The Village has installed new marquee signs at Doctors Charter School and the median at NE 96th Street and NE 4th Avenue, bringing both style and functionality to these locations. These modern signs not only enhance visual appeal but also serve as valuable communication tools for residents and students alike.
The marquee at Doctors Charter School will showcase important school events and messages from the Village, keeping families informed. Meanwhile, the sign at NE 96th Street will provide updates on recreational programs and community announcements, ensuring residents stay engaged with local happenings.
These improvements reflect the Village’s commitment to clear and effective communication, making vital information more accessible to the community. Whether highlighting school activities or upcoming events, the new marquee signs will help keep everyone informed and connected.
NOTICE OF ELECTION
ELECTION NEWS
Notice is hereby given that an election will be held on Tuesday, April 8, 2025, for the purpose of electing three (3) Councilmembers.
Key Deadlines:
• Voter Registration Deadline: To be eligible to vote in this election, individuals must register by Monday, March 10, 2025.
• Vote-by-Mail Requests: Requests for a vote-by-mail ballot must be submitted no later than 5:00 PM on Friday, March 27, 2025.
• Early Voting Date: Saturday, April 5, 2025 from 7am-7pm (Lawton McCall Community Center).
For additional information, including candidate qualifications, please contact the Office of the Village Clerk at 305-762-4870 or rodriguezy@msvfl.gov.
VILLAGE HALL NEWS
HONORING A VILLAGE TREASURE: HAPPY 101ST BIRTHDAY, JOAN MUELLER!
The Miami Shores Police Department had the privilege of celebrating Joan Mueller’s 101st birthday! A cherished Village resident for over 30 years, Joan’s remarkable life includes her dedicated service in the U.S. Navy’s WAVES branch during World War II, where she worked as a parachute rigger.
We are honored to recognize Joan’s service and legacy, and we extend our heartfelt gratitude for her contributions to our country and community. Happy birthday, Joan—we hope your special day was filled with joy and love!
A HEARTFELT THANK YOU FROM THE PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT
For over a decade, Nick and Linda, longtime residents of Miami Shores Village, have made Valentine’s Day a truly special occasion for the Public Works team. Every February 14, without fail, they generously provide a delicious breakfast for the department’s employees, transforming an ordinary workday into a celebration of appreciation.
This thoughtful tradition has become a cherished symbol of community spirit. More than just a meal, it is a heartfelt acknowledgment of the team’s hard work and dedication to keeping Miami Shores Village clean, beautiful, and well-maintained. Their kindness serves as a reminder that these efforts do not go unnoticed.
The employees of Public Works deeply appreciate this annual act of generosity, which brings both encouragement and motivation. Nick and Linda’s unwavering support exemplifies the strong community values that make Miami Shores Village such a special place to call home.
On behalf of the entire department—thank you, Nick and Linda!
DAISY TROOP VISITS MIAMI SHORES VILLAGE HALL TO EARN DEMOCRACY BADGE
Miami Shores Village Hall welcomed a special group of visitors as a local Daisy Troop met with Vice Mayor Jesse Valinsky and the Village Manager, Esmond K. Scott to learn about local government and earn their Democracy Badge. The young scouts had the unique opportunity to ask questions, explore the council chambers, and understand how decisions are made in their community. A highlight of the visit was a special appearance by Major Troy, the beloved companion of the Miami Shores Police Department, who provided comfort and joy to the troop. This hands-on experience inspired the young girls to become engaged citizens and future leaders in their community.
MARCH EVENTS & HAPPENINGS
4pm
Estates Septic to Sewer Conversion Community Meeting 6:30pm
Read with Major Troy 3:30pm OSHER Ottoman Empire program 1:30 pm
VILLAGE UPDATES
HISTORIC HOUSE OF THE MONTH MARCH 2025
The Historic Preservation Board is continuing its Historic House of the Month program in 2025. The focus for this year will be on the beautiful Village homes of the 1930’s and 1940’s. Prevalent architectural styles during those decades were Art Deco, Streamline Moderne, Southern Colonial, and Tudor Revival. The house of the month for March is the “Renuart House” which was built in 1935 for Lucien Renuart, a member of a prominent Dade County business family which owned the first industrial enterprise in Miami Shores, Renuart Lumber Company. Renuart was a founding Member of the Board of Brockway Memorial Library. The home is one of several Tudor Revival style homes built during the 1930s in the Village Beautiful. The prominent architect, Henry Van Der Lyn, served for 6 years on the Miami Shores Planning and Zoning Board. Drive by and admire this beautiful Miami Shores Centennial home at 501 NE 94th St!
NEIGHBORHOOD SERVICES
POLITICAL SIGN GUIDELINES
STAY COMPLIANT & RESPECTFUL
With election season approaching, it is essential to follow the Miami Shores Village political sign regulations outlined in Section 504.2 of the Code of Ordinances to keep our community safe and organized.
Placement Rules:
• No signs on public property, utility poles, traffic devices, or vacant lots.
• Permission is required to place signs on private property you don’t own.
Size & Location:
• Max sign size: 4.5 sq. ft.; total area limit: 27 sq. ft. (about six signs).
• Signs must be 5 ft. from easements and 10 ft. from edge of pavement.
• Signs should not obstruct traffic flow or present a hazard.
• No freestanding or portable signs unless attached to vehicles.
Visit www.msvfl.gov or email NeighborhoodServices@msvfl.gov for details. Let’s keep our community safe and respectful this election season.
BUILDING DEPARTMENT
HOME IMPROVEMENT: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Before starting the design process for your construction or renovation project, it is essential to do your research. Many property owners invest significant time and money into project planning without first determining whether their plans comply with local regulations. To avoid unnecessary delays and expenses, we strongly encourage you to contact your local Building and Zoning Department early in the process. They can provide critical information to help you navigate zoning laws, building codes, and other key requirements.
If your property is located within a designated flood hazard area, additional building regulations may apply. For example, if the cost of your planned improvements exceeds 50% of your building’s market value (excluding land and other site improvements) and the structure does not meet current flood elevation requirements, you may be required to bring the building into compliance. In some cases, this could mean demolishing the existing structure and rebuilding to meet modern flood safety standards. Decisions regarding compliance are determined by local government authorities. While there is an option to appeal, overturning a determination can be a complex and costly process, often involving legal fees and potential project delays. To ensure a smooth and cost-effective renovation, we recommend consulting with the appropriate local agencies before finalizing your plans. For more information, please reach out to Miami Shores Building and Zoning Department.
POLICE DEPARTMENT
MULTIAGENCY TRAFFIC ENFORCEMENT DETAIL
Your MSPD hosted a multiagency Traffic Enforcement Detail on January 31st, 2024. The joint traffic task force consisted of multiple agencies: Miami Shores, Miami Springs, North Bay Village, Miami Gardens, Bal Harbour, South Miami, Biscayne Park, Golden Beach, Medley, and Miami-Dade Schools and took place in various locations throughout Miami Shores Village. It was a great success and, with the support of the partnering agencies, a total of 204 traffic citations were issued and 32 traffic warnings given. Moreover, the detail served as an opportunity to engage and educate the public regarding the importance of traffic safety.
Photo Credit:
Zalmy Meyer, A.IA.
PARKS & RECREATION DEPARTMENT
For more information on Parks and Recreation programs call: 305-758-8103
PARKS & RECS | FEBRUARY EVENTS RECAP
OLDER ADULT PROGRAMMING
Our Active Adults programming provides activities for our residents aged 55+.
FINE ARTS COMMISSION PAPALOKO CONCERT
What an unforgettable night with Jude “Papaloko” & Loray Mistik! On February 21, the energy was electric as the band transported us to the heart of Haiti with their powerful blend of Vodou traditions, West African rhythms, rock, blues, and hip-hop. Their music told stories of heritage, resilience, and spirit, captivating the audience with every beat. Thank you to everyone who joined us for this unforgettable celebration of music, dance, and community
MOVIE NIGHT FEATURING MOANA 2
March 7, 2025 | 5:30pm | Miami Shores Aquatic Center
Join us on for Movie Night featuring the highly anticipated Moana 2. The festivities kick off at 5:30 PM with exciting pre-movie activities; then, as the sun sets, settle in for the movie, which begins at 6:30 PM. Food trucks will be on-site, and your $15 admission includes popcorn and drinks.
SILVER SNEAKERS @ COMMUNITY CENTER
Mon., Wed., & Fri | 10:45 am – 11:30 am
Resident Fee: $5.00/class
JAZZERCISE @ COMMUNITY CENTER
Mon., Tues., Thurs., Fri. | 7:30am – 8:30 am Sat. | 9:00 am – 10:00 am
Resident Fee: $40. /month
BELLY DANCE @ COMMUNITY CENTER
Sat. (Open Level) | 10:30 am – 11:30 am Thurs. (Open Level) | 7:30 am – 8:30 pm
Resident Fee: $9.00/class
BRIDGE @ COMMUNITY CENTER
Tues. | 12pm – 2:30 pm
Resident Fee: $10. /day
YOGA MIND & BODY @ COMMUNITY CENTER
Tues. & Thurs. | 8:45 am – 9:45 am Sat. | 9:30 am – 10:30 am
Resident Fee: $15. /class
H2O CARDIO CLASS @ AQUATIC CENTER
Mon., Wed., & Fri | 7am – 8am | 9am – 10am
Resident Fee: $11.00/class
OSHER LIFELONG LEARNING
Tuesdays | 10:30 – Noon
Domestic & Foreign event lecture
For More information, contact Osher
305-919-5900 | abreume@fiu.edu
OLLI DAY TRIP
Sunday March 23, 2025 | 12:30pm – 6:00pm
Curtain Call with John Dalton: Exploring Stuart Meltzer's Fiddler on the Roof (Matinee performance at the Arsht)
For More information, contact Osher 305-919-5900 | abreume@fiu.edu
BALANCE YOUR MIDLIFE WORKSHOP
March 15 | 2:00pm – 4:00pm | Miami Shores Community Center
The Vitamin M Practice - Strength Training + Yoga Practice
FULL MOON MEDITATION
March 14, 2025 | 7:30pm – 8:30pm | Bayfront Park
Bring a yoga mat, towel or blanket, wear comfortable clothing, and let the moonlight guide you to inner tranquility.
RICKY VALIDO AND THE HIALEAH HILLBILLIES: A NIGHT OF COUNTRY MUSIC, AND FOOD TRUCKS
March 21, 2025 | 7:00pm – 9:00pm | Athletic Fields at 9825 Park Drive
The Miami Shores Fine Arts Commission is proud to present a special evening with Ricky Valido, one of country music’s most innovative artists, on the . This exciting event, set under the stars, promises to be an unforgettable night filled with live country music, and local food trucks.
MIAMI SHORES SPRING BREAK CAMP
March 24 – 28 | 8:30am – 5:00pm
Don't let the school break pass by without giving your child the opportunity to experience the joy of Spring Camp.
WILD WATERS SPRING BREAK
March 24, 26 & 28 | 12:00pm – 3:00pm
Enjoy a fun filled day at the Aquatic Center; Wild Waters will be reopen during spring break.
FITNESS IN THE PARK
1st and 3rd Saturday | 9:00am | Constitution Park
Get moving with our 5-month fitness series through May 2025. These full-body workouts, led by certified fitness trainer Jacob Hasbrouck, are perfect for teens and adults looking to stay active. Fitness Series sponsored by The Miami Shores Community Alliance.
LIFEGUARD CERTIFICATION COURSE
Wed & Thurs from April 16th – May 8th | 5:00p.m. – 9:00p.m.
The Aquatic Center is offering American Red Cross Lifeguard Certification Course. Must be a minimum 15 years of age. The course will include First Aid, CPR/PR, Lifeguarding and AED instruction. To enroll you must pass a swim test. For more information, contact the Aquatics Center at 305.795.2241.
LIBRARY NEWS & EVENTS
For more information on Library programs call: 305-758-8107 | Registration Required.
FEBRUARY LIBRARY RECAP
MIAMI & WWII RECAP
Dr. Paul George, the historian in residence at History Miami, gave a presentation on Miami and WWII at Brockway Memorial Library on 2/13. He explained how the Army Air Force troops were stationed all throughout the Miami area, but particularly in Miami Beach. He showed slides of the troops doing training exercises on the beach and noted that after the war a lot of the men and women stationed in South Florida got, “sand in their shoes”, and stayed in the greater Miami area. He explained that when the war was declared over about 30,000 people gathered in downtown Flagler Street to celebrate.
STORYWALK® STORYTIME IN THE PARK
On Saturday February 15, 2025, families came to Optimist Park to join Brockway Memorial Library in a read aloud, walking tour and snack! Ms. Holsing's lesson about seasons and the reading of "Sing A Season Song" by Jane Yolen was engaging and educational for the children. The walking tour where the kids read the story to their parents added a wonderful interactive element. The StoryWalk® Project was created by Anne Ferguson of Montpelier, VT, and developed in collaboration with the Kellogg-Hubbard Library. StoryWalk® is a registered service mark owned by Ms. Ferguson. The Miami Shores Village StoryWalk® Project was made possible by a grant from the Florida League of Mayors.
KIDS PROGRAMS
LIVE PUPPET SHOW
Wednesday, March 5 | 4pm
READ WITH MAJOR TROY
Thursday, March 6 | 3:30pm
FROST MUSEUM OF SCIENCE
Thursday, March 13 | 4pm
SATURDAY STORYTIME
Saturday, March 15 | 10:30am
VILLAGE KIDS BOOK CLUB
Thursday, March 20 | 4pm
MOCA AT THE LIBRARY
Tuesdays Until May 27 | 3:30pm
ADULT PROGRAMS
SENIOR TECH CONNECT
Saturday, March 1 | 10:30am
ESTATE PLANNING WORKSHOP
Saturday, March 8 | 10:30am
#1 REDUCING STORMWATER WORKSHOP
Monday, March 10 | 6pm
REGENERATIVE MEDICINE
Tuesday, March 18 | 6pm
HISTORY OF THE MICCOSUKEE TRIBE
Saturday, March 22 | 10:30am
OSHER PROGRAM
Friday, March 28 | 6:00pm
PUBLIC WORKS
HANGING SWINGS, PLANTS, OR OBJECTS IN TREES IN THE RIGHT OF WAY: A SAFETY HAZARD
While trees in public spaces and along roadsides provide beauty and shade, hanging swings, plants, or other objects from these trees in the right of way is both unsafe and against regulations. The right of way is the portion of land designated for public use, such as roads, sidewalks, and utility areas, and ensuring it remains clear is essential for safety and accessibility.
One major concern is the risk of injury. Swings, ropes, or hammocks attached to trees in these areas can fail due to weakened branches, leading to falls and potential harm. Likewise, hanging decorations, planters, or other objects can become hazards in storms or strong winds, potentially falling onto pedestrians, cyclists, or vehicles. Additionally, hanging items from trees can damage their structural integrity. Excess weight can stress branches, causing them to crack or break, and nails, screws, or ropes wrapped around trunks can restrict growth and lead to disease or decay.
From a legal standpoint, most municipalities prohibit placing personal property in the right of way. This ensures that sidewalks and roads remain free from obstructions that could impede traffic, emergency responders, or maintenance crews. For those looking to beautify their outdoor spaces, it is best to keep swings, hanging plants, and other decorations within private property boundaries. This not only protects public safety but also helps maintain the health of trees and the integrity of public spaces for everyone’s enjoyment.
FEBRUARY COUNCIL ACTIONS
• Approved a Resolution, authorizing the execution of a charitable donation agreement between the Village and Doctors Charter School.
• Approved an Ordinance on first reading, amending Appendix A, Zoning, Article II, Definitions, Section 201, Tense And Number; Certain Words, Terms Defined To Update Definitions; Article III, Districts and district map, Section 300(2) And Article IV, Establishment Of Regulations, Section 411, Schedule Of Regulations, to include the Community Residential District; and creating Division 25, Community Residential District To Establish Regulations For The (Cr) Community Residential District by refunding the application fees.
• Approved a Resolution, approving the Statement of Allowable Uses, response, and settlement offer in response to the claim filed by Bluenest Homes, Inc. Under the Bert J. Harris, Jr., Private Property Rights Protection Act.
• Conducted a Council Workshop (part 1) to review the responsibilities of board and committees and ensure their alignment with Village priorities and community needs. The following boards and committees were discussed: Ad Hoc Traffic Advisory Committee, Code Enforcement Board, Education Advisory Board, Fine Arts Commission, and Historic Preservation Board.
Mike Skofstad Village Arborist
Village Council:
Mayor: George Burch georgeburchdvm@msvfl.gov | 786-893-7022
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BUSINESS BUZZ CORNER
Visit our website www.msvfl.gov and check out our toolkit that provides important resources, from business grants, technical assistance, demographic data and steps to obtain a business tax receipt.
