A major highlight of the meeting was the council’s unanimous approval of a resolution granting final plat approval for ASP Estates, a 74-unit residential subdivision proposed by DR Horton. This 37-acre development is part of the city’s ongoing efforts to expand housing options. The approval followed a presentation by Merritt Taro, a representative of the development, who confirmed the project’s consistency with the previously approved site plan. The administrative nature of this step was emphasized, as the project had already received prior approvals.

Additionally, the council approved a proposal to construct a one-story single-family home on a grandfathered lot located on Northeast 5th Avenue. The lot, which is less than 7,500 square feet, is situated in a multifamily area, with a four-unit building directly adjacent to the south. The applicant’s representative, Mr. Proctor, expressed support for the staff recommendation, noting that the application had been filed several years before a moratorium was imposed. The motion to approve this development was passed unanimously following a brief discussion among council members.

The City Council meeting also featured deliberations on an extensive redevelopment proposal for the old city hall site, submitted by Related Urban Development Group. This proposal, which has undergone significant revisions since its initiation in 2021, includes plans for 292 residential units, with a mix of affordable and workforce housing, as well as substantial retail space and public areas. The proposal’s purchase price has been adjusted from $12.4 million to $14 million, reflecting changes in the draft.

Related Urban’s president, Albert Milo, emphasized the importance of community involvement in the redevelopment process, highlighting the inclusion of a state-of-the-art VA clinic and military housing as part of the project. Milo also proposed the integration of a secondary facility akin to the Perez Art Museum in Miami. The council was urged to provide direction on the proposal, with discussions focusing on its potential benefits and implications for the community.

In the realm of community engagement, the council discussed the upcoming Homestead Rodeo and the Rotary Club’s Seafood Festival. Representatives from the Rodeo Association expressed optimism about achieving a third consecutive sellout event, mentioning the introduction of a new queen pageant and the participation of contestants from the National Finals Rodeo. The Rotary Club highlighted the financial impact of their festival, which draws over 20,000 attendees and has awarded significant scholarships over the past three years. They sought continued sponsorship from the city, which was confirmed with financial support and in-kind services.

The council also addressed logistical preparations for these events, including parking arrangements at the Old City Hall site for the rodeo. The city manager confirmed these plans to avoid any confusion during the event.

The meeting further included discussions on enhancing the city’s emergency management capabilities through the establishment of a police department substation on the east side of Homestead. This initiative aims to address critical gaps in emergency response infrastructure. The city manager outlined a dual approach, with both short-term leasing options and long-term funding pursuits for a permanent facility. Council members emphasized the importance of this initiative, recognizing its potential to improve emergency management services in the city.

Council discussions also touched on infrastructure and financial management. There was a focus on the city’s long-term road and traffic signalization plans, with requests for a detailed report on necessary expansions and enhancements over the next two decades. Additionally, there was a call for more comprehensive details in the city manager’s monthly reports, particularly concerning department staffing levels and openings.

In a bid to support the veteran community, the council discussed ongoing efforts to improve the Veterans Affairs (VA) facility in South Dade. Council members stressed the urgency of addressing the needs of veterans in the region and urged continued collaboration with Congressman Carlos A. Gimenez to secure funding for a new VA hospital in Homestead.

As the meeting drew to a close, the council addressed routine agenda items, including ratifying collective bargaining agreements with the South Florida Police Benevolent Association for various police ranks, and enacting revised comprehensive council meeting and agenda procedures.