--------- Good morning everyone. Welcome to our January council meeting. Today is Thursday the 15th of January. The time is now 10:16 a.m. We apologize for the late start and I hereby call this meeting to order. A reminder to please silence your phones. Um if you must take
a call, we kindly ask that you please step outside and and maintain a respectful atmosphere. Madam clerk, please call the role. >> Councilwoman Corinoso, >> present. Counciloman Marine Porz is not here. Councilman Rafa Pedo >> present. >> Vice Mayor Dakabra >> present. >> Mayor Christie Fraga
>> present. >> Mayor Yuakor. >> Thank you very much. Please rise for the pledge of allegiance led by Councilman Piggo. >> Allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands. One nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and
justice for all. Okay, we will now have our invocation, our first of the year um by Nando Kintterero from WWJD. >> Hello, good morning. >> Morning. >> It's uh Oh, my name is Nando Cantero representing WWJD Church. It is a
privilege. It is a blessing to be here no on any meeting but the first one of the year. I am very happy to be here. very honored. And as I was reflecting on what God had to bring today, praying,
I I really came to a conclusion that 2025 was a good year. I welcome my firstborn. He's nine months now. So, it's been quite a crazy year, but 2026, it sounds even more promising. I will be
turning 30 years old. It'll be 20 years since I first moved to Dorado, since my family came to the US and we came and we've been here in Dorado since then. So 2026 marks a very
nice numbers, very solid decades. But as much as 2026, we all feel very encouraged. We all feel very positive. We all feel very excited to what's to come and and we pray and we ask God for guidance and and
for his blessings to come to each one of us. I couldn't get 2025 out of my mind because individually it was very hard on the day-to-day. It was a now objectively looking back, beautiful year, probably
one of the best ones, but also one of the most challenging ones. And on the day-to-day, I felt like there was a lot of unanswered prayers. And usually when you pray and when you go to God, you expect to get a a response right away.
You expect to get something in return fairly quick. And most of the times I felt very alone, very left alone by God. Not by my surroundings, my family were there, all my community was there, but
by God directly. So, so it was tough, a lot of unanswered prayers, but as days and weeks passed by, as I looked back, it was very clear that God had a better plans. that all those closed doors just meant bigger
ones opening and 2026 will bring some challenges because as human beings that we are we know life will bring challenges not because you trust and believe in God means that everything will be perfect and that is
exactly what got me through 2025. Now looking back I could say like I mentioned one of the best years I have my my firstborn. He's beautiful. He makes me a better person every single day. And I thank God for that and I thank God for the year and all the
growth that it that it brought. But at the same time this verse came to mind which is a one of my go-to verses from a lot of years ago and it says Ephesians 3:201. Now to him who is able to do
immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine according to his power that is at work within us. To him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all all generations forever and ever. Amen. So that verse is is very
straightforward. As much as we believe we may have the right intentions, the right ideas, the right plans, at the end of the day, God's will will prevail. And I my desire is only for our elected officials and
the ones to come. and thank thanking also the ones that have been in office because the what city of dra has been we can only say that it has been glory to god because it has been a a welcoming community for myself and my family
God willing my c my son will be here in 20 30 years I won't be counting 20 but 30 40 years myself and and I just ask God to bless you guys to protect you and your families, keep blessing you and
just encourage you guys to keep seeking God, depending on him. And at the end of the day, if we do this and ask through him, he will only do things even better. So if God has been doing such a great job in the city, just imagine what he
could do if we go all in and pray to him and really rest in him and depend on him. So I will just lead a small prayer to conclude. Please bow your heads and close your eyes. Lord heavenly father, we thank you for this uh day, for this
council meeting, for this first council meeting of the year. And we don't only put this one in your hands, but all the ones to follow this year. God, please guide our elected officials. Please guide every single decision to be made. We ask you to be the priority in every
single word that is to be said, every action to be made. And please protect our elected officials. Bless them, protect them, prosper them in every single way possible. And as well to our citizens and every single person that
has dra as its home. Please Lord, we give you everything. We rest in you. We put all our doubts, our worries in your hands and we give the glory to you for everything that you've done and for everything that you will do. We recognize you today as our Lord and
Savior. We thank you for Jesus why you sent him here to died for us. We thank you for that gift of eternal life because we recognize him as our Lord and Savior and we know that he resurrected on the third day. We thank you for this meeting and please as I mentioned before
you be the one leading this meeting always every single month in the name of Jesus we pray. Amen. >> Amen. Thank you Nando and thank you for serving also on our um faith-based advisory board. Appreciate you. Okay, we're going to move on to our agenda
order of business. Uh go ahead and start with the city manager's office. >> Good morning, mayor and council members. Um yes, we will be putting item 6A. Um that's the item with the agreement with Miami date county fire rescue. We um the county attorney is going to be making some changes and we'll bring it back
once that process is complete. Thank you. >> Thank you very much. Mr. City Attorney, do you have anything? >> Good morning, Madam Mayor. I had nothing. >> Okay, Councilman Batal. >> Yes, mayor. I'm pulling item 6G for discussion.
>> 6G. >> Correct. >> Okay, Vice Mayor Cabra. No, thank you. >> Okay, Counciloman Reynoso. >> Good morning, Mayor. >> No, I won't be pulling anything. Thank you. >> Okay. Thank you very much. I'm going to
go ahead and I'm going to pull item 6D for discussion, but I'm going to do it in the evening if that's okay. And then we're going to go ahead and pull off item 9D off the agenda. A email was circulated this morning to all of you. The applicant has asked to um take the item off and we'll hopefully maybe be
coming back in the future. Okay. Anything else before we move to public comments? Madam Clerk, you're good. Nothing for you. Okay. All right. We're going to go ahead and open the public comments portion of our meeting. You will now be able to approach the podium for public comments. Each speaker
will have three minutes to address any item on this agenda or anything related to the city of Dural. Please begin by stating your name and address for the record. to ensure you are registered uh with the city clerk. We will first hear from those who are pre-registered, followed by any walk-in speakers. Once
they have spoken, I will then announce that any walk-in speakers can speak for any final comments. As a reminder, in accordance with city of Dorado code of conduct, we ask that your remarks please be respectful, courteous, and in an orderly manner. Personal attacks, offensive language, and disruptive
behavior will not be permitted. Let's work together to keep this a productive and constructive conversation for all. Okay, madam clerk, do we have any pre-registered speakers? No, we do not have any pre-registered speakers. So, anyone who would like to speak on any item on the agenda or anything gerine to this council, please approach the podium. This would be your reasonable
opportunity. Okay, one last opportunity. Are we approaching? No. Okay. All right, being none, the public comments portion is now closed and I need a motion on Madam Clerk, if you could please read the items on the consent agenda and then I need a motion on the consent. >> Yes, madam mayor. It'll be all of the
items on section six with the exception of 6 A, 6 D, and 6G. >> Okay, I need a motion. Motion to approve by Counciloman Reynoso. >> Second. >> Second by Councilman Pinto. Favor say I. >> I. Madam Clerk, the let the motion reflect a unanimous vote.
>> I now need a motion on the minutes. Motion >> second >> motion by Councilman Pinedo to approve the minutes and second by Councilwoman Reynoso. All in favor say I. >> I. >> Motion is approved unanimously. >> All right, we'll move into presentations. Madam clerk,
>> item 8A, keep draw beautiful business award. >> Mr. Del Toro, welcome. Okay. Good morning, honorable mayor, vice mayor, members of the council, madame manager, Mr. Deputy Manager, Mr. City Attorney, Madame Clerk, Danny Dooro,
code compliance director. We are pleased to kick off 2026 by recognizing Am Emirate Bank for their outstanding commitment to keeping the route beautiful. The property for which they are being recognized is located at 2500 Northwest 87th Avenue. Amir Bank
has been in the city of Dorado for 26 years. This property is approximately 46,000 square feet and the business has six employees. Amir Bank is the largest community bank headquartered in Florida and is dedicated to delivering the most personal and exceptional service to help
you achieve your financial goals. Some of the recent improvements include painting of the building to maintain a clean and vibrant appearance, weekly landscape maintenance to help enhance the parking lot and building, and a facilities team which ensures any maintenance issues are corrected
promptly. It is with great pleasure that we name amarant bank for the keep the beautiful business award for their continued efforts to keep the beautiful. Madame Mayor and Council, here to accept the award on behalf of the property is the assistant vice president Vivana Opina
and her team of Diana Valdez, Martha Barbetti, and Edwin Mahia. >> Are they here? >> Yes. Okay, please join us. >> Would you like to say anything? Let me
>> Good morning everyone. We're very honored for this award and for the opportunity to service the Dural uh market. It has been dear to our heart and it's an instrumental uh market for our business. Um we have much love for Dural and we're honored to be servicing
you and we hope to continue servicing um all of you. Thank you. >> Thank you. Thank you for continuing to invest in our community. Please come up for a Thank you. You want to come up with Fabulous. Okay, we'll move on to our
discussion items. Madam clerk, >> item 9A, a resolution of the mayor and the city council of city of D Florida authorizing the restructuring of parks and police for kids, Inc., providing for reconstitution of the boards the directors, revision of the foundation bylaws and reigning the foundation's purpose and mission providing for implementation incorporation of recitals on an effective date. Members of the
council, um I brought this forward um as you all know I've been working with parks and police for kids now for the past year. We had our first um mayor and chief gala benefiting parks and police for kids. We had a a golf tournament raised over $300,000 in benefit uh of
this organization to be able to provide more funding for the programs that it has um provided. Um after much consideration and discussion um you know as we prepare for what may come have from the state with property tax reform, we feel that it would be um prudent to
restructure this organization being that we have now proven that we can raise quite a significant amount of money to be able to benefit the community um and restructure this organization to be the NGO arm of the city. So the nonprofit arm of the city
uh possibly in the future even reallocating general funds into from general funds to this organization privately funded um opportunities like the CBO grants and the PTA grants and you know lessen the burden on tax
dollars on on our taxpayers. Right now, a lot of these subsidized programs are funded through our general fund. And I think it would be beneficial and fiscally responsible to look at continuing to fund raise in this organization and use this arm to be able
to fund um these programs. It will take some time, but I think we need to restructure Parks and Police for Kids to truly meet the needs of the community on the nonprofit end. Um and to that end I decided to bring this forward. The board
that has been there is wonderful. This is not a reflection of them. They did a great job. They were great with us um in our they were very supportive in my crazy idea to try and put together a gala and golf tournament in three months to fund raise and we were able to do
that. And so I want to publicly thank them for their service. They again have been wonderful. Um so this is in no means a reflection of their work. Um this is really in in an in an effort to restructure this board so it has better
benefits to our community and gives us the ability to free up general fund money for what it should be done for which is municipal services um but not cutting our subsidized programming. So uh with this with the support of you all today we will bring the parks and police for kids board back to the the council.
we will serve as the board to do the restructuring. Um I do have some ideas on how that restructuring will happen. So in our first PP4K board meeting once this happens I will bring forward um as the board the ideas of how we will restructure and move forward to make
this a benefit for all. So um if if you all are willing to indulge in in this new endeavor that's what this item will do. If anybody has any questions I'm happy to answer them. I worked with Lorenzo on this as well. So, if there's any questions, this is not the first time this would be done. We did this before where the council served as the
board to do some restructuring. So, this is really just uh there's precedent on on this being done before. Any questions? >> Yes, I actually have some comments. >> Vice Mayor, >> we're going to be getting a copy of the uh the new restructure, the bylaws, if
there been going to be any changes and when is that going to happen? >> That will happen when we sit as the board because only the board can do the restructuring and changes. So once we sit as the board of the organization, we will be bringing forward an a complete restructuring um and the um how we will
move forward the potential ideas for the organization and what it will fund and the programming. >> Now that you're proposing this, what is your vision different from what it's doing? >> I think I was pretty clear in stating that the intent of the fundraising for so the way this this pro nonprofit has
been functioning is that it never actually raised money. it would only take money from our general fund to program. Um, and so the idea would be that it actually becomes a nonprofit of the city so we can fund raise and move subsidized programming to that organization. So that would be the new
idea of the board. >> My understanding it is a nonprofit. >> It is a nonprofit. It would continue to be a nonprofit, but it was never functioning like a nonprofit >> because my my rational on this is that if we have a board that is independent that it is based on residents of the
city. These are people that live here, people that know the community that they wanted to do, you know, service to the residents. That would not uh limit us to be able to help them to get funding. So, we're going to be the one managing and
not allowing the community, the residents to be able to bring up ideas and for them to manage something that we can be bringing funds. It's the same thing that Luigi did on 20 2012. So, at that time, he did the same thing. he dissolved it
the uh the council took over something that I don't agree I think that is a committee that should be run by residents and we are here to support them and there's nothing that limit us to be able to help them to get funding >> so let me clarify because I think you misunderstand what's happening and also I think you misunderstood what happened
in 2014 or 2015 when this was done the only way to restructure the bylaws of this organization is for us to serve as the board to do that I'm not taking it away from the residents. We're bringing it in to restructure it and then we will we will put it back out to be an
independent organization again if that is what this body so chooses once we do the restructuring. So that's what's currently going to happen now for many many years and you can go back and request all the financials and take a look. This organization never raised funds. It was funded with general fund
money. The only organization that gave this nonprofit money was the PGA. That's the only money that was ever raised. And it wasn't raised. It was basically a gift that was given. No one from this council ever took an opportunity or ever took the initiative to raise money for
the kids in our community. I was the first one to decide to do that along with my two colleagues, Councilman Reoso and Councilman Pinedo, who helped me fund raise for the event we had this year where we raised over $300,000 of private funds. Excuse me, I have the floor at this time. private funds to be
able to do more things in our committee without using taxpayer funds. So after looking at that and seeing its success, the decision has been brought forward so that we can all have the conversation and move on and do this better next year
and raise more money and actually make this a nonprofit so that the city can continue to provide programming, grants, subsidized opportunities for our community without using taxpayer money. We will use nonprofit and fundraised
funds on the private sector to be able to do that. However, with the structure it currently has, we're very limited to how we can do it. It was very um very difficult to actually go out there and put together this event with the current structure we have. So after much
discussion with the administration with um legal, it was decided to bring this forward so that we could restructure it. So moving forward, not just our council, but future councils could help the board that will be in place fund raise. The
way it is right now, it's very difficult to do it because it was never the intention of this nonprofit, but it is the intention, my intention to fund raise for the kids in our community. So that is what we're doing here today. So I appreciate your comments. I don't think you necessarily understand um what
we're trying to do. And in 2015 or 2016, I believe when this was done, it was for the same purpose, but it never really got restructured to be what it should have been. So, we're going to make sure to fix it this time. So, that for future it is doing its job. >> First of all, I do understand, but I
also have questions. Can I have a I can I ask a question to the uh city attorney >> if I may? >> Yes, go ahead, please. >> So, you're tell can this be restructured having the actual board? Can this is something that can be talked with the board that is sitting there and
restructure any idea that we may wanted to bring. >> So the current board does have uh authority to be able to make uh decisions for the organization. That being said, the way that this
organization and its its intent was to be an arm of the city of five independent 501c3 to use city funds and city resources to be able to carry out a lot of these programs. You are the governing board and body of of the city.
So, it makes sense if you want to align both what the city mission is and the board to have the you you as a governing body make those changes. It it kind of makes sense. And then in the future you can bring on obviously as the community to to participate once you have it
aligned with kind of what are what are your goals going forward. My question and I and I guess that you're answering to to me yes that if we like what how we do with other committees we can sit down with them tell them what is our vision
and they will work also and we can sit down and we will be able to restructure through them or they can also restructure based on our vision >> is it possible yes or no >> it's possible I'm not sure >> it can be done no but it can be done
>> yes it can be done through them like we go and have. So that's my question. So we don't need to dissolve the board in order to have our vision brought to them and that they can execute it. >> The only thing I would say on that you you're you're right with what you're
saying. >> Yes, I he can. >> Yes. >> But I I believe from my understanding and and and speaking with the mayor, taking a look at uh you know, kind of the history of this organization and speaking with the administration is that this board was really created to carry
out these programs. not really to do a fundraising activity, which is I believe what the vision of the mayor is in bringing forth this item. >> When I was there serving as the as the vice chair, yes, we were doing activities to be able to raise funds. Okay. Yes, that was part of it. That was
what we were that was the intent that was something that we were actually doing at that time. So that's why that's why my question that I don't see the rationale in dissolving it when actually we can sit down with those residents that live here in the city that we can actually work with them. We don't
there's no limitation for us to to tell them when many of them actually my appointee is really sad. She actually told me I've been serving for so many years and now I've been I've been just told you know what you're not going to be part of this board anymore. So that
that's my that's my clarification that >> my and I do understand because you're saying that I don't understand I do understand how it's been run because I was chair vice chair from that committee for for a few years is that I don't see
the need that we need to dissolve it if we can sit down with them and we can go and work with them the same way that you've been doing it on raising funds and for the other council members members, they can keep doing that. And if you have a vision, we just have to sit down like all the other committees,
but the difference is that this one does have managed money compared to the other ones. That's the only difference from the other committees from the city. So that's those are just my comments. I don't agree on the solvent when we can actually sit down with those residents
that they greatly has given hours of their time volunteering on being able to help with this committee. Okay. Are you are you are those complete your comments? >> So, I would check the bylaws, council, because the board cannot change the
bylaws. They cannot change the bylaws. It's in the it's and and I would read it again because they're not allowed to change the bylaws. It's very clear because we as a city don't want the committees to be able to change the bylaws. To my understanding, that's why we had to bring it back. Correct.
Because they cannot change the bylaws. Correct. They cannot change the vision of the or the mission of the organization. Only we can. >> Exactly. They bring it to us, they present it, and then we vote. >> But we're the ones presenting the difference. So, I understand what you're what you're saying. And
>> No, you don't. No, I I do understand what you're saying, but unfortunately for the restructuring we're doing for this for for the future of this organization, it makes more sense for us to be the ones to make the big decisions on how
this will proceed. So, that's the item on the agenda. You're welcome to have your own vote, but it's very clear in the bylaws that no board no board of the of of the city whether it's it's this board or any board can change the bylaws
or the mission of that committee or that board. Only we can do that. And so they could come and present to us, oh, we would like to change the structure of this committee and then we can make the decision to do that. But at the end of the day, the decision lies with us. And so what makes the most sense in the
restructuring that we're going to do here is that the board comes to us to be able to make the big decisions and ma manage the future outcome of this organization only because it manages a lot of funds that
are beneficial to the community. So I understand that you're in agreement. Your member of the board is more than welcome to serve in the future again when the board is restructured. Again, this is not dissolving the PP4K board. It's only making us the board while we
restructure the functions of the organization being now that I am we are putting a lot of effort into going out and fundraising for this community. So, I understand that it had never been done before, but I've put in a lot of time and energy to make sure that we're not
using the taxpayers dollars to fund raise and do things for for our subsidized programming. So, >> Madam Mayor, if I can make a point, >> you're absolutely 100% right. It is in the bylaws that this board, just like any other committee, you are the governing body, and that's what I was trying to make that point that you are
the governing body of the city. So, anything that dealing with funds, you're the ultimate say. Uh and and of course anybody any of these meetings and I just want to make a point since we are all subject to public records uh and and sunshine they're all sunshine so the community will still have the opportunity to come and give their
comments and their ideas. >> Yes. Thank you. All right. Any other questions through the mayor? >> Yes. Council me. I understand that some members of this council have a problem with efficiency and it's very clear now, but I'm completely on board with um this new
proposed um restructuring that needs to happen for a better use of people's time to be able to fund raise, get money for programs that are absolutely needed in our community. So, it's very hard for me
to sit here and listen to discussions that are so opposed to things that benefit our community, but um you can count on my support and then I would like to present a motion at this time. >> Okay. Thank you, Counciloman Reynoso. Motion by Councilwoman Reynoso. >> Second.
>> Second by Councilman Pinedo. Madame Clerk, please call the role. >> Thank you. >> Motion to approve made by Councilwoman Reoso. Seconded by Councilman Pino. Counciloman Reoso. >> Yes. >> Councilman Pedo, >> yes. Vice Mayor, >> no. >> Mayor, >> yes.
>> All right. Thank you very much. We will call a meeting of the board uh in the next couple of weeks. Thank you. >> All right. Next item. Item 9B. A resolution of the mayor of the city council of the city of Dal Flora approving the co-designation of Northwest 92nd Avenue from Northwest
33rd Street to Northwest 25th Street. I'm Maria Kora Machaloway providing for implementation incorporation of recitals in an effective date. Okay, Councilman Bonito, this is your item. >> Thank you, Mayor. Uh, mayor, colleagues, members of the community. First of all, I just want to say thank you to everyone
that that is here this morning, not only from our, uh, Venezuelan community here in Dorado, but I know from other places too. I first of all, I want to recognize uh, the group vente, which is Maria Machado's organization. Thank you for
being here. I know there are other political leaders from Venezuela there have to leave the country as well. They're here today. So, thank you for for being here. Uh we have Grand Loia the Venezuela Group. Thank you for being
here as well. And before I go over the item, I also want to recognize uh Mar Carmen Davila. She's a South Florida district director for Senator Riscott. Thank you for being here. I also would like to recognize the
elected officials that have sent their support to this particular item starting starting with Miami Day County Mayor Levin Cava, Miami Day County Tax Collector Daryl Fernandez, Miami Day County Supervisor of Elections Alina
Garcia, Miami Day County Sheriff Rosie Cordero, Office of Senator Rott, and Well, >> thank you. >> And the Venezuelan America Republican Club.
So, I want to say thank you to not only these elected officials, but also the organizations that have expressed their support for uh designating the Maria Machado's way. Today I bring this item forward not only as a
councilman but as a Venezuelan American and as someone who carries in his heart the story of millions of people who have lived without freedom for far too long. The route is not just a city on a map. It is a place of refugees, opportunities
and hope. It is a it is the home to the largest Venezuelan community in the United States. families who left everything behind in search of liberty, dignity, and a future for their children. That is why co sponsoring the
co designation of northwest 92nd Avenue between the streets of 25th and 33rd as Maria Korina Machado way carries such deep meaning and especially today that by coincidence Marina is already in
Washington DC for the first time in years meeting with uh President Trump. This roadway running parallel to the United States Solder Command symbolize more than a street name. It represents
courage in the face of persecution, conviction in the face of intimidation, and an unwavering belief that democracy is worth defending no matter the cost. For more than 26 years, Venezuela has endured oppression and the systematic
dismantling of democratic institutions. Throughout that time, Aragorina Machado has stood firm, but her leadership took on even greater significance during the July 28, 2024 election when she played a
decisive role in exposing the Maduro's regime's abuse, irregularities, and attempts to undermine the will of the Venezuelan people. At a moment when truth was under attack and fear was being used as a political weapon, she
shows transparency, accountability, and courage by confronting the regime and bringing international attention to what was taking place. She w she once again gave voice to millions who were being silenced and reaffirmed that democracy
cannot exist without truth. Her leadership and moral clarity have transcended borders. She has become a symbol of resi resistance, hope, and determination not only for Venezuelans inside the country, but for those of us
in the diaspora who continue to believe in a free and democratic Venezuela. This item is deeply personal for me, but is also collective. It belongs to every Venezuelan family in our city and to every resident, no matter where you're
from or political views, who believe in liberty, justice, and the rule of law. Today, Dal has the opportunity to send a clear message not only to the county, to the state, but to the country as well. one that
rise above politics and ide ideology, that freedoms matters, that human rights matter, and that those who stand for democracy will not stand alone. With faith in the future, we trust that one
day soon, we will help witness the rebirth of a free, democratic, and prosper Venezuela. some of the mayor colleagues, I certainly respectfully ask for your support of this item. But before uh we do that as well, I know
that um Marie Carman from Senator Riscott office would like to say a few words if you don't mind. >> Yes, of course. >> Thank you. >> Thank you. >> Good morning, mayor, Vice Mayor, members of the council. It's an honor to be here
and represent Senator Scott and his office. The senator is currently in DC representing us and doing the work of the Senate as we elected him to do. He says hi. And he wanted me to be here to express his continued support for Venezuelans in Dorado and throughout the
state of Florida, but also his support for freedom and democracy in Venezuela. I'd also like to share that our office is here to serve you, the city of Dural, its residents, in anything that you guys may need that's federally related. Thank you. >> Thank you.
>> Thank you. And also, Madame Mayor, we have Lisbet Garcia on behalf of Bente organization, which is Marina's Machado organization would like to say a few words. I know Maria Teresa Moren still on her way. She's gonna try to make it, but
you're here. So, we need we need to have a translator translation. I can do it. >> Okay. Good morning. We are very pleased to be here. We are very thankful all the authority Christopha and all the mayors
to have a name of a street is very important but but to have a name of ge geographic situation is is more important. Seemos. Okay. To have a name of Maria is very important because dignify our human
right, respect and our democracy and freedom. represent that our neighbor and the foot of regeneration. Can connect with all the freedom, all the the courage of the liberty of the
values. does represent that future generation can recognize in Marina Machado a woman of value and future recognition. We are very thank thankful with all
the the authorities in Doral because we have a a democracy recognized democracy with Marina Machal. See, we are very thankful and we recognize that all the world Cuba and all the situation not only in Venezuela that all
the world recognize that we are living and we are doing for generations. We are very thankful for for all you do. Thank you Christie Fraga. Thank you visor. Thank you Nico Reoso. Especially thank you Rafael Pino because you're
Venezuela and you are a man of God. Thank you very much all of you. >> Thank you very much. Thank you. Thank you, Mayor. And once again, I just want to say thank you to these elected officials once again that they're not here
obviously today and they couldn't make it, but they send their their not only messages directly to to me once again, Miami Day County Mayor Levin Cava, Miami Day County Tax Collector Dale Fernandez, the supervisor of elections, Lena Garcia, sent her letter, uh chair, Miami
Day County Sheriff Rosie Cordo expressed her support as well. Uh we have the office from Senator Riscott here present the Venezuelan American Club Republican Club as well Grand the Venezuela Group and obviously all these leaders that you have here that are part of our community. I also would like to
recognize uh Mr. Carlos Ortega which has suffered political persecution for a good number of years not only for by the Chavez and Madur regime he's part of our community too. So, thank you for
Thank you for being here. >> Thank you, mayor. Yes. >> Thank you, Councilman. Uh, any comments? >> Yes, Councilwoman Renoso >> through the mayor. >> Yes. Well, I may not be Venezuelan, but I am Cuban Puerto Rican. And my grandparents and my mother and my aunt
left Cuba many, many years ago, and they came to this country to have the future that they have today, to have the future that I have, and my children have because of their sacrifices. And that's not to say that I am married to a Venezuelan, a Marakucho, in fact, for
those that don't know. So, I get extra points there. counts. >> And the blood that runs through the veins of my children is Venezuelan, is Cuban. And it's been an honor to be able to represent the Venezuelan community during this time. I think everything
happens for a reason. The timing of God is perfect. And as I've said in many interviews before, what has happened has turned the page from hope to now a process. A process that's going to guarantee freedom, that's going to
guarantee many people the opportunity to be reunited with their families, to have peace, to have democracy, where the voice that many have not been able to share has been denied by horrible, horrible people in that country. So the
future of Venezuela is a future of democracy. It's a future of peace. It's a future of reunion. And again, I'm so glad to be able to be here representing this community during this time in history. And I know that God has his hands in Venezuela. And all the best
things are yet to come. We have to keep fighting. We have to keep our eye on the goal of freedom and democracy, but it's going to happen. And I'm glad to be part of this council that is here to help and support the residents. It's not you
supporting us, it's us supporting you. And to be able to have that voice to connect with other municipalities, with our president, with other governments, and the eyes that are on Dorado right now, it's really such an amazing thing, an opportunity for us to be those that
lead the voices of those that don't have voices. So, it's our pleasure, our honor to be able to be representing all of you. And may God bless the country of Venezuela, the Venezuelan people that are here in the United States. I know in my heart everything's going to work out.
So, thank you. >> Thank you, Councilman. Um, I first would like to ask if I if you'd be okay with me co-sponsoring this item and anyone else who would like to join. Um, this is obviously a great um a great thing for our community. So, thank you for bringing it forward. Maria Machado is an
incredible woman that represents courage uh freedom, democracy, human rights, um you know, perseverance. Um and so not only is it an incredible um role model and something to a person to look up to by many young women in our community,
but um those who have had to flee Venezuela and even Cubans and Nicaraguans and everywhere and and and she was so rightfully given the Nobel Peace Prize for all these merits and all these accomplishments she's had. So, I think it's only fitting that in the
community where the largest diaspora um lives in the United States that a street be named after Maria Korina Machado. Um not just for her work um for peace and liberty in in Venezuela and in the world
fighting for democracy, but for her heart and her courage. Um, as it was stated before, I think it is a symbol that is incredibly deserving of future generations looking towards and learning
from. So, I I love that it's the street right in front of Zeral Central Park um but also abuts um southern command. >> I think it's very significant and therefore um I'm fully supportive of this. I think it's great. Um, I won't,
as Councilwoman Reoso said, we are here to support you, not the other way around, but you all have always been such a supportive community. And so, we are delighted to be able to do these small um but meaningful um gestures that show our compassion and
our um support for this community. So, thank you very much. Thank you, Councilman. Um, and I look forward to when we can unveil the name and hopefully >> very soon. >> Hopefully she will be here present with us to be
able to do that. >> The mayor, >> I say that cautiously, but it is it is our hope that Mariam Kina Machado could be here with us um as we unveil the street naming in her honor. So, thank you once again.
>> Yes, Vice Mayor would like to say something, too. Thank you so much uh councilman for bringing this up and I definitely would love to co-chair also uh your proposal. Uh we've been here in fighting against uh and supporting you all during this difficult period. So
many families that I have personally uh met friends that I consider also family that have gone through with so many difficulties. So, by that being said, I would like to uh motion uh to approval to approve of your uh resolution. Uh
Councilman. >> Okay. I think we can all be added as co-sponsors, the the three the four of us that are up here, if you don't mind, Councilman, you don't mind. Thank you. >> On behalf of all of us. Okay. We need a motion. >> Motion to approve.
>> Motion to approve by Vice Mayor um Cabra. >> I'll second. I just have a comment as Second by Councilwoman Reynoso. Go ahead. You want to say your comment? >> Oh, I I didn't thank my council member for bringing the item, so thank you. Of course, >> and the co-sponsor has been addressed. Yeah.
>> So, thank you. And I and I love the fact that we're honoring such an amazing woman. >> Yes. >> Absolutely. All right. So, >> mayor, there's a little technicality on the item. Uh we'll have to amend it to state Maria Gorina Machello path, not Maria Gorina Machello Way. >> Okay. >> So, if that's okay, I'll read the motion as that.
>> Yes. So it's motion motion to approve as amended to co-desate the road as Maria Cororina Machello path >> made by Vice Mayor Cavalra seconded by Councilman Reynoso. Vice Mayor >> yes. >> Council Reoso >> yes. >> Councilman Benedo >> yes. >> Mayor Frag. >> Yes. >> Motion passes. >> All right. Thank you very much.
Congratulations. Okay. If it's okay with my colleagues, we can take a quick 10-minute recess so we can say give, you know, just hug the members of the community, I'm sure, want to say thank you and then we can reconvene. Is that okay? Sure. >> All right. Uh, I need a motion to recess. >> Motion. >> Motion for a 10-minute recess. Second.
>> Second. All right. All in favor say I. I. Okay. We'll be back in 10 minutes. Let's try and keep it brief. Part: 2
microphones. >> Hello. There we go. All right. We're going to reconvene the meeting and take it back right from where we left off. Madame clerk, item 9 C. >> Item 9 C. A resolution of the mayor and the city council of the city of D, Florida approving the adoption of not through trucking ordinance along Northwest 112th Avenue between Northwest
25th Street and Northwest 29th Street and Northwest 27th Street between Northwest 112th Avenue and Northwest 108th Avenue providing for implementation incorporation of recitals and an effective date. >> Okay. Before I turn it over to Counciloman Pinato, um, can we have the sergeant-at-arms just make sure that they keep their voices out down there,
please, and the doors closed out of respect for the meeting. All right. Thank you very much, Councilman Pedato. This is your item. >> Thank you, Mayor. I bring this item forward not only because I have been receiving uh calls
and messages from residents but at the same time concerns parents concerns from uh in this particular case Dorado Academy uh during the drop off and pickup hours and
based on that I had the opportunity to speak to to the city attorney which by the way thank you for helping me on drafting this resolution and it is something that for quite some time we have been speaking about it especially uh when we have a schools located under
or around industrial inside industrial sections but I think it's time for us to take proactive actions and actually make the corrections that we have to make or the creation in this
case which is what I will be requesting an ordinance but it's because there has been an increase of incidents when it comes to and concerns as I mentioned before uh not only by uh residents parents and school administration as
well when it comes to the circulation of commercial trucks during the school hours in particular during the drop off and the pickup times. It has become evident that the area surrounding the RA Academy has experienced recurring and in some
cases accidents. These incidents have occurred on a consistent basis and have often involve students from the school or drivers passing by, parents passing by. The impact of these accidents have
been detrimental to our community and has reached a point where intervention by us is necessary. And in my humble opinion, it should be urgent. After conducting research and consulting with the city attorney, what I seek is to
establish a well-defined commercial trucking access hours that will restrict truck circulating circulation during school drop off and pickup times throughout the school week. The purpose of this measure is to mitigate the risk of future traffic incident incidents and
to prioritize the safety of our students, parents and pedestrians in the area. Of course, for the clarification of traffic rules, violations of possible citations will be established through a formal
ordinance. And this ordinance will clear clearly define restricted hours, designated zones, and relevant vehicle vehicular classifications. In addition to this implementation of this measure will be supported by a comprehensive public awareness campaign
carried out through coordinated efforts between the Dorado Police Department and public affairs department to ensure proper dissemination and understanding of these new traffic regulations. And the reason why, and after speaking to our city attorney and administration,
the reason why we're starting with Dorado Academy is certainly because it's the one, as you can see some of the pictures, the one that has been probably the more regular concerning uh school in the area, but we also have
hopefully in the future consider other schools that are located inside the industrial zones. again what will be if we move forward with this which I hope we do because it's for the well the
well-being of our residents especially our kids uh what we what I'm proposing is when it comes to hours is during the drop off hours between 7 and 8 and the pickup hours from 2 to three and again
this is only right now in the Dal by the Dorado Academy, 112th Avenue, between Northwest 25th Street and Northwest 29th Street and between 27th Street and 112th Avenue, between 112th
Avenue and 18th Avenue. So there's going to be a number of industrial businesses in that area that uh of course you know we're going to have to involve in in the conversation. But again hopefully we can
work this out in an amicable way that they understand the need of during these specific hours. Again from my recommendation will be from 7 to 8 especially as after speaking to the parents and the school administration 7 to 8 in the mornings and 2 to 3 in the
afternoon. >> Thank you Councilman. Um so if there's any other is there any questions? I I have a couple. Okay, I do have some questions because I was a little confused on I looked at this actually yesterday um at the map you mentioned
112 because right now as it states on the resolution 102nd Avenue between 27th and 25th is a residential it is a no through truck street because it's right in the middle of um Vanderbilt. Yeah. Uh,
this one will affect just the one on the middle and high school. >> It's the actual resolution says 102nd Avenue. So, it should be 100. I just want to make sure that we're It's 112 because the resolution reads 102nd Avenue between 27th Street and 25th
Street. >> That's correct, Mayor. There's a typo on the on the res. >> Okay. I just wanted to make sure. So we're looking at 112th Avenue, >> correct? >> And 108th Avenue. >> It should be 112 between 25th and 27.
>> 27 between 112 and 107 or 108. The frontage surrounding D Academy. >> Yes. Okay. So I just want to make sure we change that. >> Is this the new one? >> Oh, okay. I have the old vice vers. Yeah. >> Okay, perfect. I just because the one I
had said 102nd so I wanted to make sure. Okay. Um and then the when we bring this forward it would be for specific hours. My only concern with that area is and I know it is very dangerous and I've seen it forever and
unfortunately this is an industrial zone that the school is in is that we don't there's very few other access points to some of those businesses in that area. So, um I think we're going to get a little push back in the sense that if
they have a delivery that needs to get to them and that we are not there there's no other access point to them through that area, we may find ourselves, you know, kind of prohibited from from allowing them to get to their
destination at that time. That's what I've encountered in the past with no through truck zones. Yeah, I was going to say that no through really means any trucks that are not trying to get to their uh destination. So, they're just using that road to pass. >> So, there's other ways that you can go around. So, if someone's trying to get
to one of those warehouses that abut or adjacent still go through there, they can still do that. But, if they're just using the road to go through, which is what we're finding to cut through, that's what we'll be avoiding. I just want to clarify that for the residents because whenever they see a no through
truck sign it they almost have an an expectation that that means that there's no trucks going through there and that's not the case. We can't prohibit conduction conducting business, right? And that is an industrial area. So, you're going to still have trucks that
as long as they can prove that they're going to their final destination or a destination within their route within that area, they still have to utilize that because there is no Now, if there's another way to get there, then they're required to use that other way. But in looking at this area, it's very limited
to the roads that actually access some of those warehouses. So, I just wanted to put that on the record. I'm not opposed to it. I think that there's if there is some um relief that we can provide for safety um to the students and for ease of traffic in the area,
then I welcome it by all means. But I just think that sometimes there's an expectation for something that's a little unrealistic. I mean, at the end of the day, which is what I tell parents when they call me about some of that stuff, is you're in an industrial area. I understand the inconvenience. It's
horrible. And and the truth is that um with the viaduct opening also in that area the or the flyover it increased also some of the truck you know traffic in in that zone. So cuz it's one of the air it's one of the streets that leads
to the flyover um bridge to the turnpike. They don't have to go to 12 street anymore. >> Right. >> So um just wanted to put that out there. But yes, I'm I'm I'm in support. Um and I look forward to seeing an ordinance that we can make sure we're, you know,
we're we're careful and conscious of the surrounding businesses as well. >> Any other comments? >> Motion. >> Motion to approve by Councilwoman Reynoso. >> Second. >> Second by Vice Mayor Kabra. Yes, Councilman Pedo. >> Just just a quick comment and you're right. Uh the only thing we'll I mean I
think this is a and and I thank you I thanks my colleagues for for moving this forward. It's uh at least we're we're showing to the residents that we that we care about their concern >> and at the same time let's see how that
goes. I mean once we put that sign out there uh might be the first step and we might need to take additional steps looking forward uh depending how you know how we see how we get the reports from from the police department and and
I'm sure we're going to keep getting calls and pictures from residents but hopefully this will be a relief and and we can uh start with something in this particular area but again there are other schools >> that we will have to look into uh and
and apply the same regulation. >> Do the mayor. >> Yes. >> I think just continuing the comment that councilman Benedo said um you know as a council we do what is allowed or allowable for us to within the rights
and the and the powers that we have. So, I think this is a great example of of us doing the most that we can with the authority given to us to overlook and and and see if there's any positive change in protecting our children, helping with the traffic situation there
and and and it's really the most that we can do with the allowed um authority that we have. So, I'm in support of this. >> Thank you. >> And I think it's a it's um a point that we have to make for the residents to understand the limitations of what we can do as council here as well. >> Yeah. And with that with that being
said, I'll just mention also, you know, there was a time where it was put into our code um to further restrict schools opening up in industrial zones and that was we were preempted. >> We cannot restrict
>> schools opening up in these zones. So, um you know, a lot of families will say, well, why did that get approved there? Well, we're kind of our hands are kind of tied to limitations on that. So, it's something that we need to because when we take actions like this, sometimes it it just welcomes Tallahassee's
preemptive >> legislation, which is not what we want. So, we want to make sure that we um don't strangle free commerce. And so, that's very important. >> All right, Madam Clerk. Motion to approve made by Council Maros, second. >> Council Marinos, yes.
>> Vice Mayor Car, >> yes. >> Council Pedo, >> yes. Mayor Frago, >> yes. >> Motion passes. >> All right. Wonderful. All right. We pulled item 9D, so we're moving to 9E. >> 9E. Discussion. Proposed solar street lights northwest 82nd Street from Northwest 107th Avenue to Northwest 114th.
>> Madam City Manager. >> Yes. Good morning, Mayor and Council. Um, we have the public works director, Carlos Royo. He's going to speak to you regarding um this item um and the options that we have before us to for solar power or wiring for this
particular area. Thank you. Morning mayor, vice mayor, council members, city manager, city attorney, city clerk, members of the public, Carlos Aroya, polyware director. And so the polyworks department continuously looks for ways to improve
services and the city's infrastructure to provide the best possible level of service for the community. Northwest 82nd Street between 107 Avenue and 114 Avenue currently lacks property elimination. So as such the department commands to perform research on solar infrastructure for the possible
implementation of a solar street life pilot program along the corridor. While performing research the department was approached by two solar street light vendors from Roach Lighting America and sell solar offering their services and products. Proposals were requested from
both vendors to provide solar street light infrastructure for the mentioning corridor. Both vendors were asked to visit and analyze the site to provide a proposal. Each vendor performed a phototric analysis in the corridor and provided preliminary proposals based on their analysis and products
capabilities. Sales provided a proposal for 19 dual arm poles and 17 single arm poles for the area totaling 36 light poles. Front ro provided a proposal for nine dual arm poles and 14 single arm poles totaling
23 light poles. The preliminary total cost provided by sales is 366,000 approximately and the preliminary total cost provided by roach is 191,000 approximately. So staff is presenting this item as a discussion item to get
the council's input and direction and to allow both vendors to present their products and proposals from ro lighting and cell solar are here to present their equipment and proposals to provide solar streets light along the mention cor and to answer any questions that the council may have. So city staff seeks council
feedback and direction on whether to proceed and which approach to advance. So we have uh form roach they're going to be presenting first if I take the for presentation please.
Oh, excuse the >> Thank you, Carlos. Good morning, Madame Mayor, Madame V Mayor, Council Members. We are honored to be here. Thank you for having us. I'm Hosin Ben, CEO of Rash
Lighting America. I'm here with Elazar Austa who is the territory manager um for Florida. Um so we are uh here uh to discuss about uh street lights. We are a street light
manufacturer. Um and we are very focused on uh regulations and technical aspect of a street light. But the more we talk with communities, the more we talk with official, we understand that a street
light is way more than that. way more than a technical product, way more than u regulation. Um it's it's a product that bring safety. It's a product uh that has a big cost for municipality.
It's a product that brings equity between areas that have street lights and areas that don't have street lights. I'm from France. uh we uh and Europe uh we uh work a lot also with Africa. When you fly above Europe and when you fly
above Africa, you have one area of the hemisphere that is uh lit and the other area that is dark. So that's uh our product help to bring equity. So we see the same thing uh with communities and
municipalities. So we are dedicated our mission uh is to bring a product that is the most cost effective for municipalities that brings sustainability that brings equity um and brings of course uh safety. So this is
the mission of a forge. Um so I will just start with a very general presentation uh before going to the project in Dural. But we've been uh in US for about five years. The company
exists since 2010. We've been in US for about five years and we are working currently with 500 municipality across US. Um uh we started in uh very uh areas
very um in areas where there was a lack of uh electricity, lack of infrastructure like Native Americans areas and today we are in the heart of Las Vegas, in the heart of Los Angeles, Denver, New York. Um, and I'm very
surprised uh to see that Florida has very little uh solar street lights uh because you have everything that is needed. A lot of sun, a lot of irradiation, some rains to clean the solar panels which is very important. Um
and hopefully we are here to bring a little bit more education on this product. So, oh wrong direction. Sorry. So since we started about 18 months ago in Florida, we are currently working with about uh 30 counties and
municipalities. Um most of them are uh pretty much either on the north side of Florida, either on the south side of Florida. Uh but we had the opportunity uh uh to experience the
the weather in Florida, your storm. Um uh you had some issue with hurricanes. So we um we um are very uh aware of the issue that we can have here in Florida.
So why installing solar street lights? First, it's very quick and easy to install. A solar street light doesn't require combit. Does it doesn't require any wire. Um, and it takes about 20 minutes to install from the beginning. You plant it like a tree. So, you don't
need the utility. You don't need anything. You arrive, you dig a hole, five foot hole, you plant the light, you let uh the the cement dry, and the same night the light will work. So um it's
very uh reliable because it's not connected to any wires. There is no wires. There is no utility connected to it. Uh and of course because there is no utility um there is no bill linked with that. You acquire a street light. You are not paying any monthly bill
whatsoever. You are free. It's your street light. You generate your own energy to power your own street lights. And of course, it's sustainable because it's 100% solar powered by the sun.
So when it comes to Florida, um our poles have been rated for 180 miles per hour. So in case of god forbid there is very uh strong uh winds, we are very familiar with that. And uh our
system can uh resist uh to uh this type of storm. All our systems are connected. So we what we want to do is to be proactive. We don't want to have u the community come to us or come to you and tell you a
street light is not working. If a street light is not working, we have the information. Um instead, as you can see on the green dot, if a street light has an issue, if a street light is not working, it turn red. We know there is an issue with a street light and we see
if we can fix it uh from remote area remotely, sorry, or if we can fix it uh um or if we have to come on site. So when it comes uh to uh street lights,
there have not been much of innovation since Thomas Edison. And I'm saying that because since Tom, the way we bring uh uh electricity to a light is through a wire. What um we what we offer in our
system, it's a wirefree system. So um it's a solar panel that collect the energy during uh the day ch charge the battery uh during the day and during the night uh there is the the battery
activate uh the light fixture and you have the light needed at the intensity needed for u for the rest of the night 365 night a Yeah. So now if we uh um the way we do so when
the public works gave us the instruction on uh northwest 82nd uh street uh we perform the photometric study. So that's what I'm showing here. The street is obviously dark. We uh make some
simulation on how many lights and what's the height of the lights uh needs to be and we say okay we need 22 street lights with this model with this height and this will do the job as per the the
regulation for um uh for Dural Northwest 82nd Street. We offered a model called Opera which we uh suggest because of the area because of the trees and we try to offer
a very elegant model. Uh we call it with a color called queens and king. So it's it's the color kind of change uh depending on the day. If it's cloudy it's more bronze. If uh it's sunny, it's more towards the purple and it fits
perfectly with uh the northwest 82 second street. So this is a mockup um for the street what it would look like and I know the taste you know I can say it's beautiful or whatever we we suggest this and of
course we can make some adjustment based on on your test and I think we will share the information with you but pretty much uh it would look like this. It's very uh close to the to the reality. Um, and during the night
it's going to look like that with a 3,000 Kelvin warm uh light um with a lot of uniformity to to avoid some dark spot um
and to avoid to have lights that are too bright. um more lights toward the blue which is not really uh healthy. What is recommended by dark sky? It's uh to be close to 3,000 Kelvin, 2700 Kelvin. So
we we we offer that. That's it. I don't know if you have any question. >> Oh yes. >> Thank you. Good afternoon. So, what I wanted to say is that we um actually gave uh we gave Carlos the opportunity
to try one of these operas that we're going to be putting uh potentially if you guys want to in Northwest 82nd Street. And it's actually here uh in the back parking lot here at City Hall. So you you know after this you have the opportunity to go check it out and and see it in person and see it live to you
know and and the purpose of that was to really uh not only take you not have you guys take our word for it but really be able to have a proven concept and something that it's tangible for you guys to to be able to utilize and look at you know so thank you. >> Thank you. We'll hear from the other presentation and then we'll do questions
at the end. >> Okay. Thank you. >> If I take a put sales presentation please. Uh we have here Rafael. Well, first Mayor Fraga, council members, thank you for listening for
about our tailor proposal for the city of Dorado. >> Make sure you speak into the microphone, please, because it's hard to hear. >> Yes. Perfect. Well, who we are? We are a sell solar. We have been designing and engineering solar power solutions for many
industries from solar lighting to large solar generators. For example, as we speak, we are deploying today some solar generators huge for homeland security.
Erh Y cells, you know, in solar there's something that it's really important. One side doesn't fit all. So everything needs to be tailored according to the specifics of each location. There's a state regulations, there's FDOT
regulations and there are city regulations. You know that's why some of our you know principles is also you know we are a minority business enterprise. We are SBA. Our products are made in High
Point, North Caroline. You know, we are presenting a turnkey solution uh for you guys. This turnkey solution actually when we present a proposal, it goes a holy stuff. It's not just a
number. So all of our our proposals require engineers, local engineers that stamp the proposal that everything is compliant with FDOT that it's Florida Department of Transportation, but also we're taking in consideration
the lighting levels for this type of road that is a type road too. And also erh with the specifics of what the city is actually doing using and what is
safer for the for the you know the riders in the road and also for reducing liability for the city. So uh for this project what we uh did is that STL uh product is one of our
signature systems. So we can customize any type of luminary from bell lamp to cover style as we use also lithium batteries and you
know pretty much the systems will be you know confirmed with everything you know everything is designed that the size of the solar panel batteries and all that based on the solar radiation that you guys have here.
One of the things when when we as as I said before we we do the whole assessment when we not going to present a proposal what luminary the city of Dorado is using the most is using the guideway
series from lighting. So with that said our systems will incorporate that luminary into our into our system. Why? You know, aesthetically the whole city will look kind of the the same for maintenance
purposes for the parks and Rex people is an easier, you know, system for them to handle. So, as I say before, all of our proposal has been stamped
and approved by by Florida DOT to install in a roadway lighting. So, on on this proposal, we just not took in consideration a yes, we're going to do we're going to provide the lighting, so we're going to install it. That's not the case. We went through the
whole engineering stamp and all that. And with that said, we came with a a pre-cast foundation. That's what was approved and that's what you guys have through the whole city. It's not a direct burial system. H if
you guys see during the whole city h you know there there's different methods of installation. Direct burial pre-cast foundations and so on. Um we mentioned before here that they're going to dig a hole that is 5 foot and
put the pole on this specific case there. There is an stamp engineering drawing for resisting that 150 mph wind zone that we are that foundation is 7 ft by 30 in and that's what going to be in
the ground installed to sustain what do requires. So all this is just a stamp of the engineers and the foundations. Also something that it's important it is that this is a roadway project. With
that said, we need to take in consideration the safety for our drivers in the road. All of our systems have a are considering a breakable device. A breakable device. It is when a a
vehicle hits a pole that is common. All these light poles going to be in a boulevard than beside the road. The pole will break. That will prevent we will save lives with that. And also that will eliminate liability to the city in case
of an accident. If there's an accident and there's not a breakable device installed, the city will be liable for a because didn't follow the right guidelines. This is the breakable device.
H and if you guys see around the city, I believe that in the last 8 to 8 years, everything that you have installed use a breakable device. Here you will see same vehicle Honda Civic
hitting a pole h two people two woman dead the other one with breakable device that the vehicle not even got damaged. We also did oh sorry we also did our
photometrics presenting what for the specific road what if FDOT requires and that's why we came with a you know uh the amount of luminary that we're going to install our systems we also have a platform
manage management that platform management will give you the city members or the city who's going to be in charge of maintenance they're going going to be a able to see the health of the battery, how much solar collection we are receiving. Everything's going to
be GPS located and they are going to be able to control dim down or you know the whole project or an a specific light. If there's a neighbor that says, "Hey, this light is shining to my window." Hey, we're going to dim down that light. And
Carlos or his team can do it remotely from his office. So it's also you know this is just a little bit information about how it looks the system also it give you all the lamps how they are on off the deming you know all the information
also our systems because we do solar powered solutions also we can incorporate surveillance if you see in here there's one lamp taking a picture of another one that it's underwater water uh also something that it's important you know we have our local partner from
total electrical solutions they have been here in Dural 10 minutes from here uh for the last 14 years so our system complies with all FDOT regulations h is installed for taking in consideration
also the sandy the layer that you guys have here a direct burial pole it's not safe to install in these areas also that it's well no I think so this is our
proposal uh that we are present I would love some questions >> okay thank you very much both companies do we have any questions I'll start. I do have a couple. All right. So, um I did review the proposal
and the and the memo um presented by staff to take a look at uh what was uh what was being proposed first taking into consideration a traditional lighting um you know option right which
would be connect with hard wire FPL. I realize that this proposal or this um this estimate was done in 2021 um but to do 13 so this the proposal of a traditional hardwired corridor would
be 13 poles um at 228,000 assuming that's probably going to go up a bit and that has no infrastructure um basically cost associated with it which means the actual preparation of the groundwork possible easements all
that we would need. Right. >> That that example was a widening of 112 Avenue. So there was no sidewalks that you had to like repour any trees that had to be removed. That was just like virgin ground where that system was constructed.
>> And a full traditional lighting system, you would have a lot of ground work that would need to be done. So you're looking probably much higher cost and then the ongoing cost of FPL. >> Correct. Especially with the existing infrastructure in the area, the sidewalks, the major trees. So yeah,
>> so that's why solar was taken into consideration. >> Correct. And also it's faster the installation. >> Correct. Okay. So now looking at the two companies that have been proposed that you have had conversation with um to my understanding and I may say your company name wrong.
Fonor Fon >> is good. >> Fon. Okay. Fonar had an opportunity to install a pole which I've seen. I've gone out there and seen it myself. I've gone a couple of nights to take a look at it because this is something that I've taken an interest in for some time now. Um, was cells given an opportunity
to install a pole? >> We had some discussions about that. >> Was it installed? >> They haven't. >> Okay. Did >> it was last week, right? Last week or the week before? >> Yeah, we have last week. >> Okay. You had a conversation last week, but this poll has been installed for almost a year now. >> No, like like a month.
>> No, it's been much longer than a month. >> It's been a lot longer. It's been at least at least half a year. Yeah, like six months because I've been going out there looking at it for some time. >> Did we pay for for any of that? >> We did. Yeah, >> we did. >> Yeah. >> Okay. Why wasn't sales given an opportunity earlier on?
>> Because we had we had first approach from them and then we had uh sales approach us at a later later time. >> Okay. So, that's one of the things that I potentially may want to see come out of this. Okay. Um just so we have a clear distinction. The prices are not
that far off. Um, and that's a question I do have for cells. So, the the difference in in cost with cells is about $156,000, but what I noticed is that you're proposing much more illumination than for
>> Yes, Mayor Fraga. And it's not just that, it's also more luminaries and also it's the installation method that complied with everything that you guys are doing through the city. >> And that was my next thing. So, there was two things that stood out to me as well. We talked about FDOT regulation.
So the proposal that you all have is up to FDOT standards. >> Yes. >> Is yours up to FDOT standards? Do you have FDOT approval? >> Yes and no. >> Okay. I don't like that answer. It's a yes or a no. >> Okay. So >> please approach the podium.
>> Yeah. Thank you. So here's the thing. No one has FDOT approval because FDOT does not have an approval for solar street lights. Their only approval they have is for grid lights. So what we do is we
focus on their recommendation. If we have this type of road, we need to have this type of illumination on the ground. That's what we have done. We took um the the recommendation from FDOT for the
elimination on the ground and we submitted the design as is. This being said, this road north 82 northwest 82 street it's not an FDOT segment. So you don't have to follow their
recommendation and there is no specific requirement based you make the requirements. Actually you the city make the requirements. So a lot of municipalities in Florida follow the guidance and we have no reason not to not to follow the the guidance but there
is no solar street light company approved and I made two or three times the trip to Tallahassee to try to get something going. Uh no one has a solar street light approval as of today madam. >> Okay. Um so thank you very much. So, um,
that being said and understanding it's not an FDOT road, but it is a it is a hightraic road for us because it is in a highly dense residential area. And so, if there are standards that have higher safety measures, I want to follow them and it should be our policy as a city to
follow them. Whether it's an FDOT road and whether we need to meet those exact requirements or not, I want to meet the highest safety requirements. your first so your quote also has two installation options um which was a direct bore and then you included the pre-cast
foundation breakaway pole. So you can do one of the two. My understanding is the the your price couldn't be significantly less expensive because you offer the the direct bore option but but yes >> I mean it's here I see it. It's it's in
black and white. >> Can can I explain the difference between both? >> Yeah. So, >> so the one we have back here is direct bore. >> Yes. >> No, I I I know what the difference is. I'm familiar. >> So, we install uh we we install close to
10,000 solar street lights in US >> including highways for text dot like big highways. Um it's um this gentleman is is right. the breakaway uh system um the lack of
breakaway system in some poles can kill the people that are driving. But that's system that are overengineering, overengineered. We had close to 100 knockout on our street lights, they were direct bur. The reason why we direct B
it's because there is no wires on the ground. So you don't need to spend money on the concrete. You don't need to spend money on the breakaway. If your pole is thin enough, so when a car hit it, it breaks and I guarantee you it breaks. Um
you don't need that. And and today the the issue we are seeing in the traditional uh street light and that's where our job is very difficult is that a lot of technical people or whatever try to install a solar street light like
a grid light. It's different. It is different. Um and and and for us the putting a foundation putting uh the breakaway is just additional cost and it's useless. But if we don't want to be more king than the king and if the
customer ask us to do that uh we do it but that's not what we recommend as uh the solar street light manufacturer. >> Okay. So what you're saying is what I was saying you have two options. You you're recommending a direct bore. Yes.
>> That's why that's the the price you provided. >> Absolutely. >> And but you can do the pre-cast but raises the cost because it is a more intensive uh installation process. >> Absolutely. In our opinion completely useless to be honest
>> because of the type of street it is. >> Not because of the type of street because the pole will break anyway. If a car come and hit it, our pole is thin enough. The density, the thickness of our pole is thin enough where the the
the pole if you look at our poles compared to a traditional street light pole, they are way thinner. Traditional street light pole is about 25 in in diameters. Our like half of that. So
they will break. Um um and the the fact that we elevate a pole on a concrete base. This is the way we install grid light because we have to go through wires. You don't have this
wire restore or street light. You don't need that. >> What is the material of your pole? >> It's uh there are two different type of pole depending on the on the ground. You have aluminum poles or you have um uh stain sorry uh galvanized hot deep galvanized steel spores.
>> Okay. Let me ask you one more question before I go back to cells. What is your battery backup life? If there's no sun, if we have a cloudy 2 days, 3 days rain, what is the the battery backup or how does that function? So the the the way
it fun it functions actually uh it's it's a question that we hear pretty often. Um the the there is sun every day. Uh even if today right now it's cloudy there is still irradiation. So the way we do that we make a study on
dural um on this area we check how much irradiation we had over the past 10 year in dural. Based on uh on that we take the worst year. So if 20 uh uh 2018 was the worst year, we take this year as
reference. For us, a worst the worst year is a year with less sun. So we take this in reference. Then we take the worst month. Typically it's December, what we call the worst month. It's a month where uh you receive less irradiation and where the nights are the
longest. So we take the worst year, the worst month and we size our system based on these two worst case scenario. So mathematically it's unless there is a situation like uh the only situation where we had some issues was in Los
Angeles during the fires when there was the fires because of the big smoke >> right >> three days after our our anti-blackout system start to activate. You see the lights in orange in um uh in the display
and the start will and and the lights will start to dim. They will start to dim uh it work just like a I would say a human body uh a street light is supposed to receive a certain amount of light. If
uh this amount of light is not received there is something wrong. So the light will say okay let's wait one or two more days. I still don't receive the amount of lights and it's worse than the worst case scenario. What what is going on? So the system will put itself on a starving
mode just like human metabolism. When you don't get food, your metabolism will slow. So v visibly it will be difficult to see but the light will start to save um some energy and so on. So it's not I
can uh answer and I know you like direct answer tell you okay you put the blanket on the light uh on the solar panel during 5 days and you will still have light yes but it's it's not really how it works it's based on how much uh yes
how much irrigation I receive so how much consumption I'm working on that I I need based on the two worst case scenario I uh described 10 years and worse months. >> Okay. Right. One last question. You your
product is made where? Are you local? >> So our uh product is uh manu the brain and the heart of the system is uh made in France. This is where we started uh the activity. Uh but our US headquarter is in Fort Worth, Texas.
>> Okay. >> So it's assembled in the US. >> The the the light fixture are assembled in the US. The system is programmed in the US. We are transitioning the assembly of the energy box in US, but we're not there yet. So any system
received uh installed until probably October 2026 will be made in France. >> Made in France >> on the energy the energy box >> and you have a local office. >> We have local office uh here. >> You have a representative? >> Yes. No, we have local office in Orlando.
>> In Orlando. Okay, perfect. Thank you. >> Thank you, madam. Okay. So, I had asked a question of the discrepancy in the amount of lights. >> Yes. Yes. The reason the discrepancy is because we follow it's hard to hear you.
>> Sorry again. So, that's based on the luminaries that we are using. H we are using the signature lights that you're using through the whole city and we did our photometrics based on that. So that's
that was a a that changed a little bit the amount of luminaries also we followd standard for road to you know if there is an accident and you are not following that you know you know can be a liability also I I I want to comment a
little bit as a you know learning about what Josen mentioned it is yes there's no solar lighting that need to be certified But our installation methods that needs to be certified
if you see through the whole city uh all the lamps that you are install are a with a pre-cast foundation difference with what we are seeing you know we have a more a bigger mass in the
top of the pole with that said if we don't have a bigger foundation in the bottom uh you know if there's high wind zones and we don't have concrete is a direct burial pole, you know, that system will be, you know, crook and bend
after two or three storms. Additionally to that, you know, the breakable device, we took in consideration the breakable device because needs to be done. You know, we need to
take in consideration what if there's an accident, if it's a there's a dead involved or a major accident, lawyers going to sue the city because they are not using a breakable device
that is the safety standard for a road lighting. There's a Well, I'm just going to let you do more questions. You don't think it's worth worth the risk is what you're saying. >> There's no way that that the city should
take that risk. Also, we have as in that specific area the soil is a sandy soil needs to be installed with concrete. There's no other way. And also there is a third party that already
stamp all our plans. The pole, our pole is an aluminum pole is manufactured by Hapco. That's the biggest pole manufacturer in the US that it's in in Virginia. And that pole
is specific for this project. Having a thin pole is not the solution. It's having the right pole. >> Okay. Um All right. I think I have my answers uh my questions answered. Um I'm I'm still
a little bit questioning really how I I I'm understanding it's the lumens. Are is your pole taller? >> Our poles are 26 foot. >> What are the ones that What's the one that's outside now? I'm trying to since I didn't see them side by side. I don't
>> 22. >> 22. So yours are taller. >> Yes. >> Okay. >> You your the whole pole's true. The the only thing I'm going to say about the one I saw outside to me it looked like a park. Like it looked like a a pole that belonged in a park. And so what you're saying is that the the the poles that we
have throughout the city are are pre-cast foundation. >> The whole city has >> even in our parks >> pre-cast foundations and also breakable device. Even with the >> but on the streets you're talking about on the streets. >> On the streets. Yeah. On the parks it's a different Right. It's a different
illumination. different illumination similar what you guys have outside right now. >> Um, all right. Any other questions? Anybody have any questions? >> Warranty. There was a question about warranty when I looked at this. Um,
can you can you comment on your warranty? Oh, here we go. sells um proposal 5-year warranty to all components and Bach's proposal is an 8-year warranty. Any Yes,
>> including manpower. >> Yeah, including manpower. Well, I would hope, right? The warranty should be all inclusive. If it's not working, you should come fix it. >> So, are it Do you have anything? >> Well, you offer fiveyear warranty. you know, in our systems, if there's a a
need that we need to extend the warranty, we definitely can evaluate that. But on that proposal that we present, we put a 5-year warranty. That is the standard in that industry. >> Okay. And you do have a local office. You said you're right down the street.
>> We do. Like 10 minutes away from here. >> Okay. All right. My questions have been answered. I don't know anybody else has any questions. >> Yes. Counciloman Venito. Just a quick comment, Mayor B. Following up on your your comments and questions. Has has the
staff conducted a life cycle uh analysis including maintenance, replacements? I mean comparing both companies. We have the cost. >> We haven't looking beyond >> we just look at the cost and the the
proposals. Yeah, >> that I think that that will help as well to >> I think the warranty is what covers that. You have the warranty. So, I mean, at the end of the day, this is solar lights, so you may have to have replacements >> 10 years from now, but an 8year warranty is substantial for this cost
>> because I mean, regardless what we do, I mean, it's uh it's something that has been an issue for >> a good number of years. So, we have to >> certainly move forward regardless. So, >> and I think the issue that we have is that we don't control most of the lights, >> right? That's the main issue.
>> No, I think this is a viable option. um you know we have had our um disappointments with solar when we did our paths but we're talking about many many years ago technology has changed a lot um I do think this is a viable solution for the area it's been dark for
many years so I definitely want to move forward look um I think you're both commendable companies um with similar technologies obviously you can both offer um a substantial product um I am inclined to go with cells for several
reasons. Um, I think while the FDOT standards may not be a requirement, if I can provide the best safety for the area, I'm going to do that. And I see that you do have the pre-cast, right? The difference in price is not much when you talk about that. Again, they're
offering more lighting. Um, I would have liked to see like if we were going to compare two companies, give me both polls so I could take a look at it. I think it's unfair that we did one and not the other in in all reality. So, you know, my recommendation is one of two things. I like that you're local, that you're right there down the street. To
me, that's extremely important because I think that the service is is extremely uh valuable to our residents. Um, so I'm okay to make the decision today. Otherwise, I would say I'd like to see the poll installed and let's take a look at it and give them this, you know, two,
three months so for we could so we could take a look and see what the illumination is. I've seen yours. Not saying it's a bad thing. I I think it's a it would work well. Um but it does look more like a park pole to me. It doesn't look like a street pole to me. It looks like, you know, I don't know
that the illumination and I'm I'm a I'm a little concerned with the fact that you're offering less poles. And to me, the illumination didn't look substantial from what I saw out here. So, you know, again, I didn't have a visual comparison either with cells, but kind
of looking into the different proposals, the presentations and the product, um, I'm inclined to go with something made locally, something that's uh, you know, has a safer mechanism in my opinion. Um, so those are those are my my points. I'm
not gonna take any more question. I'm not gonna, you know, continue to debate it. That's kind of where I stand. So, I'll let anyone else who has any questions move uh move the item. >> Okay. Through the mayor. >> Yes, Councilwoman Reoso. >> So, I'm going to also say a few comments
on this. Um one, there's one company that we're getting more more lighting than the other. Um pricing, quality is important. The risks to life is something that we're definitely responsible for. So although lighting is
a priority, I think in in case of an accident and having the opportunity for somebody to survive an accident is also quite I mean above a lighting. Um and then technology features. I I do like the solar powered um option. I do
understand that the the the type of soil here in in Florida is different. The the the way to um install is more difficult. Um, so I I do understand that. Um, I I would like to see what the light pole
looks like if if there's a trip maybe that we can take or maybe another maybe not exactly see it installed and and wait two or 3 months. Yeah. >> If there's somewhere that we can go and look at a pool that's already installed and compare that way so we can have like a quicker uh outcome to which company we
would like. >> Yes, of course. We can go or we can bring it here even tomorrow so you guys can see it. H actually we we we presented to Carlos and his team last week about the the product. So you are
welcome to visit us at at the office or or we can bring it here uh whatever you guys decide. >> Yeah, I think we all need to have the same opportunity to view it in the same format. So our our opinion is based on
on on some type of level of quality control. >> Maybe we can have them install one somewhere in the city and then we can compare apples to apples. >> Right. Right. >> Um there are some areas within the city that I think there's a need for lighting. Vanderbilt Park is another
area that I have in mind. So >> and and I know our residents need this sooner than later. They've been asking for it for quite some time. So, I do want to be able to turn around a product for them that they're going to like, especially that this decision has been brought to us here at the DES. I I want to take I want to take all the
opportunities available to us to make the best decision possible. But I do think that comparing the two products live in a controlled uh environment where we can all have the same opinion or, you know, the same opportunity to make the same opinion, same time, uh the
same area. So, it's it's just a better form of of judging the product. That's what I would like for for us and council. >> Okay. Any other questions? >> Yeah, thank you. I um I just wanted to make a
clarification. Uh Mayor Christie, um ju just so that it's clear, we do have the option to do anchor bays uh with the same foundation with the breakaway. just that option is there. Uh when we say we
recommend direct at the end of the day, the city needs to look into safety and what they need for safety for of the residents. So just because that's not what we recommended doesn't mean it's not viable or not doable. Just >> No, it's in the memo. Your your cost with the with the pre-cast breakaway is
in the memo. >> Thank you. And then uh wanted to reference what you commented about. Uh it looks like a park. Yes, we usually put those um that fixture in the parks because it looks aesthetic, right? We looked at the aesthetics of Dural, keeping Dural beautiful. We we wanted to kind of continue that. Um however, City
of Hollywood uh just last month approved $250,000 a year per year for the next four years. And what they're doing is they're transforming the entire city uh from the beach all the way down to downtown everywhere in in the city of Hollywood. Um and they don't have that fixture, they have the essential
fixture. Um, so the top of our fixture can be changed to whatever preference you want. Um, so if it needs to look more like a street light, per se, that's totally an option as well. So just just to make sure that everybody's clear. Um,
just because that's not what we presented on there doesn't mean it's not available and that we can't >> No, I think everybody understands that they're both very customizable. >> Yeah. And then on FDOT, um, we do follow all of the FDOT regulations. those are all in place whether it be with uh the
anchor base or not we do go by those standards and that's what we've you know we shown in there so >> okay thank you >> thank you please >> I I I want to just you know ask as a question I I was not clear what's the material of your pole >> it could be aluminum or uh
>> but in the proposal in the proposal >> what did you put on the >> that's what I asked that's what I asked here was what was the what is the make I asked the material of your poll in the proposal. >> Okay. So on the proposal it's uh the opera. >> Okay. It's it's galvanized hot deep galvanized steel.
>> Steel. >> Galvanized steel. >> Yes. Hot deep galvanized steel. Okay. >> Very robust. 30 years. Um yeah just one more thing about um the the street type. we
and and uh I'm I'm very uh respectful um of your feedback and uh for me I've been doing that for for like five years and I've been to all the states in
US um there is a very there is an impression when I said that the street lights did not change since Thomas Edison I mean We we run we we've been running wire since the beginning and when a street
light um and I I don't understand why nothing has been happened nothing has been improved I see a lot of um >> fear >> fear um from the municipalities to disrupt and I agree with you safety is
uh is our top priority we don't install street light to kill people that's not what we do. However, we need to disrupt that. We need to disrupt that. And in my opinion, if we have a product, if you have a brand new iPhone, a brand new
smartphone, and we tell you, okay, I don't trust the battery, so I'm going to keep it plugged on the wire, we don't we don't use the benefit of the smartphone, you know. So I I I assume the fact that
uh we don't want uh to put that many poles that we want a very nice uh light that is uh uniform with a lot of uniformity and these lights you know in the proposition the proposition we made
there are 30% of their capacity. You want more more light we click on two buttons you have 20% more lights there's no problem. The only thing is we we think you don't need that anymore. An LED is 210 lumen per watt. It's way way
more efficient than a grid light. So the problem with too much light, it's lack of lack of uniformity. It's lack it's too much light, it's too bright, it's light pollution. And we are here to change things. More light, it's not always better. Um and yes we lost many
deals because we assume the fact that you don't need breakaway you don't need that um and if you want us to code that we will code it but we are 100% sure that the future of solar street light all over us all over the world it's not
the base it's not the concrete base it's not the breakaway and it's not being uh have fear that because I'm not doing things like 70 years ago that what we are offering uh is uh can kill people
you know and you can make your due diligence on us for has never killed anybody god forbid um we we actually we bring safety we're here for that that's our mission so I just wanted to clarify that thank you very much for your attention appreciate it
>> thank you yes >> I'm just going to address something you know uh tin galanise hole as they mentioned thin and galvanized h it will rust and will disappear. We are in a saleline
environment and the only poles that stand the saleline environment are aluminum poles. >> Okay. >> All right. So what are what what are we going to move forward with? Because we have to have a decision and I I don't
want this to be prolonged for another six months. Um, ideally I would like to see this area be illuminated this year. That's the pro that's the you know the priority and um, you know, our goal. So we can move forward in having them
install a light in the next month and we bring this back in March. Um, and we make a decision based on what looking at both of the polls independently or we make a decision today with what is in front of us. um taking into account
again the proposal of both um and the product that's being offered and we move forward. So >> we can bring >> through the mayor >> we can bring a luminary to you guys the solar panel and all that for your evaluation tomorrow. We have it here for
your revision. We didn't want to bring it today because I don't think it was the the right way to present here but we can do that tomorrow or even later today. appreciate. >> So, through the mayor, I I would feel
comfortable um putting this on for a later date and to have the opportunity to review what that light would look like. I don't think we would need to wait until March. I think February would give us enough time. The the memo, their information was
>> I'm only saying because if they're going to install it for us to actually look at it, I think there needs to be an identified location for them to do that. And >> agree, >> it may not I mean, >> I have one. So, >> you have one already. Okay. All right. Well, then install it. >> We trust. >> Install it and um and put it back in
February and let us know where it's installed so we can go take a look at it. The one that uh Fornage has, it's back there. I don't know if any of you have noticed it. It's right between the Publix and the and the little pathway. >> It's right in the little path right there on right behind our building. So, you can go take a look at it at night
and look at what it uh illuminates. Question for you. He mentioned that you can control the luminaries on the light. Yes, you can dim down the luminary or anything like that. >> You can do that as well. >> Yes. One of the things is that the poles that we're going to be using through the 82 second road are custom poles made
from Hapco that will take you know 3 4 months to May today to finish the manufacturer of the poles. We can install that one with a different pole but the illuminary and the performance is going to be the same just the pole.
It's not going to be exact as the one that we're going to install in here because that one was a design based with the stamp engineering drawings and everything from them. Also, that pole has a warranty of 50 years >> for solving environments like here.
>> Okay. >> All right. >> Perfect. All right. I don't think we need to do Do you need an action or I think you all have direction as to what to do. >> No, mayor. We'll go ahead and and do the installation of of the poll and then you
can at your leisure go and and and review it all of you and we'll bring the item back in February for a final decision. >> Okay, sounds good. >> Um through the mayor. Yes. Is there a way that we can um verify that each of us have looked at both polls? Some type
of log or anything that we can sign off? >> I think it's we have to hold ourselves accountable and go out there and look at it. Just make sure you email us the address. I'm telling you, I've gone out and looked at this one several times >> when I leave late. Yes. So, just make sure you email us the location and
>> Yes. Well, Carlos, you will put together an email just letting you know where if anyone would like to go out with public works, I'm sure they can accommodate to send somebody with you. >> Absolutely. >> All right. Great. Thank you very much. >> We'll see you all back in February then.
I'm Yes. >> Thank you for coming to present. Appreciate it. >> Thank you. >> All right, Madam Clerk. >> Yes. We'll go back to the item that was pulled from consent >> 6G. >> 6G. A resolution of the mayor and the city council of the city of D Florida
approving the award of fiscal year 2526 community based organizations first cycle grants in the amount of $5,810 to mine and Melly $5,600 to shine bright foundation $5,460 to vet info $4,560 to Miami youth orchestra and $3,570
to friends of Dorado Scouts providing for implementation in corporation recital and an effective date. This was pulled by council pined >> council pin. >> Thank you mayor. Uh the reason why first of all I decided to to pull this in is as you might recall I'm I'm the one that
proposed last year to to increase not only the amount uh available amount per per um per organization >> from 5,000 to 7,000 but at the same time
uh the cycles instead of one to do it twice in in a fiscal year. So, I'm first of all, I'm happy that the fact that we're increasing the the number of we had increased the number of organizations that apply. I know we we
had a 14 organizations that submitted their their application. >> Sorry. >> And that at least three of them are receiving above the the 5,000 number for the first time. So I think that's I have to recognize that because that that was
part of my intention when uh this was approved with with with your support last year. But at the same time I know that you know we're still limiting the number to five uh organizations. We have done in the past more than five
depending when we review this these uh numbers and the scores and all that. At the same time, part of that uh resolution I know it was to uh to review the guidelines and the processes how this uh takes place and by looking at
some of the organizations that and I'm happy that they're they're receiving this award and this grant uh from and I know some of them are here by the way. It's two of them are here. Three, I'm sorry. Yes.
So, but mine and Melody Shine bright the Miami Youth Orchestra and the Friends of Dorado Scouts, which they all do a great a great job. So, thank you for being here. You know, you have been waiting all this morning. Uh, but thank you for what you do in our community and
for for all our residents. So, I thank you for that. At the same time, I know there are other organizations that are part of our community as well that they have done, I believe, an incredible uh work in the past helping families and that's why I would like to include two
other organizations in this cycle. Uh and let me go back for a second. What we have done in the past is when we had the maximum amount of $5,000, the organizations that were included
after or during a council meeting, uh it was half of the amount, the maximum amount, meaning in the past was 2500 that was awarded to X or any other particular organization. In this case, since the new cap is $7,000,
half will be $3,500. So what I'll be asking my colleagues is to consider two additional organizations. one of Denny's education for all which I think they do a great job when it comes to uh especially uh
Latino families and they're trying to uh that they're trying to take their their kids to college and sometimes they don't understand the process and I think it's vital in our community to have organizations like this one that can
offer the free workshops and all uh free resources to our community especially the ones that that doesn't speak English. And the other one is Pa Desperansa which has been around for a good number of years here in our in our community. And they do offer uh services
when it comes to domestic violence violence which is something that for me uh has been uh uh for the last two three years something that I have been working on to try to not only provide more resources uh when it comes to information and and support these
organizations not only perpa but uh any other organization related with domestic uh violence. So, uh, I will leave that up to your consideration. But again, what I'm looking for is to include education for
all for, uh, with 3500 and Perla Desperansa with 3500 as well. >> Okay. Thank you, Councilman. Um, I have no problem with that. We've extended it in the past before to organizations that applied and just didn't meet the the the
amount by very little because we usually just pick five. But we have extended the funds. We can always take it from the funds for the later one. Exactly. Um to get them the opportunity to give it to more of the ones that applied uh for this round. I it's it's something we've done in the past and I have no issue
with it. Um usually we try and limit it to five, but they all applied and are all I mean equally merit the opportunity and serve a great purpose in our community and providing services that go beyond what we do at times. So I have no no problem with it. We just need a
motion to approve with the uh amendment by Councilwoman Pinto. >> Motion to approve. >> Motion to approve with the amendments by Councilman Pino by Councilwoman Reynoso. >> Second. >> Second by Councilman Pinedo. >> Madame Clerk, please call the role. >> Motion to approve as amended. Made by Counciloman Reyno. Seconded by Council Pinto. Council Reynoso.
>> Yes. >> Councilman Pedo. >> Yes. >> Vice Mayor Caval. >> Yes. >> Mayor Fraga. >> Yes. >> Motion passes. >> All right. Okay. This exhausts our discussion items for today. So, I will go to my mayor's report.
>> All right. Um, so very briefly, I want to just uh we went to uh Tallahassee, myself and council were in Tallahassee this week. We just came back yesterday and had very productive meetings. Um, obviously a lot of eyes on what will happen regarding property taxes. Um, we
have not much news different than what everyone's hearing at this time, but we will continue to monitor and be involved. We met um had a great meetings with um the the governor's office and um and talked about our appropriations. So, we're looking forward to getting
everything that we um have asked for this year that will only continue to enhance our programming and uh and infrastructure work here in the city of Dorado, as well as our law enforcement, which is something that we asked for um that is significant to our community, especially this year, 2026 being a year
where there will be a lot of high-profile activity happening in the city of Dorado, as you all know. So, we look forward to um those um to the legislative session being a productive one and being one that will um you know yield great results for the city of
Dorado in its funding. Um and we'll be watching those preemptive bills that continue to roll out and how they affect our city and the authority within the city on zoning matters and things of that nature. So, uh but it was a good productive meeting. It was the opening of the session. we were there for the
state of the state uh and uh were able to wa watch the governor speak as well as the speaker of the house um for their last session. And then also I'd like to announce uh that our comp our 20 2050 comprehensive plan update
is starting and we will be having our first workshop on Tuesday, January 20th at 6:00 p. p.m. at Dal Central Park. We would love for our community to come out and participate in that. There will be several workshops. This is the uh initial one oh just one workshop with
other sorry one workshop we'll be having uh as we prepare the update to our comprehensive plan so we hope you'll join us and bring your perspective and last for my mayor's comments this month um well actually there's one more thing but uh I wanted to highlight uh 10
achievements for 2025 that we had top top achievements and congratulate our administration I didn't do it in December and I should have but I wanted to not let January very pass without congratulating our administration, our incredible staff and our and my colleagues for these 10 highlighted um
things that we did last year that I think will really turn to a new page in the city of Dorado. First, we had we purchased Deral 10, which is the first time we've purchased land um in in the city since its inception to be able to create revenue generating assets, which
is something that we've discussed on uh doing for this community. We completed com uh we completely completed Deral Central Park. Finally uh we in record time negotiated and came to an agreement on our collective bargaining agreement with police
association. Um we put took important steps forward on the future of our police headquarters. We now have a conceptual design. Congratulations to the chief's sta staff and Orlando, particularly Alicia, all of you, but I know Orlando
was a huge part of that process. We have the planning and also renderings for the future parking garage, pickle ball courts, and retail in Dorado Central Park. Another um project that is uh geared towards our our policy of revenue generating assets. Um we
introduced the emergency hardship grants for families. I want to thank artist and Nick for their hard work on that. The first two months of it were extremely successful in finance. I know you guys worked really hard, Fernando, everybody, but particularly Nick and uh and artists have really uh really extended their hand to the community on this and
there's a lot of families that are very grateful for it. We also had the Golden Hearts senior grant program which I received many many thank yous and emails from residents on. Um, and we worked alongside our parks and police for kids and the chief uh the chief of police as well as the police department to raise
over $300,000 for parks and police for kids. Um, that directly supports youth, families, and programming in our city. Uh, we lowered our millage rate, keeping us still the lowest millage rate in all of Miami Dade County. Um, and we enhanced constituent services once
again. And I have a little graphic that I would like to share with everybody. I think it has it. If not, I believe Oh, we printed them. Here you go. This is an impressive little graphic as to what Constituent Service Do you mind passing it that way, please? Constituent
services is doing for our residents. We had over 500 cases opened. We had over 643 phone calls for assistance and over 500 emails with constituent services. So that is a huge
um achievement and just a testament to the um customer service of this city. And so I just wanted to thank everybody involved and just again say it was a fantastic 2025 and 2026 has some big shoes to fill. So get to work people.
And last I just want to wish artist Samuels a happy birthday. Our constituent services coordinator, her birthday was on the 13th. I was in Tallahassee. So I just wanted to wish her a happy birthday today. um for and thank her for everything that she does. Lastly, um oh, one more thing I forgot.
We need to change the council meeting for February to it was supposed to be February 11th to February 18th as it falls on the same days as date days. I almost forgot. So, if I have the support, I'd like to go ahead and change our council meeting date for February from the 11th to the 18th. Everybody
okay with that? Yes. All right. That is it for my council comments. That's it. All right, we move on to the next one. City manager report. >> So, good morning again. Um, mayor, thank you for that recap. Um,
it's been an amazing year and we're looking for an amazing year to come as well. Um, right now I just wanted to let you know that I'm delighted to share that the city has been honored with the
government government finance officers association certificate of achievement of for excellence in financial reporting for the fiscal year ending September 30th, 2024. >> Awesome. This prestigious certificate of achievement represents the highest level
of recognition in governmental accounting and financial reporting, signifying a major accomplishment for both our government and its management. The city of Dorado has proudly received this award every year since 2004. This recognition highlights the dedication and expertise of our finance team and
underscores our commitment to maintaining fiscal responsibility and fostering trust within our community. So, I extend a very heartfelt gratitude to everyone who's contributed to this remarkable achievement to our finance team. And I'd like mayor if they could come up to take a picture with you. Yes.
>> Um in order to commemorate this um uh award. >> Actually, if you don't mind if you just wait till the end of the meeting, we'll go down and take a picture with them as we recess. Okay. Don't go anywhere. >> Does that conclude your mayor's? >> And that concludes my comments. >> So, I forgot something. It is also our uh city manager's one-y year
anniversary. So, congratulations to Wendy Mayor. >> Great job in your first year. >> Thank you. >> Yes. All right, >> Mr. City Attorney. >> Thank you, Madam Mayor. Uh, nothing really to report. Uh, looking forward to a very good 2026.
>> Awesome, Madam Clerk. >> It's attached. So, efficient. Thank you. >> All right, we're ready to take a recess. >> I do have a >> Oh, Council Marino personal privilege. >> Yes. So, um, I didn't want the council
meeting to be over without recognizing that it is the vice mayor's last birthday at the city of Dorado. So, I just wanted to, you know, bring out >> her birthday as well. >> Yes. >> Yeah. >> So, from my office, >> but you didn't have to. >> No, it's okay. >> Thank you.
>> From my office. Thank you. >> Do we have a >> happy birthday? >> Thank you. >> Yes. >> Thank you for your wishes. >> Sing happy birthday. >> We can say happy birthday. >> Fine. That's fine. >> Happy birthday to you. Happy birthday to you. Happy birthday,
dear friend. >> Happy birthday to you. >> Thank you. Your wishes. >> Thank you so much. >> Okay, we need a motion to recess. >> Motion. >> Motion to recess by Counciloman Reynoso. >> Second by Councilman Pino. All in favor say I. >> All right, we will see you back here at
6 o'clock.