Um, and the ticket because this is the ordinance has to be paid. I'm sorry. Um, but it is the ordinance and um, what I will do is I will just stand with the $500 fine um, to help you out. But,
however, um, the fine cannot be wavered. All right. So by you stepping up to the plate acknowledging that it is um
it is being you know your your responsibility. I will soften my heart and uh just actually put the ordinance as the regular uh civil penalty of $500. All right. Um,
thank you again for honesty does pay off even though it doesn't seem like it. Um, but it is um going to be um what the civil penalty is the $500 instead of the five the $1,000. All right. >> Okay. So, I'm going to go ahead and make
the ruling. The ruling of CC-26-000086 TK, a $500 fine. $80 administration fee. And that's the ruling for today. Thank you. Next case, item number one under new
business, code officer Garcia. Case number CC2500644 N O F Fiesta Foods 3 LLC. Thank you. >> Just one moment. Just one moment, please. Okay, good afternoon. Sorry. Good
afternoon again. Hundress Garcia with the city of Home Compliance. Thank you for coming, sir. Uh, this notice was mailed to Fiesta Food Tree LLC. was not certified to the owner at 10530
Rosemary Drive, Bonita Spring, Florida 34135. And also a copy of that notice was mailed to the registered agent at 232 Edmeirway E in Naples, Florida 34105 back on November 8, 2025
for the violation of chapter 30 of the city code of ordinance under section-30-433A commercial parking lot in need of restriping. The compliance was not met. Therefore, the property was set for today's hearing. Currently the property
do have a permit applied for which is 2602 0233 almost ready to be issued. It was already paid for as far as I know. The initial inspection photographs were taken on November 7, 2025 and the four
inspection photograph were taken on uh February 17, 2026. The photos focus observed special masterpiece accept the photo submitted as evidence. >> You go back to the case number please.
NOV >> sorry what's the question? Special master she has it. Thank you. >> Okay. So, special master, due to the location of this business, which is a very important intersection of the city,
which is uh the US one on North Homestead Boulevard and Mari Drive. For this one to be compliant, we're requesting for the permit to be not only issued, but it has to be inspected and closed under the work done. Of course, I I do agree. It's right there in the
forefront where I wish the state or somebody would put a turning light there. And that's the light that holds me up all the time getting here. Um, go ahead and state your name and address for the record, please. >> Yes. My name is Jagalani.
>> Okay. Address. >> Address is 5 North Home Street Boulevard, Florida 33030. >> All right. What do we have to help you get? How can we help you to become compliant? >> Um the permit has been approved has been
paid. Um we didn't know about the county need to be approved also which we did obtain some ex I'm hoping that for the extension. >> Okay. >> So I'm going to give you an extension of
45 days. >> Thank you. >> All right. um please make sure that you be compliant and make sure that you are >> um honoring the request because you're in a very very how can I say this the forefront of our
community and thousands upon thousands of cars and people pass through there heading to the keys heading back north. So we want to keep our community looking >> vibrant not ran down. >> Yes. For sure. Um, today I'm going to
give you 45 days. It's going to be a $80 administration fee. I'm going to go ahead and close this case or rectify this case. CC25-0000644- NOV 45 days to come compliant. $80 administration fee. Thank you. Have a great day. >> Thank you, sir. Thank you.
Next case item number 10 under civil citations code officer Lind case number CC2600109 TKT Carlos Manuel and PA and Jenny Yeah.
Good afternoon, Special Magistry. The property was cited on April 1st of 2026. I inspected the property at 1621 Northwest 17th Street due to a complaint given by management. This was observed under the violation of
tree abuse and was cited under section 29-12 uh section H. A citation was issued to the property on the 3rd of April in 2026 with the compliance deadline of May 4th, 2026 to pay the fine in full.
The citation has remained uh not paid. Thus, it was set for today's hearing. I respectfully ask for the city to proceed uh when with the violation um as this was tree abuse to uh various different trees on the property, not just one
tree. Uh special magistry, please accept all information uh given into evidence that has been submitted. Accepted. Go. Can you go back to the Wow. Is there a current picture of today? Please scroll up.
No, this is actually the most recent picture that we have on file. >> All right. >> Can you state your name and address for the record, please? >> Carlos Manuel Pina and Jenny Pina, 1621 Northwest 17th Street, Homestead,
Florida 33030. >> How can we help him become compliant? actually it's not being compliant. He has to pay the ticket. >> Yes. And due to the nature of the violation, this can't be rectified. Um this is something that would need to be
um as an educational thing for the property owner. >> Yeah. All right. Do he understand that we he can't rectify this? This is actually just a citation. It's a ticket that has to be paid because of the violation and the depth of what he what
has occurred. Okay. Okay. I didn't know um that just trimming the tree was uh an infraction. I It's just it was my house was in danger cuz it was a very tall tree and all I did was trim it.
>> That's a little more than trimming. It has no branches, no limbs, no no no no nothing on it. It it's it's it's >> it's not even trimmed. It's hacked more than 30%.
Like >> he says, "Well, now and now it's full of branches. Now it's better." >> This is going to be a learning experience because the ordinance says 30% can only be cut. So I there's no rectifying. It has to grow back by
itself. Um, so the the ticket define is going to have to stay. It can't correct what has been done. Okay. >> So, do you have the tickets before you?
Cuz I I maybe I have them. Hold on. There was a copy of provided to administrative stuff. >> I have it. There's two tickets. Okay. All right. So, um the violation has to stand.
Hold on. Give me a minute. So, I'm going to have to stay with uh the fine that's been issued of $500. Uh so, he will have to be able to pay the fine of $500. >> Okay. All right. Thank you. Um for case
number >> item number eight. >> Item number eight. under civil citation >> turn for con for uh ticket uh for the case number CC-26-000019TK $500 $80 administration fee
case rule. Thank you. Next case, item 13 under civil citations code officer Palmer case number CC 2600120 TKT Samuel Coleman Jr. >> The citation was issued to Samuel
Coleman Jr. The property in violation is 426 Southwest 9th Street. The citation was issued on April 14th, 2026 for code section violations 23.5-5. Uh improper disposal of garbage, trash,
and waste. The property was posted and the citation was mailed on April 14th, 2026. Uh the photos fairly and accurately represent what was observed. Special Master, please accept the photo submitted as evidence. >> Accept it.
>> Uh special matter, what this is is uh the gentleman is uh building a new home and the seems like the residents of the area are um using the the new
construction area as a as a dumping site. Um, since this photo, um, the, um, owner has rectified the the front of the property to where, um,
there no there would no longer be illegal dumping. Okay. Can you go ahead and state your name and address for the record, >> Samuel Cole? Um, the address of the house is 426 Southwest Night. >> Okay.
From what I'm hearing, you've already rectified the issue. >> Yeah. Um, when when when I bought the property, whoever in the neighborhood, they using they're using that site as a dump site. You know what I'm saying? So, like none of that stuff is mine. Um, the
the young lady before him, me and her, we tried our best and I put the signs up, no dumping. She told me, you know, try to cover the cover to cover my butt. Go ahead and put it in the the no dumping signs. And you know, I did on my on my on my own. You know, some guys they'll dump and they they'll rip the
the Amazon stick off. You know what I'm saying? I try to, you know, I try to get what I can get and show her, you know what I'm saying, what's going on. Um, she said that we I guess um like I told her, I told her when when I do get power, I can put cameras and I can try to help the city catch. I don't know
what's going on, but right right now, the house is almost completely finished. I put new grass, I put trees, and they not dumping no more. >> Okay. Um my I'm glad they gave you the suggestion and the same thing I would give you is the same suggestion is for you to be
able to uh try to do what you can to cuz >> we've had this legal dumping has been very much >> a hassle and people just stop by and they dump their trash. Um, I'm going to, um, because of the
assistance that you have been consistent with and being able to be in relationship with your code enforcement, I'm going to waver the the ticket for today. And that's something I rarely do. >> Right. Right. >> Um, but if this comes back before us, it
will be um, you know, with the help of what you're doing, if you can be able to prove that, then we'll move forward. me per I think I think I don't know if it should be me or the city. I think they should like that poll. I think they should put some cameras up there. They need it could be a fake camera or what.
If they put some on that pole, I'm quite sure they want dump. >> Well, this is the thing. It's in the front of your property. That's your, you know, even though that's the city's access point, it's still the owner's responsibility to maintain the curb
appeal um of their home. So, um, if someone pulled up there with, uh, I don't know. I mean, you you're improving the quality of your property. So, I can't explain it no better than No
one's going to pull up in my driveway. >> No, no, no, no. Like, like I almost got in a couple fights cuz it's apartment building next door and it's apartment building across the street. Yeah. >> Almost got in like three, four fights about people like dumping in in that in that area. I mean, I I don't know what
the only thing I can do is put some cameras on. >> Yeah. And that's all you can do to cover yourself because it's still your responsibility to be able to prove that your property is being invaded >> with whatever is going on. All right. Right.
>> Um, >> no, it's is it was already proof, but like I say, I dealt with the young lady before him. >> Okay. >> He don't know our our history. me and her actually team up together and try to catch these people. You know what I'm saying? >> I got you. So, I'm going to waiver this
this fine for this ticket this this time. Um, but please ma please sir u make sure um that you are providing um what it is need to be necessary for uh future endeavors. Okay, >> I got you. >> Um
we we've had that problem going on. So, I'm looking for the ticket. Do you have the ticket? So for this ticket uh ticket CC-26-0000120 TKT. I'm going to vote out the ticket. allow
it to be um noted that any future tickets dealing with this property um will be considered a citation and the violation will have to be paid. All right, case dismissed. Thank you.
Now returning to the agenda order for the remaining cases. Next case, item one under civil citations, code officer Garcia. Case number CC260083 TKT Claudia Bermejo.
The citation was issued to Michelle Karabayo which is the uh tenant. The summon to appear was issued to the land owner, which is Claudia Berjo, and was mail certified to the address located at
520 Brio Key Drive, Sweet 610, Miami, Florida 33131, and was posted at 1679 Sunrise Boulevard, Homestead, Florida 3303 back on March 14, 2026 for the violation
of 23.5A improper garbage disposal known as illegal dumping. The location of the violation is the rightway by the by the waste dumpster adjacent to 492 Sunrise Boulevard. The
initial inspection photograph were taken on March 13, 2026. And the followup inspection photograph were taken on March 20, 2026. Special master, please accept the photos of Mirror 7. Can I see the ticket physically, please?
Anybody here to represent this case? All right. in case number CC26-000083 TK. I'm sorry. Yeah. That's correct. All right. $1,000 fine,
$80 administration fee. Thank you. >> I'm sorry. Special master, can you repeat the case number again? Case number CC 26-000083 TK $1,000 fine, $80 administration fee. Next case, item number two on the civil
citation. Case number CC 2600084 TKT court officer Garcia Alexandra Ernnandez. Okay. Um, the citation was issued to Alexandra Hernandez and was most certified to the
address located at 6790 Northwest 186 Street, apartment 114, Hay Alia, Florida 33015 back on March 14, 2026 for the violation of chapter 23.5
a improper garbage disposal also legal dumping. The location of the violation is a city-owned vacant lot under folio 10-792A- 0001- 0030.
The initial um photograph were taken on March 14, 2026 and the follow were taken on March 17, 2026. The initial and reinspection photograph represent was observed. Special
masterpiece was observed. Evidence accepted. Can I see the ticket, please? Yes. Uh, special master again for the record, this is a city owned vacant lot. The city have to take significant resources
and remove all the garbage that you see. or it was done at the end of the day and ticket number case number CC-26-000084 TK $1,000 $80 admin administration fee. >> Thank you.
>> Next case, item number four, under civil citations, code officer Garcia. Case number CC2600089 TKT Javier Despouse. >> Okay. So the citation and summons to
appear was issued to Javier. Hopefully I'm pronouncing this correctly. the spa the spoo the spas and was not certified to the address located at 150 southwest 98 Avenue Miami Florida 33176 and was
posted at 30 northeast third drive here in Homestead back on March 28 2026 for the violation of code section 23.5-6C uh improper garbage garbage disposal
early jar waste placement The location of the violation is the rightway or the swell behind 30 nor easter drive. The initial photograph were taken on March 17, 2026 and the followup photograph
were taken on March 26, 2026. This there were two previous courtesy cases on the record which was CA260026 ABT open on January 9, 2026 and closed
on February 2nd, 2026 and another courtesy case which is CC2500324 NOB open on October 17, 2025 and closed on October 24, 2025. The initial and inspection photograph
represent was observed. Special masterpieces of the photo submitted as evidence. Accepted. I'm ready to rule on the case. Case number CC26-000089,000 $80 administration fee. Next case, item number seven, under
civil citations, code officer Garcia. Case number CC 260008 TKT FVP reality management services court. The
citation and summons to appear was issued to FBP Realy Management Services Corp. for the mailing address 848 Bickl Drive, sweet 3904 in Miami, Florida 33131 and was posted at 111 Southwest
2nd Street in Home of Florida for 330 back on April 2nd, 2026. This is for the violation of 23.5-4 condition and inspection of container allowing a commercial container to overflow with waste. The location of
course is 1101 Southwest Street. The initial photograph were taken on April 1st, 2026 and the inspection photograph were taken on April 10, 2026. The initial and reinspection photograph represent was observed. Special master,
please accept the photo. >> Accept it. ready to make a ruling on the case and case number CC26 and case number CC26-000092 >> CC C2600108 TKT. >> All right. Gotcha. I'm I'm ahead of
myself or behind myself. And the case number CC-26-0000108 $1,000 $80 administration fee. Thank you. Case case. Uh next case. >> Next case. Item number 10 under civil citation
code officer bill case number CC26 00115 TKT Golene Zio Bo Elroy Arnison Brien E.
>> Good afternoon. As for case number CC-26-00115-TKT at the location of 140 Northwest 10th Street on April 8th, 2026, I observed a whole pile of appliances, garbage, and other miscellaneous trash. I issued a citation for 23
uh.5-6 C improper waste disposal, early garbage placement. Uh on April 8th, 2026 to Carolyn Zeleno, Bo Elroy Arnison, and Brian Arnison. The bulk pile was out too early and the next scheduled pic pickup
was on April 13, 2026. Citation was both posted at the property and sent via certified mail. As of today, there is no bulk trash, but the citation has not been paid. This is a repeat offense from February 5th, 2026, case number
CC-26-000045-TKT for the same violation. Please accept all photos as evidence. >> Accepted. This is a repeat. Anyone here to represent? This is a repig of a violation. Um, it's going to run a daily fine.
So, the citation is for $1,000. >> Special magistrate. Um, the previous case that this was cited under was my case. That fine was initially 500 and ran up to a thousand. This ticket was issued for a thousand. Uh the city's
like trying to pursue 5,000 for this case. I do have a separate case that's for this hearing that we can uh apply the running fine to today as this is a citation. I believe you only can. >> You got a second ticket? >> Well, a second violation for the property itself, not for uh the pile.
The pile was removed. >> Can I hear both of them? >> Yes, that's fine. Let me pull up my case. Give me one moment. Okay. So, the property was cited back in January of 2027. This is for case
CC-26-00259-OV. >> Hold on. Where are we at on that on that? What What bullet point is that? >> It's a case number, Jeffrey. >> It's ending in 00259. It's part of the new business cases. Uh,
bulletin 8. Case number item number eight under new business. Code officer Lynn. Case number CC2600259. NOB will be heard right after >> injunction. Uh, run it to together,
please. Right after case number CC2600115 TKT Carolyn Zelio Beroy Arnison Brian E with code office review. Um as stated um special magistry the
property was cited back in January 27 of 2026. I inspected the property at 140 Northwest 10th Street due a complaint uh that we received by management in regards to the debris. Um debris was found on the property originally. Um the property was cited for that and property
maintenance as the paint was starting to uh scale on the property including the property having holes spreaded across um the property in various different areas. Um the paint and also the holes have not been patched properly yet. Um they've placed wooden boards across the property
to basically state that they patched it over, but this was never done. Uh the property was cited because the trash was thrown from the property into the front of the property which we did site them for and they did receive a violation for that. Um then the second goound was with
case um sorry I do not have a case for you CC-26-00115 which officer be cited him a second time because they took the trash from the property again and threw it in front of the property for a second time.
Um the property was given notices on March 5th and also in my apologies on March 30th with the violation notice. I reinspected the property on April 4th
and the property remained in violation. I respectfully ask for all of the evidence to be submitted into record. Special magistry, please accept all evidence. >> Accept it. I'm going to go and go ahead and and rule on the ticket part and then
I'm going to come back and um give the ruling on the second component. Um part one violation of the ticket is um again I'm going to make it public known no one's here to represent this
ticket. All right. And far as the ticket part, it's going to run a daily fine as well as the maximum fine. The maximum fine is $5,000. The daily fine is going to be $150.
>> Starting today. >> Oh, no, no, no, no. I'm going I'm going to retract that because I have to go to the second part. Um, the maximum fine is $5,000 and that's for ticket number CC-26-0000115
TK. $5,000 $80 administration fee for new business. as far as new business to ticket the uh citation uh case number CC26-0000259.
Um I'm giving them 10 days to come compliant, $80 administration fee, >> special majesty, will there be a running fine on that? I can't do a running fine right now because this is new. They just you just presented this second case is new. So I
have to give them time to come compliant before I can be able to do anything else. >> Understood. >> All right. Thank you. Those cases are done. Thank you. >> Next case, item 11 under civil citation
court officer Lynn. Case number CC 2600 117 TKT Arcenio A Rell Antonia D Arcenio Ravello TRS Abascal Abascal Revocable
Trust Antonia Abascal TRS >> Special Majesty, this case is in compliance. They paid the ticket. >> Thank you. Next case, item number one under previously hurt code officer Flores.
Case number C2506432 771 Northwest 15th Street LLC. Special master, this is in compliance. >> Thank you. Next case item number three under new business court officer Valencia case number CC
2500 665 N O Leathy Companies LLC. Special master would like to table this case. >> Table. Next case item number nine under new business
code officer Chaveelli case number CC2600385 NOB 250 Northwest 9th Terrace LLC. The property was cited on February 11th, 2026 for the following code violations
6-36 non-permitted work for the changel link fence and partial removal of wall structure. Compliance was not met. Summon to appear was mailed and posted on March 16, 2026. As of today, the property remains in violation. Photographs were taken and submitted as
evidence. Evidence accepted. >> Special master. Um, they have a permit 2603 0131. This is for the changel link fence. It's been in an applied status as of March 7,
2026. And they're missing the partial removal of the wall structure. They don't have a permit on file for that. >> All right. I'm going to give them >> um special master. >> Special master. Anybody here represent
I'm sorry represent >> No one's here to represent the property owner but we have a gentleman citizen that would like to speak. >> Okay. Go ahead. >> Yes. Charles Muns. I'm not I'm not in this case but I own the property or at least the property adjacent to this from
CSX Railroad and this guy is on our property in violation and it for months now it's been held up our own fencing project which we have permits and Most of it's complete, but this guy's just we can't get him to move. And I
don't know what to do. Whatever he's telling you is is BS. I have a lease with the CSX Railroad. The property survey depicts the property the property lines that he's encroaching on. That's this piece.
It's right here. That's the piece right there. Anyway, I'm just trying to get some action because this guy's been holding me up for over three months. He doesn't have a permit. He might have applied for a permit, but there's no way they give him a permit. I took took me
three years to get my permit. >> All right. Um, I'm going to uh ask that um I'm going to go ahead and continue. Um, I'm going to refer you over to the department and then they can be able to give you more advice on how to be able
to pursue in moving forward with your complaint. >> Probably a bulldozer. >> I can hear you. >> Probably a bulldozer. >> I can't give you no legal advice. All I can do is just try to stay compliant what our ordinance are. Thank you. Thank you. >> All right. Thank you. I'm going to give
um a fiveday compliance $80 administration fee. >> Next, >> I got to finish. I'm sorry. Finish. In case number CC26-00385 NOV, 5 days to come compliant, $80
administration fee. Case move on. Next case, item number 12. on their new business. Code officer Lynn, case number CC2600417, NOE N O
Mirrol Mir Juba Filipovic. property was cited back in February 12th of 2026. I inspected the property at 61 Northwest 13th Street due to a routine inspection and observed a roof repair that was done without a permit. Uh the property was cited under code section
636 for non-permits pulled for the roof repairs. uh notice of violation was issued to the property owner in February 13th of 2026 with a compliance deadline of April 1st, 2026. I reinspected the property on
the 2nd of April 2026 and the violation remained as no permits were pulled for the roof repairs. Um as of today, there's still no roof um permits on file for the repairs that were done at the property address. Um, special majesty,
please accept all evidence submitted into evidence. >> Accepted. We'll go ahead and make the ruling. Anybody here to represent? No rep. Nobody here to represent. CC2-26-00417 NOV 15 days to come compliant. $80
administration fee. Thank you. Next case. >> 15 days. >> 15 days. Next case, item 13 under new business, court officer Garcia. Case number CC 26
00530 N O Alfredo Serrano Jr. Naelli Gomez Serrano. >> Okay. Uh, special master. Um, the courtesy notice was posted on the property of Alfredo Serrano Nali Gomez
back on February 24, 2026. A follow-up inspection was made on March 24, 2026 and was determined that the property is still in violation. Therefore, a notice of violation was issued via certified mail and was also posted on the property that same day for
the violation of chapter 30 of the city code of ordinance under section 30-433G storing a boat on the front yard of the property. Uh compliance was not met. Therefore, the property was set for tonight's hearing. The initial inspection photograph were taken back on
February 24, 2026. And the followup inspection photograph were taken on March 24, 2026, April 7, 2026 and May 13, 2026. The photos fairly and accurately represent was observed. Special master pieces of the photos 7
>> accepted. Anybody here to represent? Case number CC-26-00530 NOV. It's stormy season. It's rainy season. This need to be rectified as soon as possible. Five days. >> $80 administration fee. >> Yeah. And if I may, your honor, um,
special master, um, I was kind of surprised she was not here because when it was posted the the notice, she came out, explained the issue. She was very defensive. She felt targeted, explained to her that she was not the only property being sited and she said she was going to be here today, but it's not here today.
>> Five days to be compliant, $80 administration fee. Thank you. >> Next case, item 14 under new business code officer Valencia. Case number CC 2600 666
NOV SBN Corp. >> That's a heck of a number. >> That's why it's compliant. >> Oh. Thank you for the giggle. >> Next case, item 16 under new business
code officer mentor case number CC26 00737 Nov W. Brenda F and Daniel D. Anderson. This property was cited on March 1026
for code section violation 15-133 property maintenance uh pressure washing or painting the property. A notice of violation was certified mailed and posted on 31126. Uh summon steer was also certified
mailed and posted on 41426. Compliance was not met. Therefore, the property was set forth tonight's hearing. Currently, the property is in violation. I took the photographs on March 1026 and 41426.
The photos fairly accurately represent what was observed. Special master, please accept the photo as >> accepted. Um, special master, I spoke with the with the tenant recently. Uh, they tried to pressure wash, but it didn't correct the violation.
Um, so she stated that she reached out to the owners and the owners will be hiring somebody to uh paint the property now. >> Okay. >> All right. And case number CC261.
Oh >> CC >> CC >> 26 >> 2600737 NOV 30 days to come compliant. $80 administration fee. Next case, item 18,
code officer Chapelle and their new business. Case number C25070321, Turner Turner Thomas, Inc. >> This case is complied. meeting adjourned at 3:43 p.m.
Thank you. you know, so there's no question on the colors >> that's built into that. Well, I think that's the reproduction. That's not necessarily what's the real Yeah. Okay. So, let's have a roll call on that.
Anything we get over here? Okay. >> Madam Clerk, Councilman Ross. Councilwoman Ksky, >> yes. >> Councilman Cannibal, yes. >> Councilman Fletcher, >> yes. >> Councilwoman Abilong, >> yes. >> Vice Mayor Bailey, Mayor Losner, >> yes. >> The motion carries.
>> Let me let me touch real quickly on tap 22. There was a statute that was moving forward in the legislature that would have preempted all of our ordinances and would have mandated that by December 1st, we enact legislation to
affirmatively permit accessory dwelling units in any >> single family residential neighborhood. So just in the last couple of days, the advice we have I have from from our folks in Tallahassee that that may be
stalled. I will tell you I am not a proponent of ADUs. I was just trying to get ahead of of state statute. So a month delay on 22 will give us a better feel. Did did that revive itself in the
as the legislature went forward? So, you know, there's no, in my view, there was no need to go forward with this tonight because it's not really looming at this point. It may be next month. We'll see. >> Yeah. Okay.
>> Okay. So, that moves to I need to announce a vacancy on the affordable housing committee for the banking for affordable housing. Does this replace is this Mr. Pruna? >> Yes, Mr. Mayor. >> Okay. All right. So just put on your
radar that you know and there are very specific categories and and eligibility and and it's one that is a mandated position. So we need to find someone in currently involved in banking that deals with affordable housing. Not exclusively, but that's in the the
wheelhouse now. And I'll ask you, Deputy Manager Brown, is banking used in the traditional term or would it be other, you know, not mainline banking but financial services?
>> So, the the ordinance stipulates banking. Um, now we can maybe speak with the city attorney to determine if banking and financial services um, if there's an alignment. So, I can follow up with the city attorney's
office and we can make a determination and report back to council. >> Okay. Well, just, you know, we'll go ahead and advertise it as as banking and I want to put that in on all of your radars >> for, you know, potential qualified folks with that caveat. >> Okay. that then it may may or may not be
very tightly defined. >> Okay. >> Yes. >> Thank you, mayor. If if if I am so appointed as the chamber liaison, this would be great to add to the list of things that I should um um share at the upcoming chamber meetings. >> Okay. >> It would be nice if I could have help
creating the list of things. >> So, we will uh we will provide a succinct list of all the categories that were outlined in the ordinance and then we will work with the clerk to put a flyer out. the clerk of the communications division to put a flyer
out and we'll circulate it with um the South Day chamber >> and this is the only vacancy at this time and this is an absolute mandated >> category. That is correct. >> And mayor, is there another vacancy on the um the pension board that needs to
be filled? I understand that that the I I've heard out in the public that some some resumes or applications have been submitted to the clerk in the last few days at least one on the police pension board >> and it was forwarded to to your staff mayor. >> Okay. I haven't seen that yet. I I got a
phone call telling me to you know heads up and that was I think last night. >> So mayor and council uh this has to do with monies that come from the states. So I don't know whether the city
attorney can independently opine on changing stipulation of eligibility for membership. >> I'm going to have to go. >> So my recommendation will be very simple to be very cautious and on the safe side >> mandate us to come back on the car
meeting as with a special call and change that language and bring it for second reading on March 18. Within 30 days we're in fully compliant. >> Okay. Right. That's fine. Okay. >> After research and verifying with the state and all that,
>> and and I apologize. I jumped ahead in the agenda. Councilman Fletcher, it's your time to shine. >> Usually these are down in the bottom. >> Yeah. >> No worries. Uh thank you for the time. Uh >> page 15. >> I did want to uh during my business, I
did want to bring up uh as we all know, FIFA World Cup is coming this year. uh they just had some some big doings this week uh up in the county, but I wanted the staff to start looking at um watch parties here in the city of Homestead uh
with some of our residents uh and maybe uh coordinating with the the new folks at uh Sports Hub uh some of the things we can look at during the FIFA World Cup that's coming up in June. So, if we could start looking at that, I'd be happy to. So, Councilman, we through the
manager, uh, we have actually started a planning to some respect for for um this event or weeks long event. Uh, for the benefit of council, the World Cup kicks
off in June and then it runs all the way through July, August, I believe. Um and uh we we have a two-prong approach. Um we are intending uh and we'll we'll we'll memorialize this with a memo um once we
have all the plans and the budgets and for council's consideration. But the the loosely the plan is that we will we will partner with uh local businesses for early in June um to activate a watch
parties. Um, one that comes to mind, I think we have a a Mexico versus, let's say, Switzerland game. We will find a um a local restaurant. We will represent Mexico. They will host
the watch party. As we get closer to um the team calls it the quarterfinals, right? Uh we are looking we're exploring the ability to establish a fan zone where it's now the city curating an
event or the watch party events. We'll have to determine the location. Um and then on the World Cup night we will have the culmination probably being um a larger event with a huge watch party whether or not it will trigger food
trucks and more or less um some sort of an activation. But yes, that is something that the manager has given direction that we explore and we have begun the um the planning to that end. So we will formally share with council um the plan, the outline any potential
budget impact uh for for council to ultimately make a decision on whether or not we proceed. >> No, that's awesome. And again, that's just incumbent on us to go out and look for some additional sponsors outside to help offset those costs and gain more notoriety in the community is all that's
all I was bringing it up for. Um, today I I did a little drive around in the southwest section of town. I haven't been there in a couple of months. And uh I got to tell you, the Homestead Gardens project blows my mind. from where we were to
where we're at today. Although it's still under construction, it's just absolutely amazing. I'm happy we were able to help the community in that area. Even in the older apartments, you know, they have brand new air conditioners now that they didn't have any before. So, uh it's just
uh great to see that that's finally coming to fruition. Um, also the I I hadn't seen the greeting card on the wall and so I looked at that today and it's absolutely awesome. I wish it was able to move closer to
Chrome Avenue because it is a little you got to turn your tweak your neck a little bit to see it, but it it looks it's awesome. Um, I did have the opportunity this last weekend to uh go to Daytona for the 500 race and uh look at their public safety
and their traffic management systems and their security. And let me tell you, if you've never been before, and I it's been 20 plus years since I've been to Daytona, but you know, 150,000 people, the event was completely sold out.
and right into it. They had to do rapid schedule changes at the beginning because there was a weather front coming through. So, they moved that the race up an hour, you know, to prevent having like a mass evacuation type event that I've seen at other events. But I can
tell you they could still learn a few things from an old homestead cop about how to direct traffic. Uh they they need some help. But uh all in all uh it was a great learning opportunity for me and we're going to share uh you know my insights with the
chief and the manager. U spent some time with Germo uh walking around and and envisioning what our fan zone can look like coming up for the 2026 championship. And I can tell you people were there buying tickets for our race.
Uh we expect a sellout. Um, so if you haven't got your tickets yet, you might want to reach out and grab those because they're they're going quickly. Next, uh, I just want to re-emphasize and have everybody take a look at the Discover Homestead website. Uh, we do
have the community calendar on there now. It's right on the city of Homestead website. You can go to the link uh, as we start building it. There's going to be a lot of great information there uh, about the community. And uh with that, I will leave for the evening. Thank you. Thank
you. >> Uh we've still got CRA, >> Councilwoman Ksky. >> Thank you, Mr. Mayor. Um for those of you, right on Q. Right on Q. Thank you. For
those of you who could not attend the silent disco that the GFWC Women's Club of Homestead was hosting, you're in luck because it's been postponed. So, uh, February 27th, we will be hosting a silent disco. Mr. Mayor, you said you
were a little confused on exactly how you have a silent disco. It's two genres of music being played simultaneously. Um, you listen in on your headphones so that you can dance along with whatever genre you like. This is just um a
payback to the community to give you something an alternative to do on a Friday night. So uh that's February 27th. You can find us on social media or Eventbrite for tickets. Um also March 8th is International Women's Day. So in
honor of that activity, the GFWC women's club also hosts a annual woman of the year where we honor women in the community for their outstanding service to the community and what they um contribute their time and service. So um
we ask that you would participate in that as well. And also I want to uh acknowledge the fact that I've taken notice to the cleanliness and tidiness and the removal and the overall approval of or um appeal
of the city. I don't I don't know what we've been doing, but um it's visually noticeable. Um the go the shopping carts, the trash, um the it's a it's gone. You know, it's it was it was been my complaint to the mayor prior to being
on council that the overall appeal of the city um needed some attention and tending to. So, kudos to those who are taking initiative and action in doing so. It is um it has been noticed not just by myself but others as well. So, thank you.
Moving on to Councilman Roth. >> Thank you, Mayor. Just a correction to the date for the women of the year. You mentioned the 8th which is >> women's day but the actual event is on March 14th. >> March 14th. Thank you for clarification.
>> And I think we're looking for more organizations to honor their woman of the year as well. So >> we did not want to compete with Rotary. >> Right. >> So and so we can be there to support you guys. I will leave that either for Julio or for the mayor to talk about because
that's coming up too. >> Um, besides that, I got nothing. >> Thank you, Councilman. Councilman Cannibal. >> Now, let's go to the CRA. >> Uh, Vice Mayor, >> thank you, Mayor. I'll make it really
quick. Love the FIFA ideas. Um, a couple years back we helped one of our local teams by the city um advertising a watch party and Keg South donated money towards them. So, it might, you know, we've got some time.
Uh, we might want to sponsor a few of our local youth teams and allow some of our businesses who will obviously benefit from having so many people um, donate a certain percentage of what they make.
Um, a couple quick things code related. Uh, there have been a lot of chickens around lately in the southwest especially >> everywhere. >> Um, it happens. I would I don't know. It seems to be something that's like every
five years there's like an influx. I don't personally mind them, but I've I've received a couple calls. I was like, I'm not sure what we do about that. >> Surprise eggs. So, so if a a chicken is tied to a particular property, we do site the
property owner for chickens, coups, and those. The free roers are the ones that are usually the the nuisance pests. Um, we we can't really they don't come with a collar, so they're very hard to tie tie down, but we do our best to try to
look at evidence for people that have food out or things like that. So, yes, we will. I'll send you a couple addresses then because I think there might be some issues with leaving food out. >> Are we allowed to pick up free range chicken? >> Yes.
>> I I there is no prohibition. >> So >> why are they taking >> I mean you not us >> you can come over come over tomorrow night. >> Yes we do. >> How are they manager? >> So we do have a program called chicken
busters >> in Miami. So I'm going to leers with staff. >> Yes. >> The aspect of final destination of the chickens I'm not going to disclose on the record. >> However, there is an effective value active program in place today.
>> I'm aware of the chicken busters program and there's a pro and a con in each community. >> Enough said. Enough said. You don't want to disclose where they're ending. >> Chicken. >> Yeah. I think between the chicken problem and boats in the front yard, there's a really inappropriate quip
about hyalia in there somewhere. >> If I may, real quickly, also, not only chickens, but peacocks are proliferating everywhere. >> So, poul are a little bit different classification. Um, but yes, same thing.
If we can tie them to an address, it's much easier. But yes, they are um unlike the chicken, they're very loud. >> That's what I've been hearing. To cars even during their season, they're very uh nuisancey.
>> The peacocks are finding their way over to downtown. I saw one the other day. >> Um you mentioned being over in the southwest. Did you did you also notice the new mural on Maui? Um not the not the postcard, the other one. So, in the
next two weeks, I would like to invite you all and have the city come out to help with an unveiling of Homestead Walls first Maui mural. I think that it looks amazing. It has two very inspiring
quotes. Be the eye in kind and I'm totally drawing. Be the be the good you want to see in the world. Something to that effect. It's been a long night. uh one of the MLK B yeah one of the MLK quotes. So please look out for that. I
would love for us to be able to take a picture there and invite the rest of the community and guests over obviously as well to come and visit it. As I mentioned earlier in the presentations artist in the spotlight February 26 it is a really cool exhibit. Um, Friday
night it'll lead thursday Thursday night it'll lead into one of the black history um events with a spoken word. So look out for that on the city's website. And finally the 28th that Saturday is
Homestead Art in the Park. Everyone you're welcome. We have moved it from the scorching times in May to February. So, it'll be a much nicer afternoon to enjoy some beautiful local artists. So, that is February 26th for Artists in the
Spotlight and Saturday the 28th for Homestead's Art Walk, Art in the Park. That's all I have. Thank you. >> Okay. And even though the clerk's office cut me off of the uh
>> Oh, they cut you off, too. >> Not on my page. Okay. Councilwoman, >> thank you, Mayor. I'll try to make it quick. Happy Valentine's to everybody. I hope each and every one of you got a cookie that I sponsored uh from my student entrepreneur who lives in my
district, Caleb with uh the cookie guy. Uh he is one hopefully one of many little mini grants uh intended to foster a love of entrepreneurship and um um start startup companies. So that is my gift to all of you. Thank you for all of
your hard work. Thank you to staff for the abatement action plan. Very very much needed and the action going into graffiti, shopping carts, litter, uh what am I missing? Overgrowth, etc., etc., etc. That is why we're seeing
results. And so I do appreciate my messages and my emails and my my uh calls being uh responded to in measurable action plans. Thank you very much. And uh Councilwoman Flesher, thank you so much for bringing the uh topic of where people are doing business. There
is a an entity called We Work that I think would do well in a community like ours offering affordable workspaces for small businesses. And um I don't know how they operate or what the mechanisms are for their uh their rental schedules,
but if we can look into something like that or anything similar to provide more office space options, rent is ridiculous. And that's why people are operating out of their homes and um you know for things like AC and mechanics and and electrical work, they're doing the work on sites elsewhere. So if they
can forego hefty rental, they will. Um, and then the watch parties. There were calls for me to put on a watch party for the M game, and I was like, I cannot handle that right now. I will not do it, but I love that you're bringing that to the table. I will absolutely uh support that item and look forward to attending.
Thank you. >> So, councilwoman, on the we we walk program, actually, one of the downtown Homestead uh location is already about to explore and uh initiate a weiw walk facility. >> Excellent. Thank you. Happy to hear it.
is working with the CRA. >> That it. >> Yes, thank you. >> Okay. Did I miss anybody? Okay, >> you you kind of skipped me. I was kind of curious. >> What's that? >> Skip them through. >> Well, but I haven't gotten to me yet. So, I'm ready to
>> get to you. >> Big changes in Florida City. And congratulations to Mayor Elect Charlotte Thompson. I understand that uh the swearing in will be at 1:00 Friday afternoon in their uh commission chambers. But what makes it particularly
notable to me personally, I learned today was reminded today that Mayor elect Thompson and I both graduated from South Date High School the same year. So, I think, you know,
and 47 years ago, and yes, we are that old. Um, I think it's really it's it's fascinating to me in a weird kind of way that the mayor of Homestead and Florida City are both that old and are both hometown folks that graduated from the
only high school that served Homestead in Florida City in those days that long ago. But uh big big changes uh coming to our sister city to the south. And speaking of longevity and long time, I'd be remiss if I didn't acknowledge that
uh my wife as of Monday, my wife kept me around for 35 years because my grandfather would have said 35 really long years to her. Right. Yeah. He would have said a lot of things, right, Crystal? But, uh, I appreciate that and,
uh, thank everyone for the well wishes who who, uh, were aware of that. It's, uh, been quite an adventure. Just ask her what she's thought of it. Finally, and and Councilwoman, you you touched on on the, uh, the lobby today.
I know we had an item tonight that was withdrawn that was going to address activation of of the lobby for vendors, exhibitors, and and other uses that that did not go forward. And it it kind of concerned me tonight, and I didn't know
the backdrop at the time of of what was going on. I mean typically the fact that some we had something before us and you know interpretation of laws typically mean that if there's nothing saying you can do it then you can't do it and
typically you know the city manager is a manager of a lot of things including this building. So when we have receptions and events here in the council chambers, in the lobby or or any of us do things, it typically is
cleared, you know, through management as an individual event or or a city event. And I I just I don't want to take away I I want to accommodate the community, but I don't want to take away from the dignity and decorum of our lobby. And I
think we really need to go forward and have some guidelines or some direction for for the manager so it doesn't become a free-for-all in terms of folks coming in and doing a popup giveaway or you know selling items what whatever it may
be you know something for you know another meeting maybe you know revisit your item that that was pulled for tonight. Um but I hope that you know until then there'll be coordination through the manager's office. so that uh you know we remain safe and secure and
and and dignified in our uh in our lobby. >> Mayor F. >> Yes. >> Points well taken. Are you under the opinion that the organization of this event that I held in the lobby was not done through the manager's office? >> Um I kind of have that perception that
it came as a big surprise. I mean there's no nothing enabling to do that. Is is my perception correct, Mr. Manager? So, Mr. Mayor and Council, um, a few weeks ago, Councilwoman Aila reached out to me with initiating a number of
programs citywide, one of which is lo city hall lobby activation and uh, we proposed that we could start that and come to council with a razor. Uh, that razor was withdrawn uh, because I believe the councilman
wants to take a second look at it. is on conversation with the city attorney and uh the programming is not just for city hall activation. It's also inclusive of senior citizen prom as well as uh monthly branch that has to happen after
council meeting. My understanding is that we are going to come back at some point with a revision and update to all this programming. >> Right. So that's in regards to the reszo itself but the actual coordination the event was in fact brief discussed and I
provided a donation check was uh rendered printed and rendered and this was no surprise to any of our staff and I took uh recommendations and I my I was under the impression that we had previously uh as a council uh prior
discussed lobby activations. I did request for research to be done so we can make sure that we look to any policy or formal resolutions that have been passed. Apparently, it was never done, but my recollection serves that we had discussed lobby activations as long as we are letting the um the the council
members know through the city manager's office and it's organized and and properly u um um you know, let letting you guys all know. Now, for the purposes of discussing the future reszo, the
intention is to showcase uh small businesses or uh new businesses and for each district representative to be able to do the same. Not too long ago, I sponsored Chick-fil-A dinner for the the attendees of the meeting and it was to
showcase that Chick-fil-A was coming to District Five and we had a full chamber. There was also a ton of kids soccer uh attendees. So, I think it's very wellreceived. It promotes the um the businesses of our community and it is
checking a lot of the boxes on our strategic plan for engagement. And I encourage the rest of my colleagues to identify small businesses, student entrepreneurs, um different months and categories that we can highlight for a presentation within the lobby. Let's bring the
Redlands in and showcase orchids and plants and things of that nature. I I I look forward to future discussion when the reszo is presented. Oh >> yeah. and and and I want to have those discussions and set some guidelines and and procedures and avoid becoming a flea
market. >> Yes, the the the student uh parents heard you mentioned that to them and um by far this is not meant to be a flea market and in fact it is to highlight and encourage the youth in our community to not just work at McDonald's, right?
Let's be entrepreneurs. let's do well and and have a goal and show and show that the community and the city of Homestead supports those kinds of uh >> that's not what this is about. This is just going and circumventing rules that we don't have >> not at all >> the night the night this was withdrawn.
We have never done anything >> and for the record mayor I did not I did not review dictate or um request for the reszo to be presented on this agenda. So, if it was you who requested the resolution with my name on it, I would
request respectfully that anything with my name on it be vetted through me first before it's placed on a public agenda. >> Are you accusing me of putting something on the agenda with your name on it? >> I don't know who did. >> So, so Mr. >> You don't know who I think there are emails that hang it on around your neck. May >> you've got an obligation to sit up here
and tell the truth. I >> I did not request on this agenda. >> May I counel? >> It will come back and I do thank the staff for the opportunity to discuss and to make it. May I May I? >> Yes. >> Yes. So, attorneys just drew this out of thin air. >> Neither the mayor nor Councilman Aila is
instrumental in presenting this to council. This was from the manager's office. I just want to make that clear on the record. Councilman Aila made a request in writing. Gave me a lot of initiatives to roll out. She and I had a conversation. I asked specific question. Do you want to roll this out? In
writing, you said yes, beginning this month. That was in January. When we met internally, we realized that it has fiscal impact. So any item that has fiscal impact has to come before this council. That's why he came here. It did not come from councilman AA. Neither did it come from the mayor.
>> I just want to make that clarification. >> Thank you. >> Mr. Manager, do you have anything for the council meeting tonight before we quickly wrap up? Yes, I will make it brief. I'll make it brief. The rest of it I will send out through the normal channel of memos to council. Simple
updates that we start restarting the city council workshops on the 25th of this month. We'll be starting off the revenue generation and cost savings workshop. It's going to be here at city hall. Uh also just a reminder that the water management district has been
having some of uh uh dry season shortfall in water supply in the canals. So there is a warning from the water management district. Uh some of you may have heard that there has been some cases of water service disruption in northeast side of the city. Uh
unfortunately as regrettable as that is that is under the purview of Miami date water and sewer service area. The city administration is working with the county to find out what the issues are and the challenges. Unfortunately, uh we may have to make some very strong
recommendation such as to the Baptist hospital to look into having a dual service connectivity to connect to both the city of Homestead water supply as well as to the county to avoid what they just experienced. uh the bill collection. We just stated
that the insert has gone out and also as part of the black history month uh there is going to be a living song book event on the 27th of this month in partnership with the seminal theater. So that's on behalf
and by the way Mr. V former Vice Mayor Guzman is still in the chambers. Just as a reminder, the seafood festival is on March 7th and 8th. Thank you. Okay, Mr. Attorney, >> very quickly, can I request one executive session in the manner of Lasal Educational Center versus City of
Homestead? It's case number 125 CV 24232 in the Southern District. Of course, make it happen. We all love to sit behind closed doors with our attorneys. All right, there's nothing further. I'll entertain a motion to adjourn. >> Mayor, if I may, sorry, one more thing,
just to piggyback on the manager's comments about the east side water interruption. It would be remiss of me to not recognize the fast and prudent action that the staff took, the city manager answering emails and getting uh um water returned to the the residents
of the east side and the hospital as mentioned. So, thank you very much for that. First time I have experienced something like that in my tenure living in Homestead and hope it's the last. Thank you for your involvement >> and we're all just thankful it was not an equipment or system failure on our part as much as the folks online would
love to blame it on overdevelopment and and incompetency throughout the city. Somebody else turned the wrong valve. All right. So, do we have a motion to adjurnn? So, moved, seconded. All in favor? I. And as soon as the clerk
signals she is ready, we will uh move into the uh CRA meeting CRA meeting. And by gosh, we're going to meet that 9:30 deadline. >> Ready? Okay. So, I'd like to call Good evening. Want to call order the city of Homestead Community Redevelopment Agency
board meeting. Today is February 18th, 2026 and it is now 9:22 p.m. Can we have a roll call, please? Madame Clerk, >> board member Ksky >> here. >> Board member Abilo >> here. >> Board member Ross >> here. >> Board member Fletcher
>> here. >> Board member Cannibal. >> Vice Chairwoman Bailey >> here. >> Chairman Lawson >> here. >> Mr. Manager, do we have any deletions or deferrals other than tab two? >> Yes. Chairman, >> draw tab two. Yes. Uh tab two is the
only item we'd prefer to uh pull. >> All right. So, do we need a motion and an action? Okay. So, we need a motion to withdraw tab two from the agenda. >> It's been moved and seconded. Further comments? All in fa uh yeah, we can uh we need a roll call on the
withdrawal of tab 2. >> Board member Roth. >> Yes. >> Board member Ailo. >> Yes. >> Board member Cannibal. >> Yes. >> Board member Fletcher. W member Ksky, Vice Chairwoman Bailey. >> Yes. >> Chairman Lawson. >> Yes. >> All right. And we need a motion for the
approval of the minutes of the prior meeting. >> Been moved and seconded. Any questions or comments? All in favor? >> Any opposed? All right. Moving along to tab three. >> Tab three is a resolution of the board of the community redevelopment agency of
the city of Homestead, Florida approving the allocation of commercial enhancement grant program funds. is approving grant agreement, providing for implementation, providing for an effective date. >> Thank you, Mr. Director. >> Do want to acknowledge that this is a grant application under the commercial enhancement program that allows a
maximum allowable grant award of $25,000. This is for the our homes project at Ford North Chrome Avenue, which I think we've all seen undergoing extensive renovation. Uh the grant application itself is for the uh funding to be applied towards the installation of
impact windows and doors as well as uh exterior stuckle repair. You've seen there's been a substantial amount of work and and painting of the property as well. This requires a minimum 10% match from the uh applicant. And as you've all seen by the volume of work they're doing, uh they're well exceeding that
based on our uh preliminary numbers received from them. It'll be closer to the $900,000 in the total investment. I want to acknowledge that the applicants are here and uh board member Ailia you had brought up the wei work. So uh we are we are delivering really quick here
they are uh but I do want to give them an opportunity. >> Welcome Mr. Roma good to see you again. >> Perfect. Uh if there's any questions certainly here >> you know if you'd like for the record the property owner is here. >> Yeah move by council. Yes real quick.
Welcome. I'm sorry you've had to sit through all of this. Um, obviously we >> He came in late. He didn't sell enough. >> It was long enough. I'm sure. Um, we're really happy to do these grants, especially helping our downtown area. My
only ask, I know that in the end you're going to have to do what is going to work for you, is to consider those restaurant hours. You know, I see a Papa John's here and a T-Mobile. Obviously, not exactly what we would like on this beautiful corner lot that you have. Um, so just please try to keep
that in mind. It's a historic downtown area. It's one of the few historic buildings that are left. Um, so anything that you can do to make it a little more original, a little more homestead would be really greatly appreciated. >> Oh, absolutely. Um, we are going to do it uh similar to what you're seeing right now. It's going to look um older.
It's going to look from the time. So it's not going to look modern. We putting stones on the corner, the ivy trees. So it's going to have a corable vibe. >> Thank you. Looking forward to it. >> Okay. May >> Okay. A new home by
>> There you go. The local restaurant. All right. So, I think Do we have a motion on the table? >> Yeah. >> All right. So, it's been moved and seconded. >> All right. Is there any public comment? >> Seeing none, let's have a roll call on the award of the grant for the windows. >> Board member Cannibal? >> Yes.
>> Board member Ksky? >> Yes. >> Board member Ross? >> Yes. >> Board member Abula? >> Yes. >> Board member Fletcher? >> Yes. >> Vice Chairwoman Bailey? >> Yes. Chairman Lawman. >> Yes. Glad we could get it done. >> Thank you. Appreciate it. >> All right. Moving on to tab four.
Tab four is a resolution of the board of community redevelopment agency of the city of Homestead, Florida, accepting a grant award from the Florida Communities Trust through the Florida Forever Program for the Homestead Southwest 8th Avenue Land Acquisition Project authorizing the city manager to execute the Florida Communities Trust Grant
Agreement and all related documents authorizing the establishment of a budget for the receipt and expenditure of grant funds authorizing matching funds an amount not to exceed $70,833 providing for implementation and providing for an effective date.
>> Thank you. It's been moved and seconded. We'll we'll ra we'll wave your uh you know encyclopedic knowledge of this item, right? >> Okay. >> Comment. >> Yes. >> Just a comment. So, this is a grant to acquire that property on the corner of
like it says >> shotgun parcel. >> A shotgun parcel. >> Do we do we have a contract? Do we have a verbal agreement? Do we have a letter of intent to purchase? So, as a part of the grant application process and the requirement of the state, there has been an appraisal that was completed and a
signature uh from the property owner as a willing seller. Uh we have shared with them that that was contingent on us being awarded the grant. The reason we are bringing this forward to now and without a contract is that there are specific timelines required by Florida
Community Trust and that includes us first accepting that. So once we accept this then we will complete the required processes through the state. We have notified the uh property owner by way of their their representation that we are seeking to proceed now in negotiating
the contract uh and we will will presumably hopefully come to something at which point we'll be able to expend these funds. But we're we're following the order of the FCT based on their timelines. So, so we we we we commit to
accepting this money. What happens if the seller backs out of this transaction? Do we lose this opportunity or can we use that money for other other stuff? >> No, the grant as it was written was specific to um this property location as
a public park area for a variety of reasons. So, if we are unable to come to terms with the property owner on an acquisition price, we would decline the grant. The funds would go away. We would not use them elsewhere.
>> All right. I think we have a motion and a second. Let's have uh any public comment. Close the public hearing and have a roll call vote on tab four. >> Board member Fletcher. >> Yes. >> Board member Ron. Yes. >> Board member Cannibal. >> Board member Abula. Yes. >> Member Ksky.
>> Yes. >> Vice Chairwoman Bailey. >> Yes. >> Chairman Losner. >> Yes. >> The MOT. >> Tab five. >> Tab five is a resolution of the board of the community redevelopment agency of the city of Homestead, Florida, authorizing the CRA director to enter into a license agreement with the city
of Homestead for the temporary use of CR owned property located at 305 Southwest 6 Terrace in the city for the purposes of operating the city's employee health and wellness clinic and providing for an effective date. Moved by Councilman Roth, seconded by Councilman Fletcher.
Any further from the board? A public comment? Close the public hearing. Roll call vote. >> Board member Roth. >> Yes. >> Board member Ksky, >> yes. >> Board member Cannibal, >> yes. >> Board member Abula, >> yes. >> Board member Fletcher, >> yes. >> Vice Chairwoman Bailey, >> yes.
>> Chairman Lner, >> yes. >> The motion carries. >> And my iPhone just hit 9:30, so let's have a motion to adjourn. said. >> Good night everybody. Thank you. Meeting adjourned. >> 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 Digi Plan 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. 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. gov/job and apply today. >> 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 bug 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. gov/fixit.
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 bulb's 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. Introducing the energywasting Johnson's. When it comes to heating and cooling, conserving energy was never at the top of the Johnson's to-do list. They set their AC on 72 all day long, adding up to 8% more to their bill for every
degree below 78. They also let their bushes get overgrown around the outside compressor, a device that accounts for more than 40% of the household's energy expense. And all that wasted energy was costing them a bundle. But today, the Johnson's have learned their lesson, our
energy smart, and discovered how to not only save energy, but save money as well. Now, their to-do list includes keeping the compressor clean and debrisf free, so nothing blocks or restricts air flow to the unit, allowing it to work as efficiently as possible.
setting the thermostat between 78° and 80° and installing a more efficient high sear heating and cooling system, including a heat pump. And their new ceiling fans make it feel up to 5° cooler and could reduce energy use by 10%. With all their saving, the top of
their new list includes a fun-filled family vacation. Brought to you by your local municipal electric utility and the Florida Municipal Power Agency. In Homestead, we're building the energy system of the future. One that's
stronger, smarter, and ready for what's next. From undergrounding utilities to replacing aging wooden poles with resilient concrete poles and upgrading substation infrastructure to increase capacity and keep the lights on for decades to come. We're investing today
in Homestead to ensure that we're prepared for the future. reliable, affordable, and resilient power. That's our commitment to you, and we're doing it while keeping the rates among the lowest in Florida. According to the Florida Municipal Electric Association,
Homestead Public Services has one of the lowest residential electric rates in the state. Our customers pay just $118 per,000 kilowatt hours, well below the state average and FPL. In addition to affordability, HPS currently holds a
diamond level reliable public power designation, recognizing excellence in reliability, safety, workforce development, and system improvements. Because we're not just powering today, we're preparing for tomorrow. Homestead.
The future lives here. Homestead Homestead. Homestead. Beautiful. As temperatures rise in Homestead, the risk of heat related illnesses and injuries also increases, posing significant threats to outdoor
worker safety and productivity. Follow these tips to stay safe and beat the heat. Stay hydrated and take breaks in the shade. Wear appropriate clothing and wear sunscreen. Know the signs. Learn the symptoms of heat illnesses. For more
information on extreme heat safety, visit homesteadfl.gov/heat. Just in time for summer, the splash pad at James Archer Smith Park is back and better than ever. Tons of water, tons of fun, and tons of smiles under the South Florida sun. The splash pad is already
open, but you can't miss the official ribbon cutting on National Waterpark Day on July 28th starting at 2 p.m. with free snow cones while supplies last. Brought to you by the city of Homestead. It starts in the parks. 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 energyefficient light bulbs and fixtures. For tips on how to save money and cool your home efficiently, visit homesteadfl.gov/heat. The GarcAs learned to be energy
efficient inside their home, from lighting to laundry and everything in between. But then they started to wonder about how they use water. They found the leak in their toilet by putting a little food coloring in the tank, which showed up in the bowl within minutes,
indicating a leaking flapper valve. This simple fix could save about 200 gall a day or 6,000 gall a month. They use a lowflow shower head and changed their leaking faucet washers. So, what about the outside of their home? Once again,
the GarcA went to work. Now, they save about 150 gallons of water by not running the hose constantly when they wash the car. The EPA says a typical family uses at least 50% of their water, quenching lawns and plants.
Unfortunately, 60% may be wasted because of evaporation or overwatering. So, the GarcAs use a timer, irrigate in the early morning, and use only the minimal amount of time recommended by the local water authority. They've also planted evergreens to provide yearround shade
for even more efficiency of their conditioned air. Now, the GarcAs are a model of efficiency, mega savers of energy and money, and a credit to their community and to the planet. Brought to you by your local municipal electric utility and the Florida Municipal Power
Agency. 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, Wickop, 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. Looking for a new job or your next career opportunity? The city of
Homestead invites you to attend our community job fair, bringing together city departments and local businesses that are actively hiring. Meet employers from a wide range of industries. Learn about full-time and part-time opportunities and explore careers right
here in our community. Some employers will even be conducting on-site interviews and career resources will be available to help you strengthen your resume and prepare for your next step. And if you're a Homestead based business, the city of Homestead invites local employers to exhibit at the
community job fair. Join us Thursday, April 23rd from 2:00 p.m. to 700 p.m. at the Fel Williams Community Center located at 951 Southwest 4 Street in Homestead. Whether you're entering the workforce, changing careers, or simply
looking for your next great hire, this event is for you. Bring copies of your resume, dress professionally, and come ready to connect with employers or future employees. To register and learn more, visit homesteadfl.gov/jobfare. Homestead. The future lives here.
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 at the Simol Theater to light fixture sculptures in the Curium, 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 to $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 unlocked 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 installed 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 establish 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 Aayquaba 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. 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 Seminal 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 was sick. 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. >> Well, good afternoon everyone and welcome to welcome you to the city of homestead council presentation ceremony
for the month of uh March. Again, we welcome you all here. We have a uh fairly short uh agenda, very few presentations this evening, but that is certainly not to diminish the importance of of either one of those. So,
you know, later this evening, Councilwoman Bailey will recognize some of the women who who work here in city hall and throughout the city. Uh March is a month that we also recognize a group of folks who work almost
anonymously and aren't high-profile uh in this building and that's our procurement department. And uh if I could have all of our procurement folks who are here come up and join me. So, these are the folks that we can
thank for helping keep, you know, the expenditure of public money on the up and up. And if we need to blame them for taking too long to getting something out, we can we can do that, too. They've got got broad shoulders. But, uh, again, typically the month of March nationally
is National Procurement Month. So, we have prepared a proclamation. Whereas public procurement professionals, professionals, key word here, professionals play a crucial role in ensuring that taxpayer dollars are spent
responsibly, transparently, and in a manner that promotes fairness, efficiency, and accountability in government operations. And whereas procurement professionals are responsible for acquiring the goods, services, and infrastructure nec necessary to support essential public
services, including public safety, transportation, public works, and community development. And during times of economic uncertainty, supply chain disruption. Doesn't that seem like it was a lifetime ago? Supply chain disruption.
and rapidly evolving technology. Procurement professionals demonstrate leadership and innovation in identifying solutions that support continuity of government operations while maintaining fiscal responsibility. And whereas the month of March is recognized nationally as National
Procurement Month. It's a time to acknowledge the dedication, professionalism, and expertise of our procurement officials who serve communities across the nation. The city of Homestead joins in recognizing the invaluable contributions
of its own procurement professionals who work diligently to ensure the city obtains the highest value for its residents while maintaining transparency, ethical conduct, and compliance with applicable laws and res and regulations.
Now therefore, I, Steven Lawson, by virtue of the authority vested in me as the mayor of city Homestead, do hereby proclaim March 2026 as National Procurement Month in Homestead. Please feel free.
just just want to say thank you very much to the mayor and council and the manager's office. Um they are we are all very hardworking individuals and we're proud to serve this community. So thank you very much. But now, if I could have our own chief of police, Mario Knap, and Officer
Daniel Cello, join me. Uh, we have a very special presentation this evening in recognition of truly one of our many of Homestead's finest. Chief, >> thank you, Mayor. Mayor, Council, and City Manager,
tonight I have the privilege of recognizing an act that represents the very best of this profession and the very best of your Homestead Police Department. On January 19th of this year, one of your police officers, Officer Daniel Chella, Cella, sorry, he
has an uncle on a on another department that I used to work for, and he went by Daniel or or Dominic Chella. So, I don't know what the what the discrepancy is, but Officer Cell responded to what was dispatched as a possible suicide in progress. Now, if you know anything
about police work, you know that you're not always uh confronted with what the call represents, at least or how it's dispatched. In this case, what he was encountered with was not just a call. It was a life literally hanging on a thread.
As he approached, officer Cella observed a young man hanging motionless inside of the residence. He was hanging himself off of a staircase. Without hesitation at looking through the window, and without waiting and without backup, he very unselfishly made
a decision to act. He shattered a front window, crawled through the window of the home, and physically interveneed to save that boy's life. And when I say boy, I say that because I have a a kid that's nearly that age. And watching the video was pretty uh graphic and uh very
heart-wrenching. When he couldn't free the fabric by hand, he improvised and he received a tool. So, if you look at the body warn camera footage, you can see him trying to hold the young man's body up to release some of the tension from his
neck. I can see how he was looking and he was looking all over the house looking for a solution to be able to cut him down. And what he ended up doing was he ended up finding a nearby table, dragged the table over under him and tried to reposition uh this young man's body in a way to relieve some of the
pressure and relieve some of the airway. And he did that quickly and then quickly ran across and grabbed a butcher's block that had knives and scissors, grabbed the scissor and started to cut him down. The victim had no meaningful signs of
life at the time. Officer Culla made efforts to maintain an open airway and brought him back slowly. You can see his life slowly coming back to him. On that day when that young man who found himself in what we can only imagine or only categorize as a helpless situation
that caused him to make a decision to end his life, Officer Cella, your Homestead police officer, and his actions caused this young man's life to to to continue. Um, this is not a this is not
routine police work. This is not courage or I'm sorry, this is not routine police work. This was courage. This was decis decisiveness under pressure and this was a refusal to stand by when seconds mattered. At your Homestead Police Department, we often talk about
professionalism, compassion, and service above self. But every once in a while, an officer reminds us that or what that truly looks like in real life. And that's what Officer Cell did. He didn't just respond to a call. He changed outcomes of not only a human life, but
an outcome for an entire family. So on behalf of this city and this department, I want to present you not only with a commendation for your actions and this public recognition, but also the Homestead Police Department's life-saving award. Congratulations. Oh, wait.
Thank you very much. I wasn't prepared for a speech, but uh I want to say thank you to the to the city and the department for giving me a chance to come work for this amazing department and giving me the opportunity to succeed in my life and career. Thank
you again. Appreciate it everybody. truly incredible and and just really inspiring. And I'm sure those scenarios repeat themselves every day almost throughout our city and and this community. And as we sit here cool and comfortable this evening, it's a
reminder that you never know what someone's going, the darkness that occurs in in people's lives every day. and we were there to uh to help bring back that light. So that concludes this presentation ceremony. We have some time
before we need to convene the monthly council meeting. So anyone like to come and take some more family photos with the officer or some of the procurement folks, please feel free. Thank you all. I'd like to call the Wednesday, March
18th, 2026 council meeting to order. It is now 6 pm. This evening, we'll have the invocation by Reverend Howard Harden, senior pastor of the First Baptist Church of Homestead, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance with the Homestead Police Explorers. Could you please rise?
Thank you, Pastor Harden. >> It's on the side there. Let us pray. We thank you, oh God, for who you are. You are almighty in power and perfect and wisdom. And yet your love for us is
just as great. And we thank you because you give to us the freedoms that we enjoy. You bestow upon us the rights that we possess. In your wisdom, you created the governing authorities that are over us so that we might by them
enjoy peace and prosperity in the land. And now, having received all of these things from you, we pray that you give us the grace to govern ourselves. We pray for our mayor and our vice mayor and our council that you would give them
wisdom and discernment in every decision that is made and help them to honor you even in the way those decisions are made. I pray that you would help us as citizens to be more patient and understanding with our elected leaders and not only when we agree with them but
especially when we don't. And finally, God, we pray for all of our first responders. We lift up those who are charged with protecting us, those who are in harm's way, be it at home or abroad. Watch over them, oh Lord. I pray
these things in Christ's name. Amen. >> Thank you. Please forward. left, right, left, left, right, left, left, left, right.
Right faith present all. Please join with me. I pledge 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. >> Order of Left face forward march. Thank you. Please be seated.
>> So, Madam Clerk, could you call the role, please? >> Councilwoman Ksky, >> here. >> Councilman Cannibal, >> here. >> Councilwoman Abula, >> here. >> Councilman Roth. Councilman Fletcher, >> here. >> Vice Mayor Bailey >> here. >> Mayor Lawson >> here. Thank you. We have a quorum. All
right. This is the section of the agenda where I will call for public comments from folks first in the audience. Uh first who have have signed up and second those online uh with respect to any matter if you're
here to speak on a land use item, a zoning so to speak. You'll have the opportunity then. But uh any other issue um we'll open the floor now. Uh the first uh individual who signed up is uh
Reginald Joseph. You're still here. Not here yet. Okay. Miss Miss Hudac, you signed up, but we're going to get to your presentation in uh in just a moment. All right. Is there anyone online wishing to make a
public comment? Okay. So, last chance. Speak now forever. Hold your peace. Public. Yes. Please come to the podium. >> Good evening. Welcome.
>> Good evening, Mayor. Good evening, honorable mayor Steve Rossner, Vice Mayor Jennifer Edbury, esteemed members of the Homestead City Council, and distinguished guests. I feel privileged to attend tonight's
meeting as a praise of the Homestead Asian Pastor Association. This organization unites churches of various denominations and represent a collective congregation of more than 2,000 members in our belove city since
1997. It is both an honor and a profound responsibility to stand before you this evening on behalf of our pastors congregations and board the Haitianame community to express our deep appreciation
and unwanted support for the city of Homestead acknowledgement and celebration of Haitian flag day celebration flag day. Allow me first to extend our heartfelt gratitude to you, Mayor Rosner, Vice Mayor Benifer uh By
and the entire city council for your support for your consistent dedication to inclusivity, cultural recognition and civic unity, your continued engagement with the Haitian community and your commitment to
ensuring that all cultures are represented and respected within the are noble examples of leadership responsive to the diverse fabric of our community. The celebration of Haitian flag day is not merely an act of
cultural commemoration. It is a profound affirmation of freedom, resilience, and unity. The Haitian flag occupies a sacred place in our history. It stands as a global emblem of liberation
symbolizing the enduring triumph of justice and human dignity. It reminds us that Haiti was the first independent black republic in the world born from the struggle against oppression and injustice. The values of body and that flag freedom, perseverance and equality
resonate deeply with the ideals that define the American spirit and the mission of the city of Homestead. And homestead Asian flag day is more than a remembrance of history. It is a bridge connecting generations and
communities. It allows our children and young people many of whom were born and here to celebrate their heritage proudly with rec recognizing the essential war within the both the American narrative. By commemorating this day, our city is
not only celebrating Haitian culture, but also affirming his commitment to unity and diversity, civic inclusion, and mutual respect within the Homestead Haitian Pastor Association. We see this
recognition as an opportunity to to strengthen our partnership with the city through faith-based leadership, community service, and shared values. Our organization seeks to contribute positively to Homestead social,
cultural, and spiritual growth. We believe that the acknowledgement of Haitian flag day reflects the city forward thinking vision, one that invites every culture to share its story for the advancement of all. As we
prepare for the accommodation flag day celebration, we are eager to continue working collaboratively with the city to ensure that this evening highlights the vibrancy of our community and fosters greater inter intercultural
understanding. We envision a celebration that not only honors our history but also promotes civic engagement, education and fellowship among all homestead residents. In closing, allow me once again to extend our sincere to
you, Mayor Rosner, and to you, Vice Mayor, for all your dedication and for each member of the council for voting and accepting this uh great event to take place. To the entire home city council we thank
you for creating environment where every community feels seen valued and empowered to contribute to the collective good of our city. It is through the spirit of collaboration that homeset continue to thrive becoming a model of unity respect and cultural
richness. May God bless each one of you, bless our great city, and bless the ongoing partnership between the city of Homestead and the Asian community, specifically the Pastor Association. Thank you. Thank you.
Right. Is there anyone else in the audience? Is there anyone online? All right. We will now close the public comment section of the agenda. If there are no objections, I'd like to jump to
tab 17 regarding the uh FIFA presentation. Uh Mr. Manager, while Miss Hudach is coming forward, do you want to tee this up for us? >> Yes. Uh Mr. Mayor, council, and members of the public. Um this item is being put
together by the city administration in collaboration with Councilman Sean Fletcher. Uh we've done some preliminary homework in terms of local activation of the city of Homestead in collaboration with the FIFA World Cup 2026 local
organizing committee headed by Miss Alina Huz Hudak. Uh Alina is someone who is very special for those who don't know her. She is the first and only county manager for Miami date county female county manager for Miami date county.
previously city manager of city of Miami Beach and now leading one of the elite groups that is going to oversee the successful hosting of FIFA World Cup in the local South Florida area. Uh FIFA World Cup 2026 is going to be hosted in
16 locations across North America, Mexico, United States and Canada. Alina is a leader of all seasons. She come well prepared to lead us in the conversation this evening. Uh the city intends to roll out a robust local
activation uh that will be thrilling and exciting for not just city residents but all the entire south deep Miami date. Uh before we get into the details of what the city intend to roll out uh I would like Alina Hud to lead us in her
presentation. She has a brief, I believe two or three minutes uh video as well as she's going to be speaking as well on the final details. Then I will invite uh Councilman Sean Fletcher with his opening remarks. Thank you. >> Thank you, Mr. Manager. Welcome to Homestead and welcome to our city hall.
>> Thank you. Thank you, Mr. Mayor and honorable council women and and men and Mr. Manager. It's an honor to be here tonight and I want to just um commend you because in my 42 years of public service, I don't think I've ever been in such a beautiful city hall and council chamber. So, it's an honor and a
pleasure to be here. Um and thank you, Mr. Manager, for your kind words. We've been peers and colleagues for many years. And again, I I'm here in in, you know, at your invitation and really looking forward to participating and collaborating and looking for ways that,
you know, we can bring the World Cup to um Homestead and and obviously to the southern part of our county that we all love so much. Uh a little bit about um who we are and what we're charged with. We are the Miami Host Committee. We operate under the FIFA regulatory
umbrella and framework because of the contractual relationship that um was executed um probably four years ago when the World Cup bid was accepted by our community. That bid was led by Miami date county as a regional government on
behalf of the community together with the Miami um visitors and convention bureau and other local and and elected leadership. Um what that means is that the host committee is a private nonprofit created here locally. Many people think we are FIFA because we are
branded under that again regulatory framework but we are a separate entity. We're actually housed and and have been housed in Coral Gables and Proono space everything we do we you know we partner with the community and with our board members and um where our offices are
actually across the street. FIFA the organization um is headquartered the World Cup operations is actually headquartered in Miami in Coral Gables. Originally um they started with about 400 to 500 employees. They're growing very quickly in preparation for the implementation of
the World Cup and right now they have over a thousand employees housed here in South Florida. There are 16 host cities in the North American continent. It is a brand new business model that FIFA is implementing. Miami is one of 11 host cities in the United States and it is
the largest World Cup in the history of the World Cup. As a host city, we are charged with making sure that we are prepared to host the the World Cup and the seven matches that are happening here. We are responsible for raising all the funds related to the operational requirements. Those operational
requirements include everything from um public safety to transportation to fan activations to a fan festival which we are proud to be able to host in downtown Miami through a partnership with the city of Miami. We have received not only
financial support but in kind support from three um government and obviously agencies Miami, Miami Beach and Miami date county. And through those public relationships um we have been able to
establish um the core of what it is that that we have to implement. We're in the process actually and have been together with our partners throughout the country very active in accessing federal funding which um just today actually the grant award was finalized and we were notified
of that grant award to be able to reimburse the public safety agencies that will be supporting the seven matches at the stadium. So all good news for us today. Um we are working with commercial partners and again we are limited in our commercial partnerships
as part of the regulatory framework. FIFA has their traditional partners that many of you know all too well. Companies like Adidas, companies like um um Visa, companies like McDonald's, Home Depot are the official commercial partners of FIFA. What that means to a local host
committee like ourselves is that we are not actually allowed to pursue any partners that are competitors in that industry. So every host committee has a very local market of opportunity for purposes of private fundraising and we are proud to partner. Our first
supporter was Royal Caribbean and we are in the process of actually finalizing several of those types of commercial partnerships. So, I tell you all of that as a frame of reference for the operating environment that I'm charged with operating under. I have a very small staff made up of about 20 people.
We're probably one deep in every type of professional category. We have a CFO that doubles as the HR director, the procurement director, the chief administrative officer. We have a chief operating officer. Many of us are um former public safety um people. We have
a retired police chief. We have several public safety professionals on our team um as well as another former city manager. Again, all of us doing all that we can to make sure that the Miami is prepared to host the World Cup. Seven
matches. You will be proud and happy to know that the um match happening in Miami on June 27th, Portugal and Colombia is the single most soughta ticket in the world. um more soughta than the kickoff um in Mexico or the
final in New York. We have another match Brazil and Scotland also probably top five um it's it's probably top 10 right now sought after tickets. So what we know is that Miami while we're not hosting the opener or the final is a
very popular destination and a a place where people want to come to be involved in our matches. The fan festival as I described to you will be 23 days in Bayfront Park. We made a very conscious decision to kick off our fan festival on the front end of the tournament and have
a continuous fan festival. Every city again is operating under different parameters. Some cities have chosen to have dark days and activate during very specific matches. We chose again as an opportunity not only for our residents but for our visiting public to be able
to have as much activation as possible. at the beginning part of the tournament, you have the most viewing opportunities because the matches happen three, four times a day. And so, we want to make sure that we offer our residents and the visiting public as much opportunity. So, we will be operating our FanFest from
June um 13th through July 5th. And following that period, we're working on collaborations such as hopefully what will be the outcome of our conversation tonight, not only with regions and with cities, but we will be hosting um different viewing opportunities post
FanFest to be able to bring the World Cup to different sections of the community. We have as part of uh our mission, not required in our contractual relationship, but as part of our mission, a very real interest in bringing soccer to communities that don't haven't had the exposure. And we
believe very much in the passion for the game in South Florida. And so we're working together with the county commission. Again, the county commission was our most significant funer. And we're rolling out, we started two weeks ago and we're rolling out a community clinics program that will roll out to 16
different jurisdictions and areas and districts throughout the county. This Friday we're doing one at Oakrove Park and um through Commissioner McGee we're working with the city as well to roll one out in Homestead. Um and these are clinics, opportunities for the youth to come and participate in a clinic, but
also soccer education together with the the day we bring um services to that day. And so again, something that we're very committed to a legacy program um that doesn't just speak to infrastructure because infrastructure, you know, you need a commercial partner
to be able to do infrastructure improvements, but we wanted very much before the World Cup to be able to bring those types of opportunities to the community. because the logos that you see in all of your scarves are tied to the intellectual property that FIFA
owns. Um, we've tried to be creative in creating a campaign that we will be able to use without the restrictions that the commercial brand has. And so we've created a campaign that we just started to roll out this weekend that we call one game, one passion. And before I
conclude my comments, I'm going to close out hopefully with a one one minute um reel that we just rolled out this weekend to really just highlight for you what we believe is the passion of the game that exists here in South Florida and the spirit that we hope that you
know we can see in the collaborations with cities like Homestead and throughout not only Miami date county but Broward as well. I will be um actually participating and speaking to Broward next week and Palm Beach County. Teams will be all over the South Florida region. There's actually a base camp
that's going to be headquartered in Tampa. There'll be based camps in Palm Beach. The team hotels will be in different destinations. So, the World Cup will be all over the state of Florida. And we're very excited and grateful um to all of you for the opportunity to be here. If we could roll
that video and I'm happy to stay for any questions that you may have. Do you feel it? That moment before everything begins. Before the first whistle, time slows
down. Because in that moment, everything else fades away. In Miami, football is not just played, it's carried from homes we left, from families we missed, and from dreams that
brought us here. Every match >> is a way back. >> Every goal is a memory. And every whistle makes us one. >> It's not just a game.
>> It's to remember who we are >> and who we become when we stand together. The truth is the world can feel divided but this game reminds us that we are one. >> One game,
>> one passion you >> Yes. Thank you, Mr. Mayor, and thank you, Miss Hudach, for that presentation. And uh let me start by saying I played soccer or football when I was a youth and and and like the the young man doing the back flip trying to kick the ball in
the goal. I tried that many times. Uh was never quite successful at it, but I tried. Um but uh I enjoyed uh growing up in the soccer world up until about 12 and then I decided golf was a better fit for me. But uh always a fan. Uh, Brazil
is probably my favorite team because I was always a Ple fan. >> Sorry, that's who I'm going to be voting for. But, uh, uh, some of the ideas that we kind of came up with and I was just doing some, uh, talking around the table with the assistant city manager and and
the city manager. Um, so, Vice Chair McGee with the county commission uh, has reached out to the city to host a youth soccer clinic on May 30th. Uh so we need to try and work with them to try and emphasize the importance of that and and
make that uh come to fruition. And uh also looking at the city of Homestead uh hosting a fan zone experience as part of our July 4th uh celebration. Uh and then something downtown in the lawn area maybe between uh July 9th through the
19th with a big activation on the last day uh where we can maybe look at closing down Chrome Avenue and and creating a big environment for that uh uh celebration basically. Um, this gives us a regional leadership opportunity with the city. Uh, and it helps us play
a leadership role in organizing the entire South Dade uh, participation and activities surrounding the the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Uh, as Miss Hudac stated, there will be seven matches that will occur at the Hard Rock Stadium and our goal should be to ensure that our communities are actively engaged in the
regional celebration. As part of that celebration, you know, uh we would like to position the city of Homestead as a regional hub for our World Cup fan engagement that includes neighboring municipalities throughout South Dade. So, not just Homestead, Florida City, but we want to reach all
the way up into South Miami uh and create a a great event for for the whole South area. One of the things that I recommend uh that we do is a letter from the city of Homestead City Manager to the South Dade city managers encouraging the
collaboration. Uh request that the mayor also reach out through the uh South Dade Mayor's Council to explore a regional initiative. uh look to uh explore opportunities and partner with the Homestead Miami Speedway as a potential host location
for large scale fan activations and uh watch parties uh during the the tournament. Again, we have to look at how we do that with the overall FIFA sponsorship, but we'll work through those details as we we get closer to it.
uh also look to uh engage uh the additional professional sports teams here in South Florida. Uh you know uh including appearances from team mascots like the Miami Heat, the Miami Dolphins, uh Inter Miami, the Florida Panthers and
Miami Marlins. You you kind of engage everybody and get them all included uh during this big event. Uh also looking to do an uh entertainment entertainment and media activation uh during this time maybe sponsorship or media partnership with Siri Siri
SiriusXM or local DJM dot to help energize our fans here in South. Uh another part that we discussed was looking at local universities to engage them to support programming, volunteers and cultural activations to include uh University of Miami Florida
International, Miami Day College, St. Thomas Barry, uh, all the all the locals. And ultimately, this is going to be a tremendous, uh, community impact for South Dade and will capitalize the global attention surrounding the World Cup. And, uh, you know, being with the
the recent approval of our soontobe football stadium uh, for uh, Miami FC, uh, this is just a tremendous kickoff uh, to get us ready for that in the future. And again, these are just all suggestions, hoping to look at the council for looking at different funding
opportunities that we might be able to do to help make this become a reality for South Date and Homestead because the future is here. >> Thank you. >> Thank you, Councilwoman. Mr. Manager, anything to add? >> Yeah, I think uh if time permits, let me ask the deputy city manager to walk us
through a quick highle timeline and some of the exciting opportunities you want to roll out in in Salade. Thank you, Mr. Mayor. Thank you, Councilwoman Fletcher. Um, at a very high level, I will provide the the game plan, pun on word, game
plan, uh, in three prongs. Um, as Councilman Fletcher referenced, uh, the city has received a request from Vice Chair McGee to facilitate a youth soccer clinic. Um the thought is that we would
utilize should council approve it, we would utilize that opportunity as the official kickoff. Um in speaking with uh Mrs. Hudach um yesterday, uh that would be an official FIFA Miami team event. So
they would bring all of the um a activi activations um from a coordination perspective with the city. we would need to work with uh PH, the sports performance hub. Um they have identified Homestead Regional Park
as the ideal location. Um so we would need to look to them to to get the green light for that activation to take place. Um the second part of the the game plan would look at and this is this this
piece uh requires some fine-tuning having learned about the um stringent uh regulation surrounding FIFA on how we engage the commercial business side. So the initial plan was to look to our
restaurants um regionally and engage them with a partnership. I think we are um at the direction of the manager with consultation from um um Mrs. Hudach and her team. We're going to look at right
sizing that um primarily because we do not the city would not want to be in a in a situation where we partner with a restaurant and they don't follow the FIFA rules and then there is exposure to the city. Right? So, um there is some
right sizing that needs to needs to be considered in that regard. So, that's part two. Um on July 4th, we know it's going to be a race to the fourth event. Um we are looking to merge there is a game on July 4th. So, we are looking to
create a a fan experience as a part of our July 4th celebration. So, we know that the big picture is America 250, the patriotic celebration. However, we intend or the the the the game plan is that we would do a smaller activation
that uh persons can experience and watch the game um should they want to. And then we would round out the the season or or the the the celebration. So from July 9th through 19th, that would
constitute the official I I would say than experience in downtown Homestead. Or as um Councilman Fletcher said, if if the council decides to take a more regional approach, um we could certainly
look to um you know, another site location uh that would facilitate a larger gathering for South Dade. So that is direction that we would look for council to opine on. And then if we decide that
Lzner Park is the location that we we we gain consensus on on the World Cup game, yes, it will not be here in um South Florida, but the recommendation would be that we close down uh Chrome. We invite
the food trucks and just truly have um an outdoor watch party where we're celebrating the entire um experience and and the the the journey of the World Cup. Again, for purposes as we've gotten
guidance from the uh World Cup FIFA World Cup Miami team, we will uh stay away from FIFA references, World Cup references. We will align um our marketing engagement plan with the one
game one passion subbrand. Right? So that is that. So following this discussion, if we gain consensus to continue planning, you will see a shift where we will no longer reference it as FIFA or World Cup. We will go with the
uh I think the the manager says 2026 big soccer game uh aka the one game one uh passion uh marketing model. So that that that is what you will hear and see um if council if council uh gives direction to
proceed. So that's at a very high level the plan um and we look forward to any additional guidance or questions that we may answer. Thank you, Deputy Manager. Council, any initial questions or or comments?
Councilwoman, >> thank you, Mayor. This is very exciting. Um, I did have a question for clarification. The car uh report says June 11th to June to July 19th or are we considering July 9th like? The entire
fan than experience will be June 11th because that is the beginning of the big game big soccer game season uh through July 19th which is the I have to say this one the World Cup game right it's the it's
the end so that is why we have captured the entire uh period the downtown or what we are calling downtown homestead piece of it where the city would activate would be from July 9th through the 19th. Having learned about
the uh fan experience that um will happen in Bayfront Park that will run until July 5th, I think it it's a good complement uh to what the Miami host team is planning.
>> Thank you. And um with regards to the budget that we have here, the fan zone of 30,000, is there an opportunity for us to reach out to the South Date Chamber of Commerce and invite them to participate in um setting up in the fan
zone. So the the that's that that uh that preliminary budget that you have um outlined, Councilwoman, uh does does also look to us identifying sponsors. So yes, we would have to we would have to reach out to the anchor
employers um to to make it happen. >> Would there be a restriction on which businesses due to the commercial uh conflict or with the different branding approach? We wouldn't have an issue. >> We we would have we would want to take
guidance from um the host committee. >> So So before Alina steps to the podium, we asked her for a special favor and she agreed yesterday. Once we finalize a plan, run it by each council member, we'll run it by her office for legal
sufficiency guidance. They do have the licensing from FIFA. We don't want to expose the city. And of course, with the advice of city attorney's office, we reach out to Alina's office to provide us guidance what is doable, the dos and don'ts, and she graciously accepted to
guide us. >> Yeah. >> And again, thank you. this when we had this discussion, it was before we had actually had the meeting with the folks from the Miami team. Um, again, this is big picture idea, you know, to try and put a a face on Homestead and South Dade
uh with the assistance that we can with the with the team. Thank you. >> Thank you. Do you want me to address Yeah. Okay. Um, well, and thank you all for your leadership, which is amazing. I wish I had, you know, 34 of you. Um the
the public viewing guidelines are tricky because there are they're defined by FIFA in different categories. There's public viewing over a certain number of spectators. There's a public viewing below that and then there's commercial when there's a cost associated with attending the actual viewing. Um the the
rights are tied to the two broadcast partners, Fox and Telmundo. And again that the process requires a licensing fee. Um and I've committed to CD Mr. manager that we would be your partner in that and we would actually perhaps even access the feed on your behalf to keep
the cost down. Um but with that comes all of the restrictions that are associated with the commercial partners. Now that again I I don't see where that would impact your very local businesses and your local um restaurants and certainly I think that you know
obviously there's lots of opportunity at a microlo level to be able to raise the kind of money that you would have to raise to do something like this. >> Thank you. And and the you know those questions are are important to me because um you know I would really like the opportunity to help with spreading
the news on the opportunity to try to offset the cost. It is a it is a large sum of money for us to invest. Um and if there's also ways we can bring in tourism funds. Do we have an account under our tourism committee that we could also use towards this?
>> Yeah, we do have some tourism funding. I think there's 10,000 in that. And look, I think this the 30,000 number that we're that's just kind of shot in the dark. I think it could be much more than that, you know, depending on on where we want to go with this. Again, this was just an overall big idea. Let's let's
figure out what the details need to be. But this was trying to gain some consensus among each of us so we could move forward for a big event. That's all. And and if we're able to do it, I think it's going to be extremely exciting for the city of Homestead. >> Thank you. I >> I agree. I think um is the LNER park the
ideal location that you have in mind or did you also consider if it's even available this the the racetrack? So, we looked at two different things, you know, for, you know, initially was uh, of course, the the event with Chairman McGee, the kickoff on May 30th, but July
4th being a big expansion of that to include our neighboring cities. And then ultimately, it would be to activate downtown. But if it's bigger than what we think, then we have to look at other venues. And I think again, we're at the we're at the baby steps portion of this where we're not even crawling yet. We're
we're right there. But we have we have a little homework to do over the next couple of weeks to get this thing moving. >> Will this will this be coming back to us for another decision or I think this is the direction to give you guys our >> you give us direction today to move on with the planning stage of this once the
budget and the plan is finalized vetted by the respective stakeholders we will come back to council for approval of the final budget. In the interim, we'll be looking at reaching out to all the specific stakeholders, SPH, Baptist Hospital, BJS and the rest for funding
and sponsorship in terms of money and uh there is a reason why we want to concentrate on lawn park. We don't know yet how the weather condition is going to be towards that date. So it gives us a two-step approach. You can have an indoor activation in seminal theater as
well as outdoors. So the elderly folks and young kids that need seating areas can stay inside the loss inside the seminal theater and the rest can be outdoors. That's the only attraction I see. >> Well, overall I think it's a great
opportunity to shine the light on city of Homestead and to incorporate the businesses to participate and uh I'd be looking forward to supporting the item. Thank you, >> Councilman Cannibal. >> Yes, this time I will talk. Okay. This
is the biggest party in the world. Okay. It's a privilege having the hosting committee over here. And yes, I will be gladly to approve this. And you know, Flesher P was my my hometown. That guy
was something else. And Brazil was my team when I was a kid. So I was I'm with you with that. Thank you. >> Thank you, Councilman. Vice Mayor. >> Thank you, Mayor. definitely very excited about this. Um, we need to start
practicing and talking the talk from here on out. It is football. It is not soccer. Okay. So, let's get that piece right. Um, but just one little thing to to consider. I I love the idea of Lner Park and being being able to incorporate the seminal theater. Um, I'm sure there
will be other opportunities to host something in larger larger areas, but to be able to activate the downtown and just bring all different cultures together. Um, that's one of the things we're going to talk about a little bit in the Haitian heritage event is, uh,
football is one thing. It's a universal language. Um, so very excited about that. Um, we talked about it a little before when this first came up as a discussion. four years ago, I believe it was AYSO who was looking for some
funding and we got creative and tried to help some of the local businesses decorate minimal minimal effort uh minimal dollars. Um but let's say it's it's two different countries playing that day. Uh we could set up these these local businesses that were interested in
hosting somewhat of a watch party obviously with the regular TVs they have there. Um, but to make it fun and to to draw attention to these businesses is also a very big piece. It might be on the smaller scale for us, but but a big
difference in helping to put them on the map. So, something for consideration and can't wait. But it's a Netherlands that will be uh victorious this time around. >> Thank you. Anyone else? I think that
in short, we're we're being asked tonight to give a thumbs up or a thumbs down to go to, you know, beyond the very first baby step of let's jail these plans, try to put some real numbers to it and thumbs up >> and go forward.
Oh, do we have a council consist consist >> consensus to uh >> to allow the manager and his staff to go forward with you putting this together? Come back >> what you need. >> Okay. >> Again, thank you for coming down.
It's exciting times for South Florida on many different levels. All right. So I want to jump now with if there's no objection to go ahead and cover tabs 12, 13, 14, and 15, which
deal with our insurance renewals. I believe a representative from Brown and Brown is here. I don't want to hold uh them up too long tonight for the rest of the agenda. So uh let's let's start with tab 13. Tab uh tab 12.
So mayor and council type 12 is a resolution to authorize the purchase of property insurance for cityowned non-power plant properties excluding city hall the police station and saggrarium. Uh thanks to the very
excellent work that has been done by Brown and Brown uh we're getting a 3.76% reduction in the premium. >> Very good. Mr. Mr. White want to read the resolution please. Yes. Tab 12 is a resolution of the city council of the city of homes in Florida waving
competitive bidding bidding requirement for city-owned property insurance contract excluding city hall police stationarium and power plant and substations with national fire marine insurance company Lloyds of London Endurance American Specialty Company Evston Insurance Company and Landmark American
Insurance Company in accordance with city code section 2-411 sub paragraph E exemptions from competitive bidding authorizing the transaction and providing for an effective Thank you. Let's go ahead and read 13,4 and 15 and we'll have the global discussion and individual votes.
>> Sure. Tab 13 is a resolution of the city. >> Hang on, hang on, James. There is a substitution for 13 that was shared this afternoon. Uh the money's changed. So instead of a 10% reduction, we're
getting a 19.6% reduction. Almost twice as much reduction. >> Very good. >> Right. That's the only minor change. Right. But there's no change in the title of the resol. >> No change in the title. Yeah. So tab 13, a resolution of the city council of city homes of Florida waving competitive bidding requirement for city- owned
property insurance contract for the police station located at 45 northwest 1st Avenue, city hall located at 100 Northeast Civic Court and the Cyberium located at 8 80 West Maui Drive through the Arrowhead General Insurance Agency as program manager for Princeton Access and Surplus Lines Insurance Company,
General Security Indemnity Company of Arizona, Steedfast Insurance Company, Transfer Specialty Insurance Company, accredited Specialty Insurance Company QBE specialty insurance company in accordance with city code section 2-411E exemptions from competitive bidding
authorizing transaction providing for an effective date. Tab 14 is a resolution of city council of city pumpstead Florida reading competitive bidding requirement for power plant and substation insurance contract with star surplus lines insurance company and with chub insurance in accordance with city
code section 2-411e exemptions from competitive bidding authorizing transaction providing for an effective date and finally tab 15 is a resolution of city council of city homestead Florida waving competitive bidding requirement for terrorism insurance contract with his cox written through Lloyds of London in accordance with city
code section 2- 411E exemptions from competitive bidding, authorizing transaction, and providing for an effective date. >> Thank you, Mr. Manager. Anything to add? We sounds like we did very well this year on premium reductions.
>> Excellent. We want to give special thanks to Bran and Brown. uh up until late yesterday afternoon they were still working on these items which made us receive an additional double reduction in the premium for the city hall uh
coverage initially was a 10% reduction in premium as of this afternoon it had gone up to 19.6% 6% reduction in the premium. >> Thank you, Brandon Brown. >> Very good. And uh >> mayor, can I chime in real quick?
>> So, going back to tab 13 with the reductions, I have two different cover sheets. One says it's a decrease of 10%. One says a decrease of 25.7%. You're saying it's 19%.
>> I don't know what, Councilman. I don't know what uh you have in front of you. What I have here is originally for top was originally 10%. >> Have that one. >> So this afternoon Brand and Brand came back. Uh you want to speak to that?
>> So I I think the confusion is that the total decrease is 25.7, but the number that you're seeing um Councilman Roth is the 19 is on top of the original 10. So the original was the the original um
decrease was about 10%. And then Brown and Brown went back and got an additional 19 and change. >> That' be 29. >> I'm getting confused. >> Let's have our insurance lady explain. >> Councilman Roth, do you have there was
there was revised information for tab 13 that was handed out. >> Yeah, we've we've got that. It says 25.7 in the revised narrative. >> Hi, good evening everyone. >> Welcome. >> Michelle Wilson with Bren and Brown. >> Um, usually there's an older gentleman
up here. So, new face. Um, very good question. So, the 25.7% is your reduction from last year's premium from 2025. What city manager was saying was we originally came in 10%
decrease from 2025 and I'm sorry 10% decrease from 2025 and we came in now with a 25.7% from 2025. The 20% is from the first premium that we originally gave you for
2026. So for 2026, our original premium was 218,000. So that would have been 218,000 from the 240,000 from last year. Now, we're coming in at 178,000.
I'm not sure what summary you guys have in front of you. >> So, where's the 19% coming in at? What is that? He mentioned >> 19% is from the original quote that we provided, which was 218%.
>> 218,000. >> I'm sorry, 218,000. That was our original quote. Okay. So, so we're going to enjoy the 25.7% decrease in premium. >> You got it. >> 19% doesn't mean anything to us anymore. And the original 10% doesn't mean
anything to us anymore. >> Correct. From 2025 to 2026, you're seeing a 25.7% decrease. >> Well, thank you and thank you for the explanation and thank you for working that hard for us. We appreciate that. >> Amen. >> Yeah. Once we got more competitors into
the game, they they definitely stepped up. >> Good. Thank you. >> Absolutely. That's all, Mary. >> And of course, thank you. And one caveat in speaking this afternoon to that unnamed older gentleman, we did recognize there is the potential
for an increase on the the cap of our sovereign immunity, which could impact some of our liability in the future. We'll have to make those decisions later. >> You got it. >> All right. Thank you. >> So, all right. We have a mo on tab 12.
We have a motion by Vice Mayor Bailey. >> Second by Councilwoman Cannibal. There's nothing further. Let's have a roll call vote on tab 12. >> Councilwoman Avula, >> yes. >> Councilwoman Ksky, >> yes. >> Councilman Ross, >> yes. >> Councilman Fletcher, >> yes.
>> Councilman Cannibal, >> yes. >> Vice Mayor Bailey, >> yes. >> Mayor Lawson, >> yes. >> The motion carries. >> So, I need a motion to approve tab 13 for the purchase of that coverage. Moved by Councilman Roth. >> Second by Councilman Cannibal. Let's have a roll call. >> Councilwoman Ksky,
>> yes. >> Councilman Cannibal, >> yes. >> Councilwoman Avula, >> yes. >> Councilman Roth, yes. >> Councilman Fletcher, >> yes. >> Vice Mayor Bailey, >> yes. >> Mayor Losner, >> yes. >> The motion carries. >> And can I have a motion for tab 14? Moved by Councilman Roth.
>> Second by Vice Mayor Bailey. Roll call. >> Councilman Roth. Yes. >> Councilwoman Ksky. >> Yes. >> Councilwoman Avula. Councilman Fletcher. >> Yes. >> Councilman Cannibal. Vice Mayor Bailey. Mayor Losner. >> Yes. >> The motion carries. >> And finally, tab 15. Moved by Councilman
Roth. >> Second by Councilman Cannibal. So, roll call, please, Madam Clerk. >> Councilwoman Councilwoman Abula, >> yes. >> Councilman Fletcher, >> yes. >> Councilwoman Ksky, >> yes. >> Councilman Cannibal, >> Councilman Roth, Vice Mayor Bailey, >> yes.
>> Mayor Losner, >> yes. >> The motion carries. >> Thank you for coming out tonight. appreciate. Glad we were able to uh get you out of here in a reasonable amount of time. Okay, we will go back to agenda item four, which are additions,
deletions, or deferrals. Mr. Manager, do you have any >> uh Mr. Mayor and Council, there's only one substitution. I believe is for tab number 19 for the senior prom. >> I think it's been distributed already. >> I believe it's been inserted into our
our agenda packet. was mine earlier. Um, Mr. White, last month we had deferred the potential accessory dwelling use ordinance until tonight. It seems that there's no reason to to deal with that based on legislative action at this
point. Can we defer it indefinitely until such time as we feel it needs to to be readressed? You could certainly but but you're correct in that the pending legislation that was being discussed in Tallahassee
>> did not go forward. >> Did not go forward. >> Right. >> So, >> but it could next session. >> Could next session. So, we could just keep the the ordinance in obeyance and until such time as you all direct otherwise we can bring it forward. >> So, do we need to take any formal action
tonight? I think you can just defer it, not to a date certain, and we can just readvertise it. >> All right. Moved by Councilwoman Avala, second by Councilman Fletcher. All in favor? >> Any opposed? All right. That takes us then to Thank you, Mr. White. That takes
us to the consent agenda. Tabs 1 A, B, and C. Do I have a motion to approve the consent agenda? It's been moved. Have a second. Any questions or comments? All in favor? That takes us to tab six. M. Item six,
Mr. White. >> Yes. Tab six is a resolution of the city council of the city of Homestead, Florida adopting and authorizing the submission of amended 2020 2021 annual action plan United States Department of Housing and Urban Development for approval reallocating CDBGCV funds. No,
tab six. Item six, the the legislative >> tab two. >> Sorry. It's the second reading of an ordinance to the city of home serve Florida amending city code of ordinances by amending chapter 16 local business taxes and business regulations article 2 local business tax receipt section 1640
schedule of local business taxes by adopting the North American industry classification system manual to replace the standard industrial classification system as a standard by which all business occupations and professions subject to a local business tax shall be classified repealing and replacing
related provisions to reflect the adoption of the NIC CS manual providing for serverability inclusion in the code conflicts and providing for an effective date. This is second and final reading. >> Thank you. A second reading. Any questions or comments from council? Is there anyone wishing to speak on this
item? There anyone online? All right. I will close the public hearing and ask for a motion to approve on second reading. Moved by Cannibal. Second by >> Fletcher. Councilman Fletcher. Roll call, please. Madam clerk. Councilwoman
Abula, Councilwoman Ksky, Councilman Roth, >> Councilman Fletcher, >> yes. >> Councilman Cannibal, >> yes. >> Vice Mayor Bailey, yes. >> Mayor Losner, >> yes. >> The motion carries. >> We on to tab three. Second reading. Tab three is a second reading of an ordinance to the city of Homes Florida amending the city code of ordinances by
amending chapter 30 zoning article 4 supplemental district regulations division one generally to create section 30-4052 entitled frontage definition for addressing purposes establishing standards for determining official property addressing for interior lots corner lots vacant parcels commercial
and mixeduse properties and double frontage lots providing for severability inclusion in the code conflicts and providing for an effective date this is second and final reading >> thank you Mr. Mr. Wright, are there any questions or comments from council on this item? So, let me open the floor for public comment.
Okay, I'll close the public hearing. Ask for a motion to approve. Moved by Councilman Roth. Second by Councilwoman Avala. Roll call, please, Madam Clerk. On tap three. Councilman Fletcher. >> Councilwoman Ksky. >> Councilwoman Ailu.
>> Yes. >> Councilman Cannibal. Councilman Ross. Vice Mayor Bailey. >> Yes. Mayor Lner. >> Yes. >> The motion carries. >> Moving on to tab four. >> Yes. Tab four is a second reading of an ordinance to the city of Homestead Florida amending the budget for the Stormwater utility fund for the fiscal
year beginning October 1, 2025 and ending September 30th, 2026 by increasing the total budget revenues and expenditures by 2 million providing for servability providing for an effective date. This is second and final reading. >> Any objection to waving the staff report? Didn't think so. Do we have a
motion to approve tab four? Moved by Councilman Fletcher, >> second by Councilman Cannibal. And I already had reasonable opportunity to be heard, so we don't need to open the public hearing. We did that at the front of the meeting. So, let's have a roll call.
>> Councilman Roth, >> yes. >> Councilwoman Ksky, >> yes. >> Councilman Cannibal, >> Councilwoman Abula, >> yes. >> Councilman Fletcher, >> yes. >> Vice Mayor Bailey, Mayor Osman, >> yes. >> The motion carries. >> Thank you. Tab five. Tab five is the second reading of an ordinance to the
city of Homesteader, Florida, amending chapter 19 of the city code by creating article 7 entitled squatters by adding definitions providing for methods of enforcement referencing sections 82.036 and 82.037 Florida statutes and requiring information to be submitted to the city
for enforcement against violations providing for inclusion in the code providing for severability providing for conflicts and providing for an effective date. This is second and final reading. >> Thank you sir. Moved by Councilman Cannibal. We have a second. No objection to the reading of the staff
report. So, let's have a roll call on tab five. >> Councilwoman Ksky, >> yes. >> Councilwoman Abula, >> Councilman Roth, yes. >> Councilman Fletcher, >> yes. >> Councilman Cannibal, >> Vice Mayor Bailey, >> yes. >> Mayor Losner, >> yes. >> The motion carries.
>> Thank you. Tab six. AB six is a resolution of city council of the city of Homestead, Florida, adopting an authorizing submission of amended 2020 2020 annual action plan. It's the United States Department of Housing Urban Development for approval reallocating CBDG funds providing for implementation providing for an
effective date. >> Thank you. Any objection to waving the staff report? Moved by Counciloman Aavala. I have a second. Second by Councilman Cannibal. Any further question or comments from councel? >> Mr. Mayor. >> Yes. I think there is a minor
amendment the administration would like to propose. Um he references in the scope of work that the eligible funds are to be for replacement of restroom doors at James Archer Smith Park and Witcock Park and
other eligible city park restroom facilities. Want to strike the word restrooms and leave it just park facilities. >> Sorry. the maker of the motion and second. Okay. >> Thank you, Mr. Manager. >> I got more more encompassing.
>> Yes. >> So, just for clarification, if bathroom doors will be installed before you move to another park and fix other doors, those restrooms should be painted first. >> That's correct. >> Thank you.
>> Very good. Okay. So, we're covered there. Did we have a motion in the second one? I think we did. Okay. Okay. So, let's have a roll call vote. >> Councilwoman Abula, >> yes. >> Counciloman Roth, >> yes. >> Councilwoman Ksky, >> yes. >> Councilman Cannibal, >> yes. >> Councilman Fletcher,
>> yes. >> Vice Mayor Bailey, >> yes. >> Mayor Osnner, >> yes. >> The motion carries. >> Uh, tastes tab seven. Correct. >> Correct. >> Okay. >> Tab seven. >> Yeah. >> Tab seven is a resolution of city council of the city of Homestead, Florida approving the award of a
contract to H&R Paving, Inc. and National Traffic Solutions, Inc. for ITB number 202602, street resurfacing, providing for implementation and providing for an effective date. >> Thank you. Much needed. Any questions or
comments from councel? This one. We have a motion moved by the vice mayor, second by Councilman Cannibal. There's nothing further from council. I'll ask for a roll call vote on tab seven. >> Councilman Fletcher, >> yes. >> Councilwoman Abilo,
>> yes. Councilman Cannibal. Yes. >> Councilman Roth. Councilwoman Ksky. Yes. >> Vice Mayor Bailey. Yes. Mayor Losa. >> Yes. >> The motion. C. >> And moving on to tab eight. And describe that piece of equipment three times quickly. Tab 8 is a resolution of the city
council of the city of Homestead, Florida, approving the award of ITB number 202612, purchase of sequencing batch reactor decanters or the wastewater treatment facility to Fline Corp. in the amount of
$434,800 providing for implementation and providing for an effective date. >> Thank you. Do we have a motion to approve this item? Moved by Councilman Fletcher. Second by Councilman Cannibal. Any questions or comments from council on item eight? And appearing, I will ask
for a roll call vote on tab eight, please. >> Councilwoman Abula, >> yes. >> Councilman Fletcher, >> yes. >> Councilman Roth, yes. >> Councilwoman Ksky, >> yes. >> Councilman Cannibal, >> yes. >> Vice Mayor Bailey, >> Mayor Losner, >> yes. >> The motion carries. >> Moving on to tab nine regarding
recycling services. >> Yes. Tab 9 is a resolution of the city council of the city of Homestead, Florida, approving the ranking of the evaluation committee of proposers to RFP 202609 recycling services authorizing the city
manager to negotiate and enter into an agreement with the top rank firm Waste Management Inc. Florida. Such agreement shall be subject to approval as to form and legal sufficiency by the city attorney, providing for implementation and providing for an effective date. >> Thank you. Do we have a motion on this
item? Moved by Vice Mayor Bailey, second by Councilman Fletcher. There any questions or comments on this item regarding recycling services? Seeing none, I'll ask for a roll call vote. >> Councilwoman Ksky, >> yes. >> Councilman Roth, >> yes.
>> Councilwoman Abula, >> yes. >> Councilman Cannibal, >> Councilman Fletcher, >> yes. >> Vice Mayor Bailey, Mayor Lawler, >> yes. >> The motion carried. >> And tab 10, from the wastewater plant to the power plant. AB 10 is a resolution of the city council of the city of Homestead, Florida, approving an
amendment to the existing purchase power agreement between the city of Homestead and Florida Power and Light Company, providing for an effective date. >> Thank you. Uh do we have a motion on this item? Moved by Councilwoman, seconded by Councilman Cannibal. Any questions or
comments on on this item? Renew a purchase power agreement Florida Power and Light. Seeing none, then I'll ask for a roll call vote. >> Councilman Cannibal. >> Yes. Councilman Fletcher, >> yes. Council >> Mor, Councilwoman Ksky, >> yes.
>> Councilwoman Avula, Vice Mayor Bailey, Mayor Losner, >> yes. >> The motion carries. >> And moving on to tab 11. >> Tab 11 is a resolution of the city council of the city of Homestead, Florida, authorizing and approving the execution of the third amended and restated interlocal agreement between
Miami Day County and the city for the use of the county solid waste management system, providing for implementation, and providing for an effective date. >> Thank you, sir. Do we have a motion on this item? Moved by Councilwoman Avala, second by Councilman Roth. Anything further from council? None up here. So
now I'm hearing things and it's not even 7:30. Okay. So what's all right? So let the record reflect that the second was by Councilman Cannibal on tab 11. And we'll have a roll call vote. >> Councilwoman Avula. >> Yes.
>> Councilman Cannibal. >> Councilman Roth. Yes. >> Councilman Fletcher. >> Yes. >> Councilwoman Ksky. Vice Mayor Bailey. Mayor Losner. Yes. >> The motion carries. >> And uh we've been through 12, 13, 14,
and 15. So that takes us to tab 16. >> Yes. Tab 16 is a resolution of the city council of the city of Homestead, Florida authorizing a first amendment with Tyler Technologies, Inc. for software as service and associated professional services for existing services and including a new recreation
dynamics exempting the procurement from competitive bidding in accordance with section 2-411.12B of the city code authorizing city manager to execute all necessary documents and to approve a price adjustment up to 10% providing for implementation and providing for an effective date. >> Thank you. Do we have a motion on this
item? Moved by the vice mayor. Second by Councilman Fletcher. Any questions or comments with respect to tab 16 from council? Hearing none. Let's have a roll call vote. >> Councilman Ross, >> yes.
>> Councilwoman Aila, >> yes. >> Councilman Fletcher, >> yes. >> Councilman Cannibal, >> Councilwoman Ksky, >> Vice Mayor Bailey, >> yes. >> Mayor Losner, >> yes. The motion carries >> and we've covered tab 17, so
we're moving on. Um, Mr. Manager, what business do you have for us? You put it less close to the end so I don't cut you off. >> Next item, business from city manager.
It's on my cheat sheet. >> Oh, I think we have to have 18, >> right? They have that under. >> Oh >> yeah. >> Okay. >> So go go go ahead. Kick us off.
>> So on April 1st, we have the Miami date county property appraisal coming back to Homestead. We reached out to the office to see if the office can come back and help our residents in anticipation of filing their tax returns to ensure that
people don't make mistakes of not picking up the deductions and the eligible uh tax uh benefits that are entitled to. So the county property appraisal is coming on April 1st at Dickson Community Center with the entire
staff. If you need to file for homestead exemption or age related benefits, you'll be able to do it onsite. You don't have to go to downtown Miami or go online. They will be on staff here at Dickinson Center from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00
p.m. that day. >> What was that date? >> April 1st. >> April 1st. Yeah. So, it's going to be approximately two weeks before filing. >> That's no joke. >> So, I think it's something that we want to socialize to all the city residents,
businesses, and anyone that owns property in the city. This is an opportunity to come back, cross all your tees, dot your eyes, make sure you are not leaving any money on the table. It's going to be if you want us to schedule you at a specific time, please also let
us know before that date. I want to use this opportunity to also thank uh Mr. Alina Hudachak and uh Councilman Shan Fletcher for the support they have provided in crafting a plan for the city's local activation at the
World Cup. That's all I have. Thanks. >> Thank you, Mr. Manager. Mr. Attorney, do we need to call for any executive sessions? >> I have nothing this evening, Mr. Mayor. >> Thank you, Councilman Fletcher. Nothing additional. Happy uh ides of
March and uh look forward to uh next council business. Thank you. >> Great. Thank you, Councilwoman Ksky. >> Okay. It's early. If you change your mind, we can come back. Councilman Roth.
Very good. Steamrolling to 7:30. Council Cannibal. Very good. Okay. Councilwoman Avala. >> Thank you, Mayor. There's an item under tab 18 for uh smoke. >> So, let's have the attorney go ahead and read that in.
>> Smokefree parks. Thank you. >> Tab 18, an ordinance of the city of Homestead, Florida. First reading of an ordinance to the city of Homestead, Florida, amending the city of Homestead Code of Ordinances by creating article six, smokefree parks of chapter 20, parks and recreation to prohibit smoking
and vaping in city parks subject to applicable state law limitations, providing for related definitions, prohibition, signage and enforcement, providing for cotification, writing for conflict, severability, and providing for an effective date. This is first reading. >> Thank you. So, I was surprised to find
out that our code didn't have anything specific for this. I appreciate the city manager bringing uh the request to our attention from um the organization is it the health department. Um so, this basically codifies our current um
administrative uh approach which is with the signage etc. And uh but it does also set in place a um s fines that could be issued for those who are not compliant. But um interestingly cigars are okay
apparently under the law. So you know Dominoes and cigars are okay in the park unfortunately. But no vaping, no cigarettes, no other stuff >> as it should be. >> Yes. Thank you. >> Thank you. All right. Any questions or comments? Yes, Vice Mayor Bailey,
>> just one comment. Definitely obviously agree with this. Um, but I've had a few concerns brought up the last couple months, especially in front of the PAL. Once in a blue moon, I'm walking through Lner Park and I'll smell something. But specifically in front of the PAL, a
couple of the families with the afterchool program, there's a group that has been hanging out in the smaller playground um often. So, if we can please make sure that we have units there doing regular
stops, that would be great. >> We'll do. >> Mayor, if I may add, if I can also just get some clarification, will this resolution give the staff the ability to um redo and create fresh signage so that it's large and noticeable and in more
places than we currently have. >> That's correct. Real quick, I thought I heard James say article six and it says article seven. >> Just for the record.
>> Yes, you're correct. I misspoke. >> Just so there's a so it's clear on the record it's it's article six, not article 7. >> Six allows it. >> Six allows it. Seven doesn't. >> Creating article six. >> But we're creating article seven, right?
>> Creating article seven. There you go. Thank you. >> Right. And yeah, just to to the council woman's point about signage, you know, as we begin to implement our brown branding and new consistent signage throughout our system, that would be a
really good opportunity to prominently display smokefree park, what whatever the language needs to be, at an entrance, incorporated into our new style signage. Okay. So, would you like to move that, council woman?
Moved by Councilwoman Ava, seconded by Vice Mayor Bailey, by Councilman Fletcher. >> Just a quick question. You know, many of our parks have multiple entrances, so this could become quite extensive and expensive. Uh, you know, Harrisfield,
uh, JD Red, multiple entrances. >> It's all about placement. >> Yeah. >> Okay. Just Yeah. Keep that in mind. >> Thanks. >> Okay. So, we have a motion and a second. >> Let's have a roll call. Councilwoman Ksky, yes. >> Councilman Cannibal,
>> Counciloman Roth, Councilman Fletcher, yes. >> Councilwoman Abula, yes. >> Vice Mayor Bailey, Mayor Losner, >> yes. >> The motion carried. >> Thank you. Um, Mr. White, tab 19, please. >> Yes. Tab 19 is a resolution of the city council of the city of Homestead,
Florida, establishing a senior prom for senior residents. Oh, I'm sorry, reading the wrong. The substitution is a resolution of the city council of the city of Homestead Florida co-sponsoring a senior prom with the office of Miami Day County Commissioner District 9 McGee
for the benefit of senior residents of the city of Homestead and Miami Day County providing for coordination of the event authorizing the use of funds from the other events account within the special events budget providing for implementation and providing for an effective date.
>> Thank you uh councilwoman. >> Thank you mayor. So, in your packet, you have the original um estimate of what we were trying to um work with as trying to make a very affordable um senior prom event to be held at our
FICO Williams Center. And uh thankfully and through a turn of events, I was able to engage with Commissioner McGee's office and they were um very welcome to join forces and host their annual senior
prom event in lie of us hosting an independent one at our FICO William Center. So, this would um create an opportunity for us to collaborate and have a much larger um uh reach and um
impact to senior citizens and to promote welcoming in the community and fellowship with an investment of $10,000 towards the event. And the event will be slated for July, I'm sorry, June 12th
at uh FICO Williams as I've mentioned and I appreciate the support. >> Thank you. >> And this is through a collaboration as well with Jennifer, Vice Mayor Jennifer Bailey. And uh this would be the city's event, not our event, but we would
obviously be very strong in helping with the planning and execution to make sure that it goes well. >> Very good. Thank you. questions or comments from council on on the item. Vice Mayor, >> just a clarification on the budget and the funding. I know that it came up a little bit during um during the
briefings is it's up to $10,000 and even though obviously Vice Chair McGee events are 60,000 plus um I think the main idea for us having a little bit of a budget set aside is just to make sure that some
pieces that that we might feel stronger about um are being able to to be visualized. Right? if if we require the trolleys to help us pick up some of our um seniors in the area, if we have
specifics on how the look is. Um having hosted the MLK breakfast there. So, just to to clarify, this isn't $10,000 going to the county. It's more for obviously Councilwoman Avula, Miss Mallerie from the Southwest Advisory Committee has
been helping her as well. So, thank you for taking that piece on. It's it's a piece that that I have wanted to see for a long time. So, um, thank you for that. And just a little clarification on the budget piece. >> Okay. Thank you. >> And vice mayor in in that regard. So, if
obviously the county has much larger budget ability than we do. So, this was originally envisioned as a city project at $20,000 and now it's 70 up to 70 potentially.
So, is that additional funding from the county to pay vendors more? Is it to accommodate more folks? Any thoughts on on where the additional expenditures would would come in?
>> As far as the county is concerned, I have not ever seen any of their breakdowns of budgets. I know that they have hosted it in larger spaces. Uh we obviously will be helping many more people than we initially thought we we
could. >> Um until we see a breakdown in the budget, I I wouldn't have an answer for that. And I think this is also a good opportunity to partner with them this year. They've done these things before and it'll be a learning opportunity for
us that we can continue it on years going forward. >> Teach you how to do it and just take their money later. >> That's the goal. That's right. That's no and and I guess Mr. Mander, we would be privy to the budgets and the vendors was all said and done
>> from the county side. >> From the county side, >> we can ask. >> So, I think there will be a joint planning effort between the city and the district 9 office. So, we will extend assistance as needed. >> Yeah. >> And if there are any type of uh procurement issues or stuff, we'll
assist them as needed. >> Exactly. We talked earlier about the safeguards that our procurement department brings to the uh to the table. So I don't think we had a motion in a second yet. >> Okay. I'm sure she thanks you. Councilwoman thanks you. So we have a
motion to say. Is there anything further from council? Any further from staff we need to know. >> Okay. So let's have a roll call vote on tab 19. >> Councilman Roth. Yes. >> Councilwoman Appula. Yes. >> Councilman Fletcher. >> Yes. >> Councilwoman Ksky. Yes. >> Councilman Canal. Vice Mayor Bailey.
Yes. >> Mayor Losner. >> Yes. >> The motion carries. >> And Mr. White, if you could read tab 22 into the record. 20 into the record, please. >> Yes. Tab 20. This is a resolution of the city council of the city of Homestead,
Florida sponsoring a Haitian Heritage Celebration in recognition of Haitian Heritage Month, providing for coordination of the event, authorizing the use of funds from the other events account within the special events budget. if sponsorship funding is unavailable or insufficient, providing
for implementation and providing for an effective date. >> Thank you, Vice Mayor Bailey. >> Thank you, Mayor. This will be the third year where the city's collaborated with the umbrella piece of the Haitian um pastors
association. Uh the reason for partnering with the Haitian Pastors Association is just because of their further reach into the community. Um, you see a great great representation in the back there. We have community partners, we have local business owners,
we have assistant principles and a pastor. Um, but it is from all different um all different walks of the Haitian culture that we enjoy here in Homestead. Putting this together, it is meant to be something incredibly inclusive and open
to the community. It is celebrating Flag Day as you heard Pastor Demosen talk about earlier today during um public comments and I just wanted to clarify the ask was not for 15,000. It was for 10,000. The 15,000 was just to show what
previous budgets had been. So, I had asked during budget season if this is one of the events that we could include in as a budget line item. That wasn't um that wasn't possible at the time. So, it
was moved into the miscellaneous piece. Uh, but as long as we are able to, the Hispanic heritage and the Haitian heritage events I think are incredibly important for our community for everyone to feel included and for us to all learn
something new because the world is big and we need to learn as much about it as uh as possible. So, if you have any questions, I'm sure some of the uh the coordinators in the back are happy to answer them. But that is all I have for now. Thank you.
>> Great. Thank you. I understand there's quite a bit of sponsorship that has already been committed that's enabled the ask to be reduced >> there. Well, the the ask was it was was usually 10,000, but um yeah, there's been 27 different organizations that
have been reached out to. We've had help from the county in previous years. So, we know that that piece is coming in. >> So, we'll in a form of a motion by you to approve tab 20. Second by councilwoman Avala with a comment. >> Yes. Thank you, mayor. I definitely
support this um this item. Um I support it for the the purposes of not only the history lessons that the event brings to the attendees, but the youth sports programming, the economic development, incorporating the different businesses participating, the tourism attraction
piece, and as well the community engagement with the free food and the music. So, thank you for working hard as a committee um on your own time to make these things happen and I appreciate the opportunity. >> Thank you. Okay. So, it's been moved and seconded. Any further question or
comment on this item? If none, let's have a roll call vote on tab 20. >> Councilwoman Abula, >> yes. >> Councilman Raw, >> yes. >> Council Councilman Canal, >> yes. >> Councilman Fletcher, >> yes. >> Councilwoman Ksky, >> Vice Mayor Bailey, >> yes. >> Mayor Lawson, >> yes.
>> The motion carries. >> And Vice Mayor, the next item is yours as well. >> Thank you. Thank you, Mayor. So March is Women's History Month and we have
numerous amazing female staff members. It was a little too hard to do something for everyone. So there is a very small token of appreciation on the desk in front plus a little plaque with a quote and something sweet uh to remind you how
important it is and how much of an impact you are making for future leaders. Um the quote goes right women may we great women may we raise them may we be them.
So, thank you all very much. Alice in Wonderland is one of my favorite things ever. And there's a part where she leaves Wonderland and comes back years later and the Mad Hatter tells her, "You've changed. You used to be much muchier." So, I hope you ladies continue to be as
much as possible and um continue doing amazing things and it's an honor to work with you all. >> Thank you. >> Thank you, mayor. >> Congratulations to to all and you know certainly to all of the women throughout
our our city in the police department out in the parks and and seem to be majority procurement as well this evening they all make the machine run well. Thank you. Okay, so my first
item tab 21 if you'll read that Mr. White please. >> Yes. Tab 21 is a resolution of the city council of the city of Homestead, Florida proclaiming the month of April as National Autism Acceptance Month and April 2nd as World Autism Awareness Day, supporting Miami Day County Commissioner
Raquel Regado's initiative encouraging municipalities across Miami Day County to fly the autism acceptance flag, directing the city manager to fly the autism acceptance flag beginning in April 2nd, 2026 and throughout the month of April, providing for implementation and providing for an effective date.
Thank you, Mr. White. And as we all I think know that this is a a cause that's near and dear to Commissioner Reggo's heart, affects many families and many of us or those that we know. Yes. Moved by Councilman Cannibal, second by Councilwoman. Appreciate the support.
Councilman Fletcher. >> Yes. Thank you. And uh one thing I'd like to offer uh as we look forward to to doing this one uh let's look at the other months uh for breast cancer awareness, prostate awareness, you know, the other significant events that affect all of us. I think we could be doing a a
different flag every month to help support our community, but you know, let's let's look at expanding this program overall. >> And certainly, you know, we've done the pink lighting on city hall for >> Yes, Councilwoman. >> Thank you, Mayor. I was going to add that this month also is um month of the
military child and in the past I've requested for the >> is that April or March? >> April. >> Okay. >> Um for uh for the police department to be lit up in purple as well as the city hall if possible and I know that there's been an issue with our lighting. >> Right. But if there's an ability to
light up city hall and the police department, please do for months of the military child. Thank you. >> Okay. About that, Mr. Manager. >> Do we have a flag? >> Is there a flag? Not that I'm aware of, but just to light it up in purple >> at least the PD in this building if if possible.
>> So, do you want to amend this motion the razor to reflect city hall as well as you amend it to to include that? Yes. Okay. >> So, the the maker and the uh the second have accepted that certainly. So, if you
could do that, Mr. White, and uh we'll have a roll call vote. >> Councilwoman Ksky. Yes. >> Councilman Fletcher. >> Yes. >> Counciloman Rob. Yes. >> Councilman Cannibal. >> Councilwoman Abulu. >> Vice Mayor Bailey. >> Yes. >> Mayor Lawson. >> Yes.
>> The motion carries. >> Thank you all. And uh we can get that flag bought of sufficient size and get it up there on April 2nd. The autism flag. Okay. My next item is filling a recent appointment, not the ongoing city
resident appointment, recent vacancy to the police pension board uh by retired police captain Thomas me. If there any objections to to that appointment of retired captain me. Second, uh
naming Vice Mayor Bailey as the council liaison to the education committee. And I'm sure you're going to bring forward some ideas about how to re reconfigure that and we'll make some appointments and uh I know councilomano we were
supposed to do this at the end of the meeting last month and it got rather late and I think we all lost sight of the fact that you had and I had you had request and I had promised as during the course of the meeting that under my business you would be appointed as the South Chamber liaison.
>> Yeah, there you go. So So, uh, I know you all will do us proud. So, if there are, no, we could have just a a motion and a second for for those three items. >> All in favor?
>> Thank you all. That is all I have. Um, wow. All in in in good time this evening. Thank you all. It's been a been a very productive evening. >> Thank you. >> Appreciate all of you.
We have a motion to adjurnn. Moved and seconded. All in favor? Any opposed? Thank you all. Meeting adjourned. Oenta. >> 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 specialevents@homesteadfl.gov. I'm always looking for creative ways to
save money. But one place I know I never have to worry about is with my HPS energy bill. Homestead Public Service offers some of the lowest rates in all of Florida. We pay an average of $15 less than those who use FPL.
Now, that's what I call savings. >> 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 Ross, >> here. >> Vice Mayor Bailey >> here. >> Mayor Losner >> here. >> Um, Mr. Manager, are there any additions, deletions, or deferrals for this agenda? >> None, Mr. Mayor.
>> Council, any requests 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, just a 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. >> Brief being 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. 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 the uh the 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 line 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
Sandaro 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 are 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 flag
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 finalized in 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 parks 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%. And 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 and placed 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 the plant, I'm not sure, to pump it wherever you need to go. And that alone is a a multi multi-million dollar project. >> So So that one could stay and you could create a smaller scale further east
perhaps. >> So Mr. Mayor, 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 Hayalia 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 uh 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 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 the master plan.
>> Okay. Any additional questions, council, on the uh >> Good job and move it. >> Second. >> 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. 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 then 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 of the red shirts and your friends are here for. >> Thank you, saying 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 product 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 plan 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
DBW. 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 president there. So we got the list of projects, we reviewed them and all we have to do is send them 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 Kimy 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 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 improvements in terms of the siling 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 are 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 and 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 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.
>> Very good. Any further questions or comments from council? Okay. Hearing none, do we have a motion to approve the uh transportation master plan? Moved by council, 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. >> Thank you very much. I 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. AB seven 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
tab 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 Cypusa Soho program to be implemented at Somerset South Homestead Elementary Charter School, authorizing the city manager and his
designate 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 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, ma'am. >> 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 that? No. Yeah. >> No. >> Okay. >> Okay. Wow. This is 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 Kohia 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 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 skilled 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 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 9th and then the following year 6 7 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
>> 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, seconded 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 um the training, >> those credits apply for them to continue with the studies.
>> Yeah. So, the goal is to get them a scholarship to go and get their police academy and then >> Very good. 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. No. >> 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 countyy'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. Oops. 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 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 Sevic Initiatives LLC for procurement assistance and support services exempting the procurement from competitive bidding in accordance with
section 2-411.12B 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 Flesher. 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 44 L 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 adjust assessment 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. Tab 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 ZNET 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. There was 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. Move by Councilman Fletcher. Quest. 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 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'mma 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. Uh well, good evening, council mayor. Um yeah, so um I mean u 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 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 Path. >> 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 six to age 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. >> Thank you. >> No, thank you. Don't run off. We've got I think a question from Councilwoman Avalo. >> 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. U 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 Nap 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. >> 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? 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 relo 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 Lozner 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 bayores 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 with at least 100 employees down here. Uh and of course we are working based on
council directive. We're working with Richard P. Hall AOS Foundation on the Homestead STEM 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 second. >> Seconded. All in favor? I. Thank you
all. Thanks for coming out. Good night. 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.
>> Get up to date 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 a 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. Homestead, the future lives here.
If you're a Homestead Public Services customer facing a utility crisis, the Homestead Cares program may be able to help. The program offers onetime financial relief of up to $500 to help qualified customers get back on their feet. In this video, we'll show you the
three things you need to do to apply. Number one, to qualify for Homestead Cares, applicants must meet the following criteria. You must be a current HPS electric customer. You must reside within the HPS electric service area. This includes both homestead
residents and non-residents. You must show proof of financial hardship. Must have a pass to balance or disconnection notice. You must demonstrate a feasible plan of payment, meaning the remaining balance must be manageable after applying the maximum
awarded amount. Number two, make sure you've gathered all your required documents. Missing information may delay or disqualify your application. The required documents are your most recent HPS electric bill showing a pass due or disconnection notice, proof of income
including two recent payubs, social security statement or unemployment, a signed and notorized letter describing your financial crisis, a valid governmentissued photo ID, an assigned 2024 federal tax return. Make sure all
documents are legible and uploaded in PDF or JPEG format. Number three, visit homesteadfl.gov/cares. Make sure to read all the information at the bottom of the page. In the how to apply section, you'll find the link to complete and submit the application
online. You'll receive a confirmation email once it's been received. Once your application is submitted, our team will review your document. If any corrections or additional documents are needed, we'll reach out to you directly by email or phone. For questions or help
applying, contact our community development and human services division at cdhsomesteadfl.gov or by calling 3052244408. Thank you for watching and don't forget to share this video with someone who may benefit. Today we celebrate the people who keep
Homestead running with pride, purpose, and heart. >> I serve to protect this community, my community. >> I serve to keep our city clean and beautiful. >> I serve to keep your water safe and clean. >> I serve because I love to help. >> I serve to keep our city clean and fair.
>> We're here to keep the lights on no matter what. I serve to build beauty into every day. >> From permits to parks, patrols to power. Thank you to all of our public servants from the city of Homestead. 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. Ah, cooling off in the pool or relaxing in the hot tub is what the Johnson's
live for. But these leisure moments of bliss became an energy bandit and an expensive one at that. The culprit was running the pump longer than necessary. The Johnson's discovered if they cut their pump time, they cut their expenses, too. In fact, most pool pumps
run much longer than necessary. It's best to ask a pool professional about the proper run time. A recent study in Florida found that people were able to reduce their pumping bills by 60% by decreasing the run time. Purchasing an Energy Star rated twospeed or variable
speed pump can also cut energy use. So, after resetting their timer for a few short cycles over 24 hours and doing the same for their hot tub, they're now enjoying the water without getting soaked. Brought to you by your local municipal electric utility and the
Florida Municipal Power Agency. visit the Homestead. Beautiful. 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 homestead.fl.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 cdhsomesteadfl.gov or by calling 30522448. Thank you, Homestead. The 8th annual Homestead Art in the Park event was a huge success, and it's all thanks to
you. Hundreds came out to Lawner Park to celebrate a magical day of art, creativity, and community. From live art and entertainment to cooking demos, kids activities, and a pop-up gallery, the energy was incredible. We're proud to support local artists, children
entrepreneurs, and families coming together through culture and expression. Stay inspired, Homestead, and don't miss our upcoming events. Follow us on social media or visit homesteadfl.gov/events. It's up to all of us to keep Homestead beautiful. One of the things you can do
is help us stop illegal dumping by reporting it to the city of Homestead's 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 city of Homestead is dedicated to enhancing your quality of life and improving our community's aesthetics.
That's why city manager Zarya and his team have been participating in bi-weekly ridealongs with the interdep departmental quality of life task force. So far, the city has issued 474 citations for illegal dumping and 108 for overgrown lots. These efforts have
also led to four felony arrests and 12 misdemeanors, helping to keep our neighborhood safe, clean, and beautiful. Together, we're making our city a better place for everyone. >> On Saturday, July 12th, the city of
Homestead came together to help families get ready for hurricane season. At Harrisfield Park, the city distributed 1,000 necessity kits to residents packed with essential supplies thanks to the incredible support from our community partners. From early morning, cars lined
up for blocks in a smooth and safe drive-through format that ensured everyone stayed in their vehicles while volunteers loaded kits directly into their trunks. The response was overwhelming. We distributed all supplies, a clear sign of just how much this support was needed. This event was
a huge success. Thank you to our partners, Global Empowerment Mission, and thank you to our partners, FarmShare, as well as our sponsors, United Healthcare and Neighbors for Neighbors. Together, we're ensuring residents are ready for hurricane season. For more tips, visit
homesteadfl.gov/preparedness. It's up to all of us to keep Homestead beautiful. Do your part and get involved with little things like recycling and planting native trees or big things like organizing litter cleanups and helping beautify your neighborhood. Together we
can ensure our quality of life for today and tomorrow. Visit homesteadfl.gov/bul to learn more. >> My name is Chef Alden Chance. I'm from Tropos. Tropy Rose is a fusion of cultures blend together to make one
cuisine. We represent out of many one cuisine. Represent Haiti, Dominican Republic, Jamaica, Cuba, and Puerto Rico. We're the industry's first and only fully cooked Caribbean sushi joint. We have everything ranging from jerk
chicken sushi roll, grio sushi roll, eligib where you have mangu, quesoprito, the spicy chisso, the vodka frittita. 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 at homesteadfl.gov. Want to know what's happening in the greater Homestead area? Visit our official Discover Homestead community
calendar at visit.discoverhomestead.com. From festivals and concerts to workshops and family events, it's all there. And if you're hosting an event, you can add it to the calendar and share it with the entire community. It's easy, it's free,
and it keeps South Dade connected. Discover, connect, experience Homestead. 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. >> 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 and 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 the 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 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. 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.
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 save, 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. Hello, I'm Camila Varcel, the chief public information officer for the city of Homestead and I'm joined today by Chief Mario Nav. Welcome. How are you doing today? >> Very good. Thank you for inviting me. We've been getting a lot of question about the speed zone enforcement program
and so we wanted to sit down and talk a little bit about what this program is about, answer some common questions, and really dive into why the city and the Homestead Police decided to implement this program. So, Chief, why did we uh start the school zone speed enforcement program?
>> Well, it's important to note first that it's not just the city of Homestead that's implemented this. This is something that's gone statewide. This was a this was a a house bill that was passed by the the state house and the senate uh giving the authority because of the dangers associated with uh school
speeds and and people speeding into school zones. So this is something that was implemented to make sure that our kids are safe, our kids are getting to school and leaving school and not have to worry about the dangers of people speeding through those school zones. >> Yes, absolutely. And this is so important. I think the biggest thing is
safety, right? and that is at the center of this and the center of this initiative is making sure that our kids are safe. They're one of our most vulnerable populations and we have to do what we can to protect that. So, how does this program help improve safety in school zones?
>> So, what we've done is uh we've we've installed speed detection cameras. They run with a laser and they're capable of not only taking photos but video of people that are going over the speed limit into schools. Now, it's important to know it's the school speed zone
safety program. Um, and so this is specific to schools during the days and hours that there's kids in school. That's the only time. >> It's not a red light camera. >> It's not a red light camera. It's not just a a speed trap like people think. This is only dedicated for days that
children are in school. It starts 30 minutes before they go into school and 30 minutes after and then the cameras are no longer monitoring. So why that 30 minutes before and the 30 minutes after? What was the reasoning behind that? >> So if you really think about it, it you it's almost uh it's almost obvious that
if you're running the school safety radars um and you're running them during school hours, it wouldn't make sense cuz kids are expected to be in school. >> It's 30 minutes before school where kids are being dropped off. They're coming on their bicycles to school. They're crossing the street. They're getting to
the school. So that's the most imperative time to have these things working is while kids are in transit and in and around the school. And the same goes the same but opposite goes for uh at the end of the school if they for example if they let out at 3 p.m. it's
at 3 p.m. that they leave their classrooms and between 3 and 3:30 is when they're going to be around the school on their bicycles leaving crossing the street getting dropped off getting picked up. Those are those are the most integral moments within the day that we have to run that. And so some
people may ask why the in between times, right? Because this applies for schools whether you're in elementary all the way to high school. Correct. >> Yeah. Because there's no guarantee that kids are always going to be in school. I mean, statistically speaking, most kids are going to be in class, but there's still kids that, you know, uh uh are
going to run late, you know, that kind of thing. So the the we revert back to it's the 15 mph speed zone >> before school obviously during those those times but throughout the day when they're not coming in and out we go back
to and we refer back to the 30 mph speed zone or whatever the posted speed zone is at the time. theory being that while there's kids in school, there's potential for kids to be on or around the school. And so when it's not 15 miles an hour, in the middle of the day,
it goes back to 30 m hour and we're still monitoring and then it goes out to, you know, the the last 30 minutes, which is the the the 15 mph school zone again. But after that happens, the cameras shut off and they're no longer recording. >> I think also it's important to note, right, some schools have different
times. So although we're saying 30 minutes before and 30 minutes after, you have to check on your school's times of when they come in. We know high school goes in a little earlier around 7, gets out at 2:30. Um, some elementary schools start a little later. So, it's really important to note that when we're
talking about the times that the uh cameras are enforced, it is during certain times respective to the school that you are passing. >> Correct. And remember that that House Bill 657 is the is the one that gave us the the the authority to do this. um they are very detailed on what is
required for us to run this program. And so part of what's really required is that before you get monitored by the camera, there'll be a sign, an additional sign, additional to the yellow flashers, additional to the county uh yellow speed limit signs.
There is an additional sign that tells you when you fall within that the hours of that particular school. So no matter how it goes, there's no way you can run through one of those cameras without having seen warning that those cameras are on. >> Okay, that's very important because
signage is really important. We also know this is a new program, right? So residents might not be used to it. So we really, especially when you're passing a school zone, you really need to be alert reading the signs because that's going to really give you all the information that you need and specific to that school and their times. Um, so some
residents may ask, isn't it better to just have police enforcement versus cameras? >> So the there is that argument, but let me give you the advantages of the program and why. Believe it or not, even if you're a violator, uh, the the advantage is in your favor by running
the cameras and not a police officer. So let let's start by if, for example, you are traveling 19 m an hour, which is 4 miles over the 15 mph speed zone. If a police officer stops you, automatically if you're going between 1 and 5 miles
over in a speed zone, that ticket already is $219. >> Wow. >> The red light camera is only $100. That's number one. Number two, the other advantage to the violator is that the officer writing you a ticket, not only
is there a police and and and and you know, resident interaction, but secondly, it's a uniform traffic citation. And what that means is in comparison to the red speed is that this is a civil citation. Now the difference is the uniform traffic citation gets
points on your license. >> Wow. >> So not only is it more expensive, >> it gives you points on your license and those points on your license will eventually go towards your insurance premiums towards the end. Does that make sense? >> Yes, that makes sense. >> If you look at it, the the red speed
cameras are or our school safety speed zone initiative. What it does is it gives you a civil citation, $100. Doesn't matter if you're if you're if you get cited. It doesn't matter if you're going 10 miles over or if you're going 27 miles over or 80 miles over.
It's always the civil citation of $100. >> Okay. Yeah, that I mean that's definitely better. And I think also, you know, it's police resources. We can't be everywhere. Yes. >> All at once, right? >> I I wanted to make sure that I gave the advantages towards the residents first. Now, from a police department point of
view, from a resource point of view, remember that we have a set and finite set of resources. And by resources, I mean police officers to handle handle calls for service, handle emergencies. And by putting police officers on a, you know, a school zone, we're removing them
from the responsibility or from the ability to respond to emergencies for the city. So, it's a force multiplier and it works uh uh exponentially. Um, and can we talk a little bit about the speed limit because I've seen some confusion about it. Some people are like it's a it's where you're saying 11 but
I'm allowed to go 15. So can we talk a little bit about that? >> So remember we talked about the advantages are always in the favor of the resident. So part of the house bill again this is not something we made up. This is something that was done by passed by the the by the state house and senate. The the way the statute reads is
that we can only enforce and actual issue actually issue the violation if the person is going 11 miles not per hour but over the posted speed limit. >> So so the posted speed limit. So right if it's during school zone time when
you're supposed to be going 15 you would receive a citation when you're going >> 26 miles an hour or more. If you are theoretically going 18, if you're going 20, if you're going 22, >> it will not register on the machine. Now, why is that? Why is that an
advantage? Not only are we giving you a safety factor of about 11 miles hour, but on top of that, if it were an officer giving you the ticket, he can write you the ticket for going only three. And again, the price is more than double. >> And you're still speeding, which is right the biggest thing there. There is a speed limit. If you are not abiding by
it, you are still speeding and in violation. uh whether you're going the 11 miles an hour, right? Uh over the speed limit. What about in the middle of the day, right? When the speed limit is 30, >> right? So again, uh the the purpose of this is the safety of the kids, right?
And so we cannot guarantee 100% that every child is in a classroom and they could be on or around the school. So, the idea is uh 15 miles an hour when they're when they're going in and out of school and then we're going to maintain whatever the posted speed is in that
area. We're going to that's the speed limit, but we're going to enforce it. So, that means that if it's 30, you have to be going 11 miles an hour for this camera to register and issue the citation. So, at 41 mph, you will receive the the citation all throughout
the day. Now, that doesn't mean that because there's cameras there that a police officer cannot issue a ticket for going three miles over. >> Yes. Absolutely. Very important. >> I think a lot of the a lot of the questions that we have, you know, a lot of people think, well, this is big brother. There's cameras and, you know,
all of this stuff. The reality is the speed limit is the speed limit. Whether there's a flasher or not, whether there's a warning or not, if you're a driver in the state of Florida, you're responsible for for attending to that speed limit. And uh and this is a way that even though there's a margin of error, the the advantage is on your
side, you're still going to get cited for it. >> Yes. And so let's talk about the back end because I think there may be a lot of concern about, you know, who is reviewing this? Is this just a computer that gets it, you know, says a ticket and then it issues it? Like how does the review process work in?
>> So that was one of the things that was really really important to me. So, we've heard arguments that red light cameras uh in some jurisdictions, they no longer use them. And and same thing with some of the radar uh stuff in different jurisdictions. Remember, every state has their own law. Every state has their own
findings. But one of the things that was very important to me is to make sure that this isn't just a machine issuing a citation um based on, you know, zeros and ones, right? I wanted to make sure that there is a human element, and there is. Uh so the way the the the chronology
of this works is someone is going 21 or 26 miles an hour. They're violating the speed. It passes the 11 mph mark. It gets registered, photographed, and videotaped. Now that goes to the manufacturer. The manufacturer reviews that and they deter they say, "Yes, this
does in fact appear to have been a violation." They send it to the PD. Now, our specially trained traffic unit, and they're all sworn police officers, will now review this video that's already been reviewed, but we review it for our own legal sufficiency. And we will look
at the video, they'll look at the photo, and then they'll determine, and there'll be the human element. In other words, there's human judgment determining that this was in fact a violation. We approve it, and the citation gets issued. >> Okay. Yeah. And also making sure, right, that the times match that that it all
makes sense. So I think that's very important is right it's not just to give out citations it's really to protect the students and protect the community and right having that extra check is making sure that you know that the systems are working correctly >> which is a good point too because I I
you know when we put these we we've done a lot of lives on these and answer questions real time because I like to be accessible to the public and one of the things that a lot of people have said is well I received the ticket on a Saturday or I received the ticket after hours how can that be I can guarantee you that
that did not happen in Homestead and it will not happen in Homestead. And and reason being is we know what the what the uh legislature says. We know what the House bill what the limitations are. And we know that we're only doing it during the speed zone or the school
safety speed limit. >> Yes. The 30 minutes before and the 30 minutes after >> and the 30 minutes after. And then after that, even if the camera registers it, it has to go to the second layer of of approval and eventually ends up on our lap and the PD. We will not approve
anything that doesn't fit within that the the confines of that law. >> That's very important because even if the camera issues the ticket at the wrong time, you still have that human element, the checks and balances to make sure that that it it goes. Um, so are these tickets illegal or
unconstitutional? Cuz I'm sure we'll get some, you know, comments like that as well, right? and I've seen some of the comments and so I think what people are confusing is different technologies right in some jurisdictions they have not approved the the the furtherance of uh for example red light cameras in in some areas but remember that we're we're
talking about every state has different laws and different tolerances right so I think there's a lot of talk about that but the reality is in the state of Florida these are completely legal not only are they legal this was just a uh this was something that was set forth by the state legislature and it passed the
house and it passed the state the uh Senate and this was just as uh recent as July of 2023 was when this thing was passed into law. So it is 100% legal. It was done by the state legislature and uh the idea is that it might not be legal.
I think people are confusing a lot of what's happening in other states >> and other other technologies also. >> Okay, that's very important to know. Um, and I think for us, right, the the the center of this is safety for our students, for schools, uh, right, making
sure at the end of the day, whether you're going one mile or 11 miles over the posted speed limit, you're still speeding and that is a violation. And, you know, PD's is there to enforce the law and that's extremely important. >> I think part of the comical conversations and people say it,
especially people who have children in school are, they love this. In fact, they've said, "Why don't we do this everywhere?" You know, and and they're very happy with it. Uh other other people, maybe people who don't have kids in school are probably saying, "Well, I I don't like the fact that there's no
officer there. It's too easy." Uh some people have said it's, you know, we're doing it for financial gain. There's a you know, where's the money going? I can tell you that, as you know, the state law required that we we warn people and give people a warning period for 30 days. We've been doing it for more than
six months where we've been warning people. We've go to community events. We give them flyers. We explain the program. Uh we ended up doing a longer period than 30. We ended up doing about 60 where we were doing a lot of social media. >> You know that in all of our community events, we were talking to people. Um so
we we we are not in this to make money. In fact, uh what we realize if you look at the statistics of other agencies and other jurisdictions that have adopted this, even in the short amount of time that that it's been in law, uh within 2 years, there's been a more than 90%
reduction in speeding in these school zones. And so, at the end of the day, that is what we're looking for. Yeah. >> Change absolutely change behavior. And I think even was something so interesting that you and I spoke about was that I think in the first few weeks of them being on right in the warning phase. Uh
there was like 3,000 uh citations, right? So this is definitely an issue here in Homestead, it's not >> it it's you know if we got one or two then I you know is this really a need? But when when I saw those numbers and when we spoke about it, I know that was very shocking to me like, wow, that that
is extremely a high number in just a few weeks. >> And what's really alarming is remember that that high number that we saw in just a few weeks is not people going over their speed limit. It's people going 11 miles over the posted speed limit, which means that they are it's
almost like a flagrant disregard for those school zones. M so you know as we've been talking today so much about the comments that we've been been seeing on social media. I know your team at the Homestead Police and the City of Homestead social media. We've been trying to address comments and answer
resident questions. But we actually have some comments today that we pulled from a real social media post to try to address some of the common misconceptions, answer some questions, and ensure we're all on the same page. Right. So, Linda Smith says, "Uh, how
about enforce street laws and provide proper pickup/drop zones. No one wants to sit behind a line of cars in the street who aren't moving because the parents refuse to get off the road." >> Well, I kind of agree with her cuz in my neighborhood, I go through the same thing. But you got to remember that uh
from the police department perspective, there's only so many things we can do as a police department and our focus is on on the public safety aspect of it. Uh a lot of these schools lend themselves uh because of the environmental factors that they sit in, they lend themselves to better in ingress and egress into
these uh into these situations. They have better dropoff points. But other schools are very limited. But uh the moral of the story here is that that's not a lot that's not anything that really the PD can do anything with. That's more the school zone. It's it's where the school sits. It's environmental factors that will affect
that. >> Yeah. the the streets, what's around it, the buildings that already existed before the school came and whatnot. So, and Miami date county public schools, right? The way that things were designed, we're really here or PD is really here for enforcement of speeding,
which is what this is about. >> Um, so we have another comment, Zachary Leno, and I know we kind of Oh, excuse me. Zachi Leno, which we kind of spoke about a little bit, but is this only for school hours or all day? I really dislike the dishonesty in so many
schools. I don't speed, but it's ridiculous to get a speeding ticket on weekends, holidays, or after classes. >> Yeah. So, so remember the 15 mph speed limit only reflects only reflects days that they are in school, right?
>> So, school days, Monday school, Friday, >> right? For the for for regular school, forget about Red Speed for a second. Every street and every avenue in Miami Date County has a speed limit. It all depends on where you are. >> Um so when there's no school around a
school, >> uh the speed limit generally in a residential neighborhood is 30. If it if it's married onto a main street, it's probably 45 miles an hour. That speed limit doesn't change. It only gets adjusted when there's school inside, you know, and and it's in the beginning and
at the end. So, if you're receiving a ticket, you're not receiving a ticket through the school zone safety program because we're not recording during those days. But you can obviously receive a ticket from a uniform police officer um >> for even going one mile for going one
mile over the speed limit. Right. So, so the moral of the story is the speed limit. There is always a speed limit. There's never any time in a 24-h hour period that any particular street does not have a speed limit. And you have to abide by that speed limit whether it's a weekend or a school day
>> and whether there's there's a police officer or not. Right? This is about safety and that's the biggest >> and and that's another question that a lot of people have seen and they say well uh you shouldn't be able to give a ticket because there's no flashing light. Now I want you to understand the the yellow flashing lights on school
zones are not a requirement. That is an enhancement that people do. So the speed limit remains the speed limit and everyone everyone needs to abide by the speed limit. That's why they have the signs. Now the flashing lights are an enhancement really for the purpose of
reminding people, hey there's kids walking here, so slow down. But it's not a requirement to write a ticket. >> Does that make sense? In fact, and I want you to think of it this way. Um if a power line goes down and that thing is not flashing, the speed limit still
exists. >> Yes. So, think of the speed limit flasher as a reminder to slow down because there may be kids in front of you. That's really all it's for. It doesn't dictate whether we are allowed to enforce the law or not. >> Yes. It's just a tool, right? It's a
reminder. It's a way to visually catch somebody's attention, say, "Hey, you're entering a school zone speed limit." But either way, the signs are posted whether the flashers are on or not. And that is very >> important work with for me also cuz sometimes I'm driving and I'm not paying attention and it's when I see the school
the the the the speed uh I'm sorry the flasher that I go oh wait it's a >> look what time it is right and I'll slow down. >> Yes definitely. >> Now another comment that we got from Roger Tilman. He says the tickets are really expensive as well is the point. So we addressed this a little bit but
can we reiterate that for >> because that's important and and so remember uh what what Mr. Tilman is referring to is a uniform traffic citation. If we were if it were a police officer enforcing school zone speeds, um he can write a ticket even if you were
going only 3 miles hour over the speed limit. That goes that puts points on your license. And the citation is $219 just for going 1 to 5 miles over >> where the school zone speed citation is $100 flat.
>> It's just $100. It's a civil citation. It does not go against the points on your license because it doesn't do that. >> Um, and on top of that, we're giving you a an 11 mile per hour uh >> grace >> tolerance. >> Yes.
>> Right. Grace that you have to be going 11 or more to receive the ticket. >> Mhm. So, a comment from Jenny Levor says, "It's beginning March 9th, but I just received a $200 ticket in the mail dated November 15, 2025 at 11:00 a.m.
How does that make any sense?" >> Well, I don't know how it makes any sense. In fact, I would tell you that I can guarantee you it did not happen in the city of Homestead. >> Um, so there would be no civil citation for any more than $100 under our program. Our program hasn't been
registering anything. Our program, if anything, has been sending warnings, and I can I I mean, I can guarantee that it hasn't been outside of the hours, and I can guarantee that it has not been any more than $100 because that's the only thing that we're allowed to do. >> So, is there a way for recipients to
differentiate? Like, when they get the bill, does it say Homestead School Zone Speed and Zone Enforcement Program? Like what does the bill look like? >> Yes, it'll have uh the city of Homestead's uh uh information on it. Okay. >> And it'll have a uh it'll have actually
a telephone number also for you to call and that'll be banned. Um but yeah, you'll definitely have notifica. It'll tell you the intersection what it happened, the date that it happened, the time that it happened. >> Okay. Rachel Hample Murio said, "City of Homestead, thanks. This is great. However, can you please fix the school
zone flashing lights on 328th Street near Walgreens? They are not working correctly. Also, the posted sign stating the school zone times is unreadable." >> Yeah. So part of uh part of the um House Bill 657 and to follow the statute, they
have very specific requirements on how we set up the the warning signs and everything. So first, let's start with the fact that a lot of the school speed limit signs are not or or are not maintained by the city of Homestead. Uh
they're maintained by either, you know, Miami date county, uh the you know, Department of Transportation and and different jurisdictions. So, I can tell you that during the permitting process, in other words, we had to get permits for every single one of these and it was approved by inspectors and they had to make sure that we were consistent with
the state law. So, I can tell you that all of the signs relative to the school speed zone safety initiative are correct because we would not have received a permit for it. So, I know we are there. Now, we did make recommendations to Miami date county and some of the other jurisdictions that that maintain those
signs for them to update their signs and kind of improve the visibility on them, but that's something that's that's a little bit out of our hands. Now, as far as the flashing lights, again, these are things that uh we'd love to see. They're a good reminder for me, too. There's a reminder for, you know, to let everybody know that there's kids walking around,
but it's not a requirement for enforcement as the state sees it. It's an enhancement. It's an additional warning for people to slow down, but it's not required for the for the uh enforcement. >> Yeah. And I think it's important to note because here in Homestead, we have right
roads that are city of Homestead owned versus county roads versus right, we have US1 crossing through the middle of our city, Chrome Avenue, which are major corridors, right? The city of Homestead does not manage the traffic lights within the city, which I think is really important and maybe a common
misconception. So that we don't really uh manage. We of course advise, right? If a traffic light is out, if we see a sign, like you said, when you were doing your inspections, we say, "Hey, this is not readable." And we do provide that feedback. And Rachel, we will provide your feedback as well to make sure that
this problem gets addressed and that the signage is good. But it is out of our hands as far as, you know, when these things get corrected. >> And it is and it is confusing cuz, you know, you're within the city of Homestead. And so you think that the city of Homestead is responsible for every single thing in the city, but that's just it's not how it works. We
are we are a municipality. We are a city within a county and a lot of those those roads are either county roads or state roads >> or we share borders, right? We have our neighbors in Florida City. We have our neighbors in Nanja. So we have a lot of different moving pieces that affect how our roads are monitored, managed, and uh
taken care of as well. >> Exactly. Mhm. So Nicole Ginsburg says, "Some signs say from 7:00 a.m. to 400 p.m. So is it the entire day or only during school zone hours?" >> Yeah. So So that's actually a good question and it's causing some confusion. So remember that the we are
monitoring that all day while there's school. Now we're we're monitoring it for whatever the posted speed limit is at the time. So remember 30 minutes before 15 m an hour during school whatever the posted speed limit is and after school the 30 you know the 15 m hour
>> 50 m an hour again at the end of the day >> right so based on the house bill 657 and the the legal requirements that they described we have to announce that we're running that camera all day which is why you see the difference and we're saying for example from 7 to 4 because school
is out I don't know say at 3:30 so our cameras are running that all day and we're enforcing whatever the posted speed limit is at that time of day while there's kids in school. So, we're running cameras all day. Now, after that, those cameras are no longer on.
They're no longer recording, which means they're no longer uh uh they're not not triggering uh citations. Now, the purpose of the flashing and those those other signs, they're only warning you of when it's a 15 mph speed zone. So those
signs will say from 7:15 to 8:30, but that doesn't mean that there is not the regular speed limit of 30 mph >> that you need to abide by. >> Does that make sense? So again, we're giving more warning than is necessary. We're giving more warnings to make sure
that everything that we do is 100% legally sufficient. >> Yes. And I want to reiterate, right, every school is different. So every school, right, we know middle school, elementary, high school, they all have different times that they go in and out uh of school as well as it's 11 miles
per hour over the posted speed limit at that time. So if you're in that 30 minute range before school starts, it's the 50 m hour. So you'll get a citation when you're going 26, right? and whether in the middle of the day when the flashers are not on, it's 30 m hour,
whatever the posted speed limit is at that time, then you would get a ticket once you're hitting that 41 mph. >> Right. And one of the important things also that you just mentioned and and it it's really important depending on what school sign you're looking at because
every school has a different >> different hours of of uh service or operation. Remember that we in the PD, it triggers it if by by the company, then it goes to their evaluators. Then it goes to our PD and our trained
traffic unit has a list of every school. And we know when they're on vacation, we know when there's a teacher workday. We know when they're not in school or they're not open. And we also know the hours. And that's why I can give you a guarantee that we will not be issuing those citations outside of those hours
or whenever the the you know the school is not in session. >> That's very important. What about let's say summer when summer school is happening that we know it's maybe let's say 8 to 12 every day. >> All of those are adjusted for that >> are adjusted as well. Okay, that's great. >> So Amber William writes until it goes to
the Supreme Court that they have to prove who is driving. You don't have to prove your innocence in a court of law. You're innocent until proven guilty. >> And that's true. We are innocent until proven guilty. That's absolutely true. But and we do have a an appeal process
if you want to contest the citation. Just know that the the it will be on video. There is photographs of it. And uh we obviously have an appeal process and a and a process where you can contest these charges like everything else. >> Yeah. And I think definitely the biggest
part of that is the additional review system that you've put that your team has put in place to ensure that there is that human element reviewing the times checking with the schedule making sure that the video is in accordance with you know the uh rules and specifications that we found
>> and and the calibration because there here's another thing that there's a lot of confusion on. remember that. So, police officers, when we write a citation for speeding, and there's something we call pacing. And what that means is the car is driving. I'm not running radar, but I'm driving next to
the car. And I can judge and determine the person's speed based on the speed that I'm going. And it's a comparison. If we're going the same speed, and my odometer says 58 mph, and it's a 40 mph speed limit, I can say I know for a fact he's going 18 miles an hour because my
car is going 58. Yes. Right. But the part that you contest in that in court is that how can I prove that your car is more accurate than mine. Does that make sense? Yes. >> So we in the police department, we get our vehicles calibrated. I mean, we have a calibration company. We come in, we
put these cars on on on on meters that that basically are designed to calibrate your vehicle to make sure that what your odometer say or your speedometer says is 100% accurate. >> Does that make sense? Yes. >> And so that'll happen with these
machines too. These machines are also calibrated. That is what we have to make sure that we satisfy every legal standard and it's being done uh with this system also. >> Absolutely. That's very interesting and I hope that gives people peace of mind.
Right. We're not just out here launching cameras, right? There is calibration. There's checks and balances behind uh behind the systems. Uh so let's do one more. So, Samuel Pinto Castillo says, "County thieves." What do we want to say to that? >> Is that a question or a comment?
>> A comment. >> So, uh, no, look, so first, we're not we're not the county. Um, again, this is something where a lot of people don't like the idea of the cameras because they can get they can get they can get caught up in a violation very easily,
right? And a lot of people don't like that, but the reality is you're going over the speed limit. You know what I mean? It's against the law and now this is just another mechanism where where we're going to get more people doing so. But the idea that it's thievery and
everything else, number one, we're not the county. Number two, this is something that was pushed by the state legislation. Again, it went through the House. It went through the Senate. It was approved. We're not the only department. There's many other departments, not only within the state, but within the country that are uh that are adopting this technology. And at the
end of the day, it's never fun to receive one of those violations in the mail. It never is. I've gotten one, not for this, but previous ticket, you know, previous uh technologies. And the truth is, you look at it, you're never happy about it. But the truth is, this is not for anything other than the safety of
our kids. >> Absolutely. And we hope this conversation cleared up a lot of questions for you. If you need more information, want to know more about the program, what schools are included in that, you can go to homesteadfl.gov/ /schools safety and we'll include the URL down here below. Um, but the biggest
thing is we want transparency. We want to make sure that residents understand that we are doing our checks and balances, right? checking the legalities of all this and really at the core of this is safety for our children. Uh safety in the school zones 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 Nap 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/schoolsafety.
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. Are you a restaurant, local tourist attraction, or hosting an event? Submit your event at our Discover Homestead
community calendar. You can reach thousands of people in our community for free in the greater Homestead area. Visit.discoverhomestead.com and submit your event today. >> So, what's behind me is our newest art sculpture that's came into the cyber.
The artist took about 10 days or so coming in set getting it all set up. If you came in during that time, you saw him in here with some scaffolding and a scissor lift and just all sorts of stuff going on everywhere. But we are absolutely delighted to have the sculpture here. We think it's a
wonderful complement to all the services and the beautiful library that we have. And we want you to come in, check it out, get a library card, use some of our services, see what we offer. >> This sculpture is part of our art in public places initiative. We also have
the chrome statue, the murals, and the utility box. There's much more to come, so please stay tuned. Uh so to come in and visit us uh we are at 80 West Mallerie Street. So we're right in the same shopping center as the movie
theater and right next to the parking garage. We're also across the street from Homestead uh police department. So we're not you know we're easy to find. And you know you can also visit our website at cybrarium.org org. Um, you can go on, see what all we've got going on, see what time we're open, and then
come in, pick up your pick up your card, and start going. >> Need a permit? We are here to help you and faster than you think. At the City of Homestead's development services department, we offer a new expedited permit service for selected permit types
and you can get approved in just 72 hours. Expedited permits include in electrical safety inspections, temp for test, meter repairs, temp for construction and sub permits. in
plumbing, water heater replacements, cosmetic plumbing fixture upgrades, and toilet replacements. In mechanical, air conditioning unit replacements. Also, tree removals, commercial building painting, fence installations, and
resurfacing of floors or slabs, and we'll be adding more to the expedited list soon. We're committed to making the permitting process simple, efficient, and friendly for both residents and businesses. And the city of Homestead has an exciting new update to enhance how residents, contractors, and
businesses track projects in the development services department with our new Homestead's enterprise permitting and licensing system. Soon you'll be able to apply, upload, pay, and track your project entirely online. Visit
homesteadfl.gov/expedited permit or stop by city hall to get started today. We're open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Got questions? Call us at 305224-450. 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 kwatt hours. That's well below the state average of 127 and FPL's 130. >> At HPS Energy, we're committed to providing reliable power at an affordable price. We know how important
that is to the residents of our community and to the businesses here. And if you live within the city of Homestead, you save even more. This is how HPS Energy supports Homestead's growth by providing safe, reliable, and affordable electric service. Powering
your life, powering our future. Because at HPS, our commitment is personal. You're not just a customer, you're our neighbor. I've been thinking about doing some improvements in my house, but before I start, do I need a permit? Great question. There are quite a few things
you can do without a permit from the city of Homestead. You don't need a permit for crown molding and baseboards, applying epoxy to your garage floor, installing gutters on a residential building, changing kitchen tiles,
replacing interior doors, cosmetic light fixture covers as long as no electrical work is involved, painting your home inside or out, landscape maintenance, planting trees, and adding plastic sheds for storage up to 7 by 7 ft, just to
name a view. >> H, that's good to know. But what about everything else? When do I need a permit? >> Anytime you make improvements that involve safety systems, electrical, plumbing, or structural changes, you'll likely need a permit.
>> Sounds like you need a permit for a lot of things. >> Well, permits help us ensure life safety, energy efficiency, and water conservation. They're in place to prevent problems before they happen. The good news is we recently launched an expedited permit process that allows
small residential permits to be issued in just 2 to 3 days. These include meter repairs, tree removals, air conditioning unit replacements, and fence installations among many others. We also offer a homeowner and small business
concierge service to help you navigate permitting, zoning, and licensing. Visit homesteadfl.gov/conurge /conage to learn more or email dsdass assisted.gov. We usually reply within 2 to three
business days. And if you're ever unsure, just ask us. The city of Homestead's development services department is here to help. Call us at 305224-4500. We're open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and we're here to
help. >> At Homestead Public Services, we're always looking for opportunities to improve our process and provide seamless service. That's why starting September 9th, we're launching an enhanced customer service process for
applications. This update includes same day power and water hookups if your request, payment, and proper documentation are submitted before noon. Plus, with our new document attachment system, submitting your forms have never been easier. We're streamlining the way
you connect with us, ensuring your service setup is faster and more efficient. With summer here, be sure you're prepared for extreme heat. What is extreme heat? It's a period of high heat and humidity with temperatures above 90°
for at least 2 to 3 days posing significant health risks. Among vulnerable groups are older adults, young children, and those with chronic conditions. A few ways that you can beat the heat are keeping cool in air conditioned spaces, avoiding direct
sunlight, reducing outdoor activities, and staying hydrated by reducing your coffee and alcohol intake while drinking plenty of water. For more tips on how you can beat the heat, visit homesteadfl.gov/heat. >> 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 Losner
>> here. >> Um Mr. Manager, are there any additions, deletions, or deferrals for this agenda? >> None. Mr. Mayor, >> Council, any requests 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. just a 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. >> Brief being 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. This is
Nikolai Gage from CES Consultant. >> So that is when CES consultant and of course my name is Kyra 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 day 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 a big red line that goes, you know, north and south, and the Flagler 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 line 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.
Dorado has one in one of their parts that is not that big considering uh what you imagine when you think of a million gallon tank but it is sizable. Yeah. >> Thank you. >> Counciloman,
>> 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 s 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 uh funding. >> Well, let me ask you before you jump ahead that 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 the plant, I'm not sure, to pump it wherever you need to go. And that alone is a a multi multi-million dollar project. >> So So that one could stay and you could
create a smaller scale further east perhaps. >> So Mr. May. 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 uh 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 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 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 then 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 master plan, this one is for a 20-year planning horizon, even though you're supposed to review these every five 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 product 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. 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 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 RIIS uh a platform called RIS that gives them almost hourby hour uh traffic demand um conditions. 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're 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 C 103 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 DBW. 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 u 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. Tallahassee 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. Uh 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 and council go back to the list 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 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 >> 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 your cover, they said no. For maintenance purposes, they
want you to put a bridge so that their boats can easily go in and uh do some kind of uh improvements in terms of desilting 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 are 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 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 our office. >> Yeah.
>> Very good. 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, Ky. >> Thank you very much. Appreciate it. >> All right. If there are no objections,
let's jump to the uh to tab um seven. Mr. Pro, I think you've got a resolution for tab 7. AB seven 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 tab 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 or his designate 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 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, we can. >> All right. I am Laya 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. You want a brief notes? >> 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 Kia 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, council Fletcher. >> Yes. Thank you for the opportunity 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 maybe 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 >> Absolutely. We have all of that. We will then 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 Cannonball, 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 you 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 um training, whatever,
>> those credits apply for them to continue with the studies. >> Yeah. So, the goal is to get them a scholarship to go and get their academy and then >> Very good. All right. Okay. 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. >> Excited. Thank you.
>> Thank you. >> All right. Going back to tab four, Mr. Pearl. Tab four was a resolution of the mayor and city council in 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 countyy'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 2-411.185 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. Cannibal seconds it >> with a quick question please. Mayor. Yes. >> Does it include the stage? >> I would Okay, good. Wanted to make sure >> I 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 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, oh, 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. Oops. 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 council, this is simply for you to place it on the agenda. So, what we can do before the April 22nd meeting, >> actual samples, >> 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 home state Florida approving an addendum to the state of North Carolina NASPO value point master agreement with sepic initiatives LLC for procurement
assistance and support services exempting the procurement from competitive bidding in accordance to section 2-411.12B of the city code authorizing 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. Does 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
Council 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 multifunction devices copiers 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 ment 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. Tab 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 ZNET 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. There was 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 Councilman 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. Move by Council Fletcher. Question. You can move second with a question.
>> Sure. >> All right. our vice mayor seconding with a question and then councilwoman a >> 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 >> it's a mic on the podium mic on >> welcome good evening >> how you doing how you doing do I a PowerPoint or I'm going off the dome.
>> If you said one, you've got one. >> All right, I'm I'm going 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. Uh well, good evening, council mayor. Um yeah, so um I mean u
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 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 in 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 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 that 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. >> So thank you. >> 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. Um, 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 Nap 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 gonna We've had conversations about possibly
extending it to PAL and not so much legacy 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 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, may 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 relo re-establishing 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.
Sakas is the is the restaurant by Loa 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 eliminate 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 bay shores 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 with at least 100 employees down here. Uh and of course we are working based on council directive. We're working with
Richard P. Hall Foundation on the homestead STEM 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 second. >> Seconded. All in favor? I. Thank you all. Thanks for coming out. Good night.
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 cdhsomesteadfl.gov or by calling 305224-4448. 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 at the Simol Theater to light fixture sculptures in the Curium, 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 unlocked 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 installed 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 Aayquabava 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. 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 Witcopon 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. Homestead. Homestead. Beautiful. >> 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. Ah, cooling off in the pool or relaxing in the hot tub is what the Johnson's live for. But these leisure moments of bliss became an energy bandit and an
expensive one at that. The culprit was running the pump longer than necessary. The Johnson's discovered if they cut their pump time, they cut their expenses, too. In fact, most pool pumps run much longer than necessary. It's best to ask a pool professional about
the proper run time. A recent study in Florida found that people were able to reduce their pumping bills by 60% by decreasing the run time. Purchasing an Energy Star rated twospeed or variable speed pump can also cut energy use. So, after resetting their timer for a few
short cycles over 24 hours and doing the same for their hot tub, they're now enjoying the water without getting soaked. Brought to you by your local municipal electric utility and the Florida Municipal Power Agency. >> Hi, I'm Phoebe Ignasho. I'm the co-owner
of Plur. >> 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. If you're looking for a rewarding, hands-on job, come join our team here at the city of Homestead. You won't regret it. >> What we do here is vital. We keep the power on and help restore the infrastructure after natural disasters.
>> It's more than a job. It's an exciting career with real impact. We're hiring experienced professionals in several positions ready to take on big challenges. >> You're just not fixing things. You're building the future of this community. >> We offer full-time positions, great
benefits, health insurance, and a solid retirement plan. Be part of a team working hard to make Homestead shine. >> Apply today and start your rewarding career at Homestead Public Service. Homestead Homester.
Beautiful. Air flow was hardly a strong suit in the Johnson home. And no wonder. Their dirty filter made their system work harder and run less efficiently. And their duct work was an even bigger problem. The leaks in the ducks raised their energy
bill by a whopping 30%. Then there were leaks in their doors and windows, like throwing good money into the wind. But the Johnson's got in the no with their airflow. They change or clean their filter once a month, sealed the leaks in their ducks, the windows, weather
strip the doors, and put solar screens or window film on the southwest and eastern facing windows. They even tilt their horizontal blinds up in the summer to reduce the heat impact from the sun and leave them open in the winter to let the sun and heat in. Now everything at
the Johnson's is tight and all right. Brought to you by your local municipal electric utility and the Florida Municipal Power Agency. The city of Homestead is dedicated to enhancing your quality of life and improving our community's aesthetics.
That's why city manager Zarya and his team have been participating in bi-weekly ridealongs with the interdep departmental quality of life task force. So far, the city has issued 474 citations for illegal dumping and 108
for overgrown lots. These efforts have also led to four felony arrests and 12 misdemeanors, helping to keep our neighborhood safe, clean, and beautiful. Together, we're making our city a better place for everyone.
>> It's up to all of us to keep Homestead beautiful. Do your part and get involved with little things like recycling and planting native trees or big things like organizing litter cleanups and helping beautify your neighborhood. Together, we can ensure our quality of life for today
and tomorrow. Visit homesteadfl.gov/bul to learn more. If you're a Homestead Public Services customer facing a utility crisis, the Homestead Cares program may be able to help. The program offers onetime financial relief of up to
$500 to help qualified customers get back on their feet. In this video, we'll show you the three things you need to do to apply. Number one, to qualify for Homestead Cares, applicants must meet the following criteria. You must be a
current HPS electric customer. You must reside within the HPS electric service area. This includes both Homestead residents and non-residents. You must show proof of financial hardship. Must have a pass due balance or
disconnection notice. You must demonstrate a feasible plan of payment, meaning the remaining balance must be manageable after applying the maximum awarded amount. Number two, make sure you've gathered all your required documents. Missing information may delay
or disqualify your application. The required documents are your most recent HPS electric bill showing a pass due or disconnection notice, proof of income including two recent payubs, social security statement or unemployment,
a signed and notorized letter describing your financial crisis, a valid governmentissued photo ID, an assigned 2024 federal tax return. Make sure all documents are legible and uploaded in PDF or JPEG format. Number three, visit
homestead.fl.gov/cares. Make sure to read all the information at the bottom of the page. In the how to apply section, you'll find the link to complete and submit the application online. You'll receive a confirmation email once it's been received. Once your
application is submitted, our team will review your document. If any corrections or additional documents are needed, we'll reach out to you directly by email or phone. For questions or help applying, contact our community development and human services division
at cdhsomesteadfl.gov or by calling 305224448. Thank you for watching and don't forget to share this video with someone who may benefit. 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 entrylevel roles to leadership positions. Ready to join the team? Head to homesteadfl.gov/job and apply today. It's up to all of us to
keep Homestead beautiful. One of the things you can do is help us stop illegal dumping by reporting it to the city of Homestead's 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, 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 305224-5580. Together, we can keep our community clean for today and tomorrow. I've been thinking about doing some improvements in my house, but before I start, do I need a permit? Great question. There are quite a few things
you can do without a permit from the city of Homestead. You don't need a permit for crown molding and baseboards, applying epoxy to your garage floor, installing gutters on a residential building, changing kitchen tiles,
replacing interior doors, cosmetic light fixture covers as long as no electrical work is involved, painting your home inside or out, landscape maintenance, planting trees, and adding plastic sheds for storage up to 7 by 7 ft, just to
name a few. >> H, that's good to know. But what about everything else? When do I need a permit? >> Anytime you make improvements that involve safety systems, electrical, plumbing, or structural changes, you'll likely need a permit.
>> Sounds like I need a permit for a lot of things. >> Well, permits help us ensure life safety, energy efficiency, and water conservation. They're in place to prevent problems before they happen. The good news is we recently launched an expedited permit process that allows
small residential permits to be issued in just 2 to 3 days. These include meter repairs, tree removals, air conditioning unit replacements, and fence installations among many others. We also offer a homeowner and small business
concierge service to help you navigate permitting, zoning, and licensing. Visit homesteadfl.gov/conurge /conierge to learn more or email dsdass assisted.gov. We usually reply within 2 to three
business days. And if you're ever unsure, just ask us. The city of Homestead's development services department is here to help. Call us at 305224-4500. We're open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and we're here to
help. The GarcAs learned to be energy efficient inside their home, from lighting to laundry and everything in between. But then they started to wonder about how they use water. They found the leak in their toilet by putting a little food coloring in the tank, which showed
up in the bowl within minutes, indicating a leaking flapper valve. This simple fix could save about 200 gall a day or 6,000 gall a month. They use a lowflow shower head and changed their leaking faucet washers. So, what about the outside of their home? Once again,
the GarcAs went to work. Now, they save about 150 gallons of water by not running the hose constantly when they wash the car. The EPA says a typical family uses at least 50% of their water, quenching lawns and plants.
Unfortunately, 60% may be wasted because of evaporation or overwatering. So, the GarcAs use a timer, irrigate in the early morning, and use only the minimal amount of time recommended by the local water authority. They've also planted evergreens to provide year- round shade
for even more efficiency of their conditioned air. Now, the GarcAs are a model of efficiency, mega savers of energy and money, and a credit to their community and to the planet. Brought to you by your local municipal electric utility and the Florida Municipal Power
Agency. for the homestead. Need a permit? We are here to help you and faster than you think. At the City of Homestead's Development Services Department, we offer a new expedited permit service for selected permit types
and you can get approved in just 72 hours. Expedited permits include in electrical safety inspections, temp for test, meter repairs, temp for construction and sub permits. In
plumbing, water heater replacements, cosmetic plumbing fixture upgrades and toilet replacements. In mechanical, air conditioning unit replacements. also tree removals, commercial building painting, fence installations, and
resurfacing of floors or slabs. And we'll be adding more to the expedited list soon. We're committed to making the permitting process simple, efficient, and friendly for both residents and businesses. And the city of Homestead has an exciting new update to enhance how residents, contractors, and
businesses track projects in the development services department with our new Homestead's enterprise permitting and licensing system. Soon, you'll be able to apply, upload, pay, and track your project entirely online. Visit
homesteadfl.gov/expedited permit or stop by city hall to get started today. We're open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Got questions? Call us at 3052244500. 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 is 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 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. This is 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. Today we celebrate the people who keep Homestead running with pride, purpose, and heart. >> I serve to protect this community, my community.
>> I serve to keep our city clean and beautiful. >> I serve to keep your water safe and clean. >> I serve because I love to help. >> I serve to keep our city clean and fair. >> We're here to keep the lights on no matter what. >> I serve to build beauty into every day.
From permits to parks, patrols to power. Thank you to all of our public servants from the city of Homestead. Are you a restaurant, local tourist attraction, or hosting an event? Submit your event at our Discover Homestead community calendar. You can reach
thousands of people in our community for free in the greater Homestead area. Visit.discoverhomestead.com and submit your event today. 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 Homestead, we're building the energy system of the future. One that's stronger, smarter, and ready for what's
next. From undergrounding utilities to replacing aging wooden poles with resilient concrete poles, and upgrading substation infrastructure to increase capacity and keep the lights on for decades to come. We're investing today in Homestead to ensure that we're
prepared for the future. Reliable, affordable, and resilient power. That's our commitment to you. And we're doing it while keeping the rates among the lowest in Florida. According to the Florida Municipal Electric Association, Homestead Public Services has one of the
lowest residential electric rates in the state. Our customers pay just $118 per 1,000 kwatt hours. well below the state average and FPL. In addition to affordability, HPS currently holds a
diamond level reliable public power designation recognizing excellence in reliability, safety, workforce development, and system improvements. Because we're not just powering today, we're preparing for tomorrow. Homestead.
The future lives here. >> My name is Chef Alden Chance. I'm from Choppy Hills. Tropos is a fusion of cultures blend together to make one cuisine. We represent out of many one cuisine. Represent Haiti, Dominican
Republic, Jamaica, Cuba, and Puerto Rico. We're the industry's first and only fully cooked Caribbean sushi joint. We have everything ranging from jerk chicken sushi roll, grio sushi roll, eligreono
where you have mangu, quesoprito, the spicy chisso, the vodka frittita. 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. 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,000 kwatt hours. That's well below
the state average of 127 and FPL's 130. At HP Energy, we're committed to providing reliable power at an affordable price. We know how important that is to the residents of our community and to the businesses here.
And if you live within the city of Homestead, you save even more. This is how HPS Energy supports Homestead's growth by providing safe, reliable, and affordable electric service. Powering your life, powering our future. Because at HPS, our commitment is personal.
You're not just a customer, you're our neighbor. 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 save, 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. 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 bulb's 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. Introducing the energywasting Johnson's. When it comes to heating and cooling, conserving energy was never at the top of the Johnson's to-do list. They set
their AC on 72 all day long, adding up to 8% more to their bill for every degree below 78. They also let their bushes get overgrown around the outside compressor, a device that accounts for more than 40% of the household's energy expense. And all that wasted energy was
costing them a bundle. But today, the Johnson's have learned their lesson, are energy smart, and discovered how to not only save energy, but save money as well. Now, their to-do list includes keeping the compressor clean and debrisf free so nothing blocks or restricts air
flow to the unit, allowing it to work as efficiently as possible, setting the thermostat between 78° and 80°, and installing a more efficient high sear heating and cooling system, including a heat pump. And their new ceiling fans make it feel up to 5° cooler and could
reduce energy use by 10%. With all their saving, the top of their new list includes a fun-filled family vacation. Brought to you by your local municipal electric utility and the Florida Municipal Power Agency. >> The city of Homestead is serving up fun,
fitness, and community spirit with a 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 of
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. 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 marked 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 slash 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 world-class facilities while honoring what makes Homestead unique. That's why it will proudly serve as a 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. But 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 legends. Manu Ginobili, 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 the sport, community, and education. 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 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. And this is where the future lives. >> Stay tuned for upcoming updates at homesteadreionpark.com. Homestead. The future lives here. We're hiring. Join the parks and
recreation team with a part-time position to make a difference in your community. execute exciting events, maintain parks and facilities, and impact our youth. Great for those in need of a flexible schedule or extra income. Apply today at
cityofhomestead.com/job. I'm always looking for creative ways to save money. But one place I know I never have to worry about is with my HPS energy bill. Homestead Public Service offers some of the lowest rates in all of Florida. We
pay an average of $15 less than those who use FPL. Now that's what I call savings. Well, good afternoon everyone and welcome like to welcome you to the city of Homestead council presentation
ceremony for the month of uh March. Again, we welcome you all here. We have a uh fairly short uh agenda, very few presentations this evening, but that is certainly not to diminish the importance
of of either one of those. So, and later this evening, Councilwoman Bailey will recognize some of the women who who work here in city hall and throughout the city. Uh, March is a
month that we also recognize a group of folks who work almost anonymously and aren't high-profile uh in this building, and that's our procurement department. And uh if I could have all of our procurement folks
who are here come up and join me. So these are the folks that we can thank for helping keep, you know, the expenditure of public money on the up and up. And if we need to blame them for taking too long or getting something out, we can we can do that, too. They've
got got broad shoulders. But uh again typically the month of March nationally is national procurement month. So we have prepared a proclamation whereas public procurement professionals professionals key word here
professionals play a crucial role in ensuring that taxpayer dollars are spent responsibly, transparently and in a manner that promotes fairness, efficiency and accountability in government operations. And whereas procurement professionals
are responsible for acquiring the goods, services, and infrastructure nec necessary to support essential public services, including public safety, transportation, public works, and community development. And during times of economic uncertainty, supply chain
disruption. Doesn't that seem like it was a lifetime ago? Supply chain disruption. and rapidly evolving technology. Procurement professionals demonstrate leadership and innovation in identifying solutions that support continuity of government operations while maintaining
fiscal responsibility. And whereas the month of March is recognized nationally as National Procurement Month. It's a time to acknowledge the dedication, professionalism, and expertise of our procurement officials who serve
communities across the nation. The city of Homestead joins in recognizing the invaluable contributions of its own procurement professionals who work diligently to ensure the city obtains the highest value for its residents while maintaining
transparency, ethical conduct, and compliance with applicable laws and res and regulations. Now therefore, I, Steven Lawson, by virtue of the authority vested in me as a mayor of city Homestead, do hereby proclaim March 2026 as National
Procurement Month in Homestead. Please feel free. just just want to say thank you very much to the mayor and council and the manager's office. Um they are we are all very hardworking individuals and we're proud to serve this community. So thank you very much.
But now, if I could have our own chief of police, Mario Knap, and Officer Daniel Cello, join me. Uh, we have a very special presentation this evening in recognition of truly one of our many of Homestead's finest. Chief,
>> thank you, Mayor. Mayor, Council, and City Manager, tonight I have the privilege of recognizing an act that represents the very best of this profession and the very best of your Homestead Police Department. On January 19th of this year, one of your police officers,
Officer Daniel Chella, Cella, sorry, he has an uncle on on another department that I used to work for, and he went by Daniel or or Dominic Chella. So, I don't know what the what the discrepancy is, but Officer Cello responded to what was dispatched as a possible suicide in
progress. Now, if you know anything about police work, you know that you're not always uh confronted with what the call represents, at least or how it's dispatched. In this case, what he was encountered with was not just a call. It was a life literally hanging on a
thread. As he approached, officer Cella observed a young man hanging motionless inside of the residence. He was hanging himself off of a staircase. Without hesitation and looking through the window, and without waiting and without backup, he very unselfishly made
a decision to act. He shattered a front window, crawled through the window of the home, and physically interveneed to save that boy's life. And when I say boy, I say that because I have a a kid that's nearly that age. and watching the video was pretty uh graphic and uh very
heart-wrenching. When he couldn't free the fabric by hand, he improvised and he received a tool. So, if you look at the bodywn camera footage, you can see him trying to hold the young man's body up to release some of the tension from his
neck. I can see how he was looking and he was looking all over the house looking for a solution to be able to cut him down. And what he ended up doing was he ended up finding a nearby table, dragged the table over under him and tried to reposition uh this young man's body in a way to relieve some of the
pressure and relieve some of the airway. And he did that quickly and then quickly ran across and grabbed a butcher's block that had knives and scissors, grabbed the scissor and started to cut him down. The victim had no meaningful signs of
life at the time. Officer Sulla made efforts to maintain an open airway and brought him back slowly. You can see his life slowly coming back to him. On that day when that young man who found himself in what we can only imagine or only categorized as a helpless situation
that caused him to make a decision to end his life, Officer Cella, your Homestead police officer, and his actions caused this young man's life to to to continue. Um, this is not a this is not
routine police work. This is not courage or I'm sorry, this is not routine police work. This was courage. This was decisiveness under pressure. And this was a refusal to stand by when seconds mattered. At your Homestead Police Department, we often talk about
professionalism, compassion, and service above self. But every once in a while, an officer reminds us that or what that truly looks like in real life. And that's what Officer Cella did. He didn't just respond to a call. He changed outcomes of not only a human life, but
an outcome for an entire family. So, on behalf of this city and this department, I want to present you not only with a commendation for your actions and this public recognition, but also the Homestead Police Department's life-saving award. Congratulations. Oh, wait.
Thank you very much. I wasn't prepared for a speech, but uh I want to say thank you to the to the city and the department for giving me a chance to come work for this amazing department and giving me the opportunity to succeed in my life and career. Thank
you again. Appreciate it everybody. truly incredible and and just really inspiring. And I'm sure those scenarios repeat themselves every day almost throughout our city and and this community. And as we sit here cool and comfortable this evening, it's a
reminder that you never know what someone's going the darkness that occurs in in people's lives every day. and we were there to uh to help bring back that light. So that concludes this presentation ceremony. We have some time
before we need to convene the monthly council meeting. So anyone like to come and take some more family photos with the officer or some of the procurement folks, please feel free. Thank you all. I'd like to call the Wednesday, March
18th, 2026 council meeting to order. It is now 6 pm. This evening, we'll have the invocation by Reverend Howard Harden, senior pastor of the First Baptist Church of Homestead, followed by the pledge of allegiance with the Homestead Police Explorers. Could you please rise?
Thank you, Pastor Harden. >> It's on the side there. Let us pray. We thank you, oh God, for who you are. You are almighty in power and perfect and wisdom. And yet your love for us is
just as great. And we thank you because you give to us the freedoms that we enjoy. You bestow upon us the rights that we possess. In your wisdom, you created the governing authorities that are over us so that we might by them
enjoy peace and prosperity in the land. And now, having received all of these things from you, we pray that you give us the grace to govern ourselves. We pray for our mayor and our vice mayor and our council that you would give them
wisdom and discernment in every decision that is made and help them to honor you even in the way those decisions are made. I pray that you would help us as citizens to be more patient and understanding with our elected leaders and not only when we agree with them but
especially when we don't. And finally, God, we pray for all of our first responders. We lift up those who are charged with protecting us, those who are in harm's way, be it at home or abroad. Watch over them, oh Lord. I pray
these things in Christ's name. Amen. >> Thank you. Please forward. left, right, left, left, left, right,
left, left, left, right. Right faith present all. Please join with me. I pledge 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. >> Order of Left face
forward. March. Thank you. Please be seated. >> So, Madam Clerk, could you call the role, please? >> Councilwoman Ksky, >> here. >> Councilman Cannibal >> here. >> Councilwoman Avula, >> here. >> Councilman Roth. Councilman Fletcher, >> here.
>> Vice Mayor Bailey >> here. >> Mayor Lawson >> here. Thank you. We have a quorum. All right. This is the section of the agenda where I will call for public comments from folks first in the audience. Uh first who have have signed up and second
those online uh with respect to any matter if you're here to speak on a land use item, a zoning so to speak. You'll have the opportunity then. But uh any other issue
um we'll open the floor now. Uh the first uh individual who signed up is uh Regginal Joseph. He's still here. Not here yet. Okay. And Miss Miss Hudac, you signed up, but we're going to get to your
presentation in uh in just a moment. All right. Is there anyone online wishing to make a public comment? Okay. So, last chance. Speak now and forever. Hold your peace
public. Yes. Please come to the podium. >> Good evening. Welcome. >> Good evening, Mayor. Good evening honorable mayor Steve Rossner, Vice Mayor Jennifer Elberry, esteemed members of the homestead city
council and distinguished guests. I feel privileged to attend tonight's meeting as a praise of the homesteadian pastor association. This organization unites churches of various denominations and represent a collective congregation of more than
2,000 members in our belove city since 1997. It is both an honor and a profound responsibility to stand before you this evening on behalf of our pastors congregations and board the Haitian-American community to express
our deep appreciation and unwant support for the city of Homestead acknowledgement and celebration of Haitian flag day celebration flag day. Allow me first to extend our heartfelt gratitude to you,
Mayor Rosner, Vice Mayor Benifer uh By and the entire city council for your support for your consistent dedication to inclusivity, cultural recognition and civic unity,
your continual engagement with the Haitian community and your commitment to ensuring that all cultures are represented and respected within city are noble examples of leadership responsive to the diverse fabric of our community. The celebration of Haitian
flag day is not merely an act of cultural commemoration. It is a profound affirmation of freedom, resilience, and unity. The Haitian flag occupies a sacred place in our history. It stands
as a global emblem of liberation symbolizing the enduring triumph of justice and human dignity. It reminds us that Haiti was the first independent black republic in the world born from the struggle against oppression and injustice. The values of body and that
flag freedom, perseverance, and equality resonate deeply with the ideals that define the American spirit and the mission of the city of Homestead. And homestead Asian flag day is more than a remembrance of history. It is a
bridge connecting generations and communities. It allows our children and young people, many of whom were born and here to celebrate their heritage proudly with rec recognizing their essential world within the both the American
narrative. By commemorating this day, our city is not only celebrating Haitian culture, but also affirming his commitment to unity and diversity, civic inclusion, and mutual respect within the
Homestead Haitian Pastor Association. We see this recognition as an opportunity to to strengthen our partnership with the city through faith-based leadership, community service, and shared values. Our organization seeks to contribute
positively to Homestead social, cultural and spiritual growth. We believe that the acknowledgement of Haitian flag day reflects the city forward thinking vision, one that invites every culture to share its story for the advancement
of all. As we prepare for the accommodation flag day celebration, we are eager to continue working collaboratively with the city to ensure that this evening highlights the vibrancy of our community and fosters
greater inter intercultural understanding. We envision a celebration that not only honors our history but also promotes civic engagement, education and fellowship among all homestead residents. In closing, allow
me once again to extend our sincession to you, Mayor Rosner, and to you, Vice Mayor, for all your dedication and for each member of the council for voting and accepting this uh great event to
take place. To the entire homestead city council, we thank you for creating environment where every community feels seen, valued, and empowered to contribute to the collective good of our city. It is through the spirit of collaboration that
Homeset continue to thrive becoming a model of unity, respect, and cultural richness. May God bless each one of you, bless our great city, and bless the ongoing partnership between the city of Homestead and the Asian community,
specifically the Pastor Association. Thank you. Thank you. Right. Is there anyone else in the audience? Is there anyone online? All right. We will now close the public comment section of the agenda.
If there are no objections, I'd like to jump to tab 17 regarding the uh FIFA presentation. Uh Mr. Manager, while Miss Hudach is coming forward, you want to tee this up for us? >> Yes. Uh Mr. Mayor, council, and members
of the public. Um this item is being put together by the city administration in collaboration with Councilman Sean Fletcher. Uh we've done some preliminary homework in terms of local activation of the city of Homestead in collaboration
with the FIFA World Cup 2026 local organizing committee headed by Miss Alina Hud Hudachak. Uh Alina is someone who is very special for those who don't know her. She is the first and only county manager for Miami date county,
female county manager for Miami date county. previously city manager of city of Miami Beach and now leading one of the elite groups that is going to oversee the successful hosting of FIFA World Cup in the local South Florida
area. Uh FIFA World Cup 2026 is going to be hosted in 16 locations across North America, Mexico, United States and Canada. Alina is a leader of all seasons. She come well prepared to lead us in the conversation this evening. Uh
the city intends to roll out a robust local activation uh that will be thrilling and exciting for not just city residents but all the entire south deep Miami date. Uh before we get into the details of what the city intend to roll
out uh I would like Alina Huda to lead us in her presentation. She has a brief, I believe two or three minutes uh video as well as she's going to be speaking as well on the final details. Then I will invite uh Councilman Sean Fletcher with
his opening remarks. Thank you. >> Thank you, Mr. Manager. Welcome to Homestead and welcome to our city hall. >> Thank you. Thank you, Mr. Mayor and honorable council women and and men and Mr. Manager. It's an honor to be here tonight and I want to just um commend you because in my 42 years of public
service, I don't think I've ever been in such a beautiful city hall and council chamber. So, it's an honor and a pleasure to be here. Um and thank you, Mr. Manager, for your kind words. We've been peers and colleagues for many years and again I I'm here in in you know at your invitation and really looking
forward to participating and collaborating and looking for ways that you know we can bring the World Cup to um Homestead and and obviously to the southern part of our county that we all love so much. Uh a little bit about um who we are and what we're charged with.
We are the Miami Host Committee. We operate under the FIFA regulatory umbrella and framework because of the contractual relationship that um was executed um probably four years ago when the World Cup bid was accepted by our
community. That bid was led by Miami date county as a regional government on behalf of the community together with the Miami um visitors and convention bureau and other local and and elected leadership. Um what that means is that the host committee is a private
nonprofit created here locally. Many people think we are FIFA because we are branded under that again regulatory framework. But we are a separate entity. We're actually housed and and have been housed in Coral Gables and Proono space. Everything we do we you know we partner
with the community and with our board members and um where our offices are actually across the street. FIFA the organization um is headquartered the World Cup operations is actually headquartered in Miami in Coral Gables. Originally um
they started with about 400 to 500 employees. They're growing very quickly in preparation for the implementation of the World Cup and right now they have over a thousand employees housed here in South Florida. There are 16 host cities in the North American continent. It is a
brand new business model that FIFA is implementing. Miami is one of 11 host cities in the United States and it is the largest World Cup in the history of the World Cup. As a host city, we are charged with making sure that we are prepared to host the the World Cup and
the seven matches that are happening here. We are responsible for raising all the funds related to the operational requirements. Those operational requirements include everything from um public safety to transportation to fan activations to a fan festival which we
are proud to be able to host in downtown Miami through a partnership with the city of Miami. We have received not only financial support but in kind support from three um government and obviously agencies Miami, Miami Beach and Miami
date county. And through those public relationships um we have been able to establish um the core of what it is that that we have to implement. We're in the process actually and have been together with our partners throughout the country very active in accessing federal funding
which um just today actually the grant award was finalized and we were notified of that grant award to be able to reimburse the public safety agencies that will be supporting the seven matches at the stadium. So all good news for us today. Um we are working with
commercial partners and again we are limited in our commercial partnerships as part of the regulatory framework. FIFA has their traditional partners that many of you know all too well. Companies like Adidas, companies like um um Visa, companies like McDonald's, Home Depot
are the official commercial partners of FIFA. What that means to a local host committee like ourselves is that we are not actually allowed to pursue any partners that are competitors in that industry. So every host committee has a very local market of opportunity for
purposes of private fundraising and we are proud to partner. Our first supporter was Royal Caribbean and we are in the process of actually finalizing several of those types of commercial partnerships. So I tell you all of that as a frame of reference for the operating environment that I'm charged
with operating under. I have a very small staff made up of about 20 people. We're probably one deep in every type of professional category. We have a CFO that doubles as the HR director, the procurement director, the chief administrative officer. We have a chief
operating officer. Many of us are um former public safety um people. We have a retired police chief. We have several public safety professionals on our team um as well as another former city manager. Again, all of us doing all that
we can to make sure that the Miami is prepared to host the World Cup. Seven matches. You will be proud and happy to know that the um match happening in Miami on June 27th, Portugal and Colombia is the single most soughta
ticket in the world. um more soughta than the kickoff um in Mexico or the final in New York. We have another match Brazil and Scotland also probably top five um it's it's probably top 10 right now sought after tickets. So what we
know is that Miami while we're not hosting the opener or the final is a very popular destination and a a place where people want to come to be involved in our matches. The fan festival as I described to you will be 23 days in Bayfront Park. We made a very conscious
decision to kick off our fan festival on the front end of the tournament and have a continuous fan festival. Every city again is operating under different parameters. Some cities have chosen to have dark days and activate during very specific matches. We chose again as an
opportunity not only for our residents but for our visiting public to be able to have as much activation as possible. at the beginning part of the tournament, you have the most viewing opportunities because the matches happen three, four times a day. And so, we want to make sure that we offer our residents and the
visiting public as much opportunity. So, we will be operating our FanFest from June um 13th through July 5th. And following that period, we're working on collaborations such as hopefully what will be the outcome of our conversation tonight, not only with regions and with
cities, but we will be hosting um different viewing opportunities post FanFest to be able to bring the World Cup to different sections of the community. We have as part of uh our mission, not required in our contractual relationship, but as part of our
mission, a very real interest in bringing soccer to communities that don't haven't had the exposure. And we believe very much in the passion for the game in South Florida. And so we're working together with the county commission. Again, the county commission was our most significant funer. And
we're rolling out, we started two weeks ago, and we're rolling out a community clinics program that will roll out to 16 different jurisdictions and areas and districts throughout the county. This Friday, we're doing one at Oakrove Park and um through Commissioner McGee, we're working with the city as well to roll
one out in Homestead. Um and these are clinics, opportunities for the youth to come and participate in a clinic, but also soccer education together with the the day. We bring um services to that day. And so again, something that we're very committed to a legacy program um
that doesn't just speak to infrastructure because infrastructure, you know, you need a commercial partner to be able to do infrastructure improvements, but we wanted very much before the World Cup to be able to bring those types of opportunities to the community. because the logos that you
see in all of your scarves are tied to the intellectual property that FIFA owns. Um, we've tried to be creative in creating a campaign that we will be able to use without the restrictions that the commercial brand has. And so we've created a campaign that we just started
to roll out this weekend that we call one game, one passion. And before I conclude my comments, I'm going to close out hopefully with a one one minute um reel that we just rolled out this weekend to really just highlight for you what we believe is the passion of the
game that exists here in South Florida and the spirit that we hope that you know we can see in the collaborations with cities like Homestead and throughout not only Miami Day County but Broward as well. I will be um actually participating and speaking to Broward
next week and Palm Beach County. Teams will be all over the South Florida region. There's actually a base camp that's going to be headquartered in Tampa. There'll be B base camps in Palm Beach. The team hotels will be in different destinations. So, the World Cup will be all over the state of
Florida. And we're very excited and grateful um to all of you for the opportunity to be here. If we could roll that video and I'm happy to stay for any questions that you may have. Do you feel it? That moment
before everything begins. Before the first whistle, time slows down. Because in that moment, everything else fades away. In Miami, football is not just played,
it's carried from homes we left, from families we missed, and from dreams that brought us here. Every match >> is a way back. >> Every goal is a memory.
And every whistle makes us one. >> It's not just a game. >> It's to remember who we are >> and who we become when we stand together. The truth is the world can feel divided but this game reminds us that we are
one. >> One game, >> one passion. >> Yes. Thank you, Mr. Mayor, and thank you, Miss Hudach, for that presentation. And uh let me start by saying I played soccer or football when I was a youth and and and like the the young man doing
the back flip trying to kick the ball in the goal. I tried that many times. Uh was never quite successful at it, but I tried. Um but uh I enjoyed uh growing up in the soccer world up until about 12 and then I decided golf was a better fit
for me. But uh always a fan. Uh, Brazil is probably my favorite team because I was always a PLE fan. Sorry, that's who I'm going to be voting for. But, uh, uh, some of the ideas that we kind of came up with and I was just doing some, uh, talking around the table
with the assistant city manager and and the city manager. Um, so, Vice Chair McGee with the county commission uh, has reached out to the city to host a youth soccer clinic on May 30th. Uh so we need to try and work with them to try and
emphasize the importance of that and and make that uh come to fruition. And uh also looking at the city of Homestead uh hosting a fan zone experience as part of our July 4th uh celebration. Uh and then
something downtown in the lawn area maybe between uh July 9th through the 19th with a big activation on the last day uh where we can maybe look at closing down Chrome Avenue and and creating a big environment for that uh uh celebration basically. Um this gives
us a regional leadership opportunity with the city uh and it helps us play a leadership role in organizing the entire South Dade uh participation and activities surrounding the the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Uh as Miss Hudac stated, there will be seven matches that will
occur at the Hard Rock Stadium and our goal should be to ensure that our communities are actively engaged in the regional celebration. As part of that celebration, you know, uh we would like to position the city of Homestead as a regional hub for our World Cup fan engagement that includes
neighboring municipalities throughout South Dade. So, not just Homestead, Florida City, but we want to reach all the way up into South Miami uh and create a a great event for for the whole South area. One of the things that I recommend uh
that we do is a letter from the city of Homestead City Manager to the South Dade city managers encouraging the collaboration. Uh request that the mayor also reach out through the uh South A mayor's council to explore a regional initiative.
uh look to uh explore opportunities and partner with the Homestead Miami Speedway as a potential host location for large scale fan activations and uh watch parties uh during the the tournament. Again, we have to look at how we do that
with the overall FIFA sponsorship, but we'll work through those details as we we get closer to it. uh also look to uh engage uh the additional professional sports teams here in South Florida. Uh you know uh
including appearances from team mascots like the Miami Heat, the Miami Dolphins, uh Inter Miami, the Florida Panthers and Miami Marlins. You you kind of engage everybody and get them all included uh during this big event. uh also looking to do an uh entertainment entertainment and media
activation uh during this time. Maybe sponsorship or media partnership with Siri Siri SiriusXM or local DJM dot to help energize our fans here in South. Uh another part that we discussed was
looking at local universities to engage them to support programming, volunteers and cultural activations to include uh University of Miami, Florida International, Miami Day College, St. Thomas Barry, uh, all the all the locals. And ultimately, this is going to be a
tremendous, uh, community impact for South Dade and will capitalize the global attention surrounding the World Cup. And, uh, you know, being with the the recent approval of our soontobe football stadium uh, for uh, Miami FC,
uh, this is just a tremendous kickoff uh, to get us ready for that in the future. And again, these are just all suggestions hoping to look at the council for looking at different funding opportunities that we might be able to do to help make this become a reality for South Date and Homestead because the
future is here. Thank you. >> Thank you, Councilman. Mr. Manager, anything to add? >> Yeah, I think uh if time permits, let me ask the deputy city manager to walk us through a quick high level timeline and some of the exciting opportunities you
want to roll out in in Salade. Thank you, Mr. Mayor. Thank you, Councilwoman Fletcher. Um, at a very high level, I will provide the the game plan, pun on word, game plan, uh, in three prongs. Um, as Councilman Fletcher referenced,
uh, the city has received a request from Vice Chair McGee to facilitate a youth soccer clinic. Um the thought is that we would utilize should council approve it, we would utilize that opportunity as the
official kickoff. Um in speaking with uh Mrs. Hudach um yesterday, uh that would be an official FIFA Miami team event. So they would bring all of the um
a activi activations um from a coordination perspective with the city. we would need to work with uh PH, the sports performance hub. Um they have identified Homestead Regional Park as the ideal location. Um so we would
need to look to them to to get the green light for that activation to take place. Um the second part of the the game plan would look at and this is this this piece uh requires some fine-tuning
having learned about the um stringent uh regulations surrounding FIFA on how we engage the commercial business side. So the initial plan was to look to our restaurants um regionally and engage
them with a partnership. I think we are um at the direction of the manager with consultation from um um Mrs. Hudach and her team. We're going to look at rightsizing that u primarily because we do not the city would not want to be in
a in a situation where we partner with a restaurant and they don't follow the FIFA rules and then there is exposure to the city. Right? So um there is some right sizing that needs to needs to be considered in that regard. So that's
part two. Um on July 4th, we know it's going to be a race to the fourth event. Um we are looking to merge there is a game on July 4th. So we are looking to create a a fan experience as a part of
our July 4th celebration. So we know that the big picture is America 250, the patriotic celebration. However, we intend or the the the the game plan is that we would do a smaller activation that uh persons can experience and watch
the game um should they want to. And then we would round out the the season or or the the the celebration. So from July 9th through 19th, that would constitute the official I I would say
than experience in downtown Homestead. Or as um Councilman Fletcher said, if if the council decides to take a more regional approach, um we could certainly look to um you know, another site
location uh that would facilitate a larger gathering for South Dade. So that is direction that we would look for council to opine on. And then if we decide that LNER Park is the location that we we we gain consensus on on the
World Cup game, yes, it will not be here in um South Florida, but the recommendation would be that we close down uh Chrome. We invite the food trucks and just truly have um an outdoor
watch party where we're celebrating the entire um experience and and the the the journey of the World Cup. Again, for purposes as we've gotten guidance from the uh World Cup M FIFA World Cup Miami team, we will uh stay away from FIFA
references, World Cup references. We will align um our marketing engagement plan with the one game one passion subbrand. Right? So that is that. So following this discussion, if we gain
consensus to continue planning, you will see a shift where we will no longer reference it as FIFA or World Cup. We will go with the uh I think the the manager says 2026 big soccer game uh aka
the one game one uh passion uh marketing model. So that that that is what you will hear and see um if council if council uh gives direction to proceed. So that's at a very high level the plan um and we look forward to any additional
guidance or questions that we may answer. Thank you, Deputy Manager. Council, any initial questions or or comments? Councilwoman, >> thank you, Mayor. This is very exciting. Um, I did have a question for
clarification. The car uh report says June 11th to June to July 19th or are we considering July 9th like? The entire fan than experience will be June 11th because that is the beginning of the big
game big soccer game season uh through July 19th which is the I have to say this one the World Cup game right it's the it's the end so that is why we have captured the entire uh period the downtown or
what we are calling downtown homestead piece of it where the city would activate would be from July 9th through the 19th. Having learned about the uh fan experience that um will happen in Bayfront Park that will run
until July 5th, I think it it's a good complement uh to what the Miami host team is planning. >> Thank you. And um with regards to the budget that we have here, the fan zone
of 30,000, is there an opportunity for us to reach out to the South Date Chamber of Commerce and invite them to participate in um setting up in the fan zone. So the the that's that that uh
that preliminary budget that you have um outlined, Councilwoman, uh does also look to us identifying sponsors. So yes, we would have to we would have to reach out to the anchor employers
um to to make it happen. >> Would there be a restriction on which businesses due to the commercial uh conflict or with the different branding approach? We wouldn't have an issue. >> We we would have we would want to take guidance from um the host committee.
>> So So before Alina steps to the podium, we asked her for a special favor and she agreed yesterday. Once we finalize a plan, run it by each council member, we will run it by her office for legal sufficiency guidance. They do have the
licensing from FIFA. We don't want to expose the city. And of course, with the advice of city attorney's office, we reach out to Alina's office to provide us guidance what is doable, the dos and don'ts, and she graciously accepted to guide us.
>> Yeah. >> And again, thank you. this when we had this discussion, it was before we had actually had the meeting with the folks from the Miami team. Um, again, this is big picture idea, you know, to try and put a a face on Homestead and South Dade uh with the assistance that we can with
the with the team. Thank you. >> Thank you. Do you do you want me to address Yeah. Okay. Um, well, and thank you all for your leadership, which is amazing. I wish I had, you know, 34 of you. Um the the public viewing guidelines are tricky because there are
they're defined by FIFA in different categories. There's public viewing over a certain number of spectators. There's a public viewing below that and then there's commercial when there's a cost associated with attending the the actual viewing. Um the the rights are tied to the two broadcast partners, Fox and
Telmundo. And again that the process requires a licensing fee. Um and I've committed to CD Mr. manager that we would be your partner in that and we would actually perhaps even access the feed on your behalf to keep the cost down. Um but with that comes all of the
restrictions that are associated with the commercial partners. Now that again I I don't see where that would impact your very local businesses and your local um restaurants and certainly I think that you know obviously there's lots of opportunity at a micro local
level to be able to raise the kind of money that you would have to raise to do something like this. >> Thank you. And and the you know those questions are are important to me because um you know I would really like the opportunity to help with spreading the news on the opportunity to try to
offset the cost. It is a it is a large sum of money for us to invest. Um and if there's also ways we can bring in tourism funds. Do we have an account under our tourism committee that we could also use towards this? >> We do have some tourism funding. I think
there's 10,000 in that. And look, I think this the 30,000 number that we're that's just kind of shot in the dark. I think it could be much more than that, you know, depending on on where we want to go with this. Again, this is just an overall big idea. Let's let's figure out what the details need to be, but this
was trying to gain some consensus among each of us so we could move forward for a big event. That's all. And and if we're able to do it, I think it's going to be extremely exciting for the city of Homestead. >> Thank you. I >> I agree. I think um is the LNER park the ideal location that you have in mind or
did you also consider if it's even available this the the racetrack? So we looked at two different things you know for you know initially was uh of course the the event with Chairman McGee the kickoff on May 30th but July 4th being a
big expansion of that to include our neighboring cities and then ultimately it would be to activate downtown but if it's bigger than what we think then we have to look at other venues and I think again we're at the we're at the baby steps portion of this where we're not even crawling yet we're we're right
there but we have we have a little homework to do over the next couple of weeks to get this thing moving. Will this will this be coming back to us for another decision or I think this is it direction to give you guys our >> you give us direction today to move on with the planning stage of this once the
budget and the plan is finalized vetted by the respective stakeholders we will come back to council for approval of the final budget in the interim we'll be looking out reaching out to all the specific stakeholders PH Baptist hospital BJS and the rest for funding
and sponsorship in terms of money and uh there is a reason why we want to concentrate on loss park. We don't know yet how the weather condition is going to be towards that date. So it gives us a two-step approach. You can have an indoor activation in seminal theater as
well as outdoors. So the elderly folks and young kids that need seating areas can stay inside the law inside the seminar theater and the rest can be outdoors. as in the attraction I see. >> Well, overall I think it's a a great
opportunity to shine the light on the city of Homestead and to incorporate the businesses to participate and uh I'd be looking forward to supporting the item. Thank you, >> Councilman Cannibal. >> Yes, this time I will talk. Okay, this
is the biggest party in the world. Okay, it's a privilege having the hosting committee over here and yes, I will be gladly to approve this and you know pleasure fle was my my hometown. That guy was something else and Brazil was my
team when I was a kid. So, I was I'm with you with that. Thank you. >> Thank you, Councilman. Vice Mayor, >> thank you, mayor. Definitely very excited about this. Um, we need to start practicing and talking the talk from
here on out. It is football. It is not soccer. Okay. So, let's get that piece right. Um, but just one little thing to to consider. I I love the idea of Lner Park and being being able to incorporate the seminal theater. Um, I'm sure there will be other opportunities to host
something in larger larger areas, but to be able to activate the downtown and just bring all different cultures together. Um, that's one of the things we're going to talk about a little bit in the Haitian Heritage event is, uh, football is one thing. It's a universal
language. Um, so very excited about that. Um, we talked about it a little before when this first came up as a discussion four years ago. I believe it was AYSO who was looking for some funding and we got creative and tried to help some of the local businesses
decorate minimal minimal effort uh minimal dollars. Um but let's say it's it's two different countries playing that day. Uh we could set up these these local businesses that were interested in hosting somewhat of a watch party obviously with the regular TVs they have
there. Um but to make it fun and to to draw attention to these businesses is also a very big piece. It might be on the smaller scale for us but but a big difference and helping to put them on the map. So something for consideration
and can't wait. But it's a Netherlands that will be uh victorious this time around. >> Thank you. Anyone else? I think they In short, we're we're being asked tonight to give a thumbs up or a thumbs
down to go to, you know, beyond the very first baby step of let's jail these plans, try to put some real numbers to it and >> go forward. >> Oh, do we have a council consist consist
>> consensus to uh >> to allow the manager and his staff to go forward with you putting this together? come back what you need. >> Okay. >> Again, thank you for coming down. It's exciting times for South Florida on
many different levels. >> All right. So, I want to jump now with if there's no objection to go ahead and cover tabs 12, 13, 14, and 15, which deal with our insurance renewals. I believe a representative from Brown and
Brown is here. I don't want to hold uh them up too long tonight for the rest of the agenda. So uh let's let's start with tab 13. Tab uh tab 12. So mayor and council, tab 12 is a resolution to authorize the purchase of
property insurance for cityowned non-power plant properties excluding city hall, the police station and saggrarium. uh thanks to the very excellent work that has been done by Brown and Brown uh we're getting a 3.76%
reduction in the premium. >> Very good. Mr. Mr. White, want to read the resolution, please? >> Yes. Tab 12 is a resolution of the city council of the city of homes of Florida waving competitive bidding bidding requirement for city-owned property insurance contract excluding city hall police stations librarium and power
plant and substations with national fire marine insurance company Lloyds of London Endurance American Specialty Company Evston Insurance Company and Landmark American Insurance Company in accordance with city code section 2-411 subp paragraph E exemptions from competitive bidding
authorizing the transaction and providing for an effective date. Hey, let's go ahead and read 13,4 and 15 and we'll have the global discussion and individual votes. >> Sure. Tab 13 is a resolution of the city. >> Hang on, hang on, James. There is a
substitution for tab 13 that was shared this afternoon. Uh the money's changed. So instead of a 10% reduction, we're getting a 19.6% reduction. Almost twice as much reduction. >> Very good.
>> Right. That's the only minor change. Right. >> But there's no change in the title of the resolution. >> No change in the Yeah. So tab 13, a resolution of the city council of city homes of Florida waving competitive bidding requirement for city-owned property insurance contract for the police station located at 45 northwest
1st Avenue, city hall located at 100 Northeast Civic Court, and the Cyberium located at 8 West Maui Drive through the Arrowhead General Insurance Agency as program manager for Princeton Access and Surplus Lines Insurance Company, General Security Indemnity Company of Arizona,
Steadfast Insurance Company, Transfer Specialty Insurance Company, Accredited Ed Specialty Insurance Company QBE specialty insurance company in accordance with city code section 2-411E exemptions from competitive bidding authorizing transaction providing for an
effective date. Tab 14 is a resolution of city council of city pumps, Florida reading competitive bidding requirement for power plant and substation insurance contract with star surplus lines insurance company and with chub insurance in accordance with city code section 2-411e exemptions from
competitive bidding authorizing transaction providing for an effective date. Finally, tab 15 is a resolution of city council of city homestead Florida waving competitive bidding requirement for terrorism insurance contract with his cox written through Lloyds of London in accordance with city code section 2-411E exemptions from competitive
bidding authorizing transaction and providing for an effective date. >> Thank you, Mr. Manager. Anything to add? We sounds like we did very well this year on premium reductions. >> Excellent. We want to give special
thanks to Bran and Bran. Uh up until late yesterday afternoon, they were still working on these items which made us receive an additional double reduction in the premium for the city hall uh coverage. Initially, it was a 10% reduction in premium. As of this
afternoon, it had gone up to 19.6% reduction in the premium. >> Thank you, Brandon Brown. >> Very good. And uh >> Mayor Brook, can I chime in real quick? >> So going back to tab 13 with the reductions, I have two
different cover sheets. One says it's a decrease of 10%. One says a decrease of 25.7%. You're saying it's 19%. >> I don't know what council man I don't know what uh you have in front of you.
What I have here is originally for top was originally 10%. >> Have that one. >> So this afternoon Brand and Brand came back. Uh you want to speak to that? >> So I I think the confusion is that the total decrease is 25.7,
but the number that you're seeing um Councilman Roth is the 19 is on top of the original 10. So the original was the the original um decrease was about 10%. And then Brown and Brown went back and got an
additional 19 and change. >> That'll be 29. >> I'm getting confused. >> Let's have our insurance lady explain. >> Councilman Roth, do you have there was there was revised information for tab 13 that was handed out.
>> Yeah, we we've got that. It says 25.7 in the revised narrative. >> Hi, good evening everyone. >> Welcome Michelle Wilson with Bren and Brown. >> Um, usually there's an older gentleman up here. So, new face. Um, very good question. So,
the 25.7% is your reduction from last year's premium from 2025. What city manager was saying was we originally came in 10% decrease from 2025
and I'm sorry 10% decrease from 2025 and we came in now with a 25.7% from 2025. The 20% is from the first premium that we originally gave you for 2026.
So for 2026 our original premium was 218,000. So that would have been 218,000 from the 240,000 from last year. Now we're coming in at 178,000.
I'm not sure what summary you guys have in front of you. >> So where's the 19% coming at? What is that? Because he mentioned >> 19% is from the original quote that we provided which was 218%.
218,000. >> I'm sorry. 218,000. >> That was our original quote. >> Okay. So, so we're going to enjoy the 25.7% decrease in premium. >> You got it. >> 19% doesn't mean anything to us anymore. And the original 10% doesn't mean
anything to us anymore. >> Correct. From 2025 to 2026, you're seeing a 25.7% decrease. >> Well, thank you and thank you for the explanation and thank you for working that hard for us. We appreciate that. >> Amen. Yeah, once we got more competitors
into the game, they they definitely stepped up. >> Good. Thank you. >> Absolutely. >> That's all, mayor. >> And of course, thank you. And one caveat and speaking this afternoon to that unnamed older gentleman, we did recognize there is the potential
for an increase on the the cap of our sovereign immunity, which could impact some of our liability in the future. We'll have to make those decisions later. You got it. >> All right. Thank you. >> So, all right. We have a mo on tab 12.
We have a motion by Vice Mayor Bailey. >> Second by Councilwoman Cannibal. There's nothing further. Let's have a roll call vote on tab 12. >> Councilwoman Avula, >> yes. >> Councilwoman Ksky, >> yes. >> Councilman Ross, >> yes. >> Councilman Fletcher, >> yes. >> Councilman Cannibal,
>> yes. >> Vice Mayor Bailey, >> yes. >> Mayor Losner, >> yes. >> The motion carries. So, I need a motion to approve tab 13 for the purchase of that coverage. Moved by Councilman Roth, second, >> second by Councilman Cannibal. Let's have a roll call. >> Councilwoman Ksky, >> yes.
>> Councilman Cannibal, >> yes. >> Councilwoman Avula, >> yes. >> Councilman Roth, yes. >> Councilman Fletcher, >> yes. >> Vice Mayor Bailey, >> yes. >> Mayor Losner, >> yes. >> The motion carries. >> And can I have a motion for tab 14? Moved by Councilman Roth. >> Second by Vice Mayor Bailey. Roll call,
Madam Clerk. >> Councilman Roth. Councilwoman Ksky, >> yes. >> Councilwoman Avula, Councilman Fletcher, yes. >> Councilman Cannibal, Vice Mayor Bailey, Mayor Lawner, >> yes. >> The motion carries. >> And finally, tab 15. Moved by Councilman Roth.
>> Second by Councilman Cannibal. So, roll call, please. Madam clerk, >> Councilwoman Councilwoman Abula, >> Councilman Fletcher, >> yes. >> Councilwoman Ksky, >> yes. >> Councilman Cannibal, >> Councilman Roth, Vice Mayor Bailey, >> yes. >> Mayor Losner,
>> yes. The motion carries. >> Thank you for coming out tonight. Appreciate Glad we were able to uh get you out of here in a reasonable amount of time. Okay, we will go back to agenda item four, which are additions, deletions, or deferrals. Mr. Manager, do
you have any? >> Uh, Mr. Mayor and Council, there's only one substitution. I believe is for tab number 19 for the senior prom. I think it's been distributed already. I believe it's been inserted into our our agenda
packet. It was mine earlier. Um Mr. White, last month we had deferred the potential accessory dwelling use ordinance until tonight. It seems that there's no reason to to deal with that based on legislative action at this
point. Can we defer it indefinitely until such time as we feel it needs to to be readressed? You could certainly but but you're correct in that the pending legislation that was being discussed in Tallahassee
>> did not go forward. >> Did not go forward. >> Right. >> So, >> but it could next session. >> Could next session. So, we could just keep the the ordinance in obeyance and until such time as you all direct otherwise we can bring it forward. >> So, do we need to take any formal action
tonight? I think you can just defer it, not to a date certain, and we can just revertise it. >> All right. Moved by Councilwoman Avala, second by Councilman Fletcher. All in favor? >> Any opposed? All right. That takes us
then to Thank you, Mr. White. That takes us to the consent agenda. Tabs 1, A, B, and C. Do I have a motion to approve the consent agenda? It's been moved. Have a second. Any questions or comments? All
in favor? That takes us to tab six. M. Item six, Mr. White. >> Yes. Tab six is a resolution of the city council of the city of Homestead, Florida adopting and authorizing the submission of amended 2020 2021 annual
action plan United States Department of Housing and Urban Development for approval reallocating CDBGCV funds. No, tab six. Item six, the the legislative >> tab two. >> Sorry.
It's the second reading of an ordinance to the city of Homes, Florida, amending the city code of ordinances by amending chapter 16, local business taxes and business regulations, article 2, local business tax receipts, section 1640, schedule of local business taxes by adopting the North American industry classification system manual to replace
the standard industrial classification system as a standard by which all business occupations and professions subject to a local business tax shall be classified, repealing and replacing related provisions to reflect the adoption of the NI ICS manual providing for serverability inclusion in the code
conflicts and providing for an effective date. This is second and final reading. >> Thank you. A second reading. Any questions or comments from council? Is there anyone wishing to speak on this item? Is there anyone online? All right. I will close the public hearing and ask for a motion to approve
on second reading. Moved by Cannibal. Second by >> Fletcher. Councilman Fletcher. Roll call, please. Madam clerk. Councilwoman Abula, Councilwoman Ksky, Councilman Roth, >> Councilman Fletcher, >> yes. >> Councilman Cannibal,
>> yes. >> Vice Mayor Bailey, >> yes. Mayor Losner, >> yes. >> The motion carries. >> We on to tab three. Second reading. Tab three is a second reading of an ordinance of the city of homes of Florida amending the city code of ordinances by amending chapter 30 zoning article 4 supplemental district regulations division one generally to
create section 30-4052 entitled frontage definition for addressing purposes establishing standards for determining official property addressing for interior lots corner lots vacant parcels commercial and mixeduse properties and double frontage lots providing for severability inclusion in the code
conflicts and providing for an effective date this is second and final reading >> thank you Mr. Right. Are there any questions or comments from council on this item? So, let me open the floor for public comment. Okay. I'll close the public hearing. Ask
for a motion to approve. Moved by Councilman Roth. Second by Councilwoman Avala. Roll call, please, Madam Clerk. On tab three. Councilman Fletcher. >> Councilwoman Ksky. >> Councilwoman Avula. >> Yes. >> Councilman Cannibal. Councilman Ross.
Vice Mayor Bailey. >> Yes. Mayor Lawson. >> Yes. >> The motion carries. >> Moving on to tab four. >> Yes. Tab four is a second reading of an ordinance to the city of Homestead, Florida amending the budget for the storm water utility fund for the fiscal year beginning October 1, 2025 and ending September 30th, 2026 by
increasing the total budgeted revenues and expenditures by 2 million providing for servability providing for defective date. This is second and final reading. >> Any objection to waving the staff report? Didn't think so. Do we have a motion to approve tab four? Moved by Councilman Fletcher, second by
Councilman Cannibal. And I already had reasonable opportunity to be heard, so we don't need to open the public hearing. We did that at the front of the meeting. So, let's have a roll call. >> Councilman Roth, >> yes. >> Councilwoman Ksky, >> yes. >> Councilman Cannibal,
>> Councilwoman Avula, >> yes. >> Councilman Fletcher, >> yes. >> Vice Mayor Bailey, Mayor Osman, >> yes. >> The motion carries. >> Thank you. Tab five. Tab five is a second reading of an ordinance to the city of Homesteader, Florida amending chapter 19 of the city code by creating article 7 entitled squatters by adding
definitions providing for methods of enforcement referencing sections 82.036 and 82.037 Florida statutes and requiring information to be submitted to the city for enforcement against violations providing for inclusion in the code providing for severability providing for conflicts and providing for an effective
date. This is second and final reading. >> Thank you sir. This is moved by Councilman Cannibal. We have a second. No objection to the reading of the staff report. So, let's have a roll call on tab five. >> Councilwoman Ksky, >> yes.
>> Councilwoman Abula, >> Councilman Roth, >> yes. >> Councilman Fletcher, >> yes. >> Councilman Cannibal, >> Vice Mayor Bailey, >> yes. >> Mayor Losner, >> yes. >> The motion carries. >> Thank you. Tab six. AB six is a resolution of city council of the city of Homestead Florida
adopting and authorizing submission of amended 20202 annual action plan the United States Department of Housing urban development for approval reallocating CBDG funds providing for implementation providing for an effective date. >> Thank you. Any objection to waving the staff report? Moved by Counciloman
Aavala. I have a second. Second by Councilman Cannibal. Any further question or comments from councel? >> Mr. Mayor. >> Yes. I think there is a minor amendment the administration would like to propose. Um the references in the scope of work that
the eligible funds are to be for replacement of restroom doors at James Archer Smith Park and Witcock Park and other eligible city park restroom facilities. Want to strike the word restrooms and leave it just park
facilities. >> Sorry. the maker of the motion. Second. Okay. Thank you, Mr. Manager. >> I got more more encompassing. >> Yes. >> So, just for clarification, if bathroom doors will be installed before you move
to another park and fix other doors, those restrooms should be painted first. >> That's correct. >> Thank you. >> Very good. Okay. So, we're covered there. Did we have a motion in a second on this? I think we did. Okay. So, let's have a roll call
vote. >> Councilwoman Abula? >> Yes. >> Counciloman Roth? >> Yes. >> Councilwoman Ksky? >> Yes. >> Councilman Cannibal? >> Yes. >> Councilman Fletcher? >> Yes. >> Vice Mayor Bailey? >> Yes. >> Mayor Osnner? >> Yes. >> The motion carries. >> Uh, takes us tab seven. Correct. >> Correct.
>> Okay. >> Tab seven. >> Yeah. >> Tab seven is a resolution of city council of the city of Homestead Florida approving the award of a contract to H&R Paving Inc. and National Traffic Solutions Inc. for ITB number 202602
street resurfacing providing for implementation and providing for an effective date. Thank you. Much needed. Any questions or comments from councel? This one. We have a motion moved by the vice mayor. Second by councilman
cannibal. There's nothing further from council. I'll ask for a roll call vote on tab seven. >> Councilman Fletcher. >> Yes. >> Councilwoman Avulo. >> Yes. Councilman Cannibal. Yes. >> Councilman Roth. Councilwoman Ksky. Yes. >> Vice Mayor Bailey. Yes. Mayor Osma. >> Yes.
>> The motion count. >> And moving on to tab eight. And describe that piece of equipment three times quickly. Tab 8 is a resolution of the city council of the city of Homestead, Florida, approving the award of ITB number 202612,
purchase of sequencing batch reactor decanters or the wastewater treatment facility to Flowy Corp. in the amount of $434,800 providing for implementation and providing for an effective date. >> Thank you. Do we have a motion to approve this item? Moved by Councilman
Fletcher, second by Councilman Cannibal. Any questions or comments from council on item eight? And appearing, I will ask for a roll call vote on tab eight, please. >> Councilwoman Abula, >> yes. >> Councilman Fletcher, >> yes. >> Councilman Roth, yes. >> Councilwoman Ksky,
>> yes. >> Councilman Cannibal, >> yes. >> Vice Mayor Bailey, >> Mayor Lawson, >> yes. >> The motion carries. >> Moving on to tab nine regarding recycling services. >> Yes. Tab nine is a resolution of the city council of the city of Homestead, Florida, approving the ranking of the
evaluation committee of proposers to RFP 202609, Recycling Services, authorizing the city manager to negotiate and enter into an agreement with the top rank firm, Waste Management, Inc., Florida. Such agreement shall be subject to approval as to form and legal sufficiency by the
city attorney, providing for implementation and providing for an effective date. >> Thank you. Do we have a motion on this item? Moved by Vice Mayor Bailey, second by Councilman Fletcher. There any questions or comments on this item regarding recycling services?
Seeing none, I'll ask for a roll call vote. >> Councilwoman Ksky, >> yes. >> Councilman Roth, >> yes. >> Councilwoman Abula, >> yes. >> Councilman Cannibal, >> Councilman Fletcher, >> yes. >> Vice Mayor Bailey, Mayor Losner, >> yes. >> The motion carried. >> And tab 10 from the wastewater plant to
the power plant. AB 10 is a resolution of the city council of the city of Homestead, Florida, approving an amendment to the existing purchase power agreement between the city of Homestead and Florida Power and Light Company, providing for an effective date. >> Thank you. Uh do we have a motion on this item? Moved by Councilman Aavala,
seconded by Councilman Cannibal. Any questions or comments on on this item to renew a purchase power agreement Florida Power and Light? Seeing none, then I'll ask for a roll call vote. >> Councilman Caval, >> yes. Councilman Fletcher, >> yes. >> Councilman Ro, yes.
>> Councilwoman Ksky, yes. >> Councilwoman Avula, >> Vice Mayor Bailey, Mayor Losner, >> yes. >> The motion carries. >> And moving on to tab 11. >> Tab 11 is a resolution of the city council of the city of Homestead, Florida, authorizing and approving the execution of the third amended and
restated interlocal agreement between Miami Day County and the city for the use of the county solid waste management system, providing for implementation, and providing for an effective date. >> Thank you, sir. Do we have a motion on this item? Moved by Councilwoman Avala, second by Councilman Roth. Anything
further from council? None up here. So now I'm hearing things and it's not even 7:30. Okay. What's all right? So let the record reflect that the second was by Councilman Cannibal on tab 11 and we'll have a roll call vote.
>> Councilwoman Abula. >> Yes. >> Councilman Cannibal. >> Councilman Roth. Councilman Fletcher. >> Yes. >> Councilwoman Ksky. Vice Mayor Bailey. Mayor Losner. >> Yes. >> The motion carries. >> And uh we've been through 12, 13, 14,
and 15. So that takes us to tab 16. >> Yes. Tab 16 is a resolution of the city council of the city of Homestead, Florida, authorizing a first amendment with Tyler Technologies, Inc. for software as service and associated professional services for existing services and including a new recreation
dynamics exempting the procurement from competitive bidding in accordance with section 2-411.12B of the city code authorizing city manager to execute all necessary documents and to approve a price adjustment up to 10% providing for implementation and providing for an effective date. >> Thank you. Do we have a motion on this
item? Moved by the vice mayor, seconded by Councilman Fletcher. Any questions or comments with respect to tab 16 from council? >> Hearing none. Let's have a roll call vote. >> Councilman Ross, >> yes. >> Councilwoman Ailo,
>> yes. >> Councilman Fletcher, >> yes. >> Councilman Cannibal, >> Councilwoman Ksky, Vice Mayor Bailey, yes. >> Mayor Losner, yes. The motion carries >> and we've covered tab 17, so
we're moving on. Um, Mr. Manager, what business do you have for us? You put it less close to the end so I don't cut you off. >> Next item, business from the city manager. It's on my cheat sheet.
>> Oh, I think we have to have 18, >> right? Jenny, they have that under. >> Oh, >> yeah. >> Okay. >> So, go go go ahead. Kick us off. >> So, on April 1st, we have the Miami date
county property appraisal coming back to Homestead. We reached out to the office to see if the office can come back and help our residents in anticipation of filing their tax returns to ensure that people don't make mistakes of not
picking up the deductions and eligible uh tax uh benefits that are entitled to. So, the county property appraisal is coming on April 1st at Dickson Community Center with the entire staff. If you need to file for homestead exemption or
oh related benefits, you'll be able to do it on site. You don't have to go to downtown Miami or go online. They will be on staff here at Dickinson Center from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. that day. >> What was that date? >> April 1st.
>> April 1st. Yeah. So, it's going to be approximately two weeks before filing >> and that's no joke. >> So, I think it's something that we want to socialize to all the city residents, businesses, and anyone that owns property in the city. This is an
opportunity to come back, cross all your tees, dot your eyes, make sure you are not leaving any money on the table. It's going to be if you want us to schedule you at a specific time, please also let us know before that date. I want to use this opportunity to also
thank uh Mr. Alina Hudak and uh Councilman Sean Fletcher for the support they have provided in crafting a plan for the city's local activation at the World Cup. That's all I have. Thanks. >> Thank you, Mr. Manager. Mr. Attorney, do
we need to call for any executive sessions? >> I have nothing this evening, Mr. Mayor. >> Thank you, Councilman Fletcher. Nothing additional. Happy uh ides of March and uh look forward to uh next
council business. Thank you. >> Good. Thank you, Councilwoman Ksky. >> Okay. It's early. If you change your mind, we can come back. Councilman Roth. Very good. Steamrolling to 7:30.
Councilman Cannibal. >> Very good. Okay. Councilwoman Avala. >> Thank you, Mayor. There's an item under tab 18 for uh smoke. >> So, let's have the attorney go ahead and read that in
>> smokefree parks. Thank you. >> Tab 18, an ordinance of the city of Homestead, Florida. First reading of an ordinance to the city of Homestead, Florida, amending the City of Homestead Code of Ordinances by creating article six smokefree parks of chapter 20 parks and recreation to prohibit smoking and
vaping in city parks subject to applicable state law limitations providing for related definitions prohibition signage and enforcement providing for cotification providing for conflict severability and providing for an effective date. This is first reading. >> Thank you. So, I was surprised to find
out that our code didn't have anything specific for this. I appreciate the city manager bringing uh the request to our attention from um the organization is it the health department. Um so, this basically codifies our current um
administrative uh approach which is with the signage etc. And uh but it does also set in place a um s uh fines that could be issued for those who are not compliant. But um interestingly cigars
are okay apparently under the law. So you know dominoes and cigars are okay in the park unfortunately. But no vaping, no cigarettes, no other stuff >> as it should be. >> Yes. Thank you. >> Thank you. >> All right. Any questions or comments?
Yes. Vice Mayor Raley, >> just one comment. Definitely obviously agree with this. Um, but I've had a few concerns brought up the last couple months, especially in front of the PAL. Once in a blue moon, I'm walking through LNER Park and I'll smell something. But
specifically in front of the PAL, a couple of the families with the afterchool program, there's a group that has been hanging out in the smaller playground um often. So, if we can please make sure that we have units there doing regular
stops, that would be great. >> We'll do. >> Thank you. >> Mayor, if I may add, if I can also just get some clarification, will this resolution give the staff the ability to um redo and create fresh signage so that it's large and noticeable and in more
places than we currently have. >> That's correct. Real quick, I thought I heard James say article six and it says article seven. >> Just for the record.
>> Yes, you're correct. I misspoke. >> Just so there's a So it's clear on the record. It's it's article six, not article 7. >> Six allows it. >> Six allows it. Seven doesn't. >> Creating article six. >> But we're creating article seven, right?
>> Creating article seven. There you go. Thank you. >> Right. And yeah, just to to the councilwoman's point about signage, you know, as we begin to implement our brown branding and new consistent signage throughout our system, that would be a
really good opportunity to prominently display smokefree park, what whatever the language needs to be, add an entrance, incorporate it into our new style signage. Okay. So, would you like to move that council on?
Moved by Councilwoman Ava, seconded by Vice Mayor Bailey, by Councilman Fletcher. >> Just a quick question. You know, many of our parks have multiple entrances, so this could become quite extensive and expensive. Uh, you know, Harrisfield,
uh, JD Red, multiple entrances. >> It's all about placement. >> Yeah. >> Okay. Just Yeah. Keep that in mind. >> Thanks. >> Okay. So, we have a motion and a second. >> Let's have a roll call. Councilwoman Ksky, yes. >> Councilman Cannibal,
>> Counciloman Ross, Councilman Fletcher, yes. >> Councilwoman Abula, yes. >> Vice Mayor Bailey, Mayor Lawson, >> yes. >> The motion carried. >> Thank you. Um, Mr. White, tab 19, please. >> Yes. Tab 19 is a resolution of the city council of the city of Homestead,
Florida, establishing a senior prom for senior residents. Oh, I'm sorry, reading the wrong. The substitution is a resolution of the city council of the city of Homestead Florida co-sponsoring a senior prom with the office of Miami Day County Commissioner District 9 McGee
for the benefit of senior residents of the city of Homestead and Miami Day County providing for coordination of the event authorizing the use of funds from the other events account within the special events budget providing for implementation and providing for an effective date.
>> Thank you uh councilwoman. >> Thank you mayor. So, in your packet, you have the original um estimate of what we were trying to um work with as trying to make a very affordable um senior prom event to be held at our
FICO Williams Center. And uh thankfully and through a turn of events I was able to engage with Commissioner McGee's office and they were um very welcome to join forces and host their annual senior
prom event in lie of us hosting an independent one at our FICO William Center. So, this would um create an opportunity for us to collaborate and have a much larger um uh reach and um
impact to senior citizens and to promote welcoming in the community and fellowship with an investment of $10,000 towards the event. And the event will be slated for July, I'm sorry, June 12th
at uh FICO Williams as I've mentioned. I appreciate the support. >> Thank you. >> And this is through a collaboration as well with Jennifer, Vice Mayor Jennifer Bailey. And uh this would be the city's event, not our event, but we would
obviously be very strong in helping with the planning and execution to make sure that it goes well. >> Good. Thank you. questions or comments from council on on this item? Vice Mayor, >> just a clarification on the budget and the funding. I know that it came up a little bit during um during the
briefings is it's up to $10,000. And even though obviously Vice Chair McGee's events are 60,000 plus, um I think the main idea for us having a little bit of a budget set aside is just to make sure
that some pieces that that we might feel stronger about um are being able to to be visualized, right? if if we require the trolleys to help us pick up some of our um seniors in the area, if we have
specifics on how the look is um having hosted the MLK breakfast there. So, just to to clarify, this isn't $10,000 going to the county. It's more for obviously Councilwoman Avula, Miss Mallerie from the Southwest Advisory Committee has
been helping her as well. So, thank you for taking that piece on. It's it's a piece that that I have wanted to see for a long time. So, um, thank you for that. And just a little clarification on the budget piece. >> Okay. Thank you. >> And vice mayor in in that regard. So, if
obviously the county has much larger budget ability than we do. So, this was originally envisioned as a city project at $20,000 and now it's 70 up to 70 potentially.
So, is that additional funding from the county to pay vendors more? Is it to accommodate more folks? Any thoughts on on where the additional expenditures would would come in?
>> As far as the county is concerned, I have not ever seen any of their breakdowns of budgets. I know that they have hosted it in larger spaces. Uh we obviously will be helping many more people than we initially thought we we
could. >> Um until we see a breakdown in the budget, I I wouldn't have an answer for that. And I think this is also a good opportunity to partner with them this year. They've done these things before and it'll be a learning opportunity for
us that we can continue it on years going forward. >> Teach you how to do it and just take their money later. >> That's that's the goal. That's right. That's no and and I guess Mr. Mander, we would be privy to the budgets and the vendors was all said and done
>> from the county side. >> From the county side, >> we can ask. >> So, I think there will be a joint planning between the city and the district 9 office. So, we will extend assistance as needed. >> Yeah. >> And if there are any type of uh procurement issues or stuff, we'll
assist them as needed. >> So, exactly. We talked earlier about the safeguards that our procurement department brings to the uh to the table. So I don't think we had a motion in a second yet. >> Okay. I'm sure she thanks you. Councilwoman thanks you. So we have a
motion to say. Is there anything further from council? Any further from staff we need to know. >> Okay. So let's have a roll call vote on tab 19. >> Councilman Roth. Yes. >> Councilwoman Appula. Yes. >> Councilman Fletcher. >> Yes. >> Councilwoman Ksky. Councilman Canal.
Vice Mayor Bailey. Yes. Mayor Lawson. >> Yes. >> The motion carries. >> And Mr. White, if you could read tab 22 into the record. 20 into the record, please. >> Yes. Tab 20. This is a resolution of the city council of the city of Homestead,
Florida, sponsoring a Haitian heritage celebration in recognition of Haitian Heritage Month, providing for coordination of the event, authorizing the use of funds from the other events account within the special events budget if sponsorship funding is unavailable or insufficient, providing for
implementation, and providing for an effective date. >> Thank you, Vice Mayor Bailey. >> Thank you, Mayor. This will be the third year where the city's collaborated with the umbrella piece of the Haitian um pastors
association. Uh the reason for partnering with the Haitian Pastors Association is just because of their further reach into the community. Um you see a great great representation in the back there. We have community partners, we have local business owners, we have
assistant principles and a pastor. Um, but it is from all different um all different walks of the Haitian culture that we enjoy here in Homestead putting this together. It is meant to be something incredibly inclusive and open
to the community. It is celebrating Flag Day as you heard Pastor Deosten talk about earlier today during um public comments. And I just wanted to clarify the ask was not for 15,000. It was for 10,000. The 15,000 was just to show what
previous budgets had been. So I had asked during budget season if this is one of the events that we could include in as a budget line item. That wasn't um that wasn't possible at the time. So it
was moved into the miscellaneous piece. Uh, but as long as we are able to, the Hispanic heritage and the Haitian heritage events I think are incredibly important for our community for everyone to feel included and for us to all learn
something new because the world is big and we need to learn as much about it as uh as possible. So, if you have any questions, I'm sure some of the uh the coordinators in the back are happy to answer them. But that is all I have for now. Thank you.
>> Great. Thank you. And I understand there's quite a bit of sponsorship that has already been committed that's enabled the ask to be reduced >> there. Well, the the ask was it was was usually 10,000, but um yeah, there's been 27 different organizations that
have been reached out to. We've had help from the county in previous years. So, we know that that piece is coming in. >> So, we'll assume that this in a form of a motion by you to approve tab 20 seconded by councilwoman Avala with a comment. >> Yes. Thank you, mayor. I definitely
support this um this item. Um I support it for the the purposes of not only the history lessons that the event brings to the attendees, but the youth sports programming, the economic development, incorporating the different businesses participating, the tourism attraction
piece, and as well the community engagement with the free food and the music. So, thank you for working hard as a committee um on your own time to make these things happen and I appreciate the opportunity. >> Thank you. Okay. So, it's been moved and seconded. Any further question or
comment on this item? If none, let's have a roll call vote on tab 20. >> Councilwoman Abula, >> yes. >> Councilman Raw, >> yes. >> Council Councilman Cannibal, >> yes. >> Councilman Fletcher, >> yes. >> Councilwoman Ksky, >> Vice Mayor Bailey, >> yes. >> Mayor Lawson, >> yes.
>> The motion carries. >> And Vice Mayor, the next item is yours as well. >> Thank you. Thank you, Mayor. So March is Women's History Month and we have
numerous amazing female staff members. It was a little too hard to do something for everyone. So there is a very small token of appreciation on the desk in front plus a little plaque with a quote and something sweet uh to remind you how
important it is and how much of an impact you are making for future leaders. Um the quote goes right women may we great women may we raise them may we be them.
So, thank you all very much. Alice in Wonderland is one of my favorite things ever. And there's a part where she leaves Wonderland and comes back years later and the Mad Hatter tells her, "You've changed. You used to be much muchier." So, I hope you ladies continue to be as
much as possible and um continue doing amazing things and it's an honor to work with you all. >> Thank you. >> Thank you, Mayor. Congratulations to to all and you know certainly to all of the
women throughout our our city in the police department out in the parks and and seem to be majority procurement as well this evening. They all make the machine
run well. Thank you. Okay. So my first item tap 21. If you'll read that Mr. White please. Yes. Tab 21 is a resolution of the city council of the city of Homestead, Florida proclaiming the month of April as National Autism Acceptance Month and April 2nd as World
Autism Awareness Day, supporting Miami Day County Commissioner Raquel Regado's initiative encouraging municipalities across Miami Day County to fly the autism acceptance flag, directing the city manager to fly the autism acceptance flag beginning in April 2nd,
2026 and throughout the month of April, providing for implementation and providing for an effective Thank you, Mr. White. And as we all, I think, know that this is a a cause that's near and dear to Commissioner Regal Auto's heart, affects many families and many of us or those that we
know. Yes. Moved by Councilman Kennal, second by Councilwoman. Appreciate the support, Councilman Fletcher. >> Yes. Thank you. And one thing I'd like to offer uh as we look forward to to doing this one uh let's look at the other months uh for breast cancer
awareness, prostate awareness, you know, the other significant events that affect all of us. I think we could be doing a a different flag every month to help support our community, but you know, let's let's look at expanding this program overall. >> And certainly, you know, we've done the pink lighting on city hall for
>> Yes, Councilwoman. your mayor, I was going to add that this month also is um month of the military child and in the past I've requested for the >> is that April or March? >> April. >> Okay. >> U for uh for the police department to be lit up in purple as well as the city hall if
possible and I know that there's been an issue with our lighting issues with lighting. >> Right. But if there's an ability to light up city hall and the police department, please do for months of the military child. Thank you. >> Okay. About that, Mr. Manager. >> Do we have a flag? >> Is there a flag? Not that I'm aware of,
but just to light it up in purple. Thank you. >> At least the PD in this building if if possible. >> So, do you want to amend this motion the reser to reflect city hall as well as amend it to to include that? Yes. Okay.
>> So, the the maker and the uh the second have accepted that certainly. So, if you could do that, Mr. White, and uh we'll have a roll call vote. >> Councilwoman Ksky. Yes. >> Councilman Fletcher. >> Yes. >> Councilman Rob. Yes.
>> Councilman Cannibal. >> Yes. >> Councilwoman Abilo. >> Vice Mayor Bailey. >> Yes. >> Mayor Osman. >> Yes. >> The motion carries. >> Thank you all. And uh we can get that flag bought of sufficient size and get it up there on uh April 2nd. The autism
flag. Okay. My next item is filling a recent appointment. Not the ongoing city resident. recent vacancy to the police pension board uh by retired police captain Thomas me if any objections to to that appointment of retired captain
me. Second uh naming vice mayor Bailey as the council liaison to the education committee and sure you're going to bring forward some ideas about how to re reconfigure that.
We'll all make some appointments. And uh I know councilomano, we were supposed to do this at the end of the meeting last month and it got rather late and I think we all lost sight of the fact that you had and I had you had request and I had promised as during the course of the meeting that under my
business you would be appointed as the South Chamber liaison. >> Yeah, there you go. So, so uh I know you all will do us proud. So if there are no we could have just a a motion and a second for for
those three items. >> All in favor? >> Thank you all. That is all I have. Um wow. All in in in good time this evening. Thank you all. It's been a been
a very productive evening. >> Thank you. >> Appreciate all of you. We have a motion to adjurnn. >> Moved and seconded. All in favor? Any opposed? Thank you all. Meeting adjourned.