The most pressing topic of the meeting was the approval of a site plan for a new hotel at 10234 Northwest 19th Street. Michelle Lopez from the planning and zoning department detailed the project as a six-story hotel with 124 rooms. She stated that the property is partially developed and complies with the city’s zoning regulations and land use policies without requesting any variances. Lopez emphasized that the project would enhance property values and promote better site design, with all traffic concerns adequately addressed.

The applicant’s representative, Miguel Diaz, aligned with the staff’s presentation, characterizing the project as a “tremendous amenity for the resident of Doral and visitors as well.” The council moved to approve the site plan unanimously after a motion by the Vice Mayor and a second by another council member.

Another noteworthy item was the presentation by the Parks and Police for Kids Foundation, which sought support for a $35,000 donation. Representatives Josh R. and SE Martinez highlighted their mission to aid children in need through after-school programs, summer camps, and community workshops on cyberbullying and safety. They reported engaging 17 students in their after-school program and successfully conducting summer camps and community education initiatives. They also mentioned securing a $35,000 matching grant from Florida International University (FIU), effectively doubling the impact of the council’s contribution. A council member acknowledged the approval of this funding in the initial budget hearing, and the foundation concluded their presentation with gratitude for the council’s ongoing support.

Public hearings also included a site plan proposal for a bank with drive-through facilities on Northwest 41st Street. The design features a one-story building with an area of 1,956 square feet, including six standard parking spaces and one ADA-compliant space. During the discussion, the applicant’s representative, Stephanie Toothaker, confirmed the project’s compliance with all dimensional requirements and requested the council’s support. The council approved the plan unanimously after clarifications on parking and traffic flow were addressed.

The council also discussed changes to the election ordinance, specifically the documentation required for candidates running for office. The proposed changes required candidates to provide at least three documents, including identification and voter registration cards, to prove residency. Public comments raised concerns about voter qualifications and the potential risk of non-citizens voting. The council moved to amend the ordinance, incorporating suggestions such as including utility bills as proof of residency and defining disqualifications more clearly. The motion to approve the amended ordinance passed with unanimous support.

A significant part of the meeting focused on sustainability efforts, with a comprehensive presentation of the Community Integrated Sustainability Plan (CISP). The plan, presented by Carlos Aroo Poly and Carasa from EXP, highlighted the city’s sustainability initiatives since 2003, including the Green Master Plan, Climate Action Plan, and Greenhouse Gas Emissions report. The plan outlined goals and initiatives across various focus areas, such as transportation, energy, waste management, and community engagement. The council approved the CISP unanimously, integrating recent studies on Transportation Alternatives and green policies.

The council also approved a resolution to extend the service agreement with B Free LLC, which provides the door-to-door on-demand transit service known as Freebie. Public Works provided an overview, noting that the service has expanded since its inception, despite challenges with wait times due to increased coverage areas. The council approved the extension to continue supporting this service for residents, including 272 registered senior citizens.

In addition to these topics, the council addressed various community and cultural initiatives. They approved a special event permit for the “World of Nutcracker” event scheduled from November 30, 2024, through January 3, 2025, which is expected to attract around 15,000 attendees. The council also supported waiving court rental fees for two upcoming pickleball tournaments benefiting the Help for Venezuela Foundation.

The meeting concluded with discussions on public safety and community engagement, including a proposal for a full-time park ranger at Doral Central Park and a report on the successful opening of Doral Central Park. The council expressed ongoing support for the police department’s presence in schools and traffic enforcement.