Public Meetings - Miami, Florida

The Virginia Key Beach Park Trust met on October 22, 2026, to approve the minutes from the previous meeting and to consider a resolution appointing Nancy Nevis as acting executive director. The meeting was brief, with no public comments. Both agenda items were approved unanimously. Discussion Items - Approval of Minutes: The trust voted to approve the minutes of the regular meeting held on October 8, 2026. - Appointment of Acting Executive Director: The trust considered a resolution appointing Nancy Nevis as acting executive director of the trust, subject to city commission approval. The resolution fixed her compensation at her current salary of $97,300 as finance coordinator, with any future increases subject to trust approval after a performance evaluation. The appointment would terminate upon the appointment of a permanent executive director or her earlier removal, after which she would return to her position as finance coordinator, provided she had not been previously removed. Key Outcomes - The motion to approve both the minutes and the resolution passed unanimously. - Nancy Nevis was appointed as acting executive director, pending city commission approval.

The Miami City Commission held its regular meeting on October 22, 2026, covering a broad agenda of proclamations, legislative items, and public hearings. Key topics included animal welfare ordinances, a micromobility regulation, land use changes in Little Havana, and a contested tree removal appeal for Morningside Park. The meeting also featured multiple public recognitions and testimony from residents on a wide range of city issues. Several items were deferred to the November 19, 2026 meeting. Recognitions and Proclamations - Officer Rafael Barrientos: Recognized for his service at Dr. Charles R. Drew K-8 Center (Miami-Dade Schools Police Department). - Historic Black Police Museum: Terrence and the board were recognized for preserving Miami's police history. - Breast Cancer Awareness Month: A proclamation was made to the American Cancer Society. Commissioner King noted a $500,000 allocation to La Liga Contra el Cancer for screenings. Commissioners encouraged participation in the October 24 walk at Lone Depot Park. - Latino Art Beat: Seven students were recognized for artistic achievements. President Don Rosi Nuccio noted the organization has provided over $1.5 million in scholarships locally. Consent Agenda - The consent agenda, including routine approvals and settlements, was adopted unanimously. Item CA3 was amended on the floor to correct the case name. Public Comments & Testimony - Micromobility (SR3): Matthew Galtanoff (BPAC Chair) requested the rule limiting riding to streets posted at 30 mph only apply to city-controlled roads and asked for an exception for children under 16 accompanied by a parent or guardian. Marcos Lorido (BNA) supported the intent but urged a clear prohibition on e-bikes and scooters on sidewalks in dense areas. - Animal Welfare (FR4, FR5, FR6): Multiple speakers (Vanessa Conde, Yolanda Berkowitz, Renee Rivelli Bleemer) expressed support for harsher penalties but stressed the need for clear enforcement authority, confiscation protocols, and coordination with Miami-Dade Animal Services before new ordinances take effect. - Little Havana Upzoning (PZ14): Elvis Cruz opposed the rezoning, stating Miami is already zoned for eight times the 2010 population and urging a downzone. Frank Halpern supported the upzoning, arguing it provides flood protection and discourages development concentration east of I-95. - Budget and Referendums: Billy Corbin strongly opposed the city budget increases and a proposed $1 billion general obligation bond referendum, accusing the administration of fiscal mismanagement. - Tree Policy: Lindsay Kane disputed a prior statement by Commissioner Pardo regarding a tree removal appeal not being filed, providing documentation to the commission. - Other: Residents spoke in support of RE5 (philanthropic fund), the Freebie mobility program, Palm Grove design guidelines, Venture Miami expansion, and continued support for the Alapara Community Action senior center. Appeals: Morningside Park Tree Removal (PZ20) - Appellant: Elvis Cruz appealed the intended decision to remove 16 trees (including 4 monkey pod trees he donated and planted) during the Morningside Park Shoreline Project. He alleged the contractor misidentified species, flooded the area with saltwater, and reneged on promises to replant the same species. He offered to replant and maintain the trees at his own expense and requested a refund of his $907 appeal fee. - City Position: Landscape architect Aida Curtis defended the removal as necessary for public safety (fire hazard from a downed power line on a Java plum) and compliance with the Resilient 305 strategy, which mandates native coastal species. She stated the city will plant a minimum of 96 replacement trees and disputed that Mr. Cruz had city permission to plant the original monkey pods. - Outcome: The Commission voted unanimously to grant Mr. Cruz standing but denied the appeal on its merits, siding with the professional recommendations of city staff and engineers. Discussion Items / Resolutions & Ordinances - District 2 Donation Fund (RE5): Passed unanimously. Establishes a donor-advised fund with the Miami Foundation to accept private philanthropic contributions for public projects in District 2. - MPA Pay-by-Phone Notification (RE8): Passed unanimously. Requires the Miami Parking Authority to notify the commission at least 7 days before installing pay-by-phone meters in residential areas. - Animal Welfare Ordinances (FR4, FR5, FR6): To resolve duplication, FR5 (Commissioner Rosado) was withdrawn. FR6 (Commissioner King) passed on first reading focusing on leash requirements for pets in public parks. FR4 (Commissioner Pardo) was amended to incorporate FR5's enhanced penalties and passed unanimously on first reading. All commissioners co-sponsored the blended item. - Micromobility Ordinance (SR3): Passed on second reading as amended. - Parking Reduction Fees (PZ4): Amended to direct funds from reduced parking fees into specific neighborhood parking trust funds. Passed. - Little Havana/Allapata Zoning (PZ14, PZ16, PZ17, PZ18): Approved on first reading. - Directive: The Mayor directed procurement to issue an IFQ for grinding services within the landscaping pool to assist Public Works. Key Outcomes & Votes - Passed Unanimously: Consent Agenda, RE5, RE8, FR4 (as amended), FR6, SR3, PZ1-4, PZ6-7, PZ14, PZ16-18, BC1, BC2, Pocket Item (contingent on Virginia Key Beach Park Trust approval). - Denied Unanimously: PZ20 (Morningside Park tree appeal). - Withdrawn: RE9, FR2, FR5, DI2, PZ10, PZ11, PZ15, PZ19. - Deferred: Multiple items deferred to the November 19, 2026 meeting, including RE6, RE10, DI1, CA2, SR1, PZ5, PZ8, PZ9, PZ12, PZ13. - Appointments: Jason Menowitz (Code Enforcement Award Board), Rizer Fernandez (Tree Ordinance Advisory Committee), Nancy Nieves (Acting Executive Director, Virginia Key Beach Park Trust). - Future Sessions: Attorney-client sessions were noticed for November 19, 2026, to discuss pending litigation.

The Miami Urban Development Review Board (UDRB) convened on October 21, 2026. The board considered two major development applications, reviewed the city's waterfront connectivity report, and received an update on the Live Local Act. Consent Calendar & Routine Approvals - A quorum was established. Absence waivers for Chair Labrata and Member Barrera were approved (4-0). - No online public comments were received. - The minutes from the September 16, 2026 meeting were approved (4-0). Agenda Item: 1836 Biscayne Boulevard (1836 Residences) Project Description: A Special Certificate of Appropriateness request for a 42-story, 406-unit residential tower incorporating the restoration of the historic church on site. The applicant (represented by Carlos Diaz, Bernardo For Brescia, and Richard Heisenbottle) reduced the required code waivers from 16 to 9 and increased open space from 13% to 26%. Discussion: Board members praised the preservation of the church facade. Member Garlardo criticized the "vertical blocks" on the podium as harsh and out of proportion with the historic structure. Member Behar regretted the loss of the church's interior dome, questioned the "cool gray" color palette, and requested warm tones and shade trees. Outcome: Approved (3-1). The motion included a condition to review the podium's color palette and a recommendation to add shade trees. Member Garlardo voted against, preferring the podium redesign be mandatory. Agenda Item: 6001 NE 2nd Avenue (Magic City Residences) Project Description: Approval for two towers (parcels 13 and 15, 553 total units) within the Magic City / Little Haiti Innovation District Special Area Plan (SAP). The project emphasizes ground-floor retail along a grand promenade and steps down in height towards NE 2nd Avenue. Discussion: Members discussed the delivery of the promenade, a long interior corridor, and the use of artificial green screening. Member Pramui requested subtle breaks in the corridor. Member Perez Azua requested removing the artificial facade planting, noting it is against city code. The developer confirmed the adjacent section of the promenade will be built concurrently. Outcome: Approved (4-0) with conditions: 1) Break up the long corridor on level A110, 2) Remove artificial green facade screening, and 3) Build the adjacent promenade to full width. Discussion Item: Waterfront Connectivity Report Presentation: Principal Planner Andrea Sandoval presented the report, a benchmark study since Miami 21 (2009). Key Statistics: 2.75 miles completed following Miami 21 standards. 1 mile in the pipeline. 12% of disconnected gaps are on city-owned land, creating grant opportunities. Board Action: The board unanimously supported the study and recommended it proceed to the City Commission. Discussion Item: Live Local Act Update Presentation: Staff provided an update on the state law and its local impact. Key Statistics: 93 projects submitted, proposing over 20,000 dwelling units (11,000 income-restricted). Board Feedback: The board requested quarterly updates on the act's impact, specifically regarding traffic and congestion near transit corridors where parking reductions are permitted. Key Outcomes - 1836 Residences: Approved (3-1) with 1 condition and 1 recommendation. - Magic City Residences: Approved (4-0) with 3 conditions. - Waterfront Connectivity Report: Recommended to the City Commission with full board support. - Live Local Act: Quarterly updates to be provided to the board.

The Planning, Zoning and Appeals Board (PZAB) met on October 21, 2026, to consider an appeal of a Temporary Occupancy Permit (TOP) for construction parking, a future land use map amendment and rezoning for the Northwest 36th Court area, amendments to off-street parking standards, and a zoning change to allow co-living near colleges and universities. The meeting opened with recognition of Miami Fire Rescue for their earthquake relief work in Venezuela and for providing security at the FIFA World Cup FanFest, which drew nearly 600,000 visitors. Public Comments & Testimony - TOP Appeal (PZAB3): Numerous residents and members of "Preserve the West Grove" spoke in opposition to the parking lot on historic Charles Avenue. Arguments included: the location is in a historically African‑American neighborhood (Village West) that has long been subjected to unwanted development; the lot would be adjacent to three already‑strained sites (Stirrup House Bed & Breakfast, the Coconut Grove Playhouse construction, and the future Grove Inn); a restrictive covenant on the property prohibits above‑ground parking; and the use of a TOP for off‑site construction parking is inconsistent with the city code’s circular references and the Miami 21 zoning. The applicant (Ransom Everglades) argued the lot mitigates spillover parking and that all conditions have been met. One speaker noted a sign on the fence that contained racially insensitive errors regarding the community’s history. - Future Land Use and Zoning (PZAB1 & PZAB2): One resident, Melissa Saldania, expressed concerns about pedestrian safety in the area, citing her own experience as a hit‑and‑run victim and noting that the proposed changes would add an estimated 162 vehicle trips during evening rush hour. - Off‑Street Parking Standards (PZAB4): Alex Udive spoke in support, suggesting that the amendment should allow expanding parking capacity via lifts or risers without increasing the footprint. - Co‑Living (PZAB5): No public comments were made; board members expressed support for affordable housing options. Discussion Items 1. TOP Appeal – Construction Parking on Charles Avenue (PZAB3) City staff presented that a TOP for 37 construction vehicles at 3227 and 3247 Charles Avenue had been approved with conditions (120‑day term, school‑days only, secure site). The appellant (Preserve the West Grove) argued the lot would exacerbate traffic in an already‑congested historic residential area, that the application bypassed proper zoning review, and that the school could use alternative parking (e.g., a shuttle from a nearby garage). The board debated the legal basis: some members found the code circular and noted the intensity of the use was incompatible with the T3R residential zone. The board voted 7‑1 to grant the appeal, reversing the TOP permit. 2. Future Land Use and Zoning – Northwest 36th Court Area (PZAB1 & PZAB2) Staff recommended changing 55 properties (approximately 6.34 acres) from Duplex Residential to a mix of Low Density Multi‑Family, Restricted Commercial, and Low Density Restricted Commercial. The proposal is a continuation of earlier rezonings and is intended to provide housing diversity and support for multi‑generational families. A community meeting was held with nine attendees; two property owners on the east side requested inclusion. The concurrency analysis showed compliance for schools, sewer, solid waste, and traffic, but failure for recreation/open space (the commissioner’s office is seeking additional parkland). Both items were approved by the board 8‑0. 3. Off‑Street Parking Standards – Amendment to Miami 21 (PZAB4) The proposal allows legally‑established parking lots in T3 and T4R zones to continue by right (rather than by exception) and permits new parking lots or structures in T4 or T5 zones by warrant when serving an abutting residential or lodging use. The board amended the language to require a warrant for new lots in T4/T5 serving abutting uses, and to allow by right for platted lots with bifurcated zoning. The amendment passed 7‑0. 4. Co‑Living Near Colleges and Universities (PZAB5) The amendment permits co‑living units (shared sleeping quarters with common kitchen/living areas) within a quarter‑mile of accredited colleges and universities, excluding T3 single‑family zones. The board noted potential benefits for students, teachers, and affordable housing. The item was approved 7‑0. Key Outcomes - TOP Appeal (PZAB3): Granted – the board voted 7‑1 to reverse the Temporary Occupancy Permit for construction parking on Charles Avenue. The decision is final and not appealable to the City Commission. - Future Land Use Amendment (PZAB1): Approved 8‑0, to be forwarded to the City Commission. - Zoning Change (PZAB2): Approved 8‑0, companion to the FLUM amendment. - Off‑Street Parking Standards (PZAB4): Approved 7‑0, as amended, to be forwarded to the City Commission. - Co‑Living Amendment (PZAB5): Approved 7‑0, to be forwarded to the City Commission.

The Climate Resilience Committee (CRC) held its regular meeting on October 19, 2026, starting at 10:15 AM. The agenda included a presentation on the Legion Park living shoreline design, a report on waterfront connectivity, discussion of a resolution to request a city appointment to the Biscayne Bay Watershed Management Advisory Board, and updates from the Office of Resilience and Sustainability. The committee voted unanimously to approve the September 21 regular minutes and October 6 agenda planning workshop minutes, and also unanimously approved three absence waivers for members who were ill (Avra, Alison, and Jenny Lee). Public comments addressed waterfront walkway protection and tree canopy resilience. The committee supported the waterfront connectivity report with emphasis on interim connectivity and FDOT partnerships, and passed a resolution requesting city commission action on a watershed board seat. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: Motion to approve the regular September 21, 2026 minutes and the October 6, 2026 agenda planning workshop minutes passed unanimously. (Motion: Grant Muster; Second: Wayne Pathman) - Absence Waivers: Motion to hear and then approve late waiver requests for Avra, Alison, and Jenny Lee (all illness-related) required a supermajority and passed unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Abbey Ape (online comment): Expressed support for protecting the full 25-foot public waterfront walkway in Brickell, urging that access remain continuous, clearly marked, and welcoming. Asked that landscaping, seating, or private uses not reduce the public space, and that approvals include requirements for public access, maintenance, and enforcement. - Gabrielle Pekena (online comment): Urged the CRC to consider tree canopy and resilience, stating that trees and shade are being reduced by interest groups and municipal actions, which violates the city's codified commitment to resiliency. Asked that the CRC redirect Miami's future toward stronger ecological systems. Discussion Items - Legion Park Living Shoreline Design (Presentation by Sahida Curtis and Olivia of Curtis Rogers Design Studio/EXP): The design update showed a 12-foot wide baywalk (reduced from standard 15-foot via variance), preservation of all existing canopy, removal of two invasive species only, and creation of tidal pools, oyster reefs, and marsh grasses per the National Coastal Resilience Grant requirements. Elevated decks are placed in existing mangrove gaps; inland retention swales will capture and infiltrate stormwater to improve water quality. No trees are being removed; only a few palms will be relocated. The committee discussed the need for interim connectivity and noted that the project was previously reviewed under CRC waterfront guidelines. No formal vote was taken; the committee recommended that the design team review the CRC’s waterfront checklist and suggested that the project return for a later update after public outreach (which begins October 22, 2026). - Waterfront Connectivity Report (Presentation by Andrea Sandoval and Richard Brown, Planning Department): This benchmark study categorises all waterfront frontage (Baywalk and Riverwalk) into connected/Miami 21 compliant, connected/pre-Miami 21, disconnected, forthcoming, proposed greenway, or not applicable. Key findings: 48% of overall waterfront is connected, but only 15% of that meets current Miami 21 standards; 30% of the pre-Miami 21 connections are considered “satisfied.” The report identifies opportunities for interim connections, coordination with FDOT at bridge underpasses, expansion of the waterfront materials index, and a potential on-road greenway along South Brickell Avenue. The committee discussed incentives, living shorelines, best practices, and dimensional constraints. A motion was made to support the report’s 12 preliminary recommendations, with emphasis on items 3 (partnering with FDOT) and 4 (providing interim connectivity), and to include suggestions for implementing green infrastructure/living shorelines wherever possible, reviewing best practices, and evaluating dimensional waiver options. The motion passed unanimously. - Biscayne Bay Watershed Management Advisory Board Resolution: The committee discussed and then voted on a draft resolution requesting the Miami City Commission to appoint a city representative to the county’s Biscayne Bay Watershed Management Advisory Board. Committee member Urella Baget reported that there is currently one vacancy and likely another, and that the city’s seat would come through the League of Cities. The resolution cites the city’s extensive waterfront, its role as the largest municipality in the county, and the need for a seat at the table as the county develops nutrient reduction targets. The motion to approve the resolution (as amended per legal review) passed unanimously. The item will be placed on the December 10, 2026 city commission agenda. Key Outcomes - Votes: - Approval of September 21 and October 6 minutes: unanimous. - Approval of three absence waivers: unanimous. - Support for Waterfront Connectivity Report and its 12 recommendations with added emphasis on interim connectivity and FDOT partnerships: unanimous. - Approval of resolution for city appointment to Biscayne Bay Watershed Management Advisory Board: unanimous. - Directives & Next Steps: - Legion Park design team will receive the CRC’s waterfront checklist and is expected to return for a future update after public outreach. - The Planning Department will incorporate the committee’s suggestions (green infrastructure, living shorelines, best practices, dimensional review) into the waterfront report and proceed toward a city commission briefing by year’s end. - The approved resolution will be submitted to the city commission by October 23 to appear on the December 10 agenda; committee member Urella Baget will serve as point of contact. - Responses to staff questions (on Back Bay study, Dream projects, etc.) are anticipated by the next meeting. - Other Updates: The Office of Resilience and Sustainability reported giving away 600 trees on October 2-4 (1,100 total for the year), receiving 24 applications for the Bloomberg Youth Climate Action Fund microgrants, and collecting 12,515 pounds of trash from 25 coastal cleanups with 1,359 volunteers during International Coastal Cleanup Day.

The City of Miami held a Code Enforcement Special Magistrate hearing on Thursday, October 15, 2026, at 2:00 PM to hear appeals for code enforcement tickets and civil citations. The hearing processed a large consent docket of settlements, addressed failures to appear, and conducted one fully contested trial regarding a turbidity violation against a marine contractor. Consent Calendar (Settlements) The majority of the docket consisted of settlements where property owners or their representatives agreed that a violation occurred. Fines ranged from $50 to $500. Key individual settlements included: - 149 NW 11th St (Ray Bohr, POA): $200. - 1821 NW 34th St (Benjamin Figgy, Owner): $250. - 61 NW 57th St (Carmen A. Ramirez, Owner): $250. - 721 NW 7th Street Road (Josh Trifiletti, Owner): $50. - 101 NW 20th St (Arturo Navarete, POA): $500. - 1100 NW 27th St (Aida Lopez): $100. - 1748 NW 42nd St (Omnia Massoud, Owner): $50. - 2101 SW 22nd St: $75. - 2962 NW 14th Ave (Yamile Valdez, Owner): $250. - 2551 SW 21st St (Laura Martinez, Owner): $250. - 5745 NW 5th Ave (Margarita Talte, Owner): $250. - 1493 NW 38th St (Betty Comarty, Owner): $250. - 2569 Trap Ave: $50. - 746 NW 61st St: $100. - 2585 NW 21st Terrace (Brett Seidler for FTP Investment Corp): $250. Contested Hearings & Testimony Request for Continuance (317 NE 71st St) A representative for a coastal waste violation appeared without a valid power of attorney. The Magistrate granted a single continuance, warning that the case would be heard on the next date regardless of representation. Kearns Construction Company Turbidity Violation (2550 South Bay Shore Drive) The primary contested case involved a $500 violation issued to Kearns Construction for work activities allegedly causing a turbidity plume into Biscayne Bay at Bayshore Landing Marina on July 31, 2026. An additional $150 in prosecution costs was sought. City's Position and Testimony: - Inspector Jorge Bernard testified that on July 31, he observed sand and sediment on a barge operated by Kearns at Bayshore Landing Marina and confirmed photographic evidence of the sediment. - Engineer III Michael Walton stated he investigated the site and checked all nearby municipal outfalls and construction for other sources of turbidity. He found no illegal discharges or other active marine construction, concluding the turbidity was most concentrated around Kearns' barge. - MS4 Section Head Eli Rosa Esteves, a registered Professional Engineer with over 30 years of experience, identified the material on the barge as crushed lime rock. She testified this specific material creates turbidity when mixed with water. She acknowledged no inspector witnessed material actively falling from the barge or performed a turbidity test. Respondent's Position: John Kearns, owner of Kearns Construction, argued the turbidity was caused by the City of Miami's storm sewer system, not his material barge. - He argued that a record rainfall on July 27, 2026, overwhelmed the city's drainage system, which discharges directly into the bay. - He stated that no city inspector physically witnessed any material falling from his barge. - He claimed the material on the barge was heavy silica sand, which does not create the fine ultra turbidity observed, contradicting the city's expert testimony. - He asserted that a different contractor (Dock and Marine Construction) was simultaneously working in the area, providing an alternative source. - He presented photographs taken days and weeks after his barge departed showing persistent turbidity, arguing this proved the city sewer was the cause, not his barge. - He contested the notice of violation's statement regarding a permit requirement, presenting evidence from a city official stating no Class One permit was needed for the decking work. Key Outcomes - Kearns Construction Case: The Magistrate affirmed the violation, stating the evidence and testimony showed the barge was the source. The $500 fine was upheld, and $150 in prosecution costs were added, for a total of $650. Mr. Kearns stated his intention to appeal the decision to the 11th Judicial Circuit Court of Florida, as permitted under Florida law. - No-Shows: Multiple cases where respondents failed to appear resulted in the violations being automatically upheld. - Power of Attorney Deficiency: A respondent lacking a valid power of attorney for five properties was granted a single continuance by the Magistrate, with a strict warning that the cases would proceed on the next hearing date regardless of representation.

The City of Miami Code Enforcement Board convened on October 14, 2026, to hear a heavy docket of cases. The meeting covered fine mitigations, extensions of time, contested hearings, and absentia rulings. The board attorney read standard procedures in English, Spanish, and Creole. A quorum was present, and an excused absence was granted to newly appointed board member Gomez to allow a conflict of interest review. The board briefly addressed a streaming issue with channel 77. Mitigation Cases - 2946 SW 34th Ave (Attorney John A. Guschiza): The owners were victimized by contractors and one child needed a kidney transplant. The lien of $394,000 was reduced to $5,000. - 7929 NE 1st Ave (Ali Givenkow, Liz Licky Viljum): The $184,000 lien for operating without a Business Tax Receipt was reduced to the commercial minimum of $15,000. - 3174 SW 25th St (Represented by Norris Crew): A homestead property. The $87,500 lien was reduced to $0 via unanimous vote. - 1449 NW 68th Terrace (Owner Mike Venidale): The property was burned down by a squatter and demolished by the city. The $115,000 lien was reduced to $7,500, contingent on paying a $12,532 demolition lien for the same property within 60 days. A separate $44,831 demolition debt on another property was discussed but not included in the condition. - 1595 NW 60th St (Owner Kenya Sanchez): A commercial lot cited for work without a permit. The $41,750 lien was reduced to the 20% minimum of $8,350. The owner's request to recalculate the fine from an earlier date was denied as outside the board's authority. - 604 NW 25th Ave (Elizabeth Akai, by Power of Attorney): An Adult Living Facility. The $755,000 lien was reduced to $0 via unanimous vote. Extensions of Time - 2130 SW 19th Terrace: Granted 120 days due to contractor abandonment. - 2148 NW 17th Ave: Granted 120 days after tenants were evicted and severely damaged the property. - 1900 NW 35th St (Attorney Maria Danay): Granted 120 days to resolve a complex unity of title issue with the city before permitting can proceed. Contested Hearings (To Be Heards) - 106 NW 80th St (Attorney Mickey Barrero): Two cases for tree removal, fence, and debris. Pleaded guilty. Granted 120 days, $250/day per diem. - 170 NW 57th St (Maria Morello): Vacant lot with storage and an RV used as a residence (since removed). Pleaded guilty. Granted 120 days, $250/day per diem. - 1045 NE 84th St (Owner Pedro Aparicio): Tree removal without a permit. Pleaded guilty. Granted 120 days, $150/day per diem. - 620/610 NE 87th St (Owner): Three tree removal tickets. Pleaded not guilty. Owner stated under oath he never removed any trees from the vacant lot. The board found the property guilty because the ticket was not timely appealed and no after-the-fact permit was pulled. Granted 120 days, $250/day per diem. - 1236 NW 31st St (Angie Garcia, property manager): Work without a permit, in the permitting process. Pleaded guilty. Granted 120 days, $150/day per diem. - 428 NW 10th Ave (Gary and mother Estina): Outside storage and unpermitted fence for a junk removal business. Pleaded guilty. Granted 120 days, $250/day per diem. - 1063 NW 55th Terrace (Owner Hans Duran): Work without a permit for a fence and window enclosure. Pleaded guilty. Granted 120 days, $150/day per diem. - 1581 NW 55th Terrace (Owner George Pratt): Two cases (tree removal, work w/o permit). One case was voided, the other pleaded guilty. Granted 120 days, $150/day per diem. - 161 NW 35th St (Gwendolyn Ferraro with Power of Attorney for Ricardo Seed): Unlicensed short-term rental. Pleaded guilty. Owner stated unit was uninhabitable, but inspector found it still listed. Granted 30 days to remove listings and provide inspector access, $250/day per diem. - 1480 NW 59th St (Owners John Palacio, Gwendolyn Ferraro): Work without a permit for fence, pavers, and storage. Pleaded guilty. Granted 120 days, $150/day per diem. - 735 NW 55th St (Carla Latino, via interpreter): Cutting trees without a permit. Pleaded guilty. Granted 120 days, $250/day per diem. - 1625 SW 19th Terrace (Owner Jose Lascano): Pleaded not guilty to having an RV and a boat on a T3 zoned single-family lot. The owner argued a prior inspector allowed it and cited city code. The city attorney clarified Miami 21 code (Sections 5.3.5 and 3.6.3) prohibits temporary structures like RVs in T3 zones. The board found the property guilty. The boat can remain with screening, but the RV must be removed. Granted 120 days, $150/day per diem. The owner was advised of his right to appeal to the 11th Judicial Circuit Court. - 1330 NW 56th St (Owners Jahima Fumero and Jesus Diaz): Work without a permit (kitchen/bath conversion discovered during inspection). Pleaded guilty. Granted 120 days, $250/day per diem. - 1265 NW 35th St (Owner Emilio Bruscantini): Vacant lot with chickens, trash, and barbed wire. Pleaded guilty. Owner humorously noted chickens were from a neighbor. Granted 90 days, $250/day per diem. Absentia Hearings The board heard multiple cases where no respondent appeared. Standard compliance deadlines of 3 to 90 days were set, with per diem fines of $150 or $250 depending on property type. Notable cases included: - 1700 NW 63rd St: Property cited as a repeat violator for outside storage. Found guilty, 3 days to comply, $250/day per diem. - 2527 NW 13th Ave: Property with severe blight and trash. Found guilty, 3 days to comply, $150/day per diem. - 813 NW 29th St: A speaker attempted to represent the owner without a Power of Attorney. Property found guilty, granted 30 days to comply, $150/day per diem. - 1121 NW 56th St: Permits were mostly done (missing final inspections). Found guilty, granted 90 days, $150/day per diem. Key Outcomes The board successfully adjudicated a very large docket. Significant fine mitigations were granted based on homeowner hardships and compliance efforts. The board strictly applied the city code in contested cases, notably upholding an RV prohibition in a T3 zone. Several properties were found in compliance and closed. The meeting concluded around 7:50 PM and the board adopted the 2027 meeting schedule.

The Miami Historic and Environmental Preservation Board (HEP) met in special session on October 13, 2026. The board approved routine items, heard public comment about a tree-removal appeal, continued two pending appeals to the November 3, 2026 regular meeting, denied one appeal, and received updates on city commission actions affecting prior HEP decisions. All formal votes were unanimous. Routine Approvals and Procedural Matters - Quorum was present; absence waivers were approved by voice vote. - The minutes of the September 15, 2026 special meeting were approved by voice vote. - The agenda was adjusted to allow item 2, a continuance request, to be taken up before item 1 after public comments. Public Comments & Testimony - Tatiana Oyster, 3525 Royal Palm Avenue, raised procedural concerns about item 3 (3201 Day Avenue): she said the lack of details and possibly unmailed 500-foot notices made meaningful public comment difficult, and online comment had already closed. She described the property's old-growth gumbo limbo trees and urged the board to help preserve them. - Denise Tobino, 2566 Trap Avenue, Coconut Grove, expressed full support for the appeal filed by Pauline Ben Kamun regarding proposed tree removals at 3201 Day Avenue and asked the board to grant it. She cited a $682.50 fee allegedly paid for required mailed notices that she said were not sent, and asked the board to confirm on the record or continue the hearing. She cited that 22 of the 26 trees on the property were approved for removal, 15 were rated fair or good by the applicant's arborist (including five native gumbo limbos), three adjoining trees were listed as requiring no protection despite root zones extending into the construction area, more than 300 feet of root barriers were proposed while no root pruning was planned, and some protection barriers were smaller than the arborist specified. She urged preservation of healthy trees, matching protection zones, safeguards for neighboring trees and roots, and an updated arborist assessment. Noticing Report - Staff reported that the Miami Herald advertisement ran at least 10 days in advance, the property was posted on September 28, 2026 at 3:31 p.m., and 235 mail notices were prepared and mailed, processed on September 25 and confirmed fulfilled on September 26. This contradicted the public speakers' claim that notices had not been sent. Agenda Item 2 – Continuance of File ID 19888 - The appellant and opposing counsel, including attorney David Winker, requested a continuance because they had reached a verbal settlement and hoped to memorialize it, resulting in withdrawal of the appeal. - The board voted unanimously to continue the item to the regularly scheduled HEP meeting on November 3, 2026 at 3:00 p.m. at Miami City Hall, rather than schedule a second special meeting. Agenda Item 1 – Appeal BD 2501673401, 1300 NW 36th Street (Minute Track ID 19353) - Neither the appellant nor the applicant appeared. Staff reported that the parties had reached an agreement, that the appellant wanted to be heard, and that the applicant's on-site planting exceeded the required mitigation. - The board voted unanimously to deny the appeal, removing the item from the agenda. The decision is final unless appealed to the Circuit Court within 15 days. Agenda Item 3 – Tree Removal Appeal, 3201 Day Avenue - Board members noted that the appellant had not appeared when the item was called; the item was continued for the board's convenience after staff confirmed that the required noticing had occurred. - The board voted unanimously to continue the appeal to November 3, 2026 at 3:00 p.m. at Miami City Hall. - After the vote, Carla Colindres of Land Studio and Luis Marin, a representative of the owner, addressed the board. The board stated that any future representative must hold a power of attorney from the owner; no additional notice would be mailed because the item had already been duly noticed. City Commission Appeals Update - For 3736 Irvington Avenue, the city commission overturned the HEP board's ruling and allowed the removal of a live oak. Attorney David Winker indicated he intended to file a certiorari appeal, with a deadline on the Thursday following the meeting. - For the Legion Park project, the decision was also upheld, the applicant had met all conditions, and the trees had already been removed. - For the El Prado project, the parties reached an agreement. - Staff also noted that the only appeal received timely for the November agenda was the one referenced by Mr. Calmus at the previous meeting. Key Outcomes - Item 2 (File ID 19888): continued to November 3, 2026 – unanimous roll call. - Item 1 (Appeal BD 2501673401): appeal denied – unanimous roll call; final unless appealed within 15 days. - Item 3 (3201 Day Avenue): continued to November 3, 2026 – unanimous roll call. - Next regular HEP meeting: November 3, 2026 at 3:00 p.m., Miami City Hall, 3500 Pan American Drive.

The Wynwood Design Review Committee (WDRC) met on October 13, 2026, to review four signage applications and to hold a working discussion of the draft Wynwood Vision Plan and Design Guidelines. All four signage applications were approved, with no opposition noted. The committee also approved an absent waiver and the September 2026 meeting minutes. Only the raw transcript was provided; no agenda or minutes were available to cross-reference. Consent Calendar - A quorum was present, including Chair Dunlap. - An absent waiver for Miguel Omar was moved, seconded, and approved unanimously. - The September 2026 meeting minutes were moved, seconded, and approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - No online public comments were pending as of 8:10 a.m., and the chair closed the public comment period. - No members of the public spoke during the designated public comment portion of the meeting. Signage Approvals - The Doris, 153 NW 25th Street (Item 1): The presenter, speaking for the tenant, described a proposed non-illuminated wall sign using individual channel letters. The client chose not to illuminate the sign to avoid adding a raceway and electrical elements behind the letters. The Doris is a co-working building used mainly during daytime hours, so nighttime identification was not considered necessary. Board members responded positively to the sign. The approval motion passed. - SMACT, 170 NW 24th Street (Item 2): Jason Boone of Southeast Sign Company proposed a flush-mounted illuminated channel-letter sign with faux neon and halo backlighting. The sign was proposed at 23.8 square feet against the 24-square-foot maximum. Boone described SMACT as a fast-growing chain and said the design used cues from nearby signs including Temple Craft Beer and Burgers and Throw Social. The approval motion passed. - Wynwood Works, 2035 North Miami Avenue (Item 3): The presenter described Wynwood Works as a 120-unit affordable housing project developed with the Miami CRA, the Dade County Housing Finance Authority, the Wynwood BID, and a housing venture partner, with set-asides for people transitioning out of homelessness and for artists. The proposed sign was the project's original logo, reflecting Wynwood's working and warehouse history. The project had been a finalist for ULI's Vision Awards for Project of the Year. The building has been fully occupied since receiving its certificate of occupancy. Board members strongly praised the logo and the project's values. The approval motion passed. - Biocube, 53 NW 26th Street (Item 4): A representative of Soul Signs, a Miami sign company with 45 years of experience, proposed a reverse channel-letter illuminated sign with backlit LED at a 3,000K color temperature for the wellness center. Board members had no comments or questions. The approval motion passed. Discussion Items: Wynwood Vision Plan - City planner Andrea reviewed the WDRC's role: reviewing design, architectural treatments, pedestrian access, the Wynwood Streetscape Master Plan, and signage, with the ability to recommend amendments to Appendix J (NRD-1). The finalized Vision Plan would become the support for project reviews and would replace the existing design regulations on the city website, while text amendments to the zoning code would require a City Commission ordinance with two readings. - Staff mentioned SB 180, a state law that may restrict new zoning restrictions because of hurricane proximity to Miami-Dade within roughly 100 miles over the past three years. Existing NRD-1 public-benefit incentives include bonus floor area or height for parks, civic spaces, and cross-block connectivity; an open-to-sky cross-block connection earns five times the floor-area bonus of a roofed connection, up to the bonus height, but few developers use these programs. - Andrea reported that the CMU Special Area Plan amendment, formerly known as Mana Wynwood, was submitted to the city that morning. It was preliminary and had not gone through the first review cycle. A board member requested a copy of the five-page submission, and staff agreed to send it. Community outreach is required for a new SAP designation but not for an SAP amendment, though outreach can be encouraged. - Gensler's Moriel summarized work completed since June, including interviews with developers and community leaders, stakeholder workshops, an artist round table with about ten artists, neighborhood walks in Wynwood and the Design District, and review of existing codes. The team found that Wynwood is at an inflection point, the creative ecosystem is under pressure, pedestrian experience is the top concern, and projects need to think beyond their property boundaries. The draft guidelines are organized around built form, street life interface, public realm, and creative identity and activation. Gensler clarified that the document is primarily design guidelines, not a full neighborhood plan. - Board members said the WDRC should focus on design rather than code compliance and asked to hear from architects rather than lawyers. Several described Wynwood as a walkable outdoor museum and said buildings themselves should be works of art. - Several board members stressed connecting Wynwood to adjacent neighborhoods, including Wynwood Norte, the Design District, North Miami Avenue, and Fifth Avenue, and argued that art, streetscape, and pedestrian experience should not stop at district borders. Ideas included sculptural landmarks or a grid of follies for wayfinding, linear parks, and using underpasses as galleries or community spaces. - Board members discussed preserving the organic, artist-driven character of Wynwood and ensuring art is at pedestrian scale. They suggested a Wynwood-specific public art or mural program, curated artist resources, and measures to ensure promised art is actually implemented rather than left as a placeholder. - David Lerner of the Wynwood BID, speaking personally, said the final document should produce a realistic list of enforceable requirements. He suggested increasing the required front-facade art from 20 percent to 25 percent, bringing art down to ground level, and reducing first-floor glazing to a 70 percent maximum. A separate board member floated reducing the glazing limit on the lower 10 feet from 70 percent to 50 percent, while another cautioned that such limits could hurt small retail and restaurant sites that need transparent storefronts. One board member warned that forced art can produce bad art and urged art in public infrastructure such as bus stops, benches, crosswalks, and street signs. - Multiple board members recommended an earlier conceptual design or pre-application step so the committee could discuss design before full code review and legal presentations. One proposal was a condition-precedent pre-application review similar to the county RTZ process. Staff responded that current rules usually require an active building permit or entitlement application and a city review cycle before a project is referred to the WDRC. - Staff noted that expedited review is difficult because affordable housing and Live Local projects are citywide priorities, and the urban design review division has only two or three reviewers. Citywide, there were about 98 Live Local applications but only five building permits had been issued. Key Outcomes - All four signage applications were approved: The Doris, SMACT, Wynwood Works, and Biocube. - The absent waiver for Miguel Omar and the September 2026 meeting minutes were approved unanimously. - Gensler will continue accepting feedback on the draft Vision Plan. The finalized plan is expected to be used by planning staff and to replace existing design guidance online; any code-text changes will need City Commission approval through two readings. - Staff agreed to send the CMU SAP submission to board members. The committee will continue discussing possible pre-application review, public-art programs, and NRD-1 incentive changes.