96-21939 RESO
RESOLUTION NO.
96-21939
A RESOLUTION OF THE MAYOR AND CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY
OF MIAMI BEACH, FLORIDA, ADOPTING THE CITY OF MIAMI BEACH
LOCAL HOUSING INCENTIVES PLAN FOR TRANSMITTAL TO THE
STATE OF FLORIDA HOUSING FINANCE AGENCY.
WHEREAS, the City of Miami Beach has identified the need for the rehabilitation of its existing
housing stock; and
WHEREAS, the City desires to provide home-ownership opportunities to its residents; and
WHEREAS, in 1992, the William E. Sadowski Affordable Housing Act established the State
Housing Initiatives Partnership (SHIP) Program, administered by the Florida Housing Finance
Agency (FHFA). Program funds derive from set-aside allocations from documentary stamp levies
on real estate transactions and the City of Miami Beach was allocated $336,366 in SHIP for
1995/96, with a similar amount estimated for FY 96-97; and
WHEREAS, on April 12, 1995, the Mayor and City Commission established the Affordable
Housing Advisory Committee (SHIP Committee) as a one-year "sunset" committee through
Ordinance No. 95-2989 and Resolution No. 95-21567; and
WHEREAS, the Committee's main function was to produce a Local Housing Incentives Plan
for consideration by the City within twelve (12) months of passage of the Ordinance; and
WHEREAS, the Affordable Housing Advisory Committee held public meetings during March
1996 and approved the attached recommended Local Housing Incentives Plan during an
advertised public hearing held on March 21, 1996; and
WHEREAS, meetings of the Committee were public meetings where citizen input and
involvement was solicited and considered.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED BY THE MAYOR AND CITY COMMISSION OF THE
CITY OF MIAMI BEACH, FLORIDA, that the attached City of Miami Beach Local Housing
Incentives Plan be adopted, as submitted, for transmittal to the State of Florida Housing Finance
Agency.
Passed and adopted this 2nd day of April, 1996.
,') '\
1/ Ii
( ; .2.'
I ~. tL
' I
~/ 1./../
J Mayor
Attest:
B 0 kLt&- PtWk
~ ITY C~RK - Ro6e~,... PAIz..~He~
FORM APPRO'. ' )
LEGAL DE1:-!'
By 1J( I!~
Date ~2.) 2€.
CITY OF
MIAMI BEACH
CITY HALL 1700 CONVENTION CENTER DRIVE MIAMI BEACH FLORIDA 33139
COMMISSION MEMORANDUM NO. J B'7 -11 ~
TO:
Mayor Seymour Gelber and
Members of the City Commission
DATE:
April 2, 1996
FROM: Jose Garcia-Pedrosa
City Manager
SUBJECT: A RESOLUTION THE MAYOR AND CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF
MIAMI BEACH, F ORIDA, ADOPTING THE CITY OF MIAMI BEACH LOCAL
HOUSING INCENTIVES PLAN FOR TRANSMITTAL TO THE STATE OF
FLORIDA HOUSING FINANCE AGENCY.
ADMINISTRATION RECOMMENDATION:
That the Mayor and City Commission adopt the City of Miami Beach Local Housing Incentives Plan
for transmittal to the State of Florida Housing Finance Agency.
BACKGROUND:
In 1992, the William E. Sadowski Affordable Housing Act established the State Housing Initiatives
Partnership (SHIP) Program, which is administered by the Florida Housing Finance Agency
(FHFA). Program funds derive from set-aside allocations from documentary stamp levies on real
estate transactions. The City of Miami Beach was allocated $336,366 in SHIP for 1995/96, with
a similar amount estimated for FY 96-97.
As described in the SHIP Program Plan, adopted by the City Commission on May 3, 1995, the FY
1995/96 SHIP funds will be utilized to create scattered-site home-ownership opportunities through
the rehabilitation ofthe City's existing housing stock. The SHIP Program Plan contemplates issuing
a competitive Notice of Funds Availability (NOFA)/Request for Proposal (RFP) from not-for-profit,
public/quasi-public housing developers, and/or private developers to provide the renovation of
buildings suitable for home-ownership. The City's Loan Review Committee (LRC) will review all
proposals submitted, and will make recommendations to the Mayor and City Commission for award
of SHIP Program Funds.
The Mayor and City Commission established the Affordable Housing Advisory Committee (SHIP
Committee) as a nine member, one-year "sunset" committee and finalized the appointments in
February of 1996. The Committee's main function was to produce a Local Housing Incentives Plan
for consideration by the City.
ANAL YSIS
The Affordable Housing Advisory Committee held three public meetings and approved the
AGENDAITEM~
DATE~
COMMISSION MEMORANDUM
APRIL 2, 1996
page 2
recommended Local Housing Incentives Plan during a Public Hearing held on March 21, 1996.
Meetings of the Committee were public meetings where citizen input and involvement was solicited
and considered. Pursuant to State rules, the Committee made recommendations on housing
incentives in the following areas:
*
The definition of affordable housing.
Expedited processing of permits issued by the City of Miami Beach.
Modification of impact-fee requirements, including reduction or waiver of fees and
alternative methods of fee payment.
Allowance of increased density levels.
Reservation of infrastructure capacity for housing.
Transfer of development rights as a financing mechanism for housing.
Reduction of parking and setback requirements.
Allowance of zero lot-line configurations.
Modification of street requirements.
Establishment of a process by which the City considers, before adoption, the impact of
proposed policies, procedures, ordinances, regulations, or plan provisions have upon the
cost of housing.
Preparation of a printed inventory of locally owned lands.
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
The Local Incentives Plan adopted by the Committee is attached for yourreview and approval.
Although the Plan contains eleven (11) elements, at a minimum, the fonowing must be adopted
by the Mayor and City Commission before May 3rd, when the SHIP Plan is due.
*
A schedule for implementation of expedited permit processing for housing projects, and
A process for review of City policies, ordinances, regulations, and incentive plan provisions
that significantly impact the cost of housing prior to their adoption.
*
The March 21st Public Hearing was noticed, yet no one other than the Committee attended.
Failure of the City Commission to adopt either the Local Incentive Plan or the above two
requirements before May 3rd, will result in the loss of the State Grant totaling $336,366.
CONCLUSION:
The Administration recommends that the Mayor and City Commission approve the attached
Resolution adopting the City of Miami Beach Local Housing Incentives Plan for transmittal to the
State of Florida Housing Finance Agency.
JGP/~nrg
CITY OF MIAMI BEACH, FLORIDA
LOCAL HOUSING INCENTIVES PLAN
ADOPTED BY THE MAYOR AND CITY COMMISSION
ON APRIL 2, 1996
Contact Person:
Shirley Taylor-Prakelt, Director
Housing and Community Development
1700 Convention Center Drive
Miami Beach, FL 33139
(305) 673-7260
CITY OF MIAMI BEACH
LOCAL HOUSING INCENTIVES PLAN
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
I. Table of Contents
II.
Introduction
ii
III. Committee Recommendations
IV.
A.
Definition of Affordable Housing
1
2-3
B.
Expedited Permitting Process
C.
Modification of Impact Fee Requirements
4-5
D.
Allowance of Increased Density Levels
6
E.
Reservation of Infrastructure Capacity
7
F.
Transfer of Development Rights
8
G.
9-11
Reduction of Parking and Setback Requirements
H.
Allowance of Zero-lot-Line Configurations
12
I.
J.
Modifications of Sidewalk and Street Requirements
13
Review Process for City Procedures and Policies
that impact the cost of Housing
14-15
K.
Printed Inventory of Locally-owned lands
16
Chairman Approval of Recommendations
17
V. Certification to Florida Housing Finance Agency
Page i
City of Miami Beach Local Housing Incentives Plan
INTRODUCTION
The Mayor and City Commission of the City of Miami Beach, Florida, adopted this Affordable
Housing Incentives Plan on Apri 2,1996, in compliance with City of Miami Beach Ordinance No. 95-
2989, City of Miami Beach Resolution No. 95-21567, Chapter 91-37, Florida Administrative Code, and
section 420.9076, Florida Statutes, based on recommendations made by the Affordable Housing
Advisory Committee.
The Affordable Housing Advisory Committee held public meetings to review the established policies
and procedures, ordinances, regulations, and adopted local Comprehensive Plan and made
recommendations on specific initiatives to encourage or facilitate affordable housing while protecting
the ability of the property to appreciate in value. The Committee reviewed and made
recommendations in the following areas:
1. The affordable housing definition in the appointing resolution;
2. The expedited processing of permits for affordable housing projects;
3. The modification of impact fee requirements, including reduction or waiver of fees
and alternative methods of fee payment;
4. The allowance of increased density levels;
5. The reservation of infrastructure capacity for housing for very low-income and low-
income persons;
6. The transfer of development rights as a financing mechanism for housing for very
low-income ~nd low-income persons;
7. The reduction of parking and setback requirements;
8. The allowance of zero-lot-line configurations;
9. The modifications of sidewalk and street requirements;
10. The establishment of a process by which the City considers, before adoption,
procedures and policies that have a significant impact on the cost of housing; and
11. Preparation of a printed inventory of locally-owned public lands.
City of Miami Beach Local Housing Incentives Plan
Page ii
A. Review of the affordable housing definition in the appointing resolution. Review mandated
by section 420.907(4)(a), Florida Statutes.
(1) Incentive
The Affordable Housing definition in the appointing resolution.
(2) Current status
The City of Miami Beach defined the term "Affordable Housing" in City of Miami
Beach Ordinance No. 95-2989 and Resolution No. 95-21567 as follows: "Housing
where the occupants pay no more than thirty (30) percent of gross income for
housing costs, including utility costs."
(3) Explanation of existing regulation regarding this incentive
This definition is consistent with the definition of "Affordable Housing" as contained
in the Housing Element of the City's Comprehensive Plan, the City's Consolidated
Plan, and with the statutory definition provided in the State Housing Initiatives
Partnership Act.
(4) Advantages/disadvantages of changing/adopting this incentive
By adopting a standard definition to be applied City-wide, the City of Miami Beach
implements consistent regulation.
The Committee evaluated other definitions which only address the percent of a
households income which goes towards rent/utilities or mortgage PITI, as opposed
to addressing the total adjusted household income. The Committee felt that families
whose income exceeds 80% of the median, should not be a priority for assistance.
The Committee acknowledges that other programs such as the Dade County Surtax
Scattered-site Home-ownership program, can serve families with incomes of up to
120% of the median.
(5) Impacts on Public Health, Safety or Welfare
No negative impacts on the public health, safety, or welfare should occur as a result
of this recommendation.
(6) Housing cost reduction anticipated from implementing this recommendation
No cost reductions are anticipated from implementation of this recommendation.
(7) Recommendation of advisory committee
That the definition of Affordable Housing be "housing available to households who
earn up to 80% of the area median income, adjusted annually by family size, of which
the househ91d pays no more than 35% for homeownership units which includes
mortgage PITI, and condominium maintenance fees, or 30% for rental units excluding
utilities"; when in conflict with other Federal, County and State programs, the
definition of affordable housing in those definitions will take precedence.
(8) Recommended schedule for implementation
Upon approval of the Housing Incentives Plan by the City Commission.
City of Miami Beach Local Housing Incentives Plan
Page 1
B. Review and consideration of expedited processing of permits for housing projects as
mandated by section 420.9076(4)(b), Florida Statutes.
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
(5)
(6)
(7)
Incentive
The expedited processing of permits for housing projects.
Current status
The City of Miami Beach currently does not distinguish between affordable housing
and other types of residential development projects in its permitting process. The
property owner must apply for building permits to construct the project. The
permitting process is split between different departments, e.g. the Building
Department, the Planning, Design and Historic Preservation Division and the Code
Enforcement Division. Applications are also reviewed through the Design Review
process. Zoning variances are processed through the Zoning Board. The City's
affordable housing projects are currently funded through federal funds and are
coordinated through the Housing & Community Development Office.
Explanation of existing regulation regarding this incentive
The current permitting process is designed to be completed usually within three days
at the Building Department, and then an additional three to seven days at the
Planning, Design and Historic Preservation Division. Therefore, the average
permitting time is approximately 10 days. The City of Miami Beach's permitting
process compares favorably with that of other cities throughout the county and its
time-frames do not constitute an undue burden on developers.
Advantages/disadvantages of changing/adopting this incentive
The current permitting system in the City of Miami Beach is fairly streamlined;
however, a priority system would benefit developers of affordable housing. Certain
development costs, such as interest, overhead, insurance, security, and maintenance
accrue every day of a project's life. Time savings translate into cost savings.
Disadvantages are that such a priority system could not guarantee expedited
permitting in the case of projects requiring complex review or variances. Pre-design
meetings with City staff would allow developers to present and discuss informally
their development plans before formal submissions are prepared. This can prevent
delays and expensive revisions.
Impacts on Public Health, Safety or Welfare
No negative 'impacts on the public health, safety, or welfare should occur as a result
of this recommendation.
Housing cost reduction anticipated from implementing this recommendation
Even though actual cost reductions are difficult to quantify, housing cost reductions
resulting from implementation of the proposed expedited permitting process may vary
from project to project. In terms of time reductions, it is expected that the
recommended improvements will reduce the permitting time element involved in
affordable housing projects by up to 50%.
Recommendation of advisory committee
That the City of Miami Beach give priority in scheduling a Pre-Design Conference
with all relevant agencies including but not limited to: Fire, Planning & Zoning,
Page 2
City of Miami Beach Local Housing Incentives Plan
Building, Historic Preservation, Public Works, Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA),
and Housing and Community Development, for designated "Affordable Housing"
projects; and, when the plans are ready for permitting, that first priority will be given
to them with the goal of reducing the process time by 50%; further, that the City
prepare a brochure that advises applicants of the application process; and, the
Housing and Community Development Director will act as "liaison" to coordinate and
expedite the application with all relevant agencies.
(8) Recommended schedule for implementation
The Housing and Community Development and Planning and Zoning Offices will,
within nine months of approval of the Housing Incentives Plan by the City
Commission, develop legislation to expand the permitting process, as proposed.
City of Miami Beach Local Housing Incentives Plan
Page 3
C. Modification of impact fee requirements, including reduction or waiver of fees and altemative
methods of fee payment. Review mandated by section 420.9076(4)(b), Florida Statutes.
(1) Incentive
Waiver of building permit impact fees and alternative methods of fee payment for
affordable housing projects.
(2) Current status
The City of Miami Beach currently charges impact fees for the following services:
Water and Sewer, Parking, Streets and Sidewalks, and Building Permits.
(3) Explanation of existing regulation regarding this incentive
Impact fees are fees assessed against new developments to fund the cost of capital
improvements triggered by growth. The assessment of these fees is a way for the
City to raise money without raising taxes. Revenue obtained from these fees, frees
up the City's tax revenue and results in more tax monies available to pay for other
City services.
(4) Advantages/disadvantages of changing/adopting this incentive
The exemption from payment of impact fees for certain segments of affordable
housing has a direct benefit and constitutes an incentive for new development. The
use of a sliding scale when calculating the percentage of reduction of impact fees
serves as an additional incentive for longer-term affordability vs. short term
affordability. There are no disadvantages for those properties that benefit from the
exemption, however, revenue shortfalls resulting from the waiver of fees would
impact other system users, whose assessments could be higher because of these
shortfalls. Another advantage is that the value of local fees and other charges
normally imposed on projects, if waived, forgiven or deferred, count as part of the
required match for certain federal housing program grants received by the City.
(5) Impacts on Public Health, Safety or Welfare
The loss of revenues resulting from the impact fee waivers could have a detrimental
impact on the quality and level of service provided by the City and potentially have
an adverse effect on the public health, safety, or welfare.
(6) Housing cost reduction anticipated from implementing this recommendation
The housing cost reduction for affordable housing associated with the exemption
from certain fees will vary for projects from 3 to 15 years is 100% of the fee for
projects with a period of affordability of 15 years or more, depending on a pro-rata
percentage .of units, decreasing to projects whose period of affordability exceeds
three years, and therefore varies from project to project.
(7) Recommendation of advisory committee
That, for affordable housing initiatives whose period of affordability exceeds three
years e.g. the HOME Program, the City waive building permit fees based on the pro-
rata percentage of units in the building and the period of affordability of up to 15
years which equates to a 100% waiver.
(8) Recommended schedule for implementation
The Housing and Community Development and Planning, Design and Historic
Page 4
City of Miami Beach Local Housing Incentives Plan
Preservation Offices will, within nine months of approval of the Housing Incentives
Plan by the City Commission, develop legislation to modify the fee structure, as
proposed.
Page 5
City of Miami Beach Local Housing Incentives Plan
D. Allowance of increased density levels. Review mandated by section 420.9076(4)(b), Florida
Statutes.
(1) Incentive
Allowance of increased density levels.
(2) Current status
The City of Miami Beach is almost 100% developed. In keeping with its current
development patterns, there is virtually no room for density intensification without
extensive urban renewal. Any intensification in the density levels would also require
that concurrency-driven levels of service standards be maintained.
(3) Explanation of existing regulation regarding this incentive
Existing density regulations are tightly integrated with concurrency and maintenance
of adequate levels of service standards. In theory, increased density permits more
houses or apartments to be built within developments and can potentially affect
affordable housing by maximizing land resources and minimizing per-unit
development costs. As density increases, per unit land costs decrease
proportionately. Higher densities, as a general rule, result on more effective
utilization of the land, lower infrastructure costs, and higher property tax return than
lower density land.
(4) Advantages/disadvantages of changing/adopting this incentive
Given the City's desire to maintain its current density levels, the fact that the City is
a "coastal high hazard area", the City's desire to promote the renovation of its
existing housing stock for affordable housing through rehabilitation, and the high
costs associated with urban renewal, there are no advantages to increased density
levels.
(5) Impacts on Public Health, Safety or Welfare
The Committee is not recommending any changes or modifications on existing
density levels, therefore, no negative impacts on the public health, safety, or welfare
should occur as a result of this recommendation.
(6) Housing cost reduction anticipated from implementing this recommendation
No cost reductions are anticipated from the implementation of the recommendation
since the density levels will continue to function as they presently operate.
(7) Recommendation of advisory committee
That due to the fact that Miami Beach is a "coastal high hazard area," and
recognizing that existing densities are high, the committee does not recommend any
increased density for the City of Miami Beach.
(8) Recommended schedule for implementation
No changes are recommended.
City of Miami Beach Local Housing Incentives Plan
Page 6
E. Reservation of infrastructure capacity for housing. Review mandated by section 420.9076
(4) (b), Florida Statutes.
(1) Incentive
Reservation of infrastructure capacity for housing.
(2) Current status
Currently, the City does not provide for an incentive or capacity reservation set-aside
for housing for very low- and low-income persons.
(3) Explanation of existing regulation regarding this incentive
Infrastructure capacity reservation is directly related to the state requirements that
the City maintain a "concurrency management" system. The Growth Management
Act of 1985 requires local governments to ensure that public facilities and services
that are necessary to ensure that public facilities and services that are necessary to
support development be "concurrent" with the impacts of development. This means
that all new developments must be located where existing services are available or
where there are plans and funds to provide these services.
(4) Advantages/disadvantages of changing/adopting this incentive
The City of Miami Beach has experienced unprecedented growth during the last few
decades. The reservation of infrastructure capacity means that, in the future, should
the City get close to 100% of its infrastructure capacity, there would be preference
given to affordable housing projects when assigning the remaining capacity.
(5) Impacts on Public Health, Safety or Welfare
No negative impacts on the public health, safety, or welfare should occur as a result
of this recommendation.
(6) Housing cost reduction anticipated from implementing this recommendation
The housing cost reduction anticipated from this recommendation is not quantifiable
at this time.
(7) Recommendation of advisory committee
That as a recommendation, in the future, should the City approach 100% of its
infrastructure capacity, that the City reserve 2% of City-wide "infrastructure capacity"
for affordable housing which meets the new definition of affordable housing.
(8) Recommended schedule for implementation
Upon approval of the Housing Incentives Plan by the City Commission.
City of Miami Beach Local Housing Incentives Plan
Page 7
F. Transfer of development rights as a financing mechanism for housing. Review mandated
by section 420.9076(4)(b), Florida Statutes.
(1) Incentive
Transfer of development rights as a financing mechanism for housing.
(2) Current status
Currently, in the City's Zoning Ordinance Development Rights (Unused Floor Area)
shall only be transferred from properties in designated transfer districts to properties
in designated receiving districts. Specific existing legislation regarding the transfer
of development rights does not distinguish between affordable housing and other
projects.
(3) Explanation of existing regulation regarding this incentive
The concept of transfer of development rights stems from the idea that property
ownership entails a number of rights. To obtain a benefit from these property rights,
a mechanism must be in place which allows for the transfer of rights from one
property to another within a specified geographic area. The City of Miami Beach has
regulations in place that make it possible for a property owner to transfer
development rights from one property to another, subject to limitations and existing
regulations.
(4) Advantages/disadvantages of changing/adopting this incentive
In some cases, development rights have been purchased by developers to increase
densities, floor space allowances, and thus reduce the per-unit costs of
developments. Conversely, developers may sell excess development potential and
apply the revenues to the development budget, reducing the per-unit costs of
developments. Disadvantages to these transfers include that the program is difficult
to administe'r and would require constant monitoring. Current legislation regarding
transfer of development rights has seldom been used to the advantage or
disadvantage of developers.
(5) Impacts on Public Health, Safety or Welfare
The Committee is not recommending any changes or modifications on existing
density levels, therefore, no negative impacts on the public health, safety, or welfare
should occur as a result of this recommendation.
(6) Housing cost reduction anticipated from implementing this recommendation
No potential housing cost reductions are anticipated from implementing this
recommendation.
(7) Recommendation of advisory committee
That the ''Transfer of Development Rights" provisions as they now exist in the current
zoning ordinance, may be used as an incentive for affordable housing.
(8) Recommended schedule for implementation
Upon approval of the Housing Incentives Plan by the City Commission.
City of Miami Beach Local Housing Incentives Plan
Page 8
G.
Reduction of parking and setback requirements.
420.9076(4)(b), Florida Statutes.
Review mandated by section
(1) Incentive
Reduction of parking and setback requirements.
(2) Current status
Parlclng Requirements
Off-street parking requirements require that, when any building or structure is erected
or altered, accessory Off-street parking spaces for residential units be provided as
follows:
Type of Building/Structure Spaces Per
Apartment Building 1.5 Unit
Hotel 1 Unit
Single-Family detached dwelling 2 Unit
Townhouse 2 Unit
1 guest 5 Units
space
There are no Off-street parking requirements for Main or Accessory Uses associated
with existing Buildings which are located within the Miami Beach Architectural District
or Local Historic District. (This provision does not apply to renovations and new
additions to existing Buildings which create or add floor area and to new construction
which has parking requirements.)
Setback Requirements
Front Side, Interior Side, Facing a Street Rear
At Grade 20' 5' or 5% of Lot width 5' or 5% of Lot Width 5' (Non-oceanfront Lots)
(Parking Lot (whichever is greater) (whichever is greater) 50' from Bulkhead Line
on the same (Oceanfront Lots)
Lot.)
Subterranea 20' 5' or 5% of Lot width 5' or 5% of Lot width 0' (Non-oceanfront Lots)
n (whichever is greater) (whichever is greater) 50' from Bulkhead Line
0' if Lot width is 50' or (Oceanfront Lots)
less
Pedestal 20' Sum of the Side yards Sum ofthe Side yards 10% of Lot depth (Non-
shall equal 16% of Lot shall equal 16% of Lot oceanfront Lots)
width. Min.- 7.5' or 8% width. Min.- 7.5' or 20% of Lot Depth, 50' from
of Lot width, 8% of Lot width, Bulkhead Line (Oceanfront
whichever is greater. whichever is greater. Lots) whichever is greater.
City of Miami Beach Local Housing Incentives Plan
Page 9
Front Side, Interior Side, Facing a Street Rear
Tower 20'+1' for every Required Pedestal Sum of the Side 15% of Lot Depth (Non-
l' increase in setback plus .10 of Yards shall equal 16% oceanfront Lots)
height above 50' the height of the of the Lot width. Min- 25% of Lot Depth, 75'
to a maximum of Tower portion of the 7.5% or 8% of Lot minimum from Bulkhead
50', then shall building. Total Width, whichever is Line (Oceanfront Lots)
remain constant. required setback shall greater. whichever is greater.
not exceed 50'.
(3) Explanation of existing regulation regarding this incentive
Parking requirements should reflect the anticipated demands of the residents who
will live in the proposed development with respect to the average number of vehicles
per dwelling unit. Currently, the parking requirement may be satisfied by entering
into a Development Agreement with the City for said parking through the construction
of facilities over City-owned properties (air rights) or by providing for Off-site Parking
facilities in accordance with the ordinance. When there is inadequate area available
on Site, or at a location within 1200 feet of the Site, for providing some or all of the
parking spaces required by the Ordinance, the parking requirement may be fulfilled
by payment of an impact fee instead. The substitution of this fee shall not result in
the construction of a new residential Development which provides less than 1 parking
space per unit. The impact fee is satisfied through a one-time payment at the time
of issuance of a Building Permit of up to $10,000 per space not provided.
For projects proposing to renovate existing structures, a payment plan may be
elected in which the first impact fee payment is paid prior to the issuance of a
Building Permit, the second payment is due June 1 st following the issuance of the
Occupational License or Certificate of Use, whichever is earlier, and the remaining
amount is paid annually as long as the Use exists. Existing structures also have the
opportunity for a one time redemption payment which may be made at any time. It
is anticipated that in the near future, provisions regarding the payment of an impact
fee in lieu of parking spaces will be removed from the Zoning Ordinance.
(4) Advantages/disadvantages of changing/adopting this incentive
Relaxation of parking impact fees for certain segments of affordable housing has a
direct benefit and constitutes an incentive for new development. The reduction of
parking and building setback requirements is a technique utilized to reduce
construction costs for affordable housing projects. The reduction of setback
requirements and parking standards, however, in a City which faces the overcrowded
and density problems of a developed urban community cannot be ignored in favor of
additional development. It would be counterproductive and undesirable to reduce
parking standards and setback requirements based on existing conditions within the
City. An additional advantage is that the value of local fees and other charges
normally imposed on projects, if waived, forgiven or deferred, count as part of the
required match for certain federal housing program grants received by the City.
(5) Impacts on Public Health, Safety or Welfare
No negative impacts on the public health, safety, or welfare should occur as a result
of this recommendation.
City of Miami Beach Local Housing Incentives Plan
Page 10
(6) Housing cost reduction anticipated from implementing this recommendation
The housing cost reduction for affordable housing associated with deferring the
payment of the parking impact fee is 100% of the fee for projects with a period of
affordabilityof 15 years or more, depending on a pro-rata percentage of units, and
decreasing to projects whose period of affordability exceeds three years. Therefore,
said reduction varies from project to project.
(7) Recommendation of advisory committee
To defer "Parking Impact Fee" payments on affordable housing units over a 17 year
period. New construction of affordable housing units must provide one parking space
per unit on site and may pay a parking impact fee over a 17 year period for the other
.5 space per affordable housing unit in each building, for those projects whose period
of affordability exceeds three years (e.g. the HOME Program); in the event that the
parking impact fee program is terminated for new construction, the provisions of the
parking impact fee program will remain in place for the affordable housing units; there
shall be no change to the setback and height requirements.
(8) Recommended schedule for implementation
Upon approval of the Housing Incentives Plan by the City Commission.
City of Miami Beach Local Housing Incentives Plan
Page 11
H. Allowance of zero-lot-line configurations. Review mandated by section 420.9076(4)(b),
Florida Statutes.
(1) Incentive
Allowance of zero-lot-line configurations.
(2) Current status
The City does not currently allow zero-lot-line development.
(3) Explanation of existing regulation regarding this incentive
Zero-lot-line housing configurations are used in many instances to place a normal-
sized housing unit on a small or undersized lot, thus making the most out of a small
yard by combining both side yards into one. This type of development regulation is
usually applied to large tracts of vacant land proposed to be developed as detached
dwelling units. The City of Miami Beach is almost 100% developed. There are no
practical sites available to utilize zero-lot-line configurations.
(4) Advantages/disadvantages of changing/adopting this incentive
Even though in other communities the allowance of zero lot line configurations has
decreased the cost of housing, these configurations are not appropriate in Miami
Beach, which already has significant Multi-family Zoning.
(5) Impacts on Public Health, Safety or Welfare
No negative impacts on the public health, safety, or welfare should occur as a result
of this recommendation.
(6) Housing cost reduction anticipated from implementing this recommendation
No housing cost reduction is anticipated from implementation of this
recommendation.
(7) Recommendation of advisory committee
That because the City of Miami Beach has so many areas zoned as Multi-Family to
accommodate affordable housing, in addition to the fact that there are no large tracts
of available land, that there be no zero-lot-Iine-configurations as an incentive to
affordable housing.
(8) Recommended schedule for implementation
Upon approval of the Housing Incentives Plan by the City Commission.
City of Miami Beach Local Housing Incentives Plan
Page 12
I. Modifications of sidewalk and street requirements. Review mandated by section
420.9076(4)(b), Florida Statutes.
(1) Incentive
Modification of sidewalk and street requirements.
(2) Current status
The City of Miami Beach follows the guidelines and standards established by
Metropolitan Dade County and the City's Code. The City's right-of-way system is
nearly 100% developed.
(3) Explanation of existing regulation regarding this incentive
The City of Miami Beach is a highly developed community within a densely-populated
urban settina and has the attendant traffic congestion problems. The City usually
requires that a developer repair and/or replace the sidewalk, curb and gutter for
projects associated with new construction or rehabilitation.
(4) Advantages/disadvantages of changing/adopting this incentive
Relaxation of the requirement to construct new sidewalks and curbing, other than
that which is damaged prior to, or during the construction process, has a direct
financial benefit and constitutes an incentive for new development.
The City's General Fund budget did not contemplate funds for the construction of
street and sidewalks for affordable housing initiatives, therefore funds are not
budgeted. I
(5) Impacts on Public Health, Safety or Welfare
No negative impacts on the public health, safety, or welfare should occur as a result
of this recommendation.
(6) Housing cost reduction anticipated from implementing this recommendation
The housing cost reduction anticipated from implementation of this recommendations
will vary from project to project.
(7) Recommendation of advisory committee
That the City waive the requirements to replace and/or repair new sidewalks and
curbing, other than that portion which is damaged prior to, or during, the construction
process on affordable housing projects. No other changes are proposed.
(8) Recommended schedule for implementation
Upon approval of the Housing Incentives Plan by the City Commission.
City of Miami Beach Local Housing Incentives Plan
Page 13
J. Establishment of a process by which the City considers, before adoption, procedures and
policies that have a significant impact on the cost of housing. Review mandated by section
420.9076(4)(b), Florida Statutes.
(1) Incentive
Process by which the City considers, before adoption, procedures and policies that
have a significant impact on the cost of housing.
(2) Current status
Currently, the City has a review process in place that includes input from the
Planning & Zoning, Public Works, and Building Department, as well as the Design
Preservation Board, the Planning Board, and others. The City's Housing and
Community Development Office, however, is not included.
(3) Explanation of existing regulation regarding this incentive
Site plan review is a costly and time consuming process which requires not only
review and recommendations by City staff, but a review by the Planning Board and
approval of the project by the City Commission.
(4) Advantages/disadvantages of changing/adopting this incentive
The intent of the recommendation is to formalize the participation of the Housing and
Community Development Division in the review of proposed ordinances, policies and
procedures, and regulations. The advantage is that the impact on affordable housing
that a proposed plat or variance may have will be addressed and specific
recommendations will be considered by the governing body prior to adoption. The
disadvantage is the creation of an additional review/comment point on legislation
which mayor may not be relevant to housing.
(5) Impacts on Public Health, Safety or Welfare
No negative impacts on the public health, safety, or welfare should occur as a result
of this recommendation.
(6) Housing cost reduction anticipated from implementing this recommendation
No specific cost reduction can be associated with the implementation of this
recommendation since future cost savings cannot be estimated at this time.
(7) Recommendation of advisory committee
That prior to adoption of any proposed policy, procedure, Ordinance, Development
Plan regulation or Comprehensive Plan amendment that might impact housing, the
City will evaluate the potential effect and cost on affordable housing; all such items
will be sent to the City's Housing and Community Development Office for review and
analysis to determine if the effect is "significant"; the H & CD Director may send such
legislation to applicable Boards and Committees for review, including but not limited
to the Community Development Advisory Committee (CDAC), the Loan Review
Committee (LRC) and the Miami Beach Housing Authority (MBHA); the resulting
analysis shall be provided directly to the original sponsor of the policy, procedure,
Ordinance or Comprehensive Plan amendment and the Miami Beach City
Commission.
City of Miami Beach Local Housing Incentives Plan
Page 14
(8) Recommended schedule for implementation
Upon approval of the Housing Incentives Plan by the City Commission.
City of Miami Beach Local Housing Incentives Plan
Page 15
K. Preparation of a printed inventory of locally owned public lands. Review mandated by
section 420.9076(4)(b), Florida Statutes.
(1) Incentive
Preparation of a printed inventory of locally-owned public lands suitable for affordable
housing.
(2) Current status
The City has previously prepared a formal inventory of all locally-owned public lands.
Said inventory includes land suitable for affordable housing, even though it does not
specifically identify them as such.
(3) Explanation of existing regulation regarding this incentive
The maintenance of a current inventory of locally-owned public lands is necessary
to provide developers with information regarding land available for development.
(4) Advantages/disadvantages of changing/adopting this incentive
The inclusion of recently acquired locally-owned public land suitable for affordable
housing in said existing inventory will represent an incentive for the development of
affordable housing locally.
(5) Impacts on Public Health, Safety or Welfare
No negative impacts on the public health, safety, or welfare should occur as a result
of this recommendation.
(6) Housing co~t reduction anticipated from implementing this recommendation
No specific cost saving can be directly attributed to the implementation of this
recommendation.
(7) Recommendation of advisory committee
That the City continue to maintain the Inventory of City-Owned Land and shall make
such document available for inspection by the public at City Hall. Additionally, the
City shall amend the Inventory to reflect the seven (7) parcels that the MBHA
received as a result of the Portofino Development Agreement, as sites suitable for
affordable housing initiatives.
(8) Recommended schedule for implementation
Upon approval of the Housing Incentives Plan by the City Commission.
City of Miami Beach Local Housing Incentives Plan
Page 16
The foregoing recommendations adopted by the City of Miami Beach Affordable Housing Advisory
Committee are being submitted herewith for approval to the City Commission of the City of Miami
Beach, Florida on this 21 st day of March of 1996.
obert Saland, Chairman
Page 17
City of Miami Beach Local Housing Incentives Plan