Dear Friends and Neighbors,
I hope you are enjoying your summer so far. While historically a slower time, the past couple of years in Miami Beach have seen increased tourism and events eliminating any doubt that Miami Beach is no longer a seasonal destination; instead we have become an around the year hot spot. This week kicks off Mercedes Benz Swimsuit Fashion Week, Funkshion Summer Fashion Week and numerous shows, events and soirees associated therewith. I hope to see you at one or many of the upcoming events.
Yesterday the Miami Beach Commission had a lengthy meeting which was the first with Interim City Manager Kathie Brooks. There was much speculation about the City Commission resolving a severance package for the former City Manager but it became clear prior to the meeting that the Commission did not have enough information to do so. The Commission did approve an interim management contract for Ms. Brooks that eliminated numerous costs associated with the prior manager’s compensation including no housing allowance and much reduced insurance and pension contributions. By my estimation, the Commission is paying Ms. Brooks at least $115,000 less per year than the prior manager in total compensation. The compensation package is more in line with what is appropriate.
Additionally, the City Commission set a tax rate ceiling calling for one million dollars in property tax reductions for property owners compared with last year’s millage rate. The Commission intends to take down the millage rate even further when we meet in September. Each year in July, the City Commission must set a maximum tax rate ceiling that we cannot increase but can reduce. Last year, the City Commission reduced the property tax millage rate further at the September meeting – a pattern we intend to repeat this year. The Miami Beach Commission will meet for a special budget and finance meeting on July 25th to consider how to provide additional reductions for our taxpayers.
Last, the Miami Beach Commission voted to put out several issues to the voters during the November election. First, voters will decide whether to move the City Clerk’s Office out from under the City Manager and transfer responsibility to the Mayor and Commission. This was done to ensure accountability of the City Clerk in providing public records in a fair and even manner. Second, the voters will determine whether the Historic Preservation Board and its powers and duties should be codified in the City Charter or remain as it has been under the purview of the Mayor and Commission. Finally, the voters will decide whether to make changes with regard to how candidates for City office qualify by petition. I voted in favor of putting these decisions before the voters as I believe public input is helpful in determining the best course of action for our City.
In closing, I wish you and yours a happy and healthy summer and that you enjoy the beautiful Miami Beach weather. As always, please don’t hesitate to reach out to Diana or me with any questions or concerns. It is also Diana’s birthday on July 30th so please join me in wishing her a very happy birthday!
Until next month I remain very truly yours,
Michael
Your Miami Beach Commissioner
