Development News for Homestead, Florida

Homestead to Cover 50% of Building Permit Fees for Sports Fields Project

The council passed a resolution authorizing the city manager to pay or reimburse 50% of eligible building permit fees in connection with the construction of sports fields and recreational improvements on a parcel leased by the city to BSGS Facilities LLC. This authorization is part of the public-private partnership for the sports hub project, aiming to offset development costs for the partner who is investing significantly in infrastructure. Councilman Fletcher, who proposed the item, emphasized the $250 million investment by the partner and the public use of the facility, stating that if the city were performing the work itself, it would not charge permit fees. Councilwoman Avala expressed initial concerns about this being a change to the original agreement but ultimately supported it, noting the city's need for funds. Mayor Lawson clarified that this applies solely to the green field portion of the project and is intended as a collaborative effort.

Homestead Declares Personal Property Surplus, Authorizes Sale

The council passed a resolution declaring certain city-owned personal property as surplus and authorizing the city manager to sell or dispose of it according to city code section 2-440. This resolution allows the city to properly divest itself of unneeded assets.

Small Business Owner Appeals Signage Citation Issues, Seeks Solution for A-Frame Signs

The council heard from Robert Hazard, owner of Quaazar Computers, regarding issues with citations for his A-frame sign. Hazard reported being cited multiple times for the sign, first for being on a right-of-way and subsequently for being on his private property, with threats of significant daily fines. He cited conflicting information from code enforcement and promises from an assistant city manager. Hazard argued that small businesses like his are crucial to Homestead's growth and should receive comparable benefits to larger corporations. He believes a one-year delay for A-frame signs, as proposed in an upcoming ordinance (Tab 3), is insufficient and requests a more permanent solution or indefinite delay. The council acknowledged the issue is separate from the window signage ordinance being discussed and that A-frame signs on private property may be subject to regulations like setbacks, with specific details about Hazard's situation requiring further review by the assistant city manager.

Homestead Moves to Annex Unincorporated Residential Properties to Square City Boundaries

The Homestead City Council considered a resolution to initiate the process of annexing certain unincorporated properties into the city. The resolution, proposed by Councilwoman Ksky, aims to 'square off' the city's boundaries, particularly in areas where recent developments (Aspen West, LAR project) have included homes just outside the city limits but adjacent to existing Homestead neighborhoods and utilities. The proposed annexation includes three specific parcels: Aspen West property, LAR project area, and a parcel adjacent to Fred Rhodes' former property on 21st Street. Councilwoman Ksky proposed amending the resolution to include four additional residences to the north to further square off the block. The rationale includes simplifying service provision (police, utilities) and potentially increasing tax revenue, especially from newer homes valued above the $250,000 exemption threshold. Concerns were raised about potential liabilities and the process, but the council ultimately voted to direct the city manager to begin preparing the formal request to Miami-Dade County for the boundary change.