0:00The most notable item was the presentation of the fiscal year 2024 audit results by Roderick Harvey from HCT, the CRA’s CPA firm. Harvey reported a “clean” audit with no changes in strategy or identified risks. The audit revealed total expenses of $17.4 million. Revenue also increased to $14.8 million from $10 million, mainly attributed to a $52 million bond that boosted revenue from both the city and county. Harvey assured that all expenses adhered to Florida statutes. This financial review underscores the CRA’s fiscal responsibility and the strategic financial planning that has allowed for significant project funding.

51:01Following the audit, the meeting addressed property disposals, highlighting two properties: 12505 Northwest 11th Avenue and 975 Northwest 132nd Street. Applicants presented their cases, with Veronica Gman, a long-time North Miami resident, expressing her desire to purchase the property on 11th Avenue. She cited her community involvement and commitment to improving the neighborhood. Concerns were raised about potential conflicts of interest among applicants Carl Beas and Arthur Eli, who allegedly shared a bank account. However, it was clarified that this did not constitute a conflict under the agency’s guidelines.

Paul Bazil, another applicant for the 11th Avenue property, emphasized his financial commitment, reducing his proposal price and pledging renovation funds. His proposal stood out due to the financial backing and alignment with community goals to eliminate slum and blight. The board ultimately ranked Bazil as the top scorer for this property, moving him forward for negotiation.

The property on Northwest 132nd Street saw Nancy Lor ranked as the top applicant. The executive director confirmed that negotiations would commence with the highest-ranked individuals.

18:13Another major discussion involved the extension of a project timeline delayed by Miami-Dade County’s Department of Environmental Resources Management. The agency sought a six-month extension due to slow progress with environmental cleanup. Some members suggested extending it to nine months, balancing the need for project completion with the constraints of a funding loan that required timely expenditure. The board agreed on a nine-month extension, acknowledging the necessity to adhere to financial deadlines while allowing sufficient time for project execution.

0:00The CRA also approved a resolution with Green Era Sustainable Consulting, Inc., increasing the per-project fee for quality control and inspection services related to housing rehabilitation grants. This agreement reflects the CRA’s ongoing partnership with the consulting firm, which began in 2022.

Additionally, the board approved an interlocal agreement to reimburse the city of North Miami $61,000 for purchasing a sport utility vehicle for the CRA. This purchase, facilitated through cooperative contracts, ensures the CRA has necessary resources for its operations, with the vehicle titled in the agency’s name for insurance purposes.

18:13The meeting concluded with a moment of respect for the mayor, whose mother had recently passed away.