Commission Meeting

Thursday, February 12, 2026

Executive Summary

- Marine Stadium referendum approved unanimously for August 2026 ballot, designating Global Spectrum L.P. as operator with 93%/7% revenue split. Over a dozen public speakers testified in support, including the architect's son Hilario Candela Jr. and Miami-Dade County Commissioner Raquel Regalado, who clarified county deed restrictions and reverter clauses. - Police Chief succession controversy erupted with commissioners questioning Chief Morales' alleged campaigning for District 4 seat while employed; motion to appoint interim chief failed. Commissioner Rosado accused Morales of telling community members he would run for the D4 seat, while Chairwoman King warned she would not tolerate police events in her district without notification. - $400,000 settlement rejected 2-3 after heated debate between commissioners and Police Chief opposing the agreement. Chief Morales personally argued against the settlement, saying it would send the department a message that "rules don't matter," while Commissioner Rosado warned of $1 million+ exposure at trial. - Vision Zero policy approved with 90-day timeline after concerns about traffic impact; includes FDOT grant of $268,000 for speeding enforcement. Public testimony from a parent described the daily fear of crossing Miami streets with a child; county data showed 19 of 100 high-crash sites are in Miami. - GSA lot redevelopment advanced with 1,500-2,500 affordable/market-rate housing units proposed for 19-acre Allapattah site. Housing advocate Annie Lord urged 20% affordable units at 60-100% AMI, while City Manager pushed to "break the inertia" on a site long slated for redevelopment.

Lobbyist Activity

All 25 registrations in the 14-day window are new. Notable clusters:

Informa Markets Art, LLC (Art Basel / Art Miami parent)

- Lobbyists: Felipe Angulo (reg. 02/11), Nick Korniloff (reg. 02/06), Brian May (reg. 02/11) - Subject: "Event holdings and long-term commitments" - Context: Three simultaneous registrations on the same subject suggests active negotiation of a multi-year event agreement. No specific agenda item on the February 12 agenda; likely pre-positioning for a future item or administration-level negotiations.

Serve Robotics (Robot Delivery)

- Lobbyists: Jose F. Diaz (reg. 02/09), Emilia Pulido (reg. 02/09), Joseph Salzverg (reg. 02/18) - Subject: "Robot Delivery" / "Operation of food delivery robots within the City" - Context: Three lobbyists from two firms registered on robotic delivery. No agenda item this meeting; signals an upcoming regulatory push.

Kanso Coral Way, LLC (Development at 2340 SW 32nd Ave area)

- Lobbyists: Micah Conn (reg. 02/17), Wayne E. Dunkelberger (reg. 02/17), Mark Schrieber (reg. 02/17) - Subject: Development approvals for properties at 2340 SW 32 Ave, 3224-3232 SW 23 St, 3209-3219 SW 23 Terr, 3231-3233 SW 23 Terr - Context: Three lobbyists registering on the same day for the same project indicates a significant development application approaching the pipeline.

MG Regency Airport, LLC (1000 NW 42nd Ave)

- Lobbyists: Guillermo Fuentes (reg. 02/18), Benjamin Sherry (reg. 02/12), Melissa Tapanes-Llahues (reg. 02/12) - Subject: Land use and zoning matters / UDRB project presentation - Context: Two lobbyists registered on meeting day itself; a third post-meeting. Project at 1000 NW 42 Ave (near Miami International Airport) in UDRB pipeline.

Decumanus Corporation (1021 SW 25th Ave)

- Lobbyists: Mario J. Garcia-Serra (reg. 02/18), Teresa Muniz (reg. 02/18) - Subject: Proposed redevelopment at 1021 SW 25th Avenue - Context: Garcia-Serra is one of Miami's most prominent land-use attorneys. Post-meeting registration signals early-stage engagement.

Vous Church, Inc. (Parking Fee Text Amendment)

- Lobbyists: Catherine M. Carbonell (reg. 02/17), James R. Williams (reg. 02/18) - Subject: Parking fee text amendment - Context: A church seeking a code text amendment on parking fees; likely related to parking requirements for religious institutions.

AI / Technology Registrations

- Gabriel Groisman for Archistar, Inc. (reg. 02/01) — "AI Permit Review Technology." Potentially connects to RE-14 (R-26-0072), which directs the City Manager to evaluate AI-assisted tools for zoning verification letters and prescreening of zoning applications. - Andrea Tovar for Hoyden AI (reg. 02/12) — "AI-Powered traffic enforcement technology to improve transit reliability and street safety." Potentially connects to RE-12 (R-26-0070), the Vision Zero policy.

Other Notable Registrations

- Felipe Angulo & Karla Fortuny for 970 NW 8th Street Road, LLC (reg. 02/12) — "Building demolition through appeal approval." Registered on meeting day; active demolition appeal. - Sarah Crisp for Verizon (reg. 02/05) — "All wireless telecommunication issues." Broad-scope registration. - Mary Estime-Irvin for Acruva Community Development, Inc. (reg. 02/25) — Affordable housing development meetings with elected officials and department heads. Potentially connects to the GSA lot discussion (RE-18). - Manuel Prieguez for Regal Marina (reg. 02/17) — Code enforcement issues. - Andrea Tovar for Walmart, Inc. and affiliated subsidiaries (reg. 02/26) — "Real estate and land use." Post-meeting registration. ---

Key Actions & Votes

Miami Marine Stadium Management Agreement Referendum (R-26-0056)

The ask: Place referendum on August 2026 ballot for voters to approve management agreement with Global Spectrum L.P. to operate restored Miami Marine Stadium The vote: Passed unanimously Key terms: City receives 93% of gross sales after $33,333 monthly management fee deduction Location: 3501 Rickenbacker Causeway, Miami, FL 33149 Procedural note: Item amended per two memos dated 2/9/2026 with resolution number added Public testimony highlights: The item drew the most public speakers of any agenda item, with overwhelming support from community members, preservation advocates, and county officials. "In a world of Instagram reels, YouTube shorts, and disappearing messages, we need places where long-term memories can be created. For those of us fortunate enough to have attended a concert at the Miami Marine Stadium, we remember the perfect combination of sunsets, music, and water."Elisa Margulies "To acquire a parcel like the Marine Stadium and construct a new facility would be astronomical in price, but we have one sitting here that has been unused for almost 33 years. This is an amazing opportunity to transform a dead asset into a high-impact location."Misha Esradi "Our Marine Stadium is unique in all the world, and part of Miami's skyline... It is waiting to be reintroduced to the world. The only one in the world. Please don't let us down."Bruce Matheson "I watched Richard Nixon become nominated on a floating stage at the Marine Stadium. I watched Chris Christopherson, Willie Nelson, Jimmy Buffett. It's such an iconic venue. It means Miami."Stuart Lumberg Architect Rich Heisenbottel noted the stadium "operated from 1963 to 1992 and hosted hundreds of boat races and concerts... performers like Jimmy Buffett, Arthur Fiedler, the Boston Pops, Benny Goodman, Queen and the Beach Boys all performed on this stage." Hilario Candela Jr., son of the original architect, delivered an emotional plea: "My sincere hope is that my father's award-winning design and his signature achievement be restored... He gave his life to our community. This facility was designed and built for our community."Hilario Candela Jr. "I am humbled by how so many in our community are in love with this facility, many of whom have never witnessed the stadium in operation. Perhaps it is because the stadium literally rises and floats above the water."Hilario Candela Jr. County coordination: Miami-Dade Commissioner Raquel Regalado provided critical context on deed restrictions: "The Miami Marine Stadium was a piece of land that was deeded to the City of Miami by Miami-Dade County. And it has very specific restrictions and a covenant that rides with the land."Commissioner Raquel Regalado "In 2008, then Mayor Manny Diaz wanted to demolish the Miami Marine Stadium. And that resulted in an action that started at the county and my father, then Commissioner Thomas Regalado, later Mayor Thomas Regalado, moved to declare it historic."Commissioner Raquel Regalado "The reverter language is very clear and in the past administration there was a movement here to have residential use at the Marine Stadium... the county's intent to move on the reverter should the restrictions of the use be challenged."Commissioner Raquel Regalado Operational challenges: Infrastructure needs including Wi-Fi connectivity for rideshare services . County deals with last-minute event permits creating traffic issues on the Rickenbacker Causeway .

Settlement Agreement Rejection (RE3)

The ask: Approve $400,000 settlement inclusive of attorney's fees for whistleblower/discrimination case The vote: Failed 2-3 Opposition reasoning: Police Chief Morales opposed settlement, stating "rules matter, behavior matters, professional decorum matters" and preferring trial Financial risk cited: Commissioner noted potential for $1 million+ exposure if case goes to trial and city loses Allegations: Retaliation under Whistleblower Act, Title VII race/sex discrimination claims Detailed settlement terms: $400,000 inclusive of all attorney's fees, plus reimbursement of vacation/sick time (subject to FOP caps) and retirement at rank of major in title. Allegations: retaliation under Whistleblower Act, retaliation and race/sex discrimination under Title VII. Chief Morales' testimony against settlement: "I've been here 32 years with the Miami Police Department, and five years almost as your chief, and it takes making hard decisions."Chief Manny Morales "For those 32 years that I've been here, I've always guided myself by the principles that rules matter, that behavior matters, that professional decorum matters. And to have something like this pass and move on and make a settlement, sends the entire Miami Police Department a message that those things do not matter as long as you're willing to get an attorney."Chief Manny Morales "It is about the men and women of the Miami Police Department who come every day and do what's right and are expected to do what's right. So, I would love to see this go to trial."Chief Manny Morales Commissioner Rosado's fiduciary argument: "The problem is, you know, we have a fiduciary duty, in my view. You know, I have one with my taxpayers, my residents. I represent 20 percent of the city, one-fifth of the city of Miami."Commissioner Rosado "The problem with this is that this goes to court, and for any reason, chief, and I'm not doubting you at all, but for any reason, we get into a situation that we lose, this thing is going to turn into a million dollars, a million plus."Commissioner Rosado "It's a business decision at the end of the day, whether we want to expose ourselves to one point something mill."Commissioner Rosado Procedural note: Motion to defer for executive session failed for lack of second. Court expecting status update the following day. Motion to approve then failed 2-3. Plaintiff's attorney Michael Pizzi had spoken during public comment in support.

Vision Zero Policy Development (RE12)

The ask: Direct City Manager to develop Vision Zero policy to eliminate crash fatalities within 90 days (amended from 30 days) The vote: Passed unanimously with amendment Amendment: City Manager requested 90-day timeline extension, citing need for adequate development time Traffic concerns: Commissioner expressed concern policy would worsen existing traffic congestion Federal context: Miami-Dade County already required to draft Vision Zero plan; federal Safe Streets for All grant funding available Public testimony: Parent Annette Spillan delivered compelling testimony: "Every day I hold my child's hand as we cross her streets. I don't think about traffic engineering formulas or signal timing plans. I think about whether the car turning right sees us."Annette Spillan "That feeling, that moment of uncertainty in a crosswalk is something no parent, no grandparent, no older adult, no person using a walker or wheelchair should ever have to experience."Annette Spillan "We are designing streets that serve vehicles well, but too often they don't serve the people who live there. Speed and aggressive driving turn everyday mistakes into life-altering tragedies."Annette Spillan Commissioner debate: Commissioner Gabela raised traffic concerns: "If this policy is installed, then it's going to slow up the traffic situation, the bad traffic situation that we already have in the city. That's my concern." In response, a commissioner clarified the program's scope: "It's not necessarily designed to stop traffic. It's designed to really say, these are the intersections where people are getting killed. Could be as a pedestrian, could be in a car." Crash data from debate: "There are 100 high crash sites in the county. 50 of them are on state roads, so they're out of local control, but 19 of those in the county plan were in the city of Miami." Federal funding status: Six of the high-crash sites in Miami are funded through the Safe Streets for All grant, with the federal government moving to the full funding grant agreement, plus one funded through FDOT's Highway Safety Improvement Fund.

FDOT Speeding Enforcement Grant (R-26-0059)

The ask: Accept $268,000 FDOT grant for FY 2026 Speeding and Aggressive Driving Enforcement Saturation Patrol Project The vote: Passed unanimously (consent agenda) Match required: None Department: Miami Police Department enforcement resources

GSA Lot Redevelopment Evaluation (RE18/R-26-0076)

The ask: Direct City Manager to evaluate unsolicited proposals for city-owned GSA properties and place discussion item on agenda within 30 days The vote: Passed unanimously Properties: 1970 Northwest 13 Avenue & 1950 Northwest 12 Avenue (Folios 01-3135-000-0163 & 01-3135-0010-010) Housing component: 1,500-2,500 units proposed (affordable and market-rate) Current use: City motor pool, trash operations, public works facilities Public testimony: Annie Lord, Executive Director of Miami Homes for All, spoke about the 19-acre site: "This is a fantastic opportunity to help address the needs of our communities, including the terrible deficit of affordable housing we have in the city of Miami."Annie Lord Lord described a community engagement process yielding three priorities: "They wanted community services, green space, and affordable housing." Her coalition proposed 20% of all units at 60-100% AMI and advocated for a competitive RFP process. City Manager's advocacy: City Manager Reyes made a strong push for action: "I want to break the inertia. I want momentum. I want to get this going, and that's what this is about." On the scope: "On the east side, there's the capacity from 1,500 to 2,500, market rate, affordable and low income, so it's the whole gamut of what we need in the city of Miami workforce." On new facilities: "I'm negotiating to get a new GSA building that includes motor pool, that we will have new equipment for our mechanics and parking and all these other things." On fiscal impact: "By developing those acres, we're going to collect property taxes where we were not before. So, it's going to be a positive for the city."

Miami Freedom Park Development Agreement Amendment (PZ2)

The ask: Second reading ordinance amending development agreement for soccer stadium project The vote: Passed unanimously as amended Amendment: Per substitution memo dated February 4, 2026 Soccer field clarification: City Attorney noted original 2022 lease specified six courts; flexibility desired for "flex and pop up" courts closer to resident access Opposition noted: Public speaker Elvis Cruz objected to reduction from promised 11 fields to 6, restriction to children 16+ Elvis Cruz's detailed objections: Cruz presented a timeline of broken promises: "In 2019, the voters were promised 11 soccer fields... after the election, this press release confirmed a public park with 11 soccer fields." "But in 2022, things became suspicious when the commission approved this agreement where the number of soccer fields was left unnamed, however, nobody mentioned it during the session." Cruz raised a legal question about the development agreement: "This document is attached to today's agenda. However, this agreement officially recorded before today is not signed by any party. Is this legally valid?" City Attorney's clarification on courts: "The original lease in 2022 stated six. Apparently there had been some flexibility desired, so that idea that 12 courts aren't happening is not the case. They wanted to make them flex and pop up so they didn't commit to the exact number." "It's just a change in the language so that these courts could be closer to the access and residents would be able to get there. So it's all based on resident input." The presenter clarified the distinction: "The soccer fields are to do with the stadium. That is part of their benefits to provide to the community. That has nothing to do with the 50-acre park... Now we're getting a better park on the 50 acres with the dog park, playground, pavilion, and other walking paths."

Police Chief Succession Planning Discussion

The ask: Commissioner Rosado moved to appoint interim chief and begin permanent chief search immediately The vote: Failed for lack of second Controversy: Chairwoman King accused Chief Morales of campaigning for District 4 seat while employed, citing social media posts and events Chief's response: Acknowledged community approaches but denied concrete plans; willing to stay beyond October if retained City Manager position: Will terminate any director/chief found campaigning on duty; transition to begin three months before October retirement Commissioner Escalona initiated the discussion: "At some point I asked whether there was a succession plan in place. And I am of the opinion, we know you're leaving in October... I do not want to get to October when we know that you are leaving and then all of a sudden we have to rush and find a chief."Commissioner Escalona "I don't want us to get into a situation like what happened with Acevedo."Commissioner Escalona Chief Morales' crime statistics and emotional appeal: "In this tenure that I've had as chief, we have seen homicides drop by 43% since I took over in 2021. Shootings down 42%, robberies 40%, sex offenses 25%, aggravated assaults 12%."Chief Manny Morales "This has been the honor of a lifetime to be the chief of Miami."Chief Manny Morales On the legal option to stay: "There is section 40-199 of city code that allows for police and fire chiefs to remain after the deadline of the drop. Since 1998, six police chiefs and fire chiefs have been asked by not only the administration, but also the mayor and the commission to stay."Chief Manny Morales "I will be here as long as you all will have me."Chief Manny Morales Commissioner Rosado's confrontation over campaigning: "One of the things you're looking at doing once you're done with your retirement, which could be in October, but I think should probably be much sooner than that, quite frankly, is that you're thinking of campaigning for public office."Commissioner Rosado Chief Morales responded: "I have been approached by members of the community that would love to see me continue my public service after I'm done in uniform. But that is so far off in the future. In this business of public safety, I work one day at a time, sir." Commissioner Rosado escalated: "I've heard from at least a dozen individuals who have said, unrelated individuals, who have said that you have said that you are going to be running for the district 4 seat." "Which puts me in a really uncomfortable position, because we're paying you essentially half a million dollars a year to be campaigning on the job, is what it appears to me. If we see your social media, if we see the fact you're having events in district one on the border of district four, without having consulted with the district one commissioner."Commissioner Rosado "I find it dishonest for you to say that you're being approached when you are telling people out in the community that you are running for this seat."Commissioner Rosado Chairwoman King's warning: Chairwoman King, whose District 1 borders District 4, weighed in: "I gotta tell my people, if this is the case, whether I have a police chief or I have a police chief slash politician. I got, I need to know that." "My district will not be used for this kind of thing. If you both are running against each other in this case, I'm not gonna fall for it."Chairwoman King "If you guys start doing that, I'm gonna start going into your district, okay, and I'm gonna start campaigning in your district."Chairwoman King The motion and City Manager's response: Commissioner Rosado formally moved: "I would like to respectfully request that you appoint an interim chief and begin the search for a permanent chief immediately." The motion failed for lack of a second. City Manager Reyes then drew a firm line: "I have an expectation that none of my directors nor my chief campaign on duty. If there is an iota of evidence that either of my directors or my chief is campaigning on duty, you have my word that they will be terminated accordingly." He also warned: "Simple hearsay hurts our recruitment process as a city because there is not a well qualified chief that will raise their hand to volunteer." Ball and Chain litigation costs discussed: The City Attorney estimated approximately $6 million total ($4M insurance, $2M city). When Commissioner Rosado called it a "fiasco," the City Attorney cautioned: "I would respectfully urge you not to call it a fiasco because it's sort of weakening our case."

Regulatory & Compliance Flags

Notification Requirements for Police Events

New enforcement: Resolution R-19-1705 (December 12, 2019) requires commission notification before police department events in districts Compliance commitment: City Manager affirmed expectation that all chiefs and directors follow existing resolution Chairwoman King specifically cited a recent "coffee with the chief" event in her district that she was not notified about: "For two years, nobody has ever said to me from the department, 'Hey, I'm gonna have coffee.' This is the first time that's happened. I'm not stupid here." The directive traces back to the late Commissioner Manolo Reyes, who passed legislation requiring district commissioners be consulted before police events in their districts.

Agenda Item Filing Deadline Extension (FR4)

Code amendment: Chapter 2, Article 2, Section 2-33 modified to extend deadline for placing items on City Commission agenda Timeline change: From Tuesday 5 PM to Sunday midnight before meeting Rationale: Allow administration more time for legal sufficiency review

Sustainable Improvements Pilot Program (SR2)

Code amendment: Chapter 10, Article 1, Division 2, Section 10-20 creating pilot program under Section 2-33C-9 Purpose: Incentivize residential storm-proofing and future-proofing upgrades including impact-resistant windows, reinforced roofs, flood protection, energy-efficient appliances, low-flow toilets, insulation, and permeable pavement Benefits: Reduced permit costs, expedited permit review, and public outreach materials

Building Permit Exemption (SR1)

Code amendment: Chapter 55, Section 55-10 to exempt construction of carport, covered entry, driveway, patio, or pool from subdivision regulation requirements

Litigation & Risk Signals

Lewis-Francois v. City of Miami (RE-3 / R-26-0061)

- Claims: Whistleblower Act retaliation, Title VII retaliation, race and sex discrimination under Title VII. - Settlement rejected 2-3. The $400,000 settlement (with retirement at major rank and leave reimbursement) was voted down. Case proceeds to trial. - Risk factors: - Commissioner Gabela warned of "$1 million+ exposure" at trial. - Police Chief Morales publicly opposed settlement on the dais, stating he would "prefer the case go to trial." This statement is now part of the public record. - Commissioner Rosado's attempt to defer to executive session failed for lack of a second, meaning substantive discussion of the case occurred in open session. - Commissioner Rosado later raised concerns about litigation costs related to "a separate ongoing police matter," prompting City Attorney Wysong and Chairwoman King to urge discussion be reserved for attorney-client session.

Freedom Park / PZ-2 — Voter Expectation vs. Development Agreement

- Public commenter Elvis Cruz alleged voters were promised 11 soccer fields but the amendment reduces to 6. City Attorney characterized the change as "ministerial." Multiple Jennings disclosures were made, indicating quasi-judicial treatment. Any challenge would likely focus on whether the field reduction constitutes a material change to voter-approved benefits. [0:16:55, 1:40:55]

Marine Stadium — Fiscal Exposure and Late Corrections

- Chairwoman King's public rebuke of the City Attorney for late-night corrections on items "potentially committing over $100 million" creates a record of concern about due diligence on the Marine Stadium financial terms.

Police Chief DROP Expiration

- Chief Morales's DROP expires October 2026. His citation of Section 40-199 allowing post-DROP service signals he intends to seek an extension. The Commission's handling of succession planning — or lack thereof — could become politically charged given the RE-3 settlement dynamics. ---

Contract & Procurement

D4 Commercial Facade Program (R-26-0061)

Amount: $317,500 transfer of unallocated CDBG Economic Development funds from FY 2025-2026 Purpose: D4 Commercial Facade and Code Compliance Pilot Program

Capital Plan Reallocations

R-26-0065: $4,550,000 reallocated from certain FY 2025-26 capital plan projects R-26-0073: $550,000 additional reallocation for current/future capital projects R-26-0075: $1,000,000 additional reallocation for current/future capital projects

Bayfront Park Management Trust Budget (R-26-0074)

Amount: $31,041,752 amended budget Fiscal year: October 1, 2025 through September 30, 2026

Community & Public Comment Highlights

Coconut Grove Aquatic Facility Naming (FR2)

Jamila Stevens read a resolution from the Coconut Grove Village West Homeowners and Tenants Association supporting Commissioner Pardo's proposal to name the new aquatic facility at Elizabeth Berry Park as the "Bernika Stirrup Silva Aquatic Facility," honoring a Coconut Grove community leader and 40+ year Miami-Dade County educator.

Kiwanis of Little Havana Recognition

Commissioners Rosado and Escalona presented a proclamation honoring the Kiwanis of Little Havana on their 50th anniversary. The organization helps organize the annual Calle Ocho Carnival (58th year) and supports youth programs.

Timeline & Deadlines

- March 14, 2026: 30-day deadline for GSA lot discussion item on commission agenda - May 2026: 90-day deadline for Vision Zero policy development (from February 12) - July 2026: Three months before Chief Morales' October retirement when transition planning begins - August 2026: Marine Stadium management agreement referendum election - February 26, 2026, 10 AM: Attorney-client session regarding William O Fuller litigation

Threads Across Meetings

ARK of the City Extensions

R-26-0062: 60-month extension for 1302 Northwest 54 Street rehabilitation project R-26-0063: Extension for multiple properties (551 Northwest 71 Street; 7142 & 7148 Northwest 5 Court) Pattern: Nonprofit struggling to meet original timelines for job training facility development

Marine Stadium Restoration

Community momentum: Sustained public support with architect's son (Hilario Candela Jr.) and venue management experts testifying [0:50:53, 0:28:35]. Over a dozen speakers appeared, an unusually high number for a single agenda item. Historical context: Stadium operated 1963-1992, hosted performers including Jimmy Buffett, Queen, the Beach Boys, and the Boston Pops. Unused for 33 years. County coordination: Commissioner Regalado noted deed restrictions and reverter clause if use challenged . County supports single operator model. Miami Forever Bond included preservation allocation. Operational challenges: Infrastructure needs including Wi-Fi connectivity for rideshare services .

Police Department Oversight Issues

Ball and Chain litigation: Approximately $6 million in total legal costs ($4M insurance, $2M city) . City Attorney warned commissioners against characterizing the case publicly as it could weaken the city's legal position. District notification conflicts: Disagreement over when commissioners must be notified of police activities in their districts . Chairwoman King cited a specific "coffee with the chief" event held in District 1 near the District 4 border without her knowledge. Succession planning tensions: Administration prefers three-month transition timeline versus commissioner preference for immediate action . City Manager confirmed the transition plan was discussed even before he was appointed, noting "one of the most important decisions that we would be making as a city government is the transition to a new chief." Chief's record cited in defense: During discussion, Morales cited crime reductions under his tenure: homicides down 43%, shootings 42%, robberies 40%, sex offenses 25%, aggravated assaults 12%, with fewer complaints and uses of force.

Freedom Park Accountability

Public speaker Elvis Cruz documented a pattern of reduced community benefits, from 11 promised soccer fields in the 2019 referendum to an unnamed number in the 2022 agreement. Elisa Margulies connected the Marine Stadium and Freedom Park, urging commissioners to "start holding developers to their promises" and warning "the previous city manager was replaced for a reason."

Lobbyist Registrations

LobbyistPrincipalSubjectFiled
Angulo, Felipe
970 N.W. 8th Street Road, LLCbuilding demolition through appeal approval2026-02-12NEW
Angulo, Felipe
Informa Markets Art, LLCEvent holdings and long term commitments2026-02-11NEW
Angulo, Felipe
ORP Partners, LLCProject located at 24 SW 4th Street, Miami, FL2026-02-06NEW
Carbonell, Catherine M.
Vous Church, Incparking fee text amendment2026-02-17NEW
Conn, Micah
Kanso Coral Way, LLCDevelopment approvals for properties located at 2340 SW 32 Avenue, 3224-3232 SW 23 Street, 3209-3219 SW 23 Terrace, and 3231-3233 SW 23 Terrace2026-02-17NEW
Crisp, Sarah
VerizonMatters related to all wireless telecommunication issues2026-02-05NEW
Diaz, Jose F.
Serve Operating Company (Serve Robotics)Robot Delivery2026-02-09NEW
Dunkelberger, Wayne E.
Kanso Coral Way, LLCDevelopment approvals and related land use, zoning, and site plan approvals for property located at 2340 SW 32 Avenue, 3224-3232 SW 23 Street, 3209-3219 SW 23 Terrace, and 3231-3233 SW 23 Terrace2026-02-17NEW
Estime-Irvin, Mary
Acruva Community Development, IncAssist in meeting elected official and department heads about affordable housing development2026-02-25NEW
Fortuny, Karla
970 N.W. 8th Street Road, LLCbuilding demolition through appeal approval2026-02-12NEW
Fuentes, Guillermo
MG Regency Airport, LLCUDRB project presentation2026-02-18NEW
Garcia-serra, Mario J.
Decumanus Corporationproposed redevelopment of property located at 1021 SW 25th Avenue2026-02-18NEW
Groisman, Gabriel
Archistar, IncAI Permit Review Technology2026-02-01NEW
Korniloff, Nick
Informa Markets Art, LLCEvent Holdings and Long-term Commitments2026-02-06NEW
May, Brian
Informa Markets Art, LLCEvent holdings and long term commitments2026-02-11NEW
Muniz, Teresa
Decumanus Corporationproposed redevelopment of property located at 1021 SW 25th Avenue2026-02-18NEW
Prieguez, Manuel
Regal MarinaCode enforcement issues2026-02-17NEW
Pulido, Emilia
Serve Operating Company (Serve Robotics)Robot Delivery2026-02-09NEW
Salzverg, Joseph
Serve RoboticsOperation of food delivery robots within the City2026-02-18NEW
Schrieber, Mark
Kanso Coral Way, LLCDevelopment approvals for properties located at 2340 SW 32 Avenue, 3224-3232 SW 23 Street, 3209-3219 SW 23 Terrace, and 3231-3233 SW 23 Terrace2026-02-17NEW
Sherry, Benjamin
MG Regency Airport, LLCLand use and zoning matters for the property located at 1000 NW 42 Avenue2026-02-12NEW
Tapanes-llahues, Melissa
MG Regency Airport, LLCLand use and zoning matters for the property located at 1000 NW 42 Avenue2026-02-12NEW
Tovar, Andrea
Hoyden AIAI-Powered traffic enforcement technology to improve transit reliability and street safety2026-02-12NEW
Tovar, Andrea
Walmart, Inc., and its affiliated subsidiariesReal estate and land use2026-02-26NEW
Williams, James R.
Vous Church, IncParking fee text amendment2026-02-18NEW