We welcome your input and our goal is to achieve consensus. Please join us on the evening of September 12th, 2024 at 6:30 pm at a public workshop at Doctors Charter School 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 which included designating certain parcels of land as CR District (see mapped area in yellow below).
FOSTERING COMMUNITY FOR A LIFE TIME:
Now, in direct response to the Amendment, the Village Zoning Code must be updated and changed to create zoning regulations that establish the new CR zoning district. This is the opportunity to shape the way the property is developed. The Draft proposed CR Regulations are available for review and public input on the Village’s website: Miami Shores Florida - Proposed Draft Community Residential Zoning District Regulations (msvfl.gov) Please assist us by submitting your feedback through the website and plan to attend the workshop on September 12th. We look forward to a robust conversation on the new code and its impact on the Village’s built environment.
AGEFRIENDLY COMMUNITY
As the population of Miami Shores ages, the need for comprehensive support and resources for older adults becomes increasingly essential. Through the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP), Miami Shores Village joined the Age-Friendly Community to offer a wide array of benefits tailored to enhance the quality of life for seniors.Part of this ongoing commitment to social inclusion and community health services, is adult offerings at the Library this month. Brockway Library has an ongoing program Senior Tech Connect which revolutionizes tech education for older adults with personalized, accessible digital literacy. At the Alzheimers & Dementia Research program, you will learn about the science, risk factors, early detection and advances in treatment. The Healthy Aging Seminar features local medical experts discussing longevity and healthy aging.
Did you know Brockway Library also provides the following services for our adult community?
• Portable magnifying glasses available at front desk
• Large, hands-free magnifier with light for viewing a book/newspaper underneath
• Free downloadable eBooks, eAudio, and digital magazines
• Brockway participates in Miami-Dade County’s Talking books/Braille program. This free service is available to our residents via the library.
• 1,500+ Large Print books – New/current titles added monthly.
• Free delivery of library materials to the homebound
• We offer age-friendly programs throughout the year on topics such as how to outfit your home for your senior years, how to keep your brain young, retirement planning, estate planning and social security.
• We actively partner with FIU’s OSHER to offer dynamic programming tailored to the 55 and older set. The Aging Plan offers a comprehensive suite of benefits that can significantly enhance the lives of seniors in Miami Shores Village. By partnering with AARP, we can ensure that older residents have access to the support, resources, and opportunities they need to thrive. From health and wellness programs to financial security initiatives, our offerings align perfectly with the values and needs outlined by AARP, creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for aging residents.
VILLAGE HALL NEWS
NEW HIRE YAMILETH “YAMI” SLATEMCCLOUD
Miami Shores Village is pleased to announce the hiring of Yamileth “Yami” Slate-McCloud as the new Human Resources Director. Yami brings over 25 years of extensive experience in human resources management. Before joining Miami Shores Village, Yami served as the HR Director for the Town of Surfside for 17 years, where she was instrumental in establishing and enhancing the town’s HR department. Yami holds a degree in Business Administration and is a Certified Public Human Resources Professional (PHRP), a Florida Certified Labor Relations Professional (FCLRP), and a Certified Public Pension Trustee (CPPT). She is also an active member of several professional organizations, including the International Public Management for Human Resources Association (IPMA-HR), the Florida Public Employer Labor Relations Association (FPELRA), Public Risk Management Association – South Florida Chapter (PRIMA), Human Resources Association of Broward County (HRABC) and the Society for Human Resource Management. She is committed to advancing HR practices in Miami Shores Village, ensuring that the Village continues to thrive.
NEW HIRE LEOPOLD LOUIS
Leopold Louis previously worked with the Miami-Dade Police Department as a Police Officer for seven years. Before that he worked with both the city of Fort Lauderdale and the city of North Miami Beach as a Code Compliance officer. He is a married father with two beautiful daughters who always strives for success with everything he does. And now has joined Miami Shores Village working in the capacity of Neighborhood Services Officer.
NEW HIRE DAVID FLORES
With over a decade of experience in the Parks and Recreation field, our new Recreation Manager II, David Flores, is an accomplished youth sports administrator and recreational program manager with extensive experience in enhancing athletic and recreational opportunities for diverse communities. With a background in sports management and program development, David excels in designing and implementing engaging sports leagues and recreational programs that promote physical fitness, teamwork, and community involvement.
CONGRATS TO LIBRARY ASSISTANT, LARS ESSINGTON
Congratulations to Brockway’s Lars Essington, who recently completed a Master of Library Science (MLS) from the University of South Florida. A Library assistant for almost 2 years, Lars refers to himself as the long-haired hippie-looking, resident horror nerd at Brockway’s front desk in the afternoons. On this milestone, Essington comments, “I’ve been a regular patron at Brockway for over twenty years, and I’ve lived in Miami Shores my entire life. I’ve loved this library for a very long time. USF’s master’s program really helped show me all of the nuts and bolts that go on behind the scenes, from writing library policy based on the observed needs of patrons to the more technical side of things like building databases and filling out metadata. My own previous experience combined with this course really helped to cement my belief that a library isn’t just a place where you get your books; it’s an important pillar of the community for people of all ages. I definitely want to keep going in the field of public libraries, and I hope that wherever I end up, I can continue to help the library provide for the people who visit it every day.” Miami Shores Village and the Brockway Library Staff and Board wish Lars continued success in his chosen field.
SEPTEMBER EVENTS & HAPPENINGS
In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, join us for a special Saturday Storytime on September 21st, 2024 at 10:30am for children ages 3 to 7.
Meet Karol Hernandez, author of I Am La Chiva!: The Colorful Bus of the Andes; Follow the iconic bus, or chiva, as it navigates the rugged Andes mountains, celebrating the rich culture and landscape of Colombia.
Snack and craft to follow. RSVP required: 305-758-8107
PARKS & RECREATION DEPARTMENT
STEALS & DEALS COMMUNITY GARAGE SALE
Saturday, September 7, 2024 | 9:00am
SUMMER’S FINAL WAVE
Sunday, September 22, 2024 | 11am
DOGGIE DIP
Sunday, September 29, 2024 | 11am
FINE ARTS COMMISSION GALLERY NIGHT
Friday, September 20, 2024 | 7:00 pm
AFTER SCHOOL CARE PROGRAM:
We are excited to announce that our Parks and Recreation Aftercare Program is now welcoming new participants from kindergarten to fifth grade! If you’re looking for a fantastic after-school experience for your child, this is the perfect opportunity! Transportation provided from schools located in Miami Shores.
For more Information, contact the Field House at 305.758-6701 or athletics@msvfl.gov
MIAMI SHORES VILLAGE STAFF ATTEND ANNUAL
FLORIDA RECREATION AND PARK ASSOCIATION STATE CONFERENCE IN ORLANDO
Miami Shores Village staff recently participated in the annual Florida Recreation and Park Association (FRPA) State Conference in Orlando, a premier event that brings together parks and recreation professionals from across the state. The conference, known for its robust schedule of educational sessions, networking opportunities, and access to an array of recreation vendors, plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of recreation services in Florida’s communities.
The FRPA conference is a cornerstone for professional development, offering Miami Shores Village staff an opportunity to gain new insights into the latest trends, best practices, and innovative approaches in parks and recreation management. In addition, networking opportunities abound with Miami Shores staff taking full advantage of the chance to connect with peers from other municipalities, state agencies, and private organizations. Through these networking opportunities, Miami Shores staff were able to discuss common challenges faced by recreation departments across Florida. This allowed staff to learn how other communities address challenges and to adopt successful strategies tailored to the unique needs of its residents.
Miami Shores staff had the opportunity to explore new equipment options with over 130 vendors showcasing the latest products, technologies, and services in the recreation industry. From playground equipment and fitness solutions to park maintenance tools and software for managing community centers, these vendors provide access to innovative resources that can enhance the quality of life in Miami Shores
Looking Ahead
As Miami Shores Village looks to the future, the lessons learned at the FRPA conference will play a key role in shaping its recreational offerings. Whether it’s launching new programs that promote health and wellness, enhancing accessibility in parks, or finding creative ways to engage the community, the Village is well-equipped to meet the evolving needs of its residents. The commitment to ongoing education and collaboration ensures that Miami Shores remains a vibrant place to live, work, and play. With the knowledge and resources gained from the FRPA conference, Village staff are ready to continue their mission of enriching the lives of all community members through exceptional parks and recreation services.
For more information on Parks and Recreation programs call: 305-758-8103
LIBRARY NEWS & EVENTS
For more information on Library programs call: 305-758-8107 | Registration Required.
KIDS PROGRAMS
LIVE PUPPET SHOW
Wednesday, September 4, 2024 | 4:00pm
READ WITH MAJOR TROY
Thursday, September 5, 2024 | 3:30pm
FROST MUSEUM OF SCIENCE
Thursday, September 12, 2024 | 4:00pm
STORY WALK
Tuesday, September 17, 2024 | 3:30pm
VILLAGE KIDS BOOK CLUB
Thursday, September 19, 2024 | 4:00pm
SATURDAY STORYTIME
Saturday, September 21, 2024 | 10:30am
ADULT PROGRAMS
SENIOR TECH CONNECT
Saturday, September 7, 2024 | 10:30am
ALZHEIMERS & DEMENTIA RESEARCH
Tuesday, September 10, 2024 | 10:30am
HEALTHY AGING SEMINAR
Thursday, September 12, 2024 | 6:00pm
RESTORATIVE SOUND BATH MEDITATION
Thursday, September 19, 2024 | 6:30pm
BUSINESS BUZZ CORNER
HAVE YOU RENEWED YOUR BUSINESS TAX RECEIPT?
If you currently have a business license with Miami Shores Village, the Business Tax Receipt (BTR) renewal is due September 30, 2024. Please renew your business license before this date, or penalties will apply. Please call Neighborhood Services at 305-762-4863 with any questions.
PUBLIC WORKS
REMINDER: KEEP PUBLIC TREES FREE OF VINES, HANGING PLANTS, AND SWINGS
As we continue to appreciate the natural beauty and charm of our village, it’s crucial to remember the importance of preserving our public spaces, particularly the trees in our rights-of-way. We’ve observed an increase in the addition of vines, hanging plants, and swings to these trees, and we’d like to remind everyone of the potential issues and the reasons behind our guidelines.
Why You Should Avoid Hanging Plants, Vines, and Swings in Public Trees:
1. Protecting Tree Health
Our public trees are essential to our community’s environment and aesthetics. Hanging plants and vines can obstruct the sunlight needed for healthy growth, while swings and additional weight can put undue stress on the trees. Vines can cling to tree trunks and branches, causing physical damage and making trees more susceptible to diseases and pests. Ensuring the health of these trees is vital for maintaining the beauty and ecological balance of our public spaces.
2. Ensuring Safety for All
Safety is a top priority for our community. Hanging plants, vines, and swings in public trees can pose significant risks to pedestrians. Overhanging branches and dangling items can create tripping hazards, lead to falls, or cause entanglement. Swings, in particular, can present dangers if not properly installed or maintained, potentially leading to accidents and injuries. Keeping these areas clear is essential for preventing hazards and ensuring everyone’s safety.
3. Avoiding Obstruction of Visibility
In public rights-of-way, maintaining clear sightlines is crucial for both pedestrians and drivers. Hanging plants, vines, and swings can obstruct visibility, making it harder for people to navigate crossings, driveways, and intersections safely. By keeping these areas free from such attachments, we help prevent accidents and ensure safe movement through our community.
4. Protecting Our Environment
Some hanging plants and vines can become invasive, spreading beyond their intended areas and disrupting local ecosystems. Swings and other attachments can also impact the environment by altering tree health and the surrounding area. By avoiding these additions in public trees, we help preserve local biodiversity and maintain a healthy ecosystem. Your cooperation in this matter is greatly appreciated. By following these guidelines, we can all contribute to maintaining a safe, beautiful, and healthy environment for everyone in our village.
For any questions or further information, please contact the Miami Shores Public Works at 305-795-2210. Thank you for your understanding and continued support.
POLICE DEPARTMENT
MSPD & BARRY U ACTIVE ASSAILANT SIMULATED TRAINING
On August 5th, 6th, and 16th, the Miami Shores Police Department personnel and Barry University staff, along with representatives from Miami-Dade Police Department and Miami-Dade Fire Rescue, conducted joint Active Assailant simulated training on Barry’s main campus. In today’s world we can no longer afford to say, “That could never happen here”. We all have to be prepared for an active assailant, formerly referred to as an active threat, to occur anywhere.
For this reason, Chief David Golt believes it is crucial that your MSPD conducts Active Assailant training multiple times a year on our school campuses, our MSV facilities, and in religious institutions/buildings. We are dedicated to being ready, able and willing to meet and face any potential threat to life and safety.
Mike Skofstad Village Arborist
VILLAGE UPDATES
Do you know it is against our Village Code to walk your dog without a leash?
Dog leashes are a fundamental tool in pet ownership, playing a crucial role in keeping your canine companion safe and well-behaved. Whether you’re taking a leisurely stroll through the park or navigating busy urban streets, dogs are required to wear a leash. Sec. 5-25. - Leash or other control of dogs required.
No dog shall be allowed upon property other than that of its owner, unless it shall be fastened to a suitable leash of dependable strength, not to exceed eight feet in length, or unless the animal is under control of the owner or other responsible person. (Code 1971, § 4-15) Benefits of Using a Leash
1. Safety
Control: A leash allows you to maintain control over your dog, especially in high-traffic areas or when encountering other animals. Prevention of Escapes: Keeps your dog from running away or getting lost.
2. Training
Behavior Management: Helps in teaching commands and reinforcing good behavior. A well-chosen leash can assist in training your dog to walk nicely on a leash.
Recall Training: Long training leashes can improve your dog’s recall skills.
3. Socialization
Controlled Interaction: Leashes help manage your dog’s interactions with other dogs and people, providing a controlled environment for socialization.
A dog leash is more than just a tool for walks—it’s an essential part of responsible pet ownership that contributes to your dog’s safety, training, and overall well-being as well as providing your neighbors with piece of mind. By following the Code and using a leash, you can ensure that your walks are enjoyable and productive for both you and your furry friend.
Additional Resources
For further reading on dog training tips, visit: American Kennel Club (AKC)Dog Training Tips - The Humane Society
HISTORIC HOUSE OF THE MONTH SEPTEMBER 2024
Celebrating Miami Shores centennial history, September’s historic house of the month showcases this house built in 1926 by the Shoreland Company. Designed in the Mediterranean revival style by the first registered architect in Miami-Dade County, Walter DeGarmo, a prominent architect with countless luxury residential structures in Coral Gables and Coconut Grove in the Mission revival and Mediterranean revival styles. Named “The Turner House” for its first resident, Dr. John C. Turner, a prominent physician and surgeon. Shoreland House #101 was registered as a National Historic place in 1988.
Drive by and admire this beautiful Miami Shores Centennial home at 540 NE 96th St!
DID YOU KNOW THAT APPLYING FOR A BUILDING PERMIT HAS NEVER BEEN EASIER?
You can now do it right from the comfort of your own home or office. No need to make a trip—simply visit us online at msvfl.gov/Building and follow these easy steps:
1. Start Your Journey Online: Head over to our website and find the building permits section—it’s your one-stop shop for all things permitting.
2. Locate the Right Forms: Browse through our selection of forms to find exactly what you need for your specific permit type. We've made it easy for you.
3. Get the Inside Scoop: Before you dive into the application process, we highly recommend checking out our CSS tutorial video. This helpful guide will walk you through the entire process, step by step, ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience.
4. Ready, Set, Submit! Once you’ve gathered all your documents, simply upload your completed permit application along with any necessary supporting files. It’s as easy as that…
If you have any questions or need a helping hand, our friendly team is here to assist you. Feel free to reach out to any of our dedicated staff members via email at buildingdepartment@msvfl.gov
Photo Credit: Zalmy Meyer, A.IA.
Village Council:
Mayor: George Burch georgeburchdvm@msvfl.gov | 786-893-7022
