from Cuba to Miami um in search of a better future and and really just trying to preserve their own culture at the same time. >> How do you bring your culture into your work or community? My origins um
are pe hardworking people and I try to be very detailed and um give the best of me to perform any work and also it's very important to help each other. >> Number one thing that I learned I always
bring for my culture is working hard never give up and always doing my best in everything that I do. always keeping the community at mind in everything that that I do and doing the best possible work that I can do. I think we bring our culture into work in community by
recognizing the struggles that we faced and coming coming in and trying to overcome obstacles and just carrying that spirit of perseverance um with you every day. >> Do you have a favorite tradition or dish from your culture?
>> Yes. Uh about food, I have many favorite dishes, but in particular, I really like ceviche. >> So dishes um everybody everybody's favorite here. I have made it many times. Uh number one of them is mangoo,
which is a plantain dish. Um uh from the Dominican Republic. Another one is rice and beans that everybody loves when I make it. And those are my favorites as well. My favorite tra traditional dish I think would have to be Cuban pizza.
[Music] 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, view your document. If any corrections or additional do 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. 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. [Music]
Meet Jorge and Lupe Lugo, recipients of the Homestead CRA residential grant. Well, they fixed up they they put a new roof which we're very glad because it was too old. And they also fixed the garage door which it we couldn't set. I
mean it has to be hold by stack otherwise it will fall on us. It was very dangerous. We have a new one which is great. [Music]
Thank to Malik that help us, you know, with the program and we're so happy now about her. Thank you to the CR Homestead. We're very pleased and we're so happy and I really thank them.
much. >> If you're interested in the residential facade program, contact the Homestead CRA by emailing CRA grants at homesteadfl.gov or call 305224486 to learn more.
[Music] 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. [Music]
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 mark time. And after of us who were Andrew, we say the hurricane and every 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 is 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 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 the new home of the Homestead Championship Rodeo, a beloved tradition that has brought the community together for decades. This project embraces progress without leaving our roots behind. >> Well, what was your impression when you saw the deal for the park? So this was a
real win for us. 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 legend. 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 goto 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 homestead regional park.com. Homestead, the future lives here. 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 HPOS 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 HBS Energy supports Homestead's growth by providing safe, reliable, and affordable electric service. Powering
your life, powering our future. Because at HBS, our commitment is personal. You're not just a customer, you're our neighbor. 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. [Music] >> I'm always looking for creative ways to save money. [Music] 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.
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. [Music] The GarcA know a lot about insulation. When one of them wants to get away, they insulate themselves in another room. But that doesn't keep all the sound out unless you close the door. Just like
sound, cooled and heated air is always on the move. But with the right insulation, you have a protective thermal barrier that keeps the conditioned air where you want it. Truth is, insulation is one of the most cost-effective ways to lower your bills. Insulation is important anywhere your
house meets the outdoors, the cathedral, ceiling, walls, crawl spaces, but the best and easiest place to insulate your home is in the attic. Its effectiveness is measured as an R value, meaning resistance to heat flow. To do the job
right, you'll need at least R30, but R38 is the best. Now, the GarcAs know how to insulate themselves and their house. Brought to you by your local municipal electric utility and the Florida Municipal Power Agency.
>> Good evening everyone and welcome. I'd like to call the city of Homestead special call city council meeting to order. Today is July 30th, 2025 and it is now 5:38 p.m. Madame Clerk, could you please call the role?
>> Councilwoman Aila >> here. >> Councilman Davis >> here. >> Councilman Roth >> here. >> Councilman Canaval >> here. >> Councilwoman Bailey >> here. >> Vice Mayor Fletcher >> here. >> Mayor Losa >> here. Right. Very good. Our uh first and only
order of business tonight is uh car number 4685 VSGS agreement for Homestead Regional Park. So, Mr. Pearl, if we go ahead and read the resolution into the record. >> Yes, Mr. Mayor, this is a resolution of the city council of the city of Homestead, Florida, approving the ground lease agreement and development
agreement between the city of Homestead and VSGS Facilities LLC, a Florida limited liability company for the development, construction, operation of a multi-purpose sports facility, stadium, sports academy, and related improvements, authorizing the city manager to execute the agreement, providing for implementation, and providing for an effective date.
>> Thank you, sir. Mr. manager. I understand the city has a uh brief PowerPoint presentation providing an overview or did we want to have the uh proposed developer come first? >> Okay. Uh good afternoon, mayor and
council. Tonight the administration is happy, pleased and uh willing to guide the council through the presentation of the VSGS agreement for the Homestead Regional Park. It has
taken us quite a number of weeks of intense and uh interesting conversations and discussions and negotiation. I salute the dodgesness of the of the negotiating team on both sides and more especially the patience that everyone exhibited and
the conviviiality as well as the professionalism. Thank you everyone for this successful end to a quick and compelling negotiation. Something of high complexity was accomplished in a very short period of time that is
unheard of. In a previous negotiation I was involved in in city of Miami, it took close to 18 months. Uh but this team was able to get it through to the finish line in less than two months. Uh having said that, recall that on May 9th, the city administration received a
letter of interest from the developer team and we was presented to council on May 28th as a discussion item and for direction. Mayor and Council directed a negotiation to proceed comprising of myself, the city manager, the city
attorney, Mr. Mark Pearl, as well as the honorable mayor, Steve Lner. tonight is the product of that long winding and uh compelling negotiation and I'm happy to report back that we have
a product and a draft list that we can all live with subject to any other extinguating circumstances that was going to come up beyond today. Mr. director.
So, I'm going to ask the the developer team to step forward and uh pro you know provide us a quick overview. >> Is the mic on? Is there a mic on? >> Ah, okay. >> Perfect. Thank you. Hopefully I used it correctly. Well, good evening, Mayor
Lawler, members of the city council, Mr. Manager. Um, my name is Dennis Carbell. I'm with Acresman LLP Law Offices at 98 Southeast 7th Street, uh, Sweet 1100, Miami, Florida 33131. I'm joined by my colleague, Christopher Penellis, and our
client, uh, the CEO of VSGS, Dio Salah. Um, and also part of our team, Jackie Carmona. And um before I begin, some acknowledgements are in order. First, uh we would like to thank the uh South Dade
Economic Development Council for really bringing this all together. Um and also the South Dade Chamber of Commerce for their support. Uh the Homestead Rodeo Association who have uh worked with us and we have a letter of support from them that I believe is in your package, but if not, we can distribute it to you.
uh and also the homestead and reserve base uh which has been supportive and we will continue to work closely with them as we go through the land use and uh permitting processes assuming that you all approve of our lease tonight. Uh and of course I'd be remiss if I did not
thank uh city manager uh mayor Lner. Um special shout out to uh Mr. Pearl. Um but uh the mayor and the city manager drove a hard bargain and worked tirelessly with us, including through the last weekend to uh bring this in for a landing.
So I just want to give you some very brief highlights of the deal for the Homestead Regional Park. First, the lineup of who uh who you're entering into an agreement with. Uh this is a dream team of professional athletes and
entrepreneurs with championship experience in soccer obviously uh tennis, basketball and football. And uh Mr. Sil as I mentioned is here tonight. Now this is the site plan that we showed
you on May 28th. This is what we have been working towards uh for the last two months and uh it has not changed from what we had shown you before. Everybody seems to be happy with this site plan. Um, and so we just wanted to show it to you. Again, this is going to be an
excellent project for the city. Um, just uh with lots of public amenities and uh um the stadium uh hosting both soccer and rodeo and hopefully lots of other events.
And just very briefly to highlight the major lease terms, um we will be providing guaranteed public access to the fields improvements. Uh we will be paying rent in accordance with the uh schedule that's provided in the lease.
We have shared revenue streams with ticket sir charges uh hotel room charges um and shared revenue in naming rights and participation in capital events if there's uh any kind of assignment or or transfer of ownership. There is a
guaranteed city use of the stadium itself for up to 3 days. There is uh 7 days of guaranteed use for the rodeo for the uh the Homestead Championship rodeo. We know that that's an important annual event for the city and we want to honor
that tradition. Uh and uh we will be of course uh paying taxes and subject to the uh construction timeline that's set forth in the lease. And the city will be getting what we believe to be very significant economic benefits,
approximately $275 million in the value of the improvements alone. Uh in addition to 4,084 construction jobs, 513 permanent jobs after stabilization, um we will of course be paying a
building permit and uh we anticipate significant impact fees to the city and payment of taxes to the uh the city and the county. Um and we are thrilled to be able to bring this transformational project to Homestead. We are here
available to answer any questions you may have. Uh and we thank you again for the opportunity to do business. >> Thank you, Mr. Carbell. Appreciate it. Um just for you know setting the stage.
Um let's go ahead and have um any questions or comments from council. Um randomly I'll start. Councilwoman Aavala, would you like to kick it off? >> Thank you, Mayor. Thank you to staff and for um our mayor for putting forth
tremendous effort to to make this happen. Um in light of what I see as probably a home run, pun intended, but um a home run for the city of Homestead. I do I do think that this is a a legacy another legacy for the LNER family and
the east side will be internally grateful to have this kind of amenity uh for for our districts and and citywide. I do appreciate the efforts of um our parks department working with AYSO with Keysgate Charter High School and uh
other programs so that we can make sure that nobody's left out in in the remodeling of of what our programming will become as a result of this of this endeavor. And um I I think all of the questions that I had, I was able to get
those addressed during our briefings. Um maybe one question that I'd like to have some clarification on would be regarding the maintenance of the park in general. Are we going to um you know have the same standard and uh maintenance
practice when it comes to fumigating landscaping things like that? Is there going to be any difference between the fields that we use more versus less or is the entire park going to be taken care of 100% professionally all the time? the entire park and all of the amenities will be taken care of at the
same level by our client because it's it's a shared use. >> Very good. Uh for now, I'm going to rest with that. I'm sure more questions will come up, but I'm very excited to see this happen. >> Councilman Davis, >> thank you, Mayor. As my colleagues, I'm
just so excited um to see this happening. We used to live in the condos right next to the old stadium. We'd walk by there, my wife and I, under unused, you know, and the fields underutilized. And this is just great to start getting that focus back to that area. It's wonderful. I did have three things I
just wanted to bring up and I think are very simple. Um, I understand the uh the hours for uh the kids to play in the uh in the various fields up until 10 o'clock at night. I got it. What about summertime? Or are city uh Mr. city
manager, do we have appropriate number of fields and things for the kids because they won't be able to play there during the uh same daytime hours? Do we have enough field space for the young people when school is out? And does that also include like uh redeveloping
Harrisfield, you know, in the future? What how are we going to work that out? >> Um I I'll tell you the from the perspective of the lease, the public access schedule is uh the set throughout the year. >> Correct. And it's very I'm not disputing that. Um, I'm just saying what do we do
with with summertime kids? >> I just want to make sure uh the school that we plan to do the presidential academy is going to be in vacation and holidays as well. So, >> excellent. So, we keep we keep the kids in sports. There you go. >> Um,
>> the second issue I had again very minor uh when you look at the games that are played there frequently they go past 10 o'clock and they're rain delayed or overtime for a soccer game, what have you. Um, so we we are in a place where we can we can keep the lights on, you know, even though we don't own that park
anymore, but we're going to we're going to keep the lights on till that last game is is done. >> We will of course after that kick, you know, get out, go home, kids, go home. Um then the final thing that I had and this may be in the form of of a resolution um to ensure that there's
some type of a morals clause when it comes to sponsorship so we don't have the same problem that Miami Day County had with the with the heat arena you know >> I'm familiar with and I get it we'll probably end up having you know Bud Light Field or what have you but when when something comes of that negative
caliber can we have that in the form of a resolution or agreement to make sure that that is in the contract right up front that we're just not going to have that kind of problem. >> We're we're we're amendable to that and I think uh I do want to reserve on say the Bud Light sponsorship but um you know I understand where you're coming from and yes we're
>> indeed I would visit the Budlight sponsorship u but you understand where I'm saying we just don't want to have that embarrassment not only for your organization but for the city. >> Of course. Of course. >> So what is our resolution to that? Are we doing a Are we doing a resolution or are you committing to that in the
>> We're we we're committing to you this evening. We will not uh solicit any kind of uh I guess adult uh type of sponsor, adult entertainment sponsor. So I think council member Davis uh the administration is going to work with the city attorney's office of course with
the developer team >> to ensure perhaps language is inserted in the lease that gives us that ability to make sure that there's no uh such extraneous naming cl you know opportunities that arise uh I'm sure
they're willing to accommodate that uh that Mr. Dario SA stands up who is the CEO of >> we always in this negotiation we work with a common sense first and real world things and park is going to be for the kids and the family so we're not
building a casino so >> okay thank you very Mr. Mr. Mayor, that's all I got. Thank you very much. >> Very much council Ross. >> I want to make sure you're not the last one as usual. >> Thank you, mayor. Um, actually, I don't have that much. Um, I like what I see.
Uh, it's it's very beneficial financially to the city. Um, Councilman Davis mentioned the hours and I had mentioned those in our in my briefings as well. And you mentioned 10 o'clock, but in reality it's nine o'clock in the agreement. And I think we need to
explore extending those hours during the week because professionals like to get out later at night and play on the fields that are lit at night. And I think the weekend hours at 8:00 uh should be expanded as well. Is there a reason that
the cut off times were set at at these times? We don't have a problem. We also understand at night at those time is where the adult league is going to run the co soccer baseball. >> And I I believe Councilman Roth that
that's a reflection of what our general park opening and closing hours are now. Certainly, you know, as from the developers perspective, you know, they don't contemplate being there at, you
know, 9:30 or or 10:00. And you know, we we can make those adjustments as necessary in the final table. It's it's certainly not an issue for the proponent. That was kind a reflection of our in-house practices. Now, >> certain and I understand that. And as we
evolve into this complex, it's going to take some evolution as well to adjust the hours and times. This is these are all lighted fields. We don't I don't think we had the benefit of any lighted fields except for maybe >> Harrisfield baseball
>> and maybe some softball fields. So, >> I think um as long as it's not a restriction, >> you know, I I I just want to make sure that >> the citizens get to utilize the park as much as possible. >> We will encourage that. >> So, I I just >> I appreciate it, but I just want to see
it in writing. I just want to just make sure that it's been brought out. So, I mean, besides that, you know, um I enjoy the fact that um the rodeo is going to have a a new permanent home for the next 75 years. Actually, about 90 years, I
think, according to this 80 years, according to this agreement, >> so they'll get about 77. So, um, you know, it's I mean, as long as it it works the way it's been mapped out, I'm I'm I'm hoping it's a blessing and we
all benefit from it as a city and as developers. So, thank you, mayor. >> Thank you, Councilman. >> If I may, before Councilman Kabar jumps in, I think the rodeo folks actually submitted a letter of support. Uh there is also a draftou attached to this list
that outlines some of the expectations that is going to work towards thank you the home association they were >> um very open and really creative and finding solution and they can find in BSGS and our PH project.
>> Yeah. >> Um a a true partnership. I think we we understand the tradition and the culture and we were open to to discuss their high level term and we come to an agreement. >> Okay. And again we were very mindful and
they've been at the table virtually from the beginning of these uh these discussions >> and theou should have been uh in your package. We we had it executed and submitted. It was yes. Okay. Perfect. >> Thank you Councilman Cannibal. >> Yes. I'm going to say something today. I
am very happy with this deal. Very proud of this deal. Okay, this is all positive. I want to congratulate the city manager and his team and Matt Pearl. Amazing job. Okay.
[Laughter] So, you're going to have to tell the clerk to do when she's for to do the minutes what you just said. >> Okay. >> Today, understand that it councilwoman.
>> Thank you, Mayor. Well, I definitely do not envy any of the parties involved in this. Um, I appreciate how far it's come. Um, to the developer, thank you for really looking at the pieces of Homestead that are really important to
us. Um, the hours of operation was one of the first issues that I just wanted to make sure um that the residents did have those opportunities. And we have amazing talent here in Homestead. So, I'm just
so excited for all of our youth also to have more opportunities than they've ever been able to have close to home. Um, all my all my questions were answered during during our briefing. Um, just to
continue the puns with knocking things out of the park. Um, just a reminder to staff, the only piece that I'm sad to see not here is that track. So, just as you guys are continuing to do amazing work, just please look for land that we might be able to do something with with
a full full >> a fulls size track. >> Hopefully, we can make it possible. >> Thank you. >> We're hoping that's that is part of the parking parcel. >> Thank you, mayor. >> Thank And I'll just let me say that as a result of the meeting that the manager and I had with the charter
school representatives recently, yes, this week, yesterday, um it appears to be a real possibility. Certainly the field that was proposed, you know, in the oval in that option is is very
appealing to them. perhaps is is programmed largely in space that they are not utilizing that they have the right the non-exclusive right to use. >> But by having the track overlaid there, it could be done with minimal uh you
know reconfiguration of of their stacking and parking and pickup and drop off. So, uh, you know, that that's a very recent development that that's could be re re-imagined into into this site plan. Mr. Vice Mayor.
>> Yes. Thank you, Mr. Mayor and colleagues. Uh, this is an exciting day for Homestead. Uh, this is a big deal. This is a $275 million investment into our community, the great city of Homestead.
um that uh you know at one point was going to be a bond issuance for us to build a a park for the east side of town and now we're going to realize this beautiful facility and the potential benefits for a long
time. Uh it's it's truly remarkable to hear the manager, you know, express his gratitude of the mayor being on the negotiating team as well as uh the uh the omen's work that uh Mr. Pearl did.
So uh along with your team uh to uh come to this agreement. It's uh an exciting day for Homestead and um I'm just looking forward to you fasttracking your current schedule to make this bigger, sooner, and better. >> Uh all my questions were were basically
answered during our uh briefing and had a conversation today with uh the folks from the charter school as well and they're just uh wanting to make sure that they get some access to the facilities as well for the use of their kids. So, I think we've come to that
agreement and uh we're well on our way and uh Godspeed. >> Good job. Thank you. >> Hey, so let me give the opportunity for the public to weigh in on on this matter that's before us. Do you have anyone online? Hey, let's go ahead and do the
online folks. >> Uh yeah, we have Ram online, >> right? Ram, go ahead. You've got the floor. Three minutes. >> All righty. Thank you, May. Can you hear me? Just want to make sure >> we can hear you loud and clear.
>> All excellent. Thank you. I just want to say um I'm too am excited to what's coming to to uh Keyscape, this this big park, but I want to address this this post that I seen online that's kind of misleading and misinformation where it's
advertising this this actual facility, but it's making it seem like it's public access. I wanted to ask two questions to the uh to the to the builders. One, what exactly does the public have access to and then what exactly is going to happen
to the Keysgate kids and the AYSO that are there currently? And when you take over, what's going to happen to them? And then I have a question for the city manager. Uh Dr. Ziri, um, does the Homestead Rodeo have exclusive access to
this facility for rodeo and why? >> Thank you. Have a good day. >> Les, if if you don't mind, if you'd go ahead and address the inquiry as to um, you know, the the I think the question was, is it the Keysgate school access as
well as the AYSO? So, what we have in the lease is guaranteed minimum public access for the public to use. And this is, by the way, exhibit H of the lease. Um the uh
the multi-purpose they'll uh there are multi-purpose field, basketball courts, tennis courts, pickle ball courts, uh base one of the baseball fields, a volleyball court, of course, the playground. Uh and there'll be some uh restroom facilities and field parking parcels. Those are available.
um during non- peak hours for city residents. That's the minimum guaranteed depending on uh how the schedules work out. Um we'll be managing the park and can uh can accommodate other uses at other times depending on how uh it gets utilized during our program. And then in
addition uh there are during even during our peak hours there are not during our during the the peak hours for the city uh there are three multi-purpose fields basketball court three basketball courts four tennis courts uh one baseball field
pickle ball courts a volleyball court and of course the playground and restroom and parking >> and I implicit in that is just access to all of the the passive open areas. >> Right. Of course. >> And uh certainly I Ram I just want to
add that you know the Keysgate Charter School is and is is fully aware of of these access schedules. Um there will be public access in the earlier part of the day to a
limited part and you can go online and uh to the agenda packet. It's schedule H. Is that correct? >> Yes. that lays out the the current timeline. A as well as city has the the full access
during legal holidays all weekend. And there was a representation here tonight that the uh proposed developer would not have training activities that that folks in their residential potential residential academy would be out you
know concurrent with the general summer schedule. >> So that you know pretty much any time during during the day uh during summertime there would not be competing activities. Mr. Manager. So thank you Mr. Mayor. On
the question regarding rodeo, uh it's very simple. Currently the rodeo folks are located at the Harrisfield and the city has been exploring alternative locations for them for a while. This is a win-win situation where we intend to
have part of the city days to have the rodeo folks relocate to the stadium at cost but no rent. But they have to bear the operation and maintenance cost of that area when they are there and that will afford the city the opportunity to
release the Harrisfield for public use. Right now the location where the rodeo folks are staying 7 days or 10 days in a year are restricted for their use. So that will let the city release that place, refurbish, remodel and upgrade it
for ancillary sporting events days. So really there's no loss to the public benefit component. Uh the rodeo folks have already confirmed the intent to pay for any utilities and other operation and
maintenance costs during those rodeo days. So it's not really as if they're getting it entirely free. The cost is cost shared between the rodeo and uh the developer team. So to that extent I think it's a it's a very worthy and
correct position of the city public benefit criteria and package to allow them to move over to this location and that will solve a lot of problems for everyone. Thanks. >> And Ram, let me just add, I think we we skipped over the AOISO. Certainly, there
has been, you know, clear clear annunciation and provision for their needs that the that this traditional league activity with youth soccer through AYSO will continue. >> Yes. So it was a part of the discussion during the city's peak hours.
>> I I think we we uh submitted and transmitted a copy of the AYSOS that we currently have business with to the team. They're going to reach out to them for programming coordination. >> Yes. >> And uh currently the AYOs have some kind
of uh agreement with the cities where they rent facilities and have schedules a portion to them. We look forward to a continued mutually beneficial relationship that will continue with the AYU perhaps additional enhancements
which we look forward to. >> Yes. >> Thank you, Ram. Is there anyone else on? >> Okay. Uh just Yeah, just just one more follow-up question. Is the builder still going to um commit to the scholarships to local kids every year? And if so, how
many? And that's it. That's uh the No, we we've come up with a different uh financial benefits package which is what's in the uh in the lease. >> The short the short answer is is no. That has evolved into to other financial
aspects of the uh of the package. Um okay, >> that's all hard to pin to pin down. >> Um is there anyone else online? Okay, Mr. Mr. Ventura, do you need to uh put anything on the record? >> Thank you, Mr. Mayor, Council. Uh just a
quick thank you uh mayor and uh city manager for reaching out to the air base well in advance to uh listen to our concerns, make sure we were brought in very early, and we appreciate that. And we were able to go through any concerns we might have had. And uh that was
terrific. And I also want to thank uh the folks at VSSGS uh for agreeing to work with us and they listen to our concerns. They know what you know concerns we have and they're going to continue I know to uh work with us through things like stadium lighting as as the time comes and we progress. So we
just wanted to come out here to to say thank you. We're happy it's going to work out for the for the city and for all the airmen that work out there at the base as well and a big win for everybody. So thank you all and that's all ahead. >> Thank you. appreciate your involvement in this. All right. Is there anyone uh
Mr. Bass, did you wish to speak? >> Good afternoon, Mayor and Council. Jason Bass with an address 17895 Southwest 296 Street, Homestead, Florida 330. Um Viking Investment Group. Uh congratulations. This project looks amazing. I think it's going to be a huge
asset for the city. That's a big win. um as a great great property for for the use of it's a sports complex and and and it should be developed as such. Um my issue and I'd like to go on record today is uh the 160 acres that's included in
this proposal project that gives the uh the these operators the first right of refusal I think 160 acres. Um, we've been working on a project down on that mitigation property, the 530 acres for about a year now. Uh, we have a lot of
time, money, energy, and effort involved in that. Um, that's a huge over 400 acres down there inside the urban development boundary line that the city owns. It's a extremely valuable asset. Extremely extremely. And by taking 160
acres of it off the table, it diminishes the value of the property greatly. And it and it all but halts anybody's ability to move forward with the due diligence that that we've been doing. We have over hundred something thousand dollars with our environmental team
which is I would say the best team definitely in South Florida the state maybe the country Michael Goldstein and Ed Sway and the Terracon Group and we got a lot of money with those guys. So what I would ask is that if it's not a
complete deal breaker for this team because I believe this is a huge asset and and I know you guys have a lot of hard work in this but there's also a huge assets the south of this very huge asset. Um we have a huge project planned for down there that we were working on putting together and getting in front of
you guys. Some people are aware of it some aren't. We're not getting into that tonight. But I I don't think and I don't think that it should be a make or break for the 160 acres for these people. This all happened very fast. Congratulations on fast tracking this thing. Holy cow. Warp speed, right? Um
and and and I don't see also how knowing what I know about that property, what it's going to take to to finish just getting to where we're at to to to come up with our plan for for mitigation of other properties and everything. Once we get into that, the the price goes up and
it's astronomical. And I don't see how any use that I've seen up on there, which is great, could be financially feasible to do on this property. Cuz when you start calculating in fill prices and all the remediation, the purchasing of other
properties and everything like that, I don't understand why that 160 acres needs to be involved in this project. It's not beneficial for the city. It's it it it it it diminishes an asset that the city has. And uh although I'm completely supportive of this project,
everybody is. It's a great project. I'm not here to do anything to to harm this project, but I do need to protect my interest. And I'm also looking out for the city and residents over 400 acres down there inside the UB
and Day County. And it's all priceless. So, I'm on the record and thank you. Thank you, Mr. Pass. All right. And we may may come back and address that, but let's let's take the rest of any uh public comment, any public.
Long time no see, but give us your name and address for the record if you would. >> Good evening, Mayor. Good evening, council. Doug Zerry. Uh my name is Daniel Berdier. I'm the head of schools over at Keysgate Charter School. Um just want to thank you for hearing me for a couple of minutes here and thanks uh Mr.
Fletcher for taking my call today. Um, I am here to advocate for the 2,000 families that we do represent for the city of Homestead and for our students that we have at Keys Gate Charter School. I will first begin by congratulating everyone. This is a great opportunity and I I think this is
wonderful for the city and we're really proud to be able to be supporters of this and to be behind this project. um we do feel like we were a little bit late in the game um of being involved in kind of some of the conversations that
were happening. So, a couple of quick questions that I have for the council is one, um, as us having part of a non-exclusive lease, uh, with the city that does utilize some of the space that the park will go on, how will this
company work with us to kind of come to a spot of mutual agreeance to have access or access points to be able to have our students utilize that space during both peak and on peak. And the second is with having 3,000 students,
obviously safety is a huge priority to us and we know with construction uh is not always easy. Um we do have spaces that we are utilizing in the back now. Um and we just want to know is there a plan for assurance to make sure that all
workers are vetted and h excuse me and how the security measures will be put in place to ensure that our students as they play in those uh back areas are safe. Um and then finally my last uh part would be just our focus on being
able to have access points um from the school. We know that there will be access points to the park um logistically to move students from point A to point B. Uh so what we ask is that the company or the developers do work
with us. Um we are very immunable and very willing to work in order to make this project successful. um but that they work with us to be able to ensure that our students at Keysgate are being given the fair opportunity uh to utilize
this space which it is developed for for students and children and and kids. So thank you all. Appreciate it. >> Thank you. I think you raised a couple of points that we we need to clarify here. You've created something on the record and and I think we need to to
clarify that. You talk about or talk in terms that the park is proposed to include areas upon which you have a non-exclusive right of access. And I'm assuming you're talking about that
what's been called the parking area. Is that correct? >> Um >> I know I think we have two two sets of documents with correct >> with Keysgate High. We've got the lease that defines a specific piece of property. >> Correct.
>> And a secondary document that def that grants a non-exclusive parking right on a parcel line generally north of the school. >> There's the one north of the school. The
one I'm referring to is um for the baseball dormitories that were converted. There's also a recreational area >> um that was identified in that in that lease. Again, I'm my legal team is is working through those documents to take
a look at um the spot that it's in reference to. >> Um but that's those that's the particular area that we're referring to. Again, it's my understanding and again subject to final surveys that the park I mean legally without your consent cannot
include areas under your master lease, your your school lease. >> I'm not I'm not sure of that. >> Well, and and and you know, and we need to clarify that, >> right? that um you know the the the amended the
proposed site plan does not include any area under which you have the exclusive right to operate the school. >> Correct. That's that's the first issue. >> Copies of the lease agreement if I I could leave that copy. >> I refer to Mr. Pearl our attorney. So the survey for this project was when the
surveyor that the developer sent out, they looked at your your lease agreement and based on the legal description, that's how they crafted the boundaries for their for their site plan to the extent that we need to make adjustments and we'll look at that and I'll work with them and
we'll accommodate that. Okay. >> But it was the the configuration that the developer came up with was based on the review of your lease and the legal that's included within that lease agreement. >> Okay. >> In in short, the ultimate buildout will
not encroach upon your lease leaseold interest. >> Okay. >> There. Now, and let me I know you're talking about access points because at this point you can walk from the the school property out in into the park, >> correct? and there didn't appear to be,
but but let me ask it if they can answer me. Um, is there a contemplation of any permanent fencing or walls that would prevent direct access from the back of the school into the park? >> No, we we haven't gotten to that level
of detail construction drawings. >> What's that? >> Yeah, that's at site plan level. >> Yeah. So, you know, certainly, you know, all of those interests will be taken into account as as best they can. >> Of course, and and of course, we know we need to work together to realize the track on the parking parcel. So,
>> right. >> Yeah. That's that's a whole separate separate issue, you know, that's kind of sprung out of our recent meeting, I guess, >> that, you know, that's a a multi-party >> discussion. Okay. Anyone else?
Good evening. Brandy Ramirez, 2231 Southeast First Street. First want to say congratulations to the mayor. Um your law legacy is living on. This is a great project. Um I definitely want to say thank you to the council too for supporting it tonight and also to the
staff. What a great uh job on this. Thank you for being a mayor, answering the questions and getting clarifications for everyone that was here, especially Keysgate and the AYSO. Um, I do want to schedule meeting with the mayor and vice mayor soon, reference community concerns
and also with the chiefs. I I will be reaching out, but I also wanted to give an opportunity to our uh deputy city manager to clarify. Recently, mayor and council had a presentation reference to Rodeo and it was given by CES um
consulting LLC and just wanted to confirm if this is a company that she owns or does not. >> A presentation by the rodeo. >> No, it was a city. It had a city logo on it. You guys had just uh received it for
a presentation based on the cost and things that were going to happen with the rodeo. And on the bottom of it, it says CES Consulting LLC. >> Can I answer that question? >> So, just want to give an opportunity that she's not the owner of Mr. >> So, thank you Brandon Ramirez, Miss uh
for the question. You're welcome. >> As CS consultant was retained by my office, >> okay, >> to prepare a physibility study which preceded whatever we're discussing tonight. that was predicated on the fact
that we were exploring opportunities to find a permanent home for the rodeo folks in conjunction and as a consequence of a directive from the board of Miami date county commission to work with the triarty arrangement with
the commission statehood the speedway and agriculture community to find a permanent home for firm. In order to advance the physibility study, we retain the consulting firm of CES
consultants which Sunb under the Florida State Secretary of State. You can confirm that CS consultant is owned by the principal Mr. Rudy Motis, a professional engineer of good standing
who has worked in the South Florida area for more than 20 25 years. They prepared a feasibility study. It was submitted to my immediate county and it was accepted by the board of county commission. Personally, I was at the meeting with
folks from the rodeo as well as so to my knowledge to do with the publicity manager. >> Perfect. I always like to give you clarify that because I don't like the, you know, misinformation to be out in the community and I think it's only fair
to give people that that opportunity. So, thank you for making sure that was clarified and continue the good work. Thank you. >> Thank you. Any further from council? >> Well, hang on. Any further public comment?
Um, very quickly, let let me just ask since it's on the record and is it is not insignificant. Um, with respect to to the develop to the proposer, is at this point the right of first
refusal a hard and fast deal breakaker? Is there something that we could back up and and and look at during the due diligence period? It's it it is important to us to uh have the opportunity to expand the program.
And so um it doesn't kick in unless we uh pay the the fee by the commencement date. So there's still a few months to to work that out before it would even be coming. >> Well, so right now it's really unencumbered. >> That's correct. >> So long as you're in the uh your inspection period.
>> That's that's correct. All we would ask is that we have a seat at the table. Uh because obviously we have an interest in being able to expand the property. >> Sure. Okay. Thank you. Mr. Panellis, did you have anything to add? >> No, I was just uh Mr. Mayor, uh council members, for the record, Christopher Panelis,
>> associate people offices, 98 Southeast 7th Street, City of Miami, Florida. Um as as uh my colleague, Mr. Capel mentioned, my client's making a significant investment into this area. Obviously, as a reflection of that long-term partnership, we want to continue to invest and continue to partner with the sh the the city moving
forward. And in in furtherance of that goal, uh we would like to maintain at least the ability, right, to have a seat at the table and further those conversations and look at how this parcel could play into an expansion of our project and the recreational facilities that we're providing. Uh so,
at this time, it is something that we want to keep on the document. We want to further those conversations. Um, and we're happy to meet uh with the other proposal and the other party that's interested and see how we can collaborate. We're certainly not trying to push anybody out of the picture. Certainly not trying to be a problem for
any projects or efforts that are ongoing. Uh we're just looking for a little bit more to continue our investments in this community um and make sure that we can flourish and continue to expand with the city of Homestead. Thank you. >> All right. So, you know, with with that,
um, you know, I think for the most I shouldn't say for the most part, um, I feel that your side of the table is always dealt in in good faith. We'll provide you with the contact information and hope that tomorrow morning you can begin those discussions and and mesh
your interest so that uh, you know, the the issues that Mr. Bass brought forward as to the bigger picture of the value of that parcel while preserving the concerns you have I think can can all be be met.
>> We'd be happy to meet with them. >> All right. I think so. And let me add my thanks to to everyone certainly, you know, the other side who has uh all
dealt diligently and and in good faith. Uh certainly to the city manager and again I'll I'll add the kudos to to Matt Pearl who's given up at least two weekends full weekends that I know of. Uh many late night you know I
can think of a few times where the manager Mr. Pearl and I were on the phone at 9:30, 10:00 at night after several other after hours uh calls. Um I appreciate that. It's it's it's
been fun. It's been grueling but but fun. Um, most importantly from our side of the table, this contract is the culmination of the learning
experience from three or four decades of a lot of mistakes and missteps that have been taken by the city. You know, we first had the conversation and and gave the manager the authority to go out and and begin negotiating.
I certainly articulated that first and foremost was public access and we have accomplished that. These lease numbers as fiduciaries for the public, these lease numbers, these dollar amounts have
not been pulled out of our ears. We all had we had our financial consultants. We we came to some agreement as to what we believe the property is worth as it sits, what a fair return is to the city.
Balancing that with the contribution that uh these folks are going to make a significant equity contribution to uh it's it's staggering with what what with the the amenities that are coming sooner
rather than later. And I think equally important is the fact that you know from those learning experiences we have hard and fast and very clear obligations
on both sides of this deal that this is not another LA or any number of those situations. Our obligations and our rights strict timelines and are very clear. We all understand them. we all understand our
goals here and uh you know what's the saying that if nobody walks away entirely happy it's probably a good deal and I think that's uh that's where we are you always want to second guess that maybe you could have gotten more money or some more days or some more time but
let's face it the public is getting a worldclass park with no real outlay on on the city's part I want to thank everyone from both sides who spent untold I say untold and I'll joke and
say untold until we get their fee statement for this month. But um it it's been quite an ordeal. You know, our manager talked about 18 months to do the Miami Freedom Park. This has
been accomplished in less than 18 weeks. quite quite quite an undertaking, but I think it's it's a reflection of two teams that really weren't trying to get the better of each other, that were driving toward a fair and equitable and
reasonable deal. And that's why we are are here. Not to compare scope of our property or the the intensity of the construction of of our project to Freedom Park, but it's no less important. I mean, this project is no
less important, if not more important, to us and the people of the city of Homestead than Miami Freedom Park is to the city of Miami and and its residents and and the uh the impact that it will will have. I mentioned earlier, I think
this is a point today where we have finally as a city turn the corner and can begin to move forward. Now, the manager and I sometimes feel that his daily regimen is to dig out of a hole that was two or
three decades in in the digging and here we are that we're we're kind of climbing out and and beginning to make progress. And I am very thankful and and grateful for the opportunity to have uh to have been part of this. You know, finally,
I'd like to say, see, I I told you so. The county site was not the site from day one in the commission chambers. I told you Homestead is where you need to be. So, let me have my moment of I I told you so.
only only with the uh the expertise and the professionalism of of our team and our city manager and the vision and the commitment of each and every one of you in your district. Mr. Vice Mayor, would
you like to make the motion to approve? >> I will make the motion to approve. >> Move to approve by Vice Mayor Fletcher. You know, I I know there's no such thing, but I would love to co-se it with you.
>> No thirds. No thirds. >> All right. So, is there Mr. Mayor? >> Yes. >> I'm sorry. Before we proceed with the vote, and I think we're all happy with where we're going, I'm going to ask for a slight amendment to the resolution. If I can have a motion to grant uh the city manager and I to make some non-financial
amendments to address several of the issues that were up here tonight for a signature. I think I have a a short list relating to the limitation on the naming um addressing any issues with the legal description um through the inspection period. You can delegate that authority.
I think >> is that implicit in your motion, Mr. Vice Mayor? >> I revised my motion to include that. >> Okay. Thank you. And Mr. city attorney inclusive of the time instead of 9:00 p.m. to see if we can uh yes I have extend it a little bit. >> I mean given it given it's a lighted
facility maybe we we don't is it necessary to limit the public's access. Yeah. All right. Nothing there is nothing further. Let's have a roll call vote. >> Councilman Canavan.
>> Yes. >> Councilman Davis. >> Yes. >> Councilman Roth. Yes. >> Councilwoman Bailey. >> Yes. >> Councilwoman Aila. >> Yes. >> Vice Mayor Fletcher. >> Yes. >> Mayor Lawner. >> Yes. >> Motion carried. >> Thank you all. >> Thank you all very, very much. We look
forward to being good partners with you. >> Mr. Mayor, before you close, I just want to take the opportunity to extend my deep appreciation to my staff. Um, Miss Kimar Brown, Miss Crystal Olivera, the
parks director, the finance director, and uh, Josh Rios in my office, as well as Eileen and Jackie and everyone that worked on this project. It's been a very, very tasking exercise. So my kudos to all of you and of course the police
chief who has volunteered to reach out to you guys to seek perhaps some kind of incorporation in the in public safety concerns once we get into the weeds. Thank you everyone for your support and of course the non city entities the
homestead rode association the EDC and Mr. Larry Ventura as well as the members of the public that quipped in with ideas and suggestions as we walk through this. Thank you. Lastly, but not the least, Mr. City at Tony, Mr. Matt Perau.
Yeah. And just I know our stellar uh CEO of Homestead Hospital is is here. He was. There he is. There's Ken. Thank you for for listening in and just finally I
think this this is going to establish a new level of trust in the community when this starts coming out of the ground in early March or earlier. Um real sign of progress. Command, did you have
>> Yeah, I want to sponsor the >> Yes, I want to sponsor the back to school bash this coming Saturday at Los Park. It's going to cost us like $750. So, >> and that's scheduled for this this week in Los Park. Yes.
>> Very good. All right, Mr. Manager, anything further? >> No, Mr. Mayor, thank you council members for your great appreciation and for your support tonight. >> Mr. Attorney, >> nothing for me. Just a collective thank you to everyone involved.
>> Thank you. >> All right. I think I heard a motion and a second to adjurnn. All in favor? >> Any opposed? >> Thank you all again. [Music] 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
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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.
Hi, my name is Adam Juul and I'm a sculptor and muralist from Denver, Colorado and I'm painting a mural on the historic seminal theater here in Lzner Park. My name is Kenny Magcguire. I am a professional muralist and artist and uh this mural was just completed about 2
weeks ago. It took me 47 days and this entire thing is hand painted in oil, oil-based enamel. This project's about 2 years in the making. Um, I I was one of three finalists who presented at a city council meeting and was one of two
artists chosen to paint on the theater. >> I put a scaffolding up and climbed to the top of this building over 250 times to to paint to finish painting this thing. >> Such a great opportunity. It's an honor to be down here and uh to create a piece
that's lasting for a community that this one specifically um highlights the Everglades. And so we have a great blue heron and uh two actually endangered species of the Everglades. One being the ghost orchid on the left there and the
other the hieroglyphic mosque. I've wanted to paint the Everglades on a mural for a long long time. So this is kind of the fulfillment of a dream for me. The fact that I got to put that here when Homestead is kind of the gateway to the Everglades is pretty great.
[Music] 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. [Music] 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.
[Music] >> 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 Redport 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. 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. >> 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. >> 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. 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. [Music] Fore [Music] [Music] I'd like to call the city of Homestead. Almost correct. Fiscal year 2025 2026 first public
budget hearing special call meeting to order. Let's have a roll call please. Madame clerk. >> Councilwoman Avula >> here. >> Councilman Cannibal >> here. >> Councilman Davis >> here.
>> Councilwoman Bailey >> here. >> Councilman Roth >> here. >> Vice Mayor Fletcher >> here. >> Mayor Losner >> here. And what I would like to do uh you know in our cow committee the whole agenda we have a couple of insurance items and the presenter is here and we
also have a presentation on the qualic B in order to not require those folks to sit through a lengthy budget hearing. I'd like to recess we we've opened this meeting according to the published
publication. I'd like to have a motion to recess the budget meeting. We will then convene the cow meeting for those two items and come back to this budget meeting, do the budget meeting, and then
reopen the cow. >> Sounds good to me. >> So, do we have a motion to recess the budget meeting? Moved by Councilwoman, seconded by Councilman Countball. Is there any public uh input? Anything further from council? All right. Do we
need a roll call or we can just do a voice? >> A voice for this. >> All right. All in favor of recessing this meeting. >> Any opposed? All right. So, having said that, I will now call to order
the city of Homestead um committee of the whole agenda. Today is still September 9th,
2025 and it is at about uh 6:10 p.m. Let's have a roll call for the committee of the whole meeting. >> Councilman Raw >> here. >> Councilwoman Avula >> here. >> Councilman Cannibal here.
>> Councilwoman Bailey >> here. >> Councilman Davis >> here. >> Vice Mayor Fletcher >> here. Mayor Los >> here. Thank you. So for purposes of uh we just discussed
let's jump to tabs looks like uh tab >> tab five >> five >> and six and then we will go to tab 11. So tab six
welcome Five. >> Five. Five. Yes. >> All right. Good evening, mayor and council. Beet Freeman, HR director. The item before you is our our fiscal year 2026 renewal for our cyber liability coverage. Um we are happy to announce
with our brokers Brown and Brown um that we went out to market for our cyber liability and of course we were able to obtain favorable terms. Um we're happy to announce a 17.4% decrease. Um so that is about I believe it's about a $8,000
savings um which was budgeted for for the fiscal year 26. Um of course you know with everything going on in the world with cy cyber liability we were able to um to attract some new um enhancements to the plan
that will be able to protect the city. Um so right now we are recommending approval to move forward with the um renewal with Houston Casualty uh company for several reasons. The cost savings, the enhanced protection, and then most
importantly uh the stability staying with the same carrier. Uh that's important in these markets. >> Good. Thank you. Any questions or comments from council? Like to thank Mr. Jones and his team at Brown and Brown for uh bringing in this
uh for a landing. Once again, I know we do this every year with the budget, but it sure seems like we're talking in insurance more often than we are talking uh talking budgets. Uh looks like there's finally some relief coming out
there and we're really re-evaluating our needs. So, there any questions or comments from council? Let me open the public hearing on tab five. Okay, seeing none, I will close the public hearing and ask for a uh this
will be a uh a voice mo voice uh motion and uh vote on tab five moved by Bailey, seconded by Councilman Roth. >> All in favor? >> Any opposed? And tab six.
>> All righty. Good evening again. This is the renewal for our general liability and access workers comp package. Again, with Brown and Brown's um assistance, we were able to go out to the market um to market the city's uh general liability program along with our workers
compensation. Uh we are pleased to announce the renewal um with some terms through Pigot, which is the public risk insurance trust. Overall, there is a rate increase of 8% which is favorable with the market. Um we are HR and risk
management will be working over the next year working on a very um large project which is redoing our um our our programs when it comes to risk risk management. So we're going to be looking at the accidents doing um investigations and
kind of really getting out there and getting to the root cause of the issues that we're having with our workers comp and and accidents. Um so it is about a 8% increase which equals about $80,000 which was budgeted uh we budgeted for 10% um for the 2026.
Um there are some things that we wanted to mention with Pigot which is the public risk insurance trust. There's an adjusted from 5 million um 6 million to 5 million just because of the the capacity of the market. And that it's
important just to note that the sovereign immunity in Florida still remains at 200,000 per person and 300,000 per occurrence. Um right now we're recommending the renewal through Pigot um for fiscal year 26. >> Thank you again. Any questions or
comments from council. So let's get a motion on the table for tab six for the renewal. Moved by Councilman Davis, seconded by Councilman Cannibal. We have any public comment? Any public comment on this matter?
Okay, I'll close the public hearing. Um, all in favor? >> Any opposed? All right. Very good. Thank you, Mr. Jones. You can go home and do something more productive than uh than watch us. And we'll move on to tab 11.
Um, will that be uh Miss Torcivia, welcome back. Thank you so much, Mr. Mayor. Uh, good evening. My name is Gemma Torcivia. Um, I believe I have met uh all of you at one point or another. Um,
I want to apologize for the briefings. I was unable to meet with you, Councilman um Connival and Councilwoman Abula. Uh but I want to thank you all for taking time um to review this. We do have Jim Lang who's an attorney from Greenberg
Tarig on the line as well and I'll get through this presentation. It will be brief and then Jim will be available to ask questions. So um Jim Lang and Greenberg represent both the city of Homestead and Homestead station qual B which is a component unit of the city
and a closely affiliated entity a special purpose entity that was created for the purposes of facilitating facilitating the new market tax credit transaction. So today we're here to discuss unwinding the new market tax credit transaction
for Homestead Station. The new market tax credit program is a program that was created by the US Treasury in 2000. The goal of the program is to reinvigorate economically distressed communities by attracting
private capital and investors. And in the transaction, there are three parties that are relevant for us. An investor, one or more community development entities, and one or more qualified active low-income community businesses.
Uh we call them qualicbees, which is an abbreviation for qualified lowincome active community business. And this shows the flow of funds which is the investor at the top down to the CDE and down to the qualic
B. And ultimately the way the program works is that the investor generates 39% of their investment in the form of a tax credit that vests in them over 7 years. And because there's a seven-year period
for the vesting, there's a seven-year compliance period for the new t new market tax credit program. So at the top we have the investor and in our case in this transaction that investor is Capital One Bank. Then we have the community development entities
and in our case we have three of them. A community development entity is an intermediary and they take investor capital and transfer it into a business that's qualified for the new market tax credit program. The investors receive an
equity stake in the CDE. And in addition, the CDEs are empowered to give tax breaks to investors in exchange for their investments. The CDEs can make loans and investments to businesses and communities at rates or with flexibility that's not possible
in the open market. And then underneath them is the qualified active loan community business. So in this transaction before we talk about the qual there are three CDEs. CDE affiliated with McCormick Barin Salazar that we refer to as MBS.
this affiliated with Banko Popularar which is a bank that's originates in South Florida and Puerto Rico and their CDE is known as PCC and then Capital One who's an investor
as well also has a CDE known as CCRF. So they're the three CDEs that are involved in this transaction. Now under that you have the qualified active low-inccome community business which is a business that's approved through the new market tax credit
program that is located in an economically distressed community. The community has to be at distress at the time of investment. The goal is obviously for the investment to help the community shift from economically distressed to prosperous.
Qualic bees are in a position to improve the economic standing of their community by receiving funds for CDEES that then go into qualified projects. Qual bees have a 7-year compliance period with respect to new market tax credits. And at the end of the seven
years, the transaction is unwound and there's a closing. The unwinding involves this Qualic B either ending or taking steps to become independent of the new market tax credits.
Homestead Station Qualic B Incorporated is a qualified active low-income community business as defined by the new market tax credit program when it was created in 2018. It was created in 2018 by this council
via resolution 2018-06-62. Now, I did include that resolution in this agenda item as exhibit A. The goal was to provide a portion of the funds needed to build the Homestead Station project and that goal was
fulfilled that went into Homestead Station and there was and the new market tax credit program is designed as gap financing. It's not intended to be the primary vehicle. It's intended to close the gap. And for this
purpose, the funds were expended and they were successfully expended because Homestead Station was successfully built and operates to this day. Homestead station qual it served to facilitate the completion of the project um by
providing that cap financing through the new markets for the program. So, as we talked about the 7-year compliance period, it began in 2018 and it is now complete. As a result, the Qualic B will unwind
via closing transaction which was established via contract by the Homestead City Council in 2018. So at the time that the entity was created and the transaction was entered into the unwind had already been laid
out negotiated among all of the parties the investors the CDEES the qual and the city and contracted for. As I said, the the transaction and the closing will involve the city, the
qualic B, the three CDEES, and the investor Capital One. After the closing, Homestead Station Qualic B incorporated, which is a true nonprofit, can be dissolved by the board of directors and at that time, all Qualic B assets will
transfer to the city. With that, um, I do want to flag that I also included a memorandum explaining this in a bit more detail in your packet as the first memorandum, exhibit one.
And then I included a road map that's provided by the Department of Treasury, the CDFI fund, which provides more detail about the new market tax credit program. With that, I would like if we could just bring Jim up and if there's
any additional questions, um, he is standing by. >> All right. Council, any questions? Okay. So, um, the action you're looking for tonight then is an authorization to
set the wheels in motion for the dissolution. Is is that a fair assessment? Um, that's an excellent question, mayor. So, the intent is that tonight is a discussion opportunity for questions to be answered with the intent of bringing
this a resolution confirming the city's approval of the closing to the September 24th council meeting. The closing transaction with all of the parties is scheduled for October 2nd. And so, the board of home sensation quality will
meet. They will also have to approve closing documents. The city will approve closing documents. The attorneys, Matt Pearl and Jim Lang, respectively, will hold those documents in trust until the actual closing on October 2nd. And then all the other parties will have executed
their closing documents and they will exchange those documents and then the closing will commence. So the the vote will be on a resolution and the closing documents which will come to the September 24th council meeting. The closing documents are currently
being exchanged among all the attorneys for all the parties. So Matt, Pearl, and Jim Lang have been on these emails for months and seen all these drafts going back and forth. We did inform them of the timeline and the vote on September 24th. And so the attorneys for the investors and the CDEES have committed
to getting us final closing documents by this Friday so we can circulate them to the attorneys and to you all so you have an opportunity to review them before the September 24th vote. >> Okay. Very good. And just kind of a you
know from a a high level view just because you mentioned it and I'm somewhat familiar with it and some of the council me a couple of the council members were here when this was was adopted and and implemented upon the dissolution. There are certain assets coming directly back to the city of
Homestead. Just a real quick highlevel description of what those assets are that will as of the second then be owned by the city of Homestead. >> Um that's a great question, mayor. And so what will happen on the second is the new market tax credit transaction will
unwind and it the compliance period will be over and all of the parties in that transaction will no longer be bound to each other under the terms of the transaction. The city manager has requested a final audit of home sensation qual B which will go until the
last day of operation of the entity which will likely be either October 15th or November 1st. Once that audit is concluded, this item will come back to the council and you all will need to vote the same way you did in 2018 to approve this and to
authorize the entity. you will vote and you will approve a resolution that effectively takes back the assets and forgives a debt. So the city holds a loan that the Qualic B they've
effectively lent the Qualic B $30 million and the Qualic B holds a $30 million asset of Homestead Station. So before the actual entity of the nonprofit is dissolved, the city will forgive the loan, the qualic B will then
transfer the $30 million asset to the city and then whatevering in the account of home sensation qual B which are estimated between $800,000 and a million will be swept back to the city and those are funds that'll go into the
general fund to be spent at the council's discretion. Maybe those need to go into our infrastructure trust fund. I think that's where we hopefully we'll we'll have that discussion at some other time. >> Questions from C Councilman Davis?
>> I do. I I want to make sure that the the timing of the audit and the unwinding of the of the corporate body that is now um taken into consideration the city manager's concerns of timing of these
things. Correct. Are you satisfied with the timing as stated tonight? Because they were very valid points in our briefing. >> No, I don't think we uh sorry, council member, I don't know if we do have any control over timing. >> There's two different processes here. One there's two different processes
here. One is the unwind of the new markets tax credits transaction and that is that is mostly uh formulaic as to the uh documents that were entered into seven years ago. there's a put option that is being exercised by Capital One
Bank and we we have to respond to the put option or we're in an awkward position as the city or the quality as to how we they're going to put their interest to us and we have to agree for the most part to unwind the transaction and if we don't then we're we're in an
awkward position as to how we handle the the those intervening debts. So I think that there's one question as to how do we get this community development entity and the investor out of the transaction as planned seven years ago and as works in every one of these tax transactions
around the country in a new markets tax credit deal. The second question is I think you have a what is called a supporting organization. That's that qualified active low-income community business which is a taxexempt entity that supports the city of Homestead and
is is to some degree controlled by the city of Homestead through board membership. That entity can stay existing after the unwind of the new markets tax credits transaction and all agreements would be between the city and that entity.
Then as we've heard there's a request for an a closed down audit of that entity whenever that audit can get performed and I would imagine that's a relatively easy audit for the accounting firm to perform because that it's really a date count from I believe July and
whatever date they're able to issue that audit report at that pointy contributed back tended to be that in any case that have to go
that adopty then would own all assets of that entity including and importantly the property that was develop and has that that lease hold interest but the timing of the audit I would I would suggest that that gets done by the end of the year and I think that's
highly reasonable but I haven't heard from the accountants whether that's feasible for them but I can't imagine would not be. Um the reason for that is I don't think you all want the expense of keeping that entity alive past December 31st of this year.
>> That answer your question, Councilman Davis? >> I have nothing further. >> Thank you. Thank you, Mr. >> Okay. Okay. We're in budget. We're looking at reserves and so forth. talked about that
the city loaned the Qualic B $30 million to acquire an asset and and be the conduit for the new market tax credit borrowing. The source of that and again round
numbers the $30 million was borrowing by the city or did that come from reserves, general fund? What was the source of the dollars that the city actually loaned to the Qualic B?
If I can, mayor and council, it's it's deemed a loan, but if you recall, we issued a loan for the construction of the PTP. the way that the transaction occurred that the expenses that we incurred which was funded by the loan and PTP funds and other sources of
funding was treated it was treated as an asset on the qual books city and on the city's books a note receivable and in fund balance an unspendable portion of the fund balance from an accounting treatment that's
basically what you see if you look at our annual financial statements it's $30 million. So basically the bulk of that came from what was funded through the uh through the loans and then the other parts were the investments. The other
loans that are sitting that con helped to construct that building were the investments that were done through the through the CDEs. But again on the books notes payable and an asset on the qualic bee's books and on ours notes receivable
and an unfunded portion or unspendable portion of fund balance that'll all unravel and basically that that will all disappear and we will retain the asset which is worth $30 million. But the >> only thing I will I the only thing I
will add for that is in the transaction you'll see a series of what are called B notes in the transaction and those are all true debt for tax purposes and they're long-term debt instruments. What this unwind does is that that provides that the qual which again is a
supporting entity uh supporting organization of the city of Homestead will not repay those B notes in the any of their principal. So when you wind this down and you look at the gross amount of those B notes, that's the benefit for the project from doing
the new market tax credits transaction seven years ago. >> Okay. But I I still don't quite understand unless is it accurate to say the Qualic B was funded by the city with
monies that the city borrowed or was this just all dollars on paper? There were a lot of questions at the time out in the public how how was how was that built? Obviously,
we imminent domain and paid real money for the underlying land. So, you know what I'm getting at? Was it was it real dollars changing hands >> or what? Well, you the answer is yes,
there was real dollars changing hands. whether those PTP dollars I what I don't know off the top of my head in GMO or or uh someone else might know the answer is I can't remember if those were bonded or whether those were those PTP dollars were coming out of a reserve account >> and not it was
>> not to beat a dead horse but >> yeah the basic question is is it PTP dollars or and and again going back my initial question was was this money that Was this $30 million
or any portion of it money that came out of the reserves of the city of Homestead? >> The bond monies, the bonds that we issued were about $27 million. So that's a big part of it. >> Okay. Okay. So now, this was new money,
not old money. >> No, no. Certain PTP funds that were on hand were used, but remember when we got the >> But those were dedicated funds. >> Yes. And then when we got the 5.7 from the county, we we >> refurbished all the money some of those monies that were on hand if you recall
that too, right? >> When they they were the TI and ID funds that we received from the county, >> right? Okay. >> Very good. >> So, I guess we've been informed and we'll deal with this on September 24th.
Thank you, Mr. Lang and and Mr. Torsivia. I appreciate it. >> Thank you very much. Have a good night, >> Mr. Manager. Thank you. Okay. So, I think we're at the point now where I need a motion to recess this meeting
and then a motion to reopen the budget meeting after we do that. So, move to recess the committee of the whole meeting. Do you have a second? All in favor? >> Now, a motion to reopen the budget
meeting. Moved and seconded. All in favor? I. All right. It's easier than it sounded, right? Mr. Manager, Mr. Perez. Yeah. Everyone else has promised brevity.
You have not. >> It's all relative, right? >> I need I need to say this. The CRA director provided an 8minute present $13 million of a budget. I'm doing a 333 million.
I think I be I won't argue with it. >> Oh boy. >> Hey, did he say 38 minutes? >> He did. >> Yeah. >> Yes, sir. >> Can Can we order some Mama Mia or something? So um before we get into the first item
on the agenda for the special call uh under my privileges, I would like to withdraw car number 4691 on the special call agenda which is tab 11 titled repayment schedule for
underpayment by Homestead Speedway. That item is mute. It has been satisfied. So there's no need for us to continue with the item. Very good. Thank you, Mr. Manager. That was that was a surprising delivery. I'm very pleased.
>> Yeah. >> Worked out. All right. So, we've had the roll call. We've had the deletions. Mr. Attorney, read your statement into the record. Thank you.
This, excuse me. The city of Homestead's proposed operating millage rate is 5.9604 mills, which is the same as the previous year's millage rate of 5.9604 mills. And the proposed voted debt millage rate is 0.2446
mills. The roll back millage rate is 5.4129 mills. The proposed operating millage rate of 5.0 0 5.9604 ms is 10.11% above the roll back rate of 5.4129
>> msatch. >> Do we set a stopwatch now or no? >> Uh the city manager, you don't have any opening remarks. If not, we can get into the >> I thought we beginning with the mill rate first before getting into the budget. Yes. Okay. All right. So, tab
one, >> Mr. Furl. >> Tab, excuse me. Tab one is a resolution of the city council of the city of Homestead, Florida, establishing a proposed operating millage rate of advalorum taxation and establishing a proposed millage rate for debt service
on the general obligation bonds for the fiscal year beginning October 1st, 2025 and ending September 30th, 2026. >> Do we have a motion to approve tab 1? Move it. >> Moved by Councilman Roth, seconded by Vice Mayor Fletcher.
Is there anyone here from the public wishing to speak on the establishment of the millage rate for the ensuing fiscal year? Okay. I'll close the public hearing then and we'll ask for a roll call vote adopting the military.
>> Councilman Cannibal? >> Yes. >> Councilman Davis? Yes. >> Councilman Roth. >> Yes. >> Councilwoman Bailey. >> Yes. >> Councilwoman Abul. >> Yes. >> Vice Mayor Fletcher. >> Yes. >> Mayor Lawson. >> Yes. >> The motion carried. >> And now we'll do the discussion on the budget.
>> So, Mr. Mayor and Council, it's been a busy year for the great city of Homestead. Over the last fiscal year, the city has worked diligently on several critical initiatives. This afternoon, it gives me great pleasure to provide a brief recap of
several accomplishments made throughout the last fiscal year. Earlier this year, council adopted the city of Homestead's first strategic plan. The plan outlines five strategic priority areas, and we have aligned those accomplishments in accordance with
our strategic priority areas. Within the engagement priority area, mayor and council have defined who we are as a city and as a community with official taglines for those who don't remember in Homestead in the great city of Homestead, the future lives here. The
council and mayor has also approved a mission statement, a vision statement and five strategic core value areas that the acronym translates into real respect, ethics, accountability and leadership. We have expanded our media
presence. In fact, we have increased our social media impressions by over 7 million unique impressions. Wow. We've launched the city's first digital newsletter, Homestead Insider. On a monthly basis, we share this publication with over 8,000 uh recipients. Under the
leadership of mayor and council, we've negotiated a successfully a 275 million capital investments for the redevelopment of the Homestead Regional Park. We launched the city's America 250 branding initiative in celebration of
this great country's 250th birthday to improve internal communications and enables staff to access city resources. We've launched an employee hub to provide a forum for residents and businesses to provide us feedback. We've launched the conversation with the
community which includes public meeting series as part of ongoing charge to make the city a place not only to live but also to play. The city has hosted over mod 39 special events just this fiscal year for the first time with the
introduction of five constitutional officers by Miami date county. uh we've enabled most of them to visit with the city of Homestead with periodic programs and events to address our unique challenges as well as provide resources
making them accessible to city residents on the quality of life front of the strategic priority area. Uh we've expended we've secured more than $ 1.5 million in grant dollars through the Homestead Police Department and also parks recreation and open spaces
projects through the AIP program. We have completed five arts in public places installations, seminar buildings, light feature within this fiberium, the water tower, chrome statute as well as mobile water features.
For the first time, the city of Homestead was a recipient of a federally funded ship dollars. The city is receiving $374,963 with count with council approval. We've already funded, we've obligated and approved 854,000 in APA funding to
quality of life projects by December of 2024. And we have made 1.8 million project investments towards improving our park systems and our able and indivctible police chief and his department has
launched a crime suppression team. As we know, infrastructure is a critical priority for the growing city of Homestead. Uh the city was able to secure more than 9.3 million in grant dollars that has been assigned to
infrastructure projects. And we're happy to report that on on my assumption of office, I made a pledge to mayor and council to revitalize and bring back the functionality of the great pump station 22 with an innovative bypass program. and we successfully removed the pump
station from absolute moratorium enabling more than 16 businesses to come back to connection and open doors in the city. In collaboration and coordination with the city's lobbies, the city was able to secure additional $1.2 million
in state appropriations for water main replacements as well as for the enhancements to Southwest 152nd Avenue Bridge. With council approval, $9.2 $2 million in APA funding was obligated to quality of life projects meeting the
deadline of December 2024 imposed by the federal government and we've completed $2.4 million in capital projects within public works department as well as our energy department working successfully to getting completed about $3.9 million in capital projects. We've made
significant pro progress in setting up a template in development several critical infrastructure master plans. Uh council in the next one week, we'll be having a workshop on the transportation master plan. Uh the consultants are working very hard to complete the water and
sewer master plan as well as the storm water master plan. These are what we consider foundational documents for enhancements of city infrastructure improvement and to manage growth. In coordination with the Miami date county, we were able to complete the
installation of the center gates traffic lights at Alex Muko as well as Southwest 152nd Avenue intersection. On the economic development path, we've done extensively well. Flanigans is coming to Homestead with the development of a of a
new art uh site at the 2.4 acre land at the old city hall site. We've successfully received an okay status on pump station 22 as I previously said as well as we are working on finalizing a development agreement with the CRA for
the triangle properties with a land swap with the county contractor. I'm happy to report that with the designation of the greater homestead region as what we call a homestead spaceport designation by the governor a contractor and aerospace
mobile uh manufacturer is coming to homestead they've signed a lease and they're processing per in order to enhance their buildout area within the park of commerce area and second contractor and manufacturer is also in talks already with us and the county
looking for locations of more than 20,000 square ft for them to locate to Homestead. These will be bringing in high paying quality jobs to the city of Homestead and we've completed a trolley efficiency study and we're now actively working on optimization of the recommendations.
When I joined the city of Homestead about 16 months ago, my commitment to council and mayor and the greater Homestead community was to elevate and professionalize our workforce. I'm proud to report that we continue to make significant strides and internal operations. We've updated our city
ordinances and we're working on general code issues in terms of bringing it up to date and up to standards. We've re revamped the code compliance chapter. We've established minimum education and professional requirements for our city
staff. And in a few weeks, we will be launching the city's online permitting licensing and code compliance solution. This will be a change in the home in the city homestead in terms of how we do business in terms of
how applicants, developers, and contractors will be able to process their permits. We are going to replace our paperbased application process with a new applicant tracking and recruitment platform. We've launched with happiness and great
pride the Homestead Community Development and Human Services Division and implemented social services initiatives for our residents. This past Saturday on September 6, the city hosted its first ever health and wellness fair
which was successful, received accolades from many of the folks who visited us at FICO Williams Park and we also have revamped the city's homestead care program. Again, we've made life easier for city residents. Now, you can come to city hall or any of our activation
centers if you have need to review, revise, update, renew, or obtain brand new driver's licenses with the flow program. The city class office has been designated as a passport office based on work that the city manager's office has accomplished during this past one year
and also to establish standard operating procedures. We've initiated administrative policies and producers development process. We will continue to work in thisstead. We have launched a new GIS application portal that
comprises a strategic plan display online for those who want don't want hard copies. Now folks in Homestead can access the city website for city council iterative map. If you go there, select council member name, it will show you
the boundaries of the district, the code enforcement office assigned to that district and additional information. You don't have to make phone calls to get those information. Now you can simply get them online and also we have parks and recreation system map viewer, the
HPS energy outage map. If there's no light, if there's any outage in your area, you can go online using your cell phone and know what the area coverage of the outage is and the homes that are involved. And the city of homestead compliance zones and assign officers are
usually updated as changes are made and we are working on zoning and land use map as well as well as the solid west schedule. Thank you Mr. mayor and council for giving us the privilege and the support that we need in working with you in getting some of these initiatives
off the ground. I am going to pause while I'm asked my friend and colleague Mr. Carlos Perez, the finance and budget director to give us a synopsis on a high level of the city's proposed budget for
fiscal year 26. Mr. Resa. >> Good evening, mayor and council and residents of the city of Homestead. Tonight's presentation will provide an overview of the fisc year 2026 proposed budget as well as the proposed mill rate used to develop the general funds
proposed budget. In preparing the fiscical year 2026 proposed budget, the city faced several key challenges that shaped our priorities. Capital improvement projects addressing long overdue projects to strengthen storm water, electric, water, sewer, and
public facilities. The focus is on resiliency, fiscal discipline, and transparent reporting to build community trust, economic mobility, and downtown revitalization. Driving targeted investment in business growth in downtown Homestead while
aligning with regional strategies. Expanding tourism offerings such as cultural arts, seasonal events, and discover Homestead to boost the local economy. Rebranding and marketing. Launching a citywide campaign that reflects Homestead's authentic identity.
Balancing smalltime charm with a modern forward-looking brand that attracts residents, businesses, investors, and visitors. operational and staffing needs. Managing rising costs by leveraging grants, partnerships, and innovative funding, investing in staff
resources and professional development to foster collaboration, innovation, and a culture of service. This proposed budget represents a balanced approach to meeting citywide operational needs achieved without raising the millage rate through the
collective efforts of staff and council. The presentation will focus on the following areas of the budget. The general fund overview, analysis of the general funds fund balance, listing of proposed signature special events,
citywide overview, citywide CIP projects overview, staffing enhancements, proposed millage rate, and a recap. Now, let's look at the general fund budget overview. Property taxes for the city are a result
of two components, property values and the millage rate, also referred to as the tax rate. Property values are assessed by the county, not the city. The Miami Date County Property Appraisers Office is responsible for assessing property values.
The city assesses the mill rate, which represents the amount to be paid for every $1,000 of a property's taxable assessed value. It is important to note that the operating millage that included approximately $2.4 million in unspendable tax revenues offset with an
equal amount of contingency. Then in October of 2024 when the Miami Date County Property Appraisers Office certified the revised values, we came before council to amend the budget down for the $2.4 million. This is an overview of the general funds
sources of revenues. Much of the discussion regarding the general funds budget involves property taxes, also known as advalorum taxes, which makes up just over 36% or 32.4 million of the funding sources for the proposed budget. The state shared revenues make up
approximately 18% of the general funds revenues. State shared revenues include municipal revenue sharing of $5.1 million. Community service tax includes 1.9 million and the halfsent sales tax makes up $8.6 6 million. Combined, these
account for $15.7 million. These are estimates provided by the state. Franchise fees includes $1.7 million in franchise fees being generated from the FPNL serviced areas of the city. Cost allocation to pilots, also referred to
as intergovernmental charges, are funds paid to the city primarily from the five enterprise funds for use of city services as a cost of doing business within the city. Together, these make up approximately 22% of the general funds revenues.
Fines and forfeitures, while only representing 2.3% of the general fund's revenue, does include $1.7 million in expected school zone speed violations, also referred to as red speed. Other taxes representing 6% of the total
funding sources include $1.3 million in local option gas tax referred to as logt which is used for streets, $1.9 million in pension pass through for insurance tax premiums collected and remitted to the police and firefighters pensions and
$1.9 million in utility service taxes. Other revenues represent just under 5% of the general fund's revenues and these includes rents, leases, and interest income on investments. In fiscal year 2026, the appropriation of fund balance represents 6.26%
representing one-time funding for several transfers out to other funds. As will be explained in upcoming slides, the following revenue sources are not included in this proposal. Solid Waste franchise fees, increased street permit revenues, uh, National League of Cities
Service Warranty Program revenues, and the sports complex VSGS year 1 lease payment of approximately $200,000 as these are uncertain revenues. Additionally, the city recent recently received $442,000 from the Speedway for
previous underpayments. Rather than appropriating these funds in the fiscal year 2026 budget, these will be used to replenish the fund balance. Here's an overview of the general funds budget by functions. Public safety represents just over 46% of the city's
general fund budget. Parks, recreation, and open spaces makes up 8.8% while planning and zoning and public works comprise 3% and 2.8% respectively. Code compliance represents 2.5% of the general funds budget. The
rest of the departments are general government making up 29.9% of the budget. Transfers to other funds at 6.8% for fiscal year 2026 include $400,000 portion of the debt service for the PTP
bonds of the multi-modal transit center project. $1 million transfer to the electric utility to give back some of the monies they contributed as budget stabilization funds to balance the general fund budget between fiscal year
2012 and fiscal year 2017. $3.2 million to the CIP fund, $2.8 million of this for general fund department CIP request and 400,000 as a grant match for the historic city hall. And finally, 1.378
million to the building service fund upon becoming a new enterprise fund. We recognized that in 2024, permit revenues exceeded departmental expenditures. After estimating indirect costs to the general fund, it was determined to transfer this amount to the building
services fund to help them set up their initial costs such as capital. Please note that the police budget is at $40.8 million. Well, property taxes without the library portion are only at approximately $30.8 million. Therefore,
property taxes only cover 75% of the police budget. This slide provides a side-by-side comparison of each general fund department's prior year adopted to current year proposed budget. Note that the building services has moved out of the general fund and into a new
enterprise fund, while innovation and technology department has been moved out as an internal service fund. As stated earlier in fiscal year 2025, upon being informed by the county of the issues with the property values, staff
made sure that the $2.4 million was deemed non-spendable in the fiscal year 2025 adopted budget. In October of 2024, when the county revised the certified values, staff brought forward a budget amendment to revise reduce the fiscal
year 2025 budget. Comparing the fiscal year 2026 proposed budget to the amended fiscal year 2025 budget, the increase is 12,658,236. The significant and notable changes in the general fund expenditure budget are
as follows. Across all departments, we have $2.5 million investment in new staffing. Later in the presentation, we provide the details of the new positions, which includes 23 new full-time positions and three part-time positions for the general fund.
$1.9 million increases in existing personnel costs for a 7% COLA to all employees. $419,000 increase to existing personnel costs for a change in pension plans by moving to the FRS in midyear fiscal year 2026.
$2.7 million increase for the net cost allocation from the new innovation technology internal service fund. $1.8 million reduction in the budget for the innovation technology department moving out of the general fund and $2.5 million reduction in the budget. 106,000 for the
general special election for the mayor and council. $10,000 increase to the mayor's youth council, $5,000 increase to the community relations board, $5,000 increase to SWAC, and $80,000 increase to the mayor and council's public relations accounts.
For public works, we have $50,000 for construction software, $10,000 for GIS software. for general administration, $236,000 for a new EOC division, including a mid-year staff edition, $120,000 in mass media marketing of an
winter wonderland as part of the holiday and homestead special event, $10,000 for a VA hospital groundbreaking, $1,000 for city hall semi quincentennial branding, $80,000 in advisory services,000
for a community health fair, and a small business summit, $20,000 for a medical facility project, and $434,000 maintenance, and $50,000 for sidewalk repairs. For the police department, $48,000 for
the body camera contract, which no longer has grant funding, $210,000 for the Shot Spotter, which no longer has grant funding, $156,000 for records management system. for code compliance, $13,000 for increased costs for the
special magistrate interpreters and lane recording. $25,000 for six cameras for illegal dumping and $33,000 for the body camera contract for code officers. For procurement, $28,000 for increased
professional services needed for year-end inventory. $61,000 for increased advertisement cost as they will not be responsible for all ads related to procurement services, RFPs, ITBs, etc. For finance and budget, $95,000 for a financial statement prep
software to prepare the annual comprehensive financial report. $35,000 for services to digitize financial records and $36,000 for services to create a robust CIP book through OpenGV. for human services, $33,000
in enhancements to existing employee special events and some new ones including the International Women's Week for $5,000 and public service week for $10,000, $40,000 for increased citywide training and $32,000 for increased drug testing
and background screening. Special events. New events include $10,000 for ArtW Walk as part of Art Basil, $100,000 for the NASCAR 30-year anniversary and championship race, $391,000 for the operation of the ice
skating rink for the Holiday in Homestead's winter wonderland theme. Increases to existing events include $130,000 enhancements to the race to the fourth for the 250th celebration of our nation's independence. 39,000. On a
separate slide, we will provide a listing of all signature special events by funded level proposed at the budget workshop and proposed changes for this hearing. Transfers. The most significant change
or increase in the fiscal year 2026 budget is $5.75 million in transfers out to other funds that were discussed in an earlier slide. These increases include $1 million to the electric utility, $2.8 8 million and $46,000 to the CIP fund
for new general fund department CIPs and for a grant match respectively and $1.3 million for the building services fund. Other finally there is an increase in contingency of $446,000 primarily to offset the red speed
violation revenues since these may be delayed in being recognized and are not expected to be recurring at the initial year's level. Other net reductions across all departments of $352,000 account for the two $12.6 million change
in the budget for the general fund. Comparing the proposed fiscal year 2026 general fund budget to the fiscical year 2025 amended budget, there is an increase of 12.6 million. This increase is covered by an increase in funding sources of the same amount. The
increased revenues are primarily due to increases in certain major revenue and funding sources shown on the slide. Property tax is the city's main source of source of revenues and increased property values and new construction at existing millid rate will generate $3.8 million in additional revenues for the
city. One significant revenue source fiscal year 2026 is $1.7 million in expected school zone speed violations, also known as red speed. Because this may be delayed in implementation and because this level of fines may not be recurring, we have offset this with an
increase of $446,000 to contingencies. Conversely, a significant reduction in revenues is a reduction of $2 million for permit fees. This is a source of revenue for building services, which is being reported as a new and separate enterprise fund in the fiscal year 2026
proposed budget. The most significant funding source for fiscal year 2026 is $5.4 million in appropriation of fund balance, which is explained in an earlier slide. This is being used to cover $5.75 million in one-time type of
expenditures or transfers to other funds. Because of the $5.4 million use of fund balance for one-time type expenditures and transfers, it is important to discuss a general funds fund balance as part of this budget's process. To that end, the next three slides are dedicated
to the general funds fund balance. This slide reminds us that pursuant to city ordinance 2004-09-36, the city requires a required fund of the general funds adopted budget. For fiscal year 2025, that reserve requirement is
7,793,655. For fiscal year 2026, based on a proposed budget of $88.2 $2 million. The reserve requirement will be 8,822,252, an increase of 1,28,597. The Government Finance Officers Association, also known as the GFOA, has
issued a best practice guideline of fund balances for the general fund. The GFOA recommends that municipalities maintain unrestricted fund balance of no less than two months of operations. This translates to 17% of the general funds budget. The recommendation goes on to
explain that these reserves should be prohibited as a funding source for ongoing recurring expenditures, but that use for one-time non-recurring items like capital would be appropriate. At September 30th, 2024 for our audited
financial statements, the general fund had a $38 million unrestricted fund balance. This included 10% required reserve of $6.9 million for fiscal year 2024. In addition to the $111,000 used to fund the initial year of the home fund, the
city used $2.6 million of fund balance million for permitting and $500,000 for the ice rink purchase. All these were done through council approved budget amendments. The ordinances are noted on this slide. In
fiscal year 2026 budget, we are proposing the use of $5.5 million for one-time expenditure transfers. As discussed earlier, assuming the proposed budget is approved, the projected unrestricted fund balance for 930 2025
is $30.5 million, which represents 35% of the fiscical year 26 proposed budget. This is twice the amount recommended by GFOA. One of the items being funded through the use of general funds fund balance is approximately $2.7 million in transfers
to the CIP fund to fund capital requests from various general fund departments. The next two slide identifies these capital needs and the requesting department. To summarize, this includes one new vehicle for the planning and zoning department for the new zoning inspector position, one pallet jack for
the procurement department's inventory warehouse, $100,000 in improvements to create a training room for employees requested by the city manager. For general services, the requests include facilities improvements of $198,000 for work at the police station, $28,000 for
a conversion of storage area to for expanded offices for the finance and budget department, $38,000 for the refurbishment of the seminal theater marquee, $35,000 for seating at the Cyparium. Equipment and vehicular needs totaling $293,000 includes the purchase
of three facility maintenance vehicles, the purchase of a lit for the use at city hall chambers, and a fence painting machine. Police equipment and vehicle capital needs include $1.1 million for six vehicle replacements, including five
Explorers and one Tahoe, replacement of five ATVs, replacement of 12 rapid IDs, and the RMS CAD system replacement. For code, we have the replacement of two vehicles for parks, recreation, and open spaces. CIPs include the replacement of
two vehicles, the replacement of four riding lawnmowers, restroom re refinishing at Wickcock Park, a restroom conversion to storage at Harris Field, lights at JD Red Tennis and Raetball Courts, a picnic shelter replacement at
Angelo Mista Park, pavilion improvements at Harris Field, and court reservicing and playground refurbishment at Ruby George Park. Total CIPs requested by general fund departments total $2.7 million and are funded through a transfer from the general fund. These
are just the CIPs for the general fund departments. In a later slide, we will see an overview of all CIPs funded for fiscal year 2026. This slide shows the budget for the city's signature special events. For fiscal year 2026, all signature special
events have been moved into a new special administration department. The table reflects three new requests for fiscal year 2026. These include the ice skating rink operations for the holiday in Homestead's winter wonderland, the art
walk in connection with Art Basle, and the NASCAR 30-year anniversary and championship race. The race for the fourth event is being enhanced for 200 for the 250th celebration of America's independence. There are some adjustments to other events both in dollars and names with all special events totaling
$1,196,000 for fiscal year 2026. We have seen an overview of the general fund. Now, let's look at an overview of the entire citywide budget. This pie chart reflects the components of the enterprise funds. These funds are
intended to be self-sufficient and rely on user fees to balance their budgets. The electric utility makes over 59% of the enterprise funds. For fiscal year 2026, the solid waste budget has been balanced with a rate increase of 4.88%
representing the CPI increase. For 2026, water and sewer budget has been balanced with a proposed rate increase of 8% in lie of the annual CPI. The proposed rate increases also include 2.81% 81% increase on water consumption and 13% increase on the sewer consumption
representing the Miami date county pass through rate increases for the purchase of water and the treatment of sewer. These will be a separate core item for council consideration at tonight's budget hearing pursuant to state statutes. The electric utility reflects a reappropriation of $6.6 million of
remaining FMPA loan proceeds for three capital projects to be continued completed in fiscal year 2026. In fiscal year 2021 and fiscal year 2022, the electric utility secured loans in excess of $12 million to invest in capital projects to improve the capacity,
resiliency, and redundancy in Homestead's electric grid. In fiscal year 2024, the city secured an additional bank loan for $5.1 million for the new substation project. These projects are currently underway and will provide the capacity to serve future projected electrical demand growth as
well as hardening the electrical grid to better withstand the effects of severe weather. For fiscal year 2026, the storm water utility budget has been balanced with a rate increase of 78% which is approved by council earlier this year. The additional revenues will provide
funding to address capital infrastructure needs to be identified upon the completion of the storm water survey and master plans. For fiscal year 2026, building services was moved out of the general fund and created into a new enterprise fund that is expected to be self-sufficient using permit fees as its
primary funding source. Their budget increase approximately $ 1.9 million as a result of new staffing, capital needs, and a cost allocation back to the general fund. Electric utility debt service fund reports the debt service for electric utility loans while the utilities replacement renewal and
improvements fund reflects a transfer of 1.5 million to fund CIPs in the electric utility. This pie chart shows the citywide budget broken down by fund types. The general fund makes up just over 26% of the city's budget while the enterprise funds
make up 50.3% of the budget. Please remember that this proposed budget excludes CDBG home and other grants as those budgets are approved by resolution upon acceptance of the grants. Additionally, excluded is the ARPA funding that is also being
treated as a grant. As of December 31st, 2024, all ARPA funds had been committed to projects and all funds must be expended by December 31st of 2026. I would like to point out that unused funds for certain capital related projects will be brought forth to the council for reappropriation and
amendment of the fiscal year 2026 budget at the November 2025 council meeting. The most notable significant highlights of the citywide budget are reflected in this slide. $36 million for capital improvement projects, $3.3 million in
employee colas, $861,000 for a mid-year transition to the FRS, $4.8 $.8 million in new personnel costs, $7.2 million in new fund allocations from the innovation and technology internal service fund, $2.4 million in
increases to all other internal service funds, $46,000 transfer to CIP for a grant match, $1.3 million transfer to the building service fund, 300, and $643,000
in enhanced and new special events. This slide reflects a comparison of citywide fiscal year 2025 adopted budget with the fiscal year 2026 proposed budget. The general fund as well as the enterprise funds have been discussed in earlier slides. The capital improvement
fund also known as the CIP fund accounts for all general fund departmental CIP requests which were presented on slides 19 and 20. Notable highlights for the remaining funds are as follows. for the CRA fund reflects higher tiff revenues from rising property values. Fiscal year
2026 tiff is budgeted at $6.6 million. 2.9 of this 2.9 million of this from the Miami date county and $3.7 million from the city plus $6.6 million from prior year fund balance. A detailed CRA budget presentation was provided to you earlier
tonight. For the PTP fund, it includes $4.9 million in fiscal year 2026 transportation search tax revenues and $2.6 million in reappropriated prior year funds for the impact P fund. This reflects projected 2026 revenues of $2.3
million and $9.24 million in reappropriated funds. Funding supports CIP projects, some of which are set aside as contingency. The innovation technology department. It's now reported as an internal service fund to centralize services, streamline
operations, and improve efficiency and cost savings over time. Fiscal year 2026 increases include IT related cost transfers from other departments, new staffing, capital needs, and new initiatives. Other internal service funds include the health insurance,
self- insurance, workers compensation, customer service, and fleet management funds. Despite some premium reductions, overall increases to all funds reflect operational needs, staffing, and capital. We have looked at an overview of the
citywide budget. Now, let's take a look at the citywide CIP projects for fiscal year 2026. These following slides present a recap of the city's capital improvement projects. These are projects that required funding in fiscal year 2026. It does not include projects
previously funded in a prior year. for water and sewer projects include $10.3 million for two projects expected to be funded with a loan. The two projects include water and sewer improvements on Chrome Avenue and Flaggler Avenue. Additional funding for these projects include $625,000 in state appropriations
and $3.7 million from a PAS settlement received in 2025. The total cost for these projects are estimated at $6.8 million for Flaggler and $13.1 million for Chrome during fiscal year 2025. Over $2 million in funding for these projects
came from Harpa and the CRA. The $6.9 million in electric utility projects include 930,000 annual recurring projects along with another 5 million $5.9 million for 26 other capital projects. These projects include $2
million for electrical infrastructure for new construction, $56,000 for AMI meters for new development, and $500,000 for the Redland substation expansion. During the year, the utility will be working on three significant projects funded with loans. These projects
include the new Donnie Avocado substables for customer service and $1.4 million for customer service and $1.4 million for innovation and technology. The $1.4 $4 million includes phase two of the citywide computer and network switch replacements, completing upgrades
to the council chamber AV systems, and upgrades to the citywide camera surveillance system. Transportation and transit equipment and streets and sidewalk improvements include projects funded primarily with LOGT and PTP funds. In addition to $958,000 in annual
recurring projects, there are five other roadway improvement projects at different locations. Police Department includes $611,000 for new police vehicles funded with police impact fees. The new vehicles are for the new eight police officers proposed
to be hired in fiscal year 2026. Forfeiture monies of $86,000 are being used to fund ice machines, new furniture, dog. Other CIPs include 1 $1.1 million for vehicles and equipment already presented on slide 19.
Parks, Recreation, and Open Spaces Department has $360,000 in projects funded through parks impact fees, which include new pickle ball courts at the community center and pavilion improvements at Harrisfield. An additional $50,000 of CDBG funded
funding is allocated specifically for the pavilion improvements. Separately, $778,000 for equipment and other improvements was already presented on slide 19. The solid waste fund includes $500,000 for building renovations, $57,000 for
office furniture and $171,000 for the annual container replacements. The storm water fund includes $57,000 for storm water survey and master plan and $250,000 for a drainage improvement project on Southwest 157th Avenue.
Annual storm water projects include $75,000. $575,000 has been appropriated from art and public places fees for several murals, sculptures, and other proposed artwork.
Total CIP project values for $25 million represents over $3 million of these projects funded with a settlement, $675,000 funded with CDBG or other assistance, and $10.6 million expected to be
financed alone. A detailed listing of the fiscal year 2026 capital improvement projects as well as the fiscal year 2026 2030 5-year CIP plan Can