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Meeting Minutes 9-12-23 1700 Convention Center Drive Miami Beach, FL 33139 www.miamibeachfl.gov/northbeachcra MEETING MINUTES NORTH BEACH COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY ADVISORY COMMITTEE Tuesday, September 12, 2023 – 4:30 pm Karnitas 71, 954 Normandy Drive Members in Attendance: Chair Jose Smith, Vice Chair Betsy Perez, Ronnie Issenberg, Romina Orozco-Encio, Elizabeth Latone, and David Sexton Members Absent: Manning Salazar 1. Welcome & Attendance At 4:42 p.m., Chair Jose Smith opened the meeting and greeted the attendees. Chair Smith welcomed Committee Member Elizabeth Latone to her first in-person meeting of the Committee. 2. Approval of July 11, 2023 Meeting Minutes Motion: to approve the Committee’s July 11, 2023 meeting minutes. Made by: David Sexton Seconded by: Vice Chair Betsy Perez Old Business 3. FY 2024 Budget Allocations & Priorities At 4:46 p.m., Rickelle Williams, Assistant City Manager, provided an update on the North Beach CRA's proposed budgetary priorities for Fiscal Year (“FY”) 2024. First Reading of the Proposed Operating Budget for the North Beach CRA for FY 2024 (the “FY 2024 Budget”) is scheduled for the September 13, 2023 City Commission meeting, with formal adoption upon Second Reading, anticipated at the September 27, 2023 City Commission/ Special Budget Related meeting. (Note: The FY 2024 Budget was adopted on September 27, 2023 pursuant to NBCRA Resolution No. 012-2023 and City Commission Resolution No. 2023-32789). In terms of overall budget growth, the FY 2023 Adopted Budget exceeded one million dollars ($1,035,000), while in FY 2024, as proposed, it stands at $1.9 million—indicating notable growth in taxable value within the CRA district. Ms. Williams discussed the FY 2024 Budget’s proposed distribution of funds, noting that certain expenditure categories are proposed with a decrease in percentage share of overall budget allocation, when compared with FY 2023 although actual funding increases are proposed due to the substantial growth in the amount of the total budget. Ms. Williams highlighted a proposed funding increase from FY 2023 to FY 2024 for the Enhanced North Beach CRA Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes – September 12, 2023 Page 2 of 6 Services project categories, Community Policing, Code Compliance, and a significant boost in Sanitation services expenditures. In response to a question from Committee member Elizabeth Latone, Ms. Williams emphasized that CRA funds do not supplant the general provision of City services; they are used to supplement above existing levels of service. Vice Chair Perez specified an area of Collins Avenue where she thinks CRA funds should be dedicated to improve and maintain City rights-of-way. Responding to Chair Smith, Ms. Williams explained that the CRA derives authority to fund Community Policing from the Florida Statutes’ Community Redevelopment Act and the Interlocal Agreement. With the additional funding from the CRA, the Miami Beach Police Department (MBPD) can provide enhanced levels of staffing and support, above and beyond what is covered through the City’s General Fund. As property values grow within the CRA and more revenue becomes available for additional projects and programs, it may become more reasonable to consider funding full-time dedicated police officers in the future. Police Captain Marlen Rivero, who presides over the North Beach district for MBPD, offered further clarity as to MBPD’s use of CRA funds. Full time dedicated officers are not assigned exclusively to the CRA, rather, officers contribute segments of time to a North Beach CRA police detail. These officers provide additional coverage in the CRA beyond their standard 10-hour shifts, dedicating extra hours to serve the Redevelopment Area. Captain Rivero shared that the allocation depends on the area’s specific demands at the time. For instance, if traffic concerns are heightened, motor officers may be deployed, or, if narcotics issues seem elevated, circumstances might require involvement by MBPD detectives. This service enhancement is beneficial because the resources brought to the area are tailored to the needs of the community at that moment, making it a flexible and responsive approach rather than funding full-time dedicated officers. Discussion touched upon the set-aside of reserve funds and the treatment of any unspent funds from the current year. In accordance with the Interlocal Agreement, the Proposed Budget includes $194,000 for affordable and workforce housing, roughly 10% of the combined FY 2024 TIF revenues. Similarly, the set-aside for future projects saw a substantial increase, with $791,000allocated for FY 2024. Ms. Williams added that the Economic Development team has been collaborating with various City departments to establish expectations and reporting requirements to monitor effective utilization of these funds. Chair Smith inquired into the anticipated timeline for availability of funds. Ms. Williams replied by providing insight into the County's budget approval process. Last year, the CRA could not expend funds until initial approval of its first budget by the Miami-Dade County Board of County Commissioners (the “BCC”). However, spending pursuant to the FY 2024 budget is only limited in that it cannot exceed expenditure in an amount greater than the previous year’s budget, until such time as the BCC formally approves the new budget in the amount of $1.9 million. Ms. Williams shared that, typically, County staff does not delay completing the electronic funds transfer once formal approval is granted. That said, the BCC legislative calendar does not typically consider CRA budget approvals until several months into the fiscal year. North Beach CRA Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes – September 12, 2023 Page 3 of 6 4. Update: Façade/Property Improvement Programs Luis Wong, Administrative Services Manager, announced that the Commercial Façade Improvement Program’s application process is now live for public access via GoSmart (https://mbbiz.gosmart.org). Mr. Wong noted that careful effort went into ensuring the user- friendliness of the application process. Nevertheless, he reminded that support and assistance are readily available to anyone who desires guidance. The CRA staff is present at the district office for dedicated office hours on Tuesdays and Thursdays and can be reached through email (mbbiz@miamibeachfl.gov) or phone (305-673-7572) to schedule an in-person or virtual informational session on any business day. Mr. Wong introduced Michael Rivera, Redevelopment Specialist, to share additional information about the grant process. Mr. Rivera shared an overview of the application process including the standardized procedure form. Once potential applicants register on the GoSmart website, submission of an Intent to Apply form is the initial step to submitting an application. Upon receipt of the form, City staff will strive to provide a response within a few business days, and schedule an in-person introductory meeting to discuss proposed improvements and how to submit an application complete with requisite documentation. Mr. Rivera shared that two (2) parties have already expressed interest in the Residential Property Improvement Program and five (5) businesses are interested in the Commercial Façade Improvement Program. Chair Smith inquired about the need for landlord approval to apply, which Mr. Smith believes could pose a challenge, since some landlords may find the process burdensome. Mr. Rivera emphasized how outreach efforts will highlight the beneficial value of the program, with hopes that early program participants will promote the grants and inspire others in the community to apply. Committee member Romina Orozco-Encio agreed, noting how word of mouth inquiries amplified when her floral shop was featured in Miami Beach Magazine. She also inquired whether her business could apply for the Commercial Façade Improvement Program seeing that she is a member of the Advisory Committee, and Ms. Williams offered to seek guidance from the CRA General Counsel. 5. Update: Public Safety Status Report Captain Marlen Rivero, , introduced Officer Julio Banco, North Beach Neighborhood Resource Officer (NRO). Both Captain Rivero and NRO Blanco have served in their North Beach leadership positions since the creation of the North Beach CRA. Officer Blanco delivered a recap of law enforcement and community policing during the CRA’s first year, sharing that MBPD’s focus on proactively addressing community issues, rather than reactive responsiveness, has proven a "force multiplier" in neighborhood improvement. This has resulted in a significant number of arrests, including 37 felonies, 46 misdemeanor arrests, and 4 warrant arrests. Law enforcement has addressed issues such as DUIs, Baker Act and Marchman Act concerns, and 154 traffic citations. MBPD’s community-oriented strategy focuses on developing relationships with community members in the Redevelopment Area, by walking the beat, introducing themselves to local business operators, and listening to concerns from business owners and residents. MBPD encourages individuals to report issues and documented a total of 73 case reports filed based on North Beach CRA Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes – September 12, 2023 Page 4 of 6 community input. Additionally, officers have been involved in addressing homelessness, by providing assistance as needed and making referrals to support services. Committee member David Sexton acknowledged a visible improvement in the incidence of homeless individuals congregating around the Normandy Fountain, and he thanked the officers for their humane, yet effective, treatment when interacting with the city’s population experiencing homelessness. When Officer Blanco finished his presentation, Committee members Elizabeth Latone asked how residents could assist MBPD in carrying out their law enforcement functions, such as expediting crime lab processing, and Ronnie Issenberg shared concerns about illegal commercial boat charters, which operate covertly in his residential neighborhood. New Business 6. Design Guidelines and Approval Process Michael Belush, Planning & Design Officer, City of Miami Beach Planning Department, discussed the topic of general design guidelines to keep in mind as businesses explore participation in the Commercial Façade Improvement Program. Mr. Belush noted that modifications to an existing structure should be compatible with the environment and adjacent structures and enhance the appearance of the subject property and surrounding properties. Mr. Belush offered that businesses considering program participation are welcomed to consult with the Planning Department about their proposed façade renovations and whether their proposed scope of work can be approved administratively. 7. Rent/Utility Assistance and Mortgage Relief Program Marcela Rubio, Assistant Director, Office of Housing and Community Services, introduced herself and Alba Tarre, Director of Housing and Community Services. Ms. Rubio shared that their department is located at 555 17th Street on the City Hall campus. The Office of Housing and Community Services (“HCS”) collaborates with intergovernmental agencies and community partners in the provision of social and community services. For example, the Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF) staffs a representative in the HCS office to assist with food stamp applications, renewals, and related inquiries. HCS partners with Legal Services of Greater Miami to address tenants’ rights issues and HCS administers three (3) grants from the Children's Trust to aid families, with a focus on the North Beach area. Currently, HCS has dedicated funding available for rent, utility assistance, and mortgage relief programs through State CDBG Coronavirus funding. The Florida Department of Economic Opportunity has provided in excess of $300,000 to assist residents with up to (6) six months of rent in arrears or to defray moving expenses for those relocating to Miami Beach. Ms. Rubio mentioned that household income eligibility is restricted to 80% area median income (AMI), which translates to approximately $57,000 for a one-person household. To apply for these funds, residents can request an appointment through the HCS website (https://www.miamibeachfl.gov/city-hall/housing-and- community-development/). Vice Chair Betsy Perez inquired about the outreach efforts used to educate the public about available resources. Committee member David Sexton expressed interest in Ms. Rubio attending North Beach CRA Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes – September 12, 2023 Page 5 of 6 a future Fountain event hosted by the Normandy Fountain Business Association and Ms. Rubio accepted the offer. 8. Committee Member Comments Vice Chair Perez inquired about development regarding the Ocean Terrace project. David Martinez, Director of the Office of Capital Improvement Projects (CIP), shared that the developer received its construction permit the day before. Per the development agreement, the developer has 60 days to commence work, although they are planning to begin much sooner. A letter to the commission (LTC) announcing the groundbreaking is forthcoming once details surrounding a groundbreaking can be finalized. At the request of Vice Chair Perez, Mr. Martinez offered to provide a more thorough update at the next meeting, including a breakdown of project phasing, and the project milestones and requirements contained in the development agreement. Committee member Romina Orozco-Encio expressed her appreciation for the in-person meetings and she hopes to continue to conduct the meetings with visits to other North Beach businesses. Vice Chair Perez offered gratitude to the meeting’s hosts at Karnitas 71. David Sexton informed that the Normandy Fountain Business Association is preparing to announce its upcoming programming season at the Normandy Fountain Plaza, set to kick off in October. Mr. Sexton shared details regarding a series of events including a regularly scheduled vintage fair and artisan market. Florida Fresh Markets is slated to appear before the City Commission to seek an extension of their contract for Lummus Park. In the event of an extension, there are plans to expand the group’s presence at the Fountain. Ronnie Issenberg shared that he was impressed with the presentation and rollout of the CRA grant programs discussed today. He feels that the online application, informational collateral, and helpful customer service by CRA staff will enhance the user experience and he is proud to be associated with these programs. Committee member Elizabeth Latone briefly discussed the following day’s City Commission agenda items that pertain to North Beach. Chair Smith again thanked the operators of Karnitas 71 for hosting the meeting. He shared that he plans to patronize the venue now that he is familiar with the restaurant. 9. Public Comments No public comments were made. 10. Adjournment Motion was made and the meeting adjourned at 6:12 p.m. Next Meeting: Tuesday, October 10, 2023 – https://us06web.zoom.us/j/85384824423