Building Permits
PMGA designed analyses to evaluate the planning and building permit fees to determine the appropriate level for these levies. The basis for this analysis was an evaluation based on fees in surrounding communities as well as the actual cost to deliver the service. The analysis identified fees at improper levels (either too high or too low), and made recommendations for fee adjustments. These analyses also consider the review of industry best practicesto determine current procedures that produce the most efficient delivery of service. One of the most recent changes was a shift from a fixed fee for each type of permit to a percentage of construction cost, which reduced the permit review time and made the levy of the fee more consistent.
Building permit analyses projects include:
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- Fort Lauderdale, FL (2)
- North Lauderdale, FL
- Collier County, FL
- Broward County, FL
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- Delray Beach, FL
- Oakland Park, FL
- Coral Springs, FL
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Public Benefit Assessments
PMGA developed an equitable process to assess property owners for the costs associated with the provision of a public benefit. The assessment is based on the impact of each property and the benefits received.Projects include extension of water services, stormwater programs, beach renourishment and canal and waterway access.
User Fees
PMGA provides fiscal analysis of the application of user fees for municipal services. These evaluations include the identification of the operating and maintenanceas well as debt service costs of the system. Additional considerations are any reserve requirements based on previous debt. The fee development insures that all customers are charged a fee commensurate with the demand on the system. Fees have included utility (water and wastewater), stormwater and park and recreation services.
Analysis of Bahia Mar Lease and Development Opportunities, Fort Lauderdale, Florida
The goals of the projectis to provide (1) a comparative analysis of current industry standards and the existing lease for the Bahia Mar site, (2) an analysis of the existing lease to determine what revenues and public benefits the city will receive throughout the remainder of the lease (year 2062), (3) an analysis of redevelopment, lease and public use opportunities/options for the current site that would yield the highest and best use while considering public benefits such as the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show and (4) a suggested Phasing Plan for redevelopment of the site to maximize value to the city. This analysis plan will include public purpose and revenue.
Analysis of Funding Options, Miami-Dade MPO
PMGA researched the funding sources and level of commitment for existing programs for the Miami-Dade MPO. The analysis was used to identify sources for pedestrian and bikeway corridors throughout the county. The program included the development of alternatives sources and combination of funds to secure expanded funding options. PMGA provided a report outlining the potential funding from various sources and an analysis of the methods to leverage funding through use of recreation and transportation grants as well as The People’s Transportation Trust funds. PMGA proposed the establishment of a consortium of municipalities to further leverage funding.