[0:01] >> good evening, everyone.
[0:05] welcome to our chambers again. Today
[0:11] is tuesday, december 20th . The time is 6:0 8:00 p.m.
[0:17] , and we are going to commence our city commission meeting. Badham
[0:19] clerk, can you kindly call the role?
[0:26] >> board member fleurimond? >> present.
[0:29] >> board member smith?
[0:31] >> here. >> board member smukler?
[0:35] >> here.
[0:38] >> board member joseph? >> here.
[0:41] >> mayor anthony defillipo? >> here.
[0:50] >> you have quorum. >> thank you. Will call up
[0:52] the baptist church to give our implication.
[0:56] >> may we bow.
[0:59] everlasting father, we
[1:05] pose first of all to give thanks for guiding us
[1:09] throughout the day , and being able to assemble
[1:13] here this afternoon. As your blessing upon the agenda
[1:18] , commissioners, and the mayor , may you climb
[1:22] the wisdom of understanding, that we make decision for the
[1:26] betterment of humanity , for standing of life , giving you glory.
[1:33] such an honor to be made in your image and likeness that we
[1:36] can create ideas and bring about changes
[1:42] that were enhanced for the betterment of life. The ask god that you
[1:47] bless us and bless also the participants, those that are sharing in and
[1:54] giving suggestion . We acknowledge you and all of our
[1:57] ways. May he ever present be with us. Amen.
[1:59] >> amen.
[2:00] >> thank you very much, reverend burke. Will the
[2:03] following please stand on behalf of
[2:08] skyler bock, who will lead us here in the
[2:12] pledge of allegiance?
[2:27] >> I pledge allegiance to the flag of the
[2:28] united states of america and to the republic for which it stands one nation
[2:33] under god indivisible with liberty and justice
[2:36] for all .
[2:42] >> thank you, skyler.
[2:48] and thank you. I know we have our principal here from fulford
[2:50] elementary. If you kindly stand up and
[2:52] be recognized. Thank you for all of your hard work in our community.
[2:56] thank you, again, skyler. Good work.
[3:00] all right. We will move on to number four,
[3:05] which is our request for withdraws, deferments, or any additions
[3:08] to the agenda. Badham clerk?
[3:10] >> mr. Mayor , per the
[3:12] request of board member smukler,
[3:18] item 1.94, which is the marketing campaign for tourism for
[3:21] international trading and transportation , the item
[3:27] will be pulled for discussion . It will be heard before legislation.
[3:33] item number 9.15 is being deferred to the next meeting
[3:39] , and that item is approving the interlocal agreement for administrative
[3:42] services with the community agency.
[3:48] per commissioner smith, a discussion item
[3:51] between conflicting city event scheduling will be added as a discussion item,
[3:57] which will be 15.6.
[4:01] and those of the only changes that I have, sir.
[4:06] >> okay.
[4:09] I would also like to ,
[4:16] do we have a mayors discussion which I would like to move up after we do
[4:21] the consent agenda .
[4:36] okay?
[4:39] >> yes. >> all right. I need a motion ?
[4:42] >> aye.
[4:47] >> commissioner, sorry? >> I would like, mr.
[4:49] mayor, with your permission, to move the discussion on the financials of
[4:51] our city up so that it is not the last item
[4:54] tonight knowing that there is a cut off at midnight.
[4:57] >> okay. I 15.5?
[5:00] regarding the finance?
[5:03] >> yes. >> okay, you want to move that up?
[5:06] you want to do that after consent?
[5:08] >> wherever you would like.
[5:14] >> 15.5? >> after the mayors? >> after the mayors discussion.
[5:18] >> okay. It's very important that we get that finance
[5:21] out of the way.
[5:24] are we good? I need a motion in a second
[5:30] to adopt the agenda.
[5:32] >> I make the motion. >> second. All in favor?
[5:33] >> present. >> aye. >> aye.
[5:35] >> all post? >> opposed. >> let the record be known that
[5:39] we have 5-1.
[5:41] okay. Now we have our presentations.
[5:44] we have our first presentation is coming from
[5:48] board member smukler and board member fleurimond , and probably
[5:51] all of us appear.
[5:56] >> absolutely. >> at my name, please.
[5:57] >> please.
[6:06] >> all of our colleagues can join us.
[6:21] test, test, one, two.
[6:24] we would like to invite the mayor and her husband two,
[6:30] .
[6:49] you never know who is watching you. I
[6:53] must say that I have been watching you for
[7:00] some time. Her involvement in her contribution
[7:07] -- her contributions to me a
[7:12] civil government , and also to the board --
[7:22] [ indiscernible -low volume ]
[8:10] >> you see this woman here?
[8:13] she is a role model.
[8:16] I want to be you.
[8:20] when I and my career, I want people to say that she is
[8:25] just like her. The kid around many times , so you would
[8:31] be my mayor. So, thank you for being an inspiration , thank
[8:37] you for supporting me , and thank you for being here.
[9:01] >> [ indiscernible -low volume ] anybody
[9:30] that is anybody in dade county schools did something for her because they
[9:40] needed her.
[9:46] [ indiscernible -low volume ]
[10:07] >> so, recognizing eden wiseman
[10:13] is a community advocate and public servant
[10:19] with the rest of miami-dade county schools for the principal and
[10:28] --
[10:37] >> whereas she was the first woman elected as chair of the hospital
[10:43] at the center board of trustees and served on the executive board
[10:46] of new world school of the arts, and was honored as a champions
[10:49] of the citizens interested in arts for her commitment
[10:52] to preserve the visual arts in south
[11:00] florida, and --
[11:07] >> whereas mayor wisner received the esteemed woman award
[11:10] for miami-dade county for her professional development
[11:18] with response ability, leadership, vision for contribution to this progress,
[11:22] and promotion --
[11:28] >> on the office of the
[11:34] miami-dade campus as part of a diverse group
[11:40] of civic business leaders acting as grant ambassadors
[11:46] and leading a community network achieving community,
[11:49] and promote and develop strategic fundraising goals .
[12:08] >> whereas mayor edith wiseman was the first elected mayor
[12:14] . In 2012 , families and businesses prospered
[12:20] and thrived earning respect, praise, and admiration
[12:26] in the state of florida.
[12:30] now therefore we, the mayor and commission of the great city of north
[12:33] miami beach, florida do hereby proclaim december 20th, 2022
[12:38] , as mayor edith wiseman day
[12:44] , wow! To recognize her years in service of dedicated
[12:49] and devoted public service. And it goes way beyond
[12:51] that. High standards of ethical governance , and visionary leadership
[12:56] caution in the city of aventura.
[13:02] .
[13:07] I'm going to pass the microphone to mayor wiseman
[13:11] in a moment, but I would just like to say from one family to another,
[13:19] we have worked so, so, so many years together.
[13:20] I can only tell you that
[13:26] when she me shut up and listen, I shut up and
[13:29] listen. You know what I mean, you know?
[13:34] but she has always been a great mentor , she has always been a great mentor,
[13:38] a person I look up to, a person who I take much advice from
[13:43] , and truly a dedicated leader to her city , and to all of the cities
[13:49] in miami-dade county and everywhere , because she
[13:53] has played a role in so many lives all
[13:57] over miami-dade county. Thank you for your service.
[14:05] >> so, you know, you never give apologies , even a
[14:11] retired politician .
[14:17] I hope everyone of you get the experience that I am having tonight
[14:23] , because all of us touch lives as we pass through this life. And there
[14:26] is something I want you all to do. Is to take a moment
[14:29] to look around you. You did not
[14:35] get there by yourself. There are people behind you that lifted you up when you
[14:38] were down, that stood by you when you did not feel
[14:43] like you had a friend in the world.
[14:47] look behind you.
[14:49] you miss what is really important and relevant in the
[14:52] world today. I have to tell you, being a north miami beach is very much
[14:56] like being home. All of the schools in the city reported to
[14:58] me. Maria rodriguez, the proud principle of fulford,
[15:04] the chum the people just have not discovered
[15:07] yet, but is one of the most amazing, beautiful schools you can imagine
[15:10] . With one of the finest leaders that I know.
[15:13] and I will say that of all of the schools.
[15:21] your mayor could not have said it better. All I ever
[15:24] had to do, because there is a lot more we have
[15:28] in common than what separates us.
[15:31] weather is sustainability , or compliments,
[15:34] or both , too little to make much of an impact
[15:40] , unite and come together .
[15:44] as he said, commissioner, quality and equity are two different words
[15:46] with two different meanings, and they're both very, very important.
[15:49] one phone call and what your mayor would
[15:52] say is all you have to do is call. All you have to
[15:59] do is ask. I never say no to you.
[16:01] and I will tell you that that is my relationship with every
[16:04] person appear. We say yes to each other.
[16:10] I don't think of things ventura, I think of things
[16:13] for northeast data.
[16:16] you have touched my heart and touched
[16:22] my soul.
[16:25] I can't thank you enough. I really can't. And I wish everyone
[16:28] of you the best
[16:33] to all of you. Happy holidays, christmas, kwanzaa, hanukkah, whatever it is you
[16:34] celebrate, let the celebrations reach out
[16:40] to somebody who does not know about your
[16:42] celebration so we can have a teachable moment.
[16:46] I thank you from the bottom of my heart. Thank you.
[16:59] >> mr. Mayor?
[17:02] mr. Mayor? I just want to personally thank
[17:06] dr. Wiseman. She was detrimental hurting the first school
[17:11] , which we negotiated years ago
[17:16] , and she helped create a new community.
[17:19] thank you for being a friend and a mentor.
[17:20] >> and I'm a principal and a teacher
[17:26] --[ indiscernible - low volume ]
[17:37] again, when I say this feels like home, it
[17:41] feels like home.
[17:44] sometimes, we don't get along.
[17:47] it is true , but it does not mean that we are not wanted.
[17:56] I wish everyone the best.
[18:44] >> our next proclamation is for --
[18:50] on behalf of the executive team .
[19:02] so, this club has been very instrumental in our team
[19:06] , and over the last two years, we've been able to
[19:11] partner to see this year and last year --1000 books
[19:17] .
[19:23] the best way to find yourself is to lose yourself .
[19:32] is the largest use
[19:38] organization --the lives of children, one
[19:44] community at a time , such as fighting disease --to reduce poverty.
[19:56] >> whereas local chapters and clubs, including northeast miami-dade
[20:02] have raised essential funds and developed crucial service
[20:08] and projects to have a positive impact and influence
[20:10] on the children by nurturing them , and providing
[20:14] the support they need to strive.
[20:23] >> whereas qantas north miami-dade has a proud history
[20:29] giving service to children since 1957.
[20:35] from babies to readers, and teens to leaders, with
[20:40] value of the qantas past president ,
[20:44] known for his tireless advocating.
[20:56] >> whereas northeast miami-dade has hosted and
[21:00] sponsored many significant projects and events regarding youth, service leadership
[21:05] , scholarships, reading programs, book
[21:07] parties, literacy concerts, backpack and dictionary giveaways, and
[21:11] baby showers.
[21:14] >> and whereas qantas north miami-dade leaders
[21:21] in the early childhood committee to help build important life skills
[21:27] and foundational first years of the child partnership with
[21:33] schools and businesses .
[21:36] >> now therefore we , the mayor, and the commission for
[21:39] north miami beach claim december 20th, 2022
[21:45] , as north miami-dade day to honor and
[21:50] recognize the dedication and commitment to
[21:52] children's and families throughout the self for
[21:56] the community within the city of north miami beach.
[22:06] >> I just wanted to say thank you.
[22:11] we look forward to an ongoing partnership.
[23:06] >> next item, 523
[23:15] , secure underground program --
[23:22] >> thank you, mayor, commissioners.
[23:24] david scott, department of public works city
[23:27] of north miami beach. It is my pleasure to
[23:29] introduce this project to you . We have a
[23:33] wonderful relation with pnl, and that is an ongoing relationship.
[23:36] we call each other whenever the need
[23:41] arises, we work together, as you know commissioner and mayors
[23:45] , that we were closely whether it is a hurricane, whether it is a
[23:48] storm, or just cleaning up the city
[23:56] with regard to sustainability. So, they have been a great
[23:58] partner with us, and continue to do so. We have regular meetings with
[24:00] them to go over any issues that would continue
[24:03] the coordination. One of those projects I came forward I think is very important
[24:06] for them to present to this commission and share it
[24:10] with our general public. So, with thoughts, we have amy
[24:15] with us from fp and l , and she will continue with the presentation. Amy?
[24:24] >> so, I am not amy, but before she comes up
[24:29] , good evening, everyone. My name is christopher,
[24:33] I am the external areas affair manager for the for the light company.
[24:39] I wanted to come up are? And is that
[24:42] you know that we appreciate the opportunity to present on this program with you.
[24:45] at fpl, we are always working to deliver america's most reliable grid. Just
[24:48] last week, we removed the last transmission pull from our
[24:53] fpl legacy system here in the peninsula.
[24:54] we are towards the end of our hardening program
[25:00] , and this secure underground program is going to
[25:03] be working in neighborhoods working on neighborhood
[25:04] lions to improve service. I mention all those three initiatives
[25:09] , because that is the way the electric grid works,
[25:12] right? There is the power plant, it since
[25:15] over the to listen lines to your neighborhood through your
[25:19] lateral or neighborhood alliance, right? So, it is our pleasure to be
[25:24] here today. With that, I will turn it over to amy to walk into
[25:27] the presentation, and then we will take questions at the end. Thank you.
[25:33] >> before we continue, I want to go ahead. I know
[25:36] we had some people walk in, some guests. I know we have the
[25:39] former mayor barbara kramer, former commissioner
[25:42] barbara kramer that is here. I was looking at
[25:45] mayor wiseman and thinking of barbara kramer.
[25:53] we also have with us former councilman david templer. Thank you for joining
[25:54] us this evening. Go ahead. Thank you,
[25:55] amy, I am sorry.
[25:56] >> thank you so much. No, we appreciate the time and
[26:00] the collaboration and continued support that we
[26:02] have with the city. My name is amy, and amended the customer outreach
[26:06] for the storm secure underground program across the state.
[26:08] as david mentioned, we have already had many collaboration meetings with
[26:10] the city.
[26:15] so, this is a continue communication to make sure
[26:17] that you, as well as the residence, are informed. Now is christopher mentioned
[26:19] --to hear an echo to? Think it is a little
[26:22] -- okay.
[26:27] hopefully someone fixes it. I will continue.
[26:28] the storm secure underground program as part of our
[26:30] larger initiatives to really build that strong and more resilient
[26:34] energy grid. The initiatives that you see on the screen
[26:38] are actually many of the items that are part of our store
[26:43] protection plan that help us improve the reliability of customers
[26:46] across our entire service territory. So, after all the historic hurricanes
[26:49] that we have had in the hurricane season, we started
[26:55] this journey.
[26:56] after hurricane irma, we had actually seen a significant improvement in our
[27:01] restoration time , but we still saw that even
[27:05] though we had implemented a continuous tree trimming and full inspection service
[27:12] , even though we had been improving with our hardening program, we
[27:15] saw had more areas to improve and to grow. Many of those areas were
[27:16] actually in our lateral system where we were
[27:20] trimming vegetation, but we still had an excess ability ,
[27:23] or there is still vegetation that was causing impacts to the system.
[27:26] with that, the storm secure underground program was born after hurricane irma
[27:31] , and the reason why we are coming to tonight is because
[27:34] portions of the city of north miami beach have actually
[27:37] met specific criteria to be able to receive this
[27:42] underground benefit at no up front cost of
[27:45] the customers. So, the reason why it is
[27:48] important to us to provide this benefit or to actually can mitigate this benefit is
[27:55] because we as a data-driven criteria to actually identify
[27:58] those neighborhoods and those projects that essentially
[28:01] will be converted first.
[28:04] so, we looked at the powerline performance during previous storms, such
[28:08] as hurricane irma, hurricane matthew, michael.
[28:12] we also looked at the outage on those lines specifically due to vegetation,
[28:14] and we looked at the outage and performance on those lines
[28:21] just on day to day operations. So, these three data points combined over
[28:23] the span of 10 years actually allowed us to pinpoint those areas across
[28:28] the state that actually need this program. We
[28:30] are here today because portions of north
[28:33] miami beach meet this criteria. We have already been doing work
[28:35] within the city of north miami beach, but we are continuing to grow and
[28:37] bring this benefit to more sections. So,
[28:43] it is a large undertaking , and that is why it is so important
[28:46] for us to the continued partnership with
[28:49] the city . We want to make sure that it is clear
[28:52] that we undergo a significant outreach process with our residents
[28:55] to make sure that they understand exactly
[28:58] what this program is , who we are,
[29:03] and what exactly this will mean to their property, right? As a property owner,
[29:06] I want to make sure you understand, right? I don't know general construction
[29:07] if I'm just an average resident. I want to
[29:10] make sure that is important. We really start with what is called our conceptual
[29:13] design. So, looking at the engineering parts. What is the
[29:16] optimal design of this underground project ? Where would
[29:19] transformers really go if it is inoperable in our
[29:26] best case scenario? And we turn it over to our customer outreach teams.
[29:28] my team essentially starts mailing letters
[29:31] letting residents know that they have been selected
[29:34] for the program . Our selection criteria is based on the
[29:37] reliability data of the feeders.
[29:39] in the specific city, there are multiple the feeders .
[29:43] we target specific areas.
[29:45] and then, we start doorknocking. We start making phone calls
[29:48] to request easements to place equipment on
[29:51] the property , and let the customers know exactly what
[29:55] is going to take place.
[29:58] because we are needing customer easements to
[30:00] actually bring this project to fruition, you will see the reaction of
[30:04] a small portion that is also our final design. So, our initial
[30:07] design and our final design may differ, right? Depending
[30:12] on the location so we have been able to secure, but also, after
[30:14] actually understanding any constraints of the projects, any national boundaries,
[30:19] are there any issues we did not see initially when we first started
[30:22] looking at the project?
[30:25] finally, with reach the final design, we actually
[30:28] go into our permitting stage.
[30:30] that is where there is a significant partner ship with the city,
[30:33] right? Want to make sure that we bring as much awareness so you understand
[30:34] the volume of locates that we might have
[30:37] to call. You understand the volume of permits
[30:40] that we may have to request , and you understand really the construction
[30:43] process and ultimately, we also collaborate on any of the city improve the projects
[30:46] that you may be having, right? So, we are construction
[30:53] in the right-of-way, we want to make sure that we understand
[30:55] any rogue improvements as well that you may
[30:58] be doing. Ultimately, the following year , which in the project over to construction,
[31:01] which on average can take four to six month
[31:05] depending on the size. I want to mention that throughout the customer
[31:08] outreach process , we mail specific communication to the
[31:13] property owners.
[31:14] so, it is important that residents understand all of the communication
[31:16] goes to the property owners. The information
[31:19] that we send , almost flyers, if you
[31:26] will, the collateral, it is in english and spanish, and actually, after feedback
[31:28] with our initial meeting with the city of north
[31:30] miami beach, we have actually translated the fact
[31:32] sheets to creole. So, we now have it available in three languages.
[31:37] so, the big aspect. What work are we actually
[31:39] doing within the city? We have actually already
[31:41] completed work since the program's inception a few
[31:46] years back . What you see on the screen is the number of
[31:49] overhead miles that we have converted, and then the customers
[31:51] benefited. I do want to clarify that the number of customers is actually
[31:58] households, properties. So, if you look at your old
[32:01] household, it could've four individuals or five. The impact of the benefits
[32:04] that we bring to the city of north miami beach is much larger than just
[32:07] what you see on the screen.
[32:11] now, we are in active construction, and that is why david mentioned we
[32:14] have already been on the ongoing partnership, but what I do want to point our
[32:19] attention to is that, as you look at what we
[32:23] have previously completed, we are doing in '22, and ultimately, what
[32:25] we are going to start doorknocking and essentially
[32:27] designing in '23 and ultimately for p
[32:29] 24 construction, it is continue to increase in volume, right?
[32:34] we went from a mile, to four, to five. As the program continues
[32:37] to grow , since is a
[32:41] decade-long project, you will see that the volume of work will continue
[32:43] to increase. Not only in the city of north miami beach,
[32:46] but across the state.
[32:48] of course, for this, it is important for us to continue
[32:52] the ongoing collaboration. Now, I want to just show some high-level
[32:55] maps, and we can certainly follow up with an email after this. I
[33:00] know it might be a little bit tough to see this on the screen.
[33:02] this is a general area of the current work that we have. So, this is the
[33:07] 2022 construction.
[33:10] as well as the 2024 construction that we will be starting to do outreach
[33:13] in 2023. We did highlight the entire project stuff
[33:16] all within the area. However, there are small portions
[33:22] of those projects that fall within miami-dade county jurisdiction . But,
[33:25] we still just wanted to show you the high-level
[33:28] volume that you have any general neighborhoods. So, as
[33:32] a visual representation, I give you all this information of selection criteria
[33:36] , fact sheets, letters, borders is actually look like for
[33:40] a customer?
[33:42] I want to bring attention to the before and after pictures. On the
[33:44] before, you typically see the average arial transform. That's typically
[33:46] the back of your home. You have a pull
[33:51] , you have some type of green cylinder box, and then you
[33:54] have this line that is running to your home. That is the
[33:57] service line collecting into the meter can.
[34:00] that is the average before picture.
[34:01] some properties and neighborhoods may
[34:03] have those lines in the front of the property as long as
[34:07] the reliability criteria is on
[34:12] that meter, it would still be eligible for the project. So, that is I have
[34:14] anything to do with the selection.
[34:16] however, once we have obtained agreement, we have
[34:19] selected the program projects, you can
[34:21] see the on the after picture, we would remove that arial
[34:25] transformer, and actually replace it with
[34:26] a high mounted transformer in the front of the property. So,
[34:30] that is the number one change. We remember from the back to the
[34:33] front to make sure that it gets accessible for us to service throughout the
[34:37] life of the piece of equipment , but also,
[34:40] to minimize --
[34:43] >> so, if somebody has a transformer in their backyard , they will have
[34:46] a transformer in the front yard?
[34:49] >> that is correct.
[34:55] now, not every single home is going to need a transformer.
[34:58] just like right now, we might have in arial transformer on the back of
[35:01] every single property, we are just requesting
[35:03] easements to be able to place those pad mounted transformers in the front
[35:04] of the properties, absolutely. Now, in
[35:07] the event that there any other utilities on that poll
[35:13] , we would top that poll since we are only
[35:15] underground in our fpl electric lines.
[35:16] a second piece of equipment that you will notice
[35:20] is the small connection to the meter box that essentially allows
[35:29] the service to actually be received from underground. So, two pieces of
[35:31] equipment, you can see that, of course with us
[35:33] in proving the reliability, it is also important for us to improve the
[35:35] excess ability.
[35:36] this avoids any type of future interruptions to customers whenever we have to
[35:40] service that equipment. It is our pledge as well that
[35:42] we have to restore the property to its original condition
[35:47] . We want to be very respectful of the homes, and we do have a dedicated
[35:50] team that addresses any of those issues.
[35:53] now, one of the largest aspects that has been important for
[35:56] us as well is making sure that residents know
[36:01] exactly who is knocking on your door, right?
[36:03] there could be many sales individuals, solar companies, whatever the case
[36:06] may be. We want to make sure that a resident is aware
[36:10] of who is knocking. So, beyond the initial
[36:12] letter that introduces the program , beyond phone calls, we also knock
[36:17] on doors , and what you see pictured is what the average
[36:19] customer outreach specialist will look like. So,
[36:24] they haven't fpl approved contractor vest, they will have some type of fpl logo
[36:28] uniform to edify them as a proper individual , and you also haven't fpl issued
[36:32] badge. If there is ever any question from customers
[36:41] -- I was thinking my time was done!
[36:50] I am almost done, I promise, I promise.
[36:59] so, we got the vest, we have the fpl uniform,
[37:02] we have the fpl badge. A customer every
[37:03] specialist might also have an ipad to take note of any customer inquiries.
[37:05] we can also pull customer information and
[37:07] take note of any property conditions.
[37:10] if there is any types of concerns on whether the individual is a
[37:13] valid fpl representative , customers can actually contact the
[37:16] number that is listed on their fpl bill , as
[37:18] well as on the letter that would have been mailed to the
[37:22] property owner. For the work starting in 2023, we
[37:26] expect outreach to start as early as january. So, you can expect
[37:29] some of this work to begin soon.
[37:32] >> just to highlight something that you said
[37:35] real briefly , whoever is going to have work being done in their house
[37:38] or in their backyard will not
[37:42] just get something in the mail, they will get a call?
[37:45] for bulky medication?
[37:46] >> that is correct. We try to have at least
[37:50] three different types of touch points.
[37:53] the first one is a customer letter that gets mailed
[37:56] to the property owner, the second one
[37:58] is a phone call to try to set up a type of in
[38:02] person appointment and affordable month
[38:03] program. If we don't receive that, that we will go to doorknocking
[38:08] as well. So, three different touch points to
[38:09] make sure we committee with every customer.
[38:11] >> I have a question. >> go ahead.
[38:14] >> no one is going to be going inside the
[38:16] homes?
[38:16] >> that is correct. There is no need to go inside
[38:18] the property.
[38:18] >> it is very important that dataset as well.
[38:20] >> absolutely.
[38:21] >> so many things are going on nowadays
[38:23] , everyone is very cautious.
[38:24] >> absolutely. That is a very good point, mayor. Of course,
[38:28] for us, it is crucial that we look at the condition of the meter,
[38:30] we look at the arial transformer, we look at the overall property
[38:34] for constraints. But nothing that we service is
[38:38] really inside. So, we would not have to
[38:41] go inside the property, yep.
[38:43] so, just as a high level to understand the construction aspect, we
[38:46] as a method called directional boring that helps us minimize the interruption
[38:50] and disruption to not only the property, but also
[38:53] the general city.
[38:59] so, we can go as deep as 36 inches, so about three feet, and this helps
[39:02] us avoid any type of tree root systems, any
[39:06] other utilities that may be underground.
[39:08] this is the reason why we call for locates and have to partner with the
[39:11] city, because we want to make sure that
[39:14] we properly identify and mark whatever is underground.
[39:16] however, with this, we are able to avoid open trenching. Instead of opening
[39:17] up and uprooting
[39:21] the entire for dictation, landscaping, whatever the case may be, we as directional boring
[39:25] to help us in initialize that. We do this in
[39:29] the right-of-way.
[39:31] in the furry picture, you see that you have the home, and then you
[39:34] have the grass and the sidewalk. That is still within the private property.
[39:35] up until that sidewalk is where he would
[39:38] potentially place a pad mounted transformer. They work with
[39:41] the property owner to of course move that
[39:46] into a location that is acceptable to them, but also to us from a
[39:49] construction perspective. But then, the directional boring takes
[39:52] place in the right-of-way, which is why we need permits.
[39:58] we do have additional resources if any residents have any questions or if
[40:01] any of you have any questions as well.
[40:03] we do have our no own fpl
[40:07] website where customers can look at asked questions, media events, previously
[40:09] completed projects, as well as the communication that
[40:11] will be emailed or mailed, it's easy.
[40:15] if there is any interest in any of our other underground programs
[40:18] that are more city or municipality started , then there
[40:21] is a separate website for that. I do
[40:24] appreciate the time . We are here for
[40:28] any questions. We are more than open to continuing to come back, especially
[40:30] as we continue with outreach.
[40:31] >> I think we will have some questions, and I
[40:33] think it is important if we can get that number
[40:36] and that email link , and be able to have
[40:42] it on our website if anybody starts looking for that
[40:45] information.
[40:46] >> absolutely. >> they will find it
[40:49] on our website as well.
[40:51] >> absolutely. >> commissioner smith, you had your hand up?
[40:54] and commissioner chernoff?
[40:56] >> I did.
[41:00] you said that if the poll has other wires on it from something
[41:03] from a different company , are you reaching out
[41:07] to try to tempt it so you can eliminate those poles completely?
[41:10] >> we have had ongoing conversations with the other utilities to communicate
[41:12] on the transfer ownership
[41:16] about our underground efforts. Unfortunately, every single utility is at
[41:21] their own discretion.
[41:23] I can tell you that we have made contact and we committee with them on
[41:26] the ownership of the actual ownership of the poles, but
[41:30] beyond that , you know, I can't speak to anything.
[41:32] >> who's poles are they? Electric?
[41:33] the telephone? Who's poles?
[41:35] >> it may vary.
[41:39] I will tell you though that if that
[41:42] poll was originally owned by fpl , and we remove our electric lines,
[41:45] we would still maintain ownership
[41:50] until there is any other type of agreement or discussion with
[41:52] other utilities. We understand that is a significant concern for the city
[41:55] and residents.
[41:56] >> my other question is , and some of
[42:00] those areas , we hope to one day not have septic tanks.
[42:06] so, you are placing of this, are you being aware where
[42:11] the septic tank is? Because we are going to try
[42:15] to tie up to the sewers.
[42:17] as you are doing this, trying to follow that plan
[42:19] as well?
[42:20] >> you know, I can't speak to that specifically, but I
[42:23] can get back to commissioner.
[42:24] >> okay.
[42:25] that is a very important thing.
[42:30] >> commissioner david scott, public works. Absolutely, that is
[42:32] one of the reason we have ongoing commitment meetings.
[42:35] we have all of our partner agencies in that room
[42:39] with us.
[42:42] water is there, code is there, of course, public works and any utility
[42:45] that is looking to permit within the right-of-way . Our
[42:48] goal is to coordinate our current work
[42:54] . Of course, we don't have one agency going and digging of the roadway,
[43:00] and then come right back and have a conflict later. So, that
[43:03] is our purpose for bringing fpl into these
[43:05] meetings, as well as it those other utilities, yes.
[43:11] >> that is very important. You know, I had experience with moving
[43:14] that box. I have had experience in the past. Somebody wanted to
[43:18] purchase a home, and they did not want the box in their backyard.
[43:21] so, the way worked at the time is you can move
[43:27] a box if you pay for it, and you find somebody else who was willing
[43:30] to take it on their property. So, my question is
[43:33] as you move these to the front , is any
[43:36] landscaping going to be done?
[43:42] anything to not go down the sidewalk and look at
[43:45] these boxes? Anything at all incorporated in this?
[43:47] >> sure, that is a for concern.
[43:51] before I fully answer your question, I
[43:53] do want to clarify that every single property is a potential location for
[43:57] a transformer.
[43:59] until it's not. Essentially, we have to run calculations
[44:06] on how many homes we can actually feed from one transformer.
[44:09] one of our goals is to make sure that it
[44:11] is as efficient as possible , and we don't have a
[44:14] transformer in every single home, right? Aesthetically, that can be
[44:16] a concern for customers. Now, we actually defy
[44:19] a viable location, and we have agreement from a resident, we work
[44:22] with them to of course move it to probably the left or right
[44:25] side of the property to be able to minimize the visual obstruction
[44:28] if there is any type of vegetation that may
[44:32] be requested by the customer. Initially, there is that customer's expense.
[44:38] but if there is any concern, we like to handle it.
[44:40] on a case-by-case basis.
[44:41] >> I must say, it is a big challenge. Fulford
[44:46] does not have large lots. Many of them have
[44:49] the garage or carport, or their driveway where they park
[44:52] , and in the park another car between their property line
[44:58] and where the car is parked on their driveway. So, if you put one
[45:01] of those boxes there , they are not just going to have
[45:07] a different look to their house, they will also lose the parking place.
[45:10] >> absolutely. I think you bring up a
[45:11] good point where sometimes, those areas that may be the most
[45:16] highly populated and condensed are really those that need it the
[45:22] most. So, we have been working very hard to
[45:25] ensure that we continue bringing those benefits and look to the constraints
[45:28] that are faced with in that property , because you're
[45:31] absolutely correct.
[45:32] it is a constraints, but I think that is one of the ways that
[45:35] we try to make sure that we still deliver this benefit
[45:39] , and try to understand what solutions are feasible even
[45:43] with those issues.
[45:44] >> I, for one, appreciate it very much. My last question is when
[45:47] the money dries up for the ones you have currently identified as your
[45:52] starting point , will you be expanding
[45:58] so that we can try to get the community underground?
[45:59] >> I am so glad you asked that question.
[46:03] so, I can actually share that as of october this year. During
[46:07] hurricane in of all times, we received full approval
[46:10] on the for the public service commission to
[46:13] have this as a full vetted project. When we initially started
[46:16] after hurricane irma, you're in a pilot stage. We were learning
[46:25] and development this. We now have full approval to continue with
[46:27] this program moving forward. Now, I can tell you
[46:29] that, because we are regulated by the for the public service commission,
[46:31] we file on an ongoing basis to ensure that
[46:34] we show what products have actually been
[46:36] selected based on the reliability criteria, and then we
[46:39] go back and say hey, this is what we actually completed what we
[46:43] are actually able to accomplish.
[46:46] so, we have full intent to continue moving forward with underground all
[46:49] 5.7 million of our customers if feasible.
[46:51] >> and what is currently on the table right now, when is the completion date?
[46:54] >> it is expected to start construction in 2024
[46:58] . If we receive full customer agreements as well
[47:01] as permits.
[47:03] >> something a wonderful plan, and I wish you could get the other utilities
[47:06] to agree so there is everything underground.
[47:07] that is a nice goal.
[47:08] >> thank you, absolutely.
[47:11] >> thank you very much.
[47:13] >> you had a question, commissioner ?
[47:16] >> thank you. I appreciate your bring this forward. My question was answered
[47:21] , one of them, but when the rest of the city would get
[47:24] it. You are thing that we all will eventually. All of the six parents
[47:26] the hurricanes and everything, but this is more to the city manager and
[47:31] the city.
[47:34] can we do a job or a better job of making sure that cable,
[47:37] anyone else on that line, telephone can all
[47:40] coordinate with fpl's that we don't rip it up
[47:46] multiple times?
[47:48] >> yes. As the public works director stated, right now, we
[47:51] are involved in all of them in the meetings, so we will continue
[47:55] to do so. Thank you.
[48:00] >> commissioner smukler? >> thank you,
[48:01] mr. Mayor. The stop is commenced, we know that. The oak grove area,
[48:05] I have seen a lot of this work already being done
[48:09] . In the boxes, you know, a lot of these homes,
[48:12] the driveway area , and the front yard area
[48:15] is not really that spacious.
[48:20] these green boxes, although they may be more efficient as far as, you know,
[48:21] restoring power and et cetera
[48:27] , they are a little bit of an eyesore in people's
[48:30] front yards. But, I have seen a lot of the work
[48:32] being done already. What I would ask is that
[48:37] , you know, you commented that all of these holes , and then there is
[48:40] just dirt and rock. If we can
[48:46] speed up the process of, you know, making the swells look better
[48:51] , and putting grass where it needs to
[48:53] be, that would be the ask, because that is what I
[48:56] am noticing when I try that particular neighborhood, or those neighborhoods.
[49:01] and I think aside from that, there was another
[49:04] question that I had as well relating to fpl, but not this
[49:07] particular project. When you guys are bringing in new polls
[49:11] --you don't have an answer?
[49:13] >> I don't, but I can address that really
[49:16] question related to restoration.
[49:18] >> okay, let's
[49:19] do the first one.
[49:20] >> agree completely on the restoration.
[49:25] it's frankly quite transparently one of the challenges that we face,
[49:28] because when we are actually doing directional
[49:31] boring and under growling the intersection of the neighborhood, it is not just,
[49:34] you know, one home, two homes. It can be a significant portion of a
[49:37] neighborhood or an area. Restoration for us takes place at the end of the project
[49:42] , because then we are looking at sod, we are looking at what concerns
[49:46] or maybe , and we want to address everything
[49:50] at once. I do appreciate the feedback, and if there's anything we can improve
[49:52] on this year, we definitely welcome it.
[49:57] I will turn it over to chris, and maybe he can answer the other question.
[49:58] >> I had another question about the boxes. If there is opportunity
[50:04] to make them an art project or something
[50:07] like that? I don't know what's, you know, where your purview is over that,
[50:10] but I see certain utility boxes that are in, you know,
[50:16] on an intersection, like a north miami for instance , they have
[50:19] an art project that they started over there were
[50:22] these utility boxes are covered with, you know, very good
[50:25] art from different artists.
[50:29] I was thinking I might be something that you would want to consider. And
[50:34] then, for the next question , I can ask christopher.
[50:36] >> I think christopher is
[50:38] a guy for those two things. Thank you, happy holidays.
[50:40] >> no pressure.
[50:47] >> so, every member couple months ago, I never thing I wanted to talk
[50:51] to. I am noticing that as we drive, you know, throughout this region that
[50:53] there are new polls being erected.
[50:57] however, the older polls are being cut,
[50:58] and not totally removed.
[51:01] it is almost excessive to see all of these polls, sometimes
[51:07] two or three poles back to back. Most of the polls that are being
[51:10] cut in half don't have any function. Sometimes, what you are
[51:12] doing with these polls is you are just attaching
[51:15] some sort of a metal object to it, and running the line,
[51:18] running the one of the lines through it to seem as if
[51:22] it has some sort of a use.
[51:25] but, my question is overall, are you planning on removing
[51:28] these polls completely?
[51:31] or is that the way you guys are planning on moving forward
[51:34] with these poor placements?
[51:36] >> sure.
[51:36] if I can go back to your first question
[51:43] , and then into the second one, and finish with the third, so, any restoration concerns
[51:46] or complaint that you receive, you can forward
[51:48] them to myself, or staff can also reach out to the
[51:51] account managers assigned to north miami beach, and we will get it to
[51:57] the ssu btm to address it right away, right? As weekly
[51:59] as he can, right?
[51:59] >> you've done that before, I know .
[52:01] >> we try to
[52:03] do if it can be addressed right away because we are so in construction
[52:07] and we need to go back to that location for whatever reason, we can
[52:10] indicate that back, but we will make sure
[52:12] they have it on their punchlist so they do a before they close
[52:15] the project out. In regards to the transformer boxes , we do have
[52:18] a program that has some rules and regulations in terms
[52:24] of putting a covering on it. We don't cover that at our cause. It would
[52:27] be something that the city would have to cover if you
[52:30] do choose to move forward. But, as a preset number of designs that
[52:33] are approved to ensure that we can identify our boxes and it outage.
[52:34] the last thing you want is a crew out
[52:37] there patrolling a neighborhood in the dark trying to find a box and
[52:40] not be able to identify it, and then it has
[52:44] to be certain material that is, for safety
[52:47] reasons, on the equipment, right?
[52:49] and I can get more information to either mr.
[52:51] scott or to the city manager's office about the program, and then the last
[52:53] question regarding the polls , the new polls
[52:56] that you see being installed
[53:01] are for the feeder lines, right? When I first
[53:03] came up and talked about transition lines, then there is the feeder lines,
[53:05] which is like trunks, and then you have
[53:08] the laterals, which is what ssu p is addressing.
[53:15] her towards the end of that feeder hardening program. We are placing
[53:18] all the older women and concrete polls with newer, stronger ones that are
[53:20] built to or designed to maximum building standards
[53:24] , right? Make sure they don't fail, if we do need to do repairs,
[53:28] we don't have to replace the whole line of
[53:32] polls, right?
[53:33] what you are referencing is called dole polls, right? When you have a
[53:37] pull, and we replace it, there is a pnl
[53:41] . There could be at&t, the could be broadcast
[53:46] , there is a whole number of utilities in the telecom
[53:48] industry that you attach to our polls as well.
[53:51] what happens is when we come into install a new one, we will first
[53:54] transfer our facilities over, that includes the wires, insulators,
[53:57] switches, transformers. We will then cut the old pole right above where
[54:01] the telecoms travel , and we will then notify
[54:04] those of the utilities to then transfer over.
[54:09] some of them are more responsive than others to move over in a
[54:12] timely manner. Recently, there was some legislation passed in tallahassee
[54:14] to place and time constraints on that , and we
[54:18] are trying to work through that with our partnering utilities
[54:23] to move faster. But, our ultimate goal is to remove all of
[54:26] the dole polls, the old polls
[54:31] , once they are what we call free and clear.
[54:33] there is nothing left attached to them. So, you did mention that there
[54:35] are symbols that are free and clear. If
[54:38] there are some that are in the city, you can pass those to myself,
[54:41] or staff has identified them. You can
[54:42] send it to the account manager, and we'll get them to the hardening team,
[54:47] which is a different team from amy, and we will get this removed
[54:50] right away.
[54:52] it is our goal to remove every dole pole once they are free and
[54:55] clear.
[54:56] >> thank you, we appreciate it. Any other questions for mr. Christopher?
[55:02] no, he had gotten his question answered when you asked. Okay.
[55:07] listen, I hope you keep us updated with this project as
[55:13] it progresses. I know all of us are very anxious to see this
[55:17] take place.
[55:19] I know the residents of eastern shores will be ecstatic
[55:26] . For decades, we've been waiting for those
[55:29] polls, because the other ones mean so much,
[55:31] they look like they are going to already come down on your car. But,
[55:33] you have our full support, and we look forward to seeing your team out
[55:35] in the field, and working together with staff
[55:38] to ensure that they are informed of what is going on so nobody
[55:43] takes advantage of any residence.
[55:45] that is very most important.
[55:46] >> thank you,
[55:48] and a preachy the supporting words.
[55:50] one thing that we have found successful in the I highly encourage to if you
[55:53] would welcome it is we can come back and give an update
[55:56] just before we start construction so that, even
[55:59] though we are having to mitigation with the
[56:02] city staff , we would love to be able to
[56:03] give it directly to you as well.
[56:05] >> that would help.
[56:08] >> thank you, happy holidays. >> thank you, christopher, thank you. Okay,
[56:11] great presentation.
[56:17] all right, folks, we are going to move on
[56:19] to public comment at this time. Another, that is the next item.
[56:26] I'm sorry, one second, madam clerk. Commissioner
[56:28] has a question.
[56:28] >> madam clerk, could you refresh
[56:31] my memory what was pulled from the consent agenda
[56:35] by commissioner smukler please?
[56:37] >> sure. It is nine point one for , one second. Yes.
[56:42] >> and 9.15. >> number 15 is deferred.
[56:47] >> deferred? Okay.
[56:48] mr. Mayor?
[56:48] >> go ahead.
[56:52] >> principal public comment? >> yes, please.
[56:56] anybody wishing to speak in public comment, please kindly come up
[56:59] and put your name on the list. If you would like
[57:02] . We have a list appear.
[57:07] >> good evening, everyone. The mayor commission of the city of
[57:10] north miami beach has opened the meeting for public comment.
[57:15] there is a three minutes time limit for each
[57:17] speaker. Speakers will be called to the
[57:20] podium. Please state your name and the
[57:21] organization what you're presenting.
[57:23] the mayor commission of the city of north miami beach
[57:25] recognizes the importance of civility.
[57:27] the city of north maybe beach requests that everyone
[57:29] in attendance to exercise civility towards each
[57:32] other at all times . Our first speaker is
[57:35] emily pons, and the norman axle men.
[57:42] >> folks, out of respect and time for everybody,
[57:45] we will hear everybody speaking. There is no booing, there is no applause.
[57:48] we are here to just hear the comments and move forward.
[57:53] as public comments, so it is not interactive.
[57:54] so everybody knows,
[58:02] you can't come appear and ask questions and expect us
[58:04] to answer them back. If you do have a question, and it is in
[58:07] your statements, we will have staff try to address it on the side of it
[58:12] is something that we can do right away. Go ahead, speaker.
[58:15] >> thank you.
[58:17] >> you can bring the microphone down to use we can
[58:19] hear you. Don't be embarrassed.
[58:21] >> you
[58:21] hear me clearly?
[58:22] >> a little bit closer.
[58:24] >> hello?
[58:25] oh, okay. Now?
[58:26] >> yes.
[58:31] >> okay, thank you. Good afternoon, mayor, commissioners
[58:36] . First and foremost , thank
[58:40] you for the opportunity to participate today.
[58:42] >> speaker, positioning for
[58:44] the record?
[58:45] >> yes, sorry. My name is emily pons,
[58:51] lavon 1870 northeast 157 three . I am here
[58:57] to address some recent incidents that have occurred
[59:00] in my neighborhood. On november 21st , on
[59:06] 158th street and northeast 15th place,
[59:11] I was shot several times. On november 22nd ,
[59:14] the same house was hit again, this time , over 30 shots were fired. On
[59:21] november 23rd, the day before thanksgiving, our residents
[59:24] at the intersection of northeast 18, and
[59:30] 158th street was shot nine times. On of them are 30th
[59:33] , a house on 158 , halfway between
[59:39] northeast 18th and northeast 19 was shot 15 times in
[59:45] the middle of the night.
[59:48] on december 10th, several shots were fired
[59:51] in taylor park around 1030 at night. This
[59:57] is apparent that must clearly demonstrate a need for additional
[1:00:00] safety protocols alongside a greater police presence
[1:00:03] in the neighborhood.
[1:00:06] there is a community of individuals that
[1:00:09] deeply care about these issues.
[1:00:11] many of whom have felt neglected in the
[1:00:14] past years by the local government and law enforcement.
[1:00:18] we are now requesting a formal meeting in which the topics of police present is
[1:00:24] streamlining traffic control measures such as speed bumps and
[1:00:30] better signage .
[1:00:33] we, as a community, want to be better informed about the efforts the city is making
[1:00:38] to ensure an acceptable level of public safety , and
[1:00:41] we would like to be given process --
[1:00:45] progress updates on the time forward.
[1:00:54] let's show those that believe real change is
[1:00:57] not possible that it is. I believe the time is
[1:00:59] right to fix the lack of follow-through that has left many residents wary
[1:01:03] in the past by addressing these issues head-on, and
[1:01:08] continuing until we are no longer afraid of
[1:01:11] going out side at night. Thank you so much.
[1:01:15] >> mr. Manager, can the police chief or somebody
[1:01:21] come up and address this? Because I've got
[1:01:24] to tell you, I do know that my colleagues, but this is
[1:01:25] definitely something on my concern that has been going on for quite
[1:01:27] some time.
[1:01:28] >> yes, definitely. Chief?
[1:01:31] >> obsolete. Good evening, mayor and commission. We
[1:01:34] are aware of
[1:01:40] the recent high visibility in the crime areas, and what has taken place
[1:01:46] to take care of these incidences that
[1:01:49] have been happening in the city. As soon as we realize that there is an
[1:01:52] uptick in this type of violent crime, we neatly put
[1:01:57] a detail together.
[1:01:58] we have put out technical teams, we put out our a 13 team,
[1:02:04] we did it around the hours of this type of crime is
[1:02:07] occurring. He reached out to our local agencies,
[1:02:10] miami-dade county, miami gardens, north miami. We are all experiencing
[1:02:13] these types of crimes in our city. The target person
[1:02:19] was actually the one that these shootings were taking
[1:02:22] place, we have received leads.
[1:02:24] we are working those leads actively.
[1:02:28] we are also prepared to go ahead and do a pack
[1:02:32] meeting, which is called police and community together
[1:02:35] to get out there, because our concerns are the safety of
[1:02:39] our residents. I am actively using every resource in my power
[1:02:46] to protect our residents.
[1:02:48] I have already immediately put out different details
[1:02:52] so that we can combat this.
[1:02:57] we have taken three guns off the street since that
[1:02:58] time. We have made several arrests. So, we are doing
[1:03:01] everything we can, but we can't do it alone. We have
[1:03:06] to have our eyes and ears of our residents to call us. I
[1:03:08] have also put out undercover units.
[1:03:10] so, we are trying to find who these people
[1:03:13] are that are creating these types of crimes, but
[1:03:16] I need the citizens help. So, if you are
[1:03:19] afraid, you can remain anonymous , you can call
[1:03:23] crime stoppers, you can also call me directly , and
[1:03:27] we can will do whatever we can to get out there and protect
[1:03:29] our citizens.
[1:03:30] >> and those number so they can call?
[1:03:33] >> for crime stoppers is
[1:03:37] 305471 tips . Directly for me is 305949
[1:03:43] --it's easy, 305-948-2995 . That is directly to me.
[1:03:51] with your permission and your approval, we would like to go
[1:03:54] ahead and set up a pack meeting in that area, which is considered
[1:03:58] zone five , if you guys want to discuss a timeframe
[1:04:01] later, we will be ready to prepare it. We will get out there
[1:04:04] and get the notices to the neighbors to make sure that we have a full team
[1:04:07] at that time.
[1:04:10] >> thank you. >> you are welcome.
[1:04:13] >> I recommend that we let the manager set that up, and
[1:04:19] let them be visible to not only the neighbors,
[1:04:22] but to here with the neighbors have to share with you.
[1:04:25] >> excuse me, mayor, thank you. You know, there is a time
[1:04:28] where we are having the pack meetings more
[1:04:31] often, and it kind of stopped.
[1:04:36] so, if not just in her neighborhood, but if we could start
[1:04:39] them up again in the different neighborhoods, especially the ones that were missed?
[1:04:40] >> absently. We usually try to have two
[1:04:43] meetings per zone each year. Usually goes
[1:04:49] according to the crime track.
[1:04:54] something like this, we are prepared to go ahead and set up
[1:04:56] that meeting.
[1:04:56] >> please do. And then the other neighborhoods. Thank you.
[1:05:00] >> okay. Any other questions towards the chief on this manner?
[1:05:08] okay, thank you very much, chief.
[1:05:12] all right, madam clerk, next speaker?
[1:05:15] >> norman axel mean, and then irene belanger.
[1:05:21] >> I currently leave it
[1:05:27] 17 east 10, right on the block. I begin I
[1:05:30] will say that I think have an inalienable right, I will try to pronounce that correctly,
[1:05:36] is a tough word for me. To live in peace entering
[1:05:39] quality. Unfortunately, time and time again all
[1:05:41] throughout the year, I believe that wright is being infringed upon because
[1:05:45] of this.
[1:06:04] people all over the blocks were I live are having these gigantic
[1:06:07] amplifiers lasting muni at any time of the day or night.
[1:06:12] it is extremely, extremely disturbing , and it is not just
[1:06:17] holidays, it is a most anytime of the year . I've called the
[1:06:20] police out numerous, numerous times ,
[1:06:23] as I'm sure some of the officers probably recognize me. The police, of
[1:06:27] course, I have to say other side have been
[1:06:31] very commendable , and I've also talked to the city manager
[1:06:33] about this, and the police chief recently, because I think there needs to be
[1:06:37] something done towards enforcement of the issue.
[1:06:40] every time I complain about a noise issue , I'm I
[1:06:44] was told time and time again, there's nothing we can do. We can call
[1:06:46] code enforcement. Code enforcement is not there at 11:00 at night or
[1:06:49] 1:00 in the morning. There hearings and other things
[1:06:52] , and I don't know if I can remain anonymous, which is
[1:06:55] very important for my safety. I just want to quote very briefly from
[1:07:00] the city ordinance one, noise, no one
[1:07:04] can operate photographs or other machine devices
[1:07:07] producing sound in such a manner to deserve the peace, quiet,
[1:07:10] or comfort of the neighboring inhabitants.
[1:07:12] that is me. Or, at any time, it says that
[1:07:16] any time without a volume necessary of convenient
[1:07:19] hearing for the person in the room.
[1:07:25] the ordinance is very clear. Anytime is not
[1:07:27] just 11:00 at night, 7:00 in the morning, that is specifically
[1:07:30] plainly audible distance of 100 feet.
[1:07:32] that is what is between 11:00 and 7:00.
[1:07:36] so, I would like this to be addressed.
[1:07:37] I believe it would help many, many residents in the city.
[1:07:42] I have been inside my home with the doors closed, windows closed, easy running,
[1:07:45] may be a fan or two, and I can still hear this blaring and horrible
[1:07:48] base sound, which sounds like this, okay, I
[1:07:52] will not do too much , but it gets to be extremely disturbing
[1:07:56] and annoying. People might want to rest, they might not be feeling well, and
[1:08:00] I hope that this can be further addressed.
[1:08:01] >> 15 seconds. >> I spoke to the police chief in
[1:08:05] the city manager, and hopefully we can continue this discussion. Thank you.
[1:08:10] >> thank you. Thank you, norman. >> irene belanger?
[1:08:16] and then coleman led dusky.
[1:08:21] >> out of respect, it is notice we have a state
[1:08:23] representative joe kelly are here with us.
[1:08:28] and I see hiding in the back but he will not
[1:08:31] get away from me , representatives benjamin is back
[1:08:34] there, right? All right. Thank you, representative. It is good to see you.
[1:08:37] thank you. Go ahead.
[1:08:38] irene, I am sorry.
[1:08:39] >> that is fine . My name is irene belanger, I am
[1:08:43] a resident of the city.
[1:08:48] I just want to welcome the newly elected and re-elected commissioner. There's
[1:08:49] a lot of work to do.
[1:08:55] so, speaking on the consent agenda
[1:09:01] , mr. City attorney, I find that you not apply roberts rules of order well
[1:09:04] or consistently during these meetings.
[1:09:07] if any commissioner wants to discuss or have a vote on an item, it must,
[1:09:15] according to the rules, be moved to the regular agenda or tabled for
[1:09:19] another meeting.
[1:09:22] I have also witnessed this process applied
[1:09:23] differently depending upon the commissioner.
[1:09:25] you are paid more than any city attorney we have ever employed
[1:09:28] . Too bad you don't seem to do your job. On december 29th,
[1:09:34] it will be six months since I made a public record request
[1:09:40] . It appears the government works very
[1:09:41] differently than the business world I am familiar with. I would not have
[1:09:46] a job if I mean my boss or colleagues wait more than
[1:09:52] a few days for information. Mr. City manager , isn't
[1:09:57] it your job to make sure processes are in place
[1:10:00] to allow for the flow of information?
[1:10:02] even while tacking on fees
[1:10:06] to discourage requests, you feel no obligation to make sure
[1:10:10] that there is transparency in city government.
[1:10:13] during the election, somehow, city codes
[1:10:15] were applied to only some of the candidates while others flaunted the law. The
[1:10:19] buck stops at the city manager's office
[1:10:22] for some people being given
[1:10:28] preferential treatment.
[1:10:31] and our favorite topic in the city, garbage, our city manager negotiated
[1:10:36] a terrible contract for the city.
[1:10:37] we have talked about the limited size of bulk trash pickup, even if
[1:10:40] only one house in five puts out debris, they will
[1:10:43] only pick up 22 cubic feet in front of
[1:10:46] the one house. This makes no sense.
[1:10:56] should we spread the bulk trash around our streets to get a
[1:10:58] picked up? The city manager is going to hire
[1:11:00] more people , and throw more money at garbage collection
[1:11:04] . Why are we paying for recycling when it is a myth?
[1:11:09] I personally saw both garbage and recycling dumped
[1:11:14] into the same truck , and a coastal employee asked why
[1:11:17] we care about recycling bins when it
[1:11:20] all goes to the same place? Progressive cities
[1:11:26] not only recycle , the even pick up food scraps separately
[1:11:31] for composting . Imagine north miami beach being so progressive.
[1:11:38] that is it.
[1:11:41] thank you.
[1:11:47] >> next person is --I am sorry if I miss pronouncing.
[1:11:56] my apologies.
[1:11:59] >> good evening.
[1:12:00] I am a senior citizen.
[1:12:02] >> speak into the microphone so everybody
[1:12:05] can hear you.
[1:12:06] >> okay, I try. I am senior citizen , and I enjoy
[1:12:14] this city. First of all, I want to thank you to the commission
[1:12:17] for the wonderful job.
[1:12:22] job towards the city, towards the children ,
[1:12:26] and us seniors.
[1:12:28] we benefit from that, and we really appreciate it.
[1:12:35] talking about coming here, we are a little concerned how
[1:12:39] the senior program will function.
[1:12:44] and, if we will have the same activity
[1:12:47] that we had last year. Because we lost commissioners , so we don't
[1:12:52] know know who is going to represent us in
[1:12:56] helping us with the activities.
[1:12:59] otherwise, again, thank you for the wonderful job
[1:13:02] , and you can count on us , whatever we can
[1:13:05] do, we will do for the city.
[1:13:10] thank you, and happy, healthy new year.
[1:13:11] >> thank you. Commissioner smith, are
[1:13:13] you here?
[1:13:14] >> she ran away.
[1:13:17] >> I wanted to talk to her. Please, our
[1:13:21] new liaison, she's getting her phone updated with the wi-fi.
[1:13:25] >> we wanted confirmation that you would be taking care
[1:13:28] of us.
[1:13:28] >> I haven't heard.
[1:13:32] I've talked to younger people on the commission.
[1:13:35] >> that is wonderful, that is what we need.
[1:13:38] thank you very much. God bless.
[1:13:44] >> one other information, for those of you who
[1:13:45] don't know, this is a holocaust survivor.
[1:13:47] you should be used as an asset everywhere in our committee. If the schools are
[1:13:50] listening to us, if the clubs are listening to us
[1:13:53] , please, listen to her.
[1:13:54] >> I'm willing to help, yes, there
[1:13:58] is only very few of us. Thank you.
[1:13:59] >> we look forward to seeing you.
[1:14:02] >> we don't set an example by taking care of our
[1:14:04] seniors, however children going to know how to
[1:14:06] take care of the parents?
[1:14:07] >> you're right, you're right.
[1:14:11] so, we help together, and we are willing to help
[1:14:13] if you need any help, my friends are willing to help
[1:14:17] to make the beautiful city even better.
[1:14:20] the best in the country.
[1:14:21] >> thank you.
[1:14:26] >> sandra douglas and former commissioner barbara kramer.
[1:15:11] >> just give me a minute.
[1:15:14] >> do you need water?
[1:15:37] unfortunately, I can't get around like I used to.
[1:15:41] but, that is going to change very soon.
[1:15:48] I am 99% there, mackenzie.
[1:15:51] I've got one more present to go.
[1:15:56] so, it is on its way.
[1:15:57] cassandra douglas, 1523 northeast 152nd street.
[1:16:05] good evening, mayor, commissioners, city manager
[1:16:09] on staff, city attorney.
[1:16:11] I had a nice little speech all typed up ,
[1:16:16] and was going to tell you about how I feel
[1:16:20] , and what we should do, and all that good stuff.
[1:16:27] but, I feel that at this point , it is not
[1:16:32] the time. We will see maybe later on.
[1:16:33] however, I do want to say this. Take
[1:16:38] washington park community center of the
[1:16:42] back burner. I see you have it on the agenda tonight, 11
[1:16:46] point for, but this concerning some financial issues with it. I am
[1:16:50] talking about action. We want to see progress.
[1:16:51] we want to see something happen.
[1:16:57] we were promised a grantmaking ceremony back in september. That has
[1:17:00] not happened.
[1:17:03] we are still waiting.
[1:17:06] okay, you bought the property that you needed
[1:17:11] , you have demolished the store, that is fine.
[1:17:15] but we want to see more. We need to see more. We need to see something
[1:17:18] that is going to happen that looks like something
[1:17:21] is going to be happening. And washington park. We have been on the
[1:17:24] back burner for too long. Far too long. So, we
[1:17:30] would like to see something.
[1:17:33] the other thing is commission meetings. Please go back
[1:17:36] to twice a month.
[1:17:39] I can't stay up until midnight. And I am quite sure I'm not the only one.
[1:17:42] but, twice a month was better.
[1:17:48] it seemed like we got more done when we held commission meetings twice
[1:17:51] a month. There was more to discuss
[1:17:57] , and we were able to get a lot more information out.
[1:18:00] just trying to do everything one night a month is
[1:18:03] just not getting it.
[1:18:06] so please, take that under consideration.
[1:18:09] that is it for me.
[1:18:12] thank you. Welcome to phyllis, commissioner smith ,
[1:18:16] commissioner chernoff, welcome back commissioner smukler ,
[1:18:20] commissioner jean, and my friend , commissioner
[1:18:24] fleurimond. And, in
[1:18:30] commissioner josue's absence, graduate of the new baby.
[1:18:33] and last not least, to our mayor. Everybody
[1:18:36] have a good evening.
[1:18:39] happy holidays, merry christmas , happy hanukkah, happy kwanzaa, everything.
[1:18:44] everybody have a great time. Thank you.
[1:18:45] >> keep fighting it.
[1:18:57] >> former commissioner barbara kramer?
[1:19:03] >> I still have a title. Even when I am
[1:19:06] back there, it doesn't go away? Good evening,
[1:19:09] my name is barbara kramer. Welcome,
[1:19:14] commissioners, to a new day in north miami beach.
[1:19:18] somehow I believe I will get more accomplished speaking as
[1:19:23] a resident than I did the last two years as a resident with a
[1:19:25] title. Somehow, some of you will realize that when I spoke to you from
[1:19:30] the dais , it was in my capacity as a resident.
[1:19:35] the difference now is that some of you cannot censor me
[1:19:39] for speaking the truth about your substandard leadership
[1:19:42] filled with duplicity and unapologetic behavior. I will continue
[1:19:48] to hold you accountable. As far as the ship and sailing in the right direction
[1:19:53] , the citizens expect your compass to aim and follow
[1:20:00] transparent, honest, and responsible governing.
[1:20:03] we expect public records requests in a timely manner.
[1:20:09] we expect that no one's prevents that or hold any records ran some
[1:20:14] , especially the city attorney, who is still holding my public records
[1:20:15] request from when I was a city commissioner until
[1:20:18] I pay $2000.00. And on a
[1:20:23] side note, that same attorney drafted the censure
[1:20:27] about me at the direction of a former disgraceful commissioner , and never
[1:20:30] fact checked particularly offensive and assuming
[1:20:36] false statements about me. Shame on you.
[1:20:43] all of you need to write to this ship, throughout the drunken
[1:20:46] pirate that have landed on our shores. The taxpayers
[1:20:49] have been looted long enough
[1:20:51] , and when the truth is uncovered, if you
[1:20:54] don't think that the constituents woke up this past november, think again.
[1:20:59] that long slumber they took for over two years
[1:21:03] awakened them with a hunger and a thirst like never before.
[1:21:08] the residence of an mba crave authentic , dependable, and controlled governing.
[1:21:15] serve them nothing else.
[1:21:17] happy hanukkah, merry christmas, and happy kwanzaa. Happy and healthy new
[1:21:21] year to you all.
[1:21:30] >> keith myers .
[1:21:33] >> good morning, everyone. Welcome to the new
[1:21:35] commissioners, welcome back, commissioner smukler.
[1:21:41] so, we all berated transparency within the city.
[1:21:46] >> please state your name. >> sorry, keith myers, 1440 north 77th street.
[1:21:50] we are all being a part of our right to get access to information. We have
[1:21:53] a right to have information. There is
[1:21:55] a reason why we should have to wait six or eight months to find a
[1:22:00] copy of the receipt. It is insane. What are you guys hiding? Stop
[1:22:04] protecting former corrupt commissioners.
[1:22:09] in november, the citizens of the sami beach spoke out to remove one of the
[1:22:12] most vile women we have ever had on this. Don't think we won't do it again.
[1:22:15] thank you.
[1:22:24] >> good evening.
[1:22:27] leslie sardinia . Thank you to the new commissioners
[1:22:30] and to the old
[1:22:35] . I have been a resident for 21 years.
[1:22:39] never ever have I witnessed such
[1:22:45] a hate motivated election.
[1:22:51] it was horrible, horrible , and I haven't seen michael joseph
[1:22:56] since the election. Before the election.
[1:23:03] but what I saw was so disturbing , to make things about
[1:23:09] race rather than what was right for the city
[1:23:15] . I am not a racist, I am not somebody who ever looked at the color of who I
[1:23:18] voted for. I voted for whoever I thought was going
[1:23:21] to do a good job.
[1:23:24] sometimes, I did not vote, because I
[1:23:25] knew the two people were both very well intended for the job.
[1:23:30] but, people have different opinions. Different viewpoints.
[1:23:36] that this was a war.
[1:23:38] this was a warlike I have never seen.
[1:23:39] it was scary. It was scary to see signs
[1:23:42] cut down , and faces painted over
[1:23:51] . It was just very scary, it was ever my children to see that that is the
[1:23:54] way that things were happening in north miami beach that I have never
[1:23:57] seen in 21 years.
[1:24:03] it seemed like it was such, such desperation to keep things status quo.
[1:24:09] it was just do whatever you had to do in order to not have a change in
[1:24:12] north miami beach. Cs, there is the wake-up
[1:24:18] , because we all woke up.
[1:24:20] maybe we were a little bit complacent, but boy ,
[1:24:24] you cannot be complacent in the war that
[1:24:27] I witnessed . One thing that disturbed me the
[1:24:30] most worthy gift cards.
[1:24:33] to see people waving , as if they themselves gave out those gift cards.
[1:24:38] when the people that truly needed in north
[1:24:42] miami beach , the ones that really, really
[1:24:45] needed that gift card , that did not have a car to get there did not
[1:24:51] get that gift card. The ones that needed a turkey did not get a turkey
[1:24:56] because they don't have a gift card.
[1:25:00] I was there helping to watch the people going through that
[1:25:03] came around three times for three turkeys. But the ones who
[1:25:08] really needed it did not get any.
[1:25:12] I hope that I never see that again.
[1:25:14] I hope that north miami beach -- >>
[1:25:15] 15 seconds.
[1:25:15] >> does give up gift cards. But, I hope
[1:25:18] that the ones that needed it really, really get
[1:25:24] it. Thank you.
[1:25:33] >> good evening. Welcome to the returning commissioners . I am anna
[1:25:39] bonnet, I am a longtime resident of an
[1:25:43] mp. I will be quick. I am a senior who would like to see
[1:25:46] the senior center move forward under budget , even if positions and
[1:25:49] employees have to be cut.
[1:25:55] our task pairs want to address the need for responsibility
[1:25:59] and accountability from the commissioners.
[1:26:03] it has been common practice in recent years to
[1:26:05] spend our tax dollars untethered while using p cards
[1:26:09] . I'm calling for detailed documentation to
[1:26:12] be submitted by a set deadline by each
[1:26:15] commissioner on a monthly basis that they use
[1:26:18] their p card. Punitive measures should be established for those commissioners
[1:26:25] that do not comply with the mandatory deadline
[1:26:27] for submitting the documentation to prove relevance of their
[1:26:29] p card expenses or monthly charges.
[1:26:31] especially for travel expenses.
[1:26:37] and while on that subject, I would like to know that the past
[1:26:39] and current practice of irresponsible spending of
[1:26:41] our taxpayer money by certain people is being
[1:26:44] investigated and audited. Thank you.
[1:26:54] >> of a/v can check the audio going out to the feet of an mba
[1:27:02] live, there are several people texting that they are having issues
[1:27:07] to the manager. Thank you.
[1:27:09] >> claudia gallagher's, and after that, diane torres.
[1:27:19] >> good evening.
[1:27:25] I am claudia, I live in 16558 northeast 26 avenue
[1:27:30] . I have been living in the same place for 22 years now.
[1:27:36] that is western and eastern shores.
[1:27:37] a little neighborhood forgotten from the city. But, my point
[1:27:43] tonight is to thank you all for all of your
[1:27:48] public service. I know how difficult it
[1:27:52] becomes sometimes to serve.
[1:27:55] I hope this commission goes back to serving
[1:27:56] the city, not to serve themselves.
[1:28:01] this is a city of multiple nationalities
[1:28:06] , and multiple cultures that we can celebrate and learn from each other
[1:28:10] , instead of creating enormous divisions , as I felt in
[1:28:13] the last two years . I also
[1:28:19] hope that the commission can work on the cost
[1:28:25] of water , and the issue with the
[1:28:31] trash collection. I live in a condominium, and the cost went up
[1:28:34] over 20% in the last year.
[1:28:39] imagine what it did to our budget.
[1:28:42] it completely destroyed our budget.
[1:28:46] my last point is you
[1:28:51] mentioned of the wrapping of the utility boxes.
[1:28:54] I am part of the beautification committee and the redevelopment
[1:28:58] advisory board . We have been working on that for more than
[1:29:01] two years , and we cannot make any progress.
[1:29:04] we have photos come of the photos expired.
[1:29:10] there is nothing we can do to move forward
[1:29:13] that project. It's over four years that we've been working on that.
[1:29:16] in the last two years , it
[1:29:21] is excuse after excuse after excuse.
[1:29:25] there is no people working on that. It is an old project.
[1:29:31] so I wish you the best of luck . I will
[1:29:34] be popping up here once again , and offering my collaboration.
[1:29:40] most of you have my emails, so thank you
[1:29:43] very much.
[1:29:52] >> good evening to everybody. Welcome, commissioners,
[1:29:55] mayor, city manager.
[1:29:58] my name is -- .
[1:30:06] my accent is new york, of course.
[1:30:09] this is why I come here today, to let everybody know
[1:30:13] that instead of having small celebrations by individual groups
[1:30:16] , I would like to see a single
[1:30:23] multicultural festival for our entire city. Everybody else
[1:30:26] is doing it, why cannot we? I love who I am
[1:30:31] , I love my ethnicity, I love people.
[1:30:32] I got certified to equity inclusion
[1:30:35] for a reason.
[1:30:38] because we are diversified , this comes
[1:30:44] in all shapes , shades,
[1:30:48] and people. We are not spanish, we are latinos. The hispanic. We speak spanish.
[1:30:55] why not? Why not teach and mb
[1:30:59] about everyone. The residence equally give us an opportunity
[1:31:01] to learn about the many cultures within our city.
[1:31:08] there are many cities that
[1:31:12] have this already. Let's start doing it for us. Let start having small
[1:31:14] ones over there in the library, like we used
[1:31:17] to in the past.
[1:31:18] let's use our library. Our library is filled with information for
[1:31:23] our children.
[1:31:26] those children that I am power with my business and powering legacies
[1:31:32] , when I won an award, and I was told to say this by the black community,
[1:31:35] they said to me , we hear you, we see you,
[1:31:40] our friend. Your afro latino, and we have learned from you.
[1:31:42] we want to know the things we know right now.
[1:31:47] let our people know to about who you are. We need this in
[1:31:53] and mb.
[1:31:54] us are doing diversity the right way.
[1:31:59] thank you.
[1:32:05] >> james pullback and jeff harnage are.
[1:32:23] >> I'm sorry about that.
[1:32:26] it's 2499 northeast 130 service with
[1:32:30] maybe beach. How are you doing? Congratulations for all of you that are
[1:32:35] here tonight.
[1:32:38] I know we will not solve all the problems in highland
[1:32:41] village, but there are a couple of issues I do want to bring a. First
[1:32:44] of all, you guys are doing --the front of the park where they have
[1:32:47] done the kids park for the places, it is and approve them.
[1:32:50] it is a good thing, it is a start, but there are some other issues
[1:32:55] there. Like, I know some of the issues there right on the front of the
[1:32:56] park, it straddles north miami and north
[1:32:59] miami beach. You still have a lot of
[1:33:01] the loitering, a lot of people with alcohol , there is still stuff there. I know
[1:33:05] some of that is north miami issue. That
[1:33:08] is north miami beach issue , but that has to be addressed. You
[1:33:11] have kids up there in the front of the park. You don't
[1:33:14] need people loitering and doing these things
[1:33:17] up there. It's just not right.
[1:33:19] number one. Number two, the issue of the code enforcement trash issues, I
[1:33:22] have spoken with commissioner smith .
[1:33:29] we are still dealing with the same issues . They are not picking stuff up. They're
[1:33:35] not picking up the trash. Lastly, again, they
[1:33:37] want a whole week without picking up the recycling. They
[1:33:41] are just ignoring it.
[1:33:43] we call, and you know, they give us no response. I
[1:33:46] say, can we get a response? Don't give us a response! One of the going
[1:33:49] to come out? People are putting trash out , it is literally at the point now
[1:33:55] that all day long, all week long, people have garbage cans in
[1:33:56] the middle of the street, there are abandoned
[1:33:59] properties there. Some of us have kept our properties, and I know phyllis,
[1:34:02] you have been there, and jay, you've been there ,
[1:34:07] you have seen that some of us keep our properties up. But others are just
[1:34:11] letting their properties go , and it is become a problem as far
[1:34:14] as the crime issues you know in the park. There's been a lot of
[1:34:17] shootings in the past, girls have been
[1:34:20] kills killed.
[1:34:20] that's another thing, the speeding.
[1:34:22] they're racing on those back streets, the raising and
[1:34:26] raising. We have called the police about this
[1:34:28] enough, and there is just no issue.
[1:34:29] he just, like, what can we do about this? Can't
[1:34:32] catch them in the act. Well, these things have got to
[1:34:35] be addressed. They have to be addressed
[1:34:38] at some point in time. I know we will not stop all the problems tonight,
[1:34:41] but I at least want to bring this up that these issues have to
[1:34:44] be addressed. Because highland village cannot be ignored anymore.
[1:34:47] thank you very much.
[1:34:56] >> --, 166 street.
[1:35:02] it's such a great night to be able to
[1:35:05] have a commission meeting here , and not in the
[1:35:06] auditorium. This is would've been trying to speak about for close to
[1:35:08] a year now so that we can actually be
[1:35:13] close and see each other face-to-face rather than be distant
[1:35:18] . When we are distanced and behind masks, that is we don't speak
[1:35:20] to each other respectfully. When we speak to each
[1:35:22] other face-to-face and we are close to one another
[1:35:26] , that is only can have peace and get things done. So,
[1:35:28] I hope this is a new election, and now we are not in
[1:35:33] the auditorium , and that we can move past covid, which is a lot about control,
[1:35:36] and on about public health.
[1:35:40] the election, I was disappointed to see for the first time in north
[1:35:43] miami beach history where management got involved with campaigning
[1:35:48] . I never remember that. I think we should think about making an ordinance
[1:35:51] that during the election season that our city workers
[1:35:55] should not be actively campaigning or fundraising
[1:36:00] for incumbents.
[1:36:02] I'm glad to hear that there was an audit.
[1:36:06] we deftly need to see what is been going on with the spending
[1:36:09] for the past couple of years, and have we gotten reports back from these
[1:36:12] commissioner someone on the strips? They want with city
[1:36:18] management. So, we need to get some
[1:36:22] to figure out about that. Grant money that was given out tonight during
[1:36:24] the cra meeting, I believe that when we are
[1:36:27] giving out grants to businesses , they should also open up for internships
[1:36:30] and apprenticeships for our north miami beach use
[1:36:36] use for students. When we are giving a $25,000.00
[1:36:40] , maybe there is opportunity to have a few internships for
[1:36:44] our students that are looking to gain experience in the
[1:36:48] real world.
[1:36:50] I also heard the fpl tonight. A lot of
[1:36:55] the issues that we had for years of great forestry
[1:36:57] employees named carlos that knew every tree in the city of north
[1:37:00] miami beach , tree trimming is an investment
[1:37:06] , not only in making our city beautiful, but
[1:37:07] also preventing from power outages . So, that is been neglected.
[1:37:18] we should relook at tree trimming. I heard
[1:37:20] another resident speak about the garbage situation . You cannot really speak about recycling and
[1:37:24] the garbage situation, and she mentioned
[1:37:26] about composting. That is one of the biggest things
[1:37:29] that we can do for our city that can help us. We saw the
[1:37:35] salary increases , we need to come down.
[1:37:39] we are going through a tough economic time.
[1:37:42] crime is increasing.
[1:37:45] we have a great turnout tonight. This is a time that residents
[1:37:48] are getting involved, voter turnout was one of the highest I can never remember.
[1:37:53] this is a time that we must ask ourselves the residence, what can we do for
[1:37:56] the city? Not what can the city do for us? Thank you.
[1:38:05] >> --, and then eileen.
[1:38:17] >> excuse me, the lady is before me.
[1:38:29] good evening, everyone.
[1:38:35] I want to thank the commissioners, city manager, staff
[1:38:41] for making this beautiful room . It is well appreciated, well done,
[1:38:44] thank you very much. I have been complaining
[1:38:50] about that for the last half a year. It is back
[1:38:53] on, it brings transparency and accountability to the videos.
[1:39:02] I also want to say to the commissioners and mayor,
[1:39:08] the honeymoon is over. I heard very much
[1:39:11] almost everyone promised to bring the
[1:39:14] sanitation back in-house. We can rent, we can lease the trucks
[1:39:17] , that is a promise.
[1:39:22] I was not talking, you people were talking. The sanitation will
[1:39:26] be paid $6,000,000.00 before the takeover. $6,000,000.00
[1:39:29] a year before the takeover. Now,
[1:39:36] we are paying 13.4 million.
[1:39:38] that six-point $4,000,000.00 can come into
[1:39:41] our pockets, not to the vendors pockets . Because of another vendor was doing
[1:39:45] it for 6 million , we can do
[1:39:50] for 6 million and get that six-point $4,000,000.00 .
[1:39:57] I think the recyclable is just a fantasy.
[1:40:03] I see coconut branches , bags of plastic bags
[1:40:09] in the recyclable. They don't recycle that. They threw it in the dump.
[1:40:12] what are we doing? We are not educating the people.
[1:40:15] the vendors promised that it was educating people, but
[1:40:18] I don't think so.
[1:40:26] we are having $60,000.00 a month lawyer.
[1:40:30] I think we need to bring that back in-house . We used
[1:40:33] to have four lawyers . Nothing personal, sir.
[1:40:38] if you want, you can come back with a team
[1:40:42] of four, +2 helpers.
[1:40:44] we used to pay $55,000.00 a month , and that includes pensions
[1:40:50] , notification time. We had four brains working full-time. Not a part-time job
[1:40:57] . I think $720 for a part-time stint is not going
[1:41:03] to work.
[1:41:09] and I think they're just collecting 40 hours
[1:41:12] a week . I can't work for a city that has the
[1:41:15] second-largest water plant in florida .
[1:41:18] >> 15 seconds.
[1:41:19] >> we have to bring that back. Into all of
[1:41:24] the people , I wish you the best for your hanukkah, your kwanzaa, christmas
[1:41:29] , which are holidays I've forgotten between . I wish you well. Thank you very
[1:41:33] much for having me.
[1:41:50] >> okay, thank you, good evening, commissioners
[1:41:54] and mayor. I'm with coastal waste and recycling. I
[1:41:56] wanted all of the members in the residence --
[1:42:03] >> be nice, be nice, please.
[1:42:05] >> I wanted to address the consent of the residence.
[1:42:08] I have a business card with my cell phone number for you can give
[1:42:12] me a call. I do want to touch on the recycling , and I have witnessed the contamination
[1:42:15] of the recycling. It is really bad, it would be great if we
[1:42:18] could work on an education program or something
[1:42:23] to be able to assist in what is recyclable and
[1:42:26] not recyclable. I have seen dirt and plastic stuff that is not
[1:42:29] supposed to be there. Garbage bags is one of the
[1:42:33] worst offenders.
[1:42:35] there was an issue. We do take our recycling to waste management facilities.
[1:42:42] so, it is getting recycle, it is not getting thrown. There may be a location where
[1:42:45] he did have a truck collecting the garbage
[1:42:47] in the recycling. That time that that happen, the truck went straight to
[1:42:48] our waste energy plant and medley where
[1:42:51] we are at right now.
[1:42:57] so, I want to address, I wanted to be here present that I understand
[1:43:00] that I am hear your concerns, and I do want to hear from you. I
[1:43:03] have my cell phone, if I run out of cards, I can give you my
[1:43:06] cell phone number. You can call me if there is any service issues.
[1:43:09] please let me know if there is anything that you need. I would like to help
[1:43:12] you. I would like for you to become double with the service we
[1:43:15] are giving you. Thank you so much for the time.
[1:43:21] >> the last assigned speaker is karen harold.
[1:43:27] >> hi, I just --I will lower it. I just wanted to
[1:43:33] say welcome to the new and returning commissioners.
[1:43:36] I am just getting here now.
[1:43:38] >> we feature name?
[1:43:41] >> oh, karen harold. >> thank you.
[1:43:42] >> okay. North miami beach resident.
[1:43:51] anyways, I was celebrating the 39th hanukkah, so
[1:43:54] I was running late, but I just wanted to welcome,
[1:43:56] as I said, the new commissioners, returning commissioner, and I hope
[1:43:57] that everybody can appreciate the value that each person
[1:44:00] is bringing to the table regardless of skin color, regardless
[1:44:03] of where they were born, regardless of their religion.
[1:44:10] because those things don't separate us as americans.
[1:44:13] we use those things to enhance what we have as a group.
[1:44:16] everyone has their life experiences , and yours are different,
[1:44:21] and yours are different , and yours, and we
[1:44:24] want to pull and have value from that.
[1:44:25] each one of you is so valuable, and we need that.
[1:44:30] not to work to separate each other.
[1:44:31] not to have functions only for this group.
[1:44:36] but, to have functions that are included.
[1:44:38] like, there is some kind of citizenship happening soon ? I know it
[1:44:41] seemed like it was directed towards one group and one group of lawyers.
[1:44:43] why can't we have that for multiple groups
[1:44:46] but we are making that effort , so other people in the
[1:44:49] community can take advantage of it, and not be spending money for
[1:44:54] big events? Is what it towards the needs of the people. And
[1:44:55] trying to bring in tourists . Use the tax money that
[1:45:01] we are paying . I work hard. I am a widow. It is only
[1:45:04] my income, and I work hard to pay my
[1:45:07] taxes and my bills for my home. I want to know
[1:45:10] that my tax money is coming back into the community to help the community
[1:45:16] . Programs for the community?
[1:45:18] not fancy events. Giving away our money for
[1:45:21] the day , and giving away gifts, and raffles.
[1:45:23] please, have programs that will be diverse, help our community
[1:45:28] , and look for the good in each other
[1:45:31] and what you have to give. Okay?
[1:45:34] thank you.
[1:45:37] >> mr. Mayor? We do not have any more assigned speakers.
[1:45:48] >> thank you. At this time, will move on
[1:45:50] to announcements. Mr. Manager, if you can
[1:45:55] , kindly see where the gavel is. I don't have
[1:45:58] the gavel when we started. Thank god
[1:46:04] I haven't had to use it.
[1:46:06] we will go ahead with our announcements. Please, public affairs?
[1:46:33] >> good evening staff and residents of the city of north amy beach. We
[1:46:46] would like to share with you a few of the wonderful events from the public
[1:46:49] affairs department on behalf of the mayor commissioners taking place throughout
[1:46:51] the rest of the month of december and the great
[1:46:54] city of north amy beach. Our community has been great, from the inflationary
[1:47:00] cost from food and gas and everything else, and commissioner
[1:47:05] commissioner smukler is once again joining with the people farm sure
[1:47:07] to help mitigate the rise of cost , and provide
[1:47:10] some food security to many of our residents. This farm sure distribution
[1:47:13] will take place on wednesday, december 21st, 2022
[1:47:19] between 9:00 a.m. And 12:00 p.m. While supplies last in the back of the north amy
[1:47:25] beach city hall located at 17011 northeast 19 avenue.
[1:47:31] did you know one in three family struggle
[1:47:32] to afford diapers for their babies?
[1:47:34] the north amy beach commission on the
[1:47:37] status of women liaison from commissioner smukler, and they are
[1:47:43] doing something about it with the latest
[1:47:45] launch of the diaper drive, collecting paper sizes
[1:47:48] from two through six, and baby wipes.
[1:47:49] please, no swimming diapers.
[1:47:54] but the diaper drive drop off locations are at the city of north
[1:47:58] amy beach city hall , 17011 northeast 19 avenue , the nmb
[1:48:03] library, 1601 for these hundred 67 three , the psa building, 17050 northeast
[1:48:10] 19th avenue , and the north miami beach
[1:48:13] police department stationed at 1690 northeast 19th avenue.
[1:48:19] we thank you for your generosity during this holiday season
[1:48:22] , and if you want more information on where those locations
[1:48:25] are in the diaper drive, you can always go
[1:48:28] to our website. To commemorate dr.
[1:48:30] martin with the kings birthday , the youth advisory
[1:48:35] board liaison is excited to announce this year's mlk
[1:48:41] foraging contest. The contest is open to all nmb students k-12, and
[1:48:44] should be submitted to public dot affairs
[1:48:50] by january 4th.
[1:48:51] submission rules and guidelines can also be found
[1:48:56] on the website, but entries must reflect subject matter
[1:48:59] pertaining to dr. King , unity, and building community
[1:49:02] , and there is a 50 word minimum. Again,
[1:49:05] for more information, go to
[1:49:14] citynmb.com.
[1:49:19] and, if you're 60+ years young, the nmb mayor and
[1:49:21] commission have created a safe space for our seniors to get active, have
[1:49:26] fun, and maybe even win a prize or two. At every tuesday and thursday
[1:49:31] between 11:30 a.m., and 2:00 p.m.
[1:49:32] in the mcdonald center here in the great city of north amy beach.
[1:49:38] and, to all of our residents, parents, and students in particular, the city of
[1:49:41] north amy beach discovery library is a stellar afterschool program
[1:49:47] , and numerous secular activities for your cultural and educational
[1:49:50] enrichment at the nmb discovery library.
[1:49:54] consider the failure minor that the children's chess will be meeting
[1:49:58] a few more times before the year is out on december 20th
[1:50:02] and 27th between 4:00 p.m. And 5:00 p.m. In addition to
[1:50:05] all the wonderful things happening at
[1:50:08] the library , with all the turmoil in
[1:50:13] the world, you can come join on wednesdays at 6:00 p.m. For the nmb
[1:50:16] library yoga class, and the meditation mondays at 6:00 p.m. At the north miami beach
[1:50:20] library. We look forward to seeing you there, and you
[1:50:23] can always go to --for more information on
[1:50:31] the library. At the direction of the city
[1:50:33] manager's office , the co-compliance department has been providing residents
[1:50:37] with information door hangers detailing trash ,
[1:50:41] recycling schedules , and any illegal dumping
[1:50:45] information. Remember, recycling pickup is not every other week on wednesdays.
[1:50:50] nmb residents may refer to the online recycling
[1:50:53] pickup calendar found at citynmb.com.
[1:50:58] did you know the bulk pickup for your designated
[1:51:01] area is still the same? That is ray.
[1:51:04] also, remember that bulk pickup is restricted to a maximum of 20 cubic yards.
[1:51:10] is a quick representation on how 20 cubic yards looks
[1:51:14] like in feet.
[1:51:17] 
[1:51:20] trash and recycling bins cannot be placed not more than 24
[1:51:26] hours and advanced, and should be removed from the curbside or alleyway
[1:51:29] that same evening.
[1:51:32] in a constant effort to keep nmb clean, the code compliance compartment will
[1:51:35] begin to issue illegal dumping both trash and
[1:51:38] recycling violations.
[1:51:41] the city of north miami beach residents, do you
[1:51:44] know that you can enjoy free rides from the golden glades interchange
[1:51:47] to selective other stops by taking
[1:51:54] the all new route ease starting every day on the daily
[1:51:56] at 7:30 a.m., provided by the north miami
[1:51:59] beach trolley?
[1:52:02] city of north amy beach, it is time to free be. What is freebie?
[1:52:05] freebie is the way to enjoy a free ride in north miami beach.
[1:52:10] just download the app today, and enjoy a free ride in
[1:52:13] the energy efficient tesla vehicle were
[1:52:16] all you have to do is request service on your smart phone through the ride
[1:52:20] freebie app. For more information, you just
[1:52:23] have to go to citynmb.com. And as we approach the
[1:52:26] end of our announcements, we would like to
[1:52:29] share with you a couple of recaps from two very special events
[1:52:32] that recently took place here in the city of north amy beach.
[1:52:35] that is the snow fest and the swearing-in
[1:52:41] of our newly and re-elected commissioners. Enjoy.
[1:52:47] >> history was made on december 1st with the swearing in of the re-elected
[1:52:50] and newly elected north amy beach commissioners
[1:52:54] at the performance our theaters.
[1:52:56] commissioner chernoff , commissioner smukler,
[1:53:00] and commissioner smith are said to the
[1:53:03] oath of office to serve in the great city of
[1:53:06] north amy beach. All in all, it was a night to remember, and we
[1:53:09] say congratulations to all of the elected and re-elected officials of
[1:53:12] the city of north amy beach.
[1:53:30] >> [ music ]
[1:55:01] >> that concludes our public announcements for this month. Have
[1:55:05] a merry christmas , happy kwanzaa, happy hanukkah
[1:55:11] , [ speaking foreign language ]
[1:55:19] , and happy, happy, happy new year to
[1:55:22] the commissioners of north miami beach.
[1:55:35] >> thank you very much. At
[1:55:40] this time, that concludes our public announcements , and we will move to our city commission
[1:55:44] reports. Clerk?
[1:55:47] >> mr. Mayor, before I proceed with calling out for
[1:55:52] the commission reports, I would like to remind everyone or inform the newly
[1:55:53] elected officials that it was
[1:55:58] decided for the city commission reports to do you reports in about two minutes.
[1:56:05] it was two, and the one at the end. So, we will
[1:56:11] begin with commissioner chernoff.
[1:56:15] >> good evening, everybody. Thank you all for coming this evening.
[1:56:20] thank you to all the citizens who spoke
[1:56:22] and told us what is on their minds.
[1:56:23] we do appreciate it. During the campaigning, there were two mandates
[1:56:25] or three mandates from the people.
[1:56:26] number one was for the city to
[1:56:31] have somebody answering the phones , and communicate with the residents
[1:56:35] instead of them trying to find a number.
[1:56:41] that was a big priority. You know, you call the city, you need to get
[1:56:44] somebody. It's very important, so I hope
[1:56:46] it is addressed. Mr. Scott, if you are still around to the
[1:56:49] city manager, I would like you to do a study on what it
[1:56:52] would take for us to bring garbage back in-house for the whole thing.
[1:56:56] so, I think that is needed right now with
[1:56:58] everything that everyone is saying.
[1:56:59] absolutely.
[1:57:02] all right. I would like to thank all of our departments who
[1:57:05] did put on the snow fest in the hanukkah lighting last night ,
[1:57:08] and all of the events that you are doing,
[1:57:11] you're doing a wonderful job.
[1:57:14] you know, the citizens really came out and
[1:57:16] enjoyed themselves. So, thank you.
[1:57:20] the tennis courts. I would like to see
[1:57:23] the recreation department look into making half of them, three quarters
[1:57:27] of them pickleball courts. Pickleball is
[1:57:31] a new sport that is out there right now that is gaining tremendous, tremendous,
[1:57:36] you know , playing. A lot of people are doing
[1:57:42] it. Old, young, everybody.
[1:57:43] and we have this huge facility of tennis courts that don't get
[1:57:47] used anymore. Tennis is fading, not many people
[1:57:49] are fading.
[1:57:50] I'm not thing to eliminate the tennis courts,
[1:57:55] I am saying, keep six of them, or keep the clay courts, and make the
[1:57:58] hard courts will pickleball courts.
[1:57:59] come up with a proposition that we start doing
[1:58:01] something to improve the facility.
[1:58:05] happy anniversary to my wife of 32 years . December 30th will be our anniversary,
[1:58:09] so happy anniversary, honey.
[1:58:12] merry christmas to everyone , happy kwanzaa
[1:58:17] , and everybody, a happy, healthy new year.
[1:58:20] good night.
[1:58:20] >> commissioner fleurimond.
[1:58:24] >> thank you. December 30th is my birthday
[1:58:29] , so, good to have a wedding anniversary. Congratulations.
[1:58:35] so, thank you so much, everyone, for being here
[1:58:38] , and also, I want to congratulate my new colleagues.
[1:58:42] I truly , truly look forward to working with you
[1:58:45] guys, and making sure enrichment of the city is a good one.
[1:58:48] I will not take long, because with all
[1:58:50] due respect to everyone that is here tonight , I don't
[1:58:55] think that I should participate in this meeting. I will tell you why.
[1:59:00] when I first started , you know, in office,
[1:59:05] commissioner kramer and I had a conversation . Well, before
[1:59:09] I got sworn in . And I asked her, who would she recommend that I
[1:59:14] speak to that can help me with good governance?
[1:59:17] and she recommended that I speak to katie sorensen , a former elected
[1:59:24] official in the county. I had an opportunity to go and sit with katie
[1:59:27] sorensen, and we spoke for a couple of hours.
[1:59:31] we talked about good governance. And they will say that there has been
[1:59:33] opportunities either sometimes I may have fallen
[1:59:36] on the right side , or maybe not on the right side.
[1:59:42] however, I think that the direction of this commission is going in , and
[1:59:45] also with the residents are requiring of us
[1:59:53] is for us to lead in a way that
[1:59:55] is very responsible. Today, I received an email
[1:59:59] in reference to our mayor's residence.
[2:00:04] there were rumors floating around.
[2:00:06] I do not pay too much attention, but I
[2:00:07] did ask questions. My first understanding that it was a vacant property. I paid
[2:00:09] it no mind. This email that I received today
[2:00:15] states otherwise. That there is a property, in fact, that
[2:00:18] the mayor may or may not be living in.
[2:00:21] it is not up to me to make those determinations.
[2:00:24] I reached out to our city attorney, I reached out
[2:00:30] to --to ask him what is he think I should
[2:00:33] do tonight . He said that he can't really give
[2:00:36] me much advice on what to do , service should to
[2:00:41] the city attorney. I know it was very short notice
[2:00:45] , but I am not convinced at this point that our mayor either
[2:00:50] lives here or does not live here.
[2:00:53] I do not know. It is up for him to respond adequately
[2:00:56] to what was sent to all of the city commission members . I am looking for
[2:01:05] some legal advice, or, you know, whether or not we are
[2:01:08] able to meets, or how we move forward, or the not the mayor has
[2:01:12] to provide some sort of information in response
[2:01:14] to the email that was sent by this resident . I really
[2:01:18] want to work with this team.
[2:01:21] I have been very clear about that. But,
[2:01:26] for tonight, and to look at the responses that I believe I need
[2:01:29] , I can't tell anyone else what to do.
[2:01:31] but, there is some substantial things on this agenda,
[2:01:36] and I don't want us to be voting, at least, I want to vote on
[2:01:39] things when I feel like there is a question about the mayor's residency.
[2:01:42] that is it for me. Thank you, happy holidays.
[2:01:45] >> well, commissioner, since
[2:01:48] you bring it out , went to gillette the answers you
[2:01:53] can leave seeking participate the rest of the evening?
[2:01:57] >> excuse me, just because of what he sent you
[2:02:00] an email saying someone else coming going
[2:02:02] to believe that?
[2:02:03] >> no, listen.
[2:02:06] I do not think this is the arena for me to go back and forth.
[2:02:08] >> you started it.
[2:02:12] >> listening . I am leaving a meeting, right?
[2:02:18] based on what I feel it is appropriate, I'm expanding the reason
[2:02:21] why am leaving this meeting. This particular meeting.
[2:02:24] >> you can respond, I think he can.
[2:02:30] he's not responding to me specifically. He correspond and say
[2:02:33] whatever he wants. I am saying specifically that I
[2:02:35] will seek the information I believe once I receive it, and I will
[2:02:40] continue present pay.
[2:02:42] so because somebody who may not be a resident,
[2:02:44] it could be a fake name, because that is what your friend does?
[2:02:48] >> I will not have that debate here.
[2:02:49] >> well, you started the debate.
[2:02:50] >> is not a debate. I am not saying why am
[2:02:52] I participating.
[2:02:53] >> order, order.
[2:02:55] come on.
[2:02:58] come on.
[2:03:00] if you want to step down, he can step down.
[2:03:01] >> civility, please?
[2:03:07] >> I'm allowed to miss a meeting if I deem necessary to find more information, okay?
[2:03:13] >> you can sit down if you want to.
[2:03:15] >> I'm not stepping down.
[2:03:16] I am not stepping down.
[2:03:17] I'm telling you that until I find the proper advice that I will not
[2:03:22] attend this meeting. I have told you already, mr. Mayor, that I'm
[2:03:25] willing and ready --
[2:03:27] >> to raise your voice!
[2:03:31] >> I'm telling you that I'm willing to work with you and
[2:03:32] the rest of the team.
[2:03:33] >> okay, that is great.
[2:03:35] >> you've come to me before, right? You have come
[2:03:37] to me before, and I've extended my hand,
[2:03:40] and so that I am willing to work with everyone here. Today, however,
[2:03:42] with the information that all of us have received, I
[2:03:46] need to clarify that before I can move forward.
[2:03:52] . May I ask madam clerk, is his two minutes of?
[2:03:58] >> thank you.
[2:04:07] go ahead, madam clerk. I will answer with my two
[2:04:11] minutes come.
[2:04:13] >> excuse me?
[2:04:16] commissioner jean.
[2:04:19] >> good evening, everyone. I wanted to welcome our new and
[2:04:24] welcome commissioners. I also want to thank dr.
[2:04:27] rodriguez, the principle of fulford elementary for being
[2:04:29] here tonight for the students. I also want to send a big kudos
[2:04:33] to the barracudas replacing fifth of the 20 for our
[2:04:40] self order recreational swim week championship.
[2:04:43] so, kudos to the barracudas, and especially
[2:04:49] to coach kelly hodge, coach --,
[2:04:58] coach julian, and coach jaelyn. Thank you to all the summers
[2:05:01] who participated.
[2:05:03] I also wanted to thank everyone who participated in our holiday
[2:05:06] literacy concert of our sponsors, and also, special thanks
[2:05:10] to webster for donating the toys. I had the opportunity
[2:05:16] today for being at the grand opening , so look
[2:05:21] forward to speaking on the items that was placed on our regular agenda. Thank you
[2:05:25] so much.
[2:05:28] >> mr. Mayor, may give important information?
[2:05:31] >> please.
[2:05:34] >> commissioner jean, I thank you for inviting
[2:05:39] me to participate in your literacy even.
[2:05:45] >> commissioner smith? >> thank you.
[2:05:46] well, good evening. Let me see if I can
[2:05:49] bring us back to where our
[2:05:54] commission should be with civility.
[2:05:57] I had planned tonight to show you my three grandchildren's message
[2:06:04] to their grandmother when I won for my two minutes.
[2:06:10] I am very blessed. That is all I can say , how happy they were for grandma,
[2:06:13] and the biggest point that I wanted to
[2:06:16] point out , from their eyes, they said the city is lucky to have
[2:06:19] me. So, I hope I can live that for them
[2:06:24] for the next four years. There's a lot to discuss here.
[2:06:27] there is a lot that we have to do.
[2:06:30] before we can go forward, we have to
[2:06:34] go back , and see what really is the necessity to go forward
[2:06:40] . The primary necessity.
[2:06:43] I think one of the biggest things that we
[2:06:45] can do to help north family beach is efficiency
[2:06:49] has to come up about 97% . We have to stop what we
[2:06:55] are doing at the 3% level, and be much more efficient.
[2:07:01] and how does that happen? Well, it happens
[2:07:04] with communication.
[2:07:07] but communication is so poor. You know many times in
[2:07:09] two years I have tried to reach somebody?
[2:07:14] I have given 13 1/2 years to the city, and it could
[2:07:17] not reach our city? So, that is imperative. Availability
[2:07:23] is important. If somebody has an urgent problem , if a
[2:07:27] woman feels that she is hearing gunshots , that has to be where the police department
[2:07:35] is available immediately.
[2:07:37] so, availability, communication, and efficiency are really something that we have to
[2:07:44] try our best to live by. There is a lot of
[2:07:49] problems with code. There's a lot of
[2:07:53] problems with code. You can start with me
[2:07:55] , but there is no sense to go negative.
[2:07:56] let's go positive, and save we are here to fix it.
[2:08:02] we are here to fix, if we can, the budget.
[2:08:08] we are here too, as many of you have said to me in real desperation
[2:08:14] , please bring our city back to us. I had a phone
[2:08:20] call today , and I don't want to deviate. But
[2:08:23] I had a phone call today from somebody who lived in a home
[2:08:26] that pays $12,000.00 a year in taxes. But, he
[2:08:30] bought his home for me, it so happens, 25 years ago. That
[2:08:33] home sold today, the person would be paying $80,000.00
[2:08:38] , 85, $80,000.00 in taxes.
[2:08:41] that is happening every day in our city. It doesn't
[2:08:45] have to be eastern shores. It doesn't have to be skylake.
[2:08:49] you can't buy one of the sunray homes for a
[2:08:53] 1000 square-foot under 400, $500,000.00. The tax revenue
[2:08:56] coming in is significant.
[2:09:01] the money going back to the residence , whether it be for their beautification, whether
[2:09:05] it be for enjoyment, whether it be for their
[2:09:11] own reduction of the cost of their water, their taxes
[2:09:14] , where is it?
[2:09:19] the city is getting all this new revenue , and the residents are getting left
[2:09:26] -- less. So, that is one of my goals. I am on a
[2:09:29] hunch, and if anybody can help me, I am looking for the
[2:09:32] money. So, if anybody knows where the
[2:09:35] money is , I am asking you to help me accomplish where is
[2:09:38] the money.
[2:09:44] I could go on and on, but the last thing I will
[2:09:47] say to you as it took me two years to get the water plant
[2:09:50] back. I understand we say $7,000,000.00 a year having the water
[2:09:54] plant back. Of course, our water bills to us went up, so I have no idea
[2:09:59] where that 7 million went , and on the agenda tonight under the consent,
[2:10:02] we do need to buy and maintain our water plant. But, I am going to
[2:10:08] focus on bringing our garbage back.
[2:10:11] I do want to hear that we don't have trucks, I want
[2:10:14] to hear it that we have stolen our trucks. There are rental companies.
[2:10:17] there are ways to work it out. If you took a poll of
[2:10:21] the city right now and said would you pay extra for two years
[2:10:26] to have your garbage back to us , I would say 90% of
[2:10:31] the public would say yes, where do I sign?
[2:10:38] so, those things said, I want to do the best
[2:10:41] I can for you , as most of you know, this is ever my intent to
[2:10:44] come back. But, my grandchildren right. The city needed me.
[2:10:51] and I really have to thank all of the public.
[2:10:54] it wasn't me, it was a community effort door to door, phone call to phone
[2:10:58] call that brought our city back to us.
[2:11:04] let's make the best of it. Let's all work together and have the best north
[2:11:07] miami beach of anybody that everybody will envy. Thank you
[2:11:10] very much.
[2:11:18] >> commissioner smukler? >> thank you, and good
[2:11:22] evening. I was also thinking about the pickleball idea
[2:11:25] at the tennis courts. I still don't know
[2:11:27] what pickleball is, but I was thinking of that idea.
[2:11:31] there is a food distribution tomorrow morning here
[2:11:37] by the pool area. We are always looking for
[2:11:40] volunteers, and I'm sure my fellow commissioners will
[2:11:42] all be there tomorrow night since this is a city event.
[2:11:48] thank you to parks and rec for all of your help always in setting
[2:11:52] this up . Also, please drop off diapers throughout the different
[2:11:54] city locations for our diaper drive . Like it was said, one in three u.s. Families
[2:12:01] struggle to afford diapers for their babies.
[2:12:03] thank you to our police department for keeping
[2:12:07] our residents , businesses, visitors, employees, and
[2:12:09] our families, my family safe. Thank you to our police department
[2:12:13] for always being there to help and all of the
[2:12:16] special events. I apologize. If you minutes ago, I got out of line there
[2:12:20] and speaking over when I should not have, but I do want to thank
[2:12:29] commissioner jean, commissioner smith, and commissioner
[2:12:32] chernoff ping digital could be a rumor. Ironically, last
[2:12:35] night, I had a conversation --well, I did
[2:12:38] have a conversation, I said to commissioner
[2:12:41] fleurimond that I had seen mayor anthony defillipo
[2:12:46] driving into eastern shores on a weeknight at
[2:12:52] 11:00 p.m.
[2:12:53] happy hanukkah on this beautiful third evening of hanukkah
[2:12:59] , jolly and merry christmas , happy kwanzaa
[2:13:05] , happy new year, with the old, and in with the new.
[2:13:17] [ speaking foreign language ] local voices make local
[2:13:23] choices. Thank you.
[2:13:26] >> mayor anthony defillipo.
[2:13:27] >> thank you. Good evening to everyone here in the audience.
[2:13:32] >> the fetus down. >> the fetus down? Yes, I keep getting the message to.
[2:13:35] >> it's a blank screen. >> mr. Mayor? We
[2:13:39] went upstairs to check the source, so we are working on
[2:13:42] bringing it back on. Thank you.
[2:13:44] >> thank you so much. Real quick
[2:13:47] want to think our commissioner for the
[2:13:52] literacy even. It was so fabulous .
[2:13:58] with the children, the interaction, I thought it
[2:14:01] was fabulous. All-inclusive our city, everybody played a
[2:14:04] great role , it is want to say thank you
[2:14:08] and kudos for the hard work that you do. Folks,
[2:14:11] I just want to go ahead
[2:14:17] and think each and everyone of you, wish you
[2:14:19] a happy holiday, whatever holiday you
[2:14:22] are observing. Oh, you came back.
[2:14:29] >> you know me and you, have an interesting relationship,
[2:14:31] but I am back, sir.
[2:14:32] >> listen, life is interesting, isn't it? We
[2:14:35] are blessed . Folks, I want to thank you for coming here
[2:14:41] this evening. I want to say that many, if not all of you
[2:14:44] in this room, know me. You all know me by now.
[2:14:52] I tell you. My family, all of you know , we have been police of
[2:14:53] this community since the 1950s
[2:14:58] , going back to my grandfather, my father, myself. My whole
[2:15:00] family has always been involved in the city and the city minutes ability
[2:15:02] of the government. Decades, decades,
[2:15:05] years, and years of hard service and labor.
[2:15:11] one that I would never tarnish or ruin. So, I
[2:15:16] encourage all of you to keep your faith , and know
[2:15:20] that your mayor is your mayor .
[2:15:23] madam clerk, when I move,
[2:15:27] did I not go to your office? Sedation my paperwork and fill it
[2:15:29] everything appropriate?
[2:15:30] >> yes, that was about a year ago.
[2:15:32] >> is a residence in the city of f.a.b. Beach?
[2:15:35] >> from what I recall, you did state that you moved from your area into
[2:15:38] eastern shores.
[2:15:41] >> and I document everything with you correctly
[2:15:44] as I was supposed to as you told me everything was correct?
[2:15:46] >> you gave me the new address, and he forwarded
[2:15:47] it to hr.
[2:15:52] >> and I went to hr, and I follow the
[2:15:53] proper procedure the paperwork and get everything
[2:15:55] filled the correct? Have that time, right?
[2:15:56] >> I don't know what happened at hr. I can only speak
[2:15:58] on our conversation here.
[2:15:59] >> well, everything has been filled out. If
[2:16:02] anyone wants to come and visit me, you can
[2:16:08] .
[2:16:10] I have a lobby where we can even have meetings and get together
[2:16:12] and meet in the community. I would love to invite you all.
[2:16:17] my address is always been a north miami beach. My residency has always
[2:16:20] been a north miami beach without question. If you want to
[2:16:26] question it, the clerk is there and has all of my information.
[2:16:32] you are very welcome to get it . It is available,
[2:16:35] it is public , and that is all I have to say.
[2:16:41] I am very shocked that my fellow commissioner has taken this attitude and
[2:16:47] this posture towards this . I will tell you, I am a
[2:16:52] real estate investor. I invest in properties everywhere
[2:17:02] in north miami beach. As a matter fact anyone
[2:17:04] to know something? I'm going to buy another house that I am in the
[2:17:06] middle of negotiating, okay? Because this is my livelihood, this is what I live for
[2:17:10] him. Other people do other things, this is what I live from, and I bite,
[2:17:13] sell, and invest. Folks, I love you all.
[2:17:16] if you have any questions, you all of my number, and you can
[2:17:21] call me. If you want to visit me, the clerk has my address.
[2:17:24] god bless you all, have a great evening. Thank you. Madam
[2:17:27] clerk, that concludes the city commission reports.
[2:17:30] we will move on to our consent agenda.
[2:17:32] mr. Attorney?
[2:17:32] >> thank you, mr. Mayor.
[2:17:36] I don't nine point one is a regular city commission minutes of
[2:17:42] october 18th, 2022.
[2:17:44] item nine point to is the resolution of
[2:17:46] city commission of city of north maybe beach. Otherwise, the city manager
[2:17:48] to ensure a purchase order to mk I service
[2:17:51] with the purchase of hayward equipment.
[2:17:57] that exceeds 71,000.
[2:18:00] I don't 9.3 is the resolution of the city commission of city of north
[2:18:02] miami beach approving the contract amendment with american
[2:18:04] traffic solution inc. For the red light camera. Item 9.4,
[2:18:09] the resolution of city commission city of f.a.b. Beach supporting the
[2:18:12] efforts of the for the department of transportation to
[2:18:15] rename a portion of the state wrote a 26 to anthony resnick
[2:18:21] boulevard.
[2:18:24] item 9.5 is a resolution of a city commission for the city of north
[2:18:27] maybe beach approving the memorandum of understanding
[2:18:30] that the city speech for joint acumen process . Item 9.6
[2:18:37] is a resolution of city commission with the city of north maybe beach
[2:18:41] authorizing a city manager for agreement with an
[2:18:43] electric company for electric mode and property service
[2:18:47] estimate of the budget amount of 120,000.
[2:18:48] I don't 9.7 is a resolution
[2:18:53] of the city commission in the city of f.a.b. Beach
[2:18:55] with author city manager to issue a source purchase order
[2:19:00] with the purchase of pumps not to exceed 70,000,
[2:19:06] item 9.8 is a resolution of city commission
[2:19:09] and city of north maybe beach authorizing a city manager to issue
[2:19:12] a purchase order of technologies inc.
[2:19:18] for slaker equipment an amount not to exceed 95,000 .
[2:19:24] item 9.9 is a resolution of the city commission north
[2:19:27] maybe beach, on the four department of
[2:19:32] service contracts for ties to service , an amount not to exceed
[2:19:39] 370,000. Item 9.10 is a resolution of a city commission
[2:19:42] of north maybe beach, authorize the city manager to have a agreement for
[2:19:48] more storage an amount not to exceed 130,000 .
[2:19:51] I don't 9.11 is a resolution
[2:19:55] of city commission north miami beach , authorize and
[2:20:00] increase expenditure corporation for liquid corrosion inhibitor chemicals
[2:20:06] an amount not to exceed 50,000.
[2:20:11] I don't 9.12 is a resolution of city commission city of north maybe
[2:20:14] beach accepting and adopting the certificate of resource of november 8th
[2:20:18] , 2022 general election .
[2:20:24] fisher think two, four, and six.
[2:20:27] election was held on of them are 22nd, 2022 .
[2:20:33] I don't 9.13 as a result city commissioned north
[2:20:36] maybe beach authorizing utilization of multiple contracts
[2:20:41] from cooperative for our purchase of oem
[2:20:45] arts and services not to exceed 214,000 .
[2:20:54] I don't nine point one for was taken off the
[2:20:57] consent agenda . I don't 9.15 was deferred
[2:21:03] , and providing for conflict
[2:21:10] and effective day. Thank you, mr. Mayor.
[2:21:11] >> thank you very much. Our live streaming has
[2:21:14] crashed. Nobody can see this online.
[2:21:17] >> it is backup, sir. >> I think we need to recess
[2:21:19] , because I don't want to continue.
[2:21:20] >> this is the last of his backup now.
[2:21:23] >> okay, can we
[2:21:27] verify that? Let's take a 10 minute recess .
[2:21:30] >> no one heard your response.
[2:21:36] >> well, we have to move on. Is on the record,
[2:21:39] they cannot for the public may record.
[2:21:41] >> mayor, we can move on. The livestream is
[2:21:44] not required by law. If you want to wait , as a
[2:21:47] commissioner, it is up to you.
[2:21:48] >> yes, we
[2:21:53] don't have a quorum. We will wait for staff to get it right, because
[2:21:54] I can't understand how this room sat
[2:21:57] here for two years, and we are still not doing things right. But everybody understands.
[2:22:03] it was about 10 minutes for staff to get
[2:22:05] it together.
[2:32:15] >> all right, guys, let's get started. If anybody could
[2:32:19] please take their seats?
[2:32:22] I am going to need everyone to please take your seats.
[2:32:25] we are going to get started.
[2:32:55] my fellow colleagues, if he could join me, please, we will get started.
[2:33:19] okay, I have five. I needed commissioner smith, she's coming up.
[2:33:22] esther attorney, I believe we were in the
[2:33:25] middle of doing the consent agenda item?
[2:33:28] >> yes,
[2:33:30] mayor, I have read all the items, and obviously, we need a motion in
[2:33:35] a second.
[2:33:36] >> I moved to approve the consent agenda.
[2:33:38] >> second. All in favor?
[2:33:41] >> aye. >> aye.
[2:33:42] >> anyone opposed the consent agenda?
[2:33:43] okay, the consent agenda passes unanimously.
[2:33:50] we have two items that were pulled that are
[2:33:53] going to go to legislation, correct, madam clerk? Last two?
[2:33:58] one was pulled, and one was deferred.
[2:33:59] >> right. One was pulled, was deferred. You also
[2:34:02] wanted your mayors discussion.
[2:34:03] >> so, commissioner smith had an item that she wanted for discussion
[2:34:07] , which is 15.5. She wanted to bring that
[2:34:11] up. I also wanted to have the mayors discussion brought up.
[2:34:17] and so, I had a brought up because I don't
[2:34:20] really want to wait until the end. Usually, it's
[2:34:23] on the tail end of the meeting, and sometimes, we
[2:34:26] can't get work accomplish or get participation from the public.
[2:34:35] every time we have an election, I always ask this question.
[2:34:40] I ask you to my fellow colleagues because, you
[2:34:42] know, obviously, out of courtesy, I want to make sure that we are all
[2:34:47] in agreements with the charter officers, and
[2:34:53] the management , and legal, and every department that we have to
[2:34:55] make sure that everybody is happy or not.
[2:35:01] so, you know, I have some reservations , and I would like to
[2:35:08] bring them up during this time that I have as a mayors discussion.
[2:35:14] I have some things that I want to talk
[2:35:19] , bring up, and speak about with management , and I want to do it as respectfully
[2:35:26] and as eloquent as possible. And I also have some
[2:35:29] with our legal department.
[2:35:35] so, if I am feeling this way, I would like to see what some of my
[2:35:38] other fellow colleagues feel , and if any action
[2:35:47] or any comments or actions want to be taken out of this discussion item.
[2:35:53] so, I am opening up to see what my fellow colleagues have
[2:35:56] to say at this time , and if there is
[2:36:01] anything to say, and we can move forward from here.
[2:36:05] anybody wishing to speak?
[2:36:06] commissioner smith?
[2:36:07] >> you know, I will make some comments . I will
[2:36:11] make them with a great sense of honor to the people that serve
[2:36:14] in our city, and the people who live
[2:36:17] in our city. I am used to a different way of government.
[2:36:23] that doesn't make me write and somebody else wrong, that doesn't make them
[2:36:26] right and be wrong. But, I will tell you knocking on doors for three months,
[2:36:29] and meeting the public
[2:36:35] , if the public had a say so , the public would sit here right
[2:36:38] now and say we need a change.
[2:36:44] so, you know, there are lots of things that I personally felt, as
[2:36:47] most of you know . People always said something
[2:36:53] about something minor that is insignificant.
[2:36:59] and I'm talking about when you run for campaign sign . It
[2:37:05] is not earth shattering .
[2:37:08] it doesn't harm your residence , it doesn't take away from
[2:37:14] your businesses , but what it does say is a lot about character.
[2:37:20] it says a lot about character.
[2:37:23] so, I would like to say, one comment I would like to make
[2:37:26] is, having read the charter , it clearly states
[2:37:32] that the charter officers have to follow the ordinances and
[2:37:41] the resolutions , and make sure they are implement it in your city. So, disappointed
[2:37:44] is an easy word , but for me
[2:37:50] , it was very difficult to go through
[2:37:56] three months to have charter officers not follow
[2:38:02] the charter.
[2:38:04] that was a very difficult thing. Thank you
[2:38:06] very much.
[2:38:07] >> thank you, commissioner smith.
[2:38:11] any of the commissioners wishing to speak at
[2:38:14] this time? Commissioner fleurimond?
[2:38:17] >> I think I will reserve my comments for when
[2:38:20] we have our workshop. Thank you.
[2:38:27] >> okay.
[2:38:30] anybody else wishing to speak on the item?
[2:38:36] of city attorney at this time?
[2:38:42] >> once again, I speak on the city attorney, and I apologize,
[2:38:44] because I know our city attorney for many
[2:38:46] years, I had every intention for being with you today and sitting down
[2:38:50] with you because, unfortunately -- there is no sound?
[2:38:57] >> I got a text from someone saying there
[2:39:00] is no sound.
[2:39:00] >> well, let me just say this.
[2:39:05] I, too, was on the brightline today.
[2:39:08] I was invited, as we were as commissioners.
[2:39:12] but, was very interesting at the brightline was somebody gave
[2:39:18] a speech that was very clear , as
[2:39:22] one person, what do you get done?
[2:39:26] but, as a group, what can be done?
[2:39:30] and for me , and you and I had
[2:39:33] the conversation, some were surprised.
[2:39:35] how could you set on a commission ,
[2:39:39] and the attorney say that you have to vote
[2:39:44] , the majority has to agree that you can pull
[2:39:47] an item from the agenda? I listen to that
[2:39:51] . See, what you don't understand is the agenda is
[2:39:57] what you are going to vote on on a number of issues with one vote.
[2:40:03] either or nay.
[2:40:11] the commissioners, with all respect, like a ventura, which they have
[2:40:15] a meeting twice a month, but one of their meetings is to go over that
[2:40:18] agenda, and have everybody that is a head of a department's be
[2:40:24] in that meeting , answer all of the commissioners questions.
[2:40:27] it is published
[2:40:33] , it is a meeting open to the public , but the thing about that meeting
[2:40:36] is, when you go to to the --when you go to
[2:40:40] the commission meeting when you're voting yay
[2:40:45] or nay , bony have
[2:40:51] networks up against each other, and you're voting on 15 things on
[2:40:54] the consent agenda, you have no idea what
[2:41:02] commissioner jean thought. She hear something that I did not
[2:41:04] know? G say something that would make me have another question? So, when
[2:41:07] you get to the consent agenda, you pull it , and you
[2:41:12] have a discussion , because maybe you are not clear
[2:41:15] on something, maybe you need more information before you vote,
[2:41:18] or let's put it in a different way.
[2:41:20] this 15 things on the consent agenda . You want
[2:41:24] to vote no for one , so you have to vote no for all 15, or
[2:41:27] you have to pull it , vote
[2:41:32] yes for 14, and discuss the one you're voting no one.
[2:41:36] so, I sat there and could not believe it.
[2:41:39] I was in my house , and we are voting on whether somebody that
[2:41:42] is a commissioner has the right to find out more information
[2:41:45] before they vote based on a majority.
[2:41:53] so, we have had this conversation, because I don't want to
[2:41:56] 70 commission were I am representing the public
[2:42:02] , and I don't understand something I am voting for, and don't
[2:42:06] have the right to bring it out, and bring
[2:42:09] more information. So, for me, that was a very weak link in
[2:42:15] our system.
[2:42:17] and I just wanted to bring that up , because,
[2:42:20] as you know, it bothered me then , it bothers
[2:42:24] me know , and we have to be a transparent government
[2:42:30] , that none of you have to say, where is the money?
[2:42:33] none of you have to do that.
[2:42:39] but, you turn to page 34, and you see where that 32,000 went. You turn to
[2:42:42] page 58, and you see where that $10,000 went.
[2:42:48] you don't see that it was moved, and moved, and hid.
[2:42:54] that is why this is important to me, and that
[2:42:56] is why that is the one thing, and I wanted to come and tell you,
[2:42:59] I was going to say that tonight, because it still bothers me. The consent agenda
[2:43:03] for the seven of us has the right to
[2:43:06] make sure that we understand it , or have to vote no for the entire
[2:43:09] thing. Thank you very much.
[2:43:15] >> commissioner jean, and then commissioner fleurimond?
[2:43:17] >> thank you so much mr.
[2:43:18] mayor. Before the recess ended, you asked
[2:43:21] me if I was okay, and I told you I wasn't. I'm
[2:43:25] not really feeling well.
[2:43:27] but, to commissioner smith's points, a lot of the opportunity to have
[2:43:35] a workshop, not in this case, because I did not know there was going to
[2:43:38] be an item for the mayors discussion to discuss legal, but obviously,
[2:43:43] I am not sure of these conversations before or not.
[2:43:47] seemingly, what I wanted to say is, in the same breath that she mentioned
[2:43:51] me and she said that it is her practice to dialogue through
[2:43:56] these issues, and also more so than anything to give people fair notice
[2:44:01] , that line of statements doesn't align with this moment.
[2:44:07] but, nevertheless , the mayor has the opportunity to move
[2:44:10] an item forward so we can discuss it . But
[2:44:13] again, you mentioned
[2:44:17] to speak about the charter officers, and then you say the item
[2:44:20] on legal, so I am not really sure where it is
[2:44:25] coming from.
[2:44:27] >> to clarify that, I just want to say, you know, I brought
[2:44:29] up the items of the charter officers, but the legal and the city
[2:44:32] manager, so that we can review and go over
[2:44:37] the lakes and no lakes, and how we feel at this moment about those
[2:44:40] charter officers.
[2:44:42] and if in fact we do still want to keep them on,
[2:44:46] or if there is some vision to have a change.
[2:44:48] >> okay.
[2:44:51] that being said, I am not comfortable having this
[2:44:54] discussion now. Like I said, I'm not feeling well, so I will be leaving
[2:44:57] the meeting.
[2:45:02] >> okay. >> feel better. >> thank you.
[2:45:06] >> mr. Mayor? >> go ahead, commissioner chernoff.
[2:45:08] >> thank you for
[2:45:12] the opportunity. I, too, was very disappointed during the campaigning
[2:45:15] process of how the city reacted , but the legal department,
[2:45:21] and the management a permit.
[2:45:24] and I am sorry to say, but, you know, they welcomed
[2:45:27] me here, and I appreciate that, but I think it is time to part
[2:45:30] with them.
[2:45:31] >> okay.
[2:45:33] any other statement from any of the commissioner?
[2:45:36] commissioner smith?
[2:45:41] >> so, were talking about the attorney?
[2:45:42] >> we are talking about the attorney at
[2:45:45] this point, yes.
[2:45:47] >> oh, all right.
[2:45:51] so, I had the opportunity , when I was going door
[2:45:57] to door , you know, meeting so
[2:46:03] many people , and, you know, the concerns were the garbage,
[2:46:09] the water , and the fourth floor.
[2:46:15] I mean, they don't know what is the fourth floor, they
[2:46:18] don't know what particular floor everybody
[2:46:23] is out, but I am just saying, I am seeing the fourth floor.
[2:46:33] so, I am not really happy with the attorney --I am not
[2:46:36] happy how it all came about in the first place,
[2:46:42] you know?
[2:46:45] it wasn't even, you know , I don't like how it was done in the
[2:46:50] first place, so I was never happy with that.
[2:46:56] and, you know, I guess it is time for change.
[2:47:00] >> okay.
[2:47:06] you know, commissioner fleurimond, if you want
[2:47:09] to go ahead and speak, I have two things I want to say,
[2:47:13] slightly very brief. Go ahead, sir.
[2:47:15] >> thank you. I just want to clarify first of all that ,
[2:47:21] you know, my understanding , and that is the reason why to come back
[2:47:24] is that the legitimacy of
[2:47:30] --village of the legitimacy or one stability to
[2:47:36] serve or not serve based on residency does not affect the legitimacy
[2:47:39] of the meeting itself. That was the understanding that I gathered
[2:47:42] once I left, and that is the reason why
[2:47:45] I came back. So, I wanted to clarify that.
[2:47:50] number two, we just sat here and agreed that we
[2:47:54] would have a workshop with the city attorney, the city clerk
[2:48:00] , and the city manager. That is what we just agreed on. In addition
[2:48:07] to that , we talk about processes that happened
[2:48:10] in the past , however, what I am seeing before
[2:48:16] me know is the same process being incremented again.
[2:48:24] to a degree, that is what I am seeing.
[2:48:25] now, in addition to that
[2:48:30] , I will throw to the city manager.
[2:48:34] whether you like the city manager personally or
[2:48:37] not personally , what I will say is that , if you look
[2:48:43] at items that have been done over the past year
[2:48:46] and a half to move the city forward
[2:48:52] , he has done the job.
[2:48:55] there has been no election, no
[2:48:59] election that I can recall where there has not
[2:49:03] been disappointment , or there has not been issues
[2:49:06] of concern related to trash, related to water
[2:49:10] , and related to the things that we have heard here this evening. In 2018
[2:49:16] , it was about bringing back our water plant. It was about going from
[2:49:23] going from quarterly --going from monthly billing to quarterly billing.
[2:49:28] it was about bringing the sanitation back in-house.
[2:49:33] in 2020, some of the same issues with the exception
[2:49:35] of water, because we had in source water, there was a win, commissioner
[2:49:37] smith was on the dais to make sure
[2:49:43] that happened , and we were successful in bringing
[2:49:46] it back. We save $6,500,000.00 the first year. Okay?
[2:49:51] we then had an issue with sanitation where
[2:49:55] waste management was staying past their initial contract
[2:50:01] , and charging us a premium.
[2:50:03] this commission, with the exception of, I believe,
[2:50:08] commissioner chernoff, and I don't think commissioner smith was on at
[2:50:10] that time , voted not to approve
[2:50:16] the contract with waste pro . I say this commission, because weather
[2:50:19] is all of us are some of us, it did not go through.
[2:50:25] as a result of that, we continued with waste management and
[2:50:28] continued to pay a higher fee.
[2:50:31] this manager comes in , and negotiates actually have a contract bought
[2:50:34] before us , and we voted on the contract. Now,
[2:50:39] the transition has not been simple , and
[2:50:42] the transition has not been easy.
[2:50:45] but, it has been, I believe, less than six
[2:50:47] months since we have transitioned to coastal, and they are working
[2:50:54] to try to get things really need to be.
[2:50:58] as it relates to personality differences , and things of
[2:51:04] that sort, perhaps some of those issues do exist. When we
[2:51:09] go to our city attorney, I will say that the city attorney
[2:51:13] has worked to make sure that not only he does the
[2:51:16] job that he is asked to do, but is innovative in bringing
[2:51:19] in revenue through his department. We talk about
[2:51:25] committee benefits . When people come appear now, this is never
[2:51:28] happened before where there are actually contributing
[2:51:31] monies towards education , and towards other things that our
[2:51:34] residents need , all because of with the city attorney
[2:51:37] is doing.
[2:51:39] were talking about traffic, speed bumps . A lot of you
[2:51:44] recall that getting a speedbump to be installed in the city of north
[2:51:50] miami beach, years! As a matter of fact, 13th avenue
[2:51:52] , were people were asking for traffic calming, we
[2:51:55] cannot get speed bumps to the point for our
[2:51:57] former city manager had to put speed tables the did
[2:52:00] not do a darn thing to slow down the traffic, right?
[2:52:04] this team comes in and negotiates with
[2:52:06] miami-dade county a memorandum of understanding so that we can streamline
[2:52:10] the speedbump process , and streamline traffic calming. Enough arizona has
[2:52:13] an issue similar to those in you lita , they now have a speedbump
[2:52:19] north of 164 three.
[2:52:22] and there is more to come. These are some of the
[2:52:25] things that do this team has been doing. It's been a rough
[2:52:28] road.
[2:52:30] I will not sit here and pretend that it has been pretty. It hasn't been
[2:52:33] easy. But when I look at a cra that was dormant ,
[2:52:36] and now has a director that is working hard, when I look at things
[2:52:40] that are happening with traffic calming, when you look at revenues that are coming
[2:52:43] in as a result of our team working to make sure that developers
[2:52:50] respect north amy beach when they come to the table, to me,
[2:52:52] we are advancing in the right place. When I look at our city
[2:52:55] clerk's office, same thing.
[2:53:01] there were ancient ways of keeping records that
[2:53:03] we are no longer doing that anymore.
[2:53:04] were moving into a more technologically advanced
[2:53:07] city clerk office.
[2:53:10] we understand politics, and I will be
[2:53:12] the first to tell you that, listen, I get it.
[2:53:16] new people come, sometimes they want their own people
[2:53:19] in here that they feel they can work better with , and they can get
[2:53:24] whatever it is that they are looking to do, they can advance their mission.
[2:53:27] however, I will tell you that pound for pound, these charter officers
[2:53:31] have been working their darndest to make sure that the city of north
[2:53:34] amy beach signs. My thought
[2:53:40] is that we were going to go into a workshop, see what the pros and the cons are,
[2:53:43] and give these people an opportunity to prove themselves
[2:53:50] to the new commission. That was my thought.
[2:53:58] even as it relates to the city attorney and city manager, the
[2:54:00] city manager did not leave until march or april the following year.
[2:54:05] the city attorney did not leave until the following year. It
[2:54:08] did not happen the first night.
[2:54:11] but time and time again , I understand this might
[2:54:15] be a process. You tried to pull in with desmond scott when he was here
[2:54:18] before, you try to pull it with sarah, our former city attorney
[2:54:23] , okay? And we fought hard that time in 2018 to make sure that
[2:54:25] desmond scott stayed, and we fought hard
[2:54:29] to keep sarah as well.
[2:54:33] I don't think that this is the right process, I don't think it is good for
[2:54:36] continuity, I do not think it is good for consistency. I think we can
[2:54:39] this people an opportunity to hold a commission retreat and workshop,
[2:54:41] and see where it takes us.
[2:54:47] at that point, if we decide that we don't want
[2:54:50] to move forward with them, we give them an opportunity to properly
[2:54:52] transition the people that we have an opportunity to
[2:54:54] vent, and to follow a process that so many people have been asking for
[2:54:56] over the past couple of years.
[2:55:01] but don't make the mistake of getting rid
[2:55:03] of these people tonight. I don't thicken make sense. Thank you.
[2:55:05] >> thank you.
[2:55:06] I just want to go ahead and put on the record
[2:55:11] , as I said, I will just be as professional as possible , because not only is
[2:55:17] --a recurring city attorney, beatles a personal
[2:55:20] friend of mine of many years, so I have the
[2:55:23] utmost respect , and I will not sit here and break
[2:55:26] anybody over the coals . But say
[2:55:30] that there is a sentiment of here of wanting some change
[2:55:35] , and from what I am hearing , you know,
[2:55:41] I also have had my moments with you, and we all
[2:55:47] sat down , and we have hashed it out afterwards.
[2:55:51] but, you know, look. You are like one of my fellow commissioners said,
[2:55:53] with the tide comes change.
[2:55:59] every time, you know, you get a fresh new commissioner
[2:56:04] , you get fresh fines, and people want to see
[2:56:06] things and want to see new people.
[2:56:08] they want to see a change in their government. I believe that is
[2:56:11] the sentiment I'm hearing so far appear.
[2:56:17] without belaboring this process --
[2:56:19] >> mr. Mayor, may speak again?
[2:56:20] >> no, excuse me. Without belaboring the process and going through
[2:56:23] the mud, I want to give mr. --the utmost respect
[2:56:29] , and say at this time that we are asking for your resignation.
[2:56:35] I am asking for it here on a day us. I do know there
[2:56:38] is a second that feels the way I do so
[2:56:41] that we can continue moving this forward.
[2:56:43] >> second.
[2:56:47] >> so, there is a first and a second
[2:56:54] to entertain the termination of the city attorney at this time.
[2:56:59] is there any comments?
[2:57:01] >> I have a comment.
[2:57:08] >> for the second time?!. >> as I said earlier , whether
[2:57:12] you have personality differences, you can go to the records, and you
[2:57:14] can see how the city is moving forward
[2:57:17] in so many ways.
[2:57:20] separately from that, I will say that I don't
[2:57:23] think this is a forum to discuss a resignation. I believe that
[2:57:29] , if mr. --, or any charter officer
[2:57:34] , should resign, we should offer the opportunity for them to be able to have a
[2:57:39] discussion separately , and then bring something forth to
[2:57:43] the commission that the commission could then
[2:57:47] fully vetted and talk about transition processes. For someone
[2:57:50] to walk out the day of
[2:57:56] , and for a city attorney department to be just left without
[2:57:59] an attorney , that doesn't make sense. That is never
[2:58:02] been how we do business here.
[2:58:05] you can say we do not have a particular process to
[2:58:07] hire an attorney, but, as it relates to transition , we always have
[2:58:14] a proper transition.
[2:58:17] and so, you know, I say give him the opportunity
[2:58:23] to properly, if that is what the commissioner
[2:58:26] should decide , to accept a proper
[2:58:32] transition from the attorney. I don't know where
[2:58:35] the attorney stands, I can't speak for him. Honestly, that is up to him
[2:58:38] to see for himself, but the way we are doing this here tonight is appropriate.
[2:58:44] >> I call the question? >> I will not stand for. Thank you.
[2:58:46] >> thank you. Okay, call to question, madam clerk?
[2:58:50] you can break the quorum.
[2:58:53] you can't break the quorum.
[2:58:56] >> you just did. He just did.
[2:59:02] >> you can't walk out in the middle of a discussion.
[2:59:07] >> you could do what he wants, he is a grown man.
[2:59:09] >> madam clerk, let's get the vote?
[2:59:14] >> I don't give a quorum, mr. Mayor.
[2:59:16] you have to do every thing directly.
[2:59:17] >> you know what? To the developers that were
[2:59:23] on the judicial, it is not our fault . To the residence I came here,
[2:59:30] it is not our fault. And if the ethics commission is watching ,
[2:59:34] you saw two of your commissioners, two of the commissioners
[2:59:39] leave. I am hoping that you are watching into
[2:59:40] some thing about it.
[2:59:41] >> mr. Mayor, I would like to make a suggestion
[2:59:45] that we have an emergency meeting? Although
[2:59:50] it takes five people to do that , I think we need an emergency meeting.
[2:59:54] >> we need five people for an emergency meeting.
[3:00:00] I will respectfully ask ,
[3:00:06] since we have lost a quorum , at the next meeting that there
[3:00:12] is legislation drafted that will prevent anybody
[3:00:18] from walking out.
[3:00:19] I believe commissioner kramer brought up once, and it was
[3:00:23] voted down. If nobody can find it , I have to do a
[3:00:28] public records request to the clerk.
[3:00:30] but I want to find the resolution that commissioner kramer
[3:00:33] brought up once that would not allow a person
[3:00:39] to walk out and break the quorum.
[3:00:43] >> and just for the record, there was ever a majority vote to
[3:00:47] fire desmond scott. There wasn't even a motion that
[3:00:50] was seconded.
[3:00:55] >> I don't know, city clerk, if I'm on or off
[3:00:57] record, because we don't have a quorum.
[3:00:59] but, for public information , and because it meant so much to me
[3:01:04] , and with respect of somebody that I have known for a
[3:01:07] long time , there have been some things that happened that hurt
[3:01:11] our city from the council that we were given
[3:01:14] in north miami beach.
[3:01:17] I am not going to mention any of the above . My
[3:01:21] confidence for what I feel this city needs to go forward
[3:01:26] is based on something different.
[3:01:29] but, I did read the charter , and I did read the city attorney's contract.
[3:01:35] the city attorney's contract is firm,
[3:01:40] and when I heard my fellow commissioners say give them the
[3:01:44] opportunity to resign , the firm can quit anytime.
[3:01:50] that is for sure.
[3:01:52] this is a firm that works for us.
[3:01:56] we, as city bodies, the majority of us have had
[3:01:59] the opportunity, and it is nothing personal . As people have
[3:02:02] told me that know you well, what a wonderful family man
[3:02:05] you are , and what a great person you are. But I will tell
[3:02:08] you the truth. If you knocked on the doors
[3:02:11] that I did , out of 400 doors, 350
[3:02:17] want a change.
[3:02:20] so, there is a lot that plays into this conversation
[3:02:25] . I have no idea what anybody else in this
[3:02:29] felt. I don't play that game when somebody called me, I said you
[3:02:32] were not going to work as a conduit.
[3:02:37] that is not the way I do government work.
[3:02:41] but I would think, knocking on doors , that three out of
[3:02:45] the four commissioners heard the same thing I heard.
[3:02:50] and prior to being elected, sometimes ,
[3:02:56] commissioner chernoff and I walk together. Sometimes, commissioner
[3:02:59] smukler and I walk together. But, this is not
[3:03:02] a personal issue to me, this is a covered
[3:03:08] mince run city that needs some correction
[3:03:14] . I am saying some to be kind. Instead of saying a lot.
[3:03:20] so, I will try to be kind to say that I don't think
[3:03:23] it would work, because
[3:03:29] , as our legal counsel , in that election
[3:03:35] that was so blatantly obvious what was happening with our
[3:03:41] government involved , and without somebody stepping in
[3:03:49] , it makes me nervous , because the your question to yourself
[3:03:50] is what else? What else?
[3:03:58] so, I don't know if this is on or off record. I have no
[3:04:01] idea because there is no orem, but I want to say, this is
[3:04:04] nothing vindictive . This is nothing mean-spirited in my seat.
[3:04:12] the only thing I want to do is bring the best government to north
[3:04:14] miami beach we can possibly have, and with
[3:04:17] what has happened in some of the decisions that
[3:04:21] were made in my seats, I did not think that
[3:04:27] that is what would go forward.
[3:04:29] I can't speak for anybody else, but I do speak for what I have unencumbered. And
[3:04:33] someday, maybe we will share it and see if I am wrong.
[3:04:39] but, I really do appreciate you understanding that this is not, if
[3:04:44] you will, that this is nothing against you. Is
[3:04:48] the firm, and the way the firm took care of our city.
[3:04:53] that makes me a little anxious to make sure that it
[3:04:57] doesn't continue.
[3:04:59] and that is the reason why I feel the way
[3:05:01] I feel.
[3:05:02] >> all right, folks. We will go ahead
[3:05:05] and conclude this meeting. Obviously, we
[3:05:07] can't continue any further. We don't have a quorum, meeting adjourned.
[3:05:12] happy holidays to everyone. Be safe. Bless you all.