HomeMy WebLinkAboutJuly 22, 2009CITY OF MIAMI GARDENS
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
JULY 22, 2009
(A) CALL TO ORDER/ROLL CALL
The City Council for the City of Miami Gardens, Florida, met in regular session on
Wednesday, July 22, 2009, 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 and
Council members Aaron Campbell Jr., Melvin L. Bratton, Andre Williams and Oliver G. Gilbert
III. Vice Mayor Watson arrived at 7:20 p.m. Councilwoman Sharon Pritchett was not present.
Also in attendance were: City Manager Dr. Danny O. Crew, City Attorney Sonja K.
Dickens and City Clerk Ronetta Taylor.
(B) INVOCATION
Delivered by Dr. Lester Brown.
(C) PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Recited in unison.
(D) APPROVAL OF MINUTES
D-1) Regular City Council Minutes -June 24, 2009
Motion offered by Councilman Gilbert, seconded by Councilman Bratton to approve the
minutes, with necessary corrections, if any. This motion passed and carried by a 5-0 voice vote.
D-2) Special City Council Minutes -June 29, 2009
Motion offered by Councilman Bratton, seconded by Councilman Gilbert to approve the
minutes, with necessary corrections, if any. This motion passed and carried by a 5-0 voice vote.
D-3) Regular City Council Minutes -July 8, 2009
Motion offered by Councilman Williams, seconded by Councilman Bratton to approve
the minutes, with necessary corrections if any. This motion passed and carried by a 5-0 voice
vote.
(E) ORDER OF BUSINESS (Items to be pulled from Consent Agenda at this time)
Manager Crew asked to have Item K-3 moved forward on the agenda to be considered
after Item I-2)
Moved by Councilman Williams, seconded by Vice Mayor Watson to pull Item J-4) from
the Consent Agenda. There being no discussion this motion passed and carried by a 6-0 voice
vote.
Regular City Council Minutes
July 22, 2009 Page 1
Motion offered by Councilman Gilbert, seconded by Vice Mayor Watson to pull Item J-
15 from the Consent Agenda. There being no discussion this motion passed and carried by a 6-0
voice vote.
Manager Crew asked that the official Agenda be amended to add the following Item as
Item K-4) "A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI
GARDENS, FLORIDA, AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER AND THE CITY
ATTORNEY TO NEGOTIATE AND EXECUTE, RESPECTIVELY, THAT CERTAIN
AGREEMENT WITH GRANTED PICTURES IN SUBSTANTIAL FORM, A COPY OF
WHICH IS ATTACHED HERETO AS EXHIBIT A; PROVIDING FOR THE ADOPTION OF
REPRESENTATIONS; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
Councilman Gilbert added a presentation as Item F-A.
Motion offered by Vice Mayor Watson, seconded by Councilman Gilbert to approve the
official agenda with the necessary changes. There being no discussion this motion passed and
carried by a 6-0 voice vote.
(F) SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS (5 minutes each)
F-A) Councilman Gilbert -Proclamation -Miami Gardens Track Club
Councilman Gilbert along with members of the City Council proclaimed Wednesday,
July 22, 2009 as Miami Gardens Track Club Day in the City of Miami Gardens. This
proclamation was presented to the Miami Gardens Track Club for the members' superior
performance while participating in the various track events throughout the United States.
F-1) Barbara Terry, Internal Revenue Service
Ms. Terry appeared before the City Council to provide information about income tax
credit for low to medium income residents. She further stated that the Internal Revenue Service
wanted to partner with municipalities and organizations to do free income tax filings. She
further provided information about the $8,000 Income Tax Credit for first time home buyers.
F-2) Councilman Melvin L. Bratton -Miss Miami Gardens 2009
Ula Zucker, Media and Special Events Coordinator appeared before the City Council to
introduce Ms. Rosie Justilien, Miss Miami Gardens for 2009.
Rosie Justilien, Miss Miami Gardens appeared before the City Council to expound on her
experiences while participating in the Miss Florida Pageant. She thanked the Council and the
City of Miami Gardens for this invaluable opportunity.
F-3) ~ r~~ v,,....;+., ,.r,.~~,.,, _ Danny Crew, City Manager -Employee of the Month
Manager Crew announced the recipients of the Employee of the Month as follows:
Kevin Yearby, Recreation Supervisor as Employee of the Month for October 2008; Thorshan
Williams, Recreation Aide as Employee of the Month for March 2009, and Tarsha Harper,
Permitting and License Clerk as Employee of the Month for June 2009.
Regular City Council Minutes
July 22, 2009 Page 2
(G) PUBLIC COMMENTS
Jessica Judith, Commission Aide to County Commissioner Barbara Jordan appeared
before the City Council to announce Commissioner Jordan has installed a hotline for the
residents of District 1 to call and voice their concerns about the County's proposed budget. That
hotline number is 305-375-1689. She further announced that Commissioner Jordan is holding a
community meeting to discuss that proposed budget. The meeting is scheduled for Tuesday,
August 11, 2009, at the North Dade Regional Library beginning at 6:00 p.m. Additionally, a free
mobile health clinic will be stationed at the North Dade Regional Library on July 24, 2009 from
9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Parents wishing to partake of this free service for their children can make
arrangements by calling 305-243-6005.
Dr. Lester Brown appeared before the City Council to congratulate the participants of the
Miami Gardens Track Club for their outstanding performances. He encouraged the men to be
strong role models for our young men.
Sharon Frazier Stephens, 145 NE 193`d Street, Miami, Florida, appeared before the City
Council to commend residents for their community involvement. She further commended Chief
Boyd for doing a wonderful job.
Ms. Johnson appeared before the City Council to ask about Miami-Dade County's
initiative with the homeless issue as it relates to the City of Miami Gardens.
Mayor Gibson shared she had seen a news broadcast indicating that Miami-Dade County
was looking at the closed corrections facility on State Road 9, as a possible site for the
homeless. That location is not in the boundaries of the City of Miami Gardens. She suggested
that Ms. Johnson take advantage of the Hotline number provided by County Commissioner
Barbara Jordan's aide provided earlier.
Evelyn Peters appeared before the City Council to express concern with one of the
industries within the City of Miami Gardens that had qualified for a tax refund by Miami-Dade
County. She said this particular industry was not named when identified, the only reference was
confidential. She shared that after doing some research she discovered this particular industry
manufactures weapons. She said this particular industry is planning to expand its operations.
She stated that she has a problem with that expansion. Miami-Dade County had voted in favor
of this tax refund because this expansion would bring additional jobs and the fact that this
industry did not make assault weapons. However, this industry does make assault weapons for
the United States Army, as well as weapons for our various law enforcement entities. She said
her concern is that this industry is planning on expansion, and the City's police department is
working very hard on gun control.
Herbert Aiden, CEO of Aiden Community Development appeared before the City
Council to share that a survey was conducted as to whether seniors were getting quality music.
Therefore, his organization decided to take the challenge to provide the type and quality of music
seniors are accustom to from his high school years. This music can be heard Mahogany Grille.
Regular City Council Minutes
July 22, 2009 Page 3
Mayor Gibson announced that a Town Hall Meeting will be held on Thursday, July 30,
2009, at Florida Memorial University to provide information on the Federal Stimulus Packet.
She encouraged everyone to come out to this very informative meeting. Furthermore, Daniel
Rosemond, starting in August on Tuesdays from 2:00 p.m. -5 p.m., and Fridays from 9:00 a.m. to
12 noon, individuals can come to City Hall to meet with staff from the Community Development
Department to discuss any questions and issues they may have about the stimulus program.
(H) ORDINANCE(S) FOR FIRST READING
H-1) AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA, CREATING A FLOOD PLAIN
MANAGEMENT ORDINANCE, AS ATTACHED HERETO IN
EXHIBIT "A"; PROVIDING FOR FINDINGS OF FACT, PURPOSE
AND OBJECTIVES; PROVIDING FOR DEFINITIONS;
PROVIDING FOR REGULATIONS AND STANDARDS;
PROVIDING FOR VARIANCE AND APPEALS PROCEDURES;
PROVIDING FOR PENALTIES; PROVIDING FOR ADOPTION
OF REPRESENTATIONS; REPEALING ALL ORDINANCES AND
RESOLUTIONS IN CONFLICT; PROVIDING A SEVERABILITY
CLAUSE; PROVIDING FOR INCLUSION IN CODE; PROVIDING
AN EFFECTIVE DATE. (SPONSORED BY THE CITY MANAGER)
Manager Crew explained this establishes the City of Miami Gardens Flood Plain. Initially
the City of Miami Gardens utilized Miami-Dade County's Ordinance. This ordinance is
specifically designed for the City of Miami Gardens.
Motion offered by Vice Mayor Watson, seconded by Councilman Bratton to adopt this item
on first reading.
There being no discussion, the motion to adopt on first reading passed and carried by a 6-0
vote.
Councilman Bratton: Yes
Councilman Campbell: Yes
Councilman Gilbert: Yes
Councilwoman Pritchett: Not present
Vice Mayor Watson: Yes
Councilman Williams: Yes
Mayor Gibson: Yes
(I) ORDINANCE(S) FOR SECOND READING/PUBLIC HEARING(S)
ORDINANCE N0.2009-18-190
I-1) AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
Regular City Council Minutes
July 22, 2009 Page 4
MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA AUTHORIZING THE
BORROWING OF FOUR MILLION DOLLARS ($4,000,000);
AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF CITY OF MIAMI
GARDENS, FLORIDA LAND ACQUISITION AND
IMPROVEMENT REVENUE BONDS NOT TO EXCEED FOUR
MILLION DOLLARS ($4,000,000); PROVIDING FOR A
SUPPLEMENTAL RESOLUTION SETTING FORTH THE
DETAILS OF SAID BONDS; PROVIDING FOR ADOPTION OF
REPRESENTATIONS; REPEALING ALL ORDINANCES IN
CONFLICT; PROVIDING A SEVERABILITY CLAUSE;
PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. (SPONSORED BY THE
CITY MANAGER) (1sT Reading -July 8, 2009)
Manager Crew explained this is the second reading of the proposed bond issue for the
property the City anticipates purchasing for its Senior Citizen Programs.
Mayor Gibson opened the floor for this public hearing. After there were no interested
parties to speak on this item, the public hearing closed.
Motion offered by Vice Mayor Watson, seconded by Councilman Campbell to adopt this
ordinance.
Councilman Williams stated he initially supported this item. He opined the acquisition
of land is a good thing. He asked about the appraised value.
Manager Crew said the appraisal is approximately $6.00 per square foot.
Councilman Williams conveyed reservations. He said as a real estate attorney he did not
know, in the long run, whether these land acquisitions will provide the kind of land value being
anticipated. He said he supports this in principle, but was not sure about the land acquisition
portion.
Manager Crew said this is a 13 acre site appraised at 5 Million Dollars. He said this is
approximately of what the City paid for the piece of property on the other side of the Turnpike
for Rolling Oaks Park.
There being no further discussion, the motion to adopt this ordinance passed and carried
by a 5-1 vote.
Councilman Campbell: Yes
Councilman Gilbert: Yea
Councilwoman Pritchett: Not present
Vice Mayor Watson: Yes
Councilman Williams: No
Councilman Bratton: Yes
Mayor Gibson: Yes
Regular City Council Minutes
July 22, 2009 Page 5
ORDINANCE N0.2009-19-191
I-2) AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA AUTHORIZING THE
BORROWING OF NINE MILLION DOLLARS ($9,000,000);
AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF CITY OF MIAMI
GARDENS, FLORIDA TAXABLE LAND ACQUISITION
REVENUE BONDS NOT TO EXCEED NINE MILLION DOLLARS
($9,000,000); PROVIDING FOR A SUPPLEMENTAL
RESOLUTION SETTING FORTH THE DETAILS OF SAID
BONDS; PROVIDING FOR ADOPTION OF REPRESENTATIONS;
REPEALING ALL ORDINANCES IN CONFLICT; PROVIDING A
SEVERABILITY CLAUSE; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
(SPONSORED BY THE CITY MANAGER) (1St Reading -July 8,
2009)
Manager Crew shared this is approximately 47 acres in the Town Center of Miami
Gardens. The price is approximately $6.00 a square foot. It includes both residential and
commercial property. The commercial property as part of this deal would be immediately
deeded to the City. There is no restriction to prohibit the City from turning around and putting
this property back on the market. The appraisal on the commercial portion is approximately 2.4
Million Dollars. The balance of the property is zoned residential, and has DRI approval. As
part of this transaction, seven acres will be deeded back Cornerstone for Senior Housing. The
proposal is Cornerstone would pay the debt service on the bond issue. Cornerstone would come
back later to Council with an option to repurchase the property, which is similar to the Warren
Henry proposal. The appraised value is 12 Million Dollars.
Mayor Gibson opened the floor for the public hearing.
Charles Johnson, 8390 NW 13th Avenue, Miarni, Florida, appeared before the City
Council to express his views about the unprecedented drop in property values. He asked
whether the appraisal was available.
Manager Crew in response to Mr. Johnson's inquiry said the appraisal is available in the
Office of the City Clerk, as well as the City Manager's office. He said there are two appraisals;
one for the major portion (40 acres) and a second one on the two acres to be given to the City
(2.4 acres).
Mayor Gibson suggested that the City Manager meet with Mr. Johnson to answer any
specific questions he might have.
There being no other interested parties to speak on this item, the public hearing closed.
Motion offered by Vice Mayor Watson, seconded by Councilman Bratton to adopt this
ordinance.
Regular City Council Minutes
July 22, 2009 Page 6
Councilman Williams echoed his same concerns as with the previous item.
There being no further discussion, the motion to adopt this item passed and carried by a
5-1 vote.
Councilman Gilbert: Yes
Councilwoman Pritchett: Not present
Vice Mayor Watson: Yes
Councilman Williams: No
Councilman Bratton: Yes
Councilman Campbell: Yes
Mayor Gibson: Yes
RESOLUTION N0.2009-136-1081
K-3) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA, AUTHORIZING THE CITY
MANAGER TO NEGOTIATE EXCLUSIVELY WITH THE MIAMI
GARDENS TOWN CENTER LLC FOR THE DEVELOPMENT
AND CONSTRUCTION OF THE MIAMI GARDENS TOWN
CENTER; GRANTING THE CITY MANAGER 120 DAYS TO
NEGOTIATE A SUITABLE PROPOSAL; DIRECTING THE CITY
MANAGER TO BRING THE FINAL PROPOSAL BEFORE THE
CITY COUNCIL FOR FINAL APPROVAL; PROVIDING FOR
THE ADOPTION OF REPRESENTATIONS; PROVIDING AN
EFFECTIVE DATE. (SPONSORED BY THE CITY MANAGER)
Manager Crew recounted several years a~o the Council approved a vision for the Town
Center of Miami Gardens, in the area of NW 27t Avenue between 174'" - 191St streets. At that
time there was a lot of discussion and the thought was that the Town Center was not going to be
built by the government. The city does not have the funds, resources nor does it control the
properties.
Manager Crew stated an unsolicited proposal has come in from a group, which has
control of the properties between 183rd - 187th Streets and NW 27th Avenue, on the eastside.
This group has put together a proposal to do a joint venture between their property and the
City's property (Wachovia Bank -future City Hall site). This proposal would consist of the
developer building the City Hall complex as well as residential units and commercial buildings.
He said to have someone come in and is willing to invest hundreds of millions of dollars in our
downtown area is certainly worth looking at. He said he was asking the Council to authorize
him to negotiate exclusively with the Miami Gardens Town Center LLC, over the next six
months to ascertain whether it is to the City's best benefit for this group to develop and
construct the Miami Gardens Town Center.
Motion offered by Vice Mayor Watson, seconded by Councilmen Bratton and Gilbert to
approve this item.
Regular City Council Minutes
July 22, 2009 Page 7
Councilman Bratton inquired about the owner of the Mobil Gas Station.
Manager Crew said the Miami Gardens Town Center LLC has not been able to acquire
the Mobil Gas Station.
Councilman Williams said he was a little troubled because the Council is simply going to
award this group a no bid contract. He said from his experience with other municipalities there
is an RFP process and a bid is awarded. He said he has reviewed the proposal and
acknowledged that this group has some interesting ideas. He said he did not see any provisions
or information about financing. He opined there is a great deal more due diligence that needs to
be done, as well as a bid process.
Manager Crew in response to Councilman Williams' concerns said some of those same
things are of a concern to him that is why he is proposing a six month process. He said no one
else could make a proposal because no one else owns those properties. As to what the
developer do with the City and a City Hall complex would be the topic of discussion. The
financing and everything to do with that will also be discussed.
Manager Crew emphasized if you want a City Hall it is going to cost money. The debt
service is going to cost approximately 1.5 Million Dollars a year more than what the City pays
for the facility City Hall is currently housed in.
There being no further discussion, the motion to approve this item passed and carried by
a 5-1 vote.
Councilwoman Pritchett: Not present
Vice Mayor Watson: Yes
Councilman Williams: No
Councilman Bratton: Yes
Councilman Campbell: Yes
Councilman Gilbert: Yes
Mayor Gibson: Yes
(J) CONSENT AGENDA
RESOLUTION N0.2009-137-1082
J-1) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA, RATIFYING COUNCILMAN
ANDRE' WILLIAMS' APPOINTMENT OF ANEEL MAHARAJ TO
THE CARIBBEAN AFFAIRS COMMITTEE FOR ATWO-YEAR
TERM; PROVIDING FOR THE ADOPTION OF
REPRESENTATIONS; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE
(SPONSORED BY COUNCILMAN WILLIAMS)
Regular City Council Minutes
July 22, 2009 Page 8
RESOLUTION N0.2009-138-1083
J-2) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA, AUTHORIZING THE CITY
MANAGER AND CITY ATTORNEY TO INITIATE EMINENT
DOMAIN PROCEEDINGS IN ORDER TO TAKE OWNERSHIP OF
THAT CERTAIN PROPERTY LOCATED AT 1401 NORTHWEST
183RD STREET; PROVIDING FOR THE ADOPTION OF
REPRESENTATIONS; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
(SPONSORED BY THE CITY MANAGER)
RESOLUTION N0.2009-139-1084
J-3) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA, SUPPORTING THE GLOBAL
WARMING BILL AND THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT'S
EFFORTS TO REDUCE TOXIC EMISSIONS AND GLOBAL
WARMING; PROVIDING FOR INSTRUCTIONS TO THE CITY
CLERK; PROVIDING FOR THE ADOPTION OF
REPRESENTATIONS; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
(SPONSORED BY COUNCILMAN ANDRE WILLIAMS)
RESOLUTION N0.2009-140-1085
J-5) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA, APPROVING A RESOLUTION
AMENDING THE CITY OF MIAMI GARDENS' 2007-2010 LOCAL
HOUSING ASSISTANCE PLAN TO INCLUDE THE FLORIDA
HOMEBUYER OPPORTUNITY PROGRAM; PROVIDING FOR
THE ADOPTION OF REPRESENTATIONS; PROVIDING AN
EFFECTIVE DATE. (SPONSORED BY THE CITY MANAGER)
RESOLUTION N0.2009-141-1086
J-6) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA, APPROVING THE 4TH PROGRAM
YEAR ANNUAL ACTION PLAN FOR SUBMITTAL TO THE U.S.
HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT AGENCY FOR
RECEIPT OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT
FUNDS; PROVIDING FOR THE ADOPTION OF
REPRESENTATIONS; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
(SPONSORED BY THE CITY MANAGER)
RESOLUTION N0.2009-142-1087
J-7) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA, AUTHORIZING THE CITY
MANAGER TO ISSUE A CHANGE ORDER TO THE CITY'S
EXISTING CONTRACT WITH N & J CONSTRUCTION
CORPORATION, IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED ONE
MILLION SEVEN HUNDRED THIRTY-ONE THOUSAND THREE
Regular City Council Minutes
July 22, 2009 Page 9
HUNDRED FIFTY-EIGHT DOLLARS ($1,731,358.00);
PROVIDING FOR THE ADOPTION OF REPRESENTATIONS;
PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. (SPONSORED BY THE
CITY MANAGER)
RESOLUTION N0.2009-143-1088
J-8) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA, RATIFYING MAYOR SHIRLEY
GIBSON'S APPOINTMENT OF EVELYN P. MOSLEM TO THE
PARKS AND RECREATION ADVISORY COMMITTEE FOR A
TWO-YEAR TERM; PROVIDING FOR THE ADOPTION OF
REPRESENTATIONS; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE
(SPONSORED BY MAYOR SHIRLEY GIBSON)
RESOLUTION N0.2009-144-1089
J-9) 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 AGREEMENT WITH MIAMI-
DADE COUNTY SAFE NEIGHBORHOOD PARKS BOND
PROGRAM, ALONG WITH ACCOMPANYING DOCUMENTS IN
SUBSTANTIAL FORM AS THOSE DOCUMENTS ATTACHED
HERETO AS EXHIBIT A; AUTHORIZING A MATCH OF FUNDS;
PROVIDING FOR THE ADOPTION OF REPRESENTATIONS;
PROVIDING FOR INSTRUCTIONS TO THE CITY CLERK;
PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. (SPONSORED BY THE
CITY MANAGER)
RESOLUTION N0.2009-145-1090
J-10) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA, AUTHORIZING THE CITY
MANAGER TO ISSUE A CHANGE ORDER IN AN AMOUNT NOT
TO EXCEED THIRTY THOUSAND DOLLARS ($30,000.00) TO
STRAIGHTLINE ENGINEERING; PROVIDING FOR THE
ADOPTION OF REPRESENTATIONS; PROVIDING AN
EFFECTIVE DATE. (SPONSORED BY THE CITY MANAGER)
RESOLUTION N0.2009-146-1091
J-11) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA, APPROVING THE CITY OF
MIAMI GARDENS HOUSING POLICIES ATTACHED HERETO
AS EXHIBIT A; PROVIDING FOR THE ADOPTION OF
REPRESENTATIONS; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
(SPONSORED BY THE CITY MANAGER)
Regular City Council Minutes
July 22, 2009 Page 10
RESOLUTION N0.2009-147-1092
J-12) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA, RESCHEDULING THE
SEPTEMBER 9, 2009 AND SEPTEMBER 23, 2009 MEETINGS TO
SEPTEMBER 8, 2009 AND SEPTEMBER 21, 2009,
RESPECTIVELY; PROVIDING FOR THE ADOPTION OF
REPRESENTATIONS; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE
(SPONSORED BY THE CITY CLERK)
RESOLUTION N0.2009-148-1093
J-13) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA, RESCHEDULING THE
NOVEMBER 11, 2009 MEETING TO NOVEMBER 10, 2009;
PROVIDING FOR THE ADOPTION OF REPRESENTATIONS;
PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. (SPONSORED BY THE
CITY CLERK)
RESOLUTION N0.2009-149-1094
J-14) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA, AWARDING A BID FOR
CONSTRUCTION OF THE POLICE DEPARTMENT CRIME
SCENE ANALYSIS LAB TO RANCO CONSTRUCTION CORP. OF
SOUTH FLORIDA, IN THE AMOUNT OF $82,200.00;
AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO NEGOTIATE AND
EXECUTE A CONTRACT WITH RANCO CONSTRUCTION;
PROVIDING FOR THE ADOPTION OF REPRESENTATIONS;
PROVIDING FOR INSTRUCTIONS TO THE CITY CLERK;
PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. (SPONSORED BY THE
CITY MANAGER)
RESOLUTION N0.2009-150-1095
J-16) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA, AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE
OF LAND ACQUISITION AND IMPROVEMENT REVENUE
BONDS IN THE AGGREGATE PRINCIPAL AMOUNT OF FOUR
MILLION DOLLARS ($4,000,000) FOR THE PURPOSE OF
FINANCING A PORTION OF THE COSTS OF PURCHASING
LAND FOR, PURCHASING AND RENOVATING EXISTING
FACILITIES FOR, AND FINANCING ARCHITECTURAL,
ENGINEERING, ENVIRONMENTAL, LEGAL AND OTHER
PLANNING COSTS RELATED THERETO FOR, THE SITES OF A
SENIOR CENTER, PARK, AND OTHER PUBLIC FACILITIES,
AND PAYING COSTS OF ISSUANCE OF THE BONDS;
AWARDING THE SALE OF THE BONDS TO BANK OF
AMERICA, N.A.; PROVIDING FOR SECURITY FOR THE
BONDS; CONTAINING OTHER PROVISIONS RELATING TO
Regular City Council Minutes
July 22, 2009 Page 11
THE BONDS; MAKING CERTAIN COVENANTS AND
AGREEMENTS IN CONNECTION THEREWITH; PROVIDING
FOR ADOPTION OF REPRESENTATIONS; REPEALING ALL
RESOLUTIONS IN CONFLICT; PROVIDING A SEVERABILITY
CLAUSE; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. (SPONSORED
BY THE CITY MANAGER)
RESOLUTION N0.2009-151-1096
J-17) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA, AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE
OF TAXABLE LAND ACQUISITION REVENUE BONDS IN THE
AGGREGATE PRINCIPAL AMOUNT OF NOT EXCEEDING
NINE MILLION DOLLARS ($9,000,000) FOR THE PURPOSE OF
FINANCING THE COSTS OF PURCHASING CERTAIN
PROPERTY DESCRIBED ON EXHIBIT "A" ATTACHED
HERETO, AND PAYING COSTS OF ISSUANCE OF THE BONDS;
AWARDING THE SALE OF THE BONDS TO BANK OF
AMERICA, N.A.; PROVIDING FOR SECURITY FOR THE
BONDS; CONTAINING OTHER PROVISIONS RELATING TO
THE BONDS; MAKING CERTAIN COVENANTS AND
AGREEMENTS IN CONNECTION THEREWITH; PROVIDING
FOR ADOPTION OF REPRESENTATIONS; REPEALING ALL
RESOLUTIONS IN CONFLICT; PROVIDING A SEVERABILITY
CLAUSE; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. (SPONSORED
BY THE CITY MANAGER)
Motion offered by Vice Mayor Watson, seconded by Councilman Bratton to adopt the
Consent Agenda. There being no discussion this motion passed and carried by a 6-0 voice vote.
(K) RESOLUTION(S)
RESOLUTION N0.2009-152-1097
J-4) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA, TERMINATING THE CITY-WIDE
FINANCIAL LITERACY PROGRAM; PROVIDING FOR THE
ADOPTION OF REPRESENTATIONS; PROVIDING AN
EFFECTIVE DATE. (SPONSORED BY THE CITY MANAGER)
Councilman Williams clarified this resolution to terminate acity-wide financial literacy
program. He reminded everyone of the economic crisis being experienced in Miami Gardens,
which has a very high foreclosure rate. The State of Florida has the third highest foreclosure
rate in the country. Miami Gardens has an unemployment rate of 11%. Poor financial literacy
has contributed to our foreclosure crisis. He said he was glad to see that the vendor awarded the
contract withdrew because he did not think they were qualified to render the kind of services the
City was asked for. It is has been seen that we can be successful in a grass roots effort. He
Regular City Council Minutes
July 22, 2009 Page 12
shared that he has hosted a number of foreclosure clinics and helped a number of people like
senior citizen Lillian Taylor who was successful in reducing her mortgage to over $539.00 a
month, who was certainly looking forward to the Financial Literacy Program. She would have
benefited from the program. He said in his mind a vote to terminate the Financial Literacy
Program is a vote against our residents; a vote against helping our residents through this
financial crisis. He opined this matter should be put out for bid and secure a qualified vendor
who can actually do the work. He said now is not the time to give up on our residents through
this financial crisis.
Motion offered by Councilman Williams, seconded by Vice Mayor Watson to approve
this item.
There being no further discussion the motion to approve this item passed and carried by a
4-2 vote.
Councilman Williams: No
Councilman Bratton: No
Councilman Campbell: Yes
Councilman Gilbert: Yes
Councilwoman Pritchett: Not present
Vice Mayor Watson: Yes
Mayor Gibson: Yes
J-15) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA, AUTHORIZING THE CITY
MANAGER AND CITY CLERK TO EXECUTE AND ATTEST
THAT CERTAIN AGREEMENT WITH DOUBLE ACT
PRODUCTION COMPANY; PROVIDING FOR INSTRUCTIONS
TO THE CITY CLERK; PROVIDING FOR THE ADOPTION OF
REPRESENTATIONS; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE
(SPONSORED BY THE CITY MANAGER)
Councilman Gilbert asked whether consideration has been given, if an arrest is made, that
that film can be subpoenaed by the defense attorney, and civil attorneys who will sue the City.
Deputy Chief Paul Miller appeared before the Council to respond to Councilman
Gilbert's inquiry. He said all those things are possibilities. He said the City Attorney reviewed
the document and all of those issues were taken into consideration. He said the fact that the
City would be working with another agency doing these filming. He said there are a lot of
checks and balances and staff feels very comfortable with the way the City's police department
as well as the other agency is doing things.
Mayor Gibson stated after reading the item one of the things mentioned is that staff
wanted to move forward with this because of the relationship the police department has with
Miami-Dade County SWAT Team, which has an agreement with this production company. She
asked whether this would impede the City's relationship with Miami-Dade's SWAT Team, if
Regular City Council Minutes
July 22, 2009 Page 13
the City did not enter into this agreement.
Deputy Chief Miller explained Double Act has an agreement with Miami-Dade SWAT
Team. They have come to the City to ask to use the City of Miami Gardens' name, our officers
(some have been filmed taking care of some children on a scene). They would still be able to
use that footage as part of Miami-Dade, exclusive of the City's participation. They can still
mention City of Miami Gardens as part of their agreement with Miami-Dade because of the
signed agreement and the fact that they are operating within their jurisdiction in Miami-Dade
County. They would not have the City's participation as far as our officers being in the film,
using any images with the City of Miami Gardens uniforms, etc.
Mayor Gibson asked whether the City sends it officers to work with Miami-Dade County
SWAT.
Deputy Chief Miller in response to Mayor Gibson's inquiry responded, "No, we do not"
Mayor Gibson asked why is this item before the Council if the City of Miami Gardens
can be mentioned while filming aMiami-Dade County SWAT operation in the City.
Attorney Dickens in response to Mayor Gibson's inquiry said this agreement is before the
Council because City of Miami Gardens' officers will be involved.
Councilman Gilbert commented, the City will be using Miami-Dade County SWAT
service no matter what.
Deputy Chief Miller replied yes.
Manager Crew said our police department would not be the primary in these operations.
Our officers would only provide backup such as traffic control, and with the case previously
filmed, one of our officers helped with the children while the operation was going on.
Mayor Gibson said there is the other image to be concerned with. She said she did not see
television SWAT operations in the City of Miami Gardens as a great image for the city.
Councilman Gilbert expressed concern with the possibility of someone getting killed
while filming a SWAT operation in the City, and asked why publicize that.
Mayor Gibson said this production would be shown around the world. She reiterated that
she is very concerned about the image of this City. She said any time something negative
happens within the City, the perception from the outside is that the City is not safe.
Councilman Campbell asked currently, what are the roles of our police officers when
Miami-Dade SWAT is conducting an operation without our boundaries.
Deputy Chief Miller said typically it is a Miami Gardens Police Investigation that is
being conducted. The only reason the City use Miami-Dade SWAT is uses is because the City
Regular City Council Minutes
July 22, 2009 Page 14
does not have those resources. The City's Detectives would build a case, prepare a search
warrant utilizing the State Attorney's Office and a Circuit Court Judge. The Miami Gardens
Police Department would schedule with Miami-Dade SWAT to have a team in place. A whole
series of checks and balances would be conducted to ensure everything is being done
appropriately, safely and adequately. The Miami-Dade Police Department is then responsible for
what is called the inner perimeter. They would actually go into the home, and have the
immediate vicinity surrounding the house. The City's officers would be standing by making sure
no innocent person would wonder into the situation. Once everything is secure and there is no
more threat, the initiating officers (City of Miami Gardens) will take over the scene, process any
arrest, seize any drugs, etc.
Councilman Campbell said with that particular scenario, that would happen whether this
item was approved or not.
Deputy Chief Miller said the only thing different, if this agreement was in place would be
that our officers would be interviewed and have some part in the filming.
Motion offered by Councilman Gilbert, seconded by Councilman Campbell to approve
this item.
Councilman Campbell commented whether we approve this item or not, with the typical
scenario mentioned would happen regardless. Secondarily, what this seems to do is give
permission to show our police cars with embalm, badges and patches rather than blocking them
out.
Attorney Dickens shared that the City would also have final review and approval at to
what will be aired on television.
Councilman Gilbert asked what type of show is this.
Deputy Chief Miller said this is a COP reality show.
Councilman Gilbert said he did not see how this works for the City. If this is a reality
show, dealing with police matters, they would want to air situations with drama, and not
situations with happy endings. With that said, he did not feel that the City of Miami Gardens
would not have final say as to what is to be aired.
Councilman Campbell reiterated Miami-Dade County is going to do this regardless.
Since the City does not have its own SWAT Team, which requires the use of Miami-Dade
County's the filming will be done anyway.
Mayor Gibson asked Deputy Chief Miller if he knew whether other municipalities that
use Miami-Dade SWAT have signed a similar agreement.
Deputy Chief Miller said he did not know would try and find out.
Regular City Council Minutes
July 22, 2009 Page 15
Mayor Gibson asked whether the approval of this agreement would have any bearing on
Miami-Dade SWAT providing service to the City.
Deputy Chief Miller in response to Mayor Gibson's inquiry replied no.
Mayor Gibson commented if this has no significance on the service being provided to the
City, she did not understand why this item was before the Council.
Attorney Dickens clarified Miami-Dade County did not bring this agreement it was the
production company.
Deputy Chief Miller clarified this agreement is to allow our officers who initiate the
investigation to participate actively in the filming, by having their pictures taken, being
interviewed, taking pictures with the evidence seized. He opined this could be a positive thing to
show what the City is doing differently now that the City has its own police department, to make
this a safer community. This agreement would allow those officers to take that message forward
on behalf of the City.
Mayor Gibson reiterated that she wanted to know whether other municipalities that utilize
Miami-Dade SWAT had signed such an agreement and if so, under what conditions.
Councilman Bratton asked whether this was a pilot program.
Deputy Chief Miller said he did not think this production would be aired in the United
States but rather in Great Britain.
Councilman Bratton concurred with Mayor Gibson's and stated he wanted to find out if
other municipalities were involved before he voted on this item.
Councilman Williams conveyed his understanding of this concept and voiced his support.
Vice Mayor Watson expressed concern with the image of our community. She opined
the City has done a lot to advance the City in a positive light. She said when we start entering
into agreements with production companies we are putting our destiny in the hands of someone
else. She said she would like to know what type of program this is going to be.
Deputy Chief Miller said the title of the show is Miami SWAT. The show places
emphasis on high profile search warrants.
Councilman Gilbert said he would like to see the show and get some information about it
before he can make a decision.
Motion offered by Councilman Gilbert, seconded by Vice Mayor Watson to pull this item
from the agenda. There being no discussion, the motion to pull this item passed and carried by a
6-0 voice vote.
Regular City Council Minutes
July 22, 2009 Page 16
RESOLUTION N0.2009-153-1098
K-1) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA, APPOINTING OLIVER G.
GILBERT III TO SERVE AS VICE-MAYOR FOR A TERM OF
TWO (2) YEARS EFFECTIVE JULY 22, 2009; PROVIDING FOR
THE ADOPTION OF REPRESENTATIONS; PROVIDING AN
EFFECTIVE DATE (SPONSORED BY MAYOR SHIRLEY
GIBSON)
Mayor Gibson thanked Vice Mayor Watson for her service as Vice Mayor for the past
two years.
Mayor Gibson passed the gavel to Vice Mayor Watson, then offered a motion to amend
the resolution by nominating Councilman Oliver G. Gilbert III, as the next Vice Mayor to serve
for a two year term. This motion was seconded by Councilman Campbell.
There being no discussion this motion passed and carried by a 6-0 vote.
Councilman Campbell: Yes
Councilman Gilbert: Yes
Councilwoman Pritchett: Not present
Councilman Williams: Yes
Councilman Bratton: Yes
Mayor Gibson: Yes
Vice Mayor Watson: Yes
Once the vote was taken Councilwoman Watson relinquished the gavel to Mayor Gibson.
RESOLUTION N0.2009-154-1099
K-2) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF MIAMI GARDENS,
FLORIDA, ESTABLISHING THE PROPOSED MILEAGE RATE
FOR FISCAL YEAR 2009-2010 WITH THE ROLLED-BACK RATE;
SETTING THE DATE, TIME AND PLACE OF PUBLIC
HEARINGS TO CONSIDER THE PROPOSED MILEAGE RATE
AND TENTATIVE BUDGET; PROVIDING FOR DIRECTIONS TO
THE CITY CLERK; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE
DATE. (SPONSORED BY THE CITY MANAGER)
Manager Crew explained this resolution sets the maximum millage at this time. During
the budget hearings in September the Council will consider a final millage. The proposed budget
for FY 09/10 has been completed utilizing the state's rollback rate. Each year the state requires
municipalities to only collect as much tax money as collected the year before. If a municipality
wanted to collect more tax money than the year before an ad has to be published in the
newspaper announcing the City's intentions to raise taxes. Therefore, generally municipalities
Regular City Council Minutes
July 22, 2009 Page 17
use the rollback rate and build their budget around that. By doing that, this is not considered to
be a tax increase, even though the millage may change. Sometimes that millage rate may go
down and sometimes it may go up. This time it will be going up a little bit.
Motion offered by Vice Mayor Gilbert, seconded by Councilman Campbell to approve
this item. There being no discussion, this motion passed and carried by a 6-0 voice vote.
K-4) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA, AUTHORIZING THE CITY
MANAGER AND THE CITY ATTORNEY TO NEGOTIATE AND
EXECUTE, RESPECTIVELY, THAT CERTAIN AGREEMENT
WITH GRANTED PICTURES IN SUBSTANTIAL FORM, A COPY
OF WHICH IS ATTACHED HERETO AS EXHIBIT A;
PROVIDING FOR THE ADOPTION OF REPRESENTATIONS;
PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. (SPONSORED BY THE
CITY MANAGER)
Deputy Chief Miller explained the police department was approached last week by a
subsidiary of FOX Television to do a reality show.
Motion offered by Vice Mayor Gilbert, seconded by Councilwoman Watson to pull this
item. There being no discussion the motion to pull the item passed and carried by a 6-0 voice
vote.
(L) REPORTS OF CITY MANAGER/CITY ATTORNEY/CITY CLERK
L-1) City Manager's Monthly Report
Manager Crew explained in the back of the proposed budget book is approximately ten
pages of definitions. He asked that the Council utilize the definitions outlined on those pages to
familiarize themselves with the various terminologies used in the budget.
(M) REPORTS OF MAYOR AND COUNCIL MEMBERS
Councilman Bratton asked how many Red Light Cameras were currently in operation
within the City and at what locations.
Manager Crew said currently there are five Red Light Cameras in operations. The
locations are northbound on NW 27t" Avenue and 183`a Street; NW 2na Avenue (441) and 183`a
Street, all four directions (north, south, east and west). Two additional Red Light cameras will
be installed at: northbound on NW 27t" Avenue and 211t" Street and northbound on NW 183`a
Street and 17~" Avenue.
Vice Mayor Gilbert asked whether notification would be provided prior to issuing tickets
at these new locations.
Manager Crew said the City will be publishing these new locations in the newspaper. In
addition, signage will be posted.
Regular City Council Minutes
July 22, 2009 Page 18
Mayor Gibson announced the Council will be in recess for the month of August.
Vice Mayor Gibson thanked Mayor Gibson for her nomination and the Council for
ratifying that nomination and appointment him as Vice Mayor.
(N) WRITTEN REQUESTS, PETITIONS & OTHER WRITTEN
COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE PUBLIC
There was none.
(O) ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business to come before this Body, and upon a motion being duly
made by Councilman Bratton, seconded by Councilman Campbell the meeting adjourned at 9:15
p.m.
Attest:
~f~ ~ ~
Ronetta Taylor, MMC~;,~' ity Clerk
S Gibs n, Mayor
Regular City Council Minutes
July 22, 2009 Page 19