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1
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MINUTES PREPARED BY:
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REPORT:
Jos� Soto, Commission Reporter (305) 375-1294
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1A
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INVOCATION AS PROVIDED IN RULE 5.05(H)
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REPORT:
Vice Chairman McGhee led the invocation followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.
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1B
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ROLL CALL
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REPORT:
Chairman Rodriguez called the Committee of the Whole (COTW or Committee) meeting to order at 9:36 a.m.
In addition to Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava and the Committee members, the following staff members were present:
- Mr. Jimmy Morales, Chief of Operations, Office of the Mayor;
- Mr. Roy Coley, Miami-Dade County Chief Utilities and Regulatory Services Officer, Office of the Mayor;
-County Attorney (CA) Geri Bonzon-Keenan;
-First Assistant County Attorney Gerald Sanchez;
- Assistant County Attorneys (ACA) David Stephen Hope, Cynji Lee, Terrence Smith, and Michael Valdes;
- Ms. Aneisha Daniel, Director, Miami-Dade Department of Solid Waste Management (DSWM);
- Mr. Achaya Kelapanda, Deputy Director, DSWM;
- Ms. Lourdes Gomez, Director, Miami-Dade Department of Regulatory and Economic Resources (RER); and
-Deputy Clerks Basia Pruna, Linda Cave and Jos� Soto, Clerk of the Board.
Chairman Rodriguez stated the intent of today�s meeting was to have a discussion about managing solid waste in the County. He noted that the topics for the discussion would include exploring viable options for developing a new waste-to-energy (WTE) facility in the County, partnerships with private entities to design, build and operate the facility, transporting waste out of the County and expanding the County�s landfill capacity. The conversations, Chairman Rodriguez continued, would focus on directives to the Administration and finalize legislation for consideration at the upcoming Board of County Commissioners (Board) meeting on February 19, 2025.
Commissioner Regalado inquired about the deadline for submitting additional legislation related to the solid waste discussion agenda.
Chairman Rodriguez informed her that she had until Wednesday to file items for consideration at committee.
Commissioner Higgins addressed the composting-related agenda item, explaining that County Code amendments were required. She stated that the item would be presented on First Reading during the February 4, 2025 Board meeting without public comment. Commissioner Higgins indicated that she would have the County Code changes prepared for the second Board meeting in February, after which the item would proceed to committee in March 2025.
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1C
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PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
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2
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ITEM(S)
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2A
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250153
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Report
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SECOND UPDATE ON DIRECTIVE NO. 241676 - SOLID WASTE CAMPUS(Mayor)
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Presented
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REPORT:
Chairman Rodriguez confirmed with CA Bonzon-Keenan that Agenda Items 2A and 2B could be considered together.
CA Bonzon-Keenan acknowledged that Commissioner Regalado had two additional items to be walked on to the agenda and indicated these would be added once distributed.
Mayor Levine Cava addressed the Committee regarding solid waste management challenges facing the County. She emphasized her commitment to delivering quality services while protecting residents, the environment, ratepayers, and taxpayers, and ensuring efficient service delivery without creating undue financial burden on families already struggling with rising costs.
Mayor Levine Cava stated that the administration's research confirmed a new WTE facility built to modern standards would be safe for people and the environment. However, she noted that construction and maintenance costs had proven extremely high, and any selected site would likely face legal and other challenges that would significantly extend the project timeline and add to costs.
Mayor Levine Cava recommended continuing to long-haul waste via truck and rail using contracted capacity to landfills. She noted this was also a safe, heavily regulated option and cited that other dense communities like New York and California transported their waste to landfills in other states. She requested the Committee's discussion and direction to move forward.
Ms. Daniel provided a PowerPoint presentation which highlighted the current state of the County�s waste management system, identified key challenges and possible solutions. She stated that the challenges faced by the County included:
1) Increased generation of waste due to population growth;
2) Issues with recycling and waste diversion;
3) The closure of the Resources Recovery Facility (RRF) in the City of Doral (Doral);
4) Closed landfills;
5) Public relations; and
6) Environmental and health concerns.
Ms. Daniel informed the Committee that the County�s North Dade Landfill and South Dade Landfill would reach capacity in five years and four years, respectively, which meant the County had to rely on private landfills to meet waste disposal needs.
Ms. Daniel reported that to address environmental and public health concerns regarding what could be built and where, DSWM requested Arcadis to conduct a preliminary qualitative human health and ecological screening level risk assessment on waste-to-energy for the sites being considered. Arcadis also conducted a greenhouse gas emissions comparison of different waste management technologies. Ms. Daniel stated that those reports were provided and emphasized the County's commitment to ensuring that the path forward would be safe, clean, and compliant.
Ms. Daniel emphasized the urgency of making a decision due to multiple timeline pressures, including concurrency requirements, insurance proceeds, and landfills reaching capacity. She explained that Florida statutes mandated the County demonstrate five-year disposal capacity, which was maintained through contracts with outside contractors. Regarding insurance proceeds, Ms. Daniel noted the County had negotiated an extension with the RFF insurers, moving the two-year deadline to February 2026. She stated that if the deadline was not met and a replacement was not built, the County would receive insurance proceeds based on actual cash value of the property, which could be over 50 percent less than the replacement cost. Ms. Daniel also reported that according to the November 2024 landfill capacity report, if no additional disposal capacity was constructed, the North Dade landfill was expected to reach capacity in approximately five years and the South Dade landfill in four years. She added that the Department would face immediate post-closure liability once those landfills closed, costing approximately $48 million over 30 years.
Ms. Daniel provided details on options for addressing the County�s situation with waste disposal and capacity, which included:
1) Building a landfill located outside of the County. This would involve environmental assessments, acquiring land, infrastructure development, high operating costs, regulatory and community challenges, and cost about $556 million to develop;
2) Use private contracted landfills in the County. The County was currently relying on this method and 71 percent of the County�s waste was being sent to these landfills because of the loss of the RRF; and
3) Design and develop a new WTE facility to replace the RRF. Ms. Daniel noted that potential locations in the County included the current site of the RFF in Doral. She detailed the cost and logistics for developing a new WTE facility in each of the potential sites and would take several years to complete.
Ms. Daniel concluded her presentation with an overview of DSWM's current financial position and a ten-year outlook. The presentation showed that expenditures would outpace expected revenues over the ten-year period, with the revenue-expense gap widening significantly in 2028-2029 when the landfills were projected to close and reach capacity, ultimately depleting unrestricted carryover funds. Ms. Daniel outlined potential funding mechanisms for new capital projects, including continuing the current fee-based structure with Consumer Price Index (CPI) increases, implementing countywide ad valorem tax adjustments, establishing special assessments, or pursuing a Public-Private Partnership (P3).
Commissioner Gilbert III expressed concerns about the financial projections, questioning why collection and disposal fees would not cover projected expenditures when the Board established policy during the July 16, 2024 meeting to automatically increase fees to fund the waste disposal system
Ms. Daniel responded that the fee increases would sustain waste collection but not disposal due to increased tip fees at landfills, and noted the projections did not include CPI data.
Mr. Morales clarified that the current fee structure's revenue stream would not cover future projected expenditures without significant fee increases.
Commissioner Gilbert III stated the administration needed to recommend a suitable rate to maintain the County's waste disposal system in perpetual financial stability. He also indicated he could not support developing an out-of-county landfill due to development difficulties in the state and the lack of definite plans from DSWM.
Responding to Commissioner Gilbert�s III inquiry about RRF insurance issues, Mr. Coley explained that the insurance company covering the RRF and an independent estimator hired by the County had produced different valuations of the facility, with the independent estimate being higher. He noted these differences required negotiation with the insurance company.
Mr. Coley stated that exploring out-of-county landfills was to determine cost efficiency compared to contracting landfills within the County, and informed the Committee that the County had contracted landfill capacity for 30 years with vendors having additional space for up to 100 years.
Commissioner Gilbert III confirmed with Mr. Coley that the RRF land value was unknown and asked if the County would receive replacement value if it decided not to build a new WTE facility.
ACA David Hope explained that if the facility was not replaced, the County would be entitled to actual cash value minus depreciation.
Mayor Levine Cava noted the administration was negotiating with the insurance company about the land value, which was why a final value had not been provided.
Mr. Coley confirmed that the independent estimator's report had been sent to the insurance company for review.
Commissioner Gilbert III pointed out that DSWM's website claimed landfills created more methane gas than WTE facilities and would be more expensive long-term, contradicting the administration's recommendation to continue using landfills. He stated he did not support making a decision at today's meeting because the administration's recommendation kept changing.
Vice Chairman McGhee concurred with Commissioner Gilbert III, noting the information provided at the July 16 Board meeting about collection and disposal fees contradicted what DSWM presented at today's meeting.
Commissioner Regalado commented that the presentation only provided financing options to be exclusively paid by County residents. She stated her sponsored agenda items presented alternative ideas for addressing the waste disposal situation and would offer different funding options for DSWM. She also pointed out that regulatory changes were not being considered and noted that County regulations would not permit some of the options mentioned due to the County's geology.
Commissioner Bermudez inquired about the status and details of the three existing landfills in the County. Ms. Daniel provided details about the North Dade Landfill, a Class 3 landfill with five (5) years of capacity remaining, and the South Dade Landfill, a Class 1 landfill with four (4) years remaining.
Mr. Kelapanda reported that the Medley Landfill, a Class 1 landfill, would reach capacity in six (6) years.
Ms. Daniel informed Commissioner Bermudez that the North Dade Landfill accepted 125,000 tons of waste, the South Dade Landfill accepted 750,000 tons, and the Medley Landfill accepted approximately 600,000 tons. She confirmed that DSWM did not store waste at the Airport West site.
Ms. Gomez reported that the Airport West site was used to store sargassum seaweed.
Discussion ensued among Commissioner Bermudez, Mr. Coley, and Mr. Kelapanda regarding the RRF and its replacement cost. Mr. Coley confirmed the insurance company would pay the County $60 million if a replacement facility was not built.
Regarding the Okeechobee Landfill, Mr. Coley stated it was owned by Waste Management, Inc. and had capacity for 100 years. Mr. Kelapanda noted the Okeechobee Landfill received approximately 600,000 tons of waste after the RFF closed.
Responding to Commissioner Bermudez�s inquiry as to whether a P3 was considered, Ms. Daniel replied the option was being discussed but could not provide additional information.
Mr. Coley emphasized the administration was willing to explore all options.
Mr. Morales provided details about Palm Beach County's waste disposal system, which was owned by the Solid Waste Authority of Palm Beach County but privately operated.
Ms. Daniel noted DSWM's projections assumed personnel and operational growth.
Commissioner Bermudez questioned whether the administration had discussions with Palm Beach County about using its WTE facility to process some of the County's waste.
Mr. Coley and Mr. Kelapanda replied that Palm Beach was decommissioning one WTE facility and a new one did not have capacity for additional waste.
Commissioner Bermudez asked if the County had discussions with Broward County for regional solutions. Mayor Levine Cava replied there had been talks with several councils in Broward but no specific negotiations.
Mr. Kelapanda informed Commissioner Bermudez that vendor pricing from Waste Management and Waste Connections for transporting waste would not change and there was a CPI rate effective through October 2026. He indicated landfill lifetime capacity depended on acceptance rates and provided details about facilities being built in Okeechobee and Medley by Waste Management to convert methane gas from landfills into fuel.
Responding to Commissioner Bermudez's request for information about zero waste policies, Mayor Levine Cava stated the administration had contracted a consultant to study waste reduction and was developing target goals based on the consultant's findings. She informed Commissioner Bermudez that at her request, the City of Miami (Miami) deferred an item to eliminate its recycling program, noting there would be legal challenges if adopted and it would contradict the County's legal obligations.
Mayor Levine Cava informed Commissioner Bermudez that at her request, Miami deferred an item to eliminate its recycling program. She indicated there would be legal challenges to eliminating the recycling program if the item was adopted by Miami and the elimination would contradict the County�s legal obligations.
Commissioner Bermudez stated there should have been more Board meetings regarding the process before the rate increase was approved and the administration should have provided the presentation to Committee members sooner. He commented that the County should not disregard the will of County Commission District 12 residents who voted for development of a regional park that had not yet been developed.
Commissioner Cabrera expressed concerns about the County's waste management transfer station in County Commission District 6, which had increased waste intake by approximately 25 percent since the RFF closed. He inquired about efforts to reduce waste and odor from the site.
Ms. Daniel stated DSWM was working on a fifty-year recertification process at the transfer station.
Mr. Kelapanda provided additional information, noting the County's transfer stations were forty to fifty years old and needed upgrades. He discussed the recertification process at the District 6 site, including structural and electrical inspections and studying improvements.
Ms. Daniel indicated new technologies were being researched to reduce odor.
Mr. Kelapanda reported that new technologies and renovations were part of the budget, recertification was nearly complete, and the department processed and removed waste delivered to the site within 24 hours. He noted operations would be more efficient once rail transfers became operational.
Commissioner Cabrera requested Mr. Kelapanda provide a report to the Board detailing new technologies for the County's transfer stations and implementation timelines.
Commissioner Higgins voiced concerns with the recommendation to use landfills, noting environmental issues and inefficiency based on past memoranda from the administration and information on the County's website. She cited environmental hazards from landfills including significant carbon dioxide emissions and methane gases that trapped heat at a larger rate than CO2.
Commissioner Higgins stated other countries used efficient WTE facilities producing low-cost energy and noted the County charged her district's municipal residents tipping fees that would increase with expanded landfill use. She did not support raising taxes and fees when more environmentally friendly and cost-efficient alternatives existed.
Vice Chairman McGhee confirmed with Ms. Daniel that the South Dade Landfill processed 750,000 tons of waste, an increase after the RFF closed.
Mr. Kelapanda informed him the increase was approximately 200,000 tons and noted the South Dade Landfill was the only facility in the south region that could process Class I waste from private haulers, the City of Homestead, and the City of Coral Gables. He stressed the landfill did not accept fat, oil, and grease waste.
Mr. Coley clarified that fat, oil, and grease waste was accepted at the South District Wastewater Treatment Plant.
Vice Chairman McGhee pointed out there was an odor issue in the south due to the South Dade Landfill and fat, oil, and grease waste.
Mr. Coley stated the fat, oil, and grease waste did not contribute to the odor since such waste had been accepted at the plant for several years, and biosolids at the plant caused the odor.
Vice Chairman McGhee noted he had information indicating the odor came from a combination of the fat, oil, and grease waste and the landfill, and confirmed for the record that the south received increased waste despite being informed otherwise in a previous meeting. He emphasized the need to devise solutions to the waste disposal situation.
Senator Garcia voiced concerns about the information provided, questioning which option, landfill or WTE facility, would be more cost-effective per ton of waste.
Mr. Coley explained the WTE facility cost was based on wide-ranging estimates from the Administration's consultant and noted organized opposition to three proposed locations would add to development costs. He stated the administration did not have a cost per ton for a WTE facility due to many anticipated additional costs, including approximately $2 billion in development costs and $150 million annually for debt service. With landfills, he explained the administration had clear information about contracted space costs.
Senator Garcia pointed out that based on his data, landfills would be more expensive, he then inquired if a P3 had been explored for a WTE facility, composting, or landfills.
After Mr. Coley replied a P3 was not explored, Mayor Levine Cava stated several options were studied and the administration presented cost estimates and scientific information to the best of its ability, adding the administration was receptive to a P3.
Senator Garcia stated the information provided was not reliable because it contradicted previous information from the administration. He would not support any item that was not comprehensive in addressing the waste disposal situation, especially if it did not include a WTE facility.
Commissioner Bastien advised the administration to develop a comprehensive plan and asked what was being done to present a zero waste program vision to County residents.
Mayor Levine Cava replied the administration was addressing the situation comprehensively. She noted a resiliency officer had been assigned to DSWM to assist with zero waste procurement, and consultants were contracted to devise comprehensive strategies. Mayor Levine Cava stated significant waste had been eliminated from County facilities through policies such as enhanced recycling, stressed the need for public involvement with education and engagement, and commended environmental groups working with the administration.
Mayor Levine Cava emphasized the administration had responded to every County Commission request, provided information, sought guidance from the Board, and stood by the recommendation.
Responding to Commissioner Cohen Higgins' inquiry if the recommendation would be final, Mayor Levine Cava emphasized it was based on the need to act quickly and resolve the waste disposal situation, reiterating the Administration sought guidance from the Board if it wanted a different solution.
Commissioner Cohen Higgins noted discrepancies between the current recommendation and previous administration statements about landfill negatives, asking if both viewpoints were reconciled.
Mayor Levine Cava stated a WTE facility did not pose health or environmental risks but development costs and logistics were prohibitive compared to continuing landfill use. She added that zero waste strategies were being studied, along with purchasing space for a landfill outside the County, and the administration would work with local communities and regional groups to develop new strategies.
Commissioner Cohen Higgins voiced concerns with the recommendation, referring to previous memoranda and Arcadis reports revealing landfills were not environmentally friendly. She stated the recommendation was not a solution and sought explanation for why the administration now recommended continuing landfill use when a dedicated landfill was not yet developed.
Mayor Levine Cava pointed out that according to experts at the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and other environmental regulatory agencies, both WTE facilities and landfills were recommended and regulated options, adding that methane gas from landfills would be converted to energy.
Mr. Coley stated the County would save money using landfills versus developing a WTE facility, citing other cities using this method. He informed Commissioner Cohen Higgins the County had contracted capacity for 30 years for all waste and contracted landfills had capacity for up to 100 years. Mr. Coley stated many hurdles to developing a WTE facility were not accounted for in previous reports, which would increase costs and take years to develop.
Commissioner Gilbert III stated the administration disregarded the WTE facility option due to opposition from groups and communities.
Mayor Levine Cava stressed that the cost of potential delays were considered when the administration made its recommendation.
Commissioner Higgins maintained that only a few people opposed the proposed sites and emphasized no communities excluded WTE facilities from zero waste policies. She added the landfill recommendation would delay permits and other logistics for a facility, remarking a WTE facility was the best option for the planet and County residents who did not oppose it.
Mayor Levine Cava pointed out San Francisco and other American cities and states did not utilize zero waste policies and successfully reduced waste. Commissioner Higgins responded that the Board studied other countries that successfully implemented comprehensive zero waste policies.
Commissioner Higgins responded that the Board studied other countries which successfully implemented comprehensive zero waste policies.
Commissioner Gilbert III commented that achieving zero waste required reducing waste generation and emphasized educating children about recycling and reducing waste. He mentioned introducing an item at a later meeting to address this and suggested making public recycling more available to tourists.
Chairman Rodriguez reminded the Committee the items on today�s agenda would be forwarded to committee for public discussion then to the full Board for adoption.
There being no further comments or questions, the Committee accepted the reports.
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2B
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250166
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Presentation
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Anthony Rodriguez
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SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT ANALYSIS AND UPDATE(Mayor)
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Presented
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REPORT:
See Agenda Item 2A, Legislative File No. 250153.
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2C
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250079
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Resolution
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Juan Carlos Bermudez
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RESOLUTION DIRECTING THE COUNTY MAYOR OR COUNTY MAYOR�S DESIGNEE TO ASSESS AND EVALUATE THE COUNTY�S LANDFILL CAPACITY, DETERMINE IF IT IS IN COUNTY�S BEST INTEREST TO EXPAND CAPACITY, AND VIABILITY OF SUCH LANDFILL EXPANSION, PERFORM A COST/SAVINGS ANALYSIS OF OPTIONS FOR SUCH EXPANSION, AND PREPARE AND PROVIDE A REPORT
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Presented
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REPORT:
Chairman Rodriguez reminded the Committee that the majority of the items on today�s agenda would be forwarded to committee where they would have a full discussion and a public hearing then it would be forwarded to the Board for adoption.
CA Bonzon-Keenan read the title of the foregoing proposed resolution into the record.
Chairman Rodriguez explained that the item was a directive to the County Mayor.
Commissioner Bermudez emphasized that the County�s landfill capacity had to be assessed and evaluated. He commented that a new WTE facility by itself would not solve the County�s waste disposal situation and that landfills were still needed. He also mentioned that a study by the British Broadcasting Company (BBC) determined that WTE facilities produced �dirty energy�, which was not environmentally friendly.
Commissioner Bermudez requested the administration provide to the Board before February 10, 2025 a specific cost analysis report on the information in Section 2 of the foregoing proposed resolution, including an itemization to determine if landfill expansion in the County would be cost efficient for the County and its municipalities based on predicted tonnage of waste.
Commissioner Regalado pointed out that the chemicals created at landfills can be recycled such as methane gas and such potential had to be fully explored. She also noted that many decommissioned landfills were sold to private entities who then developed the land. She added that such developments could be a source of revenue for the County.
Commissioner Regalado asked the administration to include in the foregoing proposed resolution information about the financial options of P3s for the County�s landfills and reusing decommissioned landfills for development.
Commissioner Gilbert III expressed his concerns had regarding illegal waste in his district and the City of Miami Gardens (Miami Gardens) not being permitted to transport waste to the North Dade Landfill and efforts to address the situation. He also inquired what were the plans for the North Dade Landfill and if it would be decommissioned. For reference, he mentioned that the Northwest 58th Street Landfill was decommissioned and converted into the Miami-Dade Regional Soccer Park without plans to decommission it.
Commissioner Gilbert III supported a system-wide approach to addressing the waste disposal issue in the County, but opined that his district should not solely be burdened with tackling the issue, and he did not support expanding the North Dade Landfill.
Commissioner Bermudez also supported a system-wide approach and reiterated that the Board needed to fully know the status of the County�s landfills. He also pointed out that the soccer park was actually adjacent to the decommissioned landfill and mentioned his plan to combine the park and landfill.
There being no further comments or questions, the Committee forwarded the foregoing proposed resolution to the Infrastructure, Innovation and Technology Committee (IITC), as presented.
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2D
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250141
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Resolution
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Juan Carlos Bermudez
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RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING AND APPROVING THE SITE SELECTION FOR A NEW WASTE TO ENERGY FACILITY OTHER THAN IN THE CITY OF DORAL, TOWN OF MEDLEY, OR NORTHWEST 58TH STREET
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Presented
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REPORT:
CA Bonzon-Keenan read the title of the foregoing proposed resolution into the record.
Commissioner Bermudez remarked that a new WTE facility should not be located in the City of Doral (Doral), the Town of Medley (Medley) nor the Northwest 58th Street Landfill. He also asked the Committee members for their support of the foregoing proposed resolution.
Commissioner Gilbert III stated he did not have a preferred location for the WTE facility and noted that locating it outside Doral would require Tax Increment Financing (TIF) contributions from the existing Doral site to finance development. He indicated he was amenable to the Mayor's recommendation to continue using landfills instead of constructing a WTE facility, but questioned how this option would affect previously adopted Board policy.
After noting that each County Commission District had facilities that handled waste, Commissioner Regalado pointed out that moving waste disposal infrastructure would be costly. She continued that these parcels were assets for the DSWM which should be monetized to benefit the department and County residents if they were not to be used by the DSWM. She opined that a TIF was necessary because the value of the land and properties around the decommissioned RRF in Doral would increase dramatically if the facility was not rebuilt.
Commissioner Regalado added that a portion of the revenue from the TIF had to be allocated to the DSWM to fund future projects.
Commissioner Regalado asked Commissioner Bermudez to consider what would happen to the RFF site if the facility was not rebuilt there. She suggested the land be developed to generate revenue for the DSWM.
Commissioner Bermudez acknowledged that some of the land surrounding the RFF had value and could be converted for industrial or commercial use. He added that while Doral could bear some of the financial burden for relocating or rebuilding the RRF, the cost should be fair and equitable across the County. He also concurred that if the land was sold then the revenue should be designated for the DSWM.
Commissioner Bermudez also remarked that it was not possible to fund the development of the facility without incurring additional costs to residents.
Commissioner Regalado stated that a TIF should be in perpetuity and a percentage above the baseline of growth from the last 20 years. She added that a holistic financial option was needed for the DSWM to monetize the assets from the lands.
Commissioner Bermudez pointed out there would be a TIF if the RRF was relocated or if any DSWM property was sold.
There being no further comments or questions, the Committee forwarded the foregoing proposed resolution to the IITC, as presented.
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2E
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241676
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Resolution
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Oliver G. Gilbert, III
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RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING AND APPROVING THE SITE SELECTION FOR A NEW WASTE TO ENERGY FACILITY
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Presented
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REPORT:
See Agenda Item 2D, Legislative File No. 250141.
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9/17/2024
Deferred by the Board of County Commissioners
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9/17/2024
Reasonable opportunity for the public to be heard was provided. by the Board of County Commissioners
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11/6/2024
Deferred by the Board of County Commissioners
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12/3/2024
Deferred by the Board of County Commissioners
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2F
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241111
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Resolution
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Kionne L. McGhee
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RESOLUTION APPROVING AWARD OF PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT BETWEEN MIAMI-DADE COUNTY AND ARDURRA GROUP, INC., FOR PROFESSIONAL ENGINEERING SERVICES FOR THE DEPARTMENT OF SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT WASTE FACILITY COMPLEX, PROJECT NO. E22-DSWM-03, NOT TO EXCEED THE AMOUNT OF $15,000,000.00 INCLUSIVE OF CONTINGENCY AND DEDICATED ALLOWANCES FOR A TERM OF 1,825 CALENDAR DAYS; AND AUTHORIZING THE COUNTY MAYOR OR COUNTY MAYOR�S DESIGNEE TO EXECUTE THE AGREEMENT AND EXERCISE ALL PROVISIONS CONTAINED THEREIN, INCLUDING ANY CANCELLATION, RENEWAL, AND EXTENSION PROVISIONS(Solid Waste Management Department)
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Presented
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REPORT:
CA Bonzon-Keenan read the title of the foregoing proposed resolution into the record.
There being no comments or questions, the Committee forwarded the foregoing proposed resolution to the Board, as presented.
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7/9/2024
Forwarded to BCC with a favorable recommendation by the County Infrastructure, Operations and Innovations Committee
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9/4/2024
Deferred by the Board of County Commissioners
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10/16/2024
Deferred by the Board of County Commissioners
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2F SUPPLEMENT
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242267
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Supplement
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SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION ON RESOLUTION APPROVING AWARD OF PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT BETWEEN MIAMI-DADE COUNTY AND ARDURRA GROUP, INC., FOR PROFESSIONAL ENGINEERING SERVICES FOR THE DEPARTMENT OF SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT WASTE FACILITY COMPLEX, PROJECT NO. E22-DSWM-03, NOT TO EXCEED THE AMOUNT OF $15,000,000.00 INCLUSIVE OF CONTINGENCY AND DEDICATED ALLOWANCES FOR A TERM OF 1,825 CALENDAR DAYS; AND AUTHORIZING THE COUNTY MAYOR OR COUNTY MAYOR�S DESIGNEE TO EXECUTE THE AGREEMENT AND EXERCISE ALL PROVISIONS CONTAINED THEREIN, INCLUDING ANY CANCELLATION, RENEWAL, AND EXTENSION PROVISIONS
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Presented
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2G
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250144
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Resolution
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Raquel A. Regalado
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RESOLUTION DIRECTING THE COUNTY MAYOR OR COUNTY MAYOR�S DESIGNEE TO DEVELOP AND IMPLEMENT RECYCLING OF TIRES AND MATTRESSES THROUGHOUT MIAMI-DADE COUNTY, AND RECOMMEND CONFORMING CHANGES TO CHAPTER 15 OF THE CODE OF MIAMI-DADE COUNTY, FLORIDA; AND PROVIDE A REPORT
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Presented
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REPORT:
Commissioner Higgins moved to amend the foregoing proposed resolution to direct the County Mayor or County Mayor's designee to include in the required report the estimated quantities of tires and mattresses for all municipalities and projected costs per unit (i.e. tons/mattresses and tons/tires) by municipality, compared to existing costs.
CA Bonzon-Keenan read the title of the foregoing proposed resolution into the record.
Commissioner Regalado explained the intent of the proposed resolution, which requested the administration to implement the recycling of tires and mattresses in the County, was to discuss what was put into the County�s waste stream or the life cycle of waste from collecting, sorting, recycling and treatment.
After Commissioner Regalado recounted the County�s history of handling waste from tires and mattresses, she noted that the item asked the administration to provide information on how the vendor American Tire Recycling Group, LLC and Covanta Dade Renewable Energy, LLC processed the County�s waste stream for tires, and to solicit a recycling contract for mattresses. She also pointed out that a large amount of illegal dumping in the County was composed of tires and mattresses.
Commissioner Regalado accepted the amendment proffered by Commissioner Higgins but added that the amendment should include costs for adding tires and mattresses to the waste stream.
Chairman Rodriguez confirmed with CA Bonzon-Keenan that the amendments proffered in today�s meeting would be incorporated into the final legislation presented before the committees.
There being no further comments or questions, the Committee forwarded the foregoing proposed resolution to the IITC, as amended.
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2H
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250146
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Resolution
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Raquel A. Regalado
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RESOLUTION DIRECTING THE COUNTY MAYOR OR COUNTY MAYOR�S DESIGNEE TO DEVELOP A CLOSED LOOP RECYCLING PLAN FOR THE MIAMI-DADE AVIATION DEPARTMENT AND PORTMIAMI, AND PROVIDE A WRITTEN REPORT
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Presented
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REPORT:
Commissioner Higgins moved to amend the foregoing proposed resolution to direct the County Mayor or County Mayor's designee to include composting in the development of a closed-loop recycling plan, due to the Board requirement of plastic-free and compostable products.
CA Bonzon-Keenan read the title of the foregoing proposed resolution into the record.
Commissioner Regalado noted that she studied where zero waste policies functioned well and learned they did so in closed-loop systems such as the Walt Disney World Resort. She advised that the policy be applied for the Miami International Airport (MIA) and PortMiami. She commented that applying the policies would serve as models that would enable the County to receive grant funding.
Commissioner Regalado accepted Commissioner Higgins� proffered amendment because it would make composting easier in the County.
There being no further comments or questions, the Committee forwarded the foregoing proposed resolution to the IITC, as amended.
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2I
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250147
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Resolution
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Raquel A. Regalado
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RESOLUTION DIRECTING THE COUNTY MAYOR OR COUNTY MAYOR�S DESIGNEE TO EVALUATE LEGALLY VIABLE OPTIONS FOR METHANE GAS EXTRACTION FROM EXISTING MIAMI-DADE COUNTY LANDFILLS AND FUTURE LANDFILLS, AND PROVIDE A WRITTEN REPORT AND RECOMMENDATIONS TO THE BOARD WITHIN 90 DAYS
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Presented
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REPORT:
Commissioner Higgins moved to amend the foregoing proposed resolution to direct the County Mayor or County Mayor's designee to include in the required report an evaluation of other projects and facilities in the State of Florida, such as the Vero Beach Nopetro Eco District in Vero Beach or the New River Renewable Natural Gas (RNG) Project, including:
a) Permitting time and agencies;
b) Capital costs;
c) Operations/maintenance costs; and
d) Increased cost per ton to municipalities and the unincorporated municipal service area (UMSA), including a breakdown by County Commission District.
CA Bonzon-Keenan read the title of the foregoing proposed resolution into the record.
Commissioner Regalado opined that the County had to continue pilot programs for extracting methane gas from landfills. She noted that the extraction would allow for the possibility of expanding landfills, however, she stressed the increased capacity should not be used. She continued that if the Board voted to use the expanded capacity then it should be unanimously approved. Commissioner Regalado also commented that eventually landfills should be decommissioned and that a portfolio of solid waste options should be created to help with negotiations.
Commissioner Bermudez asked that the report include information about Medley Landfill�s process for extracting methane gas.
Commissioner Regalado stated she would amend the item to include the Medley Landfill and its methane extraction process.
There being no further comments or questions, the Committee forwarded the foregoing proposed resolution to the IITC, as amended.
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2J
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250148
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Resolution
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Raquel A. Regalado
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RESOLUTION DIRECTING THE COUNTY MAYOR OR COUNTY MAYOR�S DESIGNEE TO EXAMINE THE FEASIBILITY OF (1) EXPANDING THE CARDBOARD DISPOSAL AND/OR RECYCLING TO ALL 13 TRASH AND RECYCLING CENTERS YEAR-ROUND; AND (2) ESTABLISHING A SEASONAL CARDBOARD DISPOSAL PROGRAM, CONSISTING OF CREATING ADDITIONAL DROP-OFF SITES THROUGHOUT THE COMMUNITY, SUCH AS AT LIBRARIES, COMMUNITY CENTERS, AND OTHER COUNTY OR MUNICIPAL BUILDINGS, FOR THE PUBLIC TO DISPOSE OF AND/OR RECYCLE CARDBOARD MATERIALS; FURTHER DIRECTING THE COUNTY MAYOR OR COUNTY MAYOR�S DESIGNEE TO (1) SPECIFICALLY IDENTIFY ON THE COUNTY�S WEBSITE AND SOCIAL MEDIA OUTLETS THE TRASH AND RECYCLING CENTERS, AND ANY OTHER FUTURE SEASONAL LOCATIONS, THAT ACCEPT CARDBOARD MATERIALS; AND (2) TAKE ALL ACTIONS NECESSARY TO ENSURE THAT THE YEAR-ROUND AND SEASONAL DISPOSAL AND/OR RECYCLING OF CARDBOARD IS INCLUDED IN THE COUNTY�S ZERO WASTE MASTER PLAN; AND DIRECTING THE COUNTY MAYOR OR COUNTY MAYOR�S DESIGNEE TO PROVIDE A REPORT
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Presented
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REPORT:
Commissioner Higgins moved to amend Sections 2 and 4 of the resolving clause of the foregoing proposed resolution to require that the feasibility study and associated report outline the costs to implement and operate the additional cardboard disposal facilities at the Trash and Recycling Centers, as well as the seasonal locations.
CA Bonzon-Keenan read the title of the foregoing proposed resolution into the record.
Commissioner Regalado recommended that drop-off sites for cardboard should be established in the County to make it easier for residents to recycle cardboard. She commented that cardboard recycling would save money for the County and benefit municipalities.
Commissioner Regalado accepted Commissioner Higgins� amendment.
Commissioner Cohen Higgins questioned if the reports requested in today�s agenda were due before the Board made a decision on the County�s waste policy.
Commissioner Regalado replied that the schedules for submitting the reports varied though they would not be ready by the February 2025 Board meetings. She elaborated that these reports were an attempt to create a waste management portfolio and an ad hoc master plan.
After Commissioner Cohen Higgins repeated her question, Commissioner Regalado replied that the reports were tools that would make it easier for the Board to decide on policy.
Commissioner Bermudez noted that after a decision was made if new technologies and options became available then the Board should be able to reassess its policy decision and keep options open in order to amend the master plan.
Commissioner Gilbert III pointed that any decision would impose financial constraints that future Board members would have to address.
There being no further comments or questions, the Committee forwarded the foregoing proposed resolution to the IITC, as amended.
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2K
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250149
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Resolution
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Raquel A. Regalado
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RESOLUTION DIRECTING THE COUNTY MAYOR OR COUNTY MAYOR�S DESIGNEE TO EVALUATE LEGALLY VIABLE OPTIONS FOR THE PURCHASE OF SUITABLE SIZED LAND OUTSIDE OF MIAMI-DADE COUNTY NEAR A RAIL LINE TO USE FOR A LANDFILL AND/OR COMPOSTING, AND TO PROVIDE A WRITTEN REPORT TO THE BOARD WITHIN 90 DAYS
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Presented
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REPORT:
Commissioner Higgins moved to amend Section 3 of the resolving clause of the foregoing proposed resolution to require that the report also identify whether the properties identified in the report were located at or near the Florida East Coast Railway (FECR) corridor and/or any rail corridor owned or operated by FECR and/or Grupo Mexico, and if so, whether FECR had executed the necessary agreements, including an easement, for the Northeast Corridor commuter rail service, which was intended to operate along the FECR corridor.
CA Bonzon-Keenan read the title of the foregoing proposed resolution into the record.
Commissioner Regalado pointed out that there were major issues with the County�s geology that hindered composting and the item provided options for the County including other composting sites, and with negotiations.
Commissioner Higgins elaborated that her proposed amendment enabled the County to monitor negotiations to ensure that the rail service benefitted the County.
Commissioner Regalado accepted the proffered amendment.
There being no further comments or questions, the Committee forwarded the foregoing proposed resolution to the IITC, as amended.
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2L
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250150
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Resolution
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Raquel A. Regalado
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RESOLUTION DIRECTING THE COUNTY MAYOR OR COUNTY MAYOR�S DESIGNEE TO (1) EXPLORE THE FEASIBILITY OF UTILIZING MULTIPLE RAILROAD CORRIDORS, SUCH AS BUT NOT LIMITED TO THE CSX TRANSPORTATION AND FLORIDA EAST COAST RAILWAY (�FECR�) CORRIDORS, FOR THE TRANSPORTATION AND TRANSFER OF SOLID WASTE AND FREIGHT WITHIN AND OUTSIDE OF THE COUNTY; (2) IDENTIFY ANY VENDORS THAT UTILIZE FECR TO TRANSPORT TRASH AND/OR SLUDGE AND TO CONSIDER SUCH VENDORS AS PART OF THE FEASIBILITY STUDY; AND (3) PROVIDE A REPORT
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Presented
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REPORT:
Commissioner Higgins moved to amend Section 1 of the resolving clause of the foregoing proposed resolution to set County policy that no entity shall be awarded a contract for the disposal of waste on rail without the approval of the Board unless the Northeast Corridor commuter rail service agreements had been executed by all parties, including the FECR.
Commissioner Higgins further moved to amend Section 3 of the resolving clause to provide that the feasibility study referenced in Section 2, and the report referenced in Section 4, should also identify whether FECR and/or Grupo Mexico had executed the necessary easement(s) for the Northeast Corridor commuter rail service, which was intended to operate along the FECR corridor.
CA Geri Bonzon-Keenan read the title of the foregoing proposed resolution into the record.
Commissioner Regalado explained that the item provided an alternative option so that the County did not rely on a sole rail system. She also noted the benefits of using rail to transport the County�s waste.
Commissioner Regalado accepted the proffered amendment.
There being no further comments or questions, the Committee forwarded the foregoing proposed resolution to the IITC, as amended.
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2M
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250167
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Resolution
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Raquel A. Regalado
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RESOLUTION APPROVING A THIRD AMENDED AND RESTATED INTERLOCAL AGREEMENT BETWEEN MIAMI-DADE COUNTY AND CITY OF SOUTH MIAMI FOR USE OF THE COUNTY SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM; DIRECTING THE COUNTY MAYOR OR COUNTY MAYOR�S DESIGNEE TO NEGOTIATE AMENDMENTS TO INTERLOCAL AGREEMENTS WITH THE CITY OF SOUTH MIAMI AND OTHER CONTRACT CITIES FOR USE OF THE COUNTY SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM CONSISTENT WITH THIS APPROVAL, THE EFFECTIVENESS OF WHICH SHALL BE SUBJECT TO THIS BOARD�S FUTURE APPROVAL OF SAME AND ALSO SUBJECT TO THE PRIOR COMPLIANCE AND SATISFACTION OF THE SOLID WASTE BOND COVENANTS, APPROVAL OF A BOND ORDINANCE AMENDMENT AUTHORIZING SAME OR DEFEASANCE OF THE BONDS; AUTHORIZING THE COUNTY MAYOR OR COUNTY MAYOR�S DESIGNEE TO NEGOTIATE AN AGREEMENT WITH THE OWNER/DEVELOPER AND OPERATOR OF THE WASTE TO RAIL FACILITY FOR THE PROVISION OF MUNICIPAL SOLID WASTE SERVICES; AND DIRECTING THE COUNTY MAYOR OR COUNTY MAYOR�S DESIGNEE TO RECOMMEND CONFORMING CHANGES TO CHAPTER 15 OF THE CODE OF MIAMI-DADE COUNTY, FLORIDA (ALLOWING FOR THE CONSTRUCTION AND OPERATION OF A PRIVATE WASTE TO RAIL FACILITY IN MIAMI-DADE COUNTY) FOR THIS BOARD�S FUTURE CONSIDERATION
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Presented
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REPORT:
CA Bonzon-Keenan read the title of the foregoing proposed resolution into the record.
Commissioner Regalado acknowledged the efforts of the City of South Miami (South Miami) to alleviate the solid waste disposal situation in the County. She pointed out that the city had a viable solution and that the administration had contradictory positions about the amount of waste in the County, which had to be resolved.
City of South Miami Mayor Javier Fernandez spoke in support of the item.
Commissioners Regalado and Bermudez expressed their support for the item�s interlocal agreement between the County and South Miami. They also expressed gratitude to Mayor Fernandez for his collaboration with the County to address solid waste disposal.
There being no further comments or questions, the Committee forwarded the foregoing proposed resolution to the Board, as presented.
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2N
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250172
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Resolution
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Raquel A. Regalado
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RESOLUTION DIRECTING THE COUNTY MAYOR OR COUNTY MAYOR�S DESIGNEE TO REVIEW THE SOLID WASTE BOND ORDINANCE AND PROVIDE RECOMMENDATIONS TO RESTRUCTURE OR REFORMULATE SUCH ORDINANCE, INCLUDING DEFEASANCE OF ANY OUTSTANDING BONDS; AUTHORIZING THE COUNTY MAYOR OR COUNTY MAYOR�S DESIGNEE TO DO ALL THINGS NECESSARY TO ACCOMPLISH SUCH PURPOSE; AND PROVIDE A REPORT
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Presented
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REPORT:
CA Bonzon-Keenan read the title of the foregoing proposed resolution into the record.
Commissioner Regalado emphasized the importance of reviewing restructuring options for Ordinance 96-168, a solid waste bond ordinance, as the County considered other revenue streams. She added that the restructuring would improve the County�s bond rating.
There being no further comments or questions, the Committee forwarded the foregoing proposed resolution to the Board as presented.
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2O
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250174
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Resolution
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Raquel A. Regalado
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RESOLUTION DIRECTING THE COUNTY MAYOR OR COUNTY MAYOR�S DESIGNEE TO REQUEST AND RECEIVE CERTAIN INFORMATION FROM THE DESIGN CRITERIA PROFESSIONAL UNDER CONTRACT NO. 18482-DSWM22-DCP, SPD PROJECT NO. E22-DSWM-02, AND PREPARE AND PROVIDE A REPORT
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Presented
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REPORT:
CA Geri Bonzon-Keenan read the title of the foregoing proposed resolution into the record.
Commissioner Regalado explained that the item directed the County Mayor to gather information from the vendor Atkins North America, Inc. about design criteria services for a new WTE facility. She added that the vendor should provide alternative financial and procurement options for the WTE facility, including a P3.
There being no further comments or questions, the Committee forwarded the foregoing proposed resolution to the Board, as presented.
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19
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ADJOURNMENT
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REPORT:
Chairman Rodriguez reminded the Committee that the items discussed on today�s agenda would be forwarded to committees then to the Board for consideration.
There being no further business to come before the Committee of the Whole, the meeting adjourned at 1:02 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: 5213 |