Public Meetings - Miami, Florida

The City of Miami Department of Housing and Community Development held a public hearing on April 27, 2026, from approximately 10:00 AM, to gather resident input on the Fiscal Year 2026 Annual Action Plan. This plan outlines how the city will allocate approximately $22 million in federal HUD funding—including CDBG ($4,947,248), HOME ($2,791,447), HOPWA ($14.2 million), and ESG funds—for affordable housing, public services, and community development. City staff presented the funding programs, recent accomplishments, and the public participation process. Three residents and representatives from community organizations provided comments and concerns. No formal votes were taken; the meeting served as a listening session ahead of the draft plan release. Public Comments & Testimony - Hael Beltrang (resident, 2553 SW 18th Street) criticized the lack of Spanish and ASL interpretation, blocked access to City Hall (due to a McLaren event), and questioned the inclusion of "contract negotiation" under accomplishments, calling it deceptive. She also asked how performance figures are compiled. Staff clarified that data comes from the Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report (CAPER) submitted to HUD annually. - Elena Del Monte (CEO, ABE Inc. – Association for the Development of the Exceptional) expressed concern that for the first time, disability services were not recommended for CDBG funding, calling it an oversight. She noted ABE has been compliant for 10–15 years and urged the city to restore funding. She also highlighted the long-term decline in CDBG allocations (from $13M in 2002 to under $5M today) and called for stronger federal advocacy, including from lobbyists and congressional representatives. She stressed that children, adults with disabilities, and the elderly must remain city priorities. - Mirian Ura (representing Alapada Community Action Inc., District 1) emphasized the growing crisis among the elderly due to rising rents and insufficient federal funds. Her agency provides meals, social services, and transportation. She urged the city to pressure Washington for increased CDBG funding. - Mark Stalworth (Southeast Overtown Park West Community Redevelopment Agency) supported additional CDBG funding and recommended conducting zip-code-specific surveys to better target affordable housing needs, as city AMI differs from county AMI. Discussion Items - Presentation of the Annual Action Plan: Staff explained the four entitlement programs and their allocations. CDBG funds are capped at 15% for public services. HOME funds are used as gap financing for housing projects. HOPWA serves low-income persons with HIV. ESG funds address homelessness through outreach, vouchers, and rapid rehousing. Staff noted that all funding levels have declined in real terms due to inflation, and the city supplements with local Social Service Gap Funds. - Accomplishments: The city reported over 3,600 affordable housing units (completed, underway, or in negotiation) supported by over $70 million in investment. Specific metrics: 420 households received childcare/youth services; 778 seniors received meal support; 12 individuals with disabilities received assistance; 17 households got down payment assistance; 37 homes were rehabbed; 660 HOPWA tenant-based rental assistance; 356 Section 8 rental assistance; 62 rapid rehousing; 10 businesses received technical assistance; $2.9 million in infrastructure improvements; commercial facade program in Districts 4 and 5 assisted over 10 businesses. - Process Updates: Staff announced a new online application system (Neighborly) replacing ZoomGrants for the next RFP cycle (FY27-28 and FY28-29). Workshops will be held per district. The draft Annual Action Plan will be released soon with a 30-day public comment period, and another public meeting specific to HOPWA will occur on Wednesday (April 29). Key Outcomes - No votes or formal decisions were made; the hearing was for public input collection. - The city will incorporate the comments received and release the draft Annual Action Plan for a 30-day comment period. - A follow-up HOPWA-focused public meeting is scheduled for April 29, 2026. - Staff will conduct training workshops for the new Neighborly RFP system. - Accessibility concerns (blocked entrance, lack of translation) were acknowledged but not formally addressed; staff apologized.

The Southeast Overtown Park West Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) held a brief meeting on April 23, 2026. The board unanimously approved two resolutions, withdrew a third item, and approved the minutes from the previous meeting. No public comments were made. Agenda Items - Item 1: A resolution authorizing the executive director to execute a settlement agreement. Approved unanimously without discussion. - Item 2: A resolution authorizing the executive director to enter into a revocable license agreement for the temporary use of a portion of the Overtown Performance Arts Center (300 Northwest 11th Street) for the Miami Heat Culinary Training Program, at an amount not to exceed $1. Approved unanimously without discussion. - Item 3: A resolution granting $3.5 million to Sixth Street Properties Miami LLC was withdrawn. A motion to withdraw passed unanimously. Approval of Minutes - The meeting minutes from April 9, 2026, were approved unanimously. Key Outcomes - All votes were unanimous, with no discussion or public comment. - The meeting concluded, and the City of Miami Commission meeting was scheduled to resume at approximately 2:30 PM.

The Omni Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) Board met on April 23, 2026 at 17:15 UTC. The meeting addressed two consent resolutions (funding and loan subordination) and a discussion item on the fiscal year 2025 audit. No public comments were received. Consent Calendar - Resolution 1 (amended): Authorized up to $4 million in grant funds to Estella Lockett for the redevelopment and rehabilitation of the Lockett House, a 10-unit affordable housing mixed-use project at 157 Northwest 17th Street. The funds will be provided as a forgivable loan with rent restrictions for 50 years, secured by a recorded covenant. The amendment clarified that funds cover redevelopment and rehabilitation costs. - Resolution 2: Authorized subordination of the CRA's existing forgivable loan to Cush Property LLC (for the mixed-use affordable housing development at 2003 North Miami Avenue) to an additional lender, NRD One Public Benefits Trust Fund of the Wigwood Business Improvement District, in an amount not to exceed $2,800,000. The executive director was authorized to negotiate and execute the necessary documents. - Both resolutions were approved unanimously without discussion. Discussion Items - Fiscal Year 2025 Audit Presentation: Ridgie Tannock of Richie Tannock TA, CPA presented the audit results for the year ended September 30, 2025. Key findings included: - Unmodified (clean) opinion on the CRA's basic financial statements. - No significant deficiencies in internal control reported. - No fraud or illegal acts involving senior management or employees that would materially misstate the financial statements. - No non-audit services performed except assistance in preparing financial statements. - The management letter issued March 5, 2026 contained no issues. - The auditor expressed independence from the agency. - The board accepted the audit findings unanimously via motion. Key Outcomes - Resolutions 1 and 2 were passed as consent items. Resolution 1 was approved as amended. - Audit report for fiscal year 2025 was accepted by the board.

The City of Miami Commission convened on April 23, 2026, for a full-day meeting that included recognitions, extensive public comment, and deliberation on numerous resolutions. Key items included the renewal of the Ultra Music Festival license, allocation of the Public Benefits Trust Fund, and a proposed public safety bond. Several items were deferred or withdrawn. Recognitions - April was recognized as Child Abuse Awareness Month. The Commission honored the team (Miami PD, DCF, school system) that rescued a six-year-old child wandering the streets. - Monty Trainer, a prominent figure in Coconut Grove, was presented with a key to the city. Procedural Items - The city attorney and clerk read rules of procedure. The agenda was set after several items were withdrawn or deferred (RE3 to May 14, RE6, RE12, RE13 withdrawn; PZ3 indefinitely deferred; others noted). Consent Calendar - CA1–CA5 passed unanimously (CA1 required 4/5 vote). - PH1–PH7 passed as amended: PH5 amended, PH6 amended per substitution memo dated April 17, 2026, PH7 approved as introduced. Public Comments & Testimony - Ace Theater (PH7): Speakers supported allocating Miami for Everyone funds to restore the historic theater in Coconut Grove. Denise Wallace (97) and her daughter Dr. Denise Wallace spoke about its cultural significance. Representatives from GRACE and Coconut Grove Ministry Alliance urged approval. - Public Benefits Trust Fund (RE10): Residents from District 2 (John Dolson, David Porter, Kiana Cherry) supported allocating funds for affordable housing and park improvements in West Grove/Coconut Grove, emphasizing equity. Commissioner King noted District 2 is a donor district but has needs. Some critics questioned past spending. - Public Safety Bond (RE17): Multiple police and fire union representatives (Glena Perez, Walter Lewis, Alexander Cadness, etc.) described deplorable working conditions (mold, leaking roofs, broken bathrooms) and urged approval. Several residents (Elvis Cruz, Christopher Lunding, Thomas Kennedy) opposed, citing lack of detail, need for audit of existing funds ($400M Forever Bond), and high cost ($450M). The item was later deferred. - Election Changes (RE5/RE18): Speakers supported moving to even-year elections (citing Coral Gables vote) and smaller districts. Mel Meinhart urged deferral, arguing RE18 conditioned reform on extending terms. Stronger Miami petition with 21,000 signatures referenced. - Ultra Music Festival (RE8): Residents from downtown (Kristen Browdy, Jans Kopach, James Torres, Laura Okamura, Adam Cervera) requested deferral for genuine community input and noise mitigation, citing a lawsuit filed the previous day. Supporters (Paul Campbell, Charlie Ratner, Kelly Angel, Dave Dobler, Fernando Wiener, etc.) emphasized economic impact, global brand, job creation, and sustainability achievements (500,000+ pounds waste diverted). - Street Naming (RE7): Elvis Cruz and Maria Gonzalez opposed naming NE 14th Terrace after former commissioner Angel Gonzalez, citing his criminal record (voter fraud, corruption). A later speaker defended his legacy. The item passed on consent. - Traffic Management Presentation: Josioffer Diaz (Miami-Dade Transportation) presented the Advanced Traffic Management System (upgrading 3,000+ traffic signals) and Vision Zero ($44M program). Full synchronization for Miami expected by 2029. Commissioners asked about AI capabilities and specific corridors. - Riverwalk & Parks (RE11, RE10): Miami River Commission chairman supported funding for riverwalk completion and Flagler worker's cottage restoration. - Developer Agreement (RE16): Juan Carlos Planas and Rob Piper alleged that the final executed agreement differed from the commission-approved version and urged investigation or cancellation. - Street Improvements (FR2): Builders Association and residents requested deferral, arguing the formula lacked legal justification and fairness. - Affordable Housing: Chaplain Stanley Young urged attention to homelessness and shelter needs. Discussion Items - RE8 (Ultra Music Festival): Commissioner Pardo detailed extensive outreach (town halls, surveys, building manager meetings). Ultra agreed to restructure the license as four five-year terms with a 45-day commission review window before each renewal, additional low-frequency sound limit (97 dB with 1 dB margin), 28-day park restoration (down from 38), perimeter fencing, two annual community meetings, ban on using Maurice Ferre parking lot, and a dog park area. Approved as amended (unanimous). - RE10 (Public Benefits Trust Fund): Heated debate on distribution. Commissioner Gabella expressed frustration with the ad-hoc process and demanded an equitable formula going forward. The commission approved a distribution of $13 million to District 3 (Pardo), $3 million to District 4 (Escalona), $1.5 million to District 5 (Rosato), and $1.5 million to District 1 (Gabella). A separate resolution for the D1 and D5 shares also passed. District 2 was not included. The City Manager was directed to develop a transparent method and identify all discretionary funds. - RE11 (Pump Station): Approved for Edgewater flooding relief (unanimous). - RE14 (Allocation): Amended to $3 million and passed (unanimous). - RE16 (Developer Agreement): Commissioner Gabella raised concerns that the final agreement differed from the commission's 2020 vote. He requested the Inspector General investigate. The item passed with that directive. - FR2 (Street Improvements Threshold): Commissioners debated fairness for property owners. Proposed to remove homestead exemption from the ordinance. Deferred to June 11, 2026, for staff analysis and legal review. - RE17 (Public Safety Bond): Deferred to May 14, 2026, at Mayor Higgins’ request. - RE5/RE18 (Election Changes): Deferred to May 14, 2026, for consolidation and to allow the city attorney to present options on terms. Key Outcomes - RE8 Approved: Ultra Music Festival license renewed as amended (unanimous). - RE10 and associated resolution approved: $13M (D3), $3M (D4), $1.5M (D5), $1.5M (D1) from Public Benefits Trust Fund. - RE17 Deferred: Bond referendum postponed to May 14. - RE5/RE18 Deferred: Election charter amendments postponed to May 14. - FR2 Deferred: Street improvement ordinance postponed to June 11. - FR1 and FR3 approved (Human Services Department creation, Flagler district sidewalk cafes) on first reading. - PZ items: PZ1, PZ2, PZ4 approved as amended; PZ3 indefinitely deferred. - Pocket item: Fireworks display waiver for Inter Miami CF games approved (unanimous). - Boards/Committees: DC1 appointments approved; AC2 denied (union failed to provide required six candidate names); BC3 appointment approved. - Investigation: Inspector General requested to examine changes in RE16 developer agreement. - Staff Direction: City Manager to develop equitable distribution formula for impact/fee funds and identify all discretionary fund balances. Additional Business - The meeting recessed at noon for Omni and SE Overtown/Park West CRA meetings, then reconvened. An attorney-client session on pending litigation (Joe Carroyo v. City of Miami) was held from approximately 3:10 PM to 4:10 PM. - The meeting concluded after approving the pocket item and adjourning.

This meeting of the Miami Code Enforcement Board, held on April 22, 2026, beginning at approximately 10:15 AM, addressed a large calendar of code enforcement cases. The board heard 14 to-be-heard cases (where property owners contested violations or sought extensions), several mitigation hearings (to reduce accrued fines), and a series of abstention hearings (uncontested defaults). The meeting also included opening remarks, procedural explanations, and closing announcements. The board acted on cases involving tree removal, unpermitted construction, failure to maintain lots, lack of certificates of use, and other violations. Extension of Time - Case 1360 NW 34th St (Carlos Martel): The property owner pleaded guilty but stated compliance was nearly complete. The board granted 30 days to comply, with a $150 per diem thereafter. To-Be-Heard Cases - Case 281 NE 78th St (lender representative): The property was in foreclosure; the lender requested 90 days to complete repairs. The board found the property guilty and granted 120 days with a $250 per diem. - Case 260 NE 82nd Terrace (Carl Webster): Tree removal violation. The board granted 120 days to obtain an after-the-fact permit, with $150 per diem. The city attorney offered assistance. - Case 3587 Hibiscus St (architect representative): Unpermitted tree cutting. The board granted 60 days to submit a standalone tree permit, with $150 per diem. - Case 8634 NE 10th Ave (Hernan, owner): The owner disputed city jurisdiction over hedges in the swale. After hearing testimony from the inspector, the board found the property guilty and granted 120 days to resolve the issue, with $150 per diem. - Case 7736 NW 2nd Ave (Silvia Garcia): Certificate of use violation. The board granted 120 days, with $250 per diem. - Case 7647 NE 3rd Ave (property manager): Unpermitted fence (already removed). The board granted 120 days to obtain a permit, with $250 per diem. - Case 1748 NW 23rd Terrace (Maria Terreros): Mechanic shop without certificate of use. The board granted 120 days, with $250 per diem. - Case 44 NW 46th St (LLC representative): Demolition without permit (permit application in process). The board granted 120 days, with $250 per diem. - Case 913 NW 46th St (Nelson Le Conan): Concrete driveway without permit. The board granted 120 days, with $150 per diem. - Case 291 NW 52nd St (George Roseau): Hedges over sidewalk and unpermitted work. The board granted 120 days, with $150 per diem. - Case 6414 NW 15th Ave (Vincent Close): Unpermitted windows. The board granted 120 days, with $150 per diem. - Case 1641 NW 13th Ct (Michael Shaya): Gravel parking lot, lack of certificate of use, and business tax receipt. The board granted 120 days, with $250 per diem. - Case 1453 NW 56th St (Jania Davis): Unpermitted fence, windows, and doors. The board granted 120 days, with $150 per diem. - Case 459 NE 25th St (attorney Patricia Praz): Failure to maintain lot and register structure. The board granted 30 days, with $250 per diem. Mitigation Hearings - Case 3082 Mary St Unit A (Juan Pablo Drill, owner’s representative): Single-family home with homestead exemption; lien of $71,850. The board unanimously voted to reduce the fine to $0. - Case 390 NE 71st St (Tobinina Capolongo): Vacant lot; lien of $294,500. The board reduced the fine to $7,500 (minimum). - Case 4505 North Miami Ave (Eli Memoon, attorney): Three cases on one property (commercial/single-family); total liens of $585,250. The board reduced each of the three fines to $15,000 (minimum for commercial). - Case 1427 NW 69th Terrace (Marcia Fernandez): Single-family home with homestead exemption; lien of $142,500. The board unanimously voted to reduce the fine to $0. - Case 2722 NW 23rd Ave (two cases, owner inherited): Single-family home (no homestead); liens of $51,750 and $67,000. The board reduced each to $5,000, total $10,000. - Case 1124 NW 18th Pl (owner-present): Single-family home with homestead exemption; lien of $244,800. The board unanimously voted to reduce the fine to $0. - Case 209 NW 41st St (Natalia Barrieri, representing corporation): Duplex (no homestead); lien of $654,000. The board reduced the fine to $10,000 (minimum for duplex). - Case 1743 West Flagler St (Sebastian Haramid): Commercial property; lien of $113,000. The board reduced the fine to $15,000. - Case 3792 Camquot Ave (Cardinals Nunez, power of attorney): Single-family home (no homestead in 2025); lien of $50,000. The board unanimously voted to reduce the fine to $0. - Case 555 NE 52nd Terrace (Enrique Canton, owner): Single-family home (no homestead); lien of $253,000. The board unanimously voted to reduce the fine to $0. - Case 3435 NW 2nd St (Joining Fortnoto, representative): Single-family home with homestead exemption; lien of $230,850. The board unanimously voted to reduce the fine to $0. - Case 1190 NW 55th St (Douglas Hiller, attorney): Vacant lot; lien of $62,750. The board reduced the fine to $7,500. - Case 2281 SW 26th St (Maria Paguaga, owner): Single-family home with homestead exemption; lien of $345,450. The board unanimously voted to reduce the fine to $0. - Case 840 NW 22nd St (Hector Santana): Vacant lot used as parking; lien of $488,250. The board reduced the fine to $7,500. - Case 90 NE 54th St (Kyle Hurst, owner): Commercial property; lien of $211,750. The board reduced the fine to $15,000. - Case 7029 NW 7th Ave (owner representative): Commercial property; lien of $84,250. The board reset the case to the next hearing after the owner raised a factual dispute (not allowed at mitigation). - Case 1095 NW 23rd St (Damien Kinkela): Industrial lot; lien of $6,000. The board reduced the fine to $1,200 (20% of lien). - Case 1244 NW 52nd St (two cases, owner with widow’s exemption): Single-family home; liens of $80,100 and $778,200. The board unanimously voted to reduce both fines to $0. - Case 1270 NW 26th St (Omar Garcia, owner): Vacant lot (formerly single-family home); lien of $1,246,000. The board voted 5-2 to reduce the fine to $7,500 (minimum for vacant lot). - Case 401 NW 64th St (owner’s son): Single-family home (no homestead but family lived there); lien of $442,500. The board unanimously voted to reduce the fine to $0. Abstention Hearings (Default Cases) The board heard and adjudicated 15 uncontested cases where property owners did not appear. In each case, the city presented evidence, the board found the property guilty, and imposed compliance deadlines (typically 3 days) with a $250 per diem fine. Cases included: 1260 NW 3rd St (vacant lot), 4727 NW 5th Ave (unpermitted work), 133 NE 48th St (fence/driveway), 1776 NW 34th St (failure to maintain), 459 NE 25th St (already heard), 162 NE 22nd St (vacant structure), 4800 NW 2nd Ave (vacant/blighted), 399 NW 28th St (windows/doors), 7619 NE 3rd Ct (CU/BTR), 321 NE 75th St (lot registration), 775 NE 77th Terrace (short-term rental – reset due to missing video), 7623 Biscayne Blvd (CU/BTR and work without permit), 1501 NW 1st Ave (lot registration), 529 SW 7th Ct (debris/address display), and 539 SW 7th Ct (outside storage/graffiti). Key Outcomes - The board processed over 40 cases, granting extensions of time ranging from 30 to 120 days for compliance. - Mitigation reductions ranged from $0 to $15,000 per case, with several unanimous votes to zero out fines for hardship or homestead properties. - One case was reset to the next hearing date (May 27, 2026) due to a factual dispute. - One case was reset because the city lacked the required video evidence. - The board noted the large calendar and the cooperation of city staff and inspectors. - The meeting concluded with closing remarks thanking the board chair for his service and public service announcements about rental assistance, solid waste, distracted driving, and HIV prevention.

The board convened on April 22, 2026, at 10:00 AM to consider four nuisance abatement cases. Members present: Cunil, Williams, Raynus, McCall, Galan, Ramos, and Rodriguez. The clerk swore in interpreters and witnesses. The board heard updates on each property and took actions including termination of orders for compliance and resets for status. Discussion Items - Case 1 – 1721 Northwest 55th Street (Owner: Danny Felton): The neighborhood resource officer reported the property is in compliance with all conditions of the order. The owner appeared the previous month. Jurisdiction was set to expire the following day. The board voted to terminate the nuisance abatement order for compliance. - Case 2 – 1278 Northwest 58th Terrace (Owner: Role Cosio): No notice was provided, and no update was available. The board voted to reset the case for a status hearing on May 27, 2026. - Case 3 – 1283 Northwest 59th Street (Owner: Najib Iqbal): Same situation as Case 2 – no notice posted and no compliance update. The board voted to reset for a status hearing on May 27, 2026. - Case 4 – 143 Northeast 68th Street: This was the first hearing, previously reset due to the owner’s medical absence. The owner initiated compliance prior to the initial December hearing, maintained the property, posted a no-trespass sign, provided adequate lighting, filed an affidavit, and stayed in contact with the NROs. The vice chair asked about any subsequent incidents; none were reported. The board voted to terminate the order for compliance. Key Outcomes - Motion to terminate for compliance (Case 1): Approved unanimously. - Motion to reset to May 27, 2026 (Case 2): Approved unanimously. - Motion to reset to May 27, 2026 (Case 3): Approved unanimously. - Motion to terminate for compliance (Case 4): Approved unanimously after vice chair’s inquiry about ongoing drug activity; no new incidents were reported. - Announcement: The board noted that Mr. Quino will be leaving the board.

The Wynwood Design Review Committee (WDRC) met on April 21, 2026, to approve routine signage applications and conduct a workshop focused on developing a design vision plan for the Wynwood neighborhood. Key discussion topics included preserving the neighborhood's character, improving the pedestrian experience, defining and regulating art, and enhancing the approval process for adaptive reuse projects. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: The committee unanimously approved the minutes from the March 10, 2026 meeting. - Absence Waiver: The committee unanimously approved an absence waiver for member Zion Mass, who was absent from today's meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made during the designated period. Discussion Items - WDRC Resolution Item 1 (Minute Track 19178): Applicant Gina Penny of Atlas Sign, representing Starbucks, requested approval for a pedestrian-oriented blade sign at 2431 Northwest 2nd Avenue. The sign is double-faced, 30 by 30 inches (6.25 sq ft), mounted over nine feet above grade, with soft internal illumination. The applicant noted that an existing wall art piece was approved for the store's flat wall sign. The committee approved the application unanimously. - WDRC Resolution Item 2 (Minute Track 19180): Applicant Teresa Pino, representing Cyan Gallery, sought approval for a reverse channel letter sign at 46 Northwest 27th Street. The sign will be painted gold with warm white LED halo illumination, compatible with the building's black facade. The applicant noted the same sign type was previously approved for a nearby business, House of Mean. The committee approved the application unanimously. - Wynwood Design Vision Plan Workshop: This was a formal interactive workshop led by the Gensler consulting firm to develop a design intent booklet for Wynwood. Participants included current and former WDRC members (Victor Sanchez, Amanda Herzler, Andres Arcila), representatives from the Wynwood Business Improvement District (BID) (William Kelly, David Lerner), and City of Miami Chief of Urban Design Paul Cinovesi. - Key Themes Raised by Participants: - Preservation of Wynwood's authentic, organic character and raw creative energy, which is at risk due to new development. - The importance of maintaining walkability, fine-grain storefronts, and pedestrian-scale design. - The need to define "art" more clearly, distinguishing between authentic street art and mandated, often generic, facade treatments. - Concerns that the current approval process for adaptive reuse projects is cumbersome and costly, discouraging the retention of historic warehouse buildings. - The challenge of enforcement: approved art and materials are often value-engineered or changed after approval, and there is no mechanism for recourse. - The disconnect between landlords and tenants regarding facade art requirements, and the need for a system (e.g., a public art fund or rotating mural program) to handle art placement and maintenance. - Proposed Solutions: - Create a publicly available "lookbook" of precedents (e.g., sign types, art examples) to set expectations for applicants. - Establish an art fund or curatorial body to manage art on approved walls, relieving individual developers and tenants of the burden. - Mandate rotation of art every X years to maintain dynamism and address maintenance. - Integrate art into public realm elements (street signs, sidewalks, street furniture) beyond just building facades. - Provide flexibility in implementing the Wynwood Streetscape Master Plan, which is difficult for adaptive reuse projects due to existing setbacks and county/FDOT constraints. - Consider incentivizing (e.g., bonus density) the inclusion of galleries or artist studios in new developments to house the creative community that defines the neighborhood. - Future: The design guidelines are expected to be completed in 5–6 months, and further stakeholder meetings will be held. Key Outcomes - WDRC unanimously approved three items: the March 10, 2026 minutes, an absence waiver for Zion Mass, and two signage applications (Starbucks blade sign and Cyan Gallery reverse channel letter sign). - The committee and stakeholders provided extensive input for the Wynwood Design Vision Plan, to be compiled by Gensler. No formal motions were made regarding the workshop content. - The meeting was adjourned after the workshop.

The Miami Planning Zoning and Appeals Board (PZAB) held a regular meeting on April 15, 2026, at Miami City Hall, beginning at approximately 6:45 PM. The board considered a full agenda including a major use special permit for a Midtown mixed‑use development, a variance for zero parking under the Live Local Act, several zoning code amendments (mayor’s initiative on T4/T5 single‑family/duplex standards, the affordable housing transfer of density program, sidewalk cafes in the Flagler district, and lot size clarifications), and two alley vacations. The meeting included public comments on multiple items, with significant turnout for the transfer of density program. Opening and Administrative Items - Roll call established a quorum of 11 members; member Maria Paula de Carolis arrived late and was granted an absence waiver. Vice Chair Andres Lopez, members Mario Bailey, Lynette Cardosh, Chris Collins, Joseph Corral, Paul Mann, Ilan Matoyer, Joshua Patinkin, Arthur Parasoff, and Manuel Vadillo were present. Alternate Arthur Parasoff was seated as a full member until all 12 members arrived. - Minutes from December 17, 2025, February 18, 2026, and March 18, 2026 were approved unanimously. - Four items were deferred: PZ2 (3100 Monroe) and PZ4 (Coconut Grove Playhouse) and PZ10 were moved to May 6, 2026; PZ7 (4000 N Miami Ave) was moved to June 3, 2026. All deferred by a vote of 11‑0. Public Comments & Testimony - Elvis Cruz (631 NE 57th St) opposed the zero‑parking variance (PZAB3), arguing it would burden the adjacent T3 neighborhood. He also opposed the transfer of density program (PZAB6), stating the city’s maximum density potential in 2016 was already eight times the 2010 census count and that further upzoning is “insanity”; he urged exclusion of historic districts and neighborhood conservation districts (NCDs). - Andy Parrish (location not given) commented on the Midtown MUSP (PZAB1), reminding the board of successional zoning principles, and later urged the board to consider a variety of development types instead of constant high‑rises. - John Dolson (4205 Lennox Dr, Coconut Grove) shared concerns about the transfer of density program, calling it a “shell game,” and asked to protect NCDs. - Debbie Dulson (4205 Lennox Dr) echoed the request to exempt NCDs, noting the city commission had already voted to do so. - Billy Corbin (location not given) urged better public communication and transparency, referencing the canceled playhouse hearing. - Cliff Losh (2811 S Bayshore Dr), president of Park Grove and representative of 3,000 residents, supported the transfer of density program only if NCDs are carved out, and called for real planning. - Elisa Margules (Rice St, Center Grove) requested exclusion of NCDs, saying residents already suffer from overdevelopment, soul‑crushing traffic, and inadequate infrastructure. - Henrietta Schwarz (2627 S Bayshore Dr) asked to exclude historic districts as well, warning of mindless density and hurricane evacuation concerns. - Vicky Perla (Park Grove) noted the geographic constraints of Coconut Grove (coastline, narrow streets) and opposed shoehorning density there. - Chris Ernst (2831 Bayshore) criticized the cumulative effect of piecemeal legislation and lack of planning. - Bob Linton (2811 S Bayshore Dr) questioned requiring developers to fulfill affordable‑housing obligations in the same district before receiving new approvals. - Terrell Fritz (executive director, Flagler BID) spoke in favor of the sidewalk café ordinance (PZAB11), noting it would activate small storefronts and support the historic main street. - Iris Iscaro (attorney) spoke in favor of the lot size exemption clarification (PZAB12), calling it a helpful cleanup. Discussion Items Major Use Special Permit – Midtown Mixed‑Use Development (PZAB1) The project located at 3055 N Miami Ave (5.344 acres, zoned T624AO) proposed two 28‑story towers (318 ft) and two 18‑story towers (218 ft) with 924 residential units, 49,000 sq ft of office, 106,000 sq ft of retail, 1,118 on‑site parking spaces, and 200 off‑site spaces via easement. The Major Use Special Permit was required because the site lies within the legacy SD27 overlay. Staff recommended approval with conditions. Applicant Brian Dombrowski noted the project would generate 7,678 construction jobs, $408 million in labor income, 2,200 ongoing jobs, $374 million annual economic output, and $1.4 billion total economic output. Public commenter Andy Parrish raised concerns about successional zoning. The board approved the MUSP and associated class two special permit by a vote of 11‑0. Variance for Zero Parking – Live Local Project (PZAB3) The applicant, Natalie Duran, requested a variance to allow zero parking for an 11‑unit affordable housing project on a legally non‑conforming 3,822 sq ft lot at 1662 NW 1st St (zoned T5L). Staff supported the variance, noting the lot’s irregular size made parking impossible. The project would use the Live Local Act with 40% of units at 120% AMI. Public commenter Elvis Cruz opposed, arguing it would push parking into the T3 neighborhood. Board member Maria Paula de Carolis arrived late and abstained, but remarked that the hardship was inherent to the lot, not a valid basis for a variance. The board approved the variance by a vote of 11‑0. Zoning Code Amendments – T3 Standards in T4/T5 and Setback Changes (PZAB5) The amendment, supported by Mayor Eileen Higgins who spoke at the start of the meeting, has two parts: (1) allow single‑family and duplexes in T4/T5 zones to use T3 development standards, reducing parking and impervious coverage; (2) allow zero‑lot‑line when abutting single‑family homes in T5/T6/CIHD zones (with no glazing or balconies on the abutting wall) to improve privacy. Staff stressed that protections for T3 and T4 zones remain unchanged. Public commenter Elvis Cruz and the Morningside Civic Association opposed, but the board approved 11‑0, calling it a long‑overdue cleanup. Affordable Housing Transfer of Density Program (PZAB6) This amendment to the attainable mixed‑income housing transfer of density program (adopted 2022) lowers the sending site threshold in opportunity zones from 200 to 70 units, adds neighborhood development zones as sending sites, fixes the fee at 20%, allows receiving sites to purchase up to 100% of doubled density (up from 50%), and exempts the transferred density from parking requirements. Staff noted the program has been used only once since 2022. The city commission had already removed neighborhood conservation districts (NCDs) from the legislation at first reading. After extensive public comment opposing the program unless NCDs and historic districts are excluded, the board held a discussion. Members expressed concerns about piecemeal upzoning, infrastructure deficits, and the cumulative effect on T3 neighborhoods. A motion was made to approve with recommendations: (1) exclude NCDs, (2) exclude historic districts, and (3) require a 500‑foot buffer from T3 zones. The motion passed 10‑1, with member Mario Bailey dissenting. Alley Vacations (PZAB9 and PZAB10) - PZAB9: Vacate a 15‑ft public alley near NW 71st St and NW 5th Pl (dead‑end alley, impeded by I‑95 column). Staff and applicant supported. Approved 11‑0. - PZAB10: Vacate a 15‑ft by 500‑ft private alley within the Brahman SAP (between Biscayne Blvd and NE 2nd Ave). The vacated space will be used for a tower and a 50‑ft woonerf to improve walkability. Approved 11‑0. Sidewalk Cafés in Flagler Specialty District (PZAB11) An ordinance to amend Chapter 54 to allow alcohol service establishments to operate sidewalk cafés within the Flagler Specialty District, subject to permit requirements and on‑premise service from the main structure. Staff and the Flagler BID supported it as a tool to activate small retail spaces ahead of the FIFA World Cup. Approved 11‑0. Lot Size Exemption Clarification (PZAB12) Clarifies that lots already platted, with unity of title or covenants approved by the city, are exempt from lot size restriction exceptions. Staff and applicant support. Approved 11‑0. Key Outcomes - Major Use Special Permit (PZAB1) approved 11‑0, with conditions. - Zero‑parking variance (PZAB3) approved 11‑0 (one abstention). - Zoning code amendment (PZAB5) approved 11‑0. - Transfer of density program (PZAB6) approved with recommendations: the board voted 10‑1 to send the ordinance to the city commission with a recommendation to exclude NCDs and historic districts and to add a 500‑foot buffer from T3 zones. The final decision rests with the commission at second reading on May 28, 2026. - Alley vacations (PZAB9 and PZAB10) each approved 11‑0. - Sidewalk café ordinance (PZAB11) approved 11‑0. - Lot size clarification (PZAB12) approved 11‑0. - All approvals are recommendations to the Miami City Commission except where the board’s decision is final (the variance); the variance decision is appealable to the hearing board within 15 days.

The Civil Service Board met on April 14, 2026, to consider a range of personnel matters, including extensions of probationary periods for several employees, a military leave request, and requests to continue or hold in abeyance certain disciplinary hearings. The board also adopted the agenda and approved minutes from the previous meeting. Consent Calendar - Unanimously approved the agenda and minutes. - Approved extensions of probationary periods for the following employees: - Jaheel Guzman, Police Sergeant, three months beyond April 1, 2026 (employee absent but in agreement). - Jimmy L. Rodriguez, Police Sergeant, twelve months beyond April 1, 2026, due to active duty military leave. - Makaia Moore, 911 Operator, three months beyond April 7, 2026 (employee present and in agreement). - Gurlene Lang, 911 Operator, three months beyond April 7, 2026 (employee present and in agreement). - Dewana Walden, 911 Operator, six months beyond April 7, 2026, due to previous attendance issues and additional training needs (employee present and in agreement). - Janita Milhome, Police Officer, three months beyond April 24, 2026 (employee present and in agreement). - Belinda Milan, Police Officer, three months beyond April 17, 2026 (employee present and in agreement). - Ernest Merritt Jr., Human Resources Technician I, six months beyond July 2, 2026, due to need for improvement in thoroughness and work quality (employee present and in agreement). - Gabriel Palacio, Senior Building Inspector, six months beyond May 4, 2026, to allow time to pass plan examiner exam (employee present and in agreement). - Approved request from Isabella Sanchez Agramonte, former Human Resources Technician I, to be placed on the re-employment list, endorsed by the department director. - Approved military leave of absence for Angelo Vinegra, Lieutenant, without pay from February 16, 2026 through May 16, 2026. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made during the meeting. Discussion Items - E1: Request to Hold in Abeyance Unsatisfactory Service Rating Hearing of Tashara Aline, Police Sergeant Lynette Amagiri, Assistant City Attorney, requested the hearing be held in abeyance pending a hearing before the Miami-Dade Commission on Human Rights regarding a related discrimination charge. The employee's representative, Griskimana from the South Florida Police Benevolent Association, stated readiness but agreed to the abeyance with conditions, including a monthly update and provision of transcripts. The board discussed rescheduling and decided to set a status update for May 12, 2026, rather than a full abeyance. The motion was made and seconded to reschedule the hearing to May 12, 2026, and passed unanimously. - E2: Request for Continuance – Shakita Johnson, Emergency Dispatcher The employee's attorney, O.C. Rind, requested a continuance for a hearing on a 24-hour suspension effective April 29, 2025. The city had no objection. This was noted as the second employee continuance (with one previous board continuance). The board approved the continuance; the new hearing date was not specified in the transcript. - H1: Appeal Hearing – Frankita M. Roberts, Legal Assistant Employee's attorney Chelsea Lewis requested a continuance due to a pending EEOC charge involving the same facts. The city had no objection. The board continued the hearing to July 21, 2026, with the understanding that other proceedings might provide additional information. Key Outcomes - All routine personnel matters were approved unanimously. - The hearing for Tashara Aline was rescheduled to May 12, 2026, for a status update. - The suspension hearing for Shakita Johnson was continued (date not specified). - The appeal hearing for Frankita M. Roberts was continued to July 21, 2026. - The next regular board meeting is scheduled for May 5, 2026. Note: The transcript also includes a public service announcement about FPL scams, which appears to be an unrelated recording at the end and is not part of the meeting proceedings.