03-01-99r'
South Miami Community Redevelopment. Agency
Meeting Agenda
March 1, 1999
Location: 6130 Sunset Drive, South Miami, FL
Time: 7:30 PM ze Its"
Call to Order
A. Roll Call
B. Approval of Minutes M � 0 � _ C-)
C. Project Updates:
• Trolley Update - Route changes
• Paint -up- Fix -up Project
• Valet Parking — City lot on 70'�' St.
D. Administrative Issues
Mir
i25 C°, 7.44 o- �-�•�'��7y2.
• Status Report on CRA Interlocal Agreement
• Training for Advisory Board and New CRA Board Members
• Semi - annual meeting/public workshop (April)
(A mid -year report -and opportunity for public input)
• Field Trip (to neighboring cities with active CRNs)
E. Public Comments
F. Staff Comments
G. General Comments from CRA Board
H. Adjournment
T City of. South Miami
DRAFT
2 Community Redevelopment Agency Minutes
3 January 19, 1999
4
5 The Community Redevelopment Agency of the City of South Miami met
6 in regular session on Tuesday, January 19, 1999, beginning at 6 :15 p.m., in the
7 City Commission Chambers, 6130 Sunset Drive. The following members of the
8 Agency were present, Chairperson Julio Robaina, Vice Chairperson Armando
9 Oliveros, Jr., Members Horace G. Feliu, David D. Bethel, Rubystine Anderson
10 and James Bowman. With Member Mary Scott Russell arriving at
11 approximately 6:30 p.m.
12
13 Also in attendance were CRA Director Diana Morris, CRA Consultant Don
14 Delaney, CRA Attorney John Dellagloria and CRA Secretary Ronetta Taylor.
15
16 Approval of Minutes of December 15, 1999.
17 Moved by Commissioner Bethel, seconded by Commissioner Bowman to
18 approve the minutes as presented.
19
20 There being no discussion the motion passed by a 6 -0 vote.
21
22 Member Bethel: Yea
23 Member Bowman: Yea
24 Member Feliu: Yea
25 Member Anderson: Yea
26 Vice Chairperson Oliveros: Yea
27 Member Russell: Not present
28 Chairperson Robaina: Yea
29
30 Mr. Delaney advised the Agency members that Mr: Tom Cooper and Mr.
31 Victor. Dover representing the only bidder for the Miami -Dade Metro Rail
32 Station Proposal were present to make a preliminary conceptual presentation.
33 He said this project is estimated to be between 18 and 20 Million dollars. He
34 said the Agency isn't required to take any action on this issue tonight.
35
36 Mr. Dover said his group looked at several key objectives one of which
37 was to transform the Metro -Rail Station area to better connect to the
38 surrounding neighborhood; to increase the ridership. at the South Miami Metro -
39 Rail Station as an alternate means of transportation; and to secure ways that
40 will over the long term bring in income. He related that Miami -Dade County
41 pointed ,out two things in their RFP, first that there was a triangular piece of
42 property in front of the garage on SW 591" which was a special additional
Community Redevelopment Agency
Minutes — January 19,1999
I opportunity, and the triangular portion on the northwest side of the garage is
2 Phase ,2 of the garage project. This area is structured so that more floors could
3 be added in the future.
4
5 Mr. Dover pointed out three components of their RFP; 1) to reorganize
6 the garage and circulation around and within the garage. This would make
7 the triangle area large enough to do a real build onto; allow them to take the
8 leftover yard south of the garage and transform that station to a real proper
9 neighborhood square. 2) along 59th Place a thin layer of buildings would be
10 added onto the garage which would have people occupying that building
11 around clock. This would create a greater sense of safety and put a better
12 finish on the exterior of the building; 3) He said the idea is to have two stories of
13 either residential or small businesses attached to the garage. This could be
14 added without reducing parking spaces.
15
16 Mr. Dover said once the image of the garage is transformed it would
17 restore nobility to the adjacent properties by making them available for
18 redevelopment. He said this development would be making this area
19 pedestrian friendly. He also indicated that an apartment complex with a
20 courtyard would be added to the top of the garage. He said this concept is
21 based on the City's Hometown. Plan and the traditional neighborhood.
22
23 Mr. Dover related that his company submitted the only proposal for this
'24 project. They are now awaiting a response from for Miami -Dade County.
25
26 Chairperson Robaina opined this project could be the rebirth of the CRA
27 area. He commended Mr. Dover and partners for putting this project forward.
28 He conveyed his support of this concept and indicated that the name
29 Hometown Station was a wonderful idea.
30
31 Vice Chairperson Oliveros asked when is Metro Dade County expected
32. to respond.
33
34 The individual responding to Vice Chairperson Oliveros' question was not
35 speaking into the microphone therefore the response was inaudible.
36
37 Mr. Dover said the ultimate project that is approved will be one that
38 Miami -Dade County as well as the federal administration will also review and
39 sign off on the project. The winning project will be one that has South Miami's
40 support. He said his organization's packet included an enthusiastic letter from
41 the South Miami Homeowners Association.
42
Community Redevelopment Agency 2
Minutes - January 19. 1999
I Vice Chairperson Qiiveros inquired about South Miami's responsibility and
2 liabilities or participation in this project.
3
4 Mr. Dover said from the point of review and approval the physical
5 concept although this project sets on land that is under Miami -Dade County's
6 jurisdiction zoning regulations the County would be asking the City of South
7 Miami to sign off on the zoning. He said his organization had recommending
8 the project by adding the liner building and in order to do that would, mean
9 stepping over the line into South Miami land where South Miami has jurisdiction
10 on the zoning. He said there would be meetings with the City's CRA staff and.
11. representatives from his company to discuss ways the CRA can be involved.
12
13 Member Bowman asked if the general public would be privileged to
14 review this project.
15
16 Mr. Dover indicated that his organization is willing to keep everyone up
17 to date as this project evolves.
18
19 Chairperson Robaina informed Member Bowman that this matter would
20 be considered first by the CRA Board then forwarded to, the City Commission
21 for formal presentation. He said there would be plenty of opportunity for
22 everyone's input.
23
24 Mr. Cooper indicated that preliminary discussions have already been
25 had with Reverend Green who has offered St. John A.M.E. Church as a forum
26 for discussion on the project.
27
28 Chairperson Robaina inquired as to what the city could do to expedite
29 the process.
30
31 Mr. Delaney said one of the things that would be helpful if the Board
32 elects to do so is a letter of support for the concept of the project. This is not
33 committing any financial resources or staff resources. He opined that this
34 project could not happen without the CRA's involvement.
35
36 Chairperson Robaina asked if a vote was needed tonight to move this
37 process forward.
38
39 Mr. Delaney said a general support for this conceptual project would be .
40 sufficient. This letter would not have anything legally binding on the CRA's
41 part.
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Community Redevelopment Agency 3
Minutes - January 19, 1999
I Member Feliu opined this is a golden opportunity: that would allow the
2 . Wounded Healer, Inc., program to be fully utilized in this project.
3
4 Member Bethel conveyed that this is a great project. He shared that
5 he'd spoken with Mr. Cooper about Reverend Green and the Wounded
6 Healers, Inc. He said this project would really bring a lot of jobs into the
7 community. He asked to whom should the support'letters be written.
8
9 Mr. Delaney said the CRA staff would work jointly with this team and send
10 the letters to the Miami -Dade County Commission, the Metro Dade Transit
11 District and the key review. committee members as well as the federal
12 agencies that would be involved.
13
14 Member Feliu related that this is a perfect example of the TODD District
15 at its best. He commended this company for this. conceptual project and
16 voiced his support of this endeavor.
17
18 Chairperson Robaina asked that administration go forward with writing
19 the support letter.
20
21 Member Russell voiced her support for the letter of support. She said
22 there are two issues that this project brings to mind; 1) the Metro Rail parking
23 garage spaces are being used for other businesses across US 1. Therefore
24 some spaces are lost. 2) The Metro rail - parking garage has all of a sudden
25 become the City's savior in regards to the Shops At Sunset Place. - She said
26 that she was concerned about the amount of parking spaces that would be
27 lost with this garage being developed further. She asked that everyone keep
28 those thoughts in mind as this project moves forward.
29
30 Member Russell indicated that there is a 5 Million - dollar figure as a CRA
31 commitment to this project. She said this is a huge portion of funding for the
32 project.
33
34 Chairperson Robaina told Member Russell that the numbers would
35 change. The 5 Million dollars was an initial amount that was brought forward.
36 He said the CRA hasn't committed to any amount of funding. This
37 organization's initiative is to seek additional fund.
38
39 Member Feliu asked if Miami -Dade County would be making a financial
40, commitment to this project.
41
42 Chairperson thanked Mr. Dover and his group for their presentation.
Community Redevelopment Agency 4
Minutes - January 19, 1999
1
2 CRA Director Morris recounted that Mr. Delaney was directed by the
3 CRA Board to do a thorough review of the proposals for funding for the Multi -
4 purpose center. This money would be used as match for the Safe
5 Neighborhood Parks funds already allocated.
6
7 Mr. Delaney recounted approximately sixty days prior the CRA Board
8 directed him to assist the City in its effort to secure private funding for the
9 purposed Multi- purpose center. His responsibility was to solicit new proposals
10 from Bank Atlantic and First National Bank of South Miami for a construction
11 loan that would cost 1.8 Million Dollars. The previous offers made by these two
12 institutions early last year had expired. The new offers from First National Bank
13 of South Miami and Bank Atlantic were received. He said that he'd tried to
14 highlight the breakdown of the two, proposals. The recommendation is that
15 the city accepts First National Bank, of South Miami's offer as the initial point
16 for negotiations. If this Board decides to do so it does not take action except
17 to send it forward to the City Commission. The next step would be to send
18 both proposals forward to the City Manager for final negotiations and
19 approval. He conveyed his assistance to the City Manager if the need arises.
20 This information would also be forwarded to the City Attorney's office for legal
21 issues. This matter would then go to the City Commission for final approval.
22
23 Vice Chairperson Oliveros voiced his support of First National Bank of
24 South Miami. He said that he was uncomfortable with the balloon status of
25 the mortgage and the loan to value ratio. If First National Bank reconsider
26 these things and revamp them1n a certain way that would more amenable to
27 the City Commission he would suggest going with First National.
28
29 Chairperson Robaina concurred with Vice Chairperson Oliveros'
30 statement.
31
32 Member Russell conveyed her support of .First National Bank of South
33 Miami provided an agreement can be reached.
34
35 Member Anderson voiced her agreement with the recommendation for
36 First National Bank.
37
38 Member Bowman voiced his support of this recommendation.
39
40 Member Bethel too voiced his agreement of this recommendation.
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Community Redevelopment Agency 5
Minutes- January 19, 1999
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Mr. Delaney related that today at 3;30 p.m. was the deadline for all
RFP's and RFQ's to be submitted to the CRA staff. Only one proposal from the
Simon Group and Comras Company was received. There were letters sent
from SPG Phase One LTD, which he read into the record. He recounted about
a month ago an extension was requested of this Board and was granted. He
said staff had received letters today from the other' interested parties. He read
into the record "you are aware that we signed up . as one of the potential
bidders for the RFP and RFQ No 98 -1001 for the second City parking lot. We
were set to submit our proposal with check in hand. January 18, 1999 we had
done a great deal of research and planning on the project we were to submit.
The past week we were hit with a bombshell. We. were informed the City's
Charter restricts the lease of City. property to thirty years. This, could wreck
havoc with our proposal for the RFP. None of the City Commissioners, the
Mayor or any other city officials were aware of this Charter restriction nor were
we. Consequently many new factors must be taken into consideration.
Design. changes reworking of numbers for many of the financial institutions to
see if we can do the loan to qualify with this time frame and aimless other
factors. With the above in mind, we strongly urge the South Miami Community
Redevelopment Agency to extend the submittal time to eight to ten weeks to
work our the proposal for the RFP. Not to do so would be both unfair to the
City and all other companies who would be bidding on this project."
Member Russell commented that she'd not spoken to Mr. Elias about this
issue. She asked if any of the other Commissioners had spoken with Mr. Elias.
Member Feliu shared that Mr. Elias had spoken to him about'this.
Chairperson Robaina indicated that Mr. Elias had also spoken to him
about this issue. He said that he'd .like to extend the deadline as well as open
the entire bidding process up again.
Mr. Delaney said the Charter's provision of thirty years is not an actual
problem.
Chairperson Robaina said the City was down to one proposal. He said
that since new things are being discovered there have been several other
companies expressing an interest in this RFP and RFQ. He suggested opening
the entire process up for bidding.
Vice Chairperson Oliveros asked for Attorney Dellagloria's opinion on this
matter.
Community Redevelopment Agency 6
Minutes - January 19, 1999 ,
I Attorney Dellagloria said that he'd not had an opportunity to review Mr..
2 Elias' letter except during the course of the meeting. He concurred with Mr.
3 Delaney's comment and voiced that he didn't believe that the provision in the
4 Charter based on the way the RFP went out is a legitimate reason not to have
5 submitted a proposal. He said at this moment the City has exactly one person
6 to properly file a response to the RFQ. The Board's two options would be to; 1)
7 review that proposal;. and 2) come back at the next meeting as to whether
8. they wanted to go forward with negotiation or at the next meeting to not
9 make that recommendation and at that time any and all proposals received
10 can be rejected. He voiced his opinion that the Board did not have the
11 option to extend the time frame based on the letters received today.
12
13 Chairperson Robaina said that once the proposal is presented would the
14 Board still have the option to not accept it.
15
16 Attorney Dellagloria indicated that staff hasn't reviewed the proposal
17 and made any evaluation of the proposal.
18
19 Chairperson' Robaina asked that his colleagues consider not cutting the
20 City short. He said there are other potential bidders that want to have an
21 opportunity to do something in the City. He emphasized that the City is in a
22 position where it has an opportunity to review this process again.
23
24 Vice Chairperson Oliveros asked Chairperson Robaina to clarify his
25 statement.
26
27 Chairperson Robaina related that he wanted administration to review
28 this process again and when a recommendation is -made he wanted everyone
29 to at least be'open minded as to whether or not there is a better, proposal.
30
31 Vice Chairperson Oliveros asked if the City didn't move forward with this
32 proposal would there be any legal ramifications.
33
34 Attorney Dellagloria related that it was incumbent upon the Community
35 Redevelopment Agency to look at the proposal received. He said at this point
36 all there is is an' envelope that hasn't been opened and evaluated. He said at.
37 the next CRA meeting staff' would 'provide this evaluation with a
38 recommendation to either go forward or negotiate with the proposal or to
39 reject all proposals received and initiates a new process.
40
41 Chairperson Robaina conveyed that he'd rather not open the proposal.
42
Community Redevelopment Agency 7
Minutes - January 19, 1999
1 Attorney . Dellagloria opined the procedure he'd outlined is the only
2 legal prudent posture to take as to whether the CRA wanted to reject or
3` accept. the proposal.
4
5 Mr. Delaney concurred with Attorney Dellagloria in that proper respect
6 to the one that did follow the rules. He conveyed assurance that the CRA
7 members would be opened minded. when this issue is presented with a
8 recommendation as to whether or not its even doable. He conveyed that
9 there is a lot of pressure.on Chairperson Robaina, because he wants to see
10 things happen and he knows there are lot of other major developers
11 interested. He said that this is a policy decision that has to be made by the
12 Board.
13
14 Chairperson Robaina conveyed his feeling of being . in a catch 22
15 situation.
16
17 Vice. Chairperson Oliveros related that there seems to be an inside
18 trading problem information from other people who are not involved in this
19 matter who they may think are better. He emphasized that this isn't legal. He
20 stressed that this proposal met the qualifications.
21
22 Member Feliu voiced his understanding that the Comras Group has
23 obtained properties adjacent to the City's property. He said the City's
24 property would need to have other properties added to make this whole thing
25 work. He said it is also his understanding that SPG Phase One may also have
26 identified some properties in that general vicinity that they may be able to
27 lease or acquire. He asked what would happen if all three interested groups
28 worked together to provide the City with the best development.
29
30 Vice Chairperson Oliveros commented that that decision would be up
31 to the qualified party.
32
33 Member Feliu conveyed his understanding of the process. He opined
34 that perhaps with all three firms working together they would be able come up'
35 with a fantastic project for the community.
36
37 Mr. Delaney shared that Member .FeliWs suggestion is exactly what the
38 respondent was charged to do.
39
40 Chairperson Robaina asked that administration move forward with what
41 was presented.
42
Community Redevelopment Agency 8
Minutes - January 19. 1999
I Mr. Delaney said whatever firm is selected certain actions would have
2 to be accomplished including a contract and if they fail to perform the
3 Commission would have the right to step away from the contract, and any
4 rights that they might have.
5
6 Attorney Dellagloria said that he was only suggesting that the proposal
7 be opened reviewed and reports back to the CRA the best type of provisions.
8
9 Chairperson Robaina said that everybody wanted to see this project
10 done and not have somebody getting the contract and sitting on the piece of .
11 property. He invited Reverend Whipple, Pastor of Mt. Nebo Baptist Church to
12 come forward.
13
14 Mr. Delaney recounted, a few months back the City Commission in trying
15 to make sure that, the citizens affected with new redevelopment that was
16 done in the redevelopment area had forwarded the Mt. Nebo issue to the
17 CRA in an effort to gain input. Now, that the Commission is still in the process
18 of appointing an advisory board they didn't want to do anything to hold up
19 the process that Mt. Nebo is going through. He said that all the CRA members
20 had to do at tonight's meeting is by a simple majority forward this issue back to
21 the City Commission. He conveyed that Mt. Nebo need to understand that
22 the CRA Board did not have the authority to say "yes" or "no'.' but only has
23 recommending authority.
24
25 Reverend Whipple said that his concern was whether or not the process
26 would put his project on. hold.
27
28 Mr. Delaney said that if a majority of the Board members vote to send
29 this matter to the Commission' Reverend Whipple would not longer have to
30 deal with the CRA or CRA Advisory Board process. He reasoned the only
31 reason this project was forwarded through the CRA process is because they
32 wanted the community to have a chance to take a, look at the project.
33
34 Member Russell said that in addition, the CRA Board needed to establish
35 a process with respect to the CRA. She thanked Reverend Whipple for his
36 patience.
37
38 Manager Scurr recounted in 1997 the City Commission approved a
39 Community Overlay District. This legislation took most of the churches in the
40 City and created a special zoning district. This enabled the churches to do a
41 number of non - traditional church things within that area (e.g. daycare centers,
42 etc.) A number of churches have acquired 'through Community
Community Redevelopment Agency 9
Minutes - January 19, 1999
I Development Corporations a private non- profit arm, have acquired land
2 immediately adjacent to their church. Mt. Nebo has acquired acting through
3 Destiny two parcels, one to north and east of their church. St. John has
4 acquired a parcel across the street from.their church. Mt. Nebo could not put
5 a daycare on the parcel they just acquired because the zoning doesn't allow
6 for it. This is a change in the Land Development Code that would place the
7 parcels acquired into the Overlay Code. He said when the CRA was set up it
8 was felt that it is important to get the input from the CRA since this particular
9 application is in the CRA District. If the CRA Board approves this it would then
10 go forward to the City Commission tonight. The City Commission would take
11 final action on the Land Development Code. The applicant would then come
12 forward with a Special Exception request for this specific use.
13
14 By acclamation this item was forwarded to the City Commission.
15
16 Reverend Whipple indicated that Mt. Nebo Baptist Church was one of
17 the most active churches in the community and they wanted to be included in
18 the CRA process.
19
20 Chairperson Robaina emphasized that there was no money in the CRA
21 account at present. The money would start coming in once the Shops At.
22 Sunset Place Ad Valorem taxes are collected. He asked that Reverend
23 Whipple meet with CRA staff to discuss his issues.
24
25 Member Russell indicated that she'd like to sit in on this meeting as well.
26
27 CRA Director Morris related that the proposal she'd provided the CRA
28 Board members is for a nineteen- passenger trolley. The cost of operation for
29 two years is $220,000.00. She said that late Friday afternoon she'd received an
30 alternate proposal from the same company for a thirty- three - passenger trolley.
31 The difference in the' cost would be $166.00, per month. She said this price
32 would still be under the current budgeted amount.
33
34 Member Russell asked if the remaining terms were the same.
35
36 CRA Director Morris indicated that they were.
37
38 Vice Chairperson Oliveros commented that the Commission had
39 approved a prior contract subsequently it didn't work out. He inquired as to
40 whether or not this particular contract was nor or less expensive.
41
Community Redevelopment, Agency 10
Minutes - January 19, 1999.
I CRA Director Morris said this contract was less expensive. She related
2 that this contract equates to $33.00 per hour whereas the other contract was
3 $45.00 per hour.
4
5 Mr. Delaney acknowledged Vice Chairperson Oliveros' contribution in
6 this process.
7
8 Mr. Robena, the trolley contractor appeared before the City
9 Commission appeared before the CRA Board to express his pleasure with
10 having the opportunity to work with the City of South Miami.
11
12 Attorney Dellagloria said a resolution was on the City Commission
13 agenda for consideration of this service. He said under Miami -Dade County's
14 provisions, the agreement has to be between the City and the vendor. The
15 Interlocal Agreement has to be between Miami -Dade County and the City.
16 He said the document is set up so that there can be an assignment to the CRA.
17 The resolution allows the City Manager and City Attorney to negotiate the final
18 terms of the agreement.
19
20 CRA Director Morris related that a mini -bus would. probably be used for
21 the first couple of days with the trolley vehicle arriving on next Wednesday.
22
23 Attorney Dellagloria said that there was a CRA resolution regarding this
24 item and asked that formal action be taken on that.
25
26 Chairperson Robaina asked that the remaining items be moved to the
27 next CRA Agenda.
28
29 Mr. Delaney suggested having the CRA meeting start at 6:00 p.m.,
30 instead of 6:30 p.m. because of the number of issues for discussion purposes.
31 .
32 Member Russell commented that because of all the items on the table
33 the scheduled time before the City Commission meeting is not sufficient. She
34 said that the CRA meeting should be moved to another date certain.
35
36 Chairperson Robaina conveyed his concurrence with Member Russell's
37 suggestion.
38'
39 Attorney Dellagloria pointed out that the North Miami City Commission
40 meetings were held on the second and fourth Tuesday. He related that his
41 schedule would permit him to be present for the CRA meeting either on the
42 first Tuesdays or an alternate date.
Community Redevelopment Agency 1 j
Minutes - January 19, 1999
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Moved by Chairperson Robaina, seconded by Member Russell the
approved this item.
There being no discussion, the motion passed by a 7 -0 vote.
Member Bethel:
Yea
Member Bowman:
Yea
Member Feliu:
Yea
Member Russell:
Yea
Member Anderson:
Yea
Vice Chairperson Oliveros:
Yea
Chairperson Robaina:
Yea
Mr. Delaney asked the CRA Board members to not let the letter that was
received from Mr. Al Elias concern them that they are limited to thirty -years on
the RFP Proposal from the CRA. He related that he has twenty ways that he
could think of to where the CRA is not restricted.
There being no other business to come before this Board, the meeting
adjourned at 7:28 p.m.
Attest
Secretary
Community Redevelopment Agency
Minutes - January 19, 1999
Approved
12
Chairperson
City of South Miami
Community Redevelopment Agency Minutes
February 16, 1998
The South Miami Community Redevelopment Agency met in regular
session on Tuesday, February 16, 1999 beginning at 6:30 p.m., in the City
Commission .Chambers, 6130 Sunset Drive. The following members of the Board
were present, Chairperson Julio Robaina, Vice Chairperson Armando Oliveros,
Jr., Board Members Mary Scott Russell, Rubystine Anderson, Horace G. Feliu,
James Bowman and David D. Bethel.
Also in attendance were CRA Director Diana Morris, CRA Consultant Don
Delaney, CRA Attorney John Dellagloria and CRA Secretary Ronetta Taylor.
Approval of Minutes
Moved by Commissioner Russell, seconded by Vice Mayor Oliveros to
defer the approval of the minutes until the next meeting.
There being no discussion, the motion passed by a 7 -0 vote.
Vice Chairperson Oliveros: Yea
Member Anderson:
Member Russell:
Member Feliu:
Member Bowman:
Member Bethel:
Chairperson Robaina:
Project Updates
Yea
Yea
Yea
Yea
Yea
Yea
CRA Director Morris told the Agency members the Comras Company and
Simon Properties Group -would be making a presentation at tonight's meeting
on the proposed development of the city's parking lot on 581h Avenue and 715+
Street.
Mr. Michael Comras a representative. from. the Comras Company
appeared before the City Commission and presented a visual conceptual idea
of what they have in mind for the proposal as it relates to the surrounding areas.
The conceptual proposal was presented to each Agency member and is a pant
of the official record. This proposed development has one level of commercial
with the appearance of a two level commercial facade on the garage. He
said there would be approximately 20 - 25 thousand square feet.
Member Russell asked if the 20 -25 square feet would be of retail space..
Mr. Comras replied "yes ".
Member Feliu inquired about the surplus parking calculations.
Mr. Comras related that with 25,000 feet a typical ratio would be
approximately 125 spaces. He said the drawing has somewhere in an excess of
500 spaces that would allow about 375 to 400 surplus spaces. He opined that
the project would take somewhere between three to six months to design and
permit: The construction could be completed between eight and twelve
months. He voiced his assurance that this project when completed with ease
the traffic flow in this area. He said the proposal also maintains twenty -five
spaces that would be needed spaces and the revenue therefrom would
remain with the City [approximately $750,000).
Mr. Tom Schneider said the maneuvering range that was proposed in this
plan as improvements is somewhere in the range'of $50,000.00. The site work to
make these improvements is estimated in the range of $100,000.00. He opined
the parking garage will give people that type of experience but the parking
meters would allow for more convenience.
Vice Chairperson Oliveros inquired as to how many spaces were currently
in this location.
Mr. Comras replied that there were currently forty -four spaces.
Vice Chairperson Oliveros asked subsequent to the development how
many spaces would there be.
Mr. Schneider said approximately twenty -five spaces would be left. He
said the ground floor of the parking garage would be on city property and
approximately twenty -five parking meters would be maintained there.
Member Feliu commented. that basically the city's lot would be used to
reconfigure 71 st Street and to allow access to a ramp.
Mr. Comras replied "yes."
Member Russell asked if the City was going into a joint partnership with this
group on this project. She asked about the legal ramifications of this.
2
Mr. Delaney said that the Agency hasn't selected the proposal. He said
that he would be recommending that the City Commission make its choice and
then administration begin negotiations. He said that he would provide a time
frame for them to work in. Whatever partnership arrangement is agreed upon it
has to finalize by the CRA Board and the City Commission.
Member Russell asked what was going to happen with. the lost of parking
spaces during the time that the construction is occurring. She asked if the
developer would be paying the City for the lost revenue or is this something that
would be decided.
Mr. Schneider said the design and permitting must be kept separate from
the constructions. He opined. that they could probably accomplish the
construction in ten months of less. Disruption on site would be more in the range
of ten months.
Member Russell commented that she didn't want to see the city giving
away land and not realizing the full value to make the parking more sufficient:
Chairperson Robaina said that when the proposal is brought forward
there are a couple of things that are missing on the design especially the
provisions for the pedestrian overpass. He related that Miami -Dade County is
proposing to improve the Metro -rail station. In addition I to that the City is
requesting 3 Million Dollars to build the pedestrian overpass. He said that he'd
rather get all of the constructions -done at the same time rather than doing it in
stages. He emphasized the importance of moving expeditiously on all three
projects.
Member Feliu shared that. he'd met with the Red Sunset Merchants
regarding the pedestrian overpass. A suggestion was made to allow for the
overpass to connect with Sunset Drive so that the people are motivated to walk
all along the small shops leading to the Shops At Sunset Place. He opined that
the location of the overpass should be considered.
Mr. Delaney said the purpose of the meeting tonight is to follow the
procedures the Agency set forward from the offering document the RFP and
RFQ. He related that In that document administration was to take the lead
group, which he was recommending that the Agency move forward with a
recommendation to the City. Commission to select the group to begin
negotiations. The group would have an opportunity to speak for approximately
in a preliminary discussion, which was just accomplished. The group was
3
supposed to make sure that- they exceeded all the threshold requirements of
the offering document, which they have done. The group had to give the City
a $10,000.00 review fee, which they have done. He recommended that the
CRA Agency send this issue forward to the City Commission. As the City
Commission a decision should be made as to whether a further presentation is
needed. If this group is selected they will issue a check to the CRA for
$15,000.00 to continue to.cover the cost. A negotiation team has already been
appointed by the City Manager. After the City Commission makes that decision
and this group issues the $15,000.00 and 'negotiations are complete a phase
one environmental audit of the city's site. Two appraisals of the city property
would be conducted. The goal is to have a preliminary agreement and
development scope in ninety (90) days. The .goal would be that ninety days
after the March 1St date administration would be able to come back to this
public body with a report as to how much had been accomplished.
Chairperson Robaina conveyed his concurrence with Mr. Delaney's
remarks. He said that he would make sure there is another presentation done
by this group. at a regular City Commission meeting. He asked that the drop -
dead clause be included in the negotiations. He asked if this group would
have to come back to the Commission within. ninety (90) days with proof that
they have secured the necessary properties to build this project.
Mr. Delaney said appropriate documentation to show that they have
control of those properties is needed.
Chairperson Robaina related that when the SHOPS went, through the
process of acquiring the merchants that they lease space they did a every good
job of being considerate of competitiveness.
Member Russell asked if there were not three bids received for this project.
Mr. Delaney said there were three bids pertaining to the pre-proposal
conference. He said this is the first time that the City and the CRA had done the
proposal this way. If the bidder didn't come up with $10,000.00 for a Review
Bond they didn't get to play the game. That way the City and.the CRA didn't
waste time and public money. The money already received hasn't been spent
and if this group is selected as the team to begin negotiating with on March 2nd
they would pay another $15,000.00. This type of money keeps people from just
flooding the City with proposals but do not .have the creditability and weren't
serious enough., In addition to be able to be selected'and recommended by
the CRA Consultant the group that's to be successful had to already have some
of the properties under option. He opined ithe money and the fact that they
have acquired the properties made the other two pre- bidders to not be as
serious and to not move forward.
There being no further discussion, the motion passed by a 7 -0 vote.
Vice Chairperson Oliveros: Yea
Member Russell:
Yea
Member Anderson:
Yea
Member Bowman:
Yea
Member Feliu:
Yea
Member. Bethel:
Yea
Chairperson Robaina:
Yea
Mr. Delaney . reiterated that this item would be on the March 2nd City
Commission Agenda at that time another presentation would be made.
Pedestrian Overpass
Mr. Delaney related that this is a carry over from last months agenda and
not a project that he'd been assigned to. and from his understanding a
engineering firm would be doing the work. He reiterated that this is 'not ' his
project but he's had some discussion with the Commission and thought that he
would be working on this item therefore he'd done some preliminary work which
would hopefully be helpful.
Mr. Delaney provided visuals of different pedestrian overpass structures
used in other municipalities. He described one of the pedestrian overpasses,
which he was recommending as something that. would be appropriate for
South Miami as two stories high with a retail component to generate revenue.
He recommended that the city could find a way to make the pedestrian
overpass functional and usable.
Member Feliu conveyed his disagreement with this type of pedestrian
overpass.
Mr. Delaney said that the architectural design.of the pedestrian overpass
would be'up the Commission to decide on.
Member Feliu said this would .be adding to much activity especially with
the Shops At Sunset Place.
5
Mr. Delaney reiterated that the Commission could select whatever'
architectural design it , chose. He described another pedestrian overpass as
being three levels high with an athletic club.' He related that when people
walk from one side of the street to the other they could see the patrons of the
health club so it gives a sense of safety.
Member Russell inquired about the funding for a health club.
Mr. Delaney said because this wasn't his project he did not have an
answer to that question. He related that Tallahassee would, be more than
interested in funding an innovate project that brought in its own revenue rather
than just building a connection. He said if the City was going .to propose a
project that would generate revenue, create jobs and occupational license it
might have a better chance of getting funded. He said that he'd done this
project two months prior and if it would be helpful to the engineering firm he'd
leave the photographs in the file for that purpose.
CRA Director Morris indicated that there has been some discussion about
improving Marshall Williamson Park. To do these improvements the City
requested $165,000.00 but was allocated $50,000.00. She related that she'd
been informed that funds from other cities were being reallocated and most
likely the City would get an additional amount.
Member Russell inquired as to how soon the improvements would start at
Marshall Williamson Park.
CRA Director Morris said that as soon as a contract has been negotiated it
would be brought to the City Commission for consideration. She conveyed
that public meetings would be held to get input regarding the kinds of
improvements and activities that should take place there.
Chairperson Robaina conveyed that he'd like to have the workshops
take place at the Senior Citizens Center. He said that he wanted the public
input from the residents living in the vicinity of Marshall Williamson Park.
CRA Director updated the CRA Board on the post office improvements.
The postal representatives have projected approximately $25,000.00 for this
project. The landscape plan is complete and will be. put out. for bid within the
next couple of weeks with anticipation that this project would be completed
within the next two to three months. The City property next door to the post
office is also being improved so that it would have a better appearance.
P
Member Anderson asked about the building, just west of the post office
and what was it being used for.
Mr. Delaney said that the city use to lease this building but no longer. It is
in private ownership and it isn't certain there is a tenant presently occupying the
building.
Chairperson Robaina said that there has been interest shown in the City's
property located next to the post office by a number of valet. parking
companies. He asked if the CRA would be able to utilize this property for that
purpose.
Mr. Delaney said that something could be placed on the next agenda 'to
address this issue.
Attorney Dellagloria related that because the City owns the property, the
City and the CRA would have to enter into an arrangement if they wanted
those funds to come in to the CRA.
CRA Director Morris reported on the Interlocal Agreement between the
City of South Miami and Miami -Dade County for transportation services.
Attorney Dellagloria said in addition to the overall Interlocal agreement
between the City and. Miami -Dade County regarding when the city wanted to
have the trolley services Miami -Dade County had stated that an Interlocal
Agreement had to be executed between Miami -Dade County and the City
under the Miami -Dade County Code. The Interlocal. Agreement has been
negotiated with the help of Attorney Gallop and the CRA staff who met. with
the Miami -Dade County staff. He said this is a very standard document that is
used by other municipalities. He said this Interlocal Agreement would go to the
City Commission and Miami -Dade County for approval. He suggested having
this item on the next agenda.
Interlocal Agreement
Mr. Delaney reported that staff had made all of the changes to the
Interlocal Agreement and forwarded them back to Miami -Dade County staff.
He related that Miami -Dade County wanted control, to make decisions about
the CRA budget as it relates to all types of revenue not just TIFF. He said the
decision is now in Miami -Dade County's hands.
7
CRA Director Morris said the primary issue as staff sees it is the definition of
the TIFF and the fact that Miami -Dade County wants to approve every issue.
Mr. Delaney conveyed that he didn't want to back down on this issue.
He related that the CRA has raised over a quarter of a million dollars within four
to five months that Miami -Dade County didn't have anything to do with. He
opined that the CRA should make the decision on how these funds are spent.
Chairperson Robaina related that the CRA Board had made it very clear
that it did not Miami -Dade County dictating how the funds would be spent.
CRA Director Morris related that the TIFF revenue was all together another
issue.
Chairperson Robaina opined that this is unfair to put so many restrictions
on the CRA. He asked that staff continues with the negotiations and advice
whether or not the City. Commission needed to get involved.. He emphasized
the importance of having the, Interlocal Agreement completed. He
commented that South Miami is the only municipal with this restriction.
Mr. Delaney said this is almost like being penalized for receiving general
and private funds.
Member Russell asked if the private funds was in a separate account.
Mr. Delaney said they were in a non -TIFF account. He said that Miami -
Dade County was trying to control the city's private and TIFF funding through
the Interlocal Agreement.
Member Russell emphasized the importance of working out a solution.
Draft By -laws
Attorney Dellagloria related that several meetings prior the CRA Board
indicated that .a CRA Advisory Board would be in order. He said that he'd
drafted standard by -laws. He details some,of the pertinent components of the
by -laws.
Member Russell indicated that on Section 10 and asked 258 hours was 48
hours. She further asked that the CRA Board be included notified as well as
providing proper. publication. For clarification, the Secretary would be the
Director and not the City Clerk.
Mr. Dellagloria replied "correct."
Chairperson related that this package was provided to the Board
members over the weekend for review. He said that he didn't have any
problems with the by -laws.
Moved by Member Russell, seconded by Member Feliu to amend Section
10 of I the by -laws to notification are sent to the CRA Advisory Board and CRA
Board within forty -eight hours before the time set.
There being no further discussion on the amendment the motion passed
by a 7 -0 vote.
Vice Chairperson Oliveros:
Yea
Member Anderson:
Yea
Member Russell:
Yea
Member Bethel:
Yea
Member Bowman:
Yea
Member Feliu:
Yea
Chairperson Robaina:
Yea
There being no further discussion on the by -laws in general the motion
passed by a 7 -0 vote.
Member Bethel:
Yea
Member Bowman:
Yea
Member Feliu:
Yea
Member Russell:.
Yea
Member Anderson:
Yea
Vice Chairperson Oliveros:
Yea
Chairperson Robaina:
Yea
Attorney Dellagloria said there was a resolution on the Commission
Agenda adopting the guidelines for the CRA Advisory Board.
Member Bowman inquired about the trolley service route. He said that he
was under the impression that this trolley would have a route in the CRA area.
CRA Director Morris said at this point they are trying to determine what the
best route is. One consideration is having a different route during the daytime
hours and shortening the route at night. The route should be, kept at no more
9
than twenty minutes because people will not. use it if it takes more than amount
of time.
Mr. Delaney said that the Senior Citizen Center would be added to the
trolley stop.
Chairperson Robaina asked if the next Commission meeting iron out some
of these suggestions.
Member Feliu conveyed ,that this Body sets the policy and there was no
reason why it should be started now.
Member Russell suggested having trolley service provided on Sunday.
There being no further business to come before this :Body, the meeting
adjourned at 7:35 p.m.
Approved
- Attest,
Chairperson