HomeMy WebLinkAboutMarch 9, 2005 CITY OF MIAMI GARDENS
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
MARCH 9, 2005
(A) CALL TO ORDER/ROLL CALL.
The City Council of the City of Miami Gardens,met in regular session on Wednesday,March
9,2005,beginning at 7:15 p.m.,in the City Council Chambers, 1515 NW 167"'Street,Building 5,Suite
200, Miami Gardens, Florida.
The following members of the City Council were present: Mayor Shirley Gibson,Vice Mayor
Aaron Campbell,Jr.,and Council members Barbara Watson,Melvin L.Bratton,and Sharon Pritchett.
Councilman Oscar Braynon, II, was not present at tonight's meeting however he was home resting
comfortably after undergoing a surgical procedural earlier during the day. Councilwoman Audrey J.
King was not present due to hospitalization however, she requested to participate telephonically.
Moved by Councilwoman Pritchett, seconded by Vice Mayor Campbell to allow
Councilwoman King to participate in tonight's meeting telephonically. This motion passed and
carried by a 5-0 vote.
(B) INVOCATION.
Vice Mayor Campbell delivered the Invocation.
(C) PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE.
The Pledge of Allegiance was recited in unison.
(D) APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Regular City Council Minutes February 23, 2005.
Moved by Vice Mayor Campbell, seconded by Councilman Bratton to approve the minutes
with the necessary additions/deletions as noted by the City Clerk. Motion passed and carried by a 6-
0 vote. Councilman Braynon was not present for this vote.
(E) ORDER OF BUSINESS (ADDITIONS/DELETIONS/AMENDMENTS):
Approved by a unanimous vote to add the following items:
Manager Crew requested that the official agenda be amended to add the following item under
the Consent Agenda:
K-12 "A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI GARDENS,
FLORIDA,AWARDING A BID TO CONTRACT CONNECTIONS,INC,IN AN AMOUNT NOT
TO EXCEED $220,950.00 FOR THE PURCHASE OF BUS BENCHES AND TRASH
RECEPTACLES;PROVIDING FOR THE CITY MANAGER TO ISSUE PURCHASE ORDERS;
PROVIDING FOR THE ADOPTION OF REPRESENTATION; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE
DATE."
Regular City Council Agenda
March 9,2005
Mayor Gibson further requested that the official agenda be amended to add the following
item under the Regular Agenda.
L-2 "A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI GARDENS,
FLORIDA, REQUESTING THAT THE MIAMI-DADE BOARD OF COUNTY
COMMISSIONERS OPPOSE ANY EXTENSION TO THE URBAN DEVELOPMENT
BOUNDARY TO ENCOURAGE INFILL DEVELOPMENT AND ADHERENCE TO THE
COUNTY ADOPTED,INCLUDING THE ADOPTED 2003 EVALUATION AND APPRAISAL
REPORT; PROVIDING FOR DIRECTIONS TO THE CITY CLERK; PROVIDING FOR THE
ADOPTION OF REPRESENTATIONS; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.."
Moved by Councilwoman Watson,seconded by Councilman Bratton to approve the official
agenda with the above referenced additions. This motion passed and carried by a 6-0 vote.
Councilman Braynon was not present for this vote.
(F) SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS (5 minutes each)
1. Bridget"Rize"Jones
Councilwoman Pritchett,along with Mayor Gibson,Vice Mayor Campbell,Councilwoman
Watson and Councilman Bratton presented Ms. Jones, an aspiring record producer/songwriter,for
her outstanding dedication in providing inspiration to her generation, and visionary aspiration to
revolutionize the world through music and poetry.
Ms.Jones,a tenth grader at Miami Carol City High School thanked the City Council for this
presentation. She then entertained the Council members as well as the listening audience with a
poetry selection from her latest CD.
2. Emma Duffie, Interim Director/New Markets Division, Miami-Dade Housing Agency
Emma Duffie was not present.
3. Ulises Martinez, Investigator, State Attorney's Office, Community Outreach Coordinator
Mr.Luis Martinez,an investigator with the State Attorney's Office,appeared before the City
Council to provide information about the services available through the State Attorney's Office,
which involves the Justice in Motion Outreach Program(JIM),a program funded by the Victims of
Crime Act Grant and the Miami-Dade County Department of Human Services. JIM is a 37-foot
mobile office equipped with state-of-the-art technology for community based interviewing of victims
and witnesses, and public education. The program's main purpose is to take JIM to those victims
and witnesses who are unable to come to the State Attorney's Office for help, interviewing, and
services. It is the State Attorney's Office intention to educate,inform, and enhance its community
relations. The State Attorney's Office encourages local officials,civic organizations and residents to
use the JIM for their community events, business luncheons or wherever it is thought to be of
service. JIM is available for community events 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
4. EEOC
Elisa M. Urquiza, Enforcement Manager with the United States Equal Employment
Regular City Council Minutes 2
March 9,2005
Opportunity Commission, with a business address of 1 Biscayne Tower, Suite 2700, 2 South
Biscayne Boulevard,Miami,Florida,appeared before the City Council to provide a brief history on
the establishing of the Commission and the Civil Rights Act, adopted July 1964. She shared that
the director of EEOC has developed a program that encourages community leaders to spread the
mission of eradicating discrimination in the employment setting. The EEOC stands ready and
committed to assisting the City of Miami Gardens with this initiative by partnering with the City in
order to make this a better community for all.
Councilman Bratton indicated that this presentation was Phase 1 of the Program the next
phase is to coordinate training sessions for the employees.
Ms. Urquiza indicated that she would be happy to schedule a session at the City's
convenience.
5. Christopher Norwood, a representative of The Children's Trust of Miami-Dade County,
appeared before the City Council to provide the Annual Report for the Children's Trust. The
Children's Trust funded the summer program in the City's parks through Cool Kids Learn,Inc.,as
well as provided assistance to the Concerned African Women Organization. The Children's Trust
of Miami Dade County provides funding for non-profits,for-profits,government agencies and faith
based organizations.
Mayor Gibson inquired about The Children's Trust of Miami-Dade County's application
funding cycle.
Mr. Norwood said the funding cycles are designated, specifically for the after school and
summer programs. The Children's Trust is also the leading advocacy for children issues,and lobby
Tallahassee on a variety of issues, such as health and Florida Kid Care.
6. Mr. Morgan Levy, Administrator with SOUTH DADE SOIL AND WATER
CONSERVATION DISTRICT,appeared before the City Council to solicit support of Item No. 10,
relating to the Proposed Memorandum of Understanding with the South Florida Soil and Water
Conservation District.
7. Horace McHugh, Assistant City Manager showcased the revised City of Miami Gardens
website.
(G) ZONING MATTERS
There were none
(I) ORDINANCE(S) FOR FIRST READING
(1) AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI
GARDENS, FLORIDA, ESTABLISHING GUIDELINES FOR CAMPAIGN
CONTRIBUTIONS; PROHIBITING CERTAIN CAMPAIGN
CONTRIBUTIONS;PROVIDING FOR COMPLIANCE WITH MIAMI-DADE
Regular City Council Minutes 3
March 9,2005
COUNTY'S ETHICAL CAMPAIGN PRACTICE ORDINANCE;PROVIDING
FOR ADOPTION OF REPRESENTATIONS; REPEALING ALL
ORDINANCES IN CONFLICT; PROVIDING A SEVERABILITY CLAUSE;
PROVIDING FOR INCLUSION IN CODE; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE
DATE. (SPONSORED BY MAYOR GIBSON).
Mayor Gibson explained that the adoption of this ordinance complies with Section 5.3 of the
City's Charter entitled Ethical Campaigns,states that the City shall pass ordinance(s)governing campaign
contributions to ensure fair elections that are not unduly influenced by monetary contributions. 1)The
ordinance shall cap campaign contributions;2)the ordinance should permit contributions to only come
from individual donors;and 3)the ordinance shall incorporate any other laws deemed necessaryto insure
fair elections.
Councilwoman Watson indicated that she researched the issue of campaign contribution and
found that City of Miami,the City of Hialeah and the City of Miami Beach has a maximum contribution
of$500.00,which is consistent with state law.
Councilman Bratton questioned whether the provision which allows for individual donors only
was provided for in the City's Charter,and excludes businesses from contributing.
Mayor Gibson indicated that this is correct,and is stated in the City's Charter. In order to change
the provision,a Charter amendment is required.
Councilman Bratton asked if potential candidates would receive this information.
Clerk Taylor indicated that this information would be provided as part of a FACT Sheet,as well,a
copy of the ordinance would be provided.
Moved by Councilwoman Watson,seconded by Councilman Bratton to amend the ordinance to
increase the maximum campaign contribution from the recommended$250.00 to$500.00
There being no further discussion on the amendment,the motion passed and carried by a 6-0
vote.
Councilman Bratton: Yes
Councilman Braynon: Not present
Vice Mayor Campbell: Yes
Councilwoman King: Yes
Councilwoman Pritchett: Yes
Councilwoman Watson: Yes
Mayor Gibson: Yes
There being no further discussion on the ordinance as a whole,it was moved by Councilwoman
Watson,seconded by Councilwoman Pritchett to approve on first reading,with second reading and public
hearing scheduled for March 23,2005,passed and carried by a"vote.
Regular City Council Minutes 4
March 9,2005
Councilman Bratton: Yes
Councilman Braynon: Not present
Vice Mayor Campbell: Yes
Councilwoman King: Yes
Councilwoman Pritchett: Yes
Councilwoman Watson: Yes
Mayor Gibson: Yes
(n ORDINANCE(S) FOR SECOND READING "PUBLIC HEARINGS."
ORDINANCE NO.2005-12-50
(1) AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI
GARDENS, FLORIDA, ESTABLISHING AN ELECTION CODE FOR THE
CITY OF NIIAMI GARDENS;PROVIDING FOR ADOPTION OF THE STATE
LAW; PROVIDING FOR DUTIES OF THE CITY COUNCIL; PROVIDING
FOR A PROCEDURE FOR THE CALL OF AN ELECTION; PROVIDING
FOR CITY CLERK TO SERVE AS SUPERVISOR OF ELECTIONS;
PROVIDING FOR CERTIFICATION OF ELECTION RESULTS;
PROVIDING FOR A FEE FOR CANDIDATES;PROVIDING FOR AN OATH
OF OFFICE; PROVIDING FOR BALLOT REQUIREMENTS; PROVIDING
FOR THE INSTALLATION OF NEW OFFICERS; PROVIDING FOR
ADOPTION OF REPRESENTATIONS;REPEALING ALL ORDINANCES IN
CONFLICT; PROVIDING A SEVERABILITY CLAUSE; PROVIDING FOR
INCLUSION IN CODE;PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.(SPONSORED
BY MAYOR GIBSON)
Mayor Gibson opened the floor for this public hearing. After there were no interested parties to
speak on behalf of this item,the public hearing was closed.
Moved by Vice Mayor Campbell, seconded by Councilwoman King to adopt this ordinance.
Councilwoman Pritchett shared that each Council member. when they ran for public office,
signed an Oath indicating they would conduct an Ethical Campaign,and related that she did not see a
Campaign Code of Ethics as part of this ordinance. She questioned why it was not included. She
further opined that by having a Campaign Code of Ethics in this Election Code we would ensure the
citizens feel comfortable an honest and ethical campaign process in the City of Miami Gardens.
Attorney Knighton Dickens stated that the City's Charter provides for Ethical Campaigning,
which was also addressed in the previous ordinance approved on first reading,as it related to campaign
contributions. The Charter fiuther provides that candidates have to abide by Miami-Dade County's
Ethical Campaign Practices Ordinance.
Councilwoman Pritchett concurred with the City Attorney, and opined that it is important to
have a similar provision in this ordinance.
Regular City Council Minutes 5
March 9,2005
Attorney Knighton Dickens referenced Section 8 of the Ordinance,entitled For Just Cause,and
shared that she provided language that all candidates for elective office for the City of Miami Gardens
were required to abide by the Miami-Dade County Ethical Campaign Practices Ordinance.
Clerk Taylor explained that as part of the qualifying paperwork,an Oath provided by Miami-
Dade County has to be sworn to by the candidate. By taking this Oath each candidate is stating that
they will abide by the County's Ethical Campaign Practices Ordinance. If this ordinance is violated,the
Miami-Dade County Ethics Commission would have jurisdiction to assess fines and penalties.
Councilwoman Pritchett opined that because the City is starting its own election process,for the
first time,it would be wise to have some mention of that provision in the City's Election Code. This
would ensure that those individuals running for office would be aware of this process. She suggested
including the language in the Oath prescribed in this ordinance, or somewhere else in the document.
Councilwoman Watson referenced page 1, lines 7 and 8 of the ordinance and asked whether
that language would suffice and address Councilwoman Pritchett's concerns.
Attorney Knighton Dickens recommended amending Section 10 of the ordinance by including
language in the Oath to include "I agree to abide by the Miami-Dade County Ethical Campaign
Practices Ordinance."
Moved by Councilwoman Pritchett, seconded by Councilwoman Watson to amend the
ordinance to include language as prescribed by Attorney Knighton Dickens.
Councilman Bratton referenced page 3,line 30 of the ordinance,which provides that the listing
of polling places shall be provided by resolution and asked for clarification.
Clerk Taylor explained that the only time the City would have to list polling places is if the City
was conducting a separate election from Miami-Dade County. The City of Miami Gardens,as per its
Charter piggybacks with Miami-Dade County's Primary and General Election schedule.
Councilwoman Watson questioned the time frame involved with identifying the polling places
and whether the City would have sufficient time to do this prior to holding any election in the City of
Miami Gardens.
Attorney Knighton Dickens stated that the ordinance provided for the calling of the election
nine weeks prior to the opening of qualifying,a procedure to address the polling place issue,could be
implemented at that point.
Manager Crew indicated that the provision which provides for calling the election indicates that
this should be done by ordinance, and opined that it should be done by resolution instead.
Clerk Taylor shared that her experience has been that the election is called by ordinance,this
provides for advertisement,alerting the public to the fact that an election is being called. She said the
Regular City Council Minutes 6
March 9,2005
polling site issue can be addressed in this ordinance.
There being no further discussion on the amendment to amend the Oath,the motion passed and
carried by a 6-0 vote.
Councilman Braynon: Not present
Vice Mayor Campbell: Yes
Councilwoman King: Yes
Councilwoman Pritchett: Yes
Councilwoman Watson: Yes
Councilman Bratton: Yes
Mayor Gibson: Yes
There being no further discussion on the ordinance as a whole,the motion to adopt passed and
carried by a 6-0 vote.
Councilman Braynon: Not present
Vice Mayor Campbell: Yes
Councilwoman King: Yes
Councilwoman Pritchett: Yes
Councilwoman Watson: Yes
Councilman Bratton: Yes
Mayor Gibson: Yes
ORDINANCE NO.2005-13-51
(2) AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI
GARDENS,FLORIDA,REPEALING CHAPTER 19 AND SECTION 334.25
OF THE MIAMI DADE COUNTY CODE OF ORDINANCES, AS MADE
APPLICABLE TO THE CITY OF MIAMI GARDENS BY VIRTUE OF
SECTION 8.3 OF THE CITY'S CHARTER;CREATING A NEW PROPERTY
MAINTENANCE ORDINANCE TO IMPOSE MORE STRINGENT
STANDARDS FOR MAINTENANCE OF PROPERTY, BUILDINGS,
STRUCTURES,WALLS,FENCES,SIGNS,PAVEMENT AND LANDSCAPE;
PROVIDING FOR DEFINITIONS; PROVIDING FOR COMPLIANCE;
PROVIDING FOR REGULATIONS FOR ABANDONED PROPERTY;
PROVIDING FOR ENFORCEMENT; PROVIDING FOR NOTICE;
PROVIDING FOR THE ABATEMENT OF CERTAIN NUISANCES;
PROVIDING FOR GENERAL PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS;
REPEALING ALL ORDINANCES IN CONFLICT; PROVIDING A
SEVERABILITY CLAUSE; PROVIDING FOR INCLUSION IN CODE;
PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. (SPONSORED BY THE CITY
MANAGER)
Manager Crew explained that the City has been addressing a lot of those Code Enforcement
issues inherited from Miami-Dade County. The City philosophy is to try and work with the property
Regular City Council Minutes 7
March 9,2005
owners to get the property into compliance.The City has had tremendous success,in that its revenue for
fines is only about 20%of what Miami-Dade County's was.
Mayor Gibson opened the floor for the public hearing. After there were no interested parties to
speak on this item,the public hearing was closed.
Moved by Councilwoman Watson,seconded by Councilman Bratton to adopt this ordinance.
Councilwoman Watson referenced page 5, line 16 (B) of the ordinance, relating to the
concealment of junk behind a fence should not be visible from ground level,and suggested the use of
another word for fence, because the fence could be a chain link fence, therefore the junk would be
visible through the fence.
Christopher Steers,Assistant to the City Manager for Business Services appeared before the
City Council to expound on this issue. He indicated that the provision Councilwoman Watson was
referring,is inexistence in the current code. This ordinance addresses a situation where junk is on the
property but it is covered by a tarp.
Councilwoman Watson referenced page 9,line 16 of the ordinance,which has a requirement of
8 inches of grass on an improved lot,and on line 43,the requirement is 12 inches on an unimproved lot,
she questioned,why the difference. She further recommended implementing an 8 inch requirement on
both.
Mr.Steers explained that height has been modified by lowering the height requirement to what
Miami-Dade County currently has. The thought process is that the unimproved lots are usually in
commercial areas. The code is written in such a way as to require property owners to maintain the lots
on a monthly basis. In addition,the commercial lots are much larger,whereas the residential lots are
small parcels.
Councilwoman Watson indicated that she understood the logic,but was only trying to make the
height requirement more unified. She further referenced page 10, Section (E) of the ordinance and
asked who would make the determination that a violation exists.
Mr. Steers said this would be the determination of the City,which is the City Manager or his
designee.
Councilwoman Watson pointed that this is mentioned in Sections E-2 and E-3, but not in
Section E-1.
Attorney Knighton Dickens opined that this item would go through the Special Master process.
Mayor Gibson commented on Councilwoman Watson's concern about the height requirement.
She shared that she is inclined to agree with staff. She opined that cutting a big unimproved lot to 12
inches is really sufficient. She also opined that 8 inches is sufficient for an improved lot,which in her
view would represent someone's lawn. She further opined that to require a commercial unimproved
Regular City Council Minutes 8
March 9,2005
lot to be kept at 8 inches is a real burden.
Councilwoman Pritchett referenced page 4, Section 6, of the ordinance,which identifies the
Miami-Dade County Police Department and questioned whether this should be the City of Miami
Gardens Police Department.
Manager Crew indicated that it is still the Miami-Dade Police Department,even though the City
contracts with the Department for police services.
Councilwoman Pritchett placed emphasis on the importance of empowering the residents and
business community of this ordinance.
Mr. Steers indicated that the City will be following the process as outlined in the Code
Enforcement Ordinance, whereby residents and commercial property owners would be given an
opportunity to correct violations before a fine is assessed.
There being no further discussion, the motion to approve passed and carried by a 6-0 vote.
Vice Mayor Campbell: Yes
Councilwoman King: Yes
Councilwoman Pritchett: Yes
Councilwoman Watson: Yes
Councilman Bratton: Yes
Councilman Braynon: Not present
Mayor Gibson: Yes
ORDINANCE NO. 2005-14-52
(3) AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI
GARDENS, FLORIDA, PROVIDING FOR "LANDLORD PERMITS";
PROVIDING FOR DEFINITIONS; PROVIDING FOR APPLICATION
PROCEDURES; PROVIDING FOR SPECIFIC GROUNDS FOR DENIAL;
PROVIDING FOR THE TERM OF LANDLORD PERMITS AND
TRANSFER; PROVIDING FOR RENEWALS OF LANDLORD PERMITS;
PROVIDING FOR DUTIES OF LANDLORDS; PROVIDING FOR DUTIES
OF THE CITY; PROVIDING FOR RIGHT OF INSPECTION; PROVIDING
FOR CIRCUMSTANCES UNDER WHICH A PERMIT MAY BE DEEMED
NULL AND VOID OR ILLEGAL; PROVIDING FOR REVOCATION
PROCEDURES PURSUANT TO WHICH A LANDLORD PERMIT MAY BE
REVOKED; PROVIDING PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS; PROVIDING
FOR ADOPTION OF REPRESENTATIONS; REPEALING ALL
ORDINANCES IN CONFLICT; PROVIDING A SEVERABILITY CLAUSE;
PROVIDING FOR INCLUSION IN CODE; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE
DATE. (SPONSORED BY THE CITY MANAGER)
Manager Crew explained that this ordinance is designed to, over a period of time, bring the
Regular City Council Minutes 9
March 9,2005
rental community up to date in terms of code compliance. There have been significant problems with
absentee landlords,as well as residential landlords who have allowed their properties to deteriorate,and
contain code violations both inside and outside the property. Some of these violations can be
dangerous to the tenants and a detriment to the community. This ordinance provides that landlords,
each year would have to obtain a certificate in order to operate and do business. As part of the
certificate process, the property would have to be inspected to ensure that all code violations are
brought up to date.
Mayor Gibson opened the floor for the public hearing.
Hugh Dodd, with a residential address of 17125 NW 19th Avenue, Miami Gardens, Florida,
appeared before the City Council to express his concerns about this item. He said that the Florida
Statutes provides regulations for the rental of property, in addition, Section 8 also provides for an
annual inspection of Section 8 Rental Properties. He said that he did not see the necessity for this
ordinance and opined there should be a stipulation that if the landlord is negligent and not taking care of
his rental property enforcement is warranted. He further opined that those landlords that are abiding by
all state and local laws should be left alone.
Leonard Coles with a residential address of 2010 NW 191"Terrace,Miami Gardens,Florida,
appeared before the City Council to voice his concerns about this item. He shared that he is the owner
of several rental properties within the City. If he is charged a permit fee,he has no choice but to pass
this expense onto his tenants. He questioned whether this ordinance was really needed when there was
a state statute, as well as a Section 8 provision that governs the maintaining of rental properties,
respectively.
Shirley Coles with a residential address of 2010 NW 191"Terrace,Miami Gardens,Florida,
appeared before the City Council to question whether this was discrimination against single family
residence.
There being no other interested parties to speak on this item,the public hearing was closed.
Moved by Vice Mayor Campbell, seconded by Councilman Bratton to adopt this ordinance.
Councilwoman Pritchett asked Attorney Knighton Dickens if she was familiar with the state
statutes that placed the restrictions/guidelines for the maintenance of rental property for both the
landlord and the tenant. She further asked that the Council be provided with a copy of this information.
Attorney Knighton Dickens indicated that there were several state statutes that deal with
landlord/tenant relationships. Chapter 83 of the Florida Statutes deals with landlord/tenant lease
agreements and their respective duties. The statutes do not deal with the property and how the property
is to be kept. Therefore it is left up to the local municipalities to do this. She placed emphasis on the
importance of everyone understanding that this is not a Section 8 ordinance,but will apply to every
tenancy within the City of Miami Gardens.
Mr. Steers, Assistant to the City Manager for Business Services, appeared before the City
Council to further comment on this item. He related that Section 8, complies with Chapter 17
Regular City Council Minutes 10
Mareb 9,2005
"Minimum Housing Standards",of the Code,however all zoning violations are the responsibility ofthe
City of Miami Gardens. He said the ordinance has to apply across the board and address all rental
properties whether that be Section 8 rental properties or not.
Councilwoman Pritchett asked if this would only apply to those landlords that were negligent in
their responsibilities.
Mr. Steers said that it would apply as far as any fines or enforcement. Everyone would be
required to get the permit. The reason for the fee is to offset the cost of administering the program.
Councilwoman Watson asked how would the City identify the renters from homeowners.
Mr. Steers said several sources would be tapped into for this purpose (e.g. motor vehicles,
homestead properties,code enforcement,etc.) He said that the process would probably take two years
to complete.
Mayor Gibson shared that she's received a lot of emails from residents complaining about
people renting out their homes. There is concern and residents want something put in place to address
this issue. She said this legislation is not targeted at any individual. She said that the ordinance is very
specific as to what rental properties were included.
Vice Mayor Campbell shared that he receives a lot of complaints from residents in his district
with regard to rental properties. Even though there are laws and procedures in place that govern the
maintenance of rental and Section 8 properties,there doesn't seem to be any enforcement of those laws.
There is an assumption that inspections of Section 8 properties are being conducted however there is no
evidence of that in his district. He conveyed his support of this ordinance.
Councilwoman Pritchett suggested amending the ordinance to provide a provision for special
consideration of those landlords who comply, as opposed to those who do not.
Manager Crew indicated that what Councilwoman Pritchett wants can be accomplished in the
fee resolution,which is on tonight's agenda.
Attorney Knighton Dickens suggested amending the fee resolution to provide for a renewal
credit if the subject property is in compliance.
Councilwoman King conveyed her support of this ordinance.
At the conclusion of this discussion,the motion to adopt this item passed and carried by a 6-0
vote.
Councilwoman King: Yes
Councilwoman Pritchett: Yes
Councilwoman Watson: Yes
Councilman Bratton: Yes
Regular City Council Minutes 11
March 9,2005
Councilman Braynon: Not present
Vice Mayor Campbell: Yes
Mayor Gibson: Yes
Q) PUBLIC COMAUNTS (10 - MINUTES)
Hugh Dodd with a residential address of 17125 NW 19`'Avenue, Miami Gardens, Florida,
appeared before the City Council to express his views about the City Manager's salary increase. He
further expressed his views about FY 02/03 Audit Report.
Sharon Frazier Stephens with a residential address of 145 NW 193rd Street, Miami, Florida,
appeared before the City Council and announced that the Miami-Dade County PTSA would be
celebrating their Founder's Day event on March 12,2005,at which time the following individuals will
be honored for their participation in the Norland Feeder Pattern and PTSA: The Honorable Betty
Ferguson,The Honorable Barbara Jordan,The Honorable Shirley Gibson and The Honorable Sharon
Pritchett. She fin-ther expressed disappointment with the number of for sale signs being erected in the
Norland area.
Leonard Coles with a residential address of 2010 NW 191"Terrace,Miami Gardens,Florida,
appeared before the City Council to get clarification as to whether the City Council had voted to
support gambling in the City of Miami Gardens at its last City Council meeting.
Mayor Gibson explained that all the City did was to pass a resolution entering into a contract
with Calder Race Track if that item passed by the electors on March 8, 2005, Calder would paid the
City 1.7 percent of its gross revenue from the Parimutuel Facility.
Albert C.Thrower with a residential address of 18510 NW 23rd Street,Miami Gardens,Florida,
appeared before the City Council to express his views about school photos,and EEOC Complaints. He
further expressed the importance of providing community hours for high school students through
sponsoring community clean-up activities.
Dr.Lester Brown with a residential address of 18801 NW 29'h Court,Miami Gardens,Florida,
to express his views about discrimination. He opined that the City did not need citizens of this City to
beat up on each other.He conveyed his support of the City Council and the way its members deliberate
on issues and come up with ordinances to best serve the entire community. Some might not understand
that government is best when it is closest to the people. He recounted a time when Miami-Dade
County ignored this area and did nothing for the residents in this community. He emphasized that we
can not beat upon each other because we are all God's children. He conveyed his support of this City
and its leadership.
(K) CONSENT AGENDA/RESOLUTION(S)
Items No.8,9,and 11 were pulled from the Consent Agenda,and are reflected as Items No. 1,2
and 3 on the Regular Agenda.
Regular City Council Minutes 12
March 9,2005
Councilwoman Pritchett explained that there are items on the consent agenda that could have
been heard during the Zoning Meeting, however that meeting which was originally scheduled for
March 2,2005,was cancelled. She asked the City Attorney to explain for the benefit of the audience
the rationale for placing those items that appear to be zoning matters on this Consent Agenda
Attomey Knighton Dickens explained that when the Council sits at the Zoning meetings,the
members don't sit as a Zoning Board but as the City Council. Like wise when the Council members sit
at these meetings, the members sit at the City Council. She shared that she along with the City
Manager made the decision that since the only items that were going to be on that Zoning Agenda were
matters dealing with plats,therefore they did not want to have to Council members attend a meeting
when they did not have to because the plat items could be considered at the regular City Council
meeting.
Manager Crew further explained that plat matters by law are not quasi-judicial,and under the
law if they meet all of the requirements, they must be approved. This is why these items have been
placed on the Consent Agenda.
Councilwoman Pritchett thanked the City Manager and City Attorney for providing the
explanation. She said this provides the public with the appropriate information so that they can fully
understand why the City Council is conducting business in such a manner.
Mayor Gibson suggested that the City Manager provide an explanation in writing of what a plat
is and why it is being considered this way.
Manager Crew encouraged everyone to attend the Community Meeting scheduled for March
16, 2005,when this along with other zoning matters will be discussed.
Manager Crew said that staff would develop a handout and provide it at the City Council
meeting. This information would be provided at the back table.
Councilwoman Watson suggested adding this information as part of the packet or as part of the
agenda provided to the audience.
RESOLUTION NO.2005-30-207
(1) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI
GARDENS,FLORIDA,APPROVING A FINAL PLAT FOR THE"MAJORCA
1SLE&FORT-OFW0 GARDEN TRACT A" GROVE AT PORTOFINO
GARDENS PROJECT FOR PROPERTY GENERALLY LOCATED AT
NORTHWEST 215TH STREET AND 14TH PLACE;PROVIDING FOR THE
ADOPTION OF REPRESENTATIONS;PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
(SPONSORED BY THE CITY MANAGER)
RESOLUTION NO.2005-31-208
(2) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI
GARDENS,FLORIDA,APPROVING A FINAL PLAT FOR THE RSA
Regular City Council Minutes 13
March 9,2005
"WALDEN GARDEN PROJECT FOR
PROPERTY GENERALLY LOCATED AT NORTHWEST 215TH STREET
AND 13TH COURT; PROVIDING FOR THE ADOPTION OF
REPRESENTATIONS;PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.(SPONSORED
BY THE CITY MANAGER)
RESOLUTION NO.2005-32-209
(3) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIANII
GARDENS,FLORIDA,APPROVING A WAIVER OF PLAT FOR PROPERTY
GENERALLY LOCATED AT NORTHWEST 159TH STREET AND 45TH
AVENUE; PROVIDING FOR THE ADOPTION OF REPRESENTATIONS;
PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. (SPONSORED BY THE CITY
MANAGER)
RESOLUTION NO.2005-33-210
(4) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI
GARDENS,FLORIDA,APPROVING A TENTATIVE PLAT FOR THE"WAIT
MART NORLAND" PROJECT FOR PROPERTY GENERALLY LOCATED
AT NORTHWEST 177TH STREET AND NORTHWEST 2ND AVENUE;
PROVIDING FOR THE ADOPTION OF REPRESENTATIONS;PROVIDING
AN EFFECTIVE DATE. (SPONSORED BY THE CITY MANAGER)
RESOLUTION NO.2005-34-211
(5) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI
GARDENS,FLORIDA,APPROVING A TENTATIVE PLAT FOR THE"WAL-
MART ON HONEY HILL" PROJECT FOR PROPERTY GENERALLY
LOCATED AT NORTHWEST 199TH STREET AND NORTHWEST 27TH
AVENUE; PROVIDING FOR THE ADOPTION OF REPRESENTATIONS;
PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. (SPONSORED BY THE CITY
MANAGER)
RESOLUTION NO.2005-35-212
(6) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI
GARDENS,FLORIDA,APPROVING A FINAL PLAT FOR THE"JORDAN'S
LANDING" PROJECT FOR PROPERTY GENERALLY LOCATED AT
NORTHWEST 37TH AVENUE AND 202ND STREET;PROVIDING FOR THE
ADOPTION OF REPRESENTATIONS;PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
(SPONSORED BY THE CITY MANAGER)
RESOLUTION NO.2005-36-213
(7) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI
GARDENS, FLORIDA, APPROVING A FINAL PLAT FOR THE "CVS AT
HONEY HILL" PROJECT FOR PROPERTY GENERALLY LOCATED AT
NORTHWEST 199TH STREET AND NORTHWEST 37TH AVENUE;
PROVIDING FOR THE ADOPTION OF REPRESENTATIONS;PROVIDING
Regular City Council Minutes 14
March 9,2005
AN EFFECTIVE DATE. (SPONSORED BY THE CITY MANAGER)
RESOLUTION NO.2005-37-214
(8) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI
GARDENS, FLORIDA, AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO
EXECUTE A PROPOSED MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING WITH
THE SOUTH DADE SOIL AND WATER CONSERVATION DISTRICT FOR
COOPERATION IN THE CONSERVATION OF NATURAL RESOURCES
AND MANAGEMENT OF PUBLIC AND PRIVATE LANDS WITHIN THE
CITY OF MIAMI GARDENS; PROVIDING FOR THE ADOPTION OF
REPRESENTATIONS;PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.(SPONSORED
BY THE CITY MANAGER)
RESOLUTION NO.2005-38-215
(9) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI
GARDENS, FLORIDA, AWARDING A BID TO CONTRACT
CONNECTIONS,INC,IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED$220,950.00 FOR
THE PURCHASE OF BUS BENCHES AND TRASH RECEPTACLES;
PROVIDING FOR THE CITY MANAGER TO ISSUE PURCHASE ORDERS;
PROVIDING FOR THE ADOPTION OF REPRESENTATION;PROVIDING
AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
Moved by Councilwoman Watson,seconded by Councilman Bratton to approve the Consent
Agenda. Motion passed and carried by a 5-0 vote.
Councilwoman Pritchett: Yes
Councilwoman Watson: Yes
Councilman Bratton: Yes
Councilman Braynon: Not present
Vice Mayor Campbell: Out of room
Councilwoman King: Yes
Mayor Gibson: Yes
W RESOLUTIONS)
RESOLUTION NO. 2005-39-216
(1) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI
GARDENS, FLORIDA, AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO
INCREASE THE NUMBER OF CITY EMPLOYEES;PROVIDING FOR THE
ADOPTION OF REPRESENTATIONS;PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
(SPONSORED BY THE CITY MANAGER).
Manager Crew recounted that when the budget was prepared for FY 04/05,one of the things he
kept emphasizing was that the City had very little experience as to how many people were needed to
run the City. His philosophy was to hire as few as possible and if more were needed to bring the
Regular City Council Minutes 15
March 9,2005
matter before the City Council for approval. The City received grant funding from Miami-Dade
County to enhance the Code Enforcement Department. In addition,the City just adopted a Landlord
Permit Certificate Program,which requires additional staffing. The grant funding will take care of the
additional personnel needed for the Code Enforcement Department for the remainder of this fiscal year.
For that purpose,it is recommended that two additional Code Enforcement Officers be hired,as well
as Code Enforcement Clerk. Within a five month period the City has already collected 80% of its
budget for the Building Department,which reflects the tremendous amount of permitting activity. The
City entered into contracts with two firms to provide building permit inspection service however,that
has not been to the City's satisfaction because the inspectors are not able to inspect the sites as quickly
as the City would like for it to be done. Therefore,the City is proposing to bring on a full time building
inspector. The City would be able to pay an in-house person approximately half of what is being paid
to the contracting firms.
Manager Crew further related that the Electrical Inspector position should be removed and
replaced with an MIS (Computer Technician)position. The City is now to a point where it can no
longer handle the computer network without having someone on staff. The City is currently contracting
this service out. This position was funded in FY 04/05 budget as a part-time position,however since
the position was never filled,there is sufficient funding to cover a full time position for the remainder
of this fiscal year.
Manager Crew indicated that an additional Permit Clerk is also needed in the Building
Department. He said the amount of work with the permitting process is overwhelming.
Manager Crew indicated that the previous contractor for the School Crossing Guard services,
ran the program with a director and five part-time supervisors. The City has managed to run the
program with two part-time supervisors. However,there is no backup for the director. This is a critical
position and an important backup in case the director is sick or otherwise unavailable to be in the field.
In addition,it is important that the director spends more time at the schools to provide safety lessons on
where and how to cross the street. Funds are available for this full-time position.
Manager Crew indicated that October 1, 2005, is the target date to take over the Parks and
Recreation Program. In order to do this staffhas to be brought on board early. There is a lot of work to
be done. A great portion of the programs being provided in the parks by Cool Kids Learn,Inc.,is from
the Children's Trust,which the City is not eligible for. It is the City's intent to contract with Cool Kids
Learn in order for this organization to continue providing some of the programming. In addition,there
are no sport programs for girls currently being offered at any of the parks. It is critical important that
programs are offered. Implementing programming for girls will be one of the initiatives the City's
Parks and Recreation Department will handle,therefore it is critical to get staff on board.
Manager Crew addressed the Grant Administration position and said that it is much easier to get
grants than it is to administer them. If the grant is not administered properly it is unlikely that that
program would be funded again. Currently the City has no one on board to take care of this process in
addition this individual would act as the City's Contract Administrator.
Manager Crew addressed the positions being requested for the Public Works Department and
Regular City Council Minutes 16
March 9,2005
said this is an area where the City had very little knowledge of how many employees were needed.The
City currently has two crews,this would staff an additional crew.
Manager Crew asked that the resolution be amended to add the additional staffing required.
Moved by Councilwoman Watson,seconded by Councilman Bratton to amend the ordinance to
add the additional staffing and to change the Electrical Inspector position to that of MIS (computer
technician).
There being no further discussion on the amendment, the motion passed and carried by a 5-0
vote.
Councilwoman Watson: Yes
Councilman Bratton: Yes
Councilman Braynon: Not present
Councilwoman King: Yes
Councilwoman Pritchett: Yes
Mayor Gibson: Out of room
Vice Mayor Campbell: Yes
Moved by Councilwoman Watson, seconded by Councilman Bratton to approve this item.
Councilwoman Watson inquired as to whether it would be feasible to assign a building
inspector to the major development projects slated to come on line in the future.
Manager Crew shared that one of the development has proposed paying for an inspector just for
their development this individual would be an employee of the City hired specifically for that project.
He indicated that he might be coming back to the City Council with this recommendation.
Councilman Bratton questioned whether that individual hired as inspector for a specific project
would no longer be employed with the City once the project was completed.
Manager Crew indicated that the project in question will not be completed for three to four
years.
Mayor Gibson referenced the building inspector position and expressed concern with bringing
on additional staff and the possibility of not having sufficient funds to maintain those positions. She
said that in contractual situations, the upfront cost may be higher but the obligation is different.
Manager Crew indicated that even with the two firms the City currently is contracting with,the
inspections are not being done on a timely basis.
Mayor Gibson said that it was important to note that the revenue received by the City's Building
Department has surpassed those figures provided to the City by Miami-Dade County,and as such has
funded 80%of the anticipated revenue for FY 04/05.
Regular City Council Minutes 17
March 9,2005
Councilwoman Pritchett indicated that this is the type of information that should be provided to
the community through the Miami Gardens Tribune and other printed media.
At the conclusion of this discussion, the motion to approve this item passed by a 6-0 vote.
Councilwoman Watson: Yes
Councilman Bratton: Yes
Councilman Braynon: Yes
Vice Mayor Campbell: Yes
Councilwoman King: Yes
Councilwoman Pritchett: Yes
Mayor Gibson: Yes
RESOLUTION NO. 2005-40-217
(2) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI
GARDENS, FLORIDA, URGING THE MIAMI-DADE LEGISLATIVE
DELEGATION TO PROMOTE LEGISLATION FOR THE 2005
LEGISLATIVE SESSION WHEREBY THE CALCULATION OF THE
DISTRICT COST DIFFERENTIAL FOR THE MIAMI-DADE COUNTY
SCHOOL BOARD BE FROZEN UNTIL A STUDY CAN BE COMMISSIONED
BY AN UNBIASED, QUALIFIED THIRD PARTY TO REVIEW THE
VALIDITY OF THE DISTRICT COST DIFFERENTIAL AND TO
RECOMMEND A MORE EQUITABLE CALCULATION;DIRECTIONS TO
THE CITY CLERK; PROVIDING FOR THE ADOPTION OF
REPRESENTATIONS;PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.(SPONSORED
BY THE CITY MANAGER)
Councilwoman Pritchett explained that she had pulled this item from the Consent Agenda in
order to get some clarification as to the correct figure for year 3. She indicated that the resolution
indicates the figure to be 112 Million, and the District Cost Update provided by Miami-Dade County
provided indicated that the figure is 102 million. She asked which figure was correct.
Manager Crew recommended the 102 million figure provided in the District Cost Update.
Councilwoman Pritchett referenced page 2,line 22 of the resolution and questioned whether the
language"educational programs to meet the diverse needs of its clients",or should the word clients be
changed to students.
Mayor Gibson shared that this resolution wording was provided to the City by Miami-Dade
County and opined that perhaps there is a reason for using the word"clients"instead of"students".
Attorney Knighton Dickens said that she would make the change from 112 million to 102
million as a scrivener's error.
Regular City Council Minutes 18
March 9,2005
Moved by Councilwoman Pritchett, seconded by Councilwoman Watson to adopt this
resolution.
There being no further discussion,the motion passed and carried by a 6-0 vote.
Councilman Braynon: Not present
Councilman Bratton: Yes
Vice Mayor Campbell: Yes
Councilwoman King: Yes
Councilwoman Pritchett: Yes
Councilwoman Watson: Yes
Mayor Gibson: Yes
RESOLUTION NO. 200541-218
(3) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI
GARDENS,FLORIDA,ESTABLISHING THE FEES FOR THE ISSUANCE OF
LANDLORD PERMITS; PROVIDING FOR THE ADOPTION OF
REPRESENTATIONS;PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. (SPONSORED
BY THE CITY MANAGER)
Manager Crew shared that this is the second part as associated with the Landlord Permit
Certificate ordinance adopted earlier. The Landlord Permit fee for a multi-family unit the fee is$50.00
for the first unit and$25.00 for each additional unit. The fee for single family rental property is$60.00
annually.
Attorney Knighton Dickens articulated an amendment to this resolution to address the concerns
raised by Councilwoman Pritchett to include the following language "the landlord shall be given a
$15.00 renewal credit against the first unit fee".
Manager Crew indicated that the fee would be reduced to$45.00 for the subsequent years. For
multiple units,the fee would be reduced to $35.00 for the first unit for subsequent years.
Moved by Councilwoman Pritchett, seconded by Councilwoman Watson to adopt this
resolution.
Councilwoman Pritchett asked for clarification and asked how the credit would work if an
individual owned and rented out several duplex rental units.
Manager Crew explained that the landlord would get a credit on each one of the buildings. He
said this credit is very similar to the renewal credit given for the occupational license renewals. This
would be more valuable to the single family and duplex rental renewals than the big apartment complex
renewals.
Councilwoman Pritchett commented that this Council,along with staffis always trying to work
for the good of all the residents of the City of Miami Gardens.She conveyed to Pastor Coles,and Mr.
Regular City Council Minutes 19
March 9,2005
Dodd that the Council and staff has made the effort to do just that this event. She related that she was
not sure how the Council will vote on the amendment, but at least they always wanted to make the
effort to be a responsive government for all of the residents within this City. She conveyed her hopes
that Pastor Coles and Mr. Dodd understood this.
Moved by Councilwoman Pritchett, seconded by Councilwoman Watson to amend the
resolution as prescribed by Attorney Knighton,as it related to the renewal credit. This motion passed
and carried by a 6-0 vote.
The motion to approve the resolution as a whole,passed and carried by a 6-0 vote.
Councilman Braynon: Not present
Councilman Bratton: Yes
Vice Mayor Campbell: Yes
Councilwoman King: Yes
Councilwoman Pritchett: Yes
Councilwoman Watson: Yes
Mayor Gibson: Yes
RESOLUTION NO.200542-219
(4) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI
GARDENS, FLORIDA,AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR AND CITY CLERK
TO EXECUTE AND ATTEST, RESPECTIVELY, THAT CERTAIN STATE
ROAD 7 PARTNERSHIP AGREEMENT WITH THE STEERING
COMMITTEE OF THE STATE ROAD 7/U.S. 441 COLLABORATIVE
("COLLABORATIVE"); NOMINATING A DELEGATE AND AN
ALTERNATE DELEGATE TO PARTICIPATE IN THE STEERING
COMMITTEE,A COPY OF WHICH IS ATTACHED HERETO AS EXHIBIT
A;PROVIDING FOR INSTRUCTIONS TO THE CITY CLERK;PROVIDING
FOR THE ADOPTION OF REPRESENTATIONS; PROVIDING AN
EFFECTIVE DATE:(SPONSORED BY THE CITY MANAGER)
Manager Crew explained that Broward County has been working extensively with the planning
and future planning of the 441 Corridor. The City was told approximately one month prior that it
would be the first non-Broward County municipal invited to join the Collaborative. Broward County
has done a lot of preliminary work that the City will not have to repeat. This will also enable the City
to become part of Broward County's grant network. He recommended appointing one Council
member to serve on this Committee,with a staff person appointed the alternate position to serve when
the Council member can not attend meetings.
Moved by Councilwoman Watson, seconded by Councilman Bratton to approve this item.
Mayor Gibson nominated Councilwoman Watson to serve on this Committee,and asked the
City Manager to designate a staffperson to serve as an alternate. She asked whether another resolution
would have to be adopted if for some reason neither person appointed by this resolution was able to
Regular City Council Minutes 20
March 9,2005
serve.
Attorney Knighton Dickens indicated that another resolution would need to be adopted.
Manager Crew appointed Bhairvi Pandya, Senior Planner with the Development Services
Department as Alternate Delegate.
Councilwoman Watson thanked Mayor Gibson for the nomination. She shared that she has
already been working with the Broward County Bridge Program for approximately one and a half years,
which is this program. She related that she was appointed at that time by County Commissioner Betty
Ferguson to represent this Corridor in this planning process.
Moved by Vice Mayor Campbell,seconded by Councilman Bratton to amend the resolution to
insert the name of Barbara Watson, as the member to the Collaborative and Bhairvi Pandya, as the
alternate. The motion to amend passed by a 6-0 vote.
Vice Mayor Campbell: Yes
Councilwoman King: Yes
Councilwoman Pritchett: Yes
Councilwoman Watson: Yes
Councilman Bratton: Yes
Councilman Braynon: Not present
Mayor Gibson: Yes
There being no further discussion on the resolution as a whole,the motion,passed and carried
by a 6-0 vote.
Vice Mayor Campbell: Yes
Councilwoman King: Yes
Councilwoman Pritchett: Yes
Councilwoman Watson: Yes
Councilman Bratton: Yes
Councilman Braynon: Not present
Mayor Gibson: Yes
Please note that Councilwoman King stopped participating telephonically at 11:10 p.m.
RESOLUTION NO. 2005-43-220
(5) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI
GARDENS,FLORIDA,REQUESTING THAT THE MIAMI-DADE BOARD
OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OPPOSE ANY EXTENSION TO THE
URBAN DEVELOPMENT BOUNDARY TO ENCOURAGE INFILL
DEVELOPMENT AND ADHERENCE TO THE COUNTY ADOPTED,
INCLUDING THE ADOPTED 2003 EVALUATION AND APPRAISAL
REPORT; PROVIDING FOR DIRECTIONS TO THE CITY CLERK;
Regular City Council Minutes 21
March 9,2005
PROVIDING FOR THE ADOPTION OF REPRESENTATIONS;PROVIDING
AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
Mayor Gibson indicated that this is one of those resolutions where the City has been asked to
join other municipalities in being supportive of. She placed emphasis on the importance of having
enough resources for public schools and the infrastructure. This resolution is in support of stopping
encroachment in to the Everglades. She opined that it is a bad idea to keep moving into the Everglades
with development.
Mayor Gibson passed the gavel to Vice Mayor Campbell in order to move this item for
approval this motion was seconded by Councilman Bratton.
Councilwoman Pritchett conveyed her support of this item. She shared that she had an
opportunity to tour the Everglades and saw the adverse affects of encroaching development into the
wetlands. She related this is a position this City would be wise to take and support.
Vice Mayor Campbell conveyed his support of this item.
Councilwoman Watson conveyed her support of this legislation.
There being no further discussion,the motion passed and carried by a 5-0 vote.
Councilwoman King: Not present
Councilwoman Pritchett: Yes
Councilwoman Watson: Yes
Councilman Bratton: Yes
Councilman Braynon: Not present
Vice Mayor Campbell: Yes
Mayor Gibson: Yes
Vice Mayor Campbell relinquished the gavel to Mayor Gibson.
(M) REPORTS OF CITY MANAGER AND CITY ATTORNEY.
No report.
(N) REPORTS OF MAYOR AND COUNCIL MEMBERS.
Mayor Gibson, on behalf of the City Council and staff presented Attorney Knighton Dickens
with a Gift Card on the occasion of her recent marriage.
Councilwoman Pritchett shared that during a seminar on How To Take Your Hometown
Message to Tallahassee, which was attended by Mayor Gibson, Councilwoman Watson and myself.
One of the pointers given was to invite the elected officials that represented this area to the City's
events. She shared that one of the area representatives was not aware of the City's Community Day and
would have been in attendance if they had known. She asked that staff provided information of
upcoming meetings and community events to all the elected officials that represent this area.
Regular City Council Minutes 22
March 9,2005
Councilwoman Pritchett shared that she met an individual at one of the community meetings
who wanted to know if the City was ADA Compliant. She questioned whether this was stated on any
of the City's advertisements or literature.
Clerk Taylor said this information is on the Agenda as well as published notices. Anyone
requesting assistance must notify the City Clerk within 48 hours of the event.
Councilwoman Pritchett asked that this information be placed on the City's website as well.
Mayor Gibson asked Mr. McHugh to place this information on the website.
Mr. Marder, the City's Development Services Director appeared before the City Council to
announce that the first Community Meeting on the Development Master Plan would be held on
Wednesday, March 16, 2005, at 7:00 p.m.,he invited everyone to attend.
(0) REQUESTS, PETITIONS & OTHER COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE
PUBLIC.
(P) ADJOURNMENT.
There being no further business to come before this Body, and upon being duly moved by
Councilman Bratton and seconded by Vice Mayor Campbell,the meeting adjourned at 11:21 p.m.
I z A,,Z4�
leib n, Mayor
Attest:
Ronetta Taylor, CMC, i Clerk
Regular City Council Minutes 23
March 9,2005