May 6, 2021, Sherry Nabbie-Singh No Comments

Miramar’s Anxin Sports Center {Miramar City}

City Commissioner Mike Green proposed to build a 10,000-seat IAAF-certified track in the stadium at an estimated cost of 3.5 million U.S. dollars, but did not provide a plan on how to pay.

On April 14, Greg Warner, the director of parks and entertainment, showed the city council two expected locations in the park and explained how the tracks were installed and what facilities would need to be demolished to make room for them.

One of the locations is west of the football field, and the other area is north of the basketball court. Since space is the main issue, Warner stated that the two locations will be "closely coordinated." 

Another challenge is the required surface water master permit, which involves rain mitigation for land development in Broward County. According to city spokesperson Eunicia Baker, the city’s ability to further alleviate rainwater in the area is limited due to the fact that the comprehensive stadium has basically been completed and due to the lack of open space.

Commissioner Green and Mayor Michel Gomez both requested that the committee's discussions be transferred to public opinion. Most of the callers were not residents of Tamarak, they were invited by Commissioner Green to provide support on his behalf.

Two residents of Tamarak expressed their reservations, including former city commissioner Julie Fishman, a resident of the area where the stadium is located. Another member stated that no one has discussed whether the estimated cost includes parking areas or explained the source of funds used to pay for the track.

Commissioner Green explained that the estimate of $3.5 million came from his discussions with an unnamed company that built the runway. 

"You can propose some additional financing that does not affect our budget in various ways." 

Commissioner Elvin Villalobos asked about the content of the vote, whether it was a feasibility study or allowing the project to start without public participation. 

Commissioner Marlon Bolton interjected that no feasibility study was needed, which was confirmed by city manager Michael Cernech.

The September 2021 date is "unrealistic", Commissioner Debra Placko stated that Mayor Gomez stated that the matter needs to be returned to the strategic planning stage and requires more research To vote on the proposal. 

When the city committee obtained sufficient information, the bill was reconsidered with a result of 3-2.

The entire conference can be viewed online.

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