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HomeMy WebLinkAboutFebruary 25, 2009MINUTES FOR FEBRUARY 25, ~ 2009 CITY OF MIAMI GARDENS REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MINUTES FEBRUARY 25, 2009 (A) CALL TO ORDER/ROLL CALL The City Council for the City of Miami Gardens, Florida, met in regular session on Wednesday, February 25, 2009, beginning at 7:25 p.m., in the City Council Chambers, 1515 NW 167t" Street, Bldg. 5, Suite 200, Miami Gardens, Florida. The following members of the City Council were present: Vice Mayor Barbara Watson and Council members Aaron Campbell Jr., Melvin L. Bratton, Andre Williams, Councilwoman Sharon Pritchett and Councilman Oliver G. Gilbert III. Mayor Shirley Gibson was out of town attending a Mayor's meeting with President Obama. Motion offered by Councilman Gilbert, seconded by Councilman Bratton to excuse Mayor Gibson's absence. Also in attendance were: Deputy City Manager Renee Farmer sitting in for City Manager Danny O. Crew, who was out of town; City Attorney Sonja K. Dickens and City Clerk Ronetta Taylor. (B) INVOCATION Invocation delivered by Dr. Lester Brown (C) PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Recited in unison. (D) APPROVAL OF MINUTES D-1) Special City Council Minutes -February 11, 2009 Motion offered by Councilwoman Pritchett, seconded by Councilman Bratton to approve the minutes, with necessary corrections, if any. This motion passed and carried by a 6-0 voice vote. D-2) Regular City Council Minutes -February 11, 2009 Motion offered by Councilman Campbell, seconded by Councilwoman Pritchett to approve the minutes, with necessary corrections, if any. This motion passe and carried by a 6-0 voice vote. (E) ORDER OF BUSINESS (Items to be pulled from Consent Agenda at this time) The official agenda was amended to add as Item F-2, Legislative Update with Yolanda Cash Jackson. The following item was added to the official agenda as Item H-2) "AN ORDINANCE OF Regular City Council Minutes February 25, 2009 Page 1 MINUTES FOR FEBRUARY 25, ~ 2009 THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA, AMENDING THE CITY'S SIGN CODE AS ADOPTED BY ORDINANCE NO. 2008-04-140; PROVIDING FOR A DEFINITION AND REGULATIONS FOR NONCOMMERCIAL COPY; PROVIDING FOR ADOPTION OF REPRESENTATIONS; REPEALING ALL ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS IN CONFLICT; PROVIDING A SEVERABILITY CLAUSE; PROVIDING FOR INCLUSION IN CODE; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. (SPONSORED BY THE CITY MANAGER) The following items were added to the official agenda as Items J-17 and J-18, respectively. "A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA, SUPPORTING THE CITY OF MIAMI AND THE WORLD WILDLIFE FUND'S EARTH HOUR INITIATIVE ON MARCH 28, 2009, FROM 8:30 PM TO 9:30 PM; PROVIDING FOR THE ADOPTION OF REPRESENTATIONS; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. (SPONSORED BY COUNCILMAN OLIVER G. GILBERT III)" "A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA, SUPPORTING MIAMI-DADE COUNTY SCHOOL BOARD'S 2009 STATE AND FEDERAL LEGISLATIVE PROGRAM; PROVIDING FOR THE ADOPTION OF REPRESENTATIONS; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.(SPONSORED BY MAYOR SHIRLEY GIBSON)" Councilman Bratton added the Miss Miami Gardens Scholarship Pageant Winners as F-3. Motion offered by Councilwoman Pritchett, seconded by Councilman Gilbert to pull Items J-1; J-2; and J-3 from the Consent Agenda. The motions passed and carried by a 6-0 voice vote. Attorney Dickens informed the Council of her Firm's representation of Craven Thomson and Associates, which is listed on the Consent Agenda as Item J-1 I . Motion offered by Councilman Gilbert, seconded by Councilwoman Pritchett to authorize a waiver of Conflict of Interest for the City Attorney. This motion was approved by a 6-0 voice vote. Motion offered by Councilwoman Pritchett, seconded by Councilman Gilbert to approve the official agenda with the necessary additions/deletions/additions. This motion passed and carried by a 6-0 voice vote. (F) SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS (5 minutes each) F-1) January 2009 Budget Status Report William Alonso, Finance Director for the City of Miami Gardens appeared before the City Council to report that this report represents the first quarter of this fiscal year. There was one budget amendment during the month of January in the amount of $140,295.00, relating to a COPS grant received by the Police Department. There are no increases are decreases in the fund balances are projected at this time. Regular City Council Minutes February 25, 2009 Page 2 MINUTES FOR FEBRUARY 25, ~ 2009 Mr. Alonso addressed the Financial Indicators for the General Fund and stated that City is at 51% for the General Fund Revenue is in. Ad Valorum tax dollars are received during the first months of the fiscal year, which is responsible for that high percentage. As it relates to the General Fund expenditures, the City is at 31 % of its budget for this fiscal year, which means the City is coming in slightly below on the expense side. The City has received 2.1 % on its investments. The Development Services Fund is running a deficit of $442,953 for the first quarter of this fiscal year. Councilwoman Pritchett asked Mr. Alonso what entity did the City receive the $140,295.00 grant from. Mr. Alonso in response to Councilwoman Pritchett's question stated the grant was received from the Department of Justice. Councilwoman Pritchett asked Deputy Manager Farmer to direct Mr. Alonso to include that information for the benefit of the residents. F-2) Legislative Update Yolanda Cash-Jackson, provided the Council with an update as to where the State is during this legislative session. The Governor's budget is between 6.8 and 8 Billion dollars short for this upcoming session. The Governor's budget which came out on February 20t" is being filled with some of the Stimulus money. What this means for Miami Gardens is that there are some opportunities. Staff has worked diligently with the Lobbyist in helping to prepare for any moneys that may come down. This year, the lobbyists were told to not submit any community budget requests. She said there is a possibility to fund some of Miami Gardens' water projects, through the Stimulus moneys. The other area of possible funding is through the Department of Transportation. Recently the FRDAP Grants have come out with their listing. The biggest part of the state's budget is education and health care and this is where most of the cuts will take place, unfortunately. She commented these are very dismal times in Tallahassee. If any funds are received it will be due in part on the excellent work the City of Miami Gardens' staff has done. Councilman Williams asked Ms. Cash-Jackson to expound on the Stimulus Bill. Ms. Cash-Jackson explained the approximately 12 Billion dollars will is being spread throughout, and earmarked for those projects already in the planning stages, with a quick turna- round. The whole idea is to stimulate the economy, get people working. Most of those projects will come in the form of Infrastructure projects. There is also an opportunity for education dollars, which requires a waiver. The Legislator on last week signed a letter requesting this waiver. According to the Stimulus guidelines, an entity could not have had a decrease in funding within this past year. Miami-Dade County Public Schools is taking a deep cut of approximately $100 Million Dollars. Councilwoman Pritchett expressed concern with having the stimulus funds being delivered to the state, county and ultimately municipalities. Regular City Council Minutes February 25, 2009 Page 3 MINUTES FOR FEBRUARY 25, ~ 2009 Ms. Cash-Jackson conveyed understanding of Councilwoman Pritchett's concerns. She explained these funds are pretty transparent, and earmarked for specific projects. F-3) MISS MIAMI GARDENS SCHOLARSHIP PAGEANT WINNERS Ula Zucker, Media Coordinator for the City of Miami Gardens introduced the Miss Miami Gardens Scholarship Pageant Winners for 2009, as follows: Vanessa Charles, Miss Miami Gardens 2009 Rosie Justilien, 1St Runner-up Janey Tate, 2°d Runner-up Councilman Bratton credited the City of Miami Gardens' support staff for doing an outstanding job and making this an excellent program. (G) PUBLIC COMMENTS Marie Conyers, 18714 NW 32°d Place, Miami Gardens, Florida, appeared before the City Council to express concern with the young people in her neighborhood gambling on the street. She shared that she had called the police about this activity. However, she was not sure whether the police came out because the activity continued. The next day, the young men moved the activity to the side of a house, although they were still visible. She expressed concern with what had happened in Liberty City, where someone shot several individuals who were participating and watching a gambling activity. She said she did not want to see a situation that that happen in her neighborhood because her house is right near where this activity was taking place. She said there are also school children in the neighborhood park when they should be in class. She further asked that if the City receives any stimulus money that some of those funds be used to make street improvements to NW 27`" Avenue between 27th and 37th Avenues. Vice Mayor Watson asked that Ms. Conyers speak with a representative of the Police Department with regard to her concerns about the gambling. Janice Coakley, 19681 NW 33`d Avenue, Miami Gardens, Florida, appeared before the City Council to express her views about the engineering and architects contracts on tonight's agenda. She recommended that the City bring these services in house in order to save money. She further asked if the Power Up Program is approved at tonight's meeting when would the applications be available to the residents. Vice Mayor Watson asked that Ms. Coakley to get with Daniel Rosemond about the Power Up Program. Pat Lightfoot, 2750 NW 172°d Terrace, Miami Gardens, Florida, appeared before the City Council to reiterate statements made by President Obama during his speech the previous night. She said we are heading into some tough times and we are all in this together. She applauded the Council for the decisions it has made thus far. She said the citizens of this community do understand and will try to understand the Council will have some decisions to make that they will not like. Regular City Council Minutes February 25, 2009 Page 4 MINUTES FOR FEBRUARY 25, ~ 2009 (H) ORDINANCE(S) FOR FIRST READING H-1) AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA, AMENDING THE CITY'S PURCHASING ORDINANCE TO ADD SECTION 24 TO REGULATE THE AWARD OF DESIGN-BUILD CONTRACTS; PROVIDING FOR ADOPTION OF REPRESENTATIONS; REPEALING ALL ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS IN CONFLICT; PROVIDING A SEVERABILITY CLAUSE; PROVIDING FOR INCLUSION IN CODE; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. (SPONSORED BY THE CITY MANAGER) Deputy City Manager Farmer explained this ordinance is an amendment to the purchasing code, which would allow the City to undertake design build projects. Design-build combines into a single contract the design, construction, and in certain cases, construction engineering and inspection and acceptance requirements for a project, all in accordance with specifications and contract administration practices. These projects allow the contractor to participate in the design in an effort to reduce costs and expedite construction. Motion offered by Councilman Campbell, seconded by Council Gilbert to adopt this item on first reading. Councilwoman Pritchett asked for further explanation between the current bid process and this amendment so that the residents will have an understanding of how much time it takes with the first process as opposed to the second. Deputy Manager Farmer said this would depend on the complexity and size of the project. The steps involved in aDesign-bid-build is that an RFP would be issued to an Architect/Engineering firm to create a plan; from that plan a spec document would be created; that spec document would be used for the bid for construction of the project. The time frame for this process could take between 12 -18 months. With the design-build process, staff would be able to do process both the RFP for the construction and the design, with a simultaneous time frame, resulting in a 60-90 day time frame. Councilman Williams said the stimulus plan calls for green building projects and asked whether the City is ready to move forward with identified projects that meets this requirement. Deputy Manager Farmer said Councilman Williams question is twofold: 1) Does the City have any projects, which complies with the Green Building Standards, and the answer to that question is, "Yes". She said she was not sure how that would collate with the stimulus money. However, the City would be in a position when it comes to the park project to do some green buildings. Councilman Williams asked whether the City had an inventory of green buildings. Regular City Council Minutes February 25, 2009 Page 5 MINUTES FOR FEBRUARY 25, ~ 2009 Deputy Manager Farmer said the City has an inventory of what green practices were used as part of the Park Master Plan. There being no further discussion, the motion to adopt this ordinance on first reading passed and carried by a 6-0 vote. Councilman Bratton: Councilman Campbell: Councilman Gilbert: Councilwoman Pritchett: Councilman Williams: Vice Mayor Watson: Mayor Gibson: Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Out of Town H-2) AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA, AMENDING THE CITY'S SIGN CODE AS ADOPTED BY ORDINANCE NO. 2008-04-140; PROVIDING FOR A DEFINITION AND REGULATIONS FOR NONCOMMERCIAL COPY; PROVIDING FOR ADOPTION OF REPRESENTATIONS; REPEALING ALL ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS IN CONFLICT; PROVIDING A SEVERABILITY CLAUSE; PROVIDING FOR INCLUSION IN CODE; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. (SPONSORED BY THE CITY MANAGER) Attorney Dickens explained this item amends the City's Sign Code and allows those businesses that have commercial signage to be able to use those signage for non-commercial purposes if they so choose. Motion offered by Councilman Gilbert, seconded by Councilman Campbell to adopt this item on first reading. There being no discussion, the motion to adopt on first reading passed and carried by a 6- 0vote. Councilman Campbell: Yes Councilman Gilbert: Councilwoman Pritchett: Councilman Williams: Councilman Bratton: Vice Mayor Watson: Mayor Gibson: Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Out of Town (I) ORDINANCE(S) FOR SECOND READING/PUBLIC HEARING(S) None Regular City Council Minutes February 25, 2009 Page 6 MINUTES FOR FEBRUARY 25, ~ 2009 (J) CONSENT AGENDA RESOLUTION N0.20090-37-982 J-4) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA, AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO NEGOTIATE AND EXECUTE A NON- EXCLUSIVE CONTINUING CONTRACT WITH URS CORPORATION SOUTHERN FOR LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE, CIVIL, ENVIRONMENTAL, STRUCTURAL, ELECTRICAL, MECHANICAL AND TRAFFIC ENGINEERING AND PLANNING AND SURVEYING SERVICES; PROVIDING FOR THE ADOPTION OF REPRESENTATIONS; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. (SPONSORED BY THE CITY MANAGER) RESOLUTION N0.2009-38-983 J-5) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA, AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO NEGOTIATE AND EXECUTE A NON- EXCLUSIVE CONTINUING CONTRACT WITH BASULTO & ASSOCIATES, INC., FOR ELECTRICAL AND MECHANICAL ENGINEERING SERVICES; PROVIDING FOR THE ADOPTION OF REPRESENTATIONS; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. (SPONSORED BY THE CITY MANAGER) RESOLUTION N0.2009-39-984 J-6) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA, AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO NEGOTIATE AND EXECUTE A NON- EXCLUSIVE CONTINUING CONTRACT WITH CORZO CASTELLA CARBALLO THOMPSON SALMAN, P.A. (C3TS) FOR PLANNING SERVICES; PROVIDING FOR THE ADOPTION OF REPRESENTATIONS; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. (SPONSORED BY THE CITY MANAGER) RESOLUTION N0.2009-40-985 J-7) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA, AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO NEGOTIATE AND EXECUTE A NON- EXCLUSIVE CONTINUING CONTRACT WITH CALVIN, GIORDANO & ASSOCIATES, INC., FOR PLANNING SERVICES; PROVIDING FOR THE ADOPTION OF REPRESENTATIONS; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. (SPONSORED BY THE CITY MANAGER) Regular City Council Minutes February 25, 2009 Page 7 MINUTES FOR FEBRUARY 25, ~ 2009 RESOLUTION N0.2009-41-986 J-8) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA, AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO NEGOTIATE AND EXECUTE A NON- EXCLUSIVE CONTINUING CONTRACT WITH CHEN & ASSOCIATES CIVIL & ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEERS FOR CIVIL, ENVIRONMENTAL AND TRAFFIC ENGINEERING SERVICES; PROVIDING FOR THE ADOPTION OF REPRESENTATIONS; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. (SPONSORED BY THE CITY MANAGER) RESOLUTION N0.2009-42-987 J-9) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA, AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO NEGOTIATE AND EXECUTE A NON- EXCLUSIVE CONTINUING CONTRACT WITH THE CORRADINO GROUP, INC., FOR TRAFFIC ENGINEERING AND SURVEYING SERVICES; PROVIDING FOR THE ADOPTION OF REPRESENTATIONS; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. (SPONSORED BY THE CITY MANAGER) RESOLUTION N0.2009-43-988 J-10) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA, AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO NEGOTIATE AND EXECUTE A NON- EXCLUSIVE CONTINUING CONTRACT WITH CPZ ARCHITECTS, INC., FOR LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT, ELECTRICAL AND MECHANICAL ENGINEERING SERVICES; PROVIDING FOR THE ADOPTION OF REPRESENTATIONS; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. (SPONSORED BY THE CITY MANAGER) RESOLUTION N0.2009-44-989 J-11) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA, AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO NEGOTIATE AND EXECUTE A NON- EXCLUSIVE CONTINUING CONTRACT WITH CRAVEN THOMPSON & ASSOCIATES, INC., FOR LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT, CIVIL, ENVIRONMENTAL AND STRUCTURAL ENGINEERING AND SURVEYING SERVICES; PROVIDING FOR THE ADOPTION OF REPRESENTATIONS; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. (SPONSORED BY THE CITY MANAGER) Regular City Council Minutes February 25, 2009 Page 8 MINUTES FOR FEBRUARY 25, ~ 2009 RESOLUTION N0.2009-45-990 J-12) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA, AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO NEGOTIATE AND EXECUTE A NON- EXCLUSIVE CONTINUING CONTRACT WITH GLATTING JACKSON, FOR LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE SERVICES; PROVIDING FOR THE ADOPTION OF REPRESENTATIONS; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. (SPONSORED BY THE CITY MANAGER) RESOLUTION N0.2009-46-991 J-13) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA, AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO NEGOTIATE AND EXECUTE A NON- EXCLUSIVE CONTINUING CONTRACT WITH KIMLEY-HORN & ASSOCIATES, INC., FOR LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT, CIVIL, ENVIRONMENTAL, STRUCTURAL, TRAFFIC ENGINEERING AND SURVEYING SERVICES; PROVIDING FOR THE ADOPTION OF REPRESENTATIONS; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE (SPONSORED BY THE CITY MANAGER) RESOLUTION N0.2009-47-992 J-14) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA, AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO AMEND THE AWARD TO BLISS PRODUCTS AND SERVICES, INC. FOR A TOTAL AWARD AMOUNT OF TWO HUNDRED FORTY-TWO THOUSAND SEVENTY-TWO DOLLARS AND 43/100 ($242,072.43) FOR THE PURCHASE OF PLAYGROUND, FITNESS EQUIPMENT AND SURFACING AT THE BRENTWOOD POOL; PROVIDING FOR THE ADOPTION OF REPRESENTATIONS; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. (SPONSORED BY THE CITY MANAGER) RESOLUTION N0.2009-48-993 J-15) 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 PRODUCE AND IMPLEMENT THE CITY'S FOURTH ANNUAL YOUTH INVITATIONAL BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT COMMENCING APRIL 2009; PROVIDING FOR THE ADOPTION OF REPRESENTATIONS; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. (SPONSORED BY THE CITY MANAGER) Regular City Council Minutes February 25, 2009 Page 9 MINUTES FOR FEBRUARY 25, ~ 2009 RESOLUTION N0.2009-49-994 J-16) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA, AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER AND CITY CLERK TO EXECUTE AND ATTEST, RESPECTIVELY, AN AGREEMENT WITH HORIZON BEHAVIORAL SERVICES, LLC, TO PROVIDE AN EMPLOYEE ASSISTANCE PROGRAM TO CITY EMPLOYEES AND THEIR DEPENDENTS, IN SUBSTANTIAL FORM AS THAT AGREEMENT ATTACHED HERETO AS EXHIBIT A; PROVIDING FOR THE ADOPTION OF REPRESENTATIONS; PROVIDING FOR INSTRUCTIONS TO THE CITY CLERK; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. (SPONSORED BY THE CITY MANAGER) RESOLUTION N0.2009-50-995 J-17) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA, SUPPORTING THE CITY OF MIAMI AND THE WORLD WILDLIFE FUND'S EARTH HOUR INITIATIVE ON MARCH 28, 2009, FROM 8:30 PM TO 9:30 PM; PROVIDING FOR THE ADOPTION OF REPRESENTATIONS; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. (SPONSORED BY COUNCILMAN OLIVER G. GILBERT III) RESOLUTION N0.2009-51-996 J-18) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA, SUPPORTING MIAMI-DADE COUNTY SCHOOL BOARD'S 2009 STATE AND FEDERAL LEGISLATIVE PROGRAM; PROVIDING FOR THE ADOPTION OF REPRESENTATIONS; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.(SPONSORED BY MAYOR SHIRLEY GIBSON) Motion offered by Councilman Gilbert, seconded by Councilman Bratton to adopt the Consent Agenda. This motion passed and carried by a 6-0 voice vote. (K) RESOLUTION(S) RESOLUTION N0.2009-52-997 J-1) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA, AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER AND CITY ATTORNEY TO NEGOTIATE AND EXECUTE A GRANT AGREEMENT WITH THE CITY OF MIRAMAR FOR THE RECEIPT OF A GRANT IN THE AMOUNT OF FOUR HUNDRED FIVE THOUSAND DOLLARS ($405,112.00); AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE ANY AND ALL ATTENDANT DOCUMENTS NECESSARY IN ORDER TO Regular City Council Minutes February 25, 2009 Page 10 MINUTES FOR FEBRUARY 25, ~ 2009 RECEIVE THE GRANT; PROVIDING FOR THE ADOPTION OF REPRESENTATIONS; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. (SPONSORED BY THE CITY MANAGER) Councilwoman Pritchett said it is her understanding this legislation is to receive the grant, however in the body of the resolution describes what the funds would be used for, which is what Item J-2 does. She opined this resolution should only authorize the receipt of the grant. Attorney Dickens explained this item authorizes the receipt of the grant and what the funds would be used for. Item J-2, authorizes the purchase. She stated the two items are two separate things: J-1, authorizes the acceptance and for what purpose; and J-2 authorizes the purchase. She asked Deputy Manager Farmer to expound on this item. Deputy Manager Farmer explained, the City currently serves on the Fort Lauderdale Urban Area Security Initiative, and a main member of this initiative. There are a total of eleven entities eligible to receive this direct allocation from the federal government. The City gets the benefit of the purchase, however must make that purchase available for other regions in the event of any threats, welfare of the community or security issues. Councilman Campbell asked why is the City participating with the Fort Lauderdale Urban Area Security Initiative, when the City of Miami Gardens is located in Miami-Dade County. Motion offered by Councilman Gilbert, seconded by Councilman Bratton to adopt this item. Deputy Manager Farmer explained the Miami UASI was given a designation several years before Fort Lauderdale. When Fort Lauderdale got their designation, the City got the benefit of being within a ten mile radius. Since the City is so close to Miramar and because Dolphin Stadium as well as other factors that draws national attention, the City of Miami Gardens got the benefit of being a main entity. Vice Mayor Watson asked would there be any potential conflict or overlapping jurisdictions with regard to destination, between Calder Race Course and Dolphin Stadium. Deputy Manager Farmer shared the City, as a municipality, has the ability to apply for funding through Miami-Dade County's UASI. However, because the City has a direct line, and is a voting member with the Fort Lauderdale UASI, there is no need to apply for funding through Miami-Dade County. Miami-Dade County's also provides for a competitive bid process. Vice Mayor Watson clarified her concerns and asked if there was a security issue at either Dolphin Stadium or Calder Race Course, which jurisdiction would the City of Miami Gardens fall under, Fort Lauderdale of Miami-Dade County. Regular City Council Minutes February 25, 2009 Page 11 MINUTES FOR FEBRUARY 25, ~ 2009 Deputy Manager Farmer explained this particular item only relates to the funding aspect, and not the security aspect. For all law enforcement responses, it would be the City of Miami Gardens Police Department as well as Miami-Dade County, what other entities necessary as determined by the scope of the incident, based on the Mutual Aide agreement. Councilman Bratton commented Fort Lauderdale is a municipality, and Broward is the County in which Fort Lauderdale is located. He asked whether Fort Lauderdale controlled this funding. Deputy Manager Farmer in response to Councilman Bratton's question replied. "Yes." She explained the Federal Government does not recognize Counties. It recognizes a municipal service area, and named the USAI after a municipal service area. There being no further discussion, the motion to adopt this item passed and carried by a 6-0 voice vote. RESOLUTION N0.2009-53-998 J-2) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA, AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO ISSUE A PURCHASE ORDER TO NACS- VEHICLES FOR THE PURCHASE OF A MOBILE COMMAND VEHICLE BY UTILIZING THAT CERTAIN U.S. GENERAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION CONTRACT NO. GS-30F-00025; PROVIDING FOR THE ADOPTION OF REPRESENTATIONS; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. (SPONSORED BY THE CITY MANAGER) Councilwoman Pritchett asked how many Command Vehicles exist within that Fort Lauderdale service area. Deputy Manager Farmer said she would have to get that information. Councilwoman Pritchett asked what would constitute a priority and determining factor as to which city the command vehicle would provide assistance. Deputy Manager Farmer opined the other larger policing agencies would have their own command vehicles. However, she could not say exactly how many command vehicles those other larger policing agencies have. She further explained if there were a natural disaster that hit both Miami Gardens and Miramar, this command vehicle belongs to the City of Miami Gardens. Therefore, it would not be a situation where the City would have to give up its asset, when it was needed. She stated the idea is not to disable jurisdictions from being able to respond to the hazard. It is to be able to enhance the area. Motion offered by Councilwoman Pritchett, seconded by Councilman Bratton to adopt this item. Regular City Council Minutes February 25, 2009 Page 12 MINUTES FOR FEBRUARY 25, ~ 2009 Councilwoman Pritchett made reference to the grant amount to be received and the actual cost of the command vehicle, which equates to an additional amount of approximately $60,000.00. She stated that the cover memorandum does explain that the additional funds would be allocated from the 2007 Fiscal Year grant, and asked how much money was leftover from that 2007 Fiscal Year line item. Deputy Manager Farmer, in response to Councilwoman Pritchett's question stated, approximately $80,000.00. Councilwoman Pritchett suggested amending the resolution to state where the additional funds would be coming from. Attorney Dickens suggested entertaining a motion to amend the resolution to include all funding sources. Motion offered by Councilwoman Pritchett, seconded by Councilman Campbell to amend the resolution to include all relevant funding sources. This motion passed and carried by a 6-0 voice vote. Councilman Campbell said with all the concern about the use of this particular equipment, it is his understanding there is no mandate that if there is a situation the City has to give up its vehicle. He opined, the City of Miami Gardens has to take care of home first. He further stated there was a previous discussion about including the funding source in the body of the resolution. He opined this is something staff should be doing as part of the process. Councilwoman Pritchett asked if the City had to lend its vehicle out who would take care of the fuel cost or repairs. Deputy Manager Farmer in response to Councilwoman Pritchett's question said the fuel and repair cost would be spelled out in the Mutual Aide Agreement. Councilman Bratton questioned, if the vehicle is loaned to another agency would city staff be on loan as well or just the vehicle. Deputy Manager Farmer said city staff would be on loan as well. There being no further discussion, the motion to adopt this resolution, as amended passed and carried by a 6-0 voice vote. RESOLUTION N0.2009-54-999 J-3) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA, AUTHORIZING THE EXPENDITURE OF FUNDS RECEIVED FROM THE SALE OF Regular City Council Minutes February 25, 2009 Page 13 MINUTES FOR FEBRUARY 25, ~ 2009 THE "HUD DOLLAR HOUSE" TO FUND THE "POWER UP MIAMI GARDENS" PROGRAM; PROVIDING FOR THE ADOPTION OF REPRESENTATIONS; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. (SPONSORED BY THE CITY MANAGER) Councilwoman Pritchett asked Mr. Rosemond to provide a brief synopsis of this program and subsequent workshop. Daniel Rosemond appeared before the City Council to expound on the program. He said the funds for this program are being utilized from the sale of the HUD house, which was refurbished using as much as the Green Building standards as possible. The program provides fora $250.00 voucher from Lowe's, per household to be used to purchase emergency efficient light bulbs, window and door weather stripping. All that is required of the resident is the attendance of a two hour workshop. The workshop will focus on doing things to lower energy cost. Motion offered by Councilwoman Pritchett, seconded by Councilman Bratton to adopt this item. There being no further discussion, the motion to adopt passed and carried by a 6-0 voice vote. RESOLUTION N0.2009-55-1000 K-1) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA, URGING THE MEMBERS OF THE FLORIDA LEGISLATURE TO SUPPORT CERTAIN ISSUES DURING THE 2009 LEGISLATIVE SESSION; PROVIDING FOR DIRECTIONS TO THE CITY CLERK; PROVIDING FOR THE ADOPTION OF REPRESENTATIONS; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. (SPONSORED BY THE CITY MANAGER) Deputy Manager Farmer explained the relevant issues involved with the 2009 Legislative Session, and the issues the City of Miami Gardens is supporting. Motion offered by Councilman Gilbert, seconded by Councilman Bratton to adopt this item. Councilwoman Pritchett made reference to information provided in the packet about the fact that each Council member was contacted, and solicited for their input. Deputy Manager Farmer explained that a memorandum was issued to each Council member in November 2008, asking for items to be included in the agenda. There being no further discussion, the motion to adopt passed and carried by a 6-0 voice vote. Regular City Council Minutes February 25, 2009 Page 14 MINUTES FOR FEBRUARY 25, ~ 2009 (L) RESOLUTION(S)/PUBLIC HEARING(S) RESOLUTION N0.2009-56-1001 L-1) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA, AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER AND CITY CLERK TO EXECUTE AND ATTEST, RESPECTIVELY, THAT CERTAIN SUB-RECIPIENT AGREEMENT WITH NEIGHBORHOOD HOUSING SERVICES, INC., FOR THE PROVISION OF SERVICES RELATING TO FORECLOSURE PREVENTION ASSISTANCE, A COPY OF WHICH IS ATTACHED HERETO AS EXHIBIT A; PROVIDING FOR INSTRUCTIONS TO THE CITY CLERK PROVIDING FOR THE ADOPTION OF REPRESENTATIONS; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. (SPONSORED BY THE CITY MANAGER) Daniel Rosemond, Acting City Manager appeared before the City Council to explain this is a request to enter into an agreement with Neighborhood Housing Services, Inc., which is the Agenda the City has a Memorandum of Understanding with. With the number of foreclosures, staff determined that having a Neighborhood Housing Services, Inc., representative on site would be apro-active approach on the part of the City to bring those services closer to the residents. Vice Mayor Watson opened the floor for this public hearing. Patricia Lightfoot 2750 NW 172°d Terrace, Miami Gardens, Florida, appeared before the City Council to convey support of this program. After there were no other interested parties to speak on this item, the public hearing was closed. Motion offered by Councilman Gilbert, seconded by Councilman Campbell to adopt this item. Councilman Campbell conveyed support of this program. He opined the program gives the City more control and/or oversight. He said residents can feel more comfortable with having this program at the City. Councilman Williams shared personal knowledge that Neighborhood Housing Services, Inc., is HUD Certified and a reputable company. Councilwoman Pritchett commented the $50,000.00 amount will be coming from a CDBG funding, which is separate from the General Revenue Fund. Mr. Rosemond replied, yes that is a separate fund. Regular City Council Minutes February 25, 2009 Page 15 MINUTES FOR FEBRUARY 25, ~ 2009 Councilwoman Pritchett asked whether Neighborhood Housing Services, Inc., would get compensated for a success rate. Mr. Rosemond said Neighborhood Housing Services, Inc., would get compensated through the Neighborhood Network as part of their direct contact with that organization. The City is basically paying to have the staff person located at City Hall, and pay for the resources to have the remote site here at Miami Gardens, which includes the staff person, equipment, and correspondence relative to the outreach. One of the benefits of having this organization on site is that staff will be able to track their performance. Vice Mayor Watson opined transparency is important with anything the City is involved in. She further stated foreclosure is personal matter for many and as such individuals do not want to discuss this matter opening at a workshop or public forum. She said the personalized service the City can offer to individuals is invaluable. Councilwoman Pritchett asked how the word will be disseminated into the community. Mr. Rosemond said one of the challenges is to determine how much or how little because the City did not want to set itself up for expectations it will not be able to meet. The City will certainly want to provide this information on the City's website and any brochures that are put together. There being no further discussion the motion to adopt passed and carried by a 6-0 voice vote. (M) REPORTS OF CITY MANAGER/CITY ATTORNEY/CITY CLERK M-1) City Manager's Monthly Report Deputy Manager Farmer reminded everyone about the Strategic Planning Session, scheduled for Friday, February 27t". She provided each Council member with an agenda for the event. Daniel Rosemond, Acting City Manager reappeared before the City Council to announce that applications were available for anyone interested in attending the Power Up Workshop. Clerk Taylor reported the Charter Revision Commission met on February 23rd. At that meeting a chair and vice chair were selected. Furthermore, the "Commission" has elected to hold its meetings on the fourth Monday of each month, with the next meeting scheduled for Monday, March 23, 2009, at 6:00 p.m. Councilwoman Pritchett asked the City Clerk to provide her with a listing of the Charter Revision Commission meeting dates. (N) REPORTS OF MAYOR AND COUNCIL MEMBERS Regular City Council Minutes February 25, 2009 Page 16 MINUTES FOR FEBRUARY 25, ~ 2009 Councilman Gilbert thanked the Council for its support in adopting the World Wildlife Fund's Earth Hour initiative scheduled for March 28, 2009, at 8:30 p.m. Councilwoman Pritchett asked Vice Mayor Watson to expound on the award event she was recently honored at. Vice Mayor Watson said the well-attended event was held at the Women's Park and provided an opportunity for networking with other groups. This year's event centered around women who did not have sufficient clothes for job interviews. Attendees were asked to bring a purse as well as other accessories for those women needing a complete wardrobe for their interviews. The actual awards ceremony will be held on March 4t", which also happens to be a Zoning meeting for the City of Miami Gardens. She announced that she would not be in attendance for that meeting due to this event. Motion offered by Councilwoman Pritchett, seconded by Councilman Bratton to excuse Vice Mayor Watson's absence at the March 4th Zoning Meeting. This motion passed by a 6-0 voice vote. Councilman Williams praised President Obama on the speech he gave before Congress. He said President Obama's foreclosure initiative will be a blessing for the folks of Miami Gardens. Councilman Campbell concurred with Councilman Williams. He said not only is the other side not supporting President Obama's initiative, they are also not offering anything. He conveyed his support of President Obama and opined he is doing an excellent job. Vice Mayor Watson stated this Council needs to show its support by contacting its representatives in Washington. She said it is important that the Council's voice be heard. (O) WRITTEN REQUESTS, PETITIONS & OTHER WRITTEN . COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE PUBLIC None (P) ADJOURNMENT There being no further business to come before this Body and upon a motion being duly made by Councilman Bratton, the meeting adjourned at 9:00 p.m,-~ Attest: yor ~~. Ronetta Taylor, M ,City Clerk Regular City Council Minutes February 25, 2009 Page 17