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HomeMy Public PortalAbout07-July 13, 2022 RCMCITY OF OPA-LOCKA "The Great City" CLERK'S ACTION SUMMARY MINUTES REGULAR COMMISSION MEETING July 13, 2022 7:00 P.M. 1. CALL TO ORDER: Mayor Williams called the meeting to order at 7:13 p.m. on Wednesday, July 13, 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 Audrey Dominguez, Vice Mayor John H. Taylor Jr., and Mayor Veronica J. Williams. Commissioner Chris Davis arrived at 7:17 p.m. Also, in attendance were: Interim City Manager Darvin Williams, City Attorney Burnadette Norris -Weeks, Assistant City Attorney Candice Cobb and Deputy City Clerk Chris Wills. 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: Florida Main Street Designation Interim Community Redevelopment Agency Manager Corion DeLaine presented the Commission with a plaque from the State of Florida through the Department of State, announcing that Opa-locka has been awarded the designation for a Main Street. He also introduced Katherine Beck, the Main Street Coordinator for the State of Florida. Ms. Beck thanked the Commission for their support of the Main Street program and shared that she had the opportunity to do a reconnaissance visit at the end of April, during which she was very impressed with the tremendous assets and further recognized the steps that had been taken over the past 2 years that will help the City in revitalization. She also informed the Commission that she will be visiting Opa-locka in September, joined by other members of Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — July 13, 2022 1 her team from the Bureau of Historic Preservation and National Main Street, to complete a community assessment to come up with a strategy that they think will work for Opa- locka. Commissioner Bass offered her thanks. Mayor Williams thanked Ms. Katherine Beck and stated that the Commission is honored to have the Main Street designation bestowed upon Opa-locka. The Mayor also thanked Interim Community Redevelopment Agency Manager Corion DeLaine and the entire Community Redevelopment Agency Board for the work they did to have the Main Street designation bestowed upon Opa-locka. Presentation by City of Opa-locka Human Resources Department Honoring Class of 2022 Graduates Human Resource Department Director Kierra Ward presented awards honoring the Class of 2022 Graduates. Mayor Williams pointed out that the Graduates are our future, encouraging them to be successful in whatever they do, and urging them to stay right here in the great City of Opa- locka. 6. APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA AND PULL LIST (deferrals and deletions): Commissioner Dominguez pulled Consent Agenda Items 13-3 and 13-4. Mayor Williams pulled Consent Agenda Items 13-2, 13-5 and 13-6. It was moved by Commissioner Bass, seconded by Vice Mayor Taylor to approve the Consent Agenda (agenda item 13-1). 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 7. APPROVAL OF AGENDA: Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — July 13, 2022 2 Mayor Williams proposed that the Agenda be amended to move Agenda Item 18 - Official Board Reports, to the beginning of the Agenda. It was moved by Commissioner Bass, seconded by Commissioner Davis, to amend the Agenda. There being no discussion, the motion to amend the Agenda passed by a 5-0 vote. Commissioner Dominguez Yes Vice Mayor Taylor Yes Commissioner Bass Yes Commissioner Davis Yes Mayor Williams Yes It was moved by Vice Mayor Taylor, seconded by Commissioner Bass, to approve the Agenda. There being no discussion, the motion to approve the Agenda passed by a 5-0 vote. Vice Mayor Taylor Yes Commissioner Bass Yes Commissioner Davis Yes Commissioner Dominguez Yes Mayor Williams Yes 8. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — May 11, 2022 It was moved by Vice Mayor Taylor, seconded by Commissioner Dominguez to approve the minutes from the Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — May 11, 2022. There being no discussion, the motion to approve the minutes passed by a 5-0 vote. Commissioner Bass Yes Commissioner Davis Yes Commissioner Dominguez Yes Vice Mayor Taylor Yes Mayor Williams Yes Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — June 8, 2022 Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — July 13, 2022 3 It was moved by Vice Mayor Taylor, seconded by Commissioner Bass to approve the minutes from the Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — June 8, 2022. There being no discussion, the motion to approve the minutes passed by a 5-0 vote. Commissioner Davis Yes Commissioner Dominguez Yes Vice Mayor Taylor Yes Commissioner Bass Yes Mayor Williams Yes 9. DISTRICT ONE / DISTRICT TWO - COUNTY COMMISSIONER REPORT: There was none. 10. PUBLIC PRESENTATIONS: There were none. Based on the amendment of the Agenda approved by the Commission, Mayor Williams invited the Charter Review Board to present their Board Report to the Commission. Charter Review Board Chair Jannie Russell informed the Commission that the rest of the Board Members could not make it to the meeting. Chair Russell stated that the Board wanted to thank the Commission for appointing them to the Board, stating that they have worked diligently to go over the City's Charter and come up with some recommendations. She also said that not all of the items that they looked at were ready to be presented because issues like the form of government and the establishment of Commission seats or districts would take a lot more time, adding that the Board felt the 2 items they are recommending are very important to the Community. Ms. Russell added that if they as Citizens of Opa- locka don't have faith in the Commission, they can't expect others to. Acknowledging that the compensation for the Commission has been and probably will continue to be a touchy subject, the Board Chair said that the majority of the Board by a vote of 4-1, believes that it warrants them taking it before the voters. She assured the Commission that the Charter Review Board didn't just do all of the work with the help of the City Clerk's Office, the City Attorney's Office and the City Manager's Office, to just give it to the voters, but rather are committed to encouraging voters to look at the referendum and join them in making it a reality. Board Chair Russell stated that a lot has been said about the reasons why the Commission does not receive compensation, but she asserted that it's just not true that the State of Florida came in and removed the Commission's compensation. Expressing her hope that the Commission will agree with the Charter Review Board to put the referendums on the November ballot. Ms. Russell encouraged Citizens to get involved when they have Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — July 13, 2022 4 the Charter Review Board Forums and shared that she has learned a lot. She went on to state that the Board made their recommendation not just for the Commission that sits there now, but for the Commissions that are to come. Board Chair Russell offered to answer any questions the Commission had. Commissioner Davis noted that the 2 proposed Charter amendments proposed by the Charter Review Board were almost identical except for one including a monthly stipend and asked if the idea the Board had was for the City Commission to approve one or consider both. Charter Review Board Chair Russell stated that the consensus of the Board was to send both of the proposed Charter amendments to the Voters because they didn't have the majority in agreement when it came to the car stipend. The Board Chair said that the car stipend was also a stickler during the time that the Charter Review Board dedicated to Citizens Input. Commissioner Davis stated his understanding that the idea the Charter Review Board had was to put both options on the table, noting that the Commission can debate it and at a later date, place it on the ballot for consideration by the citizens of the Community. Charter Review Board Chair Russell confirmed that Commissioner Davis' understanding was correct. Commissioner Davis thanked Charter Review Board Chair Russell. Commissioner Bass thanked the Members of the Charter Review Board for the hours of work they put in, acknowledging that it was not easy, but stating that they did well. Charter Review Board Chair Russell informed the Commission that the Board met twice a month, and sometimes even 3 times a month. Mayor Williams stated that she learned a lot by watching the Charter Review Board Meetings. The Mayor offered her kudos to Board Chair Russell for directing the Board and making everything as smooth as possible. She acknowledged that the Board asked intentional questions, copious notes were written, and the Clerk's Office worked hard for the Board Members. Mayor Williams expressed the Commission's gratitude for the service of the Charter Review Board Members. Charter Review Board Chair Russell stated that she had not been as visible as she would like to be for the last few weeks because her Mom, who comes to Opa-locka religiously, was on her way home in the Grove and got in a very bad accident about 3 weeks ago. The Board Chair thanked those who were praying for her Mom as well as those who called, sharing that she would tell her every time somebody called to check on her. She shared Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — July 13, 2022 5 the good news that her Mom is home now. Charter Review Board Chair Russell concluded by asking if there were any other questions from the City Commission. Mayor Williams stated that she believed the City Commission was good with the information that Charter Review Board Chair Russell provided them. 11. CITIZENS' FORUM: (Opportunity for discussion of any concerns — please limit to 3 minutes) Deputy Clerk Chris Wills announced the protocol for public participation at City Commission meetings. Mayor Williams opened the Citizens' Forum. Ms. Tangelar Parker who resides at 1266 Fisherman Street yielded her 3 minutes to her husband. Mr. Wilbert Parker who resides at 1266 Fisherman Street expressed concerns over an illegal dumping warning violation from Miami -Dade County which says that if it is not picked up by Tuesday, July 19th, they will be fined. Mr. Parker asserted that he and his wife do not condone illegal dumping and he doesn't think they should be punished for something that was done overnight which they did not do. He explained that the illegal dumping occurred in the alleyway, which he pointed out is City property and not their personal property. Mr. Parker concluded by pointing out that there are many allies in Opa- locka where stuff has been dumped, and that some of the Members of the Commission live near alleys, so he urged them to call Miami -Dade County because they may be next. Mr. Ario Lundy who resides at 14911 Duval Street urged the Commission to give the Police the opportunity to negotiate their contract, noting that the Police has not had a contract since 2014, adding that they should get it over with because everybody wants to have a job that is secure. Mr. Lundy pointed out that the Police goes out every day and risks their lives, especially in the area where he is at, and he concluded by stressing that a deal should be negotiated that makes sense for the Commission and the Police. Mr. Michael Braverman introduced himself as special labor counsel for the South Florida Police Benevolent Association and shared that he started with the Police Benevolent Association in 1986 with Opa-locka being the first City he ever worked for in the Police Benevolent Association. Mr. Braverman said he is proud to represent the men and women of the Opa-locka Police Department and added that he doesn't have enough time to tell the Commission of the struggles they have been facing but shared some of the issues they have been dealing with. He also said that Mr. Lundy is right, pointing out that the dates on the current collective bargaining agreement is from 2012 to 2014. Reminding the Commission Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — July 13, 2022 6 that the men and women he represents, have stood beside them and the Citizens of the City throughout all of the trials and tribulations that Opa-locka has gone through, Mr. Braverman said that the City Manager and the Police Benevolent Association are ready to seal the deal. He asked that the Commission be tenacious, stick to its guns, go forward to get a good agreement and authorize the City Manager to get on with the business of concluding the collective bargaining agreement. Mr. Braverman informed the Commission that the July 6th meeting had to be postponed, but he assured them that he and General Counsel Andrew Axelrad are ready to do the business of the Citizens, the City and the Police Benevolent Association. He went on to share that Shirlyon McWhorter, one of the City Attorney's associates, used to be a Police Benevolent Association attorney, has been involved in collective bargaining in the past and has been at the meetings. Mr. Braverman concluded by assuring the Commission that they are there to work together and do whatever they can to get it done. Mr. Alex Van Mecl who resides at 806 Jann Avenue stated that he has taken acute interest in the recent developments he has read about in the Miami Herald concerning the site of the Opa-locka Hialeah Flea Market, which he said is a source of much pride, joy and culture for Opa-locka and the surrounding region. Mr. Van Mecl shared his opinions on the proposal from Link Logistics from an urban planning perspective, while considering the vitality of the community. He offered assurances that he is all for progress and profit, while adding that this is a historic opportunity to evaluate the use of a critical piece of land that may not come to the City in many years. Mr. Van Mecl pointed out that across the street, there are plenty of warehouses that he said are probably used for similar purposes, further stating that they're great and flashy, but he does not believe they serve the needs of the community in Opa-locka or the region. He said that he hopes there are conversations happening for next week's Planning & Zoning Appeals Board about including housing with the commercial logistics vision. Mr. Van Mecl suggested that what's being proposed be internally evaluated to determine if it is the best use and service for the future of the City because he said that he would love to go to a restaurant or a community space filled with amenities, right at the entrance of one of the City's thorough ways. He also said that when looking at the rendering and the Link Logistics portfolio in South Florida specifically, Mr. Van Mecl said that it's nothing new and that it looks like everything else that they already had. Lamenting that the rendering being presented doesn't at all compliment the community's Moorish aesthetic, he concluded by quoting the Whitney Houston and Mariah Carey duet "When You Believe" from the movie "The Prince of Egypt", stating that he truly believes they can encourage the developer and owner to serve the needs of the community. There being no additional members of the public to address the Commission, Mayor Williams closed the Citizen's Forum. Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — July 13, 2022 7 12. ACTION ITEMS (items from consent agenda pull list): 1. [13-2] A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF OPA-LOCKA, FLORIDA, APPROVING ISSUANCE OF A REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS ("RFP") FOR THE PROVISION OF VACANT/ABANDONED/FORECLOSED PROPERTY MANAGEMENT SERVICES FOR THE CITY; PROVIDING FOR INCORPORATION OF RECITALS; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. Sponsored by City Manager The above resolution was read into the record by Assistant City Attorney Candice Cobb. It was moved by Commissioner Davis, seconded by Vice Mayor Taylor to discuss Agenda Item 12-1. Mayor Williams asked Interim City Manager Williams to introduce Agenda Item 12-1. Interim City Manager Williams asked Planning and Community Development Department Director Gregory Gay to introduce Agenda Item 12-1. Planning and Community Development Department Director Gregory Gay informed the Commission that the request for proposals process that was being presented before them had been requested about 2 to 3 years ago by a Member of the Commission, to look at the registration process for the City's vacant properties. Mr. Gay said that over the past 8 years since he began serving the City, there have been a number of properties that have fallen into hard times and have become somewhat derelict, falling into disrepair. He further explained that the request for proposals is to seek out a company that will look into having the properties properly registered on an annual basis and see what opportunities may be out there to address the vacant properties with fines, liens, foreclosure and possibly have them received by the City to move them forward into a better condition. Mr. Gay said that his Staff had initially looked at doing a piggyback, but their research determined that there were other companies out there and needed to go to a request for proposals process to move the item forward. Mayor Williams asked how long the Planning and Community Development Department had been working with the company that they were considering signing a piggyback contract with. Planning and Community Development Department Director Gregory Gay informed the Commission that his Staff initially started their communication in late 2019 with the company that they were considering signing a piggyback contract with but lost a year with the company during the pandemic, picking it up again in early 2021. Mr. Gay went on to Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — July 13, 2022 8 say that his Department was looking at the contracts the company had already secured with several other municipalities in Miami -Dade and Broward Counties but were made aware through research that other companies were doing similar work through Miami -Dade and Broward Counties. He explained that because there are multiple companies, it should be taken through the request for proposals process. Mayor Williams shared her understanding of what Planning and Community Development Department Director Gregory Gay said, stating that for about 3 years since 2019, his Department was having conversations with a company that was clearly vetted by several other cities. The Mayor then said that Mr. Gay had stated that he was told about the other companies so that he would put it out as a request for proposals, and she asked who told them about the other companies. Planning and Community Development Department Director Gregory Gay stated that his Department's Staff identified some companies through their research in addition to company information being provided by Members of the Commission. Mayor Williams asked Planning and Community Development Department Director Gregory Gay if the City Attorney was part of the meetings where the other companies were discussed. Planning and Community Development Department Director Gregory Gay stated that the City Attorney was involved in the meetings. Mayor Williams asked the City Attorney what occurred in those meetings. City Attorney Norris -Weeks recalled 2 meetings which she was involved with, during which she said that she along with City Staff from the Code Enforcement Department, Planning and Community Development Department and the City Manager's Office met with the vendor. The Attorney informed the Commission that they went through the information they had to share including the number of properties that were in foreclosure, as well as ordinances from other municipalities along with the contracts they had with those cities. She said that City Staff researched those ordinances and talked through them in the meetings, adding that there may have been other meetings that they had with Staff Members. Mayor Williams shared her understanding that the Planning and Community Development Department along with the City Attorney's Office was already in the process of vetting the company throughout 2019, 2022 and 2021. She also said that she understood that they've already done work in the form of research, but that now that they're ready to move forward, they are pivoting on 3 years worth of work done by the Planning and Community Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — July 13, 2022 9 Development Department along with the City Attorney, because research or others told them about other companies. Planning and Community Development Department Director Gregory Gay said that for the most part, Mayor Williams statement was very much accurate but said that it needed to be considered that City Staff also did research on other companies there were brought to their attention. Mr. Gay also said that to be fair and transparent because his Department's Staff did not know what type of services the other companies may bring in addition to what the City was seeking, they felt it needed to go through the request for proposals process. Mayor Williams asserted that she is all for the request for proposals process but reiterated her concerns that all that time was put into a company that already worked with several cities in Miami -Dade County and were vetted. The Mayor lamented that they had meetings and then pivoted because they were told there were other companies. She concluded by acknowledging that the Commission has been talking about this for 2 years since she began serving on the Dais, and said that the proposal to initiate the request for proposals process after a company had already started the work, gives her pause. Planning and Community Development Department Director Gregory Gay informed the Commission that the company presented samples of the process they would go through for the registration process along with the information they would provide, based on what they had access to through the Miami -Dade County Property Appraiser and Miami -Dade County Tax Collector, which he pointed out is accessible to all companies. Mr. Gay went on to state that a working relationship had not been established because there was no contract with them. Mayor Williams stated her understanding that at one of the meetings, the company already presented a semi -comprehensive list of properties that could possibly be foreclosed on and asked if that happened. Planning and Community Development Department Director Gregory Gay stated that he did not recall a list just for the City of Opa-locka being provided but did recall the company showing the Staff from his Department how they access information through the internet services that are available, in addition to what type of information they could provide. Mayor Williams stated that she has questions and reiterated her understanding that a City Department along with the City Attorney's Office started a piggyback process with a company that had already been vetted by multiple cities in Miami -Dade County, and she reiterated that it raised an eyebrow that the process was stopped to move to a request for proposals process to allow other companies to come in. The Mayor urged her colleagues to think about that and asked if there were any questions or comments. Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — July 13, 2022 10 Commissioner Davis pointed out that he's been around longer, for the whole 3 years, and recalled that he sponsored legislation in 2019 to establish a vacant property ordinance in the City, to address some of the derelict properties which lead to safety and health concerns in the Community. The Commissioner said that he shared Mayor Williams' same sentiments, lamenting that he didn't see much movement since the legislation passed, acknowledging that the Commission is now picking up the issue with the understanding that City Staff has been working with the contractor. He also said that it's not unusual for the City to do piggyback bids or put out items that are to be procured through the request for proposals process, with it usually being a management decision. The Commissioner acknowledged that some of the procurement costs can be cut by a piggyback contract because another municipality's contract is just being tailored, as opposed to the request for proposals process which requires the City to expend money to advertise. He stated that he doesn't care if it goes through the request for proposals process or is a piggyback but pointed out that a lot of times with a piggyback contract, the City takes some of the bad things that may not necessarily fit the Community and may not always be the best option. Commissioner Davis added that he would personally not want to lead that decision because the Commission is not privy to those sort of day-to-day decisions with the City Manager's Office making recommendations to the Commission. He concluded by stating that if the Commission has a problem, they can take it back based on a consensus of the Commission and can reconsider how the item is procured. Vice Mayor Taylor asked if the company has a contract with the City. Planning and Community Development Department Director Gregory Gay informed the Commission that the company has no contract with the City. Vice Mayor Taylor stated that he had no idea what was being talked about regarding the meetings that Commissioners had, and he asked if the company that had those meetings was being advocated for, because he said that's what it sounded like. Mayor Williams said that she is not saying that part. Vice Mayor Taylor stated that he's been an advocate for foreclosing on vacant properties and doesn't have a problem with the request for proposals process because he agrees with his colleague and said he would like to see how it can be shaped to fit Opa-locka as opposed to going with the piggyback contract. The Vice Mayor said that it sounds like a company is being advocated for and he is confused by the statements about Commissioners having secret meetings. Mayor Williams explained that she is not advocating for any company and asserted that she is advocating for the best company. The Mayor said that she did her research and saw that two offices within the City including the City Attorney's Office and Mr. Gay's Office Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — July 13, 2022 11 had 3 years worth of conversations and meetings with a company that had already started the process because of the piggyback contract. She went on to share her understanding that the office had to initially go to that company in order to start those conversations and offered assurances that she is definitely supportive of the request for proposals process because it allows the fishnet to go out further. The Mayor added that it is what gives her pause because the request for proposals tells her that they are now advocating and trying to bring in another company that anyone wants to sneak in, while clarifying that she is not saying it's the Commission. She shared that it bothers her because they already started the process, that they all wanted it to happen, and she said that the process had already been done. Planning and Community Development Department Director Gregory Gay explained that if the process was done, his Department's Staff would have presented a piggyback contract to the Commission. Mayor Williams asked why they didn't present a piggyback contract to the Commission. Planning and Community Development Department Director Gregory Gay explained that based on the evaluation completed by his Department's Staff, they were not fully satisfied with the information that was being provided by that particular company and wanted to look at other opportunities, which is why they felt it would be better to go through the request for proposals process. Mayor Williams stated that she wanted to make it known that this is something that makes her raise a brow because it looks as if the City is going to stop because someone may have said that they may have found another company and the fishnet was opened wider. The Mayor said that now it's convenient to say that they didn't do what the City wanted, but 3 years were wasted working with them. Vice Mayor Taylor stated that he sees the complete opposite of what Mayor Williams sees because if they are advocating for a particular company, it gives him pause. The Vice Mayor said that he would rather put the fish net out to get someone that is tailored for Opa- locka. He reiterated that it sounds like a particular company is being advocated for based on conversations that he wasn't privy to because he wasn't on the Dais 3 years ago. Mayor Williams pointed out that she wasn't privy to the conversations 3 years ago because she wasn't on the Dais then either. Vice Mayor Taylor said that Mayor Williams stated that things were said to her, and he doesn't even know what meetings they were alluding to. Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — July 13, 2022 12 Mayor Williams explained that she was talking about the meetings that Planning and Community Development Department Director Gregory Gay had with the City Attorney. Vice Mayor Taylor said that Mayor Williams had said that she talked to somebody and did her own research. Mayor Williams stated that all of the Members of the Commission can do research. Vice Mayor Taylor said that his question is how Mayor Williams would know to do that research if she wasn't told to do that, and he said that she brought it up. Mayor Williams acknowledged that she brought it up but said that it wasn't the point. Vice Mayor Taylor stated that he would rather see it go through the request for proposals process because if they are going to do it, they should do it right and fair. Mayor Williams said it can go through the request for proposals process, but she is just saying to keep their eyes open. Vice Mayor Taylor said that he doesn't think they should accuse the City Employees. Mayor Williams said she is not accusing anyone. Vice Mayor Taylor took issue with Mayor Williams saying things like keep your eyes open. Commissioner Bass asked Community Development Department Director Gregory Gay if the company that had been under consideration for the piggyback contract, would have an opportunity to bid through the request for proposals process. Community Development Department Director Gregory Gay confirmed that the company that had been under consideration for the piggyback contract, would absolutely have an opportunity to bid through the request for proposals process. Commissioner Dominguez stated that after hearing what Mayor Williams said, she doesn't really feel comfortable with the City talking to a company for the past 2 or 3 years and not being presented to the Commission. Commissioner Bass said that she totally understands what Commissioner Dominguez said but explained that she asked about the request for proposals process because if it goes out and anybody can bid, then the Commission can make a decision based on what is vetted and they can do their part to take care of City business. Mayor Williams pointed out that the company had been vetted because it was a proposed piggyback contract. Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — July 13, 2022 13 There being no additional discussion, the proposed resolution was approved by a 3-2 vote. Commissioner Dominguez No Vice Mayor Taylor Yes Commissioner Bass Yes Commissioner Davis Yes Mayor Williams No 2. [13-3] A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF OPA-LOCKA, FLORIDA, AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE AMENDMENT #1 TO THE DW130331 LOAN AGREEMENT WITH THE FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION, RELATING TO THE STATE REVOLVING FUND (SRF) LOAN PROGRAM FOR DRINKING WATER; PROVIDING FOR INCORPORATION OF RECITALS; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. Sponsored by City Manager The above resolution was read into the record by Assistant City Attorney Candice Cobb. Mayor Williams asked Interim City Manager Williams to introduce Agenda Item 12-2. Interim City Manager Williams asked Public Works Department Director Airia Austin to introduce Agenda Item 12-2. Public Works Department Director Airia Austin informed the Commission that the resolution proposed by Agenda Item 12-2 would close a drinking water loan in the amount of $2.4 million that was obtained in 2015 for City-wide drinking water projects. Mr. Austin further explained that at the time, the State of Florida relegated the spending only to Cairo Lane which used up all of the drinking water portions of the loan. He said that the State of Florida requested that the City close the remaining balance and apply for any new loans for drinking water. It was moved by Commissioner Dominguez, seconded by Commissioner Bass to discuss Agenda Item 12-2. Commissioner Dominguez asked why information related to sewer pump station 7 was attached to Agenda Item 12-2 if it is related to drinking water. Public Works Department Director Airia Austin assured the Commission that the resolution proposed by Agenda Item 12-2 is solely for the closeout of a drinking water loan and should not be connected to any sewer pump stations, acknowledging Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — July 13, 2022 14 that there may be some scrivener's errors on the item. Mr. Austin asked if the Finance Department could address the discrepancy because they proffered the language for the closeout of the drinking water loan. Financial Consultant Gerri Lazarre stated that the resolution proposed by Agenda Item 12-2 just amends the language for the drinking water loan and she didn't know why the additional component was attached because they only submitted the amendment documents, and there shouldn't be anything else related to the sewer pump station. Commissioner Dominguez thanked Public Works Department Director Airia Austin and Financial Consultant Gerri Lazarre for their explanation. There being no additional discussion, the proposed resolution was approved by a 5-0 vote. Vice Mayor Taylor Yes Commissioner Bass Yes Commissioner Davis Yes Commissioner Dominguez Yes Mayor Williams Yes 3. [13-4] A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF OPA-LOCKA, FLORIDA, AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO ISSUE AN ADDITIONAL PAYMENT OF TEN THOUSAND, THREE HUNDRED NINETY DOLLARS ($10,390.00) TO MARCUM, LLP FOR ADDITIONAL SUPPLEMENTAL WORK RELATED TO COMPLETING THE SEPTEMBER 30, 2020 AUDIT; PROVIDING FOR INCORPORATION OF RECITALS; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. Sponsored by City Manager The above resolution was read into the record by Assistant City Attorney Candice Cobb. Mayor Williams asked Interim City Manager Williams to introduce Agenda Item 12-3. Interim City Manager Williams asked Acting Finance Director Gerri Lazarre to introduce Agenda Item 12-3. Acting Finance Director Gerri Lazarre stated that Marcum LLP was selected to perform the audit, which was initially set to begin in January but a lot of changes and delays, caused delays with the audit and delays with Marcum LLP, which Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — July 13, 2022 15 caused them to revisit their schedule. Ms. Lazarre explained that as a result of the delay, based on their contract, Marcum LLP has a right to ask for additional fees. She said that Marcum LLP will not come back on site to continue with the audit until the agreement is signed, and she stressed that it is needed so that the audit can continue. It was moved by Commissioner Davis, seconded by Vice Mayor Taylor to discuss Agenda Item 12-3. Commissioner Dominguez recalled that during the November 22, 2021 Special Commission Meeting during which the proposal from Marcum LLP was accepted, Acting Finance Director Gerri Lazarre stated that Marcum LLP would begin working on 2 audits, with the 2020 audit being completed between February and March which she noted didn't happen, and the 2021 audit being completed by June 30, 2022. The Commissioner also pointed out that they received an email stating that TriMerge Consulting terminated their contract on June 29, 2022. In reviewing the proposals that were received, she noted that Marcum LLP had the highest score with the lowest cost at $39,995. She went on to share the company information in their proposal, further noting that Marcum LLP touted itself as a top 15 firm that has provided professional services to more than 250 government entities and has performed more than 40 audits. Commissioner Dominguez also pointed out that Marcum's proposal states that they will perform an audit on the financial statements of the City of Opa-locka for the fiscal years ending September 30th 2020 and 2021, having acknowledged receipt of all of the addendums and committing to performing the work within the time period defined in the request for proposals. The Commissioner assured that she is all for getting ahead with the audit because the City needs to get out of financial oversight, but asked why Marcum LLP had not completed the audit, especially the 2020 audit which she asked if they had been paid for, while pointing out that an additional amount was being proposed to be paid. Acting Finance Director Gerri Lazarre explained that the Finance Department lost 2 Staff Accountants who were critical to the audit, in November and December, which led to struggles within the Department. Ms. Lazarre also stated that the turnover in the City Manager's Office was critical because the Finance Department can't sign off on anything without the City Manager, and she said that there were a lot of things that the auditors had requested that the Finance Department couldn't even get signed because there was no City Manager in place, which she lamented was a problem in the beginning when they were starting the audit. Additionally, she informed the Commission that the auditor sent a list of things they wanted prepared before the audit begins, and Ms. Lazarre shared that the Finance Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — July 13, 2022 16 Department struggled to put that information together internally with the City's Departments. When the deadline for the information the auditor wanted was missed, she said that the auditor had to push the schedule to accommodate the City and she also said that it wasn't completely the external auditor's fault with all of the internal things happening in the City of Opa-locka. Ms. Lazarre went on to point out that even with the addition of the fee for Marcum LLP included in the resolution, as proposed by Agenda Item 12-3, they are still the lowest price with the others being $70,000 to $80,000. She also shared that Marcum LLP has a lot of experience that they've been able to share with the Finance Department Team, and she said that they are happy to have them, adding that she doesn't see any problems with them. Ms. Lazarre informed the Commission that most firms use professional service billing over time, and she said that Marcum LLP had sent 2 invoices so far because they had started working on the City's audit as well as 2 invoices for the Community Redevelopment Agency audit, which she mentioned have been forwarded. She added that one of the bills had been paid, with another one outstanding, totaling about $10,000 of the $30,000 and stating that she doesn't anticipate paying them everything until the audit is delivered in a draft format. Commissioner Dominguez noted that the Marcum LLP proposal states that their firm agreed to furnish the City with written progress reports with the frequency that is reasonably requested as specified in the request for proposals and asked if the Commission can get a report on how far the audit is and asked how soon they can get that. Acting Finance Director Gerri Lazarre informed the Commission that every certified public accountant firm works a little differently with some giving a detailed listing, but she said that Marcum LLP seems to just give one sentence, with more detail provided through their portal. Ms. Lazarre also stated that Marcum LLP has given the Finance Department status update letters that she said are not as detailed as the Commission may want, but she said that those have gone to the City Manager's Office, and she offered to put them together to provide a status update. Commissioner Dominguez said she would appreciate the report because it will be helpful to know where the audit is at, and she thanked Acting Finance Director Gerri Lazarre. There being no additional discussion, the proposed resolution was approved by a 5-0 vote. Commissioner Bass Yes Commissioner Davis Yes Commissioner Dominguez Yes Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — July 13, 2022 17 Vice Mayor Taylor Yes Mayor Williams Yes 4. [13-5] A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF OPA-LOCKA, FLORIDA, CALLING FOR A REFERENDUM OF THE QUALIFIED ELECTORS OF THE CITY FOR THE PURPOSE OF DETERMINING WHETHER THE CITY CHARTER SHALL BE AMENDED TO INCREASE THE COMPENSATION FOR THE MAYOR AND COMMISSION MEMBERS FROM FIVE HUNDRED AND FIFTY DOLLARS PER MONTH TO ONE THOUSAND DOLLARS PER MONTH; PROVIDING FOR LIFE INSURANCE AND MEDICAL INSURANCE; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE 30 DAYS FOLLOWING THE CONCLUSION OF STATE FINANCIAL OVERSIGHT; STATING THE REFERENDUM QUESTION; STATING THE TEXT OF THE PROPOSED CHARTER AMENDMENT; STATING THE DATE ON WHICH THE REFERENDUM WILL BE HELD; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE FOR THE CHARTER AMENDMENT, IF APPROVED; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. The above resolution was read into the record by Assistant City Attorney Candice Cobb. It was moved by Commissioner Davis, seconded by Commissioner Bass to discuss Agenda Item 12-4. Mayor Williams stated that because the Charter Review Board had already spoken on the item, the Commission can move ahead and vote. There being no additional discussion, the proposed resolution was approved by a 5-0 vote. Commissioner Davis Yes Commissioner Dominguez Yes Vice Mayor Taylor Yes Commissioner Bass Yes Mayor Williams Yes 5. [13-6] A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF OPA-LOCKA, FLORIDA, CALLING FOR A REFERENDUM OF THE QUALIFIED ELECTORS OF THE CITY FOR THE PURPOSE OF DETERMINING WHETHER THE CITY CHARTER SHALL BE AMENDED TO INCREASE THE COMPENSATION FOR THE MAYOR AND COMMISSION MEMBERS Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — July 13, 2022 18 FROM FIVE HUNDRED AND FIFTY DOLLARS PER MONTH TO ONE THOUSAND DOLLARS PER MONTH; PROVIDING FOR LIFE INSURANCE, MEDICAL INSURANCE AND A THREE HUNDRED DOLLAR MONTHLY VEHICLE STIPEND; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE 30 DAYS FOLLOWING THE CONCLUSION OF STATE FINANCIAL OVERSIGHT; STATING THE REFERENDUM QUESTION; STATING THE TEXT OF THE PROPOSED CHARTER AMENDMENT; STATING THE DATE ON WHICH THE REFERENDUM WILL BE HELD; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE FOR THE CHARTER AMENDMENT, IF APPROVED; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. The above resolution was read into the record by Assistant City Attorney Candice Cobb. It was moved by Commissioner Davis, seconded by Vice Mayor Taylor to approve Agenda Item 12-5. There being no discussion, the proposed resolution was approved by a 5-0 vote. Commissioner Dominguez Yes Vice Mayor Taylor Yes Commissioner Bass Yes Commissioner Davis Yes Mayor Williams Yes 13. ADMINISTRATION: CONSENT AGENDA: 1. A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF OPA- LOCKA, FLORIDA, APPOINTING BEATRICE CAZEAU AND VICTOR H. DE YURRE AS CODE ENFORCEMENT SPECIAL MAGISTRATES; 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, APPROVING ISSUANCE OF A REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS ("RFP") FOR THE PROVISION OF VACANT/ABANDONED/FORECLOSED PROPERTY MANAGEMENT SERVICES FOR THE CITY; PROVIDING FOR INCORPORATION OF Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — July 13, 2022 19 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 EXECUTE AMENDMENT #1 TO THE DW130331 LOAN AGREEMENT WITH THE FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION, RELATING TO THE STATE REVOLVING FUND (SRF) LOAN PROGRAM FOR DRINKING WATER; 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 ISSUE AN ADDITIONAL PAYMENT OF TEN THOUSAND, THREE HUNDRED NINETY DOLLARS ($10,390.00) TO MARCUM, LLP FOR ADDITIONAL SUPPLEMENTAL WORK RELATED TO COMPLETING THE SEPTEMBER 30, 2020 AUDIT; PROVIDING FOR INCORPORATION OF RECITALS; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. Sponsored by City Manager 5. A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF OPA-LOCKA, FLORIDA, CALLING FOR A REFERENDUM OF THE QUALIFIED ELECTORS OF THE CITY FOR THE PURPOSE OF DETERMINING WHETHER THE CITY CHARTER SHALL BE AMENDED TO INCREASE THE COMPENSATION FOR THE MAYOR AND COMMISSION MEMBERS FROM FIVE HUNDRED AND FIFTY DOLLARS PER MONTH TO ONE THOUSAND DOLLARS PER MONTH; PROVIDING FOR LIFE INSURANCE AND MEDICAL INSURANCE; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE 30 DAYS FOLLOWING THE CONCLUSION OF STATE FINANCIAL OVERSIGHT; STATING THE REFERENDUM QUESTION; STATING THE TEXT OF THE PROPOSED CHARTER AMENDMENT; STATING THE DATE ON WHICH THE REFERENDUM WILL BE HELD; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE FOR THE CHARTER AMENDMENT, IF APPROVED; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. 6. A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF OPA-LOCKA, FLORIDA, CALLING FOR A REFERENDUM OF THE QUALIFIED ELECTORS OF THE CITY FOR THE PURPOSE OF DETERMINING WHETHER THE CITY CHARTER SHALL BE AMENDED TO INCREASE THE Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — July 13, 2022 20 COMPENSATION FOR THE MAYOR AND COMMISSION MEMBERS FROM FIVE HUNDRED AND FIFTY DOLLARS PER MONTH TO ONE THOUSAND DOLLARS PER MONTH; PROVIDING FOR LIFE INSURANCE, MEDICAL INSURANCE AND A THREE HUNDRED DOLLAR MONTHLY VEHICLE STIPEND; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE 30 DAYS FOLLOWING THE CONCLUSION OF STATE FINANCIAL OVERSIGHT; STATING THE REFERENDUM QUESTION; STATING THE TEXT OF THE PROPOSED CHARTER AMENDMENT; STATING THE DATE ON WHICH THE REFERENDUM WILL BE HELD; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE FOR THE CHARTER AMENDMENT, IF APPROVED; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE Vote taken on Consent Agenda items can be viewed under Agenda Item 6 — Approval of the Consent Agenda. 14. NEW ITEMS: There were none. 15. PLANNING & ZONING: A. PUBLIC HEARINGS: There were none. B. APPEALS: There were none. 16. ORDINANCES/RESOLUTIONS/PUBLIC HEARINGS: A. FIRST READING ORDINANCE(S)/PUBLIC HEARING(S): 1. 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 Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — July 13, 2022 21 APPROPRIATION OF ALL BUDGETS AND EXPENDITURES; 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. Sponsored by City Manager The above ordinance was read by Assistant City Attorney Candice Cobb. Mayor Williams asked Interim City Manager Williams to introduce Agenda Item 16-A-1. Interim City Manager Williams asked Budget Administrator Anathan to introduce Agenda Item 16-A-1. Budget Administrator Anathan informed the Commission that approximately $977,000 worth of items that were not previously addressed in the budget, were identified and should be addressed. He offered to make a presentation to the Commission or just respond to their questions. Mayor Williams opened the Public Hearing for Agenda Item 16-A-1. There being no members of the public to address the Commission, Mayor Williams closed the Public Hearing for Agenda Item 16-A-1. It was moved by Commissioner Bass, seconded by Vice Mayor Taylor to discuss Agenda Item 16-A-1. Mayor Williams asked if the Commission had any questions for Budget Administrator Anathan. There being no discussion, the proposed ordinance was approved by a 5-0 vote. Vice Mayor Taylor Yes Commissioner Bass Yes Commissioner Davis Yes Commissioner Dominguez Yes Mayor Williams Yes B. SECOND READING ORDINANCE(S)/PUBLIC HEARING(S): There were none. Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — July 13, 2022 22 C. RESOLUTION(S): There were none. 17. CITY MANAGER'S REPORT: Interim City Manager Williams addressed the items that came up during the Citizens' Forum. The Manager specifically addressed the concerns presented by the Parker Family and stated that the City is aware of the issues with illegal dumping, and he offered assurances that his Staff is working judiciously to address it. He explained that they have had meetings with Miami -Dade County about amending the memorandum of understanding so that it serves the City better and have also had conversations about opening the City's transfer station. The Manager went on to state that his Staff has had conversations with the owners of the Opa-locka Flea Market about various uses but pointed out that it is private property and zoned for the use which their proposals meet. Mayor Williams asked for the status of the open storage ordinance. Interim City Manager Williams asked Planning and Community Development Director Gregory Gay to provide an update on the open storage legislation. Planning and Community Development Director Gregory Gay informed the Commission that the open storage legislation is still in development and said that his Department is pretty much ready to finalize it. Mr. Gay said that they were going to be presenting it to the City Manager tomorrow so that it can be ready to be brought before the Commission by their next meeting. Mayor Williams asked Manager Williams for the status of the meetings that the Commission had asked to have happen between the City Manager and the City Attorney, during their closed session meeting. Interim City Manager Williams informed the Commission that the City Attorney had sent an email that afternoon stating that she has availability on Friday to meet with him. Mayor Williams stated that she wanted to read into the record that Florida's Inspector General Ms. Melinda Miguel reviewed the invoices for the City's legal services for October 2020, December 2020 and January 2021 and she said that they've been paid by the State of Florida with all the additional details that were provided. Commissioner Davis said that he would like to state for the record that he was not included on the communication that has been happening between the City Attorney's Office and the State of Florida, that he said all Members of the Commission were copied on. The Commissioner also stated for the record that he has reached out to the City Attorney's Office through phone calls, emails, during his agenda briefing and through the Clerk's Office with a public records request in reference to those items but has yet to receive a response. He did acknowledge having received the response from earlier that day which came from Florida's Inspector General Melinda Miguel about the approval of the City Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — July 13, 2022 23 Attorney's invoices, but he reiterated that he wanted to state for the record that he was not included, didn't know if anyone else was excluded and said he still hadn't received the communication. Mayor Williams asked that all Members of the Commission are included in all communication at all times. The Mayor also asked that if Commissioner Davis hadn't received the communication by now, that all those emails be forwarded to him as soon as possible. City Attorney Norris -Weeks addressed Commissioner Davis' comment, stating that the email she had in front of her has Commissioner Davis copied in addition to all other Commissioners, and she offered to re -forward that again. The City Attorney also said that she had great communication with the State of Florida. She stated that the format of her bills is fine, noting Florida Inspector General Melinda Miguel's comments, and adding her assertion that there are no discrepancies on the bills, and nothing is out of order. The Attorney said she wanted to put that on the record, so that hopefully they don't have to continue to revisit that type of issue. She pointed out that the Commission has probably seen the email communication that went back and forth, stating that she reached out to the City Manager after their closed -door session and that she made a third attempt earlier that day to meet with him on the Union issues. The Attorney informed the Commission that the City Manager did respond earlier that day and told her of his availability, adding that she would try to gather her team for a Friday meeting because the Manager is looking to meet on Saturday for a closed -door session. Interim City Manager Williams stated that he had set the closed -door session for 9 and 10 AM on Saturday because of an event sponsored by Commissioner Bass at 12 PM. City Attorney Norris -Weeks read into the record the notice of a private closed door attorney client session pursuant to Section 447.605 of Florida Statutes, to be held in the Commission Chambers at Sherbondy Village Auditorium, located at 215 Perviz Avenue on July 16, 2022 at 9 AM. The City Attorney said that the purpose of the meeting is to discuss the union negotiations between the City of Opa-locka and the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees. The City Attorney also read into the record the notice of a private closed door attorney client session, to be held in the Commission Chambers at Sherbondy Village Auditorium, located at 215 Perviz Avenue on July 16, 2022 at 10 AM. The City Attorney said that the purpose of the meeting is to discuss the union negotiations between the City of Opa-locka and the Miami -Dade County Police Benevolent Association, also known as the South Florida Police Benevolent Association. 18. OFFICIAL BOARD REPORTS: There were none. 19. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS: There were none. Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — July 13, 2022 24 20. MAYOR/COMMISSION REPORTS: Commissioner Dominguez addressed Interim City Manager Williams and stated that he was appointed on April 4, 2022 by the Commission to be the Interim Manager until they find a permanent Manager. The Commissioner also stated that the City Clerk, the City Attorney and the City Manager all report to the Commission and not to just one or two Commissioners. She said that in the beginning, she had good conversations with the Manager, discussing a lot of items, ideas and projects. Commissioner Dominguez then said that she doesn't know what happened 2 weeks after, stating that she had had no response from him on specific dates that she read for the record. The Commissioner said that on Tuesday, April 19th, she called the Manager on her personal cell phone at 1:20 pm, but she said she never received a call or text back until 5 hours later at 6:52 pm, after she said she called him from her City phone at 6:28 pm. She went on to say that on Wednesday, April 27th they were supposed to have a regular meeting at 1 pm and said that the City Clerk called the Manager's Office to remind him of the meeting. The Commissioner said that the Manager texted her at 1:03 stating that he was on his way and then texted her at 1:42 that he apologized because he was on a call with the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. Pointing out that she waited for the Manager for about an hour and actually used her lunch break to come to the meeting, she said that when she has a meeting with her boss at a specific time, she has to be there at the scheduled time. Commissioner Dominguez stated that the Manager doesn't report to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement or the Governor's Office and said that the Manager reports to her and the rest of the Commission. In addition, the Commissioner said that on Friday, June 24, 2022 she met with the Manager regarding the resolution adopted on April 13th for the paint program for residents, and she recalled that the Manager informed her that it would take 2 months to execute from the time it passed, and he said that he would get an update from City Staff including Ms. Adlina Gross and would email her by Monday, June 27, 2022 by the end of the day. She lamented that she never received a call or email with any updates. She further stated that on Friday, June 8th, they met, and she asked the Manager about the paint program again, at which time he gave her information about the cost, adding that she was happy to hear something. Commissioner Dominguez also said that the Manager stated that it had to go through the oversight board for approval, but she noted that an email she had dated on May 5, 2022 states that it was passed by Florida's Inspector General Melinda Miguel. The Commissioner asked why there are consistent delays on moving projects from the Commission forward. She said that she doesn't know if anybody else on the Dais is having these issues with non -responsiveness from the Manager, but she said that it's clear that it is happening because she is experiencing it. Interim City Manager Williams informed Commissioner Dominguez that he can provide a list of items that she has requested that he addressed extensively and that have been resolved. The Manager said that most recently the Commissioner requested that a resident Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — July 13, 2022 25 have the Public Works Department look at their yard, and they got that done. He also said that Commissioner Dominguez had them look at another resident's citation, which the Manager said is under review. Manager Williams also informed the Commissioner that he keeps a roster that he will provide her, and he said that out of the 19 requests that she has made, maybe 3 of them have faced some delays. He pointed out that Commissioner Dominguez is the only Commissioner he was weekly one-on-one meeting with and said that she is actually not treated poorly but is treated more favorably than the others. Manager Williams added that he makes himself available to all Members of the Dais for weekly meetings, and he appreciates that those are important to Commissioner Dominguez, as they are to him. Addressing the paint program legislation, he reminded the Commissioner that in their one-on-one meetings, he shared with her that the legislation did not fund the paint program, so they have been working to figure it out. He recalled that Commissioner Dominguez first suggested putting in American Rescue Plan Act funds and he had said that they will have to have an American Rescue Plan Act Workshop to move that forward. Since the Workshop is not until next week, the Manager said that the Commissioner recommended that he look at the City Manager's budget, which he said they've done and he had sent an email to address that specifically, in which he discussed opportunities to pay for the program. For the record, Manager Williams read the response that he provided to Commissioner Dominguez, stating that the only previous paint program that anyone remembers was a program 5 or 6 years ago which the paint was donated to by an external source with volunteers doing the painting, with the City apparently incurring no expense. He went on to explain that the preliminary assumptions for the project were that 1 gallon of paint covers about 300 square feet of wall and costs around 30 dollars. With the assumption that it would take around 5 gallons to paint a small house in Opa- locka, the Manager said it would cost about $150 and a $10,000 City commitment would provide paint for around 60 residents, cautioning that the assumptions need to be further validated, but said that the program would be analogous to the Broward program. Manager Williams said that as can be seen in the report that he provided to Commissioner Dominguez contemporaneously, they are actively working to resolve any of her concerns and issues, and he committed to making himself available to her. The Manager also pointed out that the Commissioner had texted him as recently as Monday evening to ask if he had any information about a call from a resident regarding an accident involving a 6 -year -old girl that possibly overdosed on Saturday. He said that he responded on Tuesday morning at 7:10 am, confirming that he was in receipt of her text message and would provide her with additional information once he had it. The Manager acknowledged that it did take some time because it turned out not to be an Opa-locka situation, so they weren't able to identify any information regarding the incident but he, the Police Department and particularly Captain Holborow kept working at it. He said that he responded to Commissioner Dominguez within 24 hours of her request, and informed her that the source of her inquiry was not an Opa-locka resident, explaining that there was an incident Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — July 13, 2022 26 involving a one -year -old who overdosed on pain medication on Saturday, July 9, 2022 at 9:07 at 3280 NW 209th Terrace in the City of Miami Gardens jurisdiction, and that Rescue 51 did transport the child to Jackson Memorial Hospital North as confirmed by Miami - Dade County Fire Department. Manager Williams acknowledged that the Commissioner thanked him, and he stated that he looks forward to continuing that level of responsiveness. Commissioner Dominguez stated that the Public Works Department went to the home of the resident Interim City Manager Williams referenced, but she said that was 3 months ago and she's not sure who was in place at that time. The Commissioner said that somebody went there, took photos of the section that belongs to the City where there is a hole, but said that through the resident's communication with Manny, she was told that all they were going to do is put rocks, which she said will be moving with water and will be right in the same position, adding that the resident stated that they have still not done anything. In regards to her other request, Commissioner Dominguez directed Manager Williams to put the paint program into place by the Next Commission Meeting on July 27th, because she said that if it passed through the State of Florida, she doesn't understand why it is so difficult to get through, adding that it had been 3 months since the Manager stated it would take 2 months to execute. The Commissioner concluded by asking that it get done by the next meeting or sooner. Interim City Manager Williams asked for clarification from Commissioner Dominguez on her request. Commissioner Dominguez stated that the paint program resolution already passed April 13, 2022 and was approved by the State of Florida, but she said that Interim City Manager Williams told her that it needed to be approved again. Stating that she didn't know why it needed to be approved again, the Commissioner said she was thankful that she looked for the emails that state that the legislation was approved. She said that other legislation has passed and been executed, but she doesn't understand why this one in particular has not been done. The Commissioner also said that she didn't recall the program Manager Williams mentioned from 5 or 6 years ago, but she said that she mentioned to him one that was older that allowed Residents to pick up 5 -gallons of paint at Public Works and all they had to do was show their identification, which she said that she knew because she profited from that paint herself. She acknowledged that she is not sure how it was executed, assuming it was probably a donation, but she said that if the City has money available, she would like for it to go through because it already passed. Vice Mayor Taylor gave a shout -out to the Parks & Recreation Department Director Zonya Ray, the Opa-locka Police Department, especially Captain Holborow and the City Manager's Office for putting the Gubernatorial Forum event together. The Vice Mayor shared that he spoke to both camps, and he reported that they said it was the first forum Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — July 13, 2022 27 that they actually felt safe because the Police Department had the dogs roaming around. He also said that it was a great event that allowed Opa-locka to have something that they never really have in the City. Interim City Manager Williams said that it was his pleasure. Commissioner Bass thanked the Members of the Dais who supported the students at Dr. Robert B. Ingram Elementary during their talent's week. The Commissioner shared that the Clerk's Office, City Attorney Norris -Weeks, City Manager Williams, Mayor Williams, Vice Mayor Taylor and Commissioner Davis came out to support the children. She also shared that they had a mock Commission meeting on Monday and said that some of the children want to be like some of the Members of the Dais. Commissioner Bass went on to say that she looks forward to seeing all of the Members of the Commission on Saturday from 12 to 3 pm, at an event honoring the 12th grade students from the City of Opa-locka, in partnership with Commissioner Davis. The Commissioner shared that they would have trade schools, colleges, Publix, Miami Lakes Tech and other entities who will come in to be with the students. Commissioner Davis stated that he hosted the second Community Conversations event at the Town Center Apartments, and said that it was very eventful, positive and uplifting. The Commissioner thanked the Staff that was on hand including Code Enforcement Department Manager Wilma Wilcox who is always available for public meetings and was phenomenal at taking notes and ensuring that many of the concerns that were brought up were addressed as it relates to the Public Works Department, safety and crime issues. He also thanked the City Manager's Office and Vice Mayor Taylor for co -moderating and helping to organize the Gubernatorial forum with Charlie Crist and Nikki Fried. The Commissioner said it was a great event and pointed out that they talked about many issues that are impacting our State, noting that we are at a pivotal moment in our State's history with housing and other concerns that need to be addressed. He concluded by also thanking City Staff, the Police Department and the Parks & Recreation Department for all they do to make sure that City events run seamlessly. Commissioner Bass said that she forgot that the Police Department made sure that the kids got to Sherbondy Auditorium safely for their mock Commission. The Commissioner also shared that she is elated to let her colleagues on the Dais know that for the first time in its history, Dr. Robert B. Ingram Elementary is a "B" school. Mayor Williams offered assurances that the Commission plans to celebrate the fact that Dr. Robert B. Ingram Elementary achieved a "B" school rating, pointing out that a number of her colleagues on the Dais actually went to the school. The Mayor went on to share that Miami -Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava invited her to meet with her, stating that it was amazing to discuss the future, housing, safety and a number of things. She said that Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — July 13, 2022 28 the County is committed to having a great working relationship with Opa-locka. The Mayor also shared that on her way out, Mayor Levine Cava gave her a pebble that says "inspire" and she thanked her for her knowledge and girl power. She said that they want to make sure that Opa-locka is moving forward, especially urging them not to forget that they came from the ills and unfortunate crimes of the City. Mayor Williams also thanked Carrie Meek Foundation President and Chief Executive Officer Lucia Davis -Raiford for also meeting with her, City Manager Williams and Police Chief Israel and trying to bring partnerships into the City. The Mayor added her thanks to Congresswoman Frederica Wilson for inviting her to meet Marcia Fudge, the U.S. Secretary of Housing and Urban Development who was in Opa-locka. She expressed her elation that Opa-locka is on the map and people are ready to descend and have great conversations and partnerships, adding that they want to continue to do that. Mayor Williams then asked the Clerk's Office to poll the City Commission to meet so that they can do long-term and strategic planning, recalling that they did it a while back. She said that as they move into September, they have their priorities and that everything the Commission has placed on their agendas, are done. The Mayor said that so long as all of their projects are part of their long-term and strategic planning for their priorities, they can make the City great, adding that it already is. She concluded by thanking everyone including the City Employees for all the blood, sweat and tears that they give each and every day. Deputy Clerk Wills said that he wanted to take a moment to thank someone very special that was on the Dais, informing the Commission that it would be the last meeting with Mrs. Diane Darden as an Employee of the Clerk's Office. The Deputy Clerk said that he knew he spoke for City Clerk Joanna Flores when he thanked Mrs. Darden profusely for her 20 years of service in the Office of the City Clerk, being the face of the City in many cases when folks come to visit Members of the Commission, being the first person they see. He went on to say that Mrs. Darden has served honorably, and the Clerk's Office is very proud of everything she has done, thanking her for everything she does for the City and wishing her well as she pursues her passions to serve the Senior Citizens of the Community. Mayor Williams thanked Mrs. Diane Darden for all that she has done for the Clerk's Office and the City. The Mayor recalled her first day on the job when she saw her and said that she remembered her as a little girl at the park with her sister when she used to cheer for the park. She went on to thank Mrs. Darden for her service, expressing their love for her and their excitement that the Seniors are going to have her now. 21. OFFICIAL BOARD APPOINTMENTS: There were none. 22. ADJOURNMENT: Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — July 13, 2022 29 There being no further business to come before the City Commission, it was moved by Vice Mayor Taylor and seconded by Commissioner Dominguez, to adjourn the Meeting at 9:13 p.m. VE(ronica J. Williams Mayor Attest: Jo . na Flores, CMC Ci Clerk Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — July 13, 2022 30