C7P - Host Community Events on West Lot 4

Resolutions - C7 P

COMMISSION MEMORANDUM

RECOMMENDATION

The Administration recommends that while the City Commission evaluates hosting monthly community activations for residents on the West Lots, it also carefully considers several critical factors that will significantly impact the General Fund budget, beginning in FY 2026:

1. The City’s increasing unfunded capital improvement program. 2. Long-term General Fund financial projections indicating a potential shortfall in upcoming fiscal years. 3. The passage of Amendment 5 in November 2024, which increases the homestead exemption and further constrains the growth of taxable property values.

These considerations are essential to ensure that decisions regarding hosting monthly community activations for residents on the West Lots align with the City’s broader long-term financial stability and strategic priorities. If the Commission recommends funding to host monthly community activations for residents on the West Lot for $26,400 ($2,200 an activation per month), the Administration recommends it be considered as part of the FY 2026 budget process.

BACKGROUND/HISTORY

During the March 19, 2025 City Commission meeting, at the request of Commissioner Alex Fernandez, an item to consider holding monthly community activations for residents on West Lot number four (4) between 82nd – 83rd Streets, was referred to the Public Safety & Neighborhood Quality of Life Committee. (Exhibit A)

On February 23, 2025, the City held a successful North Beach Community Picnic on the West Lots featuring hot dogs, bounce houses, face painting, and other family-friendly activities to engage residents in a discussion about the future of the site. Given the positive community response, regular resident events could provide an opportunity to continue activating the space while fostering community engagement.

During the May 14, 2025 PSNQLC meeting, the Committee moved the item to the full City Commission with a favorable recommendation for the Parks and Recreation Department to host monthly community activations for residents on West Lot number four (4) between 82nd -83rd streets as outlined in the memo. (Exhibit B)

ANALYSIS

The Parks and Recreation Department recommends that these monthly activations include elements such as music, large format games, the Imagination Playground, snow cones, popcorn, cotton candy, and a food truck for concession sales. The Department will also explore partnerships with the City’s Police Department, Police Athletic League, and Fire Department to have thematic elements to the activations such as “Police Day” or “Fire Department Day”.

FISCAL IMPACT STATEMENT

The Parks and Recreation Department estimates that the monthly activations will cost approximately $2,200 per month / $26,400 annually. These funds should be considered during the FY 26 budget process.

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

Each activation is estimated at $2,200 per month / $26,400 annually.

CONCLUSION

The Administration is actively programming family-friendly events and activities throughout its park system in North Beach and will continue to evaluate the programming of unique spaces such as the West Lots in future contemplation.

Applicable Area

North Beach

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

Parks and Recreation

Sponsor(s)

Commissioner Alex Fernandez

Co-sponsor(s)

Condensed Title

Accept Rec/Host Monthly Community Activations, Residents on West Lot No. 4. (Fernandez) PKS

Previous Action (For City Clerk Use Only)