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1
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MINUTES PREPARED BY:
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REPORT:
Selena Brogdon, Commission Reporter
(305) 375-1475
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1A
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INVOCATION AS PROVIDED IN RULE 5.05(H)
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REPORT:
Chairwoman Edmonson began the Board of County Commission Special meeting at 10:04 a.m. Prior to the Pledge of Allegiance, a moment of silence was observed in memory of Mr. James D. Patterson�s wife, Carol Patterson. Mayor Gimenez, Chairwoman Edmonson, and other constituents extended their condolences to the Patterson family.
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1B
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ROLL CALL
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REPORT:
The following staff members were present: Miami-Dade Mayor Carlos Gimenez; First Assistant County Attorney Geri Bonzon Keenan; Deputy Mayors, Edward Marquez and Maurice Kemp; Office of Management and Budget Director Jennifer Moon; and Deputy Clerks Linda Cave, Selena Brogdon, and Kely Delille.
SETTING THE AGENDA
First Assistant County Attorney Geri Bonzon Keenan advised the Board Special Agenda Items numbers 1 through 6 would be considered as listed in today�s (8/24) agenda and referenced the Board of Procedures regarding Special Meetings. She indicated no other business shall be transacted other than the matters provided for in the notice. Attorney Bonzon Keenan announced the following commissioners requested to be added as co-sponsors; Special Item No. 3 add Commissioner Higgins as co-sponsor and for Special Item No. 4 add Commissioners Bovo and Higgins as co-sponsors. She indicated a motion to set the agenda was in order.
It was moved by Commissioner Sosa to approve today�s (8/24) Special Agenda. This motion was seconded by Commissioner Diaz and upon being put to a vote, the vote passed 11-0. (Commissioners Heyman and Moss were absent)
Following the setting of the agenda Commissioner Jordan congratulated all the winners during this primary election with special acknowledgement to Mr. Oliver Gilbert. Commissioner Diaz also congratulated future Miami-Dade Commissioners Oliver Gilbert, Rene Garcia and other elected officials including Keon Hardemon and Kionne McGhee. He acknowledged Miami-Dade Mayor Gimenez for actions he has taken to protect residents.
Mayor Carlos Gimenez congratulated Commissioners Martinez and Higgins on their electoral win. Other Board constituents echoed the same sentiments.
Commissioners request to be listed as co-sponsors for the following items:
Commissioner Higgins and Chairwoman Edmonson requested to be added as co-sponsor for Special Item No. 3
Commissioners Martinez, Levine Cava, Bovo, Higgins, Diaz and Chairwoman Edmonson requested to be added as co-sponsor for Special Item No 4.
Chairwoman Edmonson requested to be added as co-sponsor for Special Items No. 3, 4, and 5 .
Chairwoman Edmonson requested to be added as co-sponsor for Special Item No. 6.
Commissioner Souto requested to be added as co-sponsor for Special Items No. 3, 4, and 5.
Commissioner Jordan requested to be added as co-sponsor for Special Items No. 3, 4, and 5.
Commissioner Monestime requested to be added as a co-sponsor for Special Items No. 3, 4, and 5.
Commissioner Moss requested to be added as co-sponsor for Special Items No. 3, 4, and 5.
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1C
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PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
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1D
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REASONABLE OPPORTUNITY FOR THE PUBLIC TO BE HEARD AS PROVIDED IN RULE 6.06
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REPORT:
The reasonable opportunity was opened by Chairwoman Edmonson. After no one appeared wishing to speak via Zoom or telephone, the reasonable opportunity was closed.
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2
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SPECIAL ITEMS
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Special Item No. 1
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201720
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Discussion Item
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Audrey M. Edmonson
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DISCUSSION ITEM REGARDING THE CORONAVIRUS DISEASE 2019 (COVID-19) PANDEMIC
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Presented
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REPORT:
MIAMI-DADE COUNTY MAYOR GIMENEZ PROVIDED AN UPDATE ON CORONAVIRUS INITATIVES:
� Mayor Gimenez will continue meetings with medical advisors to expand re-opening Miami-Dade economy
� Expand Center for Disease Control (CDC) rules to include gyms while exercising
� Re-open beaches with restricted measures
� Curfew would remain in effect, 10 PM
� Mayor Gimenez will continue weekly White House conferences with City of Miami Mayor, Francis Suarez, Doctor Anthony Fauci, and Doctor Deborah Birx
� Continued meetings with medical advisors from the University of Miami (U-Health), Florida International University (F.I.U.) and Florida Department of Health
Miami-Dade County Mayor Carlos Gimenez provided an oral update on Miami-Dade status regarding coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19/COVID) statistics and recovery. He reported the statistics have decreased, positivity rates had been under 10% for five (5) days, declining numbers of hospitalizations from 2,300 to 1,000 to date, and he reported decreasing numbers were reflected for Intensive Care Units (ICU) and ventilators. Mayor Gimenez indicated the death rates would reflect a decline over time. He emphasized the number one transmission occurred in multigenerational housing family units; the secondly cause of transmission was still medically reported as unknown, and the third cause of transmission was by contact with health care workers. He indicated discussions would continue regarding opening up other parts of the economy were dependent upon the COVID-19 infection rates.
Commissioner Levine Cava expressed concerns regarding the State of Florida withholding Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act Funds and not disbursing Miami-Dade County�s proportion, $8 billion (55%).
Deputy Mayor Maurice Kemp provided Commissioner Levine Cava an update on isolation rooms in South Dade. He stated the average occupancy was 470 to 500 people with capacity to receive 170 additional people. In addition, he stated he was currently working with the State Department of Emergency Management for additional hotels to serve as isolation rooms. Deputy Mayor Kemp announced the information for the isolation rooms were available on Miami-Dade County�s website.
Mayor Gimenez noted hotel isolation rooms were implemented months ago.
A dialogue ensued between Commissioner Levine Cava and Mayor Gimenez regarding the gating criteria used to gauge re-opening local businesses. Mayor Gimenez indicated the gating criteria used was 10% noting, these standard guidelines were issued by the Center for Disease Control (CDC) and the same guidelines were used to re-open Miami-Dade�s economy. He indicated the World Health Organization recommended 5%. He reported Miami-Dade County�s Dash Board reflected: the past five days has been under 10%, a 14 daily average of 10.64%, and Mayor Gimenez indicated the new Dash Board calculations should have a 9% average reading.
Mayor Gimenez and Deputy Mayor Maurice Kemp provided an oral status based upon Commissioner Levine Cava�s Coronavirus inquiries:
� There would be a total of 650 contact tracers; currently 627 confirmed by Ms. Moon
� Rapid testing methods include Antigen test available at Marlins Park, Amelia Earhart, and Hard Rock Stadium; and PCR (Polymerase chain reaction) also a rapid testing method
� Utilization of the Mayor�s Communication Department to urge people to test for COVID-19
� Implement pop up mobile testing in hot spots (See legislative number for more details)
� Coming soon, secured contracts for sprinter vans stationed at Publix parking lots for testing via walk up and by appointments
� Implementing penalties for turn-around time greater than 48 hours for new lab contracts
Deputy Mayor Maurice Kemp reported the rapid testing methods were antigen (antibody test) with a turn-around time of three (3) days or less (86% above) and PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) produced the fastest turn-around time of 2 days.
Commissioner Levine Cava requested to be added as co-sponsor for Special Item No. 3.
In response to Chairwoman Edmonson�s question if the Hard Rock Stadium would re-open, Mayor Gimenez stated Florida Governor, Ron DeSantis allowed for Miami-Dade County to be autonomous in regards to re-opening professional sports facilities to allow the entrance of spectators and patrons.
Commissioner Diaz suggested for the Board to consider the use of new technologies for faster testing results. He supported the re-opening of restaurants to sustain a stronger economy under the appropriate safety conditions.
Commissioner Sosa suggested the best way to decrease the number of coronavirus transmission was through enforcement of medical rules to persuade people to abide by the guidelines. She agreed with Commissioner Diaz that local residents were increasing the spread by patronizing restaurants in Broward and other re-opened counties. As a possible solution, Commissioner Sosa suggested to close entities not enforcing the medical guidelines. She encouraged Mayor Gimenez to speak with Florida Governor, DeSantis to take extra measures to assist people with underlying conditions.
Mayor Gimenez ensured Commissioner Sosa there would be a meeting with restaurant owners today at 4:30 p.m. to address concerns she raised today. He emphasized people could go out but mask wearing was still enforced indoors and outdoors to fight against COVID-19 and the upcoming flu season.
Commissioner Martinez conveyed more still needed to be done in regards to taking additional legislative actions at Board meetings. Commissioner Martinez stated that he did not oppose outdoor dining however, additional measures needed to be taken in regards to specific guidelines to open indoor dining. He opined restaurants owners should participate in making decisions concerning the restaurant industry and advocated for restaurants to re-open at 50% capacity. He emphasized there needed to be a boost to improve people�s moral and suggested the reopening of entertainment and sports facilities. Upon Commissioner Martinez� request to attend the meeting, Mayor Gimenez indicated he welcomed all commissioners to join the restaurant meeting today and in the future if there were no violation(s) of the Sunshine Law and other rules. Commissioner Martinez indicated he would like to listen to the meeting if commissioners were not allowed to participate/appear in person to acquire important information, as done at briefings.
Commissioner Martinez asked the Miami-Dade County Attorney to research if commissioners could attend off-site meetings with Mayor Gimenez without violating the Sunshine Law. First Assistant County Attorney Geri Bonzon-Keenan informed Commissioners Martinez and Bovo they would receive information later today advising if it was permissible to attend the 4:30 meeting today without violating any rules.
Chairwoman Edmonson stated the legislative branch of Miami-Dade, County Commissioners have the authority to make motions to make an effective change regarding community concerns. She added this Commission and the County Administration have greatly attributed to this legislative Board.
Commissioner Souto acknowledged the passing of Retiree, Dr. Cruz, Vladimir de los Angeles, Creator and Cattle Expert, Miami International Agriculture, Horse and Cattle Show. He announced Dr. Cruz succumb to the coronavirus to indicate the virus was serious and not to be taken lightly because it did not discriminate according to age or social class. He noted the Board had a great responsibility to make decisions to enforce rules which impacts everyone, including maintaining public safety standards. Commissioner Souto stated he observed many people in groups not wearing masks, from the homeless to people playing basketball at parks. He emphasized the importance to educate family members not to spread the virus to love ones at home, especially the youth because of their invincible mindset. He stressed additional measures must be taken because there was no cure.
Commissioner Souto requested to be add as co-sponsor for Special Agenda Items 3, 4, and 5.
Commissioner Jordan raised concern about people becoming depressed due to isolation, opined Miami-Dade re-opened the economy too soon. She urged the Board to be conservative in the next phase of re-opening to ensure lives would be protected. Commissioner Jordan used the State of New York as an example of how the use of strict measures turned the city from the epic-center of spiking coronavirus cases to now less than 1%. She requested to be added as co-sponsor for Special Items No. 3, 4, and 5. She congratulated her successor, Oliver Gilbert and other officials that won their elections.
Commissioner Monestime acknowledged health care professionals as heroes that had continually advised Mayor Gimenez. He endorsed the re-opening of the economy only at the appropriate time. Commissioner Monestime advocated for small businesses and entities to receive COVID funding relief. More specifically, Commissioner Monestime urged the Board to add the Greater Miami Convention and Visitors Bureau (GMCVB) to the Hospitality Grant Fund because they were financially impacted by COVID-19. He noted the Greater Miami Convention and Business Bureau were closely linked to the hospitality industry by providing marketing for South Florida�s tourism, the Cultural Arts, and other events hosted by Miami-Dade. He acknowledged Deputy Mayors Jennifer Moon and Maurice Kemp for their professional expertise and work they provided to this Board.
Commissioner Monestime requested to be added as a co-sponsor for Agenda Special Items No. 3, 4, and 5.
In response to Commissioner Bovo�s concerns to include a rule to relax Sunshine provisions during a declared State of Emergency to allow Commissioners permission to attend meetings to obtain pertinent information prior to media release, First Assistant County Attorney Gerri Bonzon advised Florida Governor, DeSantis order indicated the Sunshine Laws would still apply and the provisions within have not been waived by the governor�s executive orders with the exception of particular meetings not subject to the Sunshine Law where Commissioners are allowed to attend. He pointed out during this pandemic inequities exist when you compare corporate companies to small businesses. Commissioner Bovo questioned why small businesses were closing while major corporations reported growth earnings of 100%. He requested a place holder regarding economic recovery to advocate for small businesses to re-open their doors with safety measures and enforcement.
Commissioner Moss echoed the same concerns of Commissioner Monestime to support to the GMCVB because they contributed to Miami-Dade�s economy. He congratulated Commissioner Martinez, Keon Mc Ghee and all candidates for winning their past elections.
Deputy Mayor/Budget Director Jennifer Moon addressed Commissioner Moss� inquiry of how many unduplicated individuals have been tested to date., reporting that 4.4 million people were tested state wide and out of 778,000 people in Miami-Dade tested 110,000 were positive through yesterday. Commissioner Moss requested for Ms. Moon to send the aforementioned test results to his office and Board constituents.
Commissioner Moss requested to be added as co-sponsor for Special items No. 3, 4, and 5.
Commissioner Moss raised concerns about the remaining balance of CARES Act Funds still available and requested for a portion of COVID funds be reserved for the unincorporated areas of Miami-Dade County (UMSA) specifically, for his commission district 9, which was 97% unincorporated.
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Special Item No. 2
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201711
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Discussion Item
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Dennis C. Moss
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DISCUSSION ITEM REGARDING THE CORONAVIRUS DISEASE 2019 (COVID-19) PANDEMIC ON COUNTY ELECTION PLANNING FOR NOVEMBER IN LIGHT OF VOTER SAFETY, VOTER ACCESS AND POST OFFICE CONCERNS
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Presented
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REPORT:
Commissioner Moss introduced this item and provided an oral exposition of voter�s rights enacted in past decades:
� 1965, The Voting Rights Act
� 1984 Voting Accessibility for the Elderly and Handicap Act
� 1986 Uniform and Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act
� 1993 the National Voter Registration Act
� 2002 The Help America Vote Act (HAVA)
Commissioner Moss noted bi-partisan voter suppression concerns were being raised across the nation in regards to unfair tactics used to discourage voters to participate in the 2020 November elections. He noted changes to the Federal Postal Service and vote by mail procedures could possibly impede the gamut of voting processes, hindering the timeliness to deliver and tally all votes. He briefly mentioned voting scams of the past to point out the history and sheer existence of voter fraud and discrimination. Commissioner Moss emphasized the value to preserve various voting methods to minimize the spread of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19/COVID) to allow the vulnerable and disadvantaged to vote in a safe and secure manner. He announced he was working on upcoming legislation to preserve the fundamental rights of eligible voters to deter voter oppression.
Chairwoman Edmonson and Jennifer Moon thanked Ms. Cristina White, Supervisor of Elections and the election department staff for the work they do , especially for drop off ballots for early voting. Ms. Jennifer Moon, Deputy Mayor/Budget Director, recognized and credited Chairwoman Edmonson�s for the approved item to have drop of boxes at every early voting cites and urged the Board to raise more awareness regarding this option in November. Chairwoman Edmonson was recognized by Ms. White, Deputy Mayors� Moon, and Kemp for leading and being the pioneer to implement approved legislation, first in the State of Florida, Miami-Dade vehicle drive up, drop-off boxes for vote by mail (at every early voting sites).
Ms. Christina White, Supervisor, Elections Department addressed Commissioner Levine Cava�s concerns regarding safety measures taken to secure drop box ballots, raise public awareness regarding voting methods, and how to deliver vote-by- mail drop off in person.
Ms. White reported future action would include adding 33 vehicle drive up boxes due to legislation mandating drop off boxes for each early voting site and procedures would remain the same in November. Ms. White explained other safety measures would include:
� Early voting services would be 16 consecutive days to hand deliver drop off ballots to poll workers until election day; four (4) drop boxes on election
� Endorsement of the early voting model was the secured measure to protect ballots via sealed bins to ensure tallied votes by the Election Office at the end of the day
� Vote by mail acceptance procedures; required a written request from voter to mail ballot to different location and ballots could not be forwarded to another address other than the one listed on file
� Reinforce ballots do not require in person drop off; Elections Department have a live system to view if a ballot was mailed or received; if mailed that person still had the option to vote in person
Based upon Commissioner Levine Cava�s concern to secure ballots and the voting process, Ms. White stated she was open to suggestions to make the voting process more efficient and suggested placing voting information on social media or the Miami-Dade County website.
Commissioner Higgins mentioned voters felt safe at polling stations. Ms. White confirmed to Commissioner Higgins there would be a total of 33 vote by mail drop off site/vote by mail ballots.
Although Ms. White confirmed there would be a total of 33 vote by mail drop off site/vote by mail ballots, she explained to Commissioner Higgins why the 33 drop boxes could not be used as drop off sites for vote-by-mail on Election Day. Chairwoman Edmonson commented she previously considered legislation on Commissioner Higgins suggestion and determined it was improbable.
Ms. White expounded the proposed suggestion to use the 33 drop off boxes on Election Day would not be possible because the �cure process� (allow voters to correct routine issues) did not provide sufficient time to cure the ballot, there was not enough staff to rapidly tally votes; and as a safety measure, needed to adhere to traditional operational standards to ensure ballots were counted and reported on election night.
Commissioner Higgins asked Ms. White to conduct a geographical research of Miami-Dade County to see which sections were far from one of the four drop off cites to prevent large crowds forming at various precincts. In addition, she requested for Ms. White to consider adding at least one or two boxes for those extended areas.
Commissioner Diaz congratulated Ms. White and her staff for the work they have done during the 2020 Early Voting Election process. He urged his colleagues to communicate and educate the public not to show up on Election Day with absentee ballots. Commissioner Diaz emphasized many have lost their lives for us to have the fundamental right to vote today.
Commissioner Jordan expressed her gratitude for Miami-Dade County making the switch from electronic to paper ballots. She inquired if other people were still turning in ballots for voters and if so what procedures were in place. Ms. White stated there was two contradicting legislation in which one policy read you have to be a family member or a nominated designee requiring both signatures of voter and designee, permitted only on Monday or Tuesday of Election Day. Ms. White stated to reconcile other people dropping off a ballot for someone else such as a family member, the poll workers would ask the person dropping off the ballot to voluntarily provide his or her identification or to write down his/her name in the event of future enforcement action. In response to Commissioner Jordan�s inquiry regarding voter fraud, Ms. White stated there was a Public Corruption Unit at the State Attorney�s Office if voter fraud was suspected. She indicated her goal was to balance the contradicting legislation by obtaining a signature from the person dropping off the ballot. Commissioner Jordan asked Ms. White to review how other states such as Colorado were counting and tallying their votes to consider for Miami-Dade�s next future election.
Ms. White confirmed to Commissioner Sosa most large counties also allowed two weeks of early voting. However, she mentioned Miami-Dade was the only county that offered vehicle drive up to drop off mail ballots.
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Special Item No. 3
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201702
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Resolution
 Clerk's Official Copy
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Audrey M. Edmonson
Daniella Levine Cava
Jose "Pepe" Diaz
Eileen Higgins
Barbara J. Jordan
Jean Monestime
Dennis C. Moss
Rebeca Sosa
Sen. Javier D. Souto
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RESOLUTION DIRECTING THE COUNTY MAYOR OR COUNTY MAYOR�S DESIGNEE TO DEVELOP AND IMPLEMENT A PLAN IN RESPONSE TO THE CORONAVIRUS DISEASE 2019 (COVID-19) PANDEMIC TO EXPAND THE PROVISION OF MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES TO COUNTY RESIDENTS, IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $1,000,000.00; AUTHORIZING THE COUNTY MAYOR OR COUNTY MAYOR�S DESIGNEE TO NEGOTIATE AND EXECUTE ANY DOCUMENTS NECESSARY TO CARRY OUT THE PURPOSES OF THIS RESOLUTION; DIRECTING THE COUNTY MAYOR OR COUNTY MAYOR�S DESIGNEE TO APPLY FOR, RECEIVE, AND EXPEND ANY LEGALLY AVAILABLE FUNDS FOR THIS PURPOSE; AND REQUIRING REPORTS
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Adopted
Resolution R-784-20
Mover: Audrey M. Edmonson
Seconder: Barbara J. Jordan
Vote: 12 - 0
Excused: Heyman
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REPORT:
Chairwoman Edmonson introduced the purpose and intent of this special item was to address Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19/COVID) concerns in connection with mental health services to Miami-Dade County residents.
Chairwoman Edmonson relinquished the Chair to Vice Chairwoman Sosa.
Vice Chairwoman Sosa and Commissioner Diaz requested to be added as a co-sponsor for special agenda item no 4.
Following the vote of this item, Chairwoman Edmonson resumed the chair.
There being no further questions or comments, the Board proceeded to adopt the foregoing proposed special item as presented.
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Special Item No. 4
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201682
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Resolution
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Rebeca Sosa
Esteban L. Bovo, Jr.
Daniella Levine Cava
Jose "Pepe" Diaz
Audrey M. Edmonson
Eileen Higgins
Barbara J. Jordan
Joe A. Martinez
Jean Monestime
Dennis C. Moss
Sen. Javier D. Souto
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RESOLUTION APPROVING AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $16,000,000.00 IN FUNDS MADE AVAILABLE THROUGH THE 2020 CORONAVIRUS AID, RELIEF, AND ECONOMIC SECURITY ACT (CARES ACT) TO PROVIDE A TEMPORARY HAZARDOUS DUTY PAY SUPPLEMENT FOR ALL COUNTY AND MUNICIPAL FIRST RESPONDERS AND SWORN COUNTY CORRECTIONS OFFICERS IN GEOGRAPHIC MIAMI-DADE COUNTY FOR THE DURATION OF THE COUNTY�S CORONAVIRUS DISEASE 2019 (COVID-19) STATE OF EMERGENCY; DIRECTING THE COUNTY MAYOR OR COUNTY MAYOR�S DESIGNEE TO DEVELOP, IMPLEMENT, AND ADMINISTER AN EMERGENCY FUND OR GRANT FOR MUNICIPALITIES WITHIN GEOGRAPHIC MIAMI-DADE COUNTY TO PROVIDE THE TEMPORARY HAZARDOUS DUTY PAY SUPPLEMENT FOR MUNICIPAL FIRST RESPONDERS; AUTHORIZING THE COUNTY MAYOR OR COUNTY MAYOR�S DESIGNEE TO EXECUTE ANY DOCUMENTS NECESSARY TO CARRY OUT THE PURPOSES OF THE EMERGENCY FUND OR GRANT; AND REQUIRING A REPORT
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Amended
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REPORT:
Please see Special Item No. 4 Amended, Legislative File Number 202245 for amended version.
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Special Item No. 4 Amended
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202245
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Resolution
Clerk's Official Copy
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Rebeca Sosa
Esteban L. Bovo, Jr.
Daniella Levine Cava
Jose "Pepe" Diaz
Audrey M. Edmonson
Eileen Higgins
Barbara J. Jordan
Joe A. Martinez
Jean Monestime
Dennis C. Moss
Sen. Javier D. Souto
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RESOLUTION APPROVING AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $16,000,000.00 IN FUNDS MADE AVAILABLE THROUGH THE 2020 CORONAVIRUS AID, RELIEF, AND ECONOMIC SECURITY ACT (CARES ACT) TO PROVIDE A TEMPORARY HAZARDOUS DUTY PAY SUPPLEMENT FOR ALL COUNTY AND MUNICIPAL FIRST RESPONDERS AND SWORN COUNTY CORRECTIONS OFFICERS IN GEOGRAPHIC MIAMI-DADE COUNTY FOR THE DURATION OF THE COUNTY�S CORONAVIRUS DISEASE 2019 (COVID-19) STATE OF EMERGENCY; DIRECTING THE COUNTY MAYOR OR COUNTY MAYOR�S DESIGNEE TO DEVELOP, IMPLEMENT, AND ADMINISTER AN EMERGENCY FUND OR GRANT FOR MUNICIPALITIES WITHIN GEOGRAPHIC MIAMI-DADE COUNTY TO PROVIDE THE TEMPORARY HAZARDOUS DUTY PAY SUPPLEMENT FOR MUNICIPAL FIRST RESPONDERS; AUTHORIZING THE COUNTY MAYOR OR COUNTY MAYOR�S DESIGNEE TO EXECUTE ANY DOCUMENTS NECESSARY TO CARRY OUT THE PURPOSES OF THE EMERGENCY FUND OR GRANT; AND REQUIRING A REPORT [SEE ORIGINAL ITEM UNDER FILE NO. 201682]
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Adopted as amended
Resolution R-785-20
Mover: Rebeca Sosa
Seconder: Esteban L. Bovo, Jr.
Vote: 12 - 0
Excused: Heyman
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REPORT:
Chairwoman Edmonson relinquished the chair to Vice Chairwoman Rebeca Sosa.
This Special Item was introduced by Commissioner Sosa as part of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. She explained the original intent of this item would benefit specific employees classified as first responders, police officers, correctional officers, and fire fighters exposed to the Coronavirus. In addition, she provided flexibility in the language for the inclusion of other Miami-Dade municipalities to voluntarily adopt this resolution.
This proposed resolution was amended by Commissioner Sosa to include language addressing Commissioner Martinez concerns regarding a Miami-Dade Water and Sewer employee denied one week of leave for child care, under the CARES ACT due to the category of their occupational title, emergency responder.
Upon Commissioner Martinez� questioning a dialogue ensued regarding the difference between first responder and emergency responder based on the County�s definition, Mr. Edward Marquez, Deputy Mayor defined emergency responders as employees called to return to work to serve in the event of an emergency.
Commissioner Sosa added a friendly amendment to clarify this item would cover employees at home due to contraction of COVID-19 as a result of exposure on the job. She thanked her constituents for sponsoring this legislation.
Commissioners Martinez and Levine Cava requested to be listed as a co-sponsors for this item.
A conversation ensued amongst commissioners regarding a prior motion Commissioner Jordan made to include nurses in the CARES Act Fund to provide temporary hazardous duty pay for first responders, 1% hazardous pay. Commissioner Jordan stated this issue would be addressed at the Board meeting, August 31st.
Ms. Jennifer Moon, Office of Management and Budget Director affirmed to Commissioner Moss the monies left in reserve for the unincorporated municipal services areas (UMSA) of Miami-Dade was $37 million and still available to furnish for that purpose.
Commissioner Monestime asked if there was remaining funds left from the CARES Act to include the Greater Miami Convention and Visitors Bureau (GMCVB). Ms. Moon clarified the remaining CARES Act funds were totally allocated to UMSA. However, she assured Commissioner Monestime she would contact the GMCVB to make an assessment of needs and determine if other sources of funding was available to provide financial relief.
It was moved by Commissioner Sosa that the Board adopt the foregoing proposed resoution as amended.
The amended version was assigned Resolution number R-785-20.
This motion was seconded by Commissioner Bovo, and upon being put to a vote, the motion passed by a vote of 12-0. (Commissioner Heyman was absent)
A discussion ensued regarding Commissioner Jordan�s previously request to have nurses of Jackson Memorial Hospital (JMH) added to the CARES Act funds. Commissioner Jordan requested an itemization of the $8 million allocated for this purpose. She clarified the Public Health Trust ratified this item at the last Board meeting. Ms. Moon indicated she would work with the Public Health Trust for expenditure solutions.
Through research of First Assistant County Attorney, Geri Bonzon- Keenan advised this special item was voted on in the past to negotiate with the Union to approve CARES Act funds for nurses and the 1% hazardous duty pay was approved by the Board and could be used for the purpose of State and Federal Funding, pending the appropriation to have funding identified.
Assistant County Attorney Marlon Moffett confirmed this provision also included nurses and doctors.
In response to Commissioner Jordan�s question as to whether or not other categories of this item were previously earmarked for COVID-19, First Assistant County Attorney Bonzon Keenan informed Commissioner Jordan there was separate funding for Transit, Nurses and Doctors. Ms. Moon noted Commissioner Jordan directed the Mayor or Mayor�s designee to identify funding and stated the Board would vote on this item, August 31st.
This Special Agenda Item was assigned resolution number R-785-20.
There being no further questions or comments, the Board proceeded to vote on the proposed special agenda item as amended.
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Special Item No. 5
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201715
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Resolution
Clerk's Official Copy
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Rebeca Sosa
Daniella Levine Cava
Audrey M. Edmonson
Barbara J. Jordan
Jean Monestime
Dennis C. Moss
Sen. Javier D. Souto
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RESOLUTION DIRECTING THE COUNTY MAYOR OR COUNTY MAYOR�S DESIGNEE TO DISPLAY SIGNAGE AND MESSAGING AT MIAMI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT ADVISING ARRIVING PASSENGERS OF STATE AND LOCAL EMERGENCY ORDERS THAT REQUIRE SOCIAL DISTANCING AND FACIAL COVERINGS AND URGE SUCH PASSENGERS TO SELF-ISOLATE IF ARRIVING FROM AN AREA DESIGNATED A COVID-19 HOT SPOT
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Adopted
Resolution R-786-20
Mover: Rebeca Sosa
Seconder: Audrey M. Edmonson
Vote: 12 - 0
Excused: Heyman
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REPORT:
Commissioner Sosa introduced this item and reminded everyone the emergency order was important as enforcement for the public to follow medical guidelines established by the Center for Disease Control (CDC).
Commissioner Levine Cava requested to be listed as a co-sponsor.
There being no further questions or comments, the Board proceeded to adopt this proposed special item.
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Special Item No. 6
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201716
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Resolution
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RESOLUTION RATIFYING CORONAVIRUS/COVID-19 STATE OF EMERGENCY ORDERS AND AMENDMENTS THERETO ENACTED BY THE MIAMI-DADE COUNTY MAYOR(Mayor)
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Adopted
Resolution R-787-20
Mover: Dennis C. Moss
Seconder: Audrey M. Edmonson
Vote: 12 - 0
Excused: Heyman
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REPORT:
There being no question or comments, the Board proceeded to adopt the special agenda item as presented.
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15F
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NON-AGENDA ITEM(S)
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15F1
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201735
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Resolution
Clerk's Official Copy
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Daniella Levine Cava
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RESOLUTION URGING GOVERNOR RON DESANTIS TO ALLOCATE AND DISTRIBUTE ADDITIONAL EMERGENCY FUNDS TO MIAMI-DADE COUNTY TO ASSIST AND SUPPORT THE COUNTY�S ONGOING RESPONSE TO THE CORONAVIRUS DISEASE 2019 (COVID-19)
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Adopted
Resolution R-788-20
Mover: Daniella Levine Cava
Seconder: Barbara J. Jordan
Vote: 12 - 0
Excused: Heyman
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REPORT:
Assistant County Attorney Javier Zapata read Commissioner Levine Cava�s proposed motion into the record as follows:
A motion was made by Commissioner Levine Cava to allocate additional emergency funds to Miami-Dade County to aid in the response to the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) with the following specific directives to this foregoing proposed resolution:
� Direct the Clerk to transmit this action as formatted in the resolution to the Governor, the Chair, Members of Miami-Dade State Legislative Delegation, and that the County�s State lobbyists advocate for the actions set forth in this motion
� Authorize and direct the Office of Intergovernmental Affairs to amend the 2020 State Legislative Package to include this item; and to include this item in the 2021 State Legislative Package
This motion was seconded by Commissioner Jordan and upon being put to a vote, the vote passed 12-0 as amended. (Commissioner Heyman was absent)
Commissioner Sosa pointed out this particular funding the State Legislative package allocated funding to the Counties not the cities. She noted this Board approved funding allocations to the cities and asked for the language to be corrected to reflect the correct action.
Based upon Commissioner Sosa�s concern to maintain an accurate account of Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act Funds disseminated, First Assistant County Attorney Geri Bonzon Keenan advised the language would be corrected to reflect money allocated to Miami-Dade County and this Board decided to approve to share CARES Act Funds with municipalities.
This foregoing motion was memorialized and assigned Resolution Number R-788-20.
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15F2
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201736
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Resolution
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MOTION MADE BY COMMISSIONER MARTINEZ
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Adopted
Resolution R-789-20
Mover: Joe A. Martinez
Seconder: Barbara J. Jordan
Vote: 12 - 0
Excused: Heyman
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REPORT:
Assistant County Attorney Anita Viciana read Commissioner Martinez� proposed motion into the record as follows:
A motion was made by Commissioner Martinez for the Economic Recovery Task Force to disseminate an on-line Assessment Survey, described in the August 3, 2020 Report to the Board to gauge high priority businesses and community needs county wide, and to provide a written report to this Board within 14 days detailing the implementation of the On-line Needs Assessment Survey, or provide details why such implementation would not be feasible.
Upon conclusion of the foregoing discussion, the Board members proceeded to take a vote.
The foregoing motion was memorialized and would be assigned Resolution Number R-789-20.
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3
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ADJOURNMENT
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REPORT:
There being no further business to come before the Board, the meeting adjourned at 12:54 p.m.
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3A
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CONSENT AGENDA
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| 9/2/2026 |
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Agenda Key: 4461 |