The focal point of the meeting was the second public budget hearing, where the council solidified the operating millage rate at 5.9604 mills, a 1% decrease from the previous year. This rate, though lower, is still 18.88% above the roll-back rate of 5.14 mills. The anticipated gross taxable value for the city was projected at approximately $6.61 billion, with expected ad valorem revenues amounting to around $30.93 million for the city and $3.39 million for the Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA), totaling approximately $34.32 million. The council unanimously approved this resolution after no public comments were made. Subsequently, the council also approved the budget for the fiscal year 2025, set at $274 million.

The meeting then transitioned to the CRA, where the board approved a $25,000 commercial enhancement grant for Esoteric Networks LLC and a $20,000 residential improvement grant for homeowner Cynthia Thompson. These grants were aimed at property improvements and supporting local employment growth. Additionally, the CRA conveyed a wastewater pump station property back to the city, intending to consider future expansions of the CRA boundaries and potential community use of the area.

Public comments were a vibrant segment of the meeting. Susan Sorantino advocated for amending the Art in Public Places program, arguing for an increase in the development cost collection rate for art from 0.5% to 1.5%. She emphasized the lack of sufficient funding from the $5.8 billion spent on art and culture in Florida, urging the council to support local art purchases. Cardell Hayes celebrated the success of Black Business Month and introduced Mary Dominguez, who highlighted the upcoming Hispanic Heritage Month event, underscoring its importance for the multicultural community.

Other speakers included Mr. Powell, who focused on the needs of seniors in the community, presenting a plan from the Alliance for Aging and advocating for better access to services and information. Travon Brown announced plans for the second annual Breast Cancer Walk, sharing his personal connection to the cause and seeking city support for the event.

Following the public comments, the council deliberated on the public art program guidelines. The proposed increase to 1.5 percent for contributions sparked discussion, with some members advocating for eliminating the option for developers to donate art directly. A motion to increase the percentage and eliminate the donation option was approved unanimously.

The council also addressed an amendment to the city manager’s employment agreement to implement a supplemental payment included in the budget. This motion passed without public comments. A change order for roof repairs at a city building was approved to cover unexpected costs, allowing the project to proceed. Additionally, the council declared a state of emergency and provided updates on construction projects, including a directional drilling method to minimize street disturbance.

Further resolutions included accepting a property conveyance from the CRA, approving new vehicle purchases for the fiscal year, and installing protective relays for electrical utilities. A grant from the Children’s Trust of Miami-Dade County aimed at providing support services for families exposed to violence was also accepted.

The meeting concluded with discussions on various community initiatives. Vice Mayor Fletcher proposed a partnership with a local pharmacist for a flu clinic and raised awareness about Prostate Cancer Awareness Month. He also suggested council collaboration for an annual turkey giveaway. The council welcomed the transition to a portable podium for meetings and announced the formation of a committee to evaluate the city attorney’s services.