Public Meetings - Miami Dade County, Florida

This meeting of the Miami-Dade Housing Committee, chaired by Commissioner Marleine Bastien, convened on Tuesday, May 13, 2025, at 2:00 PM. After roll call, the committee heard a special presentation on the Commission for Women's CEDAW recommendations, received public comments, and then voted unanimously to approve the entire agenda as amended, forwarding all items to the Board of County Commissioners (BCC). The meeting adjourned without debating individual items. Special Presentation: Commission for Women's CEDAW Recommendations Report - Presenter: Josie Nova (Legislative Chair of the Commission for Women) and Dr. Martin (new Director). - Key Statistics Presented: - 84.7% increase in domestic violence cases; over 300 additional cases and 286 forcible sex offenses. - Black maternal mortality has nearly tripled; updated figures show it is now five times higher for black women in childbirth. - Only 57% of black women receive adequate prenatal care. - 18% wage gap among full-time female workers ($41,454 vs. $50,577 for men); within county government a 16.7% gap (women median $64,522, men $77,446). - Recommendations: Create two new CVAC centers in underserved areas; fund a maternal health fair; conduct a county workforce analysis to determine why pay disparity exists, not just where. - Discussion: Commissioners expressed concern and support. Commissioner Gonzalez asked about strategies to fund projects and increase capacity. Chairwoman Bastien proposed a conference with the Women's Fund of Miami-Dade and other partners to develop resolutions. Commissioner McGhee praised the presentation and offered to host events in his district. Public Comments & Testimony - Speaker 1 – Sarah Harold (representing YWCA of South Florida): Expressed support for the YWCA restrictive covenant amendment (Item 2C) and offered to answer questions. - Speaker 2 – Renita Holmes (Director of Waival Women and Public Housing): Addressed violence against women in underserved communities, lack of safe housing, and gaps in police response. Urged the board to consult data from the Black Advisory Board and focus on frontline experiences. Consent Calendar and Agenda Actions - Item 3D (Summer Food Service Program) was removed from the agenda prior to the vote. - Motion to set the agenda in order and then motion to approve the agenda as a whole as amended (excluding Item 3D) passed unanimously (voice vote, no opposition). - Amendments to Item 3B (Palm Court/Palm Towers Ground Lease): Chairwoman Bastien introduced a floor amendment to limit conversion to market-rate units after the tax credit period to a maximum of 49 units. The amendment also corrected scrivener errors (spelling of “amended,” changing “developer” to “tenant,” and updating department initials). The committee adopted this amendment. Key Outcomes - All 14 remaining agenda items were forwarded to the BCC with a favorable recommendation by a 3-0 vote (per the agenda notation; the transcript confirms a unanimous voice vote on the overall amended agenda). - Items forwarded include: - 2A: CMS International Group – amended deed and extension. - 2B: Choix Financial Group – surplus property conveyance for affordable housing. - 2C: YWCA – first amendment to restrictive covenant (corrected). - 2D: Mount Sinai CDC – amended deed and extension. - 2E: Renaming “Black Business Month” to “Black-Owned Business Month 305.” - 2F: Affordable Housing and Community Development, Inc. – infill housing deed amendment. - 2G: Tar Holdings International and Sankofa Group – surplus property conveyance (corrected). - 3A: FY2025 SHIP Homebuyer Education and Counseling funding recommendations (up to $1,200,000). - 3B: 99-year amended ground lease for Palm Court/Palm Towers ($90.8M lease, $6.66M consulting agreement) — as amended. - 3C: First amendment to Master Development Agreement with RUDG, LLC. - 3E: Additional expenditure authority ($4M) for elderly meal services. - 3F: 99-year ground lease for Liberty Square Phase Five ($48.7M). - 3G: 99-year ground lease for Liberty Square Elderly ($38.7M). - 3H: 99-year master ground lease and MDA for West Grove development (Integral Florida, LLC; $434.2M total). - Next Steps: All items will be considered by the full Board of County Commissioners at a future meeting. Adjournment The meeting was adjourned by unanimous consent immediately after approval of the agenda.

The Miami-Dade County Safety and Health Committee met on May 13, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. (local time) in Commission Chambers. Chair Roberto J. Gonzalez presided. Commissioners present: Sen. René García, Marleine Bastien, Keon Hardemon. Commissioner Eileen Higgins was absent. The committee considered several resolutions and a special presentation, forwarding all items to the full County Commission with favorable recommendations. Special Presentation - Recognition of Deputy Joseph M. Vallejos: The committee presented a proclamation declaring May 13, 2025 as "Deputy Joseph M. Vallejos Day" in Miami-Dade County. Deputy Vallejos, a nine-year veteran of the Miami-Dade Sheriff's Office, was honored for his service and recovery from a January 8, 2025 accident. He has returned to light duty. Public Comments & Testimony - Theophilus Williams (1391 NW 95th Street) urged the commission to address the closure of a mental health facility at 23rd Street and 7th Avenue, stating that taxpayer-funded facilities sit empty while people with mental health needs are not being treated. He called on commissioners to prioritize reopening the facility. Discussion Items - Item 2A – Voluntary Leave Contributions to Love Trust Fund: Resolution directing the County Mayor to allow county employees to donate accrued holiday/annual leave time to the Love Fund, Inc. for law enforcement personnel and their families. Approved 4-0. - Item 3A – Sheriff's Office Warehouse Lease: Lease agreement with a Florida LLC for a five-year term (with five-year renewal option) at an estimated total fiscal impact of $1,802,874.98 for the initial term plus option. Commissioner Bastien questioned why the county would rent instead of purchase; the committee was informed that Florida statute prevents the sheriff from owning property. Approved 4-0. - Item 3B – Fire Rescue Department Office Lease: Lease at 9250 NW 36 Street for 16,624 square feet for a one-year term at $236,718.96. Approved 4-0. - Item 3C – EMS County Grant from FDOH: Resolution to accept and expend FY 2024-25 EMS grant funds for pre-hospital emergency medical services, including subawards to municipal fire departments. Approved 4-0. - Item 3D – Communications Site Use Agreement with FDOT: Ten-year agreement (with two ten-year renewal options) at no cost to the county for public safety radio equipment. Approved 4-0. - Item 3E – Misdemeanor Diversion Services Contract: Award of contract to Advocate Program, Inc. and Court Options, Inc. for five years (with three-year renewal option) with estimated cumulative revenue of $21,600,000 from offender-paid fees. Commissioner Hardeman raised concerns about only two vendors and proposed creating a scholarship endowment fund from an additional fee. After discussion with Assistant State Attorney Steven Talpins, the committee approved the item but directed staff and the state attorney's office to meet before the full commission to explore adding a scholarship fund for participants who complete the program. Commissioner Hardeman assumed prime sponsorship; Chair Gonzalez became co-sponsor. Approved 4-0. Key Outcomes - All five resolutions (2A, 3A, 3B, 3C, 3D, 3E) were forwarded to the Board of County Commissioners with favorable recommendations (votes 4-0 on each). - For Item 3E, the committee directed that before the full commission vote, the new sponsor (Commissioner Hardeman) and the state attorney's office discuss the feasibility of adding a $20–$25 fee per offender to create a scholarship endowment fund, managed by the Miami Foundation, for program graduates. - The meeting adjourned after exhausting the agenda. Note: The agenda indicated 11:00 a.m. local time; the meeting's actual start time was approximately 16:15 UTC.

The Miami-Dade Transportation Committee met on May 13, 2025, at 9:00 AM with Chairwoman Eileen Higgins absent. Vice Chair Raquel A. Regalado presided, joined by Commissioners Marleine Bastien, Juan Carlos Bermudez, and Sen. René García. The committee considered public hearings, resolutions, and discussion items, forwarding most to the full Board of County Commissioners (BCC). Key discussions included transit funding, first/last mile services, and a directive to prepare an implementation plan for bus driver body-worn cameras. Public Comments & Testimony - Daniela Pierre (Transport Workers Union Local 291 and NAACP Miami-Dade branch president) spoke in opposition to Item 2B (body-worn cameras for bus drivers), urging the committee to defer the item and commending Commissioner Regalado for agreeing to meet with TWU. - Shannon O'Dell (Vice President and Chief Nursing Officer, Nicklaus Children's Hospital) spoke in favor of Item 1G1, explaining the hospital's transition to Air Methods for air medical transport and the transfer of the certificate of public convenience and necessity. Discussion Items - Item 3A – Property Acquisition for NE 159th Street Improvements (Commissioner Bastien): Commissioner Bastien questioned the scope of the project, noting community concerns about road widening, traffic, and safety. Deputy Director Josioffer Diaz stated that the parcel in question (Parcel 1) is owned by the City of North Miami Beach and is not in a residential area. The project includes a five-lane section, but the department is validating the typical section due to community feedback and will hold another public meeting before proceeding. The committee forwarded the item to BCC with a favorable recommendation (4-0). - Item 2B – Body-Worn Cameras for Bus Drivers (Commissioner Regalado): Commissioner Regalado announced a deferral following discussions with the union and other groups. The item was deferred by a 4-0 vote. - Transit Budget and First/Last Mile Discussion: Commissioner Regalado stated she does not support raising transit rates, calling for a focus on core services. She proposed pausing first/last mile services like MetroConnect for two years to address budget pressures, requesting cost-per-rider data for the next committee meeting. Commissioner Bermudez raised concerns about service gaps in unincorporated areas and noted that ridership data from a recent article appeared inaccurate. Director Miller clarified that overall ridership is up 2% since the Better Bus Network implementation. CFO Melvin Catanna reported a 10% fare recovery (90% subsidy). Discussion also covered coordination with cities on trolley services, potential for event-based transit pricing, and a pending TPO report on municipal connectivity. Key Outcomes - Item 1G1 – Transfer of Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity from Nicklaus Children's Hospital to Rocky Mountain Holdings LLC for air ambulance service was forwarded to BCC with a favorable recommendation (4-0) after a public hearing. The sponsor is Commissioner Kevin Marino Cabrera. - Item 1G2 – Interlocal agreement between Miami-Dade County and the City of Miami Beach for $245,000 per year for two years for the Mount Sinai Link fixed-route service was forwarded to BCC with a favorable recommendation (4-0). - Item 2B – Deferred to the next committee meeting by a 4-0 vote. - Item 3A – Declaration of public necessity for acquisition of Parcel 1 for NE 159th Street improvements was forwarded to BCC with a favorable recommendation (4-0). - Item 3B, 3C, 3D, 3E, 3F, 3G – All forwarded to BCC with favorable recommendations (4-0 each). - Directive: The committee requested a report on first/last mile service costs and ridership for the next meeting. An item will be drafted regarding MetroConnect return on investment. - Adjournment: The meeting adjourned after all votes were taken.

This meeting of the Miami-Dade Board of County Commissioners on May 6, 2025, covered a wide range of items including a mayor's veto override, special presentations, numerous public hearings, and commission resolutions. The board voted to override the mayor's veto on removing fluoride from the water supply, appointed a new commissioner for District 6, approved the mid-year budget, and took action on several property conveyances, procurement reforms, and affordable housing initiatives. Special Presentations - 2025 Water Conservation Poster Contest Winners: Recognized 13 first-place winners, one from each commission district. The program has reduced per capita water use from 153 to 131 gallons per day since its inception 17 years ago. - Christopher Columbus High School National Championship: Proclaimed May 6, 2025, as Christopher Columbus High School 2025 Chipotle National Champions Day for winning the national championship (their fourth consecutive state title and first national title). - Miami International Airport (MIA) JD Power Results: MIA rose from 10th to 4th among mega airports in customer satisfaction, with a 28-point improvement. Key factors: excellent food/beverage/retail and high trust, but access to the airport remains a challenge. Mayor's Veto – Fluoride Removal (Item 2A1) - Veto Override (8-4): The board overrode Mayor Daniella Levine Cava’s veto of a resolution directing the Water and Sewer Department to discontinue adding fluoride to the county’s water supply within 30 days. - Positions: - Commissioner Roberto J. Gonzalez (sponsor) argued the board should lead on local health decisions and that the vote is about local leadership, not fluoride itself. - Mayor Levine Cava expressed disappointment, citing medical expert consensus that fluoride at current levels is safe and beneficial, especially for vulnerable populations; she noted that 15 local cities opposed removal and that state preemption (SB 700) would soon take effect anyway. - Commissioners Oliver Gilbert and Raquel Regalado supported the veto override, stating the board should stand by its earlier vote based on evidence. Commissioner Regalado expressed process concerns, arguing the board lacks expertise on water chemistry and the state should handle such decisions. - Outcome: The veto was overridden 8-4, but the state law (SB 700) prohibiting fluoride in public water systems was expected to be signed later that day, making the local action moot regarding enforcement. Consent Calendar - Commissioner Consent Items (3A1-3A11): Approved allocations from district discretionary reserves and designated project programs for various community organizations and events. - Departmental Consent Items (3B1-3B9): Approved grant applications for canoe/kayak launches, a confidential jobs incentive project (Project Caiman – $80M investment, 50 jobs at average $70,000/year), and ratified multiple water/sewer contract amendments and extensions. Public Comments & Testimony - Alexander Magrisso (Hialeah): Spoke in favor of Item 11A2 (opportunity zone expansion for Hialeah). - Yona Janowitz (Coral Gables): Urged appointment of Natalie Milian Orbis as District 6 Commissioner (Item 11A11). - Tatiana Silva (Miami-Dade Beacon Council): Supported Project Caiman (fish feed facility) for job creation and economic development in South Dade. - Scott Polowitz (South Miami): Opposed part of Item 4A that would remove public hearing rights for short-form permits, arguing it eliminates a necessary check on executive authority. - Philip Stoddard (South Miami): Echoed opposition to eliminating public hearing rights, citing similar past mistakes. - Sean Raleigh (Legal Services of Greater Miami): Spoke on Item 5E (Public Housing Agency Plan), requesting protections for RAD tenants, such as limiting late fees and requiring payment plans before eviction. - Brenda Berancourt: Asked for clarification on whether airport zoning changes (Item 5A) apply to all airports countywide. - Carlos Gutierrez: Opposed Item 5W because the wording “Haitian community” could be seen as discriminatory. - Pat Santangelo: Spoke in favor of Item 5Y substitute (mid-year budget) to support an ADFC soccer program. - Stanley Young: Urged support for housing and mental health services in Item 5E. - Alina Hudak (Miami World Cup Host Committee): Requested funding to fulfill host city obligations, citing over $1 billion economic impact. - Tamara Bellard Rodriguez: Supported World Cup funding, highlighting benefits to small businesses and youth volunteer opportunities. - Carlos Rionda, David Whitaker, Marlon Hill: Also spoke in favor of World Cup funding, emphasizing economic impact and legacy. Discussion Items - Appointment of District 6 Commissioner (Item 11A11): The board appointed Natalie Milian Orbis, Vice Mayor of West Miami, to fill the vacancy created by Kevin Cabrera’s confirmation as U.S. Ambassador to Panama. - Positions: Chairman Anthony Rodriguez supported the appointment, noting the urgency of having representation before key budget and solid waste votes. Commissioners Eileen Higgins and Sen. Rene Garcia voted no, stating they prefer letting voters decide in a special election. - Outcome: Appointed 11-1 (Higgins and Garcia opposed). Orbis was sworn in later in the meeting. - Conveyance to Family Action Network Movement (FANM) – Item 5W: The board approved the conveyance of a 10,800 sq. ft. county-owned property at 100 NE 84th Street to FANM for nominal consideration, along with $1,369,312 in bond funds for capital improvements. - Amendments: Commissioner Keon Hardeman accepted a friendly amendment from Commissioner Danielle Cohen Higgins: any future redevelopment of the site must include a component of affordable housing and continued social services. Also agreed that FANM would pay $140,000 in back rent into an endowment at The Miami Foundation for scholarships. - Discussion: Several commissioners expressed concerns about setting a precedent for nonpayment of rent, but ultimately supported the conveyance given FANM’s track record and the district commissioner’s backing. - Special Task Force to Reduce Inefficiencies in Procurement (Item 11A4): Established a task force to review procurement laws and recommend reforms. - Amendments: Expanded scope to include all solid waste contracts, not just waste-to-energy. Task force will be subject to Sunshine Law; all commissioners may attend. - Outcome: Passed unanimously; commissioners to submit nominations. - Contract Inclusion in RFPs (Item 11A5): Requires that complete draft contracts be attached to RFPs and qualitative solicitations, with specified exceptions for negotiable terms. - Amendments: Refined to cover professional services (287.055 FS) and design-build contracts, and clarified that post-award negotiations cannot materially alter the original RFP or proposal. - Outcome: Passed. - Wintergrass Brickell Mixed-Income Housing – Art Requirement Waiver: Commissioner Eileen Higgins moved to waive remaining public art obligations for the project after most artworks were installed or substituted; building already open. Passed. - Mid-Year Budget (Item 5Y Substitute): Adopted FY 2024-25 mid-year budget adjustments, including reallocations for World Cup funding and department reorganizations. - Amendment: Chairman Rodriguez successfully directed the administration to replenish the Wage and Separation Reserve Fund by $10.5 million from identified sources by June 23, 2025. - Outcome: Passed 9-1. Key Outcomes - Veto Overridden: Mayor’s veto on fluoride removal overridden 8-4. - District 6 Vacancy Filled: Natalie Milian Orbis appointed 11-1. - Property Conveyance to FANM: Approved with amendments: back rent converted to scholarship endowment; redevelopment must include affordable housing. - Procurement Task Force Established: To report within 12-14 months; all solid waste contracts included. - Contract Transparency Mandate: RFP solicitations must include draft contracts; passed. - Mid-Year Budget Adopted: 9-1; includes directive to replenish Wage and Separation Reserve Fund. - Public Hearing Dates Set: Various ordinances scheduled for second reading in June and July. - Appointments: Several board appointments made (Biscayne Bay Watershed Advisory Board, Construction Trades Qualifying Board, etc.). - Pending State Preemption: The fluoride removal resolution is likely moot due to anticipated state law (SB 700) prohibiting fluoridation, effective July 1, 2025. Adjournment The meeting adjourned after the board processed all remaining motions and appointments.

The Miami-Dade County Board of County Commissioners (BCC) held a public hearing meeting on Tuesday, April 29, 2025, at 9:30 AM in the Commission Chambers. The meeting, chaired by Chairman Anthony Rodriguez with Vice Chairman Kionne L. McGee, focused on Comprehensive Development Master Plan (CDMP) amendments and associated zoning items. Eight members were present, establishing a quorum. The agenda included several applications for land-use changes and zoning approvals, with significant public participation on a workforce housing project. All votes were unanimous except one deferral. Public Comments & Testimony - Item 3A (Lennar Homes small-scale CDMP): No public speakers registered. - Item 4A (BlueNest at Krome I workforce housing): Multiple residents spoke. Supporters, including Kendrick Jones, Joanna Robinson, and Carlita McGuire, emphasized the need for affordable homeownership opportunities. Opponents, including Mary Waters and Vanessa McDonnell, argued the project would harm the agricultural character of the Redland area and questioned whether the homes were truly affordable. Natalie Grant, a local farmer, expressed concern about community engagement and the project's impact. - Item 7A (EIP IV Round Hammock mitigation bank): Laura Reynolds (Hold the Line Coalition) supported the mitigation bank but requested language to ensure hydrology adjustment for Everglades restoration. Mary Waters opposed the conversion of 239 acres of agricultural land. - Item 8C3 (14th Street Miami Investments RTZ): Marion Brown, a resident, spoke against the developer but later clarified his testimony pertained to a different project; the applicant noted the site is unrelated. - Items 7B, 8C1, 8C2, 8C4, 8C5: No public speakers. Discussion Items Item 3A & 8C2 – Lennar Homes Small-Scale CDMP and Zoning (District 8) - Proposal: CDMP amendment and zoning application for 90 acres on SW 232 Street and 112 Avenue, by Lennar Homes LLC. The small-scale amendment was on final adoption; a companion resolution for standard conversion was withdrawn upon approval. - Commissioner Cohen Higgins (district sponsor) moved approval with staff recommendations, noting community council support. A technical condition was added to revise the covenant and provide an opinion of title. - Outcome: Approved unanimously (11-0). Zoning item 8C2 also approved (11-0), with a request from Commissioner Cohen Higgins that homes incorporate barn-style aesthetics. Item 4A & 4A1 – BlueNest at Krome I Standard CDMP Transmittal (District 8) - Proposal: CDMP amendment for 700 workforce townhomes on 90 acres south of SW 272 Street, between Krome and 172 Avenue. Applicant sought transmittal for state review; the concurrent zoning application will follow at adoption. - Applicant Pedro Gasson highlighted 20% workforce housing units (140 units) priced at a maximum of $451,000, with a $4,500 down payment and $2,600 monthly payment. He noted the county's housing crisis, 90,000-unit shortage, and that the development will connect to water/sewer, generate $12.2 million in impact fees, and provide neighborhood retail. - Public debate: Supporters stressed homeownership opportunities; opponents cited density, traffic, and loss of agriculture. Commissioner Cohen Higgins moved approval with additional conditions: (1) cap all townhomes at workforce sales price while keeping 20% at income limits; (2) provide a public pump station to accommodate the basin; (3) use green infrastructure and trees for stormwater management. - Commissioner Regalado questioned infrastructure and stormwater; applicant confirmed the pump station would be regional and stormwater plan accounted for historical flows. - Commissioners Bermudez, Gilbert, Hardemon, Gonzalez, and McGee spoke in support, emphasizing the need for workforce housing and the project's location within the Urban Development Boundary (UDB). Traffic concerns were discussed, with the applicant stating no adverse impact per traffic study. - Outcome: Approved unanimously (12-0) for transmittal. Item 7A – EIP IV FL Round Hammock Mitigation Bank (District 8) - Proposal: Final adoption of CDMP amendment for a mitigation bank on approximately 239 acres south of SW 400 Street, between 217 and 227 Avenues. Applicant Hugo Arza reported staff recommendation to adopt with accepted declaration of restrictions. - Commissioner McGee moved adoption. Staff (Jerry Bell) noted concerns from transmittal about management and compatibility were resolved. - Outcome: Approved unanimously (12-0). Item 7B & 8C1 – Infinity Gardens Apartments (District 8) - Proposal: Final adoption of CDMP amendment and concurrent zoning for a parcel east of 147 Avenue, between SW 258 and 260 Streets, partially bisected by the Urban Development Boundary (UDB). The project is within half a mile of a bus rapid transit corridor. - Commissioner Cohen Higgins moved adoption, calling it a "," cleanup of an irregular UDB line. Discussion ensued about a policy to handle all similarly bisected parcels administratively. Commissioner Gilbert offered to draft a blanket item; Commissioner Regalado clarified that notice was needed for each owner. The board agreed to pursue a policy solution. - Outcome: CDMP adopted (11-0); zoning approved (11-0). Item 7C – Douglas Road Metropolitan Urban Center Text Amendment (Countywide) - Proposal: Final adoption of an out-of-cycle CDMP text amendment filed by the Department of Regulatory and Economic Resources to revise the Urban Center text for Douglas Road. - Commissioner Regalado moved adoption; no discussion. - Outcome: Approved unanimously (11-0). Item 8C3 – 14th Street Miami Investments RTZ (District 3) - Proposal: Rapid Transit Zone (RTZ) application for a 3.3-acre site near the School Board MetroMover station, seeking 283 market-rate units vs. 112 as-of-right. Public benefit proffer: $150,000 for transit station repairs. - Commissioner Hardemon expressed concern that the benefit was too low compared to past RTZ approvals and sought a deferral to allow negotiation. Applicant Russell Galbett offered to increase the proffer, but the commissioner preferred postponement. - Outcome: Deferred to the next BCC CDMP/Zoning meeting (May 22 meeting later cancelled; new date to be set). Motion passed with Commissioner Hardemon's request. Item 8C4 – West Gables Property – Skilled Nursing Facility (District 10) - Proposal: Unusual use and two non-use variances (FAR increase to 1.15 and parking reduction to 81 spaces) for a 180-bed skilled nursing facility at 9025 SW 72 Street, Sunset area. Five-story building, majority of occupants elderly. - Commissioner Cohen Higgins moved approval after adding a condition that the use be limited to a nursing home/skilled nursing facility where the majority of patients are over age 62. Staff confirmed the parking reduction is tied to that use. - Outcome: Approved unanimously (10-0). Item 8C5 – Extra Space Properties Storage Facility (District 11) - Proposal: Zoning for an additional self-storage facility on 147 Avenue, north of Miami Executive Airport. Traffic study showed minimal impact (peak hour trips at 7 PM and 4 AM). - Commissioner Gonzalez moved approval, noting the low traffic generation and favorable staff recommendation. Condition: proffered covenant. - Outcome: Approved unanimously (11-0). Key Outcomes - Item 3A/8C2: Approved 11-0 for Lennar Homes small-scale CDMP and zoning with covenant condition. - Item 4A/4A1: Approved 12-0 for BlueNest workforce housing transmittal with conditions capping townhome prices, providing a regional pump station, and using green infrastructure. - Item 7A: Approved 12-0 for Round Hammock mitigation bank. - Item 7B/8C1: Approved 11-0 for Infinity Gardens UDB cleanup; board agreed to pursue a policy for all similarly bisected parcels. - Item 7C: Approved 11-0 for Douglas Road Urban Center text amendment. - Item 8C3: Deferred to next CDMP/Zoning meeting (date TBD) due to public benefit concerns. - Item 8C4: Approved 10-0 for West Gables skilled nursing facility with age-62 condition. - Item 8C5: Approved 11-0 for Extra Space self-storage facility. - Calendar Change: Approved motion to cancel the May 22, 2025, CDMP/Zoning meeting.

The Miami-Dade Board of County Commissioners held a joint meeting with the Miami-Dade Youth Commission on April 1, 2025, at 9:30 AM in the Commission Chambers. The meeting featured presentations from youth commissioners, a swearing-in ceremony, and recognition of community contributions. Following the joint session, the regular BCC meeting commenced, including a public comment period. Presentations & Youth Commission Reports - Youth Commission Chair Martina Jaramillo (District 8) and Secretary Silvana Londoño (District 6) provided opening remarks, highlighting the commission's work over the past year, including passing four resolutions on fentanyl awareness, arts educators, safe volunteerism, and mobile home community protection. They also announced an upcoming legislative tour to Washington, D.C. in June 2025. - Advocacy and Legislation Committee Chair Annie Valido (District 13) presented two proposals: extending mobile home park eviction notice from 6 to 9 months (drafted by Madison Moreno and Alyssa Leon), and implementing background checks for adult volunteers working with children (drafted by Silvana Londoño). - Education and Services Committee Chair Eva Egozi (District 4) discussed the committee's toy drive, a career immersion program with Port Miami, and proposed declaring August 21st as a mandatory fentanyl education and response training day. - Cultural Arts and Community Engagement (CASE) Committee Chair Jasmine Rossi (District 5) highlighted the publication of the 'Arts for Youth Miami' magazine, reaching over 24,000 county residents, and proposed a 'Teach the Arts Day.' - Changemaker Committee Co-Chairs Madison Moreno (District 11) and Suri Chavez (District 9) proposed dedicating April 30, 2025, as 'Young Changemaker Day.' - Commissioner Maurits Acosta (District 13) shared his experience with the FIU Ropes Course, which improved team communication and decision-making. - Commissioner Kaliyah Mobley (District 2) provided details on the FIU Ropes Course activities. - Alyssa Leon (Mayor's Office Representative) announced college decisions for graduating seniors, including Silver Knight nominees and scholarship winners. Public Comments & Testimony - The meeting opened with a call for public comments; no speakers signed up for the joint session. - During the subsequent regular BCC meeting, one public commenter raised concerns about a financial settlement, stating that using Water and Sewer Department (WASD) funds for a settlement would violate bond requirements. The commenter urged the county to pursue litigation if an impasse is reached. Key Outcomes - The joint meeting concluded with a motion to adjourn, which was approved unanimously. - Youth commissioners made several proposals that will be considered in the coming weeks: - Nine-month eviction notice for mobile home park residents (current: six months). - Background checks for adult volunteers working with children. - Mandatory fentanyl education day on August 21st. - Dedication of April 30 as 'Young Changemaker Day.' Recognition & Tributes - Commissioner Cohen Higgins recognized Captain Gustin, a Miami-Dade Fire Rescue firefighter with over 50 years of service, who passed away on March 16, 2025. A moment of silence was observed. - The meeting included an autism awareness proclamation, with Rabbi Harley of the Friendship Circle speaking on the new Friendship Campus in South Dade.

On April 1, 2025, the Miami-Dade Board of County Commissioners and the Hialeah City Council held a joint special meeting to address a conflict resolution proceeding initiated by both parties under Florida Statute Chapter 164. The dispute centers on approximately $17.8 million in unpaid wholesale sewer bills owed by the City of Hialeah to the Miami-Dade Water and Sewer Department (WASD). The meeting included presentations from both sides, extensive discussion, and ultimately resulted in a declaration of impasse and a directive to proceed to mediation. Discussion Items - County Presentation (Chief Roy Coley, WASD): Chief Coley explained that the county charges Hialeah $4.28 per thousand gallons for wastewater services, based on system operating costs with no profit. The dispute involves only one meter (P72) at a connection point. Coley stated that the contract allows both parties to test meters and audit records, but Hialeah has not done so. He presented data showing that the meter has consistently tested within contractual tolerance (98–102% accuracy) and that a third-party expert (the manufacturer) confirmed the meter is functioning properly. He noted that if air is passing through the meter, it would over-read, benefiting Hialeah because the meter in question is a deduct meter for flows from Hialeah Gardens. The outstanding balance is $17.8 million, plus $2.5 million in potential interest. - City of Hialeah Presentation (Kevin Linsky, Public Works Director): Linsky argued that the county’s own internal emails from 2019 (a “smoking gun”) indicated that the meter was incorrectly installed and registering air as wastewater, leading to overcharges. He cited an email from a WASD employee stating that the new meter was “filled with water and air,” which would cause over-registration. Linsky noted that Hialeah had previously received credits for similar issues and that the city had hired an independent expert from the University of Maryland who agreed the meter was registering air. He also stated that the city had paid $50 million during the disputed period and believes the $17.8 million represents overcharges. Linsky acknowledged that the city initially withheld payments but later resumed full payments after he joined the city, before discovering the 2019 email. - Mayor of Hialeah (via Zoom): Mayor Bovo expressed that his administration initially sought to cooperate and pay down the bill, but after reviewing the evidence, believes a deduction is warranted. He asked the commission to consider a deduction to help Hialeah’s residents. Key Outcomes - Motion to Declare Impasse and Mediate: Commissioner Cohen Higgins moved to declare impasse and direct the county mayor to schedule mediation under Chapter 164, with the option to file a lawsuit if mediation fails. The motion was amended by Commissioner Bermudez to require both parties to perform necessary testing before mediation, and by Commissioner Cohen Higgins to require mediation to conclude within 90 days. The motion passed unanimously (13-0) by the County Commission, and the Hialeah City Council voted unanimously in favor (5-0, with one absent). - Motion to Include Reverse Osmosis Plant in Mediation: Senator Garcia moved to include the jointly owned reverse osmosis water treatment plant in the mediation discussions. The motion passed (County vote: 13-0; Hialeah vote: 5-0). However, the county attorney clarified that the reverse osmosis plant issue is separate from the billing dispute and would not be subject to the same litigation timeline; it would require a separate joint meeting. - Resolution 250726 – Tolling Agreement: The commission approved a resolution authorizing a tolling agreement between Miami-Dade County and the City of Hialeah to extend the statute of limitations for all claims related to the sewer billing dispute and the reverse osmosis plant. The resolution passed unanimously (13-0) by the County Commission, and the Hialeah City Council also voted unanimously in favor. - Next Steps: The parties must select a mediator within 14 days (per statute). Mediation must conclude within 90 days. If impasse is reached, the county attorney is directed to file a lawsuit within 14 days. Both sides are to perform independent testing prior to mediation. Additional Notes - Commissioner Regalado emphasized that any credit would impact WASD bond covenants and could not come from WASD funds, only from the general fund. She also noted that the county is not responsible for the reverse osmosis plant’s construction. - Commissioner Gilbert questioned why Hialeah did not exercise its contractual rights to test the meter or audit the county before invoking dispute resolution. - The meeting also included a brief discussion on the broader issue of independent water systems, with Commissioner Regalado suggesting that Hialeah consider selling its entire water system to the county.

The Miami-Dade Board of County Commissioners held a full-day meeting on April 1, 2025, beginning at 9:30 AM. The agenda included special presentations, routine consent items, and two major policy debates: a comprehensive overhaul of concession agreements at Miami International Airport and a resolution to remove fluoride from the county's drinking water. Commissioners also honored retiring staff and the late Congressman Lincoln Díaz-Balart. Consent Calendar Unanimously approved (13-0) included: reports on the Aviation Capital Program, Summer Youth Internship Program, veteran hiring, illicit discharges to Biscayne Bay; acceptance of the Library Advisory Board sunset review; approval of CBO discretionary allocations; mayoral appointment of Stacy Miller as Director of Transportation and Public Works; first readings of several ordinances (environmental permits, special taxing districts, budget information requirements); and numerous routine resolutions. Public Comments & Testimony During the "Reasonable Opportunity" period, over 15 citizens spoke, the vast majority urging the commission to end water fluoridation, citing health risks (neurotoxicity, thyroid issues, lack of informed consent). A few dentists spoke in favor of retaining fluoride, calling for a public workshop. No public testimony was heard on the airport concessions item beyond brief procedural comments. Discussion Items Airport Concessions Overhaul (Item 11A5): This major resolution, sponsored by Commissioners Cohen Higgins and Cabrera, amended existing lease and concession agreements at Miami International Airport, providing term extensions in exchange for a minimum of $331 million in capital improvements. The commission adopted multiple amendments, including: (1) directing the administration to negotiate with several new concessionaires identified by commissioners (Zaxby's, Vicky Bakery, and others); (2) opening a 30-day window for additional businesses to express interest; (3) adding incentives for single-use plastic reduction; and (4) clarifying that all new concessionaires must meet the same investment and performance standards as existing ones. Supporters argued the deal was necessary to modernize the airport quickly, while opponents criticized the lack of a competitive process and "picking winners." Fluoride Removal (Item 11A10): Commissioner Gonzalez's resolution to end the practice of adding fluoride to Miami-Dade's water supply sparked intense debate. Supporters pointed to a federal court ruling finding fluoride poses an "unreasonable risk" to children's IQ, the availability of fluoride in toothpaste, and the principle of informed consent. Opponents argued the county lacked the scientific expertise to make this decision, warned of potential litigation and contract violations with wholesale customers, and criticized the process for bypassing committee hearings. The resolution was amended to: (a) remove a $150,000 public awareness campaign (replaced by notices in water bills and PSAs); (b) require 30-day notice to wholesale municipal customers; and (c) require a report within 60 days on grant opportunities for a dental health campaign. Other Items: The commission approved a resolution directing the Water and Sewer Department to study parity-based fee structures for airport lounges, and passed several motions for budget allocations and appointments. Key Outcomes - Airport Concessions: Resolution 11A5 adopted as amended (approved with majority vote). - Fluoride Removal: Resolution 11A10 adopted as amended (passed with two dissenting votes). - Appointments: Robin Libby Jacobs to the Tourist Development Council; Lt. Gov. Jeanette Nunez to fill a vacancy. - Directives: The administration was directed to conduct a study on lounge fees, to add a subcontractor for road maintenance outsourcing, and to accept used printer cartridges for recycling from county offices. - Adjournment: The meeting adjourned after several hours of debate.

The Miami-Dade Board of County Commissioners held a Comprehensive Development Master Plan (CDMP) and Zoning public hearing on March 20, 2025. The meeting addressed three main items: a deferred zoning application, a small-scale CDMP amendment for a Lennar Homes project, and a small-scale CDMP amendment for a Shemesh Inc. warehouse expansion. All votes were unanimous (8-0). Deferred Item (8A1) – Garcia Carrillo 56 Street Revocable Trust - Item 8A1 (Z2022000118), located at 5979 SW 56 Street, was previously deferred on January 24, 2024, and came before the board again. Commissioner Raquel Regalado (District 7) explained that the application had changed and that the neighborhood association’s attorney had withdrawn a request for deferral. She urged residents to meet with the developer to understand options, noting that without the rezoning, the developer could build 16 duplex units as-of-right using a workforce housing bonus. The board voted to defer the item to May 22, 2025, to allow additional time for resident-developer dialogue. The motion passed 8-0. Public Comments & Testimony - Item 3A (Lennar Homes): One speaker, Patrick Burkhead (property owner adjacent to the site), opposed the application. He argued that the development is unnecessary, disruptive to the agrarian environment, and that traffic is unsustainable. He expressed concern that new housing would not serve existing residents. - Item 3B (Shemesh Inc.): Two speakers opposed the zoning change. Estel Bar (Gladial HOA) stated the warehouse is an eyesore and that the community wants to keep the neighborhood clean. Robin Rowe (Glayview area) disapproved, citing trash, rodents, and traffic concerns. An unrelated speaker, Jorge Obando, spoke about a personal housing issue not related to the application. Discussion Items Item 3A – Lennar Homes CDMP Application (CDMP20240002) & Zoning 8C2 - The application requested a change from EU1 to EUM zoning to allow up to 17 single-family units with workforce housing bonus. The property is located on the south side of SW 355 Street between SW 189 and SW 192 Avenues (District 9). - Staff recommended adoption with a change: designating the land as Low-Medium Density with a DI1 density increase (rather than the requested Low-Medium Density at 13 units/acre) and including 7.75 abutting acres to the south as Low Density with DI1. Staff found the application would not trigger roadway mitigation despite some failing roadways. - The applicant (represented by Hugo Arza) agreed to provide a proffered declaration of restrictions within 10 days; otherwise the application would be deemed withdrawn. - Commissioner Kionne McGhee moved approval per staff recommendation, seconded by Commissioner Juan Carlos Bermudez. The motion passed 8-0. Item 3B – Shemesh Inc. CDMP Application (CDMP20230014) & Zoning 8C1 - The application sought to rezone a 1-acre parcel (east of NW 32 Avenue between NW 68 and NW 69 Streets) for a kosher food distribution warehouse expansion. The site has been a warehouse since 1970. - Staff recommended approval with conditions, including buffering and landscaping. The Planning Advisory Board (PAB) had recommended 9-0 approval. - Commissioner Marleine Bastien (District 2) asked about beautification. The applicant (Miguel Diaz de la Portilla) stated the covenant requires buffering and landscaping on all sides, and that the project would clean up the blighted area. - Commissioner Bastien moved approval per staff recommendation, seconded by Commissioner Danielle Cohen Higgins. The motion passed 8-0. Key Outcomes - Item 8A1 (Garcia Carrillo): Deferred to May 22, 2025 (8-0 vote). - Item 3A (Lennar Homes): CDMP amendment adopted with conditions (8-0). Companion zoning item 8C2 approved per staff recommendation (8-0). - Item 3B (Shemesh Inc.): CDMP amendment adopted with conditions (8-0). Companion zoning item 8C1 approved per staff recommendation (8-0). - All votes were taken after public hearings were closed. The board noted that fine violations on the Shemesh property had been resolved.