Public Meetings - Miami, Florida

The Miami City Commission convened on June 11, 2026, at 1:15 PM. The meeting included proclamations recognizing the Corporate Run and Carlos Magoya, public comments on several agenda items, discussion and votes on public hearings, a major debate on the Virginia Key marina lease referendum, and approval of routine consent items and board appointments. Proclamations & Recognitions - Corporate Run – The commission recognized the annual Corporate Run, started in 1985, as South Florida's largest office party promoting health and fitness. Speakers noted the event brings the community together and encourages physical activity. - Carlos Magoya – Recognized for his decades of service as a former city manager (pro bono), CEO of Jackson Health System (transforming it into a world-class institution), and his current work on a healthcare high school. Commissioners praised his leadership during COVID and his commitment to affordable housing on Jackson's land. Consent Calendar - Pocket Item – Approved unanimously: a special event permit waiver for the Allapatta Soccer Community Field Activation (June 11–19, 2026) on city-owned property. - Minutes – Approved minutes from April 9 and April 23, 2026. - CA1, CA2, CA3 – Approved unanimously with no discussion. - PH1, PH3, PH4 (as amended), PH5 – Approved unanimously (PH2 was pulled for discussion). - RE6, RE7 – Approved unanimously (RE6 required four-fifths vote). - SR1, SR2 (amended), SR3 (amended) – Second reading ordinances approved unanimously. - Board Appointments – Numerous appointments and reappointments approved unanimously, including Accessibility Advisory Board, Civil Service Board, LGBTQ Advisory Board, and others. BC3 was withdrawn. Public Comments & Testimony - PH4 (Allapatta Soccer Field) – Multiple speakers (Rebecca Howriggy, Stephanie Olguin, Mindy Martinez, Lulian Lobo, Andrea Martinez, Maria Heles Moreno, Brenda Barancore, Angelica Torrentes) urged approval, stating the community has waited two years for the project to move forward. They emphasized the need to repurpose an abandoned property for youth sports and community development, and expressed frustration with repeated delays. - RE3/RE4 (Virginia Key Marina Lease) – Two opposing sides testified: - Virginia Key LLC (Robert Christoph Jr., Al Dotson) – Argued the court ordered a referendum, the lease terms are fair and market-rate (with appraisals attached), and any further delay would violate the court order. They requested placement on the November 2026 ballot. - Rickenbacker Marina (Abad Melwani, Maria Faradinoff) – Asked for deferral, citing insufficient notice of appraisals, material changes to the lease (over 550 edits), outdated financials (10-year-old deal), and the need for a transparent, separate special election rather than a crowded general election. - PH2 (Prescott Estates Plat) – A resident asked the commission to confirm that the final plat preserves a public access easement over the private road, consistent with 2022 representations. - Tree Removal Appeal – A speaker requested approval of an appeal to save a state-threatened mahogany tree at 501 NE 55th Terrace, arguing the notice sign was posted on the wrong tree. - Miscellaneous – One resident complained about FDOT cleaning a drainage outfall improperly, releasing styrofoam into the bay. Another apologized for confiscating a phone during a previous meeting. A civil service board member spoke in support of his reappointment. Discussion Items - PH2 – Prescott Estates Final Plat – Commissioner Pardo pulled the item. Staff confirmed the plat includes a one-way private road with a perpetual public ingress/egress easement but could not guarantee no future barriers. Commissioner Pardo moved to indefinitely defer to add specific language clarifying public access. The item was deferred indefinitely. - PZ Items – PZ1, PZ2, PZ3 were withdrawn per the applicant's request. PZ4 (a tree removal appeal) was indefinitely deferred by Commissioner Pardo to allow another arborist review and further discussion. - RE3/RE4 – Virginia Key Marina Lease Referendum – Extensive debate: - The city attorney advised that a 2023 court order (affirmed on appeal in December 2025) mandates awarding the lease to Virginia Key LLC and placing it on a referendum ballot. He warned that any material deviation could risk contempt. - Commissioner Gabella expressed concern that the 10-year-old deal does not reflect current market value, but accepted the legal necessity to comply with the court order. - Commissioner Rosado questioned the risk of personal liability; staff clarified the order is ministerial. - Mayor Haggins suggested adding ballot language clarifying the age of the deal. - After legal clarification that the ballot language had been agreed with the prevailing party and is ministerial, the commission voted. - RE4 (awarding the lease subject to referendum) passed unanimously. - RE3 (referendum resolution placing the question on the November 3, 2026 general election ballot) passed unanimously with minor amendments. Key Outcomes - PH4 (Allapatta Soccer) – Approved as part of consent calendar (unanimous) amid public support. - PH2 (Prescott Estates) – Indefinitely deferred to clarify public access language. - RE3 & RE4 (Virginia Key Marina) – Approved unanimously: lease awarded to Virginia Key LLC subject to voter approval. The referendum will appear on the November 3, 2026 general election ballot. The city manager is authorized to execute the lease substantially in the attached form. - PZ4 (Tree Appeal) – Indefinitely deferred. - All board appointments – Approved as listed. - Second reading ordinances – Approved (public urination/defecation amendments, Little Havana parking trust fund, naming of skating rink at Hadley Park).

The Miami Code Enforcement Board convened on June 10, 2026, to hear a series of property code violation cases. The board addressed violations including work without permits, illegal units, inoperable vehicles, overgrown lots, failure to maintain seawalls, and excessive noise. Most property owners pleaded guilty and were granted compliance periods of 30 to 120 days, with daily fines for non-compliance. A special appearance involved a request for a partial release of lien, which the board affirmed after clarifying title issues. Public Comments & Testimony - Several property owners testified, explaining they needed time to bring properties into compliance, often due to contractor issues or lack of knowledge about permits. - In the noise case, a resident from the neighboring Mr. C Residences spoke out, claiming the property manager misrepresented the condition of the chillers. The board limited discussion to the noise violation only and noted that the violation had been resolved. Discussion Items - Special Appearance – Partial Release of Lien (Case CE 2008 001440, 2512 NW 12th Ave): The board revisited a case from the previous week. The city attorney raised concerns about a quitclaim deed transferring the property to an LLC and the absence of the title attorney. The property owner, Elda Perez, explained she transferred the property to an LLC solely to obtain a loan to pay back taxes. The board found no harm to the city or the violating property and affirmed its prior motion to grant the partial release. - Seawall Failure (1160 NW North River Drive): The property manager stated they were in the process of obtaining permits from multiple agencies, including the Army Corps of Engineers. The board granted 120 days for compliance, noting the likely need for extensions due to federal permitting delays. - Noise Violation (2665 S. Bayshore Dr., Unit M103): The property was cited for excessive mechanical noise (62 dBA, exceeding the 60 dBA limit for multifamily between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m.). The property manager reported temporary plywood walls had brought the noise into compliance, with permanent concrete walls underway. The board found the property guilty but imposed no fines since compliance was achieved, allowing for higher fines if future violations occur. - Absentia Cases: Several properties were heard in absentia, with inspectors presenting evidence of violations such as unpermitted work, junk storage, and vacant lot issues. The board routinely found the properties guilty and set compliance deadlines (3 to 120 days) with daily fines. Key Outcomes - Guilty findings with compliance periods and daily fines: - Most residential cases: 120 days to comply, $150 per day thereafter. - Multifamily cases: 120 days, $250 per day. - One case (vacant lot with stored vehicles) received $500 per day. - Some cases (e.g., grass cutting, BTR compliance) received 30 days, $150 per day. - Partial release of lien (Special Appearance): The board affirmed the previously granted partial release, directing the city to execute the release. - Adjudication of noise violation: The board found the property guilty but imposed no fine, preserving the ability to impose up to $15,000 per day for repeat violations. - Extensions: All property owners were advised to request extensions of time before deadlines expire to avoid accruing fines. The meeting adjourned after all cases were heard.

The Civil Service Board met on June 9, 2026, to consider personnel matters including probation extensions, military leaves, and appeal hearings. Several items were tabled or continued pending further proceedings. Consent Calendar - Approval of previous meeting minutes (motion by Board Member Jimenez, second by Soliman, all in favor). - Probation extensions for police officers: Brian Aguilar (3 months beyond June 12, 2026), Anthony Shridiron (6 months beyond June 12, 2026), Chandrika Hawkins (6 months beyond May 8, 2026), and firefighter Julio Discaino (6 months beyond August 4, 2026) all approved unanimously. Hawkins' extension was due to light duty from July 31 to November 7, 2024, and an extension of field training. - Military leaves of absence: Andrés Olguin (police officer, 400 days effective August 20, 2026); Jessica Kennedy (police officer, May 4–July 24, 2026); Westleen Lewis (police lieutenant, June 15–August 7, 2026) – all approved unanimously. - Disciplinary matters (D1–D5) noted for board members. Public Comments & Testimony - Alfonso Davila, former heavy equipment mechanic helper, presented his request for an investigation hearing under Civil Service Rule 16.1 against Mardelli Spuig, fleet management representative, alleging abuse of power in processing his job abandonment. He stated the city could not produce any written delegation authorizing Spuig's involvement. The city objected, arguing Spuig was a payroll liaison with no decision-making authority and that the same facts would be heard at Davila's termination appeal on June 23, 2026. The board voted to table the investigation request until after the June 23 hearing. Discussion Items - Status update on the appeal hearing of Sergeant Tashara Eileen (unsatisfactory evaluation ending September 19, 2023): The city reported that a hearing at Miami-Dade is scheduled for August 11, 2026, and the board hearing will be set for September. No further action taken. - Hearings pending list as of June 9, 2026 was reviewed; the next board meeting on June 23, 2026 has one hearing scheduled. Key Outcomes - All probation extensions and military leaves approved unanimously. - Alfonso Davila's Rule 16 investigation request was tabled (motion by Board Member Cabrera, second by Soliman, all in favor) pending the outcome of his termination appeal hearing on June 23, 2026. - Leslinda Bremer's appeal of a 20-hour suspension (effective September 13, 2024) was continued pending a settlement; the suspension will be reduced to a straight reprimand. - Leslinda Bremer's appeal of a 10-hour suspension (effective April 4, 2026) was continued jointly for settlement discussions. - Marquise Williams' appeal of a 10-hour suspension (effective June 17, 2023) was continued at the city's request; no objection from Williams' representative. - Meeting adjourned; next meeting scheduled for June 23, 2026.

The Art in Public Places Board of the City of Miami held a meeting on June 8, 2026, at 11:30 AM. Due to the absence of a quorum, the board was unable to vote on pending items such as expenditures and artist shortlists. The meeting focused on updates to the citywide public art master plan, the MFP site-specific master plan, scheduling of a special meeting, and a planned training day for board members. Discussion Items - Public Art Master Plan (Citywide): Staff reported that a kickoff meeting had been held for the citywide public art master plan. The plan is being developed with DPZ and Barbara Goldstein's company from California. The board will have one member on the steering committee, and there will be community outreach meetings in each district. The board will need to approve the final master plan and program guidelines. - MFP Master Plan (Site-Specific): Staff noted ongoing engagement with the consultant for the MFP master plan, though no steering committee had been formed yet. The contract was signed in March 2026, with an eight-month timeline, and the bulk of work is expected to be completed over the summer. Community meetings will be scheduled. - Scheduling & Special Meeting: Board members discussed the need to hold a special meeting to approve time-sensitive items, as the July regular meeting conflicts with member availability. Staff agreed to explore a special meeting toward the end of June 2026. Key Outcomes - No Votes Taken: The board lacked a quorum and could not vote on expenditures, artist shortlists, or other agenda items that required approval. - Special Meeting Requested: The board will attempt to schedule a special meeting in late June 2026 to address pending items and avoid a delay until September. - Training Day Announced: Staff announced a training day for boards and committees on August 19, 2026, at Jose Martí Park, including ethics training, public art code refresher, and other sessions. Attendance is not mandatory. Adjournment The meeting adjourned with plans to reconvene either at a special meeting in late June or at the next regular meeting.

The Code Enforcement Board of Miami, Florida, convened on June 4, 2026, at 10:00 AM to hear cases involving property violations. The board processed a series of code compliance cases, most resulting in guilty pleas, and granted one request for a partial release of a lien. All votes were unanimous. Public Comments & Testimony - Tenants at 3496 NW 7th Street: A tenant representative requested that a violation for an unpermitted concrete slab be reassigned to a different address within the same folio. The board explained that the entire property shares one folio number, so the violation applies to all addresses on the lot. The case was heard in absentia and a finding of guilt was entered. - Elda Perez and her realtor: Ms. Perez appeared to request a partial release of a code lien affecting a property she is selling in Miami-Dade County. The lien originated from a violation at 2512 NW 12th Avenue, owned by her ex-husband. The city attorney clarified the legal nature of the lien, and the board voted to grant a partial release limited to Ms. Perez and her Doral property, provided it does not impair the city's position. Discussion Items - Preliminary matters: The board chair explained fine structures: up to $250/day for residential, $1,000/day for commercial first-time violators; up to $15,000 for irreparable violations. The board also noted that extensions of time must be requested before the 30-day deadline. - Page 79 – 729 NW 55 Terrace: Property owner Ray Nasir pleaded guilty to tree removal without a permit. Inspector Eric Sinosa recommended 120 days for permit completion. The board found guilt, ordered 120 days compliance, with a $150/day per diem thereafter. - Page 136 – 2635 SW 8th Street: Owner representative Nicholas Rodriguez pleaded guilty to graffiti and unsecured front of a commercial building. Inspector Castillo recommended 60 days. Board found guilt, 60 days compliance, $250/day per diem. - Page 37 – 3271 NW 18th Street: Owner pleaded guilty to having an inoperable vehicle on the property. Inspector Castillo recommended 30 days. Board found guilt, 30 days, $150/day per diem. - Page 130 – 1599 W Flagler Street: Initially pleaded not guilty, but after inspector testimony about outstanding violations (no CU, BTR, permit for car wash canopies and flower stand), the respondent changed to guilty. Board found guilt, 120 days compliance, $250/day per diem. - Page 111 – 3671 SW 13th Street: Owner pleaded guilty to tree cutting without permit. Inspector recommended 120 days for permit process. Board found guilt, 120 days, $150/day per diem. - Page 29 – 1520 NW 31st Avenue: Owner Nicholas Diaz pleaded guilty to minor storage violation. Inspector Castillo recommended 30 days. Board found guilt, 30 days, $150/day per diem. - Page 82 – 811 NW 30th Place: Attorney Patrick Little pleaded guilty on behalf of property owner who inherited the property with unpermitted work. Inspector recommended 30 days to start permitting. Board found guilt, 30 days, $150/day per diem. - Page 45 – 8600 NE 10th Court: Attorney Michael Burrell pleaded guilty for elderly owner with standing water in pool and window issues. Inspector Bailey recommended 120 days due to owner's age. Board found guilt, 120 days, $150/day per diem. - Page 34 – 432 NW 32nd Court: Owner pleaded guilty to unpermitted remodeling. Inspector Martinez recommended 120 days for permitting phase. Board found guilt, 120 days, $150/day per diem. - Add-on – 2512 NW 12th Avenue: Elda Perez requested a partial release of a lien. After discussion, the board voted to grant a partial release as to Ms. Perez and the Doral property, leaving the lien intact against the original violator and the Miami property. - Absentia cases: The board heard 10 cases in absentia, all resulting in findings of guilt with compliance periods of 3 to 30 days and daily fines of $150 or $250. Key Outcomes - Votes: All motions were passed unanimously (no opposed votes recorded). - Fines and compliance periods: - Residential cases: typically $150/day per diem after 30–120 days. - Commercial cases: $250/day per diem after 30–120 days. - Absentia cases: 3 days compliance (except two with 30 days), fines of $150 or $250/day. - Partial release granted: The board approved a partial release of the code lien for Elda Perez and her Doral property (10628 NW 54th Street), with the city attorney drafting the document for recording. - Extension reminders: The board repeatedly advised owners to request extensions before the 30-day deadline if additional time is needed to avoid fines.

The Miami Planning, Zoning and Appeals Board (PZAB) met on June 3, 2026, to consider three major items: a proposed alley vacation with conditions, code amendments to incentivize development along greenways, and the creation of a Little Havana Parking Improvement Trust Fund. All items passed or were deferred with modifications. Consent Calendar - Unanimously approved absence waivers for Chair Adam Gerstein and Board Member Lynette Cardolch. - Unanimously approved minutes from the May 6, 2026 meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - Alley Vacation (Item 1): Ulysses Kemp (President, Vista Heights Neighborhood Association) expressed support for keeping the alley open but concern about a 164-foot tunnel; requested more time for community input. Elvis Cruz (631 NE 57th St) opposed, arguing it sets a bad precedent. Lorena Ramos (Buena Vista Stakeholders) was agreeable to the applicant's current plan. - Greenway Amendments (Items 2&3): Several speakers supported the amendments: Ralph Rosato (Commissioner, District 4) highlighted the Miami Loop; Katio Santos (Transit Alliance Miami) emphasized public-private investment; Peter Rubino (Friends of Ludlam Trail) noted safety benefits; Zoheb (resident) praised green space. Mel Meinhart (Friends of Commodore Trail) and Jeff Taylor supported adding language to protect NCDs and T3 zones. Robert Crapsy (Center Grove resident) cautioned against bonus heights. Victor Dover (urban designer) cited health benefits of proximity to trails. Elvis Cruz opposed further density increases. Discussion Items - Item 1 – Alley Vacation (File ID 18919): Applicant Iris Iscara (Greenberg Traurig) presented an updated plan that preserves the alley’s alignment with a 25-foot vertical easement and conditions (lighting, repaving). Board members questioned the tunnel length (up to 164 feet) and safety. After community concerns, the applicant deferred to June 17, 2026. The board approved the deferral unanimously. - Items 2&3 – Greenway Amendments (File ID 18679 and companion): Staff Planner Samantha Maldonado proposed code updates to define greenways, create a public benefits program for bonus height (T5 and T6 within 0.5 miles of a greenway), and require adjacent frontage construction. The Miami River Commission recommended three conditions. Board discussion focused on protecting NCDs, avoiding impacts on T3 zones, and ensuring cash contributions (initially $200/sq ft) are prioritized for the generating greenway. The board approved both items 8-0. - Item 4 – Little Havana Parking Trust Fund (File ID 1933): Savannah Center Assistant Director presented the fund allowing fee-in-lieu for parking (currently $27,000 per space). Board members raised concerns about parking adequacy and affordability. Amendments were proposed and accepted: minimum 30% of parking spaces must be provided on-site, at least 25% of fund revenues must be used for parking improvements, and the fee increased to $35,000 per space ($17,500 for half-space). The board approved with amendments 8-0. Key Outcomes - Alley vacation deferred to June 17, 2026 for further community input. - Greenway code amendments approved 8-0; staff to update business impact statement and consider Miami River Commission recommendations. - Little Havana Parking Trust Fund approved 8-0 with amendments: 30% minimum on-site parking, 25% fund allocation to parking, and increased fee of $35,000 per space.

The Miami Historic and Environmental Preservation Board (HEPB) held its regular meeting on June 2, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. (agenda start time was 3 p.m. but adjusted to 5:30 p.m. for special meetings discussion). The board addressed routine business, including approval of absence waivers and minutes, and heard seven public hearing items (HEP items 1–8, items 9–10 removed). Key decisions included approvals with conditions, a denial, and deferrals. Staff provided updates on intended decision appeals, historic preservation grants, and a proposal for additional special meetings for tree appeals, which was agreed for July 2026. Consent Calendar - Absence Waivers: Approved for members Najib Campbell and Julie O'Dell (motion carried). - Minutes: May 2026 meeting minutes approved (motion carried). - Chair Participation via Zoom: Motion to allow Chair William Hopper to participate via Zoom passed unanimously. - Removal of Agenda Items 9 and 10: These items (appeals of a tree removal permit) were removed because the applicant withdrew the tree permit, rendering the appeals moot. Motion carried. Public Comments & Testimony - Items 9 and 10 Removal: A member of the public (self-identified as an appellant) expressed frustration that the removal of items 9 and 10 prevented her from presenting findings about the tree permit. The board declined to hear testimony due to mootness, advising her to submit findings in writing. She also requested a refund of appeal fees; the city attorney stated refunds are not provided per code. - Item 2 (Little Havana House): No public testimony. - Item 3 (Palm Grove Roof): No public testimony. - Item 4 (Morningside Addition): No public testimony. - Item 6 (After-the-Fact Windows): No public testimony. - Item 7 (Palm Grove New Construction): Shane Graver, representing the Bayside Residence Association, spoke in favor of the project, noting the applicant had been responsive and the design had improved. He recommended approval with conditions. - Item 8 (Charles Avenue): Multiple residents testified. Anthony Vince Aguera (3325 Charles Avenue) objected to lack of public noticing for the waiver hearing, stated the proposed structure (3,500 sq ft) is more than double the average house size on Charles Avenue, and argued it would harm the historic character and accelerate gentrification. Another resident, Maria Gonzalez (436 NE 77th St), echoed concerns about mega-mansions harming historic areas. Discussion Items - Staff Updates: Mr. Colmas reported on progress with historic preservation grants (10 recipients chosen, site visits scheduled), the hiring process for a principal planner, and a public meeting about Palm Grove design guidelines. - Intended Decision Appeals (Tree Appeals): Staff noted a significant uptick in appeals (14 in May, 6 timely and complete). To manage workload, the board agreed to hold a special meeting on July 21, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. specifically for intended decision appeals and environmental resources. The proposal for recurring monthly special meetings (third Tuesday) was deferred pending the July trial. Board members expressed concerns about quorum, meeting duration, and workload. - Attendance Issues: A board member noted that member Elvis Fuentes had missed meetings since November. Staff clarified that removal is at the discretion of the appointing commissioner, not the board. - Upcoming Topics: The board discussed the need for training on the Live Local Act (state legislation affecting historic districts), FEMA flood zone impacts on historic properties, and tree protection legislation. A request was made for the city attorney to present on these issues. - Code Compliance: Members called for dedicated code enforcement officers for historic districts and better enforcement of illegal alterations. Staff indicated conversations have begun but no resolution yet. HEP Item 1 – New Construction in Bayside Historic District (765 NE 70th St) - Proposal: Special certificate of appropriateness for a new single-family home on a vacant lot. - Staff Recommendation: Denial, citing insufficient response to prior board feedback (scale, massing, roof design, materials). - Applicant: Architect Gabriel Chamaria presented updated designs, but the board felt the changes were incomplete. The neighborhood association spoke in favor but recommended approval with conditions. - Board Discussion: Members provided extensive design feedback (horizontal banding, roof pitch, materiality, landscape plan). The applicant requested approval with conditions to work with staff. - Outcome: Motion to defer to September 1, 2026, passed 7-0. The board requested a complete set of plans incorporating feedback. HEP Item 2 – Preliminary Evaluation for Rescission of Designation (Little Havana House, 1016 SW 13th Ct) - Proposal: Rescission of historic designation for a fire-damaged house, with a new duplex design incorporating elements of the original. - Staff Recommendation: Approval with conditions, requiring a covenant that the duplex be built as presented. - Applicant: Attorney Bob De La Fuente and owner Hasan Kimyavi presented a redesigned duplex developed with staff. - Board Discussion: Members praised the collaborative process but offered architectural refinements (knee walls, shutter proportions, siding, landscape preservation). The board acknowledged the owner's innocent purchase and two-year delay. - Outcome: Motion to approve preliminary rescission with conditions (including staff conditions and design feedback) passed 7-0. The final rescission hearing will occur when the applicant returns with a complete set of plans. HEP Item 3 – Asphalt Shingle Roof in Palm Grove Historic District (447 NE 75th St) - Proposal: Install asphalt shingle roof on a non-contributing structure, citing financial hardship and structural inability to support clay tiles. - Staff Recommendation: Denial, as the material is not historically appropriate. - Applicant: Roofer Merlin Santos and the owner (elderly, fixed income) argued hardship; owner was present with an engineer's letter stating the roof cannot support concrete tile. - Board Discussion: Members recognized the owner's long tenure (since 1988), financial constraints, and leaking roof. A vote was taken on hardship grounds. - Outcome: Motion to approve on the basis of hardship (financial and 40-year residency) passed 6-1 (Powers dissenting). The decision is final unless appealed within 15 days. HEP Item 4 – Partial Demolition and Additions in Morningside (5925 NE 6th Ct) - Proposal: Side and rear additions to a contributing structure. - Staff Recommendation: Approval with conditions, including restudy of west elevation fenestration. - Applicant: Architect Robert John (representing owner Manuel Berzosa) requested clarification on the west elevation condition, explaining window placement was constrained by interior layout (bathrooms/closets). - Board Discussion: Members found the design thoughtful and sympathetic. They modified the condition to remove the fenestration requirement, accepting the applicant's explanation. - Outcome: Motion to approve with all staff conditions except the west elevation fenestration condition passed 7-0. HEP Item 6 – After-the-Fact Window/Door Replacement in Palm Grove (6400 NE 4th Ct) - Proposal: Legalize replacement of windows and doors on a non-contributing structure. - Staff Recommendation: Approval with standard conditions (clear glass, etc.). - Applicant: Project architect Ojanis Gomez stated replacements were direct for impact resistance and to improve the building. - Board Discussion: One member (Powers) expressed concern about allowing after-the-fact work, but others noted the building is non-contributing and the changes were consistent with code. - Outcome: Motion to approve with staff conditions passed 6-1 (Powers dissenting). HEP Item 7 – New Construction in Palm Grove (5969 NE 4th Ct) - Proposal: One-story home with ADU/garage on a vacant lot. - Staff Recommendation: Approval with conditions, including restudy of front fenestration. - Applicant: Owner Dolores Gone Salves Irish. - Board Discussion: The Palm Grove Neighborhood Association spoke in favor, noting the design respects the original mission-style home. Members praised the quality of the design and the applicant's collaboration. - Outcome: Motion to approve with all staff conditions passed 7-0. HEP Item 8 – New Construction on Charles Avenue (3448 Charles Ave) – Recommendation to Planning Director - Proposal: New single-family home in the Village West Island District/Charles Avenue NCD 2. The design should reflect Caribbean/Bahamian vernacular. - Staff Recommendation: Multiple conditions to improve historical authenticity (functional shutters, roof lines, removal of planter, etc.). - Applicant: Architect Gabriel Chamaria represented the owner (family). - Public Testimony: Residents strongly opposed, citing lack of notice (no public hearing notification), excessive scale (3,500 sq ft vs. 1,400 avg), and failure to meet NCD guidelines. The owner's representative argued the lot is small and the family needs space. - Board Discussion: Extensive critique: the design was seen as a contemporary house with Bahamian ornamentation rather than an authentic replication. Members recommended a complete redesign with porches, functional shutters, proper fenestration, and more faithful proportions. The applicant was offered a deferral to September 1, 2026, to incorporate feedback. - Outcome: Deferred to September 1, 2026 (motion passed 6-0; member Hugh Ryan had left). The board emphasized that if the design does not improve, they may recommend denial. Key Outcomes & Next Steps - Special Meeting for July 21, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. to handle tree appeals and environmental items; future monthly meetings to be evaluated. - Historic Preservation Grants: 10 recipients selected; site visits scheduled for summer 2026. - Deferrals: Items 1 (Bayside) and 8 (Charles Avenue) deferred to September 1, 2026. Item 2 (Little Havana) will return for final rescission once plans are updated. - Appeals: The board’s decisions are final unless appealed to the hearing board’s office within 15 days (30 days for rescission items). - Future Training: The board will schedule training on the Live Local Act, FEMA flood regulations, and tree protection legislation. A field trip to historic sites (e.g., Marine Stadium, courthouse) is planned for August 2026.

Overview On June 1, 2026, the City of Miami Code Enforcement Special Magistrate, Richard Genler, presided over a hearing to address various code violations. The proceedings included extensions of time for property owners to come into compliance, hearings for respondents contesting violations, and default judgments for absent respondents. The session began with five extension-of-time requests, all of which were granted for 120 days, and then moved to contested hearings, followed by absentia cases. A total of approximately 19 cases were addressed. Extensions of Time (All Granted) 111 NW 26th St, Case 0009426: Attorney Mickey Morero represented the operator. The city recommended and the magistrate granted a 120-day extension because the respondent is in the permit stage and awaiting inspections. 101 NW 26th St, Case 0009425: Attorney Mickey Morero represented the operator for a second property on the same site. A 120-day extension was granted. 620 SW 10th Ave, Case 00108461: Owner Wendy Marmol appeared. A 120-day extension was granted as the respondent is in the correction stage of the permit. 152 NW 34th St, Case 00107641: Marisol Garcia appeared on behalf of her mother, Marcelina Garcia, who is not a native English speaker. The city recommended and the magistrate granted a 120-day extension. 3210 NW 22nd Ave, Case 00091273: Owner Jeanette Marslin appeared. A 120-day extension was granted; the property is in the permit phase. 2495 SW 21st Terrace, Case 00108328: Owner Patricia Welbert appeared. A 120-day extension was granted. Contested Case: 1130 NW 48th St, Case 0011291 Violation: Work without a permit (installation of a metal fence). Respondent's Position: Owner Shirley Delauder, represented by her daughter Ruby King, initially contested the violation, stating the contractor told her no permit was needed because it was replacing a wooden gate. She also noted she is a widow on a fixed income. City's Position: Inspector Hedgeburg testified that replacing a fence requires a permit and that no permit was obtained. The city recommended 120 days to secure an after-the-fact permit, with a $150/day fine if not completed. Outcome: The magistrate found the violation existed, reasoning that a permit is required by law for a fence replacement. The magistrate ordered the violation be corrected within 120 days; if not, fines of $150 per day will accrue. Admitted Violations (No Contest) 1854 NW 21st St, Case 0078802: Owner Vinamrata Mehta admitted to unpermitted interior renovations (drywall, mechanical) in an office space. The city recommended 120 days and payment of permit fees. The magistrate ordered compliance within 120 days, with $250/day fines thereafter. 1270 NW 51st St, Case 0011371: Owner Leslie Espinoza initially contested but then admitted to a back structure built without a permit and encroaching on setbacks. The inspector noted the illegal unit charge was not pursued due to lack of evidence of occupancy. The magistrate ordered compliance within 120 days, with $150/day fines thereafter. 7724 NE 1st Ave, Case 00135029: Attorney Alex Uribe represented the owners. He admitted to unpermitted driveway work and mailboxes, but disputed claims of an illegal unit. The magistrate found the driveway and mailbox violations existed and ordered compliance within 120 days, with $150/day fines. The city's request to order an interior inspection was denied without prejudice due to lack of notice in the original violation. 7101 N Miami Ave, Case 00146272: Justin Tarani (with power of attorney) admitted to needing certificates of use (CU) and business tax receipts (BTR) for businesses operating on the property. The magistrate ordered compliance within 120 days, with $150/day fines. 93 NE 65th St, Case 00158043: Owner Paul Bilton contested the initial claim of lacking a contract for waste service, but admitted to the actual violation of overflowing dumpsters. The inspector testified the property had a history of overflowing trash. The magistrate found the violation existed but noted it was resolved as of a week and a half prior. No additional time or fines were ordered, but the magistrate warned that a repeat violation could result in higher fines. 708 NE 68th St, Case 00093268: Owner Jacqueline Berther admitted the need to finalize an after-the-fact permit for tree removal, but noted the city had allowed deferral until construction is complete. The magistrate ordered compliance within 180 days, with $150/day fines, after the respondent indicated 120 days would be insufficient. 161 NW 40th St, Case 00065846: Owner Urek Prado Vargas initially pleaded not guilty, but later admitted to unpermitted work (mechanical, electrical, sub-flooring, encroachment) while stating the property is slated for demolition. The magistrate found the violation existed and, over the city's 60-day recommendation, granted 90 days to comply, with $250/day fines. The magistrate emphasized the respondent must show progress on obtaining a demolition permit. 329 NE 56th St, Case 00041293: Owner Leandro Bossi admitted needing to secure an after-the-fact permit for tree removal. The magistrate ordered compliance within 180 days, with $250/day fines, similar to a previous case. 2215 NW 14th St, Case 00152634: Attorney Guillermo Alvarez, also the operator, did not contest the violation (failure to have CU and BTR for a marina). He requested only 60 days to apply pressure on the county for sign-off, instead of the city's recommendation of 90 days. The magistrate granted 60 days, with $250/day fines. 104 SW 9th St, Unit 1204, Case 00110440: Owner Miguel Gomez admitted to unpermitted bathroom demolition and remodeling. The magistrate ordered compliance within 120 days, with $150/day fines (homestead property). 300 SW 64th Ct, Case 00148603: Owner Celia Fernandez admitted to failure to maintain the facade and landscaping. The city originally recommended 90 days, but after the respondent cited medical issues and requested 120 days, the magistrate granted 120 days, with $150/day fines. The inspector agreed to meet with the owner to discuss requirements. 615 SW 73rd Ct, Case 00146380: Maria Rodriguez (with power of attorney) admitted to unpermitted driveway and fence work, stating the permit is nearly obtained. The magistrate ordered compliance within 120 days, with $150/day fines (homestead property). Absentia Cases (Default Judgments) 1074 NW 47th St, Case Unknown: Unpermitted work (addition, fence, pergola). Ordered to comply within 3 days; $250/day fines. 4718 NW 11th Ave, Case 001243: Unpermitted carport and improper RV storage. Ordered to comply within 3 days; $250/day fines. 1280 NW 54th St, Case 00146492: Failure to register vacant lot. Ordered to comply within 3 days; $500/day fines (commercial/non-residential lot). 1025 NW 51st St, Case 00148120: Unpermitted pool and back structure. Ordered to comply within 3 days; $250/day fines. 5555 NW 17th Ave, Case 00151408: Insufficient solid waste service at a commercial property. Ordered to comply within 3 days; $500/day fines. 3616 NW 20th Ave, Case 00106151: Failure to maintain lot and failure to register lot. Ordered to comply within 3 days; $500/day fines. 751 NE 70th St, Case 00132669: Failure to register a vacant, blighted structure and failure to maintain lot. Ordered to comply within 3 days; $250/day fines. 961 NW 7th St (Marina), Case 00110440: Operating a marina without certificate of use (CU) and business tax receipts (BTR). Ordered to comply within 3 days; $500/day fines. 2411 NW 23rd Ct, Case 00134020: Failure to have CU and BTR for an apartment building. Ordered to comply within 3 days; $500/day fines. 452 SW 15th Rd, Case 00131220: Failure to register vacant structure and failure to maintain lot. Ordered to comply within 3 days; $250/day fines. 4370 SW 7th St, Case 00157606: Failure to maintain exterior (facade, landscaping, outside storage). Ordered to comply within 3 days; $250/day fines.

The Climate Resilience Committee (CRC) met on June 1, 2026, to discuss greenway development incentives, sponge park initiatives, budget recommendations, and tree policy. The meeting included public comments, two major presentations, a vote on a sponge parks resolution, and planning for a budget workshop. Public Comments & Testimony - Katrina Morris (Coconut Grove) urged CRC oversight of the tree committee and support for green infrastructure like sponge parks. - Mel Meinhardt (Friends of the Commodore Trail) expressed support for the Greenway Benefits Program but asked for clarity on bonus height provisions in Coconut Grove (NCD 3), stating that T5 areas should be excluded to protect neighborhood character. - Michelle Yi (FIU student, Gen Clio) called for increased tree canopy coverage and transparency in tree trust fund use, citing a 30% canopy goal and alleged tree removal violations. - Angeline Alvarez spoke on behalf of “the trees,” urging CRC to take an active role in the Chapter 17 stakeholder process and to demand data on tree removals. - Albert Gomez (District 2 resident) thanked CRC for supporting the Biscayne Bay Marine Health Summit and requested city action on a wastewater discharge in Edgewater; he also shared a document on how to access iBuild permit data. - Several online commentators (Maria Gonzalez, Samantha Wilson, Aurora Al Qaeda, Dennis Tubno, Jessica Johnson, Lindsay Kane, Mariella Lopez, Sandy Moise, Michelle Baptiste) echoed calls for CRC involvement in the tree committee, data transparency, and protection of the urban canopy. Discussion Items - Greenway Benefits Program (Presentation): Samantha Maldonado (Planning Department) presented proposed code amendments to promote development along greenways. Key elements include updated definitions, public benefits (bonus height/floor area) within a half-mile of greenways, new frontage requirements for greenway-adjacent properties (construction or cash contribution), and a parks trust fund update. The program applies only to T6, D, and T5 zones, with T5 in Coconut Grove NCD 3 excluded. An opt-out provision ensures compliance with state law (SB 180). The CRC voted to support the program, amending the motion to include adoption of best practices from sponge parks for permeability. - Sponge Parks Presentations: - Tom Klein (University of Miami Center for Urban and Community Design) defined sponge parks as nature-based infrastructure that manages stormwater, reduces runoff, and provides amenities. He introduced the “Spongy Urbanism” studio for fall 2026, a collaboration between UM and UPenn, which will study regional sponge city concepts and site-scale designs. The studio seeks a City of Miami site for case study. - Robert Cologne (Miami-Dade County DERM) presented Florida examples: Bay Shore Park (Miami Beach), McDill 48 Park (Tampa), and Ripple Eco Art (Martin County). He highlighted funding sources (Resilient Florida, water management districts) and noted that sponge parks can be cost-effective, improve water quality, and support NFIP CRS credits. - Sponge Resolution (Item 7): The CRC reviewed and unanimously approved a resolution directing the city manager to report within 180 days on a sponge program assessment, including candidate sites, cost estimates, leveraged funding, CRS improvement pathways, and partnership opportunities. The resolution ties to existing city master plans and aims to use green-gray hybrid infrastructure to mitigate flooding and heat. - Budget Recommendations: The CRC agreed to hold a workshop on June 18, 2026, to finalize budget recommendations for FY2025–2026. Submitted proposals include a sponge park budget, inland street pilot, cost estimator for green/gray infrastructure, citywide tree canopy inventory (Chair), and a citizen science tree data project in Overtown (Silvio Pupo Casco). - Office of Resilience & Sustainability Updates: Sonia Brewbaker reported that FIU’s Biocap living seawall tiles have been installed at Morningside Park; monitoring will occur over two years. The Compost for Life pilot (May–July) collected 2,750 pounds of food scraps in the first two weeks, with 142 registered participants. The city also participated in the Biscayne Bay Marine Health Summit. - Open Discussion – Tree Committee: Members discussed the status of the Tree Advisory Committee (TAC), which has not yet convened. Appointments from all districts are pending; the first meeting is expected in June or July. CRC members expressed interest in transparent data and noted that public comments will be forwarded to the TAC. Key Outcomes - Motion to Support Greenway Benefits Program (amended): Passed unanimously with an added provision to incorporate sponge park best practices for permeability. - Sponge Resolution: Approved unanimously, directing staff to deliver a sponge program assessment within 180 days. - Budget Workshop: Scheduled for June 18, 2026, at noon, to finalize CRC budget recommendations. - Future Agenda Items: Parametric insurance discussion and a presentation from NYC Parks on tree canopy management were proposed for upcoming meetings.