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2025-07-01 Council Meeting Minutes1 MEETING MINUTES JULY 1, 2025 6:30 PM COUNCIL CHAMBERS 1) CALL TO ORDER Mayor Jerome Charles called the meeting to order at 6:35 PM. 2) MOMENT OF SILENCE / PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE 2) ROLL CALL 4) ORDER OF BUSINESS Councilmember George Burch requested to remove item 8a from the consent agenda. He also suggested voting on the number of people to be appointed to the Doctors Charter School board before making selections. Mayor Charles clarified that item 8a would be pulled from consent, but the Doctor's Charter School board composition would be addressed in its regular agenda order. 5) PRESENTATIONS 5.A PRESENTATION OF THE LAW ENFORCEMENT ACCREDITATION AWARD BY THE COMMISSION FOR FLORIDA LAW ENFORCEMENT ACCREDITATION (STAFF: VILLAGE MANAGER). Village Manager Esmond Scott introduced the item, expressing pride in the police department's achievement. Police Chief David Golt provided details on the three-year accreditation process. He highlighted Sergeant Michelle Laurenceau’s efforts in leading the project, which involved updating policies, modifying procedures, and changing department operations. Chief Golt noted that the department received a perfect assessment with no compliance issues. He presented the accreditation award to the Council. Councilmember Jesse Valinsky emphasized the significance of the achievement, especially for a department of Miami Shores' size. He thanked the previous Council and staff for their foresight in hiring Manager Scott and Chief Golt. 6) MANAGER'S UPDATE 2 Village Manager Esmond Scott addressed the dissolution of the aftercare program at the community center. He clarified that the Village did not lose accreditation or its license, nor was it operating in disregard of policies and procedures. The Department of Children and Families (DCF) had not approached them about the aftercare program until issuing a cease-and-desist order. Parks and Recreation Director Angela Dorney explained that DCF's cease and desist order was received about four weeks ago. She outlined short-term and long-term goals for addressing the situation. In the short term, they plan to offer an open rec room from 3-6 pm where children can be dropped off with a resident membership ID card. Long-term solutions are being explored, including potential partnerships and licensing options. Assistant Parks & Recreation Director Jacquelyn Villagran clarified that they can still host instructional after-school programming, but the issue lies with keeping children for a non-instructional period from 3-6 pm. Councilmembers expressed disappointment in the cancellation of the program and emphasized its importance to the community. They encouraged staff to continue exploring solutions and to maintain communication with parents. 7) PUBLIC COMMENTS Ed Nadal commented on the permit fee structure, suggesting it should be updated. Kristen Adsit spoke about the aftercare program cancellation, expressing their concerns and the program's value to the community. They urged the Council to find a solution to maintain the program. Natasha spoke about the aftercare program cancellation, expressing their concerns and the program's value to the community. They urged the Council to find a solution to maintain the program. Christian Ulvert spoke about the Doctors Charter School board composition and requested reappointment to the board. Rebecca Ruiz spoke about the aftercare program cancellation, expressing their concerns and the program's value to the community. They urged the Council to find a solution to maintain the program. 8) CONSENT AGENDA Vice Mayor Cantor moved to approve the consent agenda as amended and Councilmember Valinsky seconded the motion which carried a 5-0 voice vote. 8.A A RESOLUTION OF THE VILLAGE COUNCIL OF MIAMI SHORES VILLAGE, FLORIDA; APPROVING THE AWARD OF INVITATION TO BID NO. 2025-02-01 DRAINAGE IMPROVEMENTS ALONG NE 8TH AVE FROM NE 90TH ST. AND NE 93RD ST. AND AUTHORIZING THE VILLAGE MANAGER OR DESIGNEE TO EXECUTE AN AGREEMENT WITH THE LOWEST RESPONSIVE AND RESPONSIBLE BIIDER, PABON ENGINEERING, INC., AND AUTHORIZE THE VILLAGE MANAGER OR DESIGNEE TO EXPEND AN ESTIMATED AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $645,000; AND PROVIDING FOR IMPLEMENTATION; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE (PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR). Village Clerk Rodriguez read the caption of the resolution into the record. 3 Public Works Director Delroy Peters provided background information regarding the item. Councilmember Burch posed various questions regarding the use of exfiltration trenches for the project to which Director Peters answered in the affirmative. Responding to Councilmember Burch’s inquiry regarding how far the water table would be below the land, Mr. Peters noted the water table is perhaps about 5 feet below. There being no further discussion, Vice Mayor Cantor moved to approve the resolution and Councilmember Valinsky seconded the motion which carried a 5-0 voice vote. 8.B APPROVAL OF THE MAY 20, 2025 VILLAGE COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES (STAFF: VILLAGE CLERK). Passed on Consent. 8.C APPROVAL OF THE MAY 29, 2025 VILLAGE COUNCIL WORKSHOP MINUTES (STAFF: VILLAGE CLERK). Passed on Consent. 8.D APPROVAL OF THE JUNE 3, 2025 VILLAGE COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES (STAFF: VILLAGE CLERK). Passed on Consent. 8.E APPROVAL OF THE JUNE 17, 2025 PRE-BUDGET WORKSHOP MEETING MINUTES (STAFF: VILLAGE CLERK). 8.F APPROVAL OF THE JUNE 17, 2025 VILLAGE COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES (STAFF: VILLAGE CLERK). Passed on Consent. 9) ORDINANCE(S) ON SECOND READING- PUBLIC HEARING 9.A AN ORDINANCE OF THE VILLAGE COUNCIL OF MIAMI SHORES VILLAGE, FLORIDA; AMENDING CHAPTER 1, GENERAL PROVISIONS TO UPDATE THE FINE ARTS COMMISSION NAME; AMENDING CHAPTER 24 ART IN PUBLIC PLACES, TO RENAME THE FINE ARTS COMMISSION TO THE ARTS AND CULTURE BOARD AND PROVIDE CLARIFYING REVISIONS; PROVIDING FOR CODIFICATION, SEVERABILITY, CONFLICTS, AND AN EFFECTIVE DATE (STAFF: PARKS & RECREATION DIRECTOR). Village Clerk Rodriguez read the caption of the ordinance into the record. Parks and Recreation Director Angela Dorney presented the second reading of the ordinance to codify the name change from Fine Arts Commission to Arts and Culture Board. The ordinance also clarifies the 4 application of the public art requirement and lowers the threshold for development projects from 10,000 to 5,000 square feet. Mayor Charles opened the public hearing and subsequently closed it, as no one present approached the lectern. Kristen Adsit, chairperson of the board, explained that the name change reflects the broader scope of the board's activities, including performance, programming, and music. Councilmember George Burch inquired about the budget for the fine arts program, which was confirmed to exist and have funds. Vice Mayor Cantor moved to adopt the ordinance and Councilmember Valinsky 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 CHAPTER 9, GARBAGE AND TRASH, ARTICLE III, SECTION 9-42, SCHEDULE, OF THE VILLAGE CODE OF ORDINANCES TO SET ASSESSMENT RATES BY RESOLUTION OF THE VILLAGE COUNCIL; PROVIDING FOR CONFLICT; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING FOR CODIFICATION; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE (STAFF: VILLAGE MANAGER). Village Clerk Rodriguez read the caption of the ordinance into the record. Village Manager Esmond Scott and Special Projects/Grants Manager Elizabeth Keeley explained that this ordinance would remove specific rate schedules from the ordinance, allowing future rate adjustments to be made by resolution rather than requiring ordinance amendments. Mayor Charles opened the public hearing. Brian Tenney asked Council to elaborate on the scope of the item. Mr. Scott responded to the scope of the item as detailed in the Council memorandum. Councilmember Jesse Valinsky clarified to the public that this change would provide flexibility for future rate adjustments and is separate from the upcoming solid waste rate study discussion. Vice Mayor Cantor moved to approve the ordinance and Councilmember Burch seconded the motion which carried a 5-0 voice vote. 10.B AN ORDINANCE OF THE VILLAGE COUNCIL OF MIAMI SHORES VILLAGE, FLORIDA; AMENDING CHAPTER 2, ADMINISTRATION, ARTICLE VI., CHARTER SCHOOL AUTHORITY, TO REVISE THE COMPOSITION OF THE CHARTER SCHOOL AUTHORITY BOARD AND INCREASING THE SPENDING THRESHOLD OF THE AUTHORITY; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY, CONFLICTS, AND AN EFFECTIVE DATE (STAFF: VILLAGE ATTORNEY). Village Clerk Rodriguez read the caption of the ordinance into the record. Village Attorney Chanae Wood presented the ordinance to change the composition of the Charter School Authority Board and increase its spending threshold. The ordinance proposed reducing the board size 5 from 13 to 9 members, with 6 Village Council appointees, 2 PTA appointees, and 1 Barry University appointee. It also proposed increasing the spending threshold from $200,000 to $300,000. Extensive discussion ensued among Council members regarding the board composition, particularly the number of seats for Barry University and PTA representatives. Concerns were raised about Barry University's level of involvement and the importance of maintaining Village representation. After debate, the Council agreed to maintain 7 Village-appointed seats, 1 PTA seat, and 1 Barry University seat, for a total of 9 board members. Mayor Charles opened the public hearing. Elizabeth Keeley spoke about the importance of monitoring the attendance of board members. Bill Tenney spoke about the importance of basing their decision on the advancement of the school. Councilmember Valinsky moved to amend the ordinance to keep 7 Village-appointed seats, 1 PTA seat, and 1 Barry University seat and Councilmember Burch seconded the motion which carried a 5-0 voice vote. Vice Mayor Cantor moved to amend the ordinance to add language restricting the board's ability to enter into agreements that materially alter the governance structure, operational control, or educational mission of the charter school. The motion was seconded by Councilmember Valinsky which carried a 5-0 voice vote. Vice Mayor Cantor moved to approve the ordinance as amended and Councilmember Devaney seconded the motion which carried a 5-0 voice vote. 11) BOARD APPOINTMENT(S) 11.A APPOINTMENTS TO DOCTORS CHARTER SCHOOL BOARD (4 VACANCIES). The Village Clerk provided opening remarks, explaining that four appointments were to be made to the Doctors Charter School Board. Vice Mayor Neil Cantor recommended Barbara Quinaz, Rachel Fabricant (moving from her PTA seat to a Village seat), Alice Burch, and Sandra Leon. After discussion and voting, the following appointments were made: Councilmember Burch -Burch, Fabricant, Leon, Quinaz Councilmember Devaney- Burch, Fabricant, Quinaz, Ulvert Councilmember Valinsky- Burch, Fabricant, Quinaz, Ulvert Vice Mayor Cantor- Burch, Fabricant, Leon, Quinaz Mayor Charles- Burch, Fabricant, Leon, Quinaz Alice Burch, Rachel Fabricant, Sandra Leon, and Barbara Quinaz were appointed to serve on the Doctors Charter School Board for 2 years. 6 11.B APPOINTMENTS TO THE CODE ENFORCEMENT BOARD (3 VACANCIES). The Village Clerk presented the applicants for the Code Enforcement Board. After voting, the following appointments were made: Councilmember Burch – Berryman, Buenconsejo, Perl Councilmember Devaney- Berryman, Buenconsejo, Perl Councilmember Valinsky- Berryman, Buenconsejo, Perl Vice Mayor Cantor- Buenconsejo, Perl, Tortoza Mayor Charles- Berryman, Buenconsejo, Perl John Berryman, Rod Buenconsejo, and Barry Pearl were appointed to the Code Enforcement Board. John Berryman was selected to serve a 1-year term, while Rod Buenconsejo and Barry Pearl will serve 3-year terms. 11.C APPOINTMENTS TO THE HISTORIC PRESERVATION BOARD (3 VACANCIES). Several applicants introduced themselves and their qualifications for the Historic Preservation Board. After voting, the following appointments were made: Councilmember Burch – Bonaduce, Headley, Serrano Councilmember Devaney- Bonaduce, Headley, Serrano Councilmember Valinsky- Bonaduce, Headley, Serrano Vice Mayor Cantor- Bonaduce, Headley, Serrano Mayor Charles- Bonaduce, Headley, Serrano Patricia Bonaduce, Michelle Headley, and Daniel Serrano were appointed to the Historic Preservation Board. 11.D APPOINTMENTS TO THE RECREATION ADVISORY COMMITTEE (5 VACANCIES). The Village Clerk presented the applicants for the Recreation Advisory Committee. After voting, the following appointments were made: Councilmember Burch – Baumann, Beidita, LaCapra, Piper, Thompson Councilmember Devaney- Baumann, Castellanos, LaCapra, Piper, Thompson Councilmember Valinsky- Baumann, Castellanos, LaCapra, Piper, Thompson Vice Mayor Cantor- Baumann, Beidita, Castellanos, LaCapra, Thompson 7 Mayor Charles- Baumann, LaCapra, Leal, Piper, Thompson Jennifer Baumann, Wesley Castellanos, Justin LaCapra, Cheryl Piper, and Sharon Thompson were appointed to the Recreation Advisory Committee. 11.E APPOINTMENTS TO THE SUSTAINABILITY & RESILIENCY COMMITTEE (4 VACANCIES). Carol Respondek introduced herself and her qualifications for the Sustainability & Resiliency Committee. After voting, the following appointments were made: Councilmember Burch – Brady, Casey, Respondek, Kang Councilmember Devaney- Casey, Respondek, Kang, Toney Councilmember Valinsky- Casey, Respondek, Kang, Toney, Vice Mayor Cantor- Casey, Respondek, Kang, Toney, Mayor Charles- Casey, Respondek, Kang, Toney, Patricia Casey, Carol Respondek, Sylvia King, and Hilda Lee Tony were appointed to the Sustainability & Resiliency Committee. 12) RESOLUTION(S) 12.A A RESOLUTION OF THE VILLAGE COUNCIL OF MIAMI SHORES VILLAGE, FLORIDA; RELATING TO THE PROVISION OF SOLID WASTE COLLECTION AND DISPOSAL LOCATED WITHIN THE BOUNDARIES OF MIAMI SHORES VILLAGE, FLORIDA; PROVIDING FOR THE ESTIMATED COST FOR SOLID WASTE COLLECTION AND DISPOSAL SERVICES; PROVIDING FOR AN INCREASE IN THE SCHEDULE OF NON-AD VALOREM ASSESSMENTS FOR THE PROVISION OF SOLID WASTE COLLECTON AND DISPOSAL SERVICES; PROVIDING FOR THE METHODOLOGY AND APPORTIONMENT OF THE NON-AD VALOREM ASSESSMENTS TO THE BENIFITTED PARCELS; PROVIDING FOR THE ANNUAL RATE FOR THE NON-AD VALOREM ASSESSMENTS FOR SOLID WASTE COLLECTION AND DISPOSAL SERVICES FOR FISCAL YEAR 2025-2026; DIRECTING THE PREPARATION OF A PRELIMINARY ASSESSMENT ROLL; ESTABLISHING A PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER THE INCREASE TO THE NON-AD VALOREM ASSESSMENTS FOR SOLID WASTE COLLECTION AND DISPOSAL SERVICES; DIRECTING THE PROVISION OF NOTICE OF SUCH PUBLIC HEARING AS PROVIDED BY SECTION 197.3632, FLORIDA STATUTES; PROVIDING FOR IMPLEMENTATION; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. (STAFF: PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR). Village Clerk Rodriguez read the caption of the resolution into the record. Special Projects/Grants Manager Elizabeth Keeley and consultant Peter Napoli from Stantec presented the results of a solid waste rate study. The study recommended a 20% overall revenue increase for fiscal year 2026, followed by a 10% increase in 2027, and 3% increases thereafter to maintain sustainability in the solid waste fund. 8 The presentation detailed the financial plan, cost of service allocation, and proposed rate structure. For single-family residences, the annual rate would increase from about $1,000 to $1,162. Council members discussed the necessity of the increase and its impact on residents. They noted that the Village's solid waste services, particularly frequent bulk trash pickup, are more comprehensive than many other municipalities. Mayor Charles opened public comments; however, no one present approached the lectern. Vice Mayor Cantor moved to approve the resolution and Mayor Charles seconded the motion which carried a 5-0 voice vote. 12.B A RESOLUTION OF THE VILLAGE COUNCIL OF MIAMI SHORES VILLAGE, FLORIDA APPROVING THE APPOINTMENT OF THREE MEMBERS TO THE CHARTER SCHOOL AUTHORITY BOARD; ACKNOWLEDGING THE COUNCIL'S INTENT TO AMEND THE COMPOSITION OF THE BOARD; PROVIDING FOR IMPLEMENTATION; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE (STAFF: VILLAGE ATTORNEY). Village Clerk Rodriguez read the caption of the resolution into the record. This item was addressed earlier in the meeting during the discussion of Ordinance 10b. Mayor Charles opened public comments; however, no one present approached the lectern. Vice Mayor Cantor moved to approve the resolution and Mayor Charles seconded the motion which carried a 5-0 voice vote. 12.C A RESOLUTION OF THE MIAMI SHORES VILLAGE COUNCIL AUTHORIZING THE BORROWING OF NOT EXCEEDING $1,135,000 FROM THE POOLED COMMERCIAL PAPER LOAN PROGRAM OF THE FLORIDA LOCAL GOVERNMENT FINANCE COMMISSION PURSUANT TO THE TERMS OF THE LOAN AGREEMENT AMONG THE VILLAGE, JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, N.A., AND THE COMMISSION IN ORDER TO FINANCE VARIOUS WASTEWATER RELATED CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS WITHIN THE VILLAGE, INCLUDING THE REIMBURSEMENT OF ANY EXPENSES PREVIOUSLY INCURRED BY THE VILLAGE IN CONNECTION THEREWITH; AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION OF A LOAN NOTE OR LOAN NOTES TO EVIDENCE SUCH BORROWING AND AGREEING TO SECURE SUCH BORROWING WITH A COVENANT TO BUDGET AND APPROPRIATE LEGALLY AVAILABLE NON-AD VALOREM REVENUES OF THE VILLAGE, ALL AS PROVIDED IN THE LOAN AGREEMENT; AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION AND DELIVERY OF SUCH OTHER DOCUMENTS AS MAY BE NECESSARY TO EFFECT SUCH BORROWING; AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE (STAFF: VILLAGE MANAGER). Village Clerk Rodriguez read the caption of the resolution into the record. Special Projects/Grants Manager Elizabeth Keeley explained that this resolution authorizes borrowing $1,135,000 for the Shores Estates septic to sewer conversion project. This loan is part of an existing $5 million credit loan limit with the Florida Local Government Finance Commission. Councilmember Burch asked about funding sources specific to the Shores Estates Subdivision. Mayor Charles opened public comments. 9 Julio Martinez asked whether the use of the sewer is deemed low or high in terms of consumption. Vice Mayor Cantor moved to approve the resolution and Councilmember Valinsky seconded the motion which carried a 5-0 voice vote. 12.D A RESOLUTION OF THE VILLAGE COUNCIL OF MIAMI SHORES VILLAGE, FLORIDA RELATING TO THE VILLAGE?S SEPTIC TO SEWER PROGRAM; DECLARING THE IMPOSITION OF NON-AD VALOREM ASSESSMENTS FOR WASTEWATER COLLECTION WITHIN THE SHORES ESTATES RESIDENTIAL SUBDIVISION LOCATED WITHIN THE BOUNDARIES OF MIAMI SHORES VILLAGE, FLORIDA; ESTABLISHING THE METHOD BY WHICH THE NON-AD VALOREM ASSESSMENTS SHALL BE CALCULATED; ESTIMATING THE REVENUE REQUIREMENTS FOR PROVIDING FOR THE PLANNING AND CONSTRUCTION OF THE WASTEWATER COLLECTION SYSTEM; PROVIDING FOR THE CALCULATION OF THE NON-AD VALOREM ASSESSMENTS FOR WASTEWATER COLLECTION; PROVIDING FOR THE METHODOLOGY AND APPORTIONMENT OF THE NON-AD VALOREM ASSESSMENTS TO THE BENIFITTED PARCELS; DIRECTING THE PREPARATION OF A PRELIMINARY ASSESSMENT ROLL; ESTABLISHING A PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER THE IMPOSITION OF AND APPORTIONMENT OF THE NON-AD VALOREM ASSESSMENT AND THE METHOD OF COLLECTION; DIRECTING THE PROVISION OF NOTICE THEREOF; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABLILITY; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE (STAFF: VILLAGE MANAGER). Village Clerk Rodriguez read the caption of the resolution into the record. Special Projects/Grants Manager Elizabeth Keeley and consultant Peter Napoli presented details of the special assessment for the Shores Estates septic to sewer project. The total project cost is $3.4 million, with $2.3 million covered by grants. The remaining $1.135 million will be funded through special assessments to property owners over 20 years. The annual assessment for single-family homes will be $1,163.63, while a vacant parcel will pay $7,336 based on its development potential. Mayor Charles opened public comments; however, no one present approached the lectern. Vice Mayor Cantor moved to approve the resolution and Councilmember Valinsky seconded the motion which carried a 5-0 voice vote. 12.E A RESOLUTION OF THE VILLAGE COUNCIL OF MIAMI SHORES VILLAGE, FLORIDA, APPROVING THE LANDSCAPE, IRRIGATION, AND TURF MAINTENANCE MEMORANDUM OF AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE STATE OF FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION AND MIAMI SHORES VILLAGE; AUTHORIZING THE VILLAGE MANAGER TO ENTER INTO AN AGREEMENT; PROVIDING FOR IMPLEMENTATION; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE (STAFF: PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR). Village Clerk Rodriguez read the caption of the resolution into the record. 10 Public Works Director Delroy Peters explained that this resolution approves an agreement with the Florida Department of Transportation regarding the maintenance of landscaping for the Biscayne Boulevard Beautification project. The Village will assume responsibility for maintaining the planted areas. Vice Mayor Cantor moved to approve the resolution and Mayor Charles seconded the motion which carried a 5-0 voice vote. Councilmember Burch left the meeting at 10:34 PM. 13) DISCUSSION & POSSIBLE ACTION ITEMS 13.A DISCUSSION & POSSIBLE ACTION REGARDING BOATS ANCHORED ON MSV WATERWAYS (SPONSORED BY: COUNCILMEMBER GEORGE BURCH). This item was not discussed due to time constraints. 13.B DISCUSSION ON CLEANING UP THE WATERWAYS OF THE VILLAGE (SPONSORED BY: COUCILMEMBER GEORGE BURCH). This item was not discussed due to time constraints. 14) MANAGER'S REPORT Village Manager Esmond Scott had no additional items to report. 15) ATTORNEY'S REPORT Village Attorney Chanae Wood reported that Senate Bill 180 had passed and was signed by the governor. She stated that the law firm is developing legal strategies to challenge it and offered for Miami Shores to be a lead plaintiff if desired. The Council expressed interest in being at the forefront of challenging the bill, viewing it as an overreach by the State. 16) ANNOUNCEMENTS Village Clerk Rodriguez read the announcements into the record. 17) VILLAGE COUNCIL COMMENTS Council members wished everyone a happy Fourth of July and thanked staff for their patience in staying late for the meeting. They also mentioned the annual fireworks display at the country club. 18) ADJOURNMENT There being no further business before the Village Council, the meeting adjourned at 9:37 PM. 11