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HomeMy WebLinkAbout3 - Meeting Minutes_11-20-2025 General Obligation Bond Oversight Committee City of Miami Beach MEETING MINUTES No. 58 November 20, 2025 Members Present: Members Absent: Karen Rivo, Chair Bruce Halpryn Dana Martorella Isaac Kessler Daniel Veitia Jason Koslowe Kate Mosley Margalit Edelman Non-Voting Members Present: Non-Voting Members Absent: Adam Kravitz Jack Benveniste Donald Goldberg Non-Voting Members via Zoom: David Sexton Isaiah Mosley Staff and Guests Present: Thais Vieira, Liaison Krystal Dobbins Colette Satchell Kyle Teijeiro Daniel Alzuri Lauren Firtell Elizabeth Estevez Roland Aragunde Elizabeth Miro Ainsworth Geddes Ghassan Choueiry Brandi Reddick Frank Garcia David Philips Heather Shaw Juan Jose Escalante Jani Singer Ximena Caminos Kristy Bada Meeting Start Time: 4:00 pm General Notes: These meeting minutes are condensed and seek to capture the overall intent of discussions as interpreted by the meeting coordinator. Each paragraph indicates the time on the audio recording where the discussion commenced during the meeting. For more detail on the discussion, please refer to the audio recording in its entirety. All current and past meeting materials including agendas, handouts, minutes, presentations, and audio recordings are available by visiting: www.GOMBInfo.com/OversightCommittee/Meeting Records. I. Roll Call and Introductions (Refer to the Meeting Audio Recording on the G.O. Bond Website.) 00:18 Chair Karen Rivo called the meeting to order. Roll call was completed. II. Committee Business G.O. Bond Oversight Committee Meeting Minutes No. 58 November 20, 2025 Page 2 of 8 • Committee Members re-appointments (Refer to page 2 of the Agenda & Handouts Packet on the G.O. Bond website.) 02:15 Members with terms expiring on December 31, 2025 were reminded to re-apply. • Meeting Dates for 2026 03:45 The tentative date for the January meeting has been set for January 22. A calendar invitation will be sent to all committee members. The remaining calendar for the year will be presented at the January meeting, following the finalization of the City Commission calendar. • Adoption of Meeting Minutes from 09-18-25 Motion: 04:37 Jason Koslowe made a motion to approve the minutes as presented. Kate Mosley seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously. III. Tranche 2 – New Declaration of Intent to Issue (Update) (Refer to page 3 of the Agenda & Handouts Packet on the G.O. Bond website.) 4:57 Thais Vieira noted that during the last meeting, the committee discussed the declaration of intent to issue additional bond funds under the infrastructure category. However, a scrivener’s error was identified in the total amount: the correct figure is $81,282,000, plus an estimated $800,000 in closing costs, bringing the total to $82,082,000. Motion: 07:13 The Committee made a motion to support the administration's recommendation to issue a new Declaration of Intent to Issue in an amount up to $82,082,000 under the 2018 G.O. Bond Neighborhoods & Infrastructure category. Motion made by: Daniel Veitia Motion seconded by: Jason Koslowe. Motion passed 6-0. 2022 G.O. Bonds for Arts & Culture IV. Arts and Culture Program General Status Update (Refer to pages 4-10 of the Agenda & Handouts Packet on the G.O. Bond website.) 7:46 Thais Vieira reported that $3.6 million has been spent since the last meeting, bringing the total expenditure to $22.2 million. Additionally, $3.9 million is currently encumbered, with 24% of all Tranche 1 (T1) funds either spent or committed. Regarding sub-projects: 25% are now complete; 44 out of 48 sub-projects are either complete or actively underway; 32% of the total value of all T1 projects is either complete or under construction. G.O. Bond Oversight Committee Meeting Minutes No. 58 November 20, 2025 Page 3 of 8 She also noted the creation of one new sub-project: Structural Repairs at North Beach Oceanfront Center, bringing the total number of sub-projects to 48. Since the last meeting, Reefline Phase 1 has been completed, and the lighting sub-project at the Art Deco Welcome Center has progressed from the design phase to construction. Regarding construction commencements, there have been no changes since the last meeting. However, the 2026 calendar year has now been added to the chart. V. 2022 Bonds Projects Update (Refer to pages 11-18 of the Agenda & Handouts Packet on the G.O. Bond website.) Fillmore (Jackie Gleason) 12:40 Daniel Alzuri reported that the basic terms of the agreement with Live Nation were presented at the September meeting of the Finance & Economic Resilience Committee (FERC). Feedback from that meeting has been incorporated, and FERC’s recommendation will be presented to the City Commission on December 17, with the final agreement returning for approval in January. 13:39 Margalit Edelman asked about the $90,000 already spent. Thais Vieira explained that the funds were used for internal City oversight and management fees. 13:49 Daniel Alzuri reported that the Fillmore will be closed for approximately 18 months during renovations. The goal is to sequence the hotel and theatre openings within a reasonable timeframe. Renovations will include state-of-the-art production equipment and capabilities, upgraded finishes in lobbies, lighting, and audio systems, new bars with additional points of sale, improved pathways and restrooms, and enhanced exterior landscaping. 15:33 Jason Koslowe asked whether the outdoor space would be used for performances during construction. Daniel Alzuri responded that while briefly discussed, it is not being contemplated. 16:04 Chair Karen Rivo suggested that the design be presented to the Committee at a future meeting. Byron Carlyle Theatre 16:27 Daniel Alzuri reported that a Sunshine Meeting was held with Commissioners David Suarez and Tanya Bhatt. The outcome of the meeting was a unified front regarding a vision for Byron Carlyle that everyone can get behind. The Miami International Film Festival was engaged to weigh in on curated movie programming, which will affect the building's programming a bit. The team plans to present an RFQ (Request for Qualifications) for the selection of a project design team at the December Commission meeting. The proposed team will include an architect and a professional with workforce housing development experience. This collaborative structure is intended to enable real-time coordination between design and financial planning, including development of the operating cost pro forma, and definition of the capital stack for workforce housing. If approved, the RFQ will be issued in January. G.O. Bond Oversight Committee Meeting Minutes No. 58 November 20, 2025 Page 4 of 8 18:11 Daniel Veitia asked whether there had been any changes to the project scope. Daniel Alzuri confirmed that no changes have occurred. He emphasized that the cultural center is clearly defined within the AMS building program and is fully funded. The workforce housing component must be defined, which is why the selected firm must include professionals experienced in workforce housing development. 18:51 Daniel Veitia asked whether the team had engaged with the Miami Beach Housing Authority to understand their approach to workforce housing. Daniel Alzuri responded that while no formal discussions have taken place yet, initial outreach has begun, and the team hopes to have a comprehensive conversation before the process concludes. 19:21 Margalit Edelman asked whether the team would be able to assess the actual affordability of the proposed housing. Daniel Alzuri acknowledged this as a key concern, noting a benchmark of 120% AMI (Area Median Income) equates to approximately $2,300/month for a studio, which may not be truly affordable. The AMI increased by 9% last year, and based on discussions with developers, rents are expected to rise by another 9% next year. 20:31 Jason Koslowe asked whether the City could impose its own affordability standards as part of the developer agreement. Daniel Alzuri confirmed that the RFQ is being structured to include a rate mix between 80% and 120% AMI, with an average target of 100% AMI. Discussion continued. North Beach Oceanfront Center 33:47 Daniel Alzuri reported that both the external and internal phases of the project are now at the permitting stage. The team is actively working to secure a general contractor, with construction anticipated to begin in late Q1 of 2026. The top priority is to minimize disruption to the Senior Center’s services, as any interruptions could impact their grant funding. MB Bandshell Building Improvement 35:18 Colette Satchell reported that the project is facing budgetary challenges. In collaboration with the Rhythm Foundation, the team developed a phased approach, which allows the team to design the full program as requested. The team anticipates beginning the Historic Preservation Board (HPB) process in December, with submission planned for March. 36:32 Daniel Veitia asked whether staff had met with the Rhythm Foundation to identify their critical needs. In response, Colette reiterated that even the minimum scope exceeds the budget by about $1 million and emphasized that the phased strategy will allow the team to explore additional grant opportunities. 38:09 Chair Karen Rivo asked how long the Bandshell would need to close. Colette responded that the design allows continued operation, as the addition will wrap around the north and east ends of the building. The most intrusive phase will occur near the delivery area, requiring coordination for deliveries, trash pickup, and other logistics. G.O. Bond Oversight Committee Meeting Minutes No. 58 November 20, 2025 Page 5 of 8 39:48 Committee members discussed the importance of encouraging private donations and philanthropic support for projects like the Rhythm Foundation, especially considering current budget limitations. Bass Museum Multipurpose Addition 46:06 Colette Satchell reported that a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) is scheduled for Commission approval on December 17, which will authorize the Bass Museum to lead the design phase of the project. Simultaneously, the Office of Capital Improvements (CIP) and Procurement will present an item to the Commission for the award of the Construction Manager at Risk (CMR) contract. The design process will begin in early 2026. The Bass Museum will fund the design process, allowing Bond funds to be fully allocated to construction. 47:17 Chair Karen Rivo asked about the anticipated timeline for the project. Colette Satchell responded that the project is expected to be completed by 2029. However, a more definitive schedule for the design and permitting phases will be available once the design team is on board. VI. Public Comment No one from the public requested to speak. 2018 G.O. Bonds VII. Program General Status Update (Refer to pages 19-28 of the Agenda & Handouts Packet on the G.O. Bond website.) Not discussed. VIII. 2018 Bonds Projects Update (Refer to pages 29-34 of the Agenda & Handouts Packet on the G.O. Bond website.) PAR 3 / Bayshore Park 50:50 Chair Karen Rivo reported that she met with David Gomez and Colette Satchell to go over a list of concerns and punch list items. She asked Colette Satchell to address some of the issues raised. 52:12 Jason Koslowe noted that in other cities, assets like Bayshore Park are sometimes managed by a conservancy or city-appointed board, which holds funding and operational control to maintain high standards. 53:23 Colette Satchell responded that the administration would take the feedback into consideration. She clarified that the Parks Department is responsible for programming and related operations. She explained that they’ve had to adjust their operating budget due to unique features at Bayshore Park, such as the water filtration system, and have submitted a budget request to ensure sufficient operating funds. CIP is working to transition the project by providing training on new systems and features to ensure the Parks team is fully prepared. G.O. Bond Oversight Committee Meeting Minutes No. 58 November 20, 2025 Page 6 of 8 She addressed concerns about the crushed coquina walkways, confirming they are ADA compliant, but must be properly compacted and maintained. Additional concerns included access from surrounding neighborhoods. She noted: • Phase 2 of the Bayshore Traffic Calming Project will address the NW corner at Prairie and 28th Street, adding crosswalks. • Walkways along 28th Street now allow access from the Scott Rakow side. • Pine Tree Drive access is more challenging. A proposed crosswalk was rejected by Miami- Dade County due to proximity to an existing crosswalk and was removed from the design. 58:06 Ghassan Choueiry reported that the Transportation Department is conducting a traffic analysis to re-evaluate the possibility of adding a new crosswalk on Pine Tree Drive and a left- turn lane into the parking lot from the northbound direction. The analysis has been submitted, and the County provided comments that the team is working to address by December. He emphasized that the County owns the roadway, and any changes must be approved by them. Additionally, since the area is a school zone, any crosswalk installation must involve Miami-Dade County Public Schools (MDCPS). 59:59 Chair Karen Rivo suggested informing the community about the city’s efforts to address some of the concerns raised. In response, Colette Satchell stated that the project website is still active, and CIP is compiling the list of comments received. Some items, such as the ADA walkway to the children’s playground, are already on the punch list. She confirmed that the team can post updates on the website to show progress on community concerns. CIP will also schedule a pre-construction meeting early next year for the Bayshore Traffic Calming Project. Work is underway on signage, with a draft circulated internally for comments and installation expected in the coming months. Colette Satchell added that aeration system for the pond is being installed, the mesh for the platform openings is also in the works. 1:03:05 Jason Koslowe expressed appreciation for the park and noted that while complaints are inevitable, it’s important to create a space for communication. He suggested a temporary update page on the GO Bond or Parks website to inform residents about ongoing efforts. 1:02:36 Thais Vieira reminded the committee that the GO Bond website includes a page for each project, with contact info for the Neighborhood Affairs Coordinator, Gabriella Gonzalez in this case. She added that CIP has a separate project page for Bayshore Park with detailed information and past communications via Constant Contact. She proposed sending out another Constant Contact alert with current updates, which would also be stored on the website. She offered to add the link to the CIP page on the GO Bond project page. Fire Station #1 1:09:50 Colette Satchell reported that the City Commission directed the administration to issue an RFLI (Request for Letters of Interest) to gauge interest from private properties. The RFLI was sent out on November 6 to 92 entities. Simultaneously, CIP was tasked with identifying city- owned sites that could potentially accommodate the fire station. During a recent Commission G.O. Bond Oversight Committee Meeting Minutes No. 58 November 20, 2025 Page 7 of 8 meeting, one property was recommended and subsequently inspected by CIP. On December 17, CIP will present an item to the Commission to provide an update and request direction. 1:12:30 Jack Benveniste asked for clarification on the $3.4 million already spent. In response, Colette explained that CIP had designed and engaged consultants and contractors twice. At the South Shore Community site, the design was completed, the contractor was engaged, and the daycare relocation process was initiated. The contractor was approved, bonds signed, and insurance paid. CIP was then instructed to close out the project. A second design process was initiated for the Flamingo Park site, west of the football field. A 30% conceptual design was developed before CIP was again instructed to halt the project. 1:13:27 Adam Kravitz, representing the Audit Committee, stated that the Inspector General (IG) is reviewing the issue as a prime example of waste. The IG’s office is currently preparing a report with recommendations. Discussion continued. 1:18:10 Chair Karen Rivo asked that the Fire Chief be invited to the next meeting. Log Cabin 1:18:47 Colette Satchell reported that the Design Review Board (DRB) approved the Log Cabin design earlier today. The team will now proceed to develop 60% construction documents, expected to be completed by late December or early January. The 90% design documents are anticipated by end of February, after which the permitting process will begin. Construction is expected to commence by November 2026. 1:19:28 Daniel Veitia asked for clarification regarding the proposed site for the Log Cabin. Colette reported that it is being built within the park, just north of the 81st Street entrance. 1:19:53 Daniel Veitia asked whether the City has discussed the purpose and programming of the Log Cabin. Colette responded that a Commission item proposing programming ideas will be heard at the December 17 meeting. She added that the Dover Kohl plan recommended using the space as a community hub or information center, intended for multipurpose community use. 1:28:29 Thais Vieira added that there were four items related to the Log Cabin on the agenda for the October Public Safety Neighborhood Quality of Life Committee, but they were all deferred. These items are listed in the List of Meetings (provided as Exhibit IX to the agenda). 1:21:15 Chair Karen Rivo informed the Committee that she received a call this week from a resident saying he represented a group of residents who are drafting a letter indicating they want the Log Cabin located in the West Lots and not in the park. Discussion continued. Pedestrian Bridge 1:24:33 Colette Satchell reported that the contractor encountered unforeseen underground conditions, specifically an FPL underground utility bank located approximately 33 feet below G.O. Bond Oversight Committee Meeting Minutes No. 58 November 20, 2025 Page 8 of 8 grade. The team is currently working with FPL to determine the exact layout, which will likely require a structural design revision. The FPL distribution line, which services much of South Beach via a directional bore from the mainland, was not damaged. FPL is scheduled to conduct an on- site investigation during the second week of December to confirm what exists underground and advise CIP on possible next steps. The worst-case scenario would involve a foundation redesign, which would require additional permitting. 1:25:57 Dana Martorella asked if there is anything being done to move forward those segments behind private properties that are not in compliance. Colette Satchell stated that there are separate projects that are handling the different baywalk segments. Some of them are party to a development agreement, and negotiations are underway with the boards and many of the property owners. The developers are surveying the individual properties, so that they can start their design process for each property. Hopefully, all the gaps that currently exist will be filled. Normandy Isle Traffic Calming 1:28:18 Ghassan Choueiry reported that the design was approved by Miami-Dade County in October. The team will present at the December 17 Commission meeting seeking a resolution regarding residents objection to one of the traffic devices, which will be addressed during a public hearing. This is required in order to move the project forward to construction in 2026. Bayshore Traffic Calming - T1 1:33:12 Ghassan Choueiry reported that Bayshore Traffic Calming Project will be implemented in two phases. Phase 1 is permitted, funded and the Invitation to Bid (ITB) will be issued shortly. Phase 2 includes the traffic circle on 28th street and Prairie Ave, and a crosswalk at the 28th Street near Bayshore park. He noted that DERM approval is still pending for Phase 2, and the agency has requested additional environmental testing before issuing the permit. IX. Community Outreach (Refer to pages 35-36 of the Agenda & Handouts Packet on the G.O. Bond website). 1:35:23 Thais Vieira went over the list of upcoming meetings. She noted that the October Commission meeting was cancelled. The DRB meeting was held on the 20th of November. She also reported that the Reefline inauguration has taken place. X. Public Comment 1:36:08 Ximena Caminos presented a short video to the Committee. She stated that the community is embracing the project and everyone is going out safely. The whole deployment process was very successful. During Art Week, there will be a floating Marine Learning Center with a vessel for everyone to come and enjoy for free. Monday, December 1st, has been reserved for the Committee. XI. Adjournment 1:39:08 Network connectivity lost. Meeting adjourned.