The presentation on the impact fees was led by Greg Reay, the director of planning and community development, with contributions from Peter Napoli of Stantech Consulting. Napoli provided a detailed overview of the study, which examined the current fee structure and proposed new rates. The study underscored the importance of updating the fees to align with the city’s growth and infrastructure demands while complying with state legislation that limits annual fee increases.

The study proposed significant modifications to the fee structure. For example, the parks impact fee would rise from $0.99 to $1.31 per square foot. Public safety fees were proposed to increase from $0.17 to $0.20 per square foot, which is an 18% rise. The most substantial change was suggested for the sewer impact fee, with an increase from $1,279 to $2,400 per Equivalent Residential Unit (ERU), translating to an 88% hike. However, state regulations cap the sewer fee increase at 50%, necessitating a phased implementation over four years.

The presentation also highlighted comparisons with other regional municipalities, positioning Opa-Locka’s proposed fees as competitive within the area. The parks and recreation impact fee, for instance, would increase from $1,497 to $1,965, placing Opa-Locka in the middle range compared to neighboring cities. Similarly, the water and sewer impact fees would rise from a combined $2,700 to $3,600, slightly elevating the city’s ranking in regional comparisons.

An essential aspect of the discussion was the application of these fees to various types of developments. While the presentation primarily used single-family homes for illustrative purposes, it was clarified that the fees would apply to all new developments, including commercial and industrial properties. Additionally, exemptions for affordable housing projects were mentioned, which could alleviate the financial burden of upfront fees.

Commissioners engaged with the presentation, posing questions about the scope and implementation of the proposed fees. One commissioner queried the applicability of the fees beyond residential properties, receiving clarification that the fees would indeed encompass a wider range of developments. Another commissioner appreciated the depth of the analysis, highlighting the regulatory requirement for regular fee updates every two to three years.

The commission also discussed the necessary procedural steps following the fee adjustments. Public hearings would be required to amend the city ordinances, and a 90-day notice period, mandated by state law, would precede the collection of the new fees. It was noted that the city attorney’s office would handle the public notice, aiming to present the proposal in January during the second meeting, necessitating two readings before finalization.

Despite opening the floor to public comments, none were made, allowing for a swift closure of that segment. The meeting concluded with a motion to adjourn after thoroughly covering the impact fee adjustments and the requisite procedural considerations.