The Miami-Dade County Appropriations Committee convened on March 12, 2025, to discuss several key agenda items, including significant changes to the county's transportation services and a no-bid contract for election equipment.

The meeting commenced with a prayer led by Commissioner Gonzales, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance led by Commissioner Steinberg. After welcoming attendees and ensuring phones were silenced, the chair opened the floor for public comments, but no speakers approached the podium.

The committee then moved to set the agenda, which included additional items 3 L, 3 M, and 3 N, along with amendments to item 3 D and sponsorship changes for items 3 C and 3 G. The agenda was approved unanimously.

The first major item discussed was item 1 G 1, a resolution authorizing the Miami-Dade County Department of Transportation and Public Works to implement major service changes to the bus network effective July 21, 2025. The interim director of the department, Joffre Diaz, highlighted that the changes would introduce the South Quarter Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) service, which is part of the Smart program. He noted that the operational costs would be funded through the half-cent transit surtax, resulting in no additional burden on the general fund. The proposed changes are expected to yield a total savings of $3.3 million, with $5.3 million in savings realized from previous service adjustments.

Following the discussion on transportation, the committee addressed item 3 E, concerning a no-bid contract for election equipment. The chair emphasized the importance of transparency regarding the no-bid process and invited the supervisor of elections or a representative to clarify the necessity of this contract.

The meeting concluded with a focus on ensuring that all items were thoroughly discussed and understood, setting the stage for future actions and decisions regarding the county's services and operations.