City Commission Meeting

testing testing testing testing hairing the meeting for a faire nutes this morning. We have a special meeting today. I want to begin by honroing someone who has lived a distinguished public servant career. Jason a [Unclear] Is our newly appointed and confirmed United States attorney for Florida. He was appointed by the PRESIDENT Of The United States and sworn in AUGUST 13, 2024. His selection and confirmation to lead one of the most active and complex federal districts speaks volumes. He had already built a record of service to our country that deserves recognition. As a judge in the 11th circuit, he presided over civil and criminal cases. He has presided over domestic violence cases with fairness can compassion. He was a national security official with the department of justice. Beyond the court room, he's a veteran of more than 22 years in the United States military. [Applause] This is unique. He has served in both the Army and Air Force. Today, he continues that service as a reserve lieutenant colonel advising on matters of national security. He graduated from fiu College of Law. We have that in common, in parallel. He represents the best of serving with purpose, professionalism, and integrity. Today, it is our city's honor to present him with a key to the City of Miami, a symbol of trust, gratitude, and lasting respect. We thank you for your work, your example, and your commitment to justice. [Applause] >> I want to thank GOD, my wife, and my family. It's an honor to receive. A key to the city. As a Miami native, the person I the civil citation remains Thank you to MR. Mayor, to receive it from him, someone with strong a rong commitment that the city and public safety. It's an honor. Thank you. I appreciate it. [Applause] Move to accept the he commission meeting for 10. 23. 25. I am happy to see you here. Thank you for your advocacy. Now, we are going to do a proclamation to honor one of wnba's elite -- Ms,. Sylvia unc. Lear]. Woo! [Applause] Woo! She has accomplished so much. And is -- [Applause] -- I should have worn my taller heels today. Look at this. She's a role model for her athleticism and for what she is doing to move the sport forward and to also inspire young ladies throughout our country with girl power. Let's go. We excel everywhere. [Applause] I am going to read a little bit of this for you. Whereas Sylvia [Unclear], a proud daughter of the City of Miami and graduate of Edison Senior High School has risen to international prominence through her excellence and accomplishments in the sport of basketball. She paved the way for legendary tenure in the wnba where she became one of the most decorated and dominated players in the league. During her career, she earned wnba championships and Waisea ed Finals mvp twice, received 8 all-star selection, and was the league's all-time leading rebounder, cementing her legacy. She has displayed unparalleled humility and strength of character, serving as a role model to countless young athletes and remains deeply rooted to her hometown community Her passionate involvement with the Miami Sun has provided opportunities to more than 200 student athletes, helping them earn college scholarships to advance their education. Her induction into the basketball hall of fame marks a personal milestone and pride for the City of Miami demonstrating what is possible through discipline and heart. Her hall of fame recognition now gives us, her hometown, the unique opportunity to rightfully celebrate her impact. Therefore, now, Mayor Suarez and the commission have proclaimed Sylvia [Unclear] Day in ianthe City of Miami. [Applause] In addiction to all. F that, she is also beautiful. >> I'ma. Woman of few words. I cannot put into perspective what this moment means to me. Before me, I wouldn't be who I am today. Thank you to the City of Miami for representing me today. Thank you. [Applause] >> Good morning. Okay. The mayor, Commissioner Pardo, and I -- we had the opportunity to present a proclamation to the founder of the Brickell Run Club for things he has done for 15 years to activate the community and promote health and wellbeing for our residents. Frankie was generous. To point out that it was also for this other individual. 15 years ago, the city in partnership with the dda said we needed hundreds or thousands of people to assemble at 7pm every Tuesday in Brickell. How do we give these people a home to meet up and run around? Without Edgardo Fortuna. We could not do that. He has been producing for us and moving us to the global stage for fiscal health. He is the home of the Brickell Run Club. Thank you for lending us your property, energy, and enthusiasm and allowing us to get healthier If you have not been out there on Tuesdays at 7, whether you are quick or like to walk, join us every Tuesday to 7pm. Thank you for everything you have contributed to the city for decades. [Applause] >> Thank you. For all you do for us. I always say that, even though we sell real estate, we sell experiences, community, lifestyle in Miami. To contribute to the lifestyle of Miami is my main goal. Thank you very much. >> Thank you. [Applause] >> The next organization is one that has been in our country for about 120 years as a nonprofit. They have been in Miami Dade County for close to 70 years. They have been located on Lejuene for almost a decide. Gail Nelson, join us with everyone from Big Brothers Big Sisters. [Applause] If you would like for everybody to join us, that would be wonderful as well. Come on up. En I was elected, I learned my predecessor was getting ready to recognize and sponsor this organization. They have a deep footprint across our country which is one of the places we needed this mentorship the most. He passed before the item came up. I wanted to make sure in honor and for their good work to recognize them. They help 1000s of Chilldrin nd teens to partner up with mentors that provide guidance. What these folks have done is nothing short of amazing. If you have not visited this organization, they are south of the airport here in the City of Miami. Their work is exemplary. Their national track record for kids who need that extra attention and love, these folks step in and do the Lord's work. Gail and everybody on your team, we are so deeply grateful for you and proud of you. Thank you for what you contribute to the city and Miami Dade County. [Applause] >> It takes little to be big. Those standing with me are a testament to the power of our community. We cannot do anything without community and corporate support. Let's continue to work together for the good of our Littles. They will pay us back. Thank you. [Applause] >> Good morning. It's an honor to be here today as we celebrate some of Miami's most gifted artists and filmmakers. Your creativity, discipline, and pride in your culture speaks volumes about who you are and the future of this city. You are telling. Miami's story through your work -- of diversity, resilience, and talent. Latino Artbeat has been a powerful force in helping young people find their voice through the arts. We have been able to award more than 1. 5 million dollars in scholarships to help students like you follow your dreams. [Applause] To each of today's honorees, congratulations. [Applause] Barbara is a professional clapper. She gets everybody going. In cruise ships, you hire people to get others on the dance floor. To each of today's honorees, congratulations. You inspire us. We are proud to stand with you as you continuate to grow, create, and lead. Thank you and keep making Miami proud. [Applause] >> As the national PRESIDENT Of Latino Artbeat, thank you to the City of Miami for supporting this program for over 20 years The mayor has diligently honored all of these talented young artists every year of his term. I want to applaud the mayor today for a change. [Applause] I want to thank Miami Dade County public schools, the bureau of tourism. They have been supportive, the Hyatt Regency Hotel and the schools through Miami Dade County public schools who have participated with us. You can applaud. That's okay. [Applause] One last statement -- whille we ven 1. 5 million dollars to talented kids in Miami. We have awarded 6 million dollars nationally. [Applause] >> Thank you. Ank you. I appreciate it. Thank you. Chief? The chief has a presentation to make. I want everybody to join me in wishing the chief a happy birth. Y. . Happy birthday. MAY GOD continue to bless you all the days of your life. [Applause] >> I'm a scorpio. [Singing "Happy Birthday"] [Applause] >> Thank you, everybody. I appreciate it. Business [Can't hear/can't ou don't look a day over 790. > Thank you very much. GOD has blessed me with. The honor of a lifetime to serve the people of Miami and do what I love every day. I could not ask anything Moyer n me your birthday. A large part of that honor and been due to our mayor. I know time is coming to an end. I am sure GOD has plans for you that will be even grander. From myself and chief Hevia, we wanted to give you our appreciation. You have always been a steadfast supporter of public safety. [Applause] I know that you are and avid cigar smoker like I am. I know these MAY not be your favorites, but they were done with caring and love. They have your own label on them. [Applause] The plaque reads, "Mayor Suarez, your commitment to the city has been clearly demonstrated in your decisions, willingness to partner with our departments. Thank you for making Miami healthy, vibrant, and safe. MAY GOD bless you in all future >> Thank you, chief. This is very timely because I got a new batch of cigars yesterday and ran out of humidor space so it's perfect. As the chief said, and I'm glad my family is here because I'm going to tell stories. I've learned in life that to communicate effectively is to tell good stories in many ways. I'm going to tell a story about the fire department and about the police department. I'm going to try not to get emotional because they involve my family. One day I get a call from someone at my wife's work that my wife was having sort of a panic attack. Of course, it got to a point where unfortunately they had to call 911. The first responders arrived quickly, they were effective, and were comforting her. One of the feeding of the scene was Danny Alvarez. Unfortunately, we lost Danny too young. I remember him getting on the phone and comforting me. You have to understand, Danny was about 6'2" and was a calendar model, like the calendar firefighter models. He's telling me my wife is okay. I said, "I'm not worried about my wife; I'm worried about you being around my wife. " He was a special guy with an incredible smile and personality. He's survived by his brother, the pastor at. T. Teresa Church. I'm grateful for the work that our fire rescue department does every day. I was on scene with the largest fire probably in our generation, or in many, many decades last year. The fire rescue department, I don't think people realize how often they have to go out and attend to, from minor to traumatic things. They have to do that over and over and over again. I have to talk about my police department. When I was about my son's age, I heard a strange noise in my house. I walked into the room where I heard the noise coming from, and I saw two people with guns pointed at my mother's head and at my grandmother's head. As a frightened young boy, when I knew I couldn't help them, my instinct was to call the police. My father jumped into action, helped rescue my sisters and confront the danger. But, literally every single police officer who was probably working in the City of Miami that day showed up at my house within what felt like one minute. What I remember of the story was that they made a human chain elbow to elbow to get my family and I out of our house from a pretty large distance. There were many, many officers who were risking their lives. My recollection was that their backs were to the danger and I was walking through with my family, through the chain link. I could see through their elbows dogs, the police dogs coming through our house to see if the guys were still in the house. That's danger they confront every day. Just two weeks ago, we had two officers shot. One in the ankle, and one I think in the knee area. I think sometimes we don't remember or realize the kind of risk that these people take for the pay that they make. One of the things I'm very proud of is not just every time I see them on the street, which I go out of my way to say hello if they're in the fire department or police department. I love the energy and look in their eyes. They have an intensity and calm about them that to me is from the training they received. Both my chiefs-I'll talk about the manager later, wherever you are. He's hiding like always. Both my chiefs are workhorses, not show horses. I don't know if anyone can understand the difference but I've been around now. I used to not have white hairs, Terry. One of the things I've learned in life, leadership, and running a big organization is you want work horses, not show horses. You want people who put their head down, who put the organization first, who put the mission first, not their own ego, not their own brand, whatever that means. That's what we have here. We have two men who are completely dedicated, all in. There isn't a time in the day when I can't get a hold of them. There isn't a piece of information I can't get from them efficiently and quickly. There isn't an executive decision they make that I don't support. It's never about them. It's not about a camera, press conference, national profile- it's about doing the work and keeping our streets safe. When I got elected I never told this story. I decided that I wanted to run -thank you, baby-I wanted to run a. 9.. Very time there was a homicide in the city exactly 24 hours after. If it was Monday at 3:00am, Tuesday morning I was running. Angela's shaking her head. Tuesday morning, I was running at that exact moment, to the second, a 5k. That would end and begin on that very spot. Because of people like Angela Sears who had to love their child-and if you notice before you go into my office there's a mural by [Unclear] Regan, a mural of African-American children we lost in our community to gun violence. For three months, every single homicide I would run exactly 24 hours, to the second. And to the place it happened. I wanted to send a message. If the mayor had been standing there 24 hours before to the second, I would have been shot. What happened is not normal, acceptable, and will not be tolerated. The fire department which has 1400 officers, 800 firefighters, 2200-2300 people who are fully dedicated to keep us safe and keep us well. Our homicide rate when I got here was somewhere in the eighties. In 1980 there were 220. In 1946 when we started recording homicides, the first year we have records for it, was 31. Last year was 27. [Applause. ] This year we're at 24. We continue to do the work, we continue to work hard, we continue to challenge ourselves, we continue to not accept the status quo. We have an incredible team. I want you to know when you go out there every day, when you see a police officer or firefighter please say hello, thank you, and give them your respect. Thank you and GOD bless. [Applause. ] >> Before we take the picture, Francis, our mayor, he really thinks his family is showing up for the fire chief and police chief, which, yeah, that's really nice. But I as the CHAIRWOMAN Of the City of Miami want to give you the key to the city. [Applause. ] It's not easy trying to surprise this guy. His chief of staff almost got fired because he wanted to do something else. We've been coordinating this. I wanted him to get this key to the city because he has been a fantastic mayor and leader for the City of Miami. [Applause. ] I know. We're on the precipice of getting a new mayor. I want to tell you from the bottom of my heart that you have been the best. I hope that whoever takes the mantle next does well by the city the way that you did. You have brought so much love and light. Your administration is awesome. Our manager, our police chief, our fire chief. All of the workers in all of the departments. That's because you unify us. No matter what's going on, you bring us together. All of us. My colleagues, Commissioner Rosado, Commissioner Pardo, Commissioner Miguel Angel Gabela, Commissioner Carollo. We are not always an easy bunch but he is able to communicate with all of us so that we can get the work of the city done. He has elevated Miami to international status. No one asked me, but if I had to tell anyone, if I had to give you a grade, I would give you an a but not just an. , an. P Honors. . [Applause. ] Thank you and know that you always have the key to our city. I will always, always be your friend. I'm honored to say that because in this journey through public service, you don't meet a lot of genuine people. You don't take away a lot of friends. When you are out of office, your phone stops ringing and people stop answering your calls. But, this guy, I will always pick up his call and I think he'll always answer mine. I'm so honored to be able to do this for you because you deserve it. You really do deserve it. I'm going to turn the. Ic over to every one of my colleagues, because I think they feel the same way. Again, thank you to your service and thank you to your family for sharing you with us. It's a huge, huge comittmnt and sometimes our family suffers for that because you're not as present as you could or should be. My mom, who I don't call enough. The city is better for your service. [Applause. ] >> MR. Mayor, thank you for your leadership, for 16 years of nonstop commitment to the city. As the CHAIRWOMAN Said, thanks to your family. It's a team effort. You did an exemplary job, but it took the entire family to be behind you, at your side, and jj front to make sure you could get it done and give back as much as you did. More importantly, thank you for your friendship for many years. [Applause.] >> MR. Mayor, I want to thank you first of all, as you know we started off bumpy in this journey. I want to say that you have proven to me and to our district and to our residents your strong commitment and care for all of us. There isn't one thing our office did that you did not champion and did not help us create a coalition to be able to pass. From Miami Marine Stadium, from affordable housing that we're trying to pass, things at omni cra, to election reform. I can go down the line of everything we've done for two years. You've been a huge part of it. Thank you from the bottom of my heart, our office and all our residents. I know you will go to do amazing things. The fact that you championed term limits says a lot about you and our governing body, that we are choosing to limit our power in a time when we don't see this anywhere in our country. Thank you very much, mayor. >> I want to sincerely thank the mayor for his work. I wish him good luck. One of the things I admire about you is through the good and bad times you always remain positive, and that's hard to do in this business. I want to thank you for that. [Unclear. ] Very good. I wish you the best, my family wishes you and your family the best. I know you'll go on to bigger and better things, so congratulations. [Applause.] >> I love you, dad. I wish all of you-I'm sorry. I wish we could be here for all of you forever and I wish good luck for the non-extension et's make Miami the best city in the world! [Applause. ] >> Okay. I'm going to try to be brief, and I'm going to try not to cry. As you can see, I'm a crier. First and foremost, I think everyone understands you have to thank GOD and give him the greater glory. [Applause. ] I've been blessed with a gift, which is my faith. Keith in the back knows. We pray together many times. It doesn't mean I'm perfect in my faith. It's a constant battle and struggle, but I've always noticed that the closer I am to GOD the better things are in my life. When you talk about being positive, Commissioner, sometimes it's also about being centered so when tough times come you can also be positive through those difficult times. I was at a father-son mass.. He other day. People always talk about GOD but not the devil. Interesting, right? We're at this mass and Father Willie, the priest and principal for Belem Jesuit where my son goes to school, was saying that in Greek the translation for the word "devil" is divider. He wants to divide us from each other, from our family, from what's good for us, and he wants to divide the city. I've tried my very best day in and day out to bring us together and to unify us. I want to thank my wife and my family. [Applause. ] Very difficult when you have two alpha females in a wife and mom. If you get it wrong you're going to sleep in a different part of your house. What can I say about my wife? She's tolerated me and put up with me for 20 years in the good times and the bad times. You talk about the vows you read at your wedding. She has embodied those vows, she's lived those vows, and has always been committed to those vows. It hasn't always been easy. This is not an easy life. This is not the easy part of my life, I can tell you that much. She has weathered every storm with me, she's been there with me in the best of moments and the darkest of moments. I can say something similar for my father and my mother. He's told me and confided in me that in the past my mother served the same role in his life i wouldn't be here without my wife. She's my partner and best friend. I would not have made it this far. She's seen me at my best and worst. I love you and I'm so gretl ul for you. Thank you. [Applause. ] As you can see from my son, she's an amazing mother. >> To my children, both of you inspire me tremendously. I wake up every day thinking about making a city. .. Whether it's taking care of the most vulnerable. I am always thinking about the next generation. Are we going to have a Miami that's here forever or for everyone? That's what shapes my policies and vision. You inspire me every single day. [Applause] I have my parents, my colleagues, a little list in my head. Similar to my wife, my parents have seen the good, bad, and ugly. They have seen me in moments of incredible triump and followed this journey with me and guided me throughout the journey. They have also been there. To pick up pieces when everything falls apart. You know what unity mean. Feel sorry for the people who have crossed my mother. Some of you have encountered her today. There is no person no loyal to me and what we represent as a family, and she doesn't easily suffer fools. Don't cross her; you will hear it. In terms of my father -- [Applause] In terms of my father -- what can I say? There's a lot I can say. He's my hero and role model. To me, it really comes down to two things. Or three things. Let's go trinitarian. Three things. First. Is his intellect. I don't think anybody can dispute his capabilities. The books he has written. I say I am smarter through osmosis. Just listening to him has improved my iq dramatically. The second thing I want to say is -- you know, my father demonstrated a hyper-ethical conduct when nobody was looking. That was impactful. He reminded me that, yes, somebody is looking when nobody is looking. He had this moral code that he was rigidly affixed to. One day, I got home. I was about Andrew's age. Back in the day, there were these brown cable boxes with a red window to change the channel We came in one day. I turned on the television. We had all the channels. Showtime, Cinemax, hbo. I am like a kid in a candy store. I got to watch all the movies. My dad gets home that day from work. I am overjoyed. I say, hey, we got all the channels. Can you believe this? This is a miracle. His face changed immediately. I could tell he was upset. He literally picked up the phone then and there. He knew the cable company had a franchise agreement with the city. He said, "I pay basic cable, and that's what I want. I don't want one program more than what I pay for. " He didn't have to do that. Nobody would have noticed. [Applause] Nobody would have cared. Then, I think the last thing I want to say about him is, you know, everybody here works hard. When we get home, we're tired. I cannot remember a time that I got home and wanted to play basketball and my dad told me. I can't remember a game he didn't go to. Even if it was in another county. So, I was lucky. My best friend growing up was my father. A lot of people cannot say that. I count that as a massive blessings. My sisters -- we live this alternative Brady Bunch lifestyle. My parents have been married approximately 50 years. 48. I have three sisters. Thayer. E all married thankfully to their first husbands. We live this idyllic family life. I say to people -- I think some commissioners mentioned this. Our support system is critical to our success. Our friends, family -- my friends are not here today, but my friends are incredibly important to me. I have had them since I was 2 years old and others I made in my life. I remember my grandmother who was a very influential person in my life. She told me about her brother Titoe. He wasn't a millionaire, but he had a million friends, and what friend wouldn't give you a dollar. What I can say about all of you, every single one of you -- there's not a colleague I have worked with that I have not learned from. Learning from that person has made me a better person. Whether I like them or not. Every single one of them has been a source of teaching for me Because of them, I'm a better person. I'm grateful for all of you. I love you all. I talked about my chiefs. Now, I have to talk about my manager. Another work horse. It's the number-one lesson I have learned in life. You need people who care about the work and the manumission are not ego driven, that are honorable and ethical. Art embodies all of those things. We were joking that I have only had two me negroes. If it were up to me, I would only be him. He's been a great partner. How hard is it to say "trust" in this business sometimes? He has my back. He understands the role of the mayor and manager. I'm The ceo; he's the coo. He has influence and authority, but he has never made me feel as if I don't have a role to paly. I believe he understands that my authority doesn't come from me but from the people I serve. I guess finally, I want to thank my bosses. The people of the City of Miami. Yes. [Applause] He wants me to tell another story about my dad. We used to get 7/11 and get Big Gulps. Now we get donuts. You got it in there. My bosses, all of you. A lot of people forget history as we live in a 24-our news cycle. When I first ran for office, I will not forget the first poll I looked at. I was at 9%. I had been running for a year. My dad thought I was crazy. I started working door to door I listened. Based on what I heard and what I absorbed, I built a platform. And agenda. This is where we find ourselves today. I still have those shoes. They are Cole Haan's Nike collaboration. They are worn out. I walked to tens of thousands of hours. That fire that I went through forged who I am as a person. There's explaining yourself and selling your vision and convincing people. I was 30 years old. I had no white hairs. I was 30. My opponent who was a commissioner, Commissioner Reyes, was in his 60s at the time. GOD rest his soul. I was elected -- I am going to him after. I was elected by 260 votes. To that city commission. I don't know how many people fit in the audience here. What is the capacity? 108. If I 131 people almost the entirety, I bet if we counted it, we would be at 131. If 131 people changed their minds, I would not be here today I had no intention of running a second time. We confronted a deficient. We cut costs. We didn't fire anybody. Today, we find ourselves with the lowest tax rate in history, millage rate, highest reserves in history, best credit score in history. We have the lowest unemployment in America and highest medium wage growth and lowest homeless rate we have had in 11 years. We will get to 0 in the City of Miami. [Applause] All the while, we have the afest big city in America. We're ranked the happiest and healthiest city in America. I talk about it a lot because i'm proud of this city. This is not a Francis Suc!Rez. This is an accomplishment from my bosses. My bosses were the engine. The people of the City of Miami were the engine of this change. I am very proud of it. By the way, in the world you case number If you could state t, but you cannot dispute facts. You can tell stories to yourself all you want, but you cannot -- are you telling them to op? Are you giving me the hook? Remember what the charter says. Some of your candidates here will remind you. I am going to wrap up before I get hooked. Okay? This is your fault. You gave me that huge key. I can speak forever. I would be remiss if I didn't thank my sergeant at arms. [Applause] Albert Garcia to Alex Lampro and he ones I have now, Stanley, Pierre, Amil, and Andrea. Hopefully, they see me in a good mood 80-90% of the time. 10% of the time, they know to look the other way. They protect me. I love them and lean on them. I draw energy from them. I think they are incredibly professional. I trust them. I put my life and Jelliffe of my family in their hands. I am incredibly grateful. They put in a lot of hours. There are several of them, but there's one of me. I am doing all the hours. They are very gracious it. i don't hear them complain. They are always down for whatever. MADAM Chair, thank you for letting me go on. Oh, my staff. You see? Girl, I'm going to keep talking. Thank you. My staff. My staff -- wow. I almost blew it there. I would have had to go back upstairs. This tie I am wearing -- one of my friends showed up here. It was given to me on my birthday. I want to say happy birthday to Nancy Dawkins who is 102. I love you. I am sorry. I could not be there. This tie was given to me by my staff. I used to take pride and energy -- I work out and try to eat right and get rest. I am always trying to be more productive. One day, somebody told me -- they said you to. E to read The Winner Within by Pat Reily. There's only somuch to getting t out of yourself. We are still will mated. E're one person. If you can get the team to do more, you're multiplying your impact. I have had a phenomenal staff. All of my chiefs of staff have been amazing. [Applause] Carlos is the most liked guy right now in city hall. [Applause] Everybody loves Carlos. I have a great staff. What I have tried to do is inspire them and tranmit my passion to the city. They don't clock in. They work weekends and an incredible amount of hours. This has been a dream come true for me. I am the first Miami-born mayor. 70% of residents were not born in the city. Raise your hand if you were born in the city proper? That's about right. [Applause] About 70/30. I was born in this city. It's been a prevailing of my ife to spend 8 years as the son of the mayor. Hopefully, my children will have memories of my time. I remember my dad's time well, but there was not social media. Now, my kids can see everything we have done. We have chronicled it for the history books. They can go back and see all of it. The beauty of it, Commissioner Gabela, is it's all positive. That's what we'll remember. It's like -- well, my wife will get upset. It's like an ex-girlfriend. I will hear that later. It's been the honor of my life to dedicate myself for half my life. 8 years as a mayor's son. 16 years -- I have been in this building 50% of my life. "What will it feel like/ we at will you do next? " I don't know what it will feel like. One day, I will have to turn off that light and not go back in. That's okay. Next, I am going to hopefully unite myself with GOD's purpose for me. Whatever that is. Thank you. [Applause] >> Yes! >> We have one more surprise. >> Please stay, safe. [Singing] [Applause. ] [Singing] [Applause. ] >> Get your humidor. Ank you all. Thank you all for allowing us to celebrate our mayor. [Applause. ] At this time, we are going to have prayer. Today we have Pastor Kirk Yerby who is going to-where'd he go? He's coming. As is tradition now, and I hope it continues to be a tradition, we begin our meetings with prayer because GOD changes things. Thank you, pastor. >> Thank you. Honor to GOD, to the mayor, CHAIRWOMAN King, all the commissioners, city officials and great people of Miami, bow your heads. Father GOD, we come before you right now saying thank you. We are made to serve with joy and be glad in it. You are GOD and you are GOD all by yourself. GOD, without you we can do absolutely nothing but with you all things are possible. Father GOD, we thank you for this great city, Lord GOD. We thank you for the men and women that you have blessed us with to lead us through this trying time, GOD. We thank you for those that you have given us as messengers and sent them to do your will, your way, and your word. Father GOD, as we continue to move forward we continue to ask you to hold us in the hollow of your own hand, Lord GOD. Keep us in the hollow of your hand, protect us and hold us up. As we go forward, we go forward in your name, your will, and your way. In Jesus' name, amen. [Applause. ] >> At this time we're going to say the Pledge of Allegiance. [Pledge of Allegiance. ] You MAY be seated. Thank you. MR. City Attorney, would you please read your statement for the record? >> Thank you, MADAM Chair. MAY it please the mcc? I city commission? George Wysong, city attorney. Information about the procedures can be found in the city code, online at www. Municode. Com. Any lobbyist must register with the city clerk and comply with requirements before appearing before the city commission. A person MAY not lobby an official, board member or staff member until registering. A section of the code about lobbying is in the clerk's office or online. Any person making a formal request or petition to the commission concerning real property must make disclosures in writing, a copy of which is in the city clerk's office or online. Anyone requesting action by the city commission must disclose any consideration provided or committed to anyone [Unclear. ] Any documents offered to the city commission that have not been provided before the meeting as part of the agenda materials will be entered into the record at the city commission's discretion. In accordance with the city code, the agenda and material for each item on the agenda is at the city clerk's office and online at www. Miamigov. Com. The Miami city commission is a limited public forum. Any person MAY be heard for not more than two minutes on any item to appear before the commission unless modified by the chair. Any person making offensive remarks will be barred from further attending commission meetings. No signs or placards shall be allowed in the commission chambers. Persons exiting shall do so quietly. Members faith. Public wishing to address the commission MAY submit the comment form. The comments submitted through the comment form have been and will be distributed throughout the day so elected officials MAY consider the comments prior to taking action. Additionally, the online comment form will remain open to distribute to city officials, staff, and administration until the chairperson closes public comment. Public comment MAY be provided here, subject to city rules as they MAY be amended. If the item is continued or rescheduled the opportunity to be heard MAY be at a later date. When addressing the commission the person must state their name, address, and the item to be spoken about. Any person requiring auxiliary aids.. Services, etc. Can notify the city clerk. [Unclear] In compliance with section 286. 0114(4c) Florida statute. The public has been given the opportunity to provide public comment. Commissioners have generally been briefed on items on the agenda today. Anyone wishing a verbatim record of an item at the meeting can request it at the office of communications or at www. Miamigov. Com. Pz items shall proceed according to the Miami 21 zoning ordinance. Parties including appellant, appellee, city staff, or person who is a decision making body, or experts testifying, MAY be physically present to be sworn in by oath or affirmation by the city clerk. Members of the city commission shall disclose any ex. Parte communications to remove the presumption of prejudice of the Miami 21 zoning ordinance. The order of presentation shall be as set forth in Miami 21 and the city code. Staff will present the item, the applicant will present their request. The city commission MAY proceed to their decision. The applicant MAY waive the right to an evidentiary hearing on the record. For appeals, the city will present followed by the appellee Please silence cell phones and noise making devices. This meeting can be viewed live and will have closed captioning. Thank you. >> Thank you. MR. City clerk? >> Thank you. The procedures for individuals providing testimony for any items on today's city commission agenda will be as follows. Members of city staff required to be sworn in will be sworn in by me after I explain the procedures. Individuals appearing remotely MAY be sworn in now or before presenting. Are you comfortable with the rules and procedures for this meeting? >> Yes. >> Chair, MAY I administer the oath for the pz items? >> Please. >> Thank you. If you will be speaking on any planning and zoning items, the pz items, MAY I have you stand and raise your right hand? Do you solemnly swear or affirm that the testimony you will give is the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth? Your response is? Thank you chair. >> Thank you. MR. City manager, are there any items on the agenda to be withdrawn or deferred? >> Good morning. At this time, the administration would like to defer and/or withdraw the following items. It's a long list so I'll go slow so you can capture them all. Ca 3 to be deferred to DECEMBER 11th. Re 2 to be deferred to DECEMBER 11th. Re 3 to be withdrawn. Re 7 to be deferred to the next meeting. I'm assuming. I didn't have a date for that deferral but I'll take some direction. >> Let's do an indefinite deferral so we can bring it back whenever we want. >> Okay. Re 17 to be indefinitely deferred. Sr 1 to be deferred to DECEMBER 11th. Fr 1 to be deferred DECEMBER 11th. Fr 2 to be deferred DECEMBER 11th. fr 3 to be deferred to DECEMBER 11th. Fr 4 to be deferred DECEMBER 11th. Fr 5 to be deferred to DECEMBER 11th. . I 4 to be withdrawn. Pz 2 to be deferred to NOVEMBER 20th and pz 13 to be deferred to NOVEMBER 20th. That concludes the items for deferral, withdrawal, or indefinite deferral. There are a couple of corrections that I need to state on the record. Fr 7 will be heard as a resolution, not an ordinance. That was an error in the publishing of the agenda. . I 5, which is the permitting enhancement update on implementation. Of the new permitting enterprise solution is an item from my office and the city manager's item. It's being sponsored by the district 4 Commissioner, Ralph Rosado. >> Thank you, MR. Manager. Commissioner pardo. Any items you'd like to withdraw and/or defer? >> No. >> Commissioner Gabela? >> Give me a minute here. Not right now. >> Commissioner Rosado? >> Yes, I'd like to defer re 12 to the NOVEMBER 20th meeting. >> Okay. >> re 12, you said? >> re 12, the bicycle master plan. These are only deferrals? >> Deferrals or withdrawals. >> I think everything else I was going to request a deferral for has been deferred. >> MR. City clerk, you had your hand up? >> Commissioner Rosado will cosponsor re 7. [Unclear] Commissioner Rosado has a pocket item resolution for district 4 senior rental assistance program. Commissioner Ralph Rosado also has a resolution pertaining to a sale agreement for 2335 Southwest 32nd Avenue. If you'd like, you can have the city attorney read those into the record before public comment. >> I'd like that. Thank you. >> Thank you. . I 1, a resolution of the Miami city commission appointing Damien Pardo as a member of the transportation planning organization for a term. Pocket item 2, a [Unclear] District 4 commissioner share of funds apportioned between the districts for anti-poverty in a total amount not to exceed $500,000 for the d4 senior rental assistance program. [Reading item. ] Including the charter of the City of Miami, Florida, as amended, all in forms acceptable to the city attorney. The use and allocation of the funds are subject to state and local law that regulate the use of funds and the city attorney authorizing the city manager to update the budget, strategic plan, and other documents as necessary and applicable. Authorizing, ratifying, approving certain actions by the city. Manager and city departments to update controls, closeouts, etc. Pocket item 3, a [Reading item] Between the City of Miami and Abel. . Loredo, trustee of the trust seller for acquisition of folio number [Reading folio number] Located at 2375 Southwest 32 Avenue, Miami, Florida for purchase price of $575,000 further authorizing the city manager to negotiate and execute necessary documents for said agreement in a form acceptable to the city attorney, as MAY be necessary to affectuate the acquisition. [Reading item. ] Using park impact fees to cover the cost of said acquisition. . [Singing] Bmn >> This further authorizes and directed the City Manager to have a future land use map amendment on the city's future land use map of the me mi comprehensive neighborhood plan of the Miami 21 zoning code, 13114 of the City of Miami as amended upon the acquisition by the city. Thank you, MADAM Chair. >> Thank you. MR. City Clerk? >> Commissioner Pardo would like to cosponsor re13. >> Thank you. Motion to set the agenda? >> Mooed. >> Second. >> All those in favor -- ? At this time, I will open. The floor for public comment. If you want to speak on any item remaining on our agenda, step forward. Thank you. >> Before you do, I want to cosponsor re13 for the Allapattah cra. >> Wait, I am the sponsor of that? Who is that? >> Commissioner Gabela. >> Am I a cosponsor on that? Uble check. >> I see Commissioner Gabela as the sponsor. >> Me too. Okay. Good morning. >> Good morning. Did I hear correctly that re17 has been permanently removed? >> Indefinitely deferred. >> Why? That's assistance for seniors, rental assistance. I think that's a very, very good idea since they're on fixed income. >> That was done so through the request of the commissioner who put it on the agenda. >> That's Commissioner Carollo. Thank you. Am chaplain Stanley Young. From Charles Hadley Park. 500 Northwest 2 Ave. I am not going to speak on any agenda myself. I want to lift up Lotus House. I have met with the extinctive irector of Lotus House. She has given me a tour of that facility. It's a place of excellence, where women can come and get the help and assistance they need to get their life back in order. It's a place of superb -- I commend you to please Takaie The to Lotus House and see the excellent job they are doing in Overtown. They are really turning that place, that area aroudn and assisting women who have been battered and bruised. They are breathing hope and life back into these women's lives. I am here to support Lotus House today. I hope you will too. Thank you. >> Good morning. Ood morning. >> Good morning. Elvis Cruz. [Unclear] 57 Street. I am speaking to the Watson Island special area plan. This project allows 48-story high-rise condos on land given to the City of Miami to be used in perpetuity as a public yes. But yes, that was approved by voters. I said the developers influenced that vote by spending 500,000 dollars through their ad. Campaign. That was wrong. The public documents show it was actually 6 times that. 3. 4 million dollars. The voters say a misleading ad. Campaign. It showed a family walking by a palm tree without a condo in site. Why do you suppose they did that? Did the average voter know what they were voting for? Miami 21 section 391(. )(10) Says it shall be allowed as long as the height distribution is not our of scale/character with the surrounding area. Watson Island has 2-to 3-story buildings. The standard floor height is 10 feet. This building could be 386 feet tal. . Commissioner Pardo sponsored it. It would be so nice if the City of Miami cites parks as sacred ground rather than seeing them as vacant lots to enable developer profits. >> Thank you. Good morning. >> Good morning. Javier Fernandez here as Mayor of South Miami. Thank you to Commissioner Rosado for the invitation to address you all. Congratulations to Commissioner Carollo and the Mayor on their conclusion of their work with the city. I also wanted to encourage you to adopt sr4. Thank you for bringing that forward. I am here to speak on resolution 7, the urging that Commissioner Rosado has advanced regarding a property tax exemption for seniors. I think this is an obvious solution. We adopted a similar urging that has now been memorialized. I encourage you to send the messaage. O Tallahassee to help our seniors stay in jirhome. Mes. It's an issue. Code exemptions are far too low given the escalation of taxable values. We can all absorb this. I look forward to your support of the item. Thank you. >> Thank you. Good morning. >> Good morning. Thank you, Mayor Fernandez for urging fr7. This welcomes your universal cosponsorship to expand this program. This allows us to help our vulnerable seniors stay in their homes. They can exempt themselves, and this can help them. I suggest that you direct the manager to identify who these residents are. Just because we pass this doesn't mean the residents know it. If you can work together with the property appraiser and tax collector, you can identify which seniors [Class asking pay city taxes. Thank you for passing this today. >> Thank you. Good morning. >> Good morning. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Miami will celebrate their work in Miami. We can all relate to friendship. Through our programs, here are the facts. The United States department of treasury reports that our organization mentoring is one of the most cost-effective solutions. Mentoring closes the opportunity gap. Being a Little closes 2/3 of the economic gap. We served over 2600 youth and family in the City of Miami and Miami Dade County. Bottom line, our Littles need exposure, support, and a friend. I am pleased to have standing with me today major corporations like jp Morgan Chase, Marriot, business leaders, parents, mentors, Bigs and Littles, and staff. As I close, we MAY come from different walks of life and speak different languages. At the end of the day, we all have a little in common. >> Wow, he stole my thudner. I will support what he said strongly with great enthusiasm. Thank you. Oracio Stewart, volunteer vice CHAIRMAN Of the Bayfront Park Management Trust. This is a unique jewel. We are talking about 60 acres, This is much more than an extraordinary park. This is a good-sized business by anybody's Standfields in orida, an international event venue, a park for reflection, for meditation, for exercise, and to fall in love with life. It takes a unique staff to operate Bayfront Park. It takes skills to make this what it is today. Bayfront Park is tomorrow's future for Miami. I would be delighted to meet with you to tell you where we are today, where we're going today, and why we should remain the managing organization. I look forward to hearing from you. Thank you. >> Thank you. Good morning. >> Good morning. My name is [Unclear], from [Inaudible]. It is a true honor to stand here to address you. [Talking too quietly].. .. For bringing me here to speak with you all. Ttq... Ng too quietly]... Into a direction where I can thrive and explore. Standing here, I have become what I am today. Part of the team. Part of the dream. As a staff member, I have seen the community thrive in this program and seen the support. . [Talking too quietly] This is a great honor. I am proud to be part of this organization. [Unclear] Grow and trhive. Thank you. In story. Ank you. Good morning. >> Good morning. Eric Knowles, PRESIDENT Of Miami-Dade chamber of commerce. Before I get into fr6, I guess I woke up on the right side of the bed this morning to see another Red Raider. Thank you for that. I didn't know if MR. Elliot and his wife would be honored today. I'm his new neighbor. I stand here with Mr Broadway to speak about fr6, the clean zone. I want to talk about the opportunities not being seen for small businesses here in Miami Dade County. In the state of Florida, there are 315 million small businesses. In Miami Dade County, there are 80,000 with over 50,000 employees. 800,000 micro businesses with less than 10 employees. Our opportunities are lost each and every day. [Unclear] Has come to us. We are not seeing the opportunity. I am asking the City of Miami to look into that and make sure we have businesses that will benefit. The money will come and go away. Our businesses will lose out. I want to make sure that you stand before those bodies and ensure that we are being taken care of. As they come and walk away with millions of dollars. Thank you. >> Thank you. >> I want to cosign that. >> Hold on. Take turns. >> Good morning. Od morning. I am [Unclear], the director of hr representing the [Unclear] Hotel Group, representing Marriot International. We have 5 properties in Miami. This is about passion and partnerships. You heard Gale speaking. His passion makes you want to do things. MR. Mayor was talking about passion This is what our partnership is about. We are raising our unc. Lear]. This organization has brought a lot of support to our youth. We do it with our group because it's cool when [Unclear] No? You know these individuals are going to reach places. This is what we're here today. Our role as corporate partner is to make money and to support our community. By our supporting the school-to-work program, we're able to look towards our future and build those individuals and give those the same passion we have in our roles. This has been a partnrsph that arted over 15 years ago. We host about 50 Littles. It takes a little to be big. Thank you. >> Thank you. Good morning. >> Good morning. Very happy to stand here on behalf of The naacp. We look forward to making sure we get our fair share of the jobs. Thank you, CHAIRWOMAN, for making sure they know we do deserve the jobs. We're the small people that make this place run. He works for us. Like the man said earlier. I did the right thing by making sure he became our mayor. We worked together as a team. That was the best thing, I think, I had a hand in. Look at what it came out to be. Look how greaet a MADAM Become. He fixing to become my next PRESIDENT. [Unclear], when you are up here, you're getting a key to the city. >> Chair, speaker's name? >> We need your name. >> Bradway Harwood. >> Thank you. Good morning. >> Good morning. Constance Collins speaking on behalf of the Lotus Endowment Fund and Lotus House on item p4, Thank you to you all for your favorable consideration. This proposal is for the childer's village at Lotus Village. You're seeing some images of the village just completed this month. We're just. Moving in right now to the children's village. Lotus House will anchor this project. Providing therapeutic support for children and youth. We will be joined by 13 other nonprofits who will call the village their home in the aim of providing wraparound support. We aim to serve over 2500 chidlrn. And families on an annual basis. We have a grand opening scheduled for NOVEMBER 6 at 4pm. Everyone is invited. I Hopeau all will attend. D. Thank you for your sparapet It was a heavy lift, and we appreciate the help. Lastly, shoutout on ph7 for Big Brothers Big Sisters. Thank you. >> Thank you. Good morning. >> Constance -- >> I am in support of re I stopped by to let you know I support that. A person who grew up in the area and has seen nothing but negativity in the area. I appreciate everything they've brought to the neighborhood in making sure that our kids are safe on that street, working with law enforcement, working with the mayor and commissioners to make sure that everything you do is a success. You make sure that every kid in every ethnic group receives something every single Christmas. We the community appreciate and support the naming of the street. [Applause. ] On the other hand, I want to say GOD knows I'm going to MISS You. You have been the biggest supporter to Florida parents of murdered children. I call you in the morning, I call you in the middle of the night. You're right there. You've never said no. Our breakfast goes on every year because of you. I want to say thank you, I'm going to MISS You and we will definitely maintain contact. >> Thank you. [Applause.] >> I want to take one second for commissioner Gabela to say what he just did quietly. >> No, no. >> It's important. Go ahead. >> Thank you. Well, my wife and I support your organization. We think you're doing a great job for the community. While you're here, I wanted to give you a check because you're here. Thank you for what you do. We appreciate it. Thank you, MADAM Chair. >> Good morning. >> Good morning. My husband and I would like to combine our time if we MAY. Good morning, Mayor Suarez and CHAIRWOMAN King, and all of our distinguished commissioners here today on the dais. We are the Elias. We are here today to thank you for your consideration of the item in front of you,. E 5, the item of naming Northwest 68th Terrace and 15th Avenue Elias Way. My husband, Terry Elias single runoff. . Iven over 25 years of service to the area's underprivileged children and families. We have done this not because we have to but because we want to. We've always strived to be the change in our community that we want to see. By you acknowledging us for this honor for all of the work we've done in the community, we hope this inspires our children who have been boots on the ground since the day they were born right there with us in the trenches, even during covid, that they see that this is a great legacy to carry on our family name with dignity, honor and respect. Giving all glory to GOD almighty. I ask everyone that showed up here today with us to please stand. [Applause. ] Thank you to all our dear friends, our community members, and especially the matriarch of our family, MISS Ruby. D. Wilson [Unclear. ] We could not be here without you today. >> Protocol was established. Mayor, I want to tell you you've been with us in Liberty City for 18 strong years with the parade. You and your son. We want to tell you thank you. You heard the thank yous from them but this is from the community. We love you and appreciate everything you do. CHAIRWOMAN, you followed his footsteps and you've been a strong CHAIRWOMAN. You keep up the good work you've been doing. To all our friends who took time to wake up this morning [Unclear] My karate instructor, my cousins, my family, my brother Billy Elliott back there I want to tell you all thank you for waking up to come here today. Lieutenant, thank you for coming. We appreciate that. We love you all. To the board, thank you for honoring us because now we have something to look forward. Elias did it, we can do it. Thank you very much. >> Thank you. [Applause. ] Good morning. >> Good morning, CHAIRWOMAN King, mayor, members of the commission. My name is Carlos Martel. I'd like to ask your superroot r Bayfront Park Management Trust, which I am a manager of. I served under Commissioner Carollo for a year and now I serve under Commissioner Gabela. The trust is working very well and does not need to be fixed. I think we've been doing pretty well and I'm encouraging you to support the trust. Thank you. >> Thank you. >> My name is Lorenzeo Whitehead. I'm speaking here on Terry Elliott's behalf. I haven't been here in a long time. I was one of the first Coconut Grove commanding officers on the police department. I retired 34 years, I retired major. i've been knowing you for a long time. I used to be in city hall a lot, working. Now I ride horses at my ranch. But, Terry Elliott is like my son. I started training him in karate when he was eight years old. Him and his wife. Chief Jiminy allowed me to continue the program in liberty Square where kids I trained see crime scenes and are able to go home and maintain their grades. We need to plant better seeds to have better trees. The mayor, his best friend and his brother, they're two of my black belts. The assistant chief of police, Chief Butler, she started training when she was 8 years old. She used to watch my motorcycle when I was in the City of Miami police department. We don't have the answer but I think the answer is in the room if we put our heads together. Thank you. [Applause. ] >> Thank you. Seeing no one else for public comment, the public comment period is now closed. MR. City clerk, I believe you have more announcements. >> Thank you, chair. Commissioner Pardo would like to cosponsor pz 14 and Commissioner King would like to cosponsor ph 4. >> Gentlemen, at this time are there any items you'd like to pull for discussion from the ca items? From ca 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, or 8? >> No. >> Commissioner Pardo? Commissioner Gabela? Commissioner Rosado? Vice chair? Okay, MAY I have a motion- >> So moved. >> Second. >> I have a motion and second for ca 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8. All in favor. >> Aye. >> Motion carries unanimously. Gentlemen, with the ph items are there any you'd like to pull for discussion from ph 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, or 7? >> No. >> No. >> Commissioner Rosado? >> No. >> Vice chair? Y I have a motion? >> So moved >> Second. >> All in favor. >> Aye. >> Motion carries unanimously. >> Thank you. Congratulations. . Gentlemen, on the re items that remain are there any you'd like to pull for discussion? Commissioner Pardo? >> No. >> Where are we? >> re from 1, 4, 5, 6, 8, 10, 11, 13, 14, 15, 16? >> Yeah, I want to defer re 10 >> To what date? >> Next commission meeting. NOVEMBER- >> 20th? >> ok. MAY I have a motion to defer re 10 to NOVEMBER 20th? >> Motion. >> Second. >> All in favor? >> Motion carries. >> MADAM Chair, did you skip re 9? >> No. >> I don't believe it was deferred. >> Okay, well re 9 is in play. >> If anyone wants to discuss it, I think we've deferred it three times. It's a matter of voting up or down. >> I have a question. At the last meeting- >> Do you want to pull it for discussion? >> Yes. >> We'll pull re 9 for discussion. Are there any other items you'd like to pull for discussion? >> re 7. >> That's been indefinitely deferred. >> Okay. >> MADAM Chair, I'd like to pull re 16. >> re q16? >> Okay. Any others? >> re 7 is indefinitely deferred? >> So we can bring it back whenever we want. >> Okay, let's see. [Unclear. ] Apologize. I got a call and a favor today I'm doing the best I can. >> Pull your microphone a little bit. >> Very well. Which items did we pull on jj re? >> re 2 is deferred until DECEMBER 11th. Re 3 has been withdrawn. >> Okay. >> re 7 is indefinitely deferred. >> Okay. >> re 12 has been deferred until NOVEMBER 20th. >> You missed re 10. >> re 10- >> We just deferred it. >> re 10 is deferred to NOVEMBER 20th. Re 7 is indefinitely deferred. >> Alright. >> We have pulled re 16 and- >> 9. >> And re 9 for discussion. >> Okay. >> So, MAY I have a motion for re 1, re 4, 5, 6, 8, 11, 13, 14, 15? >> Motion. >> Second. >> All in favor? >> Aye. >> Items pass unanimously. I think Commissioner Rosado has a question on re 9. Mmissioner Rosado? >> Yes, I believe at the last commission meeting we talked about deferring it so we could do a workshop but the workshop didn't t