A central topic was the proposal to amend the city’s Land Development regulations to require a supermajority vote from the city commission before approving any increase in property zoning height. This measure aimed to introduce stricter controls on height regulations, reflecting concerns over rampant development pressures. Committee members expressed apprehension about the ease with which height increases could currently be approved, potentially without sufficient community input. Acknowledging the intertwined nature of height and density in development projects, the proposal sought to elevate the threshold for approvals, thereby encouraging developers to engage more meaningfully with the community before seeking such changes.

Supporting the proposal, some public comments echoed the need for more control over height increases, particularly in Miami Beach’s historic districts. The intention was to foster better projects and community involvement. The committee’s discussions highlighted the necessity of maintaining Miami Beach’s historic integrity while accommodating necessary growth, with some suggesting that different voting thresholds could be explored based on the historic significance of the project in question.

In contrast, other committee members stressed the importance of flexibility within the regulations, warning that overly restrictive measures might impede the ability to incentivize preservation efforts. The example of the Stanton Hotel was cited, where a height increase was granted following recommendations from the Historic Preservation Board. This case illustrated how height increases, when managed carefully, could act as a tool for revitalizing historically significant properties that might otherwise be at risk of neglect or demolition.

Further complicating the matter is the constraint imposed by the city charter, which prohibits any height variance exceeding three feet without legislative amendments. The committee agreed to move forward with a motion to present the proposed voting thresholds to the city commission.

Turning to other matters, the committee examined the conversion of co-living and transient units to permanent apartments within the North Beach TCC District. The discussion centered on the challenges posed by short-term rentals, which limit the availability of residential units for full-time residents. The committee explored potential strategies to incentivize developers to convert transient units into non-transient options, with ideas such as offering height allowances being floated. However, it was acknowledged that such arrangements would require cooperation from property owners and developers.

The condition of seawalls and the potential upgrades for Alton Court also garnered attention. Committee members expressed concerns about the maintenance of private seawalls, particularly in the Palm View area, where inconsistencies between private and city-owned seawalls present flooding risks. The committee discussed the need for a separate survey to identify gaps and vulnerabilities.

The committee then focused on potential infrastructure upgrades for Alton Court, targeting improvements such as resurfacing, sidewalk repairs, and enhanced signage. The proposed $400,000 pilot project would also promote the alleyway as a safe route for cyclists and pedestrians amidst ongoing construction on West Avenue. Public comments reflected support for these improvements, particularly from residents who frequently use the alleyways for cycling.

In another major discussion, the committee addressed the implications of a dedicated bus lane on Washington Avenue. The proposed lane is part of the County’s Smart Plan. However, concerns were raised about the potential impact on traffic and parking, as well as the necessity of completing a detailed traffic analysis. The committee emphasized the need for integration between transportation infrastructure and land development regulations.

Finally, the committee revisited the ongoing geobond beachwalk reforestation project, which aims to plant approximately 600 trees along the beachwalk. Funded by a $1 million U.S. Forest Service grant and the 2018 geobond, the project seeks to increase the city’s canopy coverage. However, concerns were raised about the aesthetic impact and potential legal challenges from residents concerned about obstructed views.