Vol 82 Miami Shores Village Newsletter May 2024

MIAMI SHORES VILLAGE NEWSLETTER

CELEBRATE NATIONAL SMALL BUSINESS DAY

This May, we kickoff our campaign to "Shop, Savor, Socialize," a fun way for locals to support their commercial neighbors. Whether you're a longtime resident or a new face in town, Miami Shores Village and the local businesses welcome you to help keep our community vibrant and thriving by shopping, dining, and socializing locally.

We invite you to be a part of “Shop, Savor, Socialize,” in The Shores and experience the joy of community connection firsthand on May 10, 2024 as we Celebrate National Small Business Day. We are shining a spotlight on the heartbeat of our community – our local businesses. From the charming ambiance of neighborhood cafes to dining experiences offering a taste of the latest culinary trends, to ice cream shops for families, and stores offering unique home décor, gifts, and fashion finds, to wine shops welcoming neighbors to socialize each business adds a special touch. These places are just some of the businesses that make our Village feel like home because you experience the joy of community connection firsthand. See you in the Shores!

Please meet Ms. Frankel the Village’s new Director of Planning, Zoning and Resiliency. Ms. Frankel grew up in Philadelphia, but has been in Miami-Dade County for the last 18 years. Ms. Frankel was most recently the Town Planner for the Town of Surfside where she worked on zoning code changes, resiliency initiatives and development applications among other actions. Ms. Frankel is a Certified Planner with the American Institute of Certified Planners and a member of the American Planning Association. She is looking forward to meeting residents and learning more about the Village.

Patrizia Bonaduce, Chair of the Miami Shores Historic Preservation Board, recently received the Dade Preservation Trust Annual Preservation Award for her untiring efforts at preserving and showcasing the Village’s beautiful architecture. Ms. Bonaduce was honored for her commitment to education and engagement with the community, which has been instrumental in fostering a deeper connection between residents and their cultural heritage. From conducting captivating tours of the Village's 1920s and Mid-Century Modern homes, working to designate historic structures as local landmarks, to meticulously researching its development by the Shoreland Company in 1924, she has ensured that the stories of Miami Shores are not lost to time but shared with pride. As a guardian of history, Ms. Bonaduce has worked with the other Board members to become a catalyst for preservation in our Village and to inspire community pride in its heritage. For her visionary leadership, Ms. Bonaduce was honored by the Dade Heritage Trust at their annual gala which took place at the historic Coral Gables Woman’s Club on April 18th.

Join us in congratulating Patrizia Bonaduce on this singular honor!

MIAMI SHORES VILLAGE WELCOMES NEW DIRECTOR JUDITH FRANKEL

DADE HERITAGE TRUST PRESERVATION AWARD PRESENTED TO PATRIZIA BONADUCE

VILLAGE HALL NEWS

ENGAGING LEADERSHIP: A COLLABORATIVE MEETING WITH MIAMIDADE COUNTY COMMISSIONER KEON HARDEMON

The Miami Shores Village Team and two concerned residents recently convened a significant meeting with our esteemed local County Commissioner Keon Hardemon to assess and address the pressing needs of our Village. This collaborative effort aimed to ensure that the Village’s voices are heard and that our shared concerns are duly acknowledged and addressed. The meeting provided a platform to come together, share insights, and to chart a course towards a brighter future for our Village. Representing various facets of governance, the Village administration and the County Commissioner brought invaluable perspectives to the table, fostering a holistic understanding of our community’s needs.

Through constructive dialogue, we delved into various aspects critical to our Village’s well-being. The two residents provided insight to areas of concern both relating to the North Miami Avenue corridor which were supported by the Village’s request for high visibility crosswalks. Pinpointing other areas of concern including speed reduction, northbound turn modifications on Biscayne Boulevard, downtown beautification and improvements, and traffic and speed reductions on several County roadways, we aim to enhance the quality of life and safety of our neighborhoods. As we reflect on the outcome of our meeting, we recognize that our journey towards progress is ongoing. With a shared vision and collaborative spirit, together, we can realize the full potential of our Village as an integral part of our County. Many thanks to Commissioner Hardemon and his team!

BROCKWAY MEMORIAL LIBRARY CELEBRATED 75TH ANNIVERSARY

On Saturday evening, April 13, 2024, Brockway Memorial Library celebrated its 75th Anniversary with a 40s-themed cocktail party which doubled as a fundraiser for future Library initiatives. With about 60 guests in attendance, highlights included a 40s-inspired menu, live jazz from the French Horn Collective and a spectacular slideshow put together by Librarian Frances Walsh, which included pictures from the Library’s earliest days to the present. Notable guests included former Library Director, Ms. Elizabeth Esper, and former Children’s Librarian, Ms. Anne Kelly, which added to the event’s warm, hometown atmosphere.

Current Director, Michelle Brown, thanked staff, both past and present, for making Brockway the special place that it is, and pointed out that community partnerships have been the backbone of the Library’s success. Wishing Brockway many more years serving MSV as the Heart of our Community!

SENATOR SHEVRIN JONES UPDATE ON LEGISLATIVE SESSION

Senator Shevrin Jones met with Mayor Burch and Village Administration to provide further insight and updates to the recent legislative session with regards to pending bills impacting our community. All agreed to meet well ahead of the next legislative session to address among other things, home rule charter, and approaches to being involved as a community by utilizing all of our elected resources and state and local levels.

PREBUDGET WORKSHOP SCHEDULED FOR MAY 7, 2024

As we approach the fiscal planning season, the Village Council will be holding a pre-budget workshop on May 7, 2024 at 5:30 pm ahead of the regularly scheduled Council meeting. This workshop is a strategic gathering to identify fiscal priorities, challenges and strategies for the upcoming budget cycle. The workshop will facilitate discussions on the most pressing issues and priorities that the budget should address. The pre-budget workshop lays the groundwork and supports collaborative efforts in shaping the Village’s fiscal responsibilities.

MAY EVENTS & HAPPENINGS

MIAMI SHORES GREEN DAY RECAP

PARKS & RECREATION DEPARTMENT

For more information on Parks and Recreation programs call: 305-758-8103

TENNIS & PICKLEBALL

BEFORE AFTER

Exciting News from Miami Shores Recreation Department

We're thrilled to announce the completion of the Tennis and Pickleball court resurfacing project! Our courts have been revamped and are now better than ever. Whether you're an avid tennis player or a pickleball enthusiast, come on down and check out the fresh new surface! Get ready to serve, volley, and score some points on our improved courts. See you there!

Contact the Parks & Recreation Department for Open Play Hours and fees.

APRIL COUNCIL ACTIONS

• Adopted an ordinance, amending the Village’s Code of Ordinances by creating regulations which shall prohibit smoking in public parks, and requiring recreation permits for certain park uses.

• Approved the re-adoption of the zoning map.

• Adopted an ordinance, approving the rezoning of an approximately .25 acre parcel of land from CF – community facilities district to R-25 one-family residential district for the property identified by Miami-Dade County Folio No. 11-3206-014-0601, as legally described.

• Approved a resolution, repealing and replacing the rules of procedures for Council Meetings with new rules of procedures.

• Ratified the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) contract.

• Overturned the Planning and Zoning Board’s decision to deny the hardship variance request for the property located at 620 NE 101st Street.

• Approved an ordinance on first reading, amending the Village’s Code of Ordinances by amending to amend certain definitions, clarify the powers and duties of the Historic Preservation Board regarding historic markers and certificates of recognition, and remove the requirement of Planning and Zoning Board review of historically designated properties.

• Approved a resolution, designating 525 NE 93rd Street as a Village historic landmark.

LIBRARY NEWS & EVENTS

For more information on Library programs call: 305-758-8107 | Registration Required.

KIDS PROGRAMS

LIVE Puppet Theatre “Spring Green”

Wednesday, May 1, 2024 | 4:00 pm

READ with Major TROY

Thursday, May 2, 2024 | 3:30 pm - 5:00 pm

FROST MUSEUM of SCIENCE

Theme of the month: Circuitry Challenge!

Thursday, May 9, 2024 | 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm

VILLAGE KIDS BOOK CLUB

Frindle by Andrew Clements

Thursday, May 23, 2024 | 4:00 pm – 5:00 pm

SATURDAY STORYTIME

The Tiny Seed by Eric Carle

May 18, 2024 | 10:30 a.m.

MEET THE AUTHOR

POOR TEDDY

The True Story of a Poodle Named After a Noodle by Lisa DePriest

May 22, 2024 | 3:30 pm

MOCA at the Library

FREE After School Art Program

TUESDAYS, May 7, 14, 21, 28, 2024 | 3:30 – 4:30 PM TEENS ages 13-17

ADULT PROGRAMS

Miami Shores 3rd Annual Historic Homes Exhibit Kickoff

Thursday, May 2, 2024 | 6:30 pm

Miami Shores Walking Tour

Saturday, May 4th, 2024 | 10:00 am

Senior Tech Connect Cybersecurity IV

Saturday, May 4th, 2024 | 10:30 am

Miami Shores Womans’Club Through the Decades

Thursday, May 9th, 2024 | 6:00 pm

Centennial Splendor Tour of 1920’s Homes

Saturday, May 11th, 2024 | 10:00 am

SFPOC “Unveiling Haiti” Discussion

Saturday, May 11, 2024 | 1:00 pm

Forum at the Libray: Historic Preservation

Thursday, May 16th, 2024 | 6:00 pm

Business Clinic with Emineo Media Friday, May 17th, 2024 | 10:00 am

Sound Bath Meditation Thursday, May 30, 2024 | 6:30 pm

PUBLIC WORKS

PRUNING FOR THE SEASON

As hurricane season approaches, homeowners often rush to trim their trees in a bid to mitigate potential damage. While tree trimming is indeed a crucial aspect of storm preparedness, it's essential to recognize that merely giving your trees a quick cut before the season isn't always sufficient. Instead, ensuring your trees are properly trimmed and maintained throughout the year is key to their resilience in the face of strong winds and heavy rains.

Trees are not only vital for the aesthetic appeal of our landscapes but also play a significant role in mitigating the impact of hurricanes and tropical storms. Properly maintained trees can help reduce wind resistance, prevent the likelihood of branches breaking off and becoming dangerous projectiles, and even provide some structural support to your property during extreme weather events.

Here are some essential tips for preparing trees for hurricane season:

• Regular Maintenance: Regular tree maintenance throughout the year is crucial. This includes pruning dead or weak branches, removing any limbs that could potentially fall on structures, and ensuring trees are healthy and structurally sound. A healthy tree is more likely to withstand the forces of a hurricane than one that is already compromised by disease or decay.

• Proper Pruning Techniques: When pruning trees, it's important to employ proper techniques. Avoid "topping" or removing large branches indiscriminately, as this can weaken the tree and make it more susceptible to wind damage. Instead, focus on selective pruning to improve the tree's structure and reduce its overall wind resistance.

• Trimming Near Structures: Pay particular attention to trees that are in close proximity to buildings, power lines, or other structures. Limbs that overhang roofs or are close to power lines should be carefully pruned to minimize the risk of damage to property or utility lines during a storm.

• Consulting a Professional: For larger trees or those in close proximity to structures, it's often wise to enlist the help of a professional arborist. An arborist can assess the health and stability of your trees, recommend appropriate pruning techniques, and identify any potential hazards that may need to be addressed.

• Maintaining a Safe Distance: When planting new trees, be mindful of their eventual size and growth habits. Planting trees too close to structures or power lines can lead to future complications and increase the risk of damage during storms. Give trees plenty of space to grow and develop their root systems properly.

• Securing Loose Items: In addition to tree maintenance, it's essential to secure loose items in your yard that could become airborne during a hurricane. Patio furniture, garden ornaments, and other outdoor decorations should be brought indoors or securely fastened to prevent them from becoming projectiles that can cause damage to trees or structures.

While trimming trees before hurricane season is undoubtedly important, it's equally essential to recognize that proper tree maintenance is a year-round endeavor. By regularly assessing the health and structure of your trees, employing proper pruning techniques, and addressing any potential hazards, you can help ensure that your trees are ready to weather the storm when hurricane season arrives. By taking proactive measures to care for your trees, you not only protect your property but also contribute to the resilience of your community in the face of extreme weather events.

COMPREHENSIVE TRANSPORTATION DIRECTORS PRESENT BEFORE MIAMIDADE COUNTY CITT BOARD

At the April 24, 2024 meeting of the Citizens Independent Transportation Trust (CITT) Board, Miami Shores Village staff showcased a robust transportation plan aimed at enhancing accessibility and convenience for residents. Leading the presentation were Parks and Recreation Director, Angela Dorney and Public Works Director, Chris Miranda. Their joint effort highlighted the Village's commitment to addressing the evolving transportation needs of its community.

During the presentation, Ms. Dorney and Mr. Miranda outlined the Village's multifaceted approach to transportation services. The emphasis was not solely on vehicular transportation but also on promoting alternative modes of travel to reduce congestion and environmental impact. One of the key highlights of the presentation was technological integration to streamline transportation services aimed at providing residents with efficient and convenient transportation solutions.

The presentation received positive feedback from the CITT Board members, who commended Miami Shores Village for its proactive approach to transportation planning. The collaborative efforts between different departments and the emphasis on innovation and community were particularly lauded. Moving forward, the Village remains committed to implementing the proposed initiatives and continuously refining its transportation strategy to meet the evolving needs of its residents.

Mike Skofstad Village Arborist

VILLAGE UPDATES

Tree Trimming Preparedness

Preparedness and mitigation are crucial elements of any effective emergency management strategy. These ideas play a factor in a community's ability to recover from any natural disaster. Miami Shores Village is dedicated to these ideas so that it will be ready for any crisis. Our community is very well known for its landscape and the beautiful trees. However, if they are not properly maintained, during a natural disaster event like a hurricane, they could be harmful and play a huge factor in power outages.

The Miami Shores Village Code of Ordinances, Section 8-23 is in place to assist with the effects of overgrown hedges, trees, and bushes that are growing close to or onto electrical lines. Property owners are responsible to maintain and trim vegetative matter so that none is situated any closer than six (6) feet to any electric or energized service line. Miami Shores Village conducts inspections of all power lines to ensure compliance with our code. In the event that the property has trees, branches, palm fronds, vines, bushes or other vegetative matter growing closer than 6 feet away or on to the power lines, a notice will be issued to trim back the vegetation.

For vegetation on power lines, residents should contact Florida Power & Light for information or visit the ISA website, https://www.treesaregood.org/findanarborist/findanarborist.

POLICE DEPARTMENT

HISTORIC HOUSE OF THE MONTH MAY 2024

Continuing our celebration of Miami Shores Centennial History, May’s Historic House of the Month showcases this house built in 1925 by the Shoreland Company. The house was designed in the Mediterranean revival style by the famous architectural firm of Kiehnel and Elliot which had a strong presence in Miami Shores and throughout South Florida. Richard Kheinel is credited with bringing the Mediterranean Revival style to South Florida with his design of El Jardin, now the Carrolton School, in Coconut Grove. Shoreland House #22, known as “The Goll House” after a prominent resident, Mr. Otto Goll, who was the second Mayor of Miami Shores Village and served from 1937 to 1939.

Drive by and admire this beautiful Miami Shores Centennial home at 261 NE 102nd Street!

RESEARCH INTELLIGENCE MANAGER STEVE WATSON: A BIG PIECE OF THE PIE

With 25 years of dedicated service to the Miami Shores Police Department, Research Intelligence Manager Steve Watson has consistently demonstrated exceptional commitment, expertise, and professionalism throughout his extensive career. He has been an invaluable asset to the MSPD, utilizing his profound understanding of crime patterns, trends, and methodologies, and keen analytical skills. Whether it’s analyzing data, collaborating with law enforcement agencies, or presenting findings to key stakeholders, he consistently goes above and beyond expectations. His analytical acumen has enhanced the effectiveness of our crime analysis, positively impacted the safety and well-being of our community, and helped to solve several complex cases. For his stellar work, he was chosen for the MSPD’s 2023 Civilian of the Year award.

In a rapidly changing landscape, Mr. Watson has continuously displayed his ability to stay ahead of emerging threats and provide timely, accurate, and actionable intelligence to department decision-makers. He has shown a commitment to continuous improvement and professional development, staying current with the latest advancements in intelligence research methodologies and technologies. His work has been pivotal in enhancing the overall effectiveness of MSPD’s intelligence operations.

Mr. Watson’s professional contributions demonstrate a strong sense of integrity and ethical conduct. His work is characterized by a steadfast commitment to upholding the highest standards of accuracy, objectivity, and confidentiality in intelligence research. Thank you, RI Manager Watson, for being such a big piece of the MSPD “pie”.

Photo Credit: Zalmy Meyer, A.IA.

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