During the public comments section, Richard Glat, a local resident, articulated his discontent regarding the Trump Endeavor and Midtown project ordinances. He criticized the approval process, suggesting that the initial proposals for 3,000 units were unrealistic and that developers would ultimately settle for lower numbers while still profiting significantly. Glat expressed his belief that these developments catered primarily to wealthy investors, thereby fostering a transient community rather than one of permanent residents. He stated, “I became very dejected because it looks like there’s really no point to even discuss this,” indicating his view that the council’s decisions were heavily influenced by powerful developers.

Echoing Glat’s concerns, another resident, Francisco Basana, highlighted the potential traffic congestion resulting from the doubling of residential units in the Midtown project. He pointed out existing traffic issues on Avenue and questioned the city’s ability to manage the anticipated influx of vehicles. Basana also mentioned delays in addressing community needs, such as the prolonged wait for his neighborhood’s pool to reopen due to permit issues, contrasting this with the swift progress on larger developments.

The council then tackled Item 22E, which involved significant amendments to the Midtown Planned Unit Development (PUD). The proposal aimed to increase the number of approved residential units from 253 to 552 while reducing commercial gross leasable area and removing 75,000 square feet of office space. A key point of contention was the shift towards a predominantly rental community, which some residents feared would lead to higher crime rates and neighborhood disruptions. One resident, Mr. Richard Gles, voiced his opposition, stating, “I think that’s horrible this community is winding up becoming a full 100% Rental Community.”

City staff explained that the amendments were part of a long-standing settlement agreement dating back to 2004. The revisions included a “hero’s housing” program for teachers and first responders, offering 26 affordable units in phase four, 15 in phase five, and 15 in phase six. These units would be controlled to remain affordable for workforce households earning up to 140% of the area median income. This aspect of the proposal aimed to balance the increased residential density with community benefits.

Another focal point of the meeting was the Trump Endeavor development project. The proposal, led by the Chump Organization, aimed to build 1,498 units and retail space on approximately 56 acres, a reduction from the original proposal of over 2,300 units. Despite these assurances, public skepticism remained high. Concerns about financing and potential crime increases were voiced, with one speaker highlighting that “Deutsche Bank from Germany holds the mortgage,” alluding to the bank’s past money laundering scandals.

The discussion on the Trump Endeavor project culminated in a vote, with Vice Mayor Corve making a motion to approve the ordinance, which was seconded by Councilwoman Cal. The motion passed with dissent from Councilman Pino and Mayor Fraga.

In a move to address sustainability, the council also discussed a proposal for a partnership with the University of Florida regarding composting training and education. Councilwoman Portas introduced this item, emphasizing the importance of the composting program in promoting sustainability and waste reduction. The proposal included formalizing the partnership with UF, creating a memorandum of understanding, and naming the initiative the Morgan Levy Composting Training Program in honor of a late environmental advocate. The motion received unanimous support from the council.

Additional discussions included zoning changes and legislative approvals. Item 22B, a rezoning request from industrial to industrial commercial for a property at 10450 Northwest 33rd Street, aimed to allow educational facilities such as after-school programs and arts instruction. The council unanimously approved the first reading of this ordinance, following public support and assurances that the changes would not adversely impact the surrounding area.

The council also addressed ordinance number 2022-25, pertaining to parking on private property, and ordinance number 2024-21, proposing the implementation of speed detection systems in school zones. Both ordinances were approved unanimously.