The meeting also addressed the allocation of garbage fees and its impact across different property values. The imposition of late fees and their potential financial repercussions on the city’s budget were debated, with a call for further discussion and consideration of the administration’s concerns. In addition to the garbage fee issue, the commission reviewed upcoming events and staff acknowledgments, with some members sharing personal achievements and extending invitations to community events.

The meeting progressed with a discussion on the city’s deficit and the need to increase security fees in certain districts to recuperate costs over time. The potential for surpluses in some districts that had been reduced in the previous year was mentioned, leading to a debate about the possibility of raising fees again to fund new guard houses and improve services in certain areas. The commission considered the necessity of security equipment, especially cameras, to maintain public safety, and unanimously passed resolutions relating to Security Services assessments within various special taxing districts.

Another item on the agenda was the city’s efforts to address homelessness. The police department’s representative highlighted the programs and resources available to assist those in need, including partnerships with organizations such as the Miami Recovery Project and Camillus House. Commission members praised the police department’s compassionate approach and offered support for the initiative, while also discussing the legal limitations on the city’s ability to intervene in situations involving homeless individuals and the need for clear communication to residents about the city’s approach.

The meeting also covered the need for repairs at the Coral Gables Museum due to water damage, leaks, and termite infestation. The representatives from the museum outlined the proposed capital improvements and the opportunity to apply for a state grant with a matching fund from the city. The importance of the museum’s historical significance and its role in serving the community was emphasized.

The commission engaged in discussions about a range of projects, from sidewalk construction and roadwork near a hospital to updates on police vacancies and recruitment efforts. The debate on sidewalk placement near a school highlighted the need for resident input and the impact on trees, while the chief of police expressed the challenges of the hiring process and the high standards of the Coral Gables police department.

In terms of city governance, the meeting included a debate about the exit interview process for departing employees, the confidentiality of such interviews, and the handling of public records. The commission considered the need for employee data to improve the system and discussed the use of wellness and mental health programs for employees.

The session also touched upon the proposed ordinance for additional notification requirements for certain development projects, a resolution establishing a historic building maintenance and restoration capital project, and the “Tree of the Year” program. The commission reflected on the city’s love for trees and the upcoming Centennial celebration.