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MINUTES PREPARED BY:
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REPORT:
Jovel Shaw, Commission Reporter, (305) 375-1289
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1A
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INVOCATION AS PROVIDED IN RULE 5.05(H)
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REPORT:
Chairman Oliver G. Gilbert, III invoked a prayer followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.
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1B
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ROLL CALL
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REPORT:
Chairman Oliver G. Gilbert, III convened the Board of County Commissioners� meeting at 11:18 a.m.
Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava was in attendance in addition to the following staff members:
-County Attorney Geri Bonzon-Keenan;
-First Assistant County Attorney Gerald Sanchez;
-Executive Assistant County Attorney Jess McCarty;
-Assistant County Attorneys Cynji Lee, Abbie Schwaderer-Raurell and David Hope; and
-Miami-Dade Clerk of the Board Director Basia Pruna and Deputy Clerk Jovel Shaw
County Attorney Geri Bonzon-Keenan advised the Board that today�s (9/19) special meeting was called to consider matters relating to implementation of Miami-Dade County�s Integrated Solid Waste Management Plan and related matters. At this meeting, the Board of County Commissioners may take action to approve ordinances, resolutions, motions, reports or other documents and discussion items related thereto under the Board�s Rules of Procedure and other applicable law that may be placed on the agenda for this special meeting.
County Attorney Bonzon-Keenan noted she had a request from Commissioner Higgins to pull all items for discussion. Additionally, she noted there were no additional changes to today�s agenda.
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1C
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PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
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1D
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REASONABLE OPPORTUNITY FOR THE PUBLIC TO BE HEARD AS PROVIDED IN RULE 6.06
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REPORT:
Chairman Gilbert III opened the reasonable opportunity for the public to speak.
The following persons appeared before the Board:
City of Doral Mayor Christi Fraga, 8401 NW 53 Terrace, Doral, Florida, spoke in connection to Special Item Number 1 and thanked the Board for allowing her to speak on behalf of the Doral residents. She noted she has appeared to speak on this matter multiple times and noted the site visit of the County� Resources Recovery Facility (RRF) site located in Doral. In addition to the numerous discussions held. She asked the Board to review this matter carefully and that the County Mayor be provided with the authority and the Administration that it needs so that the sites ranked in the report (Special Item 7) adopted by the Board obtain the necessary permitting and move forward with a clear direction. Mayor Fraga stated that obtaining a permit on the Doral site would not reduce the time line of the process. She noted applying for a permit should be for a new site anywhere and a review of all of the current factors. Mayor Fraga commented the over burden community would be taken into consideration by the issuing agencies. She reiterated her request to review all of the options and do not settle for the status quo. Mayor Fraga appealed to the Board to not waste funds in reinvesting in a partial reopening of the current Resource Recovery Facility (RRF). Therefore, the Administration should explore all options and take action to move the facility so that it would not have no impact on any community. She thanked her community and the Board for its public service.
City of Doral Councilwoman Digna Cabral, 8401 NW 53 Terrace, Doral, Florida, spoke in connection to Special Item Number 1 and asked the Board to review this matter carefully. She commented the Board should look for an area that would facilitate the expansion in order to comply with the needs of the facility. Councilwoman Cabral stated the current site could be a transition site and urged the Board to look into that option. She thanked the Board for its consideration of this matter that not only affect the residents, but the County as a whole.
City of Miramar Mayor Wayne Messam, 2300 Civic Center Place, Miramar, Florida, spoke in opposition to Special Item Number 2. He noted the City of Miramar (City/Miramar) the closest largest municipality to a potential site that was being considered for the RRF was located an eighth of mile from the City and not notified. He commented that the potential site, Opa-Locka West Airport, was being assessed for inclusion in the County�s Integrated Solid Waste Management Plan. Mayor Messam stated that the City was being jeopardized in its quality of life in the City of Miramar, and because the City was not included, the City found itself in an adversary position that it did not plan to be in. He stated the decision to consider the Opa-Locka West Airport as a potential site would affect many Broward/Miramar residents. He proceeded to highlight certain items contained in the County Mayor�s report regarding the Opa-Locka West Airport site. Mayor Messam commented the report also suggested critical funding that Miami-Dade County was relying upon to offset cost so that construction could start by the end of 2024, which the County must do to qualify for the funding.
Miramar Mayor Messam cited several factors that the report was not all, as it seems for the Opa-Locka West Airport site and referenced that only 39 acres could be built upon without any special permits or mitigation to that site. He stated over 300 acres was needed to accommodate the County�s Integrated Solid Waste solution. Mayor Messam asked before the recommendation was made was there environmental studies, surface water impacts and other factors completed. He stated that there were more available sites further south in Miami-Dade County that were not given enough consideration to be included in the County Mayor�s report beyond the three sites indicated in the report. Mayor Messam asked that sites cited by Commissioner Regalado, outlined in the County Mayor�s report be added to the three sites for further assessment to ensure a transparent process. He stated that Miramar was prepared to take objection to every permit process at every level pleading our case to regulator, which would potentially delay the permitting process. Mayor Messam commented that was not position Miramar wanted to be in, but we must protect the interest of our residents. In closing, he reiterated the City of Miramar does not want to be in this adversarial position. Mayor Messam respectfully urged the Board to include the additional sites rejected by Arcadis. He stated consideration for all alternative sites and not just the Opa-Locka West Airport site.
Mr. Michael Goldstein, 2100 Ponce De Leon Boulevard, Coral Gables, Florida, City of Miramar Consultant, respectfully stated there was insufficient consideration for public health, natural resource, environmental and other implication factors at locating a mass burning facility at the Opa-Locka West location. He stated the City wished to have an opportunity to vet the Arcadis Report. Mr. Goldstein stated upon completion of the vetting the City would be prepared to present its findings. He asked that this Board do not call the question to soon until more facts, more science, more deliberate analyses, more meaningful collaboration with the City, and more transparency with the County�s regional partners.
City of Pembroke Pines Commissioner Angelo Castillo, 601 City Center Drive, Pembroke Pines, Florida, associated his comment with those from City of Miramar. He stated this matter was a regional problem and noted the environmental pit falls, health issues associated with how trash historically was disposed. Commissioner Castillo commented on the need to meet and to address this matter collectively by Broward, Miami-Dade and Palm Beach in the same manner in addressing transportation and economic development.
City of Hialeah Mayor Esteban Bovo, 501 Palm Avenue, Hialeah, Florida, spoke in connection to agenda items relating to the County�s Integrated Solid Waste Management Plan. He noted the City of Hialeah one of the largest cities in west Miami-Dade along with other surrounding cities did not have no information on this matter. Mayor Bovo asked for more time to involve the other cities located out west to obtain more information. He commented development in the West Dade area has increased. Mayor Bovo stated there was already a blasting issue in the subject area. He asked that the residents be involved in the conversation due to the potential impact.
Mr. Diego Molina Castelleon, 11357 NW 52 Street, Doral, Florida, and asked the Board to not move forward with the rebuilding of the facility and spoke in opposition to the proposed agenda items on today�s (9/19) Board agenda.
Mr. Sebastian Caicedo, 10800 Biscayne Boulevard, Miami, Florida, Regional Director for Florida Rising in Miami, spoke in opposition to Special Item Number 2 pertaining to an incinerator facility.
Ms. Patricia Villar Sanchez, 4881 NW 109 Court, Doral, Florida, asked the Board to approve of the following recommendations relating to the implementation of a solid waste plan for the County, the expansion of County�s landfill capacity, the contract negotiations for private landfill disposal capacity and the approval of the permanent closure for the current RRF located in Doral. Additionally, she asked that the Board approve the following recommendation pertaining to the solid waste solutions:
(1) To request an extension,
(2) To evaluate all of the activities not related to the reconstruction of another waste-to-energy (WTE) facility that could potentially be used,
(3) To allow the Administration to present an updated solid waste master plan to the Board before the end of the current year, and
(4) To conduct a long-term financial analysis for the County�s solid waste program to be include in the updated solid waste master plan by the end of the year.
Mr. Bruce Kaplan, 11401 NW 20 Street, Doral, Florida, spoke in connection with Special Item Number 1. He noted the new facility should be safe and environmentally intact. Additionally, the new facility should not affect the surrounding neighborhoods. Mr. Kaplan asked that the Board do not allow Covanta to move forward.
Mr. Jayson Pena, Culture Affairs Advisory Board member in Doral, Florida, 8017 Lake Drive Apartment 201, Doral, Florida, spoke in support of Special Item Number 2. He noted a report he submitted to each of the Board member�s offices and asked that each member take look at it.
Mr. Renato Pereira, 5322 NW 110 Avenue, Doral, Florida, Plant Manager at the WTE facility, stated Covanta employees were working to preserve and clean the facility. He stated Covanta has offered a sensible alternate plan to repair only a small portion of the plant to process bulky waste and trash only with no processing of garbage at the facility. The facility would remain in service for another ten years while giving the County the time to build a new facility or make other decisions. Mr. Pereira expressed that was a fair better option and much more eco-friendly option than trucking approximately 400,000 tons of waste 135 miles north and dumping into landfills, which would be at the mercy of the haulers forever increasing cost in gas prices. In closing, he stated Covanta was offering was more time for the County.
Mr. Ranghiv Acurero, 10465 NW 69 Terrace, Doral, Florida, spoke in connection to Special Item Number 2 and noted the harm to residents. He urged the Board to seek clean solutions.
Ms. Gina Romero, 10933 NW 43 Lane, Doral, Florida, on behalf of Florida Rising, spoke in connection to Special Item Number 2, and implored the Board members to work with Broward County officials because they listened to their residents to make the best decision.
Ms. Luz Villalba, 7835 NW 105 Avenue, Doral, Florida, spoke in connection to Special Item Number 2, she urged the Board to vote for the health of the residents. Ms. Villalba expressed no one wants this facility in their backyard.
Ms. Lisa Moncaleano, 7439 NW 103 Court, Doral, Florida, spoke in connection to Special Item Number 2, she expressed no one would want an incinerator in their backyard or community. Ms. Moncaleano urged all parties involved to work together on this matter not just now, but for the future generation. She noted zero waste was a good option and this was the time to do it. Ms. Moncaleano urge the Board to consider all humanity on this matter.
Mr. Odel Torres, 10250 NW 66 Street, Doral, Florida, spoke in connection to Special Item Number 2, and represented a group that wants the plant to move out of Doral. He stated this was a County issue and not just a Doral issue.
Mr. Juan Carlos Esquivel, 3725 Alcantara Avenue, Doral, Florida, spoke in opposition to Special Item Number 1, noted the prior Board consideration of this item, which decided to rebuild the plant at that time. Mr. Esquivel pointed out the cost the County paid and that the citizens and specifically the Doral residents did not have to bear any cost for the facility.
Ms. Valentina Vale, a minor and a student, spoke in connection to Special Item Number 2 in regards to her health experiences and urged the Board to oppose the opening of another incinerator.
Mr. George Navarini, 510 NW 199 Avenue, Pembroke Pines, Florida, spoke in connection to Special Item Number 2 and noted the proximity of residents to the Opa-Locka West Airport site. Mr. Navarini stated the waste-to-energy was an obsolete solution.
Ms. Ana Vale, 10365 NW 66 Street, Doral, Florida, spoke in connection to Special Item Number 2 in regards her health and her family health conditions since the burning incident at the current RRF site.
Ms. Sui Jim, 6327 NW 104 Path, Doral, Florida, spoke in connection to Special Item Number 2 item and urged the Board to make the right decision as it pertained to sustainability for solid waste.
Ms. Ivette Gonzalez Petkovich, 10352 NW 46 Terrace, Doral, Florida, spoke in connection with Special Item Number 3 and noted she assisted in starting a petition to move the facility. She stated this was a Miami-Dade issue and not a City of Doral issue. Ms. Petkovich urged the Board to support the County Mayor�s recommendations on this matter.
Mr. Jared Jacobs, 401 69th Street, Miami Beach, Florida, a licensed planner with the American Planners Association, spoke in opposition to Special Item Number 2 and noted he also represented a few farmers in the Redland Homestead area who are interested and eager to start composting. Mr. Jacobs urged the Board to move forward with composting.
Ms. Maya Amir, a minor and student, spoke in support of Special Item Number 2 and noted the waste processed at the Covanta�s facility. She commented on the health issues and concerns and zero waste initiatives.
Ms. Claudia Bailly, 9990 NW 51 Lane, Doral, Florida, spoke in support of Special Item Number 2 and asked the Board to be on the right side of this matter.
Ms. Truly Burton, Executive Vice President Builders Association of South Florida (BASF), 111 NW 183 Street, Miami Gardens, Florida, spoke in support of Special Item Number 1 and stated that this community needs to make an infrastructure investment. She informed the Board that 30 years ago the County planned for a long-term disposal of solid waste. Ms. Burton commented the Board has several options before them today (9/19) and proceeded to speak in connection with Special Item Number 1 and indicated the administration plan was well thought out and BASF did not want a building permit moratorium.
City of Doral Vice Mayor Rafael Pineyro, 8401 NW 53 Terrace, Doral, Florida, and spoke in connection to the special items on today�s (9/19) agenda. He noted the persistent health concerns; the need for clean air; the fundamental rights of citizens in regards to air quality. Vice Mayor Pineyro concluded his comments by stating that the Board should support County Mayor Levine Cava recommendations.
Town of Miami Lakes Councilman Josh Dieguez, 6601 Main Street, Miami Lakes, Florida, asked the Board to allow additional time for community input and to obtain information on the subject matters before the Board today (9/19).
After hearing no one else wishing to speak, Chairman Gilbert closed the reasonable opportunity to be heard.
Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava She noted the Administration was committed to developing a long-term solid waste plan that would direct waste away from landfills. In addition, she stated the Administration would prioritize the environment and the public health needs of the community. Mayor Levine Cava stated the fire in February presented the County with many challenges, but also provided an opportunity to be bold, innovative and build a future-ready waste system. She commented that the proposed strategy was environmentally, operationally and financially sustainable. Mayor Levine Cava stated that the strategy recommended key actions that would ensure the County continued to grow for generations to come. She pointed out today (9/19), the County could take critical steps to accelerate a movement to a modern robust waste disposal system with many methods that were included in the County proposed plan. Mayor Levine Cava noted the County would still meet State mandates for waste disposal, which were critical. She noted the Administration was recommending three (3) key steps:
(1) To adopt the recommendation to build the County Solid Waste Campus at the Opa-Locka Airport West site,
(2) To authorize the Administration to begin the pre-application process for Opa-Locka Airport West, as well as the two (2) alternate sites Medley and Doral, and
(3) To urge the Board to take the steps to allow the Administration to close the Resources Recovery Facility (RRF) in Doral.
Mayor Levine Cava stated solid waste disposal was an enormous challenge that required short-term action and long-term strategies, which was why the County was also investing in a Zero Waste Master Plan. She noted that the Administration had already begun to look at zero waste strategies prior to the fire incident in Doral. Mayor Levine Cava stated the ultimate goal was to achieve 90% or greater diversion from landfills and incinerators. She noted the process would be ongoing and the County must move forward. Mayor Levine Cava stated time was of essence and recommended the Board consider each of the actions today (9/19) and approve or direct the Administration to move as quickly as possible. She asked to introduce Mr. Christopher Tillman, Principal Management Consultant at Arcadis, the Miami-Dade County Department of Solid Waste Bond engineering firm for the past 20 years who would speak to the County�s Solid Waste System Siting Alternatives (Siting) report.
Mr. Christopher Tillman, Project Manager with Arcadis made a brief presentation using a Microsoft PowerPoint Presentation and provided a background and overview of the County�s Solid Waste System Siting Alternatives Report. He stated the County had a rare opportunity to sustain and redesign its solid waste system. Mr. Tillman noted the County was going in the right direction by considering a new Mass-Burn Waste to Energy (WTE) Facility. He further noted the modern Mass-Burn WTE Facility was not an incinerator of the 1970�s. Mr. Tillman commented there was a significant value in considering a sustainable campus approach for the County future Integrated Solid Waste Management System. He concluded there was no perfect site for this facility and provided an overview of the understanding the County�s Waste Stream.
In response to Chairman Gilbert�s request, Mr. Tillman highlighted Siting Plan, stating that during this process the Arcadis and the Administration screened approximately 583,000 parcels in Miami-Dade County, of which 19 screening parameters were applied. Mr. Tillman proceeded to present and provide an overview of the preliminary siting analysis results for the Board. He noted 25 detailed site evaluations were completed, seven (7) potential sites were identified and shortlisted to three (3) sites. He briefly pointed out the synergies of a sustainable campus approach and concluded with the sites summary.
The Board members, Mr. Tillman and Mr. Jimmy Morales, Office of the Mayor, Chief Operations Officer held an extensive discussion regarding the sites considered as outlined in the summary, which were the Opa-Locka Airport West, Medley and the current Doral RRF site. Mr. Tillman noted Opa-Locka Airport West site was the largest site evaluated and had some environmental and other siting issues. He stated the Opa-Locka site was not perfect, but had good transportation access.
A brief discussion ensured on the applied siting screening criteria wherein Commissioner Hardemon specifically discussed the Opa-Locka Airport West (Airport West site) criterions for residential zoning offset and the one-half mile criteria, the environment and the air permitting. Further discussion ensued regarding the impact to the people who lived near the Airport West site and Mr. Tillman spoke of the permitting process that included a human health safety evaluation that set the parameters for the permit.
Commissioner Bermudez questioned the neighboring distance of the new facility, and Mr. Tillman discussed the criteria, and how it was calculated, as well as the air quality for the Medley landfill and the existing Doral RRF facility.
Chairman Gilbert reviewed and questioned the annual operating cost and the increased cost per-ton annually.
Commissioner Garcia, Mr. Tillman and Mr. Morales spoke in connection with new technologies and making a distinction between existing plants compared to newer plants. Mr. Tillman noted the difference between technologies for the existing facility and the new technologies for a Mass-Burn Facility. He pointed out the new technology was a simpler process with less staffing.
Commissioner Garcia asked about having meetings with the South Florida Regional Planning Council to discuss the sites for WTE because the issue was one affecting the region.
Mr. Morales stated the Administration had reached out to neighboring counties with regard to technical perspective. He mentioned Broward County was in the process of a reorganization and in the future, a regional approach could occur on this issue.
Commissioner Garcia and Mr. Tillman discussed the site considerations for the Airport West site, and the estimated mitigation costs, and the different types of environmental impacts that may be located on that site.
A discussion ensued between Commissioner Regalado and Mr. Tillman regarding why the Airport West site was not included in the initial report as it was a part of the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan (CERP) project area. Commissioner Regalado and Mr. Tillman continued their discussion of the following:
-The CERP project status,
-The buildout of the new facility and the transfer station,
-The air quality modeling, and
-The emissions/air dispersion model.
Following this discussion, Mr. Morales stated the County had a 40-year old system and transfer stations. Additionally, he stated the Airport West site. After consulting with Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP), would not have an adverse impact in the future therefore the Opa-locka Airport West was put back on the list for consideration.
A brief discussion ensued between Commissioner Bastien and Mr. Tillman regarding the Airport West Site, the RRF requirements, and as part of the FDEP permitting process, any potential health hazards.
Commissioner Higgins noted lengthy discussions held on the subject matter by the Board since 2018 when she came into office, and was told of the need for a new mass burn facility. She noted major European cities were converting to mass burn facilities because it was better for human health. She commented on Palm Beach�s facility and benefits being realized. Commissioner Higgins reminded the Board that Congress and the United States (US) Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) had tax credits available to convert or build new WTE facility plants. She commented it was important to move away from landfills because they produced methane that was bad for the environment.
Commissioner Higgins supported the move to a mass burn facility and stressed that the County should be concerned about losing tax credits if it did move quickly on this matter.
Commissioner Higgins supported the sites as recommended by the Administration. She noted the need to present and consider all three (3) sites. She acknowledged the increased costs were due to relocation and believed it was time to act.
Commissioner Higgins encouraged residents to talk to their Florida State House of Representative and Senator regarding zero waste policies.
Commissioner Higgins made comments on the title of the proposed resolutions presented at today�s (9/19) meeting. She asked in the future that the County Attorney�s office ensure the title of the proposed items reflect more details than just referencing a memorandum in the title.
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Special Item No. 1
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231835
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Resolution
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Oliver G. Gilbert, III
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RESOLUTION DIRECTING THE COUNTY MAYOR OR COUNTY MAYOR�S DESIGNEE TO PROCURE ALL SERVICES NEEDED TO RELOCATE AND REBUILD THE COUNTY�S WASTE TO ENERGY FACILITY OUTSIDE OF THE CITY OF DORAL CONTINGENT UPON THE PRIOR NEGOTIATION AND EXECUTION OF AN INTERLOCAL AGREEMENT WITH THE CITY OF DORAL FOR CONTRIBUTIONS TO PARTIALLY DEFRAY COSTS AND FUND THE RELOCATION, CONSTRUCTION, AND OPERATION OF A NEW WASTE TO ENERGY FACILITY, SUBJECT TO BOARD APPROVAL
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Amended
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REPORT:
See Special Item Number 1 Amended, Legislative File Number 232028 for amended version.
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Special Item No. 1 Amended
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232028
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Resolution
 Clerk's Official Copy
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Oliver G. Gilbert, III
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RESOLUTION DIRECTING THE COUNTY MAYOR OR COUNTY MAYOR�S DESIGNEE TO PRESENT THREE ALTERNATE WASTE-TO-ENERGY FACILITY SITES TO THE FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION FOR PRELIMINARY PERMIT AND REGULATORY REVIEW; DIRECTING THE COUNTY MAYOR OR COUNTY MAYOR�S DESIGNEE TO NEGOTIATE AN INTERLOCAL AGREEMENT WITH THE CITY OF DORAL FOR ANNUAL CONTRIBUTIONS TO PARTIALLY DEFRAY COSTS AND FUND THE RELOCATION, CONSTRUCTION, AND OPERATION OF A NEW WASTE TO ENERGY FACILITY OUTSIDE THE CITY OF DORAL, SUBJECT TO BOARD APPROVAL; AND TO PROVIDE A REPORT [SEE ORIGINAL ITEM UNDER FILE NO. 231835]
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Adopted as amended
Resolution R-821-23
Mover: Oliver G. Gilbert, III
Seconder: Raquel A. Regalado
Vote: 11 - 1
No: Bermudez
Excused: Rodriguez
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REPORT:
Commissioner Hardemon referenced Arcadis� report and reiterated the concerns regarding the distance from residential areas, noting the discrepancy in Microsoft PowerPoint presentation and Arcadis report. He expressed his sentiments to the Board that they should not vote on this matter today (9/19).
In response to Commissioner Hardemon�s comments regarding the distance, Mr. Jimmy Morales, Office of the Mayor, Chief Operations Officer, noted a map of the Airport West site was included in the agenda item. He stated the distance from the northeast corner of the Airport West site to the closest Broward County residents was 2,887 feet; the geographic information system (GIS) showed a little over a half mile. He stated the plant would be located on the southwest portion of the property, which was one mile from the City of Miramar, and referenced exhibit A to County Mayor Levine Cava�s memorandum.
Commissioner Cabrera agreed with Commissioner Higgins� comments regarding the need to make a decision and stated that the Board�s decision was contingent upon the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) and the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) approval of the Airport West site location. He stated he supported the three (3) sites in the order ranked by the County Mayor.
Commissioner Cohen Higgins acknowledged that the cost was her concern because the residents would have shoulder it. She acknowledged the financial breakdown, but noted the cost to residents was not provided. Commissioner Cohen Higgins stated it was still unclear to her what the increase in cost as proposed and how it translated to the County residents.
In response to Commissioner Cohen Higgins, Mr. Morales explained the calculated capital cost dollar was on a per-ton basis. He stated the Administration could run those numbers along with other variables to consider funding the Department and would provide those figures for the next meeting.
In response to Commissioner Cohen Higgins regarding the FDEP and the EPA permitting process, Mr. Morales explained the Administration�s preliminary review mostly focused on air quality modeling and the health issues associated with that modeling. He stated the feasibility of which site would be most suitable would be made after a simultaneous review each site, however the County would not go through a full permitting process for each individual site. Mr. Morales reminded the Board that the Administration recommended the Airport West site, which was the preferred site. He further commented that presumably, if favorably recommended by the federal agencies, the Administration would present a recommendation to the Board for consideration in order to proceed with the process.
Commissioner Cohen Higgins thanked residents for appearing at each meeting on this matter. She expressed her concerned about comments made by elected officials from other municipalities and counties. She commented it was important to her that the Administration need to be mindful of process in terms of the timeline and costs. Commissioner Cohen Higgins acknowledged that Doral might be the site due to the technological requirements. She stressed the need that the County keep options open at this time.
Commissioner Cohen Higgins expressed her concern about the methane production from landfill sites. She questioned whether there had been an evaluation done on the amount of methane released at the landfills for the next ten to fifteen years it would take to build the proposed new facility as opposed to a partial opening of the Covanta plant to offset methane levels.
In response to Commissioner Cohen Higgins� concern about the methane production from landfill sites, Mr. Tillman responded by stating Arcadis had evaluated the Covanta�s proposal and provided an overview of the reviewed proposal.
A brief discussion ensued between Commissioner Bermudez and Mr. Tillman about the northern boundary for the Everglades and the Everglades National Park boundary being closer to the Doral site than to Airport West site, the impacts to the Everglades and the residents, costs and the other potential sites being considered. Referred to the everglades national park boundary, which according to the map was closer to Doral than to airport west site.
Commissioner Bermudez commented on impact to Miami Lakes, Medley and Doral residents; and recognized the concerns voiced by City of Miramar Mayor Wayne Messam regarding Title VI implications, noting those implications would apply in the City of Doral as well. He commented he was not convinced that permitting on the Doral site would be as easy as it was 40 years ago. He spoke about the CERP issue and the proximity of the campus site to residential development, noting the objections raised regarding this matter.
Commissioner Bermudez referenced photos from a site visit report and noted that the Doral site was going to close with or without the fire that occurred. He pointed out the RRF required extensive work and more money than realized; he reviewed the comparable properties close to the existing site and the proposals before the Board today (9/19). He noted the Chairman�s proposal called for some expenses/operating costs to be negotiated with City of Doral within the next 30 days; and he stated that should the existing RRF was sold, the portion of the proceeds should be used to discount the costs to the residents of Doral. Commission Bermudez further stated that if a sale did not result, it would be unfair to the residents of Doral to continue limited service. He spoke regarding mitigation in perpetuity and that the Board should not make a decision today (9/19).
Commissioner Bermudez spoke of air quality modeling; and questioned the comments made earlier that only approximately 39 acres could be used at the Airport West site.
In response to Commissioner Bermudez� question Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava commented that wetlands could be mitigated and noted a discussion with the Department of Interior who suggested that it would be okay to include the Airport West site on the list. She noted the involvement in Everglades� restoration and her concern with those issues. Mayor Levine Cava stated the Administration was contemplating building an inland port, of which an additional acreage was needed and be reviewed as part of the modeling to determine how the Administration would proceed.
Commissioner Bermudez continued his comments by mentioning zero waste; finding a site that would satisfy the County long-term plan for solid waste, which included a campus-like facility. He referenced the following:
-His five proposals (Special Item Numbers 2, 3, 4 5, and 6);
-The immediate closure of current RRF;
-The experts report and his proposals, which was based on the County Mayor�s proposal to rank the potential sites for consideration; and whether it was the cities of Doral, Pinecrest, Miami Gardens, Miami, or Cutler Bay and the goal to have the facility a fair distance away from residents.
Commissioner Bermudez concurred with the expert that time was of essence and noted his five proposed resolutions on today�s (9/19) agenda were based upon a fair recommendation from the County Mayor�s perspective of taking the steps for a long-term solution to the County�s solid waste.
Commissioner Bastien questioned how the Administration would engage cities, whether inside or outside Miami-Dade County, if the Board made a decision today regarding the Opa-locka Airport West site. Additionally, if the County did not get a tax credit, she questioned how would the construction of the new facility be paid for and how much would the taxpayers be responsible for paying.
In response to Commissioner Bastien�s question, Mr. Morales responded if the County was not successful in obtaining the insurance proceeds or other funding means it would seek the issuance of bonds based on the flow of revenues generated. He proceeded to highlight the cost to build the facility, the location and other factors such as the construction cost and the debt service. Mr. Morales stated this matter was time sensitive and the County had a two (2)-year window with the insurance company from the date of the fire incident on obtaining the proceeds. He further stated the insurance company would allow for an extension if significant progress had been in made building a new facility.
In response to Commissioner Bastien�s question regarding the delay and the impact to the ratepayer if the Integrated Solid Waste Management Plan, Mr. Morales stated the Administration would need to run those numbers because it would affect the ratepayer. He commented the only alternative if the County did not build the facility would be landfills. Mr. Morales referenced Palm Beach County who had two WTE facilities and over time having those facilities limit the number of increases to the ratepayer. He further noted once the facility was financed and built this would lock-in the cost. Mr. Morales stated while building the facility would be expensive initially, in the long term, it would be a better way to control the cost.
Commissioner Bastien supported all three sites going through the process. She agreed with Commissioner Bermudez and thanked him for his leadership.
Chairman Gilbert explained the intent of the foregoing proposed resolution (Special Item Number 1). He spoke regarding intellectual noting that:
� Everglades National Park was not the same as the Everglades in terms of measuring length;
� The need to remediate wetlands in conversations regarding workforce housing as being done with this proposed facility;
� If able to speak with the Federal Government with sites in CERP, should be able to do so with other projects;
� Residents of Coral Gables, Miami Gardens and Pinecrest did not purchase their homes around a site as opposed to have a facility built around existing homes;
He stated that all things were not equal in the conversation regarding this matter, and spoke regarding the costs of the proposal and proprietary funding. He stated that if the facility was to be moved, it must be articulated that rates would be raised.
He thanked both mayors who spoke and expressed the County needed to find ways to consider all sites. Additionally, he stated the system needed to pay for itself.
Discussion ensured regarding:
-the proposed Opa Locka Airport West site, which had no covenant or title issues;
-air quality modeling report/details;
-option of giving the private sector opportunity to present options that may change the timeline to build and offer more tools and flexibility in finding solutions in the most sustainable way;
-financing mechanisms and the impact to the cost to build the facility;
-disposal fee fund;
-a sustainable campus approach to future Integrated Solid Waste Management System;
- allowance of the insurance proceeds to rebuild the facility on the current site or any location;
- proposed amendment by Commissioner Bermudez to request for 60 days instead of 30 days to obtain the consent of the City of Doral in terms of the Interlocal Agreement in choosing a site other than the current RRF;
- a proposed amendment by Chairman Gilbert that negotiations with City of Doral be predicated upon enactment of the proposal;
-an amendment by Commissioner Regalado that the contribution by the City of Doral be direct or through a financial vehicle such as a TIF or special benefit district;
-simultaneous consideration of three sites for new facility Opa-Locka West Airport (Airport West), Medley and Doral (the current RRF); and
- environmental cost and other shared costs with moving the RRF.
Following Commissioner Regalado�s comments, County Mayor Levine Cava expressed that the Administration�s intention was to complete the air modeling, and upon receiving a positive outcome from the air modeling, then move forward with EPA/FDEP permitting process with one site.
County Attorney Bonzon-Keenan read the proposed language of the new sections to the foregoing proposed resolution, which the Board amended as follows:
- To add a new Section 2, which directs the County Mayor or County Mayor�s designee to present all, three alternate sites (Opa-Locka Airport West, the existing Resource Recovery Facility (RRF) and the Medley sites) to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) as part of the preliminary review;
- Renumber the previous Section 2 to now become Section 3 to read as follows: �This Board directs the County Mayor or the County Mayor�s designee to proceed on an expedited basis to negotiate an Interlocal Agreement with the City of Doral (�Doral�) and by which Doral agrees to annually contribute funds to partially defray the additional costs associated with relocating and rebuilding the County�s waste-to-energy (WTE) facility. Should the County select a new site for such WTE facility outside the boundaries of Doral such contribution may be made by direct contribution or alternative funding mechanism including but not limited to a Tax Increment District (TID). Such Interlocal shall include the express agreement from Doral to contribute an annual basis and for the life of the operation of the WTE facility, an amount equivalent to, or not less than, the amount over and above three and one-half percent of the annual growth of the assessed value for the property and the properties located in whole or in part within a one-mile radius from the outer perimeter of the RRF but not to exceed the borders of Doral;
- Renumber the previous Section 3 to now become Section 4 to read as follows: �This Board furthers directs the County Mayor or the County Mayor�s designee to bring back the Interlocal Agreement to the full Board without committee review for Board approval within 60-days of adoption of a resolution selecting the site of a new WTE facility other than the existing Resource Recovery Facility site;
- Renumber the previous Section 4 to become Section 5 to read as follows: �In the event the County Mayor or the County Mayor�s designee is unable to obtain the consent of Doral to the terms of the Interlocal Agreement described in Section 2 hereof within 60 days of the adoption of a resolution selecting the site of a new WTE Facility other than the existing Resource Recovery Facility site, the Mayor shall report such to the Board for the Board�s approval of an alternate site.�
A discussion ensued regarding establishing a radius for the air quality models and utilizing said radius at all three (3) sites.
Commissioner Regalado asked the Administration for a report from the Department of Regulatory and Economic Resources, Office of Environmental Resources Management outlining specifically the mitigation of the bats, the tiger beetles and other species on the Opa-Locka Airport West Site.
Hearing no further questions or comments, the Board proceeded to vote on the foregoing proposed resolution as amended.
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Special Item No. 2
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231681
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Resolution
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Juan Carlos Bermudez
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RESOLUTION PERTAINING TO SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT; SUPPORTING RECOMMENDATIONS NUMBERS ONE AND TWO CONTAINED IN THE COUNTY MAYOR�S AUGUST 18, 2023 REPORT RELATED TO THE DEVELOPMENT OF AN INTEGRATED SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT PLAN IN MIAMI-DADE COUNTY; AUTHORIZING THE COUNTY MAYOR OR COUNTY MAYOR�S DESIGNEE TO ISSUE SOLICITATIONS, COMMENCE PROCUREMENTS, PURSUE FINANCING ALTERNATIVES, SEEK ENVIRONMENTAL APPROVALS, AND START OTHER REGULATORY APPROVAL PROCESSES; AND TO PROVIDE A REPORT
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Deferred
to
No Date Certain
Mover: Juan Carlos Bermudez
Seconder: Oliver G. Gilbert, III
Vote: 12 - 0
Excused: Rodriguez
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REPORT:
The Board deferred the foregoing proposed resolution to no date certain as requested by Commissioner Bermudez.
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Special Item No. 3
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231807
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Resolution
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Juan Carlos Bermudez
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RESOLUTION PERTAINING TO SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT; SUPPORTING RECOMMENDATION NUMBER THREE CONTAINED IN THE COUNTY MAYOR�S AUGUST 18, 2023 REPORT RELATED TO THE DEVELOPMENT OF AN INTEGRATED SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT PLAN IN MIAMI-DADE COUNTY; AUTHORIZING AND DIRECTING THE COUNTY MAYOR OR COUNTY MAYOR�S DESIGNEE TO ISSUE SOLICITATIONS, COMMENCE PROCUREMENTS, AND NEGOTIATE CONTRACTS NECESSARY TO PRESENT ALTERNATIVE WASTE TO ENERGY SITES FOR PRELIMINARY PERMIT AND REGULATORY REVIEW; AND TO PROVIDE A REPORT
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Deferred
to
No Date Certain
Mover: Juan Carlos Bermudez
Seconder: Oliver G. Gilbert, III
Vote: 12 - 0
Excused: Rodriguez
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REPORT:
The Board deferred the foregoing proposed resolution to no date certain as requested by Commissioner Bermudez.
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Special Item No. 4
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231808
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Resolution
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Juan Carlos Bermudez
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RESOLUTION PERTAINING TO SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT; SUPPORTING RECOMMENDATION NUMBER SEVEN CONTAINED IN THE COUNTY MAYOR�S AUGUST 18, 2023 REPORT RELATED TO THE DEVELOPMENT OF AN INTEGRATED SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT PLAN IN MIAMI-DADE COUNTY; AND AUTHORIZING THE COUNTY MAYOR OR COUNTY MAYOR�S DESIGNEE TO NEGOTIATE CONTRACTS FOR ADDITIONAL DISPOSAL CAPACITY, SUBJECT TO BOARD APPROVAL
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Deferred
to
No Date Certain
Mover: Juan Carlos Bermudez
Seconder: Oliver G. Gilbert, III
Vote: 12 - 0
Excused: Rodriguez
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REPORT:
The Board deferred the foregoing proposed resolution to no date certain as requested by Commissioner Bermudez.
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Special Item No. 5
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231806
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Resolution
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Juan Carlos Bermudez
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RESOLUTION PERTAINING TO SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT; SUPPORTING RECOMMENDATION NUMBER EIGHT CONTAINED IN THE COUNTY MAYOR�S AUGUST 18, 2023 REPORT RELATED TO THE DEVELOPMENT OF AN INTEGRATED SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT PLAN IN MIAMI-DADE COUNTY; AUTHORIZING THE COUNTY MAYOR OR COUNTY MAYOR�S DESIGNEE TO NEGOTIATE DOCUMENTS; AND TO PROVIDE A REPORT
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Amended
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REPORT:
See Special Item Number 5 Amended, Legislative File Number 232035 for the amended version.
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Special Item No. 5 Amended
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232035
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Resolution
Clerk's Official Copy
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Juan Carlos Bermudez
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RESOLUTION PERTAINING TO SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT; DIRECTING THE COUNTY MAYOR OR COUNTY MAYOR�S DESIGNEE TO NEGOTIATE ANY DOCUMENTS NECESSARY FOR THE EXISTING RESOURCES RECOVERY FACILITY NOT TO BE RESTORED AND REACTIVATED AT THE CURRENT SITE, SUBJECT TO BOARD APPROVAL, AND TO PROVIDE A REPORT [SEE ORIGINAL ITEM UNDER FILE NO. 231806]
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Adopted as amended
Resolution R-822-23
Mover: Juan Carlos Bermudez
Seconder: Keon Hardemon
Vote: 11 - 1
No: Higgins
Excused: Rodriguez
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REPORT:
Following consideration of Special Item Number 1, as amended, Commissioner Bermudez moved that the Board defer the foregoing proposed resolution to no date certain. This motion was seconded by Chairman Gilbert, III, and upon being put to a vote, passed a vote of 12-0 (Commissioner Rodriguez was absent).
Later in the meeting, Miami-Dade County Mayor Danielle Levine Cava wanted to make the Board aware that not making a decision about the existing resource recovery facility (RRF) would cost the County money. She noted the County was in negotiations as to what that cost would be for the existing RRF because it was not a cost neutral decision.
Mr. Jimmy Morales, Chief Operations Officer, Office of the County Mayor, stated the Administration would meet with Covanta to devise a plan to shut down the facility and clear the site, which would take up to one (1) year. He stated Covanta currently had employees/staff preserving the site and working with the insurance adjusters. Additionally, he indicated that the County would have to decide whether to restore the site or shut it down. Mr. Morales commented that whether or not the Board made decision today, the Administration would continue to work with Covanta to preserve the site until the Board made its decision.
A discussion ensued among the Board members and Ms. Achaya Kelapanda, Deputy Director, Operations, Office of Technical Services, Department of Solid Waste Management pertaining to the current $1million per month to continue operation at the current RRF site; and this cost would be for the current Covanta employees on staff in the event the Board decides to reopen the RRF. Additionally, renegotiate the contract to process 400,000 tons per year going forward, which the Administration did not support.
County Mayor Levine Cava responded the Administration presented a recommendation that the Board decide today (9/19) regarding not to reopen the RRF so that the Administration could take steps to close it down fully.
In response to Chairman Gilbert, III�s question pertaining to what it would cost per month to close down the RRF, Mr. Kelapanda responded it would take about six (6) months to work with Covanta.
County Mayor Levine Cava noted currently the Administration was negotiating with Covanta, and would prefer to incur the cost for maintaining a certain number of employees based on whether the RRF would reopen; and it would take four (4) to six (6) months to negotiate at the lowest possible cost to close the site.
County Mayor Levine Cava stated closing the current site would cost less money than keeping it open and not being able to operate fully.
The Board members held a brief discussion regarding the County Mayor�s recommendation number four that addressed the North Dade Landfill Expansion and the Private Landfill Capacity; a potential litigation with Covanta; meeting with the County Attorney to review the options before the Board make a decision; and allowing the County Mayor to present more information on this matter.
County Mayor Levine Cava clarified that her last memorandum spoke to negotiating an increase capacity for landfills concurrency issues. She informed the Board that Covanta would like to continue operation with trash only. County Mayor Levine Cava stated if the Board was to choose Doral as the future site it would be a different plant/facility.
Commissioner Hardemon expressed he took issue with the cost to run a facility that residents would have to pay for as the cost would be passed onto them. He stated unless the Board made an explicit decision to use the General Funds to subsidize the cost for garbage, trash and recycling in Miami-Dade County, the residents should pay the fee. He noted the County Mayor�s recommendation number three closure of the RRF.
It was moved by Commissioner Bermudez to reconsider Special Item Number 5. This motion was seconded by Commissioner Hardemon, and upon being put to a vote, passed by a vote of 12-0 (Commissioner Rodriguez was absent).
Commissioner Bermudez moved based on the County Mayor�s recommendation for closure of the RRF and instructed the County Mayor to move forward with closing the RRF as it exists today (9/19). Commissioner Hardemon seconded the motion for discussion.
A discussion ensued among the Board members regarding the Section 2 of the foregoing proposed resolution/County Mayor�s recommendation number 8 that the existing County�s Resources Recovery Facility (RRF) should not be restored and reactivated at the current Doral site, subject to the Board approval.
Commissioner Bermudez stated he had no problem with no reference to future site locations. Additionally, he instructed the Administration to move forward with not having this facility in operation right now, but that another plant should not be precluded from built built there in the future.
In response to Commissioner Gonzalez� comments pertaining to legal ramifications before making decision to close the current RRF, County Attorney Geri Bonzon-Keenan asked to have a briefing with Commissioner Gonzalez regarding those matters. She stated the motion was directing the Administration to negotiate the decommission of the existing site and this resolution did not addressed that and would be amended to make clear that it does not address any future sites going forward; this only dealt with the existing site. She stated that subsequently, any agreements would come back to the Board for approval.
Commissioner Bermudez stated the Board members received a letter from Covanta that outlined what Covanta want the Board to do with the current RRF parcel of land, which he disagreed with. He stated that the proposed resolution was instructing the County Mayor to move forward with closure and then come back to Board in 90-days.
Further discussion ensued among the Board members and members of the County Administration pertaining to the closure of the existing RRF, the budgetary impact, the disposal fund and the current work occurring on-site.
Hearing no further questions or comments, the foregoing proposed resolution was amended to remove any language/reference to future site locations and to instruct the County Mayor to proceed with the closure of the existing Resource Recovery Facility; and to provide a report to the Board for consideration within 90 days without committee review, outlining the steps and actions required to decommission the facility.
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Special Item No. 6
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231809
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Resolution
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Juan Carlos Bermudez
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RESOLUTION PERTAINING TO SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT; SUPPORTING RECOMMENDATION NUMBER NINE CONTAINED IN THE COUNTY MAYOR�S AUGUST 18, 2023 REPORT RELATED TO THE DEVELOPMENT OF AN INTEGRATED SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT PLAN IN MIAMI-DADE COUNTY; DIRECTING THE COUNTY MAYOR OR COUNTY MAYOR�S DESIGNEE TO DEVELOP STRATEGIES TO OBTAIN FEDERAL AND STATE PERMITS FOR A NEW WASTE TO ENERGY FACILITY; AND TO PROVIDE A REPORT
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Deferred
to
No Date Certain
Mover: Juan Carlos Bermudez
Seconder: Oliver G. Gilbert, III
Vote: 12 - 0
Excused: Rodriguez
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REPORT:
The Board deferred the foregoing proposed resolution to no date certain as requested by Commissioner Bermudez.
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Special Item No. 7
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231816
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Report
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SUPPLEMENTAL MEMORANDUM TO THE REPORT RELATED TO THE DEVELOPMENT OF AN INTEGRATED SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT PLAN IN MIAMI-DADE COUNTY, DATED SEPTEMBER 6, 2023, AND TRANSMITTAL OF THE PRELIMINARY SOLID WASTE SYSTEM SITING ALTERNATIVES REPORT PREPARED BY ARCADIS(Mayor)
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Accepted
Report
Mover: Juan Carlos Bermudez
Seconder: Oliver G. Gilbert, III
Vote: 12 - 0
Excused: Rodriguez
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REPORT:
Hearing no questions or comments, the Board voted to accept the foregoing report as presented.
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15F
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NON-AGENDA ITEM(S)
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15F1
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240377
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Report
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NON-AGENDA ITEM REPORT FOR THE SEPTEMBER 19, 2023, BOARD SPECIAL MEETING
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Presented
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REPORT:
Chairman Gilbert moved to request the County Administration to allow for the Request for Proposal (RFP) to engage public private partnership (P3s) and private ownership input during procurement for this item. This motion was seconded by Commissioner Regalado, and upon being put to a vote, passed by a vote of 12-0, (Commissioner Rodriguez was absent).
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ADJOURNMENT
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REPORT:
Hearing no further business coming before the Board, the meeting adjourned at 3:52 p.m.
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3
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CONSENT AGENDA
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| 8/7/2026 |
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Agenda Key: 4987 |