A central topic of the meeting was the proposed ordinance PZ3, which would allow the development of affordable housing on land owned by religious institutions. This proposal, dubbed the Yes in God’s Backyard (YIGBY) initiative, was designed to address Miami’s housing crisis by utilizing underused church properties. Proponents, like Erica Scott of Miami Homes for All, argued that the ordinance could expand affordable housing options, as the city is short by approximately 90,000 units. Scott stated, “PZ3 represents a valuable opportunity to increase the supply of affordable housing,” stressing the need to empower local institutions.

However, the proposal faced resistance due to concerns about the lack of support from the religious community and the potential impact on historic church properties. One commissioner pointed out that no local pastors had advocated for the ordinance, questioning its alignment with community needs. The commissioner emphasized the importance of adhering to the standard development process and warned against the risks of allowing expedited development on church lands. “Not one pastor, not one pastor come and ask for this legislation,” they asserted.

The debate underscored a broader tension between development interests and community preservation. Opponents of PZ3 argued that the ordinance lacked necessary checks and balances, potentially jeopardizing historic properties. Concerns were also raised about the potential for churches to face financial pressures, leading to foreclosures or problematic dealings with developers. The motion to adopt the ordinance was ultimately denied.

In parallel, the commission tackled legislation aimed at enforcing business compliance concerning activities with Cuba. The City Attorney outlined modifications to a resolution, directing collaboration with the Miami-Dade County tax collector to ensure adherence to laws governing business tax receipts. The debate centered on the lack of safeguards in the legislation and the potential liability for the city if the statute is challenged constitutionally.

A commissioner recalled past instances where small businesses were unfairly targeted, advocating for federal authorities to handle investigations related to Cuba. They suggested that the commission write to the Department of Justice to urge enforcement of existing sanctions, highlighting the strong anti-communist sentiment within Miami’s Cuban American community. The resolution was passed, with an added directive to send a letter to federal authorities, balancing community concerns with legal prudence.

The meeting also addressed other topics, including a proposed ordinance to allow temporary off-site commercial advertising on construction fencing. This proposal sparked substantial debate due to concerns over visual clutter and the impact on community aesthetics. Critics argued that similar initiatives in other cities had led to enforcement challenges and neighborhood blight. The ordinance was ultimately deferred indefinitely to facilitate further community engagement and address these issues.

In addition, the commission considered several zoning and planning items, including the renaming of parks and amendments to building inspection fees. The discussion on PZ3 was a focal point, with commissioners divided over the ordinance’s implications for community representation and the preservation of local churches.