Niema Gantt

The meeting of the Planning and Zoning Board included discussions and presentations regarding a proposed ordinance to consider a small-scale comprehensive plan amendment for a 7.58-acre parcel located at 1700 Service Road. The proposal involves changing the land use designation from low-moderate density residential to commercial. The discussion covered community feedback, site access, traffic studies, and mitigation of previous contamination. The staff presentation highlighted the need for retail centers for job creation and services, as well as the challenges related to storm water management due to site contamination.

The commission meeting included an invocation and pledge of allegiance, followed by awards, proclamations, and acknowledgements, including a presentation for Pre-Maturity Awareness Month, Florida License on Wheels, school uniforms, and the Opalaka Hurricanes Homecoming. The commission discussed the approval of the consent agenda, pulling and withdrawing several items. A citizen expressed concerns about a security ordinance and its potential impact on affordable housing, while another raised issues related to community development and legal matters. The commission discussed withdrawing an ordinance related to security and the need for a more robust policy for apartment units throughout the city.

The special commission meeting addressed an emergency ordinance regarding landlord permits. The discussion focused on amending the city's code to remove the requirement for apartment complexes with 150 units or more to have an on-site property manager and off-duty police officer. Concerns were raised about the specific sections being deleted and their potential impact on the safety and financial implications for residents and property owners. The city attorney clarified the intent of the amendment and its alignment with the commission's objectives.

The commission meeting included discussions on various topics, such as a resolution requiring the city attorney to submit required items for the fiscal year 2020 audit, and another resolution directing the interim city manager to refrain from acting as an attorney for the city and to provide necessary information for litigation defense. There was also discussion regarding waiving certain city fees for vendors of the Opa-locka flea market to assist with their relocation, which involved debate over legal sufficiency and potential implications.

The commission meeting included a presentation for the city manager's birthday. The agenda was addressed with some items being deferred or pulled for clarification. Discussions covered the creation of an Opa-locka Hope Fund to assist seniors, veterans, and residents in need with rent, mortgage, and utility payments, as well as establishing an owner-occupant minor home repair program.