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.
In September 2024, Village Staff hosted a Planning and Zoning Community Workshop at Doctors Charter School, where around 100 residents and community members gathered to share their ideas and vision for future development within the CR District. Participants provided valuable feedback through visual preference surveys, which showcased successful built environments from other communities. These surveys helped us understand the types of development residents would like to see in our area. On September 19th, Village Staff presented an executive summary of the collected feedback to the Planning and Zoning Board, which was then made available on the Village’s CR District webpage for public review and input.
In November 2024, a Special Call meeting was held, featuring presentations from both Village Staff and Barry University, where the community continued to engage with the planning process. At the respective December 19th and January 13th special call meeting(s), the Planning and Zoning Board discussed proposed changes to the CR District Code reviewing each line item, reaching a consensus on revisions to the draft ordinance. The Board directed staff to include these proposed amendments to the CR District regulations at the public meeting on January 30, 2025 for further consideration.
We Need to Hear From You!
Your input is crucial! Please visit the CR District webpage at https://www.msvfl.gov/CRZoningDistrict, where you can view all past meetings and workshops, including the executive summary report. You’ll also have the opportunity to share any comments or suggestions. We encourage you to continue sharing your thoughts and to invite your neighbors to participate as well. Staff will be reviewing all feedback in the coming weeks to shape future recommendations. Your voice matters—help us shape the future of our community!
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. Qualifying Period: The period for qualifying as a candidate for the election will commence at 8:30am, Monday, February 3, 2025, and close at 5:00 PM on Friday, February 28, 2025. All interested candidates must file the necessary documents within this timeframe.
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
REMEMBERING SUSAN ACKLEY: A STEWARD OF THE ARTS
Susan Ackley loved the Arts and living in Miami Shores. She volunteered her time in promoting both of these passions by serving on the Fine Arts Commission for over 20 years. During her tenure, she was instrumental in developing the Fine Arts events currently enjoyed by our Village, including sculptures, paintings and mural displays. An advocate for Arts in Public Places, she was involved in acquiring the first art sculpture “Duke” that was displayed on Village Hall Lawn, as seen in the photo to the left. She also chaired the committee that developed the current APP Guidelines which will ensure the future development of art in public places. throughout the Village. She was influential in bringing live music performances to the community; currently, there are three concerts held each spring on the Athletic Fields. Miami Shores Village and the Fine Arts Commission is forever grateful to Susan and all of her amazing work.
This year‘s 2025 Spring Concert Series is dedicated in her honor. Join us to celebrate Susan‘s life and her work and passion for the Arts in the Shores.
HONORING ROY H. HAWKINS: A LEGACY OF LEADERSHIP AND COMMUNITY
On Friday, January 17th, Brockway Memorial Library in partnership with the Miami Shores Country Club held a dedication ceremony to honor the legacy of Roy H. Hawkins, the Vice President of Bessemer Properties who led the effort to have the Village of Miami Shores incorporated by the Florida Legislature in 1932. Hawkins was instrumental in getting the Miami Shores Golf Course built in 1939. His grandson Milton S. Dillon III. was present and gave a short talk about his grandfather. He also donated Mr. Hawkin’s vintage golf putter, now on display in the Country Club's Pro Shop. Mayor George Burch attended and gave the opening remarks for the ceremony.
MSPD WELCOMES OFFICER IVAN LORES
The Miami Shores Police Department is proud to introduce Officer Ivan Lores as the newest member of our team. A graduate of the Miami-Dade School of Justice Basic Law Enforcement Academy, Officer Lores brings with him the discipline and dedication honed during his military service in the United States Army, both on active duty and as a reservist. On December 19th, 2024, Officer Lores was officially sworn in as a Law Enforcement Officer by Chief David Golt. His commitment to service now extends to the Miami Shores Village and our community. Please join us in warmly welcoming Officer Lores and congratulating him on this new chapter of his career.
MIAMI SHORES VILLAGE EXCELS AT RECYCLING
This past fall, Miami Shores Village transitioned to Waste Management as its recycling provider. Since then, Waste Management has conducted studies to assess the contamination levels in our recyclables and found an impressive contamination rate of just 8.93%. A representative from Waste Management praised the Village, saying, “The Village is to be commended for the very low contamination rate!” This achievement reflects the dedication of our residents to proper recycling practices. Thank you, Miami Shores, for helping us lead the way in sustainability!
FEBRUARY EVENTS & HAPPENINGS
Look for a future date to watch the Country charm, Ricky Valido and the Hialeah Hillbillies take the stage. Known for his electrifying performances and heartfelt lyrics, Ricky delivers a show that combines his unique sound with masterful storytelling, captivating fans of all ages. Guests can enjoy lively line dancing that bring everyone to their feet, while a variety of food trucks adds delicious flavors to the festive atmosphere. New Date pending for Ricky Valido Concert.
GET READY TO ENGAGE: CITIZENS ACADEMY COMING THIS MARCH
Are you eager to deepen your understanding of how your local government operates? Do you want to become more involved in shaping the future of your community? Then mark your calendars because this March -April, we are thrilled to announce the launch of our Citizens Academy.
What is the Citizens Academy?
The Citizens Academy is a series of interactive sessions that offer participants a behind-the-scenes look at various aspects of local governance. Through interactions with staff, departmental presentations, discussions, and hands-on activities, attendees will gain a comprehensive understanding of how decisions are made, services are delivered, and resources are allocated within our community. Designed to empower residents with knowledge and insights into the workings of our local government, the Citizens Academy is a unique opportunity to connect, learn and engage.
What will you learn?
During the Citizens Academy sessions, you’ll delve into a wide range of topics, including:
• Local government structure and functions
• Budgeting, procurement, human resources, and financial management
• Public safety and emergency services
• Parks and recreation
• Planning and Development
• Building regulations and the Florida Building Code
• Code enforcement
• Public works and capital projects
• And much more.
Who can participate?
The Citizens Academy is open to all residents who are passionate about making a positive impact in our community. Whether you are a longtime resident or new to the area, whether you are a student, a parent, a professional, or a retiree, everyone is welcome to join us for this enriching experience.
Why participate?
By participating in the Citizens Academy, you will:
• Gain a deeper understanding of how local government works
• Connect with fellow community members and local leaders
• Learn about opportunities to get involved and make a difference
• Become an informed and engaged citizen advocate
How to get involved
The Citizens Academy will take place beginning in March and will last approximately 8 weeks. Participation is free, but space will be limited. Registration will begin soon, so reserve your spot early. There will be more information in the next newsletter, social media, and on our website, www.msvfl.gov in the weeks ahead.
We are excited that Vice Mayor Valinsky has sponsored this initiative. Do not miss this exciting opportunity to become a more informed citizen. Let’s work together to build a stronger, more vibrant community for all.
VULNERABILITY STUDY UPDATE
HOW IS MIAMI SHORES VULNERABLE TO STORMS AND HURRICANES?
Miami Shores Village is making significant strides toward sustainability and resilience, and a recent Resilient Florida Grant awarded by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection enabled the Village to identify and quantify its infrastructure vulnerabilities. This crucial initiative highlights the Village’s commitment to preparing for the future and ensuring a sustainable environment for its residents. With the grant funding, the Village contracted Coastal Risk Consultants to conduct an update to our 2018 Vulnerability Study. This study is a comprehensive assessment that identifies areas at risk from environmental hazards, such as flooding, hurricanes, sea-level rise, and extreme weather events. Given Miami Shores' close connection to its coastal geography, the updated study is essential for effectively mitigating risks and enhancing resilience. The 2018 Vulnerability study provided a foundational understanding of the risks facing Miami Shores, and the updated report has incorporated the latest data, predictive models, and strategies to address vulnerabilities with greater accuracy and comprehensiveness. The consultants have prepared a draft of the final report for Village residents and staff to review through a community workshop. Residents are encouraged to participate in the upcoming workshop scheduled for February 10, 2025, at 6:00 PM at 9900 NE 2nd Avenue, Miami Shores, FL.
Coastal Risk will explain the project scope during the workshop and gather feedback and personal experiences regarding flooding from as many residents as possible. Specific measures will be identified based on the updated vulnerability study findings.
As you plan to attend, please consider: • Any flooding incidents in the last two years. • When these floods occurred. • How flooding impacted your travel. • Other challenges you faced due to flooding. Your input is vital in shaping a strong and resilient Miami Shores!
• Adopted an Ordinance, amending Chapter 5, “Animals,” Article II., “dogs and cats” to update the language “under control” or “not under control” to state both. The word “Or” changes to “And”. Also to make clear that a dog has to be on a leash and under certain scenarios when a dog does not have to be on a leash, which would be in a designated area and on the property owner’s property or if a dog owner has consent from some other property owner. The language currently states anywhere on public property, a dog has to be on a leash.
• Adopted an Ordinance on second reading, amending Chapter 18, “Personnel,” Article Iv, “Police Officers’ Retirement System,” Amending Section 18-107, “Deferred Retirement Option Plan.
• Adopted an Ordinance on second reading, amending Chapter 5, “animals,” Article II., “dogs and cats” to update regulations governing leash and control requirements for dogs to enhance public safety and property protections.
• Approved a Resolution, approving and authorizing the Village Manager to execute an agreement with Stantec Consulting Services, Inc. to complete a waste rate study in an amount not to exceed $34,850, piggybacking Pinellas County, Florida request for proposal #22-0547-P.
• Approved a Resolution, approving a non-exclusive license agreement for parking between Miami Shores Village and Miami Shores Presbyterian Church.
• Approved a Resolution, approving the memorandum of understanding between Miami Shores Village and the greater Miami Shores Fraternal Order of Police, Lodge #63, Inc., regarding the Deferred Retirement Option Plan (DROP).
• Directed the Village Manager to work with National Golf Foundation on an alternative conceptual plan for the Miami Shores Country Club and Golf Course.
• Appointed Councilmember Neil Cantor to serve as a non-voting member on the Sustainability and Resiliency Committee.
VILLAGE UPDATES
NEIGHBORHOOD SERVICES
HOLIDAY ROAD: RV RULES TO KEEP YOU CRUISIN’ SMOOTHLY IN MSV
As many of you may have taken advantage of the holiday season for travel—possibly using RVs for their convenience, affordability, and versatility—we’d like to provide some important reminders from the Village Code of Ordinances regarding rules and regulations for Recreational Vehicles (RVs) and Park Trailers within the Village upon your return.
Recreational
Vehicle and Park Trailer Guidelines
To maintain the beauty and harmony of our community, Miami Shores Village has specific rules regarding the storage, parking, and use of RVs, campers, and house trailers per Section 3.125(B). Please review the following:
1. Storage and Parking Restrictions
House cars, camp cars, campers, and house trailers—or any vehicle designed or adapted for human habitation—may not be stored or parked on public or private property within the Village limits.
2. Permitted Storage Options
These vehicles may only be kept if:
• They are fully enclosed within a garage.
• They are parked in the backyard and
• meet the following size restrictions:
▪ Less than 20 feet in length.
▪ 10 feet or less in height.
3. Prohibited Use
Under no circumstances may any RV, camper, or similar vehicle be used as living or sleeping quarters within the Village limits, regardless of zoning.
By adhering to these guidelines, we can ensure that our community remains a clean, safe, and pleasant place for everyone. If you have any questions or need further clarification regarding these regulations, please feel free to reach out to the Neighborhood Services Department at 305-762-4862.
BUILDING DEPARTMENT
WHY PERMITS ARE NECESSARY?
The reason for permits:
Obtaining a building permit is an essential step in ensuring the success and safety of your construction project. A permit is a legal document granting you authorization to begin construction at a specific location within a designated timeframe, following village-approved plans and specifications.
Building permits are designed to:
• Verify that your construction plans and materials comply with the most current Florida Building Code requirements and other relevant laws.
• Promote public safety, health, and general welfare by ensuring structural integrity, proper sanitation, adequate lighting and ventilation, energy efficiency, and effective fire prevention measures.
• Minimize risks to life and property by addressing hazards associated with the built environment.
• Enhance the safety of firefighters and emergency responders during emergency situations.
If you have any questions about your permit needs, feel free to contact us at building@msvfl.gov.
SUPERHERO MOTHER EARTH COMING TO AN ALLEY NEAR YOU
In a bold effort to promote community engagement and environmental responsibility, Miami Shores Village is launching the "Alley Cleanup Experience (ACE)," inspired by the superhero Mother Earth. Representing nature’s power, resilience, and nurturing spirit, Mother Earth is a symbol of hope and action, leading our alley cleanup initiative by urging residents to join her in restoring beauty to local alleys.
This program was the initiative of the Village Manager, Esmond Scott in conjunction with three Village Departments: Neighborhood Services, Public Works and Police. The initiative is a symbol of hope and action for a sustainable and resilient community. It aims to tackle neglected alleyways, transforming them into clean, welcoming spaces. Residents are encouraged to form teams, don gloves, and channel their inner superheroes as they clear debris and trim landscaping creating an alleyway that reflects the neighborhood's pride. “Just as Mother Earth protects and nurtures us, it’s our turn to give back to her,” said Public Works Director, Delroy Peters.
Won’t you be a hero too? Be our ACE – Watch for ways you can participate in our ACE initiative and connect with neighbors while making a tangible impact including workshops hosted by our Sustainability and Resiliency Board in the coming months. Let’s unite as heroes for our Village - because every small action leads to a cleaner, greener future.
A E lleyway leanup xperience C
B) NO VEGETATION OF ANY KIND - TREES, SHRUBS, VINES TO EXTEND INTO ALLEY ROW Sec. 10-10, Sec. 537
A) LIMBS AND BRANCHES MUST BE A MINIMUM OF 6FT FROM SERVICE LINES Sec. 8-23
C) PLANTING OF TREES, SHRUB, VINES IN ALLEYWAY (PUBLIC ROW) IS PROHIBITED Sec. 20-1 & Sec. 10-10
E) CONTAINER IN GOOD CONDITION, ALLEY CLEAR, NO RAW GARBAGE ON THE GROUND Sec. 9-2
F) NO OBSTRUCTION OF ALLEYWAY BY VEGETATION, DEBRIS, VEHICLES OR TRASH Sec. 20-19
D) ALL LEAVES MUST BE BAGGED Sec. 9-2
This initiative is a collaborative effort between our Neighborhood Services, Public Works, and Police Departments, along with you, our residents, to keep “The Village Beautiful.” For any questions, please contact the Neighborhood Services Department at 305-762-4862. Don’t forget to check the other side for important explanations!
The Village takes great pride in providing excellent municipal services to our Residents. In an effort to maximize these services, it is critical to maintain our alleys free of any obstructions.
The alleys are used by our:
• Residents
• Public Works Department
• Solid Waste Services
• Emergency Responders
• Utility Companies (FPL, Cable Companies and Water & Sewer)
Please see below for a more comprehensive description for each identified item on the diagram.
A. Maintain Clear Utility Lines: Keep vegetation at least 6 feet away from utility lines to help restore power and utility services more efficiently after storm-related outages. Contact FPL or a certified arborist experienced in clearing vegetation near utility lines for assistance.
B. Trim Alley Vegetation: Ensure that branches, trees, hedges, or any other vegetation extending into the alley from private property are trimmed back to your property line. Maintain a minimum 15-foot vertical clearance to allow safe passage for Village service vehicles like garbage trucks and frontend loaders.
C. Alley Right-of-Way Must Stay Clear: While hedges provide privacy, they must be planted within your property boundaries to prevent obstructing alleyways. Planting or landscaping is strictly prohibited in the alley right-of-way (ROW), which extends from your property line to the edge of the alley roadway.
D. Bag Loose Leaves and Grass Clippings: Avoid leaving loose leaves or grass clippings in alleys, as they can create debris and obstruct stormwater drains. Bag leaves and clippings, ensuring each bag does not exceed 50 pounds, to keep alleys clean and accessible.
E. Proper Garbage Disposal: All garbage must be bagged and placed inside proper waste receptacles in the required waste material removal area with secure lids to prevent access by pests and avoid waterlogging. Raw garbage should never be left on the ground. Proper disposal helps maintain cleanliness and prevents unsightly messes.
F. Keep Alleys Obstruction-Free: Alleys must remain clear at all times. Do not park vehicles or place bulk waste in the alleyway or ROW Place bulk waste off the alley road to ensure safe access for residents and service vehicles. If bulk waste exceeds 3 cubic yards, contact the Public Works Department at 305-795-2210 to arrange an assessment.
PARKS & RECREATION DEPARTMENT
For more information on Parks and Recreation programs call: 305-758-8103
JANUARY RECAP
CONGRATULATIONS TO BREFFNI ACADEMY
We’re thrilled to announce that Breffni Academy of Irish Dance has been honored as the Gold Winner in the Miami-Dade Favorites awards, presented by the Miami Herald! This incredible recognition highlights the dedication and talent within our community.
FITNESS IN THE PARK
1st and 3rd Saturday of the month (January – May) | 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.
DIVE INTO FEBRUARY: LEARN TO SWIM CLASSES STARTING
The Aquatic Center is thrilled to announce that the Learn to Swim classes resume this month. Whether you're a complete beginner or looking to refine your swimming skills, We have programs tailored for all ages and levels.
BREFFNI ACADEMY OF IRISH DANCE
Every Tuesday and Thursday
Miami Shores Community Center
PROGRAMS
• BABY BEATS – TODDLER & ME
Ages: 18 Months - 3Yrs | Fridays
This music class lets the whole family learn music and movement together! Little ones will discover the magic of music; our program is designed to introduce toddlers to the wonders of rhythm, melody, and harmony in a fun and engaging environment.
• I LOVE ART / PORTFOLIO DEVELOPMENT
Ages: 6-12 | Monday & Thursdays
Children will learn techniques to develop drawing skills using pencil, charcoal, pen, acrylics, and watercolor. Participants will create 3D sculptures using recyclable materials and incorporate them into “Elements of Art”. Classes taught by Adriana Sandoval with more than 20 years of experience and over 50 students accepted into ART schools.
Join us for yoga classes focused in alignment helping to achieve balance between body, mind and breath. A regular Iyengar Yoga practice can help you to: improve physical and psychological health, build strength, increase flexibility, boost energy levels, decrease stress and anxiety, reduce chronic pain, improve posture, protect from injuries, improve breathing and much more.
• BELLY DANCE
Active Adults | Thursdays & Saturday
Look good and Feel great through this wonderful ancient dance. Egyptian, Turkish, and Lebanese style of dance both classic and contemporary; various styles of music are used. These top quality classes are geared from beginner to professional level; held at the Miami Shores Community Center. Taught by award winning, professional dance instructors. Celebrating over 40 years of belly dance classes. Great exercise and fun for all ages.
LIBRARY NEWS & EVENTS
For more information on Library programs call: 305-758-8107 | Registration Required.
JANUARY LIBRARY RECAP
Brockway Memorial Library was the host for a presentation on Historic Preservation efforts in Opa Locka by Alex Van Mecl on Thursday, January 16th. Van Mecl provided the historical background about the city being founded by Glen Curtiss ,an aviator, who also developed Miami Springs and Hialeah.He noted that the city’s unique Arabic and Moorish was designed by Bernhardt Mueller. Alex is a passionate preservationist who is conducts walking and bicycle tours of Opa Locka and is bringing local and national awareness to the city’s architecture. Moreover, he has developed preservation guidelines, a heritage trail and museum for the city of Opa Locka. MSV is proud to partner with our neighboring preservationists!
GIRL SCOUTS VISIT BROCKWAY LIBRARY
Brockway Memorial Library hosted a Reference Resources for Kids Workshop for Girl Scout Troop 2105 on January 11, 2025. The workshop, presented by Youth Services Librarian Brenda Holsing, taught key concepts of library usage and highlighted the available resource materials both at the library and online.
The Girl Scouts were learning about Italy, a country that they will represent at a Girl Scout event. The participants, led by troop leader Liza Ayuso, also worked on a simple pizza craft to use as a giveaway to trade with other troops, an informational poster, and a Tarantella Italian dance.
KIDS PROGRAMS
READ WITH MAJOR TROY
Thursday, February 6 | 3:30pm
FROST MUSEUM OF SCIENCE
Thursday, February 13 | 4pm
STORYWALK STORYTIME
Saturday, February 15 | 10:30am
LIVE PUPPET SHOW
Wednesday, February 5 | 4pm
VALENTINE’S MUSCIAL STORYTIME
Friday, February 14 | 10:30am
VILLAGE KIDS BOOK CLUB
Thursday, February 20 | 4pm
MOCA AT THE LIBRARY
Tuesdays Starting Feb 4 | 3:30pm
ADULT PROGRAMS
SENIOR TECH CONNECT
Saturday, February 1 | 10:30am
PROPAGATION WORKSHOP
Saturday, February 8 | 10:00am
SOUND BATH MEDITATION
Thursday, February 27 | 6:30pm
OLLI CLASSES: THE OTTOMAN EMPIRE
Thursday, February 13 | 1:30pm
MIAMI & WORLD WAR II
Thursday, February 13 | 6:15pm
WOMENS HEALTH LECTURE
Monday, February 24 | 6:00pm
PUBLIC WORKS
MIAMI SHORES VILLAGE ENHANCES TREE CANOPY WITH NEAT STREETS GRANT
Miami Shores Village continues its dedication to sustainability and community beautification through its annual participation in the Neat Streets Miami Tree Matching Grant program. This initiative, spearheaded by Neat Streets Miami, aims to enhance tree canopy coverage across Miami-Dade County, improving air quality, mitigating urban heat, and creating more attractive neighborhoods.
For the current year, Miami Shores Village was awarded the coveted grant, enabling the planting of over 100 new trees throughout the community. Carefully selected native and drought-tolerant species such as live oaks, gumbo limbo, and mahogany are being added to streets, parks, and public spaces. These trees not only contribute to the Village’s charm but also bolster environmental resilience by providing shade and reducing storm water runoff.
The program aligns with Miami Shores Village’s long-term vision of preserving its lush, green character while addressing climate challenges. Residents are actively involved, participating in community planting days and tree-care workshops to ensure the long-term success of this effort. The grant also serves as an educational opportunity, promoting awareness about the importance of tree preservation and urban ecology.
Thanks to this yearly grant, Miami Shores Village continues to set an example for other municipalities, showcasing how local initiatives can foster sustainability, environmental stewardship, and community pride. With every tree planted, the Village takes another step toward a greener, more beautiful future for all its residents.
POLICE DEPARTMENT
SWIFT ACTION LEADS TO ARREST IN AMAZON VAN CARJACKING
On December 18th, 2024, an Amazon driver was making deliveries near 92nd Street and NE 10th Court in Miami Shores when he was approached by a male suspect who struck him in the face. The suspect stole the driver’s keys, took the Amazon delivery van filled with packages, and fled southbound on Biscayne Boulevard.Thanks to Amazon's real-time tracking, Miami Shores Police Department (MSPD), along with Miami-Dade and City of Miami Police Departments, quickly coordinated efforts to locate the stolen van. A short time later, City of Miami officers found the van near 23rd Street and NE 2nd Court. The suspect, identified as Hassan Rkein, was apprehended without incident, and the van, along with all its contents, was recovered.
The Amazon driver sustained minor injuries in the incident. Rkein has been charged with carjacking and battery. We commend the swift and coordinated efforts of MSPD Officers Godwin, Rayburn, and Morales, Detectives Kubicek and Mauda, and our partner agencies for ensuring a safe and successful resolution to this case.
MSPD’S CRIME REDUCTION UNIT DELIVERS RESULTS
From November 21, 2024, to January 3, 2025, the Miami Shores Police Department’s Crime Reduction Unit (CRU) carried out targeted enforcement operations to enhance public safety and address criminal activity. The dedicated team—comprised of Officers Calvin Rayburn, Lazaro Morales, Noel Allen, and Leimanuel Lemus—achieved significant results during this operational period. The CRU handled 58 cases, resulting in 13 arrests and 27 uniform traffic citations. Notable achievements included the arrest of a suspect involved in an armed carjacking and the apprehension of two individuals responsible for residential burglaries. Additionally, the unit’s surveillance efforts led to the identification of three suspected "Bank Juggers," successfully preventing a potential felony crime.These accomplishments underscore the effectiveness of CRU's focused approach in reducing crime and ensuring the safety of our community.