HomeMy WebLinkAbout03.26.2025 - Regular City Council MeetingCity of Miami Gardens
City Council Minutes
March 26, 2025
1. CALL TO ORDER/ROLL CALL
The City Council for the City of Miami Gardens, Florida, met in regular session,
Mar 26 2025, beginning at 05:30:00 PM, in the Council Chambers, 18605 NW
27th Avenue, Miami Gardens, Florida.
The following members of the City Council were present: Vice Mayor Robert
Stephens, Councilwoman Katrina L. Baskin, Councilwoman Michelle C. Powell,
D.O., MPH, Councilman Reggie Leon, Councilwoman Katrina Wilson, and
Councilwoman Linda Julien.
Also in attendance were: City Manager Cameron Benson, City Attorney Sonja
Dickens, and City Clerk Mario Bataille.
A motion made by Councilwoman Julien, seconded by Councilman Leon,
to excuse the absence of Mayor Harris passed and carried by a unanimous
voice vote.
2. INVOCATION
Vice Mayor Stephens delivered the Invocation.
3. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Recited in unison.
4. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
4.1. Regular City Council Meeting Draft Minutes – February 26, 2025
Councilwoman Julien noted a correction to the minutes to indicate Item
12.1 was withdrawn from the Agenda.
A motion offered by Councilman Leon, seconded by Councilwoman
Julien, to approve the minutes as amended passed and carried by a
6 to 0 voice vote of the City Council.
5. ORDER OF BUSINESS
Councilwoman Powell requested Items 12.4 and 12.5 is pulled from the Consent
Agenda.
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A motion made by Councilman Leon, seconded by Councilwoman Julien,
to approve the Agenda as amended past and carried by a unanimous voice
vote.
6. SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS (5 MINUTES EACH)
6.1. SPECIAL PRESENTATION BY COUNCILWOMAN MICHELLE C.
POWELL.
Councilwoman Powell was joined by the City Council in recognizing the
Honorable Jeffery G. Jones, 19th Most Worshipful Grand Master of the
Most Worshipful Union Grand Lodge of Florida; Belize, Central America;
& Jurisdiction, Inc. Prince Hall Affiliated, for his leadership and community
engagement.
6.2. 2025 AGC BUILD FLORIDA AWARD FOR ROLLING OAKS PARK.
The City Council received the 2025 AGC Build Florida Award for the
Rolling Oaks Park improvement project, recognized as the Best Public
Use Project in the State of Florida.
6.3. VETERAN AFFAIRS ADVISORY BOARD QUARTERLY REPORT
Veterans Affairs Advisory Board Chair Janee Sheffield appeared before
the City Council to present the Board’s Quarterly Report.
7. PUBLIC COMMENTS
Mamon Tisdol, 17031 NW 11th Avenue, Miami Gardens, FL, appeared before
the City Council to express a complaint regarding ongoing communications with
a City employee.
Leanor S. Hernandez, 18400 NW 22nd Avenue, Miami Gardens, FL, appeared
before the City Council to share concerns regarding illegal trailers and
recreational vehicles throughout the City, and requested that the City address
the issue.
John Zeigler, 18501 NW 22nd Court, Miami Gardens, FL, appeared before the
City Council to express concerns about a code violation related to storm shutters
and the City’s code enforcement practices.
Lynette Hickenbottom, 20832 NW 25th Avenue, Miami Gardens, FL, appeared
before the City Council to speak in support of the Myrtle Grove Park
Improvement and in opposition to extending the term limits of the City Council.
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Tina Alexander, 2455 NW 179th Terrace, Miami Gardens, FL, appeared before
the City Council to share concerns regarding the City’s Home Alarm Registration
process.
Samuel Leland, 1811 NW 155th Street, Miami Gardens, FL, appeared before
the City Council to request assistance with seawall improvements in his area
and expressed opposition to extending the City Council’s term limits.
Rea Hughes, 3335 NW 180th Street, Miami Gardens, FL, appeared before the
City Council to commend the Building Department for its "Online Services"
Workshop and Seat 6 Sponsored Fitness Challenge. She also expressed
concerns about City Council meeting procedures and opposed extending
Council term limits.
Twyla Davis, 3461 NW 213th Terrace, Miami Gardens, FL, appeared before the
City Council to raise concerns about the presence of farm animals within City
limits and limited parking availability near a neighboring daycare center.
Julius Jackson, 1832 NW 193rd Street, Miami Gardens, FL, appeared before the
City Council to discuss a code violation related to storm shutters and requested
clarification on procedures for holding a Special Election for a referendum.
Jennifer Nijhove, 1731 NW 206th Street, Miami Gardens, FL, appeared before
the City Council to express concerns about non-enforcement of school zone
speeding regulations near the Robert Renick Education Center.
Maria Betancourt, 4474 NW 185th Street, Miami Gardens, FL, appeared before
the City Council to report an illegal dumping site in the Kings Gardens
community.
Reggie White, 20141 NW 14th Place, Miami Gardens, FL, appeared before the
City Council to share concerns regarding the School Zone Speeding
Enforcement Program and the City’s communication with residents.
Warrick Norman, 2365 NW 182nd Terrace, Miami Gardens, FL, appeared before
the City Council to express concerns regarding a code enforcement violation his
family received concerning storm shutters.
Lola Evans, 19440 NW 7th Avenue, Miami Gardens, FL, appeared before the
City Council to raise concerns about speeding on NW 7th Avenue and opposed
the extension of the City Council’s third term.
Janice Coakley, 19681 NW 33rd Avenue, Miami Gardens, FL, appeared before
the City Council to oppose extending Council term limits and emphasized the
importance of improving communication and civic engagement.
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Dorothy J. Morrison, 3535 NW 213th Street, Miami Gardens, FL, appeared
before the City Council on behalf of the North County Citizens Association to
express opposition to extending the City Council’s term limits.
Beverly Bush, 3125 NW 205th Street, Miami Gardens, FL, appeared before the
City Council to express concerns about the potential impact of extended term
limits on Council availability and salaries.
Ulysses Harvard, P.O. Box 540122, Opa Locka, FL, appeared before the City
Council to speak against extending the City Council’s term limits.
Dr. James Davis, 1500 NW 154th Street, Miami Gardens, FL, appeared before
the City Council to oppose extending the City Council’s term limits.
Linda Mobley Schofield, 3261 NW 213th Street, Miami Gardens, FL, appeared
before the City Council to voice opposition to extending Council term limits.
Howard Dupree, 1734 NW 192nd Street, Miami Gardens, FL, appeared before
the City Council to oppose the extension of City Council term limits.
Karen Hunter-Jackson, 1420 NW 199th Street, Miami Gardens, FL, appeared
before the City Council to express opposition to extending Council term limits.
Gale Cunningham, 19001 NW 14th Avenue Road, Miami Gardens, FL,
appeared before the City Council to oppose extending Council term limits and
for holding a Special Election on the matter.
Timothy Reid, 19445 NW 8th Court, Miami Gardens, FL, appeared before the
City Council to raise concerns about the School Zone Speeding Enforcement
Program and to express opposition to term limit extensions.
Christine Malcolm, 18910 NW 31st Avenue, Miami Gardens, FL, appeared
before the City Council to oppose Agenda Item 12.4 regarding the repurposing
of Science Fair Event funds and supported Item 9.1 related to the clean zone
ordinance, requesting expansion of the designated area.
Carol Lawrence, 831 NW 207th Street, Miami Gardens, FL, appeared on behalf
of the Commission for Women Advisory Board to present Councilwoman Wilson
with an appreciation award for her support.
Francis Ragoo, 889 NW 214th Street, Miami Gardens, FL, appeared before the
City Council to oppose extending Council term limits.
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Clifford Murray, 2931 NW 210th Terrace, Miami Gardens, FL, appeared before
the City Council to raise concerns about neighborhood noise nuisances and
shared challenges experienced while applying for a roof permit.
Melodie Delancey, 620 NW 187th Street, Miami Gardens, FL, appeared before
the City Council in support of allowing residents to vote on the matter of
extending Council terms.
Larry Mitchell, NW 205th Street, Miami Gardens, FL, appeared before the City
Council to express opposition to extending Council term limits.
Majori Cross, 1425 NW 193rd Terrace, Miami Gardens, FL, appeared before the
City Council to oppose term limit extensions and recommended using funds
designated for a Special Election to instead create a hardship fund for residents.
Rae Rajkamar, 1303 Partridge Cove, Miami, FL, appeared before the City
Council to commend Councilwoman Katrina Wilson for her service to the
community.
Pauline Kin, 99 NW 183rd Street, Miami Gardens, FL, appeared before the City
Council to seek support for her upcoming initiative, the Soles of Love Program,
hosted by the Community Love Seed nonprofit organization.
Yvone Porter, 193 NW 12th Avenue, Miami Gardens, FL, appeared before the
City Council to raise concerns about a citation received under the School Zone
Speeding Enforcement Program and shared concerns about rising property
insurance costs for fixed-income homeowners.
Claudette McLean, 18035 NW 8th Place, Miami Gardens, FL, appeared before
the City Council to speak in opposition to extending Council term limits.
Denise Brown, 1821 NW 2nd Avenue, Miami Gardens, FL, appeared before the
City Council to voice opposition to extending the term limits of the City Council.
8. REPORTS OF MAYOR AND COUNCIL MEMBERS
Councilwoman Baskin reported on the following sponsored initiatives:
Mentoring Symposium Building a Legacy for Global Impact
Manhood Mondays
Community Collaboration Meetings
Roar Fest & Community Expo
Free Dental Clinic
Councilwoman Wilson reported on the following sponsored initiatives:
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Noted she was a recipient of the Lifetime of Strength of Award
Arsht on the Road
Juneteenth Park and Party
Miami Carol City 9th Annual Chief Hall Picnic
Councilwoman Powell reported on the following sponsored initiatives:
Talk with a Doc
Residents' Choice Award
Community Resource Forum on HealthCare, Housing, and Community
Safety
Health Fair
Disability Youth Mixer
Healthy You Livestream
Stress Management Health Symposium
Councilman Leon reported on the following sponsored initiatives:
Legal Aide Day
Vice Mayor Stephens reported on the following sponsored initiatives:
Open Office Hours
Table Talk Tuesday
Miami Gardens Dream Scholarship Program
9. ORDINANCE(S) FOR FIRST READING:
9.1. AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI
GARDENS, FLORIDA, AMENDING CHAPTER 6 “BUSINESSES”,
ARTICLE V - “SALE OF MERCHANDISE”; SECTION 6-195 “SELLING,
SERVING, VENDING, SOLICITING IN PUBLIC RIGHTS-OF-WAY
GENERALLY” OF THE CODE OF ORDINANCES TO AMEND THE
ESTABLISHED TIME FOR THE CLEAN ZONE DURING STADIUM
EVENTS TO ESTABLISH A RESTRICTED STADIUM ZONE TO
PROHIBIT THE OPERATION OF PEDICABS, GOLF CARTS AND LOW
SPEED VEHICLES IN SAID ZONE; PROVIDING FOR ADOPTION OF
REPRESENTATIONS; REPEALING ALL ORDINANCES IN CONFLICT;
PROVIDING A SEVERABILITY CLAUSE; PROVIDING FOR INCLUSION
IN CODE; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
Councilman Leon provided an overview and intent of this Ordinance.
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A motion was made by Councilman Leon, seconded by
Councilwoman Julien, to approve the Ordinance on Second
Reading.
Councilwoman Powell requested consideration of an amendment of the
Ordinance by removing the criminal penalty provision of the Ordinance
known as section 6-195(16). She requested the City Council consider
replacing the penalty provision with a civil enforcement mechanism, such
as a permanent ban on the vendor found in violation of the Ordinance by
a Court of Law.
Answering a question posed by Councilman Leon, City Attorney Dickens
made it known the penalty provision referenced is statutory language
allowed for any violation of any City Code in the State of Florida and it is
not a penalty for this particular violation. In addition, Attorney Dickens
highlighted the City of Miami Gardens does not place individuals in jail for
code violations and it is currently part of the City's Code. Furthermore,
Attorney noted the city does not permanent ban business found in
violation of the City's code.
Councilwoman Powell requested consideration of her recommended
amendment.
Councilwoman Julien noted she would like further information on the
suggestion made by Councilwoman Powell.
Councilwoman Wilson confirmed the item can be amended on second
reading once clarity on the proposal is received.
There being no further question, Vice Mayor Stephens called the question
on the item.
A motion offered by Councilman Leon, seconded by Councilwoman
Julien, to approve the Ordinance on first reading passed and carried
by a 6 to 0 roll call vote of the City Council.
Mayor Harris Absent
Vice Mayor Stephens Yes
Councilwoman Baskin Yes
Councilwoman Powell, D.O., MPH Yes
Councilman Leon Yes
Councilwoman Wilson Yes
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Councilwoman Julien Yes
10. ORDINANCE(S) FOR SECOND READING/PUBLIC HEARING(S)
11. RESOLUTION(S)/PUBLIC HEARING(S)
12. CONSENT AGENDA:
12.1. A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI
GARDENS, FLORIDA, ALLOCATING FUNDS FROM VICE MAYOR
STEPHENS’ COMMUNITY BENEFIT ACCOUNT IN AN AMOUNT NOT
TO EXCEED TEN THOUSAND DOLLARS ($10,000) IN SUPPORT OF
ONGOING COMMUNITY INITIATIVES; PROVIDING FOR THE
ADOPTION OF REPRESENTATIONS; PROVIDING FOR AN
EFFECTIVE DATE.
12.2. A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI
GARDENS, FLORIDA AUTHORIZING THE ALLOCATION NOT TO
EXCEED THREE THOUSAND DOLLARS FROM MAYOR RODNEY
HARRIS' COMMUNITY BENEFIT ACCOUNT FOR DONATION TO THE
9th ANNUAL GLITZ & GIRL POWER AWARDS SHOW DESIGNATED
TO CELEBRATE WOMEN'S EMPOWERMENT AND ACHIEVEMENTS
DURING WOMEN'S HISTORY MONTH. THE EVENT WILL BE HELD
AT GULFSTREAM PARK ON THURSDAY, MARCH 27, 2025, FROM
6PM TO 10PM. PROVIDING FOR THE ADOPTION OF
REPRESENTATIONS; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
12.3. A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI
GARDENS, FLORIDA AUTHORIZING THE ALLOCATION NOT TO
EXCEED ONE THOUSAND DOLLARS FROM MAYOR RODNEY
HARRIS' COMMUNITY BENEFIT ACCOUNT FOR SPONSORSHIP OF
QUARTERLY TROLLEY TOURS FOR RESIDENTS OF THE CITY OF
MIAMI GARDENS. THE INTENT OF THE QUARTERLY TROLLEY
TOURS IS TO HIGHLIGHT THE CITY'S PUBLIC / PRIVATE
DEVELOPMENTS AND NEW PUBLIC AMENITIES. PROVIDING FOR
THE ADOPTION OF REPRESENTATIONS; PROVIDING FOR AN
EFFECTIVE DATE.
12.4. A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI
GARDENS, FLORIDA, ALLOCATING FUNDS FROM
COUNCILWOMAN LINDA JULIEN’S COMMUNITY BENEFIT
ACCOUNT IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED TWO THOUSAND ONE
HUNDRED DOLLARS ($2,100) FOR MONETARY AWARDS TOWARDS
HER WRITING CONTESTS; PROVIDING FOR ADOPTION OF
REPRESENTATIONS; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
12.5. A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI
GARDENS, FLORIDA, REPURPOSING FUNDS FROM
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COUNCILWOMAN LINDA JULIEN’S SCIENCE FAIR EVENT FOR
COMMUNITY INITIATIVES IN THE AMOUNT OF TWENTY THOUSAND
DOLLARS ($20,000); PROVIDING FOR ADOPTION OF
REPRESENTATIONS; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
This item was pulled from the Consent Agenda.
12.6. A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI
GARDENS, FLORIDA, DIRECTING THE CITY MANAGER TO
IMPLEMENT THE ATTACHED SCREENING AND OBTAINING
SPONSORS FOR RECREATION PROGRAMS GUIDELINES;
PROVIDING FOR ADOPTION OF REPRESENTATIONS; PROVIDING
AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
This item was pulled from the Consent Agenda.
12.7. A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI
GARDENS, FLORIDA TO NAME THE FIELD AT WALT FRAZIER PARK
AFTER RODERICK "ROD" MACK; PROVIDING FOR AN ADOPTION
OF PRESENTATIONS; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE
12.8. A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI
GARDENS, FLORIDA AUTHORIZING AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED
ONE THOUSAND FIVE HUNDRED DOLLARS ($1,500.00) FROM
COUNCILWOMAN MICHELLE POWELL'S COMMUNITY BENEFIT
ACCOUNT IN SUPPORT OF THE MENTAL HEALTH SYMPOSIUM
EVENT, TAKING PLACE ON MAY 10, 2025; PROVIDING FOR THE
ADOPTION OF REPRESENTATIONS; PROVIDING FOR AN
EFFECTIVE DATE.
12.9. A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI
GARDENS, FLORIDA AUTHORIZING AN ALLOCATION OF TWO
THOUSAND FIVE HUNDRED DOLLARS ($2,500.00) FROM
COUNCILWOMAN MICHELLE POWELL'S COMMUNITY BENEFIT
ACCOUNT TO THE MIAMI GARDENS NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH, INC.
IN SUPPORT OF THEIR 4TH ANNUAL ARBOR DAY SENIOR HOME
BEAUTIFICATION PROJECT, PROVIDING FOR THE ADOPTION OF
REPRESENTATIONS; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
12.10. A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI
GARDENS, FLORIDA, AWARDING INVITATION TO BID (“ITB”) NO.
24-25-004, ANNEXED AREA DRAINAGE IMPROVEMENT PROJECT,
TO H & J ASPHALT, INC DBA H & J PAVING CORP.; AUTHORIZING
THE CITY MANAGER TO ISSUE PURCHASE ORDER(S), AS
NEEDED, NOT TO EXCEED THE BUDGETED AMOUNT OF TWO
MILLION EIGHT HUNDRED SEVENTY-SEVEN THOUSAND FIVE
HUNDRED TWELVE DOLLARS ($2,877,512.00); PROVIDING FOR
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THE ADOPTION OF REPRESENTATIONS; PROVIDING FOR AN
EFFECTIVE DATE.
12.11. A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI
GARDENS, FLORIDA, APPROVING AMENDMENTS TO THE 2022-
2025 LOCAL HOUSING ASSISTANCE PLAN (LHAP); PROVIDING
FOR THE ADOPTION OF REPRESENTATIONS; PROVIDING FOR AN
EFFECTIVE DATE.
12.12. A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI
GARDENS, FLORIDA, APPROVING THE OAK VILLAGE FINAL PLAT
FOR THE PROPERTY GENERALLY LOCATED BETWEEN NW 191ST
STREET TO THE NORTH AND NW 189TH STREET TO THE SOUTH,
MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA, ATTACHED HERETO AS EXHIBIT "A";
PROVIDING FOR THE ADOPTION OF REPRESENTATIONS;
PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
12.13. A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI
GARDENS, FLORIDA, AUTHORIZING THE THIRD AND FINAL
RENEWAL OF INVITATION TO BID (ITB) NUMBER 20-21-001—
CITYWIDE DRAINAGE IMPROVEMENTS PROJECT—TO METRO
EXPRESS, INC., AS PRIMARY VENDOR AND ATC ENGINEERING,
INC. AND NATIONAL CONCRETE AND PAVING, LLC., AS
SECONDARY VENDORS; PROVIDING FOR THE ADOPTION OF
REPRESENTATIONS; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
12.14. A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI
GARDENS, FLORIDA, AUTHORIZING THE FIRST RENEWAL OF
INVITATION TO BID (ITB) NUMBER 21-22-008—SIDEWALK
REPLACEMENT & INSTALLATION ANNUAL CONTRACT—TO
METRO EXPRESS, INC., AS THE PRIMARY VENDOR AND GPE
ENGINEERING & GENERAL CONTRACTOR CORP. AS THE
SECONDARY VENDOR; PROVIDING FOR THE ADOPTION OF
REPRESENTATIONS; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
A motion offered by Councilman Leon, seconded by
Councilwoman Julien, to approve the Consent Agenda passed and
carried by a 6 to 0 voice vote of the City Council.
13. RESOLUTION(S)
13.1. A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI
GARDENS, FLORIDA, REPURPOSING FUNDS FROM
COUNCILWOMAN LINDA JULIEN’S SCIENCE FAIR EVENT FOR
COMMUNITY INITIATIVES IN THE AMOUNT OF TWENTY THOUSAND
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DOLLARS ($20,000); PROVIDING FOR ADOPTION OF
REPRESENTATIONS; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
ouncilwoman Powell referenced the City Charter's Truth in Government
clause and expressed concerns regarding whether this item meets the
clause's transparency requirements for the City's finances. She also
questioned the status of the Science Fair event and suggested the
possibility of rescheduling it. Furthermore, she indicated her lack of
support for the item.
Councilwoman Julien then provided an overview of the item and its intent
to repurpose funds in a transparent manner.
Councilwoman Powell referred to the budgetary cut of the Senior Prom
from the FY 2024-2025 approved budget, seeking clarification on why the
Senior Prom funds were not repurposed and inquiring about the
destination of the funds from the Science Fair event. She emphasized her
desire to see the funds redirected towards a similar initiative or back to
the General Fund, as she found the proposed item unclear.
A motion was made by Councilwoman Julien, seconded by
Councilwoman Wilson, to approve the Resolution.
Councilwoman Julien noted that the City Council had previously approved
a similar item reallocating a portion of the budget to support the Miami
Gardens Youth Music Festival. She highlighted that regardless of which
member sponsors an activity, residents benefit from community
engagement.
Councilwoman Julien welcomed Councilwoman Powell’s transparency
concerns, emphasizing that the item's purpose is to bring transparency to
the reallocation of budgeted funds for other City initiatives.
Referencing Councilwoman Powell’s recently held “Laugh Out Loud”
event, Councilwoman Julien questioned whether Councilwoman Powell
would be bringing an item before the Council for approval of budgetary
funding for that event.
Vice Mayor Stephens retained the floor to maintain focus on the item
under Council consideration and called for the question.
A motion offered by Councilwoman Julien, seconded by
Councilwoman Wilson, to approve the Resolution passed and
carried by a 5 to 1 roll call vote of the City Council.
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Mayor Harris Absent
Vice Mayor Stephens Yes
Councilwoman Baskin Yes
Councilwoman Powell, D.O., MPH No
Councilman Leon Yes
Councilwoman Wilson Yes
Councilwoman Julien Yes
13.2. A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI
GARDENS, FLORIDA, DIRECTING THE CITY MANAGER TO
IMPLEMENT THE ATTACHED SCREENING AND OBTAINING
SPONSORS FOR RECREATION PROGRAMS GUIDELINES;
PROVIDING FOR ADOPTION OF REPRESENTATIONS; PROVIDING
AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
Councilwoman Powell spoke in support of the item but expressed
concerns regarding the absence of an appeal process and the lack of a
defined standard for determining who becomes a sponsor.
Councilwoman Wilson responded that the concerns raised by
Councilwoman Powell are operational in nature and are typically handled
by staff. She added that such matters are generally not included in a
Resolution, as they are addressed during the implementation process by
the assigned department.
Councilwoman Powell noted that the department already has a standard
operating procedure in place that is similar to what is being proposed by
the Resolution.
A motion offered by Vice Mayor Stephens, seconded by Councilman
Leon, to approve the Resolution passed and carried by a 6 to 0 roll
call vote of the City Council.
Mayor Harris Absent
Vice Mayor Stephens Yes
Councilwoman Baskin Yes
Councilwoman Powell, D.O., MPH Yes
Councilman Leon Yes
Councilwoman Wilson Yes
Councilwoman Julien Yes
13.3. A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI
GARDENS, FLORIDA, DIRECTING THE CITY CLERK TO TAKE ALL
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STEPS NECESSARY TO ORGANIZE A SPECIAL ELECTION IN 2025
FOR A PROPOSED CHARTER AMENDMENT TO EXTEND TERM
LIMITS FOR THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL MEMBERS FROM TWO
CONSECUTIVE TERMS TO THREE CONSECUTIVE TERMS;
PROVIDING FOR THE ADOPTION OF REPRESENTATIONS;
PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
Councilwoman Wilson thanked the residents for their engagement on the
matter and acknowledged the participation of both those present and
those not in attendance. She continued by speaking on the intent of the
item.
The discussion was momentarily disrupted by an outburst, prompting
Vice Mayor Stephens to remind all present of the importance of
maintaining decorum.
A break in decorum occurred in the Council Chambers, leading Vice
Mayor Stephens to call a brief recess at 7:38 p.m.
Following the recess, Vice Mayor Stephens reconvened the meeting and
called for a motion to adjourn.
A motion offered by Councilwoman Julien, seconded by
Councilwoman Powell, D.O., MPH, to adjourn the meeting passed
and carried by a unanimous vote of the City Council.
14. QUASI-JUDICIAL ZONING HEARINGS/JENNINGS
DISCLOSURE:
14.1 ORDINANCES ON FOR FIRST READING/PUBLIC HEARING(S):
14.2 ORDINANCES ON FOR SECOND READING/PUBLIC HEARING(S)
14.3 RESOLUTION(S)/PUBLIC HEARING(S)
15. REPORTS OF CITY MANAGER/CITY ATTORNEY/CITY CLERK
(3 MINUTES EACH)
16. WRITTEN REQUESTS, PETITIONS & OTHER WRITTEN
COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE PUBLIC
17. ADJOURNMENT
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Upon approval of a motion, the meeting adjourned without objection at 7:40 p.m.
Rodney Harris, Mayor
Mario Bataille, City Clerk
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EXHIBIT A – WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS
RECEIVED
This Message Is From an External Sender
This message came from outside your organization. Report Suspicious
From:Mario Bataille
Bcc:City Council1
Subject:Written Communication: City Council Meet AGENDA ITEM 13.1 (March 25, 2025)
Date:Wednesday, March 26, 2025 4:04:00 PM
Attachments:image001.png
Good Afternoon Honorable Mayor and City Council,
Please see the below written communication as an FYI.
Best Regards,
Mario Bataille, CMC
City Clerk
City of Miami Gardens
Office of the City Clerk
18605 NW 27th Avenue | Miami Gardens, FL 33056
Phone: 305-622-8000 ext. 2830 | Fax: 305-622-8001
mbataille@miamigardens-fl.gov
www.miamigardens-fl.gov
From: Bettye Cepeda <cepedab2019@gmail.com>
Sent: Wednesday, March 26, 2025 3:55 PM
To: Mario Bataille <mbataille@miamigardens-fl.gov>
Subject: City Council Meet AGENDA ITEM 13.1 (March 25, 2025)
Hello Mayor and City Council, I am Bettye Cepeda 18801 NW 17th Court Miami Gades, FL 33056 I am writing to inform you that I would like for you to vote "NO" on Resolution 13. 1. The 3 reasons stated for the three terms do not in myZjQcmQRYFpfptBannerStart
ZjQcmQRYFpfptBannerEndHello Mayor and City Council,
I am Bettye Cepeda
18801 NW 17th Court
Miami Gades, FL 33056
I am writing to inform you that I would like for you to vote "NO" on Resolution 13.1.
The 3 reasons stated for the three terms do not in my opinion merit 3 terms as there is no
guarantee that an official will actually serve more than one term.
Respectfully, Bettye Cepeda
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From:Mario Bataille
Bcc:City Council1
Subject:Written Communication: Letter of Support - Resolution 25-046
Date:Wednesday, March 26, 2025 1:15:00 PM
Attachments:Letter of Support - State Rep Robinson.pdf
image001.png
Good Afternoon Honorable Mayor and City Council,
As an FYI, please see the attached written communication from State Representative Felicia
Robinson referencing Item 12.5 (Agenda Cover Memo #25-046).
Best Regards,
Mario Bataille, CMC
City Clerk
City of Miami Gardens
Office of the City Clerk
18605 NW 27th Avenue | Miami Gardens, FL 33056
Phone: 305-622-8000 ext. 2830 | Fax: 305-622-8001
mbataille@miamigardens-fl.gov
www.miamigardens-fl.gov
From: Freeman, Kennedi <Kennedi.Freeman@FLHouse.gov>
Sent: Wednesday, March 26, 2025 1:09 PM
To: Mario Bataille <mbataille@miamigardens-fl.gov>
Cc: Linda Julien <ljulien@miamigardens-fl.gov>
Subject: Letter of Support - Resolution 25-046
Good afternoon, I have attached State Representative Robinson’s Letter of Support for Resolution 25-046, Sponsored by Councilwoman Linda Julien. Thank you, Kennedi Freeman District Aide|#104 Office of State Representative Felicia RobinsonZjQcmQRYFpfptBannerStart
ZjQcmQRYFpfptBannerEndGood afternoon,
I have attached State Representative Robinson’s Letter of Support for Resolution 25-046, Sponsored
by Councilwoman Linda Julien.
Thank you,
Kennedi Freeman
District Aide|#104
Office of State Representative Felicia Robinson
Cell: 305-610-6248
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From:Mario Bataille
Bcc:City Council1
Subject:Written Communication: City Council meeting for 3/26/2025
Date:Wednesday, March 26, 2025 12:57:00 PM
Attachments:image001.png
Good Afternoon Honorable Mayor and City Council,
Please see the below written communication as an FYI.
Best Regards,
Mario Bataille, CMC
City Clerk
City of Miami Gardens
Office of the City Clerk
18605 NW 27th Avenue | Miami Gardens, FL 33056
Phone: 305-622-8000 ext. 2830 | Fax: 305-622-8001
mbataille@miamigardens-fl.gov
www.miamigardens-fl.gov
From: zak <zlett@comcast.net>
Sent: Tuesday, March 25, 2025 4:43 PM
To: Mario Bataille <mbataille@miamigardens-fl.gov>
Cc: Lashara Bostic <lbostic@miamigardens-fl.gov>
Subject: City Council meeting for 3/26/2025
Good evening Mr. Bataille, Reference Agenda Resolution item 13. 1, this is a request to ask all Council members to pull this item. Also, please place this email on public record. Thanks Zak Lett 3335 NW 180TH Street Miami, FL 33056 ZjQcmQRYFpfptBannerStart
ZjQcmQRYFpfptBannerEndGood evening Mr. Bataille,
Reference Agenda Resolution item 13.1, this is a request to ask all Council members
to pull this item.Also, please place this email on public record.
Thanks
Zak Lett
3335 NW 180TH Street
Miami, FL 33056
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From:Mario Bataille
Cc:Cameron Benson; Sonja Dickens
Bcc:City Council1
Subject:Written Communication: Term limit
Date:Wednesday, March 26, 2025 12:15:31 PM
Attachments:image001.png
Good Afternoon Honorable Mayor and City Council,
As an FYI, please view the below written communication.
Best Regards,
Mario Bataille, CMC
City Clerk
City of Miami Gardens
Office of the City Clerk
18605 NW 27th Avenue | Miami Gardens, FL 33056
Phone: 305-622-8000 ext. 2830 | Fax: 305-622-8001
mbataille@miamigardens-fl.gov
www.miamigardens-fl.gov
From: gwen0525@aol.com <gwen0525@aol.com>
Sent: Tuesday, March 25, 2025 6:03 PM
To: Mario Bataille <mbataille@miamigardens-fl.gov>
Subject: Term limit
To the Honorable Mayor Rodney Harris and the City of Miami Gardens Council Please let it be known that I, Gwendolyn Thomas Williams as previously stated is opposed to the extension of terms of office. Please adhere to the charter. Thank you. ZjQcmQRYFpfptBannerStart
ZjQcmQRYFpfptBannerEndTo the Honorable Mayor Rodney Harris and the City of Miami Gardens Council
Please let it be known that I, Gwendolyn Thomas Williams as previously stated is opposed to the
extension of terms of office. Please adhere to the charter. Thank you.
Sincerely,
Gwendolyn Thomas Williams
17031 NW 42 Avenue
Miami Gardens, FL 33055-4407
305-915-4324
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From:Mario Bataille
Cc:Cameron Benson; Sonja Dickens; Lashara Bostic; Michelle McKenzie
Bcc:City Council1
Subject:Written Communication: Public Comments for March 26, 2025 MG Council Meeting
Date:Wednesday, March 26, 2025 11:55:00 AM
Attachments:image001.png
Good Afternoon Honorable Mayor and City Council,
As an FYI, please see the below written communication received.
Best Regards,
Mario Bataille, CMC
City Clerk
City of Miami Gardens
Office of the City Clerk
18605 NW 27th Avenue | Miami Gardens, FL 33056
Phone: 305-622-8000 ext. 2830 | Fax: 305-622-8001
mbataille@miamigardens-fl.gov
www.miamigardens-fl.gov
From: Ron Harris <ronharris982@yahoo.com>
Sent: Wednesday, March 26, 2025 11:42 AM
To: Mario Bataille <mbataille@miamigardens-fl.gov>
Cc: Sharon Frazier <luchie3@hotmail.com>
Subject: Public Comments for March 26, 2025 MG Council Meeting
Name: Ronald Harris Address: 17730 NW 14th Court I have several points of concern, to bring before the Council. And they all either have to do with Accountability, or Transparency. Number 1- Is this Council's constant attempts, to get a thirdZjQcmQRYFpfptBannerStart
ZjQcmQRYFpfptBannerEndName: Ronald Harris
Address: 17730 NW 14th Court
I have several points of concern, to bring before the Council. And they all either
have to do with Accountability, or Transparency.
Number 1- Is this Council's constant attempts, to get a third term added to the
Charter. Something resident speaker at UPPAC or the Council Meetings since I
first heard of it, fall 2024.
In fact, I have never remember hearing an explanation, given to the residents. As
to why this is necessary, it is eerily similar to what is going on in our Country
these days.
This is first thing, justify. Don’t rely on Ms. Lacy and her crew to sway an election
on this, if you get a Special Election Granted.
Number 2- The announcement sign, at the entrance to City Hall, is ridiculously
small, and truly indicate that a) you have no intention of the resident being
informed or b) you have no events going on that the residents should be
interested in.
Number 3- Since he brought it up in October 2024. That why was $5,000,
allotted for two sets of bleachers, for high schoolers. That Mr. Tisdale said he did
the research on, and the bleacher cost was, $750 apiece.
I don’t recall that $3,500 difference, ever being explained. I look for an answer to
this email or at the first Council Meeting, in April. Five (5) months, is more than
sufficient time
Number 4- The residents also deserved an accounting of the Council’s recent
annual, Jazz in the Gardens event. The budget, how much spent, and profit and
loss, figures. Those figures should be available by and be announced, at the April
23, 2025 meeting.
Number 5- You should evaluate if your efforts to inform residents on how to
apply for the North Miami Beach, Water Refund. In fact, all Council persons
could hold a meeting of their districts with copies of the refund instructions (like
my attachment)
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From:Mario Bataille
Cc:Lashara Bostic; Michelle McKenzie
Bcc:City Council1
Subject:Written Communication: City Council Meeting, 3/26/2025, Reference Agenda, Resolution item 13.1, Please Pullthis item
Date:Monday, March 24, 2025 2:22:19 PM
Attachments:image001.png
Good Afternoon Honorable Mayor and City Council,
Please see the below written communication as an FYI.
Best Regards,
Mario Bataille, CMC
City Clerk
City of Miami Gardens
Office of the City Clerk
18605 NW 27th Avenue | Miami Gardens, FL 33056
Phone: 305-622-8000 ext. 2830 | Fax: 305-622-8001
mbataille@miamigardens-fl.gov
www.miamigardens-fl.gov
From: R Hughes <livne-z@live.com>
Sent: Sunday, March 23, 2025 11:20 AM
To: Mario Bataille <mbataille@miamigardens-fl.gov>
Cc: Lashara Bostic <lbostic@miamigardens-fl.gov>
Subject: City Council Meeting, 3/26/2025, Reference Agenda, Resolution item 13.1, Please Pull this
item
Good afternoon, Mr. Bataille, I trust this email finds you well. Reference subject, and due to emails are no longer being read, please ensure this email is forwarded and placed on record to all Council members. I'm requesting each Council memberZjQcmQRYFpfptBannerStart
ZjQcmQRYFpfptBannerEndGood afternoon, Mr. Bataille,
I trust this email finds you well.
Reference subject, and due to emails are no longer being read, please ensure this email is forwarded
and placed on record to all Council members.
I'm requesting each Council member to pull Resolution Item 13.1.
1. Mayor Rodney Harris.
2. Vice Mayor Robert Stephens III.
3. Councilman Reggie Leon.
4. Councilwoman Michelle Powell.
5. Councilwoman Katrina Baskin.
6. Councilwoman Linda Julien.
7. Councilwoman Katrina Wilson.
My vote remains "no"!
Please acknowledge receipt of this email.
Thanks,
Ms. Hughes
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