One of the meeting’s central focuses was the urgent planning of a health and wellness event, scheduled for October 30, aimed at addressing women’s health issues. This event, driven by the urgency of the looming end of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, seeks to provide vital health services to women in the community. Members discussed potential collaborations with organizations such as the Global Innovation Foundation and local educational institutions. The involvement of the Haitian American nurses and Miami Dade College students was suggested to enhance educational outreach through brochures and posters on breast health and domestic violence.

The planning process faced significant time constraints, requiring immediate action to finalize logistics and programming. Ideas for the event included hosting it in the afternoon to maximize attendance, and there was enthusiasm about involving various health organizations like the Women’s Breast Health Initiative, Jackson Memorial Hospital, and the University of Miami. However, the availability of these organizations remained a concern. Consensus emphasized the necessity for wraparound services, and a member stressed the importance of specificity in planning, given the tight timeframe.

Alongside event planning, the commission addressed the broader issue of policy-making for women’s health and well-being. A special presentation by Kya St. Flur, a former councilwoman and governmental affairs specialist, provided insights on crafting effective policies. The presentation underscored the importance of clarity in formulating ideas into actionable recommendations and the need for established policies and procedures to guide the commission’s work. St. Flur emphasized conducting needs assessments to identify impactful recommendations and suggested collaborative brainstorming sessions to address unique needs in North Miami.

Further discussions revolved around the necessity of workshops and assessments to explore existing city services, emphasizing that not all issues require legislative action. Members advocated for data-driven decision-making, proposing the review of a previous needs assessment to identify service gaps and opportunities for collaboration. The importance of efficiency and cost-effectiveness was stressed.

Budgetary concerns also played a role in the meeting. The commission explored options to supplement the $5,000 allocated for its initiatives by seeking discretionary donations from council members. Governance issues arose, particularly regarding the appointment of a treasurer to manage donations. Although the commission’s current code does not permit an official treasurer without a city council amendment, the board proposed appointing an unofficial treasurer to ensure accountability and transparency in financial management.

The meeting also addressed membership status and reappointment procedures, with an emphasis on ensuring continuity and compliance. Members were urged to submit reappointment applications promptly to avoid quorum issues, despite upcoming elections potentially affecting eligibility.

As the meeting drew to a close, announcements highlighted community engagement opportunities. These included the opening of a new business, the MJD Hope Mobile Clinic, which aims to provide healthcare services to uninsured, particularly undocumented individuals. The commission also reminded attendees of early voting and community events related to Breast Cancer Awareness Month and Domestic Violence Awareness Month, advocating for community participation and awareness.