The council meeting began with a discussion about the millage rate for the upcoming budget. A member noted a conversation with the property appraiser, who suggested that a 3% cut in millage would help protect homestead properties from impending tax increases. This measure was deemed critical for maintaining financial stability within the community amid rising costs due to inflation. The council unanimously passed the motion to include the proposed budget cuts in the upcoming workshop.

Following the budget discussion, the council celebrated the success of the Police Explorer Academy, a program aimed at providing young adults with insights into law enforcement careers, discipline, and teamwork. Officers Carlos and Kenny led the program, which culminated in a rigorous three-week academy simulating actual police training. Two graduates, Ryan Perez and Morgan McShan, were introduced to the council. McShan shared his educational aspirations, expressing plans to pursue a degree in business and a master’s in law enforcement, while Perez described the challenges of the academy and the discipline it instilled in him. The officers and graduates received applause from the council and attendees, highlighting the program’s positive impact on youth and the community.

In another significant agenda item, the council addressed the ongoing debate surrounding the town’s noise ordinance, particularly the regulations affecting local businesses on Main Street. The current ordinance mandates that music cease by 11:00 PM, but some council members proposed extending this to 2:00 AM to support the thriving business environment. The police major noted that most noise complaints arise after 11:00 PM, aligning with existing restrictions. Residents expressed mixed feelings, with some concerned about disturbances from loud music late at night, especially for families with children. The council debated various approaches, including different regulations for live music versus music played through speakers and extending hours on weekends while maintaining stricter limits during the week. Ultimately, the council decided to gather more data on noise complaints and community opinions before making a final decision.

The meeting also included a presentation from Miami-Dade County Public Schools, represented by Elette Rodriguez Diaz, who thanked the town for its continuous support of local schools. She highlighted that all Miami Lakes schools had received an “A” rating from the state and discussed internship opportunities for students and the Parent Academy, which provides webinars to help parents navigate the education system.

Public comments during the meeting covered various topics, including a resident’s resignation from the Veterans Committee and subsequent nomination for the Planning and Zoning Board. The resident, Alejandro Sanchez, discussed his qualifications and urged the council to endorse his nomination, stating his pursuit of an MBA in commercial real estate. Another resident, Claudia Lues, emphasized the importance of responsible budgeting and resource allocation, particularly for park maintenance, cautioning the council about inflation’s impact on budgeting.

The council also moved forward with a study to inspect potential deficiencies in canal bank installations. Public Works Director Omar Santos explained that the $31,000 expenditure would cover an inspection of phase one of the project. The inspection aims to identify deficiencies and develop a corrective plan to prevent further deterioration. The council debated the value of the study, weighing the potential benefits of identifying issues early against the costs and feasibility of holding contractors accountable. Ultimately, the motion to proceed with the study passed despite some dissent.

Other notable discussions included the adoption of a resolution to support the people of Venezuela amid electoral controversies, a proposal for a new time capsule to engage the community, and enhancements to the town’s noise ordinance to better balance business interests and residential concerns. The council also discussed the importance of improving the tree trimming service process and the necessity of conducting inspections for infrastructure projects to avoid repeating past mistakes.