The most pressing topic at the meeting was the proposed TDR program aimed at revitalizing Sunset Drive, a central area in South Miami’s downtown district. The program proposes allowing property owners to transfer unused development rights to incentivize property improvements and reinvestment along Sunset Drive. This initiative aims to address the challenges facing existing tenants and property owners by providing them with the means to improve their properties, thereby enhancing the community. The proposal includes a “sunset fund,” where a $2.50 contribution per square foot would be allocated toward streetscape and development improvements along Sunset Drive.

Multiple speakers supported the TDR initiative, emphasizing its potential to stimulate development and improve the district’s economic vitality. There were calls for a decisive vote. However, concerns were also raised about ensuring that financial investments lead to tangible improvements, with suggestions made to clarify eligible expenditures for TDRs, such as significant remodeling or expansions over basic maintenance.

The TDR program discussions highlighted differing opinions regarding building height limits and the transition between streets. Specific proposals suggested capping building heights to four stories along Sunset Drive, with potential increases further away from the main street. While some participants advocated for greater density to facilitate redevelopment, others emphasized the need for preserving the area’s character.

In tandem with the TDR discussions, the council debated the comprehensive plan’s amendments, which included imposing density caps within the Transit Supported Development District. The proposed changes aimed to establish a maximum of 200 dwelling units per acre, making the zoning more manageable and defensible in terms of potential impacts on city services. These amendments prompted inquiries about the previous zoning regulations, which had lacked such limitations.

The council also revisited the city’s branding initiative. Discussions revealed some council members’ hesitance about the branding rollout, with calls to pause its deployment until further feedback from stakeholders could be gathered. The initiative, which involved a multi-stage process with a branding committee and public input, had received prior endorsements, but concerns about its visibility and effectiveness persisted. There was a suggestion to delay the branding deployment until January to allow for more comprehensive feedback and discussions, particularly with the Town Center Advisory Board.

Additionally, the council addressed infrastructure and public service commitments, including the approval of curbside recycling services and the appointment of a new Director of Public Works. The council unanimously approved the purchase of curbside recycling services for the fiscal year 2024-2025, emphasizing the need for ongoing conversations around recycling efforts. The appointment of Alejandro “Alex” Munoz as the new Director of Public Works was also approved, with the city manager highlighting his extensive experience and suitability for the role.

The meeting further touched on procedural matters, such as amendments to the zoning and comprehensive plan, which sparked debates regarding their potential implications for local neighborhoods. One council member articulated concerns about the risks of upzoning areas close to single-family residential zones without guarantees for improvements, highlighting the conflict between developmental interests and community preservation.