HomeMy Public PortalAbout04-April 14, 2021 RCMCITY OF OPA-LOCKA
"The Great City"
CLERK'S ACTION SUMMARY MINUTES
REGULAR COMMISSION MEETING
April 14, 2021
7:00 P.M.
1. CALL TO ORDER:
Mayor Matthew A. Pigatt called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. on April 14, 2021 at Sherbondy
Village, 215 Perviz Avenue, Opa-locka, Florida.
2. ROLL CALL:
The following members of the City Commission were present: Commissioner Alvin E. Burke,
Commissioner John H. Taylor Jr., Vice Mayor Veronica J. Williams and Mayor Matthew A. Pigatt.
Commissioner Chris Davis arrived at 7:04 p.m. Also in attendance were: Assistant City Manager
George Ellis, City Attorney Burnadette Norris -Weeks, Assistant City Attorney Candice Cobbs and
City Clerk Joanna Flores. City Manager John E. Pate joined virtually via Zoom.
3. INVOCATION:
The Invocation was delivered by Commissioner Taylor.
4. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE:
The Pledge of Allegiance was recited in unison.
5. AWARDS/PROCLAMATIONS/ACKNOWLEDGMENTS:
There were none.
6. APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA AND PULL LIST (deferrals and deletions):
Mayor Pigatt pulled agenda items 13-1 (this item would be discussed under agenda item 12 - Action Items).
7. APPROVAL OF AGENDA:
It was moved by Vice Mayor Williams, seconded by Commissioner Taylor to approve the agenda.
There being no discussion, the motion passed by a 4-0 vote.
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — April 14, 2021 1
Commissioner Taylor Yes
Vice Mayor Williams Yes
Commissioner Burke Yes
Commissioner Davis Not Present
Mayor Pigatt Yes
8. APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
Virtual Workshop Meeting Minutes — July 09, 2020
It was moved by Commissioner Burke, seconded by Commissioner Taylor to approve the minutes
of the Virtual Workshop on July 9, 2020.
There being no discussion, the motion passed by a 4-0 vote.
Vice Mayor Williams Yes
Commissioner Burke Yes
Commissioner Davis Not Present
Commissioner Taylor Yes
Mayor Pigatt Yes
Virtual Workshop Meeting Minutes — July 16, 2020
It was moved by Commissioner Burke, seconded by Commissioner Taylor to approve the minutes
of the Virtual Workshop on July 16, 2020.
There being no discussion, the motion passed by a 4-0 vote.
Commissioner Burke Yes
Commissioner Davis Not Present
Commissioner Taylor Yes
Vice Mayor Williams Yes
Mayor Pigatt Yes
Virtual Workshop Meeting Minutes — July 23, 2020
It was moved by Commissioner Taylor, seconded by Vice Mayor Williams to approve the minutes
of the Virtual Workshop on July 23, 2020.
There being no discussion, the motion passed by a 4-0 vote.
Commissioner Taylor Yes
Vice Mayor Williams Yes
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — April 14, 2021 2
Commissioner Burke Yes
Commissioner Davis Not Present
Mayor Pigatt Yes
Virtual Workshop Meeting Minutes — March 4, 2021
It was moved by Commissioner Burke, seconded by Commissioner Taylor to approve the minutes
of the Virtual Workshop Meeting on March 4, 2021.
There being no discussion, the motion passed by a 4-0 vote.
Commissioner Taylor Yes
Vice Mayor Williams Yes
Commissioner Burke Yes
Commissioner Davis Not Present
Mayor Pigatt Yes
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — March 10, 2021
It was moved by Commissioner Burke, seconded by Commissioner Taylor to approve the minutes
of the Regular Commission Meeting on March 10, 2021.
There being no discussion, the motion passed by a 4-0 vote.
Vice Mayor Williams Yes
Commissioner Burke Yes
Commissioner Davis Not Present
Commissioner Taylor Yes
Mayor Pigatt Yes
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — March 24, 2021
It was moved by Commissioner Burke, seconded by Commissioner Taylor to approve the minutes
of the Regular Commission Meeting on March 24, 2021.
There being no discussion, the motion passed by a 4-0 vote.
Commissioner Burke Yes
Commissioner Davis Not Present
Commissioner Taylor Yes
Vice Mayor Williams Yes
Mayor Pigatt Yes
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — April 14, 2021 3
9. DISTRICT ONE / DISTRICT TWO - COUNTY COMMISSIONER REPORT:
There were none.
10. PUBLIC PRESENTATIONS:
City Clerk Flores reported that Special Olympics Florida withdrew their request to make a public
presentation before the Commission and will resubmit their request at a later date.
11. CITIZENS' FORUM:
(Opportunity for discussion of any concerns — please limit to 3 minutes)
Clerk Flores announced the protocol for public participation at City Commission meetings.
Mayor Pigatt opened the floor for the Citizens' Forum.
Eric Munoz was recognized after submitting a request through Clerk Flores to speak before the
Commission, but he was not connected to Zoom during Citizens' Forum.
Ramon Cortes, manager of Opa-locka Hialeah Flea Market located at 12691 NW 42nd Avenue
stated that he requested to speak before the Commission via Zoom to address the cease and desist
order he received that required him to stop all of the night time events and operations at his
business. Mr. Cortes reported that he submitted his special event permits but has received no
answers, and would like to see how he can get all of the permits needed.
Mayor Pigatt explained that if any of the Commissioners want to respond to Mr. Cortes, they can
do so at the conclusion of the Citizens' Forum. The Mayor then informed those in attendance in
person at the Commission meeting, that they had the opportunity to participate in the Citizens'
Forum.
Dottie Johnson of 13724 NW 22nd Place congratulated Mayor Pigatt and Vice Mayor Williams
on the Commission priorities workshop, which she acknowledged presented a whole laundry list
of good ideas; adding that it is a lot to accomplish by September 30th and that she hopes that
citizens will be able to have input on some of those ideas. As a reminder, she stated that the items
that were discussed during the workshops after the audit committee met in December, should be
submitted through the audit committee before being voted on by the Commission. She reported
that she is asking for a copy of the policies and procedures to make sure she is knowledgeable on
any changes that may have been made. Ms. Johnson also shared that she watched the downtown
vigil and is glad to see the 2020 vision being resurfaced, but expressed that she felt it was
unfortunate that the same presentation that was given to the Commission in 2012 was presented
again with no changes. She stated that she knew of at least four master plans that cost thousands
of dollars over her ten years, encouraging the Commission to do some research before paying a
consultant to do the work again. Additionally, she asked for a clarification on the progress being
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — April 14, 2021 4
made on sidewalks and infrastructure projects which she said is being presented as new, stating
that the legislation had been approved since 2015 but not being able to be completed because of
the audit. Ms. Johnson asserted that it is time for change with this Commission, as a government
that has real transparency and accountability to the people.
Linnette Leroy of 14400 Monroe Street introduced herself as a member of the Sunshine Dimes
Historians Committee. Ms. Leroy asked the Commission to help them name a street in honor of
Bessie Springfield, who was a long time resident in the area. She explained that they were under
the impression that she was in the City of Opa-locka, but found out that she was in the
unincorporated area of Miami -Dade County. Additionally, she informed the Commission that they
have a project coming up on August 20th that will have 300 females riding across the country to
attend the naming of a street, and said the Commissioners had the information package in front of
them. In consideration of Ms. Bessie being a resident in the Opa-locka area for over 40 years,
recognizing that she was the first black female to ride cross country who opened the doors for all
females to be able to ride, she asked for the Commission's attention and help to make this possible.
Commissioner Burke recalled that the Commission presented a proclamation for Ms. Bessie last
year or the year before. The Commissioner shared that Ms. Mackey was one of his ex -co-workers
and contacted him as one of the members of the Sunshine Dimes Historians Committee, requesting
that a street be named in honor of Miss Springfield. While Ms. Mackey was under the impression
that Miss Springfield was a long-time Opa-locka resident who lived on 153rd Street, he pointed
out that 135th Street to 167th Street was all part of Opa-locka until Miami Gardens was
incorporated as a city. The Commissioner explained that because that is now unincorporated
Miami -Dade County, he told Ms. Mackey to contact him personally to see what the Commission
could do, including presenting another proclamation, but that he didn't think it was in their power
to give Ms. Bessie a street in the City of Opa-locka. He asked the other Commissioners if they
have some other ideas.
Commissioner Taylor said he was unclear on whether Mr. Raymond Cortez had permits or was
still waiting on them and asked City Manager Pate to clarify the matter.
City Manager Pate reported that he has been in constant communication with the legal counsel of
the Opa-locka Hialeah Flea Market. The Manager suggested that Mr. Raymond Cortez should
reach out to his legal counsel, because the City of Opa-locka's legal counsel communicated with
them a couple of days ago. He added that any permits that are pending will be approved moving
forward.
Vice Mayor Williams recalled that the Commission had received some emails in advance of the
meeting and the Commissioners had asked about the Bessie Springfield Ride. Noting that City
Clerk Flores also answered those emails explaining that the property is not in the City of Opa-
locka, the Vice Mayor said that she is not sure if the answer is what they want to hear, but because
it is in an unincorporated area, she stated that the Commission really cannot move on the request.
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — April 14, 2021 5
The Vice Mayor offered to have the City and Commission participate when the ride comes into
Opa-locka, and have the members at a Commission meeting to present them with a proclamation,
which she recalled had happened in 2016. She added that she thinks this has been told several
times to several people, recognizing that it may not have been Ms. Linnette Leroy who had
previously been communicated with.
Commissioner Davis reported also having received the email regarding Ms. Bessie Springfield's
street designation and that he was informed that the street being proffered for renaming was in the
neighboring municipality of Miami Gardens. The Commissioner advised that if there was still
interest in moving ahead with the street renaming, that the city government of Miami Gardens be
petitioned because it is in their jurisdiction and the City of Opa-locka's boundaries are limited to
the north of 151st Street. He added that all of the Commissioners are willing to present a
proclamation acknowledging her contributions to the community, but do not have the power to
rename the street.
Commissioner Burke suggested that Ms. Linnette Leroy should contact the City of Miami Gardens
Mayor Rodney Harris. The Commissioner also stated that he differs with the statement made by
Ms. Dorothy Johnson. He noted that if legislation to fix the sidewalks and streets was passed in
2015 while the Commission did not have the money and order to get the repairs done, then the
repairs that are getting done now are new for the community to see.
Mayor Pigatt thanked Ms. Linnette Leroy for speaking on behalf of Betsy Springfield. The Mayor
shared that when he first got to Opa-locka ten years ago, he researched the history of the great
people that came out of Opa-locka, and learned that Betsy Springfield was one of those who he
had admiration for. He also shared that his family members that are part of bike clubs have
contacted him about the street designation for Betsy Springfield, but noted that as the
Commissioners have said, they technically don't have the power to do it. The Mayor did offer to
personally reach out to the City of Miami Gardens to see if they're willing to sponsor or be a part
of the street designation, and he also stated that he would be more than happy to assist in working
with them to make that happen. Noting that his colleagues on the Commission are supportive, he
added that they can present a joint proclamation on the day of the event to honor her. The Mayor
asserted that even though Miami Gardens took part of the territory from Opa-locka, there are a lot
of people that live there who are proud to say they are from Opa-locka, even though they're
technically not in the City limits. He declared that this is near and dear to the Commission's heart
and that they want to honor her spirit no matter what because they respect her, as he noted the City
had proven in the past. The Mayor asked Ms. Leroy to let the Commission know what she'd like
to do to move forward. He also clarified Commissioner Burke's statement on the road projects.
Reminding the Commission that the funding received for some capital improvement projects back
in 2014 was from the state's revolving loan, further acknowledging that those projects were paused
because of the audits. Clarifying that the funding currently being used right now is coming out of
the City's budget funded by taxpayer dollars as well as funding from the Citizens' Independent
Regular Conunission Meeting Minutes — April 14, 2021 6
Transportation Trust (CITT), he stated that the projects going on all across the City are happening
as a result of the Commission doing its duty and allocating the funding to follow through on the
requests from citizens to get the streets fixed. Expressing pride in the Commission and staff that
have been involved in getting the repairs to move forward, the Mayor offered assurances that they
will continue moving forward with plans to repair sidewalks over the course of the next few years,
all across the City of Opa-locka. The Mayor thanked all those engaged in the process and those
who have been advocating for it, including prior Commissions who worked to make sure the
projects move forward.
Commissioner Taylor asked if the Commission can just name one of the streets in the City of Opa-
locka to honor Betsy Springfield. The Commissioner acknowledged that she did a lot of good
things and that the Commission shouldn't push her away or punish her because she's out of the
City limits.
Mayor Pigatt asserted that he is open to naming a street in Opa-locka to honor Ms. Springfield, but
noted that the request was to name a specific street for her. The Mayor stated that he thinks it is
appropriate that the street she lived on be named after her because it is a historical marker for her
life and work, and that he will personally advocate for that to happen in Miami Gardens. He added
that if it is denied by Miami Gardens, he will co-sponsor the idea with Commissioner Taylor.
There being no further persons to speak, Citizen's Forum was closed.
12. ACTION ITEMS (items from consent agenda pull list):
13-1. A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF OPA-LOCKA,
FLORIDA, EXTENDING AN AGREEMENT WITH TRIMERGE CONSULTING GROUP, P.A.,
FOR A THREE-MONTH PERIOD; PROVIDING FOR INCORPORATION OF RECITALS;
PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. Sponsored by City Manager
The above resolution was read by Assistant City Attorney Candice Cobbs.
It was moved by Commissioner Burke, seconded by Commissioner Davis to pass the resolution.
Mayor Pigatt asked City Manager Pate to introduce the item.
City Manager Pate explained that the item is a request to extend Financial Consultant Gerri
Lazarre's contract for a three-month period as the City prepares for an RFP process. The Manager
explained that the process will request proposals for two options, including outsourcing the entire
Finance Department by hiring a consulting group to handle the City's financial services full time
or for a private finance firm to supplement the Finance Department with a finance director and
staff. He stated that the Manager's Office will not have a formal recommendation on which option
the Commission should go with until the RFPs come in. The Manager did recommend that it is
prudent to extend Ms. Lazarre's contract for three months to complete the current audit as well as
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — April 14, 2021 7
the financial portion of the operational audit review, in addition to her overseeing the day-to-day
functions of the Finance Department. He asserted that upon the passage of Ms. Lazarre's
extension, an RFP for financial services will be put on the table at the very next Commission
meeting. The Manager offered to take any questions from the Commission.
Commissioner Burke asked if the City will no longer have a Finance Department if the
Commission doesn't approve the extension of Financial Consultant Gerri Lazarre's contract.
City Manager Pate stated that if Financial Consultant Gerri Lazarre's contract is not extended, the
City will still have a Finance Department, but will no longer have a finance director, leaving the
Manager and Assistant City Manager George Ellis to oversee the department. The Manager noted
that neither he nor the Assistant Manager are CPAs and thus if they were overseeing it, the Finance
Department would not be as effective as it is with Ms. Lazarre's company and her supplemental
staff at the helm.
Commissioner Burke asked if this is the last extension that Financial Consultant Gerri Lazarre's
company will receive and whether or not there will be an increase in the fees they are charging the
City.
City Manager Pate assured Commissioner Burke that there will be no rate increase for the services
provided by Financial Consultant Gerri Lazarre's company, which he reported are the same rates
her company has been paid since the beginning of her contract with the City. The Manager stated
that he could not guarantee that this will be the last extension, reporting that through extensive
conversations with the Office of the Inspector General of Florida, it was recommended that if any
extensions are granted for Ms. Lazarre's contract, that they be short-term extensions until the RFP
is completed. Asserting that he does not want to obligate the City to a long-term extension period,
the Manager also expressed an understanding for the frustrations over the operations of the Finance
Department and search for a finance director. The Manager suggested that this is the best option
for the Commission and the staff, and he pointed out that the resolution mandates the Manager's
Office to collect RFPs for a long-term contract.
Commissioner Burke asked if there is an active search for a finance director.
City Manager Pate confirmed that he has personally interviewed several candidates for finance
director, but he did not feel comfortable moving forward with them. The Manager also reported
that some of the candidates that he was looking to hire, pulled out of the running for the position
because there are not a lot of finance directors that are willing to put their CPA license on the line
to come to a community still under a fmancial emergency. Restating the fact that the RFP process
will consider the possibility of outsourcing the entire Finance Department, the Manager pointed
out that the practice of outsourcing the department is common in many cities in Florida and across
the United States of America, including the last city the Manager came from. He offered
assurances that the search for a finance director will not stop, and that the Commission will be
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — April 14, 2021 8
provided with options once the RFP process is complete, likely in a workshop setting, to be
discussed in detail and then move forward from there.
Commissioner Davis asked if there has been a change in the scope of the work that the extension
of TriMerge's contract will have Financial Consultant Gerri Lazarre and her team doing.
City Manager Pate stated that the scope of the work done by Financial Consultant Gerri Lazarre
and her team has not changed since he was appointed as Manager. Explaining that he changed the
scope of her services to make Ms. Lazarre, the interim finance director and run the day-to-day
operations of the Finance Department, the Manager confirmed that scope of her work has not
changed since the inception of that contract. He added that Ms. Lazarre's scope of work also
includes evaluations of staff and operations of the department, which is a new requirement as of
about a year ago. Recalling that Ms Lazarre completed a review of the Finance Department in
2019 upon the request of the Manager's predecessor, he reported that she is constantly completing
evaluations of the finance staff and department operations. Additionally, the Manager shared that
Ms. Lazarre has been involved in the interviews for the finance director, accounting positions and
various other open positions within the department.
Mayor Pigatt expressed his concern about the situation in the Finance Department, describing it as
the bedrock of the City. The Mayor pointed out that because of the financial oversight, it is
extremely important that the City get its finances together. He recalled that the Commission had
the same understanding four years ago when the City first contracted TriMerge CPA, at which
time the City was three years behind in audits, it was just beginning oversight and actually had a
Finance Director. Acknowledging that there have been a lot of challenges over the course of the
past few years, he reminded the Commission that TriMerge submitted a Memo in February of 2019
to detail the challenges. As he remembered it, the memo outlined the support that TriMerge needed
to get the Finance Department up and running, and addressed the need for staff evaluations, as
well as the need to hire more staff and the need to update policies and procedures. Stating that the
commission believed at the time that by bringing in a consultant, the City would have the extra
support needed to get the audits done and get out of financial oversight, the Mayor lamented that
it has been four years since then. Acknowledging that Ms. Lazarre did a great job laying out the
challenges for the department, and that the Commission discussed the expansion of the scope of
her work in 2019, he noted that her contract was extended on an emergency basis for a year, and
once again six months ago on the last possible day to do so. Noting that the Commission is once
again in a situation where they have to pass the item to extend her contract in order to have an
operating Finance Department, the Mayor asserted that he really doesn't like being in a last-minute
situation, and said that it happens far too much. His concern as he expressed it, is that the City
Manager offered two options to either outsource the Finance Department or put in support, without
offering a formal recommendation, and he pointed out that it was the same discussion the
Commission had when they first extended the TriMerge contract. Mayor Pigatt stated that the
TriMerge contract was extended six months ago, based on the belief that the Commission would
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — April 14, 2021 9
have clarity about what to do with the Finance Department, and asked when that clarity will be
provided. Pointing out that an RFP process was completed to contract TriMerge originally, the
Mayor stated he is unclear about the talk about another RFP because after four years, the City still
has two audits pending, doesn't have a finance director and has less staff than when the contract
was originally signed. He stressed that he is looking for a solid plan from Management to let the
Commission know how to move the Finance Department forward. He further acknowledged that
the support that is needed is clear from the constant memos from TriMerge, but also stated that for
some reason the City is not recruiting the people needed within the Finance Department. Outlining
the challenges with retaining staff and not getting monthly reports, the Mayor expressed that he
does not feel the situation is getting better and asked City Manager Pate what can be done to filially
solve this, ensuring that any contract extensions for TriMerge are part of a plan to move the Finance
Department forward.
City Manager Pate asked Mayor Pigatt if he was done with his speech so that he can answer his
question, stating that he appreciated his comments and diatribe in regards to his concerns related
to the Finance Department. The Manager disagreed with the Mayor's statements, pointing out that
the State of Florida recently wrote a memorandum commending the Manager and TriMerge CPA
for their work on the progress of the Finance Department, including submitting on -time budgets
and having a budget director. He said that he feels the information that Mayor Pigatt is putting out
to the public is incorrect, fragmented and subjective in nature, acknowledging that it is
understandable because he said we do that as humans. Reminding the Mayor that we are in the
middle of a pandemic right now, he pointed out that many City services were shut down for an
extended period of time due to COVID-19. The Manager stated that the number of people that
have been interviewed for each position is in the monthly report provided to the Commission and
shared that recruitment slowed down in part because on -site interviews were not being scheduled.
He assured the Commission that he will have the Human Resources Department complete a
thorough report on the number of candidates and resumes that have been evaluated for the positions
of finance director, accountant and senior accountant. While TriMerge has been contracted for
four years, Mr. Pate pointed out that he's been the City Manager for a year and a half, and thus he
was not working for the City for three of those years. He reported that despite not having been
involved in the 2019 review of the Finance Department, all of the recommendations from the
review have been put in place. He also reminded the Commission that the City went through four
city managers during Mayor Pigatt's tenure, with multiple resignations, as an indication that the
City has always had issues with recruitment. The Manager asserted that he does not believe the
recruitment issues lie with the Human Resources Department, but rather with the type of
candidates applying, which he said leads to constant turnover of employees. Pointing out that
because Opa-locka is under financial oversight, the State of Florida is overseeing the Finance
Department including the City's payables and budgets. The Manager assured the Commission that
if there is an issue with the Finance Department, they will be notified by the governor's office and
his designee. He told the Mayor that he had not mentioned the City's financial emergency.
Apologizing that the City is not moving in a way that he believes the Mayor desires, he offered
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — April 14, 2021 10
additional assurances to the Mayor that his comments were heard loud and clear. Explaining that
he asked the Commission for a three-month extension on the TriMerge contract to allow for a
proper RFP process, the Manager said it would give him the ability to make a proper formal
recommendation on the direction for the Finance Department, based on the caliber of companies
that submit an application, the pay rates and the contingency of the state's approval. Manager Pate
stated that if the Commission wants a formal report from the State of Florida and would like to
express their concerns, there will be a financial oversight committee meeting in the next 30 to 45
days, during which he looks forward to providing clear information to the public. He added that
the reason the item is before the Commission at this point, is because the Manager said that Mayor
Pigatt has had issues with special meetings and emergency items over the past month and a half.
The Manager stated that the Mayor had expressed that the proper protocols were not being
followed and too many emergency items were being placed on the agenda. He explained that as
Manager, he has the power to approve month -to -month engagements with organizations that are
less than $25,000 a month, so he let this month go by under his authorization to allow Ms. Lazarre
to continue to work, also noting that it has only been fourteen days. Manager Pate acknowledged
that the circumstances are unfortunate, but that he believes positive movement is being made.
Mayor Pigatt expressed that the situation with the City's Finance Department is very serious and
urged the Commission to be on top of it. Acknowledging that all of the members of the
Commission understand that the City is under financial oversight, he reminded the Commissioners
that the oversight is on what they do. Asserting that an answer to solve the financial crisis is
needed, the Mayor stated that constantly approving extensions after the time that the financial
consultant contract has already expired, is not the way to go about it. The Mayor said that he is
and always has been in full support of TriMerge because they have provided a great amount of
information, but he stressed that the Commission needs to make sure the contract is properly
bidded on. He expressed his opinion that the most important point is getting the City's finances
together, whether it be by outsourcing the Finance Department or by hiring actual finance people
with CPAs into the department's positions. Noting that the Commission doesn't yet have an
answer on the best recommendation for the department's direction, the Mayor said he wants to
make sure the Commission is asking about it and getting accountability. Expressing his concerns
which have been stated in multiple meetings that the Commission has not been getting regular
reports over the past few months, he emphasized that it needs to be addressed asap and cannot
continue to go on. While he shared his hope that the new RFP process will address this, he said
that he is afraid that it's going to be a similar situation to what the Commission faced four years
ago, where they did not get what is needed to get the City out of the fmancial crisis.
Commissioner Burke asked if there are any City employees in the Finance Department or if they
are all from TriMerge.
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — April 14, 2021 11
City Manager Pate stated that there are five City employees in addition to one utility billing
manager in the Finance Department, with the rest of those working in the department being
consultants from TriMerge.
Commissioner Davis stated that most of the challenges that the City has faced in the Finance
Department has been with the recruitment of individuals. The Commissioner asked if the RFP
process is geared towards firms or if it is open to allow individuals to also apply.
City Manager Pate informed the Commission that while the RFP has not been approved and thus
changes can be made, it includes the two options of outsourcing the Finance Department or
supplementing it. The Manager confirmed that the recruitment for senior accountant and fmance
director continue to be open through human resources.
Vice Mayor Williams asked City Manager Pate if TriMerge has delivered on everything stated in
their original RFP from four years ago. The Vice Mayor also asserted that the next RFP must have
some type of accountability for the firm the Commission decides to contract. She added that if
that firm is not able to deliver on what they agree to in the RFP process, that she believes they
should no longer be an option on the table and should possibly need to give back some of the
money the City pays them.
City Manager Pate assured Vice Mayor Williams that all of the deliverables that TriMerge agreed
to four years ago, were accomplished and achieved. Mr. Pate reminded the Commission that the
contract with TriMerge was changed when he was appointed as Manager, expanding their duties
and responsibilities to oversee the entire Finance Department in late 2019. He explained that prior
to then, it was just a contract that had them supplementing the Finance Department and assisting
the finance director. He stated that the City caused attrition by firing two finance directors during
the four-year period since TriMerge was first contracted with the City. Acknowledging that the
attrition may have occurred for a positive reason, he said that normal attrition has continued since
he began serving as Manager. He reported that there were issues recruiting for the position of
fmance director as well as with employee output. It was after TriMerge completed their assessment
of the department, that he said he decided to expand their responsibilities. He assured the
Commission that as City Manager, he has been very satisfied with TriMerge's conduct and stated
that they have gone above and beyond the scope of their contract, doing extra work to ensure that
the City is successful on a financial basis. Manager Pate said that he understands the concerns
about finding a permanent solution for the Finance Department, because he hears the public
comments that have been made on multiple occasions and asserted that it is prudent for the City to
complete the RFP process. He said that he does not feel that the City was in the position to
complete an RFP process when the initial TriMerge contract was signed, because the City was in
a healing and rebuilding stage, adding that the City is still in that stage in the Finance Department.
Addressing Vice Mayor William's second question, the Manager assured her that the contract
granted to the company that is selected through the RFP process can include the specifications she
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — April 14, 2021 12
requested to penalize the company for not completing their deliverables, adding that they can be
included within the RFP or within the contract once awarded. He said that those things are under
his direct control as well as the City Commission, which is the body that has to approve the RFP
and contract. Asserting that he feels the City is moving in the right direction, Manager Pate stated
that he had concluded his answer to the Vice Mayor's comments and upon the Mayor and
Commission being finished asking questions, the Manager asked Mayor Pigatt if he could make
further comments about the Mayor's last statements that he didn't get the opportunity to make.
Mayor Pigatt stated that City Manager Pate still had the floor.
City Manager Pate asked Mayor Pigatt if he was giving him the floor to respond to the Mayor.
Mayor Pigatt confirmed that City Manager Pate still had the floor.
City Manager Pate said that he was waiting for Mayor Pigatt to acknowledge that the Vice Mayor
was done speaking and that he didn't know if any other Commissioner had any questions before
the Manager made a further statement. The Manager said that he was being respectful to the dais
and suggested that the Mayor should ask if any other Commissioners have any questions.
Mayor Pigatt asked City Manager Pate to stop playing games and state his comments. The Mayor
asserted that the Manager should do what he has to do, but to please not disrespect anybody on the
Commission by playing games or making anything personal. He asked that the Manager make his
comments so that the Commission can keep moving, because they have business to do for the City.
City Manager Pate disagreed with Mayor Pigatt that he is playing games and stated that he is just
trying to respect the dais and the Chair, acknowledging the Commissioners as they speak, but he
apologized that the Mayor felt that way. In an effort to refute some of the comments the Mayor
made about the Finance Department, the Manager stated that he will ask his staff to send to the
City Commission the last memo from the multiple communications issued by the State of Florida,
in regards to the progress of the Finance Department. Reasserting that he believes the City is
moving in a positive direction, he reported that he foresees the City emerging from its financial
emergency a year early, prior to the five-year mark. Adding that the earlier emergence from
financial emergency is a projection that has been discussed with the state, he pointed out that this
would be contingent on getting all of the City's audits up to date, which he assured the Commission
can be done prior to that time frame.
Mayor Pigatt asked City Manager Pate to state for the record what exactly was incorrect in the
Mayor's statements.
City Manager Pate said that Mayor Pigatt made statements in regards to the Finance Department's
progress that are not factual, including reports not being issued, done or given to the Commission.
The Manager stated that Financial Consultant Lazarre does issue reports on the progress of the
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — April 14, 2021 13
Finance Department. He acknowledged that what the Mayor was speaking of are monthly and
quarterly financial reports, which the Manager said can't be generated unless they're done
manually, due to the limitations of the current finance system Sun Guard. Additionally, he stated
that until the Finance Department is caught up with the audits and all of the bank reconciliations,
he does not believe the system will be able to generate the proper report that is being requested.
The Manager shared that he has spoken to Ms. Lazarre since the last Commission meeting and
said that she will be working towards delivering those monthly and quarterly reports, even if they
do have to get done manually and will require extra support from employees. He explained that
the Finance Department has been focused on getting the audits fully done, addressing the fmdings
of the operational audit, answering questions that are being posed, applying for grants, reviewing
all financials including payroll, handling reimbursements from the CARES Act, and various other
activities that they are handling with limited staff. Manager Pate assured the Commission that it
is not the intent of his office to not issue reports, and that he will strive to provide those documents
to the dais, to ensure the Mayor and Commissioners are properly informed.
Commissioner Davis asked City Manager Pate to state for the record the exact dollar amount
associated with the extension of the TriMerge contract.
City Manager Pate asked Financial Consultant Lazarre or Budget Director Anathan to address
Commissioner Davis' question noting that she bills on a monthly basis and can provide an
approximate amount for the three month contract extension.
Budget Director Anathan reported that the amount that was worked out with Financial Consultant
Lazarre was about $170,000 for the third quarter TriMerge extension.
Commissioner Davis asserted that $170,000 is a lot of money for a three month extension of
TriMerge's services to the City. The Commissioner noted that it is a budgeted item, coming from
other professional services that has a line item for $150,000 and another $100,000 for water and
sewer. He said that while he will not beat a dead horse, he wanted to state his position that at some
point, the Commission has to see some sort of traction with the Finance Department.
City Manager Pate thanked Commissioner Davis for expressing his concerns. In an attempt to
provide context and clarification, the Manager explained that the $170,000 is not being paid to one
individual but accounts for the salaries for 3-4 employees, including temps from Robert Half who
are assisting with payroll calculations.
There being no further discussion, the resolution passed by a 4-1 vote.
Commissioner Davis Yes
Commissioner Taylor Yes
Vice Mayor Williams Yes
Regular Conunission Meeting Minutes — April 14, 2021 14
Commissioner Burke
Mayor Pigatt
13. ADMINISTRATION:
CONSENT AGENDA:
No
Yes
1. A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF OPA-LOCKA, FLORIDA,
EXTENDING AN AGREEMENT WITH TRJ ERGE CONSULTING GROUP, P.A., FOR A
THREE-MONTH PERIOD; PROVIDING FOR INCORPORATION OF RECITALS;
PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. Sponsored by City Manager
The Consent Agenda item was pulled by Mayor Pigatt and voted on under Agenda Item 12 —
Action Items.
14. NEW ITEMS:
15. PLANNING & ZONING:
A. PUBLIC HEARINGS:
B. APPEALS:
16. ORDINANCES/RESOLUTIONS/PUBLIC HEARINGS:
A. FIRST READING ORDINANCE(S)/PUBLIC HEARING(S):
B. SECOND READING ORDINANCE(S)/PUBLIC HEARING(S):
1. AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF OPA-LOCICA,
FLORIDA, AMENDING ARTICLE IV, SECTION 22-81 OF THE CITY OF OPA-LOCKA'S
LAND DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS TO AMEND CERTAIN LANGUAGE REFERENCING
SPECIAL EXCEPTION FOR ADULT BUSINESS OPERATIONS WITHIN THE I-2 ZONING
DISTRICT; PROVIDING FOR CONFLICT AND REPEALER; PROVIDING FOR
SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING FOR CODIFICATION AND SCRIVENER'S ERRORS;
CONFLICTS OF LAW; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE (first reading held on
March 24, 2021). Sponsored by City Manager
The above ordinance was read by Assistant City Attorney Candice Cobbs.
Mayor Pigatt opened the public hearing for the item.
There being no public comments, Mayor Pigatt closed the public hearing for the item.
It was moved by Commissioner Davis, seconded by Vice Mayor Williams to pass the ordinance.
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — April 14, 2021 15
Mayor Pigatt asked City Manager Pate to introduce the item.
City Manager Pate asked Planning & Community Development Director Gregory Gay to present
the item.
Planning & Community Development Director Gregory Gay stated that this is the second reading
for the item that will amend an ordinance for the adult entertainment section of the City's code,
which will basically remove the language regarding the special exception for adult businesses
within the I-2 zoning district. Director Gay explained that this change to the City's code would
allow for adult entertainment businesses to be a permitted use in the I-2 zoning district. He offered
to answer any questions or concerns that the Commission has.
Mayor Pigatt opened the floor for discussion on the item.
Commissioner Davis acknowledged that the amendment to the City's code is being made as part
of a settlement agreement, but he wanted to know what the process would be going forward. The
Commissioner noted that when a business or company plans to develop or provide a service in the
City, they go through the zoning board which then subsequently makes recommendations to the
Commission. In consideration of the fact that approving this item would permanently not allow
adult entertainment businesses in the City, he wanted to know how the process would work for an
adult entertainment business that wants to relocate to Opa-locka in the future.
Planning & Community Development Director Gregory Gay explained that his department has not
created the criteria to adjust to the concerns raised by Commissioner Davis, about future adult
entertainment businesses in Opa-locka. Director Gay added that because the special exception
process was ruled unconstitutional, his department would have to go back to the drawing board
and create a new process, and stated that he hoped to bring that to the Commission within the next
30 to 45 days.
Commissioner Davis pointed out that the court ruling on this issue set precedent in many ways,
and that his concern is how the City can move forward and ultimately prevent something like this
from happening again. The Commissioner said that he looks forward to Planning & Community
Development Director Gregory Gay's department bringing a resolution before the Commission.
Planning & Community Development Director Gregory Gay reported that his department is doing
research and is looking at how other municipalities address adult entertainment business use.
Director Gay stated that once his department gathers that information, they will make a
presentation to the Commission.
Commissioner Burke asked Planning & Community Development Director Gregory Gay to
confirm his understanding that at the present time, as these changes are being made, there is no
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — April 14, 2021 16
process if an adult club wants to come into the City, unless they found a space in the I-2 zoning
district.
Planning & Community Development Director Gregory Gay confirmed that Commissioner Burke
is correct that there is currently no process for an adult entertainment business to be established in
the City of Opa-locka.
Mayor Pigatt stated for the record that he does not like this, but he understands that it is part of the
settlement agreement, which he asserted is the only reason why he is voting to move the item
forward. The Mayor added that he shares the same exact feelings expressed by Commissioner
Davis and Commissioner Burke about the City taking care of this, noting that the process has been
dealt with for a few years and the regulations need to be put in place.
Vice Mayor Williams agreed with the sentiments expressed and stated that she thinks all of the
Commissioners agree, asserting that they just have to bite the bullet on what occurred in the past
and move forward.
There being no further discussion, the resolution passed by a 5-0 vote.
Commissioner Taylor Yes
Vice Mayor Williams Yes
Commissioner Burke Yes
Commissioner Davis Yes
Mayor Pigatt Yes
2. AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF OPA-
LOCICA, FLORIDA, AMENDING CHAPTER IV, ARTICLE 1, SECTION 4-8 OF THE
CITY OF OPA-LOCKA'S CODE OF ORDINANCES TO REDUCE CERTAIN
DISTANCE REQUIREMENTS FOR ALCOHOL SALES AND CONSUMPTION WITHIN
THE CITY; PROVIDING FOR CONFLICT AND REPEALER; PROVIDING FOR
SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING FOR CODIFICATION AND SCRIVENER'S ERRORS;
AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE (first reading held on March 24, 2021).
Sponsored by City Manager
The above ordinance was read by Assistant City Attorney Candice Cobbs.
Mayor Pigatt opened the public hearing for the item.
There being no public comments, Mayor Pigatt closed the public hearing for the item.
It was moved by Commissioner Burke, seconded by Commissioner Taylor to pass the ordinance.
Mayor Pigatt asked City Manager Pate to introduce the item.
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — April 14, 2021 17
City Manager Pate asked Planning & Community Development Director Gregory Gay to present
the item.
Planning & Community Development Director Gregory Gay stated that this is the second reading
of this item which will reduce the distance requirements for alcohol sales and consumption.
Director Gay recalled that a few years ago, his department was asked to look at concerns related
to businesses that sell alcoholic beverages and that they were asked to create a 1,000 foot radius
from Churches, parks and public schools. He reported that as part of the settlement agreement,
the language should be modified to reduce the distance requirements to reflect the requirements in
state statute, which imposes a restriction of alcohol sales within 500 feet of Churches, parks and
public schools. Explaining that while the modification has been made, the grandfather clause
would apply to 2 or 3 of these particular businesses because they were already in operation prior
to the changes to the ordinance. He added that as long as the businesses who are covered by the
grandfather clause keep their permits and licenses up to date, they will be allowed to continue to
operate. Director Gay pointed out that a map was provided to the Commission with about 28
properties including the 500 foot radius. He explained that his department was in the process of
doing research on some other businesses that may be impacted by the restriction on alcohol sales,
but that they were not able to complete the task because the item needed to move forward this
evening.
Mayor Pigatt opened the floor for discussion on the item.
Commissioner Davis asked Planning & Community Development Director Gregory Gay to
explain the meaning of the different colored highlighting of businesses on the map that the
Commission was provided.
Planning & Community Development Director Gregory Gay explained that on the map provided
to the Commission, businesses highlighted in red are liquor stores, businesses highlighted in blue
are clubs and businesses highlighted in yellow are restaurants. Director Gay clarified that not all
of the restaurants on the map provide liquor or alcohol services, and that his department is doing
additional research to modify that information.
Commissioner Davis stated that before he finalizes his vote on the item, he would like to know
what the impact on the City's restaurants will be. Noting that this is the second reading for the
item and that his colleagues had requested that information the last time around, the Commissioner
asked if not voting on the item would affect the settlement.
Planning & Community Development Director Gregory Gay deferred to City Attorney Norris -
Weeks on Commissioner Davis' question about the impact on the settlement that any delay on the
vote on the item could have.
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — April 14, 2021 18
City Attorney Norris -Weeks explained that the goal is to put the business in a position to be able
to legally operate. The City Attorney reminded the Commission that they have already approved
the settlement, and now just have to put forth the regulations that will allow the business to open.
She suggested that one of the things the Commission may consider is having the reduction in the
restrictions for alcohol sales made in the industrial areas as opposed to Citywide. Adding that the
Commission could consider additional changes at some future date, the City Attorney said that she
has been talking to Mr. Gay about changes that need to be made to the land development code that
might accommodate some of the considerations that the Commission has. She pointed out that
limiting the discussion to the City's industrial areas, would allow the business to stay within the
City's framework in the spirit of the settlement agreement.
Commissioner Davis stated that he would be more in favor of making an amendment to the item,
to include restrictions on alcohol sales just in the City's industrial areas as opposed to Citywide.
Commissioner Taylor asked if the grandfather clause that would allow businesses already selling
alcohol to continue operating despite the new restrictions on sales, could include businesses that
only have a license to operate a restaurant with no liquor license. The Commissioner specifically
asked if that grandfather clause would cover those businesses that were already established but
obtain a liquor license in the future.
Planning & Community Development Director Gregory Gay explained that a business would
already have to have their license and proper documentation in place in order to qualify to be
grandfathered and not have the new restrictions on alcohol sales impact them.
Commissioner Taylor offered an example of a business whose license expired on June 1st and the
business owner does not pay their licensing fee until after that date, and asked if according to the
statutes of the State of Florida, that business would lose their grandfather status.
Planning & Community Development Director Gregory Gay explained that based on his
recollection, there is usually a six-month grace period during which a business owner is allowed
to bring their license current. If a business owner goes beyond the six-month time period, Director
Gay stated that they would lose their grandfather status.
Commissioner Davis stated that if the Manager's office is not willing to defer the item until the
board of Commissioners has the comfort of being provided the supplemental information on the
businesses that would be impacted by the restrictions on alcohol sales, he would not support a
Citywide restriction and instead would prefer to offer an amendment to limit the alcohol sale
restriction to the commercial corridor. The Commissioner asked the City Attorney to help him
with the language for the amendment.
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — April 14, 2021 19
City Attorney Norris -Weeks suggested that the Commission could restrict alcohol sales in the I-2
and I-3 zoning districts, and everything else would remain the same. The City Attorney
encouraged Planning & Community Development Director Gregory Gay to share his thoughts.
Planning & Community Development Director Gregory Gay affirmed that City Attorney Norris -
Weeks' suggestion to just restrict alcohol sales in the I-2 and I-3 zoning districts would be
appropriate. Director Gay stated that the properties that are most likely to be impacted are in the
industrial areas and therefore such an amendment makes sense.
Commissioner Davis proposed a motion to have the zoning changes for alcohol sale restrictions,
apply only to the commercial zoning districts in the I-2 and I-3 corridors.
Mayor Pigatt confirmed that there was a motion on the floor to amend Chapter IV, Article 1 ,
Section 4-8 of the City code, and instead of reducing the distance requirements for alcohol sales
from one thousand to five hundred feet throughout the city, that the reduction will be in the I-2 and
I-3 industrial areas.
Commissioner Taylor seconded the motion.
Mayor Pigatt opened the floor for discussion on the amendment.
Commissioner Burke asked Planning & Community Development Director Gregory Gay if the
proposed amendment to restrict the distance requirement reduction for alcohol sales to the
industrial areas of the City, would affect any of the businesses that are operating now.
Planning & Community Development Director Gregory Gay assured Commissioner Burke that
those businesses which have their proper licensure and permitting in place, should not be affected
by the amendment to restrict the distance requirement reduction for alcohol sales.
Mayor Pigatt indicated his complete support for the amendment, sharing that he had expressed the
same concerns about the limitations on alcohol sales. Looking at the map, the Mayor said that it
does seem as though there's quite a few impacts throughout the City. He thanked Commissioner
Davis for proposing the amendment.
There being no further discussion, the motion on the amendment passed by a 5-0 vote.
Commissioner Burke Yes
Commissioner Davis Yes
Commissioner Taylor Yes
Vice Mayor Williams Yes
Mayor Pigatt Yes
Mayor Pigatt asked if there was any other discussion on the main item.
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — April 14, 2021 20
There being no further discussion, the ordinance passed by a 5-0 vote.
Vice Mayor Williams Yes
Commissioner Burke Yes
Commissioner Davis Yes
Commissioner Taylor Yes
Mayor Pigatt Yes
C. RESOLUTION(S):
17. CITY MANAGER'S REPORT:
City Manager Pate stated that he did not have a report, but he would take any questions from the
Commission.
Commissioner Burke left at 8:29 p.m.
Vice Mayor Williams stated that she has noted a recurring theme of not having sufficient human capital
with staff not having the appropriate skill set, recalling that earlier it was discussed as a problem in the
Finance Department, and on Monday during the workshop it was discussed as a problem in the Public
Works Department. The Vice Mayor asserted that there has to be some form of accountability for how the
people that want to work for the City of Opa-locka are vetted. She added that the employee evaluation
system is part of the problem, and stated that if the City can't find the right person for the job there is
something that needs to be fixed. While she recognized that Opa-locka does not offer the pay that
individuals are looking for, the Vice Mayor said that the City needs to do its due diligence to go after the
talent pool. She urged that time be spent on the evaluation systems, constant feedback and transformation
of the City's different departments.
City Manager Pate thanked Vice Mayor Williams for her comments and stated that they were duly noted.
The City Manager asked that a meeting be set up to discuss her concerns in detail with the director of
Human Resources and the Manager, and he stated that whatever is discussed will be reported out to the
entire Commission.
Mayor Pigatt asked City Manager Pate what the status of the bus benches were, noting that it has been quite
a while since the benches disappeared throughout the City. He expressed that riding the bus is a challenge
within itself without adding the additional challenge of not having a place to sit, and he committed to
bringing it up at every single meeting moving forward. Sharing that people have brought chairs and couches
to the bus stops and pointing out that there is also an issue with trash in those areas, the Mayor asserted that
this issue needs to be resolved for the sake of those people within the community that rely on public
transportation. The Mayor asked what the resolution will be and how soon it can be expected.
City Manager Pate assured Mayor Pigatt that the matter of the missing bus benches is under review by the
City Attorney, which is looking over the contract that will be presented to the Commission on the agenda
for the next meeting this month.
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — April 14, 2021 ' 21
City Attorney Norris -Weeks reported that she spoke today with Public Works Director Airia Austin about
preparing a staff memo, so that the item to replace the bus benches can be reviewed by the City Attorney.
She confirmed that her office already started preparing the contract, and that City Manager Pate was correct
that the item should be on the agenda at the next Commission meeting.
Mayor Pigatt recalled that Commissioner Davis had inquired about the hurricane preparedness report during
the workshop on Monday, and asked if the Commission will see that before June 1st.
City Manager Pate stated that the City received a grant through the Miami -Dade County Office of
Emergency Management to have Opa-locka's entire comprehensive emergency management plan redone.
He shared that Financial Consultant Gerri Lazarre helped to secure the grant, which is beyond her scope of
duties. The Manager assured the Commission that the report is nearly complete, under staff review and will
be done prior to June. He added that the report will most likely come before the Commission for full
approval in May.
Mayor Pigatt stated that he hopes the hurricane preparedness report includes local partners in the response,
recalling that the last few times that hurricanes have impacted the City, a lot of local community partners
came together to make sure that residents had food, water and support on the ground. Additionally, the
Mayor stated that he would love to make sure that the City has communication protocols in place, so that
when disasters impact Opa-locka, City officials can be available for residents, working with community
partners to provide whatever is needed.
18. OFFICIAL BOARD REPORTS:
There were none.
Mayor Pigatt recalled that at the last Commission meeting there was a discussion about promoting the
City's board appointments, and he asked City Manager Pate for a status update on the process.
City Manager Pate explained that because it is not part of Public Relations Consultant Jessica Modkins
marketing contract, he had to ensure that dollars were available in the budget, which was approved today.
The Manager reported that Ms. Modkins is working with Legislative Assistant Randy Grice to develop a
plan with precise specifications on how the City will promote its open board positions, but he does not have
a projected time for when it will be completed.
19. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS:
Commissioner Davis proposed two future agenda items. The first future agenda item proposed by
Commissioner Davis was to have the City commemorate Juneteenth as a holiday, to acknowledge it as a
day that is near and dear to the hearts of the community and recognize that it marks the end of a tumultuous
time for people of color. The second future agenda item proposed by Commissioner Davis was the naming
and official adoption of Magnolia North as a County and City park. The Commissioner stated that the
project is near and dear to his heart because he worked intimately on that project and it was one of the first
things he was able to accomplish as a young organizer, setting him on the road to public service and giving
back to the community. He added that he would like to see that project move forward and recognized the
symbolic and special nature of the naming of the park.
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — April 14, 2021 22
Mayor Pigatt stated that he supports Commissioner Davis' proposal to commemorate Juneteenth and
officially name Magnolia North Park as a County and City park. Additionally, he said that if the
Commissioner would allow him to, he would like to co-sponsor both items. The Mayor recognized the
motion from Commissioner Davis to add to the agenda the approval of Juneteenth as a holiday in the City
of Opa-locka.
Vice Mayor Williams seconded the motion and also asked Commissioner Davis to co-sponsor his proposed
item to recognize Juneteenth as a holiday in Opa-locka, noting that it is an item that should have already
been proffered.
Mayor Pigatt opened the floor for discussion on the proposed future agenda item.
There being no further discussion, the motion passed by a 4-0 vote.
Commissioner Davis Yes
Commissioner Taylor Yes
Vice Mayor Williams Yes
Commissioner Burke Not Present
Mayor Pigatt Yes
Mayor Pigatt recognized Commissioner Davis' second motion to establish Magnolia North as an official
park within the City of Opa-locka.
Vice Mayor Williams seconded the motion.
Mayor Pigatt opened the floor for discussion on the proposed future agenda item.
There being no further discussion, the motion passed by a 4-0 vote.
Commissioner Taylor Yes
Vice Mayor Williams Yes
Commissioner Burke Not Present
Commissioner Davis Yes
Mayor Pigatt Yes
20. MAYOR/COMMISSION REPORTS:
Commissioner Taylor once again extended an invitation to his colleagues for the bike ride on Saturday,
April 17th. The Commissioner confirmed that Vice Mayor Williams will be on a bike. He urged everyone
to tell the community to come out and ride the bikes with the Commission, and said it's going to be very
fun.
Vice Mayor Williams thanked Commissioner Taylor for proffering the biking event, recognizing that
cycling is huge within the community. The Vice Mayor recognized that because of the pandemic, she is
thankful that the community will be able to get out and socialize at an event that will promote a healthy
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — April 14, 2021 23
lifestyle. She added that she looks forward to passing out water at the event. Reporting on her attendance
at the Thrive 305 reception, the Vice Mayor shared that Miami -Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava
shared many interesting proposals from the citizens of the entire county and she added that Opa-locka got
a shout out during the presentation. Recognizing that she, her colleagues on the Commission and the City
Manager's office are the leaders of the City, and thus they need to make sure that the conversations that are
had in leadership meetings stay within those meetings, and are not being used to push and pull those that
work under them. She reminded the Commission that the City officials are being watched, and how
employees feel impacts how they work, acknowledging that they need to make sure that the conversations
being had don't make the workload of City employees harder.
Mayor Pigatt stated that beautification was the top priority established by the Commission at the workshop
on Monday, with the goal of making sure that the City is a place of beauty and respect. The Mayor said he
is looking forward to pushing for beautification. He reported that he just got word that as Vice Chair of the
Miami -Dade Board of County Commissioners, Oliver Gilbert is proposing a pilot program that would cover
the fees for illegal trash that is being dumped. The Mayor shared that Vice Chair Gilbert's item will be
presented tomorrow between 12 and 3 PM at the county commission chambers. He urged his colleagues
to share their support for getting assistance from the county to cover the cost of illegal dumping, recognizing
that the county is helping to push the City of Opa-locka forward. Mayor Pigatt also reported that
Congresswoman Frederica Wilson has been a champion for Opa-locka in the halls of the Capitol to ensure
that the City receives appropriations for basic services such as the shot spotter program. He explained that
the technology employed by the program identifies gunshots within the community, but the City has been
unable to afford it because of its fmancial situation. The Mayor also stated that appropriations are being
sought for assistance with the City's infrastructure projects. He pointed out that the media has been talking
about the American Jobs Plan from President Biden and Vice President Harris and making sure the
infrastructure dollars that will be approved as part of the plan are spread throughout the nation, including
the City of Opa-locka. The Mayor also reported that Senator Shevrin Jones and Representative James Bush
are fighting in Tallahassee to get affordable housing dollars for Opa-locka, in addition to other things that
they and all of Opa-locka's elected representatives in government are doing to move the City forward. He
urged the Commission to give kudos and send thank you letters to Congresswoman Wilson an& all of the
elected representatives on behalf of the entire community, for their efforts advocating for funding and
resources that can take Opa-locka to another level.
21. OFFICIAL BOARD APPOINTMENTS:
Mayor Pigatt asked City Clerk Flores if there were any board appointments.
City Clerk Flores confirmed that an application was submitted by Frances Dolly MacIntyre. The Clerk
informed the Commission that Ms. Maclntyre is a non-resident applicant with a historic preservation
background. She stated that the Commission should have received a letter from Ms. Maclntyre with her
bio and background. Reminding the Commission that this is an at -large appointment.
Mayor Pigatt asked if there was a motion to appoint Frances Dolly Maclntyre to the City of Opa-locka
Historic Environmental Preservation Board.
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — April 14, 2021 24
It was moved by Commissioner Davis, seconded by Commissioner Taylor to approve the
appointment of Frances Dolly Maclntyre to the City of Opa-locka Historic Environmental Preservation
Board.
Mayor Pigatt opened the floor for discussion.
There being no further discussion, the motion passed by a 4-0 vote.
Vice Mayor Williams Yes
Commissioner Burke Not Present
Commissioner Davis Yes
Commissioner Taylor Yes
Mayor Pigatt Yes
Mayor Pigatt welcomed Ms. MacIntyre to the City of Opa-locka, recognizing that her resume was
extremely impressive. The Mayor stated that the Commission is excited to have her as a long-time
historic preservation advocate, advocating on behalf of Opa-locka's historic properties and they
look forward to her leadership on the historic board. He added that if she needs anything, she
should feel free to reach out to the Commission. Recognizing Ms. MacIntyre for having stepped
up, the Mayor extended an offer to all residents and all people to join her in stepping up to be part
of Opa-locka's boards and make a difference in the community by bringing change, transformation
and helping the City to continue rising.
22. ADJOURNMENT:
There being no further business to come before the City Commission, it was moved by
Commissioner Taylor, seconded by Commissioner Davis to adjourn the meeting at 8:52 p.m.
Matthew A. Pfgatt
Mayor
Attest:
Joahna Flores, CMC
City Clerk
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — April 14, 2021 25