Homestead Revamps Electricity Ordinance, Approves Key Settlements
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Meeting Type:
City Council
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Meeting Date:
06/26/2024
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Recording Published:
06/26/2024
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Duration:
222 Minutes
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State:
Florida
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County:
Miami-Dade County
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Towns:
Homestead
- Meeting Overview:
In a recent assembly, the Homestead City Council focused on amending the city’s electricity distribution ordinances and approving several claim settlements. The council also tackled zoning ordinances, the development of affordable housing projects, and the support for local businesses and community programs.
The council voted to amend the city code of ordinances related to electricity distribution. The amendments pertain to multiple aspects such as application fees, construction regulations, cost responsibilities for distribution system components, and policies and procedures for electric line extensions.
Among the settlements approved during the meeting, the claims by Allan Mgus and Nancy Arelli Perez Coronado were resolved, as well as those by L Travon Bens.
Another substantial discussion centered on the establishment of the Rapid Transit Development Overlay (RTD) district. The council debated over the appropriate maximum density levels for different subzones within the district. After deliberation, a consensus was reached to set a uniform density limit of 31 for all subzones.
The council addressed the issue of affordable housing by approving a project proposal from “Touching Miami with Love.” This initiative seeks to construct 100 units of affordable housing, which would be integrated with the existing nonprofit campus. The addition aims to provide sustainable living options for essential community members, potentially preventing them from relocating out of the state due to housing costs.
In support of local businesses, a presentation by Cardel Hayes of South Dade Connections proposed the establishment of Black Business Month in Homestead. Highlighting the significance of small and particularly black-owned businesses, Hayes detailed a small business cohort program and discussed the upcoming celebration event on August 9th, which is designed to empower the black business community.
The council also acknowledged the importance of education in community engagement. Representatives from Miami-Dade County Public Schools’ Office of Intergovernmental Affairs and Family and Community Engagement expressed their gratitude for the city’s partnership. They provided information about local schools and sought collaboration with the city to offer internship opportunities for students.
Furthermore, the council discussed a variance request from Leon Medical Center for additional signage. While the city staff recommended denial based on the applicant’s inability to demonstrate hardship per the city’s strict sign code, some council members voiced frustration with the code’s rigidity. The variance for the medical center’s signage, which aimed to ensure clear visibility for patients, was granted after council members expressed support for the request.
A development known as Homestead Commons also garnered the council’s attention. The project involves rezoning land to accommodate an 82,266-square foot retail shopping center. The council deferred one item to allow the developer’s representation at the public hearing, emphasizing the need for proper engagement in the process.
Steven D. Losner
City Council Officials:
Sean L. Fletcher, Erica G. Ávila, Jenifer N. Bailey, Clemente Canabal, Tom Davis, Larry Roth
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Meeting Type:
City Council
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Meeting Date:
06/26/2024
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Recording Published:
06/26/2024
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Duration:
222 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
Florida
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County:
Miami-Dade County
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Towns:
Homestead
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