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1
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MINUTES PREPARED BY:
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REPORT:
Tomeka Law, Commission Reporter (305) 375-3864
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1A
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INVOCATION AS PROVIDED IN RULE 5.05 (H)
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REPORT:
The Prayer was led by Commissioner Gonzalez.
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1B
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ROLL CALL
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REPORT:
Chairwoman Cohen Higgins convened the Appropriations Committee (APC) meeting at 11:05 a.m..
In addition to the Committee members, the following staff members were also present:
~ Miami-Dade County Chief Operations Officer Jimmy Morales, Office of the Mayor;
~ Roy Coley, Chief of Utilities & Regulatory Services Officer, Office of the Mayor;
~ Assistant County Attorneys Michael Valdes, Michael Mastrucci, and Sarah Davis; and
~ Deputy Clerks Zorana Milton and Tomeka Law, Clerk of the Board.
Commissioner Regalado was also present at the meeting.
MOTION TO SET THE AGENDA
Assistant County Attorney Michael Mastrucci advised the items to be considered at today�s (2/12) APC meeting would be those listed in the final printed agenda, along with the addition of Agenda Item 2C, and a scrivener's error correction to Agenda Item 3I as outlined in the Changes memorandum dated February 12, 2025.
Commissioner Steinberg moved to approve today�s (2/12) APC agenda with the aforementioned changes. This motion was seconded by Commissioner Gonzalez, and upon being put to a vote, passed 4-0. (Commissioner Gilbert III was absent).
Commissioner Gonzalez requested Agenda Items 2A and 3J be added to the �Pull List�.
Chairwoman Cohen Higgins requested Agenda Items 3A, 3B, 3C, 3D, 3E, 3F, 3J and 3K be added to the �Pull List�.
Commissioner Steinberg moved to consider Agenda Items 2C, 3G, 3H and 3I simultaneously. This motion was seconded by Commissioner Gonzalez and upon being put to a vote, passed 4-0. (Commissioner Gilbert III was absent).
Note: Agenda Items 2C, 3G, 3H and 3I were forwarded to the Board of County Commissioners (BCC) with a favorable recommendation.
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1C
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PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
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REPORT:
The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Commissioner Steinberg.
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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:
Chairwoman Cohen Higgins opened the reasonable opportunity for the public to be heard, and seeing no one come forward to speak, closed the reasonable opportunity to be heard.
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1E
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SPECIAL PRESENTATION(S)
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1F
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DISCUSSION ITEM(S)
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1G
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PUBLIC HEARING(S)
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2
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COUNTY COMMISSION
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2A
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231646
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Resolution
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Roberto J. Gonzalez
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RESOLUTION DIRECTING AN INDEPENDENT EXTERNAL AUDIT OF THE MIAMI-DADE COUNTY PAYROLL SYSTEM; DIRECTING AND AUTHORIZING THE COUNTY MAYOR OR COUNTY MAYOR�S DESIGNEE TO IMMEDIATELY RETAIN AND CONTRACT WITH AN INDEPENDENT EXTERNAL AUDITOR; DIRECTING THE COUNTY MAYOR OR COUNTY MAYOR�S DESIGNEE TO PROVIDE A REPORT TO THE BOARD WITHIN 30 DAYS DISCLOSING DETAILS OF EXTERNAL AUDIT CONTRACT; AND DIRECTING THE COUNTY MAYOR OR COUNTY MAYOR�S DESIGNEE TO PROVIDE A REPORT TO THE BOARD WITH FINDINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS UPON COMPLETION OF AUDIT AND TO PROVIDE REQUIRED COPIES TO THE CLERK OF THE COURT
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Deferred
to
April 9, 2025
Mover: Roberto J. Gonzalez
Seconder: Danielle Cohen Higgins
Vote: 4 - 0
Absent: Gilbert, III
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REPORT:
Commissioner Gonzalez presented a comprehensive overview of the County's payroll system deficiencies, detailing costly operational failures that had resulted in millions of dollars in losses and created financial hardship for County employees. He illustrated the severity of these issues by referencing a case where an employee had been systematically overpaid $5 per pay period over a decade, ultimately requiring repayment of approximately $50,000 through salary deductions.
Commissioner Gonzalez noted that he had initiated an audit request two (2) years ago but the matter had remained unaddressed on committee agendas until today�s (2/12) meeting. He stated that since his original request he had collaborated extensively with the Comptroller's office, which had conducted its own audits. Commissioner Gonzalez advised that the auditing process required significant resources, with teams from the administration and Commission Auditor's performing the work.
Commissioner Gonzalez requested the foregoing proposed resolution be deferred to the April Committee meeting to provide adequate time for all involved to present their complete audit findings.
Hearing no further questions or comments, the foregoing proposed resolution was deferred to the April 9, 2025 APC meeting.
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2B
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250219
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Resolution
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Raquel A. Regalado
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RESOLUTION APPROVING A SUB-GRANT TO FAIRCHILD TROPICAL BOTANIC GARDEN, INC. (�FAIRCHILD�), A FLORIDA NONPROFIT CORPORATION, IN AMOUNT OF $12,500,000.00 FUNDED BY A GRANT FROM THE FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION (�FDEP�) AND A GRANT OF $12,500,000.00 FUNDED BY THE COUNTYWIDE INFRASTRUCTURE INVESTMENT PROGRAM FUNDS TO SERVE AS MATCHING FUNDS FOR THE FDEP GRANT FOR A TOTAL OF $25,000,000.00 TO BE USED TO MAKE IMPROVEMENTS TO COUNTY-OWNED LAND LEASED TO FAIRCHILD (�PROJECT�); AUTHORIZING THE COUNTY MAYOR OR MAYOR�S DESIGNEE TO NEGOTIATE SUB-GRANT AND GRANT AGREEMENTS WITH FAIRCHILD FOR THE PROJECT, TO EXECUTE SAME AND EXERCISE ALL PROVISIONS CONTAINED THEREIN
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Forwarded to the BCC by the BCC Chairperson with a favorable recommendation
Mover: Danielle Cohen Higgins
Seconder: Roberto J. Gonzalez
Vote: 4 - 0
Absent: Gilbert, III
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REPORT:
Chairwoman Cohen Higgins acknowledged Commissioner Regalado�s attendance to answer any questions regarding the foregoing proposed resolution.
Commissioner Regalado stated that the item addressed a subgrant received from the State of Florida for Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden.
Hearing no further discussion, the Committee proceeded to vote on the foregoing proposed resolution, as presented.
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2C
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250231
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Resolution
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Kevin Marino Cabrera
Sen. Rene Garcia
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RESOLUTION DIRECTING THE COUNTY MAYOR OR COUNTY MAYOR�S DESIGNEE TO WORK WITH AMERICA�S HEROES GOLF PROGRAM TO EXPAND ELIGIBILITY TO ALL COMBAT VETERANS
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Forwarded to BCC with a favorable recommendation
Mover: Micky Steinberg
Seconder: Roberto J. Gonzalez
Vote: 4 - 0
Absent: Gilbert, III
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3
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DEPARTMENT(S)
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3A
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250072
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Resolution
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Marleine Bastien
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RESOLUTION RATIFYING THE COUNTY MAYOR�S OR COUNTY MAYOR�S DESIGNEE�S RECEIPT OF A $5,000,000.00 GRANT FROM THE BEZOS DAY 1 FAMILIES FUND AND EXECUTION OF THE AGREEMENT TO ADVISE A GRANT; AUTHORIZING THE COUNTY MAYOR OR COUNTY MAYOR�S DESIGNEE TO EXPEND THE $5,000,000.00 AND ENTER INTO SUB-GRANT AGREEMENTS WITH NONPROFIT PROVIDERS TO HOUSE AND SERVE FAMILIES EXPERIENCING HOMELESSNESS; AUTHORIZING THE COUNTY MAYOR OR COUNTY MAYOR�S DESIGNEE TO EXERCISE ALL PROVISIONS OF SUCH AGREEMENTS AND DOCUMENTS, INCLUDING AMENDMENT, MODIFICATION, RENEWAL AND TERMINATION CLAUSES CONTAINED THEREIN; AND WAIVING THE REQUIREMENTS OF RESOLUTION NO. R-130-06
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Forwarded to BCC with a favorable recommendation
Mover: Roberto J. Gonzalez
Seconder: Kevin Marino Cabrera
Vote: 3 - 0
Absent: Gilbert, III , Steinberg
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REPORT:
Chairwoman Cohen Higgins inquired about the distribution of the grant money.
Ms. Victoria Mallette, Executive Director of Miami-Dade County Homeless Trust, provided the allocation breakdown: $3 million for rapid rehousing services (short to medium-term rental assistance with supportive services for families with minor children experiencing homelessness); $1.5 million for property acquisition and renovation (specific property not yet identified, with plans to leverage additional state, federal, and private funding); and $500,000 for crisis housing (primarily hotel/motel accommodations when family shelter capacity is exceeded).
Chairwoman Cohen Higgins asked why the item included a waiver of Resolution R-130-06 requirements.
Ms. Mallette explained the waiver would expedite funding for 280 families with minor children currently experiencing homelessness in shelters. She noted The Homeless Trust Board had voted on January 31st to allocate the $3 million to Chapman Partnership, which had successfully administered similar grants including City of Miami Emergency Solutions grants, Challenge grants, and Bezos grants.
Hearing no further discussion, the Committee proceeded to vote on the foregoing proposed resolution, as presented.
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2/11/2025
Forwarded to BCC with a favorable recommendation by the Housing Committee
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3B
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250080
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Resolution
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Marleine Bastien
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RESOLUTION APPROVING A CONTRACT FOR SALE AND PURCHASE BETWEEN 79 NORTHSIDE TOWN STATION, LLC, A FLORIDA LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY, AS SELLER, AND MIAMI-DADE COUNTY, AS BUYER, OF APPROXIMATELY 102,463 SQUARE FEET OF COMBINED COMMERCIAL PARCELS OF LAND FOR PUBLIC PARK PURPOSES, COMPRISED OF FIVE SEPARATE REAL PROPERTIES LYING WITHIN THE NORTH CENTRAL URBAN AREA DISTRICT, AND LOCATED AT 2972 NW 79 STREET, 2950 NW 79 STREET, AND 2900 NW 79 STREET, MIAMI, FLORIDA, IN THE AMOUNT OF $4,250,000.00 AND AUTHORIZING THE EXPENDITURE OF UP TO $20,000.00 FOR CLOSING COSTS, TO BE FUNDED WITH OPEN SPACE IMPACT FEES; AUTHORIZING THE COUNTY MAYOR OR COUNTY MAYOR�S DESIGNEE TO EXECUTE THE CONTRACT FOR SALE AND PURCHASE, EXERCISE ANY AND ALL RIGHTS CONFERRED THEREIN, TAKE ALL OTHER ACTIONS NECESSARY TO EFFECTUATE SAID PURCHASE AND ACCEPT CONVEYANCE OF PROPERTY BY SPECIAL WARRANTY DEED; AND DIRECTING THE COUNTY MAYOR OR COUNTY MAYOR�S DESIGNEE TO RECORD SUCH DEED
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Forwarded to the BCC by the BCC Chairperson with a favorable recommendation
Mover: Micky Steinberg
Seconder: Kevin Marino Cabrera
Vote: 4 - 0
Absent: Gilbert, III
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REPORT:
Chairwoman Cohen Higgins commended the Parks Department for identifying land acquisition opportunities for permanent greenspace preservation in Commissioner Bastien's district. She inquired about financing for acquisition, construction, and ongoing maintenance, noting frequent Parks Department funding limitations for improvement projects.
Ms. Maria Nardi, the Director of Parks, Recreation and Open Spaces Department, explained that the $4.2 million acquisition would be funded through open space park impact fees paid by developers in lieu of land dedication. She advised that developers also contributed to park impact fee improvement funds, providing resources for future enhancements. Ms. Nardi reported approximately $1.5 million was available for improvements, which would be implemented in phases based on community input.
Regarding maintenance and operations, Ms. Nardi characterized the acquisition as a significant community investment supporting level of service requirements. She emphasized the department's commitment to developing acquired property and pursuing operational efficiencies to reduce personnel costs while maintaining service standards.
Hearing no further discussion, the Committee proceeded to vote on the foregoing proposed resolution, as presented.
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2/10/2025
Forwarded to BCC with a favorable recommendation by the Recreation and Tourism Committee
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3C
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242290
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Resolution
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Marleine Bastien
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RESOLUTION APPROVING THE FISCAL YEAR 2024-2025 BUDGET IN THE TOTAL AMOUNT OF $7,351,548.00 FOR THE N.W. 7TH AVENUE CORRIDOR COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY AND THE N.W. 7TH AVENUE CORRIDOR COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AREA
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Forwarded to BCC with a favorable recommendation
Mover: Danielle Cohen Higgins
Seconder: Kevin Marino Cabrera
Vote: 4 - 0
Absent: Gilbert, III
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REPORT:
Chairwoman Cohen Higgins expressed support for the foregoing CRA budget items as well as Agenda Item 3D but inquired about executive director positions given recent CRA discussions. She asked whether the N.W. 7th Avenue Corridor CRA had an executive director and about the selection process for such positions.
Ms. Vivian Cao, Assistant Director for Office of Management and Budget, advised that the N.W. 7th Avenue Corridor CRA lacked an executive director and explained that the position had been posted on the Florida Redevelopment Association website using a standardized process applied to all CRA executive director positions, including West Perrine.
Hearing no further discussion, the Committee proceeded to vote on the foregoing proposed resolution along with Agenda Item 3D, as presented.
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3D
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242292
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Resolution
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Keon Hardemon
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RESOLUTION APPROVING THE FISCAL YEAR 2024-25 BUDGET IN THE TOTAL AMOUNT OF $18,838,550.00 FOR THE MIDTOWN COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY AND THE MIDTOWN COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AREA
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Forwarded to BCC with a favorable recommendation
Mover: Danielle Cohen Higgins
Seconder: Kevin Marino Cabrera
Vote: 4 - 0
Absent: Gilbert, III
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REPORT:
Chairwoman Cohen Higgins inquired about the lack of an Executive Director for the Midtown CRA, noting that it existed solely for parking garage construction without dedicated staff.
Ms. Vivian Cao, Assistant Director for Office of Management and Budget, confirmed the absence of an Executive Director and noted that staff from another CRA within the City of Miami provided part-time services to the CRA.
Hearing no further discussion, the Committee proceeded to vote on the foregoing proposed resolution along with Agenda Item 3C, as presented.
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3E
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250068
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Resolution
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Oliver G. Gilbert, III
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RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING APPROVAL TO EXERCISE THE ONE, THREE-YEAR OPTION TO RENEW TERM AND ADDITIONAL EXPENDITURE AUTHORITY IN AN AMOUNT UP TO $24,646,310.00 FOR A TOTAL MODIFIED CUMULATIVE CONTRACT AMOUNT OF $37,363,510.00 FOR CONTRACT NO. 43210000-23-NASPO-ACS FOR COMPUTER EQUIPMENT, PERIPHERALS, AND RELATED SERVICES FOR THE INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY DEPARTMENT ON BEHALF OF MULTIPLE COUNTY DEPARTMENTS; AND AUTHORIZING THE COUNTY MAYOR OR COUNTY MAYOR�S DESIGNEE TO EXERCISE ALL PROVISIONS OF THE CONTRACT, INCLUDING ANY CANCELLATION, RENEWAL OR EXTENSIONS, PURSUANT TO SECTION 2-8.1 OF THE COUNTY CODE AND IMPLEMENTING ORDER 3-38 AND ADD OTHER AWARDEES AS THEY ARE APPROVED AND ADDED VIA THE STATE OF FLORIDA PARTICIPATING ADDENDA AND PROVIDE THE COUNTY THE REQUIRED DOCUMENTS AND/OR VERIFICATION OF INFORMATION
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Forwarded to BCC with a favorable recommendation
Mover: Danielle Cohen Higgins
Seconder: Roberto J. Gonzalez
Vote: 3 - 1
No: Steinberg
Absent: Gilbert, III
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REPORT:
Chairwoman Cohen Higgins requested the administration provide a detailed breakdown for the allocation requested for computer equipment.
Ms. Margaret Brisbane, Director of Information Technology Department, confirmed that the detailed breakdown of the expenditures related to the Option to Renew contract for each County department had been completed and would be provided to the committee as requested.
Chairwoman Cohen Higgins requested the breakdown be included as a supplement to the item for Board submission.
Hearing no further discussion, the Committee proceeded to vote on the foregoing proposed resolution, as presented.
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3F
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250099
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Resolution
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Strategic Procurement |
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RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING APPROVAL OF ADDITIONAL TIME OF FIVE YEARS AND EXPENDITURE AUTHORITY UP TO $12,725,000.00 FOR A TOTAL MODIFIED CUMULATIVE POOL AMOUNT OF $36,025,000.00 FOR PREQUALIFICATION POOL NO. RTQ-01264 FOR THE PURCHASE OF MANUFACTURER�S CERTIFIED DEALER OEM PARTS AND REPAIR SERVICES FOR MULTIPLE COUNTY DEPARTMENTS; PROVIDED THAT ANY CONTRACT AWARD UNDER THE POOL EXCEEDING $5,000,000.00, OR $1,5000,000.00 FOR MIAMI-DADE AVIATION DEPARTMENT, IS RATIFIED BY THE BOARD
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Forwarded to BCC with a favorable recommendation
Mover: Danielle Cohen Higgins
Seconder: Kevin Marino Cabrera
Vote: 3 - 1
No: Steinberg
Absent: Gilbert, III
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REPORT:
Chairwoman Cohen Higgins requested a detailed allocation analysis similar to the previous item (Agenda Item 3E) be submitted as a supplement to the item for Board consideration.
Hearing no further discussion, the Committee proceeded to vote on the foregoing proposed resolution, as presented.
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3G
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250121
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Resolution
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Strategic Procurement |
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RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING ACCESS OF CONTRACT NO. 091422-WWG, FACILITY MRO, INDUSTRIAL, BUILDING-RELATED SUPPLIES, AND EQUIPMENT, WITH W.W. GRAINGER, INC., IN A TOTAL AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $15,745,771.00 FOR THE REMAINING INITIAL TERM EXPIRING ON NOVEMBER 8, 2026 AND TWO, ONE-YEAR EXTENSIONS FOR MULTIPLE COUNTY DEPARTMENTS; AND AUTHORIZING THE COUNTY MAYOR OR COUNTY MAYOR�S DESIGNEE TO (A) EXERCISE ALL PROVISIONS OF THE CONTRACT, INCLUDING ANY CANCELLATION OR EXTENSIONS, PURSUANT TO SECTION 2-8.1 OF THE CODE OF MIAMI-DADE COUNTY, FLORIDA AND IMPLEMENTING ORDER 3-38; (B) ADD OTHER AWARDEES AS THEY ARE APPROVED AND AWARDED A CONTRACT BY W.W. GRAINGER, INC. AND PROVIDE THE COUNTY THE REQUIRED DOCUMENTS AND/OR VERIFICATION OF INFORMATION; AND (C) REMOVE VENDORS FROM THE CONTRACT AT ANY TIME IF THEY ARE NO LONGER AUTHORIZED RESELLERS OR A CERTIFIED SMALL BUSINESS ENTERPRISE FIRM
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Forwarded to BCC with a favorable recommendation
Mover: Micky Steinberg
Seconder: Roberto J. Gonzalez
Vote: 4 - 0
Absent: Gilbert, III
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3H
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241980
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Resolution
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Oliver G. Gilbert, III
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RESOLUTION APPROVING AND AUTHORIZING THE COUNTY MAYOR OR COUNTY MAYOR�S DESIGNEE TO EXECUTE THE PERFORMANCE GUARANTY AGREEMENT AND UNDERGROUND DISTRIBUTION FACILITIES INSTALLATION AGREEMENT WITH FLORIDA POWER AND LIGHT COMPANY (''FPL''), AND TO SECURE THE LETTER OF CREDIT (COLLECTIVELY THE ''AGREEMENTS''); AUTHORIZING THE EXPENDITURE OF UP TO $5,229,829.81 AS CONTEMPLATED BY SUCH AGREEMENTS TO INSTALL, OPERATE, AND MAINTAIN ELECTRICAL POWER FACILITIES FOR THE PURPOSE OF PROVIDING ELECTRICAL SERVICE TO THE SOUTH DADE TRANSIT OPERATIONS CENTER LOCATED AT OR NEAR 12805 BISCAYNE DRIVE, HOMESTEAD, FLORIDA; AND FURTHER AUTHORIZING THE COUNTY MAYOR OR COUNTY MAYOR�S DESIGNEE TO EXERCISE ALL PROVISIONS CONTAINED IN THE AGREEMENTS, INCLUDING ANY RIGHTS OF TERMINATION, AND TAKE ALL ACTIONS TO EFFECTUATE THE SAME
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Forwarded to BCC with a favorable recommendation
Mover: Micky Steinberg
Seconder: Roberto J. Gonzalez
Vote: 4 - 0
Absent: Gilbert, III
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2/11/2025
Forwarded to BCC with a favorable recommendation by the Transportation Cmte
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3I
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250042
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Resolution
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Transportation and Public Works |
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RESOLUTION APPROVING THE AWARD OF THE CONTRACT FOR THE PROJECT TITLED METRORAIL PUBLIC ADDRESS SYSTEM REPLACEMENT � REQUEST FOR PRICE QUOTATION RPQ NO. TP-0000008807 � BETWEEN MIAMI-DADE COUNTY AND CANSECO ELECTRICAL CONTRACTORS, INC., IN THE AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $5,593,005.77, INCLUSIVE OF A CONTINGENCY ALLOWANCE OF $499,800.00; AUTHORIZING THE COUNTY MAYOR OR COUNTY MAYOR�S DESIGNEE TO EXECUTE SAME AND EXERCISE THE PROVISIONS CONTAINED THEREIN; AND AUTHORIZING THE USE OF PEOPLE�S TRANSPORTATION PLAN BOND PROGRAM FUNDS OF UP TO $5,593,005.77 OR OTHER AMOUNT SET FORTH IN THE PEOPLE�S TRANSPORTATION PLAN FIVE-YEAR IMPLEMENTATION PLAN FOR THIS PROJECT WHICH WAS ADDED IN JULY 2011
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Forwarded to BCC with a favorable recommendation as corrected
Mover: Micky Steinberg
Seconder: Roberto J. Gonzalez
Vote: 4 - 0
Absent: Gilbert, III
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REPORT:
The foregoing proposed ordinance contained a scrivener's error and was corrected as follows:
On page MDC008, the last amount should read, $5,593,005.77 instead of $2,592,000.00, in the title and body of the resolution.
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2/11/2025
Forwarded to BCC with a favorable recommendation as corrected by the Transportation Cmte
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3J
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242144
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Resolution
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Water & Sewer Department |
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RESOLUTION APPROVING EXTENSION OF A NON-COMPETITIVE LEGACY CONTRACT BETWEEN MIAMI-DADE COUNTY AND ACI PAYMENTS, INC. FOR ELECTRONIC PAYMENT PROCESSING SERVICES, THROUGH EXECUTION OF THE FIFTH AMENDMENT TO THE MASTER SERVICES AGREEMENT, WHICH AMENDMENT EXTENDS THE MASTER SERVICES AGREEMENT FOR AN ADDITIONAL YEAR, PROVIDES FOR TWO ONE-YEAR OPTIONS TO RENEW, AND ALLOWS ACI PAYMENTS, INC. TO INCREASE THE CARD SERVICES CONVENIENCE FEE; AND AUTHORIZING THE COUNTY MAYOR OR COUNTY MAYOR�S DESIGNEE TO EXECUTE THE FIFTH AMENDMENT AND TO EXERCISE ANY AND ALL PROVISIONS CONTAINED THEREIN, INCLUDING THE OPTIONS TO RENEW, PURSUANT TO SECTION 2-8.1 OF THE CODE OF MIAMI-DADE COUNTY, FLORIDA AND IMPLEMENTING ORDER 3-38
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Amended
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1/13/2025
Forwarded to BCC with a favorable recommendation by the Infrastructure, Innovation & Technology Committee
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1/15/2025
Deferred by the Appropriations Committee
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3J Amended
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250400
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Resolution
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Water & Sewer Department |
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RESOLUTION APPROVING EXTENSION OF A NON-COMPETITIVE LEGACY CONTRACT BETWEEN MIAMI-DADE COUNTY AND ACI PAYMENTS, INC. FOR ELECTRONIC PAYMENT PROCESSING SERVICES, THROUGH EXECUTION OF THE FIFTH AMENDMENT TO THE MASTER SERVICES AGREEMENT, WHICH AMENDMENT EXTENDS THE MASTER SERVICES AGREEMENT FOR AN ADDITIONAL YEAR AND PROVIDES FOR TWO ONE-YEAR OPTIONS TO RENEW; AND AUTHORIZING THE COUNTY MAYOR OR COUNTY MAYOR�S DESIGNEE TO EXECUTE THE FIFTH AMENDMENT AND TO EXERCISE ANY AND ALL PROVISIONS CONTAINED THEREIN, INCLUDING THE OPTIONS TO RENEW, PURSUANT TO SECTION 2-8.1 OF THE CODE OF MIAMI-DADE COUNTY, FLORIDA AND IMPLEMENTING ORDER 3-38 [SEE ORIGINAL ITEM UNDER FILE NO. 242144]
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Forwarded to BCC with a favorable recommendation with committee amendment(s)
Mover: Micky Steinberg
Seconder: Danielle Cohen Higgins
Vote: 4 - 0
Absent: Gilbert, III
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REPORT:
Commissioner Gonzalez stated his intention to vote �no� because the proposed legislation imposed additional fees on taxpayers and represented a retroactive request.
Chairwoman Cohen Higgins raised concerns about the rate increase and continuation of services by ACI Payments, Inc. under an expired contract. She read ACI's email explanation into the record, noting their absence due to an annual employee meeting and their justification for raising rates from $3.95 to $4.49.
Ms. Frances Morris, Chief Financial Officer, Miami-Dade Water and Sewer (WASD), reported that ACI had presented alternative options: maintaining the $3.95 rate for residential customers while implementing percentage-based fees for non-residential customers, which could result in significantly higher fees for non-residential customers.
Mr. Roy Coley, Chief of Utilities & Regulatory Services Officer, informed the Committee members that without rate approval, ACI would discontinue online credit card payment options for water and sewer customers.
Commissioner Steinberg expressed frustration about the expired contract situation but supported the item to maintain online payment options for residents. She moved the item, which Chairwoman Cohen Higgins seconded for discussion.
Hearing no further discussion, the Committee proceeded to vote on the foregoing proposed resolution, as presented which resulted in a failed vote of 1-2 (Chairwoman Cohen Higgins and Commissioner Gonzalez voted �no�, Commissioner Cabrera was absent)
Following the failed vote, Commissioner Regalado inquired as to the number of residents impacted by the discontinued credit card payment option.
Ms. Morris indicated that approximately 100,000 WASD customers utilized the online payment option each billing cycle.
Commissioner Gonzalez questioned whether the administration had developed alternative plans and sought clarification regarding payment method restrictions, noting that customers with credit cards typically maintain bank accounts.
Ms. Morris explained that while online credit card payments would be eliminated, customers could continue paying online using ACH (bank routing information) and other methods without convenience fees, confirming that ACH payments would remain available.
Commissioner Gonzalez recommended immediate customer notification regarding ACH payment alternatives.
Chairwoman Cohen Higgins acknowledged her colleagues� concerns and discussed procurement reforms, explaining that the Board had passed a resolution in July 2023 requiring departments to begin procurement processes two (2) years before contracts expired to avoid situations like the ACI contract. However, she noted that this rule did not cover Water and Sewer or other departments that handled their own procurement processes. Chairwoman Cohen Higgins indicated her commitment to working to extend this two-year requirement to these departments to prevent future expired contract situations.
Chairwoman Cohen Higgins directed Mr. Coley, to provide a report detailing the level of service provided by ACI as a result of the committee�s decision to not extend the contract and not impose additional fees at the April 20, 2025 committee meeting.
Later in the meeting, Chief Operations Officer Jimmy Morales requested reconsideration of the ACI item to maintain contract extension without fee increases, explaining that ACI services were required for all payment processing, including ACH increase.
ACA Michael Valdes explained that procedural rules prohibited reconsideration of failed items that had been tabled and further clarified that an application for renewal requiring two-thirds committee approval would be necessary.
Chairwoman Cohen Higgins clarified that the administration was requesting reconsideration of the previously failed ACI contract to allow contract extension with removal of the fee increase. COO Morales explained that ACI served as the payment processor for all online payments, including ACH, making their services necessary regardless of the fee increase issue.
Commissioner Steinberg moved for renewal to remove fee increases while maintaining contract extension. Chairwoman Cohen Higgins seconded the motion.
Commissioner Gonzalez inquired about extension timeframes, expressing concern about concurrent vendor relationships.
Ms. Morris explained the extension would span one (1) year, allowing implementation of a cloud-based billing system scheduled for May 2025, followed by RFP issuance through Strategic Procurement.
Commissioner Steinberg inquired about alternative payment arrangements for customers lacking immediate checking account funds.
Ms. Morris explained that customers could request three-week payment extensions or installment arrangements for past-due amounts, though current bills must be paid in full under payment arrangement terms.
Mr. Morales requested clarification regarding extension duration, asking whether it would be one (1) year from the expiration date or one (1) year from the current date, noting that an extension only through September 2025 would provide insufficient implementation time. ACA Sarah Davis clarified that the ACI contract had expired in September 2024, with ACI continuing to provide services until the matter was considered by the Board. She further clarified that the contract included a one-year extension with two (2) additional one-year renewal options that would not require Board approval.
Following discussions, the renewal motion passed by a vote of 4-0 (Commissioner Gilbert III was absent).
Hearing no further discussion, the Committee proceeded to vote on the foregoing resolution, as amended to remove the proposed fee increase.
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3K
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250087
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Resolution
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Water & Sewer Department |
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RESOLUTION AWARDING CONTRACT NO. S-16030R, UPDATES TO PUMP STATION 300, TO POOLE & KENT COMPANY OF FLORIDA FOR A TOTAL CONTRACT AMOUNT OF $48,600,460.00 AND A CONTRACT TERM OF 800 CALENDAR DAYS; AUTHORIZING THE COUNTY MAYOR OR COUNTY MAYOR�S DESIGNEE TO UTILIZE THE MIAMI-DADE WATER AND SEWER DEPARTMENT�S CONSENT DECREE AND CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAMS ACCELERATION ORDINANCE, SECTION 2-8.2.12 OF THE CODE OF MIAMI-DADE COUNTY, FLORIDA, TO MANAGE CONTRACT NO. S-16030R; AND AUTHORIZING THE COUNTY MAYOR OR COUNTY MAYOR�S DESIGNEE TO EXECUTE THE SAME AND TO EXERCISE THE TERMINATION AND OTHER PROVISIONS CONTAINED THEREIN
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Forwarded to BCC with a favorable recommendation
Mover: Micky Steinberg
Seconder: Roberto J. Gonzalez
Vote: 4 - 0
Absent: Gilbert, III
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REPORT:
Chairwoman Cohen Higgins expressed concern regarding the $48 million contract that received only one (1) bid, which exceeded the engineer of record's estimate by 72%. She noted potential risks associated with limited competition and possible change order implications.
Ms. Amanda Kinnick, Interim Director of Water and Sewer, explained that the contract was related to Pump Station 300, a large facility that serviced a significant portion of the northwest and west areas of the County. She noted the pump station had experienced a catastrophic failure several years ago, prompting the department to conduct a full evaluation that determined this reconstruction work was necessary. Ms. Kinnick noted that because this was a large industrial facility that needed to maintain operations during construction, it required a complex bypass system with high associated risks, which contributed to the price difference from the original estimate. She also reported that the contractor market for this type of specialized pump station work was saturated with limited competition, unlike the competitiveness seen in smaller construction projects.
Chairwoman Cohen Higgins presented research documenting the engineer of record's estimation patterns:
� August 2023: $13 million estimate, $35 million lowest bid (162% variance)
� December 2023: $32 million estimate, $80 million lowest bid (148% variance)
� November 2024: $30 million estimate, $48 million lowest bid (58% variance)
She emphasized the need for improved collaboration with engineering consultants to provide accurate project valuations to enable informed business community participation.
Commissioner Steinberg concurred with the concerns and questioned procurement timelines, suggesting that extended project development periods might contribute to cost escalation. She inquired whether change orders typically resulted from scope modifications or unexpected infrastructure conditions. Mr. Coley explained that the project had been previously solicited with one (1) unacceptable bid. He advised that the department had implemented cost reduction measures, including owner-furnished equipment, before re-soliciting, but received only one (1) bid from the same contractor. Mr. Coley noted that contractor availability for large, specialized projects represented an ongoing industry challenge, with typical solicitations yielding two (2) to three (3) bidders maximum, and single-bidder responses becoming increasingly common.
Hearing no further discussion, the Committee proceeded to vote on the foregoing proposed resolution, as presented.
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4
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COUNTY MAYOR
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5
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COUNTY ATTORNEY
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6
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CLERK OF THE BOARD
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7
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REPORT(S)
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8
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ADJOURNMENT
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REPORT:
There being no further business to come before the APC, the meeting was adjourned at 11:55 a.m.
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| 8/7/2026 |
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Agenda Key: 5224 |