HomeMy WebLinkAbout2023-12-13 - City Commission Regular Meeting MinutesREGULAR CITY COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2023
7:00 PM
COMMISSION CHAMBERS
CALL TO ORDER
Mayor Michelle J. Gomez called the Wednesday, December 13, 2023, City Commission meeting,
being held in Commission Chambers, to order at 7:03 p.m.
ROLL CALL
Present were Mayor Michelle J. Gomez, Vice Mayor Morey Wright Jr., Commissioner Marlon D.
Bolton, Commissioner Kicia Daniel, and Commissioner Elvin Villalobos.
Also present were City Manager Levent Sucuoglu, Assistant City Manager Maxine Calloway, City
Attorney Hans Ottinot, and City Clerk Kimberly Dillon.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Commissioner Kicia Daniel led the Pledge of Allegiance and moment of silence.
1. CITY ATTORNEY REPORT
City Attorney Ottinot had no report.
2. CITY MANAGER REPORT
2.a. Proclamation for Tamarac Fire Rescue EMS "World Rescue Challenge"
Team and 2023 Bernie Tillson Memorial EMS Challenge Team
Beth Talabisco, Former Tamarac Mayor and Broward County District Director,
made a presentation on behalf of Broward County Commissioner Michael Udine,
District 3 and Broward County Mayor Nan Rich recognizing the Tamarac Fire
Rescue EMS "World Rescue Challenge" Team and 2023 Bernie Tillson Memorial
EMS Challenge Team.
2.b. Investment Report — October 2023
City Manager Sucuoglu made a presentation of the City Manager's Report which is on file
in the City Clerk's Office.
3. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
Mayor Gomez noted the rules for public comment were posted and opened the floor to
comments from the public.
1) Neil Goldberg, 7409 Fairfax Drive, Tamarac, stated the only reason he could see for a
one (1) year extension of the Shaker Village sale was to continue to convince people to
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December 13, 2023 — Regular Commission Meeting
Page 2
support the purchase. He addressed the discussion of a study related to a new Town
Hall and asserted the residents should not pay for the expense, as it makes no sense.
2) Darcy Schiller, Kings Point, Tamarac, stated Commissioners had said from the dais
multiple times that the residents of Tamarac do not want more housing, yet they
continue to engage with Colliers on beautiful mixed -use projects that include
residential. She argued they do not need to spend money bringing in upscale restaurants
and businesses because it has been proven the City can't keep them. She commented
on the City's reserves and suggested putting money into improving the plazas instead
and building something on the east side of Tamarac.
3) Mark Goggin, 4503 NW 26t' Street, Tamarac, commented on the Shaker Village
clubhouse and asserted the community should have sought FEMA funding for the
repair of storm damage rather than relying on residents who have their own clubhouses.
He stated if the City had the money, they should do something for all of the residents,
like more Broward Sheriff's Office (BSO) officers and parking enforcement.
4) Joan Florsheim, Kings Point, Tamarac, stated putting the Shaker Village project off a
year does not accomplish anything, and it needs to be taken off the agenda. She asserted
she was furious there was any consideration of spending taxpayer dollars for a
community that blew their resources when they had them and added that the City Hall
idea was ridiculous. She stated it was time to start looking at finances more responsibly
and for the Commissioners to think independently.
5) Ronald Wasserman, Shangri La, Tamarac, wished everyone happy holidays and
encouraged those listening to get cancer screenings. He advised everyone to look
inward and know that they are doing the right job and following up when they say they
will follow up. He asked what was wrong with wanting a safe, clean community.
6) George Johnson, Mainlands 4, Tamarac, stated he had been a broker and real estate
agent for more than 40 years, and had done his own research on the Shaker Village
issue. He asserted the clubhouse is owned in common by the residents of Shaker Village
and referenced a lawsuit filed by the association for their share of the common area. He
asked that the Commission not extend the contract for the purchase due to title issues,
and stated the contract could be re -executed if and when they were able to clear title.
7) Dr. Kate Johnson, Mainlands 4, Tamarac, compared the Shaker Village issue to a
mouse you can't remove from your kitchen. She posited whether the residents of
Shaker Village knew what amenities they were giving up, and stated there are issues
with the function of the property, including parking for events. She stated the City
Attorney should be looking out for the best interests of residents, and Shaker Village
should not be dictating what happens. She discussed issues with the title and stated she
had never heard of a sales contract being extended for a year and a half.
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December 13, 2023 — Regular Commission Meeting
Page 3
8) Mona Perlman, 7530 Granville Drive, Tamarac, stated she did not know if all of the
Commissioners had thought about the structural engineering costs associated with the
Shaker Village project. She asserted they were putting unit owners on a fixed income
in a difficult position to pay for the project, and this would lead to foreclosures. She
stated they should focus on economics to bring different people into Tamarac.
9) Jodi Ann Reed, Shaker Village, Tamarac, advised that she was frustrated, because the
Shaker Village Board had shared factual information time and again before the
Commission, and each time they are met with rebuttals that demonstrate a lack of
critical thinking and stubborn refusal to recognize reality. She referenced comments
made at past meetings by staff and residents and guidance by realtors and attorneys and
implored everyone to take notice of the pattern. She stated she had been reached out to
by a representative of the Florida Commission on Ethics, which gave her hope for
further understanding that the sale of the clubhouse was in everyone's best interest.
10) Nadine Gordon, Shaker Village, Tamarac, reiterated Ms. Reed's comment that
information in the community regarding the Shaker Village purchase is not correct. She
noted Shaker Village residents are also Tamarac tax payers and stated the voices of the
eastern side of the City deserved equal consideration. She advised the extension of the
contract was morally imperative, as the lawsuit's legitimacy had been questioned, and
the Board needed time to dispel the doubts and seek a resolution. She asked the
Commissioners to rise above politics and personal connections to focus on the
community's welfare.
11) E.G. Heron, Shaker Village, Tamarac, shared a story of seeing a child being run over
by a car and the emotions that came up as a crowd gathered following the accident. He
encouraged leadership on the issue of Shaker Village.
12) Patti Lynn, Mainlands 8, Tamarac, stated the Shaker Village item should be pulled from
the Consent Agenda, and something should be done. She asserted there were alternate
facts being touted in this case, as it is a common element of the community. She
congratulated the Fire Department team on their win.
13) Stewart Webster, Versailles Gardens, commented on references to individuals made
during public comment. He stated members of the Shaker Village community, aided
by others, were coming before the Commission to sanctimoniously educate the public
that if they do not allow this unprecedented partnership, the entire City would be the
losers. He asserted there are many other locations within walking distance that would
be more conducive to a community center. He commented on his experience and stated
he saw no advantage to the purchase.
14) Viola Watson, 4930 E Sabal Palm Boulevard, Tamarac, expressed concern with 13t'
Floor donating to charities, as the City needs money to look better than it is. She
asserted charity should start at home, and costs are rising for senior citizens.
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December 13, 2023 — Regular Commission Meeting
4. CONSENT AGENDA
Page 4
City Manager Sucuoglu stated he had no changes to the agenda.
Commissioner Villalobos requested that Item 4q be pulled for discussion.
Moved by Mayor Gomez; seconded by Commissioner Villalobos to approve the
Consent Agenda, minus Item 4q.
Motion Approved: 5-0.
Voting For: Mayor Gomez, Commissioner Bolton, Commissioner Daniel,
Commissioner Villalobos, and Commissioner Wright. Voting Against: None.
Commissioner Bolton asked that Item 5a be heard prior to Item 4q, as 5a was also pulled
from the Consent Agenda. Discussion ensued.
Moved by Commissioner Bolton; seconded by Commissioner Wright to hear Item
5a prior to Item 4q.
Commissioner Villalobos asserted the Chair was responsible for the agenda under
Robert's Rules. City Attorney Ottinot responded briefly.
Motion Approved: 3-2.
Voting For: Commissioner Bolton, Commissioner Daniel, and Commissioner
Wright. Voting Against: Mayor Gomez and Commissioner Villalobos.
4.a. Approval of the November 6, 2023, Commission Workshop Minutes.
4.b. Approval of the November 6, 2023, Executive Session Minutes.
4.c. Approval of the November 8, 2023, Regular Commission Meeting Minutes.
4.d. TR14038 - A Resolution of the City Commission of the City of Tamarac, Florida,
approving a Lease Extension and Amendment #1 to the City's lease with
Spectrum Park I, J.V., attached hereto as Exhibit 4" —which provides for rooftop
space on the Spectrum Building for the City's radio system antenna and related
equipment — to extend the lease for an additional ten (10) years commencing on
August 1, 2024, at a new initial monthly rate of $438.00 per month (or $5,256.00
per year), providing for 3% annual increases, with a total ten (10) year lease cost
of $60,254.15; authorizing the appropriate City Officials to execute the Lease
Extension and Amendment #1 with, and to issue any required purchase orders to,
Spectrum Park I, J.V; providing for conflicts; providing for scrivener errors;
providing for severability; and providing for an effective date.
4.e. TR14048 - A Resolution of the City Commission of the City of Tamarac, Florida,
adopting the affordable housing incentive strategies recommendations of the
Affordable Housing Advisory Committee (AHAC) and authorizing the
transmittal of the recommendations in an annual report attached hereto as
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December 13, 2023 — Regular Commission Meeting
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Exhibit "A" to the Florida Housing Finance Corporation in accordance with
Section 420.9076 (4) Florida statutes; providing for conflicts; providing for
severability; and providing for an effective date.
4.f. TR14049 - A Resolution of the City Commission of the City of Tamarac, Florida
approving the Consolidated Annual Performance Evaluation Report (CAPER
FY2022-2023) attached hereto as Exhibit "A" for the U.S. Department of Housing
& Urban Development (HUD)'s Community Development Block Grant (CDBG)
program for HUD's Fiscal Year 2022-2023; providing for conflicts; providing for
severability; and providing for an effective date.
4.g. TR14034 - A Resolution of the City Commission of the City of Tamarac, Florida,
approving and authorizing the appropriate City Officials to execute the First
Amendment to the Site Lease Agreement with T-Mobile South LLC, attached
hereto as Exhibit "1", extending the lease term for five additional and successive
five year terms, commencing on December 1, 2025, and reducing the annual lease
escalation for the cell tower site located at 7531 N. University Drive in Tamarac,
FL; providing for conflicts; providing for scrivener errors providing for
severability; and providing for an effective date.
4.h. TR14056 - A Resolution of the City Commission of the City of Tamarac, Florida,
approving a proposal for Feasibility Analysis and Advisory Services with Colliers
International Florida LLC for study of city -owned Nob Hill Government
Compound and City Hall properties to explore building a new and consolidated
City Hall Municipal Complex and mixed -use redevelopment opportunities;
utilizing the terms and conditions for advisory services per the City of Tamarac
term agreement with Colliers International Florida LLC effective July 5, 2022
through May 28, 2024 with renewal options from the City of Fort Lauderdale
piggyback agreement RFP No. 12630-225; approving the use of this agreement
and approving aggregate funding in an amount not to exceed $79,500.00;
providing for conflicts; providing for severability; and providing for an effective
date.
4.i. TR14061 - A Resolution of the City Commission of the City of Tamarac, Florida,
adopting the National Institute of Standards and Technology Cybersecurity
Framework as the cybersecurity standard for the City of Tamarac, Florida;
providing for conflicts; providing for scrivener errors; providing for severability;
and providing for an effective date.
4.j. TR14060 - A Resolution of the City Commission of the City of Tamarac, Florida,
authorizing the appropriate city officials to award REP 23-38R entitled "Record
Conversion Services" to Advanced Data Solutions, Inc. and execute an agreement
to provide records conversion services to the City of Tamarac for a total up to the
appropriated budget amount for each individual fiscal year, for an initial period
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December 13, 2023 — Regular Commission Meeting
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of 36 months effective with the approval of this agreement, with two (2) additional
one (1) year renewal options at an average cost of $55,000.00 a year; authorizing
the City Manager to approve and execute any subsequent options for extension or
renewal, assignments or change orders according to Section 6-147 of the City
Code; approving funding from the appropriate account; providing for conflicts;
providing for severability; and providing for an effective date.
4.k. TR14052 - A Resolution of the City Commission of the City of Tamarac, Florida,
approving the City of Tamarac Legislative Agenda for the 2024 State of Florida
Legislative Session; directing the City Clerk to transmit a copy of the City of
Tamarac Legislative Agenda For The 2024 State Legislative Session to the Florida
League Of Cities, the Broward League of Cities, the Broward County Legislative
Delegation and the Broward County Board Of County Commissioners; providing
for conflicts; providing for severability; and providing for an effective date.
4.1. TR14057 - A Resolution of the City Commission of the City of Tamarac, Florida,
approving various task authorizations with Stantec Consulting Services;
authorizing a cumulative expenditure for said purpose in an amount not to exceed
$150,000.00; authorizing the City Manager to approve new purchases from
Stantec Consulting Services, Inc. up to a total of $65,000.00 in accordance with
Tamarac Procurement Code; providing for conflicts; providing for severability;
and providing for an effective date.
4.m. TR13990 - A Resolution of the City Commission of the City of Tamarac, Florida,
approving an Agreement with Waste Management Inc. of Florida for Recyclable
Material Processing Services between the City of Tamarac and Waste
Management Inc. of Florida; authorizing the appropriate City Officials to execute
said Agreement and take all steps necessary to effectuate the intent of the
Resolution; further authorizing the City Manager to approve contract renewals
or extensions per the original terms and conditions; authorizing annual
expenditures for residential recycling processing services based upon quantities
of residential recyclable materials collected and the net processing charge per the
terms and conditions; providing for conflicts; providing for severability; and
providing for an effective date.
4.n. TR14066 - A Resolution of the City Commission of the City of City of Tamarac,
Florida, ratifying appropriations applications, attached hereto as Exhibit "A",
and accepting a $400,000 grant for Tamarac Stormwater Culvert Headwalls
Improvement, Phase 7; authorizing the appropriate city officials to execute grant
agreement, attached hereto as Exhibit "B", and necessary documents, with the
State of Florida, Department of Environmental Protection, pending legal review;
agreeing to a 1:1 local match; providing for conflicts; providing for severability;
and providing for an effective date.
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4.o. TR14036 - A Resolution of the City Commission of the City of Tamarac, Florida,
awarding Bid 23-41B to, and approving the purchase from, Zones, Inc. for the
purchase of new Cisco Systems Catalyst 9300 network switches at a cost of
$157,812.36, and R2 Unified Technologies, Inc. for the purchase of new Cisco
Systems Nexus 9300 data center network switches at a cost of $55,613.86, for a
total purchase cost of $213,426.22; authorizing expenditures from the appropriate
accounts; providing for conflicts; providing for scrivener errors; providing for
severability; and providing for an effective date.
4.p. TR14067 - A Resolution of the City Commission of the City of Tamarac, Florida,
amending the City of Tamarac List of Charitable Entities by adding, "Sharon
Wiles Foundation, Inc.", "United Negro College Fund, Inc.", and "Youth
Empowerment Village, Inc.", to the list of charitable entities with whom the City
of Tamarac recognizes a formally approved relationship for the express purpose
of compliance with Section 1-19(c)(5)(a)(4) of the Broward County Code Of
Ordinances; providing for conflicts; providing for severability; and providing for
an effective date.
Item 4q was heard following Item Sa.
4.q. TR14068 - A Resolution of the City Commission of the City of Tamarac, Florida,
authorizing the City Manager and City Attorney to execute an amendment to the
sale and purchase agreement to extend the due diligence period for the purchase
of the Shaker Village Clubhouse; authorizing the City Manager and the City
Attorney to take all necessary actions to effectuate the extension; providing for
conflicts; providing for severability; and providing for an effective date.
City Attorney Ottinot read the title for the record.
Moved by Commissioner Villalobos; seconded by Vice Mayor Wright to approve
Resolution TR14068 as presented.
Mayor Gomez opened the floor to comments from the public.
1) Dr. Kate Johnson, Mainlands 4, Tamarac, asserted she continues to be attacked
regarding her thoughts on the issues surrounding the Shaker Village purchase. She
noted there was disagreement on the facts, and discussed issues with liens, the
definition of association members, and the information provided in presentations.
2) Jodi Ann Reed, Shaker Village, Tamarac, commented on previous statements and
stated misinformation was included in the recorded meeting. She stated the liens
had been addressed, and asserted people were not sharing facts or research. She
offered to sit down and review the facts with anyone willing to listen.
3) E.G. Heron, Shaker Village, Tamarac, discussed decision making and speaking as
one Tamarac. He stated the issue was simple, as there was a property for sale and
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December 13, 2023 — Regular Commission Meeting
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the City had a use for it which would benefit the residents. He asserted the positives
outweigh the negatives.
4) Mark Goggin, 4503 NW 26t' Street, Tamarac, stated there were options for the
repair of the Shaker Village clubhouse following the hurricane, including insurance
funds, FEMA, State of Florida, and low -interest loans. He argued the purchase was
a waste and stated HOAs in east Tamarac had offered their clubhouses for meetings.
5) Kami Bailey, Sunrise, spoke in support of the extension of the contract for purchase
of the property in Shaker Village. She commented on the potential in the City of
Tamarac and the growth of the future. She stated that the attention should be on the
things that matter, including how to band together to help residents.
Mayor Gomez closed public participation.
Commissioner Villalobos stated there is a right way and a wrong way of doing
things, and the way this was done was the wrong way. He noted he was also
opposed to the amount of the sale price which was being placed in escrow, and
questioned what would be done with the funds and the HOA budget.
Commissioner Villalobos asked why there were liens on other parts of the common
area, but this massive eyesore does not have any liens attached to it. Assistant City
Manager Maxine Calloway stated it was her understanding that the City, through
strategic planning and the budget process, had intended to purchase this property,
and because of that direction the previous City Manager had provided direction not
to place liens on the property. Discussion continued.
Vice Mayor Wright discussed politics briefly and stated he shows up to support the
other members of the Commission. He stated his vote on Shaker Village was not
political and asserted he believes in one Tamarac and in improving the community.
He advised that after reflecting further, he would support a 60-day extension and
action steps to get rid of the eyesore.
Commissioner Daniel stated everyone was in agreement that it was an eyesore,
though she believes they got there because of the development across the street in
the Woodlands. She commented that the Commission was forgetting the reason
they were buying the property, that a community center was needed on the east side
of Tamarac. She stated this problem was not being resolved.
Commissioner Bolton stated they have heard over and over from residents asking
for something to be done in east Tamarac. He advised they had answered the call
with a renovation of Caporella Park and the eastside feasibility study. He stated the
Commission had overwhelmingly supported Shaker Village in the past, but
something had changed. He stated this was not his idea, but a City initiative, and
60 days was not enough because lawsuits take time. He discussed his priorities in
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December 13, 2023 — Regular Commission Meeting
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fighting for the residents of his district. He stated they needed a year to work out
the issue.
Vice Mayor Wright asked what happens if the contract expires. City Manager
Sucuoglu stated if the contract expires, it expires, and the next steps would depend
on the direction of the Commission.
Vice Mayor Wright stated he had asked City Attorney Ottinot at the Workshop
about a 90-day extension, because a year is a long time to continue to have the
eyesore. He asserted they could dig deeper and find ways to get creative and get rid
of the eyesore. He asked that the real estate attorney working with the City
Attorney's office be asked to come to a Commission meeting to answer questions.
City Attorney Ottinot stated he had requested 90 days when the lawsuit was initially
filed, but since that time he has checked the docket frequently and realized the case
was not moving fast, so additional time was needed in order to not lose the
significant work already done by staff.
Commissioner Villalobos advised that he believed eminent domain and the funds
from 13t' Floor would be a great place to start. He stated there were too many ifs.
He commented on the previous sale of the property that is now Fort Lauderdale
Executive Airport, and stated the City needs land.
Mayor Gomez noted her professional experience and understanding of the legal
issues involved. She stated her concerns are for the community, and discussed title
issues, reading from the condominium documents and explaining every title needed
to be searched and mortgage released. Mayor Gomez stated she agreed with the
suggestion by Commissioner Villalobos to ask 13t' Floor if they would be willing
to amend the restrictions on the funds to support Shaker Village rather than a
clubhouse so the community can determine what it needs to do, including taking
down the eyesore. She asserted whether to rebuild would then be up to the
community and discussed potential next steps for the HOA.
Mayor Gomez spoke against a one (1) year extension of the contract and asserted
that Broward County and City liens would continue to accrue. She suggested that
once the lawsuit is handled, if the Board wants to discuss a proper, transparent
process to transfer the property, that would be an option. She stated she was against
extending the contract because it would not solve the problems and noted that
eminent domain had been explored and abandoned because it was determined there
was no true public purpose.
Commissioner Daniel stated the Commission talks about caring, but it is just about
personal vendettas. She asserted if they cared about children on the east side or
people who wanted to play in a park, they would make the change. She stated she
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December 13, 2023 — Regular Commission Meeting
Page 10
had been saying all along that Tamarac needed a community center in the east, and
she was told Sabal Palms was too expensive.
Commissioner Daniel asserted this was a matter of what is right, and the
misinformation was appalling. She stated the City was just buying property and
someone on the Commission made it messy. She asked what happened to the
community center in this discussion and commented that there was support for a
$100 million City Hall just so they could sit in a better building.
Vice Mayor Wright offered a friendly amendment to extend the due diligence
period by 90 days rather than one (1) year.
Moved by Commissioner Villalobos; seconded by Vice Mayor Wright to approve
Resolution TR14068 as amended.
Mayor Gomez called for a recess at 9:32 p.m.
Mayor Gomez called the meeting to order at 9:47 p.m.
Motion Approved: 4-1.
Voting For: Mayor Gomez, Vice Mayor Wright, Commissioner Bolton, and
Commissioner Villalobos. Voting Against: Commissioner Daniel.
4.r. TR14064 - A Resolution of the City Commission of the City of Tamarac, Florida,
appointing seven (7) members to the Privatization Committee; providing for
conflicts; providing for severability; and providing for an effective date.
5. REGULAR AGENDA
Item 5a was heard prior to item 4q.
5.a. TR14058 - A Resolution of the City Commission of the City of Tamarac, Florida,
electing a Vice Mayor to serve a term of one year beginning December 13, 2023,
with no succession; providing for conflicts; providing for severability; and
providing for an effective date.
City Attorney Ottinot read the title for the record.
Moved by Commissioner Villalobos; seconded by Vice Mayor Bolton to approve
Resolution TR14058 as presented.
Mayor Gomez opened the floor to comments from the public.
1) Dr. Kate Johnson, Mainlands 4, Tamarac, stated this item was an example of the
politically motivated and self-serving way the Commission works. She discussed
the lack of commitment to a fair rotation process, and noted that when Vice Mayor
Bolton was voted in, he made a commitment to Commissioner Villalobos that he
would be Vice Mayor this year.
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December 13, 2023 — Regular Commission Meeting
Page 11
2) Patti Lynn, Mainlands 8, Tamarac, asserted this process had been disgusting and
disappointing, and Commissioners should think for themselves and work together.
She asked when the Commission would take a vote to remove the City Attorney,
as he does not work in the best interest of the City.
3) Stewart Webster, Versailles Gardens, stated that he looks and listens and sees a
total lack of respect from the City Attorney toward Mayor Gomez and the
Commission. He commented on life after the Commission and the reputations of
those on the dais.
4) Darcy Schiller, Kings Point, Tamarac, stated she concurred with Mr. Webster and
his comments regarding the City Attorney. She suggested a change so that
Commissioners would be required to serve as Commissioner for an entire year
before serving as Vice Mayor.
5) Ronald Wasserman, Shangri La, Tamarac, stated that as a long-time resident, he
had used the services of the City quite often, and appreciates the help numerous
people have given. He advised that he was disappointed in the City Attorney, and
felt he was not for Tamarac. He reminded the Commission and staff that they work
for the residents.
Mayor Gomez closed public participation.
Commissioner Villalobos echoed comments he had shared at the Workshop earlier
in the week, noting this is a ceremonial position. He stated the Commission is
always going to disagree, but there should be a process so that does not apply to the
selection of the Vice Mayor and there is an order.
Commissioner Villalobos nominated Commissioner Wright as Vice Mayor and
asked for unanimous support of the decision.
Commissioner Daniel clarified her comments at the December 11 Workshop and
stated they had been fair.
Vice Mayor Bolton stated if the narrative was true that he knew how others would
vote, he would not have to withhold his vote to hold it over people's heads. He
asserted both Commissioner Villalobos and Commissioner Wright are stellar
leaders and are trying to be collegiate. He asserted the selection of Vice Mayor in
Tamarac had always been political.
Commissioner Villalobos asked that the Commission agree to a process for
selection of the Vice Mayor in the future. City Clerk Dillon suggested the item be
placed on the agenda for a future Workshop. She noted the Vice Mayor is included
in the Charter, so a change would require a Charter amendment, and the next
Charter Review Committee was scheduled for 2027.
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December 13, 2023 — Regular Commission Meeting
Page 12
Commissioner Villalobos asked for clarification. City Attorney Ottinot stated the
rotation was not in the Charter, so the Commission could direct staff to bring it
forward separately.
Mayor Gomez sought and received consensus to place the discussion of a rotation
of the Vice Mayor position on the agenda for a future Workshop.
Moved by Commissioner Villalobos; seconded by Vice Mayor Bolton to approve
Resolution TR14058 naming Morey Wright Jr. as Vice Mayor.
Motion Approved: 5-0.
Voting For: Mayor Gomez, Vice Mayor Bolton, Commissioner Daniel,
Commissioner Villalobos, and Commissioner Wright. Voting Against: None.
5.b. TR14063 - A Resolution of the City Commission of the City of Tamarac, Florida,
authorizing the appropriate City Officials to execute an agreement with the
Federation of Public Employees, a Division of the National Federation of Public
and Private Employees affiliated with District 1 - MEBA (AFL-CIO) for the
period from October 1, 2023, through September 30, 2026; providing for conflicts;
providing for severability; and providing for an effective date.
City Attorney Ottinot read the title for the record.
Moved by Commissioner Villalobos; seconded by Vice Mayor Wright to approve
Resolution TR14063 as presented.
Mayor Gomez opened the floor to comments from the public, however there being
no one to speak, closed public participation.
Commissioner Villalobos clarified that the District 1 referenced in the title was not
the City of Tamarac district. Mayor Gomez clarified further.
Motion Approved: 5-0.
Voting For: Mayor Gomez, Vice Mayor Wright, Commissioner Bolton,
Commissioner Daniel, and Commissioner Villalobos. Voting Against: None.
5.c. TR14065 - A Resolution of the City Commission of the City of Tamarac, Florida,
authorizing the appropriate City Officials to apply for a Florida Communities
Trust (FCT), Florida Forever Program, Parks and Open Space Grant
Application, attached hereto as Exhibit "A", in an amount not to exceed $2.5
million, for reimbursement acquisition costs for the Shaker Village property;
agreeing to a minimum local match of 25%, not to exceed $750,000; providing for
conflicts; providing for severability; and providing for an effective date.
City Attorney Ottinot read the title for the record.
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December 13, 2023 — Regular Commission Meeting
Page 13
Moved by Commissioner Villalobos; seconded by Commissioner Bolton to
approve Resolution TR14065 as presented.
Mayor Gomez opened the floor to comments from the public, however there being
no one to speak, closed public participation.
Commissioner Villalobos asked staff to explain the grant and timeline. Tanya
Williams, Grants Administrator, provided a brief overview of the grant and stated
it allows for reimbursement for the cost of the Shaker Village property. She
reviewed the selection process and stated if selected, the City will have one (1) year
to complete the due diligence period and acquire the property, with the potential for
a one (1) year extension.
Mayor Gomez commented on the reference to condemnation in the agreement and
asked if the discussion of eminent domain would disqualify the City from receiving
the funds. Grants Administrator Williams advised the grant was conditional, and if
there were no proceedings toward eminent domain at the time of application, it
should not be a restriction. She added that acquisition is a requirement, so if the
purchase were to fall through, the City would not be eligible for the funds.
Discussion ensued briefly.
Mayor Gomez inquired as to whether the grant was transferable. Grants
Administrator Williams advised that the application would be specific to a site, and
Shaker Village was the identified project that fits the criteria.
Commissioner Villalobos asserted there would not be outdoor recreation at the
Shaker Village property. Grants Administrator Williams responded.
Commissioner Villalobos asked whether the funds from 13'h Floor would go to
Shaker Village in addition to the grant. Assistant City Manager Calloway explained
the grant application provides for a 25 percent minimum local match, and staff was
asking for authorization to use the $750,000 allocated as the required match.
Commissioner Villalobos inquired as to whether the grant would assist with the
construction costs. Assistant City Manager Calloway stated the grant was for a
maximum of $2.5 million for acquisition of the property and incidentals such as
closing costs and would not cover construction.
Mayor Gomez clarified that there were amenities on the site which were not part of
the discussion. She stated she believed the reality of the issues on title would keep
the City from receiving the grant. She noted she supports the City receiving funds
to do good things.
Motion Approved: 5-0.
Voting For: Mayor Gomez, Vice Mayor Wright, Commissioner Bolton,
Commissioner Daniel, and Commissioner Villalobos. Voting Against: None.
Minutes
December 13, 2023 — Regular Commission Meeting
6. ORDINANCE(S) — FIRST READING
Page 14
6.a. T02548 - An Ordinance of the City Commission of the City of Tamarac, Florida,
amending Chapter 2, of the City of Tamarac Code of Ordinances, entitled
Administration, specifically, Article IV, Division 3, entitled, "Human Resources,"
by creating Section 2-252 entitled "Screening of Employees, Appointees,
Contractors, and Vendors" for the purpose of establishing criminal history record
checks for certain employees, appointees, private contractors, employees of
private contractors and vendors in accordance with Section 166.0442, Florida
Statutes; providing for codification; providing for conflicts; providing for
severability; and providing for an effective date
City Attorney Ottinot read the title for the record.
Moved by Commissioner Villalobos; seconded by Vice Mayor Wright to approve
Ordinance T02548 on first reading.
There were no presentations and no discussion on the item by the Commission.
Motion Approved: 5-0.
Voting For: Mayor Gomez, Vice Mayor Wright, Commissioner Bolton,
Commissioner Daniel, and Commissioner Villalobos. Voting Against: None.
6.b. T02547 - An Ordinance of the City Commission of the City of Tamarac, Florida,
amending Chapter 10, Article 4 of the City of Tamarac Land Development Code,
entitled "Development and Design Standards" by amending specific development
and design standards for roadways, sidewalks, bicycle paths, drainage, parking,
waste water, storm water, potable water, and irrigation systems, consistent with
updated engineering standards; modifying dimensions of alleys, parking stalls,
and required paved rights of way, to provide for consistency with the City of
Tamarac Engineering Design and Processing manual; updating fire emergency
access requirements for guard houses with security locking mechanisms;
amending the City's right-of-way sign provisions to appropriately identify SR
869/Sawgrass Expressway and clarify the permitted location for the installation
of billboard signs and their distance separation from residential property; and
modifying the height of numerical building addresses on monument signs to
enhance visibility and comply with fire code safety standards; providing for
conflicts; providing for severability; providing for codification; and providing for
an effective date.
City Manager Sucuoglu asked that the item be rescheduled for a date to be
determined in the future.
Moved by Mayor Gomez; seconded by Commissioner Villalobos to table T02547
to a future Workshop.
Minutes
December 13, 2023 — Regular Commission Meeting
Motion Approved: 5-0.
Page 15
Voting For: Mayor Gomez, Vice Mayor Wright, Commissioner Bolton,
Commissioner Daniel, and Commissioner Villalobos. Voting Against: None.
7. ORDINANCE(S) — SECOND READING
7.a. T02544 - An Ordinance of the City Commission of the City of Tamarac, Florida
granting a one year extension, nunc pro tunc to March 9, 2024, by approval of the
first amendment to the amended and restated development agreement, attached
hereto as Exhibit "A", between the City of Tamarac, Pulte Home Corporation
("Pulte"), and Woodmont Country Club, Inc., for the development of property
located within the Woodmont plat, as recorded in Plat Book 88, page 20, of the
public records of Broward County, Florida, and authorizing the appropriate City
Officials to do all things necessary to effectuate the intent of this ordinance;
providing for codification; providing for conflicts; providing for severability; and
providing for an effective date.
City Attorney Ottinot read the title for the record.
Moved by Commissioner Villalobos; seconded by Vice Mayor Wright to adopt
Ordinance T02544.
Mayor Gomez opened the floor to comments from the public, however there being
no one to speak, closed public participation.
There were no presentations and no discussion on the item by the Commission.
Motion Approved: 4-1.
Voting For: Mayor Gomez, Vice Mayor Wright, Commissioner Bolton, and
Commissioner Daniel. Voting Against: Commissioner Villalobos
8. PUBLIC HEARING(S)
9. QUASI-JUDICIAL HEARING(S)
9.a. TB082 - Board Order approving/denying a Variance application requesting relief
from Section 10-4.10(E)(1) "Directional, Directory, Monument and Entrance
Wall Signs" of the City's Code of Ordinances for HCA Florida Woodmont
Hospital located at 7201 North University Drive, Tamarac, Florida 33321.
City Attorney Ottinot outlined the City's procedures regarding Quasi -Judicial
proceedings.
City Attorney Ottinot read the title for the record.
City Clerk Kimberly Dillon swore in those wishing to provide testimony.
Minutes
December 13, 2023 — Regular Commission Meeting
Page 16
Mayor Gomez asked the Commission to advise of any ex-parte disclosures. She
stated she is on the HCA Board of Trustees and was familiar with the application.
Moved by Commissioner Villalobos; seconded by Vice Mayor Wright to approve
TB082.
Cory Mead, CEO, and Piotr Gorecki, COO for HCA Woodmont, made a
presentation, which is on file in the City Clerk's Office.
Mayor Gomez opened the floor to comments from the public, however there being
no one to speak, closed public participation.
Commissioner Daniel stated she was happy to see the renovations and asked how
customer service issues would be addressed.
Commissioner Villalobos pointed out the question was not within the scope of the
item. City Attorney Ottinot advised this was a quasi-judicial item, but the rules did
not preclude asking other questions.
Mr. Mead stated they are always looking for opportunities to improve customer
care, and advised he would be happy to sit down with Commissioner Daniel and
discuss any concerns she and her constituents may have. Discussion continued.
Mayor Gomez stated she believed the signage was a great idea so people know
where the hospital is and can locate it in an emergency. She noted the sign would
be a great asset to the City and the hospital.
Motion Approved: 5-0.
Voting For: Mayor Gomez, Vice Mayor Wright, Commissioner Bolton,
Commissioner Daniel, and Commissioner Villalobos. Voting Against: None.
9.b. TB081 - Board Order approving/denying a Special Exception application to allow
for a nightclub with a minimum 140 ft. separation from the closest residentially
zoned property, in the MU-C (Mixed -Use Corridor) zoning district, pursuant to
the Tamarac Code of Ordinances for N Restaurant & Nightclub located at 5305
North State Road 7, Tamarac, Florida 33319.
City Attorney Ottinot read the title for the record.
City Clerk Kimberly Dillon swore in those wishing to provide testimony on items
9a and 9b.
Mayor Gomez asked the Commission to advise of any ex-parte disclosures. She
stated some of the witnesses on the item were neighbors, but there had been no
discussion of the application.
Daniel Aaronson, designated agent for the applicant, made a presentation, which is
on file in the City Clerk's Office.
Minutes
December 13, 2023 — Regular Commission Meeting
Page 17
Commissioner Villalobos asked Broward Sheriff's Office (BSO) Captain Jemeriah
Cooper if there had been any issues with the site. BSO Captain Cooper advised that
there had been no issues at all.
Commissioner Bolton commented that a nightclub was not the vision that he has
for District 1, and noted he believed the corridor could be improved. He stated that
given the work that had put into the site and the owner's setbacks due to illness, he
would support the application.
Commissioner Bolton and Mr. Aaronson discussed complaints under the previous
ownership briefly.
Mayor Gomez stated she respects the needs of the business and commented that
she had heard concerns from members of the community. She noted she understood
there were no noise complaints, but they also had not been open until 2 or 4 a.m.
She advised that nothing good happens between 2 and 4 a.m., and she would not be
supporting that part of the application. She agreed with Commissioner Bolton's
comments regarding the vision for the corridor and stated she did not believe the
distance to the nearest apartments was sufficient.
Mayor Gomez asked that the applicant respond to any customer complaints with
additional soundproofing and have security keep the noise and dancing in the
parking lot down late at night. Mr. Aaronson confirmed the applicant was amenable
to the request.
Mayor Gomez commented on the lighting improvements to the parking lot. She
asked staff for clarification on the restrictions on opening hours. Assistant City
Manager Calloway explained the parameters of the Special Exception and Special
Permit for extended hours briefly. She noted the Special Permit was an annual
renewal before the Commission. Discussion continued.
Commissioner Daniel asked what other businesses were open until 4 a.m. She noted
that if there was an annual renewal, she was open to giving them an opportunity.
Assistant City Manager Calloway responded.
Vice Mayor Wright asked for clarification on the business hours allowable.
Assistant City Manager Calloway explained.
Mayor Gomez inquired as to whether the 2 a.m. closing could be restricted to
certain days of the week. Assistant City Manager Calloway stated an additional
exception could be added if the applicant were amenable, but that was not how
other businesses were operating.
Moved by Commissioner Bolton; seconded by Vice Mayor Wright to approve
TBO81 with exceptions as outlined in the staff report.
Motion Approved: 5-0.
Minutes
December 13, 2023 — Regular Commission Meeting
Page 18
Voting For: Mayor Gomez, Vice Mayor Wright, Commissioner Bolton,
Commissioner Daniel, and Commissioner Villalobos. Voting Against: None.
9.c. TR14030 - A Resolution of the City Commission of the City of Tamarac, Florida,
approving the special extended hours permit for i9 Restaurant & Nightclub
located at 5305 North State Road 7, Tamarac, Florida, allowing alcohol sales and
consumption on -premises only from 2:00 a.m. to 4:00 a.m. on Thursdays, Fridays,
and Saturdays, in accordance with Section 3-4 of the City of Tamarac Code of
Ordinances ; providing for conflicts; providing for severability; and providing for
an effective date.
City Attorney Ottinot read the title for the record.
Commissioner Villalobos stated he shared some of the concerns regarding a 4 a.m.
closing, given that they had not yet been open to 2 a.m., but was considering the
fact that BSO had not had any issues and there was another business operating in
those hours.
Commissioner Bolton agreed there is a similar business in the plaza which goes to
4 a.m., so he did not have a problem with it, noting it was only for one (1) year.
Mayor Gomez stated she did not feel the City was the place for dancing until 4 a.m.
Discussion continued regarding the neighboring business.
Commissioner Villalobos suggested a 3 a.m. closing to support the business while
being careful about the hours.
Vice Mayor Wright stated he thinks that as Tamarac becomes younger, there should
be places for them to go. He noted the corridor was a good place for this type of
businesses, and he would support the extended hours.
Moved by Commissioner Villalobos; seconded by Vice Mayor Wright to approve
TR14030.
Motion Approved: 4-1.
Voting For: Vice Mayor Wright, Commissioner Bolton, Commissioner Daniel, and
Commissioner Villalobos. Voting Against: Mayor Gomez.
10. OTHER
10.a. Discussion and consensus to direct staff to prepare amendments to the City's
Standards of Conduct and Lobbying Activities Ordinances to provide for greater
transparency, decorum, and standards, to govern the Commission's ex-parte
communications with Applicants, Lobbyist and Developers.
Requested by Mayor Gomez
Mayor Gomez asked that the item be placed on the agenda for a future Workshop.
Minutes
December 13, 2023 — Regular Commission Meeting Page 19
ADJOURNMENT
There being nothing further to discuss, Mayor Gomez adjourned the meeting at 11:12 p.m.
Minutes transcribed by Crysta Parkinson, Prototype, Inc. and submitted by Kimberly Dillon, City
Clerk.
Kimberly Dillon, City Clerk
Michelle J. Gomez, Mayor
Note to the reader: The above signature is the City Clerk, of the City of Tamarac, Florida. If the
minutes you have received are not signed, or completed as indicated above, they are not the official
minutes of the Regular City Commission Meeting held Wednesday, December 13, 2023.
Pursuant to Chapter 286.0105, Florida Statutes, if a person decides to appeal any decision made
by the City Commission with respect to any matter considered at such meeting or hearing, he may
need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made which record includes the
testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is based.
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are a disabled person requiring any accommodations or assistance, please notify the City Clerk's
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