VILLAGE SEEKS RESIDENT INPUT FOR PARKS MASTER PLAN
Miami Shores Village is embarking on an exciting journey to enhance its public parks and recreation facilities through a comprehensive Parks Master Plan. This initiative aims to shape the future of the Village’s green spaces and recreational amenities by incorporating valuable input from its residents. To facilitate this process, the Village will host two community engagement workshops at the end of October, providing a platform for residents to share their visions and priorities.
What is a Parks Master Plan?
A Parks Master Plan is a strategic document that outlines a systematic approach to the development and management of parks and recreational resources. It serves as a blueprint for:
Orderly and Consistent Planning: Ensures that park development aligns with the community’s long-term vision. Acquisition and Development: Guides the acquisition of new lands and the development of facilities to meet evolving needs. Administration: Provides a framework for managing and maintaining parks and recreation programs. The plan identifies current and future recreational needs, sets an overarching vision for park improvements, and offers guidance to the Mayor and Council for making informed decisions about park development and enhancements.
Community Engagement Workshops
Your input is vital to creating a plan that meets the community’s needs and aspirations. Village officials strongly encourage all residents to participate and voice their opinions on the future of Miami Shores Village parks at one of the two meetings scheduled for the following dates:
Tuesday, October 29, 2024, from 6-8 pm at the 9900 Building on NE 2 Avenue OR Wednesday, October 30, 2024 from 6-8 pm at the Community Center 9617 Park Drive
During these workshops, residents will have the opportunity to discuss their ideas for future park facilities, programs, and amenities. The feedback gathered will play a crucial role in shaping the final Master Plan.
For additional information, please contact the Parks and Recreation Department at 305-758-8103 or visit the Village’s website at msvfl.gov.
WHY DO YOU NEED A BUILDING PERMIT?
Planning a home renovation or new construction project? Before you begin, it’s essential to understand the purpose of a building permit application. A building permit ensures that your project meets local safety and building standards, protecting both your property and the community. When you apply for a permit, local authorities review your plans to ensure they comply with building codes, zoning laws, and environmental regulations. This process helps safeguard the structural integrity of your home and the safety of its occupants. It also prevents costly mistakes or fines that can arise from unpermitted work.
Not only does obtaining a permit protect you legally, but it also benefits future owners by documenting that your work was done in compliance with local laws. This peace of mind can be especially valuable if you plan to sell your home down the road.
By applying for a building permit, you're helping to ensure a safer, more orderly community for everyone! 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
VILLAGE HALL NEWS
CR ZONING WORKSHOP HELD
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. Now, in direct response to the Comprehensive Plan 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 in a manner consistent with the vision set forth.
To that end, on September 12th, 2024 Village Staff organized a Planning and Zoning Community Workshop at Doctors Charter School where approximately +/- 100 residents and community members gathered to express their thoughts and necessary input on what they would like to see developed within the CR District Code regulations. Discussion highlights included building heights, setback distances, building frontage, Streetscapes, green space area(s) and much more.
Surveys were distributed to residents in attendance and collected at the end of the workshop to obtain their feedback on their preferences for specific types of development characteristics. Staff also conducted visual preference survey(s) throughout the night wherein attendees indicated their preferences for local built environments and graphics as found in other successful communities. People were able to vote on what they liked most and share their thoughts on what they most desired.
The workshop was streamed online, recorded and the direct link of the night’s event can be found below at https://www.msvfl.gov/CRZoningDistrict. If you were unable to attend the meeting in-person, please upload your comments on the Village’s website. Please keep sharing your thoughts with us and encourage your neighbors to do the same. In the coming weeks, staff will review and analyze the collected information to formulate further recommendations. We remain committed to hearing from you!
MIAMI SHORES POLICE DEPARTMENT PROMOTIONS
The Miami Shores Police Department is proud to announce the promotion of three outstanding officers: Sergeant Justin Zalonis promoted to Captain; Officer Evan Greene promoted to Sergeant and , Officer Christopher McDonald promoted to Detective. All three were sworn into their new positions during the September 3, 2024 Village Council meeting. These promotions recognize their exemplary service, leadership, and dedication to the safety of our community. Each officer has demonstrated exceptional commitment to their roles. As they take on their new responsibilities, we are confident that their contributions will continue to enhance the department's mission of providing high-quality law enforcement to our community.
Officer Martha Tehera has been honored with the 2023 Officer of the Year Award for her unwavering dedication and exceptional service to the community. Her commitment to upholding the highest standards of law enforcement has made a lasting impact on both her colleagues and the citizens she serves.
Please join us in congratulating them on this well-deserved achievement!
Pictured from left to right: Detective C. McDonald, Sergeant E. Greene, Captain J. Zalonis, and Officer M. Tejera
HOLLY HUGDAHL RETIRES
Congratulations to Finance Director, Holly Hugdahl on her well-deserved retirement on September 30th, 2024 after 13 years of dedicated service. Throughout her tenure, she has played a pivotal role in ensuring the financial health and stability of our organization, managing budgets with skill and integrity. Her leadership and commitment have left a lasting impact, and she will be greatly missed. We wish her all the best in her next chapter and thank her for her invaluable contributions over the years!
OCTOBER EVENTS & HAPPENINGS
PARKS & RECREATION DEPARTMENT
For more information on Parks and Recreation programs call: 305-758-8103
SEPTEMBER RECAP
SUMMER FINAL WAVE RECAP
On September 22, 2024, The Miami Shores Aquatic Center hosted its Summer Final Wave, a thrilling day marking the end of the season. Guests of all ages came together to enjoy a day filled with fun, food, and excitement; there were games and water attractions, adding an extra layer of excitement for the attendees.
As the day ended, guests left with smiles and memories, making Summer Final Wave the perfect send-off for another fantastic season at Wild Waters Aquatic Center.
POLICE DEPARTMENT
MIAMI SHORES POLICE EXPLORERS: SHAPING FUTURE LEADERS IN LAW ENFORCEMENT
The Miami Shores Village Police Explorers Program offers local youth a unique opportunity to learn about law enforcement and develop leadership skills. Open to students aged 14-20, the program provides hands-on experience through ride-alongs, community service, and training in police procedures. Under the guidance of experienced officers, Explorers gain valuable insight into the profession while building teamwork, discipline, and civic responsibility. It's an excellent way for young people to explore a career in law enforcement while making a positive impact in their community.
The Police Department will be holding an open house for interested youth and their parents on Wednesday, October 16, 2024 from 6-8 pm at the Miami Shores Police Department 9990 NE 2 Avenue.
MSPD HOSTS COMMUNITY NIGHT OUT
On Thursday, October 10, 2024 from 4-7pm, the Miami Shores Police Department will host a Community Outreach Event aimed at strengthening the relationship between law enforcement and residents. This free, family-friendly event will feature interactive activities, safety demonstrations, and opportunities to meet local officers. Attendees can enjoy food, entertainment, and learn more about the department’s efforts to keep the community safe. The event is a great chance for residents to ask questions, share concerns, and build a stronger connection with their police department. Everyone is welcome to attend and be a part of fostering a safer, united community.
Featuring: 9900 NE 2nd Avenue Miami Shores, FL
LIBRARY NEWS & EVENTS
For more information on Library programs call: 305-758-8107 | Registration Required.
KIDS PROGRAMS
LIVE PUPPET SHOW
Wednesday, October 2, 2024 | 4:00pm
READ WITH MAJOR TROY
Thursday, October 3, 2024 | 3:30pm
FROST MUSEUM OF SCIENCE
Thursday, October 10, 2024 | 4:00pm
VILLAGE KIDS BOOK CLUB
Wednesday, October 17, 2024 | 4:00pm
SEPTEMBER LIBRARY RECAP
ADULT PROGRAMS
PRESERVATION PUSH IN HISTORIC OPALOCKA
Thursday, October 10, 2024 | 6:00pm
SENIOR TECH CONNECT
Saturday, October 12, 2024 | 10:30am
RESTORATIVE SOUND BATH MEDITATION
Thursday, October 24, 2024 | 6:30pm
On Tuesday, September 17th, the community came out to help the Library kick off the start of the Village’s new StoryWalk® program. Numerous vendors, a live string band, a ribbon cutting and a tree giveaway made the event especially fun and celebratory!
Made possible through a matching grant from the Florida League of Mayors, the StoryWalk® has been permanently installed at Optimist Park located at 9301 NE 2nd Avenue and the current feature, the Caldecott-winning title, A Tree is Nice, by Janice May Udry will be available for viewing over the next several months, after which a new story will be showcased. A project many years in the making, the StoryWalk® is another avenue for the Library to extend its impact beyond the bookshelves.
We thank also our wonderful local sponsors who contributed: Pura Vida, Smoothie Express, the Field Workshop and Rustic French Home, as well as Island Tropical Foliage, who donated the beautiful pink Hong Kong Orchid Trees for the giveaway. If you haven’t visited the StoryWalk® yet, please take a look…It is an experience to enjoy time and time again.
HISTORIC HOUSE OF THE MONTH OCTOBER 2024
Celebrating Miami Shores centennial history, October’s Historic House of the Month showcases this house built in 1924 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. Named “The Simmons House” for its first resident, Mr. O. B. Simmons, a prominent Miami attorney. Shoreland House #6 is listed in the National Register of Historic Places and designated a local Historic Landmark in 1984.
Drive by and admire this beautiful Miami Shores Centennial home at 257 NE 91Street.
Photo Credit: Zalmy Meyer, A.IA.
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 is crucial to remember the importance of preserving our public spaces, particularly the trees in our rights-of-way. There has been a recent increase to the addition of vines, hanging plants, and swings to these trees. This is a reminder to every one of the potential issues and the reasons behind Village 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.
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.
3. Avoiding Obstruction of Visibility
In public rights-of-way, maintaining clear sight lines 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.
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 following these guidelines, we can all contribute to maintaining a safe, beautiful, and healthy environment for everyone in the Village Beautiful.
For any questions or further information, please contact the Miami Shores Public Works at 305-795-2210.
CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT UPDATE
Connecting Sidewalks: A New Pathway on NW 111th Street and NW 2nd Avenue
A recently completed sidewalk on NW 111 Street and 2 Avenue now provides a seamless connection between two existing sidewalks in Dade County and Miami Shores Village. This new addition is more than just concrete and pavement; it symbolizes the growth of community infrastructure and the increasing commitment to pedestrian safety and accessibility in the area.
Prior to this installation, pedestrians navigated areas lacking proper walkways posing safety risks. By connecting the sidewalks, this project has enhanced the continuity of pedestrian pathways, providing safer and more convenient routes for walkers, joggers, and cyclists.
The newly completed sidewalk not only improves walkability but also promotes a more connected and healthier community. The new walkway provides better access to public transportation hubs, schools, parks, and local businesses, fostering economic activity and making the area more livable. This development provides a safer and more accessible path for daily activities. The initiative is in line with the Village’s Ageing Plan focusing on creating a walkable community to enhance quality of life.
With this new connection, the area around NW 111th Street and NW 2nd Avenue is set to experience improved foot traffic. This sidewalk project represents a step towards a more pedestrian-friendly environment, ensuring that residents can enjoy a safer, more accessible, and vibrant neighborhood.
BEFORE AFTER
Mike Skofstad Village Arborist
VILLAGE UPDATES
NEIGHBORHOOD SERVICES
OVERGROWTH OF ALLEYWAYS
Due to the continued rains here in South Florida, there has been faster growth of our landscapes including hedges, plants and trees. Neighborhood Services in collaboration with the Miami Shores Public Works Department, is currently surveying all alleyways within our Village to identify and address any issues related to overgrowth.
To keep our alleyways safe and accessible, hedges, plants, and trees should not be planted within the three foot alleyway easement used by refuse crews. Any existing vegetation in this area must meet setback requirements or be removed. Specifically, vegetation should be maintained at a maximum height of 15 feet and trimmed back at least 1 foot from the edge of the alley road, straight up. Vegetation growing from your property (but not planted in the alley) should be trimmed back to the property’s fence or wall line, with a 15-foot vertical clearance.
If any overgrowth is identified on your property, you will receive a Courtesy Notice with details for maintenance to be completed within 10 business days to avoid further action. When trimming, please keep in mind any piles over 3 cubic yards must be removed by the homeowner or contractor to avoid a dump fee charge.
Ensuring your property remains in compliance contributes to the beauty and safety of our community. Questions regarding this overgrowth initiative? Contact Miami Shores Public Works Waste Division at 305-795-2210. Thank you for your cooperation and support!
SEPTEMBER COUNCIL ACTIONS
• Approved a resolution, adopting the final millage rate of 7.8000 mills for fiscal year 2024/2025, which is 11.81% greater than the calculated “Rolled-Back” rate of 6.9761 mills; and adopting the final debt service millage rate of 0.1459 mills.
• Approved a resolution, adopting the final operating and capital outlay budget for the fiscal year commencing October 1, 2024, through September 30, 2025, pursuant to Section 200.065, Florida statutes; authorizing expenditures consistent therewith and authorizing certain budget amendments within a department provided that the total of the appropriations is not changed.
• Reappointed John Bolton, Brandon Spirk, and Michael O’Hara to the Planning and Zoning Board.
• Appointed Jeffrey Saadeh and Paula Correa Spirk to the Historic Preservation Board.
• Appointed Patrick Huber, Kirk Gilliland-Rodriguez, and Jesse Cangiano to the Code Enforcement Board.
• Appointed Dennis Leyva to the Ad Hoc Traffic Advisory Committee.
• Approved an ordinance on first reading, amending the Village's Code of Ordinances to update regulations to conform to the Florida building code requirements for permitting and remove obsolete provisions related to solar photovoltaic systems.
• Approved an ordinance on first reading, allowing the use of the publicly accessible website to be designated by Miami-Dade County for the publication of legally required advertisements.
• Approved a resolution, designating 565 Grand Concourse as a historic landmark property.
• Approved an inter-local agreement between Miami Shores Village and Miami-Dade County to allow the Village, pursuant to Section 8cc-11 of the Miami-Dade County code of ordinances, to enforce various provisions of the county code and issue civil violation notices.
• Approved the purchase from Stryker Sales Corp, d/b/a Stryker Medical, for an amount not to exceed $81,492.62 for forty-two (42) LifePak CR2 automated external defibrillators (AED).
• Approved the memorandum of understanding between Miami Shores Village, by and through its police department, and the Miami-Dade County State Attorney's Office relating to the Human Trafficking Task Force.
• Approved a Florida Local Agency Program ("Lap") Agreement FM# 447970-1-58-01/ 68-01 With The State Of Florida Department Of Transportation ("FDOT"), providing for reimbursement to the Village in an amount not to exceed $458,680 for the construction and construction and engineering inspection (CEI) services required for Flagler Trail on Club Drive, between NE 91st Street and NE 100th Street.
• Approved the award of invitation to Bid no. 2024-04-01 Miami Shores Village Shore Estates septic to sewer project.
Village Council:
Mayor: George Burch georgeburchdvm@msvfl.gov | 786-893-7022
