| |
|
|
|
|
|
1
|
MINUTES PREPARED BY:
|
| |
| |
REPORT:
Tomeka Law, Commission Reporter
305-375-3864
|
|
|
1A
|
INVOCATION AS PROVIDED IN RULE 5.05 (H)
|
| |
| |
REPORT:
Chairwoman Regalado led the invocation, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance led by Commissioner Gonzalez.
|
|
|
1B
|
ROLL CALL
|
| |
| |
REPORT:
In addition to the Committee members, the following staff members were present:
~ Mr. Jimmy Morales, Chief Operating Officer, Office of the Mayor;
~ Dr. Carladenise Edwards, Chief Administrative Officer, Office of the Mayor;
~ Mr. Roy Coley, Chief Utilities and Regulatory Services Officer, Office of the Mayor;
~ Assistant County Attorneys (ACA) Rochelle Hall, Michael Valdes, Eduardo Gonzalez and Eddie Kirtley;
~ Ms. Stacy Miller, Director, Miami-Dade Department of Transportation and Public Works (DTPW);
~ Mr. Alejandro Martinez-Esteve, Assistant Director, People and Internal Operations (PIOD);
~ Deputy Clerks Kerry Khunjar Breakenridge and Tomeka Law, Clerk of the Board.
Commissioners Hardemon and Higgins were also present at today�s meeting.
ACA Rochelle Hall announced a scrivener�s error in Agenda Item 2B, noting that all monetary references on Page MDC003 should read $500 million rather than $500 billion. Additionally, pursuant to �Requested Changes to Appropriations Committee (APC) agenda� dated July 9, 2025, Agenda Items 2F, 3L, 3M, 3N, and 3O should be added to today�s agenda, Agenda Item 3D should be withdrawn, and there was a request to remove co-sponsorship for Agenda 3B.
Commissioner Gonzalez requested to add Agenda Item 3O to the pull list and to co-sponsor Agenda Item 2E.
Vice Chairwoman Cohen Higgins requested to amend Agenda Item 2C and add Agenda Items 2E, 3G and 3K to the pull list.
Chairwoman Regalado requested Agenda Items 2F, 2G, 3L, 3M, 3N and 3O.
be added to the pull list.
ACA Michael Valdes restated the following items would be pulled for consideration: 2C, 2E, 2F, 2G, 3G, 3K, 3L, 3M, 3N, and 3O.
It was moved by Commissioner Gonzalez that today�s APC agenda be approved with the aforementioned changes. This motion was seconded by Commissioner Milian Orbis and upon being put to a vote, passed 5-0.
Note: Agenda Items 2A, 2B, 2D, 3A, 3B, 3C, 3E, 3F, 3H, 3I and 3J were considered simultaneously and forwarded to the Board of County Commissioners (BCC) with a favorable recommendation.
Chairwoman Regalado established new rules for the committee, stating that late-filed items would not be included in consent agendas and would be considered individually. She requested a special Appropriations Committee meeting after the budget was released and expressed concern about items that impacted a budget that commissioners had not fully reviewed.
|
|
|
1C
|
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
|
| |
|
1D
|
REASONABLE OPPORTUNITY FOR THE PUBLIC TO BE HEARD AS PROVIDED IN RULE 6.06
|
| |
| |
REPORT:
Chairwoman Regalado opened the reasonable opportunity to be heard, and seeing no one come forward, the reasonable opportunity for the public to be heard was closed.
|
|
|
1E
|
SPECIAL PRESENTATION(S)
|
| |
|
1F
|
DISCUSSION ITEM(S)
|
| |
|
1G
|
PUBLIC HEARING(S)
|
| |
|
2
|
COUNTY COMMISSION
|
| |
|
2A
|
|
| |
251274
|
Resolution
|
Sen. Rene Garcia
Danielle Cohen Higgins
Anthony Rodriguez
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |
RESOLUTION DIRECTING THE COUNTY MAYOR OR COUNTY MAYOR�S DESIGNEE TO PROVIDE A REPORT ON COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCIES IN MIAMI-DADE COUNTY
|
Forwarded to BCC with a favorable recommendation
Mover: Roberto J. Gonzalez
Seconder: Natalie Milian Orbis
Vote: 5 - 0
|
|
2B
|
|
| |
251385
|
Resolution
|
Danielle Cohen Higgins
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |
RESOLUTION DIRECTING THE COUNTY MAYOR OR MAYOR�S DESIGNEE TO PREPARE A REPORT ON THE FEASIBILITY OF OUTSOURCING THE COLLECTION OF COUNTY DEBT INCLUDING THE FEASIBILITY OF SELLING SUCH DEBT
|
Forwarded to BCC with a favorable recommendation as corrected
Mover: Raquel A. Regalado
Seconder: Roberto J. Gonzalez
Vote: 4 - 0
Absent: Milian Orbis
|
| |
REPORT:
Later in the meeting, Chairwoman Regalado moved to reconsider Agenda Item 2B, which had been originally adopted with the motion to set the agenda.
It was moved by Commissioner Gonzalez to reconsider Agenda Item 2B, seconded by Chairwoman Regalado, and upon being put to a vote, passed 4-0 (Commissioner Milian Orbis was absent).
Chairwoman Regalado confirmed that the item excluded Jackson Health debt and requested clarification on actual collection numbers for the remaining debt. She explained that historically the County had maintained certain debt because some debtors eventually returned for permits or other services and paid their full obligations. Chairwoman Regalado questioned how much the County would receive from a third-party purchaser and whether outsourcing debt collection would require departmental reductions. She stated that if debt collection was being outsourced, the report should address what would happen to employees in the division, including how many people worked there, their union status, whether they would be transferred to other debt collection positions, and potential bumping rights.
Dr. Carladenise Edwards explained that the County's team performed exceptionally well on collecting the $500 million in non-Jackson debt. She stated that the team leveraged relationships between debtors and various County services, facilitating compassionate repayment plans or debt forgiveness when appropriate. Dr. Edwards emphasized that the department was budget-neutral or revenue-generating, and outsourcing would result in losing significant revenue to private vendors who typically retained 35% of collections. She stated that the department preferred keeping this service in-house because it was performed in a manner consistent with County values that protected the best interests and residents who sometimes fell on difficult times.
Commissioner Gonzalez questioned whether it might be better to sell the debt and obtain immediate cash flow rather than spend additional resources attempting to collect money the County might never recover. He referenced his experience where sometimes selling judgments for less than full value was a sound business decision when collection prospects were uncertain or would require lengthy and costly litigation.
Chairwoman Regalado stated that she agreed with Commissioner Gonzalez's point but insisted on understanding implications for department employees. She emphasized that selling debt would affect employees whose primary function was collecting that debt, resulting in workforce impacts. Chairwoman Regalado acknowledged this might prove economically sensible but insisted on transparent analysis of human impacts. She noted that this pattern would occur throughout budget discussions where line-item reductions affected actual employees, and emphasized the importance of being honest about workforce implications rather than treating proposals in isolation.
Dr. Edwards provided real-time data showing that 30 collectors were directly involved in debt collection, generating approximately $17 million annually. She confirmed that 100% of these employees were covered by collective bargaining agreements. Dr. Edwards noted that the department had been reduced by 50% during recent budget cuts, but this workforce was intentionally preserved due to its revenue-generating capacity. She explained that this was actually a division within a larger department, not a standalone department, and there were three other divisions within the same department. Dr. Edwards stated that unionized employees whose positions were eliminated would have bumping rights to eligible positions, while non-union employees would go through a pipeline process to find compatible positions or face termination if unsuccessful.
Vice Chairwoman Cohen Higgins clarified that the agenda item called for a feasibility report, not immediate action, and emphasized the importance of exploring all available options given the $400 million budget shortfall. She stated that the item requested the administration to evaluate potential revenue and losses associated with selling the county's $500 million debt. Vice Chairwoman Cohen Higgins rejected suggestions that the proposal would terminate entire departments, noting that Jackson debt, which comprised $3.6 billion or approximately 88% of total debt, could not be sold and would remain subject to collection efforts by department staff. She clarified that this would not be departmental outsourcing but rather a one-time debt sale, as private companies might employ more efficient collection methods. Vice Chairwoman Cohen Higgins emphasized that the debt was 20 to 40 years old.
Dr. Edwards clarified that the debt ranged from 4 to 20 years old and that the agenda item excluded Jackson's $3.6 billion debt, which comprised approximately 88% of total debt owed to the County. She stated that the County maintained a 61% success rate on collections, which was why Jackson contracted with Miami-Dade County after other vendors had been unsuccessful.
Dr. Edwards noted that many debts were 4 to 20 years old and that the department prioritized accounts based on aging. She stated that the department generated approximately $17 million annually in collections, which far exceeded the cost of running the division. Dr. Edwards acknowledged that the administration could analyze the proposal and provide comprehensive workforce and financial impact assessments as requested by Chairwoman Regalado.
Chairwoman Regalado requested the report address all implications, including impacts on the division, potential effects on Jackson's arrangement with the County, and detailed analysis of workforce implications. She emphasized that budget decisions should be transparent about human impacts rather than treating line items in isolation.
There being no further questions or comments, the Committee proceeded to vote on the foregoing resolution, as corrected.
The foregoing proposed resolution contained a scrivener�s error which was corrected as follows:
All references to $500,000,000,000.00 ($500 billion) on Page MDC003 should read $500,000,000.00 ($500 million).
|
|
|
2C
|
|
| |
251386
|
Resolution
|
Danielle Cohen Higgins
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |
RESOLUTION APPOINTING, IN ACCORDANCE WITH ORDINANCE NO. 02-216 AND SECTION 163.356, FLORIDA STATUTES, STUART ARCHER TO SERVE AS A MEMBER OF THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OF THE NARANJA LAKES COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY; AND DIRECTING THE COUNTY MAYOR OR COUNTY MAYOR'S DESIGNEE TO FILE A CERTIFICATE OF APPOINTMENT WITH THE CLERK OF THE BOARD
|
Amended
|
| |
REPORT:
See Agenda Item 2C Amended, Legislative File No. 251542 for the amended version.
|
|
|
2C Amended
|
|
| |
251542
|
Resolution
|
Danielle Cohen Higgins
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |
RESOLUTION APPOINTING, IN ACCORDANCE WITH ORDINANCE NO. 02-216 AND SECTION 163.356, FLORIDA STATUTES, STUART ARCHER TO SERVE AS A MEMBER OF THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OF THE NARANJA LAKES COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY; AND DIRECTING THE COUNTY MAYOR OR COUNTY MAYOR'S DESIGNEE TO FILE A CERTIFICATE OF APPOINTMENT WITH THE CLERK OF THE BOARD [SEE ORIGINAL ITEM UNDER FILE NO. 251386]
|
Forwarded to BCC with a favorable recommendation with committee amendment(s)
Mover: Danielle Cohen Higgins
Seconder: Roberto J. Gonzalez
Vote: 5 - 0
|
| |
REPORT:
ACA Richard Appleton advised the foregoing proposed resolution would be amended to clarify that Mr. Stuart Archer was appointed to serve the remaining unexpired term of Erick Caceres on the Board of Commissioners of the Naranja Lakes Community Development Agency.
There being no further questions or comments, the Committee proceeded to vote on the foregoing resolution, as amended.
|
|
|
2D
|
|
| |
251395
|
Resolution
|
Danielle Cohen Higgins
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |
RESOLUTION APPROVING EXTENSION OF 2025 REAL AND PERSONAL PROPERTY TAX ROLLS AND ISSUANCE OF TAX BILLS PRIOR TO COMPLETION OF THE VALUE ADJUSTMENT BOARD HEARINGS
|
Forwarded to BCC with a favorable recommendation
Mover: Roberto J. Gonzalez
Seconder: Natalie Milian Orbis
Vote: 5 - 0
|
|
2E
|
|
| |
251444
|
Resolution
|
Raquel A. Regalado
Roberto J. Gonzalez
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |
RESOLUTION DIRECTING THE COUNTY MAYOR OR COUNTY MAYOR�S DESIGNEE TO, TO THE EXTENT NOT ALREADY CONTEMPLATED BY THE FISCAL YEAR 2025-2026 PROPOSED BUDGET, CREATE AND PROPOSE A PLAN TO MAINTAIN FLAT WATER AND SEWER RATES FOR FISCAL YEAR 2025-2026 AND TO TRANSMIT SUCH PLAN TO THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS ON OR BEFORE JULY 31, 2025
|
Amended
|
| |
REPORT:
See Agenda Item 2E Amended, Legislative File No. 251552 for amended version.
|
|
|
2E Amended
|
|
| |
251552
|
Resolution
|
Raquel A. Regalado
Roberto J. Gonzalez
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |
RESOLUTION DIRECTING THE COUNTY MAYOR OR COUNTY MAYOR�S DESIGNEE TO, TO THE EXTENT NOT ALREADY CONTEMPLATED BY THE FISCAL YEAR 2025-2026 PROPOSED BUDGET, CREATE AND PROPOSE A PLAN TO MAINTAIN FLAT WATER AND SEWER RATES FOR FISCAL YEAR 2025-2026 AND TO TRANSMIT SUCH PLAN TO THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS ON OR BEFORE JULY 31, 2025 [SEE ORIGINAL ITEM UNDER FILE NO. 251552]
|
Forwarded to BCC with a favorable recommendation with committee amendment(s)
Mover: Micky Steinberg
Seconder: Roberto J. Gonzalez
Vote: 5 - 0
|
| |
REPORT:
Chairwoman Regalado stated that the proposed resolution demonstrated her commitment to applying budget scrutiny equally across all departments, including those she had historically supported. She noted her five-year involvement with water and sewer matters and acknowledged that while the department had achieved operational savings, it remained subject to a federal consent decree requiring compliance with state regulations. Chairwoman Regalado emphasized that she was holding the Water and Sewer Department to the same standards she had applied to the Department of Solid Waste and that the resolution would require continued collaboration between herself and department leadership in the coming weeks.
Mr. Roy Coley thanked Chairwoman Regalado for her support over the past five years. He confirmed that the department had achieved operational efficiencies through Lean Six Sigma methodologies, eliminating the necessity for operational rate increases. Mr. Coley stated that the department would not request rate increases for operations and had continuously found efficiencies from operating plants to customer service improvements. He clarified that any potential rate increases would be exclusively for capital projects mandated by the consent decree and ocean outfall legislation. Mr. Coley explained that in 2013, the Board had submitted plans to federal and state authorities for both programs, and those plans stipulated that funding would be raised through revenue increases as needed for bond market financing. He stated that the department welcomed working with Chairwoman Regalado to find additional savings through realignment but that the plans submitted in 2013 contemplated raising money through rate increases.
Vice Chairwoman Cohen Higgins congratulated Chief Roy Coley on the department's achievement in keeping water and sewer rates flat for residents. She acknowledged that this accomplishment was significant, particularly given that the department operated under a federal consent decree. However, the Vice Chairwoman expressed concern about the procedural appropriateness of the proposed resolution. She noted that the Board conducted annual budget cycles during which solid waste and water and sewer fees were extensively debated with full access to data and financial projections.
Vice Chairwoman Cohen Higgins stated that having a commissioner sponsor an item directing the administration to maintain flat rates when the administration was already working toward that goal raised concerns about setting an inappropriate precedent. She emphasized her commitment to data-driven decision-making and expressed discomfort with directing the administration without supporting documentation or comprehensive analysis. Vice Chairwoman Cohen Higgins clarified that the resolution lacked attached data, making the discussion premature in her view.
She further noted that not all commissioners had received budget briefings, and the budget had not yet been printed for public review. Vice Chairwoman Cohen Higgins stated that the appropriate time for such decisions would be during the formal budget hearings scheduled for later in the year, when commissioners would have access to detailed financial data and could make fully informed decisions. While she supported the goal of maintaining flat rates, she indicated that she could not support the resolution at that time due to the timing and absence of supporting information.
Chairwoman Regalado clarified that while not all commissioners had received budget briefings, both she and Vice Chairwoman Cohen Higgins had been briefed. She explained that the administration was not recommending flat water and sewer rates; rather, the opposite was true. Chairwoman Regaladi noted that the Board had previously approved a five-year rate increase plan with incremental adjustments designed to fund ocean outfall compliance requirements. However, she stated that her proposed resolution differed from the administration's recommendation and from what would appear in the forthcoming budget.
Chairwoman Regalado emphasized her commitment to dedicating time during late July and early August to work directly with the Water and Sewer Department and administration to explore alternatives. She explained that her rationale for bringing the item forward at this stage stemmed from her prior experience with challenging budget processes. Drawing on her experience at the school board, where budget sessions frequently extended until the early morning hours, Chairwoman Regalado stated that she wanted to avoid subjecting the Water and Sewer Department to similar last-minute negotiations. She explained that her goal was to prevent the department from facing hasty budget decisions made during late-night deliberations, which she believed were less effective than decisions developed through advance planning and structured collaboration with staff.
Mr. Coley clarified his earlier statement regarding rate increases. He explained that operational costs had been sufficiently contained and reduced such that operations would not contribute to any rate increase. However, he emphasized that rate adjustments would still be necessary to fund the department's capital program. Mr. Coley noted that the multi-billion dollar capital improvement program could only be financed through revenue bonds, which required rate support. He reiterated that while operations had maximized cost efficiencies, compliance with the consent decree and ocean outfall requirements mandated continuation of essential capital projects. Therefore, the County would need to either generate revenue through rate increases or identify alternative savings to fund the capital program.
Commissioner Steinberg stated that the information Mr. Coley provided was important and that she would need to review the capital plan during her afternoon briefing. She expressed support for moving the item forward to the Board for discussion but stated that she wanted to ensure the forecast made sense and that efficiencies were sufficient to maintain compliance with the consent decree without increasing rates for residents. Commissioner Steinberg stated that her only concern was consent decree compliance.
Chairwoman Regalado noted that the Board had passed a five-year rate increase plan and had worked on that plan together. She explained that without this item, the direction given to the Water and Sewer Department and administration was to follow the five-year plan. Chairwoman Regalado stated that she did not want to repeal the five-year plan but was looking specifically at the current year. She noted that the department had worked to reduce operations and now needed to look at the capital program to identify efficiencies. Chairwoman Regalado stated that she believed there were efficiencies available, particularly regarding sludge and several other issues.
Commissioner Gonzalez requested to be added as a co-sponsor and stated that he viewed the proposal as creating a plan that would return to the committee for discussion on identifying efficiencies.
Vice Chairwoman Cohen Higgins requested clarification on whether it was the administration's recommendation to raise water and sewer rates, noting that she needed this information to determine her vote.
Mr. Coley stated that the budget had not been finalized and the Mayor had not made her final recommendation, so he could not speak to the final budget. He explained that in compliance with the previously approved plan, rates would be raised if the county wanted to obtain the five or six hundred million dollars needed for capital projects. Mr. Coley noted that each year the department had raised rates, increases had been less than projected due to efficiencies found, stating that while the five-year plan approved 8% annual increases, actual increases had been 4%, 5%, and 6%. He committed that the department could operate without a rate increase for operations, with any rate increase being exclusively for paying for capital projects, presuming the Mayor approved this in her final budget recommendation.
Vice Chairwoman Cohen Higgins expressed concern about the timing and potential consequences if the Board issued a directive to maintain flat rates while the administration required increases for consent decree compliance. She emphasized that the consent decree was a federal mandate requiring specific project completion on a schedule, with substantial federal fines for non-compliance. Vice Chairwoman Cohen Higgins stated that if rates were not raised and it was later determined that increases were necessary for capital improvement project mandates, the county could be subject to federal fines for failing to meet consent decree requirements.
Mr. Coley confirmed that the consent decree was structured as a project-specific decree requiring the county to build specific listed projects on a schedule, with substantial federal fines if the county fell off schedule. He stated that the administration would never recommend a condition that would leave the county subject to fines or fallen off course. Mr. Coley committed to trying to find ways to minimize rate increases ultimately requested but emphasized that the administration would always stay on schedule for ocean outfall and consent order compliance. He noted that under Mayor Levine Cava, the department had completed approximately twice as much work in the past five years as in the previous five.
Vice Chairwoman Cohen Higgins thanked Chief Coley for clarifying the distinction between operational and capital funding needs. She stated that his confirmation that the budget had not been finalized heightened her concern about the proposed resolution. Vice Chairwoman Cohen Higgins explained that if the Board directed the Mayor to maintain flat rates, but the department subsequently determined that rate increases were necessary to comply with the federal consent decree, the County could potentially face substantial federal fines for non-compliance. She emphasized that she was not prepared to accept the consequences of a directive that might conflict with mandatory capital improvement requirements under the consent decree. While Vice Chairwoman Cohen Higgins expressed support for the goal of keeping rates flat, she indicated that without finalized budget data showing how compliance could be achieved without rate increases, she could not support the resolution at that time.
Chairwoman Regalado asked Mr. Coley to clarify how the department had changed what was originally approved by the Board regarding the consent decree to save on capital costs, citing the example of using water reuse for Turkey Point instead of building as many deep water injection wells as originally planned.
Mr. Coley stated that the biggest savings the department found was proving to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) that high-level disinfection at the Central District was not necessary, saving hundreds of millions of dollars. He noted that the County was the number one recipient of Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA) loans from the federal government, essentially providing free money that saved hundreds of millions. Mr. Coley explained that operational savings had been achieved through technology, including automated water quality monitoring and testing to reduce chemical usage at all plants and reduce labor needs through automation.
Commissioner Gonzalez stated that Mr. Coley�s clarification was helpful and acknowledged that the resolution raised an important discussion. He noted that Vice Chairwoman Cohen Higgins had identified a critical concern: the County could not be placed in a position of non-compliance with the federal consent decree. Commissioner Gonzalez suggested that the resolution could be amended to include a directive requiring the administration to provide a comprehensive explanation if maintaining flat rates proved infeasible. He proposed that such an explanation should detail the capital expenses and inflationary factors, both global and local, that would prevent the County from avoiding rate increases while remaining in compliance with federal requirements.
Dr. Carladenise Edwards suggested amending the item to include language requiring the administration to explain capital expenses and inflationary factors that would preclude achieving the rate freeze if the flat rate plan was not possible. She recommended incorporating an obligation for the administration to provide explanations of global and local factors influencing procurement costs that had changed in recent months.
Commissioner Steinberg suggested modifying the item to include flexibility provisions, noting that this concerned capital improvements and that she did not want infrastructure work derailed or postponed. She stated that language should ensure the department could meet targets for upcoming fiscal year projects while maintaining consent decree compliance.
Chairwoman Regalado stated that she and Chief Coley had already discussed including additional provisions and was willing to formalize them through an amendment. She clarified that the department's capital program included distinct project categories: ocean outfall projects, consent decree projects, and other capital improvements. Chairwoman Regalado emphasized that not all capital projects were subject to federal mandates and requested that the administration provide detailed information on all planned projects in a format that allowed the Board sufficient time for review and analysis. Chairwoman Regalado stated that this approach would prevent last-minute budget decisions that could lead to extended deliberations without adequate information to evaluate alternatives.
Commissioner Steinberg stated that she viewed this as an exercise similar to what had been done with other departments to examine what maintaining flat rates would look like, and with that understanding, she was comfortable supporting the item as amended.
Vice Chairwoman Cohen Higgins stated that with the proposed amendment addressed her concerns and expressed her support for the item as amended.
There being no further questions or comments, the Committee proceeded to vote on the foregoing resolution, as amended to include a directive to the County Mayor or County Mayor's designee to provide an explanation to the Board of County Commissioners if the requested plan to maintain flat water and sewer rates in Fiscal Year 2025-2026 while maintaining service levels and ensuring compliance with regulatory and capital obligations was not feasible.
|
|
|
2F
|
|
| |
251477
|
Resolution
|
Kionne L. McGhee
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |
RESOLUTION APPROVING THE BIFURCATION OF THE TRANSIT ORIENTED DEVELOPMENT LEASE AGREEMENT WITH CARIBBEAN VILLAGE, LTD., A FLORIDA PARTNERSHIP AND AN ENTITY AFFILIATED WITH PINNACLE HOUSING GROUP, FOR THE PROVISION OF AN AFFORDABLE HOUSING DEVELOPMENT; APPROVING THE TERMS OF AND AUTHORIZING THE COUNTY MAYOR OR COUNTY MAYOR�S DESIGNEE TO (1) EXECUTE THE CARIBBEAN VILLAGE TRANSIT ORIENTED DEVELOPMENT AMENDED AND RESTATED LEASE AGREEMENT WITH CARIBBEAN VILLAGE, LTD., IN THE TOTAL AMOUNT OF $195,000.00, AND A TERM OF 55 YEARS WITH TWO 15-YEAR OPTIONS TO RENEW, (2) EXECUTE THE CARIBBEAN ISLES TRANSIT ORIENTED DEVELOPMENT LEASE AGREEMENT WITH CARIBBEAN ISLES, LLLP, A FLORIDA LIMITED LIABILITY LIMITED PARTNERSHIP, IN THE TOTAL AMOUNT OF $164,218.00, AND A TERM OF 65 YEARS WITH ONE OPTION TO RENEW UNTIL JUNE 27, 2103, AND (3) EXERCISE ANY AND ALL OTHER RIGHTS CONFERRED THEREIN, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO TERMINATION AND AMENDMENT PROVISIONS; AND WAIVING ORDINANCE NO. 24-30 RELATED TO THE COMMUNITY BENEFITS STATEMENT BY A TWO-THIRDS VOTE OF THE MEMBERS PRESENT
|
Forwarded to BCC with a favorable recommendation
Mover: Roberto J. Gonzalez
Seconder: Micky Steinberg
Vote: 5 - 0
|
| |
REPORT:
There being no questions or comments, the Committee proceeded to vote on the foregoing resolution, as presented.
|
|
|
2G
|
|
| |
251144
|
Resolution
|
Eileen Higgins
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |
RESOLUTION AMENDING RESOLUTION NO. R-840-09 TO: (1) EXPAND THE ALLOWABLE SCOPE OF PRELIMINARY ENGINEERING AGREEMENTS TO ENCOMPASS RAILROAD COMPANIES ENGINEERING WORK RELATED TO TRANSIT PROJECTS AFFECTING RAILROAD PROPERTY GENERALLY; (2) AUTHORIZE THE COUNTY MAYOR OR COUNTY MAYOR�S DESIGNEE TO AWARD SUCH AGREEMENTS; (3) INCREASE THE CONTRACTING AUTHORITY OF THE COUNTY MAYOR OR COUNTY MAYOR�S DESIGNEE TO AN AMOUNT OF UP TO $5,000,000.00 PER AGREEMENT FOR NON-SURTAX FUNDED PROJECTS, AND UP TO $5,000,000.00 CUMULATIVELY FOR SURTAX FUNDED PROJECTS, INCLUDING THE AUTHORITY TO AMEND AGREEMENTS IN EFFECT UNDER RESOLUTION NO. R-840-09; (4) AUTHORIZE THE COUNTY MAYOR OR COUNTY MAYOR�S DESIGNEE TO EXERCISE ALL PROVISIONS OF SUCH AGREEMENTS, INCLUDING CANCELLATION AND EXTENSION PROVISIONS; AND (5) AUTHORIZE THE USE OF CHARTER COUNTY TRANSPORTATION SURTAX FUNDS FOR ELIGIBLE TRANSIT PROJECTS CONTAINED IN THE FIVE YEAR IMPLEMENTATION PLAN OR AUTHORIZING THE USE OF OTHER LEGALLY PERMISSIBLE FUNDING SOURCES FOR PERFORMANCE OF SERVICES UNDER SUCH AGREEMENTS
|
Forwarded to BCC with a favorable recommendation
Mover: Micky Steinberg
Seconder: Danielle Cohen Higgins
Vote: 5 - 0
|
| |
REPORT:
Commissioner Higgins advised the committee that this item had been submitted to the Chairwoman's office and approved by the Citizens' Independent Transportation Trust (CITT) on May 28, 2025. She noted that there was no fiscal impact to the budget as the item only changed the implementation process for previously approved safety projects along rail corridors.
Commissioner Higgins explained that the $25,000 spending authority threshold set 17 years ago was inadequate and caused six-month delays, as all current projects exceeded that amount. She stated that the item would allow the department to accelerate project implementation without requiring individual board items for each rail crossing safety improvement.
Chairwoman Regalado expressed support for increasing the spending authority and acknowledged that the outdated threshold had caused significant project delays and inefficiencies. She conveyed enthusiasm for the Hialeah rail yard project, citing extensive area development including potential inland port discussions that required coordinated infrastructure planning.
Chairwoman Regalado raised concerns regarding the Coastal Link project despite recognizing Commissioner Higgins' substantial efforts on the initiative. She noted that State-level funding uncertainties for Tri-Rail had created obstacles for the project's advancement. Chairwoman Regalado requested clarification on project prioritization to ensure the county would not face criticism for pursuing initiatives with uncertain funding prospects.
Ms. Stacy Miller provided a comprehensive breakdown of the types of work and associated costs. She stated the department conducted approximately six basic reviews annually of railroad crossings at various locations at approximately $50,000 per review, four complex reviews annually of railroad crossings at approximately $100,000 each on the South Florida Rail Corridor and Florida East Coast Railway corridors, design work and safety railroad improvements costing approximately $1 million per design, and flagging support services for 45 days per year at $3,100 per day, totaling approximately $150,000.
Ms. Miller explained that the expenditure authority was not intended for specific project prioritization but rather addressed ongoing operational requirements with the South Florida Regional Transportation Authority, Florida East Coast Railway, and projects such as Hialeah Yard. She described the work as facilitating plan reviews for yard tenants while coordinating with multiple stakeholders including Amtrak, Florida East Coast Railway, inland ports, and other railroad corridor entities. Ms. Miller described the approach as comprehensive rather than project-specific, encompassing annual assessments conducted with the Florida Department of Transportation and railroad partners, with work prioritization determined by emerging safety improvement requirements.
Chairwoman Regalado inquired whether the $5 million estimate was included as a line item in the upcoming budget or was based on historical expenditures.
Ms. Miller stated that the $5 million represented an estimate of work normally performed on an annual basis and was not a specific line item but would be embedded in various line items throughout the budget.
Dr. Carladenise Edwards explained that the agenda item requested authority to spend up to $5 million for railroad safety improvements in the upcoming year. She reminded the committee that while the administration was focused on closing the gap in general funds, these projects were funded by surtax dollars and other vehicles rather than general fund revenue.
Chairwoman Regalado identified the problem as a disconnect between the transit gap and estimates provided. She expressed her desire to be provided with exact numbers for the next fiscal year's railroad crossing expenditures rather than estimates based on past spending. She noted that she understood the request for authority but wanted clarity on actual planned expenditures within the budget context.
Vice Chairwoman Cohen Higgins stated that in budget briefings with commissioners, discussions had focused almost solely on the general fund gap, while surtax funding and other vehicles were used for railroad safety activities. She requested that the director provide a list of planned activities for the coming year and funding sources for those respective activities to provide reassurance that expenditures would not exceed budgeted amounts.
Chairwoman Regalado noted that CITT had approved this item before receiving budget reductions and asked how much funding CITT would lose in the upcoming budget.
Ms. Miller stated that CITT would lose approximately $27 million.
Chairwoman Regalado emphasized that the financial situation had changed significantly since CITT's approval of the item in May, making clarity on specific projects even more important.
Commissioner Higgins stated that both of her items addressed standards and processes that were set nearly two decades ago, emphasizing that the department would not spend funds unless projects were approved in the budget or five-year plan with CITT. She explained that without this authority increase, every rail crossing project would require a separate Board item, adding four months to project timelines and administrative burden. Commissioner Higgins characterized this as a process improvement rather than a budget expansion, noting that if no rail crossing safety projects were approved in the budget, none of this authority would be exercised.
Chairwoman Regalado noted that placing a dollar amount on the item triggered budget discussions and requested a detailed list of planned projects when the item came before the Board on July 16, 2025, to provide clarity on what would be accomplished before September 1, 2025, and what was programmed for the following budget year.
In response to Commissioner Gonzalez's inquiry regarding State funding for the Coastal Link, Commissioner Higgins advised that the funding source for both the Coastal Link and Tri-Rail was inadvertently eliminated in error at the State level and would be corrected in the upcoming months, whether through a special summer session or the next legislative session. She reported that the $389 million in federal funding was included in the President's budget that was signed.
Commissioner Higgins stated that she had spoken with Broward County�s Mayor and State legislators, who confirmed they did not realize the funding elimination occurred and had committed to correcting it. She explained that the critical path for the Northeast Corridor was not construction but rather the purchase of locomotives and rolling stock, which could take over four years, providing sufficient time to address rail crossings once state matching funds were secured.
Chairwoman Regalado voiced concerns regarding funding for the Coastal Link and suggested holding off on Coastal Link planning and engineering until State funding issues were resolved. She emphasized that while everyone was working to address the issue, they had not yet identified the funding source to make things right.
Commissioner Steinberg voiced her objections to Chairwoman Regalado's suggestion of halting the Coastal Link project entirely, stating that the County would fall significantly behind schedule once the funding issue was resolved. She noted that timing happened quickly and expressed concern that stopping all work would cause unnecessary delays.
Commissioner Higgins agreed that money should not be spent unnecessarily and distinguished between design and planning work versus actual construction, stating that she did not think they should start construction on rail crossings but that design and planning should continue given the long engineering timeline ahead.
Commissioner Gonzalez stated that he agreed with both perspectives, expressing that while he did not want to halt the project, he also did not want to invest in it and then find the County could not afford to complete it.
Chairwoman Regalado stated that the project could hold for a month or two until funding was clarified, and the department could continue work on Hialeah and other projects happening in real time.
There being no further questions or comments, the Committee proceeded to vote on the foregoing resolution, as presented.
|
|
|
3
|
DEPARTMENT(S)
|
| |
|
3A
|
|
| |
250971
|
Resolution
|
Marleine Bastien
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |
RESOLUTION APPROVING THE AMENDED FISCAL YEAR 2023-2024 AND FISCAL YEAR 2024-2025 BUDGETS FOR THE NORTH MIAMI COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY AND THE NORTH MIAMI COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AREA TOTALING $78,761,336.00 AND $78,380,705.00, RESPECTIVELY
|
Forwarded to BCC with a favorable recommendation
Mover: Roberto J. Gonzalez
Seconder: Natalie Milian Orbis
Vote: 5 - 0
|
|
3B
|
|
| |
251362
|
Resolution
|
|
Strategic Procurement |
| |
RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING ACCESS OF SOURCEWELL CONTRACT NO. 092222-CAT, ELECTRICAL ENERGY POWER GENERATION EQUIPMENT, IN A TOTAL AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $73,581,794.00 FOR THE REMAINING INITIAL TERM EXPIRING ON NOVEMBER 22, 2026 AND ONE, ONE-YEAR OPTION TO RENEW TERM FOR THE WATER AND SEWER DEPARTMENT; 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 CODE OF MIAMI-DADE COUNTY, FLORIDA AND IMPLEMENTING ORDER 3-38
|
Forwarded to BCC with a favorable recommendation
Mover: Roberto J. Gonzalez
Seconder: Natalie Milian Orbis
Vote: 5 - 0
|
|
3C
|
|
| |
251101
|
Resolution
|
Danielle Cohen Higgins
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |
RESOLUTION APPROVING AWARD OF CONTRACT NO. EVN0012788 TO JIREH LANDSCAPING, CORP. FOR GROUNDS MAINTENANCE SERVICES FOR MIAMI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT IN A TOTAL AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $11,693,867.00 FOR A FIVE-YEAR TERM FOR THE MIAMI-DADE AVIATION DEPARTMENT; AND AUTHORIZING THE COUNTY MAYOR OR COUNTY MAYOR�S DESIGNEE TO GIVE NOTICE OF THIS AWARD TO THE RECOMMENDED VENDOR, ISSUE THE APPROPRIATE PURCHASE ORDERS TO GIVE EFFECT TO SAME, AND 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
|
Forwarded to BCC with a favorable recommendation
Mover: Roberto J. Gonzalez
Seconder: Natalie Milian Orbis
Vote: 5 - 0
|
|
3D
|
|
| |
251190
|
Resolution
|
Keon Hardemon
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |
RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING ACCESS OF CONTRACT BY NASPO, CONTRACT NO. S-10700-00011242, PASSENGER VEHICLE AND BOX TRUCK RENTALS WITH THE HERTZ CORPORATION, IN A TOTAL AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $8,420,395.00, TO BECOME EFFECTIVE UPON BOARD APPROVAL THROUGH AUGUST 1, 2026, WITH OPTIONS TO RENEW THE CONTRACT THROUGH JULY 31, 2030 FOR MULTIPLE COUNTY DEPARTMENTS; AND AUTHORIZING THE COUNTY MAYOR OR COUNTY MAYOR�S DESIGNEE TO EXERCISE ALL PROVISIONS OF THE CONTRACT, INCLUDING ANY CANCELLATION, RENEWALS, 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 AWARDED A CONTRACT BY NASPO AND PROVIDE THE COUNTY THE REQUIRED DOCUMENTS AND/OR VERIFICATION OF INFORMATION
|
Withdrawn
Mover: Roberto J. Gonzalez
Seconder: Natalie Milian Orbis
Vote: 5 - 0
|
| |
REPORT:
The foregoing proposed resolution was withdrawn with the setting of the agenda.
|
|
|
3E
|
|
| |
251292
|
Resolution
|
|
Strategic Procurement |
| |
RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING ADDITIONAL TIME OF FIVE YEARS AND EXPENDITURE AUTHORITY UP TO $7,000,000.00 FOR A TOTAL MODIFIED CUMULATIVE POOL AMOUNT OF $14,020,000.00 FOR PREQUALIFICATION POOL NO. RTQ-00410 FOR THE PURCHASE OF HEAD START/EARLY HEAD START PROGRAM RELATED SERVICES FOR THE COMMUNITY ACTION AND HUMAN SERVICES DEPARTMENT; PROVIDED THAT ANY CONTRACT AWARD UNDER THE PREQUALIFICATION POOL EXCEEDING $5,000,000.00 IS SUBJECT TO RATIFICATION BY THE BOARD
|
Forwarded to BCC with a favorable recommendation
Mover: Roberto J. Gonzalez
Seconder: Natalie Milian Orbis
Vote: 5 - 0
|
|
3F
|
|
| |
251297
|
Resolution
|
|
Strategic Procurement |
| |
RESOLUTION APPROVING AWARD OF CONTRACT NO. EVN0003581 TO MINNESOTA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY FOR EMPLOYEE LIFE AND ACCIDENTAL DEATH AND DISMEMBERMENT (AD&D) INSURANCE IN THE ESTIMATED AMOUNT OF $125,300,000.00 FOR A FIVE-YEAR TERM WITH ONE, TWO-YEAR OPTION TO RENEW FOR THE PEOPLE AND INTERNAL OPERATIONS DEPARTMENT; AND AUTHORIZING THE COUNTY MAYOR OR COUNTY MAYOR�S DESIGNEE TO EXECUTE THE AGREEMENT AND 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
|
Forwarded to BCC with a favorable recommendation
Mover: Roberto J. Gonzalez
Seconder: Natalie Milian Orbis
Vote: 5 - 0
|
|
3G
|
|
| |
251300
|
Resolution
|
|
Strategic Procurement |
| |
RESOLUTION APPROVING AWARD OF CONTRACT NO. EVN0003513 TO ARAG INSURANCE COMPANY FOR EMPLOYEE GROUP LEGAL SERVICES IN AN AMOUNT ESTIMATED TO BE $18,400,000.00 FOR A FIVE-YEAR TERM WITH ONE, TWO-YEAR OPTION TO RENEW FOR THE PEOPLE AND INTERNAL OPERATIONS DEPARTMENT; AND AUTHORIZING THE COUNTY MAYOR OR COUNTY MAYOR�S DESIGNEE TO EXECUTE THE AGREEMENT AND 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
|
Forwarded to BCC with a favorable recommendation
Mover: Danielle Cohen Higgins
Seconder: Micky Steinberg
Vote: 4 - 0
Absent: Gonzalez
|
| |
REPORT:
Vice Chairwoman Cohen Higgins questioned employee participation and satisfaction rates regarding the voluntary legal services program, emphasizing the need to assess not just registration numbers, but actual service utilization and perceived value. She requested the administration to provide a comprehensive report that includes employee feedback on the program�s effectiveness and fairness and whether the awarded vendor had any rights based on employee participation.
Dr. Carladenise Edwards confirmed the service was 100% voluntary during open enrollment periods, often requested by union partners as an employee benefit option. She shared her personal positive experience with the program and agreed that employee satisfaction surveys would be valuable for future evaluation. Dr. Edwards explained that the County tried to provide employees with multiple benefit choices to improve the employee experience and supplement health benefits. She further explained that the vendor had no guarantee of number of employees enrolled in the plan.
Chairwoman Regalado explained that the idea of the program was to give employees access to attorneys for services outside of union attorneys. She cautioned about potential confusion when employees discontinued payment of the service but later attempted to access it.
There being no further questions or comments, the Committee proceeded to vote on the foregoing resolution, as presented.
|
|
|
3H
|
|
| |
251363
|
Resolution
|
|
Strategic Procurement |
| |
RESOLUTION APPROVING AWARD OF CONTRACT NO. EVN0003533 TO HUMANA INSURANCE COMPANY FOR EMPLOYEE VOLUNTARY GROUP VISION INSURANCE PROGRAM IN THE AMOUNT OF $20,667,655.00 FOR A THREE-YEAR TERM WITH ONE, TWO-YEAR OPTION TO REVIEW FOR THE PEOPLE AND INTERNAL OPERATIONS DEPARTMENT; AND AUTHORIZING THE COUNTY MAYOR OR COUNTY MAYOR�S DESIGNEE TO EXECUTE THE AGREEMENT AND 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
|
Forwarded to BCC with a favorable recommendation
Mover: Roberto J. Gonzalez
Seconder: Natalie Milian Orbis
Vote: 5 - 0
|
|
3I
|
|
| |
251365
|
Resolution
|
|
Strategic Procurement |
| |
RESOLUTION APPROVING AWARD OF NON-COMPETITIVE LEGACY CONTRACT NO. L-10550 TO ADVANCED CONTROLS CORPORATION, INC. FOR THE PURCHASE OF TOUR ANDOVER BMS MAINTENANCE SERVICES IN A TOTAL AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $5,516,335.00 FOR A FIVE-YEAR TERM AND ONE, FIVE-YEAR OPTION TO RENEW FOR THE PEOPLE AND INTERNAL OPERATIONS DEPARTMENT; 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
|
Forwarded to BCC with a favorable recommendation
Mover: Roberto J. Gonzalez
Seconder: Natalie Milian Orbis
Vote: 5 - 0
|
|
3J
|
|
| |
251153
|
Resolution
|
|
Transportation and Public Works |
| |
RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING AWARD OF A DESIGNATED PURCHASE PURSUANT TO SECTION 2-8.1(B)(3) OF THE COUNTY CODE BY A TWO-THIRDS VOTE OF THE BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT; AUTHORIZING ADDITIONAL TIME OF FIVE YEARS AND EXPENDITURE AUTHORITY IN THE AMOUNT OF $5,500,000.00 FOR CONTRACT NO. RFP746; AND AUTHORIZING THE COUNTY MAYOR OR COUNTY MAYOR�S DESIGNEE TO EXECUTE SUPPLEMENTAL AGREEMENT NO. 7 ON BEHALF OF MIAMI-DADE COUNTY AND TO 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
|
Forwarded to BCC with a favorable recommendation
Mover: Roberto J. Gonzalez
Seconder: Natalie Milian Orbis
Vote: 5 - 0
|
|
3K
|
|
| |
251187
|
Resolution
|
|
Strategic Procurement |
| |
RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING A NON-COMPETITIVE DESIGNATED PURCHASE PURSUANT TO SECTION 2-8.1(B)(3) OF THE COUNTY CODE BY A TWO-THIRDS VOTE OF THE BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT; AUTHORIZING ADDITIONAL TIME OF 18 MONTHS AND EXPENDITURE AUTHORITY IN AN AMOUNT UP TO $12,048,354.00 FOR A TOTAL MODIFIED CUMULATIVE AMOUNT OF $33,427,721.00 FOR CONTRACT NO. RFP-01083 FOR ON-DEMAND TRANSIT SERVICES FOR THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION AND PUBLIC WORKS; AND AUTHORIZING THE COUNTY MAYOR OR THE COUNTY MAYOR�S DESIGNEE TO EXECUTE SUPPLEMENTAL AGREEMENT NO. 4 AND EXERCISE ALL PROVISIONS OF THE CONTRACT, PURSUANT TO SECTION 2-8.1 OF THE COUNTY CODE AND IMPLEMENTING ORDER 3-38
|
Amended
|
| |
REPORT:
See Agenda Item 3K Amended, Legislative File No. 251541 for amended version.
|
|
|
3K Amended
|
|
| |
251541
|
Resolution
|
|
Strategic Procurement |
| |
RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING A NON-COMPETITIVE DESIGNATED PURCHASE PURSUANT TO SECTION 2-8.1(B)(3) OF THE COUNTY CODE BY A TWO-THIRDS VOTE OF THE BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT; AUTHORIZING ADDITIONAL TIME OF FOUR MONTHS AND EXPENDITURE AUTHORITY IN AN AMOUNT UP TO $2,677,412.00 FOR A TOTAL MODIFIED CUMULATIVE AMOUNT OF $24,056,779.00 FOR CONTRACT NO. RFP-01083 FOR ON-DEMAND TRANSIT SERVICES FOR THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION AND PUBLIC WORKS; AND AUTHORIZING THE COUNTY MAYOR OR THE COUNTY MAYOR�S DESIGNEE TO EXECUTE SUPPLEMENTAL AGREEMENT NO. 4 AND EXERCISE ALL PROVISIONS OF THE CONTRACT, PURSUANT TO SECTION 2-8.1 OF THE COUNTY CODE AND IMPLEMENTING ORDER 3-38 [SEE ORIGINAL ITEM UNDER FILE NO. 251187]
|
Forwarded to BCC with a favorable recommendation with committee amendment(s)
Mover: Roberto J. Gonzalez
Seconder: Danielle Cohen Higgins
Vote: 4 - 0
Absent: Milian Orbis
|
| |
REPORT:
Chairwoman Regalado voiced concerns regarding the microtransit service that had been provided free of charge since 2020 at an average cost of $645,000 per year. She stated that she had been requesting data on this service for over three years and that the average cost of each ride was approximately $20 that the County subsidized. Chairwoman Regalado explained that she had been told this was a first-and-last-mile service for routes eliminated by Better Bus, but the service had expanded beyond that scope. She stated that the service had been completely free since 2020 while the County charged fees for Metro Rail, Metro Bus, and Special Transportation Services, with STS riders paying $3.50 per ride. Chairwoman Regalado characterized the arrangement as inequitable, noting that usage statistics showed the same group of users repeatedly utilized the service, essentially providing private drivers to certain residents while charging fees for other transit modes. She objected to an 18-month sole-source extension worth $12 million without competitive bidding, noting the $12 million was not included in the budget. Chairwoman Regalado cited usage statistics showing only 60% of users connecting to public transit, with 62% grocery shopping, 57% getting to work, and 47% attending medical appointments. She stated that while she understood people were using the service to go places, the County was providing free door-to-destination service for some while charging others for transit. Chairwoman Regalado proposed amending the item to extend the contract only until December 2025 while issuing an Request for Proposal (RFP), noting this was a sole-source contract that should be competitively bid. She stated that if the Board decided to continue the service, an RFP would provide options and better pricing.
Vice Chairwoman Cohen Higgins defended the program as a valuable first-and-last-mile solution designed to increase public transit ridership, particularly supporting the $300 million Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) investment in the south. She emphasized that 60% of users were utilizing the service to connect to the public transportation system, which was the unified goal of increasing ridership. Vice Chairwoman Cohen Higgins stated that the application was open to anyone who downloaded it, with no selection based on class or income, and argued that this model had been emulated by other major municipalities as a viable microtransit solution. She stated that from her perspective, the service provided value for residents without transportation access to transit stations and looked forward to future budget conversations about where dollars should be spent.
Dr. Carladenise Edwards acknowledged the challenging fiscal environment but requested that the Board approve the 18-month contract extension. She noted that the contract included a 90-day termination clause, allowing the County to adjust services based on final budget decisions. Dr. Edwards emphasized the administration's responsibility to present a balanced budget and stated that the County would modify services as necessary following adoption of the fiscal year 2026 budget. She indicated that while the County should fulfill commitments made during the current fiscal year, residents understood that new leadership and financial pressures required budget adjustments moving forward.
Chairwoman Regalado expressed her disagreement with an 18-month sole-source extension and stated that while she understood the contract expired in August and the department needed time, an RFP should be issued if the Board decided to keep the service. She reiterated that the County had been providing free service since 2020 while charging disabled STS riders $3.50 per ride to travel in rideshare vehicles throughout Miami-Dade County. Chairwoman Regalado stated that she would feel comfortable with an extension through December to allow for RFP development and emphasized that competitive bidding was necessary as the current arrangement was a sole-source contract at a high price point.
Ms. Stacy Miller reported that the department was agreeable to extending the contract until December 2025, and if budget discussions resulted in continuing on-demand service, the department would issue an RFP and move forward. Ms. Miller noted that if the RFP process extended beyond December, the department might return to request an additional extension.
Chairwoman Regalado stated that she would support additional contract extensions if needed and committed to facilitating the process, including accepting late submissions and placing items on the consent agenda to ensure the department maintained uninterrupted service. However, she recommended that the department consider implementing a minimum fare of three dollars and fifty cents consistent with other transit services rather than continuing to provide completely free rides. Chairwoman Regalado noted that each ride cost the County between $13 and $20, so charging the standard transit fare would still represent a significant subsidy while introducing cost-sharing. She stated that usage data indicated the current free service arrangement was being overutilized. Chairwoman Regalado added that if individual commissioners wished to maintain specific service zones within their districts, they could negotiate those arrangements directly with the department.
Discussion ensued between Chairwoman Regalado and Ms. Miller regarding transit subsidy comparisons.
Chairwoman Regalado noted that riders paid only 10% of actual costs for Metro Rail and buses, with the County subsidizing 90% of traditional transit while providing 100% subsidy for the microtransit service. She emphasized the need to consider return on investment and questioned how the county was investing money and what return it was receiving in terms of actual ridership generated.
Vice Chairwoman Cohen Higgins stated that she was amenable to an extension until December and acknowledged that additional time might be needed for the RFP process. She reiterated her position that this was an important discussion about where public transportation dollars should be spent and that this model served as a first-and-last-mile micro transit solution aimed at increasing ridership for the public transportation system.
There being no further questions or comments, the Committee proceeded to vote on the foregoing resolution, as amended to extend the contract through December 2025 with direction to issue an RFP if the service was to continue.
|
|
|
3L
|
|
| |
251337
|
Resolution
|
Oliver G. Gilbert, III
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |
RESOLUTION APPROVING, PURSUANT TO SECTION 125.38, FLORIDA STATUTES, THE TERMS OF AND AUTHORIZING EXECUTION BY THE COUNTY MAYOR OR COUNTY MAYOR�S DESIGNEE OF A RETROACTIVE LEASE AGREEMENT (''LEASE'') BETWEEN MIAMI-DADE COUNTY, AS LANDLORD, AND STATE OF FLORIDA STATE REPRESENTATIVE FELICIA ROBINSON, FOR COUNTY-OWNED PROPERTY LOCATED AT 16405 NW 25 AVENUE, MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA 33054, OFFICE NUMBER 32 (FOLIO NO. 34-2115-000-0010) FOR A TWO-YEAR INITIAL TERM WITH ONE TWO-YEAR OPTION TO RENEW, WITH A POSITIVE FISCAL IMPACT TO THE COUNTY OF $5,600.00 FOR THE ENTIRE TERM; DECLARING SUCH PROPERTY AS SURPLUS; AND AUTHORIZING THE COUNTY MAYOR OR THE COUNTY MAYOR�S DESIGNEE TO EXERCISE ANY AND ALL RIGHTS CONFERRED IN THE LEASE, AND TO TAKE ALL ACTIONS NECESSARY TO EFFECTUATE SAME; AND DIRECTING THE COUNTY OR COUNTY MAYOR�S DESIGNEE TO PROVIDE AN EXECUTED COPY OF THE LEASE TO THE PROPERTY APPRAISER�S OFFICE WITHIN 30 DAYS OF EXECUTION
|
Forwarded to BCC with a favorable recommendation
Mover: Roberto J. Gonzalez
Seconder: Danielle Cohen Higgins
Vote: 4 - 0
Absent: Milian Orbis
|
| |
REPORT:
There being no questions or comments, the Committee proceeded to vote on the foregoing resolution, as presented.
|
|
|
3M
|
|
| |
251383
|
Resolution
|
Eileen Higgins
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |
RESOLUTION AMENDING RESOLUTION NO. R-797-00 FOR THE PURPOSE OF AUTHORIZING THE COUNTY MAYOR OR COUNTY MAYOR�S DESIGNEE TO SECURE INDEPENDENT, CERTIFIED REAL ESTATE APPRAISERS ON AN AS NEEDED BASIS TO PROVIDE APPRAISAL SERVICES FOR THE PEOPLE AND INTERNAL OPERATIONS DEPARTMENT UP TO THE INCREASED MAXIMUM ANNUAL EXPENDITURE AMOUNT OF $360,000.00 PER YEAR PLUS AN ADDITIONAL EXPENDITURE NOT TO EXCEED 20 PERCENT ($72,000.00) IN CALENDAR YEARS THAT EXTRAORDINARY EXPENSES ARE INCURRED
|
Forwarded to BCC with a favorable recommendation
Mover: Danielle Cohen Higgins
Seconder: Natalie Milian Orbis
Vote: 4 - 0
Absent: Gonzalez
|
| |
REPORT:
Commissioner Higgins reiterated that the foregoing legislation was drafted to assist in accelerating the County's appraisal process, which she described as severely dysfunctional due to spending limits that had remained unchanged for 25 years. She reported that the department had exhausted its expenditure authority and could no longer conduct appraisals, which was impacting affordable housing projects across multiple districts. Commissioner Higgins acknowledged that the item had been submitted late but emphasized the need to advance projects during the summer months.
Commissioner Higgins explained that by United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) standards, appraisals were required anytime the County was building affordable housing, and projects such as the Metro Center required appraisals before contracts could be issued.
Chairwoman Regalado acknowledged the need to expedite appraisal processes and agreed with the timing of the proposed changes. However, she raised concerns about inconsistent application of appraisal requirements across the County. Chairwoman Regalado noted that appraisal protocols appeared to vary depending on the assigned attorney and the specific project involved. She requested that the administration review data on appraisal practices, including the frequency of waivers granted, the number of appraisals completed, and instances where the Board made decisions that did not align with appraisal findings. Chairwoman Regalado emphasized the importance of establishing uniform standards for when appraisals are required and when exceptions may be granted.
Mr. Alejandro Martinez-Esteve explained that the department based the requested amount on historical data. He stated that in previous years, actual expenditures had almost doubled the current authority limit, with the department operating at approximately 75-80% of the requested amount. Mr. Martinez-Esteve noted that the initial expenditure authority of $50,000 was typically exceeded by three to four times annually, presenting challenges for timeliness and requiring appraisers to either delay invoice submission or provide services as favors until the next budget year. He indicated that the proposed increased amount was calculated based on historical usage patterns and would accommodate anticipated future requirements.
In response to Chairwoman Regalado's question regarding funding sources and cost recovery, Mr. Martinez-Esteve confirmed that funding for appraisals came from particular departments or projects. He explained that the department was working with a district commissioner to modify procedures so that developers would bear appraisal costs directly rather than requiring the County to advance funds. He indicated that until these changes were implemented, the County would continue to front costs to appraisers, with reimbursement from developers occurring later in the process.
Chairwoman Regalado confirmed that once deals came before the commission, appraisal costs would be passed on to whoever was doing the project, or at worst case, would be embedded in the deal.
Mr. Martinez-Esteve confirmed this was correct and stated that the modifications being contemplated would account for multiple properties requiring appraisal and increased costs based on the number of properties being appraised.
Chairwoman Regalado inquired about procedures when deals took too long and required second appraisals.
Mr. Martinez-Esteve stated that the modifications would account for that scenario as well.
There being no further questions or comments, the Committee proceeded to vote on the foregoing resolution, as presented.
|
|
|
3N
|
|
| |
251418
|
Resolution
|
Kionne L. McGhee
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |
RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING WAIVER OF COMPETITIVE BIDDING PROCEDURES PURSUANT TO SECTION 5.03(D) OF THE HOME RULE CHARTER AND SECTION 2-8.1(B) OF THE COUNTY CODE BY A TWO-THIRDS VOTE OF THE BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT AND AWARD A NON-COMPETITIVE CONTRACT, CONTRACT NO. BW-10486, WITH GATEWAY TICKETING SYSTEMS, INC. FOR GATEWAY TICKETING SYSTEM MAINTENANCE, SUPPORT AND PAYMENT GATEWAY SERVICES IN THE AMOUNT OF $900,000.00 FOR AN INITIAL FIVE-YEAR TERM AND ONE, TWO-YEAR OPTION TO RENEW FOR THE PARKS, RECREATION AND OPEN SPACES DEPARTMENT; 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(B) OF THE CODE OF MIAMI- DADE COUNTY, FLORIDA AND IMPLEMENTING ORDER 3- 38
|
Forwarded to BCC with a favorable recommendation
Mover: Roberto J. Gonzalez
Seconder: Micky Steinberg
Vote: 4 - 0
Absent: Milian Orbis
|
| |
REPORT:
Chairwoman Regalado inquired whether the project was completely funded by Metro Zoo with reimbursement from the system, rather than impacting other parks funding.
Dr. Carladenise Edwards confirmed the funding arrangement.
There being no questions or comments, the Committee proceeded to vote on the foregoing resolution, as presented.
|
|
|
3O
|
|
| |
251450
|
Resolution
|
Keon Hardemon
Roberto J. Gonzalez
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |
RESOLUTION APPROVING CONCEPTUAL PLANS FOR THE DAN PAUL PLAZA LOCATED AT 400 NE 8TH STREET, MIAMI, FL AS A PUBLICLY-ACCESSIBLE OPEN SPACE WITH COMMUNITY AMENITIES AND AUTHORIZING THE COUNTY MAYOR OR COUNTY MAYOR�S DESIGNEE TO APPLY FOR AND ACCEPT GRANTS TO FUND THE RECONSTRUCTION OF THE DAN PAUL PLAZA, PROVIDED THAT PRIOR BOARD APPROVAL IS SOUGHT FOR MATCHING FUNDS
|
Forwarded to BCC with a favorable recommendation
Mover: Roberto J. Gonzalez
Seconder: Raquel A. Regalado
Vote: 5 - 0
|
| |
REPORT:
Commissioner Hardemon explained that the foregoing late filed item addressed a long-standing Miami Dade County issue involving the Miami Heat, wherein the organization had control over land that was promised years ago to be used as park, but had not been converted as such. He noted that Miami Heat organization, separate and apart from any future lease negotiations with Miami-Dade County, had agreed to allow immediate access to Dan Paul Plaza for use beyond sunrise-sunset hours. Commissioner Hardemon emphasized that this agenda item only facilitated the conversation for the utilization of the space and had no current budgetary effect.
Chairwoman Regalado expressed her support for Commissioner Hardemon's assessment of the project and emphasized the necessity of implementing a quasi-permitting system that required the administration to disclose filing timelines for agenda items, highlighting the importance of a thorough review which impacts the decision-making process.
Commissioner Gonzalez requested to be listed as a co-sponsor.
Mr. Tony Recio, Attorney for Miami Heat, spoke in support of the item and reiterated that this was a joint venture with the Miami Heat to advance conversations for joint use of the parcel space.
There being no further questions or comments, the Committee proceeded to vote on the foregoing resolution, as presented.
Chairwoman Regalado acknowledged Commissioner Hardemon�s request that the foregoing resolution be advanced to the July 16, 2025 Board meeting.
|
|
|
4
|
COUNTY MAYOR
|
| |
|
5
|
COUNTY ATTORNEY
|
| |
|
6
|
CLERK OF THE BOARD
|
| |
|
7
|
REPORT(S)
|
| |
|
8
|
ADJOURNMENT
|
| |
| |
REPORT:
There being no further business to come before the Appropriations Committee, the meeting was adjourned at 1:11 pm.
|
|
|
| 8/7/2026 |
|
|
|
Agenda Key: 5301 |