HomeMy Public PortalAbout05- May 13, 2009 Meeting Minutes CITY OF OPA-LOCKA
"The Great City"
Clerk's Action Summary Minutes
Regular Commission Meeting
May 13,2009
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 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, March
13, 2009 in the City Commissioner Chambers, 777 Sharazad Boulevard, Opa-locka,
Florida.
2. ROLL CALL:
The following members of the City Commission were present: Commissioner Dorothy
Johnson, Commissioner Timothy Holmes, Vice Mayor Myra L. Taylor 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 7:03 p.m.
3. INVOCATION:
The Invocation was delivered was Mayor Joseph L. Kelley.
4. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE:
The Pledge of Allegiance was recited in unison.
Attorney/Client Session
Pursuant to Florida Statutes, Section 286.011(8), an attorney-client session was held to
consider settlement negotiations in the following case: Nikeya Hill & Natalie Buissereth
v. City of Opa-locka, Florida, Case No. 09-CV-20662-Gold-McAliley, United States
District Court case for the Southern District of Florida. In attendance were Mayor Joseph
L. Kelley, Vice Mayor Myra L. Taylor, Commissioner Dorothy Johnson, Commissioner
Timothy Holmes, Commissioner Rose Tydus; Bryan K. Finnie, Interim City Manager;
Burnadette Norris-Weeks, City Attorney; Valerie Kiffin-Lewis, Assistant City Attorney
and Court Reporting Services. The attorney-client session was closed to the general
public.
The meeting adjourned 7:05 p.m. for the attorney-client session.
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes—May 13,2009 1
Upon conclusion of the attorney-client session, the Regular Commission Meeting of May
13, 2009 reconvened at 7:30 p.m.
5. APPROVAL OF AGENDA:
6. APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA AND PULL LIST (deferrals and
deletions):
Vice Mayor Taylor pulled agenda item 15-1 and Commissioner Holmes pulled agenda
item 15-3 from the Consent Agenda.
It was moved by Commissioner Johnson, seconded by Vice Mayor Taylor to approve the
agenda, consent agenda and pull list.
There being no discussion, the motion passed by a 4-0 vote.
Commissioner Johnson Yes
Commissioner Tydus Yes
Vice Mayor Taylor Yes
Commissioner Holmes Yes
Mayor Kelley Yes
7. AWARDS/PROCLAMATIONS/ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS:
There were none.
8. APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
Regular Commission Meeting—April 22, 2009
It was moved by Commissioner Johnson, seconded by Vice Mayor Taylor to approve the
minutes of the Regular Commission Meeting of April 22, 2009.
Commissioner Tydus Yes
Vice Mayor Taylor Yes
Commissioner Holmes Yes
Commissioner Johnson Yes
Mayor Kelley Yes
9. DISTRICT ONE - COUNTY COMMISSIONER REPORT:
Marc Brown, Assistant to District 1 Miami-Dade County Commissioner Barbara Jordan
came forward and introduced Bonnye Deese of the Opa-locka CDC.
Bonnye Deese, Project Manager for the Miami-Dade Opa-locka Rehabilitation Project
came forward for a slide show presentation on the rehabilitation homes completed in
Opa-locka and provided an update on the remaining projects.
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes—May 13,2009 2
Commissioner Johnson expressed her concerns regarding environmental hazards in the
homes.
Mrs. Deese reassured the Commission that the environmental hazards are being
addressed.
Vice Mayor Taylor questioned Mrs. Deese regarding accommodation for the residents
whose homes are undergoing major rehabilitation and couldn't remain in the house under
those circumstances?
Mrs. Deese advised that all of the residents were able to remain in their homes during the
rehabilitation process; however, if required, the contractor would relocate the residents.
10. PUBLIC PRESENTATION:
1. John Cook
re: welfare of the City
(Prior to approaching the podium, Mr. Cook provided the City Clerk with copies of the
police report and a photo of the vehicle involved in the accident for distribution to the
Commission) John Cook of 14580 NW 27th Avenue, Opa-locka, Florida appeared before
the City Commission and expressed his concerns relating to the number of errors by the
police officer responding to emergency call when he was hit by a vehicle while crossing
the street. He stated that although neither he nor any of the witnesses on the scene were
interviewed, the case was later closed.
Manager Finnie informed the Commission that he is aware of the information Mr. Cook
has provided and he has launched an investigation re-opening the case.
Commissioner Johnson felt because she had previously brought this incident to the City
Manager's attention that the Commission should already have an answer.
Manager Finnie said the investigation was not complete because the Opa-locka Police
Department is still in the process of interviewing witnesses identified; however, he would
provide the Commission with an answer as to when the investigation would be complete
by Thursday, May 14, 2009.
2. Fritz Javel
Price Right Communications
re: Lifeline Home Phone Service
Fritz Javel of Price Right Communications, 855 Carter Lane, Pensecola, Florida,
appeared before the City Commission to provide information on the Lifeline Home
Phone Service program available to the citizens of Opa-locka.
3. Rev. Abraham Thomas of 17320 NW 17th Avenue, Miami Gardens, Florida
appeared before the City Commission and stated that after meeting with Miami Crime
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes—May 13,2009 3
Stoppers, he was asked to assist them in coming up with a song to get people to talk when
witnessing crimes. As a result, the song has graduated into an album project of positive
music that motivates people. He further requested donations towards the Crime Stoppers
Music Project.
10a. CITIZENS' FORUM:
1. Laura M. Bentley of 1257 Kasim Street, Opa-locka, Florida, came forward to
commend and thank the City of Opa-locka for the police presence in her neighborhood
since she rarely sees a police officer in that neighborhood. She further requested that the
city continue with the police presence in that neighborhood.
2. Steven Barrett of 633 Sharar Avenue, Opa-locka, Florida appeared before the
Commission to speak about the report relating to pension issues passed by ordinance as
reported by the City Attorney at the April 22, 2009 meeting. He said he is sure the
attorney will do a good job and make sure everybody turns their money back in.
11. ACTION ITEMS (items from consent agenda pull list):
15.1: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF OPA-
LOCKA, FLORIDA, DIRECTING THE CITY MANAGER TO INSTITUTE A HIRING
FREEZE FOR CITY STAFF EFFECTIVE , 2009. Sponsored by J.K.
The above resolution was read by title by Attorney Weeks.
It was moved by Commissioner Johnson, seconded by Vice Mayor Taylor to pass the
above resolution.
Vice Mayor Taylor asked for clarification on the resolution.
Being the sponsor of the resolution, Mayor Kelley said in looking at the information as
presented, even in the amended budget document submitted by the City Manager via
Finance, the city's revenues are declining. Based on that, the city must take a position to
institute a hiring freeze except those deemed necessary by the City Manager which is
provided in the resolution. He further stated that he would like for the freeze to become
effective June 1, 2009 because the vacant positions currently out would be closed and/or
filled by that date.
Manager Finnie respectfully asked to have the authority to have flexibility when dealing
with the police officers as well as certain positions that come to mind which would save
the city money in the long run. Having the flexibility to hire police officers according to
the budget and fill positions that make sense economically for the city (i.e. cost savings)
he would feel comfortable with Mayor Kelley's recommendation.
Based on the city's declining revenue, Mayor Kelley stated his intention with the
resolution was not to impact police but those other positions being created that will save
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes—May 13,2009 4
money. He continued by expressing his concerns relating to hiring individuals with the
intent of saving over a long period of time and whether that really has the same impact.
Vice Mayor Taylor informed Mayor Kelley that the resolution doesn't say "except public
safety" therefore it would include everyone. Additionally, she asked for the effective date
and how long would the hiring freeze remain in place.
Mayor Kelley stated the hiring freeze would be effective June 1, 2009 until the new
budget is completed. In looking at the city's hiring, all positions posted for hiring has
either closed or is about to close with the exception of police. But the City Manager is
now saying he has a couple of positions he wants to fill.
Manager Finnie said that the city is now procuring a property room manager, once the
property room manager position is filled, the certified police officer that's in the room
could be put to work on the streets. There are a number of issues he is trying to work
through that may not just be economical but he would love to have a discussion.
Although he understood and supported the concept that the city's revenues are declining
they must be prepared for a rainy day.
In view of the resolution, Vice Mayor Taylor asked the City Manager what is it that he
wants to do.
Manager Finnie requested that he be allowed to sit with the Commission and bring back a
modified resolution at the next meeting.
Commissioner Holmes was of the opinion that the resolution should have been brought
forth in January because since then the City Manager has already hired over 15 people.
Mayor Kelley said he couldn't have sponsored the resolution in January because the city
didn't have the declining revenue projections back then. At this point, the city must put a
hold on hiring with the exception of police/public safety. He said if the Commission is
not comfortable with the language in terms of giving him flexibility, he'd be willing to
wait one meeting no longer. But in the midst of it, he doesn't expect to see 20 people
hired between now and the next meeting.
He reiterated that he could hold off on the resolution for one meeting if 20 people don't
get hired in between except for police officers.
Manager Finnie indicated that he understood the direction and was comfortable with it.
Commissioner Johnson requested that the City Manager provide a written strategy to the
Commission to address the overtime in Community Development, Police Department,
etc.
Manager Finnie stated that there is an overall strategy. As it relates to the property room,
if the city hires a civilian in the property room, the city now has another police officer on
the streets allowing for cutting back on overtime.
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes—May 13,2009 5
Commissioner Johnson expressed her concerns relating to overtime in the Community
Development Department and the cost savings in Risk Management which was put into
the Water& Sewer line but she would had preferred it in the police department budget.
Outside of Public Safety, Commissioner Tydus asked, how many unfilled budgeted
positions does the city have?
Sharlene Boyd, Human Resources Director came forward and stated that there are three
open budgeted positions already posted; Administrative Assistant in the Public Works
Department, Crossing Guard and the Police Property Specialist.
Commissioner Tydus stated to the Mayor that there are only three open positions to be
filled and not twenty.
Mayor Kelley stated to the Commission that his concern is hiring at this point whether
the positions are budgeted or created. If the position is created, there needs to be a
strategy where it's going to save money because he doesn't want to see the city hiring
even if it is budgeted.
He continued by saying that he is willing to wait one meeting to allow the City Manager
to develop his strategy but he wants to be clear that he doesn't want the city hiring 20
individuals before the resolution for the hiring freeze is passed.
The motion and seconded on the above resolution were withdrawn and the resolution was
deferred to the Regular Commission Meeting on May 27, 2009.
3. A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF OPA-
LOCKA, FLORIDA, AUTHORIZING THE CREATION OF A MEMORIAL GARDEN
FOR DECEASED EMPLOYEES OF THE CITY OF OPA-LOCKA TO BEGIN WITH
THE YEAR 2008 AND GOING FORWARD. Sponsored by D.J.
The above resolution was read by title by Attorney Weeks.
It was moved by Commissioner Holmes, seconded by Commissioner Johnson to pass the
above resolution.
Commissioner Holmes asked whether the city had the funds for the memorial garden and
suggested that this be made a part of the Veterans Monument near City Hall.
Commissioner Johnson clarified that this resolution would be for a memorial walk path to
recognize deceased employees and she doesn't think there's a cost associated with this.
She stated that she wasn't aware of a designated area for the Veterans Monument.
Commissioner Holmes informed the Commission that the resolution talks about a
memorial garden not a walk.
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes—May 13,2009
Following brief discussion, both Mayor Kelley and Commissioner Johnson thought it was
best to incorporate the memorial walk for deceased employees with the Veterans
Monument. It was indicated that Starex Smith is the project manager of the Veterans
project and Commissioner Holmes suggested that the City Manager make sure Mr. Smith
oversees said project until it is complete.
Commissioner Johnson suggested that the resolution for the veteran's project is brought
back and that the memorial walk for the deceased employees be incorporated into it.
The motion and second on the above resolution were withdrawn.
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 AMENDING ORDINANCE 08-13, THE GENERAL FUND
BUDGET FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCING OCTOBER 1, 2008 AND
ENDING SPETEMBER 30, 2009, ADJUSTING REVENUES AND EXPENDITURES
AS SET FORTH AND ATTACHED IN EXHIBIT "A"; REFLECTING AN INCREASE
IN REVENUE SOURCES IN THE AMOUNT OF FOUR HUNDRED FORTY ONE
THOUSAND TWO HUNDRED AND SEVENTY SEVEN DOLLARS ($441,277.00);
PROVIDING FOR REPEAL OF ALL ORDINANCES IN CONFLICT; PROVIDING
FOR AN E141•bCTIVE DATE. Sponsored by C.M.
The above ordinance was ready by title by Attorney Weeks.
It was moved by Commissioner Johnson, seconded by Commissioner Tydus to pass the
above ordinance on first reading.
Vice Mayor Taylor expressed her concern relating to the ordinance wherein the verbiage
in the title states "reflecting an increase" and the second whereas reflects the verbiage
"reflect changes".
Attorney Weeks agreed to make the necessary change in the second whereas of the
ordinance to read "reflect an increase".
There being no further discussion, the motion passed by a 5-0 vote.
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes—May 13,2009 7
Commissioner Johnson Yes
Commissioner Tydus Yes
Vice Mayor Taylor Yes
Commissioner Holmes Yes
Mayor Kelley Yes
2. AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF OPA-
LOCKA, FLORIDA AMENDING ORDINANCE 08-14, THE PROPRIETARY AND
SPECIAL REVENUE FUNDS BUDGET FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCING
OCTOBER 1, 2008, AND ENDING SEPTEMBER 30, 2009, ADJUSTING REVENUES
AND EXPENDITURES AS SET FORTH AND ATTACHED IN EXHIBIT "A";
REFLECTING CHANGES IN REVENUE SOURCES AS FOLLOWS: CAPITAL
IMPROVEMENT DEBT SERVICE (FUND 230), NINETY THREE THOUSAND TWO
HUNDRED AND FORTY DOLLARS ($93,240.00); CAPITAL ACQUISITION (FUND
310), THREE HUNDRED AND FIFTY DOLLARS ($350.00); CAPITAL PROJECTS
(FUND 320), FOUR HUNDRED AND FIFTY THOUSAND DOLLARS ($450,000.00);
SOLID WASTE (FUND 410), FIFTEEN THOUSAND FIVE HUNDRED DOLLARS
($15,500.00); WATER AND SEWER (FUND 440), ONE HUNDRED AND FIFTY
THOUSAND DOLLARS ($150,000.00); SPECIAL LAW ENFORCEMENT (FUND
165), TWO THOUSAND ONE HUNDRED DOLLARS ($2,100.00); FEDERAL
EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT (FUND 169), ONE HUNDRED AND SIXTY
THOUSAND DOLLARS ($160,000.00); DJJ OPA-LOCKA YOUTH ACADEMY
(FUND 171), ONE HUNDRED AND EIGHTY THOUSAND THREE HUNDRED AND
NINETEEN DOLLARS ($180,319.00); CRIME PREVENTION (FUND 172), THIRTY
FIVE THOUSAND DOLLARS ($35,000.00); PEOPLES TRANSPORTATION TAX
(FUND 176), SEVEN HUNDRED FOUR THOUSAND THREE HUNDRED EIGHTY
TWO DOLLARS ($704,382.00); PROVIDING FOR REPEAL OF ALL ORDINANCES
IN CONFLICT; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. Sponsored by C.M.
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.
As it relates to the Water & Sewer (Fund 440) in the amendment document,
Commissioner Johnson said that she didn't see the increase of the savings from risk
management in the amount of One Hundred Thousand Dollars ($100,000.00).
Ezekiel Orji, Finance Director for the City of Opa-locka came forward and said the line
item for insurance is in the general fund. The City Attorney's line item is in the general
fund.
There being no further discussion, the motion passed by a 5-0 vote.
Commissioner Tydus Yes
Vice Mayor Taylor Yes
Commissioner Holmes Yes
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes—May 13,2009 8
Conunissioner Johnson Yes
Mayor Kelley Yes
B. SECOND READING/PUBLIC HEARING:
1. AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF OPA-
LOCKA, FLORIDA; AMENDING CHAPTER 2, SECTION 2-44 OF THE OPA-
LOCKA CODE OF ORDINANCES ENTITLED "SPECIAL MEETINGS" BY
AMENDING PROVISIONS RELATED TO POSTING NOTICE FOR SPECIAL
MEETINGS OF THE CITY COMMISSION; PROVIDING FOR INCORPORATION
OF RECITALS; PROVIDING FOR CONFLICT AND REPEALER; PROVIDING FOR
SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE (first reading held on
April 22, 2009). Sponsored by C.A.
The above ordinance was read by title by Attorney Weeks.
Mayor Kelley opened the floor for a public hearing. There being no persons to speak on
behalf of the public hearing, the public hearing was closed.
It was moved by Commissioner Johnson, seconded by Vice Mayor Taylor to pass the
above ordinance.
Commissioner Holmes stated that all items amending the Charter must go before the
Charter Review Board; therefore, he will not be supporting the ordinance.
There being no further discussion, the motion passed by a 4-1 vote.
Vice Mayor Taylor Yes
Commissioner Holmes No
Commissioner Johnson Yes
Commissioner Tydus Yes
Mayor Kelley Yes
C. RESOLUTION(S):
15. ADMINISTRATION:
CONSENT AGENDA:
2. A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF OPA-
LOCKA, FLORIDA, EXPRESSING SUPPORT FOR THE MEMBERSHIP DRIVE OF
THE MIAMI-DADE BRANCH OF THE NATIONAL ASSOCIATION FOR THE
ADVANCEMENT OF COLORED PEOPLE (NAACP) AND ENCOURAGING ALL
RESIDENTS OF THE CITY OF OPA-LOCKA TO SUPPORT SAID DRIVE.
Sponsored by M.T.
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes—May 13,2009 9
4. A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF OPA-
LOCKA, FLORIDA, ACCEPTING THE EMERGENCY QUOTE FROM REPLAY
SYSTEMS, INC., FOR THE PURCHASE AND INSTALLATION OF A POLICE
DISPATCH VOICE RECORDING SYSTEM FOR THE OPA-LOCKA POLICE
DEPARTMENT AT A COST OF SEVEN THOUSAND NINE HUNDRED NINETY-
ONE DOLLARS ($7,991.00); FURTHER AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO
EXPEND FUNDS IN THE SAME AMOUNT TO REPLAY SYSTEMS, INC., FOR
THE PURCHASE AND INSTALLATION OF A POLICE DISPATCH VOICE
RECORDING SYSTEM FOR THE OPA-LOCKA POLICE DEPARTMENT,
PAYABLE FROM ACCOUNT 21-521643. Sponsored by C.M.
5. A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF OPA-
LOCKA, FLORIDA, AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO ISSUE AN
INVITATION FOR BID (1H3) FOR PURCHASE AND INSTALLATION OF LAPTOP
COMPUTER MOUNTING CONSOLES FOR EXISTING MARKED POLICE
VEHICLES. Sponsored by C.M.
6. A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF OPA-
LOCKA, FLORIDA, AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXPEND FUNDS
IN THE AMOUNT OF EIGHT THOUSAND SEVEN HUNDRED DOLLARS
($8,700.00) FOR THE PURCHASE OF ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT FOR THE CITY
OF OPA-LOCKA CRIME PREVENTION PROGRAM, PAYABLE FROM ACCOUNT
74-529520. Sponsored by C.M.
7. A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF OPA-
LOCKA, FLORIDA, PIGGYBACKING BID AWARD NO. 103-FFO4 BETWEEN THE
SCHOOL BOARD OF MIAMI-DADE COUNTY AND SPRINT SOLUTIONS, INC.,
FOR CELLULAR VOICE AND DATA EQUIPMENT AND SERVICE, AND
AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXPEND FUNDS IN THE MONTHLY
AMOUNT OF SEVEN THOUSAND SIX HUNDRED EIGHTY TWO DOLLARS AND
THREE CENTS ($7,682.03) FOR CELLULAR VOICE AND DATE EQUIPMENT
AND SERVICE, PAYABLE FROM ACCOUNT NO. 19-519411. Sponsored by C.M.
8. A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF OPA-
LOCKA, FLORIDA, RECOGNIZING MAY 18 — 22, 2009 AS "NATIONAL PUBLIC
WORKS AND PUBLIC SERVICE RECOGNITION WEEK" IN THE CITY OF OPA-
LOCKA. Sponsored by C.M.
The above consent agenda items were read by title by Attorney Weeks.
It was moved by Commissioner Johnson, seconded by Vice Mayor Taylor to pass the
consent agenda resolutions.
The motion passed by a 5-0 vote.
Commissioner Holmes Yes
Commissioner Tydus Yes
Commissioner Johnson Yes
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes—May 13,2009 10
Vice Mayor Taylor Yes
Mayor Kelley Yes
A. CITY MANAGER'S REPORT:
Manager Finnie reported that the Human Resources, Finance, IT Department,
Community Development and Code Enforcement are positioned in terms of those
departments evolving and working aggressively towards the strategic plan. Over the next
few months he would focus on the Police Department and Parks &Recreation.
He announced that the City of Opa-locka would accept applications for the Summer
Youth Program on Saturday, May 16, 2009 at 8:00 a.m. in the Municipal Complex at
Town Center, 2"d Floor. He provided detailed information on the qualifications,
compensation rate, work hours, etc.
Lastly, he provided an overview of the tabbed items in the booklet provided to all
members of the Commission. They were presented as follows:
Tab 1 Commission Meetings Action List — Responses/Results for the following
meetings: April 22, 2009, April 8, 2009, March 25, 2009 and March 11,
2009
Tab 2 Historical Community Redevelopment Area (CRA) Information
Tab 3 Finance Department—Amended Operating Budget Fiscal Year 2009
Tab 4 Finance Department Reports
Tab 5 Stormwater Drainage Cleaning Schedule
Tab 6 Timeline for Demolition of Water Plant
Tab 7 Park and Recreation — Seniors on the Move Program Calender; May 2009
and Flag Football Registration Form
Tab 8 City of Opa-locka—In the News
Tab 9 Upcoming City Events 2009
Commissioner Johnson requested that the City Manager follow up on the complaint sent
to the Commission regarding the Opa-locka Police Department and the priority list for
the Strategic Plan.
Manager Finnie said he would be providing the information for the Strategic Plan on
Friday, May 15, 2009; however, there is a staff strategic plan review scheduled for June
5, 2009.
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes—May 13,2009 11
Commissioner Johnson expressed her concerns regarding the watering of the newly
planted trees which is obviously not taking place. Also, she received a complaint about a
tree knocked down and that tree must be picked up. She said she would no longer support
the Go Green Initiative because she doesn't think the city is serious about it; otherwise,
all departments would have recycle containers.
Manager Finnie said he would provide Commissioner Johnson with the watering
schedule.
As it relates to the continued cost of the IT Department, Commissioner Johnson said she
is concerned about the equipment being purchased and where it is going. Additionally,
the city recently switched from Nextel to Verizon and once again from Verizon to Sprint.
She asked, what is the reason for the constant change in equipment?
Manager Finnie advised that the reason for the change in service providers is because of
the cost savings to the city.
Commissioner Johnson requested to be provided with the cost savings as a result of the
switch in cellular and data service providers during the budget process.
Due to the increasing number of complaints regarding high water bills, Commissioner
Holmes requested that the city research to find out what is the cause for these complaints
because there have been far too many residents complaining about the same thing. He
requested that the City Manager continue working on finding a way to lower water costs
to the citizens and look into the feasibility of Miami-Dade County taking over the city's
utility/water operation.
He continued by requesting to be provided with the future plans for the Old Water Plant
and making sure the residents are aware of the city's intentions.
He further asked to be provided with an update as it relates to the previous complaint
from residents regarding the parking issue on Curtiss Drive.
As it relates to the ordinance on loud music in residential areas, Commissioner Holmes
suggested that the city look into changing the ordinance to limit the noise in residential
areas.
Commissioner Johnson requested that the City Manager look into the warnings issued by
Code Enforcement for lawn maintenance because the pictures don't reflect overgrown
lawns as stated in the warning.
With regards to the loud music Commissioner Holmes mentioned, Mayor Kelley advised
that there is something on the books in terms of addressing that. He always had concerns
about how the city issues those permits because the main concern is that all those kinds of
permits come through the City Manager's Office via the Opa-locka Police Department
and whoever is involved in that process should make sure that information pertaining to
the gathering is documented and the patrolling officer on duty should be made aware. As
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes—May 13,2009 12
it relates to the utility bill, he suggested that the city look into having a system in place
that automatically notifies the city of high utility bills that are out of the normal.
B. ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:
The City Commission instructed the city to pay its bills.
16. OFFICIAL BOARD REPORTS:
Commissioner Tydus briefly addressed and responded to an issue regarding the Charter
Review Board and an advertisement for a public hearing.
She asked the City Clerk if the public hearing notice was rescinded as requested.
Clerk Irby stated that a notice was placed in the newspaper stating that the public hearing
was cancelled.
Commissioner Tydus requested a copy of the advertisement.
17. CITY ATTORNEY'S REPORT:
Commissioner Johnson asked, was the $100,000.00 cost savings something the City
Attorney initiated?
Attorney Weeks replied, no, she didn't take part in that discussion.
Commissioner Holmes stated to the City Attorney anytime there's a change in the
Charter for the Commission to vote on, it must go before the Charter Review Board.
Attorney Weeks stated for the record no changes to the Charter have come before the
Commission for consideration.
18. CITY CLERK'S REPORT:
Clerk Irby read into the record a "thank you" card sent from the Bullard family to the
Commission and city staff expressing their gratitude for a professional performance
during the funeral of their loved one.
Vice Mayor Taylor requested that the City Clerk keep the Commission updated on the
2010 Census.
19. MAYOR/COMMISSION REPORT:
Commissioner Johnson reported on the F1U Casa Blanca Housing for Domestic Violence,
Pearls program and her trip to Chicago and Wisconsin to discuss Youth Prevention
Programs.
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes—May 13,2009 13
Vice Mayor Taylor reported on her attendance at the City of Miami Gardens State of the
City Address.
Commissioner Holmes thanked the city staff for their assistance with the complaints
regarding high water bills.
Mayor Kelley reported on his attendance at several streetnaming ceremonies in the city,
National Day of Prayer activities, Miami-Dade League of Cities Meeting and Mayor
Shirley Gibson's State of the City Address. He stated that he met with FIU School of
Medicine on some initiatives they're working with coming into the community which
would be good to tie in to the CET program.
Commissioner Tydus reported that she had the honor and privilege to represent the city
on May 9, 2009 as the Keynote Speaker at a Mother's Day Brunch at the City of Miami.
She further announced that Rays of Fortitude, a lupus awareness and education initiative,
is having their annual benefit dinner on Sunday, May 17, 2009 at 5:00 p.m. at Don
Shula's Hotel in Miami Lakes.
20. OFFICIAL BOARD APPOINTMENTS:
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 9:19
p.m. �r
• • '
ATTEST:
•
CI" YCLERK
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes—May 13,2009 14