Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAboutSubmittal-District 2-Email Responses to ConstituentsSubmitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk Email responses to constituents I S-(1(10 i '10- JUbl i 2- mil i21.500110 tb cmt i r'n Melendez, Eleazar From: Melendez, Eleazar Sent: Thursday, January 28, 2016 7:40 PM To: 'Rodolfo Betancourt' Subject: RE: NO Historical Designation for St Jude's Church Mr. Betancourt: Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk Thank you for taking the time and energy to write us. We hear you loud and clear. Please know that aside from this email, Commissioner Russell has seen the hundreds of signatures on various'petitions for this issue, read through dozens of emails and letters ouroffice has received, and handled several calls calling for designation. We understand that preserving the historic character of neighborhood landmarks is important in 21st-century cities. Additionally, as you might know, Commissioner Russell is dedicated to responsible development throughout Miami that takes into account input from neighbors. At the same time, and as you certainly know, there are two sides to every issue. This one is no exception, and Commissioner Russell has read through dozens of emails and letters, as well as many calls to our office, opposing a historic designation. The main argument in opposition, that imposing certain conditions on the existing structure could impede the free practice of religion, is not something we are going to ignore or discard lightly. It's been the impression from Commissioner Russell, talking to folks on both sides of this dispute, that the debate so far has been unusually and unnecessarily harsh. Perhaps we are wrong, but given the Commissioner is coming in fresh to his position and to this policy matter, we see significant space for finding a meeting of the minds. We don't believe opposing sides should be entrenched on this one as either "pro -designation" or "anti -designation", but think we can all come together on an agreement: one that absolutely protects the historic landmark while also respecting the religious rights of the diocese that occupies the building. Today, the commissioner has requested the historic designation be deferred for a month. Commissioner Russell will then work with the Melkite diocese and various preservationists to find that path moving forward that can satisfy all sides. Stay tuned. Thanks again for reaching out, Eleazar David Melendez Director of Strategy and Communications Office of Commissioner Ken Russell Miami City Hall 3500 Pan American Drive Miami, Florida 33133 Office: 305-250-5335 Mobile: 212-729-6672 From: Rodolfo Betancourt [mailto:rudecourt@gmail.com] Sent: Thursday, January 21, 2016 7:48 AM 1 To: Russell, Ken (Commissioner) <krussell@miamigov.com>; Regalado, Tomas (Mayor) <TRegalado@miamigov.com>; Gort, Wifredo (Commissioner) <wgort@miamigov.com>; Suarez, Francis (Commissioner) <fsuarez@miamigov.com>; Hardemon, Keon (Commissioner) <khardemon@miamigov.com>; Carollo, Frank (Commissioner -Office) <FCarolloOffice@miamigov.com> Subject: NO Historical Designation for St Jude's Church 2016 Dear Commissioners and Mayor Regalado, I worship at St Jude Melkite Church. St Jude"s primary significance is religious, respectfully we ask the Commission to respect the Separation of Church and State as our US Constitution guarantees. The Decisions of both The 11th Circuit Court and The Third District Court affirmed our Primary Significance as Religious. National and Local ordinances exempt Churches. I am opposed to Historical designation of St Jude Melkite Church as it would increase operating costs threatening the very existence of St Jude Melkite Shrine Church; interfering with the practice of religion and the constitutional separation of Church and State. I appreciate any support you can provide in this matter, as the continual legal fees and disturbances have been going on for years disturbing the peace of the Parish. Again, I visit St Jude's for religious worship and respectfully ask The City of Miami to respect the sanctity of my religious practice. Thank you for considering my request and for your public service. Respectfully, Rudy Betancourt 786-281-5651 rudecourt@gmail.com 2 Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk Melendez, Eleazar From: Melendez, Eleazar Sent: Thursday, January 28, 2016 7:39 PM To: 'Mike' Subject: RE: St Jude Mekite Catholic Church Mr. and Mrs. Lutfey: Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 .on.02/25/2016, City Clerk Thank you for taking the time and energy to write us. We hear you loud and clear. Please know that aside from this email, Commissioner Russell has seen the hundreds of signatures on various petitions for this issue, read through dozens of emails and letters our office has received and handled several calls calling for designation. We understand that preserving the historic character of neighborhood landmarks is important in 21st-century cities. Additionally, as you might know, Commissioner Russell is dedicated to responsible development throughout Miami that takes into account input from neighbors. At the same time, and as you certainly know, there are two sides to every issue. This one is no exception, and Commissioner Russell has read through dozens of emails and letters, as well as many calls to our office, opposing a historic designation. The main argument in opposition, that imposing certain conditions on the existing structure could impede the free practice of religion, is not something we are going to ignore or discard lightly. It's been the impression from Commissioner Russell, talking to folks on both sides of this dispute, that the debate so far has been unusually and unnecessarily harsh. Perhaps we are wrong, but given the Commissioner is coming in fresh to his position and to this policy matter, we see significant space for finding a meeting of the minds. We don't believe opposing sides should be entrenched on this one as either "pro -designation" or "anti -designation", but think we can all come together on an agreement: one that absolutely protects the historic landmark while also respecting the religious rights of the diocese that occupies the building. Today, the commissioner has requested the historic designation be deferred for a month. Commissioner Russell will then work with the Melkite diocese and various preservationists to find that path moving forward that can satisfy all sides. Stay tuned. Thanks again for reaching out, Eleazar David Melendez Director of Strategy and Communications Office of Commissioner Ken Russell Miami City Hall 3500 Pan American Drive Miami, Florida 33133 Office: 305-250-5335 Mobile: 212-729-6672 From: Mike [mailto:Iutfymike@yahoo.com] Sent: Saturday, January 23, 2016 10:47 PM 3 To: Russell, Ken (Commissioner) <krussell@miamigov.com> Cc: office@stjudemiami.org Subject: St Jude Mekite Catholic Church January 23, 2016 Dear Commissioner Russell: Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk We worship at St Jude Melkite Catholic Church and are members of the Parish Pastoral Advisory Council. Since St Jude's primary significance is religious, respectfully we ask the Commission to respect the Separation of Church and State as our US Constitution guarantees. The Decisions of both The 11th Circuit Court and The Third District Court affirmed our Primary Significance as Religious. National and Local ordinances exempt Churches. We are opposed to Historical designation of St Jude Melkite Church as it would increase operating costs threatening the very existence of St Jude Melkite Shrine Church; interfering with the practice of religion and the constitutional separation of Church and State. We appreciate any support you can provide in this matter, as the continual legal fees and disturbances have been going on for years disturbing the peace of the Parish. Again, we visit St Jude's for religious worship and respectfully ask The City of Miami to respect the sanctity of our religious practice. Please vote against Historic Designation for our parish. Thank you for considering our request and for your public service Respectfully, Michael and Yolanda Lutfey 14949 SW 15th street Pembroke Pines, 33027 954.665.8542 Sent from my Sprint Samsung Galaxy S® 6 edge. 4 Melendez, Eleazar Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 - on 02/25/2016--City Clerk From: Melendez, Eleazar Sent: Thursday, January 28, 2016 7:37 PM To: 'Natalia Liviero' Subject: RE: NO Historical Designation for St Jude's Church Ms. Liviero: Thank you for taking the time and energy to write us. We hear you loud and clear. Please know that aside from this email, Commissioner Russell has seen the hundreds of signatures on various petitions for this issue, read through dozens of emails and letters our office has received and handled several calls calling for designation. We understand that preserving the historic character of neighborhood landmarks is important in 21st-century cities. Additionally, as you might know; Commissioner Russell is dedicated to responsible development throughout Miami that takes into account input from neighbors. At the same time, and as you certainly know, there are two sides to every issue. This one is no exception, and Commissioner Russell has read through dozens of emails and letters, as well as many calls to our office, opposing a historic designation. The main argument in opposition, that imposing certain conditions on the existing structure could impede the free practice of religion, is not something we are going to ignore or discard lightly. It's been the impression from Commissioner Russell, talking to folks on both sides of this dispute, that the debate so far has beenmnusually and unnecessarily harsh. Perhaps we are wrong, but given the Commissioner is coming in fresh to his position and to this policy matter, we see significant space for finding a meeting of the minds. We don't believe opposing sides should be entrenched on this one as either "pro -designation" or "anti -designation", but think we can allcome together on an agreement: one that absolutely protects the historic landmark while also respecting the religious rights of the diocese that occupies the building. Today, the commissioner has requested the historic designation be deferred for a month. Commissioner Russell will then work with the Melkite diocese and various, preservationists to find that path moving forward that can satisfy all sides. Stay tuned. Thanks again for reaching out, Eleazar David Melendez Director of Strategy and Communications Office of Commissioner Ken Russell Miami City Hall 3500 Pan American Drive Miami, Florida 33133 Office: 305-250-5335 Mobile: 212-729-6672 From: Natalia Liviero [mailto:natalialiviero@hotmail.com] Sent: Saturday, January 23, 2016 11:53 PM 5 To: Russell, Ken (Commissioner) <krussell@miamigov.com>; Regalado, Tomas (Mayor) <TRegalado@miamigov.com>; Gort, Wifredo (Commissioner) <wgort@miamigov.com>; Suarez, Francis (Commissioner) <fsuarez@miamigov.com>; Hardemon, Keon (Commissioner) <khardemon@miamigov.com>; Carollo, Frank (Commissioner -Office) <FCarolloOffice@miamigov.com> Subject: NO Historical Designation for St Jude's Church January 23, 2016 Dear Commissioners and Mayor Regalado, I worship at St Jude Melkite Church. St Jude"s primary significance is religious, respectfully we ask the Commission to respect the Separation of Church and State as our US Constitution guarantees. The Decisions of both The 11th Circuit Court and The Third District Court affirmed our Primary Significance as Religious. National and Local ordinances exempt Churches. I am opposed to F-listorical designation of St Jude_Ntelkite Church as it would increase operating costs threatening the very existence of St Jude Melkite Shrine Church; interfering with the practice of religion and the constitutional separation of Church and State. I appreciate any support you can provide in this matter, as the continual legal fees and disturbances have been going on for years disturbing the peace of the Parish. Again, I visit St Jude's for religious worship and respectfully ask The City of Miami to respect the sanctity of my religious practice. Thank you for considering my request and for your public service. Respectfully, Natalia Liviero Address: 770 Claughton Is. Dr., Apt. # 1108 City: Miami Zip code: 33131 6 Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk Telephone : 305-586-0620 Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk Melendez, Eleazar From: Melendez, Eleazar Sent: Thursday, January 28, 2016 7:36 PM To: 'SANGEETA BANERJEE' Subject: RE: SAY NO Ms. Banerjee: Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016,.City -Clerk- Thank you for taking the time and energy to write us. We hear you loud and clear. Please know that aside from this email, Commissioner Russell has seen the hundreds of signatures on various petitions for this issue, read through dozens of emails and letters our office has received and handled several calls calling for designation. We understand that preserving the historic character of neighborhood landmarks is important in 21st-century cities. Additionally, as you might know, Commissioner Russell is dedicated to responsible development throughout Miami that takes into account input from neighbors. At the same time, and as you certainly know, there are two sides to every issue. This one is no exception, and Commissioner Russell has read through dozens of emails and letters, as well as many calls to our office, opposing a historic designation. The main argument in opposition, that imposing certain conditions on the existing structure could impede the free practice of religion, is not something we are going to ignore or discard lightly. It's been the impression from Commissioner Russell, talking to folks on both sides of this dispute, that the debate so far has been unusually and unnecessarily harsh. Perhaps we are wrong, but given the Commissioner is coming in fresh to his position and to this policy matter, we see significant space for finding a meeting of the minds. We don't believe opposing sides should be entrenched on this one as either "pro -designation" or "anti -designation", but think we can all come together on an agreement: one that absolutely protects the historic landmark while also respecting the religious rights of the diocese that occupies the building. Today, the commissioner has requested the historic designation be deferred for a month. Commissioner Russell will then work with the Melkite diocese and various preservationists to find that path moving forward that can satisfy all sides. Stay tuned. Thanks again for reaching out, Eleazar David Melendez Director of Strategy and Communications Office of Commissioner Ken Russell Miami City Hall 3500 Pan American Drive Miami, Florida 33133 Office: 305-250-5335 Mobile: 212-729-6672 From: SANGEETA BANERJEE [mailto:sangeetabl2@msn.com] Sent: Sunday, January 24, 2016 1:14 PM 8 To: Russell, Ken (Commissioner) <krussell@miamigov.com>; Regalado, Tomas (Mayor) <TRegalado@miamigov.com>; Gort, Wifredo (Commissioner) <wgort@miamigov.com>; Suarez, Francis (Commissioner) <fsuarez@miamigov.com>; khardemom@miamigov.com; Carollo, Frank (Commissioner -Office) <FCarolloOffice@miamigov.com> Subject: SAY NO Dear Commissioners and Mayor Regalado, I am a parishioner at St. Jude Melkite Church. St Jude's primary significance is religious and we respectfully ask the Commission to respect the separation of Church and State as our US constitution guarantees. The decisions of both the 11th Circuit Court and the third Court of Appeals affirmed the curches' Primary Significance as religious. I am OPPOSED to Historical designation of the St. Jude Melkite Church as it would increase its operating costs threatening the very existence of my church. The Historical designation will interfere with the practice of religion. I respectfully ask the City of Miami to respect the sanctity of our religious practice.Thank you for considering my request and for your public service. Sincerely, Sangeeta Banerjee, Esq 13155 Ixora Court, Unit 905 Miami, Florida 33181 (954) 213-1754 9 Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk Melendez, Eleazar Submitted into the public record for item(s) P2.7 on 02 25 2ix City Clerk From: Melendez, Eleazar Sent: Thursday, January 28, 2016 7:35 PM To: 'Beppina Azrak' Subject: RE: Please vote against Historic Designation for St Jude Melkite Church Ms. Azrak: Thank you for taking the time and energy to write us. We hear you loud and clear. Please know that aside from this email, Commissioner Russell has seen the hundreds of signatures on various petitions for this issue, read through dozens of emails and letters our office has received and handled several calls calling for designation. We understand that preserving the historic character of neighborhood landmarks is important in 21st-century cities. Additionally, as you might know, Commissioner Russell is dedicated to responsible developmentthroughout Miami that takes into account input from neighbors. At the same time, and as you certainly know, there are two sides to every issue. This one is no exception, and Commissioner Russell has read through dozens of emails and letters, as well as many calls to our office, opposing a historic designation. The main argument in opposition, that imposing certain conditions on the existingstructure could impede the free practice of religion, is not something we are going to ignore or discard lightly. It's been the impression from Commissioner Russell, talking to folks on both sides of this dispute, that the debate so far has been unusually and unnecessarily harsh. Perhaps we are wrong, but given the Commissioner is coming in fresh to his position and to this policy matter, we see significant space for finding a meeting of the minds. We don't believe opposing sides should be entrenched on this one as either "pro -designation" or "anti -designation", but think we can all come together on an agreement: one that absolutely protects the historic landmark while also respecting the religious rights of the diocese that occupies the building. Today, the commissioner has requested the historic designation be deferred for a month. Commissioner Russell will then work with the Melkite diocese and various preservationists to find that path moving forward that can satisfy all sides. Stay tuned. Thanks again for reaching out, Eleazar David Melendez Director of Strategy and Communications Office of Commissioner Ken Russell Miami City Hall 3500 Pan American Drive Miami, Florida 33133 Office: 305-250-5335 Mobile: 212-729-6672 From: Beppina Azrak [mailto:pinaaz@bellsouth.net] Sent: Sunday, January 24, 2016 1:47 PM 10 To: Russell, Ken (Commissioner) <krussell@miamigov.com> Cc: office@stjudemiami.org Subject: Please vote against Historic Designation for St Jude Melkite Church January, 2016 Dear Commissioner Russell: Submitted into the public record for item(s) P2,7 on 02 25 2016, City Clerk I worship at St Jude Melkite Catholic Church and am a member of the Parish Pastoral Advisory Council. Since St Jude's primary significance is religious, respectfully we ask the Commission to respect the Separation of Church and State as our US Constitution guarantees. The Decisions of both The 1 lth Circuit Court and The Third District Court affirmed our Primary Significance as Religious. National and Local ordinances exempt Churches. I am opposed to Historical designation of St Jude Melkite Church as it would increase operating costs threatening the very existence of St Jude Melkite Shrine Church; interfering with the practice of religion and the constitutional separation of Church and State. I appreciate any support you can provide in this matter, as the continual legal fees and disturbances have been going on for years disturbing the peace of the Parish. Again, I visit St Jude's for religious worship and respectfully ask The City of Miami to respect the sanctity of my religious practice. Please vote against Historic Designation for our parish. Thank you for considering my request and for your public service Respectfully, Name: Beppina Azrak Address: 13120 SW 105 Avenue City: Miami Zip code:33176 Telephone : 305-278-7520 11 Melendez, Eleazar From: Melendez, Eleazar Sent: Thursday, January 28, 2016 7:35 PM To: 'Leila Mekkri' Subject: RE: St. Jude Melkite Greek Catholic Church Ms. Mekkri: Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 25 2016 City Clerk Thank you for taking the time and energy to write us. We hear you loud and clear. Please know that aside from this email, Commissioner Russell has seen the hundreds of signatures on various petitions for this issue, read through dozens of emails and letters our office has received and handled several calls calling for designation. We understand that preserving the historic character of neighborhood landmarks is important in 21st-century cities. Additionally, as you might know, Commissioner Russell is dedicated to responsible development throughout Miami that takes into account input from neighbors. At the same time, and as you certainly know, there are two sides to every issue. This one is no exception, and Commissioner Russell has read through dozens of emails and letters, as well as many calls to our office, opposing a historic designation. The main argument in opposition, that imposing certain conditions on the existing structure could impede the free practice of religion, is not something we are going to ignore or discard lightly. It's been the impression from Commissioner Russell, talking to folks on both sides of this dispute, that the debate so far has been unusually and unnecessarily harsh. Perhaps we are wrong, but given the Commissioner is coming in fresh to his position and to this policy matter, we see significant space for finding a meeting of the minds. We don't believe opposing sides should be entrenched on this one as either "pro -designation" or "anti -designation", but think we can all come together on an agreement: one that absolutely protects the historic landmark while also respecting the religious rights of the diocese that occupies the building. Today, the commissioner has requested the historic designation be deferred for a month. Commissioner Russell will then work with the Melkite diocese and various preservationists to find that path moving forward that can satisfy all sides. Stay tuned. Thanks again for reaching out, Eleazar David Melendez Director of Strategy and Communications Office of Commissioner Ken Russell Miami City Hail 3500 Pan American Drive Miami, Florida 33133 Office: 305-250-5335 Mobile: 212-729-6672 From: Leila Mekkri [mailto:l.mekkri@gmail.com] Sent: Sunday, January 24, 2016 7:42 PM 12 To: Russell, Ken (Commissioner) <krussell@miamigov.com> Cc: office@stjudemiami.org Subject: St. Jude Melkite Greek Catholic Church January 2016 Dear Commissioner Russell: Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk I worship at St Jude Melkite Catholic Church and am a member of the Parish Pastoral Advisory Council. Since St Jude's primary significance is religious, respectfully we ask the Commission to respect the Separation of Church and State as our US Constitution guarantees. The Decisions of both The I lth Circuit Court and The Third District Court affirmed our Primary Significance as. Religious. National and Local ordinances exempt Churches. I am opposed to Historical designation of St Jude Melkite Church as it would increase operating costs threatening the very existence of St Jude Melkite Shrine Church; interfering with the practice of religion and the constitutional separation of Church and State. I appreciate any support you can provide in this matter, as the continual legal fees and disturbances have been going on for years disturbing the peace of the Parish. Again, I visit St Jude's for religious worship and respectfully ask The City of Miami to respect the sanctity of my religious practice. Please vote against Historic Designation for our parish. Thank you for considering my request and for your public service Respectfully, Leila Mekkri Address: 9840 Hammocks BLVD Apt 106 City: Miami Zip code: 33196 Telephone: (786) 564-1742 13 Melendez, Eleazar Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk From: Melendez, Eleazar Sent: Thursday, January 28, 2016 7:32 PM To: 'LESLIE MARIA' Subject: RE: NO Historical Designation for St Jude's Church Ms. Martinez Thank you for taking the time and energy to write us. We hear you loud and clear. Please know that aside from this email, Commissioner Russell has seen the hundreds of signatures on various petitions for this issue, read through dozens of emails and letters our office has received and handled several calls calling for designation. We understand that preserving the historic character of neighborhood landmarks is important in 21st-century cities. Additionally, as you might know, Commissioner Russell is dedicated to responsible development throughout Miami that takes into account input from neighbors. At the same time, and as you certainly know, there are two sides to every issue. This one is no exception, and Commissioner Russell has read through dozens of emails and letters, as well as many calls to our office, opposing a historic designation. The main argument in opposition, that imposing certain conditions on the existing structure could impede the free practice of religion, is not something we are going to ignore or discard lightly. It's been the impression from Commissioner Russell, talking to folks on both sides of this dispute, that the debate so far has been unusually and unnecessarily harsh. Perhaps we are wrong, but given the Commissioner is coming in fresh to his position and to this policy matter, we see significant space for finding a meeting of the minds. We don't believe opposing sides should be entrenched on this one as either "pro -designation" or "anti -designation", but think we can all come together on an agreement: one that absolutely protects the historic landmark while also respecting the religious rights of the diocese that occupies the building. Today, the commissioner has requested the historic designation be deferred for a month. Commissioner Russell will then work with the Melkite diocese and various preservationists to find that path moving forward that can satisfy all sides. Stay tuned. Thanks again for reaching out, Eleazar David Melendez Director of Strategy and Communications Office of Commissioner Ken Russell Miami City Hall 3500 Pan American Drive Miami, Florida 33133 Office: 305-250-5335 Mobile: 212-729-6672 From: LESLIE MARIA [mailto:Iesliemaria@hotmail.com] Sent: Monday, January 25, 2016 11:17 AM 14 To: Russell, Ken (Commissioner) <krussell@miamigov.com>; Regalado, Tomas (Mayor) <TRegalado@miamigov.com>; Gort, Wifredo (Commissioner) <wgort@miamigov.com>; Suarez, Francis (Commissioner) <fsuarez@miamigov.com>; Hardemon, Keon (Commissioner) <khardemon@miamigov.com>; Carollo, Frank (Commissioner -Office) <FCarolloOffice@miamigov.com> Subject: NO Historical Designation for St Jude's Church Importance: High 2016 Dear Commissioners and Mayor Regalado, I worship at St Jude Melkite Church. St Jude"s primary significance is religious, respectfully we ask the Commission, to respect the Separation of Church and State as our US Constitution guarantees. The Decisions of both The 11th Circuit Court and The Third District Court affirmed our Primary Significance as Religious. National and Local ordinances exempt Churches. I am opposed to Historical designation of St Jude Melkite Church as it would increase operating costs threatening the very existence of St Jude Melkite Shrine Church; interfering with the practice of religion and the constitutional separation of Church and State. I appreciate any support you can provide in this matter, as the continual legal fees and disturbances have been going on for years disturbing the peace of the Parish. Again, I visit St Jude's for religious worship and respectfully ask The City of Miami to respect the sanctity of my religious practice. Thank you for considering my request and for your public service Respectfully, Name: LESLIE E MARTINEZ Address: 5820 SW 94th PL MIAMI FL 33173-1552 15 Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk Telephone : 786-499-9594 16 Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk Melendez, Eleazar From: Melendez, Eleazar Sent: Thursday, January 28, 2016 7:31 PM To: 'Elizabeth Palacio' Subject: RE: St Jude's Church Ms. Palacio: Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016,-City Clerk Thank you for taking the time and energy to write us. We hear you loud and clear. Please know that aside from this email, Commissioner Russell has seen the hundreds of signatures on various petitions for this issue, read through dozens of emails and letters our office has received and handled several calls calling for designation. We understand that preserving the historic character of neighborhood landmarks is important in 21st-century cities. Additionally, as you might know, Commissioner Russell is dedicated to responsible development throughout Miami that takes into account input from neighbors. At the same time, and as you certainly know, there are two sides to every issue. This one is no exception, and Commissioner Russell has read through dozens of emails and letters, as well as many calls to our office, opposing a historic designation. The main argument in opposition, that imposing certain conditions on the existing structure could impede the free practice of religion, is not something we are going to ignore or discard lightly. It's been the impression from Commissioner Russell, talking to folks on both sides of this dispute, that the debate so far has been unusually and unnecessarily harsh. Perhaps we are wrong, but given the Commissioner is coming in fresh to his position and to this policy matter, we see significant space for finding a meeting of the minds. We don't believe opposing sides should be entrenched on this one as either "pro -designation" or "anti -designation", but think we can all come together on an agreement: one that absolutely protects the historic landmark while also respecting the religious rights of the diocese that occupies the building. Today, the commissioner has requested the historic designation be deferred for a month. Commissioner Russell will then work with the Melkite diocese and various preservationists to find that path moving forward that can satisfy all sides. Stay tuned. Thanks again for reaching out, Eleazar David Melendez Director of Strategy and Communications Office of Commissioner Ken Russell Miami City Hall 3500 Pan American Drive Miami, Florida 33133 Office: 305-250-5335 Mobile: 212-729-6672 Original Message From: Elizabeth Palacio [mailto:epalacio2@gmail.com] Sent: Monday, January 25, 2016 4:36 PM 17 To: Russell, Ken (Commissioner) <krussell@miamigov.com>; Regalado, Tomas (Mayor) <TRegalado@miamigov.com>; Gort, Wifredo (Commissioner) <wgort@miamigov.com>; Suarez, Francis (Commissioner) <fsuarez@miamigov.com>; Hardemon, Keon (Commissioner) <khardemon@miamigov.com>; Carollo, Frank (Commissioner -Office) <FCarolloOffice@miamigov.com> Subject: St Jude's Church Dear Sirs: Please don't let them sway you from designating it a "National Treasure."It has been standing there for more than 40 years!! Elizabeth Palacio. Sent from my iPad 18 Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk Melendez, Eleazar Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 _= on 02/25/2016 City Cle& From: Melendez, Eleazar Sent: Thursday, January 28, 2016 7:29 PM To: 'Fernandes, Juliana' Subject: RE: NO Historical Designation for St Jude's Church Ms. Fernandes: Thank you for taking the time and energy to write us. We hear you loud and clear. Please know that aside from this email, Commissioner Russell has seen the hundreds of signatures on various petitions for this issue, read through dozens of emails and letters our office has received and handled several calls calling for designation. We understand that preserving the historic character of neighborhood landmarks is important in 21st-century cities. Additionally, as you might know, Commissioner Russell is dedicated to responsible development throughout Miami that takes into account input from neighbors. At the same time, and as you certainly know, there are two sides to every issue. This one is no exception, and Commissioner Russell has read through dozens of emails and letters, as well as many calls to our office, opposing a historic designation. The main argument in opposition, that imposing certain conditions on the existing structure could impede the free practice of religion, is not something we are going to ignore or discard lightly. It's been the impression from Commissioner Russell, talking to folks on both sides of this dispute, that the debate so far has been unusually and unnecessarily harsh. Perhaps we are wrong, but given the Commissioner is coming in fresh to his position and to this policy matter, we see significant space for finding a meeting of the minds.. We don't believe opposing sides should be entrenched on this one as either "pro -designation" or "anti -designation", but think we can all come together on an agreement: one that absolutely protects the historic landmark while also respecting the religious rights of the diocese that occupies the building. Today, the commissioner will be requesting the historic designation be deferred for a month. Commissioner Russell will then work with the Melkite diocese and various preservationists to find that path moving forward that can satisfy all sides. Stay tuned. Thanks again for reaching out, Eleazar David Melendez Director of Strategy and Communications Office of Commissioner Ken Russell Miami City Hall 3500 Pan American Drive Miami, Florida 33133 Office: 305-250-5335 Mobile: 212-729-6672 From: Fernandes, Juliana [mailto:juliana@miami.edu] Sent: Monday, January 25, 2016 10:07 PM To: Russell, Ken (Commissioner) <krussell@miamigov.com>; Hardemon, Keon (Commissioner) 19 <khardemon@miamigov.com>; Carollo, Frank (Commissioner -Office) <FCarolloOffice@miamigov.com>; Regalado, Tomas (Mayor) <TRegalado@miamigov.com>; Gort, Wifredo (Commissioner) <wgort@miamigov.com>; Suarez, Francis (Commissioner) <fsuarez@miamigov.com> Cc: Notifications@stjudemimai.org Subject: NO Historical Designation for St Jude's Church Dear Commissioners and Mayor Regalado, worship at St Jude Melkite Church. St Jude's primary significance is religious, respectfully I ask the Commission to respect the Separation of Church and State as our US Constitution guarantees. The Decisions of both The 11th Circuit Court and The Third District Court affirmed our Primary Significance as Religious. National and Local ordinances exempt Churches. I am opposed to Historical designation of St Jude Melkite Church as it would increase operating costs threatening the very existence of St Jude Melkite Shrine Church; interfering with the practice of religion and the constitutional separation of Church and State. appreciate any support you can provide in this matter, as the continual legal fees and disturbances have been going on for years disturbing the peace of the Parish. Again, I visit St Jude's for religious worship and respectfully ask The City of Miami to respect the sanctity of my religious practice. Thank you for considering my request and for your public service. Respectfully, Name: Juliana Fernandes Address: 1541 Brickell Ave City: Miami Zip code: 33129 Telephone : 352-8701759 Juliana Fernandes, Ph.D. Assistant Professor School of Communication University of Miami Wolfson Building 3002 Coral Gables, FL 33146 e-mail: juliana@miami.edu Twitter: @researchpuzzle 20 Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk Melendez, Eleazar From: Melendez, Eleazar Sent: Thursday, January 28, 2016 7:27 PM To: 'Jose Z Inturias' Subject: RE: St. Jude Brikell Mr. Inturias: Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016,..City Clerk. Thank you for taking the time and energy to write us. We hear you loud and clear. Please know that aside from this email, Commissioner Russell has seen the hundreds of signatures on various petitions for this issue, read through dozens of emails and letters our office has received and handled several calls calling for designation. We understand that preserving the historic character of neighborhood landmarks is important in 21st-century cities. Additionally, as you might know; Commissioner Russell is dedicated toresponsibledevelopment throughout Miami that takes into account input from neighbors. At the same time, and as you certainly know, there are two sides to every issue. This one is no exception, and Commissioner Russell has read through dozens of emails and letters, as well as many calls to our office, opposing a historic designation. The main argument in opposition, that imposing certain conditions on the existing structure could impede the free practice of religion, is not something we are going to ignore or discard lightly. It's been the impression from Commissioner Russell, talking to folks on both sides of this dispute, that the debate so far has been unusually and unnecessarily harsh. Perhaps we are wrong, but given the Commissioner is coming in fresh to his position and to this policy matter, we see significant space for finding a meeting of the minds. We don't believe opposing sides should be entrenched on this one as either "pro -designation" or "anti -designation", but think we can all come together on an agreement: one that absolutely protects the historic landmark while also respecting the religious rights of the diocese that occupies the building. Today, the commissioner has requested the historic designation be deferred for a month. Commissioner Russell will then work with the Melkite diocese and various preservationists to find that path moving forward that can satisfy all sides. Stay tuned. Thanks again for reaching out, Eleazar David Melendez Director of Strategy and Communications Office of Commissioner Ken Russell Miami City Hall 3500 Pan American Drive Miami, Florida 33133 Office: 305-250-5335 Mobile: 212-729-6672 Original Message From: Jose Z Inturias [mailto:jzinturias@gmail.com] Sent: Monday, January 25, 2016 11:37 PM 21 To: Russell, Ken (Commissioner) <krussell@miamigov.com>; Regalado, Tomas (Mayor) <TRegalado@miamigov.com>; Gort, Wifredo (Commissioner) <wgort@miamigov.com>; Suarez, Francis (Commissioner) <fsuarez@miamigov.com>; Hardemon, Keon (Commissioner) <khardemon@miamigov.com>; Carollo, Frank (Commissioner -Office) <FCarolloOffice@miamigov.com> Subject: St. Jude Brikell Good evening, This email is regarding St. Jude church in Brickell. I kindly ask you to NOT designate my church a historical building. " NO A LA DESIGNACION HISTORICA DE LA IGLESIA DE SAN JUDAS" Thank you, Jose Z. Inturias 305 733 2924 Sent from my iPhone 22 Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk Melendez, Eleazar From: Melendez, Eleazar Sent: Thursday, January 28, 2016 7:27 PM To: 'Ariel J. Inturias' Subject: RE: St. Jude Brikell Mr. Inturias: Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 =on 02/25/2016, City Clerk Thank you for taking the time and energy to write us. We hear you loud and clear. Please know that aside from this email, Commissioner Russell has seen the hundreds of signatures on various petitions for this issue, read through dozens of emails and letters our office has received and handled several calls calling for designation. We understand that preserving the historic character of neighborhood landmarks is important in 21st-century cities. Additionally, as you might know, Commissioner Russell is dedicated to responsible development throughout Miami that takes into account input from neighbors. At the same time, and as you certainly know, there are two sides to every issue. This one is no exception, and Commissioner Russell has read through dozens of emails and letters, as well as many calls to our office, opposing a historic designation. The main argument in opposition, that imposing certain conditions on the existing structure could impede the free practice of religion, is not something we are going to ignore or discard lightly. It's been the impression from Commissioner Russell, talking to folks on both sides of this dispute, that the debate so far has been unusually and unnecessarily harsh. Perhaps we are wrong, but given the Commissioner is coming in fresh to his position and to this policy matter, we see significant space for finding a meeting of the minds. We don't believe opposing sides should be entrenched on this one as either "pro -designation" or "anti -designation", but think we can all come together on an agreement: one that absolutely protects the historic landmark while also respecting the religious rights of the diocese that occupies the building. Today, the commissioner will be requesting the historic designation be deferred for a month. Commissioner Russell will then work with the Melkite diocese and various preservationists to find that path moving forward that can satisfy all sides. Stay tuned. Thanks again for reaching out, Eleazar David Melendez Director of Strategy and Communications Office of Commissioner Ken Russell Miami City Hall 3500 Pan American Drive Miami, Florida 33133 Office: 305-250-5335 Mobile: 212-729-6672 Original Message From: Ariel J. Inturias [mailto:aintu001@a fiu.edu] Sent: Monday, January 25, 2016 11:29 PM 23 To: Russell, Ken (Commissioner) <krussell@miamigov.com>; Regalado, Tomas (Mayor) <TRegalado@miamigov.com>; Gort, Wifredo (Commissioner) <wgort@miamigov.com>; Suarez, Francis (Commissioner) <fsuarez@miamigov.com>; Hardemon, Keon (Commissioner) <khardemon@miamigov.com>; Carollo, Frank (Commissioner -Office) <FCarolloOffice@miamigov.com> Subject: St. Jude Brikell Good evening, This email is regarding St. Jude church in Brickell. I.kindly ask you to NOT designate my church a historical building. It is not a museum. It is a place where my family and I find guidance and peace every Sunday after the struggles of the week. Please don't take that away. " NO A LA DESIGNACION HIST6RICA DE LA IGLESIA DE SAN JUDAS" Thank you, ARIEL J. INTURIAS aintu001@fiu.edu 305-812-8756 16948 SW 142nd PI. Miami, FL 33177 24 Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk Melendez, Eleazar Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk From: Melendez, Eleazar Sent: , Thursday, January 28, 2016 7:26 PM To: 'Jenny Barroso' Subject: RE: NO Historical Designation for St Jude's Church Ms. Barroso: Thank you for taking the time and energy to write us. We hear you loud and clear. Please know that aside from this email, Commissioner Russell has seen the hundreds of signatures on various petitions for this issue, read through dozens of emails and letters our office has received and handled several calls calling for designation. We understand that preserving the historic character of neighborhood landmarks is important in 21st-century cities. Additionally, as you might know, Commissioner Russell is dedicated to responsible development throughout Miami that takes into account input from neighbors. At the same time, and as you certainly know, there are two sides to every issue. This one is no exception, and Commissioner Russell has read through dozens of emails and letters, as well as many calls to our office, opposing a historic designation. The main argument in opposition, that imposing certain conditions on the existing structure could impede the free practice of religion, is not something we are going to ignore or discard lightly. It's been the impression from Commissioner Russell, talking to folks on both sides of this dispute, that the debate so far has been unusually and unnecessarily harsh. Perhaps we are wrong, but given the Commissioner is coming in fresh to his position and to this policy matter, we see significant space for finding a meeting of the minds. We don't believe opposing sides should be entrenched on this one as either "pro -designation" or "anti -designation", but think we can all come together on an agreement: one that absolutely protects the historic landmark while also respecting the religious rights of the diocese that occupies the building. Today,the_ commissioner will -be requesting thehistoric designation be -deferred fora month. Commissioner Russell -will then work with the Melkite diocese and various preservationists to find that path moving forward that can satisfy all sides. Stay tuned. Thanks again for reaching out, Eleazar David Melendez Director of Strategy and Communications Office of Commissioner Ken Russell Miami City Hall 3500 Pan American Drive Miami, Florida 33133 Office: 305-250-5335 Mobile: 212-729-6672 From: Jenny Barroso [mailto:barrosita@gmail.com] Sent: Tuesday,January 26, 2016 7:43 AM To: Russell, Ken (Commissioner) <krussell@miamigov.com>; Gort, Wifredo (Commissioner) <wgort@miamigov.com>; 25 Regalado, Tomas (Mayor) <TRegalado@miamigov.com>; Suarez, Francis (Commissioner) <fsuarez@miamigov.com>; Hardemon, Keon (Commissioner) <khardemon@miamigov.com>; Carollo, Frank (Commissioner -Office) <FCarolloOffice@miamigov.com>; Notifications@stjudemimai.org Subject: NO Historical Designation for St Jude's Church Pear Commissioners and Mayor Regalado, I support St Jude Melkite Church. St Jude's primary significance is religious, respectfully we ask the Commission to respect the Separation of Church and State as our US Constitution guarantees. he Decisions of both The llth Circuit Court and The Third District Court affirmed our Primary' Significance as Religious. National and Local ordinances exempt Churches. I am opposed to Historical designation of St Jude Melkite Church as it would increase operating costs threatening the very existence of St Jude Melkite Shrine Church; interfering with the practice of religion and the constitutional separation of Church and State. I appreciate any support you can provide in this matter, as the continual legal fees and disturbances have been going on for years disturbing the peace of the Parish 'Again, I support St Jude's and respectfully ask The City of Miami to respect the sanctity of its religious f practice. Thank you for considering my request and for your public service (Respectfully, Jennifer Barroso 11159 NW 80th Lane 'Dora' FL 33178 786.657.4847 Sent from my iPhone 26 Submitted into the public record for item(s) P on 02 25 2016 City Clerk Melendez, Eleazar Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 =on 02/25/2016, City Clerk ■ From: Melendez, Eleazar Sent: Thursday, January 28, 2016 7:25 PM To: 'Rommel Uzcategui' Subject: RE: NO Historical Designation for St Jude's Church Mr. Uzcategui: Thank you for taking the time and energy to write us. We hear you loud and clear. Please know that aside from this email, Commissioner Russell has seen the hundreds of signatures on various petitions for this issue, read through dozens of emails and letters our office has received and handled several calls calling for designation. We understand that. preserving the historic character of neighborhood landmarks is important in 21st-century cities. Additionally, as you might know, Commissioner Russell is dedicated to responsible development throughout Miami that takes into account input from neighbors. At the same time, and as you certainly know, there are two sides to every issue. This one is no exception, and Commissioner Russell has read through dozens of emails and letters, as well as many calls to our office, opposing a historic designation. The main argument in opposition, that imposing certain conditions on the existing structure could impede the free practice of religion, is not something we are going to ignore or discard lightly. It's been the impression from Commissioner Russell, talking to folks on both sides of this dispute, that the debate so far has been unusually and unnecessarily harsh. Perhaps we are wrong, but given the Commissioner is coming in fresh to his position and to this policy matter, we see significant space for finding a meeting of the minds. We don't believe opposing sides should be entrenched on this one as either "pro -designation" or "anti -designation", but think we can all come together on an agreement: one that absolutely protects the historic landmark while also respecting the religious rights of the diocese that occupies the building. Today, the commissioner will be requesting the historic designation be deferred for a month. Commissioner Russell will then work with the Melkite diocese and various preservationists to find that path moving forward that can satisfy all sides. Stay tuned. Thanks again for reaching out, Eleazar David Melendez Director of Strategy and Communications Office of Commissioner Ken Russell Miami City Hall 3500 Pan American Drive Miami, Florida 33133 Office: 305-250-5335 Mobile: 212-729-6672 From: Rommel Uzcategui [mailto:rommelsaab@hotmail.com] Sent: Tuesday, January 26, 2016 7:46 AM To: Regalado, Tomas (Mayor) <TRegalado@miamigov.com>; Suarez, Francis (Commissioner) <fsuarez@miamigov.com>; 27 Carollo, Frank (Commissioner -Office) <FCarolloOffice@miamigov.com>; Notifications@stjudemimai.org; Hardemon, Keon (Commissioner) <khardemon@miamigov.com>; Gort, Wifredo (Commissioner) <wgort@miamigov.com>; Russell, Ken (Commissioner) <krussell@miamigov.com> Subject: NO Historical Designation for St Jude's Church Dear Commissioners and Mayor Regalado, I support St Jude Melkite Church. St Jude"s primary significance is religious, respectfully we ask the Commission to respect the Separation of Church and State as our US Constitution guarantees. The Decisions of both The 1 lth Circuit Court and The Third District Court affirmed our Primary Significance as Religious. National and Local ordinances exempt Churches. I am opposed to Historical designation of St Jude Melkite Church as it would increase operating costs threatening the very existence of St Jude Melkite Shrine Church; interfering with the practice of religion and the constitutional separation of Church and State. I appreciate any support you can provide in this matter, as the continual legal fees and disturbances have been going on for years disturbing the peace of the Parish. Again, I support St Jude's and respectfully ask The City of Miami to respect the sanctity of its religious practice. Thank you for considering my request and for your public service Respectfully, Rommel L Uzcategui 10900 NW 67th Street Doral, F133178 786-499-5203. Sent from Outlook Mobile 28 Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk Melendez, Eleazar From: Melendez, Eleazar Sent: Thursday, January 28, 2016 7:25 PM To: 'Maria Cecilia Gariboldi' Subject: RE: St Jude Ms. Gariboldi: Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk Thank you for taking the time and energy to write us. We hear you loud and clear. Please know that aside from this email, Commissioner Russell has seen the hundreds of signatures on various petitions for this issue, read through dozens of emails and letters our office has received and handled several calls calling for designation. We understand that preserving the historic character of neighborhood landmarks is important in 21st-century cities. Additionally, as you might know, Commissioner Russell is dedicated to responsible development throughout Miami that takes into account input from neighbors. At the same time, and as you certainly know, there are two sides to every issue. This one is no exception, and Commissioner Russell has read through dozens of emails and letters, as well as many calls to our office, opposing a historic designation. The main argument in opposition, that imposing certain conditions on the existing structure could impede the free practice of religion, is not something we are going to ignore or discard lightly. It's been the impression from Commissioner Russell, talking to folks on both sides of this dispute, that the debate so far has been unusually and unnecessarily harsh. Perhaps we are wrong, but given the Commissioner is coming in fresh to his position and to this policy matter, we see significant space for finding a meeting of the minds. We don't believe opposing sides should be entrenched on this one as either "pro -designation" or "anti -designation", but think we can all come together on an agreement: one that absolutely protects the historic landmark while also respecting the religious rights of the diocese that occupies the building. Today, the commissioner will be requesting the historic designation be deferred for a month. Commissioner Russell will then work with the Melkite diocese and various preservationists to find that path moving forward that can satisfy all sides. Stay tuned. Thanks again for reaching out, Eleazar David Melendez Director of Strategy and Communications Office of Commissioner Ken Russell Miami City Hall 3500 Pan American Drive Miami, Florida 33133 Office: 305-250-5335 Mobile: 212-729-6672 From: Maria Cecilia Garibaldi [mailto:gariboldi22@gmail.com] Sent: Tuesday, January 26, 2016 10:26 AM To: Russell, Ken (Commissioner) <krussell@miamigov.com>; Suarez, Francis (Commissioner) <fsuarez@miamigov.com> 29 Cc: Regalado, Tomas (Mayor) <TRegalado@miamigov.com> Subject: St Jude January 26;2016 Dear Commissioners and Mayor Regalado, Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk I worship at St Jude Melkite Church. St Jude's primary significance is religious, respectfully we ask the Commission to respect the Separation of Church and State as our US Constitution guarantees. The Decisions of both The 1 lth Circuit Court and The Third District Court affirmed our Primary Significance as Religious. National and Local ordinances exempt Churches. I am opposed to Historical designation of St Jude Melkite Church as it would increase operating costs threatening the very existence of St Jude Melkite Shrine Church; interfering with the practice of religion and the constitutional separation of Church and State. I appreciate any support you can provide in this matter, as the continual legal fees and disturbances have been going on for years disturbing the peace.of the Parish. Again, I visit St Jude's for religious worship and respectfully ask The City of Miami to respect the sanctity of my religious practice. Thank you for considering my request and for your public service Respectfully, Nombre Maria Cecilia Gariboldi Direccion 2451 Brickell Ave Telefono Enviado de Samsung Mobile 30 Submitted into the public Melendez, Eleazar —record=for-item(s) PZ.7 From: Melendez, Eleazar on 02/25/2016, City Clerk Sent: Thursday, January 28, 2016 7:23 PM To: 'Andrea' Subject: RE: Subject: NO Historical Designation for St Jude's Church Ms. Arinez: Thank you for taking the time and energy to write us. We hear you loud and clear. Please know that aside from this email, Commissioner Russell has seen the hundreds of signatures on various petitions for this issue, read through dozens of emails and letters our office has received and handled several calls calling for designation. We understand that preserving the historic character of neighborhood landmarks is important in 21st-century cities. Additionally, as you might know, Commissioner Russell is dedicated to responsible development throughout Miami that takes into account input from neighbors. At the same time, and as you certainly know, there are two sides to every issue. This one is no exception, and Commissioner Russell has read through dozens of emails and letters, as well as many calls to our office, opposing a historic designation. The main argument in opposition, that imposing certain conditions on the existing structure could impede the free practice of religion, is not something we are going to ignore or discard lightly. It's been the impression from Commissioner Russell, talking to folks on both sides of this dispute, that the debate so far has been unusually and unnecessarily harsh. Perhaps we are wrong, but given the Commissioner is coming in fresh to his position and to this policy matter, we see significant space for finding a meeting of the minds. We don't believe opposing sides should be entrenched on this one as either "pro -designation" or "anti -designation", but think we can all come together on an agreement: one that absolutely protects the historic landmark while also respecting the religious rights of the diocese that occupies the building. Today, the commissioner will be requesting the historic designation be deferred for a month. Commissioner Russell will then work with the Melkite diocese and various preservationists to find that path moving forward that can satisfy all sides. Stay tuned. Thanks again for reaching out, Eleazar David Melendez Director of Strategy and Communications Office of Commissioner Ken Russell Miami City Hall 3500 Pan American Drive Miami, Florida 33133 Office: 305-250-5335 Mobile: 212-729-6672 From: Andrea [mailto:aarinez@gmail.com] Sent: Tuesday, January 26, 2016 10:39 AM To: Russell, Ken (Commissioner) <krussell@miamigov.com>; Regalado, Tomas (Mayor) <TRegalado@miamigov.com>; 31 Gort, Wifredo (Commissioner) <wgort@miamigov.com>; Suarez, Francis (Commissioner) <fsuarez@miamigov.com>; Hardemon, Keon (Commissioner) <khardemon@miamigov.com>; Carollo, Frank (Commissioner -Office) <FCarolloOffice@miamigov.com> Cc: guiarinez@hotmail.com Subject: Subject: NO Historical Designation for St Jude's Church (Dear Commissioners and Mayor Regalado, I support St Jude Melkite Church. St Jude"s primary significance is religious, respectfully we ask the Commission to respect the Separation of Church and State as our US Constitution guarantees. The Decisions of both The llth Circuit Court and The Third District Court affirmed our Primary Significance as Religious. National and Local ordinances exempt Churches. I am opposed to Historical designation of St Jude Melkite Church as it would increase operating costs threatening the very existence of St Jude Melkite Shrine Church; interfering with the practice of religion and the constitutional separation of Church and State. 'I appreciate any support you can provide in this matter, as the continual legal fees and disturbances have been going on for years disturbing the peace of the Parish. Again, I support St Jude's and respectfully ask The City of Miami to respect the sanctity of its religious practice. Thank you for considering my request and for your public service Respectfully, lame: Guillermo Arinez 'Address: 9916 NW 43 Terrace City: Miami Zip code: 33178 ele s hone : 305 877-319- 32 Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk Melendez, Eleazar From: Melendez, Eleazar Sent: Thursday, January 28, 2016 7:09 PM To: 'elizabeth toledo' Subject: RE: Protect St.Jude Ms. Toledo: Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk Thank you for taking the time and energy to write us. We hear you loud and clear. Please know that aside from this email, Commissioner Russell has seen the hundreds of signatures on various petitions for this issue, read through dozens of emails and letters our office has received and handled several calls calling for designation. We understand that preserving the historic character of neighborhood landmarks is important in 21st-century cities. Additionally, as you might know, Commissioner Russell is dedicated to responsible development throughout Miami that takes into account input from neighbors. At the same time, and as you certainly know, there are two sides to every issue. This one is no exception, and Commissioner Russell has read through dozens of emails and letters, as well as many calls to our office, opposing a historic designation. The main argument in opposition, that imposing certain conditions on the existing structure could impede the free practice of religion, is not something we are going to ignore or discard lightly. It's been the impression from Commissioner Russell, talking to folks on both sides of this dispute, that the debate so far has been unusually and unnecessarily harsh. Perhaps we are wrong, but given the Commissioner is coming in fresh to his position and to this policy matter, we see significant space for finding a meeting of the minds. We don't believe opposing sides should be entrenched on this one as either "pro -designation" or "anti -designation", but think we can all come together on an agreement: one that absolutely protects the historic landmark while also respecting the religious rights of the diocese that occupies the building. Today, the commissioner will be requesting the historic designation be deferred for a month. Commissioner Russell will then work with the Melkite diocese and various preservationists to find that path moving forward that can satisfy all sides. Stay tuned. Thanks again for reaching out, Eleazar David Melendez Director of Strategy and Communications Office of Commissioner Ken Russell Miami City Hall 3500 Pan American Drive Miami, Florida 33133 Office: 305-250-5335 Mobile: 212-729-6672 From: elizabeth toledo [mailto:toledomga3@gmail.com] Sent: Tuesday, January 26, 2016 9:44 PM 33 To: Russell, Ken (Commissioner) <krussell@miamigov.com>; Regalado, Tomas (Mayor) <TRegalado@miarnigov.com>; Gort, Wifredo (Commissioner) <wgort@miamigov.com>; Suarez, Francis (Commissioner) <fsuarez@miamigov.com>; Hardemon, Keon (Commissioner) <khardemon@miamigov.com>; Carollo, Frank (Commissioner -Office) <FCarollooffice@miamigov.com>; Notifications@stjudemimai.org Subject: Protect St.Jude Dear Commissioners and Mayor Regalado, I worship at St Jude Melkite Church. St Jude"s primary significance is religious, respectfully we ask the Commission to respect the Separation of Church and State as our US Constitution guarantees. The Decisions of both The 1 lth Circuit Court and The Third District Court affirmed our Primary Significance as Religious. National and Local ordinances exempt Churches. I am opposed to Historical designation of St Jude Melkite Church as it would increase operating costs threatening the very existence of St Jude Melkite Shrine Church; interferingwith the practice of religion and the constitutional separation of Church and State. I appreciate any support you can provide in this matter, as the continual legal fees and disturbances have been going on for years disturbing the peace of the Parish . Again, I visit St Jude's for religious worship and respectfully ask The City of Miami to respect the sanctity of my religious practice. Thank you for considering my request and for your public service Respectfully, Name: Elizabeth Toledo Address: 3074 NW 18 Street City: Miami Zip code:33125 Telephone:786-317-7623 34 Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk Melendez, Eleazar Submitted into the public _record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk From: Melendez, Eleazar Sent: Thursday, January 28, 2016 7:08 PM To: 'Isidro F Balmaseda' Subject: RE: NO Historical Designation for St Jude's Church Mr. Balmaseda: Thank you for taking the time and energy to write us. We hear you loud and clear. Please know that aside from this email, Commissioner Russell has seen the hundreds of signatures on various petitions for this issue, read through dozens of emails and letters our office has received and handled several calls calling for designation. We understand that preserving the historic character of neighborhood landmarks is important in 21st-century cities. Additionally, as you might know, Commissioner Russell is dedicated to responsible development throughout Miami that takes into account input from neighbors. At the same time, and as you certainly know, there are two sides to every issue. This one is no exception, and Commissioner Russell has read through dozens of emails and letters, as well as many calls to our office, opposing a historic designation. The main argument in opposition, that imposing certain conditions on the existing structure could impede the free practice of religion, is not something we are going to ignore or discard lightly. It's been the impression from Commissioner Russell, talking to folks on both sides of this dispute, that the debate so far has been unusually and unnecessarily harsh. Perhaps we are wrong, but given the Commissioner is coming in fresh to his position and to this policy matter, we see significant space for finding a meeting of the minds. We don't believe opposing sides should be entrenched on this one as either "pro -designation" or "anti -designation", but think we can all come together on an agreement: one that absolutely protects the historic landmark while also respecting the religious rights of the diocese that occupies the building. Today, the commissioner will be requesting the historic designation be deferred for a month. Commissioner Russell will then work with the Melkite diocese and various preservationists to find that path moving forward that can satisfy all sides. Stay tuned. Thanks again for reaching out, Eleazar David Melendez Director of Strategy and Communications Office of Commissioner Ken Russell Miami City Hall 3500 Pan American Drive Miami, Florida 33133 Office: 305-250-5335 Mobile: 212-729-6672 Original Message From: Isidro F Balmaseda [mailto:balma1991@yahoo.com] Sent: Wednesday, January 27, 2016 11:41 AM To: Russell, Ken (Commissioner) <krussell@miamigov.com> Subject: NO Historical Designation for St Jude's Church 35 Dear Commissioner: Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk I worship at St Jude Melkite Church. St Jude"s primary significance is religious, respectfully we ask the Commission to respect the Separation of Church and State as our US Constitution guarantees. The Decisions of both The 11th Circuit Court and The Third District Court affirmed our Primary Significance as Religious. National and Local ordinances exempt Churches. I am opposed to Historical designation of St Jude Melkite Church as it would increase operating costs threatening the very existence of St Jude Melkite Shrine Church; interfering with the practice of religion and the constitutional separation of Church and State. I appreciate any support you can provide in this matter, as the continual legal fees and disturbances have been going on for years disturbing the peace of the Parish. Again, I visit St Jude's for religious worship and respectfully ask The City of Miami to respect the sanctity of my religious practice. Thank you for considering my request and for your public service Respectfully, Name:lsidro F Balmaseda Address: 1666 west ave apt 402 City: Miami Beach Zip code:33139 Telephone : 305-364-5323 36 Melendez, Eleazar From: Melendez, Eleazar Sent: Thursday, January 28, 2016 6:59 PM To: 'George Anthony Mekkri' Subject: RE: NO Historical Designation for St Jude's Church Mr. Mekkri: Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk Thank you for taking the time and energy to write us. We hear you loud and clear. Please know that aside from this email, Commissioner Russell has read through dozens of other emails and letters, as well as many calls to our office, opposing a historic designation. We understand the concerns that imposing a designation on the existing structure could impede the free practice of religion. That is an important point and not something we are not going to ignore or discard lightly. At the same time, and as you certainly know, there are two sides to every issue. Over the past few weeks, Commissioner Russell has seen the hundreds of signatures on various petitions calling for designation, read through dozens of emails and letters our office has received and handled several calls also supportive of that. We understand that preserving the historic character of neighborhood landmarks is important in 21st-century cities. It's been the impression from Commissioner Russell, talking to folks on both sides of this dispute, that the debate so far has been unusually and unnecessarily harsh. Perhaps we are wrong, but given the Commissioner is coming in fresh to his position and to this policy matter, we see significant space for finding a meeting of the minds. We don't believe opposing sides should be entrenched on this one as either "pro -designation" or "anti -designation", but think we can all come together on an agreement: one that absolutely protects the historic landmark while also respecting the religious rights of the diocese that occupies the building. Today, the Commissioner has requested the historic designation be deferred for a month. Commissioner Russell will then work with the Melkite diocese and various preservationists to find that path moving forward that can satisfy all sides. Stay tuned. Thanks again for reaching out, Eleazar David Melendez Director of Strategy and Communications Office of Commissioner Ken Russell Miami City Hall 3500 Pan American Drive Miami, Florida 33133 Office: 305-250-5335 Mobile: 212-729-6672 From: George Anthony Mekkri [mailto:g.mekkri@gmail.com] Sent: Wednesday, January 27, 2016 12:25 PM To: Carollo, Frank (Commissioner -Office) <FCarolloOffice@miamigov.com>; Hardemon, Keon (Commissioner) 37 <khardemon@miamigov.com>; Suarez, Francis (Commissioner) <fsuarez@miamigov.com>; Gort, Wifredo (Commissioner) <wgort@miamigov.com>; Regalado, Tomas (Mayor) <TRegalado@miamigov.com>; Russell, Ken (Commissioner) <krussell@miamigov.com> Subject: NO Historical Designation for St Jude's Church Dear Commissioners and Mayor Regalado, I worship at St Jude Melkite Church. St Jude"s primary significance is religious, respectfully we ask the Commission to respect the Separation of Church and State as our US Constitution guarantees. The Decisions of both The llth Circuit Court and The Third District Court affirmed our Primary Significance as Religious. National and Local ordinances exempt Churches. - I am opposed to Historical designation of St Jude Melkite Church as it would increase operating costs threatening the very existence of St Jude Melkite Shrine Church; interferingwith the practice of religion and the constitutional separation of Church and State. I appreciate any support you can provide in this matter, as the continual legal fees and disturbances have been going on for years disturbing the peace of the Parish . Again, I visit St Jude's for religious worship and respectfully ask The City of Miami to respect the sanctity of my religious practice. Thank you for considering my request and for your public service Respectfully, George Mekkri Head Alter Boy and also a member of MAYA( Melkite Association of Young Adult) 9840 hammocks blvd apt 106 Miami, fl 33196 38 Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk Melendez, Eleazar From: Melendez, Eleazar Sent: Thursday, January 28, 2016 6:58 PM To: 'LOURDITA' Subject: RE: St Jude church Ms. Lourdita: Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 22 25 .2016, City = Clerk Thank you for taking the time and energy to write us. We hear you loud and clear. Please know that aside from this email, Commissioner Russell has read through dozens of other emails and letters, as well as many calls to our office, opposing a historic designation. We understand the concerns that imposing a designation on the existing structure could impede the free practice of religion. That is an important point and not something we are not going to ignore or discard lightly. At the same time, and as you certainly know, there are two sides to every issue. Over the past few weeks, Commissioner Russell has seen the hundreds of signatures on various petitions calling for designation, read through dozens of emails and letters our office has received and handled several calls also supportive of that. We understand that preserving the historic character of neighborhood landmarks is important in 21st-century cities. It's been the impression from Commissioner Russell, talking to folks on both sides of this dispute, that the debate so far has been unusually and unnecessarily harsh. Perhaps we are wrong, but given the Commissioner is coming in fresh to his position and to this policy matter, we see significant space for finding a meeting of the minds. We don't believe opposing sides should be entrenched on this one as either "pro -designation" or "anti -designation", but think we can all come together on an agreement: one that absolutely protects the historic landmark while also respecting the religious rights of the diocese that occupies the building. Today, the Commissioner has requested the historic designation be deferred for a month. Commissioner Russell will then work with the Melkite diocese and various preservationists to find that path moving forward that can satisfy all sides. Stay tuned. Thanks again for reaching out, Eleazar David Melendez Director of Strategy and Communications Office of Commissioner Ken Russell Miami City Hall 3500 Pan American Drive Miami, Florida 33133 Office: 305-250-5335 Mobile: 212-729-6672 Original Message From: LOLIRDITA [mailto:lourdita53@yahoo.com] Sent: Wednesday, January 27, 2016 12:27 PM To: Russell, Ken (Commissioner) <krussell@miamigov.com> 39 Subject: St Jude church No - we have the right to keep our religion and our church in the same place Sent from my iPhone Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02 a 2016, City Clerk 40 Melendez, Eleazar From: Melendez, Eleazar Sent: Thursday, January 28, 2016 6:58 PM To: 'Alfredo Rolon' Subject: RE: NO Historical Designation for St Jude's Church Rev. Rolon: Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk Thank you for taking the time and energy to write us. We hear you loud and clear. Please know that aside from this email, Commissioner Russell has read through dozens of other emails and letters, as well as many calls to our office, opposing a historic designation. We understand the concerns that imposing a designation, on the existing structure could impede the free practice of religion. That is an important point and not something we are not going to ignore or discard lightly. At the same time, and as you certainly know, there are two sides to every issue. Over the past few weeks, Commissioner Russell has seen the hundreds of signatures on various petitions calling for designation, read through dozens of emails and letters our office has received and handled several calls also supportive of that. We understand that preserving the historic character of neighborhood landmarks is important in 21st-century cities. It's been the impression from Commissioner Russell, talking to folks on both sides of this dispute, that the debate so far has been unusually and unnecessarily harsh. Perhaps we are wrong, but given the Commissioner is coming in fresh to his position and to this policy matter, we see significant space for finding a meeting of the minds. We don't believe opposing sides should be entrenched on this one as either "pro -designation" or "anti -designation", but think we can all come together on an agreement: one that absolutely protects the historic landmark while also respecting the religious rights of the diocese that occupies the building. Today, the Commissioner has requested the historic designation be deferred for a month. Commissioner Russell will then work with the Melkite diocese and various preservationists to find that path moving forward that can satisfy all sides. Stay tuned. Thanks again for reaching out, Eleazar David Melendez Director of Strategy and Communications Office of Commissioner Ken Russell Miami City Hall 3500 Pan American Drive Miami, Florida 33133 Office: 305-250-5335 Mobile: 212-729-6672 From: Alfredo Rolon [mailto:rolonalfredo@hotmail.com] Sent: Wednesday, January 27, 2016 3:49 PM To: Russell, Ken (Commissioner) <krussell@miamigov.com>; Regalado, Tomas (Mayor) <TRegalado@miamigov.com>; 41 Gort, Wifredo (Commissioner) <wgort@miamigov.com>; Suarez, Francis (Commissioner) <fsuarez@miamigov.com>; Ha rdemon, Keon (Commissioner) <khardemon@miamigov.com>; Carollo, Frank (Commissioner -Office). <FCarolloOffice@miamigov.com>; Notifications@stjudemimai.org Subject: NO Historical Designation for St Jude's Church January 27, 2016 Dear Commissioners and Mayor Regalado, As a Catholic priest and as a faithful devoted to the Apostle Jude Thadeus, every week I visit and worship at St Jude Melkite Church. It is indeed an oasis of spirituality that everybody must respect as we acknowledge that St Jude's primary significance is religious. Therefore united to the community of St. Jude we respectfully ask the Commission to respect the Separation of Church and State as our US Constitution guarantees. The Decisions of both The 11th Circuit Court and The Third District Court affirmed our Primary Significance as Religious. National and Local ordinances exempt Churches. I am opposed to Historical designation of St. Jude Melkite Church as it would increase operating costs threatening the very existence of St Jude Melkite Shrine Church; interfering with the practice of religion and the constitutional separation of Church and State. I appreciate any support you can provide in this matter, as the continual legal fees and disturbances have been going on for years disturbing the peace of the Parish and of the Parishioners and of all of those like me who go there out of devotion to St. Jude and of respect and love for the Catholic Melkite Rite. Again, I visit St. Jude's for religious worship and respectfully ask The City of Miami to respect the Sanctity of my religious practice and of the religious practice of all those who come to St. Jude Melkite Church to pray and to worship. Thank you for considering my request and for your public service. Respectfully, Rev. Alfredo A. Rolon-Ortiz 42 Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk Name: Rev. Alfredo A. Rolon-Ortiz Address: 415 NE 105 Street City: Miami Shores, FL Zip code: 33138 Telephone : 305 758-0539 Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk 43 Melendez, Eleazar From: Melendez, Eleazar Sent: Thursday, January 28, 2016 6:55 PM To: 'Benjamin Flores' Subject: RE: Saint Jude Church Mr. Flores: Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk Thank you for taking the time and energy to write us. We hear you loud and clear. Please know that aside from this email, Commissioner Russell has read through dozens of other emails and letters, as well as many calls to our office, opposing a historic designation. We understand the concerns that imposing a designation on the existing structure could impede the free practice of religion. That is an important point and not something we are not going to ignore or discard lightly. At the same time, and as you certainly know, there are two sides to every issue. Over the past few weeks, Commissioner Russell has seen the hundreds of signatures on various petitions calling for designation, read through dozens of emails and letters our office has received and handled several calls also supportive of that. We understand that preserving the historic character of neighborhood landmarks is important in 21st-century cities. It's been the impression from Commissioner Russell, talking to folks on both sides of this dispute, that the debate so far has been unusually and unnecessarily harsh. Perhaps we are wrong, but given the Commissioner is coming in fresh to his position and to this policy matter, we see significant space for finding a meeting of the minds. We don't believe opposing sides should be entrenched on this one as either "pro -designation" or "anti -designation", but think we can all come together on an agreement: one that absolutely protects the historic landmark while also respecting the religious rights of the diocese that occupies the building. Today, the Commissioner has requested the historic designation be deferred for a month. Commissioner Russell will then work with the Melkite diocese and various preservationists to find that path moving forward that can satisfy all sides. Stay tuned. Thanks again for reaching out, Eleazar David Melendez Director of Strategy and Communications Office of Commissioner Ken Russell Miami City Hall 3500 Pan American Drive Miami, Florida 33133 Office: 305-250-5335 Mobile: 212-729-6672 Original Message From: Benjamin Flores [mailto:benfloresl@hotmail.com] Sent: Wednesday, January 27, 2016 5:09 PM To: Russell, Ken (Commissioner) <krussell@miamigov.com> 44 Subject: Saint Jude Church I am againts theHistoric designation to our church Please let the Church as it is now Thank you for your help Benjamin &Rosa Flores Sent from my iPhone 45 Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk Melendez, Eleazar From:. Melendez, Eleazar Sent: Thursday, January 28, 2016 6:51 PM To: 'edward rengifo' Subject: RE: Saint Jude church Mr. Rengifo: Submitted into the public record foritem(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk Thank you for taking the time and energy to write us. We hear you loud and clear. Please know that aside from this email, Commissioner Russell has read through dozens of other emails and letters, as well as many calls to our office, opposing a historic designation. We understand the concerns that imposing a designation on the existing structure could impede the free practice of religion. That is an important point and not something we are not going to ignore or discard lightly. At the same time, and as you certainly know, there are two sides to every issue. Over the past few weeks, Commissioner Russell has seen the hundreds of signatures on various petitions calling for designation, read through dozens of emails and letters our office has received and handled several calls also supportive of that. We understand that preserving the historic character of neighborhood landmarks is important in 21st-century cities. It's been the impression from Commissioner Russell, talking to folks on both sides of this dispute, that the debate so far has been unusually and unnecessarily harsh. Perhaps we are wrong, but given the Commissioner is coming in fresh to his position and to this policy matter, we see significant space for finding a meeting of the minds. We don't believe opposing sides should be entrenched on this one as either "pro -designation" or "anti -designation", but think we can all come together on an agreement: one that absolutely protects the historic landmark while also respecting the religious rights of the diocese that occupies the building. Today, the Commissioner has requested the historic designation be deferred for a month. Commissioner Russell will then work with the Melkite diocese and various preservationists to find that path moving forward that can satisfy all sides. Stay tuned. Thanks again for reaching out, Eleazar David Melendez Director of Strategy and Communications Office of Commissioner Ken Russell Miami City Hall 3500 Pan American Drive Miami, Florida 33133 Office: 305-250-5335 Mobile: 212-729-6672 From: edward rengifo [mailto:edytron2@hotmail.com] Sent: Wednesday, January 27, 2016 6:10 PM 46 To: Russell, Ken (Commissioner).<krussell@miamigov.com> Subject: Saint Jude church Good Afternoon. I understand you are in favor to convert the St Jude on church due to they cannot afford this change. Thank you Edward Rengifo Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk historical monument. Please don't do this to our 47 Melendez, Eleazar Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk From: Melendez, Eleazar Sent: Thursday, January 28, 2016 6:48 PM To: 'TANIA' Subject: RE: NO Historical Designation for St Jude's Church Ms. Pavon: Thank you for taking the time and energy to write us. We hear you loud and clear. Please know that aside from this email, Commissioner Russell has read through dozens of other emails and letters, as well as many calls to our office, opposing a historic designation. We understand the concerns that imposing a designation on the existing structure could impede the free practice of religion. That is an important point and not something we are not going to ignore or discard lightly. At the same time, and as you certainly know, there are two sides to every issue. Over the past few weeks, Commissioner Russell has seen the hundreds of signatures on various petitions calling for designation, read through dozens of emails and letters our office has received and handled several calls also supportive of that. We understand that preserving the historic character of neighborhood landmarks is important in 21st-century cities. It's been the impression from Commissioner Russell, talking to folks on both sides of this dispute, that the debate so far has been unusually and unnecessarily harsh. Perhaps we are wrong, but given the Commissioner is coming in fresh to his position and to this policy matter, we see significant space for finding a meeting of the minds. We don't believe opposing sides should be entrenched on this one as either "pro -designation" or "anti -designation", but think we can all come together on an agreement: one that absolutely protects the historic landmark while also respecting the religious rights of the diocese that occupies the building. Today, the Commissioner has requested the historic designation be deferred for a month. Commissioner Russell will then work with the Melkite diocese and various preservationists to find that path moving forward that can satisfy all sides. Stay tuned. Thanks again for reaching out, Eleazar David Melendez Director of Strategy and Communications Office of Commissioner Ken Russell Miami City Hall 3500 Pan American Drive Miami, Florida 33133 Office: 305-250-5335 Mobile: 212-729-6672 From: TANIA [mailto:tpavil@yahoo.com] Sent: Wednesday, January 27, 2016 10:27 PM To: Russell, Ken (Commissioner) <krussell@miamigov.com>; Regalado, Tomas (Mayor) <TRegalado@miamigov.com>; 48 Gort, Wifredo (Commissioner) <wgort@miamigov.com>; Suarez, Francis (Commissioner) <fsuarez@miamigov.com>; Hardemon, Keon (Commissioner) <khardemon@miamigov.com>; Carollo, Frank (Commissioner -Office) <FCarolloOffice@miamigov.com>; Notifications@stjudemimai.org Cc: tpavil@yahoo.com Subject: NO Historical Designation for St Jude's Church Dear Commissioners and Mayor Regalado, I worship at St Jude Melkite Church. St Jude"s primary significance is religious, respectfully we ask the Commission to respect the Separation of Church and State as our US Constitution guarantees. The Decisions of both The 11th Circuit Court and The Third District Court affirmed our. Primary Significance as Religious. National and Local ordinances exempt Churches. am opposed to Historical designation of St Jude Melkite Church as it would increase operating costs threatening the very existence of St Jude Melkite Shrine Church; interfering with the practice of religion and the constitutional separation of Church and State. I appreciate any support you can provide in this matter, as the continual legal fees and disturbances have been going on for years disturbing the peace of the Parish. Again, I visit St Jude's for religious worship and respectfully ask The City of Miami to respect the sanctity of my religious practice. Thank you for considering my request and for your public service Respectfully, Name: Tania Pavon Address: 819 Cortez St City: Coral Gables Zip code:33134 Telephone : 7864319103 49 Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk Melendez, Eleazar From: Melendez, Eleazar Sent: Thursday, January 28, 2016 6:47 PM To: 'PAVON SONIA' Subject: RE: soniapavon@yahoo.com Ms. Pavon: Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 _- -on 02/25/2016 =City Clerk- - ' Thank you for taking the time and energy to write us. We hear you loud and clear. Please know that aside from this email, Commissioner Russell has read through dozens of other emails and letters, as well as many calls to our office, opposing a historic designation. We understand the concerns that imposing a designation on the existing structure could impede the free practice of religion. That is an important point and not something we are not going to ignore or discard lightly. At the same time, and as you certainly know, there are two sides to every issue. Over the past few weeks, Commissioner Russell has seen the hundreds of signatures on various petitions calling for designation, read through dozens of emails and letters our office has received and handled several calls also supportive of that. We understand that preserving the historic character of neighborhood landmarks is important in 21st-century cities. It's been the impression from Commissioner Russell, talking to folks on both sides of this dispute, that the debate so far has been unusually and unnecessarily harsh. Perhaps we are wrong, but given the Commissioner is coming in fresh to his position and to this policy matter, we see significant space for finding a meeting of the minds. We don't believe opposing sides should be entrenched on this one as either "pro -designation" or "anti -designation", but think we can all come together on an agreement: one that absolutely protects the historic landmark while also respecting the religious rights of the diocese that occupies the building. Today, the Commissioner has requested the historic designation be deferred for a month. Commissioner Russell will then work with the Melkite diocese and various preservationists to find that path moving forward that can satisfy all sides. Stay tuned. Thanks again for reaching out, Eleazar David Melendez Director of Strategy and Communications Office of Commissioner Ken Russell Miami City Hall 3500 Pan American Drive Miami, Florida 33133 Office: 305-250-5335 Mobile: 212-729-6672 From: PAVON SONIA [mailto:soniapavon@yahoo.com] Sent: Wednesday, January 27, 2016 10:35 PM To: Russell, Ken (Commissioner) <krussell@miamigov.com>; Regalado, Tomas (Mayor) <TRegalado@miamigov.com>; 50 Gort, Wifredo (Commissioner) <wgort@miamigov.com>; Suarez, Francis (Commissioner) <fsuarez@miamigov.com>; Hardemon, Keon (Commissioner) <khardemon@miamigov.com>; Carollo, Frank (Commissioner -Office) <FCarolloOffice@miamigov.com>; Notifications@stjudemiami.org Cc: Sonia Pavon <soniapavon@yahoo.com> Subject: Re: soniapavon@yahoo.com NO Historical Designation for St Jude's Church Sonia, On Wednesday, January 27, 2016 10:32 PM, PAVON SONIA <soniapavon@yahoo.com> wrote: Dear Commissioners and Mayor Regalado, I support St Jude Melkite Church. St Jude"s primary significance is religious, respectfully we ask the Commission to respect the Separation of Church and State as our US Constitution guarantees. The Decisions of both The 11th Circuit Court and The Third District Court affirmed our Primary Significance as Religious. National and Local ordinances exempt Churches. I am opposed to Historical designation of St Jude Melkite Church as it would increase operating costs threatening the very existence of St Jude Melkite Shrine Church; interfering with the practice of religion and the constitutional separation of Church and State. I appreciate any support you can provide in this matter, as the continual legal fees and disturbances have been going on for years disturbing the peace of the Parish. Again, I support St Jude's and respectfully ask The City of Miami to respect the sanctity of its religious practice. Thank you for considering my request and for your public service Respectfully, Name: Sonia Pavon Address: 819 Cortez St 51 Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk City: Coral Gables Telephone : 7862183682 Zip code:33134 Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk 52 Melendez, Eleazar Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 -_ -on =02/25/2016, City Clerk= From: Melendez, Eleazar Sent: Thursday, January 28, 2016 6:45 PM To: 'Berta Pavon' Subject: RE: NO Historical Designation for St Jude's Church Ms. Pavon: Thank you for taking the time and energy to write us. We hear you loud and clear. Please know that aside from this email, Commissioner Russell has read through dozens of other emails and letters, as well as many calls to our office, opposing a historic designation. We understand the concerns that imposing a designation on the existing structure could impede the free practice of religion. That is an important point and not something we are not going to ignore or discard lightly. At the same time, and as you certainly know, there are two sides to every issue. Over the past few weeks, Commissioner Russell has seen the hundreds of signatures on various petitions calling for designation, read through dozens of emails and letters our office has received and handled several calls also supportive of that. We understand that preserving the historic character of neighborhood landmarks is important in 21st-century cities. It's been the impression from Commissioner Russell, talking to folks on both sides of this dispute, that the debate so far has been unusually and unnecessarily harsh. Perhaps we are wrong, but given the Commissioner is coming in fresh to his position and to this policy matter, we see significant space for finding a meeting of the minds. We don't believe opposing sides should be entrenched on this one as either "pro -designation" or "anti -designation", but think we can all come together on an agreement: one that absolutely protects the historic landmark while also respecting the religious rights of the diocese that occupies the building. Today, the Commissioner has requested the historic designation be deferred for a month. Commissioner Russell will then work with the Melkite diocese and various preservationists to find that path moving forward that can satisfy all sides. Stay tuned. Thanks again for reaching out, Eleazar David Melendez Director of Strategy and Communications Office of Commissioner Ken Russell Miami City Hall 3500 Pan American Drive Miami, Florida 33133 Office: 305-250-5335 Mobile: 212-729-6672 From: Berta Pavon [mailto:fefepavon@yahoo.com] Sent: Wednesday, January 27, 2016 10:39 PM To: Russell, Ken (Commissioner) <krussell@miamigov.com>; Regalado, Tomas (Mayor) <TRegalado@miamigov.com>; 53 Gort, Wifredo (Commissioner) <wgort@miamigov.com>; Suarez, Francis (Commissioner) <fsuarez@miamigov.com>; Hardemon, Keon (Commissioner) <khardemon@miamigov.com>; Carollo, Frank (Commissioner -Office) <FCarolloOffice@miamigov.com>; Notifications@stjudemiami.org Subject: NO Historical Designation for St Jude's Church Dear Commissioners and Mayor Regalado, support St Jude Melkite Church. St Jude"s primary significance is religious, respectfully we ask the Commission to respect the Separation of Church and State as our US Constitution guarantees. The Decisions of both The 11th Circuit Court and The Third District Court affirmed our Primary Significance as Religious. National and Local ordinances exempt Churches. I am opposed to Historical designation of St Jude Melkite Church as it would increase operating costs threatening the very existence of St Jude Melkite Shrine Church; interfering with the practice of religion and the constitutional separation of Church and State. I appreciate any support you can provide in this matter, as the continual legal fees and disturbances have been going on for years disturbing the peace of the Parish. Again, I support St Jude's and respectfully ask The City of Miami to respect thesanctity of its religious practice. Thank you for considering my request and for your public service Respectfully, Name: Berta Pavon Address: 819 Cortez St City: Coral Gables Zip code:33134 Telephone 7864934343 54 Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk Melendez, Eleazar From: Melendez, Eleazar Sent: Thursday, January 28, 2016 6:39. PM To: 'Constanza Gariboldi' Subject: RE: Ms. Gariboldi: Submitted into the public = record for-item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk Thank you for taking the time and energy to write us. We hear you loud and clear. Please know that aside from this email, Commissioner Russell has read through dozens of other emails and letters, as well as many calls to our office, opposing a historic designation. We understand the concerns that imposing a designation on the existing structure could impede the free practice of religion. That is an important point and not something we are not going to ignore or discard lightly. At the same time, and as you certainly know, there are two sides to every issue. Over the past few weeks, Commissioner Russell has seen the hundreds of signatures on various petitions calling for designation, read through dozens of emails and letters our office has received and handled several calls also supportive of that. We understand that preserving the historic character of neighborhood landmarks is important in 21st-century cities. It's been the impression from Commissioner Russell, talking to folks on both sides of this dispute, that the debate so far has been unusually and unnecessarily harsh. Perhaps we are wrong, but given the Commissioner is coming in fresh to his position and to this policy matter, we see significant space for finding a meeting of the minds. We don't believe opposing sides should be entrenched on this one as either "pro -designation" or "anti -designation", but think we can all come together on an agreement: one that absolutely protects the historic landmark while also respecting the religious rights of the diocese that occupies the building. Today, the Commissioner has requested the historic designation be deferred for a month. Commissioner Russell will then work with the Melkite diocese and various preservationists to find that path moving forward that can satisfy all sides. Stay tuned. Thanks again for reaching out, Eleazar David Melendez Director of Strategy and Communications Office of Commissioner Ken Russell Miami City Hall 3500 Pan American Drive Miami, Florida 33133 Office: 305-250-5335 Mobile: 212-729-6672 From: Constanza Gariboldi [mailto:cotigariboldi@gmail.com] Sent: Thursday, January 28, 2016 7:31 AM To: Russell, Ken (Commissioner) <krussell@miamigov.com>; Regalado, Tomas (Mayor) <TRegalado@miamigov.com>; 55 Gort, Wifredo (Commissioner) <wgort@miamigov.com>; Suarez, Francis (Commissioner) <fsuarez@miamigov.com>; Hardemon, Keon (Commissioner) <khardemon@miamigov.com>; fcarolloofice@miamigov.com Subject: January 28;2016 Dear Commissioners and Mayor Regalado, I worship at St Jude Melkite Church. St Jude's primary significance is religious, respectfully we ask the Commission to respect the Separation of Church and State as our US Constitution guarantees. The Decisions of both The l lth Circuit Court and The Third District Court affirmed our Primary Significance as Religious. National and Local ordinances exempt Churches. I am opposed to Historical designation of St Jude Melkite Church as it would increase operating costs threatening the very existence of St Jude Melkite Shrine Church; interfering with the practice of religion and the constitutional separation of Church and State. I appreciate any support you can provide in this matter, as the continual legal fees and disturbances have been going on for years disturbing the peace of the Parish. Again, I visit St Jude's for religious worship and respectfully ask The City of Miami to respect the sanctity of my religious practice. Thank you for considering my request and for your public service Respectfully, Nombre Maria Constanza Gariboldi Direccion 2451 Brickell Ave. Lic. Maria Constanza Gariboldi Centro de Estudios Biomedicos, Biotecnologicos, Ambientales y Diagnostico - CEBBAD Universidad Maimonides Hidalgo 775 6to piso (1405) Tel: 4905 1197 Fax: 4905 1133 56 Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk Melendez, Eleazar Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 -on 02/25/2016=City=Clerk From: Melendez, Eleazar Sent: Thursday, January 28, 2016 6:37 PM To: 'Maria N.P. Hevia' Subject: RE: No to Historical designation of St.Jude Church Ms. Nevia: Thank you for taking the time and energy to write us. We hear you loud and clear. Please know that aside from this email, Commissioner Russell has read through dozens of other emails and letters, as well as many calls to our office, opposing a historic designation. We understand the concerns that imposing a designation on the existing structure could impede the free practice of religion. That is an important point and not something we are not going to ignore or discard lightly. At the same time, and as you certainly know, there are two sides to every issue. Over the past few weeks, Commissioner Russell has seen the hundreds of signatures on various petitions calling for designation, read through dozens of emails and letters our office has received and handled several calls also supportive of that. We understand that preserving the historic character of neighborhood landmarks is important in 21st-century cities. It's been the impression from Commissioner Russell, talking to folks on both sides of this dispute, that the debate so far has been unusually and unnecessarily harsh. Perhaps we are wrong, but given the Commissioner is coming in fresh to his position and to this policy matter, we see significant space for finding a meeting of the minds. We don't believe opposing sides should be entrenched on this one as either "pro -designation" or "anti -designation", but think we can all come together on an agreement: one that absolutely protects the historic landmark while also respecting the religious rights of the diocese that occupies the building. Today, the Commissioner has requested the historic designation be deferred for a month. Commissioner Russell will then work with the Melkite diocese and various preservationists to find that path moving forward that can satisfy all sides. Stay tuned. Thanks again for reaching out, Eleazar David Melendez Director of Strategy and Communications Office of Commissioner Ken Russell Miami City Hall 3500 Pan American Drive Miami, Florida 33133 Office: 305-250-5335 Mobile: 212-729-6672 From: Maria N.P. Hevia [mailto:marianphevia@bellsouth.net] Sent: Thursday, January 28, 2016 11:41 AM To: Russell, Ken (Commissioner) <krussell@miamigov.com> 57 Cc: Regalado, Tomas (Mayor) <TRegalado@miamigov.com>; Gort, Wifredo (Commissioner) <wgort@miamigov.com>; Suarez, Francis (Commissioner) <fsuarez@miamigov.com>; Khardemont@miamigov.com; Carollo, Frank (Commissioner - Office) <FCarolloOffice@miamigov.com>; ichmar@bellsouth.net Subject: No to Historical designation of St.Jude Church Dear Sirs: I, as all the parishioners attending the Church of St. Jude, say NO TO THE HISTORICAL DESIGNATION OF ST. JUDE CHURCH. As well, we say NO TO THE INTRUSION OF THE CITY IN THE LIFE OF OUR CHURCH and NO to THE HARASSEMENT TO OUR CHURCH. WE WANT RELIGIOUS FREEDOM. I HAD THOUGHT THAT RELIGIOUS PERSECUTION WAS HAPPENING ONLY IN THE MIDDLE EAST, BUT I GUESS THAT APPEARS NOT TO BE THE CASE IN MIAMI. Sincerely, Maria N.P. Hevia 1408 Brickell Bay Dr. Miami, FI.33131 58 Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk Melendez, Eleazar From: Melendez, Eleazar Sent: Thursday, January 28, 2016 6:36 PM To: 'Kaydy Valdes' Subject: RE: St. Jude Catholic Church Ms. Valdes: Submitted into the public record for items) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk r Thank you for taking the time and energy to write us. We hear you loud and clear. Please know that aside from this email, Commissioner Russell has read through dozens of other emails and letters, as well as many calls to our office, opposing a historic designation. We understand the concerns that imposing a designation on the existing structure could impede the free practice of religion. That is an important point and not something we are not going to ignore or discard lightly. At the same time, and as you certainly know, there are two sides to every issue. Over the past few weeks, Commissioner Russell has seen the hundreds of signatures on various petitions calling for designation, read through dozens of emails and letters our office has received and handled several calls also supportive of that. We understand that preserving the historic character of neighborhood landmarks is important in 21st-century cities. It's been the impression from Commissioner Russell, talking to folks on both sides of this dispute, that the debate so far has been unusually and unnecessarily harsh. Perhaps we are wrong, but given the Commissioner is coming in fresh to his position and to this policy matter, we see significant space for finding a meeting of the minds. We don't believe opposing sides should be entrenched on this one as either "pro -designation" or "anti -designation", but think we can all come together on an agreement: one that absolutely protects the historic landmark while also respecting the religious rights of the diocese that occupies the building. Today, the Commissioner has requested the historic designation be deferred for a month. Commissioner Russell will then work with the Melkite diocese and various preservationists to find that path moving forward that can satisfy all sides. Stay tuned. Thanks again for reaching out, Eleazar David Melendez Director of Strategy and Communications Office of Commissioner Ken Russell Miami City Hall 3500 Pan American Drive Miami, Florida 33133 Office: 305-250-5335 Mobile: 212-729-6672 From: Kaydy Valdes [mailto:kaydyvaldes@gmail.com] Sent: Thursday, January 28, 2016 1:18 PM To: Russell, Ken (Commissioner) <krussell@miamigov.com>; Regalado, Tomas (Mayor) <TRegalado@miamigov.com>; 59 Gort, Wifredo (Commissioner) <wgort@miamigov.com>; Suarez, Francis (Commissioner) <fsuarez@miamigov.com>; Carollo, Frank (Commissioner -Office) <FCarolloOffice@miamigov.com>; pablocastrogc@aol.com Subject: St. Jude Catholic Church Good afternoon to all! My family and I have been faithful devotees of St. Jude since I was an infant and had health issues. St. Jude Church is a place of hope for us as well as so many others. It is a blessing to our community. Please say NO to the historical designation of this sacred temple. It is not amuseum. It is a place of worship and of holiness and should be treated as such. Thank you all for your time. May God bless you and guide you to decide correctly. Sincerely, Kaydy Valdes 786-389-8745 60 Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk Melendez, Eleazar From: Sent: To: Subject: Mr. Pujol: Melendez, Eleazar Thursday, January 28, 2016 6:18 PM 'agp1654@aol.com' RE: St Jude Thank you for taking the time and energy to write us. We hear you loud and email, Commissioner Russell has seen the hundreds of signatures on various of emails and letters our office has received and handled several calls calling preserving the historic character of neighborhood landmarks is important in might know, Commissioner Russell is dedicated to responsible development input from neighbors. At the same time, and as you certainly know, there are two sides to every iss Commissioner Russell has read through dozens of emails and letters, as well historic designation. The main argument in opposition, that imposing certain impede the free practice of religion, is not something we are going to ignore Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk clear. Please know that aside from this petitions for this issue, read through dozens for designation. We understand that 21st-century cities. Additionally, as you throughout Miami that takes into account ue. This one is no exception, and as many calls to our office, opposing a conditions on the existing structure could or discard lightly. It's been the impression from Commissioner Russell, talking to folks on both sides of this dispute, that the debate so far has been unusually and unnecessarily harsh. Perhaps we are wrong, but given the Commissioner is coming in fresh to his position and to this policy matter, we see significant space for finding a meeting of the minds. We don't believe opposing sides should be entrenched on this one as either "pro -designation" or "anti -designation", but think we can all come together on an agreement: one that absolutely protects the historic landmark while also respecting the religious rights of the diocese that occupies the building. Today, the commissioner will be requesting the historic designation be deferred for a month. Commissioner Russell will then work with the Melkite diocese and various preservationists to find that path moving forward that can satisfy all sides. Stay tuned. Thanks again for reaching out, Eleazar David Melendez Director of Strategy and Communications Office of Commissioner Ken Russell Miami City Hall 3500 Pan American Drive Miami, Florida 33133 Office: 305-250-5335 Mobile: 212-729-6672 From: agp1654@aol:com [mailto:agp1654@aol.com] Sent: Thursday, January 28, 2016 1:23 PM 61 To: Russell, Ken (Commissioner) <krussell@miamigov.com> Subject: St Jude Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk I am not in favor of the city turning our church into a historical building just for you to get kick backs on any repair. Alfredo G Pujol 62 Melendez, Eleazar From: Melendez, Eleazar Sent: Thursday, January 28, 2016 6:13 PM To: 'anniesr26@aol.com' Subject: RE: SAVE ST. JUDE Ms. San Roman: Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 =on 02/25/2016, City Clerk Thank you for taking the time and energy to write us. We hear you loud and clear. Please know that aside from this email, Commissioner Russell has seen the hundreds of signatures on various petitions for this issue, read through dozens of emails and letters our office has received and handled several calls calling for designation. We understand that preserving the historic character of neighborhood landmarks is important in 21st-century cities. Additionally, as you might know, Commissioner Russell is dedicated to responsible development throughout Miami that takes into account input from neighbors. At the same time, and as you certainly know, there are two sides to every issue. This one is no exception, and Commissioner Russell has read through dozens of emails and letters, as well as many calls to our office, opposing a historic designation. The main argument in opposition, that imposing certain conditions on the existing structure could impede the free practice of religion, is not something we are going to ignore or discard lightly. It's been the impression from Commissioner Russell, talking to folks on both sides of this dispute, that the debate so far has been unusually and unnecessarily harsh. Perhaps we are wrong, but given the Commissioner is coming in fresh to his position and to this policy matter, we see significant space for finding a meeting of the minds. We don't believe opposing sides should be entrenched on this one as either "pro -designation" or "anti -designation", but think we can all come together on an agreement: one that absolutely protects the historic landmark while also respecting the religious rights of the diocese that occupies the building. Today, the commissioner will be requesting the historic designation be deferred for a month. Commissioner Russell will then work with the Melkite diocese and various preservationists to find that path moving forward that can satisfy all sides. Stay tuned. Thanks again for reaching out, • Eleazar David Melendez Director of Strategy and Communications Office of Commissioner Ken Russell Miami City Hall 3500 Pan American Drive Miami, Florida 33133 Office: 305-250-5335 Mobile: 212-729-6672 From: anniesr26@aol.com [mailto:anniesr26@aol.com] Sent: Wednesday, December02, 2015 12:23 PM To: Regalado, Tomas (Mayor) <TRegalado@miamigov.com>; Gort, Wifredo (Commissioner) <wgort@miamigov.com>; 63 Russell, Ken (Commissioner) <krussell@miamigov.com>; Carollo, Frank (Commissioner -Office) <FCarolloOffice@miamigov.com>; Suarez, Francis (Commissioner) <fsuarez@miamigov.com>; Hardemon, Keon (Commissioner) <khardemon@miamigov.com> Subject: SAVE ST. JUDE Dear Commissioners hope you take the time to read the attached letter. With Best Regards, Ana San Roman Miami needs to maintain its history. Look at other countries that preserve their history, we should not destroy our history. 64 Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk Melendez, Eleazar From: Melendez, Eleazar Sent: Thursday, January 28, 2016 6:12 PM To: 'Gemelka@aol.com' Subject: RE: Office of Commissioner Ken Russell Dr. Chan: Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk Thank you for taking the time and energy to write us. We hear you loud and clear. Please know that aside from this email, Commissioner Russell has seen the hundreds of signatures on various petitions for this issue, read through dozens of emails and letters our office has received and handled several calls calling for designation. We understand that preserving the historic character of neighborhood landmarks is important in 21st-century cities. Additionally, as you might know, Commissioner Russell is dedicated to responsible development throughout Miami that takes into account input from neighbors. At the same time, and as you certainly know, there are two sides to every issue. This one is no exception, and Commissioner Russell has read through dozens of emails and letters, as well as many calls to our office, opposing a historic designation. The main argument in opposition, that imposing certain conditions on the existing structure could impede the free practice of religion, is not something we are going to ignore or discard lightly. It's been the impression from Commissioner Russell, talking to folks on both sides of this dispute, that the debate so far has been unusually and unnecessarily harsh. Perhaps we are wrong, but given the Commissioner is coming in fresh to his position and to this policy matter, we see significant space for finding a meeting of the minds. We don't believe opposing sides should be entrenched on this one as either "pro -designation" or "anti -designation", but think we can all come together on an agreement: one that absolutely protects the historic landmark while also respecting the religious rights of the diocese that occupies the building. Today, the commissioner will be requesting the historic designation be deferred for a month. Commissioner Russell will then work with the Melkite diocese and various preservationists to find that path moving forward that can satisfy all sides. Stay tuned. Thanks again for reaching out, Eleazar David Melendez Director of Strategy and Communications Office of Commissioner Ken Russell Miami City Hall • 3500 Pan American Drive Miami, Florida 33133 Office: 305-250-5335 Mobile: 212-729-6672 From: Gemelka@aol.com [mailto:Gemelka@aol.com] Sent: Wednesday, December 02, 2015 6:35 PM To: Russell, Ken (Commissioner) <krussell@miamigov.com> 65 Cc: Regalado, Tomas (Mayor) <TRegalado@miamigov.com> Subject: Office of Commissioner Ken Russell December 2, 2015 Dear Commissioner Ken Russell: Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk The responsibility of which buildings are preserve in the ever changing City of Miami rest upon your shoulders among other commissioners, so we approach you. 1, Georgina Chan Perdomo MD, am requesting your support for the historic designation of Saint Jude Church on Brickell Avenue. "As a graduate of the Academy of the Assumption at Brickell Avenue, Miami Florida" I am urging you to endorse the historical designation of Saint Jude Church. It unequivocally meets the necessary criteria for the chronological title. I ask you to approve and vote FOR historical designation of one of the last treasures from its era in the City of Miami. It would be senseless to lose this beautiful structure, the last of the historic Brickell Avenue treasures and the only example of Romanesque architecture in the City of Miami. Your support and vote to historically designate Saint Jude will ensure that a significant piece of our community's history and one of its architectural gems will remain for decades and generations of residents of Miami to come. Sincerely Georgina Chan Perdomo MD Silver Star Family Medicine 1202 E. Silver Star Rd. Ocoee, FL 34761 Phone 407:656-7866 Fax 407-656-3032 cc: Mayor Tomas Regalado 66 Melendez, Eleazar From: Melendez, Eleazar Sent: Thursday, January 28, 2016 6:12 PM To: 'Debra Erickson' Subject: RE: Saint Jude Church Ms. Erickson: Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016; City Clefk= Thank you for taking the time and energy to write us. We hear you loud and clear. Please know that aside from this email, Commissioner Russell has seen the hundreds of signatures on various petitions for this issue, read through dozens of emails and letters our office has received and handled several calls calling for designation. We understand that preserving the historic character of neighborhood landmarks is important in 21st-century cities. Additionally, as you might know, Commissioner Russell is dedicated to responsible development throughout Miami that takes into account input from neighbors. At the same time, and as you certainly know, there are two sides to every issue. This one is no exception, and Commissioner Russell has read through dozens of emails and letters, as well as many calls to our office, opposing a historic designation. The main argument in opposition, that imposing certain conditions on the existing structure could impede the free practice of religion, is not something we are going to ignore or discard lightly. It's been the impression from -Commissioner Russell, talking to folks on both sides of this dispute, that the debate so far has been unusually and unnecessarily harsh. Perhaps we are wrong, but given the Commissioner is coming in fresh to his position and to this policy matter, we see significant space for finding a meeting of the minds. We don't believe opposing sides should be entrenched on this one as either "pro -designation" or "anti -designation", but think we can all come together on an agreement: one that absolutely protects the historic landmark while also respecting the religious rights of the diocese that occupies the building. Today, the commissioner will be requesting the historic designation be deferred for a month. Commissioner Russell will then work with the Melkite diocese and various preservationists to find that path moving forward that can satisfy all sides. Stay tuned. Thanks again for reaching out, Eleazar David Melendez Director of Strategy and Communications Office of Commissioner Ken Russell Miami City Hall 3500 Pan American Drive Miami, Florida 33133 Office: 305-250-5335 Mobile: 212-729-6672 From: Debra Erickson [mailto:dmerickson2@frontier.com] Sent: Thursday, December 03, 2015 12:50 PM 67 To: Russell, Ken (Commissioner) <krusseli@miamigov.com> Subject: Saint Jude Church Dear Commissioner Ken Russell, Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk I, Debra Farrington -Erickson , am requesting your support for the historic designation of Saint Jude Church on Brickell Avenue. I am a former student of Assumption Academy and I am urging you to approve the historical designation of Saint Jude Church. It unequivocally meets the necessary criteria for historical designation. I implore you to approve and vote FOR historical designation of one of the last treasures from its era in the City of Miami. It would be senseless to lose this beautiful structure, the last of the historic Brickell Avenue treasures and the only example of Romanesque architecture in the City of Miami. Your support and vote to historically designate Saint Jude will ensure that a significant piece of our community's history and one of its architectural gems will remain for decades and generations of Miamians to come. Sincerely, Debra M. Erickson cc: Mayor Tomas Regalado 68 Melendez, Eleazar From: Melendez, Eleazar Sent: Thursday, January 28, 2016 6:07 PM To: 'Pablo S. Garcia' Subject: RE: St. Jude Church on Brickell Avenue Mr. Garcia: Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016; City Clerk Thank you for taking the time and energy to write us. We hear you loud and clear. Please know that aside from this email, Commissioner Russell has seen the hundreds of signatures on various petitions for this issue, read through dozens of emails and letters our office has received and handled several calls calling for designation. We understand that preserving the historic character of neighborhood landmarks is important in 21st-century cities. Additionally, as you might know, Commissioner Russell is dedicated to responsible development throughout Miami that takes into account input from neighbors. At the same time, and as you certainly know, there are two sides to every issue. This one is no exception, and Commissioner Russell has read through dozens of emails and letters, as well as many calls to our office, opposing a historic designation. The main argument in opposition, that imposing certain conditions on the existing structure could impede the free practice of religion, is not something we are going to ignore or discard lightly. It's been the impression from Commissioner Russell, talking to folks on both sides of this dispute, that the debate so far has been unusually and unnecessarily harsh. Perhaps we are wrong, but given the Commissioner is coming in fresh to his position and to this policy matter, we see significant space for finding a meeting of the minds. We don't believe opposing sides should be entrenched on this one as either "pro -designation" or "anti -designation", but think we can all come together on an agreement: one that absolutely protects the historic landmark while also respecting the religious rights of the diocese that occupies the building. Today, the commissioner will be requesting the historic designation be deferred for a month. Commissioner Russell will then work with the Melkite diocese and various preservationists to find that path moving forward that can satisfy all sides. Stay tuned. Thanks again for reaching out, Eleazar David Melendez Director of Strategy and Communications Office of Commissioner Ken Russell Miami City Hall 3500 Pan American Drive Miami, Florida 33133 Office: 305-250-5335 Mobile: 212-729-6672 From: Pablo S. Garcia [mailto:pablito1950@aol.com] Sent: Wednesday, December 30, 2015 7:03 AM To: Russell, Ken (Commissioner) <krussell@miamigov.com> 69 Cc: Suarez, Francis (Commissioner) <fsuarez@miamigov.com>; P,ujol, Ana <apujol@miamigov.com>; Fernandez, Alicia <alfernandez@miamigov.com> Subject: St. Jude Church on Brickell Avenue Dear Commissioner Russell: I hereby respectfully request and pray that you vote to preserve and declare Saint Jude Church on Brickell Avenue and 15th Street, a historical site. A familiar landmark standing in the heart of Miami for the past 70 years, Saint. Jude Church represents a beacon of spiritual comfort for many citizens in Miami. As the ONLY example of Romanesque architecture in the entire city, Saint Jude was built in architectural congruency to the middle -age nunneries in France, where the Religious Order of the Assumption was founded. As a community, we must remind ourselves that if we cast aside the remnants of our recent past, we are left with nothing. All we can do is watch helplessly as our architectural treasures are destroyed by condominium developers and our history ultimately tumbles into obscurity! I am a constituent of Commissioner Suarez hence the reason for cc'g him and his staff. I am a retired builder, was in the construction industry for 40 years, I am not against growth by any means, but not at the cost of the destruction of a Miami Historic Landmark such as St. Jude's Church. Miami is a very young city relatively speaking compared to NY and Chicago. In my opinion Miami. is a smaller and younger version of NY City. I say this because of all the diverse cultures that inhabit Miami and South Florida as a whole. To me the Brickell Area is Little Manhattan and is part of Little Havana and Calle Ocho. Many Catholic families specially Cuban American families who were the predominately inhabitants of the area in the 60's and 70's worshiped at St. Judes. My cousin was married there and her three children were baptized there. Your present constituents may not reflect the history which this architectural marvel is, please consider history as you vote. Please do not let the developers who want to destroy this masterpiece influence with all the good the condominium is going to do for the area. The Unity on the Bay Church was sold to developers to be demolished and the congregation made an astronomical profit.The building which housed the church was not the architectural sentimental masterpiece St. Jude's is. Thank you for taking the time to read my email I really appreciate it. Respectfully yours, Pablo S. Garcia 4330 SW 4th Street Miami, Florida 33134 305-498-3552 70 Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk Melendez, Eleazar From: Melendez, Eleazar Sent: Thursday, January 28, 2016 6:06 PM To: 'robert fink' Subject: RE: St Judes destroyed !!! . Are you Kidding me !!!! Mr. Fink: Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk Thank you for taking the time and energy to write us. We hear you loud and clear. Please know that aside from this email, Commissioner Russell has seen the hundreds of signatures on various petitions for this issue, read through dozens of emails and letters our office has received and handled several calls calling for designation. We understand that preserving the historic character of neighborhood landmarks is important in 21st-century cities. Additionally, as you might know, Commissioner Russell is dedicated to responsible development throughout Miami that takes into account input from neighbors. At the same time, and as you certainly know, there are two sides to every issue. This one is no exception, and Commissioner Russell has read through dozens of emails and letters, as well as many calls to our office, opposing a historic designation. The main argument in opposition, that imposing certain conditions on the existing structure could impede the free practice of religion, is not something we are going to ignore or discard lightly. It's been the impression from Commissioner Russell, talking to folks on both sides of this dispute, that the debate so far has been unusually and unnecessarily harsh. Perhaps we are wrong, but given the Commissioner is coming in fresh to his position and to this policy matter, we see significant space for finding a meeting of the minds. We don't believe opposing sides should be entrenched on this one as either "pro -designation" or "anti -designation", but think we can all come together on an agreement: one that absolutely protects the historic landmark while also respecting the religious rights of the diocese that occupies the building. Today, the commissioner will be requesting the historic designation be deferred for a month. Commissioner Russell will then work with the Melkite diocese and various preservationists to find that path moving forward that can satisfy all sides. Stay tuned. Thanks again for reaching out, Eleazar David Melendez Director of Strategy and Communications Office of Commissioner Ken Russell Miami City Hall 3500 Pan American Drive Miami, Florida 33133 Office: 305-250-5335 Mobile: 212-729-6672 From: robert fink [mailto:decoypoet@yahoo.com] Sent: Thursday, January 21, 2016 11:41 AM To: Russell, Ken (Commissioner) <krussell@miamigov.com> 71 Cc: Regalado, Tomas (Mayor) <TRegalado@miamigov.com> Subject: St Judes destroyed !!! . Are you Kidding me !!!! Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk Dear Sir How can you allow one of the last and most beautiful historic building be destroyed? Especially, since it is on Brickell.. Miami signature street in a tourist city. This is the street where Big Red Tourist buses show off our city. We want to toursits to go back to their countries and say Miami is beautiful. It makes good business sense. Would New York City Break down St. Patricks cathedral? 99% of all historic structures have been destroyed in Miami. It is your responsibility to save this one Hope you do the right thing Robert Funk Miami lover 72 Melendez. Eleazar Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on.02/25/2016, City Clerk From: Melendez, Eleazar Sent: Thursday, January 28, 2016 6:05 PM To: 'Alberto Bengolea' Subject: RE: ST JUDE CHURCH MUST BE DESIGNATED A HISTORICAL BUILDING Mr Bengolea: Thank you for taking the time and energy to write us. We hear you loud and clear. Please know that aside from this email, Commissioner Russell has seen the hundreds of signatures on various petitions for this issue, read through dozens of emails and letters our office has received and handled several calls calling for designation. We understand that preserving the historic character of neighborhood landmarks is important in 21st-century cities. Additionally, as you might know, Commissioner Russell is dedicated to responsible development throughout Miami that takes into account input from neighbors. At the same time, and as you certainly know, there are two sides to every issue. This one is no exception, and Commissioner Russell has read through dozens of emails and letters, as well as many calls to our office, opposing a historic designation. The main argument in opposition, that imposing certain conditions on the existing structure could impede the free practice of religion, is not something we are going to ignore or discard lightly. It's been the impression from Commissioner Russell, talking to folks on both sides of this dispute, that the debate so far has been unusually and unnecessarily harsh. Perhaps we are wrong, but given the Commissioner is coming in fresh to his position and to this policy matter, we see significant space for finding a meeting of the minds. We don't believe opposing sides should be entrenched on this one as either "pro -designation" or "anti -designation", but think we can all come together on an agreement: one that absolutely protects the historic landmark while also respecting the religious rights of the diocese that occupies the building. Today, the commissioner will be requesting the historic designation be deferred for a month. Commissioner Russell will then work with the Melkite diocese and various preservationists to find that path moving forward that can satisfy all sides. Stay tuned. Thanks again for reaching out, Eleazar David Melendez Director of Strategy and Communications Office of Commissioner Ken Russell Miami City Hall 3500 Pan American Drive Miami, Florida 33133 Office: 305-250-5335 Mobile: 212-729-6672 From: Alberto Bengolea [mailto:bengowave@aol.com] Sent: Thursday, January 21, 2016 7:26 PM To: Russell, Ken (Commissioner) <krussell@miamigov.com>; Regalado, Tomas (Mayor) <TRegalado@miamigov.com>; 73 Gort, Wifredo (Commissioner) <wgort@miamigov.com>; Suarez, Francis (Commissioner) <fsuarez@miamigov.com>; Hardemon, Keon (Commissioner) <khardemon@miamigov.com>; Carollo, Frank (Commissioner -Office) <FCarolloOffice@miamigov.com> Subject: ST JUDE CHURCH MUST BE DESIGNATED A HISTORICAL BUILDING PLEASE VOTE YES to confirm what was decided in the first place: HISTORICAL BUILDING Alberto Bengolea 1541 Brickell Ave 1201 Miami FL 33129 305 753 8188 74 Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk Melendez, Eleazar From: Melendez, Eleazar Sent: Thursday, January 28, 2016 6:03 PM To: 'Emil Furiati' Subject: RE: ST. JUDE'S CHURCH Mr. Furiati: Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk Thank you for taking the time and energy to write us. We hear you loud and clear. Please know that aside from this email, Commissioner Russell has seen the hundreds of signatures on various petitions for this issue, read through dozens of emails and letters our office has received and handled several calls calling for designation. We understand that preserving the historic character of neighborhood landmarks is important in 21st-century cities. Additionally, as you might know, Commissioner Russell is dedicated to responsible development throughout Miami that takes into account input from neighbors. At the same time, and as you certainly know, there are two sides to every issue. This one is no exception, and Commissioner Russell has read through dozens of emails and letters, as well as many calls to our office, opposing a historic designation. The main argument in opposition, that imposing certain conditions on the existing structure could impede the free practice of religion, is not something we are going to ignore or discard lightly. It's been the impression from Commissioner Russell, talking to folks on both sides of this dispute, that the debate so far has been unusually and unnecessarily harsh. Perhaps we are wrong, but given the Commissioner is coming in fresh to his position and to this policy matter, we see significant space for finding a meeting of the minds. We don't believe opposing sides should be entrenched on this one as either "pro -designation" or "anti -designation", but think we can all come together on an agreement: one that absolutely protects the historic landmark while also respecting the religious rights of the diocese that occupies the building. Today, the commissioner will be requesting the historic designation be deferred for a month. Commissioner Russell will then work with the Melkite diocese and various preservationists to find that path moving forward that can satisfy all sides. Stay tuned. Thanks again for reaching out, Eleazar David Melendez Director of Strategy and Communications Office of Commissioner Ken Russell Miami City Hall 3500 Pan American Drive Miami, Florida 33133 Office: 305-250-5335 Mobile: 212-729-6672 From: Emil Furiati [mailto:inmiami332@gmail.com] Sent: Monday, January 25, 2016 3:44 PM 75 To: Russell, Ken (Commissioner) <krussell@miamigov.com> Subject: ST. JUDE'S CHURCH Commissioner Russell: Submitted into the public record for iterri(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk Regarding the upcoming meeting to save St. Jude's Church, we urge you to support the movement to maintain its designation as a city historical monument. Please be advised that I, along with many of my neighbors, are in favor of keeping this designation in place. Aside from being a historical edifice, St. Jude's continues to serve the needs of our community's spiritual and social cohesiveness. Removing this designation, or the structure itself, would be tantamount to removing from the community their place of worship and the centerpiece of Brickell Avenue's historical essence. We urge you to support St. Jude's historical designation. Best Regards. Maryann & Emil Furiati 1581 Brickell Ave. Miami FL 33129 76 Melendez, Eleazar From: Melendez, Eleazar Sent: Thursday, January 28, 2016 5:47 PM To: 'Elizabeth Palacio' Subject: RE: St Jude's Church Ms. Palacio: Submitted into the public record for item(s)_PZ.7__ ._ on 02/25/2016, City Clerk Thank you for taking the time and energy to write us. We hear you loud and clear. Please know that aside from this email, Commissioner Russell has seen the hundreds of signatures on various petitions for this issue, read through dozens of emails and letters our office has received and handled several calls calling for designation. We understand that preserving the historic character of neighborhood landmarks is important in 21st-century cities. Additionally, as you might know, Commissioner Russell is dedicated to responsible development throughout Miami that takes into account input from neighbors. At the same time, and as you certainly know, there are two sides to every issue. This one is no exception, and Commissioner Russell has read through dozens of emails and letters, as well as many calls to our office, opposing a historic designation. The main argument in opposition, that imposing certain conditions on the existing structure could impede the free practice of religion, is not something we are going to ignore or discard lightly. It's been the impression from Commissioner Russell, talking to folks on both sides of this dispute, that the debate so far has been unusually and unnecessarily harsh. Perhaps we are wrong, but given the Commissioner is coming in fresh to his position and to this policy matter, we see significant space for finding a meeting of the minds. We don't believe opposing sides should be entrenched on this one as either "pro -designation" or "anti -designation", but think we can all come together on an agreement: one that absolutely protects the historic landmark while also respecting the religious rights of the diocese that occupies the building. Today, the commissioner will be requesting the historic designation be deferred for a month. Commissioner Russell will then work with the Melkite diocese and various preservationists to find that path moving forward that can satisfy all sides. Stay tuned. Thanks again for reaching out, Eleazar David Melendez Director of Strategy and Communications Office of Commissioner Ken Russell Miami City Hall 3500 Pan American Drive Miami, Florida 33133 Office: 305-250-5335 Mobile: 212-729-6672 Original Message From: Elizabeth Palacio [mailto:epalacio2@gmail.com] Sent: Monday, January 25, 2016 4:36 PM To: Russell, Ken (Commissioner) <krussell@miamigov.com>; Regalado, Tomas (Mayor) < TRegalado@miamigov.com>; Gort, Wifredo (Commissioner) <wgort@miamigov.com>; Suarez, Francis (Commissioner) <fsuarez@miamigov.com>; 77 Hardemon, Keon (Commissioner) <khardemon@miamigov.com>; Carollo, Frank (Commissioner -Office) <FCarolloOffice@miamigov.com> Subject: St Jude's Church t. Dear Sirs: Please don't let them sway you from designating it a "National Treasure."It has been standing there for more than 40 years!! Elizabeth Palacio. Sent from my iPad 78 Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk Melendez, Eleazar From: Melendez, Eleazar Sent: Thursday, January 28, 2016 5:46 PM To: 'Laura Calzolari' Subject: RE: Vote for historic preservation status of St. Jude's Church Ms. Calzolari: Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk Thank you for taking the time and energy to write us. We hear you loud and clear. Please know that aside from this email, Commissioner Russell has seen the hundreds of signatures on various petitions for this issue, read through dozens of emails and letters our office has received and handled several calls calling for designation. We understand that preserving the historic character of neighborhood landmarks is important in 21st-century cities. Additionally, as you might know; Commissioner Russell is dedicated to responsible development throughout Miami that takes into account input from neighbors. At the same time, and as you certainly know, there are two sides to every issue. This one is no exception, and Commissioner Russell has read through dozens of emails and letters, as well as many calls to our office, opposing a historic designation. The main argument in opposition, that imposing certain conditions on the existing structure could impede the free practice of religion, is not something we are going to ignore or discard lightly. It's been the impression from Commissioner Russell, talking to folks on both sides of this dispute, that the debate so far has been unusually and unnecessarily harsh. Perhaps we are wrong, but given the Commissioner is coming in fresh to his position and to this policy matter, we see significant space for finding a meeting of the minds. We don't believe opposing sides should be entrenched on this one as either "pro -designation" or "anti -designation", but think we can all come together on an agreement: one that absolutely protects the historic landmark while also respecting the religious rights of the diocese that occupies the building. Today, the commissioner will be requesting the historic designation be deferred for a month. Commissioner Russell will then work with the Melkite diocese and various preservationists to find that path moving forward that can satisfy all sides. Stay tuned. Thanks again for reaching out, Eleazar David Melendez Director of Strategy and Communications Office of Commissioner Ken Russell Miami City Hall 3500 Pan American Drive Miami, Florida 33133 Office: 305-250-5335 Mobile: 212-729-6672 From: Laura Calzolari[mailto:lcalzolari916@gmail.com] ,Sent: Monday, January 25, 2016 6:31 PM 79 To: Russell, Ken (Commissioner) <krussell@miamigov.com>; Regalado, Tomas (Mayor) <TRegalado@miamigov.com> Subject: Vote for historic preservation status of St. Jude's Church The church is the only example ONLY example of Romanesque architecture in the entire City of Miami and is one of the few "older buildings" on Brickell Avenue that are accessible to the public. As you know, the church also sits in front of the Palace, one of three iconic condominiums built by Architectonica. Without historic preservation status, the church may try at some future date to sell the air rights or land for new construction that would detract from the Palace property and in fact the entire East -facing stretch of Brickell Avenue between the Rickenbacker plaza and 15th road, one of the last areas of resort -style development in the city of Miami. Thank you for your consideration. Laura Calzolari Palace Condominium resident owner 305-401-5987 80 Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk Melendez, Eleazar From: Sent: To: Subject: Ms. Bethart: Submitted into the public - record for_item(s) PZ.7- Melendez, Eleazar on 02/25/2016, City Clerk Thursday, January.28, 2016 5:43 PM 'Marta Bethart' RE: Letter FOR historical designation of Saint Jude Thank you for taking the time and energy to write us. We hear you loud and clear. Please know that aside from this email, Commissioner Russell has seen the hundreds of signatures on various petitions for this issue, read through dozens of emails and letters our office has received and handled several calls calling for designation. We understand that preserving the historic character of neighborhood landmarks is important in 21st-century cities. Additionally, as you might know, Commissioner Russell is dedicated to responsible development throughout Miami that takes into account input from neighbors. At the same time, and as you certainly know, there are two sides to every issue. This one is no exception, and Commissioner Russell has read through dozens of emails and letters, as well as many calls to our office, opposing a historic designation. The main argument in opposition, that imposing certain conditions on the existing structure could impede the free practice of religion, is not something we are going to ignore or discard lightly. It's been the impression from Commissioner Russell, talking to folks on both sides of this dispute, that the debate so far has been unusually and unnecessarily harsh. Perhaps we are wrong, but given the Commissioner is coming in fresh to his position and to this policy matter, we see significant space for finding a meeting of the minds. We don't believe opposing sides should be entrenched on this one as either "pro -designation" or "anti -designation", but think we can all come together on an agreement: one that absolutely protects the historic landmark while also respecting the religious rights of the diocese that occupies the building. Today, the commissioner will be requesting the historic designation be deferred for a month. Commissioner Russell will then work with the Melkite diocese and various preservationists to find that path moving forward that can satisfy all sides. Stay tuned. Thanks again for reaching out, Eleazar David Melendez Director of Strategy and Communications Office of Commissioner Ken Russell Miami City Hall 3500 Pan American Drive Miami, Florida 33133 Office: 305-250-5335 Mobile: 212-729-6672 From: Marta Bethart [mailto:mbethart@yahoo.com] Sent: Wednesday, January 27, 2016 11:05 AM To: Russell, Ken (Commissioner) <krussell@miamigov.com> 81 Cc: Regalado, Tomas (Mayor) <TRegalado@miamigov.com> Subject: Letter FOR historical designation of Saint Jude Marta Bethart President Bethart Bilingual Research Inc. Mobile 305-588-9007 Office: 305-255-9078 (New number) Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk 82 Melendez, Eleazar From: Melendez, Eleazar Sent: Thursday, January 28, 2016 5:42 PM To: 'Suzanne Delehanty' Subject: RE: Saint Jude's Church /Stand for Quality of Life Ms. Delehanty: Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016,; City Clerk Thank you for taking the time and energy to write us. We hear you loud and clear. Please know that aside from this email, Commissioner Russell has seen the hundreds of signatures on various petitions for this issue, read through dozens of emails and letters our office has received and handled several calls calling for designation. We understand that preserving the historic character of neighborhood landmarks is important in 21st-century cities. Additionally, as you might know, Commissioner Russell is dedicated to responsible development throughout Miami that takes into account input from neighbors. At the same time, and as you certainly know, there are two sides to every issue. This one is no exception, and. Commissioner Russell has read through dozens of emails and letters, as well as many calls to our office, opposing a historic designation. The main argument in opposition, that imposing certain conditions on the existing structure could impede the free practice of religion, is not something we are going to ignore or discard lightly. Its been the impression from Commissioner Russell, talking to folks on both sides of this dispute, that the debate so far has been unusually and unnecessarily harsh. Perhaps we are wrong, but given the Commissioner is coming in fresh to his position and to this policy matter, we see significant space for finding a meeting of the minds. We don't believe opposing sides should be entrenched on this one as either "pro - designation" or "anti -designation", but think we can all come together on an agreement: one that absolutely protects the historic landmark while also respecting the religious rights of the diocese that occupies the building. Today, the commissioner will be requesting the historic designation be deferred for a month. Commissioner Russell will then work with the Melkite diocese and various preservationists to find that path moving forward that can satisfy all sides. Stay tuned. Thanks again for reaching out, Eleazar David Melendez Director of Strategy and Communications Office of Commissioner Ken Russell Miami City Hall 3500 Pan American Drive Miami, Florida 33133 Office: 305-250-5335 Mobile: 212-729-6672 83 From: Suzanne Delehanty [mailto:sd@suzannedelehanty.com] Sent: Wednesday, January 27, 2016 11:49 AM To: Russell, Ken (Commissioner) <krusseil@miamigov.com> Subject: Saint Jude's Church /Stand for Quality of Life Dear Commissioner Russell: Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk As one of your District 2 constituents, I am writing to thank you for making smart growth and the preservation of open spaces hallmarks of your campaign. For this reason, I am writing to express my ardent hope that you will champion historic designation for Saint Jude's Church AND its entire campus when the issue comes before the City of Miami Commission on January 28. The property meets all the criteria for historic preservation. Located at the corner Brickell Avenue and 15th Road, Saint Jude's campus maintains a human scale, contributing to quality of life in the increasing overcrowded and traffic congested neighborhood: Brickell is a desirable neighborhood for business and residents because it has a number of distinctive historic and architecturally significant buildings and green spaces. These unique features not only remind us residents and our children of our history, but make Miami an attractive tourist destination, which is vital to our economic prosperity . Thank you for standing for historic preservation and the quality of life in our community. Sincerely, Suzanne Delehanty SUZANNE 7ELEHANTYU.4 1541 Brickell Avenue A602 Miami, Florida 33129 305.582.6344 suzannedelehanty.cam 84 Melendez, Eleazar From: Melendez, Eleazar Sent: Thursday, January 28, 2016 5:40 PM To: 'Arva Parks' Subject: RE: St, Jude Ms. Parks: Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk Thank you for taking the time and energy to write us. We hear you loud and clear. Please know that aside from this email, Commissioner Russell has seen the hundreds of signatures on various petitions for this issue, read through dozens of emails and letters and handled several calls calling for designation. We understand that preserving the historic character of neighborhood landmarks is important in 21st-century cities. Additionally, as you might know, Commissioner Russell is dedicated to responsible development throughout Miami that takes into account input from. neighbors. At the same time, and as you certainly know, there are two sides to every issue. This one is no exception, and Commissioner Russell has read through dozens of emails and letters, as well as many calls to our office, opposing a historic designation. The main argument in opposition, that imposing certain conditions on the existing structure could impede the free practice of religion, is not something we are going to ignore or discard lightly. It's been the impression from Commissioner Russell, talking to folks on both sides of this dispute, that the debate so far has been unusually and unnecessarily harsh. Perhaps we are wrong, but given the Commissioner is coming in fresh to his position and to this policy matter, we see significant space for finding a meeting of the minds. We don't believe opposing sides should be entrenched on this one as either "pro -designation" or "anti -designation", but think we can all come together on an agreement: one that absolutely protects the historic landmark while also respecting the religious rights of the diocese that occupies the building. Today, the commissioner will be requesting the historic designation be deferred for a month. Commissioner Russell will then work with the Melkite diocese and various preservationists to find that path moving forward that can satisfy all sides. Stay tuned. Thanks again for reaching out, Eleazar David Melendez Director of Strategy and Communications Office of Commissioner Ken Russell Miami City Hall 3500 Pan American Drive Miami, Florida 33133 Office: 305-250-5335 Mobile: 212-729-6672 From: Arva Parks [mailto:arvamiami@bellsouth.net] Sent: Wednesday, January 27, 2016 10:20 PM 85 To: ken@kenrussellmiami.com; Russell, Ken (Commissioner) <krussell@miamigov.com> Subject: St, Jude Dear Ken: I continue to be so happy you are on the Commission. Thanks for your understanding of what matters. I understand you are having a press conference on St. Jude tomorrow. I will be there. I hope you will be in favor of historic designation. The church clearly meets the criteria which is what matters. There are many other churches designated in Miami. One of my favorites is the former Bryan Methodist Church on Main Highway in Coconut Grove. It is now an Orthodox Jewish Synagogue. That is a wonderful preservation success story. I am so tired of people from out of town telling us what matters. St. Jude has had three different denominations in the same building. That is a great story in itself. We also need to educate everyone on the value of being designated. If you have any questions that I can help you with please call me at 305 854-8087. Thanks for your leadership. Arva 86 Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk Melendez, Eleazar From: Melendez, Eleazar Sent: Thursday, January 28, 2016 4:19 PM To: 'Kitty Barkett' Subject: RE: St. Jude Chapel Ms. Barkett: Submitted into the public record for_item(s)-PZ.7 - on 02/25/2016, City Clerk Thank you for taking the time and energy to write us. We hear you loud and clear. Please know that aside from this email, Commissioner Russell has seen the hundreds of signatures on various petitions for this issue, read through dozens of emails and letters our office has received and handled several calls calling for designation. We understand that preserving the historic character of neighborhood landmarks is important in 21 st-century cities. Additionally, as you might know, Commissioner Russell is dedicated to responsible development throughout Miami that takes into account input from neighbors. At the same time, and as you certainly know, there are two sides to every issue. This one is no exception, and Commissioner Russell has read through dozens of emails and letters, as well as many calls to our office, opposing a historic designation. The main argument in opposition, that imposing certain conditions on the existing structure could impede the free practice of religion, is not something we are going to ignore or discard lightly. It's been the impression from Commissioner Russell, talking to folks on both sides of this dispute, that the debate so far has been unusually and unnecessarily harsh. Perhaps we are wrong, but given the Commissioner is coming in fresh to his position and to this policy matter, we see significant space for finding a meeting of the minds. We don't believe opposing sides should be entrenched on this one as either "pro -designation" or "anti - designation", but think we can all come together on an agreement: one that absolutely protects the historic landmark while also respecting the religious rights of the diocese that occupies the building. Today, the commissioner will be requesting the historic designation be deferred for a month. Commissioner Russell will then work with the Melkite diocese and various preservationists to find that path moving forward that can satisfy all sides. Stay tuned. Thanks again for reaching out, Eleazar David Melendez Director of Strategy and Communications Office of Commissioner Ken Russell Miami City Hall 3500 Pan American Drive Miami, Florida 33133. Office: 305-250-5335 Mobile: 212-729-6672 87 From: Kitty Barkett [mailto:kittybark3l@gmail.com] Sent: Thursday, January 28, 2016 12:25 PM To: Russell, Ken (Commissioner) <krussell@miamigov.com> Subject: St. Jude Chapel Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk Dear Commissioner Russell.... I'm writing you as a born and raised, Miami kid. I lived away from the area from 91 till last weekend. I moved back to work on promoting my Foundation. YOUNG WOMENS SCHOLARSHIP FOUNDATION, INCM...It's mission is to provide scholarships for Miami Dade county, female, scholar athletes. PLEASE VOTE IN FAVOR OF HISTORIC DESIGNATION. IT MEETS THE CRITERIA AND THE MAJORITY OF MIAMI PEOPLE WANT IT TO STAY WHERE IT IS AND BE CARED FOR AS IT SO DESERVES. Thank you in advance for listening to the will of the people verses the people that have other interests than for the greater good. Sincerely, Catherine W. Barkett.... President, Assumption Alumni Association 88 Melendez, Eleazar From: Melendez, Eleazar Sent: Thursday, January 28, 2016 4:17 PM To: Baker, Edward Subject: RE: St. Jude MelkiteChurch Mr. Baker: Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk Thank you for taking the time and energy to write us. We hear you loud and clear. Please know that aside from this email, Commissioner Russell has seen the hundreds of signatures on various petitions for this issue, read through dozens of emails and letters our office has received and handled several calls calling for designation. We understand that preserving the historic character of neighborhood landmarks is important in 21st-century cities. Additionally, as you might know, Commissioner Russell is dedicated to responsible development throughout Miami that takes into account input from neighbors. At the same time, and as you certainly know, there are two sides to every issue. This one is no exception, and Commissioner Russell has read through dozens of emails and letters, as well as many calls to our office, opposing a historic designation. The main argument in opposition, that imposing certain conditions on the existing structure could impede the free practice of religion, is not something we are going to ignore or discard lightly. It's been the impression from Commissioner Russell, talking to folks on both sides of this dispute, that the debate so far has been unusually and unecessarily harsh. Perhaps we are wrong, but given the Commissioner is coming in fresh to his position and to this policy matter, we see significant space for finding a meeting of the minds. We don't believe opposing sides should be entrenched on this one as either "pro -designation" or "anti -designation", but think we can all come together on an agreement: one that absolutely protects the historic landmark while also respecting the religious rights of the diocese that occupies the building. Today, the commissioner will be requesting the historic designation be deferred for a month. Commissioner Russell will then work with the Melkite diocese and various preservationists to find that path moving forward that can satisfy all • sides. Stay tuned. Thanks again for reaching out, Eleazar David Melendez Director of Strategy and Communications Miami City Hall 3500 Pan American Drive Miami, Florida 33133 Office: 305-250-5335 Mobile: 212-729-6672 From: Baker, Edward Sent: Thursday, January 28, 2016 1:29 PM To: Russell, Ken (Commissioner) <krussell@miamigov.com> 89 Cc: Regalado, Tomas (Mayor) <TRegalado@miamigov.com>; tedbaker40@gmail.com Subject: St. Jude MelkiteChurch Commissioner Russell, As a resident of District 2 for the past 7 years, as a Miami resident for 48 years, as a former chair of the Miami -Dade County Historic Preservation Board, and as a former member of the City of Miami Urban Development Review Board for many years, I applaud your efforts to recognize St. Jude as an important cultural and community site worthy of Historic Designation and preservation. Ted Baker, FASLA, MDes, MLA, PLA Fellow / American Society of Landscape Architects Florida DBPR / Landscape Architect License #322 Department of Parks + Recreation / City of Miami, Florida 444 Southwest 2nd Avenue / Miami, FL 33130 Office 305-416-1387 / CeII 305-479-9109 ebaker@miamigov.com "It's not what you take when you leave this world behind you, it's what you leave behind you when you go." 90 Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk Melendez, Eleazar Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk From: Melendez, Eleazar on behalf of Russell, Ken (Commissioner) Sent: Thursday, January 28, 2016 7:36 PM To: 'Elsa Robinson' Subject: RE: Subject: NO Historical Designation for St Jude's Church Ms. Robinson: Thank you for taking the time and energy to write us. We hear you loud and clear. Please know that aside from this email, Commissioner Russell has seen the hundreds of signatures on various petitions for this issue, read through dozens of emails and letters our office has received and handled several calls calling for designation. We understand that preserving the historic character of neighborhood landmarks is important in 21st-century cities. Additionally, as you might know,.Commissioner Russell is dedicated to responsible development throughout Miami that takes into account input from neighbors. At the same time, and as you certainly know, there are two sides to every issue. This one is no exception, and Commissioner Russell has read through dozens of emails and letters, as well as many calls to our office, opposing a historic designation. The main argument in opposition, that imposing certain conditions on the existing structure could impede the free practice of religion, is not something we are going to ignore or discard lightly. It's been the impression from Commissioner Russell, talking to folks on both sides of this dispute, that the debate so far has been unusually and unnecessarily harsh. Perhaps we are wrong, but given the Commissioner is coming in fresh to his position and to this policy matter, we see significant space for finding a meeting of the minds. We don't believe opposing sides should be entrenched on this one as either "pro -designation" or "anti -designation", but think we can all come together on an agreement: one that absolutely protects the historic landmark while also respecting the religious rights of the diocese that occupies the building. Today, the commissioner has requested the historic designation be deferred for a month. Commissioner Russell will then work with the Melkite diocese and various preservationists to find that path moving forward that can satisfy all sides. Stay tuned. Thanks again for reaching out,. Eleazar David Melendez Director of Strategy and Communications Office of Commissioner Ken Russell Miami City Hall 3500 Pan American Drive Miami, Florida 33133 Office: 305-250-5335 Mobile: 212-729-6672 From: Elsa Robinson [mailto:elsa.robinson@gmail.com] Sent: Sunday, January 24, 2016 12:55 PM 1 To: Russell, Ken (Commissioner) <krussell@miamigov.com> Subject: Subject: NO Historical Designation for St Jude's Church 2016 Dear Commissioner Ken Russell, Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk I worship at St Jude Melkite Church. St Jude"s primary significance is religious, respectfully we ask the Commission to respect the Separation of Church and State as our US Constitution guarantees. The Decisions of both The 11 th Circuit Court and The Third District Court affirmed our Primary Significance as Religious. National and Local ordinances exempt Churches. I am opposed to Historical designation of St Jude Melkite Church as it would increaseoperating costs threatening the very existence of St Jude Melkite Shrine Church; interfering with the practice of religion and the constitutional separation of Church and State. I appreciate any support you can provide in this matter, as the continual legal fees and disturbances have been going on for years disturbing the. peace of the Parish. Again, I visit St Jude's for religious worship and respectfully ask The City of Miami to respect the sanctity of my religious practice. Thank you for considering my request and for your public service Respectfully, Name: Elsa Velez Robinson Address: 1925 Brickell Ave D1902 City: Miami Zip code: 33129 Telephone : 305 606-4488 2 Melendez, Eleazar Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk From: Melendez, Eleazar on behalf of Russell, Ken (Commissioner) Sent: Thursday, January 28, 2016 6:11 PM To: 'bruce.rudenberg@wellsfargoadvisors.com' Subject: RE: St. Jude Church Mr. Rudenberg: Thank you for taking the time and energy to write us. Commissioner Russell has seen the hundreds of signatures on various petitions for this issue, read through dozens of emails and letters our office has received and handled several calls calling for designation. We understand that preserving the historic character of neighborhood landmarks is important in 21st-century cities. Additionally, as you might know, Commissioner Russell is dedicated to responsible development throughout Miami that takes into account input from neighbors. At the same time, and as you certainly know, there are two sides to every issue. This one is no exception, and Commissioner Russell has read through dozens of emails and letters, as well as many calls to our office, opposing a historic designation. The main argument in opposition, that imposing certain conditions on the existing structure could impede the free practice of religion, is not something we are going to ignore or discard lightly. It's been the impression from Commissioner Russell, talking to folks on both sides of this dispute, that the debate so far has been unusually and unnecessarily harsh. Perhaps we are wrong, but given the Commissioner is coming in fresh to his position and to this policy matter, we see significant space for finding a meeting of the minds. We don't believe opposing sides should be entrenched on this one as either "pro -designation" or "anti -designation", but think we can all come together on an agreement: one that absolutely protects the historic landmark while also respecting the religious rights of the diocese that occupies the building. Today, the commissioner will be requesting the historic designation be deferred for a month. Commissioner Russell will then work with the Melkite diocese and various preservationists to find that path moving forward that can satisfy all sides. Stay tuned.. Thanks again for reaching out, Eleazar David Melendez Director of Strategy and Communications Office of Commissioner Ken Russell Miami City Hall 3500 Pan American Drive Miami, Florida 33133 Office: 305-250-5335 Mobile: 212-729-6672 From: brute.rudenberg@wellsfargoadvisors.com [mailto:bruce.rudenberg@wellsfargoadvisors.com] Sent: Friday, December 04, 2015 3:28 PM To: Russell, Ken (Commissioner) <krussell@miamigov.com> Subject: St. Jude Church 3 With the issue of designating the St. Jude church an historical building on the agenda of the Jan. 28th commission meeting, I'm interested in your point of view. My wife and I live in Villa Regina and have a strong interest in the character of our neighborhood. Please be in touch and feel free to call me if that's more convenient for you than email. Best regards for the holidays BAR Rudenberg FINANCIAL STRATEGIES GROUP of Wells Fargo Advisors Bruce Alan Rudenberg Senior Vice President -Investments Wells Fargo Advisors 1333 SE 2nd Ave I Miami, Florida 33131 46th Floor Tel 305-523-2854 I Toll -Free 800-327-3217 I Fax 305-577-0207 bruce.rudenberq@wellsfaraoadvisors.com Brian Gregory Rudenberg Financial Advisor Wells Fargo Advisors 1333 SE 2nd Ave I Miami, FL 33131 46th Floor Tel 305-523-2856 I Toll -Free 800-327-3217 I Fax 305 -577-0207 brian.rudenberaOwfadvisors.com www.rudenbercfso.com To unsubscribe from marketing e-mails from: • An individual Wells Fargo Advisors financial advisor: Reply to one of his/her e-mails and type "Unsubscribe" in the subject line. • Wells Fargo and its affiliates: Unsubscribe at https://www.wellsfargoadvisors.com/wellsfarno-unsubscribe Neither of these actions will affect delivery of important service messages regarding your accounts that we may need to send you or preferences you may have previously set for other e-mail services. For additional information regarding our electronic communication policies, visit htto://wellsfaraoadvisors.com/disclosures/email-disclosure.html. Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC is a registered broker -dealer and separate nonbank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company, Member FINRA/SIPC. 1 North Jefferson, St. Louis, MO 63103. This email may be an advertisement or solicitation for products and services. 4 Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk From: Russell, Ken (Commissioner). Sent: Wednesday, February 24, 2016 9:44 PM To: abijen2002@gmail.com Subject: Re: NO Historical Designation for St Jude's Church Greetings, Thank you for taking the time to write me. Submitted into the public Melendez, Eleazar record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk I wanted to apologize, first off, on the delay in responding. While I try to have my office respond to most calls or emails within a day, I wanted to take my time to analyze this important policy issue and hear what various parties had to say before getting back to you. Please know that aside from this email, I've read through dozens of other emails and letters, as well as many calls to our office, both opposing and supporting a historic designation. I understand the concerns that imposing a designation on the existing structure could impede the free practice of religion. I also understand that preserving the historic character of neighborhood landmarks is important in 21 st-century cities. I have also taken the time to speak with representatives of the diocese and my staff has met with parishioners both in favor and against the designation. This is an issue where I am bound by law to hear both sides, and rule in terms of what I think•is both in the best interests of the city, while also protecting the religious rights of the diocese. As such, the City Commission will be hearing from all sides and taking a decision at 3 p.m. tomorrow. I invite you to attend and express your opinion on this issue. Thanks, Ken Russell City of Miami Commissioner Sent from Outlook Mobile On Fri, Feb 5, 2016 at 9:18 AM -0800, "abijen2002@gmail.com" <abijen2002@gmail.com> wrote: Dear Commissioners and Mayor Regalado,J I worship at St Jude Melkite Church. St Jude"s primary significance is religious, respectfully we ask the Commission to respect the Separation of Church and State as our US Constitution guarantees. The Decisions of both The llth Circuit Court and The Third District Court affirmed our Primary Significance as Religious. National and Local ordinances exempt Churches 1 1 I am opposed to Historical designation of St Jude Melkite Church as it would increase operating costs1 threatening the very existence of St Jude Melkite Shrine Church; interferingwith the practice of religion, and the constitutional separation of Church and State. I appreciate any support you can provide in this matter, as the continual legal fees and disturbances have been going on for years disturbing the peace of the Parish . 1 Again, I visit St Jude's for religious worship and respectfully ask The City of Miami to respect thel, sanctity of my religious practice. Thank you for considering my request and for your public service Res ectfull Name:Jenny Correa Address: 770 Caughton Island Dr. #9121 City: Miami Zip code:33131 Telephone : 78655610211 Sent from my iPhone 2 Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk Melendez, Eleazar Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 On 02/25/2016, City Clerk From: Russell, Ken (Commissioner) Sent: Wednesday, February 24, 2016 9:44 PM To: crier001@fiu.edu Subject: Re: NO Historical Designation for St Jude's Church Greetings, Thank you for taking the time to write me. I wanted to apologize, first off, on the delay in responding. While I try to have my office respond to most calls or emails within a day, I wanted to take my time to analyze this important policy issue and hear what various parties had to say before getting back to you. Please know that aside from this email, I've read through dozens of other emails and letters, as well as many calls to our office, both opposing and supporting a historic designation. I understand the concerns that imposing a designation on the existing structure could impede the free practice of religion. I also understand that preserving the historic character of neighborhood landmarks is important in 21 st-century cities. I have also taken the time to speak with representatives of the diocese and my staff has met with parishioners both in favor and against the designation. This is an issue where I am bound by law to hear both sides, and rule in terms of what I think is both in the best interests of the city, while also protecting the religious rights. of the diocese. As such, the City Commission will be hearing from all sides and taking a decision at 3 p.m. tomorrow. I invite you to attend and express your opinion on this issue. Thanks, Ken Russell City of Miami Commissioner Sent from Outlook Mobile On Tue, Feb 9, 2016 at 9:25 AM -0800, "Cindie Riera" <crier001 @fiu.edu> wrote: 2016 Dear Commissioners and Mayor Regalado, I worship at St Jude Melkite Church. St Jude"s primary significance is religious, respectfully we ask the Commission to 3 respect the Separation of Church and State as our US Constitution guarantees. The Decisions of both The 11th Circuit Court and The Third District Court affirmed our Primary Significance as Religious. National and Local ordinances exempt Churches. I am opposed to Historical designation of St Jude Melkite Church as it would increase operating costs threatening the very existence of St Jude Melkite Shrine Church; interfering with the practice of religion and the constitutional separation of Church and State. appreciate any support you can provide in this matter, as the continual legal fees and disturbances have been going on for years disturbing the peace of the Parish. Again, I visit St Jude's for religious worship and respectfully ask The City of Miami to respect the sanctity of my religious practice. Thank you for considering my request and for your public service Respectfully, Name:Cindie Riera Address:8520 nw 176 st City: hialeah Zip code:33015 Telephone : 786-473-9955 Kindest Regards, Cindie Riera F.I.U. Graduate Biology Major Q'BIC Scholar/F.I.U.'s Best in Class (786) 473-9955 crier001@fiu.edu "Men and words reciprocally educate each other. Science continuously changes and shifts the vocabulary." Susan Haack 4 Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk Submitted into the public Melendez, Eleazar record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk From: Russell, Ken (Commissioner) Sent: Wednesday, February 24, 2016 9:44 PM To: ialvarado@habitatgroup.com Subject: Re: ref: SAY NO TO IMPOSED HISTORIC DESIGNATION Greetings, Thank you for taking the time to write me. I wanted to apologize, first off, on the delay in responding. While I try to have my office respond to most calls or emails within a day, I wanted to take my time to analyze this important policy issue and hear what various parties had to say before getting back to you. Please know that aside from this email, I've read through dozens of other emails and letters, as well as many calls to our office, both opposing and supporting a historic designation. I understand the concerns that imposing a designation on the existing structure could impede the free practice of religion. I also understand that preserving the historic character of neighborhood landmarks is important in 21st-century cities. I have also taken the time to speak with representatives of the diocese and my staff has met with parishioners both in favor and against the designation. This is an issue where I am bound by law to hear both sides, and rule in terms of what I think is both in the best interests of the city, while also protecting the religious rights of the diocese. As such, the City Commission will be hearing from all sides and taking a decision at 3 p.m. tomorrow. I invite you to attend and express your opinion on this issue. Thanks, Ken Russell City of Miami Commissioner Sent from Outlook Mobile On Wed, Feb 10, 2016 at 12:39 PM -0800, "Ileana Alvarado" <ialvarado@habitatgroup.com> wrote: Say No to Imposed Historic Designation! Dear Commissioners and Mayor Regalado 5 I worship at St Jude Melkite Church. St Jude"s primary significance is religious, respectfully we ask the Commission to respect the Separation of Church and State as our US Constitution guarantees. The Decisions of both The 1 lth Circuit Court and The Third District Court affirmed our Primary Significance as Religious. National and Local ordinances exempt Churches. I am opposed to Historical designation of St Jude Melkite Church as it would increase operating costs threatening the very existence of St Jude Melkite Shrine Church; interfering with the practice of religion and the constitutional separation of Church and State. I appreciate any support you can provide in this matter, as the continual legal fees and disturbances have been going on for years disturbing the peace of the Parish. Again, I visit St Jude's for religious worship and respectfully ask The City of Miami to respect the sanctity of my religious practice. Thank you, for considering my request and for your public service Respectfully, Name: ILEANA ALVARADO Address: 2537 SW 15TH ST City: MIAMI Zip code: 33145 Telephone : 7862677674 Cordial Saludo, Ileana M Alvarado Real Estate Analyst Asset Management & Account Controller Habitat Group 175 SW 7th ST STE 2201 MIAMI - FL 33130 PHONE: 786.577.4394 MOBILE: 786.267.7674 EMAIL: ialvarado@habitatgroup.com WEB: www.habitataroup.com 6 Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk Melendez, Eleazar From: Russell, Ken (Commissioner) Sent: Wednesday, February 24, 2016 9:42 PM To: idelsynapier@yahoo.com Subject: Re: St. Jude's Catholic Church - Brickell Greetings, Thank you for taking the time to write me. Submitted into the public _record for_item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk I wanted to apologize, first off, on the delay in responding. While I try to have my office respond to most calls or emails within a day, I wanted to take my time to analyze this important policy issue and hear what various parties had to say before getting back to you. Please know that aside from this email, I've read through dozens of other emails and letters, as well as many calls to our office, both opposing and supporting a historic designation. I understand the concerns that imposing a designation on the existing structure could impede the free practice of religion. I also understand that preserving the historic character of neighborhood landmarks is important in 21 st-century cities. I have also taken the time to speak with representatives of the diocese and my staff has met with parishioners both in favor and against the designation. This is an issue. where I am bound by law to hear both sides; and rule in terms of what I think is both in the best interests of the city, while also protecting the religious rights of the diocese. As such, the City Commission will be hearing from all sides and taking a decision at 3 p.m. tomorrow. I invite you to attend and express your opinion on this issue. Thanks, Ken Russell City of Miami Commissioner Sent from Outlook Mobile On Sat, Feb 20, 2016 at 3:36 PM -0800, "Idelsy Napier" <idelsynapier(a,yahoo.com> wrote: Just to state my position that I am, against the destruction of St. Jude's Catholic Church in Brickell. I believe this building is a historic part of our city that we should preserve. Sincerely, Idelsy Napier 185 SW 7th St. Miami, FL 33130 7 Melendez, Eleazar Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk From: Russell, Ken (Commissioner) Sent: Wednesday, February 24, 2016 9:41 PM To: felixriverac@gmail.com Subject: Re: NO Historical Designation for St Jude's Church Greetings, Thank you for taking the time to write me. I wanted to apologize, first off, on the delay in responding. While I try to have my office respond to most calls or emails within a day, I wanted to take my time to analyze this important policy issue and hear what various parties had to say before getting back to you. Please know that aside from this email, I've read through dozens of other emails and letters, as well as many calls to our office, both opposing and supporting a historic designation. I understand the concerns that imposing a designation on the existing structure could impede the free practice of religion. I also understand that preserving the historic character of neighborhood landmarks is important in 21 st-century cities. I have also taken the time to speak with representatives of the diocese and my staff has met with parishioners both in favor and against the designation. This is an issue where I am bound by law to hear both sides, and rule in terms of what I think is both in the best interests of the city, while also protecting the religious rights of the diocese. As such, the City Commission will be hearing from all sides and taking a decision at 3 p.m. tomorrow. I invite you to attend and express your opinion on this issue. Thanks, Ken Russell City of Miami Commissioner Sent from Outlook Mobile On Sun, Feb 21, 2016 at 2:42 AM -0800, "Felix E. Rivera Cermefo" <felixriverac@gmail.com> wrote: Dear Commissioners and Mayor Regalado, support St Jude Melkite Church. St Jude's primary significance is religious, respectfully we ask the Commission to respect the Separation of Church and State as our US Constitution guarantees. 8 The Decisions of both The 11th Circuit Court and The Third District Court affirmed our Primary Significance as Religious. National and Local ordinances exempt Churches. I am opposed to Historical designation of St Jude Melkite Church as it would increase operating costs threatening the very existence of St Jude Melkite Shrine Church; interfering with the practice of religion and the constitutional separation of Church and State. I appreciate any support you can provide in this matter, as the continual legal fees and disturbances have been going on for years disturbingthepeaceof the Parish. Again, I support St Jude's and respectfully ask The City of Miami to respect the sanctity of its religious practice. Thank you for considering my request and for your public service Respectfully, Name: Felix Rivera Address: 325 S Biscayne Blvd, #3914 City: Miami Zip code:33131 Telephone : 305-215-0283 Best regards, Felix E. Rivera Cermeno 9 Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02 25 2016 City Clerk Melendez, Eleazar From: Russell, Ken (Commissioner) Sent: Wednesday, February 24, 2016 9:41 PM To: eileenjohann@gmail.com Subject: Re: St Jude Church Greetings, Thank you for taking the time to write me. Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7- on 02/25/2016, City Clerk I wanted to apologize, first off, on the delay in responding. While I try to have my office respond to most calls or emails within a day, I wanted to take my time to analyze this important policy issue and hear what various parties had to say before getting back to you. Please know that aside from this email, I've read through dozens of other emails and letters, as well as many calls to our office, both opposing and supporting a historic designation. I understand the concerns that imposing a designation on the existing structure could impede the free practice of religion. I also understand that preserving the historic character of neighborhood landmarks is important in 21 st-century cities. I have also taken the time to speak with representatives of the diocese and my staff has met with parishioners both in favor and against the designation. This is an issue where I am bound by law to hear both sides, and rule in terms of what I think is both in the best interests of the city, while also protecting the religious rights of the diocese. As such, the City Commission will be hearing from all sides and taking a decision at 3 p.m. tomorrow. I invite you to attend and express your opinion on this issue. Thanks, Ken Russell City of Miami Commissioner Sent from Outlook Mobile On Sun, Feb 21, 2016 at 7:36 AM -0800, "Eileen Johann" <eileen.johann@gmail.com> wrote: Dear Sir, I would like to inform you that a Public Hearing sign from the City of Miami, posted at 1501 Brickell Av., in front of St Jude Church, was torn down, hours after it was posted. The community is NOT informed about this Public Hearing on Thursday, 2/25/2016 10 I live at 1541 Brickell Av, a few feet away from St Jude and took a photo of the announcement before it was removed. Please see attachment below. At 9:45 PM on Monday 2/15/16 I. took a photo which announces the Public Hearing On Tuesday 2/16/16, the announcement was torn down although it stated that: "Tampering or removing this announcement would be punished by law". Please help preserve this iconic church by designating it a historic site. Thank you, Eileen Johann 11 Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk Submitted into the public Melendez, Eleazar record for item(s) PZ.7 - on 02/25/2016, City Clerk From: Russell, Ken (Commissioner) Sent: Wednesday, February 24, 2016 9:41 PM To: ccossyph@gmail.com Subject: Re: Designation of St Jude Church as a Historic Site.... Greetings, Thank you for taking the time to write me. I wanted to apologize, first off, on the delay in responding. While I try to have my office respond to most calls or emails within a day, I wanted to take my time to analyze this important policy issue and hear what various parties had to say before getting back to you. Please know that aside from this email, I've read through dozens of other emails and letters, as well as many calls to our office, both opposing and supporting a historic designation. I understand the concerns that imposing a designation on the existing structure could impede the free practice of religion. I also understand that preserving the historic character of neighborhood landmarks is important in 21 st-century cities. I have also taken the time to speak with representatives of the diocese and my staff has met with parishioners both in favor and against the designation. This is an issue where I am bound by law to hear both sides, and rule in terms of what I think is both in the best interests of the city, while also protecting the religious rights of the diocese. As such, the City Commission will be hearing from all sides and taking a decision at 3 p.m. tomorrow. I invite you to attend and express your opinion on this issue. Thanks, Ken Russell City of Miami Commissioner Sent from Outlook Mobile On Mon, Feb 22, 2016 at 10:50 AM -0800, "Christos Cossyphas" <ccossyph@gmail.com> wrote: Dear Mr. Russell, I am not sure if it is too late or not (and/or if you are the appropriate person to contact) but I wanted to voice my support for designating the St. Juse Church at 1501 Brickell Av. as a historic site and I was hoping you share my letter with the other voting commissioners (I will try to email a few of them if I can find all the email addresses). I know a hearing is coming up and I know I would regret if I did not speak out in advance. This is the first time I have ever contacted a commissioner on any issue but I felt strongly enough about this issue to take the time to contact you. 12 I am not a parishioner nor a faithful of their congregation but I live in the area and have had the opportunity to walk/run/bike/drive by the church alone or with my family on countless occasions. I have always admired the architecture of the building and even took the time to visit the inside of the church and also to read about its history and what it symbolizes for the people that visit it week after week and those others that live, work, or visit Miami. The Church is a beautiful part of Miami and the Brickell neighborhood and I hope it remains so for generations, please do what you can to preserve this beautiful historic landmark. Christos Cossyphas Long time Brickell Resident 13 Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk Melendez, Eleazar Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk From: Russell, Ken (Commissioner) Sent: Wednesday, February 24, 2016 9:40 PM To: sguzman@univision.net Subject: Re: Respectfully Ask: NO Historical Designation for St Jude's Church Greetings, Thank you for taking the time to write me. I wanted to apologize, first off, on the delay in responding. While I try to have my office respond to most calls or emails within a day, I wanted to take my time to analyze this important policy issue and hear what various parties had to say before getting back to you. Please know that aside from this email, I've read through dozens of other emails and letters, as well as many calls to our office, both opposing and supporting a historic designation. I understand the concerns that imposing a designation on the existing structure could impede the free practice of religion. I also understand that preserving the historic character of neighborhood landmarks is important in 21 st-century cities. I have also taken the time to speak with representatives of the diocese and my staff has met with parishioners both in favor and against the designation. This is an issue where I am bound by law to hear both sides, and rule in terms of what I think is both in the best interests of the city, while also protecting the religious rights of the diocese. As such, the City Commission will be hearing from all sides and taking a decision at 3 p.m. tomorrow. I invite you to attend and express your opinion on this issue. Thanks, Ken Russell City of Miami Commissioner Sent from Outlook Mobile On Mon, Feb 22, 2016 at 4:15 PM -0800, "Susan Guzman" <sguzman@UNIVISION.NET> wrote: Dear Commissioners and Mayor Regalado, I support St Jude Melkite Church. St Jude"s primary significance is religious, respectfully we ask the Commission to respect the Separation of Church and State as our US Constitution guarantees. The Decisions of both The 1 lth Circuit Court and The Third District Court affirmed our Primary Significance as Religious. National and Local ordinances exempt Churches. I am opposed to Historical designation of St Jude Melkite Church as it would increase operating costs threatening the very existence of St Jude Melkite Shrine Church; interfering with the practice of religion and the constitutional separation of Church and State. I appreciate any support you can provide in this matter, as the continual legal fees and disturbances have been going on for years disturbing the peace of the Parish. 14 Again, I support. St Jude's and respectfully ask The City of Miami to respect the sanctity of its religious practice. Thank you for considering my request and for your public service Respectfully, Susan Guzman Name: Susan Guzman Address: 28 SW 23rd, City: Miami Zip code: 33129 Telephone : 917-575-1254 Susan Guzman I Animator Designer I Univision Communications Inc. 19405 NW 41st Street, Miami, FL 33178 sguzman@univision.net<mailto:sguzman@univision.net> I http://www.univision.net [cid: f204df.png@19677639.45be25b2]<http://www.univision.net> This email and any attachments may contain confidential or privileged information entitled to protection against disclosure. Please do not forward except as authorized. If you are not the intended recipient, your receipt of this email was inadvertent, and there was no intent to disclose the information herein. Inadvertent recipients may not use or disclose this information. Please notify the sender by replying to this message and then delete it and discard any copies. El presente correo electronico y cualquier anexo del mismo pueden contener informacion confidencial o privilegiada, la cual esta protegida para evitar su divulgaciOn. Por favor no to reenvie a menos que cuente con autorizaciOn. Si usted no es el destinatario, su recepcian fue un descuido y no existi6 intenciOn alguna de divulgar la informacion contenida en el mismo. Los receptores involuntarios no podran utilizar o revelar esta informacian. Por favor informe al remitente respondiendo a este mensaje y posteriormente eliminelo junto con cualquier copia. 15 Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk Melendez, Eleazar From: Russell, Ken (Commissioner) Sent: Wednesday, February 24, 2016 9:40 PM To: alvaromunozandassociates@gmail.com Subject: Re: Greetings, Thank you for taking the time to write me. Submitted into the public record for -items) PZ:7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk I wanted to apologize, first off, on the delay in responding. While I try to have my office respond to most calls or emails within a day, I wanted to take my time to analyze this important policy issue and hear what various parties had to say before getting back to you. Please know that aside from this email, I've read through dozensof other emails and letters, as well as many calls to our office, both opposing and supporting a historic designation. I understand the concerns that imposing a designation on the existing structure could impede the free practice of religion. I also understand that preserving the historic character of neighborhood landmarks is important in 21 st-century cities. I have also taken the time to speak with representatives of the diocese and my staff has met with parishioners both in favor and against the designation. This is an issue where I am bound by law to hear both sides, and rule in terms of what I think is both in the best interests of the city, while also protecting the religious rights of the diocese. As such, the City Commission will be hearing from all sides and taking a decision at 3 p.m. tomorrow. I invite you to attend and express your opinion on this issue. Thanks, Ken Russell City of Miami Commissioner Sent from Outlook Mobile On Mon, Feb 22, 2016 at 5:58 PM -0800, "Alvaro H. Munoz"<alvaromunozandassociatesgsmail.com> wrote: Subject: NO Historical Designation for St Jude's Church Dear Commissioner Russell, 16 I worship at St Jude Melkite Church. St Jude"s primary significance is religious, respectfully we ask the Commission to respect the Separation of Church and State as our US Constitution guarantees. The Decisions of both The 11 th Circuit Court and The Third District Court affirmed our Primary Significance as Religious. National and Local ordinances exempt Churches. I am opposed to Historical designation of St Jude Melkite Church as it would increase operating costs threatening the very existence of St Jude Melkite Shrine Church; interfering with the practice of religion and the constitutional separation of Church and State. I appreciate any support you can provide in this matter, as the continual legal fees and disturbances have been going on for years disturbing the peace of the Parish. Again, I attend St Jude's for religious worship and respectfully ask The City of Miami to respect the sanctity of my religious practice. Thank you for considering my request and for your public service Respectfully, Name: Alvaro H Munoz Address: 2475 Brickell Av. City: Miami Zip code: 30329 Telephone : 678 3863574 Alvaro H. Munoz 678 3863574 17 Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk Melendez, Eleazar From: Russell, Ken (Commissioner) Sent: Wednesday, February 24, 2016 9:39 PM To: , arodry1906@gmail.com Subject: Re: NO Historical Designation for St Jude's Church Greetings, Thank you for taking the time to write me. Submitted into the public -recordfor item(s) PZ.7- - on 02/25/2016, City Clerk I wanted to apologize, first off, on the delay in responding. While I try to have my office respond to most calls or emails within a day, I wanted to take my time to analyze this important policy issue and hear what various parties had to say before getting back to you. Please know that aside from this email, I've read through dozens of other emails and letters, as well as many calls to our office, both opposing and supporting a historic designation. I understand the concerns that imposing a designation on the existing structure could impede the free practice of religion. I also understand that preserving the historic character of neighborhood landmarks is important in 21 st-century cities. I have also taken the time to speak with representatives of the diocese and my staff has met with parishioners both in favor and against the designation. This is an issue where I am bound by law to hear both sides, and rule in terms of what I think is both in the best interests of the city, while also protecting the religious rights of the diocese. As such, the City Commission will be hearing from all sides and taking a decision at 3 p.m. tomorrow. I invite you to attend and express your opinion on this issue. Thanks, Ken Russell City of Miami Commissioner Sent from Outlook Mobile On Mon, Feb 22, 2016 at 8:16 PM -0800, "Andrea Rodriguez" <arodry1906c2i gmail.com> wrote: This is a mail in support to the NO Historical Designation for St Jude's Church. Respectfully A.Rodriguez • 18 Melendez, Eleazar From: Russell, Ken (Commissioner) Sent: Wednesday, February 24, 2016 9:38 PM To: sd@suzannedelehanty.com Subject: Re: Saint Jude's and preserving our history Greetings, Thank you for taking the time to write me. Submitted into the public -record for-item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk I wanted to apologize, first off, on the delay in responding. While I try to have my office respond to most calls or emails within a day, I wanted to take my time to analyze this important policy issue and hear what various parties had to say before getting back to you. Please know that aside from this email, I've read through dozens of other emails and letters, as well as many calls to our office, both opposing and supporting a historic designation. I understand the concerns that imposing a designation on the existing structure could impede the free practice of religion. I also understand that preserving the historic character of neighborhood landmarks is important in 21 st-century cities. I have also taken the time to speak with representatives of the diocese and my staff has met with parishioners both in favor and against the designation. This is an issue where I am bound by law to hear both sides, and rule in terms of what I think is both in the best interests of the city, while also protecting the religious rights of the diocese. As such, the City Commission will be hearing from all sides and taking a decision at 3 p.m. tomorrow. I invite you to attend and express your opinion on this issue. Thanks, Ken Russell City of Miami Commissioner Sent from Outlook Mobile On Tue, Feb 23, 2016 at 11:36 AM -0800, "Suzanne Delehanty" <sd a suzannedelehantv.com> wrote: Dear Commissioner Russell: As one of your District 2 constituents, I am writing to thank you and the Mayor for postponing the review of Saint Jude Church's request to appeal historic designation for greater study. I am writing again to reconfirm my ardent hope that you will champion historic designation for Saint Jude's Church AND its entire campus when the issue comes before the City of Miami Commission on February 25. The property 19 meets all the criteria for historic preservation as documented in the thorough study carried out by the City's preservation officer. Located at the corner Brickell Avenue and 15th Road, Saint Jude's campus maintains a human scale, contributing to quality of life in the increasing overcrowded and traffic congested neighborhood. Brickell is a desirable neighborhood for business and residents because it has a number of distinctive historic and architecturally significant buildings and green spaces. These unique features not only remind us residents and our children of our history, but make Miami an attractive tourist destination, which is vital to our economic prosperity . Thank you for standing for historic preservation and the quality of life in our community. Sincerely, Suzanne Delehanty SUZANNE DELEHANTYLLG 1541 Brickell Avenue A602 Miami, Florida 33129 305.582.6344 suzannedelehanty.com 20 Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk Submitted into the public Melendez, Eleazar _record for item(s) PZ.7 From: Russell, Ken (Commissioner) on 02/25/2016, City Clerk Sent: Wednesday, February 24, 2016 9:38 PM To: sharonmkoenig@gmail.com Subject: Re: Fwd: Att Chris / Important information to read about our St Jude Catholic Melkite Church Greetings, Thank you for taking the time to write me. I wanted to apologize, first off, on the delay in responding. While I try to have my office respond to most calls or emails within a day, I wanted to take my time to analyze this important policy issue and hear what various parties had to say before getting back to you. Please know that aside from this email, I've read through dozens of other emails and letters, as well as many calls to our office, both opposing and supporting a historic designation. I understand the concerns that imposing a designation on the existing structure could impede the free practice of religion. I also understand that preserving the historic character of neighborhood landmarks is important in 21 st-century cities. I have also taken the time to speak with representatives of the diocese and my staff has met with parishioners both in favor and against the designation. This is an issue where I am bound by law to hear both sides, and rule in terms of what I think is both in the best interests of the city, while also protecting the religious rights of the diocese. As such, the City Commission will be hearing from all sides and taking a decision at 3 p.m. tomorrow. I invite you to attend and express your opinion on this issue. Thanks, Ken Russell City of Miami Commissioner Sent from Outlook Mobile On Tue, Feb 23, 2016 at 12:50 PM -0800, "Sharon Koenig" <sharonmkoenig(a,gmail.com> wrote: Chris, Thank you for your information about Kim Bentley , I am sending the email to both Forwarded message From: Sharon Koenig <sharonmkoenig@gmail.com> Date: Mon, Feb 22, 2016 at 8:33 PM 21 Subject: Important information to read about our St Jude Catholic Melkite Church To: krussell@miamigov.com Ken Russell, I enjoyed reading your personal story, I know you are a man of justice and mean well. That is why I am sending you this letter that I pray you take time to read in order to learn more about our faith and why this Church must be left to worship in peace. I am also a Best seller writer on religion and spirituality, and a neighbor who lives at The Four Seasons Residences, I don't officially represent the Church, but I have become close to it, frequently reading in Liturgy. I also attend almost daily, and learned to grow to love and admire its faith history. I originally came to the Church investigating for my new book, but it did much more, it changed my life. I hopeyou take time to read this letter. You can also contact me anytime . It is very painful to hear everyone using the word battle in the same sentence as the most peaceful place in Miami in the middle of our most sacred time of Lent. Respectfully, Sharon M Koenig 1425 Brickell Ave Miami, F133131 My Ce1305-979-90R3 https://www.facebook.com/SharonMKoenigEspanol/ https://twitter.com/SharonMKoenig 22 Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk Melendez, Eleazar From: Russell, Ken (Commissioner) Sent: Wednesday, February 24, 2016 9:38 PM To: Iopersandra333@gmail.com Subject: Re: No Historical Designation for St. Jude Church Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 Greetings, Thank you for taking the time to write me. on 02/25/2016, City Clerk I wanted to apologize, first off, on the delay in responding. While I try to have my office respond to most calls or emails within a day, I wanted to take my time to analyze this important policy issue and hear what various parties had to say before getting back to you.. Please know that aside from this email, I've read through dozens of other emails and letters, as well as many calls to our office, both opposing and supporting a historic designation. I understand the concerns that imposing a designation on the existing structure could impede the free practice of religion. I also understand that preserving the historic character of neighborhood landmarks is important in 21st-century cities. I have also taken the time to speak with representatives of the diocese and my staff has met with parishioners • both in favor and against the designation. This is an issue where I am bound by law to hear both sides, and rule in terms of what I think is both in the best interests of the city, while also protecting the religious rights of the diocese. As such, the City Commission will be hearing from all sides and taking a -decision at 3 p.m. tomorrow. I invite you to attend and express your opinion on this issue. Thanks, Ken Russell City of Miami Commissioner Sent from Outlook Mobile On Tue, Feb 23, 2016 at 3:07 PM -0800, "Sandra Lopez" <lopersandra333@gmail.com> wrote: ear Commissioners and Mayor Regalado, I worship at St Jude Melkite Church. St Jude's primary significance is religious, respectfully we ask the Commission to respect the Separation of Church and State as our US Constitution guarantees. The Decisions of both The llth Circuit Court and The Third District Court affirmed our Primary !Significance as Religious. National and Local ordinances exempt Churches 23 1 am opposed to Historical designation of St Jude Melkite Church as it would increase operating costs threatening the very existence of St Jude Melkite Shrine Church; interfering with the practice o j ;religion and the constitutional separation of Church and State. I appreciate any support you cans provide in this matter, as the continual legal fees and disturbances have been going on for years, disturbing the peace of the Parish: Again, I visit St Jude's for religious worship and respectfully ask The City of Miami to respect the sanctity of my religious practice. Thank you for considering my request and for your public service Respectfully,; Name: Sandra Lopez Address: 905 Brickell Bay Drive, Apt. 322! City: Miami Zip code:33131 Telephone:305-951-1251 24 Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk Melendez, Eleazar From: Russell, Ken (Commissioner) Sent: Wednesday, February 24, 2016 9:38 PM To: esaldarriaga44@gmail.com Subject: Re: NO Historical Designation for St Jude's Church Greetings, Thank you for taking the time to write me. Submitted into the public -record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk I wanted to apologize, first off, on the delay in responding. While I try to have my office respond to most calls or emails within a day, I wanted to take my time to analyze this important policy issue and hear what various parties had to say before getting back to you. Please know that aside from this email, I've read through dozens of other emails and letters, as well as many calls to our office, both opposing and supporting a historic designation. I understand the concerns that imposing a designation on the existing structure could impede the free practice of religion. I also understand that preserving the historic character of neighborhood landmarks is important in 21 st-century cities. I have also taken the time to speak with representatives of the diocese and my staff has met with parishioners both in favor and against the designation. This is an issue where I am bound by law to hear both sides, and rule in terms of what I think is both in the best interests of the city, while also protecting the religious rights of the diocese. As such, the City Commission will be hearing from all sides and taking a decision at 3 p.m. tomorrow. I invite you to attend and express your opinion on this issue. Thanks, Ken Russell City of Miami Commissioner Sent from Outlook Mobile On Tue, Feb 23, 2016 at 4:59 PM -0800, "Enrique Saldarriaga" <esaldarriaga44@gmail.com> wrote: Dear Commissioners and Mayor Regalado, I support St Jude Melkite Church. St Jude"s primary significance is religious, respectfully we ask the Commission to respect the Separation of Church and State as our US Constitution guarantees. The Decisions of both The llth Circuit Court and The Third District Court affirmed our Primary Significance as Religious. National and Local ordinances exempt Churches.I am opposed to Historical designation of St Jude Melkite Church as it would increase operating costs threatening the very existence of St Jude Melkite Shrine Church; interfering with the practice of religion and the constitutional separation of Church and State. I appreciate any 25 support you can provide in this matter, as the continual legal fees and disturbances have been going on for years disturbing the peace of the Parish. Again, I support St Jude's and respectfully ask The City of Miami to respect the sanctity of its religious practice. Thank you for considering my, request and for your public service Respectfully, Enrique Saldarriaga 26 Submitted into the public record for items) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk Melendez, Eleazar From: Russell, Ken (Commissioner) Sent: Wednesday, February 24, 2016 9:37 PM To: natalialiviero@hotmail.com Subject: RE: NO Historical Designation for St Jude's Church Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on-02/25/2016, City Clerk Greetings, Thank you for taking the time to write me. I wanted to apologize, first off, on the delay in responding. While I try to have my office respond to most calls or emails within a day, I wanted to take my time to analyze this important policy issue and hear what various parties had to say before getting back to you. Please know that aside from this email, I've read through dozens of other emails and letters, as well as many calls to our office, both opposing and supporting a historic designation. I understand the concerns that imposing a designation on the existing structure could impede the free practice of religion. I also understand that preserving the historic character of neighborhood landmarks is important in 21st-century cities. I have also taken the time to speak with representatives of the diocese and my staff has met with parishioners both in favor and against the designation. This is an issue where I am bound by law to hear both sides, and rule in terms of what I think is both in the best interests of the city, while also protecting the religious rights of the diocese. As such, the City Commission will be hearing from all sides and taking a decision at 3 p.m. tomorrow. I invite you to attend and express your opinion on this issue. Thanks, Ken Russell City of Miami Commissioner Sent from Outlook Mobile On Tue, Feb 23, 2016 at 5:51 PM -0800, "Natalia Liviero" <natalialiviero@hotmail.com> wrote: Dear Mr. Melendez, Commissioners, and Mayor Regalado, I hope this email finds you well. The purpose of this email is to reiterate my opposition for the imposed historical designation on St. Jude Greek Melkite Catholic Church, and I would like my voice, together with that of many others, to be taken into consideration for the upcoming hearing this Thursday February 25th. Yours respectfully, Natalia Liviero From: natalialiviero@hotmail.com To: elmelendez@miamigov.com 27 Subject: RE: NO Historical Designation for St Jude's Church Date: Fri, 29 Jan 2016 00:42:15 -0500 Dear Mr. Melendez, I truly appreciate your message and the efforts of Commissioner Russell to take time to analyze this situation in a reasonable manner; that shows his leadership skills and it is very comforting to know he is in charge. Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk All we ask is our freedom of religion and that our church, which owns the land, can keep its doors opens to all of us as a house of worship; St. Jude is a church, not a museum. Thank you very much and I look forward to the updates. Natalia Liviero From: ElMelendez@miamigov.com To: natalialiviero@hotmail.com Subject: RE: NO Historical Designation for St Jude's Church Date: Fri, 29 Jan 2016 00:37:22 +0000 Ms. Liviero: Thank you for taking the time and energy to write us. We hear you loud and clear. Please know that aside from this email, Commissioner Russell has seen the hundreds of signatures on various petitions for this issue, read through dozens of emails and letters our office has received and handled several calls calling for designation. We understand that preserving the historic character of neighborhood landmarks is important in 21st-century cities. Additionally, as you might know, Commissioner Russell is dedicated to responsible development throughout Miami that takes into account input from neighbors. At the same time, and as you certainly know, there are two sides to every issue. This one is no exception, and Commissioner Russell has read through dozens of emails and letters, as well as many calls to our office, opposing a historic designation. The main argument in opposition, that imposing certain conditions on the existing structure could impede the freepractice of religion, is not something we are going to ignore or discard lightly. It's been the impression from Commissioner Russell, talking to folks on both sides of this dispute, that the debate so far has been unusually and unnecessarily harsh. Perhaps we are wrong, but given the Commissioner is coming in fresh to his position andto this policy matter, we see significant space for finding a meeting of the minds. We don't believe opposing sides should be entrenched on this one as either "pro -designation" or "anti - designation", but think we can all come together on an agreement: one that absolutely protects the historic landmark while also respecting the religious rights of the diocese that occupies the building. Today, the commissioner has requested the historic designation be deferred for a month. Commissioner Russell will then work with the Melkite diocese and various preservationists to find that path moving forward that can satisfy all sides. Stay tuned. Thanks again for reaching out, 28 Eleazar David Melendez Director of Strategy and Communications Office of Commissioner Ken Russell Miami City Hall 3500 Pan American Drive Miami, Florida 33133 Office: 305-250-5335 Mobile: 212-729-6672 Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk From: Natalia Liviero [mailto:natalialiviero@hotmail.com] Sent: Saturday, January 23, 2016 11:53 PM To: Russell, Ken (Commissioner) <krussell@miamigov.com>; Regalado, Tomas (Mayor) <TRegalado@miamigov.com>; Gort, Wifredo (Commissioner) <wgort@miamigov.com>; Suarez, Francis (Commissioner) <fsuarez@miamigov.com>; Hardemon, Keon (Commissioner) <khardemon@miamigov.com>; Carollo, Frank (Commissioner -Office) <FCa rol loOffice @ m iam igov.com> Subject: NO Historical Designation for St Jude's Church January 23, 2016 Dear Commissioners and Mayor Regalado, I worship at St Jude Melkite Church. St Jude"s primary significance is religious, respectfully we ask the Commission to respect the Separation of Church and State as our US Constitution guarantees. The Decisions of both The 11th Circuit Court and The Third District Court affirmed our Primary Significance as Religious. National and Local ordinances exempt Churches. I am opposed to Historical designation of St Jude Melkite Church as it would increase operating costs threatening the very existence of St Jude Melkite Shrine Church; interfering with the practice of religion and the constitutional separation of Church and State. I appreciate any support yo.0 can provide in this matter, as the continual legal fees and disturbances have been going on for years disturbing the peace of the Parish. 29 Again, I visit St Jude's for religious worship and respectfully ask The City of Miami to respect the sanctity of my religious practice. Thank you for considering my request and for your public service. Respectfully, Natalia Liviero Address: 770 Claughton Is. Dr., Apt. # 1108 City: Miami Zip code: 33131 Telephone : 305-586-0620 30 Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk Melendez, Eleazar From: Russell, Ken (Commissioner) Sent: Wednesday, February 24, 2016 9:37 PM To: rolonalfredo@hotmail.com Subject: Re: We are opposed to the Historical Designation of St. Jude Church Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk Greetings, Thank you for taking the time to write me. I wanted to apologize, first off, on the delay in responding. While I try to have my office respond to most calls or emails within a day, I wanted to take my time to analyze this important policy issue and hear what various parties had to say before getting back to you. Please know that aside from this email, I've read through dozens of other emails and letters, as well as many calls to our office, both opposing and supporting a historic designation. I understand the concerns that imposing a designation on the existing structure could impede the free practice of religion. I also understand that preserving the historic character of neighborhood landmarks is important in 21 st-century cities. I have also taken the time to speak with representatives of the diocese and my staff has met with parishioners both in favor and against the designation. This is an issue where I am bound by law to hear both sides, and rule in terms of what I think is both in the best interests of the city, while also protecting the religious rights of the diocese. As such, the City Commission will be hearing from all sides and taking a decision at 3 p.m. tomorrow. I invite you to attend and express your opinion on this issue. Thanks, Ken Russell City of Miami Commissioner Sent from Outlook Mobile On Wed, Feb 24, 2016 at 9:57 AM -0800, "Alfredo Rolon" <rolonalfredo@hotmail.com> wrote: February 24, 2016 Dear Mr. Ken Russell, Good morning! Once again, I would like to respectfully bring to your consideration the very same petition we summited on January 27, 2016 requesting your support in reference of St. Jude Melkite Church. Along with the community of St. Jude, as priest and as a faithful devoted to St. Jude, I am opposed to the Historical designation of that Parish, a place of worship and adoration for the Most Blessed Trinity and an oasis of spirituality. 31 As I manifested in my previous letter, everybody must respect and acknowledge that St Jude's primary significance is religious. We know that the historical designation of St. Jude Melkite Church would increase operating costs threatening the very existence of St Jude Melkite Shrine Church and interfering with the practice of religion and the constitutional separation of Church and State. The Decisions of both The llth Circuit Court and The Third District Court affirmed our Primary Significance as Religious. National and Local ordinances exempt Churches. This is why, united to the community of St. Jude we respectfully have asked the Commission to respect the Separation of Church and State as our US Constitution guarantees. I know that the parishioners of St. Jude Melkite Church as well as all the catholic devoted of St. Jude will appreciate any support you can provide in this matter, as the continual legal fees and disturbances have been going on for years disturbing the peace of the Parish and of the Parishioners'and of all of those like me who go there out of devotion to St. Jude and of respect and love for the Catholic Melkite Rite. As I thank you for considering my request and for your public service, I keep you in my prayers and I also pray that the Sanctity of my religious practice and of those who visit St. Jude Melkite Church to worship the Lord must be respected. Respectfully, Rev. Alfredo A. Rolon-Ortiz 32 Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk Submitted into the public Melendez, Eleazar record for item(s)_PZ.7.- on 02/25/2016, City Clerk From: Russell, Ken (Commissioner) Sent: Wednesday, February 24, 2016 9:36 PM To: clara@freedomconciergeservices.com Subject: Re: Opposed to the designation of historic site Greetings, Thank you for taking the time to write me. I wanted to apologize, first off, on the delay in responding. While I try to have my office respond to most calls or emails within a day, I wanted to take my time to analyze this important policy issue and hear what various parties had to say before getting back to you. Please know that aside from this email, I've read through dozens of other emails and letters, as well as many calls to our office, both opposing and supporting a historic designation. I understand the concerns that imposing a designation on the existing structure could impede the free practice of religion. I also understand that preserving the historic character of neighborhood landmarks is important in 21 st-century cities. I have also taken the time to speak with representatives of the diocese and my staff has met with parishioners both in favor and against the designation. This is an issue where I am bound by law to hear both sides, and rule in terms of what I think is both in the best interests of the city, while also protecting the religious rights of the diocese. As such, the City Commission will be hearing from all sides and taking a decision at 3 -p.m. tomorrow. I invite you to attend and express your opinion on this issue. Thanks, Ken Russell City of Miami Commissioner Sent from Outlook Mobile On Wed, Feb 24, 2016 at 10:33 AM -0800, "Freedom Concierge Services" <clara@freedomconciergeservices.com> wrote: Good afternoon Commissioner Russell and all copied, As a parishioner of St. Jude I am writing to oppose the designation of St. Jude Church as a historic site. This is a religious institution and the City of Miami nor government officials needs to respect our religious freedom. We don not want the interference of the City of Miami in our church. 33 By law, Churches are exempt from historical designation when the primary significance of the church is religious and this is clearly the case of our beloved church. There have been 2 courts of appeals that clearly said that the primary significance of our church is religious Please respect our rights and the separation between religion and government. Sincerely, Clara Serrano St Jude Devotee and Parishioner Sent from Outlook Mobile 34 Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk Melendez, Eleazar • From: Russell, Ken (Commissioner) Sent: Wednesday, February 24, 2016 9:36 PM To: joeymugica@yahoo.com Subject: Re: St. Jude Church Greetings, Thank you for taking the time to write me. Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on Q 25 2016, City Clerk I wanted to apologize, first off, on the delay in responding. While I try to have my office respond to most calls or emails within a day, I wanted to take my time to analyze this important policy issue and hear what various parties had to say before getting back to you. Please know that aside from this email, I've read through dozens of other emails and letters, as well as many calls to our office, both opposing and supporting a historic designation. I understand the concerns that imposing a designation on the existing structure could impede the free practice of religion. I also understand that preserving the historic character of neighborhood landmarks is important in 21 st-century cities. I have also taken the time to speak with representatives of the diocese and my staff has met with parishioners both in favor and against the designation. This is an issue where I am bound by law to hear both sides, and rule in terms of what I think is both in the best interests of the city, while also protecting the religious rights of the diocese. As such, the City Commission will be hearing from all sides and taking a decision at 3 p.m. tomorrow. I invite you to attend and express your opinion on this issue. Thanks, Ken Russell City of Miami Commissioner Sent from Outlook Mobile On Wed, Feb 24, 2016 at 11:02 AM -0800, "JOSEPH MUGICA" <joevmugica(2i yahoo.com> wrote: Good afternoon Commissioner Russell and all copied, As a parishioner of St. Jude I am writing to oppose the designation of St. Jude Church as a historic site. This is a religious institution and the City of Miami nor government officials needs to respect our religious freedom. We don not want the interference of the City of Miami in our church. By law, Churches are exempt from historical designation when the primary significance of the church is religious and this is clearly the case of our beloved church. There have been 2 courts of appeals that clearly said that the primary significance of our church is religious _ Please respect our rights and the separation between religion and government. 35 Sincerely, Clara Serrano St Jude Devotee and Parishioner Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk 36 Melendez, Eleazar From: Russell, Ken (Commissioner) Sent: Wednesday, February 24, 2016 9:35 PM To: marilenavazquez@att.net Subject: Re: St. Jude Church in Brickell Ave. Greetings, Thank you for taking the time to write me. Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk I wanted to apologize, first off, on the delay in responding. While I try to have my office respond to most calls or emails within a day, I wanted to take my time to analyze this important policy issue and hear what various parties had to say before getting back to you. Please know that aside from this email, I've read through dozens of other emails and letters, as well as many calls to our office, both opposing and supporting a historic designation. I understand the concerns that imposing a designation on the existing structure could impede the free practice of religion. I also understand that preserving the historic character of neighborhood landmarks is important in 21 st-century cities. I have also taken the time to speak with representatives of the diocese and my staff has met with parishioners both in favor and against the designation. This is an issue where I am bound by law to hear both sides, and rule in terms of what I think is both in the best interests of the city, while also protecting the religious rights of the diocese. As such, the City Commission will be hearing from all sides and taking a decision at 3 p.m. tomorrow. I invite you to attend and express your opinion on this issue. Thanks, Ken Russell City of Miami Commissioner Sent from Outlook Mobile On Wed, Feb 24, 2016 at 1:28 PM -0800, "marilena vazquez" <marilenavazquez@att.net> wrote: Dear Sir: Please be advised that we are opposed to the historic designation of St. Jude Church in Brickell Ave. The church is necessary in the neighborhood for people that live in the area and for others that work in the area and go at lunch time or after work as it is the only church around. We do not want another building in the area, we need the church besides with the historic designation the administration of the church will not be able to afford all the expenses. Thanks, 37 Marilena Vazquez. Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk 38 Melendez, Eleazar From: Sent: To: Subject: Greetings, Russell, Ken (Commissioner) Wednesday, February 24, 2016 9:35 PM alex@chirife.org Re: NO Historical Designation for St Jude's Church Thank you for taking the time to write me. Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk I wanted to apologize, first off, on the delay in responding. While I try to have my office respond to most calls or emails within a day, I wanted to take my time to analyze this important policy issue and hear what various parties had to say before getting back to you. Please know that aside from this email, I've read through dozens of other emails and letters, as well as many calls to our office, both opposing and supporting a historic designation. I understand the concerns that imposing a designation on the existing structure could impede the free practice of religion. I also understand that preserving the historic character of neighborhood landmarks is important in 21 st-century cities. I have also taken the time to speak with representatives of the diocese and my staff has met with parishioners both in favor and against the designation. This is an issue where I am bound by law to hear both sides, and rule in terms of what I think is both in the best interests of the city, while also protecting the religious rights of the diocese. As such, the City Commission will be hearing from all sides and taking a decision at 3 p.m. tomorrow. I invite you to attend and express your opinion on this issue. Thanks, Ken_Russell City of Miami Commissioner Sent from Outlook Mobile On Wed, Feb 24, 2016 at 3:00 PM -0800, "alex@chirife.org" <alex@chirife.org> wrote: Dear Commissioners and Mayor Regalado, I worship at St Jude Melkite Church. St Jude"s primary significance is religious, respectfully we ask the Commission to respect the Separation of Church and State as our US Constitution guarantees. The Decisions of both The 1 lth Circuit Court and The Third District Court affirmed our Primary Significance as Religious. National and Local ordinances exempt Churches. 39 I am opposed to Historical designation of St Jude Melkite Church as it would increase operating costs threatening the very existence of St Jude Melkite Shrine Church; interfering with the practice of religion and the constitutional separation of Church and State. I appreciate any support you can provide in this matter, as the continual legal fees and disturbances have been going on for years disturbing the peace of the Parish. Again, I visit St Jude's for religious worship and respectfully ask The City of Miami to respect the sanctity of my religious practice. Thank you for considering my request and for your public service Respectfully, Alejandro Chirife 6410 SW 28 Street Miami, FL 33155 40 Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk Melendez, Eleazar From: Russell, Ken (Commissioner) Sent: Wednesday, February 24, 2016 9:34 PM To: alexsnegrete@yahoo.com Subject: Re: No to Imposed Historic Designation Greetings, Thank you for taking the time to write me. Submitted into the public record_ for item(s)=PZ.7-= -- on 02/25/2016, City Clerk I wanted to apologize, first off, on the delay in responding. While I try to have my office respond to most calls or emails within a day, I wanted to take my time to analyze this important policy issue and hear what various parties had to say before getting back to you. Please know that aside from this email, I've read through dozens of other emails and letters, as well as many calls to our office, both opposing and supporting a historic designation. I understand the concerns that imposing a designation on the existing structure could impede the free practice of religion. I also understand that preserving the historic character of neighborhood landmarks is important in 21 st-century cities. I have also taken the time to speak with representatives of the diocese and my staff has met with parishioners both in favor and against the designation. This is an issue where I am bound by law to hear both sides, and rule in terms of what I think is both in the best interests of the city, while also protecting the religious rights of the diocese. As such, the City Commission will be hearing from all sides and taking a decision at 3 p.m. tomorrow. I invite you to attend and express your opinion on this issue. Thanks, Ken Russell City of Miami Commissioner Sent from Outlook Mobile On Wed, Feb 24, 2016 at 6:01 PM -0800, "Alejandro S. Negrete" <alexsnegrete@yahoo.com> wrote: Dear Commissioners and Mayor Regalado, I worship at St Jude Melkite Church. St Jude"s primary significance is religious, respectfully we ask the Commission to respect the Separation of Church and State as our US Constitution guarantees. 41 The Decisions of both The 11th Circuit Court and The Third District Court affirmed our Primary Significance as Religious. National and Local ordinances exempt Churches. am opposed to Historical designation of St Jude Melkite Church as it would increase operating costs threatening the very existence of St Jude Melkite Shrine Church; interfering with the practice of religion and the constitutional separation of Church and State. I appreciate any support you can provide in this matter, as the continual legal fees and disturbances have been going on for years disturbing the peace of the Parish. Again, I visit St Jude's for religious worship and respectfully ask The City of Miami to respect the sanctity of my religious practice. Thank you for considering my request and for your public service Respectfully, Alexs Negrete 42 Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on g21.25120.1, City Clerk Melendez, Eleazar From: Russell, Ken (Commissioner) Sent: Wednesday, February 24, 2016 9:34 PM To: alexsmachim@yahoo.com Subject: Re: Greetings, Thank you for taking the time to write me. Submitted into the public - record _for-itern(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk I wanted to apologize, first off, on the delay in responding. While I try to have my office respond to most calls or emails within a day, I wanted to take my time to analyze this important policy issue and hear what various parties had to say before getting back to you. Please know that aside from this email, I've read through dozens of other emails and letters, as well as many calls to our office, both opposing and supporting a historic designation. I understand the concerns that imposing a designation on the existing structure could impede the free practice of religion. I also understand that preserving the historic character of neighborhood landmarks is important in 21 st-century cities. I have also taken the time to speak with representatives of the diocese and my staff has met with parishioners both in favor and against the designation. This is an issue where I am bound by law to hear both sides, and rule in terms of what I think is both in the best interests of the city, while also protecting the religious rights of the diocese. As such, the City Commission will be hearing from all sides and taking a decision at 3 p.m. tomorrow. I invite you to attend and express your opinion on this issue. Thanks, Ken Russell City of Miami Commissioner Sent from Outlook Mobile On Wed, Feb 24, 2016 at 6:06 PM -0800, "Alex Machim" <alexsmachim@yahoo.com> wrote: Dear Commissioners and Mayor Regalado, worship at St Jude Melkite Church. St Jude"s primary significance is religious, respectfully we ask the Commission to respect the Separation of Church and State as our US Constitution guarantees. 43 The Decisions of both The 11th Circuit Court and The Third District Court affirmed our Primary Significance as Religious. National and Local ordinances exempt Churches. I am opposed to Historical designation of St Jude Melkite Church as it would increase operating costs threatening the very existence of St Jude Melkite Shrine Church; interfering with the practice of religion and the constitutional separation of Church and State. appreciate any support you can provide in this matter, as the continual legal fees and disturbances have been going on for years disturbing the peace of the Parish. Again, I visit St Jude's for religious worship and respectfully ask The City of Miami to respect the sanctity of my religious practice. Thank you for considering my request and for your public service Respectfully, Alita Machim 44 Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk Melendez, Eleazar From: , Melendez, Eleazar Sent: Tuesday, February 09, 2016 9:09 PM To: 'Arva Parks' Subject: . RE: St, Jude Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on-02/25/2016; City Clerk Mrs. Parks, Funnily enough, the commissioner mentioned you today when we were driving through South Miami Avenue. We'll be arranging on or two "town hall" -style discussions later this month. I'd rather have everyone express their views there. Normally I would have no problem giving you a meeting. However in this particular issue, with litigation involved and passions running so high, we don't want to open ourselves up to being accused of unfairly listening to one side more than the other. Thanks, Eleazar David Melendez Chief of Staff Office of Commissioner Ken Russell Miami City Hall 3500 Pan American Drive Miami, Florida 33133 Office: 305-250-5335 Mobile: 212-729-6672 From: Arva Parks [mailto:arvamiami@bellsouth.net] Sent: Monday, February 08, 2016 5:04 PM To: Melendez, Eleazar <ElMelendez@miamigov.com> Subject: RE: St, Jude Would it be possible for me to set up a time to talk to the Commissioner? From: Melendez, Eleazar [mailto:ElMelendez@miamigov.com] Sent: Thursday, January 28, 2016 5:41 PM To: Arva Parks Subject: RE: St, Jude Ms. Parks: Thank you for taking the time and energy to write us. We hear you loud and clear. Please know that aside from this email, Commissioner Russell has seen the hundreds of signatures on various petitions for this issue, read through dozens 1 of emails and letters and handled several calls calling for designation. We understand that preserving the historic character of neighborhood landmarks is important in 21st-century cities. Additionally, as you might know, Commissioner Russell is dedicated to responsible development throughout Miami that takes into account input from neighbors. At the same time, and as you certainly know, there are two sides to every issue. This one is no exception, and Commissioner Russell has read through dozens of emails and letters, as well as many calls to our office, opposing a historic designation. The main argument in opposition, that imposing certain conditions on the existing structure could impede the free practice of religion, is not something we are going to ignore or discard lightly. It's been the impression from Commissioner Russell, talking to folks on both sides of this dispute, that the debate so far has been unusually and unnecessarily harsh. Perhaps we are wrong, but given the Commissioner is coming in fresh to his position and to this policy matter, we see significant space for finding a meeting of the minds. We don't believe opposing sides should be entrenched on this one as either "pro -designation" or "anti -designation", but think we can all come together on an agreement: one that absolutely protects the historic landmark while also respecting the religious rights of the diocese that occupies the building. Today, the commissioner will be requesting the historic designation be deferred for a month. Commissioner Russell will then work with the Melkite diocese and various preservationists to find that path moving forward that can satisfy all sides. Stay tuned. Thanks again for reaching out, Eleazar David Melendez Director of Strategy and Communications Office of Commissioner Ken Russell AAiami City Hall 3500 Pan American Drive Miami, Florida 33133 Office: 305-250-5335 Mobile: 212-729-6672 From: Arva Parks fmailto:arvamiamk bellsouth.net] Sent: Wednesday, January 27, 2016 10:20 PM To: ken@kenrussellmiami.com; Russell, Ken (Commissioner) <krussell@miamigov.com> Subject: St, Jude Dear Ken: I continue to be so happy you are on the Commission. Thanks for your understanding of what matters. I understand you are having a press conference on St. Jude tomorrow. I will be there. I hope you will be in favor of historic designation. The church clearly meets the criteria which is what matters. There are many other churches designated in Miami. One of my favorites is the former Bryan Methodist Church on Main Highway in Coconut Grove. It is now an Orthodox Jewish Synagogue. That is a wonderful preservation success story. I am so tired of people from out of town telling us what matters. St. Jude has had three different denominations in the same building. That is a great story in itself. We also need to educate everyone on the value of being designated. If you have any questions that I can help you with please call me at 305 854-8087. Thanks for your leadership. Arva 2 Submitted into the public record for item(s) PZ.7 on 02/25/2016, City Clerk