The City Commission of Miramar, Florida, convened to discuss significant amendments to the city's land development code, primarily focusing on the newly proposed Live Local Act. This ordinance aims to facilitate the development of mixed-use affordable housing in commercial, industrial, and mixed-use zoning districts, aligning with recent state legislation aimed at increasing affordable housing availability.

The Live Local Act, which stems from Senate Bill 102 approved by the governor in 2023 and amended in 2024, seeks to establish comprehensive policies and regulations for qualified mixed-use developments. Key provisions include that at least 65% of the total square footage of these developments must be residential, with a minimum of 40% of residential units designated as affordable under Broward County's average median income guidelines. The maximum density for these developments is set at 25 units per acre.

The ordinance also introduces an administrative approval process for developers, allowing for streamlined project approvals, particularly in transit-oriented corridors where parking requirements can be significantly reduced or eliminated altogether. This change has raised concerns among some commissioners regarding the potential impact on local infrastructure and parking availability, especially given the current state of public transportation in the area.

Commissioner Barnes expressed apprehension about the implications of increased density and the adequacy of transportation options, noting that many buses currently operate with minimal ridership. He highlighted the historical significance of the areas affected by these changes and questioned the decision-making processes that seem disconnected from local realities.

Vice Mayor Davis echoed these concerns, particularly regarding the elimination of parking requirements in transit-oriented developments, questioning how this would function without robust public transportation options. He emphasized the need for a balanced approach that considers the realities of car ownership and parking availability in the community.

The commission also addressed amendments related to private schools, which would exempt certain developments from the conditional use process if they meet specific state requirements. This aspect of the ordinance reflects ongoing changes in state legislation that affect local governance and land use decisions.

The City Manager recommended approval of the ordinance, which aims to enhance affordable housing opportunities while navigating the complexities of local and state regulations. The commission's discussions highlighted the tension between state mandates and local control, with several members expressing frustration over the diminishing influence of local governance in land use decisions.