The City Commission of North Miami Beach convened on October 26, 2023, to address several key issues, including the request for outside legal counsel and the waiver of late fees for business tax receipts.

One of the primary discussions centered on the need for outside counsel regarding ongoing litigation with Miami Gardens. City officials expressed the urgency of the matter, with a request for a quick vote to proceed. The commission agreed to hold a shade meeting to receive a briefing from the outside attorney on the current status of the litigation.

In another significant decision, the commission addressed the business tax receipt (BTR) department's performance since the COVID-19 pandemic. Many businesses had not renewed their BTRs, and the city had failed to send out invoices, leading to confusion and late fees. The staff proposed waiving these late fees, which amounted to less than $1,000 in total. The commission unanimously approved the motion to waive the fees, aiming to support local businesses during their renewal process.

Additionally, the city attorney informed the commission about a request from outside counsel for an increase in their hourly rate related to the Miami Gardens litigation. The commission was asked to consent to this adjustment, which was included in the meeting's materials.

Overall, the meeting highlighted the city's commitment to addressing legal matters efficiently while also supporting local businesses in their recovery efforts. The commission's decisions reflect a proactive approach to governance and community support.