Over the past few months, our Village has been actively engaging with the community to shape the future of residential development through a proposed Community Residential (CR) District zoning code. Through workshops, public input meetings, and ongoing dialogue, your voices have been integral in creating a vision for and allowing residents to share their thoughts on the draft CR District standards. Input was collected through verbal feedback, surveys, comment cards, and emails. Key principles gathered from feedback were grouped into three focus areas:
1. Process – Streamlined and transparent procedures.
2. Character – Maintaining the unique identity and charm of the Village.
3. Infrastructure – Ensuring development aligns with infrastructure capacity and sustainability.
These ideas formed the foundation for the Planning and Zoning Board’s discussion at their special called meeting on November 18th. The meeting was well-attended, with more than 85 residents voicing their opinions. Representatives from Barry University and Lennar Homes presented a conceptual plan with draft zoning standards for development on the 23.5-acre Barry University site. If you missed it, the session was streamed live and is available for viewing on the Village website.
The Planning and Zoning Board had a robust and collaborative discussion and made recommendations related to:
• Plot standards and building configurations
• Architectural design and expressions
• Setbacks and parking requirements
• Townhome clustering and layout
Village staff will incorporate the feedback into a refined draft CR District zoning code, which will be presented at the December 19 Planning and Zoning Board Meeting. Your Voice Matters! This is your Village, and your input is essential. Please visit the Village website https://www.msvfl.gov/CRZoningDistrict to:
• Watch the recorded meeting.
• Review the public input summary report.
• Share your thoughts through online prompts. Together, we can ensure that the CR District reflects our community's values and aspirations. Thank you for staying involved and helping shape the future of our Village!
JOINT WORKSHOP
The Miami Shores Village Council has scheduled a joint workshop with the Miami Shores Country Club Advisory Board to review and discuss the National Golf Foundation report and the proposed redesign of the Miami Shores Country Club and Golf Course.
The workshop will take place on Tuesday, December 10, 2024, at 5:30 PM in the Multipurpose Building, located at 9900 NE 2nd Avenue, Miami Shores, FL.
Community members are encouraged to attend and participate.
ON THE MIAMI SHORES COUNTRY CLUB AND GOLF COURSE
VILLAGE HALL NEWS
WELCOME OFFICER DAVILIEN
Your Miami Shores Police Department is proud to announce the addition of its newest Patrol Officer, Officer Evinson Davilien. Officer Davilienis a recent graduate of the Miami-Dade School of Justice Basic Law Enforcement academy. He was sworn in as a duly appointed Law Enforcement Officer for MSPD on October 30th, 2024, by Chief David Golt. Ofc. Davilien has chosen a life of service and dedication to protecting others. Please join us in welcoming and congratulating him!
ADMINISTRATIVE EXCELLENCE AWARD
The Miami Shores Police Department proudly recognizes Executive Assistant Jennifer Spotts, Sergeant Charles Grandy, and Sergeant Evan Greene with the inaugural Administrative Excellence Award. For the first time in over a decade, an officer of the quarter has been chosen starting in 2023 and since, the addition of Officer of the Year and Civilian of the Year have been selected. Their exceptional work in revamping the Department's Awards Program has set a new standard of excellence. Congratulations!
OFFICER OF THE 3RD QUARTER 2024
Detective Igor Kubicek earned the Officer of the 3rd Quarter Award for his life-saving actions and exemplary investigative work. His quick response in a medical emergency and leadership in recovering $200,000 in stolen property reflect the highest standards of law enforcement. Well done, Detective Kubicek!
VILLAGE EMPLOYEES CELEBRATE THANKSGIVING WITH TURKEY GIVEAWAY
In the spirit of Thanksgiving, the Village showed its appreciation for its hardworking general employees by continuing the cherished tradition of providing turkeys for the holiday season. Employees were delighted to receive a Thanksgiving turkey as a token of gratitude for their dedication and service throughout the year. This gesture not only highlights the Village's commitment to fostering a sense of community and appreciation among its workforce but also ensures employees feel recognized during this season of thanks and giving.
VILLAGE EARNS OUTSTANDING SCORE ON HUMAN RIGHTS CAMPAIGN
The Village is proud to announce its remarkable achievement of earning a score of 92 on the Human Rights Campaign’s Municipal Equality Index (MEI). This score reflects the Village's ongoing commitment to fostering an inclusive and equitable community for all residents, employees, and visitors. The MEI evaluates cities and villages nationwide on their policies, practices, and services that support LGBTQ+ inclusion. The impressive score highlights the Village’s dedication to creating a welcoming environment and implementing progressive policies that promote diversity and equality.
DECEMBER EVENTS & HAPPENINGS
PARKS & RECREATION DEPARTMENT
For more information on Parks and Recreation programs call: 305-758-8103
NOVEMBER EVENTS RECAP
BASKETBALL CLINIC HOSTED BY BARRY UNIVERSITY FOR SHORES INTRAMURAL BASKETBALL PROGRAM
Coach Butch Estes and his Barry University Men’s Basketball Team teamed up with the Shores Recreation Basketball program for a clinic showcasing drills and skills for the players as they prepare for the upcoming season. Kids had a ball and we look forward to other collaborations with Barry University.
LETTERS TO SANTA
Not sure how to send a letter to Santa Claus? From November 25 to December 13, an express mailbox to the North Pole will be available to drop off your letters to Santa!
KIDS DAY OFF
December 20 | 8:30am-5:00pm Enjoy a Field trip to Dezerland! Residents $55 / NR $72
WINTER BREAK CAMP
December 23, 26, 27 & 30 | 8:30am-5:00pm
Miami Shores Winter Camp is filled with fun field trips and exciting themed activities. Residents $135 / NR $176
CHANUKAH MENORAH LIGHTING
December 29 | Time TBD
Let's come together to kindle the flames of Chanukah, creating memories that will illuminate our hearts and homes. Don't miss out on this opportunity to be part of the fourth annual Menorah Lighting.
LIBRARY NEWS & EVENTS
For more information on Library programs call: 305-758-8107 | Registration Required.
NOVEMBER LIBRARY RECAP
Centennial Celebration Finale Held at Brockway Library
On November 7th, the Miami Shores Historic Preservation Board, led by Chair Patrizia Bonaduce, hosted an event at Brockway Memorial Library commemorating the year-long efforts put forth by the Board to celebrate the Centennial Anniversary of the original Shoreland Company houses in Miami Shores Village - 1924- 2024. These efforts included a fantastic tour of five historic Shoreland Company homes , commemorative lawn signs placed at approximately 100 houses, and a brunch held for current owners of Miami Shores historic houses. Floor plans found and restored through the extensive efforts of Ms. Bonaduce, along with other documents related to these homes, were graciously donated to the Library's Archives. Finally, we were honored to have Mayor Burch along with two of the grandchildren of Roy H. Hawkins, the Vice President of Bessemer Properties, Milton S. Dillon III and Jeannie Hawkins, in attendance.
Historical Note: In 1928, the New Miami Shores Corporation purchased the Shoreland Company’s holdings after the company went bankrupt following the devastating hurricane of 1926. This corporation was controlled by Bessemer Properties, part of the interests of the Phipps family of New York. Roy H. Hawkins, the General Manager of Bessemer Properties, proceeded with the plans for the community known today as Miami Shores Village. He is credited as being the Village's “principal founder”. Learn more about our Village history at www.msvfl.gov/TheMiamiShoresStory or make an appointment to visit the archives today! Email archives@msvfl.gov to schedule a personal tour with our Village Archivist, John Bachay.
KIDS PROGRAMS
READ WITH MAJOR TROY
Thursday, December 5, 2024 | 3:30pm
HOLIDAY PUPPET SHOW
Wednesday, December 11, 2024 | 10:30am
FROST MUSEUM OF SCIENCE
Thursday, December 12, 2024 | 4:00pm
VILLAGE KIDS BOOK CLUB
Thursday, December 19, 2024 | 4:00pm
SATURDAY STORY TIME
Saturday, December 21, 2024 | 10:30am
ADULT PROGRAMS
THE LIFE & TIME OF LITERACY FAVORITES with Lauren Radick Every Friday | 1pm
We welcome the following new businesses this month: Family Central, Inc at 9301 NE 6 Avenue
Family Central Inc is a multi-faceted social service agency serving 18,000 South Florida children annually. FCI and its dedicated team of professionals serve the community via comprehensive family strengthening, early learning initiatives, a child care food and nutrition program implemented in over 250 childcare centers, and educational training services in South Florida.
PUBLIC WORKS
BULK WASTE DISPOSAL POLICY
In the Village’s ongoing effort to streamline waste management practices and maintain the aesthetic appeal of our community, we are implementing changes to our bulk waste disposal policy. Over the years, we have shown flexibility in accommodating larger bulk waste piles. However, due to the excessive frequency of these larger piles and the constraints they create, effective immediately, we will no longer accept bulk waste exceeding 3 cubic yards in size. Reference Village Ordinance Sec. 9-2(d).
If bulk waste is found to be in violation of the 3 cubic yard limit, a Courtesy Notice will be issued by a Public Works official. The notice will highlight the violation, outline the corresponding fees associated with an available special pick-up, and set a compliance date.
Example: If a landscaping contractor generates waste that exceeds 3 cubic yards, the resident will be responsible for notifying the contractor to haul away any excess debris beyond the allowed limit. This ensures that the burden of managing excessive bulk piles does not fall on Village resources..
We appreciate your understanding and cooperation as we implement these changes to enhance our waste management efficiency. Let us work together to ensure a well-maintained, safe, and visually appealing community for everyone. Thank you.
NOVEMBER COUNCIL ACTIONS
• Approved a Statewide Mutual Aid Agreement between the State of Florida Division of Emergency Management and Miami Shores Village, authorizing the request, provision, and receipt of Inter-jurisdictional Mutual Assistance in accordance with the Emergency Management Act, Chapter 252, among political subdivisions within the state.
• Approved a Resolution, ratifying the approval of a temporary Recycling Services Agreement with Waste Management Inc. of Florida, for the disposal of recycle material at a cost of $140.00 per ton of recycle material.
• Approved a Resolution, adopting a proclamation policy.
• Directed the Village Manager and Village Clerk to schedule a joint workshop with Council and the Country Club Advisory Board to discuss the draft proposal presented by National Golf Foundation Consulting.
• Adopted an Ordinance, amending chapter 20, “Streets, Sidewalks and Other Public Places,” Article II., “streets” to update regulations governing sidewalks.
• Adopted a Resolution, appropriating $1,000,000 from the contingency line item in the Fiscal Year 2023-2024 budget to the Committed General Fund balance for the purpose of providing funding for future Septic to Sewer conversion.
• Adopted a Resolution, creating a budget amendment #1 to the Fiscal Year 2023-2024 Operating Budgets, increasing revenues and effectuating transfers to reverse the year end budgetary deficit.
• Adopted a Resolution, creating budget amendment #1 to the Fiscal Year 2024-2025 Operating Budgets, appropriating funds from the various fund balances to increase annual operating budgets to include appropriations which began in the previous fiscal year but were not completed.
• Directed the Village Attorney to research best practices and draft an amendment to the Code of Ordinances, updating Section 5-25 “Leash or other control of dogs required” and for said draft to be brought forth for Council consideration.
• Sunset the Ad Hoc Communications Committee.
VILLAGE UPDATES
NEIGHBORHOOD SERVICES
HOLIDAY SEASON TIPS FOR A JOYFUL AND SAFE COMMUNITY!
As we welcome the holiday season, we kindly encourage all residents to remember these friendly reminders to help create a safe, cheerful, and well-kept neighborhood:
• Lighting & Decorations: Please refrain from placing lights or ornaments in public areas, and avoid running extension cords across sidewalks.
• Landscape Care: Regularly trim trees and bushes to ensure they don’t block doors, windows, or pathways. Overgrown plants can provide hiding spots for unwanted visitors.
• Irrigation Systems: Make sure your irrigation system is working well and set to water at the right times to prevent waste.
• Walkways & Driveways: Keep your walkways, driveways, and landscaping tidy and free from clutter.
• Holiday Lights Safety: Ensure your holiday lights are safely arranged and properly powered to avoid any hazards.
• Guest Etiquette: When hosting gatherings, please remind your guests to keep public sidewalks clear and not obstruct pedestrian traffic.
• Bulk Trash: Please limit bulk trash to no more than 3 cubic yards for collection to prevent overflow or delays.
• Noise Level: Keep music and noise at a reasonable level to respect your neighbors and maintain a peaceful atmosphere.
• Cleanliness: Ensure there are no loose decorations, trash, or materials around your property.
• Food Waste: Promptly clean up any food crumbs and waste to avoid attracting insects, rodents, or other pests.
Thank you for your cooperation in keeping our neighborhood safe and enjoyable for all. Wishing you a delightful holiday season!
HISTORIC HOUSE OF THE MONTH DECEMBER 2024
In celebrating Miami Shores centennial history, December's historic house of the month showcases this house built in 1928 by the Shoreland Company and finished by Bessemer Properties. The house was designed by famous Architect Robert Law Weed in the Mediterranean revival style. Weed also designed the Miami Shores Elementary School and the Grand Concourse Apartments, among many others in South Florida. Named “The Hawkins House”, for its first resident, Mr. Roy H. Hawkins, the founder of Bessemer Properties, which took over the Shoreland Company in 1928, and continued the development of Miami Shores. Hawkins initiated the legislation which created the municipality of Miami Shores in 1932.
Drive by and admire this beautiful Miami Shores Centennial home at 1098 NE 96th St!
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. For further information on the explorer program requirements please contact 305-759-2468.
The Police Department will be holding an open house for interested youth and their parents on December 11, 2024 from 6-8 pm at the Miami Shores Police Department 9990 NE 2 Avenue.
Photo Credit: Zalmy Meyer, A.IA.
Village Council:
Mayor: George Burch georgeburchdvm@msvfl.gov | 786-893-7022
Follow us on Instagram instagram.com/miamishoresvillage1932
Village Offices will be Closed
Wednesday, December 25 for the Christmas Holiday and on Wednesday, January 1 for New Years Day. Regular Garbage and Recycling schedules will be followed.
