The MRC’s 2015 Annual Report was distributed.

“Good afternoon Ladies and Gentlemen. Welcome to the January 4th, 2016 meeting of the Miami River Commission. This meeting is open to the public and was properly noticed. I understand that we have a quorum and we are in session.

The Miami River Commission was created by the State Legislature and is thus an official Government Sponsored Entity, tasked with the responsibility of oversight of all things on the Miami River and the Miami River Corridor or District as some may prefer. Per ordinances, we are required to issue advisory recommendations.

name is Horacio Stuart Aguirre and it is my privilege and pleasure to serve as Chairman. To my immediate right is Retired Vice Admiral Jay Carmichael, who serves as Vice Chairman. To his immediate right is Mr. Phil Everingham who serves as President of the Miami River Fund, Inc., the fiscal agent of the River Commission and is Chairman of the Economic Development Committee. To my immediate left is Mr. Brett Bibeau, the Managing Director of the Commission. Mr. James Murley, who serves as Chairman of the Urban Infill Committee, Dr. Ernest Martin, who serves as Chairman of the Greenways Committee and Mrs. Sallye Jude who serves as Chairwoman of the Stormwater Committee.

We also have several other important dignitaries with us today who we will recognize as we proceed along the agenda.

Please note that the business of this commission is conducted in accordance with requirements of the Sunshine Law. This entire meeting is being recorded and members of the press are present. To all who speak before the commission, you are reminded that there is an expectation of truthfulness and completeness with respect to comments and exhibits presented.
As we have a busy agenda today I will endeavor to keep the conversations moving along in the hope of adjourning at 1:20 PM. Please be mindful of this as we work through the agenda.

Commission members, you have received via email and printed before you, copied of the drafted minutes of the last meeting, December 7th, 2015, of the Commission. The chair will entertain a motion to accept as drafted or amend. The minutes were adopted.
Finally, The 20th ANNUAL RIVERDAY CELEBRATION will again take place at Lummus Park, 250 North River Drive on Saturday, April 2nd, from 1 - 6 PM. This event will be one to out-do all previous events on the river. Sponsorships for the event and for the 13th Annual River Map and Guide are still available. Sign up quickly before they are all taken. Please contact Mr. Brett Bibeau for available opportunities and the modest costs.

Vice Chairman Jay Carmichael - Miami River Voluntary Improvement Plan (VIP). The following is a sample of some of the items recently addressed in the Miami River Voluntary Improvement Plan (VIP):

The MRC continues to report numerous broken street lights along the on-road Miami River Greenway to FPL for repairs. Some of the broken street lights have had open repair tickets for a year now. The DDA is reporting that in October 2015 they reported an additional nearly 200 broken street lights to FPL located with the DDA boundary, and three months later the community is still waiting for the lights to be fixed. This is a public safety issue which must be resolved.

MRC continued to following up with FDOT on following needed items:
1) Adding more Lights on Flagler Bridge
2) Repairing broken Lights on 1 ST Bridge
4) Removing broken fence at 1 St Bridge
5) Repairing fence at Flagler Bridge
6) etc

MRC continues to advocate for the long awaited repairs of the pretty colored iconic lights beneath Metro-Rail Bridge over the Miami River, known as the “Miami Line”

MRC continues to communicate with Florida Fish and Wildlife in support of the City Commission’s recent resolution seeking more enforcement of the idle no wake speed zone along the Miami River which is important to protect Manatees and personal property including boats, docks, shorelines, etc.

MRC Chairman Aguirre recognized Spencer Crowley, Florida Inland Navigation District (FIND). Mr. Crowley distributed a Dec. 11, 2015 letter from FIND to the Florida Secretary of State requesting improved maintenance of Miami Circle Park and approval of the pending application to construct a public Riverwalk connector and public paid parking lot to the west beneath the Brickell Bridge. The MRC unanimously recommended the FL Department of State provide improved maintenance of Miami Circle Park, and the items previously distributed as recommended by Hummingbird Ramirez. Commissioner Carollo offered to sponsor a similar resolution to be approved by the City of Miami Commission, and County Commissioner Barreiro offered to do the same with the Board of County Commissioners.

II) Consideration of 250 Biscayne Blvd. Way and 300 Biscayne Blvd. (“Epic” Phase II) Application for a Temporary Public Riverwalk and 2nd “Final” Extension of Time for the Existing “Temporary Sales Center” Structure Which the City of Miami Previously Required to Be Demolished for Violating City Charter and Zoning Code Waterfront Development Setback Requirements

A October 13, 2009 City of Miami memorandum was distributed stating “Pursuant to Section 1706, Zoning Ordinance 11000, it is hereby directed that this memorandum modifies the development order for the Dupont (n/k/a Epic) Major Use Special Permit, by approving the final extension of time for the temporary Sale Center and /or construction office until January 2012. The temporary Sale center and / or construction office shall be demolished in accordance with final date of extension time.”

Lucia Dougherty, Greenberg Traurig and Barbara Pederzoli, Revuelta Architecture, presented the development teams plans to extent the “temporary sales center” in return for a temporary public Riverwalk. The depicted temporary public Riverwalk connects with existing public Riverwalks to the east at “One Miami” and to the west at “Epic”. The 1st year would be the wider depicted “Phase I” temp. public Riverwalk, and then the subsequent 2 years would be the depicted “Phase II” minimum 5’ wide temporary public Riverwalk. Then the “temporary sale center” would be demolished in December 2018 to be replaced with the final stages of construction of the development, including the final public Riverwalk.

MRC Director Bibeau asked if the Phase 2 temp Riverwalk’s minimum 5’ width maybe widened to 8’ which would be safer considering the river is on one side and a wall on the other, and the adopted professional Greenway plans and standards are a minimum 15 foot wide unobstructed “circulation zone” so that bikes, pedestrians, baby carriages, etc may have sufficient space to safely pass in opposite directions. The developer team replied due to the small site, the phase 2 temp. public Riverwalk min width must remain 5’ as presented.

The MRC unanimously recommended approval with the following amended conditions:

“TEMPORARY USE PERMIT CONDITIONS 300 BISCAYNE BLVD.

The Temporary Use Permit (“TUP”) for the Sales Center located at 300 Biscayne Blvd. (the „Property”) will be extended on the following conditions:
1. The Owner shall construct a public Raywalk that is substantially is accordance with the Phase 1 plans prepared by Revuelta Architecture dated December 23, 2015.
2. The Phase 1 plans shall be removed at upon the commencement of construction of a new residential tower (the “Project”)to be placed on the Property.
3. At the commencement of construction of the Project a new public Riverwalk will be constructed in substantial accordance with the Phase 2 plans prepared by Revuelta Architecture dated December 23, 2015
4. The Phase 1 and phase 2 public Riverwalks will be open to the public except in the instance when construction creates a hazard for the public. In those instances the Owner shall coordinate the closing with the City of Miami.
5. The Sales Center shall be demolished within 3 years from the approval of the TUP with no extensions.
6. The Riverwalk(s) will not be removed until the Sales Center is demolished.
7. Within 10 days from the issuance of the TUP the owner shall post a bond, letter of credit or cash escrow in the amount of $100,000 to insure the demolition of the sales center in accordance with the above conditions.
8. Make the Riverwalk ‘s connection to the east with One Miami straight
MRC Greenways subcommittee Chairman Martin thanked the developer team for agreeing to several of the subcommittee’s recommendations.
The City Charter and Zoning code section 3.11 both state reductions to the waterfront building setback may only be considered and granted by the City Commission, in return for public benefits such as the temporary public Riverwalk, etc. Ms. Dougherty stated the City administration indicated a different procedure, which is amending the previously approved MUSP via an administrative “Warrant”.

III. Informational Presentation regarding Miami-Dade County Public Schools New Marine Industrial Vocational School Program
The MRC’s Economic Development and Commerce’s Nov. 17, 2015 public meeting minutes were distributed. Miami-Dade County School Board member Lubby Navarro’s item was unanimously adopted, therefore they are working to create Marine Industrial Vocational classes.

Nathan Kurland, Chair of the Miami Bayside Foundation stated they have been working closely with the School Board in support of this item, whom has funded 2 instructors, and provided a space at Lindsey Hopkins School. Mr. David Schleiden, Miami Dade County Public Schools, distributed an October 23, 2015 letter outlining the program and associated start-up costs i.e. Diesel Engine, Inboard Engine, propellers, diagnostic equipment, etc.) totaling $335,905. Mr. Kurland stated the Bayside Foundation is donating $100,000 towards this list, and under the leadership and support of City of Miami Commissioner Frank Carollo raised the funding balance to purchase the items. Mr. Kurland stated they are also seeking a waterfront location to conduct some of the classes. Mr. Kurland stated they are communicating with several boatyards. Mr. Kurland stated the 1st 20 students in the program will be funded by Federal Pell Grants. The program will be up and running in August, and includes a test for the American Boat and Yacht Council Certificate. Miami-Dade School Board Member Lubby Navarro stated this is just the start and hopes to grow the program, possibly into a Magnet School, with the continued support of the Superintendent Carvallo. Ms Navarro noted there are similar Marine Industrial vocational programs in Texas, Broward, Tampa, Hillsborough, and New York. Ms Navarro noted the importance of the local Marine Industry to support the program through internships, etc. Ms Navarro noted several years ago she served as Commissioner Barreiro’s designee on the Miami River Commission, where she realized the importance of the Port of Miami River’s Marine Industrial Businesses which generates great jobs. The MRC thanked School Board Member Navarro, Mr Kurland and Mr Schleiden.

IV. Future MRC Agenda Item Regarding Proposed Soccer Stadium

Per the request of Miami River Commission (MRC) Board Member Ernie Martin, MRC Chairman Aguirre agreed to add this item on the MRC’s public meeting agenda. An aerial photo was distributed of the proposed professional Soccer Stadium site, where the SW corner is the closest point to the Miami River, 1 block from the 5 ST Bridge. The site is bound by NW 8 ST on the north, NW 6 Ave on the east, NW 6 ST on the south, and NW 7 Ave on the west. The 2 full city block site site includes 1 block of NW 7 ST between NW 7 Ave and NW 6 Ave, which would have to be closed. Approximately 70% of the site is privately owned vacant land, and 30% is a Miami-Dade County Water and Sewer Department Yard including equipment parking and a small office, which the Soccer Stadium owners would purchase at appraised market rate. The adopted Miami River Corridor Urban Infill Plan page 4 was distributed, featuring an aerial of the Miami River Corridor boundary which includes the proposed Soccer Stadium location.

Dr. Martin stated the proposed Soccer Stadium is located east of the designated Spring Garden Historic District, requires a land use and zoning amendment, and a waiver for parking because no parking is included. Dr. Martin stated the proposal includes waterborne transportation to docking at Lummus Park and the Culmer Metro-Rail Station. Dr Martin stated the proposed Soccer Stadium would impact the Miami River District and it’s abutting neighborhoods of Spring Garden, Overtown, and Little Havana, therefore the MRC should consider the Land Use Amendment, Zoning Amendment and parking reduction through its standard operating procedure of public meetings by the MRC subcommittee followed by the full MRC to vote on the MRC’s advisory recommendation. The MRC’s Urban Infill Subcommittee considers Land Use and Zoning amendments, and its Chairman Jim Murley works for Miami-Dade County, therefore recused himself from the item. The MRC agreed that MRC Chairman Aguirre will serve as the interim Urban Infill Subcommittee Chairman on this item, and provide his non-binding advisory recommendation to the full MRC. Commissioner Barreiro stated the proposal is yet to be vetted by the Board of County Commissioners, and he has some concerns regarding unanswered questions to date regarding parking, size and access.

IV. MRC Subcommittee Reports
A. Greenways Subcommittee - Chair Dr. Ernie Martin
I thank the City of Miami, Commissioner Gort and CITP Director Rodriguez for agreeing to submit federal TEP $1,000,000 grant application, matched by the City with $200,000, to continue the Miami River Greenway from I-836 proceeding west. In November MRC Director Bibeau conducted a site visit with the City staff authoring their grant application.

I thank Miami-Dade County which finished construction of the public riverwalk beneath Metro-Rail on both the North and South shores, which on both shores now connect with previously constructed sections of the public riverwalk. I thank Commissioner Barreiro for meeting with Director Bibeau regarding spending the remaining balance of the County’s “Miami River Greenway” line item in the GOB Bond Issue, and having the County apply for more matching FIND and TAP grants.

The MRC coordinated and funded a volunteer Miami River Greenway Beautification event on December 10 with a new group of volunteers from Touch Miami with Love whom picked up garbage and painted over graffiti along the public Miami River Greenway from Lummus Park to the Hump Back Bridge. The next MRC sponsored volunteer Miami River Greenway beautification events are scheduled on January 9 with 35 volunteers from Miami High School, and on Jan. 27 with a dozen volunteers from Marlins Ayudan.

The next Greenways and Urban Infill Subcommittee public meeting is January 21, here, at 3 PM.

The meeting adjourned.

I. Chair Report, Horacio Stuart Aguirre –

Commission members, you have received via email and printed before you, copied of the drafted minutes of the last meeting, January 4, 2016 of the Commission. The chair will entertain a motion to accept as drafted or amend. The minutes were adopted.

Valentine’s Day, February 14, is your deadline to sponsor the 20th annual free Miami Riverday to be held April 2, 2016, and the 13th Annual Miami River Map and Guide. Additional sponsors are still need for our goal to more than double the free boat tour capacity from 4 to 9 vessels.

Ms. Sandy O’Neil commended MRC Director Brett Bibeau’s excellent work creating the MRC’s 2015 Annual Report. Phil Everingham noted the MRC’s 2015 Annual Report generated an excellent article in the Miami Today.

Vice Chairman Jay Carmichael - Miami River Voluntary Improvement Plan (VIP).
The following is a sample of some of the items recently addressed in the Miami River Voluntary Improvement Plan (VIP):

A riverfront resident from Brickell on the River reported reoccurring contamination entering the Miami River from a storm water outfall at the City’s FT Dallas Park, 60-64 SE 4 ST. MRC forwarded the report to DERM, City and FDEP. A couple weeks later the resident reported the plume had returned, the MRC followed up with the environmental agencies, and the City replied they would send their contractor the following day.

In theory there are 2 types of beds to offer the homeless living on the public Riverwalk. The City of Miami’s Homeless Assistance Department, known as the “green shirts” should have “outreach beds” available to offer, but they haven’t had any outreach beds available since October 7, 2015. The Police Department should have “Pottinger Beds” available to offer in certain specific circumstances, but no “Pottinger Beds” have been available to offer for estimated 1 month.

With all the cost share partners from State, County, City and private sector the MRC’s contracted cleanup and landscape companies are 2 teams, each consisting of 2 workers, a truck and equipment 4 days per week, and team on the 5th day of the week, helping the property owners pickup garbage, landscaping and painting over graffiti along the public Miami River Greenway.

I) Consideration of “Naheem Kahn” Project, 1175 NW South River Drive
The MRC’s Urban Infill and Greenways subcommittee’s January 21, 2016 public meeting minutes state, “The Miami River Commission’s November 2, 2015 public meeting minutes were distributed stating, “The following documents were distributed prior to the meeting, presented and reviewed during the public meeting, regarding 1175 NW South River Drive:

• Board of County Commissioner’s Economic Prosperity Committee’s Agenda Item 2(B), a $1.5 million “Economic Development Fund” grant to fund a public Riverwalk and new seawall at the “Naeem Khan Project”.
• City of Miami’s adopted zoning code section 3.11 and Appendix B
• City of Miami’s adopted zoning code, “Article 4, Table 3, Building Function: Uses”
• Miami River Commission’s Greenways subcommittee’s 10/21/15 public meeting minutes
• 1st Draft Plans for Naeem Khan’s Proposed Development

Director Bibeau stated the distributed County Agenda item was approved at County subcommittee and will be considered by the full Board of County Commissioners on 11/3/15.

Mr. Naheem Khan, Ms. Rosario Kennedy and Mr. Alfonso Jurardo, Architectonica, distributed and presented the 2nd draft plans and narrative. The 2nd draft plans now feature a vessel along the river, and the public Riverwalk connects to the west with the existing public Riverwalk beneath and adjacent to 12 Ave Bridge, and to the east along the sideyard connecting with the existing on road Miami River Greenway on North River Drive at the south east corner of the site.

Mark Bailey, Miami River Marine Group, noted 1175 NW South River Drive, leased by the Board of County Commissioners to Naheem Kahn for his proposed project, is zoned the most restrictive “D3” and the currently designated Land Use is “Port of Miami River”. Therefore, Mr. Bailey questioned if the proposed project is consistent with the vacant site’s existing land use and zoning, or would it require a land use & zoning amendment, “warrant” or “exception”? Mr Kahn and Ms Kennedy stated the project will use a vessel to import and export containers carrying fabric, beads, etc, in addition to recreational yacht access, therefore is consistent with the existing land use and zoning. Manny Prieguez noted he has shipped containers of seafood from his Miami River Lobster and Stone Crab site on the Miami River. Bruno Barreiro noted this County owned site has been vacant for years, and was previously a County Carpentry shop. The MRC unanimously recommended the Board of County Commissioners approve the grant for the site’s public Riverwalk and new needed seawall, and asked for the specifics of the development proposal to be considered by the MRC’s Urban Infill and Greenways subcommittees in November, followed by the full MRC on December 7.”

“Ms Rosario Kennedy, Mr Alfonso Jurardo, Architectonica, and Ms Lucia Dougherty, Greenberg Traurig, distributed and presented the revised draft plans. The new plans increase the square footage by widening the west wall by 15’ on the site. Ms. Kennedy recommended relocating the City of Miami Fire Department’s storage of unused equipment adjacent to the site on South River Drive beneath the 12 Ave Bridge, which the City rents from FDOT.

MRC Director Bibeau distributed the City of Miami’s adopted zoning code, “Article 4, Table 3, Building Function: Uses”. Ms Dougherty noted the renditions still include a recreational yacht and an international shipping vessel transporting containers containing fabric, garments, and beads. Ms. Dougherty stated the plans will maintain the site’s current D3 zoning, Port of Miami River Land Use. Ms Dougherty stated the City of Miami’s Zoning Administrator classified this development on the table under “Industrial” as “Manufacturing and Processing” which requires a “Warrant” but requires less parking therefore the plans have sufficient parking spaces, or be classified as a “Marine Related Industrial Establishment” which would be “Allowed by Right”, but requires more parking spaces than the plans provide, therefore a reduction of required parking spaces would be required.

Mr Mark Bailey, Miami River Marine Group, asked if the development team had met with the U.S. Coast Guard regarding Homeland Security and NTSA requirements for this new proposed international shipping location, and DERM regarding obtaining the required marine operating permit, and the team replied not yet.

Ms Dougherty stated the developer is willing to design, permit, fund and construct the public Riverwalk connector on the west end to extend the additional estimated 35 feet on FDOT public ROW in order to connect with the existing public Riverwalk and sideyard connector at the 12 Ave Bridge. The site’s new public Riverwalk will feature a new seawall, maybe maintenance dredging along the shoreline, and a 6-foot wide dock. Chairman Aguirre noted the renditions for the dock need large bollards added, and the dock should be made of concrete to accommodate the depicted large shipping vessel.

MRC Urban Infill Subcommittee Chairman Murley and Greenways Subcommittee Martin suggested the MRC find the proposed development consistent with the Miami River Greenway Action Plan and the Miami River Corridor Urban Infill Plan subject to the following conditions:

1) Securing all vessel requirements established by U.S. Coast Guard, DERM, etc
2) Securing FDOT permission to construct the public Riverwalk connector to the west on FDOT ROW at the 12 Ave Bridge and removing the storage lot beneath the Bridge”

Ms Rosario Kennedy stated since the MRC’s Jan. 21 public subcommittee meeting (quoted above) the development team met with the United States Coast Guard and will be working with them on compliance. Ms Kennedy stated the City of Miami Fire Department is willing to remove the junk yard beneath the 12 Ave Bridge on the south shore. Mr Juardo noted the revised plans now include a loading area, and a public sideyard connector from the sidewalk on South River Drive to this site’s public Riverwalk which will connect with the existing Riverwalk and sideyard connector at FDOT”S 12 Ave Bridge, and the color of the on-road Greenway is the required mesa beige. The public Riverwalk is 25 feet wide. Ms Lucia Dougherty stated consultant Christy Brush believes the site will be permitted for 3 boat slips.

MRC Director Bibeau distributed the City of Miami’s adopted zoning code, “Article 4, Table 3, Building Function: Uses”. Ms Dougherty noted the renditions still include a recreational yacht and an international shipping vessel transporting containers containing fabric, garments, and beads. Ms. Dougherty stated the plans will maintain the site’s current D3 zoning, Port of Miami River Land Use. Ms Dougherty stated the City of Miami’s Zoning Administrator classified this development on the table under “Industrial” as “Manufacturing and Processing” which requires a “Warrant”.

MRC Chairman Aguirre stated this is a mixed-use compromise and improvement on the existing vacant conditions.

Ernie Martin made a motion for the full MRC to support the subcommittee’s findings:
“the MRC finds the proposed development consistent with the Miami River Greenway Action Plan and the Miami River Corridor Urban Infill Plan subject to the following conditions:

1) Securing all vessel requirements established by U.S. Coast Guard, DERM, etc
2) Securing FDOT permission to construct the public Riverwalk connector to the west on FDOT ROW at the 12 Ave Bridge and removing the storage lot beneath the Bridge

The motion was seconded by Manny Prieguez and unanimously adopted by the MRC.

III. Consideration of Climate Change and Sea Level Rise
Jim Murley, Miami-Dade County’s Chief Resilience Officer, distributed and presented the “Unified Sea Level Rise Projection, Southeast Florida Regional Compact Climate Change”. Mr Murley stated by March Miami-Dade County will generate a list of projects to address Climate Change and Sea Level Rise, including how to develop and fund the listed large infrastructure projects. Mr Murley indicated Miami-Dade County is working with the insurance industry to inform them these issues are not being ignored, rather directly addressed. Mr Murley stated another related concern is drinking water from the Biscayne Aquifer is getting salt water intrusion due to sea level rise. Mr Murleity of Miami’s Sea Level Rise Committee, which hosts public meetings. Mr Murley noted County Clerk Harvey Ruvin is a long standing leader on this important issue, whom is proposing a Congressional funding source to address Sea Level Rise from the Federal Water Resources Development Act (WRDA).

Tiffany G. Troxler, Ph.D., Director, Sea Level Solutions Center, Florida International University (FIU) presented an informative PowerPoint presentation regary stated he serves on the Cding the impacts of sea level rise, combined with storm surge, along the Miami River which has low elevation areas. Dr Troxler noted the need to create a Miami River District Resiliency Plan with solutions for concerning continuing sea level rise, which when combined with storm surge is causing problems sooner than later. Dr Troxler stated tidal flooding will increase over time. Dr Troxler indicated dykes and levy will not work in South Florida because the limerock is porous (like swiss cheese). Dr Troxler estimates by 2045 over 200 surface levels will be flooded.

Dr Ernie Martin stated Miami needs to recognize and mitigate this reality. Sandy O’Neil stated sea level rise should be considered in all future developments, and she supports the County’s efforts to generate a list of infrastructure projects and secure funding to construct them. Jay Carmichael stated the MRC’s Urban Infill and Greenways subcommittee’s should continue working on this important issue.

IV. MRC Subcommittee Reports
Greenways Subcommittee - Chair Dr. Ernie Martin
I thank the City of Miami, Commissioner Gort and CITP Director Rodriguez for agreeing to submit a federal TEP $1,000,000 grant application, matched by the City with $250,000, to continue the Miami River Greenway from I-836 proceeding west.

The MRC coordinated and funded a Miami River Greenway Beautification event at the Miami Circle with volunteers from the Miami Marlins Ayudan, Hummingbird and Gean Tinnie at the Miami Circle on January 27, picked up litter, dog feces, painted over graffiti and spread 100 bags of recycled mulch in the planter beds. Recent focus on Miami Circle Park has generated several articles in Miami Today and the Miami Herald.

On January 9 the MRC coordinated and funded 35 volunteers from Miami High School and Hands on Miami whom planted and pulled weeds in the community vegetable and fruit garden and removed garbage along the public Riverwalk here at Robert King High, 1407 NW 7 ST. Chairman Martin thanked MRC Director Bibeau for his continued leadership of the frequent volunteer Miami River cleanup events.

Chairman Martin thanked Patty Harris for providing and planting new plants in Spring Garden.
The next Greenways and Urban Infill Subcommittee public meeting is February 24, 1407 NW 7 ST, 2 PM.

Economic Development and Commerce, Chair Phil Everingham
The MRC’s Economic Development and Commerce subcommittee’s January 19 public meeting minutes have been distributed. We had a positive meeting with Nick Cardoza, VanDutch Yachts, which is opening the VanDutch Lounge this month at the new Miami River Yacht Club, and is seeking additional locations on the Miami River for a VanDutch Yachts Sales Center and a separate location on the Miami River to build VanDutch Yachts, which are currently manufactured in Wisconsin. Of course MRC attendees, including but not limited to Frank Balzebre representing Miami-Dade County, offered their assistance and noted the Beacon Council is able to assist with existing incentive programs.

The meeting adjourned.

I. Chair Report – MRC Chairman Horacio Stuart Aguirre:

The MRC unanimously adopted the MRC’s February 2 public meeting minutes, which were distributed a week prior to the meeting, and additional copies were distributed at the meeting.

MRC Chairman Aguirre provided the exciting front page Miami Herald Article, “On the Mend – Filled with toxic dioxins and fecal matter, Wagner Creek and the Seybold Canal cut through Miami’s Industrial and hospital district. After more than a decade, the waterway is now in line for a major scrubbing.”

Everyone is invited and your attendance is required at the 19th Annual Miami Riverday which will be held April 11, 1-6 PM, Lummus Park, 250 NW North River Drive, featuring free Miami River Boat Tours, live music, food, drinks, environmental education, historic re-enactors, children activities and much more.

The 12th Annual Miami River Map and Guide will be released at Miami Riverday. This serves as the last call for additional new advertisements, so if you are interested please contact Director Bibeau by the end of this week.

MRC Chairman Aguirre noted The MRC’s enabling legislation indicates the Chair of the Florida Legislature’s Dade Delegation is a member of the MRC, and that is now Senator Anitere Flores whom nominated State Rep. David Richardson, whom is a supporter of the Wagner Creek & Seybold Canal Maintenance Dredging and Environmental Cleanup Project and the MRC, to serve as her designee.

MRC member Sara Babun emailed MRC Director Bibeau appointing Mark Bailey, Executive Director of the Miami River Marine Group, to serve as her MRC “designee”. On behalf of the MRC, Chairman Aguirre welcomed Ms Babun’s appointed MRC designee, Mr. Bailey.
Due to the timing of the Easter Weekend and Miami Riverday in April, the next full MRC board member will be held here on May 4 at noon.

Miami River Voluntary Improvement Plan (VIP) Update, Vice-Chairman Jay Carmichael:
The following is a sample of some of the Miami River Voluntary Improvement Plan (VIP) items addressed in January and February:

The MRC reported a leaking exposed pipe improperly hovering over the Miami River Rapids tributary. I thank the Miami-Dade Water and Sewer Department for removing the pipe.
I thank “Hummingbird”, a Native American whom conducts a ceremony at the Miami Circle Park every Tuesday at 6 PM, for contacting the MRC to report that all lights in the Department of State owned and maintained Miami Circle Park, a designated National Historic Landmark, are not working. The MRC notified the Department of State, and is waiting to receive the requested estimate of when the lights will be repaired.
I thank a resident in Neo Lofts whom reported oil sheen in the Miami River to the MRC. The MRC immediately dispatched the Scavenger Water Decontamination Vessel which arrived at the scene within a couple hours and provided services under the MRC’s current contract using State funding.

In addition, the helpful Neo Lofts resident reported new graffiti on the 1 ST and Flagler ST Bridges, and in less than 24 hours MRC Director Bibeau and MRC volunteer intern Brendon Cunningham had painted over all the reported graffiti.

I thank Florida Fish and Wildlife, which addressed a derelict vessel reported by Director Bibeau that was illegally docked in the Seybold Canal with ropes tied up to trees in Point Park.

II) Consideration of the State of Florida’s “Enterprise Zone” Economic Incentive Program Set to Expire Unless Extended by the Florida Legislature in the Upcoming 2015 Legislative Session

The Miami River Commission’s (MRC) Economic Development and Commerce Subcommittee’s February 10, 2015 public meeting minutes were distributed, which state in part:
“Attendees discussed the State of Florida’s “Enterprise Zone” Economic Incentive Program set to expire unless extended by the Florida Legislature in the upcoming 2015 Legislative Session. MRC Director Bibeau distributed a report, “Improving the Value of Florida’s Enterprise Zone Program for Taxpayers, February 2015” by Florida Taxwatch which was favorable to the Enterprise Zone program. The Enterprise Zone provides sales tax and impact fee rebates and other incentives for new and expanding businesses within the designated Enterprise zone which produce jobs. MRC Director Bibeau noted when he started with the MRC in 2000, the Enterprise Zone was located sporadically along the Miami River. The MRC researched U.S. Census data for the remaining portions of the Miami River, and found they met the legal requirements to be designated an Enterprise Zone as well. When the MRC brought this to the attention of Governor Bush and the Florida Legislature, they expanded the designated Enterprise Zone (est. 2003) to include the entire Miami River.
Mark Bailey, Miami River Marine Group, stated he supported the extension of the Enterprise Zone, which includes eligibility for new and expanding marine industrial businesses generating jobs along the Port of Miami River.

Coralee Penabad, River Landing, stated their proposed major mixed-use project which includes a significant retail and residential mixed-use development featuring a public riverwalk and park, supports the extension of the Enterprise Zone which includes eligibility for their new retail businesses, which will generate 980 jobs.

MRC Greenways Chairman Martin noted his experience with the program when working as a Director of Community Development for Miami-Dade County, and stated his support for the extension.

The MRC EDC subcommittee suggested the full MRC recommend the FL Legislature extend and not sunset the existing Enterprise Zone economic incentive program along the Miami River.”

The referenced “Improving the Value of Florida’s Enterprise Zone Program for Taxpayers, February 2015” report by Florida Taxwatch was distributed a week prior to the public MRC meeting, and copies were made available at the meeting as well.

The MRC adopted a unanimous resolution recommending the FL Legislature extend and not sunset the existing Enterprise Zone economic incentive program along the Miami River.

III) Reaffirming the State of Florida and Miami-Dade County’s Idle No Wake Speed Zone on the Miami River within the City of Miami’s Code

MRC Chairman Aguirre stated the City Commission recently added an idle no wake speed zone in the Marine Stadium basin, and in doing so had discussed the Miami River’s idle no wake speed zone as currently established in State and County codes. Chairman Aguirre suggested the City of Miami insert the Miami River’s idle no wake speed zone into City code, which may assist in its needed enforcement by City of Miami Police Department’s Marine Patrol. The MRC adopted a unanimous resolution recommending the City of Miami reaffirm the State of Florida and Miami-Dade County’s adopted Idle / No Wake Speed Zone along the Miami River within the City of Miami’s Code.

IV) Consideration of Waterborne Transportation along the Miami River

The MRC Urban Infill and Greenways subcommittee’s February 11, 2015 public meeting minutes were distributed one week prior to the meeting, and additional copies were made available at the meeting, stating in part:

“MRC Urban Infill Chairman Murley noted the recent Miami Today article, “City charts a waterways course to sink gridlock” which reported a recent City of Miami Commission resolution. Attendees noted the MRC has recommended waterborne transportation since adoption of the Miami River Greenway Action Plan (“Blueway”) in 2001, the Miami River Corridor Urban Infill Plan in 2003, and the Miami River Corridor Multi-Modal Transportation Plan in 2007 (MPO and MRC). In addition, the concept was studied in the MPO’s previous plans, MPO’s Service Plan Development for Waterborne Transportation Service in Miami-Dade County and the MPO’s Utilization of Miami-Dade County Waterways for Urban Commuting Travel. The related excerpts of the aforementioned plans were distributed, in addition to, “Palm Beach County Water Taxi Docks, July 2012”. Furthermore the concept is supported in the Miami Downtown Transportation Master Plan, DDA Master Plan, and the City of Miami Comp Plan.

Per the request of MRC Urban Infill Chairman Murley, Director Bibeau distributed copies of a map and the following corresponding list:

Miami Dade County Owned Public Riverwalk Sites Where Permission Should be Granted for Private Sector Waterborne Transportation Providers to Drop off and Pick-up Passengers

1) WASD Pump Station #1, between Lummus Park and 3 River Restaurants
2) Beneath 2 Ave Bridge North Shore
3) Beneath 2 Ave Bridge South Shore
4) Metro-Rail North Shore
5) Metro-Rail South Shore
6) “Riverwalk” Metro Mover Station
7) “5 ST” Metro Mover Station

MRC Urban Infill Chairman Murley and MRC Greenways Chairman Martin suggested the full MRC formally recommend Miami-Dade County allow ADA accessible, USCG certified, insured, etc. private sector waterborne transportation businesses to pick-up and drop-off passengers at the County owned riverfront sites.”

The MRC adopted a unanimous resolution recommending Miami-Dade County allow ADA accessible, USCG certified, insured, etc. private sector waterborne transportation businesses to pick-up and drop-off passengers at the following County owned riverfront sites, all of which are located east of the NW 5 ST Bridge:

1) WASD Pump Station #1 (located between Lummus Park and 3 River Restaurants)
2) Beneath 2 Ave Bridge North Shore
3) Beneath 2 Ave Bridge South Shore
4) Metro-Rail North Shore
5) Metro-Rail South Shore
6) “Riverwalk” Metro Mover Station
7) “5 ST” Metro Mover Station

V) Consideration of Board of County Commissioner’s Economic Prosperity Committee’s 2/12/15 agenda item 2(B), “to prepare a finding of necessity study for Orange Sports Complex Community Redevelopment Area” which includes the Miami River’s south shore from Flagler Bridge to NW 22 Ave Bridge - The Board of County Commissioner’s Economic Prosperity Committee’s 2/12/15 agenda item 2(B), “to prepare a finding of necessity study for Orange Sports Complex Community Redevelopment Area” which includes the Miami River’s south shore from Flagler Bridge to NW 22 Ave Bridge, was distributed one week prior to the meeting, and additional copies were made available at the meeting, along with the MRC Urban Infill Subcommittee’s February 11, 2015 public meeting minutes which state in part:

“MRC Urban Infill Chairman Murley and MRC Greenways Chairman Martin noted the MRC’s adopted strategic Plan, the award winning the Miami River Corridor Urban Infill Plan, was created specifically consistent with State Statute 163 so it may become a redevelopment plan required when creating a new CRA, which the plan recommends for the Miami River District. MRC Urban Infill Chairman Murley and MRC Greenways Chairman Martin suggested the full MRC formally recommend Miami-Dade County adopt the subject item to prepare a finding of necessity study with one condition, allowing Miami River improvements, including but not limited to the public riverwalk, to be funded by the proposed new CRA which would include a substantial portion of the Miami River’s south shore.”

The MRC passed a unanimous resolution recommending Miami-Dade County adopt the subject County item to prepare a finding of necessity study for their proposed “Orange Sports Complex Community Redevelopment Area” with one condition, allowing Miami River improvements, including but not limited to the public riverwalk, to be funded by the proposed new CRA, which would include a substantial portion of the Miami River’s south shore.

VI) Consideration of “SeaVault”, 1583 NW 24 Avenue (MRC previously approved “Miami Mega-Yacht Club”
Updated proposed plans, the MRC Urban Infill and Greenways February 11, 2015 public meeting minutes, and the MRC’s March 3 2014 public meeting minutes were distributed one week prior to the meeting, and additional copies were distributed at the meeting, stating in part:

“MRC Director Bibeau referenced an email he received from Scott Bakos, Bermello Ajamil & Partners representing Tony Rodriguez and Homero Meruelo on the SeaVault project located at 1583 NW 24th Avenue (formerly approved by the MRC on 3/3/14 as “Miami Mega Yacht Club”) stating in part, ‘making a presentation to you / the board to present the progress of this project. By separate email, I will send you the latest drawings and renderings.

Overall, the SeaVault project (programmatically and the overall site plan layout) is the same as you last saw. We have a total of (14) fourteen private covered slips that range in length from 150 feet to 230 feet long. Each private slip / berth has a “Captain and Crew Quarters” which is a (3) three level ancillary support building directly adjacent (at the end) of each berth / slip. The project still has a small cold storage building, club-house, pool and tennis court for the crew. All of this remains the same from what Tony presented to you previously. What has changed is the look; the Architecture is modern. The main building that houses the (14) fourteen slips is broken into (3) three parts or sections, each section has a sweeping curve roof that will be a combination of solid and Kalwall to allow natural light into all slips so that work on the vessels while berthed can be done without the need for artificial light, which also provides for a dramatic night-time appearance. The Captain and Crew Quarters step back at each level and inherently scaled down the main building facing 15th street. This stepping provides a transition and favorable compatibility to the surrounding neighborhood.’

Director Bibeau added the applicant told him in consultation with the City of Miami there is a covenant / restriction that the referenced “Each private slip / berth has a “Captain and Crew Quarters” which is a (3) three level ancillary support building directly adjacent (at the end) of each berth / slip.” must be owned and occupied by the owners, and they will not be allowed to sell or rent the “Captain and Crew Quarters” to parties not directly connected to the respective mega yacht slip.

MRC Urban Infill Chairman Murley and MRC Greenways Chairman Martin suggested the full MRC continue to support the MRC’s following 3/2/14 resolution, “The Miami River Commission unanimously found the “Miami Mega-Yacht Club” proposal consistent with the adopted Miami River Corridor Urban Infill Plan, and therefore support it receiving all needed permits and approvals as required by various codes in order to come to fruition.”

Scott Bakos, Bermello Ajamil & Partners and Mr. Tony Rodriguez presented the subject updated and distributed plans. The MRC adopted a unanimous resolution reaffirming the MRC’s previously adopted March 2, 2014 resolution, “The Miami River Commission unanimously found the “Miami Mega-Yacht Club”, renamed “SeaVault” proposal consistent with the adopted Miami River Corridor Urban Infill Plan, and therefore support it receiving all needed permits and approvals as required by various codes in order to come to fruition.

VII) Greenways Subcommittee - The Annual FDOT Transportation Enhancement Program grant cycle provides Cities and Counties with $1 million federal grant awards to construct public Greenways, and has an open application cycle with applications due in April 2015. Every year the City of Miami submits average 6 applications to this program, and they have not submitted any Miami River Greenway applications for years. Therefore as stated in the MRC Greenways subcommittee’s previously distributed February 11 public meeting minutes, the MRC continues to recommend the City of Miami submit 2 grant applications to this $2 million federal greenway grant opportunity to fund on-road greenways along City owned north and south river drives from NW 17 Ave to NW 22 Ave, for example South River Drive in front of Sewell Park has no sidewalk at all.

MRC Director Bibeau thanked City of Miami which recently broke ground on another section of the on-road Miami River Greenway along North River Drive, from Seasalt and Pepper restaurant, renamed Seaspice, to the NW 5 ST Bridge.

MRC Director Bibeau stated the MRC coordinated and funded 2 volunteer Miami River Greenway Beautification events In February 2015. The MRC thanks all the great volunteers from Hands on Miami whom on Valentine’s Day, February 14, removed litter along the unimproved shoreline here at the County’s public Riverwalk in Robert King High, and worked in the community vegetable and fruit garden, and the incredible volunteers from Marlins Ayudan, Ritz Carlton and the Marriott, whom on February 20 restored 2 riverfront pocket parks where NW 1 ST and NW 2 ST’s dead end into South River Drive, planted 115 plants, spread 3 pallets of sod, 200 bags of recycled mulch and painted additional murals beneath the Flagler and 1 ST Bridges along a 4-block stretch of the public on-road Miami River Greenway in Little Havana. The next MRC coordinated and funded volunteer Miami River Greenway beautification events is FPL volunteer’s this Saturday, March 7, at the public riverwalk behind FPL’s station on the River’s north shore from 2 Ave Bridge to the Metro-Rail Bridge, and additional work along the public riverwalk all the way to the NW 1 St Bridge, including painting beneath the 2 Ave and 1 ST Bridges, picking up litter, spreading recycled mulch, etc.

VIII) Stormwater Subcommittee - MRC Stormwater Subcommittee Chair Sallye Jude reported that after several months of encouragement from the MRC, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection and the City of Miami agreed to create a Miami River Walk the WBID plan, to seek and eliminate sources of contamination, similar to the completed Wagner Creek and Seybold Canal Walk the WBID. The planning process will start during the Stormwater subcommittee’s March 4 public meeting, and remain on all future agendas as a reoccurring item through the creation of this plan, and its subsequent implementation.

IX) Economic Development and Commerce - The MRC Economic Development and Commerce (EDC) subcommittee’s February 10 public meeting minutes were distributed.
The meeting adjourned.

I. Chair Report – MRC Chairman Horacio Stuart Aguirre:

The MRC unanimously adopted the distributed draft MRC’s March 7, 2016 public meeting minutes.

The 20th annual free Miami Riverday held April 2 was a success. This year we more than doubled our free Miami River boat tours from 4 vessels providing 4 trips each, to 10 vessels which provided 35 free Miami River boat tours, 45 minutes long each, to over 1,870 passengers. In addition Miami Riverday provided live music, environmental education, historic re-enactors, paddleboard and kayak races, children activities, food drinks and more. During the festival Congresswoman Ros-Lehtinen, Mayor Regalado, and Commissioner Gort presented plaques of appreciation to the sponsors on stage. At this time we would like to present the remaining plaques of appreciation to the Riverday sponsors whom were unable to attend to personally accept during the festival. Chairman Aguirre and the MRC praised Director Bibeau for coordinating another successful Miami Riverday.

The MRC thanks all the advertisers in the sold out 13th Annual Miami River Map and Guide, which was released at Miami Riverday. I encourage everyone to take as many maps as possible and help in its wide spread distribution. Chairman Aguirre and the MRC praised Director Bibeau for producing another sold out Miami River Map and Guide.
Per the MRC’s enabling legislation, the Chair of the Dade Delegation in the Florida Legislature automatically serves as a volunteer Miami River Commission board member. Therefore when the MRC’s long standing champion Representative Jose Felix Diaz was elected Chair of the Dade Delegation, he became the MRC’s newest member, and we welcome him on the MRC. Representative Diaz stated Representative Richardson remains the designee of the Chair of the Dade Delegation.

In 2014 and 2015 the Florida Legislature appropriated $150,000 for the MRC, including funding for the clean-up crews, Scavenger Water decontamination vessel, supplies for volunteer Miami River clean up events such as plants, trees, paint, etc., which was not vetoed by the Governor. This year the FL Legislature not only thankfully included the MRC’s $150,000 line item in the approved State Budget but also made it automatically reoccurring in future budgets. While the Legislature was still in session, immediately after approving the budget, the MRC sent Governor Scott support letters for the approved MRC line item from Congresswoman Ros-Lehtinen, Mayor Regalado, Commissioner Barreiro, FIND, Swire Properties, Antillean Marine, Miami River Marine Group, DDA, Garcia’s, etc. Prior to the Legislature formally delivering their approved State Budget to the Governor to consider vetoes, the Governor had a Press Release indicating the line items he planned on vetoing, which surprisingly included the MRC’s $150,000. The MRC asked numerous supporters in the public and private sectors to contact the Governor and ask him not to veto the MRC’s line item, and we appreciate all the MRC’s supporters which quickly reached out to the Governor. A couple days later when the Governor formally received the budget he finalized his veto list, with no changes to the veto list in the press release, therefore the MRC’s $150,000 was vetoed. Next month the MRC will present plaques of appreciation to the members of the legislature which championed their approval of the MRC’s annually reoccurring $150,000, including Rep. Jose Felix Diaz, Senators Margolis, Braynon and Negron and Representatives Albritton and Richardson and Speaker Crisafulli. Rep. Jose Felix Diaz stated the Governor’s veto had nothing to do with the MRC, and they would try to secure the finding again next legislative session. Rep. Diaz added the Governor did not veto the Legislature’s $250,000 cost share for the Wagner Creek and Seybold Canal maintenance dredging and environmental cleanup project, and the MRC thanked the Legislature and Governor for that important line item.

MRC Chairman Aguirre stated the MRC has already sent letters, had conversations and scheduled meetings with the SFWMD, FIND, Miami-Dade County, City of Miami, and the private sector to in an effort to fill the $150,000 funding gap in order to continue providing the current needed levels of services.

MRC Chairman Aguirre noted per the MRC’s previously distributed calendar of 2016 meetings, the next meeting is May 9, noon, 1407 NW 7 ST.

Jay Carmichael, Miami River Voluntary Improvement Plan (VIP)

The following is a sample of some of the items recently addressed in the Miami River Voluntary Improvement Plan (VIP):

The MRC and River residents are continuing to encourage FPL to complete their long promised needed repairs to their section of the public Riverwalk on the north shore from 2 Ave Bridge to Metro-Rail Bridge. FPL indicated they have put the bollard light repairs out to bid.

Many years ago the MRC recommended when the Tamiami Swing Bridge is replaced, the current structure be relocated to Fern Isle Park to serve as a pedestrian and bicycle bridge connecting Fern Isle Park over the South Fork Tributary to the new extended park area on the north shore. Good things come to those who wait, and the Tamiami Swing Bridge has arrived on the north shore of the South Fork Tributary, where it is being prepared for installation. Therefore the MRC’s cleanup crew continues to work with the City Parks Department, Homeless Assistance Department, Marine Patrol and Florida Fish and Wildlife to provide more needed deferred maintenance of the shoreline at Fern Isle Park, including removal of a derelict vessel and more removal of massive invasive species and weeds, & garbage. One homeless camp accepted a shelter bed, and the remaining homeless camp is being addressed as we speak.

Mr. Carmichael stated River residents and businesses have been emailing the MRC recommending increased marine patrol needed to enforce the idle no wake speed zone.

I) Consideration of Development Plans for 300 Biscayne Blvd Way
Iris Escarra, Greenberg Traurig, Barbara Pederzoli, Revuelta Architecture, and Matthew Lewis, LAND, presented plans for a new riverfront development located at 300 Biscayne Blvd Way, on the North Shore of the Miami River between Epic and One Miami (east of Brickell Bridge). Ms. Escarra stated the proposal is within the City Commission’s previously approved Major Use Special Permit (MUSP) for this “Epic” site which included 2 buildings, of which one has been constructed to date. The current proposal includes 384 residential units (previous approval included 596 units), 561 parking spots (previous approval had 596 parking spots), and 69 stories. The top 9 stories would be purchased via the “Public Benefits” program for estimated $1,989,000 (13,000 square feet per floor x 9 floors = 117,000 square feet x $17 = $1,989,000). A small 1,000 square foot café is on the 1st floor. The site’s waterfront setback and public Riverwalk are 24 feet wide, which is 2 feet wider than previously approved at 22’ feet wide. Due to the narrow site, a 50-foot waterfront building setback is not required; rather the code requires 25% of the property width which is being provided. In order to become consistent with minimum code requirements and the MRC subcommittee Chair’s recommendation, the updated 2nd draft plans widened the public Riverwalk’s unobstructed pathway or “circulation zone” from 12’ wide to 15’ minimum width. In addition to the public Riverwalk, the presented plans include a publicly accessible dock seamlessly connecting to the connecting / adjacent public Riverwalk. This Miami Riverfront 1 acre of essentially vacant land was recently purchased for $125 million, which is reportedly the most expensive acre ever sold in the State of Florida. Ms. Escarra and Ms. Perdezoli stated the previously approved temporary public Riverwalk will be constructed and open to the public soon, as previously presented to the MRC. The estimated timeline is 30 days for permit, 4-6 weeks to construct the temporary public Riverwalk which would be open for 1-2 years until the temporary public Riverwalk is replaced with this site’s final public Riverwalk being presented today.

The Miami River Commission unanimously found the plans for 300 Biscayne Blvd Way to be consistent with the Miami River Greenway Action Plan and the Miami River Corridor Urban Infill Plan, therefore recommended approval subject to the following remaining conditions:

1) Improve the public Riverwalk connections to the east at One Miami’s public riverwalk, to the west at Epic Phase I’s public Riverwalk, and to the public sidewalks on Biscayne Blvd Way. Maintain a functional public open plaza and gateway signage at the wide eastern entrance for the public to access the Riverwalk from Biscayne Blvd Way, which currently connects to the public Riverwalk to the east at One Miami and then turns north connecting to the Baywalk, and the future public Riverwalk to the west at the proposed development. Include Miami River Greenway wayfinding signage (as required by code).

2) To the extend the “public benefits” bonus height is triggered, utilize the estimated $2 million “public benefits” payment to fund needed public benefit projects located within the impacted Miami River District, including but not limited to smart signage to assist during Brickell Bridge openings, which advise vehicles of pending openings and indicate best alternate routes depending on the direction of the vessel, construction of unfunded sections of the public Riverwalk, etc.

3) Construct the temporary Riverwalk which will be open to the public until the permanent public Riverwalk is in place

Iris Escarra accepted the conditions on behalf of the development team.

II. MRC Subcommittee Reports
A. Greenways Subcommittee - Chair Dr. Ernie Martin
The MRC coordinated and funded a Miami River Greenway Beautification event with 80 volunteers on March 12, starting in Lummus Park and worked in both directions along the public Miami River Greenway. Volunteers planted 150 plants, spread 150 bags of recycled mulch, and picked up litter.

Dr Martin commended Director Bibeau for updated aerials of the Miami River Greenway showing the various completed, under construction and sections scheduled to break ground in the near future.

The next Greenways and Urban Infill Subcommittee public meeting is April 22, here, at 4 PM.

B. Stormwater Subcommittee, Chair Sallye Jude
The Stormwater subcommittee’s March 2 public meeting minutes were distributed. The environmental agencies are working on remediating the sources of contamination discovered in the recent Miami River Walk the WBID 2 day boat and walking inspection tour of the entire Miami River.

The City of Miami’s RFP to for the Wagner Creek and Seybold Canal Maintenance Dredging and Environmental Cleanup Project resulted in 2 bids which are under review. The City Commission will contract the winning bidder in July, and the project will commence this year.

C. Economic Development and Commerce, Chair Phil Everingham
The MRC’s Economic Development and Commerce subcommittee’s March 9 public meeting minutes were distributed, featuring an interesting presentation regarding proposed new Palm Oil shipping and packaging in the upper river.

IV. New Business

David Restainer, Douglas Elliman, commended the MRC and Director Bibeau for excellent long term successful work improving the Miami River District. Mr. Restainer invited the public to the Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce which is selling $35 tickets for an exciting educational Miami River boat tour on May 12 aboard the luxurious Biscayne Lady Yacht, followed by a reception at the One Brickell Sales Center, which will be catered by Capital Grille. Guest Speakers will be historian Dr Paul George and MRC Director Brett Bibeau.

The meeting adjourned.

I. Chair Report – MRC Chairman Horacio Stuart Aguirre:
The MRC unanimously adopted their previously distributed draft April 18, 2016 public meeting minutes.

As promised for anyone whom was unable to attend personally there was a rotating PowerPoint of pictures from the successful free 20th annual Miami Riverday held April 2. The MRC commended Managing Director Brett Bibeau.

The MRC presented plaques of appreciation to the Florida Legislature for including a $150,000 line item in their adopted FY ’17 State budget.

Chairman of the Dade Delegation Jose Felix Diaz has been a long term supporter of the MRC. Before being elected, as a part of the excellent “Leadership Miami” program, Representative Diaz brought his entire class on an educational Miami River Boat Tour narrated by MRC Director Bibeau. Ever since then Representative Diaz has had a deep understanding of the Miami River District, and has been a true champion for the MRC’s efforts to secure State funding the last 3 years. Thank you Chairman Diaz.

Another long term friend and supporter of the Miami River is State Senator Gwen Margolis. Before going on to Tallahassee for a long and prestigious tour of service, Senator Margolis served with outstanding distinction as Chairwoman of the County Board of Commissioners. Senator Margolis was instrumental to secure funding for the Miami River Maintenance Dredging and Environmental Cleanup Project for five years, from 2004-2008, and funding for the Miami River Commission’s Operating Budget for the last 3 years. Thank you Senator Margolis.

Senator Oscar Braynon was successful in having this funding approved in his Committee, where his leadership is instrumental. Upon being elected for the first time, Senator Braynon wasted no time in reaching out to the Miami River Commission, asking that we meet with him and offering us his support for improving the Miami River and the Miami River District. The entire Miami River District sincerely appreciates Senator Braynon’s many years of strong support for the Miami River Commission.

In addition, the MRC thanked the Florida Legislature for supporting the Wagner Creek and Seybold Canal Maintenance Dredging and Environmental Cleanup Project via a $250,000 appropriation to the City of Miami, which was not vetoed by the Governor.

The Miami River Commission also thanked Speaker Crisafulli, Representative Ben Albritton, Senator Joe Negron, and Representative David Richardson whom were unable to attend today, so Chairman Diaz kindly offered to accept on their behalf and personally deliver their plaques of appreciation.

Again, thank you all for your leadership and efforts to include annual reoccurring $150,000 for the MRC’s continued programs, which unfortunately was vetoed by the Governor. We appreciate your continued support as we try again together next legislative session.

I’m pleased to help extend an exciting invitation. Everyone is invited to the Lummus Park Riverwalk groundbreaking on May 11 at 2 PM. This event will be hosted by Mayor Tomas Regalado and Commission Chairman Keon Hardemon. This new section of the public Riverwalk features a public dock for temporary dockage, water taxi stop, decorative lighting, etc. The MRC thanks the City of Miami and the Florida Inland Navigation District.

The City of Miami, with another matching FIND grant, issued a Notice to Proceed to their elected contractor to improve the Curtis Park boat ramp. The MRC thanked the City of Miami and FIND.

Last Wednesday night MRC Director Bibeau and I presented the MRC’s recommendation for approval of an application to increase the zoning and land use at 2501-2507 NW 16 ST RD, subject to 5 conditions. The City of Miami’s Planning Zoning and Appeals Board had interesting questions regarding several of the MRC’s 5 conditions.

Regarding the MRC’s condition #1, “Full compliance with public Riverwalk, waterfront building setbacks, etc. required in City of Miami’s Zoning Code Section 3.11 and Appendix B.”, the fact that the immediately connecting public Riverwalk sections were previously granted waivers and exceptions by the City of Miami, such as width reductions, was problematic to the MRC’s consistent goal and condition of supporting compliance with providing the minimum public Riverwalk dimensions required by the City of Miami’s Zoning Code Miami 21, and the City Charter.

Regarding the MRC’s condition #3, “Provide new seawall, and consider sea level rise in determining the best elevation”, perhaps the MRC should respectfully suggest the City of Miami consider requiring all future major Miami River developments to have a licensed marine contractor inspect the site’s seawall to make a determination of what improvements, if any, are needed for the riverfront site to sustain construction of the proposed major development. Commissioner Barreiro added seawalls should have cleats for boat dockage.

Miami River Voluntary Improvement Plan (VIP) - MRC Vice Chairman Jay Carmichael provided the following updated regarding the Miami River Voluntary Improvement Plan (VIP):

Previously reported efforts continue to improve the public Riverwalk in partnership with property owners at the FPL station, Fern Isle Park, Fort Dallas Park, and the entire Miami River Greenway.

Mr. Carmichael thanked the Nature Conservancy and Miami-Dade County for starting efforts to make “green infrastructure” along Wagner Creek.

II) Consideration of Resources Needed for City of Miami Police Department to Assist Homeless
Dominica and Anthony Golston, homeowners, residents and tax payers at Neo Lofts, 10 SW South River Drive noted the continued significant homelessness within the Miami River District. The Golston’s stated the City of Miami Police Department controls 2 “Pottinger Beds” at the Chapman House every day which is woefully insufficient therefore the beds are usually full and unavailable. The Golston’s noted the suspended Mat program was helpful in providing needed assistance to the homeless, and recommended the City of Miami fund 20 cots for the City of Miami Police Department to control in their efforts to assist the homeless. City of Miami Police Department Executive Assistant James Bernat and agreed that the City of Miami renewing funding for the Pottinger beds plus additional funding for the City of Miami Police Department to control 20 cots with services at an established homeless facility is needed and would be helpful for the City of Miami’s efforts to assist the homeless. The MRC passed a unanimous resolution recommending the City of Miami renew this year’s funding for “Pottinger Beds” and appropriate additional funding for 20 cots and support services, which the City of Miami Police Department would control and use to provide homeless assistance.

II) Consideration of Revised Development Plans for 55 South Miami Ave Road, “The Edge”
The MRC Urban Infill and Greenways April 22, 2016 public meeting minutes and revised plans were distributed prior to the meeting. The public subcommittee meeting minutes state in part:

“Mr. Fernandez and attendees noted the following changes from the last development plan for this site (plan 2 of 3) and the current plans for this .34 acre site (plan 3 of 3):

•Previously 130 residential units now 200 hotel rooms plus 70 residential units
•Increased height from previously approved 606 feet to 627 feet
•Increased parking spaces from previous 156 to current 182 parking spaces
•Increased Parking pedestal height (from previous 126 feet to 130 feet tall)
•Increased Floor Area from 363,676 sq. ft. to 363,868 sq. ft.
•Increased building length from 180 feet to 213 feet
•Decreased open space from 6,592 to 5,193
•Restaurant space previously on 1st floor connecting with public Riverwalk replaced with loading docks (restaurant space relocated to the top floor)

The current development proposal (plan version 3 of 3) includes 10 requested waivers of the code, including but not limited to:

• Waiver of City Charter and Zoning Code to reduce waterfront “view corridor” and publicly accessible side yard connectors from code required 69’ to 20’
• Waiver of City Charter and Zoning Code to reduce waterfront setback and public Riverwalk from 13 feet 6.4 inches to 13 feet 1.8 inches
• Waiver to reduce parking spaces by 30%
• Waiver to reduce street setback (along on-road Miami River Greenway) from 10’ required to zero (0’)
• Waiver to allow zero (0’) setback at the frontage above the 8th floor
• Waiver to allow increase in building length from 180’ to 215’

The existing on-road Miami River Greenway, constructed with federal grant funding on City owned South Miami Ave Road directly in front of the private development site, currently features a 13’ wide Greenway featuring 5 foot wide landscaping, benches, decorative trash cans, way-finding signage, decorative lighting, etc., plus an additional 8 foot wide unobstructed sidewalk. The current development plans propose to replace this existing on-road Miami River Greenway with 4 private parallel parking spaces on City owned land, which reduces the sidewalk width to 3’11”. The development team indicated they were unwilling to leave the existing 13’ wide section of the public on-road Greenway on City owned riverfront land, and maintained their request to replace it with 4 private parallel parking spots (reducing the sidewalk width to 3’11”).

William Fitch, President of the Brickell on the River Homeowners Association, stated residents often use the existing on-road Miami River Greenway to walk to a nearby day care near Metro-Rail, therefore recommended not reducing its current width.

After reviewing the public Riverwalk plans, the development team offered to submit revised plans prior to the full NRC meeting with the following improvements:

• Correcting “13 foot wide” waterfront setback and Riverwalk to intended 13’and 1.8 inches (requiring reduction to requirements of City Charter and Zoning code)
• Widening the public Riverwalk’s unobstructed “circulation zone” from current 5’ width
• Removing the single proposed new vehicular parking spot close to Miami Ave Bridge
• Include code required public Riverwalk signage
• Widen the on-road Miami River Greenway (current 3’11”)

MRC Urban Infill Chairman Murley and Greenways Chairman Martin suggested the MRC recommend approval of development on this site with the following conditions:

1. Widen public Riverwalk to 13’ 6.4”, and widen its unobstructed circulation zone (to 7’ – 9’6”)
2. Widen 2 public side-yard connectors
3. Include public Riverwalk signage
4. Consistency with the City Charter and Miami Zoning Code (“Miami 21”)
5. Remove the single proposed new vehicular parking spot close to Miami Ave Bridge
6. Widen on-road Miami River Greenway, remove proposed creation of private parallel parking on Miami River Greenway located on City owned South Miami Ave Road
7. A $713,756 dollar federal grant was used by the City of Miami to construct a section of the on-road Miami River Greenway on City owned land, including the area in front of the subject private development site. If the private site’s development results in alterations, removal or replacement of these recently constructed improvements, the City should remain compliant with their Federal grant contract (i.e. assess additional impact fee from the developer to relocate the same linear feet of on-road Miami River Greenway to another needed location along the Miami River Greenway).”

Ben Fernandez presented the updated plans with the following improvements:

1. The City of Miami previously determined this site to be 54’ wide, therefore the 25% of the width required by the code and charter was 13’ and 6.4”. The City of Miami has amended these calculations and now determines the property width to be 52’ wide, therefore the currently proposed 13’ and 1.8” waterfront building setback and public Riverwalk are consistent with code and charter. The unobstructed public Riverwalk width was widened from 5’ to 7’.
2. 2 public side yard connectors now 7’ wide
3. Removed the single new vehicular parking spot close to Miami Ave Bridge
4. Reduced the area of the proposed removal of the Federal funded on-road Miami River Greenway on City owned S. Miami Ave Road to create space for 3 parallel parking spaces, which will be further reduced to 2 parallel public parking spaces. (Eliminates existing landscaping, benches, decorative trash cans, wayfinding signage, etc.)
5. The private dock width reduced to 3.5 feet

William Fitch, President of the Brickell on the River Homeowners Association, stated several hundred residents per day use the existing on-road Miami River Greenway to walk to a nearby day care near Metro-Rail, therefore recommended not reducing its current 13’ width, landscaping, etc.

Mr. Fitch stated he hoped for a good honest Traffic Study, and noted the area’s current traffic. The development team stated they would have their Traffic Study updated to reflect the proposed new use and density of 200 hotel rooms and 70 residential units.

MRC Greenways Subcommittee Chairman Martin made a motion for the MRC to recommend approval of a development on this site with the following conditions:

1. Widen public Riverwalk to 13’ 6.4”, and widen its unobstructed circulation zone (to 7’ – 9’6”)
2. Widen 2 public side-yard connectors
3. Include public Riverwalk signage
4. Consistency with the City Charter and Miami Zoning Code (“Miami 21”)
5. Widen on-road Miami River Greenway, remove proposed creation of parallel parking on Miami River Greenway located on City owned South Miami Ave Road
6. A $713,756 dollar federal grant was used by the City of Miami to construct a section of the on-road Miami River Greenway on City owned land, including the area in front of the subject private development site. If the private site’s development results in alterations, removal or replacement of these recently constructed improvements, the City should remain compliant with their Federal grant contract (i.e. assess additional impact fee from the developer to relocate the same linear feet of on-road Miami River Greenway to another needed location along the Miami River Greenway estimated $200,000).”
7. Utilize the potential $2.25 million to acquire 132,426 of additional proposed building height to fund “public benefit” improvements within the impacted Miami River District.
The Miami River Commission adopted the recommendation 7-4.

IV. MRC Subcommittee Reports
A. Greenways Subcommittee - Chair Dr. Ernie Martin
The MRC is partnering with Hands on Miami and Viacom to bring 100 volunteers here on May 20. The volunteers will be working along the Miami River Greenway from 1407 NW 7 ST to 5th Street Bridge planting 150 plants, spreading 150 bags of recycled mulch, picking up litter, painting a mural, tending the community vegetable and fruit garden, interacting with the elderly affordable housing residents by enhancing the lunch, exercising, playing dominoes and providing free manicures.

The next Greenways and Urban Infill Subcommittee public meeting is May 19, 3 PM, 1407 NW 7 ST.

The meeting adjourned.

I. Chair Report – MRC Chairman Horacio Stuart Aguirre provided the following report:

I. Chair Report – MRC Chairman Horacio Stuart Aguirre
The MRC unanimously adopted their previously distributed draft May 9, 2016 public meeting minutes. Please note 2 recent positive articles in the press:

• The New York Post article titled “Forget South Beach – this is Miami’s coolest ‘hood’” the Miami River District.
• Miami Today recognized MRC Director Brett Bibeau with a Best of Miami award
  

As promised for anyone whom was unable to attend personally there is a rotating PowerPoint of pictures from the 20th Annual Miami Riverday held April 2nd, which was another river commission outstanding success.

One of the most difficult balancing acts on the historic mixed use Miami River is the openings and closings of the Brickell Bridge for vessels along Port Miami River’s federal navigable channel. The MRC continues to advocate for our list of action items designed to alleviate vehicular congestion.

Friendly reminder similar to the City and County the MRC does not have public meetings in August, therefore our next meeting will be September 12, here at noon.
MRC Chairman Aguirre asked Patty Harris, Jay Carmichael and Bruce Brown to review the MRC’s By-Laws.

Jay Carmichael, Miami River Voluntary Improvement Plan (VIP)
The following is a sample of some of the items recently addressed in the Miami River Voluntary Improvement Plan (VIP):

We thank FPL for making some of the promised improvements to their section of the public riverwalk, and recommend they complete the project.

We thank the City of Miami for partnering with 35 MRC volunteers to finish the cleanup and removal of massive invasive plant species along Fern Isle Park’s shoreline, in preparation for the relocation of the historic Tamiami Swing Bridge. The homeless camp issue is ongoing, and the City of Miami continues to work on it today.

We thank a River resident for emailing the MRC pictures of a plume of contamination entering the Miami River from a storm water outfall in Fort Dallas Park. The City and County are searching for the source of this contamination.

We thank Miami-Dade County for commencing repairs of the iconic colored lights along the Metro-Rail Bridge, and recommend they complete the remaining phases of the project.

We thank One River Point for funding 2 cleanup / landscape shifts per week along the public Riverwalk.

We thank City of Miami Marine Patrol SGT Lai for commencing a 1 month pilot program focused on writing tickets for speeding boats violating the Miami River’s idle / no wake speed zone. Mr. Carmichael noted considering the vast area of Biscayne Bay and the Miami River which the City of Miami Marine Patrol covers, it has limited resources.

II) Review of 40 SW North River Drive, “Sushi Samba / Duck and Waffle House” As Built Conditions and MRC Approved Plans

The MRC Urban Infill and Greenways subcommittee’s June 22, 2016 public meeting minutes were distributed stating in part:

“Brett Bibeau, Managing Director of the Miami River Commission, provided the following documents:

MRC’s 11/3/14 public meeting minutes featuring plans for this site state in part, “features the public Riverwalk consistent with Miami 21 Section 3.11, Appendix B, and the City Charter”

• Development Plans presented and approved at the MRC’s 11/3/14 public meeting featuring a 14-foot wide public Riverwalk, including an 8’4” wide unobstructed circulation zone, 1-foot wide transition zone, 1’8” wide passive zone, and a 3’ wide safety zone, continuous across the entire site
• Revised Development Plans provided by developer team at a site visit on March 15, depicting a public Riverwalk inconsistent with Miami 21 Section 3.11, Appendix B and the City Charter, as the width was reduced from 14’ required to 12’ wide total, while reducing the unobstructed circulation zone from 8’4” wide to 4’6” (ADA requires 5’ minimum) - 5’10”. In addition the revised narrower public Riverwalk, which is no longer consistent with Miami 21 Section 3.11, Appendix B and the City Charter, is now no longer continuous across the entire site, and the public side-yard connectors (from sidewalk to public Riverwalk on both sides) were reduced in width as well.
• Picture of on-site conditions taken during the March 15 site visit, depicting the as built conditions which are not consistent with Miami 21 Section 3.11, Appendix B and the City Charter
• 5/27/15 email from project architect Arturo Griego to Bibeau stating, “we have made it pretty clear that the walkway is unobstructed
• 3/9/16 email from project architect Arturo Griego stating in part, “it should not be different than you last saw”
• 3/31/16 email from Bibeau to Griego, “PLS reply the updated plans”
• 3/31/16 email reply from Griego to Bibeau, “working on it now”
• 4/18/16 email from Bibeau to Collin Worth, City of Miami Bike / Ped Coordinator noting the issue at hand
• 6/10/16 email from Bibeau to Griego stating:
“Per our conversation 6/22, 3 PM, 1407 NW 7 ST, smaller multi-purpose room
PLS bring 10 copies of original plans presented to MRC and 10 copies of current plans. PLS email new plans and old plans by 6/21
THX and have a nice day
Sincerely,
Brett”

Mr. Bibeau stated during the site visit the construction foreman indicated part of the problems with the narrowed Riverwalk width were created by a late change in the site’s elevations, which upset the architects whom were unaware of this unfortunate change which negatively impacted the planned width of the public Riverwalk.

Mr. Bibeau stated over the past few months he reported this issue on the record at the City of Miami’s Waterfront Advisory Board twice, and notified 2 staffers in the City of Miami Planning Department, and a staffer in the Building Department.
Mr. Bibeau stated the development team didn’t accept the invitation to participate in this public meeting, and they didn’t email the MRC’s repeatedly requested updated development plans and City Building Permit. The City of Miami indicated that this site is being constructed under a “phased permit”, where the developer assumed liability for constructing ahead of final building permits, and is therefore responsible to correct anything constructed which upon inspection by City is deemed inconsistent with Miami 21 Zoning Code or the City Charter.

MRC Urban Infill Subcommittee Chairman Murley and Greenways Subcommittee Chairman Martin suggested the MRC reaffirm the 11/3/14 recommendation for approval of the project which featured a public Riverwalk consistent with Miami 21 Section 3.11, Appendix B, and the City Charter. Chairmen Murley and Martin suggested MRC Chairman Aguirre and Director Bibeau continue communications with the City of Miami and Development team leading up to this time sensitive item being considered by the full MRC on July 11, noon, 1407 NW 7 ST.”

The MRC passed a unanimous resolution reaffirming their 11/3/14 recommendation for approval of the Sushi Samba / Duck and Waffle House Restaurant development which featured a public Riverwalk consistent with Miami 21 Section 3.11, Appendix B, and the City Charter. The MRC directed MRC Chairman Aguirre and Director Bibeau to continue communications with the City of Miami and Development team.

III) Consideration of Proposed Miami Circle Phase II Improvements

The MRC Urban Infill and Greenways subcommittee’s June 22, 2016 public meeting minutes were distributed stating in part:

“Kerri Post, Deputy Secretary of State, and Dr. Timothy Parsons, Department of State (DOS), presented a “Miami Circle Update” PowerPoint. Ms. Post thanked MRC Director Bibeau for his positive assistance in addressing numerous issues at Miami Circle Park such as removal of homeless camps, significant illegal parking, park maintenance and landscaping, etc. Mr. Bibeau thanked Ms. Post and Dr. Parsons for their support in moving the Miami Circle Park forward in a positive direction.
Ms. Post presented the site’s “Phase I” improvements including replanting the existing planter beds along the public Riverwalk, installing bolder benches, boulders to block illegal parking, and dog waste stations. Phase I is under contract and estimated for completion before the end of the State’s fiscal year on June 30, 2016.

Ms. Post presented the 1st draft Phase II improvements to Miami Circle Park which includes a life size 3D model / replica of the actual Miami Circle, additional historic signage, installing three additional seating areas, and filling the majority of the currently open greenspace with 3 foot tall “ground cover” native plants. Ms. Post stated the current 1st draft Phase II plan has not been finalized. The PowerPoint included a couple “Current Conditions” pictures taken in March or April showing dirt on much of the planned grass area. Director Bibeau provided more recent
“Current Conditions” pictures of the site taken this month which show the grass areas have recovered and the formerly barren areas of dirt are now green grass (irrigation system was previously turned off, and was turned back on a few months ago). Mr. Bibeau asked Ms. Post to please replace the “Current Conditions” pictures in the presentation with the provided more current pictures, prior to the July 11 presentation to the MRC, noon, 1407 NW 7 ST.

Ms. Post noted the site has issues with violations of laws regarding dogs, for example some owners are allowing there dogs off leashes and not throwing away dog waste. Director Bibeau thanked City of Miami Police SGT Valdes and his officers whom recently completed training on the current dog laws and will start enforcing them at Miami Circle Park. Director Bibeau noted the City of Miami’s standard Park Laws do not allow dogs, and several years ago DOS and History Miami posted signs indicating no dogs allowed in Miami Circle Park. Since then DOS decided to again allow dogs in Miami Circle Park (featuring a dog water fountain), which is a designated National Historic Landmark.

Greg Bush, Urban Environment League (UEL), served on the DOS Miami Circle Planning Committee and played a significant role in preserving the site. Mr. Bush sent an email stating, “I think more attention should be paid to showcasing the real Miami Circle site – finding the technology to display it while keeping it safe from the elements…I also dislike covering over much of the grass with low shrubs. The public needs more positive waterfront space for picnics and such activities.”

Mr. Parsons stated DOS has analyzed ways to display the real Miami Circle and provide needed protection from the elements, and determined it is not possible to display the actual Miami Circle while providing sufficient protection from the elements. Therefore DOS is proposing the life size 3D replica / model on the exact location of the Miami Circle, which will remain covered by dirt for protection.

Dr. Martin noted the small site’s current design was created after over a decade of public meetings, Planning Committees, charrettes etc. After Miami Circle Park was completed and opened to the public, it was awarded a National Historic Landmark designation. Based on extensive public input, the site includes 3 small open greenspace / grass areas which allow for multiple public recreational uses. Miami has the least square footage of open public greenspace of any large City in the U.S., and the immediate area is densely populated with an additional adjacent over 1,600 approved residential units starting construction soon.

MRC Greenways Subcommittee Chairman Martin and Urban Infill Subcommittee Chairman Murley recommended approval of the Miami Circle Park Phase I and Phase II improvements with one condition, preserving the originally planned and existing open green space / grass areas.”

Ms. Post presented an updated PowerPoint, including a couple more recent “Current Conditions” pictures of the site taken this month which show the grass areas have recovered and the formerly barren areas of dirt are now green grass (irrigation system was previously turned off, and was turned back on a few months ago).

Ms. Post thanked MRC Director Bibeau for his positive assistance in addressing numerous issues at Miami Circle Park such as removal of homeless camps, significant illegal parking, park maintenance and landscaping, etc. Mr. Bibeau thanked Ms. Post and Dr. Parsons for their support in moving the Miami Circle Park forward in a positive direction.

Ms. Post stated the presented 1st draft Miami Circle Phase II improvement plans are not finalized, and they are scheduled to present to the City of Miami’s Historic and Environmental Preservation Board on September 6.

Ms. Harris stated she preferred the Miami Circle Park National Historic Landmark site adopt the City Parks law regarding no dogs allowed in Parks.
Under a separate project between the Miami Parking Authority (MPA) and Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), all agencies have executed permission to allow Bob Carr to start archeological explorations beneath the Brickell Bridge’s south shore, in preparation for the MPA’s fully funded and designed public Riverwalk connector and public paid parking. Now FDOT has to provide Mr. Carr with access (key to gate) in order to explore the subject area.

The MRC passed a resolution (8-2) recommending approval of the Miami Circle Park Phase I and Phase II improvements subject to the following 2 conditions:
1) preserving the originally planned and existing open green space / grass areas
2) State provide funding to implement and maintain DOS proposed improvements

IV. MRC Subcommittee Reports
A. Greenways Subcommittee - Chair Dr. Ernie Martin
The MRC partnered with Hands on Miami and Viacom to bring 100 volunteers here on May 20. The volunteers worked along the public Miami River Greenway from here to 5th Street Bridge and planted 150 plants, spread 150 bags of recycled mulch, picked up litter, painted a mural of a flamingo, tended the community vegetable and fruit garden, interacted with the elderly affordable housing residents by enhancing the lunch, playing dominoes, and providing free manicures.

On June 25 the MRC hosted volunteers in Sewell Park in partnership with Maria, ECOMB, and the Gay Alliance.

On July 12 the MRC is hosting 35 volunteers in partnership with the from the Miami Dolphins and the City of Miami to remove garbage and invasive species along the shoreline in Fern Isle Park, in preparation for the ribbon cutting ceremony for the relocated Tamiami Swing Bridge.

In September the MRC will be hosting 2 Saturday volunteer Miami River cleanup events on the 10th and 17th.

B. Stormwater Subcommittee - Chair Sallye Jude

The Stormwater subcommittee’s June meeting minutes were distributed.
The City administration understandably deferred their agenda item to select the Wagner Creek and Seybold Canal maintenance dredging and environmental cleanup project’s contractor from July to September or October.

Agencies continue implementation of the Miami River Walk the WBID.

C. Economic Development and Commerce Subcommittee – Chair Philip Everingham

The next public MRC Economic Development and Commerce Subcommittee meeting will be held after the August public meeting break, on September 9, here at 10 AM.
The meeting adjourned.

 

I. Chair Report – MRC Chairman Horacio Stuart Aguirre

The Miami River Commission’s distributed draft September 12 2016 public meeting minutes were unanimously adopted.

On behalf of the MRC, thank you to Miami-Dade County for increasing the MRC’s funding in their recently approved FY’17 budget from $35,000 per year to $60,000 per year.
In addition the MRC thanks the City of Miami for increasing its funding in their recently approved FY ’17 budget from $30,000 to $50,000 per year.

Mr. Miguel Soloman recommended the City of Miami provide impact fee funding from Miami River District developments be provided to the MRC for continued Miami River improvement initiatives.

Chairman Aguirre thanked Mayor Regalado for including positive comments about the public Riverwalk in his Recent Newsletter.

Chairman Aguirre welcomed Kimberly Bentley, representing City Commissioner Ken Russell, and I cordially invite her to say a few words. MS Bentley stated Commissioner Russell, the City of Miami and the DDA continue to strongly support the public Miami River Greenway.

As you recall, last month the MRC thanked former MRC Vice Chairman Jay Carmichael whom retired from Gunster Yoakley and resigned from the MRC. Consistent with previous MRC process to elect a Vice-Chair, we will accept nominations for the MRC’s Vice Chairman. If there is one nomination no election is necessary, and multiple nominations would require a written / anonymous election. MS O’Neil nominated Representative Jose Diaz, Chair of the Dade Delegation, to serve as the MRC’s Vice-Chairman. Mr. Winston seconded the nomination. No additional nominations were made therefore Rep. Diaz was unanimously selected to serve as the MRC’s Vice-Chairman.

The MRC thanked Sandy Batchelor for her many years of tremendous volunteer service on the MRC. MS Batchelor had a perfect attendance record, strongly supported efforts to improve the natural environment and mixed used Miami River District, and was instrumental in securing South Florida Water Management District Funding.

MRC Chairman Aguirre stated on Oct. 4 he is flying to Tallahassee to meet with Governor Scott in support of the Miami River Commission’s successful efforts to improve the Miami River District.

Miami River Voluntary Improvement Plan (VIP)
The following is a sample of some of the items recently addressed in the Miami River Voluntary Improvement Plan (VIP):

The MRC thanks the 100 volunteers whom UM whom last Saturday, October 1, planted 200 plants, spread 165 bags of recycled mulch, painted under the 1 ST and Flagler Bridges, and removed litter along 3 blocks of the public Miami River Greenway’s south shore in Little Havana from Jose Marti Park to NW 1 ST.

The MRC’s next volunteer Miami River Greenway event is November 12, here from 9-11 AM, tending to the community vegetable and fruit garden and picking up garbage along the public Riverwalk.

The MRC forwarded riverfront business Seaspice’s email reporting clogged storm drains and missing drain covers along the on-road Miami River Greenway to the City, and we thank the Public Works Department for providing vacuum truck service.

II) Consider Proposed EAR Based Amendments to the Comp Plan
The City of Miami’s draft EAR based amendments to the City of Miami’s adopted Comprehensive Master Plan were distributed a week prior to the meeting. Consistently throughout the Comp Plan the word “shall” is being replaced with “will” which is the main amendment to the Port Miami River sub-element. MRC Urban Infill Subcommittee Chairman Murley suggested the MRC recommend approval of the City of Miami’s proposed EAR Based amendments to the Comp Plan. Ernie Martin suggested the MRC defer the item so it may be considered by Miami Neighbors United (MNU) first. The MRC deferred the item to the November public meeting.

III. Consider Proposed Amendments to the Zoning Code Regarding Crew Quarters in D1 and D3 Zoning
The MRC’s Urban Infill subcommittee’s September 14, 2016 public meeting minutes were distributed stating:

“Prior to the meeting Joseph Eisenberg, City of Miami Planning Department, provided the distributed draft amendment to the City of Miami’s Miami 21 Zoning Code, inserting a definition for Crew Quarters which would be allowed by Warrant (subject to appeal) in D1, D2 and D3 Zoning. Mr. Eisenberg had told Director Bibeau that residential and hotels are still not allowed, and “crew quarters” would be something less than a hotel room or residential unit. Mr. Eisenberg had indicated the definition has been temporarily in effect for last 2 years by administrative action which is expiring, and the City of Miami Planning Department is now proposing this amendment to the Zoning Code to make it permanent. Mr. Eisenberg had informed Mr. Bibeau that over the past 2 years no applications for Crew quarters have been submitted to the City of Miami for consideration, and none are currently pending. Attendees noted in addition to “Crew Quarters” the draft legislation also allows for passengers of vessels being service or moored at Marinas or Marine Related Industrial Establishments. MRC Urban Infill subcommittee Chairman Murley suggested the full MRC recommend approval of the draft amendment to the Zoning code with one condition, deleting all references to “and / or passengers” which would leave the short term on site accommodations available to vessel crews by Warrant.”

MS Sallye Jude suggested size limitation be included for the proposed crew quarters.

The MRC adopted a resolution (11-2) recommending approval of the draft amendment to the Zoning code subject to the following conditions:

1) Deleting all references to “and / or passengers” which would leave the short term on site accommodations available to vessel crews by Warrant.”
2) Requiring the warrant is presented to the MRC to create an advisory recommendation for the City administration’s consideration, prior to the City Administration issuing a decision on the Warrant application
3) Do not allow crew quarters to become separate folio / parcel

IV. Presentation Regarding Boat Slips

The MRC’s Economic Development and Commerce subcommittee’s September 13, 2016 public meeting minutes were distributed, in addition to the proposed plans, a week prior to the meeting. Spencer Crowley, Akerman, provided copies and presented an informational proposal to create a 50 boat slip marina at 1 Herald Plaza. The submerged bay bottom at this location is owned by the City of Miami. Therefore the City Commission will consider a rental agreement, the State of Florida’s Board of Trustees (Governor and Cabinet), will consider a deed restriction similar to their previously approved Island Garden Marina on Watson Island / Biscayne Bay, and the Board of County Commissioners will consider the proposed marina because it has 50 boat slips.

Mr. Crowley stated the site was a Marine Terminal 40 years ago, and was previously dredged to 18’ deep which impacted the natural habitat. Mr. Crowley stated the Miami-Dade County Manatee Protection Plan Review Committee recommended boat slip transfers. The proposal includes 28 powerboat slips from 1995 NW 11 ST “South Fork Parcel 1” (not South Fork Parcels 2 & 3 leased to Apex Marine) and 14 powerboats slips from Austral Marina, 2190 NW North River Drive. A covenant would be recorded at 1995 NW 11 ST leaving 47 total boat slips with a maximum of 19 powerboats on the site (28 sailboats), and a covenant would be recorded at 2190 NW North River Drive, leaving 46 total boat slips with a maximum of 11 powerboats (35 sailboats).

Mr. Crowley stated a 50 slips marina at 1 Herald Plaza on Biscayne Bay would have a positive economic impact on the Miami River boatyards because they would be the closest locations for necessary services. Mr. Crowley stated a recent economic analysis found the proposed marina will generate $21 million in economic impact.

Mr. Crowley indicated there are at least 2 previous similar precedents.

MRC EDC Chairman Everingham stated the Miami River Commission since its inception has always strongly supported the local marine industry and its long-time presence on the Miami River. This support is also prominently stated in the Port of Miami River Sub-element of both the Miami-Dade County's Comprehensive Development Master Plan and the City of Miami's Comprehensive Neighborhood Plan.

Specific documentation of the MRC's support of the local marine industry and its presence on the River:

"Preservation and improvement of the Miami River's historic marine industry is in the best interest of our local economy." Marine Industry Symposium Report - 2005 (Symposium sponsored by the MRC)

"In light of the marine industry's positive economic impacts to our community, strengthening support of the Miami River's marine industry is necessary." Miami River Corridor Urban Infill Plan

"It may be possible to allow an even greater number of motorboat slips or density at a particular location without increasing overall impact to manatees in the River, if slips that were given up of were no longer used elsewhere could be transferred or reallocated." Miami River Corridor Urban Infill Plan

“maintain existing and providing for new boat slips” Miami River Corridor Urban Infill Plan

Mr. Everingham stated clearly the building of new marinas in and as allowed and properly permitted in Biscayne Bay serves the interests of our local marine industry and benefits our local economy.

The MRC adopted a resolution (10-1) finding the proposal consistent with the MRC’s adopted strategic plan, the Miami River Corridor Urban Infill Plan, and consistent with the City of Miami’s Comprehensive Plan which states, “Policy PA-3.1.8: There shall be no net loss of recreational wet-slips along the Miami River.”, therefore recommended approval.

V. MRC Subcommittee Reports
A. Greenways Subcommittee - Chair Dr. Ernie Martin
I would like to welcome and introduce everyone to Amanda Smith whom the City of Miami thankfully hired into the Planning Department in order to work towards completing the public Riverwalk and connecting Baywalk.

The MRC’s next Greenways and Urban Infill Subcommittee public meeting is October 21, 3 PM in the smaller multi-purpose room at this same address.

B. Stormwater Subcommittee - Chair Sallye Jude
The Stormwater subcommittee’s September 7, public meeting minutes were distributed.

The City administration rejected the 2 bids submitted to the original Wagner Creek and Seybold Canal Maintenance Dredging and Environmental Cleanup Project’s RFP, and re-advertised the RFP with bids due the end of September. The City estimates the City Commission approving the winner bidder in December 2016, with actual dredging commencing in March – April 2017. The City of Miami is extending all the project’s executed permits.

C. Economic Development and Commerce Subcommittee – Chair Philip Everingham
The MRC’s Economic Development and Commerce Subcommittee’s September 13 public meeting minutes were distributed.

The meeting adjourned.

I. Chair Report – MRC Chairman Horacio Stuart Aguirre

The Miami River Commission unanimously adopted the distributed draft October 3, 2016 public meeting minutes, which were previously distributed via electronic mail.

We are now going to play a 2 minute video featuring last year’s free 20th Annual MiamiRiverday, which aired repeatedly on the City of Miami’s CH 77. The MRC has already commenced working on the free 21st Annual Miami Riverday which will be held April 1, 1-6 PMin the new improved Lummus Park, 250 NW North River Drive. Sponsorships are available, in addition to advertisements in the 14th Annual Miami River Map and Guide which will bereleased at Miami Riverday.

I thank the Spring Garden Civic Association for honoring the MRC’s Managing Director Brett Bibeau at their neighborhood event last Saturday in the public riverfront Greenfield Garden. The MRC is glad that Miami River residents know we strongly support them.

I thank SFWMD Chairman Daniel O’Keefe whom recently indicated he will be personally attending future MRC meetings on their behalf. I welcome Armando Villaboy, SFWMD, whom has joined us today.

Everyone is invited to the City of Miami’s Lummus Park Riverwalk ribbon cutting ceremony at 3 PM today, 250 NW North River Drive. The MRC thanks the City of Miami and FIND for funding the beautiful public temporary dockage and Riverwalk in the City of Miami’s oldest park.

Chairman Aguirre stated on November 2 the City of Miami Zoning Administrator issued a Zoning Interpretation which removes the City of Miami Zoning Code’s Waterfront building setbacks, view corridor setbacks and public Riverwalk requirements along the Miami River west of the 5 ST Bridge (Miami 21 Section 3.11 and Appendix B). Since then, the City of Miami Zoning Administrator provided a distributed draft revised zoning administration, which reinserts these important legal requirements into the Zoning Code, as they have been since Miami 21’s adoption. The current Zoning interpretation is appealable for only 15 days, which expires on November 17.

MRC board members asked Director Bibeau for additional background information. Director Bibeau replied long before the current Miami 21 Zoning Code was adopted estimated 7 years ago, the public at referendum approved inserting these waterfront building setbacks, view corridors and public walkways along Biscayne Bay and the Miami River, up to the 5th ST Bridge into the City Charter. When the City of Miami presented the draft new zoning code, Miami 21, to the public and the MRC, the Code clearly stated, “In addition to the Miami City Charter requirements, the following Setback, walkways, and waterfront standards shall apply to all waterfront properties within the City of Miami, except as a modifications to these standards for all waterfront properties may be approved by the City Commission pursuant to the procedures established in the City Charter.” Expanding the City Charter requirements which had been limited geographically to Biscayne Bay and the Miami River up to the 5 ST Bridge would in addition now apply to “all waterfront properties within the City of Miami”. Since Miami 21’s adoption estimated 7 years ago, including Section 3.11, these “Waterfront Standards” have been applied, as required by the Code, to 4 developments on the Miami River located west of the 5 ST Bridge. The Issued Zoning interpretation now only applies these legal requirements for the public Riverwalk, waterfront building setbacks and waterfront view corridors to Biscayne Bay and the Miami River east of the 5 ST Bridge.

The Miami River Commission unanimously agreed to file an appeal to the Zoning Interpretation, and continue working with the City of Miami towards amending or reversing the issued Zoning Interpretation, in order for the Code’s legal requirements for waterfront walkways, building setbacks and view corridors to remain in place for the entire Miami River and all connecting waterways (up to the salinity dams or terminus, whichever comes first).

MRC Vice Chairman Jose Felix Diaz provided the following stated Miami River Voluntary Improvement Plan (VIP) update:

On behalf of the MRC I thank all the volunteers from 2 Miami River Greenway beautification events held last weekend. Last Saturday volunteers pulled weeds, spread 140 new bags of garden soil and compost, planted 150 new vegetable and fruit plants and trees, spread 65 bags of mulch and picked up garbage at the public Riverwalk’s community vegetable and fruit garden, here at 1407 NW 7 ST. In addition, last Sunday volunteers from VolunteerCleanup.org picked up litter along the shoreline in Sewell Park.

The MRC notified FDOT regarding a tall palm tree on their Brickell Bridge public right of way which fell and is a tripping hazard.

The MRC thanks the City of Miami and FPL whom are in final planning stages for needed improvements of the public Riverwalk section owned by FPL on the north shore from Metro-Rail to 2 Ave Bridge.

II. Consider Proposed Amendments to the Zoning Code Regarding CrewQuarters in D1 and D3 Zoning
Joe Eisenberg, City of Miami Planning Department, presented the item, and distributed an improved / revised draft ordinance.

The MRC’s Urban Infill subcommittee’s September 14, 2016 public meeting minutes were distributed stating:

“Prior to the meeting Joseph Eisenberg, City of Miami Planning Department, provided the distributed draft amendment to the City of Miami’s Miami 21 Zoning Code, inserting a definition for Crew Quarters which would be allowed by Warrant (subject to appeal) in D1, D2 and D3 Zoning. Mr. Eisenberg had told Director Bibeau that residential and hotels are still not allowed, and “crew quarters” would be something less than a hotel room or residential unit. Mr. Eisenberg had indicated the definition has been temporarily in effect for last 2 years by administrative action which is expiring, and the City of Miami Planning Department is now proposing this amendment to the Zoning Code to make it permanent. Mr. Eisenberg had informed Mr. Bibeau that over the past 2 years no applications for Crew quarters have been submitted to the City of Miami for consideration, and none are currently pending. Attendees noted in addition to “Crew Quarters” the draft legislation also allows for passengers of vessels being service or moored at Marinas or Marine Related Industrial Establishments. MRC Urban Infill subcommittee Chairman Murley suggested the full MRC recommend approval of the draft amendment to the Zoning code with one condition, deleting all references to “and / or passengers” which would leave the short term on site accommodations available to vessel crews by Warrant.”

The MRC’s adopted October 3, 2016 public meeting minutes state:
“The MRC adopted a resolution (11-2) recommending approval of the draft amendment to the Zoning code subject to the following conditions:

1)Deleting all references to “and / or passengers” which would leave the short term on site accommodations available to vessel crews by Warrant.”

2)Requiring the warrant is presented to the MRC to create an advisory recommendation for theCity administration’s consideration, prior to the City Administration issuing a decision on the Warrant application

3)Do not allow crew quarters to become separate folio / parcel”

MRC Director Bibeau thanked the City of Miami and Planning Zoning and Appeals Board for agreeing to delete all references to passengers and crew quarters will not become separate folios / parcels, therefore the MRC’s original conditions #1 and #3 have been granted.
The MRC Urban Infill and Greenways subcommittee’s October 21, 2016 public meeting minutes were distributed, stating:

“Mark Bailey, Miami River Marine Group, and Phil Everingham, the Marine Council’s designee on the MRC, stated the Miami River Marine Group and Marine Council are recommending approval of the City of Miami’s proposed amendment to the zoning code to allow Crew Quarters with the MRC’s 3 recommended conditions as established during the MRC’s October 3 public meeting, plus an additional 2 conditions which they are asking the MRC to adopt as well... Mr. Bailey and Mr. Everingham stated the Marine Council and Miami River Marine Group’s 2 additional conditions which they are asking the MRC to add to their original aforementioned 3 conditions are:

• Insert a maximum density not to exceed 1 crew quarter per permitted boat slip in theMarine Operating Permit (MOP)
  
• Insert City Planning Director Garcia’s suggested word “dormitory” into the definition ofcrew quarters
  MRC Urban Infill Working Group Chairman Murley suggested the MRC include the 2 additional recommended conditions:
  Insert a maximum density not to exceed 1 crew quarter per permitted boat slip in theMarine Operating Permit (MOP)
  
• Insert City Planning Director Garcia’s suggested word “dormitory” into the definition of crew quarters”
  

The MRC adopted a unanimous resolution recommending approval of the zoning amendment to allow Crew Quarters in D1, D2 and D3 zoning, subject to the following conditions:
1)Requiring the warrant is presented to the MRC to create an advisoryrecommendation for the City administration’s consideration, prior to the CityAdministration issuing a decision on the Warrant application
2)Insert a maximum density not to exceed 1 crew quarter per permitted boat slip inthe Marine Operating Permit (MOP)
3)Insert City Planning Director Garcia’s suggested word “dormitory” into thedefinition of crew quarters
4)Replacing the words “or moored” with the words “temporarily stored”

III. Consider Proposed EAR Based Amendments to the Comp Plan
Sue Trone, City of Miami Planning Department, presented the item, including an overview of the City of Miami’s adopted Comprehensive Master Plan, the Evaluation Appraisal Report (EAR), and the EAR base amendments to the Comp Plan. MS Trone stated the City has recently completed the 1st Phase, and a future 2nd Phase will include additional public input and processes. The City of Miami’s draft EAR based amendments to the City of Miami’s adopted Comprehensive Master Plan were previously distributed repeatedly. Consistently throughout the Comp Plan the word “shall” is being replaced with “will” which is the main amendment to the Port Miami River sub-element. MRC Urban Infill Subcommittee Chairman Murley suggested the MRC recommend approval of the City of Miami’s proposed EAR Based amendments to the Comp Plan. In October the MRC deferred this item so it may be considered by Miami Neighbors United (MNU) and the Urban Environment League (UEL) first.

The MRC adopted a unanimous resolution recommending approval of the distributed EAR based amendments to the Comp Plan.

V. MRC Subcommittee Reports
A. Greenways Subcommittee
On behalf of the MRC, Director Bibeau thanked the City of Miami for applying and FDOT for recently awarding a $1 million grant to construct a section of the public Miami River Greenway.

The Greenways and Urban Infill Subcommittee’s October 21 public meeting minutes were distributed, and our next public meeting is next Monday, November 21, in the “Multi-purpose room” at 1407 NW 7 ST.

B. Stormwater Subcommittee - Chair Sallye Jude
The City administration rejected the 2 bids submitted to the original Wagner Creek and Seybold Canal Maintenance Dredging and Environmental Cleanup Project’s RFP, and re-advertised the RFP with bids due the end of September, resulting in 2 new submitted bids which the City are currently reviewing. The City estimates the City Commission approving the winning bidder in January 2017, with actual dredging commencing in March – April 2017.

Stormwater subcommittee’s next public meeting will be December 7, 10 AM, in the “Multi-purpose room” at 1407 NW 7 ST.

The meeting adjourned.

I. Chair Report – MRC Chairman Horacio Stuart Aguirre

The Miami River District is hot, and as an original volunteer member of the Miami River Commission since it was established 17 years ago, Katherine Fernandez Rundle helped spark this fire which is significantly improving the natural environment and economy. Katherine Fernandez Rundle has always strongly supported the Miami River District and was instrumental in bringing the Miami River’s renaissance to fruition. Therefore on behalf of the Miami River Commission and all whom live work and play in the Miami River District, we cordially present Katherine Fernandez Rundle with this small token of our deep appreciation and gratitude.

Gary Winston made a motion to accept the previously distributed MRC November 2 draft public meeting minutes. The motion was seconded by Sandy O-Neil and unanimously adopted by the MRC.

The MRC thanks the City of Miami for advertising the RFP to conduct the fully funded and permitted Wagner Creek and Seybold Canal Maintenance Dredging and Environmental Improvement Project. Mr. Robert Weinreb, City of Miami, stated they will add a change order to include the additional hump of sediment in the Miami River at the confluence of the Seybold Canal.

The 5th Annual Miami River Calendars have been distributed, and we thank all the advertisers for their support. The MRC thanked Pietro Taballione, Disc-Hover, whom 10 years ago was a MRC volunteer intern, for providing the cover picture which he took with a drone. Mr. Taballione thanked the MRC for the successful efforts to improve the Miami River District for the community.

Sponsorships are now available for the 20th annual free Miami Riverday to be held April 2, 2016, and the 13th Annual Miami River Map and Guide.

MRC Vice-Chairman Jay Carmichael provided the following Miami River Voluntary Improvement Plan (VIP) update. The following are a sample of some of the items recently addressed in the MRC’s Miami River Voluntary Improvement Plan (VIP): MRC thanks Bob Murray at the James L Knight Center, and City Parks Director Kirwin, for providing garbage removal from FT Dallas Park along with the MRC, now once per week each, for an increased total of 3 times per week.

MRC thanks the City of Miami for pledging an increase in maintenance of the City owned sections of the public Miami River Greenway to once every 2-3 weeks, supplemented by the maintenance provided by the MRC.

MRC thanks FPL for recently promising new needed lights will be installed along their section of the public Riverwalk within 2 weeks, and FPL is now providing maintenance 1 time per week.
A resident reported the new Riverwalk lights beneath Metro-Rail’s north shore were not working, the MRC forwarded to the report to the correct people in Miami-Dade County, whom we thank for repairing the problem within 48 hours.

The MRC reported broken street lights along the on-road Miami River Greenway to FPL for repairs.
MRC thanks DERM, which has agreed to provide results of water quality test violations much faster so they can be inspected to try and find the contamination source.

MRC continued to following up with FDOT on following needed items:
1) Adding more Lights on Flagler Bridge
2) Repairing broken Lights on 1 ST Bridge
4) Removing broken fence at 1 St Bridge
5) Repairing fence at Flagler Bridge
6) etc

II) Consideration of Submitted Bids to City of Miami Request for Proposals (RFP) to Lease City Owned 236-298 NW North River Drive
The City of Miami advertised a Request for Proposals (RFP) to lease City owned 236-298 NW North River Drive. The RFP requires proposals to be consistent with the existing Marine Industrial D3 zoning and Port of Miami River Land Use. The City site has been leased under a monthly “license agreement” to Garcia’s commercial fishing for the past 45 years. The City’s deadline to submit bids has passed and the City received the following 1 proposal / bid.

Mr. Alex Mantecon distributed and presented the submitted proposal / bid for the “Riverside Wharf”. On the presented plans, “Site 2” are the parcels owned by the City of Miami, and the adjacent riverfront “Site 1” to the North West is owned by Mr. Mantecon. “Site 2” consists of 2, 3-story buildings featuring a fish market, commercial fishing vessel dockage, and 2 restaurants, all featuring a publicly accessible Riverwalk. Mr. Mantecon stated Willy Bermello’s design creates a juxta position of maritime industrial vocabulary to recall the area’s past, within a modern framework of sculptural steel, sheet metal, concrete and glass. The adjacent site to the south east of the City parcels was rented by Mr. Mantecon from Mr. Manny Prieguez, in order to connect the public Riverwalk to the east with the existing public Riverwalk which proceeds east beneath I-95, past the City Administration Building, etc. Mr. Prieguez confirmed this statement of fact, and recused himself from the item. Luis Garcia stated his family has rented the City owned property and generated commercial fishing jobs for the past 45 years on a month to month basis, which therefore gave him no opportunity to improve the City parcels as desired. Therefore, Mr. Garcia stated he is glad his commercial fishing business is part of the only submitted bid for the City’s advertised long term lease, which will now allow the City’s parcels to be substantially improved. Mr. Garcia stated he has visited successful Fisherman Wharf’s in other waterfront cities, and hopes to make one on the Miami River. The City site has a current Marine Operating Permit for 18 boat slips, which will be maintained with 2 of the slips allocated for commercial fishermen to load and unload their fresh seafood catches. Mr. Mantecon stated the seafood traps will be kept at Garcia’s private owned parcel on the Seybold Canal. Mr. Mantecon stated the area’s planned Fisherman’s Wharf is becoming a reality, for example the subject development is adjacent to the Sushi Samba self-standing restaurant recently commenced construction on North River Drive between the 1 ST and Flagler Bridges, and will also feature a connecting section of the public Riverwalk. Mr. Mantecon noted the City’s parcels would be very difficult to develop on their own without his adjacent private property, because the City parcels have an odd shape, 5 sides, adjacent to I-95, restricted uses by the current Port of Miami River Land Use and D3 Marine Industrial zoning, difficult vehicular access, and the $195,500 per year minimum rent plus 3-5% increases per year plus a percentage of revenue, for a total minimum guaranteed rent in excess of $22 million over the life of the lease. Mr. Mantecon stated the proposal requires no amendments to the land use and zoning, and the public Riverwalk is 15-feet wide and is consistent with Zoning Code Section 3.11 and the City Charter. Mr. Mantecon stated he is in negotiations with the Miami Parking Authority whom controls numerous large public paid parking lost beneath adjacent I-95 which empty after 5 PM when the restaurants would start getting busier. Mr. Mantecon stated the RFP schedule has the submitted bid being considered by the City Commission on December 10, followed by a vote by the entire public at referendum in March 2016.
Mr. Mantecon proceeded to present the plans for his adjacent owned land shown on the plans as “Site 1” (114 SW North River Drive and 300 SW 2 ST). The plans consist of 2 more riverfront 3 story restaurants, again featuring the minimum 15-foot wide public Riverwalk connecting to the east with the public Riverwalk at “Site 1” and connecting to the west with the public Riverwalk proposed at the planned 1 ST Bridge replacement. “Site 1” and “Site 2” together have 60% useable open space available to the public, a continuous needed 15-foot wide section of the public Riverwalk along 599 linear feet of the Miami River, connecting with public Riverwalks to the east at I-95 and to the west at 1 ST Bridge, which will feature a new needed seawall and maintain dockage for 18 vessels, consistent with the sites current Marine Operating Permits and submerged land leases which will be maintained, 3 plaza and breezeways entries providing view corridors to pedestrians and motorists along North River Drive, 4 restaurants, a fish market, combined air conditioned space of 33,073 square feet, seating capacity of 1,200 seats, projected to generate 300 permanent jobs, saves the site’s current 30 commercial fishing jobs, and a public kayak and paddleboard launch. Mr. Mantecon stated both sites, all 4 presented restaurants, and the public Riverwalk, will be constructed in 1 phase.

MRC Urban Infill Subcommittee Chairman Murley noted their distributed September 23 public meeting minutes which state in part, “The Miami River Corridor Urban Infill Plan states the following about this specific subject area on page 22, ‘Consideration should be given to relaxing roadside setbacks, and /or parking requirements for all of these waterfront sites in exchange for development that embraces the water’s edge as a public amenity, provides active pedestrian oriented uses along North River Drive, and respects the scale and character of the historic Lummus Park neighborhood.” The City of Miami’s Comprehensive Plan specifically calls for a “Fisherman’s Wharf” in this part of the Miami River. MRC Urban Infill Subcommittee Chairman Murley recommended the full MRC find the presented proposed development of both “Site 1” and the City owned “Site 2” plans to be consistent with the adopted Miami River Corridor Urban Infill Plan and the Miami River Greenways Action Plan, therefore recommending approval.

MS Sandy O’Neil made a motion supporting MRC Subcommittee Chairman Murley’s recommendation that the proposed “Fisherman’s Wharf” is a great attraction and is consistent with the adopted Miami River Corridor Urban Infill Plan, the Miami River Greenways Action Plan, and the Comprehensive Plan, therefore recommended approval. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Barreiro & unanimously adopted by the MRC.

III) Consideration of Development Proposal for 1170-1180 NW 11 ST and 1080 NW 11 CT, Approved by Historic and Environmental Preservation Board with Conditions
MRC Director Bibeau stated on November 2 the full MRC adopted a unanimous resolution asking for this item to be presented to the MRC subcommittee in November , followed by the full MRC on December 7, noon, 1407 NW 7 ST. MRC Urban Infill Chairman Murley stated many years ago the MRC had previously considered a different development, “River Garden” which was being proposed at that time for this same site.

Ethan Wasserman and Ryan Bailine, Greenberg Traurig, and Albert Cordoves, Architect, presented and distributed plans for “Modera River House”, proposed by “Mill Creek Residential Trust”. The proposed development consists of:
•1170 NW 11 ST – 233 residential rental units, 8 stories, 383 parking spaces. Currently zoned T6-8.
•1080 NW 11 CT – 30 residential rental units, 5 stories, 45 parking spaces and restoring existing home to be used as a library and the Spring Garden Civic Association may use it for meetings monthly, max 12 times per year, 4 hours each with 15 days notice. Currently zoned T5.
•1180 NW 11 ST – 29 residential rental units, 5 stories, 44 parking spaces. Currently zoned T5.
The development team proposes to improve and maintain the public pedestrian and bicycle pathway in between the 12 Ave Bridge and the proposed 8-story building.

Kathi Gibson and Gioia DeCarlo, Spring Garden residents, stated their main desire is for the largest parking garage entrance and exit be moved off of North River Drive where traffic would cross the on-road Miami River Greenway and proceed through the historically designated Spring Garden neighborhood as presented. Instead they recommended the parking entrance and exit be located on NW 11 ST and or NW 11 CT with means to channel the traffic towards NW 11 ST and away from North River Drive, the Miami River Greenway and the historic Spring Garden neighborhood. The presented plans remove an existing vehicular traffic land on NW 11 ST, and the residents recommend keeping this existing vehicular traffic lane on NW 11 ST. Attendees discussed the west elevation’s 4 story parking garage façade “Metal Grille Detail” pictured in the plans on page A-4.00.

MRC Urban Infill Chairman Murley referenced the distributed November public MRC subcommittee meeting minutes on this item, where he recommended approval of the proposed development, and finding it consistent with the Miami River Corridor Urban Infill Plan and the Miami River Greenway Action Plan subject to the following conditions:

1) Minimize vehicular entrance and exit to parking structure from North River Drive and relocate them to NW 11 ST and 11 CT channeling the cars towards NW 11 ST as much as possible, without blocking NW 11 CT, in order for the cars to avoid the Miami River Greenway and historic Spring Garden Neighborhood
2) Leave all existing vehicular lanes operational on NW 11 ST (do not remove an existing vehicular lane as depicted) and create/ implement a coordinated transportation plan for the area
3) Improve the parking garage façade
4) More intensive planning, improvements and maintenance of the existing public pathway along the NE side of the NW 12 Ave Bridge, which connects pedestrians and bicycles from NW 11 ST to North River Drive and the Miami River Greenway

Ms. Sandy O’Neil made a motion for the MRC to adopt MRC Urban Infill Chairman Murley’s recommended advisory recommendation of approval of the proposed development, and finding it consistent with the Miami River Corridor Urban Infill Plan and the Miami River Greenway Action Plan subject to the following conditions:

1) Minimize vehicular entrance and exit to parking structure from North River Drive and relocate them to NW 11 ST and 11 CT channeling the cars towards NW 11 ST as much as possible, without blocking NW 11 CT, in order for the cars to avoid the Miami River Greenway and historic Spring Garden Neighborhood
2) Leave all existing vehicular lanes operational on NW 11 ST (do not remove an existing vehicular lane as depicted) and create/implement a coordinated transportation plan for the area
3) Improve the parking garage façade
4) More intensive planning, improvements and maintenance of the existing public pathway along the NE side of the NW 12 Ave Bridge, which connects pedestrians and bicycles from NW 11 ST to North River Drive and the Miami River Greenway
The motion was seconded by Commissioner Barreiro and unanimously adopted by the MRC.

IV. MRC Subcommittee Reports
Greenways subcommittee, Chairman Dr. Ernie Martin:
I thank the City of Miami, Commissioner Gort and CITP Director Rodriguez for agreeing to submit at least 1, and maybe 2 federal TEP $1,000,000 grant applications, matched by the City with $250,000 per application, to continue the Miami River Greenway from I-836 proceeding west. In November MRC Director Bibeau conducted a site visit with the City staff authoring their grant application.

I thank Miami-Dade County which finished construction of the public riverwalk beneath Metro-Rail on both the North and South shores, which on both shores now connect with previously constructed sections of the public riverwalk. I thank Commissioner Barreiro for meeting with Director Bibeau regarding spending the remaining balance of the County’s “Miami River Greenway” line item in the GOB Bond Issue, and having the County apply for more matching FIND and TAP grants.

The MRC coordinated and funded 2 volunteer Miami River Greenway Beautification events in November. The MRC thanks the volunteers from Hands on Miami and Marlins Ayudan, whom on November 10, and Saturday, November 21, pulled weeds and re-planted the community vegetable and fruit garden for the upcoming season, and removed litter along the public Riverwalk’s south shore here at Robert King High. The MRC’s next coordinated and funded volunteer Miami River Greenway beautification event is December 10, with a new group of Volunteers from Touch Miami with Love.

The next Greenways and Urban Infill Subcommittee public meeting is December 17, here, at 3 PM.

Stormwater Subcommittee, Chair Sallye Jude
The Stormwater subcommittee met last Wednesday. I thank the agencies for conducting the “Walk the WBID” searched all; day on November 3, 4 and 5, via land and water, and found many sources of contamination along the Miami River. The items are being formulated into an action item list designed to eliminate these multiple identified contamination sources. As you may recall, this is the same process used for the Wagner Creek and Seybold Canal Walk the WBID.

Economic Development and Commerce, Chair Phil Everingham
The MRC Economic Development and Commerce (EDC) subcommittee’s November public meeting minutes have been distributed.

MRC EDC working with the School Board, Bayside Foundation and the Miami River Marine Group to support the School Board’s adopted resolution to create a marine industrial vocational program.

Miami River Property and Business Database is under way. I thank Miami-Dade County Tax Appraiser Pedro Garcia and his wonderful department for recently providing a CD of public data on the riverfront parcels.
FDOT reported they have appropriated $300,000 for a Port of Miami River Freight study, for which State SIS funding may become available to implement the Plan’s recommendations designed to improve freight transportation along the Port of Miami River, which is now officially a SIS facility eligible for SIS funding as long recommended by the MRC.

The meeting adjourned.