HomeMy WebLinkAbout2026-04-28 Regular City Commission Meeting Minutes MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING
DANIA BEACH CITY COMMISSION
TUESDAY, APRIL 28, 2026 - 7:00 P.M.
1. CALL TO ORDER/ROLL CALL
Mayor Davis called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.
Present:
Mayor Joyce L. Davis
Vice-Mayor Marco A. Salvino, Sr.
Commissioner Lori Lewellen
Commissioner Luis Rimoli
Commissioner A. J. Ryan IV
City Manager Ana M. Garcia, ICMA-CM
City Attorney Eve Boutsis
City Clerk Elora Riera, MMC
2. MOMENT OF SILENCE AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Mayor Davis called for a moment of silence followed by the Pledge of Allegiance to the United
States Flag.
City Attorney Boutsis read the statement of decorum.
3. PRESENTATIONS AND SPECIAL EVENT APPROVALS
3.1 Presentation to Chief Pellecer, Senior Leader Award - City Manager
City Manager Garcia presented an award to Fire Chief Pellecer and thanked him for his many
years of dedicated service.
3.2 Request for Proclamation Approval:
- Mental Health Awareness Month - May 2026 - Sponsored by Mayor Davis
- Water Reuse Week - May 17-23, 2026 - Sponsored by Mayor Davis
- National Safe Boating Week - May 16-22, 2026 - Sponsored by Mayor Davis
- Principal Michael V. Billins, Dania Elementary – National Principals’ Day – May
1, 2026 – Sponsored by Mayor Davis
Minutes of Regular Meeting
Dania Beach City Commission
Tuesday, April 28, 2026 – 7:00 p.m.
There was consensus to approve the proclamation requests.
4. PROCLAMATIONS
4.1 Turquoise Takeover Week — May 4-10, 2026 — Sponsored by Commissioner
Lewellen
Commissioner Lewellen read the proclamation.
4.2 Child Abuse Prevention Month — April 2026 — Sponsored by Commissioner Rimoli
Commissioner Rimoli read the proclamation.
4.3 Water Conservation Month — April 2026 — Sponsored by Mayor Davis
Mayor Davis read the proclamation.
5. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS
5.1 City Manager
City Manager Garcia presented her administrative report and touched on the following:
- Introduction of new Public Services Director Oscar Vasquez
- Take Your Child to Work Day Event
- Arbor Day Tree Giveaway
- Earth Day Beach Cleanup
- Police and Fire Pension Contribution
- Marketing and Communication to the community regarding city events and facilities
- Procurement Training for senior leaders
- Summer camp
- Chester Byrd Park in full design mode
- Lucky Fish lighting
- Appreciation to city staff
5.2 City Attorney
City Attorney Boutsis commented on the bill update she provided to the Commission.
5.3 City Clerk - Reminders
City Clerk Riera reminded the Commission of the following upcoming meetings:
- May 12, 2026 CRA Board Meeting - 6 p.m.
- May 12, 2026 City Commission Meeting - 7 p.m.
- May 26, 2026 City Commission Meeting - 7 p.m.
6. PUBLIC SAFETY REPORTS
Minutes of Regular Meeting
Dania Beach City Commission
Tuesday, April 28, 2026 – 7:00 p.m.
Captain Tarala reported the unexpected passing of Lieutenant Taji Parrish and shared upcoming
memorial service information. He also highlighted a recent meeting with local religious leaders
to discuss safety and community needs, noting appreciation for the city’s support and that
members feel safe in Dania Beach. Additionally, he provided public safety updates, including
narcotics arrests near Chester Byrd Park, arrests tied to a stolen vehicle and armed burglaries
through the city’s license plate reader program, and an arrest during homeless outreach involving
ordinance violations and resisting arrest.
Fire Chief Pellecer reported on fire and medical calls received over the last month, advanced
cardiac life support training and basic life support training for fire inspectors, and hurricane
preparedness. He urged residents to begin preparing now before the arrival of hurricane season
on June 1st.
7. CITIZENS’ COMMENTS
The following spoke under citizen’s comments:
- Kayri Pozo – 75 Park Ave. East
- William Jones – 75 Park Ave.
- Robert Kirchgraber – 2725 Treasure Cove Circle
- Dr. Nancy Greenbarg – 337 SE 7th Street
- Shawn DeRosa – 408 SE 5th Street
8. CONSENT AGENDA
Commissioner Lewellen made a motion to approve the consent agenda minus item 8.8. The
motion was seconded by Commissioner Rimoli which carried unanimously on voice vote.
8.1 Minutes: April 14, 2026 City Commission Meeting Minutes
Approved under consent agenda.
8.2 Travel Requests: None.
8.3 RESOLUTION NO. 2025-____
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF DANIA BEACH,
FLORIDA, AUTHORIZING APPROVAL OF DEDUCTIVE CHANGE ORDER NO. 1 TO
THE CONTRACT WITH VEIT NATIONAL CORPORATION FOR THE SANITARY
SEWER INFLOW AND INFILTRATION (I&I) PROJECT; REDUCING THE CONTRACT
AMOUNT; PROVIDING FOR CONFLICTS; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE
DATE. (Public Services)
Approved under consent agenda.
8.4 RESOLUTION NO. 2025-____
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF DANIA BEACH,
FLORIDA, AUTHORIZING THE PROPER CITY OFFICIALS TO EXECUTE A FIRST
Minutes of Regular Meeting
Dania Beach City Commission
Tuesday, April 28, 2026 – 7:00 p.m.
AMENDMENT TO THE AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF DANIA BEACH AND
THE BROWARD SHERIFF’S OFFICE, FOR MEDICAL, FIRE PROTECTION AND FIRE
PREVENTION SERVICES IN ORDER TO REDUCE THE AMOUNT OF FIRE
INSPECTORS; PROVIDING FOR CONFLICTS; FURTHER, PROVIDING FOR AN
EFFECTIVE DATE. (City Manager)
Approved under consent agenda.
8.5 RESOLUTION NO. 2026-_____
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF DANIA BEACH,
FLORIDA, AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION OF A FIRST AMENDMENT TO THE
AGREEMENT WITH MAC’S TOWING SERVICES, INC., MODIFYING THE INSURANCE
REQUIREMENTS; PROVIDING FOR CONFLICTS; FURTHER, PROVIDING FOR AN
EFFECTIVE DATE. (City Attorney)
Approved under consent agenda.
8.6 RESOLUTION NO. 2026-_____
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF DANIA BEACH,
FLORIDA, APPROVING THE REALLOCATION OF FUNDING FROM THE CW THOMAS
PARK IMPROVEMENTS BUDGET TO THE PJ MELI AQUATIC COMPLEX
IMPROVEMENTS BUDGET TO COVER THE COST OF DRC REVIEW OF THE DESIGN
IN THE AMOUNT OF FOURTEEN THOUSAND ONE HUNDRED AND TWENTY
DOLLARS ($14,120.00); PROVIDING FOR CONFLICTS; FURTHER, PROVIDING FOR AN
EFFECTIVE DATE. (Parks and Recreation)
Approved under consent agenda.
8.7 Approval to Reschedule September Commission Meeting Dates for Budget Hearings
- City Clerk
Approved under consent agenda.
8.8 RESOLUTION NO. 2026-____
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF DANIA BEACH,
FLORIDA, AUTHORIZING A THIRD AMENDMENT TO THE LICENSE AGREEMENT
WITH RITA CROCKETT BEACH SPORTS ACADEMY (RCBSA) TO MODIFY THE
PAYMENT TERMS; PROVIDING FOR CONFLICTS; FURTHER, PROVIDING FOR AN
EFFECTIVE DATE. (Parks and Recreation)
City Attorney Boutsis read the title of the resolution.
Deputy City Manager Sosa-Cruz provided an explanation of the amendment and clarified that
the $250,000.00 amount is not changing.
Minutes of Regular Meeting
Dania Beach City Commission
Tuesday, April 28, 2026 – 7:00 p.m.
Vice Mayor Salvino made a motion to approve the item. The motion was seconded by
Commissioner Lewellen which carried unanimously on voice vote.
9. BIDS AND REQUESTS FOR PROPOSALS
None.
10. QUASI-JUDICIAL HEARINGS
10.1 RESOLUTION NO. 2026-____
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF DANIA BEACH,
FLORIDA, APPROVING THE SITE PLAN (SP-035-25) AND MINOR DEVIATION (OT-017-
26) FOR THE APPLICANT DANIA LIVE 1748 II, LLC, FOR THE PROPERTIES LOCATED
AT 1730-1766 POINTE BLVD, 1731-1757 POINTE BLVD, 101 BRYAN RD AND N
COMPASS WAY, WITHIN THE CITY OF DANIA BEACH, FLORIDA PROVIDING FOR
CONFLICTS; FURTHER, PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. (Community
Development)
City Attorney Boutsis read the title of the resolution and swore in anyone wishing to testify on
the item and asked for any disclosures from the Commission and there were none.
Planning and Zoning Manager Viviana Batista introduced the item.
Mayor Davis stated that this is a public hearing and opened the floor to public comments and
there were none.
Commissioner Lewellen inquired about parking and Planning and Zoning Manager Viviana
Batista responded that parking calculations were provided and they met the required criteria for
the garage and on North Compass Way. The garage will supply the parking needs for both
residential and commercial uses.
Commissioner Rimoli raised concerns about the parking and asked whether the new buildings
would include any on-site parking, noting that parking in the area is already difficult. He
questioned how existing parking could accommodate both residents and commercial uses,
specifically asking how many parking spaces would be reserved for visitors, customers, and the
public in addition to spaces allocated to residents.
Liz Somerstein from Dennis Mele’s office responded that there will be 245 parking spaces
dedicated to residential use. Parking is calculated on a citywide basis for Dania Pointe, and after
accounting for both residential and commercial demand, the development is projected to result in
391 extra parking spaces throughout Dania Pointe. The development will have the dedicated
space for residential parking, in addition to the increased parking that is being added along
Compass Road and as well as the remaining parking spaces that are available in Dania Pointe. A
parking demand study was conducted, the parking and amount of space required under city code
were reviewed and they met the guidelines and exceeded what was needed in Dania Pointe.
Mayor Davis asked Ms. Somerstein if there was anything else she would like to add and Ms.
Somerstein stated that the applicant agreed with 16 of the 17 proposed conditions of approval but
Minutes of Regular Meeting
Dania Beach City Commission
Tuesday, April 28, 2026 – 7:00 p.m.
requested modifications to Condition No. 3 regarding LEED certification. She explained that
obtaining formal LEED certification before issuance of the certificate of occupancy is not
feasible because construction must be completed and documentation submitted first. She
requested that the condition be revised to allow submission of the certificate of occupancy as
soon as it is received. She also asked that the condition requires pursuit of LEED certification,
rather than specifically LEED Gold, since certification standards can change and the project
could potentially qualify for a lower level such as Silver despite good-faith efforts to achieve
Gold.
City Attorney Boutsis asked staff to identify revisions made in the updated resolution and to
comment on whether staff supported the applicant’s requested revision to Condition 10.3.
Deputy Director of Community Development Corinne Lajoie responded that staff was
comfortable with the applicant not being required to achieve LEED Gold status and proposed
that the applicant submit scoring and ranking documentation before the certificate of occupancy
to demonstrate progress toward certification. She agreed that obtaining the certification could
happen after the certificate of occupancy is issued.
Commissioner Lewellen made a motion to approve the item. The motion was seconded by
Vice Mayor Salvino which carried unanimously on voice vote.
10.2 RESOLUTION NO. 2026-____
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF DANIA BEACH,
FLORIDA, APPROVING THE SITE PLAN MODIFICATION (SP-022-20MOD3),
SUBMITTED 2750 GRIFFIN HOLDINGS LLLP, A FLORIDA LIMITED LIABILITY
LIMITED PARTNERSHIP AND 2700 GRIFFIN HOLDINGS LLLP, A FLORIDA LIMITED
LIABILITY LIMITED PARTNERSHIP, FOR PROPERTIES LOCATED AT 2750 GRIFFIN
ROAD, 4901 SW 27 TERRACE AND 4880 SW 28 AVENUE IN THE CITY OF DANIA
BEACH, FLORIDA; PROVIDING FOR CONFLICTS; FURTHER, PROVIDING FOR AN
EFFECTIVE DATE.(Community Development)
The Commission recessed at 8:34 p.m. for 5 minutes. The meeting was reconvened at 8:40 p.m.
This item was taken with item 12.2.
Commissioner Lewellen made a motion to approve the item with the amendments as stated.
The motion was seconded by Commissioner Rimoli which carried 4-1 with Commissioner
Lewellen, Commissioner Rimoli, Commissioner Ryan and Vice Mayor Salvino voting yes
and Mayor Davis voting no.
11. FIRST READING ORDINANCES
None.
12. SECOND READING ORDINANCES
12.1 ORDINANCE NO. 2026-_____
Minutes of Regular Meeting
Dania Beach City Commission
Tuesday, April 28, 2026 – 7:00 p.m.
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF DANIA BEACH,
FLORIDA, AMENDING CHAPTER 28 “LAND DEVELOPMENT CODE”; ARTICLE 110,
ENTITLED “USE REGULATIONS FOR COMMERCIAL AND MIXED-USE DISTRICTS”,
AT SECTION 110-20 ENTITLED “LIST OF PERMITTED, SPECIAL EXCEPTION AND
PROHIBITED USES” TO ELIMINATE MIXED-USE DISTRICTS FROM THE TABLE;
ALSO AMENDING SECTION 110-190, ENTITLED “USES SUBJECT TO MINIMUM
SEPARATION DISTANCES” TO INCLUDE KAVA AND VAPE SALES DISTANCE
REQUIREMENTS; AND AMENDING SUBPART 1, ENTITLED “COMMUNITY
REDEVELOPMENT AREA (CRA) FORM-BASED ZONING DISTRICTS”, ARTICLE 302,
ENTITLED “DETAILED USE REGULATIONS”, AT SECTION 302-10, ENTITLED
“PERMITTED, SPECIAL EXCEPTION AND PROHIBITED USES” IN ORDER TO
ESTABLISH ONE PERMITTED USE TABLE FOR THE CRA FORM-BASED ZONING
DISTRICTS; PROVIDING FOR CODIFICATION, PROVIDING FOR CONFLICTS;
PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; AND FURTHER, PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE
DATE. (Community Development)
City Attorney Boutsis read the title of the ordinance.
Deputy Director of Community Development Corinne Lajoie introduced the item.
Mayor Davis stated that this is a public hearing and opened the floor to public comments and
there were none.
Commissioner Llewellen questioned if the issue regarding restaurants has been addressed and
Deputy Director Lajoie responded that she was correct in that, within the CRA, a rule allowing
reduced distance separation applies when businesses serve food. However, outside the CRA, any
establishment selling alcohol, including restaurants, must still follow a 1,000-foot separation
requirement. In response to concerns raised by the Commission during the first reading, they are
proposing a text amendment to fix the issue, which they plan to bring forward in June.
Commissioner Lewellen made a motion to approve the item. The motion was seconded by
Vice Mayor Salvino which carried 5-0 on roll call vote.
12.2 ORDINANCE NO. 2026-_____
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF DANIA BEACH,
FLORIDA, APPROVING THE APPLICATION REQUEST (RZ-034-24, MADE BY ROD A.
FEINER, ESQ., ON BEHALF OF 2700 GRIFFIN HOLDINGS LLLP, A FLORIDA LIMITED
LIABILITY LIMITED PARTNERSHIP FOR PROPERTIES GENERALLY LOCATED AT
4901 SW 27th TERRACE AND 4880 SW 28th AVENUE IN THE CITY OF DANIA BEACH,
FLORIDA, AS LEGALLY DESCRIBED IN EXHIBIT “A,” A COPY OF WHICH IS
ATTACHED TO THIS ORDINANCE; TO REZONE THE PROPERTIES FROM TWO-
FAMILY RESIDENTIAL DISTRICT (RD-8000) AND SINGLE-FAMILY 6000
RESIDENTIAL (RS-6000) TO PLANNED RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT DISTRICT
(PRD-1), SUBJECT TO CERTAIN RESTRICTIONS; PROVIDING FOR CONFLICTS;
PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; AND FURTHER, PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE
DATE. (Community Development)
This item was taken with item 10.2.
Minutes of Regular Meeting
Dania Beach City Commission
Tuesday, April 28, 2026 – 7:00 p.m.
City Attorney Boutsis read the title of the resolution and swore in anyone wishing to testify on
the item and asked for any disclosures from the Commission. Mayor Davis commented that she
had communications with the residents and can remain impartial, Commissioner Lewellen
commented that she had communications with the residents and the developer’s representative
and can remain impartial, and Commissioner Ryan commented that he had communications with
residents and can remain impartial.
Deputy Director of Community Development Corinne Lajoie introduced the item.
Attorney Rod Feiner representing the applicant spoke and stated that the applicant agreed to all
of the conditions of approval. He explained that the revised site plan was substantially modified
in response to resident concerns, including relocating the pool, adding 18 on-site parking spaces,
increasing landscaping buffers, preserving trees, and addressing lighting to prevent spillover onto
neighboring properties. He also outlined additional voluntary measures, including private trash
collection for the clubhouse, installation of bollards to prevent illegal parking, directional
signage to reduce traffic confusion, and installation of more mature landscaping for enhanced
buffering. He stated the project adds amenities only, with no new residential units or additional
traffic generation.
Mayor Davis opened the floor for public comments and the following spoke:
- Alina Yllanes – 4937 SW 27th Terr.
- Chandi Chisti – 5105 SW 27th Terr.
- Kevin P. Finger – 5117 SW 28th Ave.
- Jennifer Stewart – 4891 SW 28th Ave.
- Kirsty Forgie – 5111 SW 27th Terr.
- Nancy Greenbarg – 337 SE 7th St.
- Colman Ryan – 348 S Federal Hwy.
- Dr. Nancy Greenbarg – 337 SE 7th Street
- Robert Kirchgraber – 2725 Treasure Cove Dr.
Commissioner Rimoli expressed concern that landscaping alone along 27th Terrace would not
prevent people from parking nearby and walking through the vegetation. He suggested adding a
chain-link fence as proposed by a resident to better restrict access and also asked whether
lighting could be dimmed.
Attorney Feiner agreed to the addition of a black vinyl chain-link fence with landscaping along
27th Terrace and stated that light shields could be added to direct lighting onto the property and
reduce glare.
Commissioner Lewellen questioned enforcement of conditions and City Attorney Boutsis
confirmed that all conditions of approval must be satisfied before permits or a certificate of
occupancy could be issued. She spoke about drainage concerns in the neighborhood, project
signage, and prior public engagement. She noted that many neighborhood concerns appeared
related to the existing building rather than the proposed amenities and acknowledged that
previous community meetings resulted in project modifications.
Minutes of Regular Meeting
Dania Beach City Commission
Tuesday, April 28, 2026 – 7:00 p.m.
Attorney Feiner responded that they would work with staff regarding signage and explained that
drainage issues would be addressed through engineering review and confirmed the project had
undergone extensive prior public outreach and revisions.
Commissioner Ryan asked for clarification regarding tree preservation and mitigation, zoning
limitations, whether a place of worship would be permitted, and whether rezoning had previously
been considered while code violations existed on a property.
Attorney Feiner explained that tree relocation is overseen by both the project arborist and the city
arborist, following required procedures and discussed which trees would remain, be relocated or
removed.
Deputy Director Lajoie confirmed from the landscape plan that 12 trees would remain, including
six live oaks, with a sea grape being relocated and identified the trees proposed for removal.
Commissioner Ryan asked whether the proposed zoning would permit a place of worship and
sought clarification on the distinction between a prayer circle and a formal house of worship. He
also questioned whether rezoning had previously been approved while unresolved code
violations existed on a property.
Deputy Director Lajoie clarified that PRD zoning does not permit houses of worship as a
primary use and explained that the site plan identifies the structure as a clubhouse, and a formal
place of worship would violate the approved site plan.
Attorney Feiner stated that occasional prayer gatherings may occur at the clubhouse but that it is
not intended to function as a synagogue or formal house of worship. He explained there are no
membership fees are charged and that the primary use would be as a clubhouse primarily serving
the pool.
Deputy Director Lajoie noted that the city has previously approved variances or site plan
modifications while code violations existed if the approvals would allow the violations to be
cured, though not specifically in the context of rezoning.
Mayor Davis noted that the videos and photos presented show that people from the community
are regularly visiting the clubhouse, which appears to violate the approved site plan. There is a
flyer advertising a $36 charge, suggesting that money is being exchanged for events or dinners at
the clubhouse. Combined with the high amount of traffic and parking issues documented by
residents. It is obvious regular events are taking place. She expressed concern that these activities
are being described as something else, despite clear evidence to the contrary.
Attorney Feiner responded that the property owner instructed the rabbi not to charge fees, sent
cease-and-desist letters to websites advertising the property as a worship venue, and posted
notices stating the property is not a formal house of worship. Added that future site changes,
including additional parking and removal of access points, would help address neighborhood
concerns. He added that if violations continue, legal action or revocation of access privileges
could occur.
Vice Mayor Salvino said the proposed plans generally appear acceptable, but emphasized
ongoing public trust concerns due to prior code and compliance issues. He questioned whether
Minutes of Regular Meeting
Dania Beach City Commission
Tuesday, April 28, 2026 – 7:00 p.m.
the clubhouse will function as a true communal amenity if bedrooms remain and raised concerns
about potential conflicts over use of the space, parking enforcement, and prior operational issues.
He supported allowing after-the-fact permitting for the fence rather than requiring removal and
showed support for the developer and project overall but stressed that future violations would be
aggressively enforced by the City.
Attorney Feiner explained the rear area improvements are intended to provide tenant amenities
and additional restaurant parking to reduce street parking impacts. He discussed interior
renovations and agreed they would get rid of the bedrooms. He stated all residents would have
equal access to the facility and property management would oversee operations. He
acknowledged concerns raised by the Commission and residents and committed to relaying them
to the developer. He explained the fence was installed after hurricane damage as a buffer before
permits were finalized.
Mayor Davis agreed that the project has potential and could become a positive development but
expressed concern over continued mistrust between residents and the developer. She noted the
developer had previously demonstrated greater collaboration and responsiveness on earlier
projects. She advised that residents fear losing leverage once approvals are granted and
questioned whether promised operational changes would actually be enforced. She commented
that the process feels rushed and suggested the developer demonstrate compliance and
trustworthiness before moving forward.
City Attorney Boutsis provided the legal definition of a “place of worship,” stating it must be a
building or structure owned or used by a religious organization primarily for worship, religious
training, or related educational purposes, including accessory uses such as daycare and further
clarified that worship must be the primary use of the property.
Vice Mayor Salvino made a motion to approve the item. The motion was seconded by
Commissioner Lewellen which carried 3-2 on roll call vote with Commissioner Lewellen,
Commissioner Rimoli, and Vice Mayor Salvino voting yes and Commissioner Ryan and
Mayor Davis voting no.
12.3 ORDINANCE NO. 2026-_____
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF DANIA BEACH,
FLORIDA, TO AMEND CHAPTER 2, ENTITLED “ADMINISTRATION”, OF THE CITY’S
CODE OF ORDINANCES; TO CREATE ARTICLE XII, ENTITLED “CONFLICT OF
INTEREST AND CODE OF ETHICS”; TO CREATE SECTION 2-300 ENTITLED
“CONFLICT OF INTEREST AND CODE OF ETHICS ORDINANCE”; PROVIDING FOR
CONFLICTS; CODIFICATION; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. (Sponsored
by Commissioner Lewellen)
City Attorney Boutsis read the title of the ordinance.
Mayor Davis stated that this is a public hearing and opened the floor to public comments and
there were none.
Vice Mayor Salvino made a motion to approve the item. The motion was seconded by
Commissioner Lewellen which carried unanimously on voice vote.
Minutes of Regular Meeting
Dania Beach City Commission
Tuesday, April 28, 2026 – 7:00 p.m.
13. DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION
13.1 Sponsor — Broward County PBA, Officer of the Year Banquet — Sponsored by
Commissioner Ryan
Commissioner Ryan introduced the item.
Chief Tarala confirmed that it will be awarded to a Dania Beach officer.
There was consensus from the Commission for $100.00 from each Commissioner’s personal
contingency accounts.
13.2 RESOLUTION NO. 2026-_____
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF DANIA BEACH,
FLORIDA, AUTHORIZING, AFTER PUBLIC HEARING, THE CITY COMMISSION TO
ENTER INTO AN EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT WITH THE CITY MANAGER,
CANDIDO SOSA-CRUZ; PROVIDING FOR CONFLICTS; FURTHER, PROVIDING FOR
AN EFFECTIVE DATE. (City Attorney)
City Attorney Boutsis read the title of the resolution.
Mayor Davis stated that this is a public hearing and opened the floor to public comments and
there were none.
Mayor Davis commented that overall, she supports the city manager’s contract and expresses
confidence in Candido’s ability to succeed in the role. However, she raises a specific concern
with Section Six of the contract regarding performance evaluations and would like mandatory,
documented annual evaluations for the city manager and city attorney to align with the contract
term for accountability and transparency.
Commissioner Lewellen asked Chief Human Resources Officer Linda Gonzalez for her expertise
on evaluations and annual evaluations at the executive level. Chief Human Resources Officer
Linda Gonzalez responded that executive evaluations are often handled differently, and the
concept of evaluations is fluid and has changed over time. Best practice favors continuous
feedback and regular communication instead of formal annual reviews. Yearly evaluations can
be ineffective or biased, and ongoing conversations about performance are a better way to keep
executives informed, accountable, and motivated.
Each commissioner spoke on the topic of executive evaluations, discussing whether ongoing
day-to-day feedback or formal annual reviews are the most effective approach for accountability,
performance management, and good governance. The discussion reflected differing perspectives
on balancing continuous communication with the value of documented evaluations and
transparency.
Vice Mayor Salvino made a motion to approve the item. The motion was seconded by
Commissioner Lewellen which carried 5-0 on roll call vote.
Minutes of Regular Meeting
Dania Beach City Commission
Tuesday, April 28, 2026 – 7:00 p.m.
13.3 RESOLUTION NO. 2026-_____
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF DANIA BEACH,
FLORIDA, TO SELECT AN ARTIST AND AUTHORIZATION TO PROCEED WITH TOP
THREE (3) ARTISTS FOR THE AMERICA 250 CITY ART POSTER PROJECT AND
MURAL AT 401 STIRLING ROAD; PROVIDING FOR CONFLICTS; FURTHER,
PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
City Attorney Boutsis read the title of the resolution.
Director of Community Development Eleanor Norena introduced the item and the Commission
conferred regarding the designs.
Vice Mayor Salvino and Commissioner Lewellen selected design #3.
Commissioner Ryan, Commissioner Rimoli and Mayor Davis selected design #1.
There was Commission consensus for design #1 for the poster and mural.
13.4 Opportunity Zone Designation - Sponsored by Mayor Davis
Mayor Davis explained that she received correspondence from Broward County Commissioner
Beam Furr regarding a time-sensitive opportunity for Dania Beach to participate in the
Opportunity Zone designation process and introduced the item for commission consideration.
Commissioner Ryan made a motion to approve the item. The motion was seconded by
Commissioner Rimoli which carried unanimously on voice vote.
14. APPOINTMENTS
14.1 Board Appointments:
- Dania Beach Housing Authority Board - Mayor Davis
- Marine Advisory Board - Commissioner Rimoli
Mayor Davis had no appointment to the Dania Beach Housing Authority Board.
Commissioner Rimoli appointed Rick Buckner to the Marine Advisory Board. There was
consensus from the Commission.
City Clerk Riera noted there have been several absences on the Education Advisory Board and
the board has been unable to establish quorum for many months. The Commission was provided
with the board attendance for the period of October 2025 through April 2026.
Commissioner Ryan removed Abby Martinez for non-attendance and appointed Dale Miller to
the board.
Vice Mayor Salvino removed Samantha Bostwick for non-attendance and appointed Serena
Bravo to the board.
Minutes of Regular Meeting
Dania Beach City Commission
Tuesday, April 28, 2026 – 7:00 p.m.
Commissioner Lewellen removed Lorraine Reed for non-attendance and appointed Diana
Fahmie to the board.
There was consensus from the Commission for all three appointments.
15. COMMISSION COMMENTS
15.1 Commissioner Lewellen
Commissioner Lewellen noted that her contact from Lung Force was not present due to a death
in the family, but she will be seeing her at a future event and will present the proclamation to her
then. She addressed the public and explained that public comment periods are intended for
residents to express concerns, provide feedback, or offer compliments, but are not designed for
back-and-forth debate between the Commission and the public. She noted that commissioners
often address concerns outside meetings through calls, emails, and separate discussions. She
cautioned the public about misinformation circulating online and on social media, encouraging
residents to verify claims by watching meetings, attending in person, or contacting city officials
directly. She emphasized the importance of communication and clarification to maintain a
positive relationship between the city and residents.
15.2 Commissioner Rimoli
Commissioner Rimoli echoed Commissioner Lewellen’s remarks regarding misinformation on
social media, noting that inaccurate online posts about a purportedly approved 20-story building
caused unnecessary public concern. He encouraged residents to contact commissioners directly
for accurate information and stated that no major project would be approved without public input
and the required public process.
He reported attending the TransitFORWARD 2040 Vision meeting conducted by Bean Furr,
where South Florida transportation challenges and potential solutions such as light rail and
expanded transit services were discussed. He encouraged everyone to go to Broward.org and
review the presentation and he thanked Beam Furr for taking the lead on such an important issue.
15.3 Commissioner Ryan
Commissioner Ryan said it is surreal that this is City Manager’s second to last meeting and
wished her well in her future endeavors. He commented that he is looking forward to the future,
noting the City is in good hands. He expressed appreciation to those present and staff.
15.4 Vice-Mayor Salvino
Vice Mayor Salvino had no comments.
15.5 Mayor Davis
Mayor Davis thanked residents, volunteers and staff for a highly successful Earth Day event. She
spoke of the upcoming Earth Day Art Contest and highlighted attendance at the United Way of
Broward County gala, where city representatives filled a table in support of the organization. She
Minutes of Regular Meeting
Dania Beach City Commission
Tuesday, April 28, 2026 – 7:00 p.m.
expressed appreciation to those who participated and encouraged continued community
collaboration and achievement of shared goals.
16. ADJOURNMENT
Mayor Davis adjourned the meeting at 10:57 p.m.
ATTEST: CITY OF DANIA BEACH
ELORA RIERA, MMC JOYCE L. DAVIS
CITY CLERK MAYOR
Approved:
May 26th 2026