HomeMy Public PortalAbout2011-02-15 Regular MeetingBAL HARBOUR VILLAGE COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
REGULAR MEETING - FEBRUARY 15, 2011
The Regular Meeting of the Bal Harbour Village Council was held on Tuesday, February 15,
2011, at the Bal Harbour Village Hall Council Chambers (655 - 96th Street, Bal Harbour,
Florida).
1. CALL TO ORDER/ROLL CALL: The meeting was called to order at 7:05
p.m. by Assistant Mayor Blachar. The following were present:
Assistant Mayor Joni D. Blachar
Councilwoman Patricia Cohen
Councilman Martin Packer
Councilman Jaime M. Sanz
Alfred J. Treppeda, Village Manager
Ellisa L. Horvath, MMC, Village Clerk
Richard J. Weiss, Village Attorney
Andrea Greenblatt, Administrative Assistant
Absent: Mayor Jean Rosenfield
As a quorum was determined to be present, the meeting commenced.
2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: The Pledge was led by Village Special
Master and resident Valerie Rennert.
3. AGENDA: REQUEST FOR DELETIONS/ADDITIONS: None.
4. SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS:
Thank You for Contribution — City of Miami Police Mayor McQueen:
This item was done later in the meeting.
5. CONSENT AGENDA:
Anamarie Kelly, 77 Camden Drive, requested that Tab D be removed.
Mr. Treppeda requested. approval for the following remaining items on the Consent
Agenda:
Tab A: Minutes: January 18, 2011 Regular Council Meeting
Tab B: $6,000.00 in Resort Tax Funds for the Travel and Leisure Travel Agency
Advisory Board Event (2/24/2011-2/25/2011)
Tab C:
$68,700.00 in Police Forfeiture Funds and Authorization for an Equal Trade
Federal - $5,000 Donation to the Young Men's Academy for Academic and Civic
Development at MacArthur -South, Equal Trade-in (12 old boat engines and 2 small
boats) for Acquisition of 3 Mercury Verado Outboard Boat Engines for Police Boat,
$45,000 for Purchase of Equipment for Vice, Intelligence and Narcotics Squad, and
$7,200 for 3-Year Lease ($200 per month) of e-Studio 3530c Copier for Vice,
Intelligence and Narcotics Squad
State - $4,500 for Donation to Police Officers Assistance Trust for Three Tables at
the LEO Awards Gala and $7,000 for Annual Hosting of Miami -Dade County
Association of Chiefs of Police Dinner at Sea View Hotel
Tab E: $230,525.00 to Award the Bid to Kailas Corporation (the low bidder) for the
Conversion of Sewer Pump Station #1 to Submersible Pumps
Tab F: Approval of Continued Membership with the Child Abduction Response
Team (CART) and Authorization to Enter Into a Mutual Aid Agreement
between CART and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (to provide
personnel to investigations of child abductions, when necessary)
Tab G: Designation of the Unusable Office Furniture from the Building and Police
Departments as Surplus and Authorization for the Destruction or Donation of
the Surplus Furniture to a Non -Profit Organization
A motion was offered by Councilman Sanz and seconded by Councilman Packer to approve the
items on the Consent Agenda ( Tab Items A,B, C, E, F, and G), with the exception of Tab D. The
motion carried (4-0).
Tab D — Motion Approving Expenditure of Police Budgeted Funds: The
request was for the following item: $3,475.50 Broward County Police Academy Fee (to
sponsor one of the Village Police Dispatchers in the Part -Time Broward County Police
Academy, in anticipation of two openings in 2012, due to retirement).
Anamarie Kelly, 77 Camden Drive, requested that the item be tabled. She noted that the
Council was requested to review the Police budget, since it was the Village Attorney's
opinion that budgeted police could not police in a private area (the Security District). Ms.
Kelly read an Attorney General Opinion.
A motion was offered by Councilman Packer and seconded by Councilwoman Cohen to approve
Tab D. The motion carried (4-0).
6. PUBLIC HEARINGS:
Zoning Hearings/Quasi-Judicial Public Hearings: None.
Ordinances Second Reading/Public Hearings: None.
Ordinances First Reading/Public Hearings: None.
Resolutions/Public Hearings: None.
7. ORDINANCES FIRST READING/PUBLIC INPUT: None.
8. RESOLUTIONS: None.
Ba1 Harbour Village Regular Council Meeting Minutes 02/15/2011 2
REPORTS:
A. VILLAGE MANAGER:
Request for Sign Permit — Joseph Imbesi, Bal Harbour Club:
Joe lmbesi, 175 Camden Drive, requested authorization to place "no trespassing" signs at
the marina, in response to people not picking up after their dogs on his marina property
and concern with people on the seawall fighting, etc. Mr. lmbesi explained that his Attorney
advised that the signs should be posted, otherwise Mr. lmbesi would be liable if someone
was hurt on his property.
Assistant Mayor Blachar reviewed the Code requirement that the signs needed to be 66
square inches. She noted that if Mr. lmbesi would like larger signs, then he would need to
request a variance. Mr. lmbesi requested that the signs be posted immediately and then
he would apply for the variance for the larger signs. Assistant Mayor Blachar thought that
nine signs was excessive. Mr. Imbesi explained that there would be a sign located at each
entrance or exit, in the grass at the south side of the marina (where there was no ingress
and no egress), and one on the peninsula. Councilman Packer suggested a small
decorative fence. Mr. lmbesi didn't like the idea of a fence and didn't think the residents
would either. Assistant Mayor Blachar suggested four signs. Mr. lmbesi agreed.
A motion was offered by Assistant Mayor Blachar and seconded by Councilwoman Cohen to
approve four sins at 66 inches each.
Daniel Holder, 24 Bal Bay Drive, spoke against eliminating public access to the seawall
and suggested that a portion be dedicated to the Village, to be left open, without Mr. lmbesi
having the liability.
Mr. Imbesi explained that he would not consider dedicating anything on the bay property to
the Village. He was amicable to a solution that eliminated his liability and didn't involve dog
droppings on his property. Assistant Mayor Blachar suggested waiting to see if the problem
continued now that the public was aware of it. Mr. lmbesi suggested that people walk
without their dogs, but explained that he needed to be absolved of any liability. Assistant
Mayor Blachar suggested that Mr. Weiss and Mr. Treppeda have further discussion with
Mr. Imbesi on what further action could be taken.
Dina Cellini, 211 Bal Cross Drive, urged the Council not to vote on the motion until it was
discussed further with Mr. Imbesi and the Village had a clear understanding of what it was
approving. She noted that part of Mr. Imbesi's request was to have a trespass with
warning, which would mean an arrest after a warning was given, which seemed to be an
excessive solution to the problem of owners not picking up after their dogs. She also noted
that the Village was using 50% of the Yacht Basin property as part of its green space
inventory. Ms. Cellini urged the Council to re -think the ramifications and noted that the Club
had been there for over 60 years and had always been able to work with the residents. She
urged that the motion not be voted on, until the Council figured out what it wanted.
Gabriel Grossman, 145 Bal Bay Drive, reported that the only safe place to walk with
children was on the Club property, since there was no sidewalk. He noted that people
would need to walk in the street if "no trespass" signs were posted. He encouraged further
discussion before action was taken.
Bal Harbour Village Regular Council Meeting Minutes 02/15/2011 3
Mr. lmbesi explained that everyone who walked around in the Village used the streets to
walk. He clarified that the Yacht basin was his and he needed to protect himself and the
people that he was doing business with.
Steve Scheinman, 234 Bal Cross Drive, suggested that Mr. lmbesi be absolved of any
liability and an agreement be reached.
Guy Kurlandski, 70 Camden Drive, spoke against the postponement of the liability issue,
since an accident could occur in the meantime.
Assistant Mayor Blachar closed the public discussion.
Councilman Packer was not opposed to signs being placed, but suggested that something
be worked out with Mr. lmbesi in the future. He urged residents to use the new dog park at
Hau lover.
Mr. Weiss voiced concern about the Village getting involved in private property. He clarified
that the Club was private property owned by Mr. lmbesi and surrounded by other private
property. He suggested that the Civic Association speak with Mr. lmbesi. He clarified that
no solution would be appropriate for the Village to take liability for private property. He
noted that the neighbors needed to work things out and spoke against the Village getting
involved.
Assistant Mayor Blachar spoke in favor of allowing four signs at 66 square inches, with a
variance required for larger signs.
Mr. lmbesi explained that he would rather be neighborly.
The motion carried (4-0).
Thank You for Contribution — City of Miami Police Major McQueen:
Major McQueen provided a Powerpoint presentation showing what the Village's
contribution money was used for. Assistant Mayor Blachar explained that the Village's
donation was from the Police Forfeiture funds and taxpayer dollars were not used.
Report Regarding Residential District Research: Mr. Treppeda
reviewed his report and recommendations.
Assistant Mayor Blachar opened the meeting to public discussion.
Babak Raheb, 128 Balfour Drive, suggested that another assessment be done, instead of
adding to the existing one, which was only for security. He spoke in favor of only allowing
west side unit owners and not their renters, unless they would be responsible for liability.
He discussed concern about robberies, etc. and the need to verify those who were owners.
Guy Kurlandski, 70 Camden Drive, questioned the meaning of use of streets. Mr. Weiss
explained that the property owners on the west side had the same rights to use the streets
as the people inside the gates, not just for access to the parks.
Assistant Mayor Blachar explained that west side residents needed to show identification
Bal Harbour Village Regular Council Meeting Minutes 02/15/2011 4
that they lived on the west side, in order to gain entry into the gate. She noted that Mr.
Treppeda recommended that the west side residents not be provided an eGO pass, since
they would not be contributing to the security assessment.
Anamarie Kelly, 77 Camden Drive, reviewed Resolution No. 464 and noted that the vote
for the Security District (206 votes) was not done correctly (there are 310 lots and 75% of
that would be 233). She added that certain apartment complexes on Bal Bay and Bal
Cross Drive were not allowed to vote (Fairfield Manor, etc.). She reported that according to
the 2010 Assessment Schedule 284 lots were taxed and 75% of that would be 213. She
requested verification of the voting certificates that were signed, because she didn't sign
one. She would also like a deed from the Civic Association showing what they owned. She
discussed the usurping of everyone's rights.
Dina Cellini, 211 Bal Cross Drive, questioned the recommendation for the residents in
the gated community to maintain the security wall (she understood the parks, but not the
walls). She noted that the District had nothing to do with the walls, since the walls existed
before a majority of the homes were built, were different designs, and weren't built at the
same time to create a boundary. She requested that the Village do more research. Ms.
Cellini reviewed Ordinance No. 11 (1947) showing guidelines that the Village created for
structures and walls. She voiced belief that further research would show that as the
individual lots (west side) were developed each lot developed a wall behind their lot. She
thought that it was unfair for the gated community to be responsible, if the Village didn't
know who owned the walls. She discussed aerial photos showing west side lots
undeveloped, with no wall behind them, which was an argument that the Developers of
those lots built the walls. Ms. Cellini suggested that the walls were the responsibility of the
west side buildings and their residents.
Stuart Sobel, 271 Bal Cross Drive and President of the Civic Association, agreed that
there was room for debate regarding the history, but noted that Mr. Weiss and his staff had
tried to resolve it. He discussed Mr. Weiss' report also allowing for some debate, since the
Miami -Dade County Tax Assessor showed that the owner of the property being discussed
was the Bal Harbour Civic Association. He didn't want to ask the Village Attorney to do
more work and spoke in favor of the issue being resolved. He thought that Mr. Treppeda's
recommendations were fair. Mr. Sobel reported that a Civic Association meeting was held
and those in attendance made it clear that it didn't matter who put the walls up, because
they wanted the walls to be maintained as an important factor to their property values. He
noted that they agreed to take on the management of the green space and walls. He noted
that the Village was still responsible for the sewers, lights, and possibly the pump stations.
He clarified that access was not the same as ownership. He explained that the residents in
the Security District had ownership of the streets and would allow access to the west side
residents, per Mr. Treppeda's recommendations. He deferred to Mr. Weiss for the best
legislative mechanism to accomplish Mr. Treppeda's recommendations. Mr. Sobel noted
that whether they increased the Security District to call it a security, maintenance, and
welfare district or enacted a new ordinance, the consensus at the Civic Association
meeting was that they were willing, in the next budget cycle, to take over maintenance of
the green space and repair/replace the walls as could be afforded.
Steve Scheinman, 234 Bal Cross Drive, pleaded that any second assessment be
proportioned fairly, etc. Assistant Mayor Blachar reported the estimate to be around $1,000
for the additional assessment.
Mr. Sobel understood the concerns, but discussed the need for the District to meet its
Bal Harbour Village Regular Council Meeting Minutes 02/15/2011 5
responsibility. He announced that the next Civic Association meeting would be March 2,
2011 at 7:00 p.m. He noted that the assessment would be discussed, but suggested that
any increase be done in incremental amounts to solve the problems.
Carlos Conseca, 80 Park Drive, voiced concern about security and controlling transient
people in the District. He questioned if the Quarzo hotel was included in the west side
people who would be allowed in the District. He discussed increased traffic, etc. with
people cutting through the District and also voiced concern about cars parking in the areas.
Assistant Mayor Blachar explained that without an eGO pass, the west side residents
would have to come in and leave through the front gate. Shedidn't know what the traffic
increase would be, but didn't think that it would be that much. Mr. Conseca suggested that
be looked into.
Yankee Andruiser, 150 Camden Drive, questioned what the debate was, since the
system had worked for so many years. Mr. Weiss explained that questions were raised
about the issue at a Council meeting and the Council felt that it needed to be looked at and
he was directed to provide a report on the issue. Assistant Mayor Blachar summarized that
Mr. Weiss' report concluded that the residents on the west side had the ability to enter the
gate. She explained that Mr. Treppeda followed the opinion of the Village Attorney, in
preparing his report.
Mike lzak, 90 Harbour Way and 187 Bal Cross Drive, questioned if the west side
residents were restricted to only use the green space areas, or if they were also permitted
to wander throughout the private roads. He noted that use of the condominium buildings'
private property was not allowed to access the beach and questioned what the difference
was. Mr. Weiss explained that the issue of ownership of the roads was different than the
right to use the roads. He clarified that the ownership was for abutting property owners, but
noted that within the plat that formed the community there were easements and the Village .,
and people on the west side had an easement over the ownership that allowed them to
use those roads. Mr. lzak questioned how that differed from the buildings on the east side
not allowing access to the beach area. Mr. Weiss explained that when the Developer
created the subdivision, prior to the gates, they gave the people on the west side of Collins
Avenue rights to the interior portion. He explained that there could be easements on the
east side along the ocean, but he hadn't looked at that. Mr. Izak questioned if the
easement was for the owners or also tenants on the west side. Mr. Weiss explained that if
the Council authorized moving ahead with Mr. Treppeda's recommendation, then he would
look into that issue. Mr. lzak suggested those factors be looked at before access was
given.
Abe Sher, 174 Park Drive, questioned if the easement rights were specifically for the west
side owners or if they (west side owners) were part of the same subdivision and had the
same rights. Mr. Weiss explained that it was in the same plat dedication and they (west
side owners) had the same rights as the homeowners within the District. Mr. Sher
suggested if that was the conclusion, then every dwelling unit within the property should
pay an equal share towards the costs.
Gabriel Grossman, 145 Bal Bay Drive, requested that extra time and care be taken for
the issue. He noted that if the owners on the west side had access, then they should share
in the assessment with regards to the wall. He suggested that there should be a separate
assessment for security (to be paid by the District homeowners) and the other assessment
for the wall should be shared. He discussed access for the west side owners and
discussed concerns regarding traffic, guests of owners, etc. Mr. Weiss clarified that the
Bal Harbour Village Regular Council Meeting Minutes 02/15/2011 6
easement was for the roads and the green space, not limiting the use of the roads to get to
the green space.
Richard Alman, 44 Bal Bay Drive, clarified that the taxpayer dollars that were being used
for maintenance of the park areas could no longer be used for that. He thought that a credit
should then be given to offset the expenses that would no longer be paid through the
taxation and a pro-rata share be given back to the homeowners to then be re -allocated to
how it would be done in the future. Mr. Weiss explained that the amount was being paid
through ad valorem taxes and the budget for the following year should show a decrease in
the ad valorem tax amount for that, with an increase in the security assessment fee. He
explained that would be spread out among all the taxpayers of the Village, not just the
Security District taxpayers. He clarified that there would be a re -allocation, but that it
wouldn't be dollar for dollar, since the other taxpayers would also get a reduction in their ad
valorem taxes. Mr. Alman spoke in favor of the owners on the west side paying for their
pro-rata share.
Assistant Mayor Blachar thought that Mr. Treppeda's recommendation was fair. She
clarified that the people on the west side were entitled to come in. She noted that if they
were charged for access, then they would want eGO passes, gate keys, etc.
Beth Berkowitz, block 8 of the residential section of Bal Harbour - 10160 Collins
Avenue, reported that she lived on the west side. She noted that not only her civil rights
had been violated, but that the civil rights of the other west side owners had also been
violated, since the gates went up. She clarified that, according to the dedicated plat, the
west side was part of the Residential Section the same as the people who lived in the
homes behind the gates. She noted that the east and west side owners paid taxpayer
dollars for years, without being able to use the streets or parks that were dedicated for
them. She clarified that if the west side residents were going to be charged, then everyone
who was kept out of the Security District should receive payment.
Dan Holder, 24 Bal Bay Drive, requested that the Council be flexible for changes to be
made down the road. He spoke in favor of only owners, not the residents, from the west
side having access. He discussed providing identification for children to allow them to
come in. Mr. Holder spoke in favor of addressing any parking problems.
Jack Gelinas, 10210 Collins Avenue - Lanai, reported that the wall was falling down
behind the Lanai and Mr. Sobel had agreed that they would be responsible for fixing the
wall. He questioned when the wall would be fixed or tom down, etc. He requested
clarification that the Civic Association was responsible and owned the wall.
Mr. Treppeda explained that the ownership of the wall was unknown, but that the Civic
Association had said they would take responsibility for the wall, which would be included in
their assessment. He clarified that the Council had not agreed to anything yet.
Mr. Gelinas noted that if the wall had been abandoned, then he had the ability to tear it
down in 15 days. He noted that the wall had been in disrepair for 18 months. Assistant
Mayor Blachar reviewed the comments made by Mr. Treppeda and Mr. Sobel. Mr. Gelinas
would like to know when the wall would be fixed.
Councilman Packer thanked the Civic Association for taking the reins, because their group
needed to determine their own way of living. He clarified that the Civic Association had said
that they would take responsibility for the wall and would fix it whether or not they owned it.
Bal Harbour Village Regular Council Meeting Minutes 02/15/2011 7
Mr. Sobel suggested that it be paid within the next budget cycle, along with the
assessments. Mr. Treppeda explained the assessment method. He noted that if his
recommendation was approved, then an ordinance would be passed to address the issue.
Assistant Mayor Blachar questioned if there was money in the District budget. Mr.
Treppeda explained that there was, but only to fix the Lanai portion of the wall.
Councilwoman Cohen noted that the wall deterioration was not just behind the Lanai.
Councilman Packer spoke in favor of the Lanai wall being taken care of first. Assistant
Mayor Blachar questioned if Security District funds could be approved for the Lanai portion
of the wall. Mr. Weiss explained that could be done, if the Council would like to move
forward with Mr. Treppeda's recommendation.
Nina Rudolph, 212 Bal Bay Drive, understood Mr. Gelinas' frustration, but thought that it
was honorable for the Civic Association to say that they would take care of it. She
requested that Mr. Gelinas be patient and noted that fifteen days was not enough time.
Maya Ezratti, 115 Camden Drive, questioned the location of the Lanai, the cost to install a
new fence, and the amount in the Security Fund. Assistant Mayor Blachar explained the
location of the Lanai. Mr. Treppeda reported that the cost was $15,000 for the fence
behind the Lanai and that there was enough money in the Security Fund to cover that.
Councilwoman Cohen explained that in order to placate the demands of the Lanai, the wall
would be demolished and a fence would be installed in its place.
Doug Rudolph, 212 Bal Bay Drive, noted that if the gates were impaired then the values
of the properties would plummet. He thanked Mr. Treppeda and Mr. Weiss for their
proposal. He clarified that there needed to be an understanding that people paid for what
they wanted. He spoke in favor of the Council looking at the basics and determining what
steps needed to be taken given the issues that had been raised and ironing them out. He
agreed that the situation needed to be resolved and the gates needed to be pristine and in
good shape.
Anthony Gillam, 9800 Collins Avenue (Fairfield Manor - West Side of Collins
Avenue), discussed the majority of the west side residents wanting to be on the beach and
at the Shops, not behind the gates. He clarified that the people on the west side were
ignorant to the rights that they had. He noted that if the west side residents had to pay for
the privilege of entry, then it should be looked at carefully. Mr. Gillam didn't think that right
of access should result in them having to pay alot extra.
Don Orner, 10245 Collins Avenue, questioned if the Village was going to advance the
money for the wall repair. Assistant Mayor Blachar clarified that Village money would not
be used and that money in the Security Fund would pay for the Lanai wall. She explained
that the Security Fund was comprised of assessment money from the residents inside the
gates (approximately $1,000 per year) and was not taxpayer money.
Brian Mulheren, 10245 Collins Avenue, suggested that a Florida Attorney General
provide an opinion of whether the Security District was legal or not, since he didn't think
that it was set up legally. He also requested an opinion on using Village Police in the
Security District and the policing powers that they would have. He noted that public funds
had been expanded on private property and gave the opinion that once that happened it
became public property. Mr. Mulheren explained that people's civil rights were violated on
the west side and the east side residents were violated who paid taxpayers dollars. He
Bal Harbour Village Regular Council Meeting Minutes 02/15/2011 8
noted that the Civic Association didn't have any standing, according. to Mr. Weiss.
Mr. Mulheren requested that it be stopped immediately and not wait until the next budget
cycle. He commended Councilwoman Cohen for bringing it up. He questioned who would
refund the money, if taxpayer dollars were used.
Mr. Treppeda clarified that the Bal Harbour Shops owned their portion of the wall, so that
portion would not be maintained.
Assistant Mayor Blachar closed the public discussion.
Councilwoman Cohen clarified that she brought the issue up, because she was concerned
about the maintenance inside the gated community. She noted that the Council, not her
alone, directed the Village Attorney to look into the Security District issue.
A motion was offered by Councilman Sanz and seconded by Councilwoman Cohen to accept the
Village Manager Report and to instruct Mr. Treppeda, Mr. Weiss, and staff to implement Mr.
Treppeda's recommendations.
Mr. Treppeda reviewed his recommendations.
Councilman Packer reviewed discussion from the public, including limiting access to west
side owners and assessments for them. Mr. Weiss clarified that Mr. Treppeda had
recommended that there not be an assessment for the west side owners, but that access
be given. He would bring back more details for implementation that would address some of
the issues raised regarding access for west side children, guests, etc. He questioned if the
Council would like to move in that direction and authorize the creation of an ordinance, etc.
Councilman Packer questioned Police patrolling. Mr. Weiss will address that issue later in
the meeting.
Councilwoman Cohen requested clarification that the Civic Association and the residents
were in general agreement with the direction that Mr. Treppeda recommended.
Mr. Sobel explained that there was some general discussion, but that they wanted to start
working with the details once a motion was passed.
The motion carried (4-0).
Assistant Mayor Blachar recused herself and left the meeting. Councilman Packer presided
over the meeting.
Mr. Weiss noted that if the Council wanted Mr. Treppeda to move ahead with remedying
the Lanai wall, then a motion should be made to authorize Mr. Treppeda to expend
Security District funds for that purpose.
A motion was offered by Councilman Packer and seconded by Councilman Sanz to direct the
Village Manager to use the funds available in the Security Assessment Fund to repair the Lanai
section of the wall, to remedy that situation.
Councilman Packer opened the public discussion.
Bal Harbour Village Regular Council Meeting Minutes 02/15/2011 9
Babak Raheb, 128 Balfour Drive, reported that on the previous motion Assistant Mayor
Blacharfailed to disclose that she was a former member of the Civic Association, she lives
in the Security District, and she is a partner of the Lanai. He thinks that Assistant Mayor
Blachar should have recused herself from the entire conversation. Mr. Raheb noted that
the Civic Association didn't represent all the people in the District and the Village doesn't
recognize them. He spoke against the Village taking a position, since Mr. Treppeda said
that the Village didn't know who owned the wall. He requested that the prior vote be thrown
out.
Stuart Sobel, 271 Bal Cross Drive, clarified that he reported that the Civic Association
was willing to take responsibility for the wall in conversations with Mr. Treppeda and
clarified that didn't mean that a contract would be signed tomorrow to demolish the wall. He
explained that they needed to look at the quote for the Lanai wall and would address it. He
clarified that the greater issue of the wall would take the next budget to fund.
Councilwoman Cohen clarified that the Council was considering a vote to expend as soon
as possible funds in the security assessment fund, to rectify the portion of the wall behind
the Lanai and replace it with another type of fence.
Mr. Sobel explained that the Civic Association would like Mr. Treppeda to be given
authorization to enter into a contract, with their input, to replace the portion of the wall that
they could afford to fix during the current budget cycle and then address the rest of it in the
next budget cycle.
Maya Ezratti, 115 Camden Drive, questioned the amount in the Security District budget.
Mr. Treppeda reported the fund balance to be approximately $80,000. Ms. Ezratti
questioned how many people had seen the wall. Mr. Sobel clarified that the wall needed to
be fixed.
Mike lzak, 90 Harbour Way, suggested that the Lanai be allowed to tear down the wall,
which would be most of the cost, and then the Association could temporarily put up a chain
link fence.
Guy Kurlandski, 70 Camden Drive, spoke in favor of the residents having the time and
opportunity to lookat the wall. He wasn't aware of the Civic Association. He suggested that
the Security residents discuss what they wanted to do among themselves. He discussed
the need to formulize that before any money was spent.
Mr. Weiss explained the history of the Village.
Anamarie Kelly reported that the Civic Association didn't have a deed or claim to the
property and didn't have any authority to enter into any agreements. She clarified that the
Civic Association didn't have the authority to speak on behalf of any of the residents in Bal
Harbour.
Councilwoman Cohen left the meeting. There was a momentary recess, due to the lack of
a quorum. Councilwoman Cohen returned to the meeting. The meeting proceeded.
Carlos Conseca spoke against trashing the property values and security. He suggested
that the residents set an example to make everyone's lives better.
Dan Holder, 24 Bal Bay Drive, questioned if the Civic Association would pay for the
Bal Harbour Village Regular Council Meeting Minutes 02/15/2011 10
repair. Mr. Weiss clarified that the Civic Association was not paying, but noted that they
were in favor of using Security area money to take care of the wall. He reported that if the
Civic Association had the ability to raise money then they would. He clarified that the
Association was endorsing the idea to use security area funds. Mr. Holder questioned who
had liability for injuries on the wall, streets, etc. of the Security District. Mr. Weiss explained
that the Village had general liability insurance, but didn't have any responsibility of the
streets.
Steve Scheinman, 234 Bal Cross Drive, suggested that since he owned up to the center
of the road, then maybe he should wall off his section of the road. Mr. Weiss explained that
his ownership of the road was subject to an easement that the Village and residents had
and doing so would interfere with easement rights.
Doug Rudolph, 212 Bal Bay Drive, noted that the basic premise of the wall was to protect
those inside the gate and to make the security system sound. He spoke against
peacemealing the wall just for the Lanai section. He noted that the issue had been looked
at and now the details needed to be addressed.
Councilwoman Cohen agreed with Mr. Rudolph and spoke in favor of a comprehensive
plan to improve the area. She noted that the entire wall was in disrepair and that it all
needed to be rectified. She thought that only repairing the Lanai section would be a Band-
Aid approach.
Councilman Packer felt that it was up to the residents. He noted that they didn't have a
homeowners association to enforce things, but there was a Civic Association and they
should be friendly enough to everyone that they should agree. He noted that if the wall was
breached, then their security would be breached. He suggested installing the chain link
fence temporarily and then addressing it going forward.
The motion carried (2-1), with the roll call vote as follows: Councilman Packer ves,
Councilwoman Cohen no, Councilman Sanz ves, Mayor Rosenfield absent, and Assistant Mayor
Blachar absent.
Assistant Mayor Blachar returned to the meeting.
Update on Red Light Cameras — Chief Hunker: Chief Hunker and
Captain Michael Daddario displayed and reviewed a PowerPoint presentation.
Moises Gilinski, 287 Bal Cross Drive, spoke against the cameras, but understood that
they were important. He noted that the signs alerting drivers to the cameras were hidden.
He also noted that a right turn into the gated area was allowed before, but was not allowed
after the cameras were installed. Assistant Mayor Blachar explained that the Florida
Department of Transportation (FDOT) decided to place a sign there, which had nothing to
do with the cameras. Chief Hunker agreed and noted that the red light camera legislation
needed some tweaking. He reported that $3 of each ticket went to the Project to Cure
Paralysis.
Steve Scheinman, 234 Bal Cross Drive, saluted the police. He discussed his need to get
to the hospital sometimes and the light not always functioning properly by staying red
longer. Chief Hunker noted that Dr. Scheinman could argue that. Dr. Scheinman
complained about not being able to turn right on red at Harbour Way (into the gated area).
Chief Hunker explained DOT's determination.
Bal Harbour Village Regular Council Meeting Minutes 02/15/2011 11
B. VILLAGE CLERK:
Lobbyist Registration Report: As of February 15, 2011: A list of
Lobbyists registered with the Village was provided in the agenda.
C. VILLAGE ATTORNEY:
. Update Regarding Police Enforcement in Security District: Mr.
Weiss discussed the Florida Statute that allowed the Police, if invited, to enforce traffic
laws in private areas. He clarified that if the Village had authorization and an agreement in
place by those who owned or controlled the private roads, then the Police could do so. He
noted that the ownership area was muddy. He explained that there was a current
agreement in place between the Village and the Civic Association, inviting the Village
Police in for enforcement, meeting the Statute requirement. He clarified that the Civic
Association was deemed to have ownership, prior to the Attorney report, because the tax
records showed the Civic Association as the owner. Mr. Weiss advised that the safe thing
to do was to send out a letter to the residents of the Security area asking if they wanted the
traffic laws to be enforced in the District and to give consent as owners of the streets. He
thought there were arguments that could be made that what the Village had in place was
fine, but he would like to have the letters as a backup plan to having the agreement in
place. He also suggested that the Civic Association send a letter out encouraging people to
sign the letter and send it back to the Village. Mr. Weiss was comfortable with the Village
continuing to enforce the traffic laws in the Security District.
Councilwoman Cohen questioned if the Police were also conducting security and doing
regular patrol, etc. in the District. Mr. Weiss clarified that the Police did some normal
patrolling in the Security District, but that this would be for the enforcement of traffic laws.
Councilwoman Cohen questioned if any special provisions needed to be made for the
Police to arrest in there, etc. Mr. Weiss advised that none were needed for that.
Babak Raheb, 128 Balfour Drive, clarified that the Civic Association didn't own the
streets, the homeowners did. He questioned if the Village could be liable by giving an
agreement for policing.
Guy Kurlandski, 70 Camden Drive, suggested that only west side residents on foot or
bicycles be allowed, not vehicles, in order to limit liability. Mr. Weiss explained that there
was no differentiation between access to the owners inside and outside the gates. Mr.
Kurlandski suggested reviewing parking regulations, wear and tear on the streets, time
allotted for parking, etc. Mr. Weiss explained that was up to the people within the District to
address. He explained that the Village wasn't getting involved, since it was private property.
Mr. Kurlandski spoke in favor of a compromise, but was concerned about access for the
vehicles for west side owners and the need for rules to be put in place. Mr. Weiss
explained that the Council had decided what they wanted to do, and ,that the private
property owners could do what they wanted.
Dina Cellini, 211 Bal Cross Drive, questioned if the Village would also send the letters to
the west side owners. Mr. Weiss explained that it would only be sent to owners in the
Security District. Ms. Cellini questioned if the Police could continue to patrol the gated
community. She thought that there was or should be a Police unit dedicated to the Security
District every shift and hoped that would continue. Mr. Weiss explained that he hadn't dealt
Bal Harbour Village Regular Council Meeting Minutes 02/15/2011 12
with the patrol issue at all and was only dealing with the traffic enforcement issue. Mr.
Treppeda clarified that a Police unit would continue to be in the Security District area.
Anamarie Kelly, 77 Camden Drive, reviewed an Attorney General opinion that public
funds could not be used for private property, unless there was an agreement of all the
owners. She discussed the Police budget and questioned how the Village would be
reimbursing the taxpayers.
Abe Sher, 174 Park Drive, discussed the public safety issue that needed to be
considered. He discussed the importance of the police patrol and traffic. He didn't want a
child to be hit at night or people outside saying the Police couldn't come in and enforce the
traffic.
Update Regarding Issue of Excavation Markers: Mr. Weiss
explained that Florida Statute pre-empted the issue of excavation markers, so the Village
didn't have the ability to regulate that. Assistant Mayor Blachar suggested that a company
be hired to remove the markings. Mr. Treppeda agreed and advised that was being looked
into. Councilwoman Cohen noted Coral Gables had an ordinance regulating the markers.
Mr. Treppeda explained that the Coral Gables Ordinance was overturned and they couldn't
enforce it.
It was the consensus of the Council that the issue be looked into.
Babak Raheb, 128 Balfour Drive, noted that FPL had markings on his property and
questioned if individuals could contact them and tell them to clean it up or they would be
sued. Assistant Mayor Blachar noted that could be tried.
Nina Rudolph, 212 Bal Bay Drive, reported that there was a new chalk that would wash
out after a period of time. Mr. Treppeda agreed and explained that the Village was trying to
pass an ordinance to require that chalk be used. He noted that the Village could ask, but
not require, that washable chalk be used. Councilwoman Cohen noted that there were no
markings in Palm Beach. Mr. Treppeda will look into Palm Beach.
D. MAYOR AND COUNCIL:
Designation of Bal Harbour's Director and Alternate to the
Miami -Dade County League of Cities Board of Directors: Assistant Mayor Blachar
explained the request from the Miami -Dade County League of Cities.
A motion was offered by Councilwoman Cohen and seconded by Councilman Sanz to designate
Assistant Mayor Blachar to serve as the Village's Director on the Miami Dade County League of
Cities Board of Directors. The motion carried (4-0).
A motion was offered by Assistant Mayor Blachar and seconded by Councilman Packer to
designate Councilman Packer to serve as the Village's Alternate on the Miami -Dade County
League of Cities Board of Directors. The motion carried (4-0).
10. OTHER BUSINESS:
Public Comment:
Bal Harbour Village Regular Council Meeting Minutes 02/15/2011 -
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Babak Raheb, 128 Balfour Drive, requested that the water rate be changed to the actual
amount used and not a minimum rate, which was too high. He also requested that the
Village compare its rates to other municipalities.
It was the consensus of the Council for Mr. Treppeda to look into. the minimum amount for the
water bills.
Anthony Gillam, 9800 Collins Avenue, discussed his building owning half of the street in
front of them. He questioned if that was .legally binding until it was challenged, etc. He
noted that their property deed didn't indicate that they owned the street and questioned if
they should be talking to their insurance company about extending the insurance to the
center of the street. Mr. Weiss clarified that it wasn't the Village's job to determine their
liability, but they should talk to their insurance company. He explained that his opinion was
given for guidance to the Council.
Mr. Gillam questioned who would arbitrate the appearance standards in the District. Mr.
Weiss explained that was private property. He explained that they were not being dictated
by the Village, but were being asked by the Village. He clarified that when a major street
job needed to be done an assessment was done by the Village to take care of it. He
explained that it was a service that the Village was providing to the residents.
Babak Raheb, 128 Balfour Drive, questioned if the Village could enforce its Code on
private property. Mr. Weiss advised that it could.
Dina Cellini, 211 Bal Cross Drive, requested clarification on the motion that was made
regarding the Lanai wall. Councilman Packer and Mr. Treppeda clarified that the motion
was to use security assessment funds to demolish the wall and replace it with a chain link
fence. Councilman Packer clarified that it was clear that there would be no break in the
security of the District.
Daniel Nieda, Building Official, explained that the $14,500 amount was a preliminary
estimate.
Don Orner, 10245 Collins Avenue, spoke against Ms. Travis' (Director of Tourism
Marketing) bonus being taken away, since she was doing a wonderful job. Councilman
Packer clarified that certain things needed to be addressed regarding the bonus and that it
would be brought back to the Council.
11. ADJOURN: There being no further business, a motion was offered by
Councilman Sant and seconded by Councilwoman Cohen to adjourn. The motion carried (4-0)
and the meeting was adjourned at 10:35 p.m.
Attest:
Ellisa L. Horvath, l Village Clerk
Bal Harbour Village Regular Council Meeting Minutes 02/15/2011
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