Public Meetings - Miami Dade County, Florida

The Miami-Dade Safety and Health Committee convened on July 8, 2025, at 11:00 AM in Commission Chambers. The meeting included a proclamation honoring the Homeland Security Bureau, a presentation on the Commission for Women's CEDAW recommendations, public testimony, a discussion on the State Attorney's misdemeanor diversion program, and the forwarding of several resolutions to the full Board of County Commissioners with favorable recommendations. Special Presentations - Proclamation Declaring July 8, 2025 as "Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office Homeland Security Bureau Day": Chairman Gonzalez presented the proclamation, honoring the bureau's work in keeping the county safe. Multiple commissioners expressed gratitude. - Presentation of the Commission for Women's CEDAW Recommendations Report: Legislative Chair Josephine Novo presented the annual report. Key recommendations included opening two new coordinated victims assistance centers (CVAC), launching a multimedia campaign for CVAC awareness, supporting domestic violence leave policy changes, funding a maternal health resource fair, and conducting a comprehensive wage gap analysis within county employment. The report noted an 84.7% increase in rape, over 300 more domestic violence cases, and a 16.7% wage gap among county employees (women earning $64,522 vs men $77,446). Public Comments & Testimony - Renita Holmes, Executive Founder of Wave of Women in Public Housing, spoke about the disparity in access to safe housing for women exiting the justice system. She urged the county to utilize vacant buildings that were once safe havens for women, and highlighted the difficulty of finding affordable rental housing within 30 days of release. Discussion Items - Discussion Item Regarding State Attorney Office’s Misdemeanor Diversion Services Program (Item 1F1): Chairman Gonzalez and Commissioner Hardemon discussed the program's status. The state attorney's representative indicated that a small point of contention remains but is close to resolution. Commissioner Hardemon confirmed he will speak with the state attorney to finalize details. The program aims to provide second-chance opportunities through diversion for adults and juveniles. Chairman Gonzalez also noted that Miami Dade College’s president expressed interest in supporting the program. Consent Calendar - Resolution Supporting Actions by the Federal Government to Phase Out Synthetic Color Additives (Item 2A): Sponsored by Senator Rene Garcia. The committee voted 4-0 to forward to the BCC with a favorable recommendation. The resolution urges the FDA to revoke authorizations for synthetic color additives, and directs the county mayor to evaluate feasibility of informational programs and incentives for contractors to transition away from synthetic additives. - Resolution Approving a Lease Agreement for Warehouse Space in Doral (Item 3A): Sponsored by Juan Carlos Bermudez. The committee voted 4-0 to forward to the BCC with a favorable recommendation. The lease at 2200 NW 82 Avenue, Doral, will be used by the DOH as warehouse space at no cost to the county for five years plus two five-year renewal options. Key Outcomes - The committee forwarded two resolutions (2A and 3A) to the full Board of County Commissioners with 4-0 favorable recommendations. - The discussion on the misdemeanor diversion program will be resolved through further talks between Commissioner Hardemon and the state attorney, after which it will be scheduled for a future meeting. - Commissioner Higgins noted she will work to fill vacancies on the Fire Safety Board. - Commissioner Hardemon noted he submitted an item for domestic violence leave for county employees.

The Miami-Dade Transportation Committee met on July 8, 2025, at 9:00 AM in Commission Chambers under Chairwoman Eileen Higgins. The meeting began with a special presentation recognizing Theo Karantsalis as the CITT Ambassador of the Quarter for January–March 2025. The committee then addressed a discussion on interior residential speed limits, an update on the Miami Freedom Park pedestrian bridge, a public hearing on the Coral Gables/University Station Rapid Transit Subzone, and voted on a consent agenda of routine items, all of which were forwarded to the full Board of County Commissioners with favorable recommendations. Public Comments & Testimony - Susan Simpson, Deputy City Manager of Sunny Isles Beach, spoke on the interior residential speed limit discussion. She expressed that her city’s extremely urban environment—with many walkers, scooters, bike riders, and streets lacking sidewalks—requires consideration of local conditions beyond just data when determining speed limits. She urged the committee to account for these factors. - Renita Holmes, Executive Director of WAVE (Women in Our Homes), addressed transportation issues for persons with disabilities. She criticized the cancellation of a paratransit RFP, citing a dangerous incident where a driver refused to stop for a medical emergency because of schedule pressure. She demanded accountability and restoration of services, noting that the current contract is obsolete regarding civil rights. Chairwoman Higgins acknowledged the comment and promised a future discussion item on the RFP cancellation. Discussion Items - Interior Residential Road Speed Limits (Item 1F1): Commissioner Micky Steinberg raised the issue of allowing municipalities to lower speed limits to 20 mph on interior residential roads without county permission. She noted that demographic changes have made some 20 mph zones appropriate, but the county’s default of 25 mph may not suit all areas. Chairwoman Higgins supported the idea, stating that the county should eliminate itself as a barrier and allow municipalities to set lower limits, provided they enforce them. Commissioner Raquel Regalado added that reduced speed limits could help combat cut-through traffic from navigation apps like Waze. The committee agreed to have Commissioner Steinberg draft an item authorizing municipalities to go to 20 mph on interior roads, with a parallel effort for UMSA areas led by Commissioners Bastien and Bermudez. Director Stacey Miller noted that a traffic study is required under state law, but the county’s policy change would remove an additional hurdle. The item was deferred for drafting. - Miami Freedom Park Pedestrian Bridge (Item 1F2): Chairwoman Higgins provided an update on the pedestrian bridge connecting the Metrorail/Tri-Rail station to the under-construction Miami Freedom Park soccer stadium. The project involves multiple agencies (county, airport, GMX, FDOT, City of Miami, FPL) and has a $5 million state appropriation. Developer representative Iris Iscar reported that a revised concept design, adjusted for GMX assets, is expected within two weeks. A multi-agency meeting will follow. The bridge is essential to avoid severe traffic congestion on 37th Avenue and 20th Street. Commissioner Juan Carlos Bermudez expressed concern about public subsidies for a private stadium, but acknowledged the progress. The committee will continue to monitor with a follow-up meeting planned for late summer. Public Hearing - Coral Gables/University Station Rapid Transit Subzone (Item 1G1 Substitute): Commissioner Raquel Regalado sponsored an ordinance to create a subzone around the University Metrorail Station, expanding the Rapid Transit Zone (Chapter 33C). The ordinance includes standards for development, pedestrian and cyclist infrastructure, and a requirement to negotiate a future interlocal agreement with the City of Coral Gables. Public speaker Jeff Burkow spoke in support, noting that the subzone will generate new transit riders and incremental tax dollars for local matching funds. The committee held a public hearing and voted 4-0 to forward the ordinance to the full Board with a favorable recommendation. Key Outcomes - The committee unanimously (4-0) forwarded the following items to the full Board of County Commissioners with favorable recommendations: - Item 1G1 Substitute (Coral Gables/University Station Subzone) - Item 2A (Resolution rescinding $1,800,000 allocation from Bond Project No. 368 and reallocating for roadway improvements near Lincoln Memorial Park Cemetery) - Item 2B (Resolution directing application for federal funding for Glen Cove Roadway Resurfacing and Restoration) - Item 3A (Resolution granting petition to close a portion of NW 12 Avenue, filed by Unique Space LLC) - Item 3B Substitute (Resolution approving First Amendment to interlocal with GMX for Dolphin Station Park and Ride, reimbursing $8,218,816 in construction costs, and urging inside shoulder improvements) - Item 3C (Resolution approving interlocal with Town of Miami Lakes for decorative street lighting at Cow Pen Road and Miami Lakes Drive) - Item 3D (Resolution granting alley closure petition by Earlington West Apartments, LP) - Item 3E (Resolution authorizing easement to Florida Power & Light for $1.00 to serve Brownsville Transit Village affordable housing) - Item 3F (Resolution granting vacation of right-of-way petition P-1027 by Atlantic Civil, Inc., closing SW 152 Avenue and SW 157 Avenue) - Item 3G (Resolution granting vacation of right-of-way petition P-1029 by EIP IV FL Round Hammock Land Co, LLC) - Item 3H (Resolution approving First Amendment to off-system agreement with FDOT for improvements on Okeechobee Road) - Item 3I (Resolution approving interlocal with Town of Miami Lakes for streetlights at NW 154 Street and NW 79 Court, at a cost of $120,000) - Item 3J (Resolution approving Joint Participation Agreement with City of Miami Beach for mill and resurfacing of Dade Boulevard, up to $1,205,000) - Item 3K (Resolution approving off-system agreement with FDOT for improvements on SR 944/NW 54th Street) - Items 3L, 3M, 3N (Resolutions authorizing tri-party agreements with FDOT and SFRTA for railroad crossing traffic control devices at NW 21st Avenue, NW 19th Avenue, and NW 24th Avenue) - Item 3O (Resolution approving contract award to Interstate Construction, LLC for North Miami Avenue Bridge replacement, not to exceed $6,608,865.63) - Item 3P (Resolution approving contract award to Delka Innovo Group, Inc. for Metrorail bathroom rehabilitation, not to exceed $576,723.80) - On the speed limit discussion, the committee directed Commissioner Steinberg to draft a policy item authorizing municipalities to set 20 mph speed limits on interior residential roads without county permission, and for UMSA areas to be addressed separately. The item will be brought back at a future meeting. - On the pedestrian bridge, the committee received an update and will continue to monitor progress, with a follow-up meeting scheduled for late summer.

The Recreation and Tourism Committee met on Monday, July 7, 2025, at 1:00 PM in Commission Chambers. Vice Chairwoman Micky Steinberg chaired the meeting in the absence of Chairman Senator René García. Commissioners Marleine Bastien, Kionne L. McGhee (absent), and Raquel A. Regalado were present (3 members). The committee unanimously approved the agenda, which included the addition of item 3D and sponsor changes, and forwarded all four agenda items to the July 16, 2025 Board of County Commissioners (BCC) meeting with favorable recommendations. Consent Calendar - Item 3A: Resolution approving 15 grant award agreements totaling $210,000 for the Visual and Media Artists Grant Program (FY 2024-2025) through the South Florida Cultural Consortium. Forwarded to BCC with a favorable recommendation (3-0). - Item 3B: Resolution authorizing a $35,000 grant agreement with the Museum of Contemporary Art, Inc. (MOCA North Miami) for a regional exhibition under the same grant program. Forwarded to BCC with a favorable recommendation (3-0). - Item 3C: Resolution approving 40 tourist development grants totaling $540,200 from the FY 2024-2025 second quarter room tax plan to promote tourism. Forwarded to BCC with a favorable recommendation (3-0). - Item 3D: Resolution approving an agreement with the City of Coral Gables for use of up to three stalls at the Ronald Reagan Equestrian Center (Tropical Park) for the Coral Gables Police Department's mounted patrol unit to patrol Matheson Hammock Park and fulfill mutual aid duties. Forwarded to BCC with a favorable recommendation (3-0). Discussion Items - Chairwoman Steinberg noted Senator García's absence and opened with a moment of silence for flooding victims in Texas and for Dave Lawrence and family. - The public comment period was opened but no speakers came forward. - The committee accepted the agenda as modified: items 3A, 3B, and 3C were moved to be sponsored by Senator García; item 3D was added at the request of Prime Sponsor Anthony Rodriguez. - Commissioner Bastien made a motion, seconded by Commissioner Regalado, to adopt the agenda and approve all items. The motion passed by acclamation (unanimous). - Chairwoman Steinberg directed that all approved items be placed on the July 16, 2025 BCC meeting. Key Outcomes - All four resolutions were unanimously forwarded to the July 16, 2025 BCC meeting with favorable recommendations. - The committee waived Resolution No. R-130-06 for items 3A, 3B, and 3C as part of the approval. - No public testimony or additional discussion was heard. - The meeting adjourned after the vote.

The committee convened at 11:00 AM on July 7, 2025, to discuss multiple solid waste management items, including a proposed 1% fee increase, several resolutions advancing zero-waste initiatives, and two Water & Sewer Department contracts. The meeting featured extensive public testimony and commissioner debate on funding, efficiency, and environmental goals. Public Comments & Testimony - Noel Cleeland (5990 SW 50th St) spoke in favor of Item 2B (pay-as-you-throw), emphasizing that a capitalist incentive model can reduce waste, noting Miami-Dade produces twice the national average of waste. - Katrina Bernabi (1713 SW 103rd Pl) expressed support for Item 2B and advocated for composting over incineration, stressing stewardship of the planet. - Priscilla Carolyn Schmidt (1595 NE 141st St) voiced support for Item 2B, noting she has composted for nearly two decades and that businesses currently pay extra to do the right thing; she thanked Commissioner Regalado for the District 7 composting program. - Marcella Bay Daris (Sierra Club Florida) expressed support for Item 2B and other zero-waste items, commending the commission’s commitment. - Maddie Kaufman (Debris Free Oceans) spoke in favor of Item 2B, citing Gainesville’s pay-as-you-throw program that reduced solid waste by 18% and increased recycling by 25% in the first year. - Bernice Yannis (100 NE 29th St) expressed support for Item 2B, noting she pays $20/month to compost and wants the county to recognize those reducing waste. - Katherine Accarty (816 NW 11th St) spoke in favor of Item 2B, hoping for a zero-waste future and reduction of incineration. - Stephen Leidner (Bay Harbor Islands) spoke in favor of 2B and other items, noting pay-as-you-throw can reduce garbage by up to 40%; he also suggested on-site mulching at mini-dumps and named the department “Department of Resource Recovery.” Discussion Items - Discussion Item 1F1: Solid Waste Assessment Rolls – Director Anisha Daniel presented that the department saved nearly $5 million (net) through efficiencies, but inflationary costs, fleet expenses, and collective bargaining will require future rate increases. The approved 1% increase (rather than the requested 2%) will lead to an $8 million deficit by 2028 and $56 million by year five, potentially forcing once-weekly pickup. Commissioners debated the need for innovative revenue streams (methane collection, mini-dumps, partnerships) and expressed concern about the 47% fee increase over five years. - Item 2A (Resolution 251039): Directs a study on improved solid waste design standards for residential establishments. Forwarded to BCC with favorable recommendation 5–0. - Item 2B (Resolution 251068): Directs evaluation of incentive-based programs like pay-as-you-throw and waste reduction rebates. Forwarded to BCC with favorable recommendation 5–0. Commissioner Higgins requested a friendly amendment to protect low-income households from disproportionate impact. - Item 2C (Resolution 251069): Directs enhanced reporting and compliance for recycling in multifamily, commercial, and mixed-use properties. Forwarded to BCC with favorable recommendation 5–0. - Item 2D (Resolution 251344): Directs exploration of mini dumps for yard waste collection. Forwarded to BCC with favorable recommendation 5–0. - Item 2E (Resolution 251389): Directs retention of easement rights for water/sewer infrastructure when conveying county-owned property. Forwarded to BCC with favorable recommendation 5–0. (Commissioner Steinberg added as co-sponsor.) - Item 2F (Resolution 251463, added on): Directs coordination with municipalities via MOU for permitting of water/sewer construction to avoid conflicts. Forwarded to BCC with favorable recommendation; Commissioner Cohen Higgins voted no citing need to review unintended consequences. - Item 2G (Resolution 251467, added on): Directs exploration of combined biosolids and solid waste hauling and upgrading Class B to Class A biosolids. Forwarded to BCC with favorable recommendation. - Item 3A (Resolution 251355): Award contract to RF Environmental Services, Inc. for Hialeah Filter Backwash Elevated Tank ($6,160,980; 561 calendar days). Forwarded to BCC with favorable recommendation 5–0. - Item 3B Substitute (Resolution 251455): Award contract to David Mancini and Sons, Inc. for rehabilitation of a 54-inch force main on West Flagler Street ($5,959,981.88; 396 calendar days). Original item withdrawn; substitute forwarded to BCC with favorable recommendation 5–0. - Item 3C (Resolution 251353): Directs creation of “Risk and Resilience Tech Hub, Inc.” to manage federal EDA grant. Commissioners questioned employee transition, financial independence, and duplication with the Miami Data Innovation Authority. Forwarded to BCC without recommendation 5–0, with direction to amend language clarifying that no county funds will be used and that positions will not be backfilled. Key Outcomes - The committee voted to forward all items except 3C to the Board of County Commissioners (BCC) with favorable recommendations, most 5–0. - Item 3C was forwarded without recommendation pending revisions to explicitly state no county funding obligation and that staff positions will not be backfilled. - The committee agreed to move all solid waste and Water & Sewer items to the July 16, 2025 BCC meeting for final consideration. - The committee will hold a second reading on the solid waste fee increase on July 16, 2025; discussions on waste-to-energy and other innovations are scheduled for that meeting. - Director Daniel will provide additional data on rate scenarios (e.g., 1.5% increase) and future projections before the final vote.

The Miami-Dade Board of County Commissioners met on July 1, 2025, at 9:30 AM in Commission Chambers. The meeting began with a proclamation declaring July 1, 2025, as "Hippólito Guayabera Day" and included the Pledge of Allegiance, roll call, and reasonable opportunity for public comment. Major agenda items included a contentious debate over the Solid Waste assessment increase, consideration of items related to the American Dream Miami project, and approval of numerous consent items, ordinances, and resolutions. The board also approved several appointments and policy directives. Consent Calendar - Proclamation: Declared July 1, 2025, as "Hippólito Guayabera Day" in Miami-Dade County (presented by Commissioner Bermudez, co-sponsored by multiple commissioners). - Mayoral Reports: Accepted reports on FY 2024-25 State Legislature Awards (Second Quarter), Fourth Quarter 2024 Mobility/Impact/Water-Sewer Connection Fees, FY 24-25 Q1 Federal and State Funding, FY 2024-25 Second Quarter Federal/State Funding, and the appointment of Nathan Cogan as permanent Director of the Department of Housing and Community Development (all passed unanimously, 13-0). - Commissioner Consent Items (3A1-3A12): Approved resolutions for street co-designations (e.g., "Fr. Juan M. Lopez Way," "Margarita Faroy Way," "Familia de Presos Politicos Cubanos Street") and district discretionary reserve allocations (all passed unanimously, 13-0). - Departmental Consent Items (3B1): Approved a Transportation Disadvantaged Trust Fund Trip and Equipment Grant Agreement with the Florida Commission for the Transportation Disadvantaged in an amount up to $8,000,000, with a 10% local match (passed 13-0). - Ordinances for First Reading (4A-4I): Created or amended special taxing districts for street lighting, maintenance, community development, and peafowl mitigation (4H). All passed 13-0. Item 4J (Solid Waste assessment) was debated separately (see Discussion Items). - Public Hearings (5A-5S): Approved ordinances and resolutions related to community redevelopment agencies (5A, 5B), plats (5C, 5F, 5G), reporting requirements (5D substitute), transportation surtax projects (5E), and numerous special taxing district assessments (5H-5P). Most passed with varying vote tallies; some items were bifurcated and voted on individually (e.g., 5L, 5N, 5O, 5P). - Ordinances for Second Reading (7A): Adopted amendments to environmental protection regulations regarding seawalls, bulkheads, and biodiversity enhancement tiles (passed 13-0). - Additional Departmental Items: Approved a development agreement for the Allapattah Branch Library (9A1) and a grant for older adults home modifications (9A2) (both passed 13-0). - County Commission Resolutions: Appointed Rhenie Dalger to the NW 79th Street Corridor CRA, conveyed county properties for affordable housing, authorized bonds for the Southeast Overtown/Park West CRA, conveyed utility easements, approved a pilot program for rain barrels, established zoning notice policy, directed stormwater maintenance, and directed an HIV/AIDS action plan (all passed 13-0 except 11A7 substitute which was amended and passed). - Items Subject to 4-Day Rule: Approved change order for Underline Phase II (14A2) and settlement of lawsuit related to International Atlantic LLC (14A3) – note that 14A1 and 14A3 were discussed separately (see Discussion Items). - Clerk of the Board Items: Approved public hearing dates, reappointments to the Environmental Quality Control Board, and other administrative items (all passed 13-0). Public Comments & Testimony - Miguel Diaz de la Portilla (600 Brickell Ave, Miami) spoke in favor of items 14A1 and 14A3, arguing they represent a unique opportunity to leverage impact fee dollars and potentially $350 million in state infrastructure investment for Northwest Dade, with a $17 billion economic impact and $16 million in tax revenue in the first year. He described the existing prohibition in 14A1 as unfair and the result of tortious interference. - James Woodard (17001 SW 90 Ave) spoke against item 4H, the peafowl mitigation policy. He noted that in 2001, after 9/11, he and neighbors presented a petition with over 2,500 signatures supporting the Peacock Protection Ordinance, which item 4H seeks to eviscerate. He stated that the ordinance allows killing trapped birds, which he called inhumane, and argued that peafowl are natural-born natives, not invasive. - Robert Gorlo (7485 Fairway Dr, Miami Lakes) spoke in favor of items 14A1 and 14A3. He stated that eight years ago, a development agreement with Triple 5 required two interchanges, one of which (NW 170th St and Turnpike) is being built. The second interchange is the subject of lifting the restriction, and he argued that the resolution prevents fulfilling obligations that would benefit Northwest Miami-Dade County suffering from traffic congestion. - Scott Leftwich (9505 W Hwy 316, Redick, FL) spoke in favor of items 14A1 and 14A3. He noted his work on the EMERGE project and long-range plans in Orlando and West Palm. He stated that FDOT has confirmed a PDE study for the area, there is already congestion, and that connectivity and accessibility to the system are needed west of I-75. - Stanley Young (500 NW 2nd Ave) spoke during the public hearing on item 5A, expressing support for the work of Community Redevelopment Agencies (CRAs) but urging the board to also provide platforms and funding for community-based organizations (CBOs) that serve unsung heroes and those living on the streets. He noted that many CBOs face long applications and little recognition. Discussion Items - Solid Waste Assessment (Item 4J): Commissioner Gilbert, prime sponsor, presented the ordinance to approve, adopt, and ratify non-ad valorem assessment rolls for the Solid Waste collection service area for FY 2025-26, proposing a 2% increase (from $697 to $711 per household). The item initially failed on a 6-7 vote after extensive debate. The board suspended rules to discuss further. Commissioner Regalado expressed concern that the department has not fully explored revenue opportunities (e.g., cardboard sales, methane capture) and argued that a 1% increase would create urgency for efficiencies. Commissioner Gilbert countered that the increase reflects rising costs (labor, fuel, equipment) and that the board must pass a balanced fee to avoid dipping into reserves. Director Anisha Daniel noted that the department found $5 million in savings, reducing the need from 4% to 2%. After a motion to reconsider, the board voted 8-7 to approve the item as amended to a 1% increase (option two), with the understanding that it would go to the Infrastructure Committee for discussion and that the TRIM notice would reflect the 1% proposal. The board also passed a separate motion by Commissioner Regalado to direct the administration to advertise an RFP for landfill gas conversion by July 8, 2025, and an RFP for revenue-generating cardboard waste contracts within 30 days. - American Dream Miami Items (14A1 and 14A3): - Item 14A1 (Modifying Resolution R-629-18): Commissioner Bermudez proposed an amendment to lift restrictions on using county subsidies for the American Dream Miami project. After debate, Commissioner Gilbert moved to 4-day rule the item, which was seconded and approved. The item will be reconsidered at the next meeting. - Item 14A3 (Settlement of pending lawsuit): The settlement involved a $5 million payment plus interest from International Atlantic LLC and a 10-year extension of the declaration. The board deferred this item to the next meeting, with direction that it does not need to travel with 14A1. Commissioners expressed concerns about the project's track record, potential TIF district impacts on the general fund, and the need for road infrastructure in Northwest Dade. - Container Stacking and Storage (Item 11A10): Commissioner Gilbert’s resolution to direct the county to file a CDMP amendment to authorize container stacking and storage in conjunction with commercial vehicle storage in authorized locations. Commissioner Regalado raised concerns about excluding inland port development, and Commissioner Gonzalez requested guardrails to prevent the area from looking like a seaport. The item passed unanimously after clarification that it would return to the board for final approval. - Florida City Annexation (Item 8G3): Commissioner McGhee’s resolution to direct the county attorney to prepare an ordinance and interlocal agreement for the annexation of 96 homes into Florida City. Commissioner Cohen Higgins questioned the fiscal impact, noting that the $269,000 in police costs would not disappear. Vice Chair McGhee clarified that the city has its own police department and that the annexation would bring taxes to the Florida City millage rate (6.3 vs. 1.9), resulting in an $1,200 increase per household. The board voted 10-3 to advance the item to the next stage. - Peafowl Mitigation (Item 4H): Ordinance amending Section 5-16 to allow the county to opt out of peafowl regulations in designated unincorporated areas and approve a mitigation policy for District 12. Passed on first reading 13-0 after public comment opposing the measure. - Utility Easements for Affordable Housing (Item 11A7 Substitute): Commissioner Higgins’ resolution to authorize the conveyance of non-exclusive utility easements on county-owned properties for affordable housing developments. Amended to add several transit station properties. Passed unanimously. - Water and Sewer Security (Item 4I): Ordinance amending security provisions for the Water and Sewer Department, including fingerprinting and background checks. Passed on first reading 13-0. - SeaWorld/Aquarium Lease (Motion by Commissioner Regalado): Commissioner Regalado moved to delegate authority to negotiate with the debtor in possession of the Seaquarium lease under Delaware Bankruptcy Court protection. The board approved the motion, with Commissioner Regalado to coordinate with the mayor’s office and bring any final agreement back for board approval. Key Outcomes - Solid Waste Assessment: Approved on first reading with a 1% increase (8-7 vote). The TRIM notice and mailed notice will reflect the 1% proposal. The board directed the administration to issue RFPs for landfill gas conversion (by July 8, 2025) and cardboard waste revenue contracts (within 30 days). - American Dream Miami Items: Item 14A1 (lifting restrictions) was 4-day ruled to the next meeting. Item 14A3 (settlement) was deferred to the next meeting, with the understanding that it does not need to be tied to 14A1. - Container Stacking: Resolution directing the county to file a CDMP amendment passed unanimously. - Florida City Annexation: Resolution to prepare annexation documents passed 10-3. - Peafowl Mitigation: Passed on first reading 13-0. - Utility Easements: Amended resolution passed unanimously. - Water and Sewer Security: Passed on first reading 13-0. - Seaquarium Negotiations: Motion to delegate authority to Commissioner Regalado passed unanimously. - Zero Drownings Program: Motion to expand the program passed unanimously. - Appointments: Nathan Cogan confirmed as permanent Director of Housing and Community Development; Carlos Cortina and Enrique Espino appointed to the Greater Miami Expressway Agency; Rhenie Dalger appointed to NW 79th Street CRA; Rose Mary Stiffin and William Shelley reappointed to the Environmental Quality Control Board. - All other consent items, ordinances, and resolutions passed as described above, with vote tallies noted in the agenda.

The Miami-Dade Board of County Commissioners held a Comprehensive Development Master Plan (CDMP) and Zoning hearing on Thursday, June 26, 2025, at 9:30 AM. The meeting addressed several CDMP amendments, zoning applications, and public testimony. Key outcomes included adoption of small-scale CDMP amendments, approval of zoning changes, and a contentious vote on a jobs-to-housing ratio policy amendment. Public Comments & Testimony - Item 7A (LU-8H Amendment): Scott Polowitz, representing the Hold the Line Coalition, opposed the staff recommendation to change the jobs-to-housing ratio from 1.5:1 to 1:1, arguing it would worsen traffic and affordability. Jose Gonzalez, Jeff Burkhout, and Graham Penn, representing the Builders Association of South Florida, supported the 1:1 ratio as transmitted, stating it would help address the housing crisis and not block moderately priced units. Discussion Items - Item 3A, 3A Supplement, 3A1 (CDMP20240003) & Zoning 8C1: D.R. Horton, Inc. requested a small-scale CDMP amendment at SW 197 Ave and theoretical SW 328 St. Vice Chairman McGee moved to adopt with acceptance of the proper declaration of restrictions. Unanimously approved (10-0). The companion resolution (3A1) was withdrawn. - Item 3B, 3B Supplement, 3B1 (CDMP20240008) & Zoning 8C2: BlueNest Development, LLC requested a small-scale CDMP amendment near SW 232 St and SW 114 Path. Moved to adopt with declaration of restrictions. Unanimously approved (10-0). Companion resolution (3B1) withdrawn. - Item 7A, 7A Supplement (CDMP20240005): Out-of-cycle standard amendment to Policy LU-8H, sponsored by Chairman Anthony Rodriguez, proposing to change the jobs-to-housing ratio from 1.5:1 to 1:1 for UDB expansion projects. Staff recommended adoption, but after public testimony, Chairman Rodriguez moved to reject staff recommendation and adopt as originally transmitted (a 1:1 ratio). The first vote failed 6-4, but after a motion to reconsider, the motion passed 7-3. - Item 8A1 (Z2022000118): Appeal from the Community Zoning Appeals Board – Garcia Carrillo 56 Street Revocable Trust for a rezone at 5979 SW 56 St. After neighborhood negotiations, the applicant and neighbors agreed to approve with modifications: approve the non-use variance (keeping the street closed) and remove road dedication conditions. Approved unanimously (10-0). - Item 8A2 (Z2024000125): 14th Street Miami Investments, LLC – zoning application in District 3. Commissioner Keon Hardeman was absent. The applicant proffered increased contributions ($300,000 each for transit and affordable housing). Deferred to July 17, 2025 CDMP & Zoning meeting (11-0). - Item 8C3 (Z2024000239): Sylvia G. George and New Life Chapel, Inc. – zoning at SW 216 St and SW 112 Ave. The applicant (owner for 74 years) requested commercial zoning due to neighborhood growth. Vice Chairman McGee moved to approve per staff conditions. Unanimously approved (11-0). Key Outcomes - Item 3A/3B (Small-Scale CDMP): Adopted as amended with proffered declarations of restrictions (10-0 each). - Item 7A (LU-8H Policy): Motion to reject staff recommendations and adopt the 1:1 jobs-to-housing ratio passed 7-3 (with Commissioners Cohen Higgins, Senator García, and Vice Chairman McGee voting no). - Item 8A1 (Garcia Carrillo zoning): Approved with modifications (including non-use variance) by unanimous vote (10-0). - Item 8A2 (14th Street zoning): Deferred to July 17, 2025 (11-0). - Item 8C3 (George/New Life Chapel): Approved per staff recommendation (11-0).

The Miami-Dade Board of County Commissioners met on June 26, 2025, beginning at 9:30 AM, to address a wide range of items including a resolution of sympathy, public hearings, consent items, and several controversial matters. The meeting was marked by extensive public comment on an ICE detainer agreement (Item 11A2) which was ultimately deferred after a procedural debate. Other highlights included adoption of fee amendments for the Department of Regulatory and Economic Resources, approval of donations of firefighting equipment to the Dominican Republic, and a property exchange agreement for a new animal shelter and affordable housing. Consent Calendar - The consent calendar, including numerous commissioner district allocations (Items 3A1-3A9), departmental resolutions (e.g., library grants, bond issuance, taxicab rate report), and other routine items, was adopted unanimously (11-0). Public Comments & Testimony - Luisa Suarez (District 3) spoke in opposition to Item 5A (codesignating Southwest 62nd Avenue as "Julio Robaina Way"), stating that the person being honored was indicted for tax fraud. The chair clarified it was a different Julio Robaina. - On Item 11A2 (ICE Basic Ordering Agreement): Approximately 30 speakers registered to speak. Most spoke in opposition, citing concerns about fiscal irresponsibility (reimbursement of $50 per day not covering actual costs), lack of transparency and public records, human rights, and the potential for disappearances of detainees. Many deferred their time to preserve the right to speak at a future hearing, but Luisa Suarez chose to speak, leading to the closure of public hearing on that item. Several speakers also opposed Items 11A3 and 11A4 on similar grounds of fiscal concerns and lack of clarity on surplus equipment. Discussion Items - 5A, 5D, 5G: Street naming resolutions and a subdivision plat. 5A (Julio Robaina Way) passed 10-1 after debate. 5D (Maurice "Trick Daddy" Young Street) passed 8-3. 5G (Casabella subdivision) passed 10-1. - 8L3: Resolution amending implementing orders for Regulatory and Economic Resources fees. Commissioner Regalado introduced amendments to create a pilot program ensuring no fee increase for certain residential permits, and to adjust review cycles. The item passed unanimously after amendments. - 8P3: Resolution to extend contract for Section 8 housing voucher services. Commissioner Bastien raised concerns about a $77 million shortfall in HUD funding, but the interim director clarified the shortfall is now estimated at $45 million and that the contract extension is needed. The item passed 11-1. - 11A2: Resolution to retroactively authorize a Basic Ordering Agreement with ICE. After extensive debate and public comment, Commissioner Gilbert moved to defer the item, which was seconded and passed. Several commissioners noted the legal requirement to sign the agreement under state law but expressed concerns about transparency. The mayor and Chief Reyes committed to maintaining public access to detainee records. - 11A3 and 11A4: Resolutions to donate surplus firefighting equipment to fire departments in the Dominican Republic. Commissioner Bastien expressed support but raised concerns about discriminatory treatment of Haitians in the DR. An amendment was added to ensure the equipment is used for training only and not in a discriminatory manner. Both passed. - 14A2: Resolution approving a property exchange agreement for a new animal shelter and affordable housing. Commissioner Bermudez moved an amendment to assign the contract. The item passed. - Other items: Motions included delegating authority to the mayor to enter into federal/state agreements (passed), reducing in-kind services for the 2026 College Football Championship from $1 million to $100,000 with $900,000 allocated to the sheriff (passed), and several appointments and extensions. Key Outcomes - Item 5A: Adopted (10-1). - Item 5D: Adopted (8-3). - Item 5G: Adopted (10-1). - Item 8L3: Adopted as amended (unanimous). - Item 8P3: Adopted (11-1). - Item 11A2: Deferred (no date certain) after public hearing. - Item 11A3: Adopted as amended (unanimous). - Item 11A4: Adopted as amended (unanimous). - Item 14A2: Adopted as amended (unanimous). - Motion to delegate authority to mayor: Approved (unanimous). - Motion to reallocate College Football Championship funds: Approved (unanimous). - Appointments: Leslie Del Monte to Biscayne Bay Shoreline Development Review Committee; Vice Chairman McGhee's appointee to Cultural Affairs Board approved. - Legislative request extensions: Approved for Commissioners Hardeman (90-day) and Regalado (indefinite).

This joint meeting of the Appropriations and Government Efficiency & Transparency committees was held to discuss the upcoming Fiscal Year 2025-2026 budget. Chairwoman Raquel Regalado and Chairman Juan Carlos Bermudez opened the meeting, noting a tough budget year with a $402 million gap, a need for right-sizing government, and a focus on protecting essential services while reducing costs. No formal votes were taken; the meeting served as a forum for presentations and board discussion to guide the administration as it prepares the proposed budget. State Legislative Fiscal Update - Jess McCarthy (Intergovernmental Affairs) presented via Zoom on the recently concluded 2025 legislative session. Key fiscal impacts include: - Tax Package (HB 7031): Eliminated the business rent tax, reducing county revenue sharing by $12 million and cutting transit and Jackson half-penny revenues by $26 million each. Other provisions (sales tax holidays, property tax relief for affordable housing, aviation fuel tax elimination) have additional, unquantified impacts. - Transit New Start Match: Elimination of documentary stamp funding for state match of federal new-start projects (e.g., Northeast Corridor) will cost Miami-Dade a share of an estimated $40–50 million statewide impact. - FRS Employer Contribution Rates: A $149 million statewide increase; Miami-Dade’s portion was already factored into the administration’s projections. - Avoided Impacts: Bills on local option tax referendums (every eight years) and sovereign immunity increases did not pass, sparing the county significant costs. - Upcoming 2026 Session: Property tax reform is expected to be a major topic, with potential ballot measures in November 2026. - Commissioners expressed concern about the half-penny revenue losses and their absence from the original gap calculation. The administration confirmed the general fund gap grew from $387 million to approximately $402 million after the new state impacts. Budget & Personnel Growth Analysis - Yinka Majekudummi (Commission Auditor) presented data on county budget and position growth over the past five years: - Total budget grew from $9 billion (2021) to $12.7 billion; operating budget rose from $5.7 billion to $8 billion. - Positions increased from 28,000 to 31,000. - Personnel costs account for 57% of the operating budget; contractual obligations consume most of the remainder, leaving only 3–18% non-contractual flexibility. - A breakdown of general fund allocations by department was provided to help identify where cuts could most impact services. Discussion on Right-Sizing and Efficiency - Chairwoman Regalado emphasized that cutting positions should not default to last-in-first-out; instead, the county must evaluate the value and necessity of jobs, especially at upper levels. She called for protecting day-to-day service-delivery positions and eliminating unnecessary programs and “creatures of the pandemic.” - Commissioner Micky Steinberg and others stressed the need for performance measures and a deeper review of tasks and outcomes. Suggestions included zero-based budgeting and identifying overlapping or outdated services. - Commissioner Roberto Gonzalez proposed that leadership and program effectiveness be scrutinized before cutting frontline workers, noting the need to retain high performers. - Commissioner Danielle Cohen Higgins advocated for transitioning employees to constitutional offices or enterprise departments to minimize layoffs and payout costs. - Several commissioners supported reducing marketing and advertising budgets, using social media and digital tools instead. - Chairman Bermudez noted that government must shrink by 10–15% over the coming years and called for a culture of continuous efficiency improvement, not just a one-time cut. Tax Relief Discussion - Commissioner Juan Carlos Bermudez raised the possibility of lowering the millage rate to provide tax relief, though he acknowledged that would require deeper cuts. He noted that a flat millage is effectively a tax increase when property values rise. - Chairwoman Regalado expressed openness to tax reduction but emphasized that “real tax relief” should target those most in need (e.g., long-time homeowners). She mentioned the county’s existing “Save Our Seniors” program as an example of targeted relief. - The board agreed that no option should be off the table, but the immediate priority is balancing the budget while maintaining necessary services. Key Outcomes - Next Steps: The administration is expected to present the proposed FY 2025-2026 budget by July 15, 2025 (the board requested an earlier July 9 preview). The commission will set the millage rate on July 16. - Ongoing Analysis: The commission auditor will continue to provide detailed data on position tasks, union vs. non-union status, and performance measures to inform future decisions. - Commitment to Efficiency: The board agreed to pursue a multi-year, systematic approach to right-sizing government, with continued scrutiny of programs, contracts, and personnel to focus on core services and value to residents.

The Miami-Dade Port and Resiliency Committee convened on June 11, 2025, at 1:00 PM in Commission Chambers. Led by Chairwoman Micky Steinberg, the committee addressed several items including a major ordinance overhauling seawall and bulkhead permitting, pilot programs, infrastructure contracts, and board appointments. The meeting featured significant public testimony, committee debate, and unanimous votes on most agenda items before losing quorum. Public Comments & Testimony - Peter Mazio (600 NE 27th St, Miami): Described a 12-month delay in getting a seawall permit, noting that a modification for living seawall panels was promised as "very quick" but remained unresolved after 75 days, impacting his construction timeline and property security during king tides. - Scott Polowitz (Friends of Biscayne Bay): Thanked Commissioner Higgins for amending the ordinance to limit public hearing removal to seawalls and bulkheads only, but expressed concern about a provision allowing seawalls to protrude 1.5 feet into the bay, requesting consultation with DEP on potential conflicts with state statute protecting aquatic preserves. - John Korvick: Expressed support for the proposed changes, noting that current seawall conditions pose permitting and construction problems that increase costs for waterfront property owners. - Glenn Larson (Dock and Marine Construction): 100% supported the ordinance, emphasizing that new living seawall technology is the first material he has seen in 30 years that directly benefits benthic marine life. - Trulie Burton (Builders Association of South Florida): Supported the ordinance as a considerable improvement to the slow permitting process, which is unacceptable to the public and the industry. - Solomon Arroyo (Red Line Marine Construction): Supported efforts to expedite seawall permits, noting the frustration of homeowners who wait 15 months for permits, and supported living seawall technology. - Alex Fernandez (Miami Beach City Commissioner): Supported the ordinance, noting that Miami Beach has 55 miles of seawalls, over 90% privately owned, and that seawall permits in Miami-Dade take 18–24 months versus 3–6 months in other counties. He tied permitting delays directly to climate risk and lost revenue during events like Hurricane Irma. - Kirk Lofgren (Ocean Consulting): Supported the ordinance, citing a four-year permitting example in Bell Harbor and arguing that removing king piles can cause wall failure, causing more environmental damage than allowing projections. - Tim Blancinship (Moffatt & Nichol, advisor to Kind Design): Supported the item for streamlining environmental permitting and promoting green infrastructure technologies. - Bree Kocus (Ocean Consulting, Senior Marine Biologist): Supported the item, particularly the riprap rule change, and noted over 25 years of diving experience in Biscayne Bay observing the rapid proliferation of the excavating sponge Cliona. - Maria Nassiz (Miami Waterkeeper): Thanked Commissioner Higgins for amendments but expressed remaining concerns that the ordinance could eliminate public hearings for broad categories of standard form permits and that allowing seawall projections up to 40 inches could authorize incremental filling of Biscayne Bay Aquatic Preserve and impede navigation and tidal exchange. Discussion Items - Item 1G1 (Ordinance No. 250736, Substitute No. 251186) – Seawall & Bulkhead Permitting Reform: Committee members discussed amendments to the original item, which were presented by Prime Sponsor Commissioner Eileen Higgins. The substitute ordinance was amended with five specific changes: (1) deleting the phrase "without the need for public hearing" from a recital; (2) adding recital clauses regarding federal/state permitting authority; (3) limiting short-form permit eligibility for seawalls with structural piles extending no more than 14 inches waterward, with total projection no more than 18 inches; (4) ensuring public hearings for short-form applications not limited to seawalls/bulkheads upon written request; and (5) setting the new permitting timelines to take effect upon full implementation of the gold key software system or by January 1, 2026, whichever is earlier. Key Outcomes - Item 1G1 (Substitute) – Passed unanimously (3–0) as amended; forwarded to the Board of County Commissioners with a request to delay effective date to July 1, 2025. - Item 2A (Rain barrel pilot program in District 7) – Forwarded to BCC with a favorable recommendation, 3–0. - Item 3A (Resilient Florida Grant Program funding, up to $25,384,316) – Forwarded to BCC with a favorable recommendation, 4–0. - Item 3B (Moffatt & Nichol planning contract, $3,750,000) – Forwarded to BCC with a favorable recommendation, 3–0. - Item 3C (Jacobs Engineering planning contract, $3,750,000) – Forwarded to BCC with a favorable recommendation, 3–0. - Item 3D (Paul Bridges & Associates cargo/cruise equipment contract, $4,400,000) – Forwarded to BCC with a favorable recommendation, 3–0. - Item 3E (North Bulkhead Berths 1–6 Realignment, OHLA USA interim agreement, $29,998,110) – Forwarded to BCC with a favorable recommendation, 3–0; requested expedited hearing at June 26 BCC meeting. - Item 3F (Appointment of Dr. John D. Stiglitz to Biscayne Bay Watershed Management Advisory Board) – Forwarded to BCC with a favorable recommendation, 3–0. - Item 3G (Appointment of Dr. Jed R. Redwine to Biscayne Bay Watershed Management Advisory Board) – Forwarded to BCC with a favorable recommendation as corrected (scrivener's error fixed), 3–0. - Item 3H (Certification of financial responsibility for North District WWTP injection wells) – Forwarded to BCC with a favorable recommendation, 3–0.