Coral Gables Commission Approves Historic Property Additions

Overview: The Coral Gables City Commission recently approved design proposals for additions and alterations to historic properties. Among various items, the most discussions involved the issuance of special certificates of appropriateness for property additions and variances from the zoning code at historic residences within the city’s prominent historic districts.

Coral Gables Grapples with Workforce Housing Zoning Regulations

Overview: The Coral Gables City Commission recently convened to discuss changes to the city’s zoning regulations concerning workforce housing. Among the topics were amendments to align with Miami-Dade County’s mandate for an expedited review process for workforce housing owned, financed, or operated by public entities, and the potential impact of such changes on the city’s control over its properties. The discussion also encompassed the inclusion of city facilities within the purview of workforce housing regulations and the compliance of non-city government facilities with the comprehensive plan.

South Miami Debates Future Growth, Infrastructure, and Affordable Housing

Overview: In a recent South Miami City Council meeting, discussions were dominated by the city’s future growth, infrastructure needs, and affordable housing. This included deliberations on funding mechanisms such as general obligation bonds and public-private partnerships, the feasibility of acquiring more real estate, and prioritizing placemaking initiatives. The council also addressed issues regarding traffic improvements, including the installation of roundabouts and traffic tables, and the impact on local residents.

Coral Gables Commission Debates City Manager’s Future

Overview: During the recent Coral Gables City Commission meeting, discussions centered on the performance and potential termination of City Manager Peter Iglesias, with city residents and officials expressing strong opinions on both sides of the issue. The debate about Iglesias’s future highlighted a deep divide, with some praising his leadership and others calling for new management. The meeting also touched on various concerns, such as city infrastructure, financial decisions, and the conduct of city officials.

South Miami City Council Debates Tree Maintenance and Park Development

Overview: The South Miami City Council meeting raised concerns regarding the maintenance of the city’s trees and the controversial development plans for South Miami Park. Residents and council members discussed the precarious condition of newly planted trees, with reports describing them as “virtually dead.” The council considered options for improving the inspection and maintenance processes, including potentially hiring an in-house arborist or smaller landscape architect to manage such projects. Additionally, vocal opposition from residents was evident towards the proposed commercialization of South Miami Park, with fears that it would disrupt neighborhood peace and accessibility.