Miramar approves $240,000 contract for legal and advocacy work to oppose potential waste‑to‑energy facilities

The Miramar City Commission on its late‑November agenda approved a contract engagement of up to $240,000 with the Goldstein Environmental Law Firm to represent the city in state‑level advocacy aimed at blocking future waste‑to‑energy facilities that could affect residents. Deputy Baker described the request as a continuation of a campaign the city began after a nearby facility fire rendered a facility inoperable and spurred county and municipal action.

Deputy Baker told the commission the procurement “is in the amount up to $240,000 for FY 2026,” and said that amount includes “$175,000 for legal services and $65,000 to retain a lobbyist.” He outlined the scope — drafting legislation, engaging experts, and working with state co‑counsel and elected officials. Commissioners asked whether the city had solicited bids or whether this was a continuation with prior counsel; Deputy Baker said it was continuing representation out of familiarity and prior engagement on the issue.

Commissioners pressed staff on the immediate threat level and the likelihood of success in Tallahassee. Deputy Baker said the city had seen recent outreach by two organizations to utilities and other entities to bring forward proposals, but “it does not state a location. However, we are monitoring that very closely.” Concerns about spending city funds on state advocacy were voiced; Commissioner Chambers noted other municipalities had contributed and asked how Miramar’s money would be stretched. The motion to approve the engagement passed on a unanimous roll‑call vote.

The contract was presented as a proactive measure to protect public health and the city’s boundaries; staff said funding sources include local donations and FY2026 budgeted advocacy funds. The commission did not attach a sunset to the contract but indicated legislative work would be monitored and reported back to the dais.