HomeMy Public PortalAbout2006-07-18 Regular Meeting431
BAL HARBOUR VILLAGE COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
REGULAR MEETING - JULY 18, 2006
The Regular Meeting of the Bal Harbour Village Council was held on Tuesday, July 18, 2006,
at Bal Harbour Village Hall (655 — 96th Street, Bal Harbour, Florida).
1. CALL TO ORDER/ROLL CALL: The meeting was called to order at 9:00
a.m. by Mayor Roth. The following were present:
Mayor Seymour "Sy" Roth
Assistant Mayor Howard J. Berlin'
Councilman Joel S. Jacobi2
Councilman Jean Rosenfield
Councilman Jaime M. Sanz
Alfred J. Treppeda, Village Manager
Ellisa Horvath, CMC, Village Clerk
Andrea Greenblatt, Admin. Assistant
Richard J. Weiss, Village Attorney
As a quorum was determined to be present, the meeting commenced.
2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: The Pledge was led by former Police
Lieutenant Jose Andrade.
3. APPROVAL OF MINUTES:A motion was offered by Councilman Jacobi and
seconded by Councilman Rosenfeld to approve the minutes of the June 20, 2006, Regular
Council Meeting, as submitted. The motion carried unanimously (5-0).
4. PRESENTATIONS:
Officer of the Month for June 2006: Captain Jay Smith was presented
with a plaque by Chief Hunker, as Officer of the Month for June 2006, in recognition of his
work as Accreditation Manager.
Officer of the Year for 2005: Officer Madeleine Orr was presented with a
plaque by Chief Hunker, as Officer of the Year for 2005, in recognition of her heroic efforts
in rescuing two victims from a capsized .boat. Hans Altenhoff, Sheraton Bal Harbour
General Manager, presented Officer Orr with an item. Mayor Roth presented Officer Orr
with items from the Sea View Hotel and the Bal Harbour Shops.
Employee of the Month for June 2006: Patricia Andrade, Finance
Department, was presented with a plaque by Mrs. Horvath, as Employee of the Month for
June 2006, in recognition of her assistance in the Building Department.
1 Assistant Mayor Berlin left the meeting during discussion of the beach access (Other Business).
2 Councilman Jacobi left the meeting during discussion of the beach access (Other Business).
Bal Harbour Village Regular Council Meeting Minutes 07/18/2006
1
42
5. ORDINANCES SECOND READING/PUBLIC HEARING:
The following Ordinance was read by title, by Mrs. Horvath:
AN ORDINANCE OF BAL HARBOUR VILLAGE, FLORIDA, AMENDING THE
VILLAGE CODE CHAPTER 21 "ZONING," ARTICLE I "IN GENERAL," BY
AMENDING SECTION 21-1 "DEFINITIONS AND RULES OF CONSTRUCTION"
AND BY CREATING SECTION 21-5 "EXPIRATION OF DEVELOPMENT
ORDERS"; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING FOR INCLUSION IN
THE CODE; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
Mayor Roth opened the public hearing.
Mr. Weiss noted that a letter was received from Attorney Carter McDowell and
recommended that the Ordinance be deferred until the regular Council Meeting on
September 19, 2006 at 4:00 p.m., to allow for review of the letter.
There being no additional comments, Mayor Roth closed the public hearing.
A motion was offered by Councilman Sanz and seconded by Assistant Mayor Berlin to defer this
Ordinance until the next Regular Council Meeting, on September 19, 2006, at 4:00 p.m. The
motion carried unanimously, with the roll call vote as follows: Mayor Roth yes; Assistant Mayor
Berlin yes; Councilman Jacobi yes; Councilman Rosenfield yes; Councilman Sanz yes.
The following Ordinance was read by title, by Mrs. Horvath:
AN ORDINANCE OF BAL HARBOUR VILLAGE, FLORIDA, AMENDING THE
VILLAGE CODE BY AMENDING CHAPTER 13 "PENSIONS AND RETIREMENT
BENEFITS" AT ARTICLE II "EMPLOYEES PENSION PLAN" BY AMENDING
SECTION 13-29 "DEATH BENEFITS" TO ALLOW FOR PAYMENT OF CERTAIN
NON -SERVICE INCURRED DEATH BENEFITS OVER AN EXTENDED PERIOD
OF TIME; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING FOR INCLUSION IN
THE CODE; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
Mayor Roth opened the public hearing. There being no comments, Mayor Roth closed the
public hearing.
A motion was offered by Councilman Jacobi and seconded by Councilman Rosenfield to approve.
The motion carried with the roll call vote as follows: Mayor Roth yes; Assistant Mayor Berlin yes;
Councilman Jacobi yes; Councilman Rosenfield yes; Councilman Sanz yes; thus becoming
Ordinance 509.
The following Ordinance was read by title, by Mrs. Horvath:
AN ORDINANCE OF BAL HARBOUR VILLAGE, FLORIDA, AMENDING THE
VILLAGE CODE BY AMENDING CHAPTER 2 "ADMINISTRATION" BY
CREATING ARTICLE VIII "EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT" CONSISTING OF
SECTION 2-350 THROUGH AND INCLUDING SECTION 2-361 TO PROVIDE
NECESSARY AND APPROPRIATE EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT
AUTHORIZATIONS, RESPONSIBILTIES AND PROCEDURES; PROVIDING FOR
SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING FOR INCLUSION IN CODE; PROVIDING FOR
Bal Harbour Village Regular Council Meeting Minutes 07/18/2006 2
433
EFFECTIVE DATE.
Mr. Weiss explained that the Ordinance gives the Village Manager additional power, to help
operations during the course of an emergency.
Mayor Roth opened the public hearing. There being no comments, Mayor Roth closed the
public hearing.
A motion was offered by Councilman Jacobi and seconded by Councilman Sanz to approve. The
motion carried with the roll call vote as follows: Mayor Roth yes; Assistant Mayor Berlin yes;
Councilman Jacobi yes; Councilman Rosenfield yes; Councilman Sanz yes; thus becoming
Ordinance 510.
6. ORDINANCES FIRST READING: None.
7. RESOLUTIONS/PUBLIC HEARINGS: None.
8. RESOLUTION: The following resolution was read by title, by Mrs. Horvath:
RESOLUTION OF THE VILLAGE COUNCIL OF BAL HARBOUR VILLAGE,
FLORIDA, PROVIDING FOR THE SUBMISSION TO THE VILLAGE ELECTORS
A PROPOSED AMENDMENT TO THE VILLAGE CHARTER, AS PROVIDED BY
PETITION OF ELECTORS, IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 5.03 OF THE
MIAMI-DADE COUNTY CHARTER; SUBMITTING PROPOSED CHARTER
AMENDMENT CONCERNING BUILDING HEIGHT; PROVIDING REQUISITE
BALLOT LANGUAGE FOR SUBMISSION TO THE ELECTORATE; CALLING AN
ELECTION ON THE PROPOSED AMENDMENT TO THE VILLAGE CHARTER
TO BE HELD ON TUESDAY, THE 7TH DAY OF NOVEMBER, 2006; PROVIDING
NOTICE OF ELECTION; PROVIDING FOR BALLOTING; PROVIDING FOR
INCLUSION IN THE CHARTER; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; AND
PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
Mr. Weiss explained that the County Supervisor of Elections has reviewed the petition
received and that it has been determined that the number of signatures received is
sufficient. He noted that the Village Attorneys have reviewed the language and feel that it's
legally sufficient, although there are some issues open to interpretation. Mr. Weiss
explained that the Council has an ad ministerial act and doesn't have any discretion
regarding this. He noted that the item needs to be placed on the ballot and suggested that
the election be held in November, to reduce the cost of a special stand-alone election. Mr.
Weiss clarified that the resolution sets a special election, approves the ballot language, and
is the Council's obligation to approve.
Mayor Roth opened a public hearing.
Cliff Schulman, Attorney representing the Bal Harbour Shops, suggested that the
purpose of the amendment is to stop future expansions and/or remodeling/modernization of
the Bal Harbour Shops. He noted that the height limitations will not affect anyone else (the
single family and multi -family neighborhood are protected by deed restrictions). He thinks
that there are some legal challenges to the petition. Mr. Schulman noted that the 189
signatures certified by the Clerk (10% of the electorate) are able to take the Council's
Bal Harbour Village Regular Council Meeting Minutes 07/18/2006 3
power away, to determine whether or not the first or second largest taxpayer of the Village
will be able to meet the future needs of the retail community. He preserved the legal
challenges they have to the Charter amendment. Mr. Schulman discussed the history of the
Bal Harbour Shops. He explained that the amendment caps the height of the Shops forever
at 33 feet and that a retail floor is normally 17-18 feet. He thinks that it stops the Shops
from being able to keep up with the competition. He noted that every expansion that the
Shops has done has been through public hearings, before the Council. Mr. Schulman
explained that the amendment takes the power away from the Council, to make future
decisions, on any changes to the Shops. He pointed out that if the amendment passes,
then the there won't be any future increases of the Shops. He clarified that nothing can be
done with the Council at a public hearing, if the amendment passes. Mr. Schulman
understands that the Council doesn't have an option today other than sending it to the
electorate to vote, but suggested an option to protect an asset of the Village and preserve
the value of the Shops.
Stanley Whitman, Owner— Bal Harbour Shops, discussed the history of the Village. He
discussed the deed restrictions for the West side, limiting the building height to three
stories, not including the Shops. Mr. Whitman clarified that Council approval is currently
needed, for the Shops to build anything. He discussed the numerous variances that he has
had to receive to build. He noted that the Shops has tried to be a good neighbor.
Mr. Schulman distributed a suggested draft zoning ordinance, preventing the Charter
amendment from prohibiting the Shops to come before the Council for consideration of
future expansions. He clarified that the suggested ordinance would allow the Council to
maintain the flexibility to hear and determine what the future of the Shops should be. He
explained that it indicates the heights for retail, what they need to be in the future, and what
flexibility is necessary for that. He advised that if the suggested ordinance is passed by the
Council, then the Shops would still have to come before the Council for approval of future
expansions. Mr. Schulman thinks that if the suggested ordinance is passed prior to
November 7th, then it would allow the Council to retain control over the future of the Shops
site. He explained that every successful mall in South Florida has had to change with the
times. He noted that unless the Council passes an ordinance such as this, that freedom
and discretion will be taken away from them. Mr. Schulman advised that under Code
section 21-51 they are filing a request for pubic hearing. He requested that if the Council
passes the resolution that it also consider directing the Village Attorney to review the
suggested ordinance, place it on the agenda for first reading in September, and on the
agenda for second reading in October, prior to the proposed November 7th referendum. He
noted that the suggested ordinance would allow the Council to maintain the flexibility to
hear and determine the future of the Shops.
Babak Raheb, resident-128 Balfour Drive, resents the implication that the Village has to
be thankful to Mr. Whitman and owes him something. He thinks that Mr. Whitman has
invested in the Shops and profited from it. He thinks they are saying that the Village
electorate are idiots and cannot make decisions. Mr. Raheb is against the Council being
given a proposed ordinance during the meeting. He noted that the Council has no choice,
but to pass the resolution.
Hans Altenhoff, General Manager— Sheraton Bal Harbour, discussed the importance of
the Bal Harbour Shops, to the success of the hotel. He thinks that the Shops need to stay
competitive in the marketplace.
Bal Harbour Village Regular Council Meeting Minutes 07/18/2006 4
433
Dina Cellini, resident — 211 Bal Cross Drive and Vice President of the Bal Harbour
Citizens Coalition, explained that the Coalition circulated the petition and reported that the
purpose was not to earmark the Shops for a restriction in its expansion, but to look at the
Village as a whole. She noted that the electorate and people who live in the Village year
round who are not registered voters have become disillusioned over the years with how
liberally the Council has allowed development to occur. She explained that they felt the
increase in the amount of stories and height permitted have gotten out of hand. Ms. Cellini
advised that without any cooperation from the Council, they felt compelled to circulate the
petition, because they want to keep the height reasonable in the Village.
Ms. Cellini reported that Mr. Whitman provided a copy of the deed restrictions (for the West
side of Collins Avenue). She noted that she spoke with Mr. Whitman's real estate lawyer,
Steve Katz, who assured her that the deed restrictions would not prevent anyone (in the
single family homes or on the west side of Collins Avenue), from building beyond what the
deed restriction permitted. Ms. Cellini doesn't think the onerous should be on anyone to file
a lawsuit, to fight that.
Ms. Cellini explained that the registered voters of Bal Harbour followed the provisions to
amend the Municipal Charter. She pointed out that they received about 20% of the
registered voters to easily sign the petition in May/June, when the majority of the residents
are away. She clarified that the petition has widespread support and is what the electorate
wants. Ms. Cellini repeated that the Village Attorney has told the Council that it's an ad
ministerial act and that they don't have any discretion. She thinks that the Council needs to
pass the resolution.
Ms. Cellini clarified that the effect of the petition would not prevent the Shops from
expanding, because they can expand horizontally. She noted that Mr. Whitman has
previously said that retail doesn't work beyond the second floor, so she thinks the only
reason for them to go higher is for the 18-story building that Mr. Whitman submitted to
Tallahassee. She reported that the registered voters don't want an 18-story building on the
site of the Bal Harbour Shops. She pointed out that, as Mr. Whitman has suggested, the
Council has given Mr. Whitman whatever he has wanted over the years. Ms. Cellini agreed
that rightfully or wrongfully, he has done a wonderful job with the Shops as they exist, but
doesn't think that his plans for the future coincide with what the residents want. She noted
that the residents are telling the Council what they want.
Ms. Cellini resents Mr. Schulman pretending to know what the registered voters want. She
noted that the residents live in the Village and want to enjoy the quality of life in the Village,
not Mr. Schulman.
Ms. Cellini noted that the Bal Harbour Shops have a right to challenge the petition and they
will be prepared to respond in court, which she thinks is where this should be taken.
Ms. Cellini thinks that for the Council to put an ordinance of this importance on the agenda
for first reading that Mr. Schulman has drafted is ludicrous and irresponsible, since the
majority of residents will not be back in September. She thinks it's another example of the
Village giving the Bal Harbour Shops whatever they want, which they are tired of. She
suggested that if the Council passed an ordinance such as that, then the registered voters
could also submit a petition to repeal that ordinance. She noted that it's easy for them to
muster up the support that they need, to keep development at bay.
Bal Harbour Village Regular Council Meeting Minutes 07/18/2006 5
456
Ms. Cellini respectfully requested the Council to pass the resolution and let it take its
course. She noted that if Mr. Whitman wants to challenge it in court, then there are
channels and procedures to do that. She suggested letting the courts decide if the petition
is legally sufficient and letting the voters decide if they want the Charter amendment.
Suzie Sayfie, Executive Director of the Miami Project to Cure Paralysis and
Buonocotti Fund Board Member, spoke in favor of the Bal Harbour Shops expansion and
the Whitman family. She discussed the Whitman family contributions to the community.
She also discussed the need for ballrooms, etc. at the Shops, for charitable events, and
more quality boutiques.
Shotzie Cassal, spoke in favor of the Shops. She discussed the Whitmans and their
relationship to Project Newborn. Ms. Cassal thinks that the Shops need more facilities to
help charities.
Gabriela Webster, resident — 30 Park Drive, thinks the amendment is ridiculous to put
before the voters and hopes that it will be voted against. She thinks that the community
has every right to restrict heights and to negotiate and continue forward. She hopes that the
Village doesn't forego its responsibility to ensure that things are reasonable and positive.
She discussed the commitment that Mr. Whitman has had to the community. Ms. Webster
thinks that things need to be changed sometimes, which is done through resident
involvement. She thinks that the Shops make the Village even more special.
Michael Patrizio, WCI, spoke on behalf of the 300+ future residents at the One Bal
Harbour/Regent and discussed the importance of the Shops. He spoke against the
amendment and thinks that it handcuffs the mall's ability to react to the marketplace. Mr.
Patrizio thinks that the control should be kept with the Council, to also allow input from the
residents.
Marjorie Schell, resident— 9801 Collins Avenue, likes the Village the way it is and is not
interested in the Shops. She likes the ocean and quiet Village life. Ms. Schell noted that the
people who signed the petition, including her, don't want the Shops to expand like the One
Bal Harbour. She clarified that doesn't mean that they can't keep up with the times. She
requested that the Council keep things the way that they have been.
Lisa Molina, Vice President at Neiman Marcus Bal Harbour, thinks that the Shops are
responsible for the retail and business land real estate increase. She thinks that Mr.
Whitman has made Bal Harbour what it is today. Ms. Molina discussed surveys taken at the
Shops and hotels showing that the number one reason that people come to Bal Harbour is
not for the ocean or hotel, but for the shopping. She noted that everyone has profited from
the Shops and that the community has also profited from the charities. Ms. Molina thinks
that the Shops need to be given the opportunity to grow and give customers what they're
asking for.
There being no additional comments, Mayor Roth closed the public hearing.
Councilman Sanz questioned the implication of the proposed ordinance if it was placed on
the September agenda for first reading. Mr. Weiss noted that he hasn't reviewed the
ordinance, in order to reply. Councilman Sanz clarified that the Council doesn't have a
choice in passing the resolution. Mr. Weiss agreed. Councilman Sanz clarified that the
Bal Harbour Village Regular Council Meeting Minutes 07/18/2006 6
437
Council could review the suggested ordinance in September as another choice. Mr. Weiss
advised that the Council can. Assistant Mayor Berlin clarified that the resolution is an ad
ministerial act and the Council doesn't have a choice and must do what the law directs
them to do. Mr. Weiss agreed.
Councilman Jacobi thinks that the Shops should file a separate amendment to the Charter,
regarding what they want (height, etc.) or start a public relations campaign to educate the
voters. He is not happy with the 11-foot height restriction. Councilman Jacobi thinks that the
Village is behind in terms of what the other malls are doing. He questioned giving control to
the voters to decide and is concerned that only seven residents signed the petition from the
West side. He is concerned with the small amount of voters who signed the petition.
Councilman Jacobi thinks that the Shops need to grow and keep up with the times. He
noted that the Council is bound by the law and must pass this resolution, but there are
steps that the Shops can take.
Mayor Roth clarified that the Council doesn't have any option. Councilman Rosenfield
pointed out that the electors have an option and can oppose it and can start a campaign.
She noted that if the community feels that this is wrong, then there should be
communication to the residents that this is the wrong thing to pass, which hasn't been done
yet. Councilman Rosenfield explained that every initiative doesn't have to be passed. She
clarified that just because some people want it, doesn't mean that all the people do. She
noted that is why there is an election procedure and it goes to ballot. She doesn't think the
Council has any other choice at this point, other than to pass this.
Councilman Sanz pointed out that only seven people signed the petition that will be
affected by it (the West side). Mayor Roth noted that the residents complied with the law
and filed the petition, which the Attorney has advised the Council needs to accept. He
advised that in November the voters will decide what they think is right. Mayor Roth thinks
that handcuffing someone is difficult, because times change and things have to be
modernized. He thinks that the hot button issue was the hotel. He noted that he wouldn't
want anything built on the West side of the street, because it would block him, but
discussed parking and questioned restricting that going up another floor, because he thinks
that would benefit the Village. He noted that there are some parts that he isn't in favor of,
but there are many parts of the referendum that he is very much in favor of. Mayor Roth
noted that his hands are tied and there's a motion on the floor.
A motion was offered by Councilman Rosenfield and seconded by Councilman Sanz to approve
this resolution. The motion carried unanimously (5-0), thus becoming Resolution 686.
Assistant Mayor Berlin questioned the process to place the suggested ordinance on the
September agenda for consideration. Mr. Weiss discussed the process and explained that
the Council would need to direct the Village Attorney to review the proposed ordinance and
then it would be placed on the September agenda. He thinks that it would need to go to the
Local Planning Agency first. Assistant Mayor Berlin thinks that it's unanimous amongst the
Council that there is dissatisfaction with the focus and intent of the referendum. He has no
objection to considering a proposed ordinance in September.
A motion was offered by Assistant Mayor Berlin and seconded by Councilman Sanz to direct the
Village Attorney to review the suggested Ordinance prepared by Cliff Schulman for legal
sufficiency, have the Village Planner provide a report on the implications of the Ordinance, and
Bal Harbour Village Regular Council Meeting Minutes 07/18/2006 7
for the Village Attorney to prepare an opinion of the effect of the Ordinance if the Petition is
passed. The motion carried unanimously (5-0).
Mr. Weiss clarified that it's his understanding that the Council has also directed him to place
the Ordinance on the September agenda. The Council agreed.
9. REPORTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS:
A. MAYOR AND COUNCIL:
Mayor Roth thanked Lydia Kordalewski for the outstanding Park & Recreation programs.
Report by Committee to Study Police Holding Cell Issue —
Councilman Jacobi, Chairman: Councilman Jacobi thanked the members of the
Committee and residents who participated in the process.
Chief Hunker reviewed a Powerpoint presentation. He explained that the communication
issues were part of the holding cell discussions. He reported that the Committee's objective
was to discuss the problems with the current police holding cell, identify possible remedies,
and present the findings to the Council. Chief Hunker discussed the problems with the
current holding cell. He noted that there were liability issues with using another police
department's holding cell facilities. He discussed possible remedies and explained that the
Committee is recommending moving the Building Department to a modular trailer in front of
the Recreation Center, moving the Communications to the current Building Department
space, and remodeling the current Communications area for a new police holding cell area.
Chief Hunker explained that the Committee is noting that the remedy is temporary and
suggested that the Council appoint another Committee, in the Fall, to review the Police and
Village Hall facilities, to come up with a master plan to build a facility for the police and
Village Hall.
Mr. Treppeda distributed the "Cost Estimate for Moving Building Department to Modular
Office Space at Recreation Center" and proposed site plan. Chief Hunker reiterated that
this is not a long-term solution.
Babak Raheb, resident— 128 Balfour Drive, clarified that when the new cells are added,
separate bathrooms will also be provided. He reported that the Building Department also
needed space and thinks that this solution solves the immediate problem.
Councilman Jacobi thinks that this is the most cost effective solution for a temporary fix. He
explained that some of the Building Department funds can be used for their portion. Mr.
Treppeda reviewed the plans. Building Official Daniel Nieda thinks that it's a step in the
right direction. Mr. Raheb thinks that this is the best solution.
A motion was offered by Councilman Jacobi and seconded by Councilman Rosenfield to approve
up to $218,350.00 to implement the recommendation of the Holding Cell Committee to move the
Building Department into modular office space at the Recreation Center, to free up space for the
Police Department to correct their holding cell/communications safety issue, and to authorize the
Village Manager to enter into a 2-year lease for modular office space for $1,100 per month. The
motion carried unanimously (5-0).
Ba1 Harbour village Regular Council Meeting Minutes 07/18/2006 8
4i1<E
B. VILLAGE ATTORNEY: No items.
C. VILLAGE CLERK:
Lobbyist Registration Report: As of July 14, 2006: Mrs. Horvath
reviewed the list of Lobbyists currently registered with the Village.
Re -Appointment of Resort Tax Committee Members: Assistant
Mayor Berlin thanked Mayor Roth, Councilman Rosenfield, and Councilman Sanz for
attending the July Resort Tax Committee meeting. He explained that the Council needs to
consider re -appointing the current members of the Committee, to serve for another year.
Babak Raheb, resident— 128 Balfour Drive, is against people from the Shops being on
the Committee, since they approve money to be spent on the Shops, which he thinks
creates an ethics problem. Mr. Raheb would like more residents on the Committee. Mr.
Weiss explained the Resort Tax Committee Ordinance. Mayor Roth thinks that there should
be some people representing the shopping district and the hotels. He doesn't see anything
wrong with some impartial residents being on the Committee, who are not affiliated with the
Shops. Mayor Roth thinks that issue should be studied and suggested that Assistant Mayor
Berlin think about it.
Councilman Sanz thinks that the Committee has done an excellent job and is in favor of re-
appointing the current members. He noted that residents are allowed to attend and
participate in the meetings.
Assistant Mayor Berlin noted that the Committee has operated in this fashion since its
inception. He reported that residents attend the meetings and participate. Mr. Raheb would
like citizens to be on the Committee, not just in attendance.
A motion was offered by Councilman Sanz and seconded by Councilman Jacobi to approve re-
appointing Assistant Mayor Howard J. Berlin, Hans Altenhoff, A. Anthony Noboa, Lisa Perri -
Molina, and Randy Whitman as members of the Resort Tax Committee (the term is for one year).
The motion carried unanimously (5-0).
Selection of September Budget Public Hearing Dates and
September Regular Council Meeting Time: Mrs. Horvath proposed scheduling the
First Budget Hearing for either September 11 or 12, at 5:01 p.m. She also proposed
scheduling the Second Budget Hearing for September 19, 2006, at 5:01 p.m. and changing
the time of the Regular Council Meeting on September 19, 2006 to 4:00 p.m.
A motion was offered by Councilman Jacobi and seconded by Councilman Rosenfield to approve
the First Budget Hearing for September 121h at 5:01 p.m., the Second Budget Hearing for
September 19`h at 5:01 p. m., and the Regular Council Meeting for September 19th at 4:00 p. m. The
motion carried unanimously (5-0).
Request for Approval of New Digital Recording System and
Software: Mrs. Horvath requested approval of $6,976.99 for a new digital recording
system and software, provided by BIS Digital. She explained the advantages of having a
digital recorder, in lieu of a tape recorder, which is currently used (ease of duplication,
Bal Harbour Village Regular Council Meeting Minutes 07/18/2006 9
440
backup for archival purposes, etc.).
A motion was offered by Councilman Rosenfield and seconded by Councilman Sanz to approve.
The motion carried unanimously (5-0).
D. VILLAGE MANAGER:
Resort Tax Committee Recommendations: Assistant Mayor Berlin
requested approval of the following item, recommended by the Resort Tax Committee at
the July 17, 2006 meeting:
1. GMCVB Northeast Sales Mission (Sept. 18-21, 2006) $2,610.00
A motion was offered by Assistant Mayor Berlin and seconded by Councilman Sanz to approve.
The motion carried unanimously (5-0).
Third Quarter Budget Review — Fiscal Year 2005/2006
Christopher Wallace, Village Finance Director: Mr. Wallace reviewed the Third
Quarter Budget Report, which is summarized as follows:
General Fund — Revenues are ahead of projections, except for the building permits
(Sheraton remodeling was anticipated). The budget isn't affected because expenditures
were set aside for that. The investment incomes exceeded expectations. The Village should
finish well into the black.
Tourism Fund - Ahead of expectations, with receipt of 93% of the budgeted revenue in
3/<% of the year. The fund will be much stronger than anticipated for the year.
Security Assessment - Revenue has largely been received. There hasn't been a lot of
new construction, but the expenditures haven't been as high as anticipated. There shouldn't
be a large change by the end of the year.
Water and Sewer Fund — Slight improvements since the last report, which should continue
through the remainder of the fiscal year.
Mr. Wallace summarized that the Village's budget progress has been very good, with
almost entirely positive variances, with very few exceptions. He thinks that the Village's
financial position will be improved again at the end of the year.
Discussion of 2006/2007 Proposed Budget and Millage Rate:
Mr. Treppeda explained that the new millage rate needs to be certified to the County by
August 4th. He reviewed the highlights of the proposed increases. Mr. Treppeda proposed
a millage rate of 2.902, with a fund balance contribution of $396,715.00. He noted that the
property assessment increase would be capped at 3%, creating a tax increase of $69.65.
Mr. Weiss explained that State law requires municipal budgets to be approved in
September and for the millage rate to be approved before the budget. Assistant Mayor
Berlin suggested that the budget review be done in May/June next year.
Ba1 Harbour Village Regular Council Meeting Minutes 07/18/2006 10
441
A motion was offered by Councilman Sanz and seconded by Councilman Jacobi to approve the
millage rate at 2.902. The motion carried unanimously (5-0).
Request for Approval to Paint Two Garbage Trucks: Mr.
Treppeda requested approval of up to $7,000, to paint two garbage trucks (#208 and
#211). The lowest bid will be used.
A motion was offered by Councilman Rosenfield and seconded by Assistant Mayor Berlin to
approve. The motion carried unanimously (5-0).
1 O. OTHER BUSINESS:
Mr. Treppeda requested direction on whether or not the Council would like to meet in
August. A motion was offered by Assistant Mayor Berlin and seconded by Councilman
Rosenfield to forego having a Council meeting in August. The motion carried unanimously (5-0).
Mr. Treppeda reported that prior Council approval was given to replace Royal Palm trees in
the Security District. He explained that two additional trees need to be replaced, for a total
of five trees. A motion was offered by Councilman Jacobi and seconded by Councilman Sanz to
approve replacing two additional trees. The motion carried unanimously (5-0).
Babak Raheb, resident — 128 Balfour Drive, thinks that the division of districts is
disproportionate and suggested looking at re -districting. He commended the Park &
Recreation program and suggested that it be expanded in the future.
Dina Cellini, resident— 211 Bal Cross Drive, requested the Council to direct the Village
Attorney to study the language of the petition, not for legal sufficiency, but to give a report
as to how that petition would affect future development in Bal Harbour, at the Shops and
elsewhere.
Ms. Cellini clarified that the petition calls for development to be restricted beyond what's
currently in the Code. She noted that the Bal Harbour Shops are currently permitted to be
45 feet, with the parking garage higher. She thinks that since the Council has directed the
Village Attorney to look at the ordinance proposed by Mr. Schulman and to see how that
ordinance would be affected by the petition, then it would be fair to direct the Village
Attorney to look at the petition and to report back on how it would affect future development
at the Shops and elsewhere. It was the consensus of the Council that would be fair.
Mr. Weiss will review that, but doesn't think that Ms. Cellini will agree with whatever he
writes. He explained that there will be an election and a public debate about what the
ordinance does. Mr. Weiss has told Ms. Cellini and her lawyer that he thinks that the
ordinance is subject to some interpretation.
Ms. Cellini noted that the Council injected an 11-foot ceiling height in the oceanfront zoning,
which is the same number that the Coalition used. Mayor Roth advised that is for
residential, not commercial. Councilman Rosenfield agreed.
Ms. Cellini reported that the petition doesn't only apply to the Bal Harbour Shops and was
not aimed at them. She explained that the petition is aimed at future height development in
Bal Harbour, across the board, including the West side of Collins Avenue.
Bal Harbour Village Regular Council Meeting Minutes 07/18/2006 11
442
Councilman Rosenfield pointed out that the Council currently has the discretion to change
the zoning height, but that once the proposed ordinance is passed, then it would be 11 feet
forever.
Ms. Cellini explained that it would be 11 feet, unless a developer submitted a project to the
registered voters. She thinks that Mr. Whitman will be doing a public relations campaign
and suggested that if the petition passes and he wants to do something at the Bal Harbour
Shops, then he can do another public relations campaign to convince the voters that what
he wants to do at the Shops is good for the voters and the Village. She clarified that this
isn't preventing Mr. Whitman from doing that and is not preventing a developer who wants
to demolish the buildings on the West side of Collins Avenue, to build high-rises. She noted
that if the Village electorate can be convinced that it would be good for them and the
Village, then so be it.
Ms. Cellini explained that they are doing what is permitted, under the Village Charter. She
thinks that it may be difficult for the Council to accept this, because it's somewhat a vote of
no confidence, at what the Council has permitted to happen in the Village in the last few
years. She is not surprised that the Council is speaking against the petition, but thinks that
they need to realize that the residents live and vote in the Village and have a right to say
what they want. Ms. Cellini doesn't think that it should just be left to the five
Councilmembers, who can sit down and be wined and dined by developers.
Councilman Rosenfield thinks that's an unfair statement. She questioned Ms. Cellini if she
could state that any of the Council has been wined and dined. Assistant Mayor Berlin would
like that answer on the record. Ms. Cellini replied that she wouldn't say all of the Council,
but that she has seen many of the Council members having lunch with Mr. Whitman.
Councilman Jacobi noted for the record that he turned down Mr. Whitman's invitation for
lunch.
Ms. Cellini noted that the Council has a right to have lunch with whomever they want. She
explained that her only point is that for the future of the Village to be left in the hands of
five, when the residents, the electorate would like to be heard, is what the Dade County
Home Rule Charter provides for. She appreciates that the Council passed the resolution,
because they were required to do so. She noted that the people will vote, there will be a
legal challenge, and the courts will rule on it.
Councilman Sanz resents Ms. Cellini's accusation of the Council being wined and dined.
He noted that he has never been wined and dined by anyone and Ms. Cellini knows better
than that. He explained that he has never sat down, since he has been on the Council, to
have dinner or lunch with Mr. Whitman, any of the developers, etc. He thinks that when Ms.
Cellini makes that statement, then she is pointing a finger that all of the Council are being
wined and dined, which he doesn't think is right.
Ms. Cellini doesn't think that she pointed any fingers, but apologized if Councilman Sanz
was offended. She explained that she was making a statement that it's a lot easier to sit
down and convince five people on a Council rather than an electorate of 1600. She noted
that now, if Mr. Whitman or any other developer wants to make a project in Bal Harbour,
then it would require the registered voters to approve it. She pointed out that Mr. Whitman
has the money to do the public relations campaign and whatever he needs to do.
Bal Harbour Village Regular Council Meeting Minutes 07/18/2006 12
443
Ms. Cellini thinks that the Council has extended themselves by accepting the ordinance
from Mr. Schulman, directing the Village Attorney to review it, and putting it on the agenda
for first reading in September, even though many of the residents will not be back. She
noted that the Council has also directed the Village Attorney to review that ordinance, in
light of the petition, and she is only asking for fair treatment.
Mr. Weiss clarified that the Village Attorneys' opinion will address the impact of the
ordinance, without getting into specific situations. He explained that there are issues within
the petition that are subject to interpretation. He noted that if the Council wants to be in the
middle of the debate regarding the petition, then that's fine, but he doesn't want his opinion
to be the center of the debate, as to what the petition says or not, because he doesn't think
that is for him to say. Mr. Weiss explained that the people who wrote the petition are going
to say what they think it says. He doesn't think that what he writes is going to be acceptable
to them.
Babak Raheb questioned if Mr. Weiss' opinion can either agree or disagree with Mr.
Schulman's statement that this only affects the Bal Harbour Shops. Mr. Weiss explained
that he will not go through everything that Mr. Schulman said, but will do an overall opinion
as to the affects on the Village.
Mayor Roth questioned the Deed Restrictions for the West side. Mr. Weiss noted that was
reported on at the last meeting. Mayor Roth questioned if that will stand up. Mr. Weiss
doesn't know, but reported that there is a deed restriction recorded on the plat.
Mr. Raheb thinks that the deed restriction could be challenged, if someone wanted to build.
Magda Saltzman, resident — 291 Bal Bay Drive, noted that there's one building on the
West side that's higher than three stories and questioned if that's grandfathered in. Mr.
Weiss will provide an opinion regarding what he thinks the petition does, but will not
address each building and will be generic.
Ms. Cellini explained that she has previously requested Mr. Weiss to report more
comprehensively about the deed restriction, which he has declined to do. She reported that
Mr. Weiss has noted that isn't his role. She pointed out that the deed restriction also says
that if someone is Jewish, then they can't own property in Bal Harbour.
Paul Young, resident — 291 Bal Bay Drive, discussed his concern about the closure of
the north beach access path. He questioned the Bal Harbour Club's offer to provide
temporary access. Mr. Treppeda explained that there were some liability and ADA issues
and that the Club hasn't taken any action on providing that access yet. He reported that the
north access is closed for beautification/construction and will re -open in early 2007. Mr.
Young questioned parking in the north lot, which construction workers are using. Mr.
Treppeda explained that the only parking available is at the Shops. Mr. Young complained
about construction workers parking on Bal Bay Drive and in the apartment building spaces.
Mr. Treppeda directed Mr. Young to Chief Hunker, regarding the parking problems.
Coleen Cleepak, resident — 291 Bal Bay Drive, complained about the children being
prohibited to ride bikes on the sidewalks, beach path, etc. She feels that children are being
discriminated against in Bal Harbour. Ms. Cleepak also complained about the construction
workers parking on Bal Bay Drive. Mayor Roth suggested that Ms. Cleepak meet with Chief
Bal Harbour Village Regular Council Meeting Minutes 07/18/2006 13
444
Hunker and Mr. Treppeda, to work on a solution. He discussed residents parking at the
Shops or the Village providing insurance for the Bal Harbour Club to provide access, with
WCI paying for it. Mr. Weiss suggested that the Council direct Mr. Treppeda and Chief
Hunker to resolve the problem and to spend money that is adequate to do so. Chief Hunker
discussed the construction process. Councilman Sanz suggested that something be
worked out with the Bal Harbour Shops for parking, for residents that want to use the 96th
Street beach access. Mr. Treppeda will call a Special Meeting for this issue, if necessary.
Magda Salzman, resident — 291 Bal Bay Drive, discussed having to drive under the
bridge to access her building. She thinks that the Developers are taking over that area. She
complained about the appearance of the area and suggested that screening be placed to
improve the appearance. Ms. Salzman thinks that WCI should cover the cost to provide an
access through the Club. She would like the workers to be provided with an area on the site
to have their lunch, instead of the streets. She noted that the streets need to be cleaned
from the Kenilworth building to underneath the bridge. Councilman Rosenfield agreed that
WCI needs to be responsible for providing an area for their workers to eat. She requested
that the Village meet with WCI to review the items that the Village will not permit (eating,
throwing garbage, congregating, etc. on the streets)
Ana Marie Kelly, resident — 284 Bal Bay Drive and owner — 77 Camden Drive, voiced
her opinion that allowing roach wagons in the residential section or Collins Avenue violates
the Village Code. She resents the Village giving construction workers priority over the
residents and discussed the lack of parking spaces underneath the bridge. She agreed that
workers shouldn't be allowed to eat on the streets. Ms. Kelly discussed birds with hooks
and dead fish on the jetty. Ms. Kelly questioned the need for fishing permits.
Mayor Roth advised that the Village will try to solve the beach access problem.
Lybia Toro, resident— 291 Bal Bay Drive, would like another access to the beach to be
provided, instead of only having the 96th Street access.
Marjorie Schell, resident— 9801 Collins Avenue, commended Mr. Treppeda for having
the beach cleared of debris in one day. She suggested the Village getting a truck to clean
the beach on an ongoing basis.
11. ADJOURN: There being no further business, a motion was offered by
Councilman Rosenfield and seconded by Councilman Sanz to adjourn. The motion carried
unanimously (3-0), with Assistant Mayor Berlin and Councilman Jacobi absent, and the meeting
adjourned at 11:46 a.m.
or Seymour Roth
Attest:
Ellisa Horvath, CMC
Village Clerk
Bal Harbour Village Regular Council Meeting Minutes 07/18/2006 14