The commission approved two urgent infrastructure projects, emphasizing the need to encumber ARPA funds by the end of the year. The first project involved the issuance of a request for proposals (RFP) for a qualified general contractor to handle the relocation and rehabilitation of Lift Station 4. The city manager stressed the urgency, explaining that the project required expedited approval to allow sufficient time for the bidding process. The second project concerned an invitation to bid for a qualified professional firm to complete drainage utilities and roadway improvements on Cairo Lane and Northwest 127th Street. Both items were approved unanimously.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to a comprehensive presentation by Vision Zero, focusing on a safety action plan for Opa-Locka’s streets and roads. The presentation unveiled a troubling analysis of traffic accidents from 2018 to 2023, noting 6,300 reported crashes with an increase in severe injuries among pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists. The data highlighted that nearly half of these accidents occurred within a quarter-mile of a bus stop, particularly on busy roads with high traffic volumes and speed limits. Vision Zero’s initiative, supported by a grant under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, aims to minimize fatalities and severe injuries by designing roads that account for human error.

The presentation also shed light on the socioeconomic factors influencing these accidents and the financial implications, estimating a societal cost of $343 million due to crashes during the evaluated period. The proposal for a “High Injury Network” aims to identify and prioritize locations for safety improvements.

Public comments during the meeting highlighted community concerns about transparency, safety, and governance. George Suarez criticized the current administration for fostering fear within the community and called for the police department to report directly to the commission rather than the executive office. Brian Dennis echoed these sentiments, expressing discontent with rumors about his character and questioning the integrity of city management. He criticized the police chief’s leadership and the perceived autocratic nature of city governance, emphasizing the need for a more supportive environment for city employees.

The commission also tackled the issue of a business operating without proper compliance. A car dealership on Northwest 144th Street had been functioning for over a year without adhering to the necessary special exception process. Concerns about traffic and safety, particularly near a school, were raised. One commissioner expressed skepticism, stating, “I foresee a problem… I always like to forward think when I vote on stuff, and I just can’t support that.” The decision was deferred to allow more time for obtaining answers from the business owners about their operational plans, particularly concerning the timing of vehicle deliveries to avoid congestion during school hours.

Further discussions centered around a resolution to accept a $500,000 reimbursable grant for urban forestry revitalization in the downtown area. Commissioner Kelley raised concerns about the maintenance of the new trees, emphasizing the city’s existing struggles with maintaining current greenery. He questioned the process for selecting vendors and clarified that no vendors had been officially selected yet. The commission also discussed a resolution concerning the procedure for securing outside legal services, particularly for investigations. An amendment was suggested to ensure the commission is informed whenever the city manager engages outside legal services.

The meeting also addressed the need for updated policies and procedures, particularly concerning handling complaints against employees. The Human Resources Director, Mary Adams, provided an update on the revision of over 80 policies, although the process has taken longer than expected. The commission emphasized the importance of these policies, particularly in light of ongoing investigations involving city employees.

In a less formal segment, the commission approved a motion to permit the sale of alcohol at an upcoming Spanish Heritage event in Opa-Locka. The motion passed unanimously.

The meeting concluded with acknowledgments for community efforts and discussions on ongoing city initiatives, such as the success of a recent baby shower event organized by the city manager’s office and the celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month. The commission also highlighted the importance of local parks and youth sports, with a call for community engagement and participation.