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MIAMI RIVER COMMISSION 
c/o Robert King High
1407 NW 7St. Suite D, Miami FL 33125
Phone: 305-664-0544
Fax: 305-642-1136

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Mr. Eric Buermann , Chair of the Miami River Commission (MRC), convened the meeting at noon, Monday, September 10, 2007, Robert King High, New Board Room, 1407 NW 7 Street, Miami, Florida.

Miami River Commission Policy Committee Members and/or Designees attending:

• Eric Buermann, Chair of the Miami River Commission
• Philip Everingham, Vice-Chair of the Miami River Commission
• Lubby Navarro, designee for County Commissioner Bruno Barreiro
• Megan Kelly, designee for Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce
• Richard Dubin, President of the Miami River Marine Group
• Adam Lukin, designee for Dana Nottingham , Downtown Development Authority
• Carmen Polanco, designee for Sara Babun
• Sallye Jude, Neighborhood Representative, Appointed by Miami-Dade County
• Dr. Ernie Martin , Neighborhood rep., appointed by Miami City Commission
• Manny Prieguez, Member-at-Large, appointed by Miami City Commission

MRC Staff: Brett Bibeau, Managing Director
Ashley Chase, Assistant Managing Director

Others attending interested in the River:

• Jim Murley, Florida Atlantic University
• Robert Weinreb, City of Miami
• Marina Blanco-Papo, Miami-Dade DERM
• Evan Skornick, South Florida Water Management District
• Lucy Perez, SFWMD
• Fran Bohnsack, Miami River Marine Group
• Jeffrey Hooper, AME Shipping
• Mark Bailey, Merrill-Stevens
• Alma Llinas Keyes Realty
• Patricia Harris
• Rebecca Long
• Mark Sell
• Skeet and Becky, riverfront residents in Spring Garden
• Theo Long, Grove Park resident

I. MRC Chair Report
Chair Eric Buermann welcomed everyone back from the August break.

Chair Buermann asked for a motion to approve the MRC's July 9, 2007 meeting minutes. Vice Chair Phil Everingham moved to approve the MRC's July 9, 2007 meeting minutes. The motion was seconded by Ms. Sallye Jude , and was unanimously adopted.

Chair Buermann noted the MRC's enabling legislation appoints the Chair of the Marine Council to serve as an MRC board member. Chair Buermann stated that MRC Vice Chair Phil Everingham had served as the Marine Council's Chair for the last several years. Chair Buermann noted that the Marine Council had elected a new Chair, Mr. Ed Swaykon, whom he welcomed as a new MRC board member. Chair Buermann stated the MRC had received a letter from Mr. Swaykon appointing Mr. Everingham to continue serving on the MRC as the Marine Council's designee.

On behalf of the MRC, Chair Buermann thanked Miami-Dade County/DERM's Community Based Organization grant program whom had awarded the MRC $18,525 in order to continue the Miami River educational boat tour program.

Chair Buermann noted he had authorized MRC staff to apply for a NOAA Community Based Marine Debris Prevention and Removal Project grant, and two Miami Dade County Cultural Affairs grant opportunities for the 12 th Annual Miami Riverday festival, which is scheduled for April 19, 2008 . Chair Buermann thanked Ms. Jude for volunteering to assist on the planning of this year's free Miami Riverday festivities, and suggested that interested volunteers contact either Ms. Jude or MRC staff. Chair Buermann added the MRC sincerely appreciates all of the generous Miami Riverday sponsors, and encouraged contacting MRC staff to obtain more information on available benefits. Mr. Buermann noted the importance of providing free Miami River boat rides at Riverday to get the public out on the river. Ms. Jude stated she will be working on expanding upon the event's environmental educational goals and activities with children.

Chairman Buermann stated in January the MRC will host the SFWMD on a Miami River boat tour. Chairman Buermann noted the SFWMD's helpful support for the MRC and Miami River maintenance dredging project.

I. Presentation of the “Miami River Corridor Multi-Modal Transportation Plan”- Chair Buermann welcomed Mr. David Henderson, Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) whom provided a brief overview of the final draft Miami River Corridor Multi-Modal Transportation Plan which recommends multi-modal transportation improvements for the Miami River corridor. Mr. Henderson noted that MRC staff had distributed a CD of the revised draft final report to all MRC board members and designees one week prior to today's meeting. Mr. Henderson added that he brought MRC staff 4 copies of the printed report and technical appendices, which are available for review upon request.

Mr. Henderson stated a previous draft of the plan was previously provided and presented to the MRC. Mr. Henderson noted inclusion in the State's Strategic Intermodal System (SIS) Plan, creates eligibility to receive significant State transportation funding. Mr. Henderson noted the Miami River Corridor Multi-Modal Transportation Plan concludes the Miami River corridor meets the State criteria to be included in the SIS and should therefore be designated and included in the SIS. Mr. Henderson recommended an application be submitted for the FDOT's formal consideration to include the Miami River corridor in the SIS. Mr. Henderson noted the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) is currently re-evaluating its SIS criteria, and suggested that the MRC continue its involvement in the process.

Chair Buermann thanked the MPO, transportation agencies and local stakeholders whom participated in the lengthy planning process and for their efforts in creating the plan. Mr. Jim Murley , Chair of the MRC's Urban Infill Working Group, stated the new Miami River Corridor Multi-Modal Transportation Plan updates the Miami River Corridor Urban Infill Plan 's transportation related implementation steps. Mr. Murley added the Miami River Corridor Urban Infill Plan is the MRC's strategic plan as required by FL Statute, and it incorporates by reference the entire Miami River Greenway Action Plan, Miami River Basin Water Quality Improvement Plan , and the Miami River Corridor Energy and Water Conservation Plan. Therefore, Mr. Murley explained the MRC should consider adopting the Miami River Corridor Multi-Modal Transportation Plan as another component of their strategic plan. Mr. Murley noted the MRC looks forward to continue pursuing the River's inclusion in the SIS. Ms. Megan Kelly , Chair of the MRC's Economic Development Subcommittee, stated the EDC is working with the Miami River Marine Group towards implementing the plan's recommendation of the short sea shipping opportunities located along the upper Miami River . Mr. Murley noted that Appendix J of the plan includes information pertaining to that topic. Chair Buermann thanked Ms. Kelly, and the EDC for their work on short sea shipping.

Vice Chair Everingham asked if the Miami River Corridor Multi-Modal Transportation Plan requires approval from the city and/or county level. Mr. Murley replied that the MRC will transmit the Plan to the City, County, and all related transportation agencies and then the MRC will work in our advisory capacity towards implementing the plans transportation improvement recommendations, yet the plan does not require formal adoption by the city or county.

Per the request of Chair Murley, Mr. Brett Bibeau, MRC Managing Director, distributed the following resolution, which was previously submitted to all MRC board members and designee prior to the meeting for their review:

RESOLUTION OF THE MIAMI RIVER COMMISSION ADOPTING THE MIAMI RIVER CORRIDOR MULTI-MODAL TRANSPORTATION PLAN AND RECOMMENDING IMPLEMENTATION

WHEREAS , the Miami River Commission's strategic plan recommends additional multi-modal transportation related planning; and

WHEREAS , the mixed-use Miami River Corridor includes some of the most populated neighborhoods in Miami-Dade County , significant new residential urban infill redevelopment; and marine related industries, and the Miami Intermodal Center (MIC); and

WHEREAS, the State of Florida has established a Strategic Intermodal System (SIS) Plan focusing on important corridors and waterways critical to economic development for the ST of FL;

WHEREAS, the Miami River Commission (MRC) appropriated $25,000 to create the Miami River Corridor Multi-Modal Transportation Plan ; and

WHEREAS , the Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) appropriated $75,000 to create the Miami River Corridor Multi-Modal Transportation Plan ; and

WHEREAS, the over 1 year process to create the Miami River Corridor Multi-Modal Transportation Planning Process included over a dozen publicly noticed meetings where input was received from the Miami River stakeholders, including but not limited to residents, business owners, property owners, and governmental agencies;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE MIAMI RIVER COMMISSION (MRC):

1. The MRC hereby incorporates by reference the Miami River Corridor Multi-Modal Transportation Plan into the MRC's adopted strategic plan

2. The MRC hereby recommends implementation of the Miami River Corridor Multi-Modal Transportation Plan

3. The MRC hereby transmits the final Miami River Corridor Multi-Modal Transportation Plan to the Florida Department of Transportation, Miami Dade County, Miami-Dade Expressway Authority, City of Miami, and the United States Coast Guard

4. The MRC hereby directs the Urban Infill Working Group to provide updates to the MRC regarding the Miami River Corridor Multi-Modal Transportation Plan and its implementation as necessary and respectfully requests FDOT to consider the Miami River as a component of the SIS

Ms Megan Kelly moved to approve the resolution adopting the Miami River Corridor Urban Infill Plan. The motion was seconded by Sallye Jude and was unanimously adopted.

II. Draft Miami 21-Eastern Quadrant Update - Mr. Jim Murley , Chair of the MRC's Urban Infill Working Group (UIWG), stated on July 9, 2007 the MRC had updated its advisory recommendation on the draft Miami 21 Eastern Quadrant. The MRC found the draft “Miami 21 - Eastern Quadrant” to be consistent with the Miami River Corridor Urban Infill Plan, subject to the following remaining conditions: revising the amendment to Article 6, Section 6.10 (a) by replacing the word “encouraged” with “required”, in (a) 2. replacing “12 feet” with “16 feet”, inserting the word “unobstructed” in front of “pedestrian walkway” and exempting D1 & D2 from the waterfront setback requirements. As directed by the MRC, Mr. Murley noted this advisory recommendation was forwarded at several recent City of Miami hosted public meetings and workshops regarding the draft Miami 21. Mr. Murley added the current draft Miami 21 Eastern Quadrant is the same version the MRC considered on July 9, 2007 . Mr. Murley stated the City reported at a recent public hearing that a revised draft Miami 21 Eastern Quadrant will be posted on the City of Miami 's website at least two weeks prior to its consideration by the City Commission at first reading, which is now scheduled in October 2007. Mr. Murley stated it his understanding from testimony at the City Commission that these sound MRC recommendations are being incorporated into the revised draft, which is yet to be released.

Mr. Murley noted that the July 20, 2007 UIWG meeting minutes reflect the review and discussion regarding the MRC's July 9, 2007 advisory recommendation regarding the draft Miami 21 Eastern Quadrant. Mr. Murley stated Dr. Ernie Martin , on behalf of the residents of the Spring Garden Civic Association (SGCA), again expressed their concern which he originally mentioned to the MRC on July 9, 2007 and again during the Urban Infill Working Group's July 20, 2007 meeting. Dr. Martin stated the current zoning code provides a maximum 50 foot building height along the R3 riverfront parcels within the historically designated Spring Garden neighborhood. Dr. Martin explained the draft Miami 21 – Eastern Quadrant transfers those riverfront R3 parcels within the historically designated Spring Garden Neighborhood to T5, which provides a potential maximum of 7 stories with the definition of a building's “story,” has a maximum allowable height of 14 feet, therefore allowing the potential for a 70 foot tall building. Dr. Martin added that the SGCA would like to support the draft Miami 21, yet would like to maintain the current maximum 50-foot height limitation. Mr. Murley stated he recommends the MRC support the Spring Garden resident's recommendation for the Miami 21 – Eastern Quadrant to not allow the potential for riverfront buildings within the historically designated Spring Garden neighborhood to be taller than the 50 feet allowed under the current zoning code. Dr. Martin made a motion to add the following additional condition to the MRC's July 9, 2007 recommendation that the draft Miami 21 Eastern Quadrant is consistent with the Miami River Corridor Urban Infill Plan : maintain the building height limitation under the existing regulations for new riverfront buildings within the historically designated Spring Garden neighborhood. The motion was seconded by Ms. Sallye Jude and unanimously adopted by the MRC.

III. MRC Subcommittee Reports

a. Dredging Subcommittee (DSC) – Chair Eric Buermann provided the following Miami River Maintenance Dredging Project report:

On May 24, 2007 the ACOE awarded dredging in the projects next acceptance sections 7 & 8 of 15, using the currently available $7 million federal cost share, which consists of the remaining $3.5 million appropriation from Fiscal Year (FY) 2006 and the $3.5 million included in the FY '07 Continuing Resolution (CR). The current contract provides 60 days for the contractors to remobilize from the time of awarding Acceptance Sections, therefore the dredging contract required dredging to recommence by July 23, 2007 . The ACOE indicated their contractors requested a 120 day extension for their remobilization deadline, based on the timeline for the Boskalis sediment processing plant to return from overseas and to resolve a seawall related issue at the AME Shipping property, which the contractors lease as an additional sediment processing area. The ACOE is yet to make their decision regarding the contractors requested 120 day extension to recommence dredging, which elapses on November 20. Mr. Buermann stated the ACOE's contracted dredgers have asked for his support on delaying their remobilization which he is considering, yet he still feels it is important to keep the project moving forward with the currently appropriated funding.

The U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee has marked up the FY '08, which commences October 1 2007 , Energy and Water Appropriations Bill, with $7.5 million for the project, which is a $3 million (over 65%) congressional ad over the Honorable President's $4.5 million budget submittal.  The US Senate and Dade Delegation therefore did a tremendous job in successfully providing a significant Congressional ad over a woefully insufficient Administration's FY '08 budget request, based on the ACOE's flawed Benefit to Cost Ratio for the project, which only calculates the cargo benefits and omits all the project's additional benefits, including but not limited to the approved $55 million Merrill-Stevens Recreational Boatyard expansion, generating 350 additional full time jobs, which will only occur upon completing the dredging project. The Senate's $7.5 million mark up for the project may proceed to conference with the House Bill, which deferred line items to a lump sum amount divided consistent with the President's budget submittal. Therefore, if Congress passes the FY '08 Energy and Water Bill, it would include $4.5 - $7.5 million for the Miami River maintenance dredging project. Similar to the last federal fiscal year, there is the potential for a Continuing Resolution (CR) which would provide all line items the lesser amount of either the President's FY '08 request or the previous FY '07 appropriation, therefore under another CR the project would be provided $3.5 million in the upcoming FY ‘08. MRC Managing Director Bibeau will join the Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce representatives on September 25-27 in Washington DC to advocate for the federal cost share balance due to finish the 40% complete dredging project. Mr. Buermann thanked the Honorable Congresswoman Ileana Ros-Lehtinen and the entire Dade Delegation for their continued strong support or the project.

Chair Buermann noted the annual Miami River maintenance dredging support letter writing campaign to appropriate elected federal officials and administrators is well underway. Mr. Buermann showed a stack of letters which is one copied set of the numerous support letters mailed from local elected officials, businesses, etc., respectfully requesting the federal cost-share balance due in FY '08 Chair Buermann thanked everyone whom recently wrote letters to express their continued strong support for obtaining the federal cost share balance due to finish the project considering all of the project's benefits will only be realized upon its completion to the River's confluence with Biscayne Bay.

Chair Buermann noted MRC staff is distributing an estimated potential timeline for the project's completion under the project's current cost share and contract. The estimated timeline indicates, as the MRC and locals have anticipated for the last two years, a projected potential $9-13 million shortfall in the federal cost balance due to finish the project when the 5 year contract expires in April 2009. The ACOE's 5 year dredging contract sets the cost as a flat rate per cubic yard removed, and no dredging is allowed to be awarded after the last day of FY '08, September 30, 2008 . It is anticipated that any new potential contract would result in an increased cost per cubic yard removed, therefore everyone is working towards completing the project under the current price established when the original contract was executed in 2004. Not doing so will result in an unnecessary increased project cost, and therefore waste the tax payer's money. Therefore in August the Local Project Sponsor and ACOE executed an amendment to the Project Cooperation Agreement, in order to allow the immediate use of the previously appropriated local cost share, and any additional “non-required contributed” funds provided by the locals, such as the State's $5 million appropriation last session.

Chair Buermann stated that during the 2007 ST Legislative session, the local project sponsor, Miami-Dade County , requested $13 million from the ST towards the federal cost share balance due, in order to complete the project under the current contract and cost. The ST appropriated an additional $5 million towards the federal cost share balance due in their adopted FY '08 budget, and when added to other available and anticipated sources of federal and non-federal funding for the project, it is estimated that there are currently sufficient funds to dredge acceptance sections 7-11 of 15.

Chair Buermann explained that the only way to ensure the $86 million project will be completed under the current price per cubic yard and contract, is for the locals to appropriate the estimated remaining $9-$13 million federal cost share balance which will be due to dredge the final four acceptance sections (12-15). Therefore, the SFWMD's proposed FY '08 budget, which will be considered by the Governing Board later this month, includes its first $3 million cost share towards the federal funding shortfall, to complete the project without unnecessary cost increases and further delays. Although there is no guarantee the locals will be reimbursed for contributing towards the Federal cost share balance due in order to complete the project under the current contract and price, there is a precedent for federal cost share reimbursement after the locals provide additional funding necessary to complete a project. Therefore the locals will seek the potential Federal reimbursement of the federal cost share balance due provided by the locals. The MRC will again support the County's ST appropriation request for the project in the 2008 legislative session. The SFWMD will apply in April 2008 to FIND, whom has already awarded the project $6.68 million, for an additional $3 million towards the federal funding cost share balance due. Regrettably, the County and City will not know the outcome of these funding requests, until next year, after their FY '08 budgets are approved this month. The MRC remains grateful for the $3.7 million appropriated for the project thus far by the County, and the $2.9 million appropriated thus far by the City of Miami . Mr. Buermann stated understanding the ST mandated tax reductions are resulting in significant County and City FY '08 budget cuts, he appreciates the difficulty in appropriating additional funding for the project. Please consider the fact that any potential appropriation the City and County make in FY '08 would not be expended unless the ST and FIND requests aren't fully funded next year, and therefore would not be used unless absolutely necessary at the last minute. Chair Buermann stated since the City and County's FY '08 budgets will be adopted this month, he respectfully recommends the City and County consider appropriating a contribution towards the Federal cost share balance due to complete the project under the current cost and contract. Any additional contribution would remain beneath the County and City's maximum potential cost share amounts stipulated in their Interlocal Agreement for the project.

Chair Buermann noted the over $55 million in utility relocations required by the ACOE are continuing to be completed prior to dredging within the subject utility crossing areas.

The Dredging subcommittee's next regularly scheduled third Wednesday of the month publicly noticed meeting will be held September 19, at 10 am , 3250 SW 3 Ave.

b. Urban Infill Working Group (UIWG)- Mr. Jim Murley noted he was recently appointed to serve as the Vice Chair of the County's Council on Green Initiatives. Mr. Murley noted that in February 2005, the MRC adopted the 2 nd Update to its strategic Miami River Corridor Urban Infill Plan , which included encouraging developments along the River to include alternate sources of energy and water conservation, i.e. solar panels & low flow showerheads. Subsequently in September 2005, the MRC prepared the “Miami River Corridor Energy Efficiency and Water Conservation Report”. Mr. Murley noted during the September 5, 2007 UIWG meeting, MRC staff had distributed one of the 5 Executive Orders signed by the Honorable Governor Crist in Miami on July 13, 2007. Mr. Murley noted the UIWG had recommended that the MRC, an agency created by the State of FL , encourage MRC staff, as well as businesses owners, marine industries and developers along the Miami River to work towards obtaining general consistency with the plausible green initiatives contained in the Governor's Executive Orders. Mr. Murley noted the UIWG had agreed to undertake a review of the Executive Orders pertaining to such entities and report back to the MRC.

Mr. Murley noted the City Commission amended their contract with Staubach to provide for a scope of services and compensation related to the redevelopment of the James L. Knight Convention Center , located on the River's North shore. The Urban Infill Working Group's June 12, 2007 minutes reflect a second presentation regarding this issue. Mr. Murley recommended that the City's potential redevelopment of the subject riverfront area be consistent with the Miami River Greenway Action Plan and the Miami River Corridor Urban Infill Plan and include a public venue for performances.

Mr. Murley noted that the UIWG June minutes reflect a follow up presentation from Mr. Nottingham regarding the DDA's draft Downtown Master Plan. On behalf of the UIWG. Mr. Murley noted he looked forward to accepting his invitations to participate in public forums to provide input regarding the draft plan, which is scheduled to be presented again to the Urban Infill Working Group in October and the full MRC in November.

Mr. Murley noted MRC staff had provided the County's Planning Department with a potential U.S. Department of Commerce Economic Development Administration grant, which may provide funding for the County to create the UIWG recommended “Upper River/MIC Associated Development Plan”. In addition the South Florida Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) final document for 2007 to 2012 includes recommending the creation of the Upper River / MIC Associated Development Plan. The final CEDS document will be reviewed by the South Florida Regional Planning Council today. After the Council finds the updated CEDS generally consistent with the Strategic Regional Policy Plan for South Florida (SRPP) and accepts it as a replacement document for the SRPP for the purpose of planning for the South Florida Economic Development District, it will be submitted to the US Economic Development Administration (EDA) by no later than September 30, 2007. Ms. Jude suggested offering SRPP a free booth during the
12th annual Riverday festival.

C. Greenways Subcommittee – Dr. Martin noted he and the active Greenways Subcommittee had experienced a busy couple months, and therefore had a lot to report.

Dr. Martin noted Ms. Lavinia Freeman , Trust for Public Land (TPL), had left TPL to become a High School journalism teacher. On behalf of the MRC, Dr. Martin thanked Ms. Freeman for her years of excellent work as TPL's Miami River Greenway project manager. Dr. Martin noted Ms. Audrey Ordones, formerly of the South Florida Water Management District, had recently accepted a position with TPL as their Miami Office Director, and she has indicated TPL will continue supporting the Miami River Greenway.

Dr. Martin noted he had met with City Manager Pete Hernandez, Mary Conway , CFO, City of Miami Police Lieutenant Socorro , and Ed Blanco, City of Miami Parks Department, in June regarding several Greenway issues, including the need to identify means of providing the maintenance, security and special events along the Miami River Greenway. Dr. Martin deferred to Mr. Bibeau to provide further details. Mr. Bibeau reported that the MRC binder of materials created for the Greenways Retreat, including outlines of the Business Improvement District, (BID), Trust, and Tax Increment Financing (TIF) District options, were provided to the Manager for his consideration. Mr. Bibeau added that the MRC continues to successfully coordinate volunteer maintenance and beautification projects along the Greenway, most recently on August 24 the MRC sponsored volunteers from Engage Miami whom planted pallets of grass on the River's south shore adjacent to the M-Path on the County owned parcel beneath Metro-Rail and on August 25 the MRC sponsored and coordinated UM volunteers whom worked on the City owned on greenway sections on South and North River Drive. On May 21 the MRC coordinated and funded a successful Miami River Greenway clean up event with 130 volunteer Ransom Everglades High School Seniors. Additional volunteer Greenway clean-up events are scheduled on Saturday October 6 and October 27.

Dr. Martin thanked Chairman Barreiro whom continues to support the concept of expediting the use of the County Bond 's $7.5 million Miami River Greenway line item, to construct the riverwalk on the identified County owned parcels requiring riverwalks. Dr. Martin noted the County's Bond administrators e-mailed the MRC indicating the County Bond's $7.5 million Miami River Greenway line item is indeed being expedited to $2.5 million in FY '07 – '08 and the remaining $5 million in FY '08 – '09. In addition, the County Public Works Department has conducted site visits and a draft estimated construction timeline, which concludes in March 2010. MRC staff distributed copies of a September 6, 2007 letter from Gaspar Miranda, Assistant Director of the Miami-Dade County Public Works Department, to Roger Hernstadt, Chief of Staff for City Manager Pete Hernandez. The letter notes the American Society of Landscape Architects has offered to conduct a design competition for a riverwalk on two adjacent parcels, the City of Miami 's Lummus Park and Miami-Dade County 's pump station. The letter states in part, “The County has appropriated funds for construction of this project on County owned properties; however, if the City agrees to endorse the competition, the City would need to agree to fund the design and construction of the improvement to the City's parcel estimated at $250,000 for construction.”

Dr. Martin noted he had met with City of Miami Commissioner Michelle Spence-Jones , Mary Conway (CIP), Laura Billberry (Public Facilities), representatives from the Grants Department and Garcia's Seafood Restaurant in May to discuss the status of the riverfront portion of Lummus Park , a.k.a. “Lummus Landing.” Dr. Martin stated Commissioner Spence-Jones supports the implementation of the Miami River Greenway Action Plan in her district, and directed city staff to look into funding the project, which would include the creation of a publicly accessible riverwalk, and eventually a Fisherman's Wharf. MRC staff recommended the City apply to a couple available ST grants for funding to construct the riverwalk in Lummus Park . The owners of Garcia's Seafood were also present at the meeting to discuss their current month-to-month “License Agreement” with the City of Miami . The owners of Garcia's, who have operated along the river for over 30 years, are willing to invest in significant fish market site improvements if the license agreement term is extended or would consider relocating their seafood business, located adjacent to the City of Miami Administration building, to Lummus Landing and help create a “Fisherman's Wharf” consistent with City's Comprehensive Plan. Commissioner Spence-Jones asked Mr. Bibeau and the Greenways subcommittee to continue working with the City administration and her office on these issues. Dr. Martin stated he and MRC staff therefore had an update meeting with her Chief of Staff in late August.

Dr. Martin noted he was pleased to report that the MRC's contract with Baron Signs Manufacturing, for the fabrication and installation of 6 historic markers along the Miami River Greenway, primarily funded by a $25,000 Villager's Inc. grant with a minor MRC cost share, has successfully been completed. Dr. Martin stated MRC staff is working with the Villager's Inc to schedule an unveiling ceremony at Lummus Park , in which District Commissioner Spence-Jones, representatives of the City, the Dade Heritage Trust, TPL, local historians, etc. will be invited to celebrate the installation of the 6 historic markers. On behalf of the MRC, Dr. Martin thanked the Kona Kai Art Gallery for donating $1,650 of proceeds from their recent Miami River Art Show at Neo Vertika. The Kona Kai owners specified the donation is to be used towards additional historic markers along the Greenway. Dr. Martin explained that during the developer of Latitude on the River's original presentation to the MRC several years ago, they had pledged to install a historic marker at the development site to commemorate the former location of Brickell Shipyard and Miami Ship Services. Therefore the Greenways subcommittee provided the marker specs and is finalizing the text for the marker, which the Latitude on the River developer, Mr. Steve Gelb, recently reconfirmed the commitment to fund, fabricate and install the historic marker on their publicly accessible section of the Miami River Greenway, which is nearing completion. In addition, per the City of Miami's request, the Greenways subcommittee, in partnership with local historians Jim Brotan and Dr. Paul George, provided the “East Coast Fisheries” and “John Seybold Estate & Spring Garden” historic marker's text and images, which the City of Miami has offered to fund, fabricate and install along the Miami River Greenway, which will bring the current total of Historic Markers along the Greenway to 11, with more to come.

Dr. Martin deferred to Mr. Bibeau for an update on the Miami Circle seawall. Mr. Bibeau reported that a significant portion of the sea-wall at the State of FL owned, and Department of State administered Miami Circle site, along with a section of the upland, collapsed into the Miami River . Mr. Bibeau stated that the DOS has indicated their plan is to provide temporary repair measures to stabilize the sites collapsed seawall, while the DOS submits a $2.5 million legislative budget request, which will be considered in May 2008, to potentially fund the final and long planned permanent repair of the Miami Circle seawall. The site has remained unimproved and unavailable to the public since the taxpayers purchased the site in 1999 for over $24 million. Therefore starting with the June MRC's Executive Committee, Urban Infill Working Group and Greenways subcommittee Chairs directed MRC staff to strongly advocate for the immediate execution of the long standing plans to permanently repair the Miami Circle sea-wall, followed by the State's acceptance of the Related Group's generous written commitment to fund and construct the riverwalk to finally provide public access to the Miami Circle site. Mr. Bibeau noted State Representative Luis Garcia , whose district includes the Circle, received a letter from FIND stating its willingness to consider a grant application as soon as it is submitted to fund half of the estimated $1.5 million seawall repair, which would therefore require a $750,000 match. Mr. Manny Prieguez asked why the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) was not contributing funding towards the repair of the State owned seawall. Chair Buermann replied that he recently briefed FDEP Secretary Mike Sole, whom is currently working on the issue. Mr. Robert Weinreb , City of Miami , stated the temporary fix of the seawall has stalled because when they began removing the remaining failed sea-wall located within the federal navigable channel, they realized the sea wall was larger than anticipated, therefore removing it prior to installation of the final seawall may jeopardize the site. Mr. Bibeau stated the Army Corps of Engineer's indicated they will not allow their dredgers east of the Brickell Bridge if the collapsed sea-wall remains in the federal navigable channel upon their arrival.

Dr. Martin noted that per the request of the MRC to compare City Commission approved Riverwalk cross-sections with as built and permitted dimensions, MRC staff continues to present two sets of approved Miami River Greenway cross sections during each Greenways subcommittee meeting. The City of Miami has requested modifications to four of five of the private sector constructed riverwalk sections, because they were not consistent with the dimensions approved by the City Commission. Dr. Martin noted the June Greenways minutes reflect a review of the Latitude on the River and adjacent Neo Vertika riverwalk's City Commission approvals vs. as-built dimensions, supplemented with the approved renditions and recent photographs of the subject as-built riverwalk sections. The Greenways subcommittee noted the City Commission approved riverwalk renditions for the aforementioned riverfront developments are wider than the as-built riverwalks, and the approved plans provide connectivity to adjacent riverwalk sections, while the as-built sections fail to connect. Therefore, Dr. Martin noted he and the Executive Committee had directed MRC staff to advocate for the City to require the developers to make the necessary corrections to their riverwalks, in order to make them consistent with the Riverwalk dimensions unanimously approved by the City Commission. Mr. Bibeau noted the Greenways Subcommittee planned to review “ Terrazas River Park Village ” and “River Oaks” at its next meeting.

The Greenways subcommittee's next regularly scheduled second Wednesday of the month meeting will be held on September 12, 2007 , 2 PM , 1407 NW 7 ST.

D. Stormwater Subcommittee - SSC Chair Sallye Jude noted that on September 11, the City Commission will consider agenda item PH 1, contracting a firm for the design and permitting of the Wagner Creek & Seybold Canal Dredging project. Ms. Jude stated the Subcommittee commends the City of Miami for making progress in achieving the long-term goal of dredging Wagner Creek & Seybold Canal, which is consistent with the Miami River Basin Water Quality Improvement Plan and the Miami River Corridor Urban Infill Plan. Mr. Manny Prieguez asked whom would perform the dredging of Wagner Creek and Seybold Canal . Mr. Bibeau replied that the City of Miami administration is recommending CH2MHILL be awarded the design and permitting of the project on September 11, and the City will separately consider the actual dredging once the design and permitting is completed.

In addition, Ms. Jude noted on September 11, 2007 the Miami City Commission will consider agenda item CA 10, authorizing an Interlocal Agreement in order for the Scavenger Decontamination vessel's existing $200,000 contract with the City of Miami, which provides 5 hours per week of service on the Miami River, to be supplemented with Miami Dade County's additional $100,000 for additional service hours on the Miami River. Ms. Jude noted the Scavenger de-contamination vessel services are consistent with the Miami River Basin Water Quality Improvement Plan and the Miami River Corridor Urban Infill Plan.

Per the MRC's recommendation for the Water and Sewer Department to façade the riverfront sewage pump station located on North River Drive , Ms. Jude noted the Department has provided the presented renditions of a façade treatment which matches Art Deco features of the historic Scottish Rite building across the street. Dr. Ernie Martin made a motion that the MRC endorse the WASD bringing the rendition to fruition, with additional landscaping, a publicly accessible riverwalk to be funded from the Miami River Greenway line item in the County Bond issue, and allowing the use of the existing vacant parking lot. The motion was seconded by Ms. Sallye Jude and was unanimously adopted.

E. Economic Development & Commerce- Chair Megan Kelly thanked and commended Chairman Barreiro, and Merrill-Stevens Yachts for the $55 million expansion, generating 350 additional full time jobs, which was unanimously approved by the Board of County Commissioners in July. Ms. Kelly noted the expansion will only be possible upon completion of the dredging project. Vice Chair Everingham asked if the expansion project would begin prior to the recommencement of dredging, and Mr. Mark Bailey , Merrill-Stevens, noted there are a lot of hurdles to overcome before the project can get underway.

In addition, Ms. Kelly stated the Board of County Commissioners (BCC) approved a resolution on July 24, 2007 relating to an application by Miami Yacht & Engine Works, LLC, for modification of an existing Class I Permit to authorize expansion of a marine repair facility to allow mooring or storage of an additional 24 powerboats at 2100 NW North River Drive .

Ms. Kelly noted that during the MRC's July meeting, Chairman Barreiro had distributed a July 10, 2007 memorandum to the Board of County Commissioners attaching a draft ordinance to create a Manatee Protection Plan Review Committee and to provide funding to begin collection and compilation of related data. The proposed ordinance, which passed at first reading, will be taken up by the “GOE Subcommittee” on September 11 before its second reading by the County Commission in October. Ms. Kelly noted the Economic Development and Commerce subcommittee's July 27 minutes reflect the EDC's recommendation for the MRC to endorse the ordinance creating the Miami-Dade County Manatee Protection Plan Committee. Mr. Everingham made a motion to endorse Chairman Barreiro's ordinance to create the Miami-Dade County Manatee Protection Plan Review Committee. The motion was seconded by Mr. Manny Prieguez , and was unanimously adopted.

Ms. Kelly added that the July minutes reflect the EDC's recommendation for the MRC to advocate for stronger enforcement of the Miami River 's idle / no wake zone restriction, and suggested that Dr. Bohnsack and MRC staff discuss the creation of a pilot program for marine patrol to pull over and issue citations to boats traversing the Miami River faster than the required idle / no wake speed at the next Miami River Public Safety and Security meeting.

F. Public Safety – The MRC deferred to Dr. Fran Bohnsack, Miami River Marine Group. Dr. Bohnsack reported that the next Miami River Homeland Security meeting will be held Tuesday, September 11, 2 pm, USCG Gator's Den, and the item includes discussion of the creation of new “TWIX” identity cards and the new partners for restoration and enhancement of the Port of Miami River camera system, with additional environmental sensors, which will be funded by corporations.

IV. New Business – The following items were addressed/discussed:

Ms. Theo Long stated she has lived in the riverfront Grove Park neighborhood for 25 years, and is a former MRC board member. Ms. Long explained due to the current construction conditions at three adjacent Miami River draw bridges, the NW 17 Ave Bridge closed for repairs, NW 5 ST Bridge replacement, and the NW 12 Ave bridge replacement projects, traffic on NW 7 ST is terrible. Ms. Long asked the MRC to consider formulating an advisory recommendation to amend the Federal Regulation rush hour bridge lock downs by removing the current exception for vessels under tow until another bridge becomes fully operational again. Dr. Bohnsack noted the shipping terminals along the Miami River would be opposed to such a request, since additional bridge regulations schedule would reduce the number of feasible international shipments per day. Mr. Dubin noted the entire Miami River 's Federal Navigable Channel was recently essentially shut down for nearly a week while the NW 12 Ave Bridge spans were set in place. Dr. Bohnsack stated she will ask the shipping terminals to try and voluntarily schedule their shipments with as much sensitivity to avoiding rush hour as allowed by tides, and other constraints and commitments. Mr. Bibeau noted Miami-Dade County is expediting the fully funded repairs of the NW 17 th Avenue Bridge which was recently deemed a hazard and therefore temporarily closed for repairs. Mr. Bibeau suggested that the MRC's Urban Infill Working Group request that the County provide an update of the status of the NW 17 th Avenue Bridge repair schedule. Ms. Long stated she believes she saw a posted sign noting the NW 17 Ave bridge repair project would be completed in 2010. MRC Urban Infill Working Group Chair Murley noted the 2 nd Ave Bridge replacement had excellent public information outreach, and the NW 17 Ave, NW 5 ST, NW 12 Ave Bridge projects would benefit from increased public information, especially considering the compacted impacts recently created when temporarily closing the NW 17 Ave Bridge for repairs.

The meeting adjourned.

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