Coral Gables meeting summaries, agendas, and minutes

Coral Gables board approves recertification fines; cinema contract and zoning amendments ahead

The Coral Gables Construction Regulation Board was the only city body to record decisions in the past two weeks, approving recertification requirements and daily fines for four properties at its Oct. 19 meeting. All of the recorded votes were 4-0. Every other meeting in the period was published as an agenda only, with minutes not yet available, so no outcome is established for those items here.

Construction Regulation Board: recertification fines approved

The board approved a $500 daily fine for 280 Alhambra Cir if the property is not recertified within 60 days (4-0). It also approved recertification requirements and a $250 daily fine for each of three properties: 1569 Sunset Dr, 730 Coral Way and 234 Antiquera Ave, each on a 4-0 vote.

The board approved its Sept. 14, 2026 meeting minutes 4-0. Hearings for 1021 Hardee Rd and 101 Antiquera Ave were deferred, and the board noted compliance prior to the hearing for 216 Calabria Ave.

City Commission: zoning amendments and contracts were on the Oct. 13 agenda

The Oct. 13 City Commission agenda listed public hearings on three proposed ordinances amending the Official Zoning Code — height restrictions in the Crafts Section, Mediterranean architecture design, and driveway setbacks. The agenda also listed a contract with Carivon Construction Co. for 427 Biltmore Way interior alterations estimated at $371,104; an interlocal agreement with the Miami-Dade Transportation Planning Organization for a $60,000 Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan; a contract award to Fire Code Pro, Inc. for Fire Plan Review Services; and a discussion regarding ground-level businesses and a ramp at the Mobility Hub. Minutes have not been published, so the outcome of these items is not established.

Other boards: agendas only

The Code Enforcement Board's Oct. 14 agenda listed public hearings on unpermitted plumbing work at 2201 Ponce de Leon Boulevard, unpermitted pool deck and electrical work at 850 San Pedro Avenue, unauthorized gravel installation on a city swale at 512 Altara Avenue, unpermitted interior demolition at historic property 611 North Greenway Dr, and lien intent hearings for 3620 Granada Boulevard and 2000 Ponce de Leon Blvd.

The Historic Preservation Board's Oct. 15 agenda included an ad valorem tax relief request for 4100 Monserrate Street, historic designation and garage construction at 605 Navarre Avenue, designation and residence alterations at 825 Almeria Avenue, demolition of a residence and new two-story construction at 1721 Columbus Boulevard, and a two-story addition and alterations at 711 University.

The Cultural Development Board's Oct. 20 agenda listed a new acquisition proposal for a Richard Serra piece (SERRA 1989-Fin). The Transportation Advisory Board's Oct. 20 agenda listed trolley funding and ridership numbers, traffic concerns at Ponce de Leon Blvd. & US-1 and Ponce de Leon Blvd. & Bird Road, a Scramble Intersection Study and citywide traffic calming.

Agendas were also published for the Merrick House Governing Board, Communications Committee, Property Advisory Board, Mayor's Citizens Advisory Council, Board of Architects, Coral Gables Retirement Board, School Community Relations Committee, Coral Gables Waterfront Communities HOA Board, Library Advisory Board and Parking Advisory Board.

Coming up

The Board of Adjustment meets Oct. 26 on a variance request for 717, 729, 737 and 741 Valencia Avenue that would allow an 8.5-foot interior side setback instead of the required 10 feet.

The City Commission meets Oct. 27 with a contract award to Hycon Investments, LLC for the Art Cinema Expansion Project in an estimated amount of $1,239,900.00, three zoning amendments, and permission for the Coral Gables Firefighter's Benevolent Association to sell Christmas trees at 5501 Granada Boulevard.

The Board of Architects meets Oct. 29 for a design review consideration (Item 26-2258). The Development Review Committee meets Oct. 30 on a proposed relocation of the WVUM radio antenna to the Richter Library building at 1300 Memorial Drive and a conditional use request for a Bed & Breakfast called "Jardin del Zamora" at 131 Zamora Ave; per the agenda, the committee does not make final approvals or decisions during these meetings. The Coral Gables Advisory Board on Disability Affairs meets Nov. 4.

Zoning amendments, contracts and a Serra proposal filled Coral Gables agendas; minutes not yet posted

Coral Gables boards and committees met 19 times in the past two weeks, taking up zoning amendments, construction contracts, historic designations and a proposed Richard Serra acquisition. The records available for those meetings are agendas only; minutes have not been published, so no votes, approvals or final outcomes can be reported here. What follows is what each body was scheduled to consider. The city's official agenda and minute documents remain the authoritative record.

City Commission weighed zoning changes and contracts

The City Commission met October 13 with public hearings scheduled on three proposed ordinances amending the Official Zoning Code — covering height restrictions in the Crafts Section, Mediterranean architecture design, and driveway setbacks. Also listed: a contract with Carivon Construction Co. for interior alterations at 427 Biltmore Way, estimated at $371,104; an interlocal agreement with the Miami-Dade Transportation Planning Organization for a $60,000 Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan; a contract award to Fire Code Pro, Inc. for Fire Plan Review Services; and a discussion of ground-level businesses and a ramp at the Mobility Hub. Whether the commission acted on any item is not established by the available record.

Serra acquisition proposal goes before two arts panels

The Arts Advisory Panel met October 7 with new business item 26-2209, a Richard Serra acquisition proposal (listed as SERRA 1989-Fin on the Cultural Development Board agenda). The Cultural Development Board is scheduled to take up the same proposal October 20, along with cultural grant updates for 2025-2026 and 2026-2027 and a review of Art in Public Places project lists.

Variances, designations and code cases

The Board of Adjustment met October 5 on two variance requests: a new dock extending 25 feet into the waterway at 361 Los Pinos Place, versus the 5-foot maximum under Zoning Code Section 3-702(A), deferred from the September 14 meeting; and an 8.5-foot interior side setback at 717, 729, 737 and 741 Valencia Avenue, versus the 10-foot minimum under Section 2-105(D)(4)(b)(ii).

The Historic Preservation Board met October 15 with an ad valorem tax relief request for 4100 Monserrate Street; historic designation and garage construction or alterations at 605 Navarre Avenue; designation and residence alterations at 825 Almeria Avenue; demolition of a residence and new two-story construction at 1721 Columbus Boulevard; and a two-story addition and alterations at 711 University.

The Code Enforcement Board met October 14 on unpermitted plumbing work at 2201 Ponce de Leon Boulevard, unpermitted pool deck and electrical work at 850 San Pedro Avenue, gravel installed on a city swale at 512 Altara Avenue, unpermitted interior demolition at 611 North Greenway Dr, and lien intent hearings for 3620 Granada Boulevard and 2000 Ponce de Leon Blvd.

Parks, events and economic development

The Parks and Recreation Advisory Board met October 8 on the Youth Center Master Plan, construction updates for Granada Rain Shelters and Country Club Pool Deck, the Phillips Park soft opening, construction contract awards for Rotary and Cooper Parks, and the October-December special events schedule. The Landscape Beautification Advisory Board heard a presentation on Ponce Circle Park plans.

The Economic Development Board met October 7 on a business visitation survey, updates on Taste the Gables, Workforce Recovery and City Beautiful Nights, and a business tax license report — items listed for discussion, with no votes or dollar amounts on the agenda. The Parks and Recreation Youth Advisory Board met October 7 on selection of a Chairperson, Vice Chairperson and Board-as-a-Whole Member, and listed the Pumpkin Patch on October 17, 2:00-6:00 p.m.; the Youth Center Haunted House on October 30, 6:30-9:30 p.m.; and the Holiday Tree Lighting on December 4, 5:00-10:00 p.m.

Coming up

• **October 19 — Construction Regulation Board:** updates on 1021 Hardee Rd and 280 Alhambra Cir, plus new cases at 101 Antiquera Ave, 1569 Sunset Dr, 730 Coral Way, 216 Calabria Ave and 234 Antiquera Ave.
• **October 20 — Transportation Advisory Board:** trolley funding and ridership numbers, traffic concerns at Ponce de Leon Blvd. & US-1 and Ponce de Leon Blvd. & Bird Road, the Scramble Intersection Study and citywide traffic calming.
• **October 20 — Waterfront Communities HOA Board:** a presentation on Luminsea Channel Markers, mangrove trimming in Cocoplum, and a discussion with Mayor Lago on e-bike concerns.
• **October 21 — Library Advisory Board:** a Villagers funding application for wooden door restoration at the Coral Gables Branch Library, a Florida historical marker location, and Miami-Dade capital updates.
• **October 21 — Parking Advisory Board:** residential parking discount, mobility hub, and equipment and technology updates.
• **October 30 — Development Review Committee:** relocation of the WVUM radio antenna to the Richter Library building at 1300 Memorial Drive, and a conditional use request for a Bed & Breakfast called "Jardin del Zamora" at 131 Zamora Ave. Per the agenda, the committee does not make final approvals or decisions.

Coral Gables agenda watch: UM expansion package, FY 2026-2027 budget, and Oct. 13 zoning votes

Coral Gables' City Commission scheduled votes on the fiscal year 2026-2027 budget and a six-part University of Miami campus expansion package at meetings in late September, and returns Oct. 13 with three zoning amendments and several contracts. None of the meetings summarized here have published minutes, so no votes or outcomes are confirmed. The items below come from official agendas.

Budget and tax ordinances (Sept. 29)

The City Commission's second budget hearing for FY 2026-2027 was set to include a presentation, public comment, and votes on an ordinance levying taxes for the fiscal year beginning Oct. 1, 2026, and an ordinance adopting the annual budget of estimated revenues and expenditures. The agenda also listed a resolution adopting the Capital Improvement Program for FY 2027-2031. No dollar figures appear in the summary provided.

University of Miami expansion package (Sept. 29)

A regular meeting the same day listed six related items, E-3 through E-8, that would amend the Comprehensive Plan and Zoning Code to allow the University of Miami to expand its campus. According to the agenda summary, the measures would increase the maximum Floor Area Ratio, add hospital and retail uses, modify district boundaries, amend a development agreement, and review a master plan.

Also on that agenda: Ordinance E-2, to allow restaurants with 120 or more seats to serve alcohol from bars, and Ordinance E-1, creating a Coral Gables Youth Leadership Council to replace the Parks and Recreation Youth Advisory Board.

Consent items included a Florida Department of Transportation agreement for $60,340 for turf and landscape maintenance on S.R. 5, 976 and 959, and sculpture installations including a $90,000 transfer and emergency procurements of $53,500 and $92,027.

Oct. 13 City Commission

The commission is scheduled to hold public hearings on three proposed amendments to the Official Zoning Code: height restrictions in the Crafts Section, Mediterranean architecture design, and driveway setbacks. Contracts on the agenda include one with Carivon Construction Co. for interior alterations at 427 Biltmore Way, estimated at $371,104, and an interlocal agreement with the Miami-Dade Transportation Planning Organization for a $60,000 Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan. The agenda also lists a contract award to Fire Code Pro, Inc. for fire plan review services and a discussion of ground-level businesses and a ramp at the Mobility Hub.

Variances and code cases

The Board of Adjustment was scheduled to meet Oct. 5 on two variance requests: a new dock extending 25 feet into the waterway at 361 Los Pinos Place, where 5 feet is the maximum under Zoning Code Section 3-702(A), deferred from the Sept. 14 meeting; and an 8.5-foot interior side setback at 717, 729, 737 and 741 Valencia Avenue, where 10 feet is required under Section 2-105(D)(4)(b)(ii).

The Code Enforcement Board meets Oct. 14 on unpermitted plumbing work at 2201 Ponce de Leon Boulevard, unpermitted pool deck and electrical work at 850 San Pedro Avenue, unauthorized gravel installation on a city swale at 512 Altara Avenue, and unpermitted interior demolition at 611 North Greenway Dr. Lien intent hearings are listed for 3620 Granada Boulevard and 2000 Ponce de Leon Blvd.

Parks, arts and other boards

A Senior Citizens Advisory Board agenda for Oct. 1 listed a manager's report stating Granada Rain Shelters construction is anticipated to begin within 30 days, a Phillips Park soft opening with a formal ribbon cutting to follow, construction contracts awarded for Rotary and Cooper Parks (no dollar amounts given), and Country Club Pool Deck construction anticipated in November.

The Arts Advisory Panel met Oct. 7 with new business on a Richard Serra acquisition proposal. The Historic Preservation Board meets Oct. 15 on an ad valorem tax relief request for 4100 Monserrate Street and historic designations at 605 Navarre Avenue and 825 Almeria Avenue, among other items.

Coming up

• **Oct. 13** — City Commission: zoning amendments, contracts, Mobility Hub discussion.
• **Oct. 14** — Code Enforcement Board; Property Advisory Board (October rent reports, Cabana Chic pop-up); Communications Committee.
• **Oct. 15** — Historic Preservation Board; Mayor's Citizens Advisory Council; Coral Gables Retirement Board; Board of Architects.
• **Oct. 21** — Parking Advisory Board: residential parking discount, mobility hubs, holiday schedule proposal.

University of Miami expansion, code enforcement fines top Coral Gables board agendas

This week's Coral Gables board meetings covered a wide range of topics, from a proposed University of Miami campus expansion to code enforcement fines. No decisions have been published yet, as minutes from the meetings are pending.

University of Miami expansion

The Planning and Zoning Board held a public hearing on six related University of Miami proposals, including comprehensive plan and zoning code amendments, a future land use map change, zoning district boundary adjustments, a restated development agreement, and a conditional use review for the campus master plan. The board also considered a separate text amendment to the zoning code regarding development agreement durations. These items are recommendations to the City Commission, which holds final decision authority.

Code enforcement and construction

The Code Enforcement Ticket Hearing reviewed several property violations, including:

• 5001 Maggiore Street: Prohibited short-term rental with a $500 daily running fine
• 3247 Riviera Drive: Right-of-way obstruction including rebar ($500.00)
• 625 Tiziano Avenue: Improper pruning of Sea Grape tree ($500.00)
• 60 Coral Way: Flashing neon sign on storefront window ($100.00)
• 131 Zamora Avenue: Prohibited short-term rental with a $250 daily running fine

The Construction Regulation Board heard an appeal of fines for 1021 Hardee Rd, conducted second hearings/updates on nine properties including 4800 Le Jeune Rd and 1545 Cantoria Ave, and introduced two new cases at 13637 Deering Bay Dr and 123 Zamora Ave.

Other board meetings

The Economic Development Board discussed financial institutions on Miracle Mile, business licensing updates, and downtown partnerships. The Waterways Advisory Board reviewed mangrove enforcement actions. The Historic Preservation Board considered designating 1307 Lisbon Street as a local historic landmark and reviewed two Special Certificates of Appropriateness for additions and alterations at 1137 Obispo Avenue and 1116 Alberca Street, both with requested zoning variances. The Cultural Development Board reviewed a donation proposal for a Bernard Wolfson Bench at The Underline. The Retirement Board reviewed investment reports and heard presentations from investment advisors. Several boards—including Parking Advisory, Disability Affairs, Senior Citizens, Youth Advisory, Parks and Recreation, and Merrick House—handled routine or informational items.

Coming up

• **Budget/Audit Advisory Board** (Aug. 19): Update from RSM external auditors, FY 2027 budget process update, approval of FY 2026 annual report.
• **Landmarks Advisory Board** (Aug. 19): Approval of minutes from two prior meetings; no substantive items listed.
• **Library Advisory Board** (Aug. 19): Approval of minutes, discussion of library historic marker, capital updates from Miami-Dade.
• **Coral Gables Waterfront Communities HOA Board** (Aug. 20): Discussion of e-bike age limit and educational campaign, sargassum seaweed buildup and fish kills reported by Gables by the Sea.

Coral Gables boards review bench donation, code fines, and construction appeal

Over the past two weeks, Coral Gables boards and committees met to review proposals, hear updates, and consider enforcement actions. No final votes or decisions were recorded — all recent meetings were agenda-only, with minutes not yet published. Key items included a bench donation for The Underline, code enforcement fines for property violations, and an appeal of construction fines.

Arts and culture

The Arts Advisory Panel (July 29) considered a donation proposal for a bench at The Underline by artists Daniel Marosi and Bernard Wolfson, a pre-qualified artist request from Marosi, and updates on Art in Public Places projects. The Cultural Development Board (upcoming Aug. 12) will review the same donation proposal (26-1849) and receive cultural grant updates.

Code enforcement

The Code Enforcement Ticket Hearing (Aug. 5) reviewed five violations:

• 5001 Maggiore Street: prohibited short-term rental, $500 daily running fine
• 3247 Riviera Drive: right-of-way obstruction including rebar, $500
• 625 Tiziano Avenue: improper pruning of Sea Grape tree, $500
• 60 Coral Way: flashing neon sign on storefront window, $100
• 131 Zamora Avenue: prohibited short-term rental, $250 daily running fine

Construction and property

The Construction Regulation Board (upcoming Aug. 10) will hear an appeal of fines for 1021 Hardee Rd, conduct second hearings or updates for 4800 Le Jeune Rd, 1545 Cantoria Ave, and 931/935 Catalonia Ave, and introduce new cases at 13637 Deering Bay Dr and 123 Zamora Ave.

Economic development and parking

The Economic Development Board (Aug. 5) discussed financial institutions on Miracle Mile, a business tax license portal update, a downtown partnership update, and a landscape & maintenance assessment district update. The Parking Advisory Board (Aug. 5) covered mobility and sustainability updates, mobility hub updates, and residential parking discounts.

Other boards

The Advisory Board on Disability Affairs (Aug. 5) considered a UM Card Autism Friendly City Designation proposal from Jose Rodriguez, plus updates on Sitting Pretty Director Training, Adventure Day with Parks & Recreation, school inclusion and accessibility, and the Employment Pathway Summit. The Waterways Advisory Board (Aug. 5) received a Code Enforcement report on cited properties and mangrove enforcement actions. The Senior Citizens Advisory Board (Aug. 6) discussed a proposal to recognize AAC Gals as volunteers, Senior Week (Aug. 17–21), Phillips Park Phase 1 nearing completion, and a Quinceañera Celebration on Aug. 7. The Board of Architects met July 30 and Aug. 6 to review design review items; public comments were due by 4 p.m. the day before each meeting.

Coming up

• **Aug. 10** – Merrick House Governing Board: routine activity reports for June and July.
• **Aug. 10** – Construction Regulation Board: appeal of fines and multiple case hearings.
• **Aug. 12** – Cultural Development Board: bench donation proposal and cultural grant updates.

Coral Gables advisory boards met on traffic, arts, and sustainability; code enforcement hearing set for Aug. 5

Coral Gables advisory boards and councils held a series of meetings between July 20 and July 30, covering topics from international correspondence to traffic calming and public art. Minutes have not yet been published for any of these meetings, so no votes or final decisions are confirmed in the public record at this time. The next consequential scheduled action is an Aug. 5 Code Enforcement Ticket Hearing with specific fines attached to several properties.

International Affairs Coordinating Council (July 20)

The council was set to review diplomatic communications from Mayor Lago, including a letter to Mayor Turbay of Cartagena, Colombia, and a response from Mayor Sophie Joissains of Aix-en-Provence, France. Agenda only; minutes not yet published.

Cultural Development Board (July 21)

The board was scheduled to approve minutes from its June 16, 2026 meeting (Item 26-1834) and share the 2027–2028 Cultural Grant schedule: a March 18, 2027 webinar; March 26, 2027 eligibility deadline; April 16, 2027 application deadline; and May 18, 2027 review and scoring meeting. An update on the Art in Public Places active project list for May 2026 (Item 25-8544) was also listed. Agenda only; minutes not yet published.

Waterfront Communities HOA Board (July 21)

The board planned to discuss SB 382 regarding e-bikes and a Living Shoreline Guide update. The meeting was open to the public via Zoom. Agenda only; minutes not yet published.

Transportation Advisory Board (July 21)

The board was set to approve May 20, 2026 meeting minutes, receive a police update, and discuss citywide traffic calming with a focus on sidewalk projects. Agenda only; minutes not yet published.

Sustainability Advisory Board (July 22)

The board was scheduled to receive updates on the Keep Coral Gables Beautiful program, including recent events (Planting for Patriotism, Composting Made Simple Workshop) and upcoming events (Commercial Beautification Awards nominations, Summer Downtown Community Cleanup, Senior Week Sustainability Presentation, Pollinator Palooza). Summer Page interns were listed to present to the City Commission on septic-to-sewer conversion and the benefits of living seawalls. Standing agenda items included a Vulnerability Assessment update and a Block-by-Block monthly report. No formal decisions were listed. Agenda only; minutes not yet published.

Board of Architects (July 23 and July 30)

The July 23 meeting listed public comments (Item 26-1751) and a design review consideration (Item 26-1752). The July 30 meeting was set to discuss and vote on design review items, with public comments due by 4 p.m. the day before. Agenda only; minutes not yet published.

Retirement Board (July 23)

The board was scheduled to hear presentations from Dimensional Fund Advisors and DRZ Investment Advisors regarding the Brandywine Dynamic Large Cap Value fund, along with a performance update and final recommendations from the investment consultant. Public participation was available via Zoom or phone. Agenda only; minutes not yet published.

Arts Advisory Panel (July 29)

The panel was set to consider a donation proposal for a bench at The Underline by artists Daniel Marosi and Bernard Wolfson, review a pre-qualified artist request from Daniel Marosi, and receive updates on Art in Public Places active project lists. Agenda only; minutes not yet published.

Coming up

• **Aug. 5 — Code Enforcement Ticket Hearing:** Scheduled cases include 5001 Maggiore Street (prohibited short-term rental, $500 daily running fine); 3247 Riviera Drive (right-of-way obstruction including rebar, $500.00); 625 Tiziano Avenue (improper pruning of Sea Grape tree, $500.00); 60 Coral Way (flashing neon sign on storefront window, $100.00); and 131 Zamora Avenue (prohibited short-term rental, $250 daily running fine).
• **Aug. 5 — Parking Advisory Board:** Mobility and sustainability updates, mobility hub updates, and residential parking discounts.
• **Aug. 5 — Economic Development Board:** Discussion on financial institutions on Miracle Mile, Business Tax License Portal update, Downtown Partnership update, and Business Tax License Report.
• **Aug. 5 — Advisory Board on Disability Affairs:** Proposal from Jose Rodriguez regarding UM Card Autism Friendly City Designation, plus updates on Sitting Pretty Director Training, Adventure Day with Parks & Recreation, inclusion and accessibility within the school system, and the Employment Pathway Summit.
• **Aug. 5 — Waterways Advisory Board:** Code Enforcement report on cited properties and mangrove enforcement actions.
• **Aug. 12 — Cultural Development Board:** Donation Proposal 26-1849 for a Bernard Wolfson Bench at The Underline by Daniel Marosi, plus Art in Public Places updates and cultural grant updates.

Coral Gables meetings set budget, zoning, and code enforcement agendas; minutes not yet published

Coral Gables boards and commissions met across the second week of July 2026, but official minutes have not yet been published for any of the recent sessions. The following roundup reflects what each agenda listed for discussion or action; outcomes are not confirmed in the public record at the time of this report.

City Commission — budget and zoning items

The City Commission met July 7 and July 8. The July 7 agenda included a zoning amendment for 520 University Drive to remove overflow parking limits and single-family zoning reversion rules, a $95,000 sole-source contract for Marrero Armor ballistic plates for the Police Department, a $109,611 FDOT grant for the Granada Boulevard sidewalk improvement project from De Soto to Bird Road, a $500,000 reallocation for capital improvements at 285 Aragon Avenue, and a first-reading ordinance banning campaign contributions from real estate developers.

The July 8 agenda focused on the Fiscal Year 2026-2027 budget estimate and a resolution setting the proposed operating millage rate of 5.559.

Because minutes are not yet published, it is not confirmed which items were approved, continued, or tabled.

Board of Adjustment — four variance hearings

On July 6, the Board of Adjustment was scheduled to hold public hearings on four variance requests: a dock variance at 240 Edgewater Drive extending 11 feet 3 inches into a waterway; carport and fence variances at 8800 Old Cutler Road with reduced side setbacks; cooling tower placement and facade variances at 10 Edgewater Drive; and a garage length variance at 2830 De Soto Boulevard reduced from 22 feet to 20 feet 2 inches. The agenda also included approval of minutes from May 4, 2026.

Code Enforcement Board — unpermitted work and property violations

The July 15 agenda listed five cases: unpermitted brown metal fencing at 215 Grant Drive, exterior alterations without permits at 414 Barbarossa Avenue, insect and rodent infestation at 707 Anastasia Avenue, unpermitted tree cutting affecting a neighbor's property at 3247 Riviera Drive, and a commercial interior build-out without permits at 374 Coral Way #376.

Construction Regulation Board — lien notices and case reviews

On July 13, the board was scheduled to review a notice of intent to lien for 1129 Sevilla Ave (case 26-1239) and case reviews for 280 Alhambra Cir (26-1231), 222 Phoenetia Ave (26-1226), 1500 Douglas Rd (25-9896), and a new case for 1021 Hardee Rd (25-9340).

Historic Preservation Board — designations and tax relief

The July 16 agenda included approval of June 18, 2026 minutes, a public hearing for ad valorem tax relief at 720 Madeira Avenue, consideration of local historic designation for 439 Majorca Avenue and 446 Aragon Avenue, and review of Special Certificate of Appropriateness applications for multiple properties.

Other boards

The Property Advisory Board met July 8 to approve June 10 minutes and review the July 2026 rent report for Patio & Things at 475-495 Biltmore Way. The Board of Architects met July 9 and July 16 for design review considerations and public comments. The Mayor's Citizens Advisory Council met July 16 to introduce a new member and discuss a multi-family green certification program.

Coming up

• **July 20 — International Affairs Coordinating Council:** Review of correspondence with the Mayor of Cartagena, Colombia, and a response from the Mayor of Aix-en-Provence, France.
• **July 21 — Cultural Development Board:** 2027–2028 Cultural Grant schedule and Art in Public Places project list update.
• **July 21 — Transportation Advisory Board:** Citywide traffic calming and sidewalk projects discussion.
• **July 21 — Coral Gables Waterfront Communities HOA Board:** Discussion on SB 382 regarding e-bikes and a living shoreline guide update.
• **July 23 — Board of Architects:** Public comments (item 26-1751) and design review (item 26-1752).
• **July 23 — Retirement Board:** Presentations from Dimensional Fund Advisors and DRZ Investment Advisors, plus a performance update on the Brandywine Dynamic Large Cap Value fund.

Coral Gables Commission Considers Zoning Changes, Police Contract, and FY2027 Budget

The Coral Gables City Commission had a busy week, with public hearings on zoning amendments, campaign finance reform, and the first look at next year's budget — though official minutes have not yet been published for any of the recent meetings covered in this roundup.

City Commission: Zoning, Spending, and Budget

On July 7, the Commission was scheduled to hold a public hearing on a zoning amendment for 520 University Drive that would remove overflow parking limits and single-family zoning reversion rules. The same agenda included a $95,000 sole-source contract for Marrero Armor ballistic plates for the Police Department, a $109,611 FDOT grant for the Granada Boulevard sidewalk improvement project from De Soto to Bird Road, and a $500,000 reallocation for capital improvements at 285 Aragon Avenue. A first reading of an ordinance banning campaign contributions from real estate developers was also on the agenda.

The following day, July 8, the Commission was scheduled to receive a presentation of the Fiscal Year 2026-2027 budget estimate and consider a resolution setting the proposed operating millage rate at 5.559.

Minutes for both Commission meetings have not yet been published, so final vote outcomes are not confirmed.

Board of Adjustment: Four Variance Hearings

On July 6, the Board of Adjustment was scheduled to hold public hearings on four variance requests:

• A dock variance at 240 Edgewater Drive extending 11 feet 3 inches into the waterway.
• Carport and fence variances at 8800 Old Cutler Road with reduced side setbacks.
• Cooling tower placement and facade variances at 10 Edgewater Drive.
• A garage length variance at 2830 De Soto Boulevard, reduced from 22 feet to 20 feet 2 inches.

The agenda also included approval of minutes from the May 4, 2026 meeting. Outcomes are not yet confirmed.

Arts Advisory Panel: Artist Qualifications and Art Week Funding

On July 1, the Arts Advisory Panel was set to review pre-qualified artist requests from Roberto Lugo and Susan Te Kahurangi King, discuss a Ponce Circle Park design concept, and consider funding of up to $110,000 for the 'Intervals' Coral Gables Art Series during Miami Art Week.

Waterways Advisory Board: Dock Variances

Also on July 1, the Waterways Advisory Board was scheduled to review dock variance applications for properties at 361 Los Pinos Boulevard and 240 Edgewater Drive, approve minutes from its June 6 meeting, and receive a marine patrol operations update. No major policy changes or budget items were scheduled.

Advisory Board on Disability Affairs

The Board discussed the FIU Embrace Disability Conference, a mental health awareness presentation, a 'Sitting Pretty' director training update, Adventure Day updates with Parks & Recreation, and a review of school system inclusion and accessibility.

Board of Architects and Property Advisory Board

The Board of Architects met on July 2 and July 9 for routine design review considerations (items 26-1718 and 26-1720). No specific project details were provided in the agendas.

The Property Advisory Board met on July 8 to approve June 10 minutes and review the July 2026 rent report for Patio & Things at 475-495 Biltmore Way. No public hearings or substantive policy votes were scheduled.

Coming Up

• **July 13 — Construction Regulation Board**: Review of lien notices and cases at 1129 Sevilla Ave, 280 Alhambra Cir, 222 Phoenetia Ave, 1500 Douglas Rd, and 1021 Hardee Rd.
• **July 15 — Code Enforcement Board**: Public hearing on unpermitted fencing at 215 Grant Drive, unpermitted exterior alterations at 414 Barbarossa Avenue, insect and rodent infestation at 707 Anastasia Avenue, unpermitted tree cutting at 3247 Riviera Drive, and an unpermitted commercial build-out at 374 Coral Way #376.
• **July 16 — Mayor's Citizens Advisory Council**: Introduction of a new member, discussion of a multi-family green certification program, and resident input.
• **July 20 — International Affairs Coordinating Council**: Review of correspondence with Cartagena, Colombia and Aix-en-Provence, France.

All recent meeting outcomes listed above are based on published agendas only; official minutes have not yet been released.

Coral Gables boards met on budget, development, and arts; minutes pending ahead of key City Commission votes

Over the past two weeks, nine Coral Gables advisory boards and panels held regularly scheduled meetings, but minutes have not yet been published for any of them, so no official actions or votes can be reported. Attention now turns to the City Commission, which meets July 7 and 8 to take up zoning changes, police equipment contracts, grant funding, and the next fiscal year's budget.

Recent meetings: agendas only, no minutes published

All nine recent meetings between June 22 and July 2 are listed as agenda-only with minutes not yet published. The items below reflect what was scheduled for discussion, not what was decided.

• **Budget/Audit Advisory Board (June 24):** Scheduled to receive an update from RSM External Auditors on financial statements and review progress on the Fiscal Year 2027 budget process. A reminder of the July 1, 2026 financial disclosure deadline was also on the agenda.
• **Development Review Committee (June 26):** Set to review renovation plans for Fred B. Hartnett Ponce Circle Park at 2810 Ponce de Leon Boulevard, amendments to the University of Miami Development Agreement and Campus Master Plan, a change of use to mixed-use residential/commercial at 3195 Ponce de Leon Boulevard, and new construction of a two-story office building at the same address.
• **Arts Advisory Panel (July 1):** Scheduled to review pre-qualified artist requests from Roberto Lugo and Susan Te Kahurangi King, a Ponce Circle Park design concept, and a resolution to fund the "Intervals" Coral Gables Art Series with up to $110,000 during Miami Art Week.
• **Waterways Advisory Board (July 1):** Set to review dock variance applications for 361 Los Pinos Boulevard and 240 Edgewater Drive, approve June 6 minutes, and receive a marine patrol operations update.
• **Board of Architects (June 25 and July 2):** Two meetings scheduled to consider Design Review items 26-1716 and 26-1718, respectively, with public comment periods.
• **Other boards:** The Coral Gables Waterfront Communities HOA Board (June 22) was set to discuss Biscayne Bay Watershed Advisory Board updates, a traffic circle beautification program, and waterway code enforcement. The Golf and Country Club Advisory Board (June 24) was scheduled to review events and July 13-22 venue maintenance. The Advisory Board on Disability Affairs (July 1) was set to discuss the FIU Embrace Disability Conference, mental health awareness, and school accessibility.

Coming up

• **Board of Adjustment — July 6:** Public hearings on four zoning variance requests, including a dock variance extending 11 feet 3 inches into a waterway at 240 Edgewater Drive, carport and fence variances at 8800 Old Cutler Road, cooling tower and facade variances at 10 Edgewater Drive, and a garage length variance at 2830 De Soto Boulevard.
• **City Commission — July 7:** Public hearings on a zoning amendment for 520 University Drive to remove overflow parking limits and single-family zoning reversion rules; a $95,000 sole-source contract for Marrero Armor ballistic plates for the Police Department; a $109,611 FDOT grant for the Granada Boulevard sidewalk improvement project from De Soto to Bird Road; a $500,000 reallocation for capital improvements at 285 Aragon Avenue; and first reading of an ordinance banning campaign contributions from real estate developers.
• **City Commission — July 8:** Presentation of the Fiscal Year 2026-2027 Budget Estimate and a resolution setting the Proposed Operating Millage Rate of 5.559.
• **Property Advisory Board — July 8:** Procedural agenda including approval of June 10 minutes and review of the July 2026 rent report for Patio & Things at 475-495 Biltmore Way.
• **International Affairs Coordinating Council — July 20:** Review of a letter from Mayor Lago to Mayor Turbay of Cartagena, Colombia, and a response from Mayor Sophie Joissains of Aix-en-Provence, France.

Coral Gables City Commission to weigh zoning changes, police gear, and budget tax rate

Coral Gables city leaders face a consequential week, with the City Commission set to decide on a zoning amendment, spending on police equipment and capital improvements, and the next fiscal year’s property tax rate. Meanwhile, advisory boards have been reviewing dock variance requests, art funding, park renovations and budget audits.

City Commission zoning and spending

On July 7, the Commission will hold public hearings on a zoning amendment for 520 University Drive that would remove overflow parking limits and single-family zoning reversion rules. A first-reading ordinance would ban campaign contributions from real estate developers. Commissioners will also act on a $95,000 sole-source contract for Marrero Armor ballistic plates for the Police Department, accept a $109,611 FDOT grant for the Granada Boulevard sidewalk improvement project from De Soto to Bird Road, and consider a $500,000 reallocation for capital improvements at 285 Aragon Avenue.

Budget presentation

On July 8, the Commission will receive the Fiscal Year 2026-2027 budget estimate and vote on a resolution setting the proposed operating millage rate at 5.559, which will determine property tax levies for the coming year.

Board of Adjustment variance hearings

The Board of Adjustment meets July 6 with four public hearings. A dock variance at 240 Edgewater Drive asks to extend 11 feet 3 inches into a waterway. Other cases include carport and fence setback reductions at 8800 Old Cutler Road, cooling tower placement and facade variances at 10 Edgewater Drive, and a garage length variance reduction from 22 feet to 20 feet 2 inches at 2830 De Soto Boulevard.

Arts panel eyes art series funding

The Arts Advisory Panel on July 1 (agenda only, minutes not yet published) was scheduled to review requests from artists Roberto Lugo and Susan Te Kahurangi King to join the city’s pre-qualified list, and to discuss funding of up to $110,000 for the “Intervals” Coral Gables Art Series during Miami Art Week.

Other board activity

In recent weeks, advisory boards have covered a range of topics. The Budget/Audit Advisory Board on June 24 received an external audit update from RSM and an overview of the FY 2027 budget process. On June 26, the Development Review Committee looked at the renovation of Fred B. Hartnett Ponce Circle Park, amendments to the University of Miami’s campus master plan, a use change to mixed-use residential/commercial at 3195 Ponce de Leon Boulevard, and a new two-story office building at the same address.

The Waterways Advisory Board on July 1 reviewed dock variance applications for 361 Los Pinos Boulevard and 240 Edgewater Drive, along with marine patrol updates. The Coral Gables Advisory Board on Disability Affairs on July 1 discussed the FIU Embrace Disability Conference, mental health awareness, and adventure day planning with Parks & Recreation. The Waterfront Communities HOA Board on June 22 heard updates on Biscayne Bay living shorelines, boater safety and a traffic circle beautification program. The Golf and Country Club Advisory Board on June 24 previewed a July 4th BBQ and a venue maintenance week from July 13-22.

Coming up

• **Board of Adjustment**: July 6, public hearings on variances.
• **City Commission**: July 7, zoning, police equipment, grants and reallocation votes.
• **City Commission**: July 8, budget presentation and millage rate resolution.