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HomeMy WebLinkAboutSEOPW CRA 2017-02-27 MinutesCity of Miami 819NW2ndAve 3rd Floor Miami, FL 33136 http://miamicra.com Meeting Minutes Monday, February 27, 2017 5:00 PM Camillus House 1603 N.W. 7th Ave., Bldg. B Miami, FL 33136 SEOPW Community Redevelopment Agency Keon Hardemon, Chair Wifredo Gort, Vice Chair Ken Russell, Board Member, District Two Frank Carollo, Board Member, District Three Francis Suarez, Board Member, District Four SEOPW CRA OFFICE ADDRESS: 819 NW 2ND AVE, 3RD FLOOR MIAMI FL 33136 Phone: (305) 679-6800, Fax (305) 679-6835 www.miamicra.com Southeast Overtown/Park West CRA Meeting Minutes February 27, 2017 CALL TO ORDER Present: Chair Hardemon, Vice Chair Gort, Commissioner Russell and Commissioner Suarez Absent: Commissioner Carollo On the 27th day of February 2017, the Board of Commissioners of the Southeast Overtown/Park West Community Redevelopment Agency of the City of Miami met in regular session at Camillus House, 1603 Northwest 7th Avenue, Miami, Florida. The meeting was called to order by Chair Hardemon at 5: 06p.m., and was adjourned at 6:55 p.m. Note for the Record: Commissioner Russell entered the meeting at 5:17 p.m. ALSO PRESENT: Clarence E. Woods, Executive Director, CRA Renee A. Jadusingh, Staff Counsel, CRA William Bloom, Special Counsel, CRA Rafael Suarez -Rivas, Assistant City Attorney, Supervisor Todd B. Hannon, Clerk of the Board APPROVING THE MINUTES OF THE FOLLOWING MEETINGS: PRESENTATIONS 1. CRA PRESENTATION 1852 PRESENTATION BY FDOT ON THE 1-395 RECONSTRUCTION PROJECT. PUBLIC COMMENTS MOTION TO: RESULT: No Action NO ACTION TAKEN Chair Hardemon: Good evening, everyone. Welcome to the February 27, 2017 meeting of the Miami Southeast Overtown/Park West Community Redevelopment Agency. We appreciate you being here. We're going to begin our meeting at this time. And so, we'll start by allowing everyone an opportunity to speak for public comment. And so, at this time, I would invite any of you who want to speak on any of the items that's on the agenda today, so any of the items, RE.1 through RE.10, this is your opportunity to speak on that item. When you come to the lectern, say your name, your address, and which item it is that you're speaking about. You have about two minutes to address this body. So I'll open up the floor now for public comment. Now, understand, if you don't come for public comment at this time, when I close public comment, we'll move forward with the meeting, and we will have concluded the public comment section of this agenda. You're recognized, sir. SEOPW CRA Page 2 Printed on 5/8/2017 Southeast Overtown/Park West CRA Meeting Minutes February 27, 2017 Neil Hall: Good afternoon. My name is Neil Hall, 445 Northwest 88th Terrace, Miami, Florida. I come before you to speak about the idea of how do we, as professional -- design professionals get an opportunity to work in this historic space called Overtown? I've been an architect here for the last 30 years, and during that period, I've not only been the president of the Miami AIA (American Institute of Architects), but also the National Organization of Minority Architects. And though I've spent the last 15 years working in Overtown, giving whatever service that is required, as pro bono, I believe that my reputation as a pro bono architect has surpassed myself such that after 15 years, we have not had an opportunity to do any work, architecturally or planning -wise, in this community. One of the things that is very, very important to me is that we need to make sure that design professionals, such as minority architects, get an opportunity to participate. I also sit on the Zoning -- Urban Review Board, where I see a number of major developments happening in and around Miami -Dade, and in the City of Miami; and yet, we do not see any black architects. They leave our State, they leave our County, and I think it's imperative that this Commission look at the design professionals; and also, with respect -- Is that the signal for me to shut up? I will conclude that it's important that this Commission recognize the importance of design professionals in our community, because they're leaving, and we need to retain them. Thank you. Chair Hardemon: Thank you very much. Is there anyone else? Shoshana Lincoln: Good afternoon, Board. Reverend Lincoln from 210 Northwest 16th Street, People Helping People Self Reliance, Inc. Board, we do have a building in 210 Northwest 16th Street, and a grant was executed now over two years for six apartments. The contractor that Clarence have asked me to take has been dragging his feet on that building, so, Commissioner Hardemon and the rest of these people here, they all know. I'm sending email constantly to get the building done, and it's not being done. The County have called me today and talked to me that -- Okay, I called the CRA (Community Redevelopment Agency). They tell me the building is moving. The attorney and Brian told me November 217 -- 216 [sic] that we going to have a roof window and doors, and up to this month, February, they had -- don't have the roof no doors, some windows. My question is why they're like -- why they're dragging their feet on the building? When I do request a timeframe, I'm not getting one. And I kindly ask that if Clarence can answer that question for me, and the Board would listen. Chair Hardemon: He'll answer the question, but not at this time. I'm going to allow other people to put their public comment in, and then he'll address your question at the end of public comment. Ms. Lincoln: Say that again. Chair Hardemon: I said that we will allow him to answer the question; however, we're going to finish public comment section first. Once we finish public comment, he'll answer your question on the microphone. Ms. Lincoln: I don't follow. Chair Hardemon: Okay. Is there any other question that you have? Ms. Lincoln: No. Chair Hardemon: Okay. We'll have someone answer your question for you. Thank you so very much. Ms. Lincoln: But my two minutes is not up. I have to leave. Just answer my -- just tell me about the timeframe, when I'm going to get it, because you have been promising. SEOPW CRA Page 3 Printed on 5/8/2017 Southeast Overtown/Park West CRA Meeting Minutes February 27, 2017 Chair Hardemon: Do you know the timeframe in which she's going to get the --? Clarence Woods, III (Executive Director, Southeast Overtown/Park West Community Redevelopment Agency): Should be -- well, the windows and doors are up. Ms. Lincoln: No; it's not finished. Chair Hardemon: So this is not the time for you to argue with him. You asked him for an answer and he's giving you an answer. What -- Your building, which has been in a condition that is below the standard of living, has been -- Ms. Lincoln: Objection, Commissioner. Chair Hardemon: Let me finish. Ms. Lincoln: I -- can't you see you're not the contractor? Chair Hardemon: Hear what I'm saying to you. Ms. Lincoln: I'm talking to Clarence. Chair Hardemon: Hear what I'm saying to you. Hear what I'm saying to you. Clarence is not the Chairman of the Board. Clarence doesn't decide who speaks and who doesn't speak. He doesn't limit the conversation between you and I. That's what my role is. And what I'm explaining to you is that the CRA has put a significant amount of taxpayer dollars into your building to make it something that we -- Ms. Lincoln: But time constraint, Commissioner. Chair Hardemon: Listen to what I'm saying to you. Ms. Lincoln: Get to the point. I need timeframe. Chair Hardemon: Your time is up. Ms. Lincoln: That's all. Chair Hardemon: Your time is up. Ms. Lincoln: It's now over two year the money was executed. Chair Hardemon: Your time is concluded. Can you please step away from the lectern, please? Please. Ms. Lincoln: Am I going to have the timeframe? Chair Hardemon: Please step away from the lectern. Ms. Lincoln: Clarence? They have been doing this to me for two years. Chair Hardemon: Can you please step away from the lectern? You're now interrupting the meeting. Thank you. Hello, sir. Russell Benedetto: Good afternoon, everybody. My name is Russell Benedetto. I live at 3301 Northeast 5th Avenue, Miami. I've been in Florida since 1985. I've lived in Miami for the past four years, and I -- it's exciting to see what's happening, and I'm here to talk to you about item number 1. The chefs reputation is well known, and to bring this kind SEOPW CRA Page 4 Printed on 5/8/2017 Southeast Overtown/Park West CRA Meeting Minutes February 27, 2017 of business, especially to an area like Overtown, I think it's an incredible opportunity for the community, jobs, and I just want to commend the Board on this even being proposed, and I hope it goes through. Thank you. Chair Hardemon: Thank you very much, sir. Is there anyone else? Derek Fleming: Good afternoon, Commissioner. I am -- my name is Derek Fleming. I'm here to represent the first item on the agenda. My partner, Marcus Samuelsson and I have applied for an RFQ (Request for Qualifications), which we were blessed to be successful in having you all approve a little over a year ago, and we are really excited that this project has moved forward for us to bring an economic development hospitality engine to the Overtown area. Over this time, since the RFQ was voted on and approved, I and my -- Marcus and myself have come to Overtown to do a number of visits and research and meet with a number of groups and organizations that are present here in the Overtown community, and these groups we will be partnering with as part of our economic development program for opening the facility here in Overtown. We have a restaurant in Harlem, New York, which is in a community that is very similar to Overtown in terms of the demographic and the economic profile, and we really look forward to bringing the same amount of energy and vigor and exposure, and jobs to this neighborhood, this community; that we worked so hard to do in Harlem. We also look forward to working closely with the CRA and its program for revitalizing the area, and again, engaging with the community, engaging with the residents here and providing jobs, providing training, and overall positive movement forward for the Overtown community. Thank you so much, Commissioner. Chair Hardemon: Thank you very much. Catrenia Banks: Good afternoon. My name is Catrenia Banks. I live in the Overtown area in 1232 Northwest 1st Place in Overtown. I was here -- a lot of people are asking -- and I'm a small business owner, as well -- we're asking for more employment for guy -- for people that's just getting out of prison; mothers that's on welfare, they're ready for change and ready to get back to work, as well. But a lot of people won't hire them, especially some of the young ladies have bad backgrounds, and we're -- we want to look - - I'm asking here to ask in place of them, can someone please look into more expunging of background? And some people want change and, you know, a better opportunity and growth, and I'm here in behalf of speaking of them. Again, my name is Catrenia Banks. Thank you. Chair Hardemon: Thank you very much. Eric Knowles: Good afternoon, Mr. Chairman and Board. My name is Eric Knowles. I'm the president and CEO (Chief Executive Officer) of the Miami -Dade Chamber of Commerce, representing over 300 members here in Miami -Dade County and South Florida. I'm here to speak on behalf of the Marcus Samuelsson Project in Overtown. Many of us traveled to New York, to Harlem. We know that the Red Rooster is one of the spots to go to when you're in New York. And when you think about people who travel all over the world, they go to Harlem, they go to Red Rooster. We want people who travel all over the world, when they come to Overtown, they go to the Red Rooster and the many other developments that will take place in Overtown, and it will be created from the energy and the emphasis of this development. Thank you. Chair Hardemon: Thank you very much, sir. Ashia Muhammad: Hello. My name is Ashia Muhammad. I actually participated in the hospitality class that they had in Overtown; I'm a graduate of it. But my question is, is it guaranteed to get jobs for people who have barriers? Because that is the problem. People want to have a change in they life. They want to do something. They want to feel SEOPW CRA Page 5 Printed on 5/8/2017 Southeast Overtown/Park West CRA Meeting Minutes February 27, 2017 a part of the community, help the community, but it's holding you back, because no one wants to hire you with a background. So if you have a class or something, we want to know, is it guaranteed? Because I actually went to a hotel from experience, and I mean, I -- the only reason I got hired is because Mr. Joseph. He went down there. He physically went in, spoke up on my behalf and I had the job. But now, it's a problem, because they want bilingual. So we just want to know, where is it going to open up more jobs for us, for people with barriers? Thank you. Chair Hardemon: Thank you very much. Daren Davis: Good evening. My name is Daren Davis. I'm a lieutenant for the City of Miami Fire Department for 23 years, and I just wanted to speak of my experience with the CRA. I took my Fire Explorers -- I'm also an adult advisor for the Fire Explorers. I took them to a seminar at the Overtown Youth Center, "Save Our Sons," and one of the speakers was talking about giving opportunities to people who had records. So I was interested in that, because I'm interested in starting a mentorship, and I knew that at some point, I may come across youth that may need that type of help. So I asked the gentleman for his card, and it was Nate -- the young lady just spoke, Nathaniel Joseph -- and I sent someone to him, someone that I knew, and they did get placed. They had a record, and dealing with Nate, they did get a job. So it's positive and it's working, and that's my experience with that. Chair Hardemon: Thank you very much, sir. Thank you. Nate, how many people you paid to say good things about you? In all seriousness, Nate does a great job. That's -- I call on Nate, so, yeah. Wendi Walsh: Good afternoon, Mr. Chairman and Board. My name is Wendi Walsh. I live at 152 Northeast 89th Street. I am here today to speak in favor of item 10. I am the principal officer for Unite Here Local 355. We are the hospitality workers here in -- hospitality workers union here in South Florida. We are very excited to partner with HEAT (Hospitality Employees Advancement and Training Program), Inc., which is the hospitality training center that you're considering today. We've run very successful training programs throughout North America in cities like Las Vegas, Boston, Toronto, Los Angeles, which I think you'll hear more about later, and we're very excited to bring this to Miami. The need for hospitality training in Miami is tremendous. Right now, many of the hotels hire foreign workers on temporary visas, because they say they cannot find qualified high-level cooks and servers here in South Florida. The need for training outnumbers the supply of workers. The key to our program is our partnership with the employers, some of whom you'll hear in a few minutes. These partnerships allow the employers to define very specific training needs, and through the training center, we can meet those standards and expectations, which will increase the likelihood that workers will get jobs. They will contribute financially to the program on an ongoing and consistent basis, and make a commitment to give special consideration to applicants who are certified through the training program. And to the point that the young woman just raised a minute ago, we need to work with our employers to make sure that people who may have past histories that might prevent them from getting a job actually get consideration, which we can do through our collective bargaining agreement. We're currently working with Levy Restaurants at Marlins Stadium, as they go through these background checks, heading into the new baseball season, to make sure we can protect the jobs of good employees who have had challenging pasts. We're very committed to this community. We're excited to move forward with this program, and we appreciate your consideration. Chair Hardemon: Thank you very much. And I didn't see Commissioner Russell come in, so I just want to acknowledge his presence. We started the meeting with quorum, of course, with Commissioner Gort, Commissioner Suarez; and myself as Chairman. You're recognized, sir. Next. SEOPW CRA Page 6 Printed on 5/8/2017 Southeast Overtown/Park West CRA Meeting Minutes February 27, 2017 Elie Philippe: Good evening, Commissioner and fellow members of the Board. My name is Elie Philippe. I live at 325 Northwest 33rd Street. I'm here tonight to speak in favor of item 10, the Hospitality Employees Advancement and Training Program, also known as HEAT. I work as a catering server at the Marlins Stadium for Levy Restaurants. I've worked there for five -- going on six seasons as of right now. Before I began work at Levy, I had a hard time finding work. It was impossible to find a job anywhere, and I couldn't find a job that could help me pay my bills. This is how many of the people in the community feel every day. We want work, but are often told we don't have the skills or we don't have -- or that we're not, you know, what they're looking for, and that's a very big deterrent when it comes down to us going out there to try to find a job. Overtown needs more training and job opportunities. We need investments in our residents and a pipeline to good jobs. Tourism is where many of Miami's largest employers are, but, unfortunately, those jobs aren't often available to our residents. We need to support efforts to eliminate barriers to employment for our community. Sometimes folks can't get a job because of past criminal history; sometimes they can't get a job because they don't have the training that's required. Through a training center, with the help of the union, we can get those kinds of good jobs. I'm glad that my company and Levy Restaurants at Marlins Stadium has decided to be a partner in this. There have been some great improvements in Overtown. It's time for us to step up and get jobs for our residents. I urge you all to support HEAT in getting our residents the training that we need. Thank you. Chair Hardemon: Thank you very much, sir. You're recognized, sir. Louis Morga: Hello. My name is Lou Morga. I'm a regional manager for Levy Restaurants. So the past two folks, I just want to echo what they said and the importance of supporting item number 10. We partnered with Unite Here in both the LA (Los Angeles) and DC (District of Columbia) markets in something exactly like this. It's really done wonders for training hospitality staff that have the skills that we need to really run a successful business in Miami. And we also -- I just want to repeat what Wendi said -- will be committing to those training funds, as well, over the next -- I don't know how many years -- to really make sure that we have the right folks trained for the jobs that we need for the future in the City. Thank you. Chair Hardemon: Thank you very much, sir. Rasheeda Williams: Good afternoon. My name is Rasheeda Williams. I'm a resident of 1744 Northwest 1st Court. Okay, I live in the Overtown area; and as well, as like everybody else speaking on jobs, that it's not enough employment for everyone. You know, I'm a single mother with kid, bills, you know, and I need a job, like yesterday. And like everybody else speaking on Mr. Nate, been great at helping everybody else find jobs, and going to meetings and everything. He's been a great, great person to all of us. Chair Hardemon: Thank you very much. You're recognized, sir. Charles Kimble: Hello, Your Honor. And my name is Charles Kimble. I would like to say thank you for the programs that you introduced. I'm here representing Blue Shirts. I just would like to request just two requests. One is that the program -- like it be mandated for the program participants to remain for 12 months, as the contract states, instead of having someone who comes in and replace someone who probably been on for five months, and then those people might only stay for two months, and something like that there. And the other thing I would like to request is that the program be given some type of you know, some type of opening to where they can have some type of contacts to give to the people -- participants that are there so that they would be able to help them move forward once their program time has ended, and, you know, just a little more help, because, right now, after you finish the program, it's -- you know, it's really not that much SEOPW CRA Page 7 Printed on 5/8/2017 Southeast Overtown/Park West CRA Meeting Minutes February 27, 2017 help that you have. I mean, they offer somewhere, you know, they give most of the people the same opportunity to go to the same job team, so you got eight people going to the same job place for a opportunity, which only one person can get. So if it was a opportunity where it was a vast amount of opportunities for the participants so that when they do leave the program that they have the opportunity to move forward. But my -- like I say, my main object is that the people that are presently on the program, and for the future, that they be allowed to -- that it be mandated that they participate in the program for 12 months, as stated on the contract. Thank you. Chair Hardemon: Thank you. Nicole Gates: Good evening. Whoo. Commissioner and Board, my name is Nicole Gates, and I reside at 1980 Northwest 3rd Avenue. I am also the president and CEO of Overtown Media, a boutique marketing and PR (public relations) firm here locally; as well as the co-owner of the new Greenhouse Grill Restaurant, located at 13 -- Applause Chair Hardemon: Everybody, let's not clap, so we can hear. Ms. Gates: "Order in the Court." Is that how you say it, Commissioner? Chair Hardemon: Something like that. Ms. Gates: Okay. All right. Thank you, Suzanne. I'm here to speak on the first referendum, and that is bringing in Chef Marcus Samuelsson into the community. I am in so -- just over -ecstatic about supporting this for a couple of reasons. My agency was able to secure Chef Samuelsson to come in last year as the celebrity chef for the Miami Gardens Wine and Food Experience, and what he brought -- just his presence alone was amazing. And to know that he is actually going to come into the community where we own a home and where we own two businesses, that's how you represent -- two businesses, and we own a home. I think it's amazing that he's coming into this community. The job creation, the amount of business and the type of traffic, and the type of audience that Marcus will bring into the community will only benefit our restaurant, as well, because when he overflows, they're going to need some place to go. Hello. And I want them to come over and see us. So Marcus Samuelsson, not only is he a gentleman of quality character, I actually had the opportunity to spend a lot of quality time with him while he was here in November. But just the teaching aspect of the skill of restaurant and hospitality, the style and class; and again, the type of audience that he is going to bring into this community is priceless. I'm so in favor, I'm so in support, and I cannot wait to be a part of the movement that welcomes him to Overtown. Thank you. Chair Hardemon: Thank you very much. Gabriel Castrillon: Good evening, Commissioner and Board. My name is Gabriel Castrillon, and I manage the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Miami downtown. I'm here to support Resolution Number 10 and support Unite Here for the wonderful venue that they're trying to achieve with this resolution. Creating training to keep the jobs in this community is important. We in the Hyatt Company are willing to support Unite Here in the future to continue to fund this training for citizens of this community. Board Member Suarez: Battery, maybe? Unidentified Speaker: Microphone failure. Board Member Suarez: Battery? SEOPW CRA Page 8 Printed on 5/8/2017 Southeast Overtown/Park West CRA Meeting Minutes February 27, 2017 Mr. Castrillon: In the essence of time, Resolution Number 10, supporting Unite Here -- there we are; we're back. That's all right. So the training facility that they're talking about is going to give the possibility of a lot of the citizens of this community to obtain some training to be able to qualms for jobs in the hospitality industry; that is why Unite Here and Hyatt are partnering to bring the training necessary to provide the jobs to the citizens of the community, so thank you for listening to us. This is very important for all of us. Thank you. Chair Hardemon: Thank you very much. Tomas Vago: Good afternoon, Commissioner and Board. I'm Tomas Vago. I'm the hotel manager at the Diplomat Beach Resort, and I can tell you by experience that we went through a hundred -million -dollar renovation, and we opened pretty much 10 new restaurants in the hotel, and we have struggled; we have struggled to find qualified culinarian, bartenders and servers for our facility. There's over 200 shops in the hotel which opened up. And actually, we in our ownership find the needs to invest in this facility, and we do it, as well, in order to develop something special. When you open a celebrity -type restaurant, it is very, very difficult to meet those high standards, and that's why we support number 10; and we believe that this facility, with our support and with our investment of time and training, will develop something better for all of the hotels and restaurants. Thank you. Chair Hardemon: Thank you. Mario Yanez: Hello? Okay, good afternoon. I'm Mario Yanez. I represent Earth Learning. We run a program at 1121 Northwest 3rd Avenue called Overtown Food Works and we're very involved with Marcus Samuelsson Group, and we're here to support them. We believe that food and urban agriculture, and everything that comes with it will be a positive transformation for Overtown, and bring a dynamic economy. Thank you very much. Lashanda Johnson: Good afternoon. My name is Lashanda Johnson. I'm -- Chair Hardemon: Pull the microphone down. Ms. Johnson: Good afternoon. My name is Lashanda Johnson. I'm a resident of 1447 Northwest 3rd Avenue. Chair Hardemon: Can everyone watch their conversations in the background? It's very difficult to hear her when everyone's speaking. Ms. Johnson: Yes. I am talking on -- I just finished working with the Blue Shirt. And normally, you're supposed to get a job, and we haven't have no job yet. And I'm a single mother, and I'm trying my best to make sure I keep a roof over my kids them head, so I'm trying to see what can be done about that. Chair Hardemon: Okay. Thank you very much, ma'am. Ms. Johnson: Thank you. Alice Moss: Hello. My name is Alice Moss. I'm from 219 Northwest 3rd Avenue. I'm here today to talk about the hospitality. I completed the program and everything. I went to all the job fairs. They say I was going to get a job in Overtown. I haven't got a job yet. I got background, but now I'm six years clean, trying to start my life all over again for a second chance, hoping that there'll be doors open for me, but seems like it's nothing coming through. But thank God that I do got a Burger King job. It's not paying much, but it's a job. And I'm thankful, Nathaniel Johnson. I call him every day and ask him can SEOPW CRA Page 9 Printed on 5/8/2017 Southeast Overtown/Park West CRA Meeting Minutes February 27, 2017 he help me, and he have did a good job for me. He put me on the Blue Shirt, but it was only for a year, and I don't think that's right. We are working hard out there on the Blue Shirt. We should be able to stay permanent. You say it's for Overtown. We need help fast. Thank you. Keith West: Good afternoon, everybody. My name is Keith West. I'm currently at the mission right about now, but in 2015, I did work with the Blue Shirts, and at the same time, I took the time out to go to the hospitality class over at Greater Bethel Church, I think that was, but the class was in Hialeah when -- and I completed the class and everything, got the award, certificate, and I didn't get no job; and the same thing with working with the Blue Shirts. They said they was going to -- went to all the job fairs and everything, and it was no job given to me. It's been just -- right now, I'm currently -- right now I'm working with the DDA (Downtown Development Authority) downtown. It's the same thing like the Blue Shirts, but I'm working with them; it's less money, but it's a job. And my kids are grown, true enough; and I did mess up, but that was a long time ago. I went to prison one time, and that was over 30-something years ago, but that's totally, totally different. I'm a totally different man now. But only thing I'm saying, that we need jobs in Overtown for the people Overtown, because you got a lot of people in Overtown that they -- it's hard for us. The moms, the dads and some of the young girls who -- they need the help. We need the help. If we can get some kind of help, some kind of solution, something; just pull, so we can do better than what we doing. And far as the CRA, y'all been doing a great job of building up Overtown, but now it's time for us to get a part of the work that's going on in Overtown. It's a lot of work going on, but ain't none of us got nothing to do with the work. They won't take us in for some reason, but we qualified for the jobs, if you just give us a chance. That's all I ask; just give us a chance. Thank you. Chair Hardemon: Thank you, sir. Shaneetha Omaka: Good evening. My name is Shaneetha Omaka. I'm with the Blue Shirts. First of all, I want to say thank you for everyone on the Board, number one; and thank you for CRA, for allowing us to be a part of Overtown. I've heard some things that have made us understand. There's some changes that we did meet about to make sure that we help as much as we can, differently. We have been pushing them, but there's another way that we're going to go. And what we're going to do is, even tomorrow, we're having a job interview tomorrow for the new group that's supposed to come in, but what we're going to also offer is, those who do not make the cut that we're going to offer assisting them as much as we can; pushing to the max, pushing to the limit to make sure that they get placed; not where we're just getting people placed now; we want to make sure everybody gets placed, even if it's not with the Blue Shirts, because that is true; it is - - from being where they are, they need to be to another level. As Overtown grow, we would like for the people to grow, as well. Thank you. Marcia Carty: First of all, good evening, everyone. Good evening, Commissioners. Good evening, CRA and all stakeholders. More importantly, good evening, Overtown; the residents, and all of us that have either grown up or invested energy and time in changing and transforming our existence here. My name is Marcia Carty. I'm the Blue Shirts. We're happy that we have been a part of working with the community. This -- we are doing more than what we had done traditionally. This year, we are, in fact, making more effort to provide more support to the people that we retain; and additionally, the ones that we do not. We're also looking at the fact that not everyone is going to be a landscaper, so some of our training classes are geared towards even their gender. For instance, we're teaching some other courses to them so that they can have more flexibility when they do graduate from our program. The other thing is we have instituted this year, where during the period of working, they are also receiving more life skill training and support, and we bring them in, actually an hour every day, trying to build up their skills. We have also created liaisons with more agencies, and that, again, gives us more SEOPW CRA Page 10 Printed on 5/8/2017 Southeast Overtown/Park West CRA Meeting Minutes February 27, 2017 flexibility for job placement. So I'm just grateful that we've been allowed to be helpful and our goal is to do more, and that's pretty much it, and I'm happy to be here. Chair Hardemon: Thank you very much, ma'am. Quesny St. Martin: Good evening. Hello, Commissioner and the Board. My name is "Q." I live in 1155 Northwest 136th Street, Opa-Locka. I am here to speak in favor of item number 10, also known as "the HEAT," Hospitality Employees Advancement and Training Programs. I am a cook at the Diplomat, and I've been there for six years. To say that I'm standing here just for myself would be a lie. I'm also standing for my co- workers, who -- most of them, English is a second language for them. They're good people, they're good workers. And what separates them from being great workers is training, and that's why I'm here today, speaking up item number 10. Now, at the Diplomat, we're renovating a lot of restaurants, which requires high demand of skills and training, so we need a training program that can help myself and people like myself that work there to the next level to where -- to achieve expectations that we need. We met with the hotel management about this, and they have agreed to contribute $90,000 to the HEAT, Hospitality Employees Advancement and Training Programs, which allow people like me to better our skills and get promoted for more pay to support our families, and to get where we need to be in life. So with your help, with the CRA, we need this chance to keep moving, and we ask that you support item 10. Thank you. Chair Hardemon: Thank you very much, sir. Come on, brother. Adrian Brown: How you guys doing? My name is Adrian Brown. I work at Overtown Optimist Gibson Club. I teach basketball there and I also help out with the mentoring program, and I'm here to support Chef Samuelsson. I think him coming to the area will help out the area a lot. I been hearing a lot of people in need of jobs, and I think that would bring a lot of traffic to help out the area. Also, I'm in the process of trying to get a Jamaican restaurant open for my mom in this area, as well, so I think that Chef Samuelsson coming here would bring that traffic to be able to help out for the community, to help out with jobs, and in other areas like that. That's all I have to say. Thank you. Chair Hardemon: Thank you very much. You're recognized, sir. Umi Selah: Good evening. Umi, 280 Northwest 46th Street, Miami, Florida 33127. I'm here, excited to speak in favor of item number 10. There are a few things that a city government or a county government can do that is more effective to end poverty, to alleviate crime, to make our neighborhoods safer than to give people a good job; to give people the opportunity to put food on their table; to give people the opportunity not to have to work three and four jobs, but to spend time with their kids; to give people the opportunity -- enjoy all the beauty that Miami has that other people can come into this city and enjoy, but the people who live here cannot. Every year, billions of dollars are spent in Miami, and none of those dollars -- or very few of those dollars flow into the pockets of the people who live in Miami. This is an incredible opportunity that we have to close the loophole that developers use year after year after year to look over the people of Overtown, of Opa-Locka, of Liberty City, and of the neighborhoods that have black people, that have Latino people that they don't want at the front of the house. And this is an opportunity to elevate them, to give them an opportunity to not only stand in the front of the house, but to stand up in dignity in their homes, with a roof over their head, clothes on they back, and food on their table. Dr. King said, "What's the use of integrating a lunch counter if the people can't afford the burger?" And so, we have an opportunity to answer that question, to allow people -- We've already said that we broke down a racial barrier. It's time to break down this economic wall that has been up for too long. Thank you. SEOPW CRA Page 11 Printed on 5/8/2017 Southeast Overtown/Park West CRA Meeting Minutes February 27, 2017 Chair Hardemon: Thank you very much, sir. Elijah John Bowdre: Good evening. My name is Elijah John Bowdre, 1904 Northwest 5th Place, 33136, Overtown. I'd just like to thank you for having this time. I work at the Overtown Business Resource Center in the Overtown Plaza. I live in Town Park. I'm a member of the Overtown community. Working at the business Resource Center, some of the things -- as a professional trainer -- some of the things that is the most pressing, as you all are aware of is training and employment; having people that are qualified. And so, working with the citizens every day, whether it's somebody who's homeless, that's living in a car, that might be there from an abusive situation, or -- there's two young ladies I'm working with that are homeless, ran away from a troubled family situation. The number one thing that they need is a job for money, but a lot of them are lacking the training. So just as an advocate, I just want to thank you and definitely advocate that -- for item number 10, and that we continue to make measures like this. Thank you once again. Chair Hardemon: Thank you very much, sir. Fabiola Fleuranvil: Good afternoon. My name is Fabiola Fleuranvil. I'm here to speak on item number 1. I'm actually a little disappointed by the comments about us needing the restaurant here, the Samuelsson Restaurant. We have more than enough talent in this community. We proved it two weeks ago at the Sweet Butter Pop Up. So I do understand the economic value and I'm a proponent of promoting what Miami has to offer to the entire country, particularly for black Miami. We need this narrative to sound loudly around the country. But to say that this community particularly needs this in order for other restaurants to thrive, I think that's a little unfair to this community. I do know that we need to give everyone a fair balance and I'm familiar with the brand nationally, but we -- there's more than enough talent here. There's more than enough talent here. We're talking about talent retention in this community, and if that's a message that we're talking about loudly in terms of economic development, we need to consider what we already have here as much as we're considering what's coming from outside of the neighborhood. So that is my message to the Commission. I hope you all take that and it echoes loudly, and that you all understand the value. If you are not familiar with the Sweet Butter Pop Up that was here on February 10 at the OPAC (Overtown Performing Arts Center), there were more than 336 people that lined up for an evening event that lasted beyond midnight in Overtown; beautiful people that came from around the entire community -- not just black, but white and Hispanic, as well -- for this pop up that is homegrown for this community, from this community. So if we're going to promote something that's from outside of the community, I need our messengers from this community to also promote what's in this community, as well. That's it. Mr. Woods: CRA dollars co -hosted that. Shelly Fano: My name is -- Mr. Woods: The CRA dollars co -hosted the event, so. Ms. Fano: -- Shelly Fano, 300 Northeast 2nd Avenue, Miami Dade College. And I'm here not to speak against item number 10. Good evening, Mr. Board Chair and Commissioners. First and foremost, I want to express our appreciation for CRA's continued collaboration, sustained support for Miami Dade College Hospitality Institute. Since 2008, the Hospitality Institute has provided a proven track record of addressing employment needs of the underserved individuals. We deliver employment and life skills and targeted workforce training in the hospitality and culinary industry. I'd like to share a few of our advancements. We've conducted focused trainings for the Blue Shirts. We've offered State-manded [sic] food safety training for Jackson Soul Food. This is above and beyond our regular trainings. We're expanding our services to at -risk youth, SEOPW CRA Page 12 Printed on 5/8/2017 Southeast Overtown/Park West CRA Meeting Minutes February 27, 2017 including working closer with Booker T. High School, conducting college and career day fairs for them; and also, partnering with the Department of Juvenile Services. In the summer, we'll be conducting boot camps for the seniors. We've developed crosswalks with our academic program, where the people that take the trainings will be able to get academic credits toward their associate and science degrees at Miami Dade College. In 2017, we will be moving to Culmer Center, and we'll have a hands-on training center there, and include our enhanced services in hospitality training. We'd like to assure you -- and please notice -- we are committed to moving forward, accomplishing our objectives in Overtown, and continuing to change lives. On behalf of Miami Dade College and the Hospitality Institute, we sincerely thank you for your time and your continued funding. Thank you. Chair Hardemon: Thank you. Good evening. Julie Grimes: Good evening. My name is Julie Grimes, 1717 North Bayshore Drive, here in Miami. I'm here to speak about item 10. I have some concerns about item 10, and what they primarily relate to is the Department of Labor EDA (Economic Development Administration) grant that we received to retrofit Ebenezer Church. I've been involved with the hos — Miami Dade College Hospitality Institute since its inception in 2008. In 2013, I worked very closely with the City of Miami, the CRA and Miami Dade College to secure that grant. The intention was to use that grant to retrofit Ebenezer Church to become the training -- the new home of the Miami Dade College Hospitality Institute, to provide expanded training into culinary. So item 10, I believe the CRA wishes to bring in a different agency to do that training, which is entirely your right; and for whatever reasons you're doing that, you know what those are. But Miami Dade College is in -- under a legal obligation to fulfill, under the terms of the grant. So I believe you're in possession of a letter from their legal department, or from Shelly Fano, representing what the legal department had said; that they will require a written release from the Department of Labor EDA to release them from any obligation under that grant, and without that release, they are under a commitment to perform what they said they would perform in that church. There was also associated with that a revocable license that was signed off with the CRA and Miami Dade College, just outlining that there was an understanding that Miami Dade College had that track record, a successful, proven track record of working in Overtown to provide training and opportunity to the people of Overtown, and that they would bring that into the church. So that revocable license would have to be terminated in writing, and formally, with the college. So those are my two concerns in regard to this. And also, of course, we've been under the understanding and impression that Miami Dade College Hospitality Institute has been one of the signature programs in Overtown. I personally know that we have put 3,000 people through that program and over 30 percent of them have received jobs, and have furthered their education, both in high school, completing their GEDs (General Education Diplomas), and moving on to academic programs at Miami Dade College. So we've seen it as a great success. I personally worked with a lot of the people that have come through that program; I have many of them in our hotels. And I would just like to be assured that the college has continued funding to continue the good work that we do, wherever that may be in Overtown. So thank you very much. Chair Hardemon: Thank you very much, Ms. Grimes. Joe Pena: Good evening. Joe Pena, Miami Dade College, College President's Office. Thank you for your service always, gentlemen. I would just like to reiterate our previous two speakers, first and foremost on our appreciation at our years of collaboration with the CRA and City of Miami; and certainly, our appreciation for moving forward and continued support. I also would reiterate our last speaker in terms of the concerns from our legal department in terms of very specifically, the agreement and what it states. The college shall be responsible for the performance of instruction and programs at the College's Hospitality and Culinary Institute on the site improved with funds from this SEOPW CRA Page 13 Printed on 5/8/2017 Southeast Overtown/Park West CRA Meeting Minutes February 27, 2017 award, as provided in the application for this award. That is a concern of ours. That's something that we do feel we need to be released from, as well as the irrevocable lease, as well, and I thank you for your attention and consideration. Chair Hardemon: Thank you very much, sir. You're recognized, sir. Marquise Hardrick: Pastor Marquise Hardrick, Trinity CME (Christian Methodist Episcopal) Church, 511 Northwest 4th Street, Miami, Florida. I'm coming and asking of support for item number 10. As many of you all may know, we have fought long and hard, and have secured some commitments in regards to hospitality; more specifically, for those residents of Overtown. It's one thing to secure commitments to hire people; it's a whole 'nother thing to ensure that we have qualified people to fill those positions. We have established a pipeline to jobs, and not simply promises and hopes for jobs. We're asking you to approve this so that we can secure funding so that those commitments, on one hand, can be fulfilled with a job at the end of the program. Again, I stand, asking you to approve this item number 10 so that we can get our people in Overtown to work, and living wage jobs, at that. Thank you very much. Chair Hardemon: Thank you very much, sir. Good afternoon, sir. Daniel David Reed: Good afternoon. My name is Daniel David (UNINTELLIGIBLE) Reed. I live at New Arena Square, at 1023 Northwest 3rd Avenue. I'm a member of the Blue Shirts. I was hired at the end of May. I was say -- I want to say how happy I was to be hired by the Blue Shirts, to be working with them in beautifying Overtown, as I lived here for two years. Chair Hardemon: Thank you very much, sir. Ernisha Randolph: Good evening. I'm Ernisha Randolph, and I'm speaking on behalf of number 1, item number 1 on the agenda. I just wanted to thank the Commissioner Keon Hardemon, as well as the CRA, and everyone else who was involved in making Sweet Butter a success. So I'm the young lady who's responsible for bringing Sweet Butter to Overtown, along with those people who I just mentioned. And not only was it 336 people who attended; the line was all the way down the street, 11:30 at night, in the middle of Overtown, and I think that speaks volumes for the desire for everyone to have something active in Overtown. And Commissioner, I just want to congratulate you for your role in making that possible. And I also wanted to make it known that, when it comes down to job creation, though it was a one -day event then, and it's something that we'll be continuing -- I saw Baretha (phonetic) Howard, from the Hospitality Institute, who can let you know that we hired over 20 residents of Overtown for the Sweet Butter event. So it's something that I want to continue. It's definitely a -- an idea for a restaurant is definitely in the near future, and I just wanted to make sure that everyone involved doesn't forget about local talent when that does happen. We were here; we have proved the concept. We have showed that there is not only a desire for Sweet Butter to be a part of the Overtown community, but it was a very successful event, and a wonderful night with wonderful people. Thank you. Chair Hardemon: Thank you very much. Is there any other person that'd like to speak during public comment? Seeing no other person that'd like to speak for public comment, we'll close public comment at this time. RESOLUTIONS SEOPW CRA Page 14 Printed on 5/8/2017 Southeast Overtown/Park West CRA Meeting Minutes February 27, 2017 1. CRA RESOLUTION 1861 A RESOLUTION OF THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OF THE SOUTHEAST OVERTOWN/PARK WEST COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY AUTHORIZING THE DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT, IN SUBSTANTIALLY THE ATTACHED FORM, WITH MARCUS SAMUELSSON DEVELOPMENT GROUP, LLC ("MSDG") AS THE TOP RANKED DEVELOPMENT FIRM TO DEVELOP 920 NW 2ND AVENUE, MIAMI, FLORIDA ("PROPERTY") INTO A RESTAURANT/ENTERTAINMENT VENUE; AUTHORIZING THE SALE OF THE PROPERTY TO MSDG FOR $1,500,000 AND AUTHORIZING A GRANT, IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $1,000,000 TO ASSISTS WITH THE PROJECT BUILD OUT COST; AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR TO EXECUTE ALL DOCUMENTS NECESSARY FOR SAID PURPOSE; FURTHER AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR TO DISBURSE FUNDS, AT HIS DISCRETION, ON A REIMBURSEMENT BASIS OR DIRECTLY TO VENDORS, UPON PRESENTATION OF INVOICES AND SATISFACTORY DOCUMENTATION; FUNDS TO BE ALLOCATED FROM SEOPW TAX INCREMENT FUND, ENTITLED "OTHER GRANTS AND AIDS," ACCOUNT CODE NO. 10050.920101.883000.0000.00000. File # 1861 Backup Exhibit - MSDG Development Agreement ENACTMENT NUMBER: CRA-R-17-0005 MOTION TO: Adopt RESULT: ADOPTED MOVER: Wifredo (Willy) Gort, Commissioner SECONDER: Francis Suarez, Commissioner AYES: Hardemon, Gort, Russell, Suarez ABSENT: Carollo Chair Hardemon: Mr. Executive Director, can you introduce item RE.1 ? Clarence Woods, III (Executive Director, Southeast Overtown/Park West Community Redevelopment Agency): Yes. Yes, Mr. Chair. Board Members, Resolution Number 1 is a resolution of the Board of Commissioners of the Southeast Overtown/Park West Community Redevelopment Agency, authorizing the development agreement, in substantially the attached form, with Marcus Samuelsson Development Group, LLC (Limited Liability Company) as the top -ranked development firm to develop 920 Northwest 2nd Avenue into a restaurant/entertainment venue; authorizing the sale of the property to MSDG for $1.5 million; and authorizing a grant in an amount not to exceed a million dollars to assist with the project build -out cost; authorizing the executive director to execute all documents necessary for said purpose; further authorizing the executive director to disburse funds at his discretion, or on a reimbursement basis, or directly to vendors, upon presentation of invoices and satisfactory documentation. This -- Chair Hardemon: Do you have any further comments? Mr. Woods: Commissioner, as Mr. Derek Fleming mentioned, we put this RFQ (Request for Qualifications) out last year; it's been over a year. And we've been at the table. We've negotiated this deal, I think, in -- I mean, on both sides, and I think I've heard -- Commissioner Russell said, "You don't have a good deal unless both parties are willing to walk away." And I think, at some point, we both were willing to walk away, SEOPW CRA Page 15 Printed on 5/8/2017 Southeast Overtown/Park West CRA Meeting Minutes February 27, 2017 but we were able to find common ground. And I think this represents a great opportunity for the community, as some have said here, and we believe that this grant -- well, the sale, as well as the grant, is well placed. Just some of the particulars about the item: They will purchase the building for $1.5 million. This also has a provision wherein, if they sell -- if they want to sell, if they wish to sell within the first seven years, the full amount of the grant would be reimbursed. If they sell in years seven through 10, then $500,000 of the grant would be reimbursed. There is a deed restriction which keeps the land and the building operating as a restaurant for 15 years. I should also mention that we will have the first right of refusal to be able to purchase the building back, should they decide to sell, at the appraised value. So -- oh, the other thing: In making this a fee simple sale, it will now go back on the tax rolls, so we will be able to get the taxes from this particular building. That's primarily it. Chair Hardemon: Any questions? Commissioner Gort. Vice Chair Gort: Let me ask you a question. My understanding is, it's 1.5 and be a grant up to $1 million on reimbursement -- Mr. Woods: Yes. Vice Chair Gort: -- as they develop the --? Mr. Woods: Yes, it's on a reimbursement basis. Vice Chair Gort: Okay. They going to be paying the 1.5 up front? Mr. Woods: Up front, yes. Vice Chair Gort: And you going to place in reserve 800 to 900,000? Mr. Woods: Yes; already. Vice Chair Gort: All right. Mr. Woods: The other thing is that we don't close until they have demonstrated -- well, they've gotten their plans, as well as permits, to start construction. And anything that we do will be on a draw -- I mean, they would be able to requisition payments on draws; it's not fronting them money, or anything like that. So it pretty much guarantees that they actually have to go and do the buildout, and then open the restaurant. Chair Hardemon: Any other questions? Board Member Russell: Yes, Mr. Chairman. Chair Hardemon: You're recognized, sir. Board Member Russell: Mr. Woods, could you explain the benefit of doing a fee simple sale versus the CRA maintaining the land and doing a lease operation? Why did you choose that way, and how did we come to the 1.5 number? Mr. Woods: Well, the fee simple sale actually -- as I just mentioned, it will allow for the land to go back on the tax roll. We did discuss the option of doing a lease, a long-term lease, and there was -- there were some concerns by the Marcus Samuelsson Group with respect to not being able to control their destiny, you know, for years to come, and we were able to, I guess, come to a place to where we felt like in doing a fee simple transaction, that probably would be the best way to get them to come, and it would actually put the land back on the tax rolls. So it was just a matter of whether or not, you SEOPW CRA Page 16 Printed on 5/8/2017 Southeast Overtown/Park West CRA Meeting Minutes February 27, 2017 know, we were stuck in our position, and say, "Yeah, well, we want to do a lease," or, you know, be open to a fee simple transaction, where they would actually own the building. Board Member Russell: And the amount? Mr. Woods: The amount -- well, if you look at the sales, we looked at some comparables within the neighborhood, and at that time, land was trading for around a hundred a square. What we're selling this for is actually $141.24 per square. The closest comp is at $123 per square. So we think we kind of made out on that sales price. Board Member Russell: Got it. Thank you. Chair Hardemon: Are there any other questions? You know, I would like to make a comment. I mean, there was a -- one of the young ladies who spoke earlier spoke about the CRA and us investing in restaurants that are locally owned in this community. And I just want to remind everyone that it's this CRA that invested in Jackson Soul Food so they can have the structure that they have today. It's this CRA that invested in Two Guys so they could be in their new location, and they're doing much better than they've ever been doing before. It's this CRA that gave the -- close to $1 million grant to People's Barbecue so you can see the gut -- rehab of the -- the gut rehab of their location, and soon to be a marquise building right in this community. It's this CRA that invested into the House of Wings. It's this CRA that invested into a number of other different types of businesses, Brother's -- I call it that; keep calling it "Brother's Barbecue" -- but barbecue man, where are you? Mr. Woods: Brother Frazier's Ribs. Chair Hardemon: There he is. Talmadge Frazier: (UNINTELLIGIBLE). Thank you. Chair Hardemon: No problem, brother; no problem. So it's -- my message to you is that we believe in doing for us first. And when I say "us," I mean those of us who live and work in the Overtown community. We will continue to invest in you. We want you to be prosperous before anyone else can come in here and make a single dollar off of your hard work or the dedication that you provide to this community, so we thank you. And in this deal -- this deal wasn't something that was easy to come by, and I think that it will assist the Overtown area in its maturation through these number of years with the introduction of this new brand to our community. So what we have to do is continue to hold them accountable to what we expect of a restaurant in the Overtown community. So I think they should know that we expect excellence, and we don't want anything less than the products that they presented to other communities. So with this, it gives us a true opportunity to continue to earn more tax revenue, to invest more into our -- to the local businesses that are here, and to the people that are here, through our training programs, and through the housing that we're redeveloping so that people who live in this community can continue to live in this community without the fear of a leaky roof pushing them out of it. So I'm in support of this item, as well, and I'd like to entertain a motion to accept RE. 1. Board Member Suarez: So moved. Vice Chair Gort: Move it. I think the restaurant is going to attract new marketing. They'll be doing a lot of new marketing. It's the -- a brand that is well known throughout the world, so that should be able to attract a lot more people to Overtown. SEOPW CRA Page 17 Printed on 5/8/2017 Southeast Overtown/Park West CRA Meeting Minutes February 27, 2017 Chair Hardemon: So it's been properly moved by Commissioner Gort and seconded by Commissioner Suarez. Is there any further discussion? Hearing none, all in favor, say "aye." The Board (Collectively): Aye. Chair Hardemon: Motion passes. 2. CRA RESOLUTION 1857 A RESOLUTION THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OF THE SOUTHEAST OVERTOWN/PARK WEST COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY RATIFYING AN EXPENDITURE OF FUNDS IN THE AMOUNT OF $21,736.17 TO UNDERWRITE COSTS ASSOCIATED WITH THE 2016 HOLIDAY TREE LIGHTING EVENT HELD ON N.W. 3RD AVENUE, MIAMI, FLORIDA; FUNDS ALLOCATED FROM SEOPW, "OTHER GRANTS AND AIDS," ACCOUNT CODE NO. 10050.920101.883000.0000.00000. File # 1857 Backup ENACTMENT NUMBER: CRA-R-17-0006 MOTION TO: Adopt RESULT: ADOPTED MOVER: Francis Suarez, Commissioner SECONDER: Wifredo (Willy) Gort, Commissioner AYES: Hardemon, Gort, Russell, Suarez ABSENT: Carollo Chair Hardemon: Commissioners, as you can tell, the -- two items that caused much of the public comment, and that's items RE.1 and RE.10. So what I'd like to do is I'd like to ask for a motion to approve items 2 through 9. Board Member Suarez: So moved. Vice Chair Gort: Second. Chair Hardemon: It's been properly moved and seconded. Is there any discussion about any of the items from 2 through 9? Board Member Russell: Just a moment, please. Chair Hardemon: Any discussion? Hearing none, all in favor of -- Board Member Russell: I did; just a moment, please. Chair Hardemon: I know I heard something. I couldn't say -- Board Member Russell: Sorry. Board Member Suarez: I thought I heard something, too (UNINTELLIGIBLE). Board Member Russell: On item number 9, with regard to the 320, 000, this will ensure that the employees will receive at least $15 an hour as their gross pay; is that correct? SEOPW CRA Page 18 Printed on 5/8/2017 Southeast Overtown/Park West CRA Meeting Minutes February 27, 2017 Clarence Woods, III (Executive Director, Southeast Overtown/Park West Community Redevelopment Agency): Yes. Board Member Russell: Thank you. That was my question. Chair Hardemon: Any further questions? Hearing none, all in favor, say "aye." The Board (Collectively): Aye. Chair Hardemon: Motion passes. 3. CRA RESOLUTION 1858 A RESOLUTION OF THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OF THE SOUTHEAST OVERTOWN/PARK WEST COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY AUTHORIZING AN EXPENDITURE OF FUNDS, IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $25,000, FOR TRAMCON-TRAINING FOR MANUFACTURED CONSTRUCTION PROGRAM THAT WILL TRAIN REDEVELOPMENT AREA RESIDENTS IN MANUFACTURED CONSTRUCTION; AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR TO EXECUTE ALL DOCUMENTS NECESSARY FOR SAID PURPOSE; FURTHER AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR TO DISBURSE FUNDS, AT HIS DISCRETION, ON A REIMBURSEMENT BASIS OR DIRECTLY TO VENDORS, UPON PRESENTATION OF INVOICES AND SATISFACTORY DOCUMENTATION; FUNDS TO BE ALLOCATED FROM SEOPW TAX INCREMENT FUND, ENTITLED "OTHER GRANTS AND AIDS," ACCOUNT CODE NO. 10050.920101.883000.0000.00000. File # 1858 Back up ENACTMENT NUMBER: CRA-R-17-0007 MOTION TO: Adopt RESULT: ADOPTED MOVER: Francis Suarez, Commissioner SECONDER: Wifredo (Willy) Gort, Commissioner AYES: Hardemon, Gort, Russell, Suarez ABSENT: Carollo Note for the Record: For minutes referencing Item Number 3, please see Item Number 2. SEOPW CRA Page 19 Printed on 5/8/2017 Southeast Overtown/Park West CRA Meeting Minutes February 27, 2017 4. CRA RESOLUTION 1853 A RESOLUTION OF THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OF THE SOUTHEAST OVERTOWN/PARK WEST COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY ("CRA"), WITH ATTACHMENT(S), APPROVING AND ADOPTING THE CRA'S TAX INCREMENT FUND AND GENERAL OPERATING BUDGET, FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCING OCTOBER 1, 2016 AND ENDING SEPTEMBER 30, 2017; DIRECTING THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR TO TRANSMIT A COPY OF THE AMENDED BUDGETS TO THE CITY OF MIAMI AND MIAMI-DADE COUNTY. Exhibit A ENACTMENT NUMBER: CRA-R-17-0008 MOTION TO: Adopt RESULT: ADOPTED MOVER: Francis Suarez, Commissioner SECONDER: Wifredo (Willy) Gort, Commissioner AYES: Hardemon, Gort, Russell, Suarez ABSENT: Carollo Note for the Record: For minutes referencing Item Number 4, please see Item Number 2. 5. CRA RESOLUTION 1854 A RESOLUTION THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OF THE SOUTHEAST OVERTOWN/PARK WEST COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY AUTHORIZING AN EXPENDITURE OF ADDITIONAL FUNDS, IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $80,000 FOR THE 40-YEAR RECERTIFICATION AND REHABILITATION OF 920 NW 2ND AVENUE, MIAMI, FLORIDA; AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR TO EXECUTE ALL DOCUMENTS NECESSARY FOR SAID PURPOSE; FURTHER AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR TO DISBURSE FUNDS, AT HIS DISCRETION, ON A REIMBURSEMENT BASIS OR DIRECTLY TO VENDORS, UPON PRESENTATION OF INVOICES AND SATISFACTORY DOCUMENTATION; FUNDS ALLOCATED FROM SEOPW, "CONSTRUCTION IN PROGRESS," ACCOUNT CODE NO. 10050.920101.670000.0000.00000. File # 1854 Backup ENACTMENT NUMBER: CRA-R-17-0009 SEOPW CRA Page 20 Printed on 5/8/2017 Southeast Overtown/Park West CRA Meeting Minutes February 27, 2017 MOTION TO: Adopt RESULT: ADOPTED MOVER: Francis Suarez, Commissioner SECONDER: Wifredo (Willy) Gort, Commissioner AYES: Hardemon, Gort, Russell, Suarez ABSENT: Carollo Note for the Record: For minutes referencing Item Number 5, please see Item Number 2. 6. CRA RESOLUTION 1855 A RESOLUTION OF THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OF THE SOUTHEAST OVERTOWN/PARK WEST COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY ("CRA") AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION OF A PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH CIRCLE OF ONE MARKETING, INC. ("PROVIDER") TO PERFORM VENUE OPERATIONS AND MANAGEMENT SERVICES AT THE OVERTOWN PERFORMING ARTS CENTER ("OPAC"), LOCATED AT 1074 NW 3RD AVENUE, MIAMI, FLORIDA; AUTHORIZING FUNDING IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED, $120,000 FOR SAID SERVICE AND FUNDING IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED, $100,000 FOR A REVOLVING LOAN THAT WILL BE UTILIZED BY THE PROVIDER TO FUND PROGRAMS AND EVENTS AT THE OPAC; FURTHER AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR TO EXECUTE ALL DOCUMENTS NECESSARY FOR SAID PURPOSE; AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR TO DISBURSE FUNDS, AT HIS DISCRETION, ON A REIMBURSEMENT BASIS OR DIRECTLY TO VENDORS, UPON PRESENTATION OF INVOICES AND SATISFACTORY DOCUMENTATION; ALLOCATING FUNDS FROM SEOPW, "PROFESSIONAL SERVICES," ACCOUNT CODE NO. 10050.920101.531000.0000.00000. File # 1855 Backup ENACTMENT NUMBER: CRA-R-17-0010 MOTION TO: Adopt RESULT: ADOPTED MOVER: Francis Suarez, Commissioner SECONDER: Wifredo (Willy) Gort, Commissioner AYES: Hardemon, Gort, Russell, Suarez ABSENT: Carollo Note for the Record: For minutes referencing Item Number 6, please see Item Number 2. SEOPW CRA Page 21 Printed on 5/8/2017 Southeast Overtown/Park West CRA Meeting Minutes February 27, 2017 7. CRA RESOLUTION 1856 A RESOLUTION OF THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OF THE SOUTHEAST OVERTOWN/PARK WEST COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY ("CRA") AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION OF A PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH E.L. WATERS AND COMPANY, LLC TO PREPARE A FINDING OF NECESSITY/ASSESSMENT OF NEED AND AMEND THE CRA'S REDEVELOPMENT PLAN; AUTHORIZING FUNDING IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED, $335,000 FOR SAID SERVICE; FURTHER AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR TO EXECUTE ALL DOCUMENTS NECESSARY FOR SAID PURPOSE; AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR TO DISBURSE FUNDS, AT HIS DISCRETION, ON A REIMBURSEMENT BASIS OR DIRECTLY TO VENDORS, UPON PRESENTATION OF INVOICES AND SATISFACTORY DOCUMENTATION; ALLOCATING FUNDS FROM SEOPW, "PROFESSIONAL SERVICES," ACCOUNT CODE NO. 10050.920101.531000.0000.00000. File # 1856 - Backup ENACTMENT NUMBER: CRA-R-17-0011 MOTION TO: Adopt RESULT: ADOPTED MOVER: Francis Suarez, Commissioner SECONDER: Wifredo (Willy) Gort, Commissioner AYES: Hardemon, Gort, Russell, Suarez ABSENT: Carollo Note for the Record: For minutes referencing Item Number 7, please see Item Number 2. 8. CRA RESOLUTION 1859 A RESOLUTION OF THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OF THE SOUTHEAST OVERTOWN/PARK WEST COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY AUTHORIZING A GRANT OF ADDITIONAL FUNDS, IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $50,000, TO PEOPLE HELPING PEOPLE SELF REALIANCE, INC. ("GRANTEE") FOR THE REHABILITATION OF PROPERTY AT 210 NW 16TH STREET, MIAMI, FLORIDA ("PROJECT"); AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR TO EXECUTE ALL DOCUMENTS NECESSARY FOR SAID PURPOSE; FURTHER AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR TO DISBURSE FUNDS, AT HIS DISCRETION, ON A REIMBURSEMENT BASIS OR DIRECTLY TO VENDORS, UPON PRESENTATION OF INVOICES AND SATISFACTORY DOCUMENTATION; FUNDS TO BE ALLOCATED FROM SEOPW TAX INCREMENT FUND, ENTITLED "OTHER GRANTS AND AIDS," ACCOUNT CODE NO. 10050.920101.883000.0000.00000. File # 1859 Backup ENACTMENT NUMBER: CRA-R-17-0012 SEOPW CRA Page 22 Printed on 5/8/2017 Southeast Overtown/Park West CRA Meeting Minutes February 27, 2017 MOTION TO: Adopt RESULT: ADOPTED MOVER: Francis Suarez, Commissioner SECONDER: Wifredo (Willy) Gort, Commissioner AYES: Hardemon, Gort, Russell, Suarez ABSENT: Carollo Note for the Record: For minutes referencing Item Number 8, please see Item Number 2. 9. CRA RESOLUTION 1860 A RESOLUTION OF THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OF THE SOUTHEAST OVERTOWN/PARK WEST COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY AUTHORIZING A GRANT, IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $320,000, TO HUMAN RESOURCES OF MIAMI, INC. TO UNDERWRITE COSTS ASSOCIATED WITH THE CONTINUED OPERATION OF THE OVERTOWN BEAUTIFICATION TEAM FOR 2017; AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR TO EXECUTE ALL DOCUMENTS NECESSARY FOR SAID PURPOSE; FURTHER AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR TO DISBURSE FUNDS, AT HIS DISCRETION, ON A REIMBURSEMENT BASIS OR DIRECTLY TO VENDORS, UPON PRESENTATION OF INVOICES AND SATISFACTORY DOCUMENTATION; FUNDS TO BE ALLOCATED FROM SEOPW TAX INCREMENT FUND, ENTITLED "OTHER GRANTS AND AIDS," ACCOUNT CODE NO. 10050.920101.883000.0000.00000. File # 1860 Backup ENACTMENT NUMBER: CRA-R-17-0013 MOTION TO: Adopt RESULT: ADOPTED MOVER: Francis Suarez, Commissioner SECONDER: Wifredo (Willy) Gort, Commissioner AYES: Hardemon, Gort, Russell, Suarez ABSENT: Carollo Note for the Record: For minutes referencing Item Number 9, please see Item Number 2. SEOPW CRA Page 23 Printed on 5/8/2017 Southeast Overtown/Park West CRA Meeting Minutes February 27, 2017 10. CRA RESOLUTION 1863 A RESOLUTION OF THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OF THE SOUTHEAST OVERTOWN/PARK WEST COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY AUTHORIZING A GRANT, IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $300,000, TO HOSPITALITY EMPLOYEES ADVANCEMENT AND TRAINING, INC. TO UNDERWRITE COSTS ASSOCIATED WITH A HOSPITALITY TRAINING PROGRAM THAT WILL BE LOCATED IN THE OVERTOWN PERFORMING ARTS CENTER, 1074 NW 3RD AVENUE, MIAMI, FLORIDA ("OPAC"); FURTHER AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION OF A REVOCABLE LICENSE AGREEMENT WITH HEAT FOR USE OF THE OPAC, SUBJECT TO APPROVAL BY THE U.S. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ADMINISTRATION; AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR TO EXECUTE ALL DOCUMENTS NECESSARY FOR SAID PURPOSE; FURTHER AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR TO DISBURSE FUNDS, AT HIS DISCRETION, ON A REIMBURSEMENT BASIS OR DIRECTLY TO VENDORS, UPON PRESENTATION OF INVOICES AND SATISFACTORY DOCUMENTATION; FUNDS TO BE ALLOCATED FROM SEOPW TAX INCREMENT FUND, ENTITLED "OTHER GRANTS AND AIDS," ACCOUNT CODE NO. 10050.920101.883000.0000.00000. File # 1863 Backup ENACTMENT NUMBER: CRA-R-17-0014 MOTION TO: Adopt RESULT: ADOPTED MOVER: Francis Suarez, Commissioner SECONDER: Keon Hardemon, Chair AYES: Hardemon, Gort, Russell, Suarez ABSENT: Carollo Chair Hardemon: Mr. Executive Director, can you introduce RE. 10? Clarence Woods, III (Executive Director, Southeast Overtown/Park West Community Redevelopment Agency): Yes, Commissioner. Resolution Number 10 is a resolution of the Board of Commissioners of the Southeast Overtown/Park West Community Redevelopment Agency authorizing a grant in an amount not to exceed $300, 000 to Hospitality Employees Advancement and Training, Inc., to underwrite costs associated with a hospitality training program that will be located in the Overtown Performing Arts Center, at 1074 Northwest 3rd Avenue; further authorizing the execution of a revocable license agreement with HEAT (Hospitality Employees Advancement and Training) for use of the OPAC (Overtown Performing Arts Center), subject to approval by the US (United States) Economic Development Administration; authorizing the executive director to execute all documents necessary for said purpose; further authorizing the executive director to disburse funds at his discretion, on a reimbursement basis, or directly to vendors, upon presentation of invoices and satisfactory documentation. And Commissioners, you've heard some comments. I think of the concerns that were voiced -- and primarily, Ms. Julie Grimes and -- sorry, I don't remember the gentleman's name from Miami Dade College -- they had two primary concerns, and that -- those concerns were the revocable license agreement that we signed with the college, which is revocable upon 30 days' notice, and I don't think that that's an issue. And as you can see here, the second concern was EDA (Economic Development Administration) releasing the college from any responsibility to perform the services, the training and educational services at SEOPW CRA Page 24 Printed on 5/8/2017 Southeast Overtown/Park West CRA Meeting Minutes February 27, 2017 the OPAL We've already reached out to EDA, and there is a process whereby -- we are starting that process. We feel confident that it's just a matter of putting in the request and going through the administrative paperwork; and hopefully, we'll be able to get that released, to satisfy the college. Also, I want to make it clear that our relationship with the college is still intact. The idea of the Hospitality and Training Institute, as it is today, our partnership with Miami Dade College, the idea of them going to the Culmer Center happened way before we started any conversations with HEAT. That happened because, as they took a look at the OPAL, or, you know, Ebenezer Church, they felt like it wasn't adequate enough to provide the hospitality training, because they wanted to start bringing in beds and things like that. So they went to the Culmer Center and was able to get -- or secure a space in the Culmer Center to do the hospitality training. They have a resolution which provides four years at $250, 000, I think, for the four years, to continue the training. What's also going to happen is that there's going to be a modification of the kitchen over at the Culmer Center, and we've assured them if it requires us to go in and help to make sure that it's up to the standards that they would like to see in order to continue to train our residents in a way in which they would have at the OPAC, then we would be open to -- of course, with the Board's support -- helping to transform that facility into something just as magnificent as it is in the OPAC. So -- Chair Hardemon: Before we continue, does this need to be turned on? Does it need to be warmed up before; the projector? Because if it does, we'd like to turn it on now so that it's warmed up. Mr. Woods: -- as far as the concerns that have been expressed, we've had some conversations with the folks from Miami Dade College, as well as Ms. Grimes, to try to reassure them that we are still partners. We value the relationship that we have with them, and we will continue to work in that vein. Chair Hardemon: I think it's important that Ms. Grimes knows and that Miami Dade College, especially -- that you all know that we've never flinched in our responsibility in assisting the Hospitality Institute in its job and what it's doing, and we will continue, as long as I'm Chairman, to support the Hospitality Institute. We believe that the training that you've done with the individuals that you have on your staff has been impeccable. I think people have learned to value that training in the Overtown community, and I mean, Nate gets more calls about jobs from individuals going through there than anything, because we all understand that most of us know each other in this community, and who we are to each other matters. And by that, I mean that the promise of getting someone a job is a big promise to carry. It is a big burden that I think many of us, we share in having in this community. And so, I think this item is not a threat to your organization, because we continue -- we see ourselves continuing -- I especially see the CRA (Community Redevelopment Agency) continuing to support you and what you do in this community. And so, we would not want to see you go away. We want to see you, and hopefully, this program work some sort of partnership where we can encourage individuals who've gone through your program to also go through this program, and really walk away with a win -win; a job at the end of the day that will be the marriage between the hospitality industry on the east side of our Miami -Dade County and the communities that exist on the west side of Miami -Dade County so that we can improve upon the conditions that people live in and the quality of life that they have within our community. And so, we look forward to that continued involvement between the college and the program so that we can have success here. Board Member Suarez: Mr. Chair. Chair Hardemon: Yes. Board Member Suarez: Thank you. I just -- I want to echo what you said. I sort of married into the hospitality industry because my wife was a product and is a product of SEOPW CRA Page 25 Printed on 5/8/2017 Southeast Overtown/Park West CRA Meeting Minutes February 27, 2017 the hospitality industry, and I've been a big proponent of the institute. I call it "my baby," because, you know, I've had an opportunity -- I've actually gone to a lot of their graduation ceremonies. I've had a chance to speak at a lot of their graduation ceremonies, and they have really shown a proven track record for many, many years. It's one of the things I'm proudest of supporting as a CRA board member. The work that they've done, and the graduation rates that they have, and the placement rates that they have are exceptional. And so, I want to sort of double down on your commitment, you know, to make sure that the institute continues to thrive. Even if we support the current item to start this companion program, we definitely would like to reiterate our support for the institute, which has been such a big part of what has been successful about the CRA since I've been here. And I do think that the concerns that they expressed are justifiable concerns. And so, we really do need to make sure that they are released from any and all liability relative to the grant, and also the license agreement, of course. Chair Hardemon: Commissioner Gort. Vice Chair Gort: Yeah. I recall one time the -- I mean, they talked about the 30 percent placement, which to me is pretty good, so I hope the new one that's coming in is going to do -- be able to do at least 50. If I recall, the one time -- the relationship that Miami Dade had and the institute had with the different hotels. We had the hotels' owners and managers in here telling us that they were really ready to work with them at the -- So I echo what Commissioner Suarez was stating. I think Miami Dade -- it's not only the institute itself -- Miami Dade can give you the backing of the additional education for the individuals. And let's face it, thing changes and they need more education. Miami Dade will be able to provide it; Miami Dade College. Chair Hardemon: Would you like to say something? Board Member Russell: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I certainly have to trust the Chairman's vision, and the executive director, as well. If there is a switching of horses midstream -- because I sense from Miami Dade College -- I guess I misunderstood a little bit in my briefing, because I really -- I understood that there was still going to be a relationship with Miami Dade College in this particular venture. I guess I misunderstood that there was a complete switch going on here. And so, from that, I really need to understand that our grant is not at risk, because if I'm understanding correctly, Miami Dade College helped get this grant, correct? And they're tied into it quite integrally, so I'm just a little concerned that -- Obviously, we want to honor their wishes in making sure that they're not held responsible within this if we're finding a new partner. But I guess my question is, does that put the grant at risk if we terminate their revocable license and if they're released from obligation from the original grant? "Is it all intertwined?" is my question. Are we secure in the fact that if the switch does happen that we don't lose the grant? Mr. Woods: Well, we've already received the grant and -- all of the grant funds -- and it has gone towards the capital improvement; the buildout of the space. We don't believe that it puts the grant at risk, because in the documents, it provides for a process whereby EDA would have to approve a change, so it doesn't say that there can't be a change; it just says that EDA has to be onboard with the change. Board Member Russell: So the steps to honor their wishes would be that we release them; we terminate their revocable license with the CRA; is that correct? Mr. Woods: Yes, yes; 30 days. Board Member Russell: And then what will trigger their release of obligation from the grant from the other end? SEOPW CRA Page 26 Printed on 5/8/2017 Southeast Overtown/Park West CRA Meeting Minutes February 27, 2017 Mr. Woods: An application to EDA, asking to release Miami Dade College and replace them with the new provider, if you will, to provide the services. From the indications that we've gotten is that it's really about provide -- it's about the services that are being provided; not necessarily who's providing it. Obviously, I don't want to minimize the importance of Miami Dade College, because I think what EDA saw in our application in having Miami Dade College as a partner is a institution that's been in the community forever, and providing -- I mean, education is what they do. But I think, with the new partnership that we are getting into, I think they have just as an extensive track record in providing the training and education, and the job placements, as well. So for us, I think it's going to be the best of both worlds. Board Member Russell: Okay. Chair Hardemon: Yes, I'll let you have an opportunity to speak, but I know I want to let the presentation play so that we can have this out of the way before we have further discussion and come to a vote. Steven Horsford: Good evening, Mr. Chairman and Commissioners, Members of the Board. I'm Steven Horsford, here on behalf of the Hospitality Employees Advancement Training, Inc., and I'm very honored to be joined with Janice Loux, executive vice president of Unite Here, the international union. You've heard from several of our employer participants and the Local Unite Here 355. What I'd like to do is just show you a very brief two -minute video, and then walk you through some of the programs that HEAT will be providing, and to answer some of the questions that have been raised during the presentation, so if you'd turn your attention to the screen, please. Note for the Record: At this time an audiovisual presentation was given. Mr. Horsford: Thank you. So, as I said, I'm Steven Horsford, and I have the honor of serving as the chief executive officer for the Culinary Academy of Las Vegas for more than a decade. And following that experience, we not only developed a state-of-the-art training program that is the standard in the industry across the nation and has been recognized by several Secretaries of Labor on both sides of the aisle in the Administration, this is a joint labor/management partnership between 26 of the largest hotels in Las Vegas and Unite Here, and that's the distinguishing difference with what HEAT is offering and any other program. And there is absolutely the opportunity to continue to partner with Miami Dade College and other local programs, because the community linkages are so important. During our tenure at the Culinary Academy, not only did we develop the training programs, but we built a $14 million facility, including funds from the Economic Development Administration. And so, I do have some history with how that grant is administered, and the requirements. And as the executive director and others have stated, as long as the use as you intended them when you submitted your application are honored and the proper disclosures and notice are given to the EDA, it is appropriate for you to choose the right partner that you want in the facility. So what are we offering here in Overtown? And I want to commend you, Mr. Chairman and Members of the Commission. I'm very excited to be here tonight. After I left the Culinary Academy, I went on to serve in congress, representing Nevada. I have served in the Nevada State Senate, so I know how important it is to hear your constituents and to make sure that you're doing what's in the best interest of them. But I'm also from the community, and I was raised in the same community that we established the Culinary Academy. In fact, I've overcome many of the obstacles that I heard from several of the people in the audience. My mother is a recovering drug addict, now celebrating 20 years of sobriety. My father was shot and killed -- (brief interruption) -- that's the Las Vegas entertainment. My father was shot and killed a block away from where the Culinary Academy now exists. And so, this is personal to me, because so much of what people have asked for is exactly what opportunity that you're giving them tonight in option number 10. So I'd like to move forward in the presentation to just quickly let you know SEOPW CRA Page 27 Printed on 5/8/2017 Southeast Overtown/Park West CRA Meeting Minutes February 27, 2017 that -- along with myself,• Janice Loux, the executive vice president for the Unite Here International Union, which represents hundreds of thousands of workers across the United States in the hotel and restaurant industry; Wendi Walsh, who is the head of the secretary/treasurer for Unite Here Local 355. And what I'd like to cover just briefly is our mission, our approach, our offerings, and what it is we're here to ask of you tonight. So first is our mission. We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit hospitality training program that was formed in collaboration with Unite Here Local 355 and their signatory employer partners. Our employers include hotels, casinos, airport concessions and stadiums. And you heard from the signatory employers who came tonight to speak about their commitment to this program and the resources that they're going to continue to put behind it. At HEAT, we prepare both job seekers and incumbent workers, so people who are both trying to get into the industry, but those who are already working in Miami's growing hospitality industry, who are trying to advance and promote into better careers and advancement. We provide education and pre -employment services, employability skills, interviewing skills, helping people to dress for their interviews, and make sure that they put the right foot forward. We also provide occupational skills training that is employer -driven. We actually engage our employer participants in the design of the curriculum so what the students learn is exactly what the employers are looking for. And the employers certify the training, and that's what gives us -- our graduates the foot up in the process; and actually, our certificate becomes a qualifier for consideration for the positions. We provide job search and placement services for both incumbent workers and those who are seeking to enter the workforce. And so, our mission really stems from a commitment to train and empower workers; to increase their skills; to increase their wages; to improve their work conditions. And when we work with the private sector and engage them into the process, we make them feel included. They understand what we're offering our students. That increases productivity, it increases our work condition and it reduces turnover, and that's why many of the employers were here tonight. Our approach: First, we understand we have to listen to the residents of Overtown, and that means conducting a resident survey to evaluate their employment histories, their skills, their career goals, and to design a training and a program that fits their ultimate needs, including the barriers that they face; to conduct community employability workshops to ident fy those that are interested so that we do the proper outreach; that we don't just wait for people to come to our doors, we actually go out and meet them where they are, including at churches and at community centers and youth centers, and the like. We understand the need to engage local employers, both the major employers that you heard from here today, as well as small businesses, so we collect data from our employers to know their workforce standards in every classification that we train in. And in partnership with Unite Here 355, we have the unique ability to engage these area employers, and one example is the MDMHotel at the Worldcenter that we're all, I know, looking forward to bring to the community, and the fact that 700 people in these classifications will be hired, 20 percent required from Overtown, and 30 percent from Miami's poorest zip codes. Our commitment is to make sure that everyone has the opportunity and training, and preference to pursue those jobs. So briefly -- and I'm not going to go over in detail, because I know you have a very extensive packet, but our course offerings include for culinary and kitchen professional cook. Again, this isn't a two -year -degree program. This is 12 to six weeks of training, Monday through Thursday, on the hours that accommodate the students. Many of our students are adult students who do have other jobs, and they're working around those jobs in order to take this training. A baker's helper and steward are other positions that are entry level into the culinary classification. In food and beverage is the food server position, which, again, is highly in demand here in this Miami community, and to make sure the individuals have the training there. And as we have been doing at the Diplomat, we actually have helped people to upgrade their skills so that they're qualified for those new higher -end restaurants that have come in, which has created openings that need to be filled for -- "backfrll" is what we call them in the industry -- which is where our graduates who are new to the program; new graduates can go in to backfrll those positions. We also have bus person and banquet server. In beverage and wine training, it starts with bar service, SEOPW CRA Page 28 Printed on 5/8/2017 Southeast Overtown/Park West CRA Meeting Minutes February 27, 2017 bar back, but we also train in wine service and cocktail service. And one of the most sought-after positions for incumbent workers are sommeliers, which can make 30, 40 percent more money once they know how to properly suggest wine. And then hotel operations, one of the important backbones of the industry, hotel guestroom attendant and house utility porters. I have seen firsthand immigrant workers new to our country get placed, ex -offenders, people who have background issues. We have worked with them and our employers to get them placed, and after they pass their probationary period, come back for upgrade training, and then advance into other positions, and that's how you really move people up a career ladder. And then employability and interview skills, focusing on customer service. We also were awarded by former Secretary of Labor Chow one of two Hispanic Worker Initiative Grants for hospitality, and we designed vocational English for speakers of other languages, and it's specific to hospitality. So when I heard the cook from the Diplomat say many of his co-workers are great, but they could be better if they just had those additional skills, we have the curriculum that will allow them to advance in those skills. But it doesn't stop there. When they graduate, we work with them, one on one, to provide them with interview, complete their 10-year work history, know what it is that they're going to be asked by the employers, and then work to get them interviews and placement. And then we follow them and track them after they've been placed, to see their retention, whether they get promoted. And then the last piece which I want to emphasize is, as part of the Unite Here 355 agreement and the employer contributions, once they get placed, as part of their training benefits, they can come back for upgrade training. This isn't about giving someone a entry-level job and then leaving them. This is about giving them an opportunity, which I see is in your mission, for a better life, and we work with them to do that. So many of our graduates -- so our graduates, now, more than 60 percent of them are incumbent workers who've come back to upgrade and promote. And more -- the more they promote, the more positions there are to fill for new graduates, and that's how we continue to mobilize people. So we're here to ask of you support. We have a projected budget of $400, 000 in this fiscal year, and it increases slightly over the next two fiscal years. More than 80 percent of our budget is dedicated to direct client services; not to administrative overhead. You've heard that we've already been able to secure through Unite Here more than $100, 000 in contributions from signatory employers. And as they go into the negotiation process later this year, they'll be able to secure more, but only with the investment that comes from the CRA. And finally, in addition to the employer contributions, through the Unite Here International Union, they also have provided $125,000 of in -kind support in the establishment of the training programs and the operations. So this is labor joining with employers, asking for support from our community partners, the CRA, to help us do this work. And so, our grant funding request today is consistent with your mission to benefit the residents of Overtown and to eliminate blight, and increase sustainable employment. We are respectfully asking today that you designate a lease in the Overtown Performing Arts Center, which has already been designed. It's a beautiful space and perfectly situated for this type of training; and an annual grant to support the training, and workforce development programs, to get us started. But the final thing is, we're not asking for funding in perpetuity, because our employers and labor partners will be continuing to work together to secure other funding that can be leveraged in future years so that we're self-sufficient and sustainable. So that's our request. I'd like to thank you for your consideration. Thank you for giving me the time to be here, and I want to say, on behalf of HEAT and our employer partners, and the union that we look forward to working with you as partners in bringing this program to Overtown and to the residents of Overtown. Thank you for allowing me to present tonight. Chair Hardemon: Are there any questions from Members of the Board? Ms. Grimes, I know you had a question that you wanted to put forward. Thank you, sir. Ms. Grimes: Thank you for allowing me one more comment. Commissioner Russell, you brought up a good point about the grant possibly being -- the EDA grant possibly being in jeopardy. Yes, the money's already been spent, but it was spent on a certain SEOPW CRA Page 29 Printed on 5/8/2017 Southeast Overtown/Park West CRA Meeting Minutes February 27, 2017 representation, and that representation was based on the application that was submitted between the City, the CRA, and Miami Dade College. It was a very rigorous exercise to go through; it took over six months. It was a difficult grant. We were told we had to -- it was going to be very hard, was -- whether or not it would go through, because it was very competitive, and what -- I believe one of the main reasons it went through was on the actual reputation of Miami Dade College as the nation's largest and one of the most respected community colleges in the country. And I am -- I remain concerned, and wantitto go on record that I am very concerned about that grant, and the possibility that perhaps the EDA won't buy into all this, and you're putting yourselves and all of us at risk -- not all of us, but Miami Dade College will ask for that release, and I believe that written release has to come through the EDA, and until such time as that is received, I'm not sure how you can go to this next step, but -- I'm not a lawyer, but I can tell you, that process was very intense, and it was very serious, and it had the commitment of all parties at many levels. So I don't think it's as easy as Clarence says. That's my concern. Mr. Woods: Commissioners, while I appreciate Ms. Grimes' perspective in that the college was definitely attractive to EDA in approving the grant, I think what's probably most attractive -- or what was most important to EDA is the fact that it was a $3.5 million project, and we put in, you know, the lion's share of the project. EDA -- it was a $900, 000 grant, and it does matter -- it did matter -- but the lion's share of the grant was borne by the CRA. And I think a lot of times, when agencies -- I know we do -- look at funding these types of grants, they look at the leverage, or what else is being provided by the other side. And their grant was basically the gap in funding. We've talked to EDA, and EDA has suggested that the function is more -- it's more what they're looking for; not necessarily the provider. That's what they said. That was a comment from them. I think we just have to submit the application or the request to release Miami Dade College, and, you know, see where it goes. Hopefully, it doesn't -- we don't hit a snag, and we won't have to worry about this. Mr. Horsford: Mr. Chairman, if I could just briefly, just to this point, and with no disrespect to the prior speaker or person who raised the question from the Hospitality Institute. Two things: First of all, you own the church; it's CRA property, and that's the investment that was made. You are the primary applicant from the standpoint you put up the building, the land, the investment. And as the use is the most important thing, are you doing in the facility what you said you were going to do? And this training is consistent with the offerings that were indicated in that grant. And for those reasons, and the fact that there is a process, both based on what Miami Dade has said, that they would be willing to be released, that that's what they are asking for; that if they are released and they have no responsibility, for you to select the provider of your choice to partner to provide this training is really the decision. And on behalf of HEAT, what I can say is, to the extent the Commission needs, you know, some flexibility here -- because, again, I understand that -- we would be willing to accept as a condition of our approval that you get that written release from the EDA, but to allow the project, as proposed, to move forward, because it does allow EDA to know what it is you're recommending to be put in the church. Mr. Woods: And this is subject to the release from the EDA, as I read in the record. Chair Hardemon: Any other questions? Vice Chair Gort: I'd like to hear from the Attorneys. William Bloom (Special Counsel to the CRA): The grant was secured by a $900,000 project -- mortgage encumbering the project. So before the CRA can proceed with this, the conditions have to be satisfied so that we know we're not in jeopardy of defaulting under the mortgage, which would jeopardize it and require the CRA to repay the $900, 000. So if you obtain the -- and the resolution is already conditioned upon getting SEOPW CRA Page 30 Printed on 5/8/2017 Southeast Overtown/Park West CRA Meeting Minutes February 27, 2017 the necessary approvals. So if we know we have those approvals to release the college, terminate the license agreement, and proceed with the new arrangement which -- so we would not be in violation of the original grant, then we're in a position to proceed; and that, I think, is how the resolution before you has been drafted. Chair Hardemon: So the worst thing that can happen to the CRA is that the CRA would have to repay the $900, 000 that the — of the grant that was received from the Federal authority? Mr. Bloom: I believe that is correct; you'd have to repay. Board Member Russell: But did I understand correctly that you are satisfied with the wording of the resolution making the contingencies? You're not considering that these releases have already been made, because it's just verbal, as I understand, Mr. Woods, what you had said. You'd heard from the EDA that the use -- Mr. Woods: Just about the process, right. And that's why the language is contingent upon -- Board Member Russell: Right. Mr. Woods: -- release. Board Member Russell: They didn't say that in writing, though, that --? Mr. Woods: No, not yet, but we are in the process of -- Board Member Russell: I just want to make sure we're doing everything in the right order -- Mr. Woods: Yes. Board Member Russell: -- so that nothing comes into jeopardy. Mr. Woods: Yes. Rafael Suarez -Rivas (Assistant City Attorney, Supervisor): Commissioners, just to avoid doubt, I think that it's correct that these would be like conditions precedent. You have to have the approval from the US Economic Development Administration before you disburse or go forward; it's a condition occurring beforehand. Chair Hardemon: Any other questions? Board Member Russell: Yes. And regarding the future relationship with Miami Dade College -- because I've heard a lot of intention to continue to work together with them -- they sent us a letter on February 22, sort of asking us to solidify what that future relationship would be if -- Are we looking to continue on the original agreement that was with them in another program, or are we looking to find new avenues to work with them? Because I guess my question for the Hospitality Institute is, how does this affect their -- I don't know how much they were counting on this in whatever expenditures they had made, or plans in staffing and whatever. For us to make this decision, how does it affect them, and what are we doing with them in the future? Mr. Woods: We will continue the existing relationship with them; albeit not at the Overtown Performing Arts Center. There was a resolution once we had -- Once we were awarded the EDA grant, we brought a resolution that committed $900, 000 to continue to fund the operations of the Hospitality and Culinary Institute, and it is the intent to SEOPW CRA Page 31 Printed on 5/8/2017 Southeast Overtown/Park West CRA Meeting Minutes February 27, 2017 continue to partner with Miami Dade College to do so. We were looking to -- once we got this particular item taken care of we would -- whether it's in the next month or so -- bring back an item to continue with the Hospitality Institute for their funding for this year. Board Member Russell: Thank you. Mr. Woods: I mean, it's the same annual appropriations that we do every year. Chair Hardemon: The partnership with Miami -Dade County -- well, I'm sorry -- Miami Dade College -- I just want to first say that the work that we do as the CRA, the grants that we've given is what has powered the Hospitality Institute, so I want to make that very clear. Miami Dade College is a partner in that process, especially since we pay for the salary of the -- I believe it's -- the title, executive director, if you will, of the Hospitality Institute. So if you go to my -- Shelly Fango: I do not get paid. Chair Hardemon: I'm sorry. You don't get paid. Well, we pay for somebody who -- Mr. Woods: There are two positions. There are two positions that the institute actually - - well, it's funded by the CRA. Chair Hardemon: Right. So I just want everyone to understand that this is our program just as much as it is anybody else's program. This was borne through the efforts of this Board. Some of the individuals who are sitting right here today were here when they created the program. So I think that people -- that all of us who are here, as well as the people who've participated within it, and those who are within the community want to see the program continue to do what its mission is. And so, what I'd like is a motion to approve item RE.10 so we can move forward with adding more resources for the people in this area and the people who need employment within Miami -Dade County so that they can get better paying jobs in the future in the City of Miami. Is there a motion to approve RE.10? It's been properly moved by Commissioner Suarez; seconded by the Chair. Any further discussion? Commissioners -- you want to say something or --? Well, can -- Unidentified Speaker: (UNINTELLIGIBLE). Ms. Grimes: Until such time as this is all clarified through the EDA, things are a little bit in limbo, because the college is still under that obligation, and the building is ready to go; is it not? Mr. Woods: Subject to. We -- Ms. Grimes: Subject to -- Mr. Woods: -- just said it's subject to, so we're going to get -- Vice Chair Gort: Subject to the release. Ms. Grimes: So the college will get written -- Mr. Woods: Yes. Ms. Grimes: -- release -- Mr. Woods: Yes. SEOPW CRA Page 32 Printed on 5/8/2017 Southeast Overtown/Park West CRA Meeting Minutes February 27, 2017 Ms. Grimes: -- from the EDA? Mr. Woods: Yes. Yes. Ms. Grimes: Perfect. Mr. Woods: Unequivocally. Board Member Suarez: And this will -- and this grant will not be disbursed without that? Vice Chair Gort: Right. Board Member Suarez: Is that correct? Mr. Woods: Right. Board Member Suarez: Ms. Grimes, and this grant will not be disbursed without that. Mr. Woods: Right. Chair Hardemon: I've had an opportunity -- well, we saw some of the presentation. I've had an opportunity to actually see the location in Las Vegas, and the operation of that facility -- or multiple facilities -- is something that's beyond the words of "amazing." I mean, they created a -- for all -- the lack of better words -- they provided healthcare to the individuals that worked in those jobs. That is outside what is in the market. That is a precursor to the Affordable Care Act; that individuals who are there have free access to healthcare, because they work in the hotel industry in that place. And, I mean, it is something to marvel at, when you see individuals who come and who are from an area where English is their second language, where they were born in poverty, but they were able to put their kids through college, and they were able to put food on their table, and provide them healthcare, and afford a car, and all kinds of things that we all want in this community. And to see that organization in partnership with Unite Here have such a spectacular program, where people walk away with jobs and with training, and they become valued members of an industry where they can travel all over the world to participate. So, yes, you can be born and raised in Overtown; you can work in anyplace that you want to. It can be China, it can be Hong Kong, it can be Australia, it can be wherever. Your limit is only the limit that you put in your mind, especially once you receive the training that is offered by a program like this. And I want the people who are residents here in this community to know that this is the type of employment opportunity, this is the type of training, this is the type of gap -filler, this is what raises beautiful children to do positive things, and what improves upon a condition. This is what's going to help you provide a better life for other people who live in your household, and I'm just excited to have a part in making this happen. And I look forward to the support of not only the Board Members in this, but all of the community partners and all the union members, where we can now point the finger at you and say, "Tell us what you've done for us lately." And so, you know, I'm excited about this opportunity. I hope that all of you on this Board support me in this vote. Vice Chair Gort: Mr. Chairman, let me tell you, for me, education is the most important thing you can give anyone. Without education, we can't go too far. So I read the program. I think -- I hope the program can accomplish all that established here. I think you had an opportunity to go and see it and to continue to -- once you get -- hire people, give them the ability to go up, I think that's great. If we can do that, that's fine, but let's make sure we get all those documents signed and so on. Chair Hardemon: Any other questions? Hearing none, all in favor, say "aye." SEOPW CRA Page 33 Printed on 5/8/2017 Southeast Overtown/Park West CRA Meeting Minutes February 27, 2017 ADJOURNMENT The Board (Collectively): Aye. Chair Hardemon: All against? Motion passes. Thank you, everyone. Applause. Chair Hardemon: Meeting is concluded. The meeting adjourned at 6: 55 p.m. SEOPW CRA Page 34 Printed on 5/8/2017