Council - Regular Meeting

I call to order the February 25th, 2026 city council meeting. It's approximately 5:30. Uh Mr. Clerk, call the role, please. Councilwoman Baskin, present. Councilman Leon, here. Councilwoman Pal, present. Councilwoman Wilson, here. Councilwoman Julian, here. Vice President Stevens here. Mayor Harris, I'm present. You have a quorum. Please stand for the invocation and pledge of allegiance.

God our father, we thank you for your grace. We thank you for your mercy. Thank you for the opportunity to gather collectively as a community. It is in this moment we pray for your knowledge, your wisdom, and your understanding to rest upon my colleagues and our mind as we prepare to discuss business that ultimately affect your people. It is in this moment we pray that you continue to bless the city of Miami Gardens, everyone that calls this place home, all of our stakeholders, residents, business owners, and God, we promise if you do all these things for us, we'll give you all the praise, honor, and glory that your precious name deserves. It is in your son name I do pray. Amen.

Amen. I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.

Mr. Clerk, do we have any minutes that need to be approved? Yes, Mr. Mayor, we do have before the council the February 11, 2026 um city council meeting minutes. All right. I need a motion to approve the minutes. Motion. Second. It's been moved and seconded. All in favor signify by saying I. I. Any minutes pass? Pass. We're now into order of business. Mr. Mayor.

Yes. I do have an add-on item um for the order of business. Add-on item number one um sponsored by Vice Mayor Stevens with regards to RUDG the Commons LLC. Without objection, we ask that it be placed on regular resolutions. That's item 12.1. 12.1. Any other items that need to be add, deleted, or withdrawn? Yeah, Mr. Mayor. Yes.

I want to move uh I have a special presentation 6.1, but Councilwoman Julian has two presentations. So, I want her to do the student presentation first and then I'll come and she'll come back after that. You okay with that? Which one is the student presentation? Which one is 6.2? 6.2. Two and three. All right. So, 6.2 go first. All right. That'll be 6.1. Then you could be 6.3. Thank you.

Any other items? Showing none. I need a motion on the agenda. Motion. We've been moved and seconded. All in favor signify by by saying I. I. Any opposition? Showing no opposition. Show the agenda passes. So we're now on special presentation item 6.2 special presentation of Black History Month art contest by Councilwoman Linda Julian. Councilwoman.

Thank you Mr. Chair and good evening everyone. Happy Black History Month. Who would have thought we would have been celebrating 100 years of black history founded by Dr. Carter literally 100 years ago. And so this month we this month we wanted to highlight black history in a different form. Um normally I'll have our students write an essay as part of my earn as you learn initiative to write an essay about someone who has made significant uh progress and strides in society that whom they look up to. So for this year, I decided that we were going to have an art contest. And so this year's theme is one this year's black history theme is 100 years of black excellence. And I see our school board member here, Dr. Gallon. How you doing, Dr. Gallon? Thank you for being here with us. Um, so this contest provides an opportunity for our students to creatively reflect on the history, the resilience and contributions of black leaders and communities. It is inspiring to see how our young people interpret black history, black culture, black movement as a whole and not just is something from the past, but as a living legacy that continues to shape our present and our future. And so at this time, I would like to congratulate the following students. And when I call your name, please come up to the front. First, we have So, this was super competitive. We went through tons and tons of uh art pieces and artwork. And just so you all know that the winners tonight, their art piece is going to be featured at Loud, Love of Urban Design, which is our version of um of Art Basil here in the city of Miami Gardens. And so their

artwork, their art piece is going to be featured at an actual show at the end of this year. And so I'd like to call up Olivia Atly from Norland Senior High School. [applause] I'd like to also call up Anthony Galinda from Miami Carroll City Senior High School. [applause] and Nehemiah Arnold from Excelsier Preparatory School. [applause] I want you to know that these students have demonstrated remarkable creativity, thoughtfulness, and artistic excellence. And their work reflects both talent and a deep understanding of the significance of black history, especially as as we reflect and celebrate Black History Month in its 100th year. Guys, if you want to turn your turn around so that the mayor and council can see your artwork, can you turn around for a moment? And so on behalf of Cat 5 and the entire city of Miami Gardens, I'd like to congratulate our winners and thank you for sharing your gifts with our community. We are incredibly proud of you. Okay. And so, do you have a microphone?

I need a microphone.

All right. So, I have a little surprise for you guys. And so, as part of my earn as you learn initiative, I think that art is a big form of civic life. It really is. And I truly believe that young people should be afforded the opportunity to understand social responsibility and hard work. And although the three of you are not at working age just yet, I would like to surprise you with come on in with a surprise. You all earned $100 each for your hard work on your project. I'm going to allow you all each an opportunity and I'll start here and if you can just tell us your name and the essence behind your artwork. I'm Anthony Galindo and my art piece is the different innovators. It was Lewis Latimer who made the light bulb, Mark who made part of the computer and a newer business being and Michaela made it. I made each of their faces into their inventions as to show the positive reinforcement that they made.

Thank you. So he's just represented a 100 years of innovation from back then up until the present day.

Good evening. Um, okay. Um, when I was a kid, whenever whenever I would go to a thrift store or an antique shop, I would like to go straight to a jewelry section because, you know, I like jewelry. And I would always see music box, but I would never with a ballerina in it. It will spin and play all nice music, but I would never see a black ballerina in it. And I said, "Oh, I wish I had a music box with a black ballerina. Oh, I can draw a music box with a black ballerina." And I decided what better ballerina to draw than the first premium ballerina Janette Collins. As you can see in my artwork, I kind of drew Janette Collins and why why was like I have me the box. This is really it's really pretty and pink at the heart. And I kind of drew a young black girl who an aspiring ballerina as you can tell from her little pink little top admiring her black ballerina her in her jewelry box and cuz she wants she wants to become a black ballerina [clears throat] pure ballerina. And in the corner we have Janette Collins where the spirit/ essence of Janette Collins kind of really proud because she sees a young girl who wants to continue on with her dream. And yeah, and so this was especi Yes. Give it up for her. This was especially inspiring to me because she made the point that whenever she sees a ballerina box, it's never showcased a black ballerina. And so this is what her art piece here is all about. Wishing that she could see someone in that box that looks like her. So thank you for your creativity. All right.

State your name. Nehemiah Arnold.

Nehemiah. And Nehemiah goes to Excelsier. And tell us about your project, Nehemiah. So, I drew um Harriet Tubman, Malcolm X, and Dr. Martin Luther King because every time I see their faces, it reminds me of how I can always dream and follow um my dreams. Y'all heard that, guys. This is our future. And as time evolves, we see that, you know, they folks are trying to erase our history. And while I understand that they're taking them out of schools and museums, I'm wearing it on my body and I got my Ruby Bridges shirt on because one thing I know two things for certain, they can't take it off of me. And it is up to us to continue to represent not just in the month of February, but every month and every single day because we will not be silenced and our stories will continue to be told. So guys, thank you very much and we are extremely proud of you. Merit council, if you'll join us in the front for a photo.

My presentation.

We're now on to item 6.1, special presentation by Councilman Reggie Leon.

Good evening, mayor and council. Good evening, audience. Um my presentation is to Dr. Steve Gallen. Um what we've accomplished here in the city of Miami Gardens. Um Miami Gardens as a whole with this council has worked very hard and strategic to become the city that we are. Uh we're all American city and with that encompasses a lot of stuff that goes on throughout this city. Dr. Steve Gallon has been lock step with the city of Miami Gardens when it comes to education. And I just want to take an opportunity. Will all of our principles please stand? These are all of our principles in the city of Miami Gardens. And without them and him, this would not be done. So I'm going to let Mario uh Mr. Clerk, could you please read the uh accommodation?

Accommodation. Whereas on behalf of the 113,000 residents, the city of Miami Gardens commend Dr. Steve Gallon the third for his visionary leadership, unwavering advocacy, and measurable contributions to the educational advancement of the student, families, and schools of Miami Gardens and District 1 of Miami Day County Public Schools. And whereas in 2016, Dr. Steve Gallon third, a life lifelong educator who has faithfully served as a classroom teacher, principal, district administrator, and superintendent of schools, was decisively elected the Miami Day County School Board on a mandate to improve student performance, strengthen employee working conditions and compensation, and expand equity and access to business opportunities within Miami Day County Public Schools. Dr. Galla established the district 1 student of the month recognition program to celebrate academic excellence, leadership, and character among students and founded the District 1 Black History Month Showcase, now entering its 10th year, highlighting culture, scholarship, student achievement, and the enduring contribution of African-Americans to the community and nation. And whereas Dr. gallon in 2018 su successfully profered a schoolboard item to improve teacher pay and enhance school safety and security measures across Miami day county public school which has contributed to nearly $2 billion in additional revenue dedicated to teacher compensation and enhanced school safety and security initiatives and whereas Dr. Gala has successfully championed and helped secure over $200 million in contributions in capital improvement projects within District 1, resulting in modernization facilities, improved learning environments, and long-term investments in the children and families of Miami Garden. Dr. Gall whereas Dr. Galla has become a respected national leader and influential voice in public education, equity, opportunity, and access, particularly advocating for una underserved and undervoiced communities, using his platform to champion policies

that expand pathways to success for all students. Now dare therefore Rodney Harris, mayor of the city of Miami Gardens, along with his colleagues of the city council, Vice Mayor Robert Stevens III, Councilwoman Katrina Baskin, Councilman Reggie Leon, Councilwoman Michelle Powell, Councilwoman Katrina Wilson, and Councilwoman Lind Julian do hereby celebrate Dr. Steve Gallon the third sign and the official seal of the city of Mgarn, Florida affixed here to this 25th day of February, 2026.

Mr. Mayor, I know it's customary that we wave our hands, but we ask that you wave that so we can applaud this Dr. Gallon and these principles and administrators for the work that they've done. I'm going to allow that to tonight because this young man and I have been knowing each other for almost 50 years, a long time. So, it is my honor to applaud you tonight here in the city of Miami Gardens. [applause] We going to let you speak. [applause] [applause] Thank you to the honorable mayor, the honorable members of the Miami Garden City Council, to the listening public, and to the viewing public. I've often said that in 2016 and throughout my life, I was blessed simply to be the conduit. God allowed me to be the conduit. Yes, I have the title of leadership, but I would not be here representing these accomplishments if it were not for the outstanding support and leadership that we have in district 1. So, I would like to as the conduit ask that the principles please come up and join me in this recognition because I'm just the instrument. God has allowed each and every one of you to do the work. you on the front lines in our schools with our parents, with our community members. And I would also like our region superintendent, Dr. Aante and her staff to just please come up and share with us. I I just want to say I'm deeply honored and humbled um Councilman Leon for this recognition. Um but we have not done this work alone. We are very fortunate to have brought District 1 um from the bottom to the top. We know that in 2016, District 1, which is comprised of Miami Gardens, had the highest number of F schools in Dade

County. In Dade County, we actually had one school that had five consecutive Fs. That school stands today here as a letter grade of B and several points away from an A. And 100% of our schools are A, B, or C with 75% of our schools being A or B. And again, this is a tremendous testament to the work of our teachers and of our staff members and and Mr. Mayor and to the council members, it's easy for me to say what we've done as a school district, but as indicated through the resolution, we work in partnership and I want to thank each and every one of you and your respect of places put for putting your shoulder to the will of this work for you, Mr. mayor personally reading to children, taking them on science experiments and involving them in different things that happen in this community. Councilman Leyon, your untireless uh dedication to the schools in our community. You have been a champion for the arts and supporting athletic programs throughout uh my tenure here. Uh Councilman uh Powell, your your commitment to health education, recognizing that to have healthy families mean we'll have healthy children and to have healthy children, children will learn better. Councilman, Vice Mayor Stevens, your your relentless dedication to our children and your commitment to education, serving as a speaker, serving as a host, serving as a sponsor in so many activities throughout District 1. When I look at Councilwoman Katrina Wilson, an educator in her own right. Uh you're always on the scene. You've been a sponsor and a partner in our Black History Showcase, and you're a strong advocate for those schools within your area. Uh, Councilwoman Julian, your commitment to the arts is evidenced today. You have been a champion for the arts and you have been unapologetic about that and it's been a pleasure to be a partner with you in those endeavors. And last, but definitely not least, Councilwoman Baskin, a fellow educator as well. You have carried the

mantle since you've been elected, rep recognizing that we need to celebrate those who are on the front lines, and that is our teachers. You have been relentless in celebrating our teachers, and you have been a tremendous partner in this work. So, I want to commend you all because we would not be here without your support, without your dedication, and without your partnership. So, again, with your waiver, I would like for us to be able to salute you as a council and as a city. [applause] We're going to take this photo, but I have one more special gift for Daddy Gallon. Omegas run the world, and omegas always take care of everybody. His [laughter] fraternity was founded in the same year as our fraternity 1911. So I also want to comm uh present you with this commemorative sign for your alma m and your fraternity.

Omega Sci-Fi Fraternity Incorporated. [laughter] Let them know. Say it like you mean it. Tappa Alpha. There you go. [clears throat]

Something in your throat, Craig. Don't forget to Dr. Scott, I know you said you had a hair appointment, so you're excused.

All right, Mr. Mayor Council, we're now on to item 6.3, special presentation. Hold on, Mario. Give one second. Let them exit the building.

[clears throat] Go ahead. All right. Item 6.3, special presentation of black excellence in real estate by Councilwoman Linda Julian. Councilwoman.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. And so as part of as part of our last presentation this evening, ladies and gentlemen, colleagues and residents, tonight we proudly recognize black excellence in the real estate industry by honoring a leader who grew up right here in the city of Miami Gardens, walking distance from this city hall as a little girl, who has worked whose work has transformed both the industry of real estate and our community. And so tonight, I'd like for you to join me in recognizing Miss Tanisha Williams. Tanisha, stand up. As CEO and co-founder of Elite Realy Partners, Mrs. Williams has led her brokerage to more than 850 million in closed sales in just seven years, earning recognition among the top 120 black brokerages by the Miami Association of Realtors. In 2026, she was elected to the board of governors of the Miami Associ Miami Miami Association of Realtors, reflecting her leadership and influence at the highest level. A board that both she and I serve on and do tons of policy work as it relates to the real estate and housing industry. And it's just such an honor to serve with you right here in Miami Gardens. Elite Realy Partners has facilitated the sale of more than 200 properties, expanding home ownership and strengthening neighborhoods and making contributions to our city's economic growth. I can't help but to think in the moments as we prepared our strategic plan and as we included NAB and included people who we know will help us continue this work and this legacy even when we are long gone. You and so many others are at the face of that. Through the Elite Heartwork Foundation, she continues to invest in our future by awarding scholarships and advancing financial literacy and we wealth buildinging initiatives for our youth. Miss [clears throat] Williams

represents excellence, integrity, and generational impact. And so tonight, I'd like to present you with a commendation because you are so deserving. Please join me up front. Mayor, council, this young lady grew up right here in the apartments right here, right around the corner from city hall. And oftent time we see folks who, you know, are I feel like the people who are constantly making the impact are the unsung heroes. And so, Miss Tanisha has poured so much into this Miami Gardens community and beyond. She is successful. She equips her agents. She has over 250 agents here in Florida and in Georgia, okay? And she equips them with the tools necessary to make sure that they know how to serve community and to meet folks where they are at, especially in underserved communities. You rarely find that because a lot of times real estate agents have the reputation of they want to get this deal done because they want the commission. She pours her heart and soul into every single transaction because no two transactions are ever the same. But yet she is just so humble about it all. So I as the council member uh she no longer lives here but she used to live down the street. So I am still your council member. I as your council member want to humbly brag about you because your work should be known. And so this right here is for you. And I know your husband, husband, wave. Hi. He grew up right here in the city of Miami Gardens. And although they are successful, often time you find that when folks do make a little bit of coins, right? They move out of the community and you know, they don't come back. You don't see them. They are super

successful but yet continue to pour into this very community that um played a role in their upbringing. And so today on behalf of our mayor Rodney Harris, the entire city council and uh myself I want to present you with this commendation. Congratulations.

Thank you. You know guys, once upon a time um National Association of Realtors did not allow people that look like Tanisha and I to serve as real estate agents, right? And as people of color, you know, we fought our way through everything. Whenever they told us we couldn't do something, what do we do? We go out and we create our own. And so, it is truly an honor to serve with you. And it is truly remarkable to watch you in your endeavors to see that you're not doing this for the fanfare, but you're doing this because you really, really care. So, congratulations. I want to invite your husband up here to take a photo with us. Yes, that's right. And I want to invite the mayor and council up here to take a picture with us.

You're welcome.

You're Did I say that they have the largest blackowned real estate brokerage in South Florida? Yes. And at this time, I'd like to call everyone who is here to support Miss Tanisha to come up for a group photo.

Well, she bought the village.

Y'all see this village? That's what I'm talking about. Hey, Madame President.

Fun fact, y'all. Tama, this is Tamika Moses, and she was the first black person to be appointed to as president for the Miami Association Commercial Board of Realtors in history. So, that's a big deal. [laughter] Come on, mom. WOULD [cheering] you like to say a few words?

I am so honored. I am so honored to be here. Hey, what's up, sir?

First of firstly, I want to thank you so much, Councilwoman Linda Julian, just for thinking of me. Um, you know, I've been honored outside of Florida, but lately I just said, God, what happens locally? And when you gave me that call and you thought of me, that means the world to me. Um, I used to live in those apartments in 2010. I graduated from FAMU and I came back and I moved to those apartments right across the street in those incomerestricted apartments with my daughter. So to be here, this is a full circle moment for me. Um, and I'm just so proud of my husband's family that has deep roots in Miami Gardens and so many amazing people. And without my elite brothers and sisters, there would be no elite realy partners. So I'm so thankful that we not only promote democracy in housing, but we promote democracy amongst real estate professionals. So we you now see so many black and brown faces selling real estate in Miami Gardens and Elite has the honor to contribute to that. So I am so thankful for all of you who have taken the time to honor me today. And Miami Gardens is a transer transformative city. Like we this city is on fire and it's because of the leadership that we are we are privileged to be amongst in the room today. So thank you all so much and this is an honor. Happy Black History Month. So you you guys staying for the whole meeting. No, I I I said that cuz you guys brought

a a bunch of people with you and I don't want to start the meeting and then you guys get up and and go out. So if y'all staying, that's fine. But if you wanted to leave now, you can.

Mr. Mayor, while they leaving, uh, I want to just take an opportunity. It's the first time my oldest sister has ever been to a council meeting. So, where's your oldest sister at? Kiza, I want to recognize my my oldest sister, my big sister that's here tonight. Where is she? She right there. Uh, come on up here. We might as well honor her, too. [laughter] [screaming]

Come up here and let let everybody see Reggie older sister. She is such a sweetheart, mayor. Such such and a wonderful prayer. I mean, prayer warrior. Such an incredible person. Thank you for coming. Come back again now. Come back and see us again. All right. Now, I need a moment of privilege. Um, I want to congratulate one of our own, Mario Batau. Mario has own earned the the designation of master municipal clerk. Oo.

And this award is awarded by the International Institute of Municipal Clerks and it's for your hard work and dedication to this community. And I want to just take an opportunity to say congratulations. So Mario, stand up and be recognized. We should clap. Mario is a master Municipal Clerk. Cam, leave Mario alone. [laughter] Lockition. Thank you, Mayor. And then the other point of privilege, and then we going to move this meeting right along.

I want to take an opportunity to thank my wife. We've been married for 35 years today. We've been together for over 41 years. That's all of our adult life together. And I find it robbery if I didn't say that I love her. I wish she was here tonight to hear me say this, but she would have gotten mad at me. And we've gonna we're going to move this meeting because we have a dinner appointment tonight. So, I'm going to move this meeting to get to my dinner appointment. Happy anniversary, mayor. Thank you. Happy anniversary, mayor.

All right, we're on public comments now, Mr. Clerk. All right. Um, citizens participation is governed by section 2-60 of the city of Miami Gardens code. Public comments are limited to matters within the scope of the jurisdiction of the city council. Each person other than members of the city staff who address the city council shall give their name, address, and whether the person is speaking on his or her own behalf, a group of persons or a third party. When in the determination of the presiding officer there are many persons wishing to speak on the same proposition the presiding officer may direct these persons designate a representative to address the city council rather than all members of such group. All speakers shall be limited to two minutes unless further time is given by the presiding officer. No person other than a city council members of the person having the floor shall be permitted to enter any discussion without the permission of the presiding officer. Order shall be maintained if any person makes personal, irrelevant, pertinent, or slanderous remarks, becomes boisterous while addressing the city council, or becomes too lengthy, abusive, obscene, and/or disruptive or otherwise fails to comply with the orders of the presiding officer and is declared out of order. The individual may be subject to removal by the sergeant-at-arms.

All right, council, let's govern ourselves accordingly. And the first person up will be Miss Sadra Wright and then Miss Gail Cunningham. And after Miss Cunningham will be Ria Hughes. And then Francis, you're after Ria. Take your time. Is right. Good evening um everyone. Um first of all, I'd like to say thank you um to the city council, especially my council woman Katrina Baskin. I'm sorry if I'm not supposed to name anybody, but I wanted to say thank you. I'm here to complain about the minor rehabilitation weatherization program and um the constant denials. I provided um documentation and I was denied. I um and on the 12th of February um I provided 15 additional documents. I was denied. On the 18th, I met with I'm sorry, on the 19th of February, I met with the um employees, the staff, and I went over everything, let them see the documents

and said, "Is this what you want?" They said, "Yes." I went home, I emailed 24 documents that they approved. Today I received a denial for not uh supplying requested documents. A lot of the questions, the requests were intrusive, but I supplied them anyway. I was asked questions like, "Why did you get 36 cent from CVS? Why did you transfer money from your savings account to your checking account?" I gave explanations. Apparently, this is some type of um impropriety going on. Um I spoke to Mr. Clayton. He said that he doubted if they asked me for 36 cent, but they did. I keep everything. So, I have all of that. And I am not trying to say that I should be singled out. I'm sorry.

Go ahead. Finish. Okay. I but I have been here for 68 years and if I meet the eligibility I feel like I'm entitled and I'm just asking for somebody to look look at it and see what's going on. I appreciate your time. Thank you. Thank you. Mayor I want if if I may mayor I I would like to also hear a followup report as to what is f what's happening um because I've heard that uh quite some time now. So I also would like to find out what what what's going on and see and how we can better uh create a better process. Um that is uh helpful. Mr. Manager.

Hi. Good evening to the DES charter members, all city department employees. Thank you for your service to our uniquely diverse city. When you acknowledge, receive, and you act on my emails, phone calls, and texts, it is greatly appreciated. Collaboration and transparency is vital. My boots on the ground enable me to inform, engage, educate, involve, enforce, and empower. Most of all, it enables me to learn more and I try to learn something new every day. and that gives me an opportunity to continue to try and be that necessary change in our progressive city. I also like to request being that we have professor Clay and the class of 21 citizens academy. It really made a difference in our lives and how we approach things. So if there's any way that you can reinstate the citizens academy, it is was and always will be very very important to our city and to the persons who actually live here, the residents. Please look at that again. It was very important. Class of 21, Professor Gre Craig Clay. Thank you.

Thank you, Miss Cunningham. Miss Professor Clay. Yes, sir.

Good evening. Reughes, 3335 Northwest 180th Street, Miami Gardens, Florida 33056. I just wanted to share food for thought. Watch your thoughts for they become words. Watch your words for they become actions. Watch your actions for they become habits. Watch your habits for they become your character. Watch your character for it becomes your destiny. What we think we become. Character and integrity [clears throat] don't define your actions. Your actions define your character and integrity. Thank you.

Thank you. Good evening, Mayor and Council. Francis Ragu, 889 Northwest 14th Street, Unit 102, Miami Gardens, Florida. I stand before you here this evening as the president of the Miami Gardens Neighborhood Watch, Inc., a 501c3 organization, often referred to as the Umbrella Group, which serves for the 12 and soon to be 13 neighborhood watch and crime prevention organization within the city of Miami Gardens. Our latest edition is Venetian Gardens which covers the Florida Memorial University for which that rape allegation that took place a couple weeks ago and that brought the community together in the formation of. That being said, for the last five years, we have undertaken which was an idea during Arbor Day was to plant trees in the city of Miami Gardens and that morphed into doing things for elderly seniors within the city of Miami Gardens. in terms of retention of the home when there's no one there to help. This year being our fifth anniversary offers some very challenging situation in terms of the funding and the necessity of the ages from between 80 years old to 98. One of the young lady that lives in a house that has no hot water, no heat, no kitchen. How she survived, I have no idea. But she is surviving and though it is outside of the realm for what we normally do, it's something that when you see and there's nobody to help and been living there for how many years? Incidentally, that was referred to us by former council person uh Lisa Davis uh who live uh person living in Scot Lake. Our 98year-old is there struggling on

the wheelchair and needed help. We as we find it's easier and as as the real estate professionals here will tell you, yes, Miami Garden is transformative, but the the price of the real estate, it is cheaper for us to help our seniors retain their property and stay where they are than to try to them to move on. That being said, I'll be sending each one of you our request to see for funding to assist these. And in closing, Mr. Mayor, I admire your outfit. I've been looking at it. Thank you. Beautiful as someone who love African God. Thank you very much.

Thank you. Martha and Mary Harold.

We got here very early to pass that in, so I don't know what happened. All right. All right. So, good afternoon, council members and Mayor Harris. Um, thank you for giving us the space to speak with you today. I am Martha Herel. I am the program director, co-founder. I am privileged to stand here with my twin sister. Before you guys finish, I need your address for

2940 Northwest 213 Street. I forgot I have a cheerleading voice. [laughter] I stand alongside my sister. She is the co-founder and vice president of Big Ideas. Throughout the 12 years of tenure that we've served in Miami Gardens ele I mean Miami Gardens we service over about 1,700 students throughout districts one two and three providing proudly funded under the 21st century community learning centers and the children's trust allowing us to deliver these services to our families at no cost. As former educators with Miami Day County Public Schools, 15 years servicing with Miami Day County Public Schools, our hearts are with our children, particularly those who are identified as frustrational readers. We are here for them inside of our afterchool programs. Big ideas is in our final year of funding, which makes it a very pivotal year for our organization. As we prepare for the next RFP wave in the political climate that we're in, we understand it is going to be a very

difficult

difficult challenge for us to become awarded through the 21st century funding. Today, we're just asking for the support of our community because we understand that we need to be more intentional in aligning oursel with the community to ensure that our program reflects the evolving needs of Miami Gardens. Building on that foundation, we are continuing to strengthen our literacy intervention while also expanding our STEM programming to developing to develop critical thinking amongst our students. Our goal is not just to help students catch up academically. It is to help them discover their potential to see themselves as innovators, problem solvers, and future leaders. We are here today to only share our impact, but to build partnership because lasting community success happens when we work together to support our youth and our families. Thank you for your time.

Thank you guys.

Any more public comments? Any written communication? Mr. Clerk, I saw we had one written communication. Yeah, Mr. Mayor, I did send written communication for this meeting over to the council. All written communication will be part of the agenda. We had one general written in communication and the other written communication was for one of the quasi judicial items.

All right. Showing no more public comments. Public comments are now closed. We're on to ordinance for first readings. There are none. We're on ordinance of second reading. Item 9.1, an ordinance of the city council of city Miami Gardens, Florida, amending article two, city council section 2-60, public participation of the code of ordinances provided for adoption representation repealing all or ordinances in conflict providing serability clause provided for inclusion code provided for an effective date. This is sponsored by the city attorney. This is a public hearing, mayor.

All right, public comments on this. I have two public comment cards, Gail Cunningham and Ria Hughes. Good evening again everyone. I have a few questions. My first question is when I read 9.1 and the information from last meeting, it indicated that the words that were taken for the decorum decorum as to what words were actually be looked into as a definition of if these things were in not not in accordance with what was actually happening in the actual chamber. And it was said that the words would use the definitions from Miriam Webster dictionary and black law dictionary. I know there are many versions of both of those dictionaries. So I want to know what words are going to be defined by what book and when will it be known to the public because we're the ones who have to make sure that we're behaving in the way with the decorum that is necessary. So I want to know what version of the dictionaries will be used. My second question is we are aware or I am aware not we I am aware that there are rules for the deis and there are rules for the people who are making the public comments. We have all the information about the people who are making the public comments. I've done my research and I've also inquired to about seven other municipalities to see where there's consistency. But I think as a a public resident that I need to know what the other side looks like, not just my side. I want to know what the other side looks like and what's expected. And I know that uh likelihood is from what I've read is that the deis is self-governed. So I've done a lot of research, but I just need to have more transparency and clarity on 9.1 how it came about. the word cleanup and I read

about that in the statute with the sunshine state law and sunshine law as to how that all comes about. So, just a little bit more clarity and transparency before we get to the point of what we can say, can't say, maybe moved out, may not be able to come back. Give us some more information. I need to know which dictionaries. Thank you. Thank you.

Reference item agenda 9.1. As I stated in the first reading previously 8.1, this item only addresses the decorum for residents and addresses absolutely nothing should you as council members fail to comply with the decorum rules. Yes, much cleanup is needed as it pertains to codes of ordinances within the city of Miami Gardens. As the residents wait for the sunshine meeting to be scheduled, referenced the February 11th city council meeting, I challenge council members to bring forth an amendment to include an equal civility clause which addresses decorum and behavior of both council members and residents, balancing the scale of justice for all. And lastly, to the residents, taxpayers, stakeholders, those in the chambers, and those home viewing this video, know that people don't have to run for office to dismantle injustice. But we must show up in our city council meetings where legislative laws are being proposed, enforced, or manipulated and demand that council face transparency, accountability, and reflect the people they serve. Thank you.

Thank you, madame attorney. Yes, Mr. Mayor. There are no changes to this item from first reading. So, if there are any questions from the desk, I'd be more than willing to Mr. Mayor, I need a motion on the item. It's been moved and seconded. Any questions or concerns from the DE? Yes. I I have one question. Um, as was addressed, could you give to the residents um the the statute or the citation for reference? There is no statute or citation for reference. This is based on case law. Okay. Do do you have the case law for reference to share?

No, I don't happen to have that tonight, but there's a lot of case law on the issue. Okay. Um could you uh at some time maybe just send it to my office and I will share with the residents. All the case law on public speak a few that we're we're I can give you the one that made us that that address. Okay. I've addressed what you're doing here. I will do that. Okay. Thank you. All right. Any other questions or concerns? Showing none, Mr. Cler, call the role. Councilwoman Baskin, yes. Councilman Leon, yes. Councilwoman Pal, yes. Councilwoman Wilson, yes. Councilwoman Julian, yes. Vice Mayor Stevens, yes. Mayor Harris, I vote yes.

Motion passes 70. We are now on to the consent agenda. I need a motion on the motion. Been moved and seconded. All in favor signify by saying I. I. Any opposition? Showing none, show the consent agenda pass. All right, we're now on to quazi judicial zoning hearings and Jenny disclosures.

Good evening everyone. Reginal White, director of planning and zoning. Welcome to the quasi judicial portion of the February 25th, 2026 city council meeting. For those persons that will or may be speaking on an item on the agenda or commenting on any item, please stand up and be sworn in by the city clerk. For the applicants for your item will be called to order by agenda number and by title of your request. When your item is called, please approach the microphone and when addressed, please speak directly and clearly stating your name and address for the record and explain the reason for your request. Please note that all exhibits presented to the mayor and council will become a part of public record.

All interested parties who plan to speak on both quas of judicial item, please stand and raise your right hand. Do you swear to defer that testimony you provide this evening is true and correct invest? I do. May be seated. Mr. Mayor, can I clarify? There's really only one quasi judicial item to be considered. Art and public places is amending our regular portion of our code. That's not quasi. But the the second item, the um the reasonzoning is the quasi. So is the 13.12 is the quasi? No, it's Oh, yeah, that one. Sorry. Yes, Mr. Mayor. 13.12 is 13.11 is not a quasi item. Okay. So, we just need to vote on that. We just need to vote on 131. Yeah. All right. So, can we do that first?

We're going to do that one. I got you. Um I need a motion on the Hold on, hold on, hold on, hold on. Let me read 13.1 into the record first before we start making a motion on it. Master clerk. [laughter] That's right. Item 13.1. You got the title. An order to the city council of city of Miami Gardens, Florida amending chapter 20 article 4 titled art arts and public places of the city of Miami Gardens code of ordinances provided for adoption representation repealing all ordinances in conflict providing serilly clause provided for inclusion code provided for an effective date and this is sponsored by councilwoman Linda Julian. This is also public comments on that item but with it doesn't it's not public comment because it's it's supposed to be on the resolution right?

Yeah. So there's no public hearing on this one as attorney says she's it's not quasi judicial. All right. I need a motion on the item. So moved. Been moved and seconded. Any questions or concern for the day? Showing none. Mr. Cler, call the role. Councilwoman Wilson. Yes. Councilwoman Julian. Yes. Vice Mayor Stevens. Yes. Councilwoman Baskin. Yes. Counciloman Leon. Yes. Councilwoman Pal. Yes. Mayor Harris, I vote yes.

Motion passes 70. We're now on to item 13.1.2 in order to the city council city Miami Florida approving the reszoning of that certain property located at southwest of 40 4200 northwest 167th Street in Miami Gardens more particularly described in exhibit Attached 2. from single family R1 and PN to heavy industrial I I2 and PN providing for adoption representation repealing all ordinances in conflict providing serial clause providing for inclusion code providing for an effective date and this is sponsored by the city manager Mr. Mayor. Yes. Can I go ahead and pull the council for Jenny disclosure? Yes, you can. Collectively, has any council member had any exparte communication on this item? No. Nope.

And collectively, will the decision tonight that this council make be based on evidence presented before you? Yes. Yes. Mr. Mayor, this is a public hearing on this item. I have a public comment call for Mr. Isaac Mickens.

Okay. You can check see if you want to still speak on that item. Uh, good afternoon to everyone. Good afternoon.

My name is Isaac Mickens. Uh, I live at 16300 Northwest 44th Court, Miami Gardens, Florida 3354. Um, I'm here to oppose the reasonzoning of the Elorado uh the the Elorado warehouse. They want to put they want to put it right across the street from my house. Uh, right now Elorado tow trucks, they come up and down my street. Brand smart trucks, they come up and down my street. I don't think they should, but they do. And on October the 4th of 2022, I came home from work. I had a citation on my fence for $500. Uh I let a friend park her box truck in my yard. Uh I inquired about it. They said, uh there's no warning for commercial vehicles. And so I just got a fine. I didn't argue about it. I brought came here and uh brought a company check and I paid it and I had the lady to move the truck to one of my properties down in Miami. But if the city of Miami Gardens feels that way about residences, then I feel like they shouldn't um put a warehouse right across the street from my house. Also, I'm in the process of maybe trying to sell my house. And if it's going to be a a a warehouse directly across the street from where I live, how's that going to affect my property values? So, I'm here to oppose uh this warehouse being built. Uh thank you, and I yield the floor back to the chair.

Thank you, sir. Okay, [snorts and clears throat] Mr. Manager, Mr. Mayor, Vice, I'm have Mr. White do a presentation on this. Thank you.

Yes. The item before you today is an Elorado reszoning item. And the request is to reszone the parcel that you see on the screen from R1 to single uh R1 single family to I2 Heavy Industrial. And the location of the lot is just southwest of 4200 Northwest 167th Street. What you see here is the zoning map in green. You see the development site. Total development site. The gross acreage is 421 4.21 acres. And this is an at great view of the vacant lot. This is a development site off of 44th Court. There here are some neighborhood characteristics uh around the development site. Uh views from 44th Court and 167th Street and 42nd Avenue. Here is another aerial view. To the north you have Brandmar USA. To the northeast you have the Elorado furniture store. Uh this is a store that uses store for wareh warehouse retail and showroom uses. To the south you have an educational center. And to the southeast you have the Miami Day County Public School North Transportation Center. Further to the south you have FMU. And here is the conceptual site plan

that is up for review today. With the site plan, roughly about half of the parcel will be warehouse use. The other half will be a combination of landscape paved area and for parking spaces. And the purpose of their request, their request to expand um is to hold warehouse spacing, parking spaces intended to support the loading and unloading and staging operations for the existing uh Elorado furniture store. And here's another view, a bigger view of the current site with also the development site right there. And what you see is a conceptual design. This is the vision that the applicant has for what it would look like in the future. And what you see here is a criteria that planning staff uses to determine if we're going to recommend approval of resoning items. And after review, the rozoning request is deemed to be generally consistent with the goals, objectives, and policies of the city of Miami Gardens comprehensive plan. Uh, it's recommended that the city council approve this reszoning item from a R1 to single family R1 single family to I2 heavy industrial. That concludes the city's presentation. Thank you.

Thank you, Reggie. Uh, let me have a motion on this item. Motion. Second. It's been moved and second. Any questions? I have a question. Councilman [snorts] Leon, you're recognized.

Uh, if you could go back to the slide. What would the I know we have a school over there. Where would the the traffic be flowing from? Which which direction is that? Coming where the school buses will be coming out. Would that be the same street that these trucks will be entering exiting the uh the property? So on 44th Court, there would be no uh additional entrances entrances or exits. So there will be no access to El Dorado from 44th Court. Um it will be a wall with landscape. That's one of our requirements. That's going to be one of our requirements with the site plan review. Um the from El Dorado, there's two locations. One on Northwest 167th Street, I believe. Um and there's also access on 44th Court. That's to the east. I mean 42nd Avenue. That's to the east. So on the east here, you see, see, you see El Dorado and you see some vehicles stored right there. They don't have an a real exit. They have to turn around and go [clears throat] out on 42nd Avenue. Currently, now they're able to circulate a little better on site and they can go a little further down on the development site. So through the chair the the traffic will come down 42nd Avenue which is consistent with the school buses and the other tractor trailers that are going in and out of the property already. Right.

Correct. It's consistent and that's the existing um basically traffic flow and there will be no added tra traffic flow or traffic volume on 44th court. Right. Thank you. Counciloman Wilson, you're recognized. Um my concern is is is m multiple. One one is lighting. Lighting. Lighting. Yes.

Lighting in that area when you have wide trucks and different things coming through there doesn't work. Um the roads are not wide enough already on 42nd Avenue as well as um when you move into the industrial area. Um near or behind where um um the school the schools are. And on on on other sites, like even in the industrial parks, which is where a lot of the trucks kind of enter into is narrow roads. And so when they're coming through there, you have so many cars that are backed up, you know, the the service road along the highway, those roads that are behind uh where Yurumbas is, the the the residents that are coming from there that are using those roads are finding it difficult. And I'm saying if you if if that if that factory is going to I mean um if the showroom is going to increase then that means there's going to be 10 times as much as much traffic. And when you have the kind of trucks that are passing through that industrial area along with the highway exit, which in the morning and in the afternoons, it's it's it's tough over there. And with those trucks, it doesn't it doesn't make for strong safety. The lights and the roads would need to be expanded to accommodate the expansion of use. You you you follow me? And and and again the lighting like when the time changes it's it's almost still dark at at at at 7:00 you you know and um the darkness in the area is already a safety

issue for the pedestrians let alone for the vehicles. So I I would be interested in seeing or knowing what kinds of other improvements to that area to accommodate the increase or usage that would would would be naturally a part of what they are building for right you follow me and I don't see that anywhere here and thank you for that comment and that was one of our concerns too uh one of the things we did not want to create any more accesses to El Dorado So 44th Court, we wanted that to remain the same.

Uh the only access that they have to 42nd Avenue, we were fine with that. Another reason why we were open to the expansion is that the existing building, uh Elorado, they're already using it for warehouse purposes. So that use is already there. Um and two, their expansion is just for warehouse purposes. So it won't be any additional showroom or retail space for customers. So, we don't anticipate with this resoning, this development project that it would have more customers. Um, it's just going to be for more warehouse space to support what already exists there. And in looking at the development site and looking at the site plan, I can really tell you that they're going to improve site circulation because right now they would have to go out back out. I'm sure actually on 42nd Avenue they're probably getting more u load on trans transportation and traffic issues because they're not able to circulate on their property. Um that's one of the site improvements on site circulation that usually helps those developments and help communities because those trucks don't have to back out into our main roads and that's what we don't want. Well, you know, like over at Costco, for example, more often than not, they don't receive any goods before or after a certain time in order to minimize the kind of traffic flow with with with regular people using that that area in addition to them receiving freight. Because if you have someone that backs out of a parking lot and those large trucks are backing out at the same time, the coexistence of those two types of vehicles is a nightmare.

I agree.

Okay. And [clears throat] so if they're if they're going to expand, then maybe what we would have to do is take a playbook from Costco. And that is that the deliveries can only take place within a certain window of time. Because if it does, then it increases the probability of there being some type of accident with those large trucks. And then it compounds the traffic. the traffic at five o'clock, the traffic at six o'clock in the morning, when people are carrying their kids, and on the weekends when when there there are lots of different things going on where the colleges is is is right there, the universities, both of them. You know, it's a whole lot of stuff that that could impact in addition to the number of events that we're going to have getting off of the Palmetto Expressway coming here into the city into the stadium. And then we have these 18 wheelers that are going to be out there. So, I think that we are going to have to take a look at how the compound of of of that can can just really create such a uh such a um I don't know like a not just an inconvenience but a congestion a congestion of the way the traffic and the and the the cohabitation of the varying type of events I mean varying type of vehicles that are used dur throughout the day. Um, it's it's it's it's it's already a very busy area and we have some liabilities in my mind that I think could possibly create greater harm to the average citizen that's traveling and um with the commercial vehicles, I think that that could be problematic. So I I would like to see a flow of traffic analysis and I'd also like to see how is the lighting in that area going to address these trucks if they are coming in let's say 5:30 6:00

what what what's the last delivery because 5:30 6:00 in the winter is Georgia black agreed um hold on one second Reggie before you answer before councilwoman uh Mr. Craig Clay uh is there or Mr. Manager is there any plans for infrastructure improvement in that area that as it relates to the lighting uh districts? I know we've conducted a number of traffic studies uh that we can address the council woman's uh concerns as it relates to infrastructure. No, we don't have any uh we have no plans in that area. No. No. Okay. May I vice mayor?

Yes. Go ahead, Mr. Manager, I I got you, Councilman. Go ahead, Mr. Manager. To Councilwoman Wilson, your points are very well taken. A lot of the information that you're providing now, uh, we can work with the development group. That's those are site plan issues that we can address during our site planning process. And so if you have additional information that you'd like us to take back, I know the development group team is here so that they hearing some of your comments, but a lot of the things that you're bringing up are site plan issues that we will address during site planning process and then get them an approved site plan with some of those things addressed on it and then they can that'll help them get to their permitting process. And and and may I add something else in there? Sure.

Can we get Florida Power and Light out as a part of that whole compound area? Because one of one of the things that I do love about that area is that is is that it is a a pretty decent industrial park. But when we are dealing with lighting as a reality of of safety, whether we have pedestrians on the street or whether we have business people doing business in their vehicles, you know, whether they're 18 wheelers or whatever the case may be, we have a serious mixture there that could be very dangerous to a homeowner who is saying for the most part. My grandchildren are coming and if the ball gets kicked out, then it's a it's a it's a dump. It's a huge truck there

and we we got a whole we got a whole another kind of a problem. You you you follow me? So, I really want to bring to the table everything that ensures that if El Dorado expands that the residents are safe, that the visitors that are coming in are safe. that we have timelines for certain things to operate and and and open and be effective and then for it to shut down so that families and visitors and tourists that come here they are safe. So, if Costco can say you can't deliver after our doors open, then we need to say there's a certain time when these residents are coming in and when the customers are coming in that these big trucks can't be everywhere. You know, I mean I I mean, am I being understood?

You are. You are. I hear you. Thank you. I understand. And we we'll ensure that FPNL is a part of this process. Okay. Okay. They have to be a part of the process anyway. But some of your concerns, we'll bring it to the development team and we'll talk with FPNL to ensure that we get

and and and just the last thing here. It's the same thing with the bus depot. You know, there's a certain time of the morning when those buses are leaving to go pick up these children and it's a lot of them that leave that depot. And so when that's when they're coming out in the morning and when they're coming back in the afternoon, it's a high volume of traffic. that flow is is is is is tough coming in. So th those types of things we need to analyze so that we don't have co-mingling of things that may increase the danger of something happening um or increasing to happen. Got it. Thank you're recognized.

Thank you Vice Mayor. It must not go unrecognized that a homeowner is here and is concerned about his home. When we are looking to reszone a property that was slated as residential, meaning homeowners to now commercial. And so I have a question through the vice mayor to the city manager um or the de um developing team. [clears throat]

what other residents will be impacted and has there been any communication with the residents so that there's some buy in we all want growth but I think one thing that happens with growth it's important to have buy in and I think the concern of increased traffic and safety as Councilwoman Wilson has addressed is valid especially not only just lighting but just traffic and I do believe we must grow and we must expand but with buy in. So if you could answer that question

Mr. Mr. Manager Reggie hold on you I'm defer to the city attorney. Clarify some things for the record if I may. Go ahead. Uh uh madam attorney, what's the future land use designation for this property? Commerce.

Okay. So the future land use designation is commerce. That's the that's the overall general broad category that the city council has already decided that that property falls into. We only have two. We have residential and commercial. It is currently zone residential. But the future land use designation is commerce. meaning that if a if a property owner owns a piece of property and they come to you for a reason and your standard is so high that you kind of have to follow what you've already said which is it's going to be commerce. So there are some things that you can do within that as far as that's what councilwoman uh Wilson indicated those types of things come when they file their application and we do the zoning process. Now as far as radius and notification we do a 500 foot radius.

Yes. um actually a half mile radius, a half a mile radius to each of the properties within it to let them know that we have something coming to the to the city council relating to that part particular piece of property.

Yes. And we also do two notices and we post the property as well. Um so it's a high mark the whole community they got notice of of the meeting and and the change that may be happening. Um and and also I want to add the zoning map if if you look at the map, most of that area is commerce. The future land use um the the R1 stands out a little bit, but most of that area is is mostly um in that block is mostly commerce as mentioned. We have two schools there. We have El Dorado and Brandmart there as well. And I I hear the concerns. I and I do understand that um he's only from a R1, but in this particular situation, we're not putting any undue burden on that that avenue there, 44th Court. Uh that's one of the reasons when we reviewed it, we that's we always look at that. Is it going to increase the traffic load? We didn't feel it would. Um we felt like it was increasing, I guess, the traffic flow on the site. Um but some of your concerns are are valid. The development team is here as well. Um they can answer any of your questions.

Councilwoman, you have any more questions? Yes, I have one additional question. Um the roads, which is one of the big concerns besides the lighting on the roads, and I think I heard um the city manager said that there are no plans for um the roads in that area. No, there's no plans. Not on 42nd. No. Okay. Thank you, Councilwoman Julian. You're recognized.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. Through the chair, to the city manager, just for clarification purposes. So, this parcel of land on the property [snorts] appraisers website is showing that it's zoned for industrial. It's clearly a vacant piece of land, piece of land, and it is owned by the Cappos. They own this this piece of property. the the capos are the people that own Elorado furniture and so this land that they are seeking to expand upon belongs to them and it is an empty piece of land. So let's just for the record this is their property number one. Correct.

However, they are seeking to change this from single family or one to heavy industrial. However, on the property appraisers website it is zoned as industrial. Is there a can you if I if I may the property appraiser sometime isn't correct that might be the future use but it the correct is the land use is commerce and the zoning is single family I I would just point that out. Okay. So this may not have been updated or it's already

I think what they're saying is El Dorado owns it so the use may be industrial. Um sometimes they're not always correct on that item. Okay. So then, so we're we're calling it single family,

but where it's it doesn't reflect that on the county's website. Um, so how do we know in fact that it is zoned for single family? Like what due diligence did we do to ascertain that?

Hold on, Reggie. One second. Uh, Mr. Manager, you had a question? No, I'm I'm I'm wait I'm I'm waiting for the question. I got you. Go ahead. Go ahead. So, how are we sure that it's single family? We have a zoning map that we keep track of and we're sure that that area is single family. So, we're ahead of the property appraisers is what we're saying. It's not that we're ahead. Sometimes the communication is not there. And I can tell you in in working with the county, sometimes everything is not 100% correct. Mr. Vice Mayor, can I ask? Go ahead, Madam Attorney.

Sometimes, Council uh Councilwoman, what happens is because the main property is in fact owned by they all owned by the same people, but the main property is zoned industrial, the county appraisers office doesn't recognize the distinction between the flow of the property. So, it's an error. Um, that's probably what happened because you have the rest of the property is already zoned industrial and then you have this piece of single family, but it's all under one ownership. So, sometimes it just it's an error on their side. Thank you for the question. But the future land use designation is commerce, meaning industrial. The planning, our planning has determined that that property should be a commercial piece of property in some way or another, not residential.

Thank you. All right. Is there any more questions from the Das? One quick question. So, sir, Councilman, you're recogn the the concerns that they have will be addressed in the second reading. It will be addressed through site planning. Okay. Yes. And then it'll come back to us. No, once you approve it, site, we'll make sure those those things are addressed at site plan. Okay. Um the development team is here. So, a lot of those things that you've asked for, we'll work it through. If they don't go through and they get approved site plan, then they have to they'll be held up. I'm sorry. So, site planning is after we approve it on second reading. That's correct. I got you. Okay. Let's call this No, no, go ahead. Councilwoman uh Wilson,

I'm confused. I what your question was is it coming back to us? Correct. It come back in a second. And so the answer you said was yes or no. Will will it come back to us for second reading? Second read. It will come back to us. Yeah. Correct. Okay. So now tell me what happens once we approve it. We'll take your comments Uhhuh. and apply in through our site planning process. Uhhuh. those comments. The development team will work with staff to ensure we implement those comments and prior to them getting building permits, their site plan has to be approved. That's admin that's done administrative and okay so the site plan is approved administratively

and then what happens when does it come back to us? After site plan approval they go forward for permit. So then that's what I'm saying. It's not coming back to us. It's coming back to you on second read. I mean, but when that's what I'm trying to find. Second reading would possibly be the next council meeting. Two weeks in two weeks is second reading with the next hearing. The next the next council meeting. The next council meeting. So second reading is the next council meeting and then after the uh site uh after the uh the site uh what's what what do you call it? The committee the DRC review committee.

Right. after you all meet, the administration will provide an update to that meeting. Right, Mr. Manager? So, they'll provide an update and discuss this property based off what was then indicated at tonight's meeting. So, all of the concerns, Councilwoman, that you raised and and everyone has raised uh the manager will meet with you all with us to discuss the process um before they move forward with site approvals and all of those things. Okay. So, that's an administrative function. Okay. So, just let me be clear about this, right? I want to be walk through this entire process, sir. Okay. Really? I want to be hands-on with this one. Is that all right?

I don't know what you mean by hands on.

In In other words, I want to know like what they're going to do about the traffic. I want to know about the traffic flow. I want to know if the concerns that I have put out here today will be addressed and how before it comes back here. That's what I'm saying. I'm saying that I want to know that the issues that I am raising as being issues of of of serious concern for me that I that when we bring this back that I will have been that this will have been addressed as as so presented tonight. As of the second review, we we will it can't be addressed during this process. It's addressed at the site plan review process. What happens is for all developments, especially new developments like this one, a site plan review um is required. In addition to that, a traffic study is required. So, we we have traffic engineers that we work with. um they would have to hire a traffic engineer and they would have to produce a traffic study that's acceptable to our traffic engineer. They'll review the number of trips uh the increase in traffic load on each street if there is one. And if there's an undue burden at that time, they would require certain improvements. Uh speed humps, those type of improvements, they will be required to if there's a stoplight, they're they'll required to put that in. I don't foresee that happening, but it certain traffic calming elements might be added to that review with the traffic study. And I can tell you that it's a very thorough process. A lot of our developers, they get tripped up on that, but it's a very thorough process and we make sure that the community is safe. There's no traffic jams. Um, and any improvements at that time, the developer would have to provide those improvements.

Thank Thank you, Reggie. Mr. Chair, can we allow the representatives of the company to come up and address some of the concerns? I think that's only fair. For sure.

Good evening. Bill Feffer with Bowman Consulting located at 1301 International Parkway, Sunrise, Florida. Um, we've done civil engineering work, planning work, traffic engineering work with Elorado and the Capo family for over 20 years. I've personally worked with them for over 20 years. every property they buy, they purchase, and they really establish themselves in the community. They're not some corporation that's located far away. Uh all of your concerns, we can address. I've been listening to them. We have enough space to do it within the site plan. We're going to work with staff to make sure that the the use is properly buffered. We have plenty of room to provide a landscape buffer, especially along the buffer where we uh abut the residents. We've got about 35 to 40 feet. So, not only can we do landscaping, we can do a raised landscape burm with a screening wall and uh provide more landscape planting than code requires so that that whole area is properly screened and they won't see any lighting. They won't see the bay doors. Um I did want to address traffic. So, the intent of this improvement is to optimize internal circulation for deliveries. It's not to add volume, add space, more deliveries. We're expanding the warehouse. This is a fairly old facil facility and our technology to be able to get shipments packaged and off into the trucks has evolved over the years and this site has not evolved. So, our intent is not that any trucks. It's simply an internal mechanism so the trucks circulate better internally and more importantly we package the shipments internally to the warehouse in a much more efficient manner so we can get them on the trucks and get them out. There will be no modifications to the traffic circulation offsite. We're not requesting any additional driveways. Um but we do hear all your concerns about traffic and we are we do have in-house traffic

engineers and we're happy to provide uh whatever evidence you need for that. but buffering, lighting, traffic, we can address all those concerns and we can bring some material for you at the second reading and then we'll work with staff to make sure that they're addressed. So, are you increasing the amount of space that you are going to be adding to your warehouse? Yes, but it's or so or or is it just a uh the ground level in terms of how those trucks travel on the property once they're delivering?

So, it's both. the the internal circulation of the truck patterns will change, but we're really adding warehouse so we can stage our shipments better internally. So, let's say we have a 100 shipments that get out on a particular month. The way it's gathered in the warehouse, staged on site, and shipped right now is a little old-fashioned. So, we're upgrading the facility to be able to do that much better within more warehouse space, which is badly needed. It's really to optimize the existing use so that internally we're not stepping on our toes as much as we are. It's not intended to expand on the number of shipments we're going to have. It's to meet the current demand of shipments and do it in a much more efficient way on site.

And so what are the hours of your your deliveries and when your trucks are coming in and leaving?

So I I don't know how this particular manager operates deliveries. I don't believe there's any current restrictions. Um, I do know that that is a hard thing to restrict on a business like this. Uh, as an example, if we condense all of the shipments to a very uh tight window, you could have a high volume of trucks that are trying to get in and out when if it was spaced out throughout the day, it may not be it may not seem as impactful. So, limiting the hours in in and of itself doesn't alleviate the traffic problem, but the intent is to make sure there is no additional impact. We want to mitigate all of our improvements so that there is no additional impact and I think we can meet that intent.

Yeah. You know, I understand that what I said was as an example of ways in which I've seen businesses kind of try to find ways so that they're not comingling what with a customer with a commercial vehicle, you know, but the real issue is I'm sure that there may be many ways that you could do it. The real question is can you do it? Will you do it? you know, and how could we ensure that we um achieve that as one of the objectives?

So, what we'll do, and again, because the Capo family wants to be a part of every community they're in, um again, we're not going to be increasing any traffic issues, but we can evaluate the traffic and if there's anything we can do on site to help mitigate that on site, um we have plenty of room to do it. And that's really what the intent of this project is is to modernize our internal circulation pattern for our deliveries because it's a little oldfashioned right now. So everything we're doing is to make it more efficient, not to dump more trucks on the roadway and surrounding community. That's not our intent and that's not how it'll play out. The number of trucks coming there now will be the same number of trucks leaving uh after the expansion is completed.

Okay. Well, for me, I'd like to see the solutions and the kinds of things that we can look at to ensure that it doesn't happen. Sure. Okay. And and and again, you know, one of the main things that we we we we are is that we are a residential community.

And the key is to protect those residents as well as as well as to make our place a place where businesses can be successful. It's also to make sure that we have people who've been living here like myself 40, 50 years that is safe for our kids who are going to college, for our school buses who are picking up our school age children, and that all of the traffic that's over in that area, which I drive every day, that we are able to ensure that that traffic flow is is is solid. So, it it's not only an Elorado issue, as I said, it is also a lighting issue. It's also a traffic lighting issue. It's a road uh widening issue. It's a lot of issues, and all of those issues, if they're not dealt with, is going to create hazards.

Sure. We're definitely committed to working with staff on them. Thank you, Mr. Kirk. Councilwoman Julian, yes. Vice Mayor Stevens, yes. Councilwoman Baskin, yes. Councilman Leon, yes. Counciloman Pal, yes. Councilwoman Wilson, yes. Motion passes 6. Thank you, M.

Now we're on to resolutions. Item 12.1, a resolution of city council, city mgard, Florida, authorizing RUDG, the Commons Retail LLC successor and interest to RUDG, the Commons LLC to assign all of its rights and obligations to the city of Miami Gardens with respect to that certain amended restatement and amendment of non-restricted mortgage and covenant and that certain amended development agreement as amended attached to is exhibit A and B to bunch part Sports, Inc. providing for instructions to the city manager and city attorney provided for adoption of representation providing for an effective date. And this is sponsored by Vice Mayor Robert Stevens the third.

Thank you, Mr. Clerk. Uh this item colleagues is uh it was brought to our attention a few council meetings back that there was a land uh that uh we have gave direction uh directives to our administration to go ahead and retrieve the land so that we can uh figure out what is next. Um but at this recom at this point I want to recommend that we uh go ahead and award this uh to give them the authority give the current uh company the authority or the ability rather to transfer the land over to the uh local nonfor-profit organization uh with uh hopes of not hopes but with the opportunity to build a uh hotel on the site so that we can continue creating opport opportunities and economic boost and growth in our community. Um, I do want to point out that in the event that the uh land is not developed, we'll be able to go back uh go back and uh retrieve it. Uh the reason why I am going forward with this process or I'm asking the support of my colleagues is because traditionally uh this is how it was done. not that it necessarily uh that I that I that I believe uh to give this local nonforprofit an opportunity to develop. So with that being said, I open for any questions. Dr. Pow.

Thank you. Um thank you for that clarifications. I noted um and maybe this um is a question for our city attorney. From what I understand, this they're currently the current owner um owners of the property has been from 2015 that they were supposed to develop this property. Is that my understanding? And that it was not developed and they currently are in default of the development. Correct. And they're actually under legal um I can't

Okay. What is their legal situation at this present time with the city of Miami garden? The current owners um you all previously authorize us to file a foreclosure action against them as it related to the mortgage that we have on the property and the well the mortgage. So that's currently we're in litigation because you all um authorized that. So we did file litigation. And exactly um how much are they in the hole now for that they have not paid on this property? Uh I think the total amount because it was bifrocated I think it's $420,000. Okay. So there

mortgage. So my understanding so now approximately $420,000 and the X at this point is to now abolish that litigation and transfer if my understanding is correct the property to new ownership but not address the foreclosure and the outstanding money owed. Is that correct? As I understand the request, it's to it's to transfer any rights and obligations under that mortgage agreement and developers agreement to new owners. Yes. So then the new owners would be responsible for. So does the new owners,

just to be clear, it's not a mortgage like a typical mortgage that you think of that you have a monthly payment on. The mortgage was to secure that we get development. It wasn't it's not a mortgage that they pay, you know, monthly. Sure. So our our point was to have a commercial parcel developed. So we would is so the foreclosure was because the prior owners had not developed commercially. So what the vice mayor is saying that is that um he's recommending that we transfer it to a new team and that prayerfully or hopefully though the new team will be able to get a commercial parcel developed but we will maintain our rights on the property.

Correct. cook. So then my second question is um the process of just selecting and reassigning it to this organization without opening up the property now for any additional nonprofit organization who might be interested in the property. Um and so um are is this group here to speak on their desires for this property and what they plan on doing with it and how they will remain timely because the issue was timeliness and how we won't be back in the same situation from what was it 2015. So now 10 eight years later. Um, is there a representative or someone to speak on it? Because we've managed to allow a company to go over almost eight years without executing on what they've asked, at least was said they guaranteed they would do.

Yeah. And we are now have a company that says yes, we will do it. And of course, there will have to be negotiations and contracts rewritten. But um, how one, why are we not going to open this to any other person to our company? And two, um what are their plans? And I I would love to hear just just for me personally what this new organization timeline and plans are.

Yeah. Uh well, the organization representatives from my understanding is not present, but I will uh speak on behalf of them being a trusted organization serving our community, serving our youth and our community as well. So I am confident uh that they would be able to execute. Um but this also gives the the city administration will still be in full process and the execution and the planning of what this what is developed on that particular property. Um just as well as we were able to bring it back to us. We that that uh time frame was before you and I uh before we got in office. Um so now that we're here we can ensure that we keep it on a timeline in which we would like to see the development happen along that corridor um within that with that falls into our overall master plan. So that corridor if I'm not correct uh uh mistaken Mr. Manager correct me falls into our overlay entertainment district which means there are uh certain things that can be developed that falls in a line with the overlay entertainment district. Um, is that correct, Mr. Manager? Yes, sir.

Okay. So, to your point, Councilwoman, I I I hear your concern as it relates to the organization, I uh I've had conversation um and brought it before to uh based off their work that they've done in our community throughout our parks and working with our youth um and believe that they have the ability uh to to to do it. Um and our city administration, the city still remain keeps the rights to the all rights. Nothing of that changes. Um we're just uh at this point uh awarding them the the giving the authority to the current lease holders uh uh mortgage holders to transfer it over to a local nonforprofit uh to uh to to develop on. and the selection of this nonprofit is is how how did that process occur?

Yeah, it was based off my recommendation as a council member. Okay. So, you're affiliated with this organization. I'm not affiliated. I I mean, you're aware of that. Not affiliated. Yeah. Let be clear. No, I'm not affiliated with the organization, but I'm familiar with their work. That is correct. Yes, ma'am. Okay. Understand. Any other questions? This is for a housing development. This is commercial. So this would be re hotel fall into commercial correct all hotels. Yeah, it does. Yes. Anyone else? This just a comment, council woman. Um so so how the the other group had it for how long?

Eight years. Eight years. Um, you know, the reason why I I just take it a little bit slow is just like right now when when when we were elected, before we knew it, it was co

and co shut us down. It shut us down. Transacting business was extremely difficult. Schools, just the whole nine yards. And I think that it, you know, even after co, it's been difficult for people to get their footing. you you know. And so when you when you come into a a a situation like this, it it it it kind of you kind of have to have some leeway when it has a historical process of being able to to go in and and and look at the things that may have created obstacles for it to move along in a way that they initially anticipated. And so, um, I think trying to give it new life, you know, um, to bring in anything that can help the corridor of where we are looking at to become our area and to expeditiously get that done. To me, that's the biggest issue for me. Like, I don't want this to be anything that takes another 900 years to get done. But I would like to see like our corridor that that that that we are anticipating over in in in the area over here that all of that begins to blossom and and light itself up. And if this can do so, then the only thing I would say is put a time limit on it.

For sure. put a time limit on limit on it and put some type of um um deliverables that that really help us to be able to monitor how it's moving along. You that that would be my my only thing and I think helping non forprofits and other organizations like that to be able to do it um is something that I can I can get behind. I get you. Thank you. And that and I agree with that uh recommendation. Councilwoman, is there any more comments, Mr. Mr. Clerk. Um, I need a motion and a second. Can I have a motion on the item? So moved. It's been moved. Second. Mr. Clerk, call the role. Oh, sorry, my eyes. Councilwoman Pal, yes.

Councilwoman Wilson, yes. Councilwoman Julian, yes. Councilwoman Baskin, yes. Counciloman Leon, yes. Vice Mayor Stevens, yes. Motion passes 6. We're now on to the reports of the mayor and city council. Thank you, Mr. Clerk. By way of request, I'm going to recognize Councilman Leon, and then we'll fall in uh line on our normal uh order process. Councilman Leon, you're recognized.

Yes. I want to take an opportunity to invite everyone out to uh the ribbon cutting ceremony for our infield housing program. This was a program that uh the county actually uh has the infield program. We brought an item, I want to say about four years ago. I I brought an item to this council to be able to help uh Bill Holmes. Thanks to uh our city attorney, we had some funding for uh a lawsuit against uh a company for unfair housing practices. So, we took those dollars and we started to partner with Commissioner Oliver Gilbert's office uh with the infield laws that he have. We've been building houses, creating home ownership in Miami Gardens. So, people went from renting to owning and um you know, we're one of the first councils to actually build homes. Um I want to thank the city manager, deputy city manager. Uh without them, this would not be possible. So, we have another house that is complete. We have a tenant going into this house. She's a um graduate of Miami Norland. She works at the post office, single mom of three, born and raised in Miami Gardens, was renting in Miami Gardens, now has an opportunity because it's council to own in Miami Gardens. So, that'll be March 2nd at 10:00 a.m. Uh, the flyer circulating. So, that ends my report. Thank you, Councilman. Councilwoman Julian, you're recognized.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. I'll be brief. Uh this weekend I'd like to invite you all to join us for our fifth annual Miami Gardens Youth Youth Music Festival from 2 to 8:00 PM happening at the Bett Betty T. Ferguson Amphitheater. This is something that I started when I got elected here in the city because I truly believe that art is essential to civic life. And so we put put put on this performance a week uh always a week before Jazz in the Gardens and it's a great way for our students located within the local area throughout our public schools to showcase all of their talents. So there'll be singing, there will be dancing, students will be playing various instruments and it's usually a lot of fun. So if you've never been, I encourage you to join us this Saturday. And if you've been, I encourage you to come back. Um, you know, I'd like to take a moment to acknowledge two members of our community who have recently passed away. Um, you know, every day that I wake up, I I try my best to do good in this world and I try my best to be nice and gentle and compassionate to everyone that I encounter because I know that every day that I wake up, that's one less day that I have here on this earth. That is just the reality for all of us and scripture tells us that we don't know the day nor the hour. Uh many of you are familiar with Yurumba restaurant and so we lost uh Chef Danny a week ago from Yurumba restaurant. He and his father uh both owned the establishment and we want to keep their families lifted in prayer. Uh simultaneously a few days ago, we also lost Brother Greg. Uh many of you know Brother Greg. He used to always be at the Waw Wa. Every time you saw him, he had a great word. He had a great message. Just so full of so full of life

and just a great human being. And so we want to keep his family lifted in prayer. Mr. manager. I want to tell you that when I reached out to his wife to express my condolences, the very first thing that she said to me, she said, "You know, I'm in this I'm going through this time of bereiement." But she says, "I feel like I'm a part of the Miami Gardens Police Department family because of the way that the chief and the sergeant has embraced me." She said, "Miami Gardens police has showed us so much love and they showed how much they loved my husband, sharing photos and sharing, you know, videos and messages and talking about how whenever they would go to the Waw Wa, they would encounter Brother Greg." And so that did my heart well. And she indicated that that's what's helping her through this process cuz she knows that she is not alone. She also mentioned Claudia from the police department. Mentioned her by name. And you all know me. Listen, when folks compliment, I'm going to share that because this world is so full of ne negativity and it's so easy for people to complain every day and to be negative. And so when people shed a positive spotlight on what we're doing here in the city and on in and within our staff, I'd like to highlight that. And so, please keep that family uh those two families lifted in prayer. And um I just want to say that I'm grateful to be here in the city of Miami Gardens and I'm grateful to work with my colleagues, grateful to my residents, those who hold us accountable, those who fuss us out, you know, those who have become family, and just take a moment just to be kind to one another. And that ends my report.

Thank you, Councilwoman. Councilwoman Baskin, you're recognized. Can you come back? I can. Councilwoman uh Wilson, you're recognized.

Um yes. Um we will um have um meet me Monday, March 2nd. Uh it won't be on March 9th as printed. Um it will be held at Walt Frasier Park at 6 PM. Please note to all of our um residents that have sign signed up for your jazz tickets, we will have them there for you to pick up at the meeting. If you have not signed up, then we won't you won't have no Okay. Okay. Um Leslie Estates, our Leslie Estates meeting for Leslie Estates number four will be held this coming Saturday from 10 to 12 in the Miami Gardens City Hall community room. Um, we will be talking about what it's going to take to get your streets fixed. It's an HOA meeting. We are in the final final stages. Please make sure that you are present so that as we do the next two meetings, we will be able to begin work and hopefully have um groundbreaking on your streets. So, please again, Leslie Estates number four on um Saturday here from 10 until 12. And then the Voices of Freedom talent audition for um our annual Junth celebration will be held this Saturday, February 28th from 12 until 6:00 p.m. We have had um a couple of hundred people to sign up to be a part of our Junth celebration. They will be auditioning for a place in in our in our um presentation. So, if you're interested in coming out and and and witnessing the tryyous, please join us at the senior center. Um, we will be there again from 12 until 6:00 pm. Um, and then finally, Arts on the Road. We partner with Adrian Arts annually for them to when they have their Gospel on

the road uh presentations and they will be with us at the Betty T Center March 29th from 5 until 7 and we will have um be featuring the wonderful Mount Pisca Mass Choir uh who will be there hosting um will be Mr. Celeste, I mean, Sylvester Britain, Deanna and Sarah in Harmony, and the New Sounds of Joy Ministries. We will also give out 100 food vouchers. So, you may come out and have lunch with us for a little bit and just enjoy the sounds of music and the pleasure that you will have the Mount Pit uh Pittsa Choir. It is I'm sorry. It is a wonderful sound. Forgive me for for messing that up. You all right? You ready? A little bit longer. Okay.

No, you don't have to go longer. No, I'm not going to go longer. But I'm just saying sometimes people need a little time. Yeah. Yeah. We'll get she going take We have to be patient. That's right. No, no, she could. I'm going go to Dr. P. Yeah. Yeah. you know, you [laughter] but let me say that uh that music uh event with Adrian Art Center every year, Councilwoman, I believe I've attended and it's always been an amazing experience and our youth uh is uh has always been an amazing experience as well at the uh with Councilwoman Julian. Councilwoman Dr. Pow, you're recognized.

Thank you, Vice Mayor. Well, a lot has happened this month, even though it is the shortest month, and it is Black History Month. And um it's been a pleasure to um actually kick off last week the first and continued Remembrance Day for the motorcycle queen, Bessie Stringfield. It was an amazing event as we named her the street for Bessie Stringfield, the motorcycle queen last year. And this year we held at Bunch Park the commemorative um motorcycle ride. And I have to give shoutouts to people who made that event so great. There was over 150 motorcyclist there as well as um support from I got to say thank you to Peterson's Harley-Davidson who was also celebrating their 72nd anniversary. And we started at Bunch Park and ended at Harley Davis. And if you might have heard or seen all the bikers going by. In addition, I have to thank um Sergeant George who's and the Miami Gardens Police Force who came out to um be our escorts along the way from Budge Park to the um Peterson's Harley-Davidsons. And thank you very much Bunch Park um team. Um everyone just we got when people come from out of town, all these motorcyclists that came, they came from all over Florida. But we had people from New Jersey and California and everyone had wonderful positive things to say about Miami Gardens um being here and all and how they were treated. Also like to thank um Derek Baker in public affairs because he memorialized the event and we actually were featured on um channel 10 for the event. um talk with the doc um went off yesterday and there's some questions and I just want to share some of the things the individuals that were there asked and

had the opportunity to get some answers that I think some people might find helpful. Um Captain Quintanu was there and code enforcement um Mr. DVA was there and they teamed together to answer the stray dog question and the stray chicken question. If you've seen them at Wawwa, if you've seen them running around your yard, those stray chickens, well, they answer the question and uh if you weren't there, the simple answer is who's are they? code enforcement said they it we have to identify the home otherwise they're the city of Miami gardens chickens um as an aside but if you do have a animal that is aggressive or appears to be aggressive the number to contact they gave was 888311 Dade 888311 DADE now of course and we was clarified with Captain Q If they attack, if they are violent, if they touch, that's a 911. Don't wait, don't hesitate. Dial that 911. And so, it was great having both code as well as um uh Mr. um Captain Q there. We also had questions concerning, well, I'll get to that one. Um a newly hired assistant director was there to talk about our trolley, and thank goodness we got information. trolley is being updated, the roads, the streets, the signs, data, all that is being updated and um additional um resources are going to align what's on the map, what's on the app with what's posted um for the future. And the last um discussion, and I guess um I'll get some more information from attorney. One of the questions that came up um that we

had a a discussion about was the scooter riders. Um, and I don't know if you've noticed, they've been across the street, in the street, um, sometimes on sidewalks, nighttime, and so there's concerns about, and we'll talk, um, hopefully, um, at a future date, um, city attorney, that we can give some more information of what kind of regulations are there because people are concerned about safety as it relates to the scooters going in and out of traffic as well as on sidewalks. And finally, guys, guess what's coming? Boxing in the Gardens on the 19th of March. We have [laughter] we have a safety and training for teens and families, all ages. Um it's a free training on the 19th starting at six o'clock. Um the children will be getting a certificate for participation. And on the 20th, 21, and 22, we will have our first um Boxing in the Gardens uh which will be held at Bunch Park. And if you don't know, March is Women's Month. And so for Healthy You on the 4th, join me at 1:00 where we'll be discussing some health issues for women. And to round off the month of February, the tip of the month for February, eat like you love your heart.

I love it. Report. Thank you.

Thank you, Doc. Uh I'm going to come back to you, council. I'm going to give you a little bit more time. Okay. Uh but I do want to uh because there's so much going on. Um and my colleagues and I, we we keep our city staff extremely busy. So, I just want to pause for a second and commend our city manager's office and his entire team, our city attorney office and her entire team, and our city clerk and his entire team. You all do an outstanding job on a daily basis. Um, some of you all are working weekends with us. I mean, when you look at this Saturday, we have events that's starting as early as 8:00 a.m. and ending as late as 900 p.m., but you all are there working with us and and dealing with us. So, I just want to give you you all your kudos. And uh to Professor Clayton, thank you. [laughter] [gasps] Thank you for uh Craig Clay um our our our deputy city manager. Thank you for uh leading in such an amazing way when it comes down to our finances and keeping our city afloat. Um I meant to mention it at our last council meeting. M manager, I was so uh happy to hear that you and your team was able to submit a good report uh get a report back from our uh state as it relates to no findings uh from our uh what which office is it?

The Doge office from the state. No findings, which is a testament to the work that you all do on a daily basis and keeping our city afloat. So, thank you, Mr. Manager, our deputy city manager, and your entire team for the work you all do. Um, very quickly, I want to remind everyone that the Miami Gardens Dream Scholarship is open. Um, the deadline is Friday, April 17th. Y'all please share and get uh residents to apply for this scholarship. On Saturday, February 28th, we'll be having the closing ceremony for the Miami Gardens Fitness Challenge. Um, so please come out, be a part. If you have been participating in the fitness challenge, we'll be awarding and crowning the top three individuals that have successfully completed the challenge and have made major strides in multiple uh categories. And then later that evening, we will be having uh Oh. Yes. Later that evening, we'll be having uh a community night of jazz uh located at the Pomelo. Everyone is invited to come out and have a good time. We have jazz artists throughout the entire night um at the clubhouse in the Pomelo community which is located right outside right behind the Starbucks. Um right and the Starbucks is parking accessible for everyone. You can come out, have a great night. It's a great evening. um come out and experience a strong end to Black History Month leading into a strong start into our Jazz in the Gardens music festival. So y'all get excited about Jazz in the Gardens and all the great things that we have happening. You go, we're going from Broadway in the gardens that Councilwoman Abaskin uh so eloquently speak about and then boxing in the gardens and all these great things in

the gardens, scholars in the gardens and and Junth in the gardens and what what's your music festival councilwoman? Miami Gardens youth music festival in the gardens. So uh kudos to all of uh the great work that we all are doing to build stronger communities. Those are all events, a karaoke in the gardens for Councilman Leon. Those are all great events to build strong communities. So, with that being said, I'm going to yield uh the rest of my time to Councilwoman Baskin if you're ready. All right. Councilwoman Baskin, you're recognized.

All right. I just want to um invite you all out, as Vice Mayor mentioned, to Broadway in the Gardens, which will take place on Friday, February 27th, 7:30 p.m. at Florida Memorial University. It is a Broadway caliber black history production. Um, you will see displays of the black experience from being in Africa as kings and queens, the middle passage, the realities of slavery and the Jim Crow laws up until present day and the struggles that we as African-Americans are still facing. So, it is a production of local talent, um, individuals born and raised right here in the city of Miami Gardens. It is directed by FAMU um alumni Yanell Aris. Beautiful, beautiful production. I want everybody to experience it. No VIP tickets are left. We do have a few general admission tickets. And it is on my heart that if you desire to go and you have not yet purchased a ticket, you are unable to purchase a ticket. Please see um Cassandra at the end of the meeting and we'll make sure that you receive a ticket. That's how important this is and that to me and how important um I believe all of us should be able to experience this. So make sure you are in the building if your schedule is free Friday 7:30. There's no other place to be than Affordable Memorial University with us. That concludes my report. Mr. Mayor, Mr. Vice Mayor,

thank you. Councilwoman Kat um Cassandra, wave your hand so the residents know who to see. [laughter] Oh, and I'm I'm sorry. Vice Mayor, one more thing. If you come, you cannot get in the doors unless you have on African attire. I'm just joking, y'all. But my It will make me really, really happy to see everybody. Absolutely. Absolutely. Master uh manager, you're recognized. [laughter]

Wow.

Mr. Vice Mayor, council members, I just have a a couple things. one, I want to congratulate Mario on his international recognition. Congratulations again and u thank you. I also want to make mention to the council members that on March 18th uh our city attorney along with our deputy city manager will be a part of a panel discussing the property tax issue coming soon to the state of Florida. Uh both of them are on the panel. I think the city attorney is the moderator and uh Mr. Mr. Clay is the expert witness to present [laughter] the information um at this event. So I just wanted to recognize the fact that our deputy, our city attorney, and our city clerk are doing great things in our community and and where will it be?

I thank you very much, sir. Manager, where is this going to be so we could all show up? Oh, hold on. [laughter] I said I sent it to you, council woman. You should check your email. The uh information I have it right here. [laughter] Wow. Yeah. I don't have to register, but I'm going to tell them where it is. It's at the 94th Aeros Squadron, 1395 Northwest 57th Avenue, Miami, Florida, March 18th, and it begins at noon. Um, Sonia Dickens, Craig Clay, Vicky Mendes, and Roger Powell are the panel panels. That's my That's my report. Thank you. [laughter]

Thank you, Mr. Manager.

I'm gonna get him. Don't worry. [laughter] I'm gonna get him. I don't really have a report. I do want to say congratulations to Mario. You know, I remember when Mario started in this clerk game. Uh, he's been [snorts] in it for a minute. I'm so proud of you. Thank you, Madame Attorney. The internationally known [laughter] the master city clerk, Mario Batai, you're recognized. Well, before you speak, let me just uh echo the mayor's comp uh uh uh comments earlier. We're extremely proud of you. Uh you you not only serve as the city clerk, but you have a a very important responsibility, and that's to manage the council member staff. um which is not an easy task um but you do it with a smile on your face every single day. So congratulations, we appreciate you and you can have Friday off.

How about that? [laughter] So So that means I can turn off my phone. Oh, I can. Okay. Okay. For the vice mayor, for the vice mayor, you can put him on do not disturb. [laughter] All right, I'll do that. I'll do that.

You're recognized, Mr. Clerk. Mayor, City Council, first and foremost, I I appreciate you guys. I appreciate every member of this council, current members, past members for the continued support, the continued motivation, the continued challenge. Um, to the charter officers, you know, y'all knew me when I was a baby. So, I appreciate you guys and your support and your guidance with everything. to the department heads. Um, one thing I'll say to all the department heads staff here at the city, one thing that we do here in Miami Gardens, you guys have provide a lot of information to me. So, it allows me to go to these conferences, as the manager says, these international conferences, and share some of the stuff that we do here in Miami Gardens and a lot of things we do here. We're we're really trends setters. So, I appreciate working with all of you guys. and to the city clerk staff, the legislative analyst, I appreciate you guys. You guys are my buffer between my bosses and I appreciate everything [laughter] that you do. To the deputy city clerk, Lashar Bostic, the assistant city clerk, Michelle, I appreciate you guys, too. You guys push me and motivate me to be better every day. So, thank you all. And to the residents, can't do it without you guys. If you guys didn't vote for this city in 2003, I wouldn't be the person that I am today. I wouldn't be the city clerk to this city. And most importantly, I wouldn't be the father that I am to my two boys. So, I appreciate the residents of this city who made that vote and made this city a city. Thank you.

Look at you sounding like a master city clerk. [laughter] Even though you need a motion. Go ahead. Even though you spend more time with us here than you do with your boys, we truly appreciate you. [laughter] I need a motion to adjourn this meeting. It's been moved and second.