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HomeMy WebLinkAboutJune 11, 2008 CITY OF MIAMI GARDENS REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MINUTES JUNE 119 2008 (A) CALL TO ORDER/ROLL CALL The City Council for the City of Miami Gardens, Florida, met in regular session on Wednesday, June 11, 2008, beginning at 7: 10 p.m. , in the City Council Chambers, 1515 NW 167th 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. , Andre Williams, Melvin L. Bratton, Sharon Pritchett and Oliver G. Gilbert. Also in attendance were: City Manager Dr. Danny 0. Crew, City Attorney Sonja K. Dickens and City Clerk Ronetta Taylor. (B) INVOCATION Delivered by Dr. Lester Brown. (C) PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Recited in unison. (D) APPROVAL OF MINUTES Regular City Council Meeting - May 28, 2008 Motion offered by Vice Mayor Watson, seconded by Councilman Bratton 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): The following item was added to the official agenda as Item J-8. "A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA, RATIFYING VICE-MAYOR BARBARA WATSON'S APPOINTMENT OF JOI RENIQUE BOTTINO TO THE CITY OF MIAMI GARDENS MIAMI GARDENS PROGRESSIVE YOUNG ADULTS FOR A TERM OF THREE (2) YEARS; PROVIDING FOR THE ADOPTION OF REPRESENTATIONS; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE." Motion offered by Councilman Bratton, seconded by Councilman Gilbert to pull Items J-2, andJ-3 from the Consent Agenda, for more clarification. This motion passed and carried by a 7-0 voice vote. Motion offered by Councilwoman Pritchett, seconded by Councilman to pull Item J-4 from the Consent Agenda for more clarification. This motion passed and carried by a 7-0 voice vote. Regular City Council Minutes June 11,2008 Councilman Bratton requested to have Item F-4 moved forward on the agenda. Motion offered by Councilman Gilbert, seconded by Councilman Bratton to approve the official agenda with the additions/deletions and changes . This motion passed and carried by a 7-0 voice vote. Motion offered by Councilman Bratton, seconded by Councilman Gilbert to pull Items J-2, and J-3 from the Consent Agenda, for more clarification. This motion passed and carried by a 7-0 voice vote. Motion offered by Councilwoman Pritchett, seconded by Councilman to pull Item J-4 from the Consent Agenda for more clarification. This motion passed and carried by a 7-0 voice vote. Councilman Bratton requested to have Item F-4 moved forward on the agenda. Motion offered by Councilman Gilbert, seconded by Councilman Bratton to approve the official agenda with the additions/deletions and changes . This motion passed and carried by a 7-0 voice vote . (F) SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS (5 minutes each) Ula Zucker, Events and Media Coordinator appeared before the City Council to expound on this program, which was inspired as a result of the Miss Miami Gardens Scholarship program. This is a seven week mentoring program designed for young females between the ages of 13-23, and assist with enhancing their professional and social skills. The kick-off for this program is July 26, 2008 . Councilman Bratton conveyed support of this program and commended staff for their efforts. Councilwoman Pritchett inquired about the maximum number of participants in this seven week program Ms . Zucker in response to Councilwoman Pritchett said 20-25 participants would be acceptable. Councilwoman Pritchett asked whether the City has partnered with any other organizations to assist with this endeavor. Ms . Zucker stated the City is in partnership with other organizations. Councilman Campbell said it would nice if there was a male counterpart to the GSM' s. Regular City Council Minutes 2 June 11,2008 Mayor Gibson opined that might be something that can come out of the auspices of the Progressive Young Adult Committee. Vice Mayor Watson thanked staff for its observation, and addressing it in way that would fulfill a need that is surely considered necessary. Councilman Gilbert volunteered to sponsor a luncheon for the GEM participants. F-2) Miami Gardens Police Department Monthly Report. Chief Matthew Boyd appeared before the City Council to provide the monthly Police Report and reported there was a slight increase by two percent in crime from the month of April to May. Year-to- date the City is down by seven percent in targeted crimes (May 2007- May 2008) . Homicides, robberies and sexual batteries are down this month. Burglaries were up significantly. Arrests were made including that of three subjects who had broken into the home of one of the police department' s civilian employees . One of subjects arrested confessed to having committed 12 burglaries . That individual was only 15 years of age. A couple of Miami Gardens' officers are doing print cases, even though the Miami-Dade Police Department is supposed to handle this detail. Those prints are then sent to the Crime Lab. As a result of the print cases, individuals have been identified and will be charged accordingly. Arrests are down by 140, which is due to the amount of calls received. There has been an increase of 812 calls for the month of May. During the last City Council meeting, the police department made a significant robbery arrest. Furthermore, the two subjects that had committed a rape and robbery in North Miami Beach were arrested. Both subjects (one age 13 and one age 18) were residents of the City of Miami Gardens. Assault arrests continue to be high. Detectives are actively following up on these cases. The Narcotics and Crime Suppression Unit continue to be aggressive in pursuing violators . Within the last 48 hours four search warrants have been served with the following results: 7 arrests, 11 firearms seized, over 10 grams of cocaine, over 150 grams of marijuana, and cash in excess of $3, 300 . 00 . Also within the last 48 hours as part of the 7 arrests, one was a Juvenile Probation Officer. Of the 11 firearms seized, three were AK-47' s . Chief Boyd recounted when the police department took over police services six months ago, he had predicted the police department would seize approximately 300 weapons off the street by the year end. However, within this first six months the police department has exceeded that number, as of this day over 175 weapons have been seized. Councilman Williams asked how many AK-47' s have been seized thus far. Regular City Council Minutes 3 June 11,2008 Chief Body said the police department has seized between 7 and 8 AK-47' s within its first six months of operation. He further reported on the Juvenile detail, which has been enhanced and includes a detective who will focus on gang activity. There were 47 Truant arrests; 19 felony arrests; and 9 misdemeanor arrests. Furthermore, six firearms were seized from that Juvenile detail. The two officers that work that detail are going to be recognized tonight as Officers of the Month. Seven new gangs have been identified and the police department is actively working with outside sources to dismantle them. The Juvenile and Gang Officers will concentrate on juvenile related crimes during the summer months. The police department is also partnering with other agencies to gather intelligence and apprehend offenders. Chief Boyd further reported the police department is working with the City' s Community Development, Parks and the Finance departments in order to secure additional funding through various grant sources. Chief Boyd reported on June 7, 2008, a detail was conducted at Carol Mart and discovered a lot of items are being pawned there. This detail was conducted in conjunction with Code Enforcement. Two hundred individuals were arrested, one for narcotics charges and one for manufacturing boot-leg DVD' s ($60, 000) worth of products. Chief Boyd reported an ATV' s operation was done on May 25, 2008 . Ten individuals were cited and nine individuals were arrested; 12 vehicles were impounded, one vehicle was taken in an armed robbery. Trespass authorization has been secured from Cornerstone Property and Home Deport for the vacant land on NW 27th Avenue and 191St Street. Warning notices are being issued to riders. Chief Boyd reported on the Neighborhood Watch Program held, Saturday, June 7, 2008. Fifty residents were in attendance, with 25 of those signing up for the Neighborhood Watch in their communities. The first meeting of the Citizens Advisory Committee is scheduled for Monday, July 21, 2008 . Those meetings will be held the third Monday of each month. Chief Boyd reported the Emergency Operation Center is operational. A hurricane exercise was conducted to test the preparedness of City of Miami Gardens staff. This exercise was conducted in two parts. CERT was present and provided expertise and suggestions on how to use these resources. Councilman Gilbert for clarification purposes asked whether the Juvenile Probation Officer arrested was a Miami-Dade County employee. Chief Boyd said the individual arrested was a Miami-Dade County Juvenile Probation Officer. Regular City Council Minutes 4 June 11,2008 Councilman Gilbert said the boot-leg DVD vendors are everywhere and encouraged the police department to continue this enforcement. Chief Boyd insured that if the officers see it they will deal with it along with Code Enforcement. Councilman Williams asked if the guns that are seized purchased over the counter or are they illegally attained. Chief Boyd responded that most of the weapons were taken during burglaries. a. Officers of month -April Edwin Rosado and Carlos Velez Chief Boyd presented Officer Rosado and Velez with Officers of the Month plaques for their work in the juvenile truancy unit, which was funded by grant money provided through the parks and recreation department. He added that the funding has thus run out, however since the operation was a success the department has decided to use additional funds from the police operation fund. Councilman Bratton asked will the additional funding be short or long term? Manager Crew, responded it is totally up to the priorities of the police department, unless we can get a permanently grant. Mayor Gibson commended the two officer for a job well done. F-3) Buxton Company-Site Selection for Retail Matching Daniel Rosemond, Community Development Director, appeared before the City Council. He reported that in March the Council agreed to engage with Buxton to perform a study to assess the lack of retail within the City and to identify the national retails that would best fit the City. At this point Buxton has provided a report and is available for review by the Council. Three trade areas were identified within the city, which is 27th Avenue, U.S. 441, and the Palmetto corridor; now it is required that the City identify a site to continue. Buxton recommended that the retail matching site should be 441; however staff recommends 27th Avenue because of the land availability and the presence Dolphin Stadium. Councilman Williams stated that he has looked at the report but he would like a presentation from Buxton in order make a decision. Councilman Campbell indicated that he has read the report and statistically Buxton may be correct, but he would like to go with staff' s recommendation; reason being because 27th Avenue is the City' s center and the Town Center District. Regular City Council Minutes $ June 11,2008 Mr. Rosemond added that we are not locked into doing that one location. If we picked a location and saw a finish product, then we may want to pick the next location. Councilman Williams reiterated that he would still like to get a presentation from the experts. Councilman Gilbert and Councilman Bratton concurred with Councilman Campbell . Attorney Dickens said staff is looking for a motion from the council on what direction they should go. Mr. Rosemond informed the Council that in the event they wanted a presentation Buxton will be available on June 18th. Councilwoman Pritchett stated it might not be a bad idea to get a presentation from Buxton and that it may be beneficial to give the residents an opportunity to hear a condense presentation. Councilman Gilbert expressed that if 441 was to be chosen as the retail center, Tootsies would be placed in the Retail Center of Miami Gardens . Mayor Gibson stated that was the last establishment she was thinking about as part of the retail center. Councilwoman Pritchett stated that we must keep in mind the many expansions and renovations that might take place within the corridors. Mr. Rosemond stated it is the goal of staff that at the end of this project there is going to be a workshop for residents and council members to discuss some of our long term economic goals. Councilwoman Pritchett indicated there appears to be a little un-readiness on the Council and requested that Buxton provide more information in case residents ask. Councilman Williams stated he would feel more comfortable in meeting with Buxton. He asked is there an urgency to this manner. Mr. Rosemond responded no however, we want to keep within the time frame of the contract and take into consideration the summer schedule. Councilman Gilbert stated he is ready to make a decision but if we can afford to wait, with no harm, then we can wait. Regular City Council Minutes June 11,2008 Mr. Rosemond stated he can check with Buxton on when they can meet with council . Manager Crew asked how much time is allotted for presentations, in the contract. Mr. Rosemond stated that we talk to them about doing a workshop at the end, it may cost us if we request them to do an additional presentation. Councilman Campbell declared that he has a strong feeling that majority of the City constituents would chose 27th Avenue. Mr. Rosemond added that Buxton said that it is totally up to the City where they want to locate a Matching Retail sight . Vice Mayor Watson stated there is a need in all three corridors, but there is land ready and available on 27th Avenue. This will allow us to be in control of what we want in that corridor. A motion to select NW 27th Avenue as the priority site was offered by Councilman Bratton and second by Councilman Gilbert. Councilman Williams directed the manager to have a presentation by Buxton if there is no additional cost for it. Mayor Gibson asked what would they go over when they come in on the 18th Mr. Rosemond responded they were going to come in to answer any questions the Council may have. There being no further discussion, the motion passed by a 7-0 voice vote. The Clerk was directed to post notification of this meeting. F-1 ) Miami Gardens Junior Council Quarterly Report Yasmine Law, Junior Mayor with the City of Miami Gardens Junior Council, and a Senior from Carol City Sr. High, appeared before the Council to provide highlights on the future plans and accomplishments of the Junior Council . One of their future plans is a City of Miami Gardens Library Jam; some of their accomplishments included the start of the "reading in the gardens", the youth voting registration, and their visit to the Democratic Black Caucus . (G) PUBLIC COMI ENTS Regular City Council Minutes 7 June 11,2008 Dr. Denis Rod, 2340 NW 27th Avenue Miami, FL 33142, of the China Latin America Trade Center appeared before the City Council in regards to a Resolution that will come before the City Council concerning the China Latin America Trade Center. He shared his impression and more then willing to help bring some international business to the City. He thanked Councilman Williams for a tour of the City. He expressed his concern for not seeing an international bank in Miami Gardens . Joe Chi, 2340 NW 27th Avenue Miami, FL 33142, of the China Latin America Trade Center appeared before the City Council to explaine that the China Latin America Trade Center is a private sector promotional agency, which works a lot with the People Republic of China Consulate out of Houston, TX, Greater Miami Chambers of Commerce, and 24 Latin America Countries . Basically they promote trade, tourism, and cultural affairs between China and Latin America through Miami . They have also been hosting very important people form the People Republic of China. Sporty Young, 19025 NW 23rd Avenue, Miami Gardens, FL, appeared before the City Council as representative of the Rolling Oak Ambassadors. He commented in regards the Elderly Affairs Committee report given last week; that no one from his senior group or the other five senior groups knew of the Elderly Affairs . To his knowledge he understands that there may be future appointments and he asked that the Council consider appointing members from one of the large senior group. Mayor Gibson commented that it is very important for the Council to consider appointing members from one of these large senior groups. She said it is equally important to inform the seniors in the community. She noted that there is one vacancy on the Committee and also the Council talked of doing staggered terms because every member of the Committee terms end at the same time. Councilman Gilbert asked Mr. Young to have people who would like to sit on the Elderly Affairs Committee get some applications from the City Clerk. Mr. Young asked how does the Council plan to make an appointment because the Seniors had there last meeting for the summer. Mayor Gibson said we can make sure that applications are out to the groups and also thru word of mouth. Aiyeshia Hudson, 3245 NW 204th Terrace, of the Miami Workers Center appeared before the City Council . She commented on the Resolution to come before the City Council regarding the mortgage sub-prime process. She informed the council of the major Regular City Council Minutes 8 June 11,2008 foreclosure boom that is affecting homeowners and Section 8 voucher holders; because landlords are going into foreclosure. She also conveyed belief that another reason for this crisis is predatorily lenders and opined they should be held responsible for their practices. She closed by indicating her belief that the upcoming resolution is a very important move in addressing this housing crisis. Mayor Gibson said what is key to solving this foreclosure crisis is education. She made mention of the importance to educate the community on lending process. Ms. Hudson concurred with the Mayor that educating the community is key along with holding the lenders responsible as well. Councilman Bratton asked whether Ms. Hudson' s organization educated people on responding to foreclosure notices. Ms. Hudson responded that their education is more around predatorily lending and usually forward people with those types of issues to legal services. Sharon Frazier-Stephens 145 NE 193rd Street Miami, FL, appeared before the City Council to thank two Miami Gardens Police Majors for their services. She also announced the Miami Dade County School Board will have a budget workshop on June 12, 2008 at 10: 00am. Also she suggested that the Police Department should have been located on 27th Avenue and the Council should not use the vision of having the Town Center. She requested that Tom Ruiz, Public Works Director, contact the owners of the Tropical Super Market because of a pot hole in their parking lot. She asked for the date of time of the Education Compact Kickoff. Mayor Gibson suggested Ms. Frazier-Stephens get with assistant City Manager Renee Farmer regarding the Education Compact. Enid Roberts-Marshall, 981 NW 200th Terrace Miami Gardens 33169, appeared before the City Council to request help of the Vice Mayor Watson to get Miami Towers, LLC to plant more trees within their compound because there is a vacant lot within their property. Vice Mayor Watson stated that she will definitely look into that . Dr. Lester Brown, 18801 NW 29th Court Miami Gardens, FL, appeared before the City Council to concur with the earlier statements of Councilman Campbell that there should be a young men empowerment group because the young men in this community are in bad shape. He would like to see if we can find some young men to mirror what the young women are doing for the young women of the City of Regular City Council Minutes 9 June 11,2008 Miami Gardens so that we can have a committee on men. Councilman Gilbert stated that he will work with staff to do something for the young men of Miami Gardens . Councilwoman Pritchett stated Dr. Brown did say at the Brentwood neighborhood crime watch, he would bring his resources to support any committee that we would create to help the young men of this community. Hugh Dodd, 17125 NW 19th Avenue, Miami Gardens, FL, appeared before the City Council to raise concerns that there are more concerns in regards to rushing the fulfillment of contracts than the concerns of the opinions of the tax payers . David Williams Jr. , 17640 NW 18th Avenue, Miami Gardens, FL appeared before the City Council to express his support of Item J-6 concerning an agreement with the Children' s Trust. However, to his understanding the Civil Citation Program will be dissolved next year. He believes the Civil Citation is a great program and the City Council should take charge in making some kind of statement that this program should not end. He opined that the school district should have had a representative pushing for the continuance of this program. Councilwoman Pritchett asked who should we direct a motion like that to, should the Council approve a motion to continue the Civil Citation Program? Mr. Williams responded is should be directed toward to JAK, School Board Members and the Mayor of Miami-Dade County. Mayor Gibson asked who has jurisdiction over the Civil Citation Program. Mr. Williams responded it is an agreement between JAK, School System and the Courts . Councilwoman Pritchett asked if they are taking the funding away from the program. Mr. Williams stated yes . Councilwoman Pritchett raised concerns about ending a program, which addresses charges against young people and adults criminalized. Mr. Williams concurred with Councilwoman Pritchett. Mayor Gibson asked if King Court part of the program. Regular City Council Minutes 10 June 11,2008 Mr. Williams stated no, that it is a diversionary program. Councilwoman Pritchett stated she would like to sponsor a Resolution regarding the program and asked Mr. Williams to provide any information concerning the program for that purpose. Mr. Williams said he will be sure to get that information to the Council . Councilman Campbell stated all social programs within the State of Florida are being court . And the money is being diverted to be used to build prisons; that is the ethics of the state budget. Councilman Pritchett asked what about the Children' s Trust . Mayor Gibson informed the Council that it is up to vote on whether to continue the funding for the Children' s Trust. She asked that residents think deeply of what they are saving in regards to tax cuts and ask the people to support the Children' s Trust . Councilman Gilbert recalled his experience with diversionary programs for juveniles in Broward County and asked if there are similar programs in Miami Dade County. Councilwoman Pritchett stated no the State' s Attorney' s Office has one person who determines whether a juvenile should stand trial as an adult. Chief Boyd appeared before the City Council to expound on this subject matter. He shared that most of the juveniles being arrested by the Miami Gardens police department are not being arrested for misdemeanors but felonies. He opined this program is not going to benefit the youth of Miami Gardens because these offenders have graduated from misdemeanors. Mayor Gibson in response to Chief Boyd' s comments stated the City still has to do what it can to salvage its young men. She conveyed understanding of Chief Boyd' s assessment of this situation, and the fact that youth have graduated to that level of criminology. She acknowledged that this is a challenge however, we as a people have to do everything that we can to steer these youth away from a life of crime these youth seem to be bent on participating in. She stated at the end of the day it does impact how this community and every community that looks like ours will survive for the long term. Mayor Gibson further shared the State Legislature found, in this fiscal year budget, the money to build three more prisons. She further stated if a 1, 000 young men go to prison, they are going to get out at some point. Ninety-eight percent of those young men will come back to where they left from. She opined therefore, you do not Regular City Council Minutes 11 June 11,2008 get rid of them because they go to prison. The community just takes a vacation from them. She shared convicted felonies are not able to get any type of professional licenses therefore they are not going to be able to find viable employment . She reminded everyone that social programs are the ones being cut, and these are the programs that are needed. Mr. Williams reappeared before the City Council to share there are young people being arrested every day throughout Miami-Dade County, they live in Miami Gardens, but are not being arrested by the Miami Gardens Police Department. Councilman Gilbert further shared some of these youths are on probation for a simple battery, then they violate probation, and then it escalates. Mayor Gibson stated the City can look at what type of programs it can put in place because it is important for the City to do every thing that it can to be proactive to salvage its children. Councilman Gilbert asked Manager Crew to have staff research of those entities that have intervention programs . (I� ORDINANCE(S) FOR FIRST READING: H-1) AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA, AMENDING SECTION 12 ENTITLED "MAINTENANCE OF PROPERTY, BUILDINGS, STRUCTURES, WALLS, FENCES, SIGNS, PAVEMENT AND LANDSCAPING" OF ORDINANCE NO. 2005-13-51,AS AMENDED, TO PROVIDE FOR REGULATIONS RELATING TO DRAINAGE FACILITIES; REPEALING ALL ORDINANCES IN CONFLICT; PROVIDING A SEVERABILITY CLAUSE; PROVIDING FOR INCLUSION IN CODE; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. (SPONSORED BY THE CITY MANAGER) Manager Crew explained this ordinance adds an additional violation for property maintenance. The City has had a lot of problems with solid waste systems being blocked with the property owner not fixing the problem or cleaning out the system or keeping it in working order. This would allow the City to require property owners to keep their systems clean and free of debris . Motion offered by Vice Mayor Watson, seconded by Councilman Bratton to adopt this item on first reading. There being no discussion, the motion to adopt on first reading passed and carried by a 7-0 vote. Councilman Bratton: Yes Councilman Campbell : Yes Regular City Council Minutes 12 June 11,2008 Councilman Gilbert : Yes Councilwoman Pritchett : Yes Vice Mayor Watson: Yes Councilman Williams : Yes Mayor Gibson: Yes H-2) AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA, AMENDING SECTION 12 OF ORDINANCE NO.2005-12-50,AS AMENDED,TO CHANGE THE DATE FOR THE INSTALLATION OF NEW OFFICERS;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 CLERK Clerk Taylor explained this housekeeping item provides for the installation of officers and certification of election to take place on Tuesday instead of Monday, when that Monday falls on a holiday. Motion offered by Vice Mayor Watson, seconded by Councilman Bratton to adopt this item on first reading. At the conclusion of this discussion, the motion to adopt this item on first reading passed and carried by a 7-0 vote. Councilman Gilbert : Yes Councilwoman Pritchett: Yes Vice Mayor Watson: Yes Councilman Williams : Yes Councilman Bratton: Yes Councilman Campbell : Yes Mayor Gibson: Yes (n ORDINANCE(S) FOR SECOND READING/PUBLIC HEARING(S): ORDINANCE NO. 2008-21-157 I-1) AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA, ESTABLISHING A PROCEDURE FOR COMPLYING WITH SECTION 718.616,FLORIDA STATUTES, RELATING TO CONVERSION OF BUILDINGS TO CONDOMINIUM OWNERSHIP; PROVIDING FOR ADMINISTRATION;PROVIDING FOR REVIEW REQUIREMENTS; 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) Regular City Council Minutes 13 June 11,2008 Manager Crew explained this provides for procedures pursuant to Florida Statutes, for review of apartments being converted to condominiums . There is also on tonight' s agenda a companion resolution, which established the fee schedule. Mayor Gibson opened the floor for this public hearing. After there were no interested parties to speak on this item, the public hearing closed. Motion offered by Vice Mayor Watson, seconded by Councilman Bratton to adopt this ordinance. Vice Mayor Watson asked whether HUD Housing would fall under the definition of condominiums. Manager Crew in response to Vice Mayor Watson' s question stated generally speaking government can not address ownership. Attorney Dickens further expounded on this ordinance and shared ownership is not a part of this ordinance. This ordinance only relates to the conversion of units . Vice Mayor Watson asked under this particular ordinance is there an opportunity to convert to HUD type homes . Attorney Dickens explained this particular section of the Statue provides for certain notice requirements and other provisions to be given. For example, a major developer comes in and purchases an apartment building there are certain statutory requirements that must be complied with before that apartment building can be converted into private ownership. In drafting this ordinance the City Manager is attempting to provide for limited City regulations with regards to conversions . Councilman Bratton asked whether there is a limit on how many apartment units can be converted. Manager Crew said he was not aware of a minimum or limited amount . Attorney Dickens said the City can not control that. She said she would check to see if there were any state regulations on this issue. At the conclusion of this discussion, the motion to adopt this ordinance passed and carried by a 7-0 vote. Councilwoman Pritchett: Yes Vice Mayor Watson: Yes Councilman Williams: Yes Councilman Bratton: Yes Councilman Campbell : Yes Councilman Gilbert: Yes Mayor Gibson: Yes Regular City Council Minutes 14 June 11,2008 (J) CONSENT AGENDA/RESOLUTION(S) RESOLUTION NO. 2008-113-800 J-1) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI GARDENS,FLORIDA,ESTABLISHING A FEE SCHEDULE FOR CONDOMINIUM CONVERSION REVIEWS;PROVIDING FOR THE ADOPTION OF REPRESENTATIONS; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. (SPONSORED BY THE CITY MANAGER) RESOLUTION NO. 2008-114-801 J-5) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI GARDENS,FLORIDA,AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR AND CITY CLERK TO EXECUTE AND ATTEST, RESPECTIVELY, THAT CERTAIN AGREEMENT WITH MIAMI-DADE COUNTY AND MIAMI GARDENS FOR SANITARY SEWAGE FACILITIES ALONG WITH ACCOMPANYING DOCUMENTS IN SUBSTANTIAL FORM AS THOSE DOCUMENTS ATTACHED HERETO AS COMPOSITE EXHIBIT"A",PROVIDING FOR INSTRUCTIONS TO THE CITY CLERK; PROVIDING FOR THE ADOPTION OF REPRESENTATIONS; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. (SPONSORED BY THE CITY MANAGER) RESOLUTION NO. 2008-115-802 J-6) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA, AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO NEGOTIATE AND ENTER INTO AN AGREEMENT WITH THE MIAMI-DADE COUNTY CHILDREN'S TRUST FOR FUNDING IN THE AMOUNT OF $750,000.00 FOR THE CITY'S VIOLENCE INITIATIVE; PROVIDING FOR THE ADOPTION OF REPRESENTATIONS; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. (SPONSORED BY THE CITY MANAGER) RESOLUTION NO. 2008-116-803 J-7) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA, RATIFYING VICE-MAYOR BARBARA WATSON'S APPOINTMENT OF PETER AGBEYEGBE, TO THE CITY OF MIAMI GARDENS MIAMI GARDENS PROGRESSIVE YOUNG ADULTS FOR A TERM OF THREE (3) YEARS; PROVIDING FOR THE ADOPTION OF REPRESENTATIONS; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. (SPONSORED BY VICE MAYOR BARBARA WATSON) RESOLUTION NO. 2008-117-804 J-8) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA, RATIFYING VICE-MAYOR Regular City Council Minutes 15 June 11,2008 BARBARA WATSON'S APPOINTMENT OF JOI RENIQUE BOTTINO TO THE CITY OF MIAMI GARDENS MIAMI GARDENS PROGRESSIVE YOUNG ADULTS FOR A TERM OF THREE (2) YEARS; PROVIDING FOR THE ADOPTION OF REPRESENTATIONS; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. (SPONSORED BY VICE MAYOR WATSON) Motion offered by Vice Mayor Watson, seconded by Councilman Gilbert to adopt the Consent Agenda. This motion passed and carried by a 7-0 voice vote. (K) RESOLUTION(S) RESOLUTION NO. 2008-118-805 J-2) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI GARDENS,FLORIDA,URGING THE FEDERAL RESERVE BOARD TO ENACT RELIEF MEASURES IN RESPONSE TO THE GROWING SUBPRIME MORTGAGE CRISIS IN THE UNITED STATES; PROVIDING FOR INSTRUCTIONS TO THE CITY CLERK; PROVIDING FOR THE ADOPTION OF REPRESENTATIONS; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. (SPONSORED BY COUNCILMAN ANDRE WILLIAMS) Councilman Bratton a detail explanation of this problem was outlined during a presentation made earlier in the meeting. He conveyed his support of this item. Councilwoman Pritchett conveyed support of this item. She said the resolution references a letter, which is not included in the backup documentation. She asked for a copy of this letter. Councilman Williams indicated this information was given to the City Attorney. Attorney Dickens said she did have a copy of this letter however, she does not prepare the backup for the agenda package. She explained the language listed in the second whereas clause is the same information provided in the letter. Motion offered by Vice Mayor Watson, seconded by Councilman Gilbert to approve this item. At the conclusion of this discussion, the motion to approve passed and carried by a 7-0 voice vote. RESOLUTION NO. 2008-119-806 J-3) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA, ACKNOWLEDGING THE CHINA LATIN AMERICAN TRADE CENTER; PROVIDING FOR THE Regular City Council Minutes 16 June 11,2008 ADOPTION OF REPRESENTATIONS;PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. (SPONSORED BY COUNCILMAN ANDRE WILLIAMS) Councilman Bratton indicated that he had heard the presentation presented by the two speakers earlier in the meeting. He asked Councilman Williams if he could elaborate on how the City of Miami Gardens will be able to benefit from this venture. Councilman Williams in response to Councilman Bratton' s question explained South Florida is the gateway to the Americas and there is quite a bit of trade between the United States and other countries, through Miami . He opined the City of Miami Gardens can benefit from some of this expertise. Motion offered by Councilman Bratton, seconded by Vice Mayor Watson to approve this item. Councilman Bratton said he is all for progress in the City of Miami Gardens . He asked whether Councilman Williams felt import and export businesses would assist with the City' s progress . Councilman Williams said international businesses are looking to do business in South Florida and other parts of the United States . Those businesses can look at Miami Gardens as one of those places they can relocate their businesses . He opined with our economy, the City can use the business. Councilman Bratton said one of the presenters mentioned international banking in Miami Gardens and asked whether the applicable numbers were there to make that happen in the future. Councilman Williams said that might be a possibility however, it is important the City start to build relationships with organizations like this . He said we want to build a world class city here and this is a part of building that world class city. Councilman Gilbert asked whether this organization was not- for-profit or for-profit . Councilman Williams in response to Councilman Gilbert' s question said this organization was not-for-profit . Councilman Gilbert said the Council was not presented with any type of documentation as to what type of trades would be encouraged. He commented, not all trades are good trades . He said there are a lot of issues the Council would not ordinarily get into when it supports something, without any background information. He further shared that from his research he found that this organization is actually a for-profit corporation, registered to do business for-profit . He opined the City should Regular City Council Minutes 17 June 11,2008 be careful with what it encourages with regard to trade with China. Councilman Williams said this organization promotes such groups as the City of Miami Mayors' International conference, the Latin American Chamber of Commerce, the Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce, the Beacon Council, and the Miami-Dade County International Trade Consortium. He opined if this is good enough for them then it is good enough for the City. He opined the City should be in the business of supporting and building relationships with people from other countries . Councilman Gilbert shared that he had played golf with individuals from China and can appreciate having relationships with individuals from other countries . He conveyed concern with because other people are doing it, it is right, and it is good for the City to do it independently without having the basis for that. He opined this might be the right thing to do but Councilman Williams has presented the Council with literally no information. Councilman Williams said if the Council feels strongly about supporting China perhaps a separate resolution should be considered. Councilman Gilbert clarified that this is not about supporting China, it is about supporting what a private company does . He said by adopting this item, the Council would be speaking on behalf of the 110, 000 residents of Miami Gardens . He suggested that a company profile or a list of clients would have appropriate in this case. He said if this comes back, and this organization has clients that are embarrassing to the City, that the Council should have known about, they will all be on the hook. Councilman Williams shared he has a brochure which describes this organizations . He conveyed his disagreement with comments made by Councilman Gilbert about this being a for-profit corporation because the brochure indicated non-profit . Councilman Gilbert shared because he did not have any background information provided from staff, he has information provided by the Florida Department of State, which is a for-profit corporation and list as 2340 NW 27th Avenue. The name of this corporation as the China Latin American Trade Center, Incorporated and that information all corresponds with the presenters heard earlier tonight . He said he would be willing to revisit that interpretation if he had something to contradict it . Councilman Williams conveyed understanding of Councilman Gilbert' s un-readiness . Tonight, the presenters conveyed Regular City Council Minutes 18 June 11,2008 willingness to doing business with Miami Gardens . He shared that he feels comfortable with these individuals . He further shared that he attended a function sponsored by this organization, which was well attended by city and state officials . Mayor Gibson related an incident which occurred while attend the National Black Mayors' Conference . She said the Mayor of Tuskegee, Alabama brought forward a resolution for the Mayors to vote on that was quite controversial . Vice Mayor Watson asked Councilman Williams if he would reconsider this resolution and provide the Council with more indebt information for consideration at the next Council meeting. Councilman Williams stated that he was not opposed to bringing this item back. He asked what additional information did the Council need. Vice Mayor Watson said providing some of the information Councilman Gilbert had mentioned such as why this would be feasible for the City to support. Councilwoman Pritchett opined the Council must be careful how it approaches businesses that come before the Council that are for-profit . Attorney Dickens indicated this is a policy decision and the Council would need to determine what its policy is going to be. If the question is whether the Council can support for-profit corporations, the answer is yes, there is no legal prohibition on doing that . Councilwoman Pritchett thanked Councilman Williams for bringing this item forward because it created a dialogue for which the Council thought about addressing this kind of issue. She opined without having a procedure in place, the Council may be opening up a f lood gate that may need to be opened, but not at this time until some kind of legislation in place to guide the Council . Councilman Williams opined the City should have policies and procedures however, he was not proposing that at present, with all due respect . He said he would be happy to accept the Council' s guidance with regard to this resolution. He asked for specific guidance from the Council in order for the members to feel comfortable in adopting this resolution. Councilman Gilbert expressed concern that the resolution is acknowledging this organization as a company without knowing anything about this company. He emphasized the importance of Regular City Council Minutes 19 June 11,2008 providing sufficient backup documentation to support the statements in the resolution. He shared that he had tried to find out more about the organization but there was nothing to find. Councilman Williams reiterated the importance of providing him with specific guidance as to what it is the Council wants in order to support this resolution. Councilman Gilbert said without knowing any specifics about the company itself it is hard to identify what information is needed. At the conclusion of discussion motion offered by Vice Mayor Watson, seconded by Councilman Bratton to remove this item this item from the Agenda. This motion passed and carried by a 7-0 voice vote . RESOLUTION NO.2008-120-807 J-4) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA, AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO ISSUE A CHANGE ORDER TO SUNGARD OSSI IN THE AMOUNT OF$178,060.00;PROVIDING FOR THE ADOPTION OF REPRESENTATIONS; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. (SPONSORED BY THE CITY MANAGER) Councilwoman Pritchett for clarification purposes asked who does the inputting of the reports . Manager Crew in response to Councilwoman Pritchett question stated the police officers inputs the reports . Councilwoman Pritchett referenced the original contract approved September 2007, and asked whether the twenty percent discount granted to the City is broken down anywhere in the document . She commented this package is structured differently than what was presented the first time. She stated some of the items are higher as opposed to being twenty percent lesser. Manager Crew opined the pricing has changed since that original contract was executed. Councilwoman Pritchett said she was uncomfortable with not having the comparison as part of this information. She placed emphasis on the importance of providing proper documentation, when spending taxpayer' s money, so that if the residents ask, the information is there. Manager Crew said no comparison was provided in this packet . Staff could however, provide this information. He emphasized every computer station within the City has to have a license. Regular City Council Minutes 20 June 11,2008 Motion offered by Councilwoman Pritchett, seconded by Councilman Gilbert to approve this item. At the conclusion of discussion on this item, the motion to approve passed and carried by a 6-1 voice vote. Councilwoman Pritchett cast the dissenting vote. (L) REPORTS OF CITY MANAGER AND CITY ATTORNEY. Attorney Dickens congratulated Mayor Gibson, and Councilmen Campbell and Williams for being re-elected to their positions. She reported the City received notification that the Miami-Dade PBA has filed a petition with the State of Florida PERC. The City has retained legal counsel to assist with the petition filed by the regular employees' union. In fact, training with department heads and directors will take place on tomorrow, at City Hall. She asked for the authority to retain the same firm with the PBA petition. Motion offered by Vice Mayor Watson, seconded by Councilman Gilbert to authorize the City Attorney to retain the same firm as being used for the General Employees, for the PBA Petition. There being no further discussion this motion passed and carried by a 7-0 vote. Attorney Dickens invited members of the Council to attend this training, which will take place on Thursday, June 12, 2008, beginning at 10: 30 a.m. She asked the City Clerk to post notice of this training session. Manager Crew announced the Ethics Training will take place on June 18, 2008 from 2 : 00 - 5: 00 p.m. , in the City Council Chambers. Manager Crew further announced the Strategic Planning sessions will take place on Friday, July 11, 2008 and Saturday, July 12, 2008 from 8 : 30 am. - 5: 00 p.m. , at the Kovens Center (FIU North Campus) in North Miami Beach. Community sessions are underway throughout the community. The Hurricane Expo is scheduled for June 21, 2008 at the WalMart Superstore on NW 199th Street and 27th Avenue. Manager Crew said the budget this year will have some very unpleasant choices to be made. He stated as it stands right now, it does not appear that he can balance the budget, without making some very unpleasant choices. Those unpleasant choices fall to the Council. By a consensus of the Council, a budget workshop was scheduled for Monday, June 23, 2008 from 3: 00 - 6: 00 p.m. , in the City Council Chambers. Councilman Campbell broached the subject of notification for this workshop. Regular City Council Minutes 21 June 11,2008 Clerk Taylor stated that she advertise the workshop. This notification will be placed in the Neighbor' s section of the Miami Herald, Thursday, June 19tH Councilman Campbell stressed the importance of letting the citizens know about this meeting and how important their input is due to the choices the Council will need to make. He said the citizens need to have a good understanding of what will take place. Councilman Williams suggested adding language to the notification advising residents of the relevant issues to be discussed at this very important workshop. Mayor Gibson asked the Manager and City Clerk to work together to come up with applicable language for the notification. Manager Crew announced the Children' s Trust approved an additional $75, 000 . 00 grant. (M) REPORTS OF MAYOR AND COUNCIL MEMBERS. Councilman Gilbert shared he had attended the community strategic planning meeting at Scott Park on last evening. He said there were approximately four (4) people in attendance. He encouraged his colleagues to emphasize, re-emphasize, the fact that residents need to be involved in this process. He stated these workshops are specifically to gather residents' input on how they want to see their community proceed. Vice Mayor Watson shared that the community meeting for residential area seat 2 will take place on tomorrow night. She said she has been making follow-up phone calls to the flier provided by staff. She shared that she has also invited interested parties from the Progressive Young Adults Committee to be a part. Councilman Campbell suggested a more comprehensive notification for the June 28th Community meeting, which will be hosted by UP-PAC, at Greater New Bethel Baptist Church. Horace McHugh, Assistant City Manager appeared before the City Council to expound on what has been done thus far. He shared this information is on the City' s website, and translated in both Spanish and English. That information has been sent to the press, as well as to all of the homeowner associations. Councilman Gilbert shared that he was trying to navigate the new City website, and opined the old website was simpler. He said the new website does not appear to be as user friendly. Councilman Bratton wished all the fathers present a Happy Father' s Day on June 15th. Vice Mayor Watson passed out a tiny gold key, which will be Regular City Council Minutes 22 June 11,2008 given to all the members graduating class of Norland Senior High School. In addition to the key, each student will receive a letter of congratulations. She then presented Dr. Lester Brown with one of the tiny gold keys. Councilman Williams shared he had attended one of the Strategic Planning Sessions and commended the facilitators for doing a great job in engaging people. He further announced the Miami Jaycees' Distinguished Service Awards Ceremony will take place on Saturday, June 28, 2008, at St. Thomas University. (N) WRITTEN REQUESTS, PETITIONS & OTHER WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE PUBLIC. (0) ADJOURNMENT. There being no other business to come before this Body, and upon a motion being duly made by Councilman Bratton the meeting adjourned at 10 : 25 p.m. Attest: Shirl y ib on, Mayor onetta Taylor CMC, City Clerk Regular City Council Minutes 23 June 11,2008