In response to numerous noise complaints and testimonies from local residents, the board scrutinized the hotel’s compliance with existing regulations and the effectiveness of its noise mitigation efforts. Residents, including Suzanna Puer and Sarah de los Radi, presented videos and testimony detailing how loud music and activities from the hotel have caused disturbances. Gail Durham, a former planning board member, questioned the fairness of the special magistrate hearings for noise violations.

The hotel’s representative, James Ral, cited case reports from code compliance and stressed the hotel’s efforts to comply with regulations. Despite this, the board questioned the validity of the complaints and sought further information on the number of violations and the status of a violation issued after a Cure letter was sent. There was also a disparity between the hotel representative’s claim of no recent complaints or violations and the city staff’s report of a new violation for music heard after 1:00 a.m.

The city’s staff recommended modifications to the CUP, including reverting to a prior language that defined “plainly audible” music as a test for violations between 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. They also proposed altering the permissible DJ hours to align with times when entertainment-level music is provided.

During the meeting, the board considered a motion to schedule a revocation or modification hearing for the hotel in June.

Additionally, the board discussed the installation of a sound monitoring system at the hotel, which the hotel’s representative claimed would help manage noise levels. Despite these efforts, residents continued to express dissatisfaction with the ongoing disturbances and the perceived lack of progress in resolving the issue.

As the board sought to address the noise concerns, they also examined proposals for various other developments across Miami Beach. These included lot splits, a new hotel, and office developments, each with its own set of challenges and considerations.

One such project was a lot split subdivision on Southshore Drive, which aimed to divide a waterfront property into three buildable parcels, each exceeding the minimum lot width requirement. The project received a consensus that it met the zoning requirements.

Another discussion revolved around a proposal for an 8-story, 120-unit workforce housing development on Normandy Drive. The applicant requested amendments to the comprehensive plan and Land Development regulations to facilitate the construction, which included considerable increases in floor area ratio and height, as well as a reduction in parking requirements. The board emphasized the need for further analysis of the project’s impact before making a decision on the proposed amendments.

Further, the board considered a conditional use approval for a new hotel at 1509 and Washington Avenue and Collins Avenue. The applicant’s team presented the project, which included a rooftop restaurant and aimed to align with the resiliency code. Public comments and board members’ concerns highlighted issues such as potential noise from the rooftop restaurant and the overall need for another hotel in the area.

Additionally, the board tackled the repeal of CD2 co-living incentives and deliberated on the need for more long-term housing options. They also discussed sexually transmitted infection (STI) testing regulations.