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HomeMy WebLinkAbout3. Meeting Minutes_03-12-26 General Obligation Bond Oversight Committee City of Miami Beach MEETING MINUTES No. 60 March 12, 2026 Members Present: Non-Voting Members Present: Karen Rivo, Chair Jack Benveniste Dana Martorella Donald Goldberg Daniel Veitia David Sexton Jason Koslowe Andy Chabassol Kate Mosley Bruce Halpryn Margalit Edelman Adam Kravtiz Sean Smith Isaac Kessler Staff Present: Guests Present: Thais Vieira, Liaison Brandi Reddick Bryan Niedelson Cesar Sepulveda Daniel Alzuri David Phillips David Gomez Ximena Caminos Elizabeth Miro Frank Garcia Heather Shaw Kyle Teijeiro Lissette Arrogante Justin Karr Maria Cerna Mohsen Abu Shaaban Nicholas Levy 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 & Introductions (Refer to the Meeting Audio Recording on the G.O. Bond Website.) 00:00:40 Chair Karen Rivo opened the meeting and invited introductions, noting new members Andy Chabassol and Sean Smith. G.O. Bond Oversight Committee Meeting Minutes No. 60 March 12, 2026 Page 2 of 8 II. Committee Business  Adoption of Meeting Minutes Motion: 00:04:45 Jason Koslowe made a motion to approve minutes that were presented. Kate Mosley seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously. III. Stop the Pause Ordinance Update 00:06:59 Thais Vieira provided a brief overview of the proposed Ordinance, for the benefit of the new members. She explained that following the first reading, the City Commission referred the item to the Neighborhoods and Resilience Committee for further review. She noted that one of the Commissioners heard a lot of feedback raised by residents regarding maintaining opportunities for public input before projects reached advanced stages. CIP Director David Gomez will provide an update following conclusion of the Neighborhoods & Resilience Committee meeting, which is taking place at the same time as this G.O. Bond Oversight Committee meeting. 00:07:46 Karen Rivo explained the G.O Bond committee’s past support for extending the policy is based on prior delays to Fire Station 1 and other affected projects. 00:10:16 Isaac Kessler asked for clarification on whether 30% and 60% percent design milestones are exact benchmarks or general industry terms. In response, Maria Cerna clarified that these percentages are standard project milestones used to describe levels of design completion. She added that at 30% design, the general concept is defined, while at 60% design, more detailed elements are incorporated. 2022 G.O. Bonds for Arts & Culture IV. Program General Status Update (Refer to pages 3-9 of the Agenda & Handouts Packet on the G.O. Bond website). 00:12:45 Thais Vieira reported that approximately $1.4 million has been spent since the last meeting, and that roughly 30% of tranche 1 funds have been spent or encumbered. Of the 43 subprojects, 14 have been completed and 10 are currently under construction. She also noted that 33% of the total value of all tranche 1 projects is either complete or under construction. The Jewish Museum project has begun construction, and the Art Deco Museum lighting project has been completed. 00:16:00 Thais Vieira presented an overview of the 2025–2026 Construction Commencements chart, noting that it captures projects expected to begin construction, with tracking starting in 2024 and continuing through the current period. V. 2022 Bonds Projects Update (Refer to pages 10-15 of the Agenda & Handouts Packet on the G.O. Bond website). Bandshell 00:22:25 Maria Cerna reported that the project has reached the 30% design milestone and is scheduled for presentation to the Historic Preservation Board (HPB) on March 17. She noted that G.O. Bond Oversight Committee Meeting Minutes No. 60 March 12, 2026 Page 3 of 8 recent cost estimates came in over budget, and the Rhythm Foundation has agreed to pursue a phased construction strategy. As part of the fiscal year 2027 Capital Budget process, a funding request of $1.9 million is being submitted. 00:25:35 Margalit Edelman asked whether the facility would need to close for an extended period during construction. Maria Cerna responded that the City intends to avoid prolonged interruptions and will coordinate closely with the Rhythm Foundation to minimize impacts. 00:26:25 Daniel Veitia noted that the facility typically goes dark during the summer and emphasized the strong working relationship between the Rhythm Foundation and the City. 00:27:05 Jason Koslowe inquired about opportunities for outside sponsorship and naming rights for capital projects. Karen Rivo noted that an item related to this topic is scheduled for next week’s City Commission agenda. Byron Carlyle Theater 00:28:33 Daniel Alzuri reported that the City received more than ten proposals in response to the Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for the design firm, and that the Evaluation Committee members have been appointed. He also noted that a preliminary review by the Planning Department found the existing building is unlikely to meet historic designation criteria due to extensive alterations over the years. Finally, he shared that a Resolution on next week’s Commission agenda (item R7 P) proposes rejecting the current cultural center/workforce housing plan in favor of renovating the existing structure and converting it into a first-run movie theater and family-entertainment complex. 00:31:40 David Sexton reported that he attended the Town Hall meeting, sponsored by Commissioner Suarez, and he felt there was overwhelming support for the Cultural Center. 00:32:36 Adam Kravitz expressed concerns regarding the viability of developing a large-scale, state- of-the-art movie theater, noting potential cost implications and uncertainty about long-term demand. In response, David Alzuri stated that the city has explored alternative programming concepts, including discussions with the Miami International Film Festival to operate a more boutique, curated film program within the facility. The concept would support ongoing activation of the site, potentially with a smaller-scale theater component integrated into a broader cultural center. Discussion continued. Holocaust Memorial 00:44:41 Daniel Alzuri reported that the Education Center received its Certificate of Occupancy (CO) on March 3 and will reopen on March 22. He mentioned there are some outstanding GOBAC projects that will be paused on March 22 through the summer to allow for the re-opening of the facilities. They are expecting to finish by the end of 2026 or early 2027. 00:45:29 Thais Vieira clarified that G.O. Bond funds supported renovations on the existing facilities, while the Education Center is separately funded. G.O. Bond Oversight Committee Meeting Minutes No. 60 March 12, 2026 Page 4 of 8 New World Symphony 00:47:00 Daniel Alzuri reported that the flood barrier permit has been issued, installation will begin in June and expected to finish by the end of 2026. The camera and robotic system upgrades are complete, and elevator modernization is pending materials. The first mock Wallcast with the new sound system has been successfully completed and the next event will be held on April 18. North Beach Oceanside Center (NBOC) 00:48:22 Daniel Alzuri shared that the plans for the exterior work have been completed and permits were issued for structural and interior work. Construction is expected to begin late in the second quarter of 2026. The project timeline is dependent on resolving procurement issues for interior renovations and coordination with the center’s programming. The interior scope is expected to take about three and half months, while the exterior is estimated to take between 18 and 24 months. 00:49:56 Daniel Veitia asked whether the $2.4 million from the G.O Bond covered all facility-related scopes. 00:50:05 Thais Vieira clarified that the $2.4 million represents the amount appropriated from the G.O. Bond for the first phase of structural repairs. She noted that the second phase still requires funding and will move through the capital budget process. 00:50:24 Daniel Veitia asked for the total project cost expectations beyond the current G.O. Bond allocation. 00:50:34 Thais Vieira reported that the Facilities department requested $1.4 million for the second phase, for a total of approximately $3.8 million. Aquatic Sculpture Park (ReefLine) 00:52:52 Daniel Alzuri reported that following the deployment of Phase 1 in October, the project has progressed into Phases 2 and 3. Phase 2 was originally designed into 2 components, the “Heart of Okeanos” and “Miami Reef Star”, but due to site constraints within the existing permitted area in South Beach, the team is reconfiguring the deployment approach. Phase 2 development is now anticipated for late summer/early fall in South Beach. Phase 3 will consist of the deployment of the Miami Reef Star in North Beath. 00:54:40 Ximena Caminos announced that Phase 1 deployment was successful, with the project receiving recognition from Time Magazine – “World’s Greatest Places”. 00:58:13 Brandi Reddick reported that biological monitoring with the University of Miami showed strong marine life growth, and that up to 2,200 native corals are scheduled for outplanting. 01:00:01 In response to Sean Smith asking for the total visitation numbers, Ximena reported that while visitation numbers aren’t tracked, estimates may be obtained through tour operators. She mentioned that there has been an increase in engagement through hotel partnerships and programming, with consistent public activity at the reef. G.O. Bond Oversight Committee Meeting Minutes No. 60 March 12, 2026 Page 5 of 8 Public Comment No one from the public requested to speak. 2018 G.O. Bonds VI. Program General Status Update (Refer to pages 16-25 of the Agenda & Handouts Packet on the G.O. Bond website). 01:05:24 Thais Vieira reported that an additional $1.2 million has been spent since the last meeting and approximately 80 percent of all active funds are now spent or encumbered. She reminded the Committee that the City Commission recently approved the second Declaration of Intent to Issue additional bonds in the Infrastructure Category totaling approximately $82 million. This is not yet reflected in the presentation. 01:07:40 Karen Rivo asked for clarification on which G.O. Bond categories have tranche 2 funds. Thais Vieira responded that only the Infrastructure Category has been funded to date and that additional categories, in Parks and Public Safety, have not required Tranche 2 funding. 01:10:06 Thais Vieira gave an update on the Summary Sub-Projects – Tranche 1 chart, mentioning that the program includes 91 active projects, reflecting the cancellation of the Chase Avenue Shared Use Path Project. Thais Vieira noted that funds from this project will be reallocated to a new future bicycle lane/ shared use path initiative. 01:11:13 Regarding 2026 construction commencements, Thais Vieira reported a revised third quarter commencement for the Flamingo Park Baseball Stadium and Bayshore Traffic calming projects. 01:12:40 Sean Smith had concerns whether there was any communication with stakeholders regarding program impacts related to the flamingo baseball stadium project. Maria Cerna indicated that stakeholders will continue to have access to the field during construction and that this information will be communicated to them. VII. 2018 Bonds Projects Update (Refer to pages 26-31 of the Agenda & Handouts Packet on the G.O. Bond website). Chase Ave/34 St Shared Use Path 01:20:05 Maria Cerna reported that on February 25, the City Commission adopted a resolution to discontinue this project, along with the Meridian Avenue Shared Use Path (not a GOB funded project). Fire Station 1 01:23:42 Maria Cerna reported that the City is currently negotiating with the Construction Manager at Risk to establish a Guaranteed Maximum Price (GMP) for the construction of the temporary daycare facility at Flamingo Park, which must be completed prior to demolition of the existing South Shore Community Center building. It is anticipated that the item will be presented to the City Commission in April. They will also be seeking approval from the City Commission on the Certificate G.O. Bond Oversight Committee Meeting Minutes No. 60 March 12, 2026 Page 6 of 8 of Appropriateness for demolition. She reported that in February, the Historic Preservation Board (HPB) approved the proposed design of the new Fire Station but voted 3-3 on the proposed demolition of the existing facility. 01:26:01 Daniel Veitia asked for clarification on the total project budget, including non-GOB funds. Maria Cerna estimated at roughly $46 million, including an $11 grant funding from Resilient Florida. Ocean Drive 01:27:18 Maria Cerna reported that the City Commission approved the full pedestrianization option. County review will begin once design progresses. 72nd Street Community Complex 01:28:40 Maria Cerna reported that the project is at approximately 60 percent design completion. Recent cost estimates exceeded the project budget by approximately $10 million, and the project team is now undertaking a value-engineering process before advancing the design to the 90% milestone. 01:29:13 In response to Jason Koslowe’s questions regarding the project budget, Maria Cerna stated that the project is approximately $106 million. 01:29:44 Sean Smith expressed concern that the impact of value engineering would significantly alter the final product compared to what was previously presented to the public. He also questioned how the funding gap would be addressed. In response, David Gomez clarified that earlier design proposals (in the Design-Build model) significantly exceeded the available project budget threshold prompting a change in delivery model. He stated that the current plan reflects a more cost-aligned design, though the project remains slightly over budget, and that adjustments are expected to bring the project within budget, without impacts to the design. 01:32:04 In response to Daniel Veitia’s question regarding the timeline for the closure of the parking lot and commencement of construction, David Gomez reported that the Guaranteed Maximum Price (GMP) is anticipated to be presented to the City Commission in early 2027, with construction expected to begin in the summer of 2027. 01:33:03 Daniel Veitia raised concerns about the anticipated parking impacts and emphasized the importance of timely communication with the community regarding parking and project impacts. David Gomez responded that the city is exploring parking alternatives, including coordination with nearby developments such as the Deauville, and will continue evaluating additional options. 01:34:20 In response to a question from Daniel Veitia, Maria Cerna reported that the Arts in Public Places Project will be presented to the Design Review Board (DRB) in April. Marine Patrol Facility 01:34:50 Maria Cerna reported that bids have been received, and the award recommendation will be presented to the City Commission next week. Construction is expected to begin in late May with completion anticipated in the summer of next year. G.O. Bond Oversight Committee Meeting Minutes No. 60 March 12, 2026 Page 7 of 8 23rd Street Improvements 01:36:02 Mohsen Abu Shaaban reported construction is approximately 80–85 percent complete. Currently, work is focused on 3 main activities, including drainage improvements at Park Avenue and 22nd Street, traffic signal work at Collins Avenue and 22nd Street, and concrete work along 22nd Street. He mentioned that there are project delays resulting from underground utility conflicts and moratoriums during Art Week. Substantial completion is now projected for mid-June, with final completion in mid-July. Bayshore Park 01:38:31 Regarding the punch list items, Bryan Niedelson reported that wayfinding signage has been installed; netting at the deck opening near the linear water feature has been installed; and lake ozone and circulation system is almost complete. . Landscaping and remaining punch list work are expected to continue through the end of the month and possibly into April. 01:39:37 In response to Karen Rivo’s question about the status of the entrance to the playground, Maria Cerna responded it requires redesign and will need to go through the permitting process before construction can proceed. 01:41:03 Andy Chabassol suggested incorporating interactive or educational elements (e.g. QR codes or storytelling features) to enhance the visitor experience. 01:41:55 In response to Karen Rivo’s concerns regarding the availability of restroom facilities near the playground, David Gomez stated that the Scott Rakow Center is making their restrooms available for use. 01:42:50 Isaac Kessler suggested maybe figuring out a way to create access to those restroom facilities directly from the park. 01:43:02 Jason Koslowe added that public restrooms are always a complex issue, especially near a children’s area, because of security issues. He also suggested exploring the creation of a conservancy or similar entity to support park operations, maintenance, and fundraising, particularly to address potential future funding gaps. Donald Goldberg expressed support for bringing this idea forward for discussion at the Parks & Recreation Board. Stop the Pause Ordinance Update 01:47:59 David Gomez reported that the Neighborhood & Resiliency Committee is generally supportive of the “Stop the Pause” initiative but have some concerns regarding community input during the development of the project. Concerns stemmed largely from a misunderstanding of design phases and terminology. Their concern was that they wouldn’t be able to voice their opinions beyond the 30% milestone. He explained that significant design decisions typically occur at earlier stages (30%), while later stages, such as 60% and 90%, focus more on technical documentation. The city will continue to refine the language in the Ordinance, so that the public understands that opportunities for input still exist throughout the process. G.O. Bond Oversight Committee Meeting Minutes No. 60 March 12, 2026 Page 8 of 8 01:49:46 In response to a question from Andy Chabassol, David Gomez reported that one of the things he committed to doing is to set some way of more emphatically communicating the milestones and in an official way. 01:52:12 Daniel Veitia shared he believes the City provides ample opportunity for the community to be aware, be involved, and give opinions throughout the entire process. He noted that at the Design Review Board (DRB) hearing for the 72nd Community Complex project, there were very few people. And that would’ve been the place to offer design input. 01:52:36 Karen Rivo raised concerns that many residents may not be fully informed about project updates or how to provide input. She noted she requested to meet with the City’s Communications Department and discuss ideas to improve communication on G.O. Bond projects. 01:53:58: Dana Martorella suggested implementing regular updates, such as a quarterly newsletter, to better inform the public. 01:57:49 Jason Koslowe added that, compared with other municipalities in Florida, the City is highly transparent, and there is a lot of information available - the question is whether people choose to pay attention to it. The website has a lot of information, and he is supportive of funneling that information into a concise bulletin without creating a significant additional workload for staff. Discussion continued. VIII. Community Outreach (Refer to pages 32-33 of the Agenda & Handouts Packet on the G.O. Bond website). 02:00:00 Thais Vieira reviewed upcoming openings including the Collins Park Rotunda and Flamingo Park Softball Field. 2:00:48 Jason Koslowe requested that the Chase Ave/34th St Shared Use Path Project be brought back for discussion at the next meeting. Although the project has been cancelled, he believes some version of it may return in the future and would like the Committee to have an opportunity to provide input. IX. Public Comment No one from the public requested to speak. X. Adjournment 02:03:36 Chair Karen Rivo adjourned the meeting.