HomeMy Public PortalAbout01- January 23, 2013 Meeting Minutes CITY OF OPA-LOCKA
"The Great City"
CLERK'S ACTION SUMMARY MINUTES
REGULAR COMMISSION MEETING
January 23,2013
7:00 P.M.
Opa-locka Municipal Complex
780 Fisherman Street,2"d Floor
Opa-locka, FL 33054
1. CALL TO ORDER:
Mayor Myra L. Taylor called the meeting to order at 7:05 p.m. on Wednesday, January
23, 2013 on the 2nd Floor of the Opa-locka Municipal Complex, 780 Fisherman Street,
Opa-locka, Florida.
2. ROLL CALL:
The following members of the City Commission were present: Vice Mayor Joseph L.
Kelley, Commissioner Timothy Holmes, and Mayor Myra L. Taylor. Also in attendance
were: City Manager Kelvin L. Baker, Sr., City Attorney Joseph S. Geller, and City Clerk
Joanna Flores. Commissioner Luis B. Santiago arrived at 7:06 p.m. Commissioner
Dorothy Johnson was not in attendance.
3. INVOCATION:
The Invocation was delivered by Mayor Myra L. Taylor.
4. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE:
The Pledge of Allegiance was recited in unison.
5. APPROVAL OF AGENDA:
6. APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA AND PULL LIST (deferrals and
deletions):
The following items were pulled from the Consent Agenda to be discussed separately
under Action Items: 19-5, and 19-9 (Vice Mayor Kelley); 19-2, 19-3, and 19-6
(Commissioner Santiago).
Mayor Taylor deferred item 18 Al until the next Regular Commission Meeting.
It was moved by Commissioner Holmes, seconded by Vice Mayor Kelley to approve the
agenda, consent agenda and pull list.
There being no discussion, the passed by a 4-0 vote.
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes—01/23/2013 1
Commissioner Holmes Yes
Vice Mayor Kelley Yes
Commissioner Johnson Not Present
Commissioner Santiago Yes
Mayor Taylor Yes
Request to amend the agenda to include the following items:
16-1: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF OPA-
LOCKA, FLORIDA, TO AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO ARRANGE FOR
THE INPUT AND PAYMENT OF PRIOR PERIOD FLORIDA RETIREMENT
SYSTEM (FRS) CONTRIBUTIONS AND DELINQUENT FEES FOR ELECTED
OFFICIALS FOR THE PERIOD OF JANUARY 1, 2003 THROUGH NOVEMBER 30,
2012, IN AN AMOUNT ESTIMATED NOT TO EXCEED $50,000, PAYABLE FROM
ACCOUNT 10-511220; PROVIDING FOR INCORPORATION OF RECITALS;
PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. Sponsored by C.M.
It was moved by Commissioner Holmes, seconded by Vice Mayor Kelley to amend the
agenda to include item 16-1.
There being no discussion, the motion to amend the agenda passed by a 4-0 vote.
Vice Mayor Kelley Yes
Commissioner Santiago Yes
Commissioner Johnson Not Present
Commissioner Holmes Yes
Mayor Taylor Yes
7. AWARDS/PROCLAMATIONS/ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS:
8. APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
Regular Commission Meeting—01/09/2013
It was moved by Vice Mayor Kelley, seconded by Commissioner Holmes to approve the
minutes of the Regular Commission Meeting of January 9, 2013.
There being no discussion, the motion passed by a 4-0 vote.
Commissioner Santiago Yes
Commissioner Holmes Yes
Commissioner Johnson Not Present
Vice Mayor Kelley Yes
Mayor Taylor Yes
9. 17th CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT OF FLORIDA REPORT:
10. STATE SENATORS REPORT:
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes—01/23/2013 2
11. STATE REPRESENTATIVES REPORT:
12. DISTRICT ONE / DISTRICT TWO - COUNTY COMMISSIONER
REPORT:
Larry Gardner, of Miami-Dade County Commissioner Jordan's Office (District 1) came
forward and stated that the Mom & Pop grant is available for residents residing in District
Applications are available at www.miamidade.gov/district0l or at the district office, 2780
NW 167th Street, Miami Gardens, FL.
Mayor Taylor asked, does Miami-Dade County provide foreclosure assistance?
Mr. Gardner said the county has a program through their Housing Department.
Vice Mayor Kelley asked, will Miami-Dade County come to the city to do a Foreclosure
assistance forum?
Mr. Gardner said that is a possibility and he will start working on scheduling the forum.
Vice Mayor Kelley directed the City Clerk's Office to work with Larry Gardner on
possible dates.
13. MIAMI-DADE COUNTY FIRE RESCUE DEPARTMENT REPORT:
14. PUBLIC PRESENTATION:
14a. CITIZENS' FORUM:
1. Alvin Burke of 2928 NW 132 Street, Apt. 328, Opa-locka, Florida, appeared
before the City Commission and voiced his concerns with regards to the city allowing
businesses to open without going through the proper process.
He further voiced his concerns as it relates to the city freely spending tax payer's dollars.
The City Commission has new vehicles; however, the city rented convertible cars to drive
in the Martin Luther King Jr. Parade. The City Commission needs to be more considerate
with it comes to spending tax payer's money.
2. Eldred Redmon of 2766 NW 131St Street, Opa-locka, Florida, appeared before the
City Commission and voiced his concerns with regards to the city's Reserve Police
Officers not receiving a Christmas Bonus. He understands that the Reserve Police
Officers may not be listed as employees; however, there is something called appreciation.
Commissioner Holmes said after the issue was brought to his attention, he reviewed the
legislation passed giving the employees a Christmas Bonus and it read "all employees"
should receive the bonus. He provided a copy of the legislation to the City Manager for
review.
Commissioner Holmes asked the City Manager if he reviewed the legislation.
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes—01/23/2013 3
Manager Baker said the issue was resolved.
15. ACTION ITEMS (items from consent agenda pull list):
(19-2) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF OPA-
LOCKA, FLORIDA, AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO ISSUE REQUEST
FOR QUALIFICATIONS (RFQ) FOR QUALIFIED INDIVIDUALS OR FIRMS
INTERESTED IN ASSISTING THE CITY WITH "BROWNFIELD"
REHABILITIATION AND DEVELOPMENT; PROVIDING FOR INCORPORATION
OF RECITALS; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. Sponsored by J.K.
The above resolution was read by title by Attorney Geller.
It was moved by Commissioner Santiago, seconded by Vice Mayor Kelley to pass the
resolution.
Commissioner Santiago said he is in support of this legislation and wants the eastside of
the city to be cleaned.
There being no further discussion, the motion passed by a 4-0 vote.
Commissioner Santiago Yes
Commissioner Holmes Yes
Commissioner Johnson Not Present
Vice Mayor Kelley Yes
Mayor Taylor Yes
(19-3) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF OPA-
LOCKA, FLORIDA, TO AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO CREATE A PLAN
AND PURSUE FINANCIAL COMPENSATION OR PROPERTY ACQUISITION OF
HOMES THAT HAVE CITY LIENS, OR ARE ABANDONED AND ARE CREATING
A NUISANCE TO THE COMMUNITY; PROVIDING FOR INCORPORATION OF
RECITALS; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. Sponsored by J.K.
The above resolution was read by title by Attorney Geller.
It was moved by Commissioner Santiago, seconded by Vice Mayor Kelley to pass the
resolution.
Commissioner Santiago said he supports the legislation; however, he would like the city
employees to get first preference in purchasing the homes.
Vice Mayor Kelley said the legislation is authorizing the City Manager to create a plan,
but the City Manager has to come back before the City Commission to make sure they
agree with the plan.
He further said the City Manager will incorporate the Commissioners comments into the
plan.
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes—01/23/2013 4
There being no further discussion, the motion passed by a 4-0 vote.
Commissioner Holmes Yes
Vice Mayor Kelley Yes
Commissioner Johnson Not Present
Commissioner Santiago Yes
Mayor Taylor Yes
(19-5) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF OPA-
LOCKA, FLORIDA, TO PROHIBIT CONTINUED EMPLOYMENT OF EMPLOYEES
WHO FILE A LAWSUIT AGAINST THE CITY; PROVIDING FOR
INCORPORATION OF RECITALS; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
Sponsored by T.H.
The above resolution was read by title by Attorney Geller.
Attorney Geller said he is obligated to inform the City Commission as he did previously
to the sponsor that the legislation is against the advice of counsel.
It was moved by Vice Mayor Kelley, seconded by Commissioner Holmes to pass the
resolution.
Vice Mayor Kelley said the City Attorney answered his question, he wanted clarity as to
the intent of the legislation.
He asked, is there a way to craft some legislation to the same effect without putting the
city in a liability?
Commissioner Holmes said this is not the first time the City Attorney has provided
legislation that goes against the counsel's advice.
He further said the reason he sponsored this legislation is because everyone is suing the
city and still have their job.
Attorney Geller said he offered his opinion to the City Commission. If the legislation was
illegal he wouldn't have signed it, however, the Commissioner requested the legislation
so he prepared it. It is not illegal to adopt the resolution, but in his opinion you should not
punish someone for exercising their legal rights, which is retaliation.
Commissioner Holmes said the city has to put a stop to employees faking injuries, then
sue the city and still be allowed to keep their job.
Mayor Taylor asked the sponsor if he is making reference to employees that sue the city
for injuries or those that sue the city for other reasons.
Commissioner Holmes said employees that sue the city for injuries have a right to sue if
they are injured on the job while performing their duties.
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes—01/23/2013 5
Vice Mayor Kelley suggested that the sponsor defer the resolution until all concerns are
addressed.
He further said he agree that employees faking law suits should be stopped, however the
legislation does not make reference to employees getting hurt on the job and faking their
injuries as oppose to an employee that sues for a real issue such as a Whistle Blower Act.
Commissioner Holmes said he would like to amend the resolution.
Mayor Taylor said she does not think the resolution can be amended at this time. She
asked that the sponsor meet with the City Attorney to amend the resolution.
Commissioner Santiago said he share the same concerns as Commissioner Holmes; the
city has to put a stop to employees suing the city.
Mayor Taylor said she like the resolution but, she has some concerns and she does not
want the city to be in harms way.
Commissioner Holmes said he would like to amend the resolution to reflect that
employees injured on the job are not included in the legislation.
Commissioner Holmes deferred item 19-5.
(19-6) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF OPA-
LOCKA, FLORIDA, TO AUTHORIZE AUTOMOBILE ALLOWANCES FOR THE
FINANCE DIRECTOR AND THE ASSISTANT CITY MANAGER; PROVIDING FOR
INCORPORATION OF RECITALS; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
Sponsored by T.H.
The above resolution was read by title by Attorney Geller.
It was moved by Commissioner Santiago, seconded by Commissioner Holmes to pass the
resolution.
Commissioner Santiago said he does not want to support legislation for the Finance
Director to receive a car allowance; he can use one of the pool vehicles.
He further mentioned that Mr. Chiverton travel throughout the city and he'd always
available whenever he's called. He had to lend his vehicle to Mr. Chiverton, because he
does not have a city vehicle.
Mayor Taylor said the resolution is to authorize a car allowance for two people and if
they vote, it will be for both employees.
Commissioner Santiago said he believes that Mr. Chiverton really needs a city car. The
only way he will support the resolution if the City Commission gives the Finance
Director and Assistant City Manager a city vehicle.
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes—01/23/2013 6
Commissioner Holmes said both, the Finance Director and Assistant City Manager has a
lot of traveling to do for the city.
Vice Mayor Kelley said the amount is not listed in the resolution, how much will the car
allowance be for the Finance Director and Assistant City Manager?
Commissioner Holmes said the car allowance amount should be consistent with the
amount that's currently being given to the City Manager and City Clerk.
Vice Mayor Kelley asked the City Manager how much he receives for car allowance.
Manager Baker said $300.00 per month.
He further said according to the budget there are only two employees receiving a car
allowance.
Vice Mayor Kelley asked the City Clerk how much she receives for car allowance.
Clerk Flores said she believes $500.00 per month.
Commissioner Holmes said he would like the Finance Director and Assistant City
Manager to receive a$550.00 car allowance.
Vice Mayor Kelley said he has concerns with that amount because they should not get
more than the City Manager. The Assistant City Manager should have transportation, but
he is troubled about the amount because it is not budgeted.
Vice Mayor Kelley suggested that the Assistant City Manager and Finance Director
receive a$300.00 car allowance and the City Manager's car allowance is increased.
Commissioner Holmes said the City Manager was hired by resolution and the City
Commission has the authority to amend that resolution to increase his contract.
He further asked, what account will the car allowance come from?
Manager Baker said staff will look at the finances and provide the City Commission with
a response.
Vice Mayor Kelley said he would like the resolution deferred to include the City
Manager's increase and a dollar amount for the Assistant City Manager and Finance
Director.
Commissioner Holmes deferred item 19-6.
(19-9) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF OPA-
LOCKA, FLORIDA, REQUESTING APPROVAL OF A CHANGE ORDER FOR JVA
ENGINEERING CONTRACTOR, INC. TO PERFORM ADDITIONAL WORK ON
143RD STREET DRAINAGE AND ROADWAY PROJECT TO INSTALL A
ROUNDABOUT AT THE INTERSECTION OF NW 143RD STREET, 24T" AVENUE
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes—01/23/2013 7
AND RUTLAND STREET, IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $174,890,
PAYABLE FROM CAPITAL PROJECTS FUND, ACCOUNT 44-541805 AND PTP
FUND, ACCOUNT 47-541805; 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 Vice Mayor Kelley, seconded by Commissioner Santiago to pass the
resolution.
Vice Mayor Kelley said it is his understanding that the deadline to spend the funds is
May 31, 2013. He has some challenges; because this company has done previous work in
the city and they were just awarded a bid for Burlington Street.
He expressed his concerns relating to one company doing all the projects in the city. The
process could have been done differently, because there was enough time to put the job
out and receive RFP's/RFQ's. He suggested that this does not occur in the future.
Commissioner Santiago asked, has JVA Engineering provided other services for the city
in the past?
Manager Baker replied, yes.
Commissioner Santiago asked the City Manager for an explanation as to what was done
wrong in the previous project because he heard complaints from several citizens.
Manager Baker said there is sinkage in the asphalt as a result of underground conditions
with the pipeline. The pipeline temporary passed, but when they do the permanent fix,
that whole section will be cut out and repaired correctly.
Commissioner Santiago asked, will the company be responsible for that?
Manager Baker replied, yes.
There being no further discussion, the motion passed by a 4-0 vote.
Commissioner Santiago Yes
Commissioner Holmes Yes
Commissioner Johnson Not Present
Vice Mayor Kelley Yes
Mayor Taylor Yes
16. NEW ITEMS:
(16-1) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF OPA-
LOCKA, FLORIDA, TO AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO ARRANGE FOR
THE INPUT AND PAYMENT OF PRIOR PERIOD FLORIDA RETIREMENT
SYSTEM (FRS) CONTRIBUTIONS AND DELINQUENT FEES FOR ELECTED
OFFICIALS FOR THE PERIOD OF JANUARY 1, 2003 THROUGH NOVEMBER 30,
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes—01/23/2013 8
2012, IN AN AMOUNT ESTIMATED NOT TO EXCEED $50,000, PAYABLE FROM
ACCOUNT 10-511220; 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 Vice Mayor Kelley to pass the
resolution.
There being no discussion, the motion passed by a 4-0 vote.
Commissioner Holmes Yes
Vice Mayor Kelley Yes
Commissioner Johnson Not Present
Commissioner Santiago Yes
Mayor Taylor Yes
17. PLANNING & ZONING:
A. HEARINGS:
B. APPEALS:
18. ORDINANCES/RESOLUTIONS/PUBLIC HEARING:
A. FIRST READING/PUBLIC HEARING:
1. AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF OPA-
LOCKA, FLORIDA, AMENDING ORDINANCE NO. 09-16, SECTION 21-77
ENTITLED "SCHEDULE OF RATES GENERALLY" BY AMENDING PROVISIONS
RELATED TO WATER AND SEWER RATE FOR FISCAL YEAR 2013-2014;
PROVIDING FOR INCORPORATION OF RECITALS; PROVIDING FOR
CONFLICT AND REPEALER; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING
FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. Sponsored by M.T.
Item deferred by the Sponsor
2. AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF OPA-
LOCKA, FLORIDA, TO CORRECT A SCRIVERNER'S ERROR IN THE LEGAL
DESCRIPTION OF THE ALLEY VACATED PURSUANT TO ORDINANCE NO. 12-
23; PROVIDING FOR INCORPORATION OF RECITALS; PROVIDING FOR
CONFLICT AND REPEALER; PROVIDING FOR CODIFICATION AND
SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. Sponsored by C.M.
It was moved by Vice Mayor Kelley, seconded by Commissioner Holmes to pass the
above ordinance.
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes—01/23/2013 9
There being no discussion, the motion passed by a 4-0 vote.
Vice Mayor Kelley Yes
Commissioner Santiago Yes
Commissioner Johnson Not Present
Commissioner Holmes Yes
Mayor Taylor Yes
B. SECOND READING ORDINANCE/PUBLIC HEARING:
C. RESOLUTIONS/PUBLIC HEARING:
19. ADMINISTRATION:
CONSENT AGENDA:
(19-1) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF OPA-
LOCKA, FLORIDA, TO AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO ENTER INTO
AND EXECUTE AN AGREEMENT WITH MARY MEANS AND ASSOCIATES TO
PROVIDE SPECIALIZED CONSULTING SERVICES FOR HISTORIC CITY HALL,
IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $60,000.00, PAYABLE FROM ACCOUNT NO.
44-541823; PROVIDING FOR INCORPORATION OF RECITALS; PROVIDING FOR
AN EFFECTIVE DATE. Sponsored by J.K.
(19-4) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF OPA-
LOCKA, FLORIDA, APPROVING THE RESOLUTION OF THE COMMUNITY
REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY (CRA) BOARD AUTHORIZING THE CRA CHAIR
AND EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR TO ENTER INTO AN INTERLOCAL
COORPERATION AGREEMENT WITH MIAMI-DADE COUNTY; PROVIDING
FOR INCORPORATION OF RECITALS; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
Sponsored by J.K.
(19-7) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF OPA-
LOCKA, FLORIDA, AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO PREPARE AND
ISSUE A REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS (RFP) FOR DESIGN AND BUILD
SERVICES FOR NW 128TH STREET DRAINAGE AND ROADWAY
IMPROVEMENTS; PROVIDING FOR INCORPORATION OF RECITALS;
PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. Sponsored by C.M.
(19-8) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF OPA-
LOCKA, FLORIDA, AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO ENTER INTO AN
INTERLOCAL AGREEMENT WITH MIAMI-DADE COUNTY FOR THE TRAFFIC
ENGINEERING FUNCTIONS FOR INSTALLATION OF THE ROUNDABOUT AT
THE INTERSECTION OF NW 143RD STREET, RUTLAND STREET, AND NW 24TH
AVENUE; PROVIDING FOR INCORPORATION OF RECITALS; PROVIDING FOR
AN EFFECTIVE DATE. Sponsored by C.M.
(19-10) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF OPA-
LOCKA, FLORIDA, TO AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO ACCEPT A
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes—01/23/2013 10
MIAMI-DADE COUNTY CRIME PREVENTION GRANT, IN THE AMOUNT OF
FORTY-ONE THOUSAND SIX HUNDRED FIFTY DOLLARS ($41,650.00);
PROVIDING FOR INCORPORATION OF RECITALS; PROVIDING FOR AN
EFFECTIVE DATE. Sponsored by C.M.
The above resolutions were read by title by Attorney Geller.
It was moved by Commissioner Holmes, seconded by Vice Mayor Kelley to pass items 1,
4, 7, 8 and 10 of the consent agenda.
There being no discussion, the motion passed by a 4-0 vote.
Commissioner Santiago Yes
Commissioner Holmes Yes
Commissioner Johnson Not Present
Vice Mayor Kelley Yes
Mayor Taylor Yes
A. CITY MANAGER'S REPORT:
Manager Baker reported that he is scheduled to visit Tallahassee to look at appropriations
for grant dollars.
He met with Miami-Dade County Water & Sewer regarding 20 year water contract.
During that meeting he raised several concerns and one was future rate increases. They
estimated in the upcoming years that the city will be looking at rate increases not
exceeding 10% for each year. In addition, the federal EPA decree is in the process of
being redeveloped.
He continued by saying that staff prepared a document regarding the Proposed Fee
Adjustments and they are requesting to meet with the City Commission individually to
address all of their concerns.
He said that during the month of February the logistics should be complete for the side
walk employment program. The program has been finalized to be consistent with the
information received from Miami-Dade County as it relates to the PTP funds.
He further said he is pleased to report that the negotiations to purchase the Town Center
building are complete. He is proposing to schedule a Special Meeting to discuss the
details.
Commissioner Holmes asked was the purchase price in the range previously discussed.
Manager Baker replied, yes.
Commissioner Holmes asked for an update on Johnson Controls, Red Light Camera and
sidewalks/drainage infrastructure.
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes—01/23/2013 11
Manager Baker said the meters are scheduled to arrive in February and will then
aggressively begin to replace them.
He further mentioned that the Red Light Camera contract is scheduled for expiration in
April 2013 and he will be speaking to the City Commission for directives.
He continued by saying that legislation is scheduled to come before the City Commission
at the next Regular Commission meeting asking for authorization to prepare a Master
Plan to document all the infrastructure needs of the city.
Commissioner Holmes said he is pleased with the City Commission working together as
a team to move the city forward.
He further asked for an update as it relates to parking at Sherbondy Village.
Manager Baker said staff is working with the church for parking because they want the
parking to be close to the building.
Commissioner Holmes said he has concerns with the parking being at the church because
of the children having to cross the street which may be a liability for the city.
Vice Mayor Kelley said at the Crime Watch Reception a question was asked with regards
to the number of Code Enforcement Officers the city has and staff stated that there are
only three Code Enforcement officers assigned to one particular area. That is not his
understanding of how Code Enforcement works.
He requested a written follow up as to the structure and process being used for addressing
Code Compliance.
He heard the City Manager say that one of the reasons the city has chosen JVA
Engineering is because they are mobilized.
Manager Baker said they are not mobilized yet.
Vice Mayor Kelley said when the City Manager gives an update on items that have been
requested, the status or plan of action is ambiguous.
He wanted the City Manager to give an update as to how he is addressing the illegal
company that was referenced by a citizen at a previous Commission meeting. The city is
allowing the company to remain open, which sends precedence that someone can open a
company then worry about the city catching up with them later.
He asked, is this a legal situation where the city can not stop the company from opening?
Manager Baker replied, yes.
Attorney Geller said he is not familiar with the issue but he will speak to one of his
assistants to get an update and meet with the City Manager.
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes—01/23/2013 12
Commissioner Holmes said the Vice Mayor is asking why the city can not close the
business for not going through the proper procedures.
Vice Mayor Kelley directed the City Attorney to prepare legislation that will address his
concerns.
Attorney Geller said he will look at available legal options.
Commissioner Holmes suggested that the City Manager take action on his staff that
approved the Occupational License.
Vice Mayor Kelley said he read the City Manager's response with regards to the Jobs
Initiative,but he still believes there are citizens that can benefit from employment.
He expressed his concerns relating to a document received from the City Manager
regarding work being done by FDOT and the document has Lavelle Jenrette as the city's
contact person. This information needs to be corrected.
Manager Baker said that document was not developed by his office, it came from FDOT.
Vice Mayor Kelley said he brought it up because it's attached to the City Manager's
letterhead and it came from the City Manager.
Mayor Taylor asked, what is the status of the Helen L. Miller project?
Manager Baker said a notice was issued for a RFP and they are expecting to receive
proposals within a few weeks.
Mayor Taylor asked, why hasn't the Blanford property located on Veterans Way been
demolished?
She further said there are a lot of overgrown lots in the city and she should not have to
inform staff of overgrown lots. She made reference to a car lot located on 27th Avenue
going north, which is now closed. If a business is closed the property needs to be
manicured.
Commissioner Santiago said he received a telephone call from the previous owner of the
car lot and was informed that the bank owns the property and that individual is interested
in purchasing it. The city informed him that the area is not zoned for a car dealership.
Mayor Taylor said if the bank owns the property, then staff needs to contact them to have
the property manicured.
She further stated that she would like to see some aggression with Code Enforcement and
other departments.
Mayor Taylor said Miami-Dade County is doing work on 130th Terrace and 28th Avenue
and a Portable Potty was placed in front of a citizen's home.
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes—01/23/2013 13
Esin Daniel Abia, Public Works Director for the city said that when he received the
telephone call from the Mayor he informed her that Miami-Dade County was doing the
work and they did not notify the city as to what was being done.
Commissioner Holmes said Code Enforcement needs to close the project if they don't
have a permit.
Vice Mayor Kelley said he agrees with Commissioner Holmes, however, he have
discovered that Miami-Dade County is making contact with staff but it is not being
reported to the City Manager.
B. ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:
Dr. Orji, Finance Director came forward and stated that all documents required for his
report are part of the package provided to the Commission.
20. OFFICIAL BOARD REPORTS:
21. CITY ATTORNEY'S REPORT:
Attorney Geller reported that the Burton litigation came to conclusion with the jury.
Originally there were seven plaintiffs, six of those were dismissed. The city will be
appealing the one case that received an award,because they feel it was not warranted.
He further mentioned that he attended the Presidential Inauguration in Washington, DC.
22. CITY CLERK'S REPORT:
23. MAYOR/COMMISSION REPORT:
Commissioner Holmes reported that he had the opportunity to watch the Presidential
Inauguration on TV and it was a historic moment.
Commissioner Santiago thanked the citizens of the City of Opa-locka for allowing him
the opportunity to visit Washington, DC for the Presidential Inauguration.
Vice Mayor Kelley reported that he attended a Press Conference with Congresswoman
Frederica Wilson on January 11, 2013.
He hosted a Crime Watch Reception meeting which was well attended. He thanked the
City Clerk's Office for organizing the meeting.
He further reported that he received confirmation from State Representative Stafford's
Office regarding the signage for 1-95.
He directed the City Attorney to provide a resolution regarding I-95 signage.
Vice Mayor Kelley further reported that he attended the 5000 Role Models breakfast
show casing young men doing positive things.
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes—01/23/2013 14
He thanked everyone for their participation in the MLK Walk on January 19, 2013.
He mentioned that so often people don't know what's going on within the city, therefore,
he started showcasing city departments.
With regards to the MLK Parade, he said should the city plan to attend in the future he
would like to be on a float to reduce the cost.
He further stated that the Carrie Meek foundation has the lease agreement at the airport
and he is working on an update as it relates to the development progress. There is a great
need for development on the city's side, which may have a positive impact for the
citizens.
Vice Mayor Kelley said that Miami-Dade County has a job initiative program employing
youth ages 14-21 and the city needs to make sure our youth gets the information.
Mayor Taylor reported that the city will start airing the Commission meetings in Spanish.
She further urged everyone to join her on January 25, 2013 @ 7:00 p.m. for the State of
the City Address.
24. OFFICIAL BOARD APPOINTMENTS:
25. ADJOURNMENT:
There being no further business to come before the Commission, it was moved by
Commissioner Holmes, seconded by Vice Mayor Kelley to adjourn the meeting at 8:55
p.m.
4
M F OR
ATTEST:
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CITY CLERK
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes—01/23/2013 15