01:12:20The council’s primary concern was the unresolved $500,000 loan issued to an entity for affordable housing purposes. The funds originally came from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), and the loan was due in 2021 but remains unpaid as of 2025. Council members stressed the importance of reclaiming these funds to address community needs, such as roof repairs. The entity in question has not only failed to repay the loan but has also been non-compliant with other obligations, including annual reporting on rent rolls and affordable housing requirements since 2016. Additionally, there are ten pending code violations against the property, further exacerbating the situation.

The council discussed the possibility of legal action, including placing a lien on the building, to enforce compliance and secure repayment. The city attorney was tasked with exploring legal avenues, potentially involving outside counsel for aggressive action if necessary. Members expressed frustration over the entity’s continued collection of rents without fulfilling its responsibilities and reiterated the need for immediate negotiation to resolve the issue.

23:06In addition to this pressing financial matter, the council received a positive report on the city’s financial health. Representatives from Anthony Brunson CPA presented the results of the city’s audit for the fiscal period ending September 30, 2024. The city received an unmodified opinion on its financial statements. The audit highlighted an increase in the city’s net position, assets, and liabilities compared to the previous year, with a notable rise in property tax revenue due to increased taxable property values.

35:24The council also discussed the management of unfunded liabilities, specifically sick and vacation time, and the need to maintain fiscal responsibility in the future. Efforts to diversify revenue sources were emphasized, especially in light of the completion of COVID-19-related American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding and anticipated cuts to Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding.

06:35In community matters, several proclamations were made recognizing significant observances. June was declared LGBTQ Pride Month, acknowledging the community’s contributions to Miami-Dade County and their economic impact, with a purchasing power exceeding $15 billion in the area. May was recognized as Fibromyalgia Awareness Month, with discussions on the challenges faced by those diagnosed with the condition, and Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, celebrating their contributions to local culture and economy.

54:58The council also deliberated on a proposal to rename a park and street in honor of Councilman Jacques Despinos, acknowledging his contributions to the Haitian community. The motion to rename Breeze Park and designate a street as Councilman Jacques Despinos Street passed with a 3-0 vote. The naming discussions considered community preferences and the significance of honorific naming.

46:51Lastly, the council received updates on various community programs and initiatives, including grants for businesses, educational opportunities, and summer reading programs. A successful event was held during Haitian Heritage Month, with high attendance and no significant incidents. Additionally, a recent fundraising bike ride raised $40,000 for scholarships, up from $25,000 the previous year.