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HomeMy WebLinkAboutSubmittal-Public Comments Submitted Online for the December 14, 2023 City Commission MeetingCommission Report Public Comment Report for the December 14, 2023 Regular City Commission Meeting December 14, 2023 1:29 PM MST Public Comment motero@miamigov.com First Last Nam Nam e e LLoy Eme d Lte Jan Stre et Addr ess 340 SE 3rd St. Mia mi, FL 900 Bisc ayne Sch Blvd weg 502 man Mia n mi, FL 3313 2 4171 Jenn Varg Pam y as ona Ave Age nda Public Comment Item I am writing to voice my support for increased environmental stewardship and enforcement on the Spoil DI. 1 Islands. As a unique ecosystem and rookery right off the shores of downtown Miami, these man-made #149 islands and the wildlife that call them home must be actively protected. I urge the Town Council to fully 95 implement the Leave No Trace policy that was recently passed in order to keep the islands free of titter Disc and human impact. Clear signage educating visitors, dedicated dean -up days, and fines for tittering could ussi make a significant difference. Most importantly, I ask that you immediately increase marine patrols around on - the Spoil Islands to discourage trespassing and illegal activity that disturbs nesting birds and marine Life. D2 Patrolling the shore Line, especially during nesting seasons, and prohibiting watercraft from Landing on the Park islands without proper access permits can help safeguard the habitats and species that rely on these Impr islands. The Spoil Islands are a unique treasure that provide shelter and nesting grounds for seabirds, sea ove turtles, and other witdtife right off Miami's shores. I urge you to make their environmental protection and men stewardship a top priority through policy change and proactive enforcement. The actions we take today is wilt determine whether future generations can enjoy Miami's natural spoils. I welcome the opportunity to speak further at an upcoming Town Council meeting. Thank you for your consideration. PZ. 24 #151 09 Zoni ng Text Recr eatio naL Facit ities Agenda item 24 and 26 On Nov 15th the Planning zoning and Appeal board approved an appeal that revoked a Warrant by the Planning department. The city has issued the warrant to build an outdoor gym in Maurice Ferre Park. The warrant was revoked because the installation was in sharp contrast to the master plan, a plan that many residents trusted in, and the park mgmt. and city completely failed to include the public into the process. The park management argued with a marketing video that people Like the park and the gym. Ns mind that this was never about people Liking or not Liking the gym or the dog park. This was about following the right process. Just because I Like a change does not mean I am willing to ignore the right process. Sticking to a masterpLan is key and involving the public in changes is essential Agenda item 24 is therefore even more surprising as now the city is coming to you and asking you to change the process completely ignoring the feedback from this discussion: Public Outreach. Instead of designing an approach that increases public outreach, the city is now asking the commission to allow Recreational Facilities by Right in "CS" Civic Space Transect Zone instead of by warrant. This means eliminating any kind of public input. It is the opposite of what the city was asked to do. Its curtailing the democratic process making park management essentially an autocracy that wilt result in public spending that is not in Line with public interest because the public is no has a say. ALL that under the disguise of efficiency since the city thinks the warrant process takes too Long. I am asking you to turn down the appeal to change to by right (as recommended by the Planning ands zoning Appel Board) and uphold the decision that was taken by the PZAB on Nov 15th with regards to the revocation of the warrant. CA. 15 #151 20 City Attorney Mendez has been complicit in the City's corruption and dysfunction and dearly does not Rea have the best interest of the City at the forefront. Her famity's profiting from the county's guardianship ppoi program represents a dear conflict of interest and abuse of power. Mendez should either step down or be ntm fired. We need a City Attorney who wilt consistently act in the best interest of the City's people -- not in ent - the interests of her political cronies and family members. City Attor ney 15259 Submittal -Public Comments Submitted Online for the December 14, 2023 City Commission Meeting First Last Nam Nam e e Maji Chri s Stre et Addr ess Age nda Public Comment Item DI. 1 #149 95 555 Disc NE ussi Ram 56 on - os St D2 Mia Park mi Impr ove men Topc 900 zew bisc ski ayne is PZ. 26 #151 13 PZA B Deci sion App eal- 1095 Bisc ayne Blvd Dear Commissioners, Since last month's resolution that deleted the language regarding motorized vessels we have witnessed countless jetskis and boats harassing the birds and speeding at very high speed within very dose proximity to the rookery at Mangrove Island. I emaited video and photos. We have tried contacting FWC to no avail. They are not even responding. We have been told they do not have the staff to regulate or enforce boating activity in the aquatic preserve including Mangrove Island. The no name storm caused distress to wildlife and our shoreline. There were several birds that died and we lost 10 trees in Morningside Park during that storm, most along the shore. We are currently experiencing another storm and based on my videos yesterday morning it is already having dire effects on the island and our shore. Additionally last month we witnessed jetskis intentionally chasing endangered seabirds next to the rookery and countless reports on speeding. In the last 2.5 months, five Brown Pelicans,one Magnificent Frigatebird and two Ibis have died preventable and horrific deaths at the recently confirmed Mangrove rookery off the Morningside shoreline. Four of the Pelicans and one Magnificent Frigatebird were tangled in fishing lines, three were injured by motor vessels and I'm sure there are many more. There has also been an increase in seabird injuries including fractures. There have not been sightings of nesting brown pelicans for a very Long time in the northern basin of Biscayne Bay and there are over ten nests at the Mangrove rookery. There are over 24 MagnificentFrigatebirds that are showing signs of nesting on the east side of the rookery. The only other place they nest in North America is Long Key and the Dry Tortugas! These are the only known breeding grounds in the US. This is a species of high conservation concern. Bird Key, the historic rookery dating back to the 1920's located off Belle Meade, sadly collapsed in 2019 due to an increase of jetski traffic. We suspect that many of the marine birds that fled that rookery moved to Mangrove rookery off Morningside. Enforcement is not working. We need : • A no motorized vessel buffer around Mangrove Island • No fishing along the shore or the island • Enforcement of no wake zone in the manatee and rookery area. • Enforcement of signs with no boats/jetskis/ jetcars at the floating dock in the park. • Enforcement of no fishing signs on the floating dock and 59 St. • Enforcement of the City Code on the islands: Sec. 38-60. - Boating, vessels, and other watercraft. (a) Boats may be launched only where ramps have been provided. Anchoring, mooring, or docking of boats on any city park's property shoreline, other than at established ramps, is prohibited This wilt end the Jetski "ferry" business operating from the floating dock and wilt greatly diminish the garbage left on the islands which washes ashore, is killing wildlife and is dangerous for people on kayaks and paddle boards. • Signage and enforcement of Leave No Trace on the picnic islands and Morningside shoreline. • Educational campaign with signage dose to the shoreline: a) What is a rookery, why are they important? There are only 3 left in Biscayne Bay) b) The effect of pollution (killing seabirds right off the shore and other wildlife, including another fish kilt if it persists. c) Responsible fishing practices and why it is important. • Immediate stop to use of toxic chemicals for weed management in Morningside. I have photos from a month ago that they are stilt in use. • Evaluation of the trees and a plan to strengthen them along w instructions to the park staff on how to protect the trees and not mow or weed whack damaging roots. Our wildlife, waterways and trees are suffering as a result of human interference. We are the direct cause and it is our responsibility to protect this for the health of Biscayne Bay, the 64 billion dollar economy it represents which includes boating and protection of our property values. As a FL Realtor and past property owner in Sanibel, and Miami Beach condos, I have first hand knowledge of what can happen if our waterways are in distress. It should also be very concerning to you as our elected officials. This affects us all. Sincerely, Maji Ramos Morningside resident Morningside Resiliency Ambassador Miami Realtor since 1993 2nd Generation Realtor Miami native Maji Green Initiative 305-519-7940 1 majigreeninitiative@gmailcom Dear Members of the Zoning Board, I am writing to express my concerns regarding Item pz 26 #15113, currently under your consideration. It has come to my attention that this proposal may have originated under questionable circumstances, involving a potential conflict of interest by an elected official. This situation raises serious concerns about the integrity and fairness of the process. Our city's parks and recreational areas are vital to our community, and it is imperative that any changes or developments in these areas are made with the utmost consideration for public interest and involvement. Item pz 26 #15113 as it stands, seems to undermine this principle by potentially limiting public input on matters that directly affect our shared spaces and quality of life. Previously, this board has shown commendable resolve in upholding the rights of residents to be heard on city projects. I respectfully urge you to continue demonstrating this commitment to democratic principles by voting against Item pz 26 #15113. It is essential that the city and entities like the Bayfront Park Management Trust adhere to established plans and processes, ensuring that all changes are made transparently and with due public engagement. Thank you for considering my viewpoint on this important issue. Your decision in this matter wilt significantly impact our community, and I trust that you wilt act in the best interests of the citizens you serve. Sincerely, Christopher Topczewski 900 biscayne First Last Nam Nam e e Eric Ana Stre et Addr ess Age nda Public Comment Item PZ. 26 #151 13 888 PZA Bisc B Hay ayne Deci es Boul sion ever App d eat - 1095 Bisc ayne Blvd Mira nda 668 NE 70 Stre et Mia mi, FLori da 3313 8 1215 Sout Dr h Rac Akiki Mia hid mi Aven ue Good morning. I'm hoping city Commisioner Joe Corollo "Has some real fun today with Mr. Torres and company and that you all remembered to bring your Popcorn." What kind of person, especially an elected city official makes comments like this, directed towards people that live in a neighborhood that dedicate tax dollars, time and energy to voice concerns and vote for inclusion and information about plans to change a parks original master design plan? City council members should stand up to or at least address this bizzare and intimidating speech and bullying behavior. If I said something like this at my job as a teacher, I'd be fired on the spot. DI. 1 I live in Bayside Historic District which includes Baywood Park. There has been a privately owned large #149 party boat vessel anchored near the shoreline of the park for several weeks. The owner, who I understand 95 Lives in an adjacent community and having work done to their private dock has anchored their vessel in Disc this area in the meantime. This is an endangered sea bed, sea grass, and manatee habitat. It is adjacent ussi to the mangrove islands in the bay that are home to native birds. Allowing this vessel to anchor in this on - area is opening the door to more of this activity which further endangers the sea bed and wildlife. We also D2 do not want to encourage party boats, with the noise and garbage that often accompanies them. So far, Park this has not been an issue with the current vessel, but this is a precedent we dont need. I am on the I mpr board of the Bayside Residents Association, working on resiliency. I understand there is an ordinance that ove prohibits anchoring near the shoreline of a City of Miami Park. There needs to be more enforcement and men an end to Long term anchoring in an environmentally sensitive habitat. We would appreciate immediate is attention to this matter. Ladies and Gentlemen of the Commission, I come before you today to speak about Thyme Machine, a food truck Located at 1200 BrickeLt Avenue, which has become a beloved part of the BrickeLt community. Our truck is not just a business; it's a passion project born from a deep, personal story. Thyme Machine PZ. was founded as a way for me, Dr. Rachid Akiki, to honor the memory of my Late grandmother. She passed PZ - away in 2018, and unfortunately, I couldn't be with her in her Last moments. This food truck is my vessel PLA to travel back in time, to re Live and share the flavors and warmth of her kitchen. Our presence in BrickeLt NNI adds a unique touch to the culinary scene, offering authentic flavors and a sense of community. We are NG Law-abiding citizens, paying taxes and striving to comply with all regulations. However, we are currently AND facing a significant challenge regarding the Certificate of Use due to a zoning restriction that prevents food ZON trucks from operating within a 500-foot radius of certain establishments. We respectfully request an I NG amendment to this clause, specifically for our Location at 1200 BrickeLt Avenue. This amendment would ITE allow us to obtain the necessary Certificate of Use and continue serving our community. Our request is not M(S) merely for a business concession but a plea to maintain a connection that were built with the people of BrickeLt—a connection that goes beyond food to touch on heritage, culture, and personal history. Thank you for considering our request and for your continued support of Local businesses and the diverse cultural fabric they represent. Sincerely, Dr. Rachid Akiki Founder, Thyme Machine First Last Nam Nam e e Jan Ivne et Stre et Addr ess Age nda Public Comment Item On Nov 15th the Planning zoning and Appeal board approved an appeal that revoked a Warrant by the Planning department. The city has issued the warrant to build an outdoor gym in Maurice Ferre Park. The PZ. warrant was revoked because the installation was in sharp contrast to the master plan, a plan that many 26 residents trusted in, and the park mgmt. and city completely failed to include the public into the process. 900 #151 The park management argued with a marketing video that people Like the park and the gym. Rs mind Bisc 13 that this was never about people Liking or not Liking the gym or the dog park. This was about following the ayne PZA right process. Just because I Like a change does not mean I am wilting to ignore the right process. Sticking Sch Blvd B to a masterpLan is key and involving the public in changes is essential Agenda item 24 is therefore even weg 502 Deci more surprising as now the city is coming to you and asking you to change the process completely man Mia sion ignoring the feedback from this discussion: Public Outreach. Instead of designing an approach that n mi , App increases public outreach, the city is now asking the commission to allow Recreational Facilities by Right FL eaL - in "CS" Civic Space Transect Zone instead of by warrant. This means eliminating any kind of public input. 3313 1095 It is the opposite of what the city was asked to do. Its curtailing the democratic process making park 2 Bisc management essentially an autocracy that wilt result in public spending that is not in Line with public ayne interest because the public is no has a say. ALL that under the disguise of efficiency since the city thinks Blvd the warrant process takes to Long. I am asking you to turn down the appeal to change to by right (as recommended by the Planning ands zoning Appel Board) and uphold the decision that was taken by the PZAB on Nov 15th with regards to the revocation of the warrant. Kaur PZ. 26 #151 13 PZA 900 B Bisc Deci ayne sion bLvd App eaL- 1095 Bisc ayne Blvd PZ. 26 #151 13 PZA 900 B Soni Merc Bisc Deci a h ayne sion Blvd App eaL- 1095 Bisc ayne Blvd Please Leave the green spaces alone in Maurice Ferre park and stop building more and putting more things in it. It's one place which provides some greenery and peaceful place amidst the noise and concrete of downtonw. The big statues block the water view need to be removed asap and no more building and putting more things in park. Green spaces are critical for mental and physical health of people. Please Let our park Live. Please maintain the serenity of MAF park! It's a sweet oasis that showcases that even in the heart of the city, there can be moments of stillness. Also, its simply wrong to make changes without consulting the master plan or gathering community input. Thanks First Last Nam Nam e e Nicol Desi e derio Bria n Burli nga me Stre et Addr ess 900 Bisc ayne Blvd, Mia mi, FL 3313 2 Age nda Public Comment Item PZ. 26 #151 13 PZA The Bayfront Park Management Trust run by Joe Carrillo has done a horrible job managing the Maurice A B Ferre park. Decisions are being made about the park by people that have no business being in charge and Deci without the input of the neighborhood. The park director Miguel Ferro never responds to emaiLs, or sion responds with a very generic answer. Joe Carrillo does not care about the citizens of the community. He is App only concerned with his own personal gain from all the projects he seeks to pave over the park with. eal - Please do not grant them the appeal they are seeking. 1095 Bisc ayne Blvd PZ. 26 #151 13 The Commission should uphold the decision of the PZAB to remove the illegally and wrecklessly installed PZA metal exercise equipment in Maurice Ferre Park. Further, the Commission should consider removing 900 B Commissioner Carrillo as Chair of the Bayfront Park Management Trust on the grounds that under his Bisc Deci direction the Trust has wantonly ignored the Master Plan for Maurice Ferre Park and has removed and ayne sion installed structures and vegetation with no regard for the Master Plan, aesthetic design, viable and Blvd App coherent landscaping, nor the needs and concerns of the regular users of the Park and the wishes of the eal - taxpayers that sustain it. Instead, Commissioner Carollo and the Trust seek to commercialize the Park 1095 and treat it as a space for revenue generation and personal projects rather than public enjoyment. Bisc ayne Blvd 8000 DI. 1 West #149 Driv 95 e, Disc The Miami -Dade County Marine Debris Working Group is actively working to address marine debris issues, Nort ussi and has identified Spoil Islands as a significant contributor to the trash entering Biscayne Bay. Many of Dav Doe h on - these spoil islands are deeded to City of Miami, who should - but are not - manage these island parks at e bler Bay D2 the same service eves as terrestrial parks. The County is working on a comprehensive approach, Villa Park including an engagement with the Leave No Trace non-profit organization - including an activation at the ge, I mpr end of February. The City of Miami staff should join our working group and fold into what we are doing. FL ove 3314 men 1 is Bria n Kern 900 Bisc ayne Blvd PZ. 24 #151 09 Zoni ng Text Recr eatio nal Facit ities This is a disgraceful, flagrant attempt by Commissioner Carollo to circumvent the desire of Miami residents to have a say in their parks. Please vote no. Stre First Last Age et Nam Nam Addr nda Public Comment e e Item ess PZ. 127 3 NE 43rd #146 stree 76 This is a historic neighborhood with tree lined streets historic oaks and character. They should not change Rez the zoning as it will block the light to these trees increase density of which the area is already jammed Alisa Pitch t onin with traffic. The Miami 21 should stay. May I note the form sent was cropped badly and barely legible and enik Mia g - the website had a 404 error. This is not proper for Public notice and should render my public notice void mi FL 171 due to illegibility. I have kept my notice which is ineffective for communicating the information. NE 3313 42 7 St PZ. 26 #151 900 13 Bisc PZA ayne Blvd B This is about more than the gym equipment in Maurice Ferre Park. This is about a commissioner who mich feuLi Deci allows for no input from the community and ignores a master plan which has been approved the city. The Mia ael ng sion voters of District 3 spoke when they elected Damien Prado who ran on a platform to stop corruption. Now mi, FL App it is the time for the commission to stand up to Joe CaroLlo and say ENOUGH! eal- 3313 1095 2 Bisc ayne Blvd PZ. 22 Why give this kind of upzoning just to this small area and not all of 4th ave. There is a housing shortage #149 and you're only giving this upzoning to a three properties that are all a part of the Miami River Inn. It is 86 also upsetting that there is no commercial zoning east of 8th ave in tittle havana, but giving it just to the 246 Rez brain trust of the Miami River Inn seems Like a way of shutting everyone else in the community out. There onin Fran Sw will be more noise since they will have a Larger dub and bar or even a dining spot there. No one else gets k Hal 6th g to have that. NO ONE. Give this upzoning to everyone in East LittLe Havana. ALSO - there is the new Ave SW Desantis zoning that would give the Miami river inn the opportunity to totally transform the property Like the controversial Clevelander Hotel in the beach. This is the only historic property of value in the Sout neighborhood and it the only one being considered for upzoning and it is the only one that would be h totally altered by the upzoning. Rive r Dr End of Report