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HomeMy WebLinkAbout09.22.2010 Special Meeting CITY OF MIAMI GARDENS SPECIAL CITY COUNCIL Minutes SEPTEMBER 22, 2010 (A) CALL TO ORDER/ROLL CALL The City Council for the City of Miami Gardens, Florida, met in Special Session on Wednesday, September 22, 2010, beginning at 6:15 p.m., in the City Council Chambers 1515 NW 167'' Street,Miami Gardens,Florida. The following members of the City Council were present: Mayor Shirley Gibson,Vice Mayor Aaron Campbell Jr.,and Council members Lisa C.Davis,Andre Williams,Felicia Robinson,Sharon Pritchett and Oliver G. Gilbert III. Also in attendance were: City Manager Dr.Danny O. Crew,City Attorney Sonja K. Dickens and City Clerk Ronetta Taylor. (B) INVOCATION Invocation delivered by Councilman Gilbert. (C) PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Recited in unison. Mayor Gibson announced this is the second of two public hearings for the adoption of the millage rate and budget for the City of Miami Gardens for Fiscal Year 2010-2011. She asked the City Clerk to read the resolution title into the record. (D) RESOLUTION(S)/PUBLIC HEARING RESOLUTION NO. 2010-153-1335 D-1) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF MIAMI GARDENS,FLORIDA, ADOPTING A FINAL MILLAGE RATE AT A PUBLIC HEARING, FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCING OCTOBER 1, 2010, THROUGH SEPTEMBER 30, 2011; ESTABLISHING THE ROLLBACK RATE;PROVIDING FOR DIRECTIONS TO THE CITY CLERK; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. (SPONSORED BY THE CITY MANAGER) The title of this item was read into the record by the City Clerk. Mayor Gibson announced the proposed final millage rate for the City for fiscal year 2010/2011 is 6.2728, which is same amount as the roll back rate. Manager Crew discussed the percentage increase in the millage from the roll back rate. He said during this past year the City experienced at 17%decrease in property values. He explained the rollback rate, which would allow the City to bring in the same amount of this fiscal year, as was Budget Minutes - September 22, 2010 Page 1 received last fiscal year. A millage of 6.2728 would bring in the same amount this year as last year. This according to the State of Florida is not considered a tax increase. With this millage rate some property owners will see a slight increase and some with see a slight decrease in their property taxes. Mayor Gibson opened the floor for this public hearing. Sharon Frazier Stephens, 145 NE 193`d Street,Miami Gardens,Florida,appeared before the City Council. She asked for clarification whether public comments were being considered at this time for the budget. Mayor Gibson clarified this is a public hearing on the Millage rate. Ms.Frazier-Stephens stated that she wished to comment on the actual budget as opposed to the millage. After there were no further comments,the public hearing was closed. Motion offered by Councilman Gilbert,seconded by Councilwoman Robinson to adopt the millage rate. A motion was offered by Councilman Gilbert, seconded by Councilwoman Davis to defer this item until after discussion of the budget ordinance. The motion to defer passed and carried by a 7-0 voice vote. Once the budget item was discussed,a motion was offered by Councilman Gilbert,seconded by Vice Mayor Campbell to revisit the millage resolution. The motion to revisit this item passed and carried by a 7-0. Motion offered by Vice Mayor Campbell to leave the millage rate at 5.3734. Motion died for lack of a second. Councilman Williams asked what would this millage rate do for the budget. Manager Crew in response to Councilman Williams' inquiry said it would mean laying off 60-70 employees;closing down all of the parks and pools except for the Recreation Center;cutting back on School Crossing Guards. Councilwoman Robinson asked what does this equate to in actual dollars. Manager Crew said an additional 1.4 Million dollars from the budget. Councilwoman Pritchett asked if this includes the Special Pay. Budget Minutes September 22, 2010 Page 2 Manager Crew said it does not include the Special Pay because much of that is required by law. This item being revisited,with no further discussion,a motion was offered by Councilman Gilbert, seconded by Councilwoman Robin to adopt a final millage rate of 5.7141 (no COLA or Merit increases for one year,decrease in car allowances and cell phones). This motion passed and carried by a 4-3 vote. Vice Mayor Campbell: No Councilwoman Davis: Yes Councilman Gilbert: Yes Councilwoman Pritchett: No Councilwoman Robinson: Yes Councilman Williams: No Mayor Gibson: Yes With the adoption of the millage rate,a motion was offered by Councilman Gilbert,seconded by Councilwoman Davis to go back to the budget ordinance, which had been deferred until the millage rate was adopted. The motion to bring back the budget item passed and carried by a 7-0 voice vote. (E) ORDINANCE(S) FOR SECOND READING AND PUBLIC HEARING: ORDINANCE NO.2010-24-232 E-1) AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI GARDENS,FLORIDA,APPROVING AND ADOPTING THE CITY'S BUDGET FOR THE 2010-2011 FISCAL YEAR;PROVIDING FOR THE EXPENDITURE OF FUNDS; AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO TAKE CERTAIN ACTIONS; PROVIDING FOR CARRYOVER OF FUNDS; PROVIDING A SURCHARGE AND FEE INCREASE FOR PERMITS; PROVIDING FOR INTERFUND TRANSFERS; PROVIDING FOR AUTOMATIC AMENDMENT; PROVIDING FOR ISSUANCE OF TAX ANTICIPATION BOND; PROVIDING FOR ADOPTION OF REPRESENTATIONS; REPEALING ALL ORDINANCES IN CONFLICT; PROVIDING A SEVERABILITY CLAUSE; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. (SPONSORED BY THE CITY MANAGER) (1" Reading — September 8,2010) Once the millage resolution was deferred,the title of this item as read into the record by the City Clerk. Manager Crew explained the decrease in the budgetary amount,if the lesser proposed millage rate is approved. He said in order to balance the budget at the current millage rate approximately 4 Million Dollars of expenditures were eliminated from the budget. That included 27 positions,this Budget Minutes September 22, 2010 Page 3 year and another 28 positions next year. There is no money in this budget for sidewalks or street paving. He said at the last Council meeting he was directed to take another look at the budget. He provided the Council with a proposal that would take the millage rate down to 5.9676,resulting in over a million dollars in additional cuts. He then handed out to the Council with a new proposal, which reduced the proposed millage from 6.2728 to 5.7141, which would decrease the budget by $1,972,643 resulting in the following: Phase 1 Revenue(fees increase)Off Duty Police from$39.00 to$44.00 for a total in revenue of$82,000;Minor Police Fees for an increase of$15,000;Parks and Recreation Fees for an increase of$269,643; Code Enforcement Fees for an increase of$100.00; Planning and Zoning Fees for an increase of$50,000: Phase II—expenditures: Cap cell phone at $600.00 for a savings of$38,000;20%reduction in car allowance for a savings of$11,000;eliminate merit pay for one year—all employees for a savings of$1.005,000;retain freeze on 3 police positions for savings of$225,000;new freeze on three positions of$100,000;retain freeze on one HR position for a savings of$77,000; resulting in a proposed millage rate of 5.7991. Manager Crew shared the City of Miami Gardens has approximately 60 individuals in the administrative area of the Miami Gardens government. In comparison five cities in like size,average 100 people with what the City of Miami Gardens has 60 people doing. Cities half the size of Miami Gardens average 63 administrative staff members to the City of Miami Gardens' 60. He said the City of Miami Gardens employees do the work of two people. He further shared this is the hardest working group of individuals he has worked with in his 38 years of public service. Mayor Gibson opened the floor for this public hearing. Sharon Frazier-Stephens, 145 NE 193`d Street, Miami, Florida, appeared before the City Council and stated that although she is not a resident of Miami Gardens,she is speaking on behalf of four family members who do own property within the City. She emphasized that other governmental entities are cutting back during these tough economic times. She suggested that administrative staff take a pay cut. Amy Coleman, 2841 NW 212th Street, Miami Gardens, Florida, appeared before the City Council to ask about the proposed renovations for Buccaneer Park Building,and the funds set aside for this purpose. Manager Crew in response to Ms. Coleman's inquiry shared a developer(David Paul)with property located on NW 27th Avenue was supposed to provide funding for the Buccaneer Park Building renovations. However, that company went Bankrupt; therefore the City never got the money for the renovations. Mayor Gibson expounded on this matter by sharing there were numerous discussion with the Association in this area and Mr.Paul about his donation to the Buccaneer Park Building renovations. She said that development was never built therefore the money promised did not come forth. Carletha Robinson,3240 NW 214th Street,Miami Gardens,Florida,appeared before the City Council to express concern with the new proposal the Parks and Recreation Department has Budget Minutes September 22, 2010 Page 4 presented for the Senior Citizen Program. She shared that the seniors were told by the Parks and Recreation Department staff that if they did not accept this new proposal there would not be a program. She said the breakfast and time at the Community Center can be taken away. She emphasized the importance of not taking away their meeting space. Councilman Williams asked whether each senior group will be able to continue meeting in their respective meeting locations. Manager Crew in response to Councilman Williams' inquiry replied,"Yes". Daniel Rosemond,Assistant City Manager appeared before the City Council to expound on the proposed changes to the Senior Citizen Program. He said the changes basically consolidate the two primary services(meal and field trips). Currently the Parks and Recreation Department provides breakfast and field trips at five individual parks,at a loss of approximately$54,000 annually. This proposal provides that the programming would be offered on a tiered basis of$5.00;$15.00;$25.00 per month,depending on the services offered. The$25.00 per month program provides for weekly breakfast, workshops and full access to the Community Center. Councilwoman Pritchett said there is a memorandum floating around,which is different than what Mr. Rosemond just explained. She asked why is there a different memorandum being distributed and why was that difference not explained to the seniors. Mr. Rosemond said he would like to see the memorandum before he responds to that question. He further shared that he attended several meetings with the various club presidents. Furthermore a meeting with all club presidents was held to address their concerns (bus transportation) and suggestions. After reviewing the memorandum mentioned by the seniors he stated this was the original draft proposal He said that memorandum was revised after staff met with the various club presidents. He said one of the main issues the club presidents articulated to staff was their desire to maintain their independence. They did not want to have a consolidated senior program. Councilwoman Pritchett opined staff should do a better job of sharing information to eliminate misunderstandings. Mr.Rosemond in response to Councilwoman Pritchett's comments,agreed. He shared that staff thought that it had attempted to do exactly that. However,when a proposal is being discussed, staff does not have the right to say that this is what it is going to be until Council has approved it as part of the budget. Councilwoman Pritchett shared the proposal could have language added indicating this is a proposal and that nothing is final until the Council has approved it. Francis Ragoo, 57 NE 187th Street, Miami Gardens, Florida, appeared before the City Council in support of keeping Jazz in the Gardens in the budget. He shared this event brings visitors Budget Minutes September 22, 2010 Page 5 from throughout the United States to the City of Miami Gardens. Yolanda Henry,8639 Longaare Drive,Miramar,Florida,appeared before the City Council in support of Jazz in the Gardens. She shared that she as well as family members have been attending this event for several years now. Benjamin Essien,4715 NW 157th Street,Miami Gardens,Florida,appeared before the City Council in opposition to the rollback rate. He expressed concern for those individuals on fixed income and the added burden this would generate. He further opined that Miami Gardens' employees are the highest paid in Miami-Dade County, which should not be for a poor city. He stated the City of Miami cut salaries by ten percent and asked the Council to consider salary cuts as well. He further shared that the City of Miami does not have a deputy city manager position. Vera White, 2241 NW 191St Terrace, Miami Gardens, Florida, appeared before the City Council to discuss the senior citizen program. She said today's senior citizens enjoy lifestyles that lets them get out and have fun. Citizens should have a place to go during the daytime hours that will provide them with quality leisure activities. She said seniors should be able to participate in these activities free or at a minimum charge. She said the seniors will not accept a proposal that will make them less happy or make them less active because of the budget. She asked the Council to not take away what the seniors already have to provide less. Elizabeth Wells, 2210 NW 175th Street, Miami Gardens,Florida, appeared before the City Council and stated the residents and seniors of Miami Gardens should have a special rate. The proposal given to the senior is astronomical. She further asked whether the Elderly Affairs Advisory Committee is active and receiving any kind of grants. She further what happens with the funds the seniors currently contributes. David Williams Jr., 17640 NW 18th Avenue,Miami Gardens,Florida, appeared before the City Council to speak on behalf of the Miami Gardens/Opa-locka Youth Violence Coalition. He provided information the Council on what the Coalition has done over the past two and a half years. Unfortunately funding for this organization sunsets on October 31,2010. He asked the Council to consider absorbing this Coalition as part of the City of Miami Gardens. He said the information provide represents lives saved as well as families that have been brought together. Councilwoman Pritchett asked how much money has the Children's Trust provided to the City of Miami Gardens for this program. Mr.Williams in response to Councilwoman Pritchett's question said over a period of two and a half years The Children's Trust has provided approximately 1.7 Million Dollars to the City of Miami Gardens. Councilwoman Pritchett for clarification purposes asked whether the Children's Trust is no longer funding this program, and if so,why. Budget Minutes September 22, 2010 Page 6 Mr.Williams said the Children's Trust is taking a different direction on how it looks at youth violence; therefore this program was not funded. He said the Children's Trust has changed its definition on how it wants these programs to function. The biggest obstacle for the Coalition is that it has been without a director for approximately one year. Councilwoman Pritchett asked whether this was the same program that was placed on the percentage improvement plan by the Children's Trust. Mr. Williams in response to Councilwoman Pritchett's question replied. "Yes it was." He said on the other hand there are several pending grant opportunities that could fund this program. He further shared that he would be making the same presentation to the City of Opa-locka in an effort to assist with the funding. Councilwoman Pritchett asked Mr. Williams how much was he asking for. Mr. Williams said the goal is to keep the three staff people on board or the director,who is really the driving force behind the program Councilwoman Pritchett asked what is the salary of the director. Mr. Williams said approximately$80,000; this also includes benefits. Mayor Gibson thanked Mr. Williams for being a spokes person for our children. She emphasized the importance of investing in our youth. Patricia Wright, 1221 NW 179th Street, Miami Gardens, Florida, appeared before the City Council to express concern with the true debt of this City. She referenced a copy of last year's Standard and Poors rating for the City,which indicate the City had 180.1 Million Dollars in overall net debt. She asked about the$55 Million Dollars for the LEED Building(City Hall),and whether it will be included in the total net debt. She referenced the preliminary budget message provided by the City Manager indicates the operating for the debt service $644,440.00. Also stated in that budget message the City Manager indicated this is the worst year he had expected on this impact. She asked what corrective measures were being considered to correct this impact. She said the City Manager has indicated that the City will have forty years of debt,and asked why should we leave such a debt for our children and grandchildren to pay. Councilwoman Pritchett asked whether the 55 Million Dollars for the LEED Building was a part of the 180.1 Million Dollar net debt. Manager Crew said he had no idea where that 180.1 Million Dollar amount came from. He shared the City total net debt as of September 30,2010 is 46 Million Dollars. The overall total net debt is 53 Million Dollars. Councilman Gilbert asked if the City had 180.1 Million Dollars in net debt would it be possible to have an"A"rating. Budget Minutes September 22, 2010 Page 7 Manager Crew in response to Councilman Gilbert's question said nobody would loan the City any money if it had that much net debt. Councilwoman Pritchett expressed concern with the fact that Standard and Poors printed that amount in its finding. She opined they are sharing that information with entities that could potentially loan this City money. She said if this information is not accurate why has it not been corrected. Councilman Williams said the fact that Standard and Poors would issue a report with erroneous information troubles him. He suggested having the independent auditor do an audit. Manager Crew in response to Councilman Williams' suggested said the City's net debt is a part of the auditor's report. Councilman Williams asked whether the auditor can provide a written report explaining the exact amount of the City's net debt at this time. Mayor Gibson asked the City Manager to generate a letter to Standard and Poors with regard to the information being shared with others, and request an official letter back. Councilman Williams said that is not good enough because he did not know if Standard and Poors information was accurate. He said he still wanted to hear from the Auditing firm. He said he wanted an explanation of the City's debt at this point and did not want to rely on Standard and Poors. Mayor Gibson said the City certainly needs to generate a letter to Standard and Poors because apparently this is their information. She said that needs to be cleared up, no matter what is done internally. She placed emphasis on the fact that other entities do make mistakes. She said the number provided in the Standard and Poors document is more than the City's annual budget. The City cannot be in more debt than its budget. George Butler Jr. III, 17430 NW 37th Court, Miami Gardens, Florida, appeared before the City Council to ask why should the seniors have to pay to participate in the Parks and Recreation Program. He asked the Council to take under consideration the fact that the seniors look forward to meeting once a week with fellow seniors. Mayor Gibson asked how much was the bond that was floated to purchase and renovate the facilities on NW 12th Avenue and 183rd Street for Senior Citizen programming. Manager Crew in response to Mayor Gibson's question said 4 Million Dollars. Denise White, 1210 NW 179th Place,Miami Gardens,Florida,appeared by the City Council. She stated the budget is a vehicle that tells your money what to do rather than where it went each month. But in retrospect we do not really know where our money is being spent. There is a Budget Minutes September 22, 2010 Page 8 transparency with the City of Miami Gardens' budget. It should be itemized line by line. She asked is that too much to ask for? The City Manager is paid a hefty salary to do his job. As residents they just want to be treated fairly. She said in order not to lay off employees,there should be no special pay,and the higher paid employees should take a 5 percent cut,no bonuses and all merits should be frozen. She said there should be no tax increases. The city has taxed the residents every year since its inception,2003. She asked how much was allocated to the seniors program before the funds were transferred to the parks. Mayor Gibson in response to Ms. White's inquiry about funding for senior program said nothing has changed the program has always been under the parks. Ms. White asked Councilwoman Pritchett why she votes no on the Consent Agenda. Councilwoman Pritchett in response to Ms.White's question said the reason she votes no on the Consent Agenda is because every single time the residents tax dollars are put on the consent agenda where she don't have the opportunity to pull them because she cannot get a second to have a discussion about these tax dollars, before the decision is made, she votes no. She said there have been many instances where she has tried to pull items from the Consent Agenda for discussion,but could not get a second. She thanked Councilmen Gilbert and Williams because at times they have given her a second,which she is very appreciative of. When there is no opportunity to discuss items where the tax payers' money is involved,she has an issue. She said she will continue to have issues with that because there should be an explanation about how everyone's tax dollars are being spent. Janice R. Isley, 1740 NW 193`d Street, Miami Gardens, Florida, appeared before the City Council and placed emphasis on the important role the seniors played and continues to play in the growth and development of this City. She shared that she is concern about leaving the seniors out and also concerned with the debt of the City. She expressed concern with the City's long term debt, which her grandchildren will inherit. She said employees merit increases should be frozen. She further said the people who make money off of Jazz in the Gardens come into the City for the event and then leave with what they have earned from the event. She said there is a lot of fat in this budget and urged the Council to vote no. Zurie White, 2241 NW 191St Terrace, Miami Gardens, Florida, appeared before the City Council applaud the City Manager's efforts in trying to balance the budget. She suggested reviewing the budget again and then speaking with the seniors again and actually listen to what they have to say. Vice Mayor Campbell said he did not see anything in the budget with regard to cutting programs for the seniors. He said there are some park fees that will be increase because of the programming in the park,which has to be paid for. The City can also raise the tax rate to pay for the parks. He said he heard discussion tonight about debt services, and opined debt is necessary. The City would not be able function if it did not have debt. The City cannot afford to purchase 150 police cars with cash money. He said individuals have borrowed money to buy their home. This is exactly what the City did. You have to borrow money to do business. The cost is speared out over a Budget Minutes September 22, 2010 Page 9 number of years. Janice Coakley, 19681 NW 33`d Avenue,Miami Gardens,Florida,appeared before the City Council and commented the City Manager said he has to work with less;all cities are working with less. She said she too would like to get a fifty percent membership discount at the Betty T Ferguson Community Center Complex,just like the employees. She opined the City Manager does not listen to the residents and conveyed her hope that the Council members would. She reiterated the importance of a line-item budget,which she has requested,but to no avail. She referenced the City Manager's recommendations for decreasing the millage,which benefits the residents such as: the elimination of Miss Miami Gardens, MLK Event, closing all outdoor pools. However,the budget still includes"Special Pay". Vice Mayor Campbell said again people are coming up talking about things that are not before this Council for consideration. He said he did not see anywhere in the budget the elimination of any events or the closing of any pools. He said it bothers him when individuals talk about things that are not before this Council for consideration. He said individuals are saying things that are not the truth, and the audience believes it. Councilwoman Pritchett asked the City Manager to clarify"Other Operating Expenses"for 2009/2010,which had an expenditure of approximately$170,000.00,and no amount for 2010/2011. Manager Crew said the item Councilwoman Pritchett is referring to relates to "Other Operating Expenses" was zeroed out in everyone's budget. The money was allocated into other accounts. Councilwoman Pritchett said if an explanation had been provided there would be no questions raised. She emphasized the importance of sharing information. Sporty Young, 19025 NW 23`d Avenue, Miami Gardens,Florida, appeared before the City Council as the President of the Ambassadors. He said for clarification purposes he stated the Buccaneers, Ambassadors, Clover Leaf senior groups had no association with the City at all. The only association these groups had with the City was the use of their facilities. These groups were not a part of the recreation program. These groups were asked to join the Parks and Recreation. He said all that is being asked is for the Ambassadors to have their meeting at the BTF Community Center free of charge because the building the group is currently using is too small. He said each member pays $5.00 per month those funds should cover the cost of utilizing the building for meetings. Councilman Gilbert shared that some of the seniors have told him that they do not want to come to the new building;they want to stay in their individual buildings and not come to the BTF Community Center. Mr. Young said when city staff had approached the five senior group presidents; they had indicated that the groups would have to pay for the use of the BTF Community Center. Budget Minutes September 22, 2010 Page 10 Councilman Gilbert asked if it was the consensus of the senior groups that if they have to pay they all wanted to meet at separate times at the BTF Community Center. Mr. Young said this is not correct. The groups did not want to have to pay to use the BTF Community Center for meetings. Councilman Gilbert opined there is no consensus between the senior groups about what it is they want to do.Some are saying they want to still meet at their individual locations and not come to the BTF Community Center. Some are saying they will meet at the Center on an assigned day,but do not want to pay for the use of the facility. Mr. Young said for clarification when he spoke with the presidents of the groups they decided that their current locations were too small to accommodate the number of individuals waiting to join the groups. Therefore they were willing to meet at the BTF Community Center. Councilwoman Pritchett for clarification purposes asked Mr.Young if he was saying that in order to grow,the groups would meet at the Betty T. Ferguson Community Center Complex. Each group would have one -day where they will meet in one room per-day, and still pay the $5.00 fee. Councilwoman Pritchett asked four of the five presidents representing the senior groups present if they were willing to pay the five dollars, each member for use of the Betty T Ferguson Recreation Complex to have their meeting, and did not care about the field trips or the meals. Geraldine Solomon,representative of the Buccaneers,3030 NW 205'Street,Miami Gardens, Florida, appeared before the City Council in response to Councilwoman Pritchett's question. She said her group will meeting at the BTF Community Center Complex,will continue to pay the five dollars and receive the breakfast and field trips,or the field trips and breakfast could be eliminated. She shared when staff told the groups about meeting at the BTF Community Center they were told they would have to all come as one group. Mrs.Williams, 18761 NW 39th Court appeared before the City Council as the representative of the Brentwood Goldie's. She said what was offered to her group was an option. The group chose the Silver Option,which includes breakfast and three trips. The group decided the city could either get rid of the breakfast, and trips or keep the breakfast, keep the trips and add the full use of the community center,at a minimum price of less than$20.00. Mary Johnson, 740 NW 207th Street, Miami Gardens, Florida appeared before the City Council to share that her group agreed with Mrs.Williams' group;the breakfast,trips and full use of the facility at a reduced rate of less than $20.00. Councilman Gilbert shared that his point is there was not a consensus of the groups.They are actually saying different things. He opined if the City is trying to design a program somebody is going to unhappy within that group. Budget Minutes September 22, 2010 Page 11 Councilwoman Robinson opined a lot of confusion is coming in because the seniors do not have that updated memorandum. Copies of the updated memorandum were provided to the senior. Chanel Williams-Chambers, 17300 NW 22nd Avenue,Miami,Florida, appeared before the City Council and stated in tough times everybody has to contribute. She said the City of Miami upper management gave back ten percent;regular employees gave back five percent. She referenced the$10,000 set aside for the Christmas Party and said this expense should be eliminated. She asked whether the General Obligation Bond should come to the citizens for a vote. She said it is important for the Council to listen to the residents,who voted and put them in office. Attorney Dickens in response to the question about the General Obligation Bond and shared a General Obligation Bond would have to be approved by the voters. However, the City has never issued a General Obligation Bond. Gail Fein, 1710 NW NW 187th Street, Miami Gardens, Florida, appeared before the City Council to express concern with Rolling Oaks Parks. She said there have been several accidents in this area due to speeding in the area. There are major issues happening near the park. She asked whether the park is going to be a sports center, and if so,there needs to be a separation. Councilman Williams asked the City Manager to expound on Rolling Oaks Park. Manager Crew said the funding is there however there is nothing the City can do until it gets that piece of property the Council has authorized the City to condemn. Once that happens the development can start and the entrance to the park can be moved to NW 183`d Street. Cecil A. Bell, 17511 NW 12th Avenue, Miami Gardens, Florida, appeared before the City Council to share his observation of tonight's proceedings. He opined there is a lot of disrespect. There are a lot of people in the audience who have taken the time to do the research and want to be heard. He shared the he was a 29 year employee with Miami-Dade County. His last year of employment he took a five percent pay cut,and gave up his bonus. He said he was willing to do this is because most people around the country were doing the same thing. He said most people around the country are unemployed and do not have jobs. He opined there needs to be some flexibility. Charles Johnson Jr., 8390 NW 18th Avenue, Miami, Florida, appeared before the City Council to commend everyone who took part in the incorporation of the City. He encourage decreases the expenditures in the budget. He recommended implementing a line item budget. Judy Walker, 2865 NW 198th Street, Miami Gardens, Florida, appeared before the City Council to express concern with the increased traffic volume due to a sport activity at the BTF Community Center. Cars were also parked along the side street and blocked individual properties. Marie Conyers, 18714 NW 32nd Place, Miami Gardens, Florida, appeared before the City Budget Minutes September 22, 2010 Page 12 Council and asked the Council to consider freezing all salaries and raises. She said the activities occurring on park in her neighborhood every afternoon and on the weekends is generating so many cars on the weekends. She further asked the Council to consider the senior citizens. Geraldine Solomon.3030 NW 205th Street,Miami Gardens,Florida,appeared before the City Council in opposition to the budget. She further urged the Council to support the senior group. Denise Prehay, 18051 NW 40th Place, Miami Gardens, Florida, appeared before the City Council to inquire about the People with Disabilities Advisory Committee. She expressed an interested in serving on this committee. Councilwoman Pritchett thanked Ms. Prehay for her inquiry and interest. The Council will be discussing the People with Disabilities Advisory Committee during the regular City Council meeting,which is coming up next after this meeting. She informed Ms. Prehay that an application would be provided to her for appointment to this committee, once it has been established. Vice Mayor Campbell announced that he would be appointing Ms.Prehay to the People with Disabilities Committee once it has been established. Elizabeth Crum 19705 NW 28th Court, Miami Gardens, Florida, appeared before the City Council to express concern with the excess parking problem in her area brought on by the increased activity at the BTF Community Center Complex. She suggested to combat this problem that "no parking" signs be placed in her neighborhood. Mayor Gibson asked the City Manager to have someone look into this traffic situation. Maerine Stokes, 3281 NW 213th Street, Miami Gardens, Florida, appeared before the City Council to speak on behalf of the Buccaneers. She said this senior group should be given more consideration that what is being given to them. She shared that she has visited other parks and the fees charged for those parks are not as extravagant as the fees paid at Buccaneer. Dr.Lester Brown, 18801 NW 29th Court,Miami Gardens,Florida,appeared before the City Council to commend the many residents for speaking at tonight's meeting. He stressed the importance of civility, and not being mean toward one another. After there were no other interested parties to speak on this item,the public hearing closed. Motion offered by Councilman Williams, seconded by Councilman Gilbert to adopt this ordinance. Councilman Williams thanked the public for their comments tonight. He conveyed understanding of how important the seniors are to this community. He shared that some of his family members were the original settlers here therefore he understands their(seniors)contributions to this community. Budget Minutes September 22, 2010 Page 13 Councilman Williams read an excerpt of the Vision and Mission Statement for the City of Miami Gardens. The mission of the City of Miami Gardens is to enhance the quality of life to the efficient and professional delivery of public services. The Mission Statement for the City is"City will deliver superior services designed to enhance public safety and quality of life by exercising good stewardship to open government and resident involvement. He said the seniors are the cornerstone of our government. He conveyed understanding of the hardship the City's fees impose on their finances. He said the City also has a high unemployment rate. Therefore,there are individuals not within the seniors' age range that are struggling too. He said he takes his role very seriously. The City should be providing public services. Specifically,he shared that he has spoken about Jazz in the Gardens on numerous occasions, which is a wonderful event. He said if times were plentiful he would have no problem with supporting it. However, these are tough times and he would not support a budget that has 2 Million Dollars set aside for Jazz in the Gardens. Councilman Williams submitted into the record a memorandum from a group that had approached the City about taking over the Jazz in the Gardens Festival,at no cost to the City. This group was going to ensure a profit on a yearly basis,moving forward. He read an excerpt from an email he received from this group. "It was good talking with you earlier today,as to what we spoke about, my group met with city representatives a couple of times last week to present an offer to acquire the rights to the Jazz in the Gardens' event currently owned by the City of Miami Gardens. Present at our initial meeting on Tuesday,July 13th was Mayor Shirley Gibson,City Attorney Sonja K. Dickens, Deputy City Manager Renee Crichton, Assistant City Manager Vernita Nelson, and Events and Media Coordinator Ula Zucker." He shared that the email he just read from was dated July 22,2010. "Present at our follow-up meeting two days later was Sonja Dickens,Renee Crichton and Ula Zucker. There were many phone calls back and forth and I believe we have addressed their concerns and submitted our final proposal,yesterday. "From my perspective we believe the City's current budget for the 2011 event, which is greater than last year's budget puts the City at a significant risk of losing money. I propose to take the financial risk out of the city's hands and give the City guaranteed financial, and promotional benefit." He shared that email is from Jay Seigler, President of the Dolphins. The memorandum is from Leo Saunders,who is already a producer for Jazz in the Gardens. "The City of Miami Gardens is faced with a unique opportunity to ensure the continued growth of Jazz in the Gardens for years to come. We hope that you will see this opportunity as a positive step for the community that it truly is." He shared one of the bullet points on the memorandum is "ensure the continued growth of Jazz in the Gardens without taking funds each year from the City's budget." Another bullet point is"secure a financial stream for the City for years to come." The promoter has proposed the following revenue for the city: 2011 - $200,000; 2012 - $150.00; 2013 - $100,000; 2014 - $100,000; 2015 - $100.000; 20164100,00 plus. Councilman Williams said he has been very diplomatic about this moving forward. He shared this memorandum did not see the light of day because these people were not given an opportunity to present their proposal to the City Council. He said the issue before this Council tonight is that the City has a 2 Million dollar lavish party that it puts on every year. That's 2 Million that can be spent on seniors,putting money back in to our parks, and senior programs. Budget Minutes September 22, 2010 Page 14 Councilman Williams proposed a motion to eliminate Jazz in the Gardens from the City's budget for one year, and begin negotiations with this group so that the City does not incur any expense for Jazz in the Gardens, moving forward. This motion was seconded by Councilwoman Pritchett. Councilman Gilbert stated eliminating Jazz in the Gardens would be irresponsible;everyone on the dais knows that while the City spends 2 Million Dollars on Jazz in the Gardens,the City also makes more than 2 Million Dollars from this event. He said we can cut Jazz in the Gardens from the budget, but we would have to also cut the revenues generated by Jazz in the Gardens from the budget. Jazz in the Gardens generates revenues of approximately 2.1 Million Dollars. Therefore,if we cut the event and cut the money it brings in, we will have to find a way to cut the additional money it brings in. We spend two million, we make more than two million. He reiterated the 2 Million dollar party actually makes the City money. He asked Manager Crew for the numbers on Jazz in the Gardens,how much was spent and how much was brought back in. Manager Crew said the estimated revenue is approximately $120,000. Councilman Gilbert commented,we made $120,000 more than we actually spent. Manager Crew said that is correct. Councilman Gilbert asked whether the $120,000 has been budgeted in next year's budget. Manager Crew in response to Councilman Gilbert's question replied, "Yes." Councilman Gilbert asked where would we take the $120,000 from in the budget that we have already budgeted for. Manager said we would have to take additional cuts. Councilman Gilbert said a good example is, in the Media and Events Division a lot of programs are done;the Dr.Martin Luther King Jr.,celebration for example. The money made from Jazz in the Gardens helps to offset the cost for all the other events. Jazz in the Gardens event does great branding for the City;it makes the city a destination spot,and places the City in a positive light. WE bring thousands of people here; they look forward to coming. We are reimaging the City. Independent of that he stated that he supports Jazz in the Gardens because it helps to pay for the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Celebration. He said everything in Special Events is basically paid for by Jazz in the Gardens. He said if you cut Jazz in the Gardens you are cutting funding for the other events. He emphasized Jazz in the Gardens makes money and does not cost the City anything. If this event is cut, additional cuts will also have to occur. So, why it makes great political speech; great political sense to say cut the 2 million dollar party,it makes horrible fiscal sense to cut the 2.1 Million Dollar Profit. Councilwoman Pritchett asked for clarification on the 2.1 Million Dollar profit mentioned by Councilman Gilbert. Budget Minutes September 22, 2010 Page 15 Councilman Gilbert explained, we spent 2 Million Dollars and we make 2 Million, one hundred twenty thousand dollars. He expounded, we make our money back and then some. That extra money is used to pay for all the other events provided to the Community, for free. Councilwoman Pritchett for clarification purposes said the City made a profit of$120,000 for the 2010 Jazz in the Gardens event. She asked what was the profits for 2009,2008,2007 and 2006. Manager Crew in response to Councilwoman Pritchett's inquiry said the city lost revenue during those years. He said it took five years to build this event. The first year 2,200 people came. Last year 47,000 people came. Councilman Williams said he has been labeled as irresponsible and did not think that it was irresponsible to raise an issue about a 2 Million dollar item in the budget. He shared in 2009 the City a shortfall from Jazz in the Gardens of $298,770.00;2008 a shortfall of$670,528;2007 a shortfall of$560,139.00; 2006 a shortfall of $304,202.00. For a total shortfall loss of$1,833,639.00. He said his proposal is to engage this company to do the event for free. He emphasized the importance of changing the process. Councilman Gilbert shared that he received an email today that said he could make a whole bunch of money. He said he is reminded of that because people can say anything in a letter. As a City, we have the responsibility of not only measuring what they say but measuring their ability to actually make it happen. He said that Councilman Williams shared that in the beginning the City lost money however, each year after that the City lost a little less. That is the model for every entrepreneur. He asked why would we give away something once we have made it a success to someone we are not sure can actually give the City what they are proposing. He said he was not against negotiating with any entity to do Jazz in the Gardens. He opined we have to be prudent. He further said if you cut something out for a year,you ruin the brand. Mayor Gibson said everybody in the audience know that she brought Jazz in the Gardens to this Council,five years ago. She explained her reason for bringing this item forward was because the City really needed to have something of a positive culture image to help build the City. She said folks that are coming to Miami Gardens are not coming here to give us anything. They are coming here to reap the benefits of what we have invested. She shared that Councilman Williams was not in those meetings. She said during that meeting she asked the specific question about the profit return and was told,if we make a profit,we will give it to you. She said there has been talk about making this City a premier city. That can only happen if you are willing to invest. People are looking to invest in this community because of what it has done and because of the sacrifices you have made. She urged the residents to not get to this point of these seven years to turn around and lose everything that you have invested in because someone is telling you that we are wasting your money. She said if the residents feels that what Councilman Williams has said there is 2 Million Dollars in the budget that can be used elsewhere, that 2 Million dollars is not here. She stated over 2 Million Dollars in tickets sales was made last year. This is an event the City cannot afford to give to someone. She shared the only reason local vendors are allowed to come in and sell during this event Budget Minutes September 22, 2010 Page 16 is because she fought for it. Jazz in the Gardens is the only event where outside vendors are allowed to come in and sell food. What this means to the people who look like you and I;they make a lot of money on Jazz in the Gardens because we have fought for them to have a booth. Mayor Gibson further shared that no one has fought harder to move the brand of this City that she. She said folks from around the country have never seen people of color be able to reach the goals that the City of Miami Gardens has reached. She said that she refuse to sit here and have her colleague,which is her cousin to say to you that we should not invest in our community. We need it and our children needs it. She stated that we have value and encouraged the residents to stop thinking they have no value. She emphasized the importance of growing the community for our children. She said big business has to come here. Miami Gardens needs to be a destination. She stressed there is such an opportunity to grow this community. There is nothing between the City of Miami Gardens,South Beach and Broward County. She asked everyone to not lose site of growing this community and making it be a place to be left as a legacy for our children and grandchildren.Do not let it die like over town. It is a sacrifice,but nothing black folk has ever had has been gotten if they did not sacrifice. It is the posturing, my colleague, my cousin, like he is so concerned about what happens to you. It is not all about that. Mayor Gibson further shared that she hear the comments all the time about how poor things have been in this community. She said the City of Miami Gardens has one of the highest income areas in Miami-Dade County. She told the residents to stop thinking they are poor when they are not. She shared that is what happened the first time this area tried to incorporate. Miami-Dade County told the residents this area was too poor. She said she told residents they were not poor because she say the numbers. She said she knows how much money is in this City because she looks at the numbers. She encouraged people to stop saying they are poor. Our children do not need to hear people talking about how poor they are and instead talk about how rick they are. Mayor Gibson told the audience that she would never do anything to disrespect them, nor spend their money unwisely. She is looking for an investment on the return for the residents to love the place where they are and to move it to a premier city. Vice Mayor Campbell said he has a great appreciation for what Mayor Gibson just stated. However his problem is he has not heard anyone speak on behalf of raising the millage. He said the comments he heard are for things that they want but they do not want to raise the millage. He said for the first time in his political career he was going to do what he personally considers an irresponsible decision and vote against the proposed millage rate. He said he was going to give the people what they asked for. He commented sometimes,you do not know what you are asking for. Councilman Williams stated that he appreciated the comments made by Mayor Gibson and Councilman Gilbert. He opined they have personalized this. He said this is a budget matter and we have a policy disagreement. He said he has broad shoulders and it fine to attack him personally. He said he represents the residents and want them to know how he feels about the budget. He said he is doing his job. This is what the residents elected him to do. He said he was sorry if people on the dais did not agree with his fiscal conservative approach. He said he was speaking about children and Budget Minutes September 22, 2010 Page 17 their legacy and ability to function in the City of Miami Gardens. He said he was talking about a budgetary item. He said he has been called political,irresponsible,and not looking out for the future of our community. He shared that the City of Miami Gardens has Sun Life Stadium,which attracts people here for the football games. There is also Calder Casino. Therefore,people come to the City of Miami Gardens. He said he did not want people to think that Jazz in the Gardens is a stand alone event and people only came to Miami Gardens for that event. Councilman Gilbert said this is not personal against Councilman Williams, it is personal against the idea. He said every time he votes on something he thinks how it will affect the children and seniors. He shared that he interacts with the children and seniors every day. The business,safety and development of this community is something he thinks about in the long run,not the short run and what it will look like ten,fifteen,twenty years from now. He said this City has been given to us by the people and it is something valuable. If we are going to enhance the value of the products that they gave us,we have to make decisions that are not for tomorrow,but for tomorrows'tomorrow.He admitted that this city is personal to him. He loves this city. It is the only place he has ever lived. He said he would love to pay less in taxes but understands sacrifices are required sometimes, and sometimes it is required of him. Councilwoman Pritchett asked about the attendance for the Jazz in the Gardens event for Saturday and Sunday. Manager Crew said the attendance on Saturday was approximately 29,000. Sunday's attendance was approximately 14,000. This in part was due to the talent. Mary J. Blidge drew a larger crowd than John Legend. Councilwoman Pritchett expressed concern with whether the producer (Leon Saunders)was providing the City with the best representation, since he had submitted a proposal to take over the event. Manager Crew said he could not answer and perhaps the City Attorney would be able to talk about what happened there. He said when we look at a contract we look at their financial backing and how secure that contractor is. He said overall staff felt very uncomfortable with Mr. Saunders proposal. Councilwoman Pritchett commented that Mr. Saunders is the producer of this event and is paid for this service by the City of Miami Gardens. Attorney Dickens said that staff did not bring this proposal to the Council because it was not feasible. However,anyone on the dais could have brought it forward. She suggested in the event the Council decides to continue to do this event for the next time,(2012)and RFP is put out to get other responses back and not just the unsolicited ones. She said this proposal came in July. Council had already approved Jazz in the Gardens in February. There was not only a money issue,there was a time issue. She said the proposals would include a financial plan to front the event. Budget Minutes September 22, 2010 Page 18 Councilman Williams withdrew his motion to eleminate the funding of Jazz in the Gardens from the budget. Motion offered by Councilman Williams, seconded by Councilman Gilbert to put out an RFP/REQ for Jazz in the Gardens for 2012. Councilwoman Pritchett for clarification purposes stated a motion was made by Councilman Williams and seconded by Councilman Gilbert to put out an RFP/RFQ for putting on Jazz in the Gardens for 2012. Council will ultimately make the decision in terms of who would be the producer of Jazz in the Gardens. That decision will be made at a public meeting. Attorney Dickens said the Council can also decide it did not want any of the proposals,with the City continuing to produce its own event. The RFQ could also request proposals for a one or two day event. There being no further discussion on the motion to put out an RFP/RFQ for the production of Jazz in the Gardens for 2012 passed and carried by a 7-0 voice vote. Councilman Gilbert said as it relates to the seniors,he would like for them to be able to have their meeting, on those days, in a room at the Community Center, for the set amount of$5.00. He asked the City Manager what is needed in the budget to make that happen. Manager Crew said that is the way it is in the budget now. Councilman Gilbert said then that is the way it is going to be. He said if the seniors were comfortable with coming to the BTF Community Center,having their meetings there and keeping the rate at$5.00,that is what he would like to see happen in the budget. Manager Crew said that is the way it is set up right now. Mayor Gibson said this is already in the budget therefore, there is nothing to be done but to make sure there is some clarity. Manager Crew said no representative from Bunche Park is here tonight. He shared that he had spoken with one of the members of this group who has expressed concern that a lot of their people did not have transportation therefore,they would like to stay at the Bunche Park Center. Councilman Gilbert for clarification said the representatives here will have the opportunity to meet at the BTF Community Center and the Bunche Park group can stay at the Bunche Park Center if they elect to do so. Manager Crew said that is correct. Councilwoman Pritchett asked for clarification on the$5.00 cost,as well as the information Budget Minutes September 22, 2010 Page 19 passed out about the various package levels(Gold package of$25.00 per month; Silver package of $15.00 per month; and Bronze package of $5.00 per month). She said Ms. Jackson and Ms. Williams indicated they were already paying for a package. Mayor Gibson said the packages are separate. Councilwoman Pritchett said therefore those packages would still apply for those who want them. Manager Crew said that is correct.He said there are a lot of individuals who are not members of any clubs who might want to participate. Councilwoman Pritchett said she understood that and just wanted to ensure that the City was meeting the needs of the citizens. Manager Crew said that is correct. Councilwoman Pritchett asked about the$20,000 in last fiscal year budget allocated to do the senior citizens survey for that Community of a Lifetime Initiative. She said the survey was never completed. It is obvious the seniors have a lot of concerns and needs that should be met. Once the survey is completed moneys can be drawn down from the Department of Community Development through the State of Florida Elderly Affairs Program. Councilman Gilbert recounted this was actually Mr. Isley's idea at a budget workshop. He said there were moneys set aside in the budget for this purpose. Councilwoman Pritchett motioned to put the $20,000 back in the budget so that the survey can be conducted. Once this survey has been completed the City can apply for grant funding through the State of Florida Department of Community Affairs under the Community for a Lifetime Initiative to capture funds to meet those needs outlined in the survey. This motion was seconded by Councilman Gilbert. Councilman Gilbert asked what happened to the funds set aside in last year's budget for this purpose. Manager Crew said he had no idea. He said in order to put that$20,000 in to the budget the millage would have to go up .00057 for a millage rate of 5.8048. Councilwoman Pritchett said there would be no need to raise the millage rate if salaries, merits and COLA's were frozen for one year. She further said that money was in the budget for the seniors and she doesn't know where it disappeared to. Mayor Gibson said the funds were allocated in the Council's Discretionary Fund. Budget Minutes September 22, 2010 Page 20 Manager Crew said the money wasn't spent. The budget was cut three times this past fiscal year. Manager Crew said a PO will be issued which will carry the funds over to next year's budget that way nothing will need to be changed. Councilwoman Pritchett withdrew her motion. Councilman Gilbert asked if no merits or COLA's were given what would that millage rate be. He said Miami Gardens' situation has been compared to that of Miami-Dade County,the cities of Miami and Hialeah. However,their situations are due to union contracts. Manager Crew said that millage rate would be 5.7141. Mayor Gibson said it is important to keep the federal lobbyist in the budget. The City needs to have a voice in Washington, especially as it relates to getting the federal dollars. She said the investment to the City to keep a lobbyist in Washington D.C. is paramount at this particular time. Manager Crew said$75,000 has been allocated in the budget for lobbyist. He said staff can look at renegotiating the lobbyist contracts both in Tallahassee and Washington. He opined that the City can get both lobbyists for the budgeted amount. He further shared there are funds in the Stormwater Fund that could be used for this purpose. Councilwoman Pritchett thanked the residents for their comments tonight.She further said in order to show the residents that the Council really listened to their concerns, more cost saving measures needed to be considered in this budget. She recommended getting rid of the COLA for one year. Mayor Gibson shared that the Miami-Dade County Property Appraiser sends out property tax information to municipalities, and last year he sent out information on three different occasions. Each time,the property value went down,which meant the City had to go back and cut its budget. She said she wanted the residents to understand that just because something is in the budget now does not mean it will stay there because there might be additional decreases in property values this coming fiscal year. She reiterated Vice Mayor Campbell's statement about being careful of what they ask for as it related to no tax increase, because the money might not be there, if the property values decrease some more. Once all discussion on the budget concluded,a motion was offered by Vice Mayor Campbell, seconded by Councilwoman Davis to defer the adoption of this item until after the adoption of the millage rate. The motion to defer this item until the adoption of the millage resolution passed and carried by a 7-0 voice vote. The Council then went back to consider the millage resolution and its subsequent adoption. Budget Minutes September 22, 2010 Page 21 After the adoption of the millage rate resolution,and no further no further discussion on the budget item,a motion was offered by Councilman Gilbert,seconded by Councilwoman Robinson to amend the budget to accept the changes made by the City Manager(Phase I revenues and Phase II expenditures). This motion passed and carried by a 5-2 voice vote. Vice Mayor Campbell and Councilwoman Pritchett cast the dissenting votes on the amendment. After there was no further discussion on the budget as a whole, the motion to adopt the budget as amended passed and carried by a 4-3 vote. Councilwoman Davis: Yes Councilman Gilbert: Yes Councilwoman Pritchett: No Councilwoman Robinson: Yes Councilman Williams: No Vice Mayor Campbell: No Mayor Gibson: Yes (F) ADJOURNMENT. There being no further business to come before this Body, and upon a motion being duly made,the meeting adjourned at 9:58 p.m. r Attest: Shirl song Mayor Ronetta Taylor,MM City Clerk Budget Minutes September 22, 2010 Page 22