Zoning Board. The City Code
requires that applications submitted by the property owner
or his agent be heard by the Zoning Board. I find it very
interesting. I find it equally interesting that there are
no separate files for applications 6 and 7. All in the
information is included in the files for 8. I saw no
evidence of any fees being paid for the application for
change of zoning. I see two very interesting requests for
changes of zoning. I am befuddled by them, actually. One
is for RS-1. Sector 1, to RS-1, Sector 4. What are you
allowed to build in RS-1? Single family homes! You tell me
how you are going to build a single family home with a
sector number of 4? When he gets that change, if he gets
it, and I don't. think he will, but if he gets it, all he
will be able to build at that point is single family homes.
Then we have a request for another change of zoning from
RS-1, Sector 4 to P.D.M.U. Now, P.D.M.U. allows him to
build most anything - attached dwellings high-rise
dwellings, multiple dwellings, so on and so forth. This is
a critical change. This is what it would permit this
project. It is not the special use major permit that would
permit this project. It is the change of zoning from RS-1,
Sectior 4, which the property is not today to the P.D.M.U.
Now, can he get, a change of zoning from RS-1, Sector 4 to
P.D.M.U.? I say no. He tried to that originally in his
application for major use without filing the application for
that change, because of course it cannot be done. It, can't
be done because of the specific provisions in Section 503,
which states "It is specifically provided however, that
where floor area and similar ratios, including land use
intensity ratios have been generally established by these
regulations for a particular type of district and any
particular areas, the City Commission shall not, act in a
particular case to alter said ratio". So, you couldn't take
the property from RS-1, Sector 1 and transform it into
P.D.M.U., giving him what he is requesting. That is why he
has to come back and file an application for the sector
change first and then the change to the P.D.M.U., so we see
an attempt. to get around the specific provision of the code.
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131 November 15, 1984
q
However, there is another problem that, is created by that,
and that is a prohibition in Article 35, specifically
Section 3514.3, which prohibits the Commission from
considering a successive change of zoning any sooner than 18
months after a first change of zoning has been granted.
What, I '.ell you is this project cannot, be accomplished from
the present. zoning, which allows 30 single family homes, to
what is being requested, 197 dwelling units - 80,000 square
feet of commercial and office space and a parking garage,
allegedly public, for almost 700 cars. It is not permitted
under the code This is the major thrust, of my argument.
There are other more detailed ones, but they are included in
the letter, and I would rest at this point unless you have
any questions.
Mayor Ferre: No, I would say that the letter would be then
submitted into the record for the City Attorney to also
answer when she answers generally all of the other legal
arguments that have been made. Now, are there any other
lawyers or people that: wish to present legal arguments at
this time - legal arguments?
Mr. Jim McMaster: I am not a lawyer, but: I have some legal
arguments. If they are not, you correct me. My name is Jim
McMaster. I live at 2940 S. W. 30th Court. in Coconut. Grove,
and I am the gentlemen who brought up the question about the
coral rock wall at the last. ...
Mayor Ferre: How is that a legal argument?
Mr. McMaster: Well, I have surveys here dating from 1967
from the City line and grade office down at the City
building on 2nd Street, clearly showing the coral rock wall
belongs to the City of Miami. There is a companion survey
see
Mayor Ferre: All right, then let the record submit that is
something that needs to be legally determined.
Mr. McMaster: I talked to Mr. George Campbell prior to the
other City council meeting and he assured me there is no
question the Cit.y's plat supersedes Mr. Treist.er's.
Mayor Ferre: All right.
Mr. McMaster: So I have these. As far as the May 31 from
Mr. Campbell to everyone involved, clarification and
encroachment, and clarification of ownership of submerged
lands and/or submit revised tentative. That is May 31. We
have a letter here from the Bureau of State Land Management.
dated June 6th stating that the bay bottom is vested in the
State of Florida. Mr. Treister has used 34,000 square feet
of bay bottom for his F.A.R.
Mayor Ferre: That has already been pointed out.
Mr. McMaster: I am saying that I want to introduce this
letter into the record.
Mayor Ferre: Okay, will you give those to the Clerk and
Janet, would you give a copy of your ... you already have,
all right. Are there any other lawyers or people who wish
to present, legal arguments at this time?
Ms. Cooper: Two other brief things, if I may, that were not
in my letter, but came up. First of all, we do need to file
a technical objection to the submission of a new plan. I
think that has been done. Second of all, I need to point
out to you Mr. Treister represented to you that this is a
preliminary hearing, that no building permit is going to be
ld 132
November 15, 1984
pulled here tonight, but-. what you would be doing here
tonight if you were to vote on this and approve it, would be
authorizing him to pull a building permit-.. I+. is not, a
preliminary hearing. It would be Second Reading on the
changes of zoning and the final hearing on the major use.
Mayor Ferre: All right - legal.
Ms. Carol Kniseley: I was going to make some of the
arguments *ha+ Ms. Cooper made. I am Carol Kniseley. I
live a*. 3877 Li*+le Avenue. I am a resident, of Coconut
Grove and a member of the Board of Directors of Coconut-.
Grove Civic Club, and I am pleased tha+. Ms. Cooper brought.
out some of the poin*.s that we brought. out at the last-•
meeting, as members of its homeowner's association and I
would like to incorpora*e the things she has mentioned.
Many of these *.hings are not available, as you may find, if
you look at the file. Anyone can go down there and look at
it, and I want to really encourage the fact-, that these
procedural guidelines for different projects and from the to
be considered in the same light.. Thank you.
Mayor Ferre: I assume that that concludes it and now, Mr.
Treister, I don't know whether you want your attorney to
make a statement of some sort. I think it is quite obvious
from what Mrs. Dougherty has said that she is going to need
to look at the record and study all of these legal
arguments. Now, do you have any problems with that? The
question is, do you have any problems with the procedure?
Into the record. I will repeat it. Our Ci*.y Attorney,
Lucia Dougherty has stated into the record that with all of
the legal issues that have been brought forward and they
wanted them all to go into the record so that we don't have
a repetition of this again at the next meeting, okay? She
is going to look, and I would recommend procedurally that
after she has done it, that she invite your attorney,
(whoever represents you legally in this) and all these
attorneys, and I would limit. it, with all due respects to
Mrs. Kniseley and Mr. McMasters and the others to the
attorneys, namely Janet Cooper, Jack Rice - I don't know who
the other attorneys were. I am sorry - Mr. McCrea, Mr.
Doney.
Mr. Simonhoff: What are you limiting to attorneys, the
future hearings?
Mayor Ferre: Legal discussions that Lucia Dougherty will
have with all of the attorneys on the legal questions. You
sir, are not an attorney, but. Mr. Parsons is, and he will be
invited.
Mr. Treister: Is it my understanding, Mr. Mayor, because of
these legal questions, that we can proceed with this hearing
and a vote of the Commission and if the Commission approves
this, that we would then have a subsequent hearing with the
City Attorney and attorneys on both sides to decide whether
this has been legally done or not?
Mayor Ferre: If the City Attorney tells me ...
(INAUDIBLE BACKGROUND COMMENTS)
Mayor Ferre: Wait a moment! If the City Attorney tells me
that she feels comfortable with that after all these
complicated legal' issues that have been brought. up, then I
would so rule, but. I think we need to be guided by her.
Mr. Treister: If I can just say why I think that is proper.
We did, at least our intent was to follow the laws of the
City and we were advised by the ...
ld 133 November 15, 1984
6
Mayor Ferre: But that is not what these people are saying.
Mr. Treister: I understand that, but I just want you to
know that the City Administration in all cases has told us
that we were following the procedures.
Mayor Ferre: City Administ•rat.ion?
Mr. Treister: Administration, right.
Mayor Ferre: The City Administration is not the City law
officer.
Mr. Treister: I understand that, and we obviously want, to
do what is legally correct. We have been working for one
year at these hearings and doing exactly what the
Administration advised us was legally correct. We would
like to have the permission of having this hearing heard
tonight. We have people here that came to speak on the
issue. We have been postponed now three times on this
particular issue. We would be very happy if we were lucky
enough to get the Commission's blessing on this, to submit
the approval to the attorneys for the City. We would like
to be represented, and if the City Attorney says that we
erred or the City erred, we would then follow that mandate,
or if we did not err, which we don't think we did, we
obviously would not, you know, object: to that. So, we would
like to go on that. procedure.
Mayor Ferre: Lucia, there you have it. You have five
attorneys bringing up legal considerations on one side.
Mrs. Dougherty: Mr. Mayor, it is rather simple.
Mayor Ferre: And you, at the request of the Applicant of
this, that it be heard tonight and that we come to a
conclusion and then let you deliberate on the legal
questions after the vote. Now, you have got to give us
legal guidance.
Mrs. Dougherty: Mr. Treister, I think it is really in your
best interests not, to close these hearings today with a
formal vote, because what may be minor sorts of problems or
deficits with your application could be cured by reason of
doing something in between now and the final vote, so I
would say even for your own best interests, if there are
some defects, minor or otherwise, that you don't foreclose
your ability to open these proceedings and supplement the
record by not continuing the hearing, so ...
Mr. Treister: With all due respects, we would prefer to
hear it tonight. We do not. think we have any legal defects.
We have studied this now very thoroughly and we would like
to hear this on its merits and we are subject to any legal
findings of the Commission afterwards, or the City Attorney.
Mayor Ferre: All right., the City Commission doesn't have
legal findings. This is not a court of law, nor are we
lawyers up here. It is the City Attorney and the courts of
this community that would have legal findings. Now, there
have been legal questions posed. Commissioner Plummer, who
will be back hopefully in a moment, said that he wanted some
legal answers.
Mrs. Dougherty: Mr. Mayor, I am not prepared to give those
legal answers. Excuse me for interrupting you.
Mayor Ferre: That is what I thought. you had said.
ld
134
November 15, 1984
Mrs. Dougherty: But, at the same time, Mr. Mayor, some of
these things are so profound that you would be foreclosed
from doing anything further, so I cannot advise you to take
a vote on it now. You might ...
Mayor Ferre: Unless somebody gives me other reasons, I
would be guided by the City V t.orney's recommendation on
that. 1, of course, could be overridden by three votes.
Mr. Treister: Mr. Mayor, we haven't had a chance, or Mr.
Luft, hasn't, or the City Manager, to answer some of these
legal ques+.ions which are completely - many, of which are
erroneous, many of them are not, true, and if this is going
to proceed with another mont.h's delay, or more months, I
think Mr. Luft, or the City Manager should answer these
questions, since we have been guided by their opinions as to
the laws of the City of Miami for a year.
Mayor Ferre: Ken, the point is that these are legal
questions than, have been posed. I do not, think that. Mr.
Luft or the City Manager can answer legal questions. They
have got, to be answered by the Legal Department. That is
why I have been trying to limit all this stuff about foliage
and the wall land all this other you know, totally
superflous - we spent and hour of which 20 minutes dealt
with legal issues. The reason I am trying to do that. is I
heard very clearly that Ms. Dougherty said that she did not
think that she could give a legal opinion on serious legal
questions now.
Mr. Scharlin: Mr. Mayor, may I say something.
Mayor Ferre: Yes, sir, Mr. Scharlin.
Mr. Scharlin: Just a few comments.
Mayor Ferre: Of course.
Mr. Scharlin: My name is Howard Scharlin. I am one of the
Applicants. I live at 3615 Battersea Road, Miami. My
office is at 1399 S. W. 1st Avenue, Miami. I recognize that.
the Commission has before it., based on the presentation of
parties opposed to this application, a terrible question to
face. They have - one of the major objections you have
heard, as a matter of fact, is that reviewing the
application has been a bowl of jello, and they couldn't pin
down what we were doing. We, on the other hand, for the
first time are hearing their legal objections. It is fair,
they are entitled to do that, but take apart what has been
said. Take apart a moment., because it is frightening for
legal people to speak to non -legal people, and use a lot of
section numbers and use a lot of rules and make all kinds of
allegations and everyone says "My God, my God! The law must
be broken with that many numbers, with that many months,
with that many hearings, with that many notices that have
been published, or have not been published, there must be
something wrong. All that smoke - fire is there someplace".
Well, what have they said? They said that the mixed use
procedure upsets them because they are constant changes in
it, but the whole concept of the hearing procedure, and if
you take apart. - and I was making notes of each of the
objections, and will come to Janet in a moment - you take
apart what was said one thing at. a time. There was a
serious concern that there wasn't proper no+.ice. First Mr.
McCrea insisted that that ground plan or site plan be
inserted in the record, and then he stood up and said "I
want it. stricken from the record because it. was a change
from what was originally done". But the purpose of
hearings, the purpose of interplay between a developer and
the City Planning Department, and ultimately the initial
ld 135 November 15, 1984
Planning Advisory Board, which was inserted instead of the
Zoning Board, in this situation for the consideration of
zoning. I don't know why, but. that, was the requirement..
Our appearance before the Board and our dealings with the
Planning Department is to enable this mixed use to evolve as
the best. possible use, both for the developer and the
public. Inherent, in i} - inherent, is constant change. If
you had a procedure where everyt.ime at each step any change
was made, you had to go back to ground zero, which is the
implication from all of the objections to the jello that,
they couldn't nail to the wall. If you had to do that, you
would never have any forward motion. The purpose of your
ordinance and it is very good one, although it, is not.
located in any one place in the book - the purpose of your
ordinance in substance, is to allow a developer to present
an application, to deal with your professionals - (And by
the way, as an aside, our law over the last two centuries
has been evolving from one of procedure to one of
substance.) Are we getting in substance what we as a
community need? Is everyone getting an opportunity to
understand? And maybe the opponents haven't had their
chance to understand what was going on, but everyone as far
as I know has made an effort, to be as open as we could, to
deal with all of the bodies at each step of the way as we
should. Now, so much for changes. Whether the application
was complete, did we have a development impact.? Yes, there
is development impact. It is difficult for the City
Attorney to say here now, that we did or we didn't, but
there is a very detailed study of the impact of this
development on the community, and on the local residents and
on the traffic. I think my partner is going to summarize.
Mr. Treister: Mr. Mayor and the City Commission, I do not
think it., is a legal question that is posed now. If I can,
Mr. Mayor, Mr. Luft has been our planner in charge of our
procedures. They said we haven't done things which we did.
They said we didn't submit. applications which we did. I
would appreciate it: if Mr. Luft , or I can ...
Mayor Ferre: No, sir. Kenny, you have to understand this,
and Howard, I want you to listen to this. I, personally
resent any implication that has been made here about
honorability on the part of the developers. I think there
is no proof of that; on the contrary, I think both you and
Mr. Scharlin and the other members of your group have in my
opinion, been great citizens of this community. I think
that you are honorable men and trying to do the right thing.
There are people who have a different vision of what Coconut
Grove and Miami should be. They are entitled also to their
opinion. I don't think any of that is the question. We are
not now dealing with the merits or the substance of the is-
sue as such. When Mr. Parsons started to talk and subse-
quent to that, ending with Janet Cooper, there were a whole
series of accusations that deal with the law that are a lot
more than just a lot of numbers. Now, Commissioner Plummer,
at: the conclusion of Mr. Parson's remarks, said, "I need an
answer before I can render a vote. Subsequent to that, af-
ter several other speakers, our City Attorney said she can-
not, in her opinion, give us a legal opinion on the ques-
tions posed at this particular time, without spreading this
further. I recommended to you, to the Applicant and to the
the opponents, procedurally that. Janet Cooper have a meeting
amongst lawyers so that you can, after she has had an oppor-
tunity to study this, so that you can all come to a discus-
sion - you can argue it back and forth among the lawyers,
and then at the next meeting, she will be privy to your ar-
guments and she will then render a legal opinion. Now, I
want to tell you, and I want to tell all those opponents
that, I will be guided as I have for 15 years, by the opinion
of the City Attorney, and I will not accept personally, your
ld 136 November 15, 1984
6
arguments, or Jack Rice's arguments, or Howard Scharlin's
arguments, one way or the other, once she has rendered a le-
gal opinion on legal matters and I will be guided by what
you say. Beyond that, your place is to challenge her legal
opinion in a court of law, not in this political body. Now,
if we get past the legal stuff that is going on here, then
we could proceed to the foilage and the vegetation and the
traffic and what the school says and what Friends of the Ev-
erglades say, and all these other things that. are important
and should be brought to the record. We also have - Mrs.
Dann has written me a letter which I made par*, of the re-
cord. We have a telegram from Elton Geisendanner. It is an
issue that we need to discuss. On the other hand, Mrs. Dann,
I am not going to allow that subject to all of a sudden be a
door, a massive door to stop this project without it being
substan*ive in nature. In other words, Elton Geisendanner,
and therefore the Governor, his boss, and the Cabinet, have
got to put their money where their mouth is, because, if at
the end of this rainbow, they say, well, you know, we are
willing to chip in $200,000, well, that is very nice, but
that won't do the trick, and we really need to have that. as
a real issue. If they are really talking about buying this
property to add to the Barnacle as a park, then they have
got to act on it in a reasonable time. We can't stall this
for six months or three months, while they are thinking
whether they are going to give us $100,000 or $500,000, so I
think we need to follow some due process there, and it needs
to be timely so that these people will have a reasonable an-
swer on a timely basis.
Ms. Cooper: Mr. Mayor ...
Mayor Ferre: Janet, let the Applicants have their say, be-
cause I have already ruled on this and ...
Ms. Cooper: I just have a couple more points.
Mayor Ferre: Yes, but you see, that is ...
Ms. Cooper: When you are ready.
Mayor Ferre: I will recognize you later on. She has made a
statement and I have ruled on this. I can be overruled by
three members of this Commission.
Mr. Treister: Mr. Mayor, on the timeliness of this, if we
agree to this, which we may have to, obviously, because you
have the authority. We were supposed to be on the agenda in
June, and it, was legal question, and they said the applica-
tion was not. our fault., but was published wrong. We were
then postponed through August and then into the fall and we
would appreciate it if this could be done - the legal meet-
ing in the next few days and we could be heard without a
week because ..
Mayor Ferre: That is reasonable. I don't know whether we
can hear you in a week.
Mr. Plummer: No, not. within a week. We don't meet again
for a month.
Mayor Ferre: I don't see how we can hear you in a week, but:
I think that the meeting should be concluded and that hope-
fully, the City Attorney would conclude her ... now, I want
to tell you so that you don't get angry at me later on. Be-
yond this, once we have a legal opinion, the rest of these
legal arguments are before a court of law, because this is
not a competent. jurisdiction to that, and only as to the
procedure, do we get involved in this whole legal question.
Beyond the ruling of the City Attorney, beyond that, you are
ld 137 November 15, 1984
it
i
r
into a court, of law, because I am not at the next meeting
going to then have three more attorneys stand forward and
say "Well, and this one, and that one, and we forgot to say
that. Section such and such were not discussed". That is not
fair. Okay?
Mr. Treister: Could we have it. as soon as possible and all
3f..
that?
i
Mrs. Dougherty: I am available tomorrow.
i
Mr. Treis*er: No, I meant f.he ...
Mayor Ferre: I don't see any reason why it can't. be brought.
to the next meeting, and then we will hopefully conclude it.
Mr. Treister: We will agree to that.
Mayor Ferre: All right, Mr. Treister. Yes, Ma'am.
Ms. Cooper: First of all, I also have the utmost respect
for the City Staff, for Mr. Treister, who has done a lot of
fine things for the community and who is very well known,
and for Mr. Scharlin. He doesn't know that I know of him,
but through is very fine activities in another organization
that he and I belong to (GASP), and I have always had tre-
mendous respect for him, if for no other reason, for his
work in that organization. However, I do need to point out
that. I didn't overlook the fact that the Planning Advisory
Board did meet on this issue. I didn't think that the Plan-
ning Advisory Board made a recommendation on the application
for change of zoning. The reason I thought that is the
Planning Advisory Board met on September 12th and these ap-
plications were not filed until two days later, September
-
14th, so I really don't think that the Planning Advisory
Board could have been substituted for the Zoning Board to
F"
have voted on the application for a change of zoning. See-
and of all, in regard to jello and our complaint that we
have been having difficulty knowing what is going on. We
may have some difficulties working with a system that allows
the developer to make changes at will and I am not sure that
that is what the code provides, but even assuming that it
does, we may have difficulty working with it, but if we did-
n't object to it. What we object to is the failure to dis-
seminate information - letters that were being written Octo-
ber 12th that are not admitted into the public record, that
are not. in the file until the hearing - no opportunity to
review them. The developer not submitting the plans, not
meeting with the people.
Mayor Ferre: Janet., the City Attorney has decided, I have
ruled ...
Ms. Cooper: I understand.
Mayor Ferre: You are not talking to any of this.
Ms. Cooper: Let me say one other thing. If Mr. Treister is
so anxious to have a final decision, I can provide an oppor-
tunity for him to have that by Section 3508.1, which pro-
vides that the Zoning Board must hear the application for
change of zoning within 60 days of the application. That
has not occurred, so I think we could, if he wants a final
decision, we could make a ruling that the application be ad-
ministratively denied for failure to comply with that.
Mayor Ferre: I thought you were going to challenge him to a
dual or something - something practical)
[A
ld 138 November 15, 1984
6 44
Mr. Cooper: No, no, I am just trying to be helpful and an-
swer his question and solve his time problem! Lastly, I
would like to ask that. the record, since the condition of
the record, as it stands today, be maintained in the securi-
ty of Mr. Ongie.
Mayor Ferre: That is fine. All right., is '-.here anything
else now? Legally, do we need to vote on this to continue
for further information?
Mrs. Dougherty: Yes, sir, to a time and place certain.
Mayor Ferre: All right.
Mr. McCrea: One more point., please, sir. I certainly hope
that *.here has been no implication made by the people who
are opponents who have been speaking to these legal issues
that would impune the integrity of any individual.
Mayor Ferre: I didn't think so.
Mr. McCrea: Mr. Scharlin and Mr. Treister have a record of
service in the community which speaks for itself, and I have
in no way, shape or form impuned anyone's integrity.
Mayor Ferre: I didn't say that you had. I just, wanted to
clarify in case somebody might, misinterpret.
Mr. Fraser Schuh: Mr. Mayor, may I say something briefly.
My name is Fraser Schuh, and I live at 6953 S. W. 128th
Place. My office address is 3000 Miami Center, 100 Chopin
Plaza, Miami, and I represent David Swetland, who is the co-
owner and co -developer of the Biscayne Camp Development with
Mike Simonoff and I have several legal arguments to bring
here today, all of which were more than adequately covered
by the attorneys who spoke, however, if there is to be a
hearing on these legal arguments in front of the City Attor-
ney ...
Mayor Ferre: Are you an attorney?
Mr. Schuh: Yes, I am.
Mayor Ferre: And your name again?
Mr. Schuh: Fraser Schuh - S-c-h-u-h. I would like to be
included in a legal argument made to the City Attorney.
Mayor Ferre: I don't mean to exclude those who are not at-
torneys, but since in effect the arguments are legal, I
think and you have some pretty heavy weight - and I mean
that figuratively (LAUGHTER) legal talent, I think you ought
to kind of depend on them. You have enough certainly to
protect your interests and I think it will go easier if we
get, lawyers to deal with these issues that are legal in na-
ture rather than otherwise, even though I do agree with
Shakespeare in his opinion about. lawyers.
Mr. Plummer: Yes, all to do about. nothing!
(INAUDIBLE BACKGROUND COMMENTS)
Mayor Ferre: We may have to. All right, yes, sir.
Mr. Plummer: Mr.
we would like to
deadline be set
surrendered to by
29th or some date.
Mayor, I would suggest as you said, that
get. the legalities behind us - t.hat a
for any and all legal arguments to be
the City At.t.orney by no later than the
ld 139 November 15, 1984
Mayor Ferre: Or before then. J. L., as a matter of fact,
we are really kind of stretching it to do this today. I
really don't think that we can take any more legal arguments
beyond today.
Mr. Plummer: 21st.? Fine.
Mayor Ferre: Whatever other - all right., 21s*. is fine.
Mr. Plummer: I am just, saying that everybody that wants to
surrender legal argumen*s do it by the 21st ...
Mayor Ferre: Which is Wednesday.
Mr. Plummer: Which is nex*. Wednesday.
Mayor Ferre: If you have any further arguments or any of
your friends, clients or associates or otherwise, please
submit them to Lucia Dougherty those things that, have not.
been brought. up, and as of 5:00 P.M. on the 21st of
November, which is the day before Thanksgiving, everything
is cut off, and hopefully Mrs. Dougherty will have a meeting
with the affected attorneys that are on the record in the
following week - I would imagine towards the end of the
week, so that she can be ready to give an opinion to this
Commission in the first week of December, so that. this
Commission can then - or certainly by the 10th of December
so that we can then deal with it on the zoning meeting,
which will be on the 20th.
Mr. Treister: Mr. Mayor, I am not a lawyer - I would
appreciate it if they could have less time to put the
arguments forward so that we could have time to receive them
and have our attorneys review them in proper time for the
hearing.
Mayor Ferre: Kenny, how could you have less time than the
21st, which is 6 days from now?
Mr. Treister: No, no, we need time after they submitted all
their arguments to have somebody before this hearing ...
Mayor Ferre: The 21st is a Wednesday, and we are not going
to hear it until the 20th of December.
Mr. Treister: Oh, I am sorry. In other words, the Legal
Department ruled to that.
Mayor Ferre: You are going to have four weeks to think
about it, argue it and look at it.
Mr. Treister: There will be a hearing with the Legal
Department right prior to the City Commission meeting, is
that it?
Mayor Ferre: No! I would imagine that. she would call
together all these lawyers in the end of November, and
hopefully, she would conclude a legal opinion a week later,
sometime in the week of the 10th through the 14th so that
you ...
Mr. Treister: Mr Mayor, how much time after the deadline
that the opponents can submit these arguments, will we have
before the City Attorney rules to answer those objections?
Mayor Ferre: Well, I think you should have as much time as
they have.
Mr. Treister: Yes, but. we have to get. them first. If you
are giving them to the 21st ...
ld 140 November 15, 1984
A
C_ J
i
Mayor Ferre: Right,, and that, is six days, so we will give
you a week to answer everything before she concludes. That
means she is not conclude her position legally on this until
a week after that. She is going to need at least a week to
think about all the things you are going to talk about..
Mr. Treister: Fine, thank you.
Ms. Cooper: Mr. Mayor, I am leaving the country on December
11th, so I would very much appreciate ... (LAUGHTER) ... I
know Mr. Treist.er and Mr. Scharlin and his friends are very
unhappy about that and maybe they would like to finance my
trip!
Mayor Ferre: They would if you accept a one-way ticket!
Ms. Cooper: What if I promise to come back after the
hearing? But I would certainly appreciate it, and I don't.
think Mr. Treister would object if we were hold the hearing
no later than December 10th.
Mayor Ferre: All right, they would like to have the hearing
as quickly as possible! Problem is that there are five
members of this Commission who ... this is a part time job,
you know, and there are five members of this Commission who
have got other things to do. They travel, they have
families, they run businesses ...
Ms. Cooper: Well, come with me on the 11th!
Mayor Ferre: But not if you have a one-way ticket!
(LAUGHTER)
Ms. Cooper: So far it is round trip.
Mayor Ferre: Sounds like an offer I can't refuse.
Mr. Plummer: Mayor, I move these items 6, 7 and 8 be
deferred until December 20t.h.
Mr. Perez: Second.
Mayor Ferre: There is a motion and a second. Continued,
you mean.
Mr. Plummer: Continued to 9:00 A.M.
Mayor Ferre: Not 9:00 A.M., because you already gave those
people on 22nd Avenue ...
Mr. Plummer: 3:30 P.M.
Ms. Cooper: Let, me ask you this. You have meetings
scheduled for the 12th, the 13t.h and the 20th.
Mayor Ferre: They are not zoning meetings.
Ms. Cooper: I understand that, but we switch sometimes of
necessity. If I can change my ticket to the 13th, can you
do it. on the 12th on that, hearing at the least ...
Mr. Plummer: No, the 12f.h is a police hearing only.
Ms. Cooper: Can we please set it? I really - it is tied up
with a number of other people and it is not something that I
have a lot of flexibility. With one or two days I do, but. I
too
ld
141 November 15, 1984
Mayor Ferre: It is a question of what the majority of this
Commission has to do.
Mr. Plummer: Mr. Mayor, the only problem, if it was
just
6{
coming back
here to answer the legal questions, that is
one
thing, but
I see a hundred people out here biting the
bit
that wanted
to speak tonight who are not going to speak
and
�w
you are talking about another five hours!`
Y 8
Ms. Cooper:
Well, I don't think you are going to have that,
because I
think the ruling is going to be that
this
application
cannot even properly be addressed by
this
Commission.
Mr. Plummer: Don't worry about. it. Just go.
Ms. Cooper: Well, I might!
Mayor Ferre: Well, you are so confident. of your legal
opinion, that my advice is take the trip on the 10t.h!
Ms. Cooper: Okay, that is a deal. I am that confident.
Mayor Ferre: All right, are we ready now to vote on the
motion? Okay, call the roll.
(NOTE: MOTION DULY MADE AND SECONDED WAS ADOPTED TO
CONTINUE MEETING TO DECEMBER 20, 1984. Said motion was
later rescinded and superseded by MOTION 84-1317 - see
below.)
Mayor Ferre: Now, I just don't see how we can do it on the
12th and the 13th is going to be a Regular City Commission
meeting, which will be jam packed with things, and I think
the 12th is just as important as these police things. I
would hope that we would conclude this on the 12th and it is
too important a hearing for us to confuse with other issues,
and I know you are concerned with zoning and Coconut Grove,
but you are also concerned with the Police Department and
issues dealing with it. and we don't really want to any way
tarnish that. But, the problem Janet, is that the rest of
this Commission - you know, we struggled hard to come to an
agreement on the 12th and 13th. As I remember, one or two
of the members of the Commission are not going to be here
the first week of December.
Mr. Plummer: I won't.
Mayor Ferre: All right, the police hearings, as I recall,
was going to start, at 1:00 o'clock?
Mr. Rice: Well, you know the rest of us make a living also,
and we are required to sit here all day while you go through
the police hearings, that is unfair.
Mayor Ferre: That is unfair.
(INAUDIBLE BACKGROUND COMMENTS)
Mayor Ferre: What? That is between you and your fellow
attorneys. Janet, there is nobody here the first, week in
December, okay?
(INAUDIBLE BACKGROUND COMMENTS)
Mayor Ferre: At 1:00 P.M. to 6:00 P.M.? I have no
objections to that. I really don't think that our hearing
would take more than one to 6:00 P.M. I am going to tell
ld 142 November 15, 1984
A 0
you this, I am not going to stay here un+.il 2:00, 3:00
o'clock in the morning.
Mr. Plummer: Neither am I. 9:00 o'clock I am walking out.
Mayor Ferre: I would be willing to discuss this from 6:00
to 9:00 o'clock, or even 10 : 00 o'clock, but. I am not going
to go much beyond that. Is that acceptable to you, Mr.
Treist.er, Mr. Scharlin, Mr. Rice? Anybody have any
objections to 6:00 P.M. on the 12th of December? Does
anybody have any objec*•ions to that.?
(INAUDIBLE BACKGROUND COMMENTS)
Mayor Ferre: I need to ...
Mr. Rice It is going to be a long time before you get out
of here on that day, I want to tell you.
Mayor Ferre: I need to tell you tha*% if we do this as a
special thing on the 6th, in my opinion, it is not going to
be over by 9:00 o'clock and this Commission is going to be
over by 9:00 o'clock, so what you have ...
Mr. Rice: Well, let's get a date where we know we can finish
it.
Mayor Ferre: Therefore I think that we are really to the
20th.
(INAUDIBLE BACKGROUND COMMENTS)
Mayor Ferre: Let's leave it this way, Jack. Let's try to
do it on the 12th. If we cannot, then we will have to roll
whatever is left over until the 20th, all right? And we
will stay as long as we can on that day to see if we can
solve this. Is that acceptable to everyone? So it is the
12th at.. 6:00 P.M. Commissioner Dawkins? Commissioner
Perez? Commissioner Plummer? All right, let the record
reflect that it was unanimous and the date now is the 12th
at 6:00 P.M. Make it a motion.
Mr. Plummer: So moved.
Mr. Perez: Second.
Mayor Ferre: Plummer moves, Perez seconds, call the roll.
The following motion was introduced by
Commissioner Plummer, who moved its adoption:
MOTION NO. 84-1317
A MOTION TO CONTINUE AGENDA ITEMS 6, 7,
AND 8 DEALING WITH THE COMMODORE BAY
PROJECT TO THE MEETING PRESENTLY
SCHEDULED FOR DECEMBER 12, 1984, AT CITY
HALL, AT 6:00 O'CLOCK P.M.
Upon being seconded by Commissioner Perez, the motion
was passed and adopted by the following vote -
AYES: Commissioner Miller J. Dawkins
Commissioner J. L. Plummer, Jr.
Vice -Mayor Demetrio J. Perez, Jr.
Mayor Maurice A. Ferre
NOES: None.
ld
143 November 15, 1984
ABSENT: Commissioner Joe Carollo
33. APPROVE IN PRINCIPLE: APPLICATION OF CONGRESS BUILDING
PARTNERS FOR UDAG GRANT.
Mayor Ferre: I just got. a telephone call from Mr. Traurig's
office - on UDAG which does not involve Little Havana. The
Congress building partners ...
Mr. Plummer: Move Agenda Item S-3.
Mayor Ferre: Is there a second?
Mr. Perez: Second.
Mayor Ferre: Further discussion? Call on Agenda Item S-3?
Call the roll on S-3.
The following resolution was introduced by Commissioner
Plummer, who moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 84-1318
A RESOLUTION APPROVING IN PRINCIPLE THE
APPLICATION OF CONGRESS BUILDING
PARTNERS FOR SUBMISSION BY THE CITY OF
MIAMI TO THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING
& URBAN DEVELOPMENT FOR AN URBAN
DEVELOPMENT ACTION GRANT, FOR THE
ACQUISITION, SUBSTANTIAL REHABILITATION
AND CONVERSION OF THE 21-STORY CONGRESS
BUILDING INTO AN OFFICE AND COMMERCIAL
BUILDING.
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here
and on file in the Office of the City Clerk.)
Upon being seconded by Commissioner Perez, the
resolution was passed and adopted by the following vote -
AYES: Commissioner Miller J. Dawkins
Commissioner J. L. Plummer, Jr.
Vice -Mayor Demetrio J. Perez, Jr.
Mayor Maurice A. Ferre
NOES: None.
ABSENT: Commissioner Joe Carollo
34. APPROVE IN PRINCIPLE: APPLICATION OF LITTLE HAVANA
PROFESSIONAL OFFICE BUILDING PARTNERSHIP FOR UDAG
GRANT.
Mayor Ferre: Now, I assume, J. L., that the 14,000 square
feet office space in the Latin Quarter is something that you
have not had an opportunity to review.
Mr. Plummer: Has anyone?
Mayor Ferre: I know nothing about. it. This is the first.
time I have ever heard of it.
ld 144 November 15, 1984
z,.
yr
a
x
a
Mr. Dawkins: Move that• it. be deferred.
Mayor Ferre: No, you don't- have to do that., because if you
�
P
don't take it up ...
Mayor Ferre: All right., we also have the question that. Gene
`
Hancock has been waiting on for six months, and I think out
of eourf.esy to him ... Mr. Manager?
Mr. Gary: On the UDAG, the one tha*. you didn't vote, they
i
t.
have to be in by the first, so if you don'do it. at. this
meeting, you have got to wait for the next round.
a
Mr. Plummer: Until March.
1
Mayor Ferre: Mr. Manager, I am ready to vote on it excep*,
t
that there is a member of the Commission who ...
Mr. Plummer: The Congress Building has been passed. Go
home.
i
Mayor Ferre: The Congress Building has been passed. The
one that is being held up is S-2, which is the one in Little
Havana. Yes, sir?
Mr. Gerardo Mendez: Mr. Mayor, my name is Gerardo P.
_
Mendez. I live at 2530 S. W. 5th Avenue, and my office is
at 1437 S. W. 1st Street. I am one of the owners of that
building there and I am one of the interested parties with
respect, to that UDAG for the Little Havana Office Building
project. We would respectfully ask the Commission to
approve the recommendation to allow us to petition the
Federal government to obtain this UDAG. We have a matter
that has to meet a certain deadline. I believe that is
everything the Federal government requires prior to
:..<
submission of this application has been complied with and
the only thing that the City Commission needs to do is vote
on it and hopefully approve it.
Mr. Mendez: As I was saying, Mr. Mayor and the rest of the
Commissioners, it is not a very controversial project at
j'
all. It consists of a five story office building which is
going to be located ...
a
Mr. Plummer: No, according to your application, it is a six
story building.
Mr. Mendez: Well, actually five, it has been amended.
Mr. Plummer: You would be the first six story building on
S. W. 1st Street, from my recollection.
Unidentified Speaker: We are talking about a six story
building on UDAG?
'
Mr. Mendez: It has been amended. It does comply with all
of the zoning requirements of the City, so there is no
special variance or anything of that sort, that we are
requesting. We are just requesting the City Commission ...
Mayor Ferre: Let me say to Mr. Gus Casteneda UDAG process
Y y �
is a complex one and it is not an easy thing to do. The
-'
final say is the Commission's. This is the elected body.
It is unreasonable for ... and I know that they have
pressures to do other things, for this Department to bring
"
up something to this Commission that this Commission has not
seen before. The Christian Hospital we have seen before,
a .
you know, for years. The other one, the Congress Building
is a non -controversial issue. Yours is controversial. Now,
it is, in the opinion of some members of this Commission.
• + s" y
r v
ld 145 November 15, 1984
0 O
Mr. Mendez: Well, perhaps I can clarify some of those
issues because I don't believe that..
Mayor Ferre: The members of this Commission have a right to
say that they don't want to deal with that, or they don't,
want to vote, or make the application for that. UDAG grant at
this time.
Mr. Plummer: Let me make it, easy for you. Let me pass you
a motion. Listen well to what I am saying. I offer a
motion at this time to gran', the approval of S-2, that if no
Commissioner - a single Commissioner does not voice an
objection by next. Wednesday, it is approved. If a single
Commissioner voices an objection, it is disapproved. I will
offer that for you. Then that will give you the time to
come see me, come see the members of this Commission.
Mr. Mendez: We will accept that.
Mayor Ferre: You had better see me and you had better see
Perez and you had bet.t.er see Dawkins!
Mr. Plummer: I am your neighbor, and I don't know a thing
about it..!
Mr. Dawkins: .. (inaudible).
Mr. Plummer: Well, I am saying ...
Mr. Mendez: I think that is fair. We will get ...
Mayor Ferre: Yes, but it is fair, but you know, I don't
want to mislead you. That, doesn't mean you have got it!
Mr. Plummer: Any single Commissioner voices an objection
before next Wednesday, the item is denied. You understand
that?
Mr. Mendez: I understand.
Mr. Plummer: Okay, I will offer such a motion.
Mayor Ferre: Is that an existing building?
Mr. Mendez: No, it is going to be new construction.
Mayor Ferre: You have a 14,000 square foot building with
five floors? What., it is 2,000 per floor? What does it
have, a bathroom in the corridor? Do you have a drawing of
this? Can I see it? Where is this going to be?
Mr. Plummer: 14th Avenue and S. W. 1st. Street.. It will be
14th and 15th.
Mr. Perez: What is the exact address?
(INAUDIBLE BACKGROUND COMMENTS)
Mayor Ferre: Does that meet the zoning?
Mr. Mendez: Yes, it does.
Mr. Plummer: It has five floors it. does.
Mr. Casteneda: The amended amount. They have sat with
Planning Department and they are decreasing the size of the
building by 3,275 square feet and we would also have to
lower the amount, of and so forth in relation to that.
ld 146 November 15, 1984
ot
Mayor Ferre: This doesn't mean that this is going to pass,
and .. .
Mr. Perez: I think Mr. Mayor, that, it is important that.
these people try to reach each member of the Commission. I
don't. understand how, Mr. Manager, we have all these
important things the same as the last meeting and it is
important, to disclose ... (inaudible)...
Mayor Ferre: I would rather reverse that. I would say that
you ought to make you motion that, by next. Wednesday they
ought to have the signature of all five members of the
Commission. Unless they get the signature of all five, then
this matter ...
Mr. Plummer: You have got, to get five to sign off.
Mayor Ferre: Is that legal, Lucia?
Mrs. Dougherty: This is very creative, but very legal.
Mayor Ferre: All right, Plummer's motion then, has been
amended as I understand, and that is by the 30th of
November, which is the cut-off date ...
Mr. Plummer: That. is fine with me. It. gives them more
time.
Mayor Ferre: That gives you more time, that a memorandum
with five signatures - separate, so as not to violate the
Sunshine Law, be obtained by the Administration, approving
this project:.
Mr. Mendez: Mr. Mayor, what if we cannot obtain
Commissioner's signature because of absence or some kind of
an emergency?
Mr. Plummer: That is your problem. You are liable to have
to go to Indianapolis to get mine.
Mr. Perez: Do you have the opportunity of the December
12t.h?
Mr. Plummer: No, no.
Mayor Ferre: All, there is a second to that motion?
Dawkins seconds. Further discussion, call the roll.
The following resolution was introduced by Commissioner
Plummer, who moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 84-1319
A RESOLUTION APPROVING IN PRINCIPLE, THE
APPLICATION OF LITTLE HAVANA
PROFESSIONAL OFFICE BUILDING PARTNERSHIP
FOR SUBMISSION BY THE CITY OF MIAMI TO
THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING 7 URBAN
DEVELOPMENT FOR AN URBAN DEVELOPMENT
ACTION GRANT, FOR CONSTRUCTION OF A SIX -
STORY OFFICE AND COMMERCIAL BUILDING;
FURTHER PROVIDING THAT THE RESOLUTION
BECOME EFFECTIVE UPON ITS SIGNING BY ALL
CITY COMMISSIONERS.
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here
and on file in the Office of the City Clerk.)
ld 147 November 15, 1984
0 P
Upon being seconded by Commissioner Dawkins, the
resolution was passed and adopted by the following vote -
AYES: Commissioner Miller J. Dawkins
Commissioner J. L. Plummer, Jr.
Vice -Mayor Demetrio J. Perez, Jr.
Mayor Maurice A. Ferre
NOES: None.
ABSENT: Commissioner Joe Carollo
35. EXPRESS CONCERN TO STATE DEPT. NATURAL RESOURCES
CONCERNING POSSIBLE STATE PURCHASE OF PROPERTY ADJACENT
TO BARNACLE, 34TI MAIN HIGHWAY.
------------------------------------------------------------
Mayor Ferre: This is Mr. Treister's Commodore Plaza -
Agenda Items 6, 7, and 8. Mrs. Dann.
Mrs. Linda Dann: Linda Dann, 803 Anastasia Avenue, Coral
Gables, 33134. Elton Gissendanner, the head of the
Department of Natural Resources is very interested in
helping the City, as you read in your telegram, Maurice
Ferre. What he said to me in a telephone conversation
inserted in the telegram too - he said the Commission has to
vote to ask the State to help them.
Mayor Ferre: I think that is appropriate that you ask that,
and I think we have to take a position, but I think we have
to let the State know that it must be a fairly quick
response. I think it is unfair to hold all these people up
after all this work and all this ...
I
i Mrs. Dann: I certainly agree with that totally. I am not
trying to delay it in any way. I just have heard what Mr.
Gissendanner asked that the City Commission has to make a
request and then I anyone else who can, like the Friends of
z the Everglades and the Sierra Club who are more used to
these things ... Marilyn, help me.
i
Ms. Marilyn Reed: Let me clear the air a little bit here.
In order for them to move, we need a resolution to indicate
your interests in this.
Mayor Ferre: All right.
Ms. Reed: The funds are probably ... I will call Elton and
find out - I believe they will come from Land and
Conservation funds, which is furnished from off shore oil
leases and it is a very heavy fund, okay? It has nothing to
do with the Deering Estate, which comes under the coral
program - I want to clear that up. But, in order for us to
move immediately and get this started, we need an
ind8ieation of your support and interest.
Mayor Ferre: All right, out of courtesy, I think we need to
k°
Mr. Treister speak to the issue.
Mr. Treister: Yes, I think this is out of order. We have
}._
for instance, Jim Apthorpe here to speak on this issue - the
ex -Governor's aide. Mr. Gissendanner and the Governor we
-`
could not get by phone. We would like to speak to him.
Everybody has left.
f:C
Gf
Id 148 November 15, 1984
ow
f
Mayor Ferre: I would recommend you talk to the Governor,
because that's where the issue ...
Mr. Treister: We will, and we would like that opportunity
and I just hope that the City wouldn't act on this so
` impetuously and we would like ...
i
Mayor Ferre: No, it, is not an impetuous thing, Ken. I
think we really have an obligation if the State is willing
to put up a major amount of money to purchase a major piece
of waterfront. property. The least we can do is ... and I
would recommend that we word it in the following way, which
I think is only fair, that the City is about. to vote on
Second Reading on December 20th for your application to
develop it as you have proffered, that. we understand from
Dr. Gissendanner's telegram that there might be State monies
available for the purposes of purchasing the property for
that of a State park, but that in fairness to the developer,
that we need a very quick response and the Second Reading is
on December 20th and if we don't hear otherwise from them,
that we do ask them for the money if it is available, but we
do need an answer by the 20t.h.
Mr. Treister: But., Mr. Mayor, I think that the State has
not. been properly informed about this project. I don't
think they have been told that the Planning Department and
the Administration has supported this proposition. I think
they think an individual developer against the will of the
people and the City Planning Department is trying to do
something. I really don't think this has been presented...
Mayor Ferre: Well, I would couch it that way, that the
Planning Department and the Board has recommended this and
it is about to be voted on and the Commission on First
Reading voted favorably for it and it is about to concluded
December 20th and they have until then and the City is
anxious for an answer from and they are really serious in
this. Now, I think it is ... I just do not see how in the
world we can turn our back on Dr. Gissendanner's offer, if
there is one. On the other hand, I think you are entitled
to a speedy, expeditious answer.
i
Mr. Treister: Well, I just would like the opportunity of
talking to him and telling him the facts because ...
Mayor Ferre: I think you should immediately. I think you
should fly to Tallahassee and talk to the Governor and do
everything ... I expect for you to do that and I am sure
Marilyn and others will do the same.
Ms. Reed: Maybe I can calm you down, Ken. This is not
taking issue. You will have to negotiate with them, should
this occur. They are required by State law two A.I.A.'s,
market values involved, so don't feel afraid of this, we
just need to start the process.
Mr. Treister: No, we ... Marilyn, I appreciate. Number
one, we will not sell to the State. Number two, we want to
do the project. We think it is the best for the community.
Three, I don't think the State will take property that is
going to be open to the community and I don't think, four,
the State would want to frustrate the art center and I don't
think that the Commission, in debating whether we should
have our project or a State project, in my very ...
Mayor Ferre: How can you say no, for goodness sake?
Mr. Treister: Well, but it wouldn't ...
ld 149 November 15, 1984
094
Mayor Ferre: If the State says that they are willing to
make money available to purchase this land it is
waterfront., how could the City of Miami, not at least pursue
it to a reasonable extent so that, there is a reasonable
answer?
Mr. Treister: Well, as long as the City doesn't say there
would like it to be park instead of an art center and a
commercial development. If you are just saying to them ...
Mayor Ferre: I cannot speak for anybody but one person on
this Board, but. I am going to tell you that if the St•a*•e of
Florida says that they have money available to purchase any
piece of property, including Mr. Gould's project, okay ...?
or especially Mr. Gould's property, or any other major
proposed development., how in the world can this government
body say that we don't' want to listen, we don't want your
money? We don't. want any part, of your money - it is
unreasonable!
Mr. Treist.er: Mr. Mayor, it is a matter of priorities. We
have a Naval Reserve Training Center. I think the City
should say "Mr. State, give us all the money you can, let, us
help you make a wise decision" and then the City of Miami...
Mayor Ferre: I would want to put• that as a part of this,
that they should also consider the U. S. Naval Reserve
Center. I think that is appropriate. I think that is an
appropriate resolution.
Mr. Treister: I just feel bad that our people left - I am
just staying by accident speaking to Jack, and I don't.
really think if you ...
Mayor Ferre: I mentioned this before we broke up and
inadvertently everybody began to leave and we didn't deal
with the issue. This is one voice on the Commission.
(INAUDIBLE BACKGROUND COMMENTS)
Mayor Ferre: All right, what is the will of this
Commission, one way or the other?
Ms. Reed: Nobody is committed, it is just to support. the
idea.
Mr. Dawkins: Well, I feel like the Mayor - if the Governor
is going to give us the money, I make a motion that we ask
the Governor for the money. If the Governor doesn't give us
the money, we let, Mr. Treister build and even if we have the
money and Mr. Treist,er shows us a better project, then we go
with that.
Ms. Reed: We have to start. the process with a resolution.
It doesn't mean it is cut in concrete at all.
Mayor Ferre: All right. Is there a second to that motion
and I think that that mo+.ion should also cover the U. S.
Coast. Guard building and we should ask monies for ...
Mr. Dawkins: I move as amended by the Mayor.
Mr. Plummer: Second.
Mayor Ferre: Further discussion? Call the roll.
The following motion was introduced by
Commissioner Dawkins, who moved its adoption:
ld 150 November 15, 1984
MOTION NO. 84-1320
A MOTION EXPRESSING THE CONCERN OF THE
q
CITY COMMISSION TO THE STATE OF FLORIDA,
DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES, IN
CONNECTION WITH A TELEGRAM RECEIVED FROM
THE DIRECTOR, Mr. ELTON J. GISSENDANNER,
i CONCERNING THE POSSIBILITY OF STATE
FUNDS FOR POSSIBLE PURCHASE OF PROPERTY
LOCATED AT APPROXIMATELY 3471 MAIN
HIGHWAY, FOR USE AS A STATE PARK, AND
RESPECTFULLY REQUESTING THE APPROPRIATE
STATE AGENCY TO ATTEMPT TO RENDER AN
ANSWER TO THE CITY OF MIAMI COMMISSION
CONCERNING THIS PROPOSAL BEFORE DECEMBER
20TH, SINCE THIS MATTER IS SCHEDULED TO
BE VOTED UPON ON SECOND READING FOR A
ZONING CHANGE INVOLVING ITS DEVELOPMENT
BY A PRIVATE DEVELOPER; AND ALSO
REQUESTING THE APPROPRIATE STATE AGENCY
TO INCLUDE IN THEIR CONSIDERATION FOR
FUNDING AN ACQUISITION OF THE U.S. NAVAL
RESERVE TRAINING CENTER, LOCATED ON
SOUTH BAYSHORE DRIVE FOR A PUBLIC USE.
Upon being seconded by Commissioner Plummer, the motion
was passed and adopted by the following vote -
AYES: Commissioner Miller J. Dawkins
Commissioner J. L. Plummer, Jr.
Vice -Mayor Demetrio J. Perez, Jr.
Mayor Maurice A. Ferre
NOES: None.
ABSENT: Commissioner Joe Carollo
} Mr. Treister: What is the motion?
i
Mayor Ferre: The motion says - State of Florida, if you
really want to buy this property and you are serious and you
want to do it timely, we aroe going to be voting on this on
December 20th, you bring your money in and ...
Mr. Treister: Before that.
Mayor Ferre: That is right.
Mr. Treister: And also the Naval Reserve Training Center
would be an alternate site.
Mayor Ferre: That is right. .
-------------------------------------------------------------
36. FIRST READING ORDINANCE; TEXT AMENDMENT SIGNS,
LIMITATIONS, ETC. ARTICLE 20.
------------------------------------------------------------
Mayor Ferre: Mr. Knox.
ld 151
a, -
November 15, 1984
Mr. George Knox: For the record, my name is George F. Knox.
I am an attorney and a member of the law firm of Long, Knox
and Mays with offices located at, 4770 Biscayne Boulevard and
I represent a proponent of the measure that is before the
Commission at this time, respecting item 16 and the
proponent, J. Hancock, simply requests that the City
Commission approve and adopt. the recommendation of the
Planning Advisory Board, respecting an amendment to Section
9500 of the comprehensive zoning ordinance and further
recommend that, in the public interest, that, having adopted
the ordinance on First Reading, that. the Commission refer
the matter back to the Planning Advisory Board in order that:
a question of distance requirements from the Expressway may
be clarified and the request for the clarification is again
in the public interest. to prevent. a proliferation of outdoor
advertising signs along arterials which are parallel to
limi+.ed access highways.
Mr. Richard Whipple: Mr. Mayor and members of the
Commission, and you will note from the fact sheet., this item
was initiated by the Planning Department March 15th of this
year. We feel that the Department should have the
opportunity to make a full presentation before any enactment
on any reading of this ordinance. We initiated the item.
There was certain locution and little games played for a
number of months until final word was spoken on the record
that yes, in fact, the request is to change the ordinance to
allow billboards along the Expressway at heights 50, 60,
whatever number of feet. We are prepared to make a full
presentation of this item. The Administration believes we
should have this opportunity before any action and that we
should not be forced by virtue of time and what have you, to
not have this opportunity. As you know, it has been
deferred for various reasons over the past three or four
Commission meetings. There are many people involved who
want to speak on this item that have not had the opportunity
and ..
Mayor Ferre: How many people are here that wish to speak on
this?
i
Mr. Whipple: Well, there is only about two or three right,
now, but there is more, would be more, if the item was going
to be heard.
Mayor Ferre: Mr. Whipple, I do think that it is a very
important issue, and I do think that it is matter that has
to be properly presented, period. That is all I am going to
say.
Mr. Plummer: Well, Mr. Mayor ...
Mayor Ferre: I am prepared to make a presentation if the
Commission desires.
Mr. Plummer: You might, be prepared, but: you are going to be
doing it to an empty table. Mr. Mayor, as I said before,
the only way that we could do justice to this item before us
is to hear the full presentation of Mr. Whipple, to hear the
full presentation of the people who are vitally interested.
We cannot do it tonight. There is just no way we can do it
i tonight. It is not Mr. Hancock's fault, nor is it Mr.
Knox's or your fault that on t.wo different meetings
I everybody had to leave in a hurry. I will leave it at that.
Okay, now I am saying the only way we can do justice to this
according to what. I am told by the City Attorney because of
the time frame is to pass it on First Reading tonight, which
keeps back to the Planning Board, where then on the 20th you
have the right to make your full presentation. They make
their full presentation and the Commission will make a
ld
152
November 15, 1984
A
A
decision. That is why I said tonight, no discussion, just
merely do what is necessary. Stay within the framework of
the time, and that is what I am suggesting.
Mr. Whipple: Well, as this is the Department's petition,
the City Commission could direct us to take this back to the
Planning Advisory Board and bring it, on up in the proper
manner, not withstanding the time limi+.s that are currently
attached.
Mayor Ferre: Provided +.ha+, we don't get into a legal
problem on that, because if there is this 90 day stuff, I
will tell you ...
Mr. Whipple: Well, Number one, you are amending that
section sometime or other, perhaps.
Mayor Ferre: Now, you are not the lawyer.
Mr. Whipple: All I am saying is the alternative is to just
go ahead and send the whole thing back, start it over, do it
in a process, and perhaps even with the suggestion that when
it comes back to the City Commission, that we hold a Special
Hearing so that everybody could make their presentations
and...
Mayor Ferre: Mrs. Dougherty, we need a legal opinion on
this.
Mrs. Dougherty: Mr. Mayor, if you want to keep this
particular application and this particular ordinance alive,
you are going to have to pass it on First Reading and refer
it to the Planning Advisory Board again.
Mayor Ferre: Well, that is what Plummer is saying. Whipple
is saying ...
Mrs. Dougherty: If you want to keep this application
alive - I think what the Administration is saying, start it
all again, but if you want to keep this one alive, you are
just going to have to ...
Mayor Ferre: Is that, what you are saying - you start it all
over again?
Mr. Whipple: What I am saying ...
Mayor Ferre: Just yes or no.
Mr. Whipple: ... I do not: believe the City Commission should
take an official action such as First Reading without having
full presentation from both sides.
Mr. Plummer: And Whipple, this Commission doesn't want to
do that.! But, the only way that, we can be fair to you and
to these people is to do it because of this 90 day time
frame.
Mayor Ferre: Lucia, see, in effect, I did that this
morning, as you know, even though we did hear it on this
issue on the 22nd with Carollo. Now, so you know, I can in
effect rule that that is not proper, I don't think. I don't
think I have the prerogative of ruling it out of order. In
other words, I do think that it is proper for a member of
this Commission. I guess I could get into the
technicalities and rule that we can't vote on it if there is
no presentation, but as you know, in the Metropolitan Dade
County, they traditionally pass things on First Reading and
the public hearing is the second hearing.
ld 153 November 15, 1984
Mrs. Dougherty: This is a zoning ordinance and it takes
two public hearings.
Mayor Ferre: I see. Well, this is technically a public
hearing, is that correct? I can't deny Rose Gordon, who is
back there, and anybody else a right, +o speak. Now, I don't
think my posi+.ion is any secret.. Oh, it is a secret?
Everybody knows I am opposed to this, but that is just one
person's opinion, but I don't want to get into a big hassle
in discussing this, and I think Commissioner Plummer has a
valid request, which is to pass it on First Reading so as to
keep the thing alive, send it back to the Planning Board and
then we will have a full fledged presentation and Public
Hearing for the Second Reading.
Mrs. Dougherty: The Administration has just made a second
suggestion. That is, you send it back to the Planning
Board, have them come back up for First and Second Reading.
While you are there, you are towing your 15 day time. That
may get you back where that 30 day ... if you pass the other
ordinance, that would repeal that 90 day period, Item 15.
That. doesn't come into effect for 30 days.
Mr. Plummer: I will be happy to move Item 15. That has
caused us more grief.
Mayor Ferre: Okay, we will get to that in a moment, as soon
as we finish with this. Now, what is the will of the
Commission on this particular item? I will accept: a motion
either way, but I do have to let Rose and others who want to
speak speak. Mrs. Gordon?
Mr. Plummer: Mr. Mayor, I have made my point very well -
pass it on First Reading, send it back to Planning Advisory
Board, bring it back on the 20th for a full blown
discussion.
Mayor Ferre: I will accept that as a motion, but this is a
public hearing and whoever wishes to speak on this has a
right to speak. Mrs. Gordon, would you like to speak on
this?
Mrs. Rose Gordon: Mr. Mayor, I know a great number of
people that would like to speak on this issue that are not:
here right, now.
Mr. Plummer: Aren't here?
Mrs. Rose Gordon: Are not here, no, and if this is a public
hearing, I feel like it is inadequate for me to be the only
one to speak to the issue when the issue is so important to
the City of Miami. I urge you to take whatever legal means
there is to defer this, and not take any action, because
taking an action would give an impression of acceptance, and
I don'.*.believe that acceptance of this - these changes are
best the best interests of the City.
Mr. Knox: Mr. Mayor, if I may, please. It may be
unfortunate that there are not persons here. It is a public
hearing. I believe that, there has been no defect in the
notice. The matter is properly agendaed. Notice is given
to the public by advertisement in the newspaper and all of
the procedural requirements for a public hearing have been
met and there is no reason not to adopt the measure on First
Reading, especially in light of the fact that as all of us
know, an ordinance does not. become effective, particularly
as relates to land use, unless there is a reading on two
public days, record of public days and a thirty day period
following the Second Reading.
ld 154
November 15, 1984
r
Mrs. Gordon: May I speak again, Mr. Mayor?
Mayor Ferre: Go ahead.
Mrs. Gordon: With respect to Mr. Knox, who is a proponent
for the change representing a particular interest that would
have an economic benefit, from the change, those people who
would be here to speak against it have no economic benefit
and would be strongly opposed to the change and to pass it
even on First. Reading, in my opinion, is condoning the
change and giving the wrong impression to people that you
were favoring it. Therefore, I would suggest, that you
either take no action, or vote negatively, if you must.
Mr. Plummer: Rose, no action by the statute means it dies,
all right., because of a 90 day time frame for us. No action
at all, that is what that. means.
Mrs. Gordon: I an not a legal counselor, so I don't, really
don't know and I know you have a competent one this year.
If there is any way that this could be kept: alive and not
adopted tonight, I would strongly urge that. Thank you.
Mrs. Dougherty: There is no way that this particular
application can stay alive without passing it on First
Reading and referring it back.
(INAUDIBLE BACKGROUND COMMENT)
Mrs. Dougherty: You would have to do both.
Mayor Ferre: Well now, which is this? Is that it? ...
because you just said something differently five minutes ago
that the Administration wanted for us to send it back and if
this is what: the Administration wants legal, or not.?
i
4
Mrs. Dougherty: Yes, certainly, it is legal.
Mayor Ferre: Well then ...
Mrs. Dougherty: They are just starting it all over with
First and Second Reading.
3
Mayor Ferre: So in effect, we have three options. One, is
denial, but I think out of fairness to the Petitioner, we
have to have a full hearing on this. The second thing is to
pass it: on First Reading and send it back to the Planning
Board for further discussion to be brought back for Second
Hearing eventually. The third way to do it is to send the
whole matter back to the Planning Board for further
deliberation, is that what: you are telling me? That legally
keeps it alive too.
Mr. Dawkins: That: doesn't legally keep it alive. That
kills it. It starts it all over.
Mr. No, it doesn't! Please stop the clock.
Mayor Ferre: What is the will of this Commission? One way
or the other, we need to get along, because we have got a
3
lot of people here from Morningside. We have people here on
the revenue sharing, we have all kinds of things.
Mr. Perez: I would like to approve Mayor, on First Reading,
6
if legal. I would like ... I think Commissioner Plummer has
made the motion and I will second.
Mayor Ferre: There is motion now by Plummer, seconded by
Perez that this matter be passed on First Reading and sent
back to the Planning Board, and then eventually to come up
ld 155 November 15, 1984
% ON
on Second Reading, at. which there will be a public hearing
at which time ...
Mrs. Dougherty: Another public hearing.
Mayor Ferre: Another public hearing.
Mr. Plummer: Continued public hearing.
Mayor Ferre: Continued public hearing. Is }.here anybody
here who wishes to speak at this time on this issue.
Mrs. Dougherty: Second public hearing.
Mayor Ferre: Yes sir, Mr. Whipple?
Mr. Whipple: Mr. Mayor, I believe the date certain needs to
be attached to the motion and my only question was about. the
20th.
Mayor Ferre: I will tell you one thing certain, it is not
going to be December 20th!
Mr. Whipple: That is what I was wondering, sir.
Mayor Ferre: No way we can do it December 20th the way that
agenda is piled up now - we have got 27 - on the committee
and all this - there is no way it can!
Mr. Perez: We have to appoint a committee.
Mr. Whipple: That is why I brought it to the Commission's
attention.
Mayor Ferre: You are right. You are indeed right!
Mr. Plummer: Give a date certain.
Mayor Ferre: The January meeting is what, the 24th?
January 24th. Okay, further discussion? Call the roll.
AN ORDINANCE ENTITLED -
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE TEXT OF ZONING
ORDINANCE NO. 9500, AS AMENDED, THE
ZONING ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF MIAMI,
FLORIDA, BY AMENDING SECTION 2026
ENTITLED "SIGNS, SPECIFIC LIMITATIONS,
AND REQUIREMENTS," OF ARTICLE 20
ENTITLED "GENERAL AND SUPPLEMENTARY
REGULATIONS" TO CLARIFY BILLBOARD HEIGHT
AND CHANGE BILLBOARD HEIGHT
REQUIREMENTS, INTRODUCE A BILLBOARD
SPACING FORMULA AND CHANGE CURRENT
LIMITATIONS ON BILLBOARDS LOCATED WITHIN
600' OF LIMITED ACCESS HIGHWAYS,
INCLUDING EXPRESSWAYS; FURTHER, AMENDING
SHEET 5 OF THE OFFICIAL SCHEDULE OF
DISTRICT REGULATIONS MADE A PART OF SAID
ORDINANCE 9500 BY REFERENCE AND
DESCRIPTION IN SECTION 320 THEREOF,
PERTAINING TO CG GENERAL COMMERCIAL
ZONING DISTRICT, LIMITATIONS ON SIGNS,
BY CLARIFYING APPLICABLE SURFACE AREA
AND PROVIDING FOR HEIGHT LIMITATIONS ON
GROUND OR FREE-STANDING SIGNS ONSITE AND
OFFSITE; CONTAINING A REPEALER PROVISION
AND A SEVERABILITY CLAUSE.
ld 156 November 15, 1984
AN
Was introduced by Commissioner Plummer and seconded by
Commissioner Perez and passed on its first reading by ti*,le
by the following vote -
AYES: Commissioner Miller J. Dawkins
Commissioner J. L. Plummer, Jr.
Vice -Mayor Demetrio Perez, Jr.
NOES: Mayor Maurice A. Ferre
ABSENT: Commissioner Joe Carollo
ON ROLL CALL:
Mr. Plummer: For the record, what we are voting on - that
which was read is the recommendation of the P.A.B., okay?
So that is for the record. I vote yes.
The City Attorney read the ordinance into the public
record and stated that copies had been furnished to the City
Commission and that copies were available to the public.
37. SECOND READING ORDINANCE: ARTICLE 35 AMENDMENTS,
FAILURE OF CITY COMMISSION TO ACT, PROVISION COMMISSION
MAY CONTINUE TO DATE CERTAIN, ETC.
Mr. Plummer: Can I move Agenda Item 15? I don't think that
will be controversial. I move Item 15.
Mayor Ferre: All right, Plummer moves 15.
Mr. Perez: Second.
Mayor Ferre: There is a second. Is there anybody here who
wishes to speak on Item 15 on Second Reading? If not,, read
the ordinance.
AN ORDINANCE ENTITLED -
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE TEXT OF
ORDINANCE NO. 9500, AS AMENDED, THE
ZONING ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF MIAMI,
FLORIDA, BY AMENDING SECTION 35-13 OF
ARTICLE 35 BY ADDING A PROVISION THAT
THE CITY COMMISSION MAY CONTINUE
CONSIDERATION OF A RECOMMENDATION OF THE
PLANNING ADVISORY BOARD OR THE ZONING
BOARD TO A DATE CERTAIN AND STAY THE
TIME WITHIN WHICH THE ITEM IS TO BE
LEGISLATIVELY DECIDED DURING SUCH
CONTINUANCES; FURTHER, PROVIDING THAT IN
THE INSTANCE OF A REFERRAL TO A BOARD OR
A CONTINUANCE TO A DATE CERTAIN, THE
INTERVENING TIME SHALL NOT BE COUNTED
AND THE NOTICE REQUIREMENTS OF THE CITY
CODE SHALL NOT APPLY TO THE ITEM UPON
ITS SUBSEQUENT CONSIDERATION BY THE CITY
COMMISSION; CONTAINING A REPEALER
PROVISION AND SEVERABILITY CLAUSE.
passed on its first, reading by title at, the meeting of July
31, 1984, was taken up for its second and final reading by
title and adoption. On motion of Commissioner Plummer,
seconded by Commissioner Perez, the Ordinance was thereupon
given its second and final reading by title and passed and
adopted by the following vote-
ld 157 November 15, 1984
As
AYES: Commissioner J. L. Plummer, Jr.
Vice -Mayor Demetrio Perez, Jr.
Mayor Maurice A. Ferre
NOES: None.
ABSENT: Commissioner Miller J. Dawkins
Commissioner Joe Carollo
THE ORDINANCE WAS DESIGNATED ORDINANCE -NO, 9935
The City Attorney read *.he ordinance into the public
record and announced that copies were available to the
members of the City Commission and to the public.
38. APPOINTMENT OF PERSONS TO BLUE RIBBON COMMITTEE TO
STUDY VARIOUS PLANNING AND ZONING PROPOSED PIECES OF
LEGISLATION.
Mayor Ferre: You have a list, of the people that were on the
Advisory 9500 Review Committee, where Mr. Gary and Garcia -
Pedrosa were co-chairmen and we have a list of the people
who were represented, or who were for it.
Mr. Plummer: I nominate Mr. Hank Greene.
Mayor Ferre: All right, we have a nomination.
Mr. Plummer: The Blue Ribbon Committee.
Mayor Ferre: Okay, Mr. Perez?
Mr. Perez: Guillermo Freixas.
Mayor Ferre: He is on the Zoning Board. That is good -
this makes this continuity. I appoint Mr. Walter Pierce. (T
A P E 18) We need the other two appointments. All right,
there is a motion by Commissioner Perez that the three
mentioned members plus two others that Dawkins and Carollo
will appoint be appointed to a Blue Ribbon Advisory
Committee that will recommend to the Commission and to the
individuals that were appointed there positions on the items
that. were deferred today and will be heard on the 20th of
December, as I remember - 17, 19, 21, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27,
and 28. Perez moves, Plummer seconds. Further discussion?
Call the roll.
ld
158 November 15, 1984
The following motion was in+.roduced
Commissioner Perez, who moved its adoption:
MOTION NO. 84-1321
A MOTION APPOINTING THE FOLLOWING
INDIVIDUALS AS A BLUE RIBBON COMMITTEE
TO STUDY AND RECOMMEND TO THE CITY
COMMISSION IN CONNECTION WITH AGENDA
ITEMS NOS. 17, 19, 21, 12, 24, 25, 26,
27 AND 28 OF THE PLANNING 7 ZONING
AGENDA OF NOVEMBER 15, 1984 IN
CONNECTION WITH ITEMS WHICH WERE
DEFERRED ON THIS DATE AND WHICH WILL BE
HEARD AT THE MEETING PRESENTING
SCHEDULED FOR DECEMBER 20, 1984: (1)
Mayor Ferre appointed JANET COOPER (or
Stan Price as an alternate if Ms. Cooper
is unavailable); (2) Commissioner J. L.
Plummer appointed HANK GREENE; (3) Vice
Mayor Perez appointed GUILLERMO FREIXAS;
and Commissioner Dawkins appointed RON
FRAZIER. (NOTE: Pending is Commissioner
Joe Carollo's appointment.).
by
Upon being seconded by Commissioner Plummer, the motion
was passed and adopted by the following vote -
AYES: Commissioner J. L. Plummer, Jr.
Vice -Mayor Demetrio Perez, Jr.
Mayor Maurice A. Ferre
NOES: None.
ABSENT: Commissioner Miller J. Dawkins
Commissioner Joe Carollo
Mayor Ferre: Walter, maybe I should appoint Janet Cooper.
You are going to be ex-officio anyway, right? Let the
record reflect that I would Janet Cooper - is she around?
She is going off to Europe next Wednesday. I would appoint
Janet Cooper and if she is not available, in her place -
Stan Price. All right, I will appoint Janet Cooper on this
committee and if she cannot accept because she must go to
Europe, or if she does go to Europe, and the meeting is
subsequent to that, I would appoint Stan Price. And I
would - I think that the Administration should appoint
somebody ex-officio and the City Attorney's office should
appoint somebody ex-officio - either the Manager, or the
City Attorney, whoever they appoint, should be present, at.
all meetings, okay? Let the motion so reflect. Is that all
right. with the maker and seconder of the motion? Call the
roll.
Mr. Ongie: I will just change it..
39. ALLOCATE $88,537 FY 84-85 F.R.S.F. FOR PREVIOUSLY
APPnnVED SOCr'T• SERVICE AGRNCIES DE. 1, 1984 THRU
DECEMBER 31, 1984
. t UHE-TWELFTH )
------------------------------------------------------------
Mr. Plummer: Did we do Agenda Item 40? 40 is Federal
Revenue Sharing. All we are going to do is one -twelfth,
right? That is it? I move Item 40 for an additional one -
twelfth.
Mayor Ferre: Is there a second?
ld
159
November 15, 1984
MW
Mr.
Perez: Yes. I need a minute to clarify a
resolution
that
we approved the other day. It, is a senior
center of
Dade
County. You have to clarify something on
the senior
center
of Dade County.4
Mr.
Plummer: That has nothing to do with revenue
sharing.
r
Mr. Perez: That is right, that has nothing to do with
revenue sharing. The resolution that we approved -
Mr. Plummer: Four of them.
Mr. Perez: Yes, four. One, was senior seniors.
Mr. Frank Castaneda: Yes, the senior centers the purpose
was not clear. Last, time remember, I asked if it was for
meals or if it is a new program or social service or
of
Mr. Plummer: Continuation - the four of them. Continuation
until a further decision by this Board.
Mr. Perez: That is right ... (INAUDIBLE) ....
Mr. Plummer: Never been considered by this Commission. We
haven't seen it. I have never seen a food bill program for
senior citizens.
Mr. Castaneda: We have just received one. We have
available.
Mr. Plummer: I have not, seen it.
Mr. Castaneda: I know.
Mr. Perez: They closed that project. How are you going to
fund that project?
Mr. Castaneda: Our intent tonight. was to deal with the
revenue sharing issues, not just an additional one -twelfth.
Mr. Perez: There is something here that we want to clarify
that we approve. ...(INAUDIBLE)...
Mr. Castandea: Right. They were in last: Friday. We have
evaluations that are just being completed. They are
available.
Mr. Perez: Okay, but now do you think that they have the
same program that they have last year?
Mr. Castaneda: I know that they have been *here
continuously.
Mr. Perez: Okay, I want it clear.
Mr. Jose Feito: My name is Jose Feito, 3663 S. W. 8t.h
Street and I am coming here for representing Professio,
Inc., which we filed the application late and we were
considered last, year and we were granted $10,000. We are an
organization that we help and bring medical services to the
needy people of this community, and all free of charge and
all the people working in this group are volunteers and we
were presented to you last year and we received the support
from this Commission. I am here for any questions you have
on this matter.
Mr. Plummer: Do you understand what we are doing tonight,?
Id 160 November 15, 1984
Mr. Feito: I am not sure, but. I want to be here.
Mayor Ferre: We are funding it. for one -twelfth so we can
get one ...
Mr. Plummer: This is a continuation of old fund's programs
from last year. No new programs are being considered.
Mr. Feito: So I cannot talk on this issue?
Mr. Plummer: Not, tonight.
Mr. Feito: Okay.
Mr. Castaneda: Professio is a new program. It is not under
the one -twelfth.
Mayor Ferre: So he doesn't ...
Mr. Feito: I was considered lasts year, but in another kind
of program.
Mr. Castaneda: Mr. Mayor and Commissioners, I would like to
be clear that if you continue this one -twelfth policy, there
is only a balance of $273,000, so in three more months you
would have expended all of your funds unless you increase
the allocations.
Mr. Plummer: Sir, 1 will remind you that this Commission
pulls rabbits out. of the hat with an additional $250,000
without. even thinking about it, but: it is kind of hard to
say no to hungry people.
Mr. Castaneda: It sure is.
Mayor Ferre: Further discussion? Plummer moves. Perez
seconds, call the roll.
The following resolution was introduced by Commissioner
Plummer, who moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 84-1322
A RESOLUTION ALLOCATING $88,537 OF
FY184-85 FEDERAL REVENUE SHARING FUNDS
APPROPRIATED BY PASSAGE OF ORDINANCE NO.
84-9901 TO PREVIOUSLY APPROVED SOCIAL
SERVICE AGENCIES LISTED HEREIN FOR THE
PERIOD FROM DECEMBER 1, 1984 THROUGH
DECEMBER 31, 1984; AUTHORIZING THE CITY
MANAGER TO AMEND AGREEMENTS, IN A FORM
ACCEPTABLE TO THE CITY ATTORNEY, WITH
SAID AGENCIES FOR CONTINUED
IMPLEMENTATION OF THE RESPECTIVE SOCIAL
SERVICE PROGRAMS.
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here
and on file in the Office of the City Clerk.)
Upon being seconded by Commissioner Perez, the
resolution was passed and adopted by the following vote -
AYES: Commissioner J. L. Plummer, Jr.
Vice -Mayor Demetrio Perez, Jr.
Mayor Maurice A. Ferre
NOES: None.
ABSENT: Commissioner Miller J. Dawkins
Commissioner Joe Carollo
ld 161 November 15, 1984
40. RATIFY ACTION ON CITY MANAGER IN EXTENDING DEADLINE FOR
SUBMISSION OF R.F.P.'s FOR SOUTHHEAST OVERTOWN
PARK/WEST REDEVELOPMENT PROJECT.
Mayor Ferre: Take up Agenda item 39.
Mr. Perez: Moved.
J Mayor Ferre: Perez moves 39. Plummer seconds 39. Further
discussion? Call the roll.
The following resolution was introduced by Commissioner
Perez, who moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 84-1323
A RESOLUTION RATIFYING AND APPROVING THE
ACTIONS OF THE CITY MANAGER IN EXTENDING
THE DEADLINE FOR THE SUBMISSION OF
REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS FOR THE SOUTHEAST
OVERTOWN/PARK WEST REDEVELOPMENT PROJECT
PHASE I, FROM OCTOBER 31, 1984 TO
DECEMBER 14, 1984; FURTHER DIRECTING THE
CITY MANAGER TO INFORM ALL INTERESTED
PARTIES OF SAID EXTENSION IN THE SAME
MANNER AS WHICH THE REQUEST FOR
PROPOSALS WAS DISTRIBUTED.
S
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here
1 and on file in the Office of the City Clerk.)
a
Upon being seconded by Commissioner Plummer, the
resolution was passed and adopted by the following vote -
AYES: Commissioner J. L. Plummer, Jr.
Vice -Mayor Demetrio Perez, Jr.
Mayor Maurice A. Ferre
NOES: None.
ABSENT: Commissioner Miller J. Dawkins
Commissioner Joe Carollo
41. FIRST READING ORDINANCE: APPLY HERITAGE CONSERVATON
OVERLAY DISTRICT HC-1 TO MORNINGSIDE HISTORIC DISTRICT.
------------------------------------------------------------
Mayor Ferre: Morningside - Agenda Item 5. Go ahead. The
Chair recognizes Item 5.
Mr. Plummer: Are most of you people out there for
Morningside opposed?
(INAUDIBLE COMMENTS FROM MEMBERS OF AUDIENCE)
Mr. Plummer: I am sure glad it is a clear answer!
Mayor Ferre: All right., go ahead, present Morningside.
Ms. Sara Eaton: Mr. Mayor and members of the Commission, I
am am Sarah Eaton, Historic Preservation consultant, to the
ld 162
November 15, 1984
City. Morningside is the first historic district. t.ha*. we
have proposed for the City, as opposed to the individual
sites that, you have previously heard. Morningside is one of
the very few neighborhoods that was developed during the
1920's and 30's that remains intact, and retains its
character and its charm. The designation reports that you
have in your packet explains in del -ail the historic and
architectural significance of the district; and I would like
to point out, for the record that Morningside meets at, least
six of the criteria for designation where only one is
required.
Mayor Ferre: In the interest of time, and I don't want to
deny the ... first of all, you are very pretty and you are
nicely dressed and all that and speak well, and I hate to
deny you the right to speak, but:, I think that everybody ...
is anybody opposed to this?
Ms. Eaton: Well, there has been opposition that we have ...
I don't believe anyone is here, as there was opposition at
the Planning Advisory Board. We have met ...
Mayor Ferre: Is anybody opposed to it. here? All these
people have been sitting patiently all day and I think - I
have read about: it; there was a very nice article in the
Miami Herald, wasn't. there?
Ms. Eaton: I think the reason the opponents are not here is
because we agreed to compromise with them, even though we
still stand by our original recommendation, we do not oppose
a change in boundaries.
Mr. Plummer: May I make a suggestion? Can we pass this on
First Reading. We have got to have a Second Reading anyhow
and if these people want to come back and have a full blown
hearing, let us do it then.
Ms. Eaton: Could we pass the item with the amendment that
you see?
Mayor Ferre: It. is to exclude the properties on Biscayne
Boulevard from the district. It follows the current zoning
boundaries.
Mayor Ferre: Does anybody disagree with that? You do?
Tell us why. On the record, name and address.
Mr. Neal Robertson: My name is Neal Robertson. I live at.
670 N. E. 56th Street. My feeling that the boulevard is the
entryway to the entire neighborhood is very important to
this neighborhood and what is going to happen in this area
as a hist:,•ric district. People that are going to have
businesses or residents or whatever along the boulevard are
going to gain by the fact that we a historic district. As a
consequence, they should also chip in and do their fair
share to make sure that it is than historic nature of the
neighborhood is preserved. Now, I understand the primary
resistance to the property owners along the way who want to
develop their land. You want to build something new out
there. What, we are talking about here is not going to stand
in your way. If you are going to alter something that is
there, you simply have to come before this board who will
approve your plans. Their are going to gain financial
benefits to this. The primary objective I am
certain that as soon as this goes into effect, they are
going to advertise they overlooked historic Morningside.
Well, I think they should contribute to the group if they
are going to grab a benefit by being a part of that
community. That is my reason for resisting. I don't want
to exclude that area.
ld
163 November 15, 1984
Mayor Ferre: I think it is a valid reason, but, there is
also another side to if., and I think in the interests of at
least moving this matter ahead with the least, amount of
pain — I think if we don't do it as is recommended by Ms.
Eaton in this compromise, then I think we would have, in
fairness to the other people, have to put this whole matter
off and let them have an opportunity to come back and speak,
and I think we should move forward with the recommendation
as amended and get, this matter under way, and if you wish to
pursue it. further on the boulevard portion of it, then we
would have to call these people back.
Mr. Robertson: Mr. Mayor, I am not certain that I
understand the Cit.y's procedures on this, but. I believe the
Planning Board approved it. without the amendment.. I am
don't know the procedures. Can you do that or not?
Mr. Plummer: We have the right to amend.
Mr. Robertson: Okay.
Mr. Plummer: Well, let me move it ...
Mayor Ferre: Well, let's hear from this lady, because she
may have something to add to this.
Ms. Schaeffer: I am Nora Schaeffer. I live at. 598 N. E.
56th Street. I am a member of the Heritage Conservation
Board for the City of Miami. The boulevard frontage, which
I am not sure that Neal is aware of, has very few historic
buildings on it and the ones that are there have already
been restored and are being taken care of. The ordinance
would simply want to preserve things that were already
historic, and it wouldn't really be putting any kind of, as
I understand it ... they would have no power over a building
like Mr. , so if we can make this compromise and
get done with this, since we have all been here twice, we
would really appreciate it very much.
Mayor Ferre: So you think we should move on with this.
Ms. Schaeffer: Yes, I do.
Mr. One thing that I would like to add for the
record is to protect those properties that the gentlemen was
talking about, we are intending to come back to the
Commission with a proposal for an S.P.I. district covering
the properties strung in the of our area, that, we take
into account guidelines and additional measurements to
protect the quality that we would like to get in that area.
Mayor Ferre: Is there now therefore an amended motion on
Item 5? Plummer moves. Perez seconds. Is there further
discu
ld 164 November 15, 1984
#�•
ssion? Call the roll.
AN ORDINANCE ENTITLED -
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING ORDINANCE NO.
9500, THE ZONING ORDINANCE OF THE CITY
OF MIAMI, FLORIDA, BY APPLYING THE HC-1,
GENERAL USE HERITAGE CONSERVATION
OVERLAY DISTRICT TO THE "MORNINGSIDE
HISTORIC DISTRICT," AN AREA GENERALLY
BOUNDED BY NORTHEAST 60TH STREET ON THE
NORTH, BISCAYNE BAY AND MORNINGSIDE PARK
ON THE EAST, THE REAR LOT LINE BETWEEN
NORTHEAST 55TH STREET AND NORTHEAST 53RD
STREET ON THE SOUTH, AND BISCAYNE
BOULEVARD ON THE WEST (MORE PARTICULARLY
DESCRIBED HEREIN); MAKING FINDINGS; AND
BY MAKING ALL THE NECESSARY CHANGES ON
PAGE 14 OF THE ZONING ATLAS MADE A PART
OF SAID ORDINANCE NO. 9500, BY REFERENCE
AND DESCRIPTION IN ARTICLE 3, SECTION
300, THEREOF; CONTAINING A REPEALER
PROVISION AND A SEVERABILITY CLAUSE.
Was introduced by Commissioner Plummer and seconded by
Commissioner Perez and passed on its first reading by title
by the following vote -
AYES: Commissioner Miller J. Dawkins
Commissioner J. L. Plummer, Jr.
Vice -Mayor Demetrio J. Perez, Jr.
Mayor Maurice A. Ferre
NOES: None.
ABSENT: Commissioner Joe Carollo
The City Attorney read the ordinance into the public
record and stated that copies had been furnished to the City
Commission and that copies were available to the public.
42. ESTABLISH DATE OF DECEMBER 3, 1984 AS DAY OF SPECIAL
MEETING TO CONSIDER ON -GOING MATTERS CONCERNED WITH THE
BAYSIDE DEVELOPMENT.
------------------------------------------------------------
Mayor Ferre: J. L. before you move Item 33, I want to do
this with you and Miller present. Commissioner Carollo - we
4
delivered a copy of the procedure that. Lucia Dougherty - he
told me that he was willing to get out of sick bed and come
here. Out, of consideration for my colleague Commissioner
Dawkins' statement this morning and out of consideration for
Commissioner Carollo who is willing to come and vote for
these procedures, what I am going to do is this, which is a
kind of compromise position. As Mayor, the Charter gives me
the right to set rules, so I will announce that the
#
submission of Lucia Dougherty of rules and procedures for
the public hearing for Mr. Gary - I am hereby on the record
stating that. those are going to be the rules we will be
guided by. However, I will accept amendments to them. We
will discuss them on the 29th when we will be meeting next
time, at which time, we will then hopefully come to a final
conclusion on the rules ...
Mr. Plummer: 29t.h of what?
ld 165 November 15, 1984
0
Mayor
Ferre:
of
November. We have a meeting ...
Mr. Plummer:
You
do maybe, but we don't!
Mayor
Ferre:
What
day are we going to have a meeting?
Mrs.
Dougherty:
On the 12th.
Mayor
Ferre:
We
said we had a meeting, as I remember ...
Mr. Gary:
This was
regarding the Rouse project.
Mayor
Ferre:
The
Rouse project?
Mr. Gary: But you did not decide on that. I had a talk
with Gilchrist.
Mayor Ferre: You were going to give us an answer whether or
not ...
Mr. Gary: Right,. I've talked to Mr. Gilchrist• and Mr.
Weaver and they prefer to do it on the 3rd or the 4th.
Mayor Ferre: 3rd or 4th of what?
Mr. Gary: Of December. There is a ceremonial signing with
the major - down at ... Ed Rouse ...
Mayor Ferre: What date do you want, Mr. Manager, the 3rd or
the 4th? I am talking about. Rouse now - Bayside.
Mr. Gary: The 3rd.
Mayor Ferre: All right, Plummer moves, Dawkins seconds that
the Bayside meeting be held on the 3rd of December.
Mr. Ongie: We need to call the roll on Bayside.
Mayor Ferre: Call the roll.
The following motion was introduced by
Commissioner Plummer, who moved its adoption:
MOTION NO. 84-1324
A MOTION DECLARING THE DATE OF DECEMBER
3, 1984 AT 12:00 NOON AS THE DATE OF A
SPECIAL CITY COMMISSION MEETING TO
CONSIDER THE ON -GOING MATTERS CONCERNED
WITH THE "BAYSIDE PROJECT" WHICH IS TO
BE DEVELOPED BY THE ROUSE COMPANY.
Upon being seconded by Commissioner Dawkins, the motion
was passed and adopted by the following vote -
AYES: Commissioner Miller J. Dawkins
Commissioner J. L. Plummer, Jr.
Vice -Mayor Demetrio J. Perez, Jr.
Mayor Maurice A. Ferre
NOES: None.
ABSENT: Commissioner Joe Carollo
ON ROLL CALL: 12:00 noon, is that all right with you guys?
12:00 noon, all right I vote yes.
-------------------------------------------
ld
166 November 15, 1984
eis
43. AUTHORIZE AGREEMENT: MIAMI DADE COMMUNITY COLLEGE -
ESTABLISH POLICE LIEUTENANT PROMOTIONAL PROCEDURES
Mr. Plummer: I move Agenda Item 33•
Mayor Ferre: There is a motion and second on Item 33.
Okay.
The following resolution was introduced by Commissioner
Plummer, who moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 84-1325
A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE CITY
MANAGER TO EXECUTE AN AGREEMENT WITH
MIAMI-DADE COMMUNITY COLLEGE, IN
SUBSTANTIALLY THE FORM ATTACHED, FOR
PROFESSIONAL SERVICE OF AN ASSESSMENT
CENTER FOR THE PURPOSE OF ESTABLISHING
POLICE LIEUTENANT PROMOTIONAL PROCEDURES
AT A COST NOT TO EXCEED TWENTY-NINE
THOUSAND AND FOUR HUNDRED DOLLARS
($29,400.00) WITH FUNDS THEREFOR
ALLOCATED FROM THE POLICE DEPARTMENT
BUDGET.
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here
and on file in the Office of the City Clerk.)
Upon being seconded by Commissioner Dawkins, the
resolution was passed and adopted by the following vote -
AYES: Commissioner Miller J. Dawkins
Commissioner J. L. Plummer, Jr.
Vice -Mayor Demetrio J. Perez, Jr.
Mayor Maurice A. Ferre
NOES: None.
ABSENT: Commissioner Joe Carollo
44. AUTHORIZE COMPETITIVE QUOTES: BORROW 12.4 MILLION TO
INITIATE STORM DRAIN PROJECTS & POLICE FACILITIES.
Mr. Dawkins: I move Agenda Item 35.
Mayor Ferre: Hold on.
Mr. Gary: 35 allows us to go our. and borrow money so that
we can begin the storm drainage projects and police
facilities. See police facilities underlined?
Mr. Dawkins: I move it.
Mayor Ferre: Dawkins moves.
discussion? Call the roll.
Id
Plummer seconds. Further
167 November 15, 1984
The following resolution was introduced by Commissioner
Dawkins, who moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 84-1326
A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE CITY
MANAGER TO SECURE COMPETITIVE QUOTES
FROM INTERESTED FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS
FOR THE PURPOSE OF BORROWING $12.4
1 MILLION TO BE SECURED BY NOTES ISSUED BY
l THE CITY, SAID FUNDS TO BE USED TO
INITIATE CONSTRUCTION OF STORM DRAIN
PROJECTS AND POLICE FACILITIES; FURTHER
PROVIDING THAT SAID NOTES WILL MATURE IN
APPROXIMATELY EIGHT MONTHS AND WILL BE
REPAID FROM THE PROCEEDS OF THE SALE OF
AUTHORIZED GENERAL OBLIGATION BONDS
ANTICIPATED TO BE SOLD IN THE SPRING OF
1985.
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here
and on file in the Office of the City Clerk.)
Upon being seconded by Commissioner Plummer, the
resolution was passed and adopted by the following vote -
AYES: Commissioner Miller J. Dawkins
Commissioner J. L. Plummer, Jr.
Vice -Mayor Demetrio J. Perez, Jr.
Mayor Maurice A. Ferre
NOES: None.
ABSENT: Commissioner Joe Carollo
45. CONTINUE ALL OTHER ITEMS NOT TAKEN UP TO DECEMBER 20,
1984.
------------------------------------------------------------
Mr. Gary: You need a motion to continue all those items you
did not take up today.
Mayor Ferre: All right., there is a motion by Plummer,
seconded by Dawkins that all items not voted on this agenda
be continued to the next date certain Commission meeting
which is December 20th. Further discussion, call the roll.
The following motion was introduced by
Commissioner Plummer, who moved its adoption:
MOTION NO. 84-1327
A MOTION TO CONTINUE ALL PLANNING AND
ZONING ITEMS ON THE NOVEMBER 15, 1984
AGENDA WHICH WERE NOT ACTED UPON BY THE
CITY COMMISSION ON THIS DATE TO THE
METING PRESENTLY SCHEDULED FOR DECEMBER
20, 1984.
Upon being seconded by Commissioner Dawkins, the motion
was passed and adopted by the following vote -
AYES: Commissioner Miller J. Dawkins
j Commissioner J. L. Plummer, Jr.
Vice -Mayor Demetrio J. Perez, Jr.
Mayor Maurice A. Ferre
ld
168 November 15, 1984
e*1 eo*)
NOES: None.
ABSENT: Commissioner Joe Carollo
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business to come before the City
Commission, on motion duly made and seconded, the meeting
was adjourned at 8:03 P.M.
ATTEST: RALPH G. ONGIE
City Clerk
MATTY HIRAI
Assistant City Clerk
169
MAURICE A. FERRE
Mayor
November 15, 1984
•
Clw"�V OF P411AMI
ft
nne-iiMENT
MEETING DATE
NOVEMBER 15, 198.4
INDEX
EVAI
DOCUMENT IDENTIFICATION I COAET1eNON AND Co EI O.
RATIFY/CONFIRM THE MOTION ADOPTED NOV. 8,
84-1299
1984 TO ALLOCATE $35,000 TO THE ALLAPTTAH
MERCHANTS ASSOCIATION (DEC. 1, 1984 - JUNE
30, 1985). AUTHORIZE CITY MANAGER/CITY ATTORNEY
TO ENTER INTO AN AGREEMENT WITH THE AFORE-
MENTIONED AGENCY.
PROVIDE INKIND SERVICES/FEE WAIVERS IN CONNEC-
84-1300
TION WITH THE MAGIC ILE CULTURAL INDUSTRIAL
FAIR (DEC. 8 - 9, 1984) AT PEACOCK PARK.
EXPRESS DEEPEST SYMPATHY/SINCEREST CONDOLENCES
84-1301
OF CITY OF MIAMI/ITS CITIZENS TO THE FAMILY/
FRIENDS OF DONAL STEWART, UPON HIS DEATH.
- OPPOSE ISSUANCE OF INDUSTRIAL DEV. BONDS BY
84-1303
METROPOLITAN DADE COUNTY TO RELOCATE ANY STABLI-
SHED MIAMI BUSINESS FROM CITY OF MIAMI TO
UNINCORPORATED DADE COUNTY, ETC.
PERMIT SALE OF ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES BY LIQUOR
84-1305 -
_' PACKAGE STORE ON ALL SUNDAYS (DEC. 1984) DURING
THE HOURS 10:00 A.M. THROUGH 10:00 P.M.
AUTHORIZE PERMIT TO SELL BEER FOR THE CERAMIC
84-1308
LEAGUE OF MIAMI IN CONNECTION WITH THE "35TH
ANNIVERSARY FAIR (KENNETH MYERS PARK. DEC.
1 AND 2, 1984.)
ALLOCATE FROM S.P.A.C.F. AN AMOUNT NO TO EXCEED
84-1309
$50.000 PLUS $15,000 TO UNDERWRITE "THE 15TH
ANNUAL BUDWEISER HYDROPLANE REGATTA, ETC.
APPROVE IN PRINCIPLE APPLICATION OF NEW CHRIS-
84-1312
TIAN HOSPITAL INC. FOR SUBMISSION BY CITY
-
OF MIAMI TO U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING & URBAN
DEVELOPMENT (150 - BED ACUTE -CARE GENERAL
HOSPITAL).
ALLOCATE AN AMOUNT UP -TO $10,000 FROM S.P.A.C.F.
84-1314
TO BE PAID TO WATERHOUSE FOR PROFESSIONAL
SERVICES IN CONNECTION WITH THE FUNDING OF
THE CHRISTIAN HOSPITAL, ETC.
— CONTINUE PUBLIC HEARING PERTAINING TO MAJOR
84-1315
USE SPECIAL PERMIT/ZONING RECLASSIFICATION
FOR TERREMARK CENTRE PROJECT (AVIATION AVE./
TIGERTAIL AVE./SOUTH BAYSHORE DRIVE FROM 3:30
P.M. OCT. 25, 1984 TO 3:30 P.M. JAN. 24, 1985,
ETC.
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CONTINUED
DOCUMENT IDENTIFICATION
ISSUE MAJOR USE SPECIAL PERMIT (EXHIBIT "A")
84-1316
AND APPROVE, WITH CONDITIONS, THE BRICKELL
STATION TOWERS INC. (32-90 S.W. 8TH. ST./
801-899 S.W. 1ST. AVE./61-89 S.W. 9TH ST.).
APPROVE IN PRINCIPLE THE APPLICATION OF CON-
84-1318
GRESS BUILDING PARTNERS FOR SUBMISSION BY
CITY OF MIAMI TO U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING
& URBAN DEVELOPMENT, ETC.
APPROVE IN PRINCIPLE THE APPLICATION OF LITTLE
84-1319
HAVANA PROFESSIONAL OFFICE BUILDING PARTNERSHIP
FOR SUBMISSION BY A CITY OF MIAMI TO THE U.S.
DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING & URBAN DEVELOPMENT
FOR CONSTRUCTION OF A SIX -STORY OFFICE AND
COMMERCIAL BUILDING, ETC.
ALLOCATE $88,537 FY' 84 - 85 FEDERAL REVENUE
84-1322
SHARING FUNDS APPROPIATED BY ORD. NO. 9901
TO PREVIOUSLY APPROVED SOCIAL SERVICE AGENCIES
(FROM DEC. 1, 1984 THROUGH DEC. 31, 1984) ETC.
RATIFY/APPROVE ACTIONS OF CITY MANAGER TO
84-1323
EXTEND FOR THE SUBMISSION OF REQUEST OF THE
PROPOSALS S.E. OVERTOWN/PARK WEST DEV. PROD.
PHASE I (OCT. 31, 1984 - DEC. 14, 1984),
ETC.
AUTHORIZE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE AN AGREEMENT
84-1325
WITH MIAMI ,DADE COMMUNITY COLLEGE, FOR PROFES-
SIONAL SERVICE OF AN ASSESSMENT CENTER TO
STABLISH POLICE LIEUTENANT PROMOTIONAL PROCE-
DURES ($29,400.00), ETC.
AUTHORIZE CITY MANAGER FOR THE PURPOSE OF
84-1326
BORROWING $12.4 MILLION TO BE SECURED BY
NOTES ISSUED BY THE CITY (TO INITIATE CONS-
TRUCTION OF STORM DRAIN PROJECTS AND POLICE
FACILITIES, ETC.
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