C4O - Police Athletic League Grant

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REFERRAL TO THE FINANCE AND ECONOMIC RESILIENCY COMMITTEE - DISCUSS ESTABLISHMENT OF A RECURRING GRANT TO THE MIAMI BEACH POLICE ATHLETIC LEAGUE IN HONOR OF THE LATE SERGEANT DAVID A. CAJUSO. Β 

December 17, 2025
Sponsors
Commissioner Tanya Bhatt
Commissioner Tanya Bhatt

Detailed Information

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Committee Referrals - C4 O

C4 O REFERRAL TO THE FINANCE AND ECONOMIC RESILIENCY COMMITTEE - DISCUSS ESTABLISHMENT OF A RECURRING GRANT TO THE MIAMI BEACH POLICE ATHLETIC LEAGUE IN HONOR OF THE LATE SERGEANT DAVID A. CAJUSO. Applicable Area:

COMMISSION MEMORANDUM

TO:
Honorable Mayor and Members of the City Commission
FROM:
Commissioner Tanya K. Bhatt
DATE:
December 17, 2025
TITLE:
REFERRAL TO THE FINANCE AND ECONOMIC RESILIENCY COMMITTEE - DISCUSS ESTABLISHMENT OF A RECURRING GRANT TO THE MIAMI BEACH POLICE ATHLETIC LEAGUE IN HONOR OF THE LATE SERGEANT DAVID A. CAJUSO.

RECOMMENDATION

Please place on the December 17, 2025 agenda a referral to the Finance and Economic Resiliency Committee (the β€œCommittee”) to discuss the establishment of a recurring $10,000 grant to the Miami Beach Police Athletic League (the β€œPAL”), in honor of the late Sergeant David A. Cajuso.

BACKGROUND/HISTORY

The Miami Beach PAL has long served as a vital bridge between law enforcement and youth in our community, offering mentorship, educational support, and life-changing opportunities. Many of the children in PAL programs have never flown on an airplane, left the state of Florida, or been exposed to the world of higher education. One of PAL’s most transformative initiatives is its Ivy League Tour, which targets young leaders who demonstrate the academic potential and drive to pursue admission to elite universities. This program aims to inspire, broaden horizons, and provide real opportunities that can shape the future of our youth.

Through campus visits, interactions with students and faculty, and exposure to academic and career pathways, participants begin to see themselves as college-bound scholars capable of achieving excellence.

ANALYSIS

The proposed recurring grant would support the Ivy League Tour and other educational initiatives, reinforcing the City’s commitment to youth development and honoring the legacy of Sergeant Cajuso, a dedicated public servant and advocate for youth engagement.

Miami Beach PAL currently supports several educational pathway scholarships, including: β€’ Florida International University First Generation Scholarship – $2,500, in collaboration with the Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce and the City of Miami Beach. β€’ Miami Dade College Trade School/Education Scholarship – A partnership with the Martineau family, the City, and the Chamber, supporting students entering vocational programs. β€’ The Art Martineau Family Scholarship – Five $500 awards funded entirely by the Martineau family in memory of the late PAL Executive Director.

The proposed grant would complement these efforts, ensuring continued access to transformative experiences for PAL youth.

FISCAL IMPACT STATEMENT

$10,000 per year on a recurring basis.

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

In recognition of Sergeant Cajuso’s legacy and in support of the Miami Beach PAL’s mission, the City should explore establishing a recurring grant to expand educational opportunities for our youth. The Administration should present recommendations regarding funding, program alignment, and long-term sustainability.

Applicable Area

Citywide

Is this a β€œResidents Right to Know” item, pursuant to City Code Section 2-17?

Is this item related to a G.O. Bond Project?

Yes

No

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 - Establish Grant to PAL in Honor of Late Sergeant David A. Cajuso. (Bhatt)

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