HomeMy WebLinkAboutMay 12, 2004 INDEX
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
May 12,2004
1 Called to Order/Roll Call of Members.................................... Page 1
2. Invocation..................................................................... Page 1
5. Pledge of Allegiance......................................................... Page 1
6. Approval of Minutes......................................................... Page 1
Approve Minutes of City Council Meeting of:
Regular Council Meeting of April 28,2004.............................. Page 1
5. Agenda/Order of Business (Additions/Deletions/Amendments....... Page 1
6. Special Presentation(s)
6A) FDOT—Intelligent Transportation System........................ Page 2-3
6B) Chris Wallace........................................................... Page 3
6C) Miami-Dade County Fire Department.............................. Page 3-6
6D) Legislative Update from Tallahassee, Florida Yolanda Cash
Jackson........................................................................ Pa e g 6
6E) Miami Gardens/Carol City District Police Department Monthly
Status Report..................................................................
Page 6-8
7. Ordinance(s) For First Reading: There were none...................... Page 8
8. Ordinance(s) for Second Reading: There were none................... Page 8
9. Public Comment.............................................................. Page 8
10. Resolutions:
1 OA) Res. #2004-60-110 Affirming its continued support for the Citizen
Independent Transportation Trust("CITI").............................. Page 8-9
1OB) Res. #2004-61-111 Ratifying the City Manager's award and
execution of a contract with Sound Performance, Inc. ................. Page 9-10
1OC) Res. #2004-62-112 Authorizing the City Manager and City Clerk
to execute and attest,respectively, a continuing contract with Keith and
Schnars, P.A. ................................................................. Page 10-13
11. Report of the City Attorney(None)....................................... Page 13
12. Reports of City Manager................................................... Page 13-14
13. Reports of Mayor and Council Members
13A) General Reports from Mayor and Council Members............ Page 14-15
14. Requests, Petitions&Other Communications From the Public:
14A) Public Comments..................................................... Page 15
15. Special Presentation(s) (There were none)............................... Page 15-16
16. Adjournment.................................................................. Page 16
CITY OF MIAMI GARDENS
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
May 12, 2004
1. CALL TO ORDER/ROLL CALL OF MEMBERS:
The City Council of the City of Miami Gardens,Florida,met in regular session on Wednesday,May
12,2004,beginning at 7:08 p.m., in Suite 201 of the Administrative Offices, 17801 NW 2"d Avenue,Miami
Gardens,Florida.
The following members of the City Council were present: Mayor Shirley Gibson,Vice Mayor Aaron
Campbell,Jr.,and Council members Audrey J.King,Barbara Watson,Melvin L.Bratton,Sharon Pritchett and
Oscar Braynon,H.
Also in attendance were: City Manager Dr. Danny O. Crew, Assistant City Manager Horace A.
McHugh,City Attorney Sonja K. Knighton, and City Clerk Ronetta Taylor.
2. INVOCATION:
Mr. Oliver Gilbert delivered the Invocation.
3. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE:
The Pledge of Allegiance was recited in unison.
4. APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
4A) Approve Minutes of City Council Meeting of:
Regular Council Meeting - April 28, 2004
It was moved by Councilwoman Watson, seconded by Councilman Bratton to approve the
minutes with the following additions/deletions: Page 7,line 30,change the address to read: 17204
NW 49th Place,Miami; instead of 17204 NW 491h Place,Miami Gardens. There being no further
discussion, the motion passed and carried by a 7-0 vote.
5. AGENDA/ORDER OF BUSINESS (ADDITIONS/DELETIONS/
AMENDMENTS):
Councilman Bratton referenced Agenda Item 6. "Special Presentation"and related that the
agenda should be amended to read: Item Nos. 6A,613 and 6C,instead of Item Nos. 6A,613 and 613.
Mayor Gibson indicated that Ms. Yolanda Cash Jackson would be making a presentation to
the City Council at tonight's meeting,upon her arrival. She requested that the Agenda be amended
to include Ms. Cash Jackson's presentation under Item No. 15, entitled Special Presentations.
It was moved by Vice Mayor Campbell, seconded by Councilwoman Watson to amend the
official Agenda as requested. There being no further discussion,the motion passed and carried by
a 7-0 vote.
Miami Gardens City Council
Minutes—May 12,2004 Page 1 of 16
6. SPECIAL PRESENTATION(S):
6A) FDOT—Intelligent Transportation System
Mr. Dan P. Murphy,Vice President of Public Relations for Kelley Swofford Roy,Inc,with
offices at 3399 Ponce de Leon Boulevard,Coral Gables,Florida,appeared before the City Council,
representing the Florida Department Of Transportation. Mr.Murphy presented a brief presentation
on FDOT's Transportation Initiative,which will greatly impact this community in 2005.
Mr.Murphy centered his presentation around the Ramp Mover,which is one of the initiatives
being implemented by FDOT. The Ramp Mover involves the utilization of a green light as a traffic
device,which assist with the flow of traffic onto the entrance tramp. This traffic device will provide
consistency and efficiency when merging into main arterial traffic. This system should be
functioning as early as October 2004.
Councilwoman King conveyed support of the implementation of such a system.
Councilwoman Watson asked,once this system is implemented,how will the law be enforced
to ensure that all motorists stop at the entrance ramp traffic light.
Mr.Murphy said the Highway Patrol will have jurisdiction and is the enforcement authority
to ticket violators.
Councilwoman Watson asked how would this information be disseminated to the public so
that they can be aware of these changes.
Mr.Murphy said that FDOT would be sending out newsletters. Brochures and flyers will be
sent to all municipalities,particularly those along the freeway.
Mr.McHugh,Assistant City informed the Council members that FDOT wanted to make this
presentation to the City Council in an effort to advise the Council member of pending and future
Florida Department of Transportation projects. Ultimately, the City Council will be getting calls
about the little devices already installed, by FDOT, at the entrance ramps.
Councilman Bratton inquired as to whether FDOT was hiring employees to work on this
project.
Mr. Carlos Sanchez, a representative of FDOT appeared before the City Council to answer
Councilman Bratton's question. He said the Department is in the process of opening a new
Transportation Management Center and as part of that effort; FDOT has been hiring operators to
manage the Center on a 24/7 day basis.
Ms. Sylvia Daughtrey of 2759 NW 196t' Street, Miami Gardens appeared before the City
Council to ask where the job announcements for FDOT were being advertised.
Mr. Sanchez said that FDOT is a state agency and as such,any job announcements are placed
on the State's website and newspapers. He advised Ms. Daughtrey that he would provide her with
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Minutes—May 12,2004 Page 2 of 16
additional information about the job listing.
Mr. Murphy shared that FDOT will come back at a later date to provide an update on this
particular project, as well as other pending projects.
Councilwoman Pritchett requested that Mr.Murphy bring printed information to share with
everyone at their next appearance before the City Council.
613) Chris Wallace—City of Miami Gardens Financial Report
Manager Crew put emphasis on the fact that the financial reporting process is not complete as
yet; and as such is not going to be 100% accurate. What administration tried to do is provide
information on the cash flow situation for the City; that is, what money the City has collected and
what money the City has spent. This report will not show the overall expenses because it is missing
the biggest part of the City's budget, which is the money that Miami-Dade County collects and
spends on behalf of the City. The 22 Million dollars being charged to the City for police services is
not listed. He shared that Mr. Wallace and his staff has gone through hundreds of receipts in an
effort to place those expenditures under the appropriate line items within departmental budgets. Two
documents are being provided to the City Council: 1)an overview of 02/03 budget;and 2)a year-to-
date accounting on the 03/04 budget.
Mr. Chris Wallace, a representative of New Community Strategies, with offices at 4801
South University Drive,Ft.Lauderdale,Florida,appeared before the City Council to further expound
on this process. He related that the City has met several times with Miami-Dade County and voiced
assurance that those issues with Miami-Dade County will be resolved. He conveyed anticipation of
having all of the City's transactions logged by the end of July. The biggest challenge for the City is
with Miami-Dade County's Records Division. Miami-Dade County has basically provided the City
with a spread sheet, for each month with three different types of activities. The City is taking this
information at face value;however,proper documentation is needed in order to reconcile the activity.
Mr. Wallace referenced the Balance Sheet for FY 02/03 and indicated that based on the
City's transactions,there is money left over in both funds. He commented that Miami-Dade County
is making a claim against that money,and then some. He related that for FY 02/03,the City had in
its General Fund approximately 1.2 Million dollars fund balance; the Transportation fund had a
balance of approximately $332,400.00.
Mr.Wallace said that New Community Strategies is making its best effort to clear the City's
financial records up and credited the City's administration with doing an excellent job in maintaining
the records. He shared that his partner, Dr. Rosenbaum is of the opinion that the City of Miami
Gardens is a very viable City.
Manager Crew related that most of the money the City will be collecting(e.g.Occupational
License,Alarm Registration and Commercial Waste Franchise)will be credited to FY 04/05 budget.
He said that it is extremely important to get FY 02/03 budget ratified first.
6BC) Miami-Dade County Fire Department
Miami Gardens City Council
Minutes—May 12,2004 Page 3 of 16
Operating Division Chief Dave Downey, with offices at 2270 NE Miami Gardens Drive,
Miami, appeared before the City Council to provide a brief overview on the latest information
regarding Fire Rescue Services. One of the areas a lot of attention is being focused on is with
response time. The average response time for the City of Miami Gardens for 2003 is 3.99 minutes.
The life threatening response time is 6.03 minutes. There are three response stations that exist within
the boundaries of Miami Gardens. There are a total of seven stations that provide secondary
response into the City of Miami Gardens. An advance life support fire engine to the Bunch Park
Station is being planned for this fiscal year.
Councilman Bratton asked what type of trucks were being utilized at Fire Stations 11,38 54.
Division Chief Downey stated that Station 11 has a three person Advanced Life Support
Rescue and a fifty foot fire engine;Station 3 8 has a three person Advanced Life Support Rescue and
four person advanced life support fire engine,in addition is staffed with two paramedics;Station 54
is a three person Advanced Life Support Rescue. In the FY 04/05 budget,a fire engine is proposed
for Station 54.
Councilman Bratton asked what formula is being used to determine where a fire engine
should go.
Arthur Holmes,Assistant Chief of Operations,with offices at 9300 NW 41St Street,Miami,
appeared before the City Council to further expound on this issue. He said there are very specific
formulas being used to determine where fire engines are placed. He cited development activity,
demands on outside units coming in, proximity of surrounding units, the population density, and
travel time, as variables currently in use to determine where a fire engine is needed. He said there
are currently 12 different variables being used and all have to be interconnected.Once the computer
version comes on line within the next six months there will be approximately 22-24 different
variables being used.
Councilman Bratton asked what's the total number of calls for service for Stations 51 and 54.
Assistant Chief Holmes replied that there were a total of 6,142 calls for Station 51 and,a total
of 7,022 calls for Station 54. He shared that each time a fire engine is added to a fire station the cost
is approximately 1.8 million dollars. He related that currently,Homestead is the area with the most
activity.
Councilwoman Pritchett asked how many fires were reported within the City of Miami
Gardens for the last three years.
Division Chief Downey related that his figures are reflected from 1997 to 2001 for a total of
153 structure fires; 2002 had 112 structure fires and; in 2003 there were 111 structure fires.
Councilwoman Pritchett asked how many fires for that same time period were reported in
Homestead.
Division Chief Downey related that he'd pulled numbers specifically for this area and advised
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Minutes—May 12,2004 Page 4 of 16
Councilwoman Pritchett that he would provide this information.
Assistant Chief Holmes indicated that there are three fire stations to cover approximately 30-
46 miles from Homestead and points north. There is one fire station to cover Homestead and Florida
City. He related that the County has been,for the last four years planning,to purchase land to build
an additional fire station. He informed Councilman Bratton that the fire engine(suppression unit)
he's(Bratton)been requesting for the past seven years will be in place within the next six months.
Councilwoman King referenced the fire that had gutted Ms. Pratt's home and questioned
whether the response time was delayed due to the fact that there were no suppression units in close
proximity.
Division Chief Downey shared that he'd personally responded to that fire. He said a fire
rescue truck arrived on the scene within three minutes;Engine One from Miami Lakes arrived four
minutes later. He said that the fire department had responded within the standard time. He said that
he could not explain why there was so much damage to the home. Fires are living entities and
sometimes take on a life of their own.
Councilwoman Watson inquired about the age of the equipment currently being utilized by
the fire stations servicing the City of Miami Gardens.
Division Chief Downey said that Miami-Dade County has a very proactive replacement
program in effect. Every one of the fire trucks has been replaced.
Ms.Faye Davis,residing at 670 NE 195th Street,Miami,Florida,was afforded an opportunity
to express her concerns about the number of fires occurring on the west side of Miami Gardens. She
provided the City Council with data to affirm her assertion that the west side of Miami Gardens was
in dire need of fire service.
Assistant Chief Holmes responded to Ms.Davis' concerns and said that he did not like to set
communities against communities but tried to provide the best possible service to all of Miami-Dade
County.
Mayor Gibson emphasized that the suppression unit,Assistant Chief Holmes gave mention
to,is dependent upon funding to be allocated from Miami-Dade County. She asked,if Miami-Dade
County did not allocate the requested funds, but a smaller amount would the fire department
determine where to allocate those funds?
Assistant Chief Holmes said that if the funding allocated is less than what was requested,
then some things may need to be changed. He said that everything is subject to priorities.
Mr. Carl Latimore, residing at 20520 NW 15th Avenue, Miami Gardens, Florida, was
afforded an opportunity to voice his concerns about the 911 service and the time in which a call is
received and service dispatched.
Division Chief Downey shared that the 911 service,the police and fire departments are all in
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Minutes—May 12,2004 Page 5 of 16
the same building. The average call for service is less than one minute. Even while the 911 operator
is talking to the person requesting service that request for service is being sent out.
Mayor Gibson thanked Assistant Chief Holmes and Chief Downey for their presentation.
Assistant Chief Holmes and Division Chief Downey both apologized for not attending the
last City Council meeting. They both indicated that they were not informed to be here.
Mayor Gibson asked if there were any objections from the Council to allow Ms. Yolanda
Cash Jackson to make her presentation now as opposed to the original request, which listed her
presentation under Item No. 15.
There were not objections from the Council members to allow Ms.Cash Jackson to make her
presentation.
6D) Legislative Update from Tallahassee, Florida—Yolanda Cash Jackson
Ms. Cash Jackson appeared before the City Council and related that the City Council's
enthusiasm and commitment, along with Mr. Green's visit to Tallahassee really made a difference
and an impact on this Legislative Session. She provided the Council with a summary on those things
that were accomplished in Tallahassee. She further gave special acknowledgement to the City's
management staff. The State allocated$200,000.00 to the City of Miami Gardens for water projects.
She encouraged the City Council members to stay involved with the Legislative Process.
Ms.Cash Jackson further credited Mr.Green's astuteness in regard to a Bill being introduced
in Tallahassee to rename Miami Gardens Drive to Wilkie Ferguson Boulevard. As a result of the
City of Miami Gardens adoption of a resolution,this Bill was revised and the street designation was
moved to Honey Hill Drive (199th Street from 27`I'to 47`I' Avenue).
Mayor Gibson thanked Ms.Cash Jackson and her staff for their lobbying efforts on behalf of
the City of Miami Gardens, during the Council's visit in Tallahassee during Dade/Broward Days.
She related that Ms. Cash Jackson,Mr.Book and Mr.Pitman all provided pro bono lobbyist services
to the City of Miami Gardens. She emphasized the importance of having a paid lobbyist in
Tallahassee lobbying on behalf of the City.
6E) Miami Gardens/Carol City District Police Department Monthly Status Report.
Major Marshall appeared before the City Council to report that crime continues to decrease in
the City of Miami Gardens and is down 8% across the Board. Sexual battery is down 44%,
residential and commercial burglaries are down an average of 21%, auto thefts are down 19%.
Robberies decreased from March to April by 15%. Two separate Specialized Police Reports were
provided to the City of Miami Gardens. The Alarm user data base was forwarded to the City of
Miami Gardens on April 28, 2004, at no cost to the City.
Captain Rifkin appeared before the City Council to report on the police department's
participation at citizen community based organizations, private businesses, public and private
schools and daycare centers.
Miami Gardens City Council
Minutes—May 12,2004 Page 6 of 16
Major Marshall announced that on October 1,2004,the City of Miami Gardens will receive a
federal grant for approximately$30,000.00. A 25%match is required,which the City Manager has
indicated will be provided. This means that the police department would have approximately
$40,000.00 for police related activities.
Councilman Braynon asked about the police operation that took place two weeks prior.
Major Marshall related that Miami-Dade County along with the Broward County Sheriff's
Office conducted a police operation for the northern portion of Miami Dade County and the Southern
portion of Broward County. Miami-Dade County made over 120 arrests, with BSO making
approximately 20 arrests. This is a joint venture therefore more operations are anticipated to occur
throughout the year.
Vice Mayor Campbell made reference to the school s' summer break and suggested,that in
preparations of the summer months,that a city rally be conducted to address black on black crime.
Major Marshall indicated that on June 12,2004,Miami-Dade County will be providing a free
service of etching vehicle VIN numbers on the car's windshield. This event will take place at the
Carol Mart on 183`d Street NW 27th Avenue. He related that the police department has set aside
$100,000.00 to assist with the summer break. In addition,a Neighborhood Accountability Board has
been started with Jesus People's Ministries and the Miami-Dade State Attorney's Office. This
program allows for juveniles that commit certain crimes to go through the Jesus People Ministries
Program instead of the Juvenile System. Upon completion of this program the State Attorney's
office will not prosecute,therefore, the arrest never shows up in the system.
Vice Mayor Campbell suggested that a representative from the City of Miami Gardens be
involved in this process.
Mayor Gibson related that she'd spoken with Major Marshall and Captain Rifkin about
recognizing their police officers of the month. She related that she would entertain a motion to have
the City of Miami Gardens recognize those officers as well.
Councilman Bratton asked Ms. Cash Jackson to come forward, whereby he officially
recognized and announced that she is now an equity owner and partner in her law firm.
Ms. Cash Jackson was congratulated by all.
Mayor Gibson passed the gavel to Vice Mayor Campbell in order to place a motion on the
floor. She moved that the City of Miami Gardens Council would recognize police officers from the
Miami Gardens/Carol City District Police Department and that it be done on a continuing basis. This
motion was seconded by Councilman Braynon. There being no further discussion, the motion
passed and carried by a 7-0 vote.
Councilman Bratton: Yes
Councilman Braynon: Yes
Councilwoman King: Yes
Miami Gardens City Council
Minutes—May 12,2004 Page 7 of 16
Councilwoman Pritchett: Yes
Councilwoman Watson: Yes
Mayor Gibson: Yes
Vice Mayor Campbell: Yes
Councilwoman Watson asked City Manager Crew to provide Major Marshall with the City of
Miami Gardens decal so that it can be worn along with the Miami-Dade County decal, by those
police officers servicing the City.
Major Marshall indicated that his police department would have no problem with putting this
decal on their uniforms.
ORDINANCE(S) FOR FIRST READING:
There were none
7. ORDINANCES) FOR SECOND READING (PUBLIC
HEARINGS):
There were none
9. PUBLIC COMMENT- 10 MINUTES
Mr. Anselm Smith of 721 NW 187th Drive, Miami Gardens, Florida, was afforded an
opportunity to showcase the premiere of F.A.C.T Newsletter. He emphasized that the people who
make up F.A.C.T are all citizens of Miami-Gardens, with no political agenda.
Mr. Wendell James, residing at 18820 NW 29t' Place, Miami Gardens, Florida, appeared
before the City Council to voice his opinion that Miami Carol City High School needed to be rebuilt.
He suggested that the City Council put pressure on the Miami-Dade County School Board to address
Miami Carol City High School.
Mayor Gibson concurred with Mr.James comments regarding the rebuilding of Miami Carol
City High School. She related that perhaps this District School Board member can be invited to the
City Council meeting to address this concern.
10. RESOLUTIONS:
RESOLUTION NO. 2004-60-110
10A) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI
GARDENS,FLORIDA,AFFIRMING ITS CONTINUED SUPPORT FOR THE
CITIZENS' INDEPENDENT TRANSPORTATION TRUST ("CITT"), AS
ADOPTED BY THE MIAMI-DADE COUNTY BOARD OF COUNTY
COMMISSIONERS ON JULY 9,2002,PURSUANT TO ORDINANCE NO.02-
117; FURTHER URGING THE MIAMI-DADE COUNTY BOARD OF
COUNTY COMMISSIONERS NOT TO DISBAND THE CITT, OR
OTHERWISE TAKE ANY ACTION WHICH WOULD HAVE THE EFFECT
OF SUBSTANTIALLY ALTERING OR DILUTING THE POWERS AND
Miami Gardens City Council
Minutes—May 12,2004 Page 8 of 16
AUTHORITY OF THE CITT; PROVIDING FOR THE ADOPTION OF
REPRESENTATIONS;PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.(SPONSORED
BY VICE MAYOR CAMPBELL)
Moved by Councilman Bratton,seconded by Vice Mayor Campbell to approve this resolution.
Councilman Braynon asked that the memorandum be corrected to indicate that Ms.Wright is a
member of CTAC and not the CITT.
At the conclusion of this discussion,the motion passed and carried by a 7-0 vote.
Councilman Braynon: Yes
Vice Mayor Campbell: Yes
Councilwoman King: Yes
Councilwoman Pritchett: Yes
Councilwoman Watson: Yes
Councilman Bratton: Yes
Mayor Gibson: Yes
RESOLUTION NO.2004-61-111
10B) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI
GARDENS,FLORIDA,RATIFYING THE CITY MANAGER'S AWARD AND
EXECUTION OF A CONTRACT WITH SOUND PERFORMANCE, INC.,
FOR THE INSTALLATION OF AUDIO AND VIDEO EQUIPMENT AT
CITY HALL,A COPY OF WHICH IS ATTACHED HERETO AS EXHIBIT
"A"; PROVIDING FOR INSTRUCTIONS TO CITY CLERK; PROVIDING
FOR THE ADOPTION OF REPRESENTATIONS; PROVIDING AN
EFFECTIVE DATE. (SPONSORED BY THE CITY MANAGER)
Mr. McHugh the Assistant City Manager recounted the events leading up to this item being
placed on the official agenda.
It was moved by Councilman Braynon, seconded by Councilwoman Watson to approve this
item.
Councilman Braynon referenced the video equipment component of the bid award and asked
for clarification as to whether there would be a screen and a camera or a projection and a screen.
Mr. McHugh said the equipment would include a pull down screen and a projection.
Councilwoman Pritchett asked that the provision of Ordinance No.2004-17,allowing for the
City Manager to make emergency purchases be read into the record.
Manager Crew read "Purchases arising out of or because of emergencies which shall be
defined as a situation, occurrence or matter necessitating immediate or quick action and not
permitting adequate time to utilize the competitive bidding process." He explained,in this particular
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Minutes—May 12,2004 Page 9 of 16
case the contractor was putting up the walls therefore,the City had to move quickly. He related that
the City did go out and get three competitive quotes.
At the conclusion of this discussion,the motion passed and carried by a 6-1 vote.
Vice Mayor Campbell: Yes
Councilwoman King: Yes
Councilwoman Pritchett: No
Councilwoman Watson: Yes
Councilman Bratton: Yes
Councilman Braynon: Yes
Mayor Gibson: Yes
RESOLUTION NO.2004-62-112
10C) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI
GARDENS,FLORIDA,AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER AND CITY
CLERK TO EXECUTE AND ATTEST,RESPECTIVELY,A CONTINUING
CONTRACT WITH KEITH AND SCHNARS, P.A. FOR GENERAL
CONSULTING ENGINEERING AND ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES,
PIGGYBACKING ON AN AGREEMENT BETWEEN KEITH AND
SCHNARS, P.A. AND THE CITY OF FORT LAUDERDALE, A COPY OF
WHICH IS ATTACHED HERETO AS EXHIBIT "A"; PROVIDING FOR
INSTRUCTIONS TO CITY CLERK;PROVIDING FOR THE ADOPTION OF
REPRESENTATIONS;PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.(SPONSORED
BY THE CITY MANAGER)
Manager Crew explained that the City was in the process of undertaking some landscaping
projects in FDOT's right-of-ways, including entrance signs to the City. One of the FDOT's
requirements is the obtaining of a permit,which is an extremely detailed process and very specific
in nature. The City had approached FDOT and inquired about future projects in the City. One of
those projects is the repaving of 441. The City asked that before the repaving is done, if the City
could address the irrigation system for future City landscaping projects. FDOT put the City in touch
with one of their subcontractors for this purpose. Keith and Schnars is the contractor that does
FDOT's landscaping design. FDOT is using this same contractor for the 183`d Street Improvement
Project. He related that Ft.Lauderdale went through the bid process and Keith and Schnars was the
top ranked firm selected to provide consulting services for their landscape design projects. He said
there was no money involved with this contract at this particular time.
Councilwoman King inquired as to what firms were other cities using.
Manager Crew related that Post Buckley Shuch and Jernigan was another firm being used by
FDOT.
Councilwoman Watson thanked administration for bringing this matter forward in order to
have the proper infrastructure in place prior to the re-paving project taking place. She opined that
administration has used a great deal of foresight in this endeavor. She related that nothing saddens
Miami Gardens City Council
Minutes—May 12,2004 Page 10 of 16
her more than seeing a street repaved and then dug up again in order to address another
improvement. She referenced page 1,line 19,of the Resolution and indicated that the date should
be March 15, 2001 instead of March 15, 2004.
Councilwoman Pritchett asked if the agreement (Ft. Lauderdale's) provided by
administration,for a three year time frame,which started in 2001,has been renewed,and if so were
there changes.
Attorney Knighton related that the agreement for the City will start from the time it's
executed by the City. She conveyed that she did not know if changes were made in the Ft.
Lauderdale contract. She said the contract was renewable from year to year.
Mr. Bruce Reed, with offices at 5600 N. Andrews Avenue, Ft. Lauderdale, Florida,
representing Keith and Schnars appeared before the City Council to relate that the contract with the
City of Ft. Lauderdale was amended in February 2004 for another three year extension, with no
revisions in the contract. All the fees and conditions remain the same.
Attorney Knighton related that a provision would be added to the City's contract as to the
terms so that there is no question.
Councilman Braynon asked if this was only for FDOT project.
Manager Crew said that this contract could be for any City of Miami Gardens projects.
Mayor Gibson related that there may be other projects going on within the city that could be
considered smaller and separate projects, which can be contracted out to smaller companies; this
would be more inclusive for all.
Mr. Benjamin S. Essien,with offices at 4715 NW 157th Street, Suite 202,Miami Gardens,
Florida appeared before the City Council to express concern with the awarding of this contract to
Keith and Schnars. He related that there are other qualified firms under contract with FDOT
besides Keith and Schnars. He said that if the City Manager had asked the City of North Miami or
Opa-locks about the firms those cities utilizes,the City would have gotten an excellent listing of
Engineers and Architects. He expressed concern with giving Keith and Schnars a continuing
contract for three years and opined that it is not in the best interest of the City. He suggested having
a pool of two or three consultants on board. He suggested moving forward with this contract but
not on a continuing basis.
Attorney Knighton related that Mr. Essien is providing the Council with some correct
information. She said the City can certainly enter into continuing contract with as many firms as it
desires. She related that cities typically have more than one person that they have a continuing
contract with, depending on the projects.
Manager Crew concurred with Attorney Knighton's comments.
Mayor Gibson related that she would support doing something like that,so that the City will
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Minutes—May 12,2004 Page 11 of 16
be inclusive.
Manager Crew suggested going through this process in October when the Public Works
Director is on board.
Mayor Gibson said that she did not have a problem with directing the City Manager to look
at other firms to be a part of that list of Engineers/Architects to be selected for continuing contracts
with the City of Miami Gardens.
Mr. McHugh related that one of the benefits of contracting with Keith and Schnars is that
the City is able to get 2001 prices as opposed to 2004 prices. He opined that financially,this is a
great service to the City.
Mayor Gibson put emphasis on the fact that the City can go through the same process that
was used to get this firm, to get three more firms that can be smaller firms that will have an
opportunity to do work for Miami Gardens.
At the conclusion of this discussion, it was moved by Councilwoman Watson, seconded by
Vice Mayor Campbell to approve this item. This motion passed and carried by a 4-3 vote.
Councilwoman King said that she'd like to see some smaller companies involved.She further
related that she took Mr. Essein's comments to heart.
Councilwoman King: No
Councilwoman Pritchett paraphrased comments made by Mr. Essien, "This is the first
instance in which a City is just retaining one consultant." Mr. Essien offered a suggestion that said,
"Allow Keith and Schnars to go forward with this particular project,but issue a continuing contract a
little bit later." She related that having been empowered with that information, which seems very
rational, she was voting no.
Councilwoman Pritchett: No
Councilwoman Watson stated that she was voting yes for this item. She said"I know that we
are a new city and we need to start with one. This is not a contract that is going to be limited to just
this one particular company. All the bids and all the jobs are not going to be directed to one
company. It is going to be a number of companies and I do hope a minimum of three will be in that
pool. I would love to see some other firms come forward and receive a very like type contract;cause
we are going to need more than one firm. We have to start with one. We are not ten years old,
where we have zeroed in on one company. We are allowing ourselves to start with one and whatever
it takes, if there are other contractors out there that Mr. Essein's company is working with and if he
has a contract with anyone else,I would like to see us follow the same procedures and allowing those
companies to come forward as well. We have to start with one. Therefore I vote yes.
Councilwoman Watson: Yes
Councilman Bratton asked if there was an escape clause in this contract.
Miami Gardens City Council
Minutes—May 12,2004 Page 12 of 16
Attorney Knighton replied that there was an escape clause.
Councilman Bratton: Yes
Councilman Braynon opined that this should not be a continuing contract. He said that the
City should look at more contractors.
Councilman Braynon: No
Vice Mayor Campbell: Yes
Mayor Gibson reiterated to staff to repeat the same process that was done for this contractor
and have some additional Engineers/Architects to be a part of this process in Miami Gardens. This
would allow an opportunity for other firms to be on Board.
Mayor Gibson: Yes
11. REPORT OF THE CITY ATTORNEY
None
12. REPORTS OF CITY MANAGER
Manager Crew reported on the major efforts being made by Code Enforcement to go after
illegal street vendors. This is a cohesive effort between the City's Code Enforcement Division and
the Miami Gardens/Carol City District Police Department.
Manager Crew reported that the City is starting to work on Graffiti case,with over 200 cases
being opened within the last month.
Manager Crew reported on the City's applications with Safe Neighborhood Parks Funding.
He related that SNP did not approve three of the City's applications for grant funding. However,
SNP did approve$344,000.00 to complete a second recreation center at Scott Park. Approximately
$600,000.00 was already allocated for this purpose. It is anticipated that this project will go out for
bid within the next two months. A brand new recreation facility is being built at Brentwood Park,
using a combination of FEMA funds and SNP funds, and Impact Fees.
Manager Crew reported on the bus shelters and indicated that Miami-Dade County has
entered into a new contract with an Italian Firm to build bus shelters throughout Miami-Dade
County. Miami-Dade County has agreed to share the revenue from those shelters with the City of
Miami Gardens. Ultimately, an Interlocal agreement will be brought back for this Council's
approval. The contract with the county is for 350 Million dollars. The City stands to net
approximately $35 Million dollars over a ten year period. The contract also includes trash
receptacles,which are to be maintained on a weekly basis.
Manager Crew related that after meeting with Miami-Dade County it was discovered that
approximately seven million dollars in Safe Neighborhood Parks Funding,that the County was not
able to spend on the City's 16 parks, is now available to the City. He related that he will be
Miami Gardens City Council
Minutes—May 12,2004 Page 13 of 16
proposing a number of Charretts, in the areas,where these funds are allocated,to find out what the
neighbors want to see in those parks.
Manager Crew reported on the Entrance Signs Project and related that designs will be
brought before the City Council for its approval. He further related that there are funds in the
Transportation Fund for projects that can be undertaken by the City. He related that in next year's
budget it is anticipated that Street paving and sidewalk repair programs, as well as major right-of-
way landscaping projects will be addressed.
Manager Crew also reported that he is now a homeowner in the City of Miami Gardens.
Manager Crew related that the Clean Up event,which had several hundred volunteers,held
on May 8, 2004 was a tremendous success.
13. REPORTS OF MAYOR AND COUNCIL MEMBERS
12A) GENERAL REPORTS FROM MAYOR AND COUNCIL
MEMBERS
Mayor Gibson reported on the National Black Mayors Conference she'd attended in
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. She related that over 500 Black Mayors were in attendance. She
encouraged the City Council participation in future events. She further announced that the Mayor's
State of the City Address will be held at Florida Memorial College on Thursday, May 13, 2004,
beginning with a reception at 6:30 p.m., with the Address scheduled for 8:00 p.m.
Manager Crew related that the first City Newsletter will be available for distribution on
tomorrow. This Newsletter will also be in the Miami Herald Neighbor's Section(Zones 5 and 6).
Councilman Braynon shared that his sister (who lives in Philadelphia) was very proud to
know that her Mayor(Mayor Gibson)was in Philadelphia.
Councilwoman Pritchett shared that on Sunday, May 9, 2004, this City Council awarded
Commendations to the Junior members of the (Panamanian American Association of Florida)
PAAF, of which Mr. Wendell James is a founding member.
Councilman Bratton inquired about the status of the Crime Watch/Neighborhood Watch.
Major Marshall indicated his understanding that Mr. Clausell was working on this through
the City and not through the police department.
Vice Mayor Campbell related that this is under the umbrella of the Citizens Corp.,which Mr.
Clausell chairs. The City adopted a resolution appointing Mr. Clausell as its representative.
Vice Mayor Campbell commented on why he voted"yes"on Item No. l OC. He opined that
it is important that the Council is fiscal responsible. However it is also important for the residents to
see some tangible things happening within the City. He said if it makes sense,he is always going to
vote yes. He further related that the Revenue Enhancement Meeting scheduled for May 24, 2004,
Miami Gardens City Council
Minutes—May 12,2004 Page 14 of 16
has been cancelled.
Councilwoman Watson related that she wanted to make certain that when the City put its
Public Works Department together,that there is cohesiveness about how the street repairs are done.
She related that she has a problem with paving a street and then digging it up to make more repairs.
She also asked if there was a possibility of acquiring a street sweeper to clean City streets.
Manager Crew indicated that he might know a way to get the funds for a street sweeper and
not have it come out of the City's General Fund.
Councilwoman Watson further indicated that the sidewalks along the major corridors needed
to be pressure cleaned.
Councilwoman King announced that the American Cancer Society Relay for Life Event will
be held Friday and Saturday, May 14-15, 2004. She encouraged every one to come out.
14. REQUESTS,PETITIONS& OTHER COMMUNICATIONS FROM
THE PUBLIC:
14A) PUBLIC COMMENTS - 20 MINUTES
Mr.Anselm Smith appeared before the City Council to express his concerns about the street
vendors along 27`h Avenue and 151St Street. He encouraged the City to find one location for these
vendors to operate. He further suggested putting together a Code Enforcement Board for the City of
Miami Gardens.
Mr. Benjamin Essein appeared before the City Council to advise that if they have concerns
with the work being done by a contractor on the road projects within the City of Miami Gardens to
call Miami-Dade County.
Mr. Christopher Steers, Assistant to the City Manager appeared before the City Council to
further expound on this subject. He related that at the request of Councilman Bratton,administration
did make contact with the Construction Manager that deals with those issues. It is anticipated that
within this week,a list of all those projects that are open and the status will be provided to the City.
Mr. Wendell James, residing at 18820 NW 29th Place, Miami Gardens, Florida, appeared
before the City Council to express his concern with the installation of the emergency purchase for
telephone system and sound and video system being installed at the new City Hall complex. He
further suggested the relocation of the trees being removed from 183rd Street. He further
recommended utilizing shade trees instead of Royal Palm Trees. He further thanked the City and
Mayor Gibson for providing Commendations to the youth members of PAAF. He further
emphasized the importance of circulating the money within the City by utilizing those vendors
located in Miami Gardens. He further congratulated the City on the success of the Clean up event,
held on May 8, 2004.
15. SPECIAL PRESENTATION(S)
Miami Gardens City Council
Minutes—May 12,2004 Page 15 of 16
There were none.
16. ADJOURNMENT:
There being no further business to come before this Body, and upon being duly moved by
Councilman Bratton, seconded by Vice Mayor Campbell, the meeting adjourned at 11:30 p.m.
Attest:
Attest: '
81�irlGi on, Mayor
Ronetta Taylor, CM
City Clerk
Miami Gardens City Council
Minutes—May 12,2004 Page 16 of 16