GAZETTE DECEMBER 2018
Message from the Town Manager As 2018 draws to a close, we reflect on this past year’s successes and learnings, as well as set exciting goals for the new year ahead. The holidays are a time for hope and healing. They are also a time to bring friends and family together and to build community. We are proud of the many accomplishments achieved in 2018. Notable achievements include the passing of a plastic straw ban to help reduce plastic pollution and protect marine life, approving Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) programs, and adopting a reduced millage rate for fiscal year 2019 which translates into property tax savings for Surfside residents. With the support of the Mayor, the Town Commission and the Town Administration, a monumental beach re-nourishment project is in the works for 2019. We will provide updates when details become available. Additionally, the Town of Surfside received numerous recognitions from “Best Small Towns for Retirees” by Niche, to “The Most Beautiful Small Town in Every State” in House Beautiful, “Best Beaches in Miami” in Conde Nast Traveler, and Expedia’s “18 Cities that Must be Seen in 2018.” Surfside was also the recipient of two Visit Florida Flagler Awards for outstanding tourism marketing campaigns, the Tree City USA Award, the Public Pensions Standards Award, the Distinguished Budget Presentation Award from the Government Finance Officers Association, the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting (CAFR) Program Award and the Florida Inland Navigation District (FIND) grant. One of our goals for next year is to enhance resident communication. Already, we have revamped TV Channel 93 to include more dynamic and relevant content for viewers. This channel is on its way to becoming another efficient form of communication for residents. We warmly wish all Surfsiders a joyous holiday season and a happy New Year. Looking forward to what the future has in store for our wonderful Town. - Guillermo Olmedillo, Town Manager
Community Garden Volunteer and Mango Contest Winners Honored
At the November Town Commission meeting, Surfside and members of the Town’s community garden honored resident Dr. Freddy Chiche, a volunteer who served as the garden President and spends countless hours keeping the garden healthy. Also acknowledged were Meghan and Stuart Rote, winners of the Mango Contest in July.
(L-R) Commissioner Michael Karukin, Vice Mayor Daniel Gielchinsky, mango contest winners Meghan and Stuart Rote, Community Garden volunteer President Dr. Freddy Chiche, Mayor Daniel Dietch and Commissioner Tina Paul.