Public Meetings - Miami, Florida

The Wynwood Design Review Committee (WDRC) met on July 14, 2026, to consider agenda items including approval of absentee waivers, approval of prior meeting minutes, and a sign application for Prime Stake Donor at 265 NW 24th Street. The meeting was called to order with a quorum of three members present. Consent Calendar - Absentee Waivers: Approved for Alan Kett, Miguel Omar, ID Weigand, and Jared Brunabed. - June 16th Minutes: Approved. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were submitted online or in person. Discussion Items - WDRC Resolution 19547 – Sign for Prime Stake Donor (265 NW 24th Street): The applicant, Jennifer Ronneberger of GoPermit, presented a proposal for an exterior sign on the south elevation of the building, replacing a previous sign from the former Udon restaurant. The sign was described as reverse channel letters with white nighttime illumination, measuring 21.5 square feet, to be mounted on brackets above the door. Committee members expressed concern that the sign did not align with the spirit of Wynwood's design character, citing a lack of creativity and visual appeal during the day. The applicant noted that the building's architecture constrained sign placement and that the landlord had restricted the sign location per the lease. Committee members suggested exploring more creative signage options, including potential use of color, window treatments, or blade signs, and encouraged dialogue with the landlord. The applicant requested to withdraw the item to redesign the sign and return in September. The committee also noted that a second identical sign on the west elevation was scheduled for September and would be addressed at the same time. Key Outcomes - Withdrawal: The applicant withdrew the sign application for WDRC Resolution 19547, with the understanding that a revised sign design will be presented at the September meeting. - Direction: The committee advised the applicant to discuss lease restrictions with the landlord and to bring multiple design options, along with comprehensive context photos, for the September hearing.

The Miami Code Enforcement Board convened on July 14, 2026, at 10:00 AM to hear cases involving mitigation requests, extensions of time, and first-time violations. The board addressed two mitigation cases, one special appearance for a partial release, and a series of violation hearings, issuing findings of guilt and setting compliance deadlines and per diem fines. Mitigation Cases - Case 00023069 (744 NW 44th St): Owner Andrew Bailey inherited the property and faced financial hardship, including caring for a child with autism. The lien was $146,250. The board unanimously reduced the lien to $0, noting the property had homestead exemption. - Case 00058626 (1268 NW 3rd St): A commercial property represented by an accountant. The lien was $124,750. The board reduced the lien to the minimum of $15,000, with the owner agreeing. Special Appearance - Case 0006535, with related cases 0015921 and 0015878 (3337 SW 9th Terrace): Attorney Suzette Reyes requested a partial release of a separate property at 345 Malaga Ave, Coral Gables, to allow its sale to fund repairs on the violating property. The board granted a partial release for all three cases, noting the property owner had passed away and the son resided at the violating property. The release was to enable the sale of the Coral Gables property valued at $1.5 million to pay taxes and fix violations. Discussion and Hearing Cases - Case 00131479 (586 NW 48th St): Owner Luis Rodriguez pleaded guilty to a tree violation. Inspector Troutman recommended 120 days for compliance with a $150 per diem fine. The board granted 120 days. - Case 00161453 (1050 NE 83rd St): Owner Vera Barker, represented by her daughter, pleaded guilty to a fence/shed encroachment. Inspector Bailey noted two permits were obtained. The board granted 120 days with a $150 per diem fine. - Case 00157663 (2865 NW 17th Ave): Owner Christoph Arnoldson pleaded guilty to an expired food truck tag. Inspector Hallman recommended 30 days. The board granted 30 days with a $250 per diem fine. - Case 00127039 (1651 NW 22nd Pl): Owner pleaded guilty, inspector recommended 120 days with $150 per diem. Board granted as recommended. - Case 00123364 (56 NW 39th St): Owner Javier Lorenzo pleaded guilty to illegal structures in rear. Inspector Troutman recommended 120 days for demolition. Board granted 120 days with $150 per diem. - Case 00045940 (1798 NW 19th St): Owner Gina Gonzalez pleaded guilty to remaining violation after buying property with five code violations. She plans demolition but needs financing. Inspector recommended 120 days. Board granted 120 days with $150 per diem. - Case 00111679 (2141 NW 34th St): Representative Bernard Hernandez entered no contest/guilty for an addition, driveway, and shed without permits. Inspector Troutman recommended 120 days. Board granted 120 days with $150 per diem. - Case 00089760 (1331 NW 59th St): Owner Welling Pringley pleaded not guilty to failure to register vacant lot. City presented evidence; board found guilt solely on registration. Pringley said she was unaware and would comply. Board granted 30 days with $150 per diem. - Case 00145410 (563 NE 67th St): Owner Mariana Amate (Crafty Minds enrichment center) appeared. The property was cited for operating without a certificate of use after fire safety hold. The board found guilt and ordered 10 days to comply (stop operating or obtain proper occupancy) with a $250 per diem fine, citing life safety concerns. - Case 00151682 (1951 NW 7th Ave, Unit 190): Tenant Derek Turron appeared for failure to obtain business tax receipt and certificate of use. City recommended 120 days. Board granted 120 days with $250 per diem, noting the owner (University of Miami) must provide authority for the tenant to appear. Absentia Cases (Default Judgments) Several properties were heard in absentia with findings of guilt and compliance periods: - 509 NW 41st St (Case 00121215): Unauthorized conversion of duplex to fourplex. 3 days compliance, $250 per diem. - 760 NW 64th St (Case 0154850): Failure to register vacant lot. 3 days, $250 per diem. - 50 NW 41st St (Case 00101763): Vacant structure, blight, and improper storage. 3 days, $250 per diem. - 951 Brickell Ave (Case 00089802): Failure to have business tax receipt for valet. 3 days, $250 per diem. - 61676 NW 2nd St (Case 00161468): Failure to maintain facade, landscaping, and work without permit. 3 days, $250 per diem. - 828 NE 76th St (Case 00159048): Failure to register vacant structure. 3 days, $150 per diem. - 1150 NE 87th St (Case 00161581): Improper removal of eight trees. 3 days, $150 per diem. - 425 NE 76th St (Case 00157050): Failure to register vacant structure. 3 days, $150 per diem. - 268 NE 80th St (Case 00112429): Removal of four trees without permit. 3 days, $250 per diem. Key Outcomes - Two mitigation cases resolved with reduced liens ($0 and $15,000). - Partial release granted for three cases to allow sale of a separate property to fund repairs. - Multiple violation hearings resulted in findings of guilt with compliance periods ranging from 10 to 120 days and per diem fines of $150 or $250. - The meeting adjourned after all cases were heard.

The Tree Advisory Committee held its inaugural organizational meeting on July 13, 2026, from approximately 9:00 AM to 12:18 PM. The meeting focused on committee member introductions, process overview, sunshine law training, a high-level overview of Miami's tree regulatory framework, and planning for public workshops. Six members were present, establishing a quorum. No formal votes were taken. Public Comments & Testimony - Katrina Morris (Coconut Grove resident) expressed frustration that developers are overrepresented and that the public feels under threat. She questioned the choice of a workshop venue (Regatta Grove) whose contact person is a developer and urged the committee to prioritize livability over profit. - Lindsay Kane (Miami resident, representing Miami Tree Preservation Action Committee) criticized the meeting time (9 AM Monday) as inaccessible, highlighted a surge in tree removals, and called for an audit of the Tree Trust Fund. She requested harsher penalties for violations, earlier resident notification of permits, and noted that the city's Citizens Bill of Rights is being violated. - Trulie Burton (Executive Vice President, Builders Association of South Florida) offered to disseminate information to members and stressed the need to balance tree preservation with affordable housing. She urged calm dialogue and recommended planting the right trees in the right places. - Silvio Pupo (Altapada resident, Climate Resilience Committee member) offered himself as a resource and requested a joint workshop between the CRC and this committee to review his proposals (Leaf and Canopy), which focus on community stewardship, tree corps, open data, and transparency of the Tree Trust Fund. Discussion Items - Introductions & Committee Purpose: Each member introduced themselves, their background, and hopes for the committee. Common themes: tree canopy crisis, need for balanced policy, improved process and transparency, and education of developers and architects. - Process & Work Plan Review: Facilitators from the Consensus Center (Florida State University) explained the committee's charge: to review and recommend improvements to Chapter 17 (tree ordinance) and related policies. They described a consensus-building process using a four-point scale (wholehearted support to major reservations) rather than voting, with a final report transmitted to the City Commission. The work plan includes two rounds of public workshops (broad input in Aug–Sept 2026, then specific feedback in Dec 2026), with the committee aiming to finalize recommendations by March 2027. - Sunshine Law Briefing: Senior Assistant City Attorney Patricia Arias provided a detailed briefing on Florida's Sunshine Law (Article I, Section 24(b) and Section 286.011), prohibiting two or more members from discussing committee business outside public meetings, including email, phone, or social gatherings. Members were reminded to take an ethics course within 90 days and to file financial interest statements. - Overview of Tree Regulatory Framework: Sean Smith (Acting Chief of Environmental Resources, certified arborist) presented a high-level overview of Miami's tree regulations, including definitions (regulated tree: ≥2" DBH, ≥12' height; specimen tree: ≥18" DBH), permit requirements, replacement/mitigation rules (progressive chart based on total DBH removed), Tree Trust Fund (approx. $1.8 million as of May 2026), enforcement fines ($500–$1,000 per tree, up to $5,000/day for repeat violators), and the interaction with county and state laws (Chapter 24 and Florida Statute 163.045). He also highlighted the city's tree planting goals (500 trees per quarter, 20% canopy increase over 5 years) and the role of the Urban Forestry Team. - Interview Summary Review: Facilitators presented a summary of interviews conducted with committee members and stakeholders, identifying key issues: requirements not having intended effect, permitting complexity, enforcement inconsistency, trust deficits, and need for a coordinated canopy strategy. Members noted the importance of district-specific priorities and the need for clearer staff guidance on jurisdictional issues (state/county/city roads). - Public Workshop Planning: The committee reviewed a tentative schedule of five district workshops (first round: Aug 10–14, 2026) and an online comment portal. The format will be roundtable discussions with broad questions (e.g., what is important about trees, what issues should the city address). Members were encouraged to help publicize the workshops but cautioned not to participate in discussions due to Sunshine Law constraints. Members suggested targeting developers, single-family homeowners, and using the workshops to gauge public priorities for city spending. Key Outcomes - Committee established: Quorum achieved (6 members present). Two additional members are expected to be appointed (one replacement, one at-large). - Next steps: Facilitators will send a poll to schedule future meetings, finalize workshop dates/locations, and provide a link to the online ethics training (virtual, July 14 at 2 PM). The presentation and interview summary will be made public. - Requests for action: The committee acknowledged requests for a joint workshop with the Climate Resilience Committee (from Silvio Pupo) and for an audit of the Tree Trust Fund (from public comment). These will be considered in future meetings. - No formal votes or decisions taken; the meeting was entirely organizational.

The Virginia Key Beach Park Trust met on July 9, 2026, at 6:15 PM ET, with Chair Christine King presiding. The meeting covered two resolutions and a quarterly report. Both resolutions were approved unanimously with no public comments or opposition. Consent Calendar - Resolution approving the Trust's meeting dates for the 2027 calendar year (Exhibit A). - Resolution approving the operating budget of $2,840,000 for fiscal year October 1, 2026 through September 30, 2027, subject to Miami City Commission approval, and authorizing the executive director to update financial controls, create fund accounts, and undertake project closeouts. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke. Discussion Items - Executive Director's Quarterly Report: The report was distributed (handed out and emailed) as it was not included in the meeting packet. Board members confirmed they had read it and did not require a formal presentation. Key Outcomes - Motion and second to approve both resolutions carried unanimously (voice vote: all ayes).

The City of Miami Commission held a meeting on July 9, 2026, addressing a wide range of items including recognitions, public comments, and votes on major ordinances. Key actions included approval of a $450 million public safety bond referendum (RE5), reversal of a Planning, Zoning and Appeals Board decision to allow redevelopment of the Coconut Grove Playhouse (PZ9), and passage of an amended ordinance on homeless encampments (FR2). The commission also settled litigation with former commissioner Joe Carollo (RE3) and approved a controversial billboard settlement (RE11). Consent Calendar - Routine approvals and unanimous actions: The consent agenda (two items) was passed without discussion. - Deferrals/withdrawals: Items RE8, PZ1, PZ2, PZ3, and PZ6 were withdrawn or indefinitely deferred; PZ7 and PZ10 were also deferred. Public Comments & Testimony Over 50 individuals spoke during public comment, focusing on: - RE5 (Public Safety Bond): Many speakers expressed support for the bond, citing deteriorating police/fire facilities and slow response times; others opposed it as fiscally irresponsible and lacking community outreach. Several police and fire union representatives urged the commission to let voters decide. Critics questioned the total debt and lack of town halls. - PZ9 (Coconut Grove Playhouse): A deeply divisive issue. Supporters argued the project would restore theater, bring economic benefits, and preserve history; opponents (especially residents of West Grove/Little Bahamas) expressed concerns about commercial encroachment, traffic, loss of green space, and lack of a community benefits agreement. The county proposed concessions including a buffer wall, traffic study, and no commercial frontage on residential streets. - FR2 (Homeless Encampment Ordinance): Strong opposition from homeless advocates, medical professionals, and faith leaders who argued the ordinance criminalizes homelessness, removes necessary warnings, and fails to address underlying housing/mental health issues. Supporters (including police) said it provides a tool for enforcement after offering shelter. Commissioner Escalona, the sponsor, introduced an amendment requiring a verbal warning and reasonable time to comply. - FR1 (Sidewalk Safety): Broad support from residents and disability advocates requiring developers to maintain safe pedestrian pathways during construction. - RE7 (GSA Site): Speakers urged deep affordability (20% at 80% AMI or below) for the redevelopment of the 20-acre site in Allapattah. - RE11 (Billboard Settlement): Opposition from Commissioner King and staff argued the deal would set a precedent and benefit a company with a history of illegal signs; the company’s attorney said it was a fair settlement to end a long-standing First Amendment lawsuit. - Other items: RE9/10 (vacancy appointments) and PH1-PH7 (housing) were also referenced. Discussion Items - RE5 – Safe and Ready Miami Public Safety Bond: Mayor Higgins and Commissioner Rosado advocated for letting voters decide on a $450M bond to replace/renovate fire stations, build a new public safety headquarters co-locating police/fire/911, and improve response times. Commissioners King and Pardo opposed, citing insufficient community engagement, unknown debt service, and the need for public-private partnerships. After extensive debate, Commissioner Gabella offered amendments requiring that proceeds from sale of the current police headquarters, capital grants, and future community benefit contributions be used to offset bond debt. The motion passed 3-2 (Commissioners King and Pardo dissenting). - PZ9 – Coconut Grove Playhouse Appeal: The county appealed the PZAB’s denial of waivers for lot coverage, green space, and driveway width. County Commissioner Regalado and staff presented the project, noting 22 supporters and 12 opponents in public comment, and offered concessions including a buffer wall, gate on the paseo, traffic study, and commitment to community engagement. Commissioner Pardo read additional conditions. The motion to grant the appeal passed unanimously 5-0. - FR2 – Encampment on Public Property Ordinance: Commissioner Escalona proposed an amendment requiring a verbal warning and reasonable time to abate before arrest, addressing concerns about criminalization. Police Chief Lopez and Human Services Director Gilbert confirmed the process relies on offering shelter first and noted arrest is a last resort. The amended ordinance passed 4-1 (Commissioner King dissenting). - RE3 – Carollo Litigation Settlement: The commission approved a settlement with former commissioner Joe Carollo for $770,000 (the last payment of attorney’s fees). Commissioner Gabella expressed frustration over the city’s inconsistent approach to litigation. The item passed despite some reluctance. - RE9 and RE10 – Vacancy Appointments: These items would have eliminated the option to fill vacancies by appointment, requiring special elections. Commissioners debated the pros and cons, noting financial and logistical concerns. The items were deferred indefinitely. - RE11 – Billboard Settlement with SDE Media: The commission approved a settlement allowing SDE Media to relocate an illegal billboard and potentially install two LED faces in exchange for fees. City Attorney Weissong warned of most-favored-nation clauses that could allow other billboard companies to seek similar terms, but outside counsel argued the deal was unique. The vote was 3-2 (Commissioners King and Pardo dissenting). - FR1 – Sidewalk Safety Ordinance: Passed unanimously requiring temporary pedestrian protection structures during construction. - First Reading Ordinances (PZ4, PZ5, PZ8): Passed unanimously to amend land use and zoning for a civic institution and to introduce definitions for cottage housing and update portico regulations. Key Outcomes - RE5: Approved as amended (3-2). The bond will go before voters in the November 2026 general election. Ballot language will include the $450M amount and list of projects. - PZ9: Appeal granted (5-0), approving the county’s waivers with conditions (buffer, gate, traffic study, community input). - FR2: Passed (4-1) with amendment requiring verbal warning and reasonable time. - RE3: Settlement approved (no recorded opposition). - RE9/10: Indefinitely deferred. - RE11: Approved (3-2) allowing the billboard settlement. - FR1, PZ4, PZ5, PZ8: Passed unanimously. The meeting recessed for attorney-client sessions regarding pending litigation.

The City of Miami Code Enforcement Board convened on July 8, 2026, at 10:00 AM to adjudicate code violation cases. The meeting included mitigation hearings, a status update on a remanded case, and a series of default adjudications. Board members present included Moshi Malka, Juan Galan, Keon Williams, and Javier Rodriguez, constituting a quorum. The board addressed over 20 cases involving violations such as work without permits, failure to obtain certificates of use, improper tree removal, illegal dumping, and more. Mitigation Cases - Case CE2018018603 (1644 NW 8th Terrace): Owner Aldrick Gonzalez requested mitigation. The property, previously a single-family home, had been demolished. An existing lien of over $200,000 was reduced to $5,000 by unanimous vote, as the property was brought into compliance. - Case 0006527 (2400 Overbrook Street): Owner Bernardo Paredes, represented by James Marks, sought mitigation for violations including work without a permit and graffiti. The board voted to set the fine at $7,500, down from $208,000, after a motion for $5,000 failed for lack of a second. Status Case on Remand - Case 00113925 (41 SE 5th St, Unit 2312): Constantine Khrushchenko appeared. The case had been remanded by the 11th Judicial Circuit due to due process violations. The board vacated all prior orders and reset the case for an evidentiary hearing at a future date convenient for the owner and his attorney. Guilty Pleas and Compliance Orders (First Session) Numerous property owners pleaded guilty and were granted time to comply with daily fines: - 2379 SW 9th St: Guilty, 120 days, $250/day - 725 W Flager St: Guilty, 120 days, $250/day - 3434 SW 8th St: Guilty, 120 days, $250/day - 640 SW 73rd Ave: Guilty, 60 days, $150/day (homestead) - 2759 SW 13th St: Guilty, 120 days, $150/day - 2380 SW 9th St: Guilty, 120 days, $150/day - 1770 SW 8th St & 1760 SW 8th St: Two cases, both guilty, 120 days, $250/day each - 55 SW Miami Ave Rd: Guilty, 120 days, $250/day - 4880 SW 6th St: Guilty, 120 days, $150/day (homestead, tree permit) - 3310 Oak Ave: Guilty, 120 days, $150/day - 241 NW 8th Ave: Guilty, 120 days, $250/day (commercial) - 321 NW 42nd St: Guilty, 120 days, $150/day - 5911 SW 2nd Terrace: Guilty, 120 days, $150/day - 148 NE 26th St (two cases): Guilty, 120 days, $250/day each - 5296 NW 4th St: Guilty, 120 days, $250/day - 719 NE 79th St: Guilty, 90 days, $250/day (sign without permit) Default and Absentia Cases (Rocket Docket) After a break, the board heard cases where owners did not appear, issuing guilty findings with compliance deadlines and daily fines: - 468 NW 27th Ave: Guilty, 3 days, $250/day - 2502 NW 24th Ave: Guilty, 3 days, $150/day - 5820 NE 9th Ave: Guilty, 3 days, $150/day - 168 NW 53rd St: Guilty (solid waste), already complied; adjudicated - 520 NW 39th St: Guilty, 90 days, $150/day - 1157 NW 1st St: Guilty, 3 days, $250/day - 5520 W Flagler St: Guilty, 3 days, $250/day - 951 NW 48th St: Guilty, 3 days, $150/day - 400 NW South River Dr: Reset due to potential ownership change - 1635 SW 17th Terrace: Guilty, 3 days, $150/day - 800 NE 76th St: Guilty, 3 days, $150/day - 5980 SW 5th St: Guilty, 3 days, $150/day - 8360 Biscayne Blvd: Reset due to missing photographs - 6901 SW 4th St: Guilty, 3 days, $250/day - 290 NW 59th Ave: Guilty, 3 days, $250/day (illegal units) - 8230 N Bay Shore Dr: Guilty, 3 days, $150/day - 671 NE 77th St: Reset due to ongoing investigation Key Outcomes - The board reduced a lien from over $200,000 to $5,000 in one mitigation case, and set a $7,500 fine in another. - One case was reset for a future evidentiary hearing per appellate court order. - Over 20 cases were adjudicated with compliance deadlines ranging from 3 to 120 days and daily fines of $150 or $250. - Several cases were reset due to missing evidence or ownership changes. - The board reminded property owners to request extensions before their compliance deadlines expire.

The Miami Historic and Environmental Preservation Board (HEP) held its regular meeting on July 7, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. The board addressed eight agenda items, including certificates of appropriateness, demolitions, new construction, and a historic designation. Key decisions included a denial of a shingle roof in the Palm Grove Historic District, approvals for several alterations and additions, and deferral of a major demolition and redevelopment project. The board also voted to hold a special meeting in September and reviewed a draft of the Palm Grove Historic District residential guidelines. Consent Calendar - No consent calendar items were noted; all items were discussed individually. Public Comments & Testimony - Item 1 (536 NE 65th St): A public comment was read but consisted only of a request to the board; no substantive testimony. - Item 5 (4505 N Miami Ave): Stacy Richmond, a neighboring resident, spoke in opposition to the demolition of the historic commercial structure and a single-family home, citing the loss of historical integrity and construction congestion. She argued the building was structurally sound and that the developer had not adequately engaged the community. A letter from the Buena Vista East Design Advisory Committee (BVEDAC) was also read, supporting staff's recommendation for denial, noting the applicant had not addressed previous concerns about demolition, massing, and design context. - Item 7 (567 NE 57th St): A public comment from a neighbor expressed support for the project as long as alterations remained compatible with the historic character. - Item 8 (701 NE 68th St): A letter from the Bayside Historic HOA expressed support for the new construction, asking that existing trees be preserved and encouraging future applicants to meet with the HOA early. Discussion Items - Item 1 – Roof Replacement at 536 NE 65th St (Palm Grove Historic District): The applicant, Genesis Nahera, requested a special certificate of appropriateness to install an asphalt shingle roof on a contributing structure. Staff recommended denial, citing the original flat tile roof and the historic district guidelines. The applicant provided multiple quotes, an engineering report claiming the roof structure could not support tile, and evidence of financial hardship. Board members debated the cost difference ($10,000–$20,000), the validity of the engineering report, and the applicant's efforts to secure grants. After the applicant declined a deferral, the board voted to deny the shingle roof. Vote: 5–1 (Powers, Campbell, Odell, Perez, Hopper in favor of denial; Collie opposed). - Item 2 – Preliminary Historic Designation at 3901 Braganza Ave (Coconut Grove): Applicant Barbara Lang requested designation of her single-family residence. Staff report noted the property meets criteria for historical, cultural, and architectural significance. The board praised the effort and approved the designation. Vote: 5–0. - Item 3 – Addition and Alterations at 634 NE 56th St (Morningside Historic District): The applicant proposed a two-story rear addition, window replacements, and demolition of a detached garage. Staff recommended approval with conditions. Board members commended the design, which distinguished new from historic elements using louvers and keystone. A condition was added to study the window and vent arrangement on the west facade. Vote: 6–0. - Item 4 – Alterations at 770 NE 70th St (Bayside Historic District): The applicant sought to enclose a garage, restore windows to match historic photos, and add a rear porch. Staff recommended approval. Board members noted the design's compatibility and urged use of historic-appropriate lighting and tile. Vote: 6–0. - Item 5 – Demolition and New Construction at 4505 N Miami Ave (Buena Vista East Historic District): The applicant proposed complete demolition of a contributing single-family home, partial demolition of the historic commercial structure (Carter's Pharmacy), and construction of three duplexes. Staff recommended denial, citing failure to demonstrate compliance with preservation criteria. The applicant argued financial hardship and structural unsoundness. After extensive discussion, the board voted to defer indefinitely, requiring: (1) full architectural drawings including site plan, elevations, sections, and roof plan; and (2) a landscape plan with tree survey. The applicant agreed to waive the 60-day decision deadline. Vote: 6–0. - Item 6 – After-the-Fact Alterations at 6 NE 44th St (Buena Vista East Historic District): The applicant requested approval for horizontal roller windows installed without proper review. Staff recommended denial, noting the windows were not consistent with the originally approved single-hung sash windows. The contractor cited life safety and egress requirements. The board approved a compromise: replace all windows on the north and west elevations (facing 43rd Street and North Miami Avenue) and any other windows visible from the public right-of-way (as determined by the Historic Preservation Officer) within nine months. Vote: 5–0. - Item 7 – Partial Demolition and Addition at 567 NE 57th St (Morningside Historic District): The applicant proposed a rear addition, window replacements, site improvements, and a zoning waiver for a side setback encroachment. Staff recommended approval with a condition that windows visible from the right-of-way remain hung sash (matching the historic six-over-one pattern). The board approved with that condition. Vote: 5–0. - Item 8 – New Construction at 701 NE 68th St (Bayside Historic District): The applicant proposed a single-family home on a vacant lot, referencing the historic frame vernacular and raising the structure above flood zone. Staff recommended approval with conditions on fence height and window design on the east elevation. The board approved with a condition to study a tripartite window arrangement on the front facade. Vote: 5–0. Key Outcomes - Denied: Item 1 – asphalt shingle roof at 536 NE 65th St (5–1). - Approved as designated: Item 2 – preliminary historic designation for 3901 Braganza Ave (5–0). - Approved with conditions: Items 3 (6–0), 4 (6–0), 6 (5–0), 7 (5–0), and 8 (5–0). - Deferred indefinitely: Item 5 – demolition and redevelopment at 4505 N Miami Ave (6–0), with requirements for architectural drawings and landscape plan. The applicant waived the 60-day decision deadline. - Special Meeting: Board approved a special meeting on September 15, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. to hear appeals of intended decisions. - Guidelines Review: The board reviewed the draft Palm Grove Historic District residential guidelines, developed with community input, and will consider a resolution for approval at the September meeting. Board members were asked to submit comments via email.

The Climate Resilience Committee (CRC) met on July 6, 2026, at 11:15 AM, receiving a comprehensive status update on the 2024 Stormwater Master Plan implementation, discussing budget recommendations, and celebrating the recent passage of the Sponge Program resolution. Key themes included the immense scale of infrastructure needs, funding challenges, and the importance of leveraging private development and new policy mechanisms. Public Comments & Testimony - Lindsay Kane (Miami-Dade resident): Expressed concern about tree removals, citing over 300 trees cut in Miami in 2026 and planned removals at Alan Morris Park, Margaret Pace Park (105 trees), and other historic sites. She urged the committee to prioritize trees as a climate resilience measure and referenced the city's citizen Bill of Rights regarding natural resource conservation. - Gabriel Rakenna (Model City resident): Asked about the committee's effectiveness in converting recommendations into policy, suggested exploring new revenue sources (e.g., citizen-reported pollution penalties used in New York), and requested that revenue data be presented alongside project costs to provide context. Stormwater Master Plan Implementation Update - Presenters: Clara Sidan (Assistant Director, Stormwater & Permitting), John Goldman (CDM Smith), Dr. Tom Nyer (CDM Smith). - Overview: The presentation covered the 3.1 billion dollar, 20-year master plan, model parameters (EPA SWIM model, neighborhood-level detail down to 5-10 acres), priority projects, funding status, and coordination with other agencies. - Level of Service Goals: Primary goal: no flooding over road crown in a 10-year storm; secondary (more feasible) goal: no flooding over road crown in a 5-year storm, with temporary, predictable flooding during a 10-year event. - Projects & Funding: 24 neighborhood projects identified as priority, 12 funded (at least partially) by the Miami Forever Bond. Total grant funding received: approximately $138 million for neighborhood projects. Key projects include Edgewater (final permitting, $40 million), East Flagami Pump Station (under construction), and Brickell Bay Drive seawall (design-build, elevation raised to 8 feet). - Sea Level Rise & Groundwater: Models considered 1.5 ft and 2.5 ft sea level rise; seawalls built to elevation 6 ft with ability to increase to 8 ft; new pump stations are being planned to address high tide/rain coincidence. - Challenges: The 20-year timeline is "not feasible" at current funding levels. To fully implement the plan, the city would need approximately $250 million per year (equivalent to a $100 stormwater fee per ERU). Construction costs have increased 20-30% faster than anticipated. - Coordinated Actions: Working with developers, CRAs, and county on cost-sharing; updating design standards; increasing stormwater maintenance frequency (from 5 years to 2 years); incorporating water quality improvements (exfiltration, pollution control devices). Budget Workshop Recommendations Update - Discussion: The committee reviewed a draft memorandum of budget recommendations, striking items 1 and 2 (regarding a stormwater design standards manual, as staff indicated existing drainage standards already address the need). Items 3 (incorporating NOAA Atlas 15 rainfall data), 4 (funding for Sponge Program implementation), 5 (inland street pilot for Southwest Streetscape Master Plan), and 6 (tree-related funding readiness) were retained. Item 7 (green-gray hybrid cost estimating) was struck as redundant. - Vote: Motion to approve the amended budget recommendations passed with 2 ayes, 1 nay. The nay vote came from a member who requested additional language regarding heat/salt-tolerant tree species selection for item 5 and citizen science data incorporation for item 6, which was not added. Old Business: Sponge Program Resolution - Update: The Sponge Program resolution, sponsored by Commissioners Pardo and Rosato, with additional sponsorship by Mayor Higgins, Commissioner Escolona, and Chairwoman King, was expedited and passed unanimously at the last City Commission meeting. - Next Steps: The city manager is directed to evaluate candidate sites for sponge parks, coordinate with the county on parcel acquisition, assess cost estimates, and report back to the commission on feasibility within 125 days. Office of Resilience and Sustainability Updates - Bloomberg Grant: Awarded $50,000 for the Bloomberg Youth Climate Action Fund, providing microgrants for youth-led climate projects. - London Climate Week: Mayor Higgins represented Miami, speaking on urban resilience, climate finance, and clean energy. - Tree Giveaways: Next round tentatively scheduled for October 2026. - Tree Advisory Committee: First meeting confirmed for July 13, 2026, 9 AM to 12 PM at City Hall. The City Commission directed an increase in membership from 10 to 11 to include a CRC appointee. Key Outcomes - Budget Recommendations Approved (2-1): The committee voted to forward a memorandum to the City Commission with four specific funding recommendations: incorporate NOAA Atlas 15 data, earmark funds for Sponge Program implementation, pilot an inland street design from the Southwest Streetscape Master Plan, and allocate dollars for outcomes of the Tree Advisory Committee. - Sponge Program Advancing: Unanimous commission support positions the program for formal feasibility study. - Stormwater Master Plan Status: Progress is being made on priority projects, but significant funding gaps remain—full implementation at current revenue is "not feasible" within 20 years. The city is pursuing grants, leveraging private development, and coordinating with county/state projects to maximize return on investment. - Meeting Adjourned: The next regular CRC meeting is scheduled for September 21, 2026.

The Planning, Zoning and Appeals Board (PZAB) of the City of Miami met on July 1, 2026, at 11:30 AM. The board considered three items: (1) an amendment to the Miami Design District Retail Street Special Area Plan (MDD SAP), (2) an amendment to traffic study requirements, and (3) a discussion item on the Little River Transit Station Neighborhood District (TSND). The board approved the first two items with conditions and discussed the third item in preparation for a future vote. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke on any of the agenda items. Discussion Items 1. MDD SAP Amendment (File ID 19474) - Staff Presentation: Samantha Maldonado (Planning Department) presented the sixth amendment to the MDD SAP, which includes adding four new parcels (totaling 0.408 acres) to the SAP boundaries, updating the regulating plan (definitions, frontages, setbacks, rooftop elements, signage, parking, etc.), and updating the concept book. The changes align the SAP with recent Miami 21 amendments and provide flexibility for uses such as habitable roofs, signage per tenant, and reduced retail glazing (from 50% to 40% by right, with further reductions via SAP permit). - Applicant Presentation: Nissan Kazan and Marissa Amuel (Akerman LLP) representing the Miami Design District Associates highlighted the district’s public benefits, including over $120 million in investments (e.g., ICA museum, public art, landscaping). They emphasized that many amendments simply bring the SAP in line with the citywide code changes adopted since 2012. - Board Discussion: Board members raised concerns about the term “habitable roof” (fearing it could be misinterpreted as residential space), the definition of “compact stall” (7.5 ft by 15 ft), retail glazing reductions, and the removal of certain parking proximity requirements. Staff clarified that “habitable” is defined in the code to allow only amenity or commercial uses, not sleeping quarters, and that the signage changes are per-tenant rather than aggregated. The build-to zone flexibility (10-foot setback variation) was also questioned but explained as by-right under Miami 21. - Vote/Outcome: Motion to approve with conditions (textual change to clarify habitable roof language was suggested but not formally adopted). The motion passed 9–0 (Board member Chris Collins recused himself due to a conflict of interest). 2. Traffic Study Requirements Amendment (File ID 19463) - Staff Presentation: Colin Wirth (Resilience Public Works) presented an ordinance amending Chapter 62 to update traffic statement and traffic impact study requirements. Key changes: replacing the requirement for a Florida PE with a traffic engineer certified in transportation operations, and aligning trip thresholds with Miami-Dade County standards (20–99 peak-hour trips = traffic statement; 100+ = level 2 traffic study). - Board Discussion: Board members asked about the elimination of independent traffic engineer studies and the methodology for determining trip generation. Staff clarified that the zoning department determines trip counts using the ITE manual. The amendment was noted as having passed first reading at City Commission. - Vote/Outcome: Motion to approve passed 8–2 (Board members Paula De Carlos and Mario Bailey voted no). 3. Little River Transit Station Neighborhood District (Discussion Item – File ID 19517) - Staff Presentation: Ryan Schidd (Chief of Comprehensive Planning) and Paul Genovese (Chief of Urban Design) presented the first TSND application under the new TOD node legislation. The Little River TSND encompasses 101 parcels across three areas (≈60 acres) around the existing Tri-Rail corridor. The proposal includes a new train station, a circulator, over 5,700 affordable/workforce housing units, enhanced open space (15% vs. 10% required), parking exceeding minimums, and community benefits such as job training and free Wi-Fi. Heights are proposed up to 30 stories, with a maximum of 24–30 floors within the master plan. The applicant is SG Little River, selected through a county RFP for redevelopment of public housing sites (Victory Homes and Gwen Cherry/Newburgh). - Board Discussion: Board members expressed concerns about height transitions (24–30 stories in a low-rise area), traffic congestion, and the need for more programmed civic space (beyond the 15% open space). Staff noted that the TSND is a master plan floor, not a fixed building design, and that each building will go through individual permitting. Board members requested additional information for the next meeting: a map of existing parks and green spaces, a breakdown of parking by type, flood zone analysis, a county vs. city property map, and details on the circulator route. The applicant confirmed ongoing community outreach (meetings in March, May, and June 2025–2026). - Outcome: No vote. The exception application will be heard at the next PZAB meeting in two weeks. Staff will incorporate the requested details into the presentation. Key Outcomes - Item 1 (MDD SAP Amendment): Approved 9–0. The SAP expansion and updates will proceed with conditions. - Item 2 (Traffic Study Amendment): Approved 8–2. The ordinance updating traffic study requirements will advance to City Commission. - Item 3 (Little River TSND): Discussion only. The board will consider the exception application at a future meeting. Staff will provide additional information on open space, parking, flood zones, and community outreach.