City Commission Meeting

City of Lauderhill Attend via Computer: https://www.colvcm.com City Commission Chambers at City Hall 5581 W. Oakland Park Blvd. Lauderhill, FL, 33313 www.lauderhill-fl.gov Meeting Minutes - Final Monday, March 29, 2021 7:00 PM Attend via phone: Dial 1-312-626-6799 & Meeting ID: 912 5731 0688 City Commission Meeting LAUDERHILL CITY COMMISSION Mayor Ken Thurston Vice Mayor Denise D. Grant Commissioner Melissa P. Dunn Commissioner Lawrence Martin Commissioner Sarai Martin Desorae Giles-Smith, City Manager Andrea M. Anderson, City Clerk Earl Hall, City Attorney City Commission Meeting Meeting Minutes - Final March 29, 2021 I CALL TO ORDER II COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE PUBLIC (AND RESPONSES TO THE PUBLIC, IF THE TIME PERMITS DURING THIS PORTION OF THE MEETING OF THE CITY COMMISSION) III ADJOURNMENT (NO LATER THAN 7:30 PM) I CALL TO ORDER OF REGULAR MEETING Mayor Thurston called to order the Regular City Commission Meeting at 7:04 PM. Mayor Thurston explained the present meeting was being conducted in a new and challenging era, as the City of Lauderhill, Broward County, the State of Florida, the United States of America, and the world were experiencing new challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Due to the challenges of the virus, the City would continue to hold hybrid, virtual governmental meetings in accordance with the Center for Disease Control (CDC) COVID 19 guidelines, the State of Florida Governor Ron DeSantis Executive Order 20-52, City Code Chapter 8.5, and Florida statutes. The waiver of the physical presence requirement expired, and board members were required to be physically present at public meetings. As a result, all members of the City Commission were present in the Commission Chambers at City Hall assessing the virtual meeting from their laptops. Due to the nature of the meeting and the constraints of holding a virtual hybrid meeting, he asked for everyone’s patience. Anyone wishing to speak should let him know by asking to do so. The microphones of all members of the Commission would be live during the entire meeting, while City staff and members of the public attending the meeting remotely would be muted. He said anyone having issues should text IT Director Doug Downs, thanking everyone for their patience and cooperation during such difficult and ever changing times. II ROLL CALL Present: 5- Commissioner Melissa P. Dunn,Vice Mayor Denise D. Grant,Commissioner Lawrence Martin,Commissioner Sarai Martin, and Mayor Ken Thurston ALSO PRESENT: Desorae Giles-Smith, City Manager Earl Hall, City Attorney Constance Stanley, Police Chief Andrea M. Anderson, City Clerk III PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG FOLLOWED BY GOOD AND WELFARE A. A MOMENT OF SILENCE FOR MICHAEL FORREST, JR. (REQUESTED BY VICE MAYOR DENISE D. GRANT). HOUSEKEEPING City of Lauderhill Page 1 City Commission Meeting Meeting Minutes - Final March 29, 2021 A motion was made by Vice Mayor D. Grant, seconded by Commissioner S. Martin, to ACCEPT the Revised Version of the City Commission Meeting Agenda for March 29, 2021. The motion carried by the following vote: Yes: 5- Commissioner M. Dunn, Vice Mayor D. Grant, Commissioner L. Martin, Commissioner S. Martin, and Mayor K. Thurston Abstain: 0 IV CONSIDERATION OF CONSENT AGENDA A motion was made by Commissioner L. Martin, seconded by Commissioner M. Dunn, that this Consent Agenda was approved. The motion carried by the following vote: Yes: 5- Commissioner M. Dunn, Vice Mayor D. Grant, Commissioner L. Martin, Commissioner S. Martin, and Mayor K. Thurston Abstain: 0 V APPROVAL OF MINUTES A. Minutes of the City Commission Meeting for March 8, 2021. Attachments: March 8, 2021 - City Commission Meeting Minutes These Minutes were approved on the Consent Agenda. (See Consideration of Consent Agenda for vote tally.) VI PROCLAMATIONS / COMMENDATIONS A. A PROCLAMATION HONORING BARBARA FLECKMAN AND VERONNE MCMAIN (REQUESTED BY COMMISSIONER SARAI MARTIN). B. A PROCLAMATION RECOGNIZING SPOONS RESTAURANT (REQUESTED BY COMMISSIONER LAWRENCE MARTIN). VII SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS VIII GENERAL PRESENTATIONS (5 MINUTES MAXIMUM) A. REMOVED B. A PRESENTATION ANNOUNCING LAUDERHILL SHINES II SELECTED PARTICIPANTS (REQUESTED BY COMMISSIONER MELISSA P. DUNN). C. A PRESENTATION ON THE LAUDERHILL HEALTH AND PROSPERITY PARTNERSHIP COMMUNITY NEEDS ASSESSMENT (REQUESTED BY COMMISSIONER MELISSA P. DUNN). D. AN UPDATE FROM THE EDUCATIONAL ADVISORY BOARD (REQUESTED BY CITY MANAGER DESORAE GILES-SMITH). E. REMOVED City of Lauderhill Page 2 City Commission Meeting Meeting Minutes - Final March 29, 2021 IX ORDINANCES & PUBLIC HEARINGS - FIRST READING (NOT ON CONSENT AGENDA) (AS ADVERTISED IN THE SUN-SENTINEL) 1. ORDINANCE NO. 21O-03-105: AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL APPROVING THE QUIT CLAIM DEEDS FROM THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL TO KEVIN LARUE CARROLL AND RAYMOND ROY MCKENZIE DEEDING THE OWNERSHIP OF A PORTION OF RIGHT-OF-WAY ALONG N.W. 46th AVENUE AS MORE PARTICULARLY DESCRIBED IN THE QUIT CLAIM DEEDS; APPROVING THE RESERVATION OF RIGHTS AGREEMENTS OF PERMANENT AND NON-EXCLUSIVE UTILITY, ACCESS AND MAINTENANCE EASEMENTS IN FAVOR OF THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE (REQUESTED BY CITY MANAGER, DESORAE GILES-SMITH). Attachments: ORD 21O-03-105 - ORD-Deeds & Reservation of Rights-ROW N.W. 46 Avenue AR 21O-03-105 Ex. A- Quit Claim Deed - NW 46 Avenue - Kevin Larue Carroll.pdf Ex. B - Quit Claim Deed - NW 46 Avenue - Raymond Roy McKenzie.pdf ORD 19O-08-123 Vacation Abandonment of Portion of NW 46 Avenue This Ordinance was approved on the Consent Agenda on first reading to the City Commission Meeting, due back on 04/12/2021. (See Consideration of Consent Agenda for vote tally.) 2. ORDINANCE NO. 21O-03-106: AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF LAUDERHILL, FLORIDA AMENDING THE LAND DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS PERTAINING TO AUTOMOTIVE USE CLASSIFICATIONS WITHIN THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL; AMENDING LDR SCHEDULE A- LAND USE CLASSIFICATIONS; AMENDING LDR SCHEDULE B- ALLOWABLE USES ; AMENDING ARTICLE I GENERAL PROVISIONS SEC. 1.5. - DEFINITIONS, GENERAL; AMENDING ARTICLE III- ZONING DISTRICTS, SECTION 5.7 - AUTOMOBILE, TRUCK, TRAILER, MOTORCYCLE, BOAT, RECREATION VEHICLE.; PROVIDING FOR FINDINGS AND CONCLUSIONS; PROVIDING FOR CONFLICTS; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE (REQUESTED BY CITY MANAGER, DESORAE GILES-SMITH). Attachments: ORD-21O-03-106-Auto Classications.pdf AR 21O-03-106 DRR_Automotive_Use_Classification Item 1 Exhibit A- Proposed Text Amendment Attachment B- Memo This Ordinance was approved on the Consent Agenda on first reading to the City City of Lauderhill Page 3 City Commission Meeting Meeting Minutes - Final March 29, 2021 Commission Meeting, due back on 04/12/2021. (See Consideration of Consent Agenda for vote tally.) 3. ORDINANCE NO. 21O-03-107: AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL, FLORIDA AMENDING THE LAND DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS PERTAINING TO AUTOMOTIVE USES ALONG MARTIN LUTHER KING JR BLVD./N.W. 31ST AVE.; AMENDING SCHEDULE H, NONCONFORMING LAND USE PROVISIONS TO ADD SECTION 1.18, AMORTIZATION PERIOD FOR AUTOMOTIVE USES LOCATED ALONG MARTIN LUTHER KING JR BLVD./N.W. 31ST AVE.; PROVIDING FOR FINDINGS AND CONCLUSIONS; PROVIDING FOR CONFLICTS; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE (REQUESTED BY CITY MANAGER, DESORAE GILES-SMITH). Attachments: ORD-21R-03-107-Amortization-Auto Uses.pdf AR 21O-03-107 DRR_Automotive_AMORTIZATION Item 2 Exhibit A - Annexation Related Ordinances and Resolutions 2001.docx Item 2 Exhibit B- 18R-03-47 Item 2 Exhibit C- CRA Necessity Report Item 2 Exhibit D- Annexed Areas Address Map1 Item 2 Exhibit E - SE CRA REDEVELOPMENT PLAN - OVERALL - FINA-compressed Item 2 Exhibit F - Letter to Public Item 2 Exhibit G - November 18, 2019 - City Commission Workshop Minutes Item 2 Exhibit H- Proposed Text Amendment This Ordinance was approved on the Consent Agenda on first reading to the City Commission Meeting, due back on 04/12/2021. (See Consideration of Consent Agenda for vote tally.) 4. REMOVED 4A. ORDINANCE NO. 21O-03-109: AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL CODE OF ORDINANCES, CHAPTER 2, ADMINISTRATION, ARTICLE IV, CITY COMMISSION, SECTION 2-155, WORKSHOP MEETINGS; CHANGING THE START TIME TO 4:00 P.M.; PROVIDING FOR CODIFICATION; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE (REQUESTED BY CITY MANAGER DESORAE GILES-SMITH). Attachments: ORD-21O-03-109-Code-2_155._Workshop Meetings.pdf AR 21O-03-109 This Ordinance was approved on the Consent Agenda on first reading to the City Commission Meeting, due back on 04/12/2021. (See Consideration of Consent City of Lauderhill Page 4 City Commission Meeting Meeting Minutes - Final March 29, 2021 Agenda for vote tally.) X ORDINANCES & PUBLIC HEARINGS - SECOND READING (NOT ON CONSENT AGENDA) (AS ADVERTISED IN THE SUN-SENTINEL) 5. ORDINANCE NO. 21O-03-104: AN ORDINANCE APPROVING THE BUDGET REVIEW OF REVENUE AND EXPENDITURE AMENDMENTS FOR FISCAL YEAR 2021 IN THE TOTAL ADJUSTMENT AMOUNT OF $3,173,444.00; APPROVING AN INTERDEPARTMENT BUDGET ADJUSTMENT IN THE AMOUNT OF $96,077.00, A CAPITAL BUDGET ADJUSTMENT IN THE AMOUNT OF $944,065.00 AND A SUPPLEMENTAL APPROPRIATION IN THE AMOUNT OF $2,133,302.00; REFLECTING APPROPRIATE ADJUSTMENTS TO VARIOUS REVENUE AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNTS; PROVIDING VARIOUS BUDGET CODE NUMBERS; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE (REQUESTED BY CITY MANAGER, DESORAE GILES-SMITH). Attachments: ORD-21O-03-104-Budget Adjustment & Appropriation FY 2021.pdf AR 21O-03-104 Supplemental 2021 q3.pdf This Ordinance was approved on the Consent Agenda. (See Consideration of Consent Agenda for vote tally.) XI RESOLUTIONS (IF NOT ON CONSENT AGENDA) 6. REMOVED 7. REMOVED 8. RESOLUTION NO. 21R-03-60: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL, FLORIDA, SUPPORTING HOUSE RESOLUTION NO. 148 OF THE 117th UNITED STATES HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES REQUESTING THE EXONERATION OF MARCUS GARVEY; PROVIDING FOR DISTRIBUTION; PROVIDING FOR CONFLICTS; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE (REQUESTED BY VICE MAYOR DENISE D. GRANT). Attachments: RES 21R-03-60 - Support Exoneration of Marcus Garvey AR 21R-03-60 Marcus Garvey-BILLS-117hres148ih.pdf Vice Mayor Grant remarked Marcus Garvey once said a people without the knowledge of their past, history, origin or culture was like a tree without roots. He was a prominent figure in black history, born in Jamaica on August 17, 1887, and was the youngest of 11 children during the reconstruction period in the U.S. and the rise of the Ku Klux Klan. He was known as a freedom fighter, migrating to the U.S. City of Lauderhill Page 5 City Commission Meeting Meeting Minutes - Final March 29, 2021 in 1916 at the age of 29, where he fought with African Americans to secure the rights they deserved and encouraged activism in the fight for civil rights. She noted Mr. Garvey founded the Universal Negro Improvement Association (UNIA) to work to generally uplift Negro peoples around the world. He worked alongside Booker T. Washington in the fight for the rights of black citizens, and he started speaking on the street sides in New York and, subsequently, built a following of nearly four million blacks worldwide, including, approximately, two million African Americans, inspiring hope in a more just and prosperous future. Vice Mayor Grant stated, in 1921, he organized one of the largest conferences in New York City with black leaders across the world, and Mr. Garvey continued his Harlem speeches and toured the country with his message of justice for black people. In his short time in the U.S., Mr. Garvey stood as a beacon at a time when African Americans needed the buttress and leadership in their now post-slavery life and during the early years of Jim Crow Laws. He gained the attention of J. Edgar Hoover, who made Mr. Garvey a prime target to take down the growing black race movement. She remarked, despite the separate but equal laws, passed in 1898 which still oppressed African Americans, Mr. Garvey built a thriving enterprise in the Black Star Line membership of the UNIA and the newspaper. He was extremely outspoken and, as a result, he was placed in jail; after his release from prison and deportation to Jamaica, he continued his work, establishing the People’s Political Party, Jamaica’s first modern political organization with a platform that focused on workers’ rights and the poor. She said Mr. Garvey was named the first of seven Jamaican National Heroes, the highest honor accorded to a Jamaican citizen by the Jamaican government. Vice Mayor Grant noted Mr. Garvey placed himself in harm’s way in his quest to uplift black people as a whole, and he continued to be a beacon of light in America; he stood up for liberty, justice, and the advancement of rights for all black people, and he left a mark on the U.S.A. in an indescribable way. With this in mind, Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke introduced House Resolution No. 148 of the 117th U.S. House of Representatives, further supported by a resolution from the City of Lauderhill. She asked her colleagues, as they thought about Marcus Garvey, to pass the subject resolution to recognize the work he did in the U.S. for all black persons, and communicate that the City stood with him and Congresswoman Clarke to clear Mr. Garvey’s name and exonerate him. She introduced Remmington Belford, stating he worked with Congresswoman Clarke, who was unable to attend the present meeting due to a prior engagement. Remmington Belford, representative for Congresswoman Clarke in New York’s Ninth Congressional District Central and South Brooklyn, commented Congresswoman Clarke asked him to apologize for her absence, and convey her sincerest support for the subject resolution. He said Congresswoman Clarke was the chair of the Congressional Caribbean Caucus, as well as the chair of the House subcommittee, Homeland Security, focusing on cyber security and innovation. Congresswoman Clarke prioritized the Marcus Garvey legislation, as she was a woman of Jamaican descent, and she was guided by Mr. Garvey’s prolific tutelage, lineage, and history, so much so that included in the resolution was language stating Mr. Garvey was innocent of the charges brought against him by the U.S. government at the time. Mr. Garvey should be recognized internationally as a leader and a thinker in the struggle for human rights. Congresswoman Clarke wished to urge President Biden to take appropriate measures within his power to exonerate Mr. Garvey and clear his good name, and she was focused on prioritizing this momentous and prolific legislation. Marcus Garvey was one of the fathers of City of Lauderhill Page 6 City Commission Meeting Meeting Minutes - Final March 29, 2021 the Pan-Africanism movement, focusing on uniting people of African descent globally, as well as a proponent for human rights, highlighting an advanced economic self-sufficiency, and inspiring many prolific leaders over the years. Mr. Garvey should be lauded globally for his lineage, legacy, and contributions to every person inspired by his tutelage. Mr. Belford said he was proud to join the City Commission to work collectively to restore Mr. Garvey’s rightful place in global, collective history. He ended his commentary on a quote by Mr. Garvey that continued to inspire him, “The ends you serve that are selfish will take you no further than yourself, but the ends that you serve that are for all in common will take you into eternity.” He, again, thanked the Commission for joining Congresswoman Clarke in her efforts; he looked forward to when everyone could, collectively, see the success of their works. A motion was made by Commissioner L. Martin, seconded by Commissioner M. Dunn, that this Resolution be approved. The motion carried by the following vote: Yes: 5- Commissioner M. Dunn, Vice Mayor D. Grant, Commissioner L. Martin, Commissioner S. Martin, and Mayor K. Thurston Abstain: 0 9. RESOLUTION NO. 21R-03-61: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL APPROVING THE ELECTION OF ALICIA ALEXANDER TO SERVE AS THE EMPLOYEE REPRESENTATIVE MEMBER OF THE GENERAL EMPLOYEE PENSION BOARD FOR A TWO (2) YEAR TERM EXPIRING JANUARY 2023; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. Attachments: RES 21R-03-61 - Brd-GE Pension Employee Appt AR 21R-03-61 General Employees Pension Board List General Employees Pension Board Election Nomination for City of Lauderhill General Employees Pension Board Trustee - Alicia Alexander 03.10.2021 This Resolution was approved on the Consent Agenda. (See Consideration of Consent Agenda for vote tally.) 10. RESOLUTION NO. 21R-03-62: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL APPOINTING STEPHENIE WHITFIELD BY COMMISSIONER SARAI MARTIN TO SERVE AS A MEMBER OF THE PUBLIC ART COMMITTEE FOR THE REMAINDER OF A TERM THAT SHALL EXPIRE CONCURRENT WITH THE COMMISSIONER SEAT OR NOVEMBER 2024; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE (REQUESTED BY SARAI "RAY" MARTIN). Attachments: RES-21R-03-62-Brd-Public Art Committee.pdf AR 21R-03-62 Public Art Committee List Whitfield, Stephenie City of Lauderhill Page 7 City Commission Meeting Meeting Minutes - Final March 29, 2021 This Resolution was approved on the Consent Agenda. (See Consideration of Consent Agenda for vote tally.) 11. RESOLUTION NO. 21R-03-63: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL APPOINTING CRYSTAL ARNOLD BY COMMISSIONER SARAI MARTIN TO SERVE AS A MEMBER OF THE RECREATION ADVISORY BOARD FOR THE REMAINDER OF A TERM THAT SHALL EXPIRE CONCURRENT WITH THE COMMISSIONER SEAT OR NOVEMBER 2024; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE (REQUESTED BY COMMISSIONER SARAI "RAY" MARTIN) Attachments: RES-21R-03-63-Brd-Rec Board.pdf AR 21R-03-63 Recreation Advisory Board List Arnold, Crystal This Resolution was approved on the Consent Agenda. (See Consideration of Consent Agenda for vote tally.) 12. RESOLUTION NO. 21R-03-64: A RESOLUTION APPROVING THE REMETERING AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL AND DAVID MOORE TO ALLOW SUBMETERS AT THE PROPERTY LOCATED AT 2240-2244 N.W. 59TH WAY, LAUDERHILL, FLORIDA, IN ORDER TO SEPARATELY BILL EACH INDIVIDUAL USER BASED UPON ACTION WATER CONSUMPTION AT THE SAME RATE UTILIZED BY THE CITY; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE (REQUESTED BY CITY MANAGER, DESORAE GILES-SMITH). Attachments: RES 21R-03-64 - Agrmt-Rem-2240 NW 59 Way AR 21R-03-64 Remetering Agreement_2240_2244 NW 59th Way_03 08 2021.pdf This Resolution was approved on the Consent Agenda. (See Consideration of Consent Agenda for vote tally.) 13. RESOLUTION NO. 21R-03-65: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL RENEWING AND RESTATING THE STRONG OBJECTION TO THE USE OF N.W. 44TH STREET AND N.W. 64TH AVENUE FOR INGRESS AND EGRESS TO THE RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT PROPOSED BY THE DEVELOPER 13TH FLOOR WOODLANDS HB GP IN THE CITY OF TAMARAC; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE (REQUESTED BY COMMISSIONER LAWRENCE MARTIN). Attachments: RES-21R-03-65-Renew Opposition to 13th Floor-Woodlands-local roads access.pdf AR 21R-03-65 RES 19R-04-64 Object and Oppose Use NW 44 St. NW 64 Ave. - Proposed by 13th Floor Woodlands HB GP City of Lauderhill Page 8 City Commission Meeting Meeting Minutes - Final March 29, 2021 Commissioner L. Martin remarked the subject situation was ongoing with the City of Tamarac and their desire to build a new development in the Woodlands area and consistently looking at opening access roads through the City’s existing residential areas. This was something the City of Lauderhill voiced strong opposition to in the past, and he thought it proper for the City to reestablish Lauderhill’s position opposing any such legislation Tamarac considered regarding access to NW 44th Street and NW 64th Avenue. Mayor Thurston thought it fitting and proper to bring the subject matter back before the Commission to reestablish the City’s position, as the City Commission had three new members since the City’s resolution opposing the abovementioned actions was approved. A motion was made by Commissioner L. Martin, seconded by Commissioner S. Martin, that this Resolution be approved. The motion carried by the following vote: Yes: 5- Commissioner M. Dunn, Vice Mayor D. Grant, Commissioner L. Martin, Commissioner S. Martin, and Mayor K. Thurston Abstain: 0 14. RESOLUTION NO. 21R-03-66: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL, FLORIDA, OPPOSING SENATE BILL 284, THAT WOULD PREEMPT LOCAL GOVERNMENTS FROM ADOPTING ZONING AND DEVELOPMENT DESIGN STANDARDS FOR SINGLE AND TWO-FAMILY DWELLINGS; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE (REQUESTED BY COMMISSIONER LAWRENCE "JABBOW" MARTIN). Attachments: RES-21R-03-66-Oppose Bill-Preemption of Zoning and Design standards.pdf AR 21R-03-66 SB 284 Commissioner L. Martin wished to be consistent in his efforts to help local residents stay in touch with City agendas, noting the Florida League of Cities constantly monitored what was taking place in Tallahassee, as by the time actions were taken and trickled down to local governments, the latter had little to no say in anything. He said Senate Bill 284 was up for consideration in Tallahassee; the bill sought to take away the rights of local governments to have a say in how houses were built in terms of design, color palette, etc. He wished the Commission to approve the subject resolution, and for City staff to forward the resolution to Tallahassee to indicate the City’s opposition to Senate Bill 284, following the recommendation of the Florida League of Cities, as cities wished to maintain the right to enforce some regulations over their housing products. If the bill passed, the City’s ability to enforce its color palette would disappear. Mayor Thurston opened the discussion to the public. Robert Crum, 3601 NW 7th Place, Lauderhill, voiced his full support for the subject resolution that sought to have the City retain control over the appearance and City of Lauderhill Page 9 City Commission Meeting Meeting Minutes - Final March 29, 2021 design of its housing. It was vital for Lauderhill, as a community, to understand the importance of the actions taken by its City Commission, and for residents to vocalize and become a part of those actions. The measures the bill sought to implement were very serious and would take a significant amount of control from local governments over their housing, so he thanked the Commission for its vigilance in seeking to prevent that from happening. Mayor Thurston received no further input from the public. A motion was made by Commissioner L. Martin, seconded by Commissioner S. Martin, that this Resolution be approved. The motion carried by the following vote: Yes: 5- Commissioner M. Dunn, Vice Mayor D. Grant, Commissioner L. Martin, Commissioner S. Martin, and Mayor K. Thurston Abstain: 0 15. RESOLUTION NO. 21R-03-67: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL, FLORIDA, OPPOSING SENATE BILL 266 AND HOUSE BILL 403, THAT WOULD PREEMPT LOCAL GOVERNMENTS FROM ADOPTING ANY ORDINANCES OR RESOLUTIONS THAT WOULD REGULATE HOME-BASED BUSINESSES; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE (REQUESTED BY COMMISSIONER LAWRENCE "JABBOW" MARTIN). Attachments: RES-21R-03-67-Oppose Bill-Preemption of Home-Based Business regulations .pdf AR 21R-03-67 SB 266 Commissioner L. Martin remarked, through the Florida League of Cities, his eyes were being opened to how much many people at the local level had no idea what was happening in Tallahassee. This was another instance in which if Senate Bill 266 and House Bill 403 were to pass in Tallahassee, a resident could, for example, end up living next door to someone who established a propane storage facility on their residential property and distributed gas canisters to customers. He said the bills sought to take away from local governments the right to regulate businesses conducted in residential areas from people’s homes. Though there were some businesses that could be legitimately run from one’s home, it would be a reason to panic if residents discovered their city government had no control over the types of businesses and related activities at their neighbor’s home. He sought to pay attention to the various bills and other activities taking place in Tallahassee that affected the City and alert the community, so they understood what legislators were trying to do; at least the City of Lauderhill was formally on the record in communicating its opposition to such bills. A motion was made by Commissioner L. Martin, seconded by Vice Mayor D. Grant, that this Resolution be approved. The motion carried by the following vote: Yes: 5- Commissioner M. Dunn, Vice Mayor D. Grant, Commissioner L. Martin, Commissioner S. Martin, and Mayor K. Thurston City of Lauderhill Page 10 City Commission Meeting Meeting Minutes - Final March 29, 2021 Abstain: 0 16. RESOLUTION NO. 21R-03-69: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL CONDEMNING AND DENOUNCING ALL FORMS OF ANTI-ASIAN SENTIMENT AND ALL ACTS OF RACISM, XENOPHOBIA, INTOLERANCE, DISCRIMINATION, HATE CRIME, AND HATE SPEECH AGAINST ASIAN AMERICANS AND ASIAN INDIVIDUALS IN THE UNITED STATES; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE (REQUESTED BY VICE MAYOR DENISE D. GRANT). Attachments: RES-21R-03-69-Oppose Racism Against Asian Americans.pdf AR 21R-03-69 A Community-Centered Response to Violence Against Asian American Communities — Asian Americans Advancing Justice-Atlanta Vice Mayor Grant stated Lauderhill was a culturally diverse community with residents of many nationalities and cultures, and the recent attacks on Asian American persons caused many to seek to address racism again in the country. Lauderhill had an important and vibrant Asian community; along with residents of Asian descent, there were City employees in administration, the fire and police departments, and business owners who served the Lauderhill community for many years. She asked the Commission to support the subject resolution and send a message that Lauderhill stood against all forms of racism and discrimination, and specifically against recent attacks on Asian brothers and sisters in the U.S.; though it was a national issue, the Lauderhill community was directly affected. Mr. Sajan Kurian was present via Zoom; he was a community activist and stood against all forms of discrimination. Sajan Kurian, chair of the South Asian Caucus, thanked the City Commission for giving him the opportunity to speak, stating they were currently in a state of mourning for the death of six members of their Asian community who were brutally killed. He thanked Vice Mayor Grant for forwarding the subject resolution that denounced anti-Asian sentiments and all other acts of racism against all minority communities. Minority communities and he faced discrimination for a long time, and with the City of Lauderhill taking the first step, on behalf of the community and their organization, he wished to truly thank and express appreciation to the Commission for its support. He noted it was very important to have such conversations in communities, so people could coexist peacefully, and do the right thing. Girija Gothoskar, with the Lauderhill Police Department, thanked Vice Mayor Grant for bringing the subject issue forward; she appreciated the Commission taking up this cause, as the Asian community was peace-loving and hardworking, and they were proud to be a part of the melting pot; she had been a part of the Lauderhill family for 13 years. She denounced any acts of violence and/or racism against any members of any culture or community. City of Lauderhill Page 11 City Commission Meeting Meeting Minutes - Final March 29, 2021 Commissioner S. Martin echoed thanks to Vice Mayor Grant for bringing the subject resolution forward for Commission to approval, as it brought the matter to the forefront of the community; his fellow Commissioners and he stood in solidarity in this cause. Commissioner L. Martin concurred. Mayor Thurston opened the discussion to the public. Mr. Crum supported the subject resolution, as many times racism was not discussed as affecting anyone other than members of the black community, so it was significant that the subject issue was brought to the forefront. It was important for the Lauderhill community to support all its citizens, regardless of nationality, race, or culture. He wished to state the support of the St. George/Broward Estates homeowners’ association (HOA) and the residents they represented. Mayor Thurston received no further input from the public. A motion was made by Commissioner L. Martin, seconded by Commissioner M. Dunn, that this Resolution be approved. The motion carried by the following vote: Yes: 5- Commissioner M. Dunn, Vice Mayor D. Grant, Commissioner L. Martin, Commissioner S. Martin, and Mayor K. Thurston Abstain: 0 16A. RESOLUTION NO. 21R-03-68: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL ACCEPTING, APPROVING AND ADOPTING THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL’S COMPREHENSIVE ANNUAL FINANCIAL REPORT (CAFR) FOR FISCAL YEAR ENDING SEPTEMBER 30, 2020; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE (REQUESTED BY CITY MANAGER, DESORAE GILES-SMITH). Attachments: RES-21R-03-68-CAFR FY 2020.pdf AR 21R-03-68 CAFR 2020 Draft Commissioner S. Martin understood Mr. Hobbs’ comment that the numbers in the City’s FY 2020 audit would not change, but when the subject item was approved by the Commission, he wished to be able to give a clear explanation to constituents, and he still needed some clarification on the City’s Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR). He wished to table the item to the next Commission meeting to allow him time to get his questions answered. City Manager Giles-Smith explained her staff could meet with Commissioner S. Martin after the meeting to answer his questions, but if the subject item was not approved before March 31, 2021, the City could not submit it to the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA). Commissioner S. Martin restated his not being ready to approve the item until he had a clearer understanding of the CAFR. City of Lauderhill Page 12 City Commission Meeting Meeting Minutes - Final March 29, 2021 Mayor Thurston remarked, unfortunately, members of the Commission would not always agree on every item, and he understood Commissioner S. Martin’s concerns. He asked for a motion to table the item. Commissioner S. Martin made a motion to Table Resolution #21R 03 68, seconded by Vice Mayor Grant. The vote was as follows: Commissioner Dunn No Vice Mayor Grant Yes Commissioner L. Martin No Commissioner S. Martin Yes Mayor Thurston No Mayor Thurston noted the motion to table failed on a vote of two to three. A motion was made by Commissioner L. Martin, seconded by Mayor K. Thurston, that this Resolution be approved. The motion carried by the following vote: Yes: 3- Commissioner M. Dunn, Commissioner L. Martin, and Mayor K. Thurston No: 2- Vice Mayor D. Grant, and Commissioner S. Martin Abstain: 0 16B. RESOLUTION NO. 21R-03-71: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL CITY COMMISSION APPROVING RECIPROCAL USE AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE SCHOOL BOARD OF BROWARD COUNTY, FLORIDA AND THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL FOR THE USE OF EACH OTHER’S FACILITIES; PROVIDING FOR A FIVE-YEAR TERM COMMENCING JUNE 13, 2021; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE (REQUESTED BY CITY MANAGER, DESORAE GILES SMITH). Attachments: RES-21R-03-71-Agrmt-School Board Reciprocal Use Agrmt 2021.pdf AR 21R-03-71 Final Reciprocal Use Agreement- City of Lauderhill Revised Ex. A.pdf Reciprocal Use - Exhibit C Form.pdf This Resolution was approved on the Consent Agenda. (See Consideration of Consent Agenda for vote tally.) 16C. RESOLUTION NO. 21R-03-72: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL, FLORIDA, OPPOSING HOUSE BILL 1129 AND SENATE BILL 1678, INCREASING THE STATUTORY LIMITS ON LIABILITY FOR TORT CLAIMS AGAINST LOCAL GOVERNMENTS; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE (REQUESTED BY COMMISSIONER LAWRENCE “JABBOW” MARTIN). City of Lauderhill Page 13 City Commission Meeting Meeting Minutes - Final March 29, 2021 Attachments: RES-21R-03-72-Oppose Bills re higher statutory limits.pdf AR 21R-03-72 HB 1129.pdf SB 1678.pdf Commissioner L. Martin indicated this item was due to another alert from the Florida League of Cities, where in Tallahassee they sought to expand the liability exposure to local governments in the event they were faced with a lawsuit. Currently, there were caps on the amounts in lawsuits, but House Bill 1129 and Senate Bill 1678 sought to increase the exposure of cities to a degree it would be next to impossible to predict what such amounts could be. He said if these bills passed, subsequently, the amounts could roll onto homeowners for taxation purposes to ensure funds were available at the local level to settle lawsuits if they occurred. The intent of the resolution was to communicate the City’s wish that both bills be rejected. City Attorney Hall added, because Florida and other state governments throughout the country were deemed as sovereign, the sovereign could not be sued. However, the two subject bills would communicate to the public that they could sue the sovereign; that is, their local government. A motion was made by Commissioner L. Martin, seconded by Commissioner S. Martin, that this Resolution be approved. The motion carried by the following vote: Yes: 5- Commissioner M. Dunn, Vice Mayor D. Grant, Commissioner L. Martin, Commissioner S. Martin, and Mayor K. Thurston Abstain: 0 XII QUASI-JUDICIAL MATTERS (IF NOT ON CONSENT AGENDA) 17. RESOLUTION NO. 21R-03-70: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF LAUDERHILL, FLORIDA GRANTING THE SPECIAL EXCEPTION USE DEVELOPMENT ORDER TO UNIVERSITY PALMS, LLC., SUBJECT TO CONDITIONS, TO ALLOW IN THE GENERAL COMMERCIAL (CG) ZONING DISTRICT THE CONTINUATION OF AN AUTOMOTIVE, REPAIR AND SALES USE ON 1.30 ± ACRE SITE AS LEGALLY DESCRIBED HEREIN AND MORE COMMONLY KNOWN AS 4907 NORTH UNIVERSITY DRIVE, LAUDERHILL, FLORIDA; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. Attachments: RES-21R-03-70-Special X - Palms Unicersity Automotive.pdf AR 21R-03-70 University Palms, LLC Memo RES 13R-10-228 (21-SEU-001) Conditions Affidavit-Unsigned.pdf Application- Special Exception.pdf City of Lauderhill Page 14 City Commission Meeting Meeting Minutes - Final March 29, 2021 This Resolution was approved on the Consent Agenda. (See Consideration of Consent Agenda for vote tally.) XIII QUASI-JUDICIAL MATTERS, FIRST READING XIV QUASI-JUDICIAL MATTERS, SECOND READING XV UNFINISHED BUSINESS XVI OLD BUSINESS XVII NEW BUSINESS XVIII COMMUNICATIONS FROM PUBLIC OFFICIALS AT 9:00 PM, OR IMMEDIATELY BEFORE ADJOURNMENT, WHICHEVER SHALL FIRST OCCUR. IF AN ITEM OF LEGISLATION IS BEING DISCUSSED AT 9:00 PM, THE CHAIR MAY DELAY THESE COMMUNICATIONS UNTIL AFTER THE ITEM OF LEGISLATION HAS BEEN RESOLVED. City Attorney Hall requested an executive session to discuss a matter of pending litigation, so legal counsel could receive direction from the Commission on how to move forward in the case. Specifically, the case was Lewis Mohorn, Jr. vs. the City of Lauderhill, Lauderhill Police Department, Case No. 19-008808, Division 08. The executive session would take place on April 12, 2021, at 6:00 p.m. in the dual multipurpose rooms 134 and 135 to allow social distancing; in attendance would be all members of the Lauderhill City Commission, City Manager Giles-Smith, City Attorney Hall, and two outside special counsel members, Matthew Mandel and Justin Luger, along with a court reporter. He explained to the new members of the Commission this was one of the few occasions when the Commission could meet, as a group, outside the public forum, but it would be for the limited purpose to discuss pending litigation. The court reporter would transcribe the matter, and once the case was resolved, the transcript would become a public record. Commissioner Dunn mentioned placing on each member of the Commission’s desks the palm card for Return to Work Week; there were several thousand cards for distribution, so she invited her colleagues to give them to residents while they were out in the community, so they had a chance to get connected to livable wage jobs. Commissioner L. Martin remarked on speaking highly of the Florida League of Cities, as at a virtual State conference a week and a half ago he was made aware of the numerous pending actions taking place in Tallahassee, some passing unnoticed until their adverse effects were felt by local governments. By texting “home rule”, either as one word or two, to 50457, any member of the community would be kept notified of pending actions that might affect their quality of life. He next mentioned when there was a shooting in Lauderhill, members of the City Commission were notified via text, regardless of the time of the day it occurred, so he began noticing the number of shootings in the City. One of the issues City of Lauderhill Page 15 City Commission Meeting Meeting Minutes - Final March 29, 2021 discussed was neighbors helping neighbors, and for residents to become more involved in their HOAs; the residents of St. George/Broward Estates were making big strides in looking out for each other and doing positive things in their communities, and he wished to see all Lauderhill on that same level when it came to protecting each other. One of the initiatives he campaigned on was unifying the Lauderhill community, and bringing things to the level where everyone was comfortable with looking out for one another. Commissioner L. Martin noted, about 90 days into the current calendar year, there were 126 shootings to which the City’s police officers responded to; some people were apprehended, and some cases were closed, but the obstacle the police frequently faced was getting cooperation from the local community. As much as the City Commission and administration, and the local community strived to achieve a safer city, county, state and nation, it depended on local persons stepping up and taking the lead; for example, if someone knew a child had a gun, or if they saw a crime committed, they should notify the police, and though it was not always comfortable, the only way to achieve success was by doing it together. He invited Police Chief Stanley to speak briefly on how the public could give information on criminal activity they had knowledge of, while remaining safe and anonymous. Police Chief Stanley affirmed one of her officers’ biggest challenges was getting the local community to cooperate or provide vital information. Her department was looking at processes to help officers respond to calls faster, and she had Deputy Police Chief Siegel contact another agency about a product her department was thinking of getting, and that agency stated they were pleased with the results. It was not possible for police officers to be present everywhere, and they tried to get to all calls for service as quickly as possible, and speak to any witnesses willing to talk to them. However, many times people were afraid to come forward, fearing retaliation, etc., so the department used Crime Stoppers USA tip line for people to give information anonymously; it was open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and callers were anonymous and not required to give personal information, nor could their phone numbers be tracked. The number to call was 954-493-TIPS (8477). Chief Stanley said people could report information online, as all reports were read and sorted according to the police division, and her officers investigated all Crime Stoppers tips, regardless of the complaint and who the caller was, and whenever there was a reward for information, callers were notified accordingly. The Crime Stoppers tip line app could be downloaded, and callers would still remain anonymous. The Lauderhill Police Department had a nonemergency line that was manned 24 hours a day, seven days a week; that number was 954-497-4700; the City’s emergencies were dispatched by BSO, and the latter’s nonemergency number was 954-764-HELP (4357). 911 was the number to call for all emergencies. She noted the public could access the City’s website, click on departments, and then click on the link for police, and they would be taken to a page on which to enter information, and though some people listed their name and email address, those who wished to remain anonymous could write anonymous in the name box, and a box was provided in which information or concerns could be written. Communities were encouraged to start a neighborhood crime watch, as had the St. George/Broward Estates communities; they could call the police and report information, sometimes on behalf of residents afraid to come forward. She stressed whenever anyone making a report stated they preferred not to be identified, they were not, and if someone wanted to be contacted, her officers followed up and contacted them. She appreciated Commissioner L. Martin bringing City of Lauderhill Page 16 City Commission Meeting Meeting Minutes - Final March 29, 2021 the subject matter up, and if her department could get the community’s cooperation, it would help a great deal in solving crimes. Commissioner L. Martin commented the methods of reporting illegal activities applied to all crimes, not just shootings, all in an effort to making Lauderhill a safer city. He mentioned each year members of the City Commission received the Know Your Legislator book, so local elected officials knew who the State representatives were for their area and in other areas of the State. He asked City staff to acquire more books, so they could be provided to community HOAs, who should, in turn, share the information with residents, so whenever they were asked to write their house or senate representative(s) for a particular cause, the information on who they were was readily available. He remarked not everyone was computer savvy, and the book had all the contact information needed to contact State representatives, and anyone wishing to receive a book should contact his office at 954-730-3010. Vice Mayor Grant reminded everyone of the upcoming Unity in the Community Walk on Wednesday, March 31, 2021, starting at 5:30 p.m. in the West Ken Lark area; the meeting point was NW 33rd Avenue and NW 14th Street by the swale area. Anyone with questions and/or concerns should contact the City for more information. She mentioned the next Lauderhill Food Truck Roll at City Hall in support of small businesses on Thursday, April 1, 2021, from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.; the initiative was to help Lauderhill food trucks, of which only a few were registered, so anyone who was a Lauderhill food truck owner should call the City. Cultural diversity was key, so the hope was to get a variety of cuisines; at the upcoming event, there would be Cuban cuisine and American cuisine; the two prior food truck events were very successful. Vice Mayor Grant mentioned on Wednesday, March 24, 2021, the Sports Advancing Kids Education (S.A.K.E.) Awards were held virtually to honor student athletes, noting in 2020 the awards were canceled, as athletes were unable to compete. However, the City did not wish another year to pass without telling its young athletes they were appreciated, hoping to motivate and encourage them in their sporting endeavors, along with coaches and other volunteers in the Lauderhill youth sports programs. She commended the Parks & Recreation staff for all their work in coordinating the Awards, thanking Mayor Thurston for giving a wonderful speech, Commissioners L. Martin and S. Martin for attending, along with the support of City Manager Giles-Smith and her staff. The event was well received, and the City was given numerous accolades for hosting the event; many sports professionals came from Lauderhill, and a number of them spoke, including about the importance of the education component, which she thought was good for Lauderhill’s young athletes to see. A video from soccer club, Inter Miami, was played to inspire young Lauderhill players, and Usain Bolt sent a message to young track and field athletes, and Vice Mayor Grant noted she asked Mr. Bolt to mention Lauderhill and the S.A.K.E. Awards in his message. She mentioned rookie Miami Heat player Precious Achiuwa gave an amazing keynote speech, and the young attendees were able to see and hear from professional athletes to whom they could aspire to be like, and who spoke to them about success both on the field and in terms of education to better equip them to compete on a global scale. XIX ADJOURNMENT - 9:13 PM City of Lauderhill Page 17 City Commission Meeting Meeting Minutes - Final March 29, 2021 City of Lauderhill Page 18