HomeMy Public PortalAbout03- March 12, 2014 Meeting Minutes CITY OF OPA-LOCKA
"The Great City"
CLERK'S ACTION SUMMARY MINUTES
REGULAR COMMISSION MEETING
March 12, 2014
7:00 P.M.
City Commission Chambers at Sherbondy Village
215 President Barack Obama (Perviz) Avenue
Opa-locka,FL 33054
1. CALL TO ORDER:
Mayor Myra L. Taylor called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, March 12,
2014 in the City Commission Chambers at Sherbondy Village, 215 President Barack
Obama(Perviz) Avenue, Opa-locka, Florida.
2. ROLL CALL:
The following members of the City Commission were present: Vice Mayor Joseph L.
Kelley, Commissioner Dorothy Johnson, Commissioner Luis B. Santiago, 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.
3. INVOCATION:
The Invocation was delivered by Newall Daughtrey.
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: 19-1 and 19-2 (Commissioner Johnson).
Vice Mayor Kelley deferred agenda item 18B1 until the March 26, 2014 Regular
Commission Meeting.
It was moved by Commissioner Johnson, seconded by Commissioner Santiago to
approve the agenda, consent agenda and pull list.
There being no discussion, the motion passed by a 5-0 vote.
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes—03/12/2014 1
Commissioner Santiago Yes
Commissioner Holmes Yes
Vice Mayor Kelley Yes
Commissioner Johnson 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 INCLUDE THE OPA-LOCKA WOMEN'S INITIATIVE
(OWI) AS AN OFFICIAL ENTITY OF THE CITY OF OPA-LOCKA; PROVIDING
FOR INCORPORATION OF RECITALS; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
Sponsored by M.T.
No action was taken on the above item.
7. AWARDS/PROCLAMATIONS/ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS:
8. APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
Regular Commission Meeting—02/26/2014
It was moved by Commissioner Johnson, seconded by Commissioner Santiago to
approve the minutes of the Regular Commission Meeting of February 26, 2014.
There being no discussion, the motion passed by a 5-0 vote.
Commissioner Holmes Yes
Vice Mayor Kelley Yes
Commissioner Johnson Yes
Commissioner Santiago Yes
Mayor Taylor Yes
9. 17`h CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT OF FLORIDA REPORT:
10. STATE SENATORS REPORT:
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 said he did not have any reports or announcements at this time, but he will
be glad to take back any concerns or issues to Commissioner Jordan.
Commissioner Holmes asked for an update on his request for additional busses.
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes—03/12/2014 2
Mr. Gardner said nothing has changed, but he will be in contact with Commissioner
Holmes once he receives an update.
Commissioner Holmes said the City Clerk's Office contacted Miami-Dade County to
request additional street co-designation signs and it was brought to his attention that a
staff member from Miami-Dade County said the city's co-designation signs were done
illegal and they must go before the Board of County Commissioners.
Mr. Gardner said he did speak to the City Clerk's Office. Jason Smith, Intergovernmental
Affairs Coordinator is working with Miami-Dade County Public Works Department and
the County Attorney's Office; he will contact the city once he receives a response.
Commissioner Holmes said he supported Dr. Ingram Street co-designation in the 90's
and he wants to know why the street co-designations are now illegal. He requested
written proof on the county's street co-designation policy.
13. MIAMI-DADE COUNTY FIRE RESCUE DEPARTMENT REPORT:
14. PUBLIC PRESENTATION:
1. Suzan McDowell
Circle of One Marketing,Inc.
Suzan McDowell, President & CEO of Circle of One Marketing Inc., 2400 NE 2nd
Avenue, Miami, FL 33137 came forward and said she is pleased to have been selected by
the City Manager to produce a first class event for the City of Opa-locka.
Mrs. McDowell said Circle of One Marketing Inc. are experts at producing top notch
events. They have been involved with Jazz in the Gardens since 2006 and it is her
understanding that the City of Opa-locka would like to create a multi-cultural signature
festival in order to enhance the city's branding.
Commissioner Santiago said he is happy to know that Circle of One Marketing is capable
of organizing a signature event to include everyone.
14a. CITIZENS' FORUM:
1. Jannette Arline of 2324 Service Road, Opa-locka, Florida, appeared before the
City Commission and spoke about the problems she has been experiencing with parking
on Service Road.
Mrs. Arline said an incident occurred on 22nd Avenue and traffic had to detour down
Service Road which was an inconvenience to the citizens in the area.
Commissioner Johnson asked for an explanation as to what caused the traffic to detour.
Manager Baker said an accident occurred which caused a power failure.
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes—03/12/2014 3
2. Jason Kline of 3731 SW 47th Avenue, Ste. 401, Davie, Florida, appeared before
the City Commission and stated that he is one of the owners of Remediation Group. They
submitted an RFP for the Restoration of Historic City Hall and they were the lowest
bidder. His company was ranked number one by the Evaluation Committee and after
calling the City of Opa-locka today we was informed that the City Commission went
against the recommendation of the Evaluation Committee and awarded the project to the
second ranked company.
3. Deborah Sheffield Irby of 14202 NW 17th Avenue, Opa-locka, Florida, appeared
before the City Commission and addressed the concerns regarding the street co-
designation signs. She said in the past the City Commission passed legislation then it was
forwarded to Miami-Dade County Sign Division and it was never an issue. She further
spoke regarding the city's health insurance. According to United Healthcare, the city's
bill has not been paid since January. She makes payments directly to United Healthcare
and since she's on the city's group coverage her insurance was canceled. She asked that
someone look into the problem because she does not want to be held responsible for
health bills.
Mrs. Irby said it has been brought to her attention that a business is coming to the
previous liquor store location on 22nd Avenue and Wilmington Street. She said the
citizens deserve the right to know what is coming to that location.
4. Alvin Burke of 1240 Jann Avenue, Opa-locka, Florida, appeared before the City
Commission and spoke about the City Commission regarding their attendance at the
Parks & Recreation programs. He said the kids had a good black history performance and
Commissioner Holmes was the only elected official in attendance. He stressed the
importance of the City Commission supporting the kids in the Parks & Recreation
Department.
5. Johnnie M. Greene of 2091 Wilmington Street, Opa-locka, Florida, appeared
before the City Commission and spoke regarding the heavy traffic on Wilmington Street.
Last week people were sitting under tents selling food along the lake, therefore she called
the police to address the heavy traffic.
Ms. Greene said the citizens on Wilmington Street are requesting that the City
Commission stop the people from using Jet Skis at the Lake on Wilmington Street.
She further said Sunday the traffic light was out on 22nd Avenue & Rutland Street and
young men from the community were directing traffic, she will get their names because
they did an excellent job.
Ms. Greene said she visited a business on Cairo Lane and the streets in that area are
deplorable.
Commissioner Santiago said Ms. Greene is welcome to call the Police whenever she feels
the need to do so.
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes—03/12/2014 4
Commissioner Johnson said after research she discovered that Cairo Lane is in a
deplorable condition. She requested a written update on the status of getting started on
Cairo Lane.
She further said she has received several calls regarding the heavy traffic on Wilmington
Street due to the people riding jet skis. She is in support of public safety, therefore she
requested legislation to address the issue and get closure.
Vice Mayor Kelley said the Wilmington Street traffic and Jet Ski riding is not a new issue
and he was under the impression that a policy was in place.
He said he does not want to hear comments from the City Manager; he wants to hear an
action plan. The last time this occurred, the City Commission gave a directive for the
City Manager to meet with both parties and come up with a plan that included both
parties and bring it back to the City Commission.
Vice Mayor Kelley said he has concerns when he hear citizens had to direct traffic when
that should have been done by the Police Department.
He requested to see a Plan of Action as to what will happen regarding Wilmington Street
Jet Ski Riding.
Commissioner Holmes said when the Jet Ski riding first started he was the main person
against it because of the manatees in the water while some of his colleagues asked him to
turn his head and allow them to ride jet skis.
He further said he will not tell a citizen not to call the police in the event of an
emergency. He respond when he is asked to, therefore he went on Wilmington Street and
tried to resolve the problem.
6. Terence Pinder of 250 Sabur Lane, Opa-locka, Florida, appeared before the City
Commission and spoke regarding the importance of summer jobs, status of bus benches
franchise fees, and an audit for each employee in the city not receiving an increase.
He further said the cost of living is increasing while the employees' salaries are not
increasing. In addition the employees received a $500.00 Christmas bonus when they
should be receiving $1,000.00.
Mr. Pinder said the residents of the city want to be included in Town Hall Meetings.
He further requested an update on the city's plan to annex.
Mr. Pinder said the city spent money to build a gateway on 27th Avenue, but if the city is
approved for annexation then that area will not be the gateway of the city.
Commissioner Johnson said the employees have been receiving a $500.00 Christmas
Bonus consistently; however she does agree that is not enough. She met with the City
Manager today and she requested legislation for the pay schedule because she notices
new employees are being hired making more than the existing staff.
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes—03/12/2014 5
As it relates to the city's annexation, Commissioner Johnson said the item was deferred
by Miami-Dade County Board of County Commissioners, but going forth the city will
need the support of the residents.
Mayor Taylor said a Town Hall Meeting will be scheduled to address the concerns
regarding annexation.
15. ACTION ITEMS (items from consent agenda pull list):
1. (19-1) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF
OPA-LOCKA, FLORIDA, AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO ENTER INTO
A MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING (MOU) AGREEMENT WITH
INSPIRATIONAL FITNESS, INC., IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED FIFTY
DOLLARS ($50.00) PER CLASS, PAYABLE FROM ACCOUNT NUMBER 72-
572485; 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 Johnson, seconded by Commissioner Santiago to pass
the resolution.
Commissioner Johnson thanked the City Manager for sponsoring the above legislation.
She said she is aware that some of the citizens previously participated in exercise classes,
but it is her understanding that this legislation is for all age groups. She asked the City
Manager is that correct?
Manager Baker replied, yes.
Commissioner Johnson asked the City Manager is it correct that the citizens will not pay
a cost to utilize the exercise equipment that is being purchased by the city?
Manager Baker replied, yes.
Commissioner Johnson asked, has the City Attorney reviewed the general liability or will
it be a clause on the registration to protect the city?
Attorney Geller said he reviewed the agreement and it is satisfactory, but the registration
documents have to be developed and they will also include a disclaimer.
Commissioner Johnson directed the City Attorney and City Manager to work together on
the documents regarding the above legislation.
She said everyone participating in the program must complete a registration form and it
must include legal sufficiency.
Vice Mayor Kelley said he notice the backup document referenced to a certain type of
chairs. He asked, were chairs purchased?
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes—03/12/2014
He further said he heard the comments made by the City Attorney, however that did not
give him a comfort level to make sure the city is not held liable.
Attorney Geller said the attachment included in the agenda packets is a draft contract
between the city and the organization and they furnished it to the city. When citizens
enroll in the class there will be documents they are required to sign.
He further said when you have someone participating in this kind of event there is a
certain kind of risk you inherit and if you want to offer the program, you have to
understand that you cannot pass anything that says if someone is hurt they cannot sue the
city, because they can.
Vice Mayor Kelley said he worked for Parks & Recreation for over 17 years and he is
familiar with the liability of people wanting to sue. His question was, has the City
Attorney reviewed the document that citizens will fill out when they enroll in the
program.
Attorney Geller said that document has not been created yet, but his office will have a
part in creating it.
Vice Mayor Kelley offered an amendment that will be inclusive of the registration form.
Commissioner Johnson said this program was adding to the OpaSteppers that she started
in 2005 and the document used to register for that program already have legal
sufficiency, she was hoping a sample would have been provided to the City Commission
for their review. She said the City Clerk's office should have a copy of the OpaSteppers
registration form, if not she will provide a copy to the City Manager and City Attorney.
It was moved by Vice Mayor Kelley, seconded by Commissioner Johnson to amend the
end of section 2 to read as follows AND WITH ALL PARTICIPANTS TO SIGN
APPROPRIATE RELEASE OF LIABILITY FORMS.
There being no further discussion, the motion on the amendment passed by a 5-0 vote.
Commissioner Johnson Yes
Commissioner Santiago Yes
Commissioner Holmes Yes
Vice Mayor Kelley Yes
Mayor Taylor Yes
Attorney Geller said he will meet with Commissioner Johnson to review the document
and make any necessary revisions.
There being no further discussion, the motion passed by a 5-0 vote.
Vice Mayor Kelley Yes
Commissioner Johnson Yes
Commissioner Santiago Yes
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes—03/12/2014 7
Commissioner Holmes Yes
Mayor Taylor Yes
2. (19-2) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF
OPA-LOCKA, FLORIDA, TO AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO NEGOTIATE
AND ENTER INTO AN AGREEMENT WITH CIRCLE OF ONE MARKETING, INC.,
TO DEVELOP AND PROMOTE AN ANNUAL SIGNATURE EVENT/FESTIVAL
THAT WILL ATTRACT RESIDENTS AND TOURISTS TO THE GREAT CITY OF
OPA-LOCKA, IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $40,000, PAYABLE FROM
ACCOUNT NUMBER 19-519312, A BUDGETED ITEM; 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 Johnson, seconded by Commissioner Santiago to pass
the resolution.
Commissioner Santiago said he is happy to see the Arabian Nights Festival come back as
the city's signature event; maybe it can have a different name to attract additional people.
He said the idea is to bring revenue to the city and he wants to be sure the company is
capable of that.
Commissioner Santiago said one of his concerns is the amount of money budgeted to pay
the company. He said the city is going to invest $40,000 because it is his belief that the
event will make the money back.
Manager Baker said it is not guaranteed the city will make the money back, the concept is
to have the event planner go out to see what's available to present a proposal to the City
Commission and based on that they will begin to look at the figures.
Commissioner Santiago said the city does not have a facility that will hold the amount of
people they would like to see.
He asked is $40,000 sufficient to start the process of searching for a new signature event?
Manager Baker said the amount of money is enough to hire the company; however it's
going to be based on what they are able to bring back to the City Commission. Some
events produce revenue while other may not.
In terms of location, Manager Baker said it was his intention that the event be held at the
Opa-locka Airport being that it's sufficient in size.
Commissioner Johnson said the city's last Arabian Nights Festival was held at the Opa-
locka Executive Airport, so there is enough space.
For the record, Commissioner Johnson said after the last Arabian Nights Festival when
the City Commission agreed not to have another Arabian Nights Festival, she bought that
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes—03/12/2014 8
name and she will be willing to give it back to the city. She felt that name was with the
city for years and as a citizen she took the privilege of purchasing the name.
Commissioner Johnson said she has a heartburn after looking at the budget and notice
$150,000 for special events and the city is currently 120% in the hole so this event has to
be no cost to the city.
Commissioner Holmes said he is aware of the Arabian Nights Festival and he understand
what is colleagues is trying to do which is good, but he have a heartburn to see the city
spend $40,000 for an event planner when there are employees that cannot afford to pay
their bills and cannot afford to pay the insurance deductible. A signature event is good for
the city, but this is not the appropriate time. The city needs to find money to help the
employees because they are hurting.
Vice Mayor Kelley said he is disappointed that this came back in its current form oppose
to a meeting forum. He is aware of the company and their qualifications, it's no reflection
on the company, but he is torn when the employees are suffering with the insurance. He
cannot see spending $40,000 to come up with a plan. The city should not be spending that
type of money until the furlough days are discontinued and the pay scale is up and
running that addresses inequity.
He said he know that city needs a signature event, but he cannot support the legislation at
this time.
Vice Mayor Kelley further said if$40,000 is available he would like to create additional
jobs for citizens. In addition, if the city has $40,000 he would like the City Manager to
discontinue furlough days tomorrow, deal with the pay inequity scale, and deal with the
insurance problem.
Mayor Taylor said she feels the pain of the employees, but the point of the festival is to
raise additional money for the city to be able to put money out for the employees. She
said she will support the legislation because any company that is hired will not work for
free.
Mayor Taylor asked, is this a budgeted item?
Manager Baker replied, yes.
There being no further discussion, the motion failed by a 3-2 vote.
Commissioner Santiago Yes
Commissioner Holmes No
Vice Mayor Kelley No
Commissioner Johnson No
Mayor Taylor Yes
16. NEW ITEMS:
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes—03/12/2014 9
17. PLANNING & ZONING:
A. HEARINGS:
B. APPEALS:
18. ORDINANCES/RESOLUTIONS/PUBLIC HEARING:
A. SECOND READING/PUBLIC HEARING:
B. RESOLUTIONS/PUBLIC HEARING:
19. ADMINISTRATION:
CONSENT AGENDA:
A. CITY MANAGER'S REPORT:
Manager Baker addressed the citizen's concerns regarding the Wilmington Street jet
skiing. He said he had an opportunity to meet with the gentlemen that occupies the lake
and at that time he informed them that the activity will cease immediately because that
area is not an area insured by the city's general liability policy so they are not in a
position to have any activities at that location. In addition, the city is not in a position to
grant any permits because they will be assuming liability of those activities.
He stated that the Human Resources Department is currently in the process of preparing a
pay scale for all positions within the organization. Once the study is complete he will
present it to the AFSCME Union. He is scheduled to meet with the bargaining unit
concerning the contract, in that contract they are looking at salary increases.
Manager Baker reported that a tracker trailer pulled down a major feeder line that caused
a power outage on 22nd Avenue this past Sunday. The city's police officers were on the
scene directing traffic and he thank the citizens that assisted with the traffic flow.
He reported the work being done at the former liquor store on 22nd Avenue is due to code
violations. One related to a permit for a new roof and the other is for painting.
Manager Baker said Cairo Lane improvements are part of the citywide master plan to
address the infrastructure and he is in the process of finalizing the funding plan.
The city is continuing its efforts regarding annexation and they are waiting on a date to
appear before the annexation review board, then it will go before the Board of County
Commissioners.
Manager Baker reported that there was a problem with the city's health insurance and it
was not an issue of the city not having funds. They have put plans in place to prevent this
from occurring in the future. All policies are current and active at this point.
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes—03/12/2014 10
He have met with several financial institutions regarding financing for City Hall, they
have yet to receive the proper documents that will be acceptable, he will keep the City
Commission abreast of any changes.
The city has received approval to start restoration at Historic City Hall. In addition, a
notice to proceed has been issued for the Rutland Street and the Gateway Projects.
Manager Baker introduced the city's new Community Development Director, Mr.
Gregory Gay.
Manager Baker informed the City Commission that he have hired a Risk Manager that
comes with much experience.
Commissioner Johnson directed the City Manager to post "No swimming/No Jet Skiing"
signs along Wilmington Street.
With regards to the pay schedule, Commissioner Johnson said she will be sponsoring
legislation because she is interesting in the bargaining unit employees coming into
compliance with the pay schedule.
She further said the City Manager mentioned at the previous Commission Meeting that
the tracker trailers were going to be removed from the lot located on 135th Street and 34th
Avenue, however she notice it became a parking lot for trailers.
Manager Baker said the owner of the property has been cited and based on the city's code
they have a certain amount of time to comply.
Commissioner Johnson said she notices a lot of businesses doing outdoor painting and
she is concerned about the environment.
She expressed her heartburn regarding the city's health insurance payments. Wiring
payments to the insurance company is fine, but to be behind and miss the grace period is
unacceptable. There is a need for corrective action.
She said she is pleased that the City Manager and Finance Director have taken an
aggressive approach in collecting outstanding funds owed to the city.
Commissioner Johnson asked, has a date been set to meet with the business owners on
Cairo Lane?
Manager Baker said a date has not been set, but it is on top on the list because it's a
priority.
Commissioner Johnson said a large sign is on 22nd Avenue & Veterans Way that says "In
need of an Attorney", the city has legislation regarding signage and it needs to be adhered
to.
She said this is her fifth time requesting signage on East Superior Street near Porter's
Locksmith.
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes—03/12/2014 11
Commissioner Santiago suggested that the City Manager close the area of Wilmington
Street with a fence to stop people from utilizing the lake.
He further said someone needs to be held responsible for the city's health insurance
coverage lapsing.
Commissioner Holmes requested an update on the Tahoe vehicles and radios for the
police department.
Manager Baker said the vehicles and radios were ordered and he will provide a written
update on the arrival date.
Commissioner Holmes said some employees are having a hard time paying their
insurance deductible, perhaps the city can pass legislation to assist the employees pay the
cost and they reimburse the city over a time frame.
Commissioner Holmes directed the City Attorney to prepare legislation for the March
26th Commission Meeting to assist city employees pay their hospital deductible.
He said the LEO Awards was a beautiful event and one of the city's Police Officers was
nominated, however the city purchased tickets for the event and several seats were
empty.
Vice Mayor Kelley said it was agreed to end furlough days in March and he did not hear
the City Manager comment on the status.
He asked is it a timeframe for scheduling a meeting with the business owners on Cairo
Lane?
Manager Baker said his preference it to have everything resolved with the state before
scheduling a meeting with the Business Owners. He is expecting to receive the final
documents by the end of April.
Vice Mayor Kelley suggested that the City Manager send a correspondence to the
business community informing them that the city have not forgotten about them and the
meeting will commence in April.
He asked is the former liquor on 22nd Avenue still zoned for a liquor store?
Manager Baker said he provide a written answer.
Vice Mayor asked for the status the audit and rate study.
Manager Baker said the rate study is complete, but the water, sewer, stormwater, and
impact fee study is about 25% complete.
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes—03/12/2014 12
Vice Mayor Kelley echoed the concerns from his colleagues regarding the city's health
insurance. He requested a written Plan of Action as to what will be done to make sure the
insurance issues does not continue.
Mayor Taylor spoke regarding the city's maintenance, if the city does not maintain its
properties; they cannot ask the residents to maintain their property. The median on 37th
Avenue is filled with leaves; secondly overgrown bushes are on 135th Street, she asked if
the city cut that property can they bill CSX?
She asked, who is responsible for maintaining the land in front of businesses and homes?
Mayor Taylor mentioned that Public Works utilize the vacant land next to the train
station; however it needs to be cut.
She further directed the City Manager to remove all signage throughout the city to buy
houses and cars.
Manager Baker said usually if the city cut the grass on CSX property, the city will not be
reimbursed.
B. ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:
Susan Gooding-Liburd, Finance Director came forward and stated that all documents
required for her report are part of the package provided to the Commission. The report
includes the cash requirement report for payment due on February 26, 2014, revenue
audit trail and expenditure audit trail for February 2014. The reserve account balance has
increased to $231,947.86.
She said the city is very much aggressively going after outstanding utility bills. They
have mailed approximately 700 collection letters and they notice an increase in the utility
collection for the month of February as a result of those letters being mailed.
Vice Mayor Kelley said he will schedule a meeting with Mrs. Liburd to discuss the city's
audit.
Commissioner Johnson said she is proud to hear the progress of collecting outstanding
utility bills. She asked, is there a policy in place to make sure no one gets a write off?
Mrs. Liburd said she will provide a written plan for the City Commission to review.
Commissioner Johnson said she think it is important that the general fund is separate
from the other funds.
Commissioner Santiago said he had an opportunity to meet with the Finance Director and
he noticed many improvements to the report.
20. OFFICIAL BOARD REPORTS:
21. CITY ATTORNEY'S REPORT:
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes—03/12/2014 13
Attorney Geller said he submitted his report in writing; however he will answer any
concerns the City Commission has.
Commissioner Johnson said any legislation passed by the City Commission, she expect
the City Attorney to review the supporting documentation for legal sufficiency.
She directed the City Attorney to set time aside to have dialogue with the City
Commission prior to the Commission Meeting.
Commissioner Johnson said she will be sponsoring legislation to update the pay schedule
and there is a need for dialogue with AFSCME.
Vice Mayor Kelley said he echoes the concerns of Commissioner Johnson regarding the
pay schedule and he would like to be a co-sponsor on the legislation requested by
Commissioner Johnson.
22. CITY CLERK'S REPORT:
Clerk Flores said she submitted a written report and will be happy to address concerns
from the City Commission.
Commissioner Johnson asked for the status of the city's boards.
Clerk Flores said each board has met with the exception of the Civil Service Board
because they are having an issue with getting a quorum. In addition, training was
provided to all the board members.
23. MAYOR/COMMISSION REPORT:
Commissioner Johnson said will be sponsoring a campaign for the business owners that
maintain their property.
She announced that the kids are preparing for FCAT, therefore Family Night Out will be
canceled for the month of March.
Commissioner Johnson stated that she was not in attendance at the LEO Awards Gala
because her husband was ill and she informed Major Cruz that she was unable to attend
the event.
Commissioner Santiago thanked his colleagues and the Office of the City Clerk for
celebrating his birthday with him.
He further said he will be sponsoring the 4th of July event this year and he has a company
that will sponsor the event.
Commissioner Holmes said he don't want his colleagues to lose focus on what needs to
be done in the city.
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes—03/12/2014 14
Vice Mayor Kelley thanked the City Manager and the Human Resources Department for
working on the internship program.
He thanked Sha'mecca Lawson and the City Manager's staff for their assistance with the
Community Re-entry Fair and it is his understanding that it was a great success.
Vice Mayor Kelley invited everyone to participate in the Easter Fellowship &
Community Feeding on April 12, 2014 at Sherbondy Village Pavilion.
He said one of the challenges the local churches are facing is beautification, so through
the Faithbased initiative he will be assisting some of the religious organizations with
beautifying the churches.
Vice Mayor Kelley said the Seniors Fishing Trip is scheduled for April 21, 2014.
Mayor Taylor said she noticed the Fire Hydrants and they look nice.
She acknowledged the City Clerk's Office for recognizing Commissioner Santiago's
birthday.
Mayor Taylor said the Opa-locka Women's Initiative will be hosting a luncheon on
March 29, 2014 at 11:00 a.m. at the Helen Miller Center in recognition of Women's
History Month.
She said she was disturbed that the women were not embraced by the City Commission
and they need the support of the city.
Mayor Taylor asked Vice Mayor Kelley to take her place representing the city at the
League of Cities.
It was moved by Mayor Taylor, seconded by Commissioner Johnson to allow Vice
Mayor Kelley to represent the City of Opa-locka with the League of Cities.
There being no further discussion, the motion to amend the agenda passed by a 5-0 vote.
Vice Mayor Kelley Yes
Commissioner Johnson Yes
Commissioner Santiago Yes
Commissioner Holmes Yes
Mayor Taylor Yes
There being no further discussion, the motion passed by a 4-0 vote.
Commissioner Johnson Yes
Commissioner Santiago Yes
Vice Mayor Kelley Out of room
Commissioner Holmes Yes
Mayor Taylor Yes
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes—03/12/2014 15
24. OFFICIAL BOARD APPOINTMENTS:
25. ADJOURNMENT:
There being no further business to come before the Commission, it was moved by
Commissioner Santiago, seconded by Vice Mayor Kelley to adjourn the meeting at 9:28
p.m.
/, OP
MAYOR
ATTEST:
4_L . .. . 1. �
' CITY CLERK
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes—03/12/2014 16