Public Meetings - Miami Dade County, Florida

The Miami-Dade County Board of County Commissioners convened on September 24, 2026, at 9:30 AM for a Comprehensive Development Master Plan (CDMP) and Zoning public hearing. The meeting began with a presentation honoring Laura Murilla for her 33 years of service, followed by roll call (11 members present, quorum), invocation, and agenda setting. Commissioners addressed several CDMP amendments, zoning applications, and appeals, resulting in multiple deferrals, approvals, and denials. Deferrals - Item 8C4 (Homestead Office, LLC): Deferred by the District 8 commissioner to a future date. Motion passed unanimously. - Items 7A and 8C3 (GPC Miami Business Park / American Bankers Life Assurance Co.): Deferred to October 22, 2026, by Vice Chairman McGhee to allow time for a community meeting and further discussion. Motion passed with one nay (Commissioner unspecified). - Items 3A, 3A1, 8C6 (Lennar Homes / Dunagan's Fruit Groves): Deferred to October 22, 2026, after extensive discussion about traffic analysis and sheriff staffing concerns raised by Commissioner Cohen Higgins. Motion passed with two nays recorded. Public Comments & Testimony - Items 3A/8C6: Multiple residents spoke. Magali Fernandez supported the project as fitting for the community. John Kerr opposed, citing increased traffic and insufficient infrastructure (schools, fire station, medical). Melissa Ortega and Fiorella Cangelosi supported Lennar Homes, noting positive community engagement and desire for family opportunities. Rosemary Giuseppe supported, stating homeownership was a beneficial decision. - Item 8A1 (Miami Dade SNF Holding): No public speakers registered. - Item 8B1 (Valemar Holding): Approximately 546 residents submitted written objections. Public speakers included Erica Garcia (leader of 147th Avenue Neighbors United, 280 members), Jeanette Moore (supported responsible growth), George Reyes (appellant, concerned citizen of West Dade), Stephen Marquez (president of Millennium Town Homes, opposed building height and compatibility), Maruja Gonzalez (special education teacher, cited school bus traffic impacts), Javier Sotomayor (opposed spot zoning), and Dahlia Perez Ordaz (cited binding deed restrictions prohibiting apartments). - Items 4B, 4C, 4A: No public speakers. - Item 7B/8C2 (Biscayne Shores): Tracy Slavin spoke in support, citing revitalization of the Biscayne Boulevard corridor. - Item 8C5, 8C7, 8C8: No public speakers. Discussion Items - Items 3A/8C6 – Lennar / Dunagan's Fruit Groves (40 acres, 185 single-family homes): Commissioner Cohen Higgins questioned the traffic concurrency analysis, noting that roads abutting the project (SW 276th and 278th Streets) were not analyzed. Planning staff explained that only major section-line roads with traffic count stations are routinely studied, and adjacent roadways may be evaluated in a traffic impact study if thresholds are met. The applicant noted that the project would generate 4.6 units per acre, well below the 36 units allowed in the transit corridor. Sheriff's Office comments indicated a projected need for three additional deputies (cost $370,000) due to increased calls for service. Commissioner Cohen Higgins expressed concern about approving housing without addressing public safety staffing. After debate, she moved to defer to work with the applicant and sheriff's office to find a remedy. - Item 8A1 – Miami Dade SNF Holding (57 townhomes): Commissioner Gonzalez (District 11) initially deferred this item in June for traffic analysis. The applicant presented revised plans: right-turn-only exit, signal timing improvements along Kendall Drive from SW 157th Avenue to 177th Avenue (Chrome Avenue), expected to reduce delays by 27% AM and 31% PM peak, with up to 87% reduction at some intersections. Traffic engineering staff confirmed the synchronization will improve progression, but no new road capacity is added. Commissioner Gonzalez moved to deny, citing that even with synchronization, adding more cars to Kendall Drive (already at capacity) is untenable and that West Kendall needs more jobs to reduce commute traffic. The denial was based on traffic level of service as substantial competent evidence. Motion passed 9-0. - Item 8B1 – Valemar Holding (33 apartments on 1.4 acres, appeal of CZAB approval): Appellants argued the project is incompatible with surrounding single-family homes, exceeds height (37'8" vs. 28' stated), provides insufficient open space (33% vs. 40% required), and violates deed restrictions prohibiting apartments. The applicant countered that the project was reduced from 40 to 33 units, generates less traffic than the approved office building (56 PM peak trips for office vs. 35 for apartments), and is within a transit corridor. The district commissioner (Gonzalez) noted the area already has multiple schools causing congestion and moved to approve the appeal (deny the application), citing cumulative traffic impacts. Several commissioners supported the district commissioner, though Commissioner Regalado cautioned that repeated denials of residential may require a moratorium rather than piecemeal decisions. Motion passed unanimously. - Items 4B/4B1 – Cargo Container Storage Text Amendment: Prime sponsor Commissioner Gilbert proposed allowing container storage and stacking (up to 6-high) on designated truck parking areas outside the Urban Development Boundary (UDB) in two areas: Open Land 1 sub-area (northwest) and Agriculture area (south). Commissioner Regalado offered a friendly amendment to also apply to areas designated for inland ports. The amendment was accepted. Commissioners discussed the need to free up space for trucks and contain containers. Motion passed unanimously. - Items 4C/4C1 – Water Supply Facilities Work Plan: Prime sponsor Commissioner Regalado moved adoption to update the water, sewer, and solid waste element of the CDMP. No discussion. Passed unanimously. - Items 4A/4A1 – Business Support Center (Midwest REO): This text amendment would create a new “Business Support Center” category allowing vertical mixed-use industrial/office/commercial on 5-10 acre parcels within one mile of designated terminals (airports, seaports). Commissioner Regalado raised concerns that “light industrial” uses are too broad and not tethered to terminal activities. She suggested tying uses to the industry conducted at the terminal (e.g., aeronautics, logistics). Commissioner Milian Orbis proposed an amendment to require the applicant to work with staff on revisions to tether uses. The amendment was accepted. Commissioner Steinberg asked about locations outside the UDB; staff confirmed such sites would require a UDB expansion. Motion passed unanimously. - Items 7B/8C2 – Biscayne Shores (CDMP and zoning): Commissioner Hardeman moved to approve, including a proffered Declaration of Restrictions providing public benefits (including scholarships) and a new Durham covenant for environmental assessment. Commissioner Steinberg voted no, citing concerns about impacts on her district from increased density along the RTZ corridor. Motion passed 7-1. - Item 8C5 – Cimabian (zoning): Approved unanimously with no discussion. - Item 8C7 – Grey Porras Alfaro (zoning): Commissioner Hardeman denied the application, citing numerous non-use variances (setbacks, lot coverage) that would negatively impact neighbors. He noted the property is over 7,000 sq. ft. and variances were not justified. Motion passed unanimously. - Item 8C8 – TAF SDGC (zoning): Commissioner Cohen Higgins moved approval with minor modifications to conditions (adding “future phase” for canal walkway and striking specific unit count from affordable housing condition). Vice Chairman McGhee voted no. Motion passed 7-1. Key Outcomes - Approved (unanimous): 8C1 (zoning), 4B/4B1 (as amended), 4C/4C1, 4A/4A1 (as amended), 8C5, 8C8 (7-1, one nay). - Approved (7-1): 7B/8C2 (Biscayne Shores) – Commissioner Steinberg opposed. - Denied (9-0): 8A1 (zoning, based on traffic concerns). - Denied (unanimous): 8C7 (zoning, variances), 8B1 (appeal upheld, application denied). - Deferred to October 22, 2026: Items 3A/3A1/8C6, 7A/8C3, and 8C4. - Adjournment: Meeting adjourned after completion of all agenda items.

On September 17, 2026, the Miami-Dade Board of County Commissioners held its second and final public hearing to adopt millage rates, fees, and budgets for fiscal year 2026-27 (October 1, 2026 – September 30, 2027). The meeting began at 5:01 p.m. and lasted until the early morning of September 18. Commissioners voted on eight ordinances covering countywide general fund, debt service, unincorporated municipal service area (UMSA), fire rescue, library, proprietary budgets, and special assessment districts. Extensive public comment and board debate focused on public safety funding (Sheriff’s Office), transit service cuts, environmentally endangered lands (EEL) funding, water and sewer rate increases, and community-based organization (CBO) support. Consent Calendar - All eight budget ordinances (Items A–H) were approved after various amendments, with the following final votes: - Item A (Countywide General Fund Millage): Passed 11–1. - Item B (Bonded Debt Service Millage): Passed 12–1. - Item C (Countywide General Fund Budget): Passed 8–3 after multiple amendments. - Item D (UMSA Operating Millage): Passed 9–2. - Item E (UMSA Fund Budget): Passed 10–3. - Item F (Fire Rescue Service District Millage): Passed unanimously. - Item G (Library System Millage): Passed unanimously. - Item H (Proprietary and Other Budgets): Passed 10–3 (including bifurcation of water/sewer rate increase). Public Comments & Testimony Over 100 residents spoke, with positions on the following key issues: - Arts & Culture: Speakers (e.g., Heaven Jones, Mark Fahet, Pedro Diaz) urged continued and increased funding for the Department of Cultural Affairs, citing economic impact ($2.1 billion annually) and youth development. - Environmentally Endangered Lands (EEL): Dozens (e.g., Melissa Ortega, Rachel Silverstein, Andrea Miró) requested restoring EEL funding to $20 million, emphasizing flood protection, storm surge reduction, and biodiversity. Some noted a 54% budget cut over two years. - Public Transit: Riders and advocates (e.g., Shakquis Floyd, Cathy Dos Santos, Thomas Bussey) opposed cuts to early morning and late-night bus service, warning that 45 routes before 6 a.m. and 38 after 10 p.m. would be eliminated. Many noted reliance on transit for work, school, and medical appointments. - Water & Sewer Rate Increase: Several speakers (e.g., Elizabeth Boone, Steven Vargas, David Putt) supported the proposed 6% rate adjustment, arguing it is needed for infrastructure compliance with federal consent decree and ocean outfall requirements. A few opposed, citing cumulative burden on families. - Sheriff’s Office Funding: Multiple speakers (e.g., Sharon Frazier, Keith Biggins) urged full funding for the Sheriff’s Office, emphasizing low starting salaries and understaffing relative to other Florida agencies. - Community-Based Organizations (CBOs): Representatives (e.g., Amanda Altman, Maria Giamont) requested a 3% increase in funding to sustain safety-net services, pointing to rising demand. - Illegal Dumping: Employees (e.g., Michael Estavillo, Jose Escobar) opposed cuts to the illegal dumping unit, noting 9 positions would be eliminated, impacting neighborhood cleanliness and public health. Discussion Items Sheriff’s Office Budget: Sheriff Rosie Cordero-Stutz presented a request for a $55 million increase (total $1.2 billion), stating that $62.5 million is a mandatory collective bargaining obligation that the mayor’s proposed $55 million increase does not cover. She warned of canceling 6.5 academy classes, resulting in 180 fewer deputies by end of FY 2026-27. Mayor Levine Cava’s administration countered that the proposal funds all requested positions with a 6% attrition assumption, and that the Sheriff’s Office could hire as many as possible with carryover funds. After debate, Chairman Rodriguez offered an amendment allocating an additional $11.376 million from tax collector surplus to the Sheriff’s Office for personnel uses. The Sheriff declined to rule out appealing to the state if not fully funded. Transit Cuts: Mayor Levine Cava announced restoration of early-morning service (before 6 a.m.) on 45 routes costing $12.5 million. Late-night and eliminated routes remained unfunded. Commissioner Bastien proposed restoring her district’s eliminated routes, which evolved into a broader discussion. Ultimately, the board directed the administration to prepare a model for a 50-cent fare increase (by resolution on October 6) and to return with a plan to restore evening and eliminated routes, funded by the fare increase and other savings. EEL Funding: Commissioner Cohen Higgins moved to transfer $12 million from the utility service fee reserve to EEL for land acquisition and restoration. The motion passed 11–2. Additional EEL funding came from Commissioner Regalado’s motion to create a 501(c)(3) for EEL and explore naming rights and public donations. Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (GMCVB): Chairman Rodriguez proposed $5 million to GMCVB for attracting major events, with a requirement for matching funds and clawback provisions. Passed 8–4 after debate. Illegal Dumping: Chairman Rodriguez moved $3.2 million from solid waste interest earnings to fully fund the illegal dumping unit, code enforcement, and litter pickup. Passed unanimously. Clerk of Court Funding: Commissioner Bastien’s motion to allocate $1.536 million from future services reserve to restore 14 positions in the Comptroller Finance Department passed unanimously. Hialeah Reverse Osmosis Plant: Commissioner Milian Orbis’s motion to continue dispute resolution with Hialeah and provide updates every 60 days passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - Millage Rates Adopted: All millage rates approved as proposed (countywide, UMSA, fire, library, debt service). - Additional Sheriff Funding: $11.376 million from tax collector surplus allocated to Sheriff’s Office for personnel. - Transit Restoration: Early-morning bus service restored ($12.5 million); administration directed to prepare fare increase (50 cents) and return with plan to restore evening and eliminated routes by October 6. - EEL Funding: $12 million from utility service fee reserve allocated to EEL; also directed creation of 501(c)(3) and naming rights program. - Illegal Dumping: $3.2 million restored from solid waste interest earnings. - GMCVB: $5 million allocated for major events, contingent on matching funds and clawback provisions. - Community-Based Organizations: Funded at flat level (same as prior year); no increase approved. - Water & Sewer Rate Increase: Section 22 of Item H (6% rate adjustment) was bifurcated and approved 7–6. - Future Reserves: Remaining future services reserve balance after amendments approximately $5.8 million. - Amendment 3 Contingency Plan: Commissioner Orbis’s motion passed unanimously requiring a report within 60 days of election certification detailing projected revenue losses. - Next Steps: The board will consider a fare increase resolution and transit restoration plan at the October 6 meeting.

The Infrastructure, Innovation & Technology Committee met on September 10, 2026, at 17:15 UTC (afternoon session) with three members present: Chairwoman Micky Steinberg, Vice Chairman Keon Hardeman, and Commissioner Danielle Cohen Higgins. Commissioner Roberto J. Gonzalez and Commissioner Vicki L. Lopez were absent. The committee considered an ordinance to create a loan program for environmental remediation on large county-owned parcels, among other items. After extensive debate, the ordinance was deferred to the next committee meeting on October 15, 2026. Agenda Setting & Consent Items - The committee approved the official printed agenda with the addition of Item 1G1 substitute (the remediation loan ordinance). - Item 3C (garbage collection services contract extension) was pulled by the chairwoman and deferred by the administration. - Item 3F (AC replacement contract) was advanced to the next meeting. The balance of the agenda was approved by unanimous acclamation. Discussion Items - Ordinance 261035/1G1 Substitute – Environmental Remediation Loan Program - Sponsor: Commissioner Raquel A. Regalado (not a voting member of the committee) presented the substitute ordinance. It amends Section 24-34 of the county code to establish a zero-interest loan program using a portion of the Utility Service Fee (USF) fund (currently $181 million) to finance environmental remediation on county-owned parcels 10 acres or larger. - Administration (Andisha Daniel, Director of Solid Waste, and other staff): Stated that $125 million is programmed for existing projects, and $23 million is estimated for closure and long-term care of the former waste-to-energy site, leaving approximately $33 million unprogrammed. The administration expressed concerns about depleting funds needed for other mandatory remediation. - Commissioner Cohen Higgins questioned the use of ratepayer money for zero-interest loans to developers, noting that developers are already obligated to remediate under lease agreements. She proposed adding an interest rate, a loan cap, and a sunset period. - Commissioner Hardeman argued that the fund has been underutilized for years and that the loan program would spur remediation in underserved areas, particularly for affordable housing projects. He emphasized that the county has a duty to remediate its own properties and that making loans available does not force the county to spend money it cannot afford. - Chairwoman Steinberg suggested freezing the loan program’s available funds at the current unprogrammed balance ($33 million) to ensure clarity, and proposed a two-year sunset to revisit the program's effectiveness. - After extensive back-and-forth, the maker (Commissioner Regalado) agreed to amendments including: a two-year sunset, a work program to be provided by the administration, an interest rate to be set by the mayor/mayor's designee, and a loan cap per eligible property also set by the administration. However, Commissioner Cohen Higgins indicated she would vote accordingly based on ambiguity in the amendments. Key Outcomes - Motion to move the ordinance without recommendation failed due to lack of unanimity. - Motion to defer Item 1G1 to the October 15, 2026 committee meeting was moved by Chairwoman Steinberg, seconded by Commissioner Hardeman, and passed by acclamation. The administration was directed to provide a complete list of programmed projects, a rate card (interest rate and cap recommendations), and a work program before that meeting. - Item 3C (additional time and funds for garbage collection services) was deferred by the administration. - Item 3F (AC replacement contract) was advanced to the next meeting as requested by the administration. - No public comments were received.

On September 10, 2026, the Miami-Dade County Intergovernmental and Economic Impact Committee convened in Commission Chambers. Chairwoman Natalie Milian Orbis presided; Vice Chairwoman Vicki L. Lopez, Commissioner Danielle Cohen Higgins, and Sen. Rene Garcia were present. Commissioner Roberto J. Gonzalez was absent. The committee established a quorum, adopted its agenda, heard one public comment, and forwarded several items to the full County Commission. Consent Calendar - The committee adopted the agenda, including the requested deferral of items 1G1 and 2B to no date certain and the addition of Commissioner Lopez as co-sponsor of item 2C. - The Clerk’s summary of minutes for the July 15, 2026 committee meeting was approved. Public Comments & Testimony - Chad Burkhalter, acting city manager for the City of Florida City, reported that the city had a change in leadership on Tuesday and its planner could not attend. He requested deferral of the Florida City annexation items on the agenda. No other members of the public spoke during the reasonable opportunity to be heard. Discussion Items - Item 3B (Resolution 261567): The committee reviewed a $19,721,600.00 Sourcewell contract for critical care and EMS equipment. Commissioner Cohen Higgins said she supported the item but requested more detail, including number of defibrillators, cost per unit, date of last purchase, and market-rate comparison. Jason Fernandez of Miami-Dade Fire Rescue said the item covers 75 defibrillators at approximately $40,000 each, plus stretchers and consumables, and that 150 units had already been purchased under an adjacent contract. He said the department’s current defibrillators are 12 years old and end-of-life. Staff stated that advanced life-pack defibrillators generally range from $35,000 to $50,000, making the price consistent with the market. Fire Rescue Chief Edwards asked that the item be moved to the next board meeting to meet the department’s procurement timeline, with the requested breakdown included. The committee agreed. Key Outcomes - Item 1G1 (Ordinance 261266), the Florida City charter amendment and annexation of unincorporated Area J, was deferred 3–0 to no date certain. - Item 2B (Resolution 261500), the annexation interlocal agreement between Miami-Dade County and the City of Florida City, was deferred 3–0 to no date certain. - Item 2A (Resolution 261334) was forwarded to the County Commission with a favorable recommendation 3–0, reappointing Leviticus L. Gilliard and Tyreke Spann to the West Perrine Community Redevelopment Agency Board and designating Gilliard as Chairman and Spann as Vice-Chairman. - Item 2C (Resolution 261413) was forwarded to the County Commission with a favorable recommendation 3–0, directing the International Trade Consortium to negotiate and prepare a sister cities agreement with the City of Brasília, Brazil, and to monitor its performance. - Item 3A (Resolution 261464) was forwarded to the County Commission with a favorable recommendation 3–0, ratifying vendor additions to open prequalification pools for January 1 through June 30, 2026. - Item 3B (Resolution 261567) was forwarded to the County Commission with a favorable recommendation 3–0 after discussion; the Fire Rescue Department is to provide Commissioner Cohen Higgins with a detailed expenditure breakdown. The meeting adjourned after the committee completed its agenda.

The Housing Committee convened on September 9, 2026, at 12:30 PM (agenda time) and considered two public hearings: the Fiscal Year 2025-2029 Five-Year Public Housing Agency Plan (Item 1G1) and an amendment to the Local Housing Assistance Plan (Item 1G2) required by Senate Bill 594. The committee also approved resolutions related to the Infill Housing Program and the clerk's minutes. Discussions focused on the county's new attainable housing instrumentality, mobile home park closure assistance, and concerns about government involvement in housing development. Consent Calendar - The remainder of the agenda (Item 2A – Amended and Restated County Deeds for Infill Housing Program, and Item 6A – Approval of the Clerk's Summary of Minutes for July 14, 2026) was moved and passed unanimously without separate discussion. Public Comments & Testimony - Item 1G1 (Five-Year Plan): Winita Holmes, a homeless senior with disabilities, expressed disappointment that a congressional priority for people with disabilities had been reduced to a preference point. She also complained about mistreatment by contractors and staff. - Item 1G2 (Local Housing Assistance Plan Amendment): Multiple speakers addressed mobile home park closures: - Alice Jin Joseph (Soar Park resident) argued that the proposed $10,000 compensation for homeowners is far below the area's median price of $40,000–$50,000 and urged a fair agreement before evictions. - Ahmed Mori (housing advocate) supported the county's effort to implement SB 594 but requested raising the $10,000 cap, ensuring municipalities not eligible for SHIP funds are covered, and exploring use of SHIP funds for land acquisition. - Paul Christian (Family Action Network Movement) asked for fair compensation for mobile homeowners, noting that $10,000 does not cover relocation and property loss, especially for elderly residents. - Carrie Feit (Community Justice Project attorney) cautioned that relocation assistance should not substitute for park owner compensation and recommended raising the cap. She also noted that the Florida Housing Finance Corporation corrected language to cover homeowners "facing park closure." - Alisa Vignale (real estate developer) proposed a pilot using factory-built homes on public land under ground lease, but was asked to conclude before finishing. - Jeffrey Hearn (Legal Services of Greater Miami) stressed that mobile homes are often the last unsubsidized affordable housing and that the program should supplement, not replace, developer obligations. - Mariano Choa (neighbor of Silver Court Mobile Home Park residents) asked that residents inside municipalities (e.g., City of Miami) not be left out and requested a meeting with Commissioner Regalado. - Additional residents from Soar Park (including a Spanish speaker) described receiving eviction notices and said $10,000 is insufficient given the high cost of living. One resident noted that residents who accepted the $10,000 now face economic hardship. - Final public comment on both items: A speaker emphasized that relocation costs are often far higher than the assistance and that land for relocation should also be considered. Discussion Items - Item 1G1 – Five-Year Plan and Miami-Dade Attainable Housing Corp.: Director Nathan (HCD) explained that the five-year plan must include the newly established 501c3 instrumentality (Miami-Dade Attainable Housing Corp.) because the board created it and HUD needs notification. Commissioner McGee questioned the lack of community notice and expressed strong skepticism about the county becoming a developer, citing personal experience growing up in housing projects that later deteriorated. He worried that resources for maintenance and management would not follow. Commissioners Lopez and Bermudez shared similar philosophical concerns, agreeing the county should not replicate what the private sector does well. Commissioner Regalado noted that the plan only mirrors what the board already approved and that safeguards can be addressed when the shared-use agreement comes to the board. The director agreed to meet with Commissioner McGee to discuss management standards. - Item 1G2 – SHIP Plan Amendment: The administration proposed an amendment to align with SB 594: adding "extremely low" income categories, changing relocation assistance language to target those "deprived of housing" rather than "evicted," and removing the reference to eviction due to mobile home park closure. Commissioner Lopez questioned the $10,000 cap, noting Miami-Dade's higher costs. Director Nathan explained that SHIP funding is limited (roughly $1.5–2 million after other obligations) and that the cap came from Florida Housing guidance. He confirmed the county can adjust the amount during implementation. Commissioner McGee suggested conducting an inventory of mobile home parks in unincorporated areas and studying best practices from other large counties. Commissioner Regalado pointed out that municipalities receiving SHIP (like Miami) are also required to amend their plans, and that the county should prioritize unincorporated areas and municipalities without SHIP. She also mentioned a state Mobile Home Relocation Trust Fund as another resource. The chair directed the director to meet with community organizations and residents to refine the program. Key Outcomes - Item 1G1 (Resolution 261477): Passed unanimously (5-0) after a public hearing. The resolution approves the FY 2025-2029 Five-Year Public Housing Agency Plan and authorizes its submission to HUD. - Item 1G2 (Resolution 261484, as amended): Passed unanimously (5-0) after a public hearing. The amendment adopted aligns the Local Housing Assistance Plan with SB 594 requirements, including adding "extremely low" income categories and updating relocation assistance language. The director will conduct further outreach and analysis of mobile home park needs, caps, and best practices. - The remainder of the agenda (Items 2A and 6A) was approved without objection. - Director Nathan committed to meeting with Commissioner McGee and other stakeholders to discuss management standards for the housing instrumentality and to present a detailed shared-use agreement at a future board meeting.

The Recreation, Tourism, and Resiliency Committee met on September 9, 2026, with Vice Chairwoman Steinberg presiding. Commissioners Bastian, McGee, and Regalado were present, forming a quorum. Commissioner Garcia was absent. After a moment of silence and the Pledge of Allegiance, the committee set the agenda with several add-ons and a deferral request. The meeting included a public hearing on a proposed ordinance and discussion of several items. Agenda Setting - The agenda was set with six add-ons and supplements. Item 1G1 and its supplement were deferred to the October 14 committee meeting at the sponsor's request. Public Comments - No members of the public spoke during the reasonable opportunity to be heard. Two individuals (Aaron Cover and Amanda Prieto) had signed up to speak on deferred item 1G1; they were informed they would have a full opportunity at the October meeting. Discussion Items - Item 1G1 (Deferred): Commissioner Regalado expressed concerns about the proposed process, suggesting it could limit transparency and create a "slippery slope." The sponsor responded by noting that a variance through the Environmental Quality Control Board (EQCB) might be a better approach and emphasized the need for public records on water quality. The committee agreed to hold a sunshine meeting to further discuss options before the October hearing. - Item 1G2: Ordinance Creating the Miami-Dade County Voter Safety and Bay Education Advisory Board: The committee held a public hearing. James Merley, designee of the Mayor on the Miami River Commission, spoke in support, asking that the board include a representative from the Miami River. Commissioner Regalado questioned the cost, lack of financial participation from other municipalities, and the absence of a sunset provision. He suggested exploring a fee structure tied to boater permits. Commissioner Bastian supported the item and requested to be listed as a co-sponsor. The committee voted unanimously to approve. - Item 2B (Sponsorship by Commissioner Regalado): Commissioner Regalado recommended amending the item to also include Miami-Dade County Public Schools and to prioritize in-kind partnerships before spending Animal Services funds. The maker’s representative stated they believed existing resources could cover the proposal. Consent Calendar - Item 1G3: An ordinance on another matter was moved and passed unanimously without discussion. - Balance of the Agenda: The remaining items (including items 3A and 3C sponsored by Commissioner Regalado) were moved and passed by acclamation. Key Outcomes - Item 1G1: Deferred to the October 14, 2026 committee meeting; a sunshine meeting will be scheduled beforehand. - Items 1G2 and 1G3: Both ordinances passed unanimously. - Remaining Items: Approved as a block. - Co-sponsorships: Commissioner Bastian added as co-sponsor on 1G2; Commissioner Regalado took sponsorship of 3A and 3C.

A committee of the Miami-Dade County Commission met on September 9, 2026, at 2:15 PM to consider ordinances amending the Rapid Transit System Development Zone to add private property to the Metro Mover subzone. The meeting was chaired by Chairman Gilbert, with Commissioners Bastian and Bermudez present, constituting a quorum. No members of the public addressed the committee. Agenda and Procedural Matters - The committee adopted the agenda by unanimous voice vote, incorporating a changes memo that added supplements for items 1G1 and 1G2 and withdrew item 3J. Discussion Items - Item 1G1: An ordinance relating to the Rapid Transit System Development Zone, amending Section 33-C-2 of the Miami-Dade County Code to add certain private property to the Metro Mover subzone. The committee approved the ordinance by a unanimous roll call vote (Commissioners Bastian, Bermudez, Gilbert in favor). - Item 1G2: An ordinance relating to the Rapid Transit System Development Zone, amending Section 33-C-2 to add certain private property to the Metro Mover subzone. The committee approved the ordinance by a unanimous roll call vote (Commissioners Bastian, Bermudez, Gilbert in favor). Key Outcomes - Both ordinances (1G1 and 1G2) passed unanimously, amending the Rapid Transit System Development Zone to add specified private properties to the Metro Mover subzone. - The balance of the agenda was approved unanimously by voice vote. - The meeting was adjourned without further business.

The Safety and Health Committee of the Miami-Dade County Commission met on September 8, 2026, at 12:30 PM, chaired by Chairman Roberto J. Gonzalez. Commissioners Marleine Bastien, Keon Hardemon, and Vicki L. Lopez were present; Vice Chairman Garcia was absent. The committee considered a consent calendar of routine resolutions and a special presentation, and unanimously approved all items, forwarding them to the full Board of County Commissioners with a favorable recommendation (4-0). Consent Calendar - 2A (Resolution 261396): Declared certain firefighting equipment surplus and authorized donation to Korps Brandweer Suriname, waiving standard disposition procedures. Forwarded 4-0. - 3A (Resolution 261471): Authorized retroactive acceptance and expenditure of up to $3,405,936 from the U.S. DOT’s Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) grant for the Whole Blood Initiative through Miami-Dade Fire Rescue, plus up to $851,484 in Fire District funds for match. Commissioner Lopez co-sponsored. Forwarded 4-0. - 3B (Resolution 261457): Authorized retroactive acceptance and expenditure of up to $7,736,674 from the U.S. Department of War’s Defense Community Infrastructure Program (DCIP) for construction of Fire Station 77 near Homestead Air Reserve Base, plus up to $5,018,217 in Fire District match. Forwarded 4-0. - 3C (Resolution 261389): Approved a five-year lease (with one five-year renewal option) with Suited for Success, Inc. for county property at 1600 NW 3 Ave., Room 111, Miami, at a cumulative fiscal impact of $149,342.02. Chairman Gonzalez, Commissioner Lopez, and Commissioner Bastien co-sponsored. Forwarded 4-0. - 3D (Resolution 261388): Authorized additional expenditure authority of $1,201,600 for Janitorial Supplies Pool (EVN0000040), raising the total modified cumulative pool to $24,402,100. Forwarded 4-0. - 3E (Resolution 261447): Authorized establishment of a $15,000,000, five-year prequalification pool for Structural Firefighting Personal Protective Equipment (Group 4). Forwarded 4-0. - 3F (Resolution 261449): Waived competitive bidding (by two-thirds vote) and authorized additional three years and $1,200,000 for Electronic Patient Care Reporting Software contract (BW-10321), raising total to $2,299,167. Forwarded 4-0. - 3G (Resolution 261450): Awarded three contracts for Structural Firefighting PPE: Municipal Equipment Company, LLC ($11,424,996), Ten-8 Fire & Safety, LLC ($11,824,946), and Viking Life-Saving Equipment, Inc. ($10,725,058), total combined $33,975,000 for five years. Forwarded 4-0. - 3H (Resolution 261461): Authorized additional $1,170,000 for Fire Alarms & Fire Detection Equipment contract (EVN0000649), raising total to $6,168,610. Forwarded 4-0. - 3I (Resolution 261462): Authorized additional $4,849,000 for Public Safety & Emergency Equipment & Services contract (4400008468), raising total to $50,541,748. Forwarded 4-0. - 3J (Resolution 261487): Authorized retroactive acceptance of $800,000 from Florida DEP Volkswagen Settlement funds to replace two Class 8 emergency response vehicles for MDFR. Forwarded 4-0. - 6A (Report 261407): Approved the Clerk’s summary of minutes for the July 13, 2026 Safety and Health Committee meeting. Approved 4-0. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during the reasonable opportunity to be heard. Chairman Gonzalez closed the public comment period after calling twice. Discussion Items - Special Presentation (Item 1E1): Chairman Gonzalez recognized Lorenzo Shadeed, a 12-year-old (turning 13) student at Miami Arts Studio 6-12 @ Zelda Glazer (MAS), who won third place statewide in the Florida League of Cities/Florida League of Mayors “If I Were Elected Mayor” essay contest. Lorenzo read his essay, which addressed traffic, flooding, and the high cost of living. Mayor Brown of Weston (President of the Florida League of Mayors) presented him with a $250 gift card, a joint resolution, and a county proclamation. Commissioners praised his insight and leadership. The committee also honored his birthday. - Agenda Setting: Chairman Gonzalez opened the meeting and called for a motion to set the agenda, which was approved. Commissioners added co-sponsors: Commissioner Lopez joined Item 3A; Chairman Gonzalez, Commissioner Lopez, and Commissioner Bastien joined Item 3C. No items were pulled for separate discussion. The committee then voted unanimously (4-0) to move the entire agenda as presented. Key Outcomes - All 12 agenda items (including the special presentation and minutes approval) were approved by the committee unanimously (4-0) and forwarded to the full Board of County Commissioners with a favorable recommendation. The committee adjourned without further business.

The Miami-Dade County Aviation and Seaport Committee met on September 8, 2026, with Chairwoman Danielle Cohen Higgins presiding and Vice Chairman Roberto J. Gonzalez and Commissioners Oliver G. Gilbert III, Keon Hardeman, and Natalie Milian Orbis present. The meeting opened with an invocation, the Pledge of Allegiance, and a public comment period in which no one spoke. The principal focus was an operational briefing on the September 6, 2026 crash of an Amazon Air cargo flight at Miami International Airport, followed by routine procurement approvals and reports. Consent Calendar - Resolution 261442 (Aviation Department): approved 5-0 and forwarded to the Board of County Commissioners (BCC) a contract with Premiere Design Solutions, Inc., Contract No. E25AV02, for professional services at Miami International Airport, maximum amount $2,696,852.32, for an eight-year term. - Resolution 261443 (Aviation Department): approved 5-0 and advanced to the October 6, 2026 BCC meeting a contract award for modifications to the North Terminal inline checked baggage inspection system, Project No. AB040A, to OEC-Paradise, JV, in an amount not to exceed $101,047,487.47; the advancement was requested to avoid delays tied to TSA installing 25 CTX machines. - Resolution 261463 (Strategic Procurement): approved 5-0 and forwarded to the BCC additional expenditure authority of $16,004,764.00, making the total modified cumulative amount for Contract No. X027A, Building Management System, $178,238,373.00. - Resolution 261483 (Strategic Procurement): this add-on, which would have authorized a non-competitive designated purchase for PropWorks System Software under Contract No. L-10159, with a two-year extension, a one-year renewal option, and expenditure authority of $420,091.00 for a total modified amount of $1,070,158.00, was withdrawn by the administration before the agenda was set; agenda notes show it withdrawn 3-0. - Item 261406 (Clerk of the Board): approved 5-0 the Clerk's summary of minutes for the July 13, 2026 Aviation and Seaport Committee meeting. - Items 261399 and 261400 (Mayor): received 5-0 the Aviation Department's Aviation Capital Program Reports for August and September 2026. Public Comments & Testimony - Chairwoman Cohen Higgins noted there were no public hearing items on the agenda and opened the reasonable opportunity for public comment; no speaker cards were submitted and no public testimony was given. Discussion: MIA Crash Briefing The committee heard a special briefing from the Miami International Airport Director on the September 6, 2026 crash of an Amazon Air Boeing 767 cargo aircraft, operated by 21 Air, on Runway 12/30 at about 2 p.m. The director reported 10 casualties: five deaths, three people transported in critical condition to Ryder Trauma, and the pilot and co-pilot treated at Jackson West and reportedly in good condition. There were more than 211 cancellations on Sunday and about 183 the following day. Two runways (12/30 and 8 Right) remained closed while the NTSB investigated; two runways (8 Left and 9/27) were operating, giving the airport about half capacity. The crash damaged roughly 370 linear feet of perimeter fence and struck a passenger van and a civilian vehicle outside the fence line. About 2,300 gallons of fuel were drained from the aircraft wings as evidence, environmental assessments began, and the flight data recorder was removed to Washington, D.C. The fire department was on scene in about 30 seconds with more than 60 units, well within the FAA's three-minute response requirement, and Commissioner Milian Orbis noted more than 200 emergency responders were on scene. The director said MIA passes annual FAA Part 319A safety inspections and all four runways have the required 1,000-foot runway safety area. He said FAA rules treat engineered material arresting systems (EMAS) as an alternative solution only for airports that cannot provide the 1,000-foot safety area, not as a complementary system, and that his research showed no U.S. airport with the 1,000-foot safety area has EMAS. He said the county would consider NTSB recommendations and would prepare a cost estimate. Commissioner Oliver G. Gilbert III said he wants MIA to pursue EMAS as a voluntary redundancy even if the NTSB does not recommend it, as long as the runway safety area is not reduced, because five lives were lost and going beyond federal minimums is justified. He also raised concern about public messaging after the crash, saying the County Mayor should be the public face of the county's response and calling for clear protocols. Commissioner Natalie Milian Orbis commended the first responders and asked the director to bring a future committee report on the cost and any runway modifications needed for EMAS. Commissioner Keon Hardeman cautioned that media coverage implied the airport was at fault, said MIA is safe, and asked whether EMAS could be a diminishing return or might not have prevented this accident. Vice Chairman Roberto J. Gonzalez supported exploring safety features beyond FAA requirements and praised the response. Chairwoman Cohen Higgins expressed condolences, agreed that the county should present a unified public front, and said the response involved many moving parts. A Deputy Mayor noted that the county charter already makes the Mayor the head of the county for emergency management and said an MOU could memorialize those protocols. Key Outcomes - The committee set the agenda with item 3D withdrawn and approved the remaining agenda 5-0; item 3B was advanced to the October 6, 2026 BCC meeting, and resolutions 3A and 3C were forwarded to the BCC with favorable recommendations. - The Clerk's minutes and both Aviation Capital Program Reports were approved or received unanimously. - The director agreed to prepare an EMAS cost and feasibility estimate for a future committee report, with the county open to adding EMAS as a redundancy if feasible. - Officials agreed to continue work on an MOU and emergency communications protocols to ensure a unified public response in future incidents. The meeting was adjourned after the committee found no further unfinished business.