1997-1211 Regular City Commission Meeting

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G. Commissioner Iglesias detailed the following facts regarding the likelihood of future coastal development in the City based on current structures: ' Of all buildings on the east side of Collins, 33% are motel conversions, and will probably never be converted to high -rises. Time shares comprise an additional 10 %. When that percentage is combined with the two public parks and the two condos under 11 Floors, a total of 48% of the land on the east side will not be developed into high -rises. If you add five moteliers that have been in business for generations and will probably continue in the business, the total is an additional 13 %. He concluded that the most high -rise development on the east side of Collins Avenue that might be built involves only 40% of the land. H. City Attorney Dannheisser asked for a consensus date to reschedule the Public Workshop for Zoning Issues. Tuesday, January 6, 1998, at 7:00 p.m. in the City Commission Chambers was selected as the date for the Public Workshop. Commissioner Iglesias noted that the traffic study being worked on by the Department of Transportation was progressing, and that a preliminary draft of the study was available. The final report should be ready within sixty days, and will include alternative recommendations to avoid pedestrian fatalities, such as fencing, barriers, and hand rails on 163rd Street. Mayor Samson noted that an economic development group is proposing to transform 163rd Street to make it similar to Harrison Street in Hollywood, with open air seating and eating. Commissioner Kauffman expressed concerns regarding the plight of the residents of the Intracoastal Apartments who are facing evictions. Mayor Samson empathized, but noted that the situation was a private landlord/tenant matter. He suggested that perhaps she might meet with the landlord to try to negotiate a better understanding of the tenants' concerns. Commissioner Morrow offered her assistance, and the City Attorney cautioned the Commissioners about any potential Sunshine Law issues. K. Commissioner Kauffman noted that a difficulty finding parking for the Commission meeting. L. Commissioner Morrow recommended designating Richard Schulman as the official volunteer City historian, to operate at his own expense. Mayor Samson suggested that additional thought be given to the proposal. rl. PUBLIC DISCUSSION A. Bob Giese suggested that the City purchase an alarm system for City Hall. page 10 of 11 - Minutes of the December 11, 1997, City Commission meeting