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HomeMy WebLinkAboutOMNI CRA 2019-02-19 MinutesCity of Miami 3500 Pan American Dr Miami, FL 33133 www.miamigov.com Omni C R A Meeting Minutes Tuesday, February 19, 2019 5:00 PM Ampersand Studios 31 NE 17th Street Miami, FL 33132 OMNI Community Redevelopment Agency Ken Russell, Chair, District Two Keon Hardemon, Vice Chair, District Five Wifredo (Willy) Gort, Board Member, District One Joe Carollo, Board Member, District Three Manolo Reyes, Board Member, District Four OMNI and MIDTOWN CRA OFFICE ADDRESS: 1401 N. Miami Avenue, 2nd Floor, Miami 33136 Phone: (305) 679-6868 www.miamicra.com CALL TO ORDER OMNI Community Redevelopment Agency Marked Agenda February 19, 2019 Present: Chair Russell, Commissioner Gort and Commissioner Reyes Absent: Vice Chair Hardemon and Commissioner Carollo On the 19th day of February 2019, the Board of Commissioners of the OMNI Community Redevelopment Agency of the City of Miami met in regular session at Ampersand Studios located at 31 Northeast 17th Street, Miami, Florida. The meeting was called to order by Chair Russell at 5:11 p.m., and was adjourned at 5:53 p.m. ALSO PRESENT: Jason Walker, Executive Director, CRA Isiaa Jones, Chief Legal Officer, CRA Barnaby L. Min, Deputy General Counsel, CRA Todd B. Hannon, Clerk of the Board Chair Russell: Good evening, everybody. Thank you for coming to this board meeting of the Omni Community Redevelopment Agency. Present are myself Chairman Ken Russell; also present on the dais is Commissioner Manolo Reyes, Commissioner Wifredo Gort. OMNI CRA DISCUSSION ITEM(S) 1. OMNI CRA DISCUSSION 5500 OMNI CRA ADDITIONAL FINANCING. RESULT: NO ACTION TAKEN 2. OMNI CRA DISCUSSION 5126 DISCUSSION ITEM REGARDING OMNI CRA PROJECTS. RESULT: NO ACTION TAKEN 3. OMNI CRA DISCUSSION 5127 DISCUSSION ITEM REGARDING THE REBRANDING OF OMNI CRA LOGO AND WEBSITE. RESULT: NO ACTION TAKEN OMNI CRA RESOLUTION(S) 1. OMNI CRA RESOLUTION 5248 A RESOLUTION OF THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OF THE OMNI REDEVELOPMENT DISTRICT COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY ("CRA") AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR TO EXECUTE A PURCHASE AND SALE AGREEMENT ("AGREEMENT"), IN A FORM ACCEPTABLE TO THE GENERAL COUNSEL, BETWEEN THE CRA AND OMNI Community Redevelopment Agency Page 2 Printed on 4/8/2019 OMNI Community Redevelopment Agency Marked Agenda February 19, 2019 MIA TOWNERS, LLC FOR THE ACQUISITION OF REAL PROPERTY LOCATED AT 1428 NW 1ST AVENUE, MIAMI, FLORIDA 33136 CONTAINING AN APPROXIMATE TOTAL LOT AREA OF 7860 SQUARE FEET ("PROPERTY") FOR A TOTAL PURCHASE PRICE NOT TO EXCEED THREE HUNDRED NINETY THREE THOUSAND DOLLARS ($393,000.00) CONTINGENT UPON THE CRA OBTAINING A WRITTEN APPRAISAL FROM A LICENSED FLORIDA APPRAISER STATING THAT THE APPRAISED VALUE OF THE PROPERTY IS AT A MINIMUM THE REFERENCED AMOUNT HEREIN; FURTHER AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR TO NEGOTIATE AND EXECUTE ANY AND ALL NECESSARY DOCUMENTS, INCLUDING ANY AMENDMENTS AND MODIFICATIONS TO SAID AGREEMENT, IN A FORM ACCEPTABLE TO THE GENERAL COUNSEL, THAT MAY BE NECESSARY TO EFFECTUATE SAID ACQUISITION; ALLOCATING FUNDS FROM ACCOUNT NO. 10040.920501.661000 IN A TOTAL AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED FOUR HUNDRED FIFTY THOUSAND DOLLARS ($450,000.00) INCLUSIVE OF SAID ACQUISITION, THE COST OF A SURVEY, ENVIRONMENTAL REPORT, TITLE INSURANCE, AND RELATED CLOSING COSTS ASSOCIATED WITH SAID ACQUISITION, ALL IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF THE AGREEMENT; AUTHORIZING GENERAL COUNSEL TO ENGAGE OUTSIDE COUNSEL FOR THE PURPOSES OF THE CLOSING. ENACTMENT NUMBER: CRA-R-19-0001 MOTION TO: Adopt RESULT: ADOPTED MOVER: Manolo Reyes, Board Member, District Four SECONDER: Wifredo (Willy) Gort, Board Member, District One AYES: Russell, Gort, Reyes ABSENT: Hardemon, Carollo Chair Russell: 1'll save the discussion items for after. I'd like to take RE.3, and table that for the moment, as it's a four -fifths. And we'll take up Items RE.1, 2, 4, 6, and 7, but before I do that, I'd like to open the floor for public comment. If there's anyone here who'd like to speak on any of the items on the agenda today, please step forward to the microphone, and feel five to state your name, which item you'd like to speak about, and we'd love to hear your comments. Seeing none, I'll close public comment, and we'll take up as a slate Items REs.1, 2, 4, 6, and 7. Is there a motion? Board Member Reyes: Wait a minute. I -- Chair Russell: I will go through them, if you'd like. So -- Board Member Reyes: Please. Chair Russell: -- RE.1 is a purchase of a lot, which we will use for affordable housing. It's zoned T4. It's well placed, and it's a good price for us to do an affordable housing project. Board Member Reyes: Okay. Chair Russell: RE.2 is a -- approving a relocation plan. So that's where we're doing a -- at least one of our projects is a restaurant redevelopment, where we can help relocate folks that are there right now on a week -to -week basis, for rent. 01YINI Community Redevelopment Agency Page 3 Printed on 4/8/2019 OMNI Community Redevelopment Agency Marked Agenda February 19, 2019 Board Member Reyes: For relocation purposes? Chair Russell: Yes. RE.4 is giving the Executive Director the ability to work on short-term revocable licenses, so that he doesn't need to go through so much bureaucracy as the City or us in -- to approve short-term agreements. Later... Chair Russell: Why don't we do it this way? Can I get a motion on RE.1, please? We'll take them one at a time. RE.1 is the lot purchase for affordable housing. Can I get a motion for RE.1 to purchase a lot for affordable housing? Board Member Reyes: RE.1, yes. The money is going to come from the proceeds that you receive from -- the funds that you receive from the -- Jason Walker (Executive Director, Omni Community Redevelopment Agency): No. Board Member Reyes: -- (UNINTELLIGIBLE)? Chair Russell: Is that a question for the Executive Director of how we're going to pay for this? Mr. Walker: (UNINTELLIGIBLE), sir. Board Member Reyes: I move it. Mr. Walker: Thank you. Chair Russell: It's been moved by Commissioner Reyes; seconded by -- Board Member Gort: I'll second, but I want to make sure they look into the ability of making mixed -use -- Mr. Walker: Making what? Board Member Gort: -- parking rate and affordable -- Mr. Walker: Yes, sir. Board Member Gort: -- and what kind of business it's going to benefit around there. Board Member Reyes: That's right. Mr. Walker: Yes, sir. Chair Russell: Thank you. Board Member Gort: Come on; this is something we need, guys. If you cannot provide jobs, the people that live there cannot afford to go to the stores. We have something about retails. We want to have retails. We want to have restaurants. How many people are going to the restaurant? How many people is going to the stores? Chair Russell: Absolutely. Board Member Gort: If they don't have the money, they can't buy it. OMNI Community Redevelopment Agency Page 4 Printed on 4/8/2019 OMNI Community Redevelopment Agency Marked Agenda February 19, 2019 Chair Russell: It's not just housing; it's jobs and business. And we're hosted today by an investment -- by the CRA, a small investment that's allowing a work space that creates jobs and creates an opportunity for someone to start a small business at a cheap rate with good rent. Board Member Reyes: No. Now that we're talking about creating businesses and start business, do you have in your -- in -- I mean, in the activities that you do, a business creation program, where you are promoting minority businesses in the -- businesses that have been established here? Like, for example, providing seed money from the CRA -- Mr. Walker: Yes. Board Member Reyes: -- providing seed money, training jor people that want to go into business? Because that is the function of a CRA. Mr. Walker: Yes, sir. We -- Board Member Reyes: That's why 1 asked Overtown -- Mr. Walker: Yes. Over the past three years -- Board Member Reyes: -- Parkwest CRA, I asked them about that, and they are -- they're establishing a program for residents of Overtown, so they can start the businesses. And we want to work with small business -- United States small business agencies, that we are going to try to get funds, and then try to start people that live in that area -- Mr. Walker: Yes. And what -- Board Member Reyes: -- so they can start their own businesses. Mr. Walker: -- we've done over the past two years, Commissioner, is spent $1.5 million on projects like this, at $100,000 apiece, and we don't look at the people; we more look at the blighted buildings. So if there's a business, like this was a old, abandoned gym, there -- we gave them $100,000 for the City and County fees. There's Tomorrowland that's been abandoned for 20 years. There's Ms. Moore's Bakery in Overtown that didn't have renovations for -- Chair Russell: These are all jobs. Mr. Walker: -- 30 year -- and for every $30,000 we give, they have to create three jobs -- or one job for every $30,000. Usually, it's three jobs per 100, 000. Board Member Reyes: Yes, yes, I (UNINTELLIGIBLE). Mr. Walker: And we try to get it from the Omni community, but we've made it lenient to cross over to the Overtown community. We have opened -- we have businesses opening this month. We had businesses open last month. And we go out and actively recruit these people to come in. And if there's City permits or WASA (Water and Sewer Administration) fees that need to be connected, that's a part of our small business program that opens those businesses and creates jobs. Board Member Reyes: That is very important, because that will provide those people with the necessary revenues to be able to live in those apartments, even maybe a better apartment than low income. OMNI Community Redevelopment Agency Page 5 Printed on 4/8/2019 OMNI Community Redevelopment Agency Marked Agenda February 19, 2019 Mr. Walker: Yes, sir. Chair Russell: Thank you. All in favor of Item RE. I, say "aye." The Board (Collectively): Aye. Chair Russell: Any opposed? Motion passes. 2. OMNI CRA RESOLUTION 5129 A RESOLUTION OF THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OF THE OMNI REDEVELOPMENT DISTRICT COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY ("CRA"), WITH ATTACHMENT(S), APPROVING THE RELOCATION PLAN PROGRAM, IN SUBSTANTIALLY THE ATTACHED FORM, FOR TEMPORARY RELOCATION ASSISTANCE TO RESIDENTS THAT ARE DISPLACED AS A RESULT OF A CRA PROJECT ("PROGRAM"); AUTHORIZING AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $50,000.00 FOR THE PROGRAM FROM RESERVE FUNDS FROM ACCOUNT CODE 10040.920501.531000; FURTHER AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR TO DISBURSE FUNDS, AT HIS DISCRETION, DIRECTLY TO RESIDENTS OR TO VENDORS FOR ELIGIBLE COSTS; FURTHER AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR TO NEGOTIATE AND EXECUTE ANY AND ALL DOCUMENTS NECESSARY TO EFFECTUATE THE PROGRAM, ALL IN A FORM ACCEPTABLE TO THE GENERAL COUNSEL. 3. ENACTMENT NUMBER: CRA-R-19-0002 MOTION TO: Adopt RESULT: ADOPTED MOVER: Manolo Reyes, Board Member, District Four SECONDER: Wifredo (Willy) Gort, Board Member, District One AYES: Russell, Gort, Reyes ABSENT: Hardemon, Carollo Note for the Record: For additional minutes referencing Item RE.2, please see Item RE.1. Chair Russell: Can I get a motion on RE.2, please, which is the relocation funds; $50,000 to help folks --? Board Member Reyes: I move that. Board Member Gort: Second. Chair Russell: Moved by Commissioner Reyes; seconded by Commissioner Gort. Any further discussion? All in favor, say "aye." The Board (Collectively): Aye. Chair Russell: Any opposed? Motion passes. OMNI CRA RESOLUTION 5130 A RESOLUTION OF THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OF THE OMNI REDEVELOPMENT DISTRICT COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY ("CRA"), BY A FOUR -FIFTHS (4/5THS) AFFIRMATIVE VOTE, AFTER AN ADVERTISED PUBLIC HEARING, RATIFYING, APPROVING, AND o1YINI Community Redevelopment Agency Page 6 Printed on 4/8/2019 OMNI Community Redevelopment Agency Marked Agenda February 19, 2019 CONFIRMING THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR'S FINDING THAT COMPETITIVE NEGOTIATION METHODS AND PROCEDURES ARE NOT PRACTICABLE OR ADVANTAGEOUS TO THE CRA PURSUANT TO SECTION 18-85(A) OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF MIAMI, FLORIDA, AS AMENDED, AS ADOPTED BY THE CRA; WAIVING THE REQUIREMENTS FOR SAID PROCEDURES; AUTHORIZING THE ALLOCATION OF GRANT FUNDS FROM ACCOUNT NO. 10040.920501.883000 IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $400,000.00 OVER A TWO (2) YEAR PERIOD TO INHABIT EARTH, INC., A FLORIDA NOT FOR PROFIT CORPORATION ("GRANTEE"), TO PROVIDE PARTIAL FUNDING FOR A POP-UP TEMPORARY URBAN FARM, NEIGHBORHOOD GREENSPACE, EVENT SPACE, AND OTHER ADVANCEMENTS RELATED TO IMPROVING THE PUBLIC REALM ("PROGRAM"); AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR TO DISBURSE FUNDS ON A REIMBURSEMENT BASIS DIRECTLY TO THE GRANTEE OR DIRECTLY TO VENDORS, AT THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR'S DISCRETION, UPON PRESENTATION OF INVOICES AND SATISFACTORY DOCUMENTATION; AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR TO NEGOTIATE AND EXECUTE ANY AND ALL DOCUMENTS NECESSARY TO EFFECTUATE THE PROGRAM, IN A FORM ACCEPTABLE TO THE GENERAL COUNSEL. RESULT: NO ACTION TAKEN 4. OMNI CRA RESOLUTION 5249 A RESOLUTION OF THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OF THE OMNI REDEVELOPMENT DISTRICT COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY ("CRA") AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR TO EXECUTE REVOCABLE LICENSE AGREEMENTS FOR THE SHORT TERM USE OF CRA PROPERTIES, SUBJECT TO THE CONDITIONS AND LIMITATIONS PROVIDED HEREIN AND IN A FORM ACCEPTABLE TO THE GENERAL COUNSEL. ENACTMENT NUMBER: CRA-R-19-0003 MOTION TO: Adopt RESULT: ADOPTED MOVER: Wifredo (Willy) Gort, Board Member, District One SECONDER: Manolo Reyes, Board Member, District Four AYES: Russell, Gort, Reyes ABSENT: Hardemon, Carollo Note for the Record: For additional minutes referencing Item RE.4, please see Item RE.1. Chair Russell: RE.3 is a four fifths that we are not taking up right now. RE.4 is the ability for the Executive Director to handle short-term revocable licenses. Is there a motion for RE.4, please? Board Member Reyes: RE.4. Board Member Gort: Explain to me what's a short -tern revocable license. What kind of license we're talking about? Jason Walker (Executive Director/Omni Community Redevelopment Agency): So OMNI Community Redevelopment Agency Page 7 Printed on 4/8/2019 OMNI Community Redevelopment Agency Marked Agenda February 19, 2019 this item came about because we purchased a property in 2034 North Miami Avenue that we plan on developing for affordable housing. The RFP (Request for Proposals) is being worked on in Legal right now, but that should be out soon. But between the time that the RFP is developed and out and the time that we break ground, we've had a lot of people come to ask us if they're able to rent that space in Wynwood; a lot of different people that are not necessarily Wynwood people, and we would like to make the space available to them on a -- you know, if you go to "Rent Your Daughter's Wedding" -- Board Member Gort: Oh, this is an RFP for an existing facility? Mr. Walker: Existing facility that we own, that we can rent out to make additional nontax money to reinvest back in the businesses for short -- for one night. So if you want to come and you want to have your daughter's quince -- Board Member Gort: Got you. Mr. Walker: -- you'll be able to fill out an application. Board Member Reyes: It is not for permanent businesses? Mr. Walker: No, sir. No, sir. Board Member Reyes: It is just for events? Mr. Walker: Precisely. Board Member Reyes: (UNINTELLIGIBLE). Board Member Gort: Events (UNINTELLIGIBLE). Mr. Walker: Yes, sir. Board Member Reyes: That is fine. Chair Russell: So we don't have to come back here every time to vote on every single event. Mr. Walker: Exactly. Board Member Reyes: Okay. That is fine. Chair Russell: Is there a motion on -- Board Member Gort: Move it. Chair Russell: -- RE.4, please? Board Member Reyes: Second. Chair Russell: Moved by Commissioner Gort; second by Commissioner Reyes. All in favor, say "aye." The Board (Collectively): Aye. Chair Russell: Any opposed? Motion passes. OMNI Community Redevelopment Agency Page 8 Printed on 4/8/2019 OMNI Community Redevelopment Agency Marked Agenda February 19, 2019 5. OMNI CRA RESOLUTION 4782 A RESOLUTION OF THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OF THE OMNI REDEVELOPMENT DISTRICT COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY ("CRA"), WITH ATTACHMENT(S), BY A FOUR -FIFTHS (4/5THS) AFFIRMATIVE VOTE, AFTER AN ADVERTISED PUBLIC HEARING, RATIFYING, APPROVING, AND CONFIRMING THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR'S FINDING THAT COMPETITIVE NEGOTIATION METHODS AND PROCEDURES ARE NOT PRACTICABLE OR ADVANTAGEOUS TO THE CRA PURSUANT TO SECTION 18-85(A) OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF MIAMI, FLORIDA, AS AMENDED, AS ADOPTED BY THE CRA; WAIVING THE REQUIREMENTS FOR SAID PROCEDURES; AUTHORIZING THE ALLOCATION OF GRANT FUNDS FROM ACCOUNT NO. 10040.920501.883000 IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $500,000.00 TO REBUILDING TOGETHER MIAMI-DADE, INC., A FLORIDA NOT FOR PROFIT CORPORATION ("REBUILDING"), TO PROVIDE PARTIAL FUNDING FOR A "HOME IMPROVEMENT FAQADE PROGRAM" ("PROGRAM"); AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR TO DISBURSE FUNDS ON A REIMBURSEMENT BASIS TO REBUILDING OR DIRECTLY TO VENDORS UPON PRESENTATION OF INVOICES AND SATISFACTORY DOCUMENTATION, AT THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR'S DISCRETION; AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR TO NEGOTIATE AND EXECUTE ANY AND ALL DOCUMENTS NECESSARY TO EFFECTUATE THE PROGRAM, IN A FORM ACCEPTABLE TO THE GENERAL COUNSEL. MOTION TO: Withdraw RESULT: WITHDRAWN MOVER: Wifredo (Willy) Gort, Board Member, District One SECONDER: Manolo Reyes, Board Member, District Four AYES: Russell, Gort, Reyes ABSENT: Hardemon, Carollo Chair Russell: We will start, please, with a -- just some housekeeping quickly. We're looking for a withdrawal of Item Number 5. That's RE.5, looking to withdraw. It's stated on the resolution as "May be Withdrawn," and the Executive Director would like to take that back and work together with that group for a different direction. Is there a motion to withdraw Item 5? Board Member Gort: Move it. Chair Russell: It's been moved. Board Member Reyes: Second. Chair Russell: Seconded. Board Member Reyes: This is the one about $500, 000? Chair Russell: Yes, correct, for the single home -- single-family home rehab, and it's not just single --family, but home rehabs. Board Member Reyes: Home rehabs. Chair Russell: But they need to work on it a little. further; plus, we don't have a 'bur - fifths at the moment, anyway. 01YINI Community Redevelopment Agency Page 9 Printed on 4/8/2019 OMNI Community Redevelopment Agency Marked Agenda February 19, 2019 Board Member Reyes: All right. That's a good idea. Chair Russell: All in, favor of withdrawal, say "aye." The Board (Collectively): Aye. Chair Russell: Any opposed? Motion passes. 6. OMNI CRA RESOLUTION 5128 A RESOLUTION OF THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OF THE OMNI REDEVELOPMENT DISTRICT COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY ("CRA"), WITH ATTACHMENT(S), ACCEPTING AND APPROVING THE ASSESSMENT OF NEED STUDY PREPARED BY PMG ASSOCIATES, INC., ATTACHED AND INCORPORATED AS EXHIBIT "A" ("STUDY"), FOR THE EXTENSION OF LIFE OF THE CRA; FINDING THAT THE STUDY AREA CONSTITUTES A SLUM OR BLIGHTED AREA AS DEFINED IN SECTION 163, FLORIDA STATUTES; FINDING THAT THERE IS A SHORTAGE OF HOUSING AFFORDABLE TO RESIDENTS OF LOW OR MODERATE INCOME, INCLUDING THE ELDERLY; AND FINDING THAT THE REBUILDING, REHABILITATION, CONSERVATION, AND REDEVELOPMENT OF THE STUDY AREA IS NECESSARY AND IS IN THE BEST INTEREST OF THE PUBLIC HEALTH, SAFETY, MORALS, AND WELFARE OF THE RESIDENTS OF THE CITY OF MIAMI ("CITY") AND MIAMI-DADE COUNTY ("COUNTY"); FURTHER DIRECTING THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR TO TRANSMIT A COPY OF THE STUDY TO THE CITY AND THE COUNTY FOR FURTHER LEGISLATIVE ACTION. ENACTMENT NUMBER: CRA-R-19-0004 MOTION TO: Adopt RESULT: ADOPTED MOVER: Wifredo (Willy) Gort, Board Member, District One SECONDER: Ken Russell, Chair, District Two AYES: Russell, Gort NAYS: Reyes ABSENT: Hardemon, Carollo Chair Russell: RE. 6 is the -- approving the Assessment of Need Study that has been carried out. There are representatives here, if you have any questions about that. But basically, it is saving that there is still an ongoing need in the Omni Community Redevelopment Agency to continue our work, with an extension. Board Member Reyes: This is for an extension of life of the Omni? Chair Russell: Correct. Board Member Reyes: For the CRA (Community Redevelopment Agency)? Chair Russell: Correct. Board Member Reyes: And if -- my -- Chair Russell: It doesn't approve it; it simply accepts the finding of -- the Assessment of Need Study; accepts the work that the group has done -- the OMNI Community Redevelopment Agency Page 10 Printed on 4/8/2019 OMNI Community Redevelopment Agency Marked Agenda February 19, 2019 contracted group has done to assess the area; that the need still exists. Board Member Reyes: I have not read that assessment. I would like to be more informed, because you know that the -- my opinion on extending CRAs, you see, I think that CRAs -- the purpose of CRAs is just promote development, and once the development occur -- eliminate blight, and once blight has been eliminated and development has taken place, they should sunset, and -- Chair Russell: Agreed. Board Member Reyes: -- then -- because if they keep on going, then what you're doing -- what we are doing -- not this -- I'm not talking about this or anything, and neither one in particular -- but what you're doing is, all the additional funds stay within the area, and other areas that need also some funds, they are being deprived of additional funds that are needed for their streets, for their extra police officers, et cetera, et cetera. Chair Russell: Yes. Board Member Reyes: You see. That's why I want to make -- be very sure that it is worth it to extend the life of the CRA. Chair Russell: Absolutely. And so, we need to be careful about it. The life, as it stands, has another 13 years left on it? Jason Walker (Executive Director/Omni Community Redevelopment Agency): Yes, sir. Chair Russell: Approximately. Board Member Reyes: Chairman, 229 -- 2000 --1 mean -- Mr. Walker: 2030. Board Member Reyes: 2030, as it is today? Mr. Walker.• Yes, sir. Chair Russell: Right. Board Member Reyes: But I don't see the need that we take -- make a decision of extending it beyond that without knowing what we're going to do, so. Mr. Walker: And that's -- Chair Russell: So the -- ifI could. So the current assessment -- the current life span of the CRA and the funds available to it to do the job it should do are completely restricted by the agreements that it made in the global agreement and before. Board Member Reyes: Yes. I know. Chair Russell: We do not have the funds to move forward and fulfill our redevelopment plan. So the blight that you see out there now cannot be addressed over this next 13 years, unless we are able to do extend and do a financing plan that can then bring in those funds. Board Member Reyes: I -- sir -- OIMINI Community Redevelopment Agency Page 11 Printed on 4/8/2019 OMNI Community Redevelopment Agency Marked Agenda February 19, 2019 Chair Russell: He's right here. Board Member Reyes: -- with all due respect, I (UNINTELLIGIBLE) Little Havana has more blight than this -- Chair Russell: You -- Board Member Reyes: -- and they need -- Chair Russell: -- are correct. You are correct. Board Member Reyes: You see? And they need funds from the CRA. Why don't we wait, and let's analyze this further. I won't vote on this. Chair Russell: So -- Board Member Reyes: Table this. I won't vote on it. I talked to you about it -- Chair Russell: Yes, sir. Board Member Reyes: -- and my position has been from day one -- Mr. Walker: Yes, sir. Board Member Reyes: -- that I am totally against extending the life of the CRA. We have until 2000 -- I mean, 2029, right? Mr. Walker: Yes, sir. 2030. Board Member Reyes: And the -- I'm not convinced with the arguments that are being presented that we need it in order to develop the lots by the school buildings -- Chair Russell: Yeah. Board Member Reyes: -- or by the school administration buildings. And if we're going to do a major redevelopment there that is going to be almost -- oh, yeah, you know how I am. I'm a straight shooter. I'm concerned that if we make a major low- income redevelopment there and build eight -- I mean, how many apartments? A thousand apartments, 2,000 apartments, we are creating the same type of projects that failed in Chicago, failed in the Bronx, and failed in all those places, and I want to make sure that we don't do that. Chair Russell: No, absolutely not. Board Member Reyes: Okay. Chair Russell: And the redevelopment plan would be done in a responsible way. I spoke with County Commissioners as well, who are interested in the Little Havana concept; that there are other areas of need that are not getting City attention, nor County attention, that could be worthy of CRA, and I am absolutely -- Board Member Reyes: Sir -- Chair Russell: -- open to it. I am absolutely open to it. Board Member Reyes: -- the CRA -- many people say that, "No. We're to build a OMNI Community Redevelopment Agency Page 12 Printed on 4/8/2019 OMNI Community Redevelopment Agency Marked Agenda February 19, 2019 CRA." A CRA in Flagaini won't work, because we don't have the potential of building the buildings that you have built here, and the tax base have increased substantially. Chair Russell: Yeah. Board Member Reyes: You see? We don't have the potential. Why the CRA Overtown/Parkwest Redevelopment Project and the CRA was created? Because we - - if we have -- would have done it only with Overtown, it would -- nothing would have happened, but being -- I mean, Over -- Parkwest had the potential of development and the demand to create -- Chair Russell: Correct. That's it. Board Member Reyes: -- the type of buildings and the type of development. The Omni was the same way. Chair Russell: Yeah. Board Member Reyes: So saying that we're going to have a CRA in Little Havana or in Flaganti or (UNINTELLIGIBLE) -- Chair Russell: I misunderstood. I thought that's what you were asking. Board Member Reyes: No, no, I'm not asking for that, because that wouldn't do anything to it -- Chair Russell: Understood. Board Member Reyes: -- because there is not the potential for development there, as there was a potential here. You create a CRA where there is potential for development, so the tax base -- 1 mean, that the increment of that -- of those development are reinvested in order to create more development in that area -- Chair Russell: Yeah. Board Member Reyes: -- that will increase the tax base; and that tax base, once they -- I mean, sunset, that tax base -- that additional tax base that was created, it is used in the whole City, you see? That's -- Chair Russell: Understood. So this is a philosophy on CRAs in general, and I assume you feel the same way about the Overtown/Parkwest CRA, which is --? Because our timing issue is we're trying to work in tandem with the Overtown/Parkwest CRA in their extension as well. Board Member Reyes: But their extension, it is -- it's sort of different. Overtown has a different reality than what we have here. Chair Russell: What's the difference? Board Member Reyes: The difference is that we have more blight, we have more poverty, we have more need for -- Chair Russell: In Overtown? Board Member Reyes: In Overtown. OMNI Community Redevelopment Agency Page 13 Printed on 4/8/2019 OMNI Community Redevelopment Agency Marked Agenda February 19, 2019 Chair Russell: There are 10 empty lots -- Board Member Reyes: That's why they need that -- there is development in Parkwest, because that development -- you see, most of the -- Chair Russell: Yeah. Board Member Reyes: -- fluids that comes to Overtown comes from Parkwest. Chair Russell: Yes. Board Member Reyes: You see? Chair Russell: Yes. And I -- Board Member Reyes: And Omni, all the funds that you get, it is from the development that has occurred around this area. You see? Chair Russell: Okay. I'd like you to give me a shot to convince you. 1'd like you to give me a shot. Board Member Reyes: Sir, we have to sit down -- Chair Russell: This is the moment. This is our moment. Board Member Reyes: No, no, no. This is (UNINTELLIGIBLE). Chair Russell: We are quite -- I would just like to make the case to you -- Board Member Reyes: Oh, make the case. Chair Russell: -- of why we do have the need here in a very similar way to what Overtown has, because what we have -- the same engine that -- all the development that's happening in Overtown/Parkwest with World Center, et cetera, is creating an engine that can help the rest of the district, and they've done that throughout. In our CRA, it has the engine; it never spent it where it was supposed to. We never spent -- there are 10 blocks of blighted residential poverty, people who need our help, and we don't have the muscle to do it. We don't have the budget to do it. We don't have the funds. Since -- in the last three years, we've turned around, and Jason has literaily found money to make money and start affordable housing projects, but we are a drop in the bucket from what we need to do for this community. We have failed it as a CRA. We have a chance to redeem ourselves, and I need your help. I can't do it without you in this moment. And we're trying to go in tandem with the Overtown/Parkwest CRA, which has the exact same situation that we do. Many, many good projects are depending on an extension, or the School Board property cannot be developed, or the Biscayne Park property cannot be developed properly. There's so much blighted area in here. Just the FDOT (Florida Department of Transportation) underdeck that we want to make a connection between Overtown and the water, we want to be a big help in that. There's an item on here where we will be helping -- Board Member Reyes: Is that the thing that --? Chair Russell: It is. It is. Board Member Reyes: You see, I do understand what you're saying, but -- I mean, unfortunately, unfortunately, the funds of this CRA has been used as a piggybank -- O MINI Community Redevelopment Agency Page 14 Printed on 4/8/2019 OMNI Community Redevelopment Agency Marked Agenda February 19, 2019 Chair Russell: Yep. Board Member Reyes: -- as a piggybank that -- then you use it for a tunnel, you use it for whatever, and now that -- you are in this predicament -- Chair Russell: Yes. Board Member Reyes: -- but that has hurt the rest of the other -- Chair Russell: We have a chance to fix that now. Board Member Reyes: No, you don't have a chance to fix that, because ijyou extend this after 2029, that means that until next century, not a neighborhood in the City of Miami is going to receive the proceeds from here. Mr. Walker: Commissioner -- Mr. Chairman? Chair Russell: Yes. Mr. Walker: Commissioner Reyes and I had a long discussion about this item, and I think you started out by saying that this assessment of need is only the acceptance of the study. This is not the official extension. We have to come back to you with two other documents; one is the interlocal and one is the redevelopment plan. Board Member Reyes: Yes. I understand. Mr. Walker: That creates -- So the concerns that you raise, sir, are valid concerns, and all of that -- all of those concerns, especially the giveback to the City -- because for the 15 extension years that we're requesting, we don't have to take 100 percent back; we can give 50 percent back to the City, 50 percent back to the County, but all of those details are worked out in the interlocal agreement, which triggers maybe the 15-year extension, but this document only accepts the report. Board Member Reyes: I think that -- you see, I won't tacitly agree on the extension by accepting the report, you see, because by me accepting the report tacitly, what I'm doing is, I'm saying, "Yes, I'm in favor of the extension." You see? Mr. Walker: Yes, sir. Board Member Reyes: And I said it day one that I was in a Commission meeting -- you and I had an argument about this my first Commission meeting, you see. And I want everybody to know that I was the economist for the Overtown/Parkwest Redevelopment Project, you see. The first CRA that was created was the Overtown Redevelopment, and I was the economist of that; I know what I'm talking about, you see. I know what I'm talking about. And I want everybody to know where I come from. It is not that I am against the CRA. I know what I'm talking about, and I know the purpose of creating a CRA, you see. We cannot create a CRA in perpetuity for that particular neighborhood. We can't. Chair Russell: But -- Board Member Reyes: We can't, because that is not the purpose of the CRA. Chair Russell: So -- Board Member Reyes: It is not the purpose. What I want to do -- There is no rush OMNI Community Redevelopment Agency Page 15 Printed on 4/8/2019 OMNI Community Redevelopment Agency Marked Agenda February 19, 2019 .for this, sir; we have until 2029, and we have many days ahead that we can talk. Chair Russell: We -- Board Member Reyes: I wouldn 't vote in favor of this. Chair Russell: I understand. 1 -- Mr. Walker: Commissioner? Chair Russell: -- would like to say a couple of things. One, we can do a lot of good right now with this extension. Even though the extension starts then, the future TIF (Tax Increment Fund) we can now borrow against that to do really good for a community that needs it right now. We have a plan. We have a redevelopment plan. Everything we're trying to do depends on it. I can hear that you're not against CRAs in general, because if you're in favor of the Overtown/Parkwest extension, I need to understand the specific difference with this CRA that you have an issue with. Board Member Reyes: It's very easy, sir. Very easy. This CRA was created to promote development in the Omni area, which was -- most of the development that has created here is (UNINTELLIGIBLE) in, and they have provided the City with additional revenue -- Chair Russell: What has? Board Member Reyes: -- which is tax -- of all of this development that has -- Chair Russell: The waterfront. Board Member Reyes: The waterfront -- Chair Russell: Right. Board Member Reyes: -- that have been created. Fine, it was created. And most of the blighted areas have been eliminated, and I think we have to -- still have time to eliminate it. Now, that was created. It has fulfilled its purpose, you see. And since it has fulfilled its purpose, and it has been mismanaged -- not by you, not by you. I'm not blaming you guys. It has been managed [sic], but unfortunately, it has been mismanaged, and unfortunately, because of that, you see, now it doesn't -- I mean, when it -- they sunset, because this has been extended before. Chair Russell: Understood. Board Member Reyes: You see? It was extended, and then now we want another extension, and when are the rest of the neighborhoods in the City of Miami will be able to obtain some benefit from all the benefits that have been created here? Never. You see? Chair Russell: All right. Commissioner Gort, did you want to --? Board Member Gort: Yes. First of all, I'd like to say, a lot of the increase of funding that have come through the Omni CRA has been for the work that we've done in the past, because let me tell you, nobody wanted to live in Buena Vista, nobody wanted to build in Buena Vista, nobody wanted to go into Biscayne Boulevard. Thanks for the job that was done by former CRA -- sorry about that -- you can see the fundings that coming in today. Now, the one thing that I'd like to see, because when you (UNINTELLIGIBLE) right off your target, you're talking about create -- clear slum O MINI Community Redevelopment Agency Page 16 Printed on 4/8/2019 OMNI Community Redevelopment Agency Marked Agenda February 19, 2019 and blight as a goal, right? The second paragraph says, "Create employment opportunities." That's what I'd like to see, a plan where you have mixed use. We created, through East Little Havana CDC (Community Development Corporation), where I was president at the time, an apartment building on Southwest 1st Avenue and 9th Street, a block away from Miami Avenue and two blocks away from Brickell; 170 units, 102 affordable housing, because we have tax credit, and 70 rental. The 70 -- what do you call them? Normal rent. Mr. Walker: Market. Board Member Gort: Market rate, which means you mix the community, because whenever you create a lot of affordable housing, what happens to those small business in the area? The buying power does not exist there; they cannot maintain the existing business. This is where we have to combine the whole thing. Yes, I think affordable housing is very important, but we can use mixed housing, too -- Board Member Reyes: Yep. Board Member Gort: -- which is very important also. Board Member Reyes: And another thing, sir -- Board Member Gort: And going back to -- the first CRA was created because the City fund it. Board Member Reyes: Yeah. Board Member Gort: That's why, later on, they had to pay back the City, because the City is the one that funded most everything. Chair Russell:: Would you be in favor of this item, accepting the finding of necessity, the --? Board Member Gort: I would have to look at it, but I would like to see a plan, really Board Member Reyes: Yeah. Board Member Gort: -- where I can see the benefit, if employment is going to be created, because what happens right now, every time you have someone that wants to come with a great project for an area that is abandoned, it's non-existent, people come against it; "No, no. We want affordable housing. We don't want this." Where there's opportunity to create jobs, educate people, we need to do that. Board Member Reyes: Yep. Board Member Gort: What good is it if you give him a home, but you don't give him a job? Chair Russell: Understood. Board Member Gort: They're going to live for the rest of their life in affordable housing? Chair Russell: Understood. So, Commissioner Gort, would you be open to making a motion on this item specifically, hearing from what that plan is, so that we can pass this item and be in conjunction with the Overtown CRA in our timeline? aVINI Community Redevelopment Agency Page 17 Printed on 4/8/2019 OMNI Community Redevelopment Agency Marked Agenda February 19, 2019 Board Member Gort: I don't have any problem in voting for it. I have not looked at it, and I'll be frank with you; I haven't had an opportunity to look at it, but I would make sure it can be amended, because I'd like to see more of not only affordable housing; I'd like to see what kind of employment we're going to create, what kind of mixed use we're going to have, because we don't want to create ghettos. We want to give people an opportunity to really come up. Chair Russell: Thank you. So that -- is that a motion on RE. 6, please? Board Member Gort: Yeah, I'll move it. Chair Russell: Thank you. Seconded by the Chair. Open for discussion. Board Member Reyes: Besides -- and let me tell you something, you can use also some of the funds that we're going to receive for affordable housing to create additional housing here, okay? You're going to receive -- if it is divided, you're going to receive over $13 million, you see, and -- but I don't see the --1 will not vote for an extension, because 1 think that there are other needs 1 know that has been created. Most of the revenues that have been produced, they are being earmarked to pay the bonds, and -- for the way that was -- that the money was used before, you see. And most of those funds are being -- I mean, they cannot be used. Board Member Gort: Well, wait a minute. You're saying this study, it's giving the opportunity to do a bond issue based on what is going to come up? Chair Russell: I'm sorry; I couldn't understand. Board Member Gort: Before you can do a bond issue, that has to be approved by the County and by the City. Chair Russell: This is completely separate of the bond. Board Member Gort: This is just a study? Chair Russell: It's just a study and (UNINTELLIGIBLE). Board Member Gort: And can be amended? Chair Russell: Yes, it can, and it needs County approval, which they can -- Board Member Gort: Okay. Chair Russell: -- disagree. And then beyond that, an actual MOU (Memorandum of Understanding) would need to be put together, an interlocal, of how everything is decided that we have planned. Everything could change. This is simply accepting the need -- study that says, "We still have blight. We still have poverty. This is not mission accomplished; we have more work to do." That's all it says. Board Member Gort: But I find we have a lot of property owners that would like to maintain and stay there. Board Member Reyes: Yep. Chair Russell: Yes. Board Member Gort: Are we helping those people to keep their homes? Because 01YINI Community Redevelopment Agency Page 18 Printed on 4/8/2019 OMNI Community Redevelopment Agency Marked Agenda February 19, 2019 one of the biggest problems we have, we have an elder citizens. One of the things that's happening in some of our neighborhood, the kids are moving back in, the young people are moving back in. Their parents are no longer there; they take over the houses, but they were -- that's what keeps the neighborhoods going, ownership. Chair Russell: Two of -- Board Member Gort: If you don 't have ownership -- Board Member Reyes: That's right. Chair Russell: So two of our biggest investments to date have to do with affordability for those who live here now; not about attracting new folks that are coming. But the ground -breaking we had last -- two weeks ago is 45 units that we will phase development in it. Everybody who lives there now can move within the development while we redevelop; then they move back into their apartment, brand- new, same rent; they get to stay there. Now, as for ownership, which is very, very important, this -- one of the items on here, the purchase of land, we could absolutely do that for ownership, because not enough of our bond or CRA plans have (UNINTELLIGIBLE) be ownership. We're always talking rent, rent, rent, but really Board Member Reyes: No, and -- Chair Russell: -- giving people equity is the greatest gift we can do, and that's not, "Here's a fish for the day"; that's, "Here's your investment for your life." Board Member Reyes: Mr. Chair? Chair Russell: Yes, sir. Board Member Reyes: I have been talking about homeownership -- Chair Russell: You're absolutely right. Board Member Reyes: -- since the first day that I had been -- I've been to Overtown/Parkwest Redevelopment CRA, and I've talked about ownership. I'm a firm believer in ownership, farm believer in ownership. Chair Russell: Let's do more of it. Let's do it together. Board Member Reyes: That's right, but I don't want you -- I don't want this CRA to be in perpetuity. That's what he's trying to do. Mr. Walker: No, no, no, no. Board Member Reyes: No. no. Yes, sir. Yes, sir. And let me tell you something. Chair Russell: (UNINTELLIGIBLE). Board Member Reyes: Listen to me. Right now, with the folks that you are pertaining, you are promoting certain development, right? Chair Russell: What do you mean? Board Member Reyes: You said that you value -- developing how many units? 01YINI Community Redevelopment Agency Page 19 Printed on 4/8/2019 OMNI Community Redevelopment Agency Marked Agenda February 19, 2019 Chair Russell: Well, the one project that we ground -broke two weeks ago is 45 -- 44 units. Mr. Walker: 44. Board Member Reyes: 44 units. Chair Russell: 44 units. Board Member Reyes: Where the money came from? Mr. Walker: We went out last year and got a loan for $25 million, which is the coaxed capacity that we have until 2030. Board Member Reyes: And when are you going to be paying those -- how long before you pay that money? Mr. Walker.: Over the next 13 years. Board Member Reyes: And after you meet all your needs, how much money you'll have left? Mr. Walker: It's probably -- we give grant money out to businesses like this to come into the neighborhood and open up. Probably a million or two a year to do -- Board Member Reyes: Million or two a year. Mr. Walker: -- grant business. I want to point out one thing that shouldn't go unnoticed. Two years ago, three years ago, the County Mayor sent out a memo to the County Commissioners, endorsing -- frankly, suggesting that the Overtown CRA and the Omni CRA be extended. In that memo, there's a number. The number that the tax will be generated from the additional 15 years was $780 million in new tax money, but what we've done, and what we've failed to mention to you now, which will be, Commissioner Gort, a part of our redevelopment plan, is that we've been working with government property owners in the area, which include the School Board that has 10 acres; the City of Miami that has 7 acres. That's 17 acres right now of untaxed property. So that means that the City's not getting that money, the County's not getting that money. Board Member Reyes: I do under -- Walker: If this is extended just for -- and we did the analysis, a financial analysis by Lambert, the same people that did the soccer stadium on Melreese. They said -- we did it before the Melreese, but -- Board Member Reyes: The same people that did the (UNINTELLIGIBLE). Board Member Gort: (UNINTELLIGIBLE). Mr. Walker: The financial -- Board Member Reyes: Well, say no more. That is a (UNINTELLIGIBLE). Mr. Walker: No. Board Member Gort: No. OMNI Community Redevelopment Agency Page 20 Printed on 4/8/2019 OMNI Community Redevelopment Agency Marked Agenda February 19, 2019 Board Member Reyes: No. That's a (UNINTELLIGIBLE); say no more. Chair Russell: All right. Mr. Walker: No. Listen, listen, listen, we did it before. We did this study three years ago. Board Member Reyes: Oh, man. Mr. Walker: We did this study three years ago, before the -- before that was hired -- before they were hired for that project. The point is that on that 17 acres of current untaxed land, you would realize a $500 million taxable value for construction on that land, so. Board Member Reyes: But, sir, let me interrupt you. You think that -- if the School System, they want to sell those lots they have, they could sell it tomorrow. Mr. Walker: The Chairman -- Board Member Reyes: They could sell it tomorrow, you see. Mr. Walker: -- met with the Superintendent. Board Member Reyes: I used to work at the School System. I used to be in charge of all the revenues that they received in the Budget Department. They could sell it tomorrow. There is -- hasn't been a will of -- from the School System to sell those properties. They are not developed; not because the CRA has not been part of the development process. They have not been developed because the School System has not tried to sell it and develop it, you see. Chair Russell: Correct. I -- Board Member Reyes: So don't tell me that it won't be developed -- Chair Russell: No. Board Member Reyes: -- unless you have the money to do it. Chair Russell: Right. No. They -- the worst thing they could do is just sell them off to development. I believe our best opportunity with such an assemblage is to serve the community with education opportunities, housing opportunities, mixed -use opportunities. That would not happen if the School Board just simply sold those properties; they will go market rate, high -end luxury development that will not service this Omni community for what -- the needs that it has. It will displace more people. Board Member Reyes: From what I heard, sir, what they wanted to do is a major, major low-income development in that area. I want to develop -- I mean, I want to foster development of low-income housing, but not to the extent that you are creating a project. Chair Russell: Oh, no. Board Member Reyes: If we don't learn from our past mistakes, we're going to -- we're -- I mean, we're condemned to repeat them. I lived in Chicago, I lived in New York, and I know what happened in Chicago. OMNI Community Redevelopment Agency Page 21 Printed on 4/8/2019 OMNI Community Redevelopment Agency Marked Agenda February 19, 2019 Chair Russell: Agreed. Board Member Reyes: And I am -- I will be totally opposed to a development like that, and that's what I heard. And if you're going to extend this CRA to provide -- make a development over there, which, by the way, you don't have the commitment from the School System to buy there -- to sell it there. Chair Russell: We have a memo of understanding (UNINTELLIGIBLE). Board Member Reyes: The memo of understanding, but you don't have a commitment. Chair Russell: (UNINTELLIGIBLE). Board Member Reyes: I mean -- Chair Russell: Absolutely, yeah. Board Member Reyes: -- you don't -- you do? Chair Russell: We have an agreement. Board Member Reyes: Well, that is -- how much are you going to pay for it? Chair Russell: No, we're not buying it from the School Board. Board Member Reyes: Oh. Chair Russell: We are helping the School Board, through our ability as a CRA, to incentivize the right type of development; hold their feet to the fire to do what the School Board needs and what we believe the community needs. Board Member Reyes: And you know what the school needs -- the School Board needs? I mean, I haven't seen that. I haven't seen anything like that. I mean, I haven't talked to people in the School System to ask about their plans, and things like that. Chair Russell: Yeah. Board Member Reyes: You see, I need more information; and my position, it won't waiver. Chair Russell: Well, I appreciate that. And I hope, as you get more information that you will see this CRA as important as the other CRA. So with that in mind, we have a motion from Commissioner Gort, second from the Chair. We'll close discussion. All in favor of the item, say "aye." Board Member Gort: Aye. Chair Russell: Aye. Chair Russell: Any opposed? Board Member Reyes: Yes. Chair Russell: Motion passes. Thank you. It is a fi uitful discussion, but I do hope to win you over. O MINI Community Redevelopment Agency Page 22 Printed on 4/8/2019 OMNI Community Redevelopment Agency Marked Agenda February 19, 2019 7. OMNI CRA RESOLUTION 5501 A RESOLUTION OF THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OF THE OMNI REDEVELOPMENT DISTRICT COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY ("OMNI CRA") AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF A GRANT IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED FIFTY THOUSAND DOLLARS ($50,000.00) TO THE CITY OF MIAMI FOR COSTS ASSOCIATED WITH THE DESIGN AND OPERATIONAL ASSESSMENT OF THE 33 ACRES OF OPEN SPACE RUNNING THROUGH DOWNTOWN MIAMI RELATED TO THE I-395/SR 836/1-95 DESIGN BUILD RECONSTRUCTION PROJECT CONSTRUCTED BY THE FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION ("PROJECT"); AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR TO APPOINT A REPRESENTATIVE FROM THE OMNI CRA TO REVIEW ALL PLANS AND PROPOSALS RELATED TO THE PROJECT AND PROVIDE COMMENTS ACCORDINGLY; AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION OF ANY AND ALL DOCUMENTS NECESSARY FOR SAID PURPOSE, IN A FORM ACCEPTABLE TO GENERAL COUNSEL; ALLOCATING FUNDS FROM 2019 OMNI CRA TIF REVENUES — 10040.920501.883000 — OTHER GRANT AND AIDS; DIRECTING THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR TO FORWARD A COPY OF THIS RESOLUTION TO THE OFFICIALS STATED HEREIN. RESULT: NO ACTION TAKEN Chair Russell: I would like to take up items -- the only one we did not go through is Item 7; was the investment in helping with the design and planning of the underdeck of the FDOT (Florida Department of Transportation) Project, the over-30-acre park that was within the Overtown CRA (Community Redevelopment Agency). I mean -- I'm sorry -- that is within the Omni CRA. Overtown has a section of it; the DDA (Downtown Development Authority) has a section of it; all are investing. Our portion would be 50,000, and that is RE.7. So I would like to take Items RE.1, 2, 4, and 7, please, if there's a motion. Board Member Reyes: In Item 7, Item 7 is one of those linear parks, right? Chair Russell: Yes. Board Member Reyes: Item 7 will not be considered a park to replace the land -- the park space that has been -- I mean, that could be destroyed if the Melreese Golf Course is converted into a huge commercial development and stadium? Chair Russell: There has been no discussion on this. Board Member Reyes: Well, unless -- that's another thing that I need clarification, because I know that there has been -- and you know what? It is net loss that has to be -- Chair Russell: Absolutely, and I agree with you 100 percent. Board Member Reyes: You see, unless I have clarification like this, I'm going to still be opposing this. Chair Russell: So you would be opposed to the CRA helping with the design of a park? OMNI Community Redevelopment Agency Page 23 Printed on 4/8/2019 OMNI Community Redevelopment Agency Marked Agenda February 19, 2019 Board Member Reyes: Nope. What Pm -- this park cannot replace -- I want to make sure that this park cannot -- this linear park -- Chair Russell: It's a completely unrelated subject, Commissioner. Board Member Reyes: No, it is not. Chair Russell: Right now -- what is before us now -- Board Member Reyes: It is -- no, no, no. It is not. It is not. 1 want to make clear -- Chair Russell: I don't have that ability to tell you that. Board Member Reyes: Well, then, I don't have the ability -- I won 't -- Chair Russell: It's not within my purview. I am not negotiating the lease. Board Member Reyes: Sir -- Chair Russell: I am -- that is a complete -- an outside consultant -- Board Member Reyes: -- you are an elected official. You are -- I mean, you have been always claiming that you want to protect City parks and all of that. Chair Russell: And I'm trying to build one right now. Board Member Reyes: Not -- You are trying to build a linear park? Chair Russell: Yes. Board Member Reyes: Which is -- I don't want this park, this linear park to be used as a replacement for the three -- the 73 acres that is going to be destroyed on Melreese Golf Course. Chair Russell: Commissioner, I'm here as the Chairman of the Omni CRA -- Board Member Reyes: Oh, okay. Chair Russell: -- with zero purview to give you that promise. Board Member Reyes: Okay, sir. Chair Russell: I ant not -- Board Member Reyes: Of course -- Chair Russell: -- involved with any negotiation. Board Member Reyes: Of course you -- Chair Russell: And I'm here to tell you that that has not been negotiated (UNINTELLIGIBLE) Board Member Reyes: You have the authority to say, "Hey, listen, when it conies" -- If they want to use this as a -- I mean, in order to -- I mean, as a net loss -- cover the net loss of Melreese, I will vote against it. I will not allow them to use the 33 [sic] acres to -- as a substitute for the net loss. OMNI Community Redevelopment Agency Page 24 Printed on 4/8/2019 OMNI Community Redevelopment Agency Marked Agenda February 19, 2019 Chair Russell: And I would -- Board Member Reyes: You are (UNINTELLIGIBLE). Chair Russell: -- respect your vote at that time on that item when we are voting for the lease on the Melreese project. Board Member Reyes: No. Chair Russell: And if that's your requirement for your vote, you absolutely stand firm on that ground that the No Net Loss Policy should not include linear parks. That's your philosophy. That's fine. But why would you stop the CRA from investing, along with the DDA, along with Overtown, along with the City of Miami -- Board Member Reyes: Because you -- Chair Russell: -- in the design of a park? Board Member Reyes: -- know that that is wrong, because you know that that -- Chair Russell: It's not wrong. Board Member Reyes: -- is a conspiracy that they want to build -- they want to use every single green space in the City of Miami, even medians, in order to cover for the net loss of the 73 -- Chair Russell: I'm -- Board Member Reyes: -- acres of Melreese Park. And you, as a Commissioner, you can just say, "No, don't work Commissioner Reyes, because 1 will totally oppose using that farce. I will be against that farce." And I would say, `Fantastic. 1'll vote for it." That's it. Chair Russell: I'm not here to play games or play politics or cut deals. Board Member Reyes: Sir, I'm not playing games. Chair Russell: I'm simply truing to build a park -- Board Member Reyes: If you accuse me of playing -- Chair Russell: -- and design it. Board Member Reyes: -- games, I'm just going to walk out, and that's it. But I'm not playing games, sir. I am too old to play games. Chair Russell: I -- Board Member Reyes: And I don't play politics, because even though I'm going for re-election, if I lose, I have lost before, you see. Chair Russell: All we are voting on is jbr the CRA to invest in the design -- Board Member Reyes: Yes. Chair Russell: -- of a linear park. OMNI Community Redevelopment Agency Page 25 Printed on 4/8/2019 OMNI Community Redevelopment Agency Marked Agenda February 19, 2019 Board Member Reyes: And all I'm asking is for your commitment that you're not going to allow to be used as a replacement for the 73 acres that have -- that they're going to be destroyed (UNINTELLIGIBLE). Chair Russell: I'll count you as a "no" vote. I just need to know if we've got the votes here to carry out this agenda of the CRA. Board Member Reyes: Okay. I'm leaving. Chair Russell: 1 need you for quorum. Board Member Reyes: No, sir. And you -- Chair Russell: I need you for quorum. Board Member Reyes: -- you just -- you are -- you just say, I count as a `no' vote." Chair Russell: No, but you're telling me you're -- you're telling me that you're -- you're saying you're -- you cannot vote "yes," unless I give you a promise on an unrelated item for another agenda in another body. Board Member Reyes: Sir -- Chair Russell: I cannot do that. Board Member Reyes: -- I just want a commitment, if you're so against using -- I mean, i f you are so -- Chair Russell: What am 1 against? Board Member Reyes: -- if you are so -- I mean, you claimed the other day, you said that (UNINTELLIGIBLE). Chair Russell: Please, Commissioner, let's work together here. Board Member Reyes: No, no. The other day in the paper, you said that you will not allow them to use any other parks -- I mean, medians for the -- to cover for the net loss -- Chair Russell: Absolutely. Board Member Reyes: -- park net loss. Chair Russell: I agree. Board Member Reyes: But you cannot commit yourself now and say, I will not allow that." Chair Russell: We -- Board Member Reyes: If you can't do that, I'm (UNINTELLIGIBLE) -- Chair Russell: Let's -- Board Member Reyes: -- hey, I'll see you next week. O MINI Community Redevelopment Agency Page 26 Printed on 4/8/2019 OMNI Community Redevelopment Agency Marked Agenda February 19, 2019 Chair Russell: Let us please -- Jason Walker (Executive Director/Omni Community Redevelopment Agency): Commissioner, we worked a lot on this. Can you just please -- Board Member Reyes: I still don't -- Mr. Walker: -- have a (UNINTELLIGIBLE)? Chair Russell: No, no. There are many other good things on this agenda we cannot Board Member Reyes: No, sir. Chair Russell: -- pass without you. The entire City is here -- Board Member Reyes: Well, why don't you -- Chair Russell: -- and you're going to -- Board Member Reyes: -- (UNINTELLIGIBLE), leave this out, okay, and we'll take it over some other time. Chair Russell: Please have a seat, Commissioner. Board Member Reyes: Okay? I'll have a seat, and defer this, and do it some other time. Later... Chair Russell: 5 was withdrawn; 6 was passed. RE.7, our final item. Board Member Reyes: I'm leaving now. I'll see you at City Hall, sir. Chair Russell: So you're getting -- Board Member Gort: Move to defer. Board Member Reyes: (UNINTELLIGIBLE) City Hall. Mr. Walker: Well -- Chair Russell: So we're laughing, but we're not playing games. Board Member Reyes: I'm not playing games. Chair Russell: You're killing quorum for an item so that we can't vote on it. Board Member Reyes: That item is very important to me. It might not be important to you, but it is important to me, because I don't believe that (UNINTELLIGIBLE). Chair Russell: I am 100 percent against any lease for Melreese that does not comply with the No Net Loss Policy of this City. Board Member Reyes: Right. OMNI Community Redevelopment Agency Page 27 Printed on 4/8/2019 OMNI Community Redevelopment Agency Marked Agenda February 19, 2019 ADJOURNMENT Chair Russell: And I said it has to pass the toddler test, where a kid walks and says, "That is a park. That is something that can play in "; not a median, not a swale. Board Member Reyes: That is (UNINTELLIGIBLE). I know for a fact that you (UNINTELLIGIBLE). You said that they will get all the green spaces, and then we'll add them up, no matter how small they are, in order to do -- Chair Russell: Please, if -- just so we can hear. Board Member Reyes: No. I'm just -- Chair Russell: I love the debate, honestly, honestly. Pm not trying to be difficult. I love the debate, and I understand you're against this. Board Member Reyes: Listen, we need to debate this. I'll see you later, okay? Chair Russell: All right. Board Member Reyes: And 1 don 't play games, at all; play games. Chair Russell: One was just played here. Board Member Reyes: (UNINTELLIGIBLE). Chair Russell: Gentlemen, thank you very much. This now adjourns our meeting of the Omni Community Redevelopment Agency. We are adjourned. Thank you very much. The meeting adjourned at 5:53 p.m. OMNI Community Redevelopment Agency Page 28 Printed on 4/8/2019