HomeMy Public PortalAbout01-January 12, 2022 RCMCITY OF OPA-LOCKA
"The Great City"
CLERK'S ACTION SUMMARY MINUTES
REGULAR COMMISSION MEETING
January 12, 2022
7:00 P.M.
1. CALL TO ORDER:
Mayor Williams called the meeting to order at 7:07 p.m. on Wednesday, January 12, 2022
at Sherbondy Village, 215 Perviz Avenue, Opa-locka, Florida.
2. ROLL CALL:
The following members of the City Commission were present: Commissioner Sherelean
Bass, Commissioner Chris Davis, Vice Mayor John H. Taylor Jr., and Mayor Vanessa J.
Williams. Also, in attendance were: City Manager John E. Pate, City Attorney Bumadette
Norris -Weeks and City Clerk Joanna Flores. Commissioner Audrey Dominguez joined the
Commission on the dais immediately following her swearing -in.
3. INVOCATION:
The Invocation was delivered by Vice Mayor Taylor.
4. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE:
The Pledge of Allegiance was recited in unison.
5. AWARDS/PROCLAMATIONS/ACKNOWLEDGMENTS:
Audrey Dominguez was sworn -in as a member of the City Commission and delivered
remarks reflecting on her appointment.
Mayor Williams invited Commissioner Audrey Dominguez to join her and the members of
the Commission, on the dais.
Human Resource Department Director Kierra Ward presented the Star of Excellence
Recognition to officers of the Opa-locka Police Department including Officer Stanley Jean -
Francois, Officer Marie Noel-Fenelon, Detective Bradley Saint-Aime, Officer Ivis Bustillo
and Officer Huguette Dumeus.
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — January 12, 2022
Mayor Williams congratulated the Police Officers who received the Star of Excellence
Award.
6. APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA AND PULL LIST (deferrals and deletions):
Mayor Williams pulled Item 13-7 from the Consent Agenda.
Vice Mayor Taylor pulled Item 13-6 from the Consent Agenda.
Vote taken on Consent Agenda items can be viewed under Agenda Item 12 - Action Items.
7. APPROVAL OF AGENDA:
It was moved by Vice Mayor Taylor, seconded by Commissioner Dominguez to approve
the Agenda.
There being no discussion, the motion to approve the Agenda passed by a 5-0 vote.
Commissioner Davis Yes
Commissioner Dominguez Yes
Vice Mayor Taylor Yes
Commissioner Bass Yes
Mayor Williams Yes
8. APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
Virtual Workshop Meeting Minutes — April 21, 2021
It was moved by Commissioner Davis, seconded by Vice Mayor Taylor to approve the
minutes of the Virtual Workshop Meeting Minutes — April 21, 2021.
There being no discussion, the motion to approve the minutes passed by a 5-0 vote.
Vice Mayor Taylor Yes
Commissioner Bass Yes
Commissioner Dominguez Yes
Commissioner Davis Yes
Mayor Williams Yes
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — December 8, 2021
It was moved by Commissioner Bass, seconded by Vice Mayor Taylor to approve the
minutes of the Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — December 8, 2021.
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — January 12, 2022 2
There being no discussion, the motion to approve the minutes passed by a 5-0 vote.
Vice Mayor Taylor Yes
Commissioner Bass Yes
Commissioner Davis Yes
Commissioner Dominguez Yes
Mayor Williams Yes
9. DISTRICT ONE / DISTRICT TWO - COUNTY COMMISSIONER REPORT:
There was none.
10. PUBLIC PRESENTATIONS:
There were none.
11. CITIZENS' FORUM:
(Opportunity for discussion of any concerns — please limit to 3 minutes)
City Clerk Joanna Flores announced the protocol for public participation at City
Commission meetings.
Mayor Williams opened the Citizens' Forum.
Mr. Lamar Cruse of 13831 NW 24th Avenue expressed concems about the cleaning of the
City' s alleyways, stating that he brought up the issue months ago and suggested that a team
from within Opa-locka be hired to clean them because he said they would save a lot of
money and the trash is being left in the alleyways when they are cleaned.
Ms. Dottie Johnson of 13724 NW 22nd Place congratulated Commissioner Dominguez
and thanked Vice Mayor Taylor for checking on her. Ms. Johnson expressed concerns
about the salaries for low-level City Employees and the news about the Police Department.
She urged the Commission to do the right thing and said that her prayer is that all corruption
in the City is unveiled.
Ms. Sandra Collado of 301 Bahman Avenue congratulated Commissioner Dominguez.
Ms. Collado expressed her opinion that each of the Commissioners over the past 50 years
have done nothing for the City.
Mayor Williams reminded Ms. Sandra Collado of the Commission's decorum policy that
all members of the public must adhere to.
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — January 12, 2022 3
Ms. Sandra Collado concluded her comments by stating that she prays every day to see
something new, because she sees the City looking like junk, with nothing for the children
and garbage everywhere at the park and urged the Commission to do their best for the City.
Natasha Ervin of 670 Dunad Avenue thanked everybody who supported the toy drive,
expressing that it was the hardest year because she always had Commissioner Burke with
her as an organizer of the drive for years, in addition to not getting as many donations as
usual. Ms. Ervin shared that she had not been satisfied with the number of bikes they had,
and that City Clerk Joanna Flores came through with many Bikes, which she felt was Burke
still working in the City. She informed the Commission that business owners like Mr.
Vega and Commissioner Burke's Department of Corrections retirement team gave checks
as well, and that the photographer and Santa were Commissioner Burke's friends. Ms.
Ervin added that she is also concerned about the Police Depaituient. She concluded her
comments by stating that she is tired of defending Opa-locka against people that don't
know the City, and that she wants the City to be all it can be, offering her help as well as
the help of the Booster Club.
There being no additional members of the public to address the Commission, Mayor
Williams closed the Citizen's Forum.
City Manager Pate acknowledged that traditionally the Commission makes comments
before the City Manager but asked if he could be allowed to make comments first.
Mayor Williams asked the members of the Commission if they would be okay with City
Manager Pate's request to make comments first and based on the acknowledgement from
the Commission, she recognized the Manager.
City Manager Pate wished everybody a Happy New Year and thanked those who made
comments during the public forum. The City Manager said that for the year 2022, he would
like to have more people make public comments and shared that he had a very long
conversation with Mayor Williams last week about the public coming to meetings and
voicing their concerns to drive change in the decisions made by the dais and the Manager.
He suggested that more workshops should be scheduled with more engagements and said
that he is planning to schedule a town hall with the Mayor to get the public to come out
and make comments about what they want to see in the City. Mr. Pate said that he strives
every day to be the best Manager he can be but said that he is only successful with the input
of the public, the support of his Staff, engagement from Directors and most importantly,
input from the Commission who he said he works for daily to make Opa-locka the best city
possible. He thanked Mr. Lamar Cruse for speaking on the alleyways and stated that the
request for proposals for the cleaning of the alleyways, is in the process of being rejected
with a new bid being put out shortly, because only one company submitted a proposal and
that it was not agreed on by the State of Florida. Mr. Pate asserted that the debris should
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — January 12, 2022 4
be picked up and disposed of by the company, and not left for the Public Works Department
to do. He also said that he is proud of the hires within the Public Works Department to
address those matters, acknowledging that more needs to be done. City Manager Pate
pointed out that the City is currently engaged in negotiations with both the American
Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees and the Police Benevolent
Association. He offered assurances that once the contracts are ratified, salaries will be
increased, and appropriate bonuses will be given. Mr. Pate said that the contracts had not
been addressed for 10 years and that it was both the City's fault because there was no way
to negotiate with the turnover in City Managers, and he also said it is the Union's fault
because they should have filed a lawsuit for unfair labor practices to force the negotiations.
City Manager Pate made a distinction between corruption and wrongdoing, offering
assurances that any corruption in the City is being appropriately addressed and takes time,
and that the wrongdoing of personnel is being addressed appropriately. He stated that the
Police Department has a very strong Chief, overseeing the process to take all disciplinary
actions. Mr. Pate said that he has always held employees accountable for their actions,
adding that he has terminated more employees since he has been Manager, than in the past.
He also stated that regardless of the bad press Opa-locka gets, the City is moving forward
and said he thinks it's essential that the positive things going on in the City, be promoted
this year, including the roads that have been paved, the sidewalks that have been installed,
the lighting that has been done in Ingram Park. City Manager Pate noted all that has been
accomplished in the 2 years he's been in Opa-locka and said that more is going to be done
in 2022. Recognizing the City's Staff as strong, and stating that stronger Staff is being
hired, he said that the issues are being addressed and that Opa-locka is going to be made a
better place. Lamenting that the City is haunted by the past, he stressed that if the past is
held onto, the City cannot move into the future. Mr. Pate also shared that he will release
an annual report in the next 2 weeks and that a mailer will be going out to all residents,
including a performance document on the accomplishments of the City over the past 2
years. City Manager Pate expressed his feeling that the City has an outstanding dais that
moves the City forward. He offered assurances that any concern brought to him is
addressed immediately but pointed out that he can't address it if he doesn't know,
encouraging everyone to come to him to address their issues. Mr. Pate urged members of
the public and the dais to address concerns about the Police Depaitiuent to Police Chief
Dennis Jackson, stating that he is going to be Chief for a very long time and needs to know
what he needs to do to move the agency forward. City Manager Pate thanked Chief Jackson
for doing an excellent job, for supporting him as Manager and for supporting the City. He
noted that the City had 2 toy drives, with one being sponsored by Vice Mayor Taylor and
Teen Up -ward Bound while the other one was sponsored by the Optimist Booster Club and
Commissioner Burke's friends and family. Mr. Pate said that last year was the first year
during which the City donated significant funds to the toy drive to ensure that there were
enough toys for all the kids in the City, and he offered assurances that the City will move
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — January 12, 2022 5
forward with providing those funds to make sure that the toy drives are even more
successful. City Manager Pate concluded by stating that he thinks that in the new year, it
is significant that he speaks on these things directly and head-on.
City Attorney Bumadette Norris -Weeks stated that she thinks Mr. Pate was speaking
freely, but that she wanted to make sure it was on the record that she does not believe there
is a legal basis for an unfair labor practice grievance from the Unions, so that what was
said is in no way used against the City.
Commissioner Dominguez addressed Mr. Lamar Cruse's comments regarding the
alleyways, stating that this week her neighbor brought to her attention the junk in the
alleyway including a metal shoe rack, headboard, car bumper and bath stand. The
Commissioner stated that she didn't have a chance to report it, and that her neighbor found
someone to take the garbage, but she asserted that it is something that the City needs to
check out.
Commissioner Davis echoed the remarks made by Commissioner Dominguez, sharing that
he has had some of the same issues with the cleaning of the alleyways at his house. The
Commissioner said he knows it is on City Manager Pate's radar but asked to ensure that
the proper procedures are in place so that residents are not put at a disadvantage when the
alleyways are cleaned.
Commissioner Bass shared that she sometimes takes walks around the City, and said that
one Saturday she noticed the trash, but also noticed alleyways that were nice and clean,
adding that they're not all nasty and dirty. The Commissioner concluded by stating that
she will not dignify the next comment that was made, with an answer.
Vice Mayor Taylor echoed the sentiments of his colleagues and said that they want
beautification to be at the forefront, to make sure that the City is clean and remains clean
because residents want to have pride about where they live.
Mayor Williams stated that there seems to have been an uptick of garbage in the
neighborhood, acknowledging that the Public Works Depai tment is working diligently to
clean as much as they can with the County. The Mayor also recognized that the illegal
dumping legislation is taking a while because of the budget, and that City Staff has been
on break, but said that it is imperative for the members of the Commission as residents and
all residents to say something if they see something so that it can be fixed because she said
it is out of control. Mayor Williams concluded by noting that Commissioner Bass didn't
want to dignify the comments that were made with an answer, but she said that everyone
on the Commission has been doing a spectacular job and offered assurances that they are
going to continue to move forward. She said that despite being hit, she acknowledged that
like Ms. Ervin said, all they can do is continue to shine a positive light on the City.
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — January 12, 2022 6
City Manager Pate pointed out that the City has an application on iPhone and Android titled
"Build Better Opa-locka - See Click Fix" where issues can be reported and pictures can be
uploaded, to be sent to the appropriate department and addressed. The City Manager also
informed the Commission that he and Assistant City Manager George Ellis drive around
and put miles on their vehicles each week as they drive the City to look at areas of concern
and try to address what's going on in the City. He pointed out that the City Staff is just
coming out of a holiday, with Miami -Dade County and Miami Gardens being 3 weeks
behind on bulky trash pickup, in addition to the new COVID variant that is hitting
everybody's staff, stating that there is going to be some lag in responsiveness but that it is
the priority to address those areas. Mr. Pate acknowledged that Commissioner Dominguez
sent him several pictures of areas of concern that he said are being addressed and suggested
that residents and Commissioners do the same through the application.
12. ACTION ITEMS (items from consent agenda pull list):
It was moved by Commissioner Davis, seconded by Vice Mayor Taylor to approve the
Consent Agenda (agenda items 13-1, 13-2, 13-3, 13-4 and 13-5).
There being no discussion, the motion to approve the Consent Agenda passed by a 5-0
vote.
Commissioner Davis Yes
Commissioner Dominguez Yes
Vice Mayor Taylor Yes
Commissioner Bass Yes
Mayor Williams Yes
1 113-61 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF
OPA-LOCKA, FLORIDA, AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO
PARTICIPATE IN THE MIAMI-DADE COUNTY ACQUIRED
STRUCTURES PROGRAM AND ENTER INTO AN AGREEMENT WITII
MIAMI-DADE FIRE RESCUE DEPARTMENT FOR SAME; PROVIDING
FOR INCORPORATION OF RECITALS; PROVIDING FOR AN
EFFECTIVE DATE. Sponsored by City Manager
The above resolution was read by City Attorney Burnadette Norris -Weeks.
Mayor Williams asked City Manager Pate to introduce Agenda Item 12-1.
City Manager Pate asked Public Works Director Airia Austin to introduce Agenda
Item 12-1.
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — January 12, 2022 7
Public Works Director Airia Austin stated that since the Police facility has been
designated for demolition, the Fire Department would like to utilize it to perform
non-destructive training in the interior in addition to some training on the exterior.
Mr. Austin informed the Commission that a member of the Miami -Dade County
Fire Department is available to provide them with insight on what will be
transpiring at the facility.
Mr. John DiBlasi, Battalion Chief from the Miami -Dade County Fire Rescue
Department explained that they got word that the old Police building is going to be
demolished and that the Acquired Structure Program that he has been working on
for the last 2 years, has them working with larger developers and the County,
looking for buildings slated to be demolished, to give the personnel from the Fire
Department, hands-on training that they can't get in their training facility. He said
that despite having a state-of-the-art training facility with props that teach the basics
on how to break open doors and windows, as well as cut holes, training in buildings
that are going to be demolished will give them the experience needed to provide
better and safer service to the public as well as keep the men and women of the Fire
Department safer in their day-to-day activities.
It was moved by Vice Mayor Taylor, seconded by Commissioner Dominguez to
discuss Agenda Item 12-1.
Vice Mayor Taylor stated that he welcomes the partnership between the City and
the Miami -Dade County Fire Department but said that he was a little confused
because if someone gets hurt, nobody has an answer for who is responsible,
considering that the building is deemed an unsafe structure and is scheduled to be
demolished.
Miami -Dade County Fire Rescue Department Senior Legal Liaison, Ms. Flora Seff
stated that the County is responsible if someone gets hurt.
Vice Mayor Taylor asked if there was any liability on the City at all.
Ms. Flora Seff stated that there is no liability on the City at all.
Vice Mayor Taylor asked if there will be paperwork to show that the County is
responsible if someone gets hurt and there is no liability on the City.
City Attorney Norris -Weeks stated that the way the contract provided by the
Miami -Dade County Fire Depaitnient reads, it is not clear that it's the County that
is responsible. The City Attorney said that it is her understanding from her
conversations with the Fire Department's council, that the contract provided was a
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — January 12, 2022 8
standard one used by the County that has been approved and could not be changed.
She said that while she can't speak for the Manager, she believes he thought the
liability would be low because it's going to be a demolished structure anyway.
Ms. Flora Seff informed the Commission that she worked with the Assistant County
Attorney on the contract provided and added that the program is being used
throughout the County, as well as by different Fire Departments in the State of
Florida and throughout the country. She assured the Commission that the intent
was that if anything happened to any of the Miami -Dade County Fire Department
employees while they were in the process of training in a structure, they would be
covered by the Fire Department's workers compensation insurance, despite the
standard hold harmless indemnification clause in County contracts. Pointing out
that the program had to get the approval of the Miami -Dade Board of County
Commissioners, she said that any change in the contract would have to go back
before the board. She also shared that 10 different structures including homes and
multi -story buildings have participated in the program and none of them asked them
to do anything and nobody was injured.
Battalion Chief John DiBlasi pointed out that the contract being put forth also states
that the Miami -Dade County Fire Rescue Department is self -insured and will
provide workman's compensation for their employees, should somebody be injured
while training within the property that's going to be demolished.
Mayor Williams asked if workman's compensation insurance will cover the City if
something happens and someone wants to sue.
City Attorney Norris -Weeks acknowledged that the liability is probably very low,
but that the contract is designed to ensure full protection because something could
happen, and she noted that the contract being put forth stipulates that the City is
completely liable if anything happens on the site while the Miami -Dade County
Fire Rescue is training. The City Attorney suggested that if the intent is different,
it can be considered by the Miami -Dade Board of County Commissioners before it
comes back to the Opa-locka Commission.
Ms. Flora Seff expressed concerns that it would probably take at least 6 months to
get any change to the contract, before the Miami -Dade Board of County
Commissioners, and that she believes the permitting process has already begun for
the building's demolition.
Vice Mayor Taylor asked if the resolution proposed in Agenda Item 12-1 can be
amended to add language stipulating that the City will not be held liable if sued and
Miami -Dade County would take full responsibility.
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — January 12, 2022 9
City Attorney Norris -Weeks explained that the resolution proposed in Agenda Item
12-1 could not be amended to remove liability from the City, because the contract
that the Miami -Dade County Fire Rescue Department is willing to enter into, says
the opposite.
City Manager Pate stated that the permit is already in place for the demolition of
the property, there is very low liability for any injury, and asked for the
Commission's support of the resolution proposed in Agenda Item 12-1. The City
Manager reiterated that 10 other municipalities have done it, and Opa-locka is not
a test municipality. He said that he supports the partnership with the Miami -Dade
County Fire Rescue Department and said that based on his conversation with the
Chief today, they are going to do many more things together for the residents. Mr.
Pate concluded by saying that the real issue is whether employees will be injured
in the process of the training in the building, and added that the attorney for Miami -
Dade County Fire Rescue stated that their worker's compensation insurance will
handle any employee injuries, and that because the building will be demolished in
the next month and a half, it would be pointless to take the contract being put forth,
back to the Miami -Dade Board of County Commissioners.
Battalion Chief John DiBlasi informed the Commission that they would have the
option in the contract put forth, to allow Miami -Dade County Fire Rescue to engage
in destructive or non-destructive training. The Battalion Chief explained that non-
destructive training includes taking hose lines into the building to simulate
searching for a fire, in addition to search and rescue activities for downed
firefighters and civilians, as well as ladder operations on the exterior of the building.
He also explained that destructive training would be inside to maintain the building
secure from unwelcome guests, in addition to cutting ventilation holes in the roof.
Battalion Chief DiBlasi concluded by stating that while any training works out well
for them, the huge benefit is destructive training.
Commissioner Davis said that he had the same concerns as Vice Mayor Taylor
around liability. The Commissioner pointed out that the City outsources its fire
services, working well with Miami -Dade County and he asserted that the City
would like to build on that partnership. He asked if the training program was for
new recruits or experienced firefighters.
Battalion Chief John DiBlasi informed the Commission that the training taking
place through the Miami -Dade County Fire Rescue Department acquired structures
program, is available to all personnel already operating in the field, particularly
units responding to Opa-locka and Miami Gardens. The Battalion Chief pointed
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — January 12, 2022 10
out that one of the benefits to the program is that they don't have to travel to other
locations and are training in their cities.
Commissioner Davis expressed being a little uneasy given his knowledge on how
memorandums of understanding and agreements work, and that the contract being
put forth clearly states that the City has liability. The Commissioner said that
because he thinks it would be a great partnership and recognizes that the Miami -
Dade County Fire Rescue Department could get some good training in until the
building is demolished, he recommended that his colleagues consider approving
non-destructive training which he said would present less liability and he would
feel more comfortable.
City Manager Pate suggested that the Commission can mandate him to only
approve non-destructive training for the Miami -Dade County Fire Rescue
Department.
City Attorney Norris -Weeks stated that she thinks the contract being put forth by
the Miami -Dade County Fire Rescue Department is more expansive and she doesn't
know if it limits.
Ms. Flora Seff stated that the contract put forth by the Miami -Dade County Fire
Rescue Department has two boxes which state that the owner of the building set to
be demolished, agrees to allow the department use of the property for the purposes
of either non-destructive or destructive training.
City Attorney Norris -Weeks informed the Commission that the non-destructive box
could be checked on the contract being put forth by the Miami -Dade County Fire
Rescue Department and the resolution proposed in Agenda Item 12-1 could be
revised to proceed.
Mayor Williams stated that she thinks the proposal to limit the Miami -Dade County
Fire Rescue Department training to non-destructive, would ease the Commission a
little bit.
Commissioner Davis made a motion to approve the Miami -Dade County Fire
Rescue Department non-destructive training, which includes area searches, rapid
intervention team building construction, apparatus replacement as well as incident
command system tactics and strategy, and the motion was seconded by
Commissioner Bass.
There being no further discussion, the motion to amend the resolution passed by a
4-1 vote.
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — January 12, 2022 11
Commissioner Dominguez Yes
Vice Mayor Taylor No
Commissioner Bass Yes
Commissioner Davis Yes
Mayor Williams Yes
There being no further discussion, the resolution passed by a 4-1 vote.
Commissioner Bass Yes
Commissioner Davis Yes
Commissioner Dominguez Yes
Vice Mayor Taylor No
Mayor Williams Yes
2. [13-7] A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF
OPA-LOCKA, FLORIDA, AUTHORIZING THE SALE OF DECLARED
CLOSED, VACATED AND ABANDONED CITY PROPERTY BETWEEN
THE PARCELS IDENTIFIED BY FOLIOS 08-2128-002-0020; 08-2128-002-
0030; 08-2128-002-0040; 08- 2128-002-0050; 08-2128-002-0060; 08-2128-002-
0090; 08-2128-004-0380; AND 08-2128-004- 0330; APPROVING AN
AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF OPA-LOCKA AND IDMA
HOLDINGS, LLC. FOR THE SALE AND PURCHASE OF SAID VACANT
LAND, IN THE I-2 ZONING DISTRICT, IN THE AMOUNT OF THREE
HUNDRED SIX THOUSAND, NINE HUNDRED SIXTY-THREE
DOLLARS ($306,963.00); FURTHER AUTHORIZING THE CITY
MANAGER TO EXECUTE THE AGREEMENT FOR SALE AND
PURCHASE OF VACANT LAND IN "AS IS" CONDITION; AND TO TAKE
ALL OTHER NECESSARY ACTIONS TO EFFECTUATE THE INTENT
OF THIS RESOLUTION; PROVIDING FOR INCORPORATION OF
RECITALS; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. Sponsored by City
Manager
The above resolution was read by City Attorney Burnadette Norris -Weeks.
It was moved by Vice Mayor Taylor, seconded by Commissioner Bass to discuss
Agenda Item 12-2.
Mayor Williams asked City Manager Pate to introduce Agenda Item 12-2.
City Manager Pate asked City Attorney Norris -Weeks to introduce a friendly
amendment to Agenda Item 12-2.
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — January 12, 2022 12
City Attorney Norris -Weeks asked the Commission to approve Agenda Item 12-2
subject to the corrections made to the proposed resolution, as suggested by her and
Ms. Hope Calhoun. The City Attorney reminded the Commission that they had
previously passed the proposed project and the proposed resolution is just
approving the agreement for sale and purchase of the vacant land in as -is condition,
as well as the quitclaim deed. She said that the minor changes included correcting
the "30" in the second paragraph to "3 years" as well as including "shall not be
deemed" in the third paragraph.
Ms. Hope Calhoun confirmed that she had spoken to City Attorney Norris -Weeks
about the changes to the resolution proposed in Agenda Item 12-2, and she said that
they have no issues with them.
It was moved by Mayor Williams to amend the resolution proposed in Agenda Item
12-2 based on the changes recommended by the City Attorney.
There being no discussion on the motion, the amendment to the resolution passed
by a 5-0 vote.
Vice Mayor Taylor Yes
Commissioner Bass Yes
Commissioner Davis Yes
Commissioner Dominguez Yes
Mayor Williams Yes
It was moved by Vice Mayor Taylor, seconded by Commissioner Davis to pass the
resolution as amended.
There being no further discussion on Agenda Item 12-2, the resolution passed by a
5-0 vote.
Commissioner Bass Yes
Commissioner Davis Yes
Commissioner Dominguez Yes
Vice Mayor Taylor Yes
Mayor Williams Yes
13. ADMINISTRATION:
CONSENT AGENDA:
. A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMIYHSSION OF THE CITY OF OPA-
LOCKA, FLORIDA, AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — January 12, 2022 13
EXECUTE AMENDMENT #2 TO THE STATE OF FLORIDA
DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION LOAN
AGREEMENT WW800050 TO CONVERT DEBT PAYMENTS TO
INTEREST ONLY PAYMENTS FROM DECEMBER 2021 THROUGH
JUNE 2023; PROVIDING FOR INCORPORATION OF RECITALS;
PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. Sponsored by City Manager
2. A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF OPA-
LOCKA, FLORIDA, AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO
INITIATE A LOAN OF $1,000,000 FROM THE GENERAL FUND TO THE
WATER AND SEWER FUND; PROVIDING FOR INCORPORATION OF
RECITALS; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. Sponsored by City
Manager
3. A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF OPA-
LOCKA, FLORIDA, AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO
PIGGYBACK THE MIAMI-DADE COUNTY CONTRACT WITH H&R
PAVING, INC. FOR QUALIFIED PROFESSIONAL SERVICES FOR
ROADWAY RESURFACING, PURSUANT TO REQUEST PRICE
QUOTATION (RPQ) # 20200203, TO WIDEN AND RESURFACE INGRAM
PARK TRAILS; AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO ENTER
INTO AN AGREEMENT TO PROVIDE MILLING AND RESURFACING
SERVICES WITHIN THE, CITY, IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED
NINETY-NINE THOUSAND, FOUR HUNDRED SEVENTY-SEVEN
DOLLARS ($99,477.00), IN ADDITION TO A CONTINGENCY BUDGET
OF NINE THOUSAND, NINE HUNDRED FORTY-EIGHT DOLLARS
($9,948.00); PROVIDING FOR INCORPORATION OF RECITALS;
PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. Sponsored by City Manager
4. A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF OPA-
LOCKA, FLORIDA, AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO ENTER
INTO AN AGREEMENT WITH SSN ENGINEERING, LLC. FOR
CONTINUING PROFESSIONAL ARCHITECTURAL AND
ENGINEERING CONSULTING SERVICES FOR THE
REHABILITATION OF PUMP STATIONS 9, 12, AND 16, WITHIN THE
CITY, IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED ONE HUNDRED FIFTY
THOUSAND DOLLARS ($150,000.00), WITH AN ADDITIONAL FIFTEEN
THOUSAND ($15,000.00) CONTINGENCY BUDGET; PROVIDING FOR
INCORPORATION OF RECITALS; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE
DATE. Sponsored by City Manager
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — January 12, 2022 14
5. A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF OPA-
LOCKA, FLORIDA, AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO ENTER
INTO AN AGREEMENT WITH H.W. LOCHNER INC. TO PROVIDE
ENGINEERING CONSULTING SERVICES FOR THE WATER MAIN
EXTENSION FROM OPA-LOCKA BOULEVARD TO SUPERIOR
STREET AND TO FACILITATE A NEW FIRE HYDRANT AT THE
CORNER OF AHMAD AND SUPERIOR STREETS, IN AN AMOUNT NOT
TO EXCEED ELEVEN THOUSAND, EIGHT HUNDRED SIXTY
DOLLARS ($11,860.00), IN ADDITION TO A CONTINGENCY BUDGET
OF ONE THOUSAND ONE HUNDRED EIGHTY-SIX THOUSAND
DOLLARS ($1,186.00); PROVIDING FOR INCORPORATION OF
RECITALS; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. Sponsored by City
Manager
Vote taken on Consent Agenda items can be viewed under Agenda Item 12 - Action
Items.
14. NEW ITEMS:
There were none.
15. PLANNING & ZONING:
A. PUBLIC HEARINGS:
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF
OPA-LOCKA, FLORIDA, APPROVING THE FINAL SITE PLAN
REVIEW REQUEST FOR THE CONSTRUCTION AND
OPERATION OF AN INDUSTRIAL WAREHOUSE /
DISTRIBUTION AND OFFICE SPACE DEVELOPMENT
BUILDING LOCATED AT 12805 LE JEUNE ROAD AND
IDENTIFIED BY FOLIO 08-2129-000-0061 IN THE I-3 ZONING
DISTRICT; PROVIDING FOR INCORPORATION OF RECITALS;
PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. Sponsored by City
Manager DEFERRED FROM RCM 12/08/2021
The above resolution was read by City Attorney Burnadette Norris -Weeks.
Mayor Williams asked City Manager Pate to introduce Agenda Item 15-A-
1.
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — January 12, 2022 15
City Manager Pate asked Planning & Community Development Director
Gregory Gay to introduce Agenda Item 15-A-1.
Planning & Community Development Director Gregory Gay informed the
Commission that Agenda Items 15-A-1, 15-A-2 and 15-A-3 are companion
items associated with the Prologis development that was presented at the
December 8th meeting. Mr. Gay reminded the Commission that questions
were raised regarding the site plan and the Moorish architecture, and he said
that the client provided additional renderings with more detail. He said that
the second item proposes a variance for more compact parking spaces
measuring 8 %2' X 18' instead of the City's standard parking spot which
measures 10' X 20', to allow more parking on the site. Mr. Gay added that
the third item incorporated modifications to the development agreement
which included conditions for long-term maintenance as well as training
and long-term employment opportunities for residents of Opa-locka. He
concluded by stating that representation from Prologis was available to
answer any additional questions.
City Manager Pate stated that he understood the concerns about the design
for the development proposed in Agenda Items 15-A-1, 15-A-2 and 15-A-
3, as expressed by the Commission at the last meeting, and he offered
assurances that it has been resolved. The City Manager also said that he
agreed with and supported Mr. Lamar Cruse who had made a statement
about parking at the last Commission meeting, but he said that the parking
is on the property owned by the business for their employees and visitors.
He also shared that a future workshop will be scheduled to explain the
development plan for the City, adding that he understands the
Commission's desire for other retail developments which he said that
properties are available for, but he also pointed out that the City is made up
of over 50% commercial and industrial properties including in the area
where the proposed development is located, and thus is appropriate for that
area. City Manager Pate concluded by reporting that he reviewed the
project extensively and asked for the Commission's support on the items.
Mayor Williams opened the Public Hearing for Agenda Item 15-A-1.
Mr. Robert Holland of the Law Offices of Robert W. Holland, located at
3250 NE 1st Avenue, stated that 37th & 42nd Avenue are the corridors on
which jobs will be developed in the City. Mr. Holland pointed out that retail
jobs pay minimum wage that Opa-locka would have to compete with
everyone for, while industrial jobs pay 2%2 times that amount, which people
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — January 12, 2022 16
can build careers around, and therefore if the Commission wants to bring
up the expendable income in the City, these are the types of jobs they want
to bring into the community. He explained that the jobs would not include
manufacturing because they would be clean industrial logistics jobs and
added that industrial businesses are donor businesses because the City
doesn't provide a lot of Police or trash service to them and thus the tax base
goes back into the residential community. Mr. Holland pointed out that
because of the COVED -19 pandemic's impact on the supply chain, people
are ordering more stuff online and he asserted that Opa-locka is primed to
get a vast portion of that business because it is central to the rail line, airport,
highways, and Amazon facility. Addressing the proposed variance for the
reduced parking space size, Mr. Holland said that the parking spaces would
be for employees that are coming to work, parking their car and staying
there all day, and he said that there will not be commercial activity with
constant egress and ingress. Mr. Holland also addressed some of the
concerns the Commission had about the look of the building, offering
assurances that more Moorish principles have been added, including tile
work and exterior elegant lighting, but acknowledging that the proposed
design for the building does not have the pointed arches. He said that
whenever he's come before the Commission he's always argued for
maintenance, and he also said that everywhere you go where there is a
Prologis, you will see a well -maintained place. In addition to dealing with
Career Source as stated in the development agreement, Mr. Holland stated
he thinks one of the missing gaps is hiring a public relations firm that knows
how to roll out the messaging for job fairs to get more people to apply for
the jobs, in addition to placing the jobs on the City's website. He also said
they'll continue contributing to the City in a very socially responsible way,
sharing that they're working on a training program in conjunction with the
Miami -Dade County School Board, the Beacon Council, the Carrie Meek
Foundation and he said they are hoping to bring Florida Memorial into the
equation since they have funding from the Miami Dolphins and Lennar for
trade training. Mr. Holland concluded by stating that they are willing to be
part of the leading edge, showing people what they should be doing
responsibly as developers seeking to be in Opa-locka, and urged the
Commission to take advantage of the cargo distribution business that he said
would be big bucks for the City.
Ms. Tracy Slavens from the Law Offices of Holland & Knight located at
701 Brickell Avenue assured the Commission that they were heard, and
significant adjustments were made to the elevations for the proposed
development, to make sure that it complies with the Moorish architectural
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — January 12, 2022 17
style. Ms. Slavens thanked Interim Manager of the Community
Redevelopment Agency, Mr. Corion DeLaine who she said worked
extremely hard to push to help with job training and recruitment, already
putting them in touch with the Beacon Council and Miami -Dade College
with which they have a meeting scheduled for later this month to make the
program a reality and help Opa-locka residents get jobs in Opa-locka. She
concluded by thanking the Commission for their comments last month,
because she stated that they are delivering a better project and benefits to
the City.
There being no additional members of the public to address the
Commission, Mayor Williams closed the Public Hearing for Agenda Item
15-A-1.
It was moved by Vice Mayor Taylor, seconded by Commissioner
Dominguez to discuss Agenda Item 15-A-1.
Vice Mayor Taylor stated that he loves the changes to the proposed
development that were presented, and he likes a lot of the things that Mr.
Holland said including hiring the public relations firm and partnering with
the City to promote jobs on the website. The Vice Mayor suggested that a
covenant agreement for maintenance and security be made with developers
going forward in addition to the developer's agreement, because he said that
Opa-locka is trying to become a safer and more beautiful neighborhood.
Ms. Tracy Slavens stated that she took time to look at the City's code and
recommended that the Code Compliance Chapter is an excellent place to
adopt standards for maintenance and security that would apply uniformly to
new and old buildings and are not up for negotiation by every developer.
Mayor Williams thanked the developers of the proposed project for
updating the lighting and for adding the maintenance agreement, as well as
for continuing to work with the City. The Mayor gave a shout out to Interim
Manager of the Community Redevelopment Agency, Corion DeLaine for
his support.
City Manager Pate stated that he asked Planning & Community
Development Director Gregory Gay and his Staff to come up with revisions
within 30 days that would incorporate Vice Mayor Taylor's suggestions into
the City's code, instead of creating a separate covenant, to ensure that
everybody that develops in Opa-locka is held accountable appropriately.
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — January 12, 2022 18
The City Manager offered to have the Vice Mayor co-sponsor the legislation
when it is presented to the Commission.
There being no further discussion on Agenda Item 15-A-1, the resolution
passed by a 5-0 vote.
Commissioner Davis Yes
Commissioner Dominguez Yes
Vice Mayor Taylor Yes
Commissioner Bass Yes
Mayor Williams Yes
2. A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF
OPA-LOCKA, FLORIDA, APPROVING THE VARIANCE
REQUEST FOR THE CONSTRUCTION AND OPERATION OF AN
INDUSTRIAL WAREHOUSE / DISTRIBUTION AND OFFICE
SPACE DEVELOPMENT BUILDING LOCATED AT 12805 LE
JEUNE ROAD AND IDENTIFIED BY FOLIO 08-2129-000-0061 IN
THE I-3 ZONING DISTRICT; PROVIDING FOR
INCORPORATION OF RECITALS; PROVIDING FOR AN
EFFECTIVE DATE. Sponsored by City Manager DEFERRED FROM
RCM 12/08/2021
The above resolution was read by City Attorney Burnadette Norris -Weeks.
It was moved by Vice Mayor Taylor, seconded by Commissioner Bass to
discuss Agenda Item 15-A-2.
Mayor Williams asked City Manager Pate to introduce Agenda Item 15-A-
2.
City Manager Pate stated that Agenda Item 15-A-2 has already been
introduced by Planning & Community Development Director Gregory Gay.
With no further comment, the City Manager asked the commission to
proceed.
Mayor Williams opened the Public Hearing for Agenda Item 15-A-2.
Ms. Sandra Collado of 301 Bahman Avenue stated that the City has no
lights in the park.
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — January 12, 2022 19
Mayor Williams reminded Ms. Sandra Collado that members of the public
are only able to speak about the current agenda item during the public
hearing for that item.
Mr. Lamar Cruse of 13831 NW 24th Avenue noted that the requested
variance for the proposed development would reduce the size of the parking
spaces to 8 feet and he said that 10 feet is preferable because the police
won't have to be called because somebody's getting in an argument because
a car door is too close. Mr. Cruse also said that he hopes the size of the
parking spaces is addressed, because although the representatives for the
developers stated that the parking will only be for the businesses' officials,
he noted that they said they were going to hire people from Opa-locka, and
he is concerned that the size of the parking spaces will be a future problem.
Ms. Tracy Slavens from the Law Offices of Holland & Knight located at
701 Brickell Avenue stated that the size for the parking spaces for the
proposed development, would be the standard size of the parking spaces in
unincorporated Miami -Dade County and many municipalities, clarifying
that they are not asking for compact parking spaces. Ms. Slavens added that
the reason the variance to reduce the size of the parking space is being
requested, is because by picking up 1 %2 feet from each parking space, the
parking lot will be able to provide 248 parking spaces as opposed to 151
parking spaces, which equates to the number of employees they expect to
have at the site. She also noted that with the proposal for the 247,000 square
foot building, they will have approximately one employee for every 1,000
square feet and worked hard to have adequate parking to attract Class A
tenants and so that those who are employed are able to park at their job.
There being no additional members of the public to address the
Commission, Mayor Williams closed the Public Hearing for Agenda Item
15-A-2.
There being no further discussion on Agenda Item 15-A-2, the resolution
passed by a 5-0 vote.
Commissioner Dominguez Yes
Vice Mayor Taylor Yes
Commissioner Bass Yes
Commissioner Davis Yes
Mayor Williams Yes
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — January 12, 2022 20
3. A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF
OPA-LOCKA, FLORIDA, APPROVING A DEVELOPMENT
AGREEMENT FOR THE CONSTRUCTION AND OPERATION OF
AN INDUSTRIAL WAREHOUSE / DISTRIBUTION AND OFFICE
SPACE DEVELOPMENT BUILDING LOCATED AT 12805 LE
JEUNE ROAD AND IDENTIFIED BY FOLIO 08-2129-000-0061 IN
THE I-3 ZONING DISTRICT; PROVIDING FOR
INCORPORATION OF RECITALS; PROVIDING FOR AN
EFFECTIVE DATE. Sponsored by City Manager DEFERRED FROM
RCM 12/08/2021
The above resolution was read by City Attorney Burnadette Norris -Weeks.
It was moved by Commissioner Bass, seconded by Vice Mayor Taylor to
discuss Agenda Item 15-A-3.
Mayor Williams asked City Manager Pate to introduce Agenda Item 15-A-
3.
City Manager Pate stated that Agenda Item 15-A-2 has already been
introduced by Planning & Community Development Director Gregory Gay.
The City Manager asked that the proposed item go forward for public
hearing and the Commission's vote.
Mayor Williams opened the Public Hearing for Agenda Item 15-A-3.
Ms. Tracy Slavens from the Law Offices of Holland & Knight located at
701 Brickell Avenue thanked the Commission for their support and stated
that it is sincerely appreciated.
There being no additional members of the public to address the
Commission, Mayor Williams closed the Public Hearing for Agenda Item
15-A-3.
Commissioner Davis noted that the development agreement included the
maintenance letter, and that the agreement also addressed the concerns he
had regarding training.
There being no further discussion on Agenda Item 15-A-3, the resolution
passed by a 5-0 vote.
Vice Mayor Taylor Yes
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — January 12, 2022 21
Commissioner Bass Yes
Commissioner Davis Yes
Commissioner Dominguez Yes
Mayor Williams Yes
B. APPEALS;
There were none.
16. ORDINANCES/RESOLUTIONS/PUBLIC HEARINGS:
A. FIRST READING ORDINANCE(S)/PUBLIC HEARING(S):
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF
OPA-LOCKA, FLORIDA, AMENDING CHAPTER 85 ENTITLED
"ELECTIONS" OF THE CITY CODE OF ORDINANCES BY
CREATING SECTION 8.5-10 TO REQUIRE ELECTRONIC FILING
OF CAMPAIGN FINANCE REPORTS WITH THE CITY CLERK
OF TIIE CITY OF OPA-LOCKA; PROVIDING FOR CONFLICT;
PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING FOR
INCLUSION IN CODE; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE
DATE. Sponsored by City Clerk
The above resolution was read by City Attorney Bumadette Norris -Weeks.
It was moved by Commissioner Davis, seconded by Vice Mayor Taylor to
discuss Agenda Item 16-A-1.
Mayor Williams asked City Clerk Joanna Flores to introduce Agenda Item
16-A-1.
City Clerk Flores informed the Commission that Agenda Item 16-A-1
proposes the first reading for an ordinance that would allow the Clerk's
Office to accept campaign finance reports electronically from candidates
during the election process. The City Clerk pointed out that the State of
Florida, Miami -Dade County and several surrounding municipalities
currently accept campaign finance reports electronically, but that it must be
passed through legislation by the Commission for the process of accepting
campaign finance reports electronically in Opa-locka.
Mayor Williams opened the Public Hearing for Agenda Item 16-A-1.
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — January 12, 2022 22
There being no members of the public to address the Commission, Mayor
Williams closed the Public Hearing for Agenda Item 16-A-1.
Vice Mayor Taylor stated that he thinks the item proposing the
establishment of electronic campaign fmance reporting is great because it is
a much easier process than handwriting it but asked if the City Clerk's
Office will be able to help people that are not computer literate.
City Clerk Flores pointed out that the proposed ordinance includes a section
which indicates that the Clerk's Office will provide technical assistance if
needed, during the process of filing electronic campaign fmance reports.
Commissioner Bass acknowledged that City Clerk Flores stated that the
Clerk's Office would offer technical assistance if needed, during the process
of filing electronic campaign finance reports, but asked if hard copies of the
report would be accepted.
City Clerk Flores stated that while no hard copies of campaign fmance
reports would be accepted based on the ordinance proposed in Agenda Item
16-A-1, the Clerk's Office will guide whoever needs assistance.
There being no additional discussion, the ordinance proposed in Agenda
Item 16-A-1 passed first reading by a 5-0 vote.
Commissioner Bass Yes
Commissioner Davis Yes
Commissioner Dominguez Yes
Vice Mayor Taylor Yes
Mayor Williams Yes
B. SECOND READING ORDINANCE(S)/PUBLIC HEARING(S):
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF
OPA-LOCKA, FLORIDA, AMENDING THE ANNUAL ADOPTED
GENERAL, PROPRIETARY AND SPECIAL REVENUE FUNDS
BUDGETS FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCING OCTOBER
1, 2021 AND ENDING SEPTEMBER 30, 2022, ADJUSTING
REVENUES AND EXPENDITURES AS REFLECTED IN EXHIBIT
"A"; PROVIDING FOR THE EXPENDITURE OF FUNDS
ESTABLISHED BY THE BUDGET; AUTHORIZING THE CITY
MANAGER TO TAKE CERTAIN ACTIONS; PROVIDING FOR
APPROPRIATION OF ALL BUDGETS AND EXPENDITURES;
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — January 12, 2022 23
PROVIDING FOR FEES CONSISTENT WITH APPROPRIATIONS
AND AMENDMENT; PROVIDING FOR INCORPORATION OF
RECITALS; PROVIDING FOR CONFLICT AND REPEALER;
PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING FOR AN
EFFECTIVE DATE (first reading/public hearing held on 12/08/2021).
Sponsored by City Manager
The above resolution was read by City Attorney Burnadette Norris -Weeks.
It was moved by Vice Mayor Taylor, seconded by Commissioner Davis to
discuss Agenda Item 16-B-1.
Mayor Williams asked City Manager Pate to introduce Agenda Item 16-B-
1.
City Manager Pate asked Budget Administrator Bob Anathan to introduce
Agenda Item 16-B-1, noting that it was a second reading item and asking
Mr. Anathan to present the changes that were made to the proposed budget
amendment between the first and second reading.
Budget Administrator Bob Anathan presented to the Commission, the
changes made to the proposed FY 22 Budget Amendment #1 between the
first and second reading.
Commissioner Dominguez acknowledged that the budget amendment
proposed in Agenda Item 16-B-1 passed first reading but asked what the
People's Transportation Plan fund totaling $414,750 was.
Budget Administrator Anathan explained that the fund is based on Miami -
Dade County's half penny sales tax. The Budget Administrator said that
work which was not done last year is being brought into the budget this
year, and the funds are being used for the community bus and roadway
improvements.
Commissioner Dominguez also asked if the line item for $42,569 marked
as miscellaneous in the proposed budget amendment, should be specified.
Budget Administrator Anathan explained that while the line item for
$42,569 is marked as miscellaneous, each of the line items is in the backup
detail.
City Manager Pate asked Budget Administrator Anathan to set up a time
with Commissioner Dominguez to go over the City's budget, so that she
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — January 12, 2022 24
can have a better understanding. The City Manager also thanked
Commissioner Dominguez for her questions.
Mayor Williams asked if the options Budget Administrator Anathan
provided for the donations received to be applied to the Special Events
Budget were for discussion.
Budget Administrator Anathan stated that he was trying to be informative
because he thinks he created a lot of confusion when explaining how
donations that were received would be applied to the Special Events Budget.
City Manager Pate suggested that properly recording donations would be
beneficial to the Commission, and said that if the Commission would agree,
they can move on.
Mayor Williams asked if each member of the Commission can decide what
option is best for the application of funds donated to the Special Events
Budget.
City Manager Pate stated that the way the Special Events Budget is
structured is not per Commissioner and whatever decision is made, will
affect everybody.
Mayor Williams opened the Public Hearing for Agenda Item 16-B-1.
There being no members of the public to address the Commission, Mayor
Williams closed the Public Hearing for Agenda Item 16-B-1.
There being no additional discussion, the ordinance proposed in Agenda
Item 16-B-1 passed by a 5-0 vote.
Commissioner Davis Yes
Commissioner Dominguez Yes
Vice Mayor Taylor Yes
Commissioner Bass Yes
Mayor Williams Yes
2. AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF
OPA-LOCKA, FLORIDA AMENDING CHAPTER 2, ARTICLE XI,
DIVISION 13 OF THE CITY'S CODE OF ORDINANCES
ENTITLED "HISTORIC ENVIRONMENTAL PRESERVATION
BOARD" TO ESTABLISH MINIMUM STANDARDS FOR
MUNICIPAL HISTORIC PRESERVATION PROGRAMS AS SET
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — January 12, 2022 25
FORTH IN THE MIAMI-DADE COUNTY HISTORIC
PRESERVATION ORDINANCE SECTION 16A- 3.1; PROVIDING
FOR BOARD ORGANIZATION AND QUALIFICATIONS; BOARD
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES; SCOPE OF REGULATIONS;
DEFINITIONS; ADMINISTRATION AND ENFORCEMENT
RULES AND REGULATIONS; SITE/DISTRICT/ZONE
DESIGNATION PROCESS AND PROCEDURES; DEMOLITION
PROCESS AND PROCEDURES; PROCEDURES FOR
MAINTENANCE OF DESIGNATED PROPERTIES;
CERTIFICATE TO DIG PROCEDURES; AN APPEALS PROCESS;
PENALTIES AND INCENTIVES; PROVIDING FOR
SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING FOR CONFLICT AND REPEALER;
RESCINDING ALL RESOLUTIONS IN CONFLICT; PROVIDING
FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE (first reading/public hearing held on
12/08/2021). Sponsored by City Manager
The above resolution was read by City Attorney Burnadette Norris -Weeks.
It was moved by Commissioner Dominguez, seconded by Vice Mayor
Taylor to discuss Agenda Item 16-B-2.
Mayor Williams asked City Manager Pate to introduce Agenda Item 16-B-
2.
City Manager Pate asked Planning & Community Development Director
Gregory Gay to introduce Agenda Item 16-B-2.
Planning & Community Development Director Gregory Gay informed the
Commission that in order for Opa-locka to continue operating its own
Historic & Environmental Preservation Board independently after being re-
established in 2018, certain ordinances needed to be modified to be
consistent with Miami -Dade County's historic preservation rules and
regulations. Mr. Gay said that a litany of items were being proposed to be
added to the ordinance, including the addition of a professional position to
the board. He reported that all the information was presented to the Historic
Preservation Board, prior to it being presented to the Commission for their
consideration.
Mayor Williams opened the Public Hearing for Agenda Item 16-B-2.
There being no members of the public to address the Commission, Mayor
Williams closed the Public Hearing for Agenda Item 16-B-2.
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — January 12, 2022 26
There being no additional discussion, the ordinance proposed in Agenda
Item 16-B-2 passed by a 5-0 vote.
Commissioner Dominguez Yes
Vice Mayor Taylor Yes
Commissioner Bass Yes
Commissioner Davis Yes
Mayor Williams Yes
3. AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF
OPA-LOCKA, FLORIDA, AUTHORIZING THE DISSOLUTION OF
A SAFE NEIGHBORHOOD IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT
(SPECIAL DISTRICT) IN ACCORDANCE WITH CHAPTER
189.071 FLORIDA STATUTES, AND REPEALING ORDINANCE
88-03 AND ORDINANCE 88-04, FOR THE ALI-BABA
NEIGHBORHOOD IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT WITHIN AN
AREA CONTAINING APPROXIMATELY 45 ACRES, BOUNDED
ON THE EAST BY N.W. 17TH AVENUE, ON THE WEST BY N.W.
22ND AVENUE, ON THE NORTH BY N.W. 151ST STREET, AND
ON THE SOUTH BY N.W. ALI BABA AVENUE; PROVIDING FOR
CONFLICT AND REPEALER; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY;
PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE (first reading/public
hearing held on 12/08/2021). Sponsored by City Manager
The above resolution was read by City Attorney Bumadette Norris -Weeks.
It was moved by Commissioner Bass, seconded by Vice Mayor Taylor to
discuss Agenda Item 16-B-3.
Mayor Williams asked City Manager Pate to introduce Agenda Item 16-B-
3.
City Manager Pate noted that Agenda Items 16-B-3, 16-B-4 and 16-B-5 are
similar items, and he asked Planning & Community Development Director
Gregory Gay to introduce all 3 items.
Planning & Community Development Director Gregory Gay stated that
Agenda Items 16-B-3, 16-B-4 and 16-B-5 are related to safe neighborhood
improvement districts that were created in 1988 to remove slum and blight
in the areas including:
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — January 12, 2022 27
The Ali Baba Avenue area formerly known as "The Triangle" from
17th Avenue to 22nd Avenue and bounded by the railroad right of
way up to 151st Street.
2. The commercial and industrial area, bounded by 17th Avenue to
the east, 22nd avenue to the west, 135th Street to the south and
139th Street to the north.
3. The Nile Gardens area just below 135th Street west of 27th Avenue
Mr. Gay explained that since these areas were created, the Commission has
not moved forward to establish the boards or a budget to fund the
improvements. He shared that the operational audit determined that the safe
neighborhood districts did not serve a purpose because they had not been
activated in their proper format, and it was recommended that the districts
be dissolved, relieving the City of the small financial burden of the $175
annual administrative fee paid per district to the Florida Depattinent of
Economic Opportunity. Mr. Gay pointed out that one of the districts is
encompassed with the Community Redevelopment Agency when it was
created, which is creating a much more sustainable and safe neighborhood
including the removal of slum and blight, but he said that the other two areas
have no programming in place at this time. He concluded by informing the
Commission that the Staff from his Department recommends the approval
of the dissolution.
Mayor Williams opened the Public Hearing for Agenda Item 16-B-3.
There being no members of the public to address the Commission, Mayor
Williams closed the Public Hearing for Agenda Item 16-B-3.
Commissioner Davis informed his colleagues on the Commission that he
spoke with Planning & Community Development Director Gregory Gay
about his concerns regarding the safety of the community's neighborhoods,
in acknowledgement that the intent behind the designation of the safe
neighborhood districts was to make the community safer and more livable.
The Commissioner noted that the area known as the Triangle or Magnolia
North will still have help and benefit from the services provided through the
Community Redevelopment Agency because it falls within its boundaries.
He expressed concern about the Nile Gardens neighborhood, which
includes communities like Glorieta Gardens and some of the City's largest
multi -family complexes which have had episodes of crime, violence and
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — January 12, 2022 28
issues with safety over the years. Commissioner Davis recognized that the
City was not getting much out of the safe neighborhood district designation
from a cost benefit perspective but asserted that he does not want to lose the
spirit of the intent to make certain segments of the community safer and he
asked that research be done to see if there are any other options to ensure
the safety of those areas.
There being no additional discussion, the ordinance proposed in Agenda
Item 16-B-3 passed by a 5-0 vote.
Vice Mayor Taylor Yes
Commissioner Bass Yes
Commissioner Davis Yes
Commissioner Dominguez Yes
Mayor Williams Yes
4. AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF
OPA-LOCKA, FLORIDA, AUTHORIZING THE DISSOLUTION OF
A SAFE NEIGHBORHOOD IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT
(SPECIAL DISTRICT) IN ACCORDANCE WITH CHAPTER
189.071 FLORIDA STATUTES, AND REPEALING ORDINANCE
88-03 AND ORDINANCE 88-11, FOR THE EAST -WEST SAFE
NEIGHBORHOOD DISTRICT WITHIN AN AREA CONTAINING
APPROXIMATELY 100 ACRES, BOUNDED ON THE EAST BY
N.W. 17TH AVENUE, ON THE WEST BY N.W. 22ND AVENUE, ON
THE NORTH BY N.W. 141ST STREET, AND ON THE SOUTH BY
N.W. 135TH STREET; PROVIDING FOR CONFLICT AND
REPEALER; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING
FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE (first reading/public hearing held on
12/08/2021). Sponsored by City Manager
The above resolution was read by City Attorney Burnadette Norris -Weeks.
It was moved by Commissioner Bass, seconded by Commissioner
Dominguez to discuss Agenda Item 16-B-4.
Mayor Williams asked City Manager Pate to introduce Agenda Item 16-B-
4.
City Manager Pate asked Planning & Community Development Director
Gregory Gay to introduce Agenda Item 16-B-4.
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — January 12, 2022 29
Planning & Community Development Director Gregory Gay stated that the
ordinance included in Agenda Item 16-B-4 proposes the dissolution of one
of the safe neighborhood improvement districts that has not been active, has
had no budgetary funds expended and has had no board set up to operate.
Mr. Gay reported that the Staff from his Department recommends
dissolution.
Mayor Williams opened the Public Hearing for Agenda Item 16-B-4.
There being no members of the public to address the Commission, Mayor
Williams closed the Public Hearing for Agenda Item 16-B-4.
Commissioner Bass stated that she felt like she needed to say that the
members of the Commission go into agenda briefings and are not inept. The
Commissioner asserted that the Commission is aware of what's going on
and when they're not asking questions, it doesn't mean that they don't
know, it means that they do know.
There being no additional discussion, the ordinance proposed in Agenda
Item 16-B-4 passed by a 5-0 vote.
Commissioner Bass Yes
Commissioner Davis Yes
Commissioner Dominguez Yes
Vice Mayor Taylor Yes
Mayor Williams Yes
5. AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF
OPA-LOCKA, FLORIDA, AUTHORIZING THE DISSOLUTION OF
A SAFE NEIGHBORHOOD IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT
(SPECIAL DISTRICT) IN ACCORDANCE WITH CHAPTER
189.071 FLORIDA STATUTES, AND REPEALING ORDINANCE
88-03 AND ORDINANCE 88-05, FOR THE NILE GARDENS
NEIGHBORHOOD IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT WITHIN AN
AREA CONTAINING APPROXIMATELY 320 ACRES, BOUNDED
ON THE EAST BY N.W. 27T11 AVENUE, ON THE WEST BY
ALEXANDRIA DRIVE, ON THE NORTH BY N.W. 135TH STREET,
AND ON THE SOUTH BY N.W. 128TH STREET; PROVIDING FOR
CONFLICT AND REPEALER; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY;
PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE (first reading/public
hearing held on 12/08/2021). Sponsored by City Manager
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — January 12, 2022 30
The above resolution was read by City Attorney Burnadette Norris -Weeks.
It was moved by Commissioner Bass, seconded by Vice Mayor Taylor to
discuss Agenda Item 16-B-5.
Mayor Williams asked City Manager Pate to introduce Agenda Item 16-B-
5.
City Manager Pate stated that Planning & Community Development
Director Gregory Gay has already explained Agenda Items 16-B-3, 16-B-4
and 16-B-5, and he asked for a vote unless the Commission had any
questions.
Mayor Williams opened the Public Hearing for Agenda Item 16-B-5.
There being no members of the public to address the Commission, Mayor
Williams closed the Public Hearing for Agenda Item 16-B-5.
There being no discussion, the ordinance proposed in Agenda Item 16-B-5
passed by a 4-0 vote.
Commissioner Davis Yes
Commissioner Dominguez Yes
Vice Mayor Taylor Yes
Commissioner Bass Not Present
Mayor Williams Yes
6. AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF
OPA-LOCKA, FLORIDA, AMENDING ORDINANCE 15-31 LAND
DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS TO INCLUDE THE MOORISH
REVIVAL STYLE DESIGN HANDBOOK; PROVIDING FOR
DEFINITIONS, PERMIT AND SEVERABILITY, CODIFICATION
AND AN EFFECTIVE DATE (first reading/public hearing held on
12/08/2021). Sponsored by City Manager
The above resolution was read by City Attorney Burnadette Norris -Weeks.
It was moved by Vice Mayor Taylor, seconded by Commissioner
Dominguez to discuss Agenda Item 16-B-6.
Mayor Williams asked City Manager Pate to introduce Agenda Item 16-B-
6.
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — January 12, 2022 31
City Manager Pate asked Planning & Community Development Director
Gregory Gay to introduce Agenda Item 16-B-6.
Planning & Community Development Director Gregory Gay informed the
Commission that the ordinance proposed by Agenda Item 16-B-6 would
create the Moorish revival style design handbook to address some things
that did not occur when the City's zoning code was approved in 2015. Mr.
Gay said that the zoning code referenced a design guideline to promote
Moorish style architecture for new developments, as well as the
preservation of existing historic properties within Opa-locka. He reported
that the handbook was presented before the Historic Preservation Board as
well as the Planning & Zoning Board and had the Staff from his Department
recommend approval.
Mayor Williams opened the Public Hearing for Agenda Item 16-B-6.
There being no members of the public to address the Commission, Mayor
Williams closed the Public Hearing for Agenda Item 16-B-6.
There being no additional discussion, the ordinance proposed in Agenda
Item 16-B-6 passed by a 5-0 vote.
Commissioner Dominguez Yes
Vice Mayor Taylor Yes
Commissioner Bass Yes
Commissioner Davis Yes
Mayor Williams Yes
7. AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF
OPA-LOCKA, FLORIDA, AMENDING ORDINANCE 15-31 LAND
DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS TO INCLUDE ARTICLE IV,
SECTION 22-101, CREATING THE HISTORIC DOWNTOWN
OPA-LOCKA DISTRICT PROVIDING FOR DEFINITIONS,
PROVIDING FOR PERMITTED AND PROHIBITED USES;
PROVIDING FOR DEVELOPMENT CRITERIA; PROVIDING FOR
SPECIAL PERMIT REQUIREMENTS; PROVIDING FOR
CODIFICATION; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY AND
PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE (first reading/public hearing
held on 12/08/2021). Sponsored by City Manager
The above resolution was read by City Attorney Burnadette Norris -Weeks.
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — January 12, 2022 32
It was moved by Vice Mayor Taylor, seconded by Commissioner Bass to
discuss Agenda Item 16-B-7.
Mayor Williams asked City Manager Pate to introduce Agenda Item 16-B-
7.
City Manager Pate asked Planning & Community Development Director
Gregory Gay to introduce Agenda Item 16-B-7.
Planning & Community Development Director Gregory Gay informed the
Commission that the ordinance proposed in Agenda Item 16-B-7 would
create a stand-alone historic downtown zoning district. Mr. Gay said that
there are currently 3 or 4 zoning categories within the downtown area along
with a downtown overlay which encompasses a broad area. He also said
that with the development of the downtown master plan through an effort
led by the Interim Manager of the Community Redevelopment Agency
Corion DeLaine, it was recommended to create an independent downtown
zoning district to make sure that if zoning modifications occurred in other
areas of the City that had the same zoning categories within the downtown
area, that it would not have an impact on the development of the City's
downtown and likewise that whatever modifications are made within the
downtown area would not have an impact on other areas of the City. Mr.
Gay reported that approval was recommended by the Planning & Zoning
Board as well as the Staff from his Department.
Mayor Williams opened the Public Hearing for Agenda Item 16-B-7.
There being no members of the public to address the Commission, Mayor
Williams closed the Public Hearing for Agenda Item 16-B-7.
There being no discussion, the ordinance proposed in Agenda Item 16-B-7
passed by a 5-0 vote.
Vice Mayor Taylor Yes
Commissioner Bass Yes
Commissioner Davis Yes
Commissioner Dominguez Yes
Mayor Williams Yes
8. AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF
OPA-LOCKA, FLORIDA, AMENDING ORDINANCE 15-31 LAND
DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS TO INCLUDE ARTICLE IV,
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — January 12, 2022 33
SECTION 22-102, CREATING THE OPA-LOCKA INNOVATION
DISTRICT, PROVIDING FOR DEFINITIONS, PROVIDING FOR
PERMITTED AND PROHIBITED USES, PROVIDING FOR
DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS AND INCENTIVES;
PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING FOR
CODIFICATION; AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE (first
reading/public hearing held on 12/08/2021). Sponsored by City Manager
The above resolution was read by City Attorney Burnadette Norris -Weeks.
It was moved by Vice Mayor Taylor, seconded by Commissioner Davis to
discuss Agenda Item 16-B-8.
Mayor Williams asked City Manager Pate to introduce Agenda Item 16-B-
8.
City Manager Pate asked Interim Community Redevelopment Agency
Manager & City Planner Corion DeLaine to introduce Agenda Item 16-B-
8.
Interim Community Redevelopment Agency Manager & City Planner
Corion DeLaine informed the Commission that the ordinance proposed in
Agenda Item 16-B-8 would create an innovation district which would
improve and upgrade an area of the City for higher and better use. Mr.
DeLaine said that it is an opportunity to look at the industrial areas like those
in Opa-locka that are transitioning to bring in more innovative and tech jobs,
including neighboring communities like Wynwood in Miami and Flagler
Village in Fort Lauderdale. He said that those communities were developed
by developers and the cities came on the back end, but this is an opportunity
for the City to figure out what it would like to see for its community moving
forward. Mr. DeLaine also said that the legislation was put together to
provide opportunities for incentives to bring in new businesses, in addition
to opportunities for training resources. He concluded by stating that Staff
has worked diligently over the past 2 years establishing a lot of relationships
and partnerships, which he said is going to bring a lot of new development,
investments and resources to the community that it hasn't had through trade,
logistics and e -commerce.
Mayor Williams opened the Public Hearing for Agenda Item 16-B-8.
There being no members of the public to address the Commission, Mayor
Williams closed the Public Hearing for Agenda Item 16-B-8.
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — January 12, 2022 34
Vice Mayor Taylor expressed appreciation for the hard work that Mr.
DeLaine is doing, and he added that he thinks the proposed creation of the
innovation district is a great idea that will help push Opa-locka into the 21st
century.
Mayor Williams thanked Mr. DeLaine for his long-term vision, asserting
that the City is going to get there with his help, despite what others may say.
There being no additional discussion, the ordinance proposed in Agenda
Item 16-B-8 passed by a 5-0 vote.
Commissioner Bass Yes
Commissioner Davis Yes
Commissioner Dominguez Yes
Vice Mayor Taylor Yes
Mayor Williams Yes
C. RESOLUTION(S)/PUBLIC HEARING:
There were none.
17. CITY MANAGER'S REPORT:
City Manager Pate wished everybody a Happy New Year. The City Manager also thanked
Interim Community Redevelopment Agency Manager & City Planner Corion DeLaine for
all the hard work he's been doing, sharing that they are in constant communication daily
ensuring that everything is moving forward based on the City's vision. The City Manager
said that he looks forward to the Community Redevelopment Agency recruiting for an
executive director to run the agency permanently and take those responsibilities out of his
hands as he runs the City. In addition to the written bi-weekly report that was submitted
to the City Commission, Mr. Pate stated that after working on it for 2 years, the lighting on
the field at Ingram Park is 100% complete and he is working on getting grants to improve
the park so that residents can enjoy it the way it's designed to be used. He also stated that
legislation will be presented to the Commission to approve a contract with the Public
Works Department and the Capital Improvement Projects Depaitinent, to conduct an
evaluation of all roadways, street signs and sidewalks to determine the areas of most
concern. Mr. Pate added that legislation is forthcoming to address flooding on NW 133rd
Street in addition to legislation to temporarily resolve the road conditions on NW 147th
Street. Thanking Public Works Director Airia Austin and the City's engineers for their
constant work on pump stations 4 and 8, the City Manager reported that they are out of
moratorium, which he said allows for new development in those areas. He also shared that
the City applied for a grant to plant 158 trees on the median at Perviz Avenue. City
Manager Pate stated that because of the highly contagious COVID-19 Omicron variant, the
City has increased safety measures for Staff, including routing daily cleaning of all
common areas, sanitizing of all City facilities on a weekly basis, and mask requirements
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — January 12, 2022 35
for all employees and visitors. He said that a free COVID-19 vaccine pop-up event was
being sponsored by Miami -Dade County on January 19th from 10 AM until 6 PM at
Sherbondy Village. Mr. Pate concluded by informing the Commission that tower lights
will be used to make sure residents feel safe, until the Public Works Department gets a
quote to address the major lighting issues in the City.
Commissioner Davis asked for clarification on the pop-up COVID-19 vaccination site.
City Manager Pate stated that the pop-up vaccination site will offer all vaccinations for
COVID-19, including the first injection, second injection and the booster shot.
Mayor Williams asked if testing for COVID-19 will be brought back to Sherbondy Village,
because she said that she gets a lot of questions about testing.
City Manager Pate stated that he has been working diligently with Miami -Dade County to
address the pandemic, and he said that the priority is to get people vaccinated. The City
Manager pointed out that there are a lot of testing sites within Miami -Dade County that are
close to Opa-locka. He also informed the Commission that he is in the process of
purchasing thousands of home kits for residents to self -test, through a co-op with another
community that has done a request for proposals for an amount greater than they need. Mr.
Pate said that upon receiving the test kits, they will be provided to residents at various sites
with the Parks & Recreation Department assisting.
18. OFFICIAL BOARD REPORTS:
There were none.
19. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS:
Commissioner Dominguez proposed that the City bring back the paint program, which she
said can bring beautification to the neighborhoods of Opa-locka, noting that there are a lot
of houses that are not looking very nice and that the program would be helpful for the
residents.
Commissioner Davis offered to co-sponsor Commissioner Dominguez's proposed future
agenda item to bring back the paint program because he thinks it is a great idea. The
Commissioner recalled that he advocated for a similar program through leftover
Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act funds. In consideration of the pledge
to allocate many of the American Rescue Plan Act funds to social initiatives and the
Commissioner's advocacy for home beautification, he pointed out that the paint program
would be a similar initiative and suggested that the efforts be merged.
City Manager Pate stated that he has no problem assisting the Commissioners with the
proposed paint program. The City Manager said that the appropriate resolution will be
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — January 12, 2022 36
drafted and brought before the Commission for approval of the specific dollar amount to
come out of the American Rescue Plan Act funds for the proposed program.
There being no additional discussion, the proposed future agenda item proposed by
Commissioner Dominguez was found favorable by a 5-0 vote.
Commissioner Davis Yes
Commissioner Dominguez Yes
Vice Mayor Taylor Yes
Commissioner Bass Yes
Mayor Williams Yes
20. MAYOR/COMMISSION REPORTS:
Commissioner Bass stated that she is thankful for the work on Opa-locka' s streets but said
that it would have been really nice if the school she has worked at for 22 years, was notified
that the work was going to start because it was a huge inconvenience for the dismissal of
the students. The Commissioner also expressed her disappointment with several things
that have occurred in the City throughout the year, including not having representation
from the City Manager's Office at fires in Opa-locka or at the State Attorney's press
conference, asserting that it is an awful embarrassment and is not a good look for the City.
Commissioner Bass said that she is frustrated but that she is vested in the City because she
is Opa-locka. Also expressing her discomfort with the City Manager, Commissioner Bass
said she is close to putting an exit on the floor and she doesn't really care what her
counterparts feel about it because she is responsible for almost 17,000 residents in Opa-
locka. The Commissioner said that when she has residents coming to her, telling her that
it is the dais' fault that the City is where it's at, it's something to be investigated.
Acknowledging that she sees growth in the City like roads being paved, the Commissioner
asserted that there's more to be done and stressed that honesty and transparency need to be
the key words in the City.
Vice Mayor Taylor invited his colleagues to the Martin Luther King & 011ie B. Kelley
Peace Day Walk this Saturday, which he said will begin with a walk from the municipal
complex to Sherbondy Village where there will be a brunch and the honorable Miami -Dade
County School Board Member Dorothy Bendross-Mindingall will be the keynote speaker.
The Vice Mayor said that after, there will be a field day and kickball game and he invited
everybody to come out. He also shared that free cardio classes are being offered to
residents on Mondays and Wednesdays from 6 - 7 PM at Sherbondy Village, to push for a
healthier community.
Mayor Williams gave a shout out to Vice Mayor Taylor for spearheading the MLK Walk
and the cardio classes. The Mayor said she is sure they will all be there to support because
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — January 12, 2022 37
Martin Luther King's birthday is a national holiday and we must ensure that his dream
continues to be alive, asking whether we are socially distancing from the dream. She also
announced that the new date for the State of the City will be on January 28th at 6 PM. The
Mayor concluded by noting that they are constantly getting bombarded by citizens, and she
asked everybody to be on the lookout for information about a town hall event where
everyone can give advice and provide input on what projects and programs, they want the
Commission to move forward.
21. OFFICIAL BOARD APPOINTMENTS:
City Clerk Flores informed the Commission that Ms. Dottie Johnson had applied to serve
on the Planning & Zoning Board.
It was moved by Commissioner Davis, seconded by Vice Mayor Taylor to appoint Dottie
Johnson to the Planning & Zoning Board.
There being no discussion, the appointment was approved by a 5-0 vote.
Commissioner Dominguez Yes
Vice Mayor Taylor Yes
Commissioner Bass Yes
Commissioner Davis Yes
Mayor Williams Yes
Commissioner Dominguez appointed Ms. Christina Banks to the Charter Review Board.
Mayor Williams noted that the Charter Review Board was stalled because of the 2 advisory
positions and expressed that she is getting a little nervous because she is looking at the
calendar. The Mayor suggested that they reach out to former Miami -Dade County
Commissioner Katy Sorenson to see if she would like to be a part of the board and if she
had a second person.
Vice Mayor Taylor asked that the students who had been reached out to as potential
advisory board members on the Charter Review Board, be given until the next Commission
meeting because they had already been reached out to.
Mayor Williams stated that the Commission should reconsider the appointments to the
advisory positions on the Charter Review Board to have the strength and knowledge that
is needed, which she said she knows former County Commissioner Sorenson would bring
to the table.
22. ADJOURNMENT:
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — January 12, 2022 38
Vice Mayor Taylor congratulated Commissioner Dominguez, stating that it's a pleasure to
have her up on the dais and that he looks forward to working with her.
There being no further business to come before the City Commission, it was moved by
Vice Mayor Taylor, seconded by Commissioner Bass to adjourn the meeting at 10:04 p
Vonica J. Wi
Mayor
Attest:
Jo 1 a Flores, CMC
Ci Clerk
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — January 12, 2022 39