The council also reviewed the city’s financial status with a favorable report on budget variances, approved various infrastructure projects including a significant water main replacement at Bunch Park, and grappled with the settlement of a legal case with the City of Miami Gardens. Public comments touched on diverse issues such as the proposed Dog Hotel, the need for a city event management protocol, and concerns over recycling practices and waste management.

The RTZ discussion took center stage at the council meeting as members deliberated on the implications of the proposed amendment to the city’s comprehensive plan to incorporate the RTZ regulations. The consultant from Kimley Horn presented the proposed boundaries and the comprehensive plan text amendments. The ordinance aligns with the county’s RTZ ordinance objectives to encourage transit ridership, establish a more compact urban form, and promote mixed-use centers that are walkable and connected by transit. The RTZ regulations identify three zones with specific density and floor area ratio allowances based on their proximity to the transit corridor. Public comments raised concerns about the impact of increased density on existing traffic, safety, and the demographic served by the transit changes. The potential loss of views and increased traffic were cited as potential negative consequences. There was also debate about the practicality and desirability of increased transit usage and the potential implications for local residents, with some expressing frustration and concern about the county’s control over local regulations.

The financial update presented at the meeting revealed a positive outlook, with general fund revenues trending higher than budgeted and expenditures lower than projected. Revenues were at about 104% of the budgeted revenues, while expenditures were 87% below the budgeted amount.

Infrastructure projects discussed included the approval of the DSG Bunch Park water main replacement project, part of the city’s Capital Improvement Plan, which aims to replace old water mains in the area of Bunch Park in Miami Gardens. Public comments in support of the project praised the city’s water quality and the need for infrastructure upgrades. Concerns raised by Commissioner Smith about the timeline and scope of the water main replacement led to the city’s water director providing clarification. Commissioner Johan requested updates on other water projects, expressing interest in the phases of the ongoing projects. The resolution for the water main replacement project received unanimous approval.

A proposed settlement agreement between the city and the City of Miami Gardens also stirred debate, as the City Attorney described it as a necessary but not ideal resolution to a legal case with substantial financial implications. Council members expressed frustration about the situation, with one member emphasizing that none of the current council members had voted for the initial decision that led to the dispute. However, the council approved the settlement agreement, recognizing the need to move forward in the best interest of the community.

The Dog Hotel proposal garnered mixed reactions from the public, with some supporting the initiative for pet owners and potential revenue, while others raised concerns about noise and the sustainable demand for such a business. The council’s discussions on this matter focused on operational issues, including how the facility would manage different sizes and temperaments of dogs and the use of a nearby park.

Concerns over recycling practices and waste management also surfaced, with reports of the same truck picking up both recycling and trash. A representative from the waste management company addressed the issue, explaining the use of two trucks in the area and presenting the option of a split body truck. The council approved an amendment to an agreement with Florida International University for the operation of a transfer station, correcting an oversight in the original resolution.

Public comments covered a wide range of concerns, from the need for improved lighting at Aqua Bow Park for safety to the importance of the North Miami Beach Public Library in the upcoming budget. Advocates for various causes, including the recognition of long-serving city employees and the prioritization of educational resources for parents, contributed to the diverse discussion.