Public Meetings - Miami Dade County, Florida

On November 14, 2025, the Miami-Dade County Government Efficiency & Transparency Ad Hoc Committee met at 10:00 AM in Commission Chambers. The meeting was chaired by Juan Carlos Bermudez, with Commissioner Danielle Cohen Higgins and Vice Chairwoman Natalie Milian Orbis present. Commissioner Raquel A. Regalado was absent. The meeting featured presentations on parks efficiency, an airport hotel update, and a discussion on single-trade permits, alongside a public comment period. Public Comments & Testimony - Ian Cohen, President and COO of Inspected, a private provider of plan review and inspection services operating in nearly 400 Florida municipalities, testified that the Miami-Dade building departments are "wasting time and money adopting and enforcing policies that are not consistent with state statutes," causing delays over a year and increased costs for contractors. He stated that the city is completely indemnified from liability when a private provider performs inspections or plan reviews, and that contractors are required by law to receive a permit discount when using a private provider. Discussion Items - Parks, Recreation and Open Spaces (PROS) Presentation (Item 1E1): Director Christina White presented on efficiencies and transparency, highlighting 308 parks, 40,000 acres, and 60 recreation centers. She noted a 56% reduction in field striping costs via mobile painting robots, 154 million gallons of water saved through smart irrigation, and a 50% improvement in work completion rates after reorganizing into three regional hubs. The department has a $290 million total budget with a $124 million general fund subsidy—a $13 million reduction from the previous year. Deferred maintenance stands at over $550 million. The department asked for support in prioritizing aging infrastructure, curbing unfunded requests, and updating partner agreements. - Airport Hotel Update (Item 1E2): Ralph Sarabet from the Miami-Dade Aviation Department reported that the airport hotel project, awarded to FDR in October 2022 and with an effective agreement date of August 2023, is delayed due to an FAA height requirement that necessitated a redesign. The original presentation to the commission promised hotel operations beginning June 2026, but the agreement allows completion by 2029. The department submitted revised coordinates to the FAA on August 15, 2025, and expects a response in early 2026. Committee members expressed frustration over the lack of progress and communication. - Single-Trade Permits Discussion (Item 1F1): Lourdes Gomez (RER), Jamie Gaskin (Board of Rules and Appeals), and Edward Rojas (UMSA Building Official) discussed delays in permit closures when private providers are used, attributing them to building officials needing to perform additional checks (zoning, flood, etc.) outside the private provider's scope. Rojas noted that single-trade permits in UMSA are typically over-the-counter with 24-hour turnaround, and inspections can be done next day or same-day virtually. Private provider utilization in UMSA is in the single digits. The committee requested a written breakdown of timelines and processes. - Landfill-to-Park Proposal (Chairman Bermudez): Chairman Bermudez presented a proposal to convert an old landfill adjacent to the future regional soccer park (660 acres, approved by voters in 2012) into a park, citing successful examples in Broward County (Vista View Park) and other states. He emphasized the need for a countywide asset. Key Outcomes - A motion to approve the agenda was passed by voice vote (all aye). - Item 6A (approval of committee minutes for February 13, March 13, and May 13, 2025) was approved by voice vote (all aye), with a scrivener's error noted that the July 2025 minutes were not included. - The committee directed the building and regulatory departments to provide a report on single-trade permit timelines and processes. - The aviation department was directed to keep all committee members informed of the FAA's response on the hotel redesign, with an update expected in early 2026.

The Miami-Dade Port and Resiliency Committee met on November 13, 2025, at 1:00 PM in Commission Chambers. The meeting was chaired by Commissioner Micky Steinberg, with Vice Chairman Keon Hardemon and members Juan Carlos Bermudez, Danielle Cohen Higgins, and Oliver G. Gilbert III present. The committee reviewed and forwarded several resolutions to the full Board of County Commissioners (BCC), including new programs, utility contracts, and a major cruise terminal agreement. A total of 11 items were on the agenda, with three items pulled for discussion: items 2A, 3D, and 3F. One item, 3H, was added to the agenda late and will be placed on the next meeting's agenda. Consent Calendar - Agenda items not pulled were approved unanimously (3-0) without discussion, including: item 2B (resolution for neighborhood planning in District 8), item 3A (up to $490,000 from the Biscayne Bay Environmental Enhancement Trust Fund for Baynanza 2026-2030), item 3B (acceptance of 19 environmentally endangered lands covenants), item 3C (establishment of the Department of Solid Waste Management DSWM Cares Program), item 3E (property exchange in Sweetwater, Florida), item 3G (Master Joint Participation Agreement between Miami-Dade County and the City of Miami for utility work), and item 6A (approval of the Clerk's Summary of Minutes from September 10, 2025). Public Comments & Testimony - Item 2B: Ephraimunez of 16062 Southwest 287th Street, Homestead, Florida, speaking on behalf of the "concerned citizens of South Dade," expressed full support for the resolution directing neighborhood planning exercises and the possible development of a community-specific thematic zoning district in District 8. The speaker noted they had been working with the commissioner on the item. Discussion Items - Item 2A: Commissioner Juan Carlos Bermudez, prime sponsor, presented a resolution amending Resolution No. R-1051-21 to direct the County Mayor or designee to evaluate the feasibility of using Miami-Dade County parks as land for a county-owned mitigation bank and to include findings in the required final report. The resolution also requires the final report to be placed on the BCC agenda within 60 days. The item was forwarded to the BCC with a favorable recommendation (3-0). - Items 3D and 3F: Both items involved change orders that significantly increased contract amounts for water and sewer projects. Commissioner Bermudez and Chair Steinberg expressed concerns about cost overruns and the frequency of change orders, with Bermudez emphasizing the need for better mapping and utility coordination to avoid surprises. The administration explained that additional work was identified during construction; for 3D, the change allowed 180 additional properties to be connected to the sewer system cost-effectively, while for 3F, a redundant water line could be rehabilitated at lower cost with the existing contractor. - Item 3H: A resolution approving the third amendment to the third amended and restated cruise terminal agreement with NCL (Bahamas) Ltd., with an estimated positive fiscal impact of $851,092,213. The item was added to the agenda late and, due to time constraints, was not voted on; Chair Steinberg committed to placing it on the next committee agenda. Key Outcomes - Approved the consent calendar (including item 2B) unanimously (3-0). - Forwarded items 2A, 2B, 3A, 3B, 3C, 3D, 3E, and 3F to the full BCC with favorable recommendations (3-0). - Item 3H was not voted on; it will be placed on the next Port and Resiliency Committee agenda. - Clerk's minutes from September 10, 2025, approved (3-0).

The Miami-Dade Appropriations Committee met on November 13, 2025, to consider a full agenda including budget oversight, procurement extensions, and a proposed Community-Based Organization (CBO) Trust Fund. The committee voted on several items, deferred the CBO Trust Fund ordinance, and forwarded most resolutions to the full Board of County Commissioners (BCC) with favorable recommendations. Public Comments & Testimony - Multiple speakers, including representatives of Breakthrough Miami and other CBOs, expressed strong support for the CBO Trust Fund (1G1), emphasizing the need for stable funding for human services organizations. Speakers highlighted the impact on youth, families, and vulnerable residents. - Jacqueline Stryker, a security officer and SEIU 32BJ member, spoke in support of items 3D and 3E, urging approval of the security guard contract extensions. Discussion Items - Fiscal Update: Chief Administrative Officer Carla Denise Edwards presented on fiscal headwinds facing the county, including a $64.9 million reduction from HB 7031 (elimination of business rent tax and surtax on commercial leases), which has impacted the Countywide Infrastructure Investment Program (CIIP). She noted the need for new revenue sources and efficiency initiatives. - Item 2A – Monthly Report on Vacant Positions: Commissioner Regalado pulled the item, expressing concerns about the impact on departments with specialized engineering positions. Administration noted potential workload and misleading information. The item was forwarded. - Item 3A – CRA Expansion for NW 7th Avenue Corridor: Commissioner Cohen Higgins voiced initial opposition but later supported after a sunshine meeting with Commissioner Bastien. An amendment was adopted to revise boundaries, and the item was forwarded. - Items 3D and 3E – Security Guard Contract Extensions: Discussion centered on extending contracts three years before expiration. Administration argued it locks in current pricing, ensures service continuity, and avoids a "fire drill" procurement. Some commissioners expressed concern about setting a precedent for non-competitive extensions. Both items were forwarded. - Item 1G1 – CBO Trust Fund Ordinance: Commissioner McGhee presented the ordinance to create a trust fund funded by a 2% deduction on eligible county purchases. Administration estimated it would generate only $4-5 million annually, far less than the $80 million in CBO funding. Concerns included impact on small businesses, piggybacking, and potential pass-through costs to taxpayers. Commissioner Cohen Higgins advocated for a voter referendum. The item was deferred 60 days to January 2026 for further work. - Items 2B and 2C – Reports on Legacy CBOs: 2B was withdrawn; 2C was forwarded with a recommendation to merge with 2B at the full BCC. Key Outcomes - Deferred: Item 1G1 (CBO Trust Fund) – deferred 5-0 to January 2026 committee meeting. - Forwarded with favorable recommendation (all 5-0): Items 2A, 2C, 2E, 2F, 2G, 3A (as amended), 3B, 3C, 3D, 3E, 3F. - Withdrawn: Items 2B and 2D. - Approved: Item 6A (minutes) – 5-0. - Next Steps: The committee recommended that items 2B and 2C be combined at the full BCC. The CBO Trust Fund will be revisited in January after further stakeholder discussions.

The Miami-Dade Airport Committee convened on November 13, 2025, at 9:00 AM in Commission Chambers to consider a series of aviation-related contracts, amendments, and reports. The committee met with a quorum of four members present (Commissioners Gilbert, Hardemon, Milian Orbis, Gonzalez, and Chairwoman Cohen Higgins) and took unanimous action on all items, forwarding them to the full County Commission with favorable recommendations. Public Comments & Testimony - Eric Zekela (2035 North Miami Avenue) spoke in support of Item 3A Substitute, urging the committee to pass the resolution so that the project could proceed promptly. He noted that bids have been pending for a long time and that securing subcontractor pricing is critical. Discussion Items - Chairwoman Cohen Higgins requested updates on two ongoing matters: - Bristol Hangar Negotiations: Airport Director provided a brief update, stating that active negotiations are underway, with a meeting scheduled for November 14 to receive two appraisals, and negotiations scheduled for November 17–21. The goal is to bring an item to the board for waiver approval at the first meeting in December. - AOC Procurement: The director confirmed that the procurement is on schedule for the 90-day timeline set by the board, with the award item expected back within that period. - The committee also addressed a request to forward Item 3A Substitute to the next BCC agenda, which the department supported. Key Outcomes All votes were 4-0 in favor, with no opposition or discussion on individual items: - Item 3A Substitute: Resolution rejecting all bids for Project U010D-1 (Satellite E New Chiller Plant at MIA), waiving competitive bidding, and awarding a non-competitive contract to Magnum Construction Management, LLC for $29,259,230.00. Forwarded to BCC with favorable recommendation. - Item 3B: Resolution approving a contract with Winmar Construction, Inc. for the MIA New Building 3053 project, $18,349,699.70. Forwarded to BCC. - Item 3C: Resolution approving the first amendment to the Duty-Free Americas Miami lease, revising financial obligations. Forwarded to BCC. - Item 3D: Resolution approving a retroactive first amendment to the Global Concessions lease, adjusting rental payments for support space. Forwarded to BCC. - Item 3E: Resolution approving the first amendment with Hill International, Inc. for capital improvement program services, increasing contract amount by $15,608,925.00 to $51,448,300.00. Forwarded to BCC. - Item 3F: Resolution approving the second amendment with Turner & Townsend Heery, LLC, increasing contract amount by $18,546,250.00 to $54,385,625.00. Forwarded to BCC. - Item 3G: Resolution authorizing additional expenditure authority of $22,850,000.00 for cost estimating and scheduling services, for a total modified contract amount of $55,934,000.00. Forwarded to BCC. - Item 3H: Resolution approving award of contract for management and operation of public parking facilities at MIA to Airport Parking Associates, estimated $5,330,704.00 for a five-year term with one five-year renewal option. Forwarded to BCC. - Item 3I: Resolution authorizing a non-competitive purchase for airport security communications, additional $2,368,608.00, for a total modified contract amount of $28,222,670.00. Forwarded to BCC. - Item 6A: Approval of the Clerk's Summary of Minutes for the October 16, 2025 Airport Committee meeting. Approved. - Item 7A & 7B: Aviation Capital Program Reports for October and November 2025. Received and filed. The meeting adjourned without further business.

The Miami-Dade Housing Committee convened on November 12, 2025, at 1:00 PM local time (18:45 UTC) to consider four resolutions concerning public housing redevelopment, compliance with federal housing directives, and rental assistance administration. All items were approved unanimously (3-0) and waived to the full Board of County Commissioners (BCC) meeting scheduled for November 18, 2025. Public Comments & Testimony - Yolanda Davis (address: 6336 NW 24th Place, not the address on file) described homelessness in her area, citing sleep disruption from late-night conversations near her bedroom window and drug addicts entering a nearby property. She expressed frustration with lack of police response. Chair Bastien arranged for staff to assist her. - Sharon Fraser (address: 6516 NW 12th Avenue) expressed support for Item 2B, noting that the U.S. Housing Act protections are important. She thanked Commissioners McGhee and Bastien for visiting her senior center and mentioned a job fair at the Joseph Caleb building. She also requested orientation for residents on new appliances and amenities. - Roy Hardman (self-identified as a resident advocate) reminded the committee that the Model City CHC neighborhood revitalization strategy area meets on the third Wednesday at 6 PM. He expressed support for Item 2B. - Rainita Holmes (District 5) expressed support for Items 2A and 2B, but noted that federal regulations regarding persons with disabilities and HQS inspection standards are not always applied. She urged the committee to ensure that public housing moving toward Section 8 includes proper accommodations for people with disabilities. - A resident (name not fully captured) reported being verbally abused by staff at a rental office and cited high rent quotes ($15,000-$16,000 for a one-bedroom) that she could not afford on Social Security. Chair Bastien directed staff to assist. Discussion Items - Commissioner Regalado raised a question about using a standard lease and development agreement that her office had previously developed for competitive bidding. She noted that although the current items are not competitively bid, using the same standardized agreement could expedite financing and approval. Nathan Cogan (Housing and Community Development) responded that for Chair Bastien's item (2C) the standardized agreement would be appropriate, but for Commissioner McGhee's item (2A) which involves a for-sale product, a different form would be needed. - Item 2A (Prime Sponsor: Kionne L. McGhee) – Resolution declaring four county-owned public housing developments (Arthur Mays Villas, Naranja, Modello II, Pine Island) as surplus for affordable homeownership redevelopment by SG South Miami-Dade Ventures, LLC. The resolution directs due diligence, negotiation of a lease/development agreement, and HUD consent for non-competitive disposition. - Item 2B (Prime Sponsor: Raquel A. Regalado; Co-Sponsors: Juan Carlos Bermudez, Sen. Rene Garcia) – Resolution reaffirming directives from Resolution R-753-13 (adopted under the U.S. Housing Act of 1937) regarding public housing redevelopment. It directs the County Mayor to provide copies to all developers, submit monthly reports, and ensure compliance. - Item 2C (Prime Sponsor: Marleine Bastien) – Resolution declaring surplus properties (Kline Nunn, Little River Plaza, Little River Terrace, and a vacant lot) in District 2 for affordable rental and homeownership redevelopment by PCSH Little River Redevelopment, LLC (an affiliate of Pinnacle Communities II and Smith & Henzy Affordable Group). The resolution seeks HUD consent for non-competitive disposition and a $15 million allocation from the Resilient Florida Grant Program for improvements in the Little River Adaptation Action Area. - Item 3A (Prime Sponsor: Marleine Bastien) – Resolution ratifying the County Mayor's action in issuing a Request for Applications for a fiscal agent to administer rental assistance funding under HUD's Continuum of Care program, and authorizing a contract with MDG Associates, LLC. - Waiver Request: The committee voted to waive all items (2A, 2B, 2C, 3A) to the November 18, 2025, BCC meeting, subject to the chair's approval and ensuring adequate public hearing advertisement for the public hearing items (2A and 2C). Key Outcomes - All four resolutions were forwarded to the BCC with a favorable recommendation by a vote of 3-0 (Commissioners Bastien, McGhee, and Regalado; Vice Chairman Gonzalez was absent). - Items 2A, 2B, 2C, and 3A were waived to the November 18, 2025, BCC meeting for final consideration. - Commissioner McGhee delivered a closing statement emphasizing the trauma experienced by residents in marginalized communities and the importance of recognizing their voices as expressions of real hardship. He urged the committee to address trauma as a prerequisite to fighting poverty. - Chair Bastien concurred and noted that she had personally visited the housing sites referenced by public speakers, accompanied by staff and developers, to observe conditions directly. She also paid tribute to former state representative Roy Hardeman (who recently passed away), praising his advocacy for the Ponciana development and his tireless community service.

On November 12, 2025, the Miami-Dade Transportation Committee convened at 9:00 AM with three members present (Commissioner Bastien, Senator Garcia, Vice Chairwoman Regalado), establishing a quorum. The committee addressed three agenda items, including two public hearings on zoning and transit zone expansion, and a resolution on the Title VI program. All items were forwarded to the Board of County Commissioners (BCC) with favorable recommendations. Public Comments & Testimony - Item 1G1 (Rapid Transit Zone Expansion): Melissa Fernandez Ciders, speaking on behalf of the City of Miami, requested denial or continuance of the ordinance. She argued that the expansion would transfer regulatory authority from the city to the county, contrary to the county charter, and noted a pending lawsuit challenging the county's authority. The litigation is in discovery; the county's motion to dismiss was denied in August 2025. No mediation has occurred since July 2024. - Item 1G2 (Trail Connector Sub-district): Jeff Burkow spoke in support of the ordinance, stating it would allow development of remnant FEC parcels along SW 70th Avenue while requiring a multi-use path connecting the Ludlum Trail and The Underline, consistent with comprehensive plan policies. Discussion Items - Item 1G1 – Ordinance Relating to Rapid Transit System-Development Zone: The committee discussed the status of litigation with the City of Miami. Commissioner Regalado noted that Commissioner Oliver Gilbert and the City of Miami Mayor had been designated to handle settlement, but no subsequent meetings or mediations had occurred since July 2024. The committee voted to forward the item to BCC with a favorable recommendation (3-0). - Item 1G2 – Ordinance Relating to Zoning in Unincorporated Area (Downtown Kendall Urban Center Trail Connector Sub-district): Vice Chairwoman Regalado, the prime sponsor, explained the sub-district applies to narrow, irregular parcels along the west side of SW 70th Avenue. The project aims to activate the area behind Dadeland, provide housing, and create a trail connector. The committee voted to forward the item to BCC (3-0). - Item 1G3 – Resolution Approving Updated 2025 Title VI Program: No public speakers were present. The committee voted to forward the resolution to BCC (3-0). Key Outcomes - All three items (1G1, 1G2, 1G3) were approved unanimously (3-0) and forwarded to the Board of County Commissioners with favorable recommendations. - The committee chair requested that all items be moved to the next BCC meeting, with no objections.

The Miami-Dade Recreation and Tourism Committee met on November 10, 2025, at 1:00 PM (agenda time) under Chairman Sen. Rene Garcia. The meeting included an invocation, Pledge of Allegiance, and a moment of silence for a fallen deputy. The committee reviewed several items, including an ordinance updating the Children's Trust board, a resolution for an online pet registration portal, and a lease for a Haulover Marina restaurant. A major discussion focused on park budget reductions and the impact on capital projects, particularly Amelia Earhart Park. Consent Calendar - Item 2B: Resolution directing the County Mayor to evaluate an online portal for dog owners to submit status updates and pay pet registration fees. Forwarded to BCC with a favorable recommendation (4-0). - Item 3A: Acceptance of a warranty deed for Tract A of Golden Park Subdivision (Parks, Recreation and Open Spaces). Forwarded to BCC (4-0). - Item 3B: Acceptance of a warranty deed for Tract C of Bailes Commons Second Addition Subdivision. Forwarded to BCC (4-0). - Item 3D: Historic preservation ad valorem tax exemption for 112 Alhambra Circle, Coral Gables. Forwarded to BCC (4-0). - Item 3E: Historic preservation tax exemption for 1206 Cordova Street, Coral Gables. Forwarded to BCC (4-0). - Item 3F: Historic preservation tax exemption for 3701 Durango Street, Coral Gables. Forwarded to BCC (4-0). - Item 3G: Lease agreement for Haulover Marina-front restaurant (20-year initial term, two 10-year options, projected revenue $53,000,000). Forwarded to BCC (4-0). Commissioner Micky Steinberg noted it was a long time coming. - Item 6A: Approval of the Clerk's summary of minutes for the October 14, 2025 meeting. Approved (4-0). Public Comments & Testimony No members of the public testified during the reasonable opportunity to be heard. Discussion Items Item 2A – Ordinance Relating to the Children's Trust - Prime Sponsor Sen. Rene Garcia presented an ordinance to amend Chapter 2, Article CIII of the Miami-Dade County Code to revise governing board membership and term limits per Florida Statute 125.901. The item had been deferred from October 14, 2025. - Commissioner Micky Steinberg proposed an amendment adding an aspirational requirement that appointing entities consider appointing Miami-Dade County residents for positions appointed by title (e.g., state attorney, FIU). The amendment was adopted without objection. - Commissioner Marleine Bastien expressed concern about losing community representation on the board. She noted she was a founding coordinator of the Children's Trust and emphasized the importance of community input, especially during a time of crisis. She asked if a mechanism could be created to receive feedback from community organizations. The Children's Trust representative Amanda Gorski explained the board has 33 members, including five at-large seats representing the community. Chairman Garcia suggested that if Commissioner Bastien's concerns were not addressed, she could bring back a proposal. The item was passed as amended by a roll call vote of 4-0. Item 1F1 – Park Update: Impact of Budget Reductions on Parks and Update on Amelia Earhart Park - Chairman Garcia initiated a discussion, noting he had met with park personnel and the Mayor's office. He stated that during budget hearings, he was under the impression parks would be held harmless, but subsequent information indicated cuts. He requested specific data on staff reductions, operational impacts, and capital project status. - Budget Director Mr. Coley explained that the state's House Bill 7031 reduced the county's non-ad valorem tax revenue by $26.2 million, and overall the county lost $64.9 million in non-ad valorem revenue. This reduced the Countywide Infrastructure Improvement Plan (CIIP) for parks, which totals over $369 million. For the 2025-2026 budget, $73 million was removed from the parks program due to these cuts. - Parks Director Christina White reported that 49 full-time positions were eliminated from the department (now 1,571 FTEs). The cuts were surgical: mostly administrative staff, communications team, some recreation center management, and three security guards. She noted that 46 of the 49 employees were placed in other county positions. Lifeguards at pools were not eliminated except at specialized facilities during off-peak hours. - Commissioner Bastien noted that in District 2, over 30 funded projects were defunded, leaving only six funded. She expressed frustration that the state budget impacts were known before county budget hearings, yet the information was not provided to commissioners. She called for a meeting with the Mayor. - Chairman Garcia stated he had sent a memo requesting detailed historical data on the SIP (CIIP) program for the last five years, current year funding, and future projections, with a deadline of November 21, 2025. He emphasized the importance of parks, referencing their role during COVID-19, and vowed to fight for fair funding for Amelia Earhart Park and all district parks. - The committee also recognized a positive development: Amelia Earhart Park will host the Ripley's Believe It or Not Christmas Park starting that Thursday and running for three weeks. Key Outcomes - Item 2A (Children's Trust ordinance) passed as amended by a 4-0 roll call vote. The amendment adds an aspirational residency requirement for position-based appointees. The item will be forwarded to the full Board of County Commissioners (BCC). - Item 2B (pet registration portal) forwarded to BCC with a favorable recommendation (4-0). - Item 3G (Haulover lease) forwarded to BCC with a favorable recommendation (4-0). - Item 3C (Zoo operating agreement) deferred to no date certain by a 4-0 vote. - All consent items (3A, 3B, 3D, 3E, 3F, 6A) were approved unanimously. - For the park discussion, Chairman Garcia directed the administration to provide a detailed report on SIP funding and project status by November 21, 2025. A meeting with the Mayor was requested to discuss budget cuts and their impact on parks.

The Miami-Dade Board of County Commissioners held its regular meeting on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, beginning at 9:30 AM in the Commission Chambers. The meeting covered a wide range of items including special recognitions, consent items, public hearings, ordinances on first and second reading, and numerous departmental and commissioner-sponsored resolutions. Key highlights included the termination of a federal consent decree for the corrections department, adoption of a peafowl mitigation policy for District 12 and District 7, approval of a land exchange for the Harry Cain public housing site, and discussions on the sale of the historic county courthouse. Special Presentations - Recognition of Miami-Dade Corrections Department: The Board recognized the department for distinguished service and the termination of the consent decree agreement after over 13 years of federal oversight. Mayor Daniella Levine Cava called it the greatest achievement of her administration. The day was proclaimed "We Did It Day." (Item 1D1) - Miami-Dade Farmers Month and South Dade Future Farmers of America: The Board recognized November as Farmers Month and proclaimed November 4, 2025, as South Dade Future Farmers of America Day. Agriculture is the second-largest economic driver in the county after tourism. (Item 1D2) Consent Calendar - All items on the consent calendar were approved by a single vote, including: - Approvals of allocations from various district discretionary reserves (Items 3A1–3A8) - Grant application to EPA for air pollution control program (Item 3B1) - Several resolutions regarding community development districts, property sales, and board appointments Public Comments & Testimony - Harry Warren attempted to speak on a non-agenda item (his taekwondo program) but was ruled out of order by the Chair. - Brett Brummond (Goldstein Environmental Law Firm) requested a deferral of item 5D (Miami Country Day School brownfield designation) to December 2, 2025, to align with a pending zoning hearing. The deferral was granted unanimously. Discussion Items - Item 7A – Peafowl Mitigation Policy for District 12: The Board adopted an ordinance allowing the county to opt out of peafowl regulations in unincorporated areas. Commissioner Raquel Regalado then successfully moved to approve a similar policy for District 7, funded from District 7 funds. Both policies are identical. - Item 7B – Billboard Regulations: The Board adopted amendments revising definitions and poster board replacement rules for non-conforming billboards. Passed 11-1 after a committee amendment requiring property owner consent. - Item 11A1 – Mapton Holdings Exchange Agreement: The Board approved an amendment to accept $6,546,424 in lieu of construction of county facilities, with funds directed to affordable housing development and a satellite office for the District 3 commissioner. - Item 11A3 – Report on Inactive Boards: The Board directed the mayor to report which county boards have not met in one year, including fiscal analysis and staff expenditure authority, within 45 days. The report will consider sunsetting boards. - Item 11A11 – South Dade Transitway Use by First Responders: The Board rescinded prior resolution R-445-14 and established new policy governing use of the transitway by law enforcement and fire rescue vehicles for emergency and response time purposes. Passed 11-1. - Item 14A2 – Hurricane Melissa Relief: The Board authorized county employees to donate accrued leave time to the Emergency Disaster Relief Fund for hurricane relief in Jamaica, with donations designated to Global Empowerment Mission and Food for the Poor, Inc. Passed 11-0. - Item 14A4 – Food Assistance During Federal Shutdown: Commissioner Oliver Gilbert moved to allocate up to $1,000,000 for food assistance during the SNAP benefit disruption. Amended to require the mayor to report funding source and return remaining funds once SNAP is restored. Passed 12-0. - Sale of Historic Courthouse: After extensive debate, the Board voted to cease negotiations with the sole bidder and proceed with a public auction. The item will come back to the Board for approval. Key conditions include a minimum purchase price based on market research, historic preservation covenants, and outreach to local entities. Key Outcomes - Corrections Proclamation: Unanimous adoption of proclamation recognizing consent decree termination. - Farmers Month Proclamation: Unanimous adoption. - First Reading Ordinances (Items 4A–4D): All adopted unanimously on first reading. - Public Hearing Items (Items 5A–5G, 14A1): All adopted except 5D deferred to December 2, 2025. Items 5A–5C, 5E–5G, and 14A1 passed unanimously. - Second Reading Ordinances (Items 7A, 7B): Both adopted; 7A passed 12-0, 7B passed 11-1. - Consent Agenda Items: All passed as part of single motion. - Commissioner Resolutions: Items 11A1 (amended), 11A2 (adopted), 11A3 (amended to 1-year report), 11A4 (adopted), 11A9 (sympathy resolution for Sen. René Garcia's father), 11A10 (workforce solution funding), 11A11 (transitway), 11A12 (RISE program) – all passed with varying votes. - Items Subject to 4-Day Rule: 14A1 (land conveyance for affordable housing) adopted; 14A2 (employee leave donation) adopted; 14A3 (STEM grant for Bunche West Park) adopted; 14A4 (food assistance) adopted as amended. - Miscellaneous: Commissioner Eileen Higgins announced this was her last meeting. She made final allocations and passed leadership of several items to colleagues.

The Miami-Dade County Board of County Commissioners (BCC) met on October 23, 2025, to consider comprehensive development master plan (CDMP) amendments and zoning items. The meeting began at 9:30 AM with invocation, pledge, and roll call. Seven members were initially present, reaching a quorum; additional members arrived later. The agenda was set unanimously. Items deferred from previous meetings and new applications were heard, with all votes passing unanimously. Discussion Items 3A – Small-Scale CDMP Amendment (Application CDMP20250001) - Applicant NE 6th Ave, Inc. sought to redesignate a 0.25‑acre vacant lot at the southwest corner of NE 149th Street and NE 6th Avenue from Low Density Residential to Business Office to permit a 5,200‑square‑foot retail commercial building. The applicant noted the site had been vacant for over 25 years and that the maximum allowed floor area (12,545 sq ft) was not being pursued. Staff recommended approval, contingent on acceptance of a declaration of restrictions. Commissioner Bastien moved to adopt staff recommendation. The board voted 8–0 in favor, with Commissioner Bastien, Bermudez, Cohen Higgins, Milian Orbis, Regalado, Steinberg, Vice Chairman McGee, and Chairman Rodriguez voting yes. The companion resolution (3A1) was withdrawn due to final action. 4A – Standard CDMP Amendment (Out‑of‑Cycle Application CDMP20240020) - Prime sponsor Commissioner Regalado presented this staff‑initiated application to amend the Future Natural Resources section of the Land Use Element and Policy CM‑1A of the Coastal Management Element of the CDMP. No public speakers. The resolution for transmittal and the first‑reading ordinance were adopted together by a 9–0 vote (Commissioners Bermudez, Cohen Higgins, Hardeman, Milian Orbis, Regalado, Steinberg, Bastien, Vice Chairman McGee, and Chairman Rodriguez voting yes). The item was transmitted to the state land planning agency for review, with final action reserved for a later date. 4B – Standard CDMP Amendment (January 2025 Cycle Application CDMP20250002) - Filed by Atlantic Civil, Inc., this application requested amendments for land located south of SW 352nd Street between Card Sound Road and SW 147th Avenue in Florida City. No public speakers. Vice Chairman McGee moved to adopt staff recommendation and transmit with changes in the document. The board voted 9–0 in favor (Commissioners Cohen Higgins, Hardeman, Milian Orbis, Regalado, Steinberg, Bastien, Bermudez, Vice Chairman McGee, and Chairman Rodriguez voting yes). The resolution and first‑reading ordinance were adopted. 8A1 – Zoning Public Hearing (Application Z2024000214) - Applicant Valence Investment 8, LLC sought approval for a use on the east side of NW 27th Avenue, approximately 235 feet south of NW 101st Street. Commissioner Bastien, the district commissioner, requested confirmation that the MCS (Motor‑Car Sales) designation is valid for eight years only, after which the use must change. Staff confirmed the eight‑year limitation. The applicant’s representative committed to installing landscaping along NW 27th Avenue to improve aesthetics while awaiting sewer infrastructure, which is expected by 2028 or shortly after. The board approved staff recommendation by a 9–0 vote (Commissioners Bastien, Bermudez, Cohen Higgins, Hardeman, Milian Orbis, Regalado, Steinberg, Vice Chairman McGee, and Chairman Rodriguez voting yes). 8C2 – Zoning Public Hearing (Application Z2024000272) - Applicant UBC Miami, LLC proposed a project at 1136 NW 8th Avenue and 1157 NW 11th Street Road in the City of Miami. Commissioner Hardeman, the district commissioner, requested a deferral to November 20, 2025, citing the need for further discussions with the developer regarding screening of a parking garage and additional community benefits. The board unanimously deferred the item (9–0). Key Outcomes | Item | Action | Vote | |------|--------|------| | 3A – Small‑scale CDMP (NE 6th Ave) | Adopted (final action) | 8–0 | | 3A1 – Companion resolution | Withdrawn | – | | 4A – Out‑of‑cycle CDMP (Natural Resources) | Adopted on first reading and transmitted | 9–0 | | 4B – Standard CDMP (Florida City) | Adopted on first reading and transmitted | 9–0 | | 8A1 – Valence Investment (auto sales) | Approved staff recommendation | 9–0 | | 8A2 – Miami Country Day School | Deferred to November 20, 2025 | 8–0 | | 8C1 – 1201 Brickell Bay, LLC | Deferred to November 20, 2025 | 8–0 | | 8C2 – UBC Miami, LLC | Deferred to November 20, 2025 | 9–0 | | 8C3 – Garden Place Development | Deferred to November 20, 2025 | 8–0 | | Meeting adjourned | – | – |