One of the primary topics was the redevelopment of vacant buildings and properties. Aim Alaban, representing Hal of Fashion Properties LC, highlighted his interest in redeveloping two vacant buildings he owned since 2017. He emphasized plans for affordable housing and the necessity of securing proper funding. Alaban was encouraged to continue discussions with the CRA director to facilitate his redevelopment plans.

The conversation about property redevelopment also touched on the Barrett Property, known locally as the Chinese flea market. A community member named Brian raised concerns about the economic alignment of the CRA’s dealings with this property, especially in light of the potential Miami-Dade County rail project. He questioned the rationale behind using taxpayer money to aid businesses that don’t contribute to the local economy. In response, a board member acknowledged the importance of controlling which businesses enter the community, noting that the CRA’s property acquisitions allow for better oversight and the potential to develop spaces reflecting the city’s values. The board had not yet received proposals for these properties but expressed hope for future developments addressing the local housing shortage.

The agency also discussed the importance of a transparent and strategic approach to economic development. Brian pressed the agency for clarity regarding its economic strategies and questioned why assistance was being considered for an outside business while local citizens struggled to access similar support. A board member highlighted the complexities of property ownership and control, emphasizing the need for strategic decisions regarding property acquisitions and the types of businesses allowed in key locations.

The initial approach had proved ineffective, prompting the need to restart the RFP process. Meanwhile, the board discussed informal negotiations with contractors to create a “white box” space, allowing for quicker readiness once the RFP is finalized.

A particularly visible sign of progress was noted by a board member who expressed excitement upon seeing improvements in the community, referencing a business on 27th Avenue as evidence of ongoing development efforts. The CRA director confirmed involvement in 16 projects, although only one had approached the agency for assistance. The agency had reached out to potential candidates for project participation, distributing applications to businesses in strategic locations.

One pressing matter involved negotiations to acquire a property next to a Chinese restaurant. After a lengthy stalemate over price, the seller accepted a counter-offer of $650,000. Environmental concerns were raised due to the site’s proximity to a gas station. The CRA director assured the board that environmental assessments were part of the due diligence process.

The board also discussed the importance of visibility for the CRA’s contributions to redevelopment efforts. A board member, known as the “sign lady,” emphasized the need for signs indicating CRA involvement in completed projects, with recent installations noted at a senior complex on 27th Avenue.

Another topic was assistance for individuals facing homelessness. A young woman facing imminent homelessness had been directed to the city for help but found the existing program unable to assist her due to its focus on rental and mortgage assistance for current residents of Opa-Locka. The program had exhausted its funding, and any potential solutions would require discussion during the budget process. There was a call to develop a new program to support new residents with down payments or first months’ rent. The director confirmed the limitations of the existing program and noted the provision of a 60-page resource document to the young woman.

The idea of brainstorming new legislation to address housing needs, particularly for individuals in dire circumstances, was considered. Suggestions included the CRA exploring the purchase and rehabilitation of properties to provide transitional housing with flexible rental terms. Improved code enforcement efforts were also requested, focusing on litter and trash accumulation in certain neighborhoods. Lastly, there was an appeal for specific budget considerations regarding playground equipment and infrastructure projects, with references made to detailed budget packets distributed for further review.