R9AM - Select Final Site for Fire Station No. 1

Discussion Items - R9 AM

R9 AM DISCUSS/TAKE ACTION – FINAL SITE SELECTION FOR NEW FIRE STATION NO. 1, BUILD AT CURRENT LOCATION (1051 JEFFERSON AVENUE) OR PROCEED WITH SOUTH SHORE COMMUNITY CENTER SITE (833 6TH STREET). Applicable Area:

COMMISSION MEMORANDUM

RECOMMENDATION

Please place an item on the December 17, 2025 agenda to discuss and take action with regard to a final site selection for the new Fire Station No. 1 project.

The City of Miami Beach has undertaken a multi-year effort to replace the aging Fire Station No. 1, originally built in 1967 at 1051 Jefferson Avenue. The project, funded through the 2018 General Obligation Bond and supported by a $10.9M grant from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP), aims to deliver a modern, resilient facility that meets current operational and safety standards.

Following extensive analysis of various potential sites, the City Commission previously selected the South Shore Community Center (SSCC) site at 833 6th Street as the preferred location. The approval of the Historical Preservation Board was obtained, design work reached 90% completion, permits were in process, and construction was scheduled to begin following relocation of the daycare facility. However, in response to community concerns and Commission direction, the Administration explored alternative sites, including Flamingo Park and privately owned parcels.

Despite a favorable referendum result authorizing consideration of Flamingo Park, on July 23, 2025, the City Commission subsequently adopted Resolution No. 2025-33839 excluding both Flamingo Park and the SSCC from further consideration.

The Administration has confirmed that continued delays jeopardize the FDEP grant and risk further cost escalation. The time has come for the City Commission to provide definitive direction. I would like to discuss with my colleagues whether to build the new Fire Station No. 1 at its current location (1051 Jefferson Avenue) or to rescind Resolution 2025-33839 and proceed with construction at the South Shore Community Center Site (833 6th Street) as originally planned.

BACKGROUND/HISTORY

ANALYSIS

FISCAL IMPACT STATEMENT

TBD

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

South 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): N/A

Department

Office of Commissioner David Suarez

Sponsor(s)

Commissioner David Suarez

Co-sponsor(s)

Condensed Title

Discuss/Act, Final Site Selection for Fire Station No. 1. (Suarez)