Opa-Locka Commission Tackles RV Ordinance and Public Safety
-
Meeting Type:
City Council
-
Meeting Date:
03/18/2024
-
Recording Published:
03/18/2024
-
Duration:
153 Minutes
-
State:
Florida
-
County:
Miami-Dade County
-
Towns:
Opa-Locka
- Meeting Overview:
At the recent Opa-Locka City Commission meeting, one notable issue addressed was the proposed ordinance to regulate the storage of recreational vehicles (RVs) on residential properties. The commission’s debate highlighted the need for action to prevent a repeat of scenarios in neighboring cities where RVs have become prevalent. The discussion also covered topics ranging from the implementation of new school zone speed limits to the progress of city projects and the consideration of using drones for code enforcement.
The meeting featured a focus on concerns regarding the increase of RVs in the city. The proposed ordinance would prohibit RV storage on residential properties and establish civil penalties for non-compliance. The discussions aimed to address the potential strain on city resources and the necessity to prevent RVs from being used as living quarters. The city manager outlined a proposed outreach plan that included a 90-day educational period followed by code enforcement actions. Additionally, there were discussions about addressing illegal sewer and electrical connections as part of the ordinance, and the challenges of enforcing these regulations, including the potential use of drones for property inspections.
Another topic was the implementation of new school zone speed limits. There was uncertainty about whether the new ordinance would result in automatic ticketing for drivers exceeding the 15 mph limit. The Chief of Police provided clarification, stating that the ordinance allows for ticketing when drivers exceed the speed limit by 10 mph. The commission debated the placement of speed cameras, the impact on school employees and the community, and whether to hold a workshop before the second reading of the proposal.
The commission also discussed various city projects, including the historic City Hall rehabilitation and the Safe Streets grant for traffic studies. Concerns were raised about the delays in a traffic study on Alibaba and the non-responsiveness of the contractor for the Citywide entryways project, with the commission considering legal action to address the delays.
Updates were provided on the finance department’s efforts to continue with a supplemental organization while hiring accountants, and a debate ensued about the process for hiring a public relations coordinator. The commission also considered the need for effective communication strategies for upcoming city events and initiatives. A discussion on the need for a position within the manager’s office to handle communications and outreach was held, alongside concerns about water bills and the need for clear information to address challenges with utility services.
John H. Taylor, Jr.
City Council Officials:
John H. Taylor, Jr., Natasha L. Ervin, Dr. Sherelean Bass, Joseph L. Kelley, Veronica J. Williams
-
Meeting Type:
City Council
-
Meeting Date:
03/18/2024
-
Recording Published:
03/18/2024
-
Duration:
153 Minutes
-
Notability Score:
Routine
Receive debriefs about local meetings in your inbox weekly:
-
State:
Florida
-
County:
Miami-Dade County
-
Towns:
Opa-Locka
Recent Meetings Nearby:
- 09/05/2024
- 09/05/2024
- 49 Minutes
- 09/05/2024
- 09/05/2024
- 197 Minutes
- 09/05/2024
- 09/05/2024
- 181 Minutes