City Commission Recap (4/12/2022)

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 April 12th.

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.

Watch Meeting

To watch the meeting live on Zoom click here. The meeting will also be available live on the City’s YouTube Channel. You can watch it by clicking here.

Mayor’s Comments

Sidewalk Cleaning: Mayor Vince Lago thanked businesses that were doing their part to clean the sidewalks. He explained that he has had discussions with staff and the Chamber about Gables Insider‘s Ariel Fernandez’s suggestion to have the City hire pressure cleaning companies to clean the sidewalks and bill businesses directly, in order to facilitate the process at potential bulk rate savings to small businesses.

Town Hall: The Mayor thanked staff and residents for participating in his Town Hall, which was attended by about 150 individuals.

Cavalier Fellowship and Page Programs: Deadline is April 25th. The Mayor encouraged students to sign up.

Consent Agenda

E-1: A Resolution of the City Commission accepting the recommendation to authorize the award of a contract with Meridian Rapid Defense Group LLC as a “Sole Source Procurement,” pursuant to Section 2-689 of the City’s Procurement Code. Lobbyist: N/A.

“The Police Department has determined a need for barricades/safety barriers at special events and City
events in order to ensure the safety of pedestrians and event attendees. Following an evaluation and a test run with the Community Recreation Department at the City Tree Lighting Ceremony, the Archer 1200 Barrier and Archer 1200 Barrier Trailer Kit are best suited to provide the security and protection needs of the City at these events. The Archer 1200 provides portable security and receives little to no damage following direct impact from a vehicle. Because it is constructed from ballistic-rated steel, it is reusable following impact. This allows for the safety of pedestrians and event attendees throughout the event and for future events. The steel is unique in that it is ballistic rated for armor piercing NATO rounds up to 0.50 caliber ballistic rounds and can stop a vehicle traveling 30 mph within 14 feet. Meridian Rapid Defense Group LLC is the creator, manufacturer, and patent holder of the Archer 1200 Barrier and Archer 1200 Barrier Trailer Kit. These products are manufactured and sold by Meridian directly and cannot be acquired from other vendors. This equipment is best suited to the City’s need for safety at these events. The cost to acquire this equipment will not exceed $200,000.00. 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.”

E-2: A Resolution of the City Commission accepting the recommendation of the Chief Procurement Officer to award the Concession Food Supplies to Sysco South Florida, Inc., the lowest responsive and responsible bidder, in the estimated annual amount of $124,408, pursuant to Invitation for Bids (IFB) 2022-006 and Section 2-763 of the Procurement Code entitled “Contract Award”. Lobbyist: N/A.

“The purpose of this Invitation for Bids is to establish a contract with a successful bidder for the purchase and delivery of food products for the Venetian Pool Concession Stand. On February 18, 2022, the Procurement Division of Finance formally advertised, issued and distributed the IFB for the purchase and delivery of food products for the Venetian Pool Concession Stand. Six (6) prospective bidders downloaded the IFB package from Public Purchase, the City’s web-based e-Procurement service. On March 17, 2022, two (2) bids were received in response to the IFB 2022-006 from: All Brand Supplies Distributors, Inc., and Sysco South Florida, Inc. The lowest responsive responsible bidder for this project was determined to be Sysco South Florida, Inc., in the estimated annual amount of $124,408 based on the estimated quantities for each line item. The responses were reviewed by the Procurement Division in order to determine responsiveness to the requirements of the IFB and to identify the lowest responsive responsible bidder. The procurement Division finalized its due diligence process and confirmed that Sysco South Florida, Inc., is both responsive to the requirements of the IFB and responsible bidder. The Parks and Recreation Department concurs with the Chief Procurement Officer’s recommendation to award the Concession Food Supplies to Sysco South Florida, Inc., in the estimated annual amount of $124,408.07 but not to exceed the available and approved budget.”

E-3: A Resolution of the City Commission authorizing an amendment to the temporary license agreement between the City of Coral Gables and Ben & Giules, Inc ., with regard to the premises located at 290 Miracle Mile, Coral Gables, Florida, 33134, extending the term for ten (10) months (June 1, 2022- March 31, 2023). Lobbyist: N/A.

“On November 12, 2019, the Economic Development Department (the “Department”) presented the Pop-Up Incubator Program (the “Program”) to the City Commission. The Program would be advertised, the proposals received would be reviewed by a selection committee, who would select a Licensor to occupy 290 Miracle Mile, Coral Gables, FL 33134 (the “Premises”) using a temporary license agreement (the “Agreement”). On July 23, 2021, the Department advertised the Program for sixty (60) days. A selection committee composed of Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Mark Trowbridge, Business Improvement District Executive Director Aura Reinhardt, City of Coral Gables Retail Consultant Midge McCauley, and Assistant Economic Development Director Belkys Perez reviewed four (4) proposals received and selected Ben & Giules, Inc. (the “Licensee”) as the Licensee. Pursuant to Resolution 2021-326, on November 16, 2021, the City of Coral Gables (the “Licensor”) and the Licensee executed the Agreement with lease terms are as follows: Premises: 850 Sq. Ft. Total Monthly Rent: $2,000.00 per month.
Security Deposit: $2,000.00. Term: December 1, 2021- May 31, 2022. Renewal: Six (6) additional months (June 1, 2022 – November 30, 2022) at the City Manager’s discretion. Licensee has requested and Licensor has agreed to extend the term of the Agreement for an additional ten (10) months, commencing on June 1, 2022, through March 31, 2023, subject to all terms and conditions set forth in the Agreement.”

E-4: A Resolution of the City Commission accepting the recommendation of the Chief Procurement Officer to extend the Citywide Landscape Maintenance Services contract RFP 2011.09.23 with South Florida Maintenance Services Inc., pursuant to Section 2-764 of the Procurement Code entitled “Approval of Change Orders and Contract Modifications,”. Lobbyist: N/A.

“On June 1, 2012, the City Commission entered into an Agreement with South Florida Maintenance Services Inc. to provide labor, equipment, materials and supervision needed for the maintenance of landscaping and irrigation of various locations throughout the City. The purpose of the contract is to provide citywide landscaping maintenance services for the city’s various locations. In order to allow time for the completion of a new competitive solicitation process and a new contract executed, it is recommended that the Citywide Landscaping contract be extended on a month-to-month basis to allow for the continuation of services in the estimated amount of $32,011.58 which will not exceed the available budget. Section 2-585 of the Procurement Code authorizes the City Manager to delegate authority to the Chief Procurement Officer to administer and make recommendations on City contracts. As such, the contract with South Florida Maintenance Services Inc., may be extended under Section 2-764 of the Procurement Code entitled “Approval of Change Orders and Contract Modifications”.”

E-5: A Resolution of the City Commission re-appointing Rev. Arnold Perry and Luis Quevedo (Nominated by Commission-As-A-Whole) to serve as members of the Police Officers’ Retirement Trust Fund Board Of Trustees, for remainder of a two (2) year term which began on June 1, 2021 and continues through May 31, 2023.

E-6: A Resolution of the City Commission authorizing the execution of a new National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Interlocal Agreement between the City of Coral Gables, Miami-Dade County and all Co-Permittees named in NPDES Permit No. FLS000003 for the purpose of complying with the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System permitting requirements.

“Execution of this Interlocal Agreement and associated Counterparts is necessary for the City of Coral Gables to continue to be a participant, as a Co-Permittee with Miami-Dade County (MDC) on NPDES permit No. FLS000003. Permit compliance for NPDES Permit No. FLS000003 is required by the State of Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) pursuant to Section 403.0885, Florida Statutes, Rule 62-624, Florida Administrative Code, and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This Agreement allows for MDC to initiate professional services, on the City’s behalf, required to accomplish tasks as set-forth in the NPDES MS4 Operating Permit in the areas of Water Monitoring and Best Management Practices from the Agreement’s effective date of October 1, 2022 through its expiration date of September 30, 2027. As per the Co-Permittee Activities detailed in Attachment A, the City of Coral Gables will be required to reimburse MDC for said professional services for water monitoring and sampling, an estimated amount of $10,167 per year. Previous NPDES Interlocal Agreements were approved: 1. On June 13, 2005, the City Commission adopted Resolution No. 2005-115 approving the execution of an NPDES Interlocal Agreement with Miami-Dade County (MDC), which expired November 16, 2012. 2. On July 14, 2012, the City Commission adopted Resolution No. 2012-115 approving the execution of an NPDES Interlocal Agreement with MDC, which expired September 30, 2017. 3. On May 17, 2017, the City Commission adopted Resolution No. 2017-98 approving the execution of an NPDES Interlocal Agreement with MDC, which expires September 30, 2022.”

This is the vote to approve the Consent Agenda, items E-1 to E-6.

Mayor
Vince Lago
Vice Mayor
Michael Mena
Commissioner
Jorge L. Fors, Jr.
Commissioner
Rhonda Anderson
Commissioner
Kirk R. Menendez
MotionedSeconded

Ordinances On Second Reading

F-1: An Ordinance of the City Commission providing for a text amendment to Article 14 “Process,” Section 14-214 “Protection of Landowners’ Rights; Relief from Inordinate Burdens” of the City of Coral Gables Official Zoning Code to clarify procedures to resolve disputes and provide relief from the application of the Zoning Code, including the granting of variances; providing for severability clause, repealer provision, codification, and providing for an effective date.

“No changes have been made from First Reading. The City is proposing a Zoning Code text amendment to clarify procedures to resolve disputes and provide relief from the application of the Zoning Code, including the granting of variances. The draft Ordinance of the Zoning Code text amendments is provided as Exhibit A.”

Mayor
Vince Lago
Vice Mayor
Michael Mena
Commissioner
Jorge L. Fors, Jr.
Commissioner
Rhonda Anderson
Commissioner
Kirk R. Menendez
MotionedSeconded

F-2: An Ordinance of the City Commission granting approval of a Planned Area Development (PAD) pursuant to Zoning Code Article 14, “Process,” Section 14-206, “General Procedures for Planned Area Development” for a mixed-use project referred to as “Alexan Crafts” on property legally described as lots 5 thru 27, Block 28, Coral Gables Crafts Section (340, 330, 322, 314, 310, 300 Catalonia Avenue, 301, 309, 317, 323, 325, 333, 341 Malaga Avenue), Coral Gables, Florida; including required conditions; providing for a repealer provision, severability clause, and providing for an effective date. ( 02 09 22 PZB recommended approval; Vote 4-0) Lobbyist: Jorge Navarro. Lobbyist: John McWilliams. Agenda Items F-2 and F-7 are related.

“No changes have been made since First Reading. The proposed project referred to as “Alexan Crafts” is a mixed-use project located in the recently rezoned Crafts Section, generally bounded by Le Jeune Road to the west, Salzedo Street to the east, Catalonia Avenue to the north, and Malaga Avenue to the south. The project consists of 22 live-work units on the ground level, 263 residential units on upper levels, 364 parking spaces onsite, with 6,800 sq. ft. public park. The proposed building height is 7-stories at 77 feet.”

As he did on First Reading, Commissioner Kirk R. Menendez recused himself.

Director of Planning and Zoning Ramon Trias explained that traffic calming was added and the tree removal and relocation was also addressed. Developer representative, Jorge Navarro, explained that the traffic calming updates (six speed cushions) was approved by his client. He also stated that the tree relocation has begun. The Mayor explained that this should be an example of this Commission’s expectations, to have them address community concerns through the development process. As for traffic, the Mayor wants developers to do their part to address issues their project could bring to the community. Lastly, he discussed the need for green space and ensuring projects include green space.

Mayor
Vince Lago
Vice Mayor
Michael Mena
Commissioner
Jorge L. Fors, Jr.
Commissioner
Rhonda Anderson
Commissioner
Kirk R. Menendez
MotionedSecondedRecused

Ordinances On First Reading

F-3: An Ordinance of the City Commission providing for text amendments to the City of Coral Gables Official Zoning Code, Article 4, “Zoning Districts,” Section 2-100, “Residential Districts,” to increase the interior side setback of certain Multi -Family 3 (MF3) properties; providing for severability clause, repealer provision, codification, and providing for an effective date.

“As requested by the City Commission, the City is proposing a Zoning Code text amendment to increase the interior side setback of townhouses and rowhouses to 5 feet when abutting a developed property that is not a townhouse. There is currently no interior side setback for townhouses, unless abutting a designated historic building. The pro posed text amendment is requiring a 5-foot interior side setback when abutting any developed property that is not a townhouse. The Multi-Family 3 (MF3) is a townhouse zoning district that was created from the Zoning Code Update to reflect the development rights of the Multi-Family Low Density land use designation of the Comprehensive Plan. Many regulations in the MF3 zoning district we re transferred from the former Multi-Family Special Area (MFSA), including the interior side setback of 0 feet. However, there have been issues constructing townhouses with a 0-foot setback next to existing multi-family buildings. Therefore, the text amendment proposed is to require a 5-foot interior side setback when abutting a developed property, except if that abutting property is a townhouse. Planning & Zoning Board Meeting: At the March 9, 2022, Planning & Zoning Board meeting, members of the Board expressed concerns about limiting the development potential of future townhouses when building next to an existing townhouse with a 0-foot side setback. Therefore, the Board recommended denial of the text amendment as presented, vote 4-0. As requested by the City Commission, Staff has since revised the proposed text amendment to exclude the required side setback if the abutting developed property is a townhouse. As currently drafted and presented the Commission, the side setback will only apply to a property if it abuts an existing multifamily building.”

This change would only apply to presently developed properties and not apply when the adjoining property is a town home. The concern from some on the dais is ensuring this would not affect the property rights of property owners and encroaching on development rights.

Mayor
Vince Lago
Vice Mayor
Michael Mena
Commissioner
Jorge L. Fors, Jr.
Commissioner
Rhonda Anderson
Commissioner
Kirk R. Menendez
MotionedSeconded

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 1, “General Provisions,” Section 1-108, “Transitional Rules,” to clarify that allowed existing uses of property or permitted as a conditional use of property within the city prior to the effective date of the Zoning Code Update Ordinance No. 2021-07 shall remain in effect as a permitted use of property or a conditional use of property upon the adoption of Ordinance No. 2021-07; providing for retroactive application; providing for severability clause, repealer provision, codification, and providing for an effective date.

“The City is proposing a Zoning Code text amendment to clarify that any permitted use or conditional use that was allowed on a given property prior to the adoption of the Zoning Code Update in 2021 remains in effect as a permitted use or a conditional use for that property. The Zoning Code Update of 2021 both organized a more user-friendly framework of zoning provisions and also created a few new zoning districts that reflected the allowed development rights from the Comprehensive Plan’s future land use designations. Many additional limitations for the location of certain uses were added to restrict these uses from abutting and impacting single-family properties to mimic the former Commercial Limited zoning district. Similarly, certain uses were limited to only be allowed within the appropriate district overlays. However, the streamlined permitted and conditional use table as adopted with the Zoning Code Update could be interpreted to inadvertently remove some allowed uses or conditional uses for properties. Therefore, the proposed text amendment clarifies that formerly permitted and conditional uses of any property apply to the new zoning districts as formerly allowed on the property. The draft Ordinance of the Zoning Code text amendments is provided as Exhibit A.”

Mayor
Vince Lago
Vice Mayor
Michael Mena
Commissioner
Jorge L. Fors, Jr.
Commissioner
Rhonda Anderson
Commissioner
Kirk R. Menendez
SecondedMotioned

F-5: An Ordinance of the City Commission amending the City of Coral Gables Code by amending Chapter 2, Article III, Section 2-147 “Membership” in Division 4- Sustainability Advisory Board; providing for a repealer provision, severability clause, codification, and providing for an effective date. (Sponsored by Mayor Lago).

“The City’s Sustainability Advisory Board has been in place in 2010 and currently has 10 members, including representation from the Coral Gables Chamber of Commerce, Florida International University, and the University of Miami. The Sustainability Advisory Board has attracted numerous young people to its recent meetings and events and the City Commission wishes to increase the Board’s membership to provide representation for the youth of Coral Gables. The youth member shall be a freshman, sophomore, or junior in high school at the time of their appointment, and attend a high school located in Coral Gables and/or be a resident of Coral Gables. The youth member will be a board as a whole appointee.”

Mayor
Vince Lago
Vice Mayor
Michael Mena
Commissioner
Jorge L. Fors, Jr.
Commissioner
Rhonda Anderson
Commissioner
Kirk R. Menendez
MotionedSeconded

F-6: An Ordinance of the City Commission amending the City of Coral Gables Code by creating Chapter 54 “Solid Waste”, Article III- Collection and Disposal, Division 3- Collection Requirements, Section 54-150 Prohibited Disposition of Yard Waste, Dirt, or Debris When Using Leaf Blowers; providing for repealer provision, severability clause, codification, and providing for an effective date. (Sponsored by Commissioner Anderson).

“The City of Coral Gables has various rules and regulations regarding the use of leaf blowers however, the City Commission is aware that frequently property owners and/or their hired landscapers blow dirt, debris, and yard waste into the City right-of-way and on to neighboring properties. Doing that can cause problems with stormwater catch basins, can be unsightly, and when debris is blown onto a neighboring property, cause a nuisance for the neighbor. The City Commission wishes to prohibit property owners and landscapers from improperly disposing of a property’s yard waste, dirt, or debris when utilizing leaf blower and make it explicitly clear that such action is prohibited within the City.”

The first penalty will be a warning and the second will be a citation for $100. Subsequent citations would be for $200. The City will work on an educational component to inform residents and businesses. The biggest item of discussion was who would be fined. The second, how to enforce and hold them accountable. The Commission directed staff to amend for second reading to reflect the entity doing the blowing of the leaves would be responsible. If it is the homeowner, it would be the homeowner. If it is a landscaper, it would be the landscaper.

Mayor
Vince Lago
Vice Mayor
Michael Mena
Commissioner
Jorge L. Fors, Jr.
Commissioner
Rhonda Anderson
Commissioner
Kirk R. Menendez
MotionedSeconded

Resolutions

F-7: A Resolution of the City Commission granting approval for Conditional Use Mixed -Use Site Plan pursuant to Zoning Code Section 2-200 “Mixed Use Districts” for a mixed-use project referred to as “Alexan Crafts” on property legally described as lots 5 thru 27, Block 28, Coral Gables Crafts Section (340, 330, 322, 314, 310, 300 Catalonia Avenue, 301, 309, 317, 323, 325, 333, 341 Malaga Avenue), Coral Gables, Florida; including required conditions; providing for a repealer provision, severability clause, and providing for an effective date. (02 09 22 PZB recommended approval; Vote 4-0) (This Resolution is not for consideration at this time and will be included with the above ordinances on Second Reading if approved on First Reading.) Lobbyist: Jorge Navarro. Lobbyist: John McWilliams. Agenda Items F-2 and F-7 are related.

“No changes have been made since First Reading. The proposed project referred to as “Alexan Crafts” is a mixed-use project located in the recently rezoned Crafts Section, generally bounded by Le Jeune Road to the west, Salzedo Street to the east, Catalonia Avenue to the north, and Malaga Avenue to the south. The project consists of 22 live-work units on the ground level, 263 residential units on upper levels, 364 parking spaces onsite, with 6,800 sq. ft. public park. The proposed building height is 7-stories at 77 feet.”

As he did on First Reading, Commissioner Kirk R. Menendez recused himself.

See comments on item F-2.

Mayor
Vince Lago
Vice Mayor
Michael Mena
Commissioner
Jorge L. Fors, Jr.
Commissioner
Rhonda Anderson
Commissioner
Kirk R. Menendez
SecondedMotionedRecused

City Commission Items

G-1: A Resolution of the City Commission providing direction to the City Manager on changes to Salvadore Park to allow for a dedicated area for dogs. (Sponsored by Commissioner Anderson) (Sponsored by Commissioner Menendez).

“Salvadore Park is a large, heavily used park located at 1120 Andalusia Avenue in the City. The park has a recently updated inclusive playground and is home to the Salvadore Park Tennis Center. As a centrally located park the City Commission believes that the community would be well served by dedicating an unused portion of the park as a dog park.”

Following a lengthy discussion, the Mayor proposed having staff work on a plan for the park with an aluminum fence, by maximizing the dog park with sidewalk as close to the street as possible. The Mayor asked for pricing to be as low as possible.

Mayor
Vince Lago
Vice Mayor
Michael Mena
Commissioner
Jorge L. Fors, Jr.
Commissioner
Rhonda Anderson
Commissioner
Kirk R. Menendez
MotionedSeconded

G-2: A Resolution of the City Commission providing direction to the City Manager regarding dogs at Catalonia Park. (Sponsored by Commissioner Anderson).

“Catalonia Park is currently being used by a number of dog owners who allow their pets to run off-leash
throughout the park creating a concern over the safety of children playing in the park. As the City looks to create dedicated dog parks and dog runs throughout the City, the City Commission desires that the City Manager make clear that dogs are prohibited from being off-leash in Catalonia Park and directs that the City Manager update any signage to reflect the prohibition, and increase enforcement of that prohibition.”

The Commission discussed that this is an enforcement issue at this park. Commission made it clear they want staff to find a resolution on this issue and make sure everyone knows the Park is not for use with dogs. The Manager said Naeighborhood Safety Aides (NSAs) would patrol and Police would cite.

The Mayor also asked the Clerk to add an item to the May 10th agenda to ensure that NSAs have the authority to enforce.

Mayor
Vince Lago
Vice Mayor
Michael Mena
Commissioner
Jorge L. Fors, Jr.
Commissioner
Rhonda Anderson
Commissioner
Kirk R. Menendez
MotionedSeconded

G-3: A Resolution of the City Commission directing City Staff to give preference to Coral Gables located non-profit groups when scheduling events at the Coral Gables County Club. (Sponsored by Commissioner Menendez).

“The City will be assuming responsibility of scheduling and operating the Coral Gables Country Club on May 1, 2022 and the City has approved a discount for registered non-profit groups who book the Coral Gables Country Club venue. The City wishes to express a preference for non-profit groups located in the City of Coral Gables in the event of a scheduling conflict between non-profit groups.”

Commissioner Kirk R. Menendez wanted to ensure that Coral Gables based entities had preference when booking the Coral Gables Country Club.

Mayor
Vince Lago
Vice Mayor
Michael Mena
Commissioner
Jorge L. Fors, Jr.
Commissioner
Rhonda Anderson
Commissioner
Kirk R. Menendez
SecondedMotioned

G-4: An update from staff on stormwater catch basins and grates. (Sponsored by Mayor Lago).

Director Diaz explained that three baskets and seven grates were placed and the baskets have been able to confirm the need. It has been a one year pilot program. Project would cost over $400,000 to implement the full project in downtown Coral Gables. There would also be over $100,000 in recurring maintenance cost and there is not enough staff to manage the project. The Mayor explained that the Bay needs to be protected as it is an economic driver for the community. He would like to have a plan in place in order to seek State and Federal funding. The Mayor asked for the City to explore, at least, the installation of the grates in downtown. He instructed staff to include this in the next agenda with the estimated cost.

G-5: Discussion regarding viable swale options. (Sponsored by Mayor Lago).

Click here to see staff’s presentation.

The Mayor’s concern is areas where there is high traffic and the current solutions are not proper. He is seeking a viable option that would endure high traffic. He specifically mentioned the corner of Granada and Blue Road. Assistant Director of Public Works for Greenspace Management, Deena Bell-Llewellyn explained that currently there are three permitted options of crushed gravel, to create a border and to plant it through. The Mayor asked for staff to present viable options for that intersection at the May City Commission meeting.

G-6: Discussion regarding commercial waste in residential areas. (Sponsored by Commissioner Anderson).

Commissioner Anderson will be meeting with the City Manager and the item will be brought back at the first Commission meeting in May.

G-7: Discussion regarding potential amendments to Ordinance 2019-19 relating to Electric Vehicle Charging requirements. (Sponsored by Mayor Lago) (Sponsored by Commissioner Anderson).

Assistant City Attorney Gus Ceballos explained that at present the requirement is that 2% of spaces have chargers. 3% are EV ready to setup. 15% have to be EV capable with all line sin place. The Mayor wants to push the requirements with the growing number of electric vehicles being rolled out. He wants to see those numbers increased. He has tried to charge his electric vehicle and found no open stations, demonstrating that there is a growth of electric vehicle use. Miami-Dade County is requiring a 20% EV ready for new buildings starting this year. The Mayor is asking that the Commission consider at least matching that number. The item will return to the Commission at the next meeting.

G-8: Discussion regarding Vision Zero. (Sponsored by Commissioner Anderson).

According to the City’s Public Works Director Hermes Diaz, Vision Zero is an approach in which you prioritize pedestrians and bicycles over cars with the goals of removing cars from the streets. He explained the City is already doing its part by adding traffic calming and speed limits were reduced. The Mayor recommended an approach where residents have the plan explained to them personally, a door-to-door approach to get sidewalks expanded.

G-9: Discussion regarding potential bike lane route on Valencia. (Sponsored by Commissioner Anderson).

Commissioner Anderson explained she has spoken to staff about the feasibility of having a bike lane on Valencia that can eventually connect with the Mobility Hub. Director Diaz explained that in order to have the bike lane, trees would need to be removed along with two feet of the sidewalks. The requirement would be to have two way bike lanes. Anderson recommended having the bike lane head one direction on Valencia and the other direction on another road. She asked staff to circle back with a potential plan. Staff will bring this back in May. The Mayor asked for an update a the next Commission meeting on Blue Road and Alhambra sidewalks.

G-10: Discussion regarding electric vehicle charging station requirements in development projects. (Sponsored by Commissioner Anderson).

Boards/Committees Items

H-1: A Resolution approving the concept and donation for a work of public art by Vaughn Spann, in conjunction with the Alexan Crafts development project at 330 Catalonia Avenue in fulfillment of the Art in Public Places requirement for public art in private development (unanimously recommended by the Arts Advisory Panel approval /denial vote: 9 to 0; unanimously recommended by the Cultural Development Board approval/denial vote: 6 to 0).

Click here to see staff’s PowerPoint presentation.

Mayor
Vince Lago
Vice Mayor
Michael Mena
Commissioner
Jorge L. Fors, Jr.
Commissioner
Rhonda Anderson
Commissioner
Kirk R. Menendez
MotionedSecondedRecused

H-2: A Resolution of the City Commission accepting a proposal from the Julio Larraz Foundation and approving the fabrication and installation of the sculpture Mars by Julio Larraz, (recommended by the Arts Advisory Panel, approval/denial vote: 8 to 1, and the Cultural Development Board approval/denial vote: 6 to 0); authorizing an amendment to the Fiscal Year 2021-2022 amended budget to recognize as revenue a transfer from the Art in Public Places reserve, and appropriating such funds to put toward the cost of fabricating and installing the artwork.

“The Julio Larraz Foundation submitted a partial-gift proposal to the City through Jose Valdes-Fauli for the City to fabricate a sculpture by the artist Julio Larraz in celebration of a retrospective exhibition of the artist’s career at the Coral Gables Museum. On May 26, 2021, the Arts Advisory panel reviewed the initial proposal consisting of different artworks and recommended a subsequent proposal responding to the Panel’s comments, including proposal of a specific work, relationship to its surroundings, and following public response to outdoor work installed by the Museum as part of the exhibition. The Coral Gables Museum launched the exhibition “The Kingdom We Carry Inside” on December 1, 2021. The exhibition runs through April 30, 2022 and features the sculpture Mars installed outside on the Museum Plaza. On March 9, 2022, the Arts Advisory panel reviewed a revised proposal for the sculpture Mars and recommended approval to the Cultural Development Board. On March 15, 2022, the Cultural Development Board reviewed the proposal for the sculpture Mars and made a motion recommending approval to the City Commission. About the artist: Julio Larraz was board in 1944 in Cuba and currently lives and works in Miami. He is an accomplished painter, sculptor, and draftsman, best known by h is precise and detailed technique, imagination, and subtle touch. The artist juxtaposes irony, humor, narrative, and metaphysical perspectives in his work. Larraz exhibits throughout the world, including frequently in New York and Italy. His artworks are in prominent public collections including Mexico, Colombia, France, Philadelphia, New York, and Florida. About the artwork: Since its installation on the Coral Gables Museum Plaza, Mars has received an enthusiastic response noted by the number of people stopping to admire the sculpture and have their picture taken with the artwork, which resembles an oversize watermelon slice with the red surface having a planet or moon-like quality. Mars is an edition of 3 with 2 artist proofs. The artwork currently on view is a loan; this will be a new fabrication, as number 3 of 3. The fabrication is estimated to take 7 months to complete, and placement is recommended in Pittman Park. The design of the sculpture is being donated by The Julio Larraz Foundation. Funding for fabrication ($150,000), engineering, foundation, lighting, signage, transportation, and installation (est. $46,000) of the artwork is being proposed through the Art Fund. The cost of annual maintenance is anticipated to be minimal and is being proposed through use of the general fund as ordinary maintenance and will be included as part of the City’s annual public art maintenance plan. The Arts Advisory Panel voted (8-1) to recommend acquisition of Julio Larraz’ Mars at their meeting on March 9, 2022. The Cultural Development Board voted unanimously (6-0) to recommend acquisition of Julio Larraz’ Mars at their meeting on March 15, 2022.

Click here to see staff’s presentation.

Mayor
Vince Lago
Vice Mayor
Michael Mena
Commissioner
Jorge L. Fors, Jr.
Commissioner
Rhonda Anderson
Commissioner
Kirk R. Menendez
MotionedSeconded

City Manager Items

I-1: Presentation and budget for Granada Golf Course Pro Shop Restaurant.

The estimate given by Director Diaz was $900,000 for the interior work. The Mayor offered to start working on pricing and negotiating the price himself.

The Commission moved to have the Mayor be the lead on this project.

The Commission also asked that the City reach out to Rita Tennyson to see her interest in managing the restaurant after the renovations, prior to the next Commission meeting.

I-2: A Resolution of the City Commission declaring Principles of Inclusion for all individuals with autism and 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
Jorge L. Fors, Jr.
Commissioner
Rhonda Anderson
Commissioner
Kirk R. Menendez
SecondedMotioned

I-3: A Resolution of the City Commission authorizing a contract modification to the Electrical Contractor Services contract no. IFB2019-014 with AGC Electric, Inc. pursuant to Section 2-764(b), Approval of Change Orders and Contract Modifications, in the amount of $1,240,000 to accommodate work required throughout the City.

“On May 7, 2019, a competitive solicitation was issued to establish a contract for citywide electrical contractor services. Under the City Manager’s award authority, the award for the services was made to AGC Electric, Inc. on July 5, 2019, with an initial two-year term with three-one year renewal options. The contract was awarded to accommodate work that includes troubleshooting and correcting problems in electrical systems of any size and voltage both indoors and outdoors, general electrical maintenance and repair, new service installations, emergency repair work, roadway and overhead streetlights and other electrical related work. On November 12, 2019, the City Commission approved a change order and contract modification in the amount of $1,652,000 to accommodate unplanned projects which proved to be the most efficient method to expedite key projects. This current contract modification is necessary to ensure the contract capacity is in place to cover city-owned streetlights maintenance and Public Works projects consisting of the Alhambra Water Tower and Salvadore Park lighting conversions to LED, a flow gate panel installation, and the Whiteway Lights project. The amount of $1,240,000 will cover expenses during fiscal year 2021-2022 as well as each year moving forward, based on need and will not exceed the available budget.”

According to the City Manager there is no change in price.

Mayor
Vince Lago
Vice Mayor
Michael Mena
Commissioner
Jorge L. Fors, Jr.
Commissioner
Rhonda Anderson
Commissioner
Kirk R. Menendez
SecondedMotioned

I-4: A Resolution of the City Commission authorizing encroachments into the public right-of-way relating to the City of Coral Gables Mobility Hub project consisting of the installation of building façade panels and slab extensions surrounding the property located at 245 Andalusia Avenue, subject to requirements of the Public Works Department.

“The proposed encroachments consist of the installation of building façade panels and slab extensions along 245 Andalusia Avenue, the alley to its west, north, and east of said property as well as the northeast corner of the alley, as described in Exhibit A attached hereto. The Public Works Department does not object to this request for encroachments into the public right-of-way, subject to the following conditions of the Public Works Department: a. Obtain approval of the Development Services Department, including the Structural Division; b. The proposed encroachments shall be maintained in good condition at all times; c. The proposed encroachments shall be constructed in accordance with City of Coral Gables Public Works’ Standards and all other pertinent Codes, to include and not limited to structural and electrical reviews by the Development Services Department, as necessary; d. The proposed encroachment shall be maintained in accordance with the City Zoning Code, Section 10-106, requiring that all visual obstructions be kept within a maximum height of thirty inches (30”) within the visibility triangle.”

ALSO READ: Commission Seeks To Approve Coral Gables Version Of Hot Wheels Ultimate Garage, Against Resident Wishes.

Mayor
Vince Lago
Vice Mayor
Michael Mena
Commissioner
Jorge L. Fors, Jr.
Commissioner
Rhonda Anderson
Commissioner
Kirk R. Menendez
SecondedMotioned

I-5: A Resolution of the City Commission authorizing a change order in the amount of $640,000.00 (six hundred forty thousand dollars) to M. Arthur Gensler Jr. & Associates, Inc., to allow the continuation of design consultant services for the Mobility Hub project and authorizing an amendment to the fiscal year 2022-2023 budget to appropriate such funds to put toward the cost of the change order. Lobbyist: N/A.

“The City of Coral Gables (“City”) entered into an agreement with M. Arthur Gensler Jr. & Associates, Inc., (“Gensler”) on June 8, 2021, to provide design consultant services for the Mobility Hub project. Since executing the agreement, City staff has worked closely with Gensler to perfect the design of the project, incorporate new elements born of public input, and enhancing existing elements to achieve a world class design. The parties have also agreed that the estimated cost of the project for the purpose of determining the design fee on a percentage basis is $40,000,000 (forty million dollars). The project scope has been increased to allow for an enhanced rooftop park, enhanced micromobility, and enhanced electric vehicle charging infrastructure. The adaptive reuse capability of the building has been thoroughly developed through multiple design iterations and will result in an easily convertible building that can evolve with the needs of the City over time. This resolution authorizes a change order in the amount of $640,000.00 (six hundred forty thousand dollars) to allow the continuation of design consultant services for the Mobility hub and makes the corresponding budget adjustments to the FY 2022-2023 budget.”

ALSO READ: Mobility Hub In Limbo, As Rising Costs Bring Estimated Price From $28.9 Million To Over $62 Million.

The City Manager went into a large pitch on why this is going to be a great project that will set Coral Gables apart, however, no mention of how this would be paid for. He explained they should be shovel ready in September. He stated they are seeking federal funding by clicking all the boxes, but was unable to state any specific grants. The Mayor offered to meet with Congresswoman Maria Elvira Salazar to try to secure federal funds for the project. Federal procurement must be done first, for that reason they haven’t broken ground. The Mayor asked for assurances that there will not be any more change orders going forward. The Manager only assured Gensler would not have another, no assurance of the project as a whole. The Manager stated he could cut back the project as a solution. The Mayor made it clear he wants he process as is.

Resident Maria Cruz addressed the Commission and voiced her concern over the financials of the project. She inquired on where the funds are coming from, as it shows the funds coming from Fiscal Year 2022-2023 funds. Finance Director Diana Gomez explained it was a typo. Had Cruz not asked, the Commission would have voted on this issue erroneously. Gomez explained that there are extra funds they can use for this project in this year’s budget. However, ever time a resident asks for assistance from the City or the Mayor or Commission ask for funds for projects, the Manager states there is no money. $640,000 would be enough to renovate or fix at least one City park, add traffic calming on at least three blocks, complete sidewalks on a few blocks that do not have them or cover the Mayor’s request for the grates in downtown and cover maintenance for two years.

She also asked about the market and total price of the project. Vice Mayor Michael Mena intervened and stated that there was no way to know how much the project would cost. She asked about the current construction market and City Manager Peter Iglesias told the Commission that “now is not the time to build.” However, he is actually pushing for the construction now. He also let slip that there are financial issues with the construction of Fire Statione 4.

Resident, Jessica Keller, addressed the issue of bicycle connectivity and bike lanes to the Hub. Following a brief discussion the Commission asked staff to start working on a plan for bike lanes in downtown with a price/study on connecting downtown, with the possibility of having new developments pay for parts of the plan, by the May Commission meeting. Commissioner Menendez and Anderson asked that business owners be included in the process.

Mayor
Vince Lago
Vice Mayor
Michael Mena
Commissioner
Jorge L. Fors, Jr.
Commissioner
Rhonda Anderson
Commissioner
Kirk R. Menendez
MotionedSeconded

I-6: A Resolution of the City Commission finding that there have been significant changes in circumstances and amending Resolution No. 2019-96 to eliminate the City’s deadline to break ground on a Mobility Hub to replace Municipal Parking Garage 1, to remove the previously-provided direction to the City Manager and City Attorney to negotiate with Coral Gables City Center, LLC, and amending the start date for CGCC ’s one-time right of first refusal, for a period not to exceed 25 years, to purchase the site where Municipal Parking Garage 4 is located.

The Manager stated that the project is ready to start within a month, but it is not in the best interest of the City to start it now. We are not capable of getting any federal funds if federal procurement has not taken place first. Approving this item would remove the deadline to begin work by September and start the right of first refusal all over.

Attorney Anthony De Yurre addressed the Commission on behalf of Coral Gables City Center, LLC. He explained that they were in disagreement and asked for a meeting with the City to show what they can accomplish in this space. City Manager Iglesias stated the City can start, but it is not in a position to do so. A play on words by Iglesias. The fact is the City cannot do this, as financially it would be a huge burden on residents.

Mayor
Vince Lago
Vice Mayor
Michael Mena
Commissioner
Jorge L. Fors, Jr.
Commissioner
Rhonda Anderson
Commissioner
Kirk R. Menendez
MotionedSeconded

Discussion Items

City Attorney Miriam Soler Ramos asked the Commission for authorization for her office to take any legal action including potentially filing a lawsuit against the tenants of the Coral Gables Country Club.

Mayor
Vince Lago
Vice Mayor
Michael Mena
Commissioner
Jorge L. Fors, Jr.
Commissioner
Rhonda Anderson
Commissioner
Kirk R. Menendez
SecondedMotioned

Appointments

Commissioner Fors Pablo Alvarez to the Emergency Management Division Board.

Mayor
Vince Lago
Vice Mayor
Michael Mena
Commissioner
Jorge L. Fors, Jr.
Commissioner
Rhonda Anderson
Commissioner
Kirk R. Menendez
MotionedSeconded

Vice Mayor Mena appointed Dr. Joel Callan to the Waterway Advisory Board.

Mayor
Vince Lago
Vice Mayor
Michael Mena
Commissioner
Jorge L. Fors, Jr.
Commissioner
Rhonda Anderson
Commissioner
Kirk R. Menendez
SecondedMotioned
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7 thoughts on “City Commission Recap (4/12/2022)

  1. If the commissioners do not fire Peter Iglesias and Miriam Ramos by next Friday, April 22, 2022, a petition to recall the commissioners must be started.

  2. The Coral Gables BID staff and board have worked tirelessly to advocate for the business and property owners regarding sidewalk maintenance and cleanliness. After many meetings with commissioners and city staff, the BID has suggested that the city manage a pressure cleaning service twice a year (preferably during slower foot traffic months) through either public works or a third party. This way, the cleaning of the new pavers will be uniform. Many businesses do not have the water access needed in front of their buildings, nor the equipment required. Asking each business to pay for this maintenance individually would be an inefficient use of small business operating funds.

  3. The 5 commissioners and the City Manager think they have the talent and experience to go big into the construction industry. They want to build a big garage, the Mobility Hub. They are 4 lawyers, a career politician, and an engineer in name only. None of them have ever been big in the construction industry. None of hem have ever built a big garage. .

    Because the actual building of a big garage is way over their heads, the 5 commissioners and the City Manager have made big, costly mistakes. For example, a builder comes with plans to the buyer. Here, the builder ( the 5 commissioners and the City Manager) have only plans. They have
    used the taxpayers’ money buy the plans. They paid over $2 million of taxpayers money to an architect for the plans. The plans keep changing. The plans are worthless.

    William Morris has two things going for him. First, he also has a strong legal claim to build on the garage property. He may sue the City if he is not allowed to build on the garage property. Second, he is an experienced big builder.

    The 5 commissioners and the City Manager should abandon their childish fantasy to get into the big construction industry and build the big garage of their dreams . Grow up. Stop spending taxpayers’ money foolishly. Let William Morris put up a structure that fits the City’s needs and complies with the City’s building and zoning codes .

  4. Is there really a pot of gold at the end of a rainbow?

    At the commission meeting, there was for the person who painted a rainbow on a slab.

    The City paid $700,000.00 for it.

    It looked like some pre-school kids had done it.

    But wait, there is more.

    The City also paid $100,000.00 for a slice of watermellon.

    Yep, they did.

    Obviously, the people who approved a total of $800,000.00 don’t work for a living. They don’t pay taxes. They just spend our hard -earned money like drunken sailors. Drunk, they buy junk. It’s junk because try to sell it to someone else.

    This is not a new happening. Remember the mechanical flowers on the roundabouts near City Hall? Real flowers aren’t the right thing to show visitors who we are.

    All I can say is the people who approved this junk live in a world of fantasy, divorced from the world of reality where normal people meet challenges and find joy, day in and day out.

  5. The 5 commissioners are not fit to govern the City because,

    First, a smart politician gives the community what it wants.
    The residents want to end the Mobility Hub.
    A stupid politician does what he/she wants. Like a king/queen over its subjects..
    The 5 commissioners want a fancy garage, the Mobility Hub, to spend another $640,000 on it.
    They, like the king/queen, got what they wanted. They are a bad example for the kids in this community.

    Second, the simple rule in commerce is first to ask the price before buying an item, small or big: gas at the pump, milk at the grocery store, or buying a car, new or used.

    The 5 commissioners didn’t use that simple rule. They are buying the Mobility Hub before they first asked the price of it. Plus, they didn’t ask a builder for a price. Instead, the stupidly asked for a price from architect (first, it was $28 million; now its over $50 million; next month who knows what it will be). The architect is the wrong person to ask. The 5 commissioners have turned things upside-down: first buy and later ask the price. That’s a very big costly mistake on a very expensive building.

    Third, inflation is running wild. This is the wrong time to buy an expensive, a fancy garage, the Mobility Hub. This is time to sit back and wait. The 5 commissioners are taking the City in the wrong direction.

    Fourth, the 5 commissioners think a $50 million plus, fancy garage, like the Mobility Hub, will be money well spent, because it will be the envy of every community in the United States. Coral Gables will be known, far and wide, for its fancy garage. Are they nuts?

    Simply put, the 5 commissioners are not fit to govern the City. Their incompetence has resulted in serious and costly mistakes. Who will pay for their big blunders? The residents, of course. They will pay more and more taxes.

    Hopefully, at the next election, people who know what they are doing will run the government. Not by a bunch of small-time lawyers lead by a tiny brain.

  6. I did not hear Director Hermes Diaz state that trees would need to be removed to install bike infrastructure on Valencia. I know for a fact it does not require any such thing.

    It is incredibly important that the Commission owns this so staff is not attacked. Staff currently have no incentive to address these issues for fear of attacks from the community. Staff have no incentive to solve the puzzle of how to connect various bike routes, like the Commission discussed today. If I was staff, I certainly would not be inspired to solve the problem; I might even say there is no solution. I suggest the City hire consultants, who specialize in bike infrastructure, to figure it out to take the pressure off of staff and ensure the Commission gets what they asked for today.

  7. If Director Hermes Diaz said the goal of Vision Zero is to remove cars from the street, he is mistaken (I did not hear him say that). That is not the goal of Vision Zero. The goal of Vision Zero is to reduce serious injuries and fatalities to zero.

    Commissioner Mena mentioned the lack of deaths but Vision Zero also captures severe injuries. The City is taking incremental steps to make our streets safer, and I acknowledge that. I was happy to hear the willingness of some of the Commission to act. I was happy to learn in 2018 that Mayor Vince Lago voted for the target of zero fatalities and injuries in the County as a TPO board member. Vision zero does not force people out of their cars – it makes those of us who choose not to drive and live a healthy and sustainable lifestyle safe. People who choose to drive still get to drive.

    The City touts itself as a leader in sustainability. Vision Zero and Sustainability work together. Making streets safe for everyone is consistent with the City’s sustainability goals. When it comes to actions, the City hasn’t taken the hard steps for REAL leadership. The City struggled to meet its own green code for the Public Safety building when it was decided to eliminate safe bicycling infrastructure adjacent to it and even made the decision to widen the roads adjacent to the Public Safety Building which runs counter to all safe streets and Vision Zero principles. Single mode, single occupancy vehicular travel and sustainability are diametrically opposing concepts. EVs are not the answer (they are PART of it) – they aren’t particularly sustainable, do not address congestion and do not address safe streets. We need to take action to eliminate severe injuries on our streets, so people feel safe enough to choose sustainable modes of transportation. To Commissioner Mena’s point there have been no deaths in three years, but the perception is our streets are dangerous and people will not choose anything but driving, doing nothing to support our sustainability goals. During the January 18th Transportation Advisory Board meeting one member asked the Board to endorse Vision Zero and another Board member opposed, stating it was a utopian idea. Helsinki with a population of over 500 thousand and Oslo with a population of nearly 700 thousand achieved ZERO pedestrian fatalities. A small town of 55,000 like ours can do this – we almost have! We can take the actions to achieve ZERO severe injuries and fatalities and move the needle on greenhouse gas emissions at the same time.

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