C4V - Fund Sea Grape Management Plan

Committee Referrals - C4 V

COMMISSION MEMORANDUM

RECOMMENDATION

BACKGROUND/HISTORY

Please place on the April 23, 2025 City Commission agenda a referral to the Finance and Economic Resiliency Committee (“FERC”) to discuss the allocation of funds to implement a comprehensive and regularly scheduled sea grape management plan. The City recognizes that sea grapes are a vital part of the beach and dune ecosystem, in providing natural storm protection, preventing erosion, and supporting native coastal ecosystems.

While sea grapes provide valuable dune stabilization and habitat, their unmanaged growth can, in certain instances, impede pedestrian access, obstruct scenic views, and potentially impact dune structure if not properly maintained. Most importantly, they can provide safe harbor for criminals and other unwanted activity.

A proactive and consistent program of trimming and maintaining sea grapes on the City's beach dunes is necessary to balance their ecological benefits with public access, public safety and aesthetic considerations.

Accordingly, I would request that the City Administration be prepared at Committee to discuss allocating funds to implement a comprehensive and regularly scheduled sea grape management plan, along with any concerns and the costs associated with such measures.

ANALYSIS

FISCAL IMPACT STATEMENT

n/a

Does this Ordinance require a Business Impact Estimate? (FOR ORDINANCES ONLY)

If applicable, the Business Impact Estimate (BIE) was published on: See BIE at: https://www.miamibeachfl.gov/city-hall/city-clerk/meeting-notices/

FINANCIAL INFORMATION

CONCLUSION

Applicable Area

Citywide

Was this Agenda Item initially requested by a lobbyist which, as defined in Code Sec. 2-481, includes a principal engaged in lobbying? No

If so, specify the name of lobbyist(s) and principal(s):

Department

Office of Commissioner Tanya K. Bhatt

Sponsor(s)

Commissioner Tanya K. Bhatt

Co-sponsor(s)

Condensed Title

Ref: FERC - Sea Grapes Management Plan. (Bhatt)

Previous Action (For City Clerk Use Only)