HomeMy WebLinkAboutCC 1973-07-26 MinutesMIAMI
CITY
COM MISS I ON
MINUTES
OF MEETING HELD ON
JUL 261973
PREPARED BY THE OFFICE OF THE CITY CLERK
CITY HALL
H. D. SOUTHERN
CITY CLERK
RALPH G. ONGIE
ASSISTANT CITY CLERK
• •
INDEX
MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING
CITY COMMISSION OF MIAMI, FLORIDA
ITEM NO, SUBJECT
ORDINANCE OR
RESOLUTION NO. PAGE NO
11.1I I I i01 11111
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
17.
18.
WAIVE READING OF MINUTES
PROCLAMATIONS+ CERTIFICATES+PLAGUES ETC.
WAIVE RENTAL FEE - MARINE STADIUM
NICARAGUAN BENEFIT
WAIVE RENTAL FEE - BAYFRONT PK.AUDITORIUM
JERRY LEWIS TELETHON
CREATE MIAMI COMMISSION ON THE ECONOMIC
STATUS OF WOMEN
DISCUSSION ABOUT JULIA TUTTLE COMMEMORATION
RECOGNITION OF M. L. REESE - RETIRING AS
CITY MANAGER
RENAME LEJEUNE GOLF COURS
membership for mrs.Reese
VACANCY OF THE CITY MANAGER
RESCIND RESOLUTION 73-520
APPT. P.W. ANDREWS CITY MGR.
DRAFT CHMRTER AMENDMENT
VOTE OF CONFIDENCE OF
PAUL W. ANDREWS AS MANAGER
DEADLINE FOR QUALIFICATION OF CANDIDATES
FOR THE CITY COMMISSION
DRAFT CHARTER AMENDMENT
PERSONAL APPEARANCE- LUCIUS WILLIAMS DDA
RE: 46 west flaEler street
PERSONAL APPEARANCE- REVEREND WILLIAMS RE:
APPT.TO MODEL CITIES BOARD
CONDOLENCES TO FAMILY-CAPT.RICKENBACKER
•VARIANCE - LOTS 2 thru 19, TRACT 19A BLK 21
WADDELLS ADD. REPLAT
ORDINANCE MAKING APPROPRIATIONS
OFF-STREET PARKING BUDGET
PERSONAL APPEARANCE- MR. GLUCK, president
MIAMI COIN CLUB
PUBLIC HEARING - MAYORs COMMITTEE ON STUDY
TO TURN DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION
OVER TO METROPOLITAN DADE COUNTY
CONFIRM ORDERING RESOLUTION
SHENANDOAH HIGHWAY IMPR.
H-4362 AND H-4365
CHANGE ZONING CLASSIFICATION
LOTS 1 thru 5, BLOCS( 1
GRAND VIEW PARK
73-564
73-565
73-566
DISCUSSED
73-567
73-568
73-569
73-570
73-571
73-572
73-573
73-574
73-575
73-576
73-577
DISCUSSED
DISCUSSED
73-578
73-579
73-580
73-581
73-582
73-583
FIRST READING
1
1
2
2
3 & 4
4
5 do 6
6 to 2r
27 & 2
28 to3
32 & 33
33 & 34
34
34
34
35 to 5
58 to 6
61
•
INDEX
MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING
CITY COMMISSION OF MIAMI, FLORIDA
ITEM NO.
SUBJECT
(ORDINANCE OR
RESOLUTION N0. PAGE NO
inarsorin leosocom
• 19.
20.
21.
22.
23.
24.
25.
26.
27.
28.
29.
30.
31.
32.
33.
34.
35.
36.
37.
38.
STATEMENT BY CITY ATTORNEY RE1 LEGAL REPRE-
SENTATION BEFORE THE CITY COMMISSION ON
ZONING MATTERS
CHANGE ZONING CLASSIFICATION
LOTS 10+ 11+ 12+ 13+ BLOCK 8
WINTER GARDEN 1ST AMD.
VARIANCE - LOT 2 & 3+ BLOCK 58N
MIAMI B-41
ACCEPT COMPLETED WORK
CORAL WAY SOUTH HIGHWAY IMPROVEMENT H-4354
REVIEW OF CONDITIONAL USE- OFF ST.PARKING BY
EMPLOYEES OF MIAMI BEACH AIR TRANSPORT
CONDITIONAL USE- LOTS 1 thru 5 & 16 thru 20
BLOCK 22N - MIAMI B-42
(Greyhound Bus Terminal)
CONDITIONAL USE - HALL TRACT - Tentative
Plat d;873 - 200 S. E. 2nd Avenue
(Howard Johnsons Motor Lodge)
VARIANCE - Unplatted Property
1764 S. W. 3rd Avenue
CONDITIONAL USE - LOTS 26+ 27+ BLOCK 2
NEW HAVEN (6-184)
CONDITIONAL USE - LOTS 13+ 14+ BLOCK 2
MELROSE HEIGHTS (11-17)
PERSONAL APPEARANCE - W. D. TOLBERT RE:
CHILD DAY CARE CENTERS
REVIEW OF CONDITIONAL USE -
MECHANICALLY OPERATED PARKING STRUCTURE
Biscayne Boulevard at 3rd Street
ACCEPT COMPLETED WORK -
FENCING FOR FIRE STATIONS
ACCEPT COMPLETED WORK -
SOUTHERN DRAINAGE PROJECT E-27
ACCEPT COMPLETED WORK-
N.W. 17 AVE. T.V. INSPECTION ETC.
ACCEPT PLAT - ELDA GARDENS SUBDIVISION
DISCLAIMER AGREEMENT TO METRO DADE COUNTY
ACCEPT COVENANT -
Allen R. Greenwald and Jill F. Greenwald
NAME BICYCLE PATH - SIEGENDORF BIKE PATH
ACCEPT STATE GRANT- SIEGENDORF BIKE PATH
DISCUSSED
DISCUSSED
73-584
73-585
73-586
61 to63-
63 to 65
65 & 66
67
67 to 69
DISCUSSED '70 to 72
73-587
73-588
73-589
73-590
DISCUSSED
DISCUSSED
73-591
73-592
73-593
73-594
73-595
73-596
73-597
73-598
73
73
74
74
75
76 & 77
77
77
78
78
79
79
80
80
a •
INDEX
MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING
CITY COMMISSION OF MIAMI, FLORIDA
ITEM NO,1 SUBJECT
ORDINANCE OR
RESOLUTION NO, PAGE NO,.
39. ACCEPT HIGHWAY RIGHT OF WAY DEED
Leo and Phyllis La Rose
40. ALLOCATE $25,000 - APPRAISAL SERVICES
Parks for People Bond Program
41. FEE SIMPLE TITLE - DALLAS PARK
42. FEE SIMPLE TITLE - EATON PARK
43. DUPLICATE TAX CERTIFICATE- Marguerite Lewin
44. EXTENSION OF EMPLOYMENT - Pio Zulich
45. FEDERAL GRANT APPLICATION
MANAGEMENT DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM
46. AUTHORIZE RECEIVE BIDS FOR ASPHALT WALKWAYS
& LIGHTING IN THE DINNER KEY AREA
47. CONSULTING SERVICES- REDESIGN OF SOUND
SYSTEM AT THE MARINE STADIUM
48. LXTENSION OF EMPLOYMENT - Charles I. Berry
49. BOXING & WRESTLING BOARD TRAVEL TO THE
WORLD BOXING ASSOCIATION MEETING
50. ALLOCATE $21,000 FROM PUBLIC PARK AND REC-
REATIONAL FACILITIES BOND FUNDS TO COMPEN-
SATE EDWARD D. STONE JR., & ASSOCIATES
51. SPECIAL CHARGE ACCOUNTS - HOTELS & MOTELS
LE JEUNE & MIAMI SPRINGS GOLF COURSES
52. PUBLIC HEARING - OFF ST.PARKING BUDGET
53. CONDITIONAL USE LOTS 1 thru 5 & 5 thru 16
BLOCK 22N MIAMI-B-41
(Greyhound Bus Terminal)- See also Item 24
54. ALLOCATE ADDITIONAL SUM FROM CONTINGENT FUND
FINAL COMPENSATION TO CITYS ARBITRATOR IN
TRI-PARTITE ADVISORY ARBITRATION PROCEEDINGS
55. AWARD BID - VIRGINIA GROVE HIGHWAY IMPR.
H-4358
56. COMPLETION DATE OF IMPROVEMENTS ON SOUTH
BAYSHORE DRIVE
57. AWARD BID - SAN MARCO SANITARY SEWER IMPR.
SR-5316-
58. AWARD BID - BASEBALL BACKSTOPS
59. AWARD BID - WYNDWOOD PARK COMMUNITY
BUILDING ALTERATIONS
60. AWARD BID— CENTRAL DRAINAGE PROJECT E-29
73-599
73-600
73-601
73-602
73-603
73-604
73-605
73-606
73-607
73-608
73-609
73-610
73-611
ORDINANCE
NO. 8172
73-612
73-613
73-614
DISCUSSED
73-615
73-616
73-617
73-618
81
81
82
82
83
83
84
84
85
85
86
86
87
88 & 89
89 to 91
91 & 92
92
93
93
94
94
95 & 96
69.
70.
71.
72.
73.
74.
75.
76.
INDEX
MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING
CITY COMMISSION OF MIAMI, FLORIDA
SUBJECT
PARKING LOT LIGHTING
DESIGN STANDARDS & PARKING LOT REVIEW BOARD
CONDITIONAL USE - LOT 3+ BLOCK 79N
MIAMI (B-41)
CITY FLAGS TO FLY AT HALE STAFF -
DEATH OF CAPTAIN EDDIE RICKENBACKER
PERSONAL APPEARANCE - MR. DAN PAUL RE:
RESTAURANTS ASSOCIATES LEASE AT ORANGE BOWL
CLAIM SETTLEMENT - TANIA JIMENEZ
ACCEPT PLAT- SOUTH BAYSHORE DRIVE
RATIFY STIPULATION OF AGREEMENT
ROBBIE ET.A. VS. THE CITY OF MIAMI ET.AL.
RESTAURANTS ASSOCIATES - MIAMI DOLPHINS ETC.
ADVISORY ARBITRATION AWARD OF AMERICAN
FEDERATION OF STATE, COUNTY AND MUNICIPAL
EMPLOYEES+ LOCAL 654 & THE CITY OF MIAMI
PETITION FROM CITY EMPLOYEES IN THE
DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION
PENSION INVESTMENT COMMITTEE
RECOMMENDATION ON INVESTMENT ACTIVITIES
BOOZ-ALLEN & HAMILTON
INTERIM PRESENTATION ON MANAGEMENT STUDY
VARIANCE - N. 22.5= LOT 6+ BLOCK 3
COPPINGERS TROPICAL GARDENS
MAKE PROVISION FOR HOLDING NON -PARTISAN
PRIMARY ELECTION & REGULAR ELECTION FOR
OFFICES OF MAYOR & CITY COMMISSIONERS
FULL TIME CITY ATTORNEY - CONSIDERATION OF
CHARTER AMENDMENT AND STATEMENT BY
COMMISSIONER J. L. PLUMMER
PROPOSED CHARTER AMENDMENT- HIGHWAY IMPRO-
VEMENTS
PROPOSED CHARTER AMENDMENT- CONNECTIONS TO
SANITARY SEWER SYSTEM
ORDINANCE OR
RESOLUTION NO+
ORDINANCE
NO. 8173
NO. 8174
73-619
73-620
73-621
DISCUSSED
73-622
DISCUSSED
PAGE NO,
96-106
107
107
,108-109
110
110--114
73-623 114--115
THERE -IS S NO PA.4E 116
73-624 117--128
DISCUSSED
73-625
DISCUSSED
DISCUSSED
73-626
DISCUSSED
ORDINANCE
NO. 8175
,,ORDINANCE NO.
9F'8176
,129--132
132--138
139--143
144--148
148
149--151
152
153
•
INDEX
MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING
CITY COMMISSION OF MIAMI, FLORIDA
a
ITEM NO, SUBJECT
77.
78.
79.
80.
81.
82.
83.
84.
85.
86.
87.
88.
89.
90.
91.
92.
93.
94.
95.
96.
PROPOSED CHARTER AMENDMENT —
MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE RATE OF INTEREST
PROPOSED CHARTER AMENDMENT —
DELETE LIMITATION OF YEARS ON ASSESSMENTS
FOR IMPROVEMENTS
PROPOSED CHARTER AMENDMENT —
CHANGE TIME FOR DEADLINE ON QUALIFICATION
MAKE PROVISION FOR SPECIAL ELECTION FOR
CHARTER AMENDMENTS 73-627
PLANNING AND ZONING PROCEDURES
CONTINUATION OF HEARING 73-628
ORDINANCE OR
RESOLUTION NO, PAGE NO -
ORDINANCE
NO. 8177
ORDINANCE
NO. 8178
ORDINANCE
NO. 8179
HISTORICAL MARKER —
COMMEMORATE LANDING OF MENENDEZ 73-629
FIXING DETAILS ON SALARY FOR PAUL W. ANDREWS
WHEN HE ASSUMES DUTIES OF CITY MANAGER 73-630
AUTHORIZE AGREEMENT — MEL REESE & ASSOCIATES 73-631
ORANGE BOWL IMPROVEMENTS PROGRAM
REFINED ESTIMATES 73-632
TRANSFER FROM CONTINGENCY FUND TO PROPER
ACCOUNT $806.40 FOR INVESTIGATION OF 72
FIREFIGHTERS ON DISABILITY PAYROLL
RECEIVE INFORMAL BIDS —
OPERATION OF SUMMER YOUTH TRANSPORTATION
PROGRAM
MAKE APPLICATION TO NATIONAL LEAGUE OF CITIE
U.S.CONFERENCE OF MAYORS
SUMMER YOUTH TRANSPORTATION PROGRAM
MAKE APPLICATION TO REGIONAL OFFICE OF
ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITY RECREATION SUPPORT
PROGRAM
PURCHASE BY NEGOTIATION— PARCEL 7091.4
LATIN REVERFRONT PARK
APPOINTMENT TO YOUTH ADVISORY BOARD
MERGE YOUTH ADVISORY BOARD WITH YOUTH
RELATIONS BOARD AND REMANE YOUTH ADV.BD.
CITY MANAGERS REPORT ON MEETINGS WITH
PANCOAST ASSOCIATES
PROPOSED CHT.AMD, CITY MANAGER
PROPOSED CHARTER AMENDMENT— CITY ATTORNEY
FAREWELL STATEMENT BY RETIRING CITY MANAGER
M. L. REESE
73-633
73-634
73-635
73-636
73-637
73-638
73-639
73-640
DISCUSSED
ORD.8180
154
155
156
157
158--161
162
163
164--16`
167--17
172
172
173
173
174
174
175
175--18
183--18
186
187
FINIS
11 i uu i hi 1111 111111111Y1 n u n Iria ul imi�l+r��ir�u+ i1 r+rrn
MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING
CITY COMMISSION OF MIAMI, FLORIDA
On the 26th day o6 1u.ty, 1973, the City Comm,i.aeion o6 the City
o i Miami, Fto..ida, met at its keg utan meeting ptace at City Hatt in
.said City .in neguta/L session. The meeting wa6 caned to onden at
9:07 O'Ctock A.M. by Mayon Maun.Lee Fenne.
On /Lott catt, the Ottow.ing memben6 o6 the Commission wee Sound
to be pne6ent:
Mt. Ptummen
Mk. Reboso
Mn.6. Gordon
Reverend Gibson
Mayon Foote
ABSENT: None.
An invocation wa6 dettvened and Ptedge o6 ALteg.ianee to the Ftag.
1, WAIVING READING OF MINUTES OF PREVLOUMEETING
The following motion was introduced by Mr. Plummer who moved
its adoption:
A MOTION TO WAIVE THE READING OF THE MINUTES
OF THE PREVIOUS CITY COMMISSION MEETING
Upon being seconded by Reverend Gibson, the motion was passed and
adopted by the following vote - AYES: Messrs. Plummer, Reboso, Mrs.
Gordon, Reverend Gibson and Mayor Ferre. NOES: None
2, PROCLAMATIONS. CERTIFICATES OF APPRECIATION, PLAQUES ETC.
(a) KEY TO THE CITY pnesented to .the Mayon 06 Midan, Indonesia
(b) PLAQUE /Leeogn.izing the esso/cts o6 W.itt,i.am H. Watket
Robert W. Waken
Jo6eph H. Waken
,in connection with ,the.in new F.Ln6t Fedenat Building
(c) PLAQUE to Mts. Heten Fnye on the occasion of hen net.i./Lement
6/tom the City o6 Miami, a 6ten 22 yean6 0 S 6 env.Lce
(d) CERTIFICATE OF APPRECIATION to Sue Sponnavitte
(e) CERTIFICATE OF APPRECIATION to Anmando La Casa in
neeognition o6 h.La civic .involvement
(6) PROCLAMATION 6o/L August 20, 1973 a6 WOMEN'S RIGHTS WEEK
£n the City o6 Miami
(g) CERTIFICATES OF APPRECIATION to Ma. Gwen Cheney
Ma. Juanita Gneen
(h) PROCLAMATION o6 Sunday, Jay 28, 1973 commemonating the
17th B.inthday o6 the City o6 Miami
1
JUL 261973
EP
i SIN 11111111111 tlmilYI
WAIVE RENTAL FEE- MARINE STADIUM FOR NICARAGUAN BENEFIT
The following resolution was introduced by Reverend Gibson
who moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 73-564
A RESOLUTION WAIVING RENTAL FEE FOR USE OF THE
MARINE STADIUM ON AUGUST 11, 1973, FOR A RELIEF
BENEFIT FOR NICARAGUAN EARTHQUAIC: VICTIMS, SUB-
JECT TO PAYMENT OF NECESSARY EXPENSES
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here and on
file in the City Clerks Office)
Upon being seconded by Mr. Reboso, the resolution was passed
and adopted by the following vote - AYES: Messrs. Reboso, Plummer,
Mrs. Gordon, Reverend Gibson and Mayor Ferre. NOES: None
4, WAIVE RENTAL FEET- BAYFRONT AUDITORIUM- JERRY LEWIS TELETHON
The following resolution was introduced by Reverend Gibson
who moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 73-565
A RESOLUTION WAIVING RENTAL FEE FOR THE BAYFRONT PARK
AUDITORIUM FOR THP UPCOMING JERRY LEWIS LABOR DAY
TELETHON FOR MUSCULAR DYSTROPHY, SUBJECT TO PAYMENT
OF NECESSARY EXPENSES
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here and on
file in the City Clerks Office)
Upon being seconded by Mr. Plummer, the resolution was passed
and adopted by the following vote - AYES: Messrs. Plummer, Reboso,
Mrs. Gordon, Reverend 'Gibson and Mayor Ferre. NOES: None
2
• •
5, CREATE MIAMI COMMISSION ON THE ECOMONIC STATUS OF WOMEN
Mayor Ferre announced the chair would recognize the presence
of Ms. Eunice Liberty and Mg. Roxcy Bolton.
Ms. Bolton: Mr. Mayor and members of the Commission, I live at 1302
Alhambra Circle in Coral Gables.
I am here today to ask the Miami City Commission to consider naming a
Miami Commission on the Status of Women. I envision such a Commission
that would include 15 women and would mean each Commissioner would have
an opportunity to name 3 women to this Commission to deal with those
problems relating to women within the City of Miami and female city
employees to deal with the economic status of women in this city.
I think you would be able to get a large number of representatives.
One of the great needs of this city which you have ignored is the
economic status of women. The City of Miami does not have an affirmative
action program and I should think that the City of Miami Commission on
the status of women would prod and nudge this Commission to act and act
at once on the economic status of women. There are many areas that
such a commission would be able to advise and counsel you. The last
review I had of this City board, there was a lack of women on those
boards. Each Commissioner would have an opportunity to turn to this
Commission as one of the distinguished members of this Commission said
to me once, Father, where are all of these women? I try to find women
but when Father Gibson is running for public office, he never has a
bit of trouble finding women to vote for him so I don't think any of
you would have difficulty in finding women to serve on boards at this
time of year.
Mayor Ferre: Or any other time, I am sure.
Ms. Bolton: It is hoped today, you will take some action to establish
a Commission throughout the country, each municipality, each city is
being asked to establish such a commission to bring women closer toward
equal economic status, thank you.
Mrs. Gordon: I concur with what Roxcy has said and I do think that the
City will benefit from the input that we will receive from this
status of women commission. I know that the county has a very fine
status of women commission and the chairman is sitting here in the
audience, Anne Wilson, and she is leading a groupof women very effect-
ively and I have watched them work and am proud of them and hope we can
do the same thing here in the city and that they will work cooperatively
with the county and with any other groups that form.
Ms. Bolton: I know Mr. Mayor you do have some vacancies coming up in
the City of Miami and they are two of the best paying jobs in this
city. I am a little concerned -
Mayor Ferre: Lets vote on this first.
Mr. Southern, City Clerk: This is just creating the Commission with the
members to be appointed at a later date?
Mayor Ferre: Yes. A commission of 15 to be appointed at the next
meeting.
The following resolution was introduced by Mrs. Gordon who moved
its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 73-566
A RESOLUTION CREATING A MIAMI COMMISSION ON THE
STATUS OF WOMEN, TO CONSIST OF FIFTEEN WOMEN TO BE
APPOINTED AT A LATER DATE
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here and on file
in the City Clerks Office)
3
•
11 IMISMI lY11I111i1
1
1
1
1
1
r
1
1
1
Upon being seconded by Reverend Gibson, the resolution was
passed and adopted by the following vote - AYES: Messrs. Plummer,
Reboso,, Mrs. Gordon, Reverend Gibson and Mayor Ferre. NOES: None
Ms. Bolton: There are 2 of the best paying jobs in this city that will
be vacant, I hear very soon. I trust that this City Commission will
not just consider men for these jobs. When I hear members of this
Commission referring to the City Manager's job, as the best qualified
man, I resent that very much because there are women in this community
and there are women throughout this country that could do this job just
as good as Mr. Reese. Some of those women I would like to direct your
attention to for your consideration is Eileen Lotts with Metro. Mrs.
Lotts is an able woman.
When Mr. Goode took the job as county manager, he had never been a
county manager before, never, to take over a tremendous responsibility.
No one would question the fact that he is eminently qualified and he
is going to be making more money than the Governor so he must be doing
a good job, so, he had never had any experience. No one ever said,
what previous experience do you have being county manager? He had brains
and he knew how to get a job done and that's what it takes.
Another women that could do the job that Mr. Reese is doing just as
good, is Juanita Greene. Juanita Greene could clean up this town and
make it so clean, you could eat off the streets, so do not just consider
the best qualified man for the city manager's job but the best qualified
person. Mr. Rothstein is going to be leaving I hear pretty soon, I
think you should consider a woman for that job as well as the best
qualified persons. Thank you.
6, DISCUS$J8a-ABOUT JULIA TUTTLE COMMEMORATFON
Mayor Ferre: Mr. Reese, some time ago, this Commission went on record
as wanting to recognize Julia Tuttle who was a great pioneer of this
community and I would like to request that we be updated as to where
we stand on the statue or the plaque or commemorative plaque or what
ever it is, that was ordered by the Commission at that time and I think
we ought to place it in a very prominent location either in Bayfront
Park or in the Coconut Grove Bayfront Park. I would preferably like to
see it at downtown Miami Bayfront Park because that i.s certainly the
center of Miami to commemorate people who have been significant in the
past and I think we have a two -fold purpose. 1. That Julia Tuttle was
a great pioneer of this community and 2. She was certainly an zLtive
women for her time and would have been today if she were alive.
I would like for you to report back to on where we stand on that.
Mr. Reese: Mr. Mayor, and members of the Commission. For years there
was a Julia Tuttle park in the downtown area. When the leg of the
expressway that goes east and west was being constructed etc., that
particular site was taken over. The highway engineers working on this
particular highway were endeavoring their utmost to protect a tree
that was down there for a long time as the hub or the center, of this
small park in commemoration of Julia Tuttle. This tree was then in the
way and they acquired this land and the tree had to be taken down at
which time, there was a plaque put there at that particular spot in
commemoration of the site and Julia Tuttle. When this question was
raised the other day by the Mayor to me by telephone, we started to
go back through the records and find that as of this morning, we went
downto look for the plaque and it isn't there any more.
It's natural for this city. We are losing plaques all over Watson
island. Evidently somebody likes to take them home and I didn't think
women would be interested in taking plaques. I am not even insinuating
they did.
I think the City should put up such a plaque and I think a very good
place would be Bayfront Park and as you know, Mr. Stone's proposal, the
remodeling of it, is to make a mall area in there for all of the
monuments in commemorating the people and I think that would be the
place for that particular statue or monument put.
Mayor Ferre: Thank you very much.
4 JUL 261973
dP
gliestigrauEt L. REESE, RETIRING CITY MANAGERIL RENMING OF LE JONE
7,
Mayor Ferre: Since this is Mr. Reese's final meeting after almost 14
years as Manager of this City, I think it's very appropriate that we
take some time this morning to recognize him once more and go over
valuable service that Mr. Reese has rendered to the City of Miami and
indeed to all of Dade County. Over the years, Mr. Reese, has sometimes
been accused of being stubborn, being difficult, of not informing
people properly and I must admit that in my own time, I personally had
words with Mr. Reese as I think, have all of us, and I think Mr. Reese
has had words with us but I want to publicly recognize Mr. Reese as
Mayor of this City and say that I have absolutely no question that
this City of Miami would not be where it is, if it were not for
Mel Reese.
As a matter of fact, I will go as far as saying, I don't think.
we would have a City of Miami today if it were not for Mel Reese.
It's been Mr. Reese's firmness. Mr. Reese's stubborness. Mr. Reese's
wisdom. Mr. Reese's dedication to this community, that has brought us
forward, I think, despite all criticism, with flying colors. I think
we stand where we stand strongly, firmly. I think financially secure.
It's a progressive City because of the work of Melvin Reese.
I think it would be appropriate as we have stated before that we
recognize Mr. Reese somehow, symbolically, physically so that as the
years go by, the people of this community will repeat his name and
remember him and recognize the contribution that he made to this
community of ours and I would like to pass the gavel over to Father
Gibson so that I would have the honor of offering the following
resolution. This is formally because we didn't do this formally the
last time.
The following resolution was introduced by Mayor Ferre who
moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 73-567
A RESOLUTION RECOGNIZING THE VALUABLE SERVICES OF
M. L. REESE, AS CITY MANAGER OF THE CITY OF MIAMI
OVER THE PAST 13 YEARS; RENAMING THE LE LEUNE GOLF
COURSE, THE MELREESE GOLF COURSE; EXTENDING TO MR.
M. L. REESE A LIFETIME MEMBERSHIP TO SAID GOLF
COURSE AND THE USE OF A GOLF CART AT SUCH TIMES AS
HE MAY DESIRE
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here and on file
in the City Clerks Office)
Upon being seconded by Mrs. Gordon, the resolution was passed
and adopted by the following vote - AYES: Messrs. Plummer, Reboso,
Mrs. Gordon, Reverend Gibson and Mayor Ferre. NOES: None
Mayor Ferre: This will include establishment of a committee headed
at this time by Commissioner Plummer and Mr. Lew Price to be expanded
eventually to include all of us on the Commission and others that
will join the Commission to have an appropriate day to recognize
Mr. Reese in a more formal way by dedicating the golf course to him
and having an appropriate affair to go along with it.
Mr. Reese, this is just a small little plaque. We are going to give
you a real big plaque and a real good one and this one says,
City o6 Miami Got Coun4e4 Hononany Lie Membenahip Awarded
to Melvin L. Reea a in appneciatio n o b his many yeaxa o 6
devoted 4etviee to the City o6 Miami - Juey 1973
5 JUL 2 6197
Mr. Plummer: Mr. Mayor, Mr. Reese would maybe be too embarassed to
bring this up but I brought it up at the last meeting and I think
it would only be appropriate that such a card also be issued for his
wife to keep him out of trouble but will move one cart be included
in the motion.
The following resolution was introduced by Mr. Plummer who moved
its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 73-568
A RESOLUTION EXTENDING TO MRS. M. L. REESE, A
LIFETIME MEMBERSHIP TO' THE MELREESE GOLF COURSE
AND THE USB OF A GOLF CARD AT SUCH TIMES AS SHE
MAY DESIRE
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here and on file
in the City Clerks Office)
Upon being seconded by Reverend Gibson, the resolution was
passed and adopted by the following vote - AYES: Messrs. Plummer,
Reboso, Mrs. Gordon, Reverend Gibson and Mayor Ferre. NOES: None
Mn. Ree4e: T Leanned a Bong time ago that I wa4 neven ab!e to bay on
expne44 on intenpnet to the pub.Uc my appneciati.on on to anybody e.e4e
06 ate .he wonden6ut. thinga, the good momenta and happy houn4 they have
extended me. We atway4 ate in a great po4.etion o 6 pointing 6ingen4 when
somebody i4 eating name4 and one o6 the good examp.ee4 i4 4ometh.Lng that
.c4 going on .in new4papen4 and televiz i.on today. 1 appreciate that mote
than anybody e•E4e I gue44 in say own caZeuZat.i.on4 and appZ.i.cation.
The only thing I can 4ay , it .ca 6.c,.tti,ng and no Wohd4 have even
been ab.Ze to 4ub4titute it, 1 4 ay thank you 64om the bottom 015 any heart.
VACANCY OF CITY MANAGER - DISCUSSION -.
=RESCIND RESOLUTION 73-52o.
=APPOINT PAUL W. ANDREWS CITY MANAGER
=DRAFT CHARTER AMENDMENT. ••
°VOTE OF CONFIDENCE TO PAUL W. ANDREWS
Mayor Ferre: At this time, I would like to bring up for discussion,
the matter of the vacancy created by Mr. Reese's retirement on the
17th of August and I would like to pass the gavel over to Father
Gibson for the purpose of making a motion. It is my opinion that as
I stated previously, that Mr. Reese's retirement is going to be very
difficult to fill. I do feel strongly that it should not be a
Commission where there are three appointed members thgt should fill
that very important vacancy. It is my opinion that the job should be
done by an elected Commission which of course will be as of November.
There is a lot of criticism and talk here and there about appointments
and appointed Commissioners but what oople don't recognize and we want
t: point out is that ovary g YmtrAbt ho ro 10 auu o 1 nn i;ud Commission 50 ;it
is the people who make that decision & they make it every 2 years as they
will this November. Aikthink it is appropriate tkt it be an elected
Commission that appo s the permanent Manager a therefore in the interes
of that and not wishing in any way to make that job difficult or create
any burdens on that decision or in any way encumber or create problems
for the prospective candidates,
I would like to make a motion that the vacancy not be
filled until November al.d as a part of the motion, I would like to
state that our very able capable .Assistant City Manager, Mr. Paul
Andrews will have full'authority to act during the time as the City
Manager.
Mr. Rothstein: Mr. Mayor, may I read you the resolution?
Mayor Ferre: I will at this time since I aske4 Mr. Rothstein to prepare
this in legal form, to read the resolution as it
has been prepared by the legal Department.
Mr. Rothstein:
A RESOLUTION DESIGNATING PAUL W. ANDREWS TO ACT
ON BEHALF OF THE CITY OF MIAMI DURING THE ABSENCE
OF THE CITY MANAGER AND UNTIL SUCH TIME AS THE
ABSENCE IS TERMINATED BY THE APPOINTMENT OF A CITY
MANAGER AND TO PERFORM SUCH DUTIES AS MAY BE REQ-
UIRED BY THE CITY COMMISSION.
BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF MIAMI:
Section 1. Pursuant to the appropriate provisions of Section 15 of
the Charter of the City of Miami, Assistant City Manager, Paul W.
Andrews is hereby designated to act on behalf of the City of Miami to
act during the absence of the City Manager until such time as the
absence is terminated by the appointment of a City Manager.
Section 2. The Said Paul W. Andrews will perform such duties as may
be required of him by the City Commission.
This is pursuant to Section 15. Mr. Andrews keeps his position
as Assistant City Manager and gets paid as such because the provision
in the Charter says that someone who is appointed to act on behalf of
the City in the absence of the City Manage-' can receive no salary.
Mrs. Gordon: A point of Information -
Mayor Ferre: Before I finish making the motion. Before we finalize,
I want to make this statement:
I don't want anybody to misinterpret my action today, thinking that I
do not support Mr. Paul Andrews and I will go this far to make it very
emphatic. If in fact this were November and if in fact we were sitting
here today as a fully elected City Commission, I would have made the
motion to appoint Mr. Paul Andrews and I want the record to reflect
that.
Mrs. Gordon: A point of information Mr. Mayor. To the Attorney.
In your wording which you so carefully made. You did not specify
Interim in any way. Does this change the meaning in legal jargon
so that Mr. Andrews in other words, would be the City Manager during
this period of time as an Acting City Manager?
Mr. Rothstein: There is no such provision in the Charter for any
post as Acting City Manager or Interim City Manager.
Section 15 provides that in the absence of a Manager, the Commission
can appoint somebody to act for the City and would have those duties
but that person cannot have a salary. Therefore, Mr. Andrews is not
appointed as a City Manager to answer your question. He is
Assistant City Manager but this Commission has appointed him to act
on their behalf during the absence of the City Manager.
Mrs. Gordon: Then in seconding the motion since this is a legal
procedure that must be taken, I would like to speak in behalf of 'this
motion and say simply that since it is true that we are working with a
majority Commission which is appointed, there is a great deal of logic
in appointing a permanent replacement in November, however, I feel very
strongly about the qualifications of Mr. Andrews for the post and I
would like the public records to so reflect. I second the motion.
7 JUL 2 61973
Rev. Gibson: I want to speak to the question. Mr.. Mayor and members
of the Commission. While there is no question in my mind about my
wanting Mr. Andrews, I stood on this Commission with some real questions,
real questions. I was born and reared in a Church after which this
government was patterned. Whether you know it or not, the Episcopal Church
gave to this country its form of government. We have all the tiers and
levels of government in our church that you have here.
With that in mind, with that kind of a background, I am disturbed every
time a crucial issue comes up, you raise the question about an appointed
Commission. When I vote, I vote as a Commissioner, I don't vote as an
Appointed Commissioner. This is a serious matter and I think that we
ought to get this settled once and for all. I resent, I resent being
referred to as the majority or appointive Commissioners. The history
reflects that the structure of the government is such that in order to
have continuity, you created a Charter and the Charter says" In the
Absence of you who sit here, have the right to appoint"
Now, let me go a step further. Are you telling me, are you telling me
and I hope you aren't because I want the public to know. Are you telling
me that should November come, listen to this very carefully, Reboso, Ferre
and Gibson are not elected. Are you telling me that the 3 of us right
now, I have been on here more than a year. Reboso has been here at least
a year this month. You have had previous experience on the Commission.
You have been a Legislator. You have presided as a Mayor.
Are you telling me that the composite experience of the 3 of us would
not exceed, supersede, outweigh and outnumber the experience of --
suppose the 3 of us are not elected. Would you tell me that 3 new men
will have more experience than Plummer, Rose, you Reboso, you Mr. Mayor
and myself? I question. Are we playing games, with the future of the
people of this City? We ought to really put it on the line.
Let me say another thing. Suppose, you know-the.3 of us must run
if we want these posts. Suppose from the newspaper, they tell me any
time you want to know anything, read the newspaper. Suppose Rose decides
ro run as Mayor, she must resign. Isn't that right Mr? Now listen to
this. If Rose :esigns then 4 new people are running, Plummer is the only
experienced somebody left on the Commission. Are you telling me that
Plummer has more sense than? This dealing is fantastic.
Let me go a step further because I am not going to let you off the hook,
no man, no, listen. All right, then you are saying that one experienced
man, Plummer, along with 4 inexperienced people because they can be 4
new people, 1 man and 4 new people, will have more experience, more judg-
ment, than all of us who have at least a years experience minimum and the
Mayor, the present Mayor, who has experience on the Commission 4years and
in the Legislature and now back here. I won't buy it.
One other thing. I think that we ought to handle the business of
the City like we handle our own business even if it hurts us sometimes.
When I was sworn in, the speech I made was this, that I was going to do
what I conceived was the very best for this City even if it was against
Theodore Gibson and I believe up to this time, I have kept faith with
that commitment. Now, I resent for all of you who are on this Commission
I resent youl.re referring to me as the majority appointed, thats #1.
#2: In order to have orderly process and sequential order in government,
that Charter makes the provision. That Charter makes the provision.
If you who appointed me didn't have any faith in me and if you didn't
trust me, why in the devil did you appoint me? Why did you?
I resent it. Not only that, you can't convince me that 2 people who
will remain on the Commission will have in a composite fashion more
sense wisdom than the 5 of us who are presently serving. The 4th thing
is: If Rose should run for the Mayor of the City which the paper implies
but was not positive, are you telling me that J. L. Plummer alone will
have more experience than the 5 of us including J. L. Plummer?
I won't buy it and I don't care who doesn't like it. I believe,
I believe as the song says that we ought to make a decision this morning
and stand up like St. Paul in his epistle said, Quit ye yourselves like
men. One danger, one danger, is it can well be a political issue in
the up and coming election. That I don't think we need or should have.
We need to be forthright with the people and that is the one thing I
like about Mr. Reese. We may not have always and he may have rubbed an
awful lot of people, but man in the year and some months I have been on
the Commission, I have never heard anybody say he was dishonest and you
know what? I would rather to have a good name of honesty and integrity
than to have all the other things that people might say about me.
They might say I have plenty of money. They may say I look well. I
dress well, talk well but I certainly would rather have them save all
those things, Gibson is honest, and can be depended upon and that does
8 JUL 2 61973
not mean I am saying that my fello Commissioners are not honest.
I am just saying, we are in a posi on right now to live and live
under constitutional government or e_don't want to live under it.
We want to pussyfoot and pass the bu
Mayor Ferre: Father Gibson, those are mighty strong words.
Rev. Gibson: Oh yeah, I know they might hang me but that is the
position I am going to take.
Mayor Ferre: They won't hang you but I think I would like to respond
because I think this is a matter of grave importance to the community
and let me first in my response state that I agree with some of the
premises.that you stated. First of all, there is no question, no
question that the Charter does not recognize within its structure,
a distinction between a First Class Commissioner and a Second Class
Commissioner, an Elected Commissioner and an Appointive Commissioner.
It talks about a Commissioner, A mayor, A Vice Mayor, it doesn't
distinguish whether he is appointed or elected so the legal aspect of
it is not in question. Secondly, I would also like to agree with you
in saying that compositely here in this Commission, these 5 people who
serve on it, certainly would have more experience on this City Commission
and with the City of Miami than anybody else who could be elected because
unless they were people who had previously served and so far nobody who
has previously served has stated that they want to run for the Commission
or for the Mayor's seat so I agree with both of those points.
Now let me give you the other side of it. First place, we in the
City of Miami are whether you like it, I like it or anybody else likes
it, continually on the defense. We are on the defense because there
are a series of people including newspapers and. television stations
and radio who continually editorially wish to eliminate the City of
Miami as a viable entity. That is a reality. We have had election after
election on that. We have had Police consolidation and Fire consolidation
and the people voted and proved their point. Furthermore the people of
Miami have time and time again, voted for bond issues where everybody
else throughout the country has voted against them showing that the
people of Miami want to continue the City of Miami.
Some of these people don't want to recognize that and we are
continually under barrage. Now that doesn't mean we aren't men and
women and persons of courage and strength, that we aren't going to stand
up for our convictions. We live in a world where everyday we read in
newspaper stories and television stories about Watergate. Here in
Miami, this City has been under question. We cannot deny the headlines
of the newspapers. We cannot deny the fact that the Grand Jury has been
involved in concessions in matters that directly or indirectly affect
the City of Miami. These are matters of consequence. They are matters
of reality. They are in the newspapers every single day and in a few
weeks there is going to be a trial that affects persons that are involved
and were involved with the City of Miami. We do not live under normal
circumstances. So, what I am saying is that even though legally, there
is no requirement for us to distinguish between elected and appointed
Commissioners, I think there is a moral, if you will, or if you will a
responsibility to this community so that there is no question, so that
there is no accusation that we are in any way playing politics or in
any way trying to perpetuate a situation which in any way might be
questioned. Now that doesn't mean that we don't have the courage of our
convictions. What it does mean is that we are trying to be practical
in our approach to the circumstances that we live in and I think theory
is fine and beautiful speeches are great and I think that courage and
conviction are fantastic but we live also in a world where we must be
pragmatic. I think we have to without comprising principle, accept
the reality of a situation that we live in.
Now that is the first circumstance. Secondly, I want you to
recognize as we all should, that should these 3 people here run or these
4 people, and should we not return, I want you to know that the Commission
that will be acting here in November will have the full right to appoint
anybody they want so it doesn't matter what we do today. On November
the 13th or the 7th or whatever day it is, this Commission meets, they
can reappoint or appoint any kind of a Manager that they want so all we
are doing, I think is again, I don't think its a realistic approach.
9
JUL 2 6197
Thirdly, as I stated publicly today. Mr. Paul Andrews is a man that
in my opinion is deserving of the recognition that he well merits after
12 years as Assistant City Manager. He has served his apprenticeship
with honor in the City of Miami. He has done a commendable job and I
want to publicly state something now which I have not up until now and
I think it is something that ought to be brought out in the open and to
the public because every once in awhile I hear criticism that Mr. Paul
Andrews might be a weak Manager because he served under Mr. Mel Reese
who was such a strong manager for 12 years and I want to tell you my
opinion on that because I considered that very seriously for awhile.
I think just the opposite is true. I have the highest regard for Mr.
Melvin Reese and his ability to administer this City and to run it.
If Mr. Reese accepted Paul Andrews for 12 years as his Assistant, then
Mr. Paul Andrews must be an absolutely honest man and have the capacity
or Mr. Mel Reese wouldn't have stood for it and with all due respects,
anybody that can take 12 years of Mr. Reese as manager has got to have
a certain amount of fortitude and strength and I don't mean that in
any way critical, but I think the point is abundantly clear. In my
personal opinion, I think that Mr. Paul Andrews has the strength, has
the conviction, has the ability and as I stated before. If we were
here meeting in November, I wouldn't have any hesitation offeringhis
name today as permanent manager. I think that if we as a Commission
appoint Mr. Andrews or anybody else as a permanent manager at this
time, we would be doing harm not only to the City but also to Mr. Andrews
should a future Commission take a different attack. I also think that
the elected Commission in November should have the freedom of choice
and I think in this way, they do have freedom of choice. If they
happen to disagree, and I think they have that right, if they wish to
go into a national canvass to find the most capable manager in their
opinion if there is nobody in this community to fit that role, I think
that it would do harm to the City to have the type of squabble that we
would have if we acted precipitously at this time and therfore, I stand
on my motion, that Mr. Andrews, as Assistant City Manager, remain in
that position and be authorized to act in behalf of the Manager while
there is a vacancy and until there is an appointment in November.
Rev. Gibson: Mr. Mayor, I don't want this to be a debate between you
and me because we didn't discuss. We you know but, I don't want you
to think, you see I make speeches for a living and I want you to know
that I am wise enough to weigh what I say. What I am saying is, all
right, lets go to the other extreme. Suppose in November, you elect a
new Commission and suppose 2 years after or a year after the election'
you have some vacancies. How would you get a City Manager? The people
that you appoint, those people have to go ahead and make a choice.
All I am trying to get you to see is and please understand, I do not
have any desire to cram down the throat of the citizens of Miami, that
which they do not want but I think based on what I know to be constitution
government that we ought to act and the people of the City of Miami
have acted right of along. Here is what they did. Each time that the
matter of getting rid of the City of Miami has come up, they have voted
and said, we want to stay and let me say this, Mr. Mayor, don't you
think we appoint Mr. Andrews in the manner in which you are suggesting
that you are going to get the newspapers and the television and the
radio people off your neck, my neck and off of our backs or running
up our legs. They are going to keep ontus, keep us honest and always
hold us up to public gaze and all I am saying is, I would not be
unhappy with your position. I waitt'the public to know that constitutional
government doesn't say what you say. If the President died in the morning
are you telling me that we aren't going to get another president because
the guy who is there, Mr. Agnew was elected as the Vice President?
We elected Mr. Agnew.
Mayor Ferre: Thats not the point. We didn't elect 3 of the 5 who
serve here.
Rev. Gibson: But here is the thing Mr. Mayor. All right, suppose
Mr. Agnew died and the president would die, then who will -
Mayor Ferre: An elected official would then take office which is the
speaker of the house and the constitution of the United States provides
that.
10
JUL 261973
111 1111•i••gilf1l I OYIIlI iUISI.11111• •.IIt!116u+fl1IYi.
i11111111111.■IIIIIIrUII 101111111111111111111
All right fine,
Rev. Gibson: I thought you would say that.
What does the Charter say Mr. City Attorney about appointive, is
there a differential?
Mr. Rothstein: It provides that the 'remaining members of the Commission
shall appoint new members of the Commission. There is no differentiation
between members of the Commission who are elected or appointed in the
charter.
Mrs. Gordon: Mr. Mayor, may I bring up a very valid point please?
The point in question here this morning, Reverend Gibson, is the wording
in the Charter. The Charter was amended in 1962 and when it was amended
the wording is rather subject to a varied interpretations. It says the
City Manager is appointed for an indefinite term and this does not specify
when the term ends. Customarily every 2nd year, the City Manager is
reappointed but this is only a formality. It is not a matter that has
to be taken up because when he is first appointed, he is appointed for
an indefinite period of time.
My suggestion is -
Mr. Rothstein: I am sorry I have to interrupt. The problem of the two
interpretations is because in an earlier provision of the Charter, it
provides that the new Commission shall appoint a City Manager after they
take office and the second provision provides that a Manager goes to an
indefinite term. The process that has been always followed in order to
make sure there is no question about the authority, is to reappoint -
Mrs. Gordon: May I finish my thought please? Its my thought that we
should defer this item for later in the day and that in the interim
period of time, our attorney draft what should be placed on the ballot
as a Charter Amendment to clear this ambiguity here and that we in the
meantime, make no appoint this morning and do it later in the day.
Mayor Ferre: Now Mrs. Gordon I am not going to go on that and I can
be voted down, that's fine but I think this is a matter that we, its
not 10:30 and we have talked about it. If anybody else wants to talk
about it, fine but I think we ought to bring it to a head and lay it
to rest. Now do you want to make charter changes?
Mrs. Gordon: Yes I do.
Mayor Ferre: That's fine, I have no problems on that but I think its
time for us to decide and get this behind us once and for all now until
November and then the Commission can act at that time. Now if that's
going to be voted down, fine, then we'll go on to the next matter.
I want to stick to my motion and bring it to a head.
Rev. Gibson: All right, any further discussion?
Mr. Plummer: Yes Sir, not speaking on the motion, but no one else has.
The voice of experience over in this corner should have taught me to
keep quiet and also Father Gibson you didn't preclude me from running
for Mayor, did you?
Rev. Gibson: No Sir, I would be delighted if the 5 of us were.
Then we would have a predicament.
Mr. Plummer: I just want to bring this thing because it has been bandied
around and I think it is wrong. The Charter does provide what this
Commission can do and what it cannot do. I think speaking for the silent
one over in this corner. Mr. City Attorney, so that this can be laid to
rest and I'm pretty good at that. Is there anything in the Charter that
specifies that a man who is appointed is acting, is interim, or is he
a Commissioner and is he Mayor?
Mr. Rothstein: He is a Commissioner and he is Mayor.
Mr. Plummer: Just as if he were elected?
Mr. Rothstein: Yes Sir.
Mr. Plummer: Fine, thank you.
Rev. Gibson: All right, any further discussion?
11
JUL 2 61973
•
Mayor Ferre: Yes, I want to make one more point. You know there are
important matters that are going to come up before this Commission
today and I am sure they will come up before the Commission between
now and November. In those matters that are ordinary if you will or
routine or matters that must be acted upon such as the budget, I cer-
tainly have no hesitation and no doubt that we should act as a
Commission. Those matters that are matters of great import, matters
for example' such as the transfer of property from the City to the
County, I think that it is within the best of American traditions and
within the best of democratic traditions that we do one of two things.
That we either submit it to the people of Miami for a vote to see if
they will or will not transfer property as one example or submit
ourselves to the will of the people on a vote and let the people decide
whether or not those of us'that seek public office are acceptable to
the people of Miami on the platforms they run on. Now, I made a
statement about Paul Andrews. I made a statement about the City Attorney's
position. We put that off until November and I am going to run on that
if I run. If I run, I am going to run on the positions that I have taken
and on my statement on Mr. Paul Andrews. That may be a campaign issue
and it may be a campaign issue in your case and in your case and there
is no question about any of this. The point and it has nothing to do
with newspaper editorials or television stations or radio stations.
There is no question that there has been enough clamor by the public
on this matter and we don't as I said before, these are not ordinary
circumstances. If we had not had the questions raised as we have in
this community about wire -tapping, about other forms of potential
illegalities. If we did not have legal cases before the court, if we
didn't have watergate, if we didn't have the type of questions throughout
our community and the country that we presently have, then I think we
would be into other circumstances. From a practical point of view, if
there were 1 us appointed, or even 2, but we have 3 appointments on
this Commission and it .is my sincere belief and opinion and those of
you who have seen me act for 3 years on the City Commission that I
certainly have no hesitation in taking stands on controversial matters
as I have done so in the past and will do so in the future but this is
a very serious matter that has deep implications and I really think we
have to be practical about it. We have to face the reality of the
situation and try to solve this to the best interest of the citizens
of Miami.
Mrs. Gordon: Mr. Mayor, once again, the reason you are taking and I
was taking this position was because of the wording of the charter was
what it was, not because you lack confidence nor do I in Mr. Andrews
and in his ability to do the job effectively. I want to withdraw my
second to the motion because I feel that after the discussion I have
heard, there is another avenue to take and I would prefer taking it.
Mayor Ferre: All right. I stand on my motion.
Rev. Gibson: Let me because I need to answer one thing you said.
We are putting this on the table. I want the public to realize this
and I want the newspapers to write this. I wait the radio and television
to make this comment in this regard.
If I don't like Mr. Andrews as my City Manager,after I am elected, I
could fire him for cause, isn't that right?
Mr. Rothstein: No Sir, the City Manager can be removed at any time
under the charter. It does not require cause.
Rev. Gibson: That's even worse. I want the people in this audience
and the newspapers to really pick this up.
After November, if I dorftlike Mr. Andrews, I could say, Brother Andrews
I don't like you so I get me a majority vote and he is gone.
Mayor Ferre: He has a right to request a hearing 90 days later.
Mr. Rothstein: But no cause is required. He could just have a hearing
but there is no cause that has to be shown.
Mayor Ferre: I recognize that but we have been through this in this
community before. We have a man here, Melvin Reese who can tell you
about how this disrupts and tears up a community and all I am saying
12
JUL 261973
•
I■ 111 ■Y!Y 1:iL111fiaR/wdl
is that I want to avoid that for this City whether or not I have
anything to do with it.
Rev. Gibson: Mr. Mayor, let me make my point. I am not arguing.
One thing about me. I don't hire attorneys if I don't listen to
them just like I don't go to the Doctor and not take his advice.
He said we don't have to have cause. Now lets go along with that, so
if I don't like Mr. Andrews if I appoint him now, I could fire.
We are going to be voting on some zoning matters, I want the little
man to hear this. We are going to be voting on some voting matters,
some variances that will affect the lives of people from now until,
and once we who sit on this Commission vote to give you that change
of zoning or that variance, you are stuck with it for the rest of your
life. Going to Court is not going to help you but in any one morning
,if I don't like Mr. Andrews and could get enough votes, I could change
that Andrews situation for you. Now I raise the question. Which is
more important? Or which affects the lives of people more?
Then I am going to hush.
Mr. Reboso: Yes Mr. Mayor, I agree with Commissioner Gordon that we
should delay this item until later in the day because I want to find
out legally if we can appoint a permanent City Manager.
Mayor Ferre: We can. He can give you an answer right now. We can
appoint a permanent City Manager.
Mr. Reboso: If that is the case, I don't think in my case, I don't
want to lose the opportunity to appoint Paul Andrews today because
I think after 12 years with Mr. Reese, he has the experience that
nobody else has.
Mrs. Gordon: I feel very much as you do Mr. Reboso, that the only
reason why I seconded the motion, as I specified before, was because
of the terminology in the Charter and I am going to ask that the
Charter Amendment be prepared for the ballot to clear the -
Mayor Ferre: Lets get this cleared right now.
Mrs. Gordon: All right, right now you have a motion without a second.
Rev. Gibson: Did you withdraw your second?
Mrs. Gordon: I certainly did.
Rev. Gibson: Mrs. Gordon has withdrawn her second.
Mayor Ferre: I want to repeat my motion.
Rev. Gibson: Fine. Wonderful.
Mayor Ferre: Lets get this st7aight now. My motion is as the City
Attorney read it and I want to state once again, that I think it is
important that we leave the final action of the appointment of the
Manager to an elected Commission in November. I have stated my opinion
about Mr. Paul Andrews and that stands on the record. I think it is
important at this time because of the reasons I have stated, we take
a firm stand and I make the motion as written by the City Attorney.
Rev. Gibson: Do I hear a second?
Mr. Plummer: Mr. Vice Mayor, I have listened to Mrs. Gordon and I
have listened to Mr. Reboso. I have no disagreement with them for
clarifying anything and if they want to put it to a vote to have a
charter change in November, I am all in accord, but I fail to see how
one ties to the other. If the Charter change is proffered for November
which I would be in favor for, for clarification, fine, but that's
November. We are faced with August 17th. Now very simply, we cannot
correlate one with the other. We have got to act now. We do not have
another meeting until September 13th and because of that, I will second
the Mayors motion to appoint Mr. Paul Andrews to this position from
August 18th until the permanent Manager is appointed. I fail to see
any .correlation between the two, so for that reason, we must act,
we must have a position between August 18th -and the permanent Manager
or between August 18th and when the voters clarify the charter change
so I second the motion.
13 JUL 26197
Rev. Gibson: Any discussion?
Mrs. Gordon: On discussion. Mr. Plummer, if the Charter change
were prepared and passed by the voters, the voters then would know
that the elected officials who are coming in, could replace Mr. Andrews
if he was not working effectiv61y.
Mayor Ferre: Why don't you make a motion then to change the -
if thats what is holding you back, why don't you -
Rev. Gibson: Lets -
Mrs. Gordon: I want to appoint Mr. Andrews now to the position.
That was my position and the only reason why I took the second to
your motion Mayor was because the Charter says that we cannot remove
the Manager because he is being appointed for an indefinite term and
I want to appoint him for a definite term up until November but I can't
because the Charter is written the way it is and it needs to be changed.
Rev. Gibson: Well you need to deal with 2 separate issues.
Mr. Plummer: Exactly.
Rev. Gibson: Do I hear any further discussion?
Mrs. Gordon: Repeat the motion.
Rev. Gibson: The motion is, Mr. City Attorney, read it as you have it Sir.
Mr. Rothstein: Pursuant to appropriate provisions of Section 15 of
the Charter of the City of Miami. Assistant City Manager, Paul W.
Andrews is hereby designated to act on behalf of the City of Miami
during the absence of the City Manager and until the absence is
terminated by the appointment of a City Manager. Said Paul W. Andrews
to perform such duties as may be required of him by the City Commission.
Rev. Gibson: All right, call the roll Sir.
Mr. Southern, City Clerk: Mr. Reboso?
Mr. Reboso: I vote no.
Mr. Southern: Mrs. Gordon?
Mrs. Gordon: I vote no.
Mr. Southern: Mr. Plummer?
Mr. Plummer: Excuse me I am trying to recall something. My v6te is
very definitely yes but as I recall, and I wish to bring to the attention
I think the record will reveal that this Commission on unanimous vote at'
the last Commission meeting was in whole hearted agreement that the
permanent Manager would be named after the election. Was that the vote
Mr. Clerk?
Mr. Southern: Yes.
Mr. Plummer: Okay, just wanted to recall.
Rev. Gibson: All right.
Mayor Ferre: We have to rescind.
Rev. Gibson: Wait a minute, wait a minute. Not at the time of voting.
Mayor Ferre: Would you clarify that legal question Mr. Attorney?
Mr. Rothstein: You have a motion on the fioor and you are in the middle
of a vote. If this motion fails, then the ether motion would have to
be rescinded and then if this Commission makes a determination they want
to appoint today, after rescinding the other resolution, they can, or to
postpone it to a special meeting or to do whatever they want.
14 JUL 2 61973
Rev. Gibson: All right.
Mr. Southern: Continuing roll call. Mayor Ferre?
Mayor Ferre: I vote yes with the motion.
Mr. Southern: And Reverend Gibson?
Rev. Gibson: I vote no.
Now Mr. Mayor, let me give you the gavel and I want to make a motion.
Mayor Ferre: Go ahead Father Gibson.
Rev. Gibson: Mr. Mayor and members of the Commission, I wish to offer
apronto the appoint of Mr. Andrews as the City Manager.
Mayor Ferre: Excuse me Father Gibson --
.Rev. Gibson: Yes Sir?
Mayor Ferre: I would like legal clarification. I think you have to
first rescind your - reversing the position that you took -
Rev. Gibson: All right, I move to rescind, that's simple, just give
me instruction.
Mayor Ferre: Ok, there is a motion to rescind the position that was
unanimously taken by this Commission at the last meeting.
Mr. Reboso: I second the motion.
Mayor Ferre: There is a second. Is there any further discussion?„ on,thg;
If not, call the roll, rescinding the previous motion that this Commission
took.
Mrs. Gordon: Would you repeat the motion that is being rescinded please.
Mayor Ferre: The motion at that time was that we were not going to
appoint a permanent manager but we were going to appoint a temporary
or provisional manager until November and this is a rescinding of that
motion.
Mrs. Gordon: But what we're doing, the motion you made Mr. Mayor was
not appointing an Interim Manager but just telling Mr. Andrews to just
work -
I am clarifying what we have done and what we want to do. We did not
do what that motion said, appoint him an Interim Manager. We were just
saying stay in your position and work.
Mayor Ferre: That's right.
Mrs. Gordon: And that isn't the same thing.
Mayor Ferre: The point is that we have on the record, a motion that
was passed unanimously that we were going to appoint an interim, that
we were not going to fill the permanent vacancy at this time and
appoint an interim acting manager.
Mrs. Gordon: Yes but that's not what -
Mayor Ferre: Now -
Mrs. Gordon: What I am saying is that we are not doing what the motion
that we passed 2 weeks ago said.
Mayor Ferre: The motion failed Rose, that's very clear so that's all
done and over with. Now we are talking about, somebody is going to
make a motion in a moment to appoint Mr. Andrews as permanent Manager,
not Acting anymore and that goes contrary to what we said last week and
all I am saying is, if you are going to do that, then you need a
rescinding of what we unanimously agreed to do last time because
obviously we are changing that position or some of us are.
Go ahead, there is a motion and a second. Is there any further discussio
on that motion?
15 JUL 261973
• •
Mrs. Gordon: May I ask. the Attorney a question?
Can this Commission appoint an Interim or Acting Manager?
Mr. Rothstein: No Mam, there is no provision in the Commission other
than by the procedure which -
Mrs. Gordon: Then why weren't we advised 2 weeks ago when we took
that motion that we are rescinding now?
Mr. Rothstein:Ma'am, for your information. The resolution as presented
by Mr. Ferre comes in with the terms of that resolution because the
intent of that resolution Ma'am, as I recall it vividly was not to
appoint a permanent City Manager at this meeting.
Mrs. Gordon: No but it was to appoint an Interim or Acting -
Mayor Ferre: No Ma'am. The City Attorney is very clear on that and
I made the motion and I am very clear on it. The intent was very
simple: That at this time, we did not want to take a position on the
Manager and it's just that simple. Now you can beat around the bush
and put all the words you want.
Mrs. Gordon: Mr. Clerk,will you repeat the motion that is being
rescinded please?
Mr. Southern: Mr. Gordon, we will have to get it, we don't have it
here. He is on his way to get it now.
Mayor Ferre: In the meantime while we are waiting, lets take up -
Reverend Williams is here.
Mr., Plummer: Mr. Mayor, I object. I would like to get this matter
settled without deviating from it. It's a vital thing and I don't want
my train of thought to be disrupted.
Mayor Ferre: I agree, go ahead.
Mr. Southern: All right, I have it here now.
We have designated this as Resolution No. 73-520 and it is -
A RESOLUTION GOING ON RECORD OF THE CITY COMMISSION THAT THEY
NOT APPOINT A CITY MANAGER AT THIS TIME, THAT AN ACTING CITY
MANAGER BE APPOINTED ON JULY 26, 1973 TO SERVE UNTIL AFTER
THE ELECTIONS TO BE HELD IN NOVEMBER, AFTER WHICH TIME THE
POSITION OF CITY MANAGER WILL BE FILLED BY THE THEN CITY
COMMISSION
Mrs. Gordon: And that was the unanimous vote. The word "Acting"
is the word that was in there that was the convincer as far as I was
concerned because in my opinion, he was not remaining in his current
position, he was being moved up into a temporary acting manager's
position and now, I am being told its illegal but I was not being told
it was illegal 2 weeks ago.
Mayor Ferre: Mrs. Gordon, what the City Attorney is telling you is
that he put the substance of that resolution in legal form. This is
the only legal way in which we can not appoint a Manager and yet have
someone with authority, acting as the Manager.
He put it in legal form. Now am I right or wrong on that?
Mrs. Gordon: I am objecting to zALe fact that we were not so informed
2 weeks ago. I am objecting to the fact that we are being told the
same information now, that we were not told then.
Mayor Ferre: I don't understand your objection.
Mrs. Gordon: My objection is very valid.
Mr. Rothstein: Mr. Mayor, may I say to the Commission. Acting on the
basis of that resolution, specifically on the basis of that resolution,
we have prepared the resolution for today which specifically provides
for Mr. Andrews to act on behalf of the City in the interim while you
do not appoint a permanent Manager.
Mrs. Gordon:
Mayor Ferre:
Acting on behalf, but not being the Acting Manager.
No Ma'am because the Charter does not provide-
. 1A
Mr. Rothstein: Because the Charter does not provide for any Acting
City Manager Ma'am.
Mayor Ferre: Its clear. The issue is very simple. Do you want to
appoint today a permanent manager or do you want to appoint someone
acting manager and have the manager selected after the Commission has
been all an elected Commission? It's that simple, that's what we are
voting on today.
Mrs. Gordon: All right, the point is there is a difference in the two
actions and therefore that changes my point of view.
Mayor Ferre: It doesn't. It's.absolutely no difference as the City
Attorney has absolutely, on three occasions today, clarified.
You are entitled to change your opinion, that's fine. Nobody objects
to that. If you want to change your opinion, fine. Go ahead.
Mr. Plummer: Mr. Mayor, aren't we really playing on words?
Mayor Ferre: Sure we are.
Mr. Plummer: I mean really -
Mrs. Gordon: There's a lot of difference -
Mr. Plummer: May I speak please? We are really making an hour of a play
on a word. It's very simple. Do you want Mr. Andrews to sit in the
capacity of running the City until a permanent manager which doesn't
preclude him is chosen in November or don't you? Now you can call it
interim, you can call it acting, but Mr. Andrews will be in authority.
In the same way, that when previous times Mr. Reese has gone out of
town on vacation, this Commission by resolution had to authorize Mr.
Andrews to act so I don't see where its any change except a play on words.
Mayor Ferre: It's almost 11 o'clock so the chair is now going to ask
for a vote on the motion andsecond to rescind the previous action.
Mr. Southern: Reverend Gibson?
Rev. Gibson: Yes.
Mr. Southern: Mrs.Gordon?
Mrs. Gordon: Yes.
Mr. Southern: Mr. Plummer?
Mr. Plummer: I haven't changed my mind. No.
Mr. Southern: Mr. Reboso?
Mr. Reboso: Yes.
Mr. Southern: Mayor Ferre?
Mayor Ferre: I vote no.
Thereupon the following resolution was introduced by Reverend Gibson
who moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 73-569
A RESOLUTION RESCINDING RESOLUTION NO. 73-520, PASSED
AND ADOPTED JULY 12, 1973, WHICH RESOLUTION PERTAINED
TO THE METHOD OF APPOINTING A CITY MANAGER FOR THE CITY
OF MIAMI
17 JUL 261973
• •
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here
and on file in the City Clerk's. Office)
Upon being seconded by Mr. Reboso, the resolution was passed and
adopted by the following vote - AYES: Messrs. Reboso, Gibson and
Mrs. Gordon. NOES: Mr. Plummer and Mayor Ferre.
Reverend Gibson: Mr. Mayor, I now offer Mr. Andrews as the
City Manager.
Mayor Ferre: There is a motion that Mr. Andrews be appointed City
Manager.
Mrs. Gordon: I second.
Mayor Ferre: Is there any further discussion? Call the i 11, please.
Mr. Southern: Mrs. Gordon ?
Mrs. Gordon: Yes.
Mr. Southern: Mr. Plummer?
Mr. Plummer: Just a moment. Mr. Mayor of Mr. Vice Mayor, the point
that I have made has now been established and I vc.:e yes for
Mr. Paul Andrews.
Mr. Southern: Mr. Reboso?
Mr. Reboso: Before I vote, I want to say that Reverend Gibson made a
very clear point thisi morning that we can't afford to lose the opportunity
of appointing Paul Andrews as City Manager and maybe we would lose that
opportunity in November so I will vote yes.
Mr. Southern:
Rev. Gibson:
Mr. Southern:
Reverend Gibson?
Yes.
And Mayor Ferre?
Mayor Ferre: Before I vote, I want to say that this question of whether
we are going to lose the opportunity or not lose the opportunity has
nothing to do with voting. If a person wants to run and doesn't have
the confidence that he is going to be elected again, then I don't think
that has anything to do with the position that we take today.
As far as the appointment of Mr. Paul Andrews on a permanent basis, I
think this Commission knew exactly what it was doing at the last
Commission Meeting. I think this is wrong, wrong, wrong.
I am against it. I was against it then. I am against it now. At is a
matter of deep principle. I do not think that an appointed Commission
has the right morally or should appoint a permanent Manager because it
should submit itself to the voters and let the voters decide whether
or not our positions are clear and at that point, as elected officials,
we can then appoint a Manager and my position remains constant.
I will not change my mind on a matter of inportant principle.
I have a high regard for Paul Andrews. If this were November and if I
were to run, and if I were to be elected, I would appoint Paul Andrews
but I do not think it is proper at this time for me to do so and I vote
No.
Rev. Gibson: Mr. Mayor, let me make this final comment and I hope this
will wrap it up.
If you appoint Paul Andrews as an Acting Manager as you said and you
didn't like him at the end of November, you could fire him.
We appoint him now and if we don't like him at the end of November, we
could fire him. Simple. So.as the boys in the ghetto say, we ain't
changing principles.' If you don't like him, you could fire him and you
don't even have to have cause and I am glad, Thank God, it's over and
let's move on.
The following resolution was introduced by Reverend Gibson who
moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 73-570
A RESOLUTION APPOINTING AND ELECTING PAUL W. ANDREWS
AS CITY MANAGER OF THE CITY OF MIAMI, FLORIDA, EFF-
ECTIVE AS OF 5:00 O'CLOCK P.M., AUGUST 17, 1973
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here and on file
in the City Clerk's Office)
Upon being seconded by Mrs. Gordon, the resolution was passed and
adopted by the following vote - AYES: Messrs. Plummer, Reboso, Mrs.
Gordon and Reverend Gibson. NOES: Mayor Ferre.
•
Mrs. Gordon: I must bring up the Charter Amendment which has to
go on the ballot and ask our Attorney to prepare an amendment to
this portion of the Charter as it deals with City Manager to clear
up the ambiguity that's in here and to specify a similar type wording
as is going to be included for the full time position of City Attorney.
I would hope you would have this for us, Mr. Rothstein before the day
is over so that we may take action on it.
Mr. Rothstein: Would you please pass a resolution to that effect.
Mrs. Gordon: I would so move.
Mayor Ferre: There is a motion on the floor to change
the charter. Is there a second on the motion.
Mr. Rothstein: The resoluti will be according to what Mrs. Gordon
said, shall be that upon ag ointment, the Manager shall serve at the
will of the Commission. Now that's the designation.
There is another provision in the charter which says that after every
election, the Commission shall appoint. So when you take out the
indefinite term, you will then leave terminology that he will serve at
the will of the Commission so that you have the two year appointment' but
he can be removed at the will of the Commission, the same as the City
Attorney.
Mrs. Gordon: Isn't that the same thing there is now? You just said so.
Mr. Rothstein: The same thing as the City Attorney.
Mayor Ferre: All right Mr. City Attorney, I'll tell you, I want to
speak to that motion.
Mr. Rothstein: Before you do, would you please pass a resolution
designating the time of the effective date of the appointment of Mr.
Andrews as of 5 O'Clock, August 17th when Mr. Reese's term ends so we
can have a continuity.
Rev. Gibson: I so move.
Mrs. Gordon: Second.
Mayor Ferre: On the question of continuity. There is a motion and
a second. Call the roll.
Mr. Southern: Mr. City Attorney, could we include that in the previous
resolution.
Mr. Rothstein: Yes you could but you will have to have the vote of the
Commission.
Mayor Ferre: Just call the roll on it.
Mr. Southern: Roll call. Mr. Plummer?
Mr. Plummer: Yes.
Mr. Southern: Mr. Reboso?
Mr. Reboso: Yes.
Mr. Southern: Reverend Gibson?
Rev. Gibson: Yes.
Mr. Southern: Mrs. Gordon?
Mrs. Gordon: Yes.
Mr. Southern: Mayor Ferre?
Mayor Ferre: I will vote yes on that one.
Now speaking to the previous motion. I want to make this point clear
and I am going to put Mr. Reese on the spot because I am going to ask
him to make his opinion of this matter heard.
20
• •
Mr. Reese went through one of the most difficult moments that anybody
had to live through in the City of Miami. He was without cause on the
sheer will and emotion of p ople that had no rhyme, reason or right,
threatened and actually removed from office and after that there was a
change in the Charter. The basis for that change was very wise.
The purpose of it was so that the City Manager whoever it was, would be
operating without the threat, without the pressure that would have
continued if we didn't change the Charter so that this motion now which
would reverse that, which would make the Manager serve at the will of
the Commission, is going to do nothing more than to make the City
Manager a man with fear because even the strongest man has got to have
a certain amount of fear. If 3 Commissioners can at any time, gang up
on him and on sheer emotion fire him and I want to speak strongly
against that motion.
Mrs. Gordon: Mr. Mayor, I would like to say this. I am not specifying
the wording that needs to be placed into this resolution.
I am simply saying that our City Attorney recognizes that there is a
problem in the wording of the Charter and that it does need to be cleared
up and I will ask that it be cleared up.
Mayor Ferre: Wait a minute. That's a different motion altogether.
Mr. Rothstein: Mrs. Gordon, you specifically made your motion and said
you wanted the same terminology as this Commission voted on for the
proposed Charter Amendment on the City Attorney.
Mrs. Gordon: Since you agreed that you thought that was the proper
wording for the City Attorney, that it might be the proper wording -
Mr. Rothstein: Ma'am I am not disagreeing with you.
Mayor Ferre: I disagree completely with.that.
Mr. Rothstein: I am not disagreeing with you Ma'am, I am only telling
the Commission what that Charter Amendment says so that the Commission
can know what they are voting on.
The Charter Amendment says "Serve at the will of the Commission"
You asked for that. I explained to them what it says, that's all.
Mrs. Gordon: Mr. Attorney, if I was an Attorney, I would be practicing
law. I am not an attorney. I am asking you to practice the law and you
prepare the proper amendment to the Charter that would clear up the
problems that we faced this morning because of the wording of the charter.
It's not clear.
Mayor Ferre: What is your intention Mrs. Gordon because that is what
needs to be clarified?
How, why, specifically? You can't just say clear the charter.
What are you talking about? You are talking in philosophy and let my
finish. You are talking as a matter of philosophy that you want to
change the charter so that the City Manager is subject to being
removed without cause at the will of the Commission, as a matter of
philosophy and principle, I am against it.
Now if you want to change something else, tell me what it is.
Mrs. Gordon: Mr. Attorney. You repeated a few moments ago that
Commissioners do not need any cause to remove the Manager. Now the
Mayor is under the assumption you need cause. Do you need cause or
don't you need cause?
Mr. Rothstein: You do not need cause.
Mrs. Gordon: Right and we're not asking you to change that right?
Mr. Rothstein: That's right.
Mayor Ferre: The City Manager serves under specific provisions.
If he is removed from office, he has the right to be told why, am I
wrong?
Mr. Rothstein: that's correct.
21 JUL 26197
• •
iY f I 1 }I ■11IaOniwmi I rammer iro
Mayor Ferre: He has the right to be heard in 90 days.
Mr. Rothstein: That's correct.
Mayor Ferre: He can petition for a public hearing and this Commission
has to have a public hearing before he is removed from office.
Mr. Rothstein: I think Mr. Mayor, what Mrs. Gordon is saying is that
instead of using the term "=_ndefinite" to substitute some terminology
"at the will of the Commission", but not eliminating all the provisions
for hearings. The City Manager and the City Attorney in my opinion are
2 different levels. I did say when you asked me about a charter change
wherein an attorney serves at the will of the Commission, a Commission
in my opinion should be able to change its attorney at its will without
heaings if it deems fit, if it loses confidence if it is a matter of
legal representation. I think what you are saying is that the Manager
is different because he is the administrative head and he has day to
day administrative decisions which run along whether he follows the
policy of the Commission and therefore what Mrs. Go n is saying does
not conflict with what you are saying. What she is ..y „!g is instead
of making it appear that the new Commission can't appoint a new
manager in November, make it clear that every new Commission can appoint
a new manager.
Mayor Ferre: I don't want to tamper with that one. Mr. Reese, I
want to hear your opinion, you get on the record now.
Mr. Reese: Well I would like first of all that Mr. Rothstein would
read into the record, the provision in the charter that sets up the
process of amending or did amend the charter in 1961 and what led to
this provision was in the charter, was in 1961, the City Commission for
reasons that nobody was ever able to rationalize or identify, stated
after a budget hearing, after the budget was adopted, that now I would
like to make a motion, we have lost faith in the City Manager and it
was nothing but a political motivated action and it was trying its best
to accomplish an action on the political podium which was the practice
of the City Commission over the years prior to 1961, the record will
reflect that they changed their Manager's oftener then they changed
their shirts and the theory of the City Manager government and its also
expressed in your own charter is that the Manager is the vehicle to
give continuity to your government. That is why you have your elections
every two years and you change your majority of your commission at that
time. Also this Charter Amendment was brought about by the people of
the City of Miami and if my memory serves me correctly, it was voted
on by the largest percentage of yes votes that any other action amending
the charter, was ever voted on. It brought in the largest number of yes
votes. There was no campaigning for it. There was no individuals
giving speeches or anything but it was just sound recognized public
administration and I think this City would go back, way way back if
you ever endeavor to modify it whereby you are going to appoint a
City Manager every 2 years because in order to get a City Manager that
you are going to be satisfied with, that's going to have the ability
and develop the confidence, you are going to have to then follow the
pattern that Pinellas County did of entering into a contract and that
is always a very questionable position when you put your administrator
in a contractual position and I plead with this City. There is no
conflict in this Charter. The provision is in there that the Manager
can be removed but this Commission or any future Commission has to give
reasons. That's all and then the Manager is entitled to a hearing.
Mrs. Gordon: Mr. Reese, the first -
Mr. Reese: May I conclude please because I was called upon and after
that, I will gladly answer questions. After the hearing, if again it
is not a rational decision of the elected officials, this gives the
Manager the vehicle of going into Court and getting the action and
consideration that he should be entitled to. Now, if you follow the
provisions that was in the charter previously, that every two years
the Manager at what the Mayor calls an organizational meeting, every
two years, at which time he appoints the City Attorney, the City Clerk,
they used to appoint the Municipal Judges and other people but when
they amended the charter, they then made it possible in that, that the
22 JUL 2 619
• a
City Manager doesn't necessarily have to be re -appointed every two
years but Judge Balaban, who was a City Commistio`her at that time
stated that, lets set this up and lets do it as a precedent so that
the new Commission is on record that they are accepting the manage-
ment or the administration of the City. That was the whole theory of
leaving the 2 year provision in there and nothing else and I plead
with you, don't change that your Manager is going to be exposed to a
City Commission sitting here, we have lost faith in you.
Mrs. Gordon: Mr. Reese, I wasn't saying that I didn't feel that Mr.
Andrews will fulfill this term that he has been appointed to with great
skill, I know he will. What I was referring to is the fact that in the
first 3 lines of the charte:, it said that the City Manager shall be
appointed 30 days after the'Commission takes office and in the next
portion it says, that he is appointed for an indefinite term. To me
that is 2 different things and I think you have to take one of them
out. You have got to take the first part out, you don't neea that.
because certainly anybody elected to public office is going to know
that the City Manager is a part of the structure and it doesn't have
to be reaffirmed by an appointment if the charter says he is already
there, whether they like it or not, he is there.
Mr. Rothstein: Mr. Mayor, with all due respect to Mr. Reese, I know
when Mr. Reese went through this, I imagine he had a very unfortunate
experience and I imagine his concepts that he has in his mind as to .
what he feels should be a circumstance of never to let that happen
again to a City Manager is fine, but that is not what the Charter says.
When this amendment to the charter was passed, they did not, did not
change 2 other provisions in the charter which provide that the new
City Commission shall appoint and elect a City Manager, City Attorney,
City Clerk. What Mr. Reese made as a statement that this was changed,
he made it out of his thoughts of what happens should perhaps be but
not what happened. There is no question in my mind legally that the
other two provisions are there and in effect and that is why Mrs. Gordon
is accurate when she says, it leads to some problem as to whether Mr
Andrews would have to be first removed or not.
Unfortunately Mr. Reese gave you further information that is not
legally accurate. He said that this Commission could not take a vote
that they lost confidence in the Manager. That is not accurate.
This particular provision provides only for one thing and one thing
alone. Notice to the Manager and reasons why he should be removed
and he can ask for a Hearing and one of those reasons would be 100%
valid, that they have lost confidence in the Manager because obviously
the Manager is the man who carries out the policies and of course if
there is a Manager who does not carry out the policy of the Commission,
they have to be able to remove him.
Mayor Ferre: Well then Mr. Rothstein, let the law stand as it is, in
my opinion because I think we have had a lot of controversy in this
community about strong mayor's and strong manager's and the manager
form of government. In my opinion, whether its a strong Mayor or a
strong Manager, we need strong administration and I do not want to
in any way tamper the strength of the manager form of government that
has been so successful for the City of Miami and I want to stand very
firmly on the law the way it exists today.
Mrs. Gordon: All right, I would like to move -
Mr. Reese: Mr. Mayor for a point of edification and I think the record
should reflect this. The language that was proposed on the ballot
was a resolution passed by the City Commission which was a direct quote
of the Model Cities Charter, this was the intent of this City Commission
and how the Law Department in those days drafted it and didn't correct
the other parts of the charter, is what is being discussed here now
and all I am sayingis that at that time, it was the intent of the City
Commission. Now again, I reiterate, that a Commission cannot take the
action like the Commission did in 1961 and that is to say, we lost
faith in the City Manager because that under any concept is not a reason.
It has to be expanded.
. 23 JUL 261
I.1.11110 101111111 I 111 ,111R00111.111IS 41111.1001
.1104 JIJ100101011011101101110 1111r1
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1
The Manager is entitled to know those reasons. I am not arguing the
law on it but there is logic and reason behind this.
Mrs. Gordon: I am not arguing it either Mr. Reese.
I am not arguing any of these points that any of you have brought up
except to clear the charter and I asked for a legal opinion and the
Attorney gave us a legal opinion and when we choose to take the advice
of our attorney, we take it and other times we want to totally disregard
it so at this time, I take his opinion as being a valid suggestion and
I move that we ask him to draft a proper charter amendment to clarify
the portion pertaining to the City Manager and that does not mean that
I want to remove the man that I have just voted confidence in. It
means I want it clarified so no future Commission would have any doubt
about what has to be done.
Mayor Ferre: We have a motion on the floor. Is there a second?
IS there a second? Is there a second to the motion to amend the charter
to put it on the ballot in November?
Rev. Gibson: Mr. Mayor, let me ask the City Attorney. Sir, recite again
what we are asked to vote on.
Mr. Rothstein: What Mrs. Gordon has asked for is a resolution directing
the City Attorney to prepare a resolution to be put, a charter amendment
to be put on the November ballot which in effect will do this.
It will provide that there is ✓an appointment & all of which r am about
to say, is in my opinion presently in existence, which will make it very
clear and the problem is there is a word used in here, "indefinite term"
to make it very clear that each new Commission appoints as it says in
the charter a City Manager, City Attorney, City Clerk etc. That the
City Manager does not have to be renewed every two years because each
new two years theoretically, there are new majorities. Perhaps a new
policy or a new theory of government. That as the present other
circumstances in the charter shall remain that in order to remove a
City Manager in the interim 2 years, in order to remove him, you must
give him notice of the reason that you are doing it and if he wants to
request a hearing, he can request a hearing, and a public hearing shall
have to be held.
Now the problem is where Mr. Reese and I disagree is, that to my mind
there is no question that it would be an appropriate reason for removing
a City Manager to simply tell him, that the City Commission has lost
faith and confidence in his ability to properly carry out the policies
of the Commission. He says he thinks there would have to be other
and greater cause.
There is no way to tell you the answer to that.
Rev. Gibson: Mr. Rothstein. I would rather, see that. I don't think
I would want to be serving at the will you know, I wouldn't want to be
serving on anybody's payroll and be fired without cause. This is
awfully dangerous. I think you ought to write it out and Mr. Mayor
tell me how I could get him to write it out, then I will read it.
I don't mind having it brought up later on.
Mr. Rothstein: Then you are going to have to tell me what you mean
by cause. The point it is -
Mayor Ferre: You are getting into deep waters now.
Mr. Rothstein: Very very deep waters because cause can be anything
from stealing money from the City or writing a letter on City Stationary
or whatever, or it can mean just what it says. If the Commission feels
they want a new man to run their government on a day to day basis because
they don't feel that the man who is running it is doing a good job.
Mayor Ferre: A11 right now, wait a moment -
Mr. Rothstein: This is deep, deep water andit takes a lot of
thought and discussion.
Mayor Ferre: The chair wants to take the prerogative of the chair to
make this simple statement:
We can hear a lot of words, legal arguments. The issue before us is
really very simple. The Charter Amendment that was passed overwhelmingly
by the people of Miami, the intent of it was very clear, the intent
24
JUL 2 619
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111110141. IIPIMP I In
Upl {Y I1 IPPNPI l•I1 J1E111111
was that the City Manager be in a strong position so that he could not
be pressured, harassed in any way or threatened of removal without
cause. Now it's very difficult legally to put in a charter what cause
is so therefore, it was written in the way it was written.
Mr. Reese has made his statement. I understand it. It's very simple.
I think it is very dangerous to tamper with that charter. I think that
we have a good system. I think that the Manager has worked effectively
under it. I want the new Manager to have all the strength and the
advantages that Mr. Reese had and I want to very strongly and emphatically
urge my Commission here, not to change the Charter.
Now we have talked about this enough. There is a motion cnthe floor.
Is there a second to the motion?
Mrs. Gordon: The maker of the motion has a desire to clarify the
motion Mr. Mayor.
Mayor Ferre: Clarify the motion Mrs. Gordon.
Mrs. Gordon: All right, for the reasons I am clarifying is that
Father Gibson said he wasn't clear on what I was asking for.
What I am asking for and I speak specifically to you Father because
you have asked the question. I am asking that the Attorney prepare
what he feels is legally proper for clarification, not for changing
the cause for removal, not for any other reason that the charter says
now, two separate and distinctly different things and only one of them
should be there and the one we don't want should be removed.
Now tltc; charter says that, we appoint for an indefinite period of time.
The charter says we appoint after each election of new Commissioners.
Those are distincly different things and one of them must be changed.
We need a clarification. I am only asking right now for him to prepare
a charter change. I am not voting on what he is preparing and when
he brings it to me, I may not like it, so I am only asking you to
support me in that, he prepare it and that we read it and if we like
it, we move it, if we don't, we won't.
Mayor Ferre: We have a motion. Is there a second to the motion?
Rev. Gibson: Mr. Mayor, I am going to second the motion so I could
get a draft, I want to make this clear, so I could get a draft and
when I read it, I shall always remember the late Bill Baggs. He asked
a lawyer to do something for him and he said you know, I can read and
write english. He was the editor of the Miami News if you didn't know.
I think I could read and write english so I would like the draft come
in and after the draft, I will deal with it.
Mayor Ferre: There is a motion and a second. Is there any further
discussion?
Mr. Reese: Mr. Mayor, I would like to make a suggestion that undoubt-
edly charter amendments come up at a point of discussion of something
of great importance and on the theory that there is conflicts within
this charter and I don't think anyone would dispute that. Why not
amend your motion for the City Attorney to bring forth all of the
conflicts in the charter and reconcile them?
Mrs. Gordon: That would be fine if he could get them all ready by
this afternoon.
Mr. Reese: Well I think every one of them is just as important.
You have conflicts in the charter on your budget. You have conflicts
on your election dates. You have conflicts all the way through it.
Mrs. Gordon: Fine, I wonder why we aren't told about this a couple
of months ago?
Mr. Rothstein: We are working for example on changes in the conflicts
with reference to elections but its so voluminous and so detailed,
its been two months -
Mrs. Gordon: I understand that and I am not blaming you.
Mayor Ferre: We have talked enough about this now.
I am going to call the roll.
25
• a
Call the roll, please.
Mr. Southern: Mr. Plummer?
Mr. Plummer: I vote yes.
Mr. Southern: Mr. Reboso?
Mr. Reboso: Yes.
Mr. Southern:' Reverend Gibson?
Rev. Gibson: Yes.
Mr. Southern: Mrs. Gordon?
Mrs. Gordon: Yes.
Mr. Southern: Mayor Ferre?
Mayor Ferre: I vote no for the very simple reason that we are tampering
with something which in my opinion is the pillar of the City of Miami.
The matter and I don't care what the clarification of the City Attorney
on supposed changes. I think that the situation as it exists strengthens
the Manager's post. I don't want to be tampering with it and therefore
I vote no on this motion.
The following resolution was introduced by Mrs. Gordon who
moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 73-571
A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING AND DIRECTING THE CITY ATT-
ORNEY TO PREPARE A PROPOSED CHARTER AMENDMENT FOR
ADOPTION BY THE COMMISSION LATER DURING THE MEETING
WHICH WILL CLARIFY THE AMBIGUITIES THEREIN WITH
REGARD TO THE APPOINTMENT OF THE CITY MANAGER
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here and on file
in the City Clerks Office)
Upon being seconded by Reverend Gibson, the resolution was passed
and adopted by the following vote - AYES: Messrs. Plummer, Reboso,
Mrs. Gordon and Reverend Gibson. NOES: Mayor Ferre.
Mr. Plummer: Mr. Mayor, a point of clarification and edification of
myself. We are not voting on that Sir. We are voting to ask the
City Attorney b prepare for us, a clarification. We are not in any
way voting to tamper with the charter.
Mrs. Gordon: You are so right.
Mr. Plummer: Mrs. Gordon, I do a pretty good job of expressing
myself or I thought I did. We are not in any way tampering. We are
asking the attorney to come forth in his opinion what is needed for
clarification. Then, if we wish to vote to tamper as you wish to use
the word, then that's a different story but I want it clarified that
we are not in any way, by this vote, indicating that we are going to
but merely exploring.
Mayor Ferre: I accept that clarification. Now one last matter on
the question of the Manager.
26 JUL 26 1973
• •
4I don't want it in any way to be understood that I do not have faith
in Paul Andrews and as is done many times in legislative matters,
a man takes a position, he votes on it and then after the vote is
recorded, and the majority rules, then as a show of confidence, the
vote is requested to be unanimous.
Now Mr. City Attorney. In the legislature, I know how that works.
I don't know how that works under our charter but as a matter of
courtesy to Mr. Paul Andrews, I would like to without changing my
previous vote, now cast, and request that a unanimous vote of con-
fidence by cast for Paul k idrews.
Mr. Rothstein: That can i;e cast as a separate resolution.
Mayor Ferre: I so wove for the record.
Mrs. Gordon: I so second.
Rev. Gibson: Any discussion? All right Sir, call the roll.
The following resolution was introduced by Mayor Ferre who moved
its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 73-572
A RESOLUTION EXPRESSING THE UNANIMOUS CONFIDENCE OF
THE CITY COMMISSION IN THE INTEGRITY AND ABILITY OF
PAUL W. ANDREWS AS CITY MANAGER OF THE CITY OF MIAMI
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here and on
file in the City Clerks Office)
Upon being seconded by Mrs. Gordon, the resolution was passed
and adopted by the following vote - AYES: Messrs. Plummer, Reboso,
Mrs. Gordon, Reverend Gibson and Mayor Ferre. NOES: None
9, D-ADLINE FORM A IFICATION OF C TY COMMISSION CANDIDATES -DISCUSSION
Mr. Plummer: I would like to ask a question of you Sir and since
I'm not running, I don't think anyone can accuse me.
I thought in the past, that it is always very very foolish, that the
deadline for qualifying is at 12 midnight. Is it need in the form of
a charter change or can this Commission do it by resolution, that in
fact the qualifying final time be 5 P.M. so that the Clerk and the
rest of the people don't have to sit here from 5 O'Clock in the
afternoon until midnight. I don't think there is any reason in the
world that they should have to sit here until midnight. If a mans is
going to run, he knows at 4:S9 as well as: he does at 11:59.
If a woman is going to run, that is the same thing.
Mayor Ferre: Is that a motion?
Mr. Plummer: I want to know if it should be in the motion or whether
it takes a charter change.
Mr. Rothstein: Here is the problem. Your charter provides for so many
days prior to the elections for the qualifications to close so that
means, a court interpretation days means to midnight of the day so the
answer to your question, it would require a charter change and this is
standard procedure with every filing in the County and State the same
way.
Mayor Ferre: Do you want to make a motion?
27 JUL 2 61973
R
Mr. Plummer: I will make a motion that at the same time the City
Attorney brings back Mrs. Gordon's motion, that he bring back a
clarification of that.
Mr. Reboso: Second.
The following resolution was introduced by Mr. Plummer who
moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 73-573
A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING AND DIRECTING THE CITY ATT-
ORNEY TO PREPARE A PROPOSED CHARTER AMENDMENT FOR
ADOPTION BY THE COMMISSION LATER DURING THE MEETING
WHICH WILL CHANGE THE DEADLINE FOR QUALIFICATION OF
CANDIDATES FOR THE OFFICE OF CITY COMMISSION FROM
12:00 O'CLOCK MIDNIGHT 45 DAYS PRIOR TO THE PRIMARY
ELECTION TO 5:00 O'CLOCK P.M.
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here and on file
in the City Clerks Office)
Upon being seconded by Mr. Reboso, the resolution was passed and
adopted by the following vote - AYES: Messrs. Plummer, Reboso, Mrs.
Gordon, Reverend Gibson and Mayor Ferre. NOES: None
10. PERSONAL APPEARANCE - LUCIUS WILLIAMS DOWNTOWN DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY
MAYOR FERRE announced the chair would recognize the presence
of Mr. Lucius Williams from the Downtown Development Authority for
a brief presentation.
Mr. Williams: Mr. Mayor and Commission. On previous occasions you
have considered the request of the developers of Flagler Center for
the use of the property at 46 West Flagier Street. At the last
Commission Meeting you determined that the property should ultimately
be turned into a public park. The request of the developer is that
they be permitted to demolish the building at their cost.
To clear the site of all rubble and to use this property for a period
of one year in return for the cost of the demolition of the property
and the removal from the site.
Mr. Acton and I have met with the developers and they have agreed
in addition to the removal, to cooperate with the planning of the park
site. To provide acceptable``surface to the building and Mr. Mayor at
your request, I have talked with the developers and they have indicated
a willingness to make available 1,000 sq.ft. of office space adjacent
for the municipal offices that are there presently and that could be
done for a period of 3 months.
Mayor Ferre: Now I think the proper way of doing this is for us to
take a stand on the Commission on the philosophy of it and then turn
it over to the Manager for specific resolution with Mr. Revitz and
the parties involved.
Is there a motion to that effect or does anybody want to discuss it
any further?
Mr. Reese: Mr. Mayor, I think that Mr. Revitz's offer is very con-
siderate of Mr. Revitz, but I think the city administration should
be afforded to get into this to discuss it and find out all of the
ramifications and I would also like to point out that the function of
the office downtown has been for walk-in business of people getting
permits, paying water bills etc., and second floor, t}:ird floor,
upstairs office space, is not really !suitable for the walk-in
business.
28 JUL 261973
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I think the City would have to explore all of these ramifications and
be in a position of then coming back here and recommending that we go
out and utilize space or that we use this space.
Mayor Ferre: The problem is one of timing Mr. Reese so let me, -
Mr. Reese: That is always a burden but I don't think the Downtown
Development Authority or the Planning Director of the City of Miami has
the prerogative to get the city administration in this position.
Mayor Ferre: Well let me make a motion and see if I can cover all
sides of this as well as I can. My motion is this Commission go on
record on philosophy of permitting Mr. Revitz and the corporation that
will be erecting this building, the use of the property adjacent to it,
provided that at their expense, they demolish the existing buildings,
clear the land #1. #2, make adequate space available for a period of
three months not to be over 1,000 sq.ft. for the use of the City to
house these people provided however, that this matter be referred to
the City Manager for his negotiations and leave upon his final discretion
the evolution and conclusion of this proposal.
Mr. Plummer: I second the motion.
Mr. Revitz: There is but one stumble block in that
and time is of the essence. This is all predicated that the premises
take occupancy within the next 5 days and that the premises they are
occupying at the present time be demolished.
Mayor Ferre: Mr. Revitz, we can't do that in 5 days. If it can be worked
out, I am offering a motion that we as a matter of philosophy go on
record that we want to comply with this as quickly as possible.
I don't think we could do that beyond the capacity of the City Manager
to try to•solve this problem and my experience with Mr. Reese is that
he is a tough man but once this Commission goes on record on a matter
of philosophy, I have never known that he has deviated from what we've
asked.
Mr. Plummer: Let's put the burden on Mr. Reese.
Mr. Reese will it take you 10 days Sir? You tell us what and that will
answer the marts questions.
Mr. Reese: I don't know all the ramifications connected with this.
I have not been in on any of the discussion.
Mr. Plummer: What I am saying is, under normal circumstances Sir, do
you think you could give the man an answer in 15 days, 10 days, 5 days.
Mr. Reese: We can give him an answer but he may not like to hear the
answer we will give. We'll give him the best answer we can and
endeavor to work it out as rapidly as possible. I would imagine by
the end of next week-
Mr.Wellington Rolle: Mr. Mayor, let me make one comment here. It seems
very strange that the public's business is being transacted in private
with the Downtown Development Authority and you are going around the
Manager. Now I am opposed to this kind of action. Now first of all if
you are talking about public properties and it is public property,
I think that the suggestion should have been made to the Manager in terms
of what you propose to do with it and then I think that this Commission
should have received the Manager's recommendation but I think it is
unfortunate at this particular time, you want to put the Manager on the
spot and say that you want to transact the public's business in a manner
that is acceptable to these gentlemen over here and I think that is
unfortunate.
Mayor Ferre: All right Mr. Rolle.
Mr. Williams: Mr. Mayor, I would like the record to reflect that we
were acting in accordance with the direction of this Commission.
Mayor Ferre: That is correct. It has been fully and publicly aired
on several occasions and discussed here so that previous statement was
completely and totally inaccurate.
29
JCS' 961973
• •
Mr. Reese: Mr. Mayor, I think the comments were made and I am quite
sure the gentleman was not informed on all the different ramifications
and facets of this..This Commission did take a positive action on this
that this should be used for a public park. That was the action of
this Commission but it didn't give Lucius Williams one bit of
prerogative to proceed to negoti'ite f.,r this.
This is my point.
Mayor Ferre: Mr. Reese, that may be well. All we are talking about
now is whether we as a matter of philosophy want to take advantage
of an offer which is being made by Mr. Revitz. Now the fact that he
went and talked to Mr. Lucius Williams in my opinion does not in any
way negate the fact that he has to come before this Commission to
discuss this with us and that it is our deliberations here in the public
that will finalize and determine this issue.
Mr. Reese: I agree with you. Mr. Revitz is here speaking for Mr. Revitz.
Mayor Ferre: That's right, we are talking to Mr. Revitz on a matter
that affects Mr. Revitz and his corporation and also affects the City
because he made a specific offer. Now all we are voting on here is
whether we accept or reject his offer and I am making a motion to
accept his offer subject to your finalization, that's it.
Mrs. Gordon: Have him repeat his offer please.
Rev. Gibson: All right.
Mrs. Gordon: Repeat your offer.
Mayor Ferre: We have a time problem, let me cut through all of this,
the offer was -
Mrs. Gordon: I want to hear it from him.
Mayor Ferre: The offer is very simple. He will remove the structure,
clear the land, and he wants the use of the property for a period of
one year or less to use in the construction of his building at which
time he will then leave us a cleared piece of property, saving us
$15,000 #1. #2 he will make available to the City of Miami, 1,000 Sq.Ft.
of property for a 3-month period so that we will then have time to find
suitable space for the functions that are now being performed in the
building. Since we have gone on record that this is going to be a
public park, a mini -park, and those functions will be removed I see
no conflict at all and all we are doing :.is saving the City $15,000.
Mrs. Gordon: There is a point to consider though Mr. Mayor in all of
this and that is the moving of the personnel and equipment that is in
the building to a temporary location and then a re -location and that
all costs money and I am not so sure that it won't offset the amount
of money that we are supposedly saving by the demolition of the building.
These things are not clear in my mind and further than that, if the offer
said that they could stay longer than the 90 days, or what happens if
we don't have a place for our employees and our -
Mayor Ferre: They have got to be moved anyway.
Mrs. Gordon:. and our departments in 90._days, what if we don't have it?
We certainly couldn't move them in here. We don't have enough room in
here even for another chair upstairs.
Mayor Ferre: Mrs. Gordon, didn't you go on record saying you wanted
a park there?
Mrs. Gordon: I want the park but one thing doesn't seem to me to be
dependent upon the other. I very much favor a park. I am for a
park and I want parks to be developed downtown as well in other areas
of the City but there is more to it than just this.
Mayor Ferre: We are running out of time. There is a motion on the floor.
Rev. Gibson: All right, is there any further discussion, call the roll
Sir.
30 JUL 261973
•
g 11.1 I API MI •
Mayor Ferre: The motion is very clear. The motion is that we accept
Mr. Revitz's offer and that it be referred to Mr. Reese to work out
the details if he can. If he can't, then it won't get done and my
apologies to Mr. Revitz. I think its a good idea. Mr. Reese has full
authority to negotiate this thing with Mr. Revitz. He knows what the
philosophy of this Commission is.
Mrs. Gordon: I have a very pointed question to Mr. Williams and to
Mr. Revitz.
In the event we don't have other quarters in 90 days, can our personnel
stay there until we have other quarters?
Mr. Revitz: Absolutely, at the going rate.
Mrs. Gordon: Pardon me?
Mr. Revitz: Absolutely, at the going rate, in the downtown area.
Mr. Plummer: Mrs. Gordon, this is why we are turning it over to the
Manager to negotiate. Lets let the Manager do it.
Mrs. Gordon: Including 90 days.
Mayor Ferre: The motion includes 90 days. It's in the hands of the
Manager. If he can't work it out, then there is nothing we can do
about it.
Rev. Gibson: Call the roll.
Mr.Southern: Mrs. Gordon?
Mrs. Gordon: Yes but we are directing the Manager. We are not leaving
anything much to him except to do it. Go ahead and do it, we want it
done and we want it done in such a time, not 5 days, maybe 10 days but
we want it done.
Mayor Ferre: I didn't specify time in the motion. Its up to the Manager
to work out the details if he can. If he can't, then its prerogative
that the thing is a dead issue.
Mrs. Gordon: If the motion is more than just a direction to him to go
ahead and work it out, if its truly what you say it is, and that if he
says, I can't work it out, that's the end of it, I will vote with the
motion.
Mr. Southern: Mr. Plummer?
Mr. Plummer: Yes.
Mr. Southern: Mr. Reboso?
Mr. Reboso: Yes.
Mr. Southern: Mayor Ferre?
Mayor Ferre: I vote yes.
Mr. Southern: Vice Mayor Gibson?
Vice Mayor Gibson: Yes
thereupon the following resolution was introduced by Mayor Ferre
who moved its adoption:
31 JUL 261973
• •
RESOLUTION NO. 73-574
A RESOLUTION ACCEPTING IN PRINCIPLE THE OFFER OF THE
DEVELOPERS OF PROPERTY -IMMEDIATELY TO THE EAST OF CITY
OWNED PROPERTY KNOWN AS_46 WEST FLAGLER STREET TO DEMOLISH
THE EXISTING BUILDING AT 46 WEST FLAGLER STREET
'AT THEIR EXPENSE AND CLEAR THE SITE IN RET-
URN FOR THE USE OF SAID SITE FOR A PERIOD OF ONE
YEAR; AND CONDITIONED UPON SAID DEVELOPERS MAKING
AVAILABLE WITHOUT CHARGE OFFICE ACCOMODATIONS NOT
TO EXCEED 1,000 SQUARE FEET FOR CITY EMPLOYEES FOR
A PERIOD OF THREE MONTHS TO ACCOMMODATE THE ACTIV-
ITIES OF THE EMPLOYEES PRESENTLY OCCUPYING THE
BUILDING KNOWN AS 46 WEST FLAGLER STREET; AND RE-
FERRING THIS MATTER TO THE CITY MANAGER FOR NEGOT-
IATION OF A CONTRACT, AND LEAVING THE EVOLUTION AND
FINAL CONCLUSION OF SUCH A CONTRACT TO THE DISCRETION
OF THE CITY MANAGER
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here and on file
in the City Clerks Office)
Upon being seconded by Mr. Plummer, the resolution was passed
and adopted by the following vote - AYES: Messrs. Plummer, Reboso,
Mrs. Gordon, Reverend Gibson and Mayor Ferre. NOES: None
11, PERSONAL APPEARANCE - REVEREND WILLIAMS REGARDING APPOINTMENT TO
MODEL CITIES BOARD
Rev. Williams: Mr. Mayor, I was appointed to serve for the City of
Miami on the administration board of Model Cities 2 years ago.
My term expires and we have contacted Mr. Reese's office and he said
that I would have to come back here to get reappointed and I would
like very much to be reappointed._
I am sorry that I didn't get on the agenda but this was the only way
that I thought I could do it.
Mrs. Gordon: May I ask a question of information. I am not knowledgable
about appointments to the board and all this and certainly I would like
to know more about what we are doing. Eunice Liberty, you are here on
this same matter. Both of you, I consider friends of mine. I hope you
are not in competition with each other.
Rev. Williams: Not at all.
Mrs. Gordon: All right then, you are both open for re -appointment?
I would so move you both be appointed.
Mayor Ferre: There is a motion for reappointment. Is there a second
to the motion. Mrs. Eunice Liberty and Reverend P. W. Williams are
being moved now for reappointment.
Mrs. Gordon: Mrs. Liberty would like to speak to this and I would
like to hear her.
Mayor Ferre: Go ahead Mrs. Liberty.
Mrs. Eunice Liberty: I am very much surprised this morning to know
there is two of us. I understood there was only one of us. For the
last past year, the record so reads that I represent the City of Miami
on the Board. Now if there are two of us, I should have been told.
32 JUL 2 61973
• •
I had a letter, a conflict where Rev. Williams name had been called
first and I had a letter also tell me that I was the person to be
represented by the City and on every Board meeting that I have ever
gone on, I have represented the City of Miami on Model Cities.
I came to Model Cities in 68 before the money came in on housing so
I am very much interested in model cities. I am very surprised this
morning to know two of us were doing the same thing.
Mr. Plummer: I would like to move at this time Mr. Mayor that this
matter be deferred until the September 13th agenda, the one thing
that I don't want this Commission to be criticizes' for is to say that
we didsomething without public knowledge which we have and I don't
like it so I think what we can do is defer it until the September 13th
meeting and put it on the agenda as a regular item and ask for a
clarification from the City Clerk and City Attorney to be presented
at that meeting.
Mrs. Gordon: I'll second that.
Mayor Ferre: Call the roll on deferral.
The following resolution was introduced by Mr. Plummer who moved
its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 73-575
A RESOLUTION TO DEFER UNTIL THE MEETING TO BE HELD ON
SEPTEMBER 13, 1973, THE QUESTION OF RE -APPOINTMENTS TO
THE MODEL CITIES BOARD PENDING CLARIFICATION OF THE
MATTER BY THE CITY CLERK AND THE CITY ATTORNEY
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here and on file
in the City Clerks Office)
Upon being seconded by Mrs. Gordon, the resolution was passed and
adopted by the following vote - AYES: Messrs. Plummer, Reboso, Mrs.
Gordon, Reverend Gibson and Mayor Ferre. NOES: None
Rev. Williams: My statement is this. I am certain that I was first
appointed by the City to serve the City.
Mayor Ferre: Reverend excuse me for interrupting you. We are 23
hours late. You will be heardcappropriately in September and I will
give you all the time you need then.
Mr. Reese will look into it and come back to us. It will be actually
Mr. Andrews.
12, EXPRESS CONMI FNCFS TO FAMILY_ OF_CAPTAIIi EDDI_F RICKFNRACKFR
The following resolution was introduced by Mr. Plummer who
moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION 73-576
A RESOLUTION HONORING CAPTAIN EDDIE RICKENBACKER
AND EXPRESSING SYMPATHY AND CONDOLENCES TO HIS
FAMILY
1
9
33
JUL 261973
•
1 i ... IMI lit i
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here and
on file in the City Clerks Office)
Upon being seconded by Reverend Gibson, the resolution was
passed and adopted by the following vote - AYES: Messrs. Plummer,
Reboso, Mrs. Gordon, Reverend Gibson and Mayor Ferre. NOES: None
..
13, VARIANCE- LOTS 2 THRU 19., TRACT 19A BLK 21. WADDELLS ADD.REPLAT
The following resolution was introduced by Reverend Gibson
who moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 73-577
A RESOLUTION REFERRING BACK TO THE PLANNING DEPARTMENT
THE APPLICATION OF NATIONAL FREEZERS, INC., FOR VARIANCE
TO PERMIT CONSTRUCTION OF COLD STORAGE PLANT ON LOTS 2
THRU 19, AND TRACT 19A, BLOCK 21, WADELL'S ADDITION
REPLAT, LOCATED AT APPROXIMATELY 1849 N. W. MIAMI COURT
WAIVING 29 OF 93 REQUIRED OFF-STREET PARKING SPACES,
SITE ZONED I-1
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here and on file
in the City Clerks Office)
Upon being seconded by Mrs. Gordon, the resolution was passed
and adopted by the following vote - AYES: Messrs. Plummer, Reboso,
Mrs. Gordon, Reverend Gibson and Mayor Ferre. NOES: None
Attorney for the Applicant appeared and requested this deferral.
14, ORDINANCE MAKING APPROPRIATIONS - OFF-STREET PARKING BUDGET
The Chair recognized the presence of Mr. Arthur H. Brawn,
Assistant Off -Street Parking Director.
Mayor Ferre: Lets cut through this. I have read your proposed budget
and I don't see any sources of income in there. Do you have those
available for us today?
Mr. Brawn: Yes Sir, I have them here, whatever you need.
Mayor Ferre: They have not been submitted to this Commission and
because of that I would like to see this item deferred until this
afternoon to give us an opportunity at lunch time to look over the
re -submitted proposed budget which we have not, up until this time,
seen. If you will make this available to all the members of the
Commission and come back here, we will take it up after lunch.
Mr. Brawn: All right Sir.
15, PERSOLAL APPEARANCE - GLUCK PRESIDENT OF THE MIAMI COIN CLUB
Mr. Gluck: I am the President of the Miami Coin Club, and our national
association in April, had National Coin Week and the City presented us
with a proclamation and I would now like to present the City with a
Certificate of Appreciation, that's all. For Mrs. Gordon, who signed it.
Mayor Ferre: All right, give it to Mrs. Gordon in the name of the
City.
Thank you very much we are very grateful and appreciate it.
34 JUL 26197
•
DEFERRED ITEMS
AO Objections to confirming ordering resolution 73-193 for
8 N.W. 29th Street HIGHWAY IMPROVEMENT H-4361
Due to an objection of a property owner in the area
the Commission agreed to defer Item 8 to September
13, 1973 and instructed Mr. Vincent Grimm, Director
of Public Works to meet with these objectors
AG
1U Ordinance changing zoning classification S. 50' LOTS 1 $ 2,
Block 60S MIAMI B-41 818 S. W. 45th Avenue
The City Manager announced the applicant had an emergency
in his family and asked that this item be deferred until
September 13, 1973, to which the Commission agreed.
16, PUBLIC HEARING - MAYOR'S COMMITTEE ON PARKS AND RECREATION
RECOMMENDAT LONS FOR THE TRANSFER OF PARKS AND RECREATION
Mayor Ferre: Now Mr. Walter Etling, with our apologies, the chair
recognizes you.
Mr. Etling: Thank you Mr. Mayor. As you mentioned, we had an opportunity
to give this report at a previous meeting but I will go over it again.
The background of our report is that at a regular City Commission Meeting,
the Mayor of Miami, supported by the Commissioners, authorized a committee
to "Study the feasibility of turning over the operation and responsibility
for the City of Miami Parks and Recreation Department and all the City Park_
and Recreation areas including the Orange Bowl to the Metropolitan Govern-
ment of Dade County".
Subsequently at a regular City Commission meeting, the Mayor again
supported by a resolution of the Commissioners asked the committee to
consider an additional charge, the study of Manager Reese's new Orange
Bowl improvements program. The members of the committee are:
Walter Etling, Chairman
Mrs. Penny Angleton
Carlos Arboleya
Bill Colson
William Fields
Martin Fine
Ray Goode
Senator Bob Graham
Melvin Reese
Harper Sibley
Dr. Henry King Stanford
William Wynn
J. L. Plummer
Mr. Lester Freeman
There were 5 regular meetings of the committee and several sub-
committee meetings. Representatives of the University of Miami
The Miami Dolphins
The Orange Bowl Committee
Dade Co.Board of Public
Instruction
Miami Toros
all were in attendance and made statements to one or more of the meetings
of the committee.
35
'JUL 261973
• •
In addition, the committee studied various papers, publications and
research reports as indicated by the attached bibliography. There
is a bibliography attached to our report of 9 studies that we looked
into before making our recommendation. An inventory of the facilities
in existence and planned under various bond issues was prepared and
discussed. The basic recommendations of the committee were as follows:
(a) That the City Commission should by resolution request
the County Commission to:
1. Instruct the County Manager to begin immediate
negotiations with the City Manager and with all
other municipalities as they express interest who
own and operate parks, golf courses, recreation
facilities and structured leisure time facilities
for the transfer of all operations, maintenance,
supervision and planning to Metropolitan Dade County
the report also suggested that until such time as a public referendum
county -wide be placed on the ballot, all of these facilities would
remain the property of the present municipal owners.
In the case of debt, authorized, but not yet expended, the appropriate
municipal governing body or its designee would have final approvals of
any planning relative to the expenditures of the money.
(b) To authorize a public referendum to allow County citizens
to vote to assume all the general obligations and thusly
the ownership of the properties.
In addition, our committee recommended that the City Commission should
instruct the City Manager with regard to the Orange Bowl. Do you want
me to go into this? Mr. MAYOR, do you think it is appropriate to make
that part of the report at this time?
Why don't I go forward and move into some of the rationale of our
report leaving out the part of the renovation of the Orange Bowl Stadium
as I understand the Commission has already taken some action and if that
is a matter of fact, the Orange Bowl will be under the operation of the
County and will go forward.
The rationale on which our committee made this recommendation is as
follows: That separate park administrations make a uniform policy for
park development and long term planning most difficult.
The very nature of park recreation facilities, that is open areas, easy
access, make it imperative that they be considered, regional facilities.
This reasoning we felt, couldn't be limited only to the City and that is
why we didn't feel it was right to single out the City for transfer.
We don't hold out necessarily that net savings to taxpayers was
a valid reason for making the transfer in that no real money would be
saved. Not only everything would remain in action, but would,.be expanded.
It would just be a broadening of the tax base.
In concept, the committee felt that the regional facilities serving
all the people in Dade County should ultimately be paid for by all of
the people of the County. While it might be argued that certain tot -lots
are not regional, we feel as a practical matter, once a decision is made,
then the County Umbrella would best serve all the people.
These recommendations we feel, afford Metropolitan Dade County the
opportunity to further develop a Metropolitan Park, Recreational system
for the entire county by long range and master planning based on consid-
eration of such natural factors as air, light, water, population trends,
social and cultural needs. Such master planning and sound management
could be done only for an area large enough to include all the essential
natural factors by control of the whole area.
Let me say as far as the City of Miami taxpayers are concerned
that the far-sighted taxpayers of the City of Miami approved in March
of 1972, a "Parks for People" bond issue of close to 40 million dollars.
These recommendations in the opinion of the committee serve to strengthen
the implementation and benefits to these taxpayers.
The citizens under this recommendation would retain ownership until
they were relieved of their debt. They would retain rights to planning,
decisions with their elected officials. They would receive the resources
of the County to improve the plans if they enhance the projects, they
would receive the combined resources for servicing and programming of
the completed facilities.
36 JUL 26197
• •
The County taxpayer is being asked to share universally in the
cost of operating, maintaining and servicing facilities which many
of them have been using daily. I suppose the best picture of the
impact is simple. The City of Miami taxpayer is relieved of 1.8 mill
expense at a cost of 0.3 mills.
The County taxpayer is levied an additional 0.3 mills for his or
her share of the facilities they' may have been using. In our opinion
we all achieve a better overall system for leisure use.
I will skip through the Orange Bowl recommendations other than to
say that the committee felt strongly that work should move forward
with Orange Bowl physical planning and input from all user tenants.
The networks and the fans themselves should be made an integral part
of any Orange Bowl planning.
As far as the City personnel are concerned. The committee under-
stands and reiterates that under the Metro Charter, transferred
employees affected by these recommendations obtain their full rights.
Were it not so, our recommendations would be different. As I understand
it, should this transfer be implemented, everyone who is now working in
the recreation department of the City as in the Sewer Department and
other transfers would retain their rights and salaries etc.
In conclusion, we don't have to search far to find success stories
in this type of centralization using a contract for services approach.
The county library system is a fine example. The Metro -Miami Water and
Sewer Authority is another one. Our recommendations look to the future
with no critical eye on the past.
The facts are that the city and county citizens have access to
some of the finest facilities for leisure activities in the world.
As we want to improve ourselves, we as a committee simply suggest that
we combine good systems into one overall finer system for all of our
people.
I might note that we had many hours of discussion on this. We
met as a member of our committee, Mr. Plummer will attest, many times
and everybody wasn't in total agreement but I think we came to a
recommendation and conclusion that the vast majority of our committee
believed it is for the overall good of the citizens of the City of
Miami and Dade County.
Thank you Mr. Mayor, I will be delighted co answer any questions
or respond.
Mrs. Gordon: 1 have a very important question.
Mr. Plummer: Mrs. Gordon, may I interject just one short note for
the record please.
I would like the record to reflect that both myself and Mr. Reese
basically only entered into discussion in the committee meetings as
it related to the Orange Bowl. Not in the Parks transfer. We answered
any questions that we could but our basic discussion was relating to the
Orange Bowl.
Mrs. Gordon: I have a question and its the kind of a question that
nagged at me and I am sure at many citizens of the City of Miami.
Maybe because and I respect you Mr. Etling because I have known you
for many years and I really do appreciate the work you have done for
the City in chairing this very important committee but in your delib-
erations, have you considered or has the committee considered what
benefit do the citizens of the City of Miami receive from the Bond
Issue for Parks which was passed by the County?
Why doesn't the County take some of those funds and give them
back to the City to he used in the development and redevelopment of
some of the parks within the City limits?
This is something I cannot comprehend.
Mr. Etling: Well I think that, I really -
Mrs. Gordon: Can you tell me because you worked with a group of
people and I thought maybe the question was raised there,
Mr. Etling: If I can make one kind of overall statement about our
committee and its deliberations.
The citizens of Miami are paying for the new zoo and they can
enjoy it. The citizens of Miami help to pay for Matheson Hammock
and Crandon Park and other county facilities and enjoy it. Let me
37
say as far as I am concerned, personally, philosphically. I think
that the overriding =philosophy of this committee was that and
without this basic reason, I don't think there is much validity to
our report and the basic reason is, in our opinion at any rate, such
things as Orange Bowl Stadium, Marine Stadium, Miami Stadium, Miami
Springs Golf Course, Le Jeune Road Golf Courses are things that
benefit all the people of Dade County. They are really regional in
nature and should be paid for by all the people of Dade County
ultimately and I think that the citizens of Miami for example shouldn't
bear the whole burden of providing services necessarily to the County.
That's why we are for the ultimate turnover.
First step - turn over the operations.
Second Step - turn over the debt if the people want to assume.
Mrs. Gordon: Well Walter, you are saying what I am saying. You are
saying the whole County to pay for it and I am saying the whole
County should pay for it but that doesn't mean the operation has to
be transferred.
Certainly, the County should contribute to some of that operation
because the citizens of Dade County are using it but why does that
mean that we have to turn over the operation?
Try to answer that if you can to me?
Mr. Etling: Well I think if the City determines to turnover. In the
first place,-I'hate to be put in the position of an advocate of this
but I was basically the Chairman, getting together everybody's ideas
and this is what we came up with.
Mrs. Gordon: We recognize that and we are not trying to put you on
the spot.
Mr. Etling: Let me say that the reasoning therefore was tha. ;j
operations of these city facilities cost the taxpayers 'of the City of
Miami or out of the taxpayers budget, 1.8 mills. $1,350,000 of money
is spent by the citizens of Miami to operate their Parks and Recreation
programs. This total program, everything that is involved. 90 some
parks etc. I am saying that in concept the citizens of Miami shouldn't
be forced to pay for that. We would dollar wise, spread the base of
that million, three or four around to everybody who is going to enjoy
it and the 1.8 mills probably won't result in a tax saving perse to the
citizens of Miami because I am certain that whoever is sitting here in
November will figure out a way to spend the 1.8 mills for something.
I am just saying that as far as Parks and Recreation is concerned, its
our opinion that there is plenty of input that could be put into the
Parks and Recreation Department of the City of Miami if the County
were involved. Maybe their staff etc. would not only help their
programs but the citizens of Miami's programs in every respect.
Mrs. Gordon: Walter, what I am saying is the emphasis is being put on
tax savings and that should not be the emphasis because we are not just
really dealing with that because we should have a tax saving in the
City of Miami and we really should have a contribution towards it from
the County and the County should be paying for the upkeep and the
maintenance and the operations but the operations should - it belongs
to the City. The City had the foresight to implement these things.
Why should the City give it up? and say here, you take it, and you
operate it.
Give us something to operate it with and we will operate it.
Mr. Etling: Well the whole Metro theory is, if its valid and most
citizens I think, think it is because they voted many times for the
concept of metropolitan government and if the City of Miami shouldn't
be in the library so therefore they let all the citizens be in the
library business, that's an example of the theory. I don't really mean
to debate it with you, I just have given you our report, the reasons
for it.
Rev. Gibson: Mr. Chairman, this is not a question. I know what
it is to be a chairman of a thing like this and really have to -
I am saying this for the benefit of the people. Hopefully the people
may write it.
I don't mind if they take the operation if they also take the
debts and all the other things. This really disturbs me about the
way we just do some of these things.
38
• •
Mayor Ferre: Let me speak to that point Father Gibson. I have a
memorandum here that is important to be read into the record:
IT is dated July 25, 1973.
CITY OF MIAMI. FLORIDA
INTER•OFFICE MEMORANDUM
trot
FROM
Hon. Maurice A. Ferre
Mayor
•
DATE,
•uuccT,
July 25, 1973
FILE,
Opinion: Parks & Recreation
Department - Bond Issue
REVER ENCEtt
ENCLOSURES e
I am attaching herewith a copy of a letter received from the bond
counsel which deals with the question of the transfer of the parks
to Metropolitan Dade County. You will note that the bond counsel
does not find authorization without a vote of the people as is set
forth below:
"After researching the Constitution of Florida,
the Charter of the City of Miami and the Home
Rule Charter of Dade County Florida, the under-
signed is of the opinion that Dade County doeL,
not ha"Q t e_ N is t e R4vrnent of
mms
the foregoing and issue nor the power to levy
ad valorem taxation for payment of the debt
service on the bonds except after approval by a
majority vote of the electors of Dade County.
Certain sections of the Dade County Home Rule
Charter and the Constitution of Florida would
......,..ate
seem to indicate that such a transfer ma be
,prohibited,entirely by the Home Rule Charter and
by the Constitution particularly insofar as the
levying of taxes on the areas outside of the City
of Miami by Dade County for the purpose of paying
the bonds.
We particularly wish to call attention to the fact
that ga if Dadt spun, assumed t_he obligation to
� llw LK1. \1L�li
pay the bongs`that the onlypro erty that could be
�trt�r•��wrm��raaKnIwwe.Lur.»�••••....+t. .,.v _,et
taxed to a the bonds would be the property inside
the cor orate i.mits o t e CZt of'liami. Hence
-thiiitili-1-.ioliU-166-1716-61iiifgewners who
have the burden of payment.
aelva
74-24 75C64/ereva...0
39 ;JUL 261973
•
Hon. Maurice A. Ferro July 25, 1973
Mayor
It is our conclusion that if the public park and
recreational function of the City of Miami w re
transferred to Dade County that both the Home Rule
Charter of Dade County and the Florida Constitution
do require that the ad valorem taxation to repay
the indebtedness could.onl be levied even after the
trans er on the residents of and thearoperty in e
City of Miami. It is our conclusion that any plan
for the transfer of, the indebtedness from the public
park and recreational bonds and the public parks
functions would have to be worked out very closely
within the framework of the Florida Constitution,
the Home Rule Charter of Dade County and the Charter
of the City of Miami, and that with the necessary
elections it may be possible to ultimately transfer
these functions and the payment of the bonds in the
manner provided by the Constitution. In view of the
constitutional questions involved, it is apparent that
any plan to acconp1ish the forecoinq would ultimately
M...wYR ."�1.W ..P •..r\N ..�. J •►•.A \.r•7•ri LR 7�i �r �� -
have to be resolved by the Supreme Court which is the
only court that can resolve a constitutional question
insofar as bonds are concerned."
Mayor Ferre: Now that letter is written by bond counsel. Mr. Rothstein
if I am not mistaken which is Bryant, Dickens, Rumph , Franson and
Miller -and -signed by Mr. Ben H. Dickens; Bond-euune1 dated iotay 23 and
as I understand, these people are bond counsel for the City.
Mr. Rothstein: Yes Sir and for many other agencies.
Mayor Ferre: And for many other agencies throughout the State.
Now in view of this, I think it is very obvious that this throws
somewhat a different light and I think all of us were previously con-
sidering because what in effect Bond Counsel has told us, is that the
burden of payment must remain on the citizens of Miami so the basic,
premise which you refer to which was the transfer of debt from the
citizens of, Miami to the area wide and county wide taxpayers is purely
in conflict with the opinion of Bond Counsel. We would have to I think
to finalize, get a resolution and take it to the Supreme Court.
Mr. Etling: But there are two different kinds of monies we are tacking
about, I think. One kind of money we are talking about there is like
the 40 million dollar "Parks for People" program. That letter goes to
that type of payment by the citizens. Now incidentally, we had at our
meeting and I talked a couple of times to Darrey Davis who you probably
know is an attorney who at one time worked for the County and he was of
the opinion without much research that if the citizens determined to.do
so, there is a way that we could get the job done. I don't know how
deeply he went into the math of it but the other debt we are talking
about or let me put it another way as far as part of our concept, at)out
ownership of the properties.
Lots of people own office buildings for example that they derive
the benefits from and so forth and so on but hire professional managers
to run the office building and lots of times the input of the professional
managers has a real value to those people even though they aren't managing
their buildings themselves.
40 (-JUL 26197
One way or a way to look at this situation might well be that
the City of Miami Parks and Recreation Department if run by a
different management team and i. e. the County, might serve a better
purpose than run by its present management team although I know that
the new head of your parks department is an absolute great guy and
Mr. Barnes who was on the committee with me who worked with the County
as head of Parks has nothing but the highest recommendation for him
and is very high on the great job that the City of Miami Parks Department
is doing and they are doing a fine job.
We as a committee are not in any way critical of the fine job
that the City of Miami Parks and Recreation Department is doing. We
felt like in concept, there was reason to look into this matter.
Mayor Ferre: Well let me speak to that point and then we will get to
the public portion, hopefully of this. You know you can say that about
any of the functions of the City of Miami. We could also hire the
Sheriffs Department to run our police department and they might be able
to do a better job of that or we could get the fire department or we
could get the garbage department etc etc and I am not being facitious
but what you are really speaking to is the viability of the
City of Miami. If the City of Miami is to exist, then what is it to
exist for? Because, what is the use of appointing a City Manager,
if there is nothing for him to manage?
Obviously, you haven't heard the end of my position on this which
I am going to reserve to the end. Now, I don't think that if we are
to remain as a City, that we have to be very careful in the turning
over of functions to Metropolitan Dade County. Now, I am also of the
opinion and I agree with you, that there are certain parks, certain
areas, that might be classified as county -wide as function and service
and they are a burden so to speak on the citizens of Miami.
If the County is willing to accept those properties with the burdens
that go along with it, I for one would be open to discussing the
possibility of the transfer of those properties and I am just speaking
for myself but we have to bv very careful and paramount in this whole
discussion is two very impo:tant points.
One is that as of this time, Mr. Reese, you correct me if I am
wrong, we have over. 35 million dollars, of bond issues approved in
1967 or 8 and 1970 and 1972. I don't think we have any left over
from previous to that. What we have left over is the 1970 and 1972 bond
issues which include part of the police station and include many of
the parks. Now, those sums have not been issued yet. Now if we do
not in the City of Miami, issue them, the County cannot do it for us
so in effect, we would be losing the advantage of things that have
been approved by the electorate, #1 and #2, if we turn it over without
passing the issue, it would then be contrary to the will of the people
of Miami who in effect voted for those bonds so that is something that
will have to be considered.
Now the second portion that I think has to be seriously considered
is the question of the transfer of debt and I think that is something
that due to this memorandum that was received today by the city attorney
on an opinion by our bond counsel is a matter that I would like that
Mr. City Attorney that everyone on the Commission get a copy of this,
that Mr. Walter Etling get a copy of it. I would like Mr. Darry Davis
to get a copy of it and Mr. Dan Paul whd has shown some interest and I
would then at the next Commission meeting, like to discuss the poss-
ibility of taking this to the Supreme Court to get a final deliberation
and testing on this so we can finalize on this matter.
41
'JUL 2 61973
• •
Mr. Etling: There was another opinion. I spoke with the Bond Counsel
for the County and he thought there was a possibility that it could
be done and I am not a lawyer.
Mayor Ferre: Did we get a letter from him? Could you request?
Mr. Etling: I just went over and talked to him in the early -on in our
proceedings to find out whether there was even a chance. Then we went
to Darry Davis.
Mr. Rothstein: There has been no bond counsel or county attorney's
opinion written that I know about. One of the big problems is, can
the County do indirectly what they can't do directly? The County
cannot obligate itself for X-number of dollars for bond issues by means
of any other than having a vote of the people. I think that is what
bond counsel is concerned with. If the County Attorney is going to
make a statement that the County can take over millions and millions
of dollars worth of bonds without going to the voters of Dade County
by the indirect means of saying we will pay off a certain amount in
each general budget, I don't know if the Courts would uphold it and I
don't know if he would give that opinion but certainly from the
viewpoint of the citizens of the City of Miami, if anybody in the
County is to take the position, well we can just simply pay off out
of our general budget, there is no way one County Commission or one
County Manager can require later ones to do that so the end result
always may be that the citizens of Miami will never know, if they take
that position, and I don't know that they will because you can't do
indirectly what you can't do directly but the citizens could never know
that they themselvcs will not be burdened with everything.
Mr. Etling: I don't want to go on record as saying that the County
Attorney said anything. We had an informal discussion with a man in
the County that does the bonds and it was without research.
Mayor Ferre:
Lets do it formally. I would like to -
Mrs. Gordon: Can I ask Mr. Rothstein a question?
Mayoi Fe re: Well iet me mrkc a motion before that.
Mrs. Gordon: Before your motion, may I ask that -
Mayor Ferre: It's a very simple motion and that is that this matter be
sent over to the County Attorney and we would like a reply if he has a
difference of opinion including bond counsel;that we also as a matter
of courtesy give this to Mr. Darry Davis and Mr. Dan Paul, both
prominent attorneys in our midst who have taken an interest in this
matter and if they have any points they would like to make on this
legal question, let them come before us and so be scheduled on September
13th for the purpose of clarification. Beyond that we take this matter
to the- well lets not do that yet.
Mr. Reese: Mr. Mayor, this item has been brought up and there were
certain points made that I think on the committee meetings that I sat
in, I gathered a different impression. There was nothing to my
knowledge brought up about the administration of the City of Miami Parks.
That metro could do it more efficient or -
Mayor Ferre: Now before we get into that -
Mr. Reese: Now now, please, may I please make the observation?
Then you can go ahead because there was nothing brought up about that.
Then the other part is that we have never transferred anything to
Metro that they have ever assumed a debt on - anything.
The other point is the libraries were mentioned this morning.
When we transferred the libraries to Metropolitan Dade County, they
were going to institute a county -wide library system and to this day,
you will find it in action line, in this morning's Herald, they have
not initiated a county -wide library system.
Now as you go down through the record and then to mention that
the Le Jeune Golf Course and the Orange Bowl is a tax burden is
'- absolutely erroneous to the public.
1 I want the records straightened that it is not true.
42 'JUL 261973
•
Rev. Gibson: All right the motion was made by the Mayor, is there
a second?
Mr. Plummer: I second the motion.
Rev. Gibson Any discussion? Call the roll Sir.
The following resolution was introduced by Mayor Ferre who
moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 73-578
A RESOLUTION REFERRING TO THE COUNTY ATTORNEY AND THE
BOND COUNSEL FOR METROPOLITAN DADE COUNTY, THE REPORT
OF THE MAYOR'S COMMITTEE ON PARKS AND RECREATION WITH
RESPECT TO THE PROPOSED RECOMMENDATIONS FOR THE
TRANSFER OF THE CITY OF MIAMI PARKS AND RECREATIONAL
FACILITIES TO METROPOLITAN DADE COUNTY, AND REQUESTING
THAT OPINIONS BE FURNISHED TO THE COMMISSION PRIOR TO
SEPTEMBER 13TH IN ORDER THAT THE MATTER MAY BE HEARD
ON THAT DATE WITH A CLARIFICATION OF LEGAL QUESTIONS
WHICH HAVE BEEN RAISED
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here and on
file in the City Clerks Office)
Upon being seconded by Mr. Plummer, the resolution was passed
and adopted by the following vote - AYES: Messrs. Plummer, Reboso,
Mrs. Gordon, Reverend•Gibson and Mayor Ferre. NOES: None
Mayor Ferre: Now the chair will recognize Commissioner Gordon.
Mrs. Gordon: To you Mr. Rothstein. Tell me, how we'can proceed to
request from Metro that they spend some of those tax dollars in the
City of Miami and if we want to be more specific, let's say in those
park areas which the City has which are sometimes referred to as
regional in concept. How can we proceed, not just in a very mild way
but in a very definite way to say that the City of Miami taxpayers are
entitled to have some of the money they voted for spent within the
limits of the City of Miami and they are used not only by us but
by all the citizens of the county. Tell me how to proceed?
Mr. Rothstein: There are several ways. Way #1 is through the
committee that you have already appointed to work in cooperation with
the County. Way #2 is for the civic groups and the citizens of the
City of Miami effectively to join together into a group to present
their voting power to the County Commission at county budget time
to let the County Commission know that they want a fair share of
money of the county being spent into the City for example, instead
of making the citizens of the City pay $1,200,000 to give extra
police service into the unincorporated areas through the Florida Highway
Patrol, that the county could very easily make a taxing district to the
local people to pay for their police the way the local people in the
City pay for their police. Way #3 is for individual taxpayers to
file taxpayers suits determining all these matters about unfair treatment
in which the various municipalities theoretically could join as
amicus curiae but this Commission could not institute such a suit itself.
It has to be a taxpayers suit.
43
?JUL 2 61973
Mr. Plummer: We just recently formed a committee between Miami and
Metro. We will meet again on the 12th of September and I can tell
you Mr. Mayor and Mrs. Gordon, that this question has already been
raised by the committee and will be under discussion on the 12th.
Mrs. Gordon: To finalize it and give support to the theory, I want
to move that this City of Miami Commission go on record as urging
Metro to fulfill the responsibility to the City of Miami taxpayers
in regard to allocating some of the parks bonds monies for use within
the City of Miami park system.
Mayor Ferre: There is a motion.
Rev. Gibson: I'll second that.
Mayor Ferre: There is a second on the motion.
Mr. Rothstein: I believe you now. You passed the other motion about
sending the material to the attorney. ok.
Mrs. Gordon: It needs to be done now because of the budget hearings
that are coming up.
Mayor Ferre: I'll tell you my opinion. I think, I agree with the
theory of it. I think that we are supposed to be having a public
hearing here to duscuss the committee report and I would respectfully
request. I am going to vcte for the motion, but I would respectfully
request that you wait unti.. we finish with the public hearing portion
and then I will recognize you for the motion.
Mrs. Gordon: all right, I will defer my motion to the end of the
public hearing.
Mayor Terre: Now, Mr. Chairman, I don't want you and I feel that you
and your committee may feel that your hard work was for naught.
I want you to recognize that there are divergent opinions in this City
and we are going to hear all of them. I have not taken a position and
I don't thank anybody here has officially at this point.
I want to thank you very much for the hard work and effort that you put
forward. There .are serious matters to be considered. It is a
difficult decision. There are arguments on both sides. There.are
valid arguments on both sides. Some of the premises may change depending
on the legal circumstances. If what the City Attorney and Bryant, Dickens
Rumpf, Franson and Miller say in this letter, then I think you would
agree that it throws a completely different light.
Mr. Etling: Well I.would like to say Mr. Mayor, that I am not
emotional about the matter. I tried to do a job for the City. If you
all decide that the recommendation of this committee which we arrived
at, hopefully in an unemotional manner, are not what you want to do,
you are not going to hurt my feelings at all.
I would also like to respond a little bit to Mr. Reese in that
I agree with him wholeheartedly that no one in our committee ever said
a single thing derogatory about the City of Miami Park and Recreation
Department. As a matter of fact, we were complimentary. In my previous
remarks I was complimentary about the fine job you people were doing and
I never also, said that we were making money in the Marine Stadium or
the Miami Stadium or that we were losing money anywhere. The concept
is all I was speaking of and I used the Miami Springs Golf Course as a
mere example trying to explain our theory and how we arrived at our
conclusion. We aren't mad at anybody.
Mayor Ferre: All right. We certainly thank you for all your deliberations
and for your efforts.
Now at this time, we have 13 speakers that wish -
Mr. Plummer: Maybe I am at a loss Mr. Mayor, but I think the action
of your motion precludes any further hearing at this time until this
legality has been settled.
Mr. Rothstein: The motion was stated and determined, that was just to
send to these other attorneys, this opinion of bond counsels opinion
so you have a public hearing. At the conclusion of the public hearing
if you decide that the Citizens of Miami don't want to turn the parks
44
-.JUL 261973
over under any circumstance, then all that will be an academic legal
discussion. You have a public hearing on.this committee's report
for the citizens either to say yea or nay.
Mayor Ferre: I am going to at this time recognize Mrs. Cammenetti
who is the only other speaker here present, as a proponent of the
turnover and _Mrs. Camenetti how long do you wish to speak?
Rev. Gibson: Mr. Mayor, before the chairman leaves, I hope this city
will pass a resolution thanking the committee for their long and
laborious hours spent.
The following resolution was introduced by Reverend Gibson who
moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 73-579
A RESOLUTION EXPRESSING APPRECIATION TO MR. WALTER
ETLING AND THE MEMBERS OF THE MAYOR'S COMMITTEE ON
PARKS AND RECREATION FOR THE EFFORTS WHICH THEY HAVE
EXPENDED IN CONNECTION WITH THE PROPOSED TRANSFER OF
THE CITY'S PARKS AND RECREATION FACILITIES TO
METROPOLITAN DADE COUNTY, AND INSTRUCTING THE PROPER
OFFICIALS OF THE CITY OF MIAMI TO PREPARE A SUITABLE
RESOLUTION TO BE PRESENTED TO MR. ETLING AND THE
MEMBERS OF THE COMMITTEE AT A FUTURE MEETING OF THE
CITY COMMISSION
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here and on
file in the City Clerks Office)
Upon being seconded by Mr. Reboso, the resolution was passed
and adopted by the following vote - AYES: Messrs. Plummer, Reboso,
Mrs. Gordon, Reverend Gibson and Mayor Ferre. NOES: None
Mrs. Cammenetti: My name is Mrs. Ricky Cammenetti. I live at 4245
S. W. 2nd Terrace. On April 2nd,-I wrote to Mrs. Gordon:"Pursuant
to our conversation regarding mini -parks $ tot lots in our community,
it is respectfully requested that the City Commission appoint a
committee to study the area involved. Our neighborhood is definitely
in need of several such parks. Several children have been hurt and many
have had near misses with the heavier flow of traffic on the streets
while engaged in playing football, baseball and basketball etc.
In urging our neighborhood homeowners to vote for the bond issue, the
provision of parks and playground areas played an important role in
their favorable vote. Hopefully these citizens will not be disappointed.
Trusting that the entire Commission will give this matter their
undivided consideration and in behalf of the children, we remain,
respectfully yours".
At a Planning and Zoning Board, our request for tot lots and
mimi-parks was questioned. I therefore wrote to Mr. Ron
who is property research director for Dade County Parks and Recreation
Department and stated: "continuing our conversation regarding the
vital need for mini -parks and tot lots in our neighborhood, I appeared
before the City of Miami Planning and Zoning Board in behalf of the
children who play in the street after school and on weekends.
Mr. Martinez, a member of the Board stated that he knows of no parks
that border on main throughfares and he would not be inclined to
approve a mini park on LeJeune Road south of Flagler Street at S. W.
2nd Terrace or in that vicinity. I realize we must make every effort
to keep our children away from heavy and hazardous traffic.
They are now playing in the same environment without the proper controls
which they would have in a small enclosed area to serve their needs.
We have no other choice in land areas to serve this community so
heavily populated with growing boys. 3 children have been struck by
45
cars while they play in the street. Our community extended itself
very strongly to get out the vote to approve the bond issue hopefully
to improve and advance the needs of all the citizens of all the
communities, hopefully they will receive a fair share of assistance
in behalf of the children. I am attempting to seek the support of any
agency who can be of some help in this cause. Would you please lend
your kind help and cooperation and advise what parks are situated on
main thoroughfares. The advice of your office is likewise solicited to
aid and assist our community howsoever you see fit"
Mayor Ferre: Mrs. Cammenetti you have now taken up 5 minutes.
Mrs. Cammenetti: I am asking for an extension please.
Mayor Ferre: Another 3 minutes and then I will ask you to sit down
so the other speakers -
Mrs. Cammenetti: I have something important to tell you.
Mayor Ferre: Everybody here has important matters and it is vital they
talk and I will recognize you at the proper time, if we have time beyond
that. Go ahead.
Mrs. Cammenetti: The City of. Miami Parks are not placed at the sole
and exclusive use of the City of Miami, at the exclusive use of the
taxpayers of the City of Miami. We extend Miami's hospitality for all
to enjoy which is as it should be, just as the Atlantic Ocean and
Miami Beach is not used exclusively by those who pay taxes on Miami
Beach. Therefore since Watson Island, Bayfront Park, Coconut Grove
Bayfront Park, are county -wide in significance, and the Golf Courses,
Marine Stadium, Orange Bowl and other recreation areas are used by those
tourists and those who live in unincorporated areas, together with those
of us who live ,within the City of Miami, I submit respectfully that all
of Dade County share the tax structure for Parks and Recreation, just
as we do for the beaches of Dade County including Miami Beach.
This would give us some relief by eliminating the double tax heretofore
paid by the overburdened City of Miami taxpayer.
As it now exists, Dade County has very favorably expanded and is
considered to be one of the best park and recreation system in the
entire nation., according to several national magazines. Most of the
county parks have programs that stretch and reach into every age group.
Many classes and courses are offered including arts and crafts, ceramics
and calisthenics, dance and drama lessons, mobile theater and concert
programs for underpriveleged areas. Bowling, volley ball and tennis
teams are constantly at play including golf. Baseball and Football
stadiums for day and evening use and even a remarkable program for
handicapped and retarded children including olympic competition. All
staffed by qualified and dedicated people with equipment to match.
We are indebted to the Dade County Park and Recreation Department for
taking the initiative at citizens urging to acquire Tropical Park
together with other park land areas from large parcels to mini -parks
and tot lots reserving such parcels of land for generations of children
yet unborn. The county park system should be given the opportunity
to increase the benefits and decrease the cost to the City of Miami
taxpayers. All Dade County will then be under the same recreation
umbrella. That is just what parks for people is all about.
Mrs. Gordon: Mr. Mayor, may I comment on something that -
I just want to reiterate that some of the points that Ricky has made
could have been spoken for the City of Miami. That is exactly what
we are offering in the City.
Mayor Ferre: I will let you make that statement in just a moment and
I will recognize you in a second.
The chair is going to take this prerogative. I wanted the proponents,
the two proponents that were here today to speak. Now this is a public
hearing. The opponents and there are 13 of them have requested for one
hour and a half time to speak. I would like to •point this out to you.
46
-JUL 2 61973
Mayor Ferre: We have a different set of circumstances now then
when we called the public hearing.
The difference is that we have a legal opinion from our City Attorney
and from Bond Counsel which tells us that the citizens of Miami will
still be burdened with the taxes and therefore I think this puts a
different light on this public hearing. I would like to with your
forebearance, like to request that we continue this public hearing
to some other future time, after we have had sufficient time to get a
final legal opinion and given the opportunity to the County and the
different attorneys that are interested to contest this as they will.
Now otherwise let me tell you what we are going to be doing so you
will understand. We will be wasting, and I say that advisedly, two
hours of everybodys time here because with this type of a memorandum
in hand, I do not think that this Commission is going or can, take a
stand today on this matter because this memorandum precludes that.
Now .'uif you want to be heard anyway, I would like to see a show of
hands of who wants to continue this for 2 hours.
Unidentified Man: I think the Mayor's position is well taken. Apart
from the legal and the fiscal problems presented by bond counsels
letter and I am familiar with letters of that type, I think it should
be recorded that a substantial number of citizens have been here since
close to 9 O'clock, to have an opportunity to voice their objections
to anmt handing over of governmental functions to Metro.
Mayor Ferre: Let me cut you off so we can proceed.
I will recognize you in a second. If you want to speak and all of you
want to be heard, I will recognize the following people. There are 14
speakers. We will start now with Mr. Gunn who has requested 8 minutes
to be heard. I want a commitment from each and every one of you that
if you are going to speak, you are going to stay here for the next hour
and a half until you hear the end of this because I am not going to sit
here and have you demand that you be heard, which I am perfectly willing
to go through, and then have you make your statement and walk out of
here. Now, you stay here and listen to the full public meeting. Okay?
Mr. Plummer: Mr. Mayor, Mr. Mayor, let me just for the record.
You know, I think that the question raised by Mr. Rothstein is not only
a great factor but personally as far as J. L. Plummer is concerned,
is an overriding factor because I am going to tell you that in no way
will J. L. Plummer sit here and vote today without this question being
answered and I think that for all of you to stand here and oppose this
thing today without having the facts in front of you, is the same
injustice you are asking me to do. I think the logical thing to do is
put your ducks in a row so we know exactly where we stand. This question
be resolved, then we call another public hearing and let everyone be
heard and then everyone can stand before that microphone and this and
intelligently discuss and then vote. I am making my point for the
record.
Mayor Ferre: Everybody in agreement with that?
(Unintelligible conversation from persons seated in the audience)
Mayor Ferre: Listen for a moment now.
If you want to be heard, I am going to recognize you because you have
been sitting here since 9 o'clock in the morning, so lets go.
Mr. Gunn first. Would you please instead of speaking for the 8 minutes
you requested, could you make that 4 minutes?
Mr. Gunn: I will be glad to Sir, since I have heard the views of the
City Attorney.
Mr. Mayor, last week, I spent a week up in Camp Sebring with
approximately 12 blind boys from the Miami Herald and at that time
there was 4 boys working on their eagle project and they said, we
want to do something different. I said, let's talk about the Parks
system and the green trees of Bayfront Park and well anyhow these boys,
I am speaking on their behalf. They are coming as Eagle Scouts to save
the Park System in the City of Miami and we do live in the County.
The boys father's grew up in the area of Miami with myself. I moved
into the county because of reasons of horses. I like to be out where
the horses are at. At this time, our investigation and what we have
studied comes to the conclusion in this manner.
#1, Bayfront Park, I don't know if the Commission is aware of this but
it is a historic site and could be deemed so by the federal government.
In World War II there was approximately million servicemen trained at
Bayfront Park to fight in the Pacific. Bayfront Park is the only park
and the only landing space in the United States that foreign men came
upon that soil. A german ship •was sunk off the coast of Jacksonville
and they found in the pockets of 5 men that survived, 5 tickets that
they had gone to the Olympia Theatre. At this time, these boys have
been investigating this area for the last week around Bayfront Park from
Jordan Marsh down to the DuPont Plaza and we are not only asking, we
want a continuance to investigate the fact that there is a possibility
of a historical site there at Bayfront Park and we are going to come
back before the Commission in approximately 3 weeks and ask that the
name of Biscayne Boulevard be changed to Biscayne Boulevard of the
Heros. That whole concept of the park of that area was utilized in
World War II including an area where your building is at and there
should be a plaque designating every one of the hotels in that whole
area that was used and I hate to see Metropolitan Dade County take over
a park system which they can't even run in my area of the County.
This business about they have all types of programs. Those programs
are run by the Kiwanis and different organizations. The City of Miami -
Mayor Ferre: At this time, the chair will recognize Mrs. Reagan.
You requested 10 minutes, please make it 5.
Mrs. Reagan: I stand here as the President of the Miami Springs women's
golf association. 2 or 3 years ago, we voted on a question of consol-
idation of the city department with the county and voters overwhelmingly
voted against consolidation. However, the County has taken over:
(a) The Municipal Court and upon so doing some city residents
allege that their tax has increased up to 500%.
(b) The County has taken over the Public Library and it has not
in so doing, maintained the high standards of the service previously
provided by the City.
(c) The County has taken over the City Waterworks and immediately
water rates went up 25%.
If the County takes over the Parks and Recreation Department, then
that leaves only the Police and Fire Department for the County to take
over and consolidation over and above the mandate of the people will
have been accomplished.
If the County takes over Parks and Recreation, just what will it
_ mean for the future expansion of the City? The City it seems to me
has 3 basic assets to sell the world outside of Dade County.
1. Weather - even when its bad in Miami, it is usually worse
every place else.
2. The Orange Bowl - which is seasonal.
3. Golf and Recreational facilities.
If these props are taken away from the City, what does it have left
to promote to sell outsiders? Dade County will probably not promote them
because the City of Miami is a magnetic force that can bring tourists
and business development and all statistics seem to indicate that tourism
is Miami's and Miami Beach's biggest business.
In the early 20's, I understand that the late and revered Captain
Eddie Rickenbacker believed that Miami should not be a tourist area
just for the winter months, but that it had assets and the ability if
you please to become a year round tourist attraction to vacationers
and travelers. Prior to that it was said many hotels and business
dependend on tourists shut down during the summer months.
Captain Rickenbacker so strongly believed it, that it could expand its
tourism to a year round business that he persuaded some hotels to offer
summer rates and he laid a million dollars on the line to promote Miami
as a summer vacation land and year round tourism took off from there.
I well remember when I first heard of friends and business
associations in the northeast saying they were going to Miami for their
vacation in the summertime, I thought they were crazy. It took years
before my family promised me that the tradewinds provide a built
in air conditioning system in Miami, the likes of which cannot be found
on anyplace else on the face of this earth.
48 'yJUL 2 61973
I wonder how many of us in this room today know for example what
County New York City is in? Nobody goes to Manhattan County - they
go to New York.
We have many people at Miami Springs Golf Course that live in this
area only a few months out of the year. Some own property, some rent
and some -
Mayor Ferre: Mrs. Reagan, I would appreciate it if you would begin
to wind up a little bit now in a couple of minutes.
Mrs. Reagan: Well in short Ladies and Gentlemen, we are definitely
against the takeover. Thank you.
Mayor Ferre: Thank you very much Mrs. Reagan. The next speaker
is Mr. Pearlman,. Is Mr. Pearlman here? Mr. Pearlman has left, I
will now recognize Grace Rockafeller.
Mrs. Rockafellar: Mr. Mayor, before I get into my presentation, this
Bond Issue brought up a very interesting point and I think you could
settle this and we would all go home happy without being heard. We
are still, I just verified with Mr. Reese, the property owners in the
City of Miami are still paying a bond indebtedness on the sewage
disposal plant that was turned over to Metro and if there is any indebt-
edness left on the Library Bond Issue, we are still paying that.
Now this is a gross injustice.
Mayor Ferre: Mr. Reese?
Mr. Reese: On the Sewage Disposal Plant, we are still paying the
debt service on it and that is paid through the surcharge on the water
bill.
Mayor Ferre: Do you mean to tell me that the City turned the sewers
back to the county and didn't turn over the debt?
Mr. Reese: They won't take it or you couldn't work it out if you
turned over the debt.
Mayor Ferre: }}ow much is left in the debt?
Mr. Reese: I think between 9 and 11 ;pillion dollars oif"the sewage
disposal plant.
Mrs. Rockafellar: Mr. Mayor, would you accept my suggestion here in
view of all this and in view of what the City Attorney has brought
on this bond issue, I think we could very well avoid the rest of this
public hearing if this City Commission, realizing the injustice that
has been done to us, if you would pass a resolution right now to forget
about turning our parks over to the County, keep our Parks where we belong.
We paid for them.
Now Mr. Etling has said here today, we could keep our parks until
they were paid for and then turn them over to the County.
This is absolutely ridiculous. We are being taken for suckers for Metro
and if you don't want to to that, then I will go on with my presentation.
Mayor Ferre : All right. My personal opinion that this is a matter of
serious importance and we have requested Mr. Etling's committee to make
a presentation. They have and I think we should get legal clarification
and that we should deliberate this matter and then take a formal
position on it. I don't think we are ready to do that today in my
opinion, now if somebody wants to make a motion.
Mrs. Rockafellar: Well the property owners are ready to do it.
Mayor Ferre: The property owners don't sit on this Commission.
Mrs. Rockafellar: Yes but you represent us.
Mayor Ferre: And we are going to take a position and a very clear
position at the appropriate time. We are only talking about the appropria
time.
Mrs. Gordon: These people came to be heard, lets hear them.
49
sJUL 26197
Mayor Ferre: Mrs. Ror'�afellar you requested 15 minutes. I would
respectfully request Vat you make that 5 or 6 miw.ites.
Mrs.Rockafellar: Mr. Mayor, I am speaking for 16 Civic Associations.
Would you rather have 1 at 10 minutes or 16 at 5?
You take your choice.
Mayor Ferre: I will recognize you for 6 minutes and then we will see
how much longer you want to speak.
Mrs. Rockafellar: All right. I am Grace Rockafellar, President of the
NorthEast Taxpayers Association and Director of the NorthEast Improvement
Association. We are representing today the same civic associations we
represented the last time the proposals came upto give our parks away.
These associations are a fairly good representation of the people
in the City of Miami. We want to state now that we are categorically
opposed to giving our parks or anything else to Metro.
We have paid for these parks. We have paid for their maintenance and we
are entitled to keep them.
This Commission is well aware of the fact that consolidation has
been on the ballot, not once but three times. Each and every time it
was soundly defeated. Now we the property owners take that as a mandate
that this. City Commission cannot give anything away without a referendum
on this but never once, have we had the opportunity to vote whether or
not to retain Metro. You know and we know, if we had that opportunity
just once, Metro would be long gone. We don't know of any form of
government in the nation that commands so little respect as does Metro.
In the past few years, this City Commission has seen fit to ignore
our mandate and our City Officials have been forcing consolidation on
us piecemeal. You have given away our Tax Assessors Office, Our Courts,
our Libraries, our only self-sustaining service, our Water and Sewers
System and now our Parks. The only thing we have left is our Police and
Fire Department.
If any official sitting here feels that they want to join Metro,
they can be our guest. They are perfectly willing to do.
Our mandate says that you cannot force this upon us but if the entire
Commission is determined to give our Parks away, then we suggest that
you close up City Hall and do away with the whole thing because we
stand on our statement the first time we were here. We do not intend
to support a city government for just a few services such as the
Police and the Fire Department.
Now it is our understanding that this Commission was acting on a
recommendation made by Dan Paul. Now with all due respect. Mr. Reese
told me that.
Mayor Ferre: That isn't so.
Mrs. Rockafellar: Well who are you acting on? Who made it?
Mayor Ferre : Mr. Walter Etling is the Chairman of the Committee with
members and Mr. Dan Paul doesn't even serve on that committee.
Mrs. Rockafellar: You appointed that committee after a recommendation
was made to you to turn the Parks over.
Mayor Ferre: No, no, no.
Mrs. Rockafellar: Well who did make the recommendation?
Mayor Ferre: Mr. David Kennedy as the Mayor of the City of Miami.
At the time, he appointed a•committee to study this. He did not appoint
a chairman at that time. When I became Acting Mayor, .I appointed
Mr. J. L. Plummer and I added one other person, I forget who it was,
Carlos Arboleya and I appointed Mr. Walter Etling as Chairman of that
Committee which existed but was not functioning for lack of a leader.
It had nothing to do with Mr. Dan Paul. Mr. Dan Paul did not at any
time serve on the committee, visit with the committee or advise the
committee or me that I could speak for myself Mr. Etling and you can
speak for the committee.
Mrs. Rockafeller: Vo I didn't mean that Mr. Dan Paul was on this
committee but it was our understanding that the original proposal
made to this City Commission was made by Dan Paul.
50 %JUL 261973
He is the Attorney for the Miami Herald.
Mayor Ferre: I wasn't on the Commission at that time and those of
you that were, can speak to that.
Mrs. Rockafellar: No? well then I am sorry, I had the wrong information.
Anyway, the Miami Herald has been trying for years. They are very
influential on Metro. They are influential on who sits on that
Commission and what that Commission does. For many years, they have been
trying to do away with our City. They use the power of the press in every
way conceivable. They have used the old axiom: Divide and Conquer our
city officials, one at a time, cutting them down with stories filled with
inuendos and familiar phrases, quote: "Reliable Sources", unquote.
Now this has been going on and will continue to go on as long as we have
a City. Now if our city officials are going to be intimated by this and
consider such a recommendation over our mandate by the people you are
elected to serve. During January, February and March of 1972, our City
Commissioners and Mayor spent a lot of time with our various civic
associations seeking our help in passing a bond issue, "Parks for People"
of the City of_Miami which totalled nearly 40 million dollars.
They painted a beautiful picture for us.
Mayor Ferre: All right Grace, come on.
Mrs. Rockafellar: Well you always. cut me off and I am speaking for 16
groups.
Mayor Ferre: I treat everybody the same, I don't mean to be rude but
we've got to move on, its _almost 1:30.
Mrs. Rockafellar: They painted a beautiful picture to us. They told us
we would. not only have parks for our generation but for generations to
come. We believed those city officials and we passed that bond issue
in good faith but what we were not told, was during that same time,
those same officials were working on a plan to give our parks away.
Now had we known that, that bond issue would have never been passed.
We feel we were deceived and feel the only decent thing this
Commission can do to restore the faith of the people is to abide by
the promise made by the Commission in 1972.
Now as we pointed out earlier, 21% of the population, with our
bond issue of 40 million and our 24 million, we would be paying 64
million dollars or 79% of the population only paid 79%.
If this Commission wants to do something constructive for the
people you represent, why don't you tell Metro, we are no longer going
to subsidize your Police Department, Fire Department, your Parks or
anything else. Tell them to stand on their own 2 feet and to raise the
taxes in the unincorporated area high enough to pay for their own
services and get this unwarranted burden off the backs of the taxpayers
because we believe unless this Commission takes constructive action
in living up to the mandate we have given you and servicing the people
like you are supposed to do, then you are going to face a severe tax
revolt and the people in the City of Miami might take things in their
own hands to correct the injustices.
We are appealing to you as responsible city officials of the
City of Miami to keep our Parks and our services.
We do not want a government of the media. We do not want a
government of Metro. We want a government for the people, by the people
and of the people of the City of Miami and Mr. Mayor, I will close by
saying this.
I can't think of a better wording than you used yourself this morning.
We are proud to be Miamians. We want Miami and we are glad to be here as
Miamians. We do hope you respect that. Thank you.
Mayor Ferre: Thank you Mrs. Rockafellar. The chair will now recognize
Mr. Erny Fannotto, for a brief statement.
Erny how long are you going to talk?
Mr. Fannotto: 7 minutes.
Mayor Ferre: No, you asked for 5 so we are going to give you 4.
51 'JUL 26 172
Mr. Fannotto: Erny Fannotto is my name, President of the Taxpayers
League, Miami and Dade County.
I would like to start off by saying that the public don't Want
our parks transferred to Metro. I have made a slight appraisal and
you can see it today, its 13 to 1. Its 15 to 1 in my estimation.
#1. Has any other city in the county transferred their parks?
No, they are baiting our city because we have the most assets.
#2. Which government is the best risk?
The City of Miami government or the Metro to hand our monies?
City Manager Reese is heads and shoulders above County Manager Goode.
Mr. Andrews has a lot more experience than Ray Goode who only has been
a Manager for 3 or 4 years. Lets talk about the bond issue.
When the people paying the bond issue, that was a vote of confidence
that they wanted a bond issue to give our children and elderly people
something extra to do and not get in trouble, get away from drugs and
soso. When we voted against consolidation, that was a vote of no -con-
fidence in metro. Let's talk about our Water Department which they
helped to consolidate. The best in the County - they took that.
Let's talk about our Fire Department. We've got one of the best fire
departments in the County. Now lets talk about our Orange Bowl which
the big interest county power structure won't be satisfied until they
take it over, and let me tell you Mr. Reese, I want to give him a lot
of credit performing the functions that he did in that Orange Bowl.
It gives the City of Miami businessmen unlimited publicity.
It has helped their pocketbooks plenty.
I just want to close by saying: When the people are led to believe
that we are going to save money, that isn't so. We are 20% of the
population. If all the cities in Dade County would turn over their
parks, we would be paying 20% of all the county park money and I can
just wind up by saying, you people are representing the majority of
people in this City. I hope you will abide by'the wishes of the majority
of the people and you know what that is? Let's keep our City and keep
our functions and keep our Parks and let the monies be administered by
our city officials in government. Thank you.
Mayor Fcrre: Thank you Mr. Fannotto. I will now recognize Mr.
Wellington Rolle and Mr. Rolle we will recognize you for S minutes Sir.
Mr. Rolle: Thank you Mr. Mayor. The time may be shorter than that
based on part of the information we have heard. I listened to Mr. Plummer
earlier in reference to the legal opinion of the legal statements that
were offered by Mr. Rothstein and I think that the basic difference that
we have in that particular statement is just one thing, is who will
continue to pay for it and is it practical for the County to take over the
parks and the debts and burdens rests continuously with the City.
Getting onto the other matters at hand. I have two or three basic
concerns. #1 has to do with the propriety of the Commissioners in their
appointments in these areas on these committees that involve the citizens,
taxpayers and property owners in the City of Miami. I think it stretches
the imagination considerably to have persons sitting on the Commission
and I make no attack on their personal ability at all but its a matter of
principle, that I live in the confines of Miami, a Municipal Corporation
incorporated 1896 rendering certain services to the citizens and the
residents. I am confident that the people here and the people -in the
administration have that kind of an ability and talent to render those
services on a leval that far exceeds all you can imagine from what we
have been able to observe since the inception of the Metropolitan
government. I think the next thing that I want to ask you Mr. Mayor is
whether or not you would care to comment on a resolution No. 43117
dated January 6, 1972. I think if I remember correctly, this resolution
asks the Manager to report and check into the feasibility, possibility
and involvement of the City of Miami passing over to Dade County the
Park Systems from the City of Miami to Dade County. Would you have a
comment Sir as to what the Manager's recommendation was at that time?
52 iJUL 2 697
•
Mayor Ferre: Mr. Rolle, I don't know whether you know that I wasn't
serving on the City Commission at that time so you will have to,
since obviously you have something in mind by asking me this question -
why don't you explain why you are asking the question and what its about.
Mr. Rolle: The reason I am asking the question Sir, is that I simply
am not in accord with the fact that you want to change the operation
of government from one administration and one philosophy to another
irregardless and irrespective of what the Charter said. ,I am thinking
that the rule of thumb and the bible in the City of Miami that we must
all go by must be the Charter and I don't think that the iiitcr;-?tation
of the Charter changes from one administration to the next or one et
of philosophies to the next, towit: We are talking about the citiz'
of the City of Miami having the rightful authority, properly so, to make
the kinds of recommendatinns in terms of how they would like to see their
City continue to grow and progress. These are the kinds of things that
I think citizens in the City of Miami have been involved in for many
years and I think they have done a damm good job of rendering the kinds
of services and telling the people in the City of Miami and the Managers
and the people that render the services, the kinds of things that we
would like to continue to have in the City of Miami.
Mayor Ferre: That sure sounds like a campaign speech to me if I have
ever heard one.
Mr. Rolle: Mr. Mayor, if you will just permit me to make this one
statement without taking it off my time.
You continue to indicate that I may be running for public office. I think
that's not a very good statement to come from the Mayor's chair.
I think that is the thing that the citizen or the individual should be
able to say at the appropriate time, when he deems it appropriate to
make that kind of an and I would not want you to make that
kind of an announcement to try to indicate to the public that we are
making a political speech.
Mayor Ferre: Let me ask you this question now. What resolution was it
you were referring to?
'Mr. Rolle: 43117.
Mayor Ferre: Have you got a copy of that?
Mr. Ro11L: Yes Sir. Would you like to read it Sir?
Mayor Ferre: Let me see that and I don't think that it is appropriate
to debate something like that ,
Mr. Rolle: I would just like for you to read it to the body.
Mayor Ferre: At the appropriate time, then I will answer riyou on that.
1 am sure we will have many opportunities to discuss this resolution.
I have never seen i.t but I will read it and I will answer you at the
appropriate time.
Mr. Rolle: Would you care to read it to the assembly here?
Mayor Ferre: I do not care to read it. I will look at it, I will
study it and at the appropriate time, you and I can discuss it, now
continue with your presentation.
Mr. Rolle: Thank you. Sir, I'll just wind this up. I notice that
the members who serve on this particular committee, the majority of
these persons do not live in the City of Miami. As we recognize
on the Revenue Sharing Committee and I am wondering Sir, is this to
be the precedent that we are going to continue to set in the City of
Miami where persons who do not live in the City of Miami, who are
not paying the burden or the weight, of the business functions of
the City of Miami, I am wondering if these are going to continue to
be the persons who are going to make the decisions under which the
rest of us who live here must continue to abide by?
These are some concerns that I have and I am certain that there are
many other citizens in the City of Miami who share these and other
kinds of concerns and we would hope Sir that in the future, you would
53
,JUL 261973
•
afford the taxpaying citizens and bonafide residents within the
confinies and boundaries of the City of Miami the opportunity to
serve their community and I think it stretches the imagination to even
suggest covertly that there are not people in the City of Miami who
have the ability, acquired experience or what have you, who would not
be able to serve.
I would use the last minute and would like to point out to the
chair that we are being handled with a very heavy hand in the City of
Miami and I don't think that this is the kind of thing that the citizens
will appreciate,
One point think I want to make as I leave is that'while the
Mayor certainly has the prerogative to chair the meeting, I think that
at a public hearing, the Mayor and his fellow commissioners should be
fair and sit here and listen to the commentary of its citizens.
Mayor Ferre: Thank you Mr. Rolle for your comments. Now let me answer
your question. Your question was, I assume, had I been here in January
1972, and had I been asked to vote on Resolution No. 43117, directing
the City Manager and authorizing him to submit a report to the Commission
on the feasibility and advisability, I would have voted yes with that like
everybody else.
Mr. Rolle: That was not the question Mr. Mayor. The question was
what did the Commission do with his report? And did the Manager make
a report? That's the question.
Mayor Ferre: That you will have to ask the Manager because I was not
here at the time. I don't think its relevant at all. Obviously it
has something to do with another matter.
Now I will recognize Mr. Batz. Sir would you limit your talk to 3 minutes?
Mr. Batz: Honorable Mayor & commissioners. I am Leonard E. A. Batz,
30 N. W. 51 Avenue, Miami. My statement concerns two groups. Senior
citizens and golfers. As the past president of the Inner Center
Presidents council of senior centers of Dade Co. Inc., I am representing
the membership of 8,000 senior citizens. As president of the Le Jeune
man's golf association, I represent the retired senior golfers and other
members. We senior citizens are opposed to the merger or takeover of the
City of Miami Parks and Recreation Department for operation by the Dade
County Parks and Recreation Department.
When the Miami Parks bond issue was presented to the voting citizen, I
personally spoke before the 7 senior centers advising them of the
advantages of small parks with their recreation programs suited to their
needs, which would improve their health and future outlook as recommended
by the Presidents National Health Program. As of this date, in the
City of Miami parks have been located, a senior citizens recreation
program has been approved to be initiated for October of this year and
now this is to be taken away from the senior citizens who have voted
for it. We are told the change will save money, I'll skip that one.
To date: No recreation program has been announced by the County except
for spectator sports, the Orange Bowl.
Now the basic issue appears to be a conflict of philosophy between
the City and the County. The City of Miami Recreation Department persues
the concept that recreation is for the residents young and old at a
minimum cost without desire for profit. The County is still laboring
on an outdated theory that you maximum charge the snowbirds during the
season to make enough profit to pay for the personnel and facilities for
the remaining off-season year. It matters not whether you are a tax -paying
resident of the county, you pay a high price all year.
The City bf Miami has recognized that recreation activities must
be on a 12 month basis to be self-supporting and that cost can be related
to such operations.
The City of Miami also recognizes the tremendous success of the
Miami Dolphins Football team, which projects the image of Miami - not
Miami Beach or Dade County.
Now the golf program if taken over by the County, under their
present philosophy, would be a profit motive effort in place of
healthful recreation at a prohibitive cost to the retired person or
senior citizen. The demand for more golf courses during the season
has resulted in an increase of the last 5 years from 23 to 47 golf
courses. The increased golf courses were built by land developers to
help sell their apartments or condominium or housing project and
demands you pay a golf fee and use a golf cart.
54 `JUL 2619
This is pure profit motive, not walking for recreation. The County
course at Key Biscayne is a notable example. $5 to $6 green fee and
$8 golf cart in off-season, $7 to $8 green fee and $8 cart fee during
the sea -son. A retiree living on a fixed income cannot afford such
luxury.
The county in the past 3 years has raised the golf fees at yearly rates
and continually cries they are losing noney instead of investigating
the problem and providing a practical solution. The City of Miami has
continued the policy of h fee for senior citizens. A low cost yearly
fee for retired week day players and will rent carts who really need
them thus providing recreation to those who really need recreation for
health purposes and live in Miami all year long.
Please don't let the voter down.
Mayor Ferre: All right, thank you very much. Now who else want's to speak?
Mrs. Malloy: I am Ruth Malloy and you have a copy of my letter.
Mayor Ferre: Yes I have a copy and it will be in the record Mrs. Malloy.
Mrs. Malloy: I have appeared before this Commission ever since November
3, 1965 about the deplorable conditions at Lummus Park. I wrote a letter
to you & Mr. Plummer remembers it. Mayor Kennedy told Mr. Andrews to go
down and see what needed to be done. As usual, very little was done.
In appointing Mr. Andrews it seems to me, you are just perpetuating
Mr. Reese and I don't know what he has against Lummus Park but its still
in deplorable condition.
Mayor Ferre: You have our assurance and Mr. Reese's that the bond money
that is allocated and I will give you a statement. Paul would you get
her one of those books?
Mrs. Malloy : I want the $120,000 spent on Lummus Park.
They got $120,000 for the east 233' of the expressway, that's the money
I am talking about. What happened to that money?
Mayor Ferre: Mr. Reese, at the appropriate time, would you write to
Mrs. Malloy explaining to her whit happened to the $120,000 that came
out of the expropriation of the expressway next to Lummus Park, if you
can find it in the records.
We want to thank you for making your statement. One more speaker.
Mr. Litvak: Mr. Mayor, I am not going to make any statement that we
had prepared because obviously the Commission is not going to take any
action today.
I just wanted to concur with what Mr. Reese said that the report the
committee made to the Commission has many inaccuracies and when the
appropriate time comes, we would like to have the opportunity to
respond with our own report, as well as at a public hearing.
We are entirely against, the employees and taxpayers are against the
transfer to Metro.
Mayor Ferri:: All right, thank you very much Mr. Litvak.
Mr. Plummer: Mr. Mayor, at this time, I would like to reiterate my
motion of before that this public, hearing be continued to such time.
I am not setting a date so that the most convenient time thereafter that
we receive an answer to this very serious legal question that has been
raised by both the bonding counsel and Mr. Rothstein.
Rev. Gibson: Second.
The following resolution was introduduced by Mr. Plummer who
moved its adoption:
55 -'JUL 2 61973
RESOLUTION N0.73-580
A RESOLUTION CONTINUING THE PUBLIC HEARING HELD THIS
DATE ON THE REPORT OF THE MAYOR'S COMMITTEE ON PARKS
AND RECREATION WITH RESPECT TO THE RECOMMENDATION OF
SAID COMMITTEE ON THE PROPOSED TRANSFER OF THE CITY'S
PARKS AND RECREATIONAL FACILITIES TO METROPOLITAN DADE
COUNTY PENDING RECEIPT OF REPLIES FROM THE DADE COUNTY
ATTORNEY AND THE BOND COUNSEL FOR METROPOLITAN DADE
COUNTY ON THE LEGAL.QUESTIONS RAISED IN CONNECTION WITH
SUCH A TRANSFER BY THE CITY OF MIAMI'S BOND COUNSEL
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here and on file
in the City Clerks Office,
Upon being seconded by Reverend Gibson, the resolution was
passed and adopted by the following vote - AYES: Messrs. Plummer,
Reboso, Mrs. Gordon, Reverend Gibson and Mayor Ferre. NOES: None
Mr. Reese: Mr. Mayor, may I clarify the record on one thing that was
stated here and that was that the point was made that Mr. Danny Paul
was the one that originated this idea.
To the best of my memory and knowledge, Mr. Danny Paul appeared
before this Commission at the time that the public hearing was held
to go on on the $39 million dollar bond issue. He was in favor of the
bond issue and he suggested to the City Commission that the city con-
sider going on the bond issue and then passing the parks over to Metro,
at which time it was pointed out, it wouldn't be fair to the public to
do this and the right thing was to put that to rest but then later on
it was brought up with the creation of this committee so I wanted to
point that up and clarify it on that basis.
Mayor Ferre: Mr. Rothstein let me ask you a question.
Mr. Plummer: Mr. Mayor, since he brought that point up, let me clarify
my position. I recall at no time did Mr. Paul bring or force the issue
of this transfer before this Commission. It was assumed since there was
a great interim of time between Mr. Paul making that statement and the
time that the Mayor proposed before this Commission that this committee
be formed. I don't believe, I can't speak for another man that the two
are correlated. I think the Mayor did this as he indicated in his
statement for the purpose of trying to save dollars.
Mayor Ferre: I would like to ask a question also for the record.
From the City Attorney and those of you may clarify this that were here
at the time.
Several people have told me that they distinctly remember that
the City of Miami Commission went on record transferring these parks
to Metro and asked that this committee just study the implementation
of that. Now that is not my understanding and I want that clarified
for the record.
Rev. Gibson: Mr. Mayor -
Mayor Ferre: Well let's let the Clerk or the Manager clarify that.
Mr. Reese: No Sir, there is no record of this City Commission ever
voting to transfer the Parks to Metropolitan Dade County.
Mayor Ferre: Ok. I just wanted to reiterate because there are several
people who have a misunderstanding on that.
Rev. Gibson: Mr. Mayor, again, as I always do when a question was
raised, when the appointment of the committee was made, I raised spec-
ifically if this meant the transfer. The reply from the Mayor to me
56
-"JUL 2 61973
• •
was, this is simply to study the advisability and the feasibility.
I always raise the question.
Mayor Ferre: Ok, that is clarified for the record. Now here is what
we are going to do.
Mrs. Gordon: May I bring back to the table, the motion that we deferred
to the end of the public hearing Mr. Mayor?
Mayor Ferre: All right, go ahead.
Mrs. Gordon: Do you want the Clerk to read it back please?
Mr. Southern: Yes, it is that the Commission go on record urging
Metropolitan Dade County to fulfill its responsibility to the City of
Miami Taxpayers in regard to allocating some of the Parks Bonds monies
for use within the City of Miami Park system.
Mrs. Gordon: All right, that's the motion.
Rev. Gibson: I second that motion.
Mr. Plummer: Mrs. Gordon, would you like to incorporate in your motion
the following wording?
That we contribute 27% of Metropolitan Dade County's taxes and that in
a like manner, we be treated with 27% of the goodies that are forthcoming.
Mayor Ferre: I'll tell you how to make that even stronger. That they
be consistent since they have passed a resolution to the Legislature
requesting that the State return to the County, its proportionate share
of tax funds, that they consistent with that philosophy, continue and
do the same thing with the cities.
Mrs. Gordon: I will accept the wording in its most appropriate form,
the intent is that we get our fair share.
Both the Mayor and my fellow Commissioner have valid points and we will
incorporate those in the motion.
Rev. Gibson: Mr. Mayor, I started to say in seconding
I wanted Mrs. Gordon to accept "proportionate" meaning
or 26 or 21, that if we use the :c,rd proportionate, we
into a hassle to the exact penny.
Mrs. Gordon: Use the word proportionate.
Mayor Ferre: I would like to very respectfu31j► request Mrs. Gordon,
that those words where we, it sounds like we are lecturing to the
County, for them to fulfill their duty and all that kind of stuff, that
we should take those few words out. The motion remains the same, the
intent is the same. I just don't want to start a squabble where we
are lecturing to the County or anything else.
This is a matter that we are going on record as to how we feel about
it, what they do of course is there -
the motion.
whether its 27%
may avoid getting
Mrs. Gordon: We would just like to insert "strongly urge" because
we are not just mildly asking.
Mayor Ferre: Let the record reflect that obviously we are not saying
200 million dollars that the County spends, that we 27% of that
because that's ridiculous. We are just saying those funds that are
spent for example in parks, that they recognize our proportionate
share.
Mrs. Gordon: Exactly and I am not referring that it be spent for
instance in the areas limited only to the county's responsibilities
which are now such as Vizcaya or the Planetarium which certainly I
want them to spend money there too but I don't want them to say that
that's the portion that we are getting in the City of Miami. We need
that plus. We need some more money due back to the City and they
should be spent in the City for the top parks for instance. We need
our share spent here.
57 :47JUL 2 6197
• •
Mayor Ferre: 'Call the question please.
Mr. Southern: This is as amended now with those changes.
Mayor Ferre: Yes with all those changes.
The following resolution was introduced by Mrs. Gordon who
moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 73-581
A RESOLUTION STRONGLY URGING METROPOLITAN DADE COUNTY
TO ALLOCATE A PROPORTIONATE SHARE OF ITS PARK BOND
FUNDS FOR DEVELOPMENT OF PARK AND RECREATIONAL FACIL-
ITIES WITHIN THE CITY OF MIAMI
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here and on file
in the City Clerk's Office)
Upon being seconded by Reverend Gibson, the resolution was passed
and adopted by the following vote - AYES: Messrs. Plummer, Reboso, Mrs.
Gordon, Reverend Gibson and Mayor Ferre. NOES: None
5 MINUTE RECESS
17, CONFIRMING ORDERING RESOLUTION - SHENANDOAH HIGHWAY IMPROVEMENT
H-4362 AND H-4365
The Mayor announced the Commission was now ready to consider the
hearing of any objections to confirmation of the highway improvement as
described above.
One objector appeared.
Mrs. Dunn: My name is Nellie Dunn, 2612 S. W. 19 Terrace. First thing,
I don't want to pay the money for it and the other is that I don't
think it's necessary. That was supposed to be because the water doesn't
run off and the water does run off and that's my objection is that we
don't need it really.
Mayor Ferre: Mr. Grimm, would you like to respond for the administration
please sir?
Mr. Grimm: We created a
roughly from 16th Street
Avenue.
Now the streets you see here, we
those that are colored in orange
resurfacing. Included with this
and drainage.
Highway District in the Shenandoah area
south to Coral Way and from 27th Avenue
have ridden all of them and
for rebuilding and those in
are some curb improvements,
to 17th
selected
blud for
landscaping
Mr. Plummer: Did you hear this lay's particular point. Ma'am, what
street was it?
Mrs. Dunn: 19th Terrace.
Mr. Plummer: She said she has no problem and it's not needed in her
area.
Mrs. Dunn: No and I have been in that area 50 years and once we had
a 14' cloudburst and it ran off and we didn't have all these nice
gutters and things that you have put in there since then.
58 JUL 26197:
•
Mr. Plummer: Ma'am, are you aware that this Commission as you see on
this map 1.annot look just at your individual house or your individual
street. It is maybe unfortunate that your particular house and street
form in a web or a network Itffecting the whole area. Now you could
very easily be right that your particular house and your street is not
affected but we have to th::nk of the overall area and I personally
know in the Shenandoah Park area there are some real bad situations
there.
Mrs. Dunn: Well I wish to call attention to the fact that the next
street over .which is 20th Street is not in this little designated .area
for improvements.
Mr. Plummer: Yes Ma'am it is.
Mr. Grimm: Well it depends on where she is Mr. Plummer. On 19th
Terrace and the 3 segments of 19th Terrace that we have selected, there
are 58 different property owners. Of this we have 3 people returning
a yes vote to us and only 1 negative one. All the rest did not respond.
Now I realize that we sometimes get into a matter of opinion. I know
she objects to the cost, she said that earlier but this is really quite
a bargain. We are talking about a price that varies from $2 to $5 a
foot which the City is paying about 7 times thatcost.
Mrs. Dunn: Well in our area, you would have had more objections but
there are 4 people, 2 of them that are out of the country that will
object and 2 more who are out of the City with serious illnesses in
their families. 19th Terrace doesn't seem to be affected except
between 25th and 27th.
Mr. Grimm: We have 3 different segments Ma'am, between 23rd and 21st
and between 27th and 25th.
Mrs. Dunn: Our land was homesteaded in the early part of the century
and the deed passed to us and the farmhouse of the Davis's was on this
19th Terrace and pine trees were around and where a pine tree stand
grows, water never stands and we were completely surrounded with
grapefruit groves and they didn't plant their grapefruit where water
stood. That particular little area where I am just off 27th Avenue
has been under my absolute observation for 50 years and water has not
been a problem, standing water.
Mr. Grimm: Well I can't refute whether she has water in front of her
house or not but I lived on 24th Avenue and 16th Street from 1939 to
1954 and right in front of my house, we had puddles.
Mrs. Dunn: In 16th street, in 1925-6, I have seen the water come
in on the floorboards of a packard car that I was driving. 16th has
always been low.
Mayor Ferre: Mrs. Dunn, the problem is that we cannot single out one
house or one area unfortunately so we have this problem every single
time we pass one of these things. There is always one person that has
an objection and many times that person is right, as far as that
individual person is concerned but then if affects the whole neighborhood
or the whole street and we have got to think of the overall community.
Mrs. Dunn: Well if nobody in that little particular area that you
designated, all of us object, and would that have any bearing on it?
Mr. Grimm: I really didn't hear where she was Mr. Mayor, where is she?
Mayor Ferre: Would you point out exactly where you live?
Mr. Grimm: What part of 19th terrace are you on?
Mrs. Dunn: 2612 is my address.
Mr. Grimm: Mr. Mayor, I will delete that block of 19th Terrace if
the Commission desires and that will take care of that and eliminate
that whole street from the district and we can go ahead with the rest.
Mayor Ferre: What is the will of the Commission?
59 JUL Z 61973
1
a
• •
Rev. Gibson: Move.
Mayor Ferre: With the elim:„nation, there's a second for the deletion
of 19th Terrace between 25th and 27th Avenues.
Mrs. Dunn: You really made a good decision because I have told you
the truth.
The following resolution was introduced by Reverend Gibson who
moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 73-582
A RESOLUTION CONFIRMING ORDERING RESOLUTION NO. 73-500
AND AUTHORIZING THE CITY CLERK TO ADVERTISE FOR SEALED
BIDS FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF SHENANDOAH HIGHWAY IMPROVE-
MENT, SECTION A, H-4362 IN SHENANDOAH HIGHWAY IMPROVEMENT
DISTRICT, SECTION A, H-4362
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here and on file
in the City Clerks Office)
Upon being seconded by Mr. Plummer, the resolution was passed
and adopted by the following vote - AYES: Messrs. Plummer, Reboso, Mrs.
Gordon, Reverend Gibson and Mayor Ferre. NOES: None
NO OBJECTORS APPEARED ON THE "B" PORTION -
The following resolution was introduced by Mr. Plummer who moved
its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 73-583
A RESOLUTION CONFIRMING ORDERING RESOLUTION NO.73-501
AND AUTHORIZING THE CITY CLERK TO ADVERTISE FOR SEALED
BIDS FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF SHENANDOAH HIGHWAY IMPROVE-
MENT, SECTION B, H-4365 IN SHENANDOAH HIGHWAY IMPROVEMENT
DISTRICT, SECTION B, H-4365
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here and on file
in the City Clerks Office)
Upon being seconded by Reverend Gibson, the resolution was passed
and adopted by the following vote - AYES: Messrs. Plummer, Reboso,
Mrs. Gordon, Reverend Gibson and Mayor ferre. NOES: None
60 JUL 261973
•
18, CHANGE OF' ZONING CLASSIFICATION- LOTS 1 THRU 5. BLOCK 14_ GRAND VIEW PA -
An Ordinance entitled -
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING ORDINANCE NO. 6871, THE COMPRE-
HENSIVE ZONING ORDINANCE FOR THE CITY OF MIAMI, BY
CHANGING THE ZONING CLASSIFICATION FOR LOTS 1 THRU 5,
BLOCK 1, GRAND VIEW PARK, (5-58), LOCATED AT 1524 N. W.
14TH AVENUE, FROM R-3,(low-density-multiple) DISTRICT TO
R-C (Residence -Office) DISTRICT
was introduced by Mr. Plummer, seconded by Mr. Reboso, and passed on
its first reading by title by the following vote - AYES: Messrs.
Plummer, Reboso, Mrs. Gordon, Reverend Gibson and Mayor Ferre.
Mr. Sidney Aronovitz appeared in behalf of the applicant.
19, STATEMENT BY THE CITY ATTORNEY ON THE SUBJECT OF ZONING MATTERS
Mr. Rothstein: Mr. Mayor, myself and the County Attorney and the
various other City Attorneyn all received a communication this
last week from the Florida Bar dealing with the unauthorized practice
of law.
They have made a ruling that with specific reference to Zoning
matters and in general to administrative boards but mostly specifics
to zoning, that when an individual appears in front of an adminis-
trative board for zoning matters with, on behalf of and for another
person, that that person appearing and representing the other person
is committing the act of the unauthorized practice of law.
Since the act of unauthorized practice of law is a misdemeanor
in the first degree, I have to advise this Commission and I have
already advised our Zoning Board, that you should not allow anyone to
appear bei:ire you representing another person on a zoning matter unless
they are a member of a bar because then you would be acting in concert
for the violation of a misdemeanor of the first degree. This does not
mean that -
Mrs. Gordon: Do we have to ask for a certification from each one?
Mr. Rothstein: There would have to be a representation that they are
a member of the bar.
Mayor Ferre: You mean to tell me a citizen of this city cannot come -
Mr. Rothstein: No, I said someone cannot come representing another
person.
A person can come representing himself and then introduce expert
witnesses such as architects etc.
Mayor ^erre: This isn't a lawyers relief bill, is it?
Mr.Rothstein: Yes it means Mel Reese and Associates Inc., cannot
appear in the county on behalf of zoning matters for people.
Mr. Reese: I think the Supreme Court ought to rule on that. I don't
think you ought to take an attorneyt opinion.
Mr. Rothstein: This comes from the Florida Bar.
Mr. Reese: They are only an appendage to the Supreme Court.
Mr. Plummer: Mr. Mayor just for clarification because I don't think
anybody here wants to get into something that would be illegal.
61 JUL 2 61973
•
I would question the ruling to Mr. Rothstein. Mr. Rothstein let me
ask you this Sir because we see it here so many times.
Take the example of people who are latins who cannot speak english and
then come here representing the owner. We have as you are well aware
of the fact, many people who appear before this Commission who cannot
speak english,. the latin people and they have with them someone who is
translating, representing, whatever you want for them.
Now, are you telling me that that person can't speak for the individual?
Mr. Rothstein: The problem is in your termination of whatever you
want, •utd can that person not speak for the individual. A person can
obviously translate verbatim a request by a party for a zoning change
but if he goes and says, this is Mr. Jones, he can't speak english,
he has told me this is his problem and I am going to tell you what his
problem is, that is a violation according to the memorandum of the
Florida Bar.
Mr. Plummer: You know Mr. Rothstein, its well and good and I personally
would like to see it if I was assured that everybody had the money to
hire a lawyer but the next thing I see coming is that we set up a
public defenders office sponsored by city taxpayers dollars to represent
those people who do not have the sufficient funds to hire.
Now, this is all well and good but I think since you have brought this
up and you likewise then put the kicker in there, that its a first
degree felony -
Mr. Rothstein: No misdemeanor.
Mr.Plummer: It still means J.L. will sit behind bars.
I think that Mr. Rothstein that we ought to have some real clear guidelines
on that thing to be able to say, what's right and what's wrong.'
Mr. Rothstein: We are preparing those now Sir.
Mr. Plummer: I think its a must.
Mr. Rothstein: But it is very clear that there are some fine lines,
for example, an architect who is introduced by a man who is building a
building who says I want to get a zoning change and my architect will
explain what I want, that is perfectly permissable but if an architect
comes down and says, I am representing this and this group, and we are
going to do this and this and this and we want this zoning change, you
can't do that.
Mrs. Gordon: May I ask a question Mr. Rothstein. That's an opinion
of the Bar, an organization of Attorneys, isn't it?
What about the Attorney General opinion. How does he feel about it?
Mr. Rothstein: They are the official representative of the Supreme
Court, the integrated Florida Bar and the point is, from the viewpoint
of a Commission and a Board, it would be up to some individual to file
some kind of a declaratory decree to knock them out on that opinion
because presumably if someone wants to write and ask the things about
a Commission or wants to file charges against a Commission member .
consipracy goes far enough to be conspiring to commit a misdemeanor one
that this Board has, as I have, no choice but to take what the Florida
Bar sent to us and act accordingly until some court says differently.
Mrs. Gordon: You are saying that this only holds true on zoning cases
though? Nothing else? Only on zoning matters?
Mr. Rothstein: Well the reason I said Zoning Matters was the particular
opinion dealt for the most part of it with a zoning matter because that
was where the question arose, however, the language was broad enough to
include administrative boards in general so there might be some other
fine lines in a Plat Committee for example where its all experts making
presentations as opposed to a Zoning Board where there is no question
what the Florida Bar, unauthorized practice of law committee said.
I want you to understand that that particular committee is given the
job by the Supreme Court to enforce against unauthorized practice of law.
Mayor Ferre: Lets move on. 'Are there any further comments or 'actions
by the City Commission?
62
. 1 1 , 1 (. /t ter' 1
•
Mr. Plummer: Just that I hope he will be coming with a very definitive,
clear guidelines, that's all.
Mayor Ferre:
meeting?
All right would you do so Mr.•Rothstein by the next
Mr. Rothstein: Yes Sir.
20, CHANGE ZONING CLASSIFICATION -LOTS I0J.1.12113, BLOCK 8 WINTER
GARDEN 1ST AMD (5-22) - DISCUSSION ONLY - ITEM WAS DEFERRED
The Mayor announced the Commission was now ready to consider
this application for change of zoning.
Mr. Plummer:
is true?
Unidentified
Mr. Plummer:
Unidentified
Mr. Plummer:
Unidentified
Mr. Plummer:
Unidentified
Sir, do you stipulate that everything herein contained
Man:
Are
Man:
Yes.
you the owner Sir?
I am buying the land, yes.
What's that Sir?
Man: I am buying the land.
You don't own the land?
Man: No
Mr. Plummer: Well then you are not the owner then Sir.
J. L. isn't going to jail.
Mr. David Simpson:
Ex.Scty Plan.Bd. The same thing happened Monday
made the announcement and we had to defer one item
could get the owner of the property.
Mayor Ferre: I'll tell you the problem is, the owner was here but the
poor man has been here since 9:30 and its now 2:30 and its through no
fault of his.
Mrs. Gordon:
to face us in
Mr. Plummer:
application.
Mrs. Gordon:
Mayor Ferre:
Mr. Plummer:
Mrs. Gordon:
Mr. Plummer:
question but
Mayor Ferre:
Rev. Gibson:
Mayor Ferre:
Mr. Plummer:
Night when Mr. Turner
until that individual
Mr. Mayor, nothing says the applicant has to be here
order for us to act on this.
He is representing the owner. He can't legally make
He didn't make the application as I understand it.
The owner made it.
He is representing the owner.
He doesn't have to. He can sit down and we can vote on it.
Mr. Mayor, I would have voted for this thing without
when that man says what he said, Im gonna make sure.
You are right. Get the owner so we can clarify it.
Can you get the owner in a few minutes?
Can you call him to come back?
Sir, under the law you can't make application.
63. JUL 2 61973
Mr. Harris Turner
Asst.City Atty. : Mr. Mayor because he is the applicant, he may
represent himself in this case.
Mr. Plummer: Wait a minute.
Mayor Ferre: That is a legal opinion.
Mr. Plummer: Okay, I am asking a question.
Mayor Ferre: Go ahead.
Mr. Plummer: I thought only the owner could make application for a
zoning change.
Mr. Turner: this is one of the fine points,.the way Mr. Rothstein
explained it is, and he gave it as brief as he could but this also
is included. To get into the intracicies of the opinion, it is because
Mayor Ferre: I don't mean to criticize the legal profession but this
is typical.
Mr. Turner: On the basis that a person is representing himself, he
can do this but if another person is representing, this is the
foundation of his legal rights and -
Mayor Ferre: Wait a minute, lets cut through all of this.
Now we have a legal opinion on record now.
Mrs. Gordon: Are you Edna Investment Inc.?
Unidentified Man: No, this application was filed in my name and I
have an affidavit -
Mayor Ferre: He is the applicant and the City Attorney has now ruled
that he can make this application. Is there a motion?
Rev. Gibson: I move -
Mayor Ferre: Is there a second?
Mr. Plummer: Can a man make an application who is not the owner?
I want this question answered.
Can a man who is not the owner of a piece of property make application
for a zoning change?
Mr. Simpson: He has to be joined by the owner of the property and we
require right now, an affidavit as to who owns the property.
Unidentified Man: I have an affidavit on file when I made the application
from the owners of this land to rezone it.
Mayor Ferre: Mr. City Attorney, will you rule on this please?
Mr. Turner: Mr. Mayor I made one ruling that the applicant can represent
himself.
Mr. Plummer: That's not the question.
Mayor Ferre: The question is can this man legally not owning the
property, make this application?
Mr. Simpson: What is your name?
Unidentified Man: My name is Oscar Vasquez.
Mr. Simpson: The application and the affidavit show the name of a
Patterson -
Mayor Ferre: Mr. Simpson, we are on Item 11. The applicant is Edna
Investments Inc., according to the record here.
Mr. Vasquez: That is the people I am renting the land from.
64
Mr. Rothstein: No Sir, I am sirry, in effect you are representing
them here today.
If you were the applicant -
Mr. Vasquez: I am the applicant.
Mr. Rothstein: No you are not Sir. The applicant is the owner,
Edna Investment Inc.
Mr. Plummer: Mr. Mayor, let me make my point clear.
Mayor Ferre: Its clear J.L.
Mr. Plummer: If you get the owner here, I am all in favor an will
vote yes.
Mayor Ferre: Is there a motion for deferral to later on. We will
take it up whenever the owner gets here.
Rev. Gibson: Move to defer.
Mr. Reboso: I second the motion.
Thereupon the matter was deferred to later in the day ur until
the next meeting if the owner is unable to appear at this time.
21, VARIANCE - LOT 2, 3, BLACK 58N, MIAMI B-41
Mr. Robert Korner, Attorney at Law, representing the applicant,
Leahy Business Archives appeared.
Mr. Actor': I will read a letter that is on file from the Dade County
Department of Transportation. In part they say -
"Although this department considers the proposed use the
most reasonable for the subject location, this department
still recommends denial for the request for variance and
we are mainly concerned with the future traffic flow on
North 7th Street and potential future use of the proposed
building at the subject location. The paved area proposed
to setback could best be utilized as a turn back area for
the owner delivery van thus eliminating backing into the
street"
It goes on to say that they are against it mainly because of the fact
that we should not be recommending denial in this particular location
for off-street parking. The same reason that the Department recommended
denial.
We do know that through the efforts of our Downtown Zoning Consultant,
that traffic in the entire downtown area will be critical. There are
very definite recommendations forthcoming as to where parking should
be placed in the downtown area and how it should be controlled.
On a field inspection of this particular property, I did find that the
area was fairly congested with vehicles parking on the street.
We just don't believe that a recommendation or waiver should be granted.
Mr. Korner: If I may, I would like to answer that. The lot was
created in 1906 and is only 37.7' wide. The city regulations require
no less than 42' in order to come onto a lot, park, turn around and
come back out. There is no physical way to provide parking on this
lot. The regulation until recently allowed a building such as this with
3,000 sq.ft. of area to be built without parking. The owners purchased
the lot under that regulation, had the building designed under that
regulation, it was even approved by the Building Department but then the
regulation was changed before the permit was issued. The building will
set back 25', 20' of which will be paved but it doesn't comply with
this 42' requirement as far as turning around and coming aback out
I think that the Department of Traffic and Transportation of Dade County
sums it up when they agree that this is the most reasonable use for the
subject property and actually its the only use. There is no property
adjoining or within 300' that is available for this owner to purchase,
65 JUL 261973
• •
We run into a situation that really if he is to have any reasonable
use of the property, this is the least use that the owner can have
and still not be deprived totally of the use of his property.
Mr. Acton: Mr. Mayor, I did :ant to point out that both the applicant's
lot and the property next door at this present time are vacant, are
being fully utilized as off-street parking lots.
Mr. Plummer: Well but George, lets come down the practicality of it.
I have realized you .=have got to go by the book when you make your
determinations but is Mr. Korner reasonable saying that this is a
reasonable use of the subject piece of property? I know you don't
like to deviate but lets -
Mr. Acton: Really what we suggested Commissioner Plummer in our
recommendations is that the applicant make a concerted effort in finding
remote off-street parking facilities in connection with this site.
We realize of course that he can't provide on -site parking but we
are of the opinion that he should make a concerted effort to find a
remote site.
Mr. Plummer: That's what I wanted to hear. Mr. Mayor,keeping in mind,
we know what the area is and we know what action and decision that
Mr. Acton must make. Mr. Korner has always come here in good faith and
I think he always will.
Mr. Korner, I will move to approve this with your guarantee Sir, that
you will endeavor to the best of your ability to acquire some parking
in the area in the immediate vicinity if humanly possible. I just ask
that you make every attempt Sir.
Mr.Korner: Mr. Commissioner, I will make and continue to make attempt.
I should tell you that we have contacted everybody within the radius
of 300'. We will now attempt to contact people slightly more distant
than that.
Mr. Plummer: Ali right Sir, we can't ask any more than that.
Mayor Ferre: Is there a second to the motion?
Rev. Gibson: I second the motion.
The following resolution was introduced by Mr. Plummer who moved
its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 73-584
A RESOLUTION GRANTING A VARIANCE FROM ORDINANCE NO.
6871, ARTICLE XXIII, SECTION 4 (27), TO PERMIT CON-
STRUCTION OF WAREHOUSE ON THE W 12.S' LOT 2 AND E
25' LOT 3, BLOCK 58N,, MIAMI (B-41), LOCATED AT 64
N. E. 7TH STREET, WAIVING 3 OF 3 REQUIRED OFF-STREET
PARKING SPACES, ZONED C-S (LIBERAL -COMMERCIAL)
DISTRICT
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here and on file
in the City Clerks Office)
Upon being seconded by Mr. Reboso, the resolution was passed
and adopted by the following vote - AYES: Messrs. Plummer, Reboso,
Mrs. Gordon, Reverend Gibson and Mayor Ferre. NOES: None
66 JUL 2 61973
22, ACCEPT COMPLETED CONSTRUCT ION -CORAL. WAY SOUTH HIGHWAY IMP, H-4354
The following resolution was introduced by Mr. Plummer who
moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 73-585
A RESOLUTION ACCEPTING THE COMPLETED CONSTRUCTION OF
MARKS BROTHERS COMPANY FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF CORAL
WAY SOUTH HIGHWAY IMPROVEMENT H-4354 IN CORAL WAY
SOUTH HIGHWAY IMPROVEMENT DISTP.ICT H-4354, AND AUTH-
ORIZING A FINAL PAYMENT OF $15,458.46
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here and on file
in the City Clerks Office)
Upon being seconded by.Mr. Reboso, the resolution was passed
and adopted by the following vote - AYES: Messrs. Plummer, Reboso,
Mrs. Gordon, Mayor Ferre, Rev. Gibson. NOES: None
No objectors appeared.
23, REVIEW OF CONDITIONAL USE - OFF-STREET PARKING BY EMPLOYEES OF
MLAMI BEACH AIR TRANSPORT
Mr. Plummer: Mr. Mayor, I think for the record because this has been
here God only knows how many times. I thin', it should be noted, the
recommendation and memo dated July 2Sth be.:ause at the last Commission
Meeting, this Commission imposed upon the applicant certain things that
they were to comply with or we would not look favorably.
I read from the last paragraph of this which states, "It is my recomm-
endation that the conditional use be extended for a period of one year
with a provision that the use of the property to the west of the garage
be brought into compliance with the requirement established at the time
the conditional use for that area was granted".
I just think that should be just for a matter of record.
Mr. Schiff, may I just proceed here Sir and ask you if you were aware
of this memo Sir?
Mr. Schiff: I knew there was a memo but I haven't had a chance to read
a copy of it.
Mr. Plummer: To the best of your ability, you have complied with
everything the city requested of'you?
Mr. Schiff: Yes Sir.
Mr. Plummer: Do you further stipulate the provision that the use of
the property to the west of the garage be brought into compliance
with the requirements established at the time. Will you endeavor to
do that Sir?
Mr. Schiff: Yes Sir.
Mr. Plummer: Well I just wanted that as a matter of record, so I
guess then Sir, you are here to tell us again that they haven't done
anything.
Mayor Ferre: All right, the chair recognizes you Sir, your name and
address for the record.
67 JUL 261973
• •
Mr. Little: T. J. Little, 4290 N. W. llth Straet. I have pictures
here to show different.
Mr. Plummer: We have bigger pictures.
Mr. Little: In fact one of the inspectors from the City of Miami
happened to be in my Florida Room this past week and saw some of the
conditions which are existing out there in the area that is not supposed
to be for, in fact he saw them take place and I also have some pictures
where the house that was supposed to have been kept for a buffer between
our property, I would like to show you srme pictures of the conditions
just with the buffer that Mr. Schiff pained a nice picture would be
for our benefit.
Mr. Plummer: Mr. Little, let me ask you Sir, in particular, what are
you objecting to that he did not comply with?
Mr. Little: This one thing here about this house that was put here
for the buffer between the area that they are using and also the
maintenance that is taking place with oil still being dumped on the
ground and you can go out there now and see it, under the fence, kills
the grass and this loud noise that we are woke up all night with this
washing of the buses, that pump running all night continuously.
Mr. Plummer: Sir, I am in receipt here of a picture and this picture
very clearly states that there is discoloration but it is not from
automotive activities.
Mr. Little: Well what is it? It's coming from that direction.
Mr. Plummer: I am only going on what is provided to me. Now if its
not from the automotive pollution, then really we can't hold Mr. Schiff
responsible.
Now what other thing do you have in question?
Mr. Little: This pump runn:.ng at night out there making loud noise
that is waking us up continuously.
Mr. Plummer: The washing machine.
Mr. Little: Right, with a big pump with a noise on it.
Mr. Plummer: Mr. Schiff, what have you to say to that Sir?
Mr. Schiff: Well now -
Mr. Plummer: I don't recall we put a stipulation on that, did we?
Mr. Schiff: Mr. Plummer, I don't go out there at night so I really
don't know what happens. The men are instructed in the interests of
being good neighbors as I think Canon Gibson suggested the last time
we were here, they haveLbeen instructed not to do any of this first
echelon maintenance work which includes washing, during the hours when
it would be disturbing to the neighbors. The only thing I can tell
you is that there is a crew there at the facilities a good part, I
guess all night and maybe some of them just don't follow orders and
I can assure the Commission we will endeavor to see that they do
follow orders. Those buses are sightseeing buses and they come in
back to the ramp at all hours of the night from runs to Disney World
and other places in the State of Florida and probably these people
do some washing but we will make every attempt to see to it that they
conform to our requirements.
Rev. Gibson: Is it at all possible that the company can conform
to the stipulations we wrote in? I remember my words, they are coming
back to haunt me.
Mr. Plummer: Father Gibson, I don't think so. You know, here that's
why I made a point of reading into the record and unless this record
is not correct, that they have complied and the only thing they had
asked them further to comply with is that the property west of the
garage be brought into compliance. Now this is from our people.
This is not from either side.
68 JUL MO 1973
•
Rev. Gibson: J. L. what I was about to say, in view of what the
observation you made from the letter, I would like to say to Mr. Schiff,
go back and tell your client exactly what the report said and we will
give them X-number of days to do it. Now I don't think we could ever
say we want to do certain things and then we try to understand, really
and I know that a Charter Bus, because our young people just went up to
Disney World and they were scheduled to be back at one time and it has
been really impossible to say you are going to knock off at 12 O'Clock
if the bus breaks down, you have all those children as was in our case
and I hope the one thing we in the City of Miami will do if nobody else
wants to do it, is to try to live reasonably so.
I don't want a. man's business to be knocked out and I still don't want
the homeowner not to be able to rest.
We want to have the best of 2 worlds. Sir, can we ask you to go and
say to your client, that look, knowing you as I do, I am sure you will
go and tell them but I hope you will understand what we are trying to
do.
Mrs. Little: May I say something please? This garage where they do
the maintenance work. The rear of the building is not zoned for
commercial use which they are using and I can't see that it would be
too much of a problem if they would use the front area for their
commercial use, for working on the buses and not running those buses.
This is the thing that I complain about. They crank one of the buses
and let it run for 30 minutes or maybe longer and if you have ever
followed a bus, you know how bad the fumes are and they come in our
house daily and this is the thing that I object to.
Rev. Gibson: Mr. Mayor, I would suggest we ask Mr. Schiff and our
staff people to get together and that within 60 days, is that reasonable?
The following resolution was introduced by Reverend Gibson who
moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 73-586
A RESOLUTION TO DEFER FOR A PERIOD OF 60 DAYS THE
MATTER OF EXTENDING A CONDITIONAL USE TO PERMIT
PARKING ON 4 LOTS ADJACENT TO A BUS GARAGE AND
STORAGE YARD AT 4250 N. W. 11TH STREET OPERATED
BY MIAMI BEACH AIR TRANSPORT;INC., IN ORDER TO
ENABLE THE APPLICANT, THE OBJECTORS, AND THE
PROPER OFFICIALS OF THE CITY ADMINISTRATION TO
ATTEMPT TO ARRIVE AT A SOLUTION TO THE PROBLEMS
POSED BY THE OBJECTORS
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here and on file
in the City Clerks Office)
Upon being seconded by Mr. Reboso, the resolution was passed and
adopted by the following vote - AYES: Messrs. Reboso, Plummer, Reverend
Gibson, Mrs. Gordon and Mayor Ferre. NOES: None
Mr. Reese: I will hold the Building Department responsible for calling
the meeting and carrying this outbecause they are the ones that made
the inspection.
Mr. Little: Will lire be notified on this please Sir?
Mr. Reese: Yes Sir, you will be part of it.
69 JUL 26197a
•
241 CONDITIONAL USE. .LISTS 1 .T U 5 8 16 THRU 2.0. BLOCK 22N1 MIAMI B-41
GREYHOUND BUS TERMINAL
The Mayor announced the Commission was now ready to consider
this application to permit construction of a Bus Terminal and inquired
if any objectors were present.
One person appeared.
Mr. Phillip Schiff representing Greyhound Lines appeared.
Mr. Schiff: I can state on behalf of my client, Greyhound Lines Inc.,
that we are agreeable to the, to all of the conditions set forth in
the unanimous recommendation of the Planning and Zoning Board and also
the conditions which were requested by the Planning Department with
which we met prior to the Planning Board's action and we would accept
the conditional use with all of those conditions.
Mayor Ferre: All right, the Planning & Zoning Board, 9 to 0-
Mr. Plummer: Wait a minute. Mr. Rompf is here and would like to be
heard Sir.
Mayor Ferre: Mr. Rompf, go ahead Sir.
Mr. Rompf: I have been down to the Planning F, Zoning a couple of times.
My name is George C. Rompf Jr., I do not feel that they have paid
sufficient attention to the parking situation. They haven't allowed
for enough parking because you are going to have to eliminate parking
on the south side ofi th street and probably on north & south side
of 9th St. in order to get these buses in and out. You are bringing
these big buses into an area where you have a pretty good traffic and
9th Street is bad on traffic because its narrow.
Mayor Ferre: Mr. Rompf which property do you own?
Mr. Rompf: The N. W. corner and the N. E. Corner of Block 19.
Mr. Plummer: Mr Acton, where Mr. Rompf is bringing the question up
about parking. Now, -
Mr. Acton: I believe I can answer. There was a meeting in the Planning
Department office on July 5, 1973 because the Department was very
concerned that the development of a Bus Terminal be in conformance
with proposed traffic plans for the entire downtown area and --in
attendance at that meeting were representatives of the Greyhound Company
Fla. Dept.of Transportation, Metro Transit Authority, Dade County Depart-
ment of Transportation, Wilbur Smith & Associates who are sub -consultants
to our downtown traffic consultant and members of the Planning Department
Staff. The entire project was reviewed, both in context of our current
downtown zoning study and also in the context of the multiple use study
that was performed by the Dade COunty Department of Planning some two
years ago.
All parties in attendance agreed that the Greyhound Terminal would be
approved as proposed by the plans which had been submitted providing
that they met the conditions that were imposed, which they have done.
Mr. Plummer: Mr. Acton, that's not the point that Mr. Rompf brought up.
Mr. Rompf brought up a point in question about not adequate parking
being provided.
Mr. Acton: That was reviewed. The reason I mentioned the various
departments of transportation is because both the off-street parking,
traffic flow, on -site parking, the entire circulation system and
traffic system of the downtown area were reviewed in the context of
this plan. In other words, we had all of the expertise possible
attending this meeting because we wanted to be very sure that this was
an appropriate location for the Greyhound Terminal and many of the
questions that could be raised were concerning off-street parking
and traffic circulation.
70
•
Rev. Gibson: Mr. Rompf, were you there when they were meeting?
Mr. Rompf: I wasn't advised of the meeting. I was at the Monday
Night meetings but was never advised of the daytime meeting.
Mr. Plummer: Well Mr. Rompf, you heard the testimony of the experts
Sir.
Mr. Rompf: I hear what the experts say but sometimes I wonder what
experts are.
Mr. Plummer: Would you like this Commission to go down and look at the
parcel. Do you think that would -
Mr. Rompf: I haven't heard anything about how they are going to handle
the traffic of their buses. They have to get back to the expressway
to get out of town. To do that, they are going down to loth Street
down to the Boulevard and come back up llth Street. There again, you
have a street to carry a good deal of traffic, llth Street. A great
many people use that to get over to first avenue to get on the expressway
but originally the Greyhound started out to acquire an entire block up
there. Now they are only talking about using 10 lots,which is entirely
inadequate. If you have been around this town as long as I have, you
have seen a,great many developments of big companies which turn out
to be inadequate within a very short time. All you have to do is to
look at the Greyhound Bus Station downtown. When they took the first
lease on that thing, it was not fully adequate property at that time
for what they were doing.
Now we are up against the sane thing. They are going to build a
relatively small station for the size of the bus traffic that they have
in this area now. What are they doing with that station 5 years from
now? I have seen this happen too many times in this City.
Rev. Gibson: Would it help if youwere able -:o talk with the experts
and the clients as you are talking with us, ir, view of the fact that
you didn't have an opportunity to talk with them and have some input?
Would it help?
At least you ought to try.
I tell you what. I am sure we need the bus terminal. There is no
question about that and the unfortunate thing is, I must also say that
not as many people travel in a bus as they did 15 years ago because
more people get on a plane and I share their concern, I wouldn't want
to overbuild but at the same time, you '.ought to have adequate
preparations. You would help us if you would talk to these people and
see if you can't have a meeting of the minds, even if they might get
more property or some such arrangements and come back.
Mr. Rompf: Well I was interested in them getting more property there
in order to make the thing adequate.
Mr. Schiff: And Mr. Rompf, I might point out represents that "more
property" that he is interested in.
Unintelligible conversation
Mr. Schiff: Canon Gibson, Mr. Rompf is a fine gentleman but I do not
know him as an expert. These things, believe me, we were taken over
the hurdles at the meeting that George Acton told you about and we had
Mr. Dobbins who is here today who heads the property section,of
Greyhound in Cleveland. He was there. The architect who is here today,
he was at that meeting. We met, there were so many experts at the
meeting that I don't think there was anybody left in any office
concerning traffic and transportation. They were all at that meeting.
That conference room of Mr. Acton's was jammed. You couldn't find a
seat there and all of the experts tossed these things at us, they took
us over the coals and they were convinced and now Mr.Rompf, who by the
way is, I'll give him credit for persistence, he is a voice in the
wilderness, everybody else in the area agreed that this layout which
is projected and what Greyhound proposes to build there is going to
be something that is going to revitalize that neighborhood which I
think is an important thing. That is a run-down neighborhood. Now as
to time,generally speaking, when I represent clients, I always counsel
them for goodness sake to take all the time that anybody wants in order
71
to get everybody satisfied if you can. In this instance, we must as
quickly as possible get into our working drawings for ther construction
of that facility because our lease at the present facility expires in
August 1974 and we must respectfully request that the Commissiaianot
defer.this beyond today but act on it, and act on it affirmatively
because otherwise we are going to be out of the Downtown Bus Terminal
and Lord knows where.
Mayor Ferre: I think we have heard both sides now and I think its time
for ''the Commission to make its decision so, the chair is now open for
a motion, one way or the other.
Rev. Gibson: I want to ask this question. I am not trying to evade
the issue. Mr. Schiff, we don't have another meeting until September.
I know how difficult it is for a man who owns property to even endure
some things and I am a firm believer that we cannot live in 1973 as we
did in 1900, it just isn't going to work.
Sir, I ask you this. Would it inconvenience you beyond reason if you
were able to sit down with this gentleman with the experts and sell
him on this.
Mr. Schiff: Let me put it this way. We are talking about August and
a portion of September.
We had hoped, I was talking to Mr. Marion over here who is the architect,
and asked him when he would be able to complete the working drawings
and pull the permits and get going on the thing, and he said hopefully
by the first of the year IF we get some action on this thing today.
Now, I don't know what in the world that is going to do to our operation
Canon Gibson.
Mayor Ferre: I'll state my opinion. I think that this is a matter
which should be -resolved today, one way or the other because I think
that putting it off till September is just going to bring it back here
in the very same way and we have the very same questions and will have
the very same decision that we have to make now. This matter has been
deliberated on. It's been taken to the Planning Department, the Planning
Department has ruled on it. The Planning & Zoning Board has moved on it.
The Downtown Development Authority has taken a position on it.
I think we have heard the objections. I think they have merit. We have
proponents. He has expressed his opinion and I think it is not going
to change in the next 45 days and is just a matter of what this Commission
wants to do. I think we have to take a position on it right now.
Mr. Plummer: I don't dispute everything you said, its true but I think
also Mr. Schiff made it very clear that its not clear to Mr. Rompf.
Now, Iam not saying that Mr. Schiff should change his mind. I know
both of these gentlemen personally and I think they are both men of their
convictions but still, what I am saying is, I think Mr. Rompf should
have the opportunity to see what exactly the plan is and see the reasons
behind the recommendations.
Mr. Acton: For your consideration, this is first reading.
Mr. Southern, City Clerk: Mr. Mayor, this is a resolution.
Mayor Ferre: This is a conditional use.
Rev. Gibson: Let me say Mr. Schiff, I may find it easier to live if you
meet with this man.
Mr. Plummer: Mr. Schiff $ Mr. Rompf. We are going to be here at least
another 3 hours. Is it possible that the 2 of you could sit down and
after you have had it fully explained to you Sir, you put your input
to it and come back about 5:30 or 6 O'Clock and let the Commission then
decide?
Rev. Gibson: I move to defer to 5:30, that they may have a conference.
By unanimous vote of the Commission, the matter was deferred to
later in this meeting.
72 JUL 2 619
•
25, CONDITIONAL USE - HALL TRACT --TENTATIVE PLAT #873 LOCATED AT
200 S. E. 2ND AVENUE, ZONED C-3
No objectors appeared.
The following resolution was introduced by Mr. Plummer who moved
its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 73-587
A RESOLUTION GRANTING A "CONDITIONAL USE" AS PROVIDED
IN ORDINANCE NO. 6871, ARTICLE XV, SECTION 2(8) (a),
TO PERMIT 7-LEVEL PARKING STRUCTURE IN CONJUNCTION
WITH HOWARD JOHNSON'S MOTOR LODGE $ RESTAURANT ON
"HALL TRACT" - TENTATIVE PLAT #873, LOCATED AT 200 S.E.
2ND AVENUE, ZONED C-3 (CENTRAL COMMERCIAL) DISTRICT
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here and on file
in the City Clerks Office)
Upon being seconded by Mr. Reboso, the resolution was passed and
adopted by the following vote - AYES: Messrs. Plummer, Reboso, Mrs.
Gordon, Reverend Gibson and Mayor Ferre. NOES: None
26, VARIANCE - UNPLATTED PROPERTY- 1764 S. W. 3RD AVENUE
The following resolution was introduced by Mr. Plummer who
moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 73-588
A RESOLUTION GRANTING A VARIANCE FROM ORDINANCE NO
6871, ARTICLE IV, SECTION 9(1), TO PERMIT CONSTRUCTION
OF ADDITION TO EXISTING STORE BUILDING ON UNPLATTED
PROPERTY, LOCATED AT 1764 S. W. 3RD AVENUE, WAIVING
PLATTING REQUIREMENT; ZONED C-1 (LOCAL COMMERCIAL)
DISTRICT
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here and on file
in the City Clerks Office)
Upon being seconded by Mr. Reboso, the resolution was passed
and adopted by the following vote - AYES: Messrs. Plummer, Reboso,
Mrs. Gordon, Reverend Gibson and Mayor Ferre. NOES: None
73 JUL 261973
Alk
27, CONDITIONAL USE - 1.OTS 26, 27, BLOCK 2, NEW HAVEN (6-184)
No objectors appeared.
The following resolution was introduced by Mr. Plummer who moved
its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 73-589
A RESOLUTION GRANTING A "CONDITIONAL USE", AS PROVIDED
IN ORDINANCE NO. 6871, ARTICLE V, SECTION 1 (6) (f),
TO PERMIT CONSTRUCTION OF ADDITION TO UNIT IN REAR OF
PROPERTY ON LOTS 26 AND 27, BLOCK 2, NEW HAVEN (6-184)
LOCATED AT 2329 N. W. 34TH STREET, BEING A NON -CONFORM-
ING THIRD UNIT; ZONED R-2 (TWO-FAMILY) DISTRICT
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here and on filc
in the City Clerks Office)
Upon being seconded by Mr. Reboso, the resolution was passed
and adopted by the following vote - AYES: Messrs. Plummer,Reboso,
Mrs. Gordon, Reverend Gibson and Mayor Ferre. NOES: None
28, CONDITIONAL USE - LOTS 13,14, BLOCK 2, MELROSE HEIGHTS (11-17)
Mr. Roger Garcia, applicant appeared.
No objectors appeared.
The following resolution was introduced by Mr. Plummer who moved
its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 73-590
A RESOLUTION GRANTING A " CONDITIONAL USE", AS PROVIDED
IN ORDINANCE NO. 6871, ARTICLE XVI, SECTION 1 (37) (a),
TO PERMIT AUTO PAINT SHOP ON LOTS 13 AND 14, BLOCK 2,
MELROSE HEIGHTS (11-17), LOCATED AT 2530 N. W. 36TH
STREET, SUBJECT TO APPROVAL OF THE SITE PLAN BY THE
PLANNING DEPARTMENT, ZONED C-4 (GENERAL COMMERCIAL)
DISTRICT
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here and on file
in the City Clerks Office)
Upon being seconded by Mr. Reboso, the resolution was passed and
adopted by the following vote - AYES: Messrs. Plummer, Reboso, Mrs.
Gordon, Reverend Gibson and Mayor Ferre. NOES: None
74 JUL 261973
•
29, PERSONAL APPEARANCE - W. D. TOLBERT. URBAN AGENT
SUBJ: CHILD DAY CARE CENTERS
Mr. Tolbert: I am W. D. Tolbert, Urban Agent, Florida International
University. I guess that word means to help bring University and
agencies to help make the quality of life better in the county & city.
You have before you a draft proposal in which we are looking at
development of a model day care center. We think it's model because
it has features proposed that no other center has in the country.
we think it's unique because of the tremendous need that is existing.
Many of our day care centers kind of do little more than a kind of a
baby-sitting action. We want to move from that type of thing to a more
dynamic -educational program: We think a couple of unique things about
it is that the cooperating agencies and institutions have worked on
this, for example, we are looking at young people coming into the center
who may have development or disabilities. The Mailman Center of
the University of Miami would be involved in trying to identify these
people and trying to provide services not only to the young person but
to help the family adjust to that situation. We are also looking at
this tremendously highly populated area composed of over 2,000 young
people. This also would give both the City F, County an opportunity to
become involved in a joint effort whereby we can work on a program in
which we can provide these kind of services.
Unique in this proposal, I would like to say is, we are talking
about a center operating from 7 in the morning to 9 at night, 6 days
a week as opposed to a center opening at 7 and closing at 5.
Mayor Ferre: Mr. Tolbert, in the interest of time, I think Father
Gibson has a motion which I think is going to be an appropriate motion
and I will recognize him.
Rev. Gibson: I am familiar with what is being said about this project
and I know Mr. Tolbert. I want to take the same kind of position here
that I have taken in the past.
We do have a Day -Care Committee, a Task force committee. We are not
opposed to what you are doing but, I have always held to the position
that if we don't need that citizens committee, we ought to get rid of
them. I suggest Sir, that you get in touch with the committee and make
your presentation to them. They will be back apronto and bring the
matter to us.
Mayor Ferre: The chairman is right here with us today.
Mr. Tolbert: Yes, we have talked and I understand as I attended her last
meeting and they are going to make a recommendation. The kind of things
I understood her to explain, there is and we probably
could work our notice in previous occasion of people getting together.
I see no reason why we couldn't get together.
Mayor Ferre: Mr. Tolbert, I understand the cost you are recommending
on this is $246,250 to fund this program. I read in the paper and I
understand Mr. Reese that we have recently gotten $134,000-
Mr. Reese: No, we won't get that until the new revenue sharing in
73-74.
Mayor Ferre: In other words, that will be effective in October won't it?
Mr. Reese: No Sir.
Mayor Ferre: 73-74?
Mr. Reese: Yes, that will come in after January. This is based on the
new formula that you are going to use.
Mayor Ferre: I see.
Mrs. Gordon: I second your motion Father Gibson which was refer this
to the task force committee.
The matter was unanimously referred to the Task Force Committee
of Day Care Centers and the Revenue Sharing Committee.
75 JUL 2 61973
•
30. REVIEW OF CONDITIONAL USE - MECHANICALLY OPERATED PARKING STRUCTURE
BISCAYNE BOULEVARD AT 3RD STREET
Mayor Ferre announced he would abstain on this item and left the
Commission chambers.
Mr. Plummer: Mr. Vice -Mayor, I think we should read into the record,
the recommendation of the City Manager:
RECOMMENDATION:
In view of the fact that this parking lot is part of the
front door of Miami and the whole area is being up-
graded by private industry and by the construction of
the downtown buildings for the Miami -Dade Community
College Campus the following recommendations for
continued use of this parking lot for one (1) more
year are:
(a) Plant the required additional hedges to
present a continuous, solid, unbroken
visual screen for a height of at least
two and one-half (2 1/2') feet.
(b) Install and anchor precast concrete
wheel stops for every parking space
that abuts landscaped areas.
(c) Install 6" curbing around landscaped
areas that abut parking lot and
driveways.
(d) Remove vending machine.
(e) Re-evaluate existing unsightly sign.
(f) Submit report on parking area lighting
as notified on July 9, 1973.
(g) All the above to be accomplished in
thirty (30) days.
REF:GEL:jb
Enclosures - 2 Pictures
cc: Building Director
Zoning Inspection
Reading File
Planning Board
Also as part of the record, we have been supplied photographs which I
think you should see of the area that is in question and if you want
Sir, you an refute, rebutt or let me make the motion and that is that
we give you the 30 days to comply with these things set forth in the
Manager's memorandum and that we re -hear this in 30 days to see if you
have complied. If you don't comply in 30 days and as I•recall most/
of this was asked for then. I am not arguing, I didn't see it.
If I don't have a report back that he has complied, I will vote to
withdraw the conditional use. If he complies, I will vote to give him
another year extension.
76
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1
a
Mr. Vice Mayor, I will move that these things be complied with.
That is in the form of a motion. I will be more than happy to give
this to Counsel so that he can point by point, make sure that each
and every one of these things are complied with and I would assume
Mr. Andrews that our Building Department will be the judge as to
whether he has complied.
Mrs. Gordon: J. L. wouldn't it be better to defer this until then?
Mr. Plummer: That is exactly what I am doing.
Rev. Gibson: You understand what is happening. You are in accord?
Any further discussion?
Upon unanimous vote of the Commission, the matter was then
deferred for a period of 30 days.
31, ACCEPT COMPLETED WORK - FENCING FOR FIRE STATIONS
The following resolution was introduced by Mr. Plummer who
moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 73-591
A RESOLUTION ACCEPTING THE COMPLETED WORK PERFORMED
BY FENCE MASTERS, INC., AT A TOTAL COST OF $6,058.60,
AND AUTHORIZING A FINAL PAYMENT OF $605.86 FOR THE
FIRE STATIONS - FENCING - 1973
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here and on file
in the City Clerk's Office)
Upon being seconded by Mrs. Gordon, the resolution was passed
and adopted by the following vote - AYES: Messrs. Plummer, Reboso,
Mrs. Gordon, Reverend Gibson. ABSENT: Mayor Ferre.
32, ACCEPT COMPLETED WORK - SOUTHERN DRAINAGE PROJECT E-27
The following resolution was introduced by Mr. Plummer, who
moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 73-592
A RESOLUTION ACCEPTING THE COMPLETED WORK PERFORMED
BY HOLLAND PAVING CO., INC. AT A TOTAL COST OF
$194,968.50; AND AUTHORIZING A FINAL PAYMENT OF
$20,000.40 FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF SOUTHERN DRAINAGE.
PROJECT E-27
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here and on
file in the City Clerks Office)
Upon being seconded by Mrs. Gordon, the resolution was passed
and adopted by the following vote - AYES: Messrs. Plummer, Reboso,
Mrs. Gordon, Reverend Gibson ABSENT: Mayor Ferre.
77 JUL 2619
1
4
33, ACCEPT COMPLETED WORK- N. N. 17 AVENUE T.V. INSPECTION AND
REPAIR PROJECT - 1973
The following resolution was introduced by Mrs. Gordon who
moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 73-593
A RESOLUTION ACCEPTING THE COMPLETED WORK PERFORMED
BY FITZGERALD ENGINEERING CO., INC. AT A TOTAL COST
OF $4,380.75, AND AUTHORIZING A FINAL PAYMENT OF
$438.08 FOR THE N. W. 17 AVENUE T. V. INSPECTION
AND REPAIR PROJECT - 1973
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here and on file
in the City Clerks Office)
Upon being seconded by Mr. Plummer, the resolution was passed
and adopted by the following vote - AYES: Messrs. Plummer, Reboso,
Mrs. Gordon and Reverend Gibson. ABSENT: Mayor Ferre.
34. ACCEPT PLAT - ELDA GARDENS SUBDIVISION
The following resolution was introduced by Mr. Plummer who
moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 73-594
A RESOLUTION ACCEPTING THE PLAT ENTITLED ELDA GARDENS
SUBDIVISION, A SUBDIVISION IN THE CITY OF MIAMI, FLO-
RIDA; AND ACCEPTING THE DEDICATIONS SHOWN ON SAID
PLAT; AND ACCEPTING A COVENANT TO RUN WITH THE LAND
POSTPONING THE IMMEDIATE CONSTRUCTION OF FULL WIDTH
PAVEMENT; CURB.,AND GUTTER; AND AUTHORIZING AND DIRECT-
ING THE CITY MANAGER AND CITY CLERK TO EXECUTE THE
PLAT
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here and on
file in the City Clerks Office)
Upon being seconded by Mr. Reboso, the resolution was passed
and adopted by the following vote - AYES: Messrs. Plummer, Reboso,
Mrs. Gordon and Reverend Gibson. ABSENT: Mayor Ferre.
78 JUL 261973
• •
35, DISCLAIMER AGREEMENT TO _METROPOLITAN DADE COUNTY
The following resolution was introduced by Mr. Reboso who
moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 73-595
A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING AND DIRECTING THE CITY MAN-
AGER AND CITY CLERK TO EXECUTE AND DELIVER TO
METROPOLITAN DADE COUNTY, FLORIDA, A DISCLAIMER AGREE-
MENT FOR THE PROPERTY DESCRIBED HEREIN
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here and
on file in the City Clerks Office)
Upon being seconded by Mr. Plummer, the resolution was passed
and adopted by the following vote - AYES: Messrs. Plummer, Reboso,
Mrs. Gordon, Reverend Gibson. ABSENT: Mayor Ferre.
36, ACCEPT COVENANT - ALLEN R.GREENWALD AND JILL F. GREENWALD
The following resolution was introduced by Mr. Plummer who
moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 73-596
A RESOLUTION ACCEPTING FROM ALLEN R. GREENWALD AND
JILL F. GREENWALD, HIS WIFE, A COVENANT TO RUN WITH
THE LAND DATED JUNE 7, 1973, RELATING TO A BUILDING
ENCROACHMENT IN THE DEDICATED STREET RIGHT OF WAY
AT THE SOUTHEAST CORNER OF N. E. 24 STREET AND 7TH
AVENUE AND DIRECTING THAT SAID COVENANT BE RECORDED
IN THE PUBLIC RECORDS OF DADE COUNTY
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here and on
file in the City Clerks Office)
Upon being seconded by Mr. Reboso, the resolution was passed and
adopted by the following vote - AYES: Messrs. Plummer, Reboso, Mrs.
Gordon, Reverend Gibson. ABSENT: Mayor Ferre.
79
411
37. NAME BICYCLE PATH - SIEGENDORF BICYCLE PATH
The following resolution was introduced by Mrs. Gordon who
moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 7 3- 5 9 7
A RESOLUTION OF THE COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF MIAMI
NAMING THE BICYCLE PATH THROUGH COCONUT GROVE TO THE
RICKENBACKER CAUSEWAY THE SIEGENDORF BICYCLE PATH
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here and on
file in the City Clerks Office)
Upon being seconded by Mr. Reboso, the resolution was passed
and adopted by the following vote - AYES: Messrs. Plummer, Reboso,
Mrs. Gordon and Reverend Gibson. ABSENT: Mayor Ferre.
38, ACCEPT STATE GRANT - SIEGENDORF BICYCLE PATH
The following resolution was introduced by Mrs.Gordon, who
moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 73-598
A RESOLUTION ACCEPTING A $23,645 STATE GRANT FOR
THE CONSTRUCTION OF SIEGENDORF BICYCLE PATH;
AUTHORIZING AND DIRECTING THE CITY MANAGER TO
ENTER INTO A CONTRACT AND AGREEMENT WITH THE
STATE OF FLORIDA FOR THE SIEGENDORF BICYCLE PATH;
AND ALLOCATING $26,482 FROM THE CAPITAL IMPROVE-
MENT FUND - UNALLOCATED FUND ACCOUNT
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here and on file
in the City Clerks Office)
Upon being seconded by Mr. Reboso, the resolution was passed and
adopted by the following vote - AYES: Messrs. Plummer, Reboso, Mrs.
Gordon and Reverend Gibson. ABSENT: Mayor Ferre.
80 JUL 26197
•
40
39, ACCEPT HIGHWAY RIGHT OF WAY DEED - LEO & PHYLLIS LA ROSE
The following resolution was introduced by Mr. Plummer who
moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 73-599
A RESOLUTION ACCEPTING THE HIGHWAY RIGHT OF WAY DEED
EXECUTED BY LEO PAUL LA ROSE AND PHYLLIS LA ROSE, HIS
WIFE, CONVEYING FOR HIGHWAY WIDENING A STRIP OF LAND
ALONG N. W. 30 STREET EAST OF N. W. 21 AVENUE; AND
DIRECTING THE PROPER OFFICIAL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI TO
RECORD SAID DEED IN THE PUBLIC RECORDS OF DADE COUNTY
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here and on
file in the City Clerks Office)
Upon being seconded by Mrs, Gordon, the resolution was passed
and adopted by the following vote - AYES: Messrs. Plummer, Reboso,
Mrs. Gordon and Reverend Gibson. ABSENT: Mayor Ferre.
40, ALLOCATE $25.000 - APPRAISAL SERVICES - PARKS FOR PEOPLE BOND PROGRAM
The following resolution was introduced by Mr. Plummer who
moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 73-600
A RESOLUTION ALLOCATING $25,000.00 FROM THE 1972 PARKS
AND RECREATIONAL FACILITIES BOND FUND TO COVER THE COST
OF APPRAISAL SERVICES AND OTHER INCIDENTAL EXPENSES FOR
THE ACQUISITION OF PROPERTIES UNDER THE PARKS FOR PEOPLE
BOND PROGRAM
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here and on file
in the City Clerks Office)
Upon being seconded by Mr. Reboso, the resolution was passed
and adopted by the following vote - AYES: Messrs. Plummer, Reboso,
Mrs. Gordon and Reverend Gibson. ABSENT: Mayor Ferre.
81
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41, FEE SIMPLE TITLE- DALLAS PARK
The following resolution was introduced by Mr. Plummer who
moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 73-601
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF
MIAMI, DETERMINING AND FINDING THE NECESSITY FOR A
PUBLIC PURPOSE IN ORDER TO PROVIDE FOR ADDITIONAL
PARK FACILITIES FOR THE CREATION OF FORT DALLAS PARK
TO ACQUIRE BY CONDEMNATION OR OTHERWISE THE FEE
SIMPLE TITLE TO UERTAIN LANDS DESIGNATED HEREIN AND
DIRECTING THE DEPARTMENT OF LAW OF THE CITY OF MIAMI
TO INSTITUTE AND PROSECUTE TO A CONCLUSION ALL OF
THE NECESSARY LEGAL ACTIONS TO ACQUIRE THE FEE SIMPLE
TITLE TO THIS PROPERTY AS SOON AS IT IS LEGALLY
POSSIBLE, INCLUDING THE FILING OF THE DECLARATION OF
TAKING AND THE POSTING OF THE NECESSARY BOND
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here and on file
in the City Clerks Office)
Upon being seconded by Mr. Reboso, the resolution was passed and
adopted by the following vote - AYES: Messrs. Plummer, Reboso, Mrs.
Gordon and Reverend Gibson. ABSENT: Mayor Ferre.
42, FEE SIMPLE TITLE - EATON PARK
The following resolution was introduced by Mrs. Gordon who
moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 73-602
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF
MIAMI, DETERMING AND FINDING THE NECESSITY FOR A'
PUBLIC PURPOSE IN ORDER TO PROVIDE FOR ADDITIONAL
PARK FACILITIES FOR THE EXPANSION OF EATON PARK TO
ACQUIRE BY CONDEMNATION OR OTHERWISE THE FEE SIMPLE
TITLE TO CERTAIN LANDS DESIGNATED HEREIN AND DIRECT-
ING THE DEPARTMENT OF LAW OF THE CITY OF MIAMI TO
INSTITUTE AND PROSECUTE TO A CONCLUSION ALL OF THE
NECESSARY LEGAL ACTIONS TO ACQUIRE THE FEE SIMPLE
TITLE TO THIS PROPERTY AS SOON AS IT IS LEGALLY
POSSIBLE, INCLUDING THE FILING OF THE DECLARATION
OF TAKING AND THE POSTING OF THE NECESSARY BOND
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here and on
file in the City Clerks Office)
Upon being seconded by Mr. Plummer, the resolution was passed
and adopted by the following vote - AYES: Messrs. Plummer, Reboso,
Mrs. Gordon and Reverend Gibson. ABSENT: Mayor Ferre.
82
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43, DUPLICATE TAX CERTIFICATE - MARGUERITE LEWIN
The following resolution was introduced by Mr. Plummer who
moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 73-603
A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING AND DIRECTING THE DIRECTOR
OF FINANCE TO ISSUE DUPLICATE TAX CERTIFICATE TO
MARGUERITE LEWIN;, EXECUTRIX OF THE ESTATE OF MICHAEL•
LEWIN, UPON FILING OF BOND IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE
LAW AGAINST ANY LOSS THAT MIGHT OCCUR BY REASON OF
THE REAPPEARANCE OF THE ORIGINAL CERTIFICATE
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here and on
file in the City Clerks Office)
Upon being seconded by Mr. Reboso, the resolution was passed
and adopted by the following vote - AYES: Messrs. Plummer, Reboso,
Mrs. Gordon and Reverend Gibson. ABSENT: Mayor Ferre.
44, EXTENSION OF EMPLOYMENT - PIO ZUCLICIL WA CHMAN DEPT OF YACHT & DOCKS
The following resolution was introduced by Mr. Plummer who
moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 73-604
A RESOLUTION APPROVING A ONE (1) YEAR ESTENSION OF
EMPLOYMENT PAST THE AGE OF 72 FOR PIO ZUCHLICH, WATCHMAN
DEPARTMENT OF YACHT DOCKS, EFFECTIVE MAY 2b, 1973
WITH THE PROVISION THAT IN THE EVENT OF A ROLLBACK
MR. ZUCLICH, RATHER THAN A JUNIOR EMPLOYEE, WOULD BE
AFFECTED
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here and on file
in the City Clerks Office)
Upon being seconded by Mrs. Gordon, the resolution was passed
and adopted by the following vote - AYES: Messrs. Plummer, Reboso,
Mrs. Gordon and Reverend Gibson. ABSENT: Mayor Ferre.
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45, FEDERAL GRANT APPLICATION - "MANAGEMENT DEVELOPMENIT PROGRAM"
The following resolution was introduced by Mr. Plummer who
moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 73-605
A RESOLUTION CONFIRMING THE ACTION TAKEN BY THE CITY
MANAGER IN THE SUBMISSION OF A FEDERAL GRANT APPLIC-
ATION TO THE DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE LAW ENFORCEMENT
ADMINISTRATION TO INITIATE A PROJECT ENTITLED
"MANAGEMENT DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM" AND FURTHER AUTHOR-
IZING THE CITY MANAGER TO ACCEPT THE GRANT AND TO
EXECUTE CONTRACTS
AND AGREEMENTS NECESSARY TO IMPLEMENT THE PROJECT
UPON RECEIPT OF THE GRANT
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here and on file
in the City Clerks Office)
Upon being seconded by Mr. Reboso, the resolution was passed
and adopted by the following vote - AYES: Messrs. Plummer, Reboso,
Mrs. Gordon and Reverend Gibson. ABSENT: Mayor Ferre.
46, AUTII RECEIVE BIDS FOR ASPHALT WALKWAYS & LIGHTING DINNER KEY AREA
The following resolution was introduced by Mr. Plummer who
moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 73-606
A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO RECEIVE
BIDS FOR THE INSTALLATION OF ASPHALT WALKWAYS AND
SEPARATE BIDS FOR THE INSTALLATION OF WALKWAY LIGHTING
FOR THE PROPERTY ACQUIRED AS A PART OF THE DINNER KEY
PLAN ADJACENT TO SOUTH BAYSHORE DRIVE; AND FURTHER
EXPRESSING THE INTENT OF THE CITY COMMISSION TO APP-
ROPRIATE THE NECESSARY FUNDS FROM THE CAPITAL IMPROVE-
MENT FUND - UNALLOCATED FUNDS AFTER BIDS HAVE BEEN
RECEIVED
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here and on file
in the City Clerks Office)
Upon being seconded by Mr. Reboso, the resolution was passed
and adopted by the following vote - AYES: Messrs. Plummer, Reboso,
Mrs. Gordon and Reverend Gibson. ABSENT: Mayor Ferre.
84
•
47, CONSULTING SERVICES-REDESL&N OF SOUND SYSTEM AT MARINE STADIUM
The following resolution was introduced by Mr. Plummer who
moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 73-607
A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EMPLOY
THE FIRM OF BOLT BERANEK AND NEWMAN, INC. FOR PRE-
LIMINARY CONSULTING SERVICES FOR THE REDESIGN OF
THE SOUND AMPLIFICATION SYSTEM FOR THE MARINE STADIUM
FURTHER PROVIDING THAT THE COST OF SAID PRELIMINARY
STUDY IS NOT TO EXCEED $750, AND ALLOCATING THE
NECESSARY FUNDS FROM CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT FUND -
UNALLOCATED FUNDS TO COVER THE COST OF SAID CONSULTING
SERVICES
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here and on file
in the City Clerks Office)
Upon being seconded by Mr. Reboso, the resolution was passed
and adopted by the following vote - AYES: Messrs. Plummer, Reboso,
Mrs. Gordon and Reverend Gibson. ABSENT: Mayor Ferre.
48, EXTENSION OF EMPLOYMENT - CITIARLES I. BERRY PUBLICITY DEPARTMENT
The following resolution was introduced by Mr. Plummer who
moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 73-608
A RESOLUTION APPROVING A SIX-MONTH EXTENSION OF
EMPLOYMENT PAST THE AGE OF 75 FOR CHARLES I. BERRY,
CUSTODIAN I, PUBLICITY AND TOURISM DEPARTMENT,
EFFECTIVE JUNE 17, 1973 TO DECEMBER 17, 1973,
WITH THE PROVISION THAT IN THE EVENT OF A ROLLBACK
OR LAYOFF, MR. BERRY, RATHER THAN A JUNIOR EMPLOYEE
WOULD BE AFFECTED
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here and on file
in the City Clerks Office)
Upon being seconded by Mr. Reboso, the resolution was passed
and adopted by the following vote - AYES: Messrs. Plummer, Reboso,
Mrs. Gordon and Reverend Gibson. ABSENT: Mayor Ferre.
85
49, BOXING & WRESTLING BOARD TRAVEL TO WORLD BOXING ASBI+L MEETING
Mr. Plummer: We requested them to supply us with the cost involved.
I have seen it, I think its fair and reasonable and I will move it.
Mrs. Gordon: You have seen it, I haven't.
Mr. Plummer: Its in your boob, for Mr. Demos and Mr. Dykes to
travel to the world boxing association.
Two delegates to be the representative of the City of Miami to the
World Boxing Association.
Mr. Reboso: Second.
The following resolution was introduced by Mr. Plummer who moved
its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 73-609
A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING AND DIRECTING THE PROPER
OFFICIALS OF THE CITY OF MIAMI TO MAKE AVAILABLE FUNDS
IN THE AMOUNT OF $1,030.00 FOR THE PURPOSE OF ENABLING
JAMES DEMOS AND BOBBY DYKES TO ATTEND THE WORLD BOXING
ASSOCIATION CONVENTION TO BE HELD IN CARACAS, VENEZUELA
FOR A FIVE DAY PERIOD
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here and on file
in the City Clerks Office)
Upon being seconded by Mr. Reboso, the resolution was passed and
adopted by the following vote - AYES: Messrs. Plummer, Reboso, Mrs.
Gordon and Reverend Gibson. ABSENT:. Mayor Ferre.
NOTE: Mayor Ferre re-entered the meeting at this time.
50, ALLOCATE $21,000-FROM PUBLIC PARK.& RECREATIONAL FACILITIES BOND
FUNDS TO COMPENSATE EDWARD D. STONE &SOCIATES
The following resolution was introduced by Mr. Plummer who
moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 73-610
A RESOLUTION ALLOCATING $21,000 FROM PUBLIC PARK AND
RECREATIONAL FACILITIES BOND FUNDS TO COMPENSATE
EDWARD D. STONE., JR., AND ASSOCIATES FOR THE DEVEL-
OPMENT OF A MASTER USE PLAN FOR WATSON ISLAND, AS
PROVIDED THROUGH RESOLUTION NO. 72-653; AND FURTHER
AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO COMPENSATE SAID
CONSULTING FIRM FOR THE WORK ACCOMPLISHED
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here and on
file in the City Clerks Office)
Upon being seconded by Mr. Reboso, the resolution was passed
and adopted by the following vote - AYES: Messrs. Plummer, Reboso,
Mrs,. Gordgnt Reverend Gibson. ABSENT ON ROLL CALL: Mayor Ferre.
86 JUL 26197
51, SPECIAL CHARGE ACCOUNTS - HOTELS & MOTELS IN AREA of LE JfuNE GOLF COUR=
Mr. Plummer: I don't know of anywhere else in the City that we have
charge accounts, am I mistaken or not?
Mr. Andrews: No.
Mr. Plummer: You. are getting into a field where you are discussing
charge accounts.
Mr. Andrews: Not in the sense of a charge account in that the total
billing comes from one agent, such as a hotel or motel -
Mr. Plummer: I don't care Mr. Andrews. I have delved in estates and
probates and things of that nature. Now, what I am saying is this.
I have no objections to this proposal. I think its well in accord but
I am saying that I would expect and demand of the administration that
sufficient deposits be secured so that at no time we have to go to
Court to collect our money. I am raising that question that if a
deposit is there in sufficient size which would be determined by the
administration, that if they don't pay us on the 30 days, we take it
out of their deposit and we cancel their charge account.
Mr. Andrews: Deposit or how about bonding?
Mr. Plummer: No, I want a deposit. A bond can go to Court and be tied
up. A deposit is good old cold cash and if they don't pay the bill, we
take it out of the bank account and we refund the difference to them and
we cancel their charge account.
Mrs. Gordon: A point of information. Does it cost us any more to do
it on a billing basis or on a cash basis, of course is cheaper-
•
Mr. Andrews: No, in many respects, its less costly because you might
be dealing with a block of 50 people that you would account for and
then receive billing for the S0 rather than having individual accounts.
Mr. Plummer: Mr. Mayor, I will move Item 50 with the proviso that
the administration demand in advance, deposits of suitable size to
more than adequately cover the charge accounts contemplated for those
persons applying for this privelege.
The following resolution was introduced by Mr. Plummer who
moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 73-611
A RESOLUTION APPROVING IN PRINCIPLE THE ESTABLISHMENT
OF SPECIAL CHARGE ACCOUNTS FOR HOTELS AND MOTELS IN
THE MIAMI AREA FOR LE JEUNE GOLF COURSE AND MIAMI
SPRINGS GOLF COURSE GREENS FEES, AND AUTHORIZING THE
CITY MANAGER TO DEVELOP FORMAL AGREEMENTS BETWEEN
SAID HOTELS AND MOTELS TO SET CRITERIA FOR THE ACCO-
UNTING AND PAYMENT PROCEDURES; AND TO SUBMIT THE
AGREEMENTS TO THE CITY COMMISSION FOR APPROVAL;
SUBJECT FURTHER TO A CONDITION THAT ADVANCE DEPOSITS
OF SUITABLE SIZE TO ADEQUATELY COVER THE CHARGE ACCOUNTS
BE REQUIRED FOR.THOSE PERSONS OR ORGANIZATIONS APP-
LYING FOR SAID PRIVELEGE
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here and on
file in the City Clerks Office)
87 JUL 26197
Upon being seconded by Mr. Reboso, the resolution was passed
and adopted by the following vote - AYES: Messrs. Plummer, Reboso,
Mrs. Gordon, Reverend Gibson and Mayor Ferre. NOES: None
52, PUBLIC HEARING - OFF-STREET PARKING DEPARTMENT BUDGET
see item 14 of these minutes
Mr. Brawn: Mr. Mayor, I am Art. Brawn, Assistant Director of
Off -Street Parking. Mr. La Baw is on vacation and asked me to come
down and represent him.
Mayor Ferre: Lets get to the questions right quick.
Your total estimate for this coming revenue year as I read is one
million, five o five, $1,505,000
Of that total, forgetting from the first page which totals 481, is
that meters?
Mr. Brawn: That is all the Off -Street Parking Lots.
Mayor Ferre: Lots.
Mr. Brawn: Then you have a breakdown on the garages and then the
on -street meters down at the bottom of that page and then the
hospital is separate. Parking revenues from the hospital.
Mayor Ferre: Correct me if my arithmetic is wrong.
If I add 481 to one million and one to 278 to 216, there is no way I
get $1,505,000. How come you got $1,505,000?
Mr. Brawn: The lots total $481,000 even. The garages total $530,270.
Mayor Ferre: Wait a moment, I am talking about the estimated revenue
Mr. Brawn: That is what I am talking about, Yes Sir.
Mayor Ferre: The thing I have says 481 for the budget year, revenue
estimate 73-74.
Mr. Brawn: That is on the lots - 481. Now go over to the garages,
you have $167,170 for the one garage.
Mayor Ferre: Get the totals - a million 001.
Mr. Brawn: No, it isn't. That's the total of the lots and the garages.
Mayor Ferre: Ok, you have answered my questions.
Mr. Brawn: That figure for the garages is $530,270 and the grand total
if you will add those up is $1,505,420.
Mayor Ferre: Let me see if I understand this now. What you are telling
me is that we have $481,000 revenue estimate in ground lots. Surface Lots.
Then we have 167,140,159,--.
Mr. Brawn: That's for the new garage.
Mayor Ferro : What happened to #4?
Mr. Brawn: #4 was the proposed garage at the hospital that the county
is now doing. We skipped that numher.
#5 is the one that is going in accross from Dade Jr. Downtown.
Mayor Ferre: Which is the one that is on Biscayne Boulevard?
Mr. Brawn: #2.
Mayor Ferre: How much does that cost on a yearly basis to operate?
Mr. Brawn: $183,643.
Mayor Ferre: I assume we aren't going to build any more mechanical garages
Mr. Brawn: Absolutely not.
88
JUL 26197
Mr. Brawn: We consider ourselves lucky if we break even on
that one down there.
Mayor Ferre: I have no further questions. Are there any questions
from the Commission or the Administration?
You have the income as submitted to you, the expenditures are in your
book. I am satisfied.
Rev. Gibson: I move.
Mrs. Gordon: Second.
An Ordinance entitled -
AN ORDINANCE MAKING APPROPRIATIONS FOR THE FISCAL
YEAR COMMENCING OCTOBER 1, 1973 AND ENDING SEPTEM-
BER 30, 1974 FOR THE DEPARTMENT OF OFF-STREET PARKING
PROVIDING THAT IF ANY SECTION, CLAUSE OR SUB -SECTION
SHALL BE DECLARED UNCONSTITUTIONAL, IT SHALL NOT
AFFECT THE REMAINING PROVISIONS; REPEALING ALL ORDINANCES
OR PARTS OF ORDINANCES IN CONFLICT HEREWITH; DECLARING
THIS ORDINANCE TO BE AN EMERGENCY MEASURE AND BY A
FOUR -FIFTHS VOTE OF THE MEMBERS OF THE COMMISSION,
DISPENSING WITH THE REQUIREMENT OF READING THIS ORD-
INANCE ON TWO SEPARATE DAYS
was introduced by Reverend Gibson and seconded by Mrs. Gordon for
adoption as an emergency measure and dispensing with the requirement
of reading same on two separate days, which was agreed to by the
following vote - AYES: Messrs. Reboso, Plummer, Mrs. Gordon, Reverend
Gibson and Mayor Ferre. NOES: None. Whereupon the Commission on
motion of Reverend Gibson, seconded by Mrs. Gordon adopted said ord-
inance by the following vote - AYES: Messrs. Plummer, Reboso, Mrs.
Gordon, Reverend Gibson and Mayor Ferre. NOES: None
SAID ORDINANCE WAS DESIGNATED ORDINANCE NO. 8172.
53, CONDITIONAL USE - LOTS 1 THED 5, AND 16 'Hu_ 20 BLOCK 22N MIAMI B-41
GREYHOUND BUS TERMINAL
SEE ALSO MINUTE ITEM #24
Mayor Ferre: Mr. Schiff are you ready? Mr. Rompf will you step forward.
Sir? Have you had an opportunity to discuss this further and look into
this matter?
Mr. Rompf: Yes we discussed it.
Mayor Ferre: Is your position still the same or have you changed?
Mr. Rompf: I haven't changed much. They haven't changed either.
They still feel they have a perfectly adequate plan but with the
experience we have had in this city, its rather doubtful.
Rev. Gibson: Mr. Mayor, I want to make a comment before I make this
motion.
I would think that all of us who live in the City know that the
situations change from day to day. I remember when the First National
Bank was built, those who were here voting at that time, we the
citizens thought it was adequate. I would hope that the corporation
would be ever mindful and vigilant -that if you discover that you are
creating a traffic jam or traffic problem, in the operation of this
Bus Terminal that you wouldn't hesitate for the safety and welfare
of this' community, that you would be vigilant and get about the business
and acquire some more land.
With that in mind, I am going to offer the motion.
89 JUL 2 6197
•
The following resolution was introduced by Reverend Gibson
who moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 73-612
A RESOLUTION GRANTING A "CONDITIONAL USE" AS PRO-
VIDED IN ORDINANCE NO. 6871, ARTICLE XV, SECTION 2
(8) (b), TO PERMIT CONSTRUCTION OF GREYHOUND BUS
TERMINAL ON LOTS 1 THRU 5, AND 16 THRU 20, BLOCK
22N, MIAMI (B-41), LOCATED AT APPROXIMATELY
950 N. E. 2ND AVENUE, SUBJECT TO REVISED SITE PLAN
SHOWING A 6' SOLID TEXTURED MASONRY WALL ON THE
SOUTH HALF OF THE WEST PROPERTY LINE, WITH a 3'
LANDSCAPED AREA ALONG THE ENTIRE WEST PROPERTY LINE
SCREENING OF TRASH FACILITIES AND A DETAILED LAND-
SCAPE PLAN, MAKING THE NECESSARY RIGHT-OF-WAY
DEDICATIONS ON N. E. 10TH STREET AND 2ND AVENUE
ZONED C-4 (GENERAL COMMERCIAL) DISTRICT and C-5
(LIBERAL COMMERCIAL) DISTRICT
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here and on file
in the City Clerks Office)
Upon being seconded by Mr. Reboso, the resolution was passed
and adopted by the following vote - AYES: Messrs. Plummer, Reboso,
Mrs. Gordon, Reverend Gibson and Mayor Ferre. NOES: None
Under Discussion -
Mr. Plummer: Father Gibson has made certain comments, I would like
to make others and this is in no way please, detrimental to the
Greyhound Corporation, the owner and operator.
The Downtown Bus Station has never enjoyed the best reputation that
has been known. I am not going into detail but I am going to say
Mr. Schiff, I have been in other towns where in fact a beautiful
terminal was something to be raved about.
Now this City was just recently placed in a position where our city
police were called upon to go in and help out a situation in Greyhound
and this City just paid $.10,000 to settle a lawsuit because we went
into help. I am not going into great details as asked by the Mayor.
I hope Greyhound in building this new terminal will keep these thoughts
in mind and in a year from now after this terminal is completed, I can
sit here on this Commission and say that the Greyhound Bus Station that
we have in Miami is an asset, not a liability.
Do you read between the lines?
Mr. Schiff: Yes Sir, loud and clear.
Mayor Ferre: I am not worried about between the lines. I want him to
read the lines.
Mr. Schiff: May I say gentlemen that the design of this station has
been 2 years in the planning and Mr. John Marion who has designed
other.terminal facilities for Greyhound, has designed this and it will
be a credit to the City of Miami.
Mayor Ferre: Thats not the question now and thats not the concern.
The concern is parking and access and egress.
Mr. Schiff: Our client in its own best interest cannot allow itself
to be in an area where its strangled. It's as simple as that.
Mayor Ferre•; Your client has allowed itself to be strangled for the
last 15 years.
Mr. Schiff: Well what property could they have acquired around there?
90 JUL 2 6197
•
Mayor Ferre: The one they acquired 5 years ago and have been holding
for 5 or 6 years, so, I think, I want the record to be very clear as
to this Commission's serious concern about this matter.
I think from the consensus, I think you will get your vote but I want
this record to reflect the very serious concern of this Commission on
a serious matter and if this does come up again, I want the records to
be clear so somebody can go back and look at it.
Mr. Schiff: It's understood Mr. Mayor.
54, ALLOCATE ADDITIONAL SUM FROM CONTINGENT FUND FOR FINAL COMPENSATION
TO THE CITY'S ARBITRATOR IN TRI-PARTITE ADVISORY ARBITRATION
PROCEEDINGS
Mr. Plummer: The information I had asked for Mr. Reese was the only
thing we are shown here is an additional $3,000.
I would like to know, what was the total cost Sir?
Mr. Reese: $8,000 because you previously approved $5,000 where he worked
on other contracts and this is $3,000 for the time he spent in the
advisory arbitration.
Mr. Plummer: Is this only for the Fire Department Mr. Reese?
Mr. Reese: No. This talks about Advisory Arbitration Proceedings.
This has already been held.
Mayor Ferre: Is this the matter that Dr. Vatican was chairman of?
Mr. Reese: Correct. The counsel is for the City of Miami. This is
the Attorney.
Mr. Plummer: This was between the City of Miami in reference to
arbitration for what Sir?
Mr. Reese: For the American Federation of State, County and Municipal
Employees.
Mayor Ferre: This is that report that we just got a few days ago
from Mr. Reese's office with 12 items that they recommended, for
example time and a half, that type of thing.
Mr. Reese: It was for legal service to represent the City before
the Arbitration Board.
Mayor Ferre: Mr. Reese, I notice that Dr. Vatican and I thought I
saw Gottman and Lee Taffel and other people that are very well known
with the labor movement. Was that an all labor committee?
Mr. Reese: No Sir, it was not. The City of Miami was represented by
Wendall Bailey. One representative of the City. One representative
of the Union and the fellow from the University was supposed to be
neutral.
Mayor Ferre: 5 members on the committee.
Mr. Reese: Am I right on that?
That's right. There were 3 members.
91 JUL 261973
Mayor Ferre stated he could recall 5 names.
The following resolution was introduced by Mr. Plummer who
moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 73-613
A RESOLUTION AMENDING RESOLUTION NO. 72-817 BY
ALLOCATING AN ADDITIONAL SUM OF $3,000 FROM THE
CONTINGENT FUND TO PROVIDE FOR ADDITIONAL AND
FINAL COMPENSATION TO THE CITY'S ARBITRATOR IN
THE TRI-PARTITE ADVISORY ARBITRATION PROCEEDINGS
WITH LOCAL 654, AMERICAN FEDERATION OF STATE,
COUNTY AND MUNICIPAL EMPLOYEES
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here and on file
in the City Clerk's Office)
Upon being seconded by Mr. Reboso, the resolution was passed
and adopted by the following vote - AYES: Messrs. Plummer, Reboso,
Mrs. Gordon, Reverend Gibson and Mayor Ferre. NOES: None
55. AWARD BID - VI RG IN IA GROVE HIGHWAY IMPROVEMENT H-4358
The following resolution was introduced by Mr. Plummer who
moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 73-614
A RESOLUTION AWARDING THE BID RECEIVED JULY 12, 1973
OF MARKS BROTHERS COMPANY (not incorporated) IN THE
ESTIMATED AMOUNT OF $115,387.50 FOR THE CONSTRUCTION
OF VIRGINIA GROVE HIGHWAY IMPROVEMENT H-4358 IN
VIRGINIA GROVE HIGHWAY IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT H-4358;
ALLOCATING THE ADDITIONAL AMOUNT OF $75,543 FROM THE
ACCOUNT ENTITLED "HIGHWAY IMPROVEMENT BOND FUNDS" AND
$50,691 FROM THE ACCOUNT ENTITLED "STORM SEWER BOND
FUND"; AND AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE
A CONTRACT THEREFOR
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here and on
file in the City Clerk's Office)
Upon being seconded by Reverend Gibson, the resolution was passed
and adopted by the following vote - AYES: Messrs. Plummer, Reboso,
Mrs. Gordon, Reverend Gibson and Mayor Ferre. NOES: None
92
56, COMPLETION DATE OF IMPROVEMENTS ON SOUTH BAYSHORE DRIVE -DISCUSSION
Mr. Plummer: I would like to ask the City Manager, what is the
approximate proposed completion date of the improvements here in front
of City Hall on Bayshore Drive?
Mr. Grimm: They have a year contract. About this time next year
we should be through.
Mr. Plummer: Mr. Grimm, I hope you will keep in mind Sir, I know
you are well aware but let's get it on the record, that this thing
be handled in Euch a manner that it least inhibits the flow of traffic
especially in those morning hours and those afternoon hours.
I just want to get that on the record. I know its not you but tthe
contractor.
Mr. Grimm: We are going to get policemen there in the morning.
Mr. Plummer: All right fine.
57, AWARD BID - SAN MARCO SANITARY SEWER IMPROVEMENT SR-5316-C
The following resolution was introduced by Mr. Plummer who moved
its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 73-615
A RESOLUTION ALLOCATING THE SUM OF $1,175,105.21
FROM THE SANITARY SEWER BOND FUND FOR THE CONST-
RUCTION OF SAN MARCO SANITARY SEWER IMPROVEMENT
SR-5316-C (centerline sewer); ACCEPTING THE BID
OF INTERCOUNTY CONSTRUCTION CORPORATION IN THE
AMOUNT OF $1,049,201.09 SUBJECT TO THE CONCURRENCE
OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY; AND AUTH-
ORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE A CONTRACT
THEREFORE AFTER RECEIPT OF AFORESAID CONCURRENCE
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here and on file
in the City Clerks Office)
Upon being seconded by Mr. Reboso, the resolution was passed and
adopted by the following vote - AYES: Messrs. Plummer, Reboso, Mrs.
Gordon, Reverend Gibson and Mayor Ferre. NOES: None
33
JUL 261973
58, AWARD BID - BASEBALL BACKSTOPS FOR EDISON & WYNDWOOD PARKS
The following resolution was introduced by Mr. Plummer
who moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 73-616
A RESOLUTION AWARDING THE BID RECEIVED JULY 23, 1973
OF FENCE MASTERS INC., IN THE ESTIMATED AMOUNT OF
$7,060 FOR THE EDISON AND WYNDWOOD PARKS - BASEBALL
BACKSTOPS - 1973; ALLOCATING THE AMOUNT OF $7,907
FROM THE ACCOUNT ENTITLED "PUBLIC PARKS AND RECREA-
TIONAL FACILITIES BOND FUND"; AND AUTHORIZING THE
CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE A CONTRACT THEREFORE
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here and on
file in the City Clerks Office)
Upon being seconded by Mr. Reboso, the resolution was passed
and adopted by the following vote - AYES: Messrs. Plummer, Reboso,
Mrs. Gordon, Reverend Gibson and Mayor Ferre. NOES: None
59, AWARD BID - WYNDWOOD PARK COMMUNITY BUILDING ALTERATIONS
The following resolution was introduced by Mrs. Gordon who
moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 73-617
A RESOLUTION AWARDING THE BID RECEIVED JULY 24, 1973
OF HENRY DEGRAFF $ SON IN THE ESTIMATED AMOUNT OF
$144,300 FOR WYNDWOOD PARK COMMUNITY BUILDING ALTER-
ATIONS - 1973; ALLOCATING THE AMOUNTS OF $110,000
FROM THE ACCOUNT ENTITLED "PUBLIC PARKS AND RECREAT-
IONAL FACILITIES BOND FUND" AND $51,616 FROM THE
ACCOUNT ENTITLED "CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT FUND -UNALLOCATED
FUNDS"; FURTHER PROVIDING THAT THE ADDITIONAL IMPROVE-
MENTS INCLUDED UNDER THE PARKS AND RECREATIONAL FAC-
ILITIES BOND ISSUE FOR WYNDWOOD PARK BE ACCOMPLISHED
THROUGH CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT FUNDS, UNALLOCATED FUNDS
AT A FUTURE DATE; AND AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER
TO EXECUTE A CONTRACT THEREFORE
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here and on
file in the City Clerks Office)
Upon being seconded by Mr. Reboso, the resolution was passed
and adopted by the following vote - AYES: Messrs. Plummer, Reboso,
Mrs. Gordon, Reverend Gibson and Mayor Ferre. NOES: None
94
JUL 261973
60, AWARD BID - D.M,PLCQRPORATLON - CENTRAL DRAINAGE PROJECT E-29
The following resolution was introduced by Mr. Plummer who
moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 73-618
A RESOLUTION AWARDING THE BID RECEIVED JULY 23,1973
OF D. M. P. CORPORATION IN THE ESTIMATED AMOUNT OF
$323,219 FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF CENTRAL DRAINAGE
PROJECT E-29; ALLOCATING THE AMOUNT OF $362,005 FROM
THE ACCOUNT ENTITLED " STORM SEWER BOND FUNDS "; AND
AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAqR TO EXECUTE A CONTRACT
THEREFOR
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here and on file =
in the City Clerks Office)
Upon being seconded by Reverend Gibson, the resolution was
passed and adopted by the following vote - AYES: Messrs. Plummer,
Reboso, Mrs. Gordon, Reverend Gibson and Mayor Ferre. NOES: None
In the course of the foregoing resolution, the following discussion
occurred:
Mr Plummer: Mr. Mayor, I hate to interject this and Mr. Reese, I
hate to do it on your last day but let me ask this question and I
raise this point with all sincerity Mr. Mayor.
Mr. Reese, I know you put this out for bid but I believe it was this
particular corporation that did some work up there by my house and
that for 4 days, I jumped up and down about. Those people just
didn't do right by this City and I could be mistaken about the corporation
but I am raising this question because if I as a Commissioner object
to these people getting a contract, what position does that place the
administration in?
Mr. Reese: If you vote against it and there was a majority voting
for it, it would still be awarded.
Mr. Plummer: But no, what I am getting at Mr. Reese is, this Commission
I believe has a standing resolution that we are compelled to take the
low bidder.
Mr. Reese: The lowest acceptable bid. The lowest bidder may not meet the
qualifications or the specifications.
Mr. Plummer: Mr. Grimm, do you happen to recall Sir, who did the job
there at 17th Avenue and Dixie Highway?
Mr. Grimm: You are right. It was the same contractor. It was not a
contract however with Public Works. It was a contract with the Water
Department for installation of the water main over to Fair Isle or
Sailboat Key as its now called.
Mr. Plummer: For 4 days, the people of my neighborhood were plagued
with a street we couldn't travel on which is a main arterial and I
called up for 4 days and complained that something should be done about
it and the obvious attitude was, they didn't care. Now, I will tell
you quite truthfully. I don't like doing business with people like
that but I don't want to embarass the administration by putting them
in a position of one Commissioner J. L. Plummer raising hell about it.
Mayor Ferre: All right, let Maurice Ferre ask the question then.
Who was the low bidder and what was his bid?
Mr. Grimm: The low bidder in this particular job is the D.M.P.
Corporation in the amount of $323,219.
Mayor Ferre: Who was the second bidder?
Mr. Grimm: The Second bidder was Marks Brothers Construction Co.,
on an alternate base bid of $331,144.
Mayor Ferre: Now you have it.
Mr. Plummer: Now Mr. Mayor, I am not for the City spending an additional
$8,000 but I think it is only fair, before we award this contract to
this corporation, that they come in and make certain commitments that
they will comply with the rules and regulations as put forth by this
City and express to them the bad situation that existed at 17th and
Dixie Highway and we weren't happy with that.
Mayor Ferre: You can either do that 2 ways. You can either move for
deferment until next month or you can pass it with the condition
that the City Manager bring these people in and have a nice chat with
them.
Mr. Plummer: Either way is acceptable to me but I think it should
be done.
Mr. Grimm: This really is my responsibility and I will assure the
Commission that I will see that they do everything to comply with
the specifications.
Mayor Ferre: You had better let them know that they better do it this
time, I don't care whether it was the Water Department or the City
of Miami, you have a serious objection by a Commissioner of this City
and I think with some cause because he lives there and witnessed this.
Mr. Grimm: This is in the same line as what Mr. Plummer said about
Bayshore Drive. It is my responsibility.
61, PARKING LOT LIGHTING - DESIGN STANDARDS & PARKING LOT REVIEW BOARD
Mayor Ferro: There were 2 gentlemen here that wanted to speak on
this item. The chair recognizes you Sir, your name and address for
the Record.
Mr. Simon: Herbert Lee Simon,;721 S. W. 27th Avenue, Miami, President
of the Miami Board of Realtors, and with me I have Kenneth Rosen who
is the past president. George Simon, no relation and George is the
president of our governmental affairs committee.
The 3 of us wanted to speak with you once again on this lighting
ordinance. We have appeared before the Commission several times on
it. We have also been, had meetings with the Manager's Office and
with the Building Director's office. We were effective in making some
alterations to the amendment to the ordinance in that it also originally
encompassed single family residences, duplexes, triplexes etc.
These were eliminated because of some of the meetings that we had.
However, we feel still that the ordinance is unfair, unjust and
unconstitutional.
Now unfair and unjust because this puts the burden of so-called crime
prevention which I understand is the purpose of the ordinance on the
backs of the individual property owners. A relatively few property
owners. The commercial and apartment buildings.
We feel it is unconstitutional because it applies to existing buildings
as well as new buildings. Now I would like to call to your attention
that the reason this comes before you at this moment, is to make it
comply with the South Florida Building Code. The County which adopts
the South Florida Building Code and apparently is satisfied with
their ordinance,in some ways is more restrictive in that it requires
2' candle where you are requiring 1 in certain areas.
96
The county's ordinance only applies to new construction. If the City
ordinance was to also go along verbatim with the county ordinance, we
would have no objection because when new construction is built, esp-
ecially I am speaking of commercial and apartment buildings, you can
prepare for this type of an ordinance. With existing construction, it
actually costs more to install it, than new construction, you have to
dig up asphalt paving, install additional power and all to comply with
this lighting. .In addition, in commercial properties we often •have
long term leases. Often, 5, 10, 20 years and there was no way that
you could forsee this type of an ordinance coming up with additional
expense to the property owner and as I said, we feel it is unconstit-
utional. We would ask that you make the city ordinance to exactly
comply or be parallel to the county ordinance so that it would only
apply to new construction.
Mr. Rosen will elaborate a little bit further as far as apartment
buildings are concerned but the cost is prohibitive. I think if
Miami weye lit up as this ordinance will require, we would look like
one big crime area and I ask you to drive through the garment district
where you do have the sodium vapor lights and I don't think that most
Miamian's would appreciate the entire city appearing that way.
Mr. Rosen: Kenneth Rosen, 3746 West Flagler Street, Miami. I am
speaking in my capacity of the Miami Board of Realtors, a member of
the governmental affairs committee, a realtor and a private property
owner. On the metro ordinance, the requirement on new buildings, we
consider to he a basically good ordinance but I want to point out that
on the new buildings, the metro ordinance only requires that the lights
be on from dusk until the close of business where the City of Miami
ordinance requires the lights be on from dusk until dawn and that seems
to be very unfair and inequitable and a tremendous waste of money to
keep lights on all night long, from dusk until dawn, so if you want
to make this ordinance comply, it should he from dusk until the close
of business.
Now to get onto the cost on existing buildings We have no objection
to new buildings complying with the City of Miami Lighting Ordinance.
We think it is a good ordinance as relates to new buildings but we
think it's extremely unfair to require thousands of property owners
to install lighting on 10, 15, 20, 30. 40, 50 year old buildings.
This is going to cost millions and millions of dollars. We have some
breakdowns on the cost from an electrical contractor.
It will cost millions and millions of dollars and T ask this City
Commission, who do you think will pay for it?
It will not be the landlords that will really pay for it, it will be
the tenants, the consumer that will pay for this lighting on these
used buildings. It's an accepted fact that in realestate that when
costs go up, you have short term leases, one year leases or no leases,
those costs will be passed on to the consumer, to the tenants.
I think rents are already high enough in the City of Miami and the
tenants should not pay 'the millions of dollars that lighting is going
to cost on used buildings. As we say, on new buildings,. Okay, the
builder aan figure that in his cost but if you go to a 8-10-12 unit
building and tell him it will cost $7,500 to rip up his lot and install
new lighting and 75 to 150 per month on 10 units to run that lighting,
that's an awful lot of money. He is going to pass it directly on to
the tenant and the tenant can't afford it, Especially the minority
tenants in the poor areas.
There is a federal revenue sharing plan that I read about in the
Miami Herald where millions of dollars is going to be passed to the
City of Miami for better lighting. If we want better lighting, lets
put in the sodium vapor lights that have proven to be extremely
effective in the downtown crime areas. Let's put them in other
crime areas. There are millions of dollars coming to the City for
this purpose. It would be grossly unfair, unjust, I am not an
attorney so will not talk about the constitutionality of this ordinance
although I have spoken to a very good attorney this morning that he
considers it to be unconstitutional to pass an ordinance that affects
existing property.
97 JUL 2s 19
111 10
I don't think this is the way the City of Miami should operate. I
think its unjust, unfair and inequitable and will cost the tenants
a fortune of money. The only ones who will profit from this are the
electrical contractors and the electrical suppliers because they will
make millions because of this ordinance and those are the only people
I can see in this area who will benefit from the lighting Ordinance
will be the suppliers and the contractors so we respectfully submit
that this City Commission re -consider this particular ordinance if
you want to amend it to make it in accord with the county ordinance,
we think that's a good idea because the County Ordinance with the
exception of the 2' candle is fine. It doesn't include existing
property #1 and the county ordinance doesn't require the lights on
from dusk until dawn, only from dusk until the close of business,
so we ask you to exempt existing properties.
Rev. Gibson: If you were here earlier and heard us deliberate on the
Parks, I am not saying we shouldn't begin where you said, but I just
want you to know the kind of predicament you put us in. If you were
here earlier and heard what those people said about the parks.
They said we were just a little different from the County. I want
to stamp indelibly upon you that they said, we the City were just a
little different and they said it in no uncertain terms. Don't you
fool around and turn loose those parks to the County. Now that's what
they said. Maybe the reason we are saying what we are saying, is that
our situation is a little different from the county's as to why we
want the lights at a certain time, a certain dimensions and to run
for a certain period. I just thought I better throw that in.
Mr. Simon: I think you bring up a good point Commissioner. The City
should have lighting. We are talking about the fact that existing
property owners should not have the burdens put upon them to spend
millions of dollars to do the job. We think you would be much better
off putting in the sodium vapor lights in the high crime areas and in
the medium crime areas where it would be effective.
Rev. Gibson: I don't know what you call high crime areas or low
crime areas but I tell you this. I live on the corner of William
and Elizabeth and the sodium vapor lights are right there and I will
tell you this. I am not complaining because at least T see all around
me, all the while its dark.
Mrs. Gordon: May I ask Father Gibson a question?
Mr. Reese: Mr. Mayor -
Mayor Ferro: Mrs. Gordon and then Mr. Reese.
Mrs. Gordon: Since he says he lives in an area where the vapor lights
are in effect and which he enjoys having them. Is there a dark spot
around your house anywhere or is it nice an light all over?
Rev. Gibson: No, that's the thing. Whenever in the night I get up,
a parishioner called me at 4 o'clock this morning and I had to get
up and I got up at 4 and I could see everything in front of me and
behind me.
Mrs. Gordon: Good.
Mr. Simon: We could find none and I have asked the Police Chief,
I have asked the Commissioners before, if there is any other city
in the United States that has a similar ordinance. So far, I haven't
received an affirmative answer. Now, other cities do, at least in
the high -crime areas, light it, but this is the responsibility is
by the City. You are trying to put the responsibility on the backs
of relatively few private citizens. If you want to light it up with
sodium vapor, if this is what you like in whatever areas that you
deem necessary, and have these as special lighting districts or
somehow put it on the taxpayers back but on everybody's back, for
everybody that has the use of it. Not require individuals to light
up their own parking lots and once again, I challenge you to tell
me of any other city in the United States that has such an ordinance.
It just is an unfair and unconstitutional ordinance.
98
I just want to respond to Father Gibson.
Mayor Ferre: Mr. Reese do you want to -
Mr. Reese; This is a public hearing for the purpose of discussing the
amendment to the Parking Lot Ordinance and that amendment is to increase
the number on the Review Board from 3 to 5. This is the purpose of this
meeting. Also, to endeavor to bring this ordinance in conformance with
parts of the South Florida Building Code.
This ordinance for an example, covers parking lot or apartment houses
where the South Florida Building Code does not cover.
Now, I want the City Commission and everybody to understand that we
are not asking in this ordinance anybody to light up any public right
of way. This is being done through federal taxes that every property
owner, every taxpayer in fact, not only the realtors but every taxpayer
pays for, and the question of asking the Chief of Police or somebody
else if this lightin' pattern has been used in any other place, there
is a number of sources that such answer could be supplied and I don't
think its through the Chief of Police.
I want to point out that the Sodium Vapor Lights or intense lighting
that has been going on in this City has had an effect on the.type of
activities going on in the City. Reading the paper recently, here on
27th Aven;ie and the Grove area, there is a rapist that is kind and
generous. I don't know what the paper means by this but this is the
way it was reported and he carries a bag of instruments with him for
his profession. It was in this morning's paper, read it.
But, I contend that this man can't operate if those parking lots in
that area is properly lighted.
The most important thing is that we don't want people raped in this
town and it can happen in dark parking lots which it has happened on
a number of occasions as well as other places,dpo I don't think the
merits of this ordinance is up for public hearing - Only the question
that is before the Commission, to amend it.
Previously, you had already adopted it.
Mr. Rosen: I would like to reply to that. That's exactly why we are
here today because if you are going to amend your ordinance, be con-
sistent with the county ordinance and that was the reason given in the
agenda on the report I read.
It is necessary to amend the City of Miami ordinance
because the South Florida Building Code has been changed and
you want to make the City of Miami ordinance commensurate
with that ORDINANCL.
We say that the metro ordinance does not include existing buildings.
Father Gibson gave an excellent example of sodium vapor lights doing
a great deal of good for his home and the community but under this
City of Miami Ordinance, if you owned an apartment building Father,
you would have to put in the lights on your parking lot, on your
private property, in addition to the sodium vapor lights and that is
what we say is ridiculous. The problem doesn't lie in private
property owners lighting up private parking lots. The problem lies
in having more sodium vapor lights installed by the City in those
areas where we have high crime or medium crime. There is plenty of
apartment buildings that don't want any light in certain sections of
the City, on all night long to look like the Orange Bowl.
That's what this City will look like. It will look like the Orange
Bowl if every single property is lit up all night long throughout
thousands of acres of property in the City of Miami.
Mayor Ferre: Ken, these are 2 separate items as I understand them.
Mr. Reese: No,actually its an amendment to the ordinance to cover
the two items but the Commission, I don't think can act in two
separate items. It would have to be an amendment to the ordinance
but Mr. Mayor, before you get to that point.
The statement of explaining this action in the ordinance is quote:
"It is necessary to amend the City's Parking Lot Lighting Ordinance
to clarify and improve upon the existing ordinance thereby establishing
clearer guidelines for the public when required to provide parking
lot lighting".
Now I will be darned if that goes into the ramifications that was just
explained.
99 JUL 2 61973
I want to bring to the Commission's attention. It isn't too long ago
that the largest city in the United States had all kinds of adverse
publicity of the crime activities at 42nd Street and Broadway.
The adverse publicity was to the extent that the Mayor of that city
came to Miami to see the lights that we are using and today, they are
following and requiring parking lots to be lit as well as 42nd Street
and Broadway, to help alleviate their problem.
Now, anybody that goes to New York, its there.
Mr. Rosen: On the public parking lots, we have no objection.
The public parking lots, the commercial parking lots have great exposure
and there are hazards. What we are objecting to are the thousands of
property owners, that under this ordinance will have to provide lighting
on 40 and 50 year old buildings and this is what we are saying.
Father Gibson and the City Manager have stated that sodium vapor lights
is the answer to the problem. The answer to the problem is not to make
the private property owners provide the lighting. In your case, it
would be duplication if you owned an apartment building.
Mr. Reese: No Sir, it isn't duplication. I say the answer is lighting
the public right of way as well as the dark parking lots and the parking
lots in private apartments are just as dark as the parking lots in a
public lot if they are not lit.
Mr. Rosen: How many rapes take place on the private parking lots of
private apartment buildings and I don't think anybody knows those
statistics. Throe are accidents take place on the Palmetto Expressway
but you don't stop all cars from travelling on the Palmetto Expressway.
Where you need lighting is on the public commercial parking lots and -
in the areas where sodium vapor lights are needed and you are going to
get millions of dollars according to the Miami Herald for the article
I read, you were going to get millions of dollars for that very purpose
from the federal government to solve this problem. Why put the monkey
on the back of the private property owner who is going to pass the cost
on to the tenant that can't afford it?
Mr. Reese: Mr. Rosen, the article in the Miam;. Herald was the article
stating that the City Administration recommended to the City Commission
that an amount of money in excess of a million dollars be made available
under the federal revenue sharing funds to put in the sodium vapor
lights throughout the city of Miami. Now it didn't say we were going
to get millions or trillions or anything else more. All that article
was talking to and directing itself to was to the statements of what
was recommended 6f how we should ,aspend our revenue sharing. There
wasn't anything else said other than to expand the lighting in the
City of Miami.
Mr. Rosen: I think it was about 3 million if I remember what -
Mayor Ferre: Mr. Rosen, I think this matter has been amply aired.
I think the Commission is well aware and -
Mrs. Gordon: Someone answer the question. The County has a parking
lighting ordinance for parking lots. Does it refer to existing
buildings or only to new ?
Mr. Rosen: Only to new buildings and that's why we are hopeful today
that if you amend your ordinance, you will make it the same as the
county's.
Mrs. Gordon: Another point. As I understand it, I don't think the
County is planning sodium vapor lights as we are with some of our
revenuesharing funds. It might be something for this Commission to
consider that we conform to the requirements of Dade County in that
we also that ask that all new construction have lighting in the
parking lot and defer for a time, the requirements on the older buildings
for another review. Lets look at it and see. Are we putting vapor
lights in there or aren't we? If we are, Father Gibson -it lights
up all around his place.
10U
JUL 261973
Mayor Ferre: How did this ordinance? Wasn't there a public hearing -
Mr. Reese: Mr. Mayor, that is the point I was just going to bring out.
There were 2 public hearings on it. It was postponed 5 times.
Mayor Ferre: And did this Commission take a position on it?
Mr. Reese: This Commission eventually adopted it.
Mayor Ferre: Was it a -:unanimous vote?
Mr. Reese: This was on the agenda and it was postponed.
Mayor Ferre: Was it a unanimous vote at the time?
Mr. Reese: As I recall it was unanimous.
Mayor Ferre: A public hearing at the time? 2 of them?
Was this matter fully aired?
Mr. Plummer: Yes Sir, we spent an awful lot of time on it.
Mayor Ferre: I wasn't here then so I am asking the questions.
Mrs. Gordon: I want to say that I believe it was stated at that time
and that was that we would try it and see how it would go and then
we would take another look at it if it wasn't working out.
Mr. Plummer: Mr. Mayor, all of this conversation by Mr. Rosen and
I have listened to very well.
Mr. Mayor, the only thing that is before us and the only thing that
we can act upon as an agenda item is increasing that Board from 3 to 5
members.
If Mr. Rosen and the 2 Mr. Simon's would like to bring their thoughts
back and have another public hearing, well then that's another day
but today the only thing we cal vote on is that which is before us
legally and that is to increase the Board from 3 to 5 members.
Mr. Mayor, I so move.
Mayor Ferre: There is a motion on the floor.
Rev. Gibson: Second.
Mr. Reese: Mr. Mayor, discussing the motion, I want to bring it to
your attention that as we put in the intensive lights throughout
the City, if that light is lighting up a parking lot where the foot
candlepower meets the requirements, then that parking lot doesn't
have to put any lights in, wherever the foot candlepower is met.
So the main thrust is endeavoring to get the Appeal procedure set up
so these appeals can come in, so they can be heard, so that we can
make this ordinance a little more flexible than.it has been.
Mayor Ferre: We have a motion and a second.
Mr. Rosen: I don't read it the same way Mr. Plummer reads it at
all.
If I can read the english language it says providing for lighting above
public and private parking lots located in commercial and residential
zones.
Mr. Plummer: This is the design standards you are referring to?
Mr. Rosen: Yes. I mean you say its from 3 to 5 members. I read
it completely different.
Mr. Plummer: Wait a minute, I might stand corrected Sir. They aren't
labled A$B.
io1 JUL 261973
Mayor Ferre: Why don't we take them as separate items?
Mr. Plummer: I stand corrected Mr. Mayor. Well let me go ahead and
move that one. I don't think that's controversial.
Mr. Reese, who are the 5 board members? Who are the 3 and who are the
proposed?
Mr. Reese: A representative on the Building Department.
A representative of the Public Works.
A representative that is not affiliated in any way with
public works or public buildings or with the city.
2 more that will be appointed within the city government.
An Ordinance entitled -
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING ARTICLE VI OF CHAPTER 34 OF
THE CODE OF THE CITY OF MIAMI PROVIDING FOR THE
LIGHTING OR PUBLIC AND PRIVATE PARKING LOTS BY
CREATING NEW SECTION 34-63 THERETO;,BY DELETING
THE TITLE OF SECTION 34-63; "PARKING LOT APPEAL
BOARD", AND SUBSTITUTING THEREFORE A NEW TITLE,
"PARKING LOT REVIEW BOARD"; BY DELETING PARAGRAPH
(a) OF SECTION 34-63 AND SUBSTITUTING A NEW'PARA-
GRAPH (a) PROVIDING FOR AN INCREASE IN THE PARKING
LOT REVIEW BOARD FROM THREE MEMBERS TO FIVE MEMBERS;
DECLARING THIS ORDINANCE TO BE AN EMERGENCY MEASURE
AND DISPENSING WITH THE REQUIREMENT OF READING THE
SAME ON TWO SEPARATE DAYS BY A VOTE OF NOT LESS
THAN FOUR -FIFTHS OF THE MEMBERS OF THE COMMISSION
was introduced by Mr. Plummer and seconded by Reverend Gibson for
adoption as an emergency measure and dispensing with the requirement
of reading same on two separate days, which was agreed to by the
following vote - AYES: Messrs. Plummer, Reboso, Mrs. Gordon, Reverend
Gibson and Mayor Ferre. NOES: None. Whereupon the Commission on
motion of Mr. Plummer, seconded by Reverend Gibson, adopted said
ordinance by the following vote - AYES: Messrs. Plummer, Reboso,
Mrs. Gordon, Reverend Gibson and Mayor Ferre. NOES: None
SAID ORDINANCE WAS DESIGNATED ORDINANCE NO. 8173
Mayor Ferre: Now on the other portion. Any discussion on it?
Mr. Plummer: This is exactly the point he was making. He was making
the point if I read this correctly, that other than C-3.
Mr. Reese: Other than just that but the other part is trying to
bring it in line with the part of the South Florida Building Code.
Mr. Plummer: Let me ask you, where is the public hearing contained
before Mr. Reese?
Mr. Reese: The public hearing contained the entire ordinance.
Mr. Plummer: All right Sir.
Mrs. Gordon: And also that was before we had funds we could call
on for sodium vapor lights. We didn't have that before, now we do.
Mr. Reese: Mrs. Gordon, we already had sodium vapor lights in
when this one came,up.
Mrs. Gordon: Not all over the city.
Mr. Reese: We don't have it all over the city yet.
102
Mrs. Gordon: Well we are talking about allocating funds for it
city wide system that you recommended in your proposal.I know we didn't
adopt it but -
Mr. Reese: I know but that doesn't turn lights on.
I hate to cause a severe financial hardship to many property owners
just because we haven't got them in yet. We want them to get them in
first and then if they don't have to use them afterwards, they can
turn them off. We have caused people a tremendous amount of hardship.
Mr. Reese: Mrs. Gordon, we have been very very kind and very very
generous on this endeavoring to implement it.
We have endeavored to wait to see the lighting program as it goes in
and then administer this.
Mrs. Gordon: Let's do that.
Mr. Reese: This is the way it has been done, so the ordinance doesn't
need to be thrown out on that basis or modified and the Board, we got
an enormous number of appeals and anybody that is under appeal is not
putting a light in.
Mr. Rosen: Really, I know ':hat Mr. Reese is an honorable man but
everybody is getting notices, put in the lights.
They are going to every property owner right now. The inspectors are
out. We know because we are in the realestate business. Thousands
and thousands of people have got the notices but I wonder if the
Commissioners know what the new burglarly ordinance of the County is
that incorporates the amendments to the South Florida Building Code.
Really I believe there was, that the whole purpose of this meeting
today on this new design standard and the change on it and the section
"B" was to make your ordinance comply with the South Florida Building
Code Ordinance which is completely different than the City of Miami
Ordinance. I have stated the 2 major differences. It does not
include existing properties and on new properties, its 10 stalls or
more. They don't even want the 4,5,6 unit building to comply with
it on the new building because it too small a building to worry
about that fancy lighting, its 10 stalls or more, and the lights under
the county ordinance only have to be kept on from the close of business
to dusk or vice versa.
That's what I thought this City Commission was meeting on today.
To amend your ordinance under this Section "B" to coincide with the
county ordinance. There is one thing we don't like about the county
ordinance and that is 2' candles instead of your 1' candle.
If you go along with the county ordinance, it will require 2' candles
on new buildings but we'll fight the county on that one.
Mr. Reese: Mr. Mayor, in our original ordinance, we had 2' candles
and representatives before the Realtor Board stood up here and argued
and argued until the point was compromised and reduced it from 2'
down to 1'. Now, you are getting another argument and I think the
main thrust is: Are we going to proceed with this ordinance or
are we going to abandon it? One or the other.
Mr. Rcsen: I want it amended.
Mayor Ferre: Now wait. Mr. Rosen, I think that we have amply aired
this matter. We are repeating things now. In my opinion it is time
for this Commission to take a stand one way or the other.
The matter is very clear and I see it very clearly and I think the
rest of this Commission does too. Now its up to this Commission to
take a stand and the chair is now open for motions, one way or the
other.
Mrs. Gordon: We're taking a stand. We are just taking a stand to
conform to the county's regulations in part.
Mr. Rothstein: May I clarify this for you? Because of the way you
passed the last portion, _ making from 3 to 5, you have to go on
to pass the portion that deals with "B"C"D $ E" because that gives
to the Board a greater ability to and a greater flexibility to allow
waiver of the requirements under circumstances where there is another
light in the area but I don't think that these gentlemen want to
quarrel with that because it provides for a broader provision for
103 JUL 261973
•
hearings & a broader ability to waive compliance.
I think before you get to the question;of extending or not extending
County or not City, you ought to get to that provision, because I
think these gentlemen will agree to it because that allows relief to
people who don't need it `where there is other adequate lighting.
Mayor Ferre: Can we break it down to that specific point?
Can we make a motion to that specific point?
Rev. Gibson: I will offer a motion to deal with that portion that
you just referred to Sir.
Mr. Rothstein: Are you following me Mr. Clerk on the second page?
"B", "C", "D" AND "E" is what they are now -
Mr. Southern: I don't see anything like that.
Mayor Ferre: It's in the memorandum. Would you deliver a copy of the
memorandum so that he could -
Mr. Rosen: I would like to see that memorandum too. I think we are
entitled to see a copy of it.
Mayor Ferre: That's what 1 am talking about, its in the book.
We have a motion on that portion of it by Father,Gibson. Is there a
second?
The motion was to separate another portion of this as explained by the
City Attorney which would clarify certain portions and improve the
situation.
Rev. Gibson: Where there is adequate lighting otherwise.
Mr. Rothstein: Section 2 dealt with the Board and you passed number
"A" of Section 2 of what is in your book.
What I am saying is, I think you ought to deal with "B", "C", "D" & "E"
Because the intent and affect of that is to give the Review Board more
authority to waive compliance where appropriate circumstances are
present. Then they can come back and quarrel with whether there should
be lighting elsewhere -
Mr. Plummer: Second.
Mayor Ferre: There is a second. Is there further discussion?
If not, call the roll.
An Ordinance entitled -
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING ARTICLE VI OF CHAPTER 34
OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF MIAMI PROVIDING FOR
THE LIGHTING OR PUBLIC AND PRIVATE PARKING LOTS
BY CREATING A NEW SECTION 34-63 THERETO; BY
DELETING PARAGRAPH (b) OF SECTION 34-63 ENTITLED
"PARKING LOT REVIEW BOARD" AND SUBSTITUTING A
NEW PARAGRAPH (b) AND ADDING PARAGRAPHS (c),(d)
AND (e) SETTING GUIDELINES FOR ADMINISTRATIVE
HEARINGS; DECLARING THIS ORDINANCE TO BE AN
EMERGENCY MEASURE AND DISPENSING WITH THE REQ-
UIREMENT OF READING THE SAME ON TWO SEPARATE DAYS
BY A VOTE OF NOT LESS THAN FOUR -FIFTHS OF THE
MEMBERS OF THE COMMISSION
was introduced by Reverend Gibson and seconded by Mr. Plummer for
adoption as an emergency measure and dispensing with the requirement
of reading same on two separate days, which was agreed to by the
following vote - AYES: Messrs. Plummer, Reboso, Mrs. Gordon,
Reverend Gibson and Mayor Ferre. NOES: None. Whereupon the Commission
on motion of Reverend Gibson, seconded by Mr. Plummer adopted said
ordinance by the following vote - AYES: Messrs. Plummer, Reboso,
Mrs. Gordon, Reverend Gibson and Mayor Ferre. NOES: None
SAID ORDINANCE WAS DESIGNATED ORDINANCE NO. 8174.
104
•
Mr. Rothstein: In Section 1, which is what they are objecting to
because it deals with requiring the lighting, changing the terminology,
in effect, its almost the same thing, but its changing the terminology
of something you have already passed and is in force and is active.
Mayor Ferre: Changes the terminology and specifies what in its place?
Mr. Hayes: Cliff Hayes, the Chairman= of the Board. We found in
that particular section because of the wording, that you had excluded
several occupations and uses of property such as a Masonic Lodge
the way it was worded because it says if its adjunct to a commercial
use, you must light if it's in the zone. We are sure that the intent
was that regardless of where a Masonic Lodge or any kind of fraternal
organization has a parking lot, that was intended to be lit also.
This is merely to clear up that one section so that we can administer it.
Mayor Ferre: Do you agree with that?
Mr. Rosen: I'm not sure I know what he is talking about.
Mr. Hayes: The section now reads "Public F Private Parking Lots located
in commercial zones, except the C-3 zone, or public or private parking
lots located in residential zones which are adjunct to a commercial use
shall be provided with so and so"
What we are deleting is the words "which are adjunct to a commercial use"
Therefore, the balance of the ordinance applies to all types of
occupations within a residential zone.
Mr. Simon: Would you give the definition of a private parking lot?
Mr. Hayes: The ordinance itself defines what a public and private
parking lot is and I -
Mr. Simon: This is what, I really don't want to belabor the point.
You Commissioners have long agendas and you can't go into everything
on the agenda obviously so I don't want to be repetitious. I know
Mr. Reese has heard this 100 times but your definition of a private
parking lot is any space where a car parks'. This is whether its paved
or just grass, weeds whatever it is.
This means that every churchyard, schoolyard, every one little lot
space. As Ken Rosen pointed out, the county's ordinance at least says
10 spaces or more.in the front of a gas station where no one is at
night, its just so all-inclusive that Mr. Rosen and I would like to
offer to the Commissioners and the Staff, at our expense, the use of
a Bus. We would like to go along with you and show you the places
at night the ridiculousness of this ordinance because on Coral
Flagler Street -
Mayor Ferre: Yes we'll do that.
Mrs. Gordon: Mr. Mayor, let's just defer this portion.
Mayor Ferre: That portion doesn't speak to it.
Mr. Hayes: Sir that has nothing to do with the ordinance.
Mayor Ferre: No, what you are talking about now is something that
is not up before this Commission today. Now, I for one am willing
to commit myself and I think I can speak for all of this Commission.
We'll go with you and we'll go and look at that and come back and
discuss as separate items and put it on the agenda in September.
Mr. Simon: You are talking about the entire ordinance now.
Rev. Gibson: No no -
Mr. Simon: Or as it relates to existing -
Way,
Mayor Ferre: As it relates to existing use in the private parking
lots as you defined in the past hour here today.
Mrs. Gordon: Then why don't we defer that one portion?
Mayor Ferre: That portion isn't before us today.
105
JUL261973
Mrs. Gordon: I am talking about, on this sheet we have before us.
Mayor Ferre: We still have a portion we haven't discussed which
covers the Masonic Lodge. Can you define that for the Clerk?
Mr. Hayes: Well that is Section 1 of the Ordinance you have in front
of you. Its the one that has a paragraph that deletes the words
"which are adjunct to commercial use"
Mrs. Gordon: And that covers a multitude of sins.
Mr. Hayes: It does. It, because without those words deleted, then
you have -
Mrs. Gordon: Lets defer this until September.
Mayor Ferre: There is a motion for deferral of this particular item.
This portion of it, is there: a second to that motion?
Rev. Gibson: Second, I don't want you to let the church out in
not pu;,cing some lights in those parking lots because people steal
in those lots outside the church. We aren't any more exempt than
anybody else.
Mayor Ferre: We have a motion & second. Further discussion, call
the roll?
The following resolution was introduced by Mrs. Gordon who
moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 73-619
A RESOLUTION DEFERRING CONSIDERATION OF SECTION (1)
OF PROPOSED ORDINANCE FOR LIGHTING OF PUBLIC AND
PRIVATE PARKING LOTS
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here and on
file in the City Clerks Office)
Upon being seconded by Reverend Gibson, the resolution was passed
and adopted by the following vote - AYES: Messrs. Plummer, Reboso,
Mrs. Gordon, Reverend Gibson and Mayor Ferre. NOES: None
•
106 JUL 261973.
4111
62, CONDITIONAL USE - LOT 3, BLOCK 79N - MIAMI (B-41)
The following resolution was introduced by Mr. Plummer who
moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 73-620
A RESOLUTION GRANTING A "CONDITIONAL USE" , as
PROVIDED IN ORDINANCE NO. 6871, ARTICLE XV,
SECTION 2 (8) (a), TO PERMIT PARKING LOT ON
LOT 3, BLOCK 79N, MIAMI (B-41), LOCATED AT
160 N. E. 5TH STREET, SUBJECT TO A WALL ON THE
EAST, SOUTH AND NORTH; WITH PLOT PLAN SUBJECT
TO APPROVAL OF THE PLANNING DEPARTMENT; SUBJECT
TO COMPLIANCE WITH LIGHTING REQUIREMENTS FOR
PARKING LOTS AS SET OUT IN ORDINANCE NO. 8115;
SITE ZONED C-3 (CENTRAL COMMERCIAL) DISTRICT
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here and on
file in the City Clerks Office)
Upon being seconded by Mr. Reboso, the resolution was passed
and adopted by the following vote - AYES: Messrs. Plummer, Rebosa,
Mrs. Gordon, Reverend Gibson and Mayor Ferre. NOES: None
CITY
63, FLAGS IO FLY AT HALF=STAFF IN MEMORY OF CAPT IA N EDDIE RICKENBACKER
Mr. Plummer: Mr. Mayor, it has been requested of us by Eastern
Airlines that tomorrow, the funeral for Eddie Rickenbacker will be
held in South Florida on Key Biscayne.
Since he did so much for this particular area, it has been requested
if possible that all City Flags fly at half-mast in honor of
Eddie Rickenbacker and if its in order, I will offer such a motion.
The following resolution was introduced by Mr. Plummer who
moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 73-621
A RESOLUTION ORDERING ALL CITY OF MIAMI FLAGS TO
BE FLOWN AT HALF STAFF ON FRIDAY, JULY 27, 1973
IN MEMORY OF THE LATE CAPTAIN EDDIE RICKENBACKER
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here and on
file in the City Clerks Office)
Upon being seconded by Reverend Gibson, the resolution was
passed and adopted by the following vote - AYES: Messrs. Plummer,
Rebeso, Mrs. Gordon, Reverend Gibson and Mayor Ferre. NOES: None
107 JUL 2619
1
64, PERSONAL APPEARANCE - MR. DAN EAUL RE: RESTAURANT ASSOCIATES
Mayor Ferre: Mr. Paul, the chair recognizes you.
Mr. Paul: Mr. Mayor, I have with me, Mr. Klepper who is the Vice -
President and General Counsel for Restaurant Associates.
I am here representing the Miami Dolphins and as you were advised
in a memorandum from the City Attorney last week, we have settled
our litigation and the City Attorney has signed a stipulation of
settlement and approved it and we would like the Commission to
approve and ratify what the City Attorney has done.
Mayor Ferre: The chair recognizes Mr. Reese.
Mr. Reese: Mr. Mayor, on this stipulation and Mr. Rothstein can't
say I am practicing law now but if I understood correctly,
Joe Robbie, South Florida Sports Corp., as general partner in behalf
of the Miami Dolphins, was taking legal action against the City of
Miami. That legal action was that the City of Miami acted illegally
in extending the concession contract at the Orange Bowl for
Restaurant Associates.
Restaurant Associates enter as an interloper and when the agreement -
but stipulation of settlement, I think this is right, ends up that
the City of Miami, it has never been determined if the act was legal
or illegal in extending this contract.
This is still the question.
It might have been resolved in a lower court, it was appealed to the
Court of Appeals.
Mayor Ferre: All right, Mr. Rothstein.
Mr. Rothstein: This stipulation in effect is ari admission on the part
of the Dolphins that the City of Miami did act lawfully and properly
and that the City Manager and the City Commission did everything
appropriately as they were supposed to.
Mayor Ferro: We always had faith in that Mr. Rothstein.
Mr. Reese: Well this doesn't say it though. There is nothing on the
record that ever says that.
Mayor Ferro: Will you stipulate to that Mr. Paul?
Mr. Paul: Yes, we will stipulate that.
Mayor Ferre: All right.
Mr. Reese: Let's have a stipulated agreement then.
Mr. Rothstein: Ok, we can prepare and I think Mr. Klepper and
Mr. Paul both represent their clients, the other two parties in the
lawsuit, that we shall enter onto the record of that case the
additional stipulation that all parties agree that the
City of Miami City Commission and the City Manager acted at all times
in a lawful and proper manner.
Mr. Paul: We will so stipulate.
Mayor Ferre: Can we frame that?
Mr. Reese: What does the City of Miami get for consideration in this?
Mr. Rothstein: Now, so far as the stipulation is concerned, these
two gentlemen can stipulate all they want as to an amendment to the
original lease and the original lease being assigned from one to the
other with Restaurant Associates still being responsible under the
original lease for operation but so far as the City is concerned,
annulity doesn't mean anything unless the provisions of the lease are
complied with which require that a written assignment of the lease be
presented to the City Commission and approved by the City Commission
and I believe that the purpose of Mr. Paul being here and Mr. Klepper
108 JUL 2 61973
being here is to make such a presentation to the City Commission and
as I understand the assignment, although I haven't seen it in writing,
is that in effect, the Dolphins are assigned the lease, however the
Restaurant Associates are still responsible to operate under the lease
and both parties now are required to make the various reports to the
City Commission as required by the lease. Am I correct in that?
Mr. Paul: That's correct Mr. Rothstein. Instead of having one string
to your bow, you now have two. You have the responsibility of the
Dolphins as well as the Restaurant Associates.
Mr.Reese: Mr. Mayor, it isn't a matter of having two people reporting
but there are other provisions and conditions in that contract other
than just the reporting.
For an example, there is provisions in there that commodities to be
sold in that Stadium have to meet certain standards and certain criteria.
They have to be submitted for approval and the City Administration is
responsible for administering this contract.
Mrs. Gordon: The way I understand it, nothing is being changed
as far as the terms of the original agreement except that a half -interest
in the original agreement is being assigned to the Dolphins and that
wouldn't change the original agreement as far as we are concerned.
They are both liable to us.
Mr. Klepper: Nothing is being changed but the same relationship
between the City and us will continue.
If the City has any complaints, the City will be dealing with us.
Mrs. Gordon: Financially or otherwise.
Mr. Klepper: That is correct.
Mr. Reese: Haw binding are you to stay in there as the Manager?
How binding is it on you?
Mr. Klepper: I am as bound to the Dolphins as the Dolphins are to us.
Mr. Reese: Are you still going to put up the advancement of the
$150,000?
Mr. Klepper: All the. obligations of the agreement are assumed by the
Dolphins but that does not relieve us of the obligation.
Mayor Ferre: That is very important. In other words, you remain -
Mr. Reese's point is very valid and the point is that you remain and -
Mr. Klepper: Our obligation continues as it always did.
Mayor Ferre: And your obligation continues so now instead of having
one obligation, we have two.
Mr. Rothstein: That has to be -
Mr. Klepper: As a matter of law but we are perfectly willing to
have it out -
Mayor Ferre: This is something that the City Attorney has to work out.
Mrs. Gordon: Mr. Mayor, I would like to move this subject to the
proper instruments being drawn and the approval of our Law Department.
Mr. Rothstein: If you wait just a few minutes, we will put in the
other paragraph.
Mayor Ferre: We can't do that Mr. Rothstein.
Mr. Rothstein: No, I mean, they can wait.
Mayor Ferre: Then we can come back to it, that's fine.
5-MINUTE RECESS
109
JUL 2 61973
65. CLAIM SETTLEMENT - TANIA JIMENEZ
The following resolution was introduced by Mr. Plummer who
moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 73-622
A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE DIRECTOR OF FINANCE
TO PAY TO TANIA JIMENEZ, A MINOR, BY AND THROUGH
HER MOTHER AND NEXT FRIEND, MARIA JIMENEZ, AND
MARIA JIMENEZ, INDIVIDUALLY, THE SUM OF $3,000.00
PLUS TAXABLE COSTS IN THE AMOUNT OF $85.00 ,IN
FULL AND COMPLETE SATISFACTION OF A JUDGMENT
ENTERED IN THE CIRCUIT COURT, IN AND FOR DADE
COUNTY, FLORIDA, IN FAVOR OF SAID PLAINTIFF AND
AGAINST THE CITY OF MIAMI, FLORIDA
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here and on file
in the City Clerks Office)
Upon being seconded by Mr. Reboso, the resolution was passed
and adopted by the following vote - AYES: Messrs. Plummer, Reboso,
Mrs. Gordon, Reverend Gibson and Mayor Ferre: NOES: None
66, ACCEPT PLAT -SOUTH BAYSHORE DRIVE SUBDIVISION-DiscussioN ONLY
A gentleman appeared representing Ryder Systems, the entity
that filed the plat and requested acceptance of the plat entitled
South Baysiiore Drive Subdivision. It was approved by the Staff,
the Planning Board and other necessary governmental agencies but
stated technical objections were raised today by the City Attorney.
He requested the plat be approved and the resolution be adopted
subject to our fulfilling any requirements. of the City Attorney
between now and September when the matter goes before the County
Commission.
Mr. Plummer: Maybe I am under a misconception. Mr. Triester, by
virtue of you being involved, is this the building on the corner or
is this where the old alliance building was?
Mr. Triester: This is the property of the old alliance building.
Mr. Plummer: I was confused. I thought it was your buildings on
the corner.
Mr. Ttiester: No, no Sir.
Mrs. Gordon: Mr. Ferencik is here.
Mayor Ferre: Mr. Ferencik? Go ahead Commissioner Gordon.
Mrs. Gordon: Will you explain to us about these problem areas?
Mr. Ferencik: Mrs. Gordon, I think you should let the City Attorney
do this. This is a legal matter in reference to the plat.
Mayor Ferre: Mr. Attorney, the chair recognizes you.
110
JUL 2 61973
Mr. Rothstein: There is a problem and as you noted, there is no
resolution in your book approved by any of my staff or myself as
required by the charter.
The reason that this has not been approved is, while these gentlemen
are here requesting the approval of a plat called the -
SOUTH BAYSHORE DRIVE SUBDIVISION, in order to be able to have an
approval of the plat, they have to have, all contiguous property.
In order to have the contiguous property, they have done the following:
They are apparently taking a piece of property from the Sailboat Bay
Subdivision, attaching it to the middle of the South Bayshore Drive
property to give them one piece and now going to give back a piece
of property contiguous to Sailboat Bay property to become part of
that subdivision because if they don't do that, Sailboat Bay would
have to lose its certificate of occupancy because they need that
middle as presently in their plat for their Floor Area Ratio.
Their problem is that they came here for approval of this
particular plat. I cannot authorize a resolution approving it at this
point because before they can do that, they have to have a re -plat,
an amended plat of Sailboat Bay Subdivision both according to the
County Code and according to our own Section 11 of our Ordinance on
Page 16 of the Zoning Code. Article IV which requires re -platted lots
in all districts of the City, no tract or parcel shall be divided into
two or more lots or tracts, however designated unless and until an
amended plat has been recorded.
Their problem is that they can't do what they want to do until
they go through several other steps first and therefore, I can't
approve the plat.
Mr. Triester: What we would like to request is a conditional approval
of the resolution conditioned upon our fulfilling all obligations
imposed and conditions imposed by the City Attorney.
Mr. Rothstein: There is no way that you can do that because one of the
items that are required before they can proceed is that this Commission
approve an amended plat of Sailboat Bay to give up a certain piece and
take over another piece and or waive those requirements which you can't
do until its an agenda item and its not on this agenda and you can't
do till it goes back through the regular plat committee procedure and
there is technically no alternative, so there is no way you can pass
something conditioned on something else. There is no way.
You can't tell me this is okay if we later okay something else.
You are just going to have to go through the process and then come back
with this one.
Unfortunately you don't have anything to act on because neither my
staff nor myself will approve a resolution approving this plat because
of the circumstances which I have mentioned.
Mr. Triester: The Ryder System that owned the property went
through the staff, the engineering department of the City of Miami,
the Planning Department, the Building Department and I think have had
conversations with the legal department now for 3 months.
It's been approved by the Plat Committee who are people that have been
in the employ of the City for many years, know the rules and regulations,
and here at the llth hour or the I2th hour_, when it is agendad
for routine approval of accepting of a plat, that the City Attorney
says you cannot do it. I think as a citizen and not as a lawyer that
something is wrong. Either all the other approvals have been in error
or the City Attorney wasn't represented at the Plat Committee approval
or this new ruling is in error but in any event, I think it would be
fair for the City Commission to approve it subject to the City Attorney
re-evaluating these ideas.
Now, with all respect to the City Attorney, Mr. Strickrude? who
represents Ryder and Mr. Bob who represents myself
are of the legal opinion that titerpretation is in error.
Now if it is not in error, and I think then the approval today would
not be counted and the City Attorney would be correct but if he finds
tomorrow that he is in error, I would like to have this approved now.
The penalty for us in not approving it now means that we waste the
month of August and September. We then have to go after this to the
County for approval and both of our attorneys have said that during
the month of August, all these problems can be rectified and I might
111 JUL 2 61973
4
•
also mention that Mr. Moore who is not an attorney, represents -
Biscayne Engineering Company which has been in business since 1915
and if you go to their offic you will see pictures of the harbor
of Miami when they had sailing schooners,prepared this plat and
feels like it is in order and feels like there is no precedent for
the position that we can't proceed now.
Now I am not trying to say that we can but I would like the opportunity
to legally decide it in the next few weeks and if it is true that
the plat was properly prepared and the Planning Board acted properly
and the Plat Committee acted properly, that we not be penalized and
be held up and on the other hand if everybody acted improperly, then
we will have to go through the procedures again, but I really think
its unfair at this time to bring up new items which have already
been approved in many cases.
Mr. Rothstein: I may call to the Commission's attention that it is
not the responsibility of Administration people in the City of Miami
nor is it the responsibility of the City Attorney's Staff to advise
people who want to act in conjunction with City Ordinances or County
Codes as to how they are supposed to proceed legally.
#1, With all due respect to Mr. Moore, Mr. Moore says that this is a
good plat. I am sure it is a good plat. It's been approved by the
Plat Committee. That is not his problem. Their problem is legally
they can't get approval of a plat that is based on a subdividing of
another plat without first having filed an amended plat. Our City
Ordinance is so clear as to allow no, in any way, no thought of any
other way. There is just no question about it and as to its being
on the agenda. This is one of the problems we are faced with.
If you will look at your agenda,`you will see it has 3 stars next to
it. That means these gentlemen were requesting that it he put on.
Our office said, we are not approving so you can't put it on from our
point of view. They insisted they would like to come before the
Commission because they felt they could clear up all the problems
before the Comunission agenda came so its there with 2 asterisks.
Now they can't clear up the problems as far as we are concerned because
there is a law both City and County that is applicable and there is no
way to do it. They were advised by our staff, certainly a week ago.
Mr. Triester: The first knowledge of any of these objections that
have been raised today was this afternoon. George from our firm
has met on numerous occasions with representatives of the City
including the City Attorneys Office.
Mr. Plummer: Wait just a minute Sir. Would you repeat your last
statement?
Mr. Triester: Strickroot.
Mr. Plummer: Did I understand you correctly to say that the first
you were notified of this was when?
Mr. Triester: This afternoon.
Mr. Plummer: Now hold up. Now as I recall Mrs. Gordon raising these
questions 2 weeks ago, part of the direction was that the owners be
notified then. Am I incorrect Mr. Rothstein?
Mr. Rothstein: I believe so, I couldn't
Mrs. Gordon: May I clarify the statements that are being made?
I had no knowledge of what is being spoken about now. I raised a
different point. The point I raised was one with regard to the
Interim Zoning application being applied to this property since this
property had not yet begun to be built, I questioned whether or not
it fell within the purview of that interim zoning and I questioned it
because of the fact that there was a new plat being put on record, not
knowing there was a flaw in the plat. I didn't know that until today.
Unintelligible conversation - several persons speaking at once.
Mr. Plummer: I remember the people were to he notified immediately,
and that's why I am questioning why it wasn't.
112
•
Rev. Gibson: But Mr. Mayor, didn't Mr. Ferencik tell us that there
was already an existing building permit?
Isn't that correct Sir?
Mr. Rothstein: A foundation permit.
Rev. Gibson: Right and I would like to put it all on the table
and let us all speak to it. Isn't that correct? Speak to it Sir.
Mr. Ferencik: That's right Canon Gibson. There was an existing permit
on this site which existed since the memorandum I gave you -
Mrs. Gordon: Tell us if this wasn't a permit that was issued on the
original site? Not on a re -platted site or not on a large site or
whatever?
Mr. Ferencik: The original permit authorized the construction of a
figures could give or take a little bit, a 7-story 200,000 sq.ft.
office building.
Mrs. Gordon: That is not what we are discussing today, are we?
Mr. Ferencik: No Ma'am but the permits, the revised foundation permit
that was, or site development permit that was issued with relation to,
this building was issued prior to the effective date of the interim
zoning ordinance.
Mrs. Gordon: The original foundation permit was issued but it was not
issued on this new size and shape of land.
Mr. Ferencik: Yes Ma'am, it was issued on the condition that this
re -platting be accomplished.
Mrs. Gordon: Oh. to effect its in limbo.
Mr. Ferencik: Well we have issued a site development permit and quite
obviously and evidently, there is a big hole in the ground over there
and that excavation really started before we issued this permit which
was predicated on a previous permit we issued last September.
Mrs. Gordon: Predicated on a plat that was not approved.
Mr. Ferencik: Well now our site development permit was issued with the
express understanding, Mr. Triester will bear this out, that we had this
understanding, that we would not issue the final building permit unless
and until, a revised plat or a re -plat of the property was approved
through this Commission level. At that point the plat will be what
you call a tentative plat and we would issue a permit at that time on
the balance of the building.
Mr. Rothstein: Mr. Mayor, with all due respect to Mr. Triester and
his statements about their not knowing and they didn't know until
this afternoon. On the 24th of July, 1973, which was 3 days ago, a
letter from Mr. Fowler White and Mr. Turner of our office who has been
handling this, under my guidance and direction but there have been a
lot of handling meeting by meeting. They make a statement here and
this is the key to all the things I have been saying about.
A Waiver of a plat has already been approved by the City and County
as to Goldberg's conveyance to Ryder. Now he says this in his letter
3 days ago because Mr. Turner under my direction, had raised that
problem with them about the waiver of the plat that is required in
order to have that deed go from Goldberg to them.
Now they have based their assumption, they assume, Fowler White assumed
that there was a waiver of plat from this letter but, and that's why
it got on the agenda because they said there is a waiver of plat but
there is no waiver of plat by the County or by the City so that's
why I can't approve it.
They knew about it. They were cognizant of it and they knew.
113 JUL 261973
• •
Mayor Ferre: Look, I thought this matter was going to be a
item. We have got to move on.
Mr. Rothstein: I have told you that I haven't approved the
and you can't act.
Mayor Ferre:
shorter
resolution
There is no way to act so you understand where we stand?
Mr. Triester: As far as the waiver of plat is concerned, George
from our firm is over at the county an hour ago to try to pick one
up and bring it over .
67. RATIFYING THE STIPULATION OF SETTLEMENT- BOBBLE ET.AL v.THE CITY
OF MIAMI ET.AT. RESTAURANT ASSOCIATES, MIAMI DOLPHINS ETC.
Mr. Rothstein: We have added into the assignment and assumption
agreement and we can pass this out to the Commission, one paragraph
that says:
4A. The Assignor which is Restaurant Associates agrees that
it shall continue all of its obligations under the
aforesaid agreement and that this assignment in no way
shall relieve it of any of its obligations in this
agreement with the City of Miami.
Then insofar as the stipulation, we have said the following:
This document is an additional stipulation and agreement
by and between the parties hereto, in addition to that
stipulation dated July 10, 1973, heretofore filed in the
above captioned cause.
The plaintiffs, Joseph Robbie and South Florida Sports
Corporation as general partners of and in behalf of the
Miami Dolphins Ltd., a limited partnership and intervene
Restaurant Associate Industries Inc., a Delaware Corporation
stipulate and agree that the City Commission of the City
of Miami and the City Manager of the City of Miami did
at all times with which this lawsuit is concerned, and
during all the acts and things which are set forth in
the complaint, acted lawfully and properly in the
Charter of the City of Miami and the laws of the State of
Florida and the Constitution of the State of Florida.
Signed by the attorney for -
Mayor Ferre: Does that cover all the points mentioned?
Mr. Rothstein: This covers all.
Mayor Ferre: Mr. Reese, .have you seen a copy of this?
Mr. Reese: No Sir.
Mayor Ferre: Would you give a copy to Mr. Reese.
Mr. Southern: The Clerk didn't get a copy either.
Mrs. Gordon: If this is satisfactory, I will then move it as I said
before.
Mayor Ferre: Is there a second to the motion?
Rev. Gibson: Second.
Mayor Ferre: Further discussion? Mr. Reese? Call the roll please.
114 JUL 261973
Mr. Southern: Mr. City Attorney, is this the resolution that was
passed out to us earlier?
Mayor Ferre: No Sir, this is a substitute resolution.
Mr. Southern: Well what I have here is an assignment and assumption
agreement.
Mr. Rothstein: The resolution is now okay because we have added to
the, so its a substitute.
Mayor Ferre: Its an addition to the first.
Mr. Rothstein: What I just gave you should be attached to the resolution.
Mr. Southern: Then we use the same resolution.
Mr. Rothstein: Correct.
The following resolution was introduced by Mrs. Gordon who
moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 73-623
A RESOLUTION RATIFYING THE STIPULATION OF SETTLE-
MENT DATED JULY 10, 1973 IN ROBBIE ET AL v.
CITY OF MIAMI, ET.AL, DIRECTING THE EXECUTION OF
AMENDMENT NO. 1 TO THE LEASE BETWEEN RESTAURANT
AND WALDORF ASSOCIATES, INC., AND THE CITY, AND
CONSENTING TO THE ASSIGNMENT OF SUCH LEASE AS
AMENDED TO MIAMI DOLPHINS LTD., ALL OF THE TERMS
SET FORTH IN SUCH STIPULATION OF SETTLEMENT
(here follows body of resolution, omitted here and on
file in the City Clerks Office)
Upon being seconded by Reverend Gibson, the resolution was
passed and adopted by the following vote AYES: Messrs. Plummer,
Reboso, Mrs. Gordon, Reverend Gibson and Mayor Ferre. NOES: None
Mayor Ferre: Mr. Paul with that discussionfor your information on
the letter which you have written me regarding the question of
beverage in th^ Orange Bowl, that is an administrative matter and is
in Mr.Reese's hands and he will be writing you on the matter.
115
JUL 2 61973
l 1
68, ADVISORY ARBITRATION AWARD OF AMERICAN FEDERATION OF STATE, COUNTY
AND MUNICIPAL EMPLOYEES, LOCAL 654, AND THE CITY OF MIAMI:
Mayor Ferre: State jour name for the record, please.
Mr. Joseph H. Kaplan:M4y name is Joseph H. Kaplan, and I
represent the union. I was under the impression after talking
to Joel Lankin there would be another matter which would grow
out of the subject which is on your agenda, and I understand
this would be brought up so, ---
Mayor Ferre: What are you referring to Joe?,
Mr. Kaplan: The terms of the collective bargainii._,- agmt. that
has been worked out or will be worked out or will be worked
out at the completeion, I hope, of my appearance here today..
I'll give you a slight statement of the history of what this
problem is all about. Last year, should I continue?
Mayor Ferre: Yes, go right ahead.
Mr. Kaplan:Last year, the City and the Unions entered
into negotiations for a collective bargaining agreement to
run from October 1 1972 to September 30, 1973. Sometime in
December of 1972 an impasse was reached in bargaining between
the City and the Union. Pursuant to the resolution which this
City Commission passed last year, favoring advisory arbitration
in the event there qas an impasse in collective bargaining
negotiations, an arbitration of procedure was followed. A hearing
was held approximately in the month of February of 1972. The City
employed the services of an outside labor lawyer to represent the
City and the impartial arbitrator was selected from the panel
of the American Arbitration Association, Professor Vatican.
Sometime in May, I believe May 23, 1973 Professor Vatican
rendered his decision. Now that decision involved five impasse
collective bargaining items. All the other items that had been
negotiated between the parties had been agreed to. The only
impasse items involved five, of the five, the Union lost one
item, which involved the question of the payment of Union
offices for performing business during City ticre.Of the other
four,the arbitrator rendered a decision and made certain recom-
«e�..:ations. Following May 23, Mr. Lankin and representatives of
the Union and myself met in Mr. Lankin's office for the purpose
of resolving those four items. It was my impression that we made
an agreement, that is, the Union accepted the arbitrator's decision
on the one item it lost. On the second item involving time and half
the Union had lost two of the three items it had requested. For
example, it requested that time and half ---
Mayor Ferre: We are two and a half hours behind. I don't
want to cut you short, ---
Mr. Kaplan: I don't know how else to present it except to
give you the history, Mayor.
Mayor Ferre: Try to make it as short as you can. a brief
history of what happened.
Mr. Kaplan : We sat in negotiations and of the three time
and half items. the Union lost two, retroactivity of time and half
and time and a half for holiday pay. Mr. Lankin agreed with us that
time and a half would be acceptable to him, understanding that this
would have to go through administration and be approved by you. On
the other items, prevailing benefits, there was some disagreement
of language . On the item of check off, Mr. Lankin agreed with us
NOTF- NO "Fe // 117 7/26/73
•
in accordance with the provisions of the arbitrator's decision.
On the fifth items involving reinstatement of the compensatory
time bank which you had had in existence for some ten years,
and you unilaterially cut off in December of 1972,-the arbitrators
made some modifications of that and asked for reinstatement of it
with certain modifications, Mr. Lankin and I disagreed. Mr. Lankin
has given to me his language for the three items. One of the three
items includes the fourth item, so actually there are four items..
We have prepared a contract, I have copies of it here for the City
Commissioners, which include those four items in the language that
we request. It appears that on the agenda for your consideration
is the adoption of the arbitrator's decision. We would only ask
at this time for consideration, --we are willing now at this point
to accept Mr. Lankin's language on all of the items except the
reinstatement of the comp -time bank. That's all, and if you give
me five minutes to argue our position , if you accept my position,
fine ---if you reject it fine, I'll accept Mr. Lankin's language.
Because we have no place to go.
I am under the impression that the terms of the arbitrator's
award, with whatever modifications I can make with you today,is
up for your consideration. By talking to Mr. Reese I am also of
the impression Mr. Reese's office is not accepting what Mr. Lankin
worked out.
Mayor Ferre: Mr. Kaplan, let me ask you, ---
Mr. Kaplan: Yes, sir.
Mayor Ferre: You are a union attorney?
Mr. Kaplan: Yes, sir.
Mayor Ferre: You,I4m sure have handled matters on many
occasions where the effectiveness of a person is in question
beyond the 8 or 10 hours that he has been working, right?
We have been working on this Commission since 9 otlock this
morning. You can see sometimes our minds wander a little bit
and we are not hearing every word you are saying. I am not
saying in criticism of anybody here, but just recognition of
a reality.
Mr. Kaplan: Yes, sir I see that.
Mayor Ferre: And I think that we had better come to
quick grips with basic issues, ---
Mr. Kaplan: I am all through with my presentation.
Mayor Ferre: -and let Mr Reese say what he has to say,
and see where we move from there.
Mr. Kaplan; I am through with my presentation. The issue
very simply is, when you accept the terms of the arbitrator's
decision, with on the four points, and now an issue, with my
representation we are willing to accept the language that your
negotiator Mr. Lankin drafted, if you let me hopefully, try to
get one item changed. That is it.
Mayor Ferre: We are going to recognize Mr. Reese now and
then I will recognize you for that one item. Go ahead Mr. Reese.
Mr. Reese: Mr, Mayor and members of the Commission, this
Commission has previously passed a resolution directing the
administration or the City Manager to enter into negotiations
7/26/73
118
with the different organizations within the City of Miami employees.
Mr. Lankin was Pssigned to this position, he is attached to my office
and also Mr. Lankin has operated under the theme that he will
endeavor to negotiate, and come back with recommendations, and
Mr. Lankin in no way is obligated or can obligate the City any
more than I can because when it comes to determination of obligating
the City that rests with this City Commission, and this advisory
arbitration procedure that was followed was done with the sole
purpose of conforming to all the possible steps necessary in order to
have it before this City Commission. At this particular moment, if
I understand the Manager's position, he is obligated to make his
recommendations to the City Commission, and my position cannot
change because it was reviewed by an arbitration board any more
than it can be changed in any other recommendation I would make
to the City Commission.
The number one issue remains to be resolved is the question
concerning over -time. The attorney representing the City stated
this in this manner concerning over -time. Does the City Manager's
office recommmend to the City Commission to adopt the advisory
award, in whole or in part, on in modification, is there money
to fund the added cost. When will a new policy be effective)
Number two, with reference to over -time and compensatory time
adoption, although the award technically applies to only the
number represented by AFSCME, the City may want to apply the
benefits if adopted to all City employees. Any benefit you adopt,
I like to bring to your attention, it has been the policy in the
past that that benefit would apply to all city employees, so that
question was raised, has been answered by previous policy.
Indeed, theobligation for compensation for uniform like
service in each grade, may require application across the board
to all employees. Also to be considered is the fact that the
Police have been holding back on proceeding to advisory
arbitration, in support of their demand for time and a half,waiting
for the issuance of an instant advisory board award and the City
Commission's action thereof.
I would like to point out the City Commission pertaining
to over -time on time and a half. At the present time, in preparing
the budget for 1973-74, estimating over -time, we are talking about
a budget for over -time alone, at straight time in excess of $700,000.
Everybody can arrive at conclusions pretty quickly of what it would
cost for time- and a half. And to demonstrate why it is at
$700,000. this year, last year we budgeted $440,000. for overtime
and we ran out of overtime. In fact we ran out of it six weeks ago
and we are endeavoring to try to limp along and do all kinds of
activities and try to closeout the year without over -expending.
I just want to bring it to the City Commission's attention
that this a fundamental economic problem we are faced with and I
don't see how this City at this time can economically afford or
anticipate anybody to fund a budget that can reflect this type
of monetary consideration for time and a half for the employees
to benefit by this. I think I've heard all the arguments that
has been brought forth from time to time pertaining to the funds
and practice that is carried out by other political jurisdictions.
I recognize those practices, I recognize the methods the other
jurisdictions using for funding their budget, and other considerations.
But we are endeavoring to make our dollar meet the needs of the City
of Miami, and I can assure you the budget you are going to review
for 1973 and 1974 has no place in it whatsoever to get any money
that is going to come up with money representing an additional
$400,000.
Mayor Ferre: Mr. Reese, let me interrupt you in the interest
of time. When is it we are going to be taking up budget hearings
for the first time?
7/26/73
119
•
Mr. Reese: The budget will submitted to you I hope no
later than August 3. The first time you will take it up would
be September 13 and at which time you would set all your
hearing dates for the budget.
Mayor Ferre: I think this is a matter of substance and
importance, Mr. Kaplan, ---
Mr. Kaplan: Mr. Mayor, if you let me interrupt you Sir,
I am afraid Mr. Reese has'misled you. This involves the 72-73
Contract that this union began negotiating in the summer of
1972 and has not yet reached a solution on. This has nothing
to do with the 1973-74 contract.
Mayor Ferre: Excuse me Mr. Reese, obviously if we accept
this, it sets a precedent for the 1973 budget which we are going
to be taking up in September. There is nothing I think at this
point that we are going to do on '72, at this point. I realize
what you are telling me, that is eomething we are going to have
to take up as we move along on this. If it is acceptable to this
Commission and we accept it, it is going to greatly
affect the budget hearings of September 13,----
Mr. Kaplan: But it is still your choice in the budget hearings
to decide what you are going to do for '73'74.
Mayor Ferre: It always has been.I understand.
Mr. Kaplan: Yes, sir. But we are not talking about that.
Mayor Ferre: And believe me, that's the way it is going to
be at this Commission meeting in September 13.
Mr. Kaplan: Mr. Mayor,we are not talking about that .
Mayor Ferre: That's what I'm talking about.
Mr. Kaplan: The decision of the arbitrator was, ---
addressed it self, to the request of the union to have time
and a half over time going back to 1972. The arbitrator rejected
the union's request for retroactive overtime, and said on May 23,
it is the impartial Chairman's opinion, the union proposal as
modified above should be adopted retrospectively without undue
delay. Now, that was May 23 and when Joel Lankin and I met,
and the union met, we agreed, and it is in his typewriter,
City's typewriter, we agreed that overtime provisions can
go into effect on July 26, 1973 which just happens to be today.
In other words, we are talking about an event that negotiated
some two weeks ago to begin today. To defer this to September
would mean, in my judgement, an unjust treatment of theemployees
since the contract only runs to October 1st and we are only talking
about that contract.
Mayor Ferre: We are not talking about that contract and
you know it as well as I do. We are talking about that contract
and every other contract after that, and you know that well, so
that's my pbint, and I go back to what the City Manager just told
you as to the effect of the impact on the money. I am not saying
I am against it. I haven't stated my position on this, but I think
what the Manager is saying has to be taken into consideration by
this Commission. Now if somebody wants to overrule that, the chair
is open for any recommendation by the City Commission.
Mr. Kaplan: Mr. Mayor, may I speak to you? Let me point out
to you that it was this Commission,---
120 7/26/73
• 1
Mayor Ferre: Mr. Kaplan, let me run the meeting now. I've
asked to see if there are any members of the Commission who wish
to be heard on this item at this time, anybody wart ---
Mr. Plummer: Mr. Mayor, it is nice to say these things and
know what we are doing here and I'll have to admit to you that
I did not read the full report of the arbitrator, and I admit
that. Mr. Mayor, you were not sitting here, and I don't know
that any of you were sitting here when this thing first went
into effect because I was, and the thing that is bothering me
was, that we did not finalize the portion pertaining to them,
and gave them an open-end so they could go to this advisory arbi-
tration. Now, what do we accomplish Mr. Mayor because this is
based on a '72 -'73, is that correct?,
Mr. Kaplan: Yes, sir.
Mr. Plummer: I understand that this definitely will have
a bearing on the 73-74 but what I fail to see is this, how
can we even sit down to start talking about the 73-74 until
we have finalized the 72-73? Do you understand what I'm saying
Sir, ---
Mayor Ferre:I understand, Mr. Reese is going to answer you, --
Mr. Reese: I hope, Mr. Mayor that in my explanation, it
was nice of the Attorney to cut in and tell you what I was talking
about, but I pointed out that at the present time, over 6 weeks ago
we ran out of every dollar we had budgeted for overtime, --over
6 weeks ago, which means in the 72-73 budget, that's what we
are living in right now, how in the world can you consider, ---
Mayor Ferre: Let me remind my fellow commissioners Mr.
Plummer, that as I remember the Charter we cannot go into a
deficit budget.
Mr. Plummer: Mr. Mayor, I :understand all that, I under
stand the point of Mr. Reese, and very simply Mr. Reese is
saying that what they have suggested that we arbitrate over,
we can't afford, Mr. Mayor, may I finish please, what
I am saying is this, the facts of life are there, now Mr. Kaplan
might not like the facts of life, but I say to him and I say
to my fellow Commissioners that this decision has got to be reached
before you go into the new budget, Sir. Now, if the facts of life
are that the money is not there, and the Manager has told you,
he is operating on a shoe string, that these are the facts of
life. Now I would like to say this, Mr. Kaplan, Sir this Commission
has always bent over backwards for the employees and sometimes
been criticized too much so, andlspeak very recently of the
raises that we gave to the employees. You have heard what the
City Manager has said. No one has ever disputed that 82% of our
budget goes for salary. Now, what I am saying is this, if you
dispute the City Manager, that funds are not available is what
he says, and you say they are, then I say to you Mr. Kaplan, it
behooves you and who you represent to come before the Commission
and show us where the Manager is wrong. Now, that is what I'm saying.
But I also say Mr. Mayor, before you can ever enter into a contract
that is to exist next year, how can you do it without clarifying
and setting the example for last year. That is the only point I am
raising?
Mr. Kaplan: Mr. Plummer, in response to what you are saying
let me say this, you were here last year when the subject of
arbitration to resolve labor disputes between the City and Unions
or employee groups arose. It was the unanimous endorsement of this
121
7/26/73
• •
body to encourage both sides to resolve their conflicts with
arbitration. Now, the Union spent thousands of dollars, the
City spent thousands of dollars. The hearing lasted several
days. The arbitrator's bill was several thousand dollars, in
order to get the parties to the baragining table. The arbitrator
rendered his report on May 23, I immediately wrote a letter to
the City and asked to sit down and implement the arbitrated decision
and didn't get to sit with the City until two weeks ago, and two
weeks ago, sat with andeagreed with the time and a half for
overtime for the employees. Mr. Lankin and I agreed to it, at
no time was it ever said that the City could not afford to pay
the time and a half. Mr. Reese's statement at this moment is
the very first time that it has come to our attention. All I
know is we did everything this City asked us to do, including
sitting down to implement the arbitrator's decision. We still
do not have a contract that we deadlcbeked with in 1972, for
the City to take the position that these people should wait
another day to get a contract after the arbitrator's decision
came out in May, we think is unfair. We might point out one
more thing, if in fact there is no more over -time money in the
budget, then don't work employees overtime. It is that simple.
If you don't have a dollar in the overtime budget, how you pay
even straight time for over. All this decision called for was
time and onehalf for overtime. If you accept Mr. Reese's statement
that you don't have any money for overtime, then you are not going
to be paying the first penny to anybody and although we sign a
contract, the City won't pay anything, so the City won't suffer
n any way. I accept the fact you've got no money in overtime
budget, you don't work anybody overtime. I might add, ---
Mr. Reese: Mr. Mayor, I don't think it is the prerogative
of the Attorney representing these people to make such positive
administrative statement without assuming the full responsibility
as well as making these statements. And there are people working
overtime, there are people who have agreed that they would work
overtime on compensatory basis and they also agreed that they
would take this compensatory leave within 90 days after Octdber 1,
so they are going to be compensated by compensatory leave, but to
say and use the word arbitration, and they arbitrate it, what they
did, but it is only advisory, it isn't compulsory and it isn't
binding, ---
Mayor Ferre: I understand that Mr. Reese,-- and another
Matter is very, very clear, Mr. Kaplan is an extremely able
attorney and he argues very well, and I commend you for your
strong presentation here today. I think the matter is very
clear as far as this Commission is concerned, we understand
whether or not it is compulsory or not, the matter is still
pending before us, and I think what Mr. Kaplan said is accurate
and it is matter, ---I understand what you are saying --it is
a matter of faith. It is the first time this has been brought
to your attention. It was not brought up during the arbitration
procedures. We understand your point. We also understand Mr.
Reese's point, that it is not binding and the basic fact that
this point according to Mr. Reese, we have to take a face value
as we always do. There are no funds available. We understand your
point of how that has nothing to do with the F.hilosophy of what
has been arbitrated and the final agreement, that Dr. Vatican
came up with.
Mr. Kaplan: So, Mr. Mayor, may I speak please. There is
more than that involved. There is the good things of the City
Commission involved. The City Commission told the parties to
7/26/73
•
arbitrate their disputes. The parties arbitrated in February,
a decision was rendered in May, your negotiator, Mr. Lankin
and I agreed the overtime would begin effective July 26,1973,---
Mayor Ferre: That is a valid point Mr. Kaplan, ---
Mr. Kaplan: --and we ask you merely to implement the
agreement.
Mayor Ferre: That is a valid point.
Mr. Kaplan: If you expect the employees in this City
represented by my client to go to the expense in the future
to arbitrate a labor dispute, and have the City go to the
expense of arbitrating, and be treated in this fashion, after
an agreement was worked and was agreed to, it was made between
all parties then you are asking for, I believe for the parties
in the future in the event they reach a deadlock to use other
methods except the intelligent and peaceful method of collective
bargaining, and arbitration in the event of a dispute. There
are law suits that can be filed. The school board has seen
law suits.
Mayor Ferre: Mr. Kaplan, you have made your point, it is
a valid point. Now, you've said it before, this is repeating it
and it is now almost 6:00 o'clock.
Mr. Kaplan: I can't be responsible for the time Mr. Mayor.
I am doing my best to present my position.
Mayor Ferre: And can't either Mr Kaplan. So let's see if
we can move ahead. Maybe the Commission might have thoughts
about it, because I think we ought to bring it to a head and
make the decision tonight. Is there anybody on the Commission
that wants to make a resolution one way or the other?
Mr. Plummer: I'd like to ask this question if I can, because
I'm groping in the dark. Mr. Reese, you have heard the statements
of Mr. Kaplan that if we do accept the time and a half feature
that was arbitrated back aid forth, it is only a matter of policy
if you don't implement it, it doesn't cost you anything. What
are your thoughts on that_Sir?
Mr. Reese: I don't agree with that, and I can't accept it.
Mr. Kaplan:What I said is , if Mr. Reese said there is
no money to pay overtime, then in fact he won't be working
anybody to pay overtime, but if he is working somebody to
pay overtime, the rate is simply half time more than he is
paying now. If it is comp.time he is going to give the people,
which means he has to pay it before the end of the year, or
they can carry it over to next year, then your comp time it
at additional half time. That's all it amounts to.
Mr. Reese: This is not the way it was worked out with
the people who are putting in the overtime. It is still straight
comp. time for straight time work.
Mr. Kaplan: Mr. Plummer, I think the important thing is
that the argument of Mr. Reese, which was presented by Mr. Lankin
and Mr. , to the arbitrator was rejected by the arbitra-
tor. That same argument that you can't afford it, ---
Mr. Plummer: ---let's you and I travel on the same pretense
because I think Mr. Reese has made a very valid statement, that
some reason you don't want to accept, and I can maybe understand it.
123 7/26/73
Mr. Lankin is only a designated representative of Mr. Reese,
who in fact, Mr. Reese is a designated representative of this
Commission.
Mr. Kaplan: That's why I'm here.
Mr. Plummer: Right. But let's go ur::er that pretense.
Mr. Kaplan: Yes, sir.
Mr. Plummer: What Mt. Lankin says to you is definitely ---
has to be ratified by this Commission.
Mr. Kaplan: I understand that.
Mr. Plummer: Okay, so as long as we understand that
pretense.
Mr. Kaplan: Let me again make one additional point.
We see the terrible difficulties the School Board is having
with the C.T.A. and the American Federation of Teachers
because they can't get together in an intelligent way. They
can't agree over a bargaining table, they can't agree to
arbitration and the case is ending up in the Florida Supreme
Court. Now if that is the kind of litigation that must inevitibly
result from collective bargaining negotiations with the City,
I am all prepared for it. I am .a lawyer and get paid for what
I do, but I am urging this City Commission to accept the principles
that you adopted last year to allow the parties to resolve their
difficulties and the parties to resolve their difficulties over
the arbitration table is the way to do it, and you don't wait
until the llth hour when his associate, his employee, the man
who works under him agrees to July 26 for overtime and he comes
in when I present it to you for approval, and says he can't
afford it for the very first time we hear that, ---that's nonsense.
Mr. Ferre has engaged in collective bargaining negotiations in
the past. In the private sector this would be a clear unfair
labor practice. I can't understand anybody doing this. We didn't
hear Mr. Lankin say it, we didn't hear Mr. say it. We hear
it at the last minute. That's nonsense. How could I refute it
except that while I am standing here on my feet to try to think
of some argument from the top of my head. The important thing
is, if in fact there's no money, don't work employees overtime.
But accept the principle of time and a half, which was adopted'
by the arbitrator. That's all I'm asking you to do. Once you do
that then you have accepted a)1 of the terms and conditions of a
collective bargaining agreement.and we could sign it. There are
more conditions to that agreement than overtime, but we don't
have a contract, because we've been waiting in good faith for
the arbitrator's decision and then we waited in good faith to
meet with Mr. Lankin, and now we are waiting in good faith for
you people to act.
Mayor Ferre: We are, (inaudible remark) no we
are not at an impasse. The matter is very clear,. It is a matter
of making a decision now, I think this Commission has heard
enough. I think it is a very clearly stated difference of opinion
and I think this Commission now has to take a position of policy
as to what it is going to do, with a full understanding that this
is going to affect the millage rate when we come to a decision
on the millage rate this next September.
Mr. Kaplan: No, Mr. Mayor, I disagree with you.
7/26/73
124
Mayor Ferre: You may disagree, ---
Mr. Kaplan: You are free to negotiate it or not to negotiate.
If you negotiate it, fine, if you don't fine. We are talking
about the '72-73 contract.
Mayor Ferre: I am not knocking what you are saying, and
that's fine, and I'm going to tell you something. I think as
a matter of principle, that what you stated is correct. I think
that this Commission would be dead wrong in telling the administration
to go to arbitration, compulsory or not, and go to the procedure
of arbitration and having the arbitrator come back with a basic
document and for us to turn around without getting previous
notice, and say that we don't have any money. I don't agree with
that. Now, that doesn't negate the reality of the situation. The
reality of the situation is that Mr. Reese has clearly stated
that we don't have any money. Now, the other reality of the
situation is whether you want to accept it or nct , is what we
are talking about right now, is what the taxpayers of this
City are going to pay in this coming budget and the reality of
the millage that we have to vote on. That's what we are talking
about.
Mr. Kaplan: And I am saying, if you don't have the money
to work employees overtime at tima and a half, don't work them
overtime. It is that simple.
Mayor Ferre: I've been through this before. I sat through
this one three tines. It's a different circumstance. I sat
through this one before in three budget hearings, and it's
putting it down in its simplest formula, to its simplest terms,
we are now talking about the rights of the employees, which
I am not in any way questioning, for instance what the millage
is going to be this coming year.
Mr. Plummer: Mr. Kaplan, let me ask you this sir, ---
Mayor Ferre: Am I stating it wrong Mt Reese?
Mr. Reese: Yes, Mr. Mayor, but it isn't a matter that's ----
it is a matter of reality and at the time these people went into
arbitration, there was no way to project the financial situation
that we have right now. We just concluded working and closing the
budget last evening and at which time we then realized what the
shape of the City is.
Mr. Kaplan: Mr. Mayor, this City and the Union entered into
the agreement to pay an arbitrator. This City paid $1,772.00 for
an arbitrator's decision. Is it the intention of the City to
tear -up the arbitrator's award. The arbitrator said that this
arbitration decision is recommended for implementation without
undue delay. On May 23 I wrote to try to get us to do something,
I would have been here earlier than that, except we only agreed
two weeks ago, Joe Lankin and the Union, nowhere was there any
statement made about not beirg, if they didn't have the money
why didn't they say that before? Let's assume there is no money,
there's a solution to it, and I don't agree there's no money,but
I have no proof of it, except that was the same position Mr. Reese
made when he went to arbitration. He said there was no money, yet
there was money to give the employees a wage increase in the Yarger
Study. Mr. Reese has the opportunity to find all kinds of money
when he wants to. Mr. Reese was opposed to arbitration to state with,
but it was the will of this City Commission in an intelligent and
progressive way to encourage both sides, to spend the money and
go to the time and effort, sweat and blood to go through arbitration.
We did it and now we are here before you, we are not asking for the
125
7/26/63
whole hog.• We didn't get the whole hog in arbitration. We are
asking you to implement it, before the contract runs out.
Mayor Ferre: All right Mr. Reboso.
Mr. Reboso: Mr. Mayor, I think we made certain promises
to these people last year and we have to come with a solution,
I think.
Mayor Ferre: The chair is ready to accept a motion.
Mr. Plummer: I am not making a motion because I readily
admitted to you before sir that I did not go into this study
in great depth. Mr. Kaplan, before you scream 'No' I would
like you to consider this,sir. 1 would like to be afforded
the opportunity of sitting down and studying this report in
depth which I admit to you sir I have not done.
Mayor Ferre: You only got that one yesterday?
Mr. Plummer: We got it before that. I got it Friday.
Mr. Kaplan: Did Mr. Reese mail it to you?
Mr. Plummer: Yes, sir.
Mr. Kaplan: He had it May 23rd.
Mr. Reese: Mr. Kaplan, am I on trial here? for your benefit?
Mr, Kaplan: You are making statements like a witness, you
ought to be ,---
Mr. Reese: I am making statements like a witness ,----
Mr. Kaplan: ---you say the City can't afford it, --
Mr. Reese: I don't know what you are making statements like.
Mayor Ferre: Wait a moment Mr. Reese, --go ahead, go ahead
Mr. Reese,
Mr. Plummer: I was talking,
Mayor Ferre: I recognize you, -----
Mr. Plummer: ---is there any harm, sir, of afford the members
of this Commission the opportunity during our vacation time which
if in fact we agree with the arbitration, we can make it retro-
active back to the 26th of July, but giving this Commission the
opportunity to sit down and study this report and try to realize
all of the ramifications. I realize you don't like delays, and
neither do I, sir, but I remember sitting here making certain
statements a year ago, and I am willing to live up to those
statements if it is any way humanly possible, but I am saying
that I feel that all the members of this Commission should have
the opportunity to sit down and digest this report in depth.
There is nothing to preclude that if we agree with the arbitration
we can't make it retroactive back to the 26th. I am saying to you
sir in so many words, can't we defer this until the 13th of September?
Mayor Ferre: You can do anything you want. You're the Commissioner.
7/26/73
126
Mr. Plummer: I understand that Mr. Mayor but as you
and Father Gibson has always said, let's try to get the best
of two worlds. Now, you want to digest that for a half a second, --
Mayor Ferre: No, that was your confusing me with Steve Clark.
Mr. Plummer: No, Steve Clark says everybody wants to go to
Heaven but nobody wants to die.
Mayor Ferre: That's right, that's a good one too.
Mr. Reboso: If you offer a motion I second it.
Mr. Plummer; I would like to hear his response.
Mr. Kaplan: What am I going to say Mr. Mayor?
Mayor Ferre: Let me tell you something,
(inaudible)
Mr. Kaplan: Well, I don't hear from you Canon,if you
know how I feel you know I am absolutely incensed. My client
which doesn't have a heck of a lot money, spent a lot of
money on this arbitration, and the City spent a lot of money.
Rev. Gibson: Joe, you know what I've discovered, you
may have spent, and spent and spent, --you'd better listen to
J.L. I am just saying out of good P.R. and understanding
for all of us, why don't you listen to him? You know I know, ---
Joe, listen to him.
Mr. Kaplan; Obviously I have no power to say anything
hoping to convince the City of the good faith of the Union.
The continuous good faith of the Union, the additional good
faith of the Union, maybe this time we will get a contract
effective back to July 26. We have been waiting since October
of last year, ---you think you could do one thing for us, could
you specify on the calendar, and hour or specific time, --
Mayor Ferre: We can't do that, but we can specify the day,
and I'll specify the morning so that you don't get us the
way we are now.
Mr. Kaplan: Could we have some gentlemen and ladies agreement
that, I could, because I'm long-winded, to give me an hour so
I can explain my position, --
Mayor Ferre: Okay, in the morning, you can't use the
word lady anymore.
Mr. Kaplan: How about an earlier date then, --
Rev. Gibson: No, no, you'd better take the 13th
Mr. Kaplan: No, 1 meant an earlier date, ---
Mayor Ferre: No, we won't be back,
Mr. Kaplan: May I ask you to do one more thing, can I have
some interim financial data which Mr. Reese has studied to show
the City can't afford it? Can get it, because we've got an economist
on our payroll.We would like to study it.
Mr. Reese: All the records that I worked from, all financial
information, is public information.
127
7/26/23
Mr. Kaplan: I would like to work from the same records
you worked from. Can I get copies of the records.
Mr. Reese: We don't have double books. You can work from
the same information as I worked from.
Mr. Kaplan: I'd like to know what records he worked from.
Mayor Ferre: Let's not get into an argument as to what
Mr. Reese works from. Mr. Reese says the books of the City
of Miami. are open to the citizens, anytime you want to come
and see' them you are welcome, is that right Mr. Reese?
Mr. Reese: Positively.
Mayor Ferre: We have a motion on the floor,made by who?
Rev. Gibson: I'll make the motion, that the item be
deferred until September 13th, and that morning ----
Mr. Kaplan: With an understanding that in the event
this contract is acceptable after reading it, that this can
be retroactive to today.
Mayor Ferre: There is a motion, and a second, is there
further discussion on this item?
Thereupon the following resolution was introduced by
Rev. Gibson who moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO.73-624
A RESOLUTION ACKNOWLEDGING RECEIPT OF A
REPORT ENTITLED ADVISORY ARBITRATION AWARD
OF AMERICAN FEDERATION OF STATE COUNTY AND
MUNICIPAL EMPLOYEES, LOCAL 654, AND THE CITY
OF MIAMI, AND DEFERRING ANY CONSIDERATION OF
ITS RECOMMENDATIONS TO SEPTEMBER 13, 1973, WITH
THE UNDERSTANDING THAT IF THE COMMISSION DECIDES
TO ACCEPT THE RECOMMENDATIONS ON SEPTEMBER 13,
1973, IMPLEMENTATION OF SAID RECOMMENDATION WOULD
BE RETROACTIVE TO JULY 26, 1973.
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here and on
file in the City Clerk's office.)
Upon being seconded Mr. Reboso, the resolution was passed
and adopted by the following vote - AYES: Messrs. Plummer,
Reboso, Mrs.Gordon, Reverend Gibson and Mayor Ferre. Noes;None.
Mr. Plummer: And I would like to ask of the adminstration
that they furnish to us in writing their position and their
position as relates to finances for our consideration together
with an in-depth study of the report.
Mayor Ferre: I think that is a valid statement Mr Reese.
Rev. Gibson: Make the same record available to the Counsel
for their, ---
Mayor Ferre: All right, thank you very much for your patience
and we will see you September 13.
Rev. Gibson: Thank you for your understanding.
128
7/26/73
•
69, PETITION FROM CITY EMPLOYEES REGARDING RECREATION DEPARTMENT
Mr. Joseph Kaplan: I understand that all of you people have been
furnished with a petition from your City of Miami employees regarding
the Recreation Department.
Rev. Gibson: Don't lets take that up Joe, we -
Mayor Ferre: I haven't received such a petition, have you?
Mr. Plummer: Neither have I.
Mr. Kaplan: Okay.
Mayor Ferre: I have not received any written petition from the
employees of the Recreation Department.
Mr. Plummer: Wait a minute, seems like I saw something on my desk.
Remind me of what it said and I will tell you whether or not I got it.
Mayor Ferre: Who was the letter addressed to?
Mr. Kaplan: The City of Miami Commission.
Mrs. Gordon: I recall.
Mayor Ferrc": The City of Miami Commission. Have you got a copy of it`
Mr. Kaplan: I have the original.
Mayor Ferre: Let me see it.
Mrs. Gordon: We can take that up at the same time on the 13th.
Mr. Kaplan: Yes except the examination is scheduled for August.
Mr. Mill: These were those positions that Yarger allocated for the
position of Recreation Leader III.
Mayor Ferre: This was passed on to you Mr. Reese. I think I remember
this now.
Mrs. Gordon: May I speak to it Mr. Mayor?
Mr. Reese: I don't think it was a petition that was passed on to me.
I think it was a previous memorandum.
I think that the representative of the Civil Service Commission has been
sitting down with these people trying to reconcile that.
Mrs. Gordon: As I understand it, its a ridiculous situation.
The Yarger Report recommended a certain classification for certain groups
of recreational employees and they were placed in that position.
Some time subsequent to that, they were demoted or they were also told
in order to be eligible for the classification that they were placed in
by the Yarger Report, they would have to take an examination.
It seems to me that might be an unfair requirement for persons having
served in a position for a number of years and having qualified by
virtue of experience for the position and having been recognized as
being qualified for that position in the Yarger Report to now say to
them, you must take a written examination.
It seems to me to be an unfair request and this is the point, as I
understand it. Am I correct?
Mr. Kaplan: Yes Mrs. Gordon, exactly
I Jmight point out that the Commission adopted in principle, the
Yarger report and now somebody is trying to change the Yarger Report.
Mr. Reese: The City Commission adopted the Yarger Report and any
changes that were made or any modifications whatsoever pertaining to
classification was turned over to the Civil Service Board where it's
properly and according to the Charter and the Ordinances of the City
of Miami, they are to recon cile these. That is why I turned this
request over to the Civil Service Board to sit down with these people
and endeavor to work it out because they are the ones-
129 JUL 26197
• •
Mrs. Gordon: Now Mr. Reese -
Mr. Reese: Now, may I finish please?
Mayor Ferre: Mr. Reese is recognized. I haven't recognized anybody else.
I'm going to rule anybody out of order who speaks out.
Mr. Reese: I don't know of anybody else in this City who has got the
authority to reconcile this differential because the City Commission
I know doesn't have the authority and the Administration doesn't have
the authority. It is solely with the Civil Service Board.
Mr. Kaplan: Mr. Mayor, what happened was after we presented it to the
City Commission with an attempt to get the administration to keep
the principle of adopting the Yarger Report, we went to the Civil Service
Commission, had 2 meetings with them and deadlocked. They refused to
accept the justice of our cause as expressed by Mrs. Gordon.
We are now before you to ask you to reconsider the action of the Civil
Service Commission as a matter of view. We have no other place to go
except to a Court.
The examination is being scheduled for the first week of August.
Mr. Plummer: Mr. Kaplan. If I am not mistaken, unless the Civil Service
Board proposes a rule change to us, no one can appeal a Civil Service
Board decision to this Commission. I could be wrong.
I think that the only avenue or vehicle of appealing Civil Service decisions
are through the Courts. Now that's in the Charter. Mr. Lloyd, am I
right or wrong?
Mr. Paulk, you answer it. You heard my question Sir. Am I right or wrong?
Mr.Robert Paulk: Yes Mr. Plummer, you are absolutely correct insofar
as the classification is concerned.
Mr. Plummer: Mr. Kaplan, 1 don't know how you can come before this
Commission Sir, and ask us to break a rule and that rule existing unless
I'm wrong is that an appeal can only be taken from Civil Service through
the Courts.
Mr. Kaplan: We are asking you to make sure that the actual adoption
of the Yarger study which you made in March is in fact implemented by
the Civil Service Board. They are changing the Yarger Report in the
way that Mrs. Gordon expressed it. The Yarger Report recommended the
advancement and reclassification of certain people. You adopted it.
Now the Civil Service Board in the only instance in the entire record
of the Yarger Report, in the Recreational Department do we find this
happening. They have required an examination to be set up to prove
that these people should hold the job they are getting as recommended
by the Yarger Study.
Mr. Plummer: Are you inferring Mr. Kaplan in any way that the action
of this Commission in reference to the Yarger Report adopted by this
Commission is not being implemented as we set forth by the Civil Service
Board?
Mr. Kaplan: I am saying just as clearly as I can that the Yarger Study
is being changed 100% by the Civil Service Board in regards to some
18 people who were recommended for reclassification.
Mayor Ferre: 1{e has been saying that for the last 15 minutes.
Mr. Plummer: Well Mr. Kaplan, Sir, if what you are saying is true, I
would suggest to my fellow Commissioners that you make specifics, that
you sit down and put them in writing where these 100% changes are
taking place and then we can act on that.
Mayor Ferre: You got that?
Mr. Kaplan: Yes Sir, except for one thing. The examination which they
are now requiring these people to take is scheduled for August 3rd.
Mrs. Gordon: That's the point J. L.
Mr. Plummer: There is nothing to preclude this Commission from throwing
that examination out.
130 JUL 261973
If they are not following the policy which we are to set, then they
aren't doing what they are supposed to do. That's very simple.
Now if Mr. Kaplan is wrong, then its a mute question but if in fact
he is right and they are not doing what we told them to do, then we
have got I think the prerogative to set the thing straight.
Mrs. Gordon: J. L., I recall when we accepted this report that we
did say, we are accepting it, and we did it in rather a hasty fashion
because there was a certain limitation of time involved with the
transferring of a department and we did not have an opportunity to
examine closely, each and every aspect of it or we may not have worked
so fast.
Mayor Ferre: I am going to rule Mrs. Gordon that in the next 5 minutes
we are going to get off this !iubject and get to something else so what
ever you are going to do, you have 5 minutes to do it in, otherwise I
am going to do it.
Mr. Paulk: Mr. Mayor, I wouldn't be doing the proper thing if I didn't
defend the action of the Civil Service Board because a large part of it
had to do with my action.
The Yarger Report was adopted by the Commission on March 8 in principle.
In principle, nothing has been changed insofar as the Yarger Report is
concerned. Many classifications were upgraded, some downgraded, salary
structure was adopted by this Commission and the salary structure has
been implemented by the City Manager under the implementation as set
forth under the City Manager.
Insofar as the classifications are concerned. Various people occupied
various classifications which some were changed.
In the Parks Department, there was a brand new classification at a
supervisory level that was established. There were approximately 40
some odd people in the next lower classification which could very well
been considered in some way by Yarger to compete or to be placed in
that position.
Now in the broad spectrum of implementing the classification plan
Yarger submitted, people qualified for a given classification depending
upon Civil Service Rules and Rule 8, Section 8, Subsection A, B, or C
which is applied to make that determination.
Anyone under Section "A" of that particular rule who has occupied that
particular position for 4 years is entitled to the position without
benefit of examination.
Under "B", if they have been there for 2 years, they are entitled to
qualify by taking a qualifying examination.
Under "C", if they haven't been there for 2 years, then the position is
to be filled from the register.
Now there are many different positions that were reallocated to a
different classification which have not been changed as yet because
the incumbent would he out of a job if we did.
There was an exception made with regard to the 18 Recreation Leader III
positions. Since we could not, in Civil Service Office reconcile the
reason why certain people of the 40 some odd people who occupy
Recreation Leader II positions or the old Recreation Supervisor or
Playground Supervisor position, what was the rationale insofar as
selecting these 18 as compared to 22 or 25 others?
We didn't know. We didn't know whether Yarger had interviewed each
one of them or all of them -
Mayor Ferre: I am going to have to interrupt you and you will have
to forgive me because this is getting to be a very technically
involved and complicated matter and Mrs Gordon, now I am going to
tell you what the chair is going to rule at this point.
I am going to ask that you submit a memorandum specifically stating
what cases of the 18 cases that you are talking about and I want you
to get a copy of it and I want you to respond to it.
Now I know Commissioner Plummer is going on vacation but with his
permission, if we need to call a special meeting for that specific
item in another week or two -
Mrs. Gordon: I'll be out of town Mr. Mayor.
130 A JUL 26197
i
Mayor Ferre: Are you going to be out of town?
Mrs. Gordon: Yes Sir, a couple weeks at least.
Mayor Ferre: When are you leaving?
Mrs. Gordon: Middle of August.
Mayor Ferre: Well -
Mrs. Gordon: May I make a recommendation? Why not just defer the
examination from being held in August until sometime later on until
this matter can be resolved?
Mayor Ferre: That's a good recommendation.
Mr. Paulk: It could be done, without a doubt.
Mayor Ferre: Would you do that? And then we will take this matter up
on September 13th along with the other one if you will defer the
examination until that time.
Mr. Paulk: Let me say, I would have to cancel it. Cancel the examination
and reschedule it. I don't think that's the proper thing to do however.
Mayor Ferre: Well the thing is if we are going to hear this thing,
I would have to hear you for another half hour and you know he will
talk another half hour and its already 6:20.
We have all these people waiting on a whole bunch of items.
I tell you right now, we are not going to be here tonite Mrs. Reese
until after 9 o'clock and your poor husband, this is his last day here
and we are putting him through the torture.
I think enough is enough so the chair rules that this item will be
heard on September 13th.
Mrs. Gordon: Do we need a motion to defer this examination? To make
if official.
Mayor Ferre: I don
t think so.
Mr. Paulk: Let me say this. I don't believe that the Commission can
direct that an examination be cancelled.
Mayor Ferre:
Mrs. Gordon:
Mayor Ferre:
No of course not.
No, we are asking you.
If you can fine, if you can't-
Mr.Paulk: At this point, I will convey to the Civil Service Board
who meets next Tuesday, the request of this Commission with regard
to this matter and if they agree that this examination be cancelled,
I will then cancel the examination.
Mr. Kaplan: On the other hand its within the power of the City
Commission to say that there were 18 people recommended by Yarger
for a promotion with a pay increase without an examination.
They are supposed to implement the wishes of the Commission.
Mayor Ferre: Well why don't you examine those 18 people and then
that point will be mute depending on what happens on September 13th?
Mr. Kaplan: I don't follow you sir.
Mayor Ferre: Well the controversy is to whether or not those people
are going to he examined or not.
Mr. Kaplan: Should take the exam or should get the promotion.
Mayor Ferre: The question is let them take the exam even though they
may not get the promotion depending on what the City decides on
September 13th.
131
JUL 26197
•
Mr. Kaplan: But its unfair to take a man who has got 18 tc, 25 years
experience to tell him he has got to take an examination when Yarger
said, you should get your promotion without an exam on the basis of
the fact you have been performing the work for those years.
Mr. Paulk: Yarger didn't say that Mr. Kaplan. Yarger made recomm-
endations for various classifications throughout the whole structure.
He didn't say who gets what.
Mr. Kaplan: He didn't? He didn't name 18 people Bob?
Mr. Paulk: He named 18 positions.
Mr. Kaplan: He named 18 people.
Mr. Faulk: We named those positions and how they were to get it.
It was done by the Board Mr. Kaplan.
Mr. Kaplan: In the event that my study which I will present to you
is a mis-statement of fact, then certainly Mr. Paulk can correct it
but I think what you are doing is, if the Civil Service Board conducts
this examination , they are in effect reversing Yarger. It's that
simple. Yarger didn't say to do that. The Civil Service Board with
Mr. Paulk's concurrence is now doing something Yarger didn't say to do.
Mr. Plummer: You can argue that on the 13th.
Mayor Ferre: Thank you very much.
70. PENSION NVI ESTNENT COMMITTEE'S RECOMMENDATION ON INVESTMEWT
ACTLVITIES
Mayor Ferre: For those of you that are here on the matter of the
in vestment committee, 1 would like to make a statement on that
because perhaps we might be able to cut through some of these things
very quickly.
First of all let me complement the Investment Committee and
Mr. Reese for an excellent and difficult job that they did with
exhaustive interviews with 51 firms that submitted proposals as money
managers and custodians of the funds of the Miami Retirement Systam
and Plan.
As all know, after these interviews, there were 11 firms or
semi-fi:ialists if you will who were invited back for a second inter-
view ar.d further questions -on their proposals.
Now the Committee has further refined this list and will today, submit
three firms to approve as money manager's of these funds. Now, I for
one, my fellow Commissioners cannot accept this approach. We are
talking abo,:t the management of tens of millions of dollars which
represent pensions for present and future city employees who have
served their City long and well. The responsibility for final selection
of the Manager's is finally up to this Commission.
I think that the only way that we can properly meet that
responsibility is by personally interviewing these firms and at a
special meeting in September.
By the firms, I mean, the 11 semi-finalists whi 41 of course
include the 3 recommended by the selection committee, It's too important
a judgment to make without personal interviews of this Commission.
Now I don't in any way mean to infer that these 3 recommended finalists
are wrong but I do mean to say that there is a selective process which
must be involved and the City Commission must he involved in it. Now
I recognize that 2 members of this Commission were appointed to serve
on that commission and be a part of it. I for one, will say that it
was impossible for me, for which I feel, I apologize that I was unable
to attend these meetings. These meetings lasted for days and days and
days.
132 JUL 261973
Now if this Committee had come to us and would have said, from the
11, we narrowed this down to 6 and then we would have had a choice
then I think my position would be somewhat different today but the
fact that we were recommended 3 without any choice then puts the
burden on this City Commission and since we have not been privvy
to this information since we have not heard the testimony, then I
think that it would be a bad way for this Commission to do and
therefore, Father Gibson, I turn over the gavel to you and I
move that the semi-finalist recommendation of the committee's report
be accepted and that the Corvnission invite back the 11 semi-finalists
for interviews at a special meeting to be set in September and further
in my motion would like to move that the actuarj.al consultants that
we have also come up with specific recommendations because at this
time, I have not heard or seen that the acturial consultants have
been
Mr. Reese: Mr. Mayor, I don't think you would want to make that
recommendation because the actuaries profesionally cannot make a
recommendation as to what money managers or what investors etc.
I
Mayor Ferre: All right Mr. Reese, let me remove my portion.
I remove that portion of the motion and leave it stand on the first
part. Go ahead.
Mr. Plummer: Mr. Mayor. I sat through some 30 hours of this.
I think that it should be furnished to you by the actuary, the
summaries and background of the 11 and I think that is very important.
Mayor Ferre: That is a separate matter though.
Mr. Plummer: No, it can be included in that.
Mayor Ferre: I wi.11 include it as far as them submitting information
to us but not a recommendation.
Mrs. Gordon: Mr. Mayor, may I please say something? Now
I think what we are doing and what has just been proposed is prepostrous.
I have heard Father Gibson say time and time again, that we select a
committee, we charge them with a responsibility and then we throw
their recommendations out the window and this is what you are saying.
T am not a member of the Investment Committee but I took my time to
go to the meetings so that I would be knowledgable today upon what
is being asked of me to vote and I feel that those members who were
on that committee and who did not attend, have done the committee and
the city, a gross injustice.
Mr. Plummer: Well Mrs. Gordon, let me say this. I wasn't going to
bring it up, if the Mayor's motion passed and I would have been
happy to second it because you did sit and I don't know if you sat
as long as I did or not -
Rev. Gibson: Just a moment. Wait a minute now. We have a motion by
the Mayor and we haven't given him an opportunity to get a second.
I think if we get a second, then we could discuss. Let's get it so
we could legally deal with it.
Mr. Plummer: Canon Gibson, I was going to second the motion but I
wanted to -
Rev. Gibson: Okay, all right then since you were going to second it.
Why not second it and then discuss it?
Mr. Plummer: You promise to recognize me and I will second it.
Rev. Gibson: You have it.
Mr. Plummer: On discussion. Mrs. Gordon, it's well and good for you
to say and me to say that we spent considerable time. I sat about
30 hours but what does bother me and I raised this question and I am
going to have to raise it to put it on the record.
One of the companies who had been excluded originally, when I found
out and was told, was one of the finest companies in the world.
133 JUL 2 6197
Mayor Ferre: No, I think the matter is very clear.
I would like to call the question.
Rev. Gibson: I want to turn the gavel over so I could make a comment.
Mayor Ferre: No, you can make the comment.
Rev. Gibson: Two things. Again I guess I am going to do this evening
like I did this morning. Some months ago, I had the privelege of being
in New York to attend a theological education board of the Episcopal
Church. Don't hold that against me. We were meeting in the pension
fund of our church building. It is common knowledge has the second
best and maybe for the sake of argument, the third best pension fund
in this country. I went to the President of the Pension Fund and I
said to Mr. Robinson, Mr. Robinson you are here in New York, you deal
with money. This is a pension fund. We are going to be dealing with
75 million dollars in a very short while. Since you are an impartial
person, I would like for you to answer a couple of questions for me.
Mr. Robinson said this and I now want to share it with you. •
He said, Father Gibson, if I were going to let that money out,
I would divide it up so that I could have a comparison. But, I would
also ask, how long have those managers been where he is, doing what he
is doing. He said, let me tell you a great danger about that.
Here is what the President of a Pension Fund whose experience came out
of one outfit into ours and did a magnificent job for us in the
Episcopal Church, listen to this:
He said, a man can well hold that office for 2 years or maybe 3 years
and develop one fantastic record and because he has his eyes on
another position, build his record and then leave and then the whole
bottom drops out. He said that. That caused me to sit up and take
note. I am speaking in a very awkward position because my wife is on
the Pension Board and she was on there before I came on the Commission.
This is part of her doings but my wife and I don't vote the same way
nor do we think the same way because I am Theodore and she is Thelma
and the second thing is. Rose, I agree with you that I believe if you
have citizens committees, you ought to use them.
Mr. Mayor, I am not always in agreement with your philosophy and Rose
I am not always opposed to you and I love those people who worked hard
and to bring this decision back but you know what, something
was said here earlier at some meeting or two ago.
I am not going to delegate nor relegate my responsibility to a
committee. Let me put that in context.
When we were talking about the zoning matter. Things you say to me,
I remember so well. When we were talking about the zoning matter, we
said, that the Commission must always retain their authority to make
a choice and all 1 am saying is, if Mr. Ferre, as much as I don't
want to agree with Mr. Ferre, this much is true. The committee has
now chosen. If the committee had given us 2 and said pick 1, we would
have been making the choice. Now Rose that's a little different concept
and according to the law, the law says, we have the authority and we
should never give it over to anybody to make or exercise that authority
for us. I would feel more comfortable if I were looking at 6 names
or 8 names or in the Mayor's case, 11 names and I would keep ever-
lastingly before me, these 4 names I see recommended here.
They would have the preponderance of evidence in my hook and I would
consider them far more thoroughly than I would the others but at this
point you say to me, now literally they are saying and I know they
don't mean it, these are the 4 names, take it or leave it.
They didn't really mean it in that sense but they didn't give me but
4 names. In other words they gave me Equity Money Manager, Fixed
Money Manager, Custodian. You have told me who the 4 people ought to be.
That way, you have chosen them for me and as much as I love citizen
participation, Rose, its a little different.
I want them to recommend and offer their input and all of that but
I find it a little difficult.
Mayor Ferre: Call the question.
134
I fought very hard before this Commission that no one be excluded and
they finally, I am not saying my persuasion did it, but all companies
were heard because of I think, my argument.
Now unfortunately one of the meetings that I could not attend, this
company made their presentation.
But then, after their presentation, and selection which I was unable
to attend at the narrowing down, I pick up the Miami Daily News on
the 24th day of July where T. Rowe Price Fund declines.
This is one of the companies chosen by the committee and I will tell
you Mrs. Gordon as I will tell my fellow Commissioners.
When an assinine statement is made by a representative of that company
to wit: Making excuses why their fund dropped 20.6% in the first 6
months of this year and his statement was: I'll sing you a song:
"What can I say after I say I'm sorry"?
Now Mrs. Gordon, I tell you before I can sit here and vote in good
conscience on such a company, who I feel responsible is here because
of what I did, I want to hear their presentation and I want to ask
them questions. Now that's my point and that is reason I second the
motion.
Mrs. Gordon: Mr. Plummer, I want to tell you something.
Mayor Ferre: Would the chair recognize me after Mrs. Gordon?
Rev. Gibson: All right, Mrs. Gordon, then -
Mrs. Gordon: I would like you to know and Mr. Reese can verify this
.that a report that I found in a magazine called Forbes magazine was
furnished to Mr. Reese and he furnished copies to all of the members
of the Investment Committee so that they may be knowledgable and they
were knowledgable and I am certain that in their deliberations, they
weighed all of the facts. I will again tell you, I offered no opinion
and offered no part of the decision making process because I was not a
member of the committee but the committee I listened to their delib-
erations and their analysis and they chose to make the selection
and I recall they didn't make it their first selection but they did
make it and they based it upon what I thought was a reasonable approach.
Now, I challenge you again, because you were a member of the committee
and you did not attend and Mr. Ferre, I don't know how many me,:-,:ings
you attended, I didn't see you at any. Maybe you weren't at any.
I don't know.
Mayor Ferre: I stated that for the record previously.
Mr. Gordon: Okay, but I think again and I say again that what you are
doing is a grossly unfair thing to the committee and to the people,
the 51 groups of people that flew here from all over the country and
I think that you are doing an injustice to the citizens. The whole
thing is really appalling as far as I can see.
Mayor Ferre: Now you may be appalled Mrs. Gordon but I will not vote
on a matter that takes, that will take into account as I recall
75 million dollars in which we have a responsibility on, without
having a full and open discussion in this Commission and I do not
think at this point, you may be fully informed and I apologize
because I admit that I am not. I am not going to vote on this matter
until we have a full exposure and I am not opening this thing up to
everyone. I am doing it strictly as the committee narrowed it to
11 finalists, but I want to hear them. Iwant to hear them here
before I make a decision. I am not saying I am not going to go with
T. Rowe Price or Montag $ caldwell or Bankers Trust. I am saying
that I want to hear them and the other people that were semi-finalists
and that's all I am saying.
Mrs. Gordon: I am not saying that you shouldn't hear them but the
tapes are there and the complete presentations have been recorded
and rather than the approach you are taking now, I think you might
want to hear all of the presentations that were put on the tape.
135 JUL 261973
The following resolution was introduced by Mayor Ferre who
moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 73-625
A RESOLUTION PROVIDING FOR A SPECIAL MEETING OF
THE CITY COMMISSION TO BE HELD ON SEPTEMBER 11,
1973 FOR THE PURPOSE OF CONSIDERING THE QUALIF-
ICATIONSOF THE 11 FIRMS SELECTED BY THE CITY OF
MIAMI INVESTMENT COMMITTEE TO ACT AS MONEY MAN-
AGERS AND CUSTODIAN OF FUNDS FOR THE CITY OF
MIAMI RETIREMENT SYSTEM AND PLAN AND ACKNOWLEDGING
RECEIPT OF THE INVESTMENT COMMITTEE REPORT ON THIS
MATTER DATED JULY 20, 1973
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here and on file
in the City Clerks Office)
Upon being seconded by Mr. Plummer, the resolution was passed
and adopted by the following vote - AYES: Messrs. Plummer, Reboso,
Reverend Gibson and Mayor Ferre. NOES: Mrs. Gordon
Mayor Ferre: Now just for the record, I want to read who the people
are:
BANKERS TRUST
MONTAG & CALDWELL
BOSTON COMPANY OF THE SOUTHEAST
LOOMIS SAYLES AND COMPANY INC.
T. ROWE PRICE & ASSOCIATES
SUPERVISED INVESTORS SERVICES
THORNDIKE, DORAN, PAINE & LEWIS INC.
TRAVELERS INSURANCE COMPANY
JOHN HANCOCK INSURANCE
FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF MIAMI
CITY NATIONAL BANK OF MIAMI
Mr. Plummer: Mr. Mayor, I would also like that this article which
I will give to the Clerk be given and mailed to T. Rowe Price because
the first question I am going to ask is that they justify this article.
Now they might already have but I haven't seen the answer.
Mrs. Gordon: Mr. Plummer, they justified or tried in the Forbes article.
Mr. Plummer: It might be -the same. I will for the record recognize
Mrs. Gordon--
Mrs.Gordon: It was brought to the table. It was not something hidden
from sight. They were thoroughly questioned about it.
Am I right? There are some people here who were at the meeting and do
understand the situation.
Unidentified Man: I wonder If I could be recognized by the Mayor?
Mayor Ferre: I will recognize you very briefly Sir, I assume that
you represent T. Rowe Price.
Unidentified Man: Yes Sir, I do.
Mayor Ferre: I will recognize you briefly because now this matter
has been settled and we will be hearing you in September.
136 JUL 261973
•
Unidentified Man: Thank you, our firm will be very pleased to be a
member of the group coming down to make presentation at that point
in time. Because of the specific reference to our firm here today,
I thought it might be appropriate to spend a few moments of time in
trying to right what I believe is -
Mayor Ferre: Your name for the record.
Mr. Dunn: My name is Richard Dunn and I was a member of the investment
team that came down to make a presentation a week and a half ago.
I would like to have a copy of that article or the article itself to
take back with me. I believe that the statement contained in the
article has been mis-quoted by the paper. If the paper references the
individual who has made this statement, we will ascertain whether the
statement has been made.
Mr. Plummer: Save an 8i stamp. Mr. Clerk, give it to him.
Mr. Southern: I am having a copy made right now.
Mr. Dunn: I don't intend to make a presentation to you today but
Mr. Plummer, I would like to leave 2 documents with you that I just
happen to have with me here today.
The statement in the article referred to our Growth Stock Fund.
Mr. Plummer: Sir, I would prefer you to discuss this, all things
being fair to everyone. If you have something that you want to mail
to each Commissioner, then do so Sir, but I think all people should
be treated equal and you will be notified when the hearings will be Sir.
Mayor Ferre: Mr. Reese, would you set a date?
Mr. Reese: You have already set the 13th.
Mayor Ferre: No no, there is no way we can do this on the 13th.
Mr. Plummer:
Mayor Ferre: Not 11 hours, but it will be S or 6 hours.
Mr. Southern: Mr. Mayor. A point of clarification on that last motion
where you said that the recommendation of the committee's report be
accepted. I don't know whether you actually intended to accept their
recommendations.
You are talking about 11 hours Mr. Mayor.
Mayor Ferre: No, the 11 finalists which I read into the record.
Rev. Gibson: Acceptance is not the same as adoption. If they were
adopted, that means final but if its accepted, we just simply -
better use another word Mr. Mayor, that we received the report.
Mayor Ferre: Right, Okay.
Mr. Plummer: Mr. Mayor -
Mr. Reese: Also I would like to say, the report needs to be clarified
in the set of minutes of the last meeting needs to be supplied with
this report so I would ask the Commission to consider accepting a report
with a copy of the minutes attached to it and the Resolution No. 134
be corrected. Because it isn't exact.
NOTE: (The preceding comment referred to the minutes of the Retirement
System E Board)
Mr. Plummer: Mr. Mayor, because I am informed that there are a great
number of people here are interested in this thing, is it possible
Mr. Reese that we can set a date?
Mr. Reese: I would like to suggest September llth which would make it
convenient for the people out of town to come and set that date for a
meeting. It's a Tuesday.
Mr. Plummer: Does anyone have any objection?
137 JUL 2 61973
•
Mr. Plummer: Even though I admit to you, I was not present for
T. Rowe Price's presentation, their presentation alone Sir, was 11
hours.
Mr. Reese: They asked for 11 hour but they were shortened up considerably.
Mrs. Gordon: J. L. didn't you attend any of that last group that
came in?
Mr. Plummer:
Mrs. Gordon:
Mayor Ferre:
not -
Mr. Plummer:
that I think
I couldn't.
None?
Wait a minute now, we aren't going to get into whether or
Mr. Mayor, the only thing I am cautioning you Sir, is
you are talking about an 11 hour day.
Mayor Ferre: I understand. We will have to take up whatever time
it is on the llth.
The date is then September llth unless we hear otherwise.
Rev. Gibson: I have to be in Chicago the next day so I don't want
you to keep me here.
NN
Ilk
71, BOOZ-ALLEN & HAMILTON - INTERIM PRESENTATION ON MANAGEMENT STUDY
Mayor Ferre: Now we are going to take up the Booz-Allen
Hamilton interim presentation which is a 3:00 o'clock item
at 7:00 o'clock and then we will take up item #14 and then
we will take on that, so the Chair recognizes
members o2 Booz-Allen & Hamilton and 1 know that this is
going to go into final report about how lour the meetings
take etc., etc., etc..,
Mr..Stewart Matland: My name is Stewart Matland and I
am the officer within Booz-Allen & Hamilton who is responsible
for the work we are conducting for the City of Miami.
Our purpose in meeting with you today, or tonight is to
tell you something about what we have been doing to outline
for you our preliminary conclusion, to tell you where we
will be going, answer any questions you may have about what
we have been doing. But I want to emphasize that this is a
very preliminary stage of our work and we have as yet just
gotten into our data analysis.
By way of background, you might think the City of Miami
exists to provide services which efficiently and effectively
meet the needs of residents, private enterprise and visitors.
how to improve the management and delivery of Cie:,(
t7 C I -a: undertaken a three year federally assisted program
consentrating on management organization structure, human
resource management and management reporting and information
systems.
The management improvement program has two broad coals --
the development of a dynamic top management organization,
that can determine and respond to changing community needs
and address them efficiently and effectively, those words
tend to be over -used, but they are real. And secondly the
development of a modern human resource management system
that the City's ability to attract to de:•-.1tp
to service and retain the people most appropriate to delivering
community services, because it is pretty obvious, you don't
have the right people in City jobs at all levels, you are not
going to get much out of your City government. Now, Booz-Allen
was brought in to assist the City in completing this manage-
ment improvement program, and our specific tasks are to develop
recommendations for improving the department level City govern-
ment organization structure. to development recommendations for
improvements in City government -wide human resources management
at all levels --to design an action plan for implementing recom-
mended improvements, in the organization structure and in the
human resources management area, and to assist the City in im-
plementing that plan to make the whole thing worthwhile. A task
of improving the City government organization structure of re-
structuring it, will provide a context for improvements in
human resource management policies and procedures, and that's
an essential task if we are going to make better the services
provided by the City to its constituency and to its employees.
At this point, we haven't gotten into the human resources manag,
ment area in any kind of detail, but we can give you an over -view
of the results of the management organizations study including
the description of a current City management organization structure
that is those departments that report directly to the City Manager,
a summary of the areas which opportunities exists for improvement
in the City organization structure and our recommendation for
short term and long range restructuring the organization to
make these improvements.
First thing we've got to do is look at where you are now
.and how you got there. I would like to introduce Eric Hansen
who is our project manager and Fredrica Wall who is one of the
139
7/26/73
• •
analyst on the team of nine people we have had in Miami
over the last two months. The Miami city organization structure
has over the last ten years been responding to changing community
and city department service requirment, and showing that we have
a need for improvement as well. We have to learn how to make our
graphics a little bit better. We lost some of the edges there.
The current organization structure reflects significant changes
in service requirements over the past 10 years. Obviously one
major change has been in the elimination of certain municipal
activities through regionalization. But another change has
taken place if you look back over the last 10 or 15 years, is
the breaking out of activities from large departments and
making them into departments themselves in order to focus
attention on specific service problems. And this is a pattern
that has evolved and has been quite successful in dealing
with specific problem areas. Now, as you look at this, it
is important to remember that it is nothing but boxes, and
boxes without people aren't going to get anything done. The
importance of effective management development and utilization
of City employee manpower is emphasized by the fact as Mr.
Plummer pointed out in another context earlier that 80 to 90
percent of most department budgets are allocated to salary
and wage expenditures in the City, so how you use your people
is key to what is going to come out as a result of your tax
money. Now. in our management analysis the first part of our
work, the most important focus has been as it is in any manage-
ment analysis on the services delivered by the municipality,
we take a look at it and say how should it be better, because
we say, what do you want it to do, and we feel that any changes
in the organization structure that we recommend, should generate
opportunity to improve the effectiveness and the efficiency of
that special mix, €hat particular mix of municipal services that
the City has to deliver. If you look at all of those boxes
you will find that in general they break down into faux major
areas. These are services that you provide in the area of
community improvement and recreation to both people and property,
police services, fire prevention and abatement services andthen
everything else really exists to provide administrative support
to city departmental operations. And in looking at these operations
we feel that significant opportunities exists for improving the
responsivness of city services . By way of background, our
analysis of the city organization structure, reflects interviews
we conducted over the last two months, with a broad range of
elected and appointed city officials, city employees at all
levels, and employee and community leaders. They include for
example, the Mayor, most members of the City Commission,
the City Manager and members of his staff, and top and middle
managers in every City department. In addition, we did the obvious
things like examining the City Charter andCode and we bring to it
our own background, in working with the organization' problems of
similar size cities that have undergone recent organizational
modifications. As a result of this, opportunities for improvement,
these are only opportunities, you've got to act to make them real,
were identified and an approach was developed for implementing
them.
Now, these in to two areas, you have opportunities
to up- grade the quality of community services, as well as to
up -grade internal operations. And we feel you can begin to get
at this by re -structuring the City departments, departmental
level organization, but to meet what objective, ---and in talking
to the Commissioner, and talking to the employees themselves,
try to get some fee]what the citizens want, we say the objectives
that should be met by re -structuring this department level
organization, can be summarized in five general points. First
of all, anything that is done should strengthen the Commission-
7/26/73
140
Manager form of goverment. Secondly, it should improve and
strengthen top management control of departmental operation.
You've got to have control over the thing, or it will run
away from you. Modernize and streamline administrative support
and services to operational departments and to the Commission.
Strengthen the service delivery and coordination capabilities
in current city operation. People seem to be pretty happy
with current services they are getting, and improved services
to city employees and strengthen prcgrams for employee develop
ment. You've got to provide the right work environment for
your employees, or they are not going to want to work for you,
and the best people are going to work where they are best
treated.
Now,
breed of
answers,
have all
in approaching organization work, it's a strange
cat, as far as consulting goes. There are no right
and the organization structure itself, I'm sure we
lived long enough through organizational changes
to find out never produces any improvement by itself. The
structure is simply a framework, --it is a tool that enables
people to improve the management.and delivery of municipal
services. You've got to remember, there's no one best approach
to reorganization, no magic answer. If I could find it we
could make a fortune. We could do better than your investment
managers, ---the same time the structure and approach to the
City of Miami can't be listed from a text book, you can't
borrow it from a neighboring community, because you are not
that community, and you can't in isolation
without considering unique, community environmental factors
in which the organization has to function. Of some of the
major community environmental factors influencing the proposed
management organization, and through the fact you have to
recognize your City Manager, he recently announced his resig-
nation, and other top management personnel will retire over the
next few years, and this is going.to create a
the replacement of their management skill. You have a need
to develop a team -management approach to administrate the
problems and to solve them, and you have a community that
is changing. You have a need to respond to new and emerging
service requirements and to changing management responsthilities.
And I could go on, but the interest of brevity won't. If you
are interested, we can come back to any point. But if you will
see, we feel one of the things that ran through every conver-
sation we had, was the desire on the part of the Mia:ni City
government to maintain and improve its leadershi}: Position
with respect to the delivery of the current local government
services to the community it directly services. And I gather
this came out this morning in your disc>>grons of recreation
and parks, and what you are ari;iy to do with it. You are a
different community, c:11ci that difference has to be recognized.
And the City government has to be strong enough, effective
enough as a management entity to effectively represent the
interest of the citizens of the City of Miami, to Metropolitan
Dade County. So if you see the proposed management organization
plan we have come up with is designed specifically to respond
to both the special environmental factors, and the objectors.
Mayor Ferre: Is that part of a written report that we have?
Mr. Matland: No, it is not part of a written report.Now,
organization development has got to be approached on a gradual
basis, because you can't shake the tree too hard. Everything
will fall down, the ripe and the unripe. We recommend that you
approach your organization planning in a three -stage process.
7/26/73
141
• •
The first stage, which is shown here, is the grouping
of city departments into service divisions and functional
units, while current departments remain intact. If you
look at it, it's shown up there, and I'il take you through
chart step by step.
The second stage, the service units, will become new
departments while the current sub -units of the department
that you have now, the departmental divisions and sections
remain intact, and the third stage, new departments reorganize
internally creating new sections and program areas, as appro-
priate to meet their service roles and the management styles
of their people.
Now, the approach we propose, is based on reorganizing
from the top down to provide term benefits now,
from increased management control and capabilities without
wholesale disruption of operation and the immediate re- •
organization of line service level personnel, because that
just doesn't work. Our experience tells us it doesn't work,
you get chaos. You've got tc work it from the top down
and let it trickle through the organization, and you have
to do it over a period of two or three years. And there is
no difference between a corporate organization and a city
organization, where people change slowly.
Mayor Ferre: ( inaudible question)
Mr. Matland: I'm sorry, the major changes. created for
office of the City Manager, comprised of the city's top
level <:dministrators, up -grade the city's central policy --
making and operations control capabilities, establish
units of inter -related service functions, to clarify
management responsibilities in reporting channels, to
reduce response time for delivering services and provide
opportunities for improved operations planning and evaluation,
to centralize and expand employee recruitment service and
development activities, to get zit that people area, to get
the best people in and do the best things with them, and to
shorten the reporting lines to the office of the City Manager
by reducing this very difficult and broad span of control
that the City managers have to deal with. You do that by
delegating to deputy City managers, and we recommend that
you create four of them, two of them essentially being the
same as the chiefs of Police and Fire at this point, and
two new ones to consolidate like services in major grouts
and to create a function of community relation within the
office of the City Manager to provide information and assistance
to the citizenry as well as monitor and respond to the changing
service needs of the community, and what we have done here overall
is to combine operating functions, common to more than, one depart-
ment, to reduce duplicate and redundant manpower expenditures.
This should take place, we would recommend to you over the
next year. The stages that flow from this, stages two and three
which relates to what happens within the departments themselves
would be determined under this plan by the office of the City
Manager in combination with the top manager at the functional
service unit level. The guys who are running it have to decide
how they want to organize. This depends on what they are comfort-
able with, and nobody can really pre -judge it for them very
effectively. The third stage is when the sub -units of the
existing department are put together and changed around, it
has to reflect the changing service requirements that may
exist two or three years from now, and should not' be locked
7/26/73
142
in or dictated at this point. The initial staffing implications
of this first stage we recommended are minimal. They involve
the addition of positions to this newly created office of
the City Manager, these positions may be filled however
from within the existing organization, if appropriate
candidates are available, and their positions may be left
un-filled and if possible wiped out through consolidation
in subsequent stages. It shouldn't cost you a lot more
money to do this, any more money at all. The net of it 13
with this kind of organization structure, we feel that you'd
have a greater opportunity to improve communications within
the city and between the city and community, to provide
services in a better way to the people you are trying to
reach, plus the commission, as well as the employees as
well as the residents and visitors who are vital part of
the City, and we think it provides you with a framework
for cost avoidance as this organization structure &?velops.
This is where we are at this point in our examination.
The next step we go into is a detail look at the human
resources management area, and that will be a couple a
months from now.
Mayor Ferre: Thank you very much, and I want to say
for the record that I did have a very plesant, 15 minute
conversation which lasted. close to an hour with these
gentlemen, and I was very impressed by their thoughts,
their presentation, their approach, and I think we are
going to get our money's worth, and I think, ---the thing
that concerns me is that I hope we will have an opportunity
to discuss this are eventually get into an implementing
stage because these reports are beautiful but they don't
mean anything unless you do something about them. So
my thanks to you.
Mr. Matland: With deference to Canon Gibson, Amen.
Mayor Ferre: Thank you very much.
143
7/26/73
4110
72, VARIANCE - N. 22 ,5' OF LOT 6, BLOCK 3. CQPPINGER'S TROPICAL GARDENS
Mr. Rose: I am Michael I. Rose, attorney for the applicant.
Mr. Plummer: Mr. Mayor, may I ask at this time Mr. Acton, on Item 14
your recommendation was deferral. Is it still that at this time Sir
or have you made a recommendation? -
Mr. Acton: I did personally inspect this property and it was my opinion
that the property would be much too narrow to place a building on which
would be in conformance with the conditions that exist in the neighborhood.
The lot is extremely narrow and the applicant was asking for a variance
that would amount to 1' from the property line that adjoins the express-
way.
Mr. Plummer: So your recommendation then is denial?
Mr. Acton: Yes.
Mr. Rose: I represent Angel Miranda. My address is 1933 S. W. 27th
Avenue, Miami, Florida.
For the sake of brevity what we would like to do is extend the
building another 4' instead of the present width that it is now.
It's difficult to see on the map in front of us. I have an architects
rendering that indicates where the building would be placed and it would
be approximately 6' away from the fence line from the E-W expressway.
The ordinance calls for a 5' setback and we are asking that it be
varied to allow only a 1' setback in order that the building could
be constructed wider than presently under the ordinance now.
It's difficult to see there because of the fact that the area just
indicates the lot but I have a rendering here which I am going to show
to you which will enable you to see exactly what I am talking about
very specifically.
Mr. Plummer: Is this a new structure or an addition to a structure?
Mr. Rose: a new structure.
Mr. Plummer: Non -existing, not attached to any other structure
presently existing.
Mr. Simpson, I read here that this lot is 221' wide. Now what are the
setbacks on each side?
Mr. Simpson: 5' is required.
Mr. Plummer: So we are now talking about a 121' structure. The building
itself cannot exceed 12=' without a variance.
Mr. Rose: That's correct.
Mr. Plummer: How long is this structure?
Mr. Rose: The building is 311'.
Mr. Plummer: Does that comply with the minimum square footage?
Mr. Simpson: Yes, this is a 2-story structure.
Mr. Plummer: I don't care. We are talking about a sliver 121'.
My bedroom is wider than that,
Mr. Rose: This is why we are asking for the 4 additional feet. because
that would give you 161' wide -
Mr. Plummer: Sir, the person you represent. Are they building this
for their own use or for speculation?
Mr. Rose: No Sir, for their own use.
144
JUL 261973
Mr. Plummer: And they are ready to accept the fact that they are
going to move into a building, even granting the variance of 16' wide?
Mr. Rose: 1611' wide and 3111' long, 2-stories.
Mr. Plummer: Its a building not big enough to change your mind in.
Mr. Rose: Let me show you what I am talking about.
Mr. Plummer: Mr. Lloyd, We have been confronted with this situation
quite a few times where an expressway has gone in. Now legally this
man can't build on that piece of property without some kind of variance.
Now, was this taken into consideration at the time that this property
was acquired by the expressway people?
Mr. Lloyd: Yes Sir.
Mr. Plummer: Are you telling me that the owner of record at the time
of condemnation was compensated because they were chopping his lot up?
Mr. Lloyd: Yes Sir, That eminent domain proceedings is known as
severance damages regardless of how much was condemned because this
was an entire lot. The present owner of the property at that time
under the condemnation proceedings could, would have had to had
under the Florida Constitution and the law acquired what is known in
eminent domain as severance damages.
They would have paid him severance damages for the obvious, not
necessarily ruination of that lot, but lets say cutting up of the lot.
Mr. Plummer: Then where are we failing Mr. Lloyd ?
Mr. Lloyd: He would have been paid for the value of the land that
was taken by the State Highway Department for the expressway plus
severance damages for the remainder of the property.
Mr. Plummer: Well somewhere along the line, this Commission is failing
or someone is failing. If they compensated him for that piece of
property plus they gave him severance as you call it, why does he still
own it?
Mr. Lloyd: The reason is that they didn't take all of the property
because it wasn't necessary. They could have but there would be nothing
for them to do with it but, the law requires that you provide severance
and he still owns it but he was compensated for the fact that the lot
was changed, the configuration of the .lot was changed so that he
suffered a loss so that he did acquire severance damages.
Mr. Plummer: Mr. Rose, was your client the owner of this property at
the time that the expressway condemnation came through?
Mr. Rose: That is correct.
Mr. Plummer: So in fact 'he, were they in fact compensated by the
State Road Dept. for the reduction in the size of this lot?
Mr. Rose: They were compensated for the taking away of the property.
They were not adequately compensated for as your Counsel has told you,
severance of the property which would make this property worthless to them.
Mr. Plummer: Did they accept the condemnation offer or did they
fight it in Court?
Mr. Rose: I don't know because I did not represent theca. I don't
know what the offer was.
Mr. Plummer: Yours is not an isolated case Sir. I recall where it
was a very difficult decision for this Commission when the Knights of
Columbus, a thousand people down here screaming at us, that they had
purchased a piece of property and we had to tell them NO and find
out the people who sold the property had got the money and gone to
Venezuela.
145 JUL 261973
• •
Now, somewhere along the line, something is failing because this
Commission is being placed in. a jeopardy situation by virtue of
somebody confiscating, somebody getting ,paid, but then the ultimate
is somebody coming here and saying, please help us out when it isn't
right, so -
Mr. Rose: Mr. Plummer, this man has bought this property. The
expressway came in and they took half of his property away. They
compensated him for that. He is stuck now with a smaller piece of
property which under the Planning & Zoning Board regulations and the
Ordinances, he can't construct a building there. He is now asking
for a variance for 4' to make it more livable.
He is all the time paying sewage taxes and everything else.
The government isn't compensating him for that.
Mr. Plummer: I don't dispute that but are you telling me in so many
words, that your client was not aware at the time of the taking and
the settlement that he had a lot that he could only do with?
Is he saying to me that his client was not aware that once he accepted
that settlement from the State, that he had a piece of property that
he could only build a 12h' piece of building on?
Mr. Mayor, if it was you or I, we would tell the State to go drop dead.
Either buy the whole thing or lets go to Court and fight it out there
because I have got to believe that any court in the land would say,
State of Florida, take the whole thing because you are leaving him
with a parcel he can't use.
Mrs. Gordon: I want to ask an important question, may I?
How long ago was the taking?
Mr. Rose: Approximately 8 years.
Mrs. Gordon: All this time he has been paying taxes on it?
Mr. Rose: Yes Ma'am.
Mrs. Gordon: And since then he paid for some sewer improvements to
the area?
Mr. Rose: Yes Ma'am.
Mrs. Gordon: What neighbor on the expressway side which is the side
you are talking about in the variance, what neighbor is going to be
affected by this?
Mr. Rose: There are no neighbors would be affected. The only one and
Mr. Hornstein objected -
Mayor Ferre: Out of fairness, this gentleman has been nodding his
head and moving his hands so lets recognize him.
Mr. Hornstein: My nano is Sam Bornstein of the law firm of Shevin
and Shevin. I represent the neighbor which would be Lot 7 and the
southerly half of Lot 8 which is directly adjacent to this.
Mrs. Gordon: Is that in red or in white?
Mr. Hornstein: It is in white above the subject parcel in yellow
and Mrs. Shirley Gwynn is the owner right here and this is her
property is a lot and a half which is in white, Lot 7.
Now, what I would like to say #1. I don't believe it's before the
Commission to ask whether 7 years ago Mr. Miranda was property rep-
resented before an eminent domain hearing. There were a lot of other
people who did or did not have counsel, did or did not receive adequate
or more than adequate severance damages and severance damages were
given, there is a deed of record from Angel Miranda to the State
Department of Transportation. This is 7 years ago. It was 1966
when the deed was given.
146 JUL 2 61973
Mayor Ferre: I just want to tell you that we are going to vote on
this thing one way or the other in about 4 minutes.
Mr. Hornstein: I would just like to say that there is a value to
the property. It cannot be used as a single family home. He was
compensated or should have been in 1966. There are approximately 6
blocks from where you see am mended which is the state police station
all the way back to approximately N. W. 18th Avenue which has similar
lots varying in size from 14' to 35', each one of these except this
particular parcel has been sold to the adjoining neighbor and has
been made as a side -yard and has been sold for a price whether
adequate or not, again it is not before the Commission.
The use for this property after expressways come through can be just
that, a yard, a side -yard. It can be sold. It can be marketable.
It cannot be used I think, I was there this morning and you don't
have the benefit of seeing the property. Mr. Acton has seen it.
If you look at the picture, I think you can only see that it is
ludicrous to put any home on tha': tiny strip.
Mr. Plummer_ You are saying that and you are probably true but
you are placing this owner in a very untenable situation because
there is only 1 person he can sell to.
He doesn't have the right to go out and market his goods.
Shirley is the only one can buy it.
Mr. Hornstein: That's right. Well Mr. Plummer, again this is a question
which doesn't belong before this Commission. It belongs before
the State as to adequate representation of people in eminent domain
proceedings that they be fully as the new laws of today, full
disclosure. Perhaps in 1966 there wasn't full disclosure. The state
could have come in and stole this property away from him.
Mayor Ferre: A vote in 1'' minutes now.
Mr. Rose: Let me interject one thing. All we are asking this body to
do is to issue a variance to make this house more tenable, more
livable and make the setback 1' instead of 4'. It doesn't affect
this woman on her side. It's just that there is a property on which can
be constructed a single family dwelling and that's what we are asking
to do.
Mr. Hornstein: The last thing I would say is that it does affect
Mrs. Gwynn very much because this structure will lower the property
value of her house which is demoted by the expressway already.
Mayor Ferre: Okay, now the chair will accept a motion.
Mr. Plummer: To the department, can he build or draw a permit tomorrow
to put up a 12-1' wide structure?
Mr. Ferencik: In past cases, where this matter has come up and actually
there have been court tests over this thing. He can do this.
As long as he can meet the minimum square footage of the house on the
lot. A 2-bedroom house has to have a minimum of 650 sq,ft, in it and
he would have to meet the setback requirements which would leave him
a 12'2' wide house.
Mr. Plummer: What you are saying is, we are not denying him the
utilization, ?
I will move to uphold the Planning Department and the Planning Staff
and move to deny.
Mayor Ferre: Is there a second to the motion?
7=2 recommendation denial by the Planning f, Zoning Board. The Planning
Department recommended deferral and now they recommend a denial.
Mrs. Gordon: How about if we take a look at it? Go look at the area.
Mr. Acton: I might , my recommendation is based on the fact that
I believe that that type of house on this lot would be a detriment
to the neighborhood and I do believe it would be in the interest of
the Commission to take a look at the lot.
147
JUL 261973
•
Mr. Plummer: I will withdraw it -
Mayor Ferre: No you have a motion. Is there a second to that motion?
Mr. Plummer: Are you telling me I can't defer a motion?
Mayor Ferre: Are you going to withdraw my motion?
Mr. Plummer: I am withdrawing my motion.
If anyone wants to go look at it, they should be afforded that opportunity.
Mrs. Gordon: All right defer it to the next opportunity we have to
hear it. I would like to see the area.
Mayor Ferre: This matter is now deferred.
ON MOTION OF COMMISSIONER ROSE GORDEN, SECONDED BY REVEREND
GIBSON, THE MATTER WAS DEFERRED TO SEPTEMBER 13, 1973 by the
following vote - AYES: Messrs. Plummer, Reboso, Mrs. Gordon,
and Reverend Gibson. NOES: Mayor Ferre.
73, MAKE PROVISION FOR }IOLDING NON -PARTISAN PRIMARY ELECTION AND
REGULAR ELECTION FOR OFFICES OF _MAYOR AND TWO CITY COMMISSIONERS
The following resolution was introduced by Mr. Plummer who
moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 73-626
A RESOLUTION ;BAKING PROVISIONS FOR HOLDING A NON-
PARTISAN PRIMARY ELECTION FOR THE NOMINATION OF
CANDIDATES FOR THE OFFICES OF MAYOR AND TWO COMM-
ISSIONERS AND A LATER REGULAR MUNICIPAL ELECTION
UNLESS ALL OF SAID OFFICES HAVE BEEN FILLED IN THE
NON -PARTISAN PRIMARY ELECTION; PROVIDING FOR THE
REGISTRATION OF THE PERSONS QUALIFIED TO VOTE IN
SAID NON -PARTISAN PRIMARY ELECTION AND REGULAR
MUNICIPAL ELECTION; DESCRIBING THE REGISTRATION
BOOKS AND RECORDS MAINTAINED UNDER THE PROVISIONS
OF THE GENERAL LAWS OF FLORIDA AND CHAPTER 15 OF'
THE CODE OF THE CITY OF MIAMI WHICH THE CITY HAS
ADOPTED AND DESIRES TO USE FOR HOLDING SUCH NON-
PARTISAN PRIMARY ELECTION AND SUCE REGULAR MUNICIPAL
ELECTION; DESIGNATING AND APPOINTING THE CITY CLERK
AS THE OFFICIAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE COMMISSION
WITH RESPECT TG THE USE OF SUCH REGISTRATION BOOKS
AND RECORDS; DIRECTING THE CITY CLERK TO GIVE NOTICE
BY PUBLICATION OF THE ADOPTION OF THIS RESOLUTION
AND OF THE PROVISIONS HEREOF; DIRECTING THE CITY
CLERK TO CAUSE A CERTIFIED COPY HEREOF TO BE
DELIVERED TO THE SUPERVISOR OF ELECTIONS OF DADE
COUNTY NOT LESS THAN FORTY FIVE DAYS PRIOR TO THE
DATE OF SUCH NON PARTISAN ELECTION
(here follows body of resolution, omitted here and on file
in the City Clerks Office)
Upon being seconded by Mr. Reboso, the resolution was passed
and adopted by the following -vote - AYES: Messrs. Reboso, Plummer,
Mrs. Gordon, Reverend Gibson and Mayor Ferre. NOES: None
148
JUL 261973
74, FULL TIME CITY •[ORNEY - CONSIDERATION OF CHARTER AMENDMENT AND
STATEMENT BY COMMISSIONER J.L. PLUMMER
The Mayor announced the Commission was now ready to consider
this Charter Amendment.
Mr. Plummer: Mr. Mayor, I only have 1 question after the discussion
of this morning. This Commission can appoint and we can do certain
things and I only raise this for discussion among my fellow Commissioners.
It could present itself at a time where the same problem that we tried
to avoid this morning with the City Manager, could occur with the
City Attorney because he is appointed by the Commission and I see
the terminology here that Mrs. Gordon raised very quickly this morning
placed upon the City Attorney and 1 question whether or not we would
like to remove that, that he serves "at the will of the Commission"
or whether in fact -•th'e Ccmmission maybe like to make the wording
since he is a contract that we in fo:t would have to go through the
same procedures to dismiss him as we dismiss the Manager.
I only bring that up for discussion.
Mayor Ferro: Okay, I will give you my opinion on it. I think that
the Manager's role and the role of the City Attorney arc somewhat
different and my personal philosophy on it is that as far as the
Administration is concerned, or the Manager, that its not the same
and I would not apply the same criteria as the City Attorney and I
-think its somewhat different.
Mr. Plummer: Mr. Mayor, the reason I raised that question I guess
is because we are now proposing that we go to a full-time City
Manager and I think the same -
Mayor Ferro: I hope we have a full-time City Manager.
Mr. Plummer: I'm sorry, a full-time City Attorney. Now in the same
way that this City is going to endeavor to get the first class
Attorney to serve this Cty, aren't we going to be placing the
selection in jeopardy, by saying to a man, Sir, you come with us,
we'll only guarantee you 2 years.
Mayor Fcrre: That is the way it's been and thats the way -
Mr. Plummer: No Mr. Mayor, in the past it has been that he is only
a part time employee.
T am only raising that for discussion purposes
Mayor Ferrc: The County Attorney serves at the will of the Commission.
Mr. Plummer: So does the County Manager.
All I am saying is and T raise this question in the same manner that
it was discussed this morning. When we go to Joe McDoak and say to
him, Sir, we would like you to come serve as our City Attorney.
If you look at it in the same vein as Mr. Reese raised this morning,
and say gentlemen, where you have got the stipulation, where you could
be politically motivated and I serve at will, no, I don't want to give
up my practice.
Mayor Ferro: I think you are going to find that it is going to be
a little easier to get a City Attorney than, a competent City Attorney
than to get a competent City Manager.
Mr. Plummer: I hope you are right. I only raised the question as a
point of discussion because we cntt�red into it in depth this morning.
Mayor Fcrre: You have a valid point.
Rev. Gibson: Mr. Mayor, I find it difficult to ask a man to give up
his law practice. You are dealing with a very serious thing here, to
give up his law practice, to serve at the will of the Commission and
remember when he gives up that practice, he is giving up all that he
had. Thats all he had. Now I feel like the City Attorney ought to be
a full-time man but I think he ought to be under contract with the
right to buy up.
149 JUL 2 61973
• •
I served on the Board appointed by the Governor to restructure the
sc'.,o1 system and one of the things that really galled me when I was
there while we were deliberating was that we wanted to choose a
Superintendent of Public Instruction with no assurance to the man.
No guarantees. You wouldn't do it, I wouldn't Jo it, why expect
somebody else to do it?
I believe he ought to serve at the will of the Commission and if the
Commission should decide that the Commission ought to be priveleged
to buy up his contract but Mr. Mayor, you aren't going to get any
man who is worth a grain of salt. I hope I am wrong.
If the church I serve called and said I want you to serve at the will
of the Vestry, I would say you are foolish.
Mayor Ferre: Father Gibson, I think Darrey Davis sr -.red with grea..
distinction.
Rev. Gibson: Man that's a different kettle of fish.
Mayor Ferre: I think Tom Britten served with great distinction
and I realize the City of Miami's situation is different but I think
Al Rothstein has served with great distinction and I think that the
other people that have served in this capacity here, I realize that
the City because its part-time is different, but the County is not
different because that is full-time and I think Tom Britten and
Stewart Simon and previous to him, Darrey Davis have all served with
distinction. They are amongst the most knowledgable and highly
respected members of the legal profession in this town. They didn't
have any problems.
Rev. Gibson: Mr. Mayor, if you were an attorney and they asked you
to serve, would you be willing to give up your entire law practice
to come for an. uncertainty?
Mayor Ferre: It all depends on the kind of practice I had. If I were
making $25,000 a year and was offered $40,000, I think I would do it
and if I were making $100,000 and was offered $40,000, I wouldn't do
it and I wouldn't care what provisions you had in there.
Mr. Plummer: Hut Mr. Mayor, that's the point. Do we want a $25,000
lawyer?
Rev. Gibson: Amen.
Mayor Ferre: But you are not going to get a $100,00 lawyer.
Rev. Gibson: We want the best we can get though.
Mayor Ferre: You are going to get a $40,000 lawyer.
Mr. Plummer: The only point I am trying to bring. I am not trying
to lock in the new man because Mr. Rothstein has said either way,
he has had it. What I am trying to say Mr. Mayor is this. I think
that any man should have some kind of a guarantee. It doesn't preclude
this Commission from getting rid of him but they would have to follow a
procedure. I don't mean to rub salt in a wound but 2 weeks ago, this
Commission made a decision. Today this Commission reversed that
decision and what I am saying is, the same thing could happen with
the City Attorney.
Rev. Gibson: Amen.
_ }r. Plummer: All I am saying is, if you expect to go out and find the
n.ost capable qualified man for this position, I think that the man wants
to be assured in the same way you picked a Manager, that there is not
going to be political hankypanky, that there cannot be policital
hankypanky because before you can get rid of him, you have got to show
cause and you have got to give him a public hearing.
Mrs. Gordon: Use the him or her Mr. Plummer.
150
JUL 261973
Mr. Plummer: I am saying Mr. Mayor, that I think this needs to be
explored. I think my point, I can't get it out of my mind.
If you disagree with me, I hope you are right but -
Mayor Ferre: What do you want to do?
Mr. Rothstein: Mr. Mayor, I would point out from my own experience
and you have to remember something that you pointed out a little
earlier and that is that there is a definite, 4open , notoroius
plot by the Miami Herald and certain of the TV Stations to go against
the will of the people of the City of Miami to consolidate the
City into the County and therefore a County Manager and a County
Attorney is not in the same position as a City Manager and a City
Attorney.
The Miami Herald for example wrote an editorial about the County
Attorney costing the County some 40 million dollars, a bitter attack,
but nowhere in the media anywhere did they say he should be fired for
that, so I think while I do believe that a City Attorney should serve
at the will of the Commission, Mr. Plummer's suggestion that it be for
a term so that if you are going to get rid of the City Attorney,
I don't think that you need the provisions that you have for the
City Manager. 1 think you ought to have something so that if the man
gets thrown out, at least he knows you have to buy up his contract.
Mrs. Gordon: What you have written here Mr. Rothstein for the Manager
and I think it might be applicable to the Attorney, its well done.
Page 2.
Mayor Ferre: I don't want to complicate the procedures or the cause
and reasons on the attorn^y but I would not object to a very simple
insertion in here that the Attorney be hired for a 2-year period from
November to November provided that it is clearly spelled out that if
we fire him, we can fire him without cause, at will. In other words,
all we have to do is buy up the rest of the contract.
That gives him a certain amount of protection.
Mr. Plummer: My only comment there is Mr. Mayor. If you fire him
for violation of contract, I 'on't think we should have to buy up the
remainder.
Mr. Rothstein: Well all you have to do is put in here instead of
"shall serve at the will of the City Commission", -"shall serve for
a 2-year term from November to November".
Mayor Ferre: No you better make it from December because you have
elections in November.
Mr. Plummer: Mr. Rothstein, you know what I am trying to accomplish
SIr.
Mr. Rothstein: How about giving us a few minutes to draft that
and we can come back to it.
THE MATTER WAS THEN TEMPORARILY DEFERRED.
151 JUL 261973
•
75, PROPOSED CHARTER AMENDMENT - HIGHWAY IMPROVEMENTS
An Ordinance entitled -
AN ORDINANCE SETTING FORTH A PROPOSED
CHARTER AMENDMENT AMENDING SECTION 56 OF
THE CHARTER OF THE CITY OF MIAMI BY
DELETING FROM THE DEFINITION OF THE TERM
"HIGHWAY", THE WORDS "BUT NOT EMBRACING
A SIDEWALK" AND BY AMENDING THE SUBSECTION
UNDER IMPROVEMENTS AUTHORIZED TO BE MADE
UNDER THIS ACT WHICH IS ENTITLED "CLASS I"
TO READ AS FOLLOWS: "CLASS 1. HIGHWAY IMPROVEMENTS
EMBRACE THE GRP.DING, PAVING, REPAVING,
MACADAMIZING AND REMACADAMIZING OF HIGHWAYS,
WITH NECESSARY DRAINAGE, SEWER INLETS,
MANHOLE AND CATCH BASINS AND, IF THE
COMMISSION SO ORDERS, MAY EMBRACE CURBS
AND GUTTERS, SIDEWALKS AND LANDSCAPING
WHICH IMPROVEMENTS MAY BE FINANCED WITH
ANY FUNDS AVAILABLE FOR HUGHWAY CONSTRUCTION";
PROVIDING THAT THIS CHARTER AMENDMENT SHALL
BE REFERRED TO AS CHARTER AMENDMENT NO. 2;
REPEALING ALL ORDINANCES, CODE SECTIONS OR
PARTS THEREOF IN CONFLICT, INSOFAR AS THEY
ARE IN CONFLICT; CONTAINING A SEVERABILITY
PROVISION; DECLARING THIS ORDINANCE TO BE
AN EMERGENCY MEASURE; DISPENSING WITH THE
REQUIREMENTS OF READING THE SAME ON TWO
SEPARATE DAYS BY A VOTE OF NOT LESS THAN
FOUR -FIFTHS OF THE MEMBERS OF THE COMMISSION..
and
WAS INTRODUCED BY Mr. Plummer and
adoption as an emergency measure a
of reading same on two separate dad
following vote - AYES: Messrs. Re
Gibson and Mayor Ferre. NOES: No
Whereupon the Commission on motion
Gibson adopted said ordinance by the following vote - AYES: Messrs.
Plummer, Reboso, Reverend Gibson, I�
NOES: None
SAID ORDINANCE WAS DESIGNATED ORDINANCE NO.
seconded by Reverend Gibson for
dispensing with the requirement
-s, which was agreed to by the
of Mr. Plummer, seconded by Reverend
•
t
152 Jul 2 61973
boso, Plummer, Mrs. Gordon, Reverend
ne
rs. Gordon and Mayor Ferre.
8175.
76.
An Ordinance entitled -
AN ORDINANCE SETTING FORTH A PROPOSED
CHARTER AMENDMENT BY ADDING TO SECTION
56 (:i?I) OF THE CHARTER OF THE CITY OF
MIAMI A NEW PARAGRAPH CONTAINING THE
PROVISION THAT UPON SHOWING OF FINANCIAL
HARDSHIP BY THE PROPERTY OWNER THE COST
OF THE CONNECTION OF THE PROPERTY OWNER'S
PREMISES WITH THE LATERAL MAY BE MADE BY
THE CITY FROM ANY FUNDS AVAILABLE FOR
SANITARY SEWER CONSTRUCTION; WHICH COST SHALL
CONSTITUTE A LIEN UPON THE HOUSE, LAND
AND PREMISES AND SHALL BE PAYABLE IN
EQUAL ANNUAL INSTALLMENTS WITH INTEREST
AS PROVIDED FOR BY THE CITY COMMISSION;
AND SUBMITTING THE PROPOSED CHARTER AMEND-
MENT TO THE ELECTORS OF THE CITY OF MIAMI
AT THE GENERAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION ON
NOVEMBER 6, 1973; PROVIDING THAT THIS
CHARTER AMENDMENT SHALL BE REFERRED TO AS
CHARTER AMENDMEIT NO. 3; REPEALING ALL
ORDINANCES, CODE SECTIONS OR PAPTS TH'REOF
IN COLNrLICT, INSOFAR AS THEY ARE IN CONFLICT;
CONTAINING A SEVERABILITY PROVISION; DECLARING
THIS ORDINANCE TO BE AN EMERGENCY MEASURE;
DISPENSING WITH THE REQUIREMENT OF READING
THE SAME ON TWO SEPARATE DAYS BY A VOTE OF
NOT LESS THAN FOUR -FIFTHS OF THE MEMBERS
OF THE COMMISSION.
was introduced by Reverend Gibson and seconded by Mr. Plummer for
adoption as an emergency measure and dispensing with the requirement
of reading the same on two separate days, which was agreed to by the
following vote -.AYES: Messrs. Plummer, Reboso, Mrs. Gordon,
Reverend Gibson and Mayor Ferre. NOES: None.
Whereupon the Commission, on motion of Reverend Gibson,
seconded by Mr. Plummer, adopted said ordinance by the following vote -
AYES: Messrs. Reboso, Plummer, Mrs. Gordon, Reverend Gibson and
Mayor Ferre. Noes: None
SAID ORDINANCE WAS DESIGNATED ORDINANCE NO. 8176.
153 JUL 2 61973
77, PROPOSED CHARTER AMENDMENT - MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE RATE OF INTEREST
An Ordinance entitled -
AN ORDINANCE SETTING FORTH A PROPOSED
CHARTER AMENDMENT BY AMENDING SECTION
58(b) OF. THE CHARTER OF THE CITY OF
MIAMI TO PROVIDE THE DELETION OF THE
6% MAXIMUM INTEREST AND SUBSTITUTING A
MAXIMUM"INTEREST NOT TO EXCEED THE
RATE PROVIDED FOR IN THE STATUTES OF
THE STATE OF FLORIDA, TO DELETE THE
REQUIREMENT THAT THE"PRINCIPAL AND INTEREST
BE PAYABLE IN GOLD COIN"AND SUBSTITUTING
THEREFOR"LEGAL TENDER OF THE UNITED
STATES? AND SUBMITTING THE PROPOSED
CHARTER AMENDMENT TO THE ELECTORS OF THE
CITY OF MIAMI AT THE GENERAL MUNICIPAL
ELECTION ON NOVEMBER 6, 1973; PROVIDING
THAT THIS PROPOSED CHARTER AMENDMENT
SHALL BE REFERRED TO AS PROPOSED CHARTER
AMENDMENT NUMBER 4, REPEALING ALL
ORDINANCES, CODE SECTIONS OR PARTS
THEREOF IN CONFLICT, INSOFAR AS THEY
ARE IN CONFLICT; CONTAINING A SEVEI2ABILITY • ,
PROVISION; DECLARING THIS ORDINANCE TO BE
AN EMERGENCY MEASURE DISPENSING WITH
THE REQUIREMENT OF READING THE SAME ON.
TWO SEPARATE DAYS BY A VOTE OF NOT LESS
THAN FOUR -FIFTHS OF THE MEMBERS OF THE
COMMISSION.
was introduced by Mr. Plummer and seconded by Reverend Gibson for
adoption as an emergency measura and dispensing with the requirement
of reading same on two separate days, which was agreed to by the
following vote - AYES: Messrs. Plummer, Reboso, Mrs. Gordon,
Reverend Gibson and Mayor Ferre. NOES: None.
Whereupon the Commission, on motion of Mr. Plummer, seconded by
Reverend Gibson,'adopted said ordinance by the following vote -
AYES: Messrs. Plummer, Reboso, Mrs. Gordon, Reverend Gibson and
Mayor Ferre. NOES: None
SAID ORDINANCE WAS DESIGNATED ORDINANCE NO. 8177.
154
JUL 261973
•
78, PROPOSED CHARTER AMENDMENT - DELETE ..LIMITATION OF .YEARS ON
ASSESSMENTS FOR IMPROVEMENTS
An Ordinance entitled -
AN ORDINANCE SETTING FORTH A PROPOSED
CHARTER AMENDMENT BY AMENDING SECTION
56(P) OF THE CHARTER OF THE CITY OF
MIAMI BY DELETING THE LIMITATION ON THE
NUMBER OF YEARS IN WHICH THE SPECIAL
ASSESSMENT FOR IMPROVEMENTS SHALL BE
REPAID FROM TEN (10) SUCCEEDING YEARS
"OR SUCH SHORTER PERIOD" ADDING THE TERM
TEN (10) YEARS OR SUCH PERIOD; AND SUB-
MITTING THE PROPOSED CHARTER AMENDMENT TO
THE ELECTORS OF THE CITY OF MIAMI AT THE
GENERAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION ON NOVEMBER 6,
1973; PROVIDING THAT THIS PROPOSED CHARTER
AMENDMENT SHALL BE REFERRED TO AS PROPOSED
CHARTER AMENDMENT NUMBER 5; REPEALING ALL
ORDINANCES CODE SECTIONS OR PARTS THEREOF
IN CONFLICT, INSOFAR AS THEY ARE IN CONFLICT;
CONTAINING A SEVERABILLTY PROVISION; DECLARING
THIS ORDINANCE TO BE AA EMERGENCY MEASURE;
DISPENSING WITH THE REQUIREMENT OF READING
THE SAME ON TWO SEPARATE DAYS BY A VOTE OF
NOT LESS THAN FOUR -FIFTHS OF THE :MEMBERS OF
THE COMMISSION.
was introduced by Mr. Plummer and seconded by Mr. Reboso for adoption
as an emergency measure and dispensing with the requirement of reading
same on two separate days, which was agreed to by the following vote -
AYES: Messrs. Plummer, Reboso, Mrs. Gordon, Reverend Gibson and Mayor
Ferre. NOES: None
Whereupon the Commission, on motion of Mr. Plummer, seconded by Mr.
Reboso, adopted said ordinance by the following vote - AYES:
Messrs. Plummer,.Reboso, Mrs. Gordon, Reverend Gibson and Mayor Ferre.
NOES: None.
SAID ORDINANCE WAS DESIGNATED GRDINANCE NO. 8178.
155
JUL 2 61973
79, PROPOSED CHARTER AMENDMENT - CHANCE TIME FOR DEADLINE FOR
QUALIFICATION
An Ordinance entitled -
AN ORDINANCE SETTING FORTH A PROPOSED CHARTER
AMENDMENT BY ADDING TO SECTION B OF THE CHARTER
OF THE CITY OF MIAMI A PROVISION THAT ALL SUCH
QUALIFYING FEES SHALL BE fFnOSITED WITH THE SAID
CITY CLERK NO LATER THAN 6200 P.M. ON THE 45TH
DAY PRIOR TO THE ELECTION; AND SUBMITTING THE
PROPOSED CHARTER AMENDMENT TO THE ELECTORS• OF
THE CITY OF MIAMI AT THE GENERAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION
ON NOVEMBER Z., 1973; PROVIDING THAT THIS PROPOSED
CHARTER AMENDMENT SHALL BE REFERRED TO AS PROPOSED
CHARTER AMENDMENT NUMBER 6; REPEALING ALL ORDINANCES,
CODE SECTIONS OR PARTS THEREOF IN CONFLICT, INSOFAR
AS THEY ARE IN CONFLICT; CONTAINING A SEVERABILITY
PROVISION; DECLARING THIS ORDINANCE TO BE AN
EMERGENCY MEASURE; DISPENSING WITH THE REQUIREMENT
OF READING THE SAME ON TWO SEPARATE DAYS BY A VOTE
OF NOT LESS THAN FOUR/FIFTHS OF THE MEMBERS 0e TIE
COMMISSION.
was introduced by Mr. Plummer and seconded by Reverend Gibson for
adoption as an emergency measure and dispensing with the requirement
of reading same on two separate days, which was agreed to by the
following vote - AYES: Messrs. Plummer, Reboso, Mrs. Gordon,
Reverend Gibson and Mayor Ferre. NOES: None
Whereupon the Commission on motion of Mr. Plummer, seconded by
Reverend Gibson adopted said ordinance by the following vote -
AYES7 Messrs. Plummer, Reboso, Mrs. Gordon, Reverend Gibson and
Mayor Ferre. NOES: None
SAID ORDINANCE WAS DESIGNATED ORDINANCE NO. 8179.
156
JUL 261973
80. MAKE PROVISIOK FOR SPECIAL ELECTION FOR CHARTER AMENDMENTS
The following resolution was introduced by Mrs. Gordon who
moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 73-627
A RESOLUTION MAKING PROVISIONS FOR HOLDING A
SPECIAL ELECTION FOR THE PURPOSE OF SUBMITTING
TO THE ELECTORATE SIX (6) PROPOSED CHARTER
AMENDMENTS FOR THEIR APPROVAL OR DISAPPROVAL;
PROVIDING FOR THE REGISTRATION OF PERSONS
QUALIFIED TO VOTE IN SAID SPECIAL CHARTER AMEN-
DMENT ELECTION; DESCRIBING THE REGISTRATION BOOKS
AND RECORDS MAINTAINED UNDER THE PROVISIONS OF
THE GENERAL LAWS OF FLORIDA AND CHAPTER 15 OF THE
CODE OF THE CITY OF MIAMI WHICH THE CITY HAS
ADOPTED AND DESIRES TO USE FOR HOLDING SUCH SPECIAL
CHARTER AMENDMENT ELECTION; DESIGNATING AND
APPOINTING THE CITY CLERK AS THE OFFICIAL
REPRESENTATIVE OF THE COMMISSION WITH RESPECT
TO THE USE OF SUCH REGISTRATION BOOKS AND RECORDS;
DIRECTING THE CITY CLERK TO GIVE NOTICE BY PUB-
LICATION OF THE ADOPTION OF THIS RESOLUTION AND
TO CAUSE A CERTIFIED COPY HEREOF TO BE DELIVERED
TO THE SUPERVISOR OF ELECTIONS.OF DADE COUNTY NOT
LESS THAN 4S DAYS PRIOR TO THE DATE OF SUCH SPECIAL
CHARTER AMENDMENT ELECTION
(Here follows body of resolution, omi.ted here and on
file in the City Clerks Office)
Upon being seconded by Mr. Plummer, the resolution was passed
and adopted by the following vote - AYES:. Messrs. Plummer, Reboso,
Mrs. Gordon, Reverend Gibson and Mayor Ferre. NOES: None
15 `7
J U L 2 61973
81, PLANNING AND ZONING PROCEDURES -HEARING CONTINUATION:
Mayor Ferre: Let the record show it is 3:30 P.M. and
we are taking up item 59.
Professor, would you bring us up to date as to what
you've accomplished in the last two weeks in you deliberations
with the City Attorney and the Manager. And where is the
re -draft that we were going to get.
Dr. Bartley: Let me cover just what you have just
suggested Mr. Mayor in a minute or so, then make a suggestion
which may meet the approval of the Commission. You have in
your hands, you've all been provided with I think from Mr.
Simpson's office a revised draft of the proposal,
which reflect first of all the materials that were presented
in memoranda by the City Manager's office, the City Attorney's
office, Mr. Simpson and we met and we went over line by line
the original draft on which you have been working, and we
incorporated into that draft all of the tentative decisions
which this Commission had taken today, we have done a full
editing job. The new draft is now entitled 'Draft 25, May,1973'
then revised 18 July, 1973, It contains nothing by the
way of new material. Nobody has tried to slip anything in here.
It does represent reorganization, for example, the tentative
decision that this Commission took to establish a separate
article on 'Notice' so that the material on notice now appears
at another point in the draft. But I do give assurance to this
Commission and to all the people here that there is nothing
new substantively in this draft. There remains, and this is
where 1 want to make my suggestion, Mr. Mayor, ---there remain
probably some 15 or 18 points in the draft which for want of
a better term we can call policy issue on which this Commission
will have to have to take of course, some kind of action.My
feeling, having sat here today is that we would probably be
better advised,I think our heads would work better, and I think
our decisions would be better, were we to make it a point of
procedure on the 13th of September which I believe is your
next meeting, Specifically to allow enough time on the agenda
to get over these some 15 or 16, 17 items of policy. I also
call to your attention, for the purpose of the record, that
there were a considerable number of people here this afternoon,
of course found it was necessary for them to leave, and I am
sure that this Commission will of course want to afford those
individuals a full opportunity to make such comment as they
may wish to make. I do feel that since they ----you do have a
revised draft here, and since this revised draft has not been
available until the last day or so, generally to the public,
that perhaps this suggestion of mine, about the 13th of September,
even though it may delay a potential passage of this ordinance
by a couple of weeks, I suggest Mayor Ferro, and members of the
Commission this might be the wiser course.
Mrs. Gordon: Professor Bartley, would it be possible that
the 15,16 or 17 points which will need policy decision be listed
and given to us for our consideration in the interim period of
time so that we may reading and studying this draft be able to
have a more or less idea of how we felt about those points prior
to the September meeting.
Dr. Bartley: I think this is possible on some of them,
Mrs. Gordon. On others of them, quite frankly, while they
are matters of policy they also would require some explanation
on my part for appreciation of technical understanding. For
example, and I'm not suggesting that we take this of now,but
i want to point out something of that, a matter of that
nature on page 13, line 15 and 16, this a matter of policy
158
7/26/73
yes, ----remember that your zoning board here in line 9 is
serving in a legislative capacity in recommending rezoning
or not recommending the rezoning of property. That is legis-
lative in character. Starting with line 15, your zoning board
is wearing a different hat. That hat is a quasi-judicial hat
and the language there,'it shall serve as the quasi-judicial
instrument for the hearing of appeals concerning interpretation
or administration of the comprehensive zoning ordinance for
variance and conditional use.' The City Manager's memorandum
has raised some questions about line 16 in terms of the zoning
board serving as an instrument of appeals from some interpretation
of the building department. The first time I saw it I will
admit that I couldn't quite understand why the point had been
raised because nowhere in 20 years of experience here in Florida
has this language had ever been questioned. Then I found out
that you had operated under a little different procedure here
in terms of an interpretation of the zoning ordinance by the
building department so we'd have to get into some background
here on this thing which I think it would be a little difficult
to get into in a memorandum. This language'is the standard
language for all of the zoning ordinances of the State,which
I have any knowledge and I have knowledge of a good many of
them, obviously in this point, Mr. Reese should however, and
he certainly will want to comment that same point, is found
on page 15 as well, lines 12 and 13 where the interpretation
or administration thing comes up again.
I am at your pleasure of course, ----
Mrs. Gordon: Dr. Bartley, having gone through this,these,
various sessions with us you realize that on our regular Commission
.meeting our time gets shortened so that we really become in-
effective in making some of these very decisions for the lack
of time. wouldn't it be a better idea to take a day in the
month of September, let's say the 6th of September and use
that day only for this purpose of finishing up the policy
decision, then of course we logically move ahead but I think
if we move ahead, but I think if we wait until the 13th and
I know after having no meetings in August, this 13th will be
no better than today has been and we will accomplish very
little actual work.
Dr. Bartley: I t:,ink you are absolutely correct, Mrs.
Gordon. The real point of my suggestion was that I felt
that we would not accomplish much here tonight and if this
Commission in its wisdom should see fit to schedule a special
meeting, for an entire day, I think that this would be an
excellent idea. I would suggest to Mr. Rothstein and Mr.Turner
and Mr. Simpson that if such a special meeting is to be scheduled
and if such a special meeting is indeed to constitute a legal
public hearing, that of course appropriate notice should be
given, then I will leave that to them.
Mrs. Gordon: I would then so like to move, if it is
agreeable with the Commissions and the Mayor that September 6th
be reserved specifically for the completion of the policy
decisions that have to be made on this, and then they could
be re -written which they would have to be, and then possibly
the 13th we could have the first reading.
Mayor Ferre: I agree to that if everybody else does.
Mrs. Gordon: Then I move it.
Dr. Bartley: What time, Mrs. Gordon?
159
7/26/73
Mrs. Gordon: I would say 9:00 o'clock in the morning
when we are thinking clearly.
Mayor Ferre: Make it 10:00 o'clock please.
Dr. Bartley: Thank you, Mayor Ferre.
Mayor Ferre: Would you like me to make it 11:00 7
Mrs. Gordon: Don't make it too late, because we break
for lunch.
Mayor Ferre: All right, 10:00 o'clock.
Mr. Southern, City Clerk: Mrs. Gordon, is this to
be an advertised public hearing?
•
Mrs. Gordon:
Mayor Ferre:
hearing.
Mrs. Gordon: All right, ----
Yes, is it
No, no, it
should be,
is a continuance of this public
Mayor Ferre:We have a public hearing, we are just going
to continue it, like it's been in the past. We haven't advertised
every time.
Mrs Gordon: Would we :gave a problem, Mr. Rothstein if
we don't?
Mayor Ferre: The word will get out, you know everybody
who is here on this public hearing? f(ands? one, two , three,
well, it is your job to spread the word to the rest of the
committee and the world.
Mrs. Gordon: Let's take a vote on the date.
Mr. Rothstein: It certainly wouldn't hurt to have a
courtesy notice published.
Mayor Ferre: All riciht, have a courtesy notice published.
Mrs. Gordon: I would recommend that.
Mayor Ferre: Harold recommended publishing whatever it is, ---
Mrs. Gordon: September 6, 1973, at 10:00 o'clock A.M.,
a one item agenda.
Thereupon the following resolution was introduced by
Mrs. Gordon who moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 73-628
A RESOLUTION TO CONTINUE THE FUBLIC HEARING
ON PROPOSED RESTRUCTURING OF THE CITY OF
MIAMI'S PLANNING AND ZONING PROCEDURES HELD
THIS DATE TO A•SPECIAL MEETING TO BE HELD
AT 10:00 O'CLOCK A.M. ON SEPTEMBER 6,1973
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here and on
file in theCity Clerk's office.)
160
7/26/73
Upon being seconded by Mr. Plummer, the resolution was
passed and adopted by the following vote - AYES: Messrs.
Plummer, Reboso, Reverend Gibson, Mrs. Gordon and Mayor
Ferre. NOES: None.
Mrs. Gordon: May I ask another question before we go
on, ---if we are going to have a first reading on the 13th
that would then mean that this item would have to be
a dvertised for another public hearing, ----
Mayor Ferre: Do it at the same time you do the other one, --
MR. Rothstein: No, Ma'am, it would be on the agenda, --
regular agenda meeting like any other ordinance.
Mayor Ferre: Okay,
Mrs. Gordon: ---for the 13th,
Mr. Plummer: Dr. Bartley, is your contract with the
City for this consultant fee, sir does it include X number
of dollars plus expenses for travel?
Dr. Bartley: No.
Mr. Plummer: Here, this man has come here all day, ---
Dr. Bartley: I am going to charge you for the time. I
am not going to charge for the travel.
Mr. Plummer: I thought you were on an X number of dollars
contract.
Dr. Bartley: No. Let me explain the contract/ a nd
Mr. Reese can correct me if I am wrong. There is a maximum
amount Mr. Plummer, at so many.dollars per day. I do not
charge the City for travel because of certain accounting
problems and that sort of thing. We are, I haven't figured
it, we are approaching that maximum amount because of the
hours that have been devoted to it, however in the letter
of contract, there was provision that if the hearings ran on
excessively long and that kind of thing,then there would
be some kind of mutual arrangement.
Mayor Ferre: As long as Mr. Kaplan is not you attorney
on time and a half we think we will come to an agreement.
7/26/73
161
• 1
82, HISTORICAL MARKER - COMMEMORATE LANDING OF MENENDEZ
Mrs. Gordon: Mr. Mayor, I have a small item t.o tell you about.
The Historical Association asked that I ask t,lis Commission for
permission for the placement of a Historical Marker commemorating
the landing of Menendez on Biscayne Bay in 1587, this to be placed
in that triangle on Biscayne Boulevard where it circles and joins
into S. E. 2nd Street.
I am placing this before you because they have this very beautiful
plaque to put there.
I would like to move it.
Mr. Plummer: Has this been before our committee?
Mrs. Gordon: I think it has been and I think Mr. Reese you have had
communication too.
Mr. Reese: Yes, but I would like to bring to the Commission's
attention that if you are going to put this beautiful plaque there, you
give us enough time to go down and report back at the next Commission
Meeting because that triangle might be one that is going to come out
on this new transportation study.
Mayor Ferre: That triangle may not be a triangle is what he is saying.
Mrs. Gordon: Well it could he put there until its no longer a triangle.
Mayor Ferre: Pass it as a motion of intent.
The following resolution was introduced by Mrs. Gordon who
moved this adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 73-629
ti RESOLUTION DECLARING THE POLICY OF THE CITY
COMMISSION THAT A HISTORICAL MARKER COMMEMORATING
THE LANDING OF MENENDEZ ON THE SHORES OF BISCAYNE
BAY IN 1587 BE PLACED AT THE TRAFFIC ISLAND AT
BISCAYNE BOULEVARD AND S. E. 2ND STREET AND RE-
QUESTING THE CITY MANAGER TO INVESTIGATE THE
FEASIBILITY OF SUCH LOCATION AND ALSO SUCH ACTION
BE CONTINGENT UPON THE APPROVAL OF THE MEMORIAL
COMMITTEE
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here and on file
in the City Clerks Office)
Upon being seconded by Mr. Plummer, the resolution was passed
and adopted by the following vote - AYES: Messrs. Plummer, Reboso,
Mrs. Gordon, Reverend Gibson and Mayor Ferre. NOES: None
The City Manager reminded the City Commission about a meeting
on July 30, 1973 regarding a review of Dade County Master Plan for
information.
162 JUL 261973
•
83. FIXING SALARY DETAILS FOR PAUL W. ANDREWS WHEN HE ASSUMES DUTIES
OF THE CITY MANAGER
Mr. Plummer: Mr. Mayor, can we at this time enter into discussion
that was postponed from this morning?
I have something in mind but its open for discussion and that is I
think that we should set the salary of the new City Manager.
Mayor Ferre: Go ahead and set it.
Mr. Plummer: I would like to propose based on the schedule of the
Yarger Pay Plan, keeping in mind Mr. Paul Andrews has been here with
the City for a great number of years that we propose his salary in
increments at the level of $42,200 and also to include the emoluments
of the former manager as they stand.
Mayor Ferre: How much is Mr. Reese making?
Mr. Plummer: He is making 45.
Mayor Ferre: There is a motion. Seconded by Mrs. Gordon.
Any further discussion? Call the roll please.
Mr. Southern, City Clerk: Mr. Mayor, could we clarify that remark
about including the emoluments of the former Manager?
Mr. Plummer: To include the emoluments of the former Manager.
Mayor Ferre: That's just a fancy word for an automobile.
The following resolution was introduced by Mr. Plummer who
moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 73-630
A RESOLUTION FIXING THE STARTING SALARY OF PAUL
W. ANDREWS, WHEN HE ASSUMES THE DUTIES OF CITY
MANAGER ON AUGUST 17, 1973, AT $42,200.00 PER
YEAR, AND TO BE IN INCREMENTS AS SET FORTH IN THE
YARGER PAY PLAN SUBMITTED TO THE CITY; AND FURTHER
PROVIDING THAT SAID PAUL W. ANDREWS, AS CITY MANAGER
RECEIVE THE SAME EMOLUMENTS OF OFFICE AS WERE
RECEIVED BY THE FORMER MANAGER, M. L. REESE
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here and on
file in the City Clerks Office)
Upon being seconded by Mrs. Gordon, the resolution was passed
and adopted by the following vote - AYES: Messrs. Plummer, Reboso,
Mrs. Gordon, Reverend Gibson and Mayor Ferre. NOES: None
163
R4, AUTHORIZE AGREEMENT - MEL REESE AND ASSOCIATES
Mayor Ferre: What else have you got?
City Clerk: We haven't acted on #61 yet.
Mayor Ferre: All right, ---
Mr. Rothstein: Before you do that, I would like
out a resolution in which the City Attorney's office
to you a recommendation for a contract to be entered
Mr. Reese, ---
Mayor Ferre: Who is the contract on ?
Mr.
I wish I
Mr.
new City
with Mel
with the
to pass
is giving
into with
Plummer: For the consultant, Mel Reese and Associates.
had the concession on paper today.
Rothstein: This is for the purpose of authorizing the
Manager, after August 20th to enter into negotiations
Reese and Associates Inc. for the consulting purposes
City.
Mr. Plummer: This is just to enter into the contract?
Mr. Rothstein: This is in effect these are the terms
as spelled out here z.nd if Mr. Reese, ---enter into negotiation,
and if Mr. Reese, ----sorry about that, ---if Mel Reese and Assoc.
Inc. accept these terms after August 20, and the new City Manager
Mr. Andrews, is authorized to enter into the contract.
Mr. Ferre: I first want to know whether the associates of
Mel Reese Associate go home Mr. Reese? the other associate, ---
Mr. Plummer: I want to know if we got a record check on them?
Mayor Ferre: What do you mean,a record?
Mr. Reese: I've had my record,--i can speak in behalf of
Mel Reese and Associates.
Mayor Ferre: You'd better not let Roxcy Bolton hear you
say that.
Mr. Reese:When I needed Roxcy Bolton this afternoon, she
is not here.
Mayor Ferre: I won't ask you why, Mr. Reese. --
Mx. Reese: I'll answer the question, and that was on this
parking lot lighting thing.
Mayor Ferre: I'm not going to ask you though. Okay, ---
we have a motion before us, --
Commissions Plummer: I'll move it, ---
Mayor Ferre: I want to make a correction if I could, on this
motion. I think we ought to have a clause in there, Mr. City Atty
that says that if Mr. Reese takes any other consulting jobs, that
we have priority on his time.
Mr. Rothstein: Let's amend that to be "I", ---
Mr. Plummer: What is the wordhng on it.
164 JUL 2 61973
41
Mr. Rothstein: The wording will be, ---'in he event that
Mel Reese and Associates, Inc shall be carrying out consulting
activity for any other governmental body or persons that the
first priority for the services of Melvin Reese of that consulting
firm shall be to the City of Miami.
Mayor Ferre: Is that acceptable to Melvin Reese Associate.
Mr. Rothstein: He can't neg) tiOe with you now. He can't
negotiate with you now.
Mr. Plummer: We have a priority on his time.
Mrs. Gordon: I have another question under "B".
Mr. Rothstein: If he doesn't want to accept it then he
has to come back to another commission meeting.
Mrs. Gordon: Just the classification I would like to know, --
it says, payment shall be $25,000. per annum for up to 1,000 hours
consulting services upon request of the City Commission, but suppose
we don't use Mel's services for a thousand hours, and only use them
for five hundred, is that adjusted?
Mr. Rothstein:
of taking this cons
Reese as an officer
of interest law, is
might arise dealing
understood what the
of this resolution
order to forego the
Miami, that he has
from the City. For
may be you ask him
that could take him
take five weeks.
No, Ma'am, because of this reason, as a result
ultation, Mel Reese and Assoc. Inc and Mr. Melvin
of that corporation, under the County conflict
precluded from taking any consulting work, that
with the City of Miami, and therefore, as I
Commission was telling us to do for the purpose
and a contract, he would have to know that in
opportunity to take projects within theCity of
a certain amount of guaranteed consulting work
example because of Mr. Reese's expertise it
a particular question, a particular consultation
one hour, where any other consulting firm would
Mayor Ferre: That brings up.a question, ---
Mr. Rothstein: ---the point is, what you are doing, you are
hiring him as a consultant for $25,000. a year. The only purpose
of the thousand hours is No. 1 to make an outside limit on the
time he has to spend, and No. 2 also, for billing purposes for the
City for allocation to various projects, bond issues and funds,
so you are hiring him for two years at $25,000 a year.
Mayor Ferre: That brings up a question, what happens if Mr.
Reese accepts a consulting service with the City of Ft. Lauderdale
Ft. Meyers, Naples and the County and all of a sudden, he spends
1500 hours in those different services, what happens to the City
of Miami?
Mr. Rothstein: Well, if Mel Reese and Assoc do not provide
for the consulting services as requested by the City Commission
of the City of Miami, then there is a failure of consideration of
a contract, and he is not entitled to continue on in the contract.
He breaches the contract, ---
Mayor Ferre: I want this on the record, ---
Mr. Plummer: Is that covered Mr. Mayor, under the last item
inserted, a priority?
Mr. Rothstein: obviously, if he breaches the contract by not
being responsive , then he's breached the contract, and the contract
is terminated.
165
JUL 961973
Mayor Ferre: Okay, all clear, is there any further discussion?
Is there a motion on this, ----resolution as amended? with Item I, --
Thereupon the following resolution was introduced by Mr.
Plummer who moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 73-631
A RESOLUTION APPROVING TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF
AN AGREEMENT TO BE ENTERED INTO BETWEEN THE
CITY OF MIAMI, FLORIDA, AND MEL REESE AND
ASSOCIATES, INC. FOR CONSULTING SERVICES;
SETTING FORTH TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF SUCH
AGREEMENT; DIRECTING THE CITY CLERK AND
CITY MANAGER TO ENTER INTO SUCH AGREEMENT
ON OR AFTER AUGUST 20, 1973 BUT PRIOR TO
AUGUST 2?, 1973
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here and on
file in the City Clerk's office.)
Upon being seconded b} Mr. Reboso, the resolution was passed
and adopted by the following vote - AYES: Messrs. Plummer, Reboso
Mrs. Gordon, Reverend Gibson and Mayor Ferre. NOES: None.
Mr. Rothstein: Let me also point out the provision in here
as a consultant, he and part of his job is not to be bound by
the policy of the Commission. In other words, his job as a con-
sultant, is to tell you what he thinks and he is free to say
what he thinks, ---
Mayor Ferre: Yes, we saw that.
Mr. Rothstein: Okay, ---
Mr. Plummer: You'd better believe that.
Mayor Ferre: You didn't need that one with Mr. Reese's
case. Anyway, I'm glad it is there.
Mr. Plummer: Mr. Rothstein, just also since everybody is
getting everything clear, do I understand that this now will
be given to Mr. Andrews to negotiate?
Mr. Rothstein: That's right. They have a specific contract
prepared pursuant to the terms of this resolution.
Mr. Plummer: And if it is agreed upon by both parties, it
then is final and effective.
Mr. Rothstein: If it is accepted by Mel Reese and Associates
Mr. Andrews can execute it.
166
JUL 2 61973
• •
85, ORANGE BOWL IMPROVEMENTS PROGRAM - REFINED ESTIMATES
Mr. Reese: I passed out before the Commission a budget
estimate evaluation of the appraisals that we had,the
estimates rather, that we had arrived at in the preliminary
submission to the City Commission, on the plan for the
remodeling of the Orange Bowl. I gave you a memorandum
first of all explaining, what procedure we followed on
the selection of a consulting engineer. This memorandum is
self explanatory and will clarify any misunderstanding that
anybody might have had how we selected an engineering firm.
Mayor Ferre:Let's put that into the record,Mx. Southern, ---
Mr. Reese's memorandum dated July 26, 1973 subject Orange
Bowl improvements program refined, ----
Mx. Reese: Yes, sir this was just passed out, Mr. Southern,
City Clerk: Yes, I have it here.
Mr. Reese: I would like Vince Grimm to explain the variations
in these estimates.
Mr. Grimm, Director of Public Works: Mr. Andrews is
going to hand out a sheet that was originally printed in
the City's estimate,.the consultants in their report basically
followed the same theme, so there is an easy comparison. If you
will open your book to page 11, you can compare it with the
white sheet we have handed out. Going quickly to the bottom,
you will see that our total improvement program was in round
figures $16,000,000. and Connell's in about $18,300,000. Now
that is a little over two million dollars difference, most of
this difference comes in their up -grading construction costs.
Their report back here is more detailed and generally they
have approached each item of estimating on two different
basises, one by up -grading of construction indexes and another
by more detail breakdown. I think myself that the comparison
more or less would eliminate, even though it is greater, the
fear I think that was versed to Mr. Reese it was impossible
to up -grade the Orange Bowl for anything like $16,000,000.
so the $18,000,000. is within this ballpark as far as I am
concerned.
Mr. Reese: Now one of the public questions that was
raised on the estimate, we put a figure in the preliminary
plan to say that an electronic scoreboard would be $600,000.
It was never comtemplated that the City or the Orange Bowl
would ever buy a scoreboard. It was contemplated at all times
that we would get a sponsor to put this scoreboard in to pay
for it and have the benefit of the advertising on it. So
the $600,000. estimate is set aside. And that is going to
be determined on what the individuals think that space is
going to be worth. And that will set the price. Then the
other aspect of it is a sky -deck room. It was always in the
Flan brought forth that this could be carried out not as
an item that would be paid for by public funds, but we could
set up a finance arrangement for the individuals who rent
these sky rooms to pay for them over a fair period of time
and that each one of these rooms, if they are rented as a
pro -rated cost would be a very, very adequate income and also
a fair offer for the individual who would want to rent one or
want to enter into the agreement, so this sky deck question
16'7
7/26/73
1
1
of $5,332,825.00 is something that is going to be subject to
the fee that will be set for the building or for the structure.
(inaudible question)
Mr. Reese: That's what I am saying so any disagreement
on our estimates on that sets it aside because it might end
up to ----necessary to adjust the cost we thought we would have
to have for those rooms.
Mr. Plummer: In other words, what you are talking about
in round figures is twelve,five is what we had to provide ---
Mr. Reese: That is approximately what we are going to
have to come up with in funding.
Mr. Plummer: Mr. Reese, are you still of the opinion
as you were before that these improvements can be made without
a special bond or going to the ad valorem taxes.
Mr. Reese: I suggested to the Commission at that time
that some one proceed to renegotiate the power of franchise
which is due in 1981, renegotiate it for a 30 year period
because I don't think another power company is going to be
established in the City of Miami and the revenue that would
come in could be used to borrow money for a period of time
and use the revenue of the Florida Power & Light Com nany
franchise to pay off this $12.000,000. debt.
Mayor Ferre: How much is that a year, Mr. Reese?
Mr. Reese: I think this year we got $1,800,000. and
I think there are six bond issues out against it now.
Mayor Ferre: So how much did we place on that in
your opinion, roughly speaking.
Mr. Reese: I can't answer because it has been different
years.
Mayor Ferre: Would it be a million dollars?
Mr. Reese: Oh, yes, it was more than a million dollars.
Mayor Ferre: In other words, we have available to pledge?
Mr. Reese: That we would have available to have pledged,
yes, sir.
Mayor Ferre: Certainly enough to pay for this.
Mr. Reese: Yes, sir, but the big thing is,it is going
to be very time consuming to negotiate this andthen this is
going out on public referendum for the public to decide to
accept this proposal on the franchise. Thee is a provision
in our charter that an extension of the franchise has to be
voted on, on public referendum.
Mayor Ferre: When are we going to have the public
referendum?
Mr. Reese:The power company has to pay for it.
Mayor Ferre: The power company has to pay for the public
referendum?
168
7/26/73
Mr. Reese: Yes, the cost of putting it on the ballot.
Mayor Ferre: In other words, if we call for a special
referendum, the power company would have to pay for it?
Could we piggy -back other things on it?
Mr. Reese: Like the gas referendum?
Mayor Ferre: I don't know, I like piggy -back referendums
you know.
Mr. Reese: No, I don't think so.
Mayor Ferre: It would have to be strictly that?
Mr. Reese: I am quite sure.
Mr..Plummer: What is the next step Mr. Reese?
Mr. Reese: On the Orange Bowl? The next step is a
resolution I have here,
Mayor Ferre: Before you pass that resolution, I can
make my statement before I even see it. I think it is extremely
important at this stage of the game that we take into consider-
ation the users of the Orange Bowl, namely the Dolphins, the
University of Miami and the 0. Bowl Committee, the main users
becai:se there are others, and I think in the interest of peace
and prosperity, which is our theme, that we give them an
opportunity to in -put into the system, not to mention names,
whatever recommendations and thoughts they may have, and there-
fore I would like to do it this way, without even seeing that
resolution. I would like to give the main users until September
13th to come up with specific recommendations. On September
13th then I would hope that we will charge the administration
to proceed to have hearings with the main users, to have
their recommendations submitted and if everybody comes to an
agreement to start, or prepare to get bid documents under way
for the earliest possible of awarding of bids whenever we are
ready, whenever we work out the financing, and the other details
to go to bids. What I don't want to do,and what I don't want to
see , is one member of this commission, is for us to go to bid
documents without giving the main users the courtesy and con-
sideration of coming in with their advice and recommendation.
Mr. Reese: This resolution Mr. Mayor, is for the authorizing
the t,ity administration to prepare classifications to
be sent out to engineering and architectural firms so that
the first step is select your engineering and architectural
firm and then have your users in-put)put in at that point.
Mayor Ferre: Mel, I tell you, I really think if you do
this you are going to have, ----then we have a problem we
don't need.We don't need anymore emotionalism in this. Let's
place those cards down on the table, ---you know what we are
dealing with, --we are dealing with a lot of emotionalism,
and I don't want to add any fuel to that emotionalism. I
want to get down to the practical aspects of this and let
Miami know, and let everybody in this community know that
this City of Miami Commission is going to move ahead on this
Orange Bowl. Now, we want in -put, we want everybody to parti-
cipate, we want to give everybody a free and clear chance and
I want this record to very clearly identify that so we don't
have any problems. We invite the Miami Dolphins, specifically
169
7/26/73
•
Mr. Joe Robbie, we invite the University of Miami, specifically
Mr. Gene Cohen, we invite the Orange Bowl Committee in -specifically
Dr. Field, Dr. William Field to come down to the City Manager's
office to discuss these things with him,to come up with a recom-
mendation, they are in your hand, in the administration, and
hopefully we can come to some kind of agreement before we get
involved in election process of architects and engineers, because
I don't want to have a big blow-up in the beginning,and we are
going to•have one in the end, and this Commission is going to
decide what it is going to do at that point. But I don't want
that decision, I don't want to have the war ended before the
battle begins, so let's have the battle first, and then we
will see what the war is going to be like, if I make myself
clear.
Mr. Plummer: What you are inferring Mr. Mayor is that
we defer all action until the l3th.
Mayor Ferre: No, I am not doing that. Here's my motion, ----
I move that a resolution authorizing and directing the City
Manager to sit with the three principal users of the Orange
Bowl, namely the Miami Dolphins, the University of Miami
and the Orange Bowl Committee, to discuss with them their
recommendation as to the improvements of the new Miami Orange
Bowl, if they come to an agreement, the Manager, City Manager,
is authorized and directed to receive proposals from architects
and engineers, or professional consulting service, to remodel
and improve the Orange Bowl Stadium, by furnishing planning
and design services, (reparation of construction drawings
and specifications and for the complete supervision of con-
struction, should there be anv disagreement, that this matter
be brought to the City of Miami. Commission on September 13
for final resolution. That's my motion.
Mr. Plummer: Mr. Mayor, let me tell you something. You
have got to be practical. I sat on that committee downtown
with Walter Etling, Mr. Mayor I am going to tell you the
practicality of the thing. These people came before, ---they
were invited, including the Toros. They all came before that
committee, and they made all kinds of words, but none of them
would sit down and negotiate anything.
Mayor Ferre: May I interrupt you sir,
Mr. Plummer:. Sure, --
Mayor Ferre: J.L., I want to tell you something. I want
to give these three groups every consideration and opportunity
for them to come here with possitive in -put, ----if they don't
do that, and they bicker, and they argue and complain, they knock;
then we are going to move on alone.
Mr. Plummer: Right off the bat, let me throw you out the
first question that was brought np. Okay, then you will see
what I am talking about. The representative of the Dolphins
and the owner did not come, ----he sent his representative.
He wanted to know how many years and at what price would they
negotiate. Now, you are not going to give that prerogative to
the City Manager, because the City Manager is going to say he
is going to have to bring it before this Commission, and they
are going to say, ---I'm telling this has already happened.
They are going to say, we are not going to do anything or
make any commitments until we know how many years at how many
abllars,---
Mayor Ferre: You didn't read me, ----let me tell you something.
7/26/73
170
There is a very, very specific reason as to why a ---some
people in this community want the Orange Bowl transferred
to the County. Okay? Do you read me on that?
Mr. Plummer:I read you.
Mayor Ferre: I don't want anybody to ever say that
this City of Miami Commission was unilateral, unfair, or
arbitrary, in its moving forward with the Orange Bowl.
Now, it may come, and I have a strong feeling unfortunately
that it will come to this Commission making some very basic
decisions as to how we proceed, but I don't want anybody
ever saying we didn't open the door, the door is open.
We welcome discussions, we welcome recommendations, we
want them, possitive in -put, not negative destructive,
criticism and once that is done, one way or the other,
whether it happens or doesn't then I think this Commission
can move forward.
Mr. Plummer: Fine, I'll second your motion and hope
for the shot in the dark.
Rev. Gibson: All right, further discussion?
Thereupon the following resolution was introduced by
Mayor Ferre, who moved its adoF:.ion:
RFSOLUTION NO. 73-632
A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING AND DIRECTING THE CITY
MANAGER TO CONSULT WITH THE THREE PRINCIPAL USERS
OF THE MIAMI ORANGE BOWL STADIUM; NAMELY THE
MIAMI DOLPHINS, THE UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI AND THE
ORANGE BOWL COMMITTEE, TO DISCUSS THEIR RECOMMENDA-
TIONS AS TO THE CITY MANAGER'S PROPOSED IMPROVEMENTS
TO THE ORANGE BOWL AND IF AN AGREEMENT CAN BE REACHED
THE CITY MANAGER BE AND HE IS AUTHORIZED AND DIRECTED
TO RECEIVE PROPOSALS FROM ARCHITECTS AND ENGINEERS
FOR PROFESSIONAL CONSULTING SERVICES TO REMODEL SAID
STADIUM BY FURNISHING PLANNIN AND DESIGN SERVICES,
PREPARATION OF CONSTRUCTION DRAWINGS AND SPECIFICATIONS
AND FOR THE COMPLETE SUPERVISION OF CONSTRUCTION; PRO-
VIDED HOWEVER, THAT IF THERE BE ANY DISAGREEMENT, THIS
MATTER BE BROUGHT TO THE CITY COMMISSION ON SEP'LI:MBER 13,
1973 FOR FINAL RESOLUTION
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here and on
file in the City Clerk's office.)
Upon being seconded by Mr. Plummer, the resolution
passed and adopted by the following vote - AYES: Messrs.
Plummer, Reboso, Mrs. Gordon, Reverend Gibson and Mayor Ferre.
Noes: NOne.
WAS
Mayor Ferre: I would like Mr. Reese, for the Manager's
office, yourself or whoever you designate, to inform these three
users tomorrow, personally by phone, or by registered mail as
you choose, what the action of this committee was,so it is
a matter of record, so they get a personal notification rather
than just reading it in the newspaper, they know that we are
inviting them to come here and talk.
Rev. Gibson: Mr. Mayor,
letter, or a telephone cal))
letter, so then nobody would
instead of by phone, by registered
followed by or with a registered
say then, I didn't understand you
171
7/26/73
on the telephoror I didn't get the canal
Mayor Ferro: I agree. That finishes t t one, right?
86, TRANSFER FROM CONTINGENCY FUND TO PROPER ACCOUNT $806.40
INVESTIGATIQN OF iL FIREFIGHTERS PRESENTLY ON DISABILITY PAYROLL
The following resolution was introduced by Mr. Plummer who
moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 73-633
A RESOLUTION TRANSFERRING FROM THE CONTINGENCY FUND
TO THE PROPER ACCOUNT, FUNDS IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO
EXCEED $806.40 FOR THE PURPOSE OF ENGAGING THE
SERVICES OF RETAIL CREDIT COMPANY TO CONDUCT AN
INVESTIGATION OF 72 FIREFIGHTERS PRESENTLY ON THE
DISABILITY RETIREMENT PAYROLL
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here and on file
in the City Clerks Office)
Upon being seconded by Mr. Reboso, the resolution was passed
and adopted by the following vote - AYES: Messrs. Reboso, Plummer,
Mrs. Gordon, Reverend Gibson and Mayor Ferre. NOES: None
87, RECEIVE INFORMAL BIDS- OPERATION OF SUMMER YOUTH TRANSPORTATION
PROGRAM
The following resolution was introduced by Mrs. Gordon who
moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 73-634
A RESOLUTION RATIFYING AND CONFIRMING THE ACTION
OF THE CITY MANAGER IN RECEIVING INFORMAL BIDS
FOR THE OPERATION OF A SUMMER YOUTH TRANSPORTATION
PROGRAM IN CONNECTION WITH THE RECREATION SUPPORT
PROGRAM, AND FURTHER AUTHORIZING AND DIRECTING THE
AWARD OF THE BID TO THE LOWEST BIDDER, A-1 BUS
COMPANY, AT A COST NOT TO EXCEED $12,000
(here follows body of resolution, omitted here and on
file in the City Clerk's Office)
Upon being seconded by Mr. Plummer, the resolution was passed
and adopted by the following vote - AYES: Messrs. Plummer, Reboso,
Mrs. Gordon, Reverend Gibson and Mayor Ferre. NOES: None
172 JUL 2 6197
•
88, MAKE APPLICATION TO NATIONALLEAGUEOF CITIES-U.S CONFERENCE
OF MAYOR S - SUMMER YOUTH TRANSPORTATION PROGRAM
The following resolution was introduced by Mrs. Gordon who
moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 73-635
A RESOLUTION RATIFYING AND CONFIRMING THE ACTION
OF THE CITY MANAGER IN MAKING APPLICATION TO THE
NATIONAL LEAGUE OF CITIES - U. S. CONFERENCE OF
MAYORS, INC., FOR A $12,000 SUB -CONTRACT FOR
SUMMER YOUTH TRANSPORTATION IN CONNECTION WITH
THE RECREATION SUPPORT PROGRAM, AND AUTHORIZING
AND DIRECTING THE CITY MANAGER TO ACCEPT SAID
SUB -CONTRACT IN THE AMOUNT OF $12,000
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here and on
file in the City Clerks Office)
Upon being seconded by Reverend Gibson, the resolution was
passed and adopted by the following vote - AYES: Messrs. Reboso,
Plumme-, Mrs. Gordon, Reverend Gibson and Mayor Ferre. NOES: None
89, MAKE APPLICATION TO REGIONAL OFFICE OF ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITY
RECREATION SUPPORT PROGRAM
The following resolution was introduced by Mrs. Gordon who
moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 73-636
A RESOLUTION RATIFYING AND CONFIRMING THE ACTION
OF THE CITY MANAGER IN MAKING APPLICATION TO THE
REGIONAL OFFICE OF ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITY AND ACC-
EPTING THE GRANT OF $149,931 TO SPONSOR THE 1973
RECREATION SUPPORT PROGRAM AND FOR ENTERING INTO
A COST -REIMBURSEMENT CONTRACT FOR CONDUCT AND
ADMINISTRATION OF A RECREATION SUPPORT PROJECT
ATTACHED HERETO AND MADE A PART HEREOF, AND FUR-
THER RATIFYING AND CONFIRMING THE ACTION OF THE
CITY MANAGER IN ENTERING INTO A COST -REIMBURSEMENT
SUB -CONTRACT WITH METROPOLITAN DADE COUNTY FOR
CONDUCT AND ADMINISTRATION OF A RECREATION SUPPORT
PROJECT ATTACHED HERETO AND MADE A PART HEREOF
(here follows body of resolution, omitted here and on
file in the City Clerks Office)
Upon,being seconded by Reverend Gibson, the resolution was
passed and adopted by the following vote - AYES: Messrs. Reboso,
Plummer, Mrs. Gordon, Reverend Gibson and Mayor Ferre. NOES: None
173 JUL 261973
41111 !I!
90, PURCHASE BY iEGOTIATION- PARCEL NO.-LATIN RIVERFRONT PARK
The following resolution was introduced by Mrs. Gordon who
moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 73-637
A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO PUR-
CHASE BY NEGOTIATION IN LIEU OF CONDEMNATION
PARCEL NO. 7091.4 OF THE CITY OF MIAMI LATIN COMM-
UNITY RIVERFRONT PARK, AS DESCRIBED HEREIN, FOR
THE SUM OF $50,375; AND ALLOCATING $55,000 FROM
THE 1972 PARKS AND RECREATIONAL FACILITIES BOND
FUND TO COVER THE COST AND OTHER MISCELLANEOUS
EXPENSES PERTINENT TO THE ACQUISITION OF FEE
SIMPLE TITLE TO THIS PROPERTY
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here and on
file in the City Clerks Office)
Upon being seconded by Mr. Reboso, the resolution was passed
and adopted by the following vote - AYES: Messrs. Plummer, Reboso,
Mrs. Gordon, Reverend Gibson and Mayor Ferre. NOES: None.
91, APPOINTMENT TO YOUTH ADVISORY BOARD
The following resolution was introduced by Reverend Gibson
who moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 73-638
A RESOLUTION APPOINTING CHARLES NICHOLAS TO THE
YOUTH ADVISORY BOARD
(Isere follows body of resolution, omitted here and on
file in the City Clerks Office)
Upon being seconded by Mrs. Gordon, the resolution was passed
and adopted by the following vote - AYES: Messrs. Plummer, Reboso,
Mrs. Gordon, Reverend Gibson and Mayor Ferre. NOES: None
174
•
•
92, MERGE YOUTH ADVISORY BOARD WITH YOUTH RELATIONS BOARD AND RENAME
YOUTH ADVISORY BOARD
The following resolution was introduced by Mayor Ferre who
moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 73-639
A RESOLUTION TO MERGE THE EXISTING YOUTH ADVISORY
BOARD WITH THE YOUTH RELATIONS BOARD AND RENAMING
THE NEW BOARD, THE YOUTH ADVISORY BOARD AND EXPAN-
DING THE MEMBERSHIP OF SAID BOARD TO AT LEAST 15
AND POTENTIALLY 50 MEMBERS
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here and on file
in the City Clerks Office)
Upon being seconded by Mr. Plummer, the resolution was passed
and adopted by the following vote - AYES: Messrs. Plummer, Reboso,
Mrs. Gordon, Reverend Gibson and Mayor Ferre. NOES: None.
93, CITY MANAGER's REPORT ON MEETING WITH PANCOAST ASSOCIATES
Mr. Reese: In keeping with the City Commission's wishes, I have met
with Mr. Pancoast and his associates on two different occasions .
Mayor Ferre: Mr. Pancoast would you please come forward.
Mr. Reese: On each and every occasion, I endeavored to point out to
him that we are very interested in getting a facility built downtown
that is going to be representative of what this community has in
mind as far as a functional building is concerned.
I --felt that it would be to the advantage of the City if he would
consider exploring and expanding his group to encompass and take in
another group of architects and engineers that would be representative
of having in-house capabilities that would not be assembled group as
Mr. Pancoast.
After the second meeting, Mr. Pancoast said that he and his associates
would then go back and re-evaluate it and explore to see if the party
that was suggested or the name that was picked out, would be acceptable.
The letter that he has written.
Mayor Ferre: Mr. Reese, for the record, I have submitted the letter
so it is a matter of these proceedings and a part of these proceedings.
Mr. Reese: The letter is written very carefully. It states something
but doesn't say anything, so I think since Mr. Pancoast is here now,
he has the privelege of saying what he undoubtedly intended the letter
to say.
Mr. Lester Pancoast: I am here representing a joint -venture, some
of the partners of which have moved out of the warm corner of the
room, there is also one employee among us.
I think the letter says fully what we intended to say and that is that
we believe again in the complete capability of the joint -venture, we
are willing to negotiate and willing to work with any additional
professionals whatever who are demonstratively lacking in our team.
1'75 JUL 261973
Among ourselves, we cannot decide who those people might be and so
we are looking for guidance from you. If you have none to give us,
we are anxious to get into negotiations and await the pleasure of
either Mr. Reese or Mr. Andrews.
Mayor Ferre: Mr. Pancoast, let me thank you and your associates for
your patience. I think you have been incredibly patient. I think
you have been here since the morning.
Mr. Pancoast: There have been dramatic highlights which made it
fully worthwhile.
Mayor Ferre: Let me tell you Mr. Pancoast and the City Manager can
speak well for himself.
As I understand what he has been trying to do and I don't think you
are going to find that this City Commission is going to recommend any
firm. That is not going to happen. I am pretty sure of that, at
least, it won't come from me.
T think the point is this, and let me put it to you in the vernacular
of things that I know.
When I go to Venezuela or Puerto Rico, Puerto Rico Glass to put up
a furnace to manufacture glass. There are people in Venezuela who
can do that. I happen to think we are a little bit wiser in going to
Wheaton or to some of the people who specialize in Glass Furnaces
throughout the world and it simplifies things. Now what we have done
recently is after a couple of trials of re -building furnaces and
everytime you re -build a furnace, it cost 2 to 300,000 dollars, we
have now associated some local people and I think one of these days
now, they will know enough where we can depend on them in that particular
subject.
Now, when it comes to building an office -building which we did for that
factory, we used good local architects because they are perfectly
qualified. In the cement business for example, we have talked to a lot
of engineering firms in Florida. Some.f them in Miami, there is a lot
of good industrial firms in Lakeland and in Tampa who know a lot about
phosphate mining and all this kind of stuff. 1'11 tell you when you
are going to go for a couple of million dollars on a kiln in a cement
plant and there is an awful lot of little details about whether the
angle on that, and its experience, its the II% of the incline. They
have been through it before, that in Dundee,Michigan it worked and in
Detroit it didn't work and they know why it didn't work in Detroit
because the weight conditions etc., and I don't 'mean to belabor the
point but what 1 am trying to say is that this is perhaps the single
mot important project that the City of Miami has had and it is a great
honor and you will forgive me for saying so, but you got the unanimous
permission from this City of Miami Commission to do this job.
I think what the City Manager is saying is that look, Mr. Pancoast and
Associates are our friends and we don't want you to make any mistakes
because we don't want to make any mistakes and we want this not to be
a good job but its got to be the best job and therefore even t!'ough
we think you are proficient, excellent architects of great repute and
great ahility and I know that for a fact personally, I know that, but
we 1.,an• to make sure that in a 25 or 20 or 15 million building of
rather complicated proceedings, that you have with you, someone who
has trodden that path before. Someone who has the expertise to know
that this room goes next to the other one because the wire should go
and 1 don't know anything about Police Department's but 1 know that
it's not the run of the mill building and I know that you can go up to
cities in California, Oakland and in Canada and study what somebody
else has done and I am sure you will and arc already doing that and
if you have to go to Paris to find out what they did in Parjs,you
are going to do that but its not the same thing studying what somebody
else did as having had the experience of doing 1, 2, 5 or 6 or
whatever it is of these specific projects and in closing, I think that
there are architects and I am not going to presume to tell you who
they are. You choose your own but you go find someone who has personal
expertise on this matter of Police Stations and 1 think that is what
Mr. Reese is-
17E1 JUL 261973
•
Mr. Reese: Well I think that Mr. Pancoast and his associates are
well qualified if they only had demonstrated or had the experience
of doing something representative of the Police Station collectively
altogether as a unit, this is really the thrust that I was trying to
bring out that this is what I thought we were really looking for -and
that is why I thought maybe they could associate with some other firm
that has had this type of experience, then we would end up with having
somebody else that has already made the mistakes and then we wouldn't
at least get the same mistakes. Everybody is going to make mistakes.
Rev. Gibson: Let me ask a question. Mr. Reese, I am in an awful
position but when I offered the motion that this firm be selected,
I was told at that time, they were competent, capable of performing.
If they were then, they ought to he now and if they aren't now, I want
to know why didn't they tell us. I would hop( Mr. Pancoast if you don't
have the wherewithall, I mean the talent, that you will take to heart
the suggestion. I am not arguing for or against but since I was the
mover of the motion, I just want everybody to understand where I stand.
Mayor Ferro: Father Gibson, let me put my 4 worth in again.
The problem as I see it is not a question of whether thay have talent
or don't have talent. These are very talented people. They are
great architects. There is —no question about it. They have got the
background and the specific projects to prove it.
The problem is that we have in this case like getting together a brain
surgeon and an open-heart surgeon and a general practicioner and that's
all great but, this happens to be an operation in the hip.
Now, we have a lot of great general practicioners in open heart surgery
but that doesn't make them orthopedic surgeons,,see,and that's the
problem. The problem is that we have a very specific task here and
they can do it , I am sure, that a good brain surgeon could prbbably
operate on a hip but I'll tell you, there are about 3 or 4 people
in this country that specialize on hip surgery and if I am going to
hr..ve my hip operated on, 1 want my local doctor involved in it but I
sure want that fellow who is a master surgeon and does nothing but
orthopedic surgery.
Rev. Gibson: I have an internal medPcne man, a general practicioner
and I think he is good and I had a hernia repaired about 2 years ago.
He is not a surgeon but I didn't move until I even gave him the
privelege oi'selecting that surgeon and whether the surgeon was good,
had, or indifferent, 1 had some confidence in that internal medicine
man and he said Father, this is my consultant. I.would want you to
nave that privelege. I hope a man as smart as you, would take to
heart seriously what we are saying, and if you do need that consultant
that you won't hesitate.
Mrs. Gordon: May I just give my opinion and its one of great confidence
in the people we are talking to. I think that we are belaboring it.
I know for certain and positive that if any additional help is needed,
he will get it, we don't have to tell him.
I honestly feel that we are belaboring the point.
Mayor Ferro: I don't agree. I think its very important.
Rose let me tell you something because I am very close to architects
and I have a great amount of sympathy. You know, professional pride
is something, lets be very very honest Lester. Nobody, especially
people who are artists. An architect basically is a scientist but
he is a half-breed between a scientist but you have the heart of an
artist.
Mr. Pancoast: There is a balance between the two.
Mayor Ferro: The artist part of an architect and I think with
complete justification, has a tremendous amount of pride.
I think its good and I think its healthy but its very difficult, very
difficult to be objective for anybody.
I would rather look on it as a challenge and that's exactly the way
you.look at it.
I know that in your mind you are absolutely convinced that nobody
is, can do as good a job because you are going to put your heart and
soul in this job.
177
•
This is going to be the biggest, best job you have had to date and
you are going to be sure that you perform, now that's the artist.
Mr. Pancoast: All of that is true Mr. Mayor.
Mayor Ferre: If this were my money and I was putting up a cement
plant or a kiln or a furnace in a glass factory, I would want to have
that specialist along because I'll tell you when that molten glass
comes down that pipe and that thing is off4" and that molten glass
goes right through it, you got problems, and I don't want to find out
5 years from now that we made a mistake of the heart.
Mr. Pancoast: We are very anxious to meet the consultants who you
have already hired and who have provided the city with a program
for the facility.
Mayor Ferre: Did we hire someone?
Mr. Reese: No, no. Stanford Research people. We have not hired
anybody to be a -
Mayor Ferre: Could they help in this?
Mr. Reese: No no, they are the ones that are doing the entire survey
and the development of the program at the Police Department from
now to the year 2000 and they are the ones that also are coming up
with a program which is what functions go within the building.
Mr. Pancoast. Its terribly important Mr. Mayor and on which we would
operate fundamentally. Now if we need exotic consultants in addition
to that for special communications for example, we would be the first
to reach out for those.
Mr. Plummer: I have a lot of confidence in Lester Pancoast or I
wouldn't have voted for him in the first place.
Can we do this Lester or entertain this thought?
That we defer this item of any further discussion or decision?
Mr. Pancoast: Mr. Mayor, we didn't even begin negotiations.
Mr. Plummer: That any negotiations be put off until after the meeting
of September lath at which time, Mr. Pancoast will go over the list
of firms recommended ar' if you feel that any of those can be of any
benefit to you, you come back to this Commission and say so.
if you don't feel that you need the help, then we know where we stand.
Mayor Ferre: With an open mind, Lester.
Mr. Plummer: I have enough confidence in Lester Iancoast that he is
going to admit if he needs help and some of these firms could be of
help to him -
Mrs. Gordon: J. L., do you think he wouldn't use help if he needs help?
And to hold up working on negotiations for the contract?
Oh come on -
Mayor Ferre: Obviously he doesn't if he is talking about it. Obviously
Mel Reese doesn't if he has brought it up.
Mrs. Gordon: I know but I said he would if he needed it and if he
doesn't need it, he is not asking for it.
Mayor Ferre: Well Mrs. Gordon, do you think Mr. Reese would have
brought this matter up if he didn't have some concern?
I think Mr. Reese, you have to speak up at this point and say what
is on your mind.
178
JUL 2 61973
Mr. Reese: Well I have endeavored to say whats on my mind, that
Lester Pancoast and Associates individually or in groups of two or
three, they have performed on a number of different jobs but
-collectively as Lester Pancoast and Associates, they have not worked
together on one total job of the sgme size and magnitude that we are
anticipating here and all I was trying to do is to endeavor to get
them to consider of associating with someone that would be representative
of having the expertise within their organization to perform a job of
this magnitude or bigger. Now, the outfit that I made a suggestion of,
I would like to withdraw that and like to pick up Commissioner Plummer's
suggestion that we make the list available to Lester Pancoast.
Let him go over this list and see if there isn't somebody on that list
that can't make a contribution and then have Lester Pancoast and
Associates sit down and discuss the possibility of getting together
with that group and then proceed to negotiate the contract. That's all.
I would strongly recommend that we ignore any suggestions I made.
Mr. Pancoast: Mr. Mayor, I would rather not be confined to the list.
Mayor Ferre: I agree with that.
Mr. Reese: The only thing is Lester, this list is the people that were
contacted state-wide that made the submission and there is some of them
that are very representative and some that are not representative.
Mayor Ferre: I understand, but I'ii tell you Mr. Reese.
We have already chosen our architect and its Pancoast and Associates
Architects. We have already chosen him. He is the general practicioner
who may be doing some of the surgery himself. We don't know yet but
we are asking him to go and get a master surgeon who specializes in
this particular field. You find him. You come back with him.
Mv. Plummer: I disagree with your statements to this extent.
We have not chosen our architect. It is subject to negotiation.
Mayor Ferre: He is saying we haven't finalized yet. We have chosen
you subject to negotiation. That is technically right. Now you
find the master surgeon you want to work with.
Rev. Gibson: Wait a minute, Let me understand what you all are saying
here now, maybe I am dense. I thought when I offered the motion that
we were giving that man the contract. Wait a minute -
Mayor Ferre: That's being changed right now Father Gibson.
Rev. Gibson: No, no, no Mr. Mayor. I am the maker of the motion, let
me speak to it. I must defend my motion.
1 am the maker of the motion and my understanding was that we were
voting. You gave us a list of names and you said, this is a list of
names. These people are qualified, pick anybody here because anybody
here is qualified.
Mr. Reese: No, the case was that I passed out this list to you and
you opened the book and if I can quote you correct, you said
Mr. Pancoast name is on here and you made the motion for Mr. Pancoast.
The administration made no comment and we gave you the list of names
of everybody who made a submission.
We had previously supplied you with the list of all of the names we
had sent out invitations to. Now a lot of the people didn't make a
submission but the book that we gave you, in that book was a digest
of the material that was submitted with each one of the submissions
by the different architectural and engineering firms .
There was no discussion beyond that point.
Mr. Pancoast was here in the audience. Am I right on that Lester?
Mr. Pancoast: No Sir, but people close to me were. I thought of it
as not just a list of names. I think of it as a list of very
carefully balanced teams. These people came in as collections.
179
JUL 261973
Mayor Ferre: We are not talking about your firm.
HOW many were there, 21?
Rev. Gibson: 21.
Mayor Ferre: These are people who made submissions. Now I am going
to tell you Lester that there were some people on there that I would
under no circumstances have voted for and you know, they were there
on that list because they sent an offering but that doesn't mean that
they were qualified in my book.
They are not in the same category as you. I don't want to belabor it.
Mr. Reese: That is why I tried to state to the Commission right now
that there were some people on that list that there was no doubt about
their qualifications. They were some representatives made to us on
that list that didn't meet the qualifications.
Mr. Iancoast: My only point Sir, is that I didn't want to pick another -
name on that list because what I would in effect be doing is. picking
another whole team.
Mayor Ferro: Lets cut through all of this now because I think we are
down to a point where we can vote yea or nay as we want.
Here is the way I understand this thing is heading.
You arc going to come back with someone of your choice not limited to
this list that is a specialist and you have to prove that he is a
specialist and come up with his qualifications in this particular
field that you are going to bring to the administration when you
negotiate and finalize your contract and you have the expertise behind
you to specialize in this particular field. Okay, is that the motion?
Mr. Reese: Then we can proceed as soon as -
Mr. Plummer: I would like to fror the clarification of Father Gibson.
It was my understanding at the last meeting that we chose Pancoast
and Associates and that no other firm could even be negotiated with
.until some decision with Pancoast was made.
Now Father Gibson, I 'will recall one thing to your memory that I was
very very uptight about, that this Commission. That we go into
negotiations without knowing how much we are going to pay a firm.
Now I understand that there is this professional ethics that you can't
discuss and you can't submit a price. I don't know that I wholeheartedly
agree with that but, 1 still will contend that we do not set forth
any price. We merely gave the right to the Manager saying, negotiate
with Panco: t, no one else and come hack to this Commission.
Mayor Ferre: Lester, do you disagree with this because Father Gibson
is upset about this.
Rev. Gibson: I sure am. I am not going to lie to you tonight.
Mayor Ferre: Do you disagree with this concept?
Mr. Pai co st: I'm not sure I understand the point.
Mayor Ferre: Well the point is that we are asking you to come back
with someone of your choice that you are going to find, search and
come back with that has specific expertise in this field.
Mr. Pancoast: Yes, I think that's possible for me to do. I think
there are people who have sufficient experience who I could take on
as a consultant and this to me is far more practical than going
with another group of architects who would duplicate our abilities.
This I think would he very unwise for us to do.
Mr. Reese: Lester, don't pick the man that did the New York job
that was 4 million dollars over and then it wasn't finished.
Mrs. Gordon: Lester, if we didn't direct you in this manner,
wouldn't you h. doing that anyway?
Mr. Pancoast: Yes, I would be very anxious to find out how substantial
the program was before I decided what kind of consultants I needed.
Mrs. Gordon: Of course you would.
180 JUL 261973
Mr. Pancoast: But I don't know yet what that program is. I haven't
seen it and I haven't talked with the consultant you already have
working on it.
Mrs. Gordon: This whole thing to me is a very belittling situation
and I personally am very embarassed.
Mr. Pancoast: I understand the motivations behind it. ,.I am not
embarassed.
Mr. Reese: Well it is not belittling or not befaulting the Pancoast
and Associates one bit.
It is misunderstood completely if its so assumed.
Rev. Gibson: Mr. Mayor, .I hope I understand what I am voting on.
If you don't think that you need a consultant or you don't need
anybody to help you, my understanding is, we are not mandating him
to get somebody. Is that right? I want an answer. Get me a ruling.
Mr. Pancoast: Mr. Mayor, I'll want him as badly as you do if I find out -
Mayor Ferre: We are just respectfully recommending. We will change
the wording in this so its very clear that for the best interests
of all involved that you seek someone to your liking that you can
come to an agreement with between you and him, that's your problem.
Okay? What kind of agreement you have is your problem but before you
finalize here, we are recommending to you to find someone like that
and that will he part of the final negotiations.
Mr. Plummer: Before I sat on this Commission, this Commission chose
an architect to build Miamarina. Unfortunately there was no marine
experience in that architectural firm. Now if I am not mistaken,
after that job was completed, this Commission had to go back and made
some 70 or 80,000 dollars worth of changes that should have never
happened. The tidal wave situation is still bad down there.
Mr. Reese: No. Mr. Commissioner, please now. Let's not get that back
in the record because its been proven that the stadium is filled and
tt'e tidal is not affecting the water -
Mayor Ferre: Okay Mr. Reese. When I go in a boat in there, I sure
move around a lot.
Mr. Reese : I'm sorry Mr. Mayor, but we have a waiting list to get
into that Marina right now and that place has had a bad reputation
and it was brought about from this platform up here.
Mayor Ferre: It's full now, isn't it?
Mr. Reese: Yes Sir.
Mayor Ferre: I'm glad you mentioned that because I had forgotten
about that but Lester that is a case in point.
Now there is a case of a brilliant architect who is a very capable
architect who because of professional pride and because of matters
of the heart refused to accept the fact that he didn't know everything
about and to this day, 3 months ago, he argued with me for an hour
telli�.g me how everybody was wrong and how that was a perfect thing
and there were no problems with it and the pier was the right size
and the little skinny things they have there are all right because
he saved 100,000 dollars and all those other things.
Now, that man should have at the right time, gotten someone who is
a specialist in Marinas and if he had done that, he would have saved
us all kinds of aggravation as Mr. Reese said, we aren't through yet.
181 JUL 2 61973
•
Mr. Plummer: Let the record reflect, reading from the minutes of
May 24, 1973, let Resolution No. 73-391: A motion offered by
Commissioner Gibson reads as follows: A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING AND
DIRECTING THE CITY MANAGER TO NEGOTIATE WITH PANCOAST ARCHITECTS
FOR DESIGN OF PROPOSED MIAMI MODERN POLICE FACILITY AND SUBMIT HIS
RECOMMENDATION.
Now there is a difference because Father Gibson was under the impression
that we gave it to Lester.
Mayor Ferre: No -
Mr. Plummer: Am I wrong Father?
Okay, so I want it for the record that I am reading from the minutes
that was to negotiate.
Mayor Ferre: We are nowhere near awarding this contract.
Mr. Pancoast: It is very unusual that a negotiation process like this
would break down. It almost never happens. These fees are in a
fairly understood range and its just a matter cf-
Mayor Ferre: I don't think that they will break down and this is the
procedure that we have always followed as long as I can remember and
T am sure you have been through this before Lester.
Okay where are we. You have the gavel and I made a motion. Was there
a second to the motion?
Mr. Plummer: Second the motion.
Mrs. Gordon: Nothing is going to delay going into contract. He is
just going to furnish you the name of a consultant.
Mr. Reese: We are going into negotiations and at the conclusion of
that, your next Commission Meeting, we should have a contract for
you to act on. Then Mr. Pancoast can sharpen his pencils.
Mayor Ferre: We are just stating as a matter of policy what we want
done, that's all.
The following resolution was introduced by Mayor Ferre who
moved his adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 73-640
A RESOLUTION DEFERRING FOR ANY FURTHER NEGOTIATIONS
WITH PANCOAST ANI) ASSOCIATES, ARCHITECTS, TO PERFORM
ARCHITECTIJRAL SERVICE FOR PROPOSED CITY OF MIAMI
POLICE HEADQUARTERS UNTIL THE CITY COMMISSION MEETING
ON SEPTEMBER 13 IN ORDER TO AFFORD AN OPPORTUNITY FOR
PANCOAST AND ASSOCIATES TO DETERMINE WHETHER OR NOT
IT FEELS A CONSULTANT OR CONSULTANTS MIGHT BE HELPFUL
AND IF SO, TO NEGOTIATE WITI1 THE CITY MANAGER, A
CONTRACT BETWEEN PANCOAST AND ASSOCIATES AND ANY
CONSULTANT OF HIS CHOOSING
(Here follows body of resolution, omitted here and on
file in the City C1e:1(s Office)
Upon being seconded by Mr. Plummer, the resolution was passed
and adopted by the following vote - AYES: Messrs. Plummer, Reboso,
Mrs. Gordon, Reverend Gibson and Mayor Ferre. NOES:, None
182 J0L 2 6 i973
94, PROPOSED CHARTERAMENDMENT - CITY MANAGER - DISCUSSION ONLY
THE COMMISSION DID NOT ADOPT THI$ ORDINANCE
Mayor Ferre: In digest form, this says Section 1SA of the Charter
of Miami is proposed to be amended and to read as follows:
REMOVAL OF CITY MANAGER - Section (a). The Commission having
appointed the City Manager by a majority vote of its members,
may remove him by a majority vote of its members providing
that at least 30 days before such removal will become effective
the Commission shall by a majority vote of its members, adopt
a preliminary resolution stating the reasons for his removal.
The City Manager may reply in writing and may request a public
hearing which shall be held no earlier than 20 days or later
than 30 days after filing of such request.
After•such public hearing, if one be requested, and after full
consideration of the Commission, by a majority vote of its
members, may adopt a final resolution of removal.
Mr. Plummer: Mr. Mayor, since you made your comments, may we ask
what you are opposed to?
Mr. Rothstein: May I just point out what has been changed here?
You see a mark on the double spaced paper. That mark from there on
to the end is exactly as it sets forth in the present charter provisions.
the only thing left out is the word "Indefinite Term", because that
is where the conflict is. "The Commission shall appoint by a majority
vote of its members, the City Manager for an indefinite term" That's
the way the Charter reads no,:.
What I am saying is, the only change is the word in the removal portion
of "Indefinite Term" has been stricken. There are 2 portions of the
Charter. One much earlier which says, "The City Commission shall elect
the City Attorney, the City Manager and the City Clerk etc etc.
In Section 15 at the tep, it talks about; "Within 30 days after the
Commission takes office, they shall appoint the City Manager" so there
are 2 places which provide that after the City Commission's Elections
every 2 years, they shall appoint a City Manager. That's no problem.
Then they have another provision down below which talks about how a
Manager may be removed only by notice, by hearing etc. etc.
The only thing is, when they drafted it, they put in the words -
"Indefinite Term".
Mayor Ferre: Where is the other provision that is in conflict?
Mr. Rothstein: Right at the top. Right at the top of that paragraph.
Within 30 days -
Mayor Ferre: Let me reverse this on you. If we wanted to change it
in Vie opposite direction, then we would add the word "For an Indefinite
Term" up at the top wouldn't we?
Mr. Rothstein: Then you would have to determine at what time and with
what Commission and with whac circumstances they would appoint him
for an indefinite term.
In other words, if a City Manager leaves two months before a City
Election, do you want him with a lame duck Commission as your position
was this morning? To be appointed for an indefinite term and in order
for the new Commission to proceed to pick a new Manager, remove him
under this process.
Mayor Ferre: There are 2 ways of correcting -
One is by removing from Section 15, sub -paragraph (a), the word
"Indefinite Term',.that's one way of doing it.
The other way of doing it is in the preamble paragraph to add, and by
definition as you pointed out, the words "Indefinite Term" and describe
if further.
Mr. Rothstein: That is correct.
183 JUL 2 61973
Mayor Ferre: Now I want to state my position without having heard
Mr. Reese and then he can state his.
As far as I am concerned, I am not about to tamper with the system
that,in my opinion has added strength to this City and to this
community and I feel very strongly about it. I feel stronger about
this than anything else that I have ever voted on in this City
Commission or in the Legislature in the years I served in it and I
tell you, well let me not go beyond that. Let me just say that I
feel very strongly about it and if we are going to change anything,
I want to change it to strengthen it even further.
I am not about to tamper with that one.
Mr. Reese: If you feel that there is a problem here and if you want
to clarify it, I would strongly recommend as somebody who is supposed
to be knowledgable in public administration and of the Manager form
of government, that you make the change, if you are going to make
any change that would eliminate the Manager being subject to an
appointment every 2 years. Have the Manager appointed for an
indefinite period of time and not re -appointed every 2 years. As long
as you have the provision in there that the Manager can be dismissed
and charges have to be shown, you are giving him a fair professional
recognition but don't put him in the same category that you put
political appointments because tue Manager is not a political appoin-
tment. The Manager has to be a professional appointment and when
you put it on a term basis, the only reason that in this Charter or
any charter you put appointments up every two years is because it is
a patronage appointment that may be made by the elected officials.
That's why they had the Judges and in the history of the City of Miami,
the Clerk position used to fall into this category and goodness knows
the City Attorney position has fallen into this category in the past
and I say., if you are going to change' it for the Manager, don't put
it in that category because the whole theory behind your government
is to have continuity in your administration and the only way you
have it is not to put him or her in the position whereby it would be
subject to appointment every two years.
Mrs. Gordon: Well dust change the first portion and make it instead
of, it says 30 days after, make the change up there.
Mayor I=crre: 1 agree with that one, if you want to do it that way.
Mrs. Gordon: Do it that way and we arc not arguing the principle.
M ayor Ferre: Well I am -
Airs. Gordon: We are only arguing that there is ambiguity in the way
its written now.
'Mr. Rothstein: I have told you that in my opinion, there is no
ambiguity. The Manager gets appointed every 2 years so that if you
want, Mr. Reese takes a different feeling and if you.leave it alone -
Mayor Terre: I would leave it alone and let the Courts decide it.
Thats' my opinion. Now, you say its clear and you are our City Attorney
and Mr. Reese disagrees with you and he isn't our City Attorney.
If at any time it happens in the future, it will be tested in Court.
Mrs. Gordon: Is it clear to you, the way its in the charter':
Mr. Reese: It was clear to me because at that particular time I
raised this identical question and the then City Attorney who is now
Judge Balaban said , leave it in here because then you are getting
a vote of confidence every two years. Now that was the whole purpose
of it. Neither one of them looked upon that at the end of 2 years
you are subject to being reappointed because you were actually
appointed for every 2 years. Now, I am not sitting here as an Attorney.
All I can tell you is what took place in the past and I have a pretty
good file on this because I wasn't very satisfied with the way the
end result came out.
184 JUL 2 61973
I have some pretty good legal opinions on it so I was -
Mr. Rothstein: Since I am not going to be here after November,
you don't have to do anything.
Mayor Ferre: Al, you are an attorney and Mr. Reese is not but let
me tell you something. You may be an attorney and Mr. Reese is not
but I doubt very much if you have better legal documentation on
this one than Mr. Reese.
Mr. Reese: Well if everybody is charged with falsely representing
themselves, then the lawyers better stop practicing administration
because they are not qualified and they are not eligible.
Mayor Ferre: This is your good-bye and we are not going to end
it this way.
Now does anybody want to make a motion on this?
Or is this matter closed?
Mrs. Gordon: Well if this is going to hurt the stability of the
City of Miami's Government, certainly nobody wants to move it the way
its written.
Mayor Ferre: Now you have seen the light.
Mrs. Gordon: No, I say if it does.
Mayor Ferre: Oh, you haven't seen the light. Okay, make the motion.
Mrs. Gordon: Let's go home.
185
JUL 2 61973
95, PROPOSE CHARTER AMENDMENT - FULL TIME CITY ATTORNEY
An Ordinance entitled -
AN ORDINANCE SETTING l'ORTH A PROPOSED CHARTER AMEND—
MENT BY ADDING TO SECTION 21 OF THE CHARTER OF THE
CITY OF MIAMI A PARAGRAPH CONTAINING: A PROVISION THAT
TEE CITY ATTORNEY Oir THE CITY OF MIAMI SHALL BE A FULL
TIME GOVERNMENTAL EMPLOYEE; SHALL NOT ENGAGE IN THE
PRIVATE PRACTICE OF LAW; AND UPON HIS ELECTION BY THE
CITY COMMISSION SHALL SERVE UNTIL THE TIME FOR THE
ELECTION OF THE CITY OFFICIALS SPECIFIED IN SEC 4(c)
OF THE CHARTER WHICH FOLLOWS THE NEXT GENERAL MUNICIPAL
ELECTION; AND SUBMITTING THE PROPOSED CHARTER AMENDMENT
TO THE ELECTORS OF THE CITY OF MIAMI AT THE GENERAL
MUNICIPAL ELECTION ON NOVEMBER 6,1973; PROVIDING THAT
THIS PROPOSED CHARTER AMENDMENT SHALL BE REFERRED TO AS
PROPOSED CHARTER AMENDMENT NUMBER 1. REPEALING ALL
ORDINANCES, CODE SECTIONS OR PARTS THEREOF IN CONFLICT,
INSOFAR AS THEY ARE IN CONFLICT; CONTAINING A SEVERA—
BILITY PROVISION; DECLARING TRIS ORDINANCE TO BE AN
EMERGENCY MEASURE; DISPENSING WITH THE REQUIREMENT OF
READING THE SAME ON TWO SEPARATE DAYS BY A VOTE OF NOT
LESS THAN FOUR —FIFTHS OF THE MEMBERS OF THE COMMISSION
was introduced by Mr. Reboso and seconded by Mr. Plummer, for
adoption as an emergency measure and dispensing with the requirement
of reading same on two separate days, which was agreed to by the
following vote - 'AYES: Messrs. Plummer, Reboso, Mrs. Gordon,
Reverend Gibson and Mayor Ferre. NOES: None
Whereupon the Commission on motion of Mr. Reboso, seconded by
Mr. Plummer, adopted said ordinance by the following vote -
AYES: Messrs. Reboso, Plummer, Mrs. Gordon, Reverend Gibson and
Mayor Ferre. Noes: None
SAID ORDINANCE WAS DESIGNATED ORDINANCE NO. 8180.
186
JUL 261973
• •
96, FAREWELL STATEMENT BY RETIRING CITY MANAGER M. L. GEESE
Mr. Mayon, I haven't anything mope that 1 know
o 6 other than 1 want to thank th.ie City Comm.ieeion
Son aetow.i.ng me to be the hanabbek in th.ie
community Son 134 yeane and 1 dare bay that .in
.that 13 Z yeane 1 have been .in this chain, I think
1 have at -through more than 5000 Comm.izz ion Meetings.
The SpecLat Meet.inge, Budget Meetings and eo on.
1 think .ite Sain to bay that. 1 won't bay how many
meettinga that I sat through in other pFacee but I
must admit one thing and I want to eomptiment you.
There i4 never a duce moment.
May I wash you the beet os everything.
* * * * *'* * * * * * * * * * * * *
ADJOURNMENT: THERE BEING NO FURTHER BUSINESS TO COME BEFORE THE
CITY COMMISSION. THE MEETING WAS ADJOURNED AT:
ATTEST: H. D. SOUTHERN
City Ceenh
RALPH G. ONGIE
A.s6.ietan.t City M./Lk
9:55 P.M. THIS DATE.
MAURICE FERRE
Mayor
187 JUL 2 61973
Cli Tf OF MIAMI
DOCUMENT
INDEX
MEETING DATE:
JULY 26, 1973
COMMISSION RETRIEVAL
ACTION CODE NO. _
ITEM NO.
DOCUMENT IDENTIFICATION
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
COMMISSION AGENDA & CITY CLERK REPORT (19 pages)
CREATING MIAMI COMMISSION ON THE STATUS OF
WOMEN
RESCINDING RESOLUTION NO. 73-520-APPOINT CITY
MANAGER
APPOINTING PAUL W. ANDREWS AS CITY MANAGER
EXPRESSING CONFIDENCE OF CITY COMMISSION
IN ABILITY OF PAUL W. ANDREWS AS CITY MANAGER
APPRECIATION TO MR. WALTER ETLING AND MEr"BERS
OF THE MAYOR'S COMMITTEE ON PARKS AND
RECREATION
METROPOLITAN DADE COUNTY PARK BOND FUNDS FOR
DEVELOPMENT OF PARK AND RECREATION -CITY MIAMI
CONFIRMING RESOLUTION NO. 73-500-CONSTRUCTION
SHENANDOAH HIGHWAY IMPROVEMENT
CONFIRMING RESOLUTION NO. 73-501-CONSTRUCTION
SHENANDOAH HIGHWAY IMPROVEMENT SECTION B-H4365
VARIANCE -CONSTRUCTION- 64 N.E. 7TH STREET
ACCEPT COMPLETED WORK OF MARKS BROTHERS COMPANY -
CONSTRUCTION OF CORAL WAY SOUTH HIGHWAY
CONDITIONAL USE-7 LEVEL PARKING STRUCTURE-
200 S.E. 2ND AVENUE
PROPOSED NEW PLANNING AND ZONING PROCEDURES
VARIANCE-CONSTRUCTION-1764 S.W. 3RD AVENUE
CONDITIONAL USE-CONSTRUCTION-2329 N.W. 34TH
STREET
CONDITIONAL USE -AUTO PAINT SHOP-2530 N.W.
36TH STREET
ACCEPT COMPLETED WORK BY FENCE MASTERS INC.
FIRE STATIONS FENCING
ACCEPT COMPLETED WORK-HOLLAND PAVING CO -
CONSTRUCTION SOUTHERN DRAINAGE PROJECT E-27
ACCEPT COMPLETED WORK-FITZGERALD ENGINEERING CO.
INC.-N.W. 17 AVENUE T.V. INSPECTION PROJECT
R-73-566
R-73-569
R-73-570
R-73-572
R-73-579
R-73-581
R-73-582
R-73-583
R-73-584
R-73-585
R-73-587
R-73-588
R-73-589
R-73-590
R-73-591
R-73-592
R-73-593
0097
73-566
73-569
73-570
73-572
73-579
73-581
73-582
73-583
73-584
73-585
73-587
0098
73-588
73-589
73-590
73-591
73-592
73-593
IDOCU MENT4N DEX
ITEM NO.
DOCUMENT IDENTIFICATION
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
• 31
32
33
34
35
36
37
38
39
40
ACCEPT PLAT ENTITLED ELDA GARDENS SUBDIVISION -
A SUBDIVISION CITY OF MIAMI
AUTHORIZE CITY MANAGER DELIVER METROPOLITAN
DADE COUNTY A DISCLAIMER AGREEMENT
ACCEPT FROM ALLEN R. GREENWALD A COVENANT TO
RUN WITH THE LAND DATED JUNE.7, 1973
NAMING BICYCLE PATH -THE SIEGENDORF BICYCLE PATH -
THE RICKENBACKER CAUSEWAY
ACCEPT A $23,645 STATE GRANT FOR CONSTRUCTION
OF SIEGENDORF BICYCLE PATH
ACCEPT HIGHWAY RIGHT OF WAY DEED-LEO PAUL LA
ROSE-N.W. 30 STREET EAST OF N.W. 21 AVENUE
ALLOCATING 1972 PARKS BOND FUND TO COVER COST
APPRAISAL SERVICES PROGRAM PARES FOR PEOPLE
PUBLIC HEARING-SIIENANDOAH HI•GHWWAY IMPROVEMENT
ADDITIONAL PARE FACILITIES FOR THE CREATION
OF FORT DALLAS PARK
ADDITIONAL PARE FACILITIES FOR EXPANSION
OF EATON PARK
ISSUE DUPLICATE TAX SALE CERTIFICATE TO
MARGUERITE LEWIN
APROVING ONE YEAR EXTENSION EMPLOYMENT
FOR PIO ZUCLICH-WATCHMAN
FEDERAL GRANT APPLICATION DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE -
PROJECT "MANAGEMENT DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM"
ACCEPT BID -INSTALLATION OF ASPHALT WALKWAYS
DINNER KEY PLAN
SOUND AMPLIFICATION SYSTEM FOR MARINE STADIUM -
BOLT BERANEK AND NEWMAN INC.
APPROVING EXTENSION OF EMPLOYMENT FOR
CIIARLES I. BERRY -CUSTODIAN I
FUNDS FOR JAMES DEMOS AND BOBBY DYKES -ATTEND THE
WORLD BOXING ASSOCIATION CONVENTION-VENEZUELA
ALLOCATE PUBLIC PARK BOND FUNDS TO EDWARD D.
STONE AND ASSOCIATES FOR WATSON ISLAN PLAN
SPECIAL CHARGE ACCOUNTS FOR HOTELS AND MOTELS
IN MIAMI AREA FOR LEJEUNE GOLF COURSE
CONDITIONAL USE -CONSTRUCTION GREYHOUND BUS
TERMINAL - 950 N.E. 2ND AVENUE
AMENDING RESOLUTION NO. 72-817-PROCEEDINGS WITH
LOCAL 654-AMERICAN FEDERATION -EMPLOYEES
R-73-594
R-73-595
R-73-596
R-73-597
R-73-598
R-73-599
R-73-600
R-73-601
R-73-602
R-73-603
R-73-604
R-73-605
R-73-606
R-73-607
R-73-608
R-73-609
R-73-610
R-73-611
R-73-612
R-73-613
73-594
73-595
73-596
73-597
73-598
73-599
73-600
0098
73-601
73-602
73-603
73-604
73-605
73-606
73-607
73-608
73-609
73-610
73-611
73-612
73-613
rf /
DOCUM 1 NT'I 14 DEX
ITEM NO.
41
42
43
44
DOCUMENT IDENTIFICATION
ACCEPT BID -MARKS BROTHERS COMPANY -CONSTRUCTION
VIRGINIA GROVE HIGHWAY IMPROVEMENT H-4358
SANITARY SEWER BOND. FUND FOR CONSTRUCTION OF
SAN MARCO SANITARY SEWER IMPROVEMENT SR-5316C
ACCEPT BID -FENCE MASTERS INC. FOR THE EDISON
AND WYNDWOOD PARKS -BASEBALL BACKSTOPS
ACCEPT BID -HENRY DeGRAFF & SON FOR WYNDWOOD
PARE COMMUNITY BUILDING ALTERATIONS
45 ACCEPT BID-D.M.P. CORPORATION -CONSTRUCTION OF
CENTRAL DRAINAGE PROJECT E-29-
46 CONDITIONAL USE -PARKING LOT-160 N.E. 5TH STREET
47 PAYMENT TO TA TA JI."EENEZ AND MARIA JIMENEZ-
CLAIM SETTLEMENT
48 RATIFYING THE SETTLEMENT DATED JULY 10-1973 IN
ROBBIE ET AL. v. CITY OF MIAMI ET AL.
49 FIRMS SELECTED BY CITY OF MIAMI INVESTMENT
COMMITTEE TO ACT AS MONEY MANAGERS OF FUNDS
50 NON -PARTISAN PRIMARY ELECTION FOR NOMINATION OF
CANDIDATES OFFICES OF MAYOR AND TWO
COMMISSIONERS
51 PROVISIONS FOR SPECIAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION TO BE
HELD NOVEMBER 6, 1973
52 PUBLIC HEARING -PLANNING AND ZONING PROCEDURES
53 HISTORICAL MARKER COMMEMORATING THE LANDING OF
DON PEDRO MENENDEZ-BISCAYNE BOULEVARD S.E.
2ND STREET
54 FTARTING SALARY OF PAUL W. ANDREWS-$42.200.00
CITY MANAGER
55
56
57
58
59
AGREEMENT BETWEEN CITY OF MIAMI AND MEL REESE
AND ASSOCIATES, INC.
TRANSFERRING FROM CONTINGENCY FUND TO THE PROPER
ACCOUNT -SERVICES OF RETAIL CREDIT COMPANY
ACCEPT BID -OPERATION OF A SUMMER YOUTH
TRANSPORTATION PROGRAM
APPLICATION TO THE NATIONAL LEAGUE OF CITIES-
U.S. CONFERENCE OF MAYORS,INC.
APPLICATION TO THE REGIONAL OFFICE OF ECONOMIC
OPPORT'_'NITY
60 AUTHORIZE CITY MANAGER TO PURCHASE BY NEGOTIATION
IN LIEU OF CONDEMNATION PARCEL NO. 7091.4
161
ORDINANCE AMEND BY DELETING SECTION 15(a) OF THE
CHARTER OF THE CITY OF MIAMI
CONTINUED PAGE #
OMISSION DEAR
ACTION
R-73-614
R-73-615
R-73-616
R-73-617
R-73-618
R-73-620
R-73-622
R-73-623
R-73-625
R-73-626
R-73-627
R-73-629
R-73-630
R-73-631
R-73-633
R-73-634
R-73-635
R-73-636
R-73-637
72-614
73-615
73-616
73-617
73-618
73-620
73-622
73-623
73-625
73-626
73-627
0099
73-629
73-630
73-631
73-633
73-634
73-635
73-636
73-637
0100