Minutes, March 16, 2008 Regular Meeting

MINUTES of
BELLE ISLE RESIDENTS ASSOCIATION (BIRA)
BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING
March 19, 2008
Meeting Room at 20 Island Avenue

Board Members Present
Barbara Cowen
Scott Diffenderfer
Barbara Frank
Herb Frank
Keith Hark
Sandra Money
Irene Sperber

Absent
David Ballard
Josh Fisher
Nancy Liebman
Rosemary Ravinal

Scott called the meeting to order at 6:07 p.m.

Approval of Minutes of February 6, 2008 Board Meeting
Herb made a motion to approve the Minutes as distributed. Irene seconded. The motion was approved unanimously.

Sandy noted that all Board members had been sent the Minutes of the February 6 Annual Meeting. Anyone with suggested changes to the draft should send those changes to Sandy. These Minutes will be approved at next year’s annual meeting.

Ongoing Business

New BIRA Membership
Irene introduced Barbara Cowan whose membership on the Board was approved by e-mail. Irene suggested that all Board members suggest that potential new members apply through the web site. Irene has provided the web site update to Josh and a full list of the Board members to a public relations consultant.

Street/Landscaping/Park Renovations and Pump Station Update
Scott reported having sent Carla a punch list of items still to be done. It was noted that the sprinklers are operational in the north end and the dog fences have begun. Scott will respond to comments about the park attributed to him out of context in a recent Miami Herald article. It was again agreed that any suggested changes be made after the park is turned over to the City.

Speed limit/slow/zone 14 parking signs; Commercial Parking Only signs in front of 9 and 11 Island
Scott has sent a list of needed signage to Carla. Zone 14 signs have now been put in front of The Standard and 20 mph signs at both ends of Island Avenue.
Sandy reported that, at an open meeting on the park, she offered to obtain the Move-In/Out hours for all of the building around the Park for Manny Marquez. She has done so, with the exception of Belle Plaza, but it was noted that delivery and emergency vehicles are not restricted to those hours. Barbara Frank made a motion that BIRA support the 24 hour Commercial Parking Only signs now in place. Keith seconded. The motion passed unanimously.

Venetian Causeway Update
It was noted that the Beautification effort is being delayed to accommodate the laying of a new power cable under one of the islands.

Litigation regarding transponder fee for Venetian Island Residents
It was reported that a resident of one of the islands is suing the county for imposing tolls to her home.

It was also noted that two speed lanes are being added to the I95 without access from the Julia Tuttle and during high season this year. It was agreed that we will investigate to determine if there is a group reflecting neighborhood associations involved in this effort, so that we can express our concerns about the timing and obtain a better understand the logistics.

Chabad House signage
Scott reported that the Chabad House Rabbi agreed to no signage when it was established. Lynn Bernstein reported that there is a code violation on record since 2006. She will follow-up on it.

Letter of support for proposed parking garage in Sunset Harbour neighborhood
Scott received unanimous support from the Board and will draft a letter, keeping in mind the concerns of the Sunset Harbour Association voiced by Marilyn Freundlich, who was so helpful in our organizing the Meet the Candidates evenings last fall.

Treasurer’s Report
Keith reported that BIRA received $461.60, mostly in Board contributions. BIRA has spent $61.60 for the web site and $70 for the incorporation, leaving the current bank balance at $330.00. It was agreed that residents will not be solicited for funding until there is a cause for which it is required.

New Business

Herb made a motion that we revise the By-Laws to reflect the incorporation. Barbara Frank seconded. Motion passed unanimously. Scott agreed to draft the revision for Board review.

Barbara Cowan asked about the progress in re-routing bus 123. Scott indicated that the Parking Committee was told that any revision to its route must include the Cultural Arts Center as well, requiring additional buses, drivers, etc.

Set Time and Day for the Next BIRA Board Meeting
It was suggested that the next Board Meeting be held during the day to accommodate Josh’s schedule. Since the next meeting may be the last before the “summer recess,” it was agreed that Scott would circulate proposed dates and times to all Members.

There being no further business, Keith made a motion that the meeting be adjourned. Irene seconded. The motion was approved unanimously and the meeting adjourned at 7:12 p.m.

Prepared by:
Sandra K. Money, Secretary

Bark Park

Belle Isle Park is getting a great dog park! It's not officially open, but they had a gate up (not the double-gated system yet), so Toby the Bichon Frisee, Jack the Rat Terrier, Bennie(?) the Beagle, and Mickey the Havanese had a great time! (Sorry about the cameraphone quality).

New BIRA Board Member

The BIRA Board welcomes new member Barbara Cowen, of 3 Island, elected to the board on February 26th.

The full board is listed at Belle Isle Residents Association Board of Directors.

(Belated Posting) December Minutes

(These slipped by without making to the website. - jf)

MINUTES of
BELLE ISLE RESIDENTS
ASSOCIATION (BIRA)
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
MEETING

December 19, 2007

Community Room at 3 Island Avenue

Board Members Present

Scott Diffenderfer

Josh Fisher

Barbara Frank

Herb Frank

Sandra Money

Irene Sperber

Guests:

Rosemary Ravinal-Ferrara

Herb called the meeting to order at 6:04 p.m.

Nominating Committee Report

Irene reported that she and her Committee have received resignations from Renee and Toby. They are in the process of preparing a slate for the annual meeting. It was agreed that Herb will send Building Managers a revised notice asking for residents to join the Board and will speak to the Management of the Vistas. Applications received by February 5 will be considered by the Committee.

Approval of Minutes of November 20, 2007 Board Meeting

Sandy made a motion to approve the Minutes as distributed. Barbara seconded. The motion was approved unanimously.

Ongoing Business

Park/Street Renovations - CIP Meeting 12/11/07

After discussion of the meeting, it was agreed that BIRA should continue to work on the list of items sent to Carla.

Venetian Causeway Update

Herb noted that some work is under way on the Causeway. Sandy noted that recent e-mails from Barbara Bisno to those in charge were very positive

Renovation along Dade Blvd. /Canal

Josh reported on a meeting of the Transportation Committee with City and County officials. He was told that the bicycle lane striping is based on Federal legislation, a copy of which has been promised. Alternatives to the west-bound traffic merge were considered and dismissed. The only open item currently is to shorten the light at 17^th Street and Dade Blvd.

Incorporation of BIRA

Herb reported that Keith has received $371.60 in funding from Board members. He spent $60.00 to renew the web site. Josh agreed that the balance is sufficient to move forward with the incorporation. Herb will check with a lawyer on the cost/complexity of incorporating as a 501(c)3 organization.

February 6, 2008 General Membership Meeting Agenda and Plans

Herb will prepare a notice for distribution. Items on the Agenda should be:

C I P Update on the Belle Isle Renovation project – Jorge Chartrand and Carla Dixon

Park Plan Update---invite John Oldenberg, Assistant Director

Venetian Causeway Update – Herb to contact Barbara Bisno for her recommendation

Nominating Committee presentation for the Slate and Election of Board Members.

The Mayor and the Commissioners are to be invited to the meeting, and time provided if any have remarks to make. Then the meeting will be adjourned and the first meeting of the new Board will take place, at which time the Officers will be elected.

New Business

It was suggested that the new Board schedule meetings with the Boards of buildings on the Island to discuss topics of interest, such as wind and storm insurance offerings now available. Rosemary has information on this insurance. All current Board members are requested to suggest such topics to Herb.

Set Time and Day for the Next BIRA Board Meeting

As noted above, the next Board Meeting will take place immediately after the February 6 General Meeting.

There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 6:48 p.m.

Prepared by:

Sandra K. Money, Secretary

Minutes, February 6, 2008 Regular Meeting (following annual meeting)

MINUTES of
BELLE ISLE RESIDENTS ASSOCIATION (BIRA)
BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING

February 6, 2008
Meeting Room at 20 Island Avenue

Board Members Present
David Ballard
Scott Diffenderfer
Josh Fisher
Barbara Frank
Herb Frank
Keith Hark
Sandra Money
Rosemary Ravinal
Irene Sperber

Absent
Nancy Liebman

Herb called the meeting to order at 8:22 p.m.

Approval of Minutes of December 19, 2007 Board Meeting
Barbara made a motion to approve the Minutes as distributed. Sandy seconded. The motion was approved unanimously.

New Business
Election of Officers for 2008
Herb nominated Scott as President. Keith seconded. The nomination was approved unanimously. Barbara nominated Keith, Sandy and Josh to their current positions as Treasurer, Secretary and Vice President. Rosemary seconded. The nominations were approved unanimously.

Other
It was suggested that, now that we are incorporated, changes be made to the By-Laws. Scott agreed to review them for possible change.

Set Time and Day for the Next BIRA Board Meeting
It was agreed that the next Board Meeting will be held at 6 p.m. on March 19, 2008 at 3 Island Ave.

Herb expressed his thanks to everyone serving on the Board for their support over the past four years.

There being no further business, Sandy made a motion that the meeting be adjourned. Keith seconded. The motion was approved unanimously and the meeting adjourned at 8:30 p.m.


Prepared by:
Sandra K. Money, Secretary

Minutes, February 6, 2008 Annual Meeting

MINUTES of
BELLE ISLE RESIDENTS ASSOCIATION

February 6, 2008
Meeting Room at 20 Island Avenue

Herb Frank called the meeting to order at 7:08 p.m. and called up Commissioner Jerry Libbin. Mr. Libbin introduced the concept of Dr. Morris Sunshine that the City endorse a private venture to establish a mooring field with incentives to lure transient boaters.

Commissioner Ed Tobin noted that he is supporting a stricter state ordinance keeping transient boaters further away from populated areas.
Herb then introduced Lynn Bernstein, (Community Outreach Coordinator for Belle Isle) and the Belle Isle Board Officers at the head table - Keith Hark, Treasurer, Sandy Money, Secretary, and Josh Fisher, Vice President and webmaster.

MINUTES OF THE JANUARY 18, 2007 MEMBERSHIP MEETING
Josh made a motion that the Minutes be approved; Keith seconded. The motion passed unanimously.

PRESIDENT'S REPORT
Herb reviewed the achievements of the Association in the four years of its existence, including the Residential parking designation, improvements of the Collins Canal, participation with the Venetian Causeway Association their efforts, and convincing the owners of The Standard to give up their efforts to expand their alcohol hours to 5 a.m.
Board Member Irene Sperber then presented Herb with a Parchment thanking him for his four years as President on behalf of the Board and members.

NOMINATING COMMITTEE REPORT
Committee Chair Irene Sperber noted that the Board is always interested in additional members and anyone interested in joining the Board should obtain the application from the web site and submit it. She thanked her Committee members Barbara Frank and Scott Diffenderfer and explained that the following Board Members have one year left in their two year terms: Scott Diffenderfer, Josh Fisher, Herb Frank, Barbara Frank, Nancy Liebman and Sandra Money. Those proposed by the Nominating Committee for two-year terms starting this evening are: David Ballard, Keith Hark, Rosemary Ravinal and herself. Keith made a motion to elect those individuals to a two-year term; Sandy seconded. The motion was approved unanimously.

BELLE ISLE RENOVATION PROJECT
Herb introduced Carla Dickson and Olivia Almagro-Johnson from the Capital Improvement Projects office and John Oldenburg from the City's Greenspace Management Division. They responded to many questions raised by meeting attendees. They agreed to replace garbage cans which disappeared, install 20 mph speed signs on Island Ave. North, and install SLOW signs where appropriate. Mr. Oldenburg described the watering allowed for the first 30 days after planting is completed and the 30 days thereafter. Ms. Dickson responded to those asking for major changes to the Park by providing the history of the project, the fact that it is due for completion in June or July and noting that no changes are precluded in the future once it is turned over to the City. Lynn noted that she will be the City contact at that time and urged those who want change to better understand the process for making change by attending the Neighborhood Leadership Academy.

Commissioner Deede Weithorn brought greetings and regrets from Mayor Bower, who could not attend the meeting due to a family illness. She noted that she chairs the G.O. Bond Committee meetings on the first Monday of every month. Those meetings provide an opportunity for those wanting changes made to be heard.

NEW BUSINESS

Keith noted that Belle Isle Residents Association was formed four years ago by a group of individuals who have obtained standing in the eyes of the City, but no legal status. As of January 2008 the Association has been incorporated as a non-profit corporation in the state of Florida. As treasurer, he noted that all expenses incurred to-date have been donated by Board Members. Now that the Association is incorporated, the Board members have donated over $400 to cover current and future costs, such as operating the web site. Residents are urged to help support it financially by completing forms available at this meeting and on the web ste.

Resident Barbara Cowan asked about the progress being made in changing the route of the 123 Bus so that it runs on Belle Isle en route to and from Washington Avenue. Josh Fisher, who is a member of the City's Transportation and Parking Committee, reported that they have been trying to make this happen, but it will require a renegotiation of the contract between the City of Miami Beach and Miami-Dade Transit. He believes that there may be a one-year trial of the new route at some point soon.
There being no further business, Herb adjourned the meeting at 8:17 p.m.

Prepared by:
Sandra K. Money

New BIRA Board

The Board of the Belle Isle Residents Association, as elected at the annual meeting, February 5th. Seated left-to-right: Barbara Frank, Scott Diffenderfer (President), Irene Sperber, Rosemary Ravinal. Standing: Josh Fisher (Vice-president & Webmaster), Herb Frank, Sandy Money (Secretary), Keith Hark (Treasurer). Not in photo, David Ballard, Nancy Liebman.

GENERAL MEETING OF THE BELLE ISLE RESIDENTS ASSOCIATION

ATTN: BELLE ISLE RESIDENTS!!!

YOU ARE CORDIALLY INVITED TO ATTEND A GENERAL MEETING OF THE BELLE ISLE RESIDENTS ASSOCIATION

Mayor Matti Bower to Address Residents

Open discussion with Commissioners

GET THE LATEST UPDATES ON:

• BELLE ISLE RENOVATION PROJECT -- M B C I P …. Presenting
• COLLINS CANAL RENOVATION.
• PLANNED BEAUTIFICATION OF VENETIAN CAUSEWAY.
• BELLE ISLE PARK PLANS
• NEW CANDIDATES FOR THE BIRA BOARD

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2008
7:00PM
20 ISLAND AVENUE MEETING ROOM

Meeting Concerning The Purdy Ave Boat Ramp

Miami International Boat Show
Use of the Purdy Avenue Boat Ramp Community Meeting
January 9th at 6pm
1900 Sunset Harbour Drive
MIAMIBEACH
Max A. Sklar, Director
TOURISM AND CULTURAL DEVELOPMENT

Mailing Address:
1700 Convention Center Drive, Miami Beach, FL 33139
Physical Address:
555 17th Street, Miami Beach, FL 33139

Tel: 305-673-7577 / Fax: 786-394-4560 /
www.miamibeachfl.gov/ www.visitmiamibeach.us/ www.mbculture.org/ www.eventsmiamibeach.com/ www.filmmiamibeach.com/ www.miamibeachfestivalofthearts.com / www.sleeplessnight.org
We are committed to providing excellent public service and safety to all who live, work and play in our vibrant, tropical, historic community.

Runners Coming Through Our Neighborhood

-------- Original Message --------

Subject:	ING Miami Marathon 1/27/08 Dade Blvd/Venetian details
Date:	Tue, 18 Dec 2007 13:15:31 -0500
From:	Kiley Lapointe
To:

Dear Friends and Neighbors,

Important Information about Runners Coming through your Neighborhood:

The ING Miami Marathon is the largest marathon in South Florida with 12,000 runners in 2007 and 15,000 expected for 2008. Since 2003, the weekend has generated over $87 million for our local economy. Race weekend includes a free Health & Fitness Expo, 5K Run/Walk (3.1 miles), a half marathon (13.1 miles) and a full marathon (26.2 miles).

When:

Sunday, January 27, 2008

Wheelchair Start: 6: 05 a.m.

Runner Start: 6:15 a.m.

Where:

Runners start & finish in Downtown Miami. The 26.2 mile race goes through Miami Beach, Brickell, the Grove and Downtown Miami.

Charity:

The ING Miami Marathon Weekend provides a medium for numerous charities to raise funds. Some of these charities include: the Community Partnership for Homeless, PANCAN, Achilles, National Hospice Foundation, Autism Research, Chai Lifeline, Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation, & Christina’s Kidz.

Cheer for Runners From Your Front Door!

To show your support, wake up Sunday morning and cheer for runners as they pass your home or business. Come to on of the ING Cheering Zones located near year for food and drinks and join others to encourage the athletes. Don’t be shocked if you see people you know running the race!

**Front Row Seats for Residents:

We encourage you to be creative by getting your neighbors to join you in a Sunday morning “race-side breakfast”! Make encouraging signs or posters, dress in funny costumes, play some music (only in later stages of the race course), and help these runners finish their 26.2 mile race. Make your neighborhood a memorable one for the runners.

Help us make the 6th annual ING Miami Marathon, the best marathon ever!

Your area details:

Dade Blvd/Venetian Causeway/Downtown Miami

Closest Water Stations:

Mile 8 (Venetian Causeway & Island Ave)

Mile 9 (Venetian Causeway & San Marco)

Mile 10 (Venetian Causeway & Venetian Dr)

Mile 11 (N. Miami Ave & NE 15 Street)

ING Cheering Zone located at:

Omni Center (NE 15 St. & Biscayne Blvd)

Cheer on runners in your neighborhood from:

6:30 – 9:20 a.m.

6:50 a.m. – 2 p.m. (Downtown Area)

Road Closures Affecting Your Area:

-Traffic Eastbound MacARTHUR Causeway

-Venetian Causeway Westbound

-NE 15 St

-Biscayne Blvd

*All intersections throughout will be adhering to intermittent traffic flow as directed by Miami Dade County Police Dept, City of Miami Police Dept and Miami Beach Police Dept. The flow of traffic will be guided during pockets/gaps between runner gaps, however, understand that during the earlier miles and earlier portion of the race the runners are more closely together.

For more information visit www.ingmiamimarathon.com or call 305-278-8668

Please plan ahead and expect some short delays. Thank you for your cooperation.

Kiley Lapointe

Logistics & Course Coordinator

305.278.8668 (Phone)

305.278.4166 (Fax)

PR Racing, Inc.

ING MIAMI MARATHON and HALF MARATHON

January 27, 2008

ingmiamimarathon.com

runmiami.com

Message from CIP On Park Construction Progress

Message from CIP

Planned Progress / Miami Beach

Happy Thanksgiving

As we strive to continue to make progress on the Belle Isle Right-of-way Improvement project, the following areas have been successfully completed:

• Pavement and parking stripping of two-way lanes along Island Avenue North is complete.
• Installation of the sidewalks along the north perimeter of the park as requested by residents is complete.
• Pavement and striping of the parking areas closest to the perimeter of the park is complete.
• Pavement and installation of sidewalks, curbs and gutters on Island Avenue South is complete.
• The light poles at the park's perimeter were installed and energized.

In observance of the Thanksgiving holiday, the contractor will not perform any construction activity on this day. Should you have any questions related to the construction, please contact the Community Information Coordinator, Olivia Almagro at (305) 673-7071. Once again, we thank you for your patience and cooperation during this process.

MIAMIBEACH
305.673.7071 | progress@miamibeachfl.gov | http://www.miamibeachfl.gov

Minutes, November 20, 2007

MINUTES of

BELLE ISLE RESIDENTS ASSOCIATION (BIRA)

BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING

November 20, 2007

Community Room at 3 Island Avenue

Board Members Present

Scott Diffenderfer
Josh Fisher
Barbara Frank
Herb Frank
Barbara Gillman
Keith Harke
Sandra Money

Guests: David Ballard, 6 Farrey Lane & Rosemary Ravinal-Ferrara, 11 Island Ave.

Herb called the meeting to order at 6:07 p.m. and introduced the guests to the Board Members.

Approval of Minutes of September 20, 2007 Board Meeting

Keith made a motion to approve the Minutes as distributed. Sandy seconded. The motion was approved unanimously.

Ongoing Business

Park/Street Renovations

It was noted that the landscaping across from the park is terrible and the lack of signage is a problem. C I P stated they wish to have a meeting with residents in early December. After discussion, it was agreed that Herb will ask for a meeting with CIP at 7 p.m. on either December 11or 12. These topics, the dog park and others will be discussed.

Venetian Causeway

Barbara Gillman noted that the opening of the bridge nearest Belle Isle is not on the hour/half hour schedule on week days. She agreed to contact the person in charge on behalf of BIRA.

Renovation along Collins Canal

Everyone was positive about the renovation, but concerned about the street markings. Josh noted that the fact that the bike path and west-bound merge are not working and has been brought to the attention of the City Engineer, who is pressing Miami- Dade county for appropriate changes. Josh will continue working on this.

Review of Candidates for Mayor/Commissioner Meetings

Those attending felt that both were excellent meetings. Sandy thanked Scott for organizing the space, Irene and Rosemary for preparing the signage and Marilyn Freundlich as co-sponsor and for obtaining Charles Perez as Moderator. It was agreed that Sandy will thank both Moderators in writing.

Notices for Residents about Joining the Board

In Irene’s absence, Barbara Frank reported that David and Rosemary had both completed applications for the Board and had been approved by the Nominating Committee for election to the Board at the annual meeting. We are sill seeking representatives from the Vistas and 5 Island. David will check on someone from the Vistas and Herb will ask the Managers, especially the one at 5 Island, to re-post the Notice about joining the Board.

Review of the Standard Hotel Activities

Herb thanked all who worked to convince the Standard to withdraw its request for a 5 a.m. liquor license.

Incorporation of BIRA

It was noted that there is a lack of legal standing and protection for Board Members without incorporation and that it will cost $100 and the annual fee is $60.00. Keith made a motion that we incorporate in the state of Florida. Josh seconded. The motion passed unanimously. Josh agreed to check that the name Belle Isle Residents Association, Inc. is available and will complete the paperwork available online without the need for legal counsel. Sandy volunteered to be named Manager, using her 1521 Alton Road address – the UPS store, where all mail is accepted and her box is checked daily during the winter and weekly during the summer. Herb will send a note to all Board Members asking for a $25 contribution – or more or less, depending on their comfort level – to be sent to Keith. Keith will open a bank account for the corporate entity at Wachovia. Sandy advised the bank will allow this for a month prior to actual incorporation. It was agreed that there is no need for Directors and Officers Liability Insurance at this point in time. It was agreed to give Josh $60. for the annual website expense from the Board contributions.

Disturbing Noises on Belle Isle

Herb noted that the pumping station noises had been resolved.

No one believes that The Standard has been creating disturbing noises.

20 Island – Scott noted that they are getting a new chiller, which should significantly reduce the noises heard by some residents at the Grand Venetian.

Barbara Gillman reported that every Sunday the Flamingo Hotel has parties from noon until evening that are heard at buildings on Belle Isle. It was agreed that she would research the name of the person in the City concerned with noise levels and contact him/her.

New Business

2008 General Membership Meeting Date and Plans

After discussion, it was agreed that the meeting should be held after the annual meetings of the Belle Isle buildings. The Meeting will be held at 7 p.m. on February 6, 2008 at 20 Island. Scott was asked to book the room for the meeting.

2008 Slate and Nominations to the Board

It was agreed that this will be discussed at the next Board meeting.

Set Time and Day for the Next BIRA Board Meeting

It was agreed that the next Board Meeting will be held at 6 p.m. on December 19, 2007.

There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 7:13 p.m.

Prepared by:

Sandra K. Money, Secretary

Serious FICUS Hedge White Fly Infestation

From: Cheryl Jacobs [zyscovich]
Sent: Thursday, November 15, 2007 11:51 AM
Subject: FICUS HEDGES LOSING LEAVES
Importance: High

Dear Board Members:

You might have noticed that our ficus hedges (as well as many along the
Venetian and throughout the county) have lost their leaves. It is because
of a serious ficus infestation of white fly throughout the county. Please
see below the information that is on the City of Miami's website. FYI, one
of the best natural ways of controling whitefly is ladybugs! We can buy
them online for about $20 and release them
(http://www.ehow.com/how_9373_release-ladybugs-garden.html) if we really
want to be green!!!

But in any event, we should not allow our landscapers to spray chemicals at
this point. I noticed that the lawn was sprayed and I hope they did not
also spray the bushes. Happy Thanksgiving. CJ


http://www.miamigov.com
http://www.miamigov.com/cms/comm/1724_4531.asp


Spotlight On...

Recommendations for the Whitefly Infestation NEW!

Ficus Trees and Fig Whitefly Info. NEW!

FL Dept. of Agriculture Pest Alert: Ficus Trees NEW!
Recommendations from City of Miami Regarding the Current Whitefly
Infestation
of Ficus Trees

For the next six months (until the end of April), the City of Miami is
recommending only natural controls for the current whitefly infestation of
ficus trees. After six months we will reevaluate the situation. Six months
will allow beneficial/predacious insects to control the whitefly population
We do not recommend spraying trees in urban areas as this will kill
beneficial insects, increase the likelihood of future infestations, and
endanger the public. This is consistent with recommendations from arborists
and agencies which we have consulted.

Public Works will not be issuing any tree removal permits for ficus trees
infested by whiteflies. This position is due to the likelihood of the
trees surviving the infestation. If a property owner(s) would like to
remove a dead infested tree, Public Works will proceed as per the Tree
Ordinance. As part of the removal application, Public Works will also
provide a list of recommended trees that will increase the variety of tree
species throughout the City and so that future infestations would be less
drastic.

For container plants and small hedges, we recommend an insecticidal soap
treatment which can be purchased at most garden centers. If community
members lose hedges, we recommend they replace them with native hedges such
as cocoplum or stoppers. For further information please contact your local
NETarea office, or the Public Works department at 305-416-1200.

Construction Update from CIP

Subject: RE: any updates?

From: "Dixon, Carla"

Date: Tue, 6 Nov 2007 10:43:48 -0500

To:

CC: , "Almagro-Johnson, Olivia"

Herb,

The paving of the roadway at Belle Isle as well as the driveway aprons mention is in progress, and complete is some areas. The first lift of asphalt has been placed in the westbound travel lane and is being placed in the eastbound next to the parking isle (already paved and striped). We anticipate that the entire first lift will be completed by Thursday or Friday of this week weather permitting. We are also planning to meet with the residents prior to Thanksgiving. However, we are working on dates since internally we have several other community meetings to schedule around the same time. The landscaping is being installed, street lighting functional and sidewalks in place. We are almost there!. I'll send you some photos from Friday or so in a separate e-mail. Thanks.

Candidate Meetings (Mayor and Commissioner)

YOU ARE CORDIALLY INVITED TO ATTEND
TWO MEETINGS

THE CANDIDATES FOR
MIAMI BEACH MAYOR
OCTOBER 15, 2007 7 TO 9 PM
20 ISLAND AVENUE
FIRST FLOOR MEETING ROOM
BELLE ISLE
GERALD POSNER, MODERATOR

THE CANDIDATES FOR
MIAMI BEACH COMMISSIONER
OCTOBER 22, 2007 7 TO 9 PM
20 ISLAND AVENUE
FIRST FLOOR MEETING ROOM
BELLE ISLE
CHARLES PEREZ, MODERATOR

COME AND HEAR THEIR LATEST VIEWS AND OPINIONS

Q & A WITH THE CANDIDATES
GET ANSWERS TO YOUR QUESTIONS
BECOME AN INFORMED VOTER

SPONSORED BY THE RESIDENTS ASSOCIATIONS OF BELLE ISLE AND SUNSET HARBOUR

Minutes, September 20, 2007

Minutes of Belle Isle Residents Association
Board Meeting
September 20, 2007
Community Room at 3 Island Avenue

Board members present
Scott Diffenderfer
Josh Fisher
Herb Frank (Via phone @ 6:20)
Barbara Frank (Via phone @ 6:20)
Keith Hark arrived at 6:21
Sandy Money
Irene Sperber

Guests
Juan Duarte
Marilyn Freundlich arrived at 6:28

Sandy Money called the Meeting to order at 6:13 pm
Scott Diffenderfer agreed to take Minutes

Ongoing business
– Park and street renovations. Josh presented letter from CIP regarding ongoing park and street renovations and reported that bump outs had been removed again because of damage from FPL trucks which was out of the contractors’ control. The electric for light posts is being installed and that within the next 8-10 weeks light posts would be installed, bumpouts will be completed and ready for planting and the streets will finally be repaved. The letter from the CIP has been posted on the website and has been distributed to the resident e mailing list.

– Candidates for Mayor and Commissioner meetings. Sandy sent out 2 letters with date, location and time to candidates and got responses from everyone except for Simon Cruz and Rafael Herman. The meeting for Mayoral candidates will occur from 7-9 pm on October 15 for the mayoral candidates at Sunset Harbour on 7th floor of North Tower, if Juan can arrange that. The meeting for the Commissioner candidates will be held Monday October 22 7:00-9:00 pm at 20 Island Ave. Two additional people, Ed Tobin and William Charles Smatt, have announced their candidacy since the original letters went out. It was suggested that we have a moderator for each meeting. Suggestions have been Michael Putney and Charles Perez. Sandy asked Juan to contact Charles Perez, since he lives at Sunset Harbour South, to see if he can moderate the Mayoral meeting and see if Charles will ask Michael Putney to moderate the commissioner candidates meeting. Sandy suggested each candidate should get a few minutes and then moderator will moderate questions for the candidates from the audience. It was agreed that no questions are needed in advance, as the audiences will be interested individuals. Sandy will follow up with candidates to let them know how the evenings will be conducted. Marilyn will attend the South of Fifth Neighborhood association mayor/commission meeting to see how the meeting goes and report back to Sandy. Marilyn will contact Sunset Islands resident association, West Avenue and Bay Road Associations to invite them to the meetings. Sandy will ask Barbara Bisnos to distribute to Venetian Island residents.

– Standard Hotel. The next hearing for the Standard is scheduled for 9 am on November 2 for conditional liquor license. Sandy asked board members to send comments on position paper to Herb for revision. Once revised she will give Juan BIRA’s position paper to distribute to Sunset Harbour Residents.

New Business
– Board member resignations. Josh reported that some board members have resigned and there are currently 9 active board members. Irene has distributed notice for new members to apply and will ask Herb to send to all property managers to post in all buildings.

– Alton Road plans. Irene attended FDOT Alton Road meeting on Sept. 11 to represent BIRA. She reported that there was no oral presentation by FDOT and that the meeting did not allow much resident participation. She distributed a synopsis of the meeting which is attached to these minutes.

– Renovations along Dade Blvd. Canal. No one is aware of any news, but it was decided keep the issue on upcoming agenda to keep abreast of the situation.

– Approval of minutes from last meeting. Barbara and Herb called in and Josh motioned to approve minutes from prior meeting, Sandy seconded. The minutes were approved unanimously.

– Incorporation for BIRA. Sandy suggested BIRA incorporate in Delaware since it was easy and inexpensive. Keith will ask an attorney what the implications of incorporating out of Florida and will report his findings. Josh offered to do internet work for incorporation in Florida, but not in Delaware and will await Keith’s findings.

– Pumping Station Noise. The loud pumping station noise was discussed and apparently noise will only be during testing of generators twice per month for a few hours.

– Next BIRA meeting called for Thursday, November 15.

– Josh moved to adjourn, Keith seconded. Meeting was adjourned at 7:37.



FDOT - ALTON ROAD STUDY PUBLIC MEETING SEPT 11th

There was no oral Presentation. Graphs and charts were provided along with City representatives present to answer questions as residents milled about the information boards.

The graphs and charts were as follows:

1) PROJECT NEEDS (to be addressed in study) - Traffic Congestion, Safety, Bicycle Facilities, Flooding, Poor Condition of Roadway, Absence of Transit Facilities, Pedestrian/ADA Deficiencies, Landscaping, On-Street Parking.
2) Alton/5th St. Underpass – FDOT is questioning whether or not to eliminate the flyover as well as addressing the issue of eliminating the median strip at the end of the flyover (@ 6th St), because of numerous accidents.
3) ACCESS MANAGEMENT – Considering restricting left turn lanes in accident prone cross streets to Alton Road from 5th Street to Upper Michigan St.
4) PROJECT SCHEDULE – Design Analysis scheduled to complete end of Nov., Engineering analysis is going on now until the end of Feb., Preliminary Engineering Report due the end of April. Alternative Analysis now until the end of Feb., Public Involvement will be until the end of June ’08. The next Meeting will also be a Public Hearing sometime in the spring of ‘08. Review and Receive plan approval from May until August ’08.
5) LEVEL OF SERVICE - FDOT will be grading the conditions and waiting times in various intersections. Several intersections were graded “F”, particularly in the morning rush hour. There have been approximately 90 crashes per year for the years 2001-2005 at 5th and Alton. 17th and Alton is the next highest crash site.
6) PROPOSED OPTIONS
a) 5 Lanes w/ Parking Lane & Bicycle Lane or 5 Lanes w/ Parking Lane & NO Bicycle Lane (bike lane located between parking lane & street)
b) 4 Lanes w/Median, Parking Lane & Bike Lane or 4 Lanes w/ Median, Parking Lane and NO Bike Lane
c) 4 Lanes w/ 14’ Median, Parking Lane & bike Lane or 4 Lanes w/14’ Median, Parking Lane and NO Bike Lane
d) 6 Lanes w/14’ Median & Exclusive Bus Lane
e) 6 Lanes w/14’ Median



-2-

The most popular choice appeared to be c) , followed by b). There will be no street widening; the entire change will be from one inside edge of sidewalk line (next to the buildings) to the other.
Lane sizes will vary from 11’-12’ Car Lanes. Bike Lanes will be 5’. Sidewalks will be 6.5’ and the Parking Lane is slated for an 8’ width.
Many people believe that a Bike Lane on Alton is not a good idea; rather place a Bicycle Lane on a nearby street.

Venetian Causeway Toll Increase

The NON PROPERTY OWNER, OR COMMUTER Pass will increase from the current $60 per year to $90 per year. The new price will probably be in effect on October 15. If you currently have a valid pass, it is good until April 30, 2008. We will not be charging current pass holders any additional charges for their passes.

The PROPERTY OWNER rate is not changing at this time. It will remain at $24 per year.

The basic cash rate will be $1.50, also effective October 15.

Michael R Bauman, Chief
Causeways Division
Miami-Dade County Public Works
Voice (305) 854-2468
Fax (305) 859-2241
mikeb@miamidade.gov

Update & Schedule for Street Improvements From The City of Miami Beach

Dear Belle Isle Residents.

Below is an update from C I P on the renovation project which has been taking Belle Isle apart. Hopefully positive things will happen as outlined. This has been a tough project. We are all hoping that the finished product is going to be wonderful and we all want it to end asap.

Sincerely,
Belle Isle Residents Association

Subject:
RE: Belle Isle renovations
From: "Dixon, Carla"
Date: Thu, 20 Sep 2007 17:21:39 -0400
To: "Herb Frank"
CC: "Chartrand, Jorge" , "Gonzalez-Pola, Mario"

Herb,

FPL recently completed the installation of new duct bank and service manhole at Island Avenue South. They have demobilized and left the City's contractor with the task of repairing the bump outs damaged by their heavy equipment. The bump outs were taken out to make the changes requested by the residents, adjusted due to unforeseen conditions, and again replaced due to damage by "others". Please bear with us as we are scheduled to start repaving the street within the coming weeks. In the interim, our contractor continues to do his best to maintain traffic, signage, water down and sweep the streets at the end of each workday.

Currently, the electrical wiring for the streetlights is being installed, within the next several weeks residents can expect to see the poles being installed, the bump-outs prepared for plantings, and the street being repaved. Our goal is to have this completed within the next eight to ten weeks. The Installation of the pump station and storm drainage system will be completed while we start with the landscaping activities, and restoration of the park itself. This work within the park itself is anticipated to continue through July of 2008.

Thank you for your patience.

Construction Photos, 9/18/07

Irene Sperber, a member of the BIRA board, took a series of photos of the construction today. They are at the link below (and, yes, they show another bump-out being removed!).

PHOTOS

September 20, 2007 Board Meeting Agenda

Belle Isle Residents Association Board Meeting
September 20, 2007 6.00 PM
3 Island Avenue

AGENDA

Approval of Minutes of May 8, 2007 Board Meeting

Ongoing Business:

- Park/Street Renovations
- Venetian Causeway
- Renovation along Dade Blvd/Canal
- Planning for Presentations by Candidates for Mayor/Commissioner
- Notices for Residents about Joining the Board

New Business:

- Review of the Standard Hotel Activities
- Incorporation of the BIRA
- Disturbing noises on Belle Isle….Pumping station, Standard, 20 Island

Set time and day for the next B I R A Board Meeting

Adjourn Meeting