Gables Estates 2008 Holiday Newsletter

Holiday 2008 Newsletter
December 3, 2008

Dear Friends and Neighbors,

Although the Board does give a holiday gift to each Wackenhut Guard based on rank and time served, we also suggest that each member generously give a holiday gift to the Wackenhut Guards. We ask that you makeyour check out to: Gables Estates Club, Inc. ,you may drop your contribution off, in a sealed envelope, at either gatehouse or mail directly to Kathleen. The Board will be happy to make the distribution for you. This year there are fifteen (15) full time guards serving Gables Estates and one handyman . Each officer is listed on the back of this newsletter along with the time he has served at Gables Estates. Please do not give checks or money to an individual to distribute, other than Kathleen. Your contributions to the security staff will be logged in the Club’s ledger and dispersed to each employee based on his rank and time served with GablesEstates. Your contribution is greatly welcomed and appreciated. So Please remember your security staff this holiday season.

Gables Estates Club Wackenhut Security Staff

Wackenhut Officer	Time Served at Gables Estates	Starting Date
Captain Roberto Urra	12 years (9 Month) 11.5 Supervisor	03/1996
Lieutenant Juan Castillo	18 years & 2 months	10/1990
Sergeant Joseph Smith	15 years & 10 months	02/1993
Sergeant William Hammett	14 years & 4 months	08/1994
Officer Antonio Romero	15 years & 4 months	08/1993
Officer Juan Morales	5 years & 6 months	06/2003
Officer Jason Webster	5 years & 4 months	08/2003
Officer Reinier Barrios	2 years & 4 months	08/2006
Officer Juan Vera	2 years & 2 months	10/2006
Officer Bayardo Bojorge	1 year & 8 months	04/2007
Officer Robert Dorris	1 year & 5 months	07/2007
Officer Frank Montoto	1 year	12/2007
Officer Peter Linares	10 months	02/2008
Officer Charles Rosser	8 months	04/2008
Officer Dale Kosak	2 months	10/2008
Handyman Jose Orozco	2 years & 11 months	01/2006

The 1st Annual Holiday Boat Parade of Lights

The 1st Annual Holiday Boat Parade of Lights was an inagural success all boats and participating members welcomed the holidays with great spirit, originality, and community goodwill.

The 21st Annual Club Block Party

The 21st Annual Club Block Party is slated to be a big success just like years past. Invitations will go out shortly for theAnnual Club Block Party which has been planned for the afternoon of Sunday, February 8, 2009 from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. This year’s theme will be “Mardi Gras on the Green”.Suggestions and volunteers are welcomed. Please contact Kathleen or Mrs. Audrey Ross if you’d like to help

Date to Remember

January 31, 2009 all Maintenance fees must be received in full (6,000. per lot) in order to avoid a lien being placed on your property. If you have any questions or concerns regarding the status of your bill, please call Kathleen.

Thanks Once Again

Our thanks go out to Mrs. Sissy Ruffe for decorating the gatehouses for the Holiday Season and working so diligently as the Chair of Beautification. As always, your Board of Governors and Kathleen, would like to extend to you and yours a very Safe and Happy Seasons Greetings. Best Wishes to you and yours for a healthy, prosperous New Year.

Sincerely,


Rene Guerra
President

Annual Minutes of Gables Estates Club, Inc. October 2008

ANNUAL MINUTES

OCTOBER 30, 2008

THE ANNUAL MEETING OF THE MEMBERSHIP OF GABLES ESTATES CLUB, INC., TOOK PLACE AT FAIRCHILD TROPICAL GARDEN, MAIN GARDEN ROOM, 10901 OLD CUTLER ROAD, MIAMI, FLORIDA AT 7:30 P.M. THURSDAY, OCTOBER 30, 2008

MR. RENE GUERRA, PRESIDENT, CALLED THE MEETING TO ORDER AND WELCOMED THOSE PRESENT. MR. GUERRA INTRODUCED THOSE BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT: MRS. SISSY RUFFE, FIRST VICE PRESIDENT; MR. JOSE BARED, SECOND VICE PRESIDENT; MR. BILL BOX, SECRETARY, MR. ANTHONY ARGIZ, TREASURER; DIRECTORS; MRS. CHRISTINA MIRANDA, MR. DANIEL CANEL AND MRS. BUNNY BASTIAN. MRS. TRISH BELL WAS OUT OF TOWN. MR. GUERRA WELCOMED NEW MEMBERS MR. AND MRS. RICARDO ALBARRAN TO THE MEETING.

THE PRESIDENT READ THE FOLLOWING PROXY REPORT ON BEHALF OF MRS. BELL, CHAIR OF THE PROXY COMMITTEE:

THERE ARE 193 VOTING INTERESTS IN GABLES ESTATES, EVERYONE OWNING A LOT IN GABLES ESTATES IS ENTITLED TO VOTE, IN ACCORDANCE WITH FLORIDA STATUE 617.305 (a). FLORIDA STATUTES 617.305(1) PROVIDES THAT 30% OF THE VOTING INTEREST SHALL CONSTITUTE A QUORUM. 30% x 192 = 57.90 VOTING INTERESTS SHALL CONSTITUTE A QUORUM. THE NUMBER OF INTERESTS VOTING BY PROXY IS 5O. THE NUMBER OF INTERESTS VOTING IN PERSON IS 8. THE TOTAL NUMBER VOTING IS 58; THEREFORE, WE HAVE A LEGAL QUORUM.

MR. GUERRA ASKED FOR A MOTION TO BE MADE THAT THE READING OF THE MINUTES OF THE ANNUAL MEETING OF APRIL 24, 2008 BE WAIVED AND BE ADOPTED AS CIRCULATED TO THE MEMBERSHIP. A MOTION WAS SO MOVED AND SECONDED. ALL WERE IN FAVOR AND THE MOTION CARRIED.

Nominating Committee Report

MRS. CRISTINA MIRANDA GAVE THE FOLLOWING REPORT ON BEHALF OF MRS. MAGGIE MIRANDA, THE NOMINATING COMMITTEE CHIAR: THE NOMINATING COMMITTEE MET AT THE HOME OF THE CHAIR, MRS. MAGGIE MIRANDA, 601 LEUCADENDRA DRIVE, ON TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2008, AT 6:00 P.M. THOSE SERVING ON THE NOMINATING COMMITTEE WERE: CHAIR; MRS. MAGGIE MIRANDA, MR. SALVADOR JURADO, AND DR. SANFORD RAKOFSKY. MR. LAZARO MILTON AND DR. ALBERT TANO WERE UNABLE TO ATTEND.

NAMES OF PERSONS NOMINATED:

MR. RENE GUERRA OF 650 LEUCADENDRA DRIVE

MRS. SISSY RUFFE OF 110 ARVIDA PARKWAY

MR. JOSE BARED OF 9025 ARVIDA DRIVE

MR. BILL BOX OF 300 LEUCADENDRA DRIVE

MR. DANIEL CANEL OF 555 ARVIDA PARKWAY

IT WAS UNANIMOUSLY AGREED BY A QUORUM OF THE NOMINATING COMMITTEE THAT THE ABOVE FIVE (5) NAMES WOULD BE PRESENTED FOR NOMINATION TO THE BOARD OF GOVERNORS. ALL FIVE (5) MEMBERS HAVE AGREED TO SERVE ON THE BOARD.

MRS. MIRANDA ASKED IF THERE WERE ANY ADDITIONAL NOMINATIONS TO BE MADE AT THIS TIME. HEARING NONE THE NOMINATIONS ARE CLOSED AND THOSE NOMINATED ARE DULY ELECTED.

THE PRESIDENT GAVE THE FOLLOWING REPORT FOR THE ADMISSION COMMITTEE CHAIR, MRS. TRISH BELL:

THE BOARD INCREASED THE APPLICATION FEE FOR PURCHASING PROPERTY IN GABLES ESTATES FROM $30,000. TO $60,000. AS OF SEPTEMBER 1, 2008. THE BOARD APPROVED MAINTAINING THE APPLICATION FEE FOR LEASING PROPERTY UP TO A FIVE YEAR LEASE IN GABLES ESTATES TO $30,000. THE LESSEE WILL HAVE TO REAPPLY AFTER THE FIFTH YEAR WITH AN ADDITIONAL $30,000 APPLICATION FEE. EFFECTIVE FROM SEPTEMBER 1, 2008.

MRS. RUFFE, CHAIR OF THE BEAUTIFICATION COMMITTEE, GAVE THE FOLLOWING REPORT:

1) BOTH GATEHOUSES ARE COMPLETE WITH FINAL C.O.

2) LANDSCAPING LIGHTING FOR BOTH ENTRANCES COMPLETED

3) ADDITIONAL GROUND LIGHTING FOR BRIDGE & ISLAND LOCATIONS WILL BE INSTALLED SHORTLY

4) STAGE ONE ON INSTALLATION OF CLIPPING PILE HEDGE WILL BEGIN SHORTLY.

5) HOLIDAY DECORATIONS WILL BE IMPLEMENTED RIGHT AFTER THANKSGIVING

THE PRESIDENT ONCE AGAIN THANKED SISSY FOR ALL HER HARD WORK AND TIME GIVEN TO THE CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS FOR THE CLUB.

MRS. CRISTINA MIRANDA, CHAIR OF SECURITY GAVE THE FOLLOWING:

THE SECURITY COMMITTEE HAS CONTINUED TO MEET WITH WACKENHUT MANAGEMENT. WORKING TO IMPROVE CAMERAS WITH INFRARED AND NEW DVR RECORDERS. POLICY “MAY I HELP YOU?” AFTER 11:00 P.M. PROVEN EFFECTIVE . REQUEST MEMBERSHIP COOPERATION. CONTINUE ENFORCEMENT REGARDING CONSTRUCTION SITES TO COMPLY WITH CITY CODE FOR PROPER START TIME AND COMPLETION TIME ALSO HAS PROVEN EFFECTIVE.

CAPTAIN URRA, SITE SUPERVISOR, ADDRESSED THE MEMBERSHIP: HE REQUESTED MORE PARTICIPATION FROM MEMBERSHIP BY COMPLETING THE VACATION FORM, MARINE VESSEL REGISTRATION FORM, VEHICLE REGISTRATION FORM AND EMERGENCY CONTACT FORM. HE STATED THESE FORMS HELP ASSIST SECURITY IN SERVING THE MEMBERSHIP BETTER. CAPTAIN URRA STRESSED THE NEED FOR MEMBERSHIP TO NOTIFY SECURITY WHEN A CHANGE OF VEHICLE TAKES PLACE OTHERWISE THE BARCODE STAYS IN THE SYSTEM EVEN THOUGH THE VEHICLE NO LONGER BELONGS TO A MEMBER.

THE PRESIDENT STRESSED SECURITY AS THE CLUB’S MOST IMPORTANT COMPONENT. HE STATED THE BOARD GIVES A GREAT DEAL OF THEIR TIME AS IT RELATES TO SECURITY AND IMPROVING SECURITY WHICH IS ALSO REFLECTED IN THE YEARLY BUDGET. MR. GUERRA COMPLIMENTED MRS. MIRANDA ON WORKING DILIGENTLY WITH WACKENHUT MANAGEMENT AND STAFF TO INSURE POST PROCEDURES ARE BEING PROPERLY FOLLOWED.

CITY OF CORAL GABLES OFFICER MICHAEL HEARNS, THE CLUB’S OFF DUTY COORDINATOR SPOKE WITH THE MEMBERSHIP REGARDING THE INCREASE IN CRIME. HE ASKED RESIDENTS TO BE DILIGENT AND TAKE PRECAUTIONS WITHIN THE COMMUNITY AS WELL AS WHEN OUTSIDE OF GABLES ESTATES. HE SUGGESTED REMOVING PERSONAL LICENSE PLATES WHICH SHOW STATUS AND MAY EVEN INDICATE WHAT YOU DO OR WHERE YOU LIVE. A MORE ANONYMOUS LICENSE PLATE WILL HELP MEMBERS BLEND INTO THE GENERAL POPULATION.

MR. ANTHONY ARGIZ, TREASURER, WENT OVER THE AUDITOR’S REPORT WITH THE MEMBERSHIP. HE POINTED OUT THE INCREASE IN APPLICATION FEES TO $60,000. HE WENT OVER THE DECREASE IN EXPENSES STATING THIS WAS DUE TO THE LAST TWO YEARS OF CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT COSTS. HE POINTED TO THE SMALL LOSS OF $23,690. FOR THE FISCAL YEAR OF 2007/08. THE TREASURER WENT OVER THE PROPOSED BUDGET FOR THE FISCAL YEAR 2008/09. A MOTION WAS MADE AND SECOND TO APPROVE THE PROPOSED BUDGET AS PRESENTED. QUESTIONS WERE TAKEN. THE MOTION WAS CALLED AND ALL WERE IN FAVOR TO APPROVE THE BUDGET.

THE COMMODORE, MR. DANIEL CANEL IS LOOKING INTO A HOLIDAY BOAT PARADE FOR GABLES ESTATES MEMBERS.

RACHEL BEJEL, ON BEHALF OF MRS. AUDREY ROSS, BLOCK PARTY COMMITTEE CHAIR , STATED THE 21ST ANNUAL BLOCK PARTY WILL BE HELD ON FEBRUARY 8TH, 2009 BETWEEN 2:00 AND 5:00 P.M. THE THEME WILL BE MARDI GRAS IN ON THE GREEN. PLEASE MARK YOUR CALENDARS AND BRING YOUR CHILDREN AND GRANDCHILDREN TO MEET YOUR NEIGHBORS AND MAKE NEW FRIENDS.

THE PRESIDENT STRESSED THE NEED FOR COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT FOR BETTER REPRESENTATION AT THE CITY LEVEL. HE STRESSED CONCERNS FOR THE RECENT FLOODING IN SOME AREAS, POOR CONDITION OF ROADS AND MAINTENANCE OF DEBRIS AND ORGANIC FILL IN THE CANALS AS WELL AS THE NEED FOR A SECOND SEAWITCH OR BACK UP CONTRACT TO CLEAN THE DEBRIS FROM THE CANALS. HE STATED HE AND SEVERAL BOARD MEMBERS ARE PLANNING TO MEET WITH CITY DIRECTORS AND POSSIBLY THE MAYOR WITHIN THE NEXT SEVERAL WEEKS REGARDING THE ABOVE MATTERS. MR. GUERRA INVITED MEMBERSHIP PARTICIPATION WITH THESE CAUSES.

MR. BARED QUESTIONED HAVING GABLES ESTATES FUNDS EXCEEDING THE $250,000. FEDERALLY INSURED AMOUNT IN ONE BANK. DISCUSSION TOOK PLACE. THE PRESIDENT WILL LOOK INTO THIS MATTER AND MAKE SURE THE CLUB’S FUNDS ARE PROPERLY PROTECTED.

MRS. BARBARA KELLY EXPRESSED HER CONCERNS WITH LONG CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS AND LACK OF ENFORCEMENT. SHE SUGGESTED AN IMPACT FEE FOR THE DAMAGE DONE TO THE ROADS AND FINES FOR SLOW MOVING CONSTRUCTION. MR. GUERRA STATED THE NEW BY LAWS JUST PASSED WILL ALLOW THE BOARD TO SET STRICTER RULES AND REGULATIONS FOR CONSTRUCTION, LANDSCAPERS AND REALTORS TO ADHERE TO. HE STATED THE BY LAWS WILL ALLOW THE BOARD TO LEVY FINES FOR OFFENDERS. HE SUGGESTED MRS. KELLY TO SERVE OF THE OVERSITE COMMITTEE, OF NON BOARD MEMBERS, WHICH WILL HOLD HEARINGS PRIOR TO FINES BE LEVY.

THE PRESIDENT ASKED IF THERE WAS ANY OLD OR NEW BUSINESS FROM THE MEMBERSHIP. HEARING NONE, MR. GUERRA THANKED EVERYONE FOR ATTENDING TONIGHT’S MEETING. HE INVITED ANYONE INTERESTED TO STAY AND WITNESS THE ELECTION OF NEW OFFICERS.

ELECTION OF OFFICERS:
MR. BILL BOX MOVED TO NOMINATE MR. RENE GUERRA AS PRESIDENT. MRS. SISSY SECONDED THE MOTION. ALL WERE IN FAVOR .

THE MOTION PASSED.

1st VICE PRESIDENT:

2nd VICE PRESIDENT:

MRS. SISSY RUFFE MOVE TO NOMINATE MR. JOSE BARED AS 2nd VICE PRESIDENT. MR. DANIEL CANEL SECONDED THE MOTION AND ALL WERE IN FAVOR.

TREASURER:
MR. BILL BOX NOMINATED AS MR. ANTHONY ARGIZ AS TREASURER. MRS. CRISTINA MIRANDA SECONDED THE MOTION AND IT UNANIMOUSLY PASSED.

SECRETARY:
MR. JOSE BARED MOVED TO NOMINATE MR. BILL BOX AS SECRETARY. MRS. SISSY RUFFE SECONDED THE MOTION AND ALL WERE IN FAVOR.


EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE:

THE BOARD AGREED THAT THE PRESIDENT, VICE PRESIDENT AND SECRETARY WOULD SERVE THE BOARD AS THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE.

COMMITTEES:

THE NEWLY ELECTED PRESIDENT, STATED HE WOULD LIKE TO SEE A CONTINUITY AND APPOINTED THE FOLLOWING TO SERVE AS CHAIRS:

SECURITY:

CRISTINA MIRANDA

ARCHITECTURAL:

BILL BOX

BEAUTIFICATION:

SISSY RUFFE

FACILITIES:

JOSE BARED

BILL BOX

AND BUNNY BASTIAN

ADMISSION COMMITTEE:

TRISH BELL

DANIEL CANEL

AND BUNNY BASTIAN

YACHT CLUB COMMODORE:

DANIEL CANEL

JOSE BARED

THE PRESIDENT ASKED IF THERE WAS ANY ADDITIONAL BUSINESS FROM THE MEMBERSHIP. HEARING NONE, MR. GUERRA THANKED EVERYONE FOR ATTENDING TONIGHT’S MEETING.

ADJOURNMENT

THERE BEING NO FURTHER BUSINESS, A MOTION TO ADJOURN THE MEETING. SECONDED. ALL WERE IN FAVOR. THE MEETING WAS ADJOURNED AT_9:15 P.M.

Old Cutler Road construction may inconvienence residents

Old Cutler Road will be limited to one lane and at times completely closed until Tuesday December 9, 2008. The closures are a direct result of the construction which is ongoing to try and repair a broken water and sewer line. The lane closures will be intermittent and at times EXPECT lengthy delays.

Gables Estates Yacht Club to launch inaugural Holiday Boat Parade of Lights

WHEN: Saturday December 13, 2008, 6PM

WHO: Gables Estates Yacht Club

Your Commodore Daniel Canel cordially invites you and your family and friends to come and celebrate with your fellow members beginning at 6PM the 1st Annual Holiday Boat Parade of Lights. The parade will start from the main canal (marked “A” on your map) and travel through the Gables Estates canals. Each participating boat will receive a yacht club burgee. Votes will be cast to determine the winning entry for the best decorated boat and the first holiday boat parade of lights award will be given. Please bring your holiday spirit and play your best holiday music for everyone to enjoy. You can register by filling out the entry form below and returning it to the Arvida Parkway gatehouse or fax it to (305) 246-5288.

1st Annual Gables Estates Yacht Club Holiday Boat Parade of Lights

Entry Form

NAME:________________________________________

PHONE:_______________________________________

ADDRESS:______________________________________

E-MAIL:_______________________________________

TYPE AND LENGTH OF BOAT:_______________________


This is my entry form for participation in the Gables Estates Yacht Club’s 1st Annual Holiday Parade of Lights

City of Coral Gables e-newsletter highlights crime issue and new ordinance for vehicles parking on city streets

The City of Coral Gables official e newsletter created on October 1, 2008 highlights the necessity of residents to take a proactive position in securing their homes,property, and even their selves from crime. The current issue also explains the new ordinance that was passed prohibiting the parking of certain vehicles on the swale areas of Coral Gables streets. The excerpts below are taken directly from the official Coral Gables e-newsletter:

Keep Your Garage Doors Closed

The Coral Gables Police Department is working with neighboring law enforcement agencies to solve a home invasion robbery which occurred in Coral Gables. This case is similar to others that have occurred in the neighboring jurisdictions. The suspect enters the home through an open garage door, and confronts the homeowner with a gun demanding property. The victim’s vehicle is taken by the suspect. All investigative leads in this case are currently being pursued at this time. If you are home during the day, the Coral Gables Police Department recommends that you keep your garage door closed and remember to lock all of your doors. Residents are asked to contact the Coral Gables Police Department immediately if any suspicious vehicles or persons are observed in their neighborhood. The Coral Gables Police Department main line for non-emergencies is 305-442-1600.

No Parking Of Dilapidated Vehicles On City Swales

In order to maintain the City’s swale areas in an orderly and aesthetic fashion, the City of Coral Gables approved an amendment to the Zoning Code related to vehicles which are decayed, deteriorated or have fallen into partial ruin through neglect or misuse. A recent increase in the number of junk and dilapidated vehicles that are parked in swale areas, some displaying “for sale signs,” prompted the amendment of the code to prevent the deterioration of neighborhoods. The new provision provides a definition for dilapidated vehicle and junk motor vehicle which have property damage in excess of $500, stripped vehicles which have parts that have been removed and dilapidated vehicles which have fallen into partial ruin. These vehicles are prohibited from parking on City swales. To report a violation of the Zoning Code, contact Code Enforcement at 305-460-5226.

To read the entire Coral Gables e news bulletin just click HERE

PROPOSED AMENDMENTS TO THE BY-LAWS OF GABLES ESTATES CLUB, INC.

1.  Proposed Amendment to add Article XII to the By-Laws to Provide As Follows:

 

Article XII.  Maintenance.  All homes, structures and property located within Gables Estates community, more specifically defined as all of Gables Estates Number 2, Gables Estates Number 3, Gables Estates Number 4, Lots 14 through 21 Block 1 of Cocoplum Section One and Lots 1 through 9 of Block 12 of Cocoplum Section 2, Plat “A” (hereinafter “Gables Estates”) are located within the City of Coral Gables, subject to the Coral Gables City Code of Ordinances and are required to comply with those Codes.  In addition, each home, structure and property located within Gables Estates and each owner or resident thereof is required to comply with the below listed standards and requirements for maintenance thereof.  This obligation shall exist regardless of whether the home, structure or property is occupied or vacant.  Whether a given home or property is vacant, in the process of transferring title, or on the market to be sold does not excuse compliance with the obligations for the maintenance of homes, structures and property located in these By Laws and the Coral Gables City Code of Ordinances.  The Board of Governors of the Gables Estates Club, Inc. shall be specifically empowered to add to, amend and delete these as it may find to be necessary from time to time.

 

Section 1:  Maintenance of Homes, Structures and Property:

(a)    All doors and windows in any given structure must be closed and locked when the structure is vacant.

(b)   All walls, railings or structures of any kind must be maintained in good repair, properly painted with a Gables Estates Club, Inc. approved color and free of any unsightly damage or defects as may be determined by the Board of Governors of the Gables Estates Club, Inc.

(c)    In addition, all front, rear and side yards and/or property must be kept free of debris, trash, rubbish, weeds or other unsightly or unsanitary items.

(d)   All grass and/or undergrowth on any portion of the property must be kept at a height of six inches or less from the ground.

Failure to comply with the above referenced standards for homes, structures and/or property located within Gables Estates will lead to a notice given by certified mail to the owner of the property upon which the violation exists to the address listed within the Gables Estate Club Inc.’s (the “Club”) records advising the owner of the violation.  If the owner fails to remedy the violation within the number of days set forth in the notice, the Club shall have the right to remedy the violation on the owner’s behalf and at the owner’s expense.  All expenses associated with remedying the violation will be levied as a charge against the property upon which the violation exists, which will be collected in the same manner as past due assessments due to the Club may be collected.  Further, should more than one violation occur under this Section, the Club shall have the right to remedy future violations without further notice at the owner’s expense.

All owners are responsible for ensuring that any agent or employee, including realtors and/or brokers, responsible for the home in the owner’s absence complies with the standards set forth in the Coral Gables Code and in these By-Laws and any Rules and Regulations adopted by the Board of Governors of the Gables Estates Club, Inc.

Section 2:  Landscaping:

Owners and occupants of homes and properties within Gables Estates shall ensure that any service providers that perform landscaping services for the owner’s home or property shall comply with all of the Coral Gables Code of Ordinances governing such services.  In addition to any published Coral Gables City Code of Ordinances that may govern such landscaping services, the following restrictions shall apply:

(a)    All landscapers or other service providers shall either remove the landscaping or yard debris from the property and dispose of it properly and pursuant to City Code outside of Gables Estates or on the right of way that corresponds to the property upon which the landscaper or service provider is providing services. No owner, resident nor any agent or employee of any owner or resident, may dump any refuse on any right of way within Gables Estates other than their own property’s right of way.  Residents, occupants and their service providers are prohibited from depositing household refuse in trash piles, any earlier than 6:00 p.m. of the day preceding the designated collection day and any later than 7:00 a.m. on the day of the scheduled collection.

(b)   No landscaping services using any noise-producing lawn mowers, lawn-edgers, weed trimmers, blowers, chippers, chain saws, power tools or other noise-producing tools which are used to maintain a lawn or landscaping shall be provided to any property located within Gables Estates earlier than 7:30 a.m. nor later than 6:00 p.m. on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays or Fridays.  No such services be provided to any property located within Gables Estates before 9:00 a.m. or after 5:00 p.m. on any Saturday.  No such services shall be provided to any property located within Gables Estates on Sunday or any holiday as established by Section 1-2 of the Coral Gables City Code of Ordinances.

(c)    Any vehicles or receptacles which have been temporarily placed on a street located within Gables Estates for the purpose of rendering landscaping services or facilitating the rendering of landscaping services to a property located within the Gables Estates shall be surrounded by orange traffic cones placed around the vehicle and/or receptacle to alert drivers of the vehicle’s or receptacle’s stationary position. Also, any such vehicles and/or receptacles shall be removed as soon as practicable after the services are rendered.  Under no circumstances may such vehicles and/ore receptacles remain on the street past those hours set forth above for the provision of the services.  Violation of this provision will lead to towing and/or removal of such vehicle and/or receptacle without further notice and at the cost of the owner of the property for which the vehicle and/or receptacle was used to provide services.

Section 3:  Building/Construction:

(a)    No construction, alteration or general repair of any building, structure or other item for which a permit to construct, alter or repair is required by any ordinance of the City of Coral Gables, nor any dredging or land filling operation, nor site preparation, assembly, erection, substantial repair, alteration, delivery of materials, demolition or similar action, which disturbs the peace and quiet of the neighborhood, shall be done in Gables Estates before 7:30 a.m. or after 6:00 p.m. on any Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday or Friday; nor shall any such activity take place on any Saturday before 9:00 a.m. or after 5:00 p.m. nor on a Sunday or any holiday as established by Section 1-2 of the Coral Gables City Code of Ordinances.

(b)   Any person desiring a special permit for the purpose of doing construction, alterations or repair from the City of Coral Gables must first seek and receive the written approval of the Board of Governors of the Gables Estates Club, Inc. for such special permits.  Thereafter, the requirements of the Coral Gables City Code of Ordinances shall be followed for the procurement of any special permits.

(c)    All properties located within Gables Estates shall comply with the above referenced requirements in this Article XII and any other Rules or Regulations that may be adopted by the Board of Governors of the Club regarding the maintenance of property in Gables Estates, regardless of the status of any building or construction that may be occurring on the property.  Even if substantial construction is occurring on the property, to the extent possible, such properties shall be kept clean, debris free, free of weeds and overgrowth of grass and other construction debris.  Any such refuse must be removed daily and in accordance with this Article and/or Coral Gables City Code of Ordinances, whichever is stricter.

(d)    All construction sites, whether they be new construction, repairs, additions or otherwise, shall be properly fenced in and screened to avoid improper entry onto the construction site and to minimize the likelihood of construction debris and dust from exiting the construction site and damaging personal property or structures located outside the construction site.

(e)    All work performed and services provided within Gables Estates must conform with the requirements of Coral Gables City Code.  All required licenses, permits,  or other City requirements must be properly obtained and displayed on the property prior to commencing any work.  All required inspections must be timely sought and completed to the City’s satisfaction.

Section 4: Owners Must Ensure Compliance

It is the responsibility of each owner and member to ensure that all contractors, service providers and  workers who perform work or provide services to the owner or member’s property or home comply with the requirements and restrictions listed in this Article and any other Rules that may be enacted by the Board of Governers.  Each owner and member is required to certify to the Club that: (1)  he or she has provided a copy of this Article and any other Rules governing such work or service to any and all contractors, service  providers and  workers who will perform work or provide services to the owner or member’s property or home and (2) the contractors, service  providers and  workers will abide by the stated restrictions.

Owners must also provide the Club with the Name, Address and License Number for each contractor, service  provider and  worker who will be providing services to his or her home, as well as estimated dates of service and work.

2.  Proposed amendment to add Article XIII to the By-laws to read as follows:

 

The Board of Governors shall be entitled to enact or amend Rules and Regulations governing the use, maintenance and/or occupancy of all of the real property in Gables Estates Subdivisions Numbers 2, 3, 4, Lots 14 through 21 of Block 1 of Cocoplum Section 1 and Lots 1-9 of Block 12 of Cocoplum Section 2, Plat “A”, and any other Rule and Regulation that may be authorized by Florida law.

 

3.  Proposed amendment to add Article XIV to the By-laws to read as follows:

 

The Board of Governors may, pursuant to Florida Statute, Chapter 720 as amended from time to time, levy reasonable fines against a parcel not to exceed the maximum amount permissible by law, for failure to comply with the provisions of the Board policies and governing documents (Declarations of Protective Covenants, Articles of Incorporation, By-laws and Rules and Regulations), by members, occupants, licensees, tenants and invitees.  A fine may be imposed for each day of a continuing violation at the highest rate allowable by law per violation with a single notice and opportunity for hearing, provided that no fine shall in the aggregate exceed the maximum amount permissible by law.

 

A fine may not be imposed without prior notice of at least fourteen (14) days to the person sought to be fined and an opportunity for a hearing before a committee of at least three (3) members appointed by the Board who are not officers, directors, or employees of Gables Estates Club, Inc., or the spouse, parent, child, brother, sister of an officer, director or employee.  If the committee, by a majority vote, does not approve a proposed fine or suspension, it may not be imposed.  Notice of the fining hearing is effective when mailed.  The levying of a fine does not preclude the Board from pursuing any other remedy allowed by the Gables Estates’ governing documents or Florida law, including an action for an injunction.

 

Agenda for the Board of Governors Meeting - August 26, 2008

A G E N D A

Board of Governors Meeting

August 26, 2008

7:00 p.m. @ President Guerra’s home @ 650 Leucadendra Drive

1) Welcome & report on selection of five member proxy committee & volunteers to serve on the Board (five seats up for re-election- all existing Board members have agreed to serve another term) - RENE GUERRA, PRESIDENT (Notice of meeting and proxies must be placed in mail prior to September 11th., Kathleen will be in Ireland for three weeks)

2) Financial Report: - ANTHONY ARGIZ, TREASURER - Review & approve proposed 2008/09 fiscal year budget with increase in application fee from $30,000. To $60,000 as of October 1, 2008

3) Purposed amendments to the By-Laws of Gables Estates Club, Inc., Board approve for mailing to membership.- RENE GUERRA, PRESIDENT

4) Beautification Committee Report: - SISSY RUFFE, CHAIR

a) Status of Traffic Loop @ Arvida Parkway - Final Payments to Architect and Contractor Held UNTIL Final C.O. RECEIVED

b) Review Chair’s recommendation from bid process: Landscaping Maintenance & Clipping Hedge for right of ways

c) Request approval for funding of additional Ground Lighting at bridge and Island location. approximate total $22,000.

5) Security Report: - RENE GUERRA ON BEHALF OF CRISTINA MIRANDA, CHAIR

a) MTO continue to do stop checks of post /Independent Consultant’s Report

b) Phase III - Cameras installed at the Arvida South Old Cutler Road - Parker to Furst - Security Sound Systems replaced cameras with units that record day and night. Final payment made to SSS and relationship dissolved.

c) Request approval for funding of Phase III Old Cutler North Side Camera approximately $25,000.

d) Request approval for funding of Maintenance Service Agreement approximately $9,000.

e) Hurricane Preparedness Notice went out to full membership

f) Off Duty Coral Gables Police - implementing radar detail at least once a month

g) By-Law Special Permit Requirements for Construction being enforced by City of Coral Gables

6) Facilities Report: - BILL BOX, CHAIR

a) City Addressed Gables Estates Road Conditions with re-paving key areas and stripping roads markings

b) Variance recommendation for 457 Leucadendra Drive, Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Bell

7) Old Business / New Business: (from Board Members)

a) Reminder to use Website and Blog -

b) COMMODORE DANIEL CANALES - Yacht Club to sponsor a Holiday Yacht Parade within Gables Estates Waterways

8) Announcements / Closing:- RENE GUERRA- PRESIDENT

Gables Estates calls upon members to actively join the Board of Governors for volunteers and input

Dear Club Member:

I trust you and your family are having a pleasant summer. Our annual meeting will be held on Thursday, October 30, 2008 at 7:30 p.m. at Fairchild Gardens. Please mark this date on your calendar, we would appreciate your attendance and input regarding community issues. Currently, very few members are participating in Club affairs. You will be receiving formal notification of the Annual Meeting shortly. Please note Kathleen will be away for most of the month of September, any sales business must take place either prior or after her leave..

The nominating committee will meet in late August to nominate five (5) Club members to serve on the Board of Governors for the next two (2) year term.

If you would like to serve on the Board of Governors or you can donate your time to one of our committees, please contact Kathleen at 305-248-7746.

We need members who are willing to participate in Club meetings and bring ideas for the betterment of our Community. Next year’s main items of concern the Board wishes to address will be a continuum of last year’s issues, including sticker enforcement of City Code & the Club’s Rules and Regulations, Enhancement of Security, Canal and Road improvements. We certainly look forward to hearing from anyone who would like to assist our community.

Here are the Club committees:
a) Security
b) Architectural & Review
c) Beautification
d) Facilities (roads & canals) 
e) Newsletter & Website & Blog 
f) Membership
g) Children’s Club
h) Liaison

Your involvement in our Club is essential to enhancing quality of life, so volunteer if you are able.

I look forward to seeing you in October. Best regards to you and your family

Rene Guerra, President Gables Estates Club Members
August 4, 2008:

Gables Estates resident Shalala awarded Presidential Medal of Freedom

University of Miami president Donna Shalala - a former Clinton Cabinet member who was appointed by President Bush to head up a committee to improve veterans' care - has been awarded a presidential medal of freedom, the White House announced today.

According to the White House, the medal is the nation's highest civil award. Established by executive order in 1963, the medal may be awarded by the president to "any person who has made an especially meritorious contribution ... to the security or national interests of the United States...or world peace..."

The recipients were honored at a White House ceremony on June 19. Other honorees include HIV/AIDS researcher Anthony Fauci, the late Rep. Tom Lantos, the only Holocaust survivor to serve in Congress; and Gen. Peter Pace, U.S. Marine Corps. (Ret.)

The White House called Shalala, "one of our nation's most distinguished educators and public officials. She has worked tirelessly to ensure that all Americans can enjoy lives of hope, promise and dignity."

Gables Estates addresses growing iguana concerns among residents

Due to the continued increase of the iguana population within Gables Estates, we ask each member to participate in a collective measure to humanely capture and relocate these reptiles to a more suitable environment. There are several services that many of our members have employed to trap and remove iguanas from their property. Services require a removal fee per iguana.

1) Critter Control 305-258-3587

2) Miami Animal Removal 786-594-1189

3) Club’s Maintenance Man, Jose Luis Orozco 305-667-3604 (off duty from Club)

Hurricane Season notice sent to Gables Estates residents

TO: The general membership:

FROM: The Board of Governors

SUBJECT: Hurricane Season 2008

Dear Club Member:

Here we are once again, hurricane season officially begins on June 1st and ends November 30th. Weather Experts are predicting a very active hurricane season again this year. Please make sure our security staff has an updated Gables Estates Contact Form on file for your property. (You may obtain a form at either gatehouse.) This information is necessary to provide the optimum security during your absence (storms, business travels, vacations, etc.).
In the event a Hurricane Advisory is issued, the Homeowner’s Association has requested Wackenhut security to report loose objects not anchored or secured to the appropriate homeowner, to work closely with the City so that garbage and debris are removed prior to the arrival of the storm, and to contact construction personnel on site to request construction material be secured.

Please notify Kathleen or Captain Urra at either gatehouse (Arvida 305-667-3604 or Casuarina 305-667-3295) to report loose objects, your assistance is greatly appreciated.The following are some helpful numbers for information and assistance:

1) Emergencies call 911

2) Special needs 305-460-5560

3) Electricity problems 305-442-8770 (FP&L)

4) Telephone line problems 611 or 305-780-2840 (BellSouth)

5) Coral Gables Citizen Information 305-460-5401

6) City Gas 305-693-4311

7) American Red Cross (Shelter Information) 305-644-1200

8) Wackenhut Station One 1-800-666-5808

Since Gables Estates is located in a flood zone, Coral Gables and Miami Dade County Zoning Boards recommend that all residents evacuate the area in the event of a Hurricane with a category of two or greater, winds reaching 96 miles per hour or above and a storm surge seven feet or higher.

Wackenhut Security and Coral Gables Police as well as all other emergency response personnel will evacuate the area during a mandated evacuation. Immediately following the mandatory evacuation/hurricane, Wackenhut officers will resume patrol and assist members whenever possible.

Any security related issues should be reported to Captain Urra for the Arvida side at 305-667-3604 or 305-667-3295 on Casuarina.

Proposed boat length ordinance passed unanimously by the Coral Gables City Commission

The Proposed City of Coral Gables Boat Length Ordinance was unanimously approved at the first reading of said ordinance on May 13, 2008 by the Coral Gables City Commission.

Revisions to City Proposed Boat Length Ordinance to be heard by Coral Gables City Commission

PLEASE NOTE: (1) UNDERLINED WORDS OR SENTENCES INDICATE THE
PROPOSED CHANGES TO THE CITY CODE; (2) WORDS OR SENTENCES IN RED
INDICATE ADDITIONAL CHANGES FROM THE ORDINANCE DISTRIBUTED ON

MAY 8, 2008.

Ordinance No.:________
Amended Waterways Ordinance
Page 1 of 6

CITY OF CORAL GABLES, FLORIDA
ORDINANCE NO. 2008-_____
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CITY CODE CHAPTER 86, ENTITLED

"WATERWAYS", DIVISION 2, ENTITLED "ANCHORING, MOORING, ETC.";

IN PARTICULAR, SECTION 86-59, ENTITLED "TO ABUTTING PROPERTY",

BY RESTRICTING THE PLACEMENT AND PROJECTION OF BOATS OR

WATERCRAFT WHEN ANCHORED, MOORED, OR TIED UP TO

WATERFRONT PROPERTY; SECTION 86-60, ENTITLED "OTHER THAN

ABUTTING PROPERTY" BY ALLOWING ANCHORING OR MOORING OF

BOATS OR WATERCRAFT TO OTHERS DURING DOCK CONSTRUCTION

OR IMPROVEMENTS, SUBJECT TO SUFFICIENT ACCESS FOR SAFE

NAVIGATION; SECTION 86-61, ENTITLED "ENFORCEMENT BY CHIEF OF

POLICE" BY FURTHER AUTHORIZING CODE ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS

TO ENFORCE CERTAIN PROVISIONS OF THE CODE; ADDING SECTION 86-62,

ENTITLED "DEFINITIONS"; DIVISION 3, ENTITLED "OCEAN AND

WATERWAY REGULATIONS", MODIFYING THE TITLE OF SECTION 86-84,

TO "WATERCRAFT AS HAZARDS; UNOBSTRUCTED WATERWAYS", IN

ADDITION WITHIN THE SAME SECTION, DECLARING IT UNLAWFUL TO

POSITION A BOAT OR WATERCRAFT IN SUCH A WAY TO INTERFERE

WITH THE NAVIGATION THROUGH THE CITY WATERWAYS; AND

FURTHER AMENDING SECTION 86-86, ENTITLED "HURRICANE

PROCEDURE- REGULATIONS", BY DECLARING IT UNLAWFUL TO MOOR

A BOAT OR WATERCRAFT TO PRIVATE PROPERTY WITHOUT CONSENT;

PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY, REPEALER, CODIFICATION, AND AN

EFFECTIVE DATE

WHEREAS, the City of Coral Gables Commission finds that there is an alarminging increase of large boats and commercial watercraft which are being anchored, moored or tied up to waterfront properties within the city limits which have had a deleterious effect upon the City’s residents, marine life, and the navigability of the city waterways; and


WHEREAS, the Florida Statutes Section 253.141 provides that riparian rights are thoseincident to land bordering upon navigable waters and include the rights of ingress, egress, boating, bathing, and fishing and such others as may be or have been defined by law (Also see, Thiesen v. Gulf, F. & A., Ry. Co. 78 So.2d 491 (Fla. 1918))

City of Coral Gables Boat Length Ordinance Draft provided to Gables Estates residents

CITY OF CORAL GABLES, FLORIDA



ORDINANCE NO. 2008-_____





AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CITY CODE CHAPTER 86, ENTITLED “WATERWAYS”, DIVISION 2, ENTITLED “ANCHORING, MOORING, ETC.”; IN PARTICULAR, SECTION 86-59, ENTITLED “TO ABUTTING PROPERTY”, BY RESTRICTING THE PLACEMENT AND PROJECTION OF BOATS OR WATERCRAFT WHEN ANCHORED, MOORED, OR TIED UP TO WATERFRONT PROPERTY; SECTION 86-60, ENTITLED “OTHER THAN ABUTTING PROPERTY” BY ALLOWING ANCHORING OR MOORING OF BOATS OR WATERCRAFT TO OTHERS DURING DOCK CONSTRUCTION OR IMPROVEMENTS, SUBJECT TO SUFFICIENT ACCESS FOR SAFE NAVIGATION; SECTION 86-61, ENTITLED “ENFORCEMENT BY CHIEF OF POLICE” BY FURTHER AUTHORIZING CODE ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS TO ENFORCE CERTAIN PROVISIONS OF THE CODE; ADDING SECTION 86-62, ENTITLED “DEFINITIONS”; AND FURTHER AMENDING DIVISION 3, ENTITLED “OCEAN AND WATERWAY REGULATIONS”, MODIFYING THE TITLE OF SECTION 86-84, TO “WATERCRAFT AS HAZARDS; UNOBSTRUCTED WATERWAYS”, IN ADDITION WITHIN THE SAME SECTION, DECLARING IT UNLAWFUL TO POSITION A BOAT OR WATERCRAFT IN SUCH A WAY TO INTERFERE WITH THE NAVIGATION THROUGH THE CITY WATERWAYS; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY, REPEALER, CODIFICATION, AND AN EFFECTIVE DATE

WHEREAS, the City of Coral Gables Commission finds that there is an alarming increase of large boats and commercial watercraft which are being anchored, moored or tied up to waterfront properties within the city limits which have had a deleterious effect upon the City’s residents; and

WHEREAS, Florida Statutes Section 253.141 provides that riparian rights are those incident to land bordering upon navigable waters and include the rights of ingress, egress, boating, bathing, and fishing and such others as may be or have been defined by law (Also see, Thiesen v. Gulf, F. & A., Ry. Co.78 So.2d 491 (Fla. 1918)); and

WHEREAS, in order to protect adjoining property owners from boats or watercraft encroaching unto their property line, the City of Coral Gables Commission desires to regulate the mooring and anchoring of boats or watercrafts in the waterways under its jurisdiction; and

WHEREAS, the City of Coral Gables Commission wishes to regulate the occasion for mooring or anchoring a boat or watercraft in order to avoid a position that endangers, interferes, or impedes with the navigation of other boats or watercraft through the City waterways; and

WHEREAS, the State and Federal regulations exist governing waterways and these regulations supplement those State and Federal regulations.

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE COMMISION OF THE CITY OF CORAL GABLES, FLORIDA THAT:

Section 1. The recitals and findings contained in the Preamble to this Ordinance are adopted by reference and incorporated as if fully set forth in this Section.

Section 2. The City Code of the City of Coral Gables, Florida is hereby amended to provide additional restrictions and prohibitions under Chapter 86, entitled “Waterways”, Division 2, entitled “Anchoring, mooring, etc.” amending Section 86-59, entitled “To abutting property” to read as follows:

DIVISION 2. ANCHORING, MOORING, ETC.

Sec. 86-59. To abutting property.

(1) It shall be unlawful for any person to anchor, moor or tie up any boat or watercraft of any and every nature whatsoever to any waterfront property abutting the waterways and canals within the city, unless he is the owner of the property to which the boat or watercraft is anchored, moored or tied up or is the lessee of improved property having a dwelling structure thereon, under a written lease from the owner of the fee simple title to such property or is the guest in the house of the owner of improved property having a dwelling structure thereon, except in an emergency.

(2) It shall be unlawful for any person to anchor, moor or tie up any boat or watercraft of any and every nature whatsoever to any waterfront property abutting the waterways and canals within the city in such a position that the length of the boat or watercraft extends beyond the side property lines of the property or is of such a length that when docked or anchored adjacent to such property it extends beyond such side property lines, unless the adjoining property owners agree to such extension. if the length of the boat or watercraft extends beyond the adjoining owner’s property line or projects from the adjoining owner’s property line.Lot lines shall be extended into the waterway for purposes of the measurement.

(3) It shall be unlawful to moor, anchor or tie up a commercial boat or watercraft in residential districts to conduct any commercial activity.

Sec. 86-60. Other than abutting property.

(1) It shall be unlawful for any person to anchor or moor any boat or watercraft in the waterways and canals within the city other than to property abutting on the waterways, such as, but not limited to, any other boat or watercraft, except during dock construction at the construction site or for , maintenance or improvements and only when there is sufficient access for safe navigation of a boat or watercraft through the passage in the waterway. unless he When requesting to moor or anchor a boat or watercraft to another such vessel during any construction or improvement, the abutting property owner shall first have obtained a permit for the construction or improvement and such permit shall be displayed on the property. applied to, and received from the chief of police, a designated spot, at which such craft may be anchored or moored. In making such application to the chief of police, such information shall be given by the seeker of the anchoring or mooring privilege as the chief shall deem necessary or expedient for the purpose of rendering the waterway safe for the passage and use by the craft thereof.

(2)(0)It shall be unlawful to moor, anchor or tie up a boat or watercraft in a position that endangers, interferes, or impedes with the navigation of other boats or watercraft through the waterways.

(3) A clear channel shall at all times be left open to permit free and unobstructed navigation through the City’s waterways.

Sec. 86-61. Enforcement by chief of police.

The chief of police or designee is hereby authorized and designated to receive such information, keep records and details provided for in sections 86-59 and 86-60 and the police department and any code enforcement official is hereby authorized to enforce and carry out the provisions of this division. division Section.

Sec. 86-62. Definitions.

Boat or watercraft means any human, motor, wind, non-powered or artificially propelled water conveyance and every other description of boat or watercraft used or capable of being used as a means of transportation in the water and used for pleasure by the owner or others.

Boat mooring space means any place where a boat or watercraft can be anchored, moored, or tied up, and the entire portion of boat lifts, personal watercraft lifts, davits, mooring piles, wharfs, or other similar structures or equipment used in the anchoring, mooring, or tying up of boats or watercraft.

Commercial boat or watercraft means any boat or watercraft conducting an excursion, sightseeing, drift fishing, charter boat, head boat, or other watercraft, providing services to the public for compensation.

Length means the measurement from the tip of the bow in a straight line to the stern, including the rudders, outboard motor brackets, handles, and other similar fittings, attachments, and extensions.

DIVISION 3. OCEAN AND WATERWAY REGULATIONS

Sec. 86-84. Watercrafts as hazards; notice, removal unobstructed waterways

(a) Whenever, in the opinion of the police chief, or designee the condition of any watercraft in the city waterway is such as to constitute a hazard, either to the safe passage of other water craft or because of due to the unsanitary conditions created thereby, or because of due to the dilapidation or unsightliness thereof, the owner of such watercraft shall, within three days after receiving notice from the police chief, or designee, director of public safety remove such watercraft from the city waterway, and for failure to do so shall be guilty of an offense and the owner of the watercraft shall be responsible to the city for any cost or expense undertaken by the city for the purpose of removing the watercraft.

(b) It shall be unlawful to moor, anchor or tie up a boat or watercraft in a position that endanger, interferes, or impedes with the free and unobstructed navigation of other boats or watercrafts through the waterways, except as provided for in Section 86-86, entitled “Hurricane procedure-Regulations.”

Sec. 86-86. Hurricane procedure- Regulations.

(a) In consonance with the provisions of this article and in recognition of the inherent responsibility of the city to protect the lives and property of its citizens, the chief of police will promulgate, distribute, post, and enforce regulations for the use of the city waterway in the event of a hurricane, or other act of God or natural disaster. It is recognized that a hurricane is considered a natural disaster or an act of God, and therefore, certain regulations, laws and ordinances may be negated by such an event.

(b) In view of the proficiency of the National Hurricane Center in predicting a hurricane, the following shall obtain:

(1) Vessels using the city waterway for refuge will be securely moored not later than 24 hours prior to the officially predicted approach of a hurricane.

(2) Such vessels will be moored only with adequate equipment and safeguards and in a manner so as to eliminate or minimize damage to other vessels, property or persons in the city. However, no such mooring will constitute an official approval thereof by the city, and no resultant damages or liability will accrue against the city.

(3) It should be clearly understood that any damages to vessels, property or persons flowing from any hurricane moorings in the city waterway will be the personal responsibility and liability of the vessel’s owner, including removal or salvage of the vessels.

Section 3. Severability.

If any section, sentence, clause, or phrase of this Ordinance is held to be invalid or unconstitutional by any court of competent jurisdiction, then said holding shall in no way affect the validity of the remaining portions of this Ordinance.

Section 4. Repealer.

All ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict herewith, are and the same are hereby repealed.

Section 5. Codification.

It is the intention of the Commission of the City of Coral Gables, Florida, that the provisions of this Ordinance shall become and be made a part of the City of Coral Gables Code of Ordinances; and that the sections of this ordinance may be renumbered or relettered to accomplish such intention, and the word “ordinance” may be changed to “section”, “article”, or such other appropriate word or phrase in order to accomplish such intentions.

Section 6. Effective Date.

This ordinance shall become effective immediately upon the date of its adoption by the City Commission.


PASSED AND ADOPTED this __________ day of ______________ 2008.





___________________________________

DONALD D. SLESNICK II, MAYOR

ATTEST:



________________________________

WALTER FOEMAN

CITY CLERK

APPROVED AS TO FORM AND

LEGAL SUFFICIENCY:





___________________________________

ELIZABETH M. HERNANDEZ
CITY ATTORNEY

Public Works Director, Alberto Delgado's commitment to Gables Estates Club

For your information on April 17th I met with Gables Estates Homeowners' Association chairman, Mr. Rene Guerra, Mr. Bill Box, the Club's Administrator, and Kathleen Richardson, Administrator to the Board of Governors, to discuss the streets condition and repair schedules for that area. As part of the discussion the rating system that Public Works uses to evaluate our streets was fully explained. It was also discussed the fact that even though their streets are rating in the upper 70's and low 80's, their rating is relatively higher than the rating of other streets in the City which are in the high 60's and low 70's, and which we are currently addressing.
I reiterated the fact that based on our Street Improvement Schedule, and due to the limited amount of funding that we have for that purpose every year, we will not be able to reconstruct their streets in approximately three years, which will bring them to the 2011/2012 component of the City's Street Improvement Program, at which time the improvements will be done at no cost to the homeowners.

After listening to their concerns and reviewing some of the photographs that they have taken of specific areas in which the roads are showing signs of deterioration, it was agreed that in the interim Public Works will address those situations immediately in a three-phase approach:

Phase 1 - Identify all the areas that due to their deterioration must be addressed immediately and proceed with the milling and resurfacing of those sections of the roads.

Phase 2 - Subsequently, identify all the areas in which the edge of pavement has been eroded and the surface is uneven, in order to make the necessary corrections.

Phase 3 - Concurrently, identify all the areas that need re-striping in order to make a formal request to the County for implementation. If the County does not provide us with a timely schedule for the implementation, the City will use its contractor and make the necessary arrangements with the County for payment.

As a follow-up to the meeting Noel Polo, Survey Chief, met at the site with Ms. Richardson on April 22nd to identify and mark all the areas of concern and prepare a plan of action.

The City is currently working in the repairs of the force main along Arvida Drive and additional patches have been placed on that road (see picture sent by Ms. Richardson on her April 22nd e-mail). The complete replacement of that line was authorized and work is in progress. Once this work is completed, that portion of the road will be addressed as part of Phase 1 of our schedule.

The above confirms what transpired at the meeting and our commitment to address the present condition of the Gables Estates streets.



R. Alberto Delgado, P.E.

Public Works Director

(305) 460-5001

Fax (305) 460-5080

Proper garbage containers and recycle bins as well as yard clippings need to be placed on right of ways

To: General Membership

From:Board of Governors

Date:April 28, 2008

Subject: Garbage Containers, Recycle Bins and Clipping Piles on Right of Ways

Please note that all garbage containers are to be kept on your property within twenty feet of the rear lot line, Section 21-47(b) City of Coral Gables Code. Trash pick up day is Monday and you may start placing your bulk trash out at 6:00 p.m. on Sunday.
We ask for your cooperation in making our community a more attractive place by adhering to City Code. Please be aware that the City Code Enforcement Officer will be strictly enforcing all offensives.

Please inform your employees not to place any type of garbage or trash; such as cardboard boxes, tires, plastic, appliances, furniture, or industrial wastes or recycling material on your parkway. Please instruct your employees and landscape providers not to place clippings on anyone else’s property or right of way. This practice is prohibited in Gables Estates and is a violation to City Code.

With these steps, our members will be eliminating unsightly debris from the right of ways. Together we can make a tremendous difference in upgrading our boulevards’ appearance immediately with very little effort.
Your Board thanks you in advance for your cooperation with taking the time to speak with your staff and landscape provider with this matter.

March Security Meeting

A Security Meeting took place at the home of Chairperson, Mrs. Cristina Miranda, 410 Leucadendra Drive on Monday, March 17, 2008 at 5:00 p.m. Present were: Mr. Rene Guerra, President, Mrs. Cristina Miranda, Chair; Ms. Maria Ortega from MTO Investigations and Kathleen Richardson, Administrator to the Board of Governors.

Recap: Ms. Ortega was hired as a consultant to review the tags of the evening and morning of 2/26-2/27 and tapes from the post and report back to this Security Committee her findings and recommendations.

Ms. Ortega was welcomed to the meeting. Ms. Ortega stated the Wackenhut Officers need to be retrained to complete the traffic tags uniformly, concise and legibly detailing the make of vehicle, color of vehicle, licence tag and amount of occupants.

Ms. Ortega stated that the infra red camera is not working and has not been working since January 21st. That the replacement camera is not on site and this is unacceptable. She discussed her concerns with the malfunctions and lack of visibility of the camera systems. She discussed the poor lighting and flood lighting of the cameras making the visibility difficult. She questioned why Wackenhut had not addressed this issue as a security concern. She stated Security Sound Systems should be held accountable for correcting the poor visibility at night and continuos dropping of the Old Cutler Road camera system. Ms. Ortega stated that all the cameras, including the waterway cameras, should be working twenty four hours per day. She recommended using a service agreement for this purpose. She added that Wackenhut should document all discrepancies and make sure being addressed. The Wackenhut company should provide professional knowledge to assure the cameras are installed and working properly for their staff.

Ms. Ortega stated the workers and contractors going into the community are not being logged in by the security staff. Even though the security staff may know the workers and contractors, she advises that they be logged in the traffic log each time they enter the community.

Kathleen stated Wackenhut management had designed a new traffic log which was implemented on the post as of yesterday. She added that she is awaiting the new document promised by Mr. Esquivel from Wackenhut which will detail that management is viewing the traffic logs against the tapes and reporting discrepancies to this Security Committee. Ms. Ortega recommended that Wackenhut run a license check on the tags in questions from 2/26-2/27 and see what comes back from the DMV.

Mrs. Miranda recommended using a portable stop sign to stop traffic at the entrance when the power goes out and the arms no longer function until the power goes back on.

Mr. Guerra once again discussed the gap between the gate and fence on the Hector property off Old Cutler Road and Arvida Parkway. Kathleen will discuss this with the property owner to see if this can be corrected.

Ms. Ortega recommended scheduling regular meetings with Wackenhut management to review the post protocol and hold Wackenhut management accountable for assuring the quality of the service on the post.

Ms. Ortega recommended hiring a security consultant to review the entire security operation.

Kathleen stated that all officers must be trained to properly operate the security cameras and that Wackenhut management must hold true to their commitment to review the traffic tags and tape at least once a month and give a written report to Gables Estates for quality control.

Mr. Guerra requested a complete inventory of all items and a form having authorized person/s sign prior to removing items from the post: 1) Wackenhut Inventory on site, 2) Cameras, Monitors and support equipment on site and 3) Gables Estates supplies and inventory on site. Ms. Ortega stated Kathleen should check and account for the inventory every thirty days.

Kathleen was instructed to implement Ms. Ortega’s recommendations and to address the Site Supervisor seeking corrections to the post immediately.

Mrs. Miranda agreed to write a letter to Wackenhut management going over the consultant’s findings with a copy of the consultants report enclosed. Mrs. Miranda will include in her letter that the consultant will do a follow up review in 30, 60 and 90 days.



There being no other business the committee adjourned at 7:00 p.m.

Mrs. Cristina Miranda, Chair

Mr. Rene Guerra, Co-Chair

ANNUAL MINUTES OF OCTOBER 25, 2007 MEETING

THE ANNUAL MEETING OF THE MEMBERSHIP OF GABLES ESTATES CLUB, INC., TOOK PLACE AT FAIRCHILD TROPICAL GARDEN, BALLROOM, 10901 OLD CUTLER ROAD, MIAMI, FLORIDA AT 7:30 P.M. THURSDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2007.

WELCOME & INTRODUCTION

MR. BILL MIRANDA, PRESIDENT, CALLED THE MEETING TO ORDER AND WELCOMED THOSE PRESENT. MR. MIRANDA INTRODUCED THOSE BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT: MR. RENE GUERRA, SECRETARY, DIRECTORS; MRS. SISSY RUFFE, WHOM HE THANKED FOR A GREAT JOB SHE HAD DONE AND IS DOING ON THE BEATIFICATION COMMITTEE, MR. JACK ROSS, MR. DANIEL CANEL, MRS. TRISH BELL, WHOM HE THANKED FOR HER WORK WITH THE ADMISSIONS COMMITTEE AND MR. BILL BOX.

MR. MIRANDA THANKED THOSE MEMBERS IN ATTENDANCE AND STATED THE ANNUAL MEETINGS ARE THE BEST FORUM FOR MEMBERSHIP TO DISCUSS THEIR ISSUES WITH THE BOARD AND VERY FEW PEOPLE ATTEND THESE MEETINGS.

PROXY REPORT

MR. CANEL, CHAIR OF THE PROXY COMMITTEE GAVE THE FOLLOWING REPORT:

THERE ARE 193 VOTING INTERESTS IN GABLES ESTATES, EVERYONE OWNING A LOT IN GABLES ESTATES IS ENTITLED TO VOTE, IN ACCORDANCE WITH FLORIDA STATUE 617.305 (a). FLORIDA STATUTES 617.305(1) PROVIDES THAT 30% OF THE VOTING INTEREST SHALL CONSTITUTE A QUORUM. 30% x 192 = 57.90 VOTING INTERESTS SHALL CONSTITUTE A QUORUM. THE NUMBER OF INTERESTS VOTING BY PROXY IS 63. THE NUMBER OF INTERESTS VOTING IN PERSON IS 11. THE TOTAL NUMBER VOTING IS 74; THEREFORE, WE HAVE A LEGAL QUORUM. SIGNED: MR. DANIEL CANEL, CHAIR.


MINUTES
- APRIL 26, 2007


MR. MIRANDA ASKED FOR A MOTION TO BE MADE THAT THE READING OF THE MINUTES OF THE ANNUAL MEETING OF APRIL 26, 2007 BE WAIVED AND BE ADOPTED AS CIRCULATED TO THE MEMBERSHIP. A MOTION WAS SO MOVED AND SECONDED. ALL WERE IN FAVOR AND THE MOTION CARRIED.

NOMINATIONS TO THE BOARD OF GOVERNORS



MR. GUERRA, CHAIR STATED THE NOMINATING COMMITTEE MET AT THE HOME OF THE CHAIR, MR. RENE GUERRA, 650 LEUCADENDRA DRIVE, ON TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2007, AT 7:00 P.M. THOSE SERVING ON THE NOMINATING COMMITTEE WERE: CHAIR; MR. RENE GUERRA, MRS. PAT BOHN, MR. BILL BOX, MR. SALVADOR JURADO, AND MR. GONZALO PALENZUELA,

NAMES OF PERSONS NOMINATED:

MR. ANTONIO ARGIZ OF 395 CASUARINA CONCOURSE

MRS. BUNNY BASTIAN OF 140 ARVIDA PARKWAY

MRS. TRISH BELL OF 100 CASUARINA CONCOURSE/457 LEUCADENDRA DRIVE

MR. BILL MIRANDA OF 410 LEUCADENDRA DRIVE

IT WAS UNANIMOUSLY AGREED THAT THE ABOVE FOUR (4) NAMES WOULD BE PRESENTED FOR NOMINATION TO THE BOARD OF GOVERNORS.

ALL FOUR (4) MEMBERS HAVE AGREED TO SERVE ON THE BOARD. MR. GUERRA ASKED IF THERE WERE ANY ADDITIONAL NOMINATIONS TO BE MADE FROM THE FLOOR. HEARING NONE: NOMINATIONS ARE CLOSED AND MR. GUERRA WELCOMED THE FOUR NEWLY ELECTED MEMBERS TO THE BOARD.

ADMISSION COMMITTEE

MRS. BELL READ AND WELCOMED THE FOLLOWING NEW MEMBERS APPROVED SINCE THE CLUB’S LAST SEMI ANNUAL MEETING, SIX MONTHS:

MR. AND MRS. FERNANDO CAMPOS, 431 ARVIDA PARKWAY

MR. AND MRS. AGUSTIN HERRAN, 500 ARVIDA PARKWAY

PROFESSOR AND MRS. MATTHEW HUDSON - 105 ARVIDA PARKWAY AND MR. AND MRS. RANDALL FIORENZA - 530 ARVIDA PARKWAY, MRS. SANDRA FIORENZA WAS PRESENT AND WELCOMED BY THE MEMBERSHIP.

BEAUTIFICATION COMMITTEE

MRS. RUFFE, CHAIR OF THE BEAUTIFICATION COMMITTEE STATED THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE ARVIDA AND CASUARINA GATEHOUSES ARE COMPLETE AND FINAL C.O. SHOULD BE GIVEN ONCE THE ITEMS ON THE PUNCH LIST ARE FULFILLED. THE CASUARINA ENTRANCE SIGNS ARE INSTALLED AND THATCH PALMS WILL BE PLANTED BEHIND THEM SHORTLY. MRS. RUFFE STATED SHE IS CURRENTLY LOOKING AT BIDS FOR SCROLL WORK TO BE PLACED ON THE CORNERS OF EACH SIGN. THE LANDSCAPE LIGHTING FOR ARVIDA AND CASUARINA ENTRANCE IS UNDERWAY. LANDSCAPE LIGHTING ON CASUARINA WILL START FROM OLD CUTLER AND END AT THE NEW GUARDHOUSE.

MRS. FRIDMAN ADDRESSED THE BOARD WITH SEVERAL CONCERNS REGARDING TREE TRIMMING, DRAINAGE CLEANED OF DEBRIS, LANDSCAPING AND IMPROPER CLIPPING DISPOSAL ON CASUARINA CONCOURSE. DISCUSSION TOOK PLACE.

SECURITY COMMITTEE
MR. RENE GUERRA
, CHAIR OF SECURITY, GAVE THE FOLLOWING REPORT:


THE ARVIDA CAMERAS ARE 100% UP AND RUNNING, THIS INCLUDES WATERWAY CAMERAS AT ALL LOCATIONS; RILEY, DIAZ, POTAMKIN, ORTEGA AND MIRANDA- VACANT LOT. THE ENTRANCE CAMERAS INCLUDE SIDE VIEWS, LICENSE PLATE AND IN AND OUT VIEWS WITH ONE CAMERA FACING INTO THE COMMUNITY. THE CASUARINA CAMERAS ARE IDENTICAL TO THOSE ON ARVIDA. INSTALLATION OF THREE OLD CUTLER ROAD CAMERAS FROM FURST TO PARKER PROPERTY WILL TAKE PLACE IN APPROXIMATELY THREE MONTHS AND WILL BE MONITORED AT THE GATEHOUSES. SECOND WACKENHUT PATROL WILL BE ESTABLISHED EFFECTIVE JANUARY 1ST WITH AN ADDITIONAL FORTY HOURS PER WEEK COVERAGE. THE VEHICLE WILL ALSO BE UTILIZED FOR THE BIKE AND BOAT PATROL DURING INCLEMENT WEATHER.

MR. GUERRA REMINDED THE MEMBERS THAT WACKENHUT OFFICERS HAVE BEEN INSTRUCTED TO ENFORCE THE CITY OF CORAL GABLES CODE WHICH PROHIBITS CONSTRUCTION AND LABORERS WORKING PRIOR TO 7:30 A.M. AND AFTER 6:00 P.M. MONDAY THROUGH FRIDAYS; PRIOR TO 9:00 A.M. AND AFTER 5:00 P.M. ON SATURDAYS AND NO ACTIVITY PERMITTED ON SUNDAYS. HE ALSO ASKED FOR MEMBERS COOPERATION AFTER 11:00 P.M. THE STAFF HAS BEEN INSTRUCTED TO CLOSE THE RESIDENTS LANE AND ASK ALL INCOMING TRAFFIC “MAY I HELP YOU?”. THE PRESIDENT STRESSED THE NEED FOR MEMBERSHIP COOPERATION SINCE THE POLICY IS FOR YOUR OWN AND YOUR FAMILIES PROTECTION.

MR. GUERRA STATED OFFICER MICHAEL HEARNS , CITY OF CORAL GABLES OFF DUTY COORDINATOR FOR GABLES ESTATES HAD CONTINUED TO DO AN OUTSTANDING JOB FOR OUR COMMUNITY AND WAS PRESENTED WITH A LETTER OF COMMENDATION FROM THE SECURITY COMMITTEE. OFFICER HEARNS STATED CRIME IN CORAL GABLES IS POTENTIALLY ON THE RISE. GANG RELATED CRIME, IS ON THE RISE BY 67% STATEWIDE. OTHER CRIME IS UP DUE IN PART TO THE TREMENDOUS GROWTH IN CORAL GABLES. HE STATED CURRENTLY THERE ARE EIGHT TO SIX UNSOLVED BANK ROBBERIES IN THE CITY OF CORAL GABLES. HE RECOMMENDED MEMBERS TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THE SERVICES AVAILABLE TO THEM BY WACKENHUT SUCH AS; WHENEVER A MEMBER FEELS SOMEONE IS FOLLOWING THEM, USE THE ESCORT HOME SERVICE AND UTILIZE THE HOUSE CHECKS WHEN AWAY. HE STRESSED BEING AWARE OF YOUR SURROUNDINGS WHEN OUTSIDE OF GABLES ESTATES AND KNOW YOUR EMPLOYEES SUCH AS LANDSCAPERS, POOL SERVICE AND OTHER SERVICE PROVIDERS. OFFICER HEARNS RECEIVED A WARM APPLAUSE FROM THE MEMBERSHIP.

OLD BUSINESS/NEW BUSINESS:

THE PRESIDENT STATED THE BOARD REPEATEDLY REQUESTED FROM THE CITY A SECOND TRASH PICK UP. THE CITY STATED THEY COULD NOT PROVIDE THAT SERVICE TO OUR COMMUNITY. WE RECEIVED TWO INDEPENDENT BIDS WHICH WERE COST PROHIBITED. THE PRESIDENT STATED THE BOARD WILL CONTINUE TO PURSUE THIS ENDEAVOR WITH THE CITY AND REPORT BACK TO THE MEMBERSHIP. MR. MIRANDA STATED THE BOARD NEEDS MEMBERSHIP INVOLVEMENT TO MEET WITH THE CITY TO RESOLVE THE NEED FOR IMPROVEMENTS TO OUR INFRASTRUCTURE SUCH AS SEWER, UTILITIES, ROAD AND CANAL CONDITIONS.

APPLICATION FEE:

MR. MIRANDA STATED THE APPLICATION FEE WILL INCREASE TO $30,000. EFFECTIVE JANUARY 1, 2008.

HALLOWEEN HAYRIDE & PARTY:

THE 11TH ANNUAL HALLOWEEN HAYRIDE AND PARTY WILL TAKE PLACE ON WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 31ST, BETWEEN 6:00 P.M. AND 9:00 P.M. IN FRONT OF 199 ARVIDA PARKWAY. PLEASE CALL PATRICIA CRUZ AT 305-562-6293 TO RSVP.

20TH ANNUAL BLOCK PARTY:

MRS. ROSS STATED THE 20TH ANNUAL BLOCK PARTY WILL TAKE PLACE THE SECOND SUNDAY IN FEBRUARY BETWEEN 2:00 P.M. AND 5:00 P.M. THE THEME WILL BE “THE AUSTRALIAN OUTBACK”. PLEASE MAKE SURE YOU SAVE THIS DATE ON YOUR CALENDAR. MRS. ROSS WAS THANKED BY THE MEMBERSHIP.

NEWSLETTER:

MR. MIRANDA THANKED MRS. AMY HERNANDEZ FOR THE “NEW” NEWSLETTER WHICH THE BOARD AGREED LOOKED GREAT.


ELECTION OF OFFICERS:


PRESIDENTMRS. RUFFE MOVED TO NOMINATE MR. MIRANDA AS PRESIDENT. MRS BELL SECONDED THE MOTION. ALL WERE IN FAVOR . THE MOTION PASSED.
VICE PRESIDENT
MRS. RUFFE MOVED TO NOMINATE MR. GUERRA AS VICE PRESIDENT. MR. CANEL SECONDED THE MOTION AND ALL WERE IN FAVOR
TREASURER
MRS. RUFFE NOMINATED MR. ARGIZ AS TREASURER. MR. BOX SECONDED THE MOTION AND IT UNANIMOUSLY PASSED.

SECRETARY

MRS RUFFE MOVED TO NOMINATE MR. BOX AS SECRETARY. MR. CANEL SECONDED THE MOTION AND ALL WERE IN FAVOR.

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

THE BOARD AGREED THAT THE PRESIDENT, VICE PRESIDENT AND SECRETARY WOULD SERVE THE BOARD AS THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE.

COMMITTEES:

MR. MIRANDA, THE NEWLY ELECTED PRESIDENT, STATED HE WOULD LIKE TO SEE A CONTINUITY AND APPOINTED THE FOLLOWING TO SERVE AS CHAIRS:
SECURITY

- RENE GUERRA
ARCHITECTURAL

- BILL BOX
BEAUTIFICATION

- SISSY RUFFE
FACILITIES

- JOSE BARED, BILL BOX AND BUNNY BASTIAN
ADMISSION COMMITTEE

- TRISH BELL, DANIEL CANEL AND BUNNY BASTIAN
NEWSLETTER / WEBSITE - MRS. AMY HERNANDEZ

YACHT CLUB COMMODORE -
DANIEL CANEL


THE PRESIDENT ASKED IF THERE WAS ANY OLD OR NEW BUSINESS FROM THE MEMBERSHIP. HEARING NONE, MR. MIRANDA THANKED EVERYONE FOR ATTENDING TONIGHT’S MEETING.

ADJOURNMENT

THERE BEING NO FURTHER BUSINESS, MRS. RUFFE MADE A MOTION TO ADJOURN THE MEETING. MRS. BELL SECONDED. ALL WERE IN FAVOR. THE MEETING WAS ADJOURNED AT 9:15 P.M.

_____________________________________________

MR. BILL MIRANDA, PRESIDENT

_____________________________________________

MR. RENE GUERRA, SECRETARY

Minutes - Security Briefing