Miriam Jimenez, who says she is seeking to open a six‑bed transitional living facility at 603 Melaleuca Drive, asked the Margate City Commission on Oct. 8 for a short extension or a soft opening so investors could release funds and she could complete specialized equipment purchases.

Jimenez described the project as a physical‑rehabilitation facility, not a mental‑health program, and said the operator plans to import clinical equipment from Japan that uses sensors and robotic assistance to help stroke patients regain mobility. She told the commission the investor had committed money and that a $76,000 generator for the site already was purchased.

A staff member told the commission the matter is currently the subject of litigation and involves court costs and fees. “We are currently still in litigation with Jim Jimenez,” the staff member said. Jimenez disputed owing city money during her remarks and asked the commission for leniency so she could finish purchasing equipment and hire staff.

Mayor Arlene Schwartz responded directly to the litigation remark, saying, “We’re not in litigation, sir.” City staff asked the commission not to continue public discussion of the business tax receipt at the dais, and no formal action, vote or deadline extension was recorded at the meeting.

The exchange included the following clarifying points from the speaker: Jimenez said the city previously limited the facility to six beds, described the treatment as physical rehabilitation with advanced robotics and sensors, and said investors were prepared to release funds if the local business tax receipt were approved. A staff member advised the commission the city is handling court costs and fees and that the applicant had outstanding procedural requirements.

The commission did not take formal action during public comment. City staff and legal counsel will determine next steps through established licensing and enforcement processes before any license or occupancy change is permitted.