August represents the end to summer in Surfside. “When summer gathers up her robes of glory, and, like a dream, glides away.” – Sarah Helen Whitman.
This month I want to focus on the Four P s – Parks , Parking , Public Safety, and Pedestrians. Read on to learn more.
On August 1, we recognize International Beer Day! Enjoy a cold one if you are over 21! On August 23, we celebrate National Cuban Sandwich Day! I’m looking forward to mine. August is also known as Family Fun Month so take some time to enjoy your family at a Surfside Park, at one of our extraordinary eating establishments, and/or at our beautiful and tranquil beaches.
Speaking of Surfside’s 96th ST Park, please take advantage of our new kayak and paddleboard kiosk rental station offered by PADL. Surfside has added a new way to have fun on the water by simply renting a kayak or paddleboard, walking it down our kayak launch, and dropping it into the bay and off you go. Be sure to register on the PADL App, which is available in your App Store. No more having to drag your own kayak or paddleboard from your home to the beach or bay when you can simply hop on your bike, rent a Citi Bike from one of our neighborhood kiosks, or just walk on over to the Park and rent a watercraft to have some summer fun on the water. Enjoy this new option for our Town.
While downloading the new PADL App, please also be sure to load the new Surfside Parks & Recreation App . This is your new one stop shop for all of what is available from our Town’s Parks & Recreation Department. Soon you will be able to renew your membership online, book a swim lap lane, book a tennis court and so much more. Check out the App details on page 14.
Now let’s talk about Parking in Surfside. For those residing in our Residential District west of Harding Avenue, you have likely seen the new 1 Hour Pay Parking and No Parking signs between Harding and Carlyle Avenues. These new restrictions are not for Surfside Residents and their guests. Instead, these new restrictions apply to all others. We need to keep cars from parking between Abbott and Harding to allow for easy ingress and egress on and off Harding Avenue. This will help for public safety purposes. The one-hour parking restriction is designed to limit the time the public can park in front of our private homes to enable our residents and their guests to park when extra parking is needed off private property. I expect these new restrictions to enhance the residential parking experience for all of us. Let me know how you like it or not.
Now let’s talk about traffic calming in the Residential District. The Commission authorized me to begin constructing speed tables and roundabouts throughout the neighborhood, as authorized by Miami-Dade County. To that end, I have commissioned a contractor to do just that. Beginning this month, you will see these installed on your local streets. It is fair to assume that where you once saw those unsightly rubber and broken speed humps, which I had removed, you will soon see a beautiful concrete speed table with pavers. Thank you to our tremendous Public Works team for all of your help getting this done. I truly hope you like this new, fresh look on our streets that will slow down the vehicles choosing to cut through our neighborhood streets to avoid A1A.
Now let’s talk about Policing in Surfside. Our Officers are doing their jobs by helping to keep us safe and prevent the nuisance property crimes. I hope you have noticed the increased patrolling throughout the neighborhood, the increased traffic stops leading to arrests of unlicensed drivers, and the vigilance by undercover police officers who are on the lookout for those who come into our Town looking for a quick score only to find out how crime does not pay when done in Surfside. Thank you to Chief Press and the Surfside PD for making a difference to our Town and its residents. We truly appreciate you!
Let me close by focusing on our Downtown Business District. You likely have seen my new push to restart the Downtown Visioning Taskforce, which is under my direction to guide the revitalization and enhancement of Harding Avenue between 94 to 96 Street. I’m calling on volunteers, who can be residents, business owners, or hotel representatives, to help me improve the District. I have begun the work already by engaging a sandblasting company to remove the fading paint from our sidewalks. This will provide a fresh look to Harding Avenue. Now I need your great ideas to further improve our District so residents and tourists alike will Visit Surfside again and again.
Finally, please continue to tune in to “Mondays with the Manager” and follow me on Instagram @surfsideflorida.
MESSAGE FROM THE CHIEF OF POLICE CHARLES R. PRESS
I am proud to say that our Traffic Unit has been working extremely hard at reducing the number of violators on our roadways. Since its inception on April 28 of this year, the three-person unit has written a staggering 842 uniform traffic citations and 206 traffic warnings. Our goal is to change driving behavior and enhance visibility and public safety.
Officers have enhanced their community policing initiatives as we move from a Community Enhancement Unit to a department-wide initiative. Beginning this month, we will engage the Condo Managers Association in hurricane preparedness and the banking community in safety and security protocols. I also envision holding street gatherings throughout the Town to better connect with our residents.
Commission Corner
CHARLES W. BURKETT MAYOR
The following is an example of how your current elected officials are setting our Town up for success… long into the future:
You may have seen the manager’s video related to the new project just north of Town Hall on Collins Avenue. This is the project located on the one-block long property facing Collins with the beautiful little historic building upon it.
This project, in a former version, was approved by the last group in office. I will not go into all the ways the project was not great for Surfside, but suffice to say, the Danzinger, Rose, Landsman trio gave away the farm to developers who had contributed financially in a huge way to ensure their reelection. Need I say more?
Once we took over, our Commission asked me to work with the developer to rework the project so that the project was good for Surfside, and the developer. That is exactly what I did.
With amazing cooperation from the developer, Charles Kushner, the project was reworked.
It is now smaller, more beautiful, and more compatible to our amazing one-of-a kind hamlet.
But there is more, as part of our renegotiated deal, Surfside will basically own two beautiful units in the building forever – or for as long as the building exists, at zero cost to our Town. And if it ceases to exist, Surfside will be paid the value of those units at that time of any sale or removal so it can buy replacements.
Why is possessing two beautiful units, across the street from Town Hall and the ocean a good thing for our Town? Because it allows our Town to now attract the very best talent from anywhere in the country to potentially work for us.
Imagine in the future if the Town is looking for a great Town Manager, Police Chief or other key employee. Most employees want to know what the employer has to offer. Well, in addition to working for one of the most amazing groups of residents in an unparalleled location, that employee might be offered one of our two gorgeous units as part of the package.
Imagine the ad: Come work for Surfside AND live in one of our gorgeous apartments across the street from your job and the ocean. Get a great job and live an unparalleled lifestyle - that would be hard for any potential employee to resist!
My guess is that we would be overwhelmed with applications of hugely qualified applicants, and end up with someone who not only appreciates the job, but who would never want to leave.
The deal your elected officials made on this building is emblematic of all the deals we have made on other projects for the extreme benefit of our Town and its residents.
This tiny slice of what your current elected officials (every one of us) are doing demonstrates the mindset of the people you elected.
That mindset is a singular focus on the long-term wellbeing of our residents, period.
A mindset sea change which I think everyone voted for, and a result, an unchangeable mindset that will continue to be delivered to our residents, so that residents no longer have to worry that their interests are being sold out. Something they never should have had to worry about in the first place.
TINA PAUL VICE MAYOR
As we find ourselves in the heart of summer, it is the perfect time to enjoy our beautiful beach and soak up the sunshine!
Last month, Chief Press led an informative discussion on hurricane season preparedness during the Pizza with the Police event. It is crucial for every resident to plan ahead, not only to protect their own property but also to prevent any unintended impact on neighbors. While we hope to avoid bad storms this season, staying ready and informed is key.
I’d like to share some important resources I recently learned about at the Coastal Mayors Executive Session, a local meeting with Miami-Dade municipal leaders, resiliency experts, and partner organizations.
For homeowners, especially those impacted by flooding, Elevate Florida is a first-of-its-kind, statewide residential mitigation program led by the Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM). Its goal is to protect homes and reduce damage from disasters like hurricanes and floods. Eligible projects include:
Structure Elevation – Physically raising an existing structure using various methods. Mitigation Reconstruction – Rebuilding homes to meet higher resilience standards. Structure Acquisition – Buying out properties in high-risk areas.
While I personally favor structure elevation, the application portal is currently closed due to overwhelming demand. However, you can still register and stay updated for when funding becomes available again. This program provides at least 75% federal grant funding for eligible projects. Learn more at the Elevate Florida Portal, or contact: ResidentialMitigation@em.myflorida.com.
For businesses, the Florida Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan Program offers short-term, zero-interest working capital loans to help cover expenses while awaiting insurance claims or other funding.
Additionally, Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) is available for workers and self-employed individuals who lose income due to a disaster and aren’t eligible for standard unemployment benefits. Call 1-833-352-7759 for assistance.
I sincerely hope you never need to use these resources, though I encourage exploring the Elevate Florida program when it reopens. It could be a great opportunity for long-term homeowner protection. Wishing you all a safe and enjoyable summer!
Commission Corner
RUBEN A. COTO COMMISSIONER
I want to take a moment to extend my heartfelt congratulations to our Youth Council for the remarkable work they accomplished this year. Their dedication inspires us all, and I eagerly anticipate the exciting projects they will undertake next year! It’s truly uplifting to see our bright young minds engaging in government and making a genuine impact. These individuals are our future leaders, and we couldn’t be prouder of them.
Our July meeting was a bit emotional as our Commission honored Tim Milian upon his retirement. Tim has been a steadfast pillar of our community, and we wish him and his family nothing but the best in this new chapter of their lives.
I’m pleased to share that construction on the Champlain Tower Memorial is ready to move forward in the coming months. Additionally, I remain hopeful that the Abbott Avenue flood
NELLY VELASQUEZ COMMISSIONER
Many of you have recently received political flyers filled with inflammatory language, falsehoods, and unprofessional caricatures targeting your current Town Commission. These materials, distributed by a Political Action Committee (PAC) supporting Shlomo Danzinger and companies campaign are not only misleading but also disrespectful to the democratic process and to our community as a whole.
project will resume soon, as our Town Manager diligently works to address the recent challenges with permitting and DERM.
Unfortunately, once again the rumors and lies are emerging about the Town’s staff and commission. Anonymous posts, emails, and even hit pieces are being mailed out, trying to disrupt progress, create chaos, slow down projects, and just simply be hurtful and insulting. The reality is that our Commission and staff are well known to most residents, and they understand that we are dedicated to serving our Town with integrity. As I always say, “follow the money.” Unfortunately and sadly a few greedy players would stoop to this level. I encourage these individuals to use the time and energy spent spreading negativity to instead work together for the betterment of our Town.
It is particularly disheartening to see these flyers defame former Town Manager Andrew Hyatt with unfounded claims that he was obstructing Commission initiatives. Mr. Hyatt served this Town with professionalism and integrity, and to diminish his contributions with baseless accusations is not only unfair, but
GERARDO VILDOSTEGUI COMMISSIONER
In my opening remarks at the June Commission meeting, and then again in last month’s Gazette column, I was happy to share some good news about a project I’ve been working on for several months: The Town of Surfside has received a grant, through the Florida Wildflower Foundation’s “Viva Florida” grant program, to support the purchase of Florida native plants for a demonstration garden on corner of 92nd Street and Bay Drive. I wrote the application for that grant back in March, and now, as I write this column in mid-July, I’m busy making preparations so that, sometime in August, those plants will finally be in the ground, ready to take advantage of the season’s heavy rains.
We are incredibly fortunate to live in such a vibrant Town! Every voice is valuable, and I encourage each of you to participate actively. Your insights are crucial as we strive to enhance our community together.
Let us continue to support one another. May God bless you, and may God bless our Town and our nation.
deeply irresponsible. Let us also not forget the past: under former Mayor Shlomo Danzinger, Surfside experienced an alarming lack of transparency and accountability. Many residents recall his style of leadership as controlling, abusive and divisive. Projects critical to our Town’s progress—such as the 96th Street Park, the storm drainage improvements, and the undergrounding of power lines—were delayed or neglected under Danzinger’s watch. In fact, some of these initiatives were stalled for two years, costing our Town both time and valuable resources.
Now, as our current Commission works to move these efforts forward and restore confidence in our Town government, this PAC seeks to derail that progress with smear campaigns and political theater.
Surfside deserves thoughtful leadership and honest dialogue— not propaganda. We encourage all residents to seek facts, ask questions, and engage in constructive civic participation. Let’s continue building a better Surfside, together.
Native plants are a big interest of mine, but I recognize that they’re a niche—You might even say, nerdy—topic. Ultimately, I hope that the new garden will speak for itself and make the case for native plants far better than I can here, with mere words. But, in the meantime, until the new plantings take root, I’m hoping to use this month’s column to build interest in a project that I’m certain will beautify and enrich our Town.
According to the Florida Native Plant Society, a plant is a “Florida native” if it belongs to a species “occurring within the state boundaries prior to European contact.” And for Surfside’s new garden, we’ll be bringing in plants that meet an even higher standard: They’ll belong to species that, according to the Institute for Regional Conservation’s “Natives for Your Neighborhood” database, were found over 500 years ago in what is today the 33154 ZIP Code. Continued in page 6.
News From Town Hall
Continued from page 5. Bringing these plants to Surfside isn’t just about history; it’s more than just a kind of horticultural cosplay, more than just Ren Faire for plants. The reason why planting natives is so important is that they support an entire ecosystem that co-evolved with these plants over thousands and thousands of years. A plant like the “coontie palm” (Zamia integrifolia), for example, is the only plant that can feed the caterpillars of the rare, and dazzlingly beautiful, Atala butterfly. I have some coonties planted at my house, and this summer my yard is full of these wondrous Atalas, with their distinctive coloring of black, orange, and electric blue. I can’t wait for those butterflies to make their way to the new public garden, where residents and
passersby will be able to marvel at them, too.
Once the new garden is in place, I hope to work with the Town Manager and the Commission on some events and activities to introduce our residents to this new amenity. In the meantime, if you’d like to learn more about this topic, I recommend the website of Bound by Beauty, a local non-profit based in Miami Shores that has brought a fantastic native-plant garden to that city’s Brockway Library. I also recommend the book Nature’s Best Hope by Douglas W. Tallamy, one of the intellectual leaders of the native-plant movement. And I hope to see you at the new garden in August!
JULY COMMISSION MEETING ACCOMPLISHMENTS
• Resolution approving United States Bicycle Route 1 through Town.
• Resolution approving an agreement with Blue Digital Corp for Electronic Document Imaging and Storage Services.
• Resolution relating to solid waste management services, including collection, disposal, and recycling of residential solid waste in the Town. Establishing the estimated assessment rate for solid waste service assessments against assessed property in own for the fiscal year beginning October 1, 2025.
• Resolution approving a temporary work easement agreement between the Town of Surfside and the Florida Inland Navigation District regarding the construction of the intracoastal waterway project.
SURFSIDE HONORS TIM MILIAN FOR 21 YEARS OF DEDICATED SERVICE TO COMMUNITY
The Town of Surfside Commission has recognized longtime Parks and Recreation Director Tim Milian for more than two decades of public service. A proclamation presented at the July 8 Commission meeting honored Milian’s 21-year legacy of leadership, innovation and dedication to the community he helped shape.
Hired in July 2004, Milian quickly became a cornerstone of the department, guiding the expansion of programs for children, adults and seniors. His achievements include overseeing major Community Center renovations, launching beloved events like Family Fun Day, Winter Wonderland and the Fourth of July Spectacular, and leading the creation of Surfside’s first After School Program in 2014.
“Tim has been the heart of Surfside recreation,” said Town Manager Mark Blumstein. “His work brought joy to families and strengthened our community bonds.”
During the 2008–2011 Community Center renovation, he kept programs running from portable trailers. He showed resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic, swiftly pivoting operations, and stepped up following the Champlain Towers South tragedy, working on-site for weeks to support emergency response efforts.
As Milian steps into retirement, Surfside honors a career defined by compassion, integrity and lasting impact.
“Thank you, Tim, for helping us build not just a Parks and Recreation Department, but a true community,” said Blumstein.
News From Town Hall
FOREVER IN OUR HEARTS: TOWN HOSTS ANNUAL REMEMBRANCE EVENTS
On Tuesday, June 24, the Town of Surfside held its annual events to mark the fourth anniversary of the Champlain Towers South building collapse of June 24, 2021.
A Lighting of the Torch was held at 1:22 a.m., the exact time of the collapse, with first responders from Miami-Dade Fire Rescue (MDFR) including Fire Chief Raied ‘Ray’ Jadallah and Firefighter Maggie Castro who led rescue and recovery efforts. After the Remembrance Torch was lit, the names of the 98 souls were read aloud in the presence of family members and friends who gathered for the solemn occasion.
Earlier that day, in a heartfelt act of solidarity, Town staff came together to support family members Pablo Langsfeld, Martin Langesfeld and Raquel Oliveira in pinning 98 flowers to the building’s fence—each one a tribute to a life lost. With quiet compassion and steady hands, staff members completed the activity prior to the Lighting of the Torch.
The daytime Remembrance Ceremony featured a large American Flag displayed by fire trucks which flew poignantly over across from the site in addition to a Flyover from Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office Aviation Unit.
Surfside Mayor Charles W. Burkett led the ceremony on behalf of the Town and thanked all the agencies and partners who have offered support in the wake of the collapse. The program also featured Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava, as well as remarks from family members of the 98 deceased, and survivors of the building. Fire Chief Ray Jadallah and members of the MDFR led the Reading of the Names.
Vice Mayor Tina Paul and Commissioners Ruben Coto and Gerardo Vildostegui were also in attendance. Community faith leaders Father Sosa of St. Joseph Catholic Parish and Rabbi Zalman Lipskar of The Shul provided the Invocation and Benediction.
The Ceremony was held on the 100 block of 88th Street – the future site of the Memorial. A new sign announcing the project was erected adjacent to the building site. The Town continues to work closely with the Memorial Committee and project partners to finalize the design. On July 20 at 8:03 p.m., the Town extinguished the Symbolic Remembrance Torch.
News From Town Hall
YOUTH COUNCIL EVENT SPARKS ENVIRONMENTAL ACTION AND EQUITY DIALOGUE IN SURFSIDE
The Surfside Youth Council hosted “Seeds of Change” on June 21, bringing together local changemakers, students and residents for a morning of environmental conversation, creative expression and community engagement. Vice Mayor Paul and Commissioner Vildostegui were also in attendance, showing their support for youth-led environmental initiatives.
Panelists Daniel Dietch, Theresa Pinto and Karly Pulido led a discussion on climate resilience and the power of local leadership, followed by a hands-on workshop with genCLEO that encouraged attendees to translate ideas into action.
The event concluded with an art activity led by Plastic Fisherman and a keynote address by State Sen. Shevrin Jones, who spoke about environmental equity and civic participation. The Youth Council thanks all who participated in helping plant the seeds for a greener and more just future in Surfside.
FLAMINGO GARDEN PARK AWARDED 2025 VIVA FLORIDA GRANT TO EXPAND NATIVE LANDSCAPING
The Florida Wildflower Foundation has awarded the Town of Surfside a 2025 Viva Florida Landscape Demonstration Garden grant to enhance native plantings at Flamingo Garden Park, a pocket park beloved by walkers and cyclists alike. Located in the heart of the residential district at 92nd Street and Bay Drive, it offers a charming, tranquil space for reflection amongst scenic greenery. The grant application was spearheaded by Commissioner Vildostegui.
The grant will support the installation of Florida native wildflowers and plants, including beach verbena (Glandularia maritima), Jamaican caper (Quadrella cynophallophora), and American beautyberry (Callicarpa americana). The additions aim to showcase the beauty and ecological value of native flora in urban settings, while supporting pollinators and local wildlife.
CRB TO HOST SURFSIDE DEBATE IN OCTOBER
Want to be a part of the Town’s first ever Surfside Debate in October? The Community Relations Board (CRB) is looking for adults who want to test their skills in a fun and exciting Town debate featuring a variety of Town topics. Small teams of three or four participants will be formed for the event. Prizes will be provided for the winning team!
If interested, please email CRB Vice Chair Joanna Katz at jokatzhoff@gmail.com.
News From Town Hall
TOWN URGES FLOOD PREPAREDNESS AHEAD OF PEAK HURRICANE SEASON
From Public Works - Rising Water Worries: With the peak of hurricane season approaching, forecasters are warning that storms may become both more frequent and more intense due to warming ocean temperatures. Our Public Works Department is committed to working diligently to keep floodwaters under control by keeping storm drains clear and ensuring stormwater pumps are clear of debris and fully operational to help mitigate flooding during major rain events.
Construction sites and landscaping companies must take steps to keep storm drains clear by ensuring proper storage, handling, and disposal of construction materials, debris, and chemicals to prevent contamination of stormwater runoff. Residents can help by ensuring the sewer clean-out caps on their property are properly placed and undamaged. Damaged or open clean-out caps can cause backups by exposing the Town’s sewer system to obstructions and contaminants, or overwhelm it with excessive water it wasn’t designed to handle. By working together and staying aware, we can help Surfside stay safer and more resilient, especially during the most active parts of hurricane season.
If you have a damaged sewage clean-out cap or see improper construction waste removal practices, please contact the Town of Surfside at (305) 861-4863.
GRIEF IS MEANT TO BE SHARED: FREE GRIEF SUPPORT FOR ALL AGES
By The Children’s Bereavement Center - Grieving the loss of a loved one is one of life’s hardest journeys—but no one should go through it alone. The Children’s Bereavement Center (CBC) and its adult division, Lift From Loss, offer FREE, ongoing grief support groups for children, teens, young adults, and adults. Participants can stay involved for as long as they need, with no cost and no time limits.
Weekly evening groups are held via Zoom, offering a safe, supportive space guided by trained facilitators and mental health professionals. CBC’s services are available in English, with Spanish and Creole support offered for adult groups.
CBC also offers specialized groups for Perinatal and Infant Loss, Child Loss at any age, and Long-Term Grief. To support emotional expression, music and art therapy are integrated into groups and sessions. In addition to groups, there is always a variety of educational tools and resources available free of charge.
CBC’s unique model—grounded in empathy, peer connection, and healthy grieving—gives people of all ages the tools and community to heal. To join a group or learn more, call 888-988-5438 email: support@childbereavement. org or visit childbereavement.org.
We believe that no one should ever grieve alone.
COMMISSION CELEBRATES 2024-2025 YOUTH COUNCIL FOR LEADERSHIP
At the July Commission Meeting, the Town of Surfside recognized the 2024-2025 Youth Council for their outstanding dedication to civic engagement, environmental stewardship and community service. Mayor Charles W. Burkett praised the group, stating they “represent the future of Surfside, bringing fresh ideas and meaningful contributions that are already making a difference.” This year’s Youth Council members organized the Seeds for Change Environmental Summit program, traveled to Tallahassee with Vice Mayor Tina Paul to learn about state government and advocacy, and volunteered at numerous Town events.
News From Town Hall
SEAGRAPE TREE FINDS NEW HOME ON BEACH HARDPACK
A beloved seagrape tree once rooted at 303 Surfside (91st Street & Harding Avenue) has found a new home by the 91st Street beach hardpack as part of the Town Commission’s ongoing efforts to enhance shade and native vegetation along Surfside’s oceanfront. The relocation, featured in Episode 8 of “Mondays with the Manager,” was made possible through a generous donation by the developer of the 303 Surfside site, who not only contributed the tree but also covered the cost of the move.
“This tree represents more than just a new planting, it’s a symbol of the Town’s commitment to sustainability and beautification,” said Town Manager Mark Blumstein. “We’re focused on adding more natural shade and native greenery to our beach areas, and this is just the beginning.”
The Commission has prioritized the revitalization of Surfside’s beach hardpack and dune areas, aiming to increase native vegetation and enhance public spaces for residents and visitors alike. The transplanted seagrape now stands tall just west of the dunes, offering future shade and visual appeal along the popular path.
FREEBEE EXPANDS ROUTE TO THE RITZ-CARLTON BAL HARBOUR
Surfside residents have a new stop to smile about—Freebee has officially expanded its route to include the Ritz-Carlton Bal Harbour, the Miami Beach Post Office on 71st Street, offering convenient, doorto-door service at no cost. The on-demand ride service continues to provide free transportation to key local destinations, including Bal Harbour Shops and Kane Concourse.
Download the Freebee app, request a ride, and enjoy daily service within the designated area. The expansion reflects the Town’s ongoing commitment to improving mobility and accessibility for all residents. For assistance, residents can call 855-918-3733.
Uptown FunTown
SEA TURTLE NESTING SEASON RETURNS TO SURFSIDE: RESIDENTS URGED TO PROTECT ENDANGERED SPECIES
Sea turtle nesting season is officially underway, and nests are beginning to appear along Surfside’s shoreline. Town officials are reminding beachgoers to follow key guidelines to help protect these endangered marine animals during this critical time.
Visitors are urged to keep a safe distance from marked nests, avoid using flashlights or flash photography, and refrain from disturbing the nesting areas. Before leaving the beach, residents and visitors should fill in any holes, flatten sandcastles and remove all beach equipment to ensure a safe and clear path for turtles.
“Protecting our sea turtles is a shared responsibility,” said Town Manager Mark Blumstein. “By following these simple steps, we can help ensure hatchlings make it safely to the ocean.”
The Town encourages the community to share the shore respectfully and do their part in safeguarding Surfside’s natural habitat.
BUILDING A RESILIENT SURFSIDE: WHY WE NEED EXPERTS AT THE TABLE
Sustainability & Resilience Committee Corner - The 2025 hurricane season is here, and for Surfside, a coastal Town already vulnerable to flooding and other impacts from extreme weather events, climate preparedness is more urgent now than ever. As sea levels rise and extreme weather events intensify, we need more residents with technical expertise to help shape solutions that protect our community, both physically and socially, as well as economically.
We Need Local Experts Now The Town of Surfside’s Sustainability and Resiliency Committee is currently seeking residents with experience in engineering, urban planning (with a focus on infrastructure), or emergency management. Your knowledge can help shape climate-smart infrastructure and guide community-level policies to reduce risk and protect quality of life.
This advisory committee works directly with the Town Administration and supports the Commission to: Evaluate climate-related vulnerabilities. Propose infrastructure and sustainability improvements. Promote preparedness, awareness, and resilience. Advocate for science-based decisions that reflect local needs.
Why Your Voice Matters If you’re a Surfside resident, a registered voter, and have experience in these areas, we need you at the table. This is an opportunity to contribute to tangible change, helping shape long-term solutions that benefit everyone in our Town.
Apply now via the Town Clerk’s Boards and Committees page: www.townofsurfsidefl. gov/departments-services/town-clerk/town-boards-and-committees or scan the QR code on the right.
Join Us! We invite all residents to participate in our next Sustainability Committee meeting in Town Hall on August 21 at noon to discuss more ways to protect our environment and create a resilient community.
Together, we can make a difference!
Police Beat
SURFSIDE’S “PIZZA WITH THE POLICE” BRINGS COMMUNITY AND OFFICERS TOGETHER OVER A SLICE
Residents gathered at the Community Center on June 25 for the Surfside Police Department’s “Pizza with the Police,” an evening designed to foster open dialogue and strengthen ties between law enforcement and the community.
Vice Mayor Tina Paul attended alongside Chief Press, Deputy Chief Doce, Major Matelis, and other officers who mingled with attendees, answered questions, and shared pizza provided by local sponsors Mister O1 Extraordinary Pizza and Fialkoff’s Kosher Pizza.
“This event is all about building trust, approachability, and a sense of partnership between our officers and the people we serve,” said Chief Press. “We want residents to feel comfortable coming to us—not just in times of crisis, but in everyday conversation.”
The event was met with enthusiastic participation and highlighted Surfside’s ongoing commitment to community policing.
POLICE MEET WITH CONDO MANAGERS TO STRENGTHEN HURRICANE PREPAREDNESS
The Surfside Police Department joined members of the Condo Managers Association for a Hurricane Preparedness Meeting on July 2, at the Residence Inn Surfside. With hurricane season underway, the meeting focused on reinforcing emergency protocols, enhancing coordination with Town departments, and ensuring that condominium communities are storm-ready.
Attendees included representatives from several local properties: Ronny Pupo of Fendi Chateau; Andres Mejia and Diego Holguin of Solara Surfside; Elisa Rodriguez of Azure Condominium; Moises Mesa and Lourdes Roland of Mirage Condominium; and Karla Borge of Waverly Surfside Condominium. Call Major Matelis if you’d like your condo to be part of the next training.
Police officials outlined key response strategies, including evacuation procedures, securing building perimeters, and maintaining open lines of communication before, during, and after a storm. The meeting also addressed questions from property managers and emphasized the shared responsibility of preparedness between the Town and residential buildings.
It Starts In Parks
FOURTH OF JULY SPECTACULAR DRAWS 900 ATTENDEES FOR A DAY TO REMEMBER
This year’s Annual Fourth of July Spectacular, presented by the Parks & Recreation Department, brought together more than 900 community members for an unforgettable evening of patriotic celebration.
Guests gathered at the Community Center for a day filled with live music, family-friendly games, and festive fun. The evening’s highlights included a dazzling drone show followed by a fireworks display that lit up the Surfside sky, earning cheers from residents of all ages. Thank you to everyone who joined us to celebrate Independence Day in true Surfside style, together as a community!
AQUA ZUMBA CLASS MAKES A SPLASH AT SURFSIDE POOL
Surfside’s Parks and Recreation Department is making waves with its popular Aqua Zumba class, taught by Town Water Rescue team member Barbara Vasallo. The high-energy workout blends traditional Zumba choreography with water resistance for a fun and refreshing fitness experience. Photos from the latest session show residents enjoying the upbeat music and vibrant community atmosphere.
Presented by Parks & Recreation
Presented by Parks & Recreation
It Starts In Parks
PARKS AND RECREATION LAUNCHES NEW MOBILE APP
The Town of Surfside Parks and Recreation Department has launched a new mobile app to make it easier for residents to stay connected and access services on the go. Residents can now use the app to:
Register for programs and classes. Check in at facilities with an in-app barcode. Pay outstanding balances. Receive notifications about events, program updates, and weatherrelated cancellations.
Download the app today to stay informed and engaged with Parks and Recreation programs.
REPORTING A SEA TURTLE ON THE BEACH
Sea Turtles are protected by the US Endangered Species Act of 1973 and Florida Statute Chapter 370. It is illegal to harm or harass sea turtles, their nests or hatchlings. The Miami Dade County Sea Turtle Program (MDCSTCP) responds to reports of dead or injured sea turtles throughout all of Miami Dade County. Data such as species, size, and condition of turtle, are recorded on a standardized data sheet that is submitted to the Sea Turtle Stranding and Salvage Network, which in Florida, is coordinated by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. If you find a sick or injured sea turtle, please call:
Miami-Dade County Sea Turtle Stranding Hotline: 305-310-3046 or 24-hour FWC Wildlife Alert Hotline: 1-888-404-3922
Please be prepared to answer the following questions:
1. What is the exact location of the animal?
2. Is the turtle alive or dead?
3. What is the approximate size of the turtle?
4. Is the turtle marked with spray paint?
5. What is the location of the closest access point to the turtle?
(During your phone call, you may receive further instructions from MDCSTCP staff on what to do depending on the status of the sea turtle.)
It Starts In Parks
NEW TRELLISES ENHANCE NORTH AND EAST SIDES OF COMMUNITY CENTER
The Town of Surfside Parks and Recreation Department, in collaboration with the Public Works Department, recently unveiled a series of custom-built trellises on the north and east sides of the Community Center. Designed to enhance both form and function, the new structures provide much-needed shade for residents and guests while contributing to the beautification of the facility’s outdoor spaces. The project reflects the Town’s continued investment in creating inviting, functional environments that promote community wellness and outdoor enjoyment.
“All costs for the design, materials and installation were fully covered by the 93 Ocean development,” said Town Manager Mark Blumstein. “We’re grateful for their partnership in helping us improve public spaces at no expense to our taxpayers.”
SCAN TO RESERVE A LAP LANE
HOW TO BREAK
THE GRIP OF THE RIP:
•Don’t fight the current.
•Swim out of the current then to shore.
•If you can’t escape, float or tread water.
•Call or wave for assistance.
• Always swim in a lifeguarded area.
• Never swim alone, regardless of your age or level of swimming skills.
SCAN QR CODE FOR THE AQUATIC PROGRAMS
REFRESH YOUR BEACH SAFETY KNOWLEDGE
N O
*Conditions available during beach tower operations.
• Be aware of weather and water conditions and heed warnings. For daily beach conditions, contact the Community Center at (305) 866–3635.
• Keep within your fitness and swimming capabilities.
