R9AF - Clerk Adjust Candidate Presentation Times

Discussion Items - R9 {{item.number}}

COMMISSION MEMORANDUM

RECOMMENDATION

That the Mayor and City Commission grant the City Clerk Limited authority to provide accommodations for candidates with valid reasons to request adjustments to their assigned appointment times for MBTV Candidate Presentations, provided that such adjustments are made only within the days already scheduled for recording.

BACKGROUND/HISTORY

On July 2025, the City Commission adopted Resolution No. 2025-33813, which established the rules and guidelines for Candidate Presentations on MBTV for the November 2, 2025 General Election.

As written, the Resolution requires that time slots for recording be assigned in ballot order, with candidates responsible for appearing at their designated time. The City Clerk is permitted to alter recording times only in the event of unforeseen circumstances, and must then notify the Mayor and Commission by Letter to Commission (LTC).

While the Resolution provides structure and ensures equal treatment, it does not presently allow flexibility for candidates who may have unavoidable professional or personal conflicts at their assigned time. Absent such flexibility, a candidate with a legitimate conflict risks forfeiting their opportunity to participate, despite being available on the designated recording day.

To preserve fairness while accommodating legitimate conflicts, I request that the Commission authorize the City Clerk to: 1. Accept requests from candidates with valid reasons for adjusting their assigned appointment times. 2. Allow such adjustments strictly within the same recording day(s) already scheduled by Resolution. 3. Ensure that any accommodations are documented for transparency, and that the adjustments do not disrupt the overall recording process.

ANALYSIS

FISCAL IMPACT STATEMENT

NA

Does this Ordinance require a Business Impact Estimate? (FOR ORDINANCES ONLY)

If applicable, the Business Impact Estimate (BIE) was published on: See BIE at: https://www.miamibeachfl.gov/city-hall/city-clerk/meeting-notices/

FINANCIAL INFORMATION

CONCLUSION

Applicable Area

Citywide

Was this Agenda Item initially requested by a lobbyist which, as defined in Code Sec. 2-481, includes a principal engaged in lobbying? No

If so, specify the name of lobbyist(s) and principal(s):

Department

Office of Commissioner Kristen Rosen Gonzalez

Sponsor(s)

Commissioner Kristen Rosen Gonzalez

Co-sponsor(s)

Condensed Title

Disc/Act: Authorize City Clerk to Adjust MBTV Candidate Presentation Scheduling for Valid Conflicts. (KRG)

Previous Action (For City Clerk Use Only)