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HomeMy WebLinkAboutSEOPW CRA 2017-10-30 MinutesCity of Miami 819NW2nd Ave 3rd Floor Miami, FL 33136 http://miamicra. com Meeting Minutes Monday, October 30, 2017 5:00 PM Black Archives Historic Lyric Cultural Arts Complex 819 NW 2nd Avenue 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 October 30, 2017 CALL TO ORDER Present: Chair Hardemon, Vice Chair Gort, Commissioner Russell and Commissioner Suarez Absent: Commissioner Carollo On the 30th day of October 2017, the Board of Commissioners of the Southeast Overtown/Park West Community Redevelopment Agency of the City of Miami met in regular session at Black Archives Historic Lyric Cultural Arts Complex, 819 NE 2nd Avenue, Miami, Florida. The meeting was called to order by Chair Hardemon at 5:03 p.m., and was adjourned at 5:44 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 MINUTES APPROVAL I. SOUTHEAST OVERTOWN/PARK WEST CRA - REGULAR - JUN 26, 2017 5:00 PM MOTION TO: Approve RESULT: APPROVED MOVER: Wifredo (Willy) Gort, Vice Chair SECONDER: Ken Russell, Commissioner AYES: Hardemon, Gort, Russell, Suarez ABSENT: Carollo Chair Hardemon: Good evening, and welcome to the Monday, October 30, 2017 meeting of the Southeast Overtown/Park West Community Redevelopment Agency. I want to note the presence of Commissioner Gort and also Commissioner Russell; along with myself, as Chairman. We indicate the quorum here that's needed. Oh, and walking into the building up the stage, very slowly, is Commissioner Francis Suarez. I'd like to start this meeting with the approval of the regular meeting minutes of June 26 and July 31, 2017. Is there a motion to approve those meeting minutes? Vice Chair Gort: Move it. Chair Hardemon: Been properly moved -- Board Member Russell: Second. SEOPW CRA Page 2 Printed on 12/18/2017 Southeast Overtown/Park West CRA Meeting Minutes October 30, 2017 Chair Hardemon: -- and seconded to approve those meeting minutes. Seeing no further discussion regarding those meeting minutes, all in favor of those -- of that approval, say "aye." The Board (Collectively): Aye. Chair Hardemon: The motion was approved. II. SOUTHEAST OVERTOWN/PARK WEST CRA - REGULAR - JUL 31, 2017 5:00 PM MOTION TO: Approve RESULT: APPROVED MOVER: Wifredo (Willy) Gort, Vice Chair SECONDER: Ken Russell, Board Member, District Two AYES: Hardemon, Gort, Russell, Suarez ABSENT: Carollo Note for the Record: For minutes referencing Agenda Item II, please see Agenda Item I. CRA DISCUSSION 1. CRA DISCUSSION 3142 DISCUSSION ITEM BY THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE SEOPW CRA. RESULT: DISCUSSED Chair Hardemon: Before we begin our first discussion item, I want to -- well, I guess within the discussion item -- ensure that you discuss what happened at the Florida Redevelopment Association meeting, but I want to give the floor to our executive director, Mr. Clarence Woods. You're recognized, sir. Clarence Woods (Executive Director, Southeast Overtown/Park West Community Redevelopment Agency): Thank you, sir. Good evening, board members and the community. I'd like to take this opportunity to just give some reflections. About five years ago -- a little over five years ago, when I was appointed to this position, I did not at that time feel the need to celebrate or to -- it wasn't a real joyous occasion for me at that moment, because I felt the weight of responsibility that the position would hold, and I was focused on the task at hand, and trying to make sure that during my tenure or my time as the executive director that I would be able to implement programs and projects and whatnot, the development that was expected not only by this board, but by the people of the redevelopment agency. So I never felt -- even though we've done a lot of things during that time -- we've had a lot of ribbon cuttings, a lot of groundbreaking -- I've never felt, you know, at ease to be able to, you know, relax and say, "Hey, well, we've done good." But now, at this point in time, I think I've done just about as much as I SEOPW CRA Page 3 Printed on 12/18/2017 Southeast Overtown/Park West CRA Meeting Minutes October 30, 2017 would like to see from my perspective as the head of this organization, and I'm tendering my resignation today, to be effective December 1, and I do so, you know, having -- You mentioned the brochure that's in the agenda packet. That's the FRA's (Florida Redevelopment Association's) brochure for this year. And for the second year in a row, the Southeast Overtown/Park West CRA (Community Redevelopment Agency) had a project that was selected as the President's Choice Award for all of the redevelopment agencies throughout the State of Florida. This is our second year receiving that award. And I was sitting with staff at the table right before we got ready to receive the award, and I was contemplating putting in my resignation, and it just dawned on me, "Okay. Well, you know what? Now you can take a bow," and I do that, you know, feeling that -- feeling a sense of accomplishment that we've achieved some things; and by the way, this is my notice. So that's really essentially what I want to do here today, Commissioners, is to tender my resignation, but I do so wanting to make the recommendation for continuity of service. Neil Shiver has been the assistant director for the last four years. He and I have worked hand in hand. IfI could say, you know, that we've built a relationship that's -- I can't say that I've mentored him. He's been like a big brother to me. But we've been working hand in hand. I think, in my resigning, and if you choose to select him to replace me as the executive director, I think you'll have the continuity of service and that we will continue to move forward. I say, "we," because I'll always feel a connection to the CRA. We'll have the continuity of service, and we'll be able to continue to move the organization forward to meet the challenges that are ahead of us and to continue with all of the wonderful things that we are doing in the redevelopment area. Chair Hardemon: I typically allow the board members to speak first, because I believe as Chairman, I'm supposed to facilitate information in the conversation from this board before I project myself into the conversation. But I must say that Mr. Woods, when I assumed this position, you were already the executive director. And I know that many people felt that there was going to be quite a bit of change in the structure of this organization before I really stepped into my chairmanship, but I wanted things, as far as the structure of this organization especially, to remain the same, to do exactly what you've done; to show this community that you can implement positive change within this community without shaking up the system, if you will, and give people the belief that very positive things happen under leadership such as yours. And so, I'm honored that you've served as the executive director for the time that you've been here; not just in my term, but also in the previous Chairman's term. And we're proud, and we're proud of a lot of the accomplishments that we've managed here in the redevelopment agency in this area, especially the Park West/Overtown area. And when you look at the people who come before us, the community members, and now the things that they're saying about the redevelopment agency versus what they were saying, I think it's a testament to the things that you've allowed to accomplish -- you've allowed to flourish here. And so, you know, I just want to be the first to say thank you for what you've done. Any other member want to say something? Vice Chair Gort: I think you had a great task in front of you and you were able to accomplish the task. I think, as you drive around this neighborhood, you can see some of the buildings that are going up, you know, see the difference the CRA have made, and this whole area here is coming back, so I think you should feel proud about that. But nevertheless, we're not going to lose you. I mean, you're going to be in the City of Miami, so we're going to be keeping in touch. Mr. Woods: Thank you. Vice Chair Gort: Don't worry. Chair Hardemon: And keep us in our place, right? The -- Board Member Suarez: I definitely want to say something. SEOPW CRA Page 4 Printed on 12/18/2017 Southeast Overtown/Park West CRA Meeting Minutes October 30, 2017 Chair Hardemon: Please. Board Member Suarez: Thank you, Mr. Chair. You know, as I reflect on the eight years that I've served that are coming to an end soon, in the next week or two, as Commissioner, I remember moments that I thought were -- and I think are defining moments not only in my career, but certainly in the evolution of the City in the time that I've been there. One of them I remember was when Neil looked at me and said, "You know, you're going to have to be a leader now," and I passed the gavel to bond the $60 million; to make the motion to bond the $60 million, you know, to create a lot of the resources that we use to create the affordable housing projects that have now transformed. Even the very place that we're in right now, as I was driving up, I realized how different the Folklife Village looked -- looks today from how it looked back then, and it reminded me of another conversation that you and I had when, you know, I was worried about all these properties that we had entitled under these 9 percent deals. And I remember one day looking at you and saying, "Clarence, you know, I think we're going to have to convert all these deals to 4 percent deals." And you looked at me and said, "But Commissioner, we're not going to get the same leverage. We're not going to get the same amount of units." And I said, "Yeah, but right now, we're sitting on a ton of money" Mr. Woods: Yeah. Board Member Suarez: -- and if we don't do what we can do with the resources that we have, people are just going to continue to criticize the agency, and we're not going to get anything done." And you had the flexibility and the foresight to say, "You know what? That makes a lot of sense." And we changed all these deals from 9 percent deals to 4 percent deals. And would we have gotten more units? I don't know. When they would have come, I don't know. But I can see very clearly and concretely what is outside of our door right now. And I think when you look at -- And I wish more people knew about this, because when you look at the Florida Redevelopment Awards -- and this is -- really cites both of our CRAs -- the Omni, for being unique; and Overtown -- and, you know, our CRAs are under constant attack from legislatures and from people in our community. And I really wish a lot of those people, some of which maybe don't even drive in the CRA, I really wish they would see this and I really wish they would acknowledge the hard work that you've done and the hard work that we've done, because, you know -- Look, are we above criticism? Are we above being criticized for some of our expenditures? Probably not. I mean, I'm sure that there are things that people can criticize us for -- maybe legitimately -- but I will say that -- And I remember the first day that you came challenging you, and I remember the look of -- the look that you gave me, like, "What are you talking about? You know, are you going to call me out like that, you know, on day one?" And you rose to that challenge and we -- you've risen to the challenge of -- all the challenges that we've had to make this the very vibrant community that it is becoming. There are real differences; there are real significant differences in this community as a result of the money that we've invested, as a result of the chances that we've taken, and some of the decisions we made. There are real differences in people's lives, real people's lives, and I'm proud of that. I'm really, really proud of it. I'm proud of the work that you've done as executive director. I'm proud of the work that you all have done. I'm proud of the work that you've done as Chairman, and I'm -- I tell you, one of the things that is -- it used to be the most frustrating. Remember I told you at the beginning, "Man, the most frustrating thing is being a CRA Board member. And now, it's become one of the biggest blessings, and one of the things I'm going to miss the most being a City Commissioner is not having an opportunity to be a CRA Board member. But with your permission, I'd love to continue to be involved after, because I think I can be helpful and - - as a board member. And certainly, I look forward to working with you in whatever incarnation you decide to take, and I'll be there by your side, helping you and supporting you in your career. SEOPW CRA Page 5 Printed on 12/18/2017 Southeast Overtown/Park West CRA Meeting Minutes October 30, 2017 PUBLIC COMMENTS Mr. Woods: I appreciate that. I'd also like to say, I mean -- and I meant to say it before - - thanks. My thanks go to you who trusted me and trusted me with this position, board members, and held on and gave me all the support I need when I need it. And I'd like to thank my staff. My staff has been -- and I told them -- they've been family, and I spend more time with them than I do at home, and we've cultivated a family -like environment. So to all of the staff Neil, Miguel, all you guys back there, I love you all and I'll still be around. But then most important, I want to thank the residents of the redevelopment area for allowing us to serve. Thank you. Board Member Russell: Mr. Chairman? Chair Hardemon: Yes. Board Member Russell: Thank you. What Commissioner Suarez said about looking at what both CRAs have done, and being able to tell that story more, I -- there's actually no comparison in terms of the Overtown CRA has done, compared to what the Omni CRA has done in terms of affordability and the efforts that go on. And, well, having only been the Chairman there for the last two years, I recognize now what a heavy lift that is, and the accomplishments that are there in terms of what has been built and what is available to people that wasn't before, and what levels of slum and blight have been eliminated, which is our exact challenge; and so, I certainly congratulate you for that. It's been a pleasure working with you, and I don't think you'll be going too far, so I hope to work with you some more. Mr. Woods: Thank you, sir. Chair Hardemon: I want to give you a round of applause. (Applause) Mr. Woods: Thank you. Thank you, Mr. Chair. I sincerely appreciate it. You don't know how much that actually means to me. Thank you. Chair Hardemon: So at this time, I'm going to open the floor for all other items on the agenda, so if you're here from the public and you'd like to speak on any of the items that are left on the agenda, now is your time. So approach the lectern, state your first name, last name; you may state your address and what item it is that you're speaking about. You have two minutes to address this body. You're recognized, ma'am. Jackie Bell: My name is Jackie Bell, 1600 Northwest 3rd Avenue, New Washington Heights Community Development Corporation, incorporated in 1973. I want to speak about Mr. Wood [sic] and what he has done. I'd like for him to know that I did not just call him my son because he was the director over the CRA (Community Redevelopment Agency). I called him my son because he has shown that he was a professional. We have had our differences, but our differences have not stemmed over to stop the progress. In 1973, God bless her, Gwendolyn Sawyer Cherry and I came home from the legislature, and we had grew up in this community, and we saw what had happened, and we wanted to make a change. It took us until about five or 10 years ago to make that change. The last five years, we can walk down the street and say how proud we are. Clarence, I love you. I am sorry to see you go, but I am happy if your life is going to be better, because you have proven, irregardless to what is all the conversation -- we all disagree on a whole bunch of stuff -- but you have proven to be a professional and a professional to this SEOPW CRA Page 6 Printed on 12/18/2017 Southeast Overtown/Park West CRA Meeting Minutes October 30, 2017 community,- not only a professional, but a love child to me. I thank you. I never had a son, but you are what a son would be to me. Mr. Woods: Thank you. (Applause) Ms. Bell: And to Mr. Shriver [sic], whom you just appointed, he and I have worked over the years on betterment for communities, and we thank you, Mr. Shriver [sic], for accepting this, and we know that the continuation of the professionalism will continue to happen. And, yeah, I need this money now, okay? But I — but to me, they have shown that they are truly professionals in this, and I thank you, and congratulations, my new son. (Applause) Cornelius Shiver: I'll be brief. And I read Clarence's resignation letter, and he said this moment would be bittersweet, and it's bittersweet to me, as well. I like to believe I had something to do with Clarence becoming the new executive director about five years ago, when I was tasked to help clean up the CRA to send it in a different direction. One of the decisions was made to make Clarence the executive director, and I wouldn't have taken this job had it not -- had Clarence not made the recommendation that I take it. Me and him had always talked about this day in a different way, but what I will say is in accepting the decision, the recommendation, it's like a -- in a four -lap race, but Clarence has ran three laps, and he's handed the baton to me. I'm 60 years old, so I'm good for one lap. So I want to thank you. I can say a lot of good things about Clarence; it speaks for itself. But thank you, Clarence, for being like a brother to me, and we've been doing this for a while together. I was on the side -- You're right, Commissioner Suarez. I always speak about the leadership, but it also includes Clarence Woods, as well. So we're not losing him; he's just going across the street. Thank you. (Applause) Marcia Cartey: Good afternoon, Commissioners. The -- I'm -- My name is Marcia Cartey. I'm here from Human Resources of Miami, better known as "The Blue Shirts." I don't know how to say thank you. I don't know -- Am I supposed to sing? Thank you so much, because, you know, we were given an opportunity that most small companies really don't have that chance to help the community that we're from. So I just want to say thank you so much for being the leader, for being the encourager that you have been to us. You've given us flexibility when we want to help the residents, and you even understood why we wanted to do certain things, and I just really appreciate you, and I want to wish you the best in whatever endeavors you're going to now. Thank you so much. Thank you, Commissioners, as well. Thank you. Shoshana Lincoln: Board, my name is Reverend Lincoln, from People Helping People, 210 Northwest 16th Street, an Overtown resident. There are a lot of criticism in the constituents in Overtown who are not very happy, and Suarez has mentioned that. I am expecting more to get done in this Overtown territory, sort of a radius of one square mile. Not much has been done. Our bus stops are all smelly with urine, people drinking beer. The CRA Police don't do nothing. The NRO (Neighborhood Resource Officer) -- and the NRO don't do nothing. I mean, we have a pathetic territory to deal with every day. Me, I take the bus, and I know that. We need more to done in Overtown [sic]. And I notice the board sort of come together to say the good things that happening in Overtown, but not saying any bad thing. Why we take so long to build this little Overtown, I don't know. I pass five Commissioner here. Now I have -- now the question for Brian Seltzman and Clarence. They have encouraged me to sign off the retainage to the contractor that work what left to done will be done. Two months now and nothing happen. SEOPW CRA Page 7 Printed on 12/18/2017 Southeast Overtown/Park West CRA Meeting Minutes October 30, 2017 Chair Hardemon: Before I move forward, I want to say this: Sometimes, Reverend Lincoln, you should start your sentences with "thank you" -- Ms. Lincoln: Actually -- (Applause) Ms. Lincoln: Let me say I am -- Chair Hardemon: -- because everyone knows in this community the blessing that this organization has bestowed onto you. Unidentified Speaker: Amen. (Applause) Ms. Lincoln: You got my profound gratitude. Chair Hardemon: And hear what I'm saying to you. And I remember the first time that I met you and I looked you in your face, because you had been trying to get assistance for many, many years -- Ms. Lincoln: Sure. Chair Hardemon: -- and I said, "I'm going to help you." Ms. Lincoln: That's very true. Chair Hardemon: And although it took longer than any of us would have liked -- Trust me, the contractors didn't want to work as long as they did. If they could have been done in 30 days, they would have been, but they did not. But in the end, your property is gorgeous. It provides new rental income to you -- (Applause) Chair Hardemon: -- affordable housing to the people that live there. You, yourself live there. And I understand that it's difficult to get through the minutia and the details of something. And every person that you've worked with that represented you is no longer here to go back and forth with this board, but I assure you that no one wants to do anything more to delay anything that you have that's coming to you. As a matter of fact, the Chairman of the Omni Board is also improving on another one of your properties by - - I think you're doing -- we're doing some improvements on the inside, as well as the outside, to ensure that not only that you have a space that is leasable, that is not an eyesore to the community, that provides just a benefit to the redevelopment area in total. And so, I say that to you to say, "Sometimes it's okay to say 'thank you.'" Ms. Lincoln: All right, Commissioner Keon Hardemon -- Chair Hardemon: And -- Ms. Lincoln: -- listen to me carefully for time constraint now. Chair Hardemon: -- the details -- hear what I'm saying to you. The details of your project that you need very, very personal information from, from any of the staff, you can get it and you'll get it at this meeting. Whatever they can answer for you, you'll get it. But we're not going to delay the meeting further to address you about emails that you SEOPW CRA Page 8 Printed on 12/18/2017 Southeast Overtown/Park West CRA Meeting Minutes October 30, 2017 have with the staff, okay? We thank you, we love you, and we're going to continue to work with you, okay? Ms. Lincoln: You have my sincere profound gratitude to you, what you have done. All right? Chair Hardemon: I couldn't do this by myself. Ms. Lincoln: Yeah -- no. Chair Hardemon: Every one of us up here make this happen -- Ms. Lincoln: But -- Chair Hardemon: -- every single person that's here. The place that we're sitting in right now -- Ms. Lincoln: Commissioner, everyone was under your (UNINTELLIGIBLE) to -- Chair Hardemon: Listen. The person -- the place that we're sitting at right now couldn't be here if it wasn't for the individuals that are sitting up here. Everyone has a role in this. Everyone has a role in this. And so, you know, I just -- I expect of you to be more understanding of that. And so, I appreciate your comments, but we're going to move on with the rest of the meeting so we can get the business taken care of and allow other people to make public comments. Thank you so much. Okay? Ms. Lincoln: All right. He says for me to let you go now. Chair Hardemon: Okay. Thank you. Renita Holmes: Trust me, quit while you're ahead. Madam Renita Holmes. And today I'm simply Madam Renita Holmes. I would like to look you in your eyes when I'm speaking to you, because there's something that I've been wanting to say to you for a while, but today, it's not business at hand. And so, I put aside my feelings, as always. And the business at hand: When someone does a good job and when a leader has great character and shows you sincere integrity, is open-minded, gives you intellectual feedback, allows you to agree and disagree; someone you can trust, even -- although it may not be the best information in your ear, you allow that freedom of speech. You have the courage to accept comments and criticism, and then turn it around and give back feedback. But what most people don't know is that I came here today for you. I came here many days, because your name was there, because I've known you since you were a little boy. Even then, when I was a little girl, we had the same alumni. And when we were in school, we didn't know that this -- We always knew. We voted him the most likely to succeed, and the best looking guy in a suit, because even then, he was kind of like (UNINTELLIGIBLE). You were always a handsome, well-spoken, generous, kind, patient individual, but you showed leadership, because, you know, back then, Allapattah was full of alumni on the honor roll, so you were the baby. But now, I have to look up to you, big brother. But as -- when they said you were coming here as a leader to improve the quality of life to my community, I had faith in that, because I know where you came from, I know where you're going, and it's not like you're a distant person. This is your home. You may be on the other side of District 5, but I know you knew my mama had 13 children, right up the street; I'm just one of 13. But your integrity, your character, your demeanor, your patience, your kindness, your charm, your good looks, your intelligence - - I want to wish you -- don't hate, just congratulate. Unidentified Speaker: Oh, I thought you was talking about me. SEOPW CRA Page 9 Printed on 12/18/2017 Southeast Overtown/Park West CRA Meeting Minutes October 30, 2017 Ms. Holmes: Naw. I'm going to finish. But out of all the times that I come here, I'm not necessarily happy, either, but, you know, I live right across the street. But time -- it takes a great man -- it takes great men, it takes great leadership -- still not happy with the number of women sitting up here, though -- to do what you've done. I never thought that that -- although you had everything to work, that little boy would take us through the great challenge. This was like you're sitting on top of the world, and you -- now you got a target on your forehead. And, you know, you got a big forehead. We could do that back in the days when we could play with each other, you know. But I'm going to tell you something. You're a hell of a businessman, because I've watched you and -- I don't know -- before you even got in that seat, you know. You were the guy that took the Monopoly board and took the thimble and the car and all that, and wanted to be the banker; took a lot of courage. And so, I want to thank you for your courage. Most of all, I thank you for all -- I think to be able to sit there and take it, even from Ms. Lincoln and from me, and you never stopped being my friend, my classmate, my neighbor, my brother, my leader. So I wish you well, and may God continue to bless you and yours. But I feel like you're not getting away easy, because as long as this community does good, you do -- you got a family here. So when you take off that tie, big brother, know you always got family. And please keep coming back to make sure that what you started continues. I love you, Clarence. God bless you. Chair Hardemon: Thank you. (Applause) Grady Muhammad: Mr. Chairman, just briefly. Chair Hardemon: You're recognized, sir. Mr. Muhammad: Grady Muhammad. As a classmate, he graduated a year before I did; Miami Jackson General, '86; he's '85; played defensive back -- he played defensive back. I played wide receiver, so -- and I've known him, like you all; watched him grow, watched him lead; but more importantly, compassion he showed for this community, and he showed for the organizations, for the businesses, the residents; and more important, I think the respect he earned from the board for the simplistic reason he put his heart into it, he put his determination, he had the gall, the gumption, the fortitude, the "huebos" to do what he had to do. And I can tell you personally, serving black folks is hard as hell, straight out. And he did it because he loved it; and more importantly, not just you love -- you got to love what you do, because if you get up every morning and you don't love what you do -- oh, my God. That's why we're going to -- we have and will have a great mayor in Mayor Suarez, because he's in the same mode. He's passionate, he loves the community, he loves the people, and he loves to serve. And I always made it plain. Commissioner Russell, I made it explicitly plain inauguration day. And I'm looking at nothing but what I stated, sir. Politicians serve only themselves. All of you all up there are public servants. You serve the public and not yourselves. Thank you. God bless you all. Chair Hardemon: Thank you, sir. Board Member Suarez: Whew, thank you. Neil Hall: Good afternoon. My name is Neil Hall. I'd like to take this opportunity to thank the board and to thank Mr. Clarence Woods. I'm not an easy person, you know? I'm difficult. I have an opinion and a passion for Overtown, and over the years, for the last 15 years, I've screamed, I have banged my hand on the table, and demand certain things. And I've said this to this brother without him raising his voice to me, you know? And it takes a man of courage and of character. And then I realized that he was a Christian. And so, all of those things may be the reason why he has not emoted in SEOPW CRA Page 10 Printed on 12/18/2017 Southeast Overtown/Park West CRA Meeting Minutes October 30, 2017 response. Clarence, over the last 15 years, I've had many, many debates, philosophical debates, artistic debates, creative debates about what Overtown should be and can be. And I am happy to say that it's because of this board and your leadership, also, that has allowed us, the Urban Collective and our group to spearhead an idea of culture, art and design in Overtown to where we have Soul Basel, Heart Africa that is changing the face of Miami as it pertains to culture, art of our community. And that is a big deal, because it's a confidence that was shown by Commission to say, "Why not?" And that "why not?" has now spawned over 14 different art activities, 365 days of the year in Miami -Dade, and that's a big deal. And again, I wish you all the best. Madam Holmes made some comments about your character. I can't repeat all of them, but they're all very, very, very nice. I would take some of hers and throw it back to you, you know? You have been a friend, you have been a little bit of an adversary, but nonetheless, all through those times, there's enormous respect for you, and I wish you all the best. And I thank the board for making the selections that they have made today, and I would congratulate you, also, sir. And I'm expecting that the work that you started with this board would continue, and I'm sure that with the leadership of our new Mayor that it would proceed to be one of the most dynamic, most progressive, most intellectually appealing space for Overtown. So again, thank you, Clarence, for your hard work, your dedication to this community, and Godspeed. Chair Hardemon: Thank you, sir. Camilla Bridget: Hello. Camilla Bridget, from the Black Archives Historic Lyric Theater; going to be quick, but I just wanted to say to you, Mr. Woods, thank you very much for your support for believing in what the Black Archives has been doing in Overtown. And as many people have said, sometimes getting there has been a back and forth, but in the end, you have supported us. You have seen the vision of our founder through Timothy Barber, through what we've been doing here. We're able to employ people. When everyone came in here, they were greeted by security staff and host -- and ushers, who are Overtown residents, and you have supported us in what we've been trying to do to be a vehicle to help also improve and stimulate this neighborhood. So we thank you for seeing our vision, for helping us to get into this space and making it happen, and for being the messenger a lot of times in difficult situations. But we really appreciate you, and thank you so much for what you've done, as well as the board. Thank you for your continued support. Gerald Muhammad: Good evening. Gerald Muhammad, 807 Northwest 3rd Avenue, Miami, Florida. First and foremost, thank you to the board. And to my partner up there, Clarence, I just want to congratulate you on a dynamic effort. Everyone talked about his professionalism, his integrity in this, but I know this his desire, ever since I met him about 20 years ago. I'm kind of nervous. I don't like to speak like this, but I had to say something, because when you have somebody that's a visionary for a community -- and thank God, this is not a funeral. He's just going across the City. But he's done some -- I been watching the CRA for over 20 years, and the energy that the CRA has now, I've never seen it before. And I know Clarence and Commissioner Hardemon and the board is responsible. But Clarence has a strong desire for this community, and that's the kind of leadership that it takes for a neighborhood like this, and I just want to congratulate you publicly. I spoke to you earlier, but I'm -- We definitely appreciate what you have done and what you all are trying to do, and we're here to help you. So whatever y'all need to help -- for us to help you, look forward to it. And congratulations. Congratulations to Mr. Shriver [sic], also. Thank you. Keon Williams: Keon Williams, Overtown Optimist Club. I actually wear a couple hats. Chairman, thank you for allowing this gentleman to be in the position that he's been in. I probably don't have as many complaints as most people do. I came -- I think I came in under a different situation, being able to bring ideas and have conversations about just ordinary things that, you know, people will pick up, and I think I -- the door has always SEOPW CRA Page 11 Printed on 12/18/2017 Southeast Overtown/Park West CRA Meeting Minutes October 30, 2017 been inviting. It's always been somewhere you can have a conversation with [sic]. Yes, I'm young, but when you talk about community development, if they will let someone or some ideas to inspire to be, I would say I would definitely want to be in that type of position, Neil, because you get a chance to create a community. You get a chance to have a vision, a way forward, and what that thing looks like, and that's just a beautiful thing, you know. And, you know, I'm not sure how old you are, but, you know, in 20 years -- right? -- I expect Overtown to still be vibrant, still be thriving. I'll probably be about 50-something years old, and I know it takes that type of vision much early on to bring a community to what we'll see today and what we'll see in the future. And so, if I can just say thank you just -- for just being someone who listens, someone who gave us a fair shot, someone who just said, you know, "My door is open, and we'll make staff available and resources available," and, you know, that's all I really could say, man; just say thank you. And I know you're going on to do some many -- more great things, and I just say don't forget about us. You know, we'll still be here. And I know we got a great friend in Neil, because I know he's the same way. He's open doors, he listens, and where we can find some common ground, I know there's a will to do so, so I just want to say thank you, Chairman. Chair Hardemon: Thank you very much. Seeing no other persons here for public comment, I'll close the public hearing at this time. CRA RESOLUTION(S) 1. CRA RESOLUTION 3127 A RESOLUTION OF THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OF THE SOUTHEAST OVERTOWN/PARK WEST COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY AUTHORIZING THE EXPENDITURE OF FUNDS, IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $10,000, TO UNDERWRITE COSTS ASSOCIATED WITH EMERGENCY MAINTENANCE FOR CRA PROPERTIES DUE TO DAMAGE CAUSED BY HURRICANE IRMA; 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; ALLOCATING FUNDS FROM SEOPW TAX INCREMENT FUND, ENTITLED "OTHER CONTRACTUAL SERVICES," ACCOUNT CODE NO. 10050.920101.534000.0000.00000. ENACTMENT NUMBER: CRA-R-17-0051 MOTION TO: Adopt RESULT: ADOPTED MOVER: Francis Suarez, Commissioner SECONDER: Wifredo (Willy) Gort, Vice Chair AYES: Hardemon, Gort, Russell, Suarez ABSENT: Carollo Chair Hardemon: Before we go on with the rest of the agenda, I want to make a note that on item RE.2, which is the lease with the Black Archives, on the first page, Section SEOPW CRA Page 12 Printed on 12/18/2017 Southeast Overtown/Park West CRA Meeting Minutes October 30, 2017 2(B), the hours of operation, whoever makes the motion, when we pass the agenda, be sure to include that we amend this revision to allow the executive staff access to the facilities without advance notice, okay? So is there any discussion about any item on the agenda? If there's no discussion, I'd love to entertain a motion. Board Member Suarez: So moved. Chair Hardemon: It'd be the agenda, including the amendment to RE.2, which is to allow the executive staff access to the facilities without advance notice. Vice Chair Gort: Second. Chair Hardemon: Been properly moved and seconded. Any further discussion about the agenda? Seeing none, all in favor of the motion, say "aye." The Board (Collectively): Aye. Chair Hardemon: All against? Motion passes. Ladies and gentlemen, thank you very much. This meeting has come to a conclusion. 2. CRA RESOLUTION 3128 A RESOLUTION OF THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OF THE SOUTHEAST OVERTOWN/PARK WEST COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY ("CRA"), WITH ATTACHMENTS, AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE CRA TO EXECUTE A LEASE AGREEMENT, IN SUBSTANTIALLY THE ATTACHED FORM, WITH THE BLACK ARCHIVES, HISTORY AND RESEARCH FOUNDATION OF SOUTH FLORIDA, INC. FOR THE CRA'S OFFICE SPACE AT THE LYRIC THEATER COMPLEX, 819 NW 2ND AVENUE, 3RD FLOOR, MIAMI, FLORIDA, FOR A TERM OF THREE (3) YEARS, WITH ONE (1) OPTION TO RENEW FOR A TERM OF THREE (3) ADDITIONAL YEARS, COMMENCING OCTOBER 1, 2017, WITH RENT SET AT $6,000 PER MONTH, OR AN ANNUAL AMOUNT OF $72,000, INCLUDING TAXES AND UTILITIES; FURTHER RATIFYING AN EXPENDITURE OF FUNDS IN THE AMOUNT OF $24,000 FOR THE CRA'S RENT PAYMENT FROM JUNE 1, 2017 THROUGH SEPTEMBER 30, 2017; FUNDS TO BE ALLOCATED FROM GENERAL OPERATING FUND ENTITLED "RENTAL AND LEASES," ACCOUNT CODE NO. 10050.920101.544000.0000.00000 AS FOLLOWS: $24,000 DURING FY 2016/2017; $72,000 DURING FY 2017/2018; $72,000 DURING FY 2018/2019; $72,000 DURING FY 2019/2020. ENACTMENT NUMBER: CRA-R-17-0052 MOTION TO: Adopt with Modification(s) RESULT: ADOPTED WITH MODIFICATION(S) MOVER: Francis Suarez, Commissioner SECONDER: Wifredo (Willy) Gort, Vice Chair AYES: Hardemon, Gort, Russell, Suarez ABSENT: Carollo Note for the Record: For minutes referencing Agenda Item 2, please see Agenda Item 1. SEOPW CRA Page 13 Printed on 12/18/2017 Southeast Overtown/Park West CRA Meeting Minutes October 30, 2017 3. CRA RESOLUTION 3129 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 $50,000, TO GROOVIN' BEAN, LLC, TO UNDERWRITE COSTS ASSOCIATED WITH UNFORESEEN CONSTRUCTION COSTS FOR THE BUILD OUT OF "GROOVIN' BEAN COFFEE BAR & LOUNGE"; 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; ALLOCATING FUNDS FROM SEOPW, "OTHER GRANTS AND AIDS," ACCOUNT CODE NO. 10050.920101.883000.0000.00000. ENACTMENT NUMBER: CRA-R-17-0053 MOTION TO: Adopt RESULT: ADOPTED MOVER: Francis Suarez, Commissioner SECONDER: Wifredo (Willy) Gort, Vice Chair AYES: Hardemon, Gort, Russell, Suarez ABSENT: Carollo Note for the Record: For minutes referencing Agenda Item 3, please see Agenda Item 1. SEOPW CRA Page 14 Printed on 12/18/2017 Southeast Overtown/Park West CRA Meeting Minutes October 30, 2017 4. CRA RESOLUTION 3130 A RESOLUTION OF THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OF THE SOUTHEAST OVERTOWN/PARK WEST COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY AUTHORIZING THE EXPENDITURE OF FUNDS, IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $120,000, TO UNDERWRITE COSTS ASSOCIATED WITH THE DEVELOPMENT AND MAINTENANCE OF TWO (2) MONUMENT SIGNS IN OVERTOWN; AUTHORIZING THE CRA TO ENTER INTO AGREEMENTS WITH THE CITY OF MIAMI'S OFFICE OF CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS AND PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT TO DEVELOP AND MAINTAIN THE SIGN THAT WILL BE LOCATED AT NW 3RD AVENUE BETWEEN NW 8TH STREET AND NW 9TH STREET; 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; ALLOCATING FUNDS FROM SEOPW TAX INCREMENT FUND, ENTITLED "OTHER GRANTS AND AIDS," ACCOUNT CODE NO. 10050.920101.883000.0000.00000. ENACTMENT NUMBER: CRA-R-17-0054 MOTION TO: Adopt RESULT: ADOPTED MOVER: Francis Suarez, Commissioner SECONDER: Wifredo (Willy) Gort, Vice Chair AYES: Hardemon, Gort, Russell, Suarez ABSENT: Carollo Note for the Record: For minutes referencing Agenda Item 4, please see Agenda Item 1. SEOPW CRA Page 15 Printed on 12/18/2017 Southeast Overtown/Park West CRA Meeting Minutes October 30, 2017 5. CRA RESOLUTION 3131 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 $750,000 TO THE CITY OF MIAMI TO UNDERWRITE COSTS ASSOCIATED WITH ENHANCED POLICING SERVICES WITHIN THE REDEVELOPMENT AREA; 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; FURTHER AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR TO EXECUTE ALL DOCUMENTS NECESSARY FOR SAID PURPOSE; ALLOCATING FUNDS FROM SEOPW, "OTHER GRANTS AND AIDS," ACCOUNT CODE NO. 10050.920101.883000.0000.00000. MOTION TO: Defer RESULT: DEFERRED MOVER: Ken Russell, Commissioner SECONDER: Wifredo (Willy) Gort, Vice Chair AYES: Hardemon, Gort, Russell, Suarez ABSENT: Carollo Note for the Record: Item RE.5 was deferred to the January 2018, Southeast Overtown/Park West CRA Meeting. Chair Hardemon: Let's move on now with the business. Jackie Bell: Just one minute, Mr. Chairman. Chair Hardemon: One second. I'm about to open the floor for public comment. One second. If you are here from the public and you'd like to speak on any of the items that's on the agenda today -- oh, be -- and I want to -- Well, before I open it up, there is an item -- I believe it is RE.6 -- is it 6? No. It is RE.5. RE.5 is in need of a continuance; isn't that true? Clarence Woods (Executive Director, Southeast Overtown/Park West Community Redevelopment Agency): Yes. Chair Hardemon: Mr. Woods? Mr. Woods: Yes. Commander's been out for the last month after surgery, and she'd prefer that we roll this over. Chair Hardemon: So we will be deferring this to the January meeting. So is there a motion to defer? Vice Chair Gort: RE.5? Chair Hardemon: 5, 5, correct. Board Member Gort: (UNINTELLIGIBLE). SEOPW CRA Page 16 Printed on 12/18/2017 Southeast Overtown/Park West CRA Meeting Minutes October 30, 2017 Board Member Russell: Police. Chair Hardemon: Right. Vice Chair Gort: Second it. Chair Hardemon: It's been properly moved and seconded to defer RE.5 to the January -- Unidentified Speaker: What date in January? Chair Hardemon: We don't have a date certain, but at the January meeting. We only have typically one meeting. Any further discussion on that? Hearing none, all in favor, say "aye." The Board (Collectively): Aye. Chair Hardemon: That motion passes. 6. CRA RESOLUTION 3132 A RESOLUTION OF THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OF THE SOUTHEAST OVERTOWN/PARK WEST COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY AUTHORIZING GRANT, IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $900,000 , TO MIAMI DADE COLLEGE ("MDC") TO UNDERWRITE COSTS ASSOCIATED WITH THE OPERATION OF THE HOSPITALITY AND CULINARY INSTITUTE AT A LOCATION WITHIN THE REDEVELOPMENT AREA, FOR A FOUR-YEAR PERIOD, IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $225,000 PER YEAR, SUBJECT TO THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE, ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ADMINISTRATION AMENDING AWARD NO. 04-79-06827 TO REMOVE MDC AS A CO -RECIPIENT; FURTHER AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE CRA TO TERMINATE A REVOCABLE LICENSE BY AND BETWEEN THE CRA AND MDC IN CONNECTION WITH THE USE OF THE OVERTOWN PERFORMING ARTS CENTER (FORMERLY THE EBENEZER CHURCH) 1074 NW 3RD AVENUE, MIAMI, FL; 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. ENACTMENT NUMBER: CRA-R-17-0055 SEOPW CRA Page 17 Printed on 12/18/2017 Southeast Overtown/Park West CRA Meeting Minutes October 30, 2017 MOTION TO: Adopt RESULT: ADOPTED MOVER: Francis Suarez, Commissioner SECONDER: Wifredo (Willy) Gort, Vice Chair AYES: Hardemon, Gort, Russell, Suarez ABSENT: Carollo Note for the Record: For minutes referencing Agenda Item 6, please see Agenda Item I. NON -AGENDA ITEM(S) 7. CRA RESOLUTION 3217 A RESOLUTION OF THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OF THE SOUTHEAST OVERTOWN/PARK WEST COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY ("SEOPW CRA") APPOINTING MR. CORNELIUS SHIVER AS THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE SEOPW CRA. ENACTMENT NUMBER: CRA-R-17-0056 MOTION TO: Adopt RESULT: ADOPTED MOVER: Francis Suarez, Commissioner SECONDER: Keon Hardemon, Chair AYES: Hardemon, Gort, Russell, Suarez ABSENT: Carollo Chair Hardemon: And what I'd like to do is ask this board to accept his tender of resignation, and adopt his recommendation to continue the continuity of this organization by appointing his assistant director as the new director. Board Member Suarez: So moved. Chair Hardemon: It's been properly moved, and I'll second it as Chairman, the appointment of the assistant director as the new director to succeed Mr. Woods. I guess that would be effective over the next month or so. Unidentified Speaker: Yes. Chair Hardemon: Any further discussion about that? Hearing none, all in favor of that, say "aye." The Board (Collectively): Aye. Chair Hardemon: That motion passes. SEOPW CRA Page 18 Printed on 12/18/2017 Southeast Overtown/Park West CRA Meeting Minutes October 30, 2017 ADJOURNMENT The meeting adjourned at 5:44 p.m. SEOPW CRA Page 19 Printed on 12/18/2017