15:39One item at the meeting was the approval of a $200,000 business attraction grant to Paradigm Senior Services. The company, planning to invest a total of $1.2 million in the project, aims to create a modern administrative and training headquarters in North Miami. This initiative is part of Paradigm’s strategy to expand its operations and job offerings in the area. A representative from the company, identified as the CEO, shared that Paradigm currently employs 119 individuals with 27 open positions, emphasizing a preference for local talent in upcoming recruitment efforts, including a planned job fair specifically targeting local residents. The grant was unanimously approved by the CRA board, reflecting strong support for the company’s proposed contributions to the community.

20:07In addition to the Paradigm Senior Services grant, the meeting saw the approval of a $200,000 grant for Masimo Fish and Chicken, Inc. This family-owned Haitian restaurant has been a staple in North Miami Beach for nearly 15 years and plans to relocate and expand within the North Miami CRA boundaries. The grant is intended to support extensive renovations, including parking lot resurfacing, fencing, signage, landscaping, and roof repair, with the total project costs estimated at $975,000. Board members exhibited enthusiasm for the restaurant’s relocation, noting its reputation for quality food and long-standing community engagement. The grant approval passed with a unanimous vote, and the restaurant is expected to open its new location on June 22.

24:50Another focal point was a $300,000 commercial rehabilitation grant for Jimmy’s Diner, a community fixture since 1966. Recently acquired by new owners, the diner serves American breakfast and lunch and is regarded as a significant local establishment. The board discussed the diner’s historical impact and the importance of maintaining such community anchors. The grant, which required waiving certain program guidelines, was unanimously approved.

28:25Furthermore, the meeting addressed legislative updates concerning Florida’s Community Redevelopment Agencies. A proposed bill in the Florida legislature, initially threatening to dismantle CRAs and restrict new programs, was amended. The revised bill no longer proposes eliminating CRAs but does delineate activities that will be prohibited under future regulations, such as sponsoring events like concerts and festivals. Additionally, it sets strict rules on extending CRA lifespans beyond their current expiration dates. The North Miami CRA’s sunset is set for 2045, and while it remains unaffected by the new legislation, neighboring areas could face challenges due to these changes. The executive director provided these updates to clarify potential impacts on the broader community redevelopment landscape.

14:36The meeting also covered the rescinding of a previously awarded business attraction grant for Lagger House, amounting to $150,000. The grant was rescinded because the project was terminated by the grantee, and no funds had been distributed. This decision was finalized through a unanimous vote, with no public comments during the hearing.