Here are two groups that I would like to specially recognize: Miami is Kind and Oliver's Cakes & Catering- both have committed to participating at our 2016 Palmetto Bay Independence Day Celebration. Come hungry - support our local chefs. Take a look at what they do.
READ UP on the mission of Miami is Kind: http://www.miamiiskind.org/
Their first product line is gluten free, deliciously healthy gourmet artisan macaroons - featured at a village council meeting!
Come on our to our annual celebration and support two great groups! This is what community is all about! #TeamPalmettoBay.
A big thank you to Liede & Frank DeValdivielso for putting me together with Silvia Planas-Prats and family - who are the catalysts for Miami is Kind
Susan Robinson Lauredo and her son Oliver are outstanding. Son Oliver presented me with a special desert back at an event in 2004.
No one will come away disappointed in what they have to offer. I look forward to seeing everyone on Monday.
Eugene Flinn, Mayor
Village of Palmetto Bay
South Dade Updates. My best method for keeping everyone up to date on important matters affecting our community.
Friday, July 1, 2016
Wednesday, June 29, 2016
Free Microchipping - FREE - Palmetto Bay's Coral Reef Park on Saturday, July 16, from 10 AM to 2:00 PM.
Is your pet microchipped? No more excuses - I am hounding you to get it done and here is your opportunity.
I am pleased to be the local event sponsor - coming to Palmetto Bay's Coral Reef Park on Saturday, July 16, from 10 AM to 2:00 PM.
Please join Miami-Dade County Commissioner Levine Cava, Pinecrest, Cutler Bay and Palmetto Bay on Saturday, July 16 from 10 am - 2 pm for the Dogs Of Summer Training And Adoption Expo!
I hope to see you there.
Please also see my prior post of June 24, 2016: Saturday, July 16 - 10 am - 2 pm - Dogs Of Summer Training And Adoption Expo! for more information.
I am pleased to be the local event sponsor - coming to Palmetto Bay's Coral Reef Park on Saturday, July 16, from 10 AM to 2:00 PM.
Please join Miami-Dade County Commissioner Levine Cava, Pinecrest, Cutler Bay and Palmetto Bay on Saturday, July 16 from 10 am - 2 pm for the Dogs Of Summer Training And Adoption Expo!
Please also see my prior post of June 24, 2016: Saturday, July 16 - 10 am - 2 pm - Dogs Of Summer Training And Adoption Expo! for more information.
The 2016 Mango Season is here (and I also have the lemon trees producing as well).
The 2016 Mango season has arrived! I have Haden and Tommy Atkins mango varieties. And this year, as an added bonus, my Eureka and Meyer Lemons are producing in good numbers.
The many home-based mango stands have begin begun their seasonal operations here in the Pinecrest, Palmetto / Cutler Bay areas. Area youth (and some resourceful adults) have begun the fierce competition in Palmetto Bay, which I have observed to be the epicenter of youth run quality mango stands!
WHERE TO SHOP: Try driving 152, 144, 136 (area) streets; 72, (north area>) of 77th, 82nd or 87th avenues most weekends in the next few weeks and it is usually hard not to find an open home mango seller. The sales market is very competitive in the area and enterprising kids as well as some adults have their stands that have actually built seasonal consumer loyalty.
Regardless, get ready for fresh mango, mango salsa, mango smoothie, mango salad, mango fruitcake, mango chutney mango jam! Support your local grower and South Dade agriculture!
I think we all should be permitted an agricultural property tax exemption on our homes! Support your home agriculturalist, buy local area mangos!
RECIPES FOR MANGOS
Food dot com has a listing of mango recipes including Mango Pies and Tarts, Mango Canning, Mango Desserts, Salads, Smoothies; well, you get the idea. CLICK HERE to view the online article.
TECHNICAL READING FOR MANGOS
Have a tree not doing well, or just trying to improve the production? I recommend the following online article (click the title to read) Mango Growing in the Florida Home Landscape published by the Horticultural Sciences Department, Florida Cooperative Extension Service, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, University of Florida.
The many home-based mango stands have begin begun their seasonal operations here in the Pinecrest, Palmetto / Cutler Bay areas. Area youth (and some resourceful adults) have begun the fierce competition in Palmetto Bay, which I have observed to be the epicenter of youth run quality mango stands!
WHERE TO SHOP: Try driving 152, 144, 136 (area) streets; 72, (north area>) of 77th, 82nd or 87th avenues most weekends in the next few weeks and it is usually hard not to find an open home mango seller. The sales market is very competitive in the area and enterprising kids as well as some adults have their stands that have actually built seasonal consumer loyalty.
Regardless, get ready for fresh mango, mango salsa, mango smoothie, mango salad, mango fruitcake, mango chutney mango jam! Support your local grower and South Dade agriculture!
I think we all should be permitted an agricultural property tax exemption on our homes! Support your home agriculturalist, buy local area mangos!
RECIPES FOR MANGOS
Food dot com has a listing of mango recipes including Mango Pies and Tarts, Mango Canning, Mango Desserts, Salads, Smoothies; well, you get the idea. CLICK HERE to view the online article.
TECHNICAL READING FOR MANGOS
Have a tree not doing well, or just trying to improve the production? I recommend the following online article (click the title to read) Mango Growing in the Florida Home Landscape published by the Horticultural Sciences Department, Florida Cooperative Extension Service, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, University of Florida.
Friday, June 24, 2016
Community reminder - 4th of July celebration here in Hometown Palmetto Bay
Confirm your plans to meet up with neighbors, friends and family, this 4th of July - your hometown Palmetto Bay celebration!
Celebrate America's 240th Birthday on a
grand scale from 5 pm-10 pm. The
Village will ring in Independence Day with patriotic spirit and pride in
a day filled with wholesome, all-American fun for the entire family!
The big moment--- an explosive 22-minute fireworks show, launched from
Palmetto Bay Park, happens at 9:30 pm. This event is FREE to the public. CLICK HERE to view the official Palmetto Bay web site for more information.
This is our third year hosting Independence Day right here in our Village and it is gearing up to be the best one yet! Come and celebrate with us.
This is a holiday to celebrate, the day we celebrate the birth of our great nation, the creation of the greatest system of freedom and democracy. All of this occurred due to the great physical and financial sacrifice of the founders of this nation, the brave men and women of yesterday and today who have sacrificed so greatly to ensure the traditions bestowed by our remarkable founders. We owe them vigilance, and the willingness to defend the democracy they have passed on to us.
Independence Day has been celebrated since 1776. But do you know the year that July 4 officially made a Federal Holiday? Would you believe 1941? Check out the History.com page regarding July 4, for additional information.
Let's not forget about our pets this holiday weekend. It Will Be a Stressful Evening For Them. Pets and fireworks don't mix. Plan now to keep your pet safe. CLICK HERE to view the pet-specific post regarding safeguarding your pets on the Fourth of July.
FINALLY, FIREWORKS SAFETY Please be smart if you plan on being your own pyrotechnician CLICK HERE and review the "Fireworks Safety" brochure put out by Miami-Dade Fire Rescue’s Fire Prevention Division. Have fun and be safe.
Happy Independence Day – 2016
Celebrate America's 240th Birthday on a
grand scale from 5 pm-10 pm. The
Village will ring in Independence Day with patriotic spirit and pride in
a day filled with wholesome, all-American fun for the entire family!
The big moment--- an explosive 22-minute fireworks show, launched from
Palmetto Bay Park, happens at 9:30 pm. This event is FREE to the public. CLICK HERE to view the official Palmetto Bay web site for more information. This is our third year hosting Independence Day right here in our Village and it is gearing up to be the best one yet! Come and celebrate with us.
This is a holiday to celebrate, the day we celebrate the birth of our great nation, the creation of the greatest system of freedom and democracy. All of this occurred due to the great physical and financial sacrifice of the founders of this nation, the brave men and women of yesterday and today who have sacrificed so greatly to ensure the traditions bestowed by our remarkable founders. We owe them vigilance, and the willingness to defend the democracy they have passed on to us.
Independence Day has been celebrated since 1776. But do you know the year that July 4 officially made a Federal Holiday? Would you believe 1941? Check out the History.com page regarding July 4, for additional information.
Let's not forget about our pets this holiday weekend. It Will Be a Stressful Evening For Them. Pets and fireworks don't mix. Plan now to keep your pet safe. CLICK HERE to view the pet-specific post regarding safeguarding your pets on the Fourth of July.
FINALLY, FIREWORKS SAFETY Please be smart if you plan on being your own pyrotechnician CLICK HERE and review the "Fireworks Safety" brochure put out by Miami-Dade Fire Rescue’s Fire Prevention Division. Have fun and be safe.
Happy Independence Day – 2016
Plan to protect your pets this Fourth of July Holiday.
Protect your pets on this fourth of July holiday - it is not a 'pet-friendly" holiday. They don't understand what all the ruckus is about.
A
wiser choice for your pet is for you to bring your pet inside the house
and make sure that your special friend is safely tucked into a room
with a television or radio on. It is recommended that if you are not staying home with your pet,
make sure that their favorite hiding spot is available so they can run
to a place in the house where they feel safe ---- this could be under
the bed, in the closet or even their pet crate. If you are home, stay
near them, speak to them and let them know that they are safe.
You may have success with a pet shirt that is called a "Thundershirt" which fits snugly around your pets torso to make them feel calmer and more secure.
If you keep your pets outside, make sure your gate is locked so that they can not run off into the street in a panic. Remember that chaining your animal is not acceptable nor safe.
July
4th is a busy day for pet shelters. Many pets get frightened and run
off during fireworks. Pets are severely distressed by the noise of
fireworks. Remember, dogs' and cats' hearing is much more sensitive
than ours so those loud booms can be extremely uncomfortable!
Please take the time - CLICK HERE - to view a .PDF put out by Miami-Dade County Animal Services - July 4th Pet Safety Tips
You may have success with a pet shirt that is called a "Thundershirt" which fits snugly around your pets torso to make them feel calmer and more secure.
If you keep your pets outside, make sure your gate is locked so that they can not run off into the street in a panic. Remember that chaining your animal is not acceptable nor safe.
At no time, take your animal with you and lock them in the car. On
an 85 degree day the temperature inside a car even with the windows
cracked open can reach 102 degrees within just 10 minutes; after 30
minutes the temperature will reach 120 degrees.
Saturday, July 16 - 10 am - 2 pm - Dogs Of Summer Training And Adoption Expo!
Dogs Of Summer Training And Adoption Expo!
coming to Palmetto Bay on Saturday, July 16 - 10 am to 2 pm I am pleased to be the local event sponsor - coming to Palmetto Bay's Coral Reef Park on Saturday, July 16, from 10 AM to 2:00 PM.
Please join Miami-Dade County Commissioner Levine Cava, Pinecrest, Cutler Bay and Palmetto Bay on Saturday, July 16 from 10 am - 2 pm for the Dogs Of Summer Training And Adoption Expo!
There are many reasons to attend. Come and select a friend for life - there will be on-site adoptions.
Protect your current pet! There will be free microchipping, information on the importance of spaying and neutering pets, free training workshops, dog wash, free giveaways, food trucks, and many other surprises for you and your pup.
Don’t miss this pawesome* event and information workshop for you and your pup!
Interested vendors should contact district8@miamidade.gov for more information.
Editor's note - I take no responsibility for that pun. It came from the Commissioner's office!
Wednesday, June 22, 2016
Traffic holiday - shorter commutes - ability to take advange of our beautiful village for outdoor morning exercise
We all enjoy relief from traffic once school takes summer break, whether a commuter or simply want to be able to get outside and enjoy our natural surroundings. Wednesday, June 22, was a beautiful morning to get outside in Palmetto Bay. Its nice to be able to enjoy our outdoors to get some exercise prior to heading off to a rich and full day at the office as well as within our village. Remember - the Mayor's Challenge is never over - we all continue to live healthy here -
Get Fit Palmetto Bay!"
Get Fit Palmetto Bay!"
Tuesday, June 21, 2016
Friday, June 17, 2016
Congrats to Palmetto Bay's Larissa Siegel Lara. EYE ON MIAMI: Eye on Miami 2016 Political Beauty Contest Winner:...
EYE ON MIAMI: Eye on Miami 2016 Political Beauty Contest Winner:...: 2016 Political Beauty Contest Winner I can't even remember if I held a contest in 2015 but past winners include Christine Fraga, Osca...
Eye on Miami 2016 Political Beauty Contest Winner: Councilwoman Lara Siegel of Palmetto Bay. By Geniusofdespair -
This is not to be taken lightly. The bloggers at Eye On Miami are very critical and they never are shy about calling people out. This Eye On Miami post represents an outstanding positive mention concerning one of the hardest working members of our village Council.
Council Member Siegel Lara is currently hard at work with staff completing our Palmetto Bay updated Strategic Plan. The final presentation will be at the July 11 council meeting. Council Member Siegel Lara has an outstanding eye for detail and always comes to meetings well-prepared. She is a strong advocate for public participation, particularly as to our village parks. She has been one of my most important partners in regard to transportation initiatives, including traffic calming efforts.
As Eye On Miami notes:
Congratulations Larissa, it is my honor to serve along side you.
Eye on Miami 2016 Political Beauty Contest Winner: Councilwoman Lara Siegel of Palmetto Bay. By Geniusofdespair -
This is not to be taken lightly. The bloggers at Eye On Miami are very critical and they never are shy about calling people out. This Eye On Miami post represents an outstanding positive mention concerning one of the hardest working members of our village Council.
Council Member Siegel Lara is currently hard at work with staff completing our Palmetto Bay updated Strategic Plan. The final presentation will be at the July 11 council meeting. Council Member Siegel Lara has an outstanding eye for detail and always comes to meetings well-prepared. She is a strong advocate for public participation, particularly as to our village parks. She has been one of my most important partners in regard to transportation initiatives, including traffic calming efforts.
As Eye On Miami notes:
I picked Larissa (Siegel Lara) with great thought, not basing it just on her exceptional beauty. I watched this video and I was impressed with her intellect and poise. I met her briefly at County Commissioner Xavier Suarez's fundraising gala and remember she was well appointed dress-wise - very elegant in a demure way.Click the link above, or CLICK HERE to view the entire Eye On Miami post.
Congratulations Larissa, it is my honor to serve along side you.
Thursday, June 16, 2016
Local Gator? Statewide Nuisance Alligator Program - SNAP. FWC Alligator Management Program
This posting is in response to questions I have been receiving involving our local alligator population.
We have numerous alligators and even crocodiles traversing our local canals here in Palmetto Bay.
There are some hard and fast rules regarding these reptiles.
First of all - it is illegal - as well as ill-advised to feed or molest any alligator or crocodile you may encounter. Feeding will cause alligators to both become dependent upon humans for their food as well as leading them to lose their fear of humans.
Second, please report any issues to the proper authorities who are legally set up to resolve any issues. (I do ask to be copied on any reports to SFWMD and/or FWC -eflinn@palmettobay-fl.gov)
Here is a link to the official FWC brochure: "A Guide to Living with Alligators"
We have numerous alligators and even crocodiles traversing our local canals here in Palmetto Bay.
There are some hard and fast rules regarding these reptiles.
First of all - it is illegal - as well as ill-advised to feed or molest any alligator or crocodile you may encounter. Feeding will cause alligators to both become dependent upon humans for their food as well as leading them to lose their fear of humans.
Second, please report any issues to the proper authorities who are legally set up to resolve any issues. (I do ask to be copied on any reports to SFWMD and/or FWC -eflinn@palmettobay-fl.gov)
Here is a link to the official FWC brochure: "A Guide to Living with Alligators"
Nuisance Alligator Hotline: 866-FWC-GATOR
I am referring you to the FWC web site. Please review the SNAP program below:
The Statewide Nuisance Alligator Program (SNAP) is administered by the FWC's Division of Hunting and Game Management. SNAP is one of five components of Florida’s comprehensive Alligator Management Program. Its mission is to address complaints concerning alligators.
Persons with concerns about an alligator may call our toll-free Nuisance Alligator Hotline at 866-FWC-GATOR (866-392-4286). Generally, an alligator may be deemed a nuisance if it is at least four feet in length and the caller believes it poses a threat to people, pets or property.
SNAP uses contracted nuisance alligator trappers throughout the state to remove alligators from locations where they are unwanted or unwelcome. If a complaint meets the qualifying criteria, SNAP will issue a permit to a contracted nuisance alligator trapper authorizing the removal of the animal.
Complainants must be able to grant legal access to the property on which the alligator is located. SNAP does not permit the removal of nuisance alligators from private or publicly managed property without first obtaining permission from the property owner or management authority.
In 2015, SNAP received 13,962 nuisance alligator complaints resulting in the removal of 7,513 nuisance alligators.http://myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/managed/alligator/nuisance/
Wednesday, June 15, 2016
Exciting update on our Miami-Dade Fire Rescue Station - Station 62
I have an exciting update regarding the upcoming Station 62. This station is planned for Old Cutler Road - this is the property located on the North End of OCPC, East side of Old Cutler.
The rendering below is of the permanent fire station. It is presently under design, the rendering just being released and the station is slated for construction with an opening in 2017.
There will be a temporary station set up on the neighboring property. This temporary station will be opened and operational by late July, 2016.
I look forward to enhanced life-safety serving the Villages of Palmetto Bay and Pinecrest as well as the Town of Cutler Bay.
Thank you for your continued interest. Please contact me at eflinn@palmettobay-fl.gov if you have any questions or concerns.
Eugene Flinn, Mayor,
Village of Palmetto Bay
The rendering below is of the permanent fire station. It is presently under design, the rendering just being released and the station is slated for construction with an opening in 2017.
There will be a temporary station set up on the neighboring property. This temporary station will be opened and operational by late July, 2016.
![]() |
| Official Miami-Dade County rendering of Palmetto Bay Station 62 |
Thank you for your continued interest. Please contact me at eflinn@palmettobay-fl.gov if you have any questions or concerns.
Eugene Flinn, Mayor,
Village of Palmetto Bay
Tuesday, June 14, 2016
Today, June 14, is Flag Day - Fly it proudly - its more important than ever!
June 14 is officially designated as “Flag Day.” Flag Day 2016 is made even more important due to the Orlando Terror/Hate Crime attack. At this time, all U.S. Flags should be flown at half-staff.
We continue to pray for those attacked so brutally in Orlando. We will remember the victims and their families. They will not be forgotten. Please take action in your own way against acts of terror. There are active things to do to combat hate and violence. Remember that we all are our brothers keeper.
June 14, 1777 is the date that Congress officially adopted our nation’s flag.
The U.S. flag has been modified 26 times since its adoption in 1777. Today's 50-star flag, created in 1960, has been in use the longest. Check out: Flag Day 2013: 9 things you never knew about the American Flag for interesting reading/facts sbout this day and the American Flag.
We continue to pray for those attacked so brutally in Orlando. We will remember the victims and their families. They will not be forgotten. Please take action in your own way against acts of terror. There are active things to do to combat hate and violence. Remember that we all are our brothers keeper.
June 14, 1777 is the date that Congress officially adopted our nation’s flag.
The U.S. flag has been modified 26 times since its adoption in 1777. Today's 50-star flag, created in 1960, has been in use the longest. Check out: Flag Day 2013: 9 things you never knew about the American Flag for interesting reading/facts sbout this day and the American Flag.
Thank you,
Eugene Flinn, Mayor
Village of Palmetto Bay
Monday, June 13, 2016
Critical proposed changes to the Charter - full hearing to occur at a special council meeting June 15, 7 PM
Click here to view the full recommendations from the Charter
Review Commission (7 pages). It is important to note that none of these recommendations have been considered
by the full council. To date, only the Vice Mayor (who was a member of
this Charter Review Commission), has considered and participated in
these recommendations.
The Village Council will consider and then accept, reject or move forward amended recommendations to the vote of the village electorate. It is you, the voters, who will make the final decision.
Changes to the charter should not be taken lightly. That is why I moved the presentation of these recommended ballot issues to a special council meeting, where they can receive the attention that each deserves.
I ask that everyone take the time to review our Village Charter. The Charter is our constitution.
I have a record of questioning charter changes - read a November 2nd, 2012, post on charter changes that were proposed in our past (2012) (CLICK HERE).
The Charter Revision Commission will be presenting the proposed Charter Revisions to the Village Council during this Special Council Meeting , June 15th at 7pm at Village Hall.
As always, I am also available by phone - (305) 302-3713
Thank you. This is your community and it is made better through your participation.
Eugene Flinn, Mayor
Village of Palmetto Bay
Friday, June 3, 2016
Thursday, May 26, 2016
Memorial Day 2016: You are invited to American Legion Post 133.The remembrance poppy and the poem In Flanders Fields.
Monday is Memorial Day, a day to honor the brave men and women who gave
up their lives in defense of our ideals and country. We owe our peace and
democracy to them.We must continue to remember the sons and daughters, brothers and sisters, mothers and fathers who have lost their lives on our behalf. May they rest in peace. Thank you.
YOU ARE INVITED - to remember Memorial Day Monday, May 30, at the American Legion Marlin Moore Post #133, Village of Palmetto Bay.
All patriotic members of our community are cordially invited to attend the Memorial Day Ceremony honoring our departed sister and brother veterans on May 30 at Marlin Moore Post #133, 16401 SW 90th Avenue.
Coffee and donuts will be served from 9:30am to 10:30am.
The Ceremony will begin at 11:00am. After the service a hamburger and hotdog cookout for all.
Please feel free to stop by and thank a veteran.
____________________________________
Brief History: The first Memorial Day was officially proclaimed on May 5, 1868, by General John Logan, national commander of the Grand Army of the Republic. On Memorial Day, we honor the men and women in uniform who gave their lives in service to our Nation. Memorial Day is celebrated at Arlington National Cemetery each year with a ceremony in which a small American flag is placed on each grave. Traditionally, the President or Vice President lays a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. The occasion is also marked in almost every State on the last Monday in May.
Congress established the National Moment of Remembrance at 3 p.m., local time, on Memorial Day, asking Americans wherever they are to pause in an act of national unity. The Moment does not replace traditional Memorial Day events; rather it is an act of national unity in which all Americans, alone or with family and friends, honor those who died for our freedom.
The flag should be flown at half staff until noon on this Memorial Day on all buildings, grounds and naval vessels throughout the United States, and in all areas under its jurisdiction and control. All people of the United States are requested to display the flag at half-staff from their homes for the customary period.
__________
The Remembrance Poppy and the Poem, "In Flanders Field"
“In Flanders Fields" was written on May 3, 1915 by Lt. Col. John McCrae who was a physician, poet, author, artist and soldier serving in World I. Flanders is a region of Europe that comprises parts of Belgium and France. This poem resulted in the remembrancepoppy becoming one of the world's most recognized memorial symbols for soldiers who have died in conflict.
This
poem can be found online at http://www.arlingtoncemetery.net/flanders.htm
In
Flanders Fields
By:
Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae, MD (1872-1918) Canadian
Army
In Flanders Fields the poppies blow
Between the crosses row on row,
That mark our place; and in the sky
The larks, still bravely singing, fly
Scarce heard amid the guns below.
We are the Dead. Short days ago
Between the crosses row on row,
That mark our place; and in the sky
The larks, still bravely singing, fly
Scarce heard amid the guns below.
We are the Dead. Short days ago
We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,
Loved and were loved, and now we lie
In Flanders fields.
Take up our quarrel with the foe:
Loved and were loved, and now we lie
In Flanders fields.
Take up our quarrel with the foe:
To you from failing hands we throw
The torch; be yours to hold it high.
If ye break faith with us who die
We shall not sleep, though poppies grow
In Flanders fields.
_______The torch; be yours to hold it high.
If ye break faith with us who die
We shall not sleep, though poppies grow
In Flanders fields.
Questions about how and when to properly display the US Flag? One of many online resources: http://www.afa.org/members/uscode.asp
Thursday, May 19, 2016
2016 Ride of Silence May 18, 2016, Key Biscayne, Florida
It was my honor - and responsibility to participate in the 2016 Ride of Silence held on Key Biscayne.
This is a local event of a worldwide movement designed to raise awareness of cycling deaths, injuries and remembering those no longer with us, killed while riding. I was inspired by Maribel Reyes (who lost her husband one year earlier near the starting point) & the bike community leaders that I'm proud to call my friends. I join the, in hoping there are no new reasons to do a Ride of Silence. Thank you to all the organizers and sponsors who worked hard to make this event possible.
See NCB6 report - Ride of Silence Held in Key Biscayne, Stephanie Bertini reports
I am in a unique position on this issue, however, and ask my fellow council members to work with me to move bike safety off the planning stage and onto the implementation stage. Bikes are a fact of life on our road. They need room to be safe. Drivers need room to pass them safely as well as to operate their vehicles. See the 2006 law (as contained in a 2015 amendment) - The driver of a vehicle overtaking a bicycle or other nonmotorized vehicle must pass the bicycle or other nonmotorized vehicle at a safe distance of not less than 3 feet between the vehicle and the bicycle or other nonmotorized vehicle.
This is a local event of a worldwide movement designed to raise awareness of cycling deaths, injuries and remembering those no longer with us, killed while riding. I was inspired by Maribel Reyes (who lost her husband one year earlier near the starting point) & the bike community leaders that I'm proud to call my friends. I join the, in hoping there are no new reasons to do a Ride of Silence. Thank you to all the organizers and sponsors who worked hard to make this event possible.
See NCB6 report - Ride of Silence Held in Key Biscayne, Stephanie Bertini reports
I am in a unique position on this issue, however, and ask my fellow council members to work with me to move bike safety off the planning stage and onto the implementation stage. Bikes are a fact of life on our road. They need room to be safe. Drivers need room to pass them safely as well as to operate their vehicles. See the 2006 law (as contained in a 2015 amendment) - The driver of a vehicle overtaking a bicycle or other nonmotorized vehicle must pass the bicycle or other nonmotorized vehicle at a safe distance of not less than 3 feet between the vehicle and the bicycle or other nonmotorized vehicle.
Don’t drivers want,
require, more room along our roads to operate?
It is time to focus
on an issue long overdue for completion – the bicycle lanes in Palmetto Bay.
I am working with neighboring
municipalities and Daniella Levine Cava, our County Commissioner, but it requires
the support of a majority of our own village council to make it a reality.
Palmetto Bay
is a municipal partner of Miami-Dade County Bike305,
and this will continue under my leadership. I will continue to support and work
with groups such as the Green Mobility Network.
Let's all continue to work together and make biking even more accessible, more fun and most of all, safer for all involved.
Let's all continue to work together and make biking even more accessible, more fun and most of all, safer for all involved.
![]() |
Above: I am
photographed with Maribel Reyes Frankie Ruiz,
Sue Kawalerski, Eli Stiers and
Ralph Rosado
|
![]() |
Pictured above: Libia Casas, Eugene Flinn, Ana Rivas Logan,
Belen
Valladares, Guillermo Cremati, and Mercy Maturrano
|
Wednesday, May 18, 2016
NOTICE: Town Hall Meeting - Palmetto Bay Parks - Monday, May 23, 6 PM - Village Hall
I have asked for a Town Hall meeting to discuss our parks. We have already begun work on our 2016-2017 budget. Hearings are held in September, but the actual budget prep goes on throughout each Summer. It is time to take a look at one of the biggest areas of our budget - Parks which represents an expenditure of approximately $2,439,000.00 ($1.842, plus $597,000.00) of our total budget (CLICK HERE to view the 2015-2016 adopted budget) note that the largest single department expense is Police at $7,101,950.
$2,439,000.00 is a big number. Please make plans to attend and give input on the future of our village parks. These are your/our parks.
My priorities? Here are a few (the list is very expansive and what follows are only a part, far from all): Saving and maintaining environmentally sensitive areas and green space (capital expense), continual upgrades of our passive areas - continue the upgrades such as the rubberized walking paths, increased youth and senior programs - funding for our Youth Board and a new focus on special needs programing - an important area of services that our the village council needs to address.
We all have our priorities. Special events is blended with parks - and this town hall meeting would also be a good time to talk about ALL activities involving parks - what would you like to see more movie nights, date nights at Thalatta, more yoga, more senior programing?
We want, we need to hear from you.
From the official village web site:
Monday, May 23, 2016 - 6 pm
$2,439,000.00 is a big number. Please make plans to attend and give input on the future of our village parks. These are your/our parks.
My priorities? Here are a few (the list is very expansive and what follows are only a part, far from all): Saving and maintaining environmentally sensitive areas and green space (capital expense), continual upgrades of our passive areas - continue the upgrades such as the rubberized walking paths, increased youth and senior programs - funding for our Youth Board and a new focus on special needs programing - an important area of services that our the village council needs to address.
We all have our priorities. Special events is blended with parks - and this town hall meeting would also be a good time to talk about ALL activities involving parks - what would you like to see more movie nights, date nights at Thalatta, more yoga, more senior programing?
We want, we need to hear from you.
From the official village web site:
Monday, May 23, 2016 - 6 pm
The Village of Palmetto Bay shall be holding a Town Hall Meeting on Monday, May 23, 2016, at 6 pm concerning the Village’s Parks. The meeting shall be held in the Village Hall Chambers at Village Hall, 9705 E. Hibiscus Street, Palmetto Bay, FL. More than one member of the Village Council will be present and may discuss items of importance to the Village.
Any person may contact the Village Hall at (305) 259-1234 for information. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, persons needing special accommodation (or if hearing impaired) to participate in this proceeding or to review any documents relative thereto should contact the Village for assistance at (305) 259-1234 no later than four (4) days prior to the proceedings.
Or CLICK HERE
Monday, May 16, 2016
Manager's Traffic Town Hall Meeting - this Thursday, May 19, 2016, 7 PM
Our village manager has set an official town hall meeting as a continuation of the outstanding neighborhood meeting that was held last Friday. Here is my unofficial notice of this upcoming and important meeting.
The Village of Palmetto Bay (through the Manager) will be holding a Town Hall Meeting on Thursday, May 16, 2016, at 7 pm concerning the neighborhood traffic initiative scheduled for the 84th Avenue neighborhood. The meeting shall be held in the Village Hall Chambers at Village Hall, 9705 E. Hibiscus Street, Palmetto Bay, FL.
More than one member of the Village Council will be present and may discuss items of importance to the Village.
See my prior post of May 12th: Notice:Aggressive measures proposed to address traffic - be forewarned and let's continue the dialogue - for background information – and thank you again to all who attended the neighborhood meeting held last Friday – a great meeting where significant input was provided. This meeting is in follow up to that session – again, thank you to our hosts for that neighborhood meeting. As stated by participant Erica Watts: Well done to our meeting hosts. Ileah Frost-Hoppner and Hillary Girard Sturkie. Thank you Bob Buzzelli.Also thank you to Melanie Stoia as well. The neighborhood hosts (and the issue) brought out many residents and will hopefully lead to some great block parties once this matter concludes.
The Village of Palmetto Bay (through the Manager) will be holding a Town Hall Meeting on Thursday, May 16, 2016, at 7 pm concerning the neighborhood traffic initiative scheduled for the 84th Avenue neighborhood. The meeting shall be held in the Village Hall Chambers at Village Hall, 9705 E. Hibiscus Street, Palmetto Bay, FL.
More than one member of the Village Council will be present and may discuss items of importance to the Village.
See my prior post of May 12th: Notice:Aggressive measures proposed to address traffic - be forewarned and let's continue the dialogue - for background information – and thank you again to all who attended the neighborhood meeting held last Friday – a great meeting where significant input was provided. This meeting is in follow up to that session – again, thank you to our hosts for that neighborhood meeting. As stated by participant Erica Watts: Well done to our meeting hosts. Ileah Frost-Hoppner and Hillary Girard Sturkie. Thank you Bob Buzzelli.Also thank you to Melanie Stoia as well. The neighborhood hosts (and the issue) brought out many residents and will hopefully lead to some great block parties once this matter concludes.
Any person
may contact the Village Hall at (305) 259-1234 for information. In accordance with the Americans with
Disabilities Act of 1990, persons needing special accommodation (or if hearing
impaired) to participate in this proceeding or to review any documents relative
thereto should contact the Village for assistance at (305) 259-1234 no later
than four (4) days prior to the proceedings.
This meeting has not been listed on the Village website as of 8:00 AM, Monday, May 16, 2016, so I
am taking the liberty of providing this special advance (and note - unofficial notice). When posted, the official notice will be posted
on the official website at PalmettoBay.gov, specifically on its “Public
Meetings” page (CLICK HERE).
Thank you
for your continued interest. I look forward to continuing to work with everyone
to improve our traffic management.
Eugene Flinn, Mayor
Palmetto Bay
POD New speed trailer - LPR (license plate reader capable) coming to Palmetto Bay
Photo of the day.
This is a new delivery police equipment budged for this current fiscal year (2016-17). Village Police Commander Serralta is inside checking out a new tool to help calm our traffic issues.
This unit comes equipped with a license plate reader and is solar-powered. It will be fully operation soon and will be coming to a street near you.
I am pleased that our Police Commander focuses on traffic enforcement - a priority issue in Palmetto Bay.
Serious business, though many have taken a humorous look at this photo and mentioned that we looked behind the curtain and found the secret to the LPR (License Plate Reader) speed trailer. It's an officer hidden inside with binoculars and a note pad.
Obviously, this trailer will be deployed throughout the village as another tool to limit cut through speeders in our village.
Eugene Flinn, Mayor
Village of Palmetto Bay.
This is a new delivery police equipment budged for this current fiscal year (2016-17). Village Police Commander Serralta is inside checking out a new tool to help calm our traffic issues.
This unit comes equipped with a license plate reader and is solar-powered. It will be fully operation soon and will be coming to a street near you.
I am pleased that our Police Commander focuses on traffic enforcement - a priority issue in Palmetto Bay.
Serious business, though many have taken a humorous look at this photo and mentioned that we looked behind the curtain and found the secret to the LPR (License Plate Reader) speed trailer. It's an officer hidden inside with binoculars and a note pad.
Obviously, this trailer will be deployed throughout the village as another tool to limit cut through speeders in our village.
Eugene Flinn, Mayor
Village of Palmetto Bay.
Thursday, May 12, 2016
Notice: Aggressive measures proposed to address traffic - be forewarned and let's continue the dialogue
I am pleased to be part of this village council as we return to an aggressive traffic calming program as designed through our village manager and village staff. We are seeking new methods to address our traffic issues.
I offer the following both as notification as well as to stimulate discussion as to our efforts to manage traffic. Note that this is a very aggressive program and I am sure the proposed will be met with a full range of reactions.
From Ed Silva, Village Manager:
I offer the following both as notification as well as to stimulate discussion as to our efforts to manage traffic. Note that this is a very aggressive program and I am sure the proposed will be met with a full range of reactions.
From Ed Silva, Village Manager:
Council, we are
contemplating a test in the area designated below for the remaining of the
School year as a traffic calming initiative. Depending on the results and public input we may come back to Council and begin implementation of this half closure of certain streets Village wide. If this works, the solution would be to use landscape, curbing and allow for bicycle ingress and egress on the section that is being closed. We are doing this in conjunction with manning the signal with a Police Officer on SW 82 Ave and SW 168 Street to ensure flow through the neighborhood at rush hour.
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| Updated photo - 10:10 AM 5-12-16 |
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