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Category: 2024 Press Releases
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July 24, 2024
— The veteran public servant has held multiple roles in the city since 2013 —
Miami Beach, FL – Longtime public servant Eric T. Carpenter has been appointed city manager of Miami Beach. Carpenter, who has held multiple high-level positions in the city over the past decade, replaces Alina T. Hudak, who resigned in March after becoming the first woman to serve as city manager.
"Eric Carpenter is the best person for this job,” explained Miami Beach Mayor Steven Meiner. “I am confident that Eric’s depth of knowledge regarding the city and his relationships with residents and the community make him the ideal choice to help lead more than 2,300 employees and two dozen departments.”
Carpenter, a licensed professional engineer, joined the city in 2013 as public works director. He was promoted to the position of assistant city manager in 2015 and deputy city manager in 2021. During his tenure, he has overseen a wide range of departments and divisions within the city, including Building, Capital Improvement Projects, Code Compliance, Economic Development, Environment and Sustainability, Facilities and Fleet, G.O. Bond and Miami Beach Convention Center Hotel, Parks and Recreation, Parking, Public Works and Transportation.
“I’m honored and humbled to serve as city manager for one of the greatest destinations in the United States,” Carpenter said. “With more than a decade of experience in Miami Beach government, I have a deep understanding of city issues, infrastructure, service delivery and projects that I will be able to draw upon to elevate our resident services to the next level.”
Prior to joining the City of Miami Beach, Carpenter served as director of Public Works for the City of Doral from 2006 to 2013. He was recognized as the 2010 Government Engineer of the Year by the Miami-Dade Branch of the American Society of Civil Engineers.
Carpenter attained a Bachelor of Science in civil engineering with a minor in chemistry from the University of Maryland in 1997. He also holds an OSHA-40 (plus 8-hour OSHA Supervisory Training) Certification and a Florida Department of Transportation Intermediate Maintenance of Traffic (MOT) Certification as well as a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Construction Quality Management for Contractors Qualification.
He is an active member of the South Florida Branch of the American Public Works Association, where he served as executive board chairman from 2017 to 2019.
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To request this material in alternate format, sign language interpreter (five-day notice required), information on access for persons with disabilities, and/or any accommodation to review any document or participate in any city-sponsored proceedings, call 305.604.2ADA (2232) and select 1 for English or 2 for Spanish, then option 6; TTY users may call via 711 (Florida Relay Service).
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July 23, 2024
— A change-of-command ceremony is planned for July 31 at 4 p.m. in the Miami Beach Convention Center —
Miami Beach, FL – The City of Miami Beach invites the public and media to attend a swearing-in and change-of-command ceremony on Wednesday, July 31 at 4 p.m. at the Miami Beach Convention Center (Sunset Vista Ballroom) for the first woman ever appointed fire chief in the history of Miami-Dade County.
Chief Digna Abello, a 19-year veteran of the Miami Beach Fire Department, started her career with the agency as a firefighter and worked her way up through the ranks — becoming the 14th chief in the agency’s history. The Miami Beach Fire Department is one of only slightly more than 1% of the 37,983 participating fire agencies in the United States that have attained the prestigious ISO Class 1 rating from the Insurance Services Office.
“We are very proud to be in a city that rewards leadership and hard work, and promotes from within when we have a deserving candidate like Chief Abello,” said Miami Beach Interim City Manager Rickelle Williams. “We look forward to making history as the first municipality in Miami-Dade County to appoint and swear-in a woman as fire chief.”
The Miami Beach City Commission unanimously approved Abello’s appointment on June 26, 2024. Abello replaces Chief Virgil Fernandez who retired after more than 10 years with the department and four decades of service with fire agencies in South Florida.
As a firefighter, Abello distinguished herself, rising to the rank of lieutenant with a focus on recruitment and administration. She was subsequently named division chief of support services, division chief of training and division chief of rescue — all three major divisions of the department. Prior to being appointed chief, she served as deputy chief of administration beginning in 2020, where she was involved in all significant department matters with Fernandez.
She holds a bachelor's degree in emergency management from Barry University as well as numerous certifications, including fire inspector, fire officer, fire instructor, National Fire Academy leadership certification, incident command system certification and accreditation manager through the Commission on Fire Accreditation International.
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To request this material in alternate format, sign language interpreter (five-day notice required), information on access for persons with disabilities, and/or any accommodation to review any document or participate in any city-sponsored proceedings, call 305.604.2ADA (2232) and select 1 for English or 2 for Spanish, then option 6; TTY users may call via 711 (Florida Relay Service).
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— Recipients will be recognized at an awards ceremony in October —
Miami Beach, FL – The Miami Beach Hispanic Affairs Committee is seeking nominations for the 2024 Hispanic Heritage Month Awards by 5 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 2. The committee will honor recipients at an awards ceremony in September.
National Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated annually from September 15 to October 15. The Hispanic Heritage Month Awards are intended to honor members of the Hispanic community who live or work in the City of Miami Beach and who have made a positive contribution to the community in their respective professions.
The committee will select individuals or businesses from the following categories:
Individual — Educator, public safety personnel, social service provider, artist, youth (under 18 involved in community service), adult contributing to the success of youth and any Hispanic Miami Beach community member.
Business — Business, business owner, or employee of a qualified business (must have at least 51% Hispanic ownership).
Each nomination must include the nominee’s full name, address, phone number and a detailed explanation of the nominee’s contribution to the community. Nominations must be received by 5 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 2, 2024. The awards will be presented during the Miami Beach Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration in September.
Nomination forms are available by clicking here. Completed forms can be submitted via email to leonorhernandez@miamibeachfl.gov or via mail to Leonor Hernandez, City of Miami Beach, Hispanic Affairs Committee Liaison, 1700 Convention Center Drive, Miami Beach, FL, 33139.
The Hispanic Affairs Committee serves as an advisory capacity to the City Commission and the Administration with respect to matters pertaining to the Hispanic community of the City of Miami Beach. For more information, send an email to leonorhernandez@miamibeachfl.gov.
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July 22, 2024
— This year’s ceremony on July 25 will highlight Ecuador’s independence —
Miami Beach, FL – Join the City of Miami Beach for its sixth annual celebration of Simón Bolívar y Las Americas Day on Thursday, July 25, 2024 at 4 p.m. Bolivar was born on July 24, 1783 in Caracas, Venezuela and his accomplishments are celebrated throughout Latin America.
“Simon Bolivar left us one of the greatest legacies of humanity,” said Chairwoman Carmen Datorre of the Miami Beach Hispanic Affairs Committee. “Although being born from a privileged home, he always fought for equality, dignity and freedom — focusing on education as a means.”
“El Libertador” as he is known in Spanish (The Liberator) played a central role in the South American independence movement. His efforts set forth the creation of Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, Panama and Peru.
The Miami Beach ceremony will take place at Bolivar’s Miami Beach monument in Collins Park and will be followed by cafecito.
The monument, which is located at 21 Street and Collins Avenue, commemorates Bolívar’s courageous effort. The festivities will include an invocation and wreath-laying ceremony from the Office of the Mayor and Commission. Every year, the Miami Beach Hispanic Affairs Committee highlights a country Bolivar helped become independent. This year’s ceremony will honor the experience of Ecuador.
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WHAT: Simón Bolívar y Las Americas Day
WHEN: Thursday, July 25, 2024 at 4 p.m.
WHERE: Simón Bolívar monument at 21 Street and Collins Avenue
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July 17, 2024
— Professionals from around the country come together to exchange ideas and learn about new innovations in keeping our communities safe —
Miami Beach, FL – The 19th annual National Homeland Security Conference (NHSC) will be hosted jointly by the City of Miami Beach, the City of Miami and the National Homeland Security Association on July 22 – 25 at the Miami Beach Convention Center. Previously known as the Urban Areas Security Initiative (UASI) Conference, the event got its start in 2007 in Miami at the Intercontinental Hotel and was attended by fewer than 250 people. Nearly 20 years later, the conference has grown to an expected 1,800 participants.
The NHSC brings together professionals in homeland security, law enforcement, fire rescue, EMS and emergency management including officials in all levels of government agencies, nonprofit agencies, business owners, universities and decision makers. The focus of the conference is to learn about emerging trends in homeland security, public safety and emergency management as well as to experience new equipment and technology available to support their mission.
Although the conference is only open to registered attendees, media is invited to attend the Asset Display on Wednesday, July 24 at the Miami Beach Convention Center and a Demonstration of South Florida public safety regional assets in action on Wednesday, July 24 at PortMiami. Details can be found below.
Wednesday, July 24
Asset Display, 8 a.m. – 3 p.m.
The Asset Display will be on Convention Center Drive between 18 and 19 streets (west side of Miami Beach Convention Center). The display will showcase first responders’ apparatus and equipment from the Southeast Florida region.
Note: The bus lane east of the median on Convention Center Drive will be closed between 18 and 19 streets from 6:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.
South Florida Public Safety Regional Assets in Action Exercise/Demonstration,
6:15 p.m., expected to last 40 minutes
In Biscayne Bay between Cruise Terminal J at PortMiami and Bayfront Park
Join the City of Miami and Miami-Dade County public safety agencies along with U.S. Customs and Border Protection as they perform a demonstration showcasing an active threat response incident in Biscayne Bay between Bayfront Park and Cruise Port Terminal J at PortMiami. Special response teams will be taking part to demonstrate land, water and air capabilities.
Note: Simulated gun fire, explosions, and use of a helicopter are part of this demonstration.
Media Instructions: Media viewing area will be set up at PortMiami Cruise Terminal J.
For additional details, visit www.nationalhomelandsecurity.org.
For additional information on emergency preparedness information, visit:
City of Miami Beach Division of Emergency Management
City of Miami Division of Emergency Management
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To request this material in alternate format, sign language interpreter (five-day notice required), information on access for persons with disabilities, and/or any accommodation to review any document or participate in any city-sponsored proceedings, call 305.604.2ADA (2232) and select 1 for English or 2 for Spanish, then option 6; TTY users may call via 711 (Florida Relay Service).
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July 17, 2024
— The city’s Red Sand event will be held on Saturday, July 27 —
Miami Beach, FL — The City of Miami Beach through its Human Rights Committee will host a Red Sand event on Saturday, July 27 from 5-7 p.m. The event will be held at Pride Park to raise awareness on the plight of human trafficking victims and will bring together community resources to address the issue on a local level.
Miami Beach Vice Mayor Laura Dominguez and Commissioner Alex Fernandez are expected to deliver remarks at Pride Park (1809 Meridian Ave.) as well as the State Attorney's Office, Miami Beach Police and a survivor of human trafficking.
“Human trafficking is believed to be a $150 billion global scourge that involves not only sexual exploitation, but forced labor used in industries like hospitality and construction,” Vice Mayor Dominguez explained. “This event is a crucial step towards raising awareness and mobilizing our community to shed light on the often-hidden realities of trafficking.”
The event is part of the Red Sand Project, started by artist and activist Molly Gochman in 2014 as a participatory art project of Art Basel Miami Beach. Red Sand events are marked by a symbolic gesture of depositing biodegradable red sand along sidewalk cracks to represent trafficking victims who have fallen through the cracks of society.
“By fostering a network of support and education, we can effectively combat trafficking and ensure that survivors receive the assistance they deserve,” added Commissioner Fernandez. “This event is an opportunity for our community to demonstrate our commitment to protecting human rights and dignity.”
The following organizations are expected to attend: 2 Million Children, Aqua Foundation, Homeland Security Investigation Office in Miami, Kristi House, More Too Life, Pridelines, The Women’s Fund Miami-Dade, Rooted in Her, TransSocial, Tree of Life, United Abolitionists, Unity Coalition, Unity on the Bay and USF TiP Lab.
Refreshments will also be available.
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WHAT: Miami Beach Red Sand Event
WHEN: Saturday, July 27 from 5-7 p.m.
WHERE: Pride Park, 1809 Meridian Ave.
To request this material in alternate format, sign language interpreter (five-day notice required), information on access for persons with disabilities, and/or any accommodation to review any document or participate in any city-sponsored proceedings, call 305.604.2ADA (2232) and select 1 for English or 2 for Spanish, then option 6; TTY users may call via 711 (Florida Relay Service).
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July 11, 2024
—Discover the aspects of Miami Beach that resonate most with you —
Miami Beach, FL – Building on the success of its viral campaign "Miami Beach is Breaking up with Spring Break," the City of Miami Beach has unveiled its latest strategic marketing initiative today: “Find Your Match.” This marketing campaign aims to attract visitors, engage residents, increase brand awareness and boost hotel bookings by showcasing the diverse and dynamic experiences Miami Beach has to offer.
“The “Find Your Match” campaign spotlights Miami Beach’s rich and varied attractions, solidifying its status as an unparalleled destination,” said Miami Beach Interim City Manager Rickelle Williams. “Our commitment to exceptional experiences ensures Miami Beach remains a top choice for travelers worldwide.”
The campaign introduces a cast of characters, each searching for their perfect Miami Beach experience based on interests ranging from arts and outdoor activities to culture and culinary delights. Viewers experience the excitement of discovering the city's hidden gems, vibrant nightlife, gourmet dining, shopping destinations and cultural hotspots through these characters' perspectives. The creative approach mimics popular mobile apps, with the viewer being “swiped” through different Miami Beach experiences. Each swipe reveals a new adventure — whether it's exploring a shopping venue, enjoying a day at the beach or dining at a top-rated restaurant.
With its warm weather, seven miles of stunning beaches, over 40 parks and facilities, world-class restaurants, serene spas and more, Miami Beach has become a beloved destination for travelers seeking memorable experiences. “Find Your Match,” invites visitors and locals to discover the aspects of Miami Beach that resonate with them the most. Learn more at www.FindYourMatchMB.com.
To view a sampling of the “Find Your Match” creative assets, including video and sample ads, click here.
Follow the “Find Your Match” campaign at @MiamiBeachNews and @VisitMiami.
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To request this material in alternate format, sign language interpreter (five-day notice required), information on access for persons with disabilities, and/or any accommodation to review any document or participate in any city-sponsored proceedings, call 305.604.2ADA (2232) and select 1 for English or 2 for Spanish, then option 6; TTY users may call via 711 (Florida Relay Service).
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July 3, 2024
— Visitors have a history of leaving trash behind —
Miami Beach, FL – The City of Miami Beach will once again close its popular Flagler Monument Island to boaters over the long July 4 weekend in response to a history of littering by irresponsible visitors. The uninhabited island will close starting on Thursday, July 4 at 6 a.m. and will reopen at 6 a.m. on Monday, July 8.
“This is an uninhabited island that some boaters have historically used as a dumping ground,” said Miami Beach Police Chief Wayne A. Jones, who announced the closure following a similar closure over Memorial Day Weekend. “The city will set up an enforcement presence on the island throughout the holiday weekend as we have done in the recent past to ensure that boaters respect the temporary closure.”
Built by Miami Beach founding father Carl Fisher more than 100 years ago, the island features a 96-foot obelisk to honor Henry M. Flagler, a pioneer of modern Florida who founded the East Coast Florida Railway and built a hotel empire in the Sunshine State.
During the pandemic when the island was closed to the public for an extended period, it became home to the first documented nest of North American ospreys (Pandion haliaetus) in the Biscayne Bay Aquatic Preserve, according to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection at the time. The island is only accessible by boat.
The obelisk has been a familiar landmark for decades with its allegorical sculptures at the base. Unfortunately, boating enthusiasts have frequently left behind substantial piles of trash, including numerous empty beer cans and bottles.
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June 28, 2024
— From North Beach to South Beach, It’s Fireworks and Fun —
Miami Beach, FL – Embrace the spirit of July 4th in Miami Beach with a day filled with music, family activities, and dazzling fireworks displays at two iconic locations. Starting earlier in the day, join us at Altos Del Mar Park and the Miami Beach Bandshell for the Fire on the Fourth festival, which culminates in a spectacular drone and fireworks show over the beach. Meanwhile, the Ocean Drive Association presents their annual Independence Day Fireworks & Patriotic Concert, featuring live music and a stunning firework display on Ocean Drive at 12 Street.
“The Fourth of July is a holiday that unites Americans with a common celebration of our shared heritage and freedoms we hold dear,” said Miami Beach Interim City Manager Rickelle Williams. “The holiday is even more special in Miami Beach because we have so many diverse cultures and traditions represented.”
Fire on the Fourth kicks off at 3 p.m. on Thursday, July 4, 2024 at a new location in Altos Del Mar Park at 76 Street and Collins Avenue with activities, food trucks and a family zone featuring a rock climbing wall, inflatable soccer dart game, obstacle course, giant yard games and an Imagination Playground that will operate from 3-7:30 p.m. Music performances take the stage from 5-9 p.m. with entertainment by DJ Luc, MC Maria Salas and The Miami Beats Band. “The Star-Spangled Banner” will be sung by seventh grader Isabella Velasquez. Fire on the Fourth concludes with a drone show and fireworks display on the beachfront starting at 9 p.m.
The Miami Beach Bandshell at 7275 Collins Ave. will be transformed into a free outdoor roller disco from 5-9 p.m. with music by Lolo & DJ Hottpants of Sweat Records. Bring your own skates or blades. Miami Beach residents can enjoy free skate rentals with a photo I.D. Music lovers can take in the tunes from the Club Box Deck even if they prefer to go without skates.
In addition to the North Beach festivities, the Ocean Drive Association in partnership with the City of Miami Beach and the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau will host its annual Independence Day Fireworks & Patriotic Concert on Ocean Drive and 12 Street commencing with an orchestra performance by the Miami Beach Classical Music Festival at 8:30 p.m. The fireworks display will start at 9 p.m. Attendees are encouraged to make reservations at one of the many alfresco restaurants or bring their beach chairs, blankets and picnic fare.
Transportation
Attendees can ride the free citywide trolley service from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. on the holiday. Service frequency for the trolleys is approximately every 20 minutes. For more details, visit www.miamibeachtrolley.com.
Eventgoers can also opt to travel by bicycle along the beautiful Beachwalk. Click here to learn more about the city's bicycle network and bicycle parking options. Don't have a bike? Learn more about renting a Citi Bike.
Parking for Fire on the Fourth
The municipal parking lot at 7501 Collins Ave. will be unavailable during the event, but surface parking is available across the street from the Miami Beach Bandshell at 299 72 St. (P92) between Collins and Harding avenues. Other municipal lots are located at 225 79 Street (P107) and 8040 Collins Ave. (P108). In addition, metered street parking is available along Collins Avenue.
What Not to Bring
Personal fireworks, Styrofoam, drones, glass containers and alcoholic beverages are prohibited. The city encourages all attendees to do their part by recycling to #KeepMBClean.
For the complete schedule of July 4th festivities, visit www.miamibeachfl.gov/july4celebration.
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To request this material in alternate format, sign language interpreter (five-day notice required), information on access for persons with disabilities, and/or any accommodation to review any document or participate in any city-sponsored proceedings, call 305.604.2ADA (2232) and select 1 for English or 2 for Spanish, then option 6; TTY users may call via 711 (Florida Relay Service).
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June 26, 2024
– A yearlong pilot program will begin on Sunday, June 30 –
Miami Beach, FL – Starting Sunday, June 30, the City of Miami Beach and Poseidon Ferry will launch a new one-year water taxi pilot program to transport passengers between Miami Beach and Miami — aiming to ease traffic congestion between the two cities. The service will begin at the north side of Maurice Gibb Memorial Park (18 Street and Purdy Avenue, Miami Beach) and end at the Venetian Marina & Yacht Club (1635 N Bayshore Drive, Miami).
During the pilot program, the City of Miami Beach will subsidize approximately half of Poseidon Ferry's operations with a $600,000 financial contribution.
“The purpose of this cross-bay water taxi service is to provide commuters with a public transportation option to help decongest our roadways and help the city meet its long-term strategic goal of becoming less car-centric,” said Transportation and Mobility Director and Interim Parking Director José R. González. “Most successful waterborne public transportation services or commuter ferry services across the globe operate with some financial assistance from the government by way of subsidies.”
The city is also seeking federal and state grants for waterborne transportation to expand the program in the future.
“Our goal is to make your daily commute smoother by alleviating traffic congestion,” said Miami Beach Mayor Steven Meiner. “Long-term I envision a cost-effective water taxi service that will efficiently transport people not only to neighboring Miami but north and south throughout Miami Beach.”
Hours of Operation and Frequency of Service
The water taxi will operate daily from 7:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. except during the hours of 2-3 p.m. to accommodate a shift change. The vessel will depart from Maurice Gibb Memorial Park every hour on the half hour commencing at 7:30 a.m. and will depart the Venetian Marina & Yacht Club every hour on the hour starting at 8 a.m. The trip takes approximately 18 minutes each way.
To ensure accessibility for all passengers, both locations are compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Fares
One-way fare prices are $5 for Miami Beach residents, $12 for non-residents, and $6 for seniors 65 years of age or older and disabled military personnel. Miami-Dade County Golden Passport holders and children 12 years old and younger will sail for free. There is a weekly commuter pass option for $30 (10 trips at $3 per trip) and a monthly commuter pass option for $120 (40 trips at $3 per trip).
Fares and passes can be purchased onboard the water taxi, at www.poseidonferry.com, on the Poseidon Ferry Mobile App or over the phone with a ticket agent by calling 844.623.3779 between the hours of 7 a.m. and 7:30 p.m. daily.
Miami Beach residents must show a valid I.D. to receive the resident rate. Resident fares will be waived during the first 30 days of operation through July 30.
Miami Beach residents can apply for a Golden Passport in person at the Miami Beach Customer Service Center at 1755 Meridian Ave, First Floor. Make an appointment online or call 305.673.7420.
Parking
Parking rates at the Sunset Harbour municipal parking garage will be reduced by 50 percent for all water taxi passengers. Residents will pay 50 cents per hour while non-residents will pay $1 per hour. Must show proof of water taxi fare upon exit to take advantage of the rate reduction.
For additional details, visit www.poseidonferry.com.
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