The resolution of the financial dispute was a critical matter, given the significant amount of money involved and the potential implications for the city’s fiscal health. During the meeting, the city manager presented the add-on item, which sparked a debate among the commission members. They scrutinized the language of the amendment. The city attorney provided clarification on the initial agreement’s provisions, including liens, the shut-off process, and legal action rights. After thorough deliberation, the commission voted in favor of the amendment.

Another topic at the meeting was the introduction of various ordinances, including one to amend the annual adopted budgets for the fiscal year, adjusting revenues and expenditures. This ordinance was aimed at authorizing the city manager to take certain actions and provide for the appropriation of funds. The commission discussed the details and voted in favor of its introduction.

The discussion also included the first reading of an ordinance to amend rules of procedure for preparing agendas. Subsequently, an ordinance to enhance enforcement of speed limits in school zones was introduced, garnering support from Miami-Dade County Public Schools representatives and a principal from a local elementary school who emphasized the importance of student safety.

The issue of recreational vehicles (RVs) in the city also took center stage. The storage of RVs sparked a debate, with residents expressing divergent views. Some residents voiced concerns about the lack of notification for a workshop on the ordinance and the proposed civil penalties for non-compliance. Others supported the ordinance, citing the need for regulated approaches to ensure safe buildings and structures, appropriate tax payments, and compliance with city regulations. The code compliance manager highlighted the cons of allowing RVs on residential properties, including potential hazards and unsightliness. A 90-day period for outreach and education before code enforcement would begin issuing citations was mentioned.

Citizens used the forum to raise various other concerns. Issues ranged from treatment of the Hispanic community and lack of communication to dissatisfaction with the delay in the installation of Gateway entry signage and additional consulting fees for a construction project. Concerns about the sale of surplus property and the importance of addressing the easement issue for fair access were also raised, as well as the need for dumpster enclosures and the beautification of Opa-Locka Boulevard.

The meeting touched on several community concerns, including homelessness and city infrastructure conditions. A resident requested information on the red tagging process due to an encroachment on their property and mentioned a threat to their life, to which the city manager assured a private discussion would follow. The commission applauded the Parks and Recreation department for their efforts in organizing community events like “Mena Fest” and a recent pool party and looked forward to a workshop on the historic City Hall renovation.

The city manager provided updates on administrative matters, including the timely submission of the fiscal year 2022 financial reports and ongoing negotiations related to Gloria Gardens. Concerns were voiced over the impact of fines, HUD inspections, and potential penalties on residents, with the suggestion of seeking external consultants for housing-related matters. The commission also discussed the feasibility of implementing one-way streets near public schools and scheduled a closed-door executive session to discuss pending litigation.