The presentation revealed that the city forecasts a 600% increase in registered EVs by 2030, although this will still constitute a small fraction of total vehicle ownership. The proposed plan includes the installation of 20% of the anticipated 288 home charging ports and 57 public charging ports needed by 2030, with a portion focused on fast charging stations. However, council members quickly noted an imbalance, with only two charging stations planned for the west side of the city, compared to 18 on the east side. This discrepancy raised concerns about accessibility and the logistical challenges for residents in underserved areas.

A council member articulated the community’s dissatisfaction, stating, “I have folks where I stay who’s asking me about station… If it was like four, I get it.

Further complicating the issue, state laws have limited local governments’ ability to regulate EV infrastructure directly, preempting them from requiring specific EV-ready parking spaces in new developments. While local authorities can own and manage public charging stations, their regulatory scope is largely confined to permitting processes focused on safety rather than location or aesthetics. This limitation raised questions about the necessity and efficacy of the master plan, given the constraints on local regulatory powers.

The discussion also touched on the financial implications of the proposed $4 million investment in charging infrastructure. Some council members questioned whether this investment was prudent, arguing that private developers should bear the responsibility of installing charging stations as a market-driven initiative to attract tenants.

The council members expressed a commitment to revisiting the distribution plan to address these concerns and ensure equitable access across the city.

In addition to the EV master plan, the council meeting covered several other topics. The nomination of Teresa Terrellis for the position of city manager was another focal point. The nomination process, which bypassed a traditional application and interview procedure, drew mixed reactions. Some council members and residents questioned the transparency and fairness of the process, while others supported the nomination, emphasizing the need for stable leadership familiar with the city’s operations.

The mayor defended the decision, emphasizing the need for steady governance amid ongoing city projects and challenges.

Additionally, discussions on infrastructure projects revealed ongoing concerns about budget allocations and project management. The council addressed issues related to the frequency of change orders in construction projects, emphasizing the need for better estimates and oversight to prevent unforeseen costs. This conversation underscored the broader challenges of managing city resources effectively and ensuring transparency in municipal projects.

The meeting also touched on community engagement initiatives, with announcements about green rehabilitation grants, educational programs, and cultural celebrations for Haitian Heritage Month. These initiatives aim to foster community involvement and support diverse cultural expressions within North Miami.