A significant portion of the meeting focused on the proposal to engage Business Flare LLC for preparing a finding of necessity under the Community Redevelopment Act. This proposal was presented by the city’s finance director, Scott Menlesburg, who outlined the requirements and benefits of establishing a CRA in Sweetwater. He emphasized the potential financial advantages, noting how CRAs in other Miami-Dade County areas have successfully captured tax increments. Menlesburg suggested the city could see substantial financial benefits from this strategy, with estimates indicating that Sweetwater could retain up to 70% of the increased tax revenue, rather than it being distributed to the county.

The conversation around the CRA included a debate about its geographic focus. Some commissioners expressed interest in targeting the former University City District, but the mayor clarified that the CRA would encompass the entire city.

In parallel, the commission discussed other resolutions aimed at improving the city’s infrastructure. One such resolution authorized the mayor to retain Bowman Consulting Group Ltd, Inc. to provide traffic engineering consulting services. This initiative is expected to address traffic issues in Sweetwater, particularly on notorious avenues like 109. The mayor underscored the need for this study to assess and improve traffic flow. Funding for this project was confirmed to be covered by the city’s budget, with most funds already allocated.

The commission also approved a resolution to retain Alpar Solutions LLC for transit planning services, as required by the Miami-Dade County Citizens Independent Transportation Trust. This collaboration aims to enhance transit planning and ensure compliance with county mandates.

Another topic of interest was the recognition of Officer Orasio Rocha as the officer of the month. Assistant Chief of Police Frank Fernandez presented the award, commending Rocha for his exemplary actions on November 3, 2025, when he and a fellow officer apprehended a suspect connected to multiple sexual battery cases. Rocha’s methodical approach during the arrest was praised.

The meeting also addressed several resolutions under staff items. Resolution A involved amending the city’s land development code to introduce procedures for certified recovery residences, a requirement from state law. This procedural change was clarified by the mayor as necessary for compliance. Resolution B focused on roadway improvements for Southwest 2nd Street, with HR Paving, a local company, contracted for the milling, resurfacing, and striping project. Resolution C authorized the mayor to retain outside counsel for the Southwest 112th widening and bridge construction project, addressing property issues integral to the planned improvements.

The commission’s discussions revealed a strong focus on securing grants for city projects. The mayor emphasized the importance of assembling the necessary documentation to support grant applications.

Further into the meeting, the mayor delivered a report acknowledging the success of recent community events like Ballard Fest and preparations for “Santa Comes to Sweetwater,” scheduled for December 13. The announcement that Santa would arrive via helicopter generated excitement among attendees.

The meeting concluded with commendations for the police department, particularly their initiatives like Operation Grinch, which received positive feedback from residents for enhancing security, especially around Dolphin Mall. The police department’s reputation was highlighted, with commissioners praising its professionalism and effectiveness in reducing crime, notably the absence of gang issues.