Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAboutMay 14, 2008 CITY OF MIAMI GARDENS REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MINUTES MAY 149 2008 (A) CALL TO ORDER/ROLL CALL The City Council for the City of Miami Gardens, Florida, met in regular session on Wednesday, May 14, 2008, beginning at 7:17 p.m., in the City Council Chambers, 1515 NW 167` Street, Building 5, Suite 200, Miami Gardens, Florida. The following members of the City Council were present: Mayor Shirley Gibson, Vice Mayor Barbara Watson, and Council members Aaron Campbell Jr., Andr6 Williams, Melvin L. Bratton, Sharon Pritchett and Oliver G. Gilbert III. Also in attendance were: City Manager Dr. Danny O. Crew, City Clerk Ronetta Taylor and Attorney Joseph F. Poklemba, sitting in for City Attorney Sonja K. Dickens, who was out of town. (B) INVOCATION Delivered by Mr. Robert Ham. (C) PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Recited in unison. (D) APPROVAL OF M MUTES Regular City Council Meeting - April 23, 2008 Motion offered by Vice Mayor Watson, seconded by Councilman Campbell to approve the minutes with necessary corrections, if any. This motion passed and carried by a 7-0 voice vote. (E) ORDER OF BUSINESS (Items shall be pulled from the Consent Agenda at this time): Item F-4 was moved forward to be heard after Item F-1; Item F-8 was moved forward to be heard after Item F-3; Item K-1 was moved forward to be heard after the second reading ordinances. Motion offered by Councilman Gilbert, seconded by Vice Mayor Watson to approve the Official Agenda with necessary changes. This motion passed and carried by a 7-0 voice vote. (F) SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS (5 minutes each) F-1) 2008 Legislative Session Wrap-Up- Yolanda Cash Jackson, Becker- Poliakoff State Representative Oscar Braynon II, appeared before the City Council to expound on interesting legislative session in Tallahassee. He informed the Council that the Governor has yet to sign the budget. He further reported a bill was passed recently that will force judges to allow a person found guilty of a non-criminal infractions, and who can demonstrate a personal hardship, to do community service rather than pay a fine. Additionally, there are a lot of things going on in Tallahassee that are not too favorable for the City of Miami Gardens. Nonetheless,he conveyed his Regular City Council Minutes May 14,2008 commitment to continue fighting and working hard against these issues. Finally he thanked the City for allowing him to represent the City and the District in Tallahassee. Yolanda Cash Jackson, the City's Lobbyist from the law firm of Becker Poliakoff, appeared before the City Council to report on the Legislative Session in Tallahassee. She said the budget was the focus of the 2008 Legislative Session. She thanked staff and the Council for giving her directions on points of interest prior to her going up to Tallahassee. It was very helpful in knowing, which bills to support and, which ones to kill. She indicated the City is in the mix to received $100,000 for drainage improvements for NW 167`h-175`h Streets and NW 11'-17' Avenues. She conveyed assurance that staff will work diligently to ensure the Governor does not veto this award. Additionally, Ms. Jackson stated the theme for the whole sessions was how to stop the state from imposing mandates on municipalities without funding. For example with the help of the Florida League of Cities and staff we were able to fight the "Tax Payer Bill of Rights" put together by the Tax and Budget Commission, which would have put a cap on governmental spending. This same mandate went through the Legislative process and failed however there are enough petitions to put it on the ballot. On the other hand there were numerous of legislations approved,which the City supported, such as the Children's Zones (HB 3). The house bills regarding Public Construction Works (HB 683) and Public Meeting (HB 991) bills, which were opposed by the city, were not approved by legislation. Councilman Williams inquired about the steps and procedures necessary in getting some effective gun control passed in the legislature. Ms. Jackson in response to Councilman Williams' inquiry responded,a bill would need to be sponsored by a state representative, and get it passed thru legislation. This will be a hard task that would have to be done at the State and Federal level. Councilman Campbell opined it seems that most of the bills being proposed and passed are designed to kill local governments. He added it seems mandates are being proposed so that the State does not provide services, making it harder for the cities to provide local services. Mayor Gibson furthered expounded on this issue and stated for the last couple of years the evolution from where we started is getting worse and worse year by year. She urged the residents that when they make decisions please be aware of the long term effects. F-2) Fred Frost,President—South Florida AFL-CIO—Universal Health Initiative Fred Frost, President of the South Florida AFL-CIO, appeared before the City Council to solicit the Council support in the passage of Item K-1. He stated the AFL-CIO is trying to make universal health care reform a number one priority in all elections. He thanked Councilwoman Pritchett and the City of Miami Gardens in leading the way of supporting the AFL-CIO position. This health care reform is national efforts that we are asking every municipality to support; enabling us to let our members of congress know and say that health care reform is a number one priority in this society. Regular City Council Minutes 2 May 14,2008 F-3) Miami Gardens Police Department Monthly Report Deputy Chief Paul Miller appeared before the City Council to provide the monthly Police Department report. He reported compared to March there was a significant increase in crimes for the month of April. After analyzing numerous police reports, staff was unable to recognize any particular reasons or trends for the increase in crimes. The alarming part is that everybody (suspect) that the department encountered was armed. The good news we are still 7% down compared to last year. We also surveyed other police departments; they too are reporting the same type of trend. Additionally, we had an increase of 60% for arrests made. He stated that the rise in crime is a nation wide trend, these are opportunistic crimes. Deputy Chief Miller furthered shared in the area in traffic enforcement we are down 35 accidents for the month of April. Also we have increased our traffic enforcement more particular, we handed out more citations for moving violations. He announced the motor unit has just started. Also the police department is utilizing smart trailers equipped with radar to let motorist see how fast they are traveling. Deputy Chief Miller addressed questions raised at the last Council meeting,more particular as it related to calls for services; the major differences between what the County reference an emergency call and the City of Miami Gardens' Police department is that the City classifies emergency and priority calls for service together; which could explain the inaccuracy in previous monthly Police Reports. Thus the department has sat with the County and received all emergency, routine and priority calls to give the Council a better accurate report for this and previous months. Also the response time for calls for service has been tremendous with an emergency calls down to 7.3 minutes and routine calls down 12.4 minutes. He commended his officers and communication officers for there efficiency in lowering response times by following procedures and utilizing the new equipment. Deputy Chief Miller indicated, in regards to staffing needs, the department interviewed 28 additional dispatchers, however only 13 qualified to move forward in the hiring process. Taking what Council proposed to the department in regards to the CSAs being used in communications, they have begun to rotate the CSAs out of communications to the road for field training, once they have completed the CSA's academy. The Department's hope is to get the Communications Division up to full staff and keep our CSAs out on the road. Deputy Chief Miller added that the narcotics team is still continuing to do a phenomenal job in combating narcotics. Also the department has implemented a juvenile detail. By creating this juvenile unit they have been able to return 47 truants to school, 13 arrests, and recovered 4 handguns. He further reported the neighborhood watch program held it first workshop on May 3rd, with over 30 residents in attendance. During this workshop the Community Outreach Officers were introduced. Lastly, Deputy Chief Miller reported the status of the Emergency Operations Center "EOC" will be a hub of information in particular during the time of an emergency, for instance in the event of a hurricane. They have been meeting with various city departments in providing staffing for this center. Within the next two weeks the department plans on having an exercise to determine the capabilities of this center. Regular City Council Minutes 3 May 14,2008 Manager Crew added the City is in the process of installing a generator over in City Hall that will enable communication with the EOC during an emergency. Secondly the red light camera program will start on June 15'. There will be a one month grace period where they will issue out warnings to people. He conveyed his belief that this will bring about a big change in traffic within the city. Councilman Bratton asked what happens to those parents caught participating in the crimes with their juveniles. Deputy Chief Miller responded they are going to jail and we will request for enhanced penalties that they are unfit parents. Councilman Gilbert added that they are also contributing to the delinquency of a minor which is a separate violation. Councilman Campbell asked who will be in charge of the EOC. Deputy Chief Miller said Chief Boyd would be a part of the executive structure, along with the City Manager, and elected officials. Councilman Campbell how would citizens be involved. He shared citizens are being trained through the City's CERT's Program. Deputy Chief Miller shared his department has been in constant contact with Mr. Clausell, and officer Bradwell is setting up meeting with him. In addition, the Neighborhood Watch is a partner with CERT. Councilman Campbell opined communication is going to be critical in this process. He asked whether WASA grant funds were available for this purpose. Deputy Chief Miller said this is something that can be looked into. Assistant City Manager Farmer appeared before the City Council to expound on this matter. She said this is something that will be investigated and perhaps there will be other ways addressing the communication aspect of this venture. She said she was not sure if the City could provide civilians with the radios. Councilman Williams asked about the crime area breakdown for the City and made mention that the police department has broken the City down in three areas. He asked about the crime stats for those three areas. Deputy Chief Miller in response to Councilman Williams' question shared the City is broken down into three areas. Within those three areas there are four law beats. Deployment to these areas is based upon the number of incidents in each law beat. The department after a two week review has not seen any emerging pattern, which would warrant a realignment of the areas. Councilman Bratton expounded on Councilman Campbell's concern about communication and asked Manager Crew to look into purchasing satellite phones. Regular City Council Minutes 4 May 14,2008 Manager Crew shared the City has a number of satellite phones it purchased. F-4) Miami Gardens—Police Department Officer of the Month Presentation Deputy Chief Paul Miller stated the department has implemented a recognition program for the exceptional services provided by sworn officers monthly and civilians quarterly. He presented officer of the month for February to Officer Hubert Pierre, who was not in attendance due to another police matter. The Officer of the Month for the month of March was presented to Officer Davis Starling and Robert Killen for their actions on Wednesday March 19, 2008.Deputy Miller also presented the Civilian Employee of the Quarter to Celina Green-Mike, Administrative Analyst, for performing her duties in an extraordinary manor. F-5) Proclamation -designating May 11 - 17,2008, as Police Week and May 15, 2008,as Peace Officers Memorial Day; Mayor Gibson presented a Proclamation in recognition of Police Week and Peace Officers Memorial Day to Deputy Chief Paul Miller. F-6) Proclamation-National Public Works Week is May 18-24,2008. Mayor Gibson presented a Proclamation acknowledging National Public Works Week to the Public Works Department. F-7) Final Report For City of Miami Gardens Fourth Annual Dr. Martin Luther King,Jr. Celebration Retha Boone, Chairperson and Sandra McDowell, Vice Chairperson of the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Steering Committee appeared before the Council to present the Committee's final report. She said communication is a definite key to eliminating some of the challenges experienced this year. The following suggestions were made: 1)that individuals being appointed to this committee be appointed according to their skills and resources they can contribute; 2) contracts should be negotiated early and bonded; 3) sponsorship and marketing should begin in June, to engage commitments from businesses and schools interested in participating; 4) food and none food vendors food and non food vendors need to have clear directions as to the process and requirements to become a vendor such as permits, payment, and insurance. This part of the planning has always been of concern and it is suggested that the permit department along with events staff create a document that will serve as a guide/brochure for all events in the City. The fee for vendors should be also raised to cover more costs; 5) The City of Miami Gardens Police Department participated for the first time and overall their cooperation was excellent; 6) a qualified stage manager be responsible for the entertainment and assigned a committee member; 7) volunteers should be recruited and trained earlier; 8) recommending that the Souvenir Journal be an avenue for marketing and recommend that an outside source be hired to sell these ads and appointment a committee member to work in conjunction with that individual;9)require the 2008- 09 Committee members be required to attend an orientation session; and 10) adding a Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Service for Peach Award. Regular City Council Minutes 5 May 14,2008 Ms. Boone further thanked staff for its support, the Mayor and City Council as well for their support, and especially Councilwoman Pritchett for establishing this committee. Each Committee member present was afforded an opportunity for comments. Ula Zucker presented each Committee member with a plaque for their service. In addition, Councilwoman Pritchett, along with members of the City Council presented each member with a floral-dish garden as a token of appreciation. Mayor Gibson made reference to the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Steering Committee membership and the possibility of rotating terms so that not all members' terms expire at the same time. This means the current committee members will probably work another year. Mayor Gibson asked the City Manager to review the suggestions and recommendations made by the Committee, not only as it relates to the MLK Committee but perhaps other committees established by the City. F-8) Norland Middle School Magnet Program a. Alyssa Walker—National Gold Key in scholastics art award b. Madison Bell—Regional winner for the Lion's Club Peace Poster contest. Mayor Gibson recognized Alyssa Walker and Madison Bell of Miami Norland Middle School for their artistic ability. She furthered that Miami Norland Middle has a fantastic Art Magnet Program that has a long tradition of producing excellent students. Also the students have never entered a contest around the country unless they come back winning first prize. For these reasons she felt the need to recognized these students and program. She announced the Allan Makin of Vercon Construction Management will make a contribution to buy 12 easels and drawing boards. As well Mayor Gibson contributed a personal check for $375.00 to assist in purchasing other items needed by the Art Department. Finally she introduced Alyssa Walker and Madison Bell and presented them with an award for of their achievements. (G) PUBLIC COMMENTS: Sharon Frazier-Stephens, 143 NE 193rd Street, Miami, Florida, appeared before the City Council to share her experiences and accomplishments during her tenure as the Regional Center 1, PTA/PTSA representative for the pass two year. She thanked the Council for its support. Leonardo Scarpati, 3809 NW 213'Street, Miami Gardens, Florida,appeared before the City Council as Chairperson of the City of Miami Gardens' Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee and announced a clean up at Carol City Park. He invited everyone to come out for this event. Roderick Harvey, 160 NW 176"1 Street, Suite 206, Miami Gardens,Florida,appeared before the City Council to comment on the auditing process. He said his auditing firm represents several municipalities in Miami-Dade and Broward Counties. He informed the Council that he wanted to learn the process how the auditing firms are selected. He said based on information he received, negotiations broke down with number one firm selected. He said as a resident of Miami-Dade County whose wife has a long standing business in the City of Miami Gardens he wanted to be able to position his firm to do business with the City. Therefore, he would like for someone to be able to Regular City Council Minutes 6 May 14,2008 explain the process so that he can position his firm. More particularly the issue as it relates to the ranking of firms and finding out that ranking has been changed because additional information has been presented that the first ranked firm to now be not the first ranked firm. Manager Crew explained the City follows state law as it relates to auditing. An RFP for services is put out. Once the proposals have been received the audit committee evaluates the auditing firms individually and then meets as a group, which is a public meeting. At that meeting the rating and rankings are discussed. If negotiations do not work out with the number one ranked firm, negotiations are then started with the second ranked firm. If that negotiation fails, staff moved to the third ranked firm, etc. Manager Crew explained, in this particular case, the first ranked firm withdrew its proposal. Therefore, the City is now into negotiations with the number two ranked firm. If an agreement is reached with the second ranked firm, an agreement will be brought back to the City Council. Mayor Gibson asked for the identify of the second ranked firm. Manager Crew said the second ranked firm is a joint venture between Rachlin Cohen and Sean Davis, a Miami Gardens firm. Rachlin and Cohen is the firm that has performed the City's fiscal year audits for the last three years. Mayor Gibson recounted the Council said it wanted to change auditing firms, and that it was good to do that, over a period of time, since it was not good to have the same auditing firm indefinitely. The whole purpose of the RPF was to secure another firm. However, the number one ranked firm withdrew its proposal and because Rachlin and Cohen had also submitted a proposal, they are being considered. She stated now that Rachlin and Cohen have been ranked the number two firm, they are again being considered as the auditing firm. Manager Crew said as he has mentioned in the past and it is his philosophy that after a certain period of time,the City should put an RFP out to get a different auditor. He further shared the Audit Manager for Rachlin and Cohen is a Miami Gardens' resident. William Alonso, Finance Director for the City of Miami Gardens appeared before the City Council to further expound on this matter. He related Alberni, Caballero LLC/Cynthia Borders- Boyd was the third ranked firm and Harvey Covington was the fourth franked firm. The resolution originally adopted provides that if negotiations broke down with the first ranked firm, staff was to negotiate with the second ranked firm. Mayor Gibson asked for clarification purposes whether the City adopted a formal policy indicating that an auditing firm currently providing services could not submit a bid to be reconsidered. Manager Crew said no formal policy was ever adopted by the Council. Councilman Williams expressed being uncomfortable with awarding the bid to the second ranked firm, which the Council has already indicated that it may not want to have a relationship with. He conveyed understanding that relationship the City has with Rachlin and Cohen is not a bad relationship. He commented obviously the City wants to give other individuals an Regular City Council Minutes 7 May 14,2008 opportunity. He recalled the difference in the numbers of the original ranking were only by a few points. He opined all four firms were very qualified with only a few points separating them. He shared his position, which may not be viewed by other Council members is that this may need to be revisited. Manager Crew reiterated the City has to follow the State Statutes on how the auditor is selected. Mr. Alonso explained if the Council wanted to all bids could be thrown out, with an RFP being issued again. He said there is some flexibility in the statue that provides that if staff comes to Council with recommendation for the number two ranked firm, at that time, the Council to choose to select the number three or number four ranked firm. The only requirement is a justification, stated on the record, for doing so. Councilman Williams further stated previously he was in support of having all bidders make a presentation before the Council, unfortunately his colleagues did not agree. He stated he was not in a position to make a decision without having all of the information; therefore, he is in support of opening up this process again. Manager Crew expressed concern with having this discussion without inviting the second ranked firm to be a part of the discussion. Councilman Gilbert asked whether the status allowed for this whole process to be bided out again. Mr. Alonso in response to Councilman Gilbert's question said the statue does allow for the re-bidding of this item. He suggested however, having the other three bidders make a presentation before the Council. Vice Mayor Watson indicated that she was uncomfortable with re-bidding this item. She further expressed concern with co-partnering with a local firm and whether the City will be able to verify who is actually doing the work. Councilman Gilbert for clarification purposes asked whether the City could just reject the contract with the second ranked firm. Mr. Alonso in response to Councilman Gilbert's question said the statute is very clear that the Council's decision can not be based on price only. He said with regard to the number two firm the Council can say it has worked with this firm for the last five years and wants to utilize another firm. Mayor Gibson opined that reason can not be stated because it is not in policy form. She said the appropriate legislation for this policy would be an amendment to the purchasing ordinance, which requires two readings. She asked where would this leave the City as it relates to an auditor. Manager Crew said an auditor would not be needed until August. Regular City Council Minutes 8 May 14,2008 Mayor Gibson stated this means; the City would actually have time to adopt an ordinance addressing the Council concerns by putting the appropriate policy in place. She suggested adopting an ordinance putting a rotation policy in place. Councilman Williams opined all three bidders should be allowed to make a presentation. He asked Attorney Poklemba what are the criteria, which would allow the Council to not accept a bid. Attorney Poklemba in response to Councilman Williams' question said the statues would need to be reviewed to ascertain exactly what the criteria are. Pam Thompson, City of Miami Gardens Procurement Manager appeared before the City Council to further expound on this process and the authorizing resolution. Councilman Gilbert opined in that case, the Council needs to adopt a resolution tonight stopping the process and taking away the ability to execute the contract because as it now stands, the City Manager can execute the contract with the second ranked firm. Mayor Gibson for clarification purposes asked Attorney Poklemba whether a resolution was required to negate the original resolution giving the City Manager the authority to negotiate with the first ranked firm, and if those negotiations broke down to negotiate with the second ranked firm and effectuate a contract, which he is in the process of doing. Attorney Poklemba opined the Council would need to adopt another resolution taking away the authority of the City Manager to negotiate with the second ranked firm. Manager Crew said he could also bring this item back to the Council before execution. Attorney Poklemba opined the proper way for clarification purposes is to prepare a resolution. Councilman Williams opined the City Manager should not be moving forward and negotiating with the second firm. He further opined in the initial beginning all four firms should have been given the opportunity to make a presentation before the City Council. He shared his opinion that those firms should still be allowed to make a presentation before the Council because there might be some additional information provided that may impact the Council's decision. Councilman Gilbert asked that all bidders be invited to the next Council meeting to make a presentation. Motion offered by Councilman Williams, seconded by Councilman Gilbert to have all three firms make a presentation at the next City Council Meeting, May 28, 2008. There being no further discussion, the motion passed and carried by a 7-0 voice vote. (I) ORDINANCES) FOR FIRST READING: H-1) AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI GARDENS,FLORIDA,ESTABLISHING A PREFERENCE IN Regular City Council Minutes 9 May 14,2008 PURCHASING AND CONTRACTING FOR BUSINESSES THAT MAKE MONETARY CONTRIBUTIONS TO MIAMI-DADE COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS LOCATED WITHIN THE CITY OF MIAMI GARDENS; 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 COUNCILMAN OLIVER G. GILBERT) Councilman Gilbert explained this legislation puts the City in the posture of preferring to do business with people who are committed to seeing this community move forward. Motion offered by Councilman Gilbert, seconded by Councilman Campbell to approve this on first reading. There being no further discussion on this item,the motion to approve on first reading passed and carried by a 7-0 vote. Councilman Bratton: Yes Councilman Campbell: Yes Councilman Gilbert: Yes Councilwoman Pritchett: Yes Vice Mayor Watson: Yes Councilman Williams: Yes Mayor Gibson: Yes (I) ORDINANCES) FOR SECOND READING/PUBLIC HEARING(S): ORDINANCE NO. 2008-19-155 I-1) AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA, CREATING THE CITY OF MIAMI GARDENS MIAMI GARDENS PROGRESSIVE YOUNG ADULTS; PROVIDING FOR MEMBERSHIP; PROVIDING FOR TERMS OF OFFICE; PROVIDING FOR ORGANIZATION; PROVIDING FOR DUTIES AND POWERS; 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 VICE MAYOR BARBARA WATSON) (1sT READING—APRIL 23,2008) Vice Mayor Watson explained this ordinance provides an opportunity for young adults in the community to become active participants in government. Mayor Gibson opened the floor for public comments. Peter Agbeyegbe, 1001 NW 197'Terrace, Miami Gardens,Florida,appeared before the City Regular City Council Minutes 10 May 14,2008 Council in support of this item. Lee Banishore, 520 NW 108 'Terrace, Miami, Florida, appeared before the City Council in support of this item. There being no other interested parties to speak on this item, the public hearing was closed. Mayor Gibson inquired as to whether there was a specific age group, which would identify the young professionals. Vice Mayor Watson said the age requirement would be outlined in the by-laws. Motion offered by Vice Mayor Watson, seconded by Councilman Campbell to adopt this ordinance. There being no further discussion,the motion to adopt this ordinance passed and carried by a 7-0 vote. Councilman Campbell: Yes Councilman Gilbert: Yes Councilwoman Pritchett: Yes Vice Mayor Watson: Yes Councilman Williams: Yes Councilman Bratton: Yes Mayor Gibson: Yes (K) RESOLUTION(S) RESOLUTION NO.2008-87-774 K-1) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA, ENDORSING THE HEALTHCARE REFORM PRINCIPALS OF THE NATIONAL AFL-CIO; PROVIDING FOR THE ADOPTION OF REPRESENTATIONS; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. (SPONSORED BY COUNCILWOMAN SHARON PRITCHETT) Councilwoman Pritchett shared her rationale for sponsoring this item. She said there are thousands of Miami Gardens' residents who have the potential of benefiting from such an initiative. Motion offered by Councilwoman Pritchett, seconded by Councilman Gilbert to approve this item. This motion passed and carried by a 7-0 voice vote. (.I) CONSENT AGENDA/RESOLUTION(S) RESOLUTION NO.2008-88-775 J-1) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA, RATIFYING COUNCILMAN ANDRE' WILLIAM'S APPOINTMENT OF, DENISE WHITE, TO Regular City Council Minutes 11 May 14,2008 THE CITY OF MIAMI GARDENS COMMISSION FOR WOMEN FOR A TERM OF THREE (3) YEARS; PROVIDING FOR THE ADOPTION OF REPRESENTATIONS;PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. (SPONSORED BY COUNCILMAN ANDRE WILLIAMS) RESOLUTION NO. 2008-89-776 J-2) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA, RATIFYING COUNCILMAN ANDRE' WILLIAM'S APPOINTMENT OF,ROSETTA P.NELSON, TO THE CITY OF MIAMI GARDENS COMMISSION FOR WOMEN FOR A TERM OF TWO (2) YEARS; PROVIDING FOR THE ADOPTION OF REPRESENTATIONS;PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. (SPONSORED BY COUNCILMAN ANDRE WILLIAMS) RESOLUTION NO. 2008-90-777 J-3) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA, RATIFYING COUNCILMAN OLIVER GILBERT'S APPOINTMENT OF MIGUEL HERNANDEZ, JR., GERALDINE SOLOMON, AND ANSELM SMITH, TO THE CITY OF MIAMI GARDENS CITIZENS ADVISORY COMMITTEE, FOR A TERM OF TWO (2), THREE (3) AND FOUR (4) YEARS, RESPECTIVELY; PROVIDING FOR THE ADOPTION OF REPRESENTATIONS; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. (SPONSORED BY COUNCILMAN OLIVER G. GILBERT III) RESOLUTION NO. 2008-91-778 J-4) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA, PROVIDING A SPONSORSHIP IN THE AMOUNT OF$5,000.00 TO WORLDCARE,INC.,IN SUPPORT OF A CELEBRITY GOLF TOURNAMENT & BANQUET; PROVIDING FOR THE ADOPTION OF REPRESENTATIONS; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. (SPONSORED BY VICE MAYOR BARBARA WATSON) RESOLUTION NO. 2008-92-779 J-5) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA, AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO ISSUE A PURCHASE ORDER TO SOFTWARE HOUSE INTERNATIONAL D/B/A SHI IN THE AMOUNT OF $205,000.00, BY RELYING UPON THAT CERTAIN STATE OF FLORIDA BID NUMBER 255-001-01-1; PROVIDING FOR THE ADOPTION OF REPRESENTATIONS;PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. (SPONSORED BY THE CITY MANAGER) Regular City Council Minutes 12 May 14,2008 RESOLUTION NO. 2008-93-780 J-6) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA, AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO TAKE ANY AND ALL STEPS NECESSARY TO APPLY FOR, AND RECEIVE, A 2008 URBAN AND COMMUNITY FORESTRY GRANT FROM THE FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE AND CONSUMER SERVICES; AUTHORIZING A MATCH OF FUNDS OF UP TO $10,000.00 FOR THIS PURPOSE; PROVIDING FOR THE ADOPTION OF REPRESENTATIONS; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.(SPONSORED BY THE CITY MANAGER) RESOLUTION NO. 2008-94-781 J-7) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA, AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO ISSUE A PURCHASE ORDER IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED$50,000.00 TO SUPERIOR LANDSCAPING AND LAWN SERVICE FOR THE PURCHASE AND PLANTING OF ROYAL PALM AND FOXTAIL PALM TREES; PROVIDING FOR THE ADOPTION OF REPRESENTATIONS;PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. (SPONSORED BY THE CITY MANAGER) RESOLUTION NO. 2008-95-782 J-8) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA, URGING THE BROAD FOUNDATION TO BESTOW THE ONE MILLION BROAD PRIZE FOR URBAN EDUCATION TO MIAMI-DADE COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS FOR THE SUCCESS OF NORLAND MIDDLE SCHOOL; PROVIDING FOR INSTRUCTIONS TO THE CITY CLERK; PROVIDING FOR THE ADOPTION OF REPRESENTATIONS; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. (SPONSORED BY VICE MAYOR BARBARA WATSON) RESOLUTION NO. 2008-96-783 J-9) RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI GARDENS,FLORIDA,AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO TAKE ANY AND ALL STEPS NECESSARY IN ORDER FOR THE CITY OF MIAMI GARDENS TO BECOME A DONATE LIFE WORKPLACE PARTNER; PROVIDING FOR THE ADOPTION OF REPRESENTATIONS; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. (SPONSORED BY COUNCILMAN OLIVER G. GILBERT III) Motion offered by Vice Mayor Watson, seconded by Councilman Bratton to adopt the Consent Agenda. This motion passed and carried by 7-0 voice vote. (L) REPORTS OF CITY MANAGER AND CITY ATTORNEY. Regular City Council Minutes 13 May 14,2008 Manager Crew recounted approximately two years ago the County Manager had indicated he would be eliminating the Specialized Service Fee being charged to the City of Miami Gardens. At that time Mr. Burgess felt this was an unfair charge and would be willing to end it over a period of time. Two years ago the City paid 5.7 Million Dollars; this year the City paid 3.4 Million Dollars and next year the City was suppose to pay 1.9 Million Dollars. Furthermore the State of Florida passed a law in July that staff believes provides that the City does not have an obligation to pay the service fee. Based upon that law the City has been putting into a reserve account those payments, which would have gone to Miami-Dade County for Specialized Services. Those funds will by the end of the year,total close to 4.8 Million Dollars. Manager Crew shared he had received a call from Mr. Burgess recently asking if the City could release those funds, in return there will be no more charges to the City for Specialized Services. He said he has been in discussions with the City Attorney about this matter. He stated from what he has been able to ascertain, once this is done, all cities will be under the same system and billed equally for any Specialized Services being utilized. He said he would like to release those funds to Miami-Dade County and opined there is no big advance to the City for holding on to the funds. Manager Crew said this would provide the City with opportunities for its police department,for example when a domestic violence situation occurs,the City has to wait one to two hours for a Miami- Dade County Domestic Violence unit to arrive. This would provide the City with an opportunity to develop its own Domestic Violence unit. Councilman Gilbert asked whether the 1.9 Million Dollars would also pay for police personnel. Manager Crew in response to Councilman Gilbert's question replied, "Yes." Mayor Gibson asked whether this matter would have to go before the County Commission with this item. Manager Crew in response to Mayor Gibson's question replied he was not sure. Councilman Williams stated as an attorney he was concerned about the possible litigation aspects of this situation. Councilman Campbell stated he is in favor of the City Manager's recommendation because no matter what happens it puts the City's police department ahead by one year;ultimately the City's police will have to provide its own services and sever all police relationship with Miami-Dade County. He opined as soon as the City's police department takes over these services now being provided by Miami- Dade County, the sooner the City can start saving money. Manager Crew explained the 1.9 Million Dollars will cover the salaries but it will not cover equipment and vehicles. Therefore, the City will have to float a small bond to cover those capital improvement items. Councihnan Campbell expressed concern about additional space for those other police units. Manager Crew explained the Wachovia Building can be utilized as additional space for the police department to house those other units. Regular City Council Minutes 14 May 14,2008 (M) REPORTS OF MAYOR AND COUNCIL MEMBERS. Councilman Bratton commended Mayor Gibson on an excellent State of The City Address present Tuesday, May 13, 2008. Councilman Williams announced the Miami Gardens Jaycees Distinguished Service Awards event is scheduled for June 28, 2008. Nominations are now being accepted for: Teacher of the Year; Parent of the Year; Student of the Year; Small Business of the Year; Humanitarian of the Year. (N) WRITTEN REQUESTS, PETITIONS & OTHER WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE PUBLIC. None (0) ADJOURNMENT. There being no further business to come before this Body, and upon a motion being duly made by Councilman Gilbert this meeting adjourned at 10:30 p.m. at"Iez. Attest: Shirl ' son ayor Ronetta Taylor, CMC, Q0 Clerk Regular City Council Minutes 15 May 14,2008