HomeMy WebLinkAboutCC 2015-09-10 MinutesCity of Miami
City Hall
3500 Pan American Drive
Miami, FL 33133
www.miamigov.com
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Meeting Minutes
Thursday, September 10, 2015
9:00 AM
REGULAR
City Hall Commission Chambers
City Commission
Tomas Regalado, Mayor
Wifredo (Willy) Gort, Chair
Keon Hardemon, Vice Chair
Marc David Sarnoff, Commissioner District Two
Frank Carollo, Commissioner District Three
Francis Suarez, Commissioner District Four
Daniel J. Alfonso, City Manager
Victoria Mendez, City Attorney
Todd B. Hannon, City Clerk
City Commission
Meeting Minutes September 10, 2015
CONTENTS
PR - PRESENTATIONS AND PROCLAMATIONS
AM - APPROVING MINUTES
MV - MAYORAL VETOES
CA - CONSENT AGENDA
PH - PUBLIC HEARINGS
SR - SECOND READING ORDINANCES
FR - FIRST READING ORDINANCES
RE - RESOLUTIONS
BC - BOARDS AND COMMITTEES
DI - DISCUSSION ITEMS
PART B
PZ - PLANNING AND ZONING ITEM(S)
MAYOR AND COMMISSIONERS' ITEMS
M - MAYOR'S ITEMS
D1 - DISTRICT 1 ITEMS
D2 - DISTRICT 2 ITEMS
D3 - DISTRICT 3 ITEMS
D4 - DISTRICT 4 ITEMS
D5 - DISTRICT 5 ITEMS
City of Miami Page 2 Printed on 10/5/2015
City Commission
Meeting Minutes September 10, 2015
9:00 A.M. INVOCATION AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Present: Chair Gort, Commissioner Sarnoff, Commissioner Carollo, Commissioner Suarez and
Vice Chair Hardemon
On the 10th day of September 2015, the City Commission of the City of Miami, Florida, met at its
regular meeting place in City Hall, 3500 Pan American Drive, Miami, Florida, in regular
session. The Commission Meeting was called to order by Chair Gort at 9:03 a.m., recessed at
9:36 a.m., reconvened at 9: 53 a.m., recessed at 12: 12 p.m., reconvened at 2:10 p.m., recessed at
2:12 p.m., reconvened at 3: 02 p.m., recessed at S: 39 p.m., reconvened at 9:22 p.m., and
adjourned at 9: 23 p.m.
Note for the Record: Commissioner Carollo entered the Commission chamber at 9:32 a.m.,
Commissioner Sarnoff entered the Commission chamber at 9: 43 a.m., Commissioner Suarez
entered the Commission chamber at 9:53 a.m., and Commissioner Hardemon entered the
Commission chamber at 11:12 a.m.
ALSO PRESENT:
Victoria Mendez, City Attorney
Daniel J. Alfonso, City Manager
Todd B. Hannon, City Clerk
Chair Gort: (UNINTELLIGIBLE) Chairperson, Wifredo "Willy" Gort. Also, it should be here
our City Manager Alfonso, Daniel Alfonso; Victoria Mendez, our City Attorney; and Todd
Hannon, our City Clerk. At this time, I'm going to ask you to stand for a prayer, which I will do
myself. And Todd, would you do the pledge of allegiance, please.
Invocation and pledge of allegiance delivered.
PRESENTATIONS AND PROCLAMATIONS
PR.1
15-01149
PRESENTATION
Honoree Presenter Protocol Item
Capt. Manuel A. Arango Mayor and 2015 EMS Peer
Lt. Alexander Commissioners Recognition
Fernandez Award
Lt. Joselin Fernandez
Lt. Leonardo
Hernandez
FF Joseph E. Beraldi
FF Kristen M.
Gurucharri
FF Ariel Santiago
FF John G. Turner
Miami Firefighter Mayor and
Appreciation Month Commissioners
15-01149 Protocol Item.pdf
Proclamation
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City Commission
Meeting Minutes September 10, 2015
PRESENTED
1) Deputy Fire Chief Joseph Zahralban and Assistant Fire Chief Terrence Davis presented EMS
Peer Awards to Capt. Manuel A. Arango, Lt. Alexander Fernandez, Lt. Joselin Fernandez, Lt.
Leonardo Hernandez, Firefighter Joseph E. Beraldi, Firefighter Kristen M. Gurucharri,
Firefighter Ariel Santiago and Firefighter John G. Turner for their delivery of the highest level
and extraordinary EMS service to the public; furthermore acknowledging that these individuals
were selected by their peers as the cream of the crop for EMS service and identing their
willingness to lay down their lives to save others.
2) Mayor Regalado and Commissioners presented a Proclamation to the City of Miami
Firefighters, paying tribute to them for their critical contributions and faithful devotion in
serving to preserve the security of all Miamians; and for their meritorious service during the
2015 Fill the Boot'campaign, where they raised over $1.4 million in over 300 communities,
making them the Muscular Dystrophy Association's largest source of funding; and furthermore
recognizing their efforts to alleviate the devastating effect of muscular disorders; thus, declaring
this month City of Miami Firefighter Appreciation Month."
Mayor Tomas Regalado: Thank you very much, Mr. Chairman, and good morning. I would like
to ask the Manager, the Fire Chief Assistant Chief Deputy Chief.
Presentations made.
APPROVING THE MINUTES OF THE FOLLOWING MEETINGS:
Motion by Commissioner Sarnoff, seconded by Commissioner Carollo, to APPROVE
PASSED by the following vote.
Votes: Ayes: 3 - Commissioner(s) Gort, Sarnoff and Carollo
Absent: 2 - Commissioner(s) Suarez and Hardemon
MAYORAL VETOES
Chair Gort: Do we have any minutes to pass, to approve?
Todd B. Hannon (City Clerk): Yes, sir. I have for Commission consideration and approval the
regular meeting minutes from the July 9, 2015 Miami City Commission meeting.
Chair Gort: Is there -- do I have a motion?
Commissioner Sarnoff So move.
Commissioner Carollo: Second.
Chair Gort: Been moved by Commissioner Sarnoff second by Commissioner Carollo. All in
favor, state it by saying "aye."
The Commission (Collectively): Aye.
Chair Gort: Thank you.
END OF APPROVING MINUTES
NO MAYORAL VETOES
Chair Gort: By the way, Mr. Clerk, do we have any Mayor's veto?
Todd B. Hannon (City Clerk): Chair, there are no mayoral vetoes.
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City Commission
Meeting Minutes September 10, 2015
ORDER OF THE DAY
Chair Gort: Madam Attorney, would you go over the procedures.
Victoria Mendez (City Attorney): Yes, Chairman. Thank you. Good morning. Any person who
is a lobbyist must register with the City Clerk and comply with related City requirements for
lobbyists before appearing before the City Commission. A copy of the Code section about
lobbyists is available in the City Clerk's Office. The material for each item on the agenda today
is available during business hours at the City Clerk's Office and online 24 hours a day at
wwwmiamigov.com [sic]. Any person may be heard by the City Commission through the Chair
for not more than two minutes on any proposition before the City Commission unless modified by
the Chair. If the proposition is being continued or rescheduled, the opportunity to be heard may
be at such later date before the City Commission takes action on such proposition. Anyone
wishing to appeal any decision made by the City Commission for any matter considered at this
meeting may need a verbatim record of the item. A video of this meeting may be requested at the
Office of Communications or viewed online at wwwmiamigov.com [sic]. No cell phone or other
noise -making devices are permitted in Commission chambers. Please silence those devices now.
No clapping, applauding, heckling, or verbal outbursts in support or opposition to a speaker or
his or her remarks shall be permitted. Any person making offensive remarks or who becomes
unruly in Commission chambers will be barred from further attending Commission meetings and
may be subject to arrest. No signs or placards shall be allowed in the Commission chambers.
Any person with a disability requiring assistance, auxiliary aids and services for this meeting
may notilY the City Clerk. The lunch recess will begin at the conclusion of deliberation of the
agenda item being considered at noon. The meeting will end either at the conclusion of the
deliberation of the item being considered at 10 p.m., or at the conclusion of the regularly
scheduled agenda, whichever occurs first. Please note, Commissioners have generally been
briefed by the City staff and the City Attorney on items on the agenda today. At this time, the
Administration will announce what items, if any, are being either withdrawn, deferred or
substituted. Thank you.
Chair Gort: Thank you, ma'am. Mr. Manager.
Daniel 1 Alfonso (City Manager): Mr. Chairman, items that are being deferred or withdrawn
are: SR.1, which is being withdrawn; AC.2, which is also being withdrawn; and RE.1, which is
being deferred to November 19.
Chair Gort: Thank you, Mr. Manager. Ladies and gentlemen, we have a few proclamations we
have to give out today, but I would like to wait for some more of the Commissioners to get here.
As soon as they get here, we'll start.
Later...
Chair Gort: (UNINTELLIGIBLE) once again, please.
Mr. Alfonso: Yes, Mr. Chairman. The items that are being withdrawn are SR.1 andAC.2. And
item RE.1 will be deferred to November 19; and item RE.6, to the first meeting in October. RE. 1,
deferred to November 19; and RE.6, deferred to the first meeting in October. SR. 1 and AC.2,
withdrawn.
Chair Gort: SR. 1, and what's the other one?
Mr. Alfonso: AC.2.
Chair Gort: AC (Attorney -client)?
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Meeting Minutes September 10, 2015
Mr. Alfonso: Yes, AC, the legal meeting; there's two meetings. One of them was withdrawn.
Chair Gort: Okay. Any other Commissioner would like to defer or request any other item?
Commissioner Suarez: SR. 1 is withdrawn, you said?
Mr. Alfonso: Yes, sir.
Chair Gort: Any other Commissioner would like to pull any items?
Commissioner Sarnoff Make a motion as stated.
Commissioner Suarez: Second.
Chair Gort: There's a motion, there's a second. Any further discussion? Being none, all in
favor, state it by saying "aye."
The Commission (Collectively): Aye.
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City Commission
Meeting Minutes September 10, 2015
CONSENT AGENDA
CA.1 RESOLUTION
15-00881
Department of A RESOLUTION OF THE MIAMI CITY COMMISSION, WITH
Fire -Rescue ATTACHMENT(S), ESTABLISHING A NEW SPECIAL REVENUE PROJECT
ENTITLED "STATE HOMELAND SECURITY GRANT PROGRAM
SUB -RECIPIENT AGREEMENT FOR EXPENDITURE OF LOCAL
GOVERNMENT UNIT FUNDING FOR FLORIDA URBAN SEARCH AND
RESCUE ("USAR") TASK FORCES (YEAR 2014)" AND APPROPRIATING
FUNDS, IN THE AMOUNT OF $100,000.00, CONSISTING OF A GRANT
FROM THE STATE OF FLORIDA, DEPARTMENT OF FINANCIAL SERVICES,
TO BE USED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF FIRE -RESCUE TO ACQUIRE
EQUIPMENT AND PROVIDE TRAINING IN STATE FIRE MARSHAL
APPROVED USAR TRAINING COURSES; AUTHORIZING THE CITY
MANAGER TO EXECUTE THE AGREEMENT, IN SUBSTANTIALLY THE
ATTACHED FORM, IN ORDER TO IMPLEMENT THE ACCEPTANCE AND
ADMINISTRATION OF SAID GRANT AWARD.
15-00881 Summary Form.pdf
15-00881 Legislation.pdf
15-00881 Exhibit - Agreement.pdf
This Matter was ADOPTED on the Consent Agenda.
Votes: Ayes: 3 - Commissioner(s) Gort, Sarnoff and Suarez
Absent: 2 - Commissioner(s) Carollo and Hardemon
R-15-0343
CA.2 RESOLUTION
15-00968
Department of A RESOLUTION OF THE MIAMI CITY COMMISSION, WITH
Building ATTACHMENT(S), ACCEPTING THE BID RECEIVED MAY 26, 2015,
PURSUANT TO INVITATION FOR BID NO. 476329, FROM MCO
ENVIRONMENTAL, INC., THE LOWEST RESPONSIVE AND RESPONSIBLE
BIDDER, FOR THE PROVISION OF ASBESTOS ABATEMENT SERVICES, ON
AN AS -NEEDED CONTRACTUAL BASIS, FOR AN INITIAL TERM OF THREE
(3) YEARS, WITH THE OPTION TO RENEW FOR TWO (2) ADDITIONAL ONE
(1) YEAR PERIODS; ALLOCATING FUNDS FROM THE VARIOUS SOURCES
OF FUNDS, SUBJECT TO THE AVAILABILITY OF FUNDS AND BUDGETARY
APPROVAL AT THE TIME OF NEED.
15-00968 Summary Form.pdf
15-00968 Invitation For Bid.pdf
15-00968 Legislation.pdf
15-00968 Exhibit - Bid Tabulation.pdf
15-00968 Exhibit - Award Sheet.pdf
15-00968 Exhibit - MCO Bid.pdf
15-00968 Exhibit - Corporate Detail.pdf
Fiscal Impact: Approximately $21,600.00 Annually
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City Commission
Meeting Minutes September 10, 2015
This Matter was ADOPTED on the Consent Agenda.
Votes: Ayes: 3 - Commissioner(s) Gort, Sarnoff and Suarez
Absent: 2 - Commissioner(s) Carollo and Hardemon
R-15-0344
CA.3 RESOLUTION
15-00966
Department of A RESOLUTION OF THE MIAMI CITY COMMISSION, WITH
Information ATTACHMENT(S), AUTHORIZING THE PROCUREMENT OF ANTIVIRUS,
Technology ANTI-SPAM, NETWORK SECURITY LICENSES, SUPPORT AND
EQUIPMENT PURSUANT TO INVITATION FOR BID NO. 499327 FROM
DIGITALERA GROUP, L.L.C., THE SOLE RESPONSIVE AND RESPONSIBLE
BIDDER, FOR AN INITIAL CONTRACT PERIOD OF THREE (3) YEARS, WITH
AN OPTION TO RENEW FOR TWO (2) ADDITIONAL ONE (1) YEAR
PERIODS; ALLOCATING FUNDS FROM THE VARIOUS SOURCES OF
FUNDS OF THE USER DEPARTMENT, SUBJECT TO THE AVAILABILITY OF
FUNDS AND BUDGETARY APPROVAL AT THE TIME OF NEED.
15-00966 Summary Form.pdf
15-00966 Invitation For Bid.pdf
15-00966 Legislation.pdf
15-00966 Exhibit.pdf
CA.4
15-01021
Fiscal Impact: Approximately $60,000.00 Annually
This Matter was ADOPTED on the Consent Agenda.
Votes: Ayes: 3 - Commissioner(s) Gort, Sarnoff and Suarez
Absent: 2 - Commissioner(s) Carollo and Hardemon
R-15-0345
RESOLUTION
Department of Real A RESOLUTION OF THE MIAMI CITY COMMISSION, ACCEPTING THE BID
Estate and Asset RECEIVED JUNE 17, 2015, PURSUANT TO INVITATION FOR BID NO.
Management 501325, FROM BLUE WATER MARINE SERVICES, INC., THE LOWEST
RESPONSIVE AND RESPONSIBLE BIDDER, FOR THE PROCUREMENT OF
SCHEDULED AND EMERGENCY UNDERWATER VISUAL INSPECTION
REPORTING/REPAIR, FOR THE DEPARTMENT OF REAL ESTATE AND
ASSET MANAGEMENT, ON AN AS NEEDED CONTRACTUAL BASIS, FOR
AN INITIAL PERIOD OF THREE (3) YEARS, WITH THE OPTION TO RENEW
FOR TWO (2) ADDITIONAL ONE (1) YEAR PERIODS, ALLOCATING FUNDS
FROM THE VARIOUS SOURCES OF FUNDS FROM THE USER
DEPARTMENT AND AGENCIES, SUBJECT TO THE AVAILABILITY OF
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City Commission
Meeting Minutes September 10, 2015
CA.5
15-00999
FUNDS AND BUDGETARY APPROVAL AT THE TIME OF NEED;
AUTHORIZING ADDITIONAL SUPPLIERS TO THE CONTRACT AS DEEMED
IN THE BEST INTEREST OF THE CITY OF MIAMI.
15-01021 Summary Form.pdf
15-01021 Bid Tabulation.pdf
15-01021 Bid Response.pdf
15-01021 Corporate Detail.pdf
15-01021 Invitation For Bid.pdf
15-01021 Legislation.pdf
Fiscal Impact: Approximately $20,000.00 Annually
This Matter was ADOPTED on the Consent Agenda.
Votes: Ayes: 3 - Commissioner(s) Gort, Sarnoff and Suarez
Absent: 2 - Commissioner(s) Carollo and Hardemon
R-15-0346
RESOLUTION
Department of Capital
Improvement
Programs/Transportat
ion
CA.6
15-00841
Department of Real
Estate and Asset
Management
A RESOLUTION OF THE MIAMI CITY COMMISSION, WITH
ATTACHMENT(S), AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE AN
AGREEMENT FOR WATER AND SANITARY SEWAGE SERVICES WITH
MIAMI-DADE COUNTY WATER AND SEWER DEPARTMENT, IN
SUBSTANTIALLY THE ATTACHED FORM, AS PART OF THE CITY OF MIAMI
DOWNTOWN BEAUTIFICATION EFFORTS, FOR FLAGLER STREET
RECONSTRUCTION, PROJECT, B-30606; WITH FUNDS TO BE ALLOCATED
FROM CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECT NO. B-30606, FOR SAID
PURPOSE.
15-00999 Summary Form.pdf
15-00999 Legislation.pdf
15-00999 Exhibit - Agreement.pdf
This Matter was ADOPTED on the Consent Agenda.
Votes: Ayes: 3 - Commissioner(s) Gort, Sarnoff and Suarez
Absent: 2 - Commissioner(s) Carollo and Hardemon
R-15-0347
RESOLUTION
A RESOLUTION OF THE MIAMI CITY COMMISSION, WITH
ATTACHMENT(S), AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE A
LICENSE, IN SUBSTANTIALLY THE ATTACHED FORM, WITH THE FLORIDA
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION, FOR A PERIOD NOT TO EXCEED
THE LAST DAY OF JULY 2018, FOR A LICENSE AREA VARIANT FROM
APPROXIMATELY TWO (2) FEET TO TWENTY (20) FEET OF A PORTION OF
THE CITY OF MIAMI OWNED PROPERTY LOCATED AT 900 SOUTHWEST
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City Commission
Meeting Minutes September 10, 2015
1ST STREET, MIAMI, FLORIDA (A/K/A MANUELARTIME THEATER), AS
DESCRIBED IN EXHIBIT "B," AND IN EXHIBIT "A," ATTACHED AND
INCORPORATED; WITH THE LICENSE BEING USED SOLELY FOR
SLOPING, TYING IN, HARMONIZING, AND RECONNECTING EXISTING
FEATURES OF THE PROPERTY WITH THE ROADWAY IMPROVEMENTS.
15-00841 Summary Form.pdf
15-00841 Legislation.pdf
15-00841 Exhibit - Agreement.pdf
This Matter was ADOPTED on the Consent Agenda.
Votes: Ayes: 3 - Commissioner(s) Gort, Sarnoff and Suarez
Absent: 2 - Commissioner(s) Carollo and Hardemon
R-15-0348
CA.7 RESOLUTION
15-01012
Office of the City A RESOLUTION OF THE MIAMI CITY COMMISSION, WITH
Attorney ATTACHMENT(S), ACCEPTING PAYMENTS TO THE CITY OF MIAMI
TOTALING $750,000.00, IN FULL SETTLEMENT OF ALL CLAIMS AND
DEMANDS IN THE CASE OF RICKENBACKER MARINA, INC. V. CITY OF
MIAMI, PENDING IN THE CIRCUIT COURT IN AND FOR MIAMI-DADE
COUNTY, CASE NO. 13-21970 CA 08, PURSUANT TO THE TERMS OF THE
SETTLEMENT AGREEMENT; FURTHER AUTHORIZING THE CITY
MANAGER TO EXECUTE THE SETTLEMENT AGREEMENT, IN
SUBSTANTIALLY THE ATTACHED FORM, AND ALL NECESSARY
DOCUMENTS, IN A FORM ACCEPTABLE TO THE CITY ATTORNEY, TO
EFFECTUATE THE SETTLEMENT AGREEMENT.
15-01012 Memo - Office of the City Attorney.pdf
15-01012 Legislation.pdf
15-01012 Exhibit - Agreement.pdf
This Matter was ADOPTED on the Consent Agenda.
Votes: Ayes: 3 - Commissioner(s) Gort, Sarnoff and Suarez
Absent: 2 - Commissioner(s) Carollo and Hardemon
R-15-0349
CA.8 RESOLUTION
15-01036
District 4- A RESOLUTION OF THE MIAMI CITY COMMISSION, PURSUANT TO
Commissioner SECTIONS 62-521(B)(3) AND (4) OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF MIAMI,
Francis Suarez FLORIDA, AS AMENDED, WAIVING THE TEMPORARY PRIVATE PROPERTY
EVENT LIMITATIONS OF TWO (2) EVENTS PER YEAR, TWO (2) WEEKS
EACH, IN ORDER FOR GILBERT'S BAKERY INC. TO CONTINUE
OPERATING ITS BUSINESS BY PARKING A FOOD TRUCK AT ITS 3340
CORAL WAY, MIAMI, FLORIDA LOCATION THROUGH DECEMBER 31, 2015,
WHILE REPAIRS TO THE BUILDING CAUSED BY A FIRE THAT OCCURRED
IN JULY, 2015 ARE COMPLETED.
15-01036 Legislation.pdf
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City Commission
Meeting Minutes September 10, 2015
This Matter was ADOPTED on the Consent Agenda.
Votes: Ayes: 3 - Commissioner(s) Gort, Sarnoff and Suarez
Absent: 2 - Commissioner(s) Carollo and Hardemon
R-15-0350
CA.9 RESOLUTION
15-00906
Department of Police A RESOLUTION OF THE MIAMI CITY COMMISSION, WITH
ATTACHMENT(S), AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE A
MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING AND A COMMUNITY SPACE LEASE
AGREEMENT, IN SUBSTANTIALLY THE ATTACHED FORM, WITH
MIAMI-DADE COUNTY FOR THE PURPOSE OF LEASING COMMUNITY
SPACE LOCATED WITHIN THE LIBERTY SQUARE PUBLIC HOUSING
DEVELOPMENT FOR USE BY THE CITY OF MIAMI POLICE DEPARTMENT
AS AN ON -SITE POLICE OFFICE.
15-00906 Summary Form.pdf
15-00906 Back -Up Documents.pdf
15-00906 Legislation.pdf
15-00906 Exhibit - Agreement.pdf
Motion by Commissioner Sarnoff, seconded by Commissioner Suarez, that this matter be
ADOPTED PASSED by the following vote.
Votes: Ayes: 4 - Commissioner(s) Gort, Sarnoff, Carollo and Suarez
Absent: 1 - Commissioner(s) Hardemon
R-15-0358
Chair Gort: CA.9.
Renita Holmes: Good morning, Commissioner, Mr. Chair. Madam Holmes.
Chair Gort: Wait a minute, let him present it first.
Ms. Holmes: Oh, my bad.
Chair Gort: Staff CA.9, is anybody going to address that? Morning, Chief
Rodolfo Llanes (Chief of Police): Morning, Commissioners. CA.9 is a resolution, with
attachments, authorizing the City Manager to execute a memorandum of understanding and
community space lease agreement with Miami -Dade County for the purpose of leasing
community space located within Liberty Square Housing Project for use by the City of Miami
Police as an on -site Police Office.
Chair Gort: Thank you. Yes, ma'am.
Ms. Holmes: Madam Holmes, the Women's Association Alliance Addressing Injustice and
Violent Epidemia [sic], as well as Women in Public Housing, Education, Finance and
Development, Incorporated. It's my concern that we're now beginning to do a lease, when not
too recently, it was not a public awareness or notice given of the -- we have a Police Department
six blocks away. We have 21 cameras, we've purchased four more, yet we have not deterred over
the 68 children and women that have been shot. I'm concerned that when we had a numerous
number of cops on patrol, on horseback, on everything; recently, myself, punched in the back by
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City Commission
Meeting Minutes September 10, 2015
CA.10
15-00984
Department of Police
cops at a public hearing, attempting to teach mother's safety and health; been around since weed
and seed first days. First business in public housing, no respect for that. I'm concerned that
we're giving properties to the City of Miami. Not too long ago, there was an argument between
the City and the County about who's supposed to patrol. And here I am, a woman trying to raise
my children, Commissioners, in an environment where there's hardly any dialogue, and then I
can have a conversation with Chief Llanes, but I got to search through him, because I got to go
through his personnel. We got an agency problem with policing. So when I see a memorandum
of understanding -- add in the last couple of months, a young man attacked in the back seat of a
car, and we don't even know who's giving him his legal rights, or where the young lady is that
taped it. I'm concerned that this is becoming a State police project, it's becoming one of
containment, and so I would like to know, as a member of the public, and under Department of
Justice, and under the fair housing rules and laws, is this an opportunity to get land, to ensure
that you receive it? But nothing will ensure us that we're healthy and safe, and that our
children's -- and the crimes against our children are going to decrease. I'd like to know a little
bit more about what understanding, what facts and what advantages are, and how we can do
that, because just giving police properties -- they own everything around there anyway when it
comes to the support of housing. And the housing on 12 th Avenue, that's the police in Hialeah. I
want to know, are we being contained like animals; women left to no defense? What is this
about, this understanding, because I don't have none.
Chair Gort: In conclusion.
Ms. Holmes: And in conclusion, we need to have more dialogue. We need to demand that when
the parents and the mothers ask, "Do you have a task force?" we get answers. We need more
disclosure, more openness, more sunshine and more inclusion and partnership when it comes to
policing our community; not just giving police the community and the community property. And
I believe that if I can have this conversa -- in closing, with you, sir, then we need to have that
conversation with every mother around there. How come the police not answering us,
responding to us as advocates?
Chair Gort: Thank you, ma'am. Thank you.
Ms. Holmes: Thank you.
Chair Gort: Any discussion? Do I have a motion?
Commissioner Sarnoff So move.
Commissioner Suarez: Second.
Chair Gort: Moved by Commissioner Sarnoff second by Commissioner Suarez. All in favor,
state it by saying "aye."
The Commission (Collectively): Aye.
RESOLUTION
A RESOLUTION OF THE MIAMI CITY COMMISSION, WITH
ATTACHMENT(S), AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE A
VOLUNTARY COOPERATION MUTUAL AID AGREEMENT, IN
SUBSTANTIALLY THE ATTACHED FORM, APPROVING THE CITY OF MIAMI
POLICE DEPARTMENT'S CONTINUED PARTICIPATION IN THE SOUTH
FLORIDA MONEY LAUNDERING STRIKE FORCE, CONSISTING OF THE
MIAMI-DADE STATE ATTORNEY'S OFFICE AND OTHER PARTICIPATING
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City Commission
Meeting Minutes September 10, 2015
LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCIES, TO COMBAT ILLEGAL MONEY
LAUNDERING, DRUG TRAFFICKING, RELATED CRIMINAL VIOLATIONS,
AND TO DISRUPT ORGANIZATIONS ENGAGING IN SUCH ACTIVITY
THROUGH COORDINATED AND LONG-TERM INVESTIGATIVE,
FORFEITURE, AND PROSECUTION EFFORTS, PURSUANT TO THE
AUTHORITY UNDER PART 1, CHAPTER 23, OF THE FLORIDA STATUTES,
"THE FLORIDA MUTUAL AID ACT".
15-00984 Summary Form.pdf
15-00984 Legislation.pdf
15-00984 Exhibit - Agreement.pdf
This Matter was ADOPTED on the Consent Agenda.
Votes: Ayes: 3 - Commissioner(s) Gort, Sarnoff and Suarez
Absent: 2 - Commissioner(s) Carollo and Hardemon
R-15-0351
CA.11 RESOLUTION
15-01024
City Manager's Office
A RESOLUTION OF THE MIAMI CITY COMMISSION, WITH
ATTACHMENT(S), AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE AN
AGREEMENT IN SUBSTANTIALLY THE ATTACHED FORM, WITH FLORIDA
INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY'S COLLEGE OF ARCHITECTURE AND THE
ARTS COMMUNICATION DEPARTMENT ("FIU-CARTA"), IN AN AMOUNT
NOT TO EXCEED $88,110.00, FOR A PERIOD OF TWELVE (12) MONTHS,
FOR PARTICIPATION IN FIU-CARTA'S CULTURAL AWARENESS AND
SENSITIVITY TRAINING PROGRAM FOR THE CITY OF MIAMI POLICE
DEPARTMENT, FURTHER AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO
EXECUTE ANY OTHER NECESSARY DOCUMENTS, IN A FORM
ACCEPTABLE TO THE CITY ATTORNEY, IN ORDER TO MAINTAIN THE
PROJECT.
15-01024 Summary Form.pdf
15-01024 Legislation.pdf
15-01024 Exhibit - Agreement.pdf
This Matter was ADOPTED on the Consent Agenda.
Votes: Ayes: 3 - Commissioner(s) Gort, Sarnoff and Suarez
Absent: 2 - Commissioner(s) Carollo and Hardemon
R-15-0352
CA.12 RESOLUTION
15-00863
Honorable Mayor
Tomas Regalado
A RESOLUTION OF THE MIAMI CITY COMMISSION AUTHORIZING THE
PLACEMENT OF A MARKER DESIGNATION, PURSUANT TO SECTION
54-136(1) OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF MIAMI, FLORIDA, AS AMENDED,
IN THE PUBLIC RIGHT-OF-WAY LOCATED AT THE TRAFFIC SEPARATOR
AT THE INTERSECTION OF SOUTHWEST 26 AVENUE AND TEQUESTA
LANE, MIAMI, FLORIDA, TO COMMEMORATE "CARLOS J. ARBOLEYA, JR.
CORNER" SUBJECT TO ALL APPLICABLE PERMITTING REQUIREMENTS.
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City Commission
Meeting Minutes September 10, 2015
15-00863 Back -Up Documents.pdf
15-00863 Map.pdf
15-00863 Legislation.pdf
This Matter was ADOPTED on the Consent Agenda.
Votes: Ayes: 3 - Commissioner(s) Gort, Sarnoff and Suarez
Absent: 2 - Commissioner(s) Carollo and Hardemon
R-15-0353
CA.13 RESOLUTION
15-01025
Office of the City
Attorney A RESOLUTION OF THE MIAMI CITY COMMISSION, WITH
ATTACHMENT(S), AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE AN
AGREEMENT, PURSUANT TO RESOLUTION NO. 15-0260, ADOPTED JUNE
11, 2015, IN SUBSTANTIALLY THE ATTACHED FORM, THAT REFLECTS A
MODIFICATION IN THE PAYEE FROM EDGEWATER CONSTRUCTION
GROUP, INC. TO ETCHEVERRY HARRISON LLP TRUST ACCOUNT, AS
COUNSEL FORAMERICAN SAFETY CASUALTY INSURANCE COMPANY,
AS SURETY FOR EDGEWATER CONSTRUCTION GROUP, INC.
15-01025 Memo - Office of the City Attorney.pdf
15-01025 Pre-Legislation.pdf
15-01025 Legislation.pdf
15-01025 Exhibit - Agreement.pdf
This Matter was ADOPTED on the Consent Agenda.
Votes: Ayes: 3 - Commissioner(s) Gort, Sarnoff and Suarez
Absent: 2 - Commissioner(s) Carollo and Hardemon
R-15-0354
CA.14 RESOLUTION
15-00985
Department of Public A RESOLUTION OF THE MIAMI CITY COMMISSION, WITH
Works ATTACHMENT(S), AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE AN
OFF -SYSTEM CONSTRUCTION AND MAINTENANCE AGREEMENT, IN
SUBSTANTIALLY THE ATTACHED FORM, WITH THE FLORIDA
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION, TO ACCOMMODATE THE
RECONSTRUCTION OF STATE ROAD 9/ NORTHWEST/SOUTHWEST 27TH
AVENUE BETWEEN SOUTHWEST 10TH STREET AND NORTHWEST 1ST
STREET, MIAMI, FLORIDA.
15-00985 Summary Form.pdf
15-00985 Legislation.pdf
15-00985 Exhibit - Agreement.pdf
This Matter was ADOPTED on the Consent Agenda.
Votes: Ayes: 3 - Commissioner(s) Gort, Sarnoff and Suarez
Absent: 2 - Commissioner(s) Carollo and Hardemon
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City Commission
Meeting Minutes September 10, 2015
CA.15
15-01123
City Manager's Office
R-15-0355
RESOLUTION
A RESOLUTION OF THE MIAMI CITY COMMISSION, WITH
ATTACHMENT(S), URGING GOVERNOR RICK SCOTTAND THE MEMBERS
OF THE FLORIDA LEGISLATURE AND THE FLORIDA CONGRESSIONAL
DELEGATION TO SUPPORT THE ISSUES ADOPTED AS THE LEGISLATIVE
PRIORITIES FOR THE CITY OF MIAMI DURING THE 2016 LEGISLATIVE
SESSION; DIRECTING THE CITY MANAGER TO TRANSMIT A COPY OF
THIS RESOLUTION TO THE APPROPRIATE ELECTED OFFICIALS.
15-01123 Summary Form.pdf
15-01123 Legislation.pdf
15-01123 Exhibit.pdf
This Matter was ADOPTED on the Consent Agenda.
Votes: Ayes: 3 - Commissioner(s) Gort, Sarnoff and Suarez
Absent: 2 - Commissioner(s) Carollo and Hardemon
R-15-0356
CA.16 RESOLUTION
15-00971
Department of Solid A RESOLUTION OF THE MIAMI CITY COMMISSION APPROVING
Waste TWENTY-THREE (23) SCHOLARSHIPS TO ATTEND AN EDUCATIONAL
INSTITUTION OR TO OBTAIN A COMMERCIAL DRIVER'S LICENSE, IN AN
AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $3,000.00 PER SCHOLARSHIP, FOR THE
FOLLOWING ELIGIBLE APPLICANTS: DIANA JULES, SI DNESHA HOLLAND,
KHALIL LEWIS, JAMESE BROWN, AMANDAQUINTANA, JONATHAN
DUARTE, MARCHAE GLENN, HENDRICK TOUSSAINT, SHERICA SMITH,
MONICA JOHNSON, BRANDIE PERRY, VANESSA FRIAS, PAULA MEDI NO,
ANGELO PERRY, VALBRUN FILS-AIME, JOYCE GADSON, ALEX BLANDON,
ANESTIN ETIENNE, ODALYS MACIAS, OLGA MATIAS, JOSEPH MILCENT,
SCOTTY ROGERS AND ZANDRAS SPIVEY; AUTHORIZING THE CITY
MANAGER OR DESIGNEE TO DISBURSE THE SCHOLARSHIPS WITH THE
PRESENTATION OF SATISFACTORY DOCUMENTATION FROM THE
EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS OR VOCATIONAL PROGRAMS; FURTHER
AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION OF ALL DOCUMENTS NECESSARY FOR
SAID PURPOSE, IN A FORM ACCEPTABLE TO THE CITY MANAGER OR
DESIGNEE AND CITY ATTORNEY; ALLOCATING FUNDS FROM THE
SPECIAL REVENUE FUND ENTITLED, "SOLID WASTE RECYCLING
EDUCATIONAL TRUST FUND," ACCOUNT CODE NUMBER
13100.212000.549000.0000.00000.
15-00971 Summary Form.pdf
15-00971 Scholarship Application.pdf
15-00971 Legislation.pdf
This Matter was ADOPTED on the Consent Agenda.
Votes: Ayes: 3 - Commissioner(s) Gort, Sarnoff and Suarez
Absent: 2 - Commissioner(s) Carollo and Hardemon
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City Commission
Meeting Minutes September 10, 2015
R-15-0357
Adopted the Consent Agenda
Motion by Commissioner Suarez, seconded by Commissioner Sarnoff, including all the
preceding items marked as having been adopted on the Consent Agenda. The motion
carried by the following vote:
Votes: Ayes: 3 - Commissioner(s) Gort, Sarnoff and Suarez
Absent: 2 - Commissioner(s) Carollo and Hardemon
END OF CONSENT AGENDA
Chair Gort: Okay, my understanding, the consent agenda, we have someone that'd like to speak
on the CA.9, so any other items in the consent agenda that you'd like to pull?
Commissioner Suarez: Move it.
Commissioner Sarnoff. Second.
Chair Gort: It's been moved by Commissioner Francis Suarez; second by Commissioner
Sarnoff, with the exception of CA.9. Any further discussion? Being none, all in favor, state it by
saying aye."
The Commission (Collectively): Aye.
Later...
Chair Gort: Yes, sir.
Mayor Tombs Regalado: Mr. Chairman, just a scrivener error on CA.12. It's Carlos Arboleya,
Jr. Plaza, not corner. "Thank you.
Chair Gort: Thank you.
Victoria Mendez (City Attorney): You don't have to reconsider anything; I'll just write a memo to
that effect.
Chair Gort: Okay.
Ms. Mendez: Thank you.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
9:00 A.M.
PH.1 RESOLUTION
15-00987
Department of A RESOLUTION OF THE MIAMI CITY COMMISSION, WITH
Community and ATTACHMENT(S), AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO GRANTAN
Economic EXTENSION OF TIME FOR THE 2014-2015 AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE
Development CITY OF MIAMI AND ALLAPATTAH BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY,
INC., EXTENDING THE AGREEMENT END DATE FROM MARCH 31, 2015 TO
DECEMBER 31, 2015, TO PROVIDE HOUSING QUALITY STANDARD
INSPECTION SERVICES, AS SPECIFIED IN ATTACHMENT "PC; FURTHER
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City Commission
Meeting Minutes September 10, 2015
AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE ALL DOCUMENTS, IN A
FORM ACCEPTABLE TO THE CITY ATTORNEY, FOR SAID PURPOSE(S).
15-00987 Summary Form.pdf
15-00987 Notice to the Public.pdf
15-00987 Pre-Legislation.pdf
15-00987 Legislation.pdf
15-00987 Attachment A.pdf
Motion by Commissioner Sarnoff, seconded by Commissioner Suarez, that this matter be
ADOPTED PASSED by the following vote.
Votes: Ayes: 4 - Commissioner(s) Gort, Sarnoff, Carollo and Suarez
Absent: 1 - Commissioner(s) Hardemon
R-15-0359
Chair Gort: PH.1.
George Mensah: Good morning, Commissioners. George Mensah, director of Community
Development. CA.1 [sic] is a resolution authorizing the City Manager to grant an extension of
time -- sorry -- for Allapattah Business Development Authority, from March 31, 2015 to
December 31, 2015, for them to be able to complete the housing quality inspections.
Chair Gort: Thank you, sir. The public hearing. Anyone in the public would like to address this
issue? Yes, ma'am, you're recognized.
Renita Holmes: Madam Holmes again, with the Women's Association Alliance Addressing
Injustice and Violent Epidemia [sic]; Women in Public Housing, Education and Finance and
Development, Incorporated Here we go again, another good old boy contract and document. I
am seriously serious about the status of women and their children. We continue to give contracts
for fair housing and inspection, knowing these women living in funky, mildewed places. Would
you like to see my cameras? I've got a whole bag full. So we're going to extend contracts to
people that we don't know their performance. I'm seriously concerned about extending
contracts. I'm seriously concerned by the cronyism, the nepotism, and the lack of fair
performance. I don't have no problem with people, but you got to understand, I'm living here.
I'm not some great lawyer sitting up there, hearing things and then okaying it, and then not
entertaining colloquy or interest in the complaints that I'm making. This is something that I've
seen my Commissioners up there -- and unfortunately, my Commissioner isn't there -- when we've
got the slummiest places in the world So this company -- may I ask a question through the
Chair? How do -- is there anything in that contract to ensure that their performance is on point?
And I want to know if it's any women doing any of this housing, and inspection, and so forth,
because, you know, it's just not coming out right. It's almost like the Parks situation. We got
contracts extended now when we know that there's an issue. We got consultants for funky parks
now after they've been cleaned up, and they're still closed. I mean, what are we doing here?
What are we doing? As a taxpayer, I want to know, what are we doing here? You need to put
some women on these contracts. You need to take some cleanup on some of these contracts. And
we need to take a look at this cronyism and nepotism, because I don't see no basis in the
legislation for this.
Chair Gort: Thank you, ma'am. Anyone else in the public like to address this one issue?
Anyone? Close the public hearings. Do I have any motion?
Commissioner Sarnoff So move. Sorry.
Commissioner Suarez: Second.
Chair Gort: Moved by Commissioner Sarnoff.
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City Commission
Meeting Minutes September 10, 2015
PH.2
15-00991
Department of
Community and
Economic
Development
Commissioner Suarez: Second, second.
Chair Gort: Second by Commissioner Suarez. Any further discussion? Being none, all in favor,
state it by saying "aye."
The Commission (Collectively): Aye.
RESOLUTION
A RESOLUTION OF THE MIAMI CITY COMMISSION AUTHORIZING THE
ACCEPTANCE OF STATE HOUSING INITIATIVES PARTNERSHIP ("SHIP")
FUNDS, IN THE TOTAL AMOUNT OF $1,299,453.00, FOR FISCAL YEAR
2015-2016, FOR THE STRATEGIES UNDER THE CURRENT SHIP LOCAL
HOUSING ASSISTANCE PLAN ("LHAP"), AUTHORIZING THE CITY
MANAGER TO EXECUTE THE NECESSARY DOCUMENTS, FOR SAID
PURPOSE(S).
15-00991 Summary Form.pdf
15-00991 Notice to the Public.pdf
15-00991 Pre-Legislation.pdf
15-00991 Back -Up from Law Dept.pdf
15-00991 Legislation.pdf
Motion by Commissioner Sarnoff, seconded by Commissioner Carollo, that this matter be
ADOPTED PASSED by the following vote.
Votes: Ayes: 4 - Commissioner(s) Gort, Sarnoff, Carollo and Suarez
Absent: 1 - Commissioner(s) Hardemon
R-15-0360
Chair Gort: PH.2.
George Mensah (Director, Community Development): PH.2 is a resolution authorizing the
acceptance of State Housing Initiative Partnership Funds, in total amount of approximately $1.2
million, for fiscal year 2015/2016.
Chair Gort: Thank you. It's a public hearing. Is anyone in the public like to address this issue?
Renita Holmes: I don't even know why we have these public hearings, Mr. Chair. Good
morning. They just want to hear, and this is -- you're just hearing the public. There's no real
addressing the public. Now, we've got a strategy under the current SHIP (State Housing
Initiatives Partnership) Local Housing Assistance Plan. You know, this is how I feel about the
Local Housing Assistance Plan. This is how I feel about it, because it gives me nothing. I am a
woman, a black woman -- none of that -- most of this housing that I see my immigrant sisters and
my migrant sisters go through, we're moving from one slum to the next. So does -- this is SHIP
money, and all it does is get attached to developers. And we don't necessarily, as a city, have the
best reputation for how we handle SHIP monies, and how we handle it in the past. So now, we
got this resolution that pops up. I mean --
Mr. Mensah: Mr. Chair --
Ms. Holmes: No, no, no disrespect. I come to see this man, Mr. Chair, and I got to make an
appointment. I got to come by, then make an appointment a month later to come see some -- and
if I explain what it is I'm corning to inquire about or give some insight, I got to wait for a ethics
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Meeting Minutes September 10, 2015
complaint, or Al Crespo, or somebody give me -- and then here it comes to you all. Now, I'm
coming to you all. It comes to you, and you say nothing, and it can't be about my personality.
SHIP funds, HOME (Home Investment Partnership Program) funds, public housing funds have
been misused and abused. Don't let me start talking about CDBG (Community Development
Block Grant). That's comingled with these funds. And I'm just making it a point of record, sir,
that we need to start asking more questions. I know Commissioner Carollo did at one point
asked about reports. Did he ever get his reports? Did any of you ever inquire about it? Please,
stop naming buildings to go down after me, dilapidated. Stop giving public funds, and stop
mixing them with CDBG funds. That's the case here, and this is my Federal complaint, besides.
I've had enough of it. I'm tired of living in ghettos. You keep giving money to people that mess
up the money. It's ghettos. And then to say we got a relationship, it's a smiling affair, but I bet
you your children ain't running around in mildew and funk paid by with SHIP.
Chair Gort: Thank you, ma'am. Anyone else would like to address this issue? Anyone else?
Being none, close the public hearings. Do I have a motion?
Commissioner Sarnoff So move.
Commissioner Suarez: Second.
Commissioner Carollo: Second. Discussion.
Chair Gort: It's been moved, second. Discussion.
Commissioner Carollo: I want to ver with the director. This is just accepting the monies,
correct?
Mr. Mensah: This is just accepting the money. As you know, these funds are primarily used to
provide single-family rehabilitation funds to homeowners.
Commissioner Carollo: But right now, we are not voting on how these funds are going to be
used.
Mr. Mensah: No, no, no.
Commissioner Carollo: It's just --
Mr. Mensah: Just on the funds.
Commissioner Carollo: -- it's money from the State, the SHIP --
Mr. Mensah: Yes.
Commissioner Carollo: -- funds are from the State and the City is saying, "Yes, we will accept
the 1.3 million."
Mr. Mensah: That's correct.
Commissioner Carollo: However, your point is well taken, Ms. Holmes. Right now, we're just
accepting the monies. In the future, we will be deciding on how the monies are going to be used.
Chair Gort: Thank you, ma'am.
Ms. Holmes: Thank you, thank you.
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Meeting Minutes September 10, 2015
PH.3
15-00992
Department of
Community and
Economic
Development
Chair Gort: PH.3.
Ms. Holmes: PH.3, here we go. And so the pattern -- I'm sorry.
Commissioner Sarnoff. We need to vote.
Ms. Holmes: Qualify.
Chair Gort: Let him make the presentation first.
Ms. Holmes: I'm sorry.
Commissioner Sarnoff. We need to vote, I think.
Commissioner Carollo: Yeah.
Ms. Holmes: We need to do all sorts --
Commissioner Sarnoff. We didn't vote, Mr. Chair.
Chair Gort: We didn't vote? All in favor, state it by saying "aye."
The Commission (Collectively): Aye.
RESOLUTION
A RESOLUTION OF THE MIAMI CITY COMMISSION, WITH
ATTACHMENT(S), AUTHORIZING THE TRANSFER OF PROGRAM YEAR
2015-2016 COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT FUNDS IN THE
AMOUNT OF $150,000.00 FROM CITY OF MIAMI, PARK
ACQUISITION -DISTRICT 4, PUBLIC FACILITY AND IMPROVEMENT, TO THE
LATIN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,
FOR COMMERCIAL FA?ADE IMPROVEMENTACTIVITIES IN DISTRICT 4,
AS SPECIFIED IN ATTACHMENT "PC, ATTACHED AND INCORPORATED;
AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE THE NECESSARY
DOCUMENTS, IN A FORM ACCEPTABLE TO THE CITY ATTORNEY, FOR
SAID PURPOSE.
15-00992 Summary Form.pdf
15-00992 Notice to the Public.pdf
15-00992 Pre-Legislation.pdf
15-00992 Legislation.pdf
15-00992 Attachment A.pdf
Motion by Commissioner Suarez, seconded by Commissioner Carollo, that this matter be
ADOPTED PASSED by the following vote.
Votes: Ayes: 4 - Commissioner(s) Gort, Sarnoff, Carollo and Suarez
Absent: 1 - Commissioner(s) Hardemon
R-15-0361
George Mensah (Director, Community Development): Commissioners, PH.3 is the --
authorizing the transfer of program year 2015/2016 Community Development Block Grant funds
in an amount of $150, 000, which was previous to set aside for acquisition of park in District 4,
and this is to be provided to Latin Chamber of Commerce of United States of America,
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City Commission
Meeting Minutes September 10, 2015
CAMACOL, and this is for facade improvements in District 4.
Chair Gort: Thank you. Yes, ma'am, it's a public hearing.
Renita Holmes: And this is a pattern and a trend. We get the SHIP (State Housing Initiative
Partnership Program) money, then we get the CDBG (Community Development Block Grant)
money, and then certain people get the monies. I applaud District 4, because I know that in your
district, you're going to do wonderful things. But since 30 years and three generations, $7 a
month comes out of the monthly rent for women to become first-time home buyers in housing and
urban development; and in public housing, 21. Seven dollars a month for 30 years, my
grandchild, my working granddaughter, my daughter, but yet, we don't qual for this. So you
got the folks that qualify in this doggone great city, although the City's lost tons of money, and
we only getting 15 percent of that, if we're lucky, or maybe less. We're going to entrust them
again, we're going to go through the same pattern of accepting SHIP monies, we're going to
build new houses, and then a black woman ain't going to get it, or a Hispanic woman that's
single mom ain't going to get it, because there's no checks and balances in this process of
accepting money. Last year at the CDBG, I had to fight three guys. Leroy and all of them got
jobs, but I was the first landscaper in public housing; ran a not -for -profit, for profit. These guys
could hardly even write a high school diploma out. And I'm not -- I'm just being serious. I'm
sick of you getting money in the name of poor women, giving it to the men to build, give boys
jobs that they can't get, and then turn around. For seven years, you been taking my rent money.
I got nothing out of these SHIP monies to add with my first-time down payment as a first-time
homeowner, which I'm entitled to, and then they tell me the CDBG Federal guidelines are the
ones they have to go by, but I don't see this being done in this City. I don't even see people really
want to talk about that we've lost CDBG monies. And so I look at this process, and again, for the
director, this is my vocal complaint, my local complaint, and here is my Federal complaint
recently. And it's not a threat. It's just why do I have to go up to come back down to talk about
creating a process that -- to receive monies that were given to me? The police get them, the
contractor get them, developer get them; add a little SHIP, and then they ship me out. And I still
have to wait a month to get an appointment to talk to this fine gentleman. Oh, please --
Chair Gort: Thank you, ma'am.
Ms. Holmes: -- stop receiving monies to go down -- to put on buildings that go down,
dilapidated in my name.
Chair Gort: Thank you, ma'am.
Ms. Holmes: Thank you.
Chair Gort: Any further -- anyone in the public would like to address this issue? Seeing none,
hearing none, we'll close the public hearing. You're recognized, Commissioner Carollo.
Commissioner Carollo: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Real quick, Mr. Chairman. Madam Holmes
mentioned something that I just want to make the Administration aware of. She mentioned the 15
percent public service. In the legislative priorities, I noticed that asking the Federal government
to change the cap from 15 to 25 percent is not there. We sent you an email. We did go a little
late, so I'm, you know, respectfully requesting that we add that once again to the legislative
priorities, because, for some reason, it's not there; which, if it's not there, indirectly, you're
letting me know the Administration is no longer working with whoever in trying to change that
funding mechanism. So again, I'm requesting -- I don't know ifI have to do it in a motion -- to
make sure that, once again, whatever we passed back in 2010 is there in our legislative
priorities. And again, we've spoken about it many times. It's just changing the cap from 15
percent to 25 percent in the public service dollars.
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Meeting Minutes September 10, 2015
Chair Gort: Mr. Mayor, you're recognized.
Mayor Tomas Regalado: Thank you. And the Commissioner is right. What happened was that
we went and met with Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart. Congressman Diaz-Balart has been one
of the supporters of this measure, and he said unequivocally that it's impossible to do it on this
session; that the chairman of the subcommittee and the committee have refused and told him that
we could include it, but, you know, Commissioner Carollo and -- has been in Washington many
times, and we have done the rounds. All of you have done the rounds, you know, and two
Senators, four Congress members, and now Congress Member Diaz-Balart says that he really
believe -- and he knows that for a fact -- that we won't be able to even get it through the
subcommittee. We could try and start. I recommend that we don't do the trips anyway, but we
can put it back and hope that someone will help us on this and start the letter -writing process.
But Commissioner Carollo is right. We have been at this for six years now, going to Washington,
going to Washington, and it never got past the subcommittee.
Chair Gort: I think our legislators' in favor of it. I think we all visited every one of them. We
have talked to them. We asked the people that provided the service to the community to send
letters and phone calls to them, so I don't see any harm in putting it back on again and let -- they
know.
Mayor Regalado: You know, I -- we should include it and try again, but I think it's better to meet
with them here instead of spending the time and money going to Washington, because he said
that the subcommittee chairman and the committee chairman won't even consider any language
like that.
Chair Gort: Okay, thank you.
Commissioner Carollo: Mr. Chairman.
Chair Gort: Yes, sir.
Commissioner Carollo: Yeah, I still think that it should be there, because, in the meantime, the
City coffers, the general fund is still subsidizing the public service dollars, so I think it should be
there and we should get better explanations. And my point is not flying to Washington and all
this. My point is that we should not just -- you know, say, "okay," when they say, "No, this is
impossible." I've seen many things that in the past have said that it's impossible, and we get it
done, so I don't think we should just, you know, consent that, okay, we give up. I don't think we
should give up, and I think it should be there, because, like I said, dollars from the general fund
once again are going to subsidize these programs. So I do think it's a priority for the City.
Thank you.
Chair Gort: Commissioner Suarez, you're recognized.
Commissioner Suarez: Thank you, Mr. Chair. I'll be very brief. I think -- I was going to say
that a slightly different way than Commissioner Carollo said it, which is essentially to say that
our priorities are really different from the fact that there's a practical reality as to whether or not
they're going to be accomplished by another body that we're asking to do it. You know, our
priorities are our priorities. I mean, this is a priority for us, so whether another government
decides it's practical to do it or not, you know, is really on them, if you will. You know, we want
to be clear as to what our priorities are, and consistent, because we don't want to make it seem
like this year, well, maybe this year, it's not a priority.
Unidentified Speaker: You're right.
Commissioner Suarez: You know, so I think, you know, I think we're all in agreement that I think
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City Commission
Meeting Minutes September 10, 2015
we should leave it on the priority list.
Chair Gort: Gentlemen, I think we're going to get a report on the -- my understanding, it's on
the agenda -- the legislation. We have it, so we can add it when it comes in front of its, okay?
Commissioner Carollo: Thank you.
Chair Gort: Thank you.
Commissioner Suarez: Mr. Chair.
Chair Gort: Yes, sir.
Commissioner Suarez: May I be recognized? There's a time certain for 10. It's 10:15. RE
(resolution) --
Commissioner Carollo: Did we vote on this one?
Chair Gort: Let us vote on this.
Commissioner Suarez: Oh, my apologies.
Chair Gort: Okay, any further discussion? Being none --
Todd B. Hannon (City Clerk): Chair, is there a motion?
Chair Gort: No, I know. I need a motion.
Commissioner Suarez: I'll move it.
Commissioner Carollo: Second.
Chair Gort: Moved by Commissioner Suarez; second by Commissioner Carollo. Any further
discussion? Being none, all in favor, state it by saying "aye."
The Commission (Collectively): Aye.
PH.4 RESOLUTION
15-00993
Department of A RESOLUTION OF THE MIAMI CITY COMMISSION AUTHORIZING THE
Community and CITY MANAGER TO TRANSFER COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK
Economic GRANT FUNDS IN THE AMOUNT OF $14,868.00, ORIGINALLY ALLOCATED
Development TO COCONUT GROVE CARES, INC. FOR PUBLIC SERVICES ACTIVITIES,
TO THE START PROGRAM, INC.; AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO
EXECUTE THE NECESSARY DOCUMENTS, IN A FORM ACCEPTABLE TO
THE CITY ATTORNEY, FOR SAID PURPOSE.
15-00993 Summary Form.pdf
15-00993 Notice to the Public.pdf
15-00993 Pre-Legislation.pdf
15-00993 Legislation.pdf
Motion by Commissioner Sarnoff, seconded by Commissioner Carollo, that this matter be
ADOPTED PASSED by the following vote.
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City Commission
Meeting Minutes September 10, 2015
Votes: Ayes: 4 - Commissioner(s) Gort, Sarnoff, Carollo and Suarez
Absent: 1 - Commissioner(s) Hardemon
R-15-0362
Chair Gort: R4.
George Mensah (Director, Community Development): P4 [sic].
Chair Gort: FR.4.
Mr. Mensah: George Mensah, director of Community Development. P.4 [sic] is authorizing the
City Manager to transfer an amount of $14, 868 CDBG (Community Development Block Grant)
funds which was originally allocated to Grove Cares, Incorporated, for public service activities
to the Start Program, Incorporated; authorizing the City Manager to execute the necessary
documents in a form acceptable to the City Attorney. This is based in a District 2 agency.
Chair Gort: Okay.
Commissioner Carollo: Second.
Chair Gort: Moved and second. It's a public hearing. Is anyone in the public would like to
address this issue?
Renita Holmes: Yes.
Chair Gort: Yes, ma'am.
Ms. Holmes: Madam Holmes again, the Women's Association Alliance Addressing Injustice and
Violent Epidemia [sicJ, as well as Women in Public Housing, Education, Finance and
Development. And so in this lesson, as we continue to believe that CDBG funds, which seem to
promote and fund capital purchases for other projects other than to find a woman a decent place
to live, affordable place to live, 33 percent and all those Federal guidelines attached, and that
some of the CDBG money, which from time to time, comes back to general funds, Commissioner,
through the Chair, Suarez, general funds has been funded by CDBG funds for all so long. So
here we go again with some money that seems to come up, but yet, women like me, who have
been volunteering for years, first business and housing, paying for our licenses, paying -- if not,
not even receiving stipends; building, teaching our sons construction, landscaping and so forth,
we get no funds. And all of a sudden, now it comes back, and we find it -- I can't find it, or I
have to wait two months, or three months and -- to an appointment, and then the process is over,
and the bid is closed, and it's competitive, and all that stuff although we have less monies,
because CDBG monies' been lost. I'm just talking about the fairness in this, the whole picture.
And now, we got money that's going to another program, selectively, without any real criteria.
Was the same criteria still utilized in selecting this funds that was recaptured to go to somewhere
else? Because I don't think that I had a fair opportunity. I'm still waiting for years, yet still
performing. One minute, I'm competitive; the next minute, I'm not. But all of a sudden, we find
money, CDBG monies, not for a fire station over there on the east side, the coastal, but we find
money for Start, but we can't find none for our jobs program for our working mothers who are
all poor and Section 3's under the Federal guidelines. But now, because it's general funds, and
just because we find some, we can find the Start Program. Start's just start, and I been here 30
years. Where is my money?
Chair Gort: Thank you, ma'am. Anyone else? Anyone else?
Commissioner Sarnoff No. And just to clear the record, Mr. Chair.
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SR.1
15-00058
Chair Gort: Yes, sir.
Commissioner Sarnoff. That is a District 2 allocation, which went to Coconut Grove Cares,
which is essentially the Barnyard. And what they were doing was asking, as the financial agent
on behalf of the Start Program, until such time as they became a 501 (c)(3). Now, while Start
may not be for mothers, it is for children, and it is to give children who are high school and
below an opportunity to get further education, after -school activity, so they actually continue to
learn with after -school care and activities in their subject school criteria. So I just wanted to
clear the record as to what that is so that there's no misunderstanding, and there is no capital
dollars involved.
Chair Gort: Thank you, sir. Any further discussion? Do I have a motion?
Commissioner Sarnoff. So move.
Chair Gort: It's been moved by Commissioner Sarnoff.
Commissioner Carollo: Second.
Chair Gort: Is there a second?
Commissioner Carollo: Second.
Chair Gort: Second by Commissioner Carollo.
Commissioner Carollo: I thought there was a motion and a second.
Todd B. Hannon (City Clerk): We're good to go.
Chair Gort: All in favor, state it by saying "aye."
The Commission (Collectively): Aye.
END OF PUBLIC HEARINGS
SECOND READING ORDINANCES
ORDINANCE
Second Reading
District 2- TO BE WITHDRAWN
Commissioner Marc
David Sarnoff AN ORDINANCE OF THE MIAMI CITY COMMISSION AMENDING CHAPTER
37 OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF MIAMI, FLORIDA, AS AMENDED,
ENTITLED "OFFENSES -MISCELLANEOUS," MORE PARTICULARLY BY
ADDING A NEW SECTION TO PROHIBIT CAMPING ON PUBLIC PROPERTY;
PROVIDING FOR DEFINITIONS AND PENALTIES; CONTAINING A
SEVERABILITY CLAUSE, AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
15-00058 Legislation SR (V3).pdf
Motion by Commissioner Sarnoff, seconded by Commissioner Suarez, that this matter be
WITHDRAWN PASSED by the following vote.
Votes: Ayes: 3 - Commissioner(s) Gort, Sarnoff and Suarez
Absent: 2 - Commissioner(s) Carollo and Hardemon
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SR.2
15-00654
Department of Real
Estate and Asset
Management
ORDINANCE
Second Reading
AN ORDINANCE OF THE MIAMI CITY COMMISSION AMENDING CHAPTER
18 OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF MIAMI, FLORIDA, AS AMENDED,
ENTITLED "FINANCE," BY CREATING ARTICLE XI ENTITLED "LEASES OR
MANAGEMENT OF CITY -OWNED PROPERTY GENERALLY AND LEASES
OF CITY -OWNED SUBMERGED LANDS," AND ARTICLE XII ENTITLED
"TIME LIMITATIONS REGARDING DEVELOPMENT OF IMPROVEMENTS TO
CITY -OWNED PROPERTY" TO IMPLEMENT THE PROVISIONS OF CITY
CHARTER AMENDMENTS ADOPTED BY THE VOTERS ON AUGUST 26,
2014, WHICH REQUIRED THE CITY TO ADOPT METHODS TO ADMINISTER
(A) CITY -OWNED PROPERTY SALE OR LEASE -GENERALLY, AND (B)
CERTAIN LEASES OR MANAGEMENT AGREEMENTS OF CITY -OWNED
SUBMERGED LANDS; CONTAINING A SEVERABILITY CLAUSE AND
PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
15-00654 Summary Form SR.pdf
15-00654 Back -Up from Law Dept. FR/SR.pdf
15-00654 Legislation FR/SR.pdf
Motion by Commissioner Sarnoff, seconded by Commissioner Suarez, that this matter be
ADOPTED WITH MODIFICATIONS PASSED by the following vote.
Votes: Ayes: 4 - Commissioner(s) Gort, Sarnoff, Carollo and Suarez
Absent: 1 - Commissioner(s) Hardemon
13540
Chair Gort: SR.2 was deferred.
Daniel Rotenberg (Director, Public Facilities): Good morning, Commissioners. FR.1 is an
ordinance of the City of Miami Commission amending Chapter 4, Article -- Division 2 of the
Code --
Daniel J. Alfonso (City Manager): Dan, Dan, hold on.
Commissioner Carollo: SR.2.
Mr. Alfonso: SR.2.
Mr. Rotenberg: Oh, sorry.
Mr. Alfonso: Skipped them.
Chair Gort: He's in a hurry.
Mr. Rotenberg: Very exciting. Good morning. Daniel Rotenberg, director of the Department of
Real Estate & Asset Management. SR.2 is the second reading of the ordinance amending
Chapter 18 of the Code, Leases and Management of City -owned Submerged Lands. This is to
implement the provisions of the City Charter amendment adopted by the voters on August 26,
2014, which required the City to adopt methods to administer agreements with City -owned
submerged lands.
Commissioner Sarnoff. So move.
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Chair Gort: Thank you, sir.
Commissioner Sarnoff So move.
Chair Gort: Moved by Commissioner Sarnoff.
Commissioner Suarez: Second.
Chair Gort: Second by Commissioner Suarez.
Commissioner Carollo: Mr. Chairman.
Chair Gort: Yes, sir.
Commissioner Carollo: Question: I just want to very on the record, Madam City Attorney, all
this is really putting the same ballot language or the intent of the ballot language and coding
it, correct?
Victoria Mendez (City Attorney): It is. And the City Attorney's Office had a few changes that we
wanted to enter into the record, basically just bringing it more in compliance with the Charter
amendment that was passed but pretty much, it's putting into effect that which the Charter
language allows for; the submerged lands that are connected to upland owners to be leased, but
it doesn't have to be -- some of the language that I wanted to put in is that the -- that there may
be a lease agreement; not that there has to be a required lease agreement; that there's also, in
adding another section, just talking about the limitations regarding the development of the
improvements; just basically that they need to comply. Arguably, you -- the Charter already
dictates that, but we just wanted to put it in a one stop location, so we could show you the
highlights of the additional paragraph or so, but, you know, it could pass with or without that,
but, obviously, you know, our office likes to add things sometimes. So that's all.
Chair Gort: Thank you.
Commissioner Carollo: As amended?
Chair Gort: As amended.
Ms. Mendez: Thank you.
Chair Gort: Does the maker of the motion --?
Commissioner Sarnoff I didn't even understand her explanation to be candid with you. So ifI
don't understand it, why would I amend it?
Ms. Mendez: You have a document that was just passed out that we're adding --
Commissioner Sarnoff I listened to what you had to say.
Ms. Mendez: Oh, okay.
Commissioner Sarnoff I didn't understand it.
Ms. Mendez: Basically, we're adding a section that talks about the limitations regarding the
development of improvements to City -owned lands to this ordinance, and it talks about -- it just
delineates the Charter provisions that we put in that you need to get building permits within four
years of the effective date of the lease, and the section shall not be applicable when there's a
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delay in the performance of any obligation as the result of a force majeure. So everything that's
in the Charter provision, we're just putting it in here, and those were the amendments that we put
in between first and second reading that we're giving to you today, highlighted. So.
Commissioner Sarnoff How come that wasn't in the first reading?
Ms. Mendez: We were pressed for time, basically.
Commissioner Sarnoff As amended.
Chair Gort: Okay, as amended. Any further discussion?
Commissioner Suarez: Second; seconder accepts.
Chair Gort: It's been moved and second. All in favor, state it by saying "aye.
Todd B. Hannon (City Clerk): Chair, it's an ordinance. Did you want to open up your public
hearing?
Chair Gort: Open the public hearings.
Renita Holmes: Boy, my two cents is going far. This is the price to pay to get it, but I just have
a question, Mr. Chair --
Chair Gort: Yes, sir.
Ms. Holmes: -- that I'd like to get an answer regarding City -owned submerged land. Does that
mean publicly owned --
Chair Gort: No.
Ms. Holmes: -- or does that mean facility, City -- because I haven't really been able to see the
definition between "City -owned" and "City land," but I could see poor people's money spent on
it, you know, like --
Chair Gort: Madam Attorney, will you explain?
Ms. Holmes: -- just trying to --
Ms. Mendez: It's -- submerged lands are City -owned lands under water.
Ms. Holmes: "City -owned, " can you define "City -owned"? Does that mean like public tax
payers, or City as a franchise or --
Ms. Mendez: There's a little difference with submerged lands, based on like the common law and
case law that has to do with like the riparian rights of an upland owner, so the upland owner is a
private owner of land that abuts submerged lands, which is right next to it. And actually,
Commissioner Sarnoff can jump in here whenever he wants to help me out, since he knows more
about admiralty and marine law than I do. But basically, because of the constraints of our
Charter, we passed a Charter reform that allows us to enter into leases for the submerged lands
that only the people that usually only have access to it is the upland owners.
Ms. Holmes: Thank you, Madam Attorney. I just still have confusion with who is "us" and
whose is "we's "; "us'" and "we's" -- I mean, because also I -- I had also a question that I did
try to submit in between, and I'd like to thank the City Manager's Office for being open. It's just
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getting timely responses. What is "City -owned"? Does that mean "taxpayers?" Is this
Federally funded land or submerged land? Is this under Federal guidelines? I still have not
gotten that point of clarity.
Ms. Mendez: No, it's not federally -- Federal guidelines or anything that -- it's monies that we've
gotten from the government to maintain this. It's just basically land under water that was given
by the State legislature to the City many years ago.
Ms. Holmes: Okay, all right. So but when we say "City -owned, " do we mean the publicly
owned or just the City as internal department or is --
Ms. Mendez: No, no, it's just --
Chair Gort: We all own it.
Ms. Mendez: -- City -owned submerged lands; City -owned land under water that we usually
cannot do anything with. The upland owners are the only ones that can use it usually.
Ms. Holmes: I'm to assume that any land that has right-of-way, Mr. Chair, and the City
manages or makes amendment or Charter is actually taxpayers' land, as well; is that true, or are
we dealing with a separate entity? Because certain employees give me certain definitions. I'm
just making a notice of that to you, and I don't want to be illiterate or --
Chair Gort: It's not separate.
Ms. Holmes: -- ill defined.
Chair Gort: Let me tell you one example. We have some buildings in Brickell area. They
budded [sic] their building. The building is there. They want to build the -- what do you call it?
-- a ramp for the boats and all that. That submerged land is owned by the City of Miami. They
would have to lease from the City of Miami, but in order for build -- they can only build the --
what do you call those? -- boat ramps, that's all they can do. And they have to go through the
whole process of the engineers and all the -- DERM's (Department of Environmental Resource
Management) and all those process before an issue is -- we don't issue the permit.
Ms. Mendez: And they pay the taxes.
Ms. Holmes: So the environmental laws do -- the Federal environmental laws or State
environmental laws do --
Ms. Mendez: Everything has to be completed
Ms. Holmes: -- so it does meet certain -- okay, all right, thank you.
Ms. Mendez: Thank you.
Chair Gort: Any further discussion? Anyone in the public would like to address this issue?
Seeing none, hearing none.
The Ordinance was read by title into the public record by the City Attorney.
Mr. Hannon: Roll call on item SR.2.
A roll call was taken, the result of which is stated above.
Mr. Hannon: The ordinance passes on second reading, as amended, 4-0.
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FR.1
15-01010
Department of
Finance
END OF SECOND READING ORDINANCES
FIRST READING ORDINANCES
ORDINANCE
First Reading
AN ORDINANCE OF THE MIAMI CITY COMMISSION AMENDING CHAPTER
40/ARTICLE IV/DIVISION 2 OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF MIAMI,
FLORIDA, AS AMENDED, ENTITLED "PERSONNEL/PENSION AND
RETIREMENT PLAN CITY/OF MIAMI FIREFIGHTERS' AND POLICE
OFFICERS' RETIREMENT TRUST", TO INCLUDE CHANGES AS REQUIRED
BY THE INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE; CONTAINING A SEVERABILITY
CLAUSE, AND PROVIDING FOR AN IMMEDIATE EFFECTIVE DATE.
15-01010 Summary Form SR.pdf
15-01010 Legislation FR/SR.pdf
Motion by Commissioner Carollo, seconded by Commissioner Suarez, that this matter be
PASSED ON FIRST READING PASSED by the following vote.
Votes: Ayes: 4 - Commissioner(s) Gort, Sarnoff, Carollo and Suarez
Absent: 1 - Commissioner(s) Hardemon
Chair Gort: FR.2, Mr. Clerk.
Commissioner Sarnoff. FR.1.
Chair Gort: Oh, I'm sorry. FR.1. Sorry.
Jose Fernandez (Director): Good morning, Commissioners. Jose Fernandez, with the
Department of Finance. FR.1 is an ordinance of the Miami City Commission amending Chapter
40, Article 4, Division 2 of the Code. These changes are required in order to comply with IRS
(Internal Revenue Service) changes to the tax law, and in order for the City to maintain its
qualified status for the plan, these changes are recommended that they be made.
Chair Gort: Okay, thank you. First reading. Any discussion? Public hearing. Is anyone in the
public would like to address this issue? Seeing none, hearing none, we close the public hearing.
Commissioner Carollo: Move it.
Commissioner Suarez: Second.
Chair Gort: Moved by Commissioner Carollo. Is there a second?
Commissioner Suarez: Second.
Chair Gort: Second by Commissioner Suarez. Any discussion? Being none --
The Ordinance was read by title into the public record by the City Attorney.
Todd B. Hannon (City Clerk): Roll call on item FR.1.
A roll call was taken, the result of which is stated above.
Mr. Hannon: The ordinance passes on first reading, 4-0.
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FR.2
15-01080
Chair Gort: Thankyou.
ORDINANCE
First Reading
Office of the City AN ORDINANCE OF THE MIAMI CITY COMMISSION MAKING PROVISIONS
Clerk FOR EARLY VOTING IN THE CITY OF MIAMI, PURSUANT TO SECTION
100.3605, FLORIDA STATUTES, FOR THE GENERAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION
TO BE HELD ON NOVEMBER 3, 2015; DESIGNATING CERTAIN SITES AND
A SCHEDULE FOR EARLY VOTING; CONTAINING A SEVERABILITY
CLAUSE AND PROVIDING FOR AN IMMEDIATE EFFECTIVE DATE.
15-01080 Memo - Office of the City Clerk SR.pdf
15-01080 Legislation FR/SR.pdf
Motion by Commissioner Suarez, seconded by Commissioner Carollo, that this matter be
PASSED ON FIRST READING PASSED by the following vote.
Votes: Ayes: 4 - Commissioner(s) Gort, Sarnoff, Carollo and Suarez
Absent: 1 - Commissioner(s) Hardemon
Chair Gort: FR.2.
The Ordinance was read by title into the public record by the City Clerk.
Chair Gort: Thankyou. Public hearing. Is anyone in the public would like to address this
issue? Anyone in the public? Seeing none, hearing none, close the public hearings.
Todd B. Hannon (City Clerk): Chair, I've read the title into the record, so we will proceed to the
roll call if there is a motion.
Commissioner Suarez: So moved.
Commissioner Carollo: Second.
Chair Gort: It's been moved by Commissioner Suarez; second by Commissioner Carollo. Roll
call.
Mr. Hannon: Roll call on item FR.2.
A roll call was taken, the result of which is stated above.
Mr. Hannon: The ordinance passes on first reading, 4-0.
Chair Gort: Thankyou.
FR.3 ORDINANCE
15-00997
First Reading
District2- AN ORDINANCE OF THE MIAMI CITY COMMISSION REPEALING IN ITS
Commissioner Marc ENTIRETY CHAPTER 62/ARTICLE XIII/DIVISION 7 OF THE CODE OF THE
David Sarnoff CITY OF MIAMI, FLORIDA, AS AMENDED, ENTITLED "PLANNING AND
ZONING/ ZONING APPROVAL FOR TEMPORARY USES AND
OCCUPANCIES; PERMIT REQUIRED/OMNI MEDIA TOWER REGULATIONS";
CONTAINING A SEVERABILITY CLAUSE AND PROVIDING FOR AN
EFFECTIVE DATE.
15-00997 Legislation FR/SR.pdf
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Motion by Commissioner Sarnoff, seconded by Commissioner Suarez, that this matter be
PASSED ON FIRST READING PASSED by the following vote.
Votes: Ayes: 4 - Commissioner(s) Gort, Sarnoff, Carollo and Suarez
Absent: 1 - Commissioner(s) Hardemon
Commissioner Sarnoff Mr. Chair, FR.3 is --
Chair Gort: FR.3.
Commissioner Sarnoff -- an ordinance of the City of Miami, repealing in its entirety Chapter
62, Article 7, Division 7 of the Code, which allow for and permitted an Omni media tower. I
think this Commission has spoken with regard to the Overtown media tower. I think we did this
at a time that we were in a very different financial condition, and I'm just suggesting that we be
parallel in thought and parallel in deed, and that we repeal the media tower in the Omni.
Commissioner Suarez: Second.
Chair Gort: Been moved by Commissioner Sarnoff second by Commissioner Suarez. It's a
public hearing. Yes, sir.
Peter Ehrlich: Good morning. Thank you very much, Mr. Chairman. Peter Ehrlich, 720
Northeast 69th Street. I'm here speaking in favor of the legislation proposed by Commissioner
Sarnoff. I think it's an excellent idea to delete this media tower and its associated language from
Chapter 62. You already removed it from Miami 21. And I hope -- and Commissioner Carollo, I
think you voted against this several years ago when it came up. I hope that you will take a
strong stand against the proposed 633-foot media tower LED (Light -Emitting Diode) billboard
tower that's proposed for Northwest loth Street and your support as elected officials might be
helpful to the City Attorney as this -- as that still goes through a process. Thank you very much.
Chair Gort: Thank you. Yes, you're recognized.
Nathan Kurland: Nathan Kurland, 3132 Day Avenue, Coconut Grove. I'm very happy today
about what's happening here on the dais. Commissioner Sarnoff I would very much like to
thank you for your evolution of thought. We have tried, many of us, for years, to get our small
victories regarding visual pollution media towers, which do nothing for our quality of life. It's
an (UNINTELLIGIBLE) to all of us. This is a ordinance that we hope you'll absolutely pass.
People like Bill Briton, and Bill Pollack, and Peter Ehrlich, and Dusty Melton and I have been
fighting this battle for years. We hope that this will also perhaps spur you on to some intelligent
thought regarding advertising on walls, as Commissioner Suarez' mother once said about the
Heineken beer ad on our MRC (Miami Riverside Center), which, by the way, the contract is up in
November, and we're hoping you will not re -up that contract regarding the MRC Building.
Please vote in favor of FR.3. Thank you.
Chair Gort: Thank you. Yes, ma'am, you're recognized.
Grace Solares: Thank you. Grace Solares, 60 Southwest 30th Road. I wholly support the
introduction of this ordinance, and I congratulate you, Mr. Sarnoff, of actually being behind this;
hope you all vote in favor of it. Thank you. And I actually have to commend Scenic Miami for
having fought this issue for so many years. Thank you, Peter.
Chair Gort: Thank you, ma'am.
Renita Holmes: Madam Holmes again. It's nice to have something good to say on this one, and
for a long time, I've always come to you about environmental impact and getting information,
and I haven't made much progress. I'd like to thank those that are working on it, you know, but
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FR.4
15-00876
District 4-
Commissioner
Francis Suarez
for those of us who live Overtown, raising children Overtown, and we have to see past 1-95, get
some fresh air, you know; have to see past all the cranes and all of that. It's very considerate of
you. I think that my final vision and my children's final vision, as well as my rights to clean air,
and my right -- my aerial rights are considered in this. It's nice to see that you're thinking about
the quality of life, you know, not just the quality of a development project, and I really appreciate
it.
Chair Gort: Thankyou. Anyone else?
Elvis Cruz: Elvis Cruz, 631 Northeast 5 7th Street. Commissioners, make history, do something
wonderful. Let's have a little less outdoor advertising in our City.
Chair Gort: Thankyou. Anyone else? Anyone else? Seeing none, hearing none, close the
public hearing.
Todd B. Hannon (City Clerk): Madam City Attorney, would you like to read the title?
The Ordinance was read by title into the public record by the City Attorney.
Mr. Hannon: Roll call on item FR.3.
A roll call was taken, the result of which is stated above.
Mr. Hannon: The ordinance passes on first reading, 4-0.
Chair Gort: Thank you.
ORDINANCE
First Reading
AN ORDINANCE OF THE MIAMI CITY COMMISSION AMENDING CHAPTER
2/ARTICLE XI OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF MIAMI, FLORIDA, AS
AMENDED, ENTITLED "ADMINISTRATION/BOARDS, COMMITTEES,
COMMISSIONS," MORE PARTICULARLY BY ESTABLISHING THE CITY OF
MIAMI BEAUTIFICATION COMMITTEE TO SERVE IN AN ADVISORY
CAPACITY TO THE CITY OF MIAMI RELATING TO BEAUTIFICATION AND
LANDSCAPING PROJECTS CITYWIDE, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO
TREE PLANTINGS, MEDIAN MAINTENANCE, TRAFFIC CIRCLE
MAINTENANCE, AND OTHER SIMILAR PROJECTS; STATING THE
COMMITTEE'S PURPOSE, POWERS, DUTIES, COMPOSITION,
APPOINTMENT QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS FOR
MEMBERSHIP; PROVIDING FOR OFFICERS, RULES OF PROCEDURE,
MEETINGS, QUORUM, LEGALAND STAFF SUPPORT, ASSIGNMENT OF
PERSONNEL, WAIVERS, AND PUBLIC NOTICE; AND PROVIDING FOR AN
EFFECTIVE DATE.
15-00876 Legislation SR (v2).pdf
Motion by Commissioner Suarez, seconded by Commissioner Carollo, that this matter be
PASSED ON FIRST READING WITH MODIFICATIONS PASSED by the following vote.
Votes: Ayes: 4 - Commissioner(s) Gort, Sarnoff, Carollo and Suarez
Absent: 1 - Commissioner(s) Hardemon
Commissioner Suarez: Mr. Chair.
Chair Gort: FR.5.
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Commissioner Suarez: Mr. Chair.
Chair Gort: Yes.
Commissioner Suarez: FR.4 is an ordinance that I sponsored to create a beautification
committee. Every year when we discuss the budget, I often bring up an issue that I think is near
and dear to my heart, which is, you know, that the pride that we have in our City is based in part
on how we take care of our City. And while I have to commend the Administration, and the
Public Works director, and the Assistant City Managers for really heating those concerns, and
for improving on a year-to-year basis, I think the creation of this committee will help with things
such as planning for how certain things get developed and get built. For example, you know,
one of the projects that I'm looking at right now is Coral Way, and finding out how the median of
Coral Way can be improved in a way that's more beautiful and more sustainable, you know, all
the way down to the trees that we use for our traffic circles. I mean, I think we've gotten to a
point where we get to a very granular level with our residents to make sure that whatever traffic
circles are being built, they're being landscaped in a way that is sustainable and in a way that
they find beautiful, and so we've interacted a lot with them. But I think it makes a lot of sense to
create this committee so that we start focusing on that. I think, oftentimes, we are seen as not as
good as Coral Gables, and that bothers me, to be completely frank with you. You know, I think
we can be and should be better, and if you look at our parks, and we were -- all of us, many of us
who are here today were in a homeowners association meeting at Coral Gate Park for
homeowners association meeting on this week, and it's a beautiful facility that I think compares
favorably with any facility, you know, in Coral Gables. So this is something that I have been
wanting to do for a while, and wanting to get the City and our government to focus on, and it's
starting to happen as our resources are becoming more and more available. So with that, I move
FR.4.
Commissioner Carollo: Second. Discussion.
Chair Gort: Been moved and second. And you're recognized, Commissioner Carollo.
Commissioner Carollo: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. And I think that this could be a good idea,
and the reason why I say "could be" is because it's my understanding that we actually had an
ecology and beautification committee that sunsetted, and was abolished by this Commission back
in 2012.
Commissioner Suarez: 'Eight, I think.
Commissioner Carollo: So the bottom line is thatl believe that, you know, if we're going to
establish this once again that it needs to be active. It needs to be a committee that just doesn't
become inactive and doesn't get involved. At the same time, the only caveat that I have with this
is would it hold certain projects up and so forth, because I don't really know what will be the
requirements. I mean, I would always like to have a committee that we could bounce ideas off of
and --
Commissioner Suarez: Exactly.
Commissioner Carollo: -- send, you know -- like, for instance, while you're mentioning Coral
Way, the Coral Way median -- send, you know, that issue to them and say, "Hey, listen, can you
look into this? Can you think about this?" and so forth. But what I would not want is for them
to hold up certain projects, or that, "Oh, it hasn't gone through this advisory committee, so
therefore, we can't move forward," and so forth. But, I mean, other than that, I mean, I'm in
favor of it.
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Commissioner Suarez: Thank you. Mr. Chair, if I may?
Chair Gort: Let me tell you, I think it's a great idea. Anything that we can do to improve our
neighborhood, it's great. But at the same time, as we know, we are going through CIP (Capital
Improvements Program), the problems -- the process that CIP has to go through in order to get
anything done. I don't want to see another obstacle to have it done.
Commissioner Suarez: We're in agreement.
Chair Gort: So I'd like to see a plan, how is it going to work, who is going to be in it. I know -- I
read who's going to be in it, but I want to see how it's going to be working, because a lot of the
problems that we've had, we've have a lot of boards that they don't have quorum.
Commissioner Suarez: Right.
Chair Gort: And then they postpone it to the following month. And not only the projects of the
City of Miami we've been working on for so long and for so many years, we need them to
implement this so people can see the benefit within the neighborhoods. So this is something on
second reading I would really like to see it with a specific use and how it's going to be used.
Commissioner Suarez: Mr. Chair, if may, just real quick?
Chair Gort: Sure, go ahead.
Commissioner Suarez: First of all, part of the reason why I created this was because -- and I
think you all can agree -- our neighborhoods are changing rapidly. And what's happening is --
and we've gone to many meetings together, sunshine meet -- you know, we've obviously noticed
them for sunshine purposes -- and our residents or our new residents who are moving in are
asking for us, you know, to help us get more involved, and so that's part of it. But the second
part is I totally agree with both of you that -- and I would ask the City Attorney, like you just
said, you know, between first and second reading, to make sure that this does not become
something that holds up any of our Capital Improvement projects, but is sort of advisory, and lets
us, you know, input on landscaping and things of that nature that will certainly make the projects
more beautiful, more sustainable, easier to maintain, and ultimately, you know, emphasize
something that I think is important, and I do think that there'll be quorum. Go ahead.
Commissioner Carollo: Mr. Chairman.
Chair Gort: Yes, sir.
Commissioner Carollo: Commissioner Suarez, I apologize. I forgot. I would like to propose a
friendly amendment.
Commissioner Suarez: Sure.
Commissioner Carollo: In Sub -Section `B, " you have here the terms of office --
Commissioner Suarez: Yes.
Commissioner Carollo: -- so it will be one year or until the nominating Commissioner or Mayor
leaves office. I think you need to include there the Manager, until the Manager leaves office, too,
because --
Commissioner Suarez: Yeah, because they have an appointment.
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Commissioner Carollo: -- they have an appointment.
Commissioner Suarez: That makes sense.
Commissioner Carollo: So if -- that's a friendly amendment?
Commissioner Suarez: Yeah, yeah, I would agree with that. I think that's a scrivener's error.
Commissioner Carollo: So adding the Manager, too --
Commissioner Suarez: Yeah, yeah.
Commissioner Carollo: -- because he has -- also has an appointment.
Commissioner Suarez: Agreed.
Chair Gort: Thank you.
Victoria Mendez (City Attorney): And Commissioner Suarez, you had already noted to us that
you didn't want this to be a hindrance --
Commissioner Suarez: Yes.
Ms. Mendez: -- so it does say, "to serve in an advisory capacity," but we'll make sure that, you
know, if there's any time constraints and what have you that --
Commissioner Suarez: It's a legitimate concern.
Ms. Mendez: Okay.
Commissioner Suarez: I think it's a legitimate concern. We don't want to do anything to slow
things down.
Commissioner Carollo: Right.
Chair Gort: Yes, ma'am, you're recognized.
Grace Solares: Thank you, Mr. Chair. Grace Solares. Commissioner Suarez, I think this is a
great idea. Great idea, because the City does have good ideas sometimes, but they don't follow
up on it. Like, for example, in the Roads, I have complained that, you know, they created the
circles, but they did not put any irrigation.
Commissioner Suarez: Right.
Ms. Solares: So the plants dry, and it's just terrible, and they're calling and complaining that,
"Look at those circles. They look like" -- so I think something like this would be very, very good,
so you can have the people's input --
Commissioner Suarez: Right.
Ms. Solares: -- into what the City is doing or has done in the past to make it better. So I
congratulate you.
Commissioner Suarez: Thank you.
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Ms. Solares: Thank you.
Commissioner Suarez: Thank you.
Chair Gort: Thank you, ma'am.
Renita Holmes: I know a woman's never satisfied but when it comes -- Madam Holmes again,
on behalf of the women in the community. I've watched throughout years neighborhoods
beautify themselves in landscaping. And being a subcontractor that hired boys for green
landscaping, and trained them, and still utilizing them and putting them to work; hiring mothers
that basically, all they did was when they were in incarcerated was do planting. So I've got a
qualified workforce. But what I recognize is a gap in the participation of poor communities, you
know. I've got Latino and I've got black families that been living in the ghetto for so long, and
we don't have no beautification. If we do, the plants do die right away, because there's no water
in it. But then I think that representation -- if you was to put some of us on boards, we'd be there.
You wouldn't have a problem with a quorum. So my question is: Are we going to be included?
Are the poorest communities, where there is slum and blight, that really need this, going to be
included? Are there going to be icons and representatives? Please appoint some women to this
board. Well be glad to go out there and do the flowering our self. But I'm recognizing some
biasness. I'm concerned, but I'm glad that you're doing this, Commissioner Suarez. And I've
seen your efforts, Commissioner Carollo, through the Chair. But I'm asking the City Manager,
in the appointment, we need to have more community -based folks. We need to have more women,
more industry -based local folks, middle income folks; not just guys with suits on, talking about
beautification. And I would like to see -- some of that million dollar art that I seen coming down
here on the bus -- I'd like to see that in Liberty City. I've got some great arts. I'm just wondering
why you could put million dollar art in Omni, and in Coral Gables and every -- but you can't put
none in Liberty City and Overtown. I mean, in the ghetto part of it, because that's where I come
from, and ghetto has nothing to do with my like for quality of life, my need for quality of life. I
think it's done from a management point. If you appoint caring, concerned citizens, caring,
concerned citizens will go. And women are more caring when it comes to beautification right
now. I just want you to look at the disparity in the appointments, who's appointing what type of
woman, even, because if she got on a suit, please don't send her to that committee to talk about
beauting the ghetto. Thank you.
Chair Gort: Anyone else? Public hearing is closed.
Commissioner Sarnoff It's an ordinance.
The Ordinance was read by title into the public record by the City Attorney.
Todd B. Hannon (City Clerk): Roll call on item FR.4.
A roll call was taken, the result of which is stated above.
Mr. Hannon: The ordinance passes on first reading, as amended, 4-0.
FR.5 ORDINANCE First Reading
15-01126
District 4- AN ORDINANCE OF THE MIAMI CITY COMMISSION AMENDING CHAPTER
Commissioner 35, OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF MIAMI, FLORIDA, AS AMENDED,
Francis Suarez ENTITLED "MOTOR VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC", MORE PARTICULARLY BY
CREATING A NEW SECTION VII, ENTITLED "TRANSPORTATION TRUST
FUND", FOR THE PURPOSE OF CREATING A DEDICATED SOURCE OF
REVENUE FOR TRANSPORTATION ALTERNATIVES; CONTAINING A
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SEVERABILITY CLAUSE, AND PROVIDING FOR AN IMMEDIATE EFFECTIVE
DATE.
15-01126 Back-up Documents FR.pdf
15-01126 Legislation FR.pdf
Motion by Commissioner Suarez, seconded by Commissioner Sarnoff, that this matter be
PASSED ON FIRST READING PASSED by the following vote.
Votes: Ayes: 4 - Commissioner(s) Gort, Sarnoff, Suarez and Hardemon
Noes: 1 - Commissioner(s) Carollo
Commissioner Suarez: Mr. Chair.
Chair Gort: Yes, sir.
Commissioner Suarez: Commissioner, would you stay for this one last item?
Commissioner Sarnoff Yeah.
Commissioner Suarez: Try to be quick. It's FR.5, which is the Transportation Trust Fund. This
is an item that I've brought for the Commission's consideration and approval. Essentially, as the
City's representative on the MPO (Metropolitan Planning Organization), and now recently the
MPO's vice chair, we've struggled with, obviously, the resources that are needed to tackle this
enormous problem, which is the problem of traffic and transit in the City of Miami. As all of you
know, because we've all worked together on this issue, we've had to put together complicated
deals; most recently, the Tri-Rail deal, which required the City and the CRA (Community
Redevelopment Agency) to partially fund a transit project. It's not the first time that it's
happened, and it's certainly not going to be the last time that it happens. And this ordinance is a
reflection of the reality that the City of Miami is incredibly dense. A lot of the density is in your
district, Commissioner, and a lot of the future density is in your district. And as we look forward
to the future, not only for ourselves and for the present-day residents of the City of Miami, but for
people like my son, and his kids, and Commissioner Carollo's daughter and her children in the
future, we really need to start planning for that future, and this is an ordinance that begins that
process. It's broken down into three parts. One of them is to receive one-time monies and peg
them to one-time expenses for capital expenditures for mass transit. The second is we know that
our trolley program is going to be operating at a deficit, and so we've expanded it, because it's a
successful program. We have 360,000 riders, but we're going to have three new lines, and we're
probably going to need another two for the Upper Eastside and for Flagami in the future. So
this begins a process of setting aside funds to make sure that that program never goes bankrupt.
And number three, a piece of legislation that's coming before the Commission, I believe, in late
September, which allows for transit -oriented developments to receive an additional 20 percent
parking reduction by paying into a parking fund, which is done in Wynwood, and is done in
Coconut Grove; and in downtown, we have zero parking requirements. So it passed 6 to 1 at the
Planning & Zoning Hearing Board, with a favorable recommendation from the Planning
Department. So this is -- you know, and I know, for example, Commissioner Carollo and
Commissioner Sarnoff both went to Denver, and were looking at solutions. And Commissioner
Carollo is also on the chamber's subcommittee on transit, so we are all sort of working together
to make sure that we, as a City, are prepared for the needs that we're going to have and that we
have currently. So with that said, I can go on, and on, and on, you know, and I'll respect your
time, Commissioner Sarnoff. I'll move the item and I request the support of the Commission.
Commissioner Sarnoff I'd like to second it and just congratulate you. I think it's a great idea.
Commissioner Suarez: Thank you.
Chair Gort: Motion and a second. Discussion.
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Commissioner Carollo: Yes, Mr. Chairman. Thank you. I'd like to begin by saying that, yes,
having a trust fund is a good idea. I think in all fairness, we actually have special revenue funds
for that, but I would like to name it a trust fund, so I think it's a good idea. Where I'm having
difficulties is in the funding sources. You know, you're -- when you spoke about your son, my
daughter, at the same time, we are sort of tying the hands of future Commissioners with regards
to putting the percentage of the general fund dollars towards that, so I have an issue with that;
especially where there's other options. You know, you have the local option gas tax that could be
used; public service tax; the half cent penny tax. So I'd rather see something in lines of those.
As a matter of fact, I'm bringing an item up for discussion for an additional impact fee on the
high-rises, and I think that money could go into this. So I don't have a problem with setting up a
trust fund. I have a problem with the funding mechanism, and so that's one. And I know that's
"B" on your --
Commissioner Suarez: Sure.
Commissioner Carollo: -- section. Even one, you know, I have a problem, you know, where
whatever monies over 500,000 we get for a lease negotiation or a re -lease negotiation, a lawsuit,
to put 20 percent right off the top into this fund, I mean, you know, you're competing with other
things. You're competing with Police, Fire, Public Works. I mean, I think it ties our hands, so I
-- you know, and I'm not saying that transportation is not important. I'm just saying that I prefer
that, you know, those monies be used as is intended, at the discretion of you know, this
Commission and the general fund, as opposed to saying, no, right off the top, this money goes to
the trust fund, and that includes public benefit. You know, one of the things that public benefit
could be used for is even affordable housing. So when 20 percent, right off the top, goes to this
trust fund, that's where I'm having an issue; the funding mechanism --
Commissioner Suarez: Yeah.
Commissioner Carollo: -- especially when there's other funding mechanism that could be used.
Commissioner Suarez: Yeah. And let me -- Mr. Chair, if may.
Chair Gort: Sure.
Commissioner Suarez: I think, you know, it's a healthy debate to have in discussion. I kind of
agree with some of the things you said, and I kind of disagree with some other things that you
said First of all, the one-time payments coming in are really something that would otherwise
supplement our reserves, so they shouldn't be used for recurring expenses, to begin with, and you
know that. So, you know, I think the idea here is we have already -- we're well reserved, and
what we need to start doing now is putting aside funds for the inevitable projects that will be
coming; whether those are local option gas tax funds -- I also have a discussion item, by the way,
on impact fees, and I've talked about creating an impact fee category, even though that's a little
bit trickier, because it may require some State law.
Chair Gort: Yeah, regulations.
Commissioner Suarez: Right. So I think what -- your discussion item actually, I thought,
dovetailed very nicely with mine, which was to create a citywide sort of impact fee area from -- at
least from the title. I can't -- you know, there's no backup, so. But, you know, I think both those
ideas dovetail nicely, and can also supplement the fund. But I think in this point, what we're
saying is, look, if -- whatever one-time dollars we get, we're making it a priority of this
government as a public policy matter that we're going to separate that for one-time expenses,
such as capital expenses, so that we don't have to be scrambling. Those revenue sources that you
mentioned, yeah, they're all there, but we don't want to be scrambling for that money the day that
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the Department of Transit, or Dade County, or the Federal Government, or all three say, "Hey,
we're ready to go. Are you shovel ready? Do you have your money?" And I think, you know, if
you recall, with the port tunnel, we had to go from a line of credit. I mean, the whole thing was a
last minute. We got to go to a commercial paper, and then, we were in the middle of an SEC
(Securities and Exchange Commission) investigation, you know. So it was very -- I felt very -- I
was worried, personally, because there's -- somebody being sued personally, as a City of Miami
employee, you know, by the SEC. So, you know, for me to say, "Hey, we just found from $8
million we were going to close out the year to $50 million, and now, we're going to issue a
bond, " that's very scary. So, you know, I think it's a -- you know, I have no problem adding
categories of funding to this legislation. I think as a policy matter, we need to be clear as a
government and say, "Look, the density is coming here, and we need to prepare for it." And in
terms of affordable housing, which is something that I've legislated to create, I'm going to be
bringing another package, probably in late September, that will bring sort of more opportunities
and funding sources. And one of the big problems with our Public Benefits Trust Fund is that
we're losing affordable housing dollars to TDR's (Transfer Development Rights), which is a great
concept, by the way. The Transfer Development Right is a great concept, but they get transferred
in the private sector. I think they're trading at like 8 or $9 a foot right now. So what happens is,
because our Public Benefits Trust Fund, it does not compete very efficiently with the TDR
process, with the exception of I think, an SAP (Special Area Plan) that's coming today, we've
had very little Public Benefit Trust funding since Miami 21 went into effect. So I thought this out
very carefully, I think. Again, I would welcome additional funding sources, but I think we should
make a clear statement to the public that we, as we continue to be well reserved as a government,
are going to make this a priority. I've discussed this with the Administration. They feel
comfortable with the legislation. They were very much involved in the creation of the legislation,
as was the City Attorneys Office, and they feel financially, it's a prudent thing; that we can
sustain it. And I do think, by the way, that when we talk about your daughter and my son that,
you know, part of our tax monies should go to this. This is a huge priority. This is, if not the
biggest, it's one of the biggest priorities in our City, if you ask anyone, the congestion, the traffic,
the development, and it's a problem today and it's going to be a problem tomorrow. It's going to
be a worse problem tomorrow if even half of what's contemplated gets built. So I do think it's a
very, very beneficial use of general fund dollars. And I'll say one last thing, and I'll close by
saying just because the money gets put in this trust fund doesn't mean it can't be taken out. It
just requires a supermajority, because we are making a public policy decision that this is an
imperative of our government, and therefore, to deplete this resource, which is incredibly
important, it requires a supermajority. So I don't think we're tying our hands that much. We're
just requiring one additional vote. You know, I think I went with you that one day where you
wanted to make it very liberal to invoke the five-day rule, for a good reason, you know. Any one
Commissioner could do it; it wasn't just, you know, a majority of the Commission or something
like that. So, you know, I think there are many instances where it makes a lot of sense to be
prudent and to make a public policy decision, and, you know, and not to deplete from those funds
unless there's an emergency or some sort of supermajority. Thank you.
Chair Gort: Let me tell you, I think we need it. All my neighborhoods, the problem is people
avoiding the traffic in the main highways. They go into our neighborhoods, and that's creating a
lot of problem within our neighborhood. But I'd like to have more in specific as possible; give
the Administration an opportunity to come up with other alternatives --
Commissioner Suarez: Sure.
Chair Gort: -- for the second reading, what we could come up with. The same time, we going to
get involved in the -- providing transportation. I'd like to see a master plan put together, so we
can really coordinate our efforts with the rest of the cities and with Miami -Dade County. You're
at the MPO, so is Commissioner Sarnoff, and I think we have to start bringing all those together.
Yes, sir.
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Commissioner Suarez: I think that's a fantastic idea, Commissioner, because up until now, what
we've done is kind of in a hodgepodge way. For example, you had a great idea with the
waterborne taxis, and we've moved on that, you know, tremendously. But you're right. I mean,
there's not a certain amount of coherence to our planning, and so I agree that from the City's
perspective, we need to be clear on what our priorities are, so I agree. Thank you.
Chair Gort: Thank you.
Commissioner Carollo: Mr. Chairman.
Chair Gort: Yes, sir.
Commissioner Carollo: Thank you. And I'm not saying that we don't make a statement that
transportation is important. I'm saying that there's funding that only has to be used for
transportation, and we should use those dollars versus general fund dollars that can be used for
anything, you know, so I disagree with the funding mechanism once again. I think it should be,
like I mentioned, local option gas tax; I mentioned public service; I mentioned the half cent that
can only be used for transportation. And I think we should be using those dollars, in addition to,
like I mentioned, a new impact fee that I -- and I guess similar to yours has as a discussion item.
At the same time, you know, I also remember a few years back where when we needed fire
engines, when we needed police cars, those purchases were deferred, because we didn't have the
monies. And, yes, these one-time payments can be used to purchase fire engines, police cars,
police equipment, fire equipment. So I don't think that we should be handcuffed to actually 20
percent of any type of litigation settlement going to transit. I think we should have the option,
especially when there's, once again, other funding sources that just goes directly towards
transportation and we have to use for transportation, and I don't mind that going to the trust
fund.
Chair Gort: Yes, sir, you're recognized.
Commissioner Suarez: No, I was going to say very quickly that our PTP (People's
Transportation Plan) money is dedicated transportation, but per the reason why there's a "B" in
this section is because our PTP money is going to run out, and we know that; that's not a
mystery. We know that if we had only operated three lines from our trolleys, it would have run
out in 2021; with the six lines, it's going to run out in 2017. When we do eight lines, it's going to
run out like next year. So the reason why we're doing this is because the PTP money is not
sufficient; if it were su icient, we wouldn't need to do that. So that's --
Chair Gort: That's why I'd like to see an analysis --
Commissioner Suarez: Right.
Chair Gort: -- from a professional. They -- maybe they can coordinate and we might do the
same service without having eight; having less.
Commissioner Suarez: Yeah. And the second part is we have 80 percent of those dollars that we
can use for those capital needs.
Chair Gort: Commissioner Sarnoff, you're recognized.
Commissioner Sarnoff So ordinarily, I would agree with Commissioner Carollo. I'm not a guy
that likes to tie the hands of government. But in sitting here for nine years and sitting with you
for, I think, six or five of those nine years, we allowed the downtown and Brickell to grow. I
always called Brickell "the Lower Eastside of Manhattan," because you could live, work, play
pretty readily there, and downtown is growing up in its own right. All Aboard Florida, you all
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know what's going on. And you're going to receive the tax revenues for that on a citywide basis.
County's going to receive its revenues on a countywide basis. And you need to provide those
folks the ability to move around this City in a coherent manner. So while I would generally say I
agree with Commissioner Carollo, the amount of money you're dedicating, it's more a
philosophical statement of saying -- here's what I think you're saying, and forgive me for putting
words in your mouth. I sit on a board that is largely dysfunctional called the MPO. I've tried to
fix that board with a coherent plan that has gone nowhere thus far. That is the primary
determiner of transit in our South Florida region. They actually stayed out of one of the largest,
most expansive transportation plans that we've come up with, which you said earlier ago, which
was Tri-Rail. They had nothing to do with Tri-Rail. We, as the City, fashioned a remedy to
create a Grand Central Station that I will bet you could rival New York's in 30 years. And if you
looked up how Grand Central was formed in New York, the same opposition people, saying the
same things as what we heard here today: Not our choice, not our -- not the City, we shouldn't
be doing it. So you've actually moved me from a general policy statement of "I hate trust funds;
I hate having trusts and holding money there" to saying, "No, this is such an important matter to
the City that it's so important that I will not leave this in the hands of County Commissioners,
because they have never shown that they understand or are willing to do what's necessary for
mass transportation."
Commissioner Suarez: And I'll go a step further and say -- just real quick, Mr. Chair -- I've been
on that board, as you said, for a while, and I've heard the debate, and what ultimately ends up
happening oftentimes is there's a debate about resources, and what goes first and what doesn't
go first. And I'm anticipating the day -- I'm doing something that this government rarely does,
which is think about the future, and plan for the future, and anticipate tomorrow. I'm
anticipating a day where the -- where anybody, whether it's the County Commission, FDOT
(Federal Department of Transportation), the Federal Government, or a combination thereof
says, "What projects are ready to go?"
Chair Gort: Matching funds.
Commissioner Suarez: Right. And when we say, "Hey, we're ready, we're here, we've been
planning for this, we have the money, we can cut a check, " we go to the top of the line. And that
is how our interests get and our residents get served quicker, and I think that's a big part of this,
as well.
Commissioner Carollo: Mr. Chairman.
Chair Gort: Yes, sir.
Commissioner Carollo: Real quick. And, Commissioner Sarnoff, I -- first of all, I'm not going to
pick on any County Commissioners, and I could tell you that, listen, I'm onboard with having a
trust fund. I'm just saying the funding mechanism, especially when there is specific revenues that
are specific for transportation. You cannot use it for anything else. You need to use it for
revenues. I'm saying, let's tap into those prior to tapping into the general fund, because right
now, from -- with our current budget or proposed budget, we're looking at, you know, $1.5
million. Now, today, $1.5 million, hey, the City is doing good, it may not be that big of a deal;
however, you mentioned that in contract negotiations, maybe $1.5 is a big deal, but we'll leave
that aside. So today, maybe $1.5 million is not that big deal, but if you remember, a few years
back, when you and I -- well, most of us, except Commissioner Hardemon -- sat here. 1.5 million
was a huge deal, okay? And there was decisions -- and I've heard even you mention today,
"Well, at that time, we made that decision because of the financial conditions that the City was
in," okay? Well, now, we're making this decision because, yeah, $1.5 million is not that big, but
remember, this is cyclical, and there's going to come a time where, once again, it might be the
downturn, and 1.5 million may be very important. And what I'm saying is, do not tie our hands,
especially when there's other funding mechanisms that is just for transportation, and let's use
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those as opposed to the general fund.
Commissioner Sarnoff Can I just debate that?
Chair Gort: Yes, go ahead.
Commissioner Sarnoff So I understand what you're saying, Commissioner, but what I would
respond is twofold. First is -- let me go to the back part of the argument. Nobody up here has
ever said, "Oh, wow, that's way too much density. I can't believe you're building that building.
You've gladly allowed Brickell to densify (sic); you've gladly allowed downtown to flourish.
We've gladly accepted their tax revenues. And to those folks, they're probably -- one of their -- I
think their two biggest issues happen to be, I think, policing, which we'll get to today and I think
the ability to get around in this City. And they're not going to car their way out of this, so I
would say to you, you gladly accepted their general revenue dollars, and this would be a big
put -back to them. And the second thing is, is you know PTP, local options gas tax, we pretty
much pledged those things out, and we have, and I've been up here long enough to know that we
have. And all he is suggesting is that $1.5 million from -- there are going to be 18,000 new
residents; 18,000 new residents next year in downtown. You're going to tax 18,000 new
residents. I think the least you could do is dedicate a small stream of income -- a small stream of
revenue, I should say -- toward resolving a primary issue.
Commissioner Suarez: Mr. Chair, ifI may?
Chair Gort: Let me tell you. Let me speak a little bit. Not only the amount of people that have
problem in downtown, but I can tell you, all our neighborhoods, I can tell you the biggest
complaint that we have, I have people having problem getting home because of the traffic and
the density of traffic that we have through the City street. So, yes, we need to get involved.
Commissioner Suarez: Mr. Chair, if I may? You know, this is an ordinance. If we -- we can
always change it, and by less votes than it actually takes to deplete the fund. So, I mean, if we
ever got to a point --
Chair Gort: Let me make a suggestion to help the debate.
Commissioner Suarez: Thank you.
Chair Gort: Made a suggestion to ask the Administration if they can come up for the second
reading with different alternatives. We'll look at it, and then we'll vote on it.
Commissioner Suarez: Thank you.
Commissioner Carollo: Mr. Chairman?
Chair Gort: Yes, sir.
Commissioner Carollo: And, by the way, Commissioner Sarnoff, I agree with you that we should
give some alleviation or -- I'm just saying we're using the wrong funding source. So I'm not
saying don't create this. This is about -- I'm not saying that. What I'm saying is the funding
source, so I'm agreeing with you. I'm just saying, listen, there's other funding sources --
Commissioner Sarnoff So --
Commissioner Carollo: -- but not necessarily the general funding.
Commissioner Sarnoff -- let's do this: So let's pass it on first reading --
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Chair Gort: That's fine.
Commissioner Sarnoff Wait, wait. And I'd love to hear the Administration show how tapped out
we are, or are we tapping out; local actions gas tax, PTP --
Commissioner Carollo: Public service taxes.
Commissioner Sarnoff -- PS -- right, same thing. And let's do some projections. You're great at
projections; you're an accountant. Let's project it out. Let's see what the delta is from what
we're using now, what we've used in the past, because I candidly think most of our -- I remember
we bonded that money, the local options, for our street repairs. You know, someday, this
Commission -- and maybe this is good, because this is one of my -- going to be -- I'm going to
have a bunch of parting thoughts. You all have sat up here at the very end of a bond, and that
bond -- you'll never fix this City through operations. You will only fix this City through a
mortgage. Now, how well you think that out, how much you think that out is for this next august
body to do. But you will never fix and repair this City to the extent that it needs through
operation dollars; you'll only do it through bond dollars.
Chair Gort: Yes, sir.
Vice Chair Hardemon: Thank you very much. I appreciate all of the discussion that's been
going on about this. I mean, it's clear that we have a transportation issue within Miami -Dade
County. It's unfortunate that because we have so much traffic flowing through Miami -Dade
County that we suffer in the City of Miami, but we are the largest city within Miami -Dade
County, so, I mean, I guess that's one of our woes that we have to accept. And I'll let you know
my thoughts briefly. My thoughts are, one: That you create a trust fund that's meant for these
types of transportation issues, and people will come for that money. It's sort of that if you build
it, they will come, and that's one of the thoughts that I had about it. We're taking dollars, say
that they may not be earmarked for something, and we're earmarking it for something, so it will
be spent. And the question then becomes: What type of mass transit do we go about
implementing? And I'm sure we have lots of ideas, because you've talked about the MPO; you
two sit on it. And not only has it been discussed, but we've talked about the bay link and other
things, and I'm sure that these dollars could somehow find their way to help that type of transit.
When I hear "mass transit, " I think about train. I think about things that really move lots of
people at one time; things that change the paradigm as far as how we carry our citizens from
one place to another, and so a large amount of money will be needed to make that type of thing
happen; and of course, we need partners to do that. One of the things that concerns me as it is
written today, for instance, is that some of the dollars that are being taken are taken from the
Public Benefits Trust Fund, and we know that the Public Benefits Trust Fund, it's used for
affordable housing, workforce housing, things of that nature. And if there is an account that has
been raided more -- or upset more, rather -- I think it's the Public Benefits Trust Fund. When
there were things that came about that, I think, were absolutely necessary. The Transfer
Development Rights, absolutely necessary, a great idea, they changed the boulevard, but they
also put us in a position where some benefits that were typically going to the Public Benefits
Trust Fund, that we could use for affordable housing are being taken away. Now, we know that
affordable housing, poverty, all these things matter to us in the City of Miami, but continuously,
we create mechanisms in which we take away from our ability to assist that. And so one of the
things that I see is that that, to me, is unacceptable. Taking money from that pot of money is
unacceptable. I hear all concerns. I see everyone's point of view, and I know that -- I know what
I'm facing when I get on the expressway and I drive. And I made myself in a position where I
had to walk to and from work, so I didn't have to deal with it for a few years, until I started to be
a Commissioner, and so I really understand those pangs. We need to be able to have dollars that
we can use. How we go about doing it, I think is a good solution. Is it the best? I don't know. I
know that -- I do know, though, that without removing the Public Benefits Trust Fund section of
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it, it's not good.
Commissioner Suarez: Mr. Chair, ifI may?
Chair Gort: Yes.
Commissioner Suarez: Let me just say that I sort of agree with both the sentiments, you know,
specifically with respect to the Public Benefits Affordable Housing Fund, so what I'm going to do
is I'm going to respectfully ask your support on first reading, and then we'll work with the
Administration to carve that out of the funding source, because I think -- you know, I agree that
the intent is not to raid sort of one very crucial need in our City, which is affordable housing, to
pay for another crucial need in our City, which is transit. So I think it makes sense not to impact
Public Benefits Affordable House Trust Fund money to fund this fund, so I think that's a very
good revision that both of you, I think, have, you know, obviously come up with and that I agree
with, because I'm going to be bringing another package. And speaking to what you mentioned,
which I agree with, that there is a huge inequity with the TDR's, and part of the reason why our
Public Benefits Trust Fund is not funded for affordable housing is because of Miami 21, we're
losing in the battle of that open market, if you will, and so I'm going to be bringing a piece of
legislation that tries to rebalance that so that people choose us versus buying in the open market;
not that there's anything wrong with buying in the open market. And I think, like you said, the
concept is a great concept to preserve, you know, historic properties in the City of Miami under
Miami 21, but it shouldn't be at the cost of you know, Affordable Housing Trust Fund dollars in
the City. So I agree with you, and so I would respectfully ask, if you don't mind, passing it on
first, and I -- you have my assurance that I will work with the Administration to bring it back
with that exception.
Chair Gort: My suggestion, any --
Commissioner Carollo: Getting better.
Commissioner Suarez: Yeah.
Chair Gort: -- ideas, suggestions you all have, make sure you pass it on to Administration, so
when it comes to the second reading, we can do that. Yes, ma'am.
Renita Holmes: Madam Holmes again, and I'm glad to see you, Commissioner Hardemon.
What brings to me in mind the general public and just -- you know, I know this is not a public
hearing, this is your first reading -- when I thought about Wynwood, and I know this is not --
when I saw that, you know, there was money being taken, Miami 21, the parking, and already, I
got these kids sitting adjacent to the Design District, which I don't know how it became Wynwood
-- anyway, that's not the argument, but what -- affordable housing eventually is the end, and
when I saw that we had Poverty Initiative revenues and we didn't quite get it, or we haven't quite
get it yet; then we got the Police Trust Fund, and running by my house in Overtown, I got all
these corporate runners, and got thousands of police officers from every district, so there goes
that money. And then I saw that FDOT was coming through, and that the boundaries that they
wanted was from FDOT -- this is a citizen's perspective -- and the railroad on the other side, and
I see all these people with money, got money, getting public land and they getting revenues, and
I ain't got it yet; but yet, my kids are sitting here, watching them, ducking cars from events that
they're having. So when I see trust funds, you know, how they're utilized, you know, and then I
see the County giving the municipality the right to create its own spaces and transportation --
now, it's another bill I won't get into detail for now. So I'm concerned at public benefits. We
need to restore that, but when I saw the Earlington Heights Project come about at the County,
where they were utilizing CDBG (Community Development Block Grant) funds to create this
transportation line thing, when, really, it was just the City on one side, and the County was on
side, but yet, there was this big circle that included the bonding for the school, and I'm going
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like, "Well, money plus money get money, but money in the name of us gets nothing." So I
would appreciate that analysis as to what -- and if it wasn't for the trust -- the County put behind
it, "In God we trust." All of a sudden now, I got "In God we trust" behind me. Okay.
Chair Gort: Thank you.
Ms. Holmes: My children getting ran over. Miami 21 -- I mean Wynwood's getting 50 grand out
of Public Benefits Trust. I don't know. I think that's a fine example of the communications that
I'm getting from them, you know, the hearings that I'm attending from them, and I'm seeing you
doing your best at the MPO, but we have to pay attention, because we're the ones -- the poorest
ones hardly ever get the revenues and the trust, and it really is about housing. You could say it's
transportation --
Chair Gort: Thank you.
Ms. Holmes: -- you could say it's arts, you could say it's entertainment, but we don't.
Chair Gort: Thank you.
Ms. Holmes: So I'm just asking in the creation of these boards that we do have a thorough
process, that we set limits and boundaries, and if anything, put money back for the poor folks.
Chair Gort: Thank you, ma'am, thank you.
Ms. Holmes: Put it back.
Chair Gort: Thank you. Yes, ma'am.
Grace Solares: Grace Solares, 60 Southwest 30th Road. I first read about this Commissioner
Suarez, on the Daily Business Review, and I supported it wholeheartedly. Philosophically, we
agree on this issue. It was when I read in the Daily Business Review that it was 20 percent from
the impact fees, I went, "Whoa, no."
Commissioner Suarez: Yeah. Right.
Ms. Solares: That cannot be. And we had a problem --
Commissioner Suarez: Sure, sure.
Ms. Solares: I had a problem with that.
Commissioner Suarez: Right.
Ms. Solares: But you and I spoke about it. I think it's a very good idea for you to actually bring
this up. We need something done.
Commissioner Suarez: Thank you.
Ms. Solares: But there is no question in the world that we need to know where the funds are
going to be coming from. It's extraordinarily important. I also heard you say here that in case of
an emergency, the trust could be raided.
Commissioner Suarez: Have to be.
Ms. Solares: I think in the final legislation, you have to have the specific emergencies.
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Commissioner Suarez: Yeah.
Ms. Solares: Because anybody can actually have different emergencies.
Commissioner Suarez: Sure.
Ms. Solares: Have to be specific. You have to specify the emergencies in there. Also, I don't
think it should be the four -fifths. I think it should be the five -five.
Commissioner Suarez: I think you'd have a problem with that.
Ms. Solares: I think it should be the five -five.
Commissioner Suarez: Right.
Ms. Solares: It's an extraordinarily important, because you may have --
Commissioner Suarez: Listen.
Ms. Solares: -- millions and millions in that account.
Commissioner Suarez: I support that. The problem with that is I don't think there are many
votes that we have to take --
Chair Gort: Commissioner, why don't we let them finish.
Commissioner Suarez: Yeah, I'm sorry.
Chair Gort: Go ahead, ma'am.
Ms. Solares: Just suggestions. Also, another suggestion that I was thinking is that since there's
many of you with different ideas as to where the money should come from that this matter should
have -- or your idea of the trust should have a sunshine meeting in between first and second --
Commissioner Suarez: I'd be more than happy to do that.
Ms. Solares: -- so that you come and Commissioner Carollo comes with ideas of the funding
sources, and there, you can actually discuss them. And when it comes to the second reading, you
know more or less whether you're going to get it; because, otherwise, we're going to have this
madness at the second reading, and it's not going to go well.
Chair Gort: Thank you, ma'am.
Ms. Solares: Thank you, Commissioner. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. So thank you.
Commissioner Suarez: Thank you.
Chair Gort: Thank you. Anyone else? Seeing none, hearing none, close the public hearing.
Commissioner Suarez: I moved it, I believe, yeah.
Todd B. Hannon (City Clerk): Madam City Attorney?
Commissioner Suarez: And it's been seconded.
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The Ordinance was read by title into the public record by the City Attorney.
Mr. Hannon: Roll call on item FR.5. Vice Chair Hardemon.
Vice Chair Hardemon: For.
Mr. Hannon: Commissioner Carollo.
Commissioner Carollo: No, because of the funding mechanism.
Mr. Hannon: Commissioner Sarnoff.
Commissioner Sarnoff Yes.
Mr. Hannon: Commissioner Suarez.
Commissioner Suarez: Yes. Can I just say one thing real quick? Just -- I'm going to bring it
back, as I promised, with an exclusion for the Public Benefits Trust funds that are for affordable
housing, but I do want to put something in your mind, Commissioner Hardemon. You made a
very compelling argument, and I agreed with it -- and I think we all did obviously, because we
funded it -- that part of crime is not just crime; it's not just more officers; it's not just -- you
know, it's also attacking the root of crime, which is poverty. And so I would suggest part of
affordable housing is not just housing; it's getting people to and from their home. Just something
to put in your mind.
Vice Chair Hardemon: Oh, no, that's -- you're absolutely right, Mr. Chairman [sic]. I mean,
that was part of the argument that we talked about.
Commissioner Suarez: Right.
Vice Chair Hardemon: You have to be able to give people reliable transportation at an
affordable cost in order for them to be able to afford to live in a city like Miami.
Commissioner Suarez: But I'm just saying, I'm trying to put a little bit of a slight twist. I'm
going to bring it back, as I promised, because that's what I promised to do, but I want to maybe
have that debate a little bit, as well, because -- you know, for example, when we look at the MDX
(Miami -Dade Expressway) toll hikes, right? If you are a -- and you know more about wages than
any Commissioner I've ever met here. If you are a minimum wage or even living wage employee
in the City of Miami or anywhere in Dade County and you got to pay those tolls to get to and
from work, that's your first hour of work; maybe your first and your second hour of work that
you are spending in gas and in tolls, just to get to and from work, aside from the time that it takes
you. So I just want to put sort of the continuum of care, if you will, sort of argument in your
mind that part of affordable housing is providing affordable transportation; just putting it in
your mind.
Chair Gort: Thank you.
Mr. Hannon: Continuing with the roll call for item FR.5. Chair Gort.
Chair Gort: Yes.
Mr. Hannon: The ordinance passes on first reading, 4-1.
Chair Gort: Thank you.
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Victoria Mendez (City Attorney): Commissioner Suarez, I just wanted to confirm, because since
we're going to be having some changes between first and second reading, and I think some
studies or questions have been asked, how long are you going to give us to do this?
Commissioner Suarez: I would say maybe --
Ms. Mendez: I was hoping a month.
Commissioner Suarez: Yeah; first meeting, I think, of October. I know that some of this is
incorporated in our budget, and I know some of this is also -- it's going to be corning, I think, in
September, which is the parking waiver exemption and small building parking exemptions that
were already -- so that -- they're sort of working on a parallel course; but, yeah, in terms of this
legislation, I don't have a problem bringing it the first meeting of October if that's okay with
everybody.
Ms. Mendez: The first or second?
Commissioner Suarez: That gives us the time to --
Chair Gort: I think you need a little more time than --
Daniel J. Alfonso (City Manager): Yeah.
Ms. Mendez: Can we have the second, or it's too far away?
Mr. Alfonso: I mean, there was even a discussion of a --
Commissioner Suarez: I'm okay with that.
Mr. Alfonso: -- sunshine meeting and all that to happen or --
Commissioner Suarez: Yeah, I'm okay with that. I'm okay with the second meeting in October.
Ms. Mendez: Thank you so much.
Commissioner Suarez: Yeah. Thank you.
END OF FIRST READING ORDINANCES
RESOLUTIONS
RE.1 RESOLUTION
15-00754
Department of Solid A RESOLUTION OF THE MIAMI CITY COMMISSION, WITH
Waste ATTACHMENT(S), ACCEPTING THE PROPOSALS RECEIVED JUNE 8, 2015,
FROM VARIOUS PROPOSERS AS IDENTIFIED IN "EXHIBIT A", ATTACHED
AND INCORPORATED, PURSUANT TO REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS
("RFQ") NO. 495344, FOR COMMERCIAL SOLID WASTE HAULING
SERVICES WITHIN THE CITY OF MIAMI; AUTHORIZING THE CITY
MANAGER TO EXECUTE NON-EXCLUSIVE COMMERCIAL SOLID WASTE
FRANCHISE AGREEMENTS, IN SUBSTANTIALLY THE ATTACHED FORM,
WITH THE QUALIFIED PROPOSERS FOR SAID SERVICES, FOR AN INITIAL
CONTRACT PERIOD OF FIVE (5) YEARS, WITH THE OPTION TO RENEW
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Meeting Minutes September 10, 2015
FOR THREE (3) ADDITIONAL ONE (1) YEAR PERIODS; FURTHER
AUTHORIZING IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE RFQ, THE ABILITY TO ADD
QUALIFIED FIRMS TO THE CONTRACT WHEN DEEMED IN THE BEST
INTEREST OF THE CITY OF MIAMI WITHOUT FURTHER CITY
COMMISSION AUTHORIZATION.
15-00754 Summary Form.pdf
15-00754 Memo - Manager's Approval.pdf
15-00754 Corporate Detail.pdf
15-00754 Invitation for Bid.pdf
15-00754 Legislation.pdf
15-00754 Exhibit A.pdf
Motion by Commissioner Sarnoff, seconded by Commissioner Suarez, that this matter be
DEFERRED PASSED by the following vote.
Votes: Ayes: 3 - Commissioner(s) Gort, Sarnoff and Suarez
Absent: 2 - Commissioner(s) Carollo and Hardemon
RE.2
15-01023
Department of Capital
Improvement
Programs/Transportat
ion
Note for the Record: Item RE. 1 was deferred to the November 19, 2015, Regular Commission
Meeting.
RESOLUTION
A RESOLUTION OF THE MIAMI CITY COMMISSION, WITH
ATTACHMENT(S), AUTHORIZING AN INCREASE TO THE PROFESSIONAL
SERVICES AGREEMENT ("PSA") WITH ATKINS NORTH AMERICA, INC.,
FOR THE PROVISION OF CAPITAL PROGRAM SUPPORT SERVICES, IN AN
AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $1,035,000.00, THEREBY INCREASING THE
TOTAL CONTRACT AMOUNT FROM $3,000,000.00 TO AN AMOUNT NOT TO
EXCEED $4,035,000.00; ALLOCATING FUNDS FOR SAID INCREASE FROM
THE APPROPRIATE CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS; FURTHER
AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE AMENDMENT NO. 2 TO
THE PSA, IN SUBSTANTIALLY THE ATTACHED FORM, FOR SAID
PURPOSE.
15-01023 Summary Form.pdf
15-01023 Memo - Justification.pdf
15-01023 Amendment No. 1.pdf
15-01023 Original PSA.pdf
15-01023 Pre-Legislation.pdf
15-01023 Legislation.pdf
15-01023 Exhibit - Agreement.pdf
Motion by Commissioner Sarnoff, seconded by Vice Chair Hardemon, that this matter be
ADOPTED PASSED by the following vote.
Votes: Ayes: 4 - Commissioner(s) Gort, Sarnoff, Carollo and Hardemon
Absent: 1 - Commissioner(s) Suarez
R-15-0363
Chair Gort: RE.2.
Jeovanny Rodriguez: Good morning, Commissioners. Jeovanny Rodriguez, director of Capital
Improvements & Transportation. RE.2 is a resolution authorizing the City Manager to review
and approve Amendment Number 2 to the Professional Service Agreement with Atkins North
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Meeting Minutes September 10, 2015
RE.3
15-01001
Department of Capital
Improvement
Programs/Transportat
ion
America for capital support services, and increasing the contract value by $1, 035, 000, bringing
the total value of this contract to 4, 035, 000.
Commissioner Suarez: So move.
Chair Gort: Thank you. Did I get a motion?
Vice Chair Hardemon: Second.
Commissioner Suarez: So move.
Vice Chair Hardemon: Second.
Chair Gort: Moved by Commissioner Sarnoff second by Commissioner -- Vice Chairman
Hardemon. Any further discussion? Being none --
Commissioner Carollo: Yeah, a quick question. How many more times are we going to move the
cap?
Mr. Rodriguez: Commissioner, this contract is a two-year contract with two-year extensions --
one-year extension periods. We are now in the first of that one-year extension period. In April,
on next April, we'll be entering the last extension period for that contract. The amount that we
have an increase right now would basically take us all the way to this coming April, so for the
next year, if we do choose to extend this contract one more year, I will have to come back to
Commission for an additional increase.
Commissioner Carollo: Okay.
Chair Gort: Okay. All in favor, state it by saying "aye. "
The Commission (Collectively): Aye.
RESOLUTION
A RESOLUTION OF THE MIAMI CITY COMMISSION, WITH
ATTACHMENT(S), AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE A
COVENANT RUNNING WITH THE LAND IN FAVOR OF MIAMI-DADE
COUNTY, IN SUBSTANTIALLY THE ATTACHED FORM, AS PART OF THE
MIAMI-DADE COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF REGULATORY AND ECONOMIC
RESOURCES APPROVAL OF A NO FURTHER ACTION WITH CONDITIONS
CLOSURE OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL REMEDIATION ACTIVITIES IN
CONNECTION TO MERRIE CHRISTMAS PARK, LOCATED AT FOLIO
NUMBER 01-4129-000-0150, WHICH REQUIRES BOTH INSTITUTIONAL
AND ENGINEERING CONTROL PURSUANT TO THE RISK BASED
CORRECTIVE ACTION PROVISION OF SECTION 24-44(2) OF THE MIAMI
DADE COUNTY CODE.
15-01001 Summary Form.pdf
15-01001 Legislation.pdf
15-01001 Exhibit - Covenant.pdf
Motion by Commissioner Sarnoff, seconded by Commissioner Carollo, that this matter be
ADOPTED PASSED by the following vote.
Votes: Ayes: 4 - Commissioner(s) Gort, Sarnoff, Carollo and Suarez
Absent: 1 - Commissioner(s) Hardemon
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Meeting Minutes September 10, 2015
R-15-0364
Direction by Commissioner Sarnoff to the City Manager for the District 2 Commissioner to be
informed of all reports issued by the Administration involving the remediation of parks located
in District 2 that are required to be filed with the Miami -Dade County Department of
Environmental Resources Management (DERM).
Chair Gort: RE.3.
Jeovanny Rodriguez (Director, Capital Improvements & Transportation): RE.3 is a resolution
authorizing the City Manager to execute a covenant running with the land in favor of
Miami -Dade County as a requirement for the final steps of the remediation process for Merrie
Christmas Park.
Commissioner Sarnoff So moved.
Chair Gort: Okay, there's been a motion by Commissioner Sarnoff.
Commissioner Carollo: Second.
Chair Gort: Second by Commissioner Carollo.
Grace Solares: Hi.
Chair Gort: Yes, ma'am.
Ms. Solares: Yes. Grace Solares. I read the legislation here, Commissioner Sarnoff, and I was
wondering whether you could make a slight amendment to it. There is -- pursuant to the
covenant, you have to -- the City has to file a monthly inspection report, and has to actually
conduct a monthly inspection, and then issue a monthly report, and then quarterly, as admission
to the DERM (Department of Environmental Resource Management), to DERM, at the County,
with respect to the four items that had to be done, which was the two feet of clean soil, the one
foot, blah, blah, blah. They need to actually do that inspection on a monthly basis. Do you think
you could put in the legislation that whenever the monthly report -- the monthly inspection and
the monthly report from the City is issued that it be sent to the Commissioner of the area, so that
the Commissioner of the area is always aware as to what's going on there. And I would suggest
further that the other Commissioners, when they do remediation in your own areas of your own
parks that you be advised on a monthly basis what's going on.
Chair Gort: Oh, I am.
Ms. Solares: Okay, good.
Chair Gort: I assure you of that.
Ms. Solares: I'm glad. Do you think you can put this in this --
Commissioner Sarnoff I don't think it's necessary for this resolution. I can tell you that I'm
advised at all times of all the statuses of the parks.
Ms. Solares: You are. But when you are not there, we don't --
Commissioner Sarnoff I would expect --
Ms. Solares: -- know whether they're going to do --
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Commissioner Sarnoff -- the next district Commissioner would -- the protocol would be the
same. I mean, I don't mind doing a separate resolution, you know, just suggesting -- and we
could have a public discussion on it -- that each Commissioner would be on a separate
resolution advised of the status of all the remediated parks.
Victoria Mendez (City Attorney): You could do that as a directive if you wish, as a separate
directive.
Commissioner Sarnoff Right.
Ms. Mendez: Right.
Commissioner Sarnoff I mean, the Manager's always done that. I mean, Merrie Christmas
Park was -- I may as well say this publicly. When the issue came up with the -- let's call it the
Fire College -- and I asked that there be a control study done, and that control study meant that
we would test randomly parks throughout our system, predominantly in District 2. We did that,
because we thought -- everybody believed, or at least those that wanted to sue the City -- that it
was the ash field that was created through aerosolic[sic] ash was where they would find higher
concentrations of arsenic and heavy metals. So we actually thought, with the prevailing winds,
we would test Peacock Park; we tested Blanche Park; we tested some swale areas; we tested
Merrie Christmas Park; various parks throughout the City of Miami system; pitched the idea that
there would be a control to find out whether aerosolic ash had landed in any of those places.
Well, as it turns out, the control worked, but it didn't determine aerosolic ash. It determined
remnant ash, which meant that someone -- could be the City of Miami; could equally have been
Coral Gables, who had its own incinerator -- had possibly -- I'm not saying definitively -- buried
remnant ash in Merrie Christmas Park; had buried remnant ash, which is just burnt ash, in
Blanche Park; and, you know, Bayfront Park has, I think, a different issue as to what it may have
buried there, and some other parks may have different issues as to what's buried there. So
ironically, the control may have worked well, in that it showed that there was no aerosolic ash;
however, there was remnant ash placed in various parks in the City of Miami system; most of
which, by the way, Ms. Solares, were at one time Koris; they were just pits. And as those pits
became filled, they subsequent, later on in time, around the '70s and '60s, became aerosolic ash
-- I'm sorry -- became parks, I should say. And I think the record should equally be clear -- I
don't even think you were alive, nor was I alive in 1940, when this generate -- when this
particular incinerator was operating. So any candidate out there suggesting that I placed this
remnant ash into these particular facilities is not only wrong, but is politics at its worst, because
I'd like to think I've always been the green Commissioner up here. I've always thought about the
environment. Some people may not agree, but going vertical is the best way to protect your
environment. You might agree with that statement; you might disagree with that statement. I
know Commissioner Carollo and I sat in on a very detailed meeting with regard to water, water
services, and vertical is the best possible way to preserve your water. It really disturbs me that
anyone would ever suggest any Commissioner -- but I'm going to say myself -- would, in any
way, shape or form, place ash anywhere in a park, and for anybody running for office to say that
person put that ash in that park, and he was the person -- I didn't say "she" -- he was the person
that removed that ash is completely contrary to the facts. Merrie Christmas Park, which is the
subject that we're talking about right here, right now, was never even going to be tested by the
City until I suggested we do some controls. The controls, candidly, were again about aerosolic
ash. Turns out we found remnant ash. I thought the record should be extremely clear on that,
because you could say whatever you want about the time I've been in office. I would never
pollute, in any way, shape or form, anyone's neighborhood, let alone my own.
Ms. Solares: Mr. --
Chair Gort: Thank you. The suggestion is -- Yes.
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Ms. Solares: Let me have a -- Mr. -- Commissioner Sarnoff, I'm not here to deal with anybody
else's issues.
Commissioner Sarnoff I understand.
Ms. Solares: The -- I am here because ifI were the elected official, I would like to see the
monthly reports.
Commissioner Sarnoff We do see them.
Ms. Solares: And the monthly reports, after whoever does them in the City, to send that -- the
chart -- that the district to be informed at all times; and every time the inspection is made, that
the results of that inspection be sent to the Commissioner's area. And since when I read the
legislation, it's silent as to that; however, there is a requirement in the backup documentation
from DERM that that be done. I wanted to make certain that District 2 is informed of that,
despite the fact that it was not in the legislation.
Commissioner Sarnoff Well, I'll make that a directive of the --
Chair Gort: Thank you.
Commissioner Sarnoff -- for this Commissioner and every further Commissioner, until the next
Commissioner changes that directive, the District 2 Commissioner should be advised of all
reporting requirements by DERM.
Chair Gort: Thank you.
Ms. Solares: All the reports made by the City that has to be filed by -- to --
Commissioner Sarnoff -- to DERM.
Ms. Solares: -- with DERM.
Commissioner Sarnoff Right.
Ms. Solares: Okay. Thank you, Commissioner.
Chair Gort: Thank you.
Ms. Solares: Thank you.
Chair Gort: Yes, ma'am.
Renita Holmes: Yes, Commissioner. Renita Holmes, for the record. I'm glad that there's a
directive when there is a right to know. I'm glad that after $3 million for consultants for any
park, let alone Merrie Park, after the park has been closed and still may have been closed, that
there be a follow-up. You know, taking the Browns field course that was funded by the Browns
Field Institute to the City of Miami for $5 million, I know 3 million of it was spent on a good
education. It's good to know what you're talking about, but I just want a right to know. For
3375 Purvis Avenue, where my kids are, and my babies, and my grandbabies that play in that
park, I want to know. Being a survivor of three generations of cancer, mothers that work over at
20th Street and 3rdAvenue, which was a orange juice factory, and a bakery factory, and now,
it's a school, I want to know. For my two cents and my three cent, I want to know, because what
goes up must come down. Aerosottle [sic] remnants, like saying first stage cancer, four stage
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cancer, makes no difference to me or us, but knowing us, for my kids, 30 years from now, when
it's chemicals that take about 30 and sometimes 40 years, I need to know. When people take soil
from one end of town and dump it in my part of town, I want to know, because I don't think you
want to know ifI had one more chance, if I knew, ifI could test kids more, if I could prevent
anything further in my family for that contamination; whether it be my family in Coconut Grove,
or my family in Overtown, or any of those other sites Browns Field Institute gave us knowledge
of But if you paid $3 million, certainly, a report is due to all of us as taxpayers on what is the
status for the next 3 million years, if it need be, because you can't cure cancer, but you sure can
ask for your money back. Thank you.
Chair Gort: Thank you, ma'am. Anyone else? Seeing none, hearing none, we close the public
hearings. Any further discussion? Hearing none, all in favor, state it by saying "aye."
The Commission (Collectively): Aye.
Chair Gort: Thank you.
RE.4 RESOLUTION
15-00986
Department of Public A RESOLUTION OF THE MIAMI CITY COMMISSION, WITH
Works ATTACHMENT(S), AUTHORIZING AND PERMITTING THE CONSTRUCTION
AND MAINTENANCE OF A SINGLE LEVEL PEDESTRIAN OVERPASS OVER
AND ACROSS NORTHWEST 6TH STREET LOCATED APPROXIMATELY 70
FEET WEST OF NORTHWEST 12TH AVENUE, MIAMI, FLORIDA, BY MIAMI
SCHOOL GROUP LLC, IN ORDER TO CONNECT THE EXISTING SPORTS
LEADERSHIP AND MANAGEMENT ("SLAM") CHARTER SCHOOL AT 604
NORTHWEST 12TH AVENUE AND THE PROPOSED SLAM II CHARTER
SCHOOL AT 542 NORTHWEST 12TH AVENUE, MIAMI, FLORIDA, WITH A
VERTICAL CLEARANCE OF APPROXIMATELY 69 FEET ABOVE THE
SURFACE OF THE STREET; CONDITIONED UPON A COVENANT RUNNING
WITH THE LAND, IN SUBSTANTIALLY THE ATTACHED FORM; PROVIDING
FOR A PROCEDURE FOR THE REMOVAL OF THE PEDESTRIAN
OVERPASS UPON BREACH; ACCEPTING A ONE-TIME USER FEE IN THE
AMOUNT OF $8,815.00; AUTHORIZING AND PERMITTING THE "SLAM!"
SCHOOL IDENTIFICATION SIGNAGE TO BE AFFIXED TO, OR
INCORPORATED INTO, THE DESIGN OF THE PEDESTRIAN OVERPASS;
FURTHER AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO ACCEPT SAID
COVENANT.
15-00986 Summary Form.pdf
15-00986 Legislation.pdf
15-00986 Exhibit- Covenant- SUB.pdf
Motion by Commissioner Carollo, seconded by Commissioner Suarez, that this matter be
ADOPTED WITH MODIFICATIONS PASSED by the following vote.
Votes: Ayes: 5 - Commissioner(s) Gort, Sarnoff, Carollo, Suarez and Hardemon
R-15-0365
Chair Gort: RE.5.
Victoria Mendez (City Attorney): RE.4.
Commissioner Carollo: RE.4.
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Chair Gort: It's 4.
Eduardo Santamaria: Good morning, Mr. Chair, Commissioners. Ed Santamaria, director of
Public Works. RE.4 is a resolution approving and permitting a pedestrian overpass over
Northwest 6th Street, west of Northwest 12th Avenue, to connect the Slam Charter Schools, and
accepting an $8,815 one-time user fee to allow for the placement of school identification signage
on the pedestrian overpass.
Chair Gort: Thank you, sir. Commissioner Carollo.
Commissioner Carollo: I move it, and Madam City Attorney, is there an amendment for any --
towards an issue that I brought up?
Ms. Mendez: Yes, Commissioner. We spoke to counsel for Slam, which is here, and we would
like to amend the legislation and the agreement with this provision: The permitted encroachment
shall be limited to a maximum height of 100 feet, with dimensions only as depicted and approved
on plans on file. The permitted encroachment shall not be interpreted to convey any property
rights, and the City reserves all rights in the Northwest 12th Avenue right-of-way, including but
not limited to air rights above the right-of-way. Thank you.
Commissioner Carollo: And with that amendment, I move it as amended.
Commissioner Suarez: Second.
Chair Gort: It's been moved and -- with amendment by Commissioner Carollo; second by
Commissioner Suarez.
Commissioner Carollo: Mr. Chairman.
Chair Gort: Yes, sir.
Commissioner Carollo: Thank you. And this is really something that has the potential to be a
great, great project in the heart of East Little Havana. And when we talk about beautification --
and I'm glad that you're actually showing the pictures. Something like this in East Little Havana
is just -- what else can you say? -- beautiful. And it's for a good, good need, which is a school,
education in the heart of East Little Havana. So I hope that I can get the approval from this
board. Thank you.
Chair Gort: I don't think you have any problem. It's --
Commissioner Suarez: Great institution.
Chair Gort: -- an improvement for that area, which would be the beginning of the continued
improvement.
Vice Chair Hardemon: Mr. Chairman.
Chair Gort: Yes, sir.
Vice Chair Hardemon: Besides the word, "Slam" that's written on it, will there be any other
advertisement on that?
Hugo Arza: No, sir.
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Meeting Minutes September 10, 2015
Commissioner Carollo: No.
Ms. Mendez: And the name will be pursuant to, obviously, our Code on size.
Chair Gort: You're recognized.
Commissioner Carollo: Sign.
Mr. Arza: Thank you so much. Hugo Arza, law offices at 701 Brickell Avenue. The --
"congratulations" and "thank you's " for how beautiful the building is should go to Mr. Harando
Llanes (phonetic) of Civica, the architect and designer of this project. The north side, the
seven -story building on the north side has been there already for several years. This is the south
side. The school had the opportunity to acquire the very similarly -sized block on the south side
of Northwest 6th Street, and they came up with this idea to provide for the pedestrian bridge, as
Commissioner Carollo said, and thank you for your support, Commissioner. We -- you know,
we're very excited to bring something that beautiful with a -- you know, an "A" school and
top-notch academic program to East Little Havana, so we're okay with the additional condition
that's been accepted, and we look forward to getting the building going.
Chair Gort: Thank you, sir. Any further discussion? Being none, all in favor, state it by saying
"aye."
The Commission (Collectively): Aye.
Chair Gort: Thank you.
Todd B. Hannon (City Clerk): As amended.
Mr. Arza: Thank you.
RE.5 RESOLUTION
15-00995
District 1- A RESOLUTION OF THE MIAMI CITY COMMISSION URGING THE FLORIDA
Commissioner FISH AND WILDLIFE COMMISSION ("FWC") TO PLACE ADDITIONAL
Wifredo (Willy) Gort SIGNAGE ON THE MIAMI RIVER AND IN THE BILL SADOWSKI CRITICAL
WILDLIFE AREA ("CWA") INFORMING BOATERS OF THE IDLE -SPEED
ZONE AND NO ENTRY ZONE, RESPECTIVELY; AND FURTHER URGING
THE FWC AND THE CITY OF MIAMI POLICE DEPARTMENT ("MPD") TO
BETTER ENFORCE SAID RESPECTIVE RESTRICTIONS; DIRECTING THE
CITY CLERK TO TRANSMITA COPY OF THIS RESOLUTION TO THE
OFFICIALS STATED HEREIN.
15-00995 Legislation.pdf
Motion by Vice Chair Hardemon, seconded by Commissioner Carollo, that this matter be
ADOPTED PASSED by the following vote.
Votes: Ayes: 5 - Commissioner(s) Gort, Sarnoff, Carollo, Suarez and Hardemon
R-15-0366
Chair Gort: RE.5. Madam Attorney, would you read the resolution that was brought out by
myself.
Victoria Mendez (City Attorney): Yes.
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RE.6
15-00631
The Resolution was read by title into the public record by the City Attorney.
Chair Gort: Thank you, ma'am. One of the reasons we doing this, voting something that is
greasy in the river quite a bit, and next week, we're going to have a press conference where we
going to show how we been able to get some of the yacht manufacturers that's corning back to
the river, and some of the major boat repairmen, mega yachts repair shops are corning down
from other places to Miami to the river, and it's going to be a great improvement for that area.
Yes, ma'am, you're recognized.
Michelle Metcalf.. Good morning, Chairman and Commissioners. My name is Michelle Metcalf.
I'm with Tropical Audubon Society. I'm the Biscayne Bay coordinator, and today, we support
this resolution, but we ask the Commission to allocate funds to do this, because, in fact, it was
part of the Virginia Key Master Plan in 2010 that was approved, and it's clear, there's little to no
funding available from FWC (Fish and Wildlife Commission) to put -- or better signage would
already be -- already exist for the area. And thank you.
Chair Gort: Thank you, ma'am. Anyone else? Close the public hearings. Comments? Being
none, all in favor, state it by saying "aye."
Todd B. Hannon (City Clerk): Is there a motion, sir?
Vice Chair Hardemon: So move.
Commissioner Carollo: Move -- second.
Commissioner Suarez: Second.
Chair Gort: Moved by Vice Chairman Hardemon; second by Commissioner Carollo. All in
favor, state it by saying "aye."
The Commission (Collectively): Aye.
RESOLUTION
A RESOLUTION OF THE MIAMI CITY COMMISSION AMENDING THE
GREEN CORRIDOR PACE DISTRICT TO EXPAND ELIGIBILITY FOR
FINANCING OF QUALIFYING IMPROVEMENTS TO PROPERTIES WITHIN
HISTORIC DISTRICTS.
15-00631 Pre-Legislation.pdf
15-00631 Legislation.pdf
SPONSORS: HONORABLE MAYOR TOMAS REGALADO
COMMISSIONER FRANCIS SUAREZ
Motion by Commissioner Sarnoff, seconded by Commissioner Suarez, that this matter be
CONTINUED PASSED by the following vote.
Votes: Ayes: 3 - Commissioner(s) Gort, Sarnoff and Suarez
Absent: 2 - Commissioner(s) Carollo and Hardemon
Note for the Record: Item RE.6 was continued to the October 8, 2015, Regular Commission
Meeting.
RE.7 RESOLUTION
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Meeting Minutes September 10, 2015
15-00970
Department of Police A RESOLUTION OF THE MIAMI CITY COMMISSION, WITH
ATTACHMENT(S), ACCEPTING THE BID RECEIVED JULY 29, 2015 FROM
GALLS, LLC, THE SOLE RESPONSIVE AND RESPONSIBLE BIDDER, IN
RESPONSE TO INVITATION FOR BID NO. 486326, GROUPS 1, 2, AND 3,
FOR THE PROCUREMENT OF POLICE UNIFORMS AND ACCESSORIES,
FOR THE MIAMI POLICE DEPARTMENT, ON AN AS NEEDED
CONTRACTUAL BASIS, FOR AN INITIAL CONTRACT PERIOD OF THREE (3)
YEARS WITH AN OPTION TO RENEW FOR TWO (2) ADDITIONAL TWO (2)
YEAR PERIODS, ALLOCATING FUNDS FROM THE VARIOUS SOURCES OF
FUNDS OF THE USER DEPARTMENT, SUBJECT TO THE AVAILABILITY OF
FUNDS AND BUDGETARY APPROVAL AT THE TIME OF NEED;
AUTHORIZING ADDITIONAL SUPPLIERS TO BE ADDED TO THE
CONTRACT AS DEEMED IN THE BEST INTEREST OF THE CITY OF MIAMI.
15-00970 Summary Form.pdf
15-00970 Invitation for Bid.pdf
15-00970 Legislation.pdf
15-00970 Exhibit - Tabulation Sheet.pdf
15-00970 Exhibit - Bid Response.pdf
15-00970 Exhibit - Corporate Detail.pdf
Fiscal Impact: Approximately $228,571.00 Annually
Motion by Commissioner Sarnoff, seconded by Commissioner Carollo, that this matter be
ADOPTED PASSED by the following vote.
Votes: Ayes: 4 - Commissioner(s) Gort, Sarnoff, Carollo and Hardemon
Absent: 1 - Commissioner(s) Suarez
R-15-0367
Chair Gort: R. 6 was -- R. 7 -- RE. 7.
Jorge Gomez: Jorge Gomez, Assistant Chief of Police. RE.7 is a resolution in order to accept
the bid from Galls Uniforms for a term of three years, with two other years as an option. It'll be
a fiscal impact of $228, 571. This is the company that we're using right now on an emergency
basis.
Chair Gort: Thank you. My understanding, you had an RFP (Request for Proposals), and then
they won the RFP. My understanding, you all had an RFP?
Assistant Chief Gomez: Correct. They were the only company that bid.
Chair Gort: Okay, thank you. Motion?
Commissioner Sarnoff. So move.
Commissioner Carollo: Second.
Chair Gort: Moved by Commissioner Sarnoff; second by Commissioner Carollo. Any further
discussion? Being none, all in favor, state it by saying "aye."
The Commission (Collectively): Aye.
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RE.8
15-00989
Office of Grants
Administration
RESOLUTION
A RESOLUTION OF THE MIAMI CITY COMMISSION, WITH
ATTACHMENT(S), AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO ACCEPT GRANT
FUNDS FROM THE SOUTH FLORIDA WORKFORCE INVESTMENT BOARD
D/B/A CAREER SOURCE SOUTH FLORIDA ("SFWIB") IN A TOTAL AMOUNT
NOT TO EXCEED $2,090,584.00 ("GRANT"), FOR THE OPERATION OF THE
MIAMI CAREER CENTER ("CENTER") LOCATED AT THE LINDSEY HOPKINS
EDUCATIONAL CENTER LOCATED AT 750 NORTHWEST 20 STREET,
MIAMI, FLORIDA; ESTABLISHING A NEW SPECIAL REVENUE PROJECT
ENTITLED: "SOUTH FLORIDA WORKFORCE INVESTMENT BOARD GRANT
FOR WORKFORCE INITIATIVES 2015-2016" TO ACCEPT THE GRANT AND
APPROPRIATE THE GRANT IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED
$2,090,584.00; FURTHER AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO
NEGOTIATE AND EXECUTE A FIXED RATE CONTRACT WITH COST
REIMBURSEMENT GRANT COMPONENTS WITH THE SFWIB AND TO
NEGOTIATE AND EXECUTE ALL OTHER NECESSARY AMENDMENTS,
EXTENSIONS, RENEWALS, AND MODIFICATIONS, IN A FORM
ACCEPTABLE TO THE CITY ATTORNEY, TO IMPLEMENT THE
ACCEPTANCE OF AND COMPLIANCE WITH THE GRANT AWARD FOR
SAID PURPOSES, FOR THE PERIOD COMMENCING JULY 1, 2015
THROUGH JUNE 30, 2016, WITH THE OPTION TO RENEW FOR TWO (2)
ADDITIONAL LIKE PERIODS AT THE SAME NOT -TO -EXCEED AMOUNTS
UNDER THE SAME TERMS AND CONDITIONS FOR THE CENTER,
SUBJECT TO BUDGETARY APPROVAL AT TIME OF NEED.
15-00989 Summary Form.pdf
15-00989 Back -Up - Draft Agreement.pdf
15-00989 Legislation.pdf
15-00989 Exhibit - Award.pdf
15-00989-Submittal-David Gilbert -Career Center Direct Placements.pdf
Motion by Vice Chair Hardemon, seconded by Commissioner Sarnoff, that this matter be
ADOPTED PASSED by the following vote.
Votes: Ayes: 3 - Commissioner(s) Gort, Sarnoff and Hardemon
Absent: 2 - Commissioner(s) Carollo and Suarez
R-15-0368
Chair Gort: RE.8.
Lillian Blondet (Director): Good morning, Commissioners. Lillian Blondet, Office of Grants
Administration. This is a resolution we're bringing to the Commission because we got additional
funding from Workforce this year. It's the second year in the three-year contract cycle, but before
we go into the resolution, I thought that it would be a good opportunity to update the
Commission on the successes and the challenges of this contract. So with that, I'm going to let
David Gilbert talk about the problematic part of the program.
Chair Gort: Mr. Gilbert, you're recognized.
David Gilbert: Good morning, Commissioners. David Gilbert, center director, City of Miami
Career Center. Some of the successes of the City of Miami Career Center for last program year
is trying to increase awareness to business communities, as well as job seekers of -- about the
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services that the center provides. Last year, the City of Miami Center served over 1,400
employers. They -- as well as created 1,500 job openings. We created 3,826 individuals -- or
helped 3,826 individuals obtain employment. Of those 3,826 -- 62 -- I'm sorry -- 1,012 were
direct job placements, where we brought an employer to the table, brought a job seeker to the
table, and they became gainfully employed at that point. Of the 1,012 direct job placement, 478
direct job placements represented City of Miami residents. Within the 478, 421 of those direct
job placements represented City of Miami residents that were in the highest unemployment areas
and the hardest to serve areas, which is roughly 88 percent of the direct job placements for City
of Miami residents, with an average wage rate of $10.55 an hour; in turn, giving the City of
Miami a $10.4 million net economic impact for the individuals that were placed that reside
within the City of Miami. As far as the retention rate of the individuals that were placed, the
retention rate for the center cannot be measured, but as it represents for the region, which is
Miami -Dade County, it represents a 81.83 percent retention rate. So eight out of ten individuals
maintained their jobs for well over 150 days.
Chair Gort: Thank you, sir. I know we have seen from my office quite a few individuals, and
they've been take care of and we appreciate it.
Vice Chair Hardemon: Mr. Chairman.
Chair Gort: Yes, sir.
Vice Chair Hardemon: How many job fairs have you had within the boundaries of the City of
Miami?
Mr. Gilbert: We've had three in the past three months and --
Vice Chair Hardemon: Where have you had them at? Where have you had them at?
Mr. Gilbert: We had one two -- three weeks ago at the Little Cultural Center. We're planning
one on the 17th of this month at Shenandoah Park, and then we're having one in the Liberty
Square the week after, on the 24th, in Liberty Square.
Chair Gort: We need one in Allapattah. Any further discussion?
Vice Chair Hardemon: I have one other thing.
Chair Gort: Yes, sir.
Vice Chair Hardemon: I know there was a concern that was brought to me from someone, and to
me, it's not important to name who the person is, but what happened to the person. And so,
apparently, one of the job -- the person was hired at a job, and I guess you have partners that
work with the center, and then those partners that you provide candidates to, you all give them
some type of financial incentive for them to remain on that job. Well, this person was hired
before they had any interaction with your authority, and what that partner did was, they sent that
person to, I guess, a meeting or whatever you guys have, to -- and that person was under the
impression they were being trained for something, but really, they were being added onto a list.
And then they became one of those people that was being used to get some type of benefit for that
company to -- so that company wouldn't have to pay a salary moving forward. So I think you
kind of understand where I'm going, right? This was someone that I know, someone that, you
know, we can qual what happened, and that's a concern; not because of you. I don't think it's
anything that you did, but more of the partner, because the partner was the one that sent them
there, unbeknownst to them, to make this assertion, to put their name in the hat, and then move
forward with that process. So if you want to talk to me offline about it, you know, we can, but it's
just something that we should really, really be concerned about moving forward with different
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partners that are -- and this partner is not within the City of Miami. It's in Miami Gardens. So,
you know, it's something we just -- it shouldn't happen.
Chair Gort: Maybe the question is, can people utilize the funds they receive and the employer
for that time; then after they run out offunds, that's it? Now, my understanding, you're --
Vice Chair Hardemon: Well, that's really what happened. And that's what happens.
Chair Gort: That's what happens. I know that happens all the time. That's --
Vice Chair Hardemon: So it's that 90-day period that you're talking about.
Mr. Gilbert: Well, as it sounds, it seems as if the business wanted a on-the-job training, so an
individual that they would have liked to hire, they wanted a reimbursable expense for the wages
during the training period. So generally, if a business has an individual that doesn't have a skill
set, they can qualffir for on-the-job training, if that job seeker is eligible for funding through
Career Source South Florida. So they, in turn, sent that individual to the Career Center. We
made that individual eligible for services. The employer, in turn, hired the individual and
received a subsidy for training that individual during a certain period of time. Now, the
contracts are written for if the person exceeds the contract and/or meets the contract
qualifications, then they should be retained, but if that person wasn't retained, then that is an
employer that we won't move and work for in the future. And businesses generally use the
services like the Career Center, because they can receive a -- up to a 75 percent reimbursement
on the gross wages for training an individual for up to six months.
Vice Chair Hardemon: And it makes sense. What I'm worried about is that you have businesses
that are abusing the system, and now, from what you've just described to me, they end up hurting
the person that's applying for those jobs, and that's something that we just cannot happen -- have
happen within our community, because we have so many people that need jobs. They know
about Career Source South Florida, but then, they get that initial benefit, but apparently, they're
being burned for another company that's trying to keep its business afloat using these tactics.
Mr. Gilbert: I totally understand, and that's why we check the retention rates on anyone that we
train as far as moving forward and engaging in a relationship with that business in the future,
because the qualifications on getting another one is, "What is your retention rate on retaining
the individuals that we have previously trained?" So that job -- that business would no longer
receive services through our particular Career Center.
Vice Chair Hardemon: Okay.
Commissioner Suarez: Mr. Chair.
Chair Gort: Thank you. Yes, sir.
Commissioner Suarez: Thank you. I kind of want to dovetail a little bit off what Commissioner
Hardemon was saying. Is it possible to have a little bit more interaction between what you're
doing and our offices? Simply because -- for example, you're doing one in Shenandoah. This is
the first I hear about it. So I mean, it's great, I think it's fantastic, but we want to be a part of it,
and we want to supplement your efforts. We want to help you, we want to help get the word out.
So the other thing I was going to say is you have, just based on the information I was given, in
the last year, approximately a 26 percent direct placement, you know, figure from people who
come in. By the way, what you have is a very difficult job, a very difficult task. I don't want to
give the impression that you have an easy task. You have a very difficult task on a multitude of
different levels, but, you know, I think part of our job is to push you guys to be better, so, you
know, I hope that that number starts inching up or starts going up substantially. And again, we
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want to help, because people come to us often, just like with potholes and, you know, and tree
trimmings, and everything that you can imagine, they also come to us constantly, asking us for
jobs. We refer them to you, but I think it might be a good idea, you know, to have some more
interaction, to have some more -- sort of doing events together. Park -- I think the park is a great
idea, doing it at the park or whatever, but we have -- we definitely have people that are asking us
constantly, and I think there should be a little bit more interaction. Thank you.
Mr. Gilbert: Totally agree.
Vice Chair Hardemon: You're recognized, Commissioner Carollo.
Commissioner Carollo: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I see the numbers of placements. I asked
this earlier, and I wasn't -- there wasn't an answer given, or this answer couldn't -- or the answer
to my questions could not be obtained, which I found it hard, but out of these placements, how
long -- how many of them are retained?
Mr. Gilbert: Eight -one -point -eighty-three percent.
Commissioner Carollo: And that's --
Mr. Gilbert: For the region.
Commissioner Carollo: -- citywide, or is that per district?
Mr. Gilbert: That's for the region, because that measure is not broken down per Career Center.
It's a regional measure, so 81.83 percent of the region's totally placements are retained.
Commissioner Carollo: And this region is Miami -Dade and Monroe County?
Mr. Gilbert: That is correct.
Commissioner Carollo: So we really don't know, out of these placements, within the City of
Miami, and your One Stop how many are actually retained?
Mr. Gilbert: Not down to the actual Career Center, but generally, the Career Centers mirror the
region's efforts, and the City of Miami Center represents 5.8 percent of Miami -Dade County.
Commissioner Carollo: Okay. And again, I'm okay with approving your item. I'm just -- like I
always say, be, you know, extremely cautious, because these funds are highly restrictive.
Mr. Gilbert: Just to touch on one more point, Commissioner, in reference to the direct job
placement to outcome or employment rate, the region was measuring the Career Centers at a 20
percent clip, which we exceeded by six percent. And currently, we're looking at a 30 percent
direct job placement rate, this particular program here. And another initiative that the center is
running is actually the Employ Miami -Dade Project, which we're training individuals and
getting them placed within the construction, hospitality and culinary industries. Within the last
six months, we've trained over 234 individuals; 60 percent of the individuals residing in the City
of Miami, and over 100 of those individuals have received long-term employment in the
hospitality and/or construction fields.
Vice Chair Hardemon: You're pulling the numbers from Monroe and from -- you said Monroe
County, right?
Mr. Gilbert: Well, as far as the retention rate.
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Vice Chair Hardemon: Monroe --
Mr. Gilbert: But the direct placements and the other figures are directly correlated to the actual
center.
Vice Chair Hardemon: Okay.
Commissioner Carollo: Mr. Chair --
Vice Chair Hardemon: So what would it take to have those numbers for the centers that you're
placing from?
Mr. Gilbert: Less than a week.
Commissioner Carollo: Mr. Chairman.
Vice Chair Hardemon: Let's do that.
Mr. Gilbert: Yes.
Vice Chair Hardemon: Please. Thank you. Yes, you're recognized.
Commissioner Carollo: Yeah. And the reason I asked that is because a lot of these One Stops,
the way that they receive funding is on placements and so forth, but, you know, people could be
placed but within a couple weeks, they are no longer, you know, employed, so that's why I think
the retention is extremely important, because placing is hard enough as it is, but it's even harder,
you know, retaining good employees, so that's why I want to ask, to make sure that, you know,
everyone, you know, we're all --
Daniel J. Alfonso (City Manager): Yeah. Commissioners, if may real quick. I've taken a
number of visits to the facility where our folks work. I got to tell you, those are very dedicated
folks over there, and they're not working with an easy -to -place workforce, so while the number
may seem low, I assure you that we've got some very dedicated folks. And we'll be glad to get
you the information that you're asking for.
Commissioner Carollo: Yeah. I'm not saying they're not dedicated folks. What I'm saying is the
numbers that you're giving, you know, I want to go a step further to see the numbers that you're
being given so we could analyze a little further, which is from those placements that you're
saying, how many of those placements are actually retained. It's simple -- it's not --
Mr. Alfonso: No, no, I understand. I'm just saying it's -- the issue of retention also goes to, you
know, are there business partners out there that sometimes, they're going to game the system a
little bit? Possibly. And then, the idea is identifying those and saying we're not going to be
dealing with that one, because that particular vendor or operator is trying to game the system.
Commissioner Carollo: Exactly. And that's the reason why we need to know what the retention
is, and from where, and so forth, so that's part of why I think there should be a further analysis.
Chair Gort: Thank you. Yes, ma'am.
Renita Holmes: I just wanted to -- Madam Holmes again for the record. Our Homes, Business
and Property Services Neighborhood First Source Workforce. I'd like to thank you, Mr. Gilbert,
personally at the microphone, and say that you have done -- and make you recognize that he has
done everything within his innovative qualities to be inclusive. Of those of us knowed [sic] that
are working with Corrections and Miami -Dade employment that are men. And this is not
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something I love saying, because primarily, I work with boys and gang (UNINTELLIGIBLE).
And he's done his best. I've taken the bus there with him. I've gone to other sources to get bus
cards, to Single Source, but the surveying and the monitoring of the retention, particularly of
those who are temporary employees, through the temp services, and the construction jobs, and
otherwise, it's significant. The monitoring and the reporting on those who are local versus those
who are retained that are not local, those that are homeless workers versus not makes a
significant difference about impact and retention, and I'll elaborate a little bit more on that, but
just mainly, I have over 27 women that may have seemed to be kept for a while, and then all of a
sudden, they're let go of. I have over 27 women in my reports in my bag. If you'd like me to walk
to your office, I'd like to be truthfully honest -- I know you trust me -- that I'm not working for
nothing. But basically, we are, that are paid more of a minimum wage than others. So when we
talk about the issues, we talk about fair employment, equal employment, and when we talk about
workers like myself who get no resources, who are not in there -- and I talked to the president of
South Florida Workforce -- it's been years -- how we get one group that has never had the
experience, and as a subcontractor, myself I mean, I'm doing the socioeconomic support that it
takes to maintain them, but I'm not even receiving resources. And when I talk about creating
documentation and exchanging documentation as an incorporated City of Miami license,
Miami -Dade County, State of Florida license, I would like to have that relationship, because, I
could tell you, 70 percent of them folks that go particularly to Lindsey we ride buses with them
there, the trolleys there with them there, but yet, I don't really exist, except for to say that I have a
relationship with this professional; it's just not a documented relationship. And what I retain in
information would be pertinent and relevant is just my work data. But --
Chair Gort: In conclusion.
Ms. Holmes: In conclusion, it has an impact, so I think you, Commissioner, are on point, but this
is something we get all the time. And once a person -- a company takes the money out of it, gets
the tax benefit, I got 30 days to work with somebody, and they're not employable --
Chair Gort: Thank you, ma'am.
Ms. Holmes: -- you really need to take a look at them.
Chair Gort: Thank you.
Ms. Holmes: And I appreciate you being on point.
Chair Gort: Thank you, ma'am. Yes.
Ms. Blondet: Thank you, Renita. I wanted to also talk about some of the challenges with this
contract, because it's a grant funded program, and as Commissioner Carollo had said before, it
is a highly restrictive funds. The contract since last year has been changed, and we get paid by
placement, by performance, and all this different placement, depending on the individuals, have
a different cost or revenue actually attached to it. Last year, we were able to almost break even,
because halfway through the year, after talking to Workforce, we were reimbursed as a cost
reimbursement contract. This year, we're back into paying per placement. The schedule of
payment, sometimes with the mix of customers that we have and the placements we do, the
revenues probably will not cover the monthly expenses. We just received the agreement last
week. We're still reviewing all the requirements of the contract in detail. There were some
changes from the original letters that were provided and the payments per placement. We're
going to look into that and see if we're going to stay with the same level, continue estimate if
we're going to have losses in a monthly basis. We still haven't received any invoice on the
placements that we got in the first two months of the program. We're into the third month. So,
you know, I just wanted to bring that up, because it's a great opportunity. We're doing great
work. The staff there is excellent. They place people that are the hardest to place in the area, so
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Meeting Minutes September 10, 2015
they have the highest unemployment, so that's to be commended. So we're getting people
employed, and as the Commissioners requested, this year, we're coming out more into the
community now that we have a system and a process, into the different neighborhoods and the
parks, because I think those are great venues to bring residents and job seekers. When we do the
events, we have companies that are looking for employees. We just don't go there to bring people
and have an event, no. We have employers that have job orders, and they're looking for
employees. Many times, we even preregister the people to make sure that the people that are
attending, the job seeker meet the requirements of the employer. The one that we did in Little
Haiti was extremely successful, and that employer is looking for a lot more people. It's a
telecommunications company, and we're bringing that one around the City, because they have a
large contract, and you know, we want to -- those are very good paying jobs, and it's a great
career. So with that --
Chair Gort: I have to tell you, anyone that I talk to, they're opening a business within my area, I
ask them to go to you (UNINTELLIGIBLE).
Ms. Blondet: And we appreciate that. You know, we --
Chair Gort: And I have someone in my staff that's constantly going to your office --
Ms. Blondet: Yes.
Chair Gort: -- and taking people there, and it's not an easy job. I understand that.
Ms. Blondet: No. And we been from this last year with the Employ Miami -Dade, so we're
hoping to get back in the rhythm and go outside, and get more people, but one of the most
important things is the companies.
Chair Gort: Right.
Ms. Blondet: The businesses are the ones that have the job openings, and those are the ones that
we're really, really pursuing, and making sure that, especially if they do business in the City of
Miami that they receive a --
Chair Gort: Thank you.
Ms. Blondet: -- business of somebody who lives in the City and works in the City.
Chair Gort: Thank you. I need a motion and a second.
Vice Chair Hardemon: So move.
Chair Gort: Moved by Vice Chairman Hardemon; second by Commissioner Sarnoff. Any
further discussion? Being none, all in favor, state it by saying "aye."
The Commission (Collectively): Aye.
Ms. Blondet: Thank you.
Chair Gort: Thank you. Are we going to have a CRA (Community Redevelopment Agency)
meeting?
Commissioner Sarnoff CRA?
Chair Gort: Yeah. Let's break for lunch.
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RE.9
15-01002
Department of Real
Estate and Asset
Management
Commissioner Suarez: Thank you, Mr. Chair. I think --
Chair Gort: What time are we corning back; about 2 o'clock?
Commissioner Suarez: You want to do RE.12?
Barnaby Min (Deputy City Attorney): There's also an attorney -client session.
Chair Gort: When?
Mr. Min: It should be at 2 o'clock, whenever you return from lunch.
Chair Gort: Okay.
Commissioner Suarez: Okay, great.
Chair Gort: Okeydoke, we come back at 2.
RESOLUTION
A RESOLUTION OF THE MIAMI CITY COMMISSION, WITH
ATTACHMENT(S), AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE A
PURCHASE AND SALE AGREEMENT ("AGREEMENT") BETWEEN THE CITY
OF MIAMI ("CITY") AND THE FEDERAL NATIONAL MORTGAGE
ASSOCIATION, FOR THE ACQUISITION OF THE PROPERTY LOCATED AT
1197 SOUTHWEST 19 AVENUE, MIAMI, FLORIDA, CONTAINING A TOTAL
LOT AREA OF 6,726 SQUARE FEET MORE OR LESS, AS LEGALLY
DESCRIBED IN THE AGREEMENT, IN SUBSTANTIALLY THE ATTACHED
FORM, FORATOTAL PURCHASE PRICE OF TWO HUNDRED THIRTY
SEVEN THOUSAND NINE HUNDRED DOLLARS ($237,900.00); FURTHER
AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE ANY DOCUMENTS, IN A
FORM ACCEPTABLE TO THE CITY ATTORNEY, WHICH ARE NECESSARY
TO EFFECTUATE SAID ACQUISITION; FUNDS ALLOCATED FROM THE
CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT AND TRANSPORTATION PROGRAM D4 PARK
LAND ACQUISITION PROJECT B-50568, IN THE TOTAL AMOUNT NOT TO
EXCEED TWO HUNDRED FORTY SIX THOUSAND DOLLARS ($246,000.00)
TO COVER THE COST OF SAID ACQUISITION INCLUSIVE OF THE COST
OF THE SURVEY, ENVIRONMENTAL REPORT, TITLE INSURANCE AND
RELATED CLOSING COSTS, IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE TERMS AND
CONDITIONS OF THE AGREEMENT, WHICH TERMS MAY BE AMENDED BY
THE CITY MANAGER AS MAY BE NECESSARY IN ORDER TO MEET THE
BEST INTERESTS OF THE CITY.
15-01002 Summary Form.pdf
15-01002 Back -Up - Appraisal.pdf
15-01002 Legislation.pdf
15-01002 Exhibit - Agreement.pdf
Motion by Commissioner Suarez, seconded by Commissioner Carollo, that this matter be
ADOPTED PASSED by the following vote.
Votes: Ayes: 4 - Commissioner(s) Gort, Sarnoff, Carollo and Suarez
Absent: 1 - Commissioner(s) Hardemon
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R-15-0369
Chair Gort: Time certain. You're recognized.
Commissioner Suarez: Thank you, Mr. Chair. It's RE.9, which is the -- an authorization of
purchase and sale agreement for 1197 Southwest 19th Avenue, and we have members of the
community that are here from the homeowners association, and this is another acquisition for the
district. It's a parcel, and it's been appraised, I think, at about $100, 000 more than what we're
purchasing it for, so we're walking into about $100, 000 of equity. And it's just an attempt to
continue to grow our park space in the City of Miami. We've all done it in varying degrees of
success, and I think at the end of the day, our community responds very favorably to our efforts
to expand parks in the City of Miami. I want to thank our Asset manager. I want to thank the
Administration, and in particular, the Parks Department, as well, for kind of thinking outside of
the box with reference to these pocket parks and really working with our office to do it efficiently
and effectively. I move it.
Commissioner Carollo: Second.
Chair Gort: It's been moved by Commissioner Suarez.
Commissioner Suarez: If you guys want to say something --
Chair Gort: Any discussion?
Istah Masher: Good morning, everybody. My name is Istah Masher. I'm the vice president of
Miami Shenandoah Neighborhood Association. There's not much to say. For me, this is an easy,
easy decision, right? You're increasing green areas where we're short, doing right by our
children, by our elderly folks in our community who can sit down and enjoy the day. I want to
commend District 4 office again. This is something we voted on in our board back in January to
ask Commissioner Suarez to look into this property. We noticed it came on the market. District 4
office very quickly met with us and moved everything forward. It was a pleasure, again, and I'm
looking forward to seeing a beautiful park there, and appreciate the way you're hard working.
Commissioner Suarez: Thank you.
Chair Gort: Thank you. You're for it. Any further discussion? Okay. Any further discussion?
Being none, all in favor, state it by saying "aye."
The Commission (Collectively): Aye.
Commissioner Suarez: Thank you, Chairman. Thank you, Mr. Chairman, for the time certain.
Chair Gort: Thank you.
RE.10 RESOLUTION
15-01068
District2- A RESOLUTION OF THE MIAMI CITY COMMISSION, WITH
Commissioner Marc ATTACHMENT(S), APPROVING THE MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING
DavidSarnoff ("MOU") BETWEEN MIAMI-DADE COUNTY, THE CITY OF MIAMI ("CITY"),
AND THE MIAMI-DADE COUNTY HOMELESS TRUST ("HOMELESS
TRUST"), ATTACHED AND INCORPORATED, CONCERNING THE DELIVERY
OF SERVICES TO THE HOMELESS BY THE HOMELESS TRUST AND THE
CITY; AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE ANY OTHER
DOCUMENTS, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO THE INTERLOCAL
AGREEMENT, IN A FORM ACCEPTABLE TO THE CITY ATTORNEY, IN
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ORDER TO ACCOMPLISH THE INTENT OF THE MOU.
15-01068 Legislation.pdf
15-01068 Exhibit - MOU.pdf
Motion by Commissioner Sarnoff, seconded by Commissioner Suarez, that this matter be
ADOPTED PASSED by the following vote.
Votes: Ayes: 4 - Commissioner(s) Gort, Sarnoff, Carollo and Suarez
Absent: 1 - Commissioner(s) Hardemon
R-15-0370
Commissioner Sarnoff Mr. Chair.
Chair Gort: RE.5.
Commissioner Sarnoff Mr. Chair.
Chair Gort: Yes.
Commissioner Sarnoff I'm going to be leaving in a few minutes, and I'd like to be here for
RE.10. With your permission, could we take it out of turn?
Chair Gort: Sure.
Commissioner Sarnoff So to my colleagues, RE.10 is a resolution of the City of Miami
approving the memorandum of understanding between Miami -Dade County, the City of Miami,
and Miami -Dade Homeless Trust, concerning the delivery of services to the homeless for the next
fiscal year. As you all know, in a very public way, it was a very arduous summer for some of us,
and a very public dispute resolved, I think, into a very favorable outcome. Three hundred
fourteen people, effective in Sep -- in October -- I'm sorry -- will have an opportunity to come off
the street. That's a historic number; that is a profound difference. If, in fact, we do have 500
people that are homeless in the City of Miami, a very persuasive argument could be made,
three -fifths are going to have an opportunity to come off the streets. This is not a perfect
agreement. There was a lot of compromise to it. For those who did not think a mat was a bed,
we're no longer going with the mat; although I will tell you this: When the temperature gets
below 61 degrees, a mat, apparently, is a bed, because that is the protocol of the Homeless Trust.
But this is a good agreement, because every emergency shelter bed will have the opportunity for
a continuum of -- for the continuum of care, and that means that the folks won't be forced to have
to have a social worker, or to get drug treatment, or to get alcohol rehabilitation, but they will
have the opportunity to have those facilities, especially at Camillus House. This summer, they
started -- they didn't start something, but they are starting to prove that the Lazarus Project is
working; that is where you provide voluntarily to the homeless an opportunity for drug treatment
that can help them with any schizophrenia, or any other form of mental disorder that they have,
and that program is showing extremely promising results, and that's being administered by Judge
Leifman, or at least that's his committee that's handling it. So I would hope that the -- my fellow
Commissioners would support me in this resolution. Danny Alfonso was extremely effective in
negotiating. The Mayor, Mayor Regalado provided his money towards portable toilets that,
hopefully, we will inevitably be able to procure; color me surprised it's taken us this long. And
Mayor Gimenez was instrumental in brokering the agreement.
Commissioner Suarez: Second.
Chair Gort: It's been moved by --
Commissioner Suarez: For discussion.
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Meeting Minutes September 10, 2015
Chair Gort: Discussion, yes, sir.
Commissioner Suarez: I just want to say that I'm extremely proud of Commissioner Sarnoff on
this issue. If he's had any sort of an evolution of thought on a substantive matter, this is one that,
to me, is of infinitely more importance than the one that we were discussing before, because it
involves the lives of people who are often forsaken or overlooked, andI remember how the
conversation began on this issue, and where the conversation is ending for you is something that
I think you should feel very proud of, because now, you're talking my language and -- it's not my
language, really, because it's not a Francis Suarez thing. It's really about, you know, the people
who you seek to protect, and to comfort, and to help, and there's certainly an ancillary benefit for
those in the community that are impacted, you know, by them. But at the end of the day, there's
so many good things happening in our City. We're so compassionate, and we get so little credit
for the compassion that we display for people in our community, and it's really something that
I'm glad you fought for, because at the end of the day, you see things like the Lazarus Project;
you see things like this agreement, and you really do think that we're making a significant
amount of progress on an issue we've made a lot of progress on over the years. So, again, I
commend you, and it's something that's a great legacy issue for you. Thank you.
Commissioner Sarnoff And I just want to say you were one of the primary persons who showed
me a different side of the equation about five years ago.
Chair Gort: Yes, ma'am.
Renita Holmes: Madam Holmes, for the public; particularly the women. You know, there's a big
gap, and you wonder why I'm so agitated, because this weekend, I had a woman that was -- she
exited the HAC (Homeless Assistance Center). She did not have any I.D. (identification), she has
four kids, she's a victim of domestic violence from another country, but she's been there without
regards for HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act), this particular lady
I'm speaking of. There are other women, as well, and I'm overwhelmed, because I'm right there.
It's not like I can turn my head. I live there, too. And so when we talk about a flowchart, when
we talk about a dent we put in, I watched three kids lose their mom; she has to go back. Two of
the kids were born here. She's still a victim. She never received those subsequent services.
Doesn't take a genius to know that if you got a woman in a house that's got DV (domestic
violence) marks, and her children are showing the signs of PTSD (post -traumatic stress
disorder). So my question is still there about how many mats were there for women that are not
there for women anymore?
Chair Gort: You're recognized
Commissioner Sarnoff Okay, I --
Ms. Holmes: Allow me, please.
Chair Gort: Let her finish.
Ms. Holmes: The -- you know, the number of services, and houses, and Miami Rescue Mission
beds for men, as opposed to women who have children, I'm concerned, because it's a big hole
about the LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender) women who are being separated from
their significant others. Could have been me. I chose to take the bridge, me and mine. And so
don't pat yourselves on the back too well about this, because Pottinger was redone, and I thought
that was so unfair, but particularly to women. And them funky little bathrooms that men pee on
that we go into, I'm not necessarily about those. I want to be treated better as a woman. I want
to be seen as -- I need specific answers, specific housing, and have specific homeless issues,
because it's really, really bad. Now, I'd like to speak with you all later. Let's avoid time to show
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you what I've got about that big gaping hole, and how many women and children are falling
through now that we don't have mats. It's hard to carry. See, women basically -- and I'm going
to close, Mr. Chair.
Chair Gort: In conclusion.
Ms. Holmes: But it's a human rights issue. When people put property rights before human
rights, I wonder if they're real people. And I'm not insulting you, but we got to get it together.
Chair Gort: Thank you.
Ms. Holmes: So my question is: If there are seven to one beds for men as opposed to homeless
woman, and women -- 50 to 60 percent of the women are carrying three to four children with
them, maybe we need to step it up a hundred percent.
Chair Gort: Thank you, ma'am.
Ms. Holmes: Thank you very much.
Chair Gort: I read the whole contract, and I'll let you answer that one.
Commissioner Sarnoff Yeah. There are 55 beds that never existed before for women, so women
and children can now go --
Unidentified Speaker: (UNINTELLIGIBLE).
Commissioner Sarnoff Fifty-five that did not exist before.
Chair Gort: Yes, sir.
Manny Sarria: Manny Sarria. I'm the deputy director for Miami -Dade County Homeless Trust.
I wanted to commend Commissioner Sarnoff, Danny Alfonso, and the City Mayor for reaching
this agreement. I don't think it was necessary. I was going to clam that through this
agreement, the Homeless Trust issued a request for applications, which funded beds at Camillus
House, but also funded beds at Lotus House, which includes women with children. Thank you.
Chair Gort: Thank you, sir.
Grace Solares: Grace Solares. We as individuals have a moral obligation to help all these
people, and government has not only a moral obligation, but a social obligation. I hope that this
teaches us a lesson that when the objective is to help the people in this City, and the less
fortunate, such as the homeless, we cannot think about our own individual governments. We
must all come together to find a solution to it. So now, we have the Homeless Trust; now, we
have the City and somebody else coming together, finally, to actually reach this, so good work.
Thank you.
Chair Gort: Thank you. Let me just say a little things, because I have a little history with the
homeless, going back about 25 years. I can tell you, the City of Miami -- we have homeless all
over Dade County, but everything ends up in the City of Miami. We have taken full
responsibility. We have dealt with it since 1993, when they didn't have the Trust, and they
needed the vote of -- and they needed a place where they could put the Homeless Trust. It was
the City of Miami that voted and allowed them to come in there. So I have to tell you, the City
have always been very involved. The biggest problem that we have, I would say, 90 percent of
the homeless, they're mentally ill, alcoholics, or drug addicts. We just give them a bed, it's not
enough. We have to give them treatment. And I know Judge Leifman is working on that, and
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RE.11
15-01086
Department of Parks
and Recreation
hopefully, the County gets to build that facility as soon as possible so we can really take care of
these people and give them the need that they have. Thank you. Any further discussion?
Commissioner Sarnoff. Yeah.
Chair Gort: You have a question? Yeah.
Commissioner Sarnoff. Let me especially thank the Manager, because you would think -- I don't
know -- he would let me deal with it sort of on my own, but at every step of the way, and at every
important meeting, he was there. And Danny Alfonso offered good advice and good suggestions
at very key moments, and I actually thought kept the conversation going at certain critical
junctures. So I just want to personally thank you for being there. I know it was the summer. I
know it may not be an issue that you had a great big -- a great amount of dearth or background,
but like most things that you don't know, you got up to speed very quickly.
Chair Gort: Okay.
Daniel J. Alfonso (City Manager): Thank you, Commissioner.
Chair Gort: Any further discussion? Good. All in favor, state it by saying "aye. "
The Commission (Collectively): Aye.
RESOLUTION
A RESOLUTION OF THE MIAMI CITY COMMISSION, WITH
ATTACHMENT(S), AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE A
GRANT AGREEMENT, IN SUBSTANTIALLY THE ATTACHED FORM, WITH
THE PARKS FOUNDATION OF MIAMI-DADE, INC. ("FOUNDATION"), A
NOT -FOR -PROFIT CORPORATION, FOR THE PURPOSE OF PROVIDING
FUNDING IN THE AMOUNT OF TWO -HUNDRED THOUSAND DOLLARS
($200,000.00) TO THE FOUNDATION AS PREVIOUSLY ALLOCATED
PURSUANT TO RESOLUTION NO. 14-0383, ADOPTED SEPTEMBER 29,
2014, FOR PARKS AND RECREATION SYSTEM IMPROVEMENTS AS
DEFINED IN SECTION 13-5 OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF MIAMI FOR
THE UNDERLINE PROJECT (FORMERLY KNOWN AS THE GREENLINK
PROJECT) WITHIN THE CITY LIMITS OF THE CITY OF MIAMI.
15-01086 Summary Form.pdf
15-01086 Pre-Legislation.pdf
15-01086 Legislation.pdf
15-01086 Exhibit-Agreement.pdf
Motion by Commissioner Sarnoff, seconded by Commissioner Suarez, that this matter be
ADOPTED PASSED by the following vote.
Votes: Ayes: 4 - Commissioner(s) Gort, Sarnoff, Carollo and Suarez
Absent: 1 - Commissioner(s) Hardemon
R-15-0371
Chair Gort: We have two RE (resolution) items to look at, and then we can go into Zoning,
Planning & Zoning, all right? RE.10. Done. RE. 11.
Kevin Kirwin: Good morning, Commissioners, or good afternoon, Commissioners. Kevin
Kirwin, your City of Miami Parks & Recreation director. RE.11 is a resolution authorizing the
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City Manager to enter into a grant agreement in substantially the attached form, to provide
funding in the amount of $200, 000 to the Park Foundation for the purposes of system
improvements and a master plan for the underline.
Chair Gort: Thank you. Yes, ma'am, you're recognized.
Meg Daly: Hi. My name is Meg Daly, 1004 Cotorro Avenue in Coral Gables.
Commissioner Sarnoff Before Ms. Daly speaks, Mr. Chair, can I just say a few things? I think
it may set the table a little better for Ms. Daly. I asked this be brought to the Commission
because they were having difculty in receiving their $200,000 grant, which we had granted
them about a year ago, if I remember. I'm going to assume, Mr. Kirwin, that that $200, 000, the
impediments or the contingencies or the "subject to's" have all been satisfied?
Mr. Kirwin: Yes, sir.
Commissioner Sarnoff Okay. Congratulations. Does this Commission need to revote on that as
a resolution? Yes?
Victoria Mendez (City Attorney): That's what's here before you today.
Commissioner Sarnoff So moved, and then I will --
Commissioner Suarez: Second.
Chair Gort: It's been moved and second.
Commissioner Sarnoff And let's just vote on it; then I'd like to say a couple things, if that's all
right.
Chair Gort: Any further discussion? Being none, all in favor, state it by saying "aye."
The Commission (Collectively): Aye.
Commissioner Sarnoff And I also brought -- so if -- there's a good French saying, in para par
se with it -- probably got that very wrong -- but --
Commissioner Suarez: I think so.
Commissioner Sarnoff I think -- yeah, I think the French would kill me, but that's okay. It's a
discussion item concerning the underline and how we could potentially fund this on a
sustainable way. So what I asked this Administration to do 31 days ago was to give us the
number of buildings that are being built; first, within the thousand feet; or then, within 500 feet
of the underline, and that this Commission could consider using park impact fees to help fund the
underline, itself which would give them a certain sum of money that they could predict, and they
could predict that going on into the future. And I don't have to get into, Commissioner Suarez or
Commissioner Carollo, that park space is so limited; it is. And the acquisition of it, the beauty of
this is we don't need to acquire it. This would put, certainly on the west side of my district, on
the east of Commissioner Carollo's district, especially by Brickell, park space where it's very
valuable and very scant to find. I brought it up merely as a discussion item. I know that Meg
Daly is here to talk about it. I think it's a good idea. I think it's a sustainable program. I think it
gives them a certain amount of money. If I'm not mistaken, the Brickell section of the underline,
which I think they categorize as phase one, is approximately $6 million. I think they have an
idea for funding of four of the $6 million, and may have an idea for one million more. So I think
we're dealing with numbers that we can gravitate to. Mr. Chair, with that, I'd like to allow Meg
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Daly to speak.
Chair Gort: Yes, ma'am, you're recognized.
Ms. Daly: Hi. Thank you so much. My name is Meg Daly. I live at 1004 Cotorro Avenue,
Coral Gables, and I'm founder of Friends of the underline. I've recently met with all of you and
your staff to update you on our progress. I also want to thank you so much for the master plan
funding. Our promise of meshing a world -class linear park, urban trail and living art
destination from underutilized land below Metrorail has excited our community and the nation.
Last March, through a competitive process, we selected our design team, James Corner Field
Operations, the designers of New York City's highly successful highline. We've had five public
meetings and completed hundreds of surveys, and people told us what they want. They want two
trails. They want one for pedestrians and one for bicyclists. They want to connect with nature
and restore native ecosystems. They want to see public art. They want lighting, and to be able to
cross streets safely. They want the vision of the underline. Our ten -mile footprint begins at the
Miami River and ends at Dadeland South. Half of the corridor is in the City of Miami. We go
through many neighborhoods, and we've designed distinctive parks for each. We connect to
other major trail initiatives and even have plans to push north, south, east, and west to support a
network of off- and on -road trails. The underline is a big vision and a big project, but our City
has even bigger need. Our County is the fourth most dangerous place to bike in the State, and
the fourth most dangerous place to walk in the country. Clearly, we need an off -road safe haven
like this project. In less than six months, we produced a draft of the master plan. Our next steps
are County and municipal approvals, and I just sent to City Manager Danny Alfonso the master
plan for distribution internally at the City of Miami. We'll have a final public meeting and FTA
(Federal Transit Administration) approval before the end of the year. Our construction estimate
for the ten miles will be completed at the end of the month, and the economic impact study will
be completed in October. We're also producing a traffic study to demonstrate how the underline
will reduce congestion by getting people out of cars, onto their feet, and bikes in transit. We
want to start building phase one of the underline in the Brickell area in the fall of 2016. So far,
we have secured three million from the County, one million from FDOT (Florida Department of
Transportation), and we are seeking over a million privately. The underline is not currently in
the City of Miami's budget, and I hope you will consider a contribution to the construction of the
five miles in Miami. Miami is at a tipping point. By adding quality infrastructure, we'll be more
mobile, healthier, livable and more sustainable. Thank you so much for your support, the City's
enthusiasm, and I look forward to returning soon with more updates. Thank you.
Chair Gort: Thank you. My understanding, you have a list of individuals that would like to
speak.
Ms. Daly: We have a few speakers.
Chair Gort: Okay.
Ms. Daly: Thank you.
Chair Gort: Commissioner.
Commissioner Suarez: Thank you, Mr. Chair. I just want to say that I wholeheartedly support
your efforts. As Commissioner Sarnoff said, I think we have some unique opportunities with
Ludlam Trail, with the underline, and with a variety of other potential properties that we're
looking at, but this one in particular reminds me -- and I love the pictorial, the way that you've
expressed it, because it reminds me a lot -- I went to Carson, California, and they have a
beautiful run trail right up to the bay; it's about a three- or four -mile run trail. And so, you
know, I think just the way that it's pictorially represented as a, you know, divide from U.S. 1,
which is a major thoroughfare, it's beautiful and it -- you know, I really believe that we're going
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to do everything in our power within the City boundaries to make it happen, because I think it's
essential for our City that it happen. Thank you.
Ms. Daly: Thank you, Commissioner.
Commissioner Carollo: Mr. Chairman.
Chair Gort: Yes, sir.
Commissioner Carollo: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I, too, am a supporter of the underline, and
voted, I guess -- was this our second or third time that we voted for the $200, 000?
Daniel J. Alfonso (City Manager): This is the third time, sir.
Ms. Daly: The third.
Commissioner Carollo: So you start losing track once, you know, it's the same money over and
over, and over again, and how hard is it to get rid of $200, 000? Gee. Think about this --
Commissioner Suarez: Does that mean that it's 600 now?
Commissioner Carollo: No. What I'm saying, that it's the same 200. It's the same 200. But
anyways, with that said, I, too, am a supporter of the underline. As a matter of fact, I contacted
Ms. Daly -- I guess it was quite a few months back --
Ms. Daly: May, like May.
Commissioner Carollo: -- Meg, quite a few months back. And even though, I guess, technically,
you could say, no, in our City budgets, we haven't funded the underline, and that's also incorrect,
because we are funding it as long as we work with our Parks Department, because I have waited
patiently for year -- year after year, and finally have received impact fees to actually construct
that part of the underline. And as I showed Meg, you know, we were planning this way before
the underline even became a corporation. I was actually speaking with Commissioner Barreiro
because of Miami -Dade Transit, and in all fairness, it was the two hotels, the park
(UNINTELLIGIBLE) right there, and you know the area very well, on the other side of Simpson
Park, and we had spoken -- I mean, at least three years ago, we began conversations. And I just
don't want to do that part of the underline; I also want to do the curb and gutter, and so forth,
keep going, because right at that area -- and I don't know if you're familiar with it,
Commissioner Sarnoff -- at that area, the Metrorail actually goes to the street level. So there's a
-- it's fenced off from the public, and then there's a crosswalk, which a lot of people in the Roads
are actually using. So we have sufficient funding in place for this to happen, and I just want to
work with our Parks Department, which we are, in order to coincide with the underline, I feel at
the same time, it's under the City's control. It's under the City's, you know, control as far as how
we put it in there, because I'm looking a little bit more of a passive park; and Meg, maybe a little
bit more aggressive with some of her stuff, but I'm sure we could work together.
Ms. Daly: Absolutely.
Commissioner Carollo: But I actually reached out to her, and we walked it. I -- we walked it.
We actually walked that whole trail.
Ms. Daly: We did. (UNINTELLIGIBLE). Thank you.
Commissioner Carollo: Goes to 25th Road. So, again, I'm a supporter. As far as going as far
as saying, hey, "X" number of impact fee, again, I don't want to tie our hands, you know, but I
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do support it and I think, realistically, it goes through, I believe, either two or three
Commissioners' districts. I think we could find funding for it, but again, I want to make sure that
Chair Gort: Goes through all five Commissioners' district.
Commissioner Carollo: Well, all five Commissioners. I could clearly tell you, I've already put
my part. I've already have allocated fundings for you.
Chair Gort: Great. The -- as we discussed before, I think it's a beautiful idea, because looking
at those concrete walls and all that, it's kind of ugly. This will make an improvement. But like I
requested before, this is your first phase; second phase, let's go north.
Ms. Daly: We will.
Chair Gort: Okay, thank you.
Commissioner Sarnoff Mr. Chair.
Chair Gort: Yes, sir.
Commissioner Sarnoff So, Mr. Manager, I've been asking now for 32 days for the permits that
were pulled within 500 feet of the phase one of the underline. When might I have that review?
Mr. Alfonso: All right. Commissioner, the information that I was given is in the last 12 months,
impact fees within a thousand feet of the underline amount to about $7.3 million. Now, that's
past. That money --
Commissioner Sarnoff Those are already paid in.
Mr. Alfonso: -- is already in the bank, which means it's already appropriated in our --
Commissioner Sarnoff Right.
Mr. Alfonso: -- budget. So future impact fees, you know, what they're going to be, we're not
sure, but it could be significant.
Commissioner Sarnoff Okay. So, you know, I'm just going to say -- I'm going to quote Joe
Biden, who's an interesting guy to quote right now. You can tell me what's important to you, or I
could show you what's important to you by your budget. So I'm going to ask that we bring back
some sort of an ordinance that -- that's a very high number, so I'll go on to say any buildings
within the phase one, on the east side of -- in District 2 would be dedicated toward a funding
source for the underline.
Commissioner Suarez: I'm going to support that.
Commissioner Sarnoff It's pretty easy. I mean, I'm saying --
Commissioner Carollo: So for the east side of District 2.
Commissioner Sarnoff Well, I really mean the east side of the underline, because it would be the
east side.
Commissioner Carollo: District 2.
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Commissioner Sarnoff District 2. And I think that would give you a dedicated source of
funding. You heard $7.8 million. I will bet you 5 million of that 7.8 is probably money you could
probably count on. Even if you go down to $1 million next year, that's a million dollars that you
need. And there's -- and I'll yield to you, but there's no potential for a new park in that area
other than the underline.
Commissioner Carollo: Commissioner Sarnoff -- I'm sorry -- Commissioner -- Mr. Chairman.
Chair Gort: You're recognized.
Commissioner Carollo: Yeah. That's not necessarily true, but anyways, with that said, let's say
fundings from this is going to go to the underline, but when you say it's going to go to the
underline, what; it goes to this nonprofit, and then they build a park for us? Or how does this
work? Because I keep saying, coinciding with our Parks Department and getting -- because I'll
tell you right now, as far as putting your money where your mouth is, I'll show you the
allocation. I'll show you 15th Road 1st Avenue; it's there. As a matter of fact, I don't want to
wait till 2016, to the fall of 2016. I want to begin beforehand, so it's there.
Commissioner Sarnoff I think --
Commissioner Carollo: So my question is, when you say you want "X" number of impact fees to
go to the underline, okay, through the Commission; through that Commissioner's district, since
there's five Commissioners that have a piece of the underline? Or go directly to this
not -for -profit and --?
Commissioner Sarnoff Well, as in many things, I would yield to the Manager and I'd yield to
Madam City Attorney as to the proper entity that would make sure that would be building this
particular -- I assume since -- I shouldn't make assumptions, so let me ask the question. So since
there is the Parks Foundation of Miami -Dade, Inc., and we just gave them $200, 000 for the
master plan -- I guess I made a great big assumption, and I apologize, Mr. Manager -- that that
would be the entity for which we would -- then would be building the park. Am I wrong on that?
Mr. Alfonso: I don't think that's necessarily the case, sir -- Commissioner -- I'm sorry. I mean,
we would have to figure out exactly who is going to be doing the construction, who's going to be
in charge of that, who -- just like -- the whole reason why this came back three times was
precisely because we thought there was an entity, and then there wasn't an entity, and --
Commissioner Sarnoff So what is the entity that's going to be building the underline?
Ms. Daly: It'll be Miami -Dade County Parks. And so the funding goes ultimately to
Miami -Dade County Parks. And the issue with the 200, 000, from my understanding -- and
Clayton Solomon was involved in that discussion of the most recent document -- was that both
the Parks Foundation and Friends of the underline are a 501(c)(3), and either one -- either party
could receive those funds and then distribute it to the entity that's constructing, which would be
Miami -Dade County Parks, and we'd have to go through their program and process.
Commissioner Sarnoff So if my resolution were to ask for the ordinance to come back and it go
to Miami -Dade County Parks --
Ms. Mendez: You would not need an ordinance. This could be by resolution.
Commissioner Sarnoff Right.
Ms. Mendez: Because you're allo -- you're making an allocation; however, I would suggest that
it would only go to one entity, which is the Parks, Miami -Dade County Parks, because they have
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a quasi -agency -government type situation with the County, because if not, something that would
have to be procured and --
Commissioner Sarnoff Why don't we do this: Why don't ask that the City of Miami enter into an
MOU (Memorandum of Understanding) with Miami -Dade County Parks for a funding
relationship for phase one of the underline -- am I describing it right, phase one?
Ms. Daly: Yes, mm-hmm.
Commissioner Sarnoff Which is the Brickell area, and that any District 2 building, Parks
impact fees be dedicated toward the funding of that entity, which we now understand is
Miami -Dade County Parks.
Commissioner Carollo: Now --
Commissioner Suarez: Second.
Chair Gort: There's a motion and a second. Discussion. Yes.
Commissioner Sarnoff Slow second.
Chair Gort: Commissioner Carollo, you're recognized.
Commissioner Carollo: Yeah, two things: Number one, I brought that issue, because, obviously,
I knew that this wasn't just an easy issue as far as what you were asking, for the impact fee,
number one. So number two, you actually want Dade County Parks to -- you want to give
control to Dade County Parks to do the park in the City of Miami, which is still your funding, so
you're saying, "Hey, Dade County Parks, here's our funding. Come in and do our parks."
Commissioner Suarez: Can I chime in?
Commissioner Carollo: I mean, I have a good relationship with Commissioner Barreiro, so --
but in essence, that's what you're doing; that's number one. Then number two, there's no doubt
about it that -- and we voted for many of these projects -- the largest construction, the largest
amount of --
Commissioner Suarez: Impact fees.
Commissioner Carollo: -- impact fees is in your district. Why? Because that's the central
location where we have our downtown, so it doesn't really make logic that big construction
would happen in many of the other districts, so, obviously, you would have the majority of the
Park impact fees. Now, what I'm saying is, you know, we hear all these master plans, and master
plans, and master plans. What about our City of Miami Master Plan that stipulates parks east of
12th Avenue -- I'm sorry -- west of 12th Avenue, and that's where it's very needed, you know, and
it's in some less affluent areas, like Little Havana, and going all the way down to Flagami. So
what I'm saying is, listen, I'm backing the underline; however, to say all of the impact fees from
now on, all the Park impact fees from now goes to the underline, I don't know. I have --
Commissioner Sarnoff So why don't we do it --
Commissioner Carollo: -- some reservations about that.
Commissioner Sarnoff I understand. So they're looking -- you're looking for a million dollars,
right? So why don't we just cap it at $1 million?
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Commissioner Suarez: Second as amended.
Commissioner Sarnoff Right.
Commissioner Suarez: Can I -- may I, Mr. Chair? May I --
Commissioner Sarnoff Cap it at $1 million. I mean, they're -- I can name five buildings that I
know have not paid impact fees that will pay impact fees that are within 500 feet of the underline.
Commissioner Suarez: Mr. Chair, if may?
Chair Gort: Yes.
Commissioner Suarez: Look, part of -- and I understand the Commissioner's concerns, because
he's talking about facts, and they're undisputable facts; however, part of expanding park space is
taking advantage of opportunities that exist. This is an opportunity that currently exists, just like
Ludlam Trail, which happens to be in my district, and he was talking about the Flagami area is
an opportunity that exists. There are other opportunities that I'll be bringing in the future that
also exist. First of all, the limitation helps, I think, because I think there, you set some sort of a
cap. May -- it may mollify him. I don't know if he's going to support it or not, but at the very
minimum, there's some sort of a limitation. We have the right to expand or contract anything
that we do. That's the part that sometimes I feel like we get too caught up in the moment a little
bit, and we forget that we can say, "Look, times have changed. " We just did it today on the
media tower. We just took something out of our Code. We didn't think it was in the best interest
of the City any longer. So if we think something's getting out of control, we can always dial it
back; I mean, that's easy to do. So, look, I support this wholeheartedly. This is a unique,
undeniable opportunity, and we have to take advantage of it, just like we have to take advantage
of Ludlam and other opportunities. What I was going to mention was with respect to Ludlam --
and it'll be coming at the next Commission meeting -- what you may want to do is say -- in other
words, have a placeholder and say, for example, "We're going to be allocating a certain part of
our park acquisition impact fees that was designated for District 4, but we're doing it as a
placeholder, because we don't know how it's going to be managed and operated" It may be a
conservancy, the Ludlam; it may be the County; it may be the City; it may be some third party,
who knows. The point is that you're segregating the funds so that they're usable once that is
established, so that's sort of after the fact.
Commissioner Carollo: Mr. Chairman.
Chair Gort: Yes, sir.
Commissioner Carollo: As a matter of fact, the County has allocated $3 million, correct?
Ms. Daly: Yes.
Commissioner Carollo: And they allocated those $3 million to? It wasn't to their Parks
Department.
Ms. Daly: It would go to Parks, the Parks Department; not the Parks Foundation.
Commissioner Carollo: So they allocated the $3 million to the Parks Department? Are you sure
about that?
Ms. Daly: For construction of the underline, so it's -- yeah, there's a footnote that it's for
construction of the underline, from road impact fees. Now, I would like to add -- because I think
what we're talking about is a governance issue -- we're a nonprofit. We're a 501(c)(3). We have
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developed an outline for governance, which is being reviewed by Transit -- you know there's
been some turnover there -- as well as the Parks Department and what was Public Works. The
municipalities are represented in that governance model. So it's a separate entity that's also a
501(c)(3), which is a conservancy model. So we have representation from the three
municipalities and the County agencies, as well as Friends of the underline for construction
oversight, as well as ongoing maintenance.
Commissioner Carollo: I'm sorry, and forgive my ignorance. Who's the representative from the
City?
Ms. Daly: We have an outlined document, and so that's just basically the base outline, and those
things will be worked out with the various municipalities in short order.
Commissioner Carollo: But we don't have a representative from the City, right now, because it
has --
Ms. Daly: No, not right now. We have a proposal.
Chair Gort: Let me tell you, the -- I know it's going to be built within the City of Miami, and we
look at the City of Miami Parks Department, but we need to understand this is going to be built
in County -owned property; am I correct?
Commissioner Carollo: No.
Commissioner Sarnoff Yeah.
Commissioner Carollo: No, and I'll tell you why not. Because -- I'll tell you why -- we own
either side of that Metrorail Station so --
Ms. Mendez: The problem is the Rapid Transit Corridor, and this would be within that, so I
think they trump us on that. We fought them many years ago on this, and that's the problem.
Commissioner Carollo: I'm pretty comfortable we own -- okay, at least the area that I'm talking
about that we've already allocated funding, and you know the area very well, Meg. We own a
significant part of that parcel already, so I wanted to make it -- you know, and as a matter of
fact, three years ago, I spoke to Commissioner Barreiro to see how we actually maybe even -- I
don't know if it's possible -- get the County to deed that to us. But anyways, it was just
discussions back and forth, but the bottom line is, at least in my area, the City owns a good part
of it, so it's now just, you know, putting the parks together so that makes it one big park as
opposed, you know, a section here and a section there.
Chair Gort: Commissioner Suarez, you're recognized.
Commissioner Suarez: Thank you, Mr. Chair. Meg, if you wouldn't mind, there's a very small
section that's in my district. It's a very kind of unique section that touches U.S.1 between 27th
Avenue going east and they actually -- we've been in sort of a titanic battle with the Florida
Department of Transportation over a fence that they erected that sort of blocks the view of the
business owners from U.S.1, and we've been trying to work with that. If you don't mind meeting
with them, because I think there's some concerns about just in that small section, how it would
interact with their property, so just -- if you don't mind.
Ms. Daly: Well, you make -- you bring up a good point. This corridor has really not been paid
attention to. It's a Rapid Transit Zone, and it's wholly controlled by Transit. There's a number of
other right-of-ways that are contiguous, but it's still, for the most part, a hundred feet wide from
the Miami River down to Dadeland Station South. That FDOT fence went up without anybody
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knowing about it. Apparently, it had been in the pipeline for two years. One of our
representatives went, as well as one of our attorneys, with you, with Jose, Javier Rodriguez and
so forth. Our intention is to try to get FDOT to understand the rationale of a vegetative border
rather than a fence border, and also give the home -- the business owners visibility from the
street, so that particular parcel has a lot of things going on in it, but we're very paying attention
to it --
Commissioner Suarez: Thank you.
Ms. Daly: -- in our design.
Chair Gort: What I would like, Mr. Manager, so there will not be any confusion for a lot of
people to understand what the impact, it has certain criteria how the funds can be used, because
a lot of people believe that impact fee could be used all over, so could you go over and explain
how impact fee is used and where it has to be used?
Mr. Alfonso: Well, okay, Commissioners, so just to make sure I understand where we are right
now, what we're talking about is taking impact fees from buildings a thousand feet to the east --
of 500 feet to the east of the corridor, and designating them, up to a maximum of $1 million, to
the Underline Project. And we will work a maintenance -- a management understanding
agreement --
Commissioner Sarnoff MOU.
Mr. Alfonso: -- an MOUwith the County so that we transfer the funds over and they build, not
different from what we do when they give us money and we build in our parks, or when they give
us money and we build a road or something like that, so that's sort of the structure that I'm
envisioning. Our impact fees for parks are eligible for new park construction; building, land, et
cetera, so that's my understanding.
Chair Gort: And it has to be used when the impact takes place; am I correct?
Mr. Alfonso: Well, the -- we've always had an argument about how far the impact can extend.
We can argue that, depending on the size and scope of a park, it could be considered a citywide
impact, so that, you know, the 35 square miles of the City could be the zone.
Chair Gort: Thank you.
Mr. Alfonso: That's been the argument that we've made in the past.
Chair Gort: Thank you.
Commissioner Carollo: Mr. Chairman.
Chair Gort: Yes, sir.
Commissioner Carollo: One -- I don't want to say "one last question, " but another question:
Do you want to sunset at any time, Commissioner Sarnoff? Because I would admit, I've been a
critic of our CIP (Capital Improvements Program) Department, but I would think our CIP
Department is going to be quicker than their CIP and Parks Department, so, you know, in other
words --
Mr. Alfonso: Thank you, sir.
Commissioner Carollo: -- so you want to send a million dollars over there, and if it's five years
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from now, that million dollars is still sitting over there, and the park still hasn't been built. When
do we say, "Hey, guys" --
Commissioner Sarnoff I'll tell you what, Commissioner, I like that suggestion, so I'll amend it to
sequester the money for four years; not even five years; four years. If they can't get it going in
four years, Meg, you're a failure; just put it on record.
Commissioner Carollo: I have to tell you, though, I can assure you that with our CIP
Department, part of the underline will be built, at least in my district.
Chair Gort: That's good.
Commissioner Carollo: So way before four years.
Commissioner Sarnoff But it'll be like an island, and we could make it into a thoroughfare.
Commissioner Carollo: Well, that's --
Ms. Daly: That's right.
Commissioner Carollo: -- but that's exactly why I'm saying that, Commissioner Sarnoff, because
your island and my island sort of --
Commissioner Sarnoff Let's join those islands.
Commissioner Carollo: Exactly. But if my island is built and I'm still waiting for your island,
and someone tells me, "Commissioner, didn't you vote in favor of giving them a million
dollars?"
Commissioner Sarnoff Well, or I could vote you off the island.
Chair Gort: Gentlemen, we've got a long evening today.
Commissioner Carollo: That's exactly my point. So when do we get that million dollar back?
That's exactly my point.
Commissioner Sarnoff I -- all I'm suggesting is -- first of all, I like your suggestion. If you can't
-- let this be sequestered for four years, fine.
Commissioner Suarez: The seconder accepts the modification.
Commissioner Sarnoff And then it sunsets. I also have a second suggestion once we do this
resolution; for a second resolution that I think will help this process.
Commissioner Suarez: Okay.
Chair Gort: My understanding is --
Commissioner Suarez: Can I stay on the island?
Chair Gort: Excuse me.
Commissioner Suarez: Thank you.
Chair Gort: My understanding, we have some people that'd like to speak.
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Ms. Daly: Thank you.
Todd B. Hannon (City Clerk): Yes, sir, I do have some people that are signed up to speak. The
first three speakers: Clayton Solomon, William Fitch and August Neal.
Clayton Solomon: Thank you, Mr. Chairman and members of the Commission. I'd anticipated
this would -- appreciate your remarks, but I'll give my points either way; I'll get to the point. I'm
here as a constituent of yours to urge permanent funding for the Underline Project or budgeted
funding for the Underline Project. I've lived in Miami for over 20 years. I'm a resident and
homeowner in Brickell. I used to take public buses and transportation to high school, and
despite my rugby -like frame, I'm an avid cyclist. I once rode 4,000 miles from San Francisco to
Washington, D.C. (District of Columbia), and I've twice rode from Miami to Tallahassee. And as
I am not an economist or a public planner, I'm here to talk to you about the biking aspects of this
project. Having biked through 120 cities across America, I can tell you that Miami is way
behind. We should be a paradise for those who enjoy this sport as much as I do, and not just the
people who ride on Key Biscayne, but families, and children, and recreational users. Miami is
among the worst in the country in terms of bicycle safety, and Bicycling Magazine ranked us
44th out of 50 in public support for cycling. That's right behind Omaha, Nebraska. Simply
stated, bicycling in Miami is unsafe and impractical. It's unsafe, because we lack dedicated bike
lanes and paths, because of poor signage and poor intersection crossings. It's impractical,
because the main traffic arteries aren't suitable for cycling. And the underline, as you've seen
through Meg's project, will solve all of these problems. I'm pleased today that you're voting on a
grant; and I'm pleased also, to see the discussion in favor of using parks fees. I'm urging you to
do everything you can within your power to make the underline a legacy of this Commission.
Thank you for your time and your service.
Chair Gort: Thank you, sir. Appreciate it. Next.
William Fitch: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Commissioners, my name is Bill Fitch. I'm a resident
at 31 Southeast 5th Street, Unit 3815, in Miami, 33131. I'll start off right now by thanking you.
I was going to say, `please do it," but you've done it for the 200,000 to get started. I would have
liked, since you voted three times, for it to be six. Commissioner Sarnoff and others have heard
me say many times that my wife and I chose to come to Miami, having lived in every other part of
the country, because it has everything I wanted for a perfect life; almost perfect. Traffic needs to
be fixed, and we need parks. This is an outstanding move to get parks. This is an outstanding
move to make Miami an even better place. Meg has talked about some of the other cities that
have linear parks. We need to be as good or better than they are. The underline will enhance
the use of the Metromover, because it'll make it much more friendly to people to go there and use
it. You've got money in the budget in the Parks, almost $4 million. Certainly, some of that could
be used as a part of this to fund it in the future, as well. There is one other item I've mentioned to
Commissioner Sarnoff, which I think is ridiculous in the budget, and I'd love to see that moved
away, and that's putting plastic binds on the -- to cover a wall along U.S.1. Use that for the
underline. You've got lots of -- this is an amazing project; we need it. You've all said we want to
cut down on traffic. You've all said we want more parks. This is a way to do it. Thank you, and
please do it.
Chair Gort: Thank you, sir. Next.
Ms. Daly: Thank you so much for the time that you've given us. We have a number of other
speakers. You guys have a very full agenda today and a very busy night, so we want to be
respectful of your time and say thank you so much for your consideration.
Chair Gort: Thank you. Yes, ma'am, you're recognized.
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City Commission
Meeting Minutes September 10, 2015
Renita Holmes: It's Madam Holmes, son. It's been a great day here today, and there's several
meetings. Just as a taxpayer and someone who lives in a community where park development is
basically -- I'm still on this contamination thing and how some parks and some folks can get a
budget to expand, renew, consult after close and still be building up their neighborhoods.
Through the Chair, Chairman Gort to Commissioner, I love this, how one community can
continue to deal with its traffic, and its bicycling issues with all of its parks, and I could just stay
in my neighborhood, you know, and have these contaminated parks with no report, and no
building, and everybody just building all around Overtown and downtown, and, you know, the
ghetto. I don't know if it's because we don't have these bright ideas, but I think this is a
wonderful project. I've read it through, Madam, but we're all not -for -profits; we all have parks;
we're all taxpayers. My concern is that I'm just -- I think it's so unfair when one community can
continue to have access to new revenues and, you know, and have -- this park in -- over here, I
got children dying with no safe space. We get knocked around. If you'd have pulled the reports
on bicycle incidents, they're high, Commissioner Hardemon, in our area. I've got two back here
in my backpack right here, being hit by cars, right here. No, this -- that's just life. But I'm just
wondering, when it comes to saving monies for one area, one district, one Commissioner, and
then it's never contested. And then it's always some privileged group that comes up with a great
idea that's already been working with PZ (Planning & Zoning) and -- I'm just putting it on the
record. I'm just wondering how one part of the community can grow, get future tax monies, have
great pilot projects, and then from now on until eternity, while we're still suffering. I think it's
unfair in the process. I'm questioning the process as a taxpayer, because I've got some great
ideas. I've got some great park space and we got some great not -for -profits. How does one
group get more tax money than the next?
Chair Gort: Thank you, ma'am. Okay, we -- are you for or against it?
Elvis Cruz: I'm sorry?
Chair Gort: Are you for or against it?
Mr. Cruz: I'm for it.
Chair Gort: Okay.
Mr. Cruz: But just very briefly. Elvis Cruz, 631 Northeast 57th Street. I just wanted to mention,
Commissioners, that going back ten or 15 years, a lot of the plantings that currently exist in that
underline area were put there by volunteers from Tropical Flower and Tree Society, Palm
Society, Tremendous Miami, and it's just my hope that those plantings would be respected, and
incorporated into this new design; and also, those volunteer societies are a resource that this
group may want to consider if you need some help. Thank you.
Chair Gort: Thank you. Anyone else? Seeing none, hearing none, close the public hearing.
Any further discussion? Being none, all in favor, state it by saying "aye."
The Commission (Collectively): Aye.
Commissioner Sarnoff Mr. Chair, can I tender an ore tenus motion for a resolution asking the
City of Miami, Board of County Commissioners, and/or their administrative department to either
designate or co -designate the -- what's the name of that section? It's a rapid --?
Ms. Mendez: Rapid Transit Corridor.
Commissioner Sarnoff -- the Rapid Transit Corridor as either park space, Parks & Recreation
or co -equal Parks & Recreation space.
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Meeting Minutes September 10, 2015
(RE.11)
15-01086a
(RE.11)
15-01086b
Commissioner Suarez: Second.
Chair Gort: Been moved and second Any discussion? Being none, all in favor, state it by
saying "aye."
The Commission (Collectively): Aye.
Commissioner Sarnoff. And I'd ask that the Clerk transmit that resolution to the Mayor and to
the Chairman of the Miami -Dade County Commission.
Commissioner Carollo: Mr. Chairman.
Chair Gort: Yes.
Commissioner Carollo: I'm sorry, I was out doing a television interview, and I figured it would
-- the discussion would go longer. Show me as a `yes" vote on the underline for the $1 million.
Chair Gort: Okeydoke.
RESOLUTION
A RESOLUTION OF THE MIAMI CITY COMMISSION AUTHORIZING THE
CITY MANAGER TO ENTER INTO A MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING
WITH MIAMI-DADE COUNTY FOR FUNDING OF PHASE ONE OF THE
UNDERLINE PROJECT FROM PARK IMPACT FEES ATTRIBUTABLE TO
CONSTRUCTION OF BUILDINGS WITHIN FIVE HUNDRED (500) FEET TO
THE EAST OF PHASE ONE OF THE UNDERLINE PROJECT IN AN AMOUNT
NOT TO EXCEED ONE MILLION DOLLARS ($1,000,000.00) PROVIDED THAT
SAID FUNDS SHALL BE EXPENDED ON PHASE ONE OF THE UNDERLINE
PROJECT WITHIN FOUR (4) YEARS.
15-01086a-Submittal-Meg Daly -The Underline PowerPoint Presentation.pdf
Motion by Commissioner Sarnoff, seconded by Commissioner Suarez, that this matter be
ADOPTED PASSED by the following vote.
Votes: Ayes: 5 - Commissioner(s) Gort, Sarnoff, Carollo, Suarez and Hardemon
R-15-0397
Note: Please see File Number 15-01086 for minutes pertaining to
File Number 15-01086a.
RESOLUTION
A RESOLUTION OF THE MIAMI CITY COMMISSION URGING THE BOARD
OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OF MIAMI-DADE COUNTY TO DESIGNATE
OR CODESIGNATE THE PORTIONS OF THE METRORAIL CORRIDOR
CURRENTLY BEING DEVELOPED AS THE UNDERLINE AS A PARKS AND
RECREATION SPACE; DIRECTING THE CITY CLERK TO TRANSMITA
COPY OF THIS RESOLUTION TO THE MAYOR OF MIAMI-DADE COUNTY
AND THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OF MIAMI-DADE
COUNTY.
City of Miami Page 85 Printed on 10/5/2015
City Commission
Meeting Minutes September 10, 2015
RE.12
15-01129
District 4-
Commissioner
Francis Suarez
15-01086b-Submittal-Meg Daly -The Underline PowerPoint Presentation.pdf
Motion by Commissioner Sarnoff, seconded by Commissioner Suarez, that this matter be
ADOPTED PASSED by the following vote.
Votes: Ayes: 5 - Commissioner(s) Gort, Sarnoff, Carollo, Suarez and Hardemon
R-15-0398
Note: Please see File Number 15-01086 for minutes pertaining to
File Number 15-01086b.
RESOLUTION
A RESOLUTION OF THE MIAMI CITY COMMISSION, AUTHORIZING THE
DE -OBLIGATION OF GRANT FUNDS FROM THE DISTRICT4 SHARE OF
THE CITY OF MIAMI'S ANTI -POVERTY INITIATIVE PROGRAM FUNDS,
ACCOUNT NO. 00001.98000.882000.0000.00000 FROM THE MIAMI
FOUNDATION, INC., IN THE TOTAL AMOUNT OF $50,000.00; ALLOCATING
SAID FUNDS TO SUNSHINE FOR ALL, INC. FOR ELDERLY MEALS
ASSISTANCE; AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE THE
NECESSARY DOCUMENT(S), IN A FORM ACCEPTABLE TO THE CITY
ATTORNEY, FOR SAID PURPOSE.
15-01129 Legislation.pdf
Motion by Commissioner Suarez, seconded by Commissioner Carollo, that this matter be
ADOPTED PASSED by the following vote.
Votes: Ayes: 5 - Commissioner(s) Gort, Sarnoff, Carollo, Suarez and Hardemon
R-15-0399
Daniel J. Alfonso (City Manager): Okay, RE.12, I believe, is the last item on the --
Commissioner Suarez: Mr. Chair --
Chair Gort: Commissioner Suarez.
Commissioner Suarez: Thank you. RE.12 is an allocation of Poverty Initiative funds. I've
broken them down into three components. One is for education of children in the technology
space; the second is for job training programs; and the third is for the elderly, which is the
community of our City that cannot in many cases increase their income, and this particular
allocation is for meals subsidy. So with that -- this has been a responsible vendor that's been
providing meals in my district for many years, so I move RE.12.
Commissioner Carollo: Second.
Chair Gort: Been moved and second. Any further discussion? Being none, all in favor, state it
by saying "aye."
The Commission (Collectively): Aye.
Commissioner Suarez: Thank you.
END OF RESOLUTIONS
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City Commission
Meeting Minutes September 10, 2015
ATTORNEY -CLIENT SESSIONS
2:00 P.M.
AC.1 ATTORNEY -CLIENT SESSION
15-01016
Office of the City UNDER THE PARAMETERS OF FLORIDA STATUTES §286.011(8)
Attorney [2014]. THE PERSON CHAIRING THE CITY OF MIAMI COMMISSION
MEETING WILL ANNOUNCE THE COMMENCEMENT OF AN
ATTORNEY -CLIENT SESSION, CLOSED TO THE PUBLIC, FOR
PURPOSES OF DISCUSSING THE PENDING LITIGATION CASE OF
VILLAGE OF KEY BISCAYNE V. CITY OF MIAMI, CASE NO. 15-2997
CA21, PENDING IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE ELEVENTH
JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MIAMI-DADE COUNTY, FLORIDA,
TO WHICH THE CITY IS PRESENTLY A PARTY. THIS PRIVATE
MEETING WILL BEGIN AT APPROXIMATELY 2:00 P.M. (OR AS SOON
THEREAFTER AS THE COMMISSIONERS' SCHEDULES PERMIT)
AND CONCLUDE APPROXIMATELY ONE HOUR LATER. THE
SESSION WILL BE ATTENDED BY THE MEMBERS OF THE CITY
COMMISSION: CHAIRMAN WIFREDO (WILLY) GORT,
VICE-CHAIRMAN KEON HARDEMON, MARC DAVID SARNOFF,
FRANK CAROLLO, AND FRANCIS SUAREZ; CITY MANAGER DANIEL
J. ALFONSO; CITY ATTORNEY VICTORIA MENDEZ; DEPUTY CITY
ATTORNEY JOHN A. GRECO; DEPUTY CITY ATTORNEY BARNABY
L. MIN; AND ASSISTANT CITY ATTORNEY KERRI L. MCNULTY. A
CERTIFIED COURT REPORTER WILL BE PRESENT TO ENSURE
THAT THE SESSION IS FULLY TRANSCRIBED AND THE
TRANSCRIPT WILL BE MADE PUBLIC UPON THE CONCLUSION OF
THE ABOVE -CITED, ONGOING LITIGATION. AT THE CONCLUSION
OF THE ATTORNEY -CLIENT SESSION, THE REGULAR
COMMISSION MEETING WILL BE REOPENED AND THE PERSON
CHAIRING THE COMMISSION MEETING WILL ANNOUNCE THE
TERMINATION OF THE ATTORNEY -CLIENT SESSION.
15-01016 Memo - Office of the City Attorney.pdf
15-01016 Notice to the Public.pdf
DISCUSSED
Victoria Mendez (City Attorney): (UNINTELLIGIBLE) under the provisions of Section
286.011(8) Florida Statutes, I requested that this City Commission meet in private to discuss
pending litigation in the case of Village of Key Biscayne versus City of Miami, Case Number
15-2997-CA-21, pending in the Circuit Court for the 11 th Judicial Circuit. The City Commission
approved my request, and will now at approximately 2 p.m. commence a private attorney -client
session under the parameters of Florida Statute 286.011(8). The private attorney -client session
will conclude at approximately 3 p.m.; at which time, the regular City Commission will resume.
The session will be attended by the members of the City Commission, which include: Chairman
Wifredo "Willy" Gort; Commissioners Keon Hardemon, Marc David Sarnoff, Frank Carollo and
Francis Suarez; the City Manager, Daniel Alfonso; myself the City Attorney; Deputy City
Attorneys John Greco and Barnaby Min; and Assistant City Attorney Kerri McNulty. A certified
court reporter will be present to ensure that this session is fully transcribed and the transcript
will be made public upon the conclusion of the litigation. Thank you.
Todd B. Hannon (City Clerk): And for the record, the meeting stands in recess.
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City Commission
Meeting Minutes September 10, 2015
AC.2
15-01017
Office of the City
Attorney
Ms. Mendez: Thank you.
Later...
Ms. Mendez: (UNINTELLIGIBLE) privilege session has ended. Thank you.
Chair Gort: Thank you.
ATTORNEY -CLIENT SESSION
TO BE WITHDRAWN
UNDER THE PARAMETERS OF FLORIDA STATUTES §286.011(8)
[2014]. THE PERSON CHAIRING THE CITY OF MIAMI COMMISSION
MEETING WILL ANNOUNCE THE COMMENCEMENT OF AN
ATTORNEY -CLIENT SESSION, CLOSED TO THE PUBLIC, FOR
PURPOSES OF DISCUSSING THE PENDING LITIGATION CASE
FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE, MIAMI LODGE NO. 20, ET. AL. v.
CITY OF MIAMI, CASE NO. 98-7760 CA27 PENDING IN THE CIRCUIT
COURT OF THE ELEVENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR
MIAMI-DADE COUNTY, FLORIDA, TO WHICH THE CITY IS
PRESENTLY A PARTY. THIS PRIVATE MEETING WILL BEGIN AT
APPROXIMATELY 2:00 P.M. (OR AS SOON THEREAFTER AS THE
COMMISSIONERS' SCHEDULES PERMIT) AND CONCLUDE
APPROXIMATELY ONE HOUR LATER. THE SESSION WILL BE
ATTENDED BY THE MEMBERS OF THE CITY COMMISSION:
CHAIRMAN WIFREDO (WILLY) GORT, VICE-CHAIRMAN KEON
HARDEMON, MARC DAVID SARNOFF, FRANK CAROLLO, AND
FRANCIS SUAREZ; CITY MANAGER DANIEL J. ALFONSO; CITY
ATTORNEY VICTORIA MENDEZ; DEPUTY CITY ATTORNEY JOHN A.
GRECO; DEPUTY CITY ATTORNEY BARNABY L. MIN; ASSISTANT
CITY ATTORNEYS KEVIN JONES, STEPHANIE PANOFF AND KERRI
L. MCNULTY. A CERTIFIED COURT REPORTER WILL BE PRESENT
TO ENSURE THAT THE SESSION IS FULLY TRANSCRIBED AND THE
TRANSCRIPT WILL BE MADE PUBLIC UPON THE CONCLUSION OF
THE ABOVE -CITED, ONGOING LITIGATION. AT THE CONCLUSION
OF THE ATTORNEY -CLIENT SESSION, THE REGULAR
COMMISSION MEETING WILL BE REOPENED AND THE PERSON
CHAIRING THE COMMISSION MEETING WILL ANNOUNCE THE
TERMINATION OF THE ATTORNEY -CLIENT SESSION.
15-01017 Memo - Office of the City Attorney.pdf
15-01017 Notice to the Public.pdf
Motion by Commissioner Sarnoff, seconded by Commissioner Suarez, that this matter be
WITHDRAWN PASSED by the following vote.
Votes: Ayes: 3 - Commissioner(s) Gort, Sarnoff and Suarez
Absent: 2 - Commissioner(s) Carollo and Hardemon
END OF ATTORNEY -CLIENT SESSIONS
City of Miami Page 88 Printed on 10/5/2015
City Commission
Meeting Minutes September 10, 2015
BC.1
15-01094
RESOLUTION
BOARDS AND COMMITTEES
Office of the City A RESOLUTION OF THE MIAMI CITY COMMISSION APPOINTING
Clerk CERTAIN INDIVIDUALS AS MEMBERS OF THE ARTS AND
ENTERTAINMENT COUNCIL FOR TERMS AS DESIGNATED HEREIN.
APPOINTEES: NOMINATED BY:
Mike Margulies Mayor Tomas Regalado
(term expiring 9/10/2016)
Ian Welsch Chair Wifredo (Willy) Gort
(unexpired term ending 2/12/2016)
15-01094 Arts CCMemo.pdf
15-01094 Arts Current_Board_Members.pdf
Motion by Commissioner Sarnoff, seconded by Commissioner Carollo, that this matter be
ADOPTED PASSED by the following vote.
Votes: Ayes: 4 - Commissioner(s) Gort, Sarnoff, Carollo and Hardemon
Absent: 1 - Commissioner(s) Suarez
R-15-0372
Chair Gort: I think we should go ahead and go into PZ (Planning & Zoning), unless we can go
to the board appointments --
Vice Chair Hardemon: I think -- don't we have to do the boards?
Chair Gort: -- real quick. Go ahead for board appointments.
Victoria Mendez (City Attorney): I think you have a PZ time certain, maybe?
Chair Gort: At 4..30, but we have other ones.
Ms. Mendez: Okay.
Chair Gort: Board appointments. You can do it in ten seconds.
Nicole N. Ewan (Assistant City Clerk): Three minutes. BC.1, Arts & Entertainment Council,
Mayor Regalado will be appointing Mike Margulies, and Chair Gort will be appointing Ian
Welsch.
Chair Gort: Moved by Vice Chairman [sic] Sarnoff.
Commissioner Carollo: Second.
Chair Gort: Second by Commissioner Carollo. All in favor, state it by saying "aye."
City of Miami Page 89 Printed on 10/5/2015
City Commission
Meeting Minutes September 10, 2015
BC.2
14-00964
The Commission (Collectively): Aye.
RESOLUTION
Office of the City A RESOLUTION OF THE MIAMI CITY COMMISSION APPOINTING
Clerk CERTAIN INDIVIDUALS AS MEMBERS OF THE AUDIT ADVISORY
COMMITTEE FOR TERMS AS DESIGNATED HEREIN.
BC.3
15-00854
Office of the City
Clerk
APPOINTEES:
14-00964 Audit CCMemo.pdf
14-00964 Audit Current_Board_Members.pdf
NO ACTION TAKEN
RESOLUTION
NOMINATED BY:
Chair Wifredo (Willy) Gort
Vice Chair Keon Hardemon
Commissioner Marc David Sarnoff
Commissioner Frank Carollo
Commissioner Francis Suarez
A RESOLUTION OF THE MIAMI CITY COMMISSION APPOINTING
CERTAIN INDIVIDUALS AS MEMBERS OF THE BAYFRONT PARK
MANAGEMENT TRUST FOR TERMS AS DESIGNATED HEREIN.
APPOINTEES: NOMINATED BY:
Jesse Manzano Commissioner Francis Suarez
Alex Cardenas Commission At Large
15-00854 Bayfront CCMemo.pdf
15-00854 Bayfront Current_Board_Members.pdf
Motion by Commissioner Carollo, seconded by Vice Chair Hardemon, that this matter be
ADOPTED PASSED by the following vote.
Votes: Ayes: 3 - Commissioner(s) Gort, Carollo and Hardemon
Absent: 2 - Commissioner(s) Sarnoff and Suarez
R-15-0373
Nicole N. Ewan (Assistant City Clerk): BC.3, Bayfront Park Management Trust, Commissioner
Suarez will be reappointing Jesse Manzano.
Commissioner Carollo: I'm sorry, I think there's another one; Alex Cardenas, at -large.
City of Miami Page 90 Printed on 10/5/2015
City Commission
Meeting Minutes September 10, 2015
BC.4
14-00967
Ms. Ewan: Yes, that is correct, and there is one at -large seat for reappointment, and
Commissioner Carollo will be reappointing Alex Cardenas.
Chair Gort: Okay.
Commissioner Carollo: Move it.
Chair Gort: Moved by Commissioner Carollo; second by Vice Chairman Hardemon. Any
further discussion? Being none, all in favor, state it by saying "aye."
The Commission (Collectively): Aye.
RESOLUTION
Office of the City A RESOLUTION OF THE MIAMI CITY COMMISSION CONFIRMING THE
Clerk APPOINTMENT OF CERTAIN INDIVIDUALS AS MEMBERS OF THE
CIVILIAN INVESTIGATIVE PANEL FOR TERMS AS DESIGNATED
HEREIN.
BC.5
15-00412
APPOINTEES:
14-00967 CIP CCMemo.pdf
14-00967 CIP Current_Board_Members.pdf
14-00967 CIP Memo and Resumes.pdf
NO ACTION TAKEN
RESOLUTION
NOMINATED BY:
Civilian Investigative Panel
Civilian Investigative Panel
Civilian Investigative Panel
Civilian Investigative Panel
Office of the City A RESOLUTION OF THE MIAMI CITY COMMISSION APPOINTING
Clerk CERTAIN INDIVIDUALS AS MEMBERS OF THE CODE ENFORCEMENT
BOARD FOR TERMS AS DESIGNATED HEREIN.
APPOINTEES:
(Alternate Member)
(Alternate Member)
15-00412 CEB CCMemo.pdf
15-00412 CEB Current_Board_Members.pdf
NOMINATED BY:
Commission -At -Large
Commission -At -Large
Commission -At -Large
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Meeting Minutes September 10, 2015
NO ACTION TAKEN
BC.6 RESOLUTION
15-01095
Office ofthe City A RESOLUTION OF THE MIAMI CITY COMMISSION APPOINTING
Clerk CERTAIN INDIVIDUALS AS MEMBERS OF THE COMMUNITY
RELATIONS BOARD FOR TERMS AS DESIGNATED HEREIN.
APPOINTEES:
15-01095 CRB CCMemo.pdf
15-01095 CRB Current_Board_Members.pdf
15-01095 CRB Memo and Resumes.pdf
NO ACTION TAKEN
BC.7 RESOLUTION
15-01096
NOMINATED BY:
Chair Wifredo (Willy) Gort
Vice Chair Keon Hardemon
Vice Chair Keon Hardemon
Commissioner Marc David Sarnoff
Commissioner Marc David Sarnoff
Office ofthe City A RESOLUTION OF THE MIAMI CITY COMMISSION APPOINTING A
Clerk CERTAIN INDIVIDUAL AS A MEMBER OF THE COMMISSION ON THE
STATUS OF WOMEN FORATERM AS DESIGNATED HEREIN.
APPOINTEE: NOMINATED BY:
Rosa De Sanchez Chair Wifredo (Willy) Gort
15-01096 CSWCCMemo.pdf
15-01096 CSWCurrent_Board_Members.pdf
Motion by Vice Chair Hardemon, seconded by Commissioner Carollo, that this matter be
ADOPTED PASSED by the following vote.
Votes: Ayes: 3 - Commissioner(s) Gort, Carollo and Hardemon
Absent: 2 - Commissioner(s) Sarnoff and Suarez
R-15-0374
Nicole N. Ewan (Assistant City Clerk): BC.7, Commission on the Status of Women, Chair Gort
will be appointing Rosa De Sanchez.
Vice Chair Hardemon: So move.
City of Miami Page 92 Printed on 10/5/2015
City Commission
Meeting Minutes September 10, 2015
Commissioner Carollo: Second.
Chair Gort: Been moved and second Any further discussion? Being none, all in favor, state it
by saying "aye."
The Commission (Collectively): Aye.
BC.8 RESOLUTION
15-00291
Office ofthe City A RESOLUTION OF THE MIAMI CITY COMMISSION APPOINTING
Clerk CERTAIN INDIVIDUALS AS MEMBERS OF THE EDUCATION ADVISORY
BOARD FOR TERMS AS DESIGNATED HEREIN.
BC.9
15-00415
APPOINTEES:
(Ex-Officio Non Voting Member)
(Ex-Officio Non Voting Youth Member)
15-00291 EAB CCMemo.pdf
15-00291 EAB Current_Board_Members.pdf
NO ACTION TAKEN
RESOLUTION
NOMINATED BY:
City Manager Daniel J. Alfonso
City Manager Daniel J. Alfonso
Office ofthe City A RESOLUTION OF THE MIAMI CITY COMMISSION APPOINTING CERTAIN
Clerk INDIVIDUALS AS MEMBERS OF THE EQUAL OPPORTUNITY ADVISORY
BOARD FOR TERMS AS DESIGNATED HEREIN.
APPOINTEES:
NOMINATED BY:
Chair Wifredo (Willy) Gort
Chair Wifredo (Willy) Gort
Vice Chair Keon Hardemon
Vice Chair Keon Hardemon
Commissioner Marc David Sarnoff
Commissioner Marc David Sarnoff
Commissioner Frank Carollo
Commissioner Frank Carollo
Commissioner Francis Suarez
IAFF
City of Miami Page 93 Printed on 10/5/2015
City Commission
Meeting Minutes September 10, 2015
FOP
AFSCME 1907
AFSCME 871
15-00415 EOAB CCMemo.pdf
15-00415 EOAB Current_Board_Members.pdf
15-00415 EOAB Resume.pdf
NO ACTION TAKEN
BC.10 RESOLUTION
15-01098
Office ofthe City A RESOLUTION OF THE MIAMI CITY COMMISSION APPOINTING A
Clerk CERTAIN INDIVIDUAL AS A MEMBER OF THE FINANCE COMMITTEE
FOR ATERM AS DESIGNATED HEREIN.
APPOINTEE: NOMINATED BY:
Fausto Alvarez Chair Wifredo (Willy) Gort
15-01098 Finance CCMemo.pdf
15-01098 Finance Current_Board_Members.pdf
Motion by Vice Chair Hardemon, seconded by Commissioner Carollo, that this matter be
ADOPTED PASSED by the following vote.
Votes: Ayes: 3 - Commissioner(s) Gort, Carollo and Hardemon
Absent: 2 - Commissioner(s) Sarnoff and Suarez
R-15-0375
Nicole N. Ewan (Assistant City Clerk): BC.10, Finance Committee, Chair Gort will be
reappointing Fausto Alvarez.
Vice Chair Hardemon: So move.
Commissioner Carollo: Second.
Chair Gort: Been moved and second Any further discussion? Being none, all in favor, state it
by saying "aye."
The Commission (Collectively): Aye.
BC.11 RESOLUTION
15-01099
Office ofthe City A RESOLUTION OF THE MIAMI CITY COMMISSION APPOINTING A
Clerk CERTAIN INDIVIDUAL AS A MEMBER OF THE HISTORIC AND
ENVIRONMENTAL PRESERVATION BOARD FOR A TERM AS
DESIGNATED HEREIN.
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City Commission
Meeting Minutes September 10, 2015
APPOINTEE/CATEGORY: NOMINATED BY:
Jonathan Gonzalez
(Alternate Member that Qualified Under
One of the Categories - Category 8)
15-01099 HEP CCMemo.pdf
15-01099 HEP Current_Board_Members.pdf
15-01099 HEP Applications.pdf
15-01099 HEP Application Summary.pdf
Commissioner Francis Suarez
Motion by Commissioner Carollo, seconded by Vice Chair Hardemon, that this matter be
ADOPTED PASSED by the following vote.
Votes: Ayes: 3 - Commissioner(s) Gort, Carollo and Hardemon
Absent: 2 - Commissioner(s) Sarnoff and Suarez
R-15-0376
Nicole N. Ewan (Assistant City Clerk): BC.11, Historic Environmental [sic] & Preservation
Board, Commissioner Suarez will be appointing Jonathan Gonzalez as an alternate member who
qualified as an architect.
Commissioner Carollo: Move it.
Vice Chair Hardemon: Second.
Chair Gort: Been moved by Commissioner Carollo; second by Vice Chairman Hardemon. All in
favor, state it by saying "aye."
The Commission (Collectively): Aye.
BC.12 RESOLUTION
15-00418
Office of the City A RESOLUTION OF THE MIAMI CITY COMMISSION APPOINTING
Clerk CERTAIN INDIVIDUALS AS MEMBERS OF THE MAYOR'S
INTERNATIONAL COUNCIL FOR TERMS AS DESIGNATED HEREIN.
APPOINTEES: NOMINATED BY:
Jose Fuentes Mayor Tomas Regalado
Barry Johnson Mayor Tomas Regalado
Armando Rodriguez Mayor Tomas Regalado
15-00418 MIC CCMemo.pdf
15-00418 MIC Current_Board_Members.pdf
Motion by Vice Chair Hardemon, seconded by Commissioner Carollo, that this matter be
ADOPTED PASSED by the following vote.
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Meeting Minutes September 10, 2015
Votes: Ayes: 3 - Commissioner(s) Gort, Carollo and Hardemon
Absent: 2 - Commissioner(s) Sarnoff and Suarez
R-15-0377
Nicole N. Ewan (Assistant City Clerk): BC 12, Mayors International Council, Mayor Regalado
will be reappointing Jose Fuentes, Barry Johnson and Armando Rodriguez.
Vice Chair Hardemon: So move.
Commissioner Carollo: Second.
Chair Gort: It's been moved by Vice Chairman Hardemon; second by Commissioner Carollo.
All in favor, state it by saying "aye."
The Commission (Collectively): Aye.
BC.13 RESOLUTION
15-00586
Office of the City A RESOLUTION OF THE MIAMI CITY COMMISSION APPOINTING
Clerk CERTAIN INDIVIDUALS AS MEMBERS OF THE MIAMI SPORTS AND
EXHIBITION AUTHORITY FOR TERMS AS DESIGNATED HEREIN.
APPOINTEES:
NOMINATED BY:
Chair Wifredo (Willy) Gort
Commissioner Marc David Sarnoff
Commissioner Marc David Sarnoff
Commissioner Frank Carollo
Commissioner Frank Carollo
15-00586 MSEACCMemo.pdf
15-00586 MSEA Current_Board_Members.pdf
NO ACTION TAKEN
BC.14 RESOLUTION
15-00420
Office of the City A RESOLUTION OF THE MIAMI CITY COMMISSION APPOINTING A
Clerk CERTAIN INDIVIDUAL AS A MEMBER OF THE PARKS AND RECREATION
ADVISORY BOARD FOR ATERM AS DESIGNATED HEREIN.
APPOINTEE: NOMINATED BY:
Commissioner Marc David Sarnoff
15-00420 PRAB CCMemo.pdf
15-00420 PRAB Current_Board_Members.pdf
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Meeting Minutes September 10, 2015
NO ACTION TAKEN
BC.15 RESOLUTION
15-01100
Office of the City A RESOLUTION OF THE MIAMI CITY COMMISSION APPOINTING A
Clerk CERTAIN INDIVIDUAL AS A MEMBER OF THE PLANNING, ZONING AND
APPEALS BOARD FORATERMAS DESIGNATED HEREIN.
APPOINTEE: NOMINATED BY:
Vice Chair Keon Hardemon
15-01100 PZAB CCMemo.pdf
15-01100 PZAB Current_Board_Members.pdf
15-01100 PZAB Applications.pdf
DISCUSSED
Vice Chair Hardemon: BC -- I'm sorry, what are we -- BC.15, I believe I have some choices,
don't I?
Nicole N. Ewan (Assistant City Clerk): Yes; that's Planning, Zoning & Appeals Board,
Commissioner. We do have to notice that five days before the meeting.
Vice Chair Hardemon: You have to notice the appointment?
Ms. Ewan: Yes, that is correct.
Vice Chair Hardemon: Even though they've already applied, yeah?
Ms. Ewan: That is correct, per the section of the Code.
Vice Chair Hardemon: Okay, no problem.
Ms. Ewan: Okay. Thank you. That concludes the boards, Chair. Thank you.
Chair Gort: Thank you very much. Record time.
Commissioner Suarez: That was quick. Wow. Making you look bad, Todd.
BC.16 RESOLUTION
15-00588
Office of the City A RESOLUTION OF THE MIAMI CITY COMMISSION APPOINTING
Clerk CERTAIN INDIVIDUALS AS MEMBERS OF THE URBAN DEVELOPMENT
REVIEW BOARD (UDRB) FOR TERMS AS DESIGNATED HEREIN.
APPOINTEES:
NOMINATED BY:
Chair Wifredo (Willy) Gort
Chair Wifredo (Willy) Gort
Vice Chair Keon Hardemon
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City Commission
Meeting Minutes September 10, 2015
Commissioner Marc David Sarnoff
Commissioner Marc David Sarnoff
Commissioner Frank Carollo
Commissioner Frank Carollo
Commissioner Francis Suarez
15-00588 UDRB CCMemo.pdf
15-00588 UDRB Current_Board_Members.pdf
NO ACTION TAKEN
BC.17 RESOLUTION
15-01101
Office of the City A RESOLUTION OF THE MIAMI CITY COMMISSION APPOINTING
Clerk CERTAIN INDIVIDUALS AS MEMBERS OF THE VIRGINIA KEY BEACH
PARK TRUST FOR TERMS AS DESIGNATED HEREIN.
BC.18
15-01102
Office of the City
Clerk
APPOINTEES:
NOMINATED BY:
Chair Wifredo (Willy) Gort
Commissioner Marc David Sarnoff
Commissioner Frank Carollo
15-01101 VKBPT CCMemo.pdf
15-01101 VKBPT Current_Board_Members.pdf
NO ACTION TAKEN
RESOLUTION
A RESOLUTION OF THE MIAMI CITY COMMISSION APPOINTING
CERTAIN INDIVIDUALS AS MEMBERS OF THE WATERFRONT
ADVISORY BOARD FOR TERMS AS DESIGNATED HEREIN.
APPOINTEES: NOMINATED BY:
William Kearney Mayor Tomas Regalado
Steven Wernick Commissioner Francis Suarez
15-01102 WAB CCMemo.pdf
15-01102 WAB Current_Board_Members.pdf
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Meeting Minutes September 10, 2015
Motion by Vice Chair Hardemon, seconded by Commissioner Carollo, that this matter be
ADOPTED PASSED by the following vote.
Votes: Ayes: 3 - Commissioner(s) Gort, Carollo and Hardemon
Absent: 2 - Commissioner(s) Sarnoff and Suarez
R-15-0378
Nicole N. Ewan (Assistant City Clerk): BC.18, Waterfront Advisory Board, Mayor Regalado will
be reappointing William Kearney and Commissioner Suarez will be reappointing Steven Wernick.
Vice Chair Hardemon: So moved.
Commissioner Carollo: Second.
Chair Gort: Been moved by Vice Chairman Hardemon; second by Commissioner Carollo. Any
further discussion? Being none, all in favor, state it by saying "aye."
The Commission (Collectively): Aye.
END OF BOARDS AND COMMITTEES
DISCUSSION ITEMS
DI.1 DISCUSSION ITEM
15-00726
City Commission STATUS OF HIRING POLICE OFFICERS.
NO ACTION TAKEN
DI.2 DISCUSSION ITEM
15-01022
City Manager's Office DISCUSSION REGARDING THE CITY OF MIAMI'S PROPOSED 2015
STRATEGIC PLAN UPDATE.
15-01022 Summary Form.pdf
15-01022 Strategic Plan.pdf
NO ACTION TAKEN
DI.3 DISCUSSION ITEM
15-01049
District 2- UPDATE ON KENNEDY PARK BATHROOMS AND FOUNTAINS.
Commissioner Marc
David Sarnoff
15-01049 E-Mail - Discussion Item.pdf
DI.4
15-01050
NO ACTION TAKEN
DISCUSSION ITEM
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Meeting Minutes September 10, 2015
District2- UPDATE ON D2 CITY PARK REMEDIATION: BILLIE ROLLE PARK AND
Commissioner Marc DOUGLAS PARK.
David Sarnoff
DI.5
15-01038
District 4-
Commissioner
Francis Suarez
DI.6
15-01155
15-01050 E-Mail - Discussion Item.pdf
NO ACTION TAKEN
DISCUSSION ITEM
DISCUSSION REGARDING IMPACT FEES AND INCLUSION OF MOBILITY
AND TRANSPORTATION AS FEE CATEGORY.
15-01038 E-Mail - Discussion Item.pdf
NO ACTION TAKEN
DISCUSSION ITEM
District2- DISCUSSION REGARDING FUTURE FUNDING FOR THE UNDERLINE
Commissioner Marc PROJECT.
David Sarnoff
DI.7
15-01162
15-01155 E-Mail - Discussion Item.pdf
15-01155-Submittal-Meg Daly -The Underline PowerPoint Presentation.pdf
DISCUSSED
Note: Please see item RE.11 for minutes pertaining to item DI.6
DISCUSSION ITEM
District 3- DISCUSSION REGARDING A TRANSPORTATION IMPACT FEE BENEFIT
Commissioner Frank DISTRICT WHICH BOUNDARY IS IDENTICAL TO THE BOUNDARY OF THE
Carollo CITY.
15-01162 E-Mail -Discussion Item.pdf
DEFERRED
Note for the Record: Item DI.7 was deferred to the September 24, 2015, Planning and Zoning
Commission Meeting.
END OF DISCUSSION ITEMS
PART B: PLANNING AND ZONING ITEMS
Chair Gort: Planning & Zoning.
Commissioner Suarez: In a good way.
Daniel J. Alfonso (City Manager): Okay, so we'll do Planning & Zoning? All right.
Victoria Mendez (City Attorney): We will now begin the Planning & Zoning items and state the
procedures to be followed for this portion of the meeting. Planning & Zoning shall proceed
according to Section 7.1.4 of the Miami 21 Zoning Code. Before any PZ (Planning & Zoning)
item is heard, all those wishing to speak must be sworn in by the City Clerk. Please note,
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Meeting Minutes September 10, 2015
Commissioners have been briefed by City staff and the City Attorney on items on the agenda
today. The members of the City Commission shall disclose any ex parte communications to
remove the presumption of prejudice, pursuant to Florida Statute Section 286.011(5) and Section
7.1.4 of the Miami 21 Zoning Code. Staff will briefly present each item to be heard for
applications requiring City Commission approval. The applicants will then present its
application or request to the City Commission. If the applicant agrees with the staff
recommendation and no one from the public wishes to speak for or against the item, the City
Commission may proceed to its deliberation and decision. The applicant may also waive the
right to an evidentiary hearing on the record. For appeals, the appellant will present its appeal
to the City Commission, followed by the appellee. Staff will be allowed to make any
recommendation they may have, and the public may speak, as stated before. The order of
presentation shall also be described in the City Code and the Miami 21 Code. Members of the
public will be permitted to speak through the Chair for not more than two minutes each unless
modified by the Chair. The City of Miami requires that anyone requesting action by the City
Commission must disclose before the hearing anything provided to anyone for agreement to
support or withhold objection to the requested action, pursuant to City Code Section 2-8. Any
documents offered the City Commissioners that have not been provided seven days before the
meeting as part of the agenda materials will be entered into the record at the City Commission's
discretion. Thank you.
Chair Gort: Thank you, ma'am. Mr. Clerk.
Todd B. Hannon (City Clerk): Good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen. If you will be speaking on
any of today's Planning & Zoning items, may I please have you stand and raise your right hand?
The City Clerk administered the oath required under City Code Section 62-1 to those persons
giving testimony on zoning issues.
Mr. Hannon: Thank you, Chair.
Chair Gort: Thank you very much. Francisco, we have a time certain at 4:30, so we'll not be
hearing that until 4:30.
Francisco Garcia (Director, Office of Planning): That is correct.
Chair Gort: You got any deferrals?
Mr. Garcia: We do, sir. We are aware of one at present, and I believe the appellant is here to
speak on it himself. This would be on item PZ.7, which is an appeal of a Historic &
Environmental Preservation Board decision for a property located at 3985 Loquat Avenue, and I
believe the appellant seeks a continuance to a date certain of October 22, which is the Planning
& Zoning meeting of the month of October. We are recommending approval, sir.
Chair Gort: Okay. There's a request for deferral till October 2 [sic] meeting.
Commissioner Suarez: Move it.
Chair Gort: Been moved by Commissioner Suarez.
Vice Chair Hardemon: Second.
Chair Gort: Second by Vice Chairman Hardemon. All in favor, state it -- anyone in the public
would like to address this issue? Seeing none, hearing none, all in favor, state it by saying
"aye."
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The Commission (Collectively): Aye.
Mr. Garcia: Thank you, sir. Those are all the continuance requests that we are aware of at
present.
Chair Gort: Okay.
Later...
Chair Gort: Next. Francisco.
Francisco Garcia (Director, Planning & Zoning): Yes, sir, one moment.
Chair Gort: She -- I think we have to swear in some people. We got new people coming in.
Mr. Hannon: Excuse me, ladies and gentlemen. If you would be speaking on items PZ.1, 2 and
3, may I please have you stand and raise your right hand if you have not taken the oath yet?
The City Clerk administered the oath required under City Code Section 62-1 to those persons
giving testimony on zoning issues.
Mr. Hannon: Thank you, Chair.
Chair Gort: Thank you, sir.
PZ.1 ORDINANCE
15-00354ct
First Reading
AN ORDINANCE OF THE MIAMI CITY COMMISSION, WITH
ATTACHMENT(S), AMENDING ORDINANCE NO. 10544, AS AMENDED, THE
MIAMI COMPREHENSIVE NEIGHBORHOOD PLAN OF THE CITY OF MIAMI,
PURSUANT TO THE EXPEDITED STATE REVIEW PROCESS SUBJECT TO
§163.3184, FLORIDA STATUTES, BY AMENDING THE INTERPRETATION
OF THE 2020 FUTURE LAND USE MAP WITHIN THE FUTURE LAND USE
ELEMENT AND THE 2020 FUTURE LAND USE MAP SERIES CONTAINED IN
APPENDIX LU-1, TO ESTABLISH THE MIAMI RIVER RESIDENTIAL DENSITY
INCREASE AREA OVERLAY PERMITTING UP TO 400 DWELLING UNITS
PER ACRE, AN AREA GENERALLY BOUNDED BY SOUTHWEST 5TH
STREET AND THE MIAMI RIVER ON THE NORTH, THE METRO RAIL ON
THE EAST, SOUTHWEST 3RDAVENUE ON THE WEST AND SOUTHWEST
7TH STREET ON THE SOUTH, MIAMI, FLORIDA, AS DEPICTED IN EXHIBIT
"A", ATTACHED AND INCORPORATED, WHILE MAINTAINING ALL
UNDERLYING FUTURE LAND USE MAP DESIGNATIONS; MAKING
FINDINGS; DIRECTING TRANSMITTALS TO AFFECTED AGENCIES;
CONTAINING A SEVERABILITY CLAUSE, AND PROVIDING FOR AN
EFFECTIVE DATE.
15-00354ct FR Fact Sheet.pdf
15-00354ct Analysis, Maps, PZAB Reso & Supporting Docs.pdf
15-00354ct Legislation (v2).pdf
15-00354ct Exhibit.pdf
15-00354ct-Submittal-Melissa Tapanes-Presentation for Miami River SAP - Copy.pdf
15-00354ct-Submittal-Bret Bibeau-Recommendation to approve Miami River SAP with conditions.'
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Meeting Minutes September 10, 2015
LOCATION: Miami River Residential Density Increase Area; generally bounded
by SW 5th Street and the Miami River on the north, the Metro Rail on the east,
SW 3rd Avenue on the west and SW 7th Street on the south [Commissioner
Frank Carollo - District 3]
APPLICANT(S): Daniel J. Alfonso, City Manager, on behalf of the City of Miami
FINDING(S):
PLANNING DEPARTMENT: Recommended approval.
PLANNING, ZONING AND APPEALS BOARD: Recommended approval on
June 3, 2015, by a vote of 11-0.
PURPOSE: This will amend policies of the "Interpretation of the 2020 Future
Land Use Map" and "The 2020 Future Land Use Map Series" of the City's
Comprehensive Plan to establish the Miami River -Residential Density Increase
Area permitting up to 400 dwelling units per acre.
Motion by Commissioner Carollo, seconded by Commissioner Suarez, that this matter be
PASSED ON FIRST READING PASSED by the following vote.
Votes: Ayes: 5 - Commissioner(s) Gort, Sarnoff, Carollo, Suarez and Hardemon
Chair Gort: Francisco.
Francisco Garcia (Director, Planning & Zoning): Yes, sir. Briefly, by way of introduction -- and
I know that the applicants have a detailed presentation to make -- 171 simply say that these are
companion items, PZ.1, PZ.2 and PZ.3, which are, correspondingly, the comprehensive plan
change needed, the Miami River Special Area Plan itself, as well as the development agreement
for a project to be known as "Miami River Special Area Plan." 1'll give you approximately the
location of the project. It is located in the -- approximately 10 acres of land between Southwest
7th Street to the south, Southwest 2nd Avenue to the east, Southwest 3rd Avenue to the west; and
it includes the eastern portion of the Jose Marti Park, where there would be some improvements
as well, and the other boundary happens to be the Miami River. It is, as proposed, a mixed use
project, consisting of various phases, which include, among others, four towers between 58 and
60 stories, approximately 4,181, 000 square feet, including residential units, 1,678 of them
lodging units, 330 of them, and 66,541 square feet of office space. Again, there are other details,
including a marina, boat slips, et cetera. This is in land that is presently mostly vacant and in
great need of redevelopment. Our staff is recommending approval. The Planning & Zoning
Board and all the other lower boards have also reviewed it and recommended approval. 171
defer to the applicants for a presentation, and then I'll be happy to answer any questions you
may have. Thank you.
Chair Gort: Thank you. The public hearing will be opened for 1, 2 and 3; PH.1 [sic], PH.2
[sic], and PH3[sic]. Yes, ma'am, you're recognized.
Melissa Tapanes: Good afternoon. My name is Melissa Tapanes, with the law firm of Bercow
Radell & Fernandez, for the record, 200 South Biscayne Boulevard, Miami. I have the pleasure
to represent CG Miami River, LLC (Limited Liability Company), the owner of 6.2 acres of land
located between the Miami River and Southwest 7th Street, Southwest 2nd and 3rd Avenues, just
east of 1-95 and Jose Marti Park, and across the Miami River from the City's MRC (Miami
Riverside Center) administrative building. Along with our co -applicant, the City of Miami, we're
proud to present to you the Miami River Special Area Plan you can see in the model before you.
This is a billion -dollar investment into the City's Central Business District and Empowerment
Zone, and it is the product of a true public/private partnership with the City of Miami and its
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Meeting Minutes September 10, 2015
many stakeholders, including the Miami River Commission and the Little Havana Neighborhood
Associations. This SAP (Special Area Plan) will transform the Miami River's urban environment
into a dynamic, sustainable and safe mixed use destination that will connect the energy of
downtown and Brickell to the cultural richness of Little Havana. We're joined today by the
principal, Ari Pearl; Kobi Karp, our project architect; George Puig, our landscape architects;
Raymond Jungles, our landscape designer; Adrian Dukowsky, our traffic engineer; Nick
Zwemer, with Coastal Systems, our marine engineer; and my colleagues, Jeff Bercow and Carli
Koshal. In light of today's agenda, I'll keep our presentation abbreviated. We have had
comprehensive outreach efforts with the many neighborhood groups. It's consisted over a couple
dozen public meetings that are listed before you with the appropriate dates, stemming back to
May of 2014. As Mr. Garcia mentioned, there are three items before you. The first is a land use
plan amendment, and the goal here is to establish a new residential density increase area that
will allow four towers to be constructed there today as of right, up to 60 stories, but the goal of
the residential density increase area is to provide for the appropriate mixed use balance of
residential to complement what is already permitted as of right; office, retail, and hotels. The
goal is to create a truly sustainable neighborhood. Approval of this residential density increase
area will provide a sound transition between what is in the downtown and Brickell, 1,500 units
per acre, to what is to the south of the Little Havana, providing for 200 units per acre. The
residential density increase area also serves to decrease the impacts on infrastructure; for
example, traffic is significantly reduced, and you can see before you the net reduction in trips.
We have -- had been reviewed by the City, as well as the City's outside traffic engineering
consultant, and received a sufficiency letter. Approval of the residential density increase area
will also reduce the impacts on water and sewer capacity. Those numbers are before you. We
have vested the complete build out of the property for purposes of school concurrency by
Miami -Dade County Public Schools. That is before you as well. The second item is the special
area plan, and this consists of both the regulating plan and a development agreement. You can
see before you what is the SAP. It consists of 6.2 acres of privately owned land that will be
developed in five phases with four towers and a retail and entertainment destination along the
Miami River, as well as four acres of City -owned lands, which will be improved by streetscapes,
landscape, hardscapes, and a public river walk. You'll note that the river walk in Jose Marti
Park is included with the SAP but is not -- does not count towards our calculations of density or
open space. You'll note also in this plan that many of what today is privately owned land will
become public as a public river walk, a new shared street, in between 2nd and 3rdAvenues, as
well as new public open spaces with public art. In green, you'll see our robust $21 million public
benefit bonus program. You can also see that there is a regulating plan that serves as the
project's land development regulations that -- and binds the property to development of this plan
before you. This project design is the culmination of thousands of hours by a world -renown
design team led by Kobi Karp, in collaboration with your City of Miami Planning & Zoning staff,
Roman Williams, Kimley Horn, and Raymond Jungles. We are also -- as part of the SAP, we are
bound to a development agreement. This binds the property to the rights and responsibilities of
developing in accordance with this plan. In it, we also covenant to a $21 million public benefit
bonus program that is basically because of as -of -right bonuses that allows us to contribute our
as -of -right, per square foot bonus to the surrounding area. You can see before you our
five phase plan. It is something that has been reviewed by your City's Capital Improvement
Programs and is the subject of an exhibit in the development agreement. The bottom line is that
this is a billion -dollar project. The hard construction costs associated are estimated to be $925
million. You have impact fees estimated at over $24 million. This SAP will not only benefit the
neighborhood but also the City coffers as well, in light of today's budget hearings. Today, this
project generates about $520,000 in ad valorem taxes at build out. We will increase that number
by 99 percent, and it will generate over $41 million per year on an annual recurring basis. In
conclusion, we respectfully request your approval at first hearing of these three items, consistent
with the recommendations of the Miami River Commission, the Urban Design Review Board, the
Planning Zoning Appeals Board, and your professional staff. We received overwhelming support
from the community. Some folks are here today to speak. We ask that all testimony, data and
analysis that has been submitted into the record be incorporated by reference into this agenda
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item. Our entire team is available for questions, and we respectfully request time for rebuttal.
Thank you.
Chair Gort: Thank you, ma'am. Yes, sir.
Todd B. Hannon (City Clerk): First three speakers for items -- PZ items 1, 2 and 3 -- PZ items 1,
2 and 3: Horacio Stuart Aguirre, Jean Theede, and Renita Holmes.
Horacio Stuart Aguirre: Chairman Gort, City Commissioners. Horacio Stuart Aguirre, as
chairman of the Miami River Commission, offices at 1406 Northwest 7th Street. With me here is
managing director of the River Commission, Mr. Brett Bibeau. Mr. Bibeau will read a letter
from the Miami River Commission to the Commissioners to you. It's been mailed to you. My
remarks will be brief. This is perhaps the most exciting project the Miami River Commission has
reviewed in terms of residential development in the last 10 years. This project is breezy, it's airy,
it's light, it's uncongested, unlike most of the projects that you see here that appear to be nothing
but 82-storybrick dominos. This one is styled. It has architectural styling in a way that gives you
the impression from almost every angle that there is more sky light going through the buildings,
in between buildings than there actually is building and structure. I think it's very exciting that
the money from the development is coming back to a renaissance for Jose Marti Park. Unlike
most projects where all the money goes somewhere else, this money is actually staying right in
the neighborhood. I commend the City of Miami for being a co -applicant and for Kevin, from
Parks & Rec (Recreation), and from the CIP. And for Danny Alfonso and for Francisco, you put
together a great package for Jose Marti Park, which will be a great contribution to the
neighborhood. Yep, Kevin did it, and congratulations to Kevin, so Kevin, pay attention. There
he is. Kevin, that you, boy. All right, so City Commissioners, I strongly support this as an
individual, but more importantly, as Commission chairman for the Miami River Commission.
Thank you, sir.
Chair Gort: Thank you. Next.
Brett Bibeau: Brett Bibeau, managing director of the Miami River Commission, with offices
located a 1407 Northwest 7th Street. Good afternoon, honorable City Commission. The Miami
River Commission adopted a resolution on October 6, 2014, finding the Miami River mixed use
development plan, as was presented, to be consistent with the Miami River Greenway Action
Plan and the Miami River Corridor Urban Infill Plan, subject to the following three conditions:
Number one, consistent with the current draft development agreements, Exhibit "G, " utilize the
public benefit funding within this high density developments impacted area, the Miami River
District; number two, should latitude on the river fail to fund and construct the small approved
public river walk section connecting latitude on the rivers, public river walk with the recently
enhanced public river walk beneath the southeast side of the 2ndAvenue Bridge, then utilize a
portion of this available Miami River public benefit funding for this important and needed public
river walk connector, which we consider Plan "B." The Miami River Commission appreciates
the City of Miami latitude on the river andNeo Vertika's recent mutual efforts to bring Plan "A"
to fruition, constructing the aforementioned needed public river walk connector without using
the Miami River SAP public benefit funding. Number three, utilize the phase one, 5.5 million of
public benefit funding into a trust or bond to be used to construct the public river walk if the
riverfront phase two is not constructed. The intent of this condition, established on October 6,
2014, is addressed in the following subsequent addition inserted into the draft development
agreement. Prior to the issuance of the temporary certificate of occupancy for phase one, the
developer shall record a notice of commencement and commence construction of a public river
walk on phase two of the property. Please note, the specifics of the proposed Jose Marti Park
improvements were again presented at the Miami River Commission's July 3, 2015 public
meeting, and the Miami River Commission again recommended approval at that time. I sincerely
appreciate the City of Miami and private sector's excellent development team for bringing this
wonderful mixed use development and significant public benefit investment to the Miami River
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Meeting Minutes September 10, 2015
District. Your time and support for the Miami River District are appreciated. Thank you.
Chair Gort: Thank you. Next. Yes, ma'am.
Ms. Theede: My mind is blown. This project should be the gold standard for the City of Miami
all over the City of Miami. It is absolutely magnificent.
Chair Gort: Your name and address.
Ms. Theede: And I live a block from there, and I'm going to sell my property and go live there.
Chair Gort: Name and address.
Ms. Theede: 150 Southwest 7th Street. I'm really, really pleased, because we have needed
something that continues to make Miami alive. And pardon me, but my ancestors fought for this
country, and the preamble of our constitution states, This government is responsible for the
security of our borders against foreign invasion. "That's the first sentence. And the second
sentence says, "The government shall be responsible for the welfare of the people. Therefore,
any level of government should take into consideration what the people have to endure. "And I
think this is something that is absolutely incredibly beautiful. And I'm so happy that they're
building, because, like I said, I'm 86 now. There's going to come a time when I can't take care of
all the property I got, and I want a nice place to live. Thank you so very much.
Chair Gort: Thank you. Next.
Renita Holmes: Madam Renita Holmes, at 350 Northwest 4th Street. In -- continuing in interest
of the building of the river, which is four blocks east of me, and what's been there several years,
and understanding that the Planning & Zoning now has vital importance, I'm just concerned
about the other impacts. And I like when people say `public benefits, " but -- and comprehensive
outreach. I haven't heard much from anyone. I've been visiting, and I'd like to thank the City
Manager, and I thank Mr. Garcia when I'm there, but getting this board and this committee to
follow up. Mr. Chair, you shook my hand and said they would. I'm very diligent, as you can see.
I like that, but there are some factors here about this river, from my perspective. I can't see.
That's not always important. But when you see the intense traffic that's coming, and the issue we
just had, the same thing with the Miami 21, and I think about my kids that live across the block.
Some of them still come to Overtown in the park. A lot of them -- because that's where there is
some affordable housing. I'm wondering what the real public benefit is, when I see the
(UNINTELLIGIBLE) is going have an impact, but recognizing that since we started redoing the
river, we've got rats, women's underwear, and other type of foul things I won't mention still
coming into the river. There's a concern about climate, and I even see the fish in the river have
changed; the smell along the river has changed. So as we increase density, as we increase
traffic, I'd like to know how comprehensive is it -- and the information, how available and
accessible is the information on how it's changing the environment. You know, there was
something about neighborhood plan, not just the neighborhood abutted or encroached or -- that
may be susceptible to some other things. I think it takes a lot more, and coming to the Planning
& Zoning to give people several use rights when the rest of us have no real comprehensive
understanding, input, it's becoming to be that used car sale kind of pitch when it comes to
building along the river, but my biggest concern is that, environmentally, are we able to
withstand that type of density, that type of height and all of that? We have to have some other
questions answered as the neighbors and as the current taxpayers, and I have not had that
presentation addressed.
Chair Gort: Thank you, ma'am. Next.
Mr. Hannon: Next three speakers: Adrian Madriz, Barbara Rodriguez, and Arva Jain.
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Adrian Madriz: Hello. My name is Adrian Madriz. I live at 1841 Northwest 1st Court, Miami,
Florida 33136. This is a very large development that's going to be happening on the river, and I
heard in the presentation a lot of wonderful things about how it's going to look and all of the
amenities it's going to offer, but I'm very concerned at how it is this project is going to affect the
affordability of the surrounding area, and I would like to know what the developer is planning to
do to preserve affordability; and also to expand the amount of affordable housing stock,
especially considering that there are over 70,000 people on the public housing waiting list, and
probably a considerable amount more than that that are actually in need of affordable housing in
the City of Miami. And so, yes, it's great that yet another luxury set of condos are being built,
and it's great that we're using our incredibly valuable public resources on waterfront properties
to build even more luxury condominiums. But when are we going to actually start using the
profits, using the tax revenues from these kinds of projects to actually benefit the community that
has been waiting and waiting for the longest for solutions to the very basic problems that they
are still facing, problems like rats and roaches in their buildings that aren't even approaching
luxury? When are we going to try to resolve those issues, and when are we going to address
those problems? I'm hoping that with the 42 million I think I heard in the presentation that's
going to be raised in tax revenue from this project that we'll actually see some of that revenue
going towards that cause. But it would be even better if this project were to somehow allow for
the creation of affordable housing on its property, or if it were to have some kind of workforce
housing including as part of the project. It certainly seems to be generating the amount of
money that would justify being able to build those kinds of developments. So I just want to make
sure that we are actually going to do that. Yes.
Chair Gort: Thank you, sir.
Mr. Madriz: Thank you.
Chair Gort: Thank you. Next.
Barbara Rodriguez: Good afternoon. Barbara Rodriguez, 411 Southwest 9th Street, Miami,
33130. Mr. Chair, members of the Commission, I am a resident -- or I live about four blocks
away from the actual development. I live by -- on 4th Avenue and 9th Street. I've been to several
of the outreach meetings, so I can attest that the developer and their -- the law firm they've
retained has done public outreach. I've seen some presentations of what they're doing for public
infrastructure as it relates to Jose Marti Park. It is extremely exciting. The developer's willing to
invest dollars to Jose Marti Park, and if you're familiar with the area, there are very few parks
that could -- that residents in the City of Miami can -- in that area can attest to. We have a small
park close to me, which is Triangle Park. It's very small. Other than that, there's nowhere where
children and families can go on a Sunday. The exciting part of this, apart from the park, is the
river walk on -- Miami's become a very running community, and I see members of the Brickell
Running Club running through there into Jose Marti Park. Other than that, the road
infrastructure. They're doing some major road improvements in the surrounding area. And if
you knew what was there before, there were some abandoned homes in the surrounding area that
brought a lot of homelessness; there was a lot of trashing of the back streets, and they're going to
revitalize the area. And I think the park is going to not only service the members of the City of --
all of City of Miami, of course, but not only Brickell, but Little Havana, which is going to bring
our community together, per se, andl respectfully request the approval ofPZ.1, 2 and 3. Thank
you, and have a great day.
Chair Gort: Thank you. Next.
Arva Jain: Hello, Chairman, Commissioners. Arva Jain. I live at 720 Northeast 69th Street,
Miami, Florida. I'm here to speak on behalf of the project, in support of the project. First, it's a
beautiful project, and to the community that spoke of some of the concerns, and those are
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concerns I think the Commissioners have to address on an ongoing basis. I can say that. I want
to commend not just the design, but the outreach that the developer did, and the way the City
worked together to make sure that the public benefits stayed in the community. I think you guys
set the bar on what should be asked of more developers to do, so I thank you for that. This is one
reason -- the thought of this project being in the neighborhood is one reason why I bought in the
neighborhood. I think that, you know, if people really understood and looked at the public
benefits program, I think that they would be surprised how much of it is staying in the
neighborhood, even down to providing security in the park, which I think is a very big issue for
those of us that live and reside there. I was there at some of the outreach meetings with Marta
and some other people, and I can tell you that good things came out of it. To Marta and the
people in Little Havana, I think your time spent was -- shows in the work, and so I thank, again,
the developer for doing such a good job. And I'm -- I hope that you guys can break ground soon.
Thank you.
Chair Gort: Thank you. Next.
Nicole N. Ewan (Assistant City Clerk): Chair, the last two speakers I have signed up for PZ.1, 2
and 3 are Martha Zayas and Meg Daly.
Marta Zayas: Hi. Thank you. I will say that I'm very appreciative for the outreach that has
been done to the community in many occasions, and the open communication. Whether my
personal opinion is that we should try to keep the river in a more downscaled and quaint as
possible is one thing, but understanding that we have what we have, I do want to say that part of
the proposal has been to try to give the area of Little Havana more parks; and the developer, as
part of the benefits package, is willing to help make that happen. Not only improve Jose Marti
Park, but also they're very willing to help, and collaboratively, with the City and our
Commissioners to perhaps try and identifir some of those abandoned homes that we could
perhaps turn into mini parks for the residents of the area. So I would like to have that be one of
our focuses, and then we can continue to work together to try to help find affordable housing in
the area of Little Havana and develop alongside of the luxury buildings some affordable housing.
Thank you.
Chair Gort: Thank you, ma'am.
Meg Daly: My name is Meg Daly, 1004 Cotorro Avenue. I'm really coming to speak on behalf
of the Vision. I showed you all a map earlier, a map of connectivity. And I want to commend the
Miami River Commission on creating a river walk as we build along our riverfront. The reason
I'm excited about opportunities of connectivity whereas the river walk is built out, as the
underline it's created, as Ludlum Trail goes into place, is you have a core urban vision of
walking and biking. The other thing is I think this development embraces people first. This
vision is the basis of livable, sustainable development, which we need to focus on moving
forward. Thank you.
Chair Gort: Thank you, ma'am. Mr. Mayor.
Mayor Tomas Regalado: Mr. Chairman, Commissioners, I'm just -- want to join in the support
of this project. A year and a half ago, they filmed sort of a documentary on the site that this
project was planned, and we were trying to get a good angle so we don't show blight. At the time
we couldn't, so this is what's the neighborhood will see in the future, and the most important
thing is Jose Marti Park. Jose Marti Park has been the park of the poorest of the poor, and we
need that support for that park. We need that park to be a Sunday park. We need that park to be
an all -day, all-night park, and I want to thank the developers for coming in support of the park.
And of course, I'm here to support the project. Thank you.
Chair Gort: Thank you, sir.
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Ms. Theede: I got to talk again.
Chair Gort: Okay. You (UNINTELLIGIBLE).
Ms. Theede: Southwest 2nd Avenue, between 8th Street and 13th Street is purely affordable
housing, so we do not need any more affordable housing, because it's hurting the local
merchants. Prices there are expensive, and affordable housing cannot afford those expensive
prices. And I think that anybody that speaks against this needs --
Chair Gort: Thank you.
Ms. Theede: -- to come see.
Chair Gort: Thank you. Now close the public hearings and have discussions.
Commissioner Carollo: Mr. Chairman.
Chair Gort: Yes, sir.
Commissioner Carollo: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I'd like to begin by saying that the project,
as it is, it looks beautiful. I mean, the buildings are very beautiful. However, I will tell you that I
have a concern with the density. We're talking -- this is going to be an SAP, special area plan,
and a special area plan requires at least nine acres. You all have 6.2 acres, and the City is
looking to partnering up with you and offer four acres of Jose Marti Park, so I think that that is
an incredible and tangible value that the City is actually providing. When we talk about density,
let's talk a little bit about density, because in all fairness, it will have an impact on a lot of the
residents, not necessarily Brickell, even though it will on Brickell, but also on East Little
Havana, which, by the way, as soon as you cross the 1-95 overpass, underpass, you're talking
that the majority of the properties are T-4. Am I correct, Mr. Garcia?
Mr. Garcia: That is correct, sir.
Commissioner Carollo: And these are, what, T-60?
Mr. Garcia: The subject properties are presently zoned T-6-36.
Commissioner Carollo: T-6-36. And so it's going to be how many stories?
Mr. Garcia: T-6-36, as presently zoned, allows 36 stories as of right, but can go up to 60 stories,
as well.
Commissioner Carollo: And they're thinking of going up to the 60 stories?
Mr. Garcia: Fifty-eight, 60 stories, yes, sir.
Commissioner Carollo: Right. So again, it's a concern. It's a concern where you have T-4;
maybe in the future it'll be T-5, who knows? But the bottom line is it's a big, big, big disparity.
When we talk about units, let me do a little comparable. Brickell City Centre, that is a huge
project that we all know about; and as a matter of fact -- and I work for a CPA (Certified Public
Accountant) firm that has an office on Brickell, 14th and Brickell, very close by there. Ask
everybody how the traffic is, how the traffic conditions are. And when I just hint that there might
be another project of this magnitude possibly coming, everybody's saying, Wow." And I didn't
get into specifics, I didn't talk about it, but everyone's `Another project? Wow, are we actually
going to be able to drive to work at all anymore?"With that said, let me give a little comparison.
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Brickell City Centre has 1,400 residential units. This project, once completed, will have 1,678
units. Brickell City Centre has 385 units, hotel rooms. This one, I'm not really sure, because I
see 330 hotel rooms, and then I see 330 lodging units. I don't know if it's one and the same or if
it's ambiguous in a way where they're going to have 330 lodging units and 330 hotel rooms, and
I'm looking at their page 3 of a letter to you, Mr. Garcia, and I'm talking paragraph -- and I
don't know if you know which letter I'm speaking about.
Mr. Garcia: I can confirm, sir, that the lodging units and hotel units will be one and the same,
so a total of 330, sir.
Commissioner Carollo: Okay. Because here -- I'll read the sentence, why I'm saying that. "In
total, the project will contain approximately 1,678 residential units, 330 lodging units, 66,541
square feet of office space, 330 hotel rooms, and 176,350 square feet of commercial." So that's
why it's -- to me, it's a little ambiguous, so I want to verify that the 330 lodging units is the same
as the 330 hotel units.
Mr. Garcia: On my end, I can state that my understanding is that the 330 lodging units or hotel
units are terms -- are two terms that we use interchangeably, are one in the same, but I would
like to request the applicant to confirm that.
Ms. Tapanes: Confirmed.
Commissioner Carollo: Okay, thank you. So, as you could see, I mean, it's a massive project,
and it's a concern with going from 150 or 200 units per square acre to 400 units per square acre.
You know, it's very dense. And I'll be quite candid with you, and I think if you do a poll out
there, you'll be surprised that they may have the same results. I don't know if the City really has
the infrastructure for this type of project. Listen, I see it's beautiful. I see the public benefit that
you're providing, and I keep hearing `Jose Marti Park, Jose Marti Park, Jose Marti Park." I'm
glad finally everyone's looking at Jose Marti Park, because for many years, no one's been
looking at Jose Marti Park, or Little Havana, for that matter, but it seems to me like Jose Marti
Park will receive $300,000 -- I'm sorry -- yes, $300,000 in phase one. It's until phase four when
they really will be receiving a significant amount of money. Now, I'm all in favor of what the
Miami River Commission wants, which is that river walk, but then again, I mean, according to
their documents, that's a $3.3 million investment on their part, or a public benefit amount on
their part. So I have concerns because if we approve this, it's for 30 years, correct? It's a
30-year -- once --
Ms. Tapanes: In the development agreement.
Commissioner Carollo: And so, if we give you the additional --
Ms. Tapanes: Yes.
Commissioner Carollo: -- per unit per acre -- units per acre, the additional density, it's for 30
years, right? Whatever we approve here on first and second reading is for 30 years?
Ms. Tapanes: The development agreement is a 30-year term, yes.
Commissioner Carollo: Yet, since it's by phases, no money to -- necessarily have to come to Jose
Marti Park for 30 years, 20 years; it depends when they built it, and I guess that's why they're
doing it in phases. So, you know, I want to make sure that the record is clear. There is a lot of
other concerns that I have written in here, and a lot of issues that I think will need to be
addressed. I don't know if today's the right day, and I'll tell you why. I think we're towards the
end of our Commission meeting, but at the same time, we got the whole budget hearing, so I
don't know if today is the right day to start addressing all these issues, because I think it's going
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to be a long, long, long meeting. So I'll yield to my colleagues to see their interpretation. Listen,
I get it. It's beautiful. This Commission has been very pro -development, and I'm not saying that
I haven't been pro -development, but at the same time, it might be a little too much, and that's why
I'm showing my concern. And by the way, Commissioner Sarnoff, with regards to Brickell City
Centre, I know you mentioned earlier today that we have approved many of these projects, and to
a certain degree, you said that, you know, we should provide, you know, some transit relief. It's
not only transit relief; it's fire relief you know, paramedics, it's police. You know, we're adding
an additional 1.6, plus 3 -- we're close to 2,000 additional units, so you know, it's an issue. And
I raise -- especially the traffic issue with regards to Brickell City Centre. So again, I'll yield to
what my colleagues would like. It is first reading, but again, should it pass on first reading,
there's a lot more details that we need to get into.
Chair Gort: You're recognized.
Commissioner Suarez: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. First of all, I want to say thank you, so --
sometimes we don't express our gratitude that a company such as yours would decide to invest
this amount of money and risk in our city, so we want to thank you for that. Secondly, I would
say the density's here, and the density that you can build as of right is significant without any
sort of an SAP needed. That's why we have to plan for the future, and that's part of the reason
why I've advanced the Transportation Trust Fund, and I thank my colleagues for supporting me
on that earlier today, because the density is coming, whether it comes in the form of an SAP,
whether it comes in the form of as -of -right projects, whether it comes in the form of a variety of
other projects. But the fact of the matter is there's probably not any other city in the world that I
can think of that has more contemplated billion -dollar projects in the pipeline than the City of
Miami, and I think that's something that is significant about the potential that people see and
that the world markets see in our city and the future of our city, so that's a wonderful thing. As
for Jose Marti Park, look, I agree that your district -- we've talked about it many times -- is a
district that needs more park space. I think we all acknowledge that. I would ask the Manager
at the next hearing, though, in terms of capital improvement dollars, I think Jose Marti Park --
there's probably one, two or three top parks that has received the most capital improvements
dollars. Maybe Gibson might be behind it. Maybe Grapeland might be behind it. But I can't
think of any other park that has received more capital improvement dollars than Jose Marti,
because for one, they have a suspended gymnasium, which I think was $12 million, ifI'm not
mistaken, and I promise you that none of my parks have $12 million of capital improvement
funds. So Jose Marti, as a park, certainly needs, just like every other park in the City of Miami,
to be maintained and -- you know, it needs a continuous flow of capital dollars, and I think one
of the good things that this project does is begin to think about that. In addition, and I -- it
wasn't stated for some reason, and I think -- could have sworn that I was told this before, that
this project also is going to generate impact fees?
Ms. Tapanes: Of $25 million.
Commissioner Suarez: So in addition to the $20 million of public benefit fees that are outlined
here, it's going to generate another $25 million in impact fees, a big portion of which go to park
acquisition.
Ms. Tapanes: Absolutely.
Commissioner Suarez: And then $40 million a year in revenue in generation for the City. So
look, I understand the density concerns are significant. That's really a pressure that we're feeling
all over the City, which is why we have to sort of start thinking about how we're going to
alleviate that pressure. Construction is certainly a factor. It's been a factor in Brickell City
Centre for sure. But we got to -- we have to start investing in the things that are going to relieve
us of that density pressure, which is mass transit and mobility issues. So I commend you. I think
you've done a tremendous amount of work. I think the City has done a tremendous amount of
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work. And I thank, you know, the people who have -- who are behind this project for their belief
in the City. Thank you.
Ms. Tapanes: Thank you.
Commissioner Suarez: I support the project, obviously.
Ms. Tapanes: Thanks.
Chair Gort: Commissioner Sarnoff.
Commissioner Sarnoff Thank you, Mr. Chair. First off oftentimes, as Commissioner Suarez
says, we just don't thank people who want to develop in our city enough, and first off, thank you
for coming to the City Commission, and thank you for providing what I think is a truly unique
project that I wish was in District 2. If you want to come over to District 2, I will find a place for
you and make sure you can do exactly it is what you want to do. With regard to density, if we're
going to become a city and it's going to be based on new urbanistic principles, we put our
density very, very close in proximity to our central core, and this is exactly where you put it, but
you have it actually in a more unique spot. You're actually on the side of 1-95. You're nestled in
to a place which has, essentially, three forms of possible potential mass transit. You have water,
you have land, and you have 1-95. So from getting in and getting out, you have a very unique
spot, very much akin to District 2 north of the river, which equally will have the same ability that
you have. So as I always say to the developers as they continue to build on Brickell, there's
north of the river as well and a very unique spot, which has the three modes of trap -- you
potentially could have as well. Now, with regard to Brickell City Centre, bear in mind that
Brickell City Centre, to offset some of its problems, Commissioner, has five blocks of
underground. So five blocks of underground is extremely unique to the City of Miami; candidly,
because it's never been done before. Two of those underground units -- or two of those
underground levels will be for parking and one will be to take a person all the way from 7th all
the way to ll th Street. So that's very unique to Brickell City Centre. Brickell City Centre is
going to require new police officers; is going to require new fire officers; is going to require
predominantly those two things, because vertical infrastructure is the most efficient way to of
delivering services. Now, you might say to yourself: "Well, how am I going to pay for that?"
Well, it's pretty simple. Your ad valorem so outstrips your needs that you actually then could
become a donor district. District 2 has been a donor district probably since its inception of
creating District 2, but you have a unique opportunity now to create a new urbanistic feel and a
new urbanistic look in a concept which is called live/work/play, and some people now throw in
learn,'because you should consider an opportunity for some sort of a, you know, educational
facility there so that people can stay within a mile of where they live to move around. So I would
urge you to work with the developer. I would urge you to approve this project. A lot of people
have asked, "How did you do so well for your parks? " Well, there's a tradeoff that's called an
"impact fee." So if you feel impacted you use your impact fee to lessen the impact that comes
about with -- fire has an impact fee, parks has an impact fee. And I've always said and I will
continue to say it -- and I'll be in a very unique position in about 90 days to do this -- impact fees
should stay where the impact is felt. You should enjoy your impact fees. You have a
neighborhood that is growing. Offset that impact, improve your park, improve your fire. I don't
think we have a police impact fee, but --
Chair Gort: Yes.
Commissioner Sarnoff We do?
Commissioner Carollo: Yeah, we do.
Chair Gort: Yes.
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Commissioner Sarnoff We do? Okay.
Chair Gort: (UNINTELLIGIBLE).
Commissioner Sarnoff I didn't think we had a police impact fee. And we will offset those needs
in a vertical manner, and it's good urban planning, so I hope you'll consider this. I think the
architecture [sic], Kobi Karp; is he around?
Ms. Tapanes: Yes.
Commissioner Sarnoff There's Kobi back there. Got to tell you, Kobi: one of your better jobs. I
think it's a great, great, great job, and I think your buildings are especially unique and
architecturally different. And I think Brickell City Centre might think to itself "Hmm, maybe I
should have use Kobi Karp." Just kidding.
Commissioner Suarez: Mr. Chair.
Chair Gort: Thank you. Yes.
Commissioner Suarez: Just real quick, and I don't want this discussion to sort of get derailed in
any way, shape or form, because this is a -- sort of a tangential discussion. But if you'll notice in
the public benefit fees -- and I think the Commissioner made a good argument that the density
affects traffic, so you would think that a good portion of the public benefits should go to some
sort of a Transportation Trust Fund to alleviate the very thing that it causes. And you'll also
notice, if you look at it, that of the $20 million, none of it is going to affordable housing.
Commissioner Carollo: That's exactly my point, which, when I hear what the Little Havana
issues are and I hear that they want pocket parks, with all due respect, that is not what that area
wants. And I could walk door-to-door with you, and I can assure you, what they need is
affordable housing, but we're not there yet. Like I said, I wanted to hear from my colleagues.
And, actually, I like the suggestion that Commissioner Sarnoff made with regards to working
with them. It's coming. I just set the stage with regard to the density. Now, believe me, there's a
lot of issues in here that if you actually read through it, there's a lot of issues we need to discuss,
but anyways --
Chair Gort: Can you wait for the rest of us?
Commissioner Carollo: Yes, absolutely.
Commissioner Suarez: Sure.
Chair Gort: Thank you. Commissioner Hardemon.
Commissioner Carollo: Mr. Chairman, real quick.
Chair Gort: Okay.
Commissioner Carollo: And remember, when we spoke earlier with regards to public benefits,
I'm the one who brought up affordable housing, okay? When we spoke about public benefits and
using public benefit dollars, 20 percent off the top for transportation, I said, "Well, wait a
second, " because of the affordable housing. I'm the one who brought that up, so don't think that
Commissioner Suarez: You didn't forget about it.
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Chair Gort: Thank you. Let me tell you, District 2 is a very nice district, but District 1, we have
the middle of the river between 12th Avenue and 22ndAvenue, so you're welcome to come in
there any time. We'll work with you and the City; make sure we get that done. Let me tell you,
one of the things was mentioned in here that we have to be careful with. We are doing to a
non -for -profit -- we're doing a building in 9th Street, Northwest and Ist Avenue, and it's a mixed
use. We got workforce with market rate, and that's something that maybe you might want to
consider, because what happens is, if we increase all the density and the prices go real high,
where are the workers are going to be? The other thing is that transportation is -- and traffic is
one of the worse problem that we have, but you got a real good thing there. You have the river.
We've been talking about taxi. You have water taxi for a while now. We have the -- we are one of
the city that have most water that we can provide great transportation to our water system, and
we're not using that. I really think that you should consider this in the first reading. In second
reading, you can sit down and negotiate some of those things, but I think you heard from the
Commissioners --
Ms. Tapanes: Thank you.
Chair Gort: -- what we're looking for, and that's my thought.
Commissioner Carollo: Mr. Chairman.
Chair Gort: Yes, sir.
Commissioner Carollo: Real quick, and there might be an opportunity. I heard that one of the
projects that was supposedly going to -- on the river in your district may --
Chair Gort: That's why I mention that.
Commissioner Carollo: -- hit a foreclosure or is under foreclosure, so there might be an
opportunity or future opportunity.
Chair Gort: Yes, ma'am. Anything else?
Commissioner Carollo: Again, I mentioned some of the things on the record. It's first reading. I
really believe, if I start getting into all the details that I have, all the issues that I think we need to
address, we will be here for many, many hours. So I cautiously want to make a motion to
approve, but there is --
Commissioner Suarez: Second.
Commissioner Carollo: -- two readings, so just because I make a motion to approve now doesn't
mean that automatically, the second reading, I'm going to approve.
Commissioner Suarez: Second.
Commissioner Carollo: I just want to make it --
Chair Gort: Thank you.
Commissioner Carollo: -- you know, clear, because there's a lot of other issues that we need to
address that were not mentioned, and one definite one is affordable and workforce housing that
has not been addressed, among others. So that's my motion.
Commissioner Suarez: Second.
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Chair Gort: Okay, there's a motion by Commissioner Carollo; second by Commissioner Suarez.
Any further discussion? Being none, it's an ordinance.
The Ordinance was read by title into the public record Deputy City Attorney Barnaby Min.
Mr. Hannon: Roll call on item PZ.1. Commissioner Sarnoff?
Chair Gort: Sarnoff.
Mr. Hannon: Roll call on item PZ.1.
A roll call was taken, the result of which is stated above.
Mr. Hannon: The ordinance passes on first reading, 5-0.
PZ.2 ORDINANCE
15-00624ap
First Reading
AN ORDINANCE OF THE MIAMI CITY COMMISSION, WITH
ATTACHMENT(S), APPROVING WITH CONDITIONS, PURSUANT TO
ARTICLES 3 AND 7 OF THE MIAMI 21 CODE, THE ZONING ORDINANCE OF
THE CITY OF MIAMI, FLORIDA, AS AMENDED, THE REZONING OF
CERTAIN PARCELS FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF APPROXIMATELY 10.2
ACRES (444,696 SQUARE FEET) INCLUSIVE OF CITY OF MIAMI OWNED
LAND, FOR THE MIAMI RIVER SPECIAL AREA PLAN ("MIAMI RIVER SAP"),
A MIXED USE DEVELOPMENT APPROXIMATELY LOCATED WITHIN THE
BOUNDARIES OF THE MIAMI RIVER TO THE NORTH, SOUTHWEST 7
STREET TO THE SOUTH, SOUTHWEST 2 AVENUE TO THE EAST,
SOUTHWEST 3 AVENUE TO THE WEST, AND THE EASTERN PORTION OF
JOSE MARTI PARK, EXTENDING NORTHWEST OF THE MIAMI RIVER AND
TERMINATING AT SOUTHWEST 2 STREET, MIAMI, FLORIDA, AS
DESCRIBED IN EXHIBIT"A", ATTACHED AND INCORPORATED; THE MIAMI
RIVER SAP CONSISTS OF A PHASED PROJECT DIVIDED INTO FIVE (5)
PARTS WHICH INCLUDES APPROXIMATELY 4,181,087 SQUARE FEET OF
DEVELOPMENT CONSISTING OF THE FOLLOWING: A) APPROXIMATELY
1,678 RESIDENTIAL UNITS; B) APPROXIMATELY 330 LODGING UNITS; C)
APPROXIMATELY 66,541 SQUARE FEET OF OFFICE SPACE; D)
APPROXIMATELY 176,350 SQUARE FEET OF COMMERCIAL USES; E)
APPROXIMATELY 2,376 PARKING SPACES; F) APPROXIMATELY 17 BOAT
SLIPS; G) A MINIMUM OF 35,964 SQUARE FEET OF CIVIC SPACE; AND H)
A MINIMUM OF 15,175 SQUARE FEET OF OPEN SPACE; THE MIAMI RIVER
SAP WILL MODIFY THE TRANSECT ZONE REGULATIONS THAT ARE
APPLICABLE TO THE SUBJECT PARCELS, WHERE A SECTION IS NOT
SPECIFICALLY MODIFIED, THE REGULATION AND RESTRICTION OF THE
MIAMI 21 CODE APPLY; THE NUMBERS OF FEET STATED ABOVE ARE
APPROXIMATE AND MAY INCREASE OR DECREASE BY NOT MORE THAN
FIVE PERCENT (5%) AT THE TIME OF THE BUILDING PERMIT BUT SHALL
NOT EXCEED 4,181,087 SQUARE FEET OF THE DEVELOPMENT;
FURTHER AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO RELEASE THE
FOLLOWING TWO COVENANTS ON THE PROPERTY WHICH ARE NO
LONGER NEEDED: COVENANT RECORDED AT OFFICIAL RECORD BOOK
("ORB") 24997 PAGE 2543, AND AT ORB 24194 PAGE 1806,
RESPECTIVELY, IN THE PUBLIC RECORDS OF MIAMI-DADE COUNTY,
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FLORIDA; MAKING FINDINGS OF FACT AND STATING CONCLUSIONS OF
LAW; PROVIDING FOR BINDING EFFECT; CONTAINING A SEVERABILITY
CLAUSE; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
15-00624ap FR Fact Sheet.pdf
15-00624ap Staff Analysis, Maps & PZAB Reso.pdf
15-00624ap Application & Supporting Docs.pdf
15-00624ap Legislation (v3).pdf
15-00624ap ExhibitA- Exhibit D.pdf
15-00624ap-Submittal-Melissa Tapanes-Presentation for Miami River SAP - Copy.pdf
15-00624ap-Submittal-Bret Bibeau-Recommendation to approve Miami River SAP with conditions.
LOCATION: Approximately located within the boundaries of the Miami River to
the north, Southwest 7 Street to the south, Southwest 2 Avenue to the east,
Southwest 3 Avenue to the west, and the eastern portion of Jose Marti Park,
extending Northwest of the Miami River and terminating at Southwest 2 Street,
Miami, Florida [Commissioner Frank Carollo - District 3]
APPLICANT(S):
Melissa Tapanes Llahues, Esq. on behalf of CG Miami River LLC.
Daniel J. Alfonso, City Manager, on behalf of the City of Miami, as co -applicant.
FINDING(S):
PLANNING AND ZONING DEPARTMENT: Recommended approval with
conditions. See supporting documentation. See companion File ID 15-00624da
and File ID 15-00354ct.
PLANNING, ZONING AND APPEALS BOARD: Recommended approval, with
conditions, on June 3, 2015, by a 10-1 vote.
PURPOSE: This will allow the area to be Master Planned to allow a greater
integration of public improvements and infrastructure and greater flexibility as
part of the "Miami River Special Area Plan (SAP)."
Motion by Commissioner Carollo, seconded by Commissioner Suarez, that this matter be
PASSED ON FIRST READING PASSED by the following vote.
Votes: Ayes: 5 - Commissioner(s) Gort, Sarnoff, Carollo, Suarez and Hardemon
Todd B. Hannon (City Clerk): Is there a motion for PZ.2?
Chair Gort: PZ.2.
Commissioner Carollo: So move.
Commissioner Suarez: Second.
Chair Gort: It's been moved by Commissioner Carollo; second by Commissioner Suarez. Any
further discussion? Being none, it's an ordinance.
The Ordinance was read by title into the public record by Deputy City Attorney Barnaby Min.
Mr. Hannon: Roll call on item PZ.2.
A roll call was taken, the result of which is stated above.
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Mr. Hannon: The item passes on first reading, 5-0.
PZ.3 ORDINANCE First Reading
15-00624da
AN ORDINANCE OF THE MIAMI CITY COMMISSION, WITH
ATTACHMENT(S), APPROVING A DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT,
PURSUANT TO CHAPTER 163, FLORIDA STATUTES, BETWEEN CG MIAMI
RIVER LLC, APPLICANT ENTITY AND THE CITY OF MIAMI, FLORIDA,
RELATING TO THE REZONING OF CERTAIN PARCELS FOR THE
DEVELOPMENT OF APPROXIMATELY 10.2 ACRES FOR THE MIAMI RIVER
SPECIAL AREA PLAN ("MIAMI RIVER SAP"), A MIXED USE DEVELOPMENT,
LOCATED WITHIN THE BOUNDARIES OF THE MIAMI RIVER TO THE
NORTH, SOUTHWEST 7 STREET TO THE SOUTH, SOUTHWEST 2 AVENUE
TO THE EAST, SOUTHWEST 3 AVENUE TO THE WEST, AND THE
EASTERN PORTION OF JOSE MARTI PARK, EXTENDING NORTHWEST OF
THE MIAMI RIVER AND TERMINATING AT SOUTHWEST 2 STREET, MIAMI,
FLORIDA; AS DESCRIBED IN EXHIBIT"A", ATTACHED AND
INCORPORATED; THE MIAMI RIVER SAP CONSISTS OF A DENSITY
INCREASE AREA FROM 200 TO 400 DWELLING UNITS PER ACRE; FOUR
(4) TOWERS BETWEEN 58 AND 60 STORIES, APPROXIMATELY 4,181,087
SQUARE FEET OF DEVELOPMENT CONSISTING OF THE FOLLOWING: A)
APPROXIMATELY 1,678 RESIDENTIAL UNITS; B) APPROXIMATELY 330
LODGING UNITS; C) APPROXIMATELY 66,541 SQUARE FEET OF OFFICE
SPACE; D) APPROXIMATELY 176,350 SQUARE FEET OF COMMERCIAL
USES; E) APPROXIMATELY 2,376 PARKING SPACES; F) APPROXIMATELY
17 BOAT SLIPS; G) A MINIMUM OF 35,964 SQUARE FEET OF CIVIC SPACE;
AND H) A MINIMUM OF 15,175 SQUARE FEET OF OPEN SPACE;
AUTHORIZING THE FOLLOWING USES INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO:
RESIDENTIAL, COMMERCIAL, LODGING, CIVIC, AND ANY OTHER USES
AUTHORIZED BY THE MIAMI RIVER SAP, AND PERMITTED BY THE MIAMI
COMPREHENSIVE NEIGHBORHOOD PLAN, AND THE MIAMI 21 CODE,
THE ZONING ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF MIAMI; AUTHORIZING THE
CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE A DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT, IN
SUBSTANTIALLY THE ATTACHED FORM, FOR SAID PURPOSE;
CONTAINING A SEVERABILITY CLAUSE AND PROVIDING FOR AN
EFFECTIVE DATE.
15-00624da FR Fact Sheet.pdf
15-00624da Legislation (v2).pdf
15-00624da Exhibit A.pdf
15-00624da Exhibit 1.pdf
15-00624da-Submittal-Melissa Tapanes-Presentation for Miami River SAP.pdf
15-00624da-Submittal-Bret Bibeau-Recommendation to approve Miami River SAP with conditions.
LOCATION: Approximately within the boundaries of the Miami River to the
north, Southwest 7 Street to the south, Southwest 2 Avenue to the east,
Southwest 3 Avenue to the west, and the eastern portion of Jose Marti park,
extending Northwest of the Miami River and terminating at Southwest 2 Street
[Commissioner Frank Carollo - District 3]
APPLICANT(S): Melissa Tapanes Llahues, Esq. on behalf of CG Miami River,
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PZ.4
15-00323ct
LLC
FINDING(S):
PLANNING AND ZONING DEPARTMENT: Recommended approval.
PURPOSE: This will authorize the City Manager to enter into a development
agreement for the "Miami River" SAP.
Motion by Commissioner Carollo, seconded by Commissioner Suarez, that this matter be
PASSED ON FIRST READING PASSED by the following vote.
Votes: Ayes: 5 - Commissioner(s) Gort, Sarnoff, Carollo, Suarez and Hardemon
Todd B. Hannon (City Clerk): And last but not least, is there a motion for PZ.3?
Commissioner Carollo: Move it.
Commissioner Suarez: Second.
Chair Gort: Moved by Commissioner Carollo, second by Commissioner Suarez. Any further
discussion? Being none, it's an ordinance.
The Ordinance was read by title into the public record by Deputy City Attorney Barnaby Min.
Mr. Hannon: Roll call on item PZ.3. Commissioner Sarnoff?
Commissioner Sarnoff I'm sorry; could Mr. Min repeat that? Yes.
Mr. Hannon: Vice Chair Hardemon?
Vice Chair Hardemon: For.
Mr. Hannon: Commissioner Suarez?
Commissioner Suarez: Yes.
Mr. Hannon: Commissioner Carollo?
Commissioner Carollo: Yes.
Mr. Hannon: Chair Gort?
Chair Gort: Yes.
Mr. Hannon: The ordinance passes on first reading, 5-0.
Melissa Tapanes: Thank you.
Chair Gort: Thank you. Let's take five minutes -- five-minute break, and then we'll come back
for the budget hearing.
ORDINANCE
Second Reading
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ATTACHMENT(S), AMENDING ORDINANCE NO. 10544, AS AMENDED, THE
MIAMI COMPREHENSIVE NEIGHBORHOOD PLAN OF THE CITY OF MIAMI,
BY AN EXPEDITED STATE REVIEW PROCESS PURSUANT TO SECTION
163.3184(3), FLORIDA STATUTES, BY AMENDING AND ADDING SPECIFIC
GOALS, OBJECTIVES, AND POLICIES OF THE FUTURE LAND USE
INCLUDING POTABLE WATER, COASTAL MANAGEMENT, NATURAL
RESOURCE CONSERVATION, CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS, AND
INTERGOVERNMENTAL COORDINATION ELEMENTS AND
INCORPORATING A 20 YEAR WATER SUPPLY FACILITIES WORK PLAN
UPDATE; AS REQUIRED BY FLORIDA STATUTES, CHAPTER 163.3177(6)
(c)3; MAKING FINDINGS; DIRECTING TRANSMITTALS TO AFFECTED
AGENCIES; CONTAINING A SEVERABILITY CLAUSE, AND PROVIDING FOR
AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
15-00323ct SR Fact Sheet.pdf
15-00323ct PZAB Reso.pdf
15-00323ct Supporting Docs.pdf
15-00323ct Legislation (v3).pdf
15-00323ct Exhibit.pdf
Motion by Commissioner Suarez, seconded by Vice Chair Hardemon, that this matter be
ADOPTED PASSED by the following vote.
Votes: Ayes: 3 - Commissioner(s) Gort, Sarnoff and Hardemon
Absent: 2 - Commissioner(s) Carollo and Suarez
13550
Chair Gort: Okay. PZ.5, I guess, next.
Francisco Garcia (Director, Office of Planning): I believe PZ.4 is available, as well, if you'd
care to proceed. Items PZ.1 through PZ.3 are time certain at 4:30 --
Chair Gort: Right.
Mr. Garcia: -- but PZ.4 is available.
Chair Gort: Okay.
Mr. Garcia: PZ.4 is before you, Commissioners, on second reading. This is a comp plan
amendment. This is for the water supply facility work plan, which is a 20 year water supply
facilities requirement, pursuant to the Comprehension Plan of the City of Miami. This has been
recommended for approval by all of the lower boards, and your staff recommends approval, as
well. I'll be happy to answer any questions if you have any.
Chair Gort: Thank you, sir. It's a public hearing. Anyone in the public would like to address
PZ.4? Anyone in the public would like to address PZ.4? Seeing none, hearing none, we close
the public hearing. Discussions, motions?
Commissioner Suarez: Move it.
Chair Gort: Moved by Commissioner Suarez.
Vice Chair Hardemon: Second.
Chair Gort: Second by Vice Chairman Hardemon. Any further discussion? Being none, all in
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favor, state it by saying "aye."
Todd B. Hannon (City Clerk): Chair, it is an ordinance.
Chair Gort: An ordinance; sorry about that. Second reading.
Victoria Mendez (City Attorney): I'm sorry, one moment. This is PZ.4, correct?
Chair Gort: Yes.
The Ordinance was read by title into the public record by the City Attorney.
Chair Gort: Thank you. Yes, sir.
Mr. Hannon: Roll call on item PZ.4. Commissioner Sarnoff?
Commissioner Sarnoff I'm not going to participate. I need to get off -- oh, wait. I'm your
quorum, right?
Mr. Hannon: We could table the item and come back to it.
Commissioner Sarnoff I don't -- I know that -- yes. Hope that's right.
Ms. Mendez: Well, this is the land use one, so it's fine.
Commissioner Sarnoff There we go.
Chair Gort: Are you staying or --?
Commissioner Sarnoff I'm okay.
Mr. Hannon: Okay, sir.
Chair Gort: You're okay? All right.
Commissioner Sarnoff I mean, I was briefed on this before, and it -- did anybody from the
public stand up and speak?
Mr. Hannon: No, sir.
Commissioner Sarnoff. Then I'm okay.
Mr. Hannon: Moving on with the roll call for item PZ.4. Vice Chair Hardemon?
Vice Chair Hardemon: For.
Mr. Hannon: Chair Gort?
Chair Gort: Yes.
Mr. Hannon: The ordinance passes o second reading, 3-0.
Commissioner Sarnoff Portable water, yeah.
Chair Gort: Thank you.
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PZ.5 ORDINANCE Second Reading
14-01075zt
AN ORDINANCE OF THE MIAMI CITY COMMISSION AMENDING
ORDINANCE NO. 13114, THE ZONING ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF
MIAMI, BY AMENDING ARTICLE 7, SECTION 7.2, ENTITLED "PROCEDURES
AND NONCONFORMITIES," TO MODIFY PARKING REQUIREMENTS FOR
ADAPTIVE USES; CONTAINING A SEVERABILITY CLAUSE AND PROVIDING
FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
14-01075zt SR Fact Sheet.pdf
14-01075zt PZAB Reso.pdf
14-01075zt Legislation (v5).pdf
14-01075zt-Submittal-Elvis Cruz -Proposed Modified Language.pdf
14-01075zt-Bennet Pumo-Language Recommendation Letters.pdf
APPLICANT(S): Daniel J. Alfonso, City Manager, on behalf of the City of Miami
FINDING(S):
PLANNING DEPARTMENT: Recommended approval.
PLANNING, ZONING AND APPEALS BOARD: Recommended approval on
November 5, 2014, by a vote of 7-0.
PURPOSE: This will allow non -conforming buildings with less than the required
on -site parking, or no parking, to continue to exist with vested rights while
emphasizing the intent of the Miami 21 Code to promote rehabilitation,
restoration and adaptive uses on existing buildings.
Motion by Commissioner Suarez, seconded by Vice Chair Hardemon, that this matter be
DEFERRED PASSED by the following vote.
Votes: Ayes: 4 - Commissioner(s) Gort, Sarnoff, Suarez and Hardemon
Absent: 1 - Commissioner(s) Carollo
Note for the Record: Item PZ.5 was deferred to the November 19, 2015, Planning and Zoning
Commission Meeting.
Chair Gort: PZ.5.
Victoria Mendez (City Attorney): This is for cleanup.
Commissioner Sarnoff. Yeah.
Francisco Garcia (Director, Office of Planning): Thank you, sir. Item PZ.5 is before you on
second reading. This is an amendment to Miami 21, the City's Zoning Ordinance, and this
pertains particularly to provisions in Article 7, pertaining to adaptive uses. This is both a
clarification and a slight revision of the regulations that pertain to the reuse of existing
structures in the City of Miami, and I will describe briefly in summary what the proposed
changes entail. The major changes are that we are clarifying and setting forth that properties on
- - zoned T3, whether T3-R, T3-L or T3-0, as well as properties zoned T4-R are not eligible for
these parking reductions; that is the first issue. And secondly, structures that were a
single-family duplex or lodging use are also not eligible for these parking reductions. And lastly,
if the subject property is abutting a T3 transect zone, they will also not be eligible for these
parking reductions. Other than that, what adaptive use allows us to do through a waiver process
- - so this is subject to review and approval administratively -- to protect adjacent properties
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against potential adverse impacts. A property that is seeking to be reused for a different use can
apply for a reduction in parking and keep their grandfathered parking as it exists, without
adding any more to it, with a caveat that if there is any expansion to the structure, then that
expansion certainly would have to come into compliance with the present requirements. I'll be
happy to answer any questions you may have. We are, of course -- I'm sorry -- I should have
said recommending approval, as did the Planning, Zoning & Appeal Board.
Chair Gort: Okay. Is there anyone in the public would like to address this issue?
Elvis Cruz: Elvis Cruz, 631 Northeast 57th Street. Gentlemen, you've known me for many years.
I started going down to the City of Miami Planning Department in the early '80s, and I would
speak to the planners, and back then, two of their key fundamental values, as they told me, were:
Number one, every property should have all of its parking on site; and number two,
single -family -zoned land is sacred ground. Sadly, that is not always the case nowadays, but this
ordinance, with the language that I've proposed before you on those yellow sheets has the ability
to help further that protection. The language in that proposal is the same that I gave you back in
June; nothing has changed. It furthers -- it builds on the protections that the Planning
Department has proposed; however, the devil is in the details, and so the Planning Department
uses the word, "prior," prior use. I strongly urge you to consider, instead of "prior use, " the
word, "originally use." Why? Because many of those buildings were originally built as
single-family homes, and therefore, if it was built as an original single-family home, then the
protections would kick in. Secondly, at one point during this long process -- and this began back
in December of 2014 -- at one point, there was a 500-foot buffer written into the legislation.
Sadly, that buffer has been removed. I would urge you to put that 500-foot buffer back into the
legislation. So while I have written up what I believe is an excellent piece of legislation, if it's
too much for you to absorb at this sitting, please consider those two minor changes; the word,
"original" and the 500-foot buffer. Thank you.
Chair Gort: Thank you, sir. Yes, sir.
Steve Wernick: Good afternoon, Commissioners. Steve Wernick; address, 1 Southeast 3rd
Avenue. I'm here this afternoon on behalf of Prime Star, LLC (Limited Liability Company),
which is a small property owner in Wynwood, but I also work with a lot of clients that are
property owners, small business owners; they're in Little River, Little Haiti, Little Havana,
Allapattah; older neighborhoods in the City of Miami. These buildings were built without any
required parking. Before 1950, there were no off-street parking requirements for commercial
buildings, and even after 1950, a lot of smaller buildings weren't required to have parking. So
today, with the current Miami 21 Code, there are -- this is a practical situation, and a lot of this,
I would say, are in Commissioner Gort and Commissioner Hardemon's districts primarily. There
are folks sitting there, waiting. They don't know what to do, because the buildings have zero
parking spaces, which is legal, it was what was required at the time, and they're trying to bring
in a tenant, they're trying to revitalize areas that haven't seen much action. This is not about big
development. And the current language would require that they have at least one space on site
in order to take advantage or keep that historic parking requirement, so it's crucial, practically,
for folks to come in, to bring in new cafes or new businesses. This is not -- I'm not talking about
single-family neighborhoods. This is in commercial corridors; Northeast 2ndAvenue, North
Miami Avenue, other parts where people need this change to fix that glitch, because if you have
zero parking spaces, which was required at the time, you would have to tear down portions of the
building to provide all of the required parking. So I urge you to pass this on second reading.
Thank you.
Chair Gort: Thank you. Anyone else?
Bennet Pumo: Bennet Pumo, 7327 Northwest Miami Court, Miami; mostly Little River, Lemon
City area, and we've been trying to correct this Miami 21 error for a number of -- for almost a
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year now, and we're there. Everything's in the ordinance, everything's there, the rewrite's there.
One thing missing is the three words, "or existing use," because I don't -- we don't need any
ambiguous wording there to where somebody can try to work between the lines. It definitively
says "or existing use," and they can't complain about it. Thank you.
Chair Gort: Thank you, sir. Anyone else? Anyone else? Close the public hearings. Comments
from our board members? Yes, sir.
Commissioner Sarnoff Mr. Chair -- so, Mr. Garcia, this is something I think that you andI had
a pretty good colloquy last time. I'd like to have the same colloquy with you this time, if possible.
Through the Chair, is that okay?
Chair Gort: Yes, sir.
Commissioner Sarnoff So before we had -- I had talked about 500 feet away from a T3 transect
zone, and you, I thought, had agreed, or at least swayed by that at the moment, and now it's lying
through again. Can you give me your thinking as to why you do not want to protect the T3
neighborhood from -- it's called a "parking spillover"?
Mr. Garcia: Thank you, Commissioner. We feel that that protection is in this ordinance. We
make specific reference to properties that abut those T3-zoned lands, whether T3-R, T3-L, or
T3-0, and those properties which abut T3-zoned properties are not eligible for the adaptive use
reduction.
Commissioner Sarnoff What is -- so as a term of art, you use the word, "abut." What does
"abut" mean in -- the way you're explaining it?
Mr. Garcia: `Abut" means one of two things: Either there is a property line that is shared,
meaning they actually touch one another; or it happens to be immediately across the street,
across the public right-of-way from an adjacent property. Both of those conditions are
considered to be abutting conditions.
Commissioner Sarnoff So I know the one I'm thinking of obviously, is Biscayne Boulevard.
You're suggesting -- and to my surprise, on a couple of my walks, I've seen people park in
Morningside, they go to Soyka. So if they had some sort of a adaptive reuse, in accordance with
your wishes, that would not be allowed, because they would be abutting Morningside; am I
wrong on that?
Mr. Garcia: In the case of Soyka, I believe the neighborhood immediately to the west of that is
Palm Grove.
Commissioner Sarnoff Correct. But I thought -- so crossing Biscayne Boulevard, I thought you
said immediately across the street. What does "immediately across the street" mean?
Mr. Garcia: That is correct. To be honest with you, I am not certain that Soyka is the restaurant
on -- close to Biscayne Boulevard, even though possibly not technically right on Biscayne
Boulevard, may not be, for that reason, abutting the properties that are, themselves, abutting
Morningside. But what I can tell you about this condition -- I know this is your concern and
your issue -- is that all of the properties on Biscayne Boulevard, along Biscayne Boulevard, in
fact, abut a low -density residential area; and therefore, they would be precluded from having an
adaptive use reduction, pursuant to this ordinance. I'd like also, Commissioner, to beg your
indulgence in explaining one further detail. The ordinance that exists today and that we can
enforce today is more lenient or less restrictive than the one we are proposing now. This
clarification actually makes the requirements stricter, and precludes more properties as opposed
to less, from obtaining these reductions.
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Commissioner Sarnoff Right. And so I'm going to take your response to me with regard to
Soyka's to be kind of vague, because you're not a hundred percent certain that that would have
protected Morningside; though you said it wouldn't have worked as a result of it being Palm
Grove; that's what I understood you to say.
Mr. Garcia: I'm sorry, that is correct; although most of Palm Grove, I'm not a hundred percent
certain, to be honest with you, but I can research it quickly, that all of it is T3 or T4-R, but
certainly, most of it is, and I believe that the abutting condition to Soyka's is within that
protective realm.
Commissioner Sarnoff Okay. Now, I want to visit with you the word, `prior use, " as opposed
to "original use." So if I built a home 70 years ago on Biscayne Boulevard and it was a home,
and then it gets used for, let's say 40 years, as a law office; ten years as a dentist office, and now,
it wants to be a restaurant, what is the prior use?
Mr. Garcia: The prior use is the use immediately preceding the one that would benefit from the
application. I'll make that clearer, and I'll expound briefly to say that to take a legal
nonconforming set of advantages from a property would essentially constitute a taking, and
would therefore be challengeable. All we're doing in this ordinance is acknowledging whatever
the nonconforming condition is today, and allowing it to continue, if it is legally nonconforming.
To take a structure that was originally designed as a single-family residence -- worst case
scenario, I suppose -- and has since been converted to an office use, and is therefore
grandfathered as an office use, to take that grandfathering status then out and require it to
comply with Code requirements above and beyond that which they presently do is, I think, very
much subject to challenge. I don't think it could defend that.
Commissioner Sarnoff Well, and I -- so let me ask you this, because I don't want to take -- I've
done this once before; I think Commissioner Gort will remember this. I don't want to take
anybody's right that presently exists; that's not what I'm suggesting. So if I just put in there,
anybody whose -- everyone's use as of the date of this passage is grandfathered in, I wouldn't
have that issue, right?
Mr. Garcia: Can you ask that again? I apologize.
Commissioner Sarnoff Yeah.
Mr. Garcia: I want to make sure I understand this.
Commissioner Sarnoff So let me be -- let me try to be more articulate. If I were to put a
paragraph in 7.2.8 that said, `Anyone's use that was nonconforming" -- `Anyone's use, up until
the date of the Mayor signing this ordinance, shall be grandfathered, " I wouldn't have a taking
argument, correct.
Mr. Garcia: That is correct.
Commissioner Sarnoff So, all right, I can get around that, but I thought when you and I
debated, we were debating over the actual intention of what the structure was built to be, and,
you know, candidly, you and I had a great bit of debate with regard to a guy named Heinz'
property, and Arvah Janes' property. It was a great visual of what is potentially possible and
what is potentially interference, so if we go back to the original use, which is -- let's say it was
built as a single-family home -- and I'm not suggesting that -- I'm not suggesting to you that I'm
not more modern than I'm sounding, because I think adaptive reuses are cool, funky and sexy. I
just don't think a single-family neighborhood should pay the consequence of somebody
adaptively reusing a structure that was intended to be a single-family house on what I think is --
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and I don't think Miami 21 contemplates -- a very high use, traffic use, car use of people having
lunches and dinners, so a restaurant of a kind, or even a drinking establishment. And I'm still
struggling with not imposing the 500 feet, grandfathering the use that exists right now, and going
back to the original use of the structure. That's -- why should I not do that?
Mr. Garcia: As pertains to the 500 feet, the logic behind our recommendation that it be only for
abutting properties is -- and we've displayed this image before, and we have it available, should
you care to see it again -- if one were to map out that 500 foot protective buffer, vis-a-vis all the
eligible properties, you would find that a great many properties in the City would be affected by
it, would be within that buffer, and would therefore be precluded from seeking a parking
reduction. The effect that has is every one of those properties, as they seek to be reused and
bring in a new use would now have to come into compliance with the full requirement of parking
spaces mandated by Miami 21, and for many of them, especially in the less well-off areas, that
would be a significant hardship. What we would prefer to do is -- and I remind all of you that
there is a waiver of permit required. What we would prefer to do is to allow them to at least
apply. Those which are not abutting the protected areas -- the single-family residential areas
and the duplex residential areas -- to allow them to at least apply to keep the same number of
parking spaces; to be able to bring in a new use, without having to come into full compliance
with present Code, and then we can -- always taking into consideration the protection against
potential adverse impacts as part of the waiver -- we could then decide what the appropriate
measure of flexibility is, and therefore, allow many properties to be reused, and some,
unfortunately, won't, if, in fact we determine that the impact would be too great.
Commissioner Sarnoff So then you would issue a -- it's all right, Mr. Chair? So you would
issue a warrant, correct?
Mr. Garcia: This would be a waiver, sir.
Commissioner Sarnoff A waiver, and that waiver would be subject to public notice?
Mr. Garcia: Yes, absolutely --
Commissioner Sarnoff And then that waiver --
Mr. Garcia: -- and to challenge.
Commissioner Sarnoff -- and subject to challenge, but it would cost the opposer how much
money?
Mr. Garcia: The filing for an appeal if you are an abutting property owner is -- actually, there is
no fee for that; and if you are a neighborhood association, there is also no fee for an appeal. If
you --
Commissioner Sarnoff A homeowners association, there's no fee for that?
Mr. Garcia: No fee for homeowners association; no fee for abutting property owners, who
would be, one would expect, the most directly impacted parties.
Commissioner Sarnoff And to your knowledge and -- what is a City block? What's the number
of feet; an ordinary City block?
Mr. Garcia: On the long side, a standard City block might be approximately -- I'd say in the
realm of 500 feet; and on the short side, typically 200 feet; both dimensions are somewhat
malleable, of course. This is premised, just for clarity's sake and for the record, on a block that
is ten properties long by two properties deep.
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Commissioner Sarnoff I'm sorry, I didn't understand that.
Mr. Garcia: My calculation, my estimate of 500-by-200 is based on a block that is ten properties
long -by -two properties deep, which is a standard condition.
Commissioner Sarnoff Okay. Thank you, Mr. Chair.
Chair Gort: Yes. I closed the public hearings, but I'll allow you to (UNINTELLIGIBLE).
Peter Ehrlich: Could I speak quickly?
Chair Gort: Real fast.
Mr. Ehrlich: Peter Ehrlich, 720 Northeast 69th Street. I'm speaking in favor of the item
legislation. I know it is a little sensitive. To help Commissioner Sarnoff the Soyka, the Soyka
Restaurant happens to be on Northeast 4th Court, not on Biscayne Boulevard, so it's two roads
away from Morningside. It does have a little bit of buffer. It's on the west side of 4th Court. But
the subject restaurant you're referring to, yes, it is -- it definitely had some approvals that are a
little bit onerous for the neighbors of Morningside. I think the legislation is good, and maybe if
500 feet isn't a good figure to use, you could use 200 or 250. Thank you very much.
Chair Gort: Thank you. Let me tell you, I wish you would have gone with me, Francisco. For
the last two months, I been going to neighborhood organizations, and the biggest problem that
we have is parking; matter of fact, I had to sit down with the City Manager. I have one place
where we had to put all kind of restrictions, because people were walk -- parking all over the
sidewalk, all over the place, because there was no space around there. So I understand a long
time ago, you had one park -- one -- as stated before, one or two cars per household. Now,
unfortunately, you have three or four. And I have a lot of problem in waiving the parking
requirement; I really do, because I see all the problems that I have in my neighborhood. So I
would like to see the 500 feet, and the process got to be through a warrant, and it's got to be
coming to us; am I correct? That's what I would like to see; if not, I'm voting against it.
Mr. Garcia: Fair enough, sir. I would then ask the City Attorney to advise whether the change,
as proposed, is something that can be done here as part of this proceeding, and what concerns
me is the actual change in procedure from waiver to warrant, and does that require a
continuance of the item and amendment to present to the City Commission again, or could that
be done as part of a --?
Ms. Mendez: It's not significant enough to require a reset or having to go back to PZAB
(Planning, Zoning & Appeals Board). It's just an addition to the ordinance. I don't see a
problem with it.
Commissioner Sarnoff Could I make a suggestion to you, Mr. Chair? Maybe you'll share --
Chair Gort: Yes, sir.
Commissioner Sarnoff -- what I think. I would change the word `prior" to "original." I would
then put "Any use then existing at the time the Mayor signs this particular ordinance shall be
grandfathered, " and I would maintain the 500 feet, and I would -- that would be my motion, and
maybe somebody would second that.
Chair Gort: So I'll take it --
Ms. Mendez: Grandfathered as to parking? Can we grandfather it as to parking? Because
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"grandfathered," I don't want some big --
Commissioner Sarnoff Yeah, grandfathered concerning the parking. I don't want to take
somebody's existing use away from them.
Chair Gort: Right.
Commissioner Sarnoff I don't mean to sound like a non -modern City planner, but I got to tell
you, Francisco, I've watched this in my neighborhood, I've seen it with Cocowalk, I've seen it
with -- I've seen it in Elvis Cruz' neighborhood. I have no reason in the world to be helping Elvis
Cruz right now, trust me. He's a mean, vicious, villainous man, and I want the record to reflect
that, but -- and, of course, that's LOL (laughing out loud), right; lots of laughs.
Ms. Mendez: He said that with a smile; let the record reflect that.
Commissioner Sarnoff It was, it was, it was. It's going to come out so terribly negative
tomorrow when the Herald writes "Elvis" -- no, I'm kidding. So I don't do this because of Elvis,
but I -- it's something I've experienced, and I know we're going to go through a transition,
because the City is transitioning. I just feel like you're maybe three to five years early on this,
and I've seen a lot of complaints on this. And when you see people parking in places that they
have no business parking in -- I don't know -- I think that's a loss of quality of life.
Chair Gort: You're blocking my driveway. You're on my sidewalk, and you're knocking down my
fence. So I don't mind it, the use, but the waiver of parking, I think it's a problem at this time.
I've seen it in my neighborhood, and I wish you guys come with me, and I'll take you to the
meetings so you can see the response from the people. They're the one that call us all the time
with the complaints. We're the one that have to get the police to go out; then get Code
Enforcement to go out and enforce it. So --
Mr. Wernick: Mr. Chair, can I make one point that I think may be important for you all to
understand?
Chair Gort: I'll give you one minute. We closed the public hearing, and you already spoke and
Mr. Wernick: If that change --
Chair Gort: Steve, you already spoke, also.
Mr. Wernick: Okay, I'm sorry. If change gets made into this ordinance, I know for a fact there
are applications either pending or about to be submitted that are allowed under Miami 21 today
in Little River in particular that -- where you may be three, four hundred feet away from a T3,
but it's an indus -- an old industrial zone where they're trying to bring in other commercial uses,
where they would be allowed to continue to have one or two required parking spaces, and they
now, by this change, would not be able to move forward with that application. So I think if that's
the change you're going to make, I would suggest that you defer it or continue it, to understand
how many prop -- because the grandfathering language would not necessarily protect all of
those, and this would create an even more restrictive situation in areas that are really not
affecting single-family neighborhoods.
Commissioner Suarez: Mr. Chair.
Mr. Wernick: I do understand there are certain neighborhoods --
Chair Gort: Look, I don't have any problem deferring this.
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Commissioner Suarez: Mr. Chair.
Chair Gort: Let the -- let him -- the Planning Department come up and look at the different uses
in the neighborhoods, because a lot of the ordinance do not apply to all the neighborhoods.
There's some neighborhoods, like you saying, that's not residential, but the zoning is residential.
That needs to be changed. I think that happens throughout the City. I mean, I been talking to
the Planning Department, and we're working, because there's a lot of changes that need to be
done throughout the City where uses are no longer conforming with the present use and with the
Miami 21, and we need to make some changes on that.
Commissioner Suarez: Mr. Chair.
Chair Gort: Yes, sir.
Commissioner Suarez: Thank you. We have to be able to find --
Mr. Pumo: Can I get my one minute? Excuse me.
Commissioner Suarez: Thank you. We have to be able to find a way to unify both issues. I
mean, we got to be able to protect the T3, and we cannot possibly do something to negatively
impact Little River. I mean, that's an area that is about to grow, you know, by leaps and bounds,
and it's going to be another feather in our cap. We cannot do anything that's going to sabotage
that. I won't support it, okay? But we have to be able to protect the T3 neighborhoods. I mean,
that's something we talked about the other day in the Shenandoah Historic Preservation Summit.
There's got to be a way to do it, so I think deferral is probably what makes the most sense until
we get this right; but, definitely, we cannot do anything that has an unintended consequence of
damaging such a vibrant place like Little River.
Commissioner Sarnoff You know, ironically, Mr. Wernick, just so you know, I actually went to
Ironside last night. Ironside is a venue in Little River, and let me be disclosing. I was about to
park in the neighborhood, and then they had a great parking lot, and I parked in the parking lot,
but my instinct was to park in the parking -- was to park in the neighborhood, and it was the
wrong instinct, and I could be -- my wife says I could be trained, so, you know, maybe I can be
trained.
Commissioner Suarez: But that's like we fight against cut -through, and sometimes, we cut
through.
Commissioner Sarnoff Right.
Commissioner Suarez: You know what I mean? So --
Chair Gort: Do I have a motion for deferral?
Commissioner Suarez: What's that?
Chair Gort: Do I have a motion to continue?
Commissioner Sarnoff And then maybe it's as simple as just corning up --
Commissioner Suarez: Motion to defer.
Chair Gort: Motion to defer.
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Commissioner Sarnoff I think there -- I think if we -- I think he's right. I think if we sat down
and looked at the neighborhoods that we were trying to entice this use in, and looked at the
neighborhoods that we were trying to exclude this from, I think we could find some common
ground, I really do.
Commissioner Suarez: Absolutely.
Commissioner Sarnoff I think he's right.
Chair Gort: Okay.
Mr. Pumo: Real quick. Real -- I don't know. Bennet Pumo. A lot of the -- we have 123
properties that were changed to T5; 123 mom and pop shops. We swing uses all the time. They
come and go very quickly. You're stuck on uses. This is a vested right for the building, not for
the use. That's the -- that's what this Code is for. It's a vested right that goes with the building to
maintain the parking that was there when we built the building for its intended use. I have 123
mom and pops out there that are in T5 that, every time we swing that use, if we have to go to
warrant waiver, we will never get a tenant. Thank you.
Chair Gort: Thank you, sir. Let me tell you why the use is important. You have a attorney that's
using it as an office. The attorney, maybe he'll have five visitors a day or six. This fee is very
successful. But if you have a restaurant, you're going to have at least ten to 20 people coming in,
which makes a difference in the amount of cars. Thank you.
Mr. Garcia: Commissioners, I just wanted to say briefly that I've heard you loud and clear, and
I agree that this warrants then a continuance or a deferral. We're happy to come back to you for
the meeting in November and perhaps take up the issue again. We'll gladly do that.
Chair Gort: I need a second for Commissioner Suarez' motion. Second by Vice Chairman
Hardemon. All in favor --
The Commission (Collectively): Aye.
Todd B. Hannon (City Clerk): And we're moving it to which date?
Mr. Garcia: I believe the meeting in the month of November is November --
Mr. Hannon: Oh, no, November 19. Understood. Thank you.
Mr. Pumo: Okay. Thank you.
Chair Gort: What do you have next? What's next? That's it?
Mr. Garcia: I'm sorry, was there a vote?
Mr. Hannon: Good to go.
Chair Gort: Yes.
Mr. Garcia: Fair enough, fair enough. Thank you very much.
PZ.6 ORDINANCE
14-01304zt1
First Reading
AN ORDINANCE OF THE MIAMI CITY COMMISSION AMENDING
ORDINANCE NO. 13114, AS AMENDED, THE ZONING ORDINANCE OF THE
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CITY OF MIAMI, FLORIDA, BY AMENDING ARTICLE 7 "PROCEDURES AND
NONCONFORMITIES" TO CLARIFY LANGUAGE ON TIME EXTENSIONS OF
NONCONFORMING USES; CONTAINING A SEVERABILITY CLAUSE; AND
PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
14-01304zt1 SR Fact Sheet.pdf
14-01304zt1 PZAB Reso.pdf
14-01304zt1 Legislation (v2).pdf
APPLICANT(S): Daniel J. Alfonso, City Manager, on behalf of the City of Miami
FINDING(S):
PLANNING AND ZONING DEPARTMENT: Recommended approval.
PLANNING, ZONING AND APPEALS BOARD: Recommended approval on
March 24, 2015, by a vote of 8-0.
PURPOSE: This will amend Article 7, Section 7.2.6 "Nonconforming Uses" of
the Miami 21 Code to emphasize the intent of the Code by introducing language
to clarify that the time extension on nonconforming uses is measured from the
time that the Use became nonconforming.
Motion by Commissioner Sarnoff, seconded by Commissioner Suarez, that this matter be
PASSED ON FIRST READING PASSED by the following vote.
Votes: Ayes: 3 - Commissioner(s) Gort, Sarnoff and Hardemon
Absent: 2 - Commissioner(s) Carollo and Suarez
Francisco Garcia (Director, Office of Planning): PZ.6 is before you on first reading. This is an
amendment to Miami 21, the Zoning Ordinance, Article 7, Section 726, and this is simply and
straightforwardly to clarify that nonconforming uses become nonconforming the moment the
regulations change and the characteristic of the use is, itself nonconforming. This serves only to
further clarify something that is, we think, already clear in the Zoning Ordinance, which is that
the 20-year sunset period attached to nonconforming uses begins to toll at that date in which
they first become nonconforming; and just to put it on the record, also to clarify that Miami 21
and the adoption of Miami 21 did not have the effect of resetting the clock for these
nonconforming uses. That's all I wanted to say for the record. I'm happy to answer any
questions.
Commissioner Sarnoff. So move.
Commissioner Suarez: Second.
Chair Gort: Been moved and second. Any further discussion? Being none, all in favor --
Todd B. Hannon (City Clerk): Chair.
Chair Gort: Yes, sir.
Mr. Hannon: It's an ordinance.
Chair Gort: An ordinance. Go ahead.
The Ordinance was read by title into the public record by the City Attorney.
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Chair Gort: Does anyone like to address this issue?
Commissioner Suarez: That was like a 4-6-40, by the way; 40-yard dash.
Commissioner Sarnoff I think he's looking for an increase in his budget again.
Chair Gort: Yes, ma'am.
Renita Holmes: Good afternoon, Mr. Chair. Again, just for a point of clarity, in the language --
I'm reading it -- it made a statement in regards to how many years -- well, can -- does this allow
-- through the Chair, Madam Attorney, does this language say that you can tear somebody's
building down if it does not conform according to --
Victoria Mendez (City Attorney): No.
Ms. Holmes: -- the 2010 date that was said upon, is that --?
Ms. Mendez: No. It's just that they have to come to the City Commission for any continued use;
that it's just not automatic. That's just the --
Ms. Holmes: It's not automatic, but if it's nonconformance within 20 years as of 2010, it can still
cause your building to be torn down. Is this -- I mean, you're the attorney. Well, all of you are,
actually.
Mr. Garcia: I'll clam, ifI may. This pertains to uses; not to structures. So if the structure is
still sound of structure -- in other words, it's sustainable and can be occupied safely -- the
structure is in no danger of being torn down; however, a use that becomes nonconforming -- and
I will give you an example that comes to mind. Adult entertainment facilities which become
nonconforming, they have then a 20 year sunset period in which they can amortize their
investments, presumably, but after those 20 years, then they would be out of compliance, and
they would be expected to close shop.
Ms. Holmes: I'm okay with that one. Can you find another one? I mean adult use -- I'm just
kidding. I guess it's not quite -- because I see if you're adult use, we don't care too much for
adult use, although I see them --
Ms. Mendez: How about a gasoline station in a T3 area?
Ms. Holmes: (UNINTELLIGIBLE) yeah, in a T3.
Ms. Mendez: A gasoline station.
Ms. Holmes: Most -- yeah.
Ms. Mendez: That's a good example that something was reset now to T3, and all of a sudden,
there's a gasoline station in the middle, you know. They need to come back to ask for an
extension of that use, or if not, it's not allowed anymore; that idea.
Ms. Holmes: I'm just -- I'm not big on severable uses. I'm not -- rights or stuff like that, but is
this about use, or is this really about the rights, the building rights, or the owner's building
rights? This is --
Mr. Garcia: Really about uses and not about structures, which I understand to be your concern.
Ms. Holmes: Yes, yes.
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Mr. Garcia: So structures can continue to be used.
Ms. Holmes: Thank you.
Chair Gort: Thankyou. It's an ordinance.
Ms. Mendez: I read the ordinance into the record.
Mr. Hannon: Chair, would you like to close the public hearing?
Chair Gort: Yes, sir.
Mr. Hannon: Okay. We will now move on to the roll call for item PZ.6.
A roll call was taken, the result of which is stated above.
Mr. Hannon: The ordinance passes on first reading, 3-0.
PZ.7 RESOLUTION
15-00795ha
A RESOLUTION OF THE MIAMI CITY COMMISSION AFFIRMING OR
REVERSING THE MIAMI HISTORIC AND ENVIRONMENTAL PRESERVATION
BOARD'S DENIAL OF AN APPEAL, BY LORETO DOUCET, OF TREE
REMOVAL PERMIT APPLICATION BD15-006663-001 AT 3985 LOQUAT
AVENUE, MIAMI, FLORIDA.
15-00795ha Fact Sheet.pdf
15-00795ha Appeal to City Commission.pdf
15-00795ha Analysis and HEPB Resolution.pdf
15-00795ha Appeal to HEPB.pdf
15-00795ha Application.pdf
15-00795ha Legislation (v2).pdf
15-00795ha Legislation (v3).pdf
LOCATION: Approximately 3985 LoquatAvenue [Commissioner Marc David
Sarnoff - District 2]
APPLICANT(S): Loreto Doucet
APPELLANT(S) TO HEPB: Loreto Doucet
APPELLANT(S) TO CITY COMMISSION: Santiago D. Echemendia, on behalf
of Habitus, LLC.
FINDING(S):
ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCES OFFICE: Recommended denial of appeal.
HISTORIC AND ENVIRONMENTAL PRESERVATION BOARD: Denied the
appeal on July 7, 2015, by a vote of 6-0.
PURPOSE: The appeal seeks to reverse the decision of the Historic and
Environmental Preservation Board's decision.
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PZ.8
15-0021 8ha
Motion by Commissioner Suarez, seconded by Vice Chair Hardemon, that this matter be
DEFERRED PASSED by the following vote.
Votes: Ayes: 3 - Commissioner(s) Gort, Suarez and Hardemon
Absent: 2 - Commissioner(s) Sarnoff and Carollo
Note for the Record: Item PZ.7 was deferred to the October 22, 2015, Planning and Zoning
Commission Meeting.
RESOLUTION
A RESOLUTION OF THE MIAMI CITY COMMISSION AFFIRMING OR
REVERSING THE MIAMI HISTORIC AND ENVIRONMENTAL PRESERVATION
BOARD'S DENIAL OF AN APPLICATION FOR A SPECIAL CERTIFICATE OF
APPROPRIATENESS FOR DEMOLITION OF A CONTRIBUTING RESOURCE
AND NEW CONSTRUCTION OF A SI NGLE-FAMILY HOME AT 713
NORTHWEST7TH STREET ROAD, MIAMI, FLORIDA, WITHIN THE SPRING
GARDEN HISTORIC DISTRICT.
15-00218ha Fact Sheet.pdf
15-00218ha Appeal to City Commission.pdf
15-00218ha Analysis and HEPB Reso.pdf
15-00218ha Application & Supporting Documentation.pdf
15-00218ha Legislation (v2).pdf
15-00218ha Legislation (v3).pdf
LOCATION: Approximately 713 NW 7th Street Road [Commissioner Keon
Hardemon - District 5]
APPLICANT(S): Erika Franco, property owner
APPELLANT(S): Erika Franco, property owner
FINDING(S):
DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING AND ZONING: Recommended denial.
HISTORIC AND ENVIRONMENTAL PRESERVATION BOARD: Motion to
approve failed; thus, constituting a denial on July 7, 2015, by a 3-3 vote.
PURPOSE: The appeal seeks to reverse the decision of the Historic and
Environmental Preservation Board's decision.
Motion by Vice Chair Hardemon, seconded by Commissioner Sarnoff, that this matter be
DEFERRED PASSED by the following vote.
Votes: Ayes: 4 - Commissioner(s) Gort, Sarnoff, Suarez and Hardemon
Absent: 1 - Commissioner(s) Carollo
Note for the Record: Item PZ.8 was deferred to the October 22, 2015, Planning and Zoning
Commission Meeting.
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Francisco Garcia (Director, Office of Planning): There is one more item before the time certain
items, and that would be PZ.8, item PZ.8. This is an appeal of a HEP Board -- that's the Historic
& Environmental Preservation Board -- decision to deny of a -- to deny a certificate of
appropriateness for the demolition of a structure in the Spring Garden Historic District. The
motion of the Historic & Environmental Preservation Board, just to clar the record, was to
approve the certificate of appropriateness; however, the vote was 3 to 3, a tie vote, which
constitutes a denial. As a result, the application from the applicant to demolish this structure
was denied, and it is before you today on appeal. Our recommendation, of course, is to uphold
the Historic & Environmental Preservation Board's decision, and we're happy to answer any
questions you may have.
Chair Gort: Okay. Do we have a --?
Todd B. Hannon (City Clerk): Chair, I do have a couple people signed up for this item.
Chair Gort: Okay.
Unidentified Speaker: (UNINTELLIGIBLE).
Chair Gort: Whichever is fine.
Erika Franco: I have packets. Can I hand them out?
Chair Gort: I beg your pardon?
Ms. Franco: Packets that I would like --
Chair Gort: Give it to the Clerk.
Mr. Garcia: Again, just for clarity's sake -- and I'm sorry, I think I neglected to read into the
record the actual address of the property. It happens to be located at 713 Northwest 7th Street
Road; once again, in the Spring Garden Historic District.
Ms. Franco: Erica Franco; address is 1025 Northwest 11 th Avenue, Miami, Florida, 33136. Is
that it, three? On July 7, 2015, I, Erica Franco, went in front of the HEP Board meeting -- HEP
Board, requesting demolition of my property at 713 Northwest 7th Street Road, Miami, Florida,
33136. A tie vote of 3 to 3 resulted in a denial of my request. The denial was disheartening, to
say the least. The intent of the purchase of this property was to reinvest back into the community
and make it my home. I have lived in South Florida area for 16 years. I have seen this area and
community transform as time grew, but seen the same community maintains its original historic
value and natural intent. This is one of the founding reasons that supported my interest in the
purchase of this property, and willingness to reinvest back into the community, personally and
financially. I have been currently employed by the City of Miami Fire Department for over ten
years, and I'm well equipped with public service experience and understanding of the needs of
the community. That experience and understanding reflects the need of public service men and
women to also live and invest back into the same community they provide public service to.
Approximately a year ago, as my father visited me from Maryland, we passed this home as we
walked my three dogs. I -- it gave us vivid memories of vintage homes that made up Northern
Maryland, where I was raised up with family, friends, and loved ones. It was an exciting
discussion and brought back so many heartful [sic] memories. After his visit, I actively looked
into the purchasing of this property to further saturate myself in this community and living closer
to the river. During the purchase of the property, the process required a title search, whereby it
was documented as an unsafe structure by the City of Miami inspectors due to the electrical
inefficiencies, as shown in tab 2 and tab 12. Being a South Floridian and understanding the
proneness to hurricane activities to the area prompted me to proactively engage a licensed
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structural engineer that provided a field assessment of existing structure, as shown in tab 1. This
assessment was qualified by a signed and sealed report, suggesting the majority to all inspection
activity was recommended to demolish, as the structure is unsafe and clearly inhabitable [sic].
Both licensed professional and qualified inspectors of the City of Miami assessment led me to
believe that the structure is inhabitable [sicJ, and would require demolition and new
construction. This structure is a two-story wood framed house that was built nearly a hundred
years ago. Copious amounts of repairs and replacements needs to be done in order to make this
house safe and bring up to current Code. Assessment shows severe insect and water damage.
The cost to repair and replace the damages that was caused by normal deterioration and extreme
weather conditions of nearly a hundred years has made this renovation cost prohibitive to a
working-class citizen looking to invest into a place they want to call their home. Further
additive to the renovation costs are due to the previous owner's reckless actions and neglect to
get the proper permits and comply with codes, making it impossible to save this structure. There
is evident signs and samples of mold in the structure, which support the unsafe structure
recommendation, but also suggest the property atmosphere is environmentally unfriendly for any
property owner or family to reside. The house has been stripped almost completely. There is no
kitchen, no sinks, no light fixtures, no air conditioning. All of the plumbing, electrical,
mechanical, windows, doors, roof and metal (UNINTELLIGIBLE) need to be replaced, as per
field assessment. The foundation, wood joints, wood members, need replacement and/or repair,
as they were found to be inadequate. The house will have to be elevated approximately two feet
in order to comply with the FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) Code, as shown in
tab 3. It falls under the substantial improvement, 50 percent rule. With all the Code compliance
issues and field assessment reports, it seems to get this house up to current Code and consistent
with all residential life safety codes, I have to demolish and build a new residence. This properly
is not individually designated historic, but it does contribute to the character of the
neighborhood, as stated by staff in tab 10. As part of the demolition and rebuilding on the
property, I proactively created design renderings of my proposed residential idea to create design
features to maintain the historical look and character of the original community, as shown in tab
9. It will look very similar to the existing two-story framed vernacular house, consisting of the
single hung windows, asphalt shingle roof but it will be constructed of concrete masonry,
covered by painted stucco, to stimulate -- to simulate the horizontal wooden cladding. Building
codes and regulations are established within the City of Miami for the protection of residents and
property. So much has changed with the building codes of a hundred years ago that I believe it
is unreasonable to be forced to save a property that has no historical significance, other than it
being more than 50 years old at the time Spring Gardens was declared historic. At the HEP
Board meeting, three out of six members agreed that there was no saving this property. Mr.
Friedman went on record to say, and I quote, `I actually happened to see this property and am
naturally skeptical of anyone who wants to knock down a historic resource, but this is a
disaster." He continued to say, and again, quote, "In theory, let's fix it up, and it ain't" -- "but
it ain't gonna happen. Being realistic, there's no way to repair. The house is a total loss, and the
cost to repair is double the building value." One of the Dade County appraisals, which, if you
look in tab 4, one of the Dade County appraisals [sic] earlier this year came to the property,
took pictures, and from 2014 that I argued that there was no way for me to fix this under the
$40, 000, because, at the time, the house was eight -- worth $80, 000. It is now worth $838.
They, as well, came to the home and said that this house is garbage, it's not worth anything.
Prior to the hearing, I met with the members of the Spring Gardens Civic Association, and they
agreed, if I could meet the burden and showed that it's been demolished by neglect that they
would not fight me on the demolition, just as long as I stuck to the plans I presented that were
consistent with the look of the original house.
Vice Chair Hardemon: May I interrupt for a moment? A lot --
Ms. Franco: May -- oh.
Vice Chair Hardemon: I have a question for you, because -- maybe it's for Madam City
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Attorney. I mean, a lot of the things that you're saying, they are, for lack of better terms, it's
hearsay for me. I mean, these are third -party statements that are being made, and I'm assuming
that you're trying to prove those statements to be true, because we're on appeal from that
decision, so we can take in new evidence that's presented before us, so --
Victoria Mendez (City Attorney): It's a novo [sic].
Vice Chair Hardemon: -- right. So part of my --
Victoria Mendez (City Attorney): Hearsay is admissible, but it can't be the only basis for your
decision.
Vice Chair Hardemon: And so my question to you is, do you have anyone here with you that will
test to the facts that you're presenting? Because -- and the reason I'm asking you that, because
if not -- and I ask this of my City Attorney -- do we think that it is more appropriate that she --
that this type of item be deferred until she has someone that can test to those facts? Because
other than that, I mean, the information that I'm seeing in this packet, I'm seeing emails back and
forth; I'm seeing -- I'm hearing the testify that she's providing to me, which, ifI take all those
things to be true, it's find, but I'm sure we're going to get a different opinion from Administration.
So I want to make sure that the facts are presented in a way that we can actually test those facts
and ask questions about this, because the fact that it is a contributing structure -- I'm no
preservationist, myself but the fact that it is a contributing structure does cause some concern; it
just raises my eyebrows. And so if it raises my eyebrows, I want to make sure that we're making
the right decision, one way or the other. And so, when I look at a decision that comes out 3-2,
and the Administration is against it, I look at those things, and I say to myself, "Okay, I need to
pay more attention to what's going on here, and to know what's going on here -- for instance, the
pictures -- I might -- I can show you pictures of my grandmother's house, and I can say this
might be in better shape than hers, you know, and so does that mean that it needs to be torn
down, or repaired? And that, I don't know, and so that is a layman's perspective on it, but not
someone who is an expert on what needs to be redeveloped, what could be redeveloped, what
needs to be torn down, what needs to be preserved, and so I don't want to cheat you out of an
opportunity to present facts in a way that will give you an opportunity to do what it is that you
want to do, or give other parties an opportunity to uphold the ruling that was made at a lower
hearing. What do you think?
Ms. Mendez: That is a valid point, because right now she's not presenting any evidence that
shows that what the board did was improper or -- so she might want --
Vice Chair Hardemon: So, I really want -- I want to help you, because what I'm saying to you is
that what you're saying right now isn't evidence to be considered, and so I want you to be able to
present evidence to be considered so that I can look at this and say, you know, this decision that
was made before was not the right decision or it was the right decision. And, quickly, you may
be able to -- you may find yourself in a position where those who oppose you may present
evidence and you won't have the ability to combat that evidence, because you haven't presented
it in a way that it needs to be presented. Many times, you have to understand that when it's an
appeal, it is a real proceeding, and so there are things that we need to consider in that
proceeding. So it may be best to take a little bit of time just to ensure that you know exactly what
it is that you're supposed to be presenting to us to make sure that the decision that you want
comes out the way -- so I want you to have your best shot at doing it, because once we make this
decision, it is that decision. I don't want you to believe that we just make decisions one way or
the other. You know, we really do test the evidence. And when you're sitting here with -- it's
three of us here, and you have two lawyers, and all it takes is one of us not to agree on how the
evidence was presented, and you find yourself in a position where you have my good friend,
Chairman Gort, and Chairman Gort says, Well, I don't know where to go, because the two
lawyers disagree on this legal matter," because he usually pays us a little bit of deference to
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Meeting Minutes September 10, 2015
that. So I just really want you to have a real opportunity, because I think this is important. This
is going to mean a lot, not only to your home, but to the Spring Garden community. I live right
near it. So I think it's important that we take our time to get this right. You're recognized.
Mr. Garcia: Sir, perhaps to assist as well, and I think that is sound advice. I would like to share
with the Commission and with the appellant that we, the City, do have competent and substantial
evidence to support our position, which we are ready to present. And although, certainly our
standard is clear that we are here to support the HEP Board's decision, we are also certainly
happy to meet with the appellant and share with her our competent and substantial evidence so
that she knows what the standards that she has to prepare against are in full disclosure and full
candor. So, perhaps, a continuance is worth considering at this point in time.
Ms. Franco: Right.
Commissioner Sarnoff I think --
Chair Gort: Commissioner.
Commissioner Sarnoff Can I give you my interpretation?
Ms. Franco: Yes.
Commissioner Sarnoff Come back with an engineer; let him test fy in front of us so that we have
competent and substantial evidence, and we'll do this all over again.
Ms. Franco: Okay.
Commissioner Sarnoff And then just make sure your pictures fairly and accurately depict the
condition of the premises on the date and time that you say it happened.
Vice Chair Hardemon: That's a huge statement he just made. That is a huge statement.
Chair Gort: Question.
Ms. Franco: No.
Chair Gort: Is this part of the unsafe structure that need to -- it was for -- to being knocked
down -- to demolish?
Mr. Garcia: She correctly points out that at various periods in time, some aspects of the building
have been deemed to be unsafe, and I think she pointed out specifically that there were some
defects with the electrical layout of the building. However, the structure itself is sound, has been
found to be sound by our experts, our engineers, and therefore, we are taking the position
demonstratively that it is a sound structure and can be refurbished.
Chair Gort: Okay.
Ms. Franco: Can I say one last thing on that comment?
Chair Gort: I beg your pardon?
Ms. Franco: Can I say one last thing on that comment?
Chair Gort: Go ahead, say more or less.
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Meeting Minutes September 10, 2015
Ms. Franco: This is a posted note of demolition by the City of Miami, and on the bottom, it
states, if either a demolition or building permit is not obtained or we do not hear from you by
June 9, 2014, it will be necessary to move toward demolition of your building in accordance with
a detailed procedure on the Code Miami -Dade Coun" -- "in the Code, Miami -Dade County."
How is it possible that it's okay for them to demolish, but then I purchased it, and now they're
telling me that I can't? This is very unfair.
Vice Chair Hardemon: And you do know that many times with demolishing, the City can take the
position on whether or not they -- as I understand -- repair or demolish. So just because you get
a notice to demolish doesn't mean it's going to necessarily be demolished
Chair Gort: When you read it, it says "demolish" or "pull a building permit," which means you
not want going to demolished; you're going to pull a building permit to maintain it.
Vice Chair Hardemon: To repair.
Chair Gort: If you read it correct, and I'm not a lawyer. I'll let the attorneys address that part.
Vice Chair Hardemon: I'm not -- but I'm not going to -- well, I don't want to get into that part of
it, because I haven't seen that. I'm not looking at that right now, but I strongly advise you to take
our advice and try to have someone help you present some evidence that we can actually use to
make our decision. I want to make sure that you have a fair chance at this, okay? It's all about
fairness.
Commissioner Sarnoff You saw your Duques [sic] and Associates?
Ms. Franco: Yes.
Commissioner Sarnoff Bring a representative from there.
Ms. Franco: Okay.
Commissioner Sarnoff And --
Jean Theede: I would like to speak, please.
Chair Gort: Yes, ma'am, you will, as soon as they give you a chance.
Ms. Theede: I have a question.
Chair Gort: Ma'am, excuse me. We'll give you a chance in a minute. Let us finish. We'll give
you a chance.
Ms. Theede: Okay.
Chair Gort: This is a public hearing; everybody gets to speak.
Ms. Theede: No. I've got a very important question to ask her that's pertinent to what's going
on.
Chair Gort: But I think the Commissioner is speaking at this time. The Commissioner is
speaking at this time. As soon as he's finish, I'll recognize you.
Ms. Theede: I apologize.
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Meeting Minutes September 10, 2015
Chair Gort: Thank you. No, ma'am; no need.
Commissioner Sarnoff All I'm suggesting is bring a representative from Duques [sic], and then
you'll be good to go.
Vice Chair Hardemon: You just want someone to be able to -- if there's an opinion that you've
relied on, you want that person here to tell us, one, the opinion that they made, and two, how
they came to that opinion. It gives us an opportunity to ask them questions. And then we have a
different opinion from City, we can ask the City the same question: "What opinion did you come
with?" And -- "come to, and how did you reach that opinion?" And then we're able to choose
between which parties we believe has the best expert, if you will.
Commissioner Sarnoff Take these back with you so you save your money for photocopying.
Ms. Franco: Thank you.
Vice Chair Hardemon: You're welcome. So I would move to -- would it be to defer, Mr. Clerk?
Chair Gort: Let's -- we haven't finished with the public hearing.
Vice Chair Hardemon: Oh, I'm sorry.
Chair Gort: Yes, ma'am, you're recognized.
Ms. Theede: Dr. Jean Theede, 150 Southwest 7th Street; been there since 1971. I have some --
important question to ask her before I open my mouth and put my foot in it. Did you -- do you
have a mortgage on your property?
Ms. Franco: I do not.
Ms. Theede: You do not have a mortgage? You paid cash. Did you have somebody come in and
inspect this house for its worthiness?
Ms. Franco: The original intent when I purchased this house, being from Maryland, was that I
loved it, and I wanted to stay in it, and I wanted to fix it, and that's what my intent was. So it --
no -- when you pay something cash, you don't have to get it inspected.
Ms. Theede: That's true.
Ms. Franco: But then, after the fact, and they tell me that I need to do all of this work, that's
when it started to become that I need to make a decision. Do I try to save this property and try to
fix it up or with -- I don't know how much more or less it would cost, but it kind of seems that
everyone just seems to say it's not worth trying to fix that property. By the time you do all of the
stuff to it, it's like you're building a new home, just keeping a wood frame struc -- a wood frame.
Ms. Theede: Okay, I understand. I grew up in a wooden house. Wasn't till, I came to Miami
that I found out about concrete. But I see some things that are questionable. You're wanting to
replace it with concrete block rather than with the -- with wood, which is existing in the
neighborhood, and that's not going to match the neighborhood, and I've been told that that
whole area is historical preservation. In 1925, this City was demolished. There was nothing left.
There were ships on Flagler Street and Miami Avenue. So that house under -- withstood a
horrific hurricane. Now --
Ms. Mendez: Chairman --
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Ms. Theede: -- since the neighbor --
Ms. Mendez: -- ifI may?
Chair Gort: Excuse me, excuse me. If the motion is --
Ms. Mendez: (UNINTELLIGIBLE).
Chair Gort: The motion is to continue it?
Vice Chair Hardemon: Whatever the proper term is. I'm not sure if we're continuing or
deferring this.
Ms. Theede: I can't hear you.
Vice Chair Hardemon: Continue.
Chair Gort: We have a motion to continue. We're not going to make any decision today.
Ms. Theede: Okay.
Ms. Mendez: We don't --
Ms. Theede: Okay.
Chair Gort: Okay? So you get another opportunity.
Ms. Theede: Thank you.
Todd B. Hannon (City Clerk): And, Chair, what date would you like to move it to? Are we
talking the next meeting, September 24, or are we looking at October --?
Chair Gort: (UNINTELLIGIBLE).
Vice Chair Hardemon: I would suggest to give her a little bit more time, so let's say October.
Mr. Hannon: October 8.
Chair Gort: No, the Planning & Zoning.
Mr. Hannon: Okay, October 22. We'll be deferring the item to October 22.
Chair Gort: Okay.
Ms. Mendez: And I just wanted to say for the record that the board is able to take any public
hearings at that time and we're in -- so anyone that wasn't able to speak today can speak on that
date, and we're in compliance with --
Chair Gort: All right. Thank you.
Ms. Mendez: -- Florida Statutes. Thank you.
Chair Gort: Okay. Any further discussion? Being none, all in --
Mr. Hannon: Is there a second? My --
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Meeting Minutes September 10, 2015
D3.1
14-01093
D3.2
15-00912
Commissioner Sarnoff. Second
Commissioner Carollo: Second.
Chair Gort: Second, second, okay. Any fzzrther discussion? Being none, all in favor, state it by
saying aye."
The Commission (Collectively): Aye.
Chair Gort: Thank you.
Ms. Franco: Thank you.
END OF PLANNING AND ZONING ITEMS
MAYOR AND COMMISSIONERS' ITEMS
CITYWIDE
HONORABLE MAYOR TOMAS REGALADO
END OF CITYWIDE ITEMS
DISTRICT 1
CHAIR WIFREDO (WILLY) GORT
END OF DISTRICT 1
DISTRICT 2
COMMISSIONER MARC DAVID SARNOFF
END OF DISTRICT 2
DISTRICT 3
COMMISSIONER FRANK CAROLLO
DISCUSSION ITEM
UPDATE REGARDING DISCUSSION ON IMPROVING THE CAPITAL
IMPROVEMENT PROJECT (C.I.P) PROCESS.
14-01093 CITP Baseline Proj. Schedules.pdf
CONTINUED
Note for the Record: Item D3.1 was continued to the October 8, 2015, Regular Commission
Meeting.
DISCUSSION ITEM
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City Commission
Meeting Minutes September 10, 2015
D3.3
15-00913
D4.1
14-01024
D4.2
14-01117
D4.3
15-00441
CITY BEAUTIFICATION.
15-00912 E-Mail - Discussion Item.pdf
DEFERRED
Note for the Record: Item D3.2 was deferred to the September 24, 2015, Planning and Zoning
Commission Meeting.
DISCUSSION ITEM
ALLOWING RESIDENTS TO PAY THE CITY WITH CREDIT CARDS.
15-00913 E-Mail - Discussion Item.pdf
DEFERRED
Note for the Record: Item D3.3 was deferred to the September 24, 2015, Planning and Zoning
Commission Meeting.
END OF DISTRICT 3
DISTRICT 4
COMMISSIONER FRANCIS SUAREZ
DISCUSSION ITEM
DISCUSSION REGARDING CONDITION OF FLAGLER AND EIGHT STREET
BUSINESS CORRIDOR.
14-01024 E-Mail - Discussion Item.pdf
NO ACTION TAKEN
DISCUSSION ITEM
DISCUSSION REGARDING THE FLORIDA FOURTH DISTRICT COURT OF
APPEAL'S OCTOBER 15TH DECISION IN THE MATTER OF CITY OF
HOLLYWOOD V. AREM RE: REDLIGHT CAMERAS.
14-01117 E-Mail - Discussion Item.pdf
14-01117 Back -Up Documents.pdf
NO ACTION TAKEN
DISCUSSION ITEM
DISCUSSION REGARDING ACQUIRING PORTION OF LUDLAM TRAIL
WITHIN CITY OF MIAMI BOUNDARIES.
NO ACTION TAKEN
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Meeting Minutes September 10, 2015
NA.1
15-01211
ADJOURNMENT
END OF DISTRICT 4
DISTRICT 5
VICE CHAIR KEON HARDEMON
END OF DISTRICT 5
NON AGENDA ITEM(S)
PRESENTATION
A PERSONAL APPEARANCE BY MR. FULGENCIO CASTRO
PRESENTING THE MAYOR AND COMMISSIONERS WITH A PLAQUE IN
RECOGNITION OF THEIR SUPPORT FOR THE CUBAN EXILE
COMMUNITY.
PRESENTED
Chair Gort: At this time, I'd like to recognize Fulgencio Castro, who wanted to address the City
Commission. Fulgencio.
Fulgencio Castro: (Comments in Spanish.) On behalf of Comunidad Cubana, I'm making this
presentation to you, and we never forget your help in all the march and everything relate with
Cuban exile community. Thankyou, sir.
Chair Gort: Thankyou.
Mr. Castro: (Comments in Spanish.) In behalf of Comunidad Cubana, we never forget your
effort with the Cuban community. Comunidad Cubana is one of the federation of the different
associations of exiles, and we recognize you this morning. Thank you.
Chair Gort: I apologize. We're going to take about a five minutes break. I hope the rest of the
Commissioners get here. We cannot conduct any business unless we have three for a quorum.
The meeting adjourned at 9: 23 p.m.
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