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Category: 2025 Press Releases
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March 21, 2025
— Residents will receive two new perks under the deal —
Miami Beach, FL – The City of Miami Beach has signed a new five-year contract with Citi Bike as the official provider of the popular kiosk-based bicycle rentals throughout the city.
"Miami Beach is committed to becoming the fitness capital of the world, and expanding access to biking is a key part of that vision,” said Miami Beach Mayor Steven Meiner. “This new agreement with Citi Bike not only enhances mobility but also encourages a healthier, more active lifestyle. We are making it even easier for people to choose biking as a daily transportation alternative.”
“This new contract delivers real benefits to our residents by making Citi Bike more accessible and affordable,” said Commissioner Alex J. Fernandez, who helped negotiate the resident benefits. “By offering three free 30-minute rides per month to non-subscribers and an extra free month to annual subscribers, we are encouraging more people to embrace bicycles as a convenient, sustainable, and healthy transportation alternative.”
The city has partnered with Citi Bike since 2009. The new five-year contract took effect on Jan. 1 and runs through Dec. 31, 2029. The company now has about 1,100 bicycles available for rent in Miami Beach, including 100 electric-assisted bicycles. The new contract allows up to an additional 100 electric-assisted bicycles to be made available for rentals though such devices are prohibited in certain parts of the city, including the Beachwalk and pedestrian-only areas of Lincoln Road.
To take advantage of the perks, Miami Beach residents must bring proof of residency to the Citi Bike location at 723 Washington Ave. during regular business hours (10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily). Call Citi Bike at 305.532.9494 or visit www.miamibeachfl.gov/citibike.
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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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March 19, 2025
— A joint ceremony will be held on March 20 in Collins Park —
Miami Beach, FL – The City of Miami Beach and Consulate General of Mexico in Miami will commemorate Mexican revolutionary hero and former president Benito Juárez during a special ceremony on Thursday, March 20 at 4 p.m. in collaboration with the city’s Hispanic Affairs Committee.
The celebration will take place in Collins Park at 21 Street and Collins Avenue by the permanent, 2-foot bronze bust of Juarez, which was gifted to the city by Mexico’s government last year.
“Benito Juárez championed democracy and justice,” said Miami Beach Mayor Steven Meiner. “As leaders, we honor his legacy by ensuring fairness, equal opportunity, and the rule of law in our communities.”
Juárez led Mexico through a period of significant political and social transformation in the 19th century, defeating foreign forces like the Austrian Maximilian I, who sought to control the country. His leadership led to vital reforms, including the establishment of secular education and the protection of religious freedoms.
Consul General of Mexico in Miami Rutilio Escandón Cadenas shared “It is an honor that Mexico is present with the figure of Benito Juárez, a tireless defender of equal rights for all people without distinction of origin, race, or color, with recognition and respect for diversity, plurality, and freedom of expression. Values that define Mexican humanism with unquestionable ethical principles that seek universal prosperity.”
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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 305.604.2489 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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Month, 00, 2024
— The Distinguished Budget Presentation Award represents the highest honor in government budgeting —
Miami Beach, FL – For the 23rd year in a row, the Government Finance Officers Association has awarded the City of Miami Beach a Distinguished Budget Presentation Award for its Fiscal Year 2025 Adopted Budget. The award is the highest form of recognition in government budgeting.
“This award is a reflection of the professionalism and excellence demonstrated by the city’s Office of Management and Budget,” said Miami Beach City Manager Eric T. Carpenter. “We are proud of all of the effort and late hours that went into the 2025 budget process.”
The Office of Management and Budget also received a special recognition for its presentation of strategic goals and strategies. Such an honor indicates that all three association reviewers gave the city the highest possible score in that category.
To qualify for the budget award, the city satisfied nationally recognized guidelines with respect to effective budget presentation. The guidelines are designed to assess how well the budget serves as a policy document, financial plan, operational guide and communication device.
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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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March 15, 2025
— The cards turn blue if they detect the presence of common date-rape drugs —
Miami Beach, FL – In an effort to prevent visitors and residents from falling victim to sexual assault, the City of Miami Beach will be offering free date-rape prevention test cards over busy spring break and other high-impact periods.
“Date rape is a serious problem everywhere and I’m proud to have championed this effort to reduce the number of potential victims,” shared Miami Beach Commissioner Laura Dominguez. “An estimated 11 million women in the nation are believed to be survivors of rape while under the influence of alcohol and drugs.”
The Date Rape Drug Detector cards can identify the presence of date-rape drugs like Gamma Hydroxybutyrate (GHB) and Ketamine. The city purchased 5,000 MBPD-branded cards that will be distributed by Miami Beach Goodwill Ambassadors and are also available in the lobby of the Miami Beach Police Department (1100 Washington Ave.).
The cards cannot be used to detect any other drugs or potentially harmful substances. They are also subject to false positives in the case of blue beverages, milk products, cream, oily liquors, some fruit juices and even some waters.
The cards advise users not to consume any beverage that produces a positive result when a droplet of the beverage is placed on two specified areas of the cards.
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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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March 11, 2025
— Point of Care Ultrasound (POCUS) will provide on-scene ultrasound imaging —
Miami Beach, FL – The Miami Beach Fire Department has taken another step in advancing pre-hospital emergency care with the introduction of a Point of Care Ultrasound (POCUS) device. With this mobile ultrasound technology, it will allow the department to further assist patients before they reach the hospital.
The POCUS device enables firefighters to perform real-time ultrasound examinations during life-threatening emergency calls, particularly in the case of cardiac arrests and serious trauma injuries, providing critical imaging of a patient on the spot. The device will be kept in the Emergency Medical Services shift captain’s vehicle. This will allow the device to be shared by multiple units and shifts. With this initiative, Miami Beach becomes the first fire department in Miami-Dade County to successfully implement mobile ultrasound technology in the field.
To ensure the effective use of POCUS, Miami Beach Fire personnel received hands-on training from Dr. Benjamin Abo, a renowned EMS and emergency physician, toxicologist and medical director in Florida.
"Advancing our pre-hospital care is a priority for our department," said Fire Chief Digna Abello. "With the addition of POCUS, we can provide life-saving imaging for patients, allowing the opportunity to make critical interventions in real time."
The ability to assess patients at the scene allows firefighters to determine whether a patient is responding to treatment and how serious their condition may be. This can guide medical decisions, increasing the effectiveness of aid before arriving at a hospital.
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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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March 4, 2025
— The city will be recognized at Bike305 Bike to Work Day —
Miami Beach, FL – With more than 8 miles of ocean promenade that make up the bicycle-friendly Beachwalk and miles of green bicycle lanes throughout the island, the City of Miami Beach has been recognized by Miami-Dade County as Bike305 Municipality of the Year for 2024. The city will be honored on Friday, March 7 at the 12th annual Bike305 Bike to Work Day.
“With our Beachwalk and dedicated bike lanes, it’s easier than ever to travel across our city without a car—while taking in some of the most beautiful views in the world,” said Miami Beach Mayor Steven Meiner. “We appreciate Miami-Dade County recognizing our efforts by naming us Bike305 Municipality of the Year.”
An initiative of Miami-Dade Parks, Bike305 is intended to promote bicycling as a fun, healthy and sustainable alternative to driving. The monthlong schedule of events include community bike rides, free helmet giveaways and instructional programs. Bike 305 aligns with Florida Bike Month in March.
An opening ceremony for the 12th Annual Bike305 Bike to Work Day will be held at Miami Beach City Hall (1700 Convention Center Drive) on Friday, March 7 at 7 a.m. Bicyclists will ride to the Stephen P. Clark Government Center (111 NW 1st Street) in Miami where the closing ceremony and award presentation will take place. AvMed is the premier sponsor of Friday’s event. Dr. Barry Burak and Affiliated Healthcare Centers will sponsor a bagel breakfast at the conclusion of the ride.
Bicyclists of all skill levels are invited to participate in the relaxed-paced ride. The route is about 7.4 miles long.
Complimentary shuttles and bike transport will be available from Government Center back to Miami Beach.
For more information, call or email Sue Kawalerski, Bike305 Manager at 305.978.2233 or kawaler@miamidade.gov.
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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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March 3, 2025
— New Lummus Park exhibit honors a celebrity chef, local news anchor and the first female Miami Beach fire chief among others —
Miami Beach, FL – Celebrity chef and restauranteur Michelle Bernstein, WSVN-TV news anchor Belkys Nerey and Miami Beach Fire Chief Digna Abello are among 10 exemplary women who will be honored at a new outdoor exhibit in Lummus Park during Women’s History Month in March.
“Women’s leadership strengthens Miami Beach every day with talent, dedication, and expertise that are truly remarkable,” said Miami Beach Mayor Steven Meiner. “I have the utmost respect for the exemplary women whose skills shape and guide our community forward.”
The “2025 Exemplary Women” exhibit also celebrates philanthropist Toby Lerner Ansin, dermatologist Leslie Baumann, author Judy Blume, community activist Deborah Plutzik Briggs, environmentalist Sophie Ringel, Olympic gold medalist Twanisha "TeeTee" Terry and DJ Tracy Young.
The official ribbon-cutting for the exhibit will take place on Tuesday, March 4 at 12:30 p.m. in Lummus Park on Ocean Drive between 8 and 9 streets. Most of the honorees are expected to attend the event.
“It’s an honor to celebrate the legacy of these remarkable women who have not only shaped the future of Miami Beach, but set a powerful example of resilience, innovation and leadership,” added Lynette Long, who chairs the Miami Beach Commission for Women, which is sponsoring the exhibit along with the Miami Design Preservation League. “Their stories are a testament to what can be achieved when passion meets purpose.”
The exhibit can be viewed free of charge throughout the month of March in Lummus Park.
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Feb. 28, 2025
— To honor the life of an LGBTQ and human rights activist —
Miami Beach, FL – The City of Miami Beach is set to unveil a commemorative plaque to honor the remarkable life and legacy of the late LGBTQ and human rights activist Joe Tom Easley. The ceremony will take place on Monday, March 3 at 4 p.m. in Pride Park at 19 St and Meridian Ave.
“Joe Tom Easley was a tireless advocate for fairness and justice,” shared Miami Beach Mayor Steven Meiner. “His work not only changed the lives of countless individuals but also strengthened the very foundation of our community.”
Easley, who passed away in February of 2022, was also an attorney and passionate advocate for historic preservation. Throughout his life, he worked relentlessly to promote equality, justice and fairness, becoming a leading national figure in both the civil rights and LGBTQ movements. He helped shape significant social changes, most notably with respect to the repeal of the U.S. military’s “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy that prevented gay men and lesbians from openly serving.
“Joe Tom’s life exemplified the best of who we are as a city — welcoming, compassionate and committed to progress,” added Vice Mayor Tanya Katzoff Bhatt. “He fought not only for the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals but also for the preservation of our shared history. The plaque to be unveiled at Pride Park will serve as a permanent reminder of Easley’s unwavering dedication to justice, equality and historic preservation.”
A Texas native, Easley was raised in a small farming community. As a young man, he worked as a DJ and sports announcer. He became an advocate for the rights of LGBTQ service members after serving in the Navy.
After earning his law degree from the University of Texas, he became an influential leader in the Southern Regional Council, where he monitored government discrimination against African American communities. He later worked in Europe, led major investigations of pharmaceutical price-fixing, and even risked his safety to smuggle a friend’s precious family photos out of the former Communist-controlled Czech Republic.
In 2003, Easley and his partner, Peter Freiberg, were among the first American couples to legally marry in Canada after more than two decades together. Their union, later recognized in this country when the U.S. Supreme Court legalized same-sex marriage, symbolized the resilience of their love and commitment.
Easley’s work with Lambda Legal, the Human Rights Campaign Foundation and the Servicemembers' Legal Defense Network was instrumental in advancing LGBTQ legal rights, particularly in the U.S. military. His many accomplishments included efforts to bring an injured Iraqi child to the U.S. for medical treatment during the Iraq War.
Easley’s advocacy also extended into historic preservation. He served for many years on the board of directors of the Miami Design Preservation League, advocating for the protection of Miami Beach’s historic architecture.
“Joe Tom Easley’s impact reached far beyond Miami Beach, but here in our city, we are proud to honor his legacy and ensure that his contributions are never forgotten,” said Commissioner Laura Dominguez.
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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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Feb. 26, 2025
— MacDonald previously oversaw parking and transportation for the University of Florida—
Miami Beach, FL – With more than a decade of experience managing parking operations at one of Florida’s largest universities, the world’s largest airport parking and transportation system, and other municipal parking programs, William MacDonald has been appointed by the Miami Beach City Commission to lead the city’s Parking Department.
“I am delighted to welcome William into a very prominent role in our city, one which he is well prepared for, and I look forward to having him join the talented and dedicated team that already exists in the Parking Department,” said Miami Beach City Manager Eric T. Carpenter.
MacDonald, who will begin his new role in May, is currently serving as the director of transportation and parking services at the University of Florida. He previously served as director of parking and ground transportation services at Denver International Airport and oversaw all off-street parking assets for the Department of Transportation in Pasadena, California.
“I look forward to utilizing technology and being engaged with the community to create smarter parking solutions that improve the experience for all of Miami Beach,” MacDonald said.
MacDonald attended the University of Central Florida and holds multiple industry certifications through the International Parking and Mobility Institute as well as the National Parking Association.
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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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Feb. 25, 2025
— The Belle Isle Dog Park will be the first of its kind in the city —
Miami Beach, FL – The City of Miami Beach will open its first dog park that relies entirely on artificial turf instead of grass. The grand opening will take place on Friday, Feb. 28 at 9 a.m.
“Belle Isle’s new dog park is a game-changer for pet owners in Miami Beach,” shared Miami Beach City Commissioner Laura Dominguez. “Artificial turf provides a cleaner, safer, and more durable surface for dogs to play on while eliminating the need for harmful pesticides and fertilizers. This project is a testament to our commitment to enhancing public spaces for both residents and their four-legged companions.”
In addition to the artificial turf, the Belle Isle facility will incorporate a new irrigation system for daily cleaning. The park has also been upgraded with new fencing, benches as well as trash and recycling bins. Belle Isle Bark Park is located across the street from 11 Island Avenue.
Click here for more information on Miami Beach Bark Parks.
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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).
