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HomeMy WebLinkAboutSubmittal-Public Comments Submitted Online for the July 24, 2025 City Commission MeetingOnline Public Comments -Miami City Commission Meeting for July 24, 2025 Online Public Comment Report for July 24, 2025, Regular City Commission Meeting July 24, 2025 5:58 PM MDT Public Comment motero@miamigov.com First Last Nam Nam e e BRA WI L NDO LIA N MS BRA WI L NDO LIA N MS Stree Addr ess Agen da Item RE. 1624 19 1 #179 NW 11 17th Ballot Ct, Quest Mia ion - mi, City FL Owne 3305 d 4 Prope rty Public Comment Public Comment — July 24, 2025 Agenda Item: RE. 19 #17911 — Ballot Question: City Owned Property Submitted by: Brandon Williams Executive Director, CEO Financial Literacy Academy Dear Commissioners, I am writing to encourage careful consideration and transparency regarding the ballot question on the future use or disposition of city -owned property. As the Executive Director of CEO Financial Literacy Academy, a community -based nonprofit providing financial education, housing navigation, and workforce training, I urge the Commission to ensure that any future development or sate of public Land prioritizes community benefit over commercial gain. City -owned properties represent one of our greatest public assets. If these assets are transferred, Leased, or redeveloped, they must be used to address pressing needs —such as affordable housing, community centers, job training hubs, or supportive services for youth, seniors, and vulnerable residents. We recommend including community -based organizations in the planning process to ensure these properties serve the people they were meant to support. Public Land should Lead to public good. Thank you for your Leadership and for safeguarding the Long-term interests of our communities. Sincerely, Brandon Williams Reco rded Date Jul 24 2025 10:1 3am MDT Public Comment — JuLy 24, 2025 Agenda Item: PH. 4 #17755 — Accept Section 8 Funds — FY PH. 4 2025-2026 Submitted by: Brandon Williams Executive Director, CEO Financial Literacy 1624 #177 Academy Dear Commissioners, I am submitting this public comment in support of accepting 1 55 Section 8 funds for FY 2025-2026 and to emphasize the importance of pairing housing NW Accep assistance with supportive services that help individuals achieve Long-term independence. At JuL 17th t - CEO Financial Literacy Academy, we serve Low-income families, youth, and returning citizens 24 Ct, Secti by providing financial Literacy, workforce development, and housing navigation services. Many 2025 Mia on 8 of our clients are Section 8 recipients who benefit tremendously from having a safe place to 10:0 mi, Funds Live —but still face barriers to employment, credit, and education. We respectfully request that 9am FL - FY' as these funds are accepted and administered, Local partnerships with community MDT 3305 2025 organizations Like ours be strengthened to help residents maximize this support, improve their 4 economic outlook, and ultimately reduce reliance on subsidized housing through 2026 empowerment and opportunity. Thank you for your continued commitment to building stronger, more self-sufficient communities. Sincerely, Brandon Williams BRA WIL 1624 PH. Public Comment — JuLy 24, 2025 Agenda Item: PH. 12 #17778 — Accept Additional HOME - JuL NDO LIA 1 12 ARP Funds Submitted by: Brandon Williams Executive Director, CEO Financial Literacy 24 N MS NW #177 Academy Dear Commissioners, I am writing on behalf of CEO Financial Literacy Academy in 2025 17th 78 support of accepting the additional HOME -ARP funds. These resources provide a critical 10:0 Ct, Accep opportunity to deepen our collective impact in addressing housing instability among 5am Mia t - populations with the greatest need. As a frontline organization serving Low-income individuals, MDT mi, Additi justice -involved populations, youth aging out of foster care, and persons at risk of FL onaL homelessness, we know the need for supportive housing has never been more urgent. But 3305 HOM housing alone is not enough. These additional funds must also support wraparound services- 4 E - vocational training, financial education, mental health support, and job placement —to ensure ARP Long-term housing success. We strongly encourage the Commission to allocate these funds Funds toward programs that integrate housing with empowerment, ensuring residents don't just 17947 Submittal -Public Comments Submitted Online for the July 24, 2025 City Commission Meeting First Last Nam Nam e e BRA WI L NDO LIA N MS Stree Addr ess 1624 1 NW 17th Ct, Mia mi, FL 3305 4 1624 1 NW 17th Bran WiLti Ct, don ams Mia mi, FL 3305 4 1624 1 NW 17th Bran WiLti Ct, don ams Mia mi, FL 3305 4 Agen da Item Public Comment survive —but thrive. Thank you for your vision and continued investment in sustainable community development. Sincerely, Brandon Williams Public Comment — July 24, 2025 Agenda Item: PH. 8 #17765 — Allocate ESG Funds FY' 2025 PH. 8 — 2026 Submitted by: Brandon Williams Executive Director, CEO Financial Literacy Academy #177 Dear Commissioners, I am writing to support the proposed allocation of Emergency Solutions 65 Grant (ESG) funds for FY 2025-2026 and to advocate for investments in evidence -based, Attoca community -driven strategies that help individuals transition out of homelessness for good. te - CEO Financial Literacy Academy provides critical wraparound services —including street ESG outreach, job readiness, housing navigation, and financial education —for youth and adults Funds facing housing insecurity and reentry barriers. We believe ESG funds should go beyond FY' temporary shelter and be used to fund tong -term solutions that address root causes and 2025 promote self-sufficiency. By directing ESG resources toward programs that combine housing with workforce development, financial coaching, and case management, we can help more 2026 people exit the cycle of homelessness permanently. Thank you for your Leadership and continued commitment to inclusive recovery and housing equity. Sincerely, Brandon WiRiams Public Comment — JuLy 24, 2025 Agenda Item: PH. 7 #17764 — Allocate HOME Funds FY' PH. 2 2025 — 2026 Submitted by: Brandon Williams Executive Director, CEO Financial Literacy #177 Academy Dear Commissioners, I'm writing to support the allocation of HOME funds for FY 44 2025-2026 and to advocate for an approach that uplifts our most vulnerable residents through Accep a combination of affordable housing and empowerment -based programming. At CEO t - Financial Literacy Academy, we believe housing access must go hand -in -hand with skiff - HUD building and financial education. Our organization specializes in helping Low-income families, funds youth aging out of foster care, and justice -involved individuals secure not only a safe place to FY' Live —but also a roadmap toward stability and self-sufficiency through vocational certifications, 2025 workforce readiness, and wraparound case management. We respectfully request that HOME funds be directed to community organizations Like ours that do more than provide housing- 2026 we build futures. Thank you for your dedication to equity and opportunity for aLL. Sincerely, Brandon Williams PH. 7 #177 64 Attoca te - Home Funds FY' 2025 2026 Reco rded Date Jul 24 2025 10:0 lam MDT JuL 24 2025 9:59 am MDT Public Comment — JuLy 24, 2025 Agenda Item: PH. 7 #17764 — Allocate HOME Funds FY 2025-2026 Submitted by: Brandon Williams Executive Director, CEO Financial Literacy Academy Dear Commissioners, On behalf of CEO Financial Literacy Academy, I'm writing in support of the proposed allocation of HOME funds for FY 2025-2026, and to advocate for targeted investments in supportive housing and community -rooted wraparound services. We JuL believe that affordable housing is only sustainable when it's paired with access to financial 24 education, workforce development, and individualized case management. At CEO Financial 2025 Literacy Academy, we provide Low-income residents, youth aging out of care, and returning 9:55 citizens with certified vocational training, housing navigation, and the tools needed to am maintain Long-term stability. We respectfully ask the Commission to prioritize funding for MDT nonprofit organizations that deliver both housing and empowerment. HOME funds can be a powerful catalyst —not just for shelter, but for opportunity, mobility, and generational change. Thank you for your service and your dedication to strengthening the foundation of our communities. Sincerely, Brandon Williams BRA WIL 1624 PH. 3 Agenda Item: PH. 3 #17754—Allocate HOPWA Funds FY 2025-2026 Submitted by: Brandon JuL NDO LIA 1 #177 Williams Executive Director, CEO Financial Literacy Academy Dear Honorable 24 N MS NW 54 Commissioners, On behalf of CEO Financial Literacy Academy, I would Like to express our 2025 17th Attoca support for the thoughtful allocation of HOPWA funds for FY 2025-2026, and to advocate for 9:52 Ct, te - funding that prioritizes wraparound services for individuals and families impacted by am Mia HOP HIV/AIDS. As an organization dedicated to financial Literacy, housing navigation, workforce MDT mi, WA readiness, and reentry support, we recognize that housing is just the beginning. True stability FL Funds and wellness for people Living with HIV/AIDS require integrated support —financial education, 3305 FY' access to employment, healthcare navigation, and mental wellness resources. CEO Financial 4 2025 Literacy Academy stands ready to partner in providing these services. We urge the Commission to ensure that HOPWA funding prioritizes not just housing but also capacity- 2026 building programs that break cycles of poverty, reduce recidivism, and empower clients to First Last Nam Nam e e Stree Addr ess 1624 1 NW 17th Bran Willi Ct, don ams Mia mi, FL 3305 4 Agen da Item PH. 13 #178 28 Accep t- SHIP Funds FY'20 25 - 2026 Public Comment thrive. Thank you for your commitment to equity, inclusion, and holistic community solutions. Sincerely, Brandon Williams Reco rded Date Dear Commissioners, I'm submitting this comment on behalf of CEO Financial Literacy Academy to express our strong support for the acceptance and strategic distribution of SHIP funds for FY 2025-2026. As a nonprofit committed to addressing housing instability through financial empowerment, workforce development, and wraparound support, we know that housing solutions must be paired with education and opportunity. Many of the individuals and Jut families we serve —particularly tow -income youth, returning citizens, and single parents —face 24 compounding barriers that require more than just a roof over their heads. They need a 2025 pathway to independence. We urge the Commission to consider funding community -based 9:49 programs Like ours that go beyond shelter and offer real toots for tong -term stability: financial am Literacy, job readiness, vocational certifications, and one-on-one case management. The SHIP MDT funds represent not only a chance to house more people —but to change more Lives. Thank you for your continued Leadership and your commitment to housing equity and community transformation. Sincerely, Brandon Williams Executive Director CEO Financial Literacy Academy a Brandon@ceofinlit.com I 305-849-2035 () wwwceofinLit.com Dear Honorable Commissioners, My name is Brandon Williams, Executive Director of CEO Financial Literacy Academy, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to providing PH. 6 financial Literacy, workforce readiness, and reentry support to underserved residents across 1624 #177 our city. As you consider the allocation of HUD funds, I respectfully urge you to prioritize 1 63 funding for community -based programs that directly support economic mobility, housing NW ALtoca stability, and workforce development. CEO Financial Literacy Academy currently partners with JuL 17th to - Local schools, reentry organizations, and workforce programs to deliver certified training, 24 Bran WiLti Ct, CDB vocational pathways, and essential financial education to youth, returning citizens, and Low- 2025 don ams Mia G income families. We have seen firsthand the transformative power of combining financial 9:45 mi, Funds Literacy with access to housing support, certifications, and employment pipelines. HUD funds am FL FY' distributed toward holistic, community -driven solutions —Like ours —ensure residents not only MDT 3305 2025 obtain shelter, but also the skills and income needed to maintain Long-term stability and 4 thrive. We are ready and equipped to expand our services in partnership with the city. We 2026 urge the Commission to invest in initiatives that meet people where they are —on the streets, in classrooms, and in transition —so we can build Lasting change from the ground up. Thank you for your time, Leadership, and consideration. Mar gare tM Ledf ord 2351 SW 16 Ct Mia mi, FL 3314 5 PH. 19 #177 45 Autho rize - Conv eyanc e/O Ly mpia JuL Theat 24 er - Vote NO on the $10 sale of the historic Olympia Theatre. This is a poor choice for the not 2025 Exec only the building but for the people in the city of Miami. 9:00 ute am Sae MDT Agrm nt - Sport s Lead ership and Mgmt Inc Stree First Last Agen Reco Nam Nam Addr da Public Comment rded e e Item Date ess CA. 9 #178 45 2380 Appro SW ve - 15th Attorn Jul 24 St. ey Nata Lope 2025 Mia Fee N/A Lie z 8:42 mi, Paym FL ent - am MDT 3314 State 5 of Florid a v. ADLP PZ. 12 #178 10 Jul PZAB 24 Chri 3752 Decisi Bara As Vice Chair of the Coconut Grove Village Council, and on behalf of multiple constituents, 2025 stop Kum on we request that lot -splitting be denied in residential areas of NCD. We OPPOSE PZ-12 8:01 her quat Appe am al MDT 4055 Poinci ana Av CA. 1 #178 56 Exec ute PSA Jul 3752 Agrm 24 Chri I request this item be delayed and a more open bid process be considered that includes local Bara Kum nt - 2025 stop institutions that have more expertise and local experience than FSU and that would save the loto quat FSU 7:38 her Ave Cons City considerable monies as listed in the proposal for travel. am ensus MDT Cente r- Tree Ordin ance Katri Morr 4130 PZ. I live around the corner from this lot. Please uphold staffs opinion and deny this lot split. The Jul na is Lyby 12 metrics used in the appellant's analysis were flawed. 24 er #178 2025 Ave 10 7:36 PZAB am Decisi MDT on Appe al- 4055 Poinci Stree First Last Agen Reco Nam Nam Addr da Public Comment rded e e Item Date ess ana Av PZ. 7 #175 This modification to Miami 21 requires extensive review by the community before it goes to Jul 3350 99 any final vote. The Planning Dept staff, itself, has admitted it has not fully evaluated the 24 SW Zonin likely effect of PZ-7. This alone suggests postponing a final vote. The staff should be given Willi Fina 2025 27TH g sufficient time and tools to provide the community with a meaningful evaluation and then am n 5:00 AVE Text- open up their recommendation to public review and comment. Miami 21 was a carefully am 1505 Little crafted zoning plan for the city. Passage of PZ-7 as written today would eviscerate Miami 21's MDT River protections and guardrails around development and undermine public trust in the commission. TOD Willi Arth 680 PZ. 3 Why are Neighborhood Conservation Districts (NCDs) explicitly excluded from these proposed Jul am ur NE #173 zoning ordinances, while Historic Districts are merely assumed to be protected —without a 23 64th 23 dear exemption? Contrary to the City's answer, historic neighborhoods are not limited to T3 2025 Stree Zonin zoning. Many - including Bayside - contain a mix of commercial and residential zoning: T3, 11:4 t, g T4, T5, even T6-8. Take, for example, MiMo Bay Development (Adela 2) at NE 64th Street 2pm #AP Text - and Biscayne Boulevard, which lies within a designated historic district yet is zoned T5-R and MDT H3 Workf T6-8L. Clearly, properties within Historic Districts are eligible for TSND incentives if zoning orce and proximity criteria are met. In theory, Historic Districts should enjoy stronger protections Living under local, state, and federal guidelines. But in practice, these protections often fall short— Devel especially when large-scale developments are proposed adjacent to, or within, single-family opme historic neighborhoods. Design conformity is only part of the equation —scale is the real issue. nt These new zoning tools incentivize vertical density in areas never meant to absorb such Progr impacts. Redundant Protections Aren't a am Problem They're Common Sense If Chapter 23 truly protects Historic Districts as the City claims, then what harm is there in being explicit? NCDs are exempt. Why not also clearly and redundantly exempt Historic Districts in these proposed zoning ordinances? This would avoid any future ambiguity and bolster community trust that the current zoning rules are not being quietly rewritten or undermined. Incentives for Developers —Before Benefits for Residents These two pieces of new zoning legislation provide developers a full toolbox of incentives upfront —including height bonuses, density increases, and parking waivers— and in the case of the TSNDs, before a single train rolls down the Northeast Corridor. How are residents expected to access these proposed train stations? Since many residents live more than a mite from the handful of proposed train stations on the Northern Corridor Commuter RaiL, and those stations wilt not include sufficient parking since TSND developers are being granted parking waivers, then where will commuters park? We are already experiencing a parking crisis on the Upper East Side. Parking waivers on Biscayne Boulevard granted decades ago by the City to generate development on the Upper East Side have created daily conflicts between residential and commercial uses — leading to delivery trucks blocking residential streets or making deliveries in front of residences on side streets or even more egregious, double-parking in the active turning lane on Biscayne and making deliveries across two congested lanes of traffic. Clarifying TDR/TDD Use in Historic Districts A correction is also needed in the City's response: the use of Transfer of Development Rights (TDRs) or Transfer of Development Density (TDDs) in Historic Districts is the reverse of what's been suggested. Properties in Historic Districts are sources of TDRs—not recipients. A perfect example: ACRE's MiMo Bay Development (Adela 2) sold its unused development rights to Michael Swerdlow's Block 55 project in Overtown (coincidentally... or probably not so coincidental, he is also the developer of the Little River Development that has inspired this TSND legislation and has Chairwoman King pushing its passage). Block 55 is surrounded by high -density development and multimodal transit options. Little River is not. So, white TSND may prohibit bypassing historic preservation guidelines, if a T4+ parcel lies within one mite of a train station, it may stilt qualify for TSND benefits —even if it borders or sits within a historic neighborhood. Therefore, as previously stated, who cares about redundancy, if that extra protection of exempting historic districts, wilt make those residents in historic neighborhoods feel more secure that the character of their historic neighborhood wilt not one day be destroyed (intentionally or not) by these developments. Unanswered Questions with Huge Implications 1. Will TSND benefits be stackable with County (Rapid Transit Zones) RTZs First Last Nam Nam e e Stree Addr ess Agen da Item Public Comment and the State's Live Local Act and/or result in adjacent projects that cause these large-scale developments to become even larger? If so, this could exponentially increase development size and density beyond what is currently contemplated. 2. Will these incentives target and displace naturally occurring "true" affordable housing —such as older duplexes and mufti - unit buildings —in neighborhoods like the Upper East Side, Little Haiti, and Liberty City? 3. What safeguards exist to prevent TSND projects from becoming luxury developments with only a token amount of "affordable" housing since only 20% of the development's units must be "affordable" Let's be honest about what 20% "affordable" housing realty means: • Only 6% of units must be under 60% AMI (Area Median Income) • 10% under 100% AMI • 4% under 120% AMI A person making $12/hour earns «$24K/year. That resident cannot afford a $2,000/month apartment defined as "affordable workforce housing" at 120% AMI ($93K/year). We need real subsidized housing units in greater numbers than what these TSND developers are going to be required to deliver, NOT more luxury towers with a few faux -affordable units sprinkled in. Conclusion: A Reckless Tradeoff This legislation turns the City's current zoning logic on its head, offering massive concessions to developers for a modest, vague promise of affordability —without a dear plan for transit, parking, infrastructure, or protection of vulnerable historic neighborhoods. For what? A handful of subsidized units that wilt barely register on our affordable housing crisis Richter scale? It's not hard to see that the costs of both TSND and Workforce Housing zoning proposals far outweigh the benefits. Please DEFER or at the very Least EXEMPT HISTORIC DISTRICTS from these two pieces of legislation. Reco rded Date Willi Arth 680 PZ. 7 Why are Neighborhood Conservation Districts (NCDs) explicitly excluded from these proposed Jul am ur NE #175 zoning ordinances, white Historic Districts are merely assumed to be protected —without a 23 64th 99 dear exemption? Contrary to the City's answer, historic neighborhoods are not limited to T3 2025 Stree Zonin zoning. Many - including Bayside - contain a mix of commercial and residential zoning: T3, 11:4 t, g T4, T5, even T6-8. Take, for example, MiMo Bay Development (Adela 2) at NE 64th Street 1pm #AP Text- and Biscayne Boulevard, which lies within a designated historic district yet is zoned T5-R and MDT H3 Little T6-8L. Clearly, properties within Historic Districts are eligible for TSND incentives if zoning River and proximity criteria are met. In theory, Historic Districts should enjoy stronger protections TOD under local, state, and federal guidelines. But in practice, these protections often fall short — especially when large-scale developments are proposed adjacent to, or within, single-family historic neighborhoods. Design conformity is only part of the equation —scale is the real issue. These new zoning tools incentivize vertical density in areas never meant to absorb such impacts. Redundant Protections Aren't a Problem They're Common Sense If Chapter 23 truly protects Historic Districts as the City claims, then what harm is there in being explicit? NCDs are exempt. Why not also clearly and redundantly exempt Historic Districts in these proposed zoning ordinances? This would avoid any future ambiguity and bolster community trust that the current zoning rules are not being quietly rewritten or undermined. Incentives for Developers —Before Benefits for Residents These two pieces of new zoning legislation provide developers a full toolbox of incentives upfront —including height bonuses, density increases, and parking waivers— and in the case of the TSNDs, before a single train rolls down the Northeast Corridor. How are residents expected to access these proposed train stations? Since many residents live more than a mite from the handful of proposed train stations on the Northern Corridor Commuter RaiL, and those stations wilt not include sufficient parking since TSND developers are being granted parking waivers, then where will commuters park? We are already experiencing a parking crisis on the Upper East Side. Parking waivers on Biscayne Boulevard granted decades ago by the City to generate development on the Upper East Side have created daily conflicts between residential and commercial uses — leading to delivery trucks blocking residential streets or making deliveries in front of residences on side streets or even more egregious, double-parking in the active turning lane on Biscayne and making deliveries across two congested lanes of traffic. Clarifying TDR/TDD Use in Historic Districts A correction is also needed in the City's response: the use of Transfer of Development Rights (TDRs) or Transfer of Development Density (TDDs) in Historic Districts is the reverse of what's been suggested. Properties in Historic Districts are sources of TDRs—not recipients. A perfect example: ACRE's MiMo Bay Development (Adela 2) sold its unused development rights to Michael Swerdlow's Block 55 project in Overtown (coincidentally... or probably not so coincidental, he is also the developer of the Little River Development that has inspired this TSND legislation and has Chairwoman King pushing its passage). Block 55 is surrounded by high -density development and multimodal transit options. Little River is not. So, white TSND First Last Nam Nam e e Stree Addr ess Agen da Item Public Comment may prohibit bypassing historic preservation guidelines, if a T4+ parcel lies within one mile of a train station, it may still qualify for TSND benefits —even if it borders or sits within a historic neighborhood. Therefore, as previously stated, who cares about redundancy, if that extra protection of exempting historic districts, will make those residents in historic neighborhoods feel more secure that the character of their historic neighborhood will not one day be destroyed (intentionally or not) by these developments. Unanswered Questions with Huge Implications 1. Will TSND benefits be stackable with County (Rapid Transit Zones) RTZs and the State's Live Local Act and/or result in adjacent projects that cause these large-scale developments to become even larger? If so, this could exponentially increase development size and density beyond what is currently contemplated. 2. Will these incentives target and displace naturally occurring "true" affordable housing —such as older duplexes and mufti - unit buildings —in neighborhoods like the Upper East Side, Little Haiti, and Liberty City? 3. What safeguards exist to prevent TSND projects from becoming luxury developments with only a token amount of "affordable" housing since only 20% of the development's units must be "affordable" Let's be honest about what 20% "affordable" housing realty means: • Only 6% of units must be under 60% AMI (Area Median Income) • 10% under 100% AMI • 4% under 120% AMI A person making $12/hour earns «$24K/year. That resident cannot afford a $2,000/month apartment defined as "affordable workforce housing" at 120% AMI ($93K/year). We need real subsidized housing units in greater numbers than what these TSND developers are going to be required to deliver, NOT more luxury towers with a few faux -affordable units sprinkled in. Conclusion: A Reckless Tradeoff This legislation turns the City's current zoning logic on its head, offering massive concessions to developers for a modest, vague promise of affordability —without a dear plan for transit, parking, infrastructure, or protection of vulnerable historic neighborhoods. For what? A handful of subsidized units that wilt barely register on our affordable housing crisis Richter scale? It's not hard to see that the costs of both TSND and Workforce Housing zoning proposals far outweigh the benefits. Please DEFER or at the very Last EXEMPT HISTORIC DISTRICTS from these two pieces of legislation. Reco rded Date Willi Arth 680 PZ. 6 Why are Neighborhood Conservation Districts (NCDs) explicitly excluded from these proposed Jul am ur NE #175 zoning ordinances, white Historic Districts are merely assumed to be protected —without a 23 64th 86 dear exemption? Contrary to the City's answer, historic neighborhoods are not limited to T3 2025 Stree Comp zoning. Many - including Bayside - contain a mix of commercial and residential zoning: T3, 11:4 t, rehen T4, T5, even T6-8. Take, for example, MiMo Bay Development (Adela 2) at NE 64th Street Opm #AP sive and Biscayne Boulevard, which lies within a designated historic district yet is zoned T5-R and MDT H3 Plan - T6-8L. Clearly, properties within Historic Districts are eligible for TSND incentives if zoning Little and proximity criteria are met. In theory, Historic Districts should enjoy stronger protections River under local, state, and federal guidelines. But in practice, these protections often fall short— TOD especially when large-scale developments are proposed adjacent to, or within, single-family historic neighborhoods. Design conformity is only part of the equation —scale is the real issue. These new zoning tools incentivize vertical density in areas never meant to absorb such impacts. Redundant Protections Aren't a Problem They're Common Sense If Chapter 23 truly protects Historic Districts as the City claims, then what harm is there in being explicit? NCDs are exempt. Why not also clearly and redundantly exempt Historic Districts in these proposed zoning ordinances? This would avoid any future ambiguity and bolster community trust that the current zoning rules are not being quietly rewritten or undermined. Incentives for Developers —Before Benefits for Residents These two pieces of new zoning legislation provide developers a full toolbox of incentives upfront —including height bonuses, density increases, and parking waivers— and in the case of the TSNDs, before a single train rolls down the Northeast Corridor. How are residents expected to access these proposed train stations? Since many residents live more than a mite from the handful of proposed train stations on the Northern Corridor Commuter RaiL, and those stations wilt not include sufficient parking since TSND developers are being granted parking waivers, then where will commuters park? We are already experiencing a parking crisis on the Upper East Side. Parking waivers on Biscayne Boulevard granted decades ago by the City to generate development on the Upper East Side have created daily conflicts between residential and commercial uses — leading to delivery trucks blocking residential streets or making deliveries in front of residences on side streets or even more egregious, double-parking in the active turning lane on Biscayne and making deliveries across two congested lanes of traffic. Clarifying TDR/TDD Use in Historic Districts First Last Nam Nam e e Stree Addr ess Agen da Item Public Comment A correction is also needed in the City's response: the use of Transfer of Development Rights (TDRs) or Transfer of Development Density (TDDs) in Historic Districts is the reverse of what's been suggested. Properties in Historic Districts are sources of TDRs—not recipients. A perfect example: ACRE's MiMo Bay Development (Adela 2) sold its unused development rights to Michael Swerdlow's Block 55 project in Overtown (coincidentally... or probably not so coincidental, he is also the developer of the Little River Development that has inspired this TSND legislation and has Chairwoman King pushing its passage). Block 55 is surrounded by high -density development and multimodal transit options. Little River is not. So, while TSND may prohibit bypassing historic preservation guidelines, if a T4+ parcel lies within one mile of a train station, it may still qualify for TSND benefits —even if it borders or sits within a historic neighborhood. Therefore, as previously stated, who cares about redundancy, if that extra protection of exempting historic districts, will make those residents in historic neighborhoods feel more secure that the character of their historic neighborhood will not one day be destroyed (intentionally or not) by these developments. Unanswered Questions with Huge Implications 1. Will TSND benefits be stackable with County (Rapid Transit Zones) RTZs and the State's Live Local Act and/or result in adjacent projects that cause these large-scale developments to become even larger? If so, this could exponentially increase development size and density beyond what is currently contemplated. 2. Will these incentives target and displace naturally occurring "true" affordable housing —such as older duplexes and mufti - unit buildings —in neighborhoods like the Upper East Side, Little Haiti, and Liberty City? 3. What safeguards exist to prevent TSND projects from becoming luxury developments with only a token amount of "affordable" housing since only 20% of the development's units must be "affordable" Let's be honest about what 20% "affordable" housing realty means: • Only 6% of units must be under 60% AMI (Area Median Income) • 10% under 100% AMI • 4% under 120% AMI A person making $12/hour earns «$24K/year. That resident cannot afford a $2,000/month apartment defined as "affordable workforce housing" at 120% AMI ($93K/year). We need real subsidized housing units in greater numbers than what these TSND developers are going to be required to deliver, NOT more luxury towers with a few faux -affordable units sprinkled in. Conclusion: A Reckless Tradeoff This legislation turns the City's current zoning logic on its head, offering massive concessions to developers for a modest, vague promise of affordability —without a dear plan for transit, parking, infrastructure, or protection of vulnerable historic neighborhoods. For what? A handful of subsidized units that wilt barely register on our affordable housing crisis Richter scale? It's not hard to see that the costs of both TSND and Workforce Housing zoning proposals far outweigh the benefits. Please DEFER or at the very Least exempt Historic Districts from this piece of zoning legislation Reco rded Date Katri Morr 4130 PH. I urge the Commission to vote no on PH19, the giveaway of the Olympia Theater to a charter Jul na is Lyby 19 school for $10. The City Manager claims we don't have the $40M to restore the theater, even 23 er #177 though money was set aside for just this purpose in the Miami Forever Bond. Furthermore, 2025 Ave 45 right above PH19, is PH18, where the City Manager is giving $80M to ANOTHER charter 11:0 Autho school management company for undisclosed services with no apparent oversight. The City 3pm rize - Manager and the Commission have a fiduciary duty to residents of Miami. If it is found that: • MDT Cony The city waived public bidding arbitrarily or without justification. • Commissioners' decisions eyanc were motivated by political favoritism or self-interest. • Heritage and access obligations are e/Oly overlooked. Then the deal could be considered as lacking due diligence or acting in bad faith, mpia which violates fiduciary duties. We need oversight now. Why do we stilt not have an Inspector Theat General appointment —approved by 79% of voters in August 2024 and championed by both er - you, Commissioner Pardo, and you, Commissioner Gabela, during your campaigns? The Exec public put its trust in this reform. It's time to deliver. ute Sale Agrm nt - Sport s Lead ership and Stree First Last Agen Reco Nam Nam Addr da Public Comment rded e e Item Date ess Mgmt Inc Katri Morr 4130 CA. 1 Please vote no on CA-1. This is a waste of money and FSU is not regionally involved with Jul na is Lyby #178 Miami. FIU is better positioned to provide an assessment and they have a relationship with 23 er 56 IFAS at UF, which also houses NRLI, the Natural Resources Leadership Institute, who 2025 Ave Exec specializes in natural resource dispute resolution. To evaluate which university —Florida 10:2 ute International University (FIU) or Florida State University (FSU)—is better capable of 7pm PSA coordinating a community outreach initiative in Miami around Chapter 17 of the City of Miami MDT Agrm Code (aiming to reach 30% tree canopy, balancing public trust and commercial pressures), nt - here's a weighted comparison across key factors: 1. Local engagement & presence (Weight: FSU 30%) • FIU: • Actively runs the Grove ReLeaf program in Miami, partnering with local Cons community groups to inventory public trees and train volunteers— adding thousands of trees ensus to their database since 2020 . • Co -Led the 2021 county -wide urban canopy assessment with Cente UF—underscoring deep baseline data collection in Miami . • FSU: • Based in TaLtahassee r - (-500 mi away), FSU shows no direct engagement in Miami -specific urban forestry or Chapter Tree 17 programs. Its footprint in Miami is minimal. Advantage: FIU by a wide margin. 2. Policy Ordin expertise & alignment with Chapter 17 rules (Weight: 20%) • FIU: • Involved in canopy ance assessments and published work that aligns with Chapter 17's permit and replacement frameworks. Their active data collection informs actual enforcement and budgeting needs for tree trust funds . • FSU: • No known policy work tied to Miami's Chapter 17 or its Tree Trust Fund; focus is statewide or in TaLtahassee. Advantage: FIU. 3. Capacity for stakeholder outreach & community input (Weight: 25%) • FIU: • Ongoing training of volunteers for canopy surveying suggests a strong network for mobilizing residents. • Collaborates directly with Local NGOs (e.g., Miami Heritage Trust, Miami -Dade Urban Tree Coalition), showing strong systemic integration . • FSU: • Could Leverage statewide extension services or academic prestige —but Lacks infrastructure or existing partnerships in Miami. Advantage: FIU. 4. Balancing public trust vs. commercial pressures (Weight: 15%) • FIU: • Can support balancing interests through evidence -based canopy data, community -trained observers, and informed advocacy rooted in Local context. • Their integration with policy efforts in Miami indicates familiarity with commercial and residential stakeholder dynamics. • FSU: • Without Local involvement, FSU has Limited capacity here. Needs to build partnerships from scratch. Advantage: FIU. 5. Track record & credibility (Weight: 10%) • FIU: • Demonstrated mufti -year engagement, transparent contributions to Local tree data, and joint urban forestry work with county and NGOs. • FSU: • A well -regarded research institution, but Lacking in -city operations or chapter-17-specific contributions. Advantage: FIU. Weighted Comparison: FIU vs FSU 1. Local Engagement & Presence (30%) • FIU: 9/10 — Strong presence in Miami through programs Like Grove ReLeaf and partnerships with Local groups. • FSU: 2/10 — Primarily based in TaLtahassee, minimal presence in Miami. 2. Policy Expertise (Chapter 17 Alignment) (20%) • FIU: 8/10 — Active involvement in canopy assessments and familiarity with Miami's Chapter 17 and Tree Trust Fund. • FSU: 2/10 — No known expertise or contributions specific to Chapter 17. 3. Stakeholder Outreach Capacity (25%) • FIU: 8/10— Proven ability to engage residents and NGOs for urban forestry projects. • FSU: 3/10 — Lacks existing networks in Miami, would require starting from scratch. 4. Balancing Public Trust & Commercial Needs (15%) • FIU: 7/10 — Familiar with navigating Local dynamics between developers, residents, and poLicymakers. • FSU: 2/10 — No direct experience managing these tensions in Miami. 5. Credibility & Track Record (10%) • FIU: 8/10 — Mufti -year experience and trusted contributions in the Miami community. • FSU: 3/10 — Strong academic reputation, but no Local track record for this initiative. Weighted Total Score • FIU: 8.15 / 10 • FSU: 2.45 / 10 Final Recommendation FueLted by proven Local programs, deep policy knowledge, strong community ties, and an ongoing presence in Miami—FIU dearly outpaces FSU in capability to Lead a Chapter 17-focused community outreach initiative. Their efforts tie directly into canopy targets, permit enforcement, public trust editing, and mitigation via the Tree Trust Fund. Next Steps 1. Engage FIU's Environmental Institute and the Grove ReLeaf team to structure volunteer -driven canopy mapping tied to permit applications. 2. Integrate FIU researchers into City of Miami and NGO efforts (Tree Trust Fund oversight, commercial stakeholder negotiation). 3. Facilitate community Listening sessions Led by FIU in key neighborhoods focused on public trust and balancing developer -economy interests. 4. Develop metrics for tracking progress: canopy % gains, permit compliance, community sentiment—aLt areas FIU is already equipped to measure. Conclusion: For an initiative in Miami grounded in Chapter 17's intent (30% canopy, public trust, regulatory balance), FIU offers unmatched Local First Last Nam Nam e e Are ne Are ne Are ne McC rear y McC rear y Stree Addr ess Agen da Item PH. 19 #177 45 Autho rize - Conv 3189 eyanc Flori e/Oly da mpia Ave Theat Coco er - nut Exec Grov ute e, FL Sale 3313 Agrm 3 nt - Sport s Lead ership and Mgmt Inc PZ. 3 3189 #173 Flori 23 da Zonin Aven g ue Text - Coco Workf nut orce Grov Living e, Devel FL. opme 3313 nt 3 Progr am Public Comment infrastructure, data, relationships, and credibility —making it the dear university partner over FSU. Disappointment about giving away this historic site and notice while there is claim the theater will host 180 days of community programming annually, that item is apparently not included in the contract. Concerned about accountability & transparency and permanent public access! This program does not appear to have dear affordability definitions or location limits thus development on city -owned and could be fast -tracked and reckless of responsibility and transparency. 3189 Flori PZ. 7 da #175 Aven 99 McC ue Zonin The intensity of the allowable development raises serious concerns paving the way for dense, rear Coco g high-rise construction. This item should be Deferred as the information available regarding it is y nut Text- incomplete! Grov Little e, FL River 3313 TOD 3 Reco rded Date Jul 23 2025 9:41 pm MDT Jul 23 2025 9:34 pm MDT Jul 23 2025 9:27 pm MDT Are McC 3189 PZ. 7 There is allotment for dense development at transit hubs and this sweeping zoning overlay is Jul ne rear Flori #175 too opportunistic for overdevelopment without regard to historic districts and design 23 y da 99 protections. This item should be Deferred for more review! 2025 Aven Zonin 9:17 ue g Stree First Last Agen Reco Nam Nam Addr da Public Comment rded e e Item Date ess Coco Text- pm nut Little MDT Grov River e, TOD FL. 3313 3 CA. 9 #178 3189 45 Flori Appro da ve - Jul Aven Attorn 23 Arle McC ue ey This is very concerning that I am, through my taxes, paying for the legal defense regarding 2025 rear Coco Fee ne public corruption charges. This legal fee reimbursement is wrong! 9:05 y nut Paym Grov ent - pm MDT e, FL State 3313 of 3 Florid a v. ADLP CA. 1 #178 3189 56 Flori Exec da ute Aven PSA Jul McC ue Agrm 23 We have a good Tree Ordinance and should do a better job using it. The current ordinance Are Coco nt - 2025 rear has protections for trees and a way for homeowners to move a tree if necessary. Don't waste ne nut FSU 8:55 y Grov Cons $ pm e, ensus MDT FL. Cente 3313 r- 3 Tree Ordin ance Kare Carb 532 PH. Dear City of Miami Commissioners The Olympia is a portal to the past. In reference to the Jul Lia oneLt Attar 19 Olympia theater, it holds a Lifetime of memories. I make a point about the importance of not 23 a #177 only the physicality of a building such as the 1920s theater and its historical significance it so 2025 Aven 45 rightfully conveys, but also the emotional connection these same places represent. Places 8:26 ue Autho matter on many Levels. Places are personal. And many of us certainly have experienced a pm rize - personal Lasting connection with the theater and it wasn't all about the physical space. The MDT Cony Olympia opened on FLagLer Street as a silent movie theater in 1926 and then in the 1970s it's eyanc name changed in honor of Maurice Gusman who donated the property to the city in 1975. e/OLy Today, patrons are confused as to the theater's name. Is it the Olympia Theater or the mpia Gusman Center or the Olympia-Gusman? But there is no confusion as to the memories Theat formed at the theater, no matter the name. The Olympia theater means so much more than a er - 100-year old building on FLagLer Street with ornate architecture and timeless charm. Exec Preserving history matters. Not just in the tangible, but in the intangible. Memories, without a ute place to anchor them, fade away. Relegated only to a Proustian moment. It is important to Sale have a provenance of place. These old places, Like the Olympia, are Like portals that access Agrm the past. Places matter. The preservation of space, place matter. Guarding and protecting the nt - authenticity of the 1920s silent movie pa Lace matters. But one must also strive to preserve Sport the collective memories that reside within that space and place. And this task is priceless. s And it matters. Respectfully submitted, Dr. Karelia Martinez Carbonell Local resident and Lead preservation advocate First Last i tree Reco Nam Nam Public Comment rded e e Addr tell) mt Date ess Inc San Mois 5910 PH. I am writing to express my deep opposition to Agenda Item PH.19, which proposes to transfer Jul dy e NE 19 ownership of the historic Olympia Theater, a public cultural landmark, to SLAM Academy, a 23 6th #177 politically connected charter school operator, for just ten dollars. I urge each of you to vote 2025 Cour 45 NO on this rushed, backroom deaL, and instead support a transparent public process that 6:22 t Autho respects the cultural, historical, and economic value of this irreplaceable treasure. You say pm rize - this is a donation to a non-profit, yet private, for -profit charter school management company, MDT Cony Academica, has been front and center at all of the community meetings. The presentation at eyanc the first meeting was conducted by Academica. What is their involvement and how wilt they e/Oly benefit? It is truly inexcusable that the City of Miami has allowed the Olympia Theater to mpia deteriorate to the point where it now claims to have only two options: give it away or let it Theat crumble. How did we get here? And more importantly, who wilt be held accountable? The er - reality is, there are resources available. According to former Commissioner Ken Russel, the Exec City was supposed to allocate $20 million through the Miami Forever Bond for Parks and ute Cultural facilities. What happened to those funds? Whether it was $20 million, $10 million, or Sale $5 million, where is the money, how was it allocated and spent, and how much is still Agrm available and could be used for The Olympia Theater? Why wasn't a portion used to properly nt - maintain, restore, or reactivate the Olympia? What about Miami For Everyone (MFE) funding? Sport Under Commissioner Christine King's leadership, the City allocated $7 million for the Carver s Theater Building in Liberty City, now known as the 7th Avenue Transit Village Theater/Cultural Lead Center. Read more here: https://wwwmiamitodaynews.com/2023/07/11/carver-theater-in- ership liberty -city -to -become -apartments -site/. This summer City Theater hosted their Summer and Shorts plays at the Sandrelt Rivers Theater in this facility and every show was sold out. Many Mgmt of the attendees enjoyed dinner at nearby restaurants, including Naomi's Garden. Theaters Inc and cultural programming can revitalize neighborhoods. Thank you to Commissioner King for showing what real leadership looks like —advocating for the long-term preservation of public assets in her district that enrich the lives of residents throughout Miami -Dade and even Broward. These spaces belong to all of us, and she understands that. Why has landmark Olympia Theater, which has the power to anchor downtown revitalization and fuel our local arts economy, been excluded from serious investment? City Manager Art Noriega claims there is no money, yet City Hall continues to subsidize bad deals for politically favored developers. Meanwhile, Noriega was quoted in the Miami Herald saying, "The City would be crazy not to take this deal." With all due respect: What's truly crazy is thinking this deal is in the public interest. Noriega stated he was responsible or affiliated with the Olympia Theater for 31 years. For 31 years he failed The Olympia Theater, and now wants to unload it for $10 to a charter school and its private, for -profit charter management company. It is morally and fiscally irresponsible to give away the Olympia Theater, a city -owned building of immense cultural and economic value, to a private entity with no demonstrated commitment to the arts, and without even a competitive bid. Even more troubling, the deal appears to include millions in transfer of development rights (TDRs) and air rights that could be sold to nearby developers, public assets that are being handed off with no valuation, no community input, and no transparency. From the beginning, this process has been shrouded in misdirection, half-truths, and deliberately obscure. We were told this deal had to be rushed to have the building ready for the start of the school year in August. The truth, as revealed by the Gusman famity's own attorney, is that this deal is being rushed to settle a lawsuit before the next court hearing. The City may or may not win that case. And if it's true, as many claim, that simply reactivating the Theater with programming could nullify the lawsuit, why isn't the City pursuing that? We just held a successful community event in the theater last week. If it's usable enough for a school in August, why not use it now for public performances and community events and protect the public's interest? Further misleading claims include the City's insistence that the restoration cost is $50 million. What the City faits to explain is that the actual restoration cost for the Theater alone is estimated at $22—$24 million. The remainder of the $50 million figure includes building a new charter school inside the 10-story tower that comes with this deaL, a massive public asset being handed over, along with millions of dollars in Transfer of Development Rights (TDRs). These rights alone could be sold to developers for a substantial return to be utilized to restore the theater. So we ask: How much does the Gusman family or the foundation they control stand to gain from this deal? How much wilt their attorney earn in fees if the City settles? These are critical questions that have gone unanswered. It is deeply troubling that Commissioner Pardo has chosen to place blame on the residents for not requesting funding for the Olympia Theater during the City's budget meetings, as he stated in the "community engagement" meeting at City Hall and posted in a video on Instagram. Why hasn't he posted any video testimony from the attendees who spoke and opposed this giveaway? MOST of the attendees who spoke were opposed. His First Last Nam Nam e e Jord Levi an n Stree Addr ess 4730 NE MIA MI PL Agen da Item PH. 19 #177 45 Autho rize - Conv eyanc e/Oly mpia Theat er - Exec ute Sale Agrm nt - Sport s Lead ership and Mgmt Inc Public Comment instagram looks like a lobbying effort for SLAM and Academica, even posting a professionally made video to encourage support for this giveaway that the community does not want. The City's budget meetings are poorly communicated, often posted on social media with minimal notice and little genuine outreach. But does the Commissioner realty expect us to believe that if residents had shown up and requested funding, the City would have suddenly prioritized restoring the Olympia? That's not how it works and he knows it. The real question is: where was his leadership? Where was his advocacy to ensure that the most important cultural and historic landmark in his own district was protected, maintained, and funded? This is his job. This is what he was elected to do. Before pointing fingers at the public, Commissioner Pardo should look inward and take responsibility for failing to champion the very assets that define our city's soul. Mayor Suarez has asked where the community has been for the last 16 years. But the more important question is: Where has the City's leadership been? Where was the sustained investment? Where was the vision? And to Commissioner Pardo who often says "we need to bring the community along", I ask: How is it bringing the community along when the meetings held were tightly controlled, highly scripted, and excluded real dialogue on the theater's future? This process has been opaque from the start. It reeks of a predetermined outcome and a deliberate effort to keep the public in the dark. The Olympia Theater is not just a building. It is a living piece of Miami's soul. It has the potential to serve as a hub for world -class performances, public programming, education, and downtown revitalization. There is absolutely no reason this must be an either/or scenario. You are voting on giving away the most important historical cultural asset in our city in 24 hours. I understand several of the commissioners were also kept in the dark and only learned about it when it reached the agenda. It is no accident this item was introduced during the summer when people are traveling, hoping it would slip through without notice or opposition. People noticed. The opposition is fierce. I urge you to take the only ethical and responsible path forward: Vote NO on PH.19. Issue an open, competitive RFP that invites visionary public -private partnerships. The previous RFP you issued was flawed. Ensure the City retains ownership of the Olympia, and the people retain access to their cultural legacy. This is a defining moment. You have the power to protect the public trust, or to betray it. If you would like to join the nearly 900 other community members who have signed on to protect Olympia Theater, please sign here: https://www.change.org/p/the-city-of-miami don t give away the oiympia-gusman-theater-for- ten-doLiars We are watching. And we wilt remember how each of you votes. I urge commissioners to reject this giveaway of the Olympia Theater, a precious cultural and historic asset, to a for -profit corporation with a history of corrupt political influence, with no experience in cultural programming or preserving a historic building. The sudden false urgency around this giveaway reeks of corruption and backroom dealing. Miamians are uniting around another plan that would provide funding and stewardship of the Olympia to truly keep it a public and cultural asset. Show that you care about Miami community, culture and history and reject this terrible deal. Reco rded Date Jul 23 2025 6:04 pm MDT First Last Nam Nam e e Stree Addr ess 850 N Mia Rica Huer mi rdo tas Ave Unit #W1 104 Agen da Item RE. 30 #179 22 Direct CM and CC - Straw PoLt within Miam i DDA Public Comment Reco rded Date Jul I'm for No Additional Taxes! The city already stole 65K in property tax from me and they just 23 keep on wanting more and more. That's enough, Miami is completely unaffordable and I have 2025 Lived in the city for 40 years now. We need to help those that have Lived here many years. 3:32 Not just cater to rich that are taking over. pm MDT 661 PH. JuL - MAR NE PH we need 988 and should not be eliminated or under funded. Many young people need this 23 LOP PUBL 2025 IELL EZ 68 IC form of communication of the FCC especially when a crisis of depression Leading to suicide. 1:52 A stree HEAR So please keep in the place. pm t INGS MDT Dear Major Suarez and City Commissioners - As a resident in the City's third most historic district, Bayside, that could be gravely impacted by the TSND & Workforce Housing zoning 698 ordinances, I am urging you to defer topics covering both proposed zoning ordinances so that NE PZ. 7 you can conduct proper public meetings. The TSND Zoom "community meeting" moderated 69th #175 by David Snow, Zoning Dir, on JuLy 15th was NOT a public meeting because it did not foster Jul 99 an open dialogue with your constituents so that we could share and you could address our Stree 23 Zonin concerns surrounding these two proposed zoning ordinances, which could completely up -end Rich MobL t 2025 g our zoning policy in this City! I am concerned that this type of over -development wilt singLe- ard ey Mia 8:24 Text- handedLy ruin our quality of Life, change the character of single-family neighborhoods, mi, am FL Little especially the City's historic neighborhoods Like Bayside, and cause more gridlock in an MDT 3313 River already congested City. The City so far has not been able to convince the public of the TOD benefit to the residents of Miami who wilt have to deal with the ramifications of these two 8 sweeping zoning changes for years to come. At the VERY LEAST, I am asking you to exempt historic districts Like Bayside from both of these proposed zoning ordinances. Thank you for your consideration. Dear Major Suarez and City Commissioners - As a resident in the City's third most historic PZ. 3 #173 district, Bayside, that could be gravely impacted by the TSND & Workforce Housing zoning 698 23 ordinances, I am urging you to defer topics covering both proposed zoning ordinances so that you can conduct proper public meetings. The TSND Zoom "community meeting" moderated NE Zonin by David Snow, Zoning Dir, on JuLy 15th was NOT a public meeting because it did not foster 69th g Jul an open dialogue with your constituents so that we could share and you could address our Stree Text - 23 concerns surrounding these two proposed zoning ordinances, which could completely up -end Rich Mob t Workf 2025 our zoning policy in this City! I am concerned that this type of over -development wilt singLe- ard ey Mia orce 8:24 handedLy ruin our quality of Life, change the character of single-family neighborhoods, mi, Living am especially the City's historic neighborhoods Like Bayside, and cause more gridlock in an FL DeveL MDT already congested City. The City so far has not been able to convince the public of the 3313 opme 8 nt benefit to the residents of Miami who wilt have to deal with the ramifications of these two sweeping zoning changes for years to come. At the VERY LEAST, I am asking you to exempt Progr am historic districts Like Bayside from both of these proposed zoning ordinances. Thank you for your consideration. Rich MobL 698 PZ. 6 Dear Major Suarez and City Commissioners - As a resident in the City's third most historic JuL and ey NE #175 district, Bayside, that could be gravely impacted by the TSND & Workforce Housing zoning 23 69th 86 ordinances, I am urging you to defer topics covering both proposed zoning ordinances so that 2025 Stree Comp you can conduct proper public meetings. The TSND Zoom "community meeting" moderated 8:22 t rehen by David Snow, Zoning Dir, on JuLy 15th was NOT a public meeting because it did not foster am Mia sive an open dialogue with your constituents so that we could share and you could address our MDT First Last FL Nam Nam e e 8 ess Plan - concerns surrounding these two proposed zoning ordinances, which could completely up -end L@ our zoning policy in this City! I am concerned that this type of over -development will single- er Rahtledipmarinei hr quality of life, change the character of single-family neighborhoods, 1@0 especially the City's historic neighborhoods like Bayside, and cause more gridlock in an already congested City. The City so far has not been able to convince the public of the benefit to the residents of Miami who will have to deal with the ramifications of these two sweeping zoning changes for years to come. At the VERY LEAST, I am asking you to exempt historic districts like Bayside from both of these proposed zoning ordinances. Thank you for your consideration. Reco rded Date CA. 1 #178 56 Exec ute 3525 PSA Could you please stop coming up with how to waste taxpayer money on rewriting the tree Jul Agrm ordinance and address more pressing issues of 1) city macerating healthy trees left and right 23 Tatia Oyst he Roya nt - 2) incorrect permits being issued to cut down healthy trees 3) zero effort to try to reach 2025 ana r Palm FSU canopy goals and plant MORE trees. I would like to ask commissioners to VOTE NO on this 7:35 Cons ordinance and ACTUALLY STOP CUTTING ALL THE TREES!!! Spend $182K on sitting down am ave ensus and thinking how to do that MDT Cente r- Tree Ordin ance PH. 19 #177 45 Autho rize - 50 Cony NE eyanc 108 e/Oly Stree mpia Jul t Theat Please vote NO on this item. I strongly support keeping the Olympia Theater and associated 22 Gwe Burz Mia er - building in public ownership. Viable plans exist to turn it into a world -class entertainment 2025 n ycki mi Exec facility and viable means to do so with a public -private partnership also exist, per recent 2:59 Shor ute comments from Commissioner Carolto. Don't give away our Treasure! pm es, Sate MDT FL Agrm 3316 nt - 1 Sport s Lead ership and Mgmt Inc 3333 PZ. 7 Rice Stree #175 Jul 99 t 22 Mar Zonin This ordinance is flawed, and should be deferred, OR limit it to Little River only. Right now Eliss #302 2025 gulie g the only beneficiary is the Developer and Commissioner King's district. The Constituents a s Mia 2:18 Text- outside of her district do not want this as written. mi, Little pm FL MDT River 3313 TOD 3 First Last Nam Nam e e Mac Niaff aufa y Efiss a Mar gufie s Stree Addr ess Agen da Item PH. 19 #177 45 Autho rize - Conv eyanc e/O fy 2640 mpia NE Theat 135t er - h Exec Stree ute t Safe Agrm nt - Sport s Lead ership and Mgmt Inc 3333 Rice Stree #302 Mia mi, FL 3313 3 Public Comment The USA has some of the lowest funding for the arts of any developed country. This proposal to give away the Olympia Theatre to compfetefy inappropriate operators underlines just how bad the issue is here in Miami. I strongly oppose any such 'deaf'. CA. 9 #178 45 Appro ve - Attorn ey Fee Do not authorize! Mr De fa Portiffa can pay his own attorney's fees. Thank you Paym ent - State of Florid a v. ADLP Reco rded Date Jul 22 2025 11:5 2am MDT Juf 21 2025 4:41 pm MDT Afina DIAZ 855 PH. I beg you to Vote NO on giving away our Olympia Theater to a charter school that wilt Juf NE. 19 primarily benefit its for -profit charter management company, Academica. This is a way to 21 76th #177 continue to slaughter our public school system and privatize it. It does absofutefy nothing for 2025 St. 45 the citizens of the City of Miami. On the contrary, it steals from us. Agenda Item PH.19 is a 2:07 Mia Autho no -bid deaf to give away the historic Olympia Theater to SLAM Academy (who wilt later give it pm mi, rize - away to another school - if you read the fine print), aft tied to a pofiticaffy connected charter MDT FL Cony school operator. Although SLAM's "partners" are aft presented as independent nonprofit 3313 eyanc corporations, they are in fact, aft interdependent and associated with Academica, adding to 8 e/Ofy the questionable aspects of this transaction. This resolution allows the City Manager to skip mpia standard public bidding and transfer ownership of one of Miami's most iconic cufturaf Theat landmarks without transparency or community input. It also gives SLAM control of the er - building and minions in vafuabfe air rights and development bonuses. The public deserves a Exec real process, not a rushed giveaway of our city's cufturaf crown jewel. The Olympia isn't just a ute building. It's our cufturaf icon, a historic jewel that belongs to every resident of Miami. Vote Sate NO on giving away our cufturaf icon, the soul of our city. ALINA DIAZ 855 N. E. 76th St., Agrm Miami 33138 305-965-7724 nt - Sport s Stree First Last Agen Reco Nam Nam Addr da Public Comment rded e e Item Date ess Lead ership and Mgmt Inc PH. 19 #177 45 Autho rize - Conv 3333 eyanc Rice e/Oly Stree mpia Jul t Theat 21 Eliss Mar #302 er - 2025 gulie Please do not support the transfer of the Olympia. Put out a legitimate RFP!! Thank you a Mia Exec 2:07 mi, ute pm FL Sale MDT 3313 Agrm 3 nt - Sport s Lead ership and Mgmt Inc PZ. 12 3333 #178 Rice 10 Stree Jul PZAB Mar t Decisi 21 Eliss #302 Please do not allow the lot split. PZAB staff recommended to deny the the split. Please affirm 2025 gulie on Mia a Thank you 2:05 s Appe mi, al pm FL MDT 3313 4055 Poinci 3 ana Av Jaim Pard 49 PH. Dear City of Miami, We are writing to urge your immediate leadership to protect the Jul e o Cam 19 Olympia Theater — one of Miami's most treasured historic and cultural landmarks. At this 21 and pina #177 critical moment, the Commission must act decisively by passing a resolution directing the 2025 Zully Ct 45 City Manager to issue a formal Request for Proposals (RFP) for the restoration and public 1:20 Coral Autho activation of the Olympia. This RFP must include all relevant City -controlled resources — pm Gab rize - specifically, but not limited to: • The potential sale of air rights (TDR/TDD) • A dedicated MDT es, Cony portion of the $79 million in cultural funding from the Miami Forever Bond The resolution FL eyanc should also instruct the City Attorney to inform all relevant parties, including the court, that 3313 e/Oly the City is moving forward in good faith with a transparent, public process. If there is urgency 4 mpia around settling with the Gusman Foundation, we urge you to see it for what it is: a Theat manufactured pressure campaign. The City holds a strong legal position — as long as it er - follows its obligation to act in the public interest and manage this public asset responsibly. Exec This is a defining moment for our city. Please take the lead in ensuring that the Olympia ute Theater remains a vibrant, community -serving cultural institution — not a casualty of political Sale expediency or agreements lacking sunshine. Sincerely, Jaime and Zully Pardo Agrm First Last Nam Nam e e Maji Mari a Ram os Stree Addr ess 555 NE 56 St Mia mi 436 Gon NE zale 77th z Stree t Rd Agen da Item nt - Sport s Lead ership and Mgmt Inc PH. 19 #177 45 Autho rize - Conv eyanc e/Oly mpia Theat er - Exec ute Sate Agrm nt - Sport s Lead ership and Mgmt Inc PH. 19 #177 45 Autho rize - Conv eyanc e/Oly mpia Theat er - Exec ute Sate Agrm nt - Sport s Lead ership and Mgmt Inc Public Comment The historic Olympia Theater is a crown jewel of Miami's cultural legacy! How can the city even think of giving it away especially when there is a fully funded preservation -based proposal developed with architect Richard Heisenbottle and preservationists and cultural Leaders. How is this even in question?! This is shameful! SAVE THE OLYMPIA AND DO NOT SELL TO SLAM CHARTER SCHOOL!! Vote NO on giving away our Olympia Theater to a charter school and its private, for -profit charter management company, Academica. Agenda Item PH.19 is a backroom, no -bid deal to give away the historic Olympia Theater to SLAM Academy, a politically connected charter school operator, for just $10. This resolution allows the City Manager to skip standard public bidding and transfer ownership of one of Miami's most iconic cultural landmarks without transparency or community input. It includes restoration requirements, but also gives SLAM control of the building and millions in valuable air rights and development bonuses. The public deserves a real process, not a rushed giveaway of our city's cultural crown jewel. The Olympia isn't just a building. It's our cultural icon, a historic jewel that belongs to every resident of Miami. For almost 100 years, it has stood as a symbol of who we are and what we value: art, music, storytelling, and public life. And now, the City is proposing to give it away, for ten dollars, to a politically connected charter school and a private, for -profit charter school company, Academica. A company with no history of cultural programming, no stake in preserving or promoting the arts, and no public process to justify this handoff. Vote NO on giving away our cultural icon, the soul of our city. Reco rded Date Jul 21 2025 1:01 pm MDT Jul 21 2025 8:36 am MDT First Last Nam Nam e e Mari a "Mar i" Stree Addr ess 436 NE Gon 77th zaLe Stree z t Rd, Apt 10 Willi Arth am ur WiLti Arth am ur Agen da Item PH. 19 #177 45 Autho rize - Conv eyanc e/Oly mpia Theat er - Exec ute Sale Agrm nt - Sport s Lead ership and Mgmt Inc Public Comment Vote NO on giving away our Olympia Theater to a charter school and its private, for -profit charter management company, Academica. Agenda Item PH.19 is a backroom, no -bid deal to give away the historic Olympia Theater to SLAM Academy, a politically connected charter school operator, for just $10. This resolution allows the City Manager to skip standard public bidding and transfer ownership of one of Miami's most iconic cultural landmarks without transparency or community input. It includes restoration requirements, but also gives SLAM control of the building and millions in valuable air rights and development bonuses. The public deserves a real process, not a rushed giveaway of our city's cultural crown jewel. The Olympia isn't just a building. It's our cultural icon, a historic jewel that belongs to every resident of Miami. For almost 100 years, it has stood as a symbol of who we are and what we value: art, music, storytelling, and public life. And now, the City is proposing to give it away, for ten dollars, to a politically connected charter school and a private, for -profit charter school company, Academica. A company with no history of cultural programming, no stake in preserving or promoting the arts, and no public process to justify this handoff. Vote NO on giving away our cultural icon, the soul of our city. Dear Major Suarez and City Commissioners - As a resident in the City's third most historic district, Bayside, that could be gravely impacted by the TSND & Workforce Housing zoning ordinances, I am urging you to defer topics covering both proposed zoning ordinances so that PZ. 7 you can conduct proper public meetings. The TSND Zoom "community meeting" moderated 680 #175 by David Snow, Zoning Dir, on July 15th was NOT a public meeting because it did not foster NE 99 an open dialogue with your constituents so that we could share and you could address our 64th Zonin concerns surrounding these two proposed zoning ordinances, which could completely up -end Stree g our zoning policy in this City! I am concerned that this type of over -development wilt single- t, Text- handedly ruin our quality of Life, change the character of single-family neighborhoods, #AP Little especially the City's historic neighborhoods Like Bayside, and cause more gridlock in an H3 River already congested City. The City so far has not been able to convince the public of the TOD benefit to the residents of Miami who wilt have to deal with the ramifications of these two sweeping zoning changes for years to come. At the VERY LEAST, I am asking you to exempt historic districts Like Bayside from both of these proposed zoning ordinances. Thank you for your consideration. 680 NE 64th Stree t, #AP H3 PZ. 3 #173 23 Zonin g Text - Workf orce Living DeveL opme nt Progr am Dear Major Suarez and City Commissioners - As a resident in the City's third most historic district, Bayside, that could be gravely impacted by the TSND & Workforce Housing zoning ordinances, I am urging you to defer topics covering both proposed zoning ordinances so that you can conduct proper public meetings. The TSND Zoom "community meeting" moderated by David Snow, Zoning Dir, on JuLy 15th was NOT a public meeting because it did not foster an open dialogue with your constituents so that we could share and you could address our concerns surrounding these two proposed zoning ordinances, which could completely up -end our zoning policy in this City! I am concerned that this type of over -development wilt singLe- handedly ruin our quality of Life, change the character of single-family neighborhoods, especially the City's historic neighborhoods Like Bayside, and cause more gridlock in an already congested City. The City so far has not been able to convince the public of the benefit to the residents of Miami who wilt have to deal with the ramifications of these two sweeping zoning changes for years to come. At the VERY LEAST, I am asking you to exempt historic districts Like Bayside from both of these proposed zoning ordinances. Thank you for your consideration. Reco rded Date Jul 21 2025 8:31 am MDT Jul 20 2025 1:25 pm MDT JuL 20 2025 1:23 pm MDT First Last Nam Nam e e Willi Arth am ur Batt Metr s is Cole y Kristi Stree Addr ess 680 NE 64th Stree t, #AP H3 1885 NE 121 st Stree t Apt 2 Nort h Mia mi Flori da 3318 1 3688 Gom Fran ez kin Ave Agen da Item PZ. 6 #175 86 Com p rehen sive Plan - Little River TOD Public Comment Dear Major Suarez and City Commissioners - As a resident in the City's third most historic district, Bayside, that could be gravely impacted by the TSND & Workforce Housing zoning ordinances, I am urging you to defer topics covering both proposed zoning ordinances so that you can conduct proper public meetings. The TSND Zoom "community meeting" moderated by David Snow, Zoning Dir, on July 15th was NOT a public meeting because it did not foster an open dialogue with your constituents so that we could share and you could address our concerns surrounding these two proposed zoning ordinances, which could completely up -end our zoning policy in this City! I am concerned that this type of over -development will single- handedly ruin our quality of life, change the character of single-family neighborhoods, especially the City's historic neighborhoods like Bayside, and cause more gridlock in an already congested City. The City so far has not been able to convince the public of the benefit to the residents of Miami who will have to deal with the ramifications of these two sweeping zoning changes for years to come. At the VERY LEAST, I am asking you to exempt historic districts like Bayside from both of these proposed zoning ordinances. Thank you for your consideration. Reco rded Date Jul 20 2025 1:20 pm MDT My name is Metris Batts -Coley, and I have the honor of serving as President of The Miami Woman's Club, a historic institution founded on September 20, 1900, just four years after the City of Miami was incorporated. For 125 years, The Miami Woman's Club has stood as a civic partner, a cultural steward, and a committed advocate for the people of this city. Our legacy is PR - deeply intertwined with the history of Miami —from establishing the city's first public library to PRES hosting community forums, concerts, and citywide celebrations. Today, I rise to remind the ENTA Commission of a proud tradition: The Miami Woman's Club has historically collaborated with Jul TION the City of Miami to celebrate its birthday. In fact, in 1949, our Club hosted a formal dinner 18 S and celebration attended by dignitaries and even the Governor of Florida. A direct descendant 2025 AND of Julia Tuttle, the woman credited with founding this city, joined our members to cut the 11:5 PRO ceremonial cake. In 1957, the City and the Club once again shared a joint birthday 5pm CLA celebration. These moments are not only part of our Club's history —they are part of Miami's MDT MATI story. As we approach our 125th anniversary this year, we continue to honor that civic legacy. ONS We believe it's important to uplift the contributions of women in shaping this city's past and its future. We are proud to be here today not only as witnesses, but as participants —ready to contribute to the conversation, preserve our shared history, and strengthen the civic fabric of Miami for generations to come. Thank you for the opportunity to speak —and for your service to the people of this great city. PZ. 12 #178 10 PZAB Please preserve our trees , considered future traffic concerned , the environments and the Decisi charm of our neighborhood. We do not want this lot split. We do. It want to be a concrete on jungle built on top of each other. Stop the madness. Do not allow this lot to be split. Show us Appe you actually work for and care about the ppl you represent. (Not developers and private al- interest. ) vote note. 4055 Poinci ana Av Jul 18 2025 3:48 pm MDT Jenn Lees 3460 PH. Do not split this lot into 3. As a resident born and raised here I am totally against this. I have Jul ifer field Sout 12 drivin past this home for over 30 years. Adding 3 houses on this single lot is inappropriate for 18 h #177 this area. 2025 Moor 78 9:35 ings Accep am Way t - MDT Additi onal HOM E- Stree First Last Agen Reco Nam Nam Addr da Public Comment rded e e Item Date ess ARP Funds PZ. 12 #178 10 Jul PZAB Please DO NOT APPROVE the division of Poinciana into 3 lots, this will set a precedent, Glen 18 Decisi increase density when we need to preserve trees, canopy, space. City of miami already gave Elisa Gaz coe 2025 on too much surface to build on the lots creating a critical lack of green around the new homes. beth ay stree 6:19 t Appe When are you going to realize that what makes the grove special is the canopy and the green am al - and this is what we need with the warmer climate MDT 4055 Poinci 4140 Chri Forr Hardi stine est e ave ana Av PZ. 12 #178 10 PZAB Decisi on Appe al- 4055 Poinci ana Av Absolutely No!!! We need to stop developers from lot splitting. They are removing the essential part of the grove and the trees!! End of Report Jul 17 2025 2:48 pm MDT