A significant amount of time was dedicated to discussing the broader expansion of the tree canopy in North Beach. Ideas presented included a North Beach tree planting pilot, the buoyant city concept, and the potential hiring of a multidisciplinary firm to re-envision a specific location. The need to increase tree canopy as a measure against climate change was underscored, with suggestions to sacrifice parking spaces to create more plantable space. The debate extended to finding a balance between the vision for expanding the tree canopy and practical considerations such as parking availability and traffic management.

The committee looked at a tree planting pilot program in North Beach, where six trees are currently being monitored for survivability, and identified 40 additional locations for tree planting. A bid received for 16 trees totaled $179,200. There was also a proposal to enhance private property involvement in tree planting through a giveaway program. Public comments included a request for tree planting south of 71st Street and considerations regarding the feasibility of a warranty for the planted trees.

Another major discussion centered on the potential use of mobile arrest processing centers to decrease the time police officers spend away from their assigned areas. Daniel Morgalo from the police department highlighted that the addition of such centers might not solve the issue and could create unintended consequences. The majority of arrests, as per Morgalo, do not require officers to leave their areas, due to the increased number of departmental detention officers facilitating the infield transfer of custody. The debate touched on the effectiveness of these centers, especially during high-impact weekends, and alternative solutions, such as non-sworn officers assisting with transport, were considered.

The committee also addressed honoring civil rights activist and preservationist Joe Tom Easley with a plaque at Pride Park. Public support for this initiative was voiced by Daniel Ciraldo from the Miami Design Preservation League.

In addition to these topics, the committee tackled the implementation of a mural honoring Marjory Stoneman Douglas at Marjory Stoneman Douglas Park. The initiative, which is to be presented to AIPP and for which funding has yet to be identified, was met with support from the Miami Design Preservation League during public comments.

The continuation of the Florida Fresh Market in Lummus Park was debated, with opposition from the Ocean Drive Association due to concerns about obstructing views and commercializing the park. The vendor, Florida Fresh Markets, showed willingness to comply with city feedback and engage with community stakeholders. The committee recognized the need for further community and stakeholder engagement before making a final decision on the market’s future.

An art installation on the Fritz Hotel on Ocean Drive was proposed, with the committee supporting a pilot installation through February 28th. They emphasized the need for community outreach and transparency in the artwork selection process.

A potential pilot program for a one-way conversion of Sheridan Avenue and Royal Palm Avenue was discussed. The committee considered community feedback on two options and debated the duration of the trial. They expressed a desire to proceed with the pilot, choosing the option with the most community support.

The meeting also included discussions about the Outfront Media Group contract. Concerns were raised about delays in installing new bus shelters and the maintenance of existing ones. The committee called for a staff analysis of the shelters’ conditions and the company’s performance, with a possible legal review, and scheduled a follow-up discussion for a future meeting.