| |
|
|
|
|
|
1
|
MINUTES PREPARED BY:
|
| |
| |
REPORT:
Kerry Khunjar Breakenridge, Commission Reporter
(305)375-5108
|
|
|
1A
|
INVOCATION AS PROVIDED IN RULE 5.05(H)
|
| |
|
1B
|
ROLL CALL
|
| |
| |
REPORT:
Chairman Diaz convened the Board of County Commissioners (Board/BCC) Second Budget Hearing meeting at 5:08 p.m. with the invocation led by Dr. Juan Barek, Chairman of the Miami-Dade Interfaith Advisory Board; followed by the Pledge of Allegiance led by Vice Chairman Gilbert III.
In addition to the members of the Board, the following staff members were also present:
~ Chief Operations Officer Jimmy Morales, Office of the Mayor;
~ Chief Financial Officer Edward Marquez, Office of the Mayor;
~ County Attorney Geri Bonzon-Keenan and Assistant County Attorney Michael Valdes;
~ Clerk of the Board, Director, Basia Pruna and Deputy Clerks Kerry Khunjar Breakenridge
Also in attendance was Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava.
Chairman Diaz announced that the Chair's office was providing dinner to all staff members during tonight's (9/20) meeting.
|
|
|
1C
|
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
|
| |
| |
REPORT:
|
|
|
|
ITEMS
|
| |
|
|
|
| |
222074
|
Report
|
|
| |
|
| |
INFORMATION FOR SECOND BUDGET HEARING - FY 2022-23 PROPOSED BUDGET(Mayor)
|
Presented
|
| |
REPORT:
County Attorney Geri Bonzon-Keenan announced at tonight�s (9/20) Second Budget Hearing meeting, the Board of County Commissioners (Board) would conduct a public hearing and adopt millage rates, set fees, rates and other charges; and adopt final budgets from the County�s Fiscal Year 2022-23 Budget. She advised that there were eight ordinances before the Board in this regard, and noted the proposed millage rates adopted at the First Budget Hearing meeting (9/8) set the ceiling for the final millage rates that could be adopted at tonight�s (9/20) Second Budget Hearing meeting.
County Attorney Geri Bonzon-Keenan read the title of Agenda Item A into the record.
Mr. David Clodfelter, Director, Miami-Dade Office of Management and Budget (OMB), announced the proposed Countywide Operating millage was 4.6202 mills, which was 10.15 percent (10.15%) above the state-defined rolled-back rate of 4.1944 mills. He stated the proposed millage rate would generate revenues for services included in the proposed budget.
County Attorney Geri Bonzon-Keenan read the title of Agenda Item B into the record.
Mr. Clodfelter announced the proposed Countywide Debt Service Rate millage was 0.4853 mills; with 0.3599 mills for countywide debt service including the Building Better Communities Bond Program; and 0.1254 mills for the Public Health Trust Jackson Miracle-Building Bond Program.
County Attorney Geri Bonzon-Keenan read the titles of Agenda Items C and D into the record.
Mr. Clodfelter announced the proposed Unincorporated Municipal Service Area operating millage was 1.9090 mills which was 9.33 percent (9.33%) above the state-defined rolled-back rate of 1.7461 mills. He stated the proposed millage rate would generate revenues for services included in the proposed budget.
County Attorney Geri Bonzon-Keenan read the titles of Agenda Items E and F into the record.
Mr. Clodfelter announced the proposed Miami-Dade Fire and Rescue Service District operating millage was 2.3965 mills which was 10.44 percent (10.44%) above the state-defined rolled-back rate of 2.1699 mills. He stated the proposed millage rate would generate revenues for services included in the proposed budget.
County Attorney Geri Bonzon-Keenan read the title of Agenda Item G into the record.
Mr. Clodfelter announced the proposed Miami-Dade Library System operating millage was 0.2812 mills which was 10.31 percent (10.31%) above the state-defined rolled-back rate of 0.2549 mills. He stated the proposed millage rate would generate revenues for services included in the proposed budget.
County Attorney Geri Bonzon-Keenan read the title of Agenda Item H into the record, and advised there were additional amendments to the Mayor�s memorandum titled �Information for Second Budget Hearing � FY 2022-23 Proposed Budget� that needed to be read into the record.
Mr. Clodfelter advised the Mayor�s memorandum dated September 16, 2022, entitled �Information for Second Budget Hearing � FY 2022-23 Proposed Budget�, contained a scrivener�s error on Page 4; and the allocation of $150,000 to the Cuban American Bar Association Inc. should be corrected to read �The Cuban American Bar Association Pro Bono Project Inc.� for the same purpose.
Mr. Clodfelter announced the following amendments were also being made to Mayor�s memorandum:
~ On Page 3, Section C, �Infrastructure Project Programs� � The $3 million allocation to the City of North Miami for the construction of Cagney Park should read as follows: �$3 million to the City of North Miami to construct a community theatre�
~ On Page 3, Section C, �Infrastructure Project Programs� - The last sentence should be amended to read: �Additionally, while the Homeless Trust was provided $10 million through the HOMES plan and $6 from the Infrastructure Project Programs category, there remains a funding gap of $4 million to meet future capital needs that would be met in one of the following ways: (1) From unallocated $50.875 million which is currently set aside to provide match funding for Federal and State grant awards the Homeless Trust will be allocated up to $4 million of this funding; or (2) Repurposed Building Better Communities General Obligation Bond Program Fund based on availability with approval from the general obligation bond program community advisory committee and Board.
~ On Page 4, �Continuation of County Services� � The reference to the �Haitian Neighborhood Center Sant La, Inc.� should be removed
~ On Page 4, �Continuation of County Services� � The reference to �The Family Action Network Movement, Inc. for the provision of Temporary Protected Status Services� should be amended to read �The Family Action Network Movement, Inc. for the provision of immigration services�
~ On Page 4, �Continuation of County Services� � The allocation of $250,000 to Hispanic Unity Of Florida, Inc. for the provision of Temporary Protected Status Services should be amended to remove reference to �Hispanic Unity Of Florida, Inc. for the provision of Temporary Protected Status Services�
~ On Page 4, �Continuation of County Services� � The allocation of $250,000 to Catholic Charities Of The Archdiocese Of Miami, Inc. for the provision of Temporary Protected Status Services should be amended to read: �$1 million to the Catholic Legal Services Of The Archdiocese Of Miami, Inc. for the provision of immigration services.�
~ On Page 4, �Continuation of County Services� � The allocation of $250,000 to The Center for Haitian Studies Inc. to provide primary and specialty medical care to uninsured patients should be amended to read: �$500,000 to The Center for Haitian Studies Inc. to provide primary and specialty medical care to uninsured patients.�
~ On Page 4, �Continuation of County Services� � The allocation of $2.022 million for future budget shortfalls should be amended to read: �$1.772 million for future budget shortfalls.�
Commissioner Sosa thanked the administration and Miami-Dade firefighters for the aid provided to Puerto Rico following Hurricane Fiona, and extended an invitation to any interested County employees to contribute accrued holiday and annual leave time to the County's Emergency Disaster Relief Fund.
County Attorney Geri Bonzon-Keenan advised the Board members that the County Attorney's Office would prepare a formal motion for consideration and approval later in the meeting.
Chairman Diaz requested a meeting with Interim Chief Public Safety Officer Alfredo �Freddy� Ramirez III, to explore the possibility of partnering with the disaster relief nonprofit agency, Global Empowerment Mission (GEM), to schedule donation pick-ups from the County�s fire stations.
Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava advised that the administration had already contacted GEM regarding the partnership.
Chairman Diaz read a welcome statement into the record and reviewed the County Commission�s Rules of Decorum. He announced that the Chair's office was providing dinner to all staff members during tonight's (9/20) meeting, and thanked his colleagues, the administration and County staff for their continued hard work. Chairman Diaz requested speakers limit their comments to budget issues and encouraged them to be mindful of the two (2) minute time limit.
Following a request by Commissioner Regalado, a moment of silence was observed to recognize the passing of radio personality and owner of Cuban radio station �La Poderosa�, Mr. Jorge Rodriguez.
Commissioner Garcia stated that he was contacted by the family of the late Tomas Garcia Fueste regarding a road designation in commission district 5, and requested Commissioner Higgins include him as a co-prime sponsor on the item.
Chairman Diaz requested he be added as a co-sponsor on the road designation item as well.
Chairman Diaz opened the public hearing, and the following persons appeared before the Board:
1. Ms. Olivia Collins, CLEO Institute, 19985 NE 6th Court, Miami, Florida
2. Ms. Katrina Erwin, 1470 Baracoa Avenue, Palm Bay, Florida
3. Mr. Ian Quartin, 7525 SW 134th Street, Miami, Florida
4. Ms. Laura Reynolds, Friends of Biscayne Bay and Hold The Line Coalition, 6820 SW 64th Court, South Miami, Florida
5. Ms. Rachel Silverstein, Executive Director of Miami Waterkeeper, 220 Miracle Mile, Miami, Florida
6. Ms. Lavern Spicer, Executive Director, Curley�s House Food Bank, 6025 NW 6 Court, Miami, Florida
7. Ms. Sesley Mendoza, CABA Pro Brono Project, 811 Parma Avenue, Coral Gables, Florida
8. Ms. Samantha Barquin, Miami Waterkeeper, 12010 SW 105 Terrace, Miami, Florida
9. Ms. Jaimee Spector, Director of Advance & Donor Impact, Miami Waterkeeper, 1690 SW 27th Avenue, Miami, Florida
10. Ms. Sharon Fraizer-Stephens, 6324 NE 1st Place, Miami, Florida
11. Ms. Caroline Boyce, NAACP, 886 NW 77th Street, Miami, Florida
12. Mr. Theophilus Williams, 1391 NW 95th Street, Miami, Florida
13. Ms. Jenny Silver, 210 Miracle Mile, Miami Florida
14. Ms. Sandy Ala, Senior Director of Case Management Programs, Jewish Community Services, 1200 Biscayne Boulevard, Miami, Florida
15. Ms. Renee Pesci, Deputy Director, Arts and Business Council of Miami, 1637 SW 8th Street, Miami, Florida
16. Mr. Chris Lomax, President of Wilkie D. Ferguson, Jr., Bar Association, 95 Merrick Way, Coral Gables, Florida
17. Ms. Miriam Singer, President of Jewish Community Services, 12000 Biscayne Boulevard, Miami, Florida
18. Ms. Morgan Weinblatt, Director of Resource Development, Jewish Community Services, 12000 Biscayne Boulevard, Miami, Florida
19. Ms. Vicki Lopez, Agape Network and VLL Consulting LLC, 2101 Brickell Avenue, Suite 809, Miami, Florida
20. Ms. Marilyn Holifield, Miami Museum of Contemporary Art of African Diaspora, 701 Brickell Avenue, Miami, Florida
21. Ms. Shirley Richardson, The M Ensemble Company, 650 SW 124 Terrace, Apartment 405, Pembroke Pines, Florida
22. Mr. Kenneth Kilpatrick, President of Brownsfield Civic Neighborhood Association (BCNA), 5167 NW 22nd Avenue, Miami, Florida
23. Ms. Marya Meyer, The Women�s Fund Miami-Dade, 1781 Opechee Drive, Miami, Florida
24. Mr. Lejuane Wheeler, The 9 Marching Corps, 1682 NW 192nd Terrace, Miami, Florida
25. Ms. Marva Lightbourne, 5561 NN.W 7th Court, Miami, Florida
26. Mr. Maurice Woods, Easterseals South Florida, 2553 Jardin Manor, Weston, Florida
27. Madam Renita Holmes, address exempt.
28. Mr. Dave Doebler, Biscayne Bay Marine Health Coalition, 800 West Avenue, Miami, Florida
29. Mr. Eric Vergara, Service Employees International Union, 7244 SW 101 Court, Miami, Florida
30. Mr. David Peraza, Metrorail Security Officer, 13707 SW 66 Street, Miami, Florida
31. Ms. Judith Fuferfas, 9540 SW 26th Drive, Miami, Florida
32. Mr. Craig McQueen, Youth Football Alliance, 765 NW 36 Street, Miami, Florida
33. Ms. Anaruth Solache, on behalf of Catalyst Miami, 6776 NW 187th Terrace, Hialeah, Florida
34. Former Representative Roy Hardemon, Chairman of the Model City Advisory Board, 1292 NW 79th Street, Miami, Florida
35. Mr. Ron Book, Chairman, Homeless Trust, 18851 NE 28th Avenue, Aventura, Florida
36. Mr. Rafael Antonio Gomez, 7403 SW 82nd Street, Miami, Florida
37. Mr. Carl Bey, Veterans Business Coalition, 5150 NW 2nd Avenue, Miami, Florida
38. Ms. Patricia Wright, Executive Director, Inn Da House, Incorporated, 1221 NW 179th Street, Miami, Florida
39. Mr. Daniel Kleinman, Founder and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Seaworthy Collective, 31 NE 17th Street, Miami, Florida
40. Ms. Gloria Fonseca, The Women�s Fund, 640 NW 183rd Street, Miami Gardens, Florida
41. Ms. Victoria Worship, Girl Power Rocks Inc., 1600 NW 3rd Avenue, Miami, Florida
42. Mr. Clark Beasley, Development Director, Girl Power Rocks Inc., 6770 Indian Creek Drive, Miami Beach, Florida
43. Ms. Naed Jasmin Desire, Marketing and Communications Manager, Haitian American Chamber of Commerce of Florida, 10750 NW 6th Court, Miami, Florida
44. Ms. Kesha Guyton, Miami Workers Center, 17431 NW 42 Avenue, Miami, Florida
45. Ms. Ivory Johnson-Parker, Miami Workers Center, 1855 NW 74th Street, Miami, Florida
46. Ms. Lois Eudovique, Miami Workers Center, 1701 NW 2nd Court, Miami, Florida
47. Mr. Peter Whyte, Miami Workers Center, NW 17th Avenue, Miami, Florida
48. Ms. Faith Fisher, 1210 NE 110 St, Miami, Florida
49. Ms. Antoinette Thomas-Shorter, Miami Workers, 6412 NW 2nd Court, Miami, Florida
50. Ms. Shoshaua Nir, Taxi Owner Association, 3670 North Park Road, Hollywood, Florida
51. Ms. Mercedes Cabrera, Miami Workers Center, 3860 West 8th Way, Hialeah, Florida
52. Ms. Deisy Penton Cabrera, Miami Workers Center, 3860 West 8th Way, Hialeah, Florida
53. Ms. Zaney Marena Perez, The Allapattah Collaborative CDC, 2201 Ludlam Road, Miami, Florida
54. Mr. Santander Arguelles, Director of Economic Development, The Allapattah Collaborative CDC, 5271 SW 8th Street, Coral Gables, Florida
55. Mr. Daniel Balmori, Volunteer Lawyer, Friends of the Underline, 55 SE 6th Street, Miami, Florida
56. Mr. Steven Wernick, Volunteer Board Member of Friends of the Underline, 2501 Swanson Avenue, Miami, Florida
57. Ms. Dorothy J. Morrison, The Hampton House, 3535 NW 213th Street, Miami Gardens, Florida
58. Mr. Matthew Monica, Vice President of Governmental Affairs, Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce, 1 SE 3rd Avenue, Miami, Florida
59. Mr. Zach Spicer, Engage Miami, 863 NE 79th Street, Miami, Florida
60. Mr. Miguel Quintero, Owner and Operator of Miami Trapeze, 9651 NW 13th Avenue, Miami, Florida
61. Mr. Camilo Mejia, Network Director, Catalyst Miami, 3482 Frow Avenue, Miami, Florida
62. Ms. Brenda Betancourt, 1436 SW 6th Street, Miami, Florida
63. Mr. Clement Quinones, 6130 SW 62nd Place, South Miami, Florida
64. Ms. Vanessa Joseph, Catholic Legal Services, 28 West Flagler Street, Miami, Florida
65. Ms. Christine Rupp, Executive Director, Dade Heritage Trust, 190 SE 12thTerrace, Miami, Florida
66. Ms. Virama Oller, President for the Board of Directors for South Dade Veterans Alliance, 28910 SW 193 Avenue, Homestead, Florida
67. Mr. Jacqui Colyer, The Hampton House, 4240 NW 27th Avenue, Miami, Florida
68. Ms. Shalyn Fluharty, Executive Director, Americans for Immigrant Justice, 3655 NW 36th Avenue, Miami, Florida
69. Ms. Karina Pavone, Amigos for Kids, 2153 Coral Way, Miami, Florida
70. Ms. Martha Bueno, 12350 SW 45th Street, Miami, Florida
71. Ms. Grace Perdomo, Executive Director, Transit Alliance Miami, 902 Rodrigo Avenue, Coral Gables, Florida
72. Mr. Jonathan Gonzalez, Beyond the Bars, 1960 NE 168th Street, North Miami Beach, Florida
73. Mr. Zach Cosnet, Miami Climate Alliance, 7180 SW 114th Terrace, Pinecrest, Florida
74. Mr. Albert Gomez, 3566 Vista Court, Miami, Florida
75. Mr. Harold Jacobs, Football Coach, Gwen Cherry Organization, 2171 NW 47 Terrace, Miami, Florida
76. Mr. Benjamin Salz, Member of the Salvation Army National Advisory Board, 12454 SW 122nd Court, Miami, Florida
77. Mr. Baswell Donaldson, Kinad Incorporated, 2100, NW 192 Terrace, Miami, Florida
78. Ms. Shekina Dellmar-Donaldson, Kinad Incorporated and Annie Arthur and Delmar Invest Group LLC, 2100 NW 192nd Terrace, Miami Gardens, Florida
There being no other persons appearing to speak, Chairman Diaz closed the public hearing.
Commissioner Sosa moved to authorize and direct the County Mayor or County Mayor's designee to immediately allow County employees to contribute the monetary value of accrued holiday and annual leave time to the County's emergency disaster relief fund established by Resolution No. R-1071-05, up to a limit of $250,000.00, for the purpose of donating to Hurricane Fiona relief efforts in Puerto Rico, and to provide a report recommending donation options for the funds contributed. This motion was seconded by Chairman Diaz.
County Attorney Bonzon-Keenan recommended the vote be taken at the end of today�s (9/20) meeting.
Commissioner Heyman stated her intent to amend Agenda Items C, E and H to strike the portions related to the Ambassador Program, and to delete the proposed increase to the County Commissioners� Executive Benefits.
There being no other persons appearing to speak, Chairman Diaz closed the public hearing.
Mayor Levine Cava thanked today�s (9/20) speakers for taking the time to participate in the budget process, and noted the administration had hosted 27 community meetings to seek input from the public. Mayor Levine Cava recognized and commended all County staff and departments that were instrumental in preparing the 2022-23 Proposed Budget, particularly Mr. Clodfelter and Office of Policy and Budgetary Affairs (OPBA) staff.
Mayor Levine Cava reported the proposed budget sought to address the County�s biggest challenges to date, specifically affordability and the Housing Crisis. She stated the proposed budget would provide immediate relief to residents by offering the lowest tax rates since 1982, and included an investment of over $500 million to address the housing crisis. Mayor Levine Cava spoke about the County�s HOMES Plan and assured the Board members that their suggestions were well received by the administration, which led to the inclusion of additional guardrails to ensure a thorough oversight and monitoring process. She reported the scope of the Workforce Housing Incentive Program (WHIP) had been updated to dedicate $5 million to incentivize landlords to accept Section 8 vouchers; and advised the Board members that the administration would provide quarterly reports on all components of the HOMES Plan.
Mayor Levine Cava advised that the proposed budget not only supported, but enhanced critical community services such as public safety, resilience, and transit. She noted the County�s �Operation Community Shield� Program would be extended and the Strategic Miami Area Rapid Transit (SMART) Program proforma would be fully funded to leverage Federal and State funding. Mayor Levine Cava commented on the proposed infrastructural and resiliency investments and the importance of �matching funds� to secure grants.
Mayor Levine Cava reported the County had been awarded approximately $600 million in Federal and State grants, with additional applications pending for an estimated $353 million more in grant funding. She pointed out if the additional grants were awarded, the County would be required to provide matching funds. Mayor Levine Cava explained the funding would cover a range of projects including but not limited to: reinforcing structures vulnerable to sea level rise, mitigating flood risks, building rapid transit corridors, protecting environmentally endangered lands, purchasing electric buses, propelling PortMiami to net zero, and making �Vision Zero� roadway improvements.
Mayor Levine Cava stated that while the proposed budget contemplated the County�s future, it was crafted to address the County�s immediate concerns. She cited comments made by Commissioner Heyman regarding the County�s obligation to ensure residents could live, work and thrive in Miami-Dade; and emphasized that the proposed budget sought to do so by providing a $25 million tax cut to property owners, strengthening essential County services and addressing the affordable housing crisis.
Mayor Levine Cava concluded that the proposed budget was smart, compassionate, efficient and fiscally responsible; and would build a stronger and more resilient Miami-Dade County. She requested the Board�s support and welcomed additional discourse.
Commissioner Sosa pointed out that the final proposed budget would lower the previously set millage rate, something that had not been done in 10 (ten) years. She commended the administration on the creation of the �Love Fund� and for increasing the amounts provided to families of fallen officers. Commissioner Sosa commented on the merits of the proposed budget including the additional oversight and monitoring provisions included in the HOMES Program and the allocations to the Fire Department.
Discussion ensued between Commissioner Sosa and County Attorney Bonzon-Keenan regarding Commissioner Sosa�s intent to bifurcate Agenda Items C, E and H to vote separately on the Ambassador�s Program and salary components.
Commissioner Sosa stated that while she believed County commissioners should be properly compensated given the work load and time commitment, she could not support the increase at this time due to the lack of public input and transparency. She pointed out the salaries and retirement compensation for commissioners in other municipalities and jurisdictions far exceeded that of the County commission and reiterated her belief that the issue should be addressed at a later time following public input and engagement.
Commissioner Garcia thanked the public for appearing today (9/20) and participating in the budget process. He recognized the merits of the proposed budget, including the additional investments in programs addressing mental health, housing, the needs of vulnerable populations, and food insecurity in senior and disabled populations.
Commissioner Garcia voiced his concerns regarding the proposed rate increases for solid waste and water rates; and insisted that more could be done to further reduce the proposed millage rates. He commented on the rising cost of living and inflation, and contended the increased revenue generated from rising home values could be used to provide a three percent (3%) reduction in the millage rates without further fiscal impact to the proposed budget. Commissioner Garcia identified approximately $270 million in carry-over funding from the Solid Waste Department that could be reallocated and used to offset the fiscal impact of a three percent (3%) millage rate reduction.
Commissioner Garcia recognized the merits of the HOMES Plan and stated that while he was appreciative of the administration�s efforts to include additional auditing measures, he believed more streamlined reporting was needed to ensure commissioners were kept abreast of how the funds were allocated in their specific commission district.
Commissioner Garcia stated his intent to proffer amendments to the reporting component of the HOMES Plan and the proposed millage rate at the appropriate time.
Vice Chairman Gilbert III thanked the public for appearing today (9/20) and spoke about the importance of public engagement and participation in the budget process. He commented on the merits of the proposed budget and stated pursuant to discussion at the first budget hearing meeting (9/8), he had taken the opportunity to review the Ambassador and Executive Benefits programs. Vice Chairman Gilbert III pointed out that County commissioners� salary was $6,000, and contended that it was inaccurate to the categorize Executive Benefits as salary. He referenced the Mayor�s and County Attorney�s salaries, and maintained that Executive Benefits packages were expense accounts. Vice Chairman Gilbert III emphasized that the County commissioners� Executive Benefits package was never linked to the consumer price index (CPI) and did not factor in inflation. He pointed out that all County procurement contracts included �escalators� to account for increased costs during the term of the contract, and reiterated that the Executive Benefits package remained unchanged for the past 20 years. Vice Chairman Gilbert III disputed allegations that the Executives Benefit program was secretly included in the proposed budget, noting the item was published in the budget as part of the spending plan and read into the record pursuant to an oral motion.
Vice Chairman Gilbert III cited examples of instances when the County Commission took the necessary steps to adjust salaries and contract terms based on rising inflation and cost of goods; and argued that it was illogical to exclude the CPI when considering the Expense Benefits package. He urged his colleagues to be realistic in consideration of the facts and recognized that some may vote against the item based on political and electoral circumstances. Vice Chairman Gilbert III stated he supported the elimination of the Ambassador�s Program and pointed out the program was created in an attempt to restore equity to the County Commissioners� retirement system. He spoke about the process and formulae used to drive retirement systems and contended in this instance the formulae was not utilized but instead the figures were artificially suppressed by the implementation of a cap on the 401A retirement plan. Vice Chairman Gilbert III recommended the Board consider amending the Ambassador�s Program to reintroduce it as a Post Service Supplement, and to link the Executive Benefits package to the CPI. He emphasized the intent of the Post Service Supplement and modification of the Executive Benefits package was to make County commissioners whole and to be transparent in the process.
Chairman Diaz thanked Vice Chairman Gilbert III for his thorough review of the Ambassador and Executive Benefits programs.
Commissioner Regalado commented on misleading statements made by the administration and media as to the inclusion of the Ambassador and Executive Benefits programs in the proposed budget. She clarified that the Board never took a position on either issue at the last budget hearing (9/6); and pointed out that there were many County employees who already received executive benefits. Commissioner Regalado welcomed a more robust conversation on the executive benefits component, and opined previous policies regarding the 401A contribution had contributed to the confusion surrounding the matter. She reasoned the combined effect of the proposed increase to the 401A contribution amount and the executive benefit package resulted in the seemingly dramatic increase in the commissioners� compensation package which alarmed the public.
Commissioner Regalado pointed out that the Board members did not have an opportunity to review the benefits from the last budget hearing and noted that while arguments could be made to support some of the increases in the compensation, she did not support the way the increases were drafted in the proposed budget. She stated however that she would support including the increased pay rate in the ballot, as was required by the County Charter.
Commissioner Regalado commented that the pay rate for County Commissioners was stagnant and reviewed the pay rate system used by the Miami-Dade School Board (School Board).
Commissioner Regalado stated that while she recognized previous Board members did not have adequate retirement compensation packages, she could not support the Ambassador�s program because she did not understand its purpose. She concluded that previous commissioners should have addressed the issue at past budget hearings.
Commissioner Regalado expressed her support for the amendments proffered by Commissioner Garcia�s with regards to Agenda Items C and E. She voiced concerns that the proposed budget did not adequately reduce taxes for County residents. She acknowledged that the millage rate was at its lowest level in 40 years, but residents were paying more in taxes. She proposed the millage rate be should be reduced, which would not increase the residents� tax rate.
Commissioner Regalado acknowledged that the County Mayor made valid changes in the HOMES program and the County�s infrastructure, including more funding for the County�s septic-to-sewer conversion but stated the Board members needed more information about the project.
Commissioner Regalado voiced her concerns regarding the proposed area median income (AMI), specifically the Workforce Housing Incentive Program (WHIP); which she noted she voted against in past budget hearings. She pointed out that while the proposed budget�s Plan 8 partially addressed housing issues for residents earning less than $32,000 annually, residents who earned less than $65,000 annually continued to encounter problems with finding affordable housing options.
Commissioner Regalado opined that the increased amount of affordable housing developments should alleviate issues with workforce housing in the County.
Acknowledging that there were not enough votes in the Board to lower the millage rate, Commissioner Regalado proposed as an alternative option, to support Commissioner McGhee�s proposed item regarding the �Save Our Seniors� organization. She pointed out that research showed the proposal was feasible and could be done this in 2022. Commissioner Regalado further reported that over 37,000 low-income senior residents in the County received senior exemption rebates of $100, and explained that increasing this amount to $200, per senior resident, as proposed in Commissioner McGhee�s item, would only cost the County $3,000,000 annually.
Commissioner Higgins spoke Commissioners expenses compared to compensation and concluded increasing the wages for commissioners was a valid topic to discuss.
Commissioner Higgins contended putting the compensation question on the ballot would not suffice because previous ballot measures had failed. She stated that while the Board was being transparent in their consideration of the item, the manner in which the item was added to the budget was not transparent. Commissioner Higgins advised that she had met with the Administration several times before today�s hearing, but she had not been informed about the proposed increase to compensation.
Commissioner Higgins inquired about the funding for tree canopy in the County and spoke about the importance of trees being planted in low-income communities. She stated her intent to introduce legislation to address the issue.
Regarding the Housing Inflation Fund (HIF), Commissioner Higgins stated that while it was designated for County funded projects, there were projects in her district that could not access the HIF because the projects were not publicly funded; and asked the County Attorney�s Office if the regulations about the HIF could be amended.
County Attorney Bonzon-Keenan informed Commissioner Higgins that an amendment would be drafted for the Development Inflation Adjustment Fund (DIAF) to address her concerns about providing funding for the projects that did not use public funding.
Commissioner Higgins opined that reserve funding for the Miami-Dade Department of Solid Waste Management (SWM) should not be re-allocated elsewhere. She mentioned that SWM�s Resources Recovery Facility needed to be rebuilt and the reserve funds were needed for a suitable interest rate to meet the debt-bonding requirement of the project.
Commissioner Heyman supported the proposed budget, but expressed her concerns about the public�s perception that the budget was drafted in a covert manner. She concurred with Commissioner Regalado�s comments that the issue of increasing compensation for commissioners should have been addressed by previous commissioners and spoke about how she discovered the item was included in the budget.
Commissioner Monestime noted that County residents supported the proposed budget and he recognized its merits, as well. He opined that the budget was well balanced compared to previous budgets, which had not addressed the public�s needs.
Commissioner Monestime agreed with Commissioner Souto�s statement made during the First Budget Hearing that the proposed budget included ample funds. He indicated his commitment to working on improving compensation for public servants after he left office.
Commissioner Monestime stated his intent to reallocate funds for the North Miami Learn to Swim Program, which he wished to rename after Ms. Alicia Lucien, a teenager who passed away because she did not know how to swim.
Commissioner Hardemon voiced concerns regarding the other Commissioners� stance against immediately increasing their wages. He argued the current salary was not a fair wage and added that the situation needed to be rectified as soon as possible. He urged his colleagues not in agreement to not to impede the efforts to increase the salaries.
Chairman Diaz expressed his appreciation to Vice Chairman Gilbert III and previous Commissioners for their efforts to address the issue of increasing the Commissioners� wages. He noted that the media had unfairly presented these efforts in a negative way and admitted that in the past he also did not address the issue. Chairman Diaz commented on the merits of the item and stated it was time to rectify the situation for future Commissioners.
Ms. Jennifer Moon, Chief, Office of Policy and Budgetary Affairs (OPBA), explained to Chairman Diaz that when the Executive Benefits Program for government employees� 401A benefits package was first provided, elected officials were not included. She further clarified that in 2001, the program was changed to provide a $10,000 contribution cap for elected officials, and she noted that a formula was not applied to calculate the contribution. Ms. Moon added that when calculations were done to adjust the other elements of the Executive Benefits Package, it was determined that a formula should apply to every element of the benefits package.
Chairman Diaz expressed the need to improve the salaries for future Board members because of the demanding nature of their work and time commitments.
Chairman Diaz announced that several amendments would be read into the record, with one of them being a request by the City of Sweetwater for increased communications support and devices, which he supported.
Commissioner Sosa reminded the Board members that she bifurcated the Ambassador and Executive Benefits Program of the pay plan from several items.
Commissioner Souto indicated his support for increasing the wages for the County�s Commissioners and pointed out that Miami-Dade County was the only County in Florida that did not recognize the work done by its Board members, despite being a leading economic force in the State. He recounted that Board members in other Counties had higher salaries and agreed that this was unfair to Miami-Dade elected officials. Commissioner Souto cautioned that the Commissioners� low wages left them vulnerable to influences from other parties, and also noted that the low wage rate made it difficult to recruit well-qualified people to engage in public service.
|
|
|
ITEM A
|
|
| |
221937
|
Ordinance
 Clerk's Official Copy
|
|
| |
|
| |
ORDINANCE APPROVING, ADOPTING AND RATIFYING THE MILLAGE FOR COUNTYWIDE GENERAL FUND OPERATING PURPOSES FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCING OCTOBER 1, 2022 AND ENDING SEPTEMBER 30, 2023; LEVYING ALL TAXES SO PROVIDED; PROVIDING SEVERABILITY, EXCLUSION FROM THE CODE AND AN EFFECTIVE DATE(Office of Management and Budget)
|
Adopted
Ordinance 22-110
Mover: Eileen Higgins
Seconder: Oliver G. Gilbert, III
Vote: 11 - 1
No: Garc�a
|
| |
REPORT:
County Attorney Geri Bonzon-Keenan read the title of the foregoing proposed ordinance into the record and noted Commissioner Garcia�s intent to proffer an amendment.
Mr. David Clodfelter, Director, Miami-Dade Office of Management and Budget (OMB), read into the record the proposed millage for Countywide General Fund Operating Purposes for the Fiscal Year commencing October 1, 2022, and ending September 30, 2023, as outlined in the foregoing proposed ordinance.
Commissioner Garcia moved to amend Fiscal Year (FY) 2022-23 Countywide Operating millage rate to increase the proposed millage rate reduction of one percent (1%) by an additional two percent (2%) for a total of three percent (3%) millage rate reduction, and use as a funding source the $40 million designated for a loan to the Solid Waste Department from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) in the General Revenue Fund. This motion was seconded by Commissioner Regalado; and the floor was opened for discussion.
Commissioner Garcia noted staff had identified a $40 million funding allocation made from the ARPA General Revenue Fund designed for a loan to the Solid Waste Department and stated that the department should utilize its own funds for the intended use of the loan. He contended the $40 million could be utilized to fund his proposed three percent (3%) millage rate property tax reduction and provide meaningful property tax relief to taxpayers without affecting any of the proposed budget allocation.
Mr. Clodfelter advised the proposed Fiscal Year (FY) 2022-23 Countywide Operating millage rate was-4.5269 mills, which was 7.93 percent of the state-defined rolled-back rate of 4.1944 mills; and the proposed millage rate generated insufficient revenues to support the services included in the proposed budget. He stated that an adjustment of $33.494 million would be required to balance the budget.
Mayor Daniella Levine Cava clarified that the $40 million was sourced by a one-time ARPA funding allocation to address the department�s solid waste collection funds shortfalls. She noted the shortfall would significantly impact County-wide garbage collection services and illegal dumping enforcement. Mayor Levine Cava further clarified that the proffered amendment could impact the County�s future fiscal stability based on future budget cutbacks in critical services, or an increase in property taxes as soon as 2024. She noted that the memorandum dated August 23, 2022, from the Office of Policy and Budgetary Affairs (OPBA), mentioned that the County Administration could ignore the risk of facing an economic downturn and stated that a large millage rate cutback combined with the downturn could also have a devastating budgetary impact and force the Board to make more difficult decisions in the future. Mayor Levine Cava advised that the County had relied significantly on federal relief funds to make the County�s budget whole and sustain vital services, and all funds would be fully spent within the next two (2) years. She stated the administration did not believe it was sound fiscal policy to increase the millage rate cutback percentage and noted the proposed budget addressed current needs, provided millage rate relief at this time, ensured adequate solid waste services, provided other vital services, and ensured that the County could continue to balance the budget in future years.
Referencing the amendment proffered by Commissioner Garcia, Commissioner Sosa stated her intent to request the administration to read into the record every line item impacted by Commissioner Garcia�s amendment if it were approved. She commented that her main concerns were the public�s interests and maintaining a balanced budget that did not impact the County�s vital services and County employees. Commissioner Sosa pointed out that the County needed to adopt conservative policies, and the ARPA funds would be unavailable next year to balance the budget.
Commissioner Regalado stated that while it would be ideal to return funds to the taxpayers; she believed the Board would be unsupportive of the amendment based on the Board�s previous action at the July 2022 Board meeting and the first budget hearing.
Commissioner Regalado spoke about the financial challenges facing residents due to rising property taxes, homeowners insurance, and inflation. She voiced her concerns that these increased costs would lead to taxpayers losing their homes, and noted the increased costs would continue to be passed down to tenants and consumers. Commissioner Regalado indicated her support for the amendment proffered by Commissioner Garcia to lower the proposed millage rate by three percent (3%); or in the alternative reduce the millage rate by two percent (2%) if the proposed three percent (3%) failed.
Commissioner Regalado voiced her support for the proposed County-wide senior property tax exemption since seniors were unable to downsize and had no other relocation options due to the real estate price increases. She stated that the senior property tax exemption should be increased to at least $200.
In regards to Commissioner Monestime�s question, County Attorney Bonzon-Keenan clarified the mileage rate could be lowered at the second budget hearing but not increased. She confirmed that the amendment before the Board was to reduce the millage rate, which was an appropriate motion at the second budget hearing.
Commissioner Monestime voiced his disagreement with the County Attorney�s opinion due to the number of budgetary adjustments it would cause.
In response to Commissioner Heyman�s question, Mayor Levine Cava advised that budget cutbacks in services and programs would have to be made if the Board approved an additional two percent (2%) to the proposed millage rate reduction.
Commissioner Garcia urged the administration to be transparent and argued the administration�s representations regarding budget adjustments would be accurate if the amendment did not identify a funding source. He reiterated that the amendment identified a funding source, and the Department of Solid Waste should borrow the $40 million from the unused $237 million available in their department�s budget. Commissioner Garcia pointed out that his amendment did not affect any line budget items, funded organizations, or home projects.
In regards to Commissioner Garcia�s proposed amendment, Mr. Clodfelter requested the Board recess the meeting to allow staff the time to review Agenda Item C to determine the details of the amendment�s impact on solid waste�s collection and disposal funds, should the amendment be approved by the Board.
Commissioner Garcia pointed out that the administration was concerned about property values decreasing in the future and argued that no information had been provided to forecast such fall, but instead the County continued to benefit from increasing property values.
Discussion ensued among the Board members and County Attorney Bonzon-Keenan regarding the TRIM notice process particularly with regards to the proposed millage rate reduction.
Upon conclusion of the foregoing discussion, Commissioner Garcia moved to amend the foregoing item to further reduce the Countywide Operating millage by an additional two percent (2%), for a total of a three percent (3%) off of the Fiscal Year 2021-2022 millage rates. This motion was seconded by Commissioner Regalado and upon being put to a vote, failed by a vote of 2-10 (Chairman Diaz, Vice Chairman Gilbert III, Commissioners Cohen Higgins, Hardemon, Heyman, Higgins, McGhee, Monestime, Sosa and Souto voted �no�).
Commissioner Regalado moved to amend the foregoing item to further reduce the Countywide Operating millage by an additional one percent (1%), for a total of a two percent (2%) off of the Fiscal Year 2021-2022 millage rates. This motion was seconded by Commissioner Garcia, and the floor was opened for discussion.
Mr. Clodfelter advised the proposed FY2022-23 Countywide Operating millage rate was 4.5736 mills, which was 9.04 percent above the state-defined rolled-back rate of 4.1944. The proposed millage rate failed to generate sufficient revenues to support services included in the proposed budget, and a budget adjustment of $16.729 million would be required to balance the budget. He noted that the budget adjustments would be read into the record when Agenda Item C was considered.
Upon conclusion of the foregoing discussion, the motion to amend Fiscal Year (FY) 2022-23 Countywide Operating millage rate to increase the proposed millage rate reduction of one percent (1%) by an additional one percent (1%) for a total of two percent (2%) millage rate reduction was put to a vote; and the motion failed by a vote of 2-10 (Chairman Diaz, Vice Chairman Gilbert, III, Commissioners Cohen Higgins, Hardemon, Heyman, Higgins, McGhee, Monestime, Sosa, and Souto voted �no�).
It was moved by Commissioner Higgins that the Board of County Commissioners adopt Agenda Item A, as proposed. This motion was seconded by Vice Chairman Gilbert, Ill; and the floor was opened for discussion.
Mr. Clodfelter advised the proposed FY 2022-23 Countywide Operating millage rate was 4.6206 mills, which was 10.15 percent above the state-defined rolled-back rate of 4.1944 mills. The proposed millage rate generated revenues to support services included in the proposed budget.
Upon conclusion of the foregoing discussion, the Board members proceeded to vote on the foregoing proposed ordinance, as presented.
|
|
| |
9/8/2022
Adopted on first reading by the Board of County Commissioners
|
|
|
ITEM B
|
|
| |
221938
|
Ordinance
Clerk's Official Copy
|
|
| |
|
| |
ORDINANCE APPROVING, ADOPTING AND RATIFYING THE MILLAGE FOR COUNTYWIDE BONDED DEBT SERVICE FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCING OCTOBER 1, 2022 AND ENDING SEPTEMBER 30, 2023; LEVYING ALL TAXES SO PROVIDED; PROVIDING SEVERABILITY, EXCLUSION FROM THE CODE AND AN EFFECTIVE DATE(Office of Management and Budget)
|
Adopted
Ordinance 22-111
Mover: Sally A. Heyman
Seconder: Rebeca Sosa
Vote: 12 - 0
|
| |
REPORT:
County Attorney Geri Bonzon-Keenan read the title of the foregoing proposed ordinance into the record.
Mr. David Clodfelter, Director, Miami-Dade Office of Management and Budget (OMB), read into the record the proposed millage for Countywide Bonded Debt Service for the Fiscal Year commencing October 1, 2022, and ending September 30, 2023, as outlined in the foregoing proposed ordinance for the various County entities.
There being no further questions or comments, the Board proceeded to vote on the foregoing ordinance, as presented.
|
|
| |
9/8/2022
Adopted on first reading by the Board of County Commissioners
|
|
|
ITEM C
|
|
| |
222072
|
Ordinance
|
|
| |
|
| |
ORDINANCE APPROVING AND ADOPTING THE COUNTYWIDE GENERAL FUND BUDGET FOR MIAMI-DADE COUNTY, FLORIDA, FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCING OCTOBER 1, 2022 AND ENDING SEPTEMBER 30, 2023; PROVIDING A SHORT TITLE; INCORPORATING THE FISCAL YEAR 2022-23 PROPOSED BUDGET AS AMENDED; APPROPRIATING ALL BUDGETED REVENUES AND EXPENDITURES; AUTHORIZING THE INVESTMENT OF COUNTY FUNDS IN THE TIME WARRANTS OF MIAMI-DADE COUNTY; AUTHORIZING THE TRANSFER OF FUNDS AS CASH ADVANCES PENDING RECEIPT OF TAXES OR OTHER REVENUES; AUTHORIZING DEPOSIT OF INTEREST EARNED TO THE GENERAL FUND; RATIFYING, CONFIRMING AND APPROVING IMPLEMENTING ORDERS AND OTHER ACTIONS OF THE BOARD WHICH SET FEES, RATES, AND CHARGES; AUTHORIZING FEES, RATES, AND CHARGES CONSISTENT WITH APPROPRIATIONS, AND PROVIDING FOR THEIR AMENDMENT AND AUTHORIZING SUBSEQUENT AMENDMENTS BY RESOLUTION; AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR OR MAYOR�S DESIGNEE TO NEGOTIATE AND EXECUTE CERTAIN FUNDING AGREEMENTS; WAIVING FOR FISCAL YEAR 2022-23 PROVISIONS OF THE CODE AND RESOLUTIONS REQUIRING EXECUTION OF COUNTY AFFIDAVITS FOR NON-PROFITS RECEIVING CERTAIN COUNTY FUNDING; AMENDING SECTION 1-4.3 OF THE CODE OF MIAMI-DADE COUNTY, FLORIDA RELATING TO PROCUREMENT MANAGEMENT FUNCTIONS; AMENDING, WAIVING OR RESCINDING, IF NECESSARY, VARIOUS SECTIONS OF THE CODE, APPLICABLE IMPLEMENTING ORDERS, AND OTHER LEGISLATIVE ENACTMENTS TO CONFORM SUCH ENACTMENTS TO THE FISCAL YEAR 2022-23 BUDGET; SUPERSEDING CONFLICTING PROVISIONS OF PRIOR LEGISLATIVE ENACTMENTS; AND PROVIDING SEVERABILITY, EXCLUSION FROM AND INCLUSION IN THE CODE AND AN EFFECTIVE DATE [SEE ORIGINAL ITEM UNDER FILE NO. 221939](Office of Management and Budget)
|
Amended
|
| |
REPORT:
See Agenda Item C Amended, Legislative File No. 222360 for the final amended version.
|
|
| |
9/8/2022
Bifurcated, adopted on first reading as amended by the Board of County Commissioners
|
|
|
ITEM C AMENDED
|
|
| |
222360
|
Ordinance
Clerk's Official Copy
|
|
| |
|
| |
ORDINANCE APPROVING AND ADOPTING THE COUNTYWIDE GENERAL FUND BUDGET FOR MIAMI-DADE COUNTY, FLORIDA, FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCING OCTOBER 1, 2022 AND ENDING SEPTEMBER 30, 2023; PROVIDING A SHORT TITLE; INCORPORATING THE FISCAL YEAR 2022-23 PROPOSED BUDGET AS AMENDED; APPROPRIATING ALL BUDGETED REVENUES AND EXPENDITURES; AUTHORIZING THE INVESTMENT OF COUNTY FUNDS IN THE TIME WARRANTS OF MIAMI-DADE COUNTY; AUTHORIZING THE TRANSFER OF FUNDS AS CASH ADVANCES PENDING RECEIPT OF TAXES OR OTHER REVENUES; AUTHORIZING DEPOSIT OF INTEREST EARNED TO THE GENERAL FUND; RATIFYING, CONFIRMING AND APPROVING IMPLEMENTING ORDERS AND OTHER ACTIONS OF THE BOARD WHICH SET FEES, RATES, AND CHARGES; AUTHORIZING FEES, RATES, AND CHARGES CONSISTENT WITH APPROPRIATIONS, AND PROVIDING FOR THEIR AMENDMENT AND AUTHORIZING SUBSEQUENT AMENDMENTS BY RESOLUTION; AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR OR MAYOR�S DESIGNEE TO NEGOTIATE AND EXECUTE CERTAIN FUNDING AGREEMENTS; WAIVING FOR FISCAL YEAR 2022-23 PROVISIONS OF THE CODE AND RESOLUTIONS REQUIRING EXECUTION OF COUNTY AFFIDAVITS FOR NON-PROFITS RECEIVING CERTAIN COUNTY FUNDING; AMENDING SECTION 1-4.3 OF THE CODE OF MIAMI-DADE COUNTY, FLORIDA RELATING TO PROCUREMENT MANAGEMENT FUNCTIONS; AMENDING, WAIVING OR RESCINDING, IF NECESSARY, VARIOUS SECTIONS OF THE CODE, APPLICABLE IMPLEMENTING ORDERS, AND OTHER LEGISLATIVE ENACTMENTS TO CONFORM SUCH ENACTMENTS TO THE FISCAL YEAR 2022-23 BUDGET; SUPERSEDING CONFLICTING PROVISIONS OF PRIOR LEGISLATIVE ENACTMENTS; AND PROVIDING SEVERABILITY, EXCLUSION FROM AND INCLUSION IN THE CODE AND AN EFFECTIVE DATE [ SEE AGENDA ITEMS NOS. 221939 AND 222072](Office of Management and Budget)
|
Adopted as amended
Ordinance 22-112
Mover: Eileen Higgins
Seconder: Rebeca Sosa
Vote: 11 - 1
No: Garc�a
|
| |
REPORT:
County Attorney Geri Bonzon-Keenan read the title of the foregoing proposed ordinance into the record. She noted that the foregoing item was amended to incorporate the Mayor�s second changes memorandum which, was further amended to include the changes announced by Mr. David Clodfelter, Director, Miami-Dade Office of Management and Budget (OMB), at the beginning of today�s (9/20) meeting. County Attorney Bonzon-Keenan advised that there were several proffered amendments to be read into the record, and noted that Commissioners Sosa and Heyman had requested to bifurcate Section 9 (County Ambassador Program) of the foregoing ordinance.
County Attorney Geri Bonzon-Keenan read the following statement regarding Vice Chairman Gilbert�s III, proposed creation of the Post-Service Supplement Program into the record:
�The Post-Service Supplement Program (the �Program�) is hereby created for the purpose of providing former, elected County Commissioners with opportunities for compensation of up to $25,000.00 per fiscal year, adjusted beginning in fiscal year 2023-24 by a consumer price index determined by the County Mayor or Mayor�s designee to be most appropriate, for services to be rendered or for other such public purposes as may be permitted by law. Persons eligible to participate in the Program shall be any person who meets all the following criteria: (a) is a former County Commissioner; (b) completed at least one, full four-year term prior to December 31, 2020; (c) left office in good standing, as determined by the County Mayor or Mayor�s designee; and (d) has income of 120% or less of area median income, adjusted for size. The maximum number of years a person may be eligible to participate in the Program shall be equal to the lesser of: the number they served as a County Commissioner, or 8 years. The County Mayor or Mayor�s designee is hereby directed, authorized and delegated the authority to (x) design and administer the Program in accordance with applicable law; (y) negotiate, approve, and execute any required agreements with Program participants , subject to annual appropriations, following approval by the County Attorney for form and legal sufficiency, and (z) enforce all provisions contained therein.�
Vice Chairman Gilbert III, explained the intent of the proffered amendment was to correct a wrong imposed on former commissioners in past years. He stated the amendment would provide a $25,000 compensation to County Commissioners who exited office from the Board of County Commissioners and had served the full office term prior to 2020 due to their retirement formula being suppressed. He further explained that it calculated the Median Income to qualify for the benefit.
Vice Chairman Gilbert, III, moved to amend the foregoing Agenda Item C to: (1) delete the Miami-Dade County Ambassador Program (the �Program�); and (2) add and create the Post-Service Supplement Program (the �Program�) for former, elected County Commissioners to be administered by the County Mayor or Mayor�s designee. The Program shall be funded from the Support Staff Services allocation in the Board of County Commissioners� Operating Budget. This motion was seconded by Commissioner Hardemon, and the floor was opened for discussion.
Vice Chairman Gilbert, III, explained his amendment corrected a wrong imposed on former county commissioners in past years; and it would provide a $25,000 compensation to those county commissioners who exited the office and had served the full office term prior to the year 2020 due to the suppression of the retirement formula. He further explained that it calculated the Area Median Income (AMI) to qualify for the benefit, and similar benefits were in place for other County employees except for county commissioners.
In response to Commissioner Heyman�s questions regarding the amendment�s economic impact and the number of commissioners that would receive the benefit, Vice Chairman Gilbert, III, explained the post-service supplement payment was limited to a maximum of eight (8) post-service years if the former commissioner qualified based on the AMI criteria.
Commissioner Heyman stated she could not support the proffered amendment.
Commissioner Sosa indicated she also could not support the proffered amendment because the financial impact was unknown. She stated she would prefer to use the funds to lower the millage rate or provide other critical services.
Vice Chairman Gilbert III, pointed out it was a voluntary benefit, and reiterated the purpose of the amendment.
Upon conclusion of the foregoing discussion on Vice Chairman Gilbert�s III, amendment, the motion to amend the foregoing item to (1) Delete the County Ambassador Program (the �Program�); and (2) Add and create the Post-Service Supplement Program (the �Program�) for former, elected County Commissioners to be administered by the County Mayor or Mayor�s designee. The Program shall be funded from the Support Staff Services allocation in the Board of County Commissioners� operating budget was put to a vote, and failed by a vote of 5-7 (Chairman Diaz and Commissioners Cohen Higgins, Garcia, Heyman, Higgins, Regalado, and Sosa voted �No�).
Commissioner Garcia proffered an amendment to Agenda Item C to include in the HOMES Plan audit provisions the following information to establish certain standards and guidelines:
1. Number of applicants;
2. Analysis or review undertaken of eligibility requirements and criteria for each of the program and components thereof;
3. Vetting process undertaken for selection and eligibility of applicants;
4. Number of awardees/recipients (whether individuals, developers, landlords, property owners) in total and disaggregated by each commission district;
5. The funding amount provided to each of the awardees/recipients and for what purpose including the specific expense for which the monies were used;
6. Amount spent per each of the components of the programs;
7. Reporting of all compliance oversight undertaken by staff or third parties for each of the programs and reporting of all instances of non-compliance by awardees/recipients with the requirements of each of the programs;
8. Data to evidence the effectiveness of the various programs; and
9. For the Workforce Housing Incentive Program (WHIP), in addition to the above, the number of additional units added to the inventory of housing units.
Commissioner Garcia advised that the proposed amendment would add additional accountability, standards, and guidelines to ensure the programs were audited in a more comprehensive manner and ensure the funds were effectively utilized.
Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava advised that Commissioner Garcia�s proffered amendment was acceptable to the administration and would be incorporated into the program�s guidelines whether or not it was voted on. She also advised that Commissioner Higgins had a recommendation relating to the Development Inflation Adjustment Fund contained within the HOMES Plan that would allow for those dollars to also be used for affordable and workforce housing programs and not just to finalize funding for programs funded through the SURTAX Program. Mayor Levine Cava noted Commissioner Higgins� recommendation was also acceptable to the County Administration and could be incorporated into the proposed budget without an amendment.
Commissioner Regalado suggested the Development Inflation Adjustment Fund (DIAF) should be distributed equitably among each of the County Commission districts.
Commissioner Higgins suggested the monies from the DIAF should be distributed by to projects as needed.
Discussion ensued among the Board members regarding how the DIAF should be distributed.
As requested by Mayor Levine Cava and Commissioner Higgins, County Attorney Bonzon-Keenan announced Commissioner Higgins moved to amend Attachment A of the second changes memo so that the eligibility criteria for the Development Inflation Adjustment Fund may be modified by resolution or motion by the Board of County Commissioners (Board), if found to be in the best interest of the public. This motion was seconded by Commissioner Sosa, and upon being put to a vote, passed by a vote of 12-0.
Commissioner Regalado commented there was a need to separate the DIAF from the Affordable Housing Trust Fund projects since both programs were working on similar projects and requested to be given an explanation.
Mayor Levine Cava clarified the HOMES Plan was unrelated to the Affordable Housing Trust Fund Program and advised that Commissioner Garcia�s and Higgins� amendments would be incorporated into the HOMES Plan reporting provisions.
Commissioner Garcia moved to further amend the foregoing item to require the County Mayor or Mayor�s designee to provide quarterly reports to the Board, without committee review, at each of the next regularly scheduled Board meetings immediately following January 1, 2023, April 1, 2023, July 1, 2023 and October 1, 2023; in addition to providing the following information for each of the HOMES programs:
1. Number of applicants;
2. Analysis or review undertaken of eligibility requirements and criteria for each of the program and components thereof;
3. Vetting process undertaken for selection and eligibility of applicants;
4. Number of awardees/recipients (whether individuals, developers, landlords, property owners) in total and disaggregated by each commission district;
5. How much provided to each of the awardees/recipients and for what purpose including the specific expense for which the monies were used;
6. Amount spent per each of the components of the programs;
7. Reporting of all compliance oversight undertaken by staff or third parties for each of the programs and reporting of all instances of non-compliance by awardees/recipients with the requirements of each of the programs;
8. Data to evidence the effectiveness of the various programs; and
9. For the Workforce Housing Incentive Program (WHIP), in addition to the above, the number of additional units added to the inventory of housing units.
This motion was seconded by Commissioner Sosa, and upon being put to a vote, passed by a vote of 12-0.
Discussion ensued between the Board members and Mayor Levine Cava regarding how the SURTAX affordable housing funds and HOMES Plan funds were used.
Pursuant to Commissioner Regalado�s inquiries relating to the difference between affordable housing and HOMES Plan funds, Mr. Michael Liu, Director of the Public Housing and Community Development (PHCDD), explained in detail how the funds could be used.
Commissioner Garcia moved to further amend the foregoing item to require that for the $25 million portion of the HOMES program that is for Mortgage and Utilities relief for struggling homeowners, that the program prioritize those Miami-Dade County homeowners at or below 80% of Area Median Income (�AMI�) for the Utilities relief component of the plan, as follows:
1. While the County can accept applications from all eligible persons, for the first 10 months of the fiscal year � or up until August 1, 2023 � only those persons with incomes at or below 80% of the AMI, adjusted for family size, may receive financial assistance.
2. After August 1, 2023, the County may provide financial assistance to all other eligible persons with any funds remaining in the program.
3. The County Mayor or Mayor�s designee may adjust the 80% of AMI threshold, with prior Board approval, if the data and demand, as documented and reported to the Board in the quarterly reports, demonstrates that such action is necessary.
Mayor Levine Cava advised the County Administration would accept and incorporate Commissioner Garcia�s amendment.
Commissioner Hardemon commented every program in Miami-Dade County prioritized families with the lowest income, and he believed relief should also be given to people who had an income at or above the median income and resided in areas of the County where the majority of families had an income below the median to avoid the encouragement of poverty.
Discussion ensued among the Board members and Mayor Levine Cava regarding the AMI amount, the various family levels to qualify for the assistance, the two AMI levels, and the flexibility of Commissioner Garcia�s amendment.
Commissioner Regalado suggested Commissioner Garcia�s amendment apply only to the utility relief section.
Commissioner Garcia accepted Commissioner Regalado�s amendment.
Commissioner Regalado recommended the County develop a paper application for families to apply for the mortgage and utility relief programs, including the rental relief program, with a cap and priority implemented on the rental relief program.
Discussion ensued among the Board members and Mayor Levine Cava regarding the AMI, the average income in the County, and the WHIP Program.
Pursuant to Commissioner Sosa�s question, Mayor Levine Cava clarified the County Administration only approved the original amendment proffered by Commissioner Garcia.
Upon conclusion of the foregoing discussion, Commissioner Garcia�s and Regalado�s amendments were put to a roll call vote and failed by a vote of 4-8 (Chairman Diaz, Vice Chairman Gilbert, III, and Commissioners Cohen Higgins, Heyman, Higgins, McGhee, Sosa, and Souto voted �No�).
Commissioner Hardemon moved to amend the foregoing item to approve an additional allocation of $25,000 to the Latinos United & Action Center, Inc., a Florida Nonprofit corporation; for after-school programs for children, to be funded from the future budget shortfalls reserve. This motion was seconded by Commissioner Cohen Higgins, and upon being put to a vote, passed by a vote of 12-0. (NOTE: this motion is also applicable to Agenda Item H.)
Commissioner Monestime moved to amend the foregoing item to (1) remove an allocation in the amount of $300,000 from the Miami Rescue Plan (Continuation of County Services) to be used to replace non-native trees in Arch Creek East Preserve Park, included as part of the Mayor�s Memorandum dated September 2, 2022, entitled �Information for First Budget Hearing � FY 2022-23 Proposed Budget� and (2) Amend the allocation set forth in the Mayor�s Memorandum dated September 2, 2022, entitled �Information for First Budget Hearing � FY 2022-23 Proposed Budget� to the Miami Museum of Contemporary Art of the African Diaspora (MoCAAD) in the amount of $100,000 from the Miami Rescue Plan (Continuation of County Services), to clarify that the entity to receive the funds is the Miami-Dade North Arts & Humanities Foundation, Inc. which is registered to do business as MoCAAD and to increase the allocation to $200,000; and (3) Approve an allocation in the amount of $200,000 from the Miami Rescue Plan (Continuation of County Services) to the City of North Miami for the North Miami Learn to Swim Program. This motion was seconded by Vice Chairman Gilbert III, and upon being put to a vote, passed by a vote of 12-0. (NOTE: this motion is also applicable to Agenda Items E and H.)
Chairman Diaz relinquished the chair to Vice Chairman Gilbert, III.
Chairman Diaz moved to amend the foregoing item to allocate $650,000 from unallocated funds in the Infrastructure Project Programs in the Miami-Dade Rescue Plan to the City of Sweetwater to be used for the purchase of public safety equipment. This motion was seconded by Commissioner Sosa, and upon being put to a vote, passed by a vote of 12-0.
Upon conclusion of the foregoing discussion, Chairman Diaz continued chairing the meeting.
Pursuant to Commissioner Regalado�s request, Assistant County Attorney Michael Valdes advised Commissioner Regalado requested to amend Agenda Items C and H to increase the grant provided to eligible households in the Save Our Seniors Relief Fund from $100 to $200 per household. The funding in the amount of $3.1 million would come from the WHIP Program in the HOMES Plan described in the second changes memorandum; and as a result, the current transfer from Fund Account Number G1001 to Fund Account Number G1006 would be reduced by $3.1 million. (NOTE: this motion is also applicable to Agenda Item H.)
The funding in the amount of $3.1 million would come from the WHIP Program in the HOMES Plan described in the second changes memorandum; and as a result, the current transfer from Fund Account Number G1001 to Fund Account Number G1006 would be reduced by $3.1 million. (NOTE: this motion is also applicable to Agenda Item H.)
Following a discussion among the Board members regarding the need to provide assistance to seniors, Mayor Levine Cava advised the County Administration was unsupportive of the motion because the needs of seniors were already addressed in the HOMES Plan through the mortgage and utility relief programs with a funding allocation of $25 million, which would provide $1,500 per household.
Discussion ensued between the Board members and Mayor Levine Cava regarding how the seniors� needs were addressed and from which program of the HOMES Plan Commissioner Regalado�s amendment should best be funded.
Upon conclusion of the foregoing discussion, Mayor Levine Cava advised that Commissioner Regalado�s amendment could be funded through the M Program in the HOMES Plan without reducing the amount of money.
Commissioner Regalado accepted the Mayor�s proposed recommendation.
Commissioner Regalado moved to amend the foregoing item to increase the grant provided to eligible households in the Save Our Seniors Relief Fund from $100 to $200 per household; with funding for the increase ($3.1 million) to be funded from the �M� Program. This motion was seconded by Commissioner Sosa, and upon being put to a vote, passed by a vote of 12-0.
County Attorney Bonzon-Keenan explained pursuant to Commissioners Sosa and Heyman�s earlier request to bifurcate Section 9 of the foregoing item, that a motion was needed to address the County�s Ambassador Program.
There being no motion to address Section 9 of the foregoing ordinance, County Attorney Bonzon-Keenan advised that Section 9 would be deemed �deleted� from the foregoing item. She explained that a motion to approve the balance of Agenda C, as amended to (1) Delete Section 9; (2) To incorporate the amended second changes memorandum, and (3) To incorporate the amendments proffered by Chairman Diaz and Commissioners Garcia, Higgins, Hardemon, Monestime, Regalado was in order.
There being no further comments or questions, the Board adopted the foregoing ordinance, as amended.
|
|
|
ITEM D
|
|
| |
221940
|
Ordinance
Clerk's Official Copy
|
|
| |
|
| |
ORDINANCE APPROVING, ADOPTING AND RATIFYING THE MILLAGE FOR UNINCORPORATED MUNICIPAL SERVICE AREA OPERATING PURPOSES FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCING OCTOBER 1, 2022 AND ENDING SEPTEMBER 30, 2023; LEVYING ALL TAXES SO PROVIDED; PROVIDING SEVERABILITY, EXCLUSION FROM THE CODE AND AN EFFECTIVE DATE(Office of Management and Budget)
|
Adopted
Ordinance 22-113
Mover: Sally A. Heyman
Seconder: Keon Hardemon
Vote: 11 - 1
No: Garc�a
|
| |
REPORT:
County Attorney Geri Bonzon-Keenan read the title of the foregoing proposed ordinance into the record.
Mr. David Clodfelter, Director, Miami-Dade Office of Management and Budget (OMB), read into the record the proposed millage for Unincorporated Municipal Service Area (UMSA) operating purposes for the Fiscal Year commencing October 1, 2022, and ending September 30, 2023, as outlined in the foregoing proposed ordinance.
There being no further questions or comments, the Board proceeded to vote on the foregoing ordinance, as presented.
|
|
| |
9/8/2022
Adopted on first reading by the Board of County Commissioners
|
|
|
ITEM E
|
|
| |
221941
|
Ordinance
|
|
| |
|
| |
ORDINANCE APPROVING AND ADOPTING THE UNINCORPORATED MUNICIPAL SERVICE AREA FUND BUDGET FOR MIAMI-DADE COUNTY, FLORIDA, FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCING OCTOBER 1, 2022 AND ENDING SEPTEMBER 30, 2023; PROVIDING A SHORT TITLE; INCORPORATING THE FISCAL YEAR 2022-23 PROPOSED BUDGET AS AMENDED; APPROPRIATING ALL BUDGETED REVENUES AND EXPENDITURES; AUTHORIZING THE INVESTMENT OF COUNTY FUNDS IN THE TIME WARRANTS OF MIAMI-DADE COUNTY; AUTHORIZING THE TRANSFER OF FUNDS AS CASH ADVANCES PENDING RECEIPT OF TAXES OR OTHER REVENUES; AUTHORIZING DEPOSIT OF INTEREST EARNED TO THE GENERAL FUND; RATIFYING, CONFIRMING AND APPROVING IMPLEMENTING ORDERS AND OTHER ACTIONS OF THE BOARD WHICH SET FEES, RATES, AND CHARGES; AUTHORIZING FEES, RATES, AND CHARGES CONSISTENT WITH APPROPRIATIONS, AND PROVIDING FOR THEIR AMENDMENT AND AUTHORIZING SUBSEQUENT AMENDMENTS BY RESOLUTION; RECOGNIZING AND CONTINUING THE UNINCORPORATED MUNICIPAL SERVICE AREA; AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR OR MAYOR�S DESIGNEE TO NEGOTIATE AND EXECUTE CERTAIN FUNDING AGREEMENTS; WAIVING FOR FISCAL YEAR 2022-23 PROVISIONS OF THE CODE AND RESOLUTIONS REQUIRING EXECUTION OF COUNTY AFFIDAVITS FOR NON-PROFITS RECEIVING CERTAIN COUNTY FUNDING; AMENDING, WAIVING OR RESCINDING, IF NECESSARY, VARIOUS SECTIONS OF THE CODE, APPLICABLE IMPLEMENTING ORDERS, AND OTHER LEGISLATIVE ENACTMENTS TO CONFORM SUCH ENACTMENTS TO THE FISCAL YEAR 2022-23 BUDGET; SUPERSEDING CONFLICTING PROVISIONS OF PRIOR LEGISLATIVE ENACTMENTS; PROVIDING SEVERABILITY, EXCLUSION FROM THE CODE AND AN EFFECTIVE DATE(Office of Management and Budget)
|
Amended
|
| |
REPORT:
See Agenda Item E Amended, Legislative File No. 222359 for the final amended version.
|
|
| |
9/8/2022
Adopted on first reading by the Board of County Commissioners
|
|
|
ITEM E AMENDED
|
|
| |
222359
|
Ordinance
Clerk's Official Copy
|
|
| |
|
| |
ORDINANCE APPROVING AND ADOPTING THE UNINCORPORATED MUNICIPAL SERVICE AREA FUND BUDGET FOR MIAMI-DADE COUNTY, FLORIDA, FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCING OCTOBER 1, 2022 AND ENDING SEPTEMBER 30, 2023; PROVIDING A SHORT TITLE; INCORPORATING THE FISCAL YEAR 2022-23 PROPOSED BUDGET AS AMENDED; APPROPRIATING ALL BUDGETED REVENUES AND EXPENDITURES; AUTHORIZING THE INVESTMENT OF COUNTY FUNDS IN THE TIME WARRANTS OF MIAMI-DADE COUNTY; AUTHORIZING THE TRANSFER OF FUNDS AS CASH ADVANCES PENDING RECEIPT OF TAXES OR OTHER REVENUES; AUTHORIZING DEPOSIT OF INTEREST EARNED TO THE GENERAL FUND; RATIFYING, CONFIRMING AND APPROVING IMPLEMENTING ORDERS AND OTHER ACTIONS OF THE BOARD WHICH SET FEES, RATES, AND CHARGES; AUTHORIZING FEES, RATES, AND CHARGES CONSISTENT WITH APPROPRIATIONS, AND PROVIDING FOR THEIR AMENDMENT AND AUTHORIZING SUBSEQUENT AMENDMENTS BY RESOLUTION; RECOGNIZING AND CONTINUING THE UNINCORPORATED MUNICIPAL SERVICE AREA; AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR OR MAYOR�S DESIGNEE TO NEGOTIATE AND EXECUTE CERTAIN FUNDING AGREEMENTS; WAIVING FOR FISCAL YEAR 2022-23 PROVISIONS OF THE CODE AND RESOLUTIONS REQUIRING EXECUTION OF COUNTY AFFIDAVITS FOR NON-PROFITS RECEIVING CERTAIN COUNTY FUNDING; AMENDING, WAIVING OR RESCINDING, IF NECESSARY, VARIOUS SECTIONS OF THE CODE, APPLICABLE IMPLEMENTING ORDERS, AND OTHER LEGISLATIVE ENACTMENTS TO CONFORM SUCH ENACTMENTS TO THE FISCAL YEAR 2022-23 BUDGET; SUPERSEDING CONFLICTING PROVISIONS OF PRIOR LEGISLATIVE ENACTMENTS; PROVIDING SEVERABILITY, EXCLUSION FROM THE CODE AND AN EFFECTIVE DATE [SEE ORRIGINAL ITEM UNDER FILE NO. 221941](Office of Management and Budget)
|
Adopted as amended
Ordinance 22-114
Mover: Sally A. Heyman
Seconder: Rebeca Sosa
Vote: 11 - 1
No: Garc�a
|
| |
REPORT:
County Attorney Geri Bonzon-Keenan read the title of the foregoing proposed ordinance into the record. She noted that the foregoing item was amended to (1) Incorporate the Mayor�s second changes memorandum which, was further amended to include the changes announced by Mr. David Clodfelter, Director, Miami-Dade Office of Management and Budget (OMB), at the beginning of today�s (9/20) meeting; and (2) Incorporate the amendments proffered by Chairman Diaz (to provide public safety equipment to the City of Sweetwater) and Commissioners Garcia (HOMES Program Reporting), Higgins (Development Inflation Adjustment Fund related to the HOMES Program), Monestime (to reallocate funding) and Regalado (Save Our Seniors).
Commissioner Heyman requested Section 10 of the foregoing item, pertaining to the Ambassador Program be bifurcated.
There being no motion to address Section 10 of the foregoing ordinance, County Attorney Bonzon-Keenan advised that Section 10 would be deemed �deleted� from the foregoing item. She explained that a motion to approve the balance of Agenda E, as amended to (1) Delete Section 10; (2) To incorporate the amended second changes memorandum, and (3) To incorporate the amendments proffered as part of Item C by Chairman Diaz (and Commissioners Garcia (HOMES Program Reporting), Higgins (Development Inflation Adjustment Fund related to the HOMES Program), Hardemon (allocation to Latinos United & Action Center, Inc.), Monestime (revision to original allocation), Regalado was in order.
There being no further comments or questions, the Board adopted the foregoing ordinance, as amended.
|
|
|
ITEM F
|
|
| |
221942
|
Ordinance
Clerk's Official Copy
|
|
| |
|
| |
ORDINANCE APPROVING, ADOPTING AND RATIFYING THE MILLAGE FOR MIAMI-DADE FIRE AND RESCUE SERVICE DISTRICT OPERATING PURPOSES FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCING OCTOBER 1, 2022 AND ENDING SEPTEMBER 30, 2023; LEVYING ALL TAXES SO PROVIDED; RECOGNIZING AND CONTINUING THE MIAMI-DADE FIRE AND RESCUE SERVICE DISTRICT; PROVIDING SEVERABILITY, EXCLUSION FROM THE CODE AND AN EFFECTIVE DATE(Office of Management and Budget)
|
Adopted
Ordinance 22-115
Mover: Rebeca Sosa
Seconder: Jose "Pepe" Diaz
Vote: 12 - 0
|
| |
REPORT:
County Attorney Geri Bonzon-Keenan read the title of the foregoing proposed ordinance into the record.
Mr. David Clodfelter, Director, Miami-Dade Office of Management and Budget (OMB), read into the record the proposed millage for Miami-Dade Fire and Rescue Service District Operating Purposes for Fiscal Year commencing October 1, 2022, and ending September 30, 2023, as outlined in the foregoing proposed ordinance.
There being no further questions or comments, the Board proceeded to vote on the foregoing ordinance, as presented.
|
|
| |
9/8/2022
Adopted on first reading by the Board of County Commissioners
|
|
|
ITEM G
|
|
| |
221943
|
Ordinance
Clerk's Official Copy
|
|
| |
|
| |
ORDINANCE APPROVING, ADOPTING AND RATIFYING THE MILLAGE FOR MIAMI-DADE LIBRARY SYSTEM OPERATING PURPOSES FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCING OCTOBER 1, 2022 AND ENDING SEPTEMBER 30, 2023; LEVYING ALL TAXES SO PROVIDED; RECOGNIZING AND CONTINUING THE MIAMI-DADE LIBRARY SYSTEM; PROVIDING SEVERABILITY, EXCLUSION FROM THE CODE AND AN EFFECTIVE DATE(Office of Management and Budget)
|
Adopted
Ordinance 22-116
Mover: Sen. Javier D. Souto
Seconder: Rebeca Sosa
Vote: 12 - 0
|
| |
REPORT:
County Attorney Geri Bonzon-Keenan read the title of the foregoing proposed ordinance into the record.
Mr. David Clodfelter, Director, Miami-Dade Office of Management and Budget (OMB), read into the record the proposed millage for Miami-Dade Library System Operating Purposes for the Fiscal Year commencing October 1, 2022, and ending September 30, 2023, as outlined in the foregoing proposed ordinance.
There being no further questions or comments, the Board proceeded to vote on the foregoing ordinance, as presented.
|
|
| |
9/8/2022
Adopted on first reading by the Board of County Commissioners
|
|
|
ITEM H
|
|
| |
222073
|
Ordinance
|
|
| |
|
| |
ORDINANCE APPROVING, ADOPTING AND RATIFYING PROPRIETARY BUDGETS, SPECIAL ASSESSMENT DISTRICT BUDGETS, AND OTHER BUDGETS OF MIAMI-DADE COUNTY, FLORIDA, FOR FISCAL YEAR COMMENCING OCTOBER 1, 2022 AND ENDING SEPTEMBER 30, 2023; PROVIDING A SHORT TITLE; INCORPORATING FISCAL YEAR 2022-23 PROPOSED BUDGET AS AMENDED; APPROPRIATING ALL BUDGETED REVENUES AND EXPENDITURES; AUTHORIZING INVESTMENT OF COUNTY FUNDS IN TIME WARRANTS OF MIAMI-DADE COUNTY; AUTHORIZING TRANSFER OF FUNDS AS CASH ADVANCES PENDING RECEIPT OF TAXES OR OTHER REVENUES; RATIFYING, CONFIRMING AND APPROVING IMPLEMENTING ORDERS AND OTHER ACTIONS OF BOARD WHICH SET FEES, RATES, AND CHARGES; AUTHORIZING FEES, RATES, AND CHARGES CONSISTENT WITH APPROPRIATIONS AND PROVIDING FOR THEIR AMENDMENT; APPROVING REVISED FEES, CHARGES, AND IMPLEMENTING ORDERS FOR VARIOUS DEPARTMENTS AND AGENCIES AND AUTHORIZING SUBSEQUENT AMENDMENTS BY RESOLUTION; APPROVING FISCAL YEAR 2022-23 PAY PLAN; AUTHORIZING ALLOCATIONS AND REALLOCATIONS OF BOND PROCEEDS AND INTEREST EARNINGS; AUTHORIZING MAYOR OR MAYOR�S DESIGNEE TO PROVIDE BOND ISSUE RESERVES; ESTABLISHING SUCH FUNDS AS MAY BE APPROVED DURING FISCAL YEAR AND PROVIDING FOR THEIR EXPENDITURE; AUTHORIZING PAYMENT OF LOCAL BUSINESS TAX SURCHARGE TO BEACON COUNCIL; APPROPRIATING GRANT, DONATION, AND CONTRIBUTION FUNDS; AUTHORIZING MAYOR OR MAYOR�S DESIGNEE TO NEGOTIATE AND EXECUTE CERTAIN FUNDING AGREEMENTS; CONTINUING MUNICIPAL SERVICES FUND; AUTHORIZING DISBURSEMENT FROM THE ENVIRONMENTALLY ENDANGERED LANDS (�EEL�) ACQUISITION TRUST FUND TO SUPPLEMENT THE EEL LAND MANAGEMENT TRUST FUND TO MAINTAIN THE PRINCIPAL BALANCE REQUIRED UNDER SECTION 24-50.5 (2)(B)(I) OF THE CODE OF MIAMI-DADE COUNTY, FLORIDA (�CODE�); WAIVING FOR FISCAL YEAR 2022-23, (A) SECTION 29-7(G) OF THE CODE RELATED TO ALLOCATION OF DOCUMENTARY SURTAX FUNDS, AND (B) RESOLUTION NO. R-924-08 RELATING TO TRANSIT FARES, FEES, AND CHARGES; WAIVING PROVISIONS OF THE CODE AND RESOLUTIONS REQUIRING EXECUTION OF COUNTY AFFIDAVITS FOR NON-PROFITS RECEIVING CERTAIN COUNTY FUNDING; AUTHORIZING THE TERMINATION OF FINANCIAL INTEREST RATE SWAP AGREEMENTS AND ALLOWING REINVESTMENT OF TERMINATION PROCEEDS IN ACCORDANCE WITH COUNTY INVESTMENT POLICY; AMENDING SECTION 32-92 OF THE CODE RELATING TO VOLUNTARY NOTIFICATION FEES FOR CERTAIN WATER AND SEWER DELINQUENT ACCOUNTS; AMENDING, WAIVING OR RESCINDING, IF NECESSARY, VARIOUS SECTIONS OF THE CODE, APPLICABLE IMPLEMENTING ORDERS, AND OTHER LEGISLATIVE ENACTMENTS TO CONFORM SUCH ENACTMENTS TO FISCAL YEAR 2022-23 BUDGET; SUPERSEDING CONFLICTING PROVISIONS OF PRIOR LEGISLATIVE ENACTMENTS; PROVIDING SEVERABILITY, EXCLUSION FROM AND INCLUSION IN THE CODE AND AN EFFECTIVE DATE [SEE ORIGINAL ITEM UNDER FILE NO. 221944](Office of Management and Budget)
|
Amended
|
| |
REPORT:
See Agenda Item H Amended, Legislative File No. 222357 for the final amended version.
|
|
| |
9/8/2022
Bifurcated, adopted on first reading as amended by the Board of County Commissioners
|
|
|
ITEM H AMENDED
|
|
| |
222357
|
Ordinance
Clerk's Official Copy
|
|
| |
|
| |
ORDINANCE APPROVING, ADOPTING AND RATIFYING PROPRIETARY BUDGETS, SPECIAL ASSESSMENT DISTRICT BUDGETS, AND OTHER BUDGETS OF MIAMI-DADE COUNTY, FLORIDA, FOR FISCAL YEAR COMMENCING OCTOBER 1, 2022 AND ENDING SEPTEMBER 30, 2023; PROVIDING A SHORT TITLE; INCORPORATING FISCAL YEAR 2022-23 PROPOSED BUDGET AS AMENDED; APPROPRIATING ALL BUDGETED REVENUES AND EXPENDITURES; AUTHORIZING INVESTMENT OF COUNTY FUNDS IN TIME WARRANTS OF MIAMI-DADE COUNTY; AUTHORIZING TRANSFER OF FUNDS AS CASH ADVANCES PENDING RECEIPT OF TAXES OR OTHER REVENUES; RATIFYING, CONFIRMING AND APPROVING IMPLEMENTING ORDERS AND OTHER ACTIONS OF BOARD WHICH SET FEES, RATES, AND CHARGES; AUTHORIZING FEES, RATES, AND CHARGES CONSISTENT WITH APPROPRIATIONS AND PROVIDING FOR THEIR AMENDMENT; APPROVING REVISED FEES, CHARGES, AND IMPLEMENTING ORDERS FOR VARIOUS DEPARTMENTS AND AGENCIES AND AUTHORIZING SUBSEQUENT AMENDMENTS BY RESOLUTION; APPROVING FISCAL YEAR 2022-23 PAY PLAN; AUTHORIZING ALLOCATIONS AND REALLOCATIONS OF BOND PROCEEDS AND INTEREST EARNINGS; AUTHORIZING MAYOR OR MAYOR�S DESIGNEE TO PROVIDE BOND ISSUE RESERVES; ESTABLISHING SUCH FUNDS AS MAY BE APPROVED DURING FISCAL YEAR AND PROVIDING FOR THEIR EXPENDITURE; AUTHORIZING PAYMENT OF LOCAL BUSINESS TAX SURCHARGE TO BEACON COUNCIL; APPROPRIATING GRANT, DONATION, AND CONTRIBUTION FUNDS; AUTHORIZING MAYOR OR MAYOR�S DESIGNEE TO NEGOTIATE AND EXECUTE CERTAIN FUNDING AGREEMENTS; CONTINUING MUNICIPAL SERVICES FUND; AUTHORIZING DISBURSEMENT FROM THE ENVIRONMENTALLY ENDANGERED LANDS (�EEL�) ACQUISITION TRUST FUND TO SUPPLEMENT THE EEL LAND MANAGEMENT TRUST FUND TO MAINTAIN THE PRINCIPAL BALANCE REQUIRED UNDER SECTION 24-50.5 (2)(B)(I) OF THE CODE OF MIAMI-DADE COUNTY, FLORIDA (�CODE�); WAIVING FOR FISCAL YEAR 2022-23, (A) SECTION 29-7(G) OF THE CODE RELATED TO ALLOCATION OF DOCUMENTARY SURTAX FUNDS, AND (B) RESOLUTION NO. R-924-08 RELATING TO TRANSIT FARES, FEES, AND CHARGES; WAIVING PROVISIONS OF THE CODE AND RESOLUTIONS REQUIRING EXECUTION OF COUNTY AFFIDAVITS FOR NON-PROFITS RECEIVING CERTAIN COUNTY FUNDING; AUTHORIZING THE TERMINATION OF FINANCIAL INTEREST RATE SWAP AGREEMENTS AND ALLOWING REINVESTMENT OF TERMINATION PROCEEDS IN ACCORDANCE WITH COUNTY INVESTMENT POLICY; AMENDING SECTIONS 32-92 OF THE CODE RELATING TO VOLUNTARY NOTIFICATION FEES FOR CERTAIN WATER AND SEWER DELINQUENT ACCOUNTS; AMENDING, WAIVING OR RESCINDING, IF NECESSARY, VARIOUS SECTIONS OF THE CODE, APPLICABLE IMPLEMENTING ORDERS, AND OTHER LEGISLATIVE ENACTMENTS TO CONFORM SUCH ENACTMENTS TO FISCAL YEAR 2022-23 BUDGET; SUPERSEDING CONFLICTING PROVISIONS OF PRIOR LEGISLATIVE ENACTMENTS; PROVIDING SEVERABILITY, EXCLUSION FROM AND INCLUSION IN THE CODE AND AN EFFECTIVE DATE [SEE FILE NOS. 221944 AND 222073](Office of Management and Budget)
|
Adopted as amended
Ordinance 22-117
Mover: Rebeca Sosa
Seconder: Eileen Higgins
Vote: 11 - 1
No: Garc�a
|
| |
REPORT:
County Attorney Geri Bonzon-Keenan read the title of the foregoing proposed ordinance into the record. She noted that there were several requests for bifurcations and proffered amendments to be read into the record.
Following Chairman Diaz�s request that the bifurcations be considered first, County Attorney Bonzon-Keenan announced that there was a request to bifurcate Section 32 of the foregoing item, which pertained to the Ambassador�s Program.
Chairman Diaz clarified that Commissioner Heyman had requested Section 32 of the item to be bifurcated.
Commissioner Hardemon moved to delete Section 32 (Ambassador Program) of the foregoing item. This motion was seconded by Vice Chairman Gilbert III, and upon being put to a vote, passed by a vote of 12-0.
County Attorney Bonzon-Keenan advised that Commissioner Sosa had requested to bifurcate the Executive Benefit portion of the pay plan, and Commissioner Heyman indicated her intent to proffer an amendment to the same.
Commissioner Heyman stated that while she supported the Executive Benefit portion of the proposed plan as it applied to previously omitted County employees, she believed the item should be amended to exclude County Commissioners, and requested her amendment be read into the record.
Assistant County Attorney Michael Valdes announced that Commissioner Heyman was requesting the foregoing item be amended so that there would be no increase this fiscal year to the Executive Benefit provided to the County Commissioners and, as a result the pay plan attached to Item H would be amended so that the Executive Benefits for County Commissioners would revert to the amounts provided in the Fiscal Year 2021-22 Miami-Dade County Pay Plan, and any revenues impacted by the amendment would remain in their respective funds as unallocated balances.
Responding to Chairman Diaz�s request for clarification, Commissioner Heyman explained the intent of the proffered amendment was to exclude the County Commissioners from receiving any additional and/or supplemental compensation.
Vice Chairman Gilbert III pointed out the Executive Benefit package was applicable to employees earning $200,000 or more; and voiced his concerns that the proffered amendment sought to exclude County Commissioners� earning $6,000. He clarified that while he fully supported the Mayor�s and County Attorney�s salaries based on their respective responsibilities, he questioned the intent of the proffered amendment.
The foregoing motion to amend the Executive Benefit component of the pay plan as proffered by Commissioner Heyman, died due to a lack of a second.
Commissioner Sosa renewed her request to bifurcate the Executive Benefit component of the pay plan as it applied to the County Commissioners. She stated she could not support the Executive Benefit package for County Commissioners despite her belief that County Commissioners deserved a salary increase because public input in the matter was necessary.
Chairman Diaz clarified that the County Commissioners� salaries were approved by the electorate, but the Board of County Commissioners (Board) decided and/or approved issues related to benefits.
Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava noted that the administration and staff did not receive Executive Benefits and the current budget did not provide for one.
Responding to Chairman Diaz�s inquiry as to which departments and/or entities provided Executive Benefits to its� employees, Mr. David Clodfelter, Director, Miami-Dade Office of Management and Budget (OMB), stated the Miami-Dade County Office of the Inspector General (OIG), the Miami-Dade County Commission on Ethics and Public Trust commission of Ethics; as well as entities not under the purview of the Mayor, such as the Clerk of the Courts and other constitutional offices provided Executive Benefits to employees.
Commissioner Regalado requested additional clarification regarding the Executive Benefits component as it applied to the administration.
Ms. Jennifer Moon, Chief, Office of Policy and Budgetary Affairs (OPBA) explained that the language included in the proposed pay plan eliminated the restriction on awarding executive benefits to the administration.
Discussion ensued among Mayor Levine Cava, Vice Chairman Gilbert III and various other Board members regarding the elimination of the prohibition.
Mayor Levine Cava emphasized that it was not within the budget to provide executive benefits to the administration�s employees.
Commissioner Regalado inquired about allowable expenses, the proposed increase for said expenses; and the proposed increase for the 401A contributions.
Ms. Moon explained the Executive Benefits Group 1 for County Commissioners included an expense and car allowances. She noted the expense allowance would increase from $24,000 to $43,000 consistent with the Consumer Price Index (CPI) adjustment. Ms. Moon further stated that the car allowance would increase from $9,600 to $10,500; and the Executive Benefit Group 1 would increase from $10,000 to $18,000.
Ms. Moon advised that the executive benefit was originally intended to be used to pay for insurance policies, while the expense allowance would be used for other expenses. She noted the 2005 car allowance increase was intended to cover parking and auto insurance. Ms. Moon pointed out that while with the total amount of all the proposed increases in the allowance and benefits categories did not equate to a CPI adjustment, it would correct the categories and bring them closer to appropriate levels.
Ms. Moon clarified that the 401A retirement account was not a definitive award but instead an increase in the �cap� amount from $11,500 to $61,000. She explained the cap was determined by a formula calculation which took into account how much individual commissioners accepted and/or used the other benefits and any other allowable contributions. Ms. Moon emphasized that while the contribution amount was capped at $61,000; the amount deposited into the 401A account would be determined by the formula as it applied to each commissioner.
Discussion ensued between Commissioner Regalado and Ms. Moon as to the factors considered by the formula including, but not limited to, whether commissioners took the executive benefit in a lump-sum payment, how the expense and car allowances were applied and if any other contributions were made, such as a salary deferral.
Responding to Commissioner Regalado�s question as to the minimum and maximum amounts allowed, Ms. Moon reiterated the maximum 401A contribution amount permitted by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) was $61,000 and explained that the minimum amount would be calculated based on the individual commissioner�s situation.
Commissioner Regalado clarified that she was interested in establishing the minimum and maximum amounts for all benefits.
Ms. Moon stated the three (3) other categories (expense, car and executive benefits) amounted to $71,500, and explained that she could not provide a total minimum amount because the 401A contribution made by each commissioner could vary up to the allowable IRS cap.
Commissioner Regalado stated her intent to amend the foregoing item to keep the 401A contribution at the original cap amount. She explained the changes to the executive benefits, expense and car allowances would remain as proposed but the proposal to increase the cap to $61,000 would be deleted. Commissioner Regalado commented on the public�s concerns regarding the proposed increase to commissioners� salaries and maintained that the facts regarding the numbers were not properly explained. She emphasized that the total fiscal impact of all the other increases absent the 401A component would still equate to less than a CPI adjustment and requested clarification as to the last time the compensation packages were changed.
Ms. Moon responded that the total benefit package amount remained unchanged since 1993. She noted the expense and car allowances were last adjusted in 2000 and 2005 respectively, while the 401A contribution was adjusted in 2001.
Vice Chairman Gilbert III urged his colleagues to consider the years the allowances were last adjusted and the impact of inflation. He contended the artificial suppression of the formula and the lack of action to remedy the situation had led to the financial �shock� now being experienced by the public. Vice Chairman Gilbert III commented on the Area Median Income (AMI) and the average price index (API), and argued these factors were being ignored. He referenced comments made by a fellow commissioner that it was not the Board�s role to correct past mistakes and maintained that the majority of today�s budget discussions were related to changing and/or improving previous Board and County policies.
Commissioner Regalado reiterated her intent to amend the foregoing item to keep the 401A contribution at the original cap amount. She stated the proposal to increase the 401A contribution cap should be vetted through Committee review and the salary question should be placed before the electorate.
Responding to Chairman Diaz�s question as to whether the funds were already budgeted to the commissioners, Mr. Clodfelter confirmed that the funding was currently allocated to each district commission office.
Chairman Diaz pointed out that the funding already existed, and it was at the district commissioner�s discretion as to how the funds should be allocated. He concurred with comments made by Vice Chairman Gilbert III regarding the need for proper compensation.
Commissioner Hardemon spoke about the importance of the Board taking action to remedy the ongoing compensation issue. He proffered a quote by Dr. Martin Luther King, �The time is always ripe to do right;� and encouraged his colleagues to take the opportunity to do what was right.
Commissioner Monestime concurred with the comments made by Vice Chairman Gilbert III about the importance and need for adjusting compensation and expense packages to rising CPI. He pointed out that the Board routinely adjusted contracts to account for inflation and expressed disbelief that some Board members questioned the need and/or opposed making the necessary adjustments for the county commissioners� compensation packages.
Commissioner Cohen Higgins commented on how the low compensation package for county commissioners deterred many interested individuals from pursuing public service. She contended an increase in the Executive Benefit package and compensation could be viewed as an investment in the future of the Board and would encourage more people to run for office, thereby giving the public more choices and representation on the Board.
Commissioner Cohen Higgins recognized the merits of the item and encouraged her colleagues to support the proposed increases.
Vice Chairman Gilbert III pointed out that the quote cited by Commissioner Hardemon continued to state, �There is a strange illusion that time will solve problems�; and argued that time did not solve problems, but people did. He spoke about the Board�s role and duty to address and solve problems facing the community, and opined that the issue of proper compensation was no different. Vice Chairman Gilbert III acknowledged that there was a fear of criticism and strongly encouraged his colleagues to look past the critics and make the right decision.
Commissioner Heyman stated she could not support the proposed increase and/or changes due to the lack of process and transparency. She agreed that the issue needed to be addressed and recommended incremental increases following public input instead of one drastic adjustment.
Vice Chairman Gilbert III clarified that the proposed compensation and benefit changes were published with the County�s proposed budget plan, thus properly noticed. He commented on the transparent process which led to the extensive discussions tonight (9/20) and pointed out that despite extensive media coverage, only one (1) speaker commented on the proposed changes.
Commissioner Sosa voiced her support for the amendment and recommendations proffered by Commissioner Regalado. She reiterated her belief that the public should have input on commissioners� salaries, and concurred with Commissioner Heyman�s comments regarding the lack of process and transparency.
Chairman Diaz contended the compensation and benefit issue had been highly publicized and advertised following the first budget hearing meeting. He stated that while he agreed that the salary issue should be decided by public vote, the executive benefit component could be done by the Board and did not require a vote by the electorate. Chairman Diaz indicated his support for increasing the executive benefit and expenses allowances.
County Attorney Bonzon-Keenan advised that Commissioner Regalado sought to amend the Executive Benefits Program line item regarding the 401A contribution (under Column C1) to read $11,500.
Commissioner Regalado explained the intent of the proffered amendment was to leave the 401A contribution amount as is, without any increases.
This motion was seconded by Commissioner Sosa, and upon being put to a vote, failed by a vote of 4-8 (Commissioners Regalado, Sosa, Garcia and Heyman voted �yes�; Chairman Diaz, Vice Chairman Gilbert III, Commissioners Monestime, Souto, Cohen Higgins, Hardemon, Higgins and McGhee voted �No�).
Vice Chairman Gilbert III moved to approve the Executive Benefit Program as outlined in the foregoing item. This motion was seconded by Commissioner McGhee, and upon being put to a vote, passed by a vote of 7-5 (Commissioners Regalado, Sosa, Garcia, Heyman and Higgins voted �No�).
County Attorney Bonzon-Keenan explained that a motion to approve the balance of Item H, as amended to (1) Delete Section 32; (2) To incorporate the amended second changes memorandum, and (3) To incorporate the amendments proffered as part of Item C by Chairman Diaz (to provide public safety equipment to the City of Sweetwater), and Commissioners Garcia (HOMES Program Reporting), Higgins (Development Inflation Adjustment Fund related to the HOMES Program), Monestime (to reallocate funding), Hardemon (to allocate funding to Latinos United & Action Center, Inc.) and Regalado (Save Our Seniors) was in order.
There being no further comments or questions, the Board adopted the foregoing ordinance, as amended.
|
|
|
|
NON-AGENDA ITEM
|
| |
|
ITEM I
|
|
| |
222128
|
Resolution
Clerk's Official Copy
|
Rebeca Sosa
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |
RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING AND DIRECTING THE COUNTY MAYOR OR COUNTY MAYOR�S DESIGNEE TO IMMEDIATELY ALLOW COUNTY EMPLOYEES TO CONTRIBUTE THE MONETARY VALUE OF ACCRUED HOLIDAY AND ANNUAL LEAVE TIME TO THE COUNTY�S EMERGENCY DISASTER RELIEF FUND ESTABLISHED BY RESOLUTION NO. R-1071-05, UP TO A LIMIT OF $250,000.00, FOR THE PURPOSE OF DONATING TO HURRICANE FIONA RELIEF EFFORTS IN PUERTO RICO, AND TO PROVIDE A REPORT RECOMMENDING DONATION OPTIONS FOR THE FUNDS CONTRIBUTED
|
Adopted
Resolution R-864-22
Mover: Rebeca Sosa
Seconder: Jose "Pepe" Diaz
Vote: 12 - 0
|
| |
REPORT:
Commissioner Sosa thanked the administration and Miami-Dade firefighters for the aid provided to Puerto Rico following Hurricane Fiona; and extended an invitation to any interested County employees to contribute accrued holiday and annual leave time to the County's Emergency Disaster Relief Fund.
County Attorney Geri Bonzon-Keenan advised the Board members that the County Attorney's Office would prepare a formal motion for consideration and approval later in the meeting.
Later in the meeting, County Attorney Bonzon-Keenan read the following motion proffered by Commissioner Sosa into the record:
�Commissioner Sosa moved to authorize and direct the County Mayor or County Mayor's designee to immediately allow County employees to contribute the monetary value of accrued holiday and annual leave time to the County's emergency disaster relief fund established by Resolution No. R-1071-05, up to a limit of $250,000.00, for the purpose of donating to Hurricane Fiona relief efforts in Puerto Rico, and to provide a report recommending donation options for the funds contributed.�
Later in the meeting, there being no further questions or comments, the Board proceeded to vote on the foregoing proposed resolution, as presented.
|
|
|
|
ADJOURNMENT
|
| |
| |
REPORT:
There being no further business to come before the Board of County Commissioners, the meeting was adjourned at 1:05 a.m.
|
|
|
3A
|
CONSENT AGENDA
|
| |
|
| 9/2/2026 |
|
|
|
Agenda Key: 4834 |