Another focal point of the meeting was the development of city parks, with discussions on the redevelopment of Ingram Park and proposals for new residential and commercial projects on city-owned property. Ingram Park, closed since 2017, is slated for a $2.5 million renovation that includes a running track, competitive sports facilities, and a new playground. Funding for the project has been partially secured, yet the city is still in need of an additional half a million dollars.

The commission also debated the potential changes in land use for a 7.58-acre parcel from low-density residential to industrial, with the Planning and Zoning Board recommending denial due to traffic, drainage, and residential impact concerns. Attendees voiced their opinions, with one resident, Audrey Dominguez, opposing the industrial rezoning and Mark Cooper advocating for more residential space. Despite the Planning and Zoning Board’s recommendation, the commission decided to keep the public hearing open for further consideration.

Commission members discussed a resolution to express official support for the allocation of a Florida Museum of Black History in Opa-Locka and the hiring of a consultant with a $50,000 budget. Concerns were raised about the lack of prior commission involvement and the allocation of funds without thorough discussion. Although the resolution was passed, there was an expressed need for more information and clarity on the impact of the project.

The commission also addressed the scope of services for the police department demolition and rebuilding relocation project. After discovering unexpected fuel tanks on the site, the city manager explained that additional work was required to relocate the Command Staff offices. Despite concerns about frequent project ratifications and budget implications, the commission voted unanimously to amend the resolution and move forward with the relocation.

The city’s stance on allowing the serving and sale of alcoholic beverages at late-night events was discussed, with one commission member dissenting due to concerns over crowd control and the event’s duration until 3:00 a.m. Nonetheless, the motion was passed with support from other members.

Financial matters were also on the agenda, with unanimous approval for resolutions to issue a request for proposals for qualified financial institutions and to explore bond financing or refinancing opportunities.

The commission considered an ordinance to amend the city code for outside employment by city employees, sparking a debate over privacy concerns related to reporting expected income. The first reading was approved, with Mayor Taylor clarifying that the policy was adopted from Miami-Dade County’s standards.

A proposed appeal process for decisions made by the city manager was put forward, with the commission agreeing to support the proposal on first reading while recognizing the need for further research.

Additionally, the commission discussed future agenda items, including the installation of covered bus stop benches, the feasibility of a city food pantry, and plans for the Arabian Nights Festival. Individual commission reports highlighted community events and initiatives such as the restart of the Feeding South Florida program and the National Day of Prayer.

Updates on Gloria Gardens Apartments, financial audit reports, and better communication about workshops were also addressed, along with a workshop on park development plans, which included discussions on improvements for Shundi Park and Seagull Park, as well as the development of a senior housing complex.