By Coral Gables Gazette staff
A historic structure, a high-profile board appointment, and a divisive foreign flag resolution are among the matters facing the Coral Gables City Commission on Thursday, as members meet ahead of this year’s final budget hearing.
The Sept. 25 agenda includes a proposed relocation of the century-old Gondola Building, a new nominee to the influential Planning and Zoning Board, a renewed debate over flying the Israeli flag above City Hall, and an ordinance to tighten public comment rules. Also on the docket: a proposed paid parking program at the Biltmore Hotel, updates on key infrastructure projects, and a public review of the city’s 2025 legislative agenda.
Crumbling Gondola Building’s uncertain future returns
Originally a 1920s tram station for Biltmore Hotel guests, the small Mediterranean Revival structure—known as the Gondola Building—has long stood as a testament to Coral Gables’ early architectural ambition. But decades of neglect left it vulnerable, and in November 2021, part of its façade collapsed.
This week, city staff will update the Commission on options for relocating the building. Previous proposals have stalled over disagreements on cost, engineering feasibility, and whether moving the structure would compromise its historic integrity. Notably, the building is not included in the Biltmore’s National Historic Landmark designation.
Alvarez nominated to Planning Board
Commissioner Melissa Castro has nominated attorney Ignacio “Iggy” Alvarez to the Planning and Zoning Board. A litigator with experience in law enforcement, corporate investigations, and regulatory compliance, Alvarez brings both legal and managerial credentials.
He is a former police major who led the Special Victims Bureau and supervised more than 135 officers. In private practice, he handles civil litigation and crisis management for corporate clients.
Alvarez is Castro’s second nominee for the board in recent weeks, following the Commission’s 3–1 vote last month to remove Sue Kawalerski, who had served since 2023, and the dramatic 3–2 rejection of former Commissioner Kirk Menendez.
Menendez’s failed appointment triggered a five-hour standoff, including allegations that he sought zoning changes to benefit his own property while in office. He denied the charge and delivered a fiery rebuttal, claiming intermediaries once tried to bribe him to support changing the city’s election date.
The episode fractured long-standing norms of deference over board appointments and left Castro temporarily without representation on one of the city’s most powerful advisory bodies.
Israeli flag proposal reignites debate
Mayor Vince Lago is reviving a resolution to fly the Israeli flag over City Hall on October 7, marking the anniversary of the 2023 Hamas attack. The proposal, introduced at a commission meeting earlier this month earlier this month, was deferred after strong public opposition and objections from Commissioner Richard Lara.
Vice Mayor Rhonda Anderson and Commissioner Ariel Fernandez voiced early support. Lara argued that the gesture—while well-intentioned—could set a precedent for foreign flags linked to global conflicts and risk deepening local political divisions.
Several residents echoed those concerns, urging the Commission to pursue commemorations that are more inclusive. Lago pledged to revisit the idea with broader community input.
Public comment rules under scrutiny
An ordinance on Thursday’s agenda would overhaul the city’s public comment policies, including clear time limits, restrictions on repetitive speakers, and a ban on personal attacks.
Supporters say the changes are necessary to preserve decorum and streamline meetings. Critics argue that vague language could be used to suppress dissent or chill participation.
Paid parking proposed, again, for Biltmore Hotel surface lot
Commissioners will also consider a proposal to implement paid parking in the surface lot west of the Biltmore Hotel. Sponsored by Mayor Lago, the measure would direct staff to study feasibility and timing.
Supporters say metering the lot could generate revenue and improve turnover in a high-demand area. Opponents may question the impact on hotel guests and residents, especially given the lot’s proximity to the historic property and its valet operations.
Infrastructure, grants, and civic updates
The consent agenda includes a series of policy updates and resolutions to support vulnerable residents.
Commissioners will receive status reports on several projects: the ongoing swale beautification program, the long-planned expansion of the Coral Gables Art Cinema, and Florida Department of Transportation initiatives that drew scrutiny earlier this year.
Two resolutions, sponsored by Commissioner Ariel Fernandez, would establish relief grant programs for seniors and veterans with disabilities. While funding details are not specified, both proposals direct staff to identify eligible revenue sources.
Legislative priorities open for public input
The Commission will review a draft list of Coral Gables’ 2025 legislative priorities for the upcoming Florida session, with staff seeking feedback before finalizing the city’s Tallahassee agenda.
Proposed priorities include state funding for stormwater infrastructure, protections for municipal home rule, and changes to the city’s pension plan. Last year, several projects received partial or full state funding following similar Commission approval.
