City Commission Recap (3/28/2023)

Ariel Fernandez

Founder & Editor
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Below is a copy of the Commission Digest for this Commission meeting with the brief explanations of discussion taken and/or final votes cast by the Commission on March 28th.

Discussion/explanation can be found in blue. If opening on a smartphone, turn your phone horizontally to avoid having to scroll right to see how all members of the Commission voted on each item.

Non-credited quotes in this article are excerpts from the memos presented to the Commission explaining the items.

Public Comments

Compensation Study: Resident Maria C. Cruz spoke about the disparity in salaries shown by the recent compensation study. She explained the staff at the lower end of the scale should see a higher increase.

Police Morale: Christopher Challenger, President of the Fraternal Order of Police. Challenger spoke about the changes in the workout policies abruptly cancelled by the department. He explained it has affected morale. He stated that policies for calling out sick now have supervisors going to check if officers are home. Challenger added that officers who have applied to Miami-Dade County Police Department have had their applications halted by the Coral Gables Police Department. He also added that there are issues with the ability to rise through the ranks, as retired personnel are being brought back or hired from other departments and taking up positions of in-house officers.

The Chief confirmed that he had changed the workout policy. He accused the Union of telling the officers to leave to other jurisdictions. He also confirmed he had a meeting with Miami-Dade Police where he asked that they “not decimate our jurisdiction.” Lago accused the Union of using this to intimidate the members of the Commission regarding the upcoming negotiations. Hudak claimed there was no one eligible to be promoted. Lago again accused the Union of launching attacks on him by paying blogs and Billy Corben. He then made a motion to vote for confidence of the Chief.

Mayor
Vince Lago
Vice Mayor
Michael Mena
Commissioner
Rhonda Anderson
Commissioner
Jim Cason
Commissioner
Kirk R. Menendez
MotionedSeconded

Losing Police Officers: Jackson Rip Holmes spoke in support of the Union President and asked that the Commission remember that its priority is to the safety of residents and that is accomplished by keeping our officers.

Biltmore Way: Jessica Keller asked for an update regarding her public records request on the Biltmore Way Bike paths.

First Female Commissioner: Karelia Martinez Carbonell, President of the Historic Preservation Association of Coral Gables, spoke about Lucille Neher’s term as the first woman City Commissioner. Click here to read her story.

Mayor’s Comments

C-1: Update regarding landscaping in Kings Bay.

Deena Bell-Llewellyn, Assistant Director of Public Works for Greenspace Management, presented to the Commission. She showed explained that the cost of the project would be between $300,000 and $400,00. Residents have voiced their concerns with the chain-link fence and its barbed wire on top. The Commission asked staff to potentially arrange a meeting with the neighboring USDA and Palmetto Bay, in order to find a solution.

C-2: Update from staff regarding security camera installations in North Gables.

The City has placed cameras in three locations to monitor resident’s trash pits. They are motion recorded cameras. Staff stated that the cameras have been unable to catch any incidents.

C-3: Update regarding parking and food delivery scooters.

C-4: Update on EV Charging Infrastructure, Electronic Billboards and Interactive Kiosks.

The City Manager stated that staff is looking into alternatives and will have a recommendation soon.

C-5: Update regarding the street signs in the Downtown Area.

All Trolley stops have been updated with new signs and residential parking, as well as municipal parking signs, will also be replaced or repainted. The Commission voted to replace signs in downtown that are faded or rusted, with the Central Business District first, then branch out. Total cost is about $400,000.

Resident Maria C. Cruz asked that the focus not only be in downtown, but also in residential streets.

Mayor
Vince Lago
Vice Mayor
Michael Mena
Commissioner
Rhonda Anderson
Commissioner
Jim Cason
Commissioner
Kirk R. Menendez
MotionedSeconded

C-6: Discussion regarding a cut through on San Sebastian.

Staff intends to block the cut through with planting, to ensure people do not drive on the sidewalk as a cut-through.

C-7: Discussion regarding board expansion to allow for a new board to be composed of City HOA’s.

The idea was to have a board made up of HOAs, but the concern of the Commissions was the restrictions the Sunshine Law could place on them, as well as which HOAs would be allowed, as there are many. The item will be brought back for further discussion.

Consent Agenda

E-1: A Resolution of the City Commission authorizing the donation of a 1998 Pierce ladder truck, a designated surplus item, to the Fire Department of Cartagena de Indias, Colombia, on behalf of the City of Coral Gables Sister Cities Program.

“On behalf of the Coral Gables Sister Cities Program, the City of Coral Gables wishes to donate 1998 Pierce ladder truck, a designated surplus item, to the fire department of Cartagena de Indias, Colombia. The 1998 Pierce “Tele Squirt” 75ft Ladder truck, VIN: 4P1CT02S9WA000687, 85,206 miles, was custom built per the City’s specifications and needs. Officials from Cartagena de Indias will be responsible for the transportation logistics and repairs that are needed.”

Mayor
Vince Lago
Vice Mayor
Michael Mena
Commissioner
Rhonda Anderson
Commissioner
Jim Cason
Commissioner
Kirk R. Menendez
MotionedSeconded

E-2: A Resolution of the City Commission authorizing the donation of three MSA ALTAIR 5X Multigas Detectors to Villa Elisa, Paraguay.

“The Consulate of Paraguay, which recently relocated from Downtown Miami to Coral Gables, has requested used/decommissioned fire equipment. The fire departments in Paraguay are staffed by a volunteer firefighter force, it is one of the most respected agencies in the country for the dedication of its firefighters. The Coral Gables Fire Department has three gas detectors with four testing stations, four truck chargers, two detection wands and gas cylinders available for donation. The equipment was retired in 2020. The equipment can detect combustible gases in LEL and/or volume percentage range, oxygen, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, hydrogen sulfide, sulfur dioxide, ammonia, chlorine, VOCs, and many others depending upon sensor configuration. Transportation of the equipment to Villa Elisa is the responsibility of the Consulate of Paraguay. The value of the equipment is approximately $4,000. The Fire Department has replaced gas detector units with new equipment.”

Mayor
Vince Lago
Vice Mayor
Michael Mena
Commissioner
Rhonda Anderson
Commissioner
Jim Cason
Commissioner
Kirk R. Menendez
SecondedMotioned

E-3: A Resolution of the City Commission approving an extension to the submission deadline of the University of Miami’s Campus Art Master Plan.

“Article 9, Section 3-2103.C.4 of the Zoning Code states that construction projects at an accredited college and/or university that maintains at its campus a publicly accessible permanent collection of art of at least thirty (30) sculptures and/or other Public Art in accordance with a Campus Art Master Plan is exempt from paying into the (Art Acquisition) Fund. The section further states that a report of the Campus Art Master Plan, demonstrating changes to the collection of Public Art on the campus shall be made to the City Commission in December 2010, and every third year thereafter. December 2022 is the third year after the last Campus Art Master Plan was submitted for 2019. Due to construction on campus, the past years have seen the movement, storage, and relocation of sculptures throughout the campus. The program is stabilized and preparing an updated brochure. An extension is respectfully requested for submission within the second quarter of 2023.”

Mayor
Vince Lago
Vice Mayor
Michael Mena
Commissioner
Rhonda Anderson
Commissioner
Jim Cason
Commissioner
Kirk R. Menendez
MotionedSeconded

E-4: A Resolution of the City Commission confirming the election of Sureya Serret, who ran unopposed for the City of Coral Gables Retirement Board Participating Regular Full-time (General/Teamster) Employee Representative seat to fill the remainder of an unexpired term which began January 1, 2023 through December 31, 2024.

Mayor
Vince Lago
Vice Mayor
Michael Mena
Commissioner
Rhonda Anderson
Commissioner
Jim Cason
Commissioner
Kirk R. Menendez
MotionedSeconded

E-5: A Resolution of the City Commission accepting a recommendation of the City Manager to waive the competitive process of the Procurement Code for the purchase of a Wet Well Coating for PS-A Pump Station from C&I Construction & Design as a “Sole Source Procurement”, pursuant to Section 2-689 of the City’s Procurement Code.

“The Wet Well at Pump Station A, located at 1590 Campamento Avenue, requires some critically needed maintenance that includes replacement of the existing protective coating that has reached the end of its useful life due to damages caused by sewage gases. Additionally, Miami-Dade Water & Sewer Department requires that all interior concrete surfaces of any wet well be coated with the PPC Coating System WW-200-1a/Damp Concrete, as manufactured by Polymorphic Polymers Corporation or approved equal. PPC Coatings is the only producer and seller of Polymorphic Polymers Coatings and C&I Construction and Design is South Florida’s sole certified applicator for this product. The rehabilitation cost for this work is estimated at $63,950 and Public Works is seeking approval for this amount or an amount not to exceed the available budget. Under Section 2-689 of the Procurement Code, entitled “Sole Source Procurement,” an award may be made without competitive bids when there is only one source available to fulfill the needs of the City.”

Mayor
Vince Lago
Vice Mayor
Michael Mena
Commissioner
Rhonda Anderson
Commissioner
Jim Cason
Commissioner
Kirk R. Menendez
MotionedSeconded

E-6: A Resolution of the City Commission approving the “El Carnaval de Barranquilla USA” event as one of five events of the International Cultural Events Initiative.

“The International Cultural Events Initiative is a program focused on bringing five high-quality, international, and culturally enriching events to Coral Gables with the purpose of learning and experiencing the culture and ethnicity of other countries for the benefit of residents, businesses, and visitors. “El Carnaval de Barranquilla” is one of Colombia’s most important folkloric celebrations, and one of the biggest carnavals in the world. The carnaval has traditions that date back to the 19th century. Four days before Holy Week, Barranquilla receives national and foreign tourists and joins together four days of intense festivities. During the carnaval, Barranquilla’s normal activities are put aside as the city gets busy with street dances, musical and masquerade parades. The “El Carnaval de Barranquilla USA” parade hosted by the Consulate General of Colombia, is expected to take place on Saturday, April 22, 2023, from 1:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. beginning on Aragon Avenue and finishing at the Fred B. Hartnett/Ponce Circle Park. This request has been reviewed by the City’s Special Events Committee and qualifies for this International Cultural Events Initiative program based on the established criteria. The City of Coral Gables will provide in-kind contributions, as specified in the criteria attached, not to exceed the amount of $20,000. City expenses incurred over this amount will be the responsibility of the event sponsor.”

Mayor
Vince Lago
Vice Mayor
Michael Mena
Commissioner
Rhonda Anderson
Commissioner
Jim Cason
Commissioner
Kirk R. Menendez
MotionedSeconded

E-7: A Resolution of the City Commission approving a corporate relocation plan for a company referred to as “Project Bell” and authorizing the City Manager to execute an agreement between the City of Coral Gables and “Project Bell.”

“A company being referred to as “Project Bell” is an existing global logistics company seeking to relocate approximately 40,000SF of office space within Miami-Dade County. Coral Gables is a finalist for the location of the company’s headquarters. The company would bring 125 existing jobs to Coral Gables and would have a positive citywide impact with the creation of indirect employment. The company expressed a need for streamlined permitting and additional parking. Based on the capital investment being proposed and the number of employees that would be working from Coral Gables, Project Bell qualifies for the Permitting Assistance Program (PAP). The PAP is an economic development initiative created by the City of Coral Gables and the Coral Gables Chamber of Commerce that expedites plans review and permitting for companies making a significant investment in Coral Gables. Project Bell needs approximately 25 additional parking spaces. The City has sufficient inventory in garages to accommodate this request. The City has offered a 20-percent discount on the current garage permit parking fee for a two-year period. The value of the discount is approximately $6,000 per year. The term would begin when the company obtains its Certificate of Occupancy. Additionally, the City has secured the commitment of Miami-Dade County through its collaboration with the Beacon Council to offer Project Bell a Concierge Plan Review service which expedites the issuance of a permit for large commercial projects.”

Resident Maria C. Cruz said she had concerns with the expediting of the permits for this project. She said everyone’s permits should be expedited.

Mayor
Vince Lago
Vice Mayor
Michael Mena
Commissioner
Rhonda Anderson
Commissioner
Jim Cason
Commissioner
Kirk R. Menendez
MotionedSeconded

Presentation of Boards and/or Committees draft/final minutes requesting action from the City Commission

2-1: A Resolution of the Historic Preservation Board of Coral Gables, Florida, recommending opposition to Senate Bill 1346/House Bill 1317 as written and strongly encouraging the City to protect its existing historic fabric.

“Proposed Bill SB1346/HB1317, which is currently filed for the 2023 legislative session; classifies any structure not meeting the “FEMA new construction requirements” as “nonconforming” if located in a coastal high-hazard area. The Bill preempts local municipalities from regulating the demolition of “nonconforming” structures or structures condemned by the building official. The Bill also restricts redevelopment prohibitions on condemned/demolished buildings and prohibits requiring the replication of a demolished structure, or the limitation on the size or height of the replacement structure, or the maintenance of any of the demolished structure’s elements. The Bill applies to all nonconforming structures in coastal high-hazard areas which fail to meet FEMA standards for new construction; any structure determined to be unsafe by a local building official; and any structure ordered to be demolished by a local government that has proper jurisdiction unless the structure is individually listed in the National Register of Historic Places or is a single-family home. The Bill, as proposed, does not adequately protect locally designated historic sites or sites located within local historic districts.”

Mayor
Vince Lago
Vice Mayor
Michael Mena
Commissioner
Rhonda Anderson
Commissioner
Jim Cason
Commissioner
Kirk R. Menendez
MotionedSeconded

Ordinances On Second Reading

F-1: An Ordinance of the City Commission amending Chapter 54 – “Solid Waste” to prohibit placing clean yard waste in trash bags and depositing trash bags in trash piles before 6:00 p.m.; providing for severability clause, repealer provision, codification, and providing for an effective date. (Sponsored by Mayor Lago).

“The City of Coral Gables wishes to improve the general cleanliness of the City and to ensure the safety of its citizens and visitors. As an environmental leader among local governments in the State of Florida, a goal of the City is to facilitate the proper disposal of clean yard waste and appropriate recycling of materials such as cardboard. The City Commission desires to eliminate the placement of clean yard waste into trash bags, which is not only aesthetically unpleasing but poses a safety risk to the City’s sanitation works, to reduce the proliferation of trash bags throughout trash piles in the City. Approved on first reading on March 14, 2023.”

Resident Maria C. Cruz brought up the fact that bags are currently allowed, yet residents are have been fined since January, while the Code allows it. The City Attorney, Gus Ceballos, stated that he believes the fines are related to the time of the fines. Lago stated that it is clear that there is no nefarious doings by the City and it is just one person looking to ridicule the Commission.

Mayor
Vince Lago
Vice Mayor
Michael Mena
Commissioner
Rhonda Anderson
Commissioner
Jim Cason
Commissioner
Kirk R. Menendez
MotionedSeconded

F-2: An Ordinance of the City Commission amending Chapter 74 – Traffic and Vehicles, Article I – In General, Section 74-1 “Definition” and 74-2 “Prohibiting Skateboard Use Generally” in order to prohibit the use of other wheeled conveyances where posted; providing for repealer provision, codification, severabilty clause, and providing for an effective date; (Sponsored by Commissioner Cason).

“Section 74-2 of the City Code currently prohibits the use of skateboards on sidewalks where posted. Various other code provisions address the use of motorized scooters, mopeds, bicycles, electric personal assistive mobility devices. Pedestrian safety, especially in congested downtown sidewalks is and has been a priority of the City Commission and the City wishes to amend the code to anticipate technological advances and potential safety concerns. With this ordinance the City Commission wishes to update the City Code so that other new innovative conveyances are treated similarly as skateboards in the City Code. This item was approved on first reading during the March 14, 2023 City Commission meeting. There have been no changes since first reading.”

Resident Maria C. Cruz asked that it not be limited to downtown alone, but incorporated throughout the City.

Mayor
Vince Lago
Vice Mayor
Michael Mena
Commissioner
Rhonda Anderson
Commissioner
Jim Cason
Commissioner
Kirk R. Menendez
MotionedSeconded

F-3: An Ordinance of the City Commission authorizing the City to enter into a Third Amendment to the Second Amended and Restated Master Lease Agreement for the property commonly known as the Village of Merrick Park, with Merrick Park, LLC, f /k/a Rouse Coral Gables, LLC, amending Section 3.1 relating to parking to clarify that the License Agreement may require consent of additional parties; providing for a repealer provision, severability clause, and providing for an effective date. (Lobbyist N/A).

“The City of Coral Gables (the “Landlord”) and Merrick Park LLC, f/k/a Rouse Coral Gables, LLC (the “Developer/Tenant”) entered into a Second Amended and Restated Master Lease Agreement (the “Lease”) for the property commonly known as the Merrick Shops dated July 10, 1997, as amended by that certain First Amendment to Second Amended and Restated Master Lease Agreement dated June 4, 2003, and that certain Second Amendment to Second Amended and Restated Master Lease Agreement dated January 19, 2023 (collectively, the “Lease”). In the January 19, 2023- Second Amendment to Second Amended and Restated Master Lease Agreement provided that if a request was made by a Licensee for exclusive use of parking spaces, the Developer/Tenant would, in good faith, seek the approval of the anchor tenants under the Construction, Operation, Reciprocal Easement Agreement (COREA) should exclusivity of certain parking spaces be requested. However, the Developer/Tenant wishes to further Amend the Lease to reflect that pursuant to the COREA, the Developer/Tenant will also make good-faith requests and seek the approval of each Subtenant whose consent may be required under its Sublease for their consents to such exclusive use and, if such consents are obtained, the License Agreement will include such provisions.”

Mayor
Vince Lago
Vice Mayor
Michael Mena
Commissioner
Rhonda Anderson
Commissioner
Jim Cason
Commissioner
Kirk R. Menendez
SecondedMotioned

Ordinances On First Reading

F-4: An Ordinance of the City Commission providing for a Text Amendment to the City of Coral Gables Official Zoning Code by amending Article 10, “Parking and Access,” Section 10- 110, “Amount of Required Parking,” adding parking exemption for newly enclosed roof deck on existing office buildings built as of February 9, 2021, and providing for severability clause, repealer provision, codification, and providing for an effective date. (03 08 23 PZB recommended approval, Vote 4-0) (Sponsored by Commissioner Menendez).

“As requested by a Commissioner, Staff has prepared a Zoning Code text amendment to propose a parking exemption for office building alterations when enclosing an existing rooftop amenity. The minimum parking requirement for office use is calculated at a rate of 1 parking space per 300 square feet of enclosed office space. If portions of the office use are unenclosed – such as a rooftop amenity – additional parking is not triggered and therefore not required. However, when an office building requests to enclose their amenity space at the roof, then additional parking is required to be provided, even if the use and impact of the amenity space remains the same. The Zoning Code is silent whether an office building that has an existing occupied roof deck being used as an amenity may enclose the occupied roof deck without requiring additional off-street parking. Therefore, the Planning Staff has drafted a Zoning Code text amendment to exempt additional parking for newly enclosed roof decks on office buildings as of February 9, 2021, (the adoption date of the Zoning Code Update), if the space is being used as an amenity only to the office. As drafted, the enclosure of the rooftop office amenity only exempts the additional parking. The maximum building height and maximum Floor Area Ratio (FAR) requirements would still apply. The draft Ordinance for the Zoning Code text amendment is provided as Exhibit A.”

Commissioner Anderson was concerned about enforcement. She explained she would work with staff to ensure that inspection is allowed for the “enclosed space” to prevent additional rental space. She said she would be against it this time, but would like it added by second reading for her to support it.

Mayor
Vince Lago
Vice Mayor
Michael Mena
Commissioner
Rhonda Anderson
Commissioner
Jim Cason
Commissioner
Kirk R. Menendez
SecondedMotioned

F-5: An Ordinance of the City Commission amending Section 62-151 Alleys, Swale Areas and Rights-of-Way to be Kept Clean and Mowed” in order to provide for a mechanism for the City to provide the required deep cleaning in commercial areas and lien the property for the cost of deep cleaning when a property owner fails to do so after notification; providing for repealer provision, codification, and providing for an effective date. (Sponsored by Mayor Lago).

“Section 62-151 requires that, in commercial areas of the city, properties and their surrounding areas including abutting sidewalks, alleys up to and including the median point of the alley, curbs, parking lanes where they exist, or rights-of-way up to the edge of pavement of any public street, must be deep cleaned at least every six months or more frequently as conditions may necessitate. Should property owners in those commercial areas fail to complete the required deep cleaning as outlined in Section 62-151, the City wishes to have a mechanism by which the City, or its contractor, can complete the required work and recover the costs from the property owner.”

Businesses will have five business days to get the work done, once a notice has been issued. If not the City would come in and do the work and charge the business for doing it. The City will offer an option for an extension. The Commission will be provided with the notice prior to the second vote.

Mayor
Vince Lago
Vice Mayor
Michael Mena
Commissioner
Rhonda Anderson
Commissioner
Jim Cason
Commissioner
Kirk R. Menendez
SecondedMotioned

Resolutions

F-6: A Resolution of the City Commission approving the Final Plat entitled “Gables Village” pursuant to Zoning Code Article 14, Section 14-210, “Platting/Subdivision,” being a re-plat of 113,310 square feet (2.6 acres) into three (3) tracts of land on the property legally described as Lots 1 through 22, Block 28, “Coral Gables Biltmore Section” (504, 516, 522, 530, and 536 Malaga; 503, 511, 515, 535, 529, 525, and 521 Santander; and 3109 Segovia), Coral Gables, Florida; including required conditions; providing for a repealer provision, severability clause, and providing for an effective date. (Lobbyist: Mario Garcia-Serra).

“On December 7, 2021, the City Commission approved a planned area development known as Gables Village, a multi-family village of 4 duplex units, 16 townhouses, 4 lofts, and 24 flats. The approved project is located on the entire block bounded by Malaga (north), Hernando (east), Santander (south), and Segovia (west), approximately 2.6 acres in size. Per Section 14-210 of the Zoning Code, the Planning & Zoning Board provides a recommendation on Tentative Plats to the City Commission. At their October 13, 2021, meeting, the Planning and Zoning Board recommended approval of the Tentative Plat (vote: 5 yes – 0 no). The Final Plat was prepared from the Tentative Plat, and has been reviewed for form by the Miami-Dade County Subdivision Department and the City’s Public Works Department. The Final Plat requires a final review and approval in Resolution form by the City Commission. If approved by the City Commission, the Applicant will have to file the Final Plat with Miami-Dade County.”

The Mayor taunted resident Maria C. Cruz for not having a public comment on this item.

Mayor
Vince Lago
Vice Mayor
Michael Mena
Commissioner
Rhonda Anderson
Commissioner
Jim Cason
Commissioner
Kirk R. Menendez
SecondedMotioned

City Commission Items

G-1: Discussion regarding Catalonia/Savadore Dog Park. (Sponsored by Commissioner Menendez) (Sponsored by Commissioner Anderson)

Staff informed that the Salvadore Park Dog Park will be opening in July. Commissioners Menendez and Anderson explained the concerns of residents at Catalonia regarding the current temporary dog park there. The Commission stated that the plan continues to be to revert that park to a children’s park.

G-2: Update on maintenance responsibility for swale areas next to bridges. (Sponsored by Mayor Lago).

G-3: Update on the peafowl mitigation program. (Sponsored by Mayor Lago) (Sponsored by Commissioner Menendez).

The City is limited by County Code on what it can do. County Code allows for residents to address peafowl with private vendors, as long as no harm is caused. The City is required to have a $5,000 budget, managed by Code Enforcement to address the issue in the public right of way. Anderson raised the issues of the invasive species affecting the lands being restored, like Camp Mahachee. The Commission discussed the possibility of re-engaging the County for more leeway on how to address the issue.

G-4: An update on the possibility of placing a fenced dog play area at Majorca Park. (Sponsored by Commissioner Menendez) (Sponsored by Commissioner Anderson).

The Commission was presented a tentative plan that would change the use of the open green space to be a designated dog area. The concept will be discussed with residents in a public meeting.

G-5: Discussion regarding plaques/information at the Art in Public places project. (Sponsored by Commissioner Anderson).

Commissioner Anderson would like to see a plaque with the artist, name, medium and pertinent information. Staff said it is working on making signs for its artwork, typical to museum signage. They will be in English, Spanish and Braile and include a QR code linking back to further information.

G-6: Discussion on Waste Management Recycling Center. (Sponsored by Commissioner Cason).

The City has among the lowest contamination rate of 8%. They ask that no plastic bags or foam be placed in the recycling.

G-7: A Resolution of the City Commission directing the City Manager to allocate and earmark mobility impact fees collected from development projects in the Flagler Street Section for the purpose of design and construction of streetscape improvements, traffic calming, and pedestrian safety improvements in the areas to address the impacts of new developments. (Sponsored by Commissioner Anderson).

“The City Commission prioritizes the proper design and planning in the construction of streetscape improvements throughout the City to promote a safer experience for residents and visitors alike. As new developments are built in Flagler Street Section of the City there will be a need in the area for mobility improvements, specifically streetscape improvements, traffic calming measures, and enhancing pedestrian connectivity. The City Commission desires to prioritize addressing any impacts of new development in the Flagler Street Section and ensure that as programming in the area comes online that any corresponding impact fees be allocated to streetscape improvements, traffic calming measures, and enhancing pedestrian connectivity.”

Maria C. Cruz spoke in favor, but asked that the process be completed and it not continue to be tabled. Resident, Evelyn Diaz, asked that this happen soon. Resident, Zully Pardo, said she hopes this will be a positive step forward.

Mayor
Vince Lago
Vice Mayor
Michael Mena
Commissioner
Rhonda Anderson
Commissioner
Jim Cason
Commissioner
Kirk R. Menendez
MotionedSeconded

G-8: A Resolution of the City Commission directing the City Manager to allocate and earmark mobility impact fees collected from development projects in and around the Biltmore and Craft Sections for the purpose of design and construction of streetscape improvements, traffic calming, and pedestrian safety improvements in the areas to address the impacts of new developments. (Sponsored by Commissioner Anderson).

“The City Commission prioritizes the proper design and planning in the construction of streetscape improvements throughout the City to promote a safer experience for residents and visitors alike. As new developments are built in the Biltmore and Craft Sections of the City there will be a need in the area for mobility improvements, specifically streetscape improvements, traffic calming measures, and enhancing pedestrian connectivity. The City Commission desires to prioritize addressing any impacts of new development in the Biltmore and Craft Sections and ensure that as programming in the areas comes online that any corresponding impact fees be allocated to streetscape improvements, traffic calming measures, and enhancing pedestrian connectivity.”

Mayor
Vince Lago
Vice Mayor
Michael Mena
Commissioner
Rhonda Anderson
Commissioner
Jim Cason
Commissioner
Kirk R. Menendez
MotionedSeconded

G-9: A Resolution of the City Commission directing the City Manager and the City Attorney to take the next steps, in accordance with Miami-Dade County requirements, in furtherance of annexation efforts for the areas known as Little Gables and High Pines/Ponce-Davis. (Sponsored by Mayor Lago).

“On August 24, 2023, the City Commission adopted Resolution No. 2022-196, directing the City Manager and City Attorney to take certain steps to reinitiate the annexation process for the area known as Little Gables. On January 10, 2023, the City Commission adopted Resolution No. 2023-09, amending Resolution No. 2022-196 to add High Pines/Ponce Davis to the City’s annexation efforts. The specific steps included taking action to retain professional consulting services to assist City staff with the annexation process, meet with the Board of County Commissioners following the November 2022 election to ascertain support for the annexation, analyze the additional City resources necessary to support Little Gables and High Pines/Ponce Davis if annexed, analyze a sample of one hundred (100) recent home sales within Little Gables and within High Pines/Ponce Davis, and report findings to the City Commission at an appropriate time to determine next steps. The City Manager and City Attorney have taken steps consistent with the direction provided in Resolutions No. 2022-196 and 2023-09 and the process of ascertaining support for annexation is ongoing. The analyses conducted thus far indicate there are long-term benefits to annexation that will accrue to the City as well as the areas of both Little Gables and High Pines/Ponce Davis; and the City Commission wishes to direct the City Manager and the City Attorney to take the next steps in furtherance of the annexation process, in accordance with Miami-Dade County Code § 20-3 The proposed resolution directs the City Manager and City Attorney to take the next steps in furtherance of annexation efforts including holding community meetings, preparing and sending petitions to ascertain support for annexation, and scheduling and sending notice for a public hearing for consideration of a resolution to authorize submittal of annexation petitions.”

Resident Maria C. Cruz explained that she wanted to ensure the resources were in place before annexation moved forward, in particular police and fire personnel.

Little Gables resident Lynn Blustein spoke against annexation.

Little Gables resident Kayla Rivera Gomez spoke, via Zoom, in favor of annexation.

The City Attorney asked that the resolution be amended to allow for staff to engage outside consultants as necessary.

Commissioners Anderson explained that she wanted residents to have the ability to vote. Commissioner Menendez explained that this was about moving the process forward and adding transparency.

Mayor
Vince Lago
Vice Mayor
Michael Mena
Commissioner
Rhonda Anderson
Commissioner
Jim Cason
Commissioner
Kirk R. Menendez
MotionedSeconded

Boards/Committees Items

H-1: A Resolution of the City Commission requesting a proposal for artwork with an all-inclusive budget of $1.25 million from the artist Frank Stella (recommended by the Cultural Development Board approval/denial vote: 5 to 0). (Lobbyist: N/A).

“The City Commission has consistently expressed interest in building the public art collection with significant artworks created by prominent, world-renowned artists. On December 14, 2022, the Arts Advisory panel discussed Mayor Lago’s interest in acquiring work by the artist Frank Stella, including appropriate locations and pricing. It was agreed that a work by an artist of his stature would require a significant budget and should be prominently placed. Continuing their discussion, they expressed interest in engaging with other artists and agreed that an opportunity of this magnitude could be offered to Frank Stella, Wangechi Mutu, and Hernan Bas. On December 20, 2022, the Cultural Development Board were advised of the Panel’s discussion and the Board requested a formal recommendation from the Arts Advisory Panel. On January 11, 2023, in response to the Cultural Development Board’s request, the Arts Advisory Panel discussed the price range of Frank Stella artworks provided by his gallery and made a motion to the Cultural Development Board recommending that the City request proposals for a major artwork from artists Frank Stella, Wangechi Mutu, and Hernan Bas with a budget of $750,000.00 (seven hundred fifty thousand dollars). On March 8, 2023, the Cultural Development Board reviewed and did not accept the recommendation of the Arts Advisory Panel. The Cultural Development Board discussed the scope of the project, recognizing the Panel’s support of Frank Stella, and made a motion to the City Commission recommending a proposal for artwork valued at 1.25m (one million, two hundred and twenty-five hundred thousand dollars) from Frank Stella. About the artist: Frank Stella was board in 1936 in Massachusetts and currently lives and works in New York City. Since his first solo gallery exhibition at Leo Castelli Gallery in 1960, Stella has exhibited widely throughout the U.S. and abroad. Early in his career, his work was included in a number of significant exhibitions that defined the art of the postwar era. Frank Stella’s work can be found in the public collections of the Art Institute of Chicago, IL; Baltimore Museum, MD; Brooklyn Museum, NY; Cleveland Art Museum, OH; Corcoran Gallery of Art, Washington, D.C.; Dallas Museum of Art, TX; Denver Art Museum, CO; High Museum of Art, GA; Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden, Washington, D.C.; Los Angeles County Museum of Art, CA; The Metropolitan Museum of Art, NY; Museum of Fine Arts, MA; The Museum of Modern Art, NY; National Gallery of Art, Washington, D.C.; Pérez Art Museum, FL; The Saint Louis Art Museum, MO; Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, NY; Whitney Museum of American Art, NY; and internationally at the Art Gallery of Ontario, Toronto, Canada; The Hara Museum of Contemporary Art, Tokyo, Japan; Kunstmuseum, Basel, Switzerland; Moderna Museet, Stockholm, Sweden; Musée National d’Art Moderne, Centre Georges Pompidou, Paris, France; Museum Moderner Kunst Stiftung Ludwig, Vienna, Austria; Nationalgalerie, Berlin, Germany; National Gallery of Australia, Canberra, Australia; Stedelijk Museum, Amsterdam, Netherlands; The Tate, London, UK; among other notable institutions and museums. The Cultural Development Board voted unanimously (5-0) to recommend requesting a proposal with an all-inclusive budget of $1.25m from the artist Frank Stella at their meeting on March 8, 2023.”

This was a preliminary conversation. There are no details on what art will be purchased.

Mayor
Vince Lago
Vice Mayor
Michael Mena
Commissioner
Rhonda Anderson
Commissioner
Jim Cason
Commissioner
Kirk R. Menendez
MotionedSeconded

City Manager Items

I-1: Florida Beverage Association Grant Presentation & Reverse Vending Machine Program Update.

Staff presented an update on the use of the vending machine and the program director spoke about how the City is a great partner.

I-2: A Resolution of the City Commission declaring Principles of Inclusion for individuals with autism and other special needs, and urging action by national, state, and local governments, businesses, and residential communities consistent with these principles.

Click here to read staff’s memo.

Mayor
Vince Lago
Vice Mayor
Michael Mena
Commissioner
Rhonda Anderson
Commissioner
Jim Cason
Commissioner
Kirk R. Menendez
SecondedMotioned

I-3: A Resolution of the City Commission authorizing the renewal of the Property and Casualty Insurance Program which includes, but is not limited to, property, general liability, automobile liability, public officials errors and omissions, excess workers’ compensation, crime liability, cyber liability, terrorism property and liability, pollution liability, deadly weapon protection coverage, flood, as well as other ancillary lines of insurance coverage and insurance broker fees through Arthur J. Gallagher Risk Management Services, Inc., for a not to exceed amount of $3,930,212 for the policy period of May 1, 2023 to May 1, 2024 (Funding Source: Insurance Fund). (Lobbyist: N/A).

Click here to read staff’s memo.

Vice Mayor Mena asked staff to break down the numbers to see if the City is over-insured. Risk Management Director Raquel Elejebarrieta stated that during the last Category 1 storm, the claims amounted to over $7 million. The City is ensured for $50 million for all its facilities. Changing the coverages from $50 million to $40 million, staff informed, would not represent a major impact. The City’s total insured value is $324 million. Staff informed the Commission that the City is within the norm of coverage. Excess workers comp coverage was changed by increasing the deductible and saving approximately $380,000, as staff states they have never reached the deductible threshold.

Mayor
Vince Lago
Vice Mayor
Michael Mena
Commissioner
Rhonda Anderson
Commissioner
Jim Cason
Commissioner
Kirk R. Menendez
SecondedMotioned

I-4: A Resolution of the City Commission authorizing the City Manager to enter into a Cooperative Agreement with the School Board of Miami-Dade County, Florida, for Project Victory, a program that assists young adults with disabilities by providing work skills and employment training within the City of Coral Gables.

“Project Victory is a program developed by Miami-Dade County Public Schools (“MDCPS”) to prepare students with disabilities for financial, personal/social and/or independent functioning through the acquisition of employability skills essential for success in the workplace. Project Victory is designed for up to 12 students per semester that are enrolled in a Miami-Dade County public school and are referred to Project Victory by their teachers, program specialists and other school support staff. The City hosted Project Victory students during the 2022-2023 school year and wishes to host Project Victory students again at City Hall, the 427 Building and the Public Safety Building during the 2023-2024 school year to allow students to benefit from on-the-job training and real-life experiences. MDCPS will provide an on-site-teacher and paraprofessional job coach that provide instruction, support and direct supervision to students according to a training plan developed for each student in conjunction with a City representative. While working at the City, the City will offer the students employability skills based on the student’s capabilities and experience.”

Mayor
Vince Lago
Vice Mayor
Michael Mena
Commissioner
Rhonda Anderson
Commissioner
Jim Cason
Commissioner
Kirk R. Menendez
SecondedMotioned

I-5: A Resolution of the City Commission authorizing the acceptance of grant funds in the amount of $364,032 on behalf of the Coral Gables Police Department as part of the Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas (HIDTA) Program to support Fiscal Year 2022-2023 operations of the South Florida Money Laundering Strike Force; and authorizing an amendment to the Fiscal Year 2022-2023 Annual Budget to recognize the $364,032 grant as revenue and to appropriate such funds to put toward the cost of the program.

“The Office of National Drug Control Policy’s (ONDCP) High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas (HIDTA) program provides assistance to federal, state and local law enforcement agencies in areas determined to be critical drug-trafficking regions of the United States. The purpose of this program is to combat the threat from drug trafficking regions such as South Florida. The City of Coral Gables will implement the grant funded initiative in accordance with all requirements provided by the HIDTA Program. An amendment to the Fiscal Year 2022-2023 Annual Budget is required to recognize the $364,032 grant funds as revenue and to appropriate such funds to cover the cost of the grant expenditures. For all subsequent annual awards, staff recommends the Commission authorizes annual budget amendments for the life of the program.”

Mayor
Vince Lago
Vice Mayor
Michael Mena
Commissioner
Rhonda Anderson
Commissioner
Jim Cason
Commissioner
Kirk R. Menendez
SecondedMotioned

I-6: A Resolution of the City Commission ratifying the attached Memorandum of Understanding between the City of Coral Gables and the Teamsters, Local 769 (“Union”), implementing the Classification and Compensation Study for bargaining unit classifications represented by the Union effective April 10, 2023.

“The City and the Teamsters, Local 769 (the “Union”) entered into a Collective Bargaining Agreement covering the period October 1, 2021, through September 30, 2024 (the “CBA”). The Union represents a bargaining unit of general employees holding various job classifications in the City. The City recently conducted a Classification and Compensation Study (the “Study”), which included the classifications within the bargaining unit represented by the Union and all other full-time and part-time classifications within the City except police officers and firefighters covered by a collective bargaining agreement. The City and the Union entered into a Memorandum of Understanding on or about March 23, 2023, (the “MOU”), implementing the Study effective April 10, 2023, for those classifications within the bargaining unit represented by the Union.”

Mayor
Vince Lago
Vice Mayor
Michael Mena
Commissioner
Rhonda Anderson
Commissioner
Jim Cason
Commissioner
Kirk R. Menendez
SecondedMotioned
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14 thoughts on “City Commission Recap (3/28/2023)

  1. Regarding the High Pines and Little Gables annexations (G-9), Little Gables is engulfed on 3 sides by the Gables and in close proximity to our New Fire & Police Station Station on Salzedo ST in the North Gables. High Pines is adjacent to downtown South Miami, on the other side of US 1. The Merricks lived North of Coral Way. Priority should be given to areas North of Coral Way! If you live in High Pines you’re probably frequenting South Miami & the Grove for groceries and entertainment, not Miracle Mile.

  2. Regarding C-2: Cameras in North Gables. Human lives are more IMPORTANT than trash pits! We need no points, traffic cameras in the North Gables. The radar/ cameras would not delay Emergency Services as roundabouts or speed humps do. In the past 27 years, I’ve been involved in two (2) car crashes in Little Gables & 1 cycling accident on Venetia AV, resulting in my hospitalization. It is just a matter of time/ probability, before other N Gables residents will go through the same ordeals. I URGE EVERYONE TO SPEAK OUT & DO SOMETHING!

  3. F-6: A Resolution of the City Commission approving the Final Plat entitled “Gables Village”

    Although there is nothing to stop this project, please note that decisions [from historic preservation to planning & zoning to city commission] have consequences. The hope is that our city will not continue to lose significant neighborhoods.

    Yes, one can agree that the “Gables Village” project is of high quality architecture and design. And yes, the project has been greenlighted and soon will begin demolition of an entire city block –13 residences–all World War II-era garden apartment houses representing key styles of the Coral Gables Colonial Revival, Neoclassical, and/or Monterey designs. At least one apartment building is designed by notable architect William Tschumy.

    [As a matter of fact, a renowned photographer and author of beautiful coffee table books, visited the neighborhood and documented its cultural landscape for posterity.]

    For historical value, please note that the area–legally described as Block 28 of the Biltmore Section–served its original purpose of offering affordable housing to area residents in quaint two-story buildings with green space between them. Founder George Merrick included affordable housing and garden apartments as part of the tenets of his City, based on the Garden City and City Beautiful movements.

    Thirteen structures will be replaced with new construction. In climate speak, this means it will take hundreds of years to offset carbon debt. An excerpt from the National Trust for Historic Preservation strongly makes the case: “Arguments that promote a practice of disposable real estate are unsustainable at best and at worst environmentally catastrophic.”

    It may be too late to restore and refurbish Block 28, “but wouldn’t it be pretty to think so”? [Ernest Hemingway, The Sun Also Rises]. Adaptive reuse is not only environmentally-friendly but also people-friendly. It would have kept a neighborhood intact and paid “homage to George Merrick’s legacy and original vision…”

    Decisions have consequences.

  4. Please, please help us take this City back from these manipulated by developers and donors Commissioners. DO NOT VOTE FOR BUCELLO !!!!!! This guy is supported by some of the worst Mayors in our history and is taking money from outsiders who will receive his support to make money within our City. Lago and Valdes Fauli, both two of the worst, are behind him to continue their passive destruction of this City, turning us into Brickell 2.0 for money. Bucello is the lowest of the low and should not be given any support as he is their puppet. Look at the flyers being sent out about Ariel. This has never happened in our City as it is dirty politics. They are fearful of Ariel not supporting their continued march through our City with their donors, and they are going after him with lies. No name or who authorized the flyers calling Ariel a socialist and liar. Who do you think is behind this? Candidates, tell us what good you will do but do not tear down an opponent with name calling and lies. Sounds like a play from Trump’s politics. Bucello, you need to be ashamed of yourself on how you are running your campaign. Never never never vote for him.

  5. If I could choose between having the police in my neighborhood or having an expensive painting hanging in City Hall, I would choose the police.

    Unfortunately but as usual, the mayor and his 4 commissioners made the wrong choice.

  6. The City wants to spend over $1 million on “art” when prices at the grocery store are sky high and most are struggling to make ends meet. Let the super rich— not those who work for a living— pay for the “art”.

    Use the $1 million to stop the exodus of police officers from the City and give them a decent wage. They are there when you need them.

  7. Mayor Lago was crying at the commission meeting today, because he still can’t believe he is the mayor.

  8. As of March 17, 2023, Alex Bucelo got $101,874 in campaign money.

    $80,874 or 80% of Bucelo’s money came from addresses not in Coral Gables.

    If elected, Alex Bucelo will be the commissioner for outsiders.

    Ariel Fernandez for commissioner.

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