HomeMy WebLinkAbout20200526 Virtual Regular Meeting MINUTES OF VIRTUAL REGULAR MEETING
DANIA BEACH CITY COMMISSION
TUESDAY, MAY 26, 2020 - 7:00 P.M.
1. Call to Order/Roll Call
Mayor Lewellen called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.
Present:
Mayor: Lori Lewellen
Vice-Mayor: Lauren Odman
Commissioners: Chickie Brandimarte
Bill Harris
Tamara James
City Manager: Ana M. Garcia, ICMA-CM
City Attorney: Thomas Ansbro
City Clerk: Thomas Schneider
2. Moment of Silence and Pledge of Allegiance
Mayor Lewellen called for a moment of silence after the Pledge of Allegiance to the United
States Flag.
Mayor Lewellen asked for an update on the flooding issues in the City.
Fernando Rodriguez, Director of Public Services, noted the southeast area of the City has
experienced flooding in the last few days as a result of the very heavy rainfall. He also reported
on regional flooding in South Florida, which has been a tri-county coastal issue. He added
during this time, our pumps in the southeast area have been functioning properly; it is difficult
when there is so much rainfall. He gave an update on Phase II of the Southeast Drainage Project;
construction should start early next year.
3. Presentations and Special Event Approvals
3.1 Budget amendment/full-time positions adjustment (City Manager &Finance)
City Manager Garcia spoke of offsetting COVID expenditures and the CARES Act. The
Finance Director and she have been going through the entire budget. There are opportunities for
savings such as unspent training dollars and two positions that have not been filled. We are
looking at opportunities to generate money, such as grants, and ways of saving money.
Frank DiPaolo, Director of Finance, addressed the first of two positions that have not been filled,
the I.T. Manager position that reports to the Finance Department. It has been determined a lot of
the software systems can be switched over to a host model so we are not bearing administrative
cost. Outsourcing some software services to the Cloud eliminates the need for the I.T. Manager
and saves the City revenue. I.T. systems would be more resilient by outsourcing and increasing
contractual services. He also addressed the second position, the Administrative Assistant to the
City Commission, which has not yet been filled, and recommended both position not be filled.
Vice-Mayor Odman questioned the elimination of the I.T. Manager position.
Finance Director DiPaolo explained how the position would not be needed with moving things to
the Cloud where all data would be stored, archived and easily accessible.
Vice-Mayor Odman noted she is worried; this whole time, I.T. Systems Specialist Terrazas has
done a phenomenal job. It does not seem the I.T. function is a one-person job at all. This seems
like a big mistake to say one person is going to handle all of the I.T. issues for a municipality and
she would not support it.
Commissioner James agreed; we need more hands on. She asked what the cost would be for
contracting the vendor, how much has been spent on them so far, and the exact cost for one fiscal
year.
Finance Director DiPaolo said we have used LAN Infotech since 2010; we already have a
relationship with them. They have a number of experts we could utilize; they would provide
both administrative oversight and the management side, which would allow I.T. Systems
Specialist Terrazas to be more of an I.T. Administrator. He estimated the cost at approximately
$25,000.00 for next year; New World System would be a $30,000.00 increase and fully hosting
would be $87,000.00.
Commissioner James disagreed with the recommendation to cut the I.T. Manager position. Out
of all the positions created, she questioned why the Commission assistant would be cut; this
position was a directive of the Commission. She asked why other positions were not looked at to
be cut.
City Manager Garcia noted the City team is very lean; we are operating in 2020 with
$350,000.00 less. We are trying to find savings due to COVID-19; if the Commission does not
wish to do this, we can shift gears. At the end of the day, she will give the Commission a
balanced budget; we are just trying to find ways to save money.
Mayor Lewellen asked if we would still need to outsource if an I.T. Manager was hired.
Finance Director DiPaolo responded outsourcing helps with the administrative management as
well as provides disaster recovery, which the City does not currently have. Hosting in the Cloud
enables access from anywhere and disaster recovery is critical regardless of hiring for the
position.
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Dania Beach City Commission
Tuesday,May 26,2020—7:00 p.m.
Mayor Lewellen asked about the cost of hiring an I.T. Manager and also having the outsourcing.
Finance Director DiPaolo responded New World is an additional $30,000.00, Office 365 is
$25,000.00 per year and the I.T. Manager is budgeted at $156,000.00.
Commissioner James asked what services they provide with the current contract for$57,000.00.
Finance Director DiPaolo explained the support LAN Infotech already provides and investing
more in I.T. Systems Specialist Terrazas' professional development. The idea was to move
Level 1 issues away from her so she can be more of an administrator, allowing growth with the
City. He felt that with LAN Infotech, I.T. Systems Specialist Terrazas built up, and his
expertise,the plan would work out well.
Commissioner James noted she is not in support of taking away either of the positions.
Mayor Lewellen suggested the Commission could revisit this when it comes time for budgeting.
3.2 . Special Event request from Mayhem Ranch LLC for their Bass Pro Social Distance
Drive-thru Animal Park event to be held at 200 Gulfstream Way on May 28-31, 2020
from 10:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. (Community Development)
Eleanor Norena, Director of Community Development, noted the applicant has provided an
update; they have revised the event dates to June 11-14, 2020, in order to have time to get the
proper permitting.
Commissioner James motioned to approve the Special Event request for the Bass Pro
Social Distance Drive-thru Animal Park event; seconded by Vice-Mayor Odman. The
motion carried unanimously.
4. Proclamations
There were no proclamations at this meeting.
5. Citizen Comments
Joyce L. Davis, 500 NE 2nd Street, noted she is happy with what she has seen during the first
few weeks of Phase I reopening. She thanked the Commission for their support of our
businesses and Chamber, and noted she is pleased with the Commission's and staff s handling of
reopening the beach.
6. Public Safety Reports
Minutes of Virtual Regular Meeting 3
Dania Beach City Commission
Tuesday,May 26,2020—7:00 p.m.
Captain Daniel Marks, BSO Chief of Police, reported on recent criminal activity in the City
amidst the COVID-19 protocols that are in place, including patrols and working with Code
Enforcement.
Captain Sergio Pellecer, BSO District Fire Chief, gave an update on COVID-19 precautions
being taken and the number of calls. He noted the hurricane plan would be rolled out this week.
City Manager Garcia thanked Captain Marks for his efforts, and Chief Pellecer for getting PPE
supplies for the City and for providing help with the food distribution last week.
7. Consent A enda
7.1 Minutes:
Approve Minutes of May 12, 2020 Virtual City Commission Meeting
7.2 Travel Requests: None
Resolutions
7.3 RESOLUTION#2020-045
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF DANIA BEACH, FLORIDA, CALLING
FOR THE GENERAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION TO BE HELD ON TUESDAY,NOVEMBER 3,2020,FOR THE
PURPOSE OF ELECTING THREE CITY COMMISSIONERS TO SERVE FOUR YEAR TERMS; PROVIDING
FOR CONFLICTS;FURTHER,PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. (City Clerk)
7.4 RESOLUTION#2020-046
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF DANIA BEACH, FLORIDA,
AUTHORIZING THE PROPER CITY OFFICIALS TO APPROVE AND EXECUTE CHANGE ORDER NOS. 1,
3,AND 4 IN THE TOTAL AMOUNT OF SIXTY FIVE THOUSAND FIFTY SIX DOLLARS AND NINE CENTS
($65,056.09) TO SAGARIS CORP. FOR THE PURCHASE OF ADDITIONAL CONSTRUCTION SERVICES
AND TO MEET FIELD CONDITIONS FOR THE MULTIMODAL ENHANCEMENTS PROJECT RELATED
TO THE CITY INVITATION TO BID ("ITB") NO. 19-004; PROVIDING FOR CONFLICTS; FURTHER,
PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. (Public Services)
7.5 RESOLUTION#2020-047
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF DANIA BEACH, FLORIDA, PURSUANT
TO SECTION 337.408, FLORIDA STATUTES, AUTHORIZING THE PROPER CITY OFFICIALS TO
EXECUTE AN AGREEMENT WITH CONTRACTOR, INSITE MARTIN OUTDOOR, LLC, FOR THE
INSTALLATION OF CERTAIN BUS BENCHES, WITH SIGNAGE, FOR A ONE YEAR PERIOD,EFFECTIVE
JUNE 1, 2020 AND EXPIRING MAY 31, 2021, WITH TWO ONE-YEAR OPTIONS OF CITY TO RENEW;
PROVIDING FOR CONFLICTS;FURTHER,PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. (City Manager)
7.6 RESOLUTION#2020-048
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF DANIA BEACH, FLORIDA,
AUTHORIZING THE PROPER CITY OFFICIALS TO EXECUTE AN AGREEMENT WITH VIRGIN TRAINS
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Dania Beach City Commission
Tuesday,May 26,2020—7:00 p.m.
USA FLORIDA, LLC FORCONSTRUCTION OF SUPPLEMENTAL SAFETY IMPROVEMENTS AT
SELECTED RAILROAD CROSSINGS IN THE CITY; PROVIDING FOR CONFLICTS; FURTHER,
PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. (City Manager)
7.7 RESOLUTION#2020-049
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF DANIA BEACH, FLORIDA,
AUTHORIZING THE EXPENDITURE OF FUNDS FOR SERVICES TO BE PROVIDED BY TYLER
TECHNOLOGIES, INC. FOR FISCAL YEAR ENDED SEPTEMBER 30,2020 AND TO EXCEED THE CITY'S
ANNUAL VENDOR THRESHOLD TOTAL AMOUNT OF TWENTY-FIVE THOUSAND DOLLARS
($25,000.00); AUTHORIZING SUCH PURCHASES THAT ARE MADE WITHIN THE RESPECTIVE
DEPARTMENTS' APPROVED ANNUAL BUDGET APPROPRIATIONS; PROVIDING FOR CONFLICTS;
FURTHER,PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. (Finance)
Commissioner James motioned to adopt the Consent Agenda; seconded by Vice-Mayor
Odman. The motion carried unanimously.
8. Bids and Requests for Proposals
There were no proposals on this agenda.
9. Public Hearings and Site Plans
9.1 ORDINANCE#2020-009
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF DANIA BEACH, FLORIDA,
AUTHORIZING THE EXPENDITURE OF CITY FUNDS EXCEEDING ONE MILLION DOLLARS
($1,000,000.00), WHICH EXPENDITURE IS NOT TO EXCEED THE PROJECT ESTIMATE APPROVED BY
THE CITY COMMISSION, TO FUND THE SOUTHEAST 2ND AVENUE WATER MAIN PIPE
REPLACEMENT PROJECT;PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY;PROVIDING FOR CONFLICTS;FURTHER,
PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. (FIRST READING) (Public Services)
City Attorney Ansbro read the title of Ordinance #2020-009 and noted the Charter requires two
public hearings on expenditures exceeding $1 million.
City Manager Garcia noted the desire is to get to the pipes and infrastructure before they break.
Fernando Rodriguez, Director of Public Services, gave an overview of the Southeast 2nd Avenue
Water Main Pipe Replacement Project.
Mayor Lewellen opened the Public Hearing. Seeing as there was no one to speak in favor or
opposition, she closed the Public Hearing.
Commissioner James motioned to adopt Ordinance #2020-009, on first reading; seconded
by Vice-Mayor Odman. The motion carried on the following 5-0 Roll Call vote:
Commissioner Brandimarte Yes Vice-Mayor Odman Yes
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Dania Beach City Commission
Tuesday,May 26,2020—7:00 p.m.
Commissioner Harris Yes Mayor Lewellen Yes
Commissioner James Yes
9.2 Seven Oaks items for Rezoning, Assignment of Flex Units, Plat, Site Plan and
Variances have been removed from the agenda as the Rezoning Ordinance was
denied on first reading at the May 12, 2020 City Commission meeting.
10. Discussion and Possible Action
10.1 Chamber funding—Commissioner James
Commissioner James noted she brought this item forward because it is in our budget, and she
does not want to give money to the Chamber with strings attached. She requested the
Commission give the additional funding that was already budgeted for.
Vice-Mayor Odman said she has no problem giving the $5,000.00 to the Chamber. She would
like to see if there is interest in doing iLoveLocal videos in conjunction with the Chamber since
they have been so well received and businesses want to know if they can be in additional videos.
This is an opportunity that we could couple with the City to do another iLoveLocal segment.
She wants the money to go to the Chamber with that caveat, and asked if there is any support for
this.
Mayor Lewellen agreed, and asked what the money was intended for.
Vice-Mayor Odman responded a paper directory, but right now, there is a very specific need that
we can fill here.
Mayor Lewellen agreed it should go toward the businesses out there.
Commissioner James said when she was first elected, she and PIO Bordy did a video similar to
this. $5,000.00 is not a lot of money and we should not question what the Chamber will use it
for. If we want the videos also, we should budget additional funding for them. We should not
tell them what exactly to use the money for; we did this for Friends of the Library when they
came during public comment. She supports additional options of continuing iLoveLocal, but for
the funding already allocated, we should let them have it to use as they need. Maybe we could
get funding from Emergency money or from contingency.
Commissioner Brandimarte said it is not unusual for someone having a problem to come before
the Commission to ask for help, even when it is not budget time. She referred to Linda Wilson
previously requesting $2,500.00 from the City Commission for the Friends of the Library. With
the Commission helping Randie Shane with these videos, she does not need an additional person.
The videos are a stroke of genius as they will bring the people out who spend the money, such as
the seniors. We are telling people to come to the businesses as this is safe ground.
Minutes of Virtual Regular Meeting 6
Dania Beach City Commission
Tuesday,May 26,2020—7:00 p.m.
Commissioner Harris agreed we should help the businesses; in the commercial aspect, he
supports assisting Randie Shane supporting the small and large businesses.
Vice-Mayor Odman noted throughout the year, several organizations would come before the
Commission and ask for money, which the Commission accommodated. We desired more of a
process to provide funding; this is not an issue with the Chamber.
Commissioner James said Randie Shane already does a lot of outreach, and asked how much
money we have in contingency.
Commissioner Brandimarte commented she would not leave it all for the Chamber to do. She
favored giving Randie Shane the $5,000.00 as she needs it.
Mayor Lewellen said she does not have a problem giving the $5,000.00. She does not want to
give additional money at this time; this can be addressed at budget time. The practice of giving
money from the dais should be stopped, instead it should be discussed at budget time where to
appropriate funds. She would like Randie Shane to bring a presentation to explain what she
needs, how much she needs, and why.
Frank DiPaolo, Director of Finance, stated the contingency balance is just under$43,000.00.
Commissioner James noted the money was already allocated to the Chamber, it is not extra
funding. It does not matter if it is budget time or not; if it is something a Commissioner wants
money for, they put the item on the agenda and we take it from our contingency. If there is an
important need to service our City or businesses, that is what the money is for. We are not doing
anything for our businesses, and the Chamber is already facing a loss of revenue from the lack of
support Randie Shane is getting from failing businesses.
Commissioner James motioned to grant the Chamber of Commerce $5,000.00; seconded by
Commissioner Harris. The motion carried on a 4-1 voice vote (Vice-Mayor Odman voted
no).
10.2 City Manager's one-year review(City Manager's 12 Month Annual Report is included
under Managers Report#13.1)
Mayor Lewellen asked for guidance from Linda Gonzalez, Director of Human Resources.
Human Resources Director Gonzalez addressed the process of providing the review.
Commissioner Brandimarte asked for the review to be postponed because the evaluation sheet,
which she received two weeks ago, has 11 categories with six questions each, totaling 66
questions. There are too many questions to be answered in two weeks and she did not have
enough time to complete it. She questioned where the completion date was.
Mayor Lewellen noted the City Manager's anniversary came up in March and she brought it up
then that we should discuss it at the end of May. She did not think the form needed to be used.
Minutes of Virtual Regular Meeting 7
Dania Beach City Commission
Tuesday,May 26,2020—7:00 p.m.
Commissioner Harris questioned the date of completion, and suggested a completion date be
added so the evaluation could be done by then.
Human Resources Director Gonzalez suggested the completion date on the cover page could be
decided by the Mayor. With any performance appraisal there will always be a certain amount of
subjectivity; with this in mind, the questions should be answered to the best of the Commission's
capability and knowledge. The merit application does not have to be filled out; the objective is
to get to an average score. Whether the Commission wants to go through this process or not, or
set up a scoring system on a scale of 1 to 5, you are trying to come up with a document to help
you come up with an overall score.
Commissioner Brandimarte noted so many categories have to be answered in a short period of
time, and she is not prepared to discuss this tonight since there was no completion date on the
form.
Mayor Lewellen said we have been discussing the review over the last two meetings. It is unfair
to the City Manager to make her wait another meeting or two.
Human Resources Director Gonzalez commented this is a guide; typically, you will already have
an idea of how you are rating someone. The goal is to have a 1 through 5 rating from the
Commission; we are looking for an overall rating.
City Manager Garcia said the evaluation that was submitted was a guide. She noted she
submitted a 30-plus page detailed report of what has occurred over the past 14 months since she
has been the Manager. Human Resources Director Gonzalez is conveying this as a guide, but the
Commission should know what they think of her as their City Manager.
Commissioner James questioned if tonight's meeting was to discuss what was on the paper and
noted this would be very time consuming and frustrating. She asked if the Commission is
coming up with a collective number, and felt this would not be a very productive meeting if we
are going to take time to do this tonight. She said if there is not a deadline date for them, we do
not have to turn them in today, and asked if the forms go in the personnel file.
Director Gonzalez said the document serves as a guide only to come to an overall assessment.
Commissioner James said this should be the assessment. Some items are merged and difficult to
give an accurate number to. She suggested the Commission fill them out and make them part of
the agenda as she does not understand what is going on.
Mayor Lewellen noted her experience with evaluations; this is simply to be a guide for us. We
have discussed this the last two meetings and we owe it to the City Manager to discuss her
evaluation tonight. She provided us a report and it would be disrespectful to ignore it. We are
two months overdue from when the evaluation was due. We owe it to her as our employee to
discuss this; if the Commission wants to fill out the form and submit it later, that is fine. We
already know what our overall assessment is.
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Dania Beach City Commission
Tuesday,May 26,2020—7:00 p.m.
Vice-Mayor Odman felt this is odd, and questioned why everyone would not write their
comments on their guide, circle their numbers, turn them in, and someone tally them up. She
agrees we should get this done, but does not know how this will be an efficient process during
this meeting.
Mayor Lewellen said we still owe the City Manager an overall evaluation and we can discuss
whether she gets a merit increase or not.
Human Resources Director Gonzalez repeated this is a guide. The Commission should have an
overall opinion of where the person stands, and suggested discussion should happen.
Vice-Mayor Odman said these are not normal times, this is COVID time. She noted the form did
not have a completion date and it did not say on May 26th we should have it completed, so this
was not done correctly; she is confused like others are.
Mayor Lewellen commented she came fully prepared to discuss the review.
Vice-Mayor Odman said the process was not specifically laid out as to how it should be done.
She can say how great the City Manager is, but this is not a specific, meticulous process.
Commissioner Brandimarte disagreed that this was discussed; it never was. This is a public
record and it needs to be looked at even stronger; to say what we do not like about the City
Manager in a public process is a disgrace to anyone. There was no completion date, she will not
put dirty laundry out there publicly, and this is not a fair evaluation.
Commissioner James stated she did not know the number on the back page was tied to giving a
raise and did not know we were discussing giving raises during the pandemic. She is prepared to
talk about whatever, and questioned if the guide is tied to a raise.
Vice-Mayor Odman also asked if any of this is tied to an increase of salary for the City Manager.
Human Resources Director Gonzalez noted this was just a guide; whether the evaluations have a
guide or not, the goal was to have an overall discussion of the Commission's opinion. The
important thing is to use the report the City Manager submitted, which is a factual guide of
things that have happened over her term.
Commissioner James said she did not know the form was not going to be submitted.
Commissioner Harris requested the Commission be allowed to turn something in at the next
meeting based on what we have been through since March 15 with COVID.
Mayor Lewellen said we need to move forward; those who will do it verbally and go down the
list.
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Dania Beach City Commission
Tuesday,May 26,2020—7:00 p.m.
Vice-Mayor Odman asked if there was consensus to do it at the next meeting or move forward
tonight.
Mayor Lewellen said we need to move forward tonight.
Commissioner James commented she needs clarification. She thought the form was the bible for
the evaluation and wants to know what the entire protocol is as she has never evaluated anyone.
She questioned whether the form is not mandatory, instead it is a guide, and not tied to a raise.
Vice-Mayor Odman asked if Commissioner James could be ready by the June 91h meeting to
have her concerns addressed.
Commissioner James said she filled out the paper; she wants to know what the process it. She
has seen in other cities a form that is filled out and included in the agenda.
Vice-Mayor Odman thought the same thing. She did not know there was going to be public
discussion.
Commissioner James said we need to come up with a process.
Vice-Mayor Odman noted she wanted the Commission to agree that on June 9th, everyone will
be prepared and no one will be confused at that point.
The Commission consensus was to discuss the process now and on June 9th the Commission will
deliver their evaluation.
Human Resources Director Gonzalez said the information provided by the City Manager is the
best supporting documentation that the Commission has to have an overall discussion regarding
her evaluation. The guide gives them an opportunity to facilitate their thoughts on how they rate
the City Manager.
Vice-Mayor Odman emphasized that the Commissioners are saying they are not ready and not all
on the same page. She asked how this is best practice to move forward with discussion tonight.
Human Resources Director Gonzalez commented that hopefully, the Commission had time to
review the report the City Manager provided and based on that, they could give an overall rating.
Mayor Lewellen noted whether we go through the form or not, we owe it to the City Manager to
have a discussion. She understands we need to have a process, but most of us have completed
the form so we could have a general discussion. It is different because there are five of us, but
this will not get done if we keep pushing it down the road.
Commissioner Brandimarte asked why everyone else should know what you put down on your
paper. No one said it went into the City Manager's file, and Commissioner James asked that
question.
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Dania Beach City Commission
Tuesday,May 26,2020—7:00 p.m.
City Attorney Ansbro responded it is not a public record unless a Commissioner shares it with
someone.
Commissioner Brandimarte said she is not turning in the form unless it is given to the City
Manager. She felt this is all about a raise.
City Attorney Ansbro read from the City Manager's contract which states in the absence of an
evaluation, a 3% raise would be given automatically at the beginning of each fiscal year. If there
is an evaluation, more or less could be given.
Commissioner Brandimarte noted in COVID times, the City Manager should not get more than
3%, which is what she entitled to.
Commissioner James said it is very clear there was not a specific process for this. She is
disappointed this was a cut and paste guide that is not ours. We should create an evaluation that
is ours and is a public record. As policymakers, we should decide how the policy will work. It
was unclear, although she understands the intent, but the execution of it was not great. She did
not know this was going to be a discussion tied to a raise, and she would not go for any more
than what other employees are receiving during this time. Four Commissioners are asking
questions, which means something is not clear.
City Manager Garcia said the evaluation is not about money, even though she knows she has
earned more than 3%. During this time of COVID, she would never put out getting a raise. The
evaluation is the ICMA evaluation for Certified Managers. She suggested the combination of
her report and the guidance of that evaluation allows the Commission to give her a number. She
noted the guide could be for Commissioners to sit down with her to discuss strengths and
weakness. She also noted she does not receive the additional monies for insurance nor does she
have an expense account. This is an opportunity for the future to see if a raise could be 5% in
2021 if the budget can sustain it. If not, perhaps an additional week of vacation as a one-time
appropriation could be done. Different things could happen that are not directly associated with
her receiving a raise. She is asking for growth and the opportunity for the Commission to
discuss strengths and weakness.
Commissioner Harris felt with going through COVID and based on outstanding results today,
this should be done at the next Commission meeting. The City Manager has always been
available to him, but he would like to write a narrative at the end.
Vice-Mayor Odman motioned that for the June 9th meeting, everyone comes with the form
filled out, each will give a short evaluation, and each will give their number. If they were
going to talk about an extra raise or benefit, it would be discussed at the end.
Mayor Lewellen suggested narrowing this further to say the evaluation will include strengths,
weaknesses, suggestions for improvement, a general recommendation, and a number.
Commissioner James wanted to make sure we are not adding or taking anything away. We are
filling out the form we have and turning it in as an official document.
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Dania Beach City Commission
Tuesday,May 26,2020—7:00 p.m.
Vice-Mayor Odman suggested the form submitted be the official document.
Human Resources Director Gonzalez reminded the Commission the intent was to make it a guide
so they could have their own evaluation done for discussion purposes, and not to have it shared;
a working document for themselves.
Commissioner James said she votes for it being an official document.
City Attorney Ansbro clarified it may be that one or more Commissioners do not turn the form in
as they do not have to do so; no one has to turn it in.
City Manager Garcia said she can also formulate a response narrative to address anything written
about her.
The motion was seconded by Commissioner Harris. The motion carried on a 5-0 voice
vote.
11. Commission Comments
11.1 Commissioner Brandimarte
Commissioner Brandimarte noted she would do a one-on-one with the City Manager with her
filled out form.
Commissioner Brandimarte spoke of Gangrel's Wrestling show on May 23`d for Feeding South
Florida, done with social distancing, no fans and no audience; the production crew was isolated.
She noted Feeding South Florida was very grateful.
Commissioner Brandimarte recommended the Commission send a letter of support to the Dania
Beach Casino; they think the Commission does not want them to open. It would be a letter
stating we support them under the guidelines of the Mayor's order to tell the owners that we
support the opening of the Casino.
City Manager Garcia noted she spent 30 minutes on the phone with Arnaldo Suarez; he has been
asked by County Administrator Bertha Henry to submit the next phase opening. The whole
Casino has been transformed to ensure social distancing is maintained. A list and multitude of
checkpoints are in place to ensure the CDC guidelines are adhered to.
Commissioner Brandimarte said she understands this at our level, but the owners are in Brazil
and they have to know we support them.
11.2 Commissioner Harris
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Dania Beach City Commission
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Commissioner Harris agreed; he talked to Mr. Suarez today and they are going to rehire 70% of
the furloughed employees. He agrees with a letter of support as the Casino has been a partner
with us.
Commissioner Harris said we are still going through unchartered times; restaurant owners are
asking when 50% capacity will be over. These are CDC guidelines; we must educate, mitigate
and enforce.
11.3 Commissioner James
Commissioner James noted we do not have to ask the entire Commission to draft a letter; we can
do it individually. She has been there and they are probably only going to open the slots and the
restaurant. She spoke with them about thermometers, extra lighting, & signage. We want to
save such a huge investment as they just remodeled and reopened. She is going to individually
write her letter and suggested the Commissioners do so as well.
Commissioner James commented about J.C. Parrish turning 100 years old on Friday, and
thanked City staff for making it very special.
Commissioner James said she has heard great things about the beach; we are doing the best that
we can do there. The ability to survive is the willingness and ability to adapt and we have to do
so by being safe.
Commissioner James questioned what we are doing for summer camps as this week is basically
the last week of school.
Mayor Lewellen said summer camp has to do with the Governor's order.
City Manager Garcia noted our goal is to get to yes. The Governor's orders are very strict in
regard to the camps. Out of 31 cities, only one is moving forward; the rest are not making a
decision until July. The Governor's order will make the difference. She cannot guarantee that
we can have the kids in a safe environment; the CDC will have to come up with new guidelines.
JCC has canceled their summer camps and she cannot give a definitive answer.
Commissioner James asked about parents who have kids coming back into City Hall to work
when there is not going to be a summer camp.
City Manager Garcia said she has been discussing this with Human Resources Director
Gonzalez. The telework policy has been working very well. We would take all those things into
consideration and ensure employees who have children can telework. Most cities are not having
in-person meetings until July or August.
11.4 Vice-Mayor Odman
Vice-Mayor Odman noted the Commission shares common views, it is just the way we go about
it that differs. Everyone here is a public servant and everyone she works with has a tremendous
Minutes of Virtual Regular Meeting 13
Dania Beach City Commission
Tuesday,May 26,2020—7:00 p.m.
heart. Nobody is looking to shutter businesses or the Chamber. She hopes the Commission and
the residents keep this in mind; we are public servants with a deep love for the City.
Vice-Mayor Odman commented on Commissioner Brandimarte's and the Mayor's iLoveLocal
videos, and encouraged spreading the hashtag iLoveLocal campaign videos throughout social
media. She would love to see the residents get involved, and encouraged keeping it going and
helping our businesses.
Vice-Mayor Odman said she enjoyed reading the City Manager's report and thanked her for her
patience.
11.5 Mayor Lewellen
Mayor Lewellen noted there were no updates other than the beach and pier are open; it looked as
if people are following the rules when she visited. She wants the residents to realize the City has
to abide by the County order. We cannot expand on the County order, but we can be more
restrictive. She hopes people realize the Quarterdeck is not open yet; the owners are doing some
work in the building and they want to make it the cleanest restaurant in South Florida.
Mayor Lewellen said there was a small American Legion Post 304 Memorial Day ceremony
yesterday.
Mayor Lewellen noted she is on a task force for CARES Act funding from the County which is
involved in efforts to get money directly distributed to cities smaller than 500,000. She is
hopeful the group can motivate the County to distribute the money to the cities.
Mayor Lewellen noted the COVID guidelines are on the City website.
Mayor Lewellen felt the iLoveLocal videos are great and are helpful.
Mayor Lewellen asked the Commission for consensus for her to use our City logo on masks; she
wanted it for summer camp and to take home to use and for Commissioners. She would be
spending her own money on the masks.
City Attorney Ansbro confirmed that if money is not involved, she can ask for a consensus.
The Commission consensus was to allow Mayor Lewellen the use of the City logo on masks that
she will have made at her own expense.
Vice-Mayor Odman asked if we could do the logo on masks for Public Services and our
employees also, and bring this back at the next meeting.
City Manager Garcia said she would tally up the employees to come up with a cost.
Commissioner Brandimarte commented videos should not be limited to only restaurants; they
should be for all businesses. She noted the menus are very limited at Dania Pointe restaurants.
Minutes of Virtual Regular Meeting 14
Dania Beach City Commission
Tuesday,May 26,2020—7:00 p.m.
Commissioner James felt we should not give masks to employees, but look at it as a way of
making revenue. We should produce and sell them for additional revenue, and offer them on the
website. She would like to bring the item back, but also see how much it would cost.
12. Appointments
12.1 Complete Count Advisory Committee
Commissioner James appointed: Daniel Sohn
12.2 Creative Arts Council Advisory Board—no appointments
12.3 General Employees Pension Board—no appointments
12.4 Green Advisory Board—no appointments
12.5 Planning &Zoning Board
Vice-Mayor Odman appointed: Kaleb Shafa
12.6 Police and Fire Pension Board—no appointments
Commissioner James motioned to approve the appointments; seconded by Commissioner
Harris. The motion carried unanimously.
13. Administrative Reports
13.1 City Manager
City Manager Garcia felt it is a good idea to send letters to the Casino. She is pleased with the
iLoveLocal videos and will look into funding a second round. She thanked staff and all
Department Directors for running on all cylinders during the pandemic.
13.2 City Attorney
City Attorney Ansbro spoke of the teamwork we have had with all of the Emergency Orders, and
said he was pleased to let local businesses know they could open.
13.3 City Clerk- Reminders
Tuesday, June 9, 2020 - 5:30 p.m. CRA Board Meeting
Tuesday, June 9, 2020 - 7:00 p.m. City Commission Meeting
Tuesday, June 23, 2020 - 7:00 p.m. City Commission Meeting
Minutes of Virtual Regular Meeting 15
Dania Beach City Commission
Tuesday,May 26,2020—7:00 p.m.
14. Adjournment
Mayor Lewellen adj ourned the meeting at 9:3 8 p.m.
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ATTEST: Q� �y CITY OF DANIA BEACH
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THOMAS SCHNEIDER, CMC '- �iSH��aP L�ORIOLREWELLEN
CITY CLERK
Approved: June 9, 2020
Minutes of Virtual Regular Meeting 16
Dania Beach City Commission
Tuesday,May 26,2020—7:00 p.m.
REQUEST TO ADDRESS
CITY COMMISSION AT REGULAR
OR SPECIAL
VIRTUAL MEETINGS
DANIA BEACH
SEA IT.UYE IT LOVE IT
The City is required by state law to keep minutes of City Commission meetings. To properly identify
persons who address the City Commission in those minutes,the City requests that this form be completed
and provided to the City Clerk,before the meeting begins.
DATE OF COMMISSION MEETING: May 26, 2020
PRINT NAME:Joyce L. Davis
ADDRESS:500 NE 2nd Street Dania Beach FL 33004
PHONE NO. (Optional): 219.670.1066
PLEASE CHECK ONE OR BOTH OF THE BOXES BELOW:
1) W, CITIZEN COMMENTS:
Comments by Dania Beach citizens or interested parties that are not part of the regular printed agenda may be[Wade during each
Commission meeting during the period set aside for"Citizen Comments." A thirty(30)minute"Citizen Comments"period shall
be designated on the agenda for citizens and interested persons to speak on matters not scheduled on that days agenda. Each
speaker shall be limited to 3 minutes for his or her comments. Persons desiring to speak during the citizen comment period shall
inform the City Clerk immediately prior to the beginning of the meeting of their intention to speak. If more than 10 speakers
express a desire to speak.the Commission shall determine on a meeting by meeting basis whether to(a)extend the time allotted
for citizen comments to accommodate all speakers,or(b)whether to limit the number of speakers or amount of time per speaker.
A speaker's time shall not be transferable to another speaker.
PLEASE BRIEFLY DESCRIBE THE SUBJECT MATTER OF YOUR COMMENT:
Reopening of Dania Beach -City progress
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PLEASE NOTE:IF YOU WISH TO SPEAK ON AN ITEM THAT PERTAINS TO A"ZONING'TYPE OF MATTER(FOR EXAMPLE,A
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TESTIMONY. YOU MAY ALSO BE SUBJECT TO QUESTIONS ASKED OF YOU BY AN APPLICANT OR AN APPLICANT'S
REPRESENTATIVE OR ATTORNEY W141CH RELATE TO THE ITEM.
ANY PERSON WHO DECIDES TO APPEAL ANY DECISION MADE WITH REGARD TO ANY MATTER CONSIDERED AT THIS
MEETING OR HEARING WILL NEED A RECORD OF THE PROCEEDING,AND FOR SUCH PURPOSE MAY NEED TO ENSURE
THAT A VERBATIM RECORD OF THE PROCEEDING IS MADE WHICH RECORD INCLUDES THE TESTIMONY AND EVIDENCE
UPON WHICH THE APPEAL IS TO BE BASED.
LOBBYIST REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED. PRIOR TO ENGAGING IN ANY LOBBYING ACTIVITIES, WHETHER OR NOT
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CITY CLERK AN ANNUAL REGISTRATION STATEMENT AND PAY AN ANNUAL TWO HUNDRED FIFTY DOLLARS($250.00)
REGISTRATION FEE FOR EACH PRINCIPAL OR EMPLOYER. REGISTRATION FORMS ARE AVAILABLE ON THE CITY WEBSITE:
W WW.DANIABEACHFL.GOV. (ORDINANCE#20 t2-019.AMENDED BY ORDINANCE#2019-019)
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