Start right now. I said 11. I said 6:15. >> I did. I I Oh, okay. All right, everyone. We're about to start our um our commission meeting, everyone.
>> All right, we got one, two, three, four. Commissioner Smuckler, Commissioner Sue, Commissioner Smith, Deputy Deputy Clerk, can you I'm going to start the meeting. All right. Good evening, everyone. I'm
going to start the um commissioner meeting for Tuesday, January 20th, 2026. Madame Clerk, can you please do the role? Commissioner Mackenzie Floramont >> here.
>> Commissioner Phyllis Smith >> Commissioner Danielle Jean >> here. >> Commissioner Lins Sue >> here. >> Commissioner J. Cerno >> here. >> Vice Mayor Fortuna Smuggler >> present. >> Mayor Michael Joseph.
>> I'm here. Next is invocation by Reverend Willie May Williams of the Greater Gibbs Chapel AM Church. Thank you Re. >> Good evening everybody. It's great to be here. Let us pray. Father, in the name of Jesus, we come
tonight thankful for another day's journey. Thankful for the protection you have given to us throughout this day, throughout this week. And we continue to pray for a successful week. I pray now that you bless this meeting tonight.
Clear hearts, clear minds, clear our thought process. Let everything happen decent and order. Bless every commissioner, bless the mayor, the staff, all that are present here tonight. And continue to bless every
person who is a part of this city, North Miami Beach. Guide all of us. Help us to live a life that's pleasing in your sight. This is my prayer. Amen. >> I pledge algiance to the flag of the
United States of America and to the stands one indivisible with liberty and justice for all. Number four, Madame Clerk, do we have any requests for withdrawals, deferments, or
additions? >> Oh, here you go. Good evening. Per the request of Commissioner Sue, a discussion item regarding charter title charter compliance under the council manager form of government will be added to the agenda and this will now be item
15.3 for the request of commissioner Jean. A discussion item titled protocol will be added to the agenda and this will be item 15.4 Four. For the request of the city manager's
office, a resolution 2026-11 will be added to the consent agenda titled accepting a grant award from FDLE Florida Department of Law Enforcement. That will now be item 9.14.
Per the request of Commissioner Sue, a resolution will be added under legislation titled Standing in Solidarity with Iran, which will now be item 11.6 per request of Commissioner Shernoff. An
item to appoint Naomi Blur to the planning and zoning board will be added under appointments for the request of Mayor Michael Joseph and Commissioner Shernoff. Um item 5.1 which is deciding on the voting process
regarding the city manager that will be moved down to be heard after 11.2 and um there's a discussion item which is 13.1 which is titled city manager selection
that will also be added to be heard at the same time >> at the end. No, >> not at the end. >> After 11.2 >> after 11.2. >> Yes. >> So after all the way at the end of the meeting. >> No.
>> Thank you. >> Go on. >> Those are the only changes we have here. >> Mr. Mayor, if I could be recognized for 11.1. Madame Clerk, if you can defer that to the next meeting, please. Um, okay.
>> It's a home base. >> Home base. >> Sorry, that's the wrong one. That's the wrong one. >> It's the sec. It's the second. Okay. >> Second one. The 11.2. >> So, you want to Okay. She wants to And also um table or um hold off that one till the next meeting. >> Just 11.2 please.
>> 11.2. Okay. >> Um Mr. Mayor, so we're going to do 11.1 and then do the appointment. >> Yes. That process both uh the the process as well as the the discussion on it. >> Okay. >> All right. >> No, I was going to suggest can we do it between the consent agenda and the
legislation? >> I just want to get past 11.1 and then we'll do it. We'll do basically it's going to go right after consent. It's going to like be right after. >> Yeah, it be right after consent. >> But we have I just want to get rid of that one of 11.2 because we just removed 11.2. >> Okay.
>> All right. So that those are the other ones. >> Yes. >> Yeah. We're taking it out. We're just supplanting it with the with the with the moving up of the management process. the picking and the process. >> That being said, >> picking and choosing >> picking picking and choosing. >> Next, >> mayor on the ones that are resolutions
that are added, you have to take a vote to add. >> Okay. So, as amended, >> do I have a motion? >> So, move. >> Second. All in favor say I. >> I. >> Now, let's vote as collectively on the amend on the amended um agenda set. So,
move. Do >> I have a second? >> All in favor say I. I. >> I. >> All right. Next item on the agenda is present uh not presentations open up for public comment. Madam clerk, good evening. The mayor and commission
of the city of North Beach has opened the meeting for public comment at this time. There is a threeminut time limit for each speaker. Speaker, when you're called to the podium, please state your name or the name of the organization which you are representing. The mayor and commissioner of the city of North Rain Beach recognizes the importance of
civility. The city of North Miami Beach requests that all in attendance to exercise civility towards each other. And our first two signers are Ezra Levy and then Daniel White Book. >> Senator,
>> thank you. >> Oh, before we start, >> I'll go with Commissioner >> um >> Vice Mayor. Vice May, I'd like to recognize Commissioner Bass from Opaaka >> and um Commissioner Turnoff. Oh, right
here. >> Senator Ron Silver. >> Second. >> Commissioner Trump, if you wanted to recognize Senator Silver. >> Senator Ron Silver. >> Yes. Uh we are esteemed to have Senator Ron Silver here who we have a facility named after him because of all the money
he got for North Miami Beach when he was senator. So, welcome Mr. Silver. Senator Silva. >> Thank you. >> Good evening. My name is Ezra Levy with the permission of the commissioners and the mayor. Thank you all very much. Miss Smith, my mom says hello.
>> It's good to see you. I've been a resident of North Miami Beach for 38 years proudly. Um I'm here tonight to speak for my full support um for Darvin Williams for the city manager position. Um I recently met Darvin only about eight months ago. I run a special ed
program have for the last 31 years here in this area. Um Darvin as many people found out about our organization through a friend of his um wanted to learn more about it and decided after learning about it how can I help and he asked us
what could what do you guys need? We spoke to him and on his own Darvin decided I'm going to run with you guys a fundraiser and we're going to touch parts of the community that you've never touched before. We all have our donors as organization. Darvin said, "I'm going to increase your circle. I'm going to
increase the people who know about your organization and who care for your organization. And what topic would you like to fund raise for?" And we decided to fund raise for a trip for children with developmental disabilities to go to Israel. He was very, very excited about the concept. And working together, he
put this entire fundraiser um here was actually in the city of North Miami Beach building. And it was a huge success. Not only did Darvin show amazing leadership. Darvin wanted to learn about a piece of the community he wasn't familiar with just by hearing that there was an organization that had
that need. And so he learned about it. He put his first foot forward. He brought his friends into the fold to teach them about it and did something good in the process. And that is what I hope the kind of leadership everybody in such positions can show. Let me learn what is needed around me. Let me ask
those around me, what do I not possibly know and how can I partner and help? And so leadership and partnership came to increase not only our community of friends and donors for my organization called Kesher, which is the special ed school, but also since it happened here
in this in this building, I can tell you firsthand that it increased the circle of North Miami Beach and those people who live in our area and the and the growth of the community. And so if that's just the first meeting that I had with Darvin, I can only imagine what he
would do for the city as city manager. And so he has my full support. Thank you so much again for your time this evening. I appreciate it. And have a good evening everybody. Thank you. Next speaker, >> Daniel White book. >> Good evening, everyone. My name is
Daniel Whiteook. >> Okay, I'm sorry. Uh, my name is Daniel Whiteitbook. I was born in North Miami Beach. I lived here most of my life and I'm here to speak on behalf of Darvin Williams. I met Mr. Williams a few years
ago at the city of Opalaka. I'm a business owner there for 33 years and Darvin was the city manager. I just want to say that in the time that I interacted with him, he was of the
utmost professional. He was concerned about the citizens of Opalaka and he tirelessly worked on behalf of their needs. He also had concerns to help out the business people in Opalaka.
In addition to helping out from when he started to when he left, the crime rate was down. The whole community was uh developed. Amazon moved in there. Um the the airport grew, a lot of construction
happened and the entire city of Opalaka improved while he was there. He when the flea market closed down, he organized efforts to save all of the jobs of the people in the Opalaka flea market so
they were able to uh relocate to another um location. So they all saved their livelihoods. Then he went to, I don't know, the state, someone, and got grants for all of these um vendors to be able
to receive money in order to start their business. So I was there when he presented a $1,000 check to all the vendors that had to be displaced. It helped them out tremendously. They also had um benefit of help on their um
fees that they had to pay the city. He's constantly working to help out the community, the police, and all in all he was an excellent city manager and I want to speak on his behalf. Thank you so much.
>> Next speaker, >> David Cole and then Mara Hawk. Can I go? >> Good evening, Mayor Joseph and commissioners. My name is David Cole. I am uh currently director for FIU After
School Allstars. Uh at the North Miami campus, the Biscane Bay campus. Uh I'm a lifelong uh resident of Miami Day County. Grew up here in North Miami. Our program currently serves over 6,000 students, many of whom go to North Miami Senior High. I've known Darvin Williams
for 12 years. He's part of my extended uh family circle. Um, but I want to talk about uh servant leadership. You know, we talk about people who tell it like it is. Uh Darvin takes it to the next level. He's not a person who just says uh what he means, he means what he says.
uh as someone who spent his childhood with family in Opalaka, I was amazed at how he was able um to not only secure some uh uh needed funds uh from a partner at Miami Day where I used to work uh to secure money that was owed to
them, but also take that money and bring it back to the city of Opalaka. I was amazed to see that when he saw the conditions of one of the housing units in Opalaka, he didn't just talk about it. He made sure that those residents uh were out of that area until they were able to find a safe um effective place
to live. Um because I know him personally, I have seen him really really fret over the needs of not only the people that you would represent uh in this great city, but the the the people uh themselves. He is a military man. He understands the rule of law. He
knows how to do great things and he knows how to do them compliantly. He knows how to do things effectively. He is as straight as an arrow and he will not brook any fools, but he is here to serve. I honestly, as someone who's been serving young people both K through 20,
uh, for the last 35 years in in the public sector both at FIU, uh, the Miami date county public schools and at Miami Dade and and understand that what we get to do as public servants is exactly that, serve. I cannot think of a better person to serve than Darvin Williams.
And I thank you guys for your time. Next speaker, >> Marahawk. Good evening everybody. Um, mayor and commissioners, my name is Ma Hawk.
I live in this city for over 30 years. I am here to express concerns regarding actions that may affect the proper separation of roles established under our city charter.
Reports of undue pressure or involvement in administr administrative matters raise serious question about adherence um to lawful governance
um and the protection afforded to the city staff in a council manager form of government polic This direction belong to the commissions while daytoday operation
must remain free from political influence. I respectfully ask this commission to review these concerns promptly openly and in full compliance
with Florida sunshine laws. Charter 286 which promotes transference and public confidence. The other issue is um this is one of the most concerning and consequential
decisions this commission will make. This is about the selection of the city manager. The city manager must select be selected based on experience, independence
and the ability to serve the entire city. No personal relationship or political convenience. This position should never be awarded because a candidate
is perceived as compliant or easily influenced. This city deserve a professional leader who will uphold the city charter and who
act in the best interest of its resident. free from undue pressure. I ask the commission again to proceed carefully, truthfully, and with
integrity. The future stab stability of this city depends on it. Thank you for your time. Next speaker,
>> Sona Sonia Frasier and then Jose Perez. Hello everyone. Good evening council team. Um, everyone in their respective places. My name is Sonia Frasier, owner of Gardener Soul Food, licensed caterer, Miami day brow
in this city. Some of you, okay, some of you may know me, some may not. I work closely with a lot of leaders in the community. Um, I'm partnered with a lot of people and I've learned the difference between
visibility and the service between people in who show up for you when it's easy and when it's hard. I'm here tonight to speak in support of Darvin Williams for the city manager's position because I've seen his character up
close. I met Darvin during one of the most difficultest times with my daughter against a battle with my own city. He didn't care. When we were in a real battle with the city, he came in moments when I needed him. He was consistent. He
listened and he stayed and he understood it. Darin showed up for other organizations that I've sent to him, 34 ways organizations when they couldn't get through with Opaaka. He stayed consistent with them until they found a solution on what they've been working
for for two to three years. He rode that battle with them. Whatever the situation was, they couldn't get through. I fought and I fought. I reached out to Darvin. He assisted them. Took a minute, but he got it done. All of this matters when you're looking for someone to run your
city. when it was my daughter when I couldn't get through with my own city that I paid my taxes for, he stood in the paint. Didn't matter who he was standing against and who it didn't matter who he was going against. So when you make them type of decisions, you look for the people that put people
before politics and do what's right. So I stand with Darren Williams. Thank you. Next speaker. >> Thank you. Hello. Hi guys. Uh, my name is Jose Perez. I'm the owner of Flaccos Championship Guidance as well as Flacos Community Gym. It's a boxing gym in Hollywood,
Florida. I'm a former resident of North Miami Beach. I lived in North Miami Beach from 1996 until 2006 when I moved to Cooper City. Uh I'm here to on behalf of uh Darwin Darwin Williams as a character reference. I met him in 2014
when I opened up my boxing gym. At the time he was a business consultant for my primary care physician and now councilwoman of uh North M uh Miami Gardens. Darvin has a special way of
taking what a creative mind wants to do, put it down on paper, logistics and infrastructure behind it, needed to create something special so that an organization can be successful at their philanthropic uh endeavors. So when I met Darvin
Williams, he was actually, like I said, he was the business consultant at the uh medical practice of uh Dr. Michelle Powell. Now, one of my ideas was during my book bag, I have a a book bag, an annual book bag giveaway, was to have
physicians present in order to do physicals for the at risk and in need youth of the community. He put that together. He made sure our insurance policies were behind us. He had the infrastructure again to put behind the creative abilities. Not only that, as
he's moved around and he became city manager of Opaaka, I followed him, became friends with him and anywhere I could, I've tried to partner with him because his heart is so big and his mind is so great at putting these things together. I'm always looking to help. As
I said, my personal nonprofit business is to mentor and guide the atrisisk and in need in need youth population. He is the perfect person that I would recommend. He stands tall. He puts his brain behind his muscle and he'd be an
asset to any team he was going to join. Thank you. >> Next speaker, >> Irene Pelinger and then Christine Snuggrove. Good evening. My name is Irene Pillinger. I've been a resident for
almost 40 years now. Um, I find myself questioning the wisdom of having a strong city manager form of government if members of the commission view the manager not as an expert in their field, but as a personal emissary. When
commission members attempt to have their personal lack in place, the city and residents lose. Our taxes pay for salaries and services. We pay the price of mismanagement. Thank you to those who participated in
the two well-run, orderly, and informative workshops to interview city manager candidates. The videos of these meetings were promptly posted on the city website. I was disappointed not to be able to see the Zoom interviews with
the mayor in real time. I emailed the city clerk on Thursday, January 8th, noting that while the workshop videos were available, there were still no videos or transcripts of the Zoom interviews conducted by the mayor. I received a phone call on that Friday
advising the videos were available, but in a separate place from where the workshop videos were posted. I started watching the recordings. My initial reaction was that they were are visually weird and nothing like any Zoom
recording I have ever seen. The images of the participants are tiny. Images and videos of the city were added and take up three quarters of the screen. It was so annoying. But then I thought, why am I watching this at all? This one member
of the commission who did not participate in the workshops with their colleagues created this odd situation. Posting strangely formatted Zoom call videos where you can barely see the participants just so you can claim
transparency of process does not qualify as transparency. I thought, why am I wasting my time watching this? When I sat through two nights of interviews and was able to evaluate the candidates from these public workshops, I ended up not wasting
too much of my time on the mayor's interviews. We have some impressive candidates with proven track records at turning around failing cities. I know who I want in the position and
hope that the commission acts wisely and in the interest of the residents. I personally haven't met Darvin Williams, but he is the person who impressed me most through this process and I feel he's the person who can best manage our
budget, our staff, and our politicians. And hearing these speakers tonight just makes me feel better and validates my opinion. So I hope that the residents win tonight. >> Next speaker.
>> Good evening, mayor and commissioners. My name is Christine Sngrove. I'm a resident of North Miami Beach. I'm here tonight because many residents are deeply concerned about the direction our city is heading and the decisions being made behind these seats. We are not here to attack individuals. We are here
because we care about our city and are demanding transparency, accountability, and respect. The selection of our next city manager is one of the most important decisions this commission will make. Given the instability, turnover, and controversy surrounding city hall in
the recent years, it is imperative that this process be handled openly and professionally, residents strongly believe that the next city manager must come from outside city hall. And internal selection only continues to um I'm sorry, only continues the same culture and problems that are currently
failing us. We are also concerned by what appears to be lack of transparency in how decisions are made. Whether it involves contracts, spending, travels, or leadership choices. When residents are left questioning motives, trust is lost. And once trust is gone, it's very
hard to rebuild. Public comment is not a nuisance. It is not formality. It is how residents participate in their government. When residents show up consistently, ask questions, and raise concerns, it should be seen as a civic engagement. not something to dismiss or just ignore. We are asking that the
commission that this commission actually remember who you work for. You were elected to be the representative and the rep to represent the cities of North Miami Beach, not personal interest, not political alliances and not insiders. Tonight, we are asking for a fair, open,
and transparent city manager selection process. Leadership chosen on merit, not familiarity. respect for resident input, decisions made by the best interest in the entire city and of the entire city. We are watching. We will continue to
show up and we will expect better because North Miami Beach deserves better. I too am for Darvin Williams. >> Thank former Commissioner Barbara Kramer and then Trisha Harris.
Good evening. I'm Barbara Kramer. Tonight is another crossroads for our city and I hope you are prepared to take the high road at this juncture. There is so much important work to be done in North Miami Beach. I know many of you are working on legislation you care
about and want to see move forward on this day. But at the same time, there are serious and unresolved concerns that cannot be pushed aside. Public records requests are being delayed. Information is not forthcoming. There are reports of
interference and administrative authority and conduct that may raise concerns related to public records or procurement laws. Most troubling, I am hearing that this environment has pushed experienced, capable staff to consider leaving. In
fact, someone right now has about one foot out the door. It's especially troubling to hear that some of this may be occurring with the acting city manager's knowledge, and I recognize that acting in this role presents unique challenges. However, when senior
leadership does not intervene or elevate concerns, employees can be left believing that complying with improper direction is expected just to protect their jobs. Whether intentional or not, that outcome is unacceptable in a lawful
and professional government. Frankly, this is deeply troubling and it's damaging to our city. This is why North Miami Beach needs a strong city manager. Not just strong in the language of our charter, but strong in practice. Someone who will not be intimidated by
unprofessional behavior from anyone. Someone who treats each of you equally. Someone who leads employees with integrity, supports them when they are doing the right thing, and respects the individual nature of your legisl legislative roles
so that together you can function as one governing body for the people. From my perspective, the city is operating in an environment of dysfunction, confusion, and decline declining public trust. I do not believe that this will change unless an
independent city manager from outside city hall is appointed. Hiring from within or preserving the existing structure sends a message that the status quo is acceptable. Many residents, including myself, are not asking for convenience or familiarity.
We are asking for accountability, reform, and leadership that restores confidence in the city. This decision will shape the culture of city hall, hopefully for years to come. I urge you to choose independence, professionalism, and long-term health of North Miami
Beach. The public is watching, and we expect you to meet this moment. Thank you. >> Next speaker, >> Trisha Harris. Good evening everyone. My name is Trisha Harris. I am here for two reasons. I
hope that everybody chooses the right manager. I'm not going to go into detail because everybody has already spoken and they've said some good words up here tonight. But my other situation, I wanted to thank the police department sincerely.
Um, you know, unaware to some of the residents in Highland Village, they are in there. Even though I get calls all the time that they never see them, but recently they took out a bad person or persons from our neighborhood and everybody was like, "How did they know
what was going on?" I said, "Well, I guess they're doing their job and you're unaware of it." So, I wanted to thank the police department very much for the incident where some bad people were removed from Holland Village. Thank you and have a good evening and I hope that
everyone behaves themselves tonight during this very detailed subject. Have a good night. Thank you. Next speaker, >> Senator Ron Silver. >> Mr. Silver is next. Mr. Kaz.
>> Mr. Who? >> Senator Silver. >> Oh, >> I'll still leave my camera there for you. I guess that's the applause for me being able to make it up here. Yes, sir.
>> Uh I am Senator Ron Silver. Longtime person here. I think looking around I'm probably been here longer than anybody else. I go all the way back to 1961. So, but I it was a privilege for me.
>> It was a privilege for me to represent this area in the Florida legislature for 24 years. And uh I'm here in a little bit of that capacity just to let you know a couple
of issues that uh have come up in the legislature which I think is important. First one was the issue on the ability lowering the age of being able to get a rifle from 21 to 18.
Right now, if you're 21 years or younger, you can't go and get a rifle. And that is was because of the Parkman shooting. And I would hope that we lend some support to our folks to the
north about their loss that they occurred and hopefully we can uh kill that bill. It's passed the House. It's over in the Senate. The Senate President has indicated that the last two or three years they have not taken
the bill up and I don't think they will take the bill up. But it's important that if you feel strongly about this issue that you send a letter to the Senate President telling him how important it is for you not to pass this
bill that the House passed. So that's that's one issue. The other issue is a petition is being considered in Miami Day County to recall the mayor. I uh believe the mayor has done an
outstanding job. I don't think it we should uh deal with that issue. It's going to cost a lot of money to to deal with it and she won by an overwhelming margin. So that's up to you, but I just want to let you know that I think she's done an outstanding job.
That's what I got. Just to let you know. Thank you. >> Thank you, Senator. >> Thank you. Next speaker. Commissioner Bass's office. >> A pleasant good evening to everyone. I am Dr. Cherylene Bass and I'm going to leave it as that. Those of you have
heard what those who came before me said about Mr. Williams. God has blessed me with the ability to departize my life in every aspect. friend or no friend. If you're wrong, I will tell you you're wrong. And if you're right, I will tell you that you're right. I just want to point out a few accomplishments that Mr.
Williams um succeeded in being the manager in the great city of Opalaka. It had been decades when one of our major commercial water c customers basically refused to pay their water bill. We had
gone through several city managers. No one was able to touch that. With Mr. Williams leadership, he was able to bring all parties to the table and secure a $1 million payment to the city of Opalaka. Decades in the making, no one was able
to do it. Mr. Williams also proposed an executive um an ex he executed as watertorm drainage plan. Everybody knows that Opalaka was always underwater. His leadership again were no longer constantly underwater.
He brought something to us where we were able to support and finance. I'm going to go off what I'm off on my paper because speaking from the heart for me is mostly what's best. You will not make a mistake
by bringing Mr. Williams on as a part of your family. If it was up to me, he would have never left because I've seen the growth that took place in my neighborhood, my streets, our businesses, and every area that you can think of within the city of Opalaka. If
you were to ride around in Opalaka right now, you would know that somebody was there who made a difference. Mr. Williams, during our 99 findings that I'm sure that you all know about, we were able to clean up the majority of them. 99
findings. 99. we were able to to clean him up to the place where we are maybe two steps away from being under oversight. This is very important for me to share with you. Mr. Williams is a man of integrity, transparency, and he can
get the job done. And not only that, under his leadership to surplus millions of dollars in surplus. Everybody talked about his character, but not what I'm talking about. But I need I just thought that it was important for you to know he's not just a decent person. I've seen
him cried literally cried with residents laugh with residents because he knows his humble beginnings. Mr. Williams is able to get the job done. I I beg you, like I said before, if I could, I would take him back to
Opalaka, but I can't. Thank you. >> Thank you. Next speaker, >> Daniel Pierre. >> Yes, I would like to say hello to every commission, everybody here tonight. My name is Daniel Pierre. My address is
15240. Northeast 10 court. Yes. Tonight I am very happy. Tonight I am coming here tonight for me to speak
to my all my residents, my neighborhood just like I used to. I look at every one of you. Everybody looking good. So tonight make sure I need before I I go home I need to be
happy. So 30 years I've been living here. More than 30 years I'm always coming to the m all way coming here to speak about my neighborhood
all time. I'm always here. I see a lot of thing come up to the city. People come in, they go, people come in, they go. This time we need
the city manager who care for everyone who live in the city. We need the city manager who provide the service for every residents not for one side.
Everybody we have to get something. So the reason I'm here I'm I don't come in here to mention people name the commission we choose we put you here for us to work
for us to work together you sit down here you have to make good decision that's the reason why we go I would to vote for you to bring you to the chair and I
please make sure we make the good choice for the city. We need somebody who could look out for everyone
who work hard in the city. All these people who do all this crazy work outside, rain, is it bad weather? All the people coming to work every day. We need somebody to hear about those people to
look out for them, not to look for one side. I need the city Malad could look for everybody because that's my duty here. So anyone you choose tonight. So when I here this the people working
outside component they got a problem the way they treat them. So they will call me I will coming back here. Please make the good choice. Make the good choice for us. Then everybody will be happy. So anyway, so
I'm so happy. I'm look at you do the best. All right, Daniel. Yeah. >> Next speaker, >> Terrence Commulie and then Kley Jim. Good evening, commissioners, city manager, city clerk, city attorney. My
name is Terrence TC Kemani. I've been a resident of NMBB for 33 years. I'm here tonight to speak about a few things that I find needs attention in the city. First, I spoke a few months ago about the condition of the sidewalks in the Sunray West area. There are many cracked
and broken sidewalks along Northeast 16th, 17th, and 18th Avenues between 169th Street and 173rd Street. Some of them have been half-hazardly repaired with a layer of light cement or asphalt. I feel like the neighborhood's
appearance is going downhill as part of this, and this is going to affect property values of my home and other homes in the neighborhood, which can result in lower revenue for the city because the taxes are a percentage of the property values. When I was on the beautifification committee years ago and
chairman for two years, we communicated directly with a representative of public works who attended each meeting as well as a code enforcement. The communication resulted in awareness of issues throughout the city and small issues that were taken care of pretty quickly. I am hoping with this year being the centennial of the city, we can move
forward and make the city of NMB, like a previous acronym that was used, now more beautiful. Secondly, I need to address the pickup of waste in the city by coastal. When walking my two dogs, they like to chase bikes and scooters. I use the alleys to
avoid having bad interactions with people. The alleys have a lot of areas where bulk pickup is not completed properly with debris being left behind. What kind of communication is happening from Coastal to the city? So, residents are advised by the city that the trash is being placed in an unsafe area and
cannot be picked up. Things that make it unsafe for them is being under a power telephone lines running to the properties from the poles. If the truck were to hit the lines, they can knock them down and kill the power to the house as well as cause a charge to the truck that can injure the driver employee. Also, residents need to know
that they need to rake, sweep, and basically clean up the small pieces that cannot be picked up by the bucket truck. The alleys are a mess and need attention when the budget allows it. Thirdly, with the construction of the old North Nova Southeastern property,
I thought the traffic was supposed to be only going down 167th Street to 19th Avenue. I am seeing trucks coming up 17th Avenue to 172nd Street, not 171st, but 172nd Street and turning into going
westbound to 15th Avenue. These trucks should not be doing that. I just need to know are they allowed to or if it was already written in the thing. Finally, I have a concern about the selection process of the city manager. The city manager is the one who manages and
directs the city department's employees. We were told it would be an open, transparent process, but I have seen that directives given haven't been followed. Once the permanent city manager is selected and sworn in, we can go back to the proper way of addressing issues by going through the manager just like you would with your other employees
like this city attorney and city commission, city clerk, excuse me. There should be no direct orders given by the city commissioners. We have a city commission city manager former government where the mayor and commission give directives that are approved by the majority vote. Thank you.
Next speaker. Okay. Good evening, mayor and commission. My name is Katie Jasher and I reside in the city of North Miami Beach. First, I would like to say my condolences to Elizabeth Pierre and the loss of her family member.
Okay, I'm here tonight. I made the effort to show up because it is very important for the ones of us that can make it show up and make our voice heard. The city manager um selection has
been uh I I'm really going to leave that alone. But I'm the type of person since I work for a large um >> Thank you. I'm not up to par tonight.
So, um we always believe in promoting from within. I've heard all the necessary um naysayers on why Miss Monestim should not um be the one that is appointed as
our city manager. Uh but if we really look carefully of uh all of our city managers that come through here uh the the things that have happened and I really want to thank each and single one of them they have put
their name on the list because this is a city that usually uh chew out the city managers and none of them ever really left in good standing including uh one of my favorite uh Mr. Scott, Esmin Scott. Uh, Miss Camo is also another
person who has great qualification in Kenana city. She was uh a CRA director and also was a city manager in uh North Miami. I really do believe in women. I
believe in the strength that we bring to um every aspect of everyday lives and the way we carry ourselves and I think these women are really qualified. I've heard about everyone that comes here talking about Mr. Williams and Mr.
Williams is qualified and army men and my daughter is a military person. I thank you for your service Mr. Williams. Mr. William is also qualified if you all decide after all the good accolades and everything. Mr. Williams is the one you
choose to um run our dayto-day lives here in the city of North Miami Beach. I would hope that Mr. Williams doesn't come in and start dismantling everything all at once and really take his time to really get to know his employees before decisions are made. I'm hoping that each
and single one of you tonight really look um because I haven't seen more or less a lot of people coming and speak for Miss Monaste nor Miss Kamo which uh also qualify Mr. Williams um paper except exceptional I've had my
conversation with him and um look into his army background. So, it's up to you all seven tonight to really make the decision for us the resident that since we're not up here, you are all going to decide. Really take your time when you
make this decision tonight because it could be very costly and make sure this an ironclad contract. We can't be giving away the farm like Mr. Kazan keep saying. So, please think about it. Thank you very much.
>> Thank you. Next speaker. Bobby Fino. >> Good evening everybody. I'm glad to be here. I'm glad to hear these things addressed. These are important issues. What? Oh, to repeat my name, please.
>> Yes, I am Bobby Fino. Thank you. Thank you. So I wanted to speak about a few issues and then I want to end on a good note but I'm going to save that for the end. What I want to speak about are two things that are really important to me.
Those are definitely as we all know the condition of the city. I think it's deplorable. I think it's ugly here. It doesn't need to be. We have very old buildings. We have buildings in disrepair. We have graffiti all over the
place. And I'm not certain if the city owns where I run. I run several miles every morning. I run down my street, which is northeast 173rd to West Dixie. As I'm past as I'm running on West Dixie
and the the wooded area is next to me. It's just filled with trash. I don't even know when this occurred. I know that there have been some homeless people in the past who lived there. I don't know if it's from that or not, but it ne it definitely needs attention.
It's a beautiful area and it's just a wreck. The other thing that concerns me is the street that I live on has become like a superhighway. The other day alone, two tractor trailers at separate times pulling loads
of cars rumbled up and down my street. There are cars racing up and down my street. I mean, it's it's ridiculous. I mean, it's it's it's almost non-stop during the day the amount of traffic because it's used as a through street to
access West Dixie and then to access Biscane. Something needs to be done. I mean, I'm asking for help here. It's I like I can't even sit outside without tons of traffic. It's just like it's deplorable how it became this way. I
don't know and I don't understand. My street, my address is not a through street for anybody. It shouldn't be treated as such. And we need to take these vehicles off of that street and reroute them. It shouldn't be that kind
of traffic. It's a family neighborhood. It shouldn't be a through street for commercial vehicles. And now that I've said those things, which disturb me greatly, which is why I'm here, I want to say how pleased, happy, and excited I
was with the job that they did with decorating 19th Avenue. It was above and beyond anything that they did before with the lights. Every time I drove on 19th Avenue, I felt like it was magical. I felt like I was just in this
beautiful, beautiful, sparkling street. It was incredible. I don't know who did it or how that occurred, but you guys, whoever did that, please let them know they have my kudos. I mean, I was really appreciative of that. They went
above and beyond. It's never been so lovely. So, I hope that all together here, we don't just come from our heads. We need to start coming from our hearts. >> Time. We need to have balance of that. So my time is up. So I'm going to say thank you for listening to me and let's
do the best we can for our city. >> You next speaker, >> Mr. Kazison. Good evening everyone. My name is Mubarak Gazan. Happy Dr. Martin Luther King Day,
Junior, which was yesterday. I saw in the resolution, one of those legislation that you misspelled his name. You did not put the doctor in front. You need to put have respect for the gentleman. He did a lot for this country. If it wasn't for him, we would not have been the best country
in the world. Uh, happy birthday, Linsu. Commissioner Linsu. My condolences to Elizabeth Pierre and her family or whomever passed away for her. And it is true 19th Avenue did not
look as good as it was this year. This year was the best. The nice white and blue lights. Great. Um, now we come to the city manager selection.
The city manager, whomever you elect, should not be a servant to only one elected official. It should be to seven of you
and the residents of North Miami Beach. In the past, what I've noticed, the city manager becomes entwined with the mayor only. And only whatever the mayor says, excuse me.
Only whatever the mayor says goes. And if a commissioner is along with the mayor, okay, that's fine. Doesn't work like that. It get our city into problem after problem after problem. It seems as though the mayor thinks that he owns the
city. This is his own family business and he's going to run it however he feels like doing it. This is not the only mayor that has been doing um it it's been like many mayors in the past. Some of the mayors were good. They took
a handsoff approach. I like that. And other mayors think that they have to get their foot and their body and everything into like a mudbat with the city manager. If that city manager, whomever we choose tonight is going to be behaving like that, I myself would come
up personally here and say to fire that city manager after 6 months or even when we notice that the city manager is just entwined with with a mayor any mayor doesn't matter supposed to be seven of you.
Seven of you supposed to get a respect of all the charter officers all. I'm not saying the charter officers should be having um favorites and only when a favorite tell the charter officer to do something then they would do it now
and I think my time is about up so I will leave whatever I have to say for the next meeting. Thank you very much for having me. >> Next speaker >> Mr. Mayor that was the last signed speaker. >> All right. Uh next item on agenda is
announcements. >> Oh close public comment. Next item on the agenda is uh action item number seven, announcements. >> Hello. Good evening. >> Hello. Good evening, mayor and commission and city of North Miami Beach residents. Here we have the
announcements. >> This lateral part of January, North Miami Beach enters an active period marked by visible progress. community engagement and important moments of recognition. Over the next coming days,
residents will see projects advance, voices heard, and spaces honored, reflecting the city's continued commitment to thoughtful growth and community connection. To begin, the city continues to invest in quality of life
amenities for families with the Highland Village Splash Pad groundbreaking taking place Wednesday, January 21st from 300 p.m. to 400 p.m. at the Highland Village Community Center.
As part of the ongoing park improvements, the city will mark a major construction milestone with the Washington Park phase 2 demolition ceremony scheduled for Friday, January
27th from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at the Washington Park Community Center, signaling progress. Following that milestone, the city will honor and celebrate its seniors community during the senior lunchon held Friday, January
23rd from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Marjorie and William McDonald Center. Community engagement remains a priority and residents are encouraged to participate in the Highland Village Town Hall scheduled for Tuesday, January 27th
from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Highland Village Community Center, where city leadership will share updates and hear directly from residents. In recognition of local history and community legacy, the city will host the
Mishon Park renaming ceremony on Wednesday, January 28th from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Honoring the significance of the space within North Miami Beach. The city will also advance critical
infrastructure improvements with the city center traffic circle groundbreaking taking place Thursday, January 29th from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. A project designed to improve traffic flow, safety, and long-term
mobility in the city center area. Help support those in need through the warm clothes, warm hearts clothing drive. Before this month concludes, the city encourages residents to support those in need. Donations are being accepted
through Friday, January 30th. The drive is collecting gently used coats and jackets for infants, children, and adults. Residents are reminded to please check individual drop off locations for operating hours.
For additional details regarding events, visit the city's website. These initiatives reflect the city's ongoing commitment to service progress and community connection. Residents are encouraged to stay engaged through the city's official channels. Follow us at
city NMBB. >> That's it. All right. Thank you. Next item is, Madame Clerk, uh, city commission reports, action item number eight. >> Correct. >> Thank you, >> Commissioner Shernoff. >> Good evening, everybody. I hope that everybody had nice holidays, enjoyed
them with your families, and I'd like to congratulate Sandy Rodriguez being promoted from police major to assistant chief. Congratulations to Michael Chinchilla, promotion from police captain to police major.
To Aldo Alfonso, promotion from police captain to police major. Jose Maya, promotion from police sergeant to police captain. David Foy, promotion from police sergeant to police captain.
Congratulations to all of our police that were awarded during the ceremony. I know there's a couple more, but those were the major ones that everybody needs to know about. And congratulations. How can you tell? They got more stripes on their arms. No, it's very happy. They're walking
around with smiles because it was a nice thing, Chief. Thank you. Okay. The um monastery had awards on January 8th and they were called the Legacy
Gala that was presented and it was a beautiful event and it featured uh Warding Phyllis Smith, Michael Joseph, Juan Pineas, William Dean,
Leslie Loenthal, Eric Eric Isakov, behind Dr. Seth Branson, and actress Tito Arand all were honored by the monastery, a beautiful event that
was put on. So, those of you who didn't attend, next year they'll be honoring new people. So, talk to the monastery and tell them how good you are so you can be honored. Okay. Uh, you heard twice about the city hall lights. Um, it was magnificent this
year. I can't tell you how many comments I've gotten from residents that said, "Oh my god, it's beautiful. I want to drive up and down 19th Avenue." They were so happy to see it and it shined a beautiful light on our community. So, whoever was in charge of it, congratulations. That was a beautiful
job done. I want to thank Andy. >> Andy stepped in when we needed him to step in. Andy is ready to hand off the over the torch to somebody else. Um, but
Andy, thank you for all that you did for us. We hope you're going to be happier back as recreation. Um, you know, I know that's your love. That's your love. And we love you, Andy. You did a great job for us and we appreciate you taking us
through this time. Wishing everybody a happy and healthy new year. Thank you, >> Commissioner Florimon. >> Thank you, Madam Clerk. Happy new year to everyone. Um I know Commissioner Chernoff said most of what probably all
of us have in uh in mind. Uh but um you know I did get a chance to attend the gayla for the Spanish monastery and I want to thank them for all of the hard work that they're doing to um you know make North Miami Beach a destination because a lot of people do
come to our city just so they can visit the Spanish monastery and we really appreciate everything that you guys are doing and for all of those who are honored um congratulations uh to you all. Uh in addition to that, the Christmas lights, everyone's talking about the Christmas lights. You know,
that change started happening last year. Um we we started to see the difference in the Christmas lights last year and this year they just took it to another level. Even on 171st when you're looking at the light poles, there were uh decorations on the light poles. I think the uh decorations even extended close
to the uh fulfur fountain if I'm not mistaken. Um, so you know, you see families taking pictures um at at the different locations by the Christmas tree, etc. It it was definitely a beautiful um experience for a lot of our residents and people who drive through
our city. So, thank you to our team and to our staff. Um, and also if you look around city hall, you'll see, you know, different improvements that are happening as well. Um, there there's some new uh trees that have been planted around um the rear of the uh McDonald
Center. In addition to that, I I I saw some um some paint that was that was done on the uh in the entryway, I believe, on the stair uh staircase and the entry of city hall. So, you know, our our employees are really working hard to make sure that aesthetically
things are pleasing. And I know there's much more work to be done. We talk about wayfinding signs, we talk about the signs, the entry signs and things of that sort. Um that have been a discussion for quite some time. Um but, uh we we we have to get there. But I do appreciate some of the work that's
already being done. The bus benches as well. Uh we we we've we've seen some of that implemented uh throughout across the street from Jefferson Plaza. So some things are happening and uh we look forward to more. But we want to thank our staff for their hard work because they work tirelessly. So give them a
round of applause. And um you know I'm I'm reading this uh resolution about um standing with the people of Iran Iran um and Commissioner Sue you know um brought this um up and we want to you know at least in my seat and I know my colleagues as well support
people who want to have the right to a life that is without prejudice that is without fear and to basically pursue happiness. So, uh, thank you for bringing that up and I look forward to supporting it. Aside from that, look, we have the manager to pick tonight and,
um, you know, a lot of people have their opinions based on, um, their desires to see the city move forward, but that's one of the key things that I see is that everybody wants the city to move forward. So, you know, I wish all of the um of those
who have uh you know, made themselves available to apply for this position. We thank them for applying and I wish them the best. And whoever we select tonight, let's all get together and rally behind them as a commission, okay? So that we can make sure that they
are successful because whoever's in that seat is going to rely on our collectivity to be successful. So, let's let's let's focus on that. And I'm sure that whoever gets in that seat, if we are a collective, will definitely move this city forward. Thank you, >> Commissioner Jean.
>> Thank you so much. Well said, Commissioner Floron. Good evening, everyone. Happy New Year. Um, I'm wanted to start off by thanking um, city manager Platkin, Marlene Monstein. The last nine months have been an adventure and you all have been able to do some
amazing work. Um, I'm looking at what's happening in Washington Park, what's happening in Highland Village, and you all should be very proud of the work that was done. Also, the email that we received for the 30K for the forestry grant that the city was able to get uh for trees and and improvements. Thank
you so much for that. And also, I I found a grant um for the library and we recently were awarded $3,000 um for improvements there. So, I'm for the for the mobile for the bookmo. So, we're still looking to see when that's going to be um rolling through the city,
but I wanted to take the time to thank each and every one of you who are here tonight. Obviously, what we do is um difficult at best, but you know, there's so much more that will come from this city, and I do believe that unity is the key to us getting there. So, thank you
to all the candidates who took the time to put their hat in the ring, and I'm looking forward to making a selection tonight. I'm also looking forward to um us becoming an all-American city. So, as we celebrate our centennial and there's so many different awards and recognition
that I I do believe that our city is definitely positioned to to receive. In addition to that, um big kudos to our police department. And for those of you who haven't looked at the new flower beds on our plaza, no, the city of North
Ryan Beach is really moving in a positive direction. So, I want to thank each staff member uh especially for the speed bumps on 10th on 10th humps. Um thank you for that to our public public works um director. I think
somebody alluded that earlier is that we have a great team and uh unless you have been in the shoes and walked the miles, the difficulty of this role can be often taxing. So, as we move in into 2026 with positivity, my hope is that we can
respect each other, respect the work that we're doing, but more so really honor the residents that we're here to to serve. And um I'm looking forward to this meeting. Thank you, >> Commissioner Smith. >> Thank you. Happy birthday, Lyn and Sue.
And happy new year to all the residents. I hope this year is one of your best years ever. Um, I was at Martin Luther King breakfast for the eenth time yesterday and I I
tell you something, it is such a reward to be a representative for the public. When you see what the public can do, when you see how one woman, it's now
role model 5,000, not 500. how one woman 33 years ago started an organization as a teacher for children that have no role model. Their father wasn't a part of their
life. Their grandfather wasn't a part of their life. And she made sure they would have a mentor. One woman changed thousands and thousands of life. Not just their life but their circle. their family, their children, their
neighbors. Amazing, amazing, amazing. And I'm I've invited the young man to come next meeting that was our mayor for the day. He is North Miami Beach High School that read the pledge because I think everyone should hear the pledge. So hopefully that's a to come to the
next meeting or listen to it on channel 77 because you're in for a good surprise. I want to um tell you that one of the activities that they put for this month is the splash pad. The shovel in the
ground for the splash pad. I've been working four years for that. Highland Village are people that are maybe less fortunate, didn't have opportunities, and they have 70 what is it? Trish's in
the audience, but 85 to 100 children, young children, >> 179, >> 179 children, and in the summertime they have nothing. They the families don't have a second car to drive them. And so finally, they're going to have a
splash pool. They have a basketball court. And when you go to Highland Village, you see 40, 50 men, women at enjoying that basketball court. The older children. So, they're finally going to have a splash pool and we have to continue with the movies because the
parents don't have money to take their children to the movies. They don't have money to buy Wi-Fi. So, these are these are the kind of things that where does your money go? How are we making it a better city? That's how we're doing it. So, if you
can come to that, you can come with pride. We changed the time from morning till afternoon so when the kids get home from school, they can come. Um, I want to just say I love football and I and it
was an amazing game, an amazing game, but our team, my University of Miami team, I will tell you they're kind they'll be back. They'll be back. They did they had an amazing season and wait until next year. Okay. The clothes that
were collected, that was an incentive that I have because it is very cold. It was very cold yesterday morning. They went to Fulford Church. Thank you, Nancy, my assistant here. She delivered for me. They went to Fulford Church right here down the street. And they
went to Washington Park to Pastor Budge. And they maybe some of them also went a little bit outside the city if we had boxes and boxes and they had too much. But the majority, 85 90% were right here
into North Miami Beach. Um, it was an honor to be honored and I will tell you that the Spanish monastery is the jewel of our city. It's an international destination for people to come to.
Marjorie Dean took it from a level of a nice place to visit to when you get there, you're going to see what you came for. She really has upgraded all of it. It's a lot of work and it was a beautiful night. The mayor
was honored and as he said and our police chief was honored and our chamber was honored and I want to tell you something rightfully so. But the best part of that is they bring their group of friends and they get exposed to our jewel of the city. So, we do, last thing
I want to say, we do have a very important, the most important vote you'll ever take as a commissioner because we are manager run. We're not mayor run. So, that manager is going to be in charge of the budget, 450 employees,
help the council who reach their goals. The most important vote we'll ever take is going to be taken when we decide, how we decide. If it's tonight, that would be fabulous if we could all work together. And that's the point of this last sentence. I hope we can work
together. I hope that we can, you know, find what would be the best fit for our city. They We don't know. They don't even know when they take the position. They don't know. They know how good they are, but they don't know how they can work with the city. So, the only thing I
can tell you is thank you all for participating. We can't do it alone. Thank you all for being here. And let's hope from all of us that this decision is going to be one that's going to make North Miami Beach a city that shines, that everybody will
want to open their business, try to move here, and come here to play and enjoy. Thank you very much. Everybody be well. >> Commissioner Sue, >> thank you. Good evening, everyone. And thank you all for coming out. Whether
you're voicing for your uh candidate or whether you're here to comment about potholes and speed humps and whatnot, all of you your participation is appreciated. Uh this is I have um I'm reaching one year anniversary as a
commissioner right now. Um I want to wish us all a happy new year. Um healthy, peaceful, and productive 2026. The start of the new year is always a reminder that progress is built one decision, one conversation, and one act
of engagement at a time. Yesterday, we all observed Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day um and the weekend had a nice weekend, a moment to reflect not only on his words, but on his call to action. Dr. King reminded us that democracy is
not passive. It requires participation and courage and participation courage and a willingness to speak up even when it's uncomfortable. I want to encourage our residents to stay engaged with your city. Your power
is your voice. Whether that's showing up to meetings, sending emails, making phone calls, or simply asking questions, civic participation matters, and it truly does make a difference. I also want to share an important community
resource. The UMC free clinic last time was hosted at Highland Village. It was very successful. We had a lot of patients lined up to come and see. This is strictly for uninsured individuals who do not have insurance. So, if you do not have insurance and you're concerned
or would you would like a checkup, please come. Our next one will be at Allen Park Community Center. I want to give a shout out to UMC Free Clinic for always providing these wonderful services, including prescription drugs for free. Everything is our favorite,
especially Commissioner Smith's favorite F-word, four-letter f word, free. So, um, if you or someone you know is uninsured and in need of medical care, please take advantage of this service. It is at Allen Park Community Center,
February 7th, 11:30 to 2:30 p.m. If there's something you need help with, if there's an issue in your neighborhood, or if you're unsure where to turn, please don't hesitate to reach out to any of us here that you feel connected with and you would like to speak with or
all of us. Um, I'm I'm I'm here to listen. I'm here to help. This is why you hired me is to take care of you. So, uh, navigate however you want to navigate city hall. I'm here to advocate for you. I want to, um, echo what my colleagues have all said about our PD,
about all the different communities, and about all of our our residents. And, um, I'm hoping to have a wonderful year. So, I thank our residents, our staff, my colleagues on the deis as much as they I
don't show it, but I really appreciate them. Um, and yes, we cannot work alone. I look forward to continuing the work ahead together. Oh, oh, oh, yes, yes, yes. So, um, thank you, Commissioner Jean, for reminding me about we had an
Asian night market, um, December 20th and 21st. >> Yes. And thank you. Thank you. Yes. No, I have to I definitely have to thank staff. we partner with the right people and there is such a demand that I have
gotten emails, I've gotten phone calls and said when is the next one? So, uh I'm planning the next one for the Asian-American Native Hawaiian Pacific Islander Heritage Month. So, we're going to do that and this time I'm trying to work
I'm working on trying to get um kosher food as well so that we can accommodate our Jewish brothers and sisters. Well, thank you very much and have let's let us have a great year ahead. Thank you, >> Vice Mayor Smuggler. Thank you and good evening um to
Elizabeth Pierre. Um I'm so sorry to hear that you've had a loss. Our sympathies are with you and your family. Uh happy belated birthday to Commissioner Flormont. >> Yes, >> not that long ago. And and happy early
birthday to Commissioner Sue. Capricorn. >> You are Capricorn. >> No, she's Aquarius. >> Oh, okay. Well, all right. Happy birthday. >> All righty. Okay. Um, thank you so much to Parks and Rex for uh making the
minora lighting amazing. Did you all have a nice time? It was good, right? >> Okay. Um, please I hope to see you all on February 1st at the literacy fair for our very
own North Miami Beach Library. Our very own North Miami Beach Library. Always our library. Um, also don't forget February 21st, Heart Health Walk. >> Our How many years have we been having
this now? like this is our like 12th annual now maybe >> right but um I hope to see you all there as well okay so I also want to congratulate
uh the mayor our chief Leslie from the chamber and commissioner Smith on um the beautiful um gal at the monastery Marjgerie Dean, who's you're still here, right? You're right there. You've done an amazing job.
Um, not not just at the gala, but just continuing and keeping the monastery going. Um, I think she deserves a round of applause for all the hard work that she does. Um, thank you to our police department for
all the hard work that you do for always, you know, keeping our families, our residents, our visitors, our staff safe. We always appreciate you. We do have the best police department and we will continue to always have the best
police department in North Miami Beach. I just want to finish with Venezuela and please correct my creole vinto. >> That'll work. That'll work. >> Okay. Did you understand me though? Okay. All
right. I I just said may may Haiti be free soon. And in Spanish I said Viva Venezuela. You all know what Viva Venezuela is. May Cuba be next. That's it. Thank you, >> Mayor Michael Joseph. >> Thank you, Madam Clerk. Uh, Mr. Mayor, would you announce who the one woman was
for me, please? I did not announce Frederriica Wilson's name. >> Well, you just um I'm I'm kind of confusing. You mean the congresswoman? >> The role model that started the one 5,000 role model.
>> Yes. Every >> You know that. Yes. Okay, Frederick Wilson 5,000 room miles. It was a great event. I'm glad that uh um for the attendance of the of not just our commission but our police um our
command staff that goes every year like and they share the table with the North Miami police um command staff as well. They attend every year. Um want to also um you know give condolences to to Liz and the loss of her family member as
well as giving condolences to Mr. Grunberger that passed away over at the kosher market by that accident >> right down the street. Um, also I want to take it u, you know, also highlight the fact that we've, you know, we did a pretty good job in regards to the street
lighting, but one of the reasons why 71st doesn't have it is because we don't have power listed out. So I I've always envisioned that we would have it over 19th but then having the you know the it going fully through the west Dixie hitting 95 all the way up to the where the bridge is and it cuts off on 15th
Avenue. So like a you know a big old mark. So Lord willing I know I spoke I brought no well no I brought it to Andy. It just they they just they just need to put infrastructure down for just for power. So that's the one thing that they've been missing to put the lights on that streets because they don't have the power in those different medians. So
just a just some additional um guidance in that next year. Hopefully you guys can do that. Um also want to thank um the Spanish monastery mine um come from Goodstock. You know you know I I like Billy a lot. So you know
you can let him know that uh I know his team is moving on to the to the um conference uh conference uh conference title. It's been a long road for New England, but I know he's very happy in the in the path that it's going to now. So, you he'll understand what I mean by that because he loves he loves loves New
England. >> Yeah, that's right. Uh, also, I just want to look forward to just having a speedy meeting um and wishing you all well and um be safe and uh thank you so very much. All right, Madam Clerk, next item. >> Consent.
>> Move to approve. >> Do I have a second? >> Move to introduce. I have a motion to second. City attorney. >> Thank you, mayor. Um, consent agenda consists of the following items. Item 9.1, commission conference meeting uh
minutes from December 16, 2025 from the city clerk. Item 9.2, the regular commission meeting minutes of December 16, 2025 from the city clerk. Item 9.3, commission workshop minutes of January 6, 2026 from the city clerk.
Item 9.4, uh, commission workshop minutes of January 7th from the city clerk. Item 9.5, our new agenda item for from the Eastern Shores Special Taxing District, first and second. Uh, nothing in front of you
on that this evening. Uh, probably there will be next time. Item 9.6, resolution number R2026-01, approving a task order with the engineer. Is this one? Is this on on? Let me just double check that one. Still
>> they're all going on. We just have an added item. >> Nothing has been pulled. >> Okay. Um, I would ask uh if the manager's office can double check on that item uh number R2026-01,
approving a task order with the engineering company LLC for staff augmentation services from the interim public works director resolution the mayor and city commission of the city of North Miami Beach, Florida, approving a task order between the city and the engineering company LLC for staff
augmentation services in a budgeted amount not to exceed $400,000 and authorizing the city manager or designated to do all things necessary to effectuate this resolution providing for conflicts and subject to the budget appropriation and availability of funds and providing for an effective date.
Item 9.7 resolution number R2026-02 approving a task order modification with Brown and Caldwell for the uh Pineree Park South water man replacement design project from the NMBB water director. A resolution of the mayor and city commission of the city of North Miami
Beach, Florida, authorizing a task order modification with Brown and Caldwell increasing the estimated expenditure by 70,218 for Pineree South water main replacement design project authorizing the city manager designated all things necessary
to effectuate this resolution providing for conflicts providing for scriveners errors providing for severability and providing for an effective date. Item 9.8 8 resolution number R2026-03 approving a purchase order with DOS Equipment for the purchase of front loaders from the NMBB water director.
Resolution of the mayor and city commission of the city of North Miami Beach, Florida. Approving a purchase order between the city and DOS Equipment LLC for the purchase of John Deere wheel loaders in an amount not to exceed $484,564. Authorizing the city manager designated
all things necessary to effectuate this resolution. Providing for conflicts, providing for scriven errors, providing for severability, and providing for an effective date. Item 9.9 resolution number nine.9
I'm sorry number nine agenda item 9.9 resolution number R 2026-04 approving task order for NMB gateway and wayfinding program introduced by the interim public works director a
resolution of the mayor and city commission in the city of North Miami Beach Florida approving a task order for professional engineering services for the development ment of a gateway and wayfinding program in an amount not to exceed $150,000
with CPH Consulting LLC DBA uh CPH LLC under the continuing services agreement for professional consultant services and authorizing the city manager designated all things necessary to effectuate this resolution providing for conflicts and subject to the budget appropriation and
availability of funds and providing for an effective date. Item 9.10 10 resolution number R2026-05 approving purchase order with traffic logist for the purchase of speed humps introduced by the interim public works
director a resolution the mayor and city commission in the city of North Miami Beach Florida approving a purchase order between the city and the traffic logix corporation for the purchase of safety and traffic management equipment for a budgeted amount not to exceed $17,000
authorizing the city manager or designator do all things necessary to effectuate this resolution providing for conflicts providing for scriveners errors providing for severability and providing for an effective date item 9.11
resolution number R2026-06 approving a budget amendment to appropriate certain developer public benefit funds for youth sports and arts in public spaces program um introduced
by the interim deputy city manager and CFO. A resolution to the mayor and city commission of the city of North Miami Beach, Florida, approving a budget amendment to the fiscal year October 1st, 2025 through September 30th, 2026 annual budget to appropriate certain developer public benefit funds for youth
sports and arts and public places programs, providing for implementation, providing for an effective date. Item 9.11, resolution number R2026-07, approving a budget transfer for lobbying services brought by the interim deputy city manager and CFO. Resolution the
mayor and city commission of the city of North Miami Beach, Florida, authorizing a budget transfer within the adual annual budget for fiscal year October 1st, 2025 through September 30th, 2026 in the amounts of $240,000 from the city manager contingency account to the city
manager professional services account to provide funding for lobbying services from Rama Consulting Group LLC in an amount not to exceed $240,000 in providing for an effective date. Item 9.13, resolution number R2026-08,
support of Medicare for all, introduced by the mayor. Resolution of the mayor and city commission in the city of North Miami Beach, Florida, in support of Medicare for all, repealing all resolutions in conflict therewith, providing for incorporation of recitals and providing for an effective date. And we have the two add-ons. Um, I think I
have these in proper order. So, I believe item 9.14 um is the resolution pertaining to the law enforcement grant that's uh sponsored by the city manager's office. Resolution of the mayor and city commission of the city of North Miami
Beach, Florida, accepting a state financial assistance grant award from the Florida Department of Law Enforcement for the Community Violence Intervention and Prevention CVI grant program authorizing the city manager to execute the grant agreement authorizing
the execution of subawward agreements with North Miami Beach Police Athletic League and uh Uturn Youth Consulting, providing for incorporation of recitals and providing for an effective date And finally, what I believe is item 9.15,
>> Mr. Attorney, Mr. Mayor, uh that item was voted on to be uh added to legislation not under consent for solar solidarity in Ireland, unless you guys want to change. >> Which which one?
>> The I'm reading. So, I'm reading consent. So, is is the Iran item in legislation not here? Is that correct? Okay. Then then that completes the consent. the the last one then the grant completes the consent agenda. Mayor, >> do I have a motion? >> Move to approve.
>> All in favor say I. >> I. >> All right. Next item is legislation uh 11.1. >> Move to introduce ordinance number 2025-13 11.1 >> second.
>> Mr. City Attorney, I'm sorry. Move to introduce >> 11.1. We did we vote consent? Yes, we just That's fast pass, mayor. All right, then we're moving to the legislative second.
>> Okay. Um item 11 11.1. It was 11.2 that Commissioner Jean deferred, right? Okay. Item 11.1 uh res ordinance number 2025-13, regulations for homebased businesses. This is second reading introduced by the
community development director. An ordinance of the mayor and city commission in the city of North Miami Beach, Florida, amending chapter 12 entitled locus local local business tax receipts and regulations article one section 12-1.20 20, Renamed Homebased
Businesses. Chapter 24, entitled Zoning and Land Development, Article 2, Definitions. Section 24-21, renamed Intent and Language. Section 24-22,
Definitions, and uh and Article 5, Zoning Use District. Section 24-41, residential single family RS1 district. Section 24-42, residential single family RS2 district.
Section 24-43, residential single family RS3 district section 24-44 residential single family RS4 district section 24-44.1 residential single family RS5 district
section 24-44.2 two, mobile home uh MH district section 24-45 residential duplex RD district section 24-47
residential multif family RM19 district section 24-48 residential multifamily RM23 district and section 24-49 residential multifamily family RM
32, District of the City's Code of Ordinances, to ensure consistency with Florida statute 559.955, homebased businesses, local government restrictions, providing for findings of fact, codification, conflict, scriveners
errors, severability, and providing for an effective date. >> Okay, thank you. Where's the >> And again, second reading, M. >> Yes. No, he's going to if you can uh elaborate more on the piece of legislation before we go into discussion
and vote. >> Um for the record, Mitchell Austin, assistant director, community development. This is a second reading of this uh ordinance. No substantive changes have been made uh between first reading and now. Uh the presentation
that staff entered into the record at first reading uh stands. If you have any additional questions or comments, I'm available. >> Just explain that it's basically just cleaning up everything. It's not new stuff that we're changing everything.
>> Uh no, sir. Florida statute changed. Uh uh this uh uh section was added uh providing additional clarifications and restrictions to local government regarding uh the regulation of homebased
businesses. This entire ordinance is uh is drafted to uh bring our code into operational consistency with the existing adopted Florida statute. >> Yeah. Commissioner, let me add that um it is different than what was there
before. It's not like it's no difference, but it's we're required to do it. The state did a major rewrite to help to enable people to conduct homebased businesses and not be prevented from doing so by local zoning
codes. So, when they made a mandatory change, this is to bring our code, as Mr. Austin just said to bring our code into compliance with state law, which we're required to do. So, it says what they told us it has to say.
>> Thank you. >> Yeah. And just for the record, uh Mr. Mayor and Commission, uh no changes between first and second. This is the the same um ordinance change. >> Move to approve. >> Second. >> All right. Can Madam Cler, can you do a
roll call? >> Commissioner Shernoff. >> Yes. Commissioner Flory, >> yes. >> Commissioner Jean, >> yes. >> Commissioner Smith, >> yes. >> Commissioner Sue, >> yes. >> Vice Mayor Smuckler, >> yes. >> Mayor Michael Joseph, it passes. >> Great. Next, we go to the item 1.2 was
deferred for the record. And I think you said, mayor, if if I understood that we've moved down 5.1 and moved up um what was in I guess it was 13. >> Yes. in discussion
>> 13.1. >> Yes. So that's the I think the commission voted that's the next item we're on now. >> Um just a thoughts and prayers for Miss Hilton's family. Lori Hilton was part of the employee pension board. General Pinch. She passed away u not too long ago. I just want to add that into the
record. Thank you. So >> now item 5.1. I I believe it's it's uh your your process. >> So, I'll start. So, basically um we're gonna um have a discussion on the city manager process and selection uh in the pass because you know there's no secret
voting, no no writing or anything. You just usually what happens is that someone makes a motion and then if there's a second you vote on on that particular um person or what have you. That's t typically how it is. >> And mayor state there is no secret.
There's no voting of any figure voting >> and in order to appoint someone it takes a minimum of four votes of the >> four votes. Yes. A majority majority vote. So basically that's how we've always done it. Um in the past we've you
know we've had um processes you know going back to I guess there there are times when people were part of the process and then they ended up being as you pointed out commissioner Smith then they'll be not in the manager um part of it but like other times we would do charter charter employees there' be
times that people would not we wouldn't even go through a process it would be called from the deis >> not from the day but from the audience and they would walk up and then get n just be selected without any type of vetting Um to to my knowledge, this is the most extensive vetting we've had in a very
long time in regards to any candidate any charter um candidate I've ever seen. Um multiple interviews um extensive background checks that we've all been privy to that um that range from a whole range of issues. So, I'm gonna what I'm
going to do is like at least have everyone make put their thoughts on record and then we can we can move on move forward and in and deciding on who can we can select and if you have any additional questions so everybody has an opportunity to speak as transparent as
we can be. So I will start to my most senior not well technically I'm not going to say that but um Commissioner Smith >> you know um because this is the most important decision we can make up here the next week the next month. It doesn't
just happen no matter who we pick. You have to also get them to work on their contract and get it approved and signed >> by >> first. >> But they have to do it the next week or
two. So, but if I could have my wish, if everybody would say, "Let's give her a wish." My wish would be for the seven of us to discuss these four candidates to discuss what we feel a strength in them what we
feel would be a weakness for us to discuss it why and I don't know if you want me to take this opportunity but I would like us to do that I'd like the approval of all of us to do that so that we can
tell to the public at the end why that person should be the person that runs the city. They all all four candidates have such strong pluses, but they all have a minus two. There is no perfect. And I just think that that would work
real well if we discuss it. We're in the open. We have them have it advertised and we have every right to do that. And if it's going to be something different after everybody talks, I'd like a second turn, Mr. Mayor. Even though I said you're you said you're going to go around once, but being as I was the
first one, I'd like to hear what other people have to say. Thank you. And and if everybody agrees to that, we could just say two minutes if you want to discuss the candidates. >> Do you want do you want to start off? >> And I did I did talk to the attorney about it and he said no problem.
>> No, but do you want to start off and then >> and are we are we all going to go ahead? Well, as far as I can see, you know, one of the candidates had extraordinary extraordinary uh credentials. Uh built a water plant,
went to a city that was absolutely going into 100% foreclosure, and they said it couldn't be done to pull him out, and he did it within six months. Infrastructure is very important. So, the things that I'm looking at is what's
ahead of us the next year. our water plant and our problems with it, our infrastructure and our finances, all those things. The candidate should fit those things. Extraordinary.
Extraordinary. On the other hand, you also have to have a candidate that will will get along with all of us, that will interact with us. So, not knowing a personality, you don't know until they get here. one of the candidates,
our CRA may be in trouble and the CRA experience and the contacts in the county are remarkable, remarkable contacts and um has proven that they have the ability
to handle whatever comes across their desk. One of the candidates already knows us and that's amazing plus that they have
spent years already getting to know the commission and yet there is something to be said of maybe we need fresh blood. Maybe we do need fresh blood and not somebody that's that does know us and and to shake it up a little. Maybe make
a difference. Look, it hasn't worked so far. So maybe make a difference. And one of the c the last candidate had a lot of acclamase, strong human being, strong person. But
again, having ties with family in a city that we are constantly I don't know that that would be a plus that we're constantly let me finish that sentence at negative
um problems with I mean fighting with us us fighting with them and costing us $9 million. I I don't know if that is something that we should consider with that and and
this none of this stuff none of the what I'm saying the candidates don't know already. I haven't hidden it. But that's my thoughts. I don't know what other people want to say and what they want to but I'd like to hear what they would say. what what do they feel about this and what do they feel about the
candidates and then after we have a discussion we can have a a discussion of or have to vote and what we're going to do. I think that that would be I think that would be fair to the public and I think it gives food to thought to all of us. So thank you for the opportunity and
again after I hear everybody else if I need to say something else I'll come. >> Hey excuse me Mr. Mayor, isn't this right now to decide how we're going to vote? >> No. Well, no, that that's what we're doing. We're just having a we're having a discuss. >> No, we're we're just one was to decide
how to vote and then the next one was to pick someone, but we don't even know how we're going to vote. >> Vice Mayor, >> okay, but that's >> is a is a discussion period. Vice May to be clear, right? >> Wait, wait, wait. Commissioner Smith. Commissioner Smith. Like I said, we've I
I've I've given a a surmise history of how we've done this in the past going back almost what 15 years or what have you where we've gone through a process of selecting managers. We've seen instances where people will be in the in the commission chamber being selected. >> It says here decide on voting process
regarding city managers. >> No, we're having that discussion. But >> one of the processes I would like >> No, no, it's what we're doing. I said one of the processes I'd like to do is everybody discuss it and he said go ahead. >> We you got give me our Okay, Commissioner Smith. Now I'm going to go
to to Commissioner Chernoff and I'm going to I'm going to work it that way. Commissioner Chernoff, >> I like Fortuna are questioning because we've already had discussions with every one of them. We've all asked our questions already. So what do we feel? I
feel that there's two that rise to the top. Both Darvin Williams and Rasha can't never say that other come out. >> Come out. Okay. Those two are the two that are my favorites. >> No. No. Is that what all you want to say or just
>> Well, I mean, why bo both of them have been city managers before? Both of them bring a lot to the table. Rasha brings that she did the the CRAAS which would be a great
asset to us and not like Phyllis thinks on Darvin I don't think that the having the wife that's a commissioner in another city that we're fighting with is a bad thing. I think it's a good thing.
I think it's a way for us to maybe mend the fence and do something well. And that's the way I look at it. Thank you, >> Commissioners. Um, Florman, >> uh, similar to Commissioner Smuckler, I
think the item is specific to how we're going to vote, but um, and the reason I mentioned that is because when we do um go when we do make a motion on any particular um, applicant, we're going to have an an opportunity for some form of
discussion. Um, we we did have, you know, interviews with everyone. Honestly, I am confident that any single one of these candidates would make a good manager. Um, and and I bring it back to the commission that it's all about how we
come together to support them in their role that's really going to make the difference. Everyone brings something specific to the table. for um you know, Miss Monestem, it's familiarity, it's consistency, it's um you know, having
familiarity of each of our uh the you know, styles of how we work. Um you know, Miss Camo has the CRA background with our city. So, she has experience with the city of North Miami Beach and with and with the county, you know, and with uh other municipalities and manager
roles. Uh Mr. Williams had a litany of people here that were supportive of him and had experiences with him. So, he brings some good things to the table that we can use. Um, uh, Mr. um,
Mr. Mendes, you know, when when I when I when I spoke with him, he had literally, you know, spent a lot of time going over uh, our budget and was really really uh, prepared for that conversation. So,
everyone has something that they bring to the table. Um, and so I'm looking forward to going into the voting process. Someone makes a motion, someone makes a second, if that person has the support, they become our manager. If not, we move on to the next name. That's the way I see it. Thank you,
>> Mr. Sue. >> Thank you, Mr. Mayor. Um, so in the process of selecting a city manager, I'm actually thinking like we have a written ballot that is not anonymous and you write your name and one name of the
candidate and then submitted for the clerk to be read into the record. Uh, that's uh this is my I'm just talking about my my preference. Um, I think the the selected or appointed CM should start right away despite the
interim actually leaving February 1st. We need him to hand over, you know, the the treasures or whatever it is, the treasures, the keys, you know, he needs to know all the doors, introduce all the people, hand over anything that is incomplete by uh
the current managers so that the transition is smooth. even you know I mean any any position has a transition period. So while after they get selected they should have that transition period where it's up to February 1st that
they're transitioning and it um I'm suggesting that the salary be the same as the current um interim city manager and then it up to negotiations. I hope that we would have a contract from the attorney by, you know, that we we all
agree on by February 1st so that he starts the day by signing the contract and stepping into his role and then everybody goes back to business as usual. Um, so I think that uh there has to be a lot of things that we also bring
to the we also bring to the attorney as to what we want to see in the contract. I'll say that the city manager contract that we have is very old and obsolete, very general and very generic. I think we can customize it a little bit more.
Um I'm looking to possibly take out any like if we were to remove somebody or to um dismiss someone without cause, we should not have to um well, I'm sorry. There's like the appointee needs to be
refreshed every year for instance, right? I think we need to reappoint that candidate or that uh that city manager every year with an evaluation. Uh we should be able to evaluate our employee. We only have three. We have seven of us
and we have three and we should be able to to evaluate them. So that means that like every year they get an evaluation from the seven commissioners. we reappoint that person to make sure that their performance is like on point and
they are on top of things. So that's um that's my take. Thank you, >> Commissioner. >> No, I'm going to you then >> 1111. >> You're the vice mayor. >> It's okay. >> I love it. So, I I I
think I do agree that we have four great candidates. Uh I any way that we go is going to be a good way. Um but there are concerns with each of the candidates and I've expressed those to those candidates individually. Um, I do agree with Commissioner Sue that we should have a
written ballot with a name. And the reason being is because when even when we hear each other's votes, it does sway how we how we decide. And for the process of fairness, I do think that writing it down and having the name would give me also the comfort of
knowing that my decision could be supported by someone else, but they're they're making their decision independent of that thought as well. Um, and again, I think each candidate has their own plus and minuses, many of which were shared tonight already. And I'm looking forward to seeing how we can
mitigate this process in the best way possible. >> All right. Well, first of all, I want to start by thanking Andy for um stepping up to the plate and doing an amazing job. and um he's not like leaving us leaving
us. He'll he'll still be here. So, I'm sure um he's such a wonderful guy that I'm sure that he will um help us help the manager um with um anything that they need. And we we really do appreciate you and we know how hard this was on you and we
really, you know, some people can come and criticize you if they want, but they don't realize that um if you weren't there, we don't know what we would have done, right? Because we've been talking about a manager for since like July now
>> and the only one that stepped up to the plate >> is you and we appreciate you. I appreciate you. So, thank you. Yes. Um, you know, the the four final candidates were all amazing, and if I can just
clone them and put them into one person, that that would be the the most ideal um solution. I I I think they were all great, and it's a it's a really hard decision to make. Um, I'm going to say that um I don't have a problem with um
one of them having a wife that works in Miami Gardens. I actually contributed to three of Miami Gardens commissioners campaigns. So, I'm a person that
believes in um in um tolerating each other and supporting each other. And I also uh believe that um that
in in in a house that they can um especially because I know that couple, I believe that they can separate um their jobs and their personal lives and and not mix them. So um I and and I have
faith in that, but I'm not picking anything. I'm just saying I have faith in that and I have faith in all for the candidates and um I can we after the mayor speaks are we going to decide in the voting process or are we going to do do another
round of this because we're supposed to be deciding on the voting process not really talking about all this so after you speak I say can we decide on the voting process please yes I'm asking you can we decide >> I'm asking you yes Please.
>> Thank you. Thank you. Uh well, I'm going to fall in the spirit of Commissioner Smith and say my thoughts. Um I have seen a lot of things on this commission for I've seen a lot of things on this commission for going a lot of weird
things um on how selections are made. Um some I've been a party to, some I haven't. Nothing's perfect. I I totally understand that. Um but you know
as uh my you know my position has shifted from you know from a commissioner now a mayor I'm I'm taking a more nuance approach to this. I understand that you know at the end of the day this person will be um at the
forefront of our community because that would be the person that runs the day-to-day operation. staff would look at this person. Um, not, you know, not just the the the people that keep the city running, our police department, uh, outside entities, um, people that from
the state level, from, you know, federal partners will all be looking towards this person as a representative of our great city. So, I have to take that into consideration. So, I did have, you know, opportunities to interview everyone. And when I did these interviews, there's a
lot of questions that I've asked. uh one of the first ones is do you meet the minimum qualifications and one of those candidates said they did not they did not meet the minimum qualifications and that was honest that was their honest perception but they said they did not and as I dug deeper
and you know I know we've all been brief uh on on you know detailed background checks on each candidate you know and I don't know how detailed those requests could be open to the public but I can I'm pretty sure that these things could be if if a information request were to
be made, they could get them. And there's a lot of concerning stuff in some of these background checks that I I I am fearful or have some concern if they do if it does get out,
would it be an embarrassment to our city? A real embarrassment. Um, and I just want us to be cautioned in that fact because at the end of the day, no matter what, this person will be put on and then they will get the the
community will know who this person is and the vetting from a social standpoint would happen independent of us and that will be communicated to various news outlets, I would assume. because we are a city that's always been, you know, we've had these issues with Miami Gardens, which, you know, we're um we're
in active litigation with, and I just want us to have the best representative for the city moving forward. I understand that this person is going to be in the forefront. I want to be confident that the community doesn't question our judgment because they're
just going to see what's being publicized. And if we were privy to that information and we decided to make that decision irregardless of that, that can be considered to be negligent. And I for myself have to take that consideration. I know everybody has their own thought process. I get that. I respect
everybody's thought process. That's why I wanted to hear everybody's consensus. But I also know that, you know, for outside of personal issues or or or or connections that we may have with either candidate or what have you, you know,
that's going to get out for me. I wanted to I when we initially put out the the head of hunter, I was I was for that cuz at the end of the day, I think I think that would have been a more a very, you know, even-handed approach, take the process outside of the commission's hands, which I don't think and I like
we've never actually did that before. And I was very comfortable with that because I supported it and I saw the I saw the how the commission was moving and then it it kind of said no, let's not do that or or what have you. We opened up the process. We increased the we increased the the wage and a lot of
people didn't decide to apply or what or what have you. But basically as the result the reason that happened was because what we had in front of us wasn't something that at the time the commission wasn't comfortable moving forward. I get that. I get that. But as we've delved into this process and we've
gotten into the backgrounds of all these individuals or whatever, I just want us to be cognizant of the fact that nothing that is hidden won't come out. The way that we've all been vetted independently as elected officials, this one person will be vetted. And I am
extremely concerned given the fact that we're moving air into Centennial where we have a lot of issues that we're trying to resolve and we've been purposely trying to keep ourselves from out of being in the news from a negative standpoint to understand that whoever we choose has to be a representative is
going to be representative of this entire city and and when you put your vote behind whoever you you guys will choose understand you'll be putting a vote behind that person and everything he has or she has behind it. So, I just wanted to make that very clear. I
understand that, you know, we um city attorney to go to the process standpoint because I don't want to belver the point. I know we can't have a secret ballot because I I know that we can't have a secret ballot. I know that for a fact that when I um when I had a
conversation uh I I I I mentioned I I heard something about writing on a note or what have you. I that possibly we did with you. I know that was an RFP process that in regards to the city attorney position that was very different than what we did there >> because that was an that was an RFP that was a bad process >> that was about process but it was an RFP
process. This is not that by no means. So that's why like the written aspect is kind of a difficult thing because at the end of the day it's like either you vote, let everybody see who you're voting for, call the vote, see what where where it stands and take it from there. It's not it's not rocket science. I mean it is it is what it is. I'm just
making it because we can't we cannot do something that's going to be seen as as subversive cuz I just want everybody to see what's happening and understand that and let them know that whatever is in the whatever is in the dark will come out. No. Oh, okay. I I just want to I just
want to say that process. So, um you I'll go to the We'll move >> Sure. >> Um Commissioner, >> I thank you, Mr. Mayor. I like the the points that you're making. What I what I do want to say is to all the candidates that are listening to this, you know,
the the standard the gold standard is going to be risen and we were able to be privy to some information that is confidential per state law and etc. And I think that whatever in decision that we do make as a collective here tonight
is important for us to know that and that individual also to know that you are on notice because this is a public meeting. So we stand with that person whoever we choose and that person also knows that the standard is high. It's a high standard whoever's coming into the
seat and you know I do want to protect the confidentiality of all candidates just like you mentioned Mr. demand that there's some candidates that don't meet the qualifications um and they were open in that statement as well. We we are taking all those things into consideration. So whether
it's the perceived lack of of experience or the perception of of lack of propriety, all those things are in consideration and any candidate that's listening to this needs to know that we're watching. The public is watching. The commission is watching. It's not
going to be a a walk in the park, but we're here to do a job and that we're here to do a job collectively. So, Mr. Attorney, I don't know if you can speak to what um Commissioner Stu mentioned about the RI and is that a possibility or would that be outside of the scope of what we can do?
>> You have broad discretion in how you conduct your vote. The simplest certainly is there's a motion and if it doesn't get four votes then there's another motion and that can get four votes. However, the suggestion
that Commissioner Sue made is legal as well. The only thing that I can think of that you can't do is something that keeps your vote secret. If you vote by written ballot, you must
sign it. The public has a right to know how every member of the commission votes because you represent the public. So as long as your vote is not kept secret as long as it is plain and and open to
the public, you can choose who you want. But having said that, let me say the mayor's suggestion is certainly the simplest, most straightforward, and avoids things like do you have a runoff ballot? Do you have a second ballot? Do
you have, you know, one candidate? Do you eliminate the lowest C? I mean, those are all considerations if you're voting in a different fashion. So, with that said, an open ballot is a legal ballot. Commissioner Sue,
>> thank you so much, Mr. Mayor. So, yes, I I like the open ballot. I think if we have a 33, then there's a runoff between the two candidates. So, if uh nobody gets over 51% or gets 51% like it goes
back down to for another vote, but it has to we have to sign That's why it's better just to call have a motion and to call a vote. Commissioner, wait. Commissioner Smith. >> Oh, I just want to finish off this uh
this segment. So, if if there is a 322, like you said, which is highly probable, um is it possible to just make a motion for the person who got three votes and see if there's a fourth and then be done >> if it's done openly? Yes. But >> it definitely
>> if you have a 3211, >> which you you could >> Yeah. through. >> Commissioner Smith, >> I just >> Oh, I was going to make a motion to uh >> I just want to say being as I'm >> I just want to say to the public,
>> no matter which one of these four, we're we're okay. We're in good hands. No matter which one of these four would get selected, they all have strong qualities that could take care of us. Um, but I like
having not thought of that and I thank Commissioner Chernoff for pointing out it might be a plus 100%. I like and I thank you all for participating in my dream. What I but I do like I never thought of that and I like the idea that we write down and we write sign it with
our name because I do feel when you make a motion and then they call the names you'll be influenced by that. You don't vote. You don't vote right away. I think that's a very good idea independently. Then what did you decide without
hearing, without knowing and let's see how it goes. Just take seven pieces of paper, everybody write their name on it and write who they pick on it. That's it. >> I motion to vote by written ballot. >> I second that. >> Okay. And I I just want to ask a question. Okay. >> To the attorney. So, you're saying it's
okay to do that, but um and I just because I don't want this to come back and bite us and later say this was an illegal vote or something. Um the mayor said to me that we can't do I because I said to him that that's what we did when when um you were voted in and and he
said because it was our an RFP process. So, I just want to make sure that you're 100% okay with the fact that we can do that because I don't want I don't want in a month to someone say we voted illegally or improperly. So, >> can I interject something real quick? I
I really want to stress on the we sign our name on the ballot. We >> absolutely there's no ranking like we did for the attorney candidate. >> It would not be acceptable otherwise. But I just want to make sure that that's legal and we're not going to come back
in a month and be told it's not. >> Anything that is not a secret ballot is legal. However, I would not, let me phrase it this way. If you're going to proceed other than
simply there's a motion, there's a second and you see if it gets four votes, don't decide where you will go on that process after you see how the votes come in. You
should decide if you're going to go that route. >> Well, no, no, no. The question is, is it okay to to do a write a write in? Um, >> I'm trying to answer it vice mayor. Oh, well it doesn't sound like it. >> I'm sorry. >> Sorry. >> It's I you might prefer a yes or no answer,
but you don't usually get that from me because there are nuances under the law and things arise. I mean, as I said, if you decide that you if the majority commission wants to do a written signed
ballot, you could do that. But you should determine if that's what you're going to do, what your entire process is, not just the first step. If it were to come back
that no one gets more votes in that fashion, >> if it were to come back that there's a 3211 split or something like that, what is the rest of your process going to be?
Don't wait till you see the votes and then say, "Oh, this is what I want to do now." Outline what the other steps of the Are you gonna >> Mr. Attorney, I think that um there there seems to be some movement about doing these these written um uh votes,
right? >> So, let's just call the question. >> Yeah. So, maybe we should we should call the question. And then there was another um discussion about if somebody got three, can we motion and see if they can get a fourth? I I think that makes sense. If someone has three votes and then we motion to see if they can get a fourth vote or we put their name uh we
we make an official motion on on their name to see if they have a fourth vote >> with difference commissioners you could also have 2221 you have four candidates. I'm simply saying to you that if you >> if I can finish please. I'm simply
saying to you >> that if you decide to use a written signed ballot, which is legal, but you should not, it's probably not the best idea to jump
around for various different methods of voting. If you're going to do written signed ballots, then stick with written signed ballots. Don't jump from a first vote with that and then a motion, which you if you decide not to do that, say
what the procedure is going to be a written signed ballot. Does that mean that everybody >> who gets who's among your finalists gets considered for the second written ballot or the third or the fourth or the fifth
written ballot if you go that far? If you keep going and nobody is getting four, then does somebody at the bottom get eliminated? Do you have to get one vote for further consideration? I mean you you should address those issues
before you take any vote because if you pick a method and then abandon it >> right >> in the middle that inconsistency could be questioned >> in terms of what you decide to do. So,
it's perfectly legal to do that, but you have to you should specify the whole process. You don't know how many ballots that could go. >> Right. Mr. Mayor,
there's a motion on the table. I'm speaking against the motion. I believe that we should just make a motion and it be seconded and then we go from there. That's the simplest way. And we don't play around with paper. We don't play around with three or four votes. >> Okay.
>> Um we're all, you know, elected up here to do the job. That's the job. Make the make your voice known. >> I'm good with that. I'm >> Well, let me say the motion is is legal
and it is in order, but if you're going to go that route, you need to fill in the blanks of what the other >> steps will be if no one gets four votes on that. >> No, no. If it's the way you said,
Commissioner Chernoff, that's simple. I'm saying if you the motion about a legal a written signed ballot you need to say what happens in that if you know again it's 3111 or some how many ballots are you going to go do people get
dropped all four candidates continue if you do that you shouldn't adopt part of a a procedure you need you should adopt the whole procedure >> can we can can the motion uh can the maker of the motion um state that if the
motion is to pass then we can consider the method. Are are they able to do that so that we can see if the motion passes to begin with? >> Yes. >> Okay. >> Right. >> So, so yeah. So, yeah. >> So, so my my my thoughts are I think
there's the likelihood of the scenario of a 33 is very high. Okay. Um, >> no. Commissioner uh Sue, I guess what I'm saying is >> if you can clarify your motion in saying that we're just dealing with whether or
not we write uh we have a written ballot and then if we decide we want written ballots, then we would then go into the process and method of how we choose the manager. >> Okay. So, what do you want me to clarify about it? So I I I motion that we have a
written ballot, one name per commissioner, signed and submitted to the clerk. The clerk reads it to the public right away. Mr. >> Can is suggesting that you state that if
your motion passes, there would be a subsequent motion that would set out all the other procedures like what happens if there's a second or a third or a fourth or a fifth ballot. >> Okay. So, I'm not clear on what I'm supposed to
say. So, what I'm saying is whoever gets the top votes in the last in the top two votes then, you know, goes into a runoff. Anybody else with one vote was is eliminated and then we go until we find the one with the four votes. >> No. Because anybody that in a paper
vote, anybody who didn't like what they voted on the first or saw the writing can change their vote. You can't stop them from changing their vote. >> I I would like to do a verbal vote. >> Right. So, let's just make the motion then the second was already theirs.
Well, you can't motion and second somebody, >> right? Let's call the vote >> if you guys want to vote against it. Sorry. Um, so the motion is just for clarity, the motion is to go forward with a written ballot and in the
likelihood that we don't get to any candidate does not get to four, we would discuss the process. That's what Commissioner Flormont is saying. No. >> No ma'am. What Commissioner Furman said, if I understood correctly, forgive me if I'm wrong, correct me, please. >> You're right. You're right.
>> Is that if the motion to have written signed ballot passes before any voting, okay, you would have a second motion now that sets forth the details. I think his point is if this doesn't pass to begin
with, there's no sense arguing over the details. If it fails, it fails. If it passes before voting, you would set forth the other procedures in case, >> right? And I want to also highlight, you know, if I was the vice mayor, obviously
I want to vote second to last. So that person has an advantage of hearing all the votes. And I think that's the integrity of the process, not necessarily to say to remove the transparency of it. >> But it's right. No, but in a going back
to what the mayor said, in the past, we've had nuances to either the process being hijacked or whatever. I'm I'm paraphrasing, but I would want a process where someone is not influenced by my vote. That's what I'm that's the whole
premise of having a paper ballot is so that there is integrity in you choosing and not having the delayed option of going second to last or third last and hearing what the previous votes were >> but it could I just ask the clerk
>> it doesn't work that way right I mean it could be done alphabetically done it could be done by your sheet 1 through 7 it also could be done by somebody saying, "I make a motion. I make a second. All in favor?" I mean, I don't
think it would be fair at all. I definitely don't want it to be called mayor and the vice mayor get to vote last. No, that's not a fair ballot. That's not a fair vote by any stretch of >> But but now you're questioning every time we vote because that's how we vote.
>> No, but this is a different kind of vote because they're going to run our city. >> You could simply do it if there's a motion in a second. You can simply do it instead of voice vote because you want the votes recorded. You can simply do it by show of hands where everyone raises their hand at the same time that no
one's last and no one's first. You just have a show of hands and people vote either yay or nay on the motion or the next motion or the next motion. Then that preserves everybody votes at the same time even if it's done based on a
motion. It looks like Commissioner Schmid is making seven ballots. >> Vice Mayor >> Muckler's vice mayor is making seven ballots. So >> she's like getting ready for the paper ballot. >> Can we vote on the >> Yeah,
>> to adopt a system of written signed paper ballots subject to a subsequent motion that specifies the details. >> So that's the motion in second. >> Okay. All in favor say I. >> I. I. >> So, >> what's your vote? >> I said I.
>> Okay. So, there's >> So, they're going to pass out the >> We're gonna get it. >> No one opposed. >> Yeah. No, no one opposed. Madam clerk, let mad clerk. >> Wait, Mr. Mr. Turn Commissioner Turnoff opposed. >> Okay. U Commissioner Turnoff opposed. So, 61. Can you can you prepare written? Can you can you prepare the written for
us? >> Say it again. >> Can you prepare the written for us >> here? Oh, >> now now you do the details. >> Oh, okay. >> Okay. All right. So, >> so please write the names on it.
>> Yeah. Yeah, we can write. >> Yeah, we'll write our own. Okay. >> Okay. I'm sorry. The vote was what? >> 61. >> 61. >> Okay. >> Commissioner turnoff opposed. >> Well, it's contingent on the process now, right? >> You now you need a second motion to say what you'll do if you're you know, how
does the process work? Does it it if no one obviously if someone has four votes, that's it. But what will happen if no one has four votes? Do you keep voting until someone gets four votes and all four candidates continue as being able
to receive votes? >> I mean, >> what's going to happen? Do you >> No, no, but what's going to happen? Look, >> you No, no, no, no, no. I know we need we need a motion, but what's going to happen regardless what's whatever is gonna look, we're going to give the paper. They're gonna say our names. It's going to be I mean it is what it is at
that point, right? >> Can you please can we can we do our please um so it's going to come out regardless. I mean like if we would have just raised our hands and what it would have been the same thing, but I'm I'm fine following the process so everybody can see that we're we're moving uh uh as
a as a commission. >> So we'll do that part. So now now now we need a second motion. So >> what is the second >> what is the procedure if there are not a candidate who gets four votes? So if there's a 33, then it's a re then it's a runoff between the two three threes.
>> No, that's >> No, >> Commissioner Smith said the opposite. That's why I'm saying >> So what do you what do you suggest? >> We have to vote again. >> So we vote until somebody gets four. >> Commissioner Smith said all four should continue to be >> correct. You vote until somebody gets
four. >> I mean, frankly, Mayor, let me let me just say >> Excuse me. Excuse me. Please. Please. With all due respect, go ahead. you know, the 10th ballot, >> somebody is, you know,
welcome to, you know, introduce another name. You're really not legally restricted to the four finalists in front of you. >> You're restricted to getting somebody use it more. >> Please don't. That's not up to me.
>> No. Okay. >> Is is the motion Did I hear >> Let's go round one first and see where we go. >> Okay. Who's going to collect these? The clerk. I'll give you mine. >> What is the motion on on the second? >> We'll vote. We'll vote till somebody gets four or something, I guess.
>> And everybody is still out. >> Okay. I make a motion that we'll vote until we vote somebody even if it's 3:00 in the morning because at this rate, it's going to be >> and all four are still eligible. Vice Mayor, >> only four are only four. >> All four. >> The four are still eligible to be >> Okay. Do I get a second?
>> No one is eliminated. >> Okay. Do I get a second? >> Yes. >> Thank you. I did say till 3 in the morning. You agreed to that? >> Yes. 3 in the morning. >> I'm having coffee. >> Can you call the vote on that, please, Mayor? >> And anybody? Well, yeah. Call the vote.
The motion, as I understood it from Vice Mayor, is that if no one gets four votes, that you will continue to vote and any of the four, as Commissioner Smith put it, any of the four finalists are eligible to receive votes until such time as somebody gets four. Is that your
motion, Vice Mayor? >> Yes. >> Mr. Mayor, who second that? >> Uh, Commissioner, >> I second it. >> Okay. All in favor? >> I >> Thank you. I think you have a legal process. >> Before we start, just so we I know Andy
um ends on on February 1st. If we're going to approve on on on the contract, can we have a special meeting that week of February 1st so we can >> before that? Oh, the week of well just the meet leading up meaning that I don't it should be the week of >> Yeah.
>> So we can vote on the contract. Yes. >> You get what I'm saying? I agree. >> So because of all the because I you said before that you want to add additional contents on there and and what have you. I would certainly ask any of you who have any thoughts about what you would or would not like to see in the contract
to let us know >> regardless of who you pick to let us know as soon as possible so we can prepare the draft based on what you want. >> Do that Thursday. Is that or Thursday or the >> Yes. Thursday. >> Thursday. What What day is that?
>> The 29th. Thursday. The 29th is is the next Thursday. >> No, it's the f No, no, no, no. It's the the the week the first week of February. >> February 1st is on >> the contract is over February 1st. So we have to decide before February. >> It's that is that Monday, right? Can we
not have the meeting? >> No, it's a it's a sun February 1st is a Sunday. >> Can we not have Can So we can have the meeting on >> the 29th. >> Well, no, not it can't. It can't be the 29th. It can't be the 29th. I'm saying can we have it >> that Monday or Tuesday? February um
February 2nd. Can we have it on February 2nd? >> Oh, his contract expires the first. Can't wait. Can't we call an executive session when the contract is ready? >> Is that is that an executive session? >> No. >> Okay. Can we pick a manager first and
then if we announce it? >> Whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa, no, no, no, no, no, no, no, no. With all >> due respect, please, please calm down, let us go through this process, please. Okay.
Hang on. You guys done? Thank you. City city attorney city attorney. So the the Okay. I'm I was asking because I know he I don't know why we put it on that Sunday. It should have been like sometime during our week because I assume that we're going to vote on the contract. So I was
saying like because of u can we have it on the on the 2nd just extend them one day so we can vote on it that day that Monday >> why can't we do it January 29th before >> I'm I'm not I'm not available that's saying okay >> just I'm not only asking for if we can make a can we
>> mayor you need to extend it with the interim manager's permission to Tuesday the him extend him to Tuesday >> which excuse me you would need to extend him until Tuesday the 3rd. So if you approve it the night of Monday the
second. >> You get what I'm saying? >> Okay. >> Mr. Mayor, may I just I'm offering an a salute an possible solution. So what I'm saying is I I I hope my colleagues can agree to have whoever is selected be taking the transition position starting
tomorrow so that the whole transition is smooth. Now whether that contract gets signed or when that get contract gets signed that's when his actual or her will >> here's a here's a concern. So we do that we're we're we we have to have a
contract before that happens. No we can't do that. We cannot do that. >> So so that's why I'm saying like is there any anytime next week mayor that you're >> No, that's I'm asking can we Mr. City uh interim city attorney I mean city manager is there is it possible you can avail ourselves for that to to the second? We'll just we'll make a we'll
have a special meeting on the 1st. I mean on the 2nd, but we we're asking can you extend it to the 3rd that that day. You understand what I'm saying? >> That's fe that's fe that's February 3rd that >> 2026. >> 2026. Yes. >> You get what I'm saying?
>> So that's all I'm asking for. So we'll have a meeting on the on the 2nd. He his contract ends on the 3rd. By then we'll have we'll we'll finish up the contract. >> That sounds good to me. >> I think Groundhog Day. >> Okay. Do I have do I have a I Well, I don't I want to make sure we I need a motion basically. Right. I have a Do I
have a Do I have a second? >> I'm motioning that we ex No matter who we choose >> contract by a day, >> no matter who we choose, right? That um we are ex we're we're motioned to extend um Andy's contract two days to the 3. We
have a special meeting on the first to ratify the contract. >> I mean the second the second grounded >> the first Monday in in February >> at night. at night. At night 6:30. >> Okay. >> Do I have a motion? >> I make the motion. >> Do I have a second? >> All in favor say I. Now you can.
>> Okay. I also want to propose. Can you accept? >> I'd like to make >> note the record. He nodded his head. Yes. >> Can I hear Can I read Can I hear the ballots, please? >> Okay. Yeah, let's I'll leave them. >> Well, yeah.
What? >> Apparently, I would have thought so, but it seems that everybody marked their ballot already. So, I think that ship is sailed already. >> Just for formalize it. >> Well, you know, I don't understand why
we can't even do this, right? >> Vice Mayor. >> So, we So, we're She has a question. >> Uh, basically, Commissioner Jean saying now we have to get a motion to vote based on the on the vote you already turned in. >> Yes. Basically, that's basically what she wants to get clarif
>> Oh, no. My question was why can't we do even this right? >> Why can't we >> We can't do anything like right. It's everything's always like a drama. It was not a question to you. It was just like a statement. So now
>> I make the motion to accept the ballot. Second. >> What? >> All in favor? >> Okay. Second or >> seconded. Okay. >> Well, we have to make a motion apparently to vote. Let's do this right
because somebody can come back in a month. She made the motion. She second. Let's vote. All in favor. >> I >> Okay, we haven't we haven't done that yet. Can we >> Excuse me. We haven't
>> I know he hasn't done it. >> I I'm I'm trying not to be have a this perception that I'm overbearing to anyone. So, does that clarify does that clarify your issue, Commissioner? >> Okay. So, we have a motion and a second.
All in favor say >> I. >> All right. Any opposed? Okay. >> Yes. >> Commissioner Shernoff Darvin Williams. Commissioner Florimmon Marlene Monestine.
Commissioner Jean Darvin Williams. Commissioner Smith Rasha Camo. Commissioner Sue Darvin Williams, Commission Vice Mayor Smuckler Darvin Williams. >> Wow. >> Mayor Michael Joseph Marle Monestine.
Mr. Williams has four. >> So I move that we unanimously I move that we unanimously vote for Darvin Williams to become our new city man. >> Congratulations Darvin Williams. Congratulations m >> Mr. Mr. Turnoff. Uh, Commissioner Turnoff just made I don't think they
heard you, Commissioner. >> Okay. I move that we unanimously >> I second. >> We can unanimously >> We can't We can vote. >> You can vote. I mean, like >> you can vote to accept it. >> We can vote, >> but we already voted to accept it. >> All right. The motion, as I understand it,
>> forget it. Turn off. >> We voted to accept it. Yes. Forget it. >> We voted to accept it. >> Wasn't a good one. >> Okay. It was fine. >> But I I I think I think what Commissioner Turnoff, if I may, is trying to say is Mr. Williams had four votes. Um, and what I believe Commissioner
Chernoff is saying, we as a commission need to come together to show that we're going to support Mr. Williams >> in his endeavors as the city manager. So, this is >> parliamentary law. This is called a
motion to approve the nominee by acclamation. Correct. Is the parliamentary. Uh, >> so moved. Mr. Mr. William Mr. Williams is I don't know if he hears this. >> Mr. Williams M >> Mr. Darvin Williams
>> Mr. Williams >> there's Mayor you have a motion for acclamation >> Mr. Mr. Williams if you want to make that motion turn off um >> I move that we ceremoniously all seven of us move to accept Darvin Williams as
our new manager >> I secondcl I second it. >> Is there a second? >> You may do a voice vote on that if you choose. >> All in favor say I. >> I. >> Oppose. >> Thank you. >> Okay.
>> Really, >> Mr. William? Welcome. And if you need help, we're here 120%. Because now we have somebody that's going to lead us to our centennial and to the best city in Dade County. We're
very excited. Do we get to go home now? >> No, no, no, no, no, no. Uh, we have to finish up the agenda. All right. Next is 11.3. Yes. 11.3. Item 11.3, ordinance number 2026-01,
first reading, creating condominium cooperative and homeowner associations transparency and accountability. Sponsored by Commissioner Sue. an ordinance that the mayor and city commission in the city of North Miami Beach, Florida, creating the condominium
cooperative and homeowners associations transparency and accountability ordinance establishing registration and account um requirements for associations requiring disclosure of key documents aligning with the requirements of House
Bill 913205 as adopted by the Florida legislature requiring annual reporting to the state providing for penalties, providing for severability, providing for codification, providing for an effective date. First reading, mayor. >> All right. Is this first reading? Right.
First being first reading, open up for public comment. >> Public comment >> is not open for this ordinance. >> Good evening. If you wish to speak on this item, please come forward. >> All right. Seeing none, public comment is not closed.
>> Um, is this community development? Um, so, uh, for the record, Mitchell Austin, assistant director of community development, the, uh, the microphone is on. Is it on? Okay. >> Oh, sorry. Um,
for the record, Mitchell Austin, assistant director, community development. Uh, the department directors of Ramemed, uh, was working with the commissioner regarding this item. So, I just wanted to state that the the intent as far as I
understand it is for this to mirror uh more or less what uh Miami Dade County does in terms of their community registry. However, that registry currently doesn't cover all of the data points that um is enabled by the Florida
statute. So, this would supplement that uh with those other items. However, the Miami Dade County Registry does cover all um uh communities uh community associations within the county, inclusive of all those within the city
of North Miami Beach. >> Thank you, Mr. Turnoff. >> So, so what is that in English mean to us? Uh in English it means that uh there are a couple a handful of things uh such as
the uh the number of stories and the in the of the buildings and the development and and things of that nature. Technical details which aren't necessarily clearly communicated in the Miami Dade County registry.
>> So ours is stronger. Yes, it would capture those additional data points as enabled by Florida statute. >> So, um, do we have a motion to to discuss or are we >> That's what we're doing right now. >> Okay, great. Um, so I'm May I have Okay,
thank thank you so much, Mr. Austin, for sharing that. So, in July 1st, this the the state house condo ordinance had passed, right? So, we we tried to mirror that and then now that So in the state
there's a lot there's still some holes in there. So I'm trying to also wait for the end of session in March to make sure that we dot our eyes and cross our tees for that. Um hopefully maybe we would have the session close first and then we
could do the second reading. Um, also in the second reading, I'd like to make an amendment that I have spoken to some of the county staff where we can actually share their database. Um, there's a whole database. And the way that the
county does it is they don't do just condos, they also do co-ops, they also do HOAs. And I believe that all of these um can potentially be predatory towards the resident if they're not paying attention, if they're not checking the
budget that is happening. So what we are doing, what we're trying to do is we're trying to open the door so that we can actually support the residents when they are um when they when they purchase a home. so they can take a look at all of
the financials, not get stuck in situations where they actually find out that, you know, there's tons of assessments coming up. That's why they got the property for so so cheap. So, I'm I'm I'm looking at both sides of like the we want to make sure that the
reserves are healthy. you know, they can still defer certain like a portion of it according to the state statute and all that, but I also want transparency so that we know what's going on. And right now, DBPR does not have a good database
as much as Miami date county does. So, by collaborating with Miami Date County, we're spot on. Now, we can go to the website and we're trying to talk to our IT to see if we can link the county's database to our database so that anybody who is interested in buying a condo, a
co-op, or an HOA um property can search for all the details and the budget for each type of property. I'm complete, >> Mr. Smith. >> Okay. the county in I think 2024
initiated this and they charge I think if it's over 25 units they charge an extra $1.50 per unit per building for their fees. It's like $65. So, I hope we can collaborate on this and co-sponsor this because I have done
I haven't done Nancy, my assistant, has done I have um >> all the a list of the condominiums and all the contacts we could get so far. She's been working on this for months. Unfortunately, I got sick, but I'm still planning on having condominium meetings
every four months, every six months at the most to bring them up to date on what's going on. I have been to many of the state and county and Broward County um meetings. Uh, Senator Piso is
extremely he's extremely involved in anything to do with condo and condo law and he picks up his phone and he helps us. One thing I will tell you is that that $150 fee some some of the condos it
might be, you know, if they're not being responsible. Now, we have already, I think, 75. How many do we have that have already registered the condominiums in North Miami Beach? I was given the number this afternoon, but I forgot. Was it 175 or 75? Um, I don't have that
number off the top, >> but quite a few have already registered in North Miami Beach because the law is a state law. It's not something we're initiating. It's a state law. And I think that um the big thing with this, and that's why I think the condominium
meetings are important. The big thing with this is 100% um just getting the word out. It it's going to be a communication. communication so they know the responsibility and and if they follow up
that if they're responsible they'll follow up or their management company will follow up and if they're not responsible we're going to have to chase them but I think the big thing is communication make sure people are aware okay so to address your question about
the fees so whatever fees that Miami date county is charging for them to register um like I said so it's $50 and And then for every room over that is $1.50 for Yes. >> So my point is this. We're not
collecting because we're using Miami Dade County database. >> Yes. No, I mean that's that's what we need to amend because after we got the collaboration with the county. Okay. We talked to the county. We asked them if we can use it. They're happy to
collaborate. Now it's just a matter >> that's fine. And we can also amend it. We can also approve it now and then amend it and then have it be noted. That's fine. You go ahead and and motion >> that we cross out the fee, the $150 fee
because the they're they already I second. >> All right. Um as amended. So I guess we have to vote. >> All right. So all in favor say I. >> I. >> Any oppose? Does oppose? Now somebody
wants to call the question. >> So um yeah. So, and and to address this situation where I understand that NY's been putting a lot of work into it and you have too. The thing is that it had nothing to do with the law. You had you wanted to communicate with the condos.
So, I I would like to extend my invitation. Um I have reached out to Condo Connect. We're going to have an event at the Williams uh in March. Our own like you know we went to the Aventura one. We're hosting one here in
March. I would like to welcome you and if you'd like to reach out to all the condos that you have in your list, you're welcome to do that. So, that's uh that's all from me. Um am I allowed to motion to approve it? >> Move to approve ordinance >> as amended.
>> Second. >> Madam clerk, do the roll call. >> Commissioner Florimmon, >> yes. >> Commissioner Jean, >> yes. Commissioner Smith, >> Commissioner Sue, >> yes. Commissioner Shernaw, >> yes. >> Vice Mayor Smuckler, >> yes. Mayor Michael Joseph, yes. It passes.
>> To introduce resolution number R26-09. 11.4. >> Second. >> 11.4. Resolution R 2026-09 supporting the display of the national motto. In God we trust in the city commissioner cha city commission
chambers sponsored by commissioner Sue. A resolution the mayor and city commission in the city of North Miami Beach, Florida supporting the display of the national motto in God we trust in the city commission chambers providing for incorporation of recitals and
providing for an effective date. Does anyone have any questions or should I start by sharing? >> Go ahead, Mr. Mayor. >> No, it's your item. >> Your item. >> Okay. Um All right. So, I have had I've asked staff to provide
this document to you, which is the list of cities that are participating in this um in God we trust motto. Um, I also have uh an attorney's opinion, a legal opinion about it with various different reasons why this is not a constitutional
violation. And uh with that, >> excuse me, sir, >> Pacific Justice Institute. >> What is that? >> It is a legal entity that Do you know them, Mr. Attorney?
>> I'm not personally familiar with Pacific Justice Institute. Okay. >> Well, yeah. What's the organization? >> Excuse me. >> What's the organiz I mean, >> of course, I mean, if it's a company, it's a legal entity, right? But like, is it a um because could be a hate group.
It could be someone that's No, I don't know what it is. >> Got it. Got it. >> It could be it could be um like flagged by the Southern Southern Poverty Law Center as being considered a a hate group. So, I don't know if if you can elaborate, that's all. >> Okay. So this is a legal opinion that has been that has been used as a
reference because not so much the institution itself but also the case laws that have happened in the past about using the situation. I mean using this uh motto in the city and therefore um this is about promoting a national
motto that not only um so our state in Tallahassee that is our state motto in um Miami date county had also adopted this back in December of 2014
and I see that seeing that since John Lockach Benjamin Franklin as well as Thomas Jefferson we have all agreed that the rights that we have in our constitution are ordained by God and not
by man. That means that our right, our freedom of speech, our right to um to the pursuit of happiness, all of these are rights that are ordained by God. So that's how our constitution is based.
And um I'd like to ask for your support on this item. I believe that in a day and age where we have situations of anti-semitism um even with the chosen God's children
um are being bullied and being I would say less more than bullied. I think that when we show our support in the in the portion of God and their children, I think that this would be something that would be um showing our strength in that
aspect. And I know a lot of you are also you know Christians and Jews. I think that it would be very it would be clear that we are supporting that. Now, a lot of people asked me this question that it
is a um that there's a separation of church and state, right? And I understand where you're saying that that means that we don't respect the pope in the court of law or I mean in the in you know on this day is you don't have to
this is not the same thing. So I just wanted to make sure that that was clear. >> With that said, I'd like to motion to approve. >> Second. Thank you. Any >> I would like the attorney to speak on this and just put it on record a few
things and I would like to ask for people that are atheists or people that are Buddhist or however something else. What what will the will they be offended? I mean, listen, thank God I believe in God, what I'm going through,
but I I just I'd like your opinion about about the display because that from day one that's always been in doctrine. You know, the church and state doesn't go together. I know it's on the dollar and I know we say it fudge, but
but displaying it as a >> Mr. Attorney, if I may, >> I'd like you to give an illegal opinion and not your opinion. >> Okay. I think it was my question for him. >> No, I understand. >> I I Well, >> I think this is my >> Okay.
>> Actually, I I I spoke to him earlier this afternoon and his opinion, his illegal opinion and his opinion are all the same. >> No, I spoke to him. I spoke to him as well, but I wanted on record for the public to hear when we vote what our
attorney says. Thank you all on my question. >> Um, thank you. And Commissioner Smith, let me try to respond. And u I I I this wouldn't be on the agenda if we had
rejected it from our office as illegal. Having said that, I I I have to say, Commissioner Sue, that your comments accomp I don't know who the Pacific Justice Institute is. I have the same
concerns the mayor does about who they are. Um again I I didn't reject it as illegal but your your comments that the constitution derives from God and not
from the consent of the governed which is what our foundational documents actually say. The the governed are not God. The governed are the people. And I do think
that it might be in the context of defending any lawsuit that might be brought by someone. Uh it would be preferable if you at least withdrew
those comments. So that doesn't stand as the justification for adopting this to display in God we trust in chambers because the foundational documents that were
drafted by Thomas Jefferson and John Adams and others specifically talk about the consent of the governed and I said that I this could be objection
ctionable. Somebody could sue us. It is my belief legally and personally as a former president of the American Jewish Congress for the Southeast region where separation of church and state was
our foremost uh concern most of the time. Someone could object to this. the comments about Christians and Jews. There are Muslims in our community. There are Hindus in our community. There
are uh undoubtedly some tauists in our community. And there are people, as Commissioner Smith says, who choose not to believe in God or a god or any gods or anything of the kind. And they all
have rights, too. I approved this because if you pardon the colloquialism in a legal opinion, the horse has left the barn on this one. In God we trust is on our currency.
It is on our legal tender and approximately the year that I was born, the longtime pledge of allegiance to the flag of the United States was amended to insert the words under God and that was
challenged and that survived legal challenge. So I did decline to say that this would be a violation. I believe because it is on our legal tender that it would probably survive a
legal challenge which could be brought. But I have to say, Commissioner, that when we had the conversation, I mean, you sent me, it wasn't really a convers, you sent me the document, I reviewed it, but a statement that it's being posted
because the legal rights of the citizens of the United States in our Constitution, our declaration, etc. derived from God and not from the people is something that
could be used against us if someone were to bring a lawsuit and say it's not just the motto that we're adopting to put up in our chambers, but that it's being done to achieve some other purpose which
might not be viewed as as legal. So I I think this is a legal resolution. I you would have heard from me otherwise, but I would ask that you consider withdrawing those comments. >> I I I withdraw from those withdraw those
comments. >> Thank you. Please let the record reflect that the the the resolution is to adopt and post in our chambers something that is posted and and written on the legal tender of the
currency of the United States of America. >> I have motion to approve this resolution. >> I thought we did it already. No, amended it. >> Oh, we amended. No, I just backed up. >> Oh, the record was Dan's. Okay.
>> The commissioner withdrew some remarks that might have >> supported someone if someone chooses to challenge it. with the remarks withdrawn, the narrow resolution as drawn as presented
to you which states that we should post something that is already on the legal tender of the United States. The resolution stands and it is my opinion that without complicating factors, a
resolution that says we should put something that already exists on all legal tender in the United States of America in and of itself with no complicating factors is something that would survive legal
challenge if someone does bring >> Excuse me, Mr. Mayor. I I question that anybody could withdraw what they said because isn't it the transcript of what we say goes down verbatim sir it cannot
be stricken where it's not reported but the idea that comments can be withdrawn the withdrawal itself is on the record it doesn't change what was said it does
indicate that it's being as a matter of record, the comment is being receded from. Someone could still say, "Well, that wasn't what was first said." But the fact that it was withdrawn
on the record would at least assist in any defense we had to make. >> Okay. >> You're you're correct. It's not like blanked out or redacted. That's 100% correct, sir. Okay. So, we have a second and
>> yep. Uh, all in favor say I. >> I. I. >> Any oppose? All right. Passes. Next item is 11.5 >> five move introduce for resolution number R 2026-10 11.5.
>> Was there a second? >> Second. >> Okay. Item 11.5, resolution number R2026-10, authorizing and approving a settlement in the matter of Crystal Clark versus City of North Miami Beach, sponsored by the city attorney's office. Resolution of the mayor and city commission of the
city of North Miami Beach, Florida, authorizing and approving a settlement in the amount of Crystal Clark versus City of North Miami Beach in the amount of $67,500, providing for incorporation of recitals, and providing for an effective date. Mayor, if I might just very briefly,
this matter was a personal injury matter. It went to mediation. Um, our office participated in the mediation. The settlement reached at mediation was $67,500. That exceeds the authority granted. Uh,
it's 25,000 to the attorney and manager. It's 50,000 up to um a committee composed of the mayor and manager and the mayor's designate. This is in excess of that. This is a woman who stepped into an open I call it a
manhole cover. It's it was a utility thing um on our property that was not apparently um closed properly, stepped in it, had a broken leg, missed work for five months.
Uh the 67,000 was in our opinion a reasonable sum. It was they uh started much higher. Uh we settle these cases to try to save money on attorney's fees. You don't want to spend all that money and then risk a loss on top of it. So we
think it's a defensible amount and it will save the city money to not have to litigate it further. Uh we believe it's fair and reasonable. We ask you to approve it. Move to approve resolution number R2026-10. >> Second.
>> All right. Uh all in favor say I. >> I. >> I. >> All right. Next item uh 116 mayor and that is >> pardon >> 116. You need a motion to introduce. >> Motion to introduce. >> Second. All right. >> Okay. Um
>> so this is the >> resolution number R-2026-12. >> I'm sorry. No dash R2026-12. >> A resolution of the mayor and city commission in the city of North Miami Beach, Florida, standing in solidarity with the Iranian people in their nationwide uprising, condemning the
systemic violence and reported mass killings of unarmed civilians. urging the federal government to provide emergency communication support and targeted measures to protect human life, supporting the democratic aspirations of the Iranian people, providing for
conflicts, providing for scriveners errors, providing for severability, and providing for an effective date sponsored by Commissioner Sue. >> Move to approve. >> Second. >> All in favor say I. I. I. >> Next item is appointments. Can we do a
appointment by group? like reading all um can I motion to approve all the appointments as listed on the agenda? >> I'll read them into the record if that's uh your desire. >> I I need a motion. >> Move to approve. >> Move to >> All right, m Mr. City attorney.
>> Okay. Item 131 was moved up and voted. Item 132, reappointing Jordan, looks like it says Desnik as an exeicio uh member to the Eastern Shores First Edition Security Guard Special Taxing District. Item 13.3,
reappointing Jane Pagino to the beautifification committee. Item 13.4, reappointing Natasha Allinger to the beautifification committee. Item 13.5 reappointing Francis Rea >> RA
>> RA that's two okay to the beautifification committee and item 13.6 appointing Naomi Blemer to the planning and zoning board. That's the added item. >> Move to approve.
>> Second. Second. >> I We >> already discussed it, didn't we? >> Yeah. Well, no, we we just go over it. It's It was informal. >> Yeah. >> 26. Yes. >> I have a motion.
>> I I'd like to make a motion >> March 26. >> What's the date? >> March 26th. >> March 26. Thursday. Second. which is our fourth. It's >> right here. >> Yeah, it's already
>> All in favor say I. I. All right. Next item. When was that scheduled? Previously, >> it was going to be that the >> be the 17th of March. >> From the 17th to the 26th. Yeah. That Thursday. >> Okay. The next one is the charter review committee. Um
>> we need to submit names. So, can we have I I understand we have to submit names. >> I might not be able to be here. >> No, no, I understand. But like I know um >> we have to submit names to the to the charter committee. Um madame clerk can you let's
>> can we can like for the next meeting can we all agree to submit to formally submit our names so they can be so we can vote on we're just going to submit them for vote on we all have to vote on so on the next commission meeting madam madam clerk >> I'm listening. >> So next commission meeting we'll we'll submit we're going to submit all our names for to be for the charter review
committee. So, it'll be placed on the agenda. Submit before. Did I already give you a name? >> Didn't we do it or >> No, but we're gonna No, we're gonna It's gonna be formally done and we're going to be voted up at the next commission. >> Will be on the agenda. >> At the next commission. >> Okay. Can you So, let me know if I did give you a name.
>> She'll let you know. >> I think I did and I don't remember. >> Mr. Mayor, >> I'll come. >> So, I just want to get my colleagues you we all on on board of what the deadline is. >> Yes. >> Yes. No, no, no. I mean, I just want to state it on the record. We must submit the all the changes that is going to the
referendums and all that that's going to on the ballot by July 24th or the supervisor of election will not take anything else. So that's the dead that's the cut off. I just want us to look into that and work backwards when any of any of the changes are going to be made
being submitted to us approved by us to get on the ballot. All right. So, we're submitting today's next >> commission mayor for the uh for that meeting. We will work with the clerk and work backwards and develop a timeline. Typically, I would be the one who meets
with the charter committee. I'm happy to undertake >> going forward and we'll bring a proposed timeline to the next meeting when the appointments are made. >> Okay. >> All right. Next. Next item is 15.3 charter compliance under the council
manager form of government. Thank you so much. >> This is a a pretty difficult conversation for me. I'm also, as you guys know, I'm the newest one on the council. So, I want to make sure that I let you know that I am bringing this
forward thoughtfully and with restraint. This is not a personal matter and it is not a conclusion. I see this as a governance issue. As commissioners, our responsibility is to the institution itself to ensure our
charter framework is functioning as intended and our processes protect the city, our employees and this body. We operate under a council manager form of government for a reason to maintain a
clear separation between legislative direction and administrative execution. When those lines are clear, everyone is protected. When they become unclear, even unintentionally, risk increases.
That risk can take many forms, including operational confusion, morale issues, or legal exposure. Over time, concerns have come to my attention and maybe some of you as well,
suggesting that there may be uncertainty about how these boundaries are being applied in in practice. I want to be very clear. I'm not making findings, assigning intent, or alleging wrongdoing because I do not have the
facts. However, unresolved concerns involving governance roles and staff interactions create exposure for the city if they are not addressed through an objective and impartial process.
This is a sensitive area by its nature. I would not be a it would not be appropriate for staff to be placed in the position of evaluating elected officials and it would not be fair to any elected official for questions to linger without
clarity or facts. At this point, context matters. The mayor serves as chair and plays a central role in the operations of this commission. Given that structure ordinary internal clarification
channels are not sufficient to resolve questions of this nature that does not suggest wrongdoing. I simply it simply underscores the need for neutrality. For that reason, I believe the
responsible course of action is for the city commission to engage an independent third-party reviewer selected directly by this commission and operating outside the city attorney's office to conduct a
limited fact focus review centered on charter compliance and governance practices. The scope should include confidential staff interviews, document review, and any other factf finding necessary to
clearly understand the current practices and expectations. The purpose is straightforward. To establish facts, clarify expectations and either confirm that current practices
are appropriate or identified adjustments that protect everyone involved. This structure ensures neutrality. It protects staff. It protects elected officials and it protects the city.
I bring this forward in the spirit of responsibility, not accusation. I look forward to hearing my colleagues thoughts on how to best proceed. Thank you. Well, through the mayor,
you know, mayor, there's been rumors going around this week that haven't been pleasant. And I think if the rumors turn out to be something that is factual, then there's a very valid point made
here. I don't listen to rumors cuz everybody has a different interpretation of what they hear. It's like that game you play in a slumber party where you start with a sentence and pass it the whole way
around the circle and by the time it gets back to you, it's a completely different sentence. >> Telephone. >> Is that what it's called? Telephone. Okay. I didn't know it had a name. But the rumors are strong that some of the employees have been intimidated and
yelled at. And if that's the case, we're not allowed. And I don't even have to get justification. And I know myself, I don't give anybody direction. I make Andy crazy because I do it through the manager. Could he please check this or
the clerk? Could she please? I The clerk says I Well, I don't do that, but if you need me to do that, I do because you're one of my three charter officers. So, would you please? So, I I don't see anything wrong with finding out the
truth. Was there belligerance going on? And was an employee felt did an employee felt that they had to stay home the next day because they were I mean these are rumors
because they were yelled at and they were told a certain direction. And if that's the truth then we need to put a stop to it. Number one. And number two, I believe, I don't know, the attorney would tell me better,
but I've always been afraid because I've been threatened that it's the state law that you're not allowed to give direction to anybody but your three charter officers. Maybe it's in our charter you're not allowed to. I don't know. >> It's our charter. >> But I will tell you from the day I was
elected and heard that I never did anything different. So, and I don't know what the repercussions are if you break the charter, but I don't like the fact that rumors go around and taint our city. It taints our city. Let's just find out
the truth. I don't know if it needs an independent or whatever. I don't even know how that works. But that's what I know about this conversation, and I don't think we should let it just go under the rug. Oh, go ahead.
>> Thank you, Mr. Mayor. What I want to say is as we open the chapter to a new city manager, um there's parameters in place, right? Um there's EEOC, there's an HR department, there's transparency in that way. There's a lot of processes that
processes that we have to follow. Another thing is um this kind of bleeds into the other discussion item that I had um for protocol because there's a lot of things that we're doing from this this this side of the day is that side
that need to be in compliance, right? Um, so I think that hearsay is something that we need to be very cautious with, but I also think that employees need to know the proper protocol on what to do because we're we're all here to serve
the city of North Miami Beach. And whether that's from an elected position or you're hired to do a job, follow that protocol. Um, that's why we have an HR department. And if there's a grievance, then the grievance needs to go through the proper channels. Um, that way we're not pointing the fingers and saying, "I
heard this, I heard that." Because when you add hearsay, then you give you give light to something that we as a city needs to move forward from, which is moving forward with a new city manager who is going to help us in in the mission that the city has to do. So I
think I want to cautious us with hearsay is one and the second thing is as it relates to proper protocol within the institution that's why you have these mechanisms in place for employees whether it's whistleblower whether it's hearsay whatever it is harassment there
are proper channels that any institution has in place for employees to follow. So I want to cautious us caution us in uh fingerpointing and also really shifting the narrative to where it needs to be which is the city of North Miami Beach. That's one. But also I think there needs
to be a a bigger conversation with protocol. Um even from ceremonial functions like for example we had the Asian um festival recently. Other cities will recognize it for our own elected officials. Um th those are all things that we need to be compliant about and
have a really a bigger conversation to how do we respect each other in this role. Thank you. >> No, we had an event like for example there's a lot of protocol that we need to establish within this board as well and we had guests. So even when we have
guests from different cities, different um state officials, whatever, what is the protocol? Who handles those protocols? Right? Those are things that we need to address because as we move forward, we have to move forward in a more compliant way in in all regards that we that we're running the city. So
whether if whether it's an event policy, whether it is um giving directive through the charter, whatever those implications are, we can't single out one element and not cover them all. So that's why I was also proposing that we do have some sort of protocol that the
next city manager will help us establish as well to create those safeguards for all of us so that we can kind of you know stay in bound. >> Got it. Okay. >> Um you know I echo the sentiments of
Commissioner Jean. We we have a new city manager coming in. Um during our commission reports we talked about a new year and really moving forward in a positive direction. Um so you know I I think we we've had so much
interums in our in in in the management position you know that sometimes someone may be handling a particular project or the manager may have someone working a particular uh uh issue that that we
asked from the deis and and and and and things of that sort may lead to speaking to someone else right uh depending on what it is, but now we're going to have someone that is in the seat as the city
manager who gets to direct and uh you know where this city goes from here on out. One of the things that we've we've been asking for for a while is uh protocol, processes, procedures, protocol. Everything from how we run our meetings,
how we get items on the agenda, you know, who do we speak to for this, who do we speak to for that. I know that sometimes the chief of staff position was one that was utilized uh in the past to um encourage communication between
the manager's office and the um and the uh elected officials. Um depending on, you know, how the manager operates, they may want to speak directly to the uh commission on all matters, on all things. um you know and not have the
commission speak to even the chief of staff, right? So I think we offer the opportunity to this new um manager to establish protocols and look for areas where we can bridge the gap and and move this city forward. I think that's the best course of action. Thank you.
>> I'd like to >> Thank you. Um, so I think there's a difference between protocol for us like what you're all talking about like what happens at an event and
who gets called and who doesn't get called and what the way we treat we're supposed to be treating employees. >> When I say protocol, I I want to be clear on the uh on the definition. >> Protocol for everything. Protocol on how you put items on the agenda. protocol on
if you need something. >> I don't think that that's what Commissioner Sue is talking about. I think it's just >> two different subjects. >> No, no, but I also included protocol on who do you talk to for certain things depending on the project, depending on the issue that may from the manager's
office be handed to someone, right? So, we may have a call from a particular person from the manager's office about a particular issue, right? And we need to respond to them. >> But if they reached out to us, of course, we have to respond to them. But um if if including myself, if any of the
seven of us is treating any one employee or all of the employees wrong, then that's that's illegal, improper, immoral. That's completely wrong. And um if if one of us is doing that, then I I
I don't have a problem with it being looked into. And if it's if it and if and if we're wrong or you know if our vote is wrong, then it's wrong. And if and if it comes out that someone's done something wrong, then then absolutely
that's that's horrible. But um I don't I don't see why we shouldn't do this. No, I agree with what you're saying, uh, Vice Mayor, and that's that's the point that I'm making is that whether an employee feels intimidation, hearsay, whistle, any of those things h they the
employees have their own mechanisms to be able to report. Now, the question is, do they feel comfortable enough to be able to use those mechanisms that are already in place to express their grievance? So those mechanisms are in
place and if there is an employee who feels that they've been suppressed, whatever the case may be, there there is already a protocol to how that person is supposed to report that. Now, to Commissioner Sue's point about having a third party come in and do a more audit
or more um you know, forensic audit of you know, just like we we did that in the police department when we had a chief and we had an incoming city manager and they did a full investigation within the police department to ask people what was the sentiments there. I do agree with Commissioner Furmont in that in having a
new city manager allowed that person to have a more holistic approach to how they look at all these areas. not just how what we're supposed to do as it relates this is charter um charter members are supposed to keep us in that
those um parameters but outside of that there has to be protocols on the broader stroke of things because it's there are different areas that are bleeding into others and we're not being as transparent as we need to right now at this moment
>> let me just say reality and and what is possible are two different things. People are afraid of their job in this economy where you can't get a job. So, they might have mechanisms in place, but I think it's
our duty if we hear something going on to our employees and they didn't report it. I think it's up to us to find out what the truth is. But either 18 years ago, I was trained wrong. I said to the attorney this week, the eminest Howard
Leonard, every word he taught me was true. Every single sentence he said to me was true. But it doesn't work that way anymore. Doesn't work that way in North Miami Beach. Thank God our new manager has big shoulders because he's
got a lot to put on them. A lot. No one, None of the seven of us put on an event. None of us. All seven of us put on the event because if it's not in the budget and if we didn't prove the money, you can't put on the event.
So, it's different for me. I'm old. It is what it is. It's wrong. It's wrong. I know it's wrong. I know it looks wrong to the public. I know it's wrong. I've been around a long time and I know the difference between right and
wrong. And let me tell you something. You can't tell somebody else to have values, to have morals. You can't I'm married 60 years. I can't tell him what to do. You can only
take care of yourself. But what we're doing in this city, what I see happening, thank God we have a strong new manager. And thank God that six of us said we'd work together.
Okay. We, you know, Mr. Mayor, I'd like to say one thing in public with a lot of respect because I think what you did tonight with the with the manager was exceptionally well done, >> but you're the tular head
>> as a mayor. You're you're held to higher stand. >> Can I say can I say one thing? Can I say one thing? >> You sure can. >> So, we having this discussion. I um I understand that. I understand your standpoint >> cuz as you're ahead, I I want you to have the most respect. >> I
I don't the what I think happens is that they you guys see the you I've seen other people in this position, how they've utilized it, how they how they utilize the bully pulpit, and I don't think I'm being held by that
standard. I'm being held by just just a standard specifically towards me in a very how how can I put this a more skewed approach because if I look at how the prior the prior more tenured uh mayors
have been I've tried to stay stay away from all that like I've seen a lot of I've seen a lot of things or I saw a lot of things that they did that I didn't think was proper to be quite frank or what or what have you and I've tried to steer away from that mostly for the simple fact that I want us to have a more smooth commission meeting or what
have you. But even even though I stayed away from that and I've tried to like, you know, make my own path or what have you, I'm not being held by what they were able to do by no means. They've done they have been able though the last few managers that had tenure meaning that they had uh more than a couple of
years on their position were able to do extraordinary things that I would never dream of doing because one I thought it was not proper, not right. it wasn't conducive to having, you know, a very working commission. Um, two, it just
wasn't in my nature to do, right? So, I know that I'm under a microscope, as you pointed out. No matter what I do, there's going to be detractors, there's going to be supporters or what have you, and I'm trying to do the best I can with what I have. This is my my first year and really moving in that process. I
voted the way I voted because at the end of the day is that because you brought you brought it up as an example, right, about how the the process was and I and I and I kept it very transparent and I'm to my detractor, they won't care how I did it. They'll just be like, ah, he was trying to do something, you know, like
schemy or whatever. That's just the way that these people see it or what, right? Or these individuals see it. At the same time, I'm glad that you saw that I was keeping the process open. I was being very transparent. I express my standpoint about where my values stand or whatever. I know there was an a vote
of acclam was it acclamation? What was it? >> Yeah, >> acclamation. And I stood to I stood to those ideals just like everyone has stuck to those ideals and and let's say for example a property development they just even though it was like it was something that we all were favorable for. There was like I I'm not
>> Mr. Mayor. Can we get back to the subject please? >> Okay. >> He has his time to talk. No, no. As No, wait. To your point. See, to your point, >> different standard. So, go ahead. >> Thank you so much. >> And I'm not finished. He interrupted me. I >> No, no, it's diff. Well, like I said,
you were able to speak, but like I said, different standard. >> Yeah, no question about it. We were raised differently in different ways of life. But here's the thing, you know, we went to a retreat. How much did that retreat cost? I say 50,000, 70,000, 100,000. We went
to retreat for two days that we're all going to be one. We're going to all be one. That was less than six months ago. Now we're voting on the most important vote and we're going to interview the people. And I don't know your circumstances.
I don't know. Maybe you had a court case because you're an attorney. Maybe you had family things. But that was up to the city to get a date where the seven of us could when the se four people could come. Four we I've had seven where
four people could come so that we could do it in the public together. Hear your question, hear your answer. I I got so upset two weeks ago. I got a fever. I said, "You know what? No more. No more. It's not You're not going to grab my
health for this." But we're supposed to do as a team with our own individual ideas with our own individual drives and in the end when it comes down to something that makes a difference for the city. We all
did it. It was your idea. Thank you for bringing it. The Asian thing was very successful. Thank you. But everybody should have been recognized. I I didn't quite hear what um Commissioner Jean said about being recognized, but my new
haircut. >> It's not easy for me to hear, >> but um but I want to say to you that I I hope with a new manager, we could be a new commission. I hope we could work together better. I hope we could give
other people a chance to shine with us shining with them. That's what my hope is. I see I listen I've been around a long time and I've been here a long time. I've been 60 years in that in North Miami Beach. Well, if
I'm married 60 years, I probably been there 55 and I've been up here almost 20. I I see a direction that we need to reverse. We need to fix it. And we have somebody that's here ready and willing and able
to fix it. and I hope it this will be the best year North Miami Beach ever had. Thank you. >> Thank you. May I um Thank you so much. >> Wait, let the mayor finish what? >> Sand. Go ahead. Commissioners.
>> Thank you, sir. All right. So, um, just to address the protocol that Commissioner Jean was talking about, it was because like I had introduced commissioners from other cities prior to our commissioners and that the protocol I had no idea of. Of course, like when we're when we're recognizing diplomats,
this is just another side conversation because I think she asked about that which has nothing to do with this issue. But um so with that said um I I'm I want to let you know that the reason why I know we're having a new manager come in
and I think that this gesture is all more of a support for the manager and the employees. If we wait for an employee to decide that he wants to go to HR and report and instead somebody told him and gave him an idea or her an
idea that hey you know what the city is doing something wrong and you can file a lawsuit let's do this let's show our extension out to them that we are willing to do this third party you know this third party investigation so I
motion that the city commission engage an independent third-party reviewer selected directly by this commission with respect to procurement guidelines and operating entirely outside the city attorney's office to conduct a limited
fact-focus review of the governance and charter related concerns raised regarding staff interactions. The scope of this engagement shall include confidential staff interviews, document review and other factf finding necessary
to clearly understand current practices and expectations. The firm retain must possess specific expertise in municipal governance and charter compliance. The review shall be conducted in an expedited basis with a written report
submitted to the commission prior to the next regularly scheduled meeting in all events no later than February 13th, 2026. This motion is made to protect city staff, preserve the integrity of the city's governance structure, and ensure that issues affecting the
operation of the city are addressed promptly, objectively, and transparently. May I have a second? Mayor, it's on the agenda. It's only a discussion item. >> So, so may may I ask a may I ask a
question? Um, and it's actually an idea that Commissioner Jean just put into my head. Um, uh, back a few years ago, uh, our then manager did that whole thing at the police department like you had
mentioned. So, we have a new manager coming in. I'm sure he's going to meet with the employees. Can't the manager just hire a firm? Like, do we do we have to do this or can it come from the
manager? >> No. Yeah, we can. As long as it's independent of anybody else in here and and I'm sure with his judgment, we can do that. >> No, I'm just saying can't the can't the manager just if he chooses, can't the manager just hire a firm and and do
that? >> All right. All right. So >> hey, >> okay. So >> if he chooses >> Okay. So this is this is cuz in a weird in a weird way I in a weird way I understand I
understand that Pandora's box you want to open. >> I do. I do. Um but at the same time I gota like as you pointed out I have to I have to lead in a a more cognitive approach. I gota leave it in the cons more
cognitive approach. Um, so I mean like I understand what you guys are saying. I think there's a consensus to allow the manager to the new one to look into this issue or like to do the same assessment. Is that what you're saying? >> If he >> if he if she chooses or he chooses
>> according to procurement >> we don't have to direct the manager or not. If the manager chooses to do it that's on him. >> No no no. Let the >> remember we're one of seven that can direct the manager. I'm saying but we don't but we're not we don't have to
direct him if he wakes up next week and says I want to do it >> he can do it whether we direct him to >> well we don't want him to come under duress right folks meaning if one person wants it >> if he if he if he wants to make that decision let him make the decision
>> all right that fine >> next next item >> I made a motion so I'd like to see if I get a second >> but you can't on our discussion >> yeah Well, >> she does she does she have a does she have a second or we could just move on?
>> All right. No second. Let's move on. >> No second. >> No second. Move on, please. >> All right. Next. Next. >> We already handle Did we handle the protocol aspect? >> Mr. Mayor, I think also >> you know I'll I'll second discussion purposes.
>> We just discussed that. >> We just we just move >> she's motioning for a vote, not necessarily for discussion. We're >> okay. I'll I'll do the second to see if there's a vote. And if there isn't a vote and the manager chooses to do it, then that's on him. >> At first place, we don't know how much
it is. If it's under $50,000, he has a right to do it himself. >> Second place, after this conversation, maybe there'll be a lot more conversation this week in House that things will come to light. >> I mean, I hope >> colleagues, can I can I mention something? I the the last thing I want
to do right now is to have the manager make a decision to investigate a situation that involves the mayor when the mayor is Hang on. Hang on. So So that is the last thing I want to do. >> Wait, wait. You That's not what you're saying. You're saying you want to open
up for this person to do a fact. Are you trying to do an investigation on specifically towards me? >> No. What I'm saying is you were one of six one of seven person who is not supporting him. If he actually does investigation on you, that doesn't look good, right? >> I think he should just do investigation.
Okay, Commissioner Sue. >> Yes, Commissioner Sue. Let me let me let me just say no because we have a motion. Commissioner, we have a motion. We have a second. We have to vote. Commissioner Sue, >> um,
if the manager chooses, if we if we do this, let's give them the manager direction. And if it passes, let's give him direction to do an investigation to see if there's any particular one of us, all all of us,
doing the wrong thing, what it is. And if if it doesn't pass and if the manager chooses to do it, I hope it's on all seven of us and not one of us in particular. >> Yes. And and what I'm trying to say is I don't want to prop us against like have
the manager be propped up against somebody. You know what I mean? So because of the support that we were talking about I I really don't I don't want it to be oh he's deciding because I didn't vote to support him in the >> said that. >> No I just said because you voted no.
>> Mr. Mayor you voted no when we were all going to stand behind. >> Mr. Mayor can the attorney clarify the motion so we know what's happening >> before he does that. Mr. May I >> because I know you guys are going to >> from the conversation from from what Commissioner Sue brought up. This was
this was about processes procedures on how we operate as a municipality. Okay. This wasn't specific to any one person. >> Thank you. >> This was about process and procedure about how we operate as a municipality.
What processes do we have when speaking to the manager's office? What processes do we have when we speak to the attorney's office? This is an all-encompassing look into how we can do better about making sure that there are clear No, I'm
just I'm I'm That's what I heard. That's what I heard. And so for for me, that's why I said the manager himself has the he has the autonomy >> up to 50,000 to make that determination and look into how we can improve our
processes. you. So, I really I'm I'm I don't really understand what this is all about. I I >> Hold on. Hold on. >> What you're asking of the new manager then by saying that is to investigate his new bosses.
>> That's what we're saying. We're some in and I understand where you're coming from and what you're trying to do here, but this is airing our dirty laundry. Right. But this is >> Look, I
>> All right. I I want to move on. I want to move on. I I don't know where Commission uh Commissioner um >> Vice Mayor >> Vice Mayor Vice Mayor Spucker has seen it, but like I've heard a couple of things that because I voted no.
No, no, no. But that's but that's >> Oh, I'm not I'm not I'm not saying that because because of how you >> No, no, no. That's what that's what Commissioner said. No, no, no, no, no, wait, no, no. Wait, >> no. >> She said Yeah. Like that's what I'm saying. Like it get Look, what I will say is what I will say is this. Look,
right now. >> Yes. Thank you. And what I'm saying is if we vote to investigate ourselves, this is how it's going to be transparent. We can't have him come in and say, "You know what? I want to investigate you, the bosses." So that's what I'm trying to tell you is we need
to agree to be transparent about the investigation. That's >> what I I don't care if I'm investigated. And I do want to recognize um Commissioner Dr. Michelle Powell. >> Hi
I love that title, Commissioner Doctor. >> Oh, Commissioner, your wife of our manager. >> And and the reason why I bring it up is because I think that it is most appropriate that we show that willingness to do >> Let's move towards a vote.
>> Yes. Okay. >> Okay. Let's just move. >> So, I have a first and a second. Do I have a >> commissioner? I'm sorry, but you don't call for votes. the presiding. >> Oh, I'm sorry. Yes, Mr. Mayor. >> Excuse me.
>> Okay. I I This just seems very awkward to me, but okay. Like, >> I This is just very strange to me, but okay. I've never se I've never seen this done before.
>> Okay. So, >> I I can read it again if you'd like because I have it written down. >> The whole thing? >> No. Oh, no, no, just the motion. >> Oh, okay. >> Okay. I motion that the city commission engage an independent third-party reviewer selected directly by this sur
selected by the city manager to with respect to procurement guidelines and operating entirely outside the city attorney's office to conduct a limited fact focused review of the governance and charter related concerns raised
regarding staff interactions. The scope of this engagement shall include confidential staff interviews, document review, and any other factf finding necessary to clearly understand current practices and expectations. The firm retained must possess specific expertise
in municipal governance and charter compliance. The review shall be conducted by on an expedited basis with a written report submitted to the city commission prior to the next regularly scheduled meeting and in all events no later than February 13, 2026. This
motion is made to protect the city staff, preserve the integrity of the city's governance structure, and ensure that in issues affecting the operation of the city are addressed promptly, objectively, and transparently. All
right. >> Yeah, >> I don't have a problem with that. >> Call the question. >> All in favor? >> I >> I >> I said no. >> No, for me it doesn't make any sense. But
>> doesn't make any sense, but okay. >> Okay. >> Does the motion uh is the vote complete? >> Yes. >> Yes. Um >> if you want to report by a certain date
>> who is uh selecting >> who is >> the manager independent outside person >> how's how's the manager selecting if it's independent >> like it's going through procurement >> the the >> it's going through procurement >> that's what I'm saying we have to think okay >> it's going through procurement so it can't be
>> you gave a you gave a time certain for this to happen the manager technically comes in on the second or the you're based on the time and based on the time frame that you that's giving him two weeks to bring forth a firm to go through the procurement process
because initially when you second the motion um vice mayor you said that you would want wanted to give him the autonomy to decide whether or not the investigation needed to be done. So, I just want you to think about the
timeline, Commissioner Sue, that you're saying literally two weeks after he arrives, he needs to provide what the report. That's what you're saying, right? >> That's what That's what the date voted on. >> That's what you just voted on. >> That's just what we just voted on. I I
asked for February 13th. And if the investigator needs more time, then we can extend that time. >> So, let me just also put this on the record. >> February 13th. I don't I'm not sure when we did the police department when the new manager came in and wanted to do an
assessment, but if we're truly in the best interest of the city, giving an investigator two weeks to investigate 200 plus people, whatever the amount, if it's going to be a sample size or whatever, I want this commission to really think through because are we
doing something that just like when we said the head hunter, we said, "Oh, no, we don't need that." And even when the HR department came back and said um the time frame would be too tight for them to actually do a full investigation,
we decided to go another route. So what I'm asking is for this to be reconsidered. Um, if the feasibility is just for us to do a manh hunt, by all means, but is this what this legislation is really implying that in
two weeks when the new manager needs to come in to do his own assessment that we're saying no, you this this and this is our prerogative, but is that the purview that we really want to have? >> No. >> You give a date certain of February 13th.
>> So, I would amend the >> under the current. So it's under Andy, not under the new manager. Andy and us. >> Yeah. But it has to go it has to go through procurement. >> Not not if it's less than 50. >> You have no idea how much it's going to cost.
>> The whole thing was whether we're violating the manager. >> You have no idea how much it's going to cost for a firm to come in in four weeks to do a thorough investigation. you have no assumption of what it is. So even if it's within his $50,000 or something
that has so let's because you know why the way we do one thing is the way we do everything. That's what I want to also highlight. So it's it's it's left to look just so we can land it because I know it's a Andy you have your direction to hire and do and handle this process.
I guess I don't know if you're going to be following procurement standards. I don't think that matters because I think we voted >> in a front to those standards. It is what it is. That's what they wanted. There's certain people, Mr. Mayor, if we're going to do it, if we're going to do it, we need to do it right because we
spend we spend time >> we spend spend an enormous amount of time trying to figure out other things, right? So, if we're talking about an assessment, which is what Commissioner Sue asked, okay, which was an assessment, what we need to be looking
at are firms or organizations that can do a review to see what our processes are and how we can improve them, right? And to me, that means that someone needs to come before us and say, "Hey, look, we can offer this, we can offer that, similar to how we were doing with the head hunter, and then we can make a
decision moving forward. We don't even know what these firms are going to offer and we're just going to leave it up to somebody to pick. It doesn't make any sense to me. I would I would ask for us to reconsider that so we can actually see what the scope of services are. We're talking about procurement, but we're not even discussing scope of
services from these firms to determine what they're going to offer. >> Well, I don't think how they're going to help us. >> No, no. To be clear, right, this we've we've had a lot of statements on the record and I appreciate it from what Commissioner Sue said and Commission specifically >> Commissioner Sue. So, she specifically
gave the reasoning behind all this. We voted by the majority. Let the process play out. You have your direction, manager. What's the next item? >> Thank you. >> Oh, no, no, no, no, no. I think it's very clear >> for for the record.
>> I understand we're moving on, but I have to make a statement. >> Well, you know what? I think if we we we we need clarity only because um because then >> people are going to come back and say we did this illegal and improper and immoral.
>> So I my my only thing is I'm willing to I would like to amend it and extend the date from from February 13th to something else. But um and I >> don't like I said >> I understand no we can bring it back and
I'm like I can >> Yes. >> Yes you can. >> Yes you did. >> No you Yes you can. But the way that it was pro profered or whatever and what was stated I'm like okay that's what you want. I get it. >> Okay. So I'd like to bring it back um with extending the date
>> the March. Oh, I'm sorry. M Mr. Mayor, may I um please >> pretty please come back and um >> I got it. >> Um because I would like to extend the date on it.
>> I I I wanted Look, I I think >> look for me like for me the issue is >> because I would like like it to be done properly. It's not being understand what's being asked >> the way this was pro this was profered and I don't and I don't think you guys understand what's going on. I I think
this was the way this is being profered is not is not being done proper at all. However, I want to I I'm seeing it okay you guys want to go down this road understanding that I guess Commissioner Sue feels that this is a proper way of
going about it. I understand it. I don't think Commissioner I don't think Commissioner uh Commissioner Shu is is is trying I don't I don't think she's as informed as it should be, but I know this is her motion and we passed it. >> Um I understand your standpoint.
>> I I I don't actually don't think I have to ask for permission to bring it back. I would like to bring it. No, I I don't think that I actually do. I I'm I'm >> I'm direct I'm asking the clerk to
please bring it back um because I I want to make an agenda uh change extend the date and um and ask Commissioner Sue if she has any more clarification on it. >> Well,
>> no, I I I want to move forward. I want to move on. Thank you. I want to move on. So madam madam clerk please put on the agenda for next month on the top of discussion >> by the time that happens it will be >> the next February 17th at the end of January.
>> It's it's a special meeting specific to that one item. >> No, not after a special meeting. Madam >> we can have two items on a special meeting. >> Two items for a special meeting. Mr. Attorney >> No, it's not January something. It's February 3rd. Second. Second.
>> Okay. >> Special meeting February 2nd. >> If if we're making if we're making the motions, right? So, my question is, Mr. Attorney, because that's what you're here for. Um, as it relates to to this
process, am I able to make a motion um that we at least see what the firms are offering or not? Um, you've adopted something.
If you have a motion that's not in direct conflict with what was adopted, then to further explicate, I guess you
can make a motion to further explicate something. thing that's not in direct conflict with what was just adopted. >> Yeah. I just want to see a scope of services because from my understanding this is supposed to
help with process and procedure, but from what I'm hearing it's it's something that seems to be that can happen in a some sort of a vacuum and you know I'm not clear on that. So that's what I'm I'm asking. Can we >> I was trying to make a statement for the record that
a motion to investigate proper processes cannot disregard the provisions of your charter regarding procurement. You have a charter. I think we went we
voted against and you cannot say we're not going to >> abide by our charter >> in terms of procurement. >> Correct. That's just a comment for >> No, but you the way >> No, I I >> you voted you your your your vote was >> the time certain
>> with the time certain and the aspect of us going through not even going through the procurement process wasn't >> with all due respect I actually read this. >> It wasn't percharter. So I was like >> no I said no I said it right here. It says that um >> is we have a procurement. >> I'm looking at Robert rules. >> No, it's procurement. We're talking
about the >> I know, but I'm looking at Robert rules and it says a mayor or presiding officer generally does not have unilateral authority to block an item from the agenda. >> I didn't prevent a member from bringing a motion back. >> Your ability to bring an item back depends on when the original decision
was made and what the outcome was. >> That is technically that is called a motion for reconsideration. Okay. So, I'm making a motion to reconsider. >> Second. >> Okay. I would like the motion to say I
would like to change in that item the date to extend the date and um to see if Commissioner Sue wants to clarify a little bit more. >> Not Not to muddy the waters. I'm sorry. But do we need a vote for the reconsideration that was just second?
>> That is entirely correct. You cannot change it unless and until there's a vote to reconsider that puts it back on the table. >> There there was a motion by by the vice mayor and seconded by uh commissioner floor.
>> Okay. >> You have to vote on whether you are going to reconsider before you can discuss what you're going to do to reconsider. >> All right. I have a motion and a second. So call the vote. Right.
Okay. >> Yes, madam clerk. >> Mr. Mayor, is that you're going to do a roll call or voice vote? >> Oh, uh, roll call so we can be on the same page. >> Commissioner Jean, >> no. >> Commissioner Smith, >> yes.
>> Commissioner Sue, >> yes. >> Commissioner Shernoff, >> yes. >> Commissioner Flory, >> yes. >> Vice Mayor Smuckler, >> yes. >> Mayor Michael Joseph, >> no. Now we are back on the
>> So I would like to what she said, what Commissioner Sue said, but change the date, extend the date to give more time >> for whatever the process is for procurement and to have a little bit
better clarification on what procurement would need. >> You're directing to have clarification. >> You have to do that through the manager. You cannot direct procurement to do a process. That's not what >> I need to know what she wants so that the manager can tell the procurement
what they want. But if we don't know what she wants, then the manager >> he's not going to be the new manager of her say if you're extending. >> He'll be the manager tomorrow. So he will direct procurement tomorrow. If I may through the mayor, if I'm for interrupting, but you have not stated
who is going to select who is doing the quote independent investigation close quote. You have to Well, I mean, it's not for me to tell you, Commissioner. I'm simply saying that if
that's what you're intending, you need to state that. Okay. And that too in the motion. >> So the so the the more time that you're asking uh that you're talking about, Commissioner Smuckler, >> is to I'm sorry, Vice Mayor, my
apologies. Is to be able to provide more information on what the assessment is going to be. Is that what you're saying? >> No. more time because we need time to >> to allow the back there to do it >> to to find a the company and for the
company to do the report the the interviews and the report >> because originally it was by February >> 13th but we know now that >> it won't it would not be able to be by February 13th so now we need to extend >> so then maybe so if that's going through
a procurement process in the city manager's office they need to come back to us and let us know what that timeline can be. >> Well, so we can also say that they because if they find a company that says, "Well, yeah, we'll do it in 9 months, we're going to say no." But if
they can find a company that can do it in two months, whatever time everybody is three months, whateverbody agrees on, then we would say yes to that company. >> So So do we set the do we set 60 or 90 days now and then they they look for that or is that what you're saying?
doesn't make any sense. >> I'm trying I'm >> You got to give procurement the opportunity to go out for bid. >> But that's not what we're do. That's not That's not what the commission >> Yes, I am. I am saying that I'm not directing them. I'm making like we
always make motions that then the manager directs them. I am not directing procurement. I'm not even looking at her. I'm looking at all of you and talking to all of you. Okay? And um we just like just like we did with the
manager's position that we said we wanted it by certain date. I'm doing the same thing. We want it by a certain date and um more clarification. That's it. >> But just that's true. But to to your point that's different because the head
hunter we're choosing it for a position technically that we have the governance to choose. All right. So, so um >> No, >> Mr. uh attorney, the motion that's being reconsidered, does the motion does the initial um
motion maker still um carry that motion or how does that work? Well, >> if it's being reconsidered, is someone else able to make a motion consistent with what was made earlier, or does it have to be uh a motion accepted by the original uh motion maker?
>> May May I >> am I making sense of the question I'm asking? I understand the question, but I'm not being allowed to answer it. So, >> Mr. Mayor, may I speak? >> Mr. City attorney, you're recognized. >> There was a motion.
The motion was seconded. The motion was passed as presented. There has now been a motion to reconsider. The motion to reconsider was seconded by you. The motion to reconsider has
passed. >> Right. >> That puts the item back on the table. Once it is back on the table, the f the prior motion that was passed.
>> No. Thank you. No, excuse me. Please. I Commissioner, I understand you have feelings about this, but I have to be able to answer questions that I'm asked. You're correct, Commissioner Smith. The prior motion, having been reconsidered,
is null and void. It is back on the table. Anyone? Now, that doesn't mean there's not a motion. The motion is still the motion that was brought by Commissioner Sue,
but it is back for consideration, which means any member of the Deis may look to amend what was previously passed. The vice mayor indicated that the reason for her
motion to reconsider was that she wished to make some amendments. Anyone can agree with her amendment or make their own amendment, but at least
whether you look to amend her amendment or vote on her amendment and then see before you vote on it, if anyone else has another or different amendment, it's on the table. So, as was the case in the
first motion, any one can move to amend it, and it's up to the body if it gets four votes to pass it. And there are some specifics that the vice mayor has indicated she wants to bring. You can
vote her amendment up, you can vote her amendment down, or you can amend her amendment and say, "I'm okay with that, but I also want this other thing in the nature of clarification. It's back in
front of you. There is an original motion. The original motion is on the table, but there's at least one proposed amendment to it. any amendment, whether it's to the amendment or of the original
motion after you dispose of this amendment, it's all up to you. >> So, so far the amendment is to change the date to um April 1st. I don't know.
I don't know. Oh, that's at the end of March. Okay. So, that's almost April 1st. So, okay. Uh by uh to have by Okay. Okay. March
23rd. still need to clarify. >> You still need to clarify >> something about who is selecting a so-called independent investigator and you have to have some
>> statement about it because otherwise it's not a self-executing motion without them. >> Okay. So >> obviously through Yeah. So obviously through the manager he would reach out to procurement and um she's going to say whatever it is.
>> Okay. So um we engage an independent third-party reviewer selected directly by the new city manager with respect to procure no hold on >> no that's what you want
she stop >> she is >> that's what she wants she said she's reading it >> okay um >> do you want it to be by the new madam vice mayor it was initial initially by us the commission >> and then We were talking about is the is
the new manager starting tomorrow to do be in transition. We also haven't agreed on that. And we can also ask Andy because that's what Jay said in his last comment. What Jay said in his last comment was the city manager. And of course there's a new city manager sitting over there which we haven't
decided if you're going to put him in transition. So that >> no we don't we need a >> All right. So selected directly by the city manager with respect to procurement guidelines and operating entirely outside the city attorney's office. I'm
trying to make this as clear as possible because this is the third time I'm reading it. To conduct limited factf focus review of the governance it's not funny. And charter related concerns raised regarding staff interactions. The scope of this engagement shall
include confidential staff interviews, document review, any other factf finding necessary to clearly understand current practices and expectations. The firm retain must possess specific expertise in municipal governance and charter
compliance. The review shall be conducted and on an expedited basis with a written report submitted to the city commission prior to March 20th. I think that's what 23rd,
right? 23rd. Okay. March 23rd. This motion is made to protect the city staff, preserve the city integrity of the city, governance structure, ensure that issues affecting the operation of the city are addressed promptly, objectively, and transparently. >> Okay. So, I'm okay with allowing the new
manager to pick it um instead of doing it through procurement as and he can pick one as long as it's under 50,000. >> She she asked for procurement guidelines. She said following procurement. You're just going to have him hire someone that will that'll be have
>> No, no, no, no. Now that's being No, I'm going to put >> No, no, no. What you're No. What you're h No. This is similar to what the Pizzy report was. >> This is This is >> Okay. So, you know what? I'll I'll go with the I'll I'll accept it through procurement then. >> That's what the P No, no, no, no, no.
You're going through outside of procurement to hire someone that gonna be doing >> I just said I'll do procurement. >> We'll go through procurement. >> We'll go through procurement. >> Do I have a second? >> Okay. So, you So, to be clear, you're going through procurement to have an independent review of these processes.
>> I'm going through the city manager. >> Correct. Correct. >> And then we're going to follow to have a limited review of these processes. the city like I can I can give this I can mail it that way >> until the 3rd of February. >> Right. Correct. >> Until so
>> second night time. >> Oh, do I have a I'm sorry, Mr. Manager. It's >> I don't say I want this one this person or I whoever holds that office. >> Oh, I'm pressing it backwards. Okay.
Thank you, Madam Clerk. The hour is late. >> Mr. I'll just say for the record quickly since it didn't seem to be picked up. The city manager is the city manager. Whoever holds the office when procurement presents it for a decision to the city manager, that person is the
city manager. >> Mr. City attorney is not the city. >> Mr. Mr. Mr. Commissioner, can I interrupt you? I think this goes back to what Commissioner Shernov mentioned earlier and that's really putting the
new city manager in a very precarious situation. >> Yes. >> Which maybe that's what we want to do. >> No, >> but kicking the kicking the can down the road. >> Excuse me. >> Kicking the kicking the can down the
road is basically what we're doing. >> You see what I'm saying? It's not only about doing things right. It's >> if we wanted a witch hunt, we would be doing it with effort, but we're going to do it the proper way. And we're going to >> You're going to do a witch hunt the
proper way the proper way. >> It's not a witch hunt. If there's It's not a witch hunt. If there's enough if there's enough rubble going around in our city from our residents that feels there's been something misguided,
>> there's a lot going on that people feel something was done wrong. >> And rather than hear the rumors, we want to find out was there something done wrong. And in order to do that, we have to get somebody independent.
It can't be somebody from within that might hold a grudge or might owe a favor. One of those two things. I'm so tired of hearing that's politics. We're trying not we're trying to find out what happened when something was egregious
against employees. And if that was the case, we'll find out and then we'll ask the attorney what's the next step. Let's find out very independently. That's it. I mean, it's not >> I don't understand. If you don't want to
find that out because you don't want to investigate, that's I understand. You get to vote no. >> I am >> I think it's beyond that, Commissioner Smith. But I do like what you're saying in the fact, but I I think I've I've echoed that earlier earlier in the evening. let this be a task or an
exercise that the the new city manager takes on because he has to understand what's going on with the city. That's that's his that's his uh duty. Now, do we want to interject ourselves in that
because there's perceptions or hearsay about impropriy towards the mayor as Commissioner Sue is is is is highlighting. And I think that's what we have to kind of put on the record. >> Each of us each of us has to take this very objectively.
>> That's what I'm saying because it's fair that it's fair to say that there is an accusation against the mayor. Is that that's what you're uh stating >> alleged? Voted no. No, that's what No, no, that's what you made very clear. >> I'm sorry. I said that just because you
voted against supporting him just now when we had him come to the podium. I did not want >> I did not want to prop you up against each other. The amendment is >> to change it to March 23rd that we have
to have something in by March 23rd and that we're going to through the >> current manager will direct procurement >> to find someone to do what independent what to do with investigation. First, you have to vote on whether or not the
amendment itself is accepted. And then you would vote on whether or not the motion either as originally stated or as amended. If the amendment passes, >> I make a motion accept the amendment. >> Second. >> Madam Cler, can you do a roll call?
>> Commissioner Smith, >> yes. >> Commissioner Sue, >> yes. >> Commissioner Shernov, >> yes. >> Commissioner Flory, >> no. Commissioner Jean, >> no. >> Vice Mayor Smuckler, >> yes. >> Mayor Joseph,
>> no. All right. Next, we vote on as amended. >> Motion amended. >> The amendment is accepted. You now get to a vote on the original. >> I make a motion as amended. >> I make a motion. Accept as amended. >> Second.
>> Madam Cler. >> Yes. >> Commissioner S said yes. Commissioner Shernoff. Yes. >> Commissioner Fmon. >> No. >> Commissioner Jean. >> No. >> Commissioner Smith.
>> Yes. >> Vice Mayor Smuckler. >> Yes. >> Mayor Joseph. >> No. >> It passes. >> Okay. Now we can move on. What's the next item on the agenda? >> Item 15.4. Protocol. Commissioner Jean. Added item.
I'm hoping that this is a conversation that we can have with the new city manager, but the ball can start rolling with um the current just SOPs um especially the events and the different especially dealing with the commission as it relates to to protocols
that we need to follow and that can help staff, you know, better serve the commission so we can better serve the public. So that's the discussion that I would want to have. I guess give direction. >> Well, I'm trying to see if there's
appetite. If there's a motion, I want to make a motion for the city manager to actually look into developing protocols to help better move us forward. >> I second that. >> Well, she's members >> what she's >> with difference commissioner.
>> Yes. >> U not that the commission seems to really care about the advice, but I'll offer it again. It's a discussion item, at least in my opinion. You should not be voting on items that are placed on the agenda simply for discussion
consistent with what I said about the previous item. I have the same opinion. That may not be what the commission chooses to do. I just offer a >> Well, in in light of that, what I wanted to say is that's the the the incoming is
here, the current is here. That's something that from your purview I want you all to kind of take a look at. This is a discussion obviously but we do need protocols, better protocols, better SOPs on like I said event protocol, different
things that um that help govern this body to work well with all the other things that that we bring forth in this city. >> Give me like an example of what you're looking for. >> Absolutely. Like for instance, we have a
commission supervisor, right? Who handles our travels, who handles events, calendars, all those things. Those things need to be mainstreamed, especially through the manager's office. Why? Because sometimes things are not on our calendars. I mean,
that there has been a heavy improvement in that. But those are the type of things that I'm looking for there to be more of a marrynt between the commission itself and the city manager's office. Um, another key example is we went to
the breakfast um this past what was it yesterday? So, you know, there was an email sent out if people needed a ride or there's certain things that we need to have more of of a mainstream protocol for. Um those are some of the categories that I
that I'm that I'm suggesting but I do have other areas that you know I'll share through the clerk and um that can be sent. So if anyone wants to add to that discussion of how then that's something that we can um talk through so that eventually if it needs to be an
item then it can be. >> So I think those are great ideas but I'm just wondering sorry. So, I think they're all great ideas, but I'm just wondering if it's something that the manager the the new the incoming manager should be doing
like with his staff like direct. >> No, absolutely. And that's why just like the previous item, you can say the same thing for that, right? >> Um we just voted on a whole procurement process and etc. So, in the same vein, >> um that is something that the team
>> problem with your idea. I'm just wondering. >> So, in essence, that's what it would be, >> right? I'm just wondering if if Oh, okay. Whatever you want. I'm okay with it. >> I think it's a great idea. I think we voted on it once or twice before and
>> Commissioner, as a discussion item, Commissioner Sean. >> Yeah. since it's a discussion item and I appreciate your respecting that fact. Um, you you're discussing it, you're getting input, the next step when there's a discussion
item that you bring up to your colleagues is to ask that it be placed on the next agenda for consideration as a legislative item or something like that. >> Yes. >> Just just to point that out. That's the
regular order. Absolutely. Yeah, that's the one I want to follow. >> So, may I order? Um, so that's gonna be on discussion. Can we go to >> Oh, >> I'm not No, >> I just wanted to talk about her item a little bit. >> No, she doesn't want >> She doesn't want to. Okay.
>> No, thank you. Now, we're moving on to city manager report. >> Yes. Uh, just I'd like to call the just the chief up for a couple of minutes. Um, part of my report. Other than that, you all can um Well, I'll let the chief go. Thank you, Chief.
>> Thank you, man. Good evening, everyone. Uh, mayor, vice mayor, commissioner, city manager's office. I I appreciate the opportunity to come up for just be two minutes. Uh, speaking to the managers, when I give myself, uh, an opportunity to, uh, share with you our accomplishments for the police department for 2025. Uh, I want to
preface it by thanking each and every one of you for the support throughout 2025, for our police department, for the men and women, the city manager officers, for your leadership and your guidance. >> No, no, no. Sorry getting a staff member to do something. No problem. Go ahead. >> And uh congratulations to Mr. Don
Williams on his appointment to city manager. Looking forward to working for you and with you as we move this city forward. Uh so just from an administrative standpoint uh and staffing perspective, last year we hired uh 10 officers. We're able to hire seven civilian personnel as well. Uh along
with the eight promotions that we just did uh last a couple weeks ago, we're obviously moving the department forward and are carrying out our vision and mission. Uh we're looking to hire two more officers uh in the middle of next next month. Uh we have seven officers that are in the uh police academy that
we're looking to hire uh probably in March and then we're looking to send 10 to 12 officers to the academy in May. So we're looking to be fully staffed by the end of the year and that's a big thanks to all of you for making that happen. uh will be up to 115 officers.
>> Uh additionally, uh we were able to uh upgrade our department radios to Motorola. Uh we received our Glocks and our firearms. Uh we're moving forward with that. The purchase of the new boat. Thank you very much. Again, it's here in Miami, so it's getting outfitted as we speak. Our invest our investigations
division. >> Uh not to cut you off cheap, but there there will be a ceremony. Well, I can't speak. There there should be a ceremony uh when we finally have the boat already outfitted uh looking very nice and sharp in NMBB uh >> with with a bottle of champagne >> cider.
>> Yeah. >> From an investigations division standpoint, uh our investigations division's had a highly productive year. They made alone just our investigations division over 200 arrests, uh closed four homicide cases, conducted 57 search
warrants, and were able to seize over $500,000 in US currency along with narcotics, uh firearms, and vehicles. As you know, our cold case unit also closed two notable cold cases from 1986 and 2015. So, did an incredible job with that. Our patrol division, they handled
over 92,000 calls for service alone last year. Uh they conducted our SWAT team 38 um operational deployments. Our K9 unit had 32 deployments as well with several seizures uh of guns and narcotics and apprehensions.
Uh moving along to our crime stats, uh we were able to reduce homicides by 75% in 2025. Uh reduce robberies by 15%, residential burglaries by 6%, non-residential burglaries by 29%, and uh vehicle
burglaries by 13%. outstanding job by the men and women reducing all these crimes in our city. And then our arrest, we were up uh 22% in our arrests last year uh totaling, 1259 arrests. And our cit our citations went up by 33% to
8,339 citations. So I just wanted to brief you all on that real really quick. >> Can you address the reertification? Are we working on that? >> Yes. So yes, thank you for bringing that up. So, we have hired a accreditation
manager and accreditation team. Uh, as a matter of fact, uh we're looking uh towards the end of the year. We have some things that we're working on that we have to we want to make sure that we address every issue correctly so that we're not putting this position um again like we were before, but I will assure
you that we are moving in the right direction and I we aim to be credited again by the end of the year. >> Thank you. >> Welcome. U quickly Commissioner Smith, >> congratulations to your all of your wonderful achievements with giving people an upgrade. I I'm sorry I wasn't
able to be there, but uh Chief, today on 163rd and Northeast 35th Avenue, there was a blockage to get out of Eastern Shores and to get into Eastern Shores, you had to go over to Sunny Isles. But there was nothing on social media. There
was no notification. I got about 10 neighbors calling me to say, "Why isn't there more police presence? Why isn't there notification?" H how does that work? Could you explain it to the public? >> Yeah. So, what happened was uh over the night uh there was a DUI that was coming
over the Sunny House Bridge, subsequently crashed, taking out the transformer, um causing the power outage to go out at that particular intersection. Uh we had officers there from 2:00 a.m. all the way up till, I don't know, almost noon, uh manning that intersection. So yes, normally uh we do
have something that's put out on social media. I'll make sure that that doesn't happen again. >> Yeah, it was very discerning because people that had appointments and didn't know they were sitting in traffic for 40 minutes. Things happen. But I just want the public to know that whatever it was
you were working on it and you're what if you needed to correct it, you would. >> We will. >> Okay. city attorney. >> Yeah. Uh the rest you can read. We're happy to have posted our first quarterly. Um you guys approved the uh
budget transparency. So uh that's uh up there uh online for you to see, but uh everything else is uh good and available um online. >> Thank you so very much. >> Um city attorney, two matters. Uh number one, we previously held an executive
session on the uh matter regarding the uh Raymond Gaylord Williams Trust versus the city of North Miami Beach. We returned to mediation on that matter. We um had a discussion. We recessed that. We are going to be scheduling a followup
on that mediation. For that reason, even though I think it's already on the record, I'll just reiterate that we're likely to call for another executive session to discuss what happened in the mediation uh that we had yesterday and
um we're expecting a letter from the plaintiffs in the matter and I'm going to want to explore that with you as well. Our outside counsel Joe Cerotto is going to want to be part of that. So just for the record, we are going to be in all likely calling for another
executive session sometime in the month of February. Secondly, as uh I think you're all aware, we u did file suit uh late last year in the matter of the city of North Miami Beach versus Miami Dade County. Um I've had at least one or two
inquiries from members of the commission as to where that matter is at and what's going on with it at this time. Uh we meaning our outside council as well as as our firm uh also need some guidance from you and want to brief you about
where we're at and discuss next steps. So I'll place on the record that we're going to be wanting to have a an executive session on that matter. I don't know that it makes sense necessarily to hold them both in the same day because one might run long and
the other might not. So we'll talk about that. We'll work with the clerk's office and the manager's office to get that scheduled to your convenience. We want as many people as possible for each, but we definitely need to be discussing the
uh especially since there have been inquiries where we're at with Miami date with North Miami Beach versus Miami date county. Thank you. >> All right. Next commission meeting is February 17, 2027. Do I motion to adjurnn? >> So move.
>> Motion second. All in favor say I. I.