Recap of the BHA Community Meeting on the Miami DDA & Sunshine Meeting
Last night’s Brickell Homeowners Association (BHA) community meeting was memorable and insightful. The meeting, held at the elegant East Hotel, focused primarily on the Miami Downtown Development Authority (DDA) budget and brought together residents, city officials, and business leaders to discuss key updates and developments impacting the community.
One of the most significant developments was the Miami DDA’s decision to make a substantial budget adjustment. The DDA chose to reduce its budget by $1.2 million, a move that was warmly welcomed by residents. This adjustment, aimed at preventing tax increases for the upcoming fiscal year, demonstrates a strong commitment to fiscal responsibility while maintaining support for vital city services and projects.
The meeting also provided an opportunity for the DDA to introduce its board members, two of whom are Brickell residents. Their presence underscored the importance of local voices in decision-making processes that directly affect the neighborhood. The board members shared valuable insights into the DDA’s ongoing programs and initiatives.
During the meeting, several key services and programs directly benefiting Brickell were discussed, showcasing the ongoing efforts to enhance the neighborhood’s safety, infrastructure, and community engagement. These include:
• Off-Duty Officers: Ensuring a consistent presence of law enforcement to enhance safety and security throughout the neighborhood.
• Security Cameras: Expanding surveillance coverage to improve security in public areas and deter crime.
• Sanitation Improvements: Ongoing efforts to maintain cleanliness and a well-kept environment in the neighborhood.
• Safety Walks: Providing “safe walk” services. To request a safety walk, call: 305-415-3869
• Baywalk Connections & Activations
• Protected Bike Lanes: Projects aimed at increasing the safety of cyclists by creating more designated bike lanes.
• Permit Clinic: Helping residents and businesses navigate the permit process more easily and efficiently.
• Community Activation Grants: Funding opportunities for residents and organizations to host events and programs that foster community engagement.
• Underline Partnership: Collaboration with the Underline to create a connected, vibrant public space underneath the Metrorail.
• Incentive Program for Small Businesses: Initiatives designed to support the growth and success of small businesses in Brickell.
During the public comment period, residents voiced several pressing concerns, including:
• Loud boom cars
• Boats and loud music on the river
• Increased police presence
• Short-term rentals enforcement
• Parks and public spaces
Throughout the discussion, the Miami Commissioners were fully engaged, actively listening to residents and ensuring they felt heard. Their involvement underscored their commitment to addressing community concerns and working towards meaningful solutions.
During the meeting, Commissioner Carollo announced his support for the community by allocating funds for a dedicated police boat, a commitment echoed by Commissioner Pardo. Furthermore, Commissioner Carollo expressed his intention to collaborate with residents to address concerns related to short-term rentals and other quality of life issues.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to the Miami Commissioners Gabela, Pardo, Reyes & Carollo, the Assistant City Attorney, the Miami Downtown Development Authority, the BHA Board, and all the residents who are actively participating in this meaningful discussion. Your involvement is critical in shaping the future of our community.
We would like to extend our sincere thanks to the East Hotel for their generous support in providing the perfect venue for this event. Their contribution was instrumental in making the meeting a success.
We want to acknowledge our sponsors, Muller & Associatesciates.com and Hotwire Communications, for their continued support of the BHA and the community and their ongoing commitment to our community.
As we move forward, the information and insights shared during the meeting will help guide our actions and ensure Brickell remains a vibrant and thriving neighborhood for all its residents.
