uh and just making sure right that people are uh that you're not just following the law when there's a police officer present but at all times right which is very important for safety and enforcement. So Chief Mario before we say goodbye is there anything a final
comment that you would like to give to our residents? >> Yeah I I'd like to say remember that the whole purpose for this program is the safety of our children. What we're trying to do is change behavior. Uh if you look at the number of traffic accidents that we have not just in the city but all over the state, the the
lead killer in in traffic related deaths is speed. If we can adjust people's speed, we can make it much much safer for everyone. Uh this is specific to uh school zones, but at the end of the day, if we can lower your speed, if we can change your behavior, if we can get you
to think to slow down a little bit, it's going to be much safer for the community. But any questions you may have, you can reach out to us as Camila mentioned earlier. Uh, and we're open to any questions and any suggestions that you have. >> Thank you, Chief, so much for joining us here today. If you want to learn more information, visit
homesteadfl.gov/schools safety. We have information the schools that are participating as well as contact and email info. If you need to reach out to us and you still need some more clarity on this, of course, follow us on social media. We have Homestead
Police as well as City of Homestead. We're always putting out different events and initiatives we have going on. Thank you so much for tuning in today. My name is Camila Barcel, the chief public information officer for the city. Great news. Homestead Homestead Public
Service Energy has one of the lowest residential electric rates in the state of Florida. According to the April 2025 report from the Florida Municipal Electric Association, HPS Energy ranks third lowest among all investorowned and municipal utilities in the whole state.
HPS energy customers pay just $108 per 1,000 kilwatt hours. That's well below the state average of 127 and FPL's 130. At HPOS Energy, we're committed to providing reliable power at an affordable price. We know how important
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code compliance department. Illegal dumpers can be fined up to $500 per day until the mess is cleaned up and in some cases even get arrested. Together, we can keep our community clean today and tomorrow. Visit homesteadfl.gov/
beautiful to learn more. The Johnson's used to be bad about wasting energy on lighting. Real bad. But when they realized what it was costing them in real dollars, they got energy smart real quick. First, they turned off all unnecessary lights. Then,
instead of standard incandescent bulbs, they switched to Energy Star CFLs and LEDs. Talk about a bright idea. Now, they use 75% less energy. Plus, the new bulbs last 10 times longer, can save $30 over the bulbs lifetime, and they're 75%
cooler. What did that really mean to the Johnson's? Enough to cover three high-end coffees a day. Dinner for the family at that fancy schmancy restaurant. Another round of golf for dad. Massage for mom. Brought to you by your local municipal electric utility
and the Florida Municipal Power Agency. >> Good evening everyone and welcome. Our apologies for the uh brief delay. I'd like to call the city of Homestead Committee of the Whole meeting to order.
Today is Tuesday, April 7th, 2026, and it is 5:43 p.m. Have a roll call, please. Madame Clerk. >> Councilwoman Ksky, >> here. >> Councilwoman Abula, >> here. >> Councilman Cannibal, >> here.
>> Councilman Fletcher, >> here. >> Councilman Roth >> here. >> Vice Mayor Bailey >> here. Mayor Losa >> here. >> Um, Mr. Manager, are there any additions, deletions, or deferrals for this agenda? >> None, Mr. Mayor.
>> Council, any request for deletions or deferrals? Okay. So, our first item before us is tab one, the approval of the March 3rd, 2026 Committee of the Whole minutes. Do I have a motion to approve? Moved by
Councilman Roth. Second by Councilman Cannibal. Are there any objections to the approval? All in favor? >> Any opposed? Next item is tab two, Mr. Pearl,
the cow item. But uh tab two would be a resolution of the city council of the city of Homestead, Florida, adopting the city of Homestead Water and Sewer Master Plan providing that the water and sewer master plan shall serve as a policy guide for future water and wastewater system planning, prioritization,
coordination, implementation efforts, providing for implementation, providing for an effective date. >> Thank you. Um Mr. Manager, I think we've all seen this. Uh you have a brief presentation briefing the operative word. Why do I
always get asked that? >> Yes, sir. >> We all have to be on the same page for what the word brief means. >> Exactly. >> This is a test. >> Good evening, Mayor and Council. Um,
well, we have online the uh consultants that worked on the project. Can they introduce themselves? >> Uh, good afternoon everyone. Uh this is Nikolai Gage from CES Consultant. >> So that is when CES consultant and of course my name is Kyro Kangas and I'm
the public works director. So tonight we're going to present quickly the water and sewer master plan that the city has been working for um a little over a year now. The purpose of a water and sewer master plan of any master plan is to establish
a plan a work plan that we can follow that can guide the infrastructure improvements of any uh municipality. So in order to create this master plan we first have to define the scope and objectives that the consultant know exactly what it is that we're looking
for. data collection and analysis. That took countless hours of us trying to compile old historical data and make sure that they put it into our computer a uh design um system, develop a vision. Uh we needed to let them know what we
wanted the city to be and of course account for growth and create the master plan which is the one that we're presenting now. I want to give you a quick um overview of what our water and uh sewer is or what it looks like. This is a map of the sewer service area. The
dashed lines are the city limit boundaries whereas the thick black solid line is the sewer service area. As you can see, we service outside of the city limits. And what you see dashed in blue towards the top are the areas that are
currently with uh running on septic tanks. This is a map of the water service area. And um again the same uh as the previous one dash line is a city the the black solid line is the service area boundary.
I wanted to point out which I have during the briefings the blue area is the one that is being serviced with Miami date county water that the city purchases for those residents. Um even though they use our infrastructure our pipes and valves and and meters and
whatnot. Towards the top you can see that we have two well fields. One of them is at Wake Park that has four um uh pumps and then the one at Harris has two pumps.
This is the water manes by pipe material. Um, one good point that I would like to note is that the majority of our system is ductile iron, which is good. And we have very little areas that have asbestous cement,
which was an old material, and it's not dangerous for consumption. It's not as bestus as in the air, but it's something that you want to remove because it is brittle and tends to burst. These um these are uh uh this slide shows the water man sizes and age
deficiencies. Anything in red is this is the map shows the age deficiencies. Anything in red are distribution lines that are less than 8 in in diameter. Um we have a lot of that in the city and it's something that we are working
towards upsizing. The table shows the age of the pipe system. And again, this is not the entirety because we don't have all the data. Some of it was lost during Hurricane Andrew, unfortunately. But based on what we know, this is data.
And we're not doing that badly because, as you can see, the majority of our pipes are from 30 to 39 years old. That is hitting the upper limit, but it's not as bad as other parts of the system. Now we move on to the recommendations.
First, gravity main prioritization. Luckily, gravity mains are not a an issue when it comes to emergencies per se. They are an issue when it comes to capacity. And that is why, as you can see in the map before you, the Chrome,
which is the big red line that goes, you know, north and south, and the Flaggler were prioritized, and those are the ones that hopefully will start construction immediately after the bids are received on April 13th for that project. Um, the rest of the system, there are few that
we do want to upsize and we also want to align and this map represents those prioritizations. force main prioritization. This one is a big deal. Uh there is a big red squiggly line that runs east west. That one
hampers our capacity for growth, especially anything east of the city. So we are actively working with developers and establishing a fastpaced plan to be able to allow them to connect as these pipes are uh exceeding the threshold uh
of velocities. And that pipe especially underneath the Sundereero landing between the wastewater treatment facility and the turnpike um is the one that through through which all the flows east of the turnpike
flows. So it is almost 50 years old and um it doesn't have enough redundancy. It doesn't have any redundancy. So something that we need to work towards the water main prioritization again the red chrome and flaggler is what we're doing now. We received a grant to upsize
water manes and that is money that is being used towards the flagler portion. So we continuously apply for grants and water upsizing is one of our main objectives. This is an example of one that we're doing now. And I just wanted
to highlight real quick the area of the city that has very small undersized pipes. They're approximately 2 in in diameter. And this would obviously be one that we will prioritize as soon as we receive grant funding so that we can improve reliability, pressure and fire
protection. So here we have only highlights of the projects that are proposed being proposed and that are being prioritized. The number one is well number seven. This project has been fully designed and
is finalizing the permitting process. We are asking for state and federal appropriations to be able to build it because without this well, we do not have enough capacity to take over that bluish area that I showed towards the beginning of the presentation. Um, and
we definitely want to take over that area because it'll be cost savings to to the city and also more reliability and better pressure for the people in that area of the city. The million-gallon storage tank and pressure pumps is also a critical infrastructure need because
it will allow us to fill up more tanks during off- peak hours and use the pressure pumps to regulate the pressure if there's any emergencies or during peak hours. Well number seven, redundant is another well that we would need in order to work in tandem with well number
seven. These are supposed to turn on and off um you know interchangeably. So that is one that we will start designing um fairly soon and it will be most likely in um the same well field as Harris field pump stations um wells. And then
the last one is a water main upsizing. I I mentioned that in the other slides. The 33 million that we're estimating is for the entirety of the system as they're being prioritized now. But the projects will be broken up into manageable
cost Uh portions >> question. Uh sorry I didn't get a chance to call you on this but it kind of hit me today. The uh location of the million gallon storage tank where for the water where would we be looking to put that? >> That is slided right now. We have it
slided for the Wickoff Park, but we also want it to be towards the west side of uh the east side of the city uh for pressure optimization on on that area as well. >> That's a big tank. So, >> well, depends what you consider big.
Dural has one in one of their parts and it's not that big considering uh what you imagine when you think of a million gallon tank, but it is sizable. Yeah. Thank you, >> Councilwoman.
>> Thank you. On this page, the 33 million figure, is that price based on the phasing uh process where it's probably going to cost more because we're not doing it all at once or is this the cost and then we can expect it to be more if you phase it out? >> Well, this is this is a summary of all
the little ones that are in the report. So the report what we asked the consultant to do was to keep in mind the the funding constraints that we have. We can only do a project that is anywhere from 5 to 10 million depending on the grants that we receive. So the 33 is a
conglomerate of all those projects together. It's not each one. >> Okay. >> As for the sewer projects, uh Chrome and Flaggler, we all know that that one is our top priority. So, we wanted to highlight it and uh hopefully we'll start construction soon. The 24in force
man along Lucy Street is the one that I mentioned that we absolutely need to start working on to allow for the development to continue on the east side of the city. And last but not least, the wastewater treatment facility expansion, which if um not if, when, with council's
approval, we proceed with it, it will allow us to have more control of our um financial um state in the in the city because I don't know if you remember last year, um Miami Day was the increase
the wholesale rate by 19%. Now, we were able to only increase it by 13 because we budgeted, you know, appropriately, but it was 19% and every year they can increase it as much as they need as they see fit based on their uh necessities.
So, by doing this, we're able to take more control of our of our funding. >> Well, let me ask you before you jump ahead and we're going to talk about expanding the wastewater treatment plant. Over the years, there's been a lot of discussion about
maybe the whole thing needs to be relocated. That when that was constructed in place there, believe it or not, it was kind of out at the out in the middle of nowhere. Not a whole lot out there. Um, so, you know,
has there been any thought or I mean, that sum is probably three or four times that $65 million number to entirely relocate? >> It would be. Yeah. The entire west side of the city flows into the plant via gravity. That means that you would have
to have almost a regional pump station designed somewhere in the Lucy re or maybe in a plant, I'm not sure, to pump wherever you need to go. And that alone is a a multi multi-million dollar project. >> So that one could stay and you could
create a smaller scale further east perhaps. >> So Mr. So the rule of thumb for most cities and counties is to preserve your facility as is and build a brand new treatment plant elsewhere. The cost of replacing the
structure and infrastructure that supports it is going to run into billions of dollars. >> It's a lot. >> So the county what the county has done is to decentralize their system, build additional treatment plants. One in Hyalia to supply the west side of the county. You have one in the central
district at Virginia key for wastewater. You have the Alexander oil plant on Sunset Drive. Then you have one on the northwest side of the county. So the county is decentralizing. >> So we relieve the burden from the existing facility to a certain extent. >> True.
>> And re locate an ancillary facility somewhere else. >> That that is an option. Yeah. Keep in mind that with the wastewater treatment facility expansion, um there will be beautifification and other steps taken
so that it doesn't look or feel or smell like a waste water. >> Doesn't look like a sewer plant. >> You know, we'll take a trip out there. It does not smell like a wastewater treatment facility. >> Very proud of that. So, yeah, we can definitely look into all those alternatives. So just to kind of
amplify, I've told staff that we intend to schedule a site a field trip for council to go out to the water treatment plant and the wastewater plant and look at it. >> Yeah, the smell is from solid waste. >> There's there's not a ton of jokes built
into that trip, but >> it's true. >> So, uh, with that being said, if there's any questions, um, I'm happy to answer. And the call to action would be for council to hopefully um adopt the master plan.
>> Okay. Any additional questions, council, on the uh >> Good job and move it. >> Yeah. All right. So, it's been moved and seconded. Um do we need a roll call vote on this or just a a voice?
>> Well, this will be a motion to place it on your consent agenda. >> Just a voice vote. >> Yeah, this is just No, we're just moving forward to consent. All right. So, it's been moved and seconded. All in favor? >> Any oppose? Right. Well, so moving on to tab three. And as long as you're in
position and for the audience, I want to jump to tab seven. After this, you will have suffered enough. And we'll uh we'll jump to the item that all the red shirts and your friends are here for. >> Thank you. Say I'm boring. Okay.
Well, good evening, council and, uh, mayor. So, uh, we're now going to present the transportation master plan that we have also been working now for a little over a year. This was also a pretty large hurdle to get over. Um, as the manager
has mentioned during the briefings, this is something that the city seriously needed and lacked for quite some time. So, we're very happy that we finally have one. The purpose is the same. Uh establish a a road map, make sure that we have our vision and our needs clearly
represented. And and just like with the wastewater master plan, uh water and sewer mass plan, this one is for a 20-year planning horizon. Even though you're supposed to review these every 5 years to make sure that they still align with your needs as as the city grows, goals and
objectives are well relatively the same. This one is for enhancing transportation connectivity, optimizing mobility, improve transportation reliability, and develop viable project recommendations for implementation. So the rest of these slides for the most
part are to show you what the U consultant had to go through in order to develop this master plan. Uh they used as you can see the existing land use uh conditions in order to establish the capacity and and demand the the maximum
and greatest and best capacity and demand for the for the each each land area. They they looked at population profiles and the needs that they have because senior uh citizens and younger residents have different needs than people of a certain
age range 18 to 35 let's say. They also looked at existing population and employment to see where the density was, where the population density was, the employee density and that also drives the needs for transportation and prioritization. The future employment
and employment and household growth, they also took that into account. and uh the existing and planned multimodal network. This is one of the key um uh elements of a transportation master
plan which is to give people freedom from only having to use for example uh a single family vehicle. the freedom to be able to walk, to ride bicycles, multimodal uh infrastructure. Um the plan roadway improvements for
Miami date and for the city of Homestead, they looked at and and for the DOT, they looked at all those plans as we have them available to make sure that they were not duplicating uh efforts and to make sure that they all aligned with each other, that they
made sense. the methodology for roadway needs, existing and future condition analysis. As I mentioned before, they took all that data and they used um SER SER M8 as a modeling tool and also they used a
data called RIS uh a platform called RIIS that gives them almost hourby hour uh traffic demand um conditions. And this is something that is um maintained by by the county or the county gave us access to it. So
we were able to use it for this for this project. The roadway improvement types, we have intersection improvements as well as capacity improvements. And we went over these when we presented this to the workshop and and we all spoke about which intersections needed to be improved. That was also taken into
consideration. The volume capacity for 2025 is shown on the image to the left. The volume slashcapacity for 2030 is in the center and for 2045 is on the right. As you can
see, there are some sections that may turn darker red and lighter green as time progresses and the master plan tried to address this by planning the projects now so that we have better conditions in the future.
This slide is just a summary of the geo bond uh presentation that was uh forwarded to to council to review the projects that we are considering. And then here we can see some recommended roadway improvements where the green uh lines are through lane addition. And as
you are aware, we are currently trying to obtain grant funding for capacity improvements in multiple major well for us are major but collectors and and arterials in the city. For example, East
6th Avenue from Lucy to US1. Uh Mauy Drive from US1 to 162nd. Uh 147th Avenue crossing the C103 and 162nd Avenue. So that one we already have a grant for. All those are depicted
in this um slide. So we have a a list of projects associated with mobility impact fees that the council um adopted via resolution 2025930 on September 24, 2025. If you remember,
there were about 28 projects that the council believed were the most important and that they needed to be sent to the county for them to do one or two things. Either put it in their work program and do it because it's probably one of their facilities or allocate to the city
multimodal impact fees that we believe we are deserving of. Recently the the that list was circulated internally in ATBW. They analyzed uh all the projects and it's funny because we just met with
them to to review the list. They had said that some were not um they they they did not apply for for the work and of course they were not correct. And the funny thing is that our list is the first municipality that has sent them a list of projects and that is the process
that they want to implement going forward for other municipalities. So they started asking for this for municipalities and you guys with the manager's direction directive we were we were ahead of the game. So we may have set the precedent there. So we got the
list of projects we reviewed them and all we have to do is send it back to them for them to start putting them in their work program or prioritize uh my funding for us. This is the list of projects. Uh I believe uh you may have been sent this
already to review. >> May I? >> May I? >> Uh Cairo on the list of projects when we were doing our workshops and having our briefings in the room upstairs, there was the traffic light on 137th Avenue and Waterstone Boulevard that I had asked to be added to this. Can you
confirm if it's there? >> Uh I believe it's right there. It's one, two, three, four. They have it right there. Uh 37th Avenue from the bottom, I'm sorry. Tallahassy Road at Waterstone Boulevard. >> Thank you.
>> You're welcome. Uh, last but not least, this is a a list of current and potential available funding for transportation master plan projects. This is a list of the estimated cost of the projects that we have either
available funds for or potential funding. And then the numbers, so the footnotes will tell you where those potential fundings are coming from or or the actual funding. And as you can see, 162nd Avenue is by far the one that we
have the the most for. And uh we're currently working to to get a designer on board to start the bridge replacement and the roadway um widening. Erh, one key note is that we have changed our approach for grant application and
decided to break up projects into sizable chunks that will guarantee that we get not only the grant but also the grant enough for us to do the project as opposed to let's say giving us a million dollars but the project is 13. Where do we come up with
the rest? So 162nd is a very good example of that um process working really well because we have the funding for the bridge already secured and we're we think we're going to get funding for the road. Um 6th Avenue we have funding not only from grants but also from uh
transportation um fair share agreements that we can use and then the rest are are looking for funding right now. >> So mayor council go back to the list kyro please. So we resubmitted this list of projects back to the state and to the
federal government through our lobbyists. Currently some of these projects are being considered for funding in current year's budget. Both the house and the senate had allocated monies for some of the projects. So we're waiting for reconciliation and a final approval.
>> Those are that column on potential funding. For example, 147, the 4.1 million is number four, which is federal earmark for fiscal year 27 community project funding request. We'll see. >> Council Fletcher, if I may, and again,
uh I don't want to upset any engineers again, but >> I forgot to introduce them. They're online. Ah, Kimly Horn, they're a consultant. But, uh, I do want to throw out there again that, you know, we we tend to put bridges on these locations
when I think the cost effective way is to put in giant culverts. And we know it works. We've seen it done in Florida City. We've seen it done outside and I think the cost effectiveness would reduce the cost and you won't have to have the reertifications 20, 30, 40 years down the road with that item. So,
just again something to think of, but uh, >> I know you're an engineer and you're going to disagree with me. No, I'm not disagreeing. The challenge is not really the method of crossing a body of water. It rests with the ownership of the body of water. If you might go in there with a cover, they said no, for maintenance
purposes, they want you to put a bridge so that the boats can easily go in and uh do some kind of uh improvement in terms of desalting the the canals. So most of the canals we have in the city is either county or water management district. So they don't belong to us.
>> Understood. But I seem use cranes to lift the boats in and out of the canals over the bridges now. So they'd still have to lift it over the roadway. >> We we are we're looking at every alternative. Yeah. And and we actually also discussed it with South Florida, but as the manager mentioned, it's not
likely that they will approve it, but you know, when you discuss it with them, they they like to think that yeah, yeah, propose it. But they will most likely want a bridge. and the vertical uh clearance that they want from the water. Um
it's it's pretty high. I I recently called someone from the county uh a friend of mine and he sent me the bridge they just built on 136 Street um over in Color Bay and he told me that one of the biggest challenges that they had was actually the vertical clearance and
permitting with South Florida Water Management District. Yeah. But we are hiring for an engineer and that was a good idea if you're interested. >> Oh, >> does that conclude the presentation?
>> Oh, yes. So, >> so Mayor Council, I want to place on the record our appreciation of the support that we've been receiving from Congressman Carlos Himenez for federal funding and uh county commissioner Cohen
Higgins on the county side uh that we made progress with the mobility impact fee because her office took it as a personal challenge to assist and I believe we are scheduled for another set of meetings with the county on that with her office. Yeah.
Great. Any further questions or comments from council? Okay. Hearing none, do we have a motion to approve the uh transportation master plan? Moved by Councilman Cannibal. >> Second by councilwoman Ksky. All in favor? >> So, this is a motion to place it on the
next council meeting. >> Place it on the agenda. Council agenda for approval. All in favor? I. >> Any opposed? >> All right. Thank you, Kyo. >> Thank you very much. Appreciate it. >> All right. If there are no objections, let's jump to the uh to tab um seven.
Mr. Pearl, I think you've got a resolution for tab 7. Tab 7 is a resolution of the mayor and the city uh council of the city of Homestead Florida approving an interlocal agreement with Miami Dade County relating to the publication of legal advertisements. I'm sorry, that's step four.
I was I was staying in order. I apologize. A resolution of the city council of the city of Homestead, Florida, authorizing the city's participation in the Cypus Soho program to be implemented at Somerset South Homestead Elementary Charter School, authorizing the city manager and his design to take such actions as may be
necessary to implement the city's participation in the program, providing for implementation, and providing for an effective date. >> Very good. Um, Mr. Manager, is this a presentation by the chief? >> Yes, this is going to be handled by the chief. Mayor and council, good evening. This is
uh this is something actually we're pretty excited about and that is the uh partnering and what we're seeking is approval to partner with Civica who's offering a clear vocational pathway into public safety. Uh this is not just for police. Uh this is eventually going to
be for dispatchers. It's going to be for CSAs probably eventually even for fire rescue. It's a program that was modeled after what they're doing in Hyia. We've been we started exploring this idea several months ago and I have to say that I'm I'm really impressed with how
fast they put this all together and I thought that the best person to answer technical questions uh if there are any is the principal of Civica who's the representative that's here please come forward and introduce yourself >> good evening and welcome
Let's get the microphone turned on. >> Okay. >> Can you hear me now? >> Yes. >> All right. I am Laida Morales, the principal of Civica Soho and the principal of Somerset Academy South Homestead Elementary, which is both here in just
>> right here, >> two blocks away. >> Do you guys want me to do the presentation or am I just answering questions? >> Whatever you'd like to tell us about the project. >> Okay. Did it come up or >> apparently it wasn't transmitted? No
presentation. >> What's not? >> No. >> No. >> Okay. Wow. This is it. This is great, guys. Thank you so much. I've never been put on the spot like this, but I'm super excited. So, our mission is um really to
to just focus not just on the academics of the of the children that we have, but it's to build a strong character and get them ready for college and careers. So, everything that we do is grounded on the principles of honor, respect, and loyalty. So, like the chief said, um
this has been a program that started back in 2008. In 2020, Civica started their network and now in 2026, Civica will be here in Homestead. So, the closest uh public a
public um safety, you know, police readiness program is over 30 miles away, which is Coia and the Florida Memorial School that's downtown. So, honestly, our students here in Homestead don't have direct access to a
program like this until now. And we are starting two differentmies this, you know, this time around. Um, we'll be adding more in the future, but right now we're starting with education. As we all know, we are in need of teachers. So, by the time they graduate, they'll be able to become preschool teachers, and we are
starting with the uh criminal justice academy. So when the students graduate, they'll be able to finish either um their certification in uh PSA, which here you guys call it CSA, I believe, and they can also do the dispatchers. So
they'll be able to start in the workforce right away. So here the students have the the ability to finish in those career pathways. We will be adding more in the future like aggra science. If you guys have passed by Soho, um we're starting that program. We also have medical like the chief said
fire and several others. So right now um the partnership with the city of Homestead is essential because we won't be able to do what we need to do if it's not for the Homestead Police Department. Our students will have the ability to be mentored by police
officers. They'll be able to have uh direct leadership. um we'll be able to have them create relationships and move forward into their um you know being skilled certified uh individuals that will give back to
the city of Homestead. So not only are we building the students up, but they will be coming back to give back to the city. So that's pretty much it. >> Well, thank you council. Questions, comments? Councilman Fletcher? >> Yes. Thank you for the opportunity you brought forward to us and thank you to
the chief. Uh it's an awesome time to to be a student now to get those early early buyins to these programs. Uh which I understand now is going to lead to possible some internships with the city. >> Yes. >> But I'd also like you to take a look at general government operations. U you
know people a lot of people don't know about city clerks and >> and other departments. So something to take a look at in the future expand the program. >> Yes. Yes. We're definitely looking into all the different options. I know that like skill trade is something that has kind of been lost. So, we're going to be adding that in as well.
>> Awesome. Thank you again. >> Thank you, mayor. Yes. Very exciting. Um, I think my only question is what are your age ranges because I thought you were just elementary. >> So, we will be having a middle school and high school as part of Civic. So home right now we will be nested within
Somerset Academy South Homestead which is an elementary which is a K5 but we will be adding that component and we'll be gradually adding the grade levels year after year. So we'll start with six and 9 and then the following year 67 9 10 6 7 8 9 10 11 and then 12th grade.
>> Okay. And that'll start this coming school year. >> Yes ma'am. >> August 2026. >> You'll share some information with us. I'm sure you'll have new pamphlets to go out to share with families. >> Absolutely. We have all of that. We will gladly give it to all of you. >> Okay. We were very confused during the briefings. I was like, I know it's an elementary school. Yes.
>> Um I love the young ones learning things, but okay, that makes a lot more sense. Congratulations. >> Thank you. >> Very exciting. Thank you. >> Thank you. >> Thank you. >> Questions further. >> Okay. So, let's have a motion to place this on the council agenda. >> I move it.
>> Moved by uh Cannibal, second by Vice Mayor Bailey. All in favor? >> Any opposed? All right. While y'all are here, if we get somebody to move the podium and have y'all come up, >> you've earned at least a picture. We'll
stand you here. We'll stand behind you and uh memorialize your uh >> program, >> your initiation into uh boring council meetings. share with us to do. >> Let me ask you something.
>> Yes. >> When they finish training, >> those credits apply for them to continue with the studies. >> Yeah. So, the goal is to get them to go and get their academy training
certificate and then >> All right. So, let's turn around and we'll let uh our super duper photographer Nolan uh work his magic. Anybody else need to come down? Thank you all. Thank you.
>> Thank you, Nolan. >> All right, going back to tab four, Mr. Pearl. Tab four was a resolution of the mayor and city council of the city of Homestead Florida approving an interlocal agreement with Miami date county relating to the publication of legal advertisements and public notices
on Miami date county's publicly accessible website providing for authorization providing for an effective date >> by moved by Councilman Fletcher second by Councilman Cannibal. Any objection to waving any further report on this tonight? All right, it's been moved and
seconded to place on the council agenda. All in favor? >> Any opposed? Moving on to tab five. Tab five is a resolution of the city council of the city of Homestead, Florida, approving the first amendment to the addendum increasing the scope of work for the procurement and installation of epoxy flooring at
Harrisfield Park by Gel Unlimited DBA, Miracle Method of Miami North in the amount of not to exceed $177,910 plus a city manager contingency allowance up to 10% of the total project cost utilizing the interlocal purchasing
system here and after referred to as TIPS RCSP 2401. 10401 agreement exempting the purchase from competitive bidding pursuant to section 2-41.185 of the city code authorizing the city manager to execute all necessary documents providing for implementation
providing for an effective date. >> Thank you sir. >> All right. Vice mayor moves it. Cannonball seconds it >> with a quick question please. Mayor. Yes. >> Does it include the stage? >> I would Okay. Good. Wanted to make sure >> briefly indicated that. Is this the same
company that did the kitchen? It >> is. Okay. Um, has the color been chosen yet? >> So, the color has not been chosen. Um, we do have a slide of of five like finalist colors that we have for recommendation if it's something you
guys would like to look at. >> Personally, I would. I mean, I understand the kitchen is nice and bright and white, but every scuff, every speck of dirt, perhaps something in a little bit darker out in the uh in the public area. Just a thought.
>> All right. So, >> maybe even the kitchen's the floor in the kitchen's too bright for for the other area. >> Yeah, it's exactly where where our minds were heading because we know there's more foot traffic on the on the exterior in the event space. Um, so here you'll see kind of
the the ones that don't go too dark. So our our first one, this is tough to see from the color from here, but this is called thunder. So this one has some dark blues, gray and white in the mix of flakes.
The next one is smoky blue. So it gets a little bit darker and more blue. Sorry, I I think I I clicked the wrong one up there. this. We're on fog gargoyle. How do I go backwards? There we go. There we go. So, we said thunder.
So, smoky blue. So, this one has more more light blues, dark blue. Fog is is more there's no blue in this one. This one's more darker grays. And then I don't believe this one had any black. Gargoyle is all dark dark gray more
charcoal type colors and white. And then we have wombat that has black, white, and gray specs. >> Do you have actual samples? >> We don't have real We don't have actual samples. I can request them. you can determine.
>> So, so C may and council, this is simply for you to place it on the agenda. So, what we can do before the April 22nd meeting >> get the actual samples for you to select. >> Please do >> these five. >> Yes, >> if I may. There's so much wood, you
know, that's it feels like old homestead. And maybe it would be nice to see some specks of brown in the floor as well. >> A brownish palette. Yeah. Okay. >> We'll request some samples with that. Very good. All right. So, did we vote? We did. All in favor?
>> Any opposed? All right. Moving on to tab six. Tab six is a resolution of the city council of the city of Homestead Florida approving an addendum to the state of North Carolina NASPO Value Point Master Agreement with Civic Initiatives LLC for
procurement assistance and support services exempting the procurement from competitive bidding in accordance with section 2-41.12B of the city code authorizing the city manager to execute all necessary documents renewals and to approve a price adjustment of up to 10% providing
for implementation providing for an effective date. >> All right. Anybody want to move this item? Moved by Councilman Fletcher. Second by Councilman Cannibal. Is there any objection to waving the staff report on this item? Are there any questions or comments from
council on tab six? Hearing none, we have a motion and a second to place this on the council agenda. All in favor? >> Any opposed? That takes us to tab eight. Tab eight is a resolution of the city
council of the city of Homestead, Florida, accepting a donation of gym equipment from the Fraternal Order of Police for the city of Homestead Police Department in an amount not to exceed $30,853.50 providing for implementation providing for an effective date. >> Have a motion on this item moved by
Councilman Cannibal. >> Second. >> Second by Vice Mayor Bailey. Any further questions or comments on this item with respect to the donation of uh gym equipment? Hearing none. All in favor?
>> Any opposed? Moving on to tab nine. Tab nine is a resolution of the city council of the city of Homestead, Florida approving a first amendment to the cover agreement with Toshiba America Business Solutions, Inc. utilizing the state of Colorado master contract number
188037 as imple implemented by the state of Florida participating addendum through the alternative contract source number 44L 000000-24 NASPO ACS for the multi-function devices copers and related software and services
exempting the procurement from competitive bidding in accordance with section 2-411.1 of the city code authorizing the city manager to execute on necessary documents and to approve a price adjustment of up to 10% providing for implementation providing for an effective date. >> Thank you, sir. Do we have a motion on
this item? Moved by the vice mayor, seconded by Councilman Fletcher. There's no objection to the staff report. No further questions or comments. All in favor? Any opposed? Tab 10, Mr. Pearl. TAM 10 is a resolution of
the city council of the city of Homestead, Florida approving an addendum to the University of Nebraska Omnia Partners GPO ZNAT number 920002758 RFP number 3702-22-4618 agreement with Cintes Corporation number
two for workplace solutions exempting the procurement from competitive bidding in accordance with section 2-411.12B of the city code authorizes the city manager to execute all necessary docu documents and to approve a price adjustment of up to 10% providing for implementation and providing for an effective date.
>> Thank you, Mr. Pearl, and moved by Councilman Cannibal. A second by Vice Mayor Bailey. Any further questions or comments with respect to this item, procurement item. All right. All in favor of placing this
on council agenda? I. Any opposed? Moving on to tab 11. Tab 11 is a resolution of the city council of the city of Homestead uh Florida approving and adopting a law enforcement agency mutual aid agreement between the Florida Gaming Control Commission and the city
of Homestead to combat illegal gambling and related activities providing for an effective date. >> Thank you. Do we have a motion on this item? Moved by Council Fletcher. >> Second. >> Second by Councilman Cannibal. Any further questions or comments from
council on this item? Seeing none, all in favor of the motion to place this on our council agenda signify by saying I. Any opposed? And finally, tab 12, Mr. Pearl. >> A resolution of the city council of the city of Homestead Florida approving a
revocable license agreement with Legacy Basketball Academy providing for implementation providing for an effective date. >> Thank you. Moved by Councilman Fletcher. Question. You move second with a question. >> Sure. >> All right. Vice Mayor second with a
question and then councilwoman Avala. >> Thank you, Mayor. Um, I heard that the applicant is here. I was wondering if you'd like to say a little bit about your goals, the pals in my district. I am excited to see things happening there. So, I just wanted to hear a
little bit from you, please. >> Is the mic on? Is the podium mic on? >> Good evening. >> Welcome. Good evening. >> How you doing? How you doing? Do I get a PowerPoint or I'm going off the dome? >> If you said one, you've got one.
>> All right, I'm I'm gonna pull it up here. >> Just a little bit about what what you've done in the past. I know you guys have been around for a while. What your goals are with the PAL. Just wanted to learn a little more. >> Yes, ma'am. Um well, good evening, council mayor. Um yeah, so um I mean uh
my name is David Baramento Jr. Um I'm the director of Legacy Basketball Academy. Uh it's been around for about I'll say 25 plus years. Um I am the son of the founder um that you know started this whole thing and um you know to even
talk about legacy I have to talk about my father because uh he set the foundation um and um you know impacted the community in many ways uh was able to uh you know there's there's actually adults here that that were you know were
under my father at a very young age um and now have reached um some success in their life um and and I'm sure they and credit my father uh for for their uh guidance and um in growing up as a man. So um you know legacy is a little bit
more than just a basketball program. Um you know we focus on you know just developing the kids in the area that may not have that guidance and and you know that that structure or that mentorship um you know around so um you know we're here to you know kind of partner with
the facility of Homestead PAL. Uh, I actually was part of the Homestead PAL when I was younger. Um, in my PowerPoint, I had a little uh news news uh paper where uh they kind of featured some kids and and I was on that newspaper. Uh, and that's part of where
I got my love for basketball. Uh, my father is originally a football coach, but I told him I like basketball because of the PAL um that summer camp. Uh uh but yeah, we're here just to you know um to bring structure uh uh our structure program and kind of partner with the
facility uh to kind of bring you know what we're doing already uh and bring it to homestead you know where you know I grew up at you know and and you know kind of have a full circle moment where I can be with do what my father did for for other kids. That's pretty much it. Uh um you know some of the things we do
uh we we have uh two days out the week uh we train for about 3 hours uh we break it out through age group um and um pretty much just teach the fundamentals of basketball uh and you know not just that but just discipline on the other side of it and um yeah and we're just
trying to bring that to to Homestead. >> What ages are you serving? >> Uh we we go from ages we're now actually accepting a little younger age around age six. uh from 6:00 to 8:17. >> Okay. Well, please don't be a stranger.
I've got two amazing committees also that I'm over that specifically want the best for the Southwest area. So, any way that we can help you celebrate tournaments or uniform needs or children that might not be able to afford um
their fees. Okay. >> Yes, ma'am. We do have scholarships as well that we we offer um you know a lot of our kids um you know we we give scholarships to um to provide them you know opportunity to play in our in our program. >> Good luck. >> Thank you.
>> No, thank you. Don't run off. We've got I think a question from Councilwoman Avala. >> Thank you very much. Just uh I look forward to seeing the progress and the uh amazing impact you're going to have with the students that will be participating in your program. Uh but I do have some questions with regards to
how the how your um program will um work in conjunction with the PAL program and that probably is more more appropriate for for Chief Knap to answer but thank you for your presentation. >> Yes ma'am. >> Yeah the uh so what we're doing is we're renting spaces in the PAL. Um so it
wouldn't be unheard of to even have a different program or different programming within the PAL even at the same time because we have different rooms for everything. So, uh, it's not going to conflict with it at all. As a matter of fact, I think it's going to We've had conversations about possibly
extending it to PAL and not so much legacy does and running it in parallel. >> Yeah, I think I'm I'm following the the way that it'll work out. Between now and the council meeting, I'd like to have a deeper briefing on PAL overall. And I do believe that over the years it um it it
needed more funding in general. So, this will help. I'm assuming the the lease agreement will directly fund PAL, correct? >> The PAL. >> It'll help. Yeah, it'll help fund it. And not only that, but we're looking for programming that does support the same. So, we have that big building. A lot of
people are trying to do projects there and we're realizing that we can rent it. >> Okay. Thank you. I'll rest there. >> Yeah, it sounds like we're going on the path of being more self-supporting. >> Good. Did we have a motion on that? Yes, we did.
>> Okay. Moved by C by Vice Mayor Bailey, second by Councilwoman Avala to place this item on the council agenda. All in favor? >> Any opposed? Mr. Attorney, any further business? >> Okay, Mr. Manager, I'm not going to cut
you off. >> Yeah, mayor and council, the deputy city manager Kimbran is currently traveling to receive an award on behalf of the city. Tyler Technology is the um software entity that is providing EPL, electronic
plans review. Out of the 130 cities and counties nationwide, Homestead is one of the few that has been declared a winner in terms of the speed, the accuracy, and the rollout mission of the EPL program.
>> I know they're giving us a plaque. And uh another good news is I may have shared this already with you that Miami date county courthouse has indicated interest in reloc reestablishing a location in homestead. So this week on
Friday the chief judge has informed me via email that she will be coming down here to visit and uh I probably will be briefing council right after the briefing. uh she's going to be here at 11:00
in the morning. And uh also on your calendar, we do have that the SAP is going to open on Friday with limited uh presence of city officials and then to the public on Saturday,
April the 11th. Sapas is the is the restaurant by Loznner Park that council had also assisted with CRA funding. Uh the annual hurricane distribution preparedness drive is being scheduled
for June 6. Uh this is with respect to giving out hurricane uh materials to city residents through global empowerment mission. Uh it's going to be at the Harrisfield. We did one last year as well. And uh if you step out of the building, out of city hall, you might
notice a different type of lighting. This is a pilot program being tested what works based on council directive to see if we can have different types of shades of light to kind of uh illuminate the walls of city hall. So we have a vendor that is trying out some of the
lighting and see what works and what doesn't work. This Saturday is Bonanza which is the annual cleanup campaign for all the beayores in the county. Uh the one down south is going to be at the bayfront park and uh council and mayor are
welcome to participate and uh again another piece of good news an aerospace company is relocating to homestead in the park of commerce. So we found out online and we engaged with them. So we're working with them to assist them to facilitate their
relocation as well. uh actually in coming to Homestead they are more than quadrupling their workforce currently about 10 employees but they're coming here to establish at least 100 employees down here. Uh and of course we are working based on
council directive. We're working with Richard P Hall EOS foundation on the homestead 10 program. It's already being posted online on social media. want to sustain the media presence till the event which comes up in December.
Uh I think that's all I have for now for council. If anything comes up we'll let you know via email. Thank you. >> Thank you Mr. Manager. With that we have a motion to adjurnn. >> Moved. >> Seconded. All in favor? I. Thank you
all. Thanks for coming out. Good night. See you. Hi, I'm Phoebe Ignasho. I'm the co-owner of Plur Tea. >> My name is Jason Lyola. I'm her husband and we are the owners of Plur Tea. So, we mostly specialize on boba tea. So, we
brought the Plur Tea, our concept, boba and the Korean corn dogs to this area and people seem to love it. It's a concept based on the American corn dog, but instead of batter, pancake batter, we they use a real actual dough and it's
coated with different coatings of flavors from hot Cheetos to fries to Takis and our own other types of recipes. This is our first event actually, but um it's a surprise for us
cuz um it's been doing really well to us. We met different like vendors, the community, the officials. They're very uh it's been very very effective event for us. >> Plur is participating in the city's
Discover Homestead Winter Wonderland Experience seasonal event. If you're interested in becoming a vendor, email us at special events@omesteadfl.gov. >> Summer is here and with it comes extra cost to keeping it cool. With extra electrical demand to cool our homes and
businesses, it's up to all of us to do our part to reduce peak demand by avoiding the use of major appliances during the day and using eco settings when available. setting your thermostat to 78° while away, waiting until your dishwasher or laundry is full to run the
cycle, and using energy efficient light bulbs and fixtures. For tips on how to save money and cool your home efficiently, visit homesteadfl.gov/heat. There's always a lot going on in the Garcia's kitchen, and most of it was wasting energy. So, they dusted off the
coils on the fridge, started running full loads in the dishwasher, and turning the heated dry switch to air dry. With the money they saved, they'll be able to replace that inefficient 10-year-old fridge with a new Energy Star qualified fridge that will save enough electricity to light their house
for 4 months. But they didn't stop there. Oh no, the GarcAs were on a roll. They turned their water heater from a scalding 140° down to 120, which will help slow mineral buildup and save energy. For maximum energy savings, they're considering a new hybrid heat
pump water heater. They weren't done just yet. The laundry room was the next energy robber that had to be tackled. When they heard heating water is 90% of the energy a washer uses, they went into action. Now they use cold water for washing and set their dryer cycle to
automatically use the energy efficient setting. Brought to you by your local municipal electric utility and the Florida Municipal Power Agency. It's up to all of us to keep Homestead beautiful. Starting in our own backyard,
everyone's quality of life depends on the things we do at home, like taking the time to recycle or simply mowing the lawn. If you see something in your neighborhood, you can report overgrown grass, bulk trash violations, or unsafe housing to City of Homestead code
compliance by calling 3052245580. Together, we can keep our community clean for today and tomorrow. >> Looking for your next opportunity? The city of Homestead is hiring and you can be part of a great team. Whether you're starting out or looking to grow your
career, we have part-time and full-time positions available across multiple departments. Enjoy great benefits, a supportive team, and the chance to make a difference right here in the South Florida community. From development services to finance and budget, from parks to police, there's a place for
everyone at the city of Homestead. We're hiring for everything from entry-level roles to leadership positions. Ready to join the team? Head to homesteadfl.gov. /job and apply today. Fore
beautiful. My name is Chef Alden Chance. I'm from Chopper Hills. Trope Rose is a fusion of cultures blend together to make one cuisine. We represent out of many one cuisine. We represent Haiti, Dominican
Republic, Jamaica, Cuba, and Puerto Rico. We're the industry's first and only fully cooked Caribbean sushi joint. We have any everything ranging from jerk chicken sushi roll, grill sushi roll, eligreo,
where you have mangu, quesoprito, the spicy chisso, the vakafita. I think being out here in Homestead at this event, the winter wonderland, I think it's a great experience because we we bridge the gap. We're able to bridge the gap amongst the community and bring
everyone together under one roof. And it's our job as vendors to really bring the community out and bring everyone together. >> Troppy Rolls is participating in the city's Discover Homestead Winter Wonderland Experience seasonal event. If
you're interested in becoming a vendor, email us at special events@ homesteadfl.gov. >> Homestead Public Services is excited to introduce our new enhanced customer service process to make your power and water connections happen the same day.
Follow this simple checklist. Submit your request, make your payment, and attach the required documents by noon. Our new system streamlines the entire process for faster, smoother service. We've also provided a document checklist to guide you every step of the way. And
if you need in-person assistance, our dedicated window at city hall is available to help. We're here to make your next move easier starting today. Hello, Homestead. I'm your mayor, Steve Lawner, and it is truly my honor to
welcome you to the 2025 state of the city. But before we begin, I want to take a moment to thank my colleagues on the Homestead City Council. Their dedication, collaboration, and leadership have been instrumental in
every achievement we are about to share. Together, we are shaping a city that truly reflects the spirit of its people. I want to take you on a journey through the past years to reflect on all that we've accomplished together as a
community. From strengthening partnerships and improving quality of life to building infrastructure, growing our economy, and modernizing city hall. These last few years have been a time of progress built on teamwork and vision.
Let's take a journey through the five pillars of our brand new strategic plan. The foundation of how we've shaped Homestead's future. And it all begins where progress always begins, with the people. Let's start with engagement. The
years 2024 and 25 in Homestead have been about opening doors and building connections. Together, we developed and adopted our first ever 5-year strategic plan. A road map created with your
voices, your priorities, and your vision for the future of our city. We've expanded the ways we listen and engage. From conversations with the community, public meetings to our growing presence on social and traditional media, and
through the launch of Homestead Insider, our monthly digital newsletter. We're making sure residents are more informed and more involved than ever. We've also made it easier to access vital services such as mobile DMV visits, bringing
critical state services directly to our community. With the help of Miami Dade's constitutional offices, Homestead residents can now take care of important property related tasks right here at home, including the new passport service
at our own city hall. Through programs like Homestead Cares, we've provided relief on utility bills, while partnerships with organizations like Workforce Miami and Career Source South Florida have created pathways for employers to attract local talent and
connect residents to new job opportunities. We also launched Ready Homestead, our emergency alert system designed to keep every resident informed and prepared when it matters most. Because engagement is about
communication, especially in times of need. As part of our commitment to a more connected and recognizable city, we adopted the citywide signage initiative, a comprehensive plan that establishes cohesive design standards for all
municipal wayfinding facility and gateway signage. Finally, we proudly introduce the America 250 branding initiative, setting the stage for our community to celebrate our nation's 250th birthday to showcase Homestead's
story of pride, resilience, and unity. This is what engagement looks like. A city government that's not just working for you, but working with you. Because when residents have a voice in shaping their city, they also help define what
kind of community in which they wish to live. The result is a homestead that's more connected, more responsive, and one that's improving quality of life in every neighborhood. When we talk about quality of life, we're talking about the
everyday moments that make Homestead a place where families thrive. This year, we invested nearly $2 million into our parks system. From the courts at JD Red Park to the reservicing at Woodcock Park and new improvements at the William F.
Dickinson Community Center and Harris Field, we're making sure our recreational spaces are safe, modern, and welcoming. We've also expanded our art in public places program, completing
five new installations that bring color and creativity to our neighborhoods. From two stunning murals of the Simol Theater to light fixture sculptures in the cyber, a statue at Loster Park forever memorializing the contributions
of William Chrome, and even utility box wraps. Art is transforming how we experience our community. Through grants and partnerships, we've brought in over $1.5 million to strengthen both our parks and recreation system and our
police department. That funding helped us launch new initiatives such as the crime suppression team keeping our neighborhoods safer. And of course, we're creating new traditions. The Winter Wonderland Experience Ice Rink
will bring 60 days of joy to families across South Florida. We've also advanced legislation to protect the character and cleanliness of our neighborhoods. Our updated sign cone modernizes city regulations to meet federal standards while improving safety
and aesthetics. The new recreational vehicle ordinance prevents illegal RV expansion and habitation on residential properties, preserving neighborhood integrity. And the shopping cart control plan now requires stores to keep carts
secured and retrieved, helping maintain cleaner public spaces all across Homestead. Of course, quality of life doesn't just happen. It's built on a strong foundation. Every park, every road, every system beneath our feet is
part of what keeps Homestead thriving. That's why investing in infrastructure remains one of our highest priorities. Infrastructure may not always grab headlines, but it is the backbone of our community. This year, we've invested
millions of dollars in the foundations that make Homestead work. We secured $9.3 million in grant funding and committed 9.2 $2 million in federal recovery dollars to strengthen our water, sewer, and storm water systems.
At pump station 22, we completed a major bypass project that not only lifted a county imposed moratorum, but also unlocks new opportunities for housing and businesses to connect. We commissioned critical infrastructure
master plans to ensure that as Homestead grows, we grow responsibly. And with more than $2 million invested through our capital improvement program, plus a state appropriation of over a million dollars, we are preparing our city for
the future. Transportation is also a priority. We adopted our transportation master plan, are updating our trolley routes to make the system more efficient, and install new traffic signals like the one at Centergate to
improve roadway safety. We have also taken important legislative steps to ensure Homestead grows responsibly and sustainably through the temporary development moratorum ordinance. We paused new
highdensity residential projects to carefully assess their impact on our water, sewer, transportation, and emergency systems. We also established a parks and roadway trust fund using proceeds from city assets to invest
directly in recreation, roadway, and utility improvements, thus guaranteeing accountability and reinvestment in our community. And by updating our fee structures across utilities, development, and permitting, we are
ensuring that growth pays for growth while keeping our infrastructure strong and our operations efficient. Homestead is not just growing. It's building smarter, stronger, and more resilient
every step of the way. These improvements don't just make our city stronger. They make it more attractive for businesses, visitors, and investors. Infrastructure is the groundwork, but what truly drives opportunity is
economic development. Homestead's future depends on creating opportunities that grow our economy and strengthen our identity. The most exciting milestone this year was the agreement for the sports performance hub. A
transformational privately funded $275 million investment that will bring worldclass sports facilities and economic growth to our city. Continuing that momentum, we're advancing redevelopment of the triangle
property, expanding the impact of this once in a generation opportunity across Homestead. Downtown itself is evolving. With the arrival of Flanigans at the old city hall site and the undergrounding of utilities, we are creating a vibrant hub
for dining, shopping, and entertainment. Downtown Homestead is open for business. And soon, our downtown will take another major step forward with a multi-million dollar improvement project along Chrome Avenue and Flaggler. This transformative
investment will bring new sidewalks, upgraded signage, and major public works enhancements, laying the groundwork for the downtown of the future. We're also preparing our residents for the jobs of tomorrow. With the support of a national
workforce grant, we launched a plan to strengthen local employment pathways. Events like Race to the Fourth brought record-breaking attendance, reminding us that Homestead is not just a great place to live, it's a destination for visitors
across South Florida. And with the upcoming launch of our revamped Discover Homestead brand, we're taking that message even further, showcasing our city's culture, events, and experiences to audience far beyond our borders. And
with the recognition of Homestead as spaceport territory, we are positioning ourselves as a hub in the global aerospace economy. The future of South Dade is right here, and Homestead is leading the way. None of this progress
would be possible without a city government capable of turning vision into action. Behind every new project, every investment, and every event is a dedicated team, ensuring Homestead runs
efficiently, transparently, and responsibly. Let's talk about internal operations. The appointment of city manager Zary Aayakquaba has been transformative for the city of Homestead, bringing a new professionalism, strategic focus, and an
expert leadership team dedicated to elevating city operations. Alongside Chief of Police Mario Knap, who is modernizing our public safety approach, this leadership has positioned Homestead for continued growth, innovation, and
success. We've been diligent in leveraging the institutional knowledge of our long tenur staff while welcoming new innovative ideas from fresh talent. We've also adopted forward-looking policies that strengthen our workplace
standards, enhance our business environment, and secure the future of our workforce through improved retirement plans. We also set new standards to ensure excellence in leadership. Through the educational and professional
standards for city leadership ordinance, we established formal qualifications for department directors and assistant directors defining clear requirements for education, certification, and experience. This ensures every division
of our government is led by professionals who embody accountability, expertise, and a commitment to public service. And speaking of operations, this year we launched electronic permitting and licensing system known as
EPL Build, making it easier than ever for residents, contractors, and businesses to work with the city. Additionally, we enhanced our digital capabilities with interactive GIS maps
and dashboards, improved recruitment with a new applicant tracking program, modernized how we run meetings with a new agenda management platform, and expanded free Wi-Fi to all of our parks, ensuring residents can stay connected
wherever they gather. We also created a community development and human services division to better serve our most vulnerable residents. Launch the concierge permitting to make development smoother and established minimum
insurance requirements to protect both the city and local businesses. From restructuring our organization to launching new tools for city staff like employee hub, this has been a year of
modernization and progress inside city hall. Every step forward from community engagement to infrastructure and innovation has been the work of a city united by purpose. Together we've built
momentum and we're just getting started. None of this would be possible without the leadership and partnership of my colleagues on the city council. Their dedication to our residents and this community continues to drive Homestead
forward. Together, we've made incredible progress. But the story does not end here. The best is yet to come. So tonight, I look forward to sharing with you not just where we've been, but where we are all going together as we continue
to build a stronger, safer, and more vibrant homestead. Why? Because the future lives here. Need help paying your electric bill? The city of Homestead is here to help.
Homestead Cares offers up to $500 a year in utility bill credits for eligible HPS customers facing temporary financial hardship. Applying is quick and easy. Visit homesteadfl.gov/cares. Fill out our online form. Make sure you
include all required documentation like proof of income, your photo ID, and your HPS utility bill. Submit your application and you're done. Assistance is given on a first come first- serve basis. So don't wait. Whether you're dealing with job loss, a medical
emergency, or unexpected expenses, Homestead Cares is here for you. For questions or help applying, contact our community development and human services division at cdhs at homesteadfl.gov or by calling 305224448.
In Homestead, parks aren't just places. They're part of our quality of life. From structural upgrades and renovations to refreshing family favorites, >> we're investing in every corner of our community to create safe, fun, and welcoming spaces for all.
>> At William F. Dickinson Community Center, roof repairs are done. And we installed new fencing and shade structures at the dog park at Mayor Rosco Warren Park. We're also resurfacing tennis, raetball, and basketball courts citywide. And don't
miss our brand new dedicated pickle ball courts at JD Red. In Rosco, we've enhanced our beach volleyball court with new nets, post pads, and even more sand for play. And we're lighting the way at Harrisfield Gymnasium with new LED
lighting and upgraded water fountains. We're also replacing our park fitness equipment at Ernestine Seymour and James Archer Smith Park. Plus, brand new playgrounds at Blakey Witop Ottabon Ernestine and more. We're upgrading
shade structures at JD Red and at Mayor Rosco Warren Park. We're upgrading the playground shade and building a large pavilion to offer more spaces to host your next family gathering. It's not just about spaces, it's about programs. From summer camps and youth leagues to
expanding senior programs at our community centers, and now every park and homestead has free public Wi-Fi. This is about creating a quality of life by enhancing healthy spaces, accessible spaces, beautiful and inviting spaces
leading to active lifestyles and a stronger community. >> Because when we build better parks, we build a better homestead, one that people choose not only to live in and enjoy, but also are proud to call home.
A stronger community starts with better parks. And here in Homestead, we're just getting started. Homestead. The future lives here. The city of Homestead is serving up fun, fitness, and community spirit with the grand reopening of the newly renovated
tennis and pickle ball courts at JD Red Park. On Friday, May 2nd, families, neighbors, and players of all levels came together to celebrate the transformation of one of Homestead's most iconic parks. The project includes resurfaced courts, new spectator
seating, on-site Wi-Fi, and permanent equipment that makes playing easier than ever. So, we're so glad to be able to bring this long overdue renovation and expansion of the tennis courts, the pickle ball sports here at Jay-Z Red Park to bring it to fruition. Pickle
ball is just sweeping the country. Homestead is no exception. The courts are packed every evening. It's opposing time at night. This is just another amenity for our community to to keep up with the times. >> We are so excited. We just unveiled our
pickle ball courts here in the city of Homestead. We are very happy for our residents. This is a great addition to our parks and to our community. >> We have six dedicated pickle ball courts. We have six dedicated tennis courts. The back course has six blended lines, but we can have up to 12 pickle
ball courts going. This is a great park for the community. It's a hub of activities. As you can see, it's filled with families, people of all ages playing here. Um, we hope that everybody comes out and enjoy. >> Pickle ball is the fastest growing sport in America and Homestead's right in the game.
>> To be a trainer and to be able to have six permanent courts and not to have to pull out those rolling nets and have everything here except for us is a dream. It's pretty a dream a drink cocktail. >> These courts are bringing new energy to
JD Red Park every evening with extended park hours until 1000 p.m. For many neighbors, this upgrade is more than just courts. It's a connection point. >> I'm a youth minister uh leader of my group at First Baptist Church Homestead. We always looking to play. We play at
our church, but our church is not really outfitted for us. So, having courts right here in this community is a great idea, is a great benefit to our community. Having additional pinball courts here, it allows the community do their exercise, come out at night, you
know, have the camaraderie with the community and neighbors, and just have a lot of fun. JD Red Park is once again a vibrant center for activity, energy, and connection. To learn more about the city of Homestead Parks, Recreation, and Open
Spaces Department, visit homesteadfl.gov/parks. Meet Jorge and Lupe Lugo, recipients of the Homestead CRA residential grant. >> Well, they fixed up that they put the new roof, which we're very glad because it was too old. And they also fixed the
garage door, which it we couldn't I mean, it has to be hold by stack otherwise it will fall on us. It was very dangerous. We have a new one, which is great. Thank to Malika that help us, you know,
with the program and we're so happy now about her. Thank you to the CR Homestead. We're very pleased and we're so happy and I really thank them. much. >> If you're interested in the residential
facade program, contact the Homestead CRA by emailing CRA grants at homesteadfl.gov or call 3052244486 to learn more. The city of Homestead is proud to introduce EPL Build, our electronic
permitting and licensing system. A total revamp of the way we work with you. EPL Build is an innovative integrated online platform that streamlines how residents, businesses, and contractors interact with city departments for permitting, licensing, and code compliance needs.
Now you can submit applications, upload documents, and track progress all in one place. >> And you can do it anytime from anywhere through homesteadfl.gov/all things build. >> Residents and business owners have a wide range of powerful new tools. These
include code compliance ticketing, notices of violation, and unsafe structure processes along with a citywide online payment and cashiering solution. Users will also benefit from electronic plan review through Digiplan for faster simultaneous reviews across
departments as well as online contractor registration. >> And you'll be able to check the status of your permit online and schedule requested inspections. In addition, the system will support public works right-of-way permits, water and sewer hydraulic analysis requests, HPS energy
disconnect and reconnect requests, lobbyist registration, and numerous residential and commercial building permit applications, all available in one convenient online platform. Whether you're applying for a permit, submitting plans, requesting inspections, or paying
a fee, the EPL Build System is your one-stop shop for doing business with the city of Homestead quickly, securely, and efficiently. Getting started is simple. Just visit homesteadfl.gov/pluild, create your account, and you are ready
to go to work. With the launch of EPLLB Build, the future of permitting and licensing in Homestead is here. Making your experience faster, smarter, and easier than ever before. The city of Homestead is committed to maintaining the highest standard of service and
quality to address your needs. >> The City of Homestead, the future lives here. Today, March 2nd, 2026, marks the official start of construction for a project that will transform our dear city of Homestead and South Dade.
>> It's more than a big deal. We cannot overstate the impact that this will have for decades on our community and and regionally. This will really help put Homestead on the map. Be part of the
greater Miami community. People will come here. We will truly be another destination in in greater South Florida. >> The Sports Performance Hub is very ambitious in scope. It's a professional training academy. It's a youth boarding
school. It's a public recreation space, a stadium, a hotel, and a sports medicine and surgery center. >> And we are looking forward to fulfill our expectations and the community's expectations. So, it's exciting. It's an
amazing challenge. And we are looking forward. >> This truly groundbreaking for Homestead, an exciting day. Not only are we giving to the community, so many hands involved here, creating job, creating an environment that is so new and cutting edge for Homestead. So, it's exciting
time. >> This is going to be perfect. And I think it's the energy that we brought to the group, it was pretty much essential for us to become what we are today 3 years back. So, we thank you. >> No, thank you. This is this is what
happens when public product come together. It's what happens to the visionary meets the community. Dan, you're about to see something that the world has been waiting for. >> What if Miami could become a true hub for multiport development? What if young athletes didn't have to leave to pursue
excellence, but could build it right here, right here at home and in our community? We appreciate everybody's turnout. What a fantastic day to celebrate Homestead. Homestead rocks and the future lives here. Have you ever seen spray paint markings
on the bulk trash pile? There's a reason for that. >> It's part of how we track and tackle illegal dumping. These markings are part of the city of Homestead's efforts to keep our community clean, safe, and informed. Our co- compliance officers now use spray paint to identify bulk
piles and illegal dumping that have already been inspected. >> That's right. Whether it's waiting on a pickup from the solid waste department or the property owner is working on compliance. >> A marked pile means the issue is being handled. >> So if you see a trash pile marked with
orange paint, rest assured we're working on it. If you don't see any marks, let us know and we'll fix it. Report illegal dumping and other issues at our mobile app. fixit homestead or by visiting homesteadfl.gov/fixit. My name is Rodney Royal and I'm an
artist and muralist. I'm a selftaught taught artist born and raised right here in Miami, Florida. Um, I was a kid in school. I was always, you know, drawing sometimes when I shouldn't have been drawing. My technique is I kind of merge
two things together. There's a, you know, the abstract graffiti side to it, but also there's a realism side to it. That's why you see my work have are depictions of, you know, everyday people. I love my people. I I love everyone, but I I love I love painting
us, you know. Um, and I think representation matters. You know, all of my work is done pretty much 95% in spray paint with a little house paint. Those are the two mediums that I use. And a lot of times when I'm maybe talking to a group of
kids about what I do that the one question they love to ask me is, um, what's the favorite piece that I've done? And the answer I always give is, I haven't done it yet. I try to make the next piece better than the last piece. So I always try to get better. I have a
a big appreciation to the city of Homestead and Siminal Theater, you know, asking me to be the artist in spotlight. You know, this is my first solo show that I've done. And I've done many shows, but this is the first one that
is, you know, all of my my work. I'm I'm beyond thankful for this for this moment, for this event. And when they told me the work was going to be up for 3 months, that was another I was like, "Wow, really?" I say, "So, you know, like nothing but thank you. Thank you.
Thank you to the city of Homestead." >> Don't miss the Rodney Royal exhibition at the Seminal Theater on display through May 24th. Stay up todate with upcoming events at visit.discoverhomestead.com. Homestead came together for a healthier future. Our first annual community
health and wellness fair was a huge success. Hundreds of residents joined us for free screenings, wellness education, family fun, and resources to stay healthy all year round. Thank you so much. Thank you to the city. Thank you to all of the volunteers that were here
today. It was amazing. Me and my family had a blast. Okay, my mom danced the whole way through and so we're super super grateful for events like this and super grateful um for the hands that pour out into the community. So excited for the next one. Thank you guys so much.
>> Thank you to our amazing healthcare providers and community organizations for making this possible. Together, we're building a healthier homestead. Stay tuned for more community events at homesteadfl.gov/events. In the city of Homestead, where the
future lives, Homestead Regional Park is rising, blending our rich past with bold new opportunities for South Dade. Homestead has always believed in big dreams. In the mid 1980s, Homestead had envisioned the regional park as an
engine of economic opportunity, striking a deal with the Cleveland Major League Baseball team to host spring training games. But Andrew devastated the stadium and though it was rebuilt, the team walked away. >> So, let's talk a little bit about Hurricane Andrew and how it impacted
Homestead and Homestead Regional Park, >> for better or worse. And we we try not to any longer be the victims of Hurricane Andrew, but we can never
not mark time in before and after. And those of us who were here don't have to say Andrew, we say the hurricane and everyone knows what you're talking about. >> The Homestead Regional Park remained in use, but it never soared. With baseball,
softball, and soccer fields, it continued to serve the community, but its true potential remained unexplored. For years, the city searched for funding and explored ideas to revitalize the site. There was a plan on the table, but limited funding options until now.
Homestead wasn't searching for a grant proposal, but it found us anyway. In May 2025, the city received a proposal from VSGS facilities for the redevelopment of Homestead Regional Park. I was thrilled,
excited, and impressed when I believe I received the first written formal request for availability of real estate in Homestead, which coincidentally is the city of Homestead, what we call the Homestead Regional Park, uh, aka
previously known as Homestead, uh, sports complex. The letter was short, but it was very thrilling in terms of what the details comprised of. They were seeking permission to utilize the city's uh regional park as the future home of
what they call the Homestead Regional Park Soccer Academy/ the sports hub. >> This is not just a sports complex. It's a $275 million privately funded regional park.
No cost to the city, all benefit to the community. Currently, the Homestead Regional Park has four baseball fields, two softball fields, and one large soccer green space. The new Homestead Regional Park will feature a 10,000 seat multi-use
stadium, a 100 room hotel, and an expansive sports campus that includes six professional soccer fields, six multi-purpose fields, and 12 half-size fields. The development also brings new baseball fields, basketball courts,
volleyball courts, and dedicated spaces for tennis, paddle, and pickle ball. At its core, it's a premier youth sports academy with dormitories, classrooms, and indoor training facilities. The project will also include a community
hub and a dedicated kids park. >> When preparation meets an opportunity, it's almost as if it's happening in real time fast. Uh these guys were prepared. They knew what they wanted and the city of Homestead successfully put together based on
council direction uh a negotiation team that engaged, facilitated, and make sure that the negotiation was fasttracked. >> Homestead Regional Park is more than a sports destination. It's an investment in the city's future and the quality of
life of its residents. Designed to serve generations to come, it offers worldclass facilities while honoring what makes Homestead unique. That's why it will proudly serve as the new home of the Homestead Championship Rodeo, a beloved tradition that has brought the
community together for decades. This project embraces progress without leaving our roots behind. >> Well, what was your impression when you saw the deal for the park? So this was a real win for us. When we sat down at the negotiating table, there were the three
overriding issues for us were public access, a home for the rodeo, and financial fairness for the city. >> In the past, promises weren't kept. This time, we asked the hard questions. Do we have guarantees? Who's really behind
this $275 million project? The answer, some of the biggest stars in soccer, basketball, tennis, and more. Juan Sebastian Bon, Argentine soccer legend. Manu Jenobili, NBA Hall of Famer. Dario
Salah, former professional goalkeeper and CEO of VSGS. Juan Monaco, former top 10 ATP tennis player, and a group of elite athletes and top investors. Together they form VSGS Sports Performance Hub.
>> SPH is more than a project. It's a movement that unites a sport, community, and education. And we are really proud that it begins here in Homestead. >> This isn't just a dream. It's a movement
led by global icons. Now, what else does the city get from this deal? A lot more than worldclass facilities. Homestead will receive millions of dollars in rent over an 80-year ground lease, plus all property taxes generated by the site. The city will also share in ticket
revenue from stadium events, hotel room share, and even revenue from naming rates. >> We're going to increase revenues for our local businesses and hotels. Uh we're going to have, you know, top-of-the-line sports facilities uh for not only uh the
operator, but for our residents to use as well. On top of that, the agreement includes dedicated city days, and significant infrastructure improvements, upgrades to electric, water, and sewer systems, new access roads, expanded
parking, and worldclass park amenities that will be brand new to our community. It's a long-term agreement that guarantees a steady, sustainable flow of income, reinvesting private success into public benefit. >> None of the investment dollars is coming
from our city budget. is all privately investments. And uh when you look at this, you say, "My goodness, this is what we call a proper and realistic public-f facing public private partnership that has under the belt.
what we consider the best and highest use for a taxpayer where your tax dollars is not being invested but you will be the direct beneficiary of the completed public facility. >> The Homestead Regional Park is a
gamecher not just for recreation but for jobs, quality of life and national visibility. The project is expected to generate more than 4,300 construction jobs and over 600 permanent positions once completed. It will also create
additional tax revenue and spark a major economic ripple effect that will benefit local businesses, schools, and families for years to come. >> We have the motorsports complex. We have the park of commerce right here. Uh this is where South Date is growing and this
is going to be the center of Miami Date County uh for all things uh for family entertainment as well as the new center for the great city of Homestead. >> So what's next? Negotiations are complete. The city council voted
unanimously. Now it all begins. Construction of Homestead Regional Park will unfold in phases over the next 3 years, commencing in 2026. Like any major project, there will be growing pains, traffic, dust, and change, but it's all part of building something
transformative. The road ahead is long, but the destination will be worth it. >> I think Homestead will stand as a new reference point in sports and community development. >> And as part of the deal, Miami FC will come to Homestead.
>> Well, bringing Miami FC here is a milestone for the city. It means professional football, professional soccer in homestead with new jobs, international visibility. Remember the club will train and playing here. Most importantly will become part
of daily life. So it will inspire families, children and fans while uh generating momentum that extends far beyond the stadium. Wherever you are in the rest of the world, when you talk about the greater Miami area, you must
be forced to recognize the city of Homestead, the home of the Speedway, the home of the rodeo, and now the home of soccer and other ancillary sporting facilities. This is big. Homestead is on the way to being the go-to place. And I
keep telling folks, this is the last frontier. >> This is where the future lives. Homestead is where the future will be made in in South Florida. And certainly with the the designation of spaceport and aerospace technology on the county
lands surrounding Homestead Air Reserve Base, that opens the doors for a whole new range of highpaying, very skilled and educated jobs that we just we don't have here. >> I love that. Where the future lives.
This is where the future lives. >> Stay tuned for upcoming updates at homestead regionalpark.com. Homestead, the future lives here. Get up todate on the city of Homestead's monthly offerings. First Friday of every
month, it's karaoke night. Bring your friends to Lner Park and show us what you got. Need DMV services? Skip the long drive. We've got services available right here in your city. Also, every fourth Thursday of the month, Miami Dade County staff comes to Homestead City
Hall to assist local businesses and homeowners with certificate of use, business tax receipts, and building permit questions. And stay for Movies in the Park event where we feature familyfriendly movies under the open sky in Lner Park and the William F.
Dickinson Community Center. Want to know more? Sign up for our monthly newsletter at homesteadfl.gov/newsletter.