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HomeMy WebLinkAboutJuly 13, 2005 CITY OF MIAMI GARDENS REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MINUTES JULY 139 2005 (A) CALL TO ORDER/ROLL CALL. The City Council for the City of Miami Gardens, Florida, met in regular session on Wednesday, July 13, 2005, beginning at 7:11 p.m., in the City Council Chambers, 1515 NW 167h Street, Building 5, Suite 200, Miami Gardens, Florida. The following members of the City Council were present: Mayor Shirley Gibson, Vice Mayor Aaron Campbell Jr., and Council members Audrey J. King, Melvin L. Bratton, Sharon Pritchett and Oscar Braynon H. Councilwoman Barbara Watson was out of town. Also in attendance were: City Manager Dr. Danny O. Crew, City Attorney Sonja K. Dickens and City Clerk Ronetta Taylor. (B) INVOCATION. Dr. Lester Brown delivered the Invocation. (C) PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited in unison. (D) APPROVAL OF MINUTES June 8, 2005 Regular City Council Minutes. Moved by Councilman Braynon, seconded by Vice Mayor Campbell to approve the minutes with the necessary additions/deletions as provided by the City Clerk. This motion passed and carried by a 6-0 vote. June 20, 2005 Special City Council Minutes. Moved by Vice Mayor Campbell, seconded by Councilman Braynon to approve the minutes with the necessary additions/deletions as provided by the City Clerk. This motion passed and carried by a 6-0 vote. (E) ORDER OF BUSINESS (ADDITIONS/DELETIONS/AMENDMENTS): The official agenda was amended to: 1)Delete Item F-1; 2) change agenda Item H-1 to I-1 (second reading ordinance);and 3)add the following resolution as Item L-1."A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA, AUTHORIZING AN ANNUAL CITY-HOSTED JAZZ FESTIVAL TO BE HELD IN THE CITY OF MIAMI GARDENS COMMENDING IN 2006;AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR AND CITY MANAGER TO TAKE ALL NECESSARY ACTIONS FOR THE CITY TO HOST THE FESTIVAL; PROVIDING FOR THE ADOPTION OF REPRESENTATIONS;PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE." Regular City Council Minutes July 13,2005 Moved by Vice Mayor Campbell, seconded by Councilman Braynon to amend the official agenda as noted. This motion passed and carried by a 6-0 vote. (F) SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS (5 minutes each) i. n—T)�A—p P.14P; 4A;A 2. Major Donald Rifldn, Commander - Miami Gardens Dist. Police Monthly Report Mayor Rifkin reported overall targeted crimes were up by nine percent from the previous month. Overall target crimes were up by seven percent year to date. However, there have been decreases in Aggravated Assault, Aggravated Battery, Robbery and Sexual Battery. He pointed out that the police department has been making a significant number of arrests. However, despite those arrests crime has gone up. Between local and specialized police activities a total of 62 felony arrests were made for targeted crimes. Major Rifkin further provided a report on Specialized Police Activities, which included two Gang Unit Operations and Narcotics Operations. Mayor Gibson asked for clarification purposes, if a warrant was issued on a person suspected for a murder, which occurred in another jurisdiction and that person was subsequently arrested in the City of Miami Gardens, would that arrest be reflected as part of the City's stats even though the actual crime occurred elsewhere. Major Rifkin said the arrest would count as part of the City of Miami Gardens' arrest stats. The warrants issued are not broken down by the crimes committed. Mayor Gibson conveyed concern with unfavorable stats, where it would appear the arrest warrant is being counted by the jurisdiction where the crime occurred and the jurisdiction where the suspect was apprehended. She then talked about the special operation which occurred at Scott Park on last night. There were four subjects engaged in gambling on the park. Major Rifkin further expounded on this special operation and shared Vernita Nelson, the City's Park Director along with several staff members were at the park and spotted some subjects gambling. The Park Director asked the subjects to leave prior to calling the police. The subjects refused to leave. This is when Ms. Nelson contacted the police department, which in turn contacted the Crime Suppression Team. Councilman Bratton questioned whether the individuals caught gambling in the park were Miami Gardens' residents. Major Rifkin said he would have to check and provide this information at a later date. Mayor Gibson conveyed to the residents the City is trying to do something about the chronic Regular City Council Minutes 2 July 13,2005 gambling problem within the City parks. It is going to take a constant effort to try to clean up this negative behavior. She encouraged residents to call the police department when they witness gambling activity occurring in the parks. (G) ZONING MATTERS There were none (I) ORDINANCE(S) FOR FIRST READING There were none (I) ORDINANCE(S) FOR SECOND READING "PUBLIC HEARINGS." ORDINANCE NO. 2005-30-68 I-1) AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA, PROVIDING FOR REGULATIONS FOR TEMPORARY STREET CLOSURES FOR BLOCK PARTIES, PARADES, PUBLIC ASSEMBLIES AND FOR CONSTRUCTION PURPOSES; PROVIDING FOR A PERMITTING PROCESS; PROVIDING FOR INSPECTIONS AND OTHER APPROVALS; PROVIDING FOR AN APPLICATION PROCESS; PROVIDING FOR AN INDEMNIFICATION AND INSURANCE PROVISION; PROVIDING FOR ADOPTION OF REPRESENTATIONS; REPEALING ALL ORDINANCES IN CONFLICT; PROVIDING A SEVERABILITY CLAUSE;PROVIDING FOR INCLUSION IN CODE; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. (SPONSORED BY THE CITY MANAGER) 1st Reading—June 22,2005). Mayor Gibson opened the floor for the public hearing. Robert Smith, 4280 NW 187th Terrace, Miami Gardens, Florida, appeared before the City Council to express concern with a block party held in his neighborhood on July 4th, and the loud music associated with such an event. He stated he was under the impression that when a block party is being organized all the residents in that block were to be contacted about the pending event. Tom Ruiz, Public Works Director appeared before the City Council in response to Mr. Smith's concerns. He stated he was not aware of this particular block party because no one had visited his office to fill out the applicable documents to get permission to hold such a party. As part of the permitting process for a block party,the applicant would have to inform the entire block, as well as secure signatures of those neighbors notified. Mayor Gibson said the City did not know this event was taking place. She asked whether Mr. Smith had called the police department about his concerns. Mr. Smith indicated he did not contact the police department about his concerns however the Regular City Council Minutes 3 July 13,2005 police did come because of the loud music. After the police officer's departure the party resumed as before. Manager Crew said as part of the process for issuing a permit for a block party is looking at the kind of response received from the neighbors. If the applicant abuses the rules and regulations imposed for having a block party, that individual would not be issued another permit for a future party. Councilman Bratton asked what would happen if after canvassing his neighbors for approval to have the block party and the majority response from his neighbors was negative. Attorney Dickens said there are some people who don't want anything to go on in their neighborhood. In a case like that, the administration would look at the particular circumstances. Councilman Braynon asked Mr. Smith if the street was blocked off or whether the cars were parked everywhere. Mr.Smith said the street was never blocked and the cars were parked everywhere. He said he was never contacted by anyone about this party. Councilman Braynon pointed out the City did not have a permitting process for a backyard ply Mayor Gibson interjected and stated the Noise Ordinance would apply no matter where the party is held. She conveyed her understanding that a police officer was called out to address the loud noise. She said it would be appropriate to advise the Major to inform every police officer of their duty when called out to address loud noises,which are in violation of the Noise Ordinance. She suggested the officers are to ask if there is a permit for the event or deejay and if that is not available, the officers must shut the party down. She conveyed her confidence in Major Rifkin's directions to his officers as it pertains to this ordinance, if passed at tonight's meeting. Councilwoman Pritchett asked if this ordinance if approved tonight and as part of the permitting process for all parties,the approved permit should be posted in a conspicuous place on the property so that it is visible by residents and the police. Mayor Gibson clarified that from Mr. Smith's description of the event,there was a party in a neighbor's back yard, with loud music and big speakers. There were also numerous cars blocking the street. She asked Major Rifkin if blocking the streets is illegal. Major Rifkin response was yes. Mayor Gibson opined no further legislation addressing cars illegally blocking the street is necessary, the police officers just need to do their jobs. Regular City Council Minutes 4 July 13,2005 Mr. Smith clarified that the cars were double parked and not really blocking the street. Mayor Gibson further clarified there is a Noise Ordinance already in effect. Itis just a matter of enforcing the ordinance. Mr. Lemuel Wims with a residential address at 19675 NW 37th Court, Miami Gardens, Florida, appeared before the City Council to express his views and opposition to any form of block party. He further expressed concern with the amount of noise generated from such an event. Dr. Lester Brown with a residential address at 18801 NW 29th Court, Miami Gardens, Florida, appeared before the City Council to express his views about block parties and the loud music associated with these events. He shared that he recently heard loud noise emanating from the Miami Job Corp. After there were no other interested parties to speak on this item, the public hearing was closed. Moved by Vice Mayor Campbell, seconded by Councilwoman King to approve this item. Vice Mayor Campbell shared his interpretation of this ordinance has more to do with traffic concerns than it does with noise. He said there needs to be a companion ordinance that addresses broadcasting, music and loud music. This ordinance has absolutely nothing to do with a backyard party or Mr. Smith's concerns. He further concurred with Councilwoman Pritchett's suggestion of having the permit posted in a conspicuous place. He questioned why the City was not enforcing the Noise Ordinance already in place. Attorney Dickens said it is not a matter of the City not having a Noise Ordinance. The City does have a Noise Ordinance on the books because the City adopted Miami-Dade County's Code. It is just a matter of enforcing that ordinance. She recommended that the City create its own permitting process for those block festivals. The issue of enforcement is a separate matter. Vice Mayor Campbell expressed concern with the police response to these issues. He opined the issues either get dismissed or just not enough attention on the part of the police is focused on these issues. He commended the police department for doing an outstanding job on the more serious crimes. The problem is when residents come before the City Council they are complaining about minor or low priority crimes. The police department needs to but more emphasis on those minor type offenses. He said the officer responded this call, but the response was inadequate and unacceptable. There should have been some follow-up. He advised Mr. Smith or anyone else that calls the police and an officer responds to get the number of the police vehicle. If the police officer's response is not sufficient,the person making the complaint should call the police department again and ask to speak to a supervisor and advise them that the officer responded to the call but did not take adequate or appropriate action. If no satisfactory measure is taken after speaking to the supervisor, the next step is to speak with Major Rifldn or City Manager Crew. Regular City Council Minutes 5 July 13,2005 Councilman Bratton asked whether this item should be tabled or amended. Vice Mayor Campbell opined the item should be amended to require the permit to be posted in a conspicuous place, as suggested by Councilwoman Pritchett. If there is no permit the party should be shut down. Councilman Bratton inquired about a permit for the Deejay. Vice Mayor Campbell opined that is a separate ordinance. Moved by Councilwoman Pritchett to amend page Section 1 of the ordinance, more specifically the language, "Permit Type" (a)by adding the language "all permits for block parties shall be posted conspicuously in the permitted area." This motion was seconded by Vice Mayor Campbell. There being no further discussion on the amendment,the motion passed and carried by a 6-0 vote. Councilman Bratton: Yes Councilman Braynon: Yes Vice Mayor Campbell: Yes Councilwoman King: Yes Councilwoman Pritchett: Yes Councilwoman Watson: Not present Mayor Gibson: Yes Councilwoman Pritchett pointed out the ordinance did not address whether parades were permitted at night,and asked for clarification. She referenced the National Crime Watch Night Out event, where residents were literally parading in the streets. Manager Crew said the parade could be held at anytime as long as the proper permit has been issued. Councilwoman Pritchett thanked staff for adding the suggested language for the $500.00 refundable deposit. She stated for bookkeeping purposes the signature of the staff person receiving and or returning the funds would be a good thing to include in the document as well. Manager Crew said a space for staff signature(receiving and refunding)of funds would be included in the final document. Space would also be included for the dates. Councilman Bratton asked about the time frame for the return of funds. Manager Crew said the refund process could take anywhere from a week to ten days. Regular City Council Minutes 6 July 13,2005 There being no further discussion on this item,the motion to adopt this ordinance passed and carried by a 6-0 vote. Councilman Bratton: Yes Councilman Braynon: Yes Vice Mayor Campbell: Yes Councilwoman King: Yes Councilwoman Pritchett: Yes Councilwoman Watson: Not present Mayor Gibson: Yes Q) PUBLIC COMMENTS (10 - MINUTES) James Clausell, 3520 NW 203'd Street, Miami Gardens, Florida, appeared before the City Council to provide a report on the Mitigation Program. He shared that Miami Dade County Office of Emergency Management has implemented a new storm shutter program for any individual homeowners who is handicapped or disabled. These individuals would receive free accordion shutter for their homes. To quality an application process is required. The individual applying for the free shutters must indicated on the application whether they are handicapped or disabled. Individuals receiving SSI would be given priority. There is no income restriction associated with the application process at this time. He emphasized those individuals needing special medical attention or dependant upon medical devices must be registered with Special Needs prior to the onset of a hurricane. Councilwoman King questioned whether Mr. Clausell had literature on hurricane preparedness to pass out to the residents. Mr. Clausell indicated that he did have hurricane preparedness information to provide. He further shared that many senior citizens did not have assistance in putting up their hurricane shutters. He shared he was in collaboration with the City to get the assistance for these senior citizens. Part of that assistance would include the removal of possible missile objects from their properties. Councilwoman Pritchett suggested that Mr. Clausell get with Mr. McHugh, the City's Assistant City Manager so that the same information he shared with the Council could be placed on the City's website so that those residents not in attendance at tonight's meeting would have an opportunity to learn about the storm shutter program. Ronda Sims, 17200 NW 9`h Place, Miami Gardens, Florida, appeared before the City Council to express concern with the illegal posting of signs and flyers throughout the City, especially those notices being nailed to the trees. Manager Crew shared there is a law in place, which provides for a fine up to$500.00, if the person is caught during the act. He said the problem is catching the person in the act of committing Regular City Council Minutes 7 July 13,2005 the offense. David Williams Jr., 17644 NW 18'Avenue, Miami Gardens, Florida, appeared before the City Council to express concern with those outside entities (e.g. news media, post office, etc.) not respecting the City of Miami Gardens. Prime example is the news media when making reference to this area they are identifying it as Carol City or Opa-locka. He shared that he is also having difficulty with postal service because the representatives are not recognizing this area as the City of Miami Gardens. He questioned whether the City could put together a publicity campaign to let these outside forces know this area is now incorporated and is a city just like North Miami Beach and Coral Gables, and is due the same respect. Mayor Gibson in response to Mr. Williams' concerns stated the legal issue of changing the zip codes designation to the City of Miami Gardens is in the Federal government's jurisdiction. Applicable paperwork has been submitted to Congressman Meek's office. The process could take as long as two years to complete. In addition, the City has been in contact with the various news Medias asking that they identify this area as the City of Miami Gardens when during their coverage of this area. Manager Crew concurred with Mayor Gibson's comments. He said it would also be helpful for residents visiting local business establishments to remind those businesses that their business is located with the City of Miami Gardens and to consider revising their mailing addresses to reflect that. Hugh Dodd, 17125 NW 19' Avenue, Miami Gardens, Florida, appeared before the City Council to relate an incident he had with Miami-Dade County's Code Enforcement about trash that was put out on the common ground by someone else, however he was cited for it. He said a similar situation is occurring now. He further shared that he also got charged for a trash pick-up. Manager Crew stated that the City has no jurisdiction over Miami-Dade County. Property owners are responsible for their property. It does not matter who placed the illegal trash on the property. Vice Mayor Campbell advised all one has to do is call Miami Dade County Solid Waste Department when they see illegal trash dumped on their property and report the illegal dumping. The property owner is then automatically covered because they are reporting the illegal dumping on their property before being cited by Miami-Dade County. Mr. Lemuel Wims, a resident of the City of Miami Gardens and a representative of Miami- Dade County's Solid Waste Department appeared before the City Council to state that Vice Mayor Campbell's statement was correct. Paulette Sims-Wimberly, 17351 NW 29th Avenue, Miami Gardens,Florida, appeared before the City Council to suggest that the City start having some festivals in celebration of major holidays, (e.g. 4' of July). She further inquired as to whether the City had a Nuisance Abatement Board. Regular City Council Minutes 8 July 13,2005 She commended Councilman Bratton for providing valuable hurricane preparedness information in the Miami Gardens Gazette. She further suggested having an emergency phone number for residents to call. She also suggested the City adopt Masons' Rules of Order. Vice Mayor Campbell in response to Ms. Sims-Wimberley's suggestion about the adoption of Masons' Rules of Order and stated the Council has the right to adopt any rules they want and has adopted appropriate legislation as to how Council meetings would be conducted. Wendell James, 18870 NW 29'Terrace, Miami Gardens, Florida, appeared before the City Council to question how would the Crime Watch Assembly activity conducted in the park during evening hours be handled. He further expressed concern with the loud music emanating from vehicles and suggested the City create a law prohibiting such nuisance. He expressed gratitude with the explanation provided by Mayor Gibson of where the City stood with regard to getting the postal zip codes and the City of Miami Gardens designation approved by Congress. Dorothy Smith, 18900 MW 30`h Court, Miami Gardens, Florida, appeared before the City Council to provide information about National Crime Watch Night Out. Mayor Gibson said the National Crime Watch Night Out event will not be an issue as it related to obtaining a permit. Ms. Smith asked the Council when deliberating about the budget to set aside funds for unmarked police vehicles. In addition she requested funds be appropriated for the local Crime Watch groups. Sharon Frazier-Stephens, 145 NE 193' Street, Miami, Florida, appeared before the City Council to announce registration for Pre-K for four year old children has started. She emphasized the importance of parents taking advantage of this program. Bennie Grant, 17740 NW 14th Court, Miami Gardens, Florida, appeared before the City Council to express concern with the enforcement of the Shopping Cart ordinance and asked where does the City stand with getting this information out to the merchants. Manager Crew advised Ms. Grant that Chris Steers, the City's Assistant Manager for Business Services was out on vacation, but would return on tomorrow. At that time he would found out from Mr. Steers where the City is in this process. (I) CONSENT AGENDA/RESOLUTION(S) There were none (L) RESOLUTIONS) RESOLUTION NO. 2005-98-275 Regular City Council Minutes 9 July 13,2005 L-1) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI GARDENS,FLORIDA,AUTHORIZING AN ANNUAL CITY-HOSTED JAZZ FESTIVAL TO BE HELD IN THE CITY OF MIAMI GARDENS COMMENDING IN 2006; AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR AND CITY MANAGER TO TAKE ALL NECESSARY ACTIONS FOR THE CITY TO HOST THE FESTIVAL; PROVIDING FOR THE ADOPTION OF REPRESENTATIONS; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. Mayor Gibson passed the gavel to Vice Mayor Campbell, and then moved to amend the resolution to insert the word annual before the language City-Hosted Jazz Festival. This motion was seconded by Councilman Braynon. The amendment passed and carried by a 6-0 vote. Mayor Gibson explained her rationale for sponsoring this item. She shared that the Broward and Palm Beach communities have an established audience for Jazz festivals however; Miami-Dade County does not have an annual Jazz festival. This would provide an opportunity for Miami Gardens to fill that void and showcase this City as a place for others to visit and enjoy and old established art form. The greater Miami area is host to million of tourists annually and Miami Gardens should be a partner in hosting and a beneficiary of the positive economics derived from these tourists. The viability of this festival is positive and it would identify the City of Miami Gardens as the designation of other entertainment that will complement the established sport that has been in this area for many years. This festival will also allow for local artists to showcase their talents to the community and others in the tri-county area. The festival will be hosted at Dolphin Stadium. Moved by Mayor Gibson, seconded by Councilman Bratton to approve this item. Councilman Braynon conveyed his support of this resolution. He asked about the financial part of this venture and whether the City would be sponsoring the event or soliciting funds for that purpose. Mayor Gibson shared the funding aspect of this venture is still in the works. She shared that prior to bringing this item forward she did her due diligence, inquiring about sponsorships for this events. Businesses are receptive and want to participate. Manager Crew also advised that he received a check as donation to this event. Dolphin Stadium wants to be a major sponsor of this event because the facility is underutilized. She expressed her belief that the City would not have to do any significant financing for this venture. Councilman Braynon questioned whether the approval of the funds for this venture would come back to the Council for consideration. Mayor Gibson said if the amount is above what the City Manager is authorized to spend, approval would come back to the Council for consideration. Regular City Council Minutes 10 July 13,2005 Councilman Bratton asked if the event would take place in the compound or the grounds. Mayor Gibson said the festival would take place on the grounds. Councilman Bratton inquired about concession booths. Mayor Gibson said those particulars have not been worked out as yet. Councilwoman King asked whether this item would appear in next year's budget. Manager Crew said the proposed budget for next year does have some funds set aside for special events. Many of the activities for this event would be self funded. He opined there would be more than enough funds to cover the event. Councilwoman Pritchett asked if a date to hold this event has been discussed. Mayor Gibson said that Dolphin Stadium was looking to hold the event between the Miami Marlin's Baseball schedule. In addition, they will be looking at when other festivals are being held because people who attend these festivals tend to follow the festival circuit. Vice Mayor Campbell shared usually when something of this magnitude takes place, a public/private partnership is formed. It is under this joint partnership that all logistics involved with this festival will be addressed. Those issues would then be brought back to the City Council for consideration. He opined now is not the time to ask questions because this resolution only gives the authority to move forward with an annual festival. Attorney Dickens said Vice Mayor Campbell is correct. This resolution only authorizes Mayor Gibson to move forward with the festival. Once the planning process is underway, Mayor Gibson would provide periodic updates, as well as bring back any items for the Council's consideration. After there were no further questions or comments for this item, the motion to approve this resolution passed and carried by a 6-0 vote. Councilman Braynon: Yes Councilwoman King: Yes Councilwoman Pritchett: Yes Councilwoman Watson: Not present Councilman Bratton: Yes Mayor Gibson: Yes Vice Mayor Campbell: Yes At this point, Vice Mayor Campbell relinquished the gavel to Mayor Gibson. Regular City Council Minutes 11 July 13,2005 (_M) REPORTS OF CITY MANAGER AND CITY ATTORNEY. 1. City of Miami Gardens Comprehensive Dev.Master Plan(CDMP)Data a) Population Projections and Methodology b) Existing Land Use GIS Map c) Zoning GIS Map Jay Marder, Development Services Director appeared before the City Council to expound on the items listed above. He said in the very near future staff would provide the Council with a Future Land Use Concept, all that information would be combined with the Planned Development Mapping provided several months prior. Bhairvi Pandya, Senior Planner with the City's Planning and Zoning Department appeared before the City Council to expound on the Population Projections and Methodology, which highlighted the historical growth of the City. She reviewed each table with the Council and explained the process used for each. Ms. Pandya said staff was asking for direction from the City Council as to which Population Projection and Methodology to use. Vice Mayor Campbell said he would prefer that staff over estimate the population because it is really not known if the population is currently at 105,000. He opined if the population is underestimated over the potential 105,000, the City could be in a bind five to ten years from now. Ms. Pandya referenced Table A , which indicated the City of Miami Gardens' population for 2004 as 105,414. This estimate is actually a number that was brought out by the University of Florida for the year 2004. The next set of estimates will be put out by that office in mid-August, 2005. The University of Florida is a valid source. Vice Mayor Campbell opined it is important to consider where the migration might come from, as well as the educational, and income levels. Ms. Pandya said usually cities have this historical data, however since Miami Gardens is so new, this information is not available. The next Census would provide more data for this purpose. Councilwoman Pritchett conveyed her understanding that staff was asking the Council to informally endorse this Population Projections and Methodology and questioned when would there be a public workshop to share this information with the residents. Mr. Marder said staff is anticipating a September/October time frame. Staff should by then have an actual Future Land Use Concept for the Council to take a look at. This is some of the data that would be a part of that. Regular City Council Minutes 12 July 13,2005 Councilwoman Pritchett asked Attorney Dickens if it was okay to informally endorse staff's recommendation. Attorney Dickens said she understood staff was asking the Council to make a choice, however staff is making a recommendation and is asking Council to accept their recommendation. She opined that is acceptable. Councilman Bratton asked based on the land in Miami Gardens is the land use analysis correct. Ms. Pandya said the Land Use Analysis is being worked on as we speak. (N) REPORTS OF MAYOR AND COUNCIL MEMBERS. Councilwoman King announced that she would be entering the hospital on July 20' for treatment. She asked for the Council's prayers. Councilwoman Pritchett asked if the City was continuing the practice of placing the Agenda packet at the library so residents can have the opportunity to review it, and if interested in a particular item, request a copy of that item from the City Clerk. She said a couple of residents have said they have not seen the agenda packet at the library lately, and would like to be able to review it prior to the Council meeting. Mr. McHugh, Assistant City Manager voiced staff's commitment to working with the City Clerk to get as much information out to the public in a timely manner. Information is also being updated on the website in a timely manner. Mayor Gibson announced the 79'Annual Conference of the Florida League of Cities would be held August 18-20, 2005, in Orlando, Florida. She asked that the Council designate a voting delegate to the Conference. This information has to be provided prior to the Conference. Moved by Councilwoman Pritchett, seconded by Councilman Bratton to appoint Mayor Gibson as the voting delegate. This motion passed and carried by a 6-0 vote. Mayor Gibson shared that she has been appointed to the Executive Board of the Miami Dade League of Cities, which provides for an open seat for another elected official from the City of Miami Gardens to fill. Mayor Gibson relinquished the gavel to Vice Mayor Campbell and then motion to appoint Councilman Melvin L. Bratton to this position. This motion was seconded by Councilwoman Pritchett. There being no further discussion, this motion passed and carried by a 6-0 vote. Regular City Council Minutes 13 July 13,2005 (0) REQUESTS, PETITIONS & OTHER COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE PUBLIC. (P) ADJOURNMENT. After there was no further business to come before this Body, and upon a motion being duly made by Councilman Braynon, seconded by Vice Mayor Campbell, the meeting adjourned at 9:12 p.m. Attest: As ibson, Mayor Ronetta Taylor, CMC, ty Clerk Regular City Council Minutes 14 July 13,2005