Public Meetings - Miami, Florida

The Wynwood Design Review Committee (WDRC) met on March 10, 2026, to consider five design and signage applications and receive an update on the Wynwood Vision Plan. The meeting began with approval of the February 10, 2026 minutes and closed public comment period with no testimony. Key outcomes included approval of an Apparatus showroom, a Pitbull-affiliated office/recording studio, and two Arlo nightclub signs, while a monument sign for the Amara residential building was disapproved. The Frida Kahlo Winwood Residences project was approved with conditions emphasizing art on the primary facade. Consent Calendar - The minutes from February 10, 2026 were approved unanimously without discussion. Public Comments & Testimony - No oral or online public comments were received; the public comment period was closed by consensus. Discussion Items - Apparatus Showroom (Address: WDRC – West 20th NW 26th St; Adaptive Reuse in T5-0 Zone) - Gabriel Hendifar, founder of Apparatus, and Tommy (head of interiors) presented a design for a showroom featuring a stucco facade with black mosaic tile, travertine, and custom brass elements. The art narrative includes a painted gilded sun, figure, and abstracted grid on the facade, intended as changeable art. The project was described as a living environment, not a traditional retail space. - Committee members praised the design but suggested considering lighting (warmer tones) and landscaping contributions to the streetscape. The applicant noted they had a lighting study using 2700K interior lights. - Motion: Approved with comments for consideration on lighting and landscape. Unanimous vote. - Amara Monument Sign (Address: 45 NE 27th St; NRD1 Wynwood; Sign Permit) - Applicant Katia Cáceres (Signalite) presented a single-sided illuminated monument sign (corten steel face, aluminum cabinet) for the Amara residential building. The sign measured 8 ft wide x 4 ft high, with halo illumination from 3000K LED modules. - Committee members raised concerns: the location on the southwest corner was partially hidden by the building and neighboring property; the corten steel material did not match the building's aesthetic and felt like an afterthought. The applicant mentioned the owner wanted a creative material but was open to alternatives. - Motion to disapprove (by a member who passed the gavel) based on awkward location and incompatible material. Motion seconded. Vote: Unanimous for disapproval (all members voted aye for rejection). The committee recommended revisiting both location and material. - Pitbull Office/Recording Studio (Address: 25 NE 28th St; 1,728 sq ft office; NRD1 Wynwood; T5-0 Zone) - Mark Coleman (Riley Group) and Javier Barrera (Deforma Studio) presented an 8-story, 25-ft-wide infill building for office and a recording studio for artist Pitbull. The design uses reclaimed brick, floor-to-ceiling glass, a rebar-and-brick screen at ground level, and placeholder art on the east facade. The project required no waivers. - Committee comments: commended the clever infill design and vertical organization. Suggested refining the ground-floor screen and adding art on the south facade (which will remain visible) and on balcony undersides. - Motion: Approved with comments to enhance art and design details. Seconded. Unanimous. - Arlo Midline Wall Sign & Blade Sign (Address: 2217 NW Miami Court; T6-80 Zone) - Agustin Arias (Modulex Miami) presented two signs for the Midline nightclub: a wall sign (6 ft wide x 2 ft? total 12 sq ft) and a projecting blade sign (3 ft x 4 ft, 11 ft above ground). Both use layered aluminum with cutout logo and acrylic backlight (5000K). Design inspired by Wynwood's industrial history. - Committee noted the speakeasy feel and suggested studying light color temperature (5000K may be too bright). Applicant agreed to review. - Motion to approve both applications (first the wall sign, then the blade sign) with a condition to study Kelvin temperature. Both motions seconded. Vote: Unanimous for both approvals. - Frida Kahlo Winwood Residences (Address: 119 NW 29th St; 143,653 sq ft; 8 stories; 244 units; 212 parking spaces; split zone T5/T6 and NRD1/NRD2) - Attorney Andreas Rivero, architect Eric Samuelson (Cube3), and landscape architect Chris Cabezas (Kalda Design) presented a project honoring Frida Kahlo, with a licensing agreement from the Frida Kahlo Corporation. The design features a 12-story tower on 29th St (T6/NRD1, under WDRC purview) and a lower portion on 30th St (T5/NRD2). A large mural of Kahlo’s reinterpreted self-portrait is proposed on the east facade, with a mural along 30th St ground floor. The amenity deck draws inspiration from Kahlo’s garden. - Committee discussion: Concerns about the east mural being blocked by future development on the adjacent corner property (from which development rights were purchased, but no height restriction agreement exists). Members urged focusing art on the 29th St primary facade rather than relying solely on the potentially obstructed east wall. The applicant agreed to explore adding art/color to the 29th St arcade (GFRC columns) and enhance ground-floor art. - Motion to approve with conditions: (1) applicant to enhance art on the 29th St facade, (2) applicant to make best efforts to maintain the east facade mural (no formal covenant required). Motion seconded. Vote: Unanimous for approval with conditions. - Wynwood Vision Plan Update (Discussion Item) - Britney from the Planning Department presented an 8-month vision plan kickoff led by Gensler, aimed at documenting neighborhood history, establishing architectural/public art guidelines, and improving code implementation. A neighborhood walkthrough with stakeholders was conducted. Committee members emphasized the need to address lighting (pole coordination with FPL and city), street furniture, and ensuring that future guidelines prevent poor-quality materials (e.g., fake brick veneer). A public hearing date is expected before August recess. Key Outcomes - Approvals: Apparatus showroom, Pitbull office/recording studio, Arlo wall and blade signs (all unanimously approved). - Disapproval: Amara monument sign (unanimous disapproval on grounds of location and material). - Conditional Approval: Frida Kahlo Winwood Residences (approved with conditions to add art to 29th St facade and maintain east mural). - Next Steps: The applicant for the Amara sign is encouraged to resubmit with a revised location and material. The Wynwood Vision Plan team will continue community engagement and return to WDRC for a dedicated meeting. - Vote tally on Amara: All members voted for disapproval (motion carried unanimously).

The Art and Public Places Board (AIPP) of the City of Miami met on March 9, 2026, to elect officers, consider public art selection for a senior center, amend board appointment procedures, and debate the administration of the public art program, including the handling of major projects like Miami Freedom Park and the City Administration Building. Election of Officers - After discussion, the board re-elected Francisco Juritez as chair for an additional term (beyond the three-consecutive-term limit) by a 7-0 vote. The board acknowledged this was an extension past the limit. Christina Cuevo was nominated but declined to accept the nomination. - Vice Chair Olga Granda was re-elected by a 7-0 vote. Item 5: Public Art at Dr. Mando Madea Senior Center - The board approved the selection of artist Joyce Billet as the finalist for integrating public art at the Dr. Mando Madea Senior Center (25 SW 25th Street, Miami). The artist proposed a site-specific installation titled "Bloom," incorporating laser-cut painted metal and living orchids in partnership with Fairchild Tropical Botanical Gardens. - Three options were presented: (A) a trellis with vertical strips, (B) an orchid wall on the fence/wall, and (C) a portal entryway. ADA and safety concerns were raised about Option C, specifically its impact on wheelchair and walker passage. The artist favored the portals but offered to reduce dimensions and add edge protection. - The board voted 6-1 to approve a compromise: one portal with reduced dimensions and as many trellis strips as possible within the $20,000 budget. Board member Gary Feinberg voted no, expressing preference for Option A. Item 6: Amendment to Chapter 62 – Board Appointments - The board unanimously (7-0) recommended City Commission approval of an ordinance amending Chapter 62 to remove the 30-day newspaper notice requirement for AIPP and HEP board appointments, aligning the process with quarterly appointments. The HEP board would be reconfigured from nine to ten members. The board also directed staff to send written attendance notices to absent member Nelson Delgado and to provide a quarterly attendance report to commissioners. Discussion on Program Administration, Freedom Park, and the City Administration Building - Chair Francisco Juritez introduced a resolution to add a "Program Administration" section to the interim public art master plan, aiming to clarify board involvement in early project stages, budget review, and access to capital project pipelines. - Extended debate centered on the interpretation of Miami 21 Code Article 11 regarding public art obligations for large developments. The chair disputed staff's interpretation that a developer could proffer art in lieu of paying 1.5% into the public art fund for the City Administration Building and that Freedom Park was not subject to the specific payment requirement. The chair requested a formal legal opinion from the City Attorney on the board's powers and the correct application of Article 11. - Staff offered to draft program guidelines for both proffered art and fund-based acquisitions, but the chair argued the issue was one of fundamental legal interpretation, not guidelines. The resolution was deferred to the next meeting by a 7-0 vote, pending the legal opinion. Key Outcomes - Elected officers: Francisco Juritez (chair) and Olga Granda (vice chair) for 2026. - Approved artist: Joyce Billet for Dr. Mando Madea Senior Center with a combined portal/trellis installation (6-1 vote). - Recommended ordinance: Amending Chapter 62 board appointment process (7-0). - Deferred: Resolution on master plan program administration (7-0, to April meeting). - Legal opinion requested: On Miami 21 Article 11 interpretation, especially regarding Miami Freedom Park and the City Administration Building. - Directives: Staff to send written attendance notice to board member Nelson Delgado and compile a quarterly attendance report for commissioners starting March 2026.

The City of Miami Code Enforcement Board convened on March 5, 2026, to address a special matter on remand, several extension of time requests, and numerous code violation cases. The board heard cases involving short-term rentals, work without permits, failure to maintain properties, vacant/abandoned structures, and lack of certificates of use. Decisions included setting aside an irreparable harm fine, granting compliance periods of 3 to 120 days, and imposing per diem fines of $150 to $250. Special Matter – Remand from Appellate Court - Case 00063587, 3005 Washington Street: The board reviewed a remand order from the 11th Judicial Circuit concerning an irreparable harm fine previously assessed for a short-term rental violation. The city recommended setting aside the fine due to insufficient record. The board voted to set aside the irreparable harm fine; the original adjudication of guilty stands, and the property is in compliance. Consent Calendar – Extension of Time - Case 0010501, 3500 North Miami Avenue (page 145): The owner requested 90 days to complete a grease trap update. The board granted 120 days with a $250 per diem fine if not complied. Hearings on Violations - Case 0014359, 4500 Northwest 17th Avenue (page 80): Violation: work without a permit (air conditioning unit). The owner’s attorney initially pleaded not guilty but the board found guilt. Board found guilty, 120 days to comply, $150 per diem. - Case 00147668, 2725 Southwest 19th Street (page 60): Violation: work without permit. Owner pleaded guilty, permit in review. Board granted 120 days, $150 per diem. - Case 00139586, 2148 Northwest 17th Avenue (page 54): Violations: no CU, no BTR, work without permit. Owner pleaded guilty. Board granted 120 days, $250 per diem. - Case 00127567, 8315 Northeast Second Court (page 21): Violation: fence without permit. Owner pleaded guilty. Board granted 120 days, $150 per diem. Board noted senior citizen fee waiver options. - Case 0014659, 7326 Biscayne Boulevard (page 69): Violations: no CU, no BTR, work without permit, historic approval needed. Owner pleaded guilty, lease termination underway. Board granted 120 days, $250 per diem. - Case 00146730, 3129 Southwest Ninth Street (page 8): Violations: no CU, no BTR, trash, fence permit. Owner pleaded guilty. Board granted 120 days, $250 per diem. - Case 00145905, 2195 Northwest 27th Avenue (page 128): Violations: no CU, no BTR, work without permit (carport, fence). Owner absent, heard in absentia. Board found guilty, 120 days, $250 per diem. - Case 00132867, 645 Northeast 82nd Terrace (page 28): Violations: work without permit (awning, wooden stairs). Owner pleaded guilty, permit in inspection phase. Board granted 120 days, $150 per diem. - Case 00108180, 1025 Southwest 23rd Avenue (page 5): Violation: tree removal without permit. Owner pleaded guilty, explained they planted replacement trees. Board granted 120 days, $150 per diem. - Case 00127886, 332 Northwest 34th Street (page 41): Violation: work without permit (windows, doors, fence). Owner pleaded guilty, permit in corrections. Board granted 120 days, $250 per diem (non-homestead). - Case 00143161, 655 Northeast 83rd Lane (page 11): Violations: no CU, no BTR, work without permit (metal tent). Owner absent. Board found guilty, 3 days to comply, $250 per diem. - Case 00143160, 611 Northeast 83rd Lane (page 16): Same owner, same violations. Board found guilty, 3 days, $250 per diem. - Case 00146451, 8450 East Dixie Highway (page 19): Violation: tree removal without permit, no appeal. Board found guilty, 3 days, $250 per diem. - Case 00148249, 1014 Northeast 84th Street (page 25): Violations: failure to register vacant structure, failure to maintain. Owner partially complied but not registered. Board found guilty, 3 days, $250 per diem. - Case 00148236, 1080 Northeast 83rd Street (page 32): Violations: vacant, blighted, unsecured. Owner registered but still blighted. Board found guilty, 3 days, $250 per diem. - Case 00122805, 800 Northeast 85th Street (page 46): Violations: no CU, no BTR, illegal remodeling. Owner absent. Board found guilty, 3 days, $250 per diem. - Case 0012894, 57 Northeast 75th Street (page 62): Violation: failure to maintain lot. Owner absent. Board found guilty, 3 days, $250 per diem. - Case 00137540, 1942 Northwest 30th Street (page 66): Violations: failure to maintain lot, failure to register lot. Owner absent. Board found guilty, 3 days, $250 per diem. - Case 00137982, 3138 Northwest 22nd Avenue (page 83): Violations: no CU, no BTR (apartment building). Owner absent. Board found guilty, 3 days, $250 per diem. - Case 00150105, 4141 North Miami Avenue (page 86): Violation: graffiti. Owner absent. Board found guilty, 3 days, $250 per diem. - Case 00114344, 8246 Northeast Second Court (page 91): Violations: work without permit (windows, doors, driveway, fence). Owner partially complied (driveway permit). Board found guilty, 3 days, $150 per diem (homestead). - Case 00142971, 2286 Northwest 35th Street (page 133): Violations: failure to maintain property, work without permit, landscaping. Owner absent. Board found guilty, 3 days, $250 per diem. Key Outcomes - The board set aside an irreparable harm fine on remand from the appellate court. - Numerous properties were found guilty of code violations, with compliance deadlines ranging from 3 to 120 days and per diem fines of $150 to $250 depending on property type. - Several cases were heard in absentia due to owner failure to appear. - The board emphasized the process for requesting extensions of time before deadlines expire. - One case (1157 Northwest First Street) was reset due to a change in ownership, to be re-noticed.

This meeting of the Planning, Zoning and Appeals Board included consideration of several zoning applications, including exceptions, waivers, a variance, and a vacation of a public alley. Key decisions involved approvals with conditions for an alcohol service establishment at 5600 Biscayne Boulevard, a parking reduction and exception for 7101 Biscayne Boulevard, and a variance for a single-family residence. One item (vacation of a public alley) was deferred to allow further negotiation. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: The board unanimously approved the minutes from October 15, 2025. - Deferrals: - Item 1 (1401-1405 SW 17th Avenue, appeal of a CU revocation) was deferred indefinitely with a date certain of September 2, 2026. Motion passed unanimously. - Items 2 and 3 were deferred together to April 1, 2026. Motion passed unanimously. - Item PZ5 (related to a prior agenda?) requested deferral to April 15, 2026 and was granted. Public Comments & Testimony - Item 4 – 5600 Biscayne Blvd (Burgers & Shakespeare LLC): - Bob Powers, President of the MIMO Biscayne Association, expressed full support for the project, noting that parking concerns were addressed by available parking across the street. He also highlighted the historic significance of the former General Tire store building. - Elisa Cepeda, a neighborhood resident, also voiced support, stating the applicant worked closely with the community and the project fits within the MIMO historic district. - Item 5 – Vacation of Public Alley (North Miami Ave): - Lorena Romels, chairperson of the Benevisa Stakeholders, spoke in strong opposition, arguing closure would redirect cut-through traffic into the residential neighborhood, exacerbating existing traffic issues from the Design District. - Ulysses Kemp, president of the Buenavista Heights Neighborhood Association, also opposed, citing heavy use of the alley for parking, dog walking, and safe egress from homes. He noted traffic congestion on 40th and 41st Streets. - Several other residents (Cassandra Romels, Howard Anderson, Saint George, and a Spanish-speaking resident) echoed opposition, emphasizing the alley's importance for daily activities and safety. - Item 7 – 7101 Biscayne Blvd (Parking Exception and Waiver): - Bob Powers and Elisa Cepeda (MIMO) opposed the 10% parking reduction (from 23 to 21 spaces), arguing the project’s expansion (from a one-story office to a four-story mixed-use with apartments, medical spa, and cafe) would exacerbate already severe parking shortages in the area. They noted that the neighborhood was promised no parking reduction during the HEP board review. - A written public comment from Jackson Green (611 NE 71st Street) requested acoustic and visual mitigation for the proposed mechanical parking lifts adjacent to his property. - Item 4 – 155 NW 17th St (Variance): No public comments. Discussion Items - Item 4 – 5600 Biscayne Blvd (Exception, Warrant, Waiver): The applicant, Burgers & Shakespeare LLC (represented by Ian Bochekov), requested an exception to allow an alcohol service establishment, a warrant for outdoor dining, and a waiver for a non-conforming site improvement within the MIMO Historic District. The project involves reactivating a former service station building, adding a bar area, and expanding seating. Staff recommended approval with conditions. The applicant accepted all conditions. Board discussion clarified parking (five existing spaces maintained) and outdoor seating layout. Motion to approve with staff conditions passed 8-0. - Item 5 – Vacation of Public Alley: The applicant (represented by Irisa Scar) sought to vacate a 15-foot wide public alley to allow future redevelopment of eight lots. Staff recommended approval with conditions. In response to strong neighbor opposition, the applicant proposed a compromise: keeping the alley open at grade but allowing construction above 25 feet (like an archway). The board tabled the item to allow the applicant and neighbors to discuss this alternative. A deferral to April 15, 2026 was later requested and granted. - Item 7 – 7101 Biscayne Blvd (Exception and Parking Waiver): The applicant requested an exception to continue using an existing parking lot in the T3L zone and a waiver to reduce required parking by 10% (from 23 to 21 spaces). The project includes expansion of a historic medical office building, adding apartments and commercial space. Staff recommended approval with conditions. Extensive board debate centered on whether the parking reduction was appropriate given the project’s increased density and the neighborhood’s parking constraints. Some board members supported the reduction to avoid delaying the project, while others felt it set a bad precedent. The motion to approve as recommended by staff passed 6-2 (Chair Adam Gerston and one other opposed). - Item 4 (second) – 155 NW 17th St (Variance): A variance was requested to reduce the required rear roof enclosure setback from 10 feet to zero feet for a single-family residence on a substandard lot in the T3O zone. The architect noted a recent code change necessitated the variance. Staff found all seven criteria met. No public comments. Approved unanimously. Key Outcomes - Item 4 – 5600 Biscayne Blvd: Approved 8-0 with staff conditions. Decision final unless appealed within 15 days. - Item 5 – Vacation of Public Alley: Deferred to April 15, 2026, to allow applicant and neighborhood to negotiate a compromise (keeping alley open with overhead clearance). - Item 7 – 7101 Biscayne Blvd: Approved 6-2 with staff conditions, including compliance with HEP resolution 23-004. Decision final unless appealed within 15 days. - Item 4 (155 NW 17th St): Variance approved unanimously. Decision final unless appealed within 15 days. - Other: Deferrals for items 1, 2, 3, and PZ5 were granted as noted.

The Historic and Environmental Preservation Board (HEP) met on March 3, 2026, to consider two agenda items: a final historic designation and a special certificate of approval for tree removal and new construction in an Environmental Preservation District. The board also received staff updates and discussed post-construction compliance procedures. Public Comments & Testimony - Jesse Capote (3965 Leafy Way, adjacent to the applicant): Stated that for him the key issues were preserving canopy and addressing flooding concerns. He commended the applicant for continuing to revise the plan but deferred to the board’s expertise on whether the revised proposal adequately preserves canopy. - Alison O’Keefe (3975 Leafy Way, two lots away): Expressed concern that the size of the house and hardscape would push trees to the perimeter, potentially undermining the canopy feel of Leafy Way. - Chris Cole (3782 Leafy Way): Supported the project, stating that the applicant had worked hard to comply and that he believes in property rights and equal application of the law. He noted that some neighbors criticizing the project do not have large canopies themselves. - Lauren Cole (3782 Leafy Way): Supported the project, stating she believes the applicant will contribute to the street and should be treated equally to others who have built homes on the street. - Dr. Chris Baralotto (3752 Kumquat Ave, Director of FIU’s International Botany Center): Stated that he disagrees with the city staff’s position and that the revised plan improves canopy based on data. He emphasized that the trees being removed are non-native palms and that the mitigation plan overcompensates. He urged that data be the standard for decision-making. Discussion Items - Monthly Staff Updates: Staff reported working with HR to fill two open positions, announced a new staff member (Gabriella) to assist with guidelines and master plans, and noted that the grants program application period has closed; income verification is underway with the housing department. - Item 2 – Final Historic Designation (128 NE 1st Ave, File ID 18865): Staff recommended approval under criteria 1, 3, and 4. The applicant (Raphael Hillis, representing Rosa Amalia LLC) stated they intend to restore the building’s historic features. No public comments. Board voted 7-0 to approve the designation. - Item 1 – Special Certificate of Approval for Tree Removal and New Construction at 3939 Leafy Way (File ID 17355): The applicant’s attorney, Carlos Diaz, presented a revised plan preserving 90% of trees (42 trees maintained), increasing canopy from 11,092 to 11,642 sq. ft., and eliminating the mitigation deficit (reduced from 30 to zero). The house was redesigned around a mature live oak. Staff recommended denial based on the removal of a significant tree cluster that defines the Environmental Preservation District. The board discussed the building’s proximity to the live oak, the condition of trees, and the applicant’s community engagement. Board member Robert Powers moved to approve with a condition to replace the two proposed live oaks in the front with a less invasive native species, to be determined by Environmental Resources. The motion passed 7-1, with Vice Chair Luis Prieto Munoz voting no. - Post-Compliance Inspection Discussion: Board members raised concerns about final inspections ensuring projects match approved plans. Member Hugh Ryan suggested requiring a professional report with photographs for sign-off. Chair William Hopper proposed that staff investigate what code amendments would be needed to enshrine such a requirement, and the board could then pass a resolution to the City Commission. Staff agreed to research and report back. - Annual Report: Chair Hopper noted the annual report is scheduled for a City Commission hearing on March 14, 2026, and he intends to present it during public comment. Key Outcomes - Item 2: Approved unanimously (7-0) to designate 128 NE 1st Ave as a historic resource. - Item 1: Approved as amended (7-1) for a special certificate of approval at 3939 Leafy Way, with a condition to replace the front live oaks with a native, non-invasive species (to be confirmed by Environmental Resources). The decision is final unless appealed within 15 days. - Inspection Policy: Staff will explore procedural changes to add a final compliance inspection or documentation requirement for HEP-approved projects, with a potential resolution from the board to the City Commission. - Next Meeting: The board will reconvene in April 2026.

The Civil Service Board convened on March 3, 2026, at City Hall. The meeting began with the Pledge of Allegiance and adoption of the agenda, with an added item from District Office 4. The board approved consent calendar items, heard from a representative of Commissioner Rosado, discussed rescheduling the April 28 meeting, and noted the withdrawal of two hearings. Consent Calendar - C1: John Romero, police officer, requests reemployment following military leave. Approved by motion (Jimenez, Lanier). - C2: Joaquin A. Ferrer, commander, requests active duty training without pay from February 10–15, 2026. Approved by motion (Denir, Jimenez). - C3: Alejandro Cuervo, fire captain, requests military leave without pay for 400 days from January 24, 2026. Approved by motion (Lanier, Jimenez). Public Comments & Testimony - Christian Molina, Deputy Chief of Staff for Commissioner Rosado, addressed the board regarding the whistleblower item previously forwarded to the commission. He expressed the commissioner's commitment to collaborating with the board to clarify differences between the board's proposal and existing city policies and to improve the item. Discussion Items - F1 – Hearings Pending List and Meeting Rescheduling: The board discussed a request to cancel the April 28, 2026 meeting due to a conflict at City Hall. Proposed alternate dates were April 21 and May 5. The city's legal team was available on both dates. The board considered the feasibility of moving the two hearings currently scheduled for April 28 to one of the alternate dates. After discussion, a motion was made and seconded to cancel the April 28 meeting and reschedule it to May 5. The motion passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - The agenda was adopted with the addition of the District 4 item. - All three consent calendar items were approved. - The grievance hearing for Weslein Louis Francois (H1) was withdrawn and resolved. - The appeal hearing for Michelle St. Ford (H2) was withdrawn via email from her attorney. - The board voted to cancel the April 28, 2026 meeting and reschedule it to May 5, 2026. The next regular meeting is scheduled for March 17, 2026. - Meeting adjourned.

A special magistrate hearing was held on March 2, 2026, to address code enforcement violations, time extension requests, and initial adjudications for properties in Miami, Florida. The magistrate presided over numerous cases, granting extensions and entering findings of guilt. A procedural dispute arose between the magistrate and the city attorney regarding the order of proceedings during plea entry. Consent Calendar - Time Extension Requests (unanimous, no objection): - Case 00138-325 (3454 NW 4th St): 120 days extension granted. - Case 00100-901 (3899 Bird Road): 60 days extension granted. - Case 00046-037 (5920 NW 5th Ave): 120 days extension granted. - Case 00093-664 (1405 NW 21st Ter): 120 days extension granted. - Case 00088-08 (886 NW 25th Ave): 120 days extension granted. - Case 00126-832 (909 SW 15th Ave): 120 days extension granted. - Case 00112-14 (3510 Biscayne Blvd): 90 days extension granted. - Case 00135-718 (1376 SW 36th Ave): 120 days extension granted. - Case 00026-061 (2260 NW North River Dr): 120 days extension granted. - Case 00107-320 (3421 Fro Ave): 120 days extension granted. - Case 00071-292 (3157 SW 24th Ter): 120 days extension granted. - Case 00121-024 (6731 SW 7th St): 90 days extension granted. - Case 00084-94 (321 SW 21st Rd): 120 days extension granted. - Case 00127-65 (3675 SW 9th Ter): 90 days extension granted (city recommended 90 due to no permit application). - Case 00112-598 (634 SW 63rd Ave): 120 days extension granted. - Case 00126-962 (183 NE 50th St): 120 days extension granted. - Case 00098-209 (467 NE 58th St): 120 days extension granted. - Case 00121-218 (1774 NW 20th St): 120 days extension granted. - Case 00044-814 (2702 NW 23rd Ave): 180 days extension granted. - Case 00076-442 (1429 SW 3rd St): 90 days extension granted. - Case 00134-51 (1375 NW 50th St): 120 days extension granted. - Case 00126-907 (62 NW 34th St): Adjudication entered, 120 days to comply, $250/day fine thereafter. - Case 00120-435 (1331 NW 25th St): Adjudication entered, 180 days to comply, $250/day fine thereafter. - Case 00129-459 (177 NW 32nd St): Adjudication entered, 180 days to comply, $250/day fine thereafter. - Case 00122-821 (6840 SW 1st St): Adjudication entered on two violations, 150 days to comply, $250/day fine thereafter. - Case 00121-05 (250 NW 33rd St): Two absentia hearings – adjudication entered, 3 days to comply, $250/day fine thereafter. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made during the hearing. Discussion Items - Procedural Disagreement: During the first adjudication case (Case 00120-435), the magistrate and city attorney disputed the order of proceedings. The magistrate preferred to have the inspector explain the violation before the respondent entered a plea, while the city attorney stated the city's procedure requires the plea first, then the inspector's colloquy. The magistrate expressed concern about due process, but ultimately followed the city's procedure for subsequent cases. The disagreement was resolved by having the inspector provide a brief explanation before the plea, but the formal colloquy after the plea. - Contested Hearing (Case 00122-821): The respondent initially pleaded not guilty to an illegal unit violation, claiming insufficient information. The magistrate allowed the inspector to explain the violation, after which the respondent pleaded guilty to all violations. The hearing proceeded with the city presenting evidence (photos, permits, postings). The respondent objected to photos, questioning how they were obtained. The magistrate overruled the objection after the inspector testified that access was granted by tenants. The magistrate found the respondent guilty and ordered 150 days to comply. Key Outcomes - Total Cases Heard: 25 cases were addressed, including 22 time extension requests and 3 initial adjudications (one of which involved a contested hearing). - Time Extensions: All extension requests were granted, with durations ranging from 60 to 180 days, typically 120 days. - Adjudications: Three properties were adjudicated in violation. Fines were set at $250 per day for non-compliance after the compliance period. - Absentia Hearings: Two cases for the same property (250 NW 33rd St) were heard in absentia; the respondent failed to appear. The magistrate found violations and ordered compliance within 3 days, with $250/day fines thereafter. - Procedural Note: The magistrate established that respondents would be informed of alleged violations before entering a plea, and the city's inspector would provide a brief explanation before the plea, with full colloquy after. This practice was adopted for future hearings.

The City of Miami Climate Resilience Committee (CRC) met on March 2, 2026, with a full dais. The meeting featured presentations on special event sustainability and electric vehicle (EV) parking legislation, elections for chair and vice chair, and discussions on tree canopy data and a private property adaptation program. Several motions were passed, and workshops were scheduled. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: The CRC minutes from January 13, 2026, were approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Ian Wogan (2360 Overbrook, District 2), an arborist, spoke in support of stronger tree ordinances and green infrastructure for cooling, beautification, and resilience, urging the city to serve as a global example. - Tom Klein, Director of the Center for Urban and Community Design at the University of Miami, announced the Resilient 365 Conference during Miami Climate Week (March 17-18) and invited the committee to attend. - Stephen Leitner (1130 102nd Street, Bay Harbor Island) opposed the proposed Miami-Dade County incinerator, citing rising costs (from $1.9B to $2.3B, and per-ton cost from $45 to $105) and CO₂ emissions. He urged the CRC to pass a resolution against the incinerator and in support of alternative solutions. - Kim Dupromadinier, founder of Meridian, recommended Silvio as chair of the CRC, citing his passion for citizen science and tree initiatives. She also highlighted her work on high-performance homes and encouraged the CRC to engage with the county's ADU ordinance. - A resident (name not stated) read a poem urging nature-based solutions, transparency, and equitable tree canopy investment. Discussion Items Presentation: Special Event Sustainability Vivian Belzaguy Hunter (Ascendance Sustainable Events) presented on Ultra Music Festival's award-winning sustainability program (Mission Home), which achieved 91% elimination of single-use plastics, diverted nearly 400,000 pounds of waste, and donated 84,000 pounds of food. She recommended city actions such as organizer education, data collection, an acknowledgement program, and a vendor capacity-building program. Committee members discussed potential resolutions and agreed to hold a workshop on March 9, 2026, to draft recommendations. Presentation: EV Parking Legislation Catherine Engleton (Planning Department) presented a text amendment to Miami 21 zoning code to offer parking reductions for EV-ready spaces with level 2 chargers. The amendment was revised after PZAB and elected officials to limit reductions to Transit-Oriented Development areas and require 100% of credited spaces to have chargers. Discussion centered on equitable distribution of chargers, charger reliability, and public accessibility. A motion was passed to support the legislation with recommendations for a unified real-time charger monitoring platform and maintenance reporting. Elections: Chair and Vice Chair - Chair: Aaron DeMeo was re-elected with 7 votes in favor and 1 abstention. Silvio had initially self-nominated but withdrew. - Vice Chair: Sarahi Press was elected with 6 votes over Silvio (who received 2 votes, with some abstentions). Sarahi had been serving as vice chair after a mid-term vacancy. ORS Update (Office of Resilience & Sustainability) - SAFE Program: A pilot program (Stormproof Assistance and Value Enhancements) approved in February 2026 offers 50% reduction on building permit fees for qualifying residential stormproofing and energy efficiency upgrades. It runs through February 2027. - Eco Block Party: Announced for March 15, 2026 (2-4 p.m. at World Center) to kick off Miami Climate Week. Save Our City Private Property Adaptation Program Barbara Biznault reported on the City of Miami Beach's Fight the Flood program (up to $20,000 in reimbursement grants). The committee agreed to hold a workshop on March 13, 2026, to discuss adapting a similar program for Miami, including potential grant funding, consulting services, and integration with existing programs. CRC Approach to Trees Discussion on tree canopy and net impact data. After public comment from Albert Gomez (who reported illegal removal of two legacy trees in District 3 and requested data), the committee passed a motion to request from city staff: total number of tree removal permits submitted and approved since the Million Trees Miami program began, broken down by district; also initiation of survivability tracking for distributed trees. A larger workshop on tree policy is planned for April 2026. Key Outcomes - Minutes approved (January 13, 2026). - EV parking legislation – Motion passed (6 in favor, 2 abstentions) to support the amendment with a recommendation for a unified public charger monitoring platform and maintenance reporting. - Chair elected: Aaron DeMeo (7-1). - Vice Chair elected: Sarahi Press (6-2). - Workshops scheduled: - March 9, 2026, 12 p.m. at MRC: Special event sustainability resolution draft. - March 13, 2026, 12 p.m. at MRC: Save Our City adaptation program. - April 2026 (date to be set): Tree canopy policy and workshop. - Tree data request – Motion passed to request comprehensive tree removal permit data and survivability tracking from city staff. - Future agenda items noted: Wedge (Waterfront Edge Design Guidelines) presentation; water conservation discussion.

The City of Miami Commission met on February 26, 2026, beginning at approximately 12:30 PM (following a morning session that started at 9:15 AM for public comment). The meeting included routine approvals, several public hearings, a re-hearing of a settlement vote, and multiple planning and zoning items. Key topics included the relocation of city elections to even-numbered years, a contested street vacation, a racial discrimination settlement involving the police chief, and a succession plan for the police chief. The commission also went into a private attorney-client session (shade meeting) to discuss pending litigation in the Fuller case. Consent Calendar - CA1–CA5: Passed unanimously without discussion. - PH1–PH2: Public hearings passed unanimously. - RE1, RE3, RE4, RE5, RE7: Passed unanimously as part of the regular agenda. Public Comments & Testimony - PZ1 (Street Vacation): Elvis Cruz, Maria Lopez, Marie Eggens, and Deborah Sander opposed the vacation of NE 64th Terrace, citing excessive building size, traffic concerns, and lack of transparency. They noted that a January 28 community meeting had 40 votes to keep the street open versus 4 to close it. Deborah Sander questioned the value of the street and the fluctuating community benefit ($200,000 to $500,000 to $1 million). - PZ7 (Affordable Housing on Church Properties): Elisa Margulis, Henrietta Schwarz, and others opposed the item, arguing it would allow oversized buildings and exploitation in the Coconut Grove historic district. Henrietta Schwarz thanked Commissioner Rosado for promising to exclude Coconut Grove NCDs. - RE2 (Election Date Change): Orin Rosenthal (Supervisor of Elections) supported moving city elections to August/November but opposed separating the mayor's race from commission races. Rob Piper, Anna Sofia Pelees, and others urged comprehensive charter reform (Stronger Miami petition, 20,000 signatures). Several speakers (Gina Romero, Antonia Catalan, Gabriela Ibera, Haina Pantoja) supported the Stronger Miami package. - RE6 (Settlement with Chief Morales): Billy Corbin criticized the city attorney's office and urged against settling, claiming the city has lost similar lawsuits. Christy Garcia and Jose Valdez (family of Evelyn Valdez, killed by police gunfire) spoke on DI1, demanding transparency and accountability. - FR3 (Interfaith Council): Pastor Thompson supported the creation of an interfaith advisory council, but criticized the mayor's recent staff changes as tone-deaf. Discussion Items - RE2 – Election Date Change: Mayor Higgins proposed moving mayoral elections to even-numbered years (August primary, November general) to save money and increase turnout. Commissioner Pardo argued for a November primary (higher turnout). Commissioner Gabela questioned the need for more commissioners. The item was deferred to April 9, 2026, to allow further discussion. - RE6 – Settlement with Chief Morales (Racial Discrimination Lawsuit): The item was re-considered after failing at the previous meeting. The city attorney advised that settling for $400,000 would save taxpayer money (litigation costs could exceed $1.2 million). Commissioner Rosado opposed, citing depositions alleging discrimination. Commissioner Gabela and Escalona initially supported settlement as a business decision but later voted with Rosado to reject. A motion to reconsider and settle was made by Chair King, seconded by Escalona, but failed 4-1 (only King in favor). The item was marked as “discussed” with no vote. - DI1 – Police Chief Succession Plan: Commissioner Rosado raised the item. City Manager confirmed that a new police chief will be appointed before the three-month transition period preceding Chief Morales’ retirement in October 2026. The search will begin before July. - PZ1 – Street Vacation (NE 64th Terrace): Commissioner King explained that the street is held in trust for the developer (not city-owned). She clarified that the developer will provide a $1 million community benefit and additional parking. Despite public opposition, the commission voted unanimously to approve the vacation. - PZ8 – Appeal of Historic Preservation Board Roof Requirement: The city appealed a condition requiring clay tile roofs on an affordable housing project in Palm Grove. The commission voted unanimously to grant the appeal, allowing shingle roofs to reduce costs. - FR1 – Whistleblower Complaint Ordinance: Deferred indefinitely to allow discussion with the Civil Service Board about redundancy. - FR2 – Unsolicited Proposals: Passed unanimously with a substitution requiring notification to the district commissioner. - FR3 – Interfaith Advisory Council: Passed unanimously. - PZ5 – Auto-Related Commercial Regulations: Passed with amendments. - PZ7 – Affordable Housing on Church Properties: Deferred to April 9, 2026, with direction to exclude Coconut Grove NCDs and to consider a fixed fee percentage. - PZ2, PZ3, PZ4, PZ6: Deferred or withdrawn as noted by the city manager. - Shade Meeting (Fuller Litigation): The commission held a private attorney-client session to discuss settlement strategies in the Fuller case (Case No. 23-CV-24251-FAM). The meeting reconvened after approximately one hour, with no public action taken. Key Outcomes - RE2 (Election Date): Deferred to April 9, 2026, for further debate on whether to use August or November primaries and whether to keep mayor and commission elections together. - RE6 (Settlement with Chief Morales): Motion to settle failed 4-1. The case will proceed to trial. City attorney warned of potential costs exceeding $1.2 million. - PZ1 (Street Vacation): Approved unanimously. The developer will provide $1 million for community traffic mitigation and parking improvements. - PZ8 (Roof Appeal): Appeal granted unanimously; shingle roof permitted on affordable housing project. - FR1 (Whistleblower): Deferred indefinitely. - FR2, FR3: Passed unanimously. - PZ5: Passed with amendments. - PZ7: Deferred to April 9, 2026. - DI1 (Police Chief Succession): City manager will appoint a new chief before July 2026, with a three-month transition before Chief Morales’ retirement. - Consent Calendar, Public Hearings, and other regular items: All passed unanimously. - Shade Meeting: Concluded with no public announcement of settlement or action.