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2024-05-07 MinutesPage 1 of 11 MEETING MINUTES MAY 7, 2024 6:30 PM VILLAGE HALL COUNCIL CHAMBERS 1) CALL TO ORDER Mayor Burch called the meeting to order at 6:30 PM. 2) MOMENT OF SILENCE / PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE 3) ROLL CALL Present: Mayor George Burch Vice Mayor Jesse Valinsky Councilmember Jerome Charles Councilmember Sandra Harris Councilmember Neil Cantor Also Present: Village Manager Esmond Scott Village Attorney Chanae wood Village Clerk Ysabely Rodriguez 4) ORDER OF BUSINESS Village Manager Scott requested the deferral of the grants update item it until the next Council Meeting. Mayor Burch pulled items 8B, 8C, and 8D off the consent agenda. Vice Mayor Jesse Valinsky moved to approve the order of business. Mayor Burch seconded the motion, which carried a unanimous vote. 5) BOARDS/COMMITTEES REPORT 5.A. MIAMI-DADE COUNTY FIRE RESCUE ANNUAL REPORT (PRESENTED BY: CHIEF RAIED JADALLAH). Page 2 of 11 Chief Jadallah provided a detailed overview of the Miami-Dade Fire Rescue (MDFR), highlighting its position among the top ten fire departments in the United States and its ranking as the sixth largest fire rescue service. The presentation then focused on Miami Shores, which has seen a population increase of over 1,000 people and a 10% rise in call volume since 2018. In 2023, Miami Shores experienced 1,242 incidents, reflecting this increased demand. Jadallah detailed the resources available to Miami Shores, including seven nearby stations with seven rescues, six suppression units, and a battalion chief, ensuring a robust response capability. Chief Jadallah highlighted the high satisfaction rate among Miami Shores residents, with a 99% satisfaction rate and an average rating of 4.93 out of 5. He concluded his presentation by thanking the mayor, Council members, and staff for the opportunity to present the 2023 service delivery report. Vice Mayor Jesse Valinsky expressed appreciation for the quick response times and shared personal experiences with MDFR, including a recent interaction with first responders. Vice Mayor Valinsky inquired about the ongoing renovations at Station 30. Chief Jadallah provided an update, noting that the renovations, costing nearly $1 million, included upgrades to windows, roofs, insulation, and interior features, and the replacement of the septic tank with a sewer line connection. He assured that despite the renovations, the station remained operational and that the welfare of the firefighters was a top priority. 5.B. RECAP OF 2024 LEGISLATIVE SESSION (PRESENTED BY: THE SOUTHERN GROUP LOBBYIST, KATE DELOACH). Nelson Diaz, the director of the lobbying firm, addressed the Council, reintroducing his team and introducing a new member, Olivia, who would assist the Village in the next session starting March 2025. Kate Deloach discussed the policy issues the Southern Group had worked on for the Village. She highlighted several available grant programs identified in collaboration with Village staff. These included the Resilient Florida program, which received $150 million in funding and could be used for projects mitigating flooding and sea level rise. Additionally, there was a $100 million fund for wastewater grant programs, primarily aimed at septic to sewer conversions. The Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) program, a federally funded initiative, was also mentioned as a potential source for window replacement and hardening projects. Kate further noted the Division of Historical Resources' small matching and special category grants for projects like country club renovations with educational components and charter school capital outlay funding for addressing capital needs. Ms. DeLoach then moved to policy updates, starting with the narrowly passed vacation rentals bill, which could potentially impact the Village's existing ordinance. Ms. DeLoach noted the Village had sent a veto letter to the governor regarding this bill. Nelson Diaz added that once the governor receives the bill, he has 15 days to make a decision. Ms. DeLoach highlighted the affordable housing bill, a continuation of the Live Local Act from the previous year, noting that it remained clean throughout the legislative process. The bill had just been sent to the governor. She also mentioned HB 473, the cybersecurity incident liability bill, which would reduce liability for local governments that comply with cybersecurity training standards and incident notification protocols. The expedited approval of residential building permits was another challenging bill for local governments, with provisions that would be difficult to implement. Lastly, Ms. DeLoach discussed the local government actions bill, which requires local governments to complete a business impact Page 3 of 11 statement before adopting or implementing a comprehensive plan amendment or land development regulation. She had provided the statutory requirements for this statement to Mr. Scott for distribution to the Council. Councilmember Neil Cantor expressed concern about the trend of municipality-infringing legislation from the state and requested early notification of relevant bills to discuss and determine the Village's best course of action. Nelson Diaz explained that bills could be filed until after the November elections, and the Southern Group would start sending reports of relevant bills to the municipality from mid- December onwards, including any on preemption. 5.C. PRESENTATION ON CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS (STAFF: PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR). Village Manager Scott introduced Public Works Director Christopher Miranda and his assistant director Frank Ruiz. Mr. Scott emphasized the importance of this presentation to understand the numerous ongoing projects in the Village. Mr. Miranda presented the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP), explaining the difference between a capital improvement plan and a capital improvement project and outlined the five steps in developing a CIP project: planning, funding, procurement, design, and construction. Mr. Miranda listed current projects, including sidewalk upgrades, the Bayfront Park seawall, pump stations, septic to sewer conversions, library renovations, buffer wall installations, and generator installations. He highlighted annual projects like sidewalk improvements and the installation of speed tables, as well as six master plans in progress: septic to sewer, stormwater, parks, transportation, golf course, and public works best use practices. Specific projects in design included Bayfront Park seawall, 104th Street grant-funded projects, fuel tank replacements, Biscayne Boulevard beautification, Flagler Trail Greenway, and drainage projects. Construction projects in progress included the 95th Street buffer wall, ADA sidewalk ramps, marquee sign replacements, 96th Street roadway project, Village hall interior renovations, additional library bathrooms, and ongoing sidewalk replacements and speed table installations. Completed projects included ADA ramp at the Brockway Memorial Library, police station window replacement, field house roof replacement, community center carpet replacement, and the acquisition of new maintenance trucks. Council Member Sandra Harris appreciated the presentation, noting it highlighted the numerous ongoing projects and emphasized the need to focus on completing them. No action was taken. 5.D. PRESENTATION ON GRANTS (STAFF: ASSISTANT TO THE VILLAGE MANAGER/GRANTS MANAGER). This item was deferred. 6) MANAGER’S UPDATE Village Manager Scott provided operational updates and emphasized the importance of public service recognition week, thanking staff for their efforts in events and daily work. He addressed concerns from the planning and zoning board, informing the Council about the decision to bring in the Corradino Group to handle planning and zoning matters, replacing Calvin Giordano & Associates (CGA). He Page 4 of 11 assured the Council of the Corradino Group's capability to manage multiple tasks, including the R district and code revisions, while CGA would complete their existing obligations. Mr. Scott addressed rumors and concerns about the Village’s handling of the FIND (Florida Inland Navigation District) grant, clarifying that no funds had been accepted or invoiced from FIND. He emphasized the Village's transparency and provided a timeline of events related to the grant, assuring that all actions were above board. Mr. Scott introduced Veronica Tortosa, a resident who offered to create a video for the Village at no cost. Ms. Tortosa produced a 30-second video for the Miami-Dade League of Cities on short notice, which received positive feedback. 7) PUBLIC COMMENTS Bob Smith spoke in favor of Richard J. Heisenbottle's company handling the restoration of the Miami Shores Country Club. He praised Heisenbottle's trustworthiness and expertise in restoration projects. Mr. Smith also shared his extensive experience in various historical and preservation boards, emphasizing his support for the project and confidence in the Village's decision-making. Maria McGuinness opposed the proposed ordinance for alternates to the Planning and Zoning Board. She believed the existing code already provided the Council with adequate authority to manage appointments and removals. Ms. McGuinness argued that the ordinance would complicate matters and suggested a structured system for alternates if the ordinance were considered, but she preferred it not be passed. Patricia Bonaduce, chair of the historic preservation board, highlighted the successful efforts in celebrating historic homes in Miami Shores. She announced the upcoming centennial splendor tour and emphasized the importance of historical preservation. Ms. Bonaduce also supported Richard J. Heisenbottle for the restoration project, citing his expertise and contribution to the community. Abeer Jadallah shared her concerns about traffic safety in Miami Shores, particularly after being hit by a drunk driver. She stressed the need for better traffic control measures, such as speed bumps and more effective stop signs, to prevent dangerous driving and ensure residents' safety. Cindy Herbst opposed opening Bayfront Park for water access, citing inadequate infrastructure and safety concerns. She emphasized that the park was not suitable for such use and urged the Council to focus on repairing the seawall instead of pursuing changes that would increase traffic and potentially endanger residents. Alice Burch thanked a local officer for his professionalism during a difficult situation involving a friend's unexpected death. She also highlighted the importance of Senate Bill 770, which would allow for low- cost PACE loans for property improvements, including septic system repairs, and urged the Council to support it. Brandon Spirk raised concerns about state legislation affecting local control, specifically Senate Bill 812 and the Live Local Act. He questioned if the Council had considered joining other municipalities in opposing these measures to protect local governance and ensure proper zoning codes. Nancy Dowson reiterated concerns about traffic safety, particularly at intersections where drivers frequently ignore stop signs. She suggested implementing roundabouts to slow down traffic and improve safety, echoing a proposal she made years ago that was initially dismissed. eComments were read into the record by Village Clerk Rodriguez. Page 5 of 11 8) CONSENT AGENDA Councilmember Charles moved to approve the consent agenda as amended, and Councilmember Harris seconded the motion, which carried a 5-0 voice vote. 8.A APPROVAL OF THE APRIL 2, 2024 VILLAGE COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES (STAFF: VILLAGE CLERK). Passed on Consent. 8.B A RESOLUTION OF THE VILLAGE COUNCIL OF MIAMI SHORES VILLAGE, FLORIDA, APPROVING A CONTRACT RENEWAL TO THE TURF AND LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE AGREEMENT WITH THE FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION AUTHORIZING THE VILLAGE MANAGE TO EXECUTE AN AGREEMENT RELATED TO THE SAME; PROVIDING FOR IMPLEMENTATION; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. (STAFF: VILLAGE MANAGER). Village Clerk Rodriguez read the caption of the resolution into the record. Village Manager Scott provided opening remarks, explaining that municipalities with state roads within their boundaries often enter agreements with FDOT to share maintenance costs. In Miami Shores, the roads included Biscayne Boulevard, 103rd Street, and 6th Avenue. FDOT's financial contributions, although insufficient to cover all expenses, helped defray some costs associated with maintaining these areas. Mr. Scott noted this agreement was in its third and final year, requiring renewal. Mayor George Burch questioned the expenses incurred on 6th Avenue and 103rd Street, noting the absence of medians. Mr. Scott clarified that the maintenance covered tree care, litter control, and occasional street sweeping, tasks FDOT would typically handle. Mayor Burch sought further clarification on responsibilities, such as road and sidewalk maintenance. Mr. Scott confirmed that the agreement does not include infrastructure items like sidewalks. Mr. Scott added that the Village received a highway beautification grant to design Biscayne Boulevard distinctly, enhancing its appearance with input from residents. Mayor Burch asked what would happen if the Village didn't renew the agreement. Mr. Scott replied that FDOT would then perform maintenance at a lower standard and less frequent intervals. Councilmember Charles moved to approve the resolution, Vice Mayor Valinsky seconded the motion, which carried a 5-0 voice vote. 8.C A RESOLUTION OF THE VILLAGE COUNCIL OF MIAMI SHORES VILLAGE, FLORIDA, ADOPTING THE VILLAGE’S STRATEGIC PRIORITIES; PROVIDING FOR IMPLEMENTATION; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE (STAFF: VILLAGE MANAGER). Village Clerk Rodriguez read the caption of the resolution into the record. Village Manager Scott clarified there had been an error in attributing the item to him. He explained that the intent was to memorialize the priorities discussed during a Council retreat. Mr. Scott emphasized the Page 6 of 11 strategic management plan, which was developed with significant community input and zero cost with the help of Barry University, remained important. This plan involved surveys from 325 residents and consultations with stakeholders, including downtown property owners. Mr. Scott highlighted that all 12 priorities listed in the strategic plan were actively being worked on, with some, like improving public WiFi, already completed. The purpose of the resolution was to formalize the top five priorities identified at the retreat, which were not to replace the comprehensive strategic plan but to guide management in their current efforts. Councilmember Jerome Charles supported the resolution, emphasizing that the retreat and resulting priorities were in line with the Village Charter's call for transparency and provided clear direction to management. Mayor George Burch expressed concerns about the resolution, arguing that it should not be passed without further public input and discussion, given the Village's numerous priorities and limited resources. He felt that a more comprehensive approach was needed to determine the Village's strategic priorities. Vice Mayor Jesse Valinsky and Councilmember Sandra Harris also raised concerns about the perception of the resolution. Vice Mayor Valinsky highlighted the need for clarity and transparency, noting that the resolution might confuse residents about the Village's actual priorities. Councilmember Harris suggested withdrawing the resolution to avoid confusion and acknowledged the value of the retreat as a team- building exercise rather than a definitive prioritization exercise. Councilmember Neil Cantor acknowledged the retreat's benefits but emphasized the need for the community center to be a prioritized gem in the Village, reflecting feedback from numerous residents. Councilmember Harris moved to deny the resolution, Mayor Burch seconded the motion, which carried a 5-0 voice vote. 8.D RESOLUTION OF THE COUNCIL OF MIAMI SHORES VILLAGE, FLORIDA, APPROVING THE RANKING OF RESPONDENTS ESTABLISHED BY THE AUDITOR SELECTION COMMITTEE FOR REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL 2024-02-01 INDEPENDENT EXTERNAL AUDITING SERVICES; AUTHORIZING THE VILLAGE MANAGER TO NEGOTIATE AND EXECUTE A THREE YEAR AGREEMENT, WITH TWO ONE YEAR RENEWALS WITH THE TOP RANKED FIRM MARCUM, LLP, AND IF NEGOTIATIONS ARE UNSUCCESSFUL, TO NEGOTIATE WITH CABALLERO FIERMAN LLERENA + GARCIA, LLP AS THE SECOND-RANKED PROPOSER (STAFF: FINANCE DIRECTOR). Village Clerk Rodriguez read the caption of the resolution into the record. Village Manager Scott explained the background of the resolution, highlighting the importance of periodically reviewing auditing services for best practices. He acknowledged the long-standing service of Caballero Fierman Llerena and Garcia LLP, emphasizing the need for a fresh perspective in auditing practices. Representatives from Markham LLP, expressed readiness to commence the audit promptly and offered their firm's extensive experience in servicing municipalities. Councilmember Cantor expressed anticipation for the insights the new auditing firm would bring, emphasizing the importance of a fresh perspective. Councilmember Harris, who served on the selection committee, voiced concerns about the transition process but acknowledged the firm's readiness to begin the audit. Mayor Burch sought Councilmember Harris's opinion on the matter, highlighting her involvement in the selection process. Councilmember Harris moved to approve the resolution, and Vice Mayor Valinsky seconded the motion, Page 7 of 11 which carried a 5-0 voice vote. 9) ORDINANCE(S) ON SECOND READING- PUBLIC HEARING 9.A AN ORDINANCE OF THE VILLAGE COUNCIL OF MIAMI SHORES VILLAGE, FLORIDA, AMENDING THE VILLAGE’S CODE OF ORDINANCES BY AMENDING CHAPTER 11, “HISTORIC PRESERVATION,” SECTION 11-2, “DEFINITIONS” TO AMEND CERTAIN DEFINITIONS; SECTION 11-4, “HISTORIC PRESERVATION BOARD,” TO CLARIFY THE POWERS AND DUTIES OF THE HISTORIC PRESERVATION BOARD REGARDING HISTORIC MARKERS AND CERTIFICATES OF RECOGNITION; AND SECTION 11-5, “CLASSIFICATION PROCEDURE” TO REMOVE THE REQUIREMENT OF PLANNING AND ZONING BOARD REVIEW OF HISTORICALLY DESIGNATED PROPERTIES; PROVIDING FOR CONFLICT; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING FOR CODIFICATION; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. Village Clerk read the caption of the ordinance into the record. Village Manager Scott expressed enthusiasm for the ordinance but requested its deferral to the next meeting due to procedural issues that had arisen. Vice Mayor Valinsky moved to defer this item to the next Council Meeting, and Councilmember Cantor seconded the motion, which carried a 5-0 voice vote. 10) ORDINANCE(S) ON FIRST READING 10.A AN ORDINANCE OF THE VILLAGE COUNCIL OF MIAMI SHORES VILLAGE, FLORIDA, AMENDING THE VILLAGE’S CODE OF ORDINANCES BY AMENDING CHAPTER 19, “PLANNING,” TO PROVIDE FOR ALTERNATE MEMBERS ON THE PLANNING AND ZONING BOARD WHEN A QUALIFYING EVENT TAKES PLACE; PROVIDING FOR CONFLICT; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING FOR CODIFICATION; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE (STAFF: PLANNING & ZONING DIRECTOR). Village Clerk Rodriguez read the caption of the ordinance into the record. Judith Frankel, the Director of Planning & Zoning, explained the necessity for alternates, highlighting the potential issues that could arise from a lack of provisions for alternate board members. She emphasized the need for consistency and the importance of clarifying the duties of voting versus alternate members. Ms. Frankel also suggested that alternate members should be encouraged to attend all meetings for consistency and participation in discussions. During the discussion, Attorney Chanae Wood provided clarifications on the proposed changes, emphasizing the goal of maintaining a five-member board at all times. She proposed condensing the qualifying events to simply absence or recusal of a voting member to ensure prompt action in case of vacancies. Attorney Wood also addressed concerns about the involvement of alternates in discussions and the voting process, suggesting that alternates should not vote unless serving as a voting member in the absence of others. Councilmembers expressed various concerns and opinions regarding the proposed ordinance. Some questioned the practicality of having alternates attend all meetings, while others highlighted the importance of ensuring continuity and avoiding tie votes. There were also discussions about the potential impact on applicants and the need for public input on the matter. Page 8 of 11 Mayor Burch opened public comments. Toni McCormick spoke in favor of the proposed ordinance due to the critical time for planning and zoning matters. Alice Burch asked whether a report outlining the practice of other municipalities is beneficial. Connie Nappier III expressed reservations about allowing the alternate member participate in discussions when there is a five-member body present as it may prolong the meeting. Mr. Nappier advocated for the attendance of the alternate at all meetings. After thorough discussion and consideration, Vice Mayor Jesse Valinsky moved to approve the ordinance with the attorney's suggested amendment to combine the qualifying events and clarify the conditions for alternate members and Councilmember Harris seconded the motion, which carried a 5-0 voice vote. 11) RESOLUTIONS 11.A A RESOLUTION OF THE VILLAGE COUNCIL OF MIAMI SHORES VILLAGE, FLORIDA, WAIVING THE COMPETITIVE BID PROCESS, PURSUANT TO RESOLUTION 1124-07, SECTION 1. 6); AUTHORIZING THE VILLAGE MANAGER TO ENTER INTO AN AGREEMENT WITH COASTAL RISK CONSULTING, LLC., IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $64,000 (STAFF: VILLAGE MANAGER) Village Clerk Rodriguez read the caption of the resolution into the record. Village Manager Esmond Scott requested the assistant to the Village Manager/grants manager, Elizabeth Keely, introduce the item. Ms. Keely explained the reason for waiving the bid process was that Coastal Risk Consulting had previously conducted a vulnerability study for the Village in 2018. To avoid duplicating costs, the Village sought to update the study using Coastal Risk's services after receiving a grant from the state. Coastal Risk proposed a fee of $64,000 for this update, which was necessary to comply with recent changes to Florida state statutes requiring an update to the vulnerability study, now extending to a 50-year timeframe. Albert Slap, the president of Coastal Risk Consulting, along with Rajiv Krishnan, the CFO, elaborated on the importance of the study. They emphasized that the study, based on scientific data regarding flooding, sea level rise, storm surges, and climate change, would provide essential information for obtaining additional grants and making decisions regarding infrastructure and resilience. Mr. Slap clarified that the study did not address issues like stormwater management or septic to sewer conversion directly but provided a scientific basis for future decision-making. Councilmember Harris sought clarification on the frequency of the required updates, to which Ms. Keely explained state statutes required updating the study to cover a 50-year period, thus necessitating periodic updates. Responding to a question from the Mayor, Mr. Slap clarified that the study focused on providing scientific data rather than making specific recommendations for action. However, it would lay the groundwork for future discussions and decisions regarding adaptation strategies. Councilmember Charles moved to approve the resolution, Vice Mayor Valinsky seconded the motion, which carried a 5-0 voice vote. Page 9 of 11 12) DISCUSSION & POSSIBLE ACTION ITEMS 12.A. DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION ABOUT THE VILLAGE HONORING ITS HANDSHAKE AGREEMENT WITH MAIMI SHORES PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH ON MAINTAINING THE PARKING LOT (SPONSORED BY: MAYOR GEORGE BURCH). Mayor Burch expressed his concern about the current state of the parking lot, highlighting issues such as cracking asphalt, faded bumpers, and the need for restriping. He emphasized the importance of addressing these maintenance issues, especially given the frequent use of the parking lot by community members visiting the nearby community center. The Mayor urged the Council to vote on the matter to avoid prolonged debate and to provide clear direction. He mentioned the longstanding informal agreement between the church and the Village and suggested that it was time to formalize it. However, Mayor Burch also acknowledged his personal connection to the church and expressed willingness to abstain from voting if necessary to avoid any potential conflict of interest. Attorney Chanae Wood clarified that his membership in the church did not constitute a conflict of interest unless there was a direct financial benefit involved. Councilmember Harris expressed reservations about informal agreements but indicated support for the proposed action. She requested confirmation from the Village Manager regarding the status of the agreement being drafted. Village Manager Esmond Scott assured the Council that discussions were underway, and a draft agreement was being finalized. Attorney Wood confirmed that while there was no existing formal agreement, the Village was in the process of creating one to memorialize the current arrangement for an extended period. Councilmember Harris sought clarification on the Village's intention regarding the maintenance of the parking lot. Manager Scott clarified that the Village aimed to not only formalize the agreement but also address the maintenance needs of the parking lot itself. No formal action was taken. 12.B. DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION REGARDING THE PROPOSAL TO REJECT THE FLORIDA INLAND NAVIGATION DISTRICT (FIND) GRANT, IF IT REQUIRES WATER ACCESS IN THE FORM OF A KAYAK/CANOE LAUNCH RAMP, OR LOSS OF VILLAGE CONTROL OF THE PROPERTY (SPONSORED BY: MAYOR GEORGE BURCH.) Mayor Burch expressed receiving numerous calls from residents concerned about water access and the Village's ability to control activities at the park. He initially believed the Council had already voted to reject the grant if it required water access but discovered this was not the case. Mayor Burch highlighted the ambiguity surrounding the definition of "water access" and expressed residents' opposition to it. Vice Mayor Jesse Valinsky clarified that previous discussions focused on fixing the seawall without incorporating water access features like kayak ramps. He emphasized that the Council had not proposed any plans involving water access and had no intention of doing so. Vice Mayor Valinsky explained that while the grant had been awarded, the Village had no current plans to utilize the funds for water access projects. Councilmember Charles added that the previous Council had rejected criteria related to the construction of a public kayak ramp. He noted that the definition of water access remained unclear, with different interpretations among officials. Councilmember Charles mentioned that other municipalities, like North Page 10 of 11 Bay Village, had accepted FIND grants but had existing water access infrastructure like marinas. Mayor Burch expressed concern about FIND's requirement for water access and sought confirmation from the Council regarding their stance on accepting the grant under such conditions. However, Vice- Mayor Valinsky reiterated that the Council had not proposed any water access plans and had already approved fixing the seawall without additional features. The discussion revealed that there was no clear definition of water access, leading to uncertainty about the grant's conditions. Council members emphasized that they had no plans to utilize the grant for water access projects and had already committed to fixing the seawall. They suggested that the issue of water access be clarified before making any decisions. In conclusion, the Council acknowledged the need for further clarification on the definition of water access and reiterated their focus on the seawall repair project without additional features. They emphasized that no official vote had been taken to reject water access and highlighted the lack of clarity surrounding the grant's conditions. 12.C. DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION ON RETAINING THE FIRM OF R.J. HEISENBOTTLE AS A CONSULTANT TO OBTAIN GRANTS FOR THE HISTORIC PRESERVATION OF OUR GOLF COURSE AND COUNTRY CLUB (SPONSORED BY: MAYOR GEORGE BURCH). OF THE FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE (FOP) CONTRACT. (STAFF: VILLAGE MANAGER) Mayor Burch advocated for the professional services of R.J. Heisenbottle as a consultant for the golf course project, citing the firm's expertise in accessing historic funds for the state of Florida. He highlighted the firm's recent recognition as the top performer in the state in this field and emphasized the potential financial benefits they could bring to the project. Mayor Burch mentioned the missed opportunity of not utilizing their services earlier, which could have potentially saved the Village $50,000 in planning costs. Councilmember Charles expressed reservations about proceeding with hiring the consultant before receiving the comprehensive study from the National Golf Foundation (NGF) regarding both the golf course and country club. He argued that decisions should be made based on the findings of this study rather than assumptions about potential grant opportunities. Vice Mayor Jesse Valinsky echoed Council Member Charles' sentiment, expressing uncertainty about how R.J. Heisenbottle would interface with the existing consultants hired by the Village. He emphasized the importance of understanding the roles and interactions between these entities before making any decisions. Councilmember Cantor agreed with the need to wait for the NGF's report before further discussing the consultant's role in the project. He suggested postponing any motion until more information was available. Mayor Burch acknowledged the Council's concerns and agreed to await the NGF's report before proceeding with any decisions regarding hiring the consultant. No action was taken. 13) MANAGER’S REPORT No report 14) ATTORNEY'S REPORT Attorney Chanae Wood stated that she had no formal report but wanted to discuss amending the firm's current contract with the Council. She proposed appointing a Council member as a liaison to facilitate Page 11 of 11 discussions between the firm's office and the Council, adhering to sunshine law requirements. The appointed liaison would help initiate the discussion, which would then be brought back for full Council deliberation and a vote. Vice Mayor Jesse Valinsky volunteered to serve as the liaison. Councilmember Cantor supported the nomination. Council Member Charles confirmed his support for Vice Mayor Valinsky's nomination. There was consensus to appoint Vice Mayor Valinsky as the liaison. 15) ANNOUNCEMENTS None 16) VILLAGE COUNCIL COMMENTS None 17) ADJOURNMENT There being no further business before the Village Council, the meeting adjourned at 9:34 PM.