The City Commission of Sunny Isles Beach approved a second amendment to the project agreement with BEA Architects to continue architectural design services for the renovation of city-owned property at 18050 Collins Avenue, bringing the total contract price to $416,018.88.

The amendment covers additional meetings and design work the city said is needed as plans evolved. Deputy staff described changes including a widened opening between the department side and an interior space used by the restaurant tenant (Crema), and relocation of restrooms to reduce wasted corridor space that would otherwise be closed off after hours.

Why it mattered: The property is intended to house the building department alongside a restaurant tenant; several commissioners expressed concern the design work for a building department — which the commission said will support online permitting — is adding costs to a property expected to generate rental income. Commissioner-level debate included speculation about future permit fees and whether the city should pay for design work that benefits a private tenant.

What commissioners said
- Commissioner (identified in transcript as) voiced strong objections to the additional design cost, called the increases a “disgrace” and said the project had become “a forever expense.” The commissioner said the council’s early promises had not been kept and urged that the next administration review the project. (Transcript: extended remarks criticizing increased cost and potential effects on permit fees.)
- Another commissioner called the criticism “an opinion” and noted that permit-fee schedules are set by fee studies; the vice mayor noted that recent fee revisions reduced residential permit fees and increased some developer fees.
- Several commissioners reminded the public that the commission previously agreed to split the property so part would house the building department and part would be commercial rental space, and that the amendment reflects design changes needed to accommodate that arrangement.

Outcome and implementation: The motion to approve the second amendment carried; the clerk recorded a majority vote. Staff told commissioners the amendment includes funds for additional meetings but that the city does not expect to use the full contingency. The item will proceed with design under the amended contract.

Clarifying details
- BEA Architects second amendment increases total contract price to $416,018.88 (staff presentation).
- The design revisions cited include widening an opening for the restaurant side (Crema) and relocating restrooms to avoid a locked hallway that would consume office space when the building department is closed.

Public comment and context: Several commissioners and members of the public referenced broader concerns about the project’s timeline and costs, including comments that the city had earlier discussed commercialization and rental income for the property. The exchange included sharp rhetoric but no formal change to the amendment.

Next steps: Staff will continue design work under the amended agreement and will return to the commission as required for further approvals.