HomeMy Public PortalAbout04- April, 08, 2009 Meeting Minutes CITY OF OPA-LOCKA
"The Great City"
Clerk's Action Summary Minutes
Regular Commission Meeting
April 8,2009
7:00 p.m.
City Commission Chambers
777 Sharazad Boulevard
Opa-locka,FL 33054
1. CALL TO ORDER:
Mayor Joseph L. Kelley called the meeting to order at 7:03 p.m. on Wednesday, April 8,
2009 in the City Commission Chambers, 777 Sharazad Boulevard, Opa-locka, Florida
33054.
2. ROLL CALL:
The following members of the City Commission were present: Commissioner Timothy
Holmes, Vice Mayor Myra L. Taylor, Commissioner Dorothy Johnson and Mayor Joseph
L. Kelley. Also in attendance were: Interim City Manager Bryan K. Finnie, City Attorney
Burnadette Norris-Weeks and City Clerk Deborah S. Irby. Commissioner Rose Tydus
arrived at 7:05 p.m.
3. INVOCATION:
The Invocation was delivered by Vice Mayor Myra L. Taylor.
4. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE:
The Pledge of Allegiance was recited in unison.
5. APPROVAL OF AGENDA:
6. APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA AND PULL LIST (deferrals and
deletions):
It was moved by Commissioner Johnson, seconded by Vice Mayor Taylor to approve the
agenda and consent agenda.
There being no discussion, the motion passed by a 5-0 vote.
Commissioner Holmes Yes
Commissioner Johnson Yes
Commissioner Tydus Yes
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes—April 08,2009 1
Vice Mayor Taylor Yes
Mayor Kelley Yes
7. AWARDS/PROCLAMATIONS/ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS:
Commendations were presented by Commissioner Timothy Holmes to the following
employees for their dedicated service and commitment to the city: Gerald Lee, Gordy
Lee, Lavelle Jenrette, Nelson Rodriguez, Bernardo Larralde, Shawn Williams, Starex
Smith, Joanna Flores, Diane Darden, Sha'mecca Lawson, Faye Douglas and Christine
Gordon.
Commissioner Holmes further presented Derick Jones with a Certificate of Appreciation
for assisting in identifying hazardous situations in the community.
Mayor Joseph L. Kelley along with the City Commission presented the South Florida
Water Management District with a proclamation for Water Conservation Month (April
2009).
8. APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
Regular Commission Meeting—March 25, 2009
It was moved by Commissioner Johnson, seconded by Vice Mayor Taylor to approve the
minutes of the Regular Commission Meeting of March 25, 2009.
There being no discussion, the motion passed by a 5-0 vote.
Commissioner Johnson Yes
Commissioner Tydus Yes
Vice Mayor Taylor Yes
Commissioner Holmes Yes
Mayor Kelley Yes
9. DISTRICT ONE - COUNTY COMMISSIONER REPORT:
Mark Brown, Assistant to Commissioner Barbara Jordan, District 1 County
Commissioner came forward and briefly updated the Commission on the Beautification
and Rehabilitation Program (statistic information on this project provided to the City
Clerk for distribution to the Commission). He further asked for approval to have the two
project managers make a presentation at the April 22, 2009 regular commission meeting
to showcase the before and after photos.
Additionally, Mr. Brown discussed the Relay for Life event on the following Friday and
the Summer Youth Program sponsored by Commissioner Barbara Jordan.
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes—April 08,2009 2
Mayor Kelley expressed his opposition regarding Miami-Dade County's proposed 5%
stimulus fee which would greatly affect small cities like Opa-locka and requested that
Mr. Brown communicate this information to Commissioner Jordan.
Commissioner Johnson requested that Mr. Brown express to Commissioner Jordan the
city's gratitude for the recent Jazz in the Gardens Festival.
Vice Mayor Taylor asked for further information on Commissioner Jordan's Summer
Youth Program.
Mayor Kelley directed the City Clerk to include on the next agenda a presentation
relating to the update on the two components of the Housing Program.
Battalion Chief Danny Cardeso of Miami-Dade Fire Rescue came forward to address any
concerns/questions with regards to Miami-Dade Fire Rescue.
10. PUBLIC PRESENTATION:
1. Alvin Burke
re: welfare of the city
Alvin Burke of 540 Sharar Avenue, Opa-locka, Florida, appeared before the City
Commission and expressed his concerns relating to consent agenda resolution no. 1 for
Creative Choice Homes for a Senior Citizens development on Alexandria Drive and a
recently hired employee in the Human Resources Department who started with a salary
higher than that of a police officer in the city. He suggested that the city make the Opa-
locka Police Department's salary comparable to other cities the same size. Secondly, he
spoke on the resolution to pay an outside attorney when the city has a City Attorney with
a salary of$200,000.00. He asked about the services rendered by the outside attorney and
whether anybody had reviewed the number of cases going out to private attorneys?
He further stated that the employees who have been with the city for many years are
being treated unfairly while the city continues to hire individuals with high salaries.
Since the citizens don't have the supporting documentation in the agenda packet,
Commissioner Johnson suggested that the information is made available to the citizens.
As it relates to Greenspoon Marder, her understanding was that it was not an outsourced
case but a matter regarding an employee suing the city.
Attorney Weeks advised that the resolution deals with payment for several cases in
litigation which she previously discussed with the Commission. The only remaining case
that the firm is handling is a case dealing with the Flea Market.
For future meetings, Commissioner Johnson requested that the City Clerk make available
to the citizens all supporting documentation for agenda items. Another good point Mr.
Burke brought up which she received inquiries from citizens, was relating to the hiring
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes—April 08,2009 3
process which personally, according to the city's charter, the Commission should not be
in the day to day operations of whose hired and the salary range. She requested that the
City Manager allow the Human Resources Director to come forward. She asked, is there
a process and scale of hiring practices, posting of jobs, salary range and notification to
individuals who are not selected.
Mrs. Boyd replied, yes.
Commissioner Johnson expressed her concerns relating to the hiring process; the city
must make sure the citizens are aware.
10a. CITIZENS' FORUM:
1. Ferdonia Williams of Bunche Park, Florida came forward and expressed her
frustration regarding a matter that occurred resulting in the arrest of several of her family
members in December 2008.
Mayor Kelley asked, were Opa-locka Police Officers involved in the arrest?
Mrs. Williams said that it was federal officers and the incident took place in Bunche
Park.
Because the incident occurred in Bunche Park and not in the City of Opa-locka, Mayor
Kelley informed Mrs. Williams that the city would assist her in getting in contact with the
correct agency.
2. Ruby McKinnon of 1240 Sharazad Boulevard, Opa-locka, Florida, came forward
and spoke on the same matter as Mrs. Williams and asked for assistance because her son
remains in jail and is being treated unfairly.
Mayor Kelley directed Mrs. McKinnon to speak to Mark Brown, Assistant to District 1
County Commissioner, for assistance in trying to get this issue resolved.
3. Jones Turner of 13926 NW 22nd Place, Opa-locka, Florida, appeared before the
City Commission and thanked Vice Mayor Taylor for repairing the sidewalk in front of
his home; however, his neighbors would like to see their sidewalks repaired as well. He
suggested putting a program in place to repair the sidewalks and possibly hiring young
individuals from the community to do the work. He reported an incident in which a lady
was jogging and fell as a result of the cracked sidewalk.
Mayor Kelley assumed that the city had started repairing sidewalks in one area since
there is supposed to be a program in place to address this issue.
Manager Finnie indicated that inventory on the sidewalks had begun and he is addressing
priority issues in terms of hazards.
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes—April 08,2009 4
Mayor Kelley informed the City Manager that according to Mr. Turner, these cracked
sidewalks pose a hazard.
Commissioner Johnson stated that the sidewalks in certain areas throughout the city are
in poor condition.
Mayor Kelly informed Mr. Turner that the City Manager is well aware of the issue with
the sidewalks and will continue to work on it. He stated to the City Manager that he
didn't know how the inventory was being done in terms of priority because Mr. Turner is
saying the other part of the sidewalk is still unsafe.
Manager Finnie said he would sit with Public Works and come up with a comprehensive
plan for the entire city.
Mayor Kelley said he thought the City Manager was already working on a
comprehensive plan for the entire city.
Manager Finnie stated that they are looking at infrastructure, roadway, and a number of
things.
As a point of clarification, Mayor Kelley stated that as soon as a sidewalk is repaired then
everyone else is going to want theirs repaired as well. Therefore, there must be a structure
in place to start getting it done.
4. Former Commissioner Gail E. Miller of 14235 NW 22nd Place, Opa-locka,
Florida, appeared before the City Commission to express her concerns relating to how
applicants and employees are unfairly treated by the Human Resources Director. She
spoke about the hiring process for the Urban Rangers, the new employee in the Human
Resources Department and the new Code Enforcement Director. She asked about Tasha
Barney who worked in Human Resources but is no longer in that department.
Furthermore, she suggested that the Commission do what's right because the way the
economy is, the city should not be hiring at all.
5. Steven Barratt of 633 Sharar Avenue, Opa-locka, Florida, came forward and
stated that at the Weed & Seed meeting it was announced that there are 4,000 jobs
available for the youth; therefore, the city should work on getting some of those jobs for
the youth in the community.
He continued by saying that a large percentage of residents in Opa-locka utilize satellite
television and perhaps the city should work on getting franchise fees.
Additionally, he spoke in favor of the second reading ordinance dealing with restricting
trucks from driving on certain streets throughout the city.
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes—April 08,2009 5
Mayor Kelley assumed that the City Manager had staff at the Weed & Seed meeting and
that the information on the jobs is already posted on the city's cable channel OPA-TV
and Website.
Manager Finnie clarified that the announcement was made at the Steering Committee by
an individual who was speaking about the 4,000 jobs being managed through the county;
therefore, it was just an informational announcement. He said he would attempt to access
the information for dissemination to the community.
Whenever there's job opportunities, Mayor Kelley suggested that the information is made
available to the citizens by posting it on the city's website and Opa-TV.
6. Ms. Mitchell of 14240 NW 22n1 Avenue, Opa-locka, Florida, came forward and
spoke on the hiring process in terms of the posting of jobs and citizens not getting a fair
chance at employment. She suggested that the hiring process be looked into because it
seems like a friends and family thing.
Commissioner Johnson expressed her frustration and discontentment as it relates to the
complaints about the procedures and hiring process of the Human Resources Department.
7. Alvin Burke of 540 Sharar Avenue, Opa-locka, Florida, appeared before the City
Commission and reiterated that there are a lot of good and loyal employees in the city.
When the city was going through financial trouble, whatever the employees were asked
to do, they did. The employees have stuck around through the hard and bad times. He
said there was no way a person could come into the city and displace those employees
who stuck it out when the going was rough; there's no way that an employee who's done
an excellent job for many years all of a sudden can't do the job anymore and has to be
moved. He said this was not fair and it shouldn't happen in Opa-locka.
Although the Commission doesn't get involved with the day to day operations of the city,
Mr. Burke stated that the citizens elected the Commission as their leaders; not the City
Manager nor the City Attorney. He further spoke on the salary for police officers and
high property taxes.
8. Former Commissioner Gail E. Miller of 14235 NW 22nd Place, Opa-locka,
Florida, appeared before the City Commission and asked, after learning about the city
hiring a new grant writer, what happened to the previous grant writer?
Mayor Kelley stated that the previous grant writer is currently employed by the city
although he is no longer in that department.
On Saturday, April 4, 2009 in Liberty City on NW 62n1 Street and NW 8th Avenue,
Commissioner Holmes said the City of Miami held its 8th Annual Candlelight Vigil in
honor of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes—April 08,2009 6
Mayor Kelley made reference to page 11 of the Regular Commission Meeting Minutes of
March 25, 2009 where he made it very clear about the Personnel Board Meeting Minutes
relating to hiring within the city, particularly city residents. Also, at that meeting he
mentioned complaints from residents not being hired and the city hiring outside
individuals; positions being filled reference qualifying and hoped the process being used
is fair. He even questioned the City Manager about preferential points for being a city
resident and it was said at that meeting that preference points were given to city residents
and 100% of the people hired for the particular position were residents of the city. He
then asked for the process used to hire in any city position and giving preferential points
or some discretion. At the meeting, he directed the City Manager to look into the hiring
process because although the city wants to hire the best, he was concerned at that time
after receiving complaints about the hiring process and giving city residents full
consideration. As a part of that whole discussion reflected in the minutes, he said the city
must do a better job in the day to day items.
He continued by saying that citizens have come to express their frustration and concerns
about the process and yes the City Manager runs day to day but the Commission runs the
City Manager. At the last meeting, he asked that the City Manager make sure the hiring
process used is stern, fair, and most importantly when at all possible that city residents be
given an opportunity. The City Manager runs the day to day operations, but these things
that are occurring fall under the City Manager's jurisdiction and it ultimately stops with
him.
He further stated that he is concerned about making sure the Commission doesn't
overstep the boundary of the City Manager's right to run day to day; however, he is not
happy with the performance of the City Manager and many of these issues that happen
day to day. Whenever there's an opportunity to make sure the ship runs smoothly then the
City Manager must do that. He also expressed his concerns relating to seeing outside
people coming into the city that are being hired and former employees getting paid while
another employee is hired to fill that same position. He said Opa-locka is not a city that
has dollars to be paying exuberant salaries. The City Manager brought in people to run
certain departments which is his prerogative to do, but he is concerned about what he sees
as spending dollars the city doesn't have to be spending and to put people in positions
that there's no funding for. He asked for information on grants and he received a partial
listing and then a percentage breakdown because what he requested was not provided.
There are items he brought up at the last meeting that he has not received correspondence
reference to his request. He expressed his disappointment and said stated that it is up to
the City Manager to make sure he doesn't forget day to day. Although he is aware that
the city is working on getting money from Tallahassee, the Federal Government, and
stimulus dollars, that doesn't mean anything if the City Manager doesn't take care of the
people here in the city and the day to day things that need to be done.
Of concern to Commissioner Tydus were the allegations made by Ms. Mitchell involving
her husband and if those allegations are true then it is unacceptable. Realizing that the
administration didn't have an opportunity to respond, she asked that the Commission be
provided with a report on that specific incident.
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes—April 08,2009 7
11. ACTION ITEMS (items from consent agenda pull list):
12. NEW ITEMS:
13. PLANNING & ZONING:
A. HEARINGS:
B. APPEALS:
14. ORDINANCES/RESOLUTIONS/PUBLIC HEARING:
A. FIRST READING:
1. AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF OPA-
LOCKA, FLORIDA APPROVING THE DUAL DESIGNATION OF NW 141ST
STREET FROM NW 23RD AVENUE TO NW 26TH AVENUE AS "MOTHER E. JEAN
PRUETT STREET"; PROVIDING FOR REPEAL OF ALL ORDINANCES IN
CONFLICT; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE
DATE. Sponsored by M.T.
The above ordinance was read by title by Attorney Weeks.
It was moved by Vice Mayor Taylor, seconded by Commissioner Johnson to pass the
above ordinance on first reading.
There being no discussion, the motion passed by a 5-0 vote.
Commissioner Tydus Yes
Vice Mayor Taylor Yes
Commissioner Holmes Yes
Commissioner Johnson Yes
Mayor Kelley Yes
2. AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF OPA-
LOCKA, FLORIDA APPROVING THE DUAL DESIGNATION OF WILMINGTON
STREET FROM NW 18TH AVENUE TO NW 22ND AVENUE AS "JOHNNIE MAE
GREENE STREET"; PROVIDING FOR REPEAL OF ALL ORDINANCES IN
CONFLICT; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE
DATE. Sponsored by D.J.
The above ordinance was read by title by Attorney Weeks.
It was moved by Commissioner Johnson, seconded by Vice Mayor Taylor to pass the
above ordinance on first reading.
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes—April 08,2009 8
There being no discussion, the motion passed by a 5-0 vote.
Vice Mayor Taylor Yes
Commissioner Holmes Yes
Commissioner Johnson Yes
Commissioner Tydus Yes
Mayor Kelley Yes
Vice Mayor Taylor commended Commissioner Johnson for sponsoring the ordinance for
the dual designation of Wilmington Street to "Johnnie Mae Greene Street".
B. SECOND READING/PUBLIC HEARING:
1. AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF OPA-
LOCKA, FLORIDA; AMENDING CHAPTER 20 OF THE OPA-LOCKA CODE OF
ORDINANCES ENTITLED "TRAILERS" BY CREATING SECTION 20.8 ENTITLED
"TRUCK ROUTES ESTABLISHED" AND ESTABLISHING REGULATIONS FOR
ROAD USAGE BY COMMERCIAL VEHICLES WITHIN THE CITY OF OPA-
LOCKA; PROVIDING FOR APPLICABILITY AND DEFINITIONS; PROVIDING
FOR EXCEPTIONS; PROVIDING FOR ESTABLISHMENT OF TRUCK ROUTES;
PROVIDING FOR PENALTIES; PROVIDING FOR INCORPORATION OF
RECITALS; PROVIDING FOR CONFLICT AND REPEALER; PROVIDING FOR
SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE (first reading held on
March 25, 2009). Sponsored by C.M.
Mayor Kelley opened the floor for a public hearing.
Steven Barrett of 633 Sharar Avenue, Opa-locka, Florida came forward and asked that
the Commission pass the above ordinance.
Mr. Turner of 13926 NW 22nd Place, Opa-locka, Florida, appeared before the City
Commission and encouraged them to adopt the ordinance.
There being no further persons to speak on the public hearing, the public hearing was
closed.
It was moved by Commissioner Johnson, seconded by Vice Mayor Taylor to adopt the
above ordinance.
There being no discussion, the motion passed by a 5-0 vote.
Commissioner Johnson Yes
Commissioner Holmes Yes
Commissioner Tydus Yes
Vice Mayor Taylor Yes
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes—April 08,2009 9
Mayor Kelley Yes
C. RESOLUTION(S):
15. ADMINISTRATION:
CONSENT AGENDA:
1. A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF OPA-
LOCKA, FLORIDA, DECLARING THE CITY'S INTENT TO DEED CERTAIN
VACANT CITY-OWNED PROPERTY IDENTIFIED BY FOLIO NO. 08-2128-007-
0270 TO CREATIVE CHOICE HOMES XXXVIII, LTD FOR A PROPOSED SENIOR
HOUSING DEVELOPMENT PURSUANT TO CERTAIN CITY CONDITIONS AND
RESTRICTIONS. Sponsored by C.M.
2. A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF OPA-
LOCKA, FLORIDA, RECOGNIZING MAY 7, 2009 AS NATIONAL DAY OF
PRAYER WITHIN THE CITY OF OPA-LOCKA. Sponsored by R.T.
3. A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF OPA-
LOCKA, FLORIDA AUTHORIZING THE PURCHASE OF TABLES, CHAIRS AND
CARTS FOR USE IN THE CITY COMMISSION MEETING SPACE LOCATED ON
THE 2ND FLOOR OF TOWN CENTER ONE, IN THE AMOUNT OF TEN
THOUSAND SIX HUNDRED FORTY-FOUR DOLLARS ($10,644.00), PAYABLE
FROM ACCOUNT NO. 19-519642. Sponsored by C.M.
4. A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF OPA-
LOCKA, FLORIDA, AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO FILE A FY 2009
URBAN & COMMUNITY FORESTRY GRANT APPLICATION WITH THE
FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE AND CONSUMER SERVICES,
DIVISION OF FORESTRY, IN THE AMOUNT OF TEN THOUSAND DOLLARS
($10,000.00) FOR PURCHASE OF A WATER TRUCK AS PART OF "PROJECT
CLEANER AND GREENER". Sponsored by C.M.
5. A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF OPA-
LOCKA, FLORIDA, ACCEPTING THE PROPOSAL FROM MCCADVANTAGE,
MUNICIPAL CODE CORPORATION, IN RESPONSE TO RFP NO. 09-0320 FOR
PROCESSING OF UTILITY BILLS; FURTHER AUTHORIZING THE CITY
MANAGER TO ENTER INTO AND EXECUTE AN AGREEMENT WITH
MCCADVANTAGE, MUNICIPAL CODE CORPORATION, FOR THE PROVISION
OF UTILITY BILL PROCESSING SERVICES IN A CONTRACT FORM
ACCEPTABLE TO THE CITY ATTORNEY, PAYABLE FROM ACCOUNT NO. 17-
513340. Sponsored by C.M.
6. A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF OPA-
LOCKA, FLORIDA ACCEPTING THE PROPOSAL FROM EMERGENCY
COMMUNICATIONS NETWORK, INC., AS A SOLE SOURCE SELECTION FOR
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes—April 08,2009 10
IMPLEMENTATION OF CODERED HIGH SPEED TELEPHONE NOTIFICATION
SERVICES AT AN ANNUAL COST OF THIRTEEN THOUSAND TWO HUNDRED
AND FIFTY DOLLARS ($13,250.00); FURTHER AUTHORIZING THE CITY
MANAGER TO MAKE PAYMENT OF THIRTEEN THOUSAND TWO HUNDRED
AND FIFTY DOLLARS ($13,250.00) TO EMERGENCY COMMUNICATIONS
NETWORK, INC. FOR CODERED HIGH SPEED TELEPHONE NOTIFICATION
SERVICES, PAYABLE FROM ACCOUNT NO. 19-519340. Sponsored by C.M.
7. A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF OPA-
LOCKA, FLORIDA, AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO MAKE PAYMENT
TO GREENSPOON MARDER, P.A. FOR LEGAL SERVICES RENDERED TO THE
CITY OF OPA-LOCKA IN THE AMOUNT OF SIXTEEN THOUSAND, TWO
HUNDRED SEVEN DOLLARS AND FORTY-FIVE CENTS ($16,207.45), PAYABLE
FROM ACCOUNT NO. 28-514390. Sponsored by C.M.
The above consent agenda resolutions were read by title by Attorney Weeks.
It was moved by Commissioner Holmes, seconded by Commissioner Johnson to pass the
consent agenda resolutions.
There being no discussion, the motion passed by a 5-0 vote.
Commissioner Johnson Yes
Commissioner Tydus Yes
Vice Mayor Taylor Yes
Commissioner Holmes Yes
Mayor Kelley Yes
A. CITY MANAGER'S REPORT:
Over the last five months, Manager Finnie reported that he'd focused on restructuring the
departments of the city to meet the goals and objectives of the strategic plan. Over the
next few months, his focus would be on working with the police department to begin the
process of accreditation; taking a gook look at the Parks & Recreation Department to
maximize the use of those facilities and programs. In addition to the Weed & Seed
program which hopefully the city will find out during the summer.
He continued by saying that he would take a look at the Human Resource process and
will seek to document and report how the city does what it does. He said he would
recommend changes as necessary in those areas where there are inconsistencies.
He further provided an overview of the tabbed items in the booklet provided to all
members of the Commission. They were presented as follows:
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes—April 08,2009 11
Tab 1 provided written response/results, prepared by the City Manager and other
department heads, to many of the concerns expressed during the March 25, 2009
regular commission meeting as listed in the Action List.
Tab 2 provided information regarding hours of operation for bars and distribution
of alcoholic beverages.
Tab 3 provided a list of developable city owned property and pictures of several
locations.
Tab 4 Listing of Boards and Committees provided by the Office of the City Clerk.
Tab 5 Detailed report listing the city's proposed grant applications.
Tab 6 Police Department Report detaining robberies, burglaries, vehicle thefts and
other crimes for March 21-27, 2009.
Tab 7 News articles for the Westside Gazette Broward publication.
Tab 8 Invitation for Ribbon Cutting Ceremony scheduled for 04/30/2009
celebrating the City of Sweetwater Beautification Project completion.
Tab 9 Upcoming City Events 2009.
Tab 10 Newsletters — Opa-locka View — Volume 3, Issue 1; District One,
Commissioner Barbara Jordan—Spring 2009.
Commissioner Johnson informed the City Manager of the need for blockers on NW 127th
Street and NW 27th Avenue along the side of Porter's Locksmith because cars and trucks
are driving on the sidewalk to make a right hand turn onto NW 27th Avenue.
Additionally, the sidewalks in that area are cracked.
She requested a follow up to the complaint at the March 25, 2009 meeting relating to the
police department which she'd hope would be available in the next package. She said she
received two complaints of verbal abuse from the police officers and this must be
addressed.
In working on being a "Go Green" city, she requested that the "U.S. Tree City" signs are
put up around the city. She said several trees were cut down on the street behind New
Fellowship Christian Church and on Opa-locka Boulevard. The city must come up with a
plan to educated the residents because they don't know the importance of the trees and
how it saves the environment.
She further stated that she observed "mattress for sale — brand new" signage along NW
27th Avenue and she noticed individuals picking up old mattresses that are put out for
trash. She was told that there's a business in Opa-locka that takes the old mattresses, put
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes—April 08,2009 12
covers over them and sells them which is not decent. She asked, how does the city allow
them to put their marketing out with handwritten signs and why isn't Code Enforcement
addressing that issue?
Upon hearing a citizen's concern about Direct TV, Commissioner Johnson inquired about
the franchise fees.
She continued by expressing her concerns relating to cell phone usage by city employees
and the status of the external painting of businesses and maintenance of property because
the ordinance was adopted over two years ago. With all these specialists and expertise
being hired, the city must bring everything up to speed.
She further stated that there's a meeting scheduled on April 17, 2009 for the Welcome
Kit. As it relates to Homeland Security, many of the employees are walking around with
no badges on and with all the technology, the Commission also need badges. The City
Clerk has mentioned about people just walking into her office.
With hurricane season beginning on June 1, 2009, Commissioner Johnson said she
previously mentioned about the hurricane plan but she has yet to see any plan of
preparation which should be available to the citizens as well as employees. She requested
that the City Manager provide a Hurricane Preparedness Plan by the April 22, 2009
commission meeting.
Vice Mayor Taylor requested that the City Manager work on a strategic plan for lowering
the property taxes and utility costs to the citizens. As it relates to foreclosure assistance,
she asked, does the city have a general program?
Manager Finnie said that the city is supporting three initiatives; two have commenced
and the third he is waiting to submit an application to Miami-Dade County for the
resources. He stated that the most recent number of foreclosures in the city is 79.
Vice Mayor Taylor requested that the City Manager provide her with the list of
foreclosures because she is particularly interested in assisting people save their homes.
She continued by expressing the importance of having security locks, cameras and/or
mirrors in the City Clerk's Office because that office is wide opened and exposed to
anyone. The City Clerk's Office is not secured especially for the person sitting at the
receptionist desk.
Commissioner Johnson suggested that the Commission as a whole get a copy of the
foreclosure list.
After meeting with the City Manager in January on a plan for foreclosures, Mayor Kelley
said he requested then that the City Manager keep the Commission abreast of this issue.
Since the foreclosure number has increased, he said he would hope that the City Manager
is going to present to the Commission something more comprehensive. Secondly, he had
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes—April 08,2009 13
asked the City Manager to have staff coordinate with the Beacon Council for a Small
Business Assistance Workshop particularly as it relates to helping businesses access
funding; but he hasn't heard anything from anybody.
Manager Finnie apologized to the mayor and stated that the workshop is scheduled for
April 27, 2009. Staff has been on the telephone with the Beacon Council trying to find
out the best time and they believe it would be best to have the workshop in the afternoon.
Also, he is in the process of contacting Miami-Dade Chamber as well as small businesses
in the industrial parks throughout the city.
With regards to the request for an updated list of grants, Mayor Kelley voiced his concern
about the city's ability to meet some of the timelines based on the information he
received as of that day. Also, the original list was a lot larger than what he received, but
there was no explanation as to why that listing was decreased and he would like to know
what happened as it relates to the other grants. Within some of the grants, he noticed
there are a couple of grants the city intends to partner and he is not sure why the city
would partner instead of trying to get all of those dollars, but again it's not attached to the
correspondence so he wouldn't know. The city must take advantage of every grant
opportunity; therefore, he would like to receive an explanation as to why the listing was
decreased.
He continued by expressing his frustration with the fact that Miami-Dade Aviation was
not on the agenda although the City Manager had several representatives at a meeting a
few weeks ago who should have followed through. He said he wanted the presentation to
occur prior to the subcommittee meeting which is schedule for Tuesday, April 14, 2009.
He requested that the City Manager find out what happened and provide him with a
report by Friday, April 10, 2009.
He further stated that he noticed the activities for the Parks & Recreation Department;
however, he didn't see enough of Baseball since it is Baseball season. After attending the
meeting held the other day, he is still concerned that the city is not well rounded enough
in terms of programs & activities. However, since the City Manager is working on this
issue he'll wait on a report.
B. ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:
16. OFFICIAL BOARD REPORTS:
17. CITY ATTORNEY'S REPORT:
18. CITY CLERK'S REPORT:
Clerk Irby read into the record a letter sent from the Office of the Governor in response to
the adoption of the resolution urging the Florida Legislature to pass legislation curtailing
the abuse of prescription drugs in the State of Florida.
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes—April 08,2009 14
As it relates to the Passport initiative, she said she completed the paperwork for the city
to be a Passport facility and she would keep the Commission informed.
Further, she had a successful meeting with the representatives from the U.S. Census
Bureau and requested a headquarters in the city, monies for advertisements and that they
hire city residents.
Commissioner Johnson directed the City Clerk to send a "Thank You" letter to Mrs. Tang
of the U.S. Census Bureau.
She directed the City Attorney to do some discovery on Mayor Manny Diaz's Ban on
Assault Weapons and bring back legislation.
Mayor Kelley informed Commissioner Johnson that Opa-locka was one of the first cities
to pass a resolution on the Ban on Assault Weapons; however, there's another
component.
Commissioner Johnson directed the City Attorney to go back to Mayor Kelley's previous
resolution and amend it to include that additional component.
Vice Mayor Taylor asked about the training and jobs available from the U.S. Census
Bureau.
Commissioner Tydus briefly discussed Mr. Burke's reference to several agenda items
which he didn't have the backup information. As a result of the information not being
available to him or other citizens more than none they usually do not approach the
Commission with accurate allegations or information. She requested that the City Clerk
make available an agenda packet either at the reception area in the Clerk's Office or the
reception area near the elevator because it's public information.
Clerk Flores informed Commissioner Tydus that an additional agenda packet is always
made and placed in the reception area in the Office of the City Clerk for anyone to view.
After hearing the concerns about security in the City Clerk's Office, Manager Finnie
suggested that the agenda packet be placed in a location in the hall way.
Both Commissioner Tydus and Commissioner Johnson recommended having the agenda
packet placed in the hallway near the elevator.
Commissioner Johnson asked, what happened to the discussion about having the agenda
electronically?
Clerk Irby said she is looking into an automated agenda which would be better for the
public to access.
19. MAYOR/COMMISSION REPORT:
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes—April 08,2009 15
Vice Mayor Taylor announced that the Miami-Dade NAACP is conducting a month long
recruiting and membership drive in the month of May, focusing on Miami Gardens and
the City of Opa-locka. She encouraged the city officials, businesses and citizens to join
the NAACP which is one of the oldest civil rights organizations. She informed the City
Attorney that she would provide the information for a resolution to support the drive.
Secondly, she announced that May 17 —23, 2009 is National Public Works Week and she
is sponsoring activities for Public Works (information to be provided at a later time).
She further extended an invitation to the Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday, April 11, 2009 at
Ingram Park.
Commissioner Holmes stated that all employees who work for the "great" City of Opa-
locka do an excellent job and the few who he presented commendations go above and
beyond the call of duty to get things done for the citizens of our community. He
commended the Opa-locka Police Department for doing an excellent job in public safety.
The city must work on the police department to give them the resources necessary so that
they may improve the protection of the community. He thanked the City Manager for
having the police officer on Jann Avenue with the radar gun addressing the speeding.
He continued by thanking Derick Jones for bringing to the city's attention the hazardous
situation which prevented someone from getting hurt.
Commissioner Tydus reported that she attended the following events: landscaping project
at Burlington Canal with the Crime Prevention Program, the green house tour, North
Broward Luncheon, Parks & Recreation Sports Awards Banquet Recognition, the Child
Abuse Awareness Program recognizing the month of April as Child Abuse Awareness
Month and the Charter Review Board Meeting. As a result of her attending the Charter
Review Board Meeting last week, the Charter Review Board set a public hearing
regarding a particular issue on the agenda and she wasn't sure whether that was within
the code to do so; therefore, she submitted a written request to the City Attorney to
provide a legal opinion based on the code of ordinances. She requested that the City
Attorney provide the entire Commission with a copy of her legal opinion.
Commissioner Johnson reported that she is working with the University of Miami for a
mobile vehicle for school aged children to receive immunizations at no cost and Miami-
Dade College to bring a nutritional class on Fridays at no cost to the city which would be
a joint effort with the Opa-Steppers. She provided the City Clerk with a flyer for Habitat
for Humanity for those interested in purchasing a home at an affordable amount.
She continued by saying she was appointed as a volunteer judge for Miami-Dade County.
Additionally, she is working with a company named Business Link which is a part of
Florida Atlantic University to make sure businesses have a resource for strategic
planning, marketing and financial management.
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes—April 08,2009 16
After receiving several telephone calls from seniors inquiring about computer classes, she
is working on that and will forward,the information to the City Manager. She mentioned
that the luncheon with Legal Aid for the seniors is on May 14, 2009 and she wants it
publicized in advance and not at the last minute.
Manager Finnie stated that the organization referred to him is having the luncheon for
specific individuals and he will follow up with Commissioner Johnson on this matter.
Commissioner Johnson expressed her gratitude for everyone who showed their concern
during her time of bereavement.
Mayor Kelley reported that he is continuously working on bringing workshops for small
businesses. He thanked those who participate in the monthly prayers throughout the city
the first Wednesday of every month.
20. OFFICIAL BOARD APPOINTMENTS:
There were none.
21. ADJOURNMENT:
There being no further business to come before the City Commission, it was moved by
Commissioner Johnson, seconded by Vice Mayor Taylor to adjourn the meeting at 9:10
p.m.
NITEST: Ilia.
MA OR
CITY CLERK
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes—April 08,2009 17