Miami Lakes Town Council Discusses Traffic, Environmental Initiatives, and Community Safety
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Meeting Type:
City Council
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Meeting Date:
08/21/2024
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Recording Published:
08/21/2024
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Duration:
76 Minutes
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Towns:
Miami Lakes
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County:
Miami-Dade County
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State:
Florida
- Meeting Overview:
The Miami Lakes Town Council meeting focused on addressing community concerns about increased traffic due to the start of the school year, advancing environmental projects, and enhancing community safety through various initiatives.
A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to discussing the impact of increased traffic with the start of the school year. A community member raised concerns about traffic congestion, noting that while two additional officers had been deployed to assist at a key intersection, the general public often forgets about the seasonal increase in traffic. The resident emphasized the need for the community to adjust their schedules to accommodate the changes, stating, “A lot of people are complaining about the traffic but… in the summer they kind of forget that it’s gonna come.” This sentiment highlighted the ongoing challenge of managing traffic flow during peak times, especially with the influx of residents and school-related traffic.
The council also moved forward with discussions on the “Aen Perry Life Ring Initiative.” The parks department is currently reviewing potential locations for the life rings, with the council directing staff to explore sponsorship opportunities for their installation. The importance of securing funding was underscored, with concerns raised about delays and the perception that neighboring municipalities can expedite similar projects more efficiently. The council considered drafting a letter to advocate for funding, involving the town attorney to ensure proper language and emphasizing the community impact of the life rings.
Environmental initiatives were another key focus. The council discussed a proposal regarding a fertilizer ordinance aimed at protecting local waterways. Clarification was needed on acceptable fertilizer types and inspection processes. There was a suggestion to present the initiative to the new council after the upcoming elections to avoid potential changes from the transition. However, one member expressed a willingness to move forward promptly, stating, “I say we don’t waste any more time and get that going.”
In addition to the fertilizer ordinance, the council discussed beautification efforts under the Pommetto Expressway and the beautification of electrical boxes in the town. Funding for the electrical box initiative had been approved, and a contract with the artist was signed. The council awaited dimensions from the county to enable the artist to proceed with designs. The selected artist would ensure the artwork blended appropriately with the environment.
Community engagement efforts were also a significant topic of discussion. The council considered conducting a survey to gather community input on local issues, acknowledging concerns about cost and data accuracy. The possibility of utilizing the local newspaper for outreach was proposed. This approach aimed to provide information and engage residents interactively.
The council also discussed the potential for an annual HOA meeting, emphasizing the importance of consolidating discussions into a single event rather than multiple smaller meetings. A previous speaker, Ron Miguel, was mentioned as a potential guest for the upcoming event. The aim was to include multiple relevant topics, such as legal updates on HOA statutes, to ensure comprehensive engagement with HOA members.
Another item was the proposal for a legislative update panel focusing on issues like property insurance and legal matters. The idea of incorporating a panel format to cover topics of community interest was put forth, with suggestions to invite representatives from major insurance companies and legal firms. The council discussed potential speakers and emphasized the importance of securing a date for the event, tentatively planned for mid-January to maximize attendance from legislators.
The council also addressed safety concerns, including the installation of bollards at a previously problematic intersection. The installation of eighteen bollards aimed to prevent vehicles from crashing into a wall at the corner. Discussions included the effectiveness of the bollards and whether reflective paint had been used to enhance safety. Members shared observations on the positive impact of the bollards in preventing accidents.
Additionally, a new item concerning legal dumping along Northwest 92nd Avenue was tabled due to a lack of available information. Another item regarding green space near Northwest 87th Avenue was discussed, highlighting the town’s maintenance responsibilities and the potential for developing a pocket park if ownership of the land could be requested.
The council also voted to fill a secretary position, which was unanimously supported. Upcoming events, such as planning bike rides for December, February, and April, were also noted, with a focus on reviewing costs to ensure proper budgeting.
In closing comments, a council member expressed appreciation for the increased visibility of law enforcement in the area, noting enhanced speed enforcement measures. The meeting concluded with a motion to adjourn at 9:46 PM.
Manny Cid
City Council Officials:
Tony Fernandez, Luis E. Collazo, Josh Dieguez, Ray Garcia, Marilyn Ruano, Victoria Martinez (Assistant to the Town Council)
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Meeting Type:
City Council
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Committee:
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Meeting Date:
08/21/2024
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Recording Published:
08/21/2024
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Duration:
76 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:
Miami Lakes
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