COMMISSIONER KEON HARDEMON ALLOCATES FUNDING FOR NEW ENTRYWAY PROJECT
In an exciting development for our community, County Commissioner Keon Hardemon has generously sponsored the replacement of the entryway wall at NW 95th Street from NW 2nd to NW 3rd Avenue. This initiative, driven by a commitment to enhance the aesthetic appeal and functionality of our public spaces, marks a significant investment of $445,305.73. The current entryway wall, which has served our community for decades, will be replaced with a modern, visually appealing structure designed to welcome all who pass by. This project aims to create a more inviting and safe environment, reflecting the ongoing efforts to maintain and beautify our public infrastructure and entry features.
Commissioner Hardemon expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating, "Investing in our community's infrastructure is crucial. This new entryway project will not only enhance the visual appeal of the area but also provide a sense of pride for our Miami Shores residents." The replacement wall will feature durable materials and a design that complements the surrounding architecture. Over decades, the wall has deteriorated, becoming an eye sore in the community.
Construction is scheduled to begin on August 19, 2024. During this period, there may be temporary disruptions to pedestrian and vehicular traffic in the vicinity. The project team is committed to minimizing any inconvenience and ensuring that the construction process proceeds smoothly and efficiently. Community members are encouraged to stay informed about the progress of the project through regular updates that will be posted on the Miami Shores Village website and social media channels. The sponsorship of this project by County Commissioner Hardemon highlights his dedication to improving the quality of life in our community. His leadership and vision are instrumental in driving initiatives that promote growth, safety, and community pride.
As we look forward to the completion of the new entryway wall, we extend our heartfelt thanks to Commissioner Hardemon for his support and commitment. This project is a testament to what can be achieved when community leaders and residents come together with a shared goal of enhancing our public spaces.
Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting project, and we look forward to celebrating the unveiling of our new entryway wall with all of you soon!
CR DISTRICT WORKSHOP 9.12.24
Please join us on the evening of September 12, 2024 at a public workshop to discuss the draft proposed Community Residential (CR) Zoning District Regulations.
Pursuant to Ordinance No. 2023-09, the Village amended its Comprehensive Plan Future Land Use Element and Future Land Use Map, including designating certain parcels of land as CR District (see yellow area in the below map).
In response to the Comprehensive Plan Amendment, the Village Zoning Code must be amended to create regulations that establish the CR zoning district to provide a regulatory framework that permits residential development in a manner consistent with the vision set forth in the Comprehensive Plan.
Please engage in this process. We want to hear from you!
VILLAGE HALL NEWS
MSV BOARDS & COMMITTEES VACANCIES
Want to get involved in your community? Apply to serve on a Village board/committee.
Below is a list of upcoming vacancies. For more information regarding specific boards and committees, you may contact the Village Clerk's Office at rodriguezy@msvfl.gov.
• Ad Hoc Communications Committee
• Ad Hoc Traffic Committee
• Code Enforcement Board
• Country Club Advisory Board
• Education Advisory Board
• Fine Arts Commission
• Historic Preservation Board
• Recreation Advisory Committee
• Personnel Appeals Board
• Planning and Zoning Board
• Sustainability & Resiliency Committee
To apply, please visit: https://miamishoresvillage.formstack.com /forms/board_application2024_2025
FINANCE RECEIVES GFOA TRIPLE CROWN AWARD
Miami Shores Village was once again recognized with the Triple Crown Award for FY 2022 from the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA). This organization advances excellence in government finance by providing best practices, professional development, resources and practical research for more than 23, 000 finance officers and the communities they serve.
GFOA’s Triple Crown Award recognizes governments who have received their Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting, the Popular Annual Financial Reporting Award, and the Distinguished Budget Presentation Award. Miami Shores Village is one of only 356 GFOA Triple Crown Award winners for FY 2022. This is a testament to the government's commitment to producing annual reports that evidence the spirit of full disclosure and transparency.
BROCKWAY LIBRARY HOSTS FOURTH ANNUAL SCHOLASTIC BOOK FAIR
Brockway Memorial Library will host their Fourth Annual Scholastic Book Fair on August 6 10, 2024! In 2021, local volunteer and Miami Shores resident Liangy Calli started the First Annual Scholastic Book Fair at Brockway Library to raise funds for the Library and involve teen volunteers from the Doctor’s Charter School Big Brothers and Big Sisters Organization. The teen volunteers who help at the book fair earn community services hours for their participation.After that first year, the Brockway Library Youth Services Department continues to host the Annual Scholastic Book Fair at the end of the summer before the start of school. Now in its fourth year, Brockway Library’s Scholastic Book Fair is a tremendous success in terms of involving the community and fundraising!
The Library earns Scholastic Dollars and uses them to buy books, educational resources, furniture, AV equipment, and other great merchandise. To date purchases have included bookcases, shelves with bins, an AV cart, a foldable table, a Hamilton Buhl® Amp-Up™ voice amplifier with wireless microphone, and an AudioMVP™ 6-Station Bluetooth®/CD/FM Listening Center with a mobile book bin. We hope you will save the dates and support Brockway Memorial Library’s Annual Scholastic Book Fair this summer!
AUGUST EVENTS & HAPPENINGS
• Adopted a charitable donation and solicitation policy.
• Held a Budget Workshop for fiscal year 2025.
• Adopted an ordinance, amending Appendix A (zoning code) to provide for additions to the zoning code concerning Maximum Lot Coverage, Maximum Impervious Area, Floor Area Ratio and additional regulations to building massing including setback regulations and step-backs for the second floor.
• Approved a resolution, approving the agreement with Weiss Serota Helfman Cole + Bierman, P.L. for legal services.
• Approved a Florida Local Agency Program ("LAP") Agreement FM# 441638-1-58-01/ 68-01 with the State Of Florida Department Of Transportation ("FDOT"), providing for reimbursement to the Village in an amount not to exceed $468,833 for the construction and construction and engineering inspection (CEI) services required for the multimodal mobility improvements along NE 96th street from NE 2nd avenue to NE 12th avenue and the intersection of NE 96th street and Biscayne Blvd.
• Approved a resolution, determining the proposed millage rate, and the date, time and place for the first and second public hearings as required by law.
• Directed the Village Manager to bring forth the County’s landscape irrigation ordinance for Council consideration.
PARKS & RECREATION DEPARTMENT
JULY EVENTS RECAP
Rise and Ride: Community Bike Ride
The Miami Shores Village Community Bike Ride, held on June 29, brought together cycling enthusiasts of all ages and skill levels. Families pedaled alongside with one another, sharing laughs and encouragement throughout Miami Shores. The event was safely escorted by the Miami Shores Police Department, who ensured a smooth and secure ride for everyone involved.
July Fourth Celebration
Miami Shores residents celebrated Independence Day. The festivities kicked off at the Aquatic Center, where families and friends gathered to enjoy the sun, splash in the pools, and partake in various water activities including a Mermaid Meet and Greet Show. As the sun began to set residents gathered in their favorite viewing spots ready to witness the sky light up in a dazzling display of colors for our annual Firework Show.
Vice Mayor Valinsky is quoted as saying “This was one of the best fireworks shows ever.”
The summer is almost over, which means it's time to register for many fun and exciting programs being offered this Fall at the Miami Shores Parks and Recreation Department. Whether you're looking to learn, play, or simply connect with your community, our lineup of programs promises something for everyone. Programs include.
Dance Class: Ready to move to the rhythm? Get excited for our new dance classes provided by Mady’s Dance Factory! Let's dance our way into these exciting new offerings.
• Youth Ballet and Hip Hop classes designed to inspire and engage young dancers, helping them develop grace, technique, and confidence.
• Beginner Salsa classes: For adults looking to learn a new skill, our Beginner Salsa classes are the perfect way to have fun and get fit.
• Toddler and Me Dance class: This Program offers a joyful bonding experience through movement and music.
Ready, Steady, Grow!: Toddlers will learn critical thinking, explore creative expression, develop cooperation skills and socialize in a group setting.
Little Cleats: Aspiring athletes will explore motor skill in football, soccer and t-ball through interactive games and play
Water Fitness Class: Water aerobics classes using resistance training.
Learn to Swim: The Aquatic Center offers all levels of swim instructions.
Tennis Development: Instruction for all levels; strokes, drills, and games!
After School Care Program: The After Care Program is available to Miami Shores Residents in Kindergarten - 5th grade. The After Care Program offers transportation from MS Elementary, MS Presbyterian, MS Community Church School & St. Rose of Lima to the Field House. Program provides supervised homework help, organized play, and snack time. SPACE IS LIMITED! For more Information, contact the Field House at 305.758-6701 or athletics@msvfl.gov
LIBRARY NEWS & EVENTS
For more information on Library programs call: 305-758-8107 | Registration Required.
KIDS PROGRAMS
2024 SUMMER READING PROGRAM
June 13th - August 1st | 2:00 pm
PELICAN HARBOR SEABIRD STATION!
Thursday, August 1st | 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
SCHOLASTIC BOOK FAIR
Kindergarten - 8th Grade | August 6th-10th
POLICE DEPARTMENT
ARRESTED
ADULT PROGRAMS
RESTORATIVE SOUND BATH MEDITATION
Thursday, August 10 | 6:30pm
Presentend by History Miami Museum Resident, Dr. Paul George
MSPD NABS FUGITIVE CON ARTIST
On May 30th, 2024, the Miami Shores Police Department received a report of a theft at a local golf course. The stolen items, including a Rolex watch, a firearm, and personal identification documents were taken from the victim’s golf cart during play. Utilizing surveillance footage and license plate reader technology, our investigators tracked the vehicle associated with the theft to 1701 South Bayshore Drive. On June 4th, MSPD, in coordination with the City of Miami Police Department, apprehended the suspect, Ivan Urquiza, who was using the alias “Philip Vincent.” He is wanted in multiple states for similar offenses and has been in hiding since 2013.
Urquiza was found in possession of the stolen property, linking him to the May 30th incident. Our investigation revealed that he uses the website sugardaddy.com to deceive young women into thinking he is affluent, while exploiting them. Known to frequent golf courses daily, he travels across the country targeting such venues for his criminal activities.MSPD’s arrest not only connected Urquiza to another offense in Miami Shores on January 15th, 2024, but at least a dozen other law enforcement agencies were able to charge him with offenses and close their open cases.
We recognize and commend the incredible efforts and investigative process of MSPD Sgt. Koop, Ofc. Kubicek, and Ofc. Greig in solving these cases!
K9 BOSCO RETIRES
After more than 7 years of faithful service with the Miami Shores Police Department, K-9 Bosco’s final tour of duty will be August 1st, 2024. He will then retire at home with his human partner, Sergeant Abner Vargas, and family. An 11-year-old Belgian Malinois, from Holland, his favorite things are tennis balls and being by his partner’s side.
K-9 Bosco has been an invaluable member or our department, contributing to successful perimeters and evidence recovery. Throughout his career, Bosco was able to apprehend subjects and also recovered several firearms, contributing significantly to the safety of the Miami Shores community. Bosco also played a vital role in strengthening the bond between our police department and the community we serve. Bosco’s presence at community events and school visits has helped to bridge the gap, fostering trust and mutual respect within the community.
K-9 Bosco is an essential part of our law enforcement family in Miami Shores Village and he will be missed. Please join us in extending our heartfelt thanks and well wishes to K-9 Bosco and Sergeant Abner Vargas during this new transition.
PUBLIC WORKS
COMMENCEMENT OF ODELL MANORS BUFFER WALL PROJECT
We are excited to announce the commencement of the Buffer Wall replacement project, a key initiative aimed at enhancing the safety and aesthetics of our community. This project will focus on the areas along NW 95th Street, from NW 2nd Avenue to NW 3rd Avenue, and along NW 3rd Avenue, from NW 95th Street to the alley south of NW 93rd Street.
The Buffer Wall replacement is a crucial project for our community. The existing structures have served us well over the years but have now reached a point where replacement is necessary to ensure the continued safety and security of our residents. This project will not only provide a more robust barrier to enhance privacy and noise reduction but will also contribute to the overall beautification of the neighborhood, creating a more pleasant environment for all.
The enhanced Buffer Wall will offer improved structural integrity, better resistance to weather conditions, and a modern design that complements the aesthetic of Miami Shores Village.
ENSURING CLEAR DRAINS IN VILLAGE RIGHTOFWAY: A RESIDENT'S RESPONSIBILITY TO PREVENT FLOODING
Proper drainage is vital for any community, particularly in areas prone to heavy rainfall. One of the key components of effective drainage systems is the network of drains situated within the village right-of-way. It is the responsibility of residents to ensure these drains are free of leaves and other debris, preventing flooding and maintaining the health and safety of the community.
Understanding Village Right-of-Way Drains:
Drains in the village right-of-way are designed to manage storm water runoff, directing it away from streets, properties, and public spaces. These drains are essential for preventing water accumulation that can lead to flooding, property damage, and potential hazards for residents and vehicles.
The Impact of Clogged Drains:
1. Flooding: When drains are clogged with leaves, dirt, and debris, water cannot flow freely. This leads to water pooling on streets and properties, increasing the risk of flooding.
2. Property Damage: Excessive water buildup can cause significant damage to homes, landscaping, and infrastructure. Basements can flood, foundations can weaken, and gardens can be destroyed.
3. Health and Safety Hazards: Stagnant water can become a breeding ground for mosquitoes and other pests, posing health risks. Additionally, flooded streets create hazardous driving conditions, increasing the likelihood of accidents.
Residents' Responsibility:
As residents, it is crucial to actively participate in maintaining the village right-of-way drains. Here’s how you can help:
We are deeply grateful to Miami-Dade County Commissioner Keon Hardemon for his unwavering support and assistance in making this project a reality. RESIDENTS &
A community meeting was held on July 29, 2024 to provide the Odell Manor residents with a first look, construction information and timeline.
1. Regular Leaf Removal: Especially during the fall and rainy seasons, regularly rake and remove leaves from your property and the surrounding area. Ensure that leaves are not swept into the drains.
2. Debris Clearing: Clear any debris, such as branches, trash, and dirt, from the drain grates. This should be done routinely and especially before expected heavy rainfall.
3. Proper Disposal: Dispose of yard waste and leaves properly, using compost bins or designated yard waste disposal services. Avoid dumping any waste into the streets or drains.
Best Practices for Drain Maintenance:
1. Regular Inspections: Periodically inspect the drains near your property to ensure they are clear and functioning correctly.
2. Report Issues: If you notice a severely clogged drain or potential blockage, report it to your local public works department for prompt attention.
3. Education: Stay informed about your village’s regulations and guidelines regarding drain maintenance. Educate yourself and others about the importance of clear drains and the role they play in preventing flooding.
Conclusion:
Maintaining clear drains in the village right-of-way is a shared responsibility that significantly impacts the community's well-being. By ensuring drains are free of leaves and other debris, residents can help prevent flooding, protect property, and promote a safer, healthier environment. Active participation and community cooperation are key to effective storm water management and the overall resilience of our neighborhoods.
VILLAGE UPDATES
NEIGHBORHOOD SERVICES
THE HIDDEN DANGER:
Illegal Discharge from Residential Properties into Village Storm Drains
Across the Village, storm drains play a crucial role in managing rainwater and preventing flooding. These networks of pipes and channels are designed to carry away excess water during storms. However, a growing concern is the illegal discharge of contaminants from residential properties into these storm drains, posing significant environmental and public health risks.
Understanding Storm Drains
Storm drains are intended solely for rainwater and natural runoff. They are not equipped to handle pollutants, chemicals, or waste products. When harmful substances enter these systems, they bypass treatment processes and flow directly into natural water bodies, causing contamination.
Common Illegal Discharges
Illegal discharges can take various forms, including: Pool Water, Household Chemicals, Automotive Fluids, Yard Waste, and Septic Tank Overflow.
Environmental Impact
The consequences of illegal discharges are far-reaching:
• Water Pollution: Contaminants in stormwater can lead to the degradation of Biscayne Bay and oceans, harming aquatic life and ecosystems.
• Human Health Risks: Polluted water sources can carry pathogens and toxic substances, posing serious health risks to communities.
• Economic Costs: Cleanup and remediation efforts are expensive, placing a financial burden on local governments and taxpayers.
The Miami Shores Village Code Section 20-1 (e) regulates illegal discharges to prevent any impact to our local environment. Violators can face hefty fines and legal action. Public awareness is crucial in mitigating this issue. Illegal discharge from residential properties into Village storm drains is a pressing issue that requires collective action. By understanding the impact and taking proactive steps, we can protect our water resources and ensure a healthier environment for future generations. It’s a shared responsibility that begins at home, with each of us making a conscious effort to keep our storm drains clean and pollutant-free.
WHAT TO DO IN CASE OF POTENTIAL FLOODING?
HISTORIC HOUSE OF THE MONTH AUGUST 2024
Continuing our celebration of Miami Shores centennial history, August’s historic house of the month showcases this house built in 1926 by the Shoreland Company. There are no records indicating who the Architect that designed this Mediterranean revival style villa was, but it beautifully showcases the splendor of Miami Shores - America’s Mediterranean. Named “The Sydow House” for its first resident, Mr. J. A. Sydow, Vice President of Godard & Sydow, one of the construction companies that were selected by the Shoreland Company to develop Miami Shores. The property was registered as a National Historic place in 1988 and designated a local Historic Landmark in 1987.
Drive by and admire this beautiful Miami Shores Centennial home at 389 NE 99th St!
Miami Shores Village has some areas that may experience potential flooding due to an approaching storm. There are certain steps that can be taken to assist with mitigating loss and preserving safety.
Minimize your potential losses from flooding by taking the following steps:
• Elevate and anchor your critical utilities, including electrical panels, wiring, propane tanks, appliances, sockets, and heating systems.
• Make sure that you clear any debris from gutters and downspouts to avoid an accumulation of water. Our crews will work on this periodically, but residents can assist by making sure to keep our drains clean by limiting the amount of loose debris placed on the right of way for pick up.
• If an inclement weather condition is predicted or approaching that includes flooding, move furniture and valuables to a safe place, such as an attic or the highest floor of your home.
When a flood is imminent or occurring, the first priority should be the physical safety of you, your loved ones, and your pets. Stay alert by monitoring the local news and weather reports and sign up for emergency alerts. Have a communication plan ready in the event of a power outage. You can visit our website at https://www.msvfl.gov or follow us on social media platforms for updates.
