Public Meetings - Miramar, Florida

On September 29, 2022, the Miramar City Commission held a Budget Public Hearing to adopt the Fiscal Year 2023 budget, millage rate, and capital improvement plan. The meeting included presentations from staff, public comment (none registered), and discussion among commissioners. All items were passed unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public registered to speak or participated in the hearing. Discussion Items - Millage Rate and Final Budget (Items 1 & 3): Rafael Sanmiguel, Management & Budget Director, presented the proposed FY2023 budget. The total proposed budget is $355 million, with a general fund of $202 million (57% of total). The millage rate is set at 7.1172 mills, a 9.59% increase over the rollback rate of 6.4943 mills. For an average homestead property, the taxable value increased by $7,500, resulting in an average tax increase of $53.13 per year ($4.42 per month). For average commercial property, the increase is $218. The budget maintains existing services with no millage rate increase, but rising property values generate additional revenue. The general fund increased by $15.5 million (8%) from FY2022, driven by rising personnel costs (collective bargaining, pensions, healthcare). Key new positions: police social worker, deputy police chief, marketing staff (4 positions), and a nursing scholarship pilot program of $100,000. Commissioner Davis inquired about the nursing scholarship, suggesting it be expanded to other disciplines. Commissioner Chambers, who proposed the scholarship, explained it targets low-income residents seeking LPN certification. The mayor offered a workshop to define the program's scope, and the commission agreed to allocate the $100,000 and discuss further. Commissioner Davis also raised questions about the police department's deputy chief position (funded as a new position) and marketing positions. The fire chief reported a 24-hour turnaround on fire permits and a $6.5 million SAFER grant to add 15 firefighters. The police chief reported that all vacancies are filled (228 officers) and recruitment is ongoing. - Capital Improvement Program (CIP) (Item 2): Assistant Director Barbara McClary and Stacy Balkeran presented the FY2023-2027 CIP, originally 87 projects totaling $190.9 million, amended to $192.1 million. The CIP includes park improvements (new pickleball courts, water park feature at Regional Park), street resurfacing ($1.05 million), LED streetlight upgrades, canal vegetation removal, town center enhancements, sidewalk projects, water utility improvements (well-field generator replacement, lift station upgrades), and IT projects (Wi-Fi in parks, smart city surveillance, audio-visual upgrades). Commissioner Chambers proposed adding two projects to the CIP: a bi-directional radio amplifier program for schools to improve SRO and public safety communications, and a buffer wall for the Miramar Parkway extension. Commissioners supported adding these to the CIP list for future planning, with discussion on funding and coordination with Broward County Schools. No formal vote was taken on the additions; the CIP resolution was approved as amended with the tentative budget changes. - Commission Secretaries COLA (Item 4): Commissioner Davis proposed a 5% cost-of-living adjustment for commission secretaries, increasing the maximum compensation from $85,490 to $89,765. The adjustment was approved. Key Outcomes - Item 1: Approved unanimously (5-0) – Ordinance O1796 establishing the ad valorem tax millage rate of 7.1172 mills for FY2023. - Item 2: Approved unanimously (5-0) – Resolution R7724 adopting the FY2023-2027 Capital Improvement Program as amended (87 projects, $192.1 million). - Item 3: Approved unanimously (5-0) – Ordinance O1795 adopting the final FY2023 operating and capital budget ($355 million total, $202 million general fund). - Item 4: Approved unanimously (5-0) – Resolution R7752 providing a 5% COLA for commission secretaries, increasing max compensation to $89,765. - Nursing Scholarship: The commission agreed to allocate $100,000 for scholarships and hold a workshop to define eligible disciplines and program details. - CIP Additions: Commissioner Chambers' proposals to add a bi-directional radio amplifier program for schools and a buffer wall for Miramar Parkway extension were discussed and supported by the commission for inclusion in the CIP planning list, though not formally voted on.

The Miramar City Commission met on September 22, 2022, at 7:00 PM. The meeting opened with a moment of silence and a passport awareness announcement. The Commission approved several proclamations, recognized police personnel during Hispanic Heritage Month, heard public comments, received a COVID-19 update, and unanimously approved a fee schedule for FY2023 and a conditional use application for a new Chipotle restaurant. All votes were 5-0. Proclamations - National Breast Cancer Awareness Month (October 2022): The Mayor proclaimed October 2022 as Breast Cancer Awareness Month and October 21 as Mammography Day. The proclamation noted that 1 in 8 women will develop invasive breast cancer. Representatives from Memorial Health Care System accepted the proclamation. - Suicide Prevention Awareness Month (September 2022): The Mayor proclaimed September 2022 as Suicide Prevention Month. The proclamation noted that more than 40,000 Americans die by suicide each year, with a Florida death every 2 hours on average; firearms are the leading method. Barbara Markley (co-chair, League of Women Voters of Broward Gun Safety Committee) accepted and highlighted the link between gun safety and suicide prevention. - Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15 – October 15, 2022): The Mayor proclaimed the month, noting that Miramar’s Hispanic population is 36%. Vice Mayor Colburn recognized Marisol Diegues, president of a Venezuelan humanitarian organization. Police Recognition – Hispanic Heritage Month State Representative Marie Woodson presented tributes to three Miramar Police Department members: Deputy Chief Jose Vargas (born in Puerto Rico), Officer Yesenia Diaz (first Hispanic female detective, Colombian heritage), and Mailyn Aguirre (department administrator, born in Nicaragua). All were honored for their service and dedication. Public Comments & Testimony - Alison Adams (Miramar Park Homeowners Group): Thanked community officers Renee Montserrat (Police) and Olga Perriut (Code Compliance) for their support, especially during National Night Out. No concerns were raised. - A second registrant (Bar Ali) was not connected; public comment was closed. COVID-19 and Emergency Management Update - Tim Roche (Fire Rescue Division Chief): Reported continued decreases in positivity and death rates in Florida and Broward County. No policy changes; Broward County still encourages face coverings indoors. School policies: students who test positive should isolate for 5 days. Flu season began; flu and COVID vaccines can be co-administered. The state COVID hotline is no longer monitored. Monkeypox threat is low and trending down. Hurricane season monitoring: storms Fausto, Gaston, and Invest 98 were not expected to impact the U.S. in the next 5 days. Consent Calendar - The consent agenda was approved unanimously. No items were pulled. Discussion Items - FY2023 Schedule of Fee Changes (Item 5): Winsome Freeman (Financial Services) presented proposed fee changes across nine departments, including a 10.6% increase in fire fees (CPI-based), 3% water/wastewater rate increase (average bill increase of $2.58 for 5,000-gallon consumption), and various parks and recreation fee changes. - Commissioner Davis queried employee gym fees; staff confirmed employees currently pay a 20% discount (not free, as previously thought). Commissioner Davis asked to review reinstating free gym access for employees. The City Manager agreed to look into it. - Commissioner Davis also asked about service-disabled veterans’ park entrance fees; staff noted veterans already receive free entry. Vice Mayor Colburn announced he is preparing a resolution to waive all park and recreation fees for veterans. - Commissioner Chambers asked about a state water assistance program; staff was unaware but Commissioner Chambers offered to share information. - Quasi-Judicial Hearing – Chipotle Restaurant (Item 7): Presented by Eric Silva (Planning and Zoning). The proposal was for a 2,500 sq. ft. Chipotle with a drive-thru (online order only) on an outparcel at the Monarch Town Center (northwest corner of Miramar Parkway and Flamingo Road). - Conditional use required because of drive-thru. Variance needed for front setback (proposed 103 ft. vs. max 50 ft.) due to utility easements. Community Appearance Board approved. - Commissioner Chambers asked about parking (28 spaces, meets code) and contingency for drive-thru backups. Applicant explained the “Chipotle Lane” model is used nationwide; no ordering at window, only pickup. - Commissioner Davis requested an update on the Monarch Town Center build-out; developer reported 80% of spaces are open. - Commission Reports: - Commissioner Chambers thanked State Rep. Woodson for the police recognitions and noted the retirement of Deputy Chief Randy Gonzalez. - Commissioner Davis reported on a community meeting at Sunset Lakes regarding traffic (Pembroke Road extension, speeding on 186th Avenue near schools). He raised concerns about the Western substation not being used for its original police purpose. City Manager and Police Chief responded: the fire department’s logistics is being moved to a new warehouse, after which the substation will be renovated (roof replacement needed) and then staffed with traffic, investigative, and community resource units. Commissioner Davis requested a comprehensive school traffic report. Key Outcomes - Proclamations: Unanimously approved. - Police Recognitions: Accepted. - Consent Agenda: Approved 5-0. - FY2023 Fee Schedule (Item 5): Motion to approve passed 5-0. Direction given to staff to review employee gym fees and veteran fee waiver. - Item 6 (unknown): Continued to November 22, 2022, by unanimous vote. - Chipotle Restaurant (Item 7): Five separate votes (conditional use, variance, site plan, Community Appearance Board, overall project) each passed 5-0. All approvals are subject to staff conditions. - Commission Reports: No formal votes; directives given to staff to report back on substation timeline and school traffic plan.

The City of Miramar, Florida, held a Fire Protection Assessment and Budget Public Hearing on Wednesday, September 14, 2022, at 6:00 PM in the Commission Chambers. The meeting addressed the proposed ad valorem tax millage rate, fire protection assessment, tentative budget for Fiscal Year 2023, and stormwater management service assessment. All items were approved unanimously by the commission, with second readings scheduled for September 29, 2022. Public Comments & Testimony - Tazia Hall (resident of 10453 SW 17th Court, Miramar) spoke on behalf of herself and her mother, Sonia Delshan, who have lived in the city for over 24 years. She expressed concern over rising property taxes, stating that their household's gross annual income in 2021 was $15,541, while the cost of living exceeded $26,688, leaving them in a deficit. She noted that property taxes had increased from $700 per year to $4,470 according to the latest TRIM notice, and that her 75-year-old mother had to withdraw from her 401(k) to meet the tax deadline. Hall urged the commission to set a budget based on what residents can actually afford, rather than forcing them to meet a tax bill under threat of a lien. Discussion Items - Millage Rate and Budget Presentation (Items 1, 2, 3): Management & Budget Director Rafael Sanmiguel presented the proposed FY2023 budget. Key points included: - The total budget for all funds is $233 million, with the general fund at $196 million. - The proposed millage rate is 7.1172 mills, which is 9.59% above the rolled-back rate of 6.4943 mills. This rate is unchanged from the prior year, but rising property values will increase tax bills. - The residential fire protection assessment fee remains at $398.23, with no increase. - The average homesteaded single-family home will see a tax increase of approximately $53.13 per year ($4.42 per month) due to property value increases capped at 3% under the Save Our Homes provision. - The average commercial property will see an increase of $218 per year. - 70% of general fund expenses are for salaries and benefits, with 52% of the general fund dedicated to public safety. - Staff noted that the city offers a residential hardship exemption for the fire fee, and encouraged residents to apply for county and state exemptions as well. - Commissioner Winston F. Barnes (not present in transcript, but referenced) and others acknowledged the public comment. Vice Mayor Yvette Colbourne raised priorities for customer service improvement, digitalization of documents, and using ARPA funds to increase the affordable housing trust. Commissioner Alexandra P. Davis expressed concerns about the sustainability of personnel costs, urged freezing positions when employees leave, and suggested hiring a dedicated grant-writing company. She also advocated for a cost-of-living adjustment for non-bargaining employees who did not receive increases last year. - Stormwater Management Assessment (Item 4): Public Works Director Tony Collins presented the FY2023 stormwater assessment resolution. The assessment rate remains unchanged at $120 per equivalent residential unit (ERU), with projected revenue of $6.66 million. Funds are used for operations, capital projects, and debt service. Commissioner Maxwell B. Chambers asked about expanding the embankment restoration program to properties west of University Drive, noting that the eastern program has completed 256 properties with about $400,000 remaining. The city manager was directed to bring an agenda item to address this. Mayor Wayne M. Messam inquired about the jurisdictional obligations of the South Broward Drainage District for canal embankment maintenance, and staff confirmed ongoing discussions with the district. Key Outcomes - Item 1: First Reading of Temporary Ordinance O1796 (Ad Valorem Tax Millage Rate) – Approved unanimously (5-0). The second reading is scheduled for September 29, 2022. - Item 2: Temporary Resolution R7707 (Fire Protection Assessment) – Approved unanimously (5-0). - Item 3: First Reading of Temporary Ordinance O1795 (Tentative FY2023 Budget and Capital Improvement Program) – Approved unanimously (5-0). The second reading is scheduled for September 29, 2022, at which the full tentative budget with all changes will be presented. - Item 4: Temporary Resolution R7708 (Stormwater Management Service Assessment) – Approved unanimously (5-0). - The meeting adjourned after the votes.

This special meeting was held on September 14, 2022, at 4:00 PM in the Commission Chambers to workshop the H.D. Perry Park Improvements project. The agenda consisted of a single discussion item. The workshop lasted approximately two hours, concluding around 6:05 PM. The project, originally budgeted at $2.1 million in 2019, now has a guaranteed maximum price (GMP) of $5.9 million from D. Stevenson Construction Inc., the top-ranked firm in an RFQ process for construction manager at risk (CMAR) delivery. The park is a key enabling project to relocate recreational uses from Wellman Field to allow for affordable housing development. Commissioners raised concerns about cost escalation, procurement transparency, piecemealing, and the overall master plan for the area. Discussion Items - Project Overview and Timeline: Staff (Liz Valera, Chief CIP Officer; Daryl Johnson, Support Services Director; Alicia Yoom, Procurement Director) presented the project history. A $2.1 million budget was allocated in September 2019 as part of the Miramar Innovation and Technology Village (MITV). A recreational license agreement with the school board was executed in April 2020. In November 2021, D. Stevenson submitted a GMP of $5,946,668. Because that exceeded the budget, a phasing plan was developed: Phase I ($2.1 million) – site prep, underground utilities, grading, and sod; Phase II (estimated at $3.2 million) – restroom/storage building, running track, hardscape, lighting; Phase III – table tennis, playground, and tennis courts. - Delivery Method – Construction Manager at Risk (CMAR): Staff explained that CMAR guarantees a maximum price, brings the contractor in early for pre-construction services (constructability review, value engineering), and is an open-book process. The city has used CMAR for the Public Safety Complex ($8.5M GMP) and Miramar Regional Park Amphitheater ($5.78M GMP). Pre-construction services for this project cost $56,767. Pros include reduced risk, cost control, and time savings; cons include potential ambiguity before GMP and liability for scope changes. - Cost Escalation Context: Daryl Johnson presented a chart showing construction cost increases – 14.1% average year-over-year since 2019. He cited Hollywood’s police headquarters budget rising from $50M to nearly $65M during design. He noted that construction prices continue to rise and that the original $2.1M estimate was reasonable in 2019. - Commissioner Concerns and Positions: - Vice Mayor Yvette Colbourne expressed that the commission was not informed early enough about the project’s true scale and cost. She questioned the procurement process and wanted to see the full master plan, not piecemeal phases. She noted that Phase I alone ($2.1M) would only yield a green field without restrooms, which she considered inadequate. She suggested testing the market with a conventional bid due to the tripling of costs. - Commissioner Maxwell B. Chambers echoed concerns about not being notified earlier. He strongly opposed phasing without knowing total cost. He stated the project cost has more than doubled (from $2.1M to $5.9M) and that the commission needs a clear, complete number before deciding. He proposed eliminating the tennis courts from the project to save money and time, keeping the existing courts at the Youth Enrichment Center (YEC). He wanted a complete park – field, track, restrooms – delivered turnkey. - Commissioner Alexandra P. Davis asked why the commission wasn’t informed earlier about D. Stevenson’s involvement, comparing it to the Siemens energy efficiency project. She raised concerns about the new school board members (five new members) who may not support the project. She suggested using $2.1 million from the MITV fund (which must be spent quickly to avoid IRS penalties) to help fund the park. She emphasized that affordable housing is the priority and that the technology village may need to be delayed. - Mayor Wayne M. Messam advocated for the park, stating the community expects a state-of-the-art facility as originally envisioned. He argued that construction cost increases are a reality due to COVID and inflation (citing home value increases of 40% since 2019). He stressed that the park is a necessary enabling project for affordable housing and that the commission must have the political will to fund it. He noted that the CMAR process is open book and transparent. He supported starting with Phase I to get infrastructure in place while seeking additional funding in future budgets. - Additional Discussion: - Staff clarified that the school board’s approval for the project was already granted, but an extension and phasing plan will be presented to the new board. Deputy City Manager Kelvin Baker confirmed that the park’s completion is required before the affordable housing project can proceed. - Commissioner Chambers reiterated that moving the tennis courts is tied to the technology village, which he believes should be located elsewhere for better accessibility. He stressed that residents do not want to lose their current fields without a fully completed replacement. - Vice Mayor Colbourne and Commissioner Davis supported using MITV funds for the park, with Vice Mayor noting that $2.2M is available for the park and $5M for the innovation hub; reprogramming $2.1M from the hub could fill the gap. - The affordable housing developer estimated total project cost at $15–16 million (up from $10–12 million), but the city is leasing the land, so construction costs are borne by the developer. Key Outcomes - No formal vote was taken, as this was a workshop. However, the commission provided clear direction to staff: - Staff to return with revised estimates for a complete park (field, track, restroom/storage building) without the tennis courts, including a new total cost and timeline. - Consider using a different contractor or delivery method if cost savings can be achieved (Commissioner Chambers suggested possibly a new contractor). - Explore reprogramming $2.1 million from the MITV innovation hub fund (Fund 391) to supplement the park budget, pending approval of the FY 2023-2027 CIP. - Engage with new school board members to ensure continued support for the project. - Bring back a comprehensive master plan for the area (park, affordable housing, technology village) so the board can see the full picture. - The workshop adjourned at approximately 6:05 PM, and the commission proceeded to a scheduled budget workshop.

The Miramar City Commission held a regular meeting on September 7, 2022, at 7:00 PM in the Commission Chambers. The meeting included proclamations, presentations on COVID-19 and radio signal challenges in schools, adoption of the consent agenda with several items discussed individually, approval of resolutions, and commissioner reports. No members of the public registered to speak or spoke during the meeting. Consent Calendar - Minutes from the Special and Regular Commission Meetings of August 17, 2022, were approved. - Temp. Reso. R7689 – Approved Contract Amendment 3 with Craven Thompson and Associates for construction management services on the Historic Miramar Areawide Drainage Improvement – Phase IV Project ($589,570). - Temp. Reso. R7698 – Authorized execution of the Byrne Justice Assistance Grant Memorandum of Understanding with the Broward Sheriff's Office for $27,771 in federal funds for DNA testing in cold cases. - Temp. Reso. R7701 – Approved the Interlocal Agreement with Broward County for Surtax-funded community bus shelter improvements (MIRA-020). - Temp. Reso. R7703 – Accepted a $329,293 Urban Area Security Initiative (UASI) grant and authorized the Memorandum of Agreement with the City of Miami. - Temp. Reso. R7704 – Approved $80,000 for emergency medical transport billing and collection services from Change Healthcare. - Temp. Reso. R7711 – Awarded the hauling and disposal of domestic waste sludge contract to Revinu Inc. (annual not-to-exceed $760,680, initial 2-year term with three 1-year renewal options). - Temp. Reso. R7700 – Approved a two-year extension of the benefits consulting services agreement with Gelin Benefits Group ($195,000/year). - Temp. Reso. R7718 – Ratified submission of a grant application to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection for a Comprehensive Vulnerability Assessment Study. - Temp. Reso. R7705 – Approved the second one-year renewal of the residential water/wastewater line program agreement with Service Line Warranties of America. - Temp. Reso. R7723 – Approved procurement of building division services from C.A.P. Government, Inc. by piggybacking Dania Beach’s agreement ($87,000 for FY2022, $150,000 for FY2023). - Temp. Reso. R7726 – Approved appointment of at-large member Frank Falco to the Police Pension Board (term ending 2025). - Temp. Reso. R7710 – Approved a watermain replacement agreement with OHLA USA along University Drive ($364,878 base + $100,000 allowance = $464,878) and waived further competitive bidding in the city’s best interest. - Temp. Reso. R7717 – Awarded the replacement of fire station bay doors (three stations) to Coast To Coast Garage Door, L.L.C. ($1,691,125 base + $48,875 contingency = $1,740,000). - Temp. Reso. R7729 – Approved the Comprehensive Pay Plan for unrepresented employees for FY2023 (October 1, 2022 – September 30, 2023), including 3% COLA, 2% merit increases, and raising the living wage from $12.50 to $14.02 to match Broward County. - Temp. Reso. R7731 – Adopted a resolution urging the Broward County School Board to increase funding for School Resource Officers (SROs) for every school in the county. All consent agenda items were approved unanimously (5-0) unless otherwise noted. Public Comments & Testimony No members of the public spoke or registered to speak during the meeting, either in person or virtually. Written comments submitted prior to the meeting were included in the record. Discussion Items - Radio Signal Challenges in Miramar Schools – Police Chief Leonard Burgess presented findings from an assessment of 20 Miramar-based public and charter schools. All schools experienced poor in-building radio signal penetration due to hardened construction materials. The solution – bi-directional amplifiers (BDAs) – is costly (e.g., $200,000+ per high school). Chief Burgess stated that enhancing communications is the financial responsibility of the Broward County School Board. Mayor Messam noted the issue had been raised with the Broward League of Cities and the School Board superintendent. Commissioner Chambers expressed frustration that prisoner amenities outweigh investment in children’s safety. - Historic Miramar Drainage Improvement – Phase IV (Item 2) – Public Works Director Anthony Collins explained the need for additional construction management services due to lessons learned from Phase III (e.g., phased approach to minimize disruption, incorporation of asbestos water pipe replacement). The $589,570 amendment includes minority participation (15% CBE, 5% local businesses). Vice Mayor Colbourne questioned cost increases; staff clarified the initial contract envisioned part-time inspection (2 days/week) but full-time oversight (5 days/week) is now required. Commissioner Davis commended the project for laying infrastructure for the historic area’s revitalization and alleviating flooding. - Community Bus Shelter Improvements (Item 4) – Assistant City Engineer Leah deRiel presented the design portion of the project, which will install 13 bus shelters primarily along community bus routes. Commissioner Davis raised equity concerns, noting no shelters east of University Drive in the 33023 zip code (the poorest in Broward County). City Manager assured the list can be revised. Commissioner Barnes asked about design flaws (poor rain/sun protection) and vagrancy issues. Vice Mayor Colbourne requested a comprehensive view of routes and existing shelters. Commissioner Chambers asked for consideration of the Mission Lane corridor, where a resident reported children waiting in the rain. Staff noted that the county is planning a shelter there. - Building Division Services (Item 11) – Building, Planning and Zoning Director Eric Silva presented the agreement with C.A.P. Government, Inc. to augment inspection and permitting services. The city’s building department is overwhelmed by growth. Commissioner Davis called for a department-wide needs assessment and a “secret shopper” program to evaluate customer service. Commissioner Chambers suggested a behind-the-scenes meeting with administration and staff to address complaints. The item was approved 5-0. - Comprehensive Pay Plan (Item 15) – HR Director Randy Cross outlined the FY2023 plan, including a 3% COLA, 2% merit raises, increased tuition reimbursement rates, and a higher living wage ($14.02/hr). Vice Mayor Colbourne noted the living wage increase was a priority she introduced years ago, and praised the step to match Broward County. Approved 5-0. - SRO Funding Resolution (Item 16) – Mayor Messam presented a resolution urging the Broward County School Board to increase funding for School Resource Officers. The city currently funds the program and receives 75% reimbursement from the school board, leaving the city to cover 25% of salaries plus vehicles, uniforms, and training. The resolution asks for full funding. Commissioner Davis asked for clarification on cost-sharing history; Police Chief Burgess stated the city’s program cost $1.546 million in 2021-2022, with 25% coming from general fund taxpayers. The resolution passed 5-0. Key Outcomes - Approved all consent agenda items and resolutions (all 5-0 votes). - Directed staff to revisit bus shelter locations to ensure geographic equity, particularly east of University Drive. - Directed City Manager to arrange an assessment of building department operations and customer service across departments. - Directed staff to explore assistance options for Foxcroft homeowners facing soaring HOA fees due to insurance rule changes (Commissioner Davis’s request). - Continued advocacy with the Broward County School Board on radio signal improvements in schools and full SRO funding. - Announced upcoming events: Miramar Latin Music Festival (September 17), Sickle Cell Walk (September 10). - Adjourned the meeting. The next regular meeting is scheduled for Thursday, September 22, 2022, at 7:00 PM.

The City of Miramar City Commission held its regular meeting on Wednesday, August 17, 2022, at 7:00 PM in the Commission Chambers. The meeting included proclamations, presentations, a consent agenda, resolutions, public hearings, and other business. Key topics included the Broward County Property Appraiser's report on rising property values, a COVID-19 update, infrastructure contracts, and a deferred discussion on the Perry Middle School park project. Proclamations - India Independence Day & India Heritage Month: Proclaimed by Mayor Messam on behalf of Vice Mayor Colbourne, recognizing the 75th anniversary of India's independence. Jean Currion, President of the South Florida Asian Caucus, accepted. - Jamaica Independence Day & Heritage Month: Proclaimed for Jamaica's 60th independence anniversary. Pastor Earl Richards of Miracles Through Prayers and Faith Church accepted. - Women's Equality Day: Proclaimed for August 26th, presented to Lynn Nazario, senior HR generalist overseeing the RBG Commission on the Status of Women. Presentations - Broward County Property Appraiser Marty Kiar: Presented on property values, exemptions, and the Owner Alert fraud protection program. Key statistics: Miramar's market value rose 17.84% to $19.5 billion; taxable value increased 11.5% to $12.585 billion; average single-family home sale price in 2022 is $602,099 (up from $522,752 in 2021); average condo sale price $274,000 (up from $238,000). If the city keeps its millage rate (7.1172), it would collect an additional $9.237 million in property taxes. Miramar has 26,882 homestead exemptions, 921 low-income seniors, and 238 long-term seniors. The office will hold an outreach event at City Hall on September 12, 2022 from 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM. - AT&T Check Presentation: Rashad D. Thomas presented a check to Honey Shine After School Program for Girls, accepted by CEO Tina Brown. - COVID-19 and Emergency Management Update: Firefighter Tara Smith reported decreases in cases and positivity rates; booster vaccinations up; 15,000 additional children (age 6 months–5 years) vaccinated in last six weeks; new UK-approved booster expected in fall; CDC guidelines updated (no longer requiring social distancing or contact tracing for general public, revised isolation/quarantine rules). Also noted 12,000+ monkeypox cases nationwide, 1,200+ in Florida; no widespread vaccination recommendation; polio cases found in New York sewage but none reported in South Florida. Consent Agenda All items approved unanimously with no discussion: 1. Minutes of July 6, 2022 and Budget Workshop June 29, 2022. 2. Purchase of Microsoft Azure Cloud Services from SHI International Corp., not-to-exceed $166,000 (total $240,999). 3. Renewal of Cisco DUO multi-factor authentication licenses, not-to-exceed $99,892. 4. (Item pulled). 5. Second renewal of grounds maintenance services with Brightview Landscape Services, Inc., not-to-exceed $371,200. 6. Second renewal of landscaping/irrigation/litter control services with DynaServ, not-to-exceed $260,553. 7. First Amendment to Recreation License Agreement with School Board of Broward County for Henry D. Perry Education Center open space. 8. Ratification of additional roadway resurfacing services for SW 148th Avenue from General Asphalt Co., $95,227. 9. Local Agency Program Agreement with FDOT for Miramar Complete Streets Phase III design. 10. Purchase of Workiva Consulting and Setup Services from Insight Public Sector, $74,840 (total $125,000). Public Participation - Tracy Samuels (address in Pembroke Pines): Thanked the commission for a park bench donated in memory of her husband, former Code Compliance Supervisor J. Samuels, and asked about a street naming. Mayor advised the process is under Commissioner Chambers' purview. - Arthur Marshall (2131 Acapulco Drive, Miramar): Raised concerns about speeding on his street, requesting traffic calming measures. Mayor directed City Manager to coordinate with Police and Engineering to meet with Mr. Marshall. Resolutions & Discussion Items - Item 11 – Board Appointments: Approved appointments: Affordable Housing Advisory Committee – Police Major Florinette Dorce (at-large essential service personnel); Commissioner Chambers appointed Carlester Gordon; Vice Mayor Colbourne appointed Ed Hill. Teen Advisory Board – Shania Grace (grade 9) and Jalen Cyril (grade 11). Unanimous. - Item 12 – Award of IFB 22-012 (Milling & Resurfacing, Sidewalk ADA Upgrades, Drainage): Awarded to Weekley Asphalt Paving, Inc., bid amount $1,296,053, plus 20% construction allowance ($259,211) for total project cost $1,555,264. Unanimous. - Item 13 – Historic Miramar Innovation and Technology Village – Perry Middle School Park Phase I: Proposed award to D. Stephenson Construction, Inc., for Construction Manager at Risk services, Phase I GMP not-to-exceed $2,100,000 plus $100,000 contingency (total $2,200,000). Discussion revealed that the original project budget was $2.1 million pre-pandemic, but the full project cost (including future phases) is now estimated at $5.9 million due to escalating construction costs. Commissioners Chambers, Davis, and Vice Mayor Colbourne expressed concerns over cost overruns, procurement process, and impact on the community. Commissioner Barnes suggested considering duplication of existing facilities. Mayor Messam explained the CMAR delivery method. The item was continued to the September 22, 2022 meeting for a workshop to further review costs, phasing, and funding sources. Unanimous vote to defer. - Item 14 – First Reading of Ordinance O1794 (Short-Term Rentals): Staff recommended continuance; motion to continue to September 22, 2022 approved unanimously. - Item 15 – Second Reading of Ordinance O1792 (FY2022 Budget Amendment): Approved with reprogramming of funds (e.g., $20,652 from completed Lakeshore Park and Fire Rescue projects to Amphitheater project; $13,074 from Harbor Lakes to Island Park improvements; $3 million from fund balance for Historic Miramar Drainage Phase IV). Unanimous. - Item 16 – Award of IFB 22-008 (Historic Miramar Infrastructure Improvements Phase IV): Awarded to Man Con, Inc., revised bid amount $12,709,741, plus 15% contingency ($1,906,461) for total $14,616,202. Funding sources include state revolving loan, grants, and fund balance. Discussion noted lessons learned from previous phases; contractor will use sequential phasing to minimize disruption. Unanimous. - Item 17 – CDBG Action Plan Amendment: Reallocated $250,000 from residential to commercial rehabilitation program (increasing commercial to $350,000; residential reduced from $670,000 to $420,000). Staff noted the waiting list for home repairs has 61 applicants; new applications open in October. Unanimous. - Item 18 – Additional CDBG Funding for Tower Shops Phase II: Added $100,000 to match property owner's contribution, bringing total city funding to $340,000 for a 50-50 split on $675,000 construction cost. Unanimous. - Item 19 – Commission Report: Retirement System for Elected Officials: Commissioner Chambers sponsored a resolution to direct the city attorney to prepare an ordinance establishing a retirement system for elected officials serving at least 8 years. After discussion, the resolution was amended (via motion by Commissioner Davis, seconded by Commissioner Chambers) to instead direct the City Manager and City Attorney to prepare a memorandum analyzing options for an alternative retirement system compared to the current FRS system. The amendment passed 4-1 (Mayor Messam dissenting). The amended resolution then carried. Commission Reports - Commissioner Barnes: Thanked staff for Citizenship Drive (140+ applicants processed); noted personal participation in Jamaica's 1962 independence ceremony. - Commissioner Davis: Commended relocation of homeless couple near her area; praised lighting of water tower for Jamaican independence; raised concerns about lack of bus benches and wayfinding signs on Pembroke Road; requested improved security for online utility payments (username/password requirement). - Vice Mayor Colbourne: Announced upcoming MPO project solicitation; invited resident input. - Mayor Messam: Thanked staff for tree trimming and security issues; acknowledged support for Jamaica 60 event; recognized his election as President of the Florida League of Mayors. City Manager Report - Noted installation of cell phone signal boosters in City Hall parking garage (all three floors) at no cost; working on getting other carriers. Mayor raised concern about police radio signal issues in school buildings, directing Police Chief to coordinate with Broward Sheriff's Association. Attorney Reports - Announced two closed attorney-client sessions scheduled for September 7, 2022 at 6:15 PM and 6:30 PM regarding pending litigation: Bodden v. City of Miramar and Redondo v. City of Miramar et al. - Introduced new associate attorney Jordan Gary, assigned to Miramar. Adjournment Meeting adjourned at approximately [time not specified in transcript].