HomeMy Public PortalAbout02- February 24, 2010 Meeting Minutes CITY OF OPA-LOCKA
"The Great City"
CLERK'S ACTION SUMMARY MINUTES
REGULAR COMMISSION MEETING
FEBRUARY 24, 2010
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, February
24, 2010 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 Dorothy
Johnson, Vice Mayor Myra L. Taylor, Commissioner Rose Tydus, Commissioner
Timothy Holmes and Mayor Joseph L. Kelley. Also in attendance were: City Manager
Clarance Patterson, Interim City Attorney Joseph S. Geller and City Clerk Deborah S.
Irby.
3. INVOCATION:
The Invocation was delivered by Mayor Joseph L. Kelley.
4. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE:
The Pledge of Allegiance was recited in unison.
5. APPROVAL OF AGENDA:
Clerk Irby advised that a request was made to amend the agenda to include the following
resolutions under item 12 (new items):
12-1: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF OPA-
LOCKA, FLORIDA, TO AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO SIGN
AMENDMENT ONE EXTENDING THE AGREEMENT BETWEEN MIAMI-
DADE COUNTY AND THE CITY OF OPA-LOCKA FOR A
REIMBURSEABLE GRANT CDBG AWARD IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO
EXCEED TWO HUNDRED THOUSAND DOLLARS ($200,000.00) FOR THE
CONSTRUCTION OF SEGAL PARK DRAINAGE AND SITE
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes—02/24/2010 1
IMPROVEMENTS IN A FORM ACCEPTABLE TO THE CITY ATTORNEY.
Sponsored by C.M.
It was moved by Commissioner Johnson, seconded by Commissioner Holmes to amend
the agenda to include the above resolution as item 12-1.
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
12-2: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF OPA-
LOCKA, FLORIDA, AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO ENTER
INTO AN AGREEMENT WITH SUNGARD PENTAMATION TO UPGRADE
THE FINANCE PLUS AND COMMUNITY PLUS SOFTWARE, ACQUIRE
ADDITIONAL SOFTWARE AND PROVIDE FOR TRAINING AT A COST
OF $23,940.00 PAYABLE FROM ACCOUNT # 19-519541 AND ACCOUNT #
14-512528; PROVIDING FOR INCORPORATION OF RECITALS;
PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. Sponsored by C.M.
It was moved by Commissioner Johnson, seconded by Commissioner Holmes to amend
the agenda to include the above resolution as item 12-2.
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
12-3: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF OPA-
LOCKA, FLORIDA, TO DIRECT AND AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO
OBTAIN AN INDEPENDENT OUTSIDE AUDIT OF THE HUMAN RESOURCES
DEPARTMENT; PROVIDING FOR RECITALS; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE
DATE. Sponsored by D.J.
It was moved by Commissioner Johnson, seconded by Commissioner Holmes to amend
the agenda to include the above resolution as item 12-3.
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes—02/24/2010 2
There being no discussion, the motion passed by a 5-0 vote.
Commissioner Holmes Yes
Commissioner Johnson Yes
Commissioner Tydus Yes
Vice Mayor Taylor Yes
Mayor Kelley Yes
6. APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA AND PULL LIST (deferrals and
deletions):
7. AWARDS/PROCLAMATIONS/ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS:
The Mayor along with the City Commission presented a commendation and plague to
Mrs. Olive Jones for her dedication and commitment in assisting the homeless during the
cold spell. Additionally, a plague of appreciation was presented to Scott Miller of the
Opa-locka/ Hialeah Flea Market and Commissioner Barbara Jordan for their support and
dedication to the quality of life of Opa-locka residents.
8. APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
Regular Commission Meeting—February 10, 2010
It was moved by Commissioner Johnson, seconded by Commissioner Holmes to approve
the minutes of the Regular Commission Meeting of February 10, 2010.
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:
Larry Gardner, Community Liaison, Miami-Dade County Commissioner Barbara Jordan,
District 1 came forward and briefly introduced Corey Jones of the Miami-Dade County
Community Action Agency (CAA).
Corey Jones of the Miami-Dade County Community Action Agency (CAA) and project
manager for the Miami-Dade County / Opa-locka Beautification Program appeared
before the City Commission and provided a brief overview of the program, in addition to
an update. Due to the lack of participation from Opa-locka residents, he stated that the
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes—02/24/2010 3
CAA is committed to working with the City of Opa-locka to increase participation in the
beautification project.
Commissioner Johnson expressed her concerns with several citizens signing up with the
program and the program with the Opa-locka Community Development Corporation
(CDC) is not moving. She requested that Mr. Jones provide a report on the status of those
who have applied for the program.
Mr. Jones informed Commissioner Johnson that the program she is referring to is with
the Opa-locka CDC; however, he is with the beautification project that does the exterior
and landscaping; he has nothing to do with what's taking place with the Opa-locka CDC
in terms of the home rehabilitation program. However, to that extent, he has reached out
to the Opa-locka CDC to forward information on any seniors on their list who meet the
criteria for the CAA program that assists seniors with home rehabilitation.
Commissioner Johnson requested that Mr. Jones work on additional marketing of the
program because there are seniors that need assistance.
Vice Mayor Taylor asked for clarification on the programs available through
Commissioner Jordan's Office.
Mr. Gardner stated that there are two components to the program; one being the
beautification and the other rehabilitation. At this time, the rehab portion is on hold due
to legal issues.
Vice Mayor Taylor stated that perhaps there's a delay in the beautification program
because what the residents need is not so much outside but inside.
Mr. Jones explained that when the program was initially implemented through
Commissioner Jordan, the purpose was to have the program provide a dual function of
having the interior addressed. While the interior was being addressed, another program
would come in and address the exterior providing the homeowner with a complete
makeover. However, due to legal issues with the interior portion of the program, he kept
moving forward with the exterior. At this time, they have run into the problem where
clients aren't even applying to have the exterior done.
With regards to the beautification program, Vice Mayor Taylor stated that a concern she
heard was in terms of how the new grass would be watered.
Mr. Jones said he shared with the homeowners that when they received their utility bills,
they could then go to Community Action Agency and apply for a one-time water bill
assistance.
Mayor Kelley stated that he would get with the City Manager to assist in getting the word
out in terms of the beautification program.
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes—02/24/2010 4
Mr. Gardner informed the Commission of a recent meeting regarding the rehabilitation
program and that program would soon continue.
Commissioner Johnson requested that Commissioner Jordan provide the city with
technical support in the city's bidding process and procurement, if possible.
10. PUBLIC PRESENTATION:
1. Steven Barrett
re: Welfare of the City
Steven Barrett of 633 Sharar Avenue, Opa-locka, Florida, appeared before the City
Commission to express his concerns relating to the lack of maintenance and upkeep of
certain properties in the downtown area which creates an eyesore to the area.
2. Alvin Burke
re: Welfare of the City
Alvin Burke of 540 Sharar Avenue, Opa-locka, Florida, appeared before the City
Commission to voice his concern relating to random drug testing for board members.
Since the city has money for drug testing, he suggested that they start showing
appreciation to its board members again.
10a. CITIZENS' FORUM:
1. Steven Barrett of 633 Sharar Avenue, Opa-locka, Florida, came forward and made
reference to a discussion at the last commission about the city's newsletter and certain
individuals from the Commission whose picture was not included. He suggested that the
city utilize the newsletter to list opportunities that will help the people.
He continued by saying that as a current board member, he doesn't have a problem with
the drug testing; however, he is in agreement that the city needs to start having the
appreciation banquet that was once held for all city board members.
He further stated that he would like to know when the city will start to work on sidewalks
for Sharar Avenue.
Prior to the current City Manager's time, Mayor Kelley stated that the Public Works
Department was suppose to be working on a comprehensive plan to identify sidewalks by
breaking it down into sections to seek funding. Part of that was to look at some of the
areas in the back that didn't have power lines, etc. to concrete those and make it easier.
He directed the City Manager to follow up on this item.
2. Alvin Burke of 540 Sharar Avenue, Opa-locka, Florida, came before the City
Commission and stated that he too is looking for those sidewalks on Sharar Avenue.
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes—02/24/2010 5
Mayor Kelley stated that what has occurred is when people see the improvements then
everybody wants them. Although that's a good thing, the city has to find the resources to
get those projects done.
11. ACTION ITEMS (items from consent agenda pull list):
12. NEW ITEMS:
1. A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF
OPA-LOCKA, FLORIDA, TO AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO SIGN
AMENDMENT ONE EXTENDING THE AGREEMENT BETWEEN MIAMI-
DADE COUNTY AND THE CITY OF OPA-LOCKA FOR A
REIMBURSEABLE GRANT CDBG AWARD IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO
EXCEED TWO HUNDRED THOUSAND DOLLARS ($200,000.00) FOR THE
CONSTRUCTION OF SEGAL PARK DRAINAGE AND SITE
IMPROVEMENTS IN A FORM ACCEPTABLE TO THE CITY ATTORNEY.
Sponsored by C.M.
The above resolution was read by title by Attorney Geller.
It was moved by Commissioner Holmes, seconded by Commissioner Johnson to pass the
above resolution.
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. A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF
OPA-LOCKA, FLORIDA, AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO
ENTER INTO AN AGREEMENT WITH SUNGARD PENTAMATION TO
UPGRADE THE FINANCE PLUS AND COMMUNITY PLUS SOFTWARE,
ACQUIRE ADDITIONAL SOFTWARE AND PROVIDE FOR TRAINING AT
A COST OF $23,940.00 PAYABLE FROM ACCOUNT # 19-519541 AND
ACCOUNT # 14-512528; PROVIDING FOR INCORPORATION OF
RECITALS; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. Sponsored by C.M.
The above resolution was read by title by Attorney Geller.
It was moved by Commissioner Holmes, seconded by Commissioner Johnson to pass the
above resolution.
There being no discussion, the motion passed by a 5-0 vote.
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes—02/24/2010
Vice Mayor Taylor Yes
Commissioner Holmes Yes
Commissioner Johnson Yes
Commissioner Tydus Yes
Mayor Kelley
12-3: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF OPA-
LOCKA, FLORIDA, TO DIRECT AND AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO
OBTAIN AN INDEPENDENT OUTSIDE AUDIT OF THE HUMAN RESOURCES
DEPARTMENT; PROVIDING FOR RECITALS; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE
DATE. Sponsored by D.J.
The above resolution was read by title by Attorney Geller.
It was moved by Commissioner Holmes, seconded by Commissioner Johnson to pass the
above resolution.
There being no discussion, the motion passed by a 5-0 vote.
Commissioner Holmes Yes
Commissioner Johnson Yes
Commissioner Tydus Yes
Vice Mayor Taylor Yes
Mayor Kelley Yes
13. PLANNING & ZONING:
A. HEARINGS:
B. APPEALS:
14. ORDINANCES/RESOLUTIONS/PUBLIC HEARING:
A. FIRST READING:
B. SECOND READING/PUBLIC HEARING:
1. AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF OPA-
LOCKA, FLORIDA, CREATING A NEW SECTION (ORDINANCE NO. 86-8,
ARTICLE 7, SECTION 7.5) ENTITLED TREE PROTECTION PROGRAM;
SPECIFYING INTENT; DESIGNATING AUTHORITY TO SUPERVISE; ENFORCE,
MODIFY AND SUPPLEMENT; PROVIDING DEFINITIONS; ESTABLISHING TREE
PLANTING STANDARDS; SPECIFYING TREE PRUNING STANDARDS;
PROVIDING TREE REMOVAL STANDARDS; PROHIBITING TREE ABUSE;
DESCRIBING PUBLIC PROPERTY PLANTING AND MAINTENANCE
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes—02/24/2010 7
STANDARDS; APPLICABILITY TO UTILITY COMPANIES; ESTABLISHING
EMERGENCY PROVISIONS; DESIGNATING ENFORCEMENT; PROVIDING FOR
CONFLICT; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY, REPEALER AND
CODIFICATION; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE (first reading held on
January 27, 2010). Sponsored by C.M.
The above ordinance was read by title by Attorney Geller.
Mayor Kelley opened the floor for a public hearing. There being no persons to speak on
the public hearing, the public hearing was closed.
It was moved by Commissioner Holmes, seconded by Commissioner Johnson to pass the
above ordinance.
Commissioner Johnson asked whether this ordinance was an enhancement to the previous
legislation adopted several years ago.
Manager Patterson explained that this ordinance would keep the city in line with being a
Tree City USA.
Commissioner Johnson said she would be looking for the "Tree City USA" signage
throughout the city.
There being no further 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
C. RESOLUTION(S):
15. ADMINISTRATION:
CONSENT AGENDA:
1. A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF OPA-
LOCKA, FLORIDA, AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO ENTER INTO AN
AGREEMENT WITH QUALITY WIRING FOR THE INSTALLATION OF TWENTY-
SIX (26) NETWORK CONNECTIONS, NETWORK CABINETS AND EQUIPMENT
IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED FOUR THOUSAND FOUR HUNDRED AND
FOUR DOLLARS AND EIGHTY EIGHT CENTS ($4,404.88); PROVIDING FOR
INCORPORATION OF RECITALS; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
Sponsored by C.M.
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes—02/24/2010 8
The above resolution was read by title by Attorney Geller.
It was moved by Commissioner Holmes, seconded by Commissioner Johnson to pass the
consent agenda resolution.
The motion passed by a 5-0 vote.
Commissioner Tydus Yes
Vice Mayor Taylor Yes
Commissioner Holmes Yes
Commissioner Johnson Yes
Mayor Kelley Yes
A. CITY MANAGER'S REPORT:
Manager Patterson introduced the city's new Human Resources Director and Deputy
Chief of Police.
Guithele Ruiz-Nicholas, Human Resources and Adam Burden, Deputy Chief of Police
for the City of Opa-locka came forward and briefly provided an overview of their past
work experience.
Manager Patterson reported to the Commission that due to delays, the Sherbondy Park
project was not on the agenda. He requested that the Mayor poll the Commission for a
Special Meeting due to the urgency of the Sherbondy Park Project. At the special
meeting, he would bring the contractors with the three lowest bids before the
Commission for a presentation and would then move forward.
Commissioner Johnson expressed her concerns with the amount of money and
individuals the city is allotting for car allowances because there are other departments
utilizing their vehicles for city business and not being reimbursed for the mileage.
Manager Patterson informed Commissioner Johnson that the report on car allowances is
in the packet provided to the Commission.
Commissioner Johnson stated that $7,200.00 for individual's car allowance is ludicrous
in this day and time with the economy being the way it is. In addition to that, she read the
accounts payable report provided and she is very concerned with the amount of money
being reimbursed to staff. She directed the City Manager to take a look at the
reimbursements.
She continued by commending staff from the City Manager's Office for the excellent job
on the Community Newspaper.
She further requested that the Neighborhood Watch Meetings be continued and everyone
must be notified via a calendar. In addition to that, she suggested that the format for the
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes—02/24/2010 9
meetings are revised because the city logo is not displayed. She directed the City
Manager to provide the Commission with a copy of the meeting minutes as a part of the
package.
Commissioner Johnson assumed that the city would be meeting with CSX.
Manager Patterson advised that a meeting was just held with CSX.
Commissioner Johnson directed the City Manager to provide the Commission with a
report on the meeting held with CSX.
Vice Mayor Taylor expressed her concern regarding add on items to the commission
agenda because add on items should be on an emergency basis. She asked, why aren't the
agenda items ready when the main agenda is prepared? In looking at the add on
resolutions, it looks as if the City Manager and/or staff had knowledge of the items all the
time and all of a sudden the item is an add on to the agenda.
Manager Patterson understood what Vice Mayor Taylor stated and said he would see that
those items make it on the agenda.
Commissioner Johnson asked, how many employees in the Police Department and at
Town Center are CPR certified? If the City Manager didn't know then perhaps he could
make sure there are CPR certified personnel for emergency purposes.
With regards to the city's municipal complex, she directed the City Manager to get with
the landlord to make sure the building is in ADA compliance. She said she would like to
see a handicap button at the entrance of the building to automatically open the door.
She continued by saying that several years ago the city adopted the "Go Green" and she
noticed that there aren't any recycle bins in the offices. Additionally, as the city is
looking at beautifying the downtown area, it is crucial to look at the city's own facilities
first.
As the city's continues it progress, she directed the City Manager to make sure those
items move forward.
Vice Mayor Taylor asked about the main door at Town Center One because she noticed
there are two doors but only one actually opens.
Commissioner Holmes and Commissioner Johnson both advised that one of the doors is
locked.
Manager Patterson stated that the entrance to Town Center One must be handicap
accessible.
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes—02/24/2010 10
Further Commissioner Holmes said that he has never had a problem getting in and out of
the building in his scooter; however, he agreed that some individuals may have a problem
with the door.
He continued by asking for an update in terms of the demolition of the water plant and
the approval from DERM.
In terms of the water plant, Mayor Kelley stated that he understood that the company had
a maximum of seven weeks to demolish the water plant. He asked, has the city heard
from the company in terms of the timeline?
Daniel Abia, Director of the Public Works/Building & License Departments came
forward and stated that the contractor had received DERM approval in addition to the
necessary permits to proceed with the demolition. The contractor is scheduled to start
work on February 26, 2010.
Mayor Kelley directed the City Manager to have staff make sure the contractor complies
with all requirements.
Although the City Manager didn't mention it under his report, Mayor Kelley stated that
the Commission did have the meet and greet with the trash/garbage haulers. He asked
that the City Manager elaborate on the delivery of the new garbage cans to the residents.
Previously it was mentioned that the information would be made available to the
residents; however, perhaps the City Manager could utilize the city's cable channel to get
the information out.
Manager Patterson advised that the information would be on the city's cable Channel 77
as well as on the city's utility bills. The vendor had began to deliver the garbage cans but
due to the rainy weather they had to stop and are scheduled to continue the following day.
B. ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:
Ezekiel Orji, Finance Director for the City of Opa-locka came forward and stated that the
City Commission has in their package the payroll register and the cash requirements to be
paid the following day. Additionally, the city is paying its bills as they become due.
In terms of the year end audit, he advised that the auditors had finished their work and the
city is on schedule to receive the audit.
Commissioner Johnson requested that the Commission is provided a report of whatever
bills are due between this meeting and the next meeting, with the name of the vendor,
amount of money owed and the account number. This is what she had asked for and
would like to receive at every commission meeting moving forward. However, the
information being provided is after the bills are already paid.
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes—02/24/2010 11
Mr. Orji explained the timing difference between when the Commission meets and when
the checks are paid. However, he would do the best he could to provide the information
requested.
Commissioner Johnson requested that the information is provided by the next meeting.
Mr. Orji stated that the bills to be paid on February 25, 2010 are in the Commission
packet.
16. OFFICIAL BOARD REPORTS:
17. CITY ATTORNEY'S REPORT:
Attorney Geller provided a report to the Commission on the recent news regarding the
red light cameras in which Judge Bagley, Miami-Dade County Circuit Court struck down
the Aventura Ordinance on red light cameras. The city is now in the process of finalizing
its red light documents to get it up and running; but the city will need to have an
additional agreement with the company to make sure if this is ultimately struck down that
the city is not left holding the bag for the portion of the money going to the company.
The concern is if this stands up, will the company be in a position where it would have to
refund all monies from all cities that they've been collecting then the city wants some
assurance that they have sufficient financial resources that it will not put them out of
business. Because the appeal may take some time, the city will continue going forward
with the existing plan provided that the company can assure, if it is ultimately struck
down, that they will refund their portion. The city should also consider whether it would
expend any of the monies collected or hold it in a reserve account.
As the City Manager and City Attorney work through this issue, Mayor Kelley suggested
that any funds collected are held in a reserve account and that those funds are not spent.
In addition to what the City Attorney just mentioned, he heard other arguments that it
may get reduced. The legislature has some bills pending that would have an impact on
this matter where the city would collect and the state would get a portion; but that would
be determined in the legislative process.
Attorney Geller stated that the second reading on the Drug Testing Ordinance is not
before the Commission because he met with Commissioner Johnson and she had some
very good suggestions. The ordinance is going to be revised and brought back before the
Commission at the next meeting with the revisions.
With regards to the request relating to enforcement, he spoke with the City Manager
about contractors needing permits and making sure they comply. He doesn't believe the
city needs additional legislation because it is an enforcement issue. The city is prepared
to crack down and the City Manager has staff out, and if someone is found not acting in
accordance with the law which requires pulling these permits, the city will take action.
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes—02/24/2010 12
He further stated that the city has obtained a hearing date in the GFM issue on their
motion to dismiss and he is moving forward on that. After preliminary discussions, they
will be looking at the possibility of mediation on both cases involving the Flea Market.
There's a case where the Flea Market is suing the city and a case where the city is suing
the Flea Market; however, one case has nothing to do with the other but the parties are
the same. The Flea Market is not willing particularly to compromise on what is owed to
the city; however, mediation is always involved with settlement and some compromise
does come out. As previously indicated, once he has a date for the mediation, he would
be scheduling an executive session on both of those issues to get guidance from the
Commission.
Attorney Geller mentioned to the Commission that he'd received a letter from an attorney
representing the former director of Planning, Alfonzo Tate who has a claim against the
city. He said he would look into the issue but as it stands he doesn't believe there's any
valid claim.
He continued to report that the city has been in touch with both unions and he had a
meeting scheduled with the AFSCME representatives; however, that meeting was
cancelled and will be rescheduled. Incidentally this goes back to the issue with the drug
testing because whatever the city does must be done with both unions in terms of the
contracts. With AFSCME, he said he believes the city is in a pretty good place to wrap it
up.
As it relates to the PBA issue, he reported that there was a very productive meeting and
the issue at this point is dollars. The city has told them what they would like to do and
recently received some numbers back from Finance as to what the cost would be. He
advised that he would likely need an executive session with the Commission to discuss
this issue because the dollars are significant.
Finally, he stated that he had been conducting an investigation into retirement life &
health benefits for retired commissioners. He said he'd spoke to the city's insurance
represented and they would be speaking further with the City Manager. He said he is
moving forward on this issue to look at what the cost would be and what kind of benefits
can be continued.
Vice Mayor Taylor asked, in the negotiations with the PBA, does the city negotiate
certain level of officers or across the board?
Attorney Geller stated that the principal concern raised with the PBA and they seemed
really to like was to raise minimum salary. The minimum salary is the number one
problem; but when the minimum salary is raised, the issue becomes if somebody has
been with the city for over one year then that individual can't be making the same as a
starting officer. Therefore, there needs to be some increment above the new minimum for
one year, two year and three year. The city is not looking at across the board at all
because if somebody is making $33,000.00 and somebody's making $68,000.00 the
difference if you take a percentage may not mean very much to those people at the
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes—02/24/2010 13
bottom run but it's a whole lot more for the people at the top. The theory that the City
Manager and the Chief has put out is that they want to make sure the good young officers
remain with the city.
Commissioner Johnson directed that the City Attorney get with her possibly on Monday,
March 1, 2010 or Tuesday, March 2, 2010 to wrap up the educational compact and have
it available to the Commission for review prior to the next regular commission meeting.
Attorney Geller stated that the revisions were completed and is ready to go. He said he
would provide the revised draft to Commissioner Johnson the following day.
Commissioner Johnson asked Attorney Geller whether he had the opportunity to get with
the former City Attorney regarding the charter revisions the Commission was working
on.
Attorney Geller said he did speak with the former City Attorney and she was going to try
to find what they had and forward it to him.
Commissioner Johnson informed Attorney Geller of another item the city was working
on which he may need to follow up dealing with the police officers who received a sign
on bonus and were to remain with the city for a certain time period but ended resigning
immediately. The city was looking for the opportunity to retrieve some of the monies.
She directed Attorney Geller to follow up with the former city attorney on this issue.
She continued by saying that she received many complaints relating to businesses who
are not in ADA compliance in terms of parking. The city must first be in compliance and
then make sure the businesses are in compliance in accordance with American with
Disabilities Act.
Lastly, she directed the City Attorney and the City Manager to find out the emergency
plan for emergencies at the Opa-locka Executive Airport.
Mayor Kelley directed the City Attorney in working with the City Manager to bring back
the work initiative program for residents to go after those liens and foreclosed properties
so that the money is recouped and put back in that line item to keep citizens working. In
addition to those properties identified as foreclosures, the city can attempt to obtain those
properties to rehabilitate and offer homeownership to citizens. He requested that Attorney
Geller provide a written update to the above items by the next meeting.
18. CITY CLERK'S REPORT:
Clerk Irby read a "thank you" note from Ms. Johnnie Mae Banks-Dawkins thanking
Mayor Joseph L. Kelley and the City of Opa-locka Police Department for the escort
services provided for her late husband Mr. Benjamin Dawkins, Jr.
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes—02/24/2010 14
Commissioner Johnson directed the City Clerk to get with the City Manager to make sure
each city department has a first aid kit.
Mayor Kelley commended the City Clerk and her staff for an excellent job done with the
Census in terms of the promotional activities.
19. MAYOR/COMMISSION REPORT:
Vice Mayor Taylor thanked Chief Cason for allowing the Security Protection Unit
consisting of Captain Galindo, Corporal Lazier and Major Barrett for their presentation to
the African American Council of Christian Clergy.
She continued by thanking Choice Environmental, Inc. for the trash can provided with
the help of the Public Works Department and for working to assist the seniors with their
trash cans.
Commissioner Johnson thanked staff in the Department of Parks & Recreation, Office of
Community Services, City Clerk's Office and the Media Department for their assistance
in the Youth Prevention Summit on February 20, 2010. As a result, the county has
extended an invitation to participate at the Teen Court Summit on May 11, 2010.
She continued by reporting that she was the keynote speaker on February 12, 2010 for the
graduation for Miami Job Corps and the speaker during Black History Month for the
Department of Homeland Security. In addition to that, she was asked by the University of
Miami Pediatric Mobile Unit to help promote the pediatric mobile unit which is an
opportunity for the residents to received free medical services. She directed the City
Clerk to assist in promoting the Pediatric Mobile Unit.
She further thanked Mayor Kelley for nominating her to the Miami-Dade County League
of Cities Board of Directors which is an opportunity for her to represent the city. Also,
she said she would work with the Office of Community Services (OCS) and CET on the
Neighborhood Watch to provide a suggestive format.
As a representative for District 1, Community Action Agency (CAA) Board of Directors,
Commissioner Johnson announced that applications are now available for Community
Based Organizations looking for free meals for their summer program.
Commissioner Tydus reported that she attended Commissioner Holmes birthday
celebration and Commissioner Johnson's Youth Violence Prevention Summit and out of
that she was asked by one of Miami-Dade County agencies to be a part of the Michelle
Obama Youth Obesity Program. Also, she attended the Miami-Dade County League of
Cities Installation Gala in which she was very proud to be a part of Opa-locka in that the
city is represented in the League very well by the Mayor and she witnessed
Commissioner Johnson being acknowledged as one of the board members.
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes—02/24/2010 15
Commissioner Holmes welcomed the new Human Resources Director and Deputy Chief
of Police to the City of Opa-locka. He thanked everyone involved in the planning of his
Birthday Party and those who attended as well on February 17, 2010.
Mayor Kelley reported his attendance at both Crime Watch Meetings; the East Side and
West Side. He directed the City Attorney to get with the City Clerk to prepare a general
notice that any two or more commissioners may be in attendance at any given Crime
Watch Meeting for posting.
He continued by saying that he moved up a notch on the Executive Board of the Miami-
Dade County League of Cities and he is very proud to represent the city.
He further stated that he attended the Literacy Kick-Off Event with State Farm and Youth
Co-op; hosted the monthly Faith Based Meeting on Tuesday, February 23, 2010 which
they are working on a prayer service of support for the people of Haiti and attended
Miami-Dade County's Mayor Carlos Alvarez State of the County Address.
Mayor Kelley commended Christine Gordon and Shawn Williams for the Community
Newspaper and all that they do.
20. OFFICIAL BOARD APPOINTMENTS:
It was moved by Commissioner Johnson, seconded by Commissioner Holmes to re-
appoint Dr. Edward Smith to the Nuisance Abatement Board.
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
At the last commission meeting, Vice Mayor Taylor stated that she indicated to the
Commission she would like to get the parents of the Parks & Recreation to volunteer on
the Community Relations, Recreation & Activities Advisory Board.
Commissioner Tydus stated that she had two citizens who expressed their desire to serve
on the Community Relations, Recreation & Activities Advisory Board. She said one is a
re-appointment and the other is a new appointment. These individuals have requested that
the Commission consider them and they would follow through with the application. The
citizens are Jannie Russell and Jackie Fogarty.
It was moved by Commissioner Tydus, seconded by Commissioner Johnson to re-appoint
Jannie Russell and appoint Jackie Fogarty to the Community Relations, Recreation &
Activities Advisory Board.
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes—02/24/2010 16
There being no discussion, the motion passed by a 5-0 vote.
Commissioner Holmes Yes
Commissioner Johnson Yes
Commissioner Tydus Yes
Vice Mayor Taylor Yes
Mayor Kelley Yes
21. ADJOURNMENT:
There being no further business to come before the City Commission, it was moved by
Commissioner Johnson, seconded by Commissioner Holmes to adjourn the meeting at
8:31 p.m.
ATTEST:
MAYOR
Y CLERK
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes—02/24/2010 17