Major Citywide Projects
r ECON0MIC STIMULUS REPORT
As a result of the devastating events of September 11, 2001, the City of Miami Beach
and its tourist-related industries and resident businesses have been adversely
impacted. On October 17, 2001, the Mayor and City Commission approved various
measures to provide temporary relief while confidence is restored in the economy and
the tourism industry. These initiatives included a deferral of business related fees,
reduced parking and transportation costs, a contribution to the GMCVB 'What Makes
You Happy" marketing campaign and financial and logistical support for the free
Veteran's Day benefit concert featuring *NSYNC, produced in conjunction with Ocean
Drive Association.
Moreover, the City Manager was empowered by the Mayor and City Commission to
extend the incentives offered for an additional ninety (90) day period. The City Manager
has evaluated the response of the local business and tourism industries and determined
that it would be in the best interest of the City to extend the following initiatives for an
additional sixty (60) day period.
. Extend the deferral of payment for unpaid FY 2002 occupational license fees and
unpaid FY 2002 sidewalk cafe fees for an additional sixty (60) day period from
December 1, 2001 to January 31, 2002, abating any late payment fees and
delinquency penalties in connection therewith.
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. Extend the 20% discount offered on all denominations of Parking Smart Cards for an
additional sixty (60) day period from December 1, 2001 to January 31, 2002.
. Extend the Electrowave transportation service being provided at no charge after
9:00 p.m. for an additional sixty (60) day period from December 1, 2001 to January
31,2002.
We also are closely tracking economic indicators, such as unemployment, occupancy,
resort tax, parking, and other revenue, to better assess the impact and recovery
prospects.
Lastly, as part of the City's efforts to assist the victims of the September 11, 2001
terrorist attacks and assist the local hospitality industry and displaced workers, the City
of Miami Beach and Ocean Drive Association produced and sponsored a free Veteran's
Day benefit concert featuring *NSYNC and other artists at Lummus Park on Sunday,
November 11, 2001. This concert generated positive media coverage and increased
resort tax revenues by attracting over 150,000 estimated visitors to South Beach the
day of the event. The concert generated over $1,200,000 in proceeds to be donated to
victims of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks.
It is estimated that the concert production and event coordination costs approximated
$450,000. The City and Ocean Drive raised corporate donations totaling $266,000 to
partially underwrite the costs of production. Additionally, the City implemented its Major
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Events Plan to assure that planning and resources were appropriately allocated during ~
the Veteran's Day weekend. Fortunately, the majority of the City's and cooperating
.jurisdictions public safety personnel and administrative staff volunteered their time and
services on Sunday, November 11,2001 from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. that evening.
Additional initiatives the City has pursued to assist local businesses and displaced
workers include the following:
. One of the City's emergency legislative priorities was the expansion of eligibility
criteria for the Small Business Administration's Economic Injury Disaster Loan
Program. This was accomplished on October 22"d and the program was presented
during a seminar at the Chamber's Goals Conference on November 17, 2001.
. The Administration is in ongoing discussion with the Florida Lottery regarding the
City's participation in the upcoming "Play Here Stay Here" campaign and the
creation of a Miami Beach themed scratch off game.
. City staff is working with the Beacon Council and the GMCVB, on the
implementation of a tracking system for un-employmentlemployment in all industry
sectors similar to hotel occupancy tracking. This information will allow the City to
target federal and state funding incentives that are available to distressed
businesses and displaced workers.
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. The Department of Code Compliance has deferred action or granting extensions of
time on compliance for non-life safety or non-quality of life violations, when feasible.
. The Building/Fire Departments have enhanced services provided for plans review
and inspection services on non-work hours; effectively, increasing hours and
increasing efficiency to assist current projects.
. The City continues to work with the Hispanic Community Center's (Unidad)
Workforce Miami Beach One-Stop Career Center, located at the 6th Street
Community Center, to assist displaced workers.
. The City has updated its tourism link on the City website with special hospitality
promotions throughout the City and initiating a "Why I want to vacation on Miami
Beach" contest, with special prizes from local hotels and restaurants.
. The City is aggressively working with our lobbyists to access state and federal relief
efforts that may be implemented.
. On October 17, 2001, the City Commission adopted film and production industry
incentives.
. The City of Miami Beach is positively impacting the local economy with over $400
million of planned capital projects over the next five (5) years.
.......,.
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CONVENTION DEVELOPMENT TAX (COT) INTERLOCAL AGREEMENT BETWEEN
MIAMI-DADE COUNTY AND CITY OF MIAMI BEACH
In 1983, the State Legislature enacted the Convention Oevelopment Tax Act which
authorizes the County to levy a three percent (3%) convention development tax on hotel
room revenues. Section 212.0305, Florida Statutes (FS), authorizing Convention
Oevelopment Tax ("COT") , provides that two-thirds of the proceeds shall be used to
extend, enlarge and improve the largest convention center in the County, which is the
Miami Beach Convention Center ("MBCC"), and related projects and facilities.
On Oecember 20, 1984, the City of Miami Beach (CMB) and Miami-Oade County
(County) entered' into an Interlocal Agreement to finance the expansion of the Miami
Beach Convention Center (MBCC). Said interlocal was amended and restated on
12/13/85, 4n/87, 10/12/87.
In 1989, the CMB passed and later rescinded a Resolution which authorized
Homestead to receive certain excess COT funds for a major league baseball training
complex. Homestead then sued the CMB and on June 2, 1989, the Circuit Court
decision ruled that the CMB must exercise discretion and act reasonably in allocating
excess COT funds. Accordingly, on April 22, 1992, the CMB adopted Resolution 92-
20499 which reallocated the "Excess City Share" to the County to 1) finance $8 million
r Convention Center Completion Bonds, 2) fund operating and maintenance expense
deficits for MBCC, 3) finance $12 million for the Homestead Stadium, 4) fund Challenge
Capital Grants for eligible arts organizations and 5) finance $92 million for the
Performing Arts Center (PACT); and subject to prior claims of the payment of
outstanding bonds and 1-3 above, allocated COT to certain payments.
On June 21, 1996, the CMB and the County entered into a new Interlocal Agreement,
which superceded prior Interlocal Agreements, and allocated excess COT for the PACT
and set forth certain City responsibilities and obligations and County responsibilities and
obligations. Pursuant to the 1996 Interlocal, the termination provision stated that "The
City and County shall be relieved of any further obligations under this Agreem~nt if
either (a) the construction of the PACT or (b) the related issuance of the PACT bonds
does not occur prior to March 31, 2001 or c) if the County abandons the PACT project
prior to that time.
In 2000. it was becoming increasingly evident that the condition that the construction of
the PACT occur prior to March 31, 2001 was not going to be met. Additionally, COT
receipts had increased, in large part due to increased programming at the MBCC and
the growth in the region's tourism/hotel industry. As such. on March 15,2000, the City
Commission adopted Resolution No. 2000-23841 directing the City Administration to
submit a list of proposed projects and to request an allocation and distribution of the
two-thirds portion of the COT sufficient to provide funding for such projects.
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With the directive of the City Commission, on April 3, 2000, the CMB met with the --..
County and submitted Resolution No. 2000-23841 and requested an allocation and
distribution of the two-thirds portion of the COT sufficient to provide funding for such
projects. Again on December 4, 2000, CMB met with the County to discuss the 1996
Interlocal Agreement and the uses of COT and to address the critical funding needs to
sustain MBCC and supporting facilities.
However, on December 17, 2001, a Letter of Intent was signed between Mayor Alex
Penelas and John Henry regarding the financing of a Baseball Stadium and amongst
other items, pledged COT to finance the balance of the Baseball Stadium project cost.
Concurrent therewith, the CMB and County began to negotiate an Amendment to 1996
Interlocal to set forth future allocation of COT upon issuance of bonds for Baseball
Stadium and/or PACT.
In March 2001, the CMB adopted Resolution No. 2001-24318 in furtherance of
Resolution No. 2000-24196, adopted on December 20, 2000, which authorized and
directed the City Manager and City Attorney to take all necessary action to assure
sufficient funding be available to maintain the MBCC and supporting facilities and for
other eligible uses within the City; providing that all necessary action include, but not be
limited, invocation of the termination provisions of the 1996 Interlocal Agreement.
On April 4, 2001, the City's counsel correspondence to the County provided notice that ---
the termination provision had been triggered. On Wednesday, May 16, 2001, the City
Commission approved an Amendment to the Interlocal that provides for the allocation of
COT funds to the City in the event the County provides financing for a new baseball
stadium project before Oecember 1, 2003 and an altemative allocation in the event no
baseball stadium is constructed. Additionally, the Amendment sets forth the City's
Agreement to support all County and State legislative initiatives related to the financing
and development of the baseball stadium project. Said expression of support is
satisfied by the adoption of a resolution which clearly states that the City expresses its
support of the baseball stadium project by not opposing the use of COT proceeds for
the uses set forth in the Amendment.
The fundamental terms of the Amendment to the Interlocal are as follows:
In the event an agreement is reached regarding a baseball stadium and COT funds are
pledged for the project by December 1, 2003, the following provisions would be in effect
under the terms of the Amendment:
The 1996 Interlocal Agreement, as amended, shall continue in full force and effect
through the term of any financial agreements providing COT in support of the
development of the stadium project or for the Performing Arts Center Project.
A subsidy of $3 million paid by April 1, 2002 and $4.5 million paid by April 1 of each .......,
year thereafter shall be paid to the City through the term of this agreement. This
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r represents a $1.5 million increase in 2002 from the amount in the current agreement
and an increase of minimum annual payments from $1.1 million from 2003 through
2026 to a fixed payment of $4.5 million through the term of this Amendment (anticipated
to be at a minimum through 2040).
A net capital contribution of $15 million shall be paid to the City from the first COT-
backed bond sale by the County subsequent to the effective date of this amendment to
be used for Convention Center Complex Area projects.
25 percent of excess annual CDT revenue above the revenue level identified in
the County dollar-specific projection schedule, attached hereto, to the City in
each year beginning in 2001 and extending through 2004,
100 percent of excess annual CDT revenue between the five percent County
growth estimates and a cap of 7.56 percent growth (the 7.56 percent is based on
average annual growth since inception of the CDT) as outlined in the dollar-
specific projection schedule to the City in 2005,
90 percent of excess annual COT revenue between the five percent County
growth estimates and a cap of 7.56 percent growth as outlined in the dollar-
specific projection schedule to the City in 2006,
80 percent of excess annual COT revenue between five percent County growth
estimates and a cap of 7.56 percent growth as outlined in the dollar-specific
projection schedule to the City in 2007,
70 percent of excess annual CDT revenue between the five percent County
growth estimates and a cap of 7.56 percent growth as outlined in the dollar-
specific projection schedule to the City in 2008,
60 percent of excess annual CDT revenue between the five percent County
growth estimates and a cap of 7.56 percent growth as outlined in the dollar-
specific projection schedule to the City in 2009,
50 percent of excess annual CDT revenue between the five percent County
growth estimates and a cap of 7.56 percent growth as outlined in the dollar-
specific projection schedule to the City each year from 2010 through the term of
the agreement with a cap of $50 million (adjusted for inflation) for any annual
payment.
r For the vast majority of the term of the Amendment, the City and County will share
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A $2 million payment to the Miami-Dade Public Library System from the City shall be
made within 60 days of the $15 million capital contribution to the City for the County to
Pwchase books and materials for the new regional library in Miami Beach. In the event
that such capital contribution is subsequent to the completion of the Library, the County
will provide the books for the Library and will be reimbursed the $2 million by the City.
The County and City will share excess annual COT receipts beyond tt:Je County's
projections of eight percent growth in 2001, seven percent growth in the year 2002-2004
and five percent growth for each year thereafter. The specific amounts to be shared are
outlined in the Amendment and are based on:
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
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equally any annual excess COT receipts above the County's five percent annual growth ,........"
estimate and the cap of 7.56 percent. The County will receive 100 percent of any
annual COT receipts in excess of the 7.56 percent annual growth figure based on the
current COT rate.
The City and the County agree that the South Pointe Redevelopment District shall be
terminated effective September 30, 2005 in accordance with the provisions of
Ordinance No. 89-59. To the extent that the amount paid to the tax increment fund in
FY 2005 is less than the full year's tax increment for that year, the County will remit to
the City the difference between the full year's increment and the amount paid to the
fund. From 2005 through 2020 the County will annually appropriate and provide an
amount equal to 50 percent of incremental countywide property tax revenue from the
geographic area formally known as the South Pointe Redevelopment Area (RDA) area
payable from non-ad valorem revenue sources for projects in such geographic area.
From 2005 through 2020 the City shall also annually appropriate and provide an amount
equal to 50 percent of incremental municipal property tax revenue from the geographic
area formally known as the South Pointe RDA for projects in such geographic area.
From 2005 through 2016 the County will also provide an amount equal to 25 percent of
incremental countywide property tax revenue from the geographic area formally known
as South Pointe CRA area payable from non-ad valorem revenue sources. Also,
penalties and late fees for the FY 2000 tax increment payment to the City are waived.
These provisions will survive any termination of the agreement before 2021.
"""
.
The South Pointe RDA currently expires in 2004 or 2008 (depending on the County/City
interpretation, respectively) and the 1996 Interlocal provided for a 12 year extension to
the life of the South Pointe RDA to 2016. While payments are made for projects in the
South Pointe area through 2020 under this agreement, they are made at levels less
than the current incremental payment levels of 95 percent for both the City and County.
The City benefits through its receipt of the County's 50% of the increment for the South
Pointe area and 25% of the increment for the use throughout the City. The City also
retains 50% of the City's increment in the general fund. Consequently, this adjustment
is beneficial to both the City and the County.
In the event that COT funds are not pledged for the stadium project by December 1,
2003, certain terms of the amendment change. The delay, until 2003, is provided to
allow time for legislative action, to negotiate the stadium project terms, and for the
commitment of the COT funds. The provisions that change are:
1.
2.
The term of the agreement is through 2040. This change affects point 1 above.
The payment schedule, as noted in point 5 above, is modified to eliminate
payments prior to 2005, and beginning in 2005, 50 percent of excess COT
revenue between five percent County growth estimates and a cap of 7.56
percent growth as outlined in a dollar-specific schedule are made to the City for
the terms of the agreement. Such payments are capped at $50 million per year
(adjusted for inflation).
In the event that payments are made in 2001, 2002, and 2003 and assuming a
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3.
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subsequent agreement would be reached with the team. the County would be
reimbursed through a credit on the scheduled payments from excess COT to the
City beginning in 2005.
The City will be paid on May 1, 2004, $50 million for a COT eligible capital project
in the Convention Center Area.
4.
The projected growth in COT revenues upon which the assumptions for the baseball
stadium are based is approximately five percent per year for the term of the agreement.
The present value of the agreement is worth approximately $409 million to the City over
the next 44 years in the event COT revenue growth is at historic annual levels (7.56
percent per year) and an agreement is reached with the team. In the event that no
agreement is reached with the team, the adjustments to the payment schedule and to
the term, and the initial allocation for the Convention Center Area project change the
present value to approximately $446 million over the next 40 years (see attached chart).
At the same time with or without an agreement with the team, at historic annual growth
levels, the County would receive in excess of $200 million more COT revenue over the
term of the agreement than under the five percent assumption. It should be pointed out
that if COT revenues are realized at an average of five percent annual growth, the
benefit to the City of Miami Beach is significantly reduced and there would be no
additional revenue to the County beyond the five percent annual growth assumptions.
r Benefits to the City of Miami Beach
The Amendment significantly enhanced the City's revenue stream and financial capacity
to implement COT eligible projects. It had consistently been the City's negotiating
stance that approximately 40% of total COT revenues are generated from facilities
within the City of Miami Beach and that a significant portion of those revenues are
related to the Convention Center and related projects.
Below you will find a chart summarizing the benefits to the City under three different
scenarios (A) if the 1996 Interlocal remains in place; (B) the 2001 Amendment with
Baseball; and (C) the 2001 Amendment without baseball.
Through FY 2040, the potential aggregate maximum revenue stream, assuming all
projections are met, to the City is as follows:
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Maximum AQQreaate Net Present Value
Revenue Stream FY01-FY40
(A) 1996 Interlocal: $276,461,705
(B) 2001 Amendment $1,466,522.054 $408,859,685
with Baseball:
(C) 2001 Amendment $1,505,014,292 $446,840,218
without Baseball:
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. In either the "Baseball or No Baseball" scenario, the revenue stream provided through
the Amendment greatly enhances the City's general fund receipts commencing in FY
2005 and beyond by returning 50% of the City's tax increment generated in South
Pointe back to the general fund.
In 1996, the City COT collections represented approximately 31.8% of the total COT
receipts. By year-end 2000, the City's COT collections had grown to 40.2% of the total
COT receipts. Oespite the increase in City COT collections, the 1996 Interlocal only
provided a return of 8.6% to the City. The Amendment with Baseball returns 18.5% of
the total COT receipts to the City and without Baseball, 19.2% of the total COT receipts
are returned to the City. Not factored into these percentage returns, is the benefit of the
additional general fund receipts the City will receive in lieu of extending the South
Pointe ROA.
The City's first receipt of excess COT should occur in January 2002.
At this time, the Administration is developing a capital plan to present to the Mayor and
City Commission that will properly allocate the future COT receipts for the necessary
MBCC improvements and related/eligible projects.
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72ND STREET SITE
. The nnd Street Site is located between Collins and Harding Avenues, from 72nd Street
to 73rd Street. The 3.87acre site is immediately north of the 71st Street Commercial
District and south of the Harding Townsite Commercial District, which extends along
Collins Avenue between 73rd and 75th Streets. It is situated on the eastern portion of
the east/west "open space" park and recreational system between nnd Street and 73rd
Street, which extends from the Atlantic Ocean on the east to Tatum Waterway on the
west. To the immediate east side of the Site is the North Shore open band shell, and to
the west, the tennis courts of North Shore Park. The Site is currently used as a public
surface parking lot (306 spaces) serving adjacent uses.
Zoning: The Site is currently zoned GU Government Use District; the underlying
Future Land Use Map designation is CD-3 Commercial High-Intensity. Main permitted
uses for the GU District are government buildings and uses, including but not limited to,
parking lots and garages; parks and associated parking; schools; performing arts and
cultural facilities; and monuments and memorials. Uses not listed above may be
approved by the City Commission through a public hearing. Private or joint
government/private uses including air-rights, shall be reviewed by the Planning Board
prior to approval by the City Commission. The maximum allowable building height is
seventy-five (75) feet or seven (7) stories, and the maximum allowable floor area ratio is
2.75.
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The strategy to develop this site through a Request for Proposals ("RFP") was
presented to the City Commission by the Administration in mid 1998 when discussions
surrounding the 17th Street site took place. At that time, the Administration also
identified this property as an important site in the future redevelopment of North Beach
and recommended a planning study as a precursor to an RFP. The Commission did not
take action at that time.
On November 4, 1998, the City Commission discussed a request from the North Beach
Development Corporation (lONBDClO). NBDC's Board of Directors passed a resolution
requesting that the City conduct a planning and economic development study for the
site as a possible development and economic generator for the commercial area from
71st to 75th Streets. The study would serve as a basis for the issuance of an RFP.
Additionally, NBDC requested that the study of the area reference the prior findings of
the North Shore Development Plan from the 1980's and the Design Guidelines for the
North Beach neighborhood prepared by the architectural firm of Duany/Plater-Zyberk in
1994,
In response to said discussion, the Administration developed a general study outline,
timetable, community participation, and funding strategy in order to accomplish certain
goals for North Beach in general. This strategy was discussed by the City Commission,
the Land Use and Development Committee and the Neighborhoods Committee and
North Beach Development Corporation in order to reach a consensus on a plan of
action as to how to proceed with this effort.
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On January 6, 1999, the City Commission discussed a report from the Neighborhoods
Committee meeting of December 17, 1998 regarding the proposed North Beach Master
Plan and the Normandy Isle Master Plan. The report indicated that the proposed
studies would be further discussed with the North Beach Development Corporation on
January 19, 1999 for further input, and that the general consensus on a plan of action
would be reported back to the City Commission on January 20,1999.
At the same January 6, 1999 meeting, Commissioner Shapiro suggested that the City
go out with an RFP for the parking lot located at Collins Avenue between 72nd and 73rd
Streets, and that said RFP be aimed at encouraging a mixed-use project. Pursuant to
that suggestion, Commissioner Shapiro requested the Administration to prepare a
Resolution authorizing the issuance of an RFP for the site.
On January 20, 1999, the City Commission adopted Resolution No. 99-23048
authorizing the Administration to issue an RFP for the Development of City-owned land
located between Collins and Harding Avenue and 72nd and 73rd Street, despite the
Administration's recommendation to undertake a professional planning process for the
subject site as part of the larger area to determine its best long range use. While the
Administration repeatedly noted that it would be preferable to undertake the process
described above prior to the issuance of an RFP, the City Commission voted to proceed
with the issuance of an RFP.
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On March 19, 1999, the North Beach Development Corporation of Miami Beach
reviewed the proposed RFP and provided comments that were incorporated into the
RFP. On April 28, 1999, the RFP was scheduled for City Commission action and was
deferred to the May 12, 1999 meeting. On May 12, 1999, the City Commission adopted
Resolution No. 99-23164 authorizin~ the issuance of Request for Proposals (RFP) No.
42-98/99 for development of the 720 Street Site.
Desired Development: While no specific uses were mandated in the RFP, the City
indicated a preference for a mix of uses, including a design that will respect and
promote the spirit of the east/west "open space" park and recreational system of this
area and serve to complement the vitality and evolution of the 71st Street Commercial
District, as well as the historic Harding Townsite Commercial District, between 73rd and
75th Streets on Collins Avenue, by creating a clean, safe, and stimulating environment
for the people of the City of Miami Beach, its visitors, and the surrounding areas. The
architecture and site development should be of the highest quality, reflecting a
contemporary design and planning principles of our time, and should respect, reinforce,
and appropriately advance the unique urban character, as well as historic qualities of
the area, inclusive of the general feeling of "open space", which distinguishes North
Beach from South Beach.
Disposition: The City would consider proposals to lease the Site on a long-term basis.
Disposition revenues and revenue from real estate taxes directly generated by a -...
proposed project will, along with the character and compatibility of the proposed
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r development, and the developer's capacity to implement the project, would be major
criteria for selection.
The City intent is to lease the Site in its "as is" condition, with the developer responsible
for any and all inspections, environmental remediation, if necessary, and demolition and
relocation of existing structures, and any and all other processes or costs associated
with site preparation, as necessary.
Two proposals were received in response to the RFP and on February 23, 2000, the
City Commission adopted Resolution No. 2000-23816 authorizing the Administration to
enter into negotiations with the Pointe at North Beach, pursuant to the 72nd Street Site
RFP, subject to certain conditions, including a project feasibility and compatibility
assessment, finalization of a value in use appraisal, and secure commitments from
Anchor tenants. The proposed project consisted of a 51,500 sf. Publix, 81,465 sf.
movie theater, 36,500 sf. retail/restaurant area, 906 parking spaces and an optional
community theater.
On November 8, 2000, the City Commission adopted Resolution No. 2000-24162
authorizing the Administration to terminate negotiations with the Pointe at North Beach
as a result of the proposer's failure to comply with the aforementioned conditions.
On November 8,2000, the City Commission also adopted Resolution No. 2000-24163
r authorizing the Administration to issue a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) to seek
qualifications from a developer so that City can negotiate a preferred development
alternative for the 72nd Street site.
On March 15, 2000, the City Commission approved the selection of the Chesapeake
Group to study and develop a strategic plan for the economic revitalization of the North
Beach Area. Public Workshops with the Community and area residents were held on
October 19, 2000 and February 15, 2001. On January 16, 24 and February 20,2001,
the plan was presented to the North Beach Development Corporation (NBDC) and to
the North Beach property owners and on February 21, 2001, a report on the North
Beach strategic plan was presented to the City Commission.
Utilizing consultant's market analysis and implementation recommendations and with
input from the community, the City has developed a strategic plan, which is outlined in
the attached exhibit. Utilizing this strategic plan the City, together with the community,
will be able to develop a wide range of development alternatives that will meet the
area's needs and serve to enhance the economic viability of the area.
The RFQ solicited qualified and experienced real estate and development interests to
submit their qualifications and conceptual development proposals for the site. While the
RFQ evaluation criteria was not based on the development concepts submitted, each
proposer outlined development concepts in their responses. The submission of
qualifications coincides with the finalization of the consultant's strategic
recommendations which was discussed at the pre-proposal conference established as
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part of the RFQ process. The selected developer will work with the City and the """"
community to jointly conceive a development project for the subject site that capitalizes
. on and enhances the area-wide strategic goals and direction.
The RFQ was issued on November 27,2000 and amended on December 12, 2000, with
an opening date of January 19,2001, which was later extended to February 2,2001, at
the request of the majority of the attendees at the pre-proposal conference, who felt the
additional time was reqUired to adequately respond to the RFQ. The RFQ notices were
sent to all recipients of the previously authorized RFP that had been advertised in the
Wall Street Journal, Urban land Institute, New York Times, South Florida Business
Journal, Miami Today, and Miami Herald and was additionally advertised in the Daily
Business Review, Small Business Administration website and on the Internet.
Four hundred and sixty-eight (468) specifications were issued and 86 RFQ packages
were delivered, resulting in the receipt of three (3) responsive proposals on February 2,
2001, from the following firms: .
· BAP Development
· Cornerstone/Constructa Team
· Related Group of Florida
A fourth proposal was submitted by Equity One/Zyscovich but was deemed non-
responsive due to an untimely submission of their proposal. -.,
On March 13, 2001, an Evaluation Committee met for more than six (6) hours to review
and discuss the three (3) responsive proposals:
The proposals were evaluated based on the evaluation criteria established within the
RFQ. The Evaluation Committee evaluated all proposals based upon the experience
and track record of the proposer and their financial capability and level of financial
commitment. In summary, the Evaluation Committee deemed that all three developers
demonstrated the adequate experience and track record and reflected the financial
wherewithal to develop the Site. Extensive discussions followed regarding each of the
developers' ability to develop a project that is compatible with and that would serve to
revitalize the area. The Evaluation Committee felt the selected proposer must develop
the site in a manner that will complement the adjacent commercial areas and that will
serve to link 7151 Street to 73rd Street; and will act as a catalyst for the surrounding
areas.
The Evaluation Committee evaluated the three firms on the following criteria: Financial
Capacity (25 points) and Experience and Track Record (75 points).
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r Financial Capacity (25 points)
The Evaluation Committee felt that all three firms are capable of securing financing for
the eventual project to be developed. During the course of the presentations, all three
proposers estimated that the final project cost could be in the $50 million range. The
Related Group received the highest possible ranking in this Category unanimously by
the committee members. The other two proposers similarly received high marks but
were ranked below the Related Group of Florida. All three proposers are rated as low
risk by Dun and Bradstreet, with The Related Group of Florida ranked at the lowest
possible risk factor (1) when compared to the other two proposers.
Experience and Track Record (75 points)
The Evaluation Committee felt that all three teams had excellent professional
qualifications and a desire to work with the community to develop a concept for the site
and to ensure that the development creates the appropriate linkages to other key areas
in North Beach. Due to possible factors outside of the control of the developer, the
Evaluation Committee felt that none of the proposers had an advantage over the other
regarding the timelines and construction schedule that would apply to developing the
project. All three proposers presented previous developments, however, the Selection
Committee felt that the Related Group had the greatest experience in mixed-use
developments which is a desirable concept for the site. The combination of comparable
r projects with Related's excellent professional qualifications and creative vision elevated
their proposal above the others.
Of the nine committee members, The Related Group of Florida received the highest
ranking from seven (7) committee members while the other two (2) committee members
ranked the Cornerstone/Constructa Team highest and The Related Group of Florida
second highest. In aggregate, of a possible 900 points in total, The Related Group of
Florida received 875 points, The Cornerstone/Constructa Team received 844 points and
BAP Development received 842 points. (Refer to Exhibit 1). As a result, the Evaluation
Committee recommended and ranked the proposers as follows: (1) The Related Group
of Florida, (2) The Cornerstone/Constructa Team, (3) BAP Development.
In accordance with the terms of the RFQ, the Administration reviewed the Evaluation
Committee's recommendation and concurred with its recommendation. On April 18,
2001, the Mayor and City Commission accepted the recommendation of the City
Manager pertaining to the ranking of the proposals received in response to the RFQ No.
5-00101 for the development of approximately four (4) acres of city-owned property
known as the "72nd Street Site"; authorizing the Administration to enter into negotiations
with the most qualified firm, and if unsuccessful in negotiating a contract with the most
qualified firm authorizing the Administration to negotiate a contract with the second most
qualified firm, and if unsuccessful in negotiating a contract with the second most
qualified. firm, authorizing the Administration to negotiate a contract with the third most
qualified firm, which have been ranked as follows: (1) The Related Group of Florida, (2)
The Cornerstone/Constructa Team, (3) BAP Development.
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13
""""'I
Since April 2001, the Administration, the community and the developer have been
working on a development concept that achieves the strategic objectives identified at
the community charette held in June 2001. On November 13, the NBDC MBDC CIP
Committee met and voted to approve the Developer's proposed concept. The NBDC
Board will review said proposal on November 20th and a community meeting hosted by
the City will be held on November 26th at the Radisson Deauville at 7p.m. On
November 28, the Mayor and City Commission will be asked to set a public hearing
date for December 19 to consider the first reading of the proposed Development
Agreement.
-..
'1
14
r
17TH STREET SITE
r
The 1 th Street Site is uniquely situated at the north edge of the City's Central Business
District, at 500 1 ih Street. It encompasses two city blocks, totaling 5.86 acres, that are
bounded by 1 ih Street on the North, Washington Avenue on the East, Lincoln Lane on
the South, and Pennsylvania Avenue on the West; Drexel Avenue passes north/south
through the middle of the site. It is surrounded on its northeast, southeast and
southwest quadrants by the National Register (Art Deco) Historic District, designated in
1979 by the National Park Service; only the northwest quadrant is not bounded by this
historic district. In addition, the 17th Street Site is located in the center of the Historic
Convention Village Redevelopment and Revitalization Area, which was designated in
1993 as a Community Redevelopment Area.
Today, the 17th Street Site consists of 506 surface parking spaces and substantially
serves the Jackie Gleason Theater of the Performing Arts (TaPA), the Lincoln Road
Mall, including the New World Symphony (Lincoln Theater), and the Miami Beach
Convention Center. Of significant note, however, the West portion of the 1]lh Street
Site also provides, from time to time, an important exhibition staging lot for major events
at the Convention Center; in particular, the Miami International Boat Show.
The 17th Street Site is currently zoned CCC Civic and Convention Center District, whose
purpose is to accommodate the facilities necessary to support the Convention Center.
Main permitted uses include parking lots, garages, performing arts and cultural facilities,
hotels, merchandise marts, commercial or office development, landscape open space
and parks. The existing maximum height limit is currently 100 feet or eleven (11)
stories. The allowable Floor Area Ratio (FAR) is 2.75.
On January 5, 1998, pursuant to the authorization of the City Commission, the
Administration issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) for the development of public-
private parking facilities in the area south of Dade Boulevard. The City issued the RFP
in order to solicit qualified development teams to bid on certain publicly-owned sites
identified in the RFP and/or to propose the development of parking on privately owned
property. One of the public properties was the 17th Street and Washington Avenue site
("1 th Street Site").
On April 1, 1998, pursuant to a discussion item requested by Commissioner Cruz, the
City Commission directed the Administration to amend the RFP to remove the 17th
Street site from the RFP due to its singular importance commanding the need for its
own RFP. Additionally, the Administration recommended that a professional planning
process be undertaken for the subject site in order to determine its best long range use,
and two other sites were identified as having similar important characteristics. Those
sites being the preferred lot between 18th and 19th Streets on Convention Center Drive
and the 72nd Street site in North Beach. It was further discussed that the previously
mentioned planning process also applies to these two sites. The matter was referred to
the Land Use and Development Committee.
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15
"'""\
At the Land Use and Development Committee Meeting of April 13, 1998, the
Administration described a planning process that would include a comprehensive review
and evaluation of pertinent urban planning and economic development issues, and
community and entertainment industry participation in the use assessment process.
Examples of similar planning processes were described that had been successfully
used in the City such as the site selection for the Library, the Bass Museum addition,
the expansion of the Convention Center, the revitalization of Ocean Drive, and the
Convention Hotel area.
The Committee recommended that the City Commission direct the Administration to
conduct a proper planning process and the City Commission accepted the Land Use
and Development Committees recommendation on May 20, 1998. Thereafter, industry
meetings and roundtable discussions occurred that resulted in a recommendation to the
City Commission on July 20, 1998 to undertake the following:
1. Create a Steering Committee
2. Appropriate funding related to the study and RFP process (to be recouped upon
award of the RFP).
3. Authorize the Administration to select and enter into contracts with professional
consultants to assist with the process and the enclosed material.
After a broad discussion, the City Commission concluded that the Administration should --.
proceed to prepare a request for proposals for the 17th Street site.
At the October 21, 1998 City Commission meeting, Michael Tilson Thomas, Artistic
Director of the New World Symphony (NWS) addressed the City Commission. Mr.
Thomas described the rapid growth and development of the NWS on a national and
international scale. Due to the success of the NWS, the rehearsal, technology and
workshop spaces within the Lincoln Theater on Lincoln Road is now limiting the
exploration of innovative styles of performance and the development of new audiences.
Mr. Thomas, State Representative Elaine Bloom, NWS Board member Joy Malakoff
and President and CEO of the NWS, Chris Dunworth requested that the City
Commission consider the expansion needs of the NWS in relation to the proposed RFP.
The City Commission recognized the importance of such a valuable cultural institution
and requested the Administration to amend the draft RFP to include the expansion
needs of the NWS as part of same.
On November 4, 1999, the Mayor and City Commission adopted Resolution No. 98-
22958 authorizing the issuance of an RFP for the 17th Street Site. On February 17,
1999, the Mayor and City Commission voted to cancel and withdraw the RFP.
Since the RFP was withdrawn, the subject site has been the subject of much staff
discussi.on relative to increased parking needs, enhanced transportation linkages, urban
design issues, historic district considerations, entertainment industry needs, convention -....,
center staging uses and other potential development proposals.
16
r On September 13, 2000, Vice-Mayor Nancy Liebman requested a referral to the Land
Use Committee to discuss the New World Symphony's expansion plans and their
. request for a long-term lease. The NWS proposes to expand into the southwest corner
of the surface lot on Pennsylvania Avenue and Lincoln Lane, directly behind the Lincoln
Theater. The estimated $15 million expansion would occupy approximately a 32,000 sf
foot print (1/3 of the western lot) and does not include any provisions for
newtreplacement parking. These plans are described in a report prepared by Project
Core, Inc. Entitled "Soundspace at the New World Symphony", dated September 7,
2000, and call for the creation of a state-of-the-art facility for teaching, performance,
broadcasting, rehearsals, special performance and related events.
The NWS expansion proposal also contemplates a long-term lease which will be subject
to the provisions of Section 82-36 through 82-40 of the City Code which requires that for
the sale or lease of any City-owned property for a period of five years or more, is
subject to the following conditions:
· a Planning Department analysis
· a public hearing to obtain citizen input
· an advertised public bidding process
· an independent appraisal to determine the fair market or rental value of the
property
,/"'"'
Said Ordinance further provides that except for the public hearing and the Planning
Department analysis, the above referenced conditions may be waived by a 517ths vote of
the City Commission upon a finding that the public interest would be served by waiving
such conditions. As such, waivers will be required for the public bidding process and
independent appraisal for this transaction, if fair market return is not required as part of
the lease transaction.
To accomplish the recommendations of the Land Use Committee, on October 18, 2000,
the Mayor and City Commission authorized negotiations with architectural and
engineering firms and/or authorized issuance of an RFQ to conduct a site analysis and
develop a concept plan for the 17th Street and Washington Avenue Site, incorporating
the proposed expansion of the NWS. The scope of services was envisioned as a two-
phase conceptual development project which focused on the City owned 17th Street
and Washington Avenue surface parking lots as developmental hubs for the City
Center/Historic Convention Village Redevelopment Area. This area includes City Hall,
the Convention Center, Jackie Gleason Theater .of the Performing Arts, Botanical
Gardens and Holocaust Memorial, as well as pedestrian linkages to Lincoln Road and
the Collins Park Cultural Center.
On February 21, 2001, the City Commission authorized negotiations with Zyscovich,
Inc. and, on April 18, 2001, the City Commission authorized the execution of a contract
with Zyscovich to undertake Phase I. Phase I involves a site study, utilization analysis
and development of preliminary concept designs. Deliverables include a site utilization
report and preliminary concept plan that addresses the needs of the Convention Center
r""'
17
and the NWS, evaluates parking and transportation requirements, respects the need for ~
an open space public plaza, identifies opportunities for gateway entrance features,
evaluates the need and location of an Intermodal Center, and complements the
adjacent urban relationships and historic districts. Exhibit A lists the groups with which
Zyscovich has met to discuss or gather information pertinent to the site utilization study
for Phase I.
On September 14, 2001, Zyscovich introduced Phase I site utilization options during a
Joint Board Workshop of the Planning, Historic Preservation and Design Review
Boards. On September 21, 2001, a Special City Commission Workshop was held and
input was received from the Mayor and City Commission.
The City Commission comments received at the workshop held on September 21, 2001
have been incorporated in the options and other issues outlined below. During Phase
II, these issues will be addressed and will guide the creation of a Master Plan that will
update the 1993 City Center/Historic Hotel Convention District Redevelopment Plan.
Phase II will also incorporate the development of an implementation strategy.
Zyscovich will focus on this strategy in detail by evaluating potential growth and future
urban needs for the City's office market, hospitality, entertainment, arts and cultural
industries and identifying potential components that will enhance the economic viability
and long term sustainability of the surrounding area. This process will involve additional
sub-consultants in fields including, but not limited to, parking, hospitality,
traffic/transportation, landscaping and finance.' ---,
On October 17, 2001, the Mayor and City Commission directed the City Administration
to proceed to negotiate with the New World Symphony regarding their proposed
expansion, "Sound Space", a technologically advanced recording and communications
facility. The work performed in Phase II will result in preliminary schematics and
drawings, identifying complimentary uses for the site, so the City can to set forth a
development schedule and identify funding and respective construction obligations to
begin implementation of the project. Phase II will also include extensive
community/stakeholder outreach and consensus building and will attempt to address
the other components of the master plan that have not yet been finalized.
Below is a description of the primary components of the preliminary proposed master
plan, outlining the existing use, proposed use, design review process required, funding
alternatives, options for each component and other issues affecting the preliminary
proposed master plan.
'1
18
r 17TH STREET SITE
Existing Use: 506 Surface parking spaces
Proposed Use: In order to create a centrally located civic park with community cultural
influences, the eastern 50% of the 1ih Street site has been identified as a sloping,
terraced park that can be used as an amphitheater. The park would have in it NWS
Sound Space Building that would incorporate a large size LCD screen on the fac;ade
facing the park to show recordings happening inside the sound vault and to display
cultural events from around the world. There would also be a smaller terrace park on
the West side of the site. Access to the site from the Convention Center would involve
walking through a portion of the new Botanical Gardens surrounding TOPA, or alternate
development, across the re-vegetated 17th Street Boulevard and into the site which
welcomes the visitor with a rising, green lawn and a gently sloping ramp. Continuing
through the site over Lincoln Lane and down the pedestrian end of Drexel Avenue, is a
cascading stairway that would create a threshold to Lincoln Road. If an elevated park is
developed, the ramp would take the visitor up to a height of 12 feet where the lobby to
Sound Space and the upper terraces of the two parks are located. If park is developed
at grade, a terraced staircase would be developed and the entryway to Lincoln Road
would be at grade.
Zoning: Section 142-362: CCC Civic and Convention Center District. Main permitted
r uses in the CCC civic and convention center district are parking lots, garages,
performing arts and cultural facilities; hotel; merchandise mart; commercial or office
development; landscape open space; parks. Any use not listed, shall only be approved
after the city commission holds a public hearing.
Design Review Process: ORB approval will be required. Planning Board review
required for NWS use of property.
Funding: Private Improvements: NWS private capital campaign. Public Improvements:
City Center Tax Increment Funds, Grant Funds, and/or Convention Development Tax
(COT).
Options: Proceed with NWS Expansion and further refine park components and traffic
circulation. Analyze an elevated park vs. at grade park.
Other:
· Identify a property line for the NWS Expansion. The site should allow for
approximately 33, 000 square feet of program on the ground floor and a height of
approximately 60 feet. The program would include the large LCD screen on the
building fac;ade as a community amenity.
· If it is decided to unify the two sides of the site, to allocate park space to the
pedestrian, it will be necessary to authorize the termination of Drexel Avenue to
automobile traffic at the South side of Lincoln Road.
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· Determine the amount of parking that should be located on the site parking -....
structure.
· Displaced parking must be addressed in (A) City Hall/Equity One lot or (B) Plot,
and/or (C) on the western portion of the 1i" Street lot.
· Parking bond covenants may apply.
· Functionality of site will need to be further analyzed.
· Operations, maintenance and programming of park will need to be determined.
· Phase I Environmental Study has been performed with favorable results.
· Elevated park with parking underneath vs. at grade park with parking on the western
side of the site adjacent to NWS.
· FPL vaults exist on-site that will be difficult to relocate at a cost in excess of $1
million.
DISPLACED PARKING
Concept: Displaced parking will need to be replaced.
Zoning: Section 142-362: CCC Civic and Convention Center District. Main permitted
uses in the CCC civic and convention center district are parking lots, garages,
performing arts and cultural facilities; hotel; merchandise mart; commercial or office
development; landscape open space; parks. Any use not listed, shall only be approved
after the city commission holds a public hearing.
--..
Design Review Process: ORB approval will be required.
Funding: COT, Parking Revenue Bonds, City Center tax increment funds.
Options:
· Displaced Parking Phasing
· Parking behind City Hall.
· Develop parking at the P-Iot.
· Develop parking in the 17th Street west lot adjacent to NWS.
Other:
. Finalize Walker Parking Demand Study.
. Pursue parking in City Hall and Equity One lot - short-term.
. Building parking structure in P-Iot -long-term.
P-LOT
Existing Use: 800 surface parking spaces.
Proposed Use: The Convention Center expansion in the "preferred lot" would allow for
approximately 208,400 square feet of additional exhibition space, and approximately
1,900 parking spaces in a four story parking structure above, representing .-..
approximately a net increase of 1,100 spaces. In order for the Convention Center
20
r expansion and garage to work efficiently, a speed ramp to the garage is proposed to be
located in the Northeast corner of the current Botanical Gardens. This condition along
with the desire to better integrate the Gardens into the heart of the community spurred
the relocation of the Botanical Gardens to the small parking lot behind and the land
surrounding the TOPA. This move would create a gateway to the re-vegetated 17th
Street corridor and rejuvenate the block on which the TOPA is located.
Zoning: Section 142-362: CCC Civic and Convention Center District Main permitted
uses in the CCC civic and convention center district are parking lots, garages,
performing arts and cultural facilities; hotel; merchandise mart; commercial or office
development; landscape open space; parks. Any use not listed, shall only be approved
after the city commission holds a public hearing.
Design Review Process: ORB approval will be required.
Funding: Convention Development Tax (COT)
Options:
. Maintain in "as is" condition.
. Build entire structure.
. Build entire structure leaving ground floor as shell (cost efficiency).
. Build eastern half of structure and complete structure as Phase II.
r . Do not relocate Botanical Gardens and incorporate ramp into new proposed
expansion structure, if developed.
Other:
. The City would need to reserve the preferred lot for the future expansion of the
Convention Center, as well as authorize further analysis of the site and the
program of the expansion building.
. Proposed expansion structure can consists of up to:
. Four (4) decks above 35 ft 1st floor
. 208,400 sf exhibition hall and 1900 spaces
. Parking Bond Issues may apply.
. Design/Cost and Timeframe must be developed.
. NMMA contact (Boat Show) - one (1) year advance notice of construction must
be given.
. Convention Center Expansion Study (CSL) Study should be evaluated before
any expansion plan is finalized.
. Ramp tied into Botanical Gardens and loading dock and servicing of new
convention hall will have to be evaluated.
DREXEL AVENUE
Existing Use: Two-way vehicle and pedestrian access-way between 17th Street and
r Espanola Way.
21
Proposed Use: To create the connection between Lincoln Road and Espanola Way, """'"
the roadway it is proposed that Drexel Avenue be narrowed enough to add street trees
and widen sidewalks. Parallel parking would remain and improvements would extend
from Lincoln Road, South, to the dead end of Drexel Avenue, just past Espanola Way.
The beautification of Drexel Avenue would encourage pedestrian activity to flow from
Lincoln Road to Espanola Way and vice versa, linking the two areas of activity together
through two blocks of historic Art Deco neighborhood.
Zoning:
Design Review Process: Historic Preservation Board approval will be required.
Funding: City Center Tax Increment Funds, Community Development Block Grant
(CDBG) Funds, and/or CDT.
Options:
. Close Drexel Avenue.
. No Closure of Drexel Avenue.
. Partial Closure; closing Drexel Avenue at Lincoln Lane.
. One Way Drexel Avenue.
Other:
. Perform traffic study to analyze effects of options.
. In order to unify the two sides of the site and to allocate park space to the
pedestrian, it will be necessary to authorize the termination of Drexel Avenue to
automobile traffic at the South side of Lincoln Road.
. The street beautification would need to be incorporated into the city's plans to
improve Espanola Way and the intersection at Drexel Avenue, to extend down
the length of Drexel Avenue.
"'""
OPENING-UP LINCOLN LANE TO WASHINGTON AVENUE
Existing Use: Lincoln Lane is presently closed at the Washington Avenue intersection.
Proposed Use: Open the intersection ",t Lincoln Lane onto Washington Avenue.
Zoning: N/A
Design Review Process: Historic Preservation Board approval will be required.
Funding: City Center tax increment funds.
Options:
. Maintain Lincoln Lane closed onto Washington Avenue
. Open Lincoln Lane onto Washington Avenue
---
22
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Other:
. . Opening of intersection will be dependent on park design
BOTANICAL GARDENS RELOCATION
Existing Use: Currently located adjacent to the Holocaust Memorial, fronting the
Convention Center. TOPA lot contains approximately 112 parking spaces and serves
the Convention CenterlTOPA valet lot.
Proposed Use: Relocate Botanical Gardens, which is undergoing an extensive
renovation and new construction, to the existing TOPA lot. TOPA lot must provide a
pe.destrian linkage from Convention Center to Lincoln Road. Even if Botanical Gardens
is not relocated, an alternative plan for the 555fTOPA site would need to be developed.
Therefore, the Botanical Gardens relocation is optimal solution, particularly in light of the
Botanical Gardens' planned existing building demolition and reconstruction of a new
building and new landscaping plan and boundary issue with Holocaust Memorial.
Zoning: Section 142-362: CCC Civic and Convention Center District Main permitted
uses in the CCC civic and conve'ntion center district are parking lots, garages,
performing arts and cultural facilities; hotel; merchandise mart; commercial or office
development; landscape open space; parks. Any use not listed, shall only be approved
after the city commission holds a public hearing.
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Design Review Process: DRB approval will be required.
Funding: CDT, Center Tax Increment Funds, State Cultural Facilities Grant, Voluntary
Contributions, Fundraising Campaign by Garden Conservancy.
Options:
. Relocate Gardens to TOPA lot
. Retain Gardens at its current site
. Identify other anchor facility to provide linkage between Convention Center, 1ih
Street site and Lincoln Road.
Other:
. Declination study must be performed on new site.
. Relocation cost benefit analysis must be performed
. State Cultural Facilities Grant funding in the amount of $500,000 is in jeopardy if
funds are not encumbered, Le. contractor hired and design completed, by
October 2002 (less than 12 months from now)
. New use of existing site will need to be determined
. Proposed new location for the Botanical Gardens will cause:
. Displaced parking
. Displaced building users that need to be accommodated.
r . Operation and maintenance of facility will need to be negotiated beyond the
current Management Agreement with the Garden Conservancy
23
.
Planning Board review will be required if the Botanical Gardens facility is leased
Landscape/Streetscape Design for Convention Center Drive will need to be
developed
~.
.
BUS ROUTE CHANGES
Existing Use: The bus routes have been changed as a result of the Collins Avenue
reconstruction project. The proposed route changes are primarily consistent with the
temporary routes in place at this time.
Proposed Use: The current location of the bus transfer area on Lincoln Road creates
an inefficient loop at the midpoint or end of several bus routes, and creates traffic
congestion at the end of Lincoln Road. The suggestion is to move the transfer area for
all bus routes to the blocks on Washington Avenue between Lincoln Road and 18th
Street, and along 1th Street between Washington Avenue and Pennsylvania. Moving
the transfer area to these locations would also place the activity of bus patrons closer to
the proposed 1 th Street park, the relocated Botanical Gardens, TOPA, and City Hall.
Other:
. Immediate action recommended because of Collins Avenue closure has resulted
in temporary new bus routes that are recommended to remain in place.
. City Commission action affirming endorsement of new bus routes as permanent
and forward said recommendation to MOTA. -..
. A letter of recommendation for adjustments to the bus routes should be written to
the Miami Dade Transit Authority authorizing implementation of the proposed
changes.
. Bus node on Washington Avenue and 1 th Street will not be located in front of
Greenview Hotel.
LINCOLN ROAD STREETSCAPE IMPROVEMENTS BETWEEN WASHINGTON
AVENUE AND COLLINS AVENUE:
Concept: Improve Lincoln Road Streetscape between Washington and Collins
Avenues creating median and pedestrian crossovers.
Design Review Process: Historic Preservation Board approval will be required
Funding: City Center tax increment funds.
Options:
Other:
. Contingent on relocation of Bus Routes
. Tie-in with Ritz-Carlton streetscape improvements
. The Lincoln Road Extension Improvements could be made part of the overall -..
street beautification plans including 16th and 15th Streets.
24
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ELIMINATION OF INTERMODAl OPTION
Concept: City's Consultant recommends that there is not a need for an intermodal
facility as described below.
Funding: Federal monies to partially fund an Intermodal facility have been secured.
Options:
. Do not construct an intermodal facility.
. Construct an intermodal facility.
Other:
. Subject to Carr Smith Intermodal Feasibility Study.
. Tied into Light Rail Study.
. Must identify the location of the shuttle charging station.
. If the 17th Street and Lenox Avenue site is more desirable, then it should also be
determined if a parking deck should be built above the charging facility, and any
additional buildings for small retail shops as buffers.
SHUTTLE CHARGING STATION
1- Existing Use: Currently located at Terminal Island within Fleet Maintenance facility.
Proposed Use: After careful review of the intermodal study, the City's consultant has
determined that there is not a need for such a large facility in South Beach. There is
however, a need for a convenient location of an Electrowave Shuttle charging station.
Two potential locations for this charging station were identified: the first on 1ih Street
and Lenox Avenue which would have a parking deck above, the second could be
located in the City Hall expansion and garage on 18th Street and Meridian Avenue on
the City Hall side of the expansion site. Both of these locations can easily be worked
into the current shuttle routes with minimal changes, either location would also provide
for convenient access to fresh batteries needed to keep the shuttles operating properly.
Zoning: Site specific.
Design Review Process: Design Review approval will be required.
Funding: Some Federal/State funding is available.
Options:
. Locate charging station adjacent to City Hall
. Locate charging station at Lenox Avenue & 1th Street lot.
. Other altemative location subject to Electrowave long range plan.
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25
Other: ~
. Long range plan for Electrowave needs to completed, pending its one year
review.
. Alternative - incorporate into structure if built and then abandoned.
. FTA approval may be required.
. If the City Hall expansion site is more appropriate for the charging facility, then
there will be a need for a greater commitment to the program of the garage and
office spaces with the charging station below.
PENNSYLVANIA AVENUE AND 17TH STREET GARAGE
Existing Use: 1407 space parking garage.
Proposed Use: A potential location for an open marketplace has been located at the
city garage on Pennsylvania Avenue. The addition of this market would add to the
street life and interest of the walk to Lincoln Road from the North. By removing the pre-
cast panels on the ground floor at the first bay of parking spaces, sheltered stalls could
be created within the gc;lrage structure. The market place would be for artists and
farmers currently selling their artwork, jewelry, produce on the street and give a location
from which they could conduct more consistent business. This change to the garage is
a very simple physical alteration, and only results in a loss of 20 parking spaces
however; by merely adding another use to the stagnant garage structure, the quality of
street life would be dramatically improved along Pennsylvania Avenue.
-\
Zoning: Section 142-362: CCC Civic and Convention Center District. Main permitted
uses in the CCC civic and convention center district are parking lots, garages,
performing arts and cultural facilities; hotel; merchandise mart; commercial or office
development; landscape open space; parks. Any use not listed, shall only be approved
after the city commission holds a public hearing.
Design Review Process: ORB approval will be required.
Funding: COT, Parking Revenue Bonds, City Center tax increment funds.
Options:
. Create marketplace stalls and displace 20 spaces
. Leave garage "as is"
Other:
. Planning Board approval if leases are entered into
. Need to investigate how the market stalls would be created
. Structural report on garage is being conducted and will need to study if head
room is sufficient in light of structural beam on 151 floor
. Displaced parking - loose 20 spaces
. Bond issues may need to be addressed
. Need to investigate tax exempt status of the facility as a result of private use.
--
26
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POTENTIAL SEQUENCY OF MASTER PLAN COMPONENTS
. Create parking adjacent to City Hall to address displaced parking on 17th Street.
. Develop 17th Street west lot with NWS and parking.
. P-Iot Convention Center Expansion construction will require decision on
relocation of Botanical Gardens because of TOPA and Convention Center Drive.
. P-lot design tied to Botanical Gardens relocation because of ramp placement.
. Botanical Gardens permanent location will need to be determined as soon as
possible so as not to jeopardize state grant funds. If the Gardens are not
relocated, an alternate ramp will need to be incorporated in P-Lot structure.
. Once P-Iot is developed, the balance of the east side of 17th Street lot can be
developed.
. Bus Route changes must be approved in order to pursue Lincoln Road
Streetscape improvements and can be initiated independent of other items.
. Shuttle charging station must be addressed if City Hall and Equity One parking
garage is built.
. Pennsylvania Avenue and 17th Street Garage market retail can be initiated
independent of other items contingent upon structural analysis currently being
performed on garage.
r
Other issues will be preliminarily addressed in Phase II such as the need to expand City
Hall for administrative office space, defining a buffer zone with Holocaust Memorial,
streetscape improvements for Convention Center Drive, streetscape improvements for
16th Street east-west corridor, potential re-zoning of 1ih Street, analysis of the 21st
Street Community Center and establishment of Dade Boulevard Traffic Circles.
On October 17, 2001, the Ma~or and City Commission accepted the preliminary
proposed master plan for the 17' Street site, and directed the Administration to finalize
and refine said preliminary proposed master plan as phase II of the study, for
presentation to the planning board for subsequent final adoption by the Mayor and City
Commission; directed the administration to negotiate with the NWS to proceed with its
expansion project; and further authorized the administration to formally request Miami-
Dade Transit Authority bus route changes consistent with the preliminary proposed
master plan.
Several community and stakeholders meetings are scheduled over the next 30 days as
follows:
PHASE II PUBLIC MEETING
DATE: November 19, 2001, (Monday)
TIME: 7 pm-9 pm
LOCATION: Miami Beach Community Church
Hice Hall
r 1620 Drexel Avenue (fronts on Lincoln Road)
INVITED: General Public (three advertisements); Political Respresentatives
27
Meeting Notice faxed AND emailed to the City's Civic Organizations List -..,
. The purpose of this Public Meeting is to discuss the preliminary proposal for the 1ih
Street Site Master Plan and to encourage community input into the Plan. The City's
political representatives and their aides have been invited for this event.
TRANSPORTATION MEETING
DATE: November 27,2001, (Tuesday)
TIME: 3 pm-5 pm
LOCATION: City Manager's Large Conference Room
INVITED: CMB Transportation and Parking Committee Co Chair (Marty Hyman)
Miami Dade Transit (Danny Alvarez)
Planning Department (Tom Mooney)
CMB Transportation & Concurrency (Johnson & Johnson)
CIP Project Planner (Donald Shockey)
The purpose of the meeting is to coordinate and formalize bus route changes with MD
Transit after the 11/19/01 Public Meeting. Additionally, other transportation related
issues such as traffic circulation will be discussed. A brief update on the progress of the
plan may be needed but a full presentation is not necessary.
BUSINESS AND TOURISM COMMUNITY PRESENTATION
DATE: November 29,2001, (Thursday)
TIME: 6:30-8:30 pm
LOCATION: Miami Beach Convention Center, 1901 Convention Center Drive
Room B210
INVITED: Greater Miami & the Beaches Hotel Association
Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce
South Beach Hotel & Restaurant Association
South Beach Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
Miami Beach Latin Chamber of Commerce
Nightlife Industry Task Force
Ocean Drive Association
Lincoln Road Marketing Council
Washington Avenue Stakeholders
Area Hotels
Interested members of the public
The purpose of this meeting is to further discuss the proposed City Center/1 ih Street
Site Master Plan with the business community in order to identify and resolve concerns
as well as to encourage input into the plan.
TRANSPORTATION AND PARKING COMMITTEE PRESENTATION
DATE: December 3,2001, (Monday)
TIME: 3:30 pm-5:30 pm
LOCATION: Convention Center Executive Conference Room
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(4th Floor)(1901 Convention Center Drive)
The purpose of the meeting is to present the plan to this committee, which has not
hosted a presentation heretofore. .
ARTS & CULTURE PRESENTATION
DATE: December 6, 2001, (Thursday)
TIME: 7 pm - 9 pm
LOCATION: City of Miami Commission Chambers (3rd Floor of City Hall)
INVITED: Art in Public Places Committee
Arts, Culture and Entertainment
Cultural Arts Council & Grant Sub recipient Organizations
ArtCenter South Florida
Interested members of the public
The purpose of this meeting is to encourage input and support for the concept plan from
the arts community, including large cultural institutions and stakeholders.
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PARKING STUDY
On October 18, 2000, the Mayor and City Commission approved a referral to the Joint
Land Use and Finance Committee to seek input and recommendations regarding the
potential identification of parking projects to be funded by unspent Parking Revenue
Bond Funds in addition to approximately $15 million. The potential development of a
13th Street Garage was specifically referred to the Transportation and Parking
Committee and the Joint Land Use and Finance Committee for their respective review
and/or recommendation. On November 27,2000, the Joint Land Use and Finance and
Citywide Projects Committee met and endorsed the Administration's recommendation to
(1) purchase additional parking meter housings and (2) appropriate more funding for
parking surface lot renovations. A third project was discussed which included a list of
11 alternative projects that involve potential land acquisition for parking expansion
and/or parking garage developments. As a result of the committees' discussion, the
following projects were to be considered for potential parking expansion and/or parking
garage developments, including:
.
North Beach Lot by Normandy Fountain - site acquisition
17th Street and Washington Avenue
17th Street and Convention Center Drive (TOPA lot)
Convention Center - Preferred Lot
13th Street Surface Lot - Potential Garage
Hotel Corridor Garage
Cultural Campus Garage
Cejas lot - 420 Lincoln Road, Public-Private Venture
Intermodal Facility
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.
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.
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As part of the presentation to the joint Committees, the Administration recommended
that the City conduct a citywide parking study, incorporating the aforementioned
sites/projects, prior to proceeding with the development of any of the aforementioned
alternatives.
The Administration deemed it was appropriate to take a comprehensive approach in
assessing existing and future parking demand by analyzing all the major corridors in the
City. While the City is subdivided into three areas geographically, South, Middle, and
North, it is important to identify [parking] generators within these corridors and plan for
the potential shared use of strategically placed surface lots and/or multi-level facilities
within close proximity to abutting corridors within these three major subdivisions.
The Parking Demand Analysis will serve as a blueprint for the Parking System to plan,
develop, and implement its Capital Projects Plan. There are six study areas outlined.
Each area is unique and has its own characteristics.
In accordance with the Committee direction, the Committee/Commission approved a ___
draft scope of services to be included in an RFP to conduct a citywide parking study.
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On December 4, 2000, the Transportation and Parking Committee endorsed the
Administration recommendations as stated above. The South Pointe Advisory
Committee has also discussed addressing parking needs for the South Pointe Area.
Therefore, in order to determine the priority focus and viability of each project, on
February 21, 2001 the Mayor and City Commission adopted a Resolution authorizing
the issuance of and RFP to undertake a parking demand analysis to project the future
parking demand together with the performance of a feasibility study.
The Scope of Services encompasses a study area bounded by South Pointe Drive on
the south, 87th Terrace on the north, Biscayne Bay on the west, and the Atlantic Ocean
01) the east. For ease of compilation and reference, the study areas will be subdivided
and prioritized into the following geographical areas; however, it is essential that
abutting areas be taken into account to accurately reflect the overall needs of the
district
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
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North Beach - 63rd Street to 87th Terrace.
South Pointe - South Pointe Drive to 5th Street
South Beach - 5th Street to 17th Street
Hotel Corridor/South - Collins/James Avenue between 17th Street and
23rd Street, including Cultural Campus area.
Hotel CorridorlNorth - Collins Avenue/Indian Creek between 23rd Street
and 41 st Street.
Middle Beach - 41st to 63rd Street.
The citywide parking study will address the following tasks:
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1. Physical Inventory and Analysis - Physical inventory and analysis
includes a snapshot review of current citywide parking operations and
characteristics and then explores changes to that system in response to
growth and operational changes. Data collection activities include review
and gathering of inventory and use data, financial information on the
parking system, maps, previously prepared reports, user surveys and
drawings.
2. Projection of Future Parking Demand and Need - Projection of future
parking demand and need will occur simultaneously with the assessment
of existing parking conditions. Three development scenarios will be
evaluated, existing, year 2006, and year 2011. The parking model will
project the demand for a series of altematives that represent various
outcomes of proposed development projects.
3.
Cost and Feasibility Analysis - Cost and feasibility analysis will be
conducted as part of this task. If the parking model and analysis
completed to this point indicates that additional parking structures are
needed, the successful proposer will complete a parking structure
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feasibility study. This evaluation will determine the most feasible and "'"'"
sustainable parking expansion in order to preserve the functional integrity
of the existing parking system or, if expansion of the parking system is
recommended, the location and configuration of feasible new facilities.
4. Public Involvement - Public involvement will be a critical element to the
success of the parking improvement plan. As discussed in the RFP, the
following meetings or presentations will be conducted:
. Project initiation: an opportunity for public input and comment at the
initial stages of the project
. Preliminary study findings
· Study findings
. Planning board, Joint Land Use and Finance Committee,
Transportation and Parking Committee, and City Commission, and
other Committees as deemed appropriate.
As the study is conducted, the Transportation and Parking Committee will review
elements of the study and provide advice prior to submission of the final report to the
City Commission.
On May 2, 2001, the committee convened and evaluated proposals received from all
three firms that responded to the RFP
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Top ranked firm:
Second ranked firm:
Third ranked firm:
Walker Parking Consultants
HNTB Corporation
Urbitran Associates, Inc.
On May 18, 2001, the City Commission authorized the Administration to negotiate with
Walker Parking Consultants and inasmuch as the North Beach Planning Charrette was
scheduled for June 7 and 8, the City Commission authorized the City Manager to
execute a professional services agreement with Walker Consultants for the North Beach
component, which will include the following: The projection of future parking needs that
is essential to planning the 71st Business District, the 72nd Street Site, the Banqshell
Park area, Parking for North Shore Park Youth Center, Parking for Byron Carlyle
Theater, and the North Beach Recreational Corridor.
On July 25, 2001, the Mayor and City Commission authorized execution of the contract
with Walker Parking Consultants for the remaining portion of the citywide study.
The following schedule was negotiated in Walker's contract:
A.
B.
C.
Supply/Demand Analysis
Alternative Analysis
Financial Analysis
8-10weeks
4 - 6 weeks *
3-6 weeks *
*
(Financial Analysis and Alternative Analysis will run concurrent.)
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The Transportation and Parking Committee has since requested inclusion of a greater
detailed analysis ofthe Flamingo Park area.
Therefore, the study is expected to be completed by the 1st Quarter of 2002.
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SMG
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On December 19, 1990, the City of Miami Beach entered into a Management Services
Agreement with Spectacor Management Group (SMG) for the management of the
Miami Beach Convention Center (MBCC) and the Jackie Gleason Theater of the
Performing Arts (Gleason). The Agreement was for an initial term of three-years,
commencing on January 1,1990, and ending December 31,1993. On June 30,1993,
the City exercised its option to extend the Agreement for two successive one-year terms
covering the period of January 1, 1994, through December 31, 1995. On April 19, 1995,
the City Commission approved the waiver of formal bidding procedures for the
Management Contract, thus extending the Management Services Agreement with SMG,
aAd approving a new Agreement for the period of October 1, 1995, through September
30,1998.
On December 5, 1997, the City of Miami Beach issued Request for Proposals (RFP)
No. 5-97102, seeking proposals from qualified firms for the management aod operation
of MBCC and/or Gleason. On April 1, 1998, the City Commission adopted a Resolution
for the Administration to enter into negotiations for a Management Services Agreement
with the recommended firm of SMG pursuant to the recommendation of the City
Manager and the Evaluation Committee.
On July 15, 1998, the City approved the Agreement for the period of October 1, 1998
through September 30, 2001 with two one-year renewable options. ~
On September 5, 2001, the Mayor and City Commission adopted Resolution No. 2001.-
24573 renewing the contract for the additional two remaining years under the following
terms:
. Base management fee from original agreement of $271,798, to be adjusted
annually by CPt.
. Incentive fee, to a maximum of base management fee, to be earned based on
the following criteria:
A. 40 percentage credits on maintenance of facilities and equipment, as for meeting
or exceeding the maintenance goals set forth in the approved and adopted
maintenance and operation manual for the facilities, including the comprehensive
preventive maintenance program. Such evaluation shall take into account the
quarterly review of the Property Management Department and a yearly review by
an outside independent party. such as the Miami-Dade County General Services
Administration Property Management Division. Additionally, on a monthly basis,
a maintenance report will be submitted to the CCAB for their review.
B.
20 percentage credits on net financial performance.
. 2% increase over previous year 5 percentage credits
. 2.1 - 4% increase over previous year 7 percentage credits
. Over 4% increase over previous year 8 percentage credits
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*Exclude Microsoft revenue and expense from 2000/2001 from incentive calculations in
.2001-2002.
*Excludes increase in concession sales due to percentage increase in extended Volume
Services America Agreement.
*For purposes of incentive calculations in the renewal period, any increase in
Windstorm Insurance from the 2000/2001 actual expense will not be considered.
C. 10 percentage credits on monitoring of the food and beverages services provided
by Volume Services America.
. Improvements in client evaluation results 3 percentage credits
. Per capita sales increase at Convention Center 4 percentage credits
. Per capita of sales increase at Gleason Theater 3 percentage credits
D. 30 percentage credits on booking of events at the Gleason Theatre.
. 210 booked use days 30 percentage credits
. 200 booked use days 25 percentage credits
. 190 booked use days 20 percentage credits
. 180 booked use days 15 percentage credits
r SMG will provide $15,000 at the commencement of each option year exercised
($30,000 total) for the establishment of a scholarship fund for needy Miami Beach
residents pursuing a career in Public Facilities Management or Hospitality Management.
Also, as per the existing Agreement, SMG agreed to provide to the City $66,000 for the
two-year extension to be used at the City's discretion.
The CCAB assisted the Administration with recommendations during the negotiation
period. The CCAB met on June 26, 2001 to discuss the terms negotiated for the
renewal options. On July 24, 2001 the CCAB passed a motion to recommend the
exercising of the renewal options as negotiated for the period of October 1, 2001
through September 30,2003.
SMG and the Miami Beach Convention Center have been the recipient of the Facilities
Destination Magazine, 2001 Prime Site Award, and have been a four time consecutive
awardee.
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THE PARKS AND RECREATION BLUE RIBBON CITIZENS COMMITTEE
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The park and recreation blue ribbon citizens committee is a diverse cross section of
residents and concerned organizations charged with a review of the park and recreation
system. The group was formed as a pro-active response to expressed concerns about
the nature and quality of programming of the park and recreation system.
The Committee is charged with a review of all parks, park programming and appropriate
policy issues to determine if the needs and interests of our citizens are adequately
addressed. The review has been underway for about two months and should be
completed in mid 2002. The expected product of the Committee are recommendations
that will serve as a blueprint for the park and recreation system to improve the
programming and other aspects of the system to better align with and address citizen
desires. The review and any recommendations are expected to be comprehensive.
The Committee will cease to exist upon the completion of their review and transmittal of
a set of recommendations to the administration.
The following is the Charter for the Parks and Recreation Blue Ribbon Citizens
Committee:
Miami Beach Parks and Recreation Programs and Facilities Blue Ribbon Citizens
Committee '-,
On June 6, 2001, the City Commission referred the creation of a Parks and Recreation
Blue Ribbon Citizens' Committee to the Neighborhoods Committee for discussion and
action. The Neighborhoods Committee met on July 17, 2001 and approved the creation
of the Parks and Recreation Programs and Facilities Blue Ribbon Citizens Committee.
The Neighborhoods Committee recommended approval in a report to the City
Commission on July 25, 2001.
This document serves as the initial Charter for this Blue Ribbon Citizens Committee.
Purpose: The purpose of the Blue Ribbon Committee is to comprehensively
examine the City's parks programming and facilities to properly address the needs of
the City's diverse community. This examination will include a review of existing services,
an analysis of high quality programs offered in similar communities, conducting user
assessments, facilitating community meetings with system users, defining standards for
programming and service, and producing a blueprint for further action.
Work Product: The Blue Ribbon Committee is expected to develop for
consideration by the City Manager and City Commission a blueprint that outlines a
series of improvements that will enhance the overall quality and accessibility of the
City's programs, facilities and uses that will result in a Parks and Recreation Department ___
that meets the needs and expectations of the City's residents.
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Scope of Work: The Blue Ribbon Committee will examine the City's current services
and programs, conduct surveys and interviews, analyze the potential for partnerships
with community-based organizations to increase programming and capacity, define
system standards, identify service gaps, review alternatives and enhancements, and
make recommendations that will address the needs of the system's users. The end goal
is to produce a blueprint of recommendations that considers the community's needs and
is the best interests of the City and its residents.
Authority: The Blue Ribbon Committee has the authority to collect information
needed to examine the scope of work delineated. City Staff and related
boards/committees should serve as resources to the Committee. Participating City staff
are requested to' devote a reasonable amount of time and resources toward the
completion of the scope of work.
The Blue Ribbon Committee is an advisory body and does not have the authority to
make binding decisions.
Members: The recommended composition of the Blue Ribbon Committee is as
follows:
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Lisa Austin - Scott Rakow Youth Center Board representative
Mark Baranek - Middle Beach Resident
Andrew Batavia - Barrier Free Committee representative
Regina Berman - North Beach Resident
Jay Chipy - North Beach Resident
Gary Heffner - Parks & Recreation Facilities Board representative
Brenda Jordan - North Beach Resident
Jodie Knofsky - Middle Beach Resident
Debra Leibowitz - South Beach Resident
Scott Lipman - Golf Advisory Committee representative
Julio Magrisso - North Beach Resident
Aileen Phelan - South Beach Resident
Michelle Rivera - Committee for Quality Education representative
Dr. Jacqueline Salazar - Middle Beach Resident
Stacey Shane-Nusbaum - Middle Beach Resident
Amy Turkel - South Beach Resident
The membership of the Blue Ribbon Committee represents a cross section of residents.
Although each member could be construed to represent a particular constituency, it is
expected that each member will act in the best interest of the City. The members of the
Committee are expected tp serve until the Work Product is completed.
The Committee Chair will be elected at the first meeting of the Blue Ribbon Committee
by a majority of the members. The Neighborhoods Services Department, along with the
Office of Children Affairs and the Parks and Recreation Department will provide support
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and other resources for the Blue Ribbon Committee. The Committee will be free to -.
assign its members to specific duties consistent with this charter, if needed, and will
also be able to create subcommittees, or other smaller works groups, to examine
information.
Meetings: The meetings of the Blue Ribbon Committee are expected to be open to
the public and its meeting times and places will be advertised consistent with noticing
requirements prior to commencement. The Committee will need to determine the
frequency and length of meetings, as well as the format and types of information to be
discussed at the meetings. The Blue Ribbon Committee will keep records of its
meetings and will be open for inspection by the public.
Point of Contact: The Blue Ribbon Committee's Point of Contact with the City
Administration will be the City Manager. The Committee Chair is expected to provide
the City Manager with updates at least once per month and, more frequently, if
significant milestones are reached or if significant issues arise requiring further
guidance. The Blue Ribbon Committee will meet with the City Manager to present the
final Work Product and recommendations.
Background: The Recreation Division has been committed to providing
recreational activities and facilities for people of all cultures, ages and abilities. The
Recreation Division strives to offer new and exciting programs and classes to meet the
ever-changing needs of our residents. They work cooperatively with governmental and
community organizations such as Miami-Dade County Public Schools, Police Athletic
League, Boys and Girls Club, area homeowners' associations and other civic groups, to
offer recreational and educational programs.
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The Recreation Division offers a wide variety of programs and activities at the following
facilities:
Six major parks:
Flamingo Park
North Shore Open Space Park
South Pointe Park
Fairway Park
Normandy Isle Park
North Shore Park
Thirteen neighborhood playgrounds:
La Gorce Park
Crespi Park
Island View Park
Palm Island Park
Fisher Park
Lummus Park
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Pine Tree Park
. Muss Park
Normandy Shores Park
Stillwater Park
Tatum Park
Polo Park
Ocean Beach Park
Two tennis centers:
North Shore Tennis Center
Flamingo Park Tennis Center
Three pools:
Flamingo Park Pool
Normandy Isles Park Pool
Scott Rakow Youth Center Pool
Four community centers:
21st Street Recreation Center
North Shore Activity & Bandshell
North Shore Community Center
Ocean Front Auditorium
One (1) handball/racquetball center and eighteen (18) neighborhood tennis courts
r The Division's facilities' and programs are further enhanced by the Scott Rakow Youth
Center, a multi-purpose facility that houses an ice skating rink, bowling lanes, swimming
pool, gymnasium, game room, and party facilities. Attached is a copy of the Recreation
Division's 2001 Summer Recreation Review that lists the current parks, programs and
facilities available for the use of our residents. .
The Division is comprised of two sections: Neighborhood/Community Recreation
Centers and Major Parks/Athletics. Neighborhood/Community Recreation Centers
include neighborhood parks, community centers and the Scott Rakow Youth Center.
Leisure service professionals conduct pre-school and after school programs, specialty
camps and summer day camps for children of all ages. Children also have the
opportunity to participate in a variety of classes such as cheerleading, swimming, ice
skating, hockey, gymnastics, music and dance. Activities for adults and seniors, offered
at community centers, include bridge, aerobics, yoga, and line dancing. Cultural and
performing arts activities include concerts, dances and intergenerational workshops.
The Major Parks/Athletics section is responsible for conducting citywide athletic leagues
and programs. Youth can participate in a variety of sports including football, soccer,
baseball, softball and basketball. Major parks, such as North Shore and Flamingo
Parks serve as the backdrop for varied sporting and themed events.
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For more than thirty-five years, the Recreation Division has provided therapeutic
recreation for developmentally disabled adults. The Division's
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North Shore / Margaret M. Swett Social Club provides recreation and social activities for ~
persons of all ages with varying disabilities. These include wheelchair basketball and
tennis, adapted aquatics, training for families with autistic children, a Guild for the Blind
and Special Olympics.
The Recreation Division offers holiday and themed events conducted on an annual
basis. Residents and tourists alike can enjoy an Easter Extravaganza, ice skating and
gymnastics shows, the Playground Revue (now in its 58th year), July 4th celebrations,
Trick or Treat Street and the annual Halloween Haunted House.
Duration: The Blue Ribbon Committee shall meet until the required tasks are
completed. This process is anticipated to take several months.
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r- THE GROUP HEALTH INSURANCE TASK FORCE
The Group Health Insurance Task Force was created with the intent purpose of
addressing the City's continuing and growing challenges in the area of Group Health
Insurance. The work of the Task Force includes the examination of benefit levels, plan
design, cost, coverage, and a measure of the impact of any adopted changes to the
affected employee and retiree groups. The end product of the Task Force is intended to
be implementable solutions that fairly and reasonably address our employee needs.
The scope of work is limited to an examination of how the City provides the benefit to its
employees and making recommendations for improvements in either benefit structure or
benefit delivery. The group is tasked with recommending short and long term solutions
that are in the best interest of the City. Hence a primary focus is the .formulation of
solutions that equally address the needs of all employee groups and retirees.
The Task Force is comprised of a cross section of employees and residents that have
experience with health insurance and/or a vested interest in the recommendations of
the group. For example, one of the Co-Chairs, Bruce Davidson, is a retired executive of
Blue Cross/Blue Shield. Other members include representatives of the City's labor
unions, professional employees, a retiree, and members of the Budget Advisory
Committee, the Group Health Insurance Board, and the Health Advisory Committee.
The Task Force started its work in July of 2001 and is expected to complete its
recommendations in January 2002.
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The following is the Charter for the Group Health Insurance Task Force:
On March 2, 2001, Commissioner Simon Cruz wrote a memorandum to City
Manager Jorge M. Gonzalez asking that the establishment of a Citizen/Staff Task
Force on Group Health Insurance be referred to the Finance and Citywide Projects
Committee. The matter was referred to the Finance and Citywide Projects
Committee by the City Commission at their March 14,2001 meeting. The Finance
and Citywide Projects Committee met on March 20, 2001, and approved the
establishment of a Citizen/Staff Task Force on Group Health Insurance. The
Finance and Citywide Projects Committee recommended their approval in a report to
the City Commission on April 18, 2001.
This document serves as the initial Charter for this Task Force.
Purpose:
The purpose ofthe Task Force is to develop a comprehensive
solution that addresses the City's continuing and growing
challenges in the area of group health insurance. This includes the
examination of benefit levels, plan design, cost, coverage, and a
measure of the impact to any adopted changes to the affected
employee and retiree groups.
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Work Product: The Task Force is expected to develop a series of written, viable
alternatives for the design of the City's Group Health Insurance
Program(s) for consideration by the City Manager and the City
Commission. Included with each alternative should be an
explanation of the design, cost, impact to employees and retirees,
advantages, and disadvantages. The Task Force should make and
justify their recommendation of the best available solution.
Recommendations may be split into short-term and long-term
objectives.
Scope of Work: The Task Force is limited to an examination of how Group Health
Insurance is provided and to making recommendations for
improving the provision of Group Health Insurance to all City
employees and retirees at a reasonable cost. The Task Force
should take the perspective that the end goal is intended to be in
the best interest of the City - albeit, providing full attention to the
benefits derived from a workforce that is receiving quality health
insurance. The Task Force should be mindful of the Scope of Work
and make every effort to maintain a focus on this important and
complex issue.
Authoritv:
The Task Force has the authority to collect information needed to
examine the Scope of Work. City Staff members should make a
concerted effort to attend Task Force meetings and to complete
follow-up and related work between meetings as this is a priority of
the City. Department Directors are requested to provide employees
who are Task Force members a reasonable amount of time and
latitude to redirect their .efforts towards the completion of the Scope
of Work.
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The Task Force is an advisory body and does not have the ability to
make binding decisions.
Leaal Mandates: The Task Force must consider and incorporate the legal obligations
contained within the State Statutes, City Charter, City Code,
Collective Bargaining Agreements, Group Insurance Board
regulations, and any other legally binding authority that affects the
City's Group Health Insurance program(s). Alternatives may be
developed and considered for the modification of some or all of the
respective sources of legal requirements, but processes, including
timelines and an estimate of viability should accompany such
alternatives. Task Force representatives from the City's Risk
Management Division will make available copies of the various
legal obligations and will provide the City's interpretation of the -.
obligations.
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Members:
The recommended composition of the Task Force is as follows:
Clifton Leonard, Risk Manager
Mary Greenwood, Labor Relations
Tim Hemstreet, Special Assistant to City Manager
Eric Yuhr, Fire Division Chief
John Toledo, Property Management Assistant Director
FOP Representative
IAFF Representative
GSAF Representative
CWA Representative
AFSME Representative
Jerry (Dee Dee) Weithorn, Budget Advisory Committee
Marc Jacobson, Budget Advisory Committee
Bruce Davidson, Budget Advisory Committee
Buddy Dresner, Group Insurance Board (Retiree)
Roberto Sanchez, Health Care Consultant
Holly Wallack, Health Advisory Committee
Phyllis Miller, Citizen
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The membership of the Task Force represents a cross section of
employees and residents. Although each member could be
construed to represent a particular constituency, it is expected that
each member will act in the best interest of the City. Members are
also charged with keeping their individual constituencies up-to-date
with the activities of the Task Force and are encouraged to pass on
the perspectives of those they represent.
The Task Force Chair will be appointed by the City Manager. Risk
Management will serve as the primary staff agency that will provide
analytical support and other resources for the Task Force. The
Task Force will be free to assign its members to specific duties
consistent with this charter, if needed, and will also be able to
create subcommittees, or other smaller work groups, to examine
information.
Meetinas:
The meetings of the Task Force are expected to be open to the
public and their meeting times and places will be posted at least 48
hours prior to commencement. The Task Force will need to
determine the frequency and length of meetings, as well as the
format and types of information to be discussed at the meetings.
The Task Force will keep records of its meetings which will be open
for public inspection.
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Point of Contact: The Point of Contact with the City Administration for the Task Force
.will be the City Manager. The Task Force Chair is expected to
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Backaround:
update the City Manager at least once per month, and more .-..,
frequently if significant milestones are reached or significant issues
arise that require guidance. The Task Force will meet with the City
Manager to present the final Work Product and recommendations,
although more frequent meetings can be arranged through the
Task Force Chair or at the request of the City Manager.
The City of Miami Beach employs approximately 1,700 employees,
the majority of which live in Miami-Dade and Broward Counties.
The City has approximately 1,300 retired employees, of which
about half live in the South Florida area and the majority of the
other half live in other areas of Florida. There is a small population
of retirees living in other areas of the United States. ,
The City currently contracts with Humana for the Group Managed
Medical Care. The plan. is fully insured and experience rated. The
City has contracted with Humana for the Group Managed Medical
Care since November 1,1987. The current contract is in effect
through September 30.2001.
The City currently offers Managed Care Medical (PPO), Point of
Service (POS), HMO, and Medicare Supplement Plans. The PPO,
POS, and HMO plans are available to all full-time eligible "'"'"
employees; all four plans are available to retirees as per City
Ordinance. City Charter specifies that the City and the employee
will split the cost of insurance evenly, meaning City pays 50% of the
premium and the employee pays 50% of the premium. Currently,
all General Employees, classified and unclassified, are covered by
one of the three Humana plans unless they waive health insurance
altogether.
Since October 1, 1986, approximately 200 employees (all members
of the fire fighters bargaining unit and some unclassified fire
management employees), have had medical insurance coverage
provided by the Florida Fire Fighters Health Insurance Trust Plan.
Since January 1, 1991, approximately 300 employees (all members
of the police officers bargaining unit and some unclassified police
management employees) have had medical insurance coverage
provided by the Miami Beach Fraternal Order of Police Health
Trust. In both situations, the health insurance construct is pursuant
to the respective collective bargaining agreement. The City pays to
the respective health trust 90% of its per employee or family PPO
payment.
The City has experienced considerable increases with its Group .........
Health Insurance rates over the past few years. In response to this
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situation, the City has gone out for Bid and for RFP in an effort to
procure more competitive rates for Group Health Insurance. The
City has been unsuccessful in securing a Group Health InsiJrance
provider that is able to meet the City's needs and cost containment
goals. As a result, the City hired a Broker to assist with plan design
and other activities to identify the best Group Health Insurance
alternatives. .
Duration:
The Task Force is expected to conclude its work within six months
of its inception.
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NIGHTLIFE INDUSTRY TASK FORCE
. On October 24, 2001, the NITE held their first meeting and elected Steve Polisar as the
Chairman of the Task Force. The Committee set forth various issues that should be
addressed by the Task Force and agreed to prioritize those issues before their next
meeting.
Members of the NITE include:
1. Ken Barrilich, Crobar Nightclub
2. Stuart Blumberg, Greater Miami and the Beaches Hotel Association
3. Anita Cachaldora, Tropigala
4. Ian Hendry, Clevelander Hotel
5. Roman Jones, Opium Garden
6. David Kelsey, South Beach Hotel & Restaurant Association
7. Noah Lazes, Level Nightclub
8. Eric Omares, Pearl Restaurant
9. Rodolphe Piper, BillBoard Live - Ocean Drive
10. Steve Polisar, Law Offices of Lubin & Polisar
11. Joanne Rabin, National Hotel
12.Alan Roth, Rumi Restaurant - Uncoln Road
13. Debora Sakin, China Grill
14. Gary Thoulouis, Event Broker
15. Dave Tornek, Touch
16.Michael Tronn, Promoter
17. Orlando Velasquez, Holiday Inn
18. Richard Trainor, TwistlTery Jackowitch, Salvation
On November 13, 2001, the NITE held its second meeting and the City Attorney
provided an overview of the "Government in the Sunshine" Law that would apply to the
Task Force. Based upon that presentation, the task force members moved to disband
the task force as a City task force and reconvened as an independent task force with
continuing support from City staff and City public noticing advertisements.
During the November 13,2001 NITE meeting, several motions were passed including
the following:
1. Motion to disband as a City Task Force was moved by Steve Polisar and seconded
by David Kelsey. All voted in favor with one nay by Stu Blumberg.
Task Force then agreed to re-convene as an independent task force.
2. Motion to continue working with the City of Miami Beach staff by Steve Polisar
seconded by David Kelsey. All voted unanimously.
3. Motion by Stu Blumberg and seconded by Roman Jones to recommend that the City
46
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r Manager extend the deferral of sidewalk cafe fees and occupational licenses to
January 30, 2002.
4. A separate Motion was made that the City amend the City Code to provide for
business fees to continue to be due on September 30, but no late fees or
delinquency penalties apply until after January 31. Motion made by David Kelsey,
amended by Stu Blumberg, and seconded by Roman Jones.
5. Motion to extend the operating hours of clubs to 7:00 a.m. on New Year's Weekend
(December 28,2001 - December 31,2001) by Noah Lazes and seconded by Roman
Jones.
In a separate Economic Stimulus Report in this package, the City Manager has
announced his intent to extend the payment dates for occupational licenses and
sidewalk cafe fees.
As was done in New Years Eve 2000 and Memorial Day Weekend 2001. if the City
Commission is desirous of implementing the extension of club hours for New Year's
weekend, adoption of the attached resolution will be required.
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FIRE STATION #2 REHABILITATION AND BUILDING ADDITION
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The improvements being made to Fire Station No. 2 include full historic renovation of
the existing facility, and an additional facility that will include apparatus bays and living
quarters. STA Architectural Group (STA) is the architect/engineer (AlE) for the project.
The completion of the design phase of the project is scheduled for Spring 2002.
At the October 17, 2001 Commission meeting, the Commission approved an
amendment to the contract with STA in the amount of $117,000. The amendment was
for the addition of an Emergency Operations Center to the Fire Station No.2 project, the
design of a drainage system for both the Fire Station and Public Works Yard facilities,
and the design of a common entrance to both sites.
STA submitted 90% construction drawings for the existing facility and 50% construction
drawings for the new facility to the City at the end of October, which are under review.
The City is still in the process of negotiating a Guaranteed Maximum Price (GMP) with
Jasco Construction Company, Inc. (Jasco), the construction contractor for the project.
The GMP will provide the City with a firm construction cost, leaving Jasco to absorb cost
overruns.
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r- FIRE STATION #4 GENERAL OBLIGATION BOND FUNDED PROJECT
On September 20, 2001, the City Commission directed the Administration to pursue the
option of developing the improvements to Fire Station NO.4 on the north half of the site.
The project's program, as generally outlined by the City Commission consists of the
following components:
. Demolition of the west addition to the original Fire Station.
. Construction of a new Fire Station facility contiguous to existing one.
. Renovation of the existing Fire Station facility, currently proposed for historic site
designation, including general structural upgrades, existing fa9ade renovation,
lobby area and existing stairwell renovation.
. Any additional improvements necessary to render the existing building compliant
with current Codes.
Moreover, due to site constraints, the Police Substation, originally proposed to be
combined with the new Fire Station, would remain at present location. In the interim, a
series of meetings were conducted by the Capital Improvements Projects (CIP) Office
with the participation of relevant Fire Department personnel, representatives from URS,
the project's program manager, and MC Harry and Associates, Inc., the City's
consultant. The goal of those meetings is to reach a consensus relating to the
necessary revision and re-adjustment to the project's scope, in accordance to the
r available budget, the' expressed needs of the Fire Department's personnel, and the
directives outlined by the City Commission on September 20, 2001. At this time, the
Administration is finalizing the second Amendment to MC Harry and Associates'
Professional Services Agreement. Upon form approval by the City Attorney's Office and
execution of such Amendment by the Mayor and City Clerk, a notice will be issued to
MC Harry and Associates, Inc., to proceed with the schematic and design development
of the project.
Other proiect milestones:
. October 9, 2001: The Historic Preservation Board granted a continuance to the
December 11, 2001 meeting.
. October 10, 2001:A meeting with MC Harry and Associates and URS to review
and adjust the project's scope according to City Commission's directives for the
project was held.
. November 1,2001: CIP, Fire Department, and URS relevant staff met to confirm
the revised project's program and approve the preliminary space analysis
developed by the City consultant, which reflects the new directive for the project.
In the interim, the Administration will continue informing the Mayor and City Commission
of all the important events having an impact on the development of the Project.
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