On July 1, 2025, the Village Council adopted Resolution No. 2025-20, awarding Invitation to Bid (ITB) 2025-02-01 for drainage improvements along NE 8th Avenue from NE 90th Street to NE 93rd Street. The project was awarded to Pabon Engineering, Inc. This project aimed to address deficiencies in flooding and stormwater management in the NE 8th Avenue corridor. It included installing new catch basins, exfiltration trenches, and cross-drain piping.
Pabon Engineering received a Notice to Proceed on September 15, 2025. The contractor immediately mobilized and began work in the construction zone. The project was scheduled for completion in 180 days, but the contractor achieved substantial completion in 60 days. Additional paving work on two sections of roadway, not initially included in the project scope, was also completed. The final items were finished by the end of November 2025.
The project was partially funded through a Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) Water Quality Grant and the MSV Stormwater Fund. The total project cost was $645,000.
PLANNING AND ZONING
Miami Shores Village is rewriting the Residential “R” Zoning Code, and we want you to be part of it! Earlier this year, on April 22nd and July 17th, more than 30 residents joined our lively community workshops at Village Hall to share ideas about what makes our single-family neighborhoods special — and how we can make them even better. Together, we explored key zoning topics like setbacks, roof heights, lot coverage, and driveway design, while residents offered thoughtful insights and creative suggestions for the future.
Your feedback didn’t stop there! Many neighbors continued the conversation by submitting surveys online and in person, helping Village staff better understand what types of development our community wants to see — and where our zoning rules could evolve to protect the character of Miami Shores while allowing thoughtful improvements. Continued on Pg 2 Village Hall News
VILLAGE HALL NEWS
SEAWALL UPDATE
Construction of the new Bayfront Park seawall began in earnest last month and is progressing steadily. The contractor will continue pile-driving activities through this month and will also continuing the removal of existing riprap, which residents may have observed temporarily stockpiled on site. The riprap will be returned to the shoreline later in the project. The living seawall panel fabrication began in mid-November, and are scheduled to arrive and be installed this month.
A reminder that Bayfront Park and its parking area remain fully closed to the public for the duration of construction. Please practice caution when visiting the area. The Village has installed signs and increased police presence along N Bayshore Drive to deter illegal parking and ensure public safety.
If you have any questions regarding this or other Miami Shores Village Public Works projects, please contact the Public Works office at 305.795.2210.
PLANNING AND ZONING BOARD SPECIAL CALL MEETING CONT’D
Now, we’re excited to share the draft ordinance based on your input and the Executive Summary Report, which is available online for everyone to review. Join us Monday, December 8th, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. at Village Hall Council Chambers (10050 NE 2nd Avenue)
This Special Call Planning & Zoning Board Meeting is your chance to see how community feedback has shaped the draft ordinance — and to share your ideas for improvement. The Board will review the draft and guide Village staff on what’s working well and where refinements are needed. A public comment period will also be held, giving every resident a voice in shaping the future of Miami Shores. Be heard and be part of the conversation!
Visit the link at https://www.msvfl.gov/ResidentialRCode or scan the QR-Code to view our report and key findings. Your voice matters—help us shape the future of our community!
CAPSTONE PROJECT
Cameron Schoch, a senior at Miami Country Day School, presented her capstone project during Brockway Library’s Saturday Storytime on October 18, 2025. Guided by Ms. Holsing, the library’s Youth Services Librarian, Cameron designed a literacy activity that invited children to explore the architectural and STEM-based elements of building a haunted house. The hands-on project was inspired by the read-aloud selection In the Haunted House by Eve Bunting, blending storytelling with creativity and design.
Through the engineering-focused haunted house kits, Cameron showed children how scientific principles appear in their daily lives, and Ms. Holsing’s book reading helped them connect those ideas to literacy in a fun and accessible way. In her membership of the Capstone Honor Society at Miami Country Day School, Cameron faces the challenge of developing a major, student-led community service initiative that demonstrates leadership, sustainability, and meaningful impact. Her capstone project reflects these values, serving not only as an engaging educational experience for young readers but also as a testament to her commitment to enriching the community. More than a school assignment, the project stands as the centerpiece of her passion for STEM and a lasting example of service through innovation.
DECEMBER EVENTS & HAPPENINGS
DECEMBER COUNCIL ACTIONS
• Approved the award of the Disaster Debris Monitoring Services and Financial Recovery Assistance and authorized the Village Manager to enter into an agreement with Tetra Tech, Inc. for three-year period.
• Approved a resolution, authorizing the purchase of cellular enclosures from High Tide Technologies as a sole source procurement in an amount no to exceed $27,839.70.
• Adopted an ordinance, clarifying the Charter School Authority Board’s contracting authority.
• Appointed Paul Madsen to the Sustainability and Resiliency Committee.
• Approved a piggyback agreement with the YMCA of South Florida, Inc. for after school programming.
• Approved a resolution, creating budget amendment #1, appropriating funds from various fund balances to increase annual operating budgets to include appropriations which began the previous fiscal year.
• Approved a final budget amendment to the annual budget for fiscal year October 1, 2024 to September 30, 2025. Increasing revenues and effectuating transfers to reverse the year end budgetary deficit.
• Approved the reinstatement and funding of the Cambridge International Primary Program at Miami Shores Elementary School.
CODE COMPLIANCE
INOPERABLE VEHICLES
In Miami Shores Village, storing inoperable vehicles on private property or in the public right-of-way is prohibited because it threatens neighborhood appearance, public safety, and local infrastructure. Inoperable vehicles-those missing parts, with flat tires, expired registration, or unable to move under their own power-create visual blight, reduce nearby property values, and can leak hazardous fluids that harm the environment. They may attract rodents, damage drainage areas such as swales, and obstruct sidewalks or streets when left in the right-of-way, interfering with emergency services and routine maintenance.
According to Village Code Sec. 13-1, no vehicle may be stored outdoors unless it is in "provable operating condition" and properly tagged, unless kept inside a fully enclosed structure. Any vehicle that appears patently unfit for safe operation or lacks a valid license tag is presumed inoperable. The code declares such conditions a public nuisance and a hazard to life, property, health, and welfare. Property owners have 15 days after written notice to correct the violation. By enforcing these rules, Miami Shores Village protects neighborhood character, maintains safe and functional streets, and prevents unregulated vehicle storage in residential areas.
BOARD NEWS
HISTORIC HOUSE OF THE MONTH
As part of the Historic Preservation Board’s 2025 Historic House of the Month program which highlights homes from the 1930s and 1940s, we are showcasing this graceful house which was built in 1930 for Miami Shores resident John M. Carlisle and his wife Kathryn Rollins Carlisle. Although the architect is unknown, the house is a beautiful example of architecture in transition with Art Deco/Streamline Moderne qualities coupled with an emerging Traditional style that was a precursor to the Colonial Revival movement. With its smooth stucco walls, relatively low hip roof, and emphasis on clean, horizontal forms, the house reflects the era’s fascination with modernity and motion. The grouped windows, front bay window (added in the 1940s), and black-and-white striped awnings add both interest and contrast to the otherwise minimalist façade. Typical of many Miami Shores homes from this period, the design combines elegance and simplicity.
Drive or walk by and admire this beautiful Miami Shores home at 10007 NE 4th Ave!
POLICE DEPARTMENT
DON’T LET THE GRINCH RUIN YOUR HOLIDAYS
The holiday season is a time for joy, family, and celebration — but it’s also when thieves and scammers look for easy targets. Chief David Golt and your Miami Shores Police Department remind residents to stay alert and take simple steps to keep the season bright. Always lock your doors and windows when you’re away from home or when you are home, but in a different part of the house. When shopping, secure packages in the trunk and avoid leaving valuables visible in your car.
Be cautious of online scams and charity fraud—verify before you give. If traveling, ask a neighbor to collect mail and keep your home well-lit. Most importantly, report any suspicious activity right away. Together, we can ensure our community stays safe and festive.
Stay smart, stay secure — don’t let the Grinch steal your holiday cheer!
TRAFFIC ENFORCEMENT DETAIL
On October 29th, 2025, the Miami Shores Police Department conducted a multi-jurisdictional traffic enforcement detail with the assistance of partnering agencies from across Miami-Dade County, consisting of: Aventura PD, Bal Harbour PD, Golden Beach PD, Indian Creek PD, Miami-Dade SO, North Miami PD, North Miami Beach PD, Sunny Isles PD, and Surfside PD. This coordinated effort aimed to promote roadway safety, increase compliance with traffic laws, and strengthen partnerships among local law enforcement agencies. This collaboration contributed to a highly productive and effective operation that successfully addressed numerous traffic concerns throughout the area and resulted in:
Chief David Golt
Photo Credit: Jeffrey Saadeh
PARKS & RECREATION DEPARTMENT
For more information on Parks and Recreation programs call: 305-758-8103
NOVEMBER RECAP
INTRAMURAL BASKETBALL PROGRAM
On November 4, the Recreation Department proudly hosted the Barry University basketball team during our Intramural Basketball Program for the annual Skills and Drills Clinic and Meet & Greet. Players and coaches provided hands-on training, shared their expertise, and spent time connecting with participants. It was an inspiring afternoon filled with teamwork, learning, and fun.
LETTERS TO SANTA
Not sure how to send a letter to Santa Claus? We've got you covered! From November 24 to December 15, an express mailbox to the North Pole will be available to drop off your letters to Santa!
Mailbox is located at the Parks & Recreation Community Center.
WINTER WONDERLAND & TREE LIGHTING
December 5th | 6:00pm – 8:30pm | Athletic Fields
Join us for an evening of holiday magic! Enjoy music, inflatables, games, crafts, and plenty of festive fun for the whole family. Come celebrate the season with us!
SIP SHOP CELEBRATE
December 12 | 6:00pm – 9:00pm
Downtown Miami Shores – 96 & 97 Street off of NE 2nd Ave
A Downtown Event Celebrating ore small business community filled with shopping, fun and food! Event includes Kids Craft Fair, Paws & Claus, Ugly Sweater Contest, and more!
CHANUKAH MENORAH LIGHTING
December 14 | 5:00 pm | Village Hall - 10050 NE 2nd Ave
Let's come together to kindle the flames of Chanukah, creating memories that will illuminate our hearts and homes. Chabad of Miami Shores looks forward to sharing the joy of Chanukah with you and your family
SANTA’S EXPRESS
December 17 & 18 | 5:30pm – 8:30pm
Santa and his Elves will deliver a prewrapped present to your home. Gifts must be prewrapped, and dropped off at the MSV Community Center, Space is limited, Santa has many boys and girls to visit so make sure you register early
PARENTS NIGHT OUT
December 19 | 6:00pm – 9:00pm | Ages 5 – 10
Need a little time to finish your holiday shopping? We’ve got you covered! Drop off your kids with us and enjoy a completely worry-free evening. They’ll stay busy with a night full of fun activities and gymnastics!
WINTER BREAK CAMP
December 22 & 23 | December 29 & 30 | 8:30am – 5:00pm
Come enjoy some fun holiday with the Parks and Recreation team; Miami Shores Winter Camp is filled with fun field trips and exciting themed activities.
GYM JAM WINTER BREAK CAMP
December 22, 23, & 26 | December 29, 30 & January 2 | 9am-2pm
Do you have an energetic child that likes to Jump and flip? Then come join us for a fun filled week! In this camp your child will participate in gymnastics activities and fun games. This is an opportunity for any child that is interested in perfecting their gymnastics skills.
LIBRARY NEWS & EVENTS
For more information on Library programs call: 305-758-8107 | Registration Required.
BROCKWAY MEMORIAL LIBRARY
RECENTLY RECEIVED TWO ARCHIVAL DONATIONS OF NOTE:
The Stanley Whitman Tapes
In 2000, journalist Gaspar González sat down with Bal Harbour Shops owner (and longtime Miami Shores resident) Stanley Whitman (1918-2017) for a far-ranging audio interview covering the Whitman family’s impact on Miami Beach (including the development of Española Way), Whitman’s role in the founding of the Village of Bal Harbour, his decades shaping civic life in Greater Miami, and his revolutionary approach to luxury shopping. Spanning almost 100 years of South Florida history, this four-hour interview offers rare insight on an influential pioneer and one of Miami Shores’ most prominent citizens.
Native American Lithographs
Residents and long-time Brockway supporters, John and Jennifer Bolton, recently donated several Seminole Indian lithographs, Audubon prints and sketches by A.E. Backus to the Library’s ongoing archival collection. Backus was an artist from Ft. Pierce whose impressionistic and atmospheric landscape paintings were an inspiration for the “outsider art” of the Florida Highwaymen in the 1950s and 1960s.
Both the lithographs and Backus sketches will be on display throughout the month for public viewing in the Library’s Great Room.
If you have an item that you would like to see placed in the Miami Shores Archives at Brockway Memorial Library, please email the Library’s Archivist, John Bachay, at archives@msvfl.gov for consideration.
We thank Gaspar González, the Whitmans, and the Bolton Family for their generosity!
KIDS PROGRAMS
LIVE PUPPET SHOW & SANTA VISIT Wednesday, December 3 | 10:30am
READ WITH MAJOR TROY Thursday, December 4 | 3:30pm
MIAMI THEATER CENTER FAMILY SERIES WORKSHOP "LA CABEZA DE TOMAS" Tuesday, December 9 | 4pm
FANTASY THEATRE FACTORY'S LIVE SHOW "SCROOGE! A FRACTURED CHRISTMAS CAROL" Thursday, December 11th | 6pm
VILLAGE KIDS BOOK CLUB
Thursday, December 18 | 4pm
SATURDAY STORYTIME
Saturday, December 20 | 10:30am
ADULT PROGRAMS
SENIOR TECH CONNECT
Saturday, December 6 | 10:30am Avoiding Online & Phone Scams
BROCKWAY READING CIRCLE
Monday, December 8th | 6:00 pm
THE LIFE AND TIMES OF LITERARY FAVORITES: VOICES OF VICTORIAN BRITAIN Fridays, December 5 & 12 | 1:30pm
BREATHE LIFE INTO YOUR BRAND WORKSHOP Presented by Orlando Espinos Saturday, December 6th | 10am
BRIGADIER’S HISTORY CLUB Saturday, December 13th | 10:30 am.
LIBRARY NOVEMBER EVENT RECAP
AUTHOR EVENT
On Thursday, October 28th, Brockway Memorial Library was happy to welcome local author, John Philip Davies, for an engaging talk about his novel, Catch Me When You Can.
In this gripping psychological thriller—described as “intensity combined with historical depth”—Davies explores a chilling mystery that spans two murders, a seafaring merchant, and possible links to the infamous 1888 Whitechapel killings. Attendees had the opportunity to hear about his writing process, the historical research behind the story, and to ask questions. This was a great chance to meet a talented writer from our community and discover the inspiration behind his newest release.
PUBLIC WORKS
CONTACT PUBLIC WORKS BEFORE DOING ANY WORK OR PLANTING IN THE SWALE
Swales play an important role in managing storm water runoff and protecting our community’s drainage system. These shallow grassy areas are designed to collect rainwater, filter pollutants, and reduce flooding. Because swales are part of the public drainage infrastructure, any changes made to them—such as digging, planting, or installing structures—can affect how water flows and drains throughout the neighborhood.
Before beginning any work or planting in the swale area in front of or near your property, residents are required to contact the Public Works Department. Public Works staff can provide guidance on approved landscaping, proper materials, and drainage regulations. Unauthorized alterations may block water flow, damage underground utilities, or lead to costly repairs for both homeowners and the community.
Even seemingly small projects—like adding decorative rocks, installing edging, or planting shrubs—can interfere with storm water drainage if not properly planned. The Public Works Department will review proposed work to ensure it complies with local codes and does not disrupt the function of the drainage system.
Residents who wish to enhance their swales with approved vegetation are encouraged to choose native, low-maintenance plants that support water absorption and prevent erosion. Public Works can supply information on suitable plant species and maintenance tips. For everyone’s safety and the protection of public infrastructure, please contact Public Works before beginning any work in the swale. Working together, we can maintain an effective, attractive, and environmentally friendly drainage system for our community.
KEEPING MIAMI SHORES BEATUTIFUL: THE A.C.E. PROGRAM UPDATE
Phase 2 – Compliance (Started November 1, 2025)
On November 1st, the A.C.E. program officially began conducting on-site visits to individual properties throughout the Village to assess the current conditions of the alleyways. During these inspections, team members are carefully reviewing each property to identify any issues that may hinder the safety, cleanliness, or overall maintenance of the shared alley spaces. The goal of this effort is to ensure that alleyways remain accessible, visually appealing, and free of obstructions or code violations.
If a concern or violation is observed during the inspection, the property owner or resident will receive a personalized flyer and report card outlining the specific findings. This document will include a clear description of what was noted, guidance on how to address the issue, and contact information should clarification or assistance be needed. Additionally, a re-inspection date will be scheduled for approximately one month after the initial visit, giving property owners ample time to make the necessary corrections.
This phase of the initiative is expected to continue for roughly three (3) months, as the A.C.E. team systematically works through every neighborhood within the Village. The program’s focus is to encourage collaboration, maintain community standards, and ensure the alleyways remain safe and well-maintained for all residents.
Hi, I’m your monthly newsletter! Sometimes, my journey is delayed by circumstances beyond our control. Even with everyone’s best efforts, unexpected delays can happen. Some months, I may arrive a little later than intended—even after the month has begun. If that’s ever the case, please accept our sincere apologies. The good news? An electronic version of me is always available by the first of each month! Visit msvfl.gov to view it online, or sign up to have it delivered directly to your email inbox. Thanks for reading and for your patience!
