City Commission - Regular Meeting

Yay. Now I got them, Fortuna. Meeting to order.

Is it working? Yes. Right. Right. Okay. We're going to call this meeting to order. It is 541 p.m. This is the commission conference. Today is Tuesday, June 16, 2026. Clerk, will you please do the roll call?

Commissioner Chernoff? Commissioner Daniel is young. Commissioner Phyllis Smith present Commissioner for tuna smuggler president Commissioner Lynn Sue here. Vice Mayor Mackenzie Florman. Mayor Michael Joseph.

All right, so we're gonna be doing the presentations. The first one is a proclamation and recognition and key to the city to Arianna, she's not here, sorry. Okay, the next one is certificate of recognition to Lucas Savoy, Savory? Savoy, sorry. Mr. NMB 2026, mayor of the day, please come up and we're gonna all go down. Oh, you see on the paper, it's on the paper over there. It says Savoy, right? Not, it's not spelled the same. That's why I, okay. So we have a certificate of accomplishment for Lucas

Sivori.

And we're gonna have Commissioner Smith start reading it.

Louis, this is for you, Lucas. In recognition of your outstanding leadership, academic excellence, and commitment to service, As a dedicated student leader at North Miami Beach Senior High School, you have distinguished yourself through exemplary involvement in school organizations, athletic training, and student leadership. Through your service as president of the yearbook staff, treasurer of the class board, and Mr. NMB, you have demonstrated integrity, responsibility, and school pride. The city of North Miami Beach proudly recognizes your participation in Youth in Government Day and your service as Mayor for the day, where you displayed exceptional civic leadership, professionalism, and dedication to community engagement. We commend your achievement and wish you continued success in your future endeavors, presented on June 16th, 2026, the Mayor and the Commissioners of North Miami Beach. Wow. Now tell us what kind of athletic, what were you athletic-wise?

I'm an athletic trainer. I help with football. I'm just there as like a medical, and I just help them out, make sure they don't get injured or anything.

And you also were president of quite a few, head of quite a few different departments in North Miami Beach High School. Tell us a little bit about that.

So, yes, I tried my hardest to put myself out there. I want to be more involved. I want to get the full high school experience, and I want to do right with the school spirit for NMB. And, yeah, it was just an honor that I was put in those roles, being president for yearbook, being part of athletic training. I just want to help out the school.

Wow. Thank you. That's certainly a young man of service, a young man of service.

You'll be in government soon. Yeah, so you've seen him here now, and maybe in a few years there'll be a picture of us here that... You'll be behind us.

Yeah.

Is there something you would like to say?

I just want to say I'm so grateful for this experience, especially being mayor for the day here at City Hall. And it was truly something that I will never forget. And I'm so appreciative. And I'm so honored for this certificate also. Thank you. Thank you, guys.

And we're going to present. Yeah, just stay because we're going to do another one. And I just want to apologize. We're running a few minutes behind because we had a power outage and we finally got to get our equipment up and going. So this is why we're starting so late. But this will be short. The next one is for...

Good afternoon for the whole program that was put on for the governance day. Okay, whereas Virtuum Populo Inc is a youth-led 501c3 nonprofit organization founded in 2022 on the belief that young people should not merely learn about government from a distance, but should be provided meaningful opportunities to experience public service. leadership and civic engagement firsthand. Since its founding, Virtuum Populo has impacted thousands of students throughout Miami-Dade County through leadership development programs, civic competitions, community-minded citizens and

Whereas Youth Governance Day serves as a flagship civic engagement program for , created to bridge the gap between students and local government by providing young people with direct access to municipal leadership and firsthand exposure to the responsibilities of public service, and whereas Through Youth Governance Day, selected students are paired with mayors, commissioners, city managers, clerks, police chiefs, and other public officials, allowing participants to observe governmental operations, engage with civic leaders, and gain a deeper understanding of how local government impacts the daily lives of residents. What began as a pilot initiative has grown into one of South Florida's largest youth civic engagement experiences, demonstrating the importance of empowering young people to actively participate in the democratic process and preparing them for the future leaders within their communities.

Whereas on June 8, 2026, Youth Governance Day, successfully engaged students across 19 municipalities and constitutional offices throughout Miami-Dade County, providing participants with a unique opportunity to observe decision-making processing, learn the value of public service, and develop a greater appreciation for civic responsibility and... Whereas the program is rooted in the principle that students cannot be expected to lead systems they have never been invited to see from the inside. That's so true. And by opening the doors of government to young people, Youth Governance Day helps foster the next generation of public servants, civic leaders, and engaged citizens and...

Whereas as the United States approaches the 250th anniversary of its founding, Youth Governance Day serves as a powerful reminder that democracy is strongest when each generation is equipped not only to inherit its institutions, but also to strengthen and sustain them for the future. And whereas the city of North Miami Beach proudly recognizes for its extraordinary commitment to civic engagement civic education, youth empowerment, leadership development, and public service, and commends the organization for inspiring young people to become active participants in their communities and our own democracy. Now, therefore, the Mayor and the Commission of the City of North Miami Beach, Florida do hereby proclaim June 16th, 2026 as the virtual, okay, say it.

Virtutum Populo.

And Youth Governance Day in the city of North Miami Beach and extended our sincere appreciation to the same place. It's leadership, volunteers, community partners, and participating students for their dedication to fostering civic engagement, promoting public service, and preparing the next generation of leaders who will shape the future of our community, our state, and our nation. And it is signed by the mayor and the commission. But in all seriousness, I didn't want to botch the name, but this is such an important thing that we're bringing government forward generation after generation. Good government.

We appreciate you so much.

We appreciate that. Thank you to the mayor and the commission, and thank you to Ms. Morris for coordinating this awesome program. So it is for tutum populo. It doesn't exactly roll off the tongue, and it's Latin. We want it to be special. And so it's Latin for power to the people. Power to the people. But it's a conversation starter for sure. Youth Governance Day not only shows students its government, but it shows government its students. And cities build great buildings. They build great standard operating procedures. But they're also tasked with building great people. And that starts at the bottom with our youth. Youth Governance Day started three years ago with 13 cities. In 2026, we now have 19 cities that are hosting mayors for a day. And we are happy to say that North Miami Beach was the first, one of the first cities when we started with those six cities in 2025, 2024, sorry, to join. So thank you so much. We now have the county mayor, we have the county clerk of courts, and we're expanding to 34 cities. I do attend Miami New Orleans Senior High School, and so I serve as executive director. I am not in North Miami Beach, but your mayor was in North Miami Beach. But we have 31 cities that run our team, and this is one of our nine programs, but it is our flagship. So thank you so much, and we look forward to you hosting a student mayor next year.

And I know someone who knows all 34 cities. And I would be more than happy to help the program get into all the different cities, because I think this is a wonderful organization. Thank you.

And would you introduce this lovely lady and her role?

Sure, how could I forget?

So Isadora is our program coordinator elect. She will be working on Youth Governance Day. And so we have 31 executive committee members. Isadora attends Don Sofer right next door in Aventura. And Isadora, do you want to say anything?

So I would just like to say that this program was truly amazing. I was the mayor for the day for Aventura for 2026, and it truly expanded my knowledge on different levels. Honestly, I felt. coming out of the program, just more experience with my leadership skills. I just felt more confident in myself. And I feel that even if students aren't so interested in government, this would be an amazing program just for them to learn how to experience the real world and just step into how it is in the real world.

Well, thank you very much.

Thank you so much. Congratulations, thank you.

So is, oh, . Are they here? I don't know. I don't know.

Where are we? 2.4.

All right, let's do a proclamation recognizing the city of North Miami Beach Honor Guard.

There we go. We're not shy, remember? Remember we're not shy? I got you smiling. So I just want to say that you know,

We have an amazing police department, and the Honor Guard only gets to be Honor Guard a few times a year, and they do an amazing job. And I hope, I think, I know that the three of you will agree, the Honor Guard was present when I was installed at the Presidents of Miami-Dade County League of Cities, and I've never been so proud. You guys did an amazing job that night and I just wanted to show the appreciation because Honor Guard is always there for us and did a good job. So whereas the Mayor and Commission of the City of North Miami Beach proudly recognize the members of North Miami Beach Honor Guard for their unwavering commitment to service, professionalism, tradition and excellence in representing the city and its residents and

Whereas honor guards have long served as ceremonial units dedicated to preserving the highest traditions of public service, rendering honors at memorial services, commemorative events, civics, ceremonies, and occasions of special significance, while demonstrating dignity, discipline, and respect. Ann.

Whereas members of North Miami Beach Honor Guard serve as ambassadors to the city, presenting the colors, participating in patriotic observances, honoring fallen heroes, recognizing distinguished guests, and representing the city at local, regional, and national events with pride and distinction. And whereas, through countless hours of training, preparation, and volunteer service, the members of the Honor Guard uphold ceremonial protocols and traditions that reflect honor, integrity, courage, and devotion to the duty. And...

Whereas the North Miami Beach Honor Guard provides comfort and support to families, fellow public servants, veterans, and community members during times of remembrance and celebration, ensuring that those who have served are recognized with the respect and gratitude they deserve. and whereas the dedication, professionalism, and selfless service demonstrated by the members of the North Miami Beach Honor Guard exemplifies the highest ideals of public service and contribute to the strength, unity, and civic pride of our community. Now, therefore, the Mayor and Commission of the City of North Miami Beach do hereby recognize the honor and honor the North Miami Beach Honor Guard for its distinguished service For its distinguished service, for its distinguished service, the record broke, distinguished service, steadfast commitment to ceremonial excellence and unwavering dedication to honoring our nation, our community, and those who have faithfully served and witnessed by the mayor and the commission of North Rummy Beach.

Well, good evening, everyone. First and foremost, on behalf of Chief Juan Penillos and the police department, I want to thank the mayor and the commission and the manager's office for recognizing our honor guard, and especially Commissioner Sportuna Smuggler, recognizing them from the other night at the gala. They did an outstanding job. This is a unit that doesn't get enough recognition. They're a very small unit. They're called when we have ceremonies, if there's a funeral they have to do, or any type of police swearing in. They're to the T, because I tell you, I couldn't do it, and I was in the military. I'd fall over. So they're just... They're trained in what they do, and Sergeant Figueroa has done a great job on taking it over, and I'll hand the mic to her if she wants to say anything.

Well, thank you very much for having us. Extremely, extremely grateful for the acknowledgement and the recognition. Super happy to receive this for our Honor Guard unit. I will definitely pass the message along to them. We're here for you guys with whatever you need, and very happy to be here. Thank you. Thank you very much.

And when that cute little girl was singing the national anthem, they were able to stand there perfectly and not jump around and say yay. So they did an amazing job. So thank you so much for your service.

Wait, wait, wait, wait. All right. Thank you. Congratulations. Thank you so much.

Thank you.

Oh, she's here? Yeah. I'd like to, the next recognition will be for .

So please come on up.

That's not his name, by the way. So I just wanted to... It's an amazing thing in... Let's scoot this way. Okay, so... It's an amazing thing. I went to the... the GMCVB, which is the Greater Miami Convention and Visitor Bureau. They're state of the tourism event of the year. And they were recognizing restaurants all around Miami-Dade County. And believe it or not, North Miami Beach now has its own Michelin-recognized restaurant. Wow. which is amazing. It is the only one. So I wanted to give this because it is also my favorite restaurant. Ever since I've been there, I try to go there every month. So let's start.

Whereas Barra Caio was founded in the city of North Miami Beach by chef Anthony Verastegu as the realization of a lifelong dream inspired by his culinary journey, his passion for innovation, and his deep connection to his Peruvian heritage.

Whereas after years of dedication, learning, and refinement, chef

Anthony Verastegui.

Verastegui. Okay, brought his vision to life through opening of Baracayau. A unique culinary destination that has enriched North Miami Beach diverse dining scene and contributed to the city's growing reputation as a center of cultural and culinary excellence. Whereas Baracayau celebrates the rich traditions of Peruvian cuisine while embracing the influence of Nikkei, which is Japanese, gastronomy and distinctive fusion of Peruvian and Japanese culinary traditions known for its creativity, artistry, and exceptional flavors. And whereas...

Through its intimate dining experience, commitment to fresh ingredients, and inoculative menu offering... Barra Callao. has earned widespread recognition from residents, visitors, food critics, and culinary publications as one of the South Florida's premier destinations for Peruvian seafood and vichy, bringing positive attention to the city of North Miami Beach. And I saw it on the news first. It was a big thing on the news.

Whereas Chef Anthony ..

It took me a day to learn his name correctly. OK.

recognized as a pioneer of Miami's Peruvian food movement, has demonstrated a commitment to culinary excellence, mentorship, and creativity, empowering his team to explore new ideas while honoring the traditions and cultural heritage that inspire their work, and whereas the success of Baracayao reflects the passion, dedication, and collaborative spirit of its team, the loyalty of its patrons, and the support of the North Miami Beach community, which has embraced the restaurant and its story since its opening end.

Whereas in May 2026, earned the prestigious Michelin Bib Gourmand distinction from the Michelin Guide to International Recognized Honor Award to restaurants that offer exceptional cuisine and outstanding value, subsequently, was recognized by local leaders in the Greater Miami Convention and Visitors Bureau during its annual State of the Travel and Tourism Industry event for its remarkable achievement, rapid rise, and significant contribution to Greater Miami's vibrant culinary landscape, further elevating the city of North Miami Beach's reputation as the destination for culinary excellence. Now therefore, we, the mayor and commissioner of the great city of North Miami Beach, do hereby proclaim June 16, 2026, Ibarra, I'm actually saying a bad word. No, I'm not trying to... You guys know I try to be very respectful. I'm not trying to... team for their outstanding contribution to the culinary arts, culture, enrichment, and continued commitment to excellence signed this June 16, 2026 day by mayor and commission. Congratulations.

I think I'm the only person that is going to say Baracayau correctly today. But yeah, no. I promise that I had a bigger speech done by but I think it's better when it comes from the heart and from my boss's heart. What's your name? My name is Carlos, the person in charge. Yeah, and the general manager from Baracayau. After the boss, it comes me for everything that is good and everything that is bad in the restaurant. Yeah, most of the things are good, I promise. Thank you for the city of North Miami Beach for giving us the opportunity to make a business in this city. This is an idea that started like eight, nine years ago when he rented the place in North Miami Beach.

What's the address?

The address, to be honest, I always put Barra Callao on Google Maps. That's where my life is. Dixie, across from the aura. Next to La Hacienda. It's easier to understand like that. Like two stores next to Foba Me, which is an amazing Vietnamese place.

Next to La Fruteria.

Exactly, exactly. What is there to say? Thank you for Chef Anthony to give me the opportunity. And Anthony is also very grateful. He couldn't be here today because he's doing service. Service doesn't stop, never. Yeah, he came 18 years ago with an idea, which is basically doing a stable in Miami on the culinary scene. He failed many times until he succeeded, which is basically But Miami is dumb. You try it until you make it. And that's the deal. Trust me, I had a better and more professional speech in my head and on my phone. But to finish everything, I will tell you that Miami is a city done by immigrants. many of them different cultures. It's a melting pot. I know it's a slant and everybody says it, but it is indeed a melting pot. For those who came before me, thank you very much. You gave me the opportunity for me to be here where I am right now and for the chef to make his dream come true. And it is up to us to do the same and harder for whatever the people that we love, to do the same for them.

That's it. Thank you.

And it's Anthony Verastegui, just in case. Yeah, please.

You want her to come up and be in the picture? Yes.

Yeah, she's my wife.

All right, one with the wife. One with the wife.

I have to make room for it. No, put the camera in front of you.

Yeah, with the view. One more. One more. I wasn't even looking at the camera. No, we don't.

Yeah.

I'm teasing because I know it. One more. Oh, one more. Congratulations. You're still my favorite. Thank you.

Commission conference is adjourned.

We'll start the commission meeting at 616.

What time did you say, sir? What is this? Okay, I'll take care of it.