Property Appraiser released the Estimated Taxable Values by Taxing Authority (June 1, 2025)

ESTIMATED PROPERTY TAX ROLL RELEASED

I am posting the June 1 preliminary tax roll numbers for Palmetto Bay as well as some of our comparable municipalities. Palmetto Bay Council members may feel free to review my numbers and provide their own assessments or advisement.

Source: MIAMI-DADE COUNTY, PROPERTY APPRAISER

2025 Estimated Taxable Values by Taxing Authority

Released JUNE 1, 2025

(CLICK HERE) to view the full document, available on the M-D Property Appraiser web page.

  5.4%   Coral Gables

  6.7%   Cutler Bay

  5.6%   Homestead

  6.9%   Miami Lakes

  9.1%   Pinecrest

  6.6%  Palmetto Bay

  9.1%   South Miami

  8.7%   Unincorporated Miami-Dade (UMSA)

  8.5%   Countywide (will affect your countywide portion of your tax bill)

  3.6%   School Board (will affect your School Board portion of your tax bill)

Notes:

Initial estimate released June 1:

The Miami-Dade Property Appraiser issued the June 1, 2025 Estimates of Taxable Value to Miami-Dade County's Taxing Authorities.  This allows the County, School Board, and local governments such as Coral Gables, South Miami, Pinecrest, Palmetto Bay, Cutler Bay, and Homestead to proceed with the preparation of their 2025-2026 budgets.

Final Property Roll to be released July 1.

July 1st the Property Appraiser’s Office will publish the 2019 Preliminary Assessment Roll, which provides the taxing authorities with their official numbers to set their millage (tax) rates in July.

Transit on the ballot in Miami-Dade as officials look to expand Metromov...

See Channel 10 online for the full story - excerpts below:

MIAMI – Advocates say Miami-Dade voters have a choice on the Aug. 20 ballot.

“More highways, more congestion, or a new option?” Mark Merwitzer, with Transit Alliance Miami, said.

A measure on the primary ballot includes a non-binding question about expanding rapid transit in the county, specifically the existing Metromover and Metrorail systems.

It comes as choking congestion prompts county commissioners to look at elevated rail along the county’s East-West Corridor: a Metromover expansion along Flagler Street to Florida International University.

“The number one complaint about quality of life in Miami-Dade County is the traffic,” Merwitzer said. “Traffic is a nightmare and public transit is the solution to that.”

Miami-Dade County Commissioner Eileen Higgins summed it up thusly: “People are trapped in traffic.”

see Channel 10 Miami - As congestion chokes Miami-Dade, transit on ballot as officials ponder Metromover to FIU

EDITOR'S NOTE: I am not sure how I will vote.  I am far from pleased as to how the current half cent sales tax is being (mis)spent. I'd like to send a message and vote NO, but they will play the vote how they want to, regardless of the results.

UPDATE: I am posting a screen shot of the County Straw Ballot question.  Do we really need to answer it? The answer is obvious. But note that this does nothing toward upgrading South Dade with anything elevated, which the prior mayors of Pinecrest, Palmetto Bay and Cutler Bay fought for.  This locks South Miami-Dade into the bus; but now with the old fashioned Railroad style crossing gates (talk about antiquated technology). 

87th Avenue Bridge Litigation - Volunteer attorneys Norman M. Waas, Esq, and Jessica M. Hernandez, Esq. filed a motion to expedite appeal.

The reality is setting in for residents on all sides of the canal. As many are aware, Miami-Dade County has started moving forward on the actual construction of the bridge as of Tuesday, May 28, 2024.  This generated mixed reaction from opposing sides – a huge sigh of relief and celebration from those who have fought for the bridge versus significant angst and anxiety from those in opposition. 

The only statement from village leaders to date was posted on Facebook:

Please be aware that the contractor has mobilized at the construction site for Miami-Dade County’s SW 87 Avenue bridge project. The Village will be working with the contractor and the County to minimize any disruption to residents in the affected area. We will also provide updates on the project as they become available. (bold emphasis added).

I haven’t seen any other statements made by or on behalf of our village counsel regarding the commencement of the bridge construction. Please feel free to notify me of what ever information you have seen or heard.

Action in the form of a motion to expedite appeal was filed Wednesday, May 29, 2024. The motion to expedite appeal was filed on behalf of the Appellants, the Palmetto Bay residents in opposition to the 87 Avenue bridge.  These residents have been represented by volunteer counsel - Norman M. Waas, Esq, and Jessica M. Hernandez, Esq, of the local law firm FALK, WAAS, SOLOMON, MENDLESTEIN & DAVIS, P.A. The village is usually represented by a Village Attorney, or one of the special counsels listed as eligible to represent the village in such matters.

The rules of appellate procedure do provide for situations where a court may expedite the appeal.  The motion was filed on May 29, 2024, arguing that:

Public interest supports the appropriateness of expedited review of this matter. It is indisputable that the bridge project will affect the lives of residents in the Village of Palmetto Bay. Those opposed to the bridge—including Appellants—are concerned that increased traffic in the neighborhoods along 87th Avenue, especially north of the bridge, will badly damage the character of the neighborhoods and pose unnecessary traffic and safety risks.

Kudos to both Norman M. Waas, Esq, and Jessica M. Hernandez, Esq. who have been carrying a huge burden without compensation on behalf of the Village of Palmetto Bay, who is listed as the first named party to this appeal. Both attorneys should be recognized for their service, regardless of anyone’s position on the bridge.

I will keep you up to date on how this matter progresses.

Other related documents:

I am providing access to the briefs filed to date.

The Initial Brief of the Appellants (E-filed April 12, 2024) (those in opposition to the bridge, filed by volunteer counsel - Norman M. Waas, Esq, and Jessica M. Hernandez, Esq

The Answer Brief of the Appellee (e-filed May 13, 2024) Filed by Miami-Dade County.

The Reply Brief of the Appellants (E-filed May 28, 2024) (those in opposition to the bridge, filed by volunteer counsel - Norman M. Waas, Esq, and Jessica M. Hernandez, Esq

BREAKING NEWS - Judge DENIES Miami-Dade County's Motion to Dismiss complaint - bridge litigation moves forward.

I just received this order denying the County's Motion to Dismiss - on all counts. The order was rendered at 6:19 PM on Thursday, September 22, 2022.

I will review this three page order and opine on it at a later date, but for now you can read the full three page order (CLICK HERE).

Miami-Dade Minute - 2022 Bike To Work Day

Wednesday, March 9, 2022 - Mayor Daniella Levine Cava led the 10th Annual Bike305 Bike to Work Day, an event that encourages residents in all municipalities to ride a bicycle to work, school, and fun destinations for a healthy way to live life. The 2022 event was held in Miami Lakes. It was 6-mile police escorted bike ride from Miami Lakes Town Hall to Amelia Earhart Park.

Miami-Dade County will hold the Joint meeting with Palmetto Bay today, Thursday, January 20, 2022, at 12:45 PM. There is a public comment section listed on the agenda.

 Today is a big day in regard to the 87th Avenue bridge issue. The Palmetto Bay Council and Board of County Commissioners will meet in a joint meeting today, Thursday, January 20, 2022. at 12:45 PM

The agenda does include "reasonable opportunity for the public to be heard" (Public Comment). (CLICK HERE) to view the official agenda.

4A JOINT STATEMENT OF THE ISSUES
 

4A  

  220108 Joint Meeting/Workshop  

  ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF THE JOINT STATEMENT OF THE ISSUES (ATTACHED TO THIS AGENDA) RELATED TO THE CONFLICT RESOLUTION PROCEEDINGS INITIATED BY THE VILLAGE OF PALMETTO BAY AGAINST MIAMI-DADE COUNTY PURSUANT TO VILLAGE RESOLUTION NO. 2021-18  

5A REASONABLE OPPORTUNITY FOR THE PUBLIC TO BE HEARD
 

6 DISCUSSION AND CONSIDERATION BY THE VILLAGE COUNCIL AND THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS  

6A  

  220105 Discussion Item  

  CONSIDERATION OF THE JOINT STATEMENT OF THE ISSUES BY THE VILLAGE COUNCIL AND THE BOARD  

6B  

  220106 Discussion Item  

  DISCUSSION OF ANY RESOLUTION OF THE DISPUTE  

6C  

  220107 Discussion Item  

  CONSIDERATION BY THE VILLAGE COUNCIL AND THE BOARD OF ANY PROPOSED MOTIONS FOR A CONCEPTUAL RESOLUTION OF THE CONFLICT RESOLUTION PROCEEDINGS, OR IF NO CONCEPTUAL RESOLUTION IS REACHED, THE GOVERNING BODIES ARE REQUIRED TO SCHEDULE MEDIATION TO BE CONDUCTED BY THEIR REPRESENTATIVES TO CONTINUE TO SEEK RESOLUTION OF THE CONFLICT  

7A ADJOURNMENT

Miami-Dade County DTPW sets a critical Virtual Public Meeting regarding the 87th Avenue bridge - set for December 15, 2021, from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Miami-Dade County has scheduled the meeting Palmetto Bay officials have declined to have –a detailed public meeting on the 87 Avenue bridge. The advertisement is posted below. Miami Herald subscribers can view this Miami-Dade County advertisement on Page 12A, Miami Herald, Wednesday, December 1, 2021.

This meeting didn’t just pop up overnight. I am not sure why it was not discussed by the current mayor and council members at the Palmetto Bay Special Council meetings held Monday, November 29. Perhaps they were caught by surprise at the public notice in the Wednesday paper (although advertisement deadlines required that this advertisement be submitted days prior to the Monday meetings). Unfortunately, the current Palmetto Bay administration appears to prefer to restrict information rather than promote robust public discussions.

Regardless – who should attend? (I bet you, the reader, meets at list one of those listed below):

·       Those concerned (for and/or against) the bridge. 
· Cyclists who want input as to the planned dedicated bike lanes (including, not just for the bridge, but for all of 87 avenue). 
·       Those interested in connectivity for golf carts.
·       Pedestrians (who plan on walking this section – to see what protective walking areas the County has planned as they are not included in ‘dedicated’ bike lanes).
·       Those interested in ensuring that drought resistant native plants will be used for landscaping.
·       Those interested in this project adding value to the area (more than ‘just a bridge’ – the additional amenities).

Note the project will include lighting, fencing and landscaping - all of which will impact the immediate area.

Also note: This is a Miami-Dade County planned project, so we want to watch this project to ensure that it does not become another 136th Street MEGA sidewalk fiasco as planned by Palmetto Bay officials.

Also note - the planned amenities are those planned by Miami-Dade County and were never mentioned or sought by Palmetto Bay Officials during the many months of negotiations were held on the proposed Interlocal A

More information (for those who truly want to be ‘in the loop’ on this matter: email: DTPWOutreach@miamidade.gov

Showdown vote coming for the Urban Development Boundary in South Miami-Dade County. Any opposition or support by any elected officials from Palmetto Bay, Pinecrest, Cutler Bay, Homestead or Florida City?

Thursday, September 9, 2021, may be another watershed moment in defending the UDB. Where do our current elected officials from the South Dade municipalities stand on this project. Are there any resolutions in support or opposition? (I honestly don’t know as Palmetto Bay has not posted any resolutions passed since December 2019) Will any of the South Dade elected officials appear today to either support or oppose this project. Do we stick to developing land within the current UDB?

There is an article in the Miami Herald that provides the background of this project. Miami Herald subscribers can review the article Showdown vote coming for the Urban Development Boundary in SouthMiami-Dade County, by Douglas Hanks, 9/08/2021.

Reporter Doug Hanks advises that the county’s Regulatory and Economic Resources Department states that South Miami-Dade already has enough vacant industrial land to accommodate new projects through 2040; that if the proposed South Dade Logistics and Technology District industrial park gets built, it would take more than 100 years for the market to absorb the new space.

Shouldn’t our local elected officials make the effort to show up and provide testimony, input as to the impact this project may have on our communities (good or bad). This is what representative government is all about, why we vote to elect people - to represent us.

Palmetto Bay was once a charter member of the “Hold the Line” campaign which opposed extending the UDB. See Palmetto Bay resolution 05-43.

We don’t know where the current administration stands. Maybe we will see our Village officials step forward and advocate in public, before the Board of County Commissioners. Or maybe once again it will be off the record, after the fact, targeted sound bites tailored to the specific audience or person they are addressing. I would also add that what each elected official says may be their opinion, but it is not actually the official policy of any government unless it is discussed in public, voted on and passed as a resolution or other official approved action.

Again, we are at yet another watershed moment for South Dade. Which elected officials will rise to provide South Miami-Dade residents a voice on the future of South Miami-Dade?

SW 136th Street update. There is no mistaking who owns responsibility for this SW 136th project design: Palmetto Bay officials (2019 to date) who redesigned it from bike lanes to a MEGA shared path.

Let's be clear. Palmetto Bay was at all time responsible for the design on the SW 136th Street Project. Palmetto Bay also had the right of first refusal to the Project.  The County is responsible for the construction of the Palmetto Bay designed project. So here we go, the project is finally moving to actual construction. This past Monday, County crews identified the trees that will be removed and replaced for the SW 136 Street MEGA sidewalk project. I have been contacted my many people concerned about the numbers of trees marked for death (removal) and relocation. Remember, this project was once a bike lane project that would have extended the road surface a total of 8 feet; 4 feet on the Palmetto Bay side (east bound lanes) and the other 4 feet on the Pinecrest side (the west bound lanes).

The “Finger Pointing Tour” has begun. Palmetto Bay deflection of responsibility is ramping up as they keep referring to "the County" as responsible for this project. This is a project where Palmetto Bay officials now reference everything as “the County”. Now it is true that "the county" is readying to break ground sometime on or about July 12. It is also true that "the County" marked the trees for removal or 'relocation'.  But please, do not scapegoat Miami-Dade County. The ‘shared path’ slated for SW 136 Street is far from an exclusive project of Miami-Dade County. It is a Joint Participation Project,  done under a contract known as a Joint Participation Agreement (JPA). This means Palmetto Bay officials can't blame Miami-Dade County for the change from a bike lane to the MEGA (8-10 foot) shared path. The current Mayor and Village Council of Palmetto Bay had control over the project design. 

The original plan: (Prior administration) The Palmetto Bay Village Council adopted Resolution No. 2017-47 approving the Joint Participation Agreement (JPA) with Miami-Dade County to construct a bicycle lane along SW 136 Street from US1 to Old Cutler Road.

The information is contained in Resolution, (2017-47) which allocated a total of $500,000 in Village funds toward the project.

Comprehensive information is available in a PRIOR RELATED POST of September 23, 2020, Facts are facts. Here are the facts concerning the SW 136 Street Bike Lanes project: It is a Joint Project (JPA) between Miami-Dade County and Palmetto Bay.

Please also take the time to review another detailed article (posted December 13, 2019), SW 136th Street Project update - Pinecrest Meeting held December 11, 2019. Here is the report I received:

I reported on the Pinecrest community meeting held regarding the changed project. Over 20 people were in attendance, some were Palmetto Bay residents. Pinecrest officials were there. I am told that Palmetto  Bay was represented by District 3 Council Member Marsha Matson, who is advocating for a mega sidewalk for all of Palmetto Bay. [see a PRIOR RELATED POST of October 2019: Foreshadowing - for now, please review the Palmetto Bay Path conceptual Plan proposed by Marsha Matson, Palmetto Bay Councilmember, District 3, March18, 2019. Please review the Palmetto Bay Path conceptual Plan proposed by Marsha Matson, Palmetto Bay Council Member, District 3, March 18, 2019. (CLICK HERE) to download and view this 23 page document.]

There is no mistaking who owns responsibility for this SW 136th project design - Palmetto Bay officials (2019 to date).

Above. the current project, as redesigned and approved by Palmetto Bay officials (2019 to date)
Below- the original design as approved by Palmetto Bay officials pre-2018.

 

 

Palmetto Bay's Shannon Melendi Act - more important than ever. Here are the facts and my opinion on enforcing it.

I have received many inquiries in the last two weeks about the Shannon Melendi Act as enacted by Palmetto Bay. I am posting the discussion here. The law was enacted in 2008. It has not been amended or repealed by any subsequent administrations. I will add that this law was very important to me. Important as a father as well as a mayor who feels a huge responsibility to safeguarding the safety of our residents, of all ages. Therefore, it was important to me to work to enact our (Palmetto Bay's) own version of the Shannon Melendi Act. As Palmetto Bay's founding mayor, I pushed hard along side the initial Village Council to create what I later coined (and had trademarked) "The Village of Parks" in 2006.

Please note that Miami-Dade County had enacted the Shannon Melendi Act which Palmetto Bay incorporated into our initial parks ordinance. We went further, strengthening this law; casting a wider net of protection for child / personal safety. It was stated in the Ordinance that we, "...are concerned about the security and safety of children visiting Village Parks..." Police, Protection, Parks, ... all part of what I have long called 'the "Ps" of Palmetto Bay.' all are needed to work together for benefit our our village.

Who falls under, who is exempt, from the Palmetto Bay’s version of the Shannon Melendi Act?

The Palmetto Bay’s version of the Shannon Melendi Act applies for any event or program other than a single day event (the one-day picnic, Relay for Life, a single day special event) that takes place in our parks. Where applicable, who must comply with the Shannon Melendi Act? The short answer, in my opinion, nearly everyone other than the following who are specifically excluded:

• Law enforcement personnel; 
• Emergency or fire rescue personnel;
• Persons conducting deliveries; and
• Military recruitment personnel

Why are those listed above exempt? Because all on this list go through a vigorous background check.

Employers of child event workers, employers of park vendors, and programming partners and CBOs shall, upon request, provide copies of these documents to the village or to any law enforcement personnel with jurisdiction.

Every child event worker, park vendor, and staff member and volunteer of a programming partner or CBO shall wear, in a conspicuous and visible manner, an identification badge that contains his/her photograph and full name while working or volunteering on park property owned or operated by the village, except when in costume and during a performance. The identification badge shall be of a size, design, and format approved by the village park and recreation department.

Volunteers are NOT exempt. The Act does include Volunteers as well. Palmetto Bay’s ordinance defines the applicability as follows: "Volunteer shall refer to any individual performing volunteer duties for a CBO, for a programming partner, for the village's park and recreation department, as a child event worker, or as a park vendor for more than three days in any six-month period. Students volunteering in order to fulfill high school graduation requirements shall be exempted from this definition." (bold emphasis added)

Reading the original Shannon Melendi Act on Municode may be a bit arduous, so here is a link to the actual Ordinance that I and fellow members of the village council championed in 2008: CLICK HERE to view.

PENALITIES - FINES FOR VIOLATIONS REMAIN THE LAW IN PALMETTO BAY

By the way, there are penalties for those who violate Palmetto Bay's Shannon Melendi Act. Sec. 20-179. - Section 8CC-10 Schedule of civil penalties. Read the entire code section (CLICK HERE to view this specific section on Municode).

Village Officials, who are charged with enforcing (or amending) Village Codes, may issue a notice of violation which carries a civil penalty up to $500.00 for violations of this action, including: "Failure to secure nationwide criminal background check of a prospective child event worker, park vendor, or employee or volunteer of a programming partner or CBO whose duties would require physical presence on The village-owned or operated park property"

FAIR QUESTION: Should this ordinance (law), The Shannon Melendi Act, be enforced as enacted or applied selectively if at all? I say this law is needed more that ever.

IN MY OPINION: There is no 'explaining away" or "reinterpreting" Palmetto Bay's Shannon Melendi Act. Either enforce it, amend it or repeal it, but don't leave a law on the books and not enforce it. That only risks a false sense of security for our residents and their children that may lead to tragedy. 

BACKGROUND - Why did the members of the Village Council in 2008 enact this ordinance (Law)? For subscribers of the Miami Herald, see: A beloved Miami college student vanished 25 years ago. There was a murder, but no closure, by Miami Herald Archives, March 10, 2019

CONSTRUCTION ALERT - Howard Drive Shared Path project. Construction scheduled to commence July 12, 2021. Details and background provided

Here is a true “in the loop” update on the Howard Drive Shared Path project. Construction is scheduled to commence July 12, 2021. Details and background are supplied below.

Not much has been heard about the MEGA sidewalk since the fireworks erupted late in 2020. I have been provided a timeline from County sources that I am releasing here. CLICK HERE for background blog posts or review: September 29, 2020, Seeking updates on the SW 136th Street MEGA sidewalkproject. Is the grand Photo Op ceremony still on for Friday, October 2nd (SPOILER ALERT – it was cancelled and I am not in the loop as to whether it will ever take place). Also see October 30, 2019, Pinecrest Wins, Palmetto Bay loses. Pinecrest Council discusses material changes to 136 St Bike Lane. Palmetto Bay may be home to a 10 foot MEGA sidewalk instead of a shared project.

July 12, 2021: Anticipate commencement of the shared use path. The initial work will start Howard Drive Elementary in order to minimize any disruptions of class schedules for the upcoming 2021-22 school year.

Both Palmetto Bay and Pinecrest were notified on March 4, 2021, by Miami-Dade County that the start date for construction of the shared used path was July 12, 2021. The County anticipates the project will last 300 days – with substantial completion in 240 days.

All this flows from various meetings, including those listed below:

A November 7, 2019 meeting was held where Mayors Corradino and Cunningham both met with representatives from the County to review the project.

There was an October 23, 2019, meeting where the Pinecrest Public Works Director met with County representatives to discuss the issue with tree removal along the Pinecrest side of the right of way. The result of this meeting was that the County agreed that the trees on the Pinecrest side of SW 136 Street will not be disturbed.

September 23 and 25, 2019: Pinecrest Public Works Director met with Miami-Dade County and Palmetto Bay to discuss plans for the shared-use bike lane on SW 136 Street. Discussed centered around a revised approach that would involve construction of a shared use path along the entire length of 136 Street on the south side (Palmetto Bay) and nothing on the Pinecrest side. 

Further updates will be provided when and if received.

Small Bites - TPO Bridge vote Post-Mortem review. Miami-Dade County has ALWAYS been willing to negotiate. Background and Example 1. Village Wide residential speed limit report.

I am providing a few examples of concessions made by Miami-Dade County (MDC) to show its willingness to work with the Municipal partners (including Palmetto Bay). This is first of a series.

Other examples will include my work with MDC to obtain bike lanes along SW 136th Street (Howard Drive). Negotiations are always ongoing as current leadership worked with the County to revise that plan in order to place a 8-10 foot wide shared recreation path solely on the Palmetto Bay (south) side of SW 136th Street.

In regard to the Bridge - this was never a surprise. I won't go into all that went into the effort that lead to the political slaughter before the TPO (SPOILER ALERT: most of the factors where absolute lack of follow through on the commitments made the last time Palmetto Bay appeared before the TPO on the bridge). I did put this issue out in December 15, 2020 - just days before the current Palmetto Bay mayor had a comprehensive meeting with our County Commissioner Danielle Cohen Higgins. See: December 15, 2020, 2021's first test - the bridge is back. Will it unite or divide Palmetto Bay? Will it happen without input from Palmetto Bay's so-called leaders? 

The sad part is that this TPO fiasco went as poorly as I feared - it has moved forward so far in spite of, and worse, without input from Palmetto Bay's so-called leaders who would rather play victim and allege lack of notice despite the fact that they were warned - and not just by me. Walking away from an issue will not make it go away. But I spoke about it  in the initial Post-Mortem of March 10, 2021, TPO committee moves 87th Ave bridge forward to full TPO Board. Antagonism politics is not working for this Palmetto Bay mayor and council.

You want "no right turn signs"? The County has always been reasonable. What has been unreasonable has been the cost of enforcement.

You want "traffic tables"? We have secured these anytime we have asked.

In fact, the County has even looked away when Palmetto Bay has conveniently failed to comply with the requirements that the 'temporary traffic tables' (informally identified as the black rubber mats) be removed after 90 days.

So after all the background - here is Example #1 - ready for implementation - Resolution 2018-12 - years of hard work and ready to be implemented to the extent that the present or any future mayor and councils desire: the 2017 Village Wide Speed Limit report and traffic calming. By the way, there is a lot in here that is applicable to Golf Carts in Palmetto Bay. This resolution was adopted in February 2018, prior to the elections. Realize that new mayor and new councils bring with them different ideas, priorities and policies - as well as tactics and relative abilities in transparency and work ethic. What has happened with this report post 2018 elections? Not a darn thing. 

My suggestion? I may have talked tough at times but I negotiated tougher - and achieved results. We need to get the village back on the track of co-existing and being civil - both to those we are negotiating with as well as the legions of residents who feel that their voices are currently not being heard. 

Really? 18.4 miles of MEGA sidewalks planned for Palmetto Bay? Look what our local officials have placed in the 2045 County Master Plan.

What a difference a change in leadership makes. Have you viewed the September 2019 Miami-Dade County 2019 updated to the County Bicycle Pedestrian Master Plan? If not, it may be time as many of these projects are slated for completion by 2023 and we are now entering 2021.

The short term projects still allege 4 foot wide bike lanes totaling 3.6 gross miles. But note the areas slated to receive 8 foot wide (MEGA) path - a total of 18.4 miles of MEGA sidewalk are slated for the areas indicted on the excerpt posted below. 

94 AVE - SW 175 ST to SW 184 ST    Install 8' wide multi-use path 0.5 gross mile
160 ST -  SW 164 ST to SW 89 AVE Install 8' wide multi-use path 1.5 gross mile 
141 ST  - SW 87 AVE to SW 175 ST Install 8' wide multi-use path 2.4 gross mile
152 ST  - SW 85 AVE to SW 151 ST Install 8' wide multi-use path 0.7 gross mile
77 CT    - SW 139 TER to SW 57 AVE Install 8' wide multi-use path 3.9 gross mile 
87 AVE - SW 79 AVE to SW 79 AVE Install 8' wide multi-use path 1.3 gross mile
135 ST - Old Cutler Rd to SW 184 ST Install 8' wide multi-use path 3.5 gross mile 
152 ST - SW 72 AVE to Old Cutler Rd Install 8' wide multi-use path 1.2 gross mile
Old Cutler Rd - 135 ST to SW 184 ST Install 8' wide multi-use path 3.4 gross mile

That's a lot of 8 foot wide MEGA paths paving through Palmetto Bay. 

Did you receive a survey asking your opinion? 

Were you invited to participate in a Town Hall meeting to discuss these planned projects?

CLICK HERE to review the two pages specifically referencing plans for Palmetto Bay (2 pages).

CLICK HERE to view the full document (256 pages) the 2045 Miami-Dade Bicycle Pedestrian Master Plan, September 2019

The Palmetto Bay Priorities are listed beginning online .PDF page 52. See figures 19, 20 and 21, all posted below. 

FIGURE 19 PALMETTO BAY SHORT TERM PRIORITIZED PROJECTS

FIGURE 20 PALMETTO BAY MID TERM PRIORITIZED PROJECTS

FIGURE 21 PALMETTO BAY LONG TERM PRIORITIZED PROJECTS

Here are my questions:

Where are the 8 foot mega sidewalks shown in the update (2019) County Plan referenced in the current Palmetto Bay Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan  adopted in 2019 with significant public involvement?

When did Palmetto Bay officials transmit to the County that Palmetto Bay was in agreement with the proposed mega sidewalks as referenced in figures 19, 20 & 21, as provided above?

When and how did the current Mayor and Village Council Members involve or even notify the public, particularly those who will be most affected by the MEGA sidewalks.

2021's first test - the bridge is back. Will it unite or divide Palmetto Bay? Will it happen without input from Palmetto Bay's so-called leaders?

Where do the Palmetto Bay elected leaders stand on this issue?

Let's be clear, my opinions here in this post concern much more than to bridge or not to bridge. It is about issue straddling and pandering misstatements passed along in Palmetto Bay,  much of the time done through proxy. The conflicting promises made, talking points specially developed for whomever the candidates are speaking, the underground attacks and rumor mongering (and preventing debates where the truth would be aired). 

Distractions, misdirection. A local government of bread and circuses. 
Questions from concerned residents: "Will Palmetto Bay leaders support or oppose the bridge?"
(Non) Response from elected officials: "Look! Over there! Palmetto Bay is holding birthday drive bys, would you like one? Don't miss out"

What is the plan? I heard the rumors made in the door to door personal campaigning - to vote against Silva and David Singer as they were “pro-bridge”. So now we have a District Commissioner who is on board with the bridge. So again, I ask, What is the plan from Palmetto Bay leadership? 

This should be interesting as a bridge is not an issue that can be easily straddled. This is an issue like human rights, a woman’s right to choose, balanced budgeting, and the death penalty; you are in or out.

Where do the current Palmetto Bay elected leaders stand on this issue? We know well where our District commissioner stands on this issue, as reported in the Miami Herald, A lawyer who won her first county battle in middle school, Cohen Higgins joins commission, By Douglas Hanks, Dec 14, 2020:

As a candidate, Cohen Higgins broke with Levine Cava on one top local issue: a county plan to build a bridge over a canal in Palmetto Bay and allow Southwest 87th Avenue to continue over it.

Levine Cava got heat for opposing the plan, which Palmetto Bay’s leadership didn’t want for the traffic it would bring north of the canal. Communities south of the canal backed the bridge as a way to ease cars snaking through neighborhood streets instead of taking 87th Avenue straight through. Cohen Higgins backs the bridge.

“I was very vocal and clear on that position,” she said. “I didn’t want to sit on the fence on it. I knew the politically safe thing to do would have been to give a cryptic response.”

So for those who voted for Cody and Tellam on the allegation that they will oppose the bridge (which was a position I never personally heard from either of them during their respective campaigns); I again ask: "What is the plan?" and will there be any public positions made or will it be muted responses by the current Palmetto Bay officials, be a "cryptic response" taking as it would be "...the politically safe thing to do..."? This is something Commissioner DCH has refused to do. Good for Commissioner DCH. Honesty in government. I should warn her about that. 

Now in Palmetto Bay, will we see action or a shrug of the shoulders? Denial and avoidance, all calculated to absolve themselves of any responsibility to control development in Palmetto Bay under the phrase “it is a County issue”.

The kool aid handed out along 87th Avenue, north of the canal, may soon taste bitter.

BTW, I am looking forward to many good things from Commissioner DCH, I realize that I may not agree with her on everything, but she is very upfront about her plans, her vision.

We shall see, these are exciting times we live in. But there are times that exciting is not a good thing. What will change in 2021 from 1998 (yes, 1998), 2015, 2017 and 2018? Recommended reading: January 6, 2020, Palmetto Bay’s current Mayor needs to stop hiding behind proxy attacks and build coalitions, not angry mobs through misinformation. 2020’s first textbook example of poor leadership.

I leave you with this - the rendering of the new bridge planned for SW 136th Street. Note the bike lanes on both sides [where do the west bound (Pinecrest side) bicyclists go before and after the bridge? I ask this as the bike lanes were removed from the project, but apparently remain on the bridge]

Congratulations Danielle Cohen Higgins, newly appointed County Commissioner, District 8

Palmetto Bay resident Danielle Cohen Higgins has been appointed to complete the term of County Commissioner, District 8. She will be up for reelection in 2022. 

Congratulations Danielle Cohen Higgins!

Commissioner Danielle Cohen Higgins posted a statement to her Facebook page:

"I am honored and humbled to share that after 19 months of campaigning, I was just appointed to serve as the next County Commissioner for the hardworking residents of District 8. I was sworn in and immediately joined the meeting in progress. There is much work to do. It is my honor to serve you."

See coverage in the Miami Herald: How only one name landed on the ballot for a Miami-Dade commission seat, by Douglas Hanks, December 7, 2020

The State of the Village Leadership – governments such as Palmetto Bay should set the example, not flaunt the CDC and County recommendations by hosting a potential local super spreader event

Just as the rules should apply to everyone, so too should the recommendations. Governments should lead by example. 

Example: The CDC is asking people not to travel during the Thanksgiving Holiday. The CDC is asking people to take precautions and limit contacts. 

Miami- Dade County's official messaging discourages celebrations beyond the immediate household. A county-produced video campaign on Thanksgiving encourages viewers to “share a virtual dinner with family and friends.”

Miami Herald: Skipping a big Thanksgiving during COVID-19? Here are some other ways to celebrate, 11/23/2020, by Simone Jasper

Actions speak louder than words, so then why is the Palmetto Bay Mayor planning what could be a 'super spreader' event for December 3, 2020? I am specifically referring to a "live" 2020 State of the Village Address. Enjoy an evening of fun at Ludovici Park, Thursday, December 3rd, 7 pm. Complimentary valet parking.

Food and drink - well it is apparently safe to remove masks to eat and drink, at least in Palmetto Bay. 

Valet Parking? So strangers will be getting in and out of different cars. Sharing contact between vehicles.

I just don't understand why this event should not be held virtually. Is this a case of overinflated egos, an overdeveloped sense of immunity, reckless disregard for the safety of community or an underdeveloped sense of self-control, to do things in the same manner and for the same regard for fellow residents?  Cutler Bay recently held its State of the Town through virtual presentation, but then again this Palmetto Bay is no Cutler Bay.

Perhaps the current Palmetto Bay mayor, council members, administration and staff are getting impatient for the vaccine that may be out in early spring and are instead pushing for the herd immunity to take root here in Palmetto Bay. 

The CDC has posted recommendations for those who insist on Attending a gathering this Thanksgiving, but one again, I don't think they are referring to government holding an event for hundreds of people. per the CDC:

Celebrating virtually or with the people you live with is the safest choice this Thanksgiving.

If you choose to attend a gathering, make your celebration safer. In addition to following the steps that everyone can take to make Thanksgiving safer, take these additional steps if attending a Thanksgiving gathering:

• Bring your own food, drinks, plates, cups, and utensils.
• Wear a mask and safely store your mask while eating and drinking.
• Avoid going in and out of the areas where food is being prepared or handled, such as in the kitchen.
• Use single-use options, like salad dressing and condiment packets, and disposable items like food containers, plates, and utensils.
  

Many students have gone to home schooling. Football teams are rescheduling games due to positive COVID tests, some colleges and universities are shifting back to online learning. 

We are not going to be successful in beating COVID unless we are all pushing in one direction, that we all follow the same rules and recommendations.

It takes a village, but this village appears to believe that it is an island. Recommendations, ha! Palmetto Bay is hosting a live party! Covid-19 be damned.

Update on the virtual meeting held regarding the Ludlum Trail. Opportunities for input remain.

I attended the virtual meeting held Thursday evening, November 19, 2020. As I have stated, the virtual meetings are a boon, not a hindrance to public participation. Dragging people down to one physician location is so 2019.  Virtual meetings are a tool that I wish I had available prior to 2018.  Look to the numbers posted below. 421 people attended and participated - and everyone had a great view and could control the volume from where there were sitting.

Miami-Dade County is doing a great job promoting public participation through the virtual meetings.

Here is a short update:

 624 people registered for this virtual meeting
 421 actually attended (a number that would overwhelm most physician meeting locations)
 242 participated via smart phone poll
 209 individual questions proffered and the numbers continue to grow 
85% Responded that the plan is generally on the right track
13% Responded "Maybe" to the question as to 'is the plan generally on the right track?'

You can still participate! CLICK HERE for access to the tools pictured below:

General information about the Ludlum Trail (from County website):

The purpose of the Ludlam Trail is to provide a new shared-use trail in Miami-Dade County that will include safe, dedicated, direct pathways for walking, running, and cycling; to encourage active lifestyles and the use of green, non-motorized modes of transportation; and to enhance overall connectivity and accessibility between schools, parks, transit stops and residences, workplaces and shopping.

The proposed project supports the vision to provide an interconnected trail system offering transportation alternatives and reducing traffic congestion for a livable, sustainable County. Ludlam Trail will be a vital component of a seamless network of future greenway trails and water trails connecting to the Metrorail Dadeland North Station to the south and to other planned trails including The Underline/East Coast Greenway, South Dade Trail, Snapper Creek Trail, East/West Trail and Merrick Trail. It will enhance mobility and strengthen connections to neighboring communities, providing increased opportunities for economic development. 

Reminder: Tune in and Participate regarding the Ludlam Trail. Miami-Dade County Parks, Recreation and Open Spaces Project meeting/update via Zoom, Nov. 19, 6 PM. Info and links provided.

REMINDER - MEETING IS SET FOR THURSDAY - Nov. 19 6 PM. Attend from the comfort of your home or from wherever best suits you.

Engage. Participate. Important public meeting is set and you can attend from the comfort of your home or office! No travel required.

The LUDLAM TRAIL will be a 5.6-mile, iconic greenway with paths for biking, walking, and running, connecting the heart of Miami-Dade. The trail will link schools, parks, transit, homes, workplaces and spots to shop & dine. 

The land was recently purchased by Miami-Dade County; a Project Development & Environment study and design of the trail are now underway. Stretching north-south from Robert King High Park to Downtown Kendall, this trail will form part of the “Miami Loop” in the county’s network of bikeways, along with the Underline. 

(CLICK HERE) to view the Public Information Meeting as well as the Ludlum Trail Corridor PD&E Study Virtual Public Meeting Invitation (2 pages of .PDF) where more information is available as well as how to register and participate in the virtual meeting. 

Miami-Dade County Parks, Recreation and Open Spaces is performing a Project Development and Environment (PD&E) Study for the 5.6-mile-long Ludlam Trail Corridor from SW 80th Street to 400 feet north of NW 7th Street, generally following the north-south alignment of what would be NW/SW 69th Avenue, within the former Florida East Coast (FEC) Railway right-of-way. The project is located in unincorporated Miami-Dade County and the City of Miami, Florida.

The purpose of the Ludlam Trail is to provide a new shared-use trail in Miami-Dade County that will include safe, dedicated, direct pathways for walking, running, and cycling; to encourage active lifestyles and the use of green, non-motorized modes of transportation; and to enhance overall connectivity and accessibility between schools, parks, transit stops and residences, workplaces and shopping.

The proposed project supports the vision to provide an interconnected trail system offering transportation alternatives and reducing traffic congestion for a livable, sustainable County. Ludlam Trail will be a vital component of a seamless network of future greenway trails and water trails connecting to the Metrorail Dadeland North Station to the south and to other planned trails including The Underline/East Coast Greenway, South Dade Trail, Snapper Creek Trail, East/West Trail and Merrick Trail. It will enhance mobility and strengthen connections to neighboring communities, providing increased opportunities for economic development. 

Join our PD&E Virtual Public Information Meeting on Thursday, Nov. 19 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Ludlam Trail PD&E Fact Sheet 
Ludlam Trail PD&E Virtual Meeting invitation

Topic

Ludlam Trail PD&E - Virtual Public Information Meeting

Description

The Miami-Dade County Parks, Recreation and Open Spaces invites you to attend a Virtual Public Meeting regarding the proposed Ludlam Trail Corridor.

The virtual meeting will include a presentation of work in progress and include an interactive opportunity to ask questions and make suggestions about the project. This virtual meeting is being held to allow interested persons an opportunity to be informed about the proposed trail and provide comments. There will be a brief presentation at the beginning of the meeting starting at 6:15 pm.

Time

Nov 19, 2020 06:00 PM in Eastern Time (US and Canada)

Prior related posts - Ludlum Trail:

July 29, 2015, The Warren County Bike Trail - I contend that this is a model for the Ludlum Trail

October 4, 2019, NY Government for improved natural/recreational facilities. “DEC: Rail line should be deemed “interim trail”.

October 21, 2020, Tune in and Participate. Miami-Dade County Parks, Recreation and Open Spaces is performing a Project Development and Environment (PD&E) Study for the 5.6-mile-long Ludlam Trail Corridor.

I hope to see you there!