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HomeMy WebLinkAboutSEOPW OMNI CRA 2005-04-25 MinutesCity of Miami City Hall 3500 Pan American Drive Miami, FL 33133 www.ci.miami.fl.us Verbatim Minutes Monday, April 25, 2005 5:00 PM MEETING LOCATION: TECHNOLOGY CENTER OF THE AMERICAS CONFERENCE CENTER 40 Northeast 9th Street SEOPW and OMNI Community Redevelopment Agencies Johnny L. Winton, Chairman Jeffery L. Allen, Vice Chairman Angel Gonzalez, Board Member Joe Sanchez, Board Member Tomas Regalado, Board Member CRA OFFICE ADDRESS: 49 NW 5th ST, SUITE 100, Miami, FL 33128 Phone: (305) 679-6800, Fax: (305) 679-6835 SEOPW and OMNI Community Redevelopment Agencies Verbatim Minutes April 25, 2005 Present: Board Member Gonzalez, Board Member Regalado and Vice Chairman Allen Absent: Board Member Sanchez and Chairman Winton On the 25th day of April, 2005, the Board of Directors of the Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) for the Southeast Overtown/Park West and Omni Districts of the City of Miami met at the Technology Center of the Americas Conference Room, 40 Northeast 9 Street, Miami, Florida. The meeting was called to order at 5:14 p.m. by Vice Chairman Jeffery Allen and was adjourned at 5: 42 p.m. ALSO PRESENT: Frank Rollason, Executive Director, CRA, City of Miami James Villacorta, Assistant General Counsel, CRA William Bloom, Special Counsel, CRA Priscilla A. Thompson, Clerk of the Board Sylvia Scheider, Assistant City Clerk FINANCIALS 1 05-00289 CRA REPORT FINANCIAL SUMMARY THROUGH MONTH ENDING MARCH 31, 2005 Financial Summary.pdf MOTION A motion was made by Board Member Gonzalez, seconded by Board Member Regalado, and was passed unanimously, with Board Member Sanchez and Chairman Winton absent, to accept the Financial Summary Report through month ending March 31, 2005. Vice Chairman Allen: OK, good afternoon. At this point, as Chairman of the CRA (Community Redevelopment Agency), I will call to meeting the April 25 meeting of the combined Southeast Overtown Park West and Omni Community Redevelopment Agencies, and with that I'd like to call up the first item, which I do believe is a financial summary report from the auditor, if you will, sir. State your name for the record, please. Miguel Valentin: Yes. Good afternoon. My name is Miguel Valentin, CRA Financial Officer. Vice Chairman Allen: Mr. Martin. Priscilla A. Thompson (City Clerk): Valentin. Mr. Valentin: Valentin. Vice Chairman Allen: Valentin, I'm sorry. Mr. Valentin: Basically, on page one, you can see the statement of financial positions for the month of March 2005. Vice Chairman Allen: Correct. Mr. Valentin: And basically, I wanted to walk you through this statement. Vice Chairman Allen: Sure. Mr. Valentin: As you can see, on the first item that I name "Cash -Unrestricted, " meaning that City of Miami Page 2 Printed on 5/11/2005 SEOPW and OMNI Community Redevelopment Agencies Verbatim Minutes April 25, 2005 those monies, they haven't been encumbered. We have the amount of 175,000 under Southeast Overtown, and under Omni, we have $2.2 million that we haven't encumbered as of March 2005. Vice Chairman Allen: Correct. Mr. Valentin: Thereafter, there is another item called "Cash -Reserve for Capital Project," which we broke down into two items: encumbrances approved by Board of Directors through resolutions, and the other item is encumbrances not yet approved by Board of Directors through resolutions. The third item you see, the "Cash -Reserve for Administration Expenses," this is the (UNINTELLIGIBLE) revenue portion that we're going to use, that we will be transferring into our general operating fund some time throughout the fiscal year. Vice Chairman Allen: OK. Mr. Valentin: The third item or the fourth item -- Chairman Allen: Fourth. Mr. Valentin: -- is the cash related to our sinking fund for long-term debts. Also, you can see that we don't have any outstanding accounts payable, and basically, this is my report, and also, there is no reportable condition -- Vice Chairman Allen: Right. Mr. Valentin: -- that you should be aware of Vice Chairman Allen: So there's no reportable condition. Let me just ask, if I may, Mr. Valentin, I note here in your footnote you have a -- with respect to Southeast Overtown/ Park West -- Mr. Valentin: Yes, sir. Vice Chairman Allen: -- this column does not include an encumbrance in the amount of 2.5 for the CRA new building acquisition recorded under another fund Does that segue back up to the collateral bond that was issued in 1990, under the cash seeking fund for long-term debts? Mr. Valentin: Well -- Vice Chairman Allen: Does that relate to that by any chance? Because -- is this 2.5 from a previous issue or where's that money being -- coming from? Mr. Valentin: Well, this is related to our bond 1990 series. Vice Chairman Allen: OK. Mr. Valentin: And basically, those are monies that they are being held by CIP (Capital Improvement Project) Department for our use. Specifically, for our building acquisition. Vice Chairman Allen: Right, so it's clearly only delineated for building acquisition. Mr. Valentin: Yes, for our new CRA offices. Vice Chairman Allen: OK. Frank Rollason (Executive Director, Community Redevelopment Agency): Mr. Chairman, that is City of Miami Page 3 Printed on 5/11/2005 SEOPW and OMNI Community Redevelopment Agencies Verbatim Minutes April 25, 2005 -- that is part of the bond that we acquired the MRC (Miami Riverside Center) building with, that was part of that. Vice Chairman Allen: I see. Mr. Rollason: And part of that at that time, Commissioner Teele requested that in that bond indebtedness there be a piece in there for future office space for a C -- for the CRA. Vice Chairman Allen: Right, so has that 2.5 been fully exhausted, or is it -- ? Mr. Rollason: It hasn't been used. Mr. Valentin: No. Mr. Rollason: It's sitting in -- Vice Chairman Allen: It's just sitting there. Mr. Rollason: -- in trust. That's correct. Vice Chairman Allen: Right. Mr. Valentin: Yes, sir. Vice Chairman Allen: But it can only be used for building acquisition? Mr. Valentin: Exactly. Mr. Rollason: That's correct. Vice Chairman Allen: OK, all right. Terrific. OK. Let me turn to my fellow Commissioners. Any questions or con -- Board Member Regalado: Mr. Chairman. Vice Chairman Allen: Yes, sir. Board Member Regalado: One question. Grand Central, can you explain that 1.7 million due in 208 [sic], but every year it's $350,000, right? Mr. Valentin: Basically what we are doing is, we are allocating 350,000 every year. In the event that we -- that CRA needs to pay for that, we have the monies already accumulated for these purposes, but this -- I think this is a pending issue. Mr. Rollason: Right, there's -- there's a discussion over whether it is an obligation of the City or that of the CRA; so not to be in a position to hit at that point -- Vice Chairman Allen: A balloon payment, if you will. Mr. Rollason: -- and have a balloon payment -- Vice Chairman Allen: Yeah. Mr. Rollason: -- we've been setting the three -fifty aside. City of Miami Page 4 Printed on 5/11/2005 SEOPW and OMNI Community Redevelopment Agencies Verbatim Minutes April 25, 2005 Vice Chairman Allen: Good. Mr. Rollason: That -- it comes -- that debt comes due in two ways: one is in 2008, or if we issue bonds and refinance existing bonds, then it becomes due immediately and has to be paid off with the re -issuance. Board Member Regalado: But you don't know if you have to pay it yet? Mr. Rollason: No, we don't know if it's us or if it's the City. We have a feeling who it is, but -- Vice Chairman Allen: I see. Mr. Rollason: -- the other side has a feeling who it is, too. Board Member Regalado: Well, you know about the law of probabilities, you know? Mr. Rollason: Yeah, I understand. Board Member Regalado: So might as well write a check already. Mr. Rollason: Right, so I'm setting the money aside so we have it if that's the eventuality. Vice Chairman Allen: OK, and Mr. Valentin, as you indicated earlier, there are no reportable conditions that we need to be aware of at this juncture? Mr. Valentin: No, sir. Vice Chairman Allen: So having said that, I'd like to -- Does Commissioner Gonzalez, do you want to weigh in by any chance? Board Member Gonzalez: No, no questions. Vice Chairman Allen: OK, is -- well, someone wishes to move the item? Board Member Gonzalez: I'll move it. Board Member Regalado: Second. Vice Chairman Allen: OK, having said that, all in favor of the item, sign by saying `yes " or aye. The Board Members (Collectively): Aye. Vice Chairman Allen: All opposed? The ayes have it. Thank you, sir, Mr. Valentin. CONSULTANT REPORTS 2 05-00319 CRA REPORT ITEM WITHDRAWN BY EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Note To File.pdf WITHDRAWN Vice Chairman Allen: And now I move, I believe it was Item 2 apparently has been withdrawn by the Executive Director. City of Miami Page 5 Printed on 5/11/2005 SEOPW and OMNI Community Redevelopment Agencies Verbatim Minutes April 25, 2005 RESOLUTIONS 3 05-00286 CRA RESOLUTION A RESOLUTION OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE OMNI REDEVELOPMENT DISTRICT COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY AUTHORIZING A GRANT, IN THE AMOUNT OF $12,400, TO DADE HERITAGE TRUST, INC. FOR USE BY ITS MIAMI CITY CEMETERY COMMITTEE TO INSTALL SIGNAGE, PROVIDE A PLAQUE ACKNOWLEDGING THE CEMETERY'S HISTORIC DESIGNATIONS, CLEAN AND REPAIR HEADSTONES, AND PROVIDE ADDITIONAL LANDSCAPING, ALL SUBJECT TO THE WORK RECEIVING A CERTIFICATE OF APPROPRIATENESS FROM THE CITY OF MIAMI'S HISTORIC AND ENVIRONMENTAL PRESERVATION BOARD; FURTHER AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, AT HIS DISCRETION, TO DISBURSE THE GRANT FUNDS DIRECTLY TO SUPPLIERS AND VENDORS UPON RECEIPT OF INVOICES AND SATISFACTORY SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION; AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR TO EXECUTE ALL NECESSARY DOCUMENTS FOR SAID PURPOSE; ALLOCATING FUNDS FROM OMNI TIF FUND, "OTHER GRANTS AND AIDS," ACCOUNT CODE NO. 686001.590320.6.940. Cover Memo .pdf Financial I nfo.pdf Backup Documentation.pdf Legislation.pdf Motion by Board Member Gonzalez, seconded by Board Member Regalado, that this matter be ADOPTED PASSED by the following vote. Votes: Ayes: 3 - Board Member Gonzalez, Board Member Regalado and Vice Chairman Allen Absent: 2 - Board Member Sanchez and Chairman Winton CRA-R-05-0019 Vice Chairman Allen: -- That, therefore, places us with Item Number 3, and -- Board Member Gonzalez: I'll move Item Number 3. Board Member Regalado: Second. Vice Chairman Allen: Item Number 3, this doesn't require any public hearing or any discussion, at this point. This is a -- if you will, I'll like to turn to the Executive Director. Can you just put on the record, please, with the -- resolution? Frank Rollason (Executive Director, Community Redevelopment Agency): Yes, sir. This is a grant to the Dade Heritage Trust, specifically to go to the Miami City Cemetery committee, which is a part of the -- it's a subset of the Dade Heritage Trust, and it is for them to do some remedial work within the cemetery; fixing of head stones, some landscaping, bougainvilleas, and so forth; a plaque by the Sexton's office, and a couple of other items that they have been working with the Parks Department to make happen. Vice Chairman Allen: Right, and again, that line item has -- is in the amount of 12,400, correct? Mr. Rollason: That is correct. City of Miami Page 6 Printed on 5/11/2005 SEOPW and OMNI Community Redevelopment Agencies Verbatim Minutes April 25, 2005 Vice Chairman Allen: OK, great. OK, the item has been moved. All in favor, signify by saying "yes" or "aye." The Board Members (Collectively): Aye. Vice Chairman Allen: Any opposition? Having heard no opposition, the item passes by virtue of a favorable motion. 4 05-00313 CRA RESOLUTION A RESOLUTION OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE OMNI REDEVELOPMENT DISTRICT COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY AUTHORIZING FUNDS, IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $19,000, FOR A TRAFFIC ACCESS STUDY, TO BE PERFORMED THROUGH THE CITY OF MIAMI'S DEPARTMENT OF CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS, TO ANALYZE TRAFFIC PATTERNS AFFECTING THE HOTELS ALONG NORTH BAYSHORE DRIVE BETWEEN NORTHEAST 15TH STREET AND NORTHEAST 17TH TERRACE, MIAMI, FLORIDA, AND TO IDENTIFY POSSIBLE SOLUTIONS, INCLUDING ENHANCED SIGNAGE AT THE INTERSECTION OF BISCAYNE BOULEVARD AND 1-395; AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR TO EXECUTE ALL NECESSARY DOCUMENTS FOR SAID PURPOSE; ALLOCATING FUNDS FROM OMNI TIF FUND, "PROFESSIONAL SERVICES - OTHER," ACCOUNT CODE NO. 686001.590320.6.270. Cover Memo.pdf Financial Info.pdf Back Up Documentation.pdf Legislation.pdf Motion by Board Member Regalado, seconded by Board Member Gonzalez, that this matter be ADOPTED PASSED by the following vote. Votes: Ayes: 3 - Board Member Gonzalez, Board Member Regalado and Vice Chairman Allen Absent: 2 - Board Member Sanchez and Chairman Winton CRA-R-05-0020 Direction to the Executive Director of the CRA by Board Member Regalado to study having a free trolley service from the Omni area hotels to Bayside and Downtown Miami, and afree water taxi from the Omni area hotels to Bayside and Dinner Key. Vice Chairman Allen: -- That now brings us to item number -- well, actually item -- Frank Rollason (Executive Director, Community Redevelopment Agency): Four. Vice Chairman Allen: -- considered to be Item Number 4 -- Mr. Rollason: Four. Vice Chairman Allen: -- for purposes of this meeting, and that is, if you will, I will now turn to Executive Director, Mr. Frank Rollason, if you want -- if you could put this on the record, please. City of Miami Page 7 Printed on 5,11/2005 SEOPW and OMNI Community Redevelopment Agencies Verbatim Minutes April 25, 2005 Mr. Rollason: Yes, sir. This is a study of the traffic access situation that exists on Bayshore Drive, between 15th Street and 17th Terrace, and it's been requested by the hotels along that area, with the increased problem they're having of getting traffic in and out of their facilities, with the construction that's taken place up on Bayshore Drive, in front of Margaret Pace Park, we're talking like the 1800 Club building that's going up, Quantum and so forth, and with Cite, and what's also happened is that in the construction of Cite, we opened up Bayshore Drive all the way through; we made a swap on the property there, and now Bayshore Drive is open, so what's happening is properties that are north of Margaret Pace Park now are able to drive through without going back out onto the boulevard, which is good; but now the traffic has increased in front of the hotels, so when people are leaving the hotels, especially the Grand, the residents in there are looking to make a left-hand turn onto Bayshore, they're having problems, so we got with the City, the CIP (Capital Improvement Project) Department, Transportation area, and they have selected a vendor off of the list to do the traffic study, and we -- I'm asking for us to fund that in an amount not to exceed 19,000; the actual bid is under 16,000, but we put in a contingency and we also have to pay the City a four percent administrative fee for them monitoring the project, and we've also added in this package some signage that's going to be looked at coming off of 836, where it dumps down to the boulevard, to try to direct the people towards the Omni hotels or to the downtown hotels, 'cause people get lost coming off there. Vice Chairman Allen: Right, and and Mr. -- Did you want to weigh in, Jim? Mr. Executive Director, you just mentioned the fact that there's a contingency fee set aside. I guess it's -- Mr. Rollason: Yes, sir. Vice Chairman Allen: -- fifteen percent, and that's largely for what purpose? For -- ? Mr. Rollason: Only if something comes up there we're not aware of. Vice Chairman Allen: Right. Mr. Rollason: They've given us a flat rate to do the project, the four percent is in there, but history tells me that things happen. There's something they hadn't figured on doing, and now they need to study this, or look at that, and I wanted to have the leeway in there to be able to go ahead without coming back to the Board up to that amount of money. Vice Chairman Allen: OK. I turn to the Commissioners; any comments, questions? Board Member Regalado: Mr. Chairman, what would they be studying? Mr. Rollason: I think Jose is here from CIP. I've got the actual breakdown. Board Member Regalado: I mean, I just -- Mr. Rollason: Well, they -- they're going to -- they're looking at the traffic counts at the major intersections along Bayshore, between 15th and 17th, and -- during different peak times. They're also looking at off-peak times when the hotels are saying that some of the ins and outs of the people that live there are a problem. They're going to be looking at the bus issues running along there; we've got some issues dealing with Metro -Dade bus transit is now using it as a regular loop coming through there, going to that bus terminal, or you know, turnaround point they have there on the boulevard and 15th, and they're going to be -- I mean, that's basically it; they're looking at the traffic that's coming and going and flowing in both directions and going to give us some alternative ways, solutions to try to solve the problem that -- Chairman Allen: I see. City of Miami Page 8 Printed on 5/11/2005 SEOPW and OMNI Community Redevelopment Agencies Verbatim Minutes April 25, 2005 Mr. Rollason: -- then we'll then address at that time. Board Member Regalado: Like the water? Mr. Rollason: Yeah, like the water. Board Member Regalado: Listen -- Mr. Rollason: No, no, the water, that's another issue. Board Member Regalado: No, but my question was because the issue of the Women's Club has not been resolved yet. Mr. Rollason: Yeah, that is correct. Board Member Regalado: So if they do a study and they, you know, do not incorporate the possibility of another huge, big condo -- Mr. Rollason: Right. Board Member Regalado: -- that would make the study not -- Mr. Rollason: Well, let me say this: each one of the developers that come is required to do their own traffic study. What's happened is, is that there has not been a cumulative study of what the impact that these developments have been in the area that's already developed, so the Omni garage, we're dumping people out and the Marriot and the Grand with people coming out, they are being impacted by what's coming down the street, so what they've asked is, is there some way that somebody can look at trying to address our problem, and that's what this study addresses, and you're right, if something -- if another unit goes up there where the Women's Club is, that's going to compound another traffic study that's going to have to be done, but you're correct. Board Member Regalado: And how about the -- how about the Herald parking? Mr. Rollason: Well, the Herald parking is on the south side of 15th. Board Member Regalado: It is, but it's the -- Mr. Rollason: Well, actually -- Board Member Regalado: -- but it is. Mr. Rollason: -- it's on -- on the other side of -- you know. Board Member Regalado: It is -- Mr. Rollason: Yeah -- Board Member Regalado: -- right there. Mr. Rollason: No, no, it's right there, but I -- I don't know the traffic leaves the Herald and comes that way. I think what happens, what's happening now -- Board Member Regalado: No, no, but I'm talking about the Herald parking being sold -- Mr. Rollason: Oh, yeah, no, you're right. City of Miami Page 9 Printed on 5/11/2005 SEOPW and OMNI Community Redevelopment Agencies Verbatim Minutes April 25, 2005 Board Member Regalado: -- for -- Mr. Rollason: You're, you're -- you're right, but there will be a traffic with that, right? I mean, any development is going -- Board Member Regalado: Yeah, but they -- Mr. Rollason: -- to have to bring their own -- Board Member Regalado: -- it's being paid by the developer. Mr. Rollason: Yeah, well -- Board Member Regalado: It'd be fine, you know, if they're going to tell you (UNINTELLIGIBLE) -- Mr. Rollason: Well, that's where City staff is to be looking at it and saying, "Is this reasonable with our -- Vice Chairman Allen: Right. Mr. Rollason: -- consultants that we have on the -- that the City has on board to say, "Is this, what they're telling us, right or are we going to have a mess on our hands?" Vice Chairman Allen: Right. If you could just put your name on the record. I assume that this air study independent of the developer study, so if you could put your name on the record. Jose Gonzalez: Correct. Jose Gonzalez, with the City of Miami Transportation Department. The focus of the study is an access management study; it's going to focus on the hotels, as Frank indicated, the hotels in the Omni area and the ingress and egress from and to those hotels. We did not include -- in the scope of the study, we did not include an analysis or a review of the developer's traffic impact analysis. Vice Chairman Allen: Right. Mr. Gonzalez: That is not included as part of the -- that would require slightly more of a comprehensive study. Vice Chairman Allen: So, so Commissioner Regalado begs an -- a pretty interesting question, so this is only limited to the impact to the hotels. Mr. Gonzalez: Correct. Vice Chairman Allen: That's the entire objective. Mr. Gonzalez: Correct. Vice Chairman Allen: So -- Mr. Rollason: That's correct. Vice Chairman Allen: That -- Mr. Rollason: But what -- City of Miami Page 10 Printed on 5/11/2005 SEOPW and OMNI Community Redevelopment Agencies Verbatim Minutes April 25, 2005 Vice Chairman Allen: The way I see it, really, it's not going to make -- have -- Board Member Regalado: They're going to have fun doing -- counting the -- but it doesn't -- Vice Chairman Allen: It doesn't solve anything. Board Member Regalado: -- it doesn't solve anything -- Vice Chairman Allen: Anything, right. Board Member Regalado: -- nor it will tell you anything because -- Vice Chairman Allen: Right. Board Member Regalado: -- it's all about more people, more cars, you know what I mean? Mr. Rollason: But if you -- if you go there -- I mean, I've been there and watched this problem that the people have, for instance, getting out of the Grand, and there are people that feel different ways about this, but there's a particular island right in front of the Grand that does not allow you to make a left-hand turn. What happens is that traffic then comes and makes a right, goes up a block or up to the middle of a block, makes a U-turn and tries to come back the other way. As they go to make that U-turn, they start to impact the traffic coming from 17th Terrace and the traffic coming out of the Wyndham or the Omni parking across the street, and so what we're hoping some of this will tell us is what are some common sense approaches as this point that we can look at that might help alleviate the problems that the hotels are facing at the moment, but you're exactly correct, when you talk about that long sweep that runs all the way up Bayshore Drive, this is like at the tail end to where it's all bottled -necking -- Vice Chairman Allen: It is. Mr. Rollason: --right there, I mean, that -- Vice Chairman Allen: That's correct. Mr. Rollason: -- that traffic signal -- Vice Chairman Allen: Signal. Mr. Rollason: -- needs to be looked at. Vice Chairman: Right. Mr. Rollason: You may have to look at eventually putting in another turn lane going to Venetian because that's also happening. When people are going to Venetian now, and used to go out to the boulevard and come back down to 15th, they're now able to go the full length to Bayshore Drive and come down in front of the hotels and make that left-hand turn right there on 15th to go over Venetian Causeway, so, you know, we're hoping that -- Vice Chairman Allen: So (UNINTELLIGIBLE) -- Mr. Rollason: -- we can come up with some solutions, short-term solutions that may be able to help the hotels. Vice Chairman Allen: Right, and I guess also ultimately -- potentially, to provide some level of City of Miami Page 11 Printed on 5/11/2005 SEOPW and OMNI Community Redevelopment Agencies Verbatim Minutes April 25, 2005 signage in the event that someone can find the Omni because of all the construction that's taken place around there, correct? Mr. Gonzalez: That's from the 1-395. Vice Chairman Allen: So, I would assume, you guys are incorporating, if you will, any developments that are coming down the pipeline in and around the area. Like, for example, Commissioner Regalado pointed to the issue of the parking lot -- the Herald, just south of the Herald. Is that contemplated in your study? Mr. Gonzalez: The Herald is on -- Vice Chairman Allen: You know, contemplating -- yeah, you -- Mr. Gonzalez: That's south of 15th? Vice Chairman Allen: Right, it's -- Mr. Rollason: Yeah, it's south -- it is not in this study. Vice Chairman Allen: It's not in the study, right. Mr. Rollason: It is not in this study. Vice Chairman Allen: So you wouldn't even consider that, any development going there, as part of your analysis, your study? Mr. Gonzalez: Not at this time. Vice Chairman Allen: Based on -- Mr. Gonzalez: Not as part of this study, no. Vice Chairman Allen: Yeah, and it's -- Board Member Regalado: Look, if you wanted -- Frank, I mean, you know, I'm just saying, I'm just saying. Remember when -- about the signage and what the Chairman is saying. Remember when FDOT (Florida Department of Transportation) does works in Flagler or Southwest 8th Street, they install signage, in order for the people to know where the -- Mr. Gonzalez: Right. Board Member Regalado: -- different stores -- Mr. Rollason: Businesses are. Board Member Regalado: -- and businesses are. This is the same scenario that a lot of people are facing because of all the construction in the Omni area. They -- you know, they cannot go here and there, so, I mean, it should be up to the developers of the City or whatever to just guide the people around and get like a waiver from Miami -Dade County so we can install the signage, because this signage are temporary, you know. Mr. Rollason: Well, there's two types of signage that we're talking about: one -- Board Member Regalado: No, I understand what you're saying, but what he's saying is to tell City of Miami Page 12 Printed on 5/11/2005 SEOPW and OMNI Community Redevelopment Agencies Verbatim Minutes April 25, 2005 the people where -- Mr. Rollason: Right. Board Member Regalado: -- to go. Mr. Rollason: The problem coming off of 395 has been a problem for years. The people come down off of 395, and if they get in the lefi lane, they make that quick U and they're back up on the expressway and don't even realize what's happened to them, and so we're hoping that we can put some signage directly across in front of the boulevard there that will direct the people lefi or right, downtown hotels or the Omni area hotels, or something of that sort in the Bicentennial park area, and this study is going to look at that also. Vice Chairman Allen: Right. Having said that, Mr. Executive Director, has anyone by any chance approached the Omni hotels about any contributions, so that maybe we can expand this? Now, in listening to Commissioner Regalado's concerns -- If you will, you can -- July Grimes: Hello. My name is July Grimes. I'm with the Double Tree Grand Hotel. Vice Chairman Allen: Yes. Ms. Grimes: And you know, just to explain a bit further what Frank is trying to describe as a problem coming out of the Grand, especially -- it's not just the hotel guests; it's the residents themselves that have a lot of difficulty getting in and out the building at this point. It's never really been set up quite correctly, and now it's just -- the problem has been aggravated by the fact that there's additional traffic on North Bayshore, so really, we don need somebody to look at how we can alleviate the U-turns, and the different converging exits that are almost coming out - - almost hitting each other as they come out of the Omni parking lot and the Grand, and it's getting to be a dangerous situation, so that's one issue with respect to the traffic study. With respect to the signage issue coming off the ramp, this has been my pet peeve, not just the signage, but the ramp itself for many years, because this is the gateway into the City of Miami for many, many tourists coming into the area. Many visitors come down that ramp. The ones that are not going off to the beach, that's where they exit. One of our biggest problems we have with guests is that they end in that U-turn situation, where they don't get all the way up to the boulevard. There's a U-turn -- for I don't know what reason -- to circle back onto the freeway and a lot of them take it, and they end up circling around that undesirable area underneath the ramp, which is where we have a lot of homeless trash, and just an ugly scenario going on there. It's intimidating. It's certainly not a nice welcome into the City of Miami, so you know, it's not much in the way of signage that's required. Anything that can get them to the boulevard, I'll be happy, because our instructions are all, you know, turn left on Biscayne Boulevard, but some of them just don't even get up there, so it -- I don't think it's going to take much, but it's -- you know, we don't even mind contributing, but really, I think it's a complicated issue because it seems to involve the County, the City, Off -Street Parking, I don't know -- so many players involved, I swear to God, I'm tired of trying to deal with the issue. Through the City, over the past several years, we haven't gotten anywhere, so if it takes a study to get it done, then I'm all for it. Board Member Regalado: Mr. Chairman. Vice Chairman Allen: Yes, Commissioner Regalado. Board Member Regalado: Just -- if I may. Vice Chairman Allen: And of course, this is now open to the public discussion. Yes, sir. Board Member Regalado: This then is for an immediate solution, so I am all for it, but you City of Miami Page 13 Printed on 5/11/2005 SEOPW and OMNI Community Redevelopment Agencies Verbatim Minutes April 25, 2005 know, I don't think that you have to just come up with some funds to participate in this. This is the government's responsibility. We created the mess. We in government created the mess, so we still have not done anything to resolve it, so it should be the government's responsibility. We are approving more and more projects next to you, and that would complicate forever, not -- Ms. Grimes: We're absolutely thrilled about all the development in the area. Board Member Regalado: But you know, it's -- I mean, progress is painful -- Ms. Grimes: That's right. Board Member Regalado: -- at the same time. I think that the CRA -- and this is just an idea -- should think about a trolley service to service the hotels, both hotels in the Omni, plus all the condos; trolley service that would take people to Bayside, to downtown Miami. That would alleviate some of the cars. I mean, regardless of what you say of the Bay walk, and people walking people, there's no culture in walking here in Miami. People would take a car just to go to downtown from -- you know, instead of walking three or four -- Ms. Grimes: This is not a pedestrian friendly area at this moment. there. Board Member Regalado: It is not, it is not, but I'm talking -- Ms. Grimes: No. Board Member Regalado: -- future with the Bay walk and all that, but what I'm saying is that the CRA should look into the possibility of operating a trolley. I mean, Coral Gables has this unique trolley system on Ponce de Leon. They -- they're funded by the State. It's free. People take it all the way. The only -- the only thing that we need to do to get a trolley working on Bayshore is just to have Miami -Dade Transit Authority not to use Bayshore for their routes -- Mr. Rollason: Buses. Board Member Regalado: -- and buses because the only caveat is that those trolleys cannot compete with the paying buses of Miami -Dade County, but I really think, Julie, that, you know, you have a lot of cloud in this area, and you should think about a -- sort of a trolley to transport, free, people to Bayside. I mean, everybody -- it's a win -win situation, you know, Bayside, Downtown Miami, I mean, even to look at the new condos in construction, so I think, you know, that if that takes away a hundred cars a week, on a day, it takes away a hundred cars on a week, in a day. Ms. Grimes: Well, certainly, I -- it's an idea that's a great possible solution. I know of -- the taxi drivers probably wouldn't be so happy because we have a lot of tourists -- guests that, you know, take a cab just to get to Bayside -- Board Member Regalado: And you know what -- Ms. Grimes: -- but that would certainly reduce part of the problem. Board Member Regalado: -- and you know what, a water taxi, a free water taxi off the Marriot - Ms. Grimes: Well, there's the hotels -- you know, we've been trying to get that put back on the drawing table for a long time -- Board Member Regalado: To Bayside -- City of Miami Page 14 Printed on 5/11/2005 SEOPW and OMNI Community Redevelopment Agencies Verbatim Minutes April 25, 2005 Ms. Grimes: -- now. Board Member Regalado: -- to even Dinner Key, because it shows the City of Miami as it could never be shown from the -- Ms. Grimes: That's right. No, I agree totally, and I know all the hoteliers feel that the water taxi should be brought back, especially ourselves, with the marina in the back, so that I would appreciate. Board Member Regalado: Hey, if we keep building condos, the only way is the sea. Ms. Grimes: Yeap. Good solution. Vice Chairman Allen: OK, thank you. Ms. Grimes: Thank you. Vice Chairman Allen: Is there anyone else wishing to discuss this item before us, please come forward. Having seeing no one come forward, I'll bring the issue back before the Commission, the Board here, rather. Can someone move the item, please? Board Member Regalado: Oh, I'll move the item. Board Member Gonzalez: Second. Vice Chairman Allen: OK, you did move it, right, OK. All those in favor, signs by saying "aye or yea." The Board Members (Collectively): Aye. Vice Chairman Allen: All those opposed, sign by saying "nay or no." Having heard no opposition, the motion passes. This authorization is approved, and that now brings us to -- City of Miami Page 15 Printed on 5/11/2005 SEOPW and OMNI Community Redevelopment Agencies Verbatim Minutes April 25, 2005 REPORTS 5 05-00290 NON AGENDA ITEM NA.1 05-00405 SEOPW and OMNI Community Redevelopment Agencies CRA REPORT SUBMISSION OF PRINTED STATUS REPORT ON PENDING LEGAL MATTERS (NO BOARD ACTION REQUIRED). Status Report -Pending Legal Matters.pdf DISCUSSED Vice Chairman Allen: -- and correct me if I'm wrong, Mr. Executive Director, it says here Item 5, pending legal matters. Frank Rollason (Executive Director, Cornrnunity Redeveloprnent Agency). Right. That is the report that is sent to you. There's no action required on that. It was included in the agenda, but it -- you've asked that it be on the agenda each time. CRA DISCUSSION A motion was made by Board Member Gonzalez, seconded by Board Member Regalado, and was passed unanimously, with Board Member Sanchez and Chairman Winton absent, to reschedule the CRA meeting of May 30, 2005 to take place on May 23 or May 26, 2005. MOTION A motion was made by Board Member Gonzalez, seconded by Board Member Regalado, and was passed unanimously, with Board Member Sanchez and Chairman Winton absent, give Chairman Winton the option of determining whether the May 2005 CRA meeting will be held on the 23rd or the 26th of May. Frank Rollason (Executive Director, Community Redevelopment Agency): The only other item to come before you is the -- I'm requesting a resolution or a motion -- Vice Chairman Allen: Right. Mr. Rollason: -- about changing the Board meeting for May because of Memorial Day. Vice Chairman Allen: That's correct. Because this (UNINTELLIGIBLE) -- the next scheduled CRA (Community Redevelopment Agency) meeting is for May the 30th, which will conflict -- Mr. Rollason: That's correct. Vice Chairman Allen: -- with the date in question that you mentioned, so our options are either to move it to May 23, that is, this Board meeting, and/or to move it to the general May 26 Commission meeting. Mr. Rollason: Right. The P and Z (Planning and Zoning) Commission meeting, we could have it at that time, it's not a, it's not a voluminous agenda -- Vice Chairman Allen: Agenda. OK. Mr. Rollason: -- so -- I mean, if -- but what I'm asking for tonight is that you say -- a motion that says "either/ or" so that I can get with the Chairman. I was hoping to get with the Chairman City of Miami Page 16 Printed on 5,11/2005 SEOPW and OMNI Community Redevelopment Agencies Verbatim Minutes April 25, 2005 today and he's out ill, so if you make a motion to either the 23rd or the 26th during the Commission meeting, as you know, at the will of the Chairman, I, I think that he will probably want to put it in the Commission meeting. I know he tries to do that when he can, but I'd like to leave the flexibility for him to make that choice. Vice Chairman Allen: OK. Board Member Regalado: Whatever you want, Mr. Chairman. That is -- Vice Chairman Allen: Yeah. Having said that, we'll make a motion to reschedule the upcoming -- well, I shouldn't say upcoming, but the May 30 CRA meeting, either moving it to May 23 or May 26, during the actual Commission meeting. Do I hear a second? Board Member Gonzalez: I'll move it. I'll second it. Vice Chairman Allen: OK. Board Member Regalado: Move it. Second. Vice Chairman Allen: OK. Having said that, all in favor, please signify by saying "yea" or aye. The Board Members (Collectively): Aye. Vice Chairman Allen: I'm sorry. Mr. Rollason: That's at the option of the -- Vice Chairman Allen: Before we move forward -- Mr. Rollason: -- Chairman also. We'd like to have that -- Vice Chairman Allen: Yes, it should -- OK, it should also -- the motion should sign "at the option of the Chairman," Commissioner Winton. Again, will someone move the item, please? Board Member Gonzalez: Move it. Board Member Regalado: I'll second. Vice Chairman Allen: Second? All right, having heard that, all in favor, please sign by saying "yea or aye." Board Members (Collectively): Aye. Vice Chairman Allen: All opposed, "nay" or "no." Having heard no opposition, the motion passes, and now that brings us to the close of the meeting. Board Member Gonzalez: Motion to adjourn. Vice Chairman Allen: Do we have any -- pardon me? Board Member Gonzalez: Motion to adjourn, right? Vice Chairman Allen: Motion to adjourn, that's correct. City of Miami Page 17 Printed on 5/11/2005 SEOPW and OMNI Community Redevelopment Agencies Verbatim Minutes April 25, 2005 Board Member Gonzalez: Thank you. Vice Chairman Allen: Having heard none, yes. At this point, the CRA meeting of the 25th is now adjourned. Thank you. Mr. Rollason: Thank you. City of Miami Page 18 Printed on 5/11/2005