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2018-30242 ResolutionRESOLUTION NO. 2018-30242 A RESOLUTION OF THE MAYOR AND CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF MIAMI BEACH, FLORIDA, ACCEPTING, IN PART, THE RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE NEIGHBORHOOD /COMMUNITY AFFAIRS COMMITTEE REGARDING KITEBOARDING IN MIAMI BEACH, DIRECTING THE CITY ADMINISTRATION TO DEVELOP KITEBOARDING REGULATIONS, WITH AN ENFORCEMENT PLAN, INCLUDING A KITEBOARDER CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENT BASED UPON THE INTERNATIONAL KITEBOARDING ORGANIZATION (IKO) LEVEL 3, OR EQUIVALENT, AND DISTANCE REQUIREMENTS OF FIFTY (50) FEET FROM SWIMMERS AND AT LEAST TWO HUNDRED (200) FEET FROM THE SHORELINE (EXCEPT DURING LAUNCHING AND LANDING); AND APPROVING KITEBOARDING, BY IKO LEVEL 3 KITEBOARDERS ONLY, AT BEACH LOCATIONS FROM 24TH STREET THROUGH 25TH STREET AND NORTH OF 29TH STREET; RESTRICTING KITEBOARDING LESSONS TO ONLY THE 76TH STREET LOCATION; PROHIBITING KITEBOARDING, IN ADDITION TO THE RESTRICTED SWIM AREAS, FROM 25TH STREET TO 29TH STREET AND SOUTH OF 24TH STREET; AND, FURTHER, DIRECTING THE CITY ADMINISTRATION TO PROVIDE AN UPDATE TO THE CITY COMMISSION SIX (6) MONTHS AFTER THE REGULATIONS HAVE BEEN IN EFFECT. WHEREAS, since 2014, the City of Miami Beach has offered, through its Public Beachfront Concession Agreement with Boucher Brothers Miami Beach LLC and its subcontractor, TKS Concessions, LLC, kiteboarding lessons at 76th Street; and WHEREAS, with the rise in popularity of kiteboarding, the City's beaches have experienced an increase in recreational users as well as unauthorized business activity associated with the sport, most notably, the area between 25th and 27th Streets; and WHEREAS, out of concern for the safety and well -being of beachgoers, the City Code prohibits the use of watercraft in restricted swim areas around lifeguard stands, thus kiteboarders have spread into certain unguarded areas behind private properties and pose a safety hazard to condominium residents and other beachgoers; and WHEREAS, on December 13, 2017, following several meetings in which it discussed the need to balance safety concerns with allowing kiteboarding enthusiasts to practice their sport, the City Commission referred the item to the Neighborhood /Community Affairs Committee (NCAC); and WHEREAS, the City conducted a public workshop on kiteboarding on December 1, 2017 and on February 9, 2018, each of which was attended by various stakeholders, including kiteboarders, residents, law enforcement, and City staff, at which serious discussion occurred about rules and regulations for responsible kiteboarding; and WHEREAS, the City also launched an online feedback forum for individuals who could not attend the public workshops; and WHEREAS, on February 21, 2018, the NCAC recommended that the City Administration (1) develop kiteboarding regulations, including a certification requirement for IKO Level 3, or equivalent, for kiteboarders, and an enforcement plan; (2) designate kiteboarding locations at 35th Street, 76th Street, and 84th Street, with lessons restricted to the 76th Street location; and (3) research additional locations at 25th Street, 55th Street, and 65th Street; and WHEREAS, the additional three locations to be researched by City Staff, which were referred to, erroneously, during the February 21, 2018 NCAC meeting, in actuality, related to 25th Street, 53rd Street (instead of 55th Street), and 64th Street (instead of 65th Street); and WHEREAS, the City Administration has completed its preliminary research of the proposed additional kiteboarding locations and does not recommend that the 53rd Street location be considered, because it is the proposed location of the Sabrina Cohen adaptive recreation center; however, the 64th Street and 25th Street locations could be considered as additional kiteboarding locations, with the 25th Street location being implemented on a six month trial basis, due to the high volume of beachgoers at the 25th Street location; and WHEREAS, on March 7, 2017, after hearing from members of the public, the Mayor and City Commission directed the Administration to develop new kiteboarding regulations, with an enforcement plan, including requiring kiteboarders, that are not receiving lessons, to have a certification requirement, based upon the IKO Level 3, or equivalent; requiring kiteboarders to maintain a distance of 50 feet from swimmers, and to engage in kiteboarding at least 200 feet from shore, except during launching and landing; and restricting this activity to certain locations of the beach; and WHEREAS, the City Commission approved kiteboarding, by IKO Level 3 kiteboarders only, at beach locations from 24th Street through 25th Street and north of 29th Street; restricted kiteboarding lessons to only the 76th Street location; prohibited kiteboarding, in addition to the restricted swim areas, from 25th Street to 29th Street and south of 24th Street; and, further, directed the City Administration to provide an update to the City Commission ix (6) months after the regulations have been in effect. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT DULY RESOLVED BY THE MAYOR AND CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF MIAMI BEACH, FLORIDA, that the Mayor and City Commission hereby accept, in part, the recommendations of the Neighborhood /Community Affairs Committee regarding kiteboarding in Miami Beach, and direct the City Administration to develop kiteboarding regulations, with an enforcement plan, including a kiteboarder certification requirement based upon the International Kiteboarding Organization (IKO) Level 3, or equivalent, and distance requirements of fifty (50) feet from swimmers and at least two hundred (200) feet from the shoreline (except during launching and landing); and approve kiteboarding, by IKO Level 3 kiteboarders only, at beach locations from 24th Street through 25th Street and north of 29th Street; restrict kiteboarding lessons to only the 76th Street location; prohibit kiteboarding, in addition to the restricted swim areas, from 25th Street to 29th Street and south of 24th Street; and, further, direct the City Administration to provide an update to the City Commission six (6) months after the regulations have been in effect. PASSED and ADOPTED THIS 7th day of March 2018. ATTEST: % %Mk% 114 Z 4.* Per R fa I E. Granado, Ci y INOORP ORATE[ 6 4i) \ • .... 4- 2 APPROVED AS TO NGUAGE ECUTION City Attorney MIAMI BEACH Resolutions - R7 H COMMISSION MEMORANDUM TO: Honorable Mayor and Members of the City Commission FROM: Jimmy L. Morales, City Manager DATE: March 7, 2018 SUBJECT: A RESOLUTION OF THE MAYOR AND CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF MIAMI BEACH, FLORIDA, ACCEPTING THE RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE NEIGHBORHOOD /COMMUNITY AFFAIRS COMMITTEE REGARDING KITEBOARDING IN MIAMI BEACH INCLUDING: 1) THE DEVELOPMENT OF REGULATIONS INCLUDING A CERTIFICATION PROCESS FOR INTERNATIONAL KITEBOARDING ORGANIZATION (IKO) LEVEL 3, OR EQUIVALENT, KITEBOARDERS AND AN ENFORCEMENT PLAN; 2) THE DESIGNATION OF KITEBOARDING LOCATIONS AT 35TH STREET, 76TH STREET AND 84TH STREET, WITH LESSONS RESTRICTED TO THE 76th STREET LOCATION; AND 3) DIRECTING THE ADMINISTRATION TO RESEARCH ADDITIONAL LOCATIONS AT 25TH STREET, 55TH STREET, AND 65TH STREET. RECOMMENDATION Adopt the Resolution. BACKGROUND Since 2014, the City of Miami Beach has offered, through its Public Beachfront Concession Agreement with Boucher Brothers Miami Beach LLC ( "Concessionaire ") and their subcontractor, TKS Concessions, LLC, kiteboarding lessons at 76th Street in conjunction with the Ocean Terrace beachfront concession operation. In recent years, due to the increase in popularity, recreational users, as well as groups engaging in illegal commerce by selling and providing lessons, have been utilizing various locations for kiteboarding on Miami Beach, most notably, the area between 25th and 27th Streets. Due to the overwhelming number of kiteboarders at this location, and a concern for the safety and well -being of swimmers, beachgoers and kiteboarders, Ocean Rescue placed a lifeguard stand at 26th Street. Due to the current ordinance which prohibits watercraft in restricted swim areas (i.e., in front of lifeguard stands), the placement of this lifeguard stand displaced the kiteboarders from this area. On November 7, 2017, the Marine and Waterfront Protection Authority (MWPA) discussed this matter. Members of the kiteboarding community expressed their disappointment with the placement of the lifeguard stand at 26th Street and asked that they be allowed to continue to kiteboard in that area. Representatives from the City advised them the lifeguard stand was placed at that location for life safety reasons and that the City has a non - motorized watersports channel at 76th Street which is designated for kiteboarding. Both the City and the kiteboarders agreed that life safety is the top priority and agreed to work towards a viable solution regarding this matter. Page 1278 of 1522 ANALYSIS Public Kiteboarding Locations /Concessions in Miami -Dade County Other than 76th Street on Miami Beach, there are two other public kiteboarding locations in Miami - Dade County. Adventure Sports Miami is located inside Matheson Hammock Park and operates immediately adjacent to a parking lot and an open area on Biscayne Bay. This location is not comparable to Miami Beach as there are essentially no swimmers or beachgoers in the area used by the kiteboarders. Miami Kiteboarding (MKB) is located inside Crandon Park and operates on a relatively isolated section of beachfront on the east side of Key Biscayne. MKB offers kiteboarding lessons and rentals, as well as rentals of kayaks and stand up paddleboards. Kiteboarding Associations There are several kiteboarding associations such as the International Kiteboarding Organization (IKO), the Professional Air Sports Association (PASA) and the International Kiteboarding Association (IKA). All of these associations serve to teach and promote safe participation in the sport. All three of the concessions operating in Miami -Dade County are members of the International Kiteboarding Organization (IKO). According to IKO's website "IKO is the world's leading kiteboarding organization specializing in kiteboard education, promoting safe practices and enhancing the highest standards for the industry. IKO strives to reach the pure excellence in the teaching experience by finding the perfect balance of fun and safety while keeping each kiteboarder's individuality in mind". IKO offers various courses and certifications, attached hereto as Attachment 1 — IKO Courses and Certifications. As reflected in green on Attachment 1, there are five levels of certifications for a Kiteboarder. Level 1 = Discovery (Beginner), Level 2 = Intermediate, Level 3 = Independent, Level 4 = Advanced and Level 5 = Evolution. A detailed description of Levels 1 -4 is attached hereto as Attachment 2 — Description of Levels. Level 3 is generally considered a proficient rider who is capable of operating safely and independently, without the need for instruction. The other associations have similar courses and certifications consistent with the IKO. Potential Kiteboarding Locations Ocean Rescue has recommended the City limit kiteboarding activities to only one (1) area in order to consolidate the kiteboarders in the water and the kites deployed on the shoreline to a single location. Ocean Rescue further recommends the designated area should be outside of any restricted swim areas (300' from any lifeguard stands) and, in order to provide adequate space, a minimum of 500' wide (approximately one city block). This area could be designated as a kiteboarding area utilizing signage and /or cones and the general public (i.e., beachgoers, swimmers, etc.) would know to avoid this area if they were concerned with the activity. To avoid designating a kiteboarding area behind any private properties, the City could designate an area behind City -owned properties such as parks and parking lots. Below is a list of City -owned properties located upland of the beachfront. Also included are key considerations regarding each location. 1) South Pointe Park (Government Cut) Width: 578 feet Challenges: Within restricted swim area, adjacent to jetty, Continuum concession to north 2) Marjory Stoneman Douglas Park (2nd to 3rd Streets) Width: 508 feet Challenges: Within restricted swim area, designated surfing area, Marriot concession to south 3) Lummus Park (5th Street to 14th Lane) Page 1279 of 1522 Width: 4,461 feet Challenges: Multiple restricted swim areas, multiple public concessions 4) Collins Park (21St to 22nd Streets) Width: 402 feet Challenges: Within restricted swim area, less than 500' wide, public concession, Days Inn concession to south, The W concession to north 5) 36th Street Park (35th to 36th Streets) Width: 200 feet Challenges: Within restricted swim area, less than 500' wide, public concession, Versailles concession to south, Westgate concession to north 6) Indian Beach Park (46th Street) Width: 600 feet Challenges: Within restricted swim area, public concession, Eden Roc concession to south 7) Fire Station # 3 / 53rd Street Parking Lot (53rd Street) Width: 309 feet Challenges: Within restricted swim area, less than 500' wide, future site of Sabrina Cohen adaptive recreation center 8) Allison Park (64th Street) Width: 397 feet Challenges: Within restricted swim area, less than 500' wide 9) Miami Beach Bandshell (72nd to 73rd Streets) Width: 463 feet Challenges: Within restricted swim area, less than 500' wide (may be combined with Ocean Terrace, North Shore Library and Altos del Mar) 10) Ocean Terrace (73rd to 75th Streets) Width: 870 feet Challenges: Public concession, (may be combined with Miami Beach Bandshell, North Shore Library and Altos del Mar) 11) North Shore Library (75th to 76th Streets) Width: 155 feet Challenges: Less than 500' wide (may be combined with Miami Beach Bandshell, Ocean Terrace and Altos del Mar) 12) Altos del Mar Park (76th to 77th Streets) Width: 303 feet Challenges: Renovations to Park commencing January 2018, less than 500' wide (may be combined with Miami Beach Bandshell, Ocean Terrace and North Shore Library) 13) North Shore Open Space Park (79th to 87th Streets) Width: 2,752 feet Challenges: Multiple restricted swim areas Ocean Rescue has proposed the north end of this location between 84th and 86th Streets. Page 1280 of 1522 They would shift two lifeguard stands to accommodate the required distance from restricted swim areas. Public Workshop #1 On December 1, 2017, the City held a public workshop at the North Beach Youth Center, organized by Code Compliance, to gain input regarding regulating kiteboarding on the beachfront. Approximately twenty members of the community were in attendance including members of the Miami Beach Kiteboarding Foundation (MBKF) and representatives from Boucher Brothers and their kiteboarding subcontractor TKS Concessions. There were two residents from Triton Towers (2899 Collins Avenue) attending as concerned beachgoers. Commissioner Rosen Gonzalez and Commissioner Samuelian attended the workshop as well as Commission Aides for Commissioner Gongora, Commissioner Steinberg and Commissioner Rosen Gonzalez. Also in attendance were Vincent Canosa, Ocean Rescue Chief, as well as City staff from the Office of Real Estate, Code Compliance and the City Manager's Office. Public Workshop #2 On February 9, 2018, the City held a second public workshop at the North Beach Youth Center, organized by Code Compliance, to gain additional input regarding regulating kiteboarding on the beachfront. Approximately 60 members of the community were in attendance including members of the Miami Beach Kiteboarding Foundation (MBKF) and representatives from condominium buildings such as Triton Towers, Oceanfront Plaza, and Club Atlantis. Commissioner Gongora gave opening remarks at the workshop and the Commission Aide for Commissioner Samuelian was present throughout. Also in attendance were Vincent Canosa, Ocean Rescue Chief, as well as City staff from the Office of Real Estate, Code Compliance Department, Environment and Sustainability Department, and the City Manager's Office. The participants were asked to break out into facilitated group discussions held at five tables. The discussions were facilitated by City staff and the conversations were focused around three leading questions: 1 . To what extent should be City of Miami Beach regulate kiteboarding? What role (if any) should the City play? 2 . To what extent should the City restrict where kite -surf can or take kitesurfing lessons, and if restrictions are in place, where should kite surfing be permitted? 3 . What is the best way to ensure the safety of both kite surfers and other nearby users of the water? The feedback obtained from the five facilitated group discussions had three main themes. The need to create a way in which the City could regulate and enforce rules, creation of an area specifically designated for learning, and a certification or registration process by which experienced kiters would submit their credentials. A summary of the specific ideas and suggestions is attached hereto as Attachment 5 — Public Workshop #2 Summary. The City has also launched an online feedback forum for individuals who were not able to attend the public meetings. The online tool can be found by following this link: http : / /bit.ly /miamikiteboarding. Additionally, at the meeting, representatives from Oceanfront Plaza Condominium, located at 2625 Collins Avenue, provided City staff with a petition, attached hereto as Attachment 6 — Kitesurfing Petition, demanding that kitesurfers be banned from the 26th Street location. Forty -two (82 %) respondents agreed with the ban and nine (18 %) disagreed. Page 1281 of 1522 The MBKF gave a brief presentation about kiteboarding, attached hereto as Attachment 3 — MBKF Presentation, which offered information about the sport, popular locations throughout the United States and information about the safe operation of equipment. Following the presentation, the attendees broke out into two groups — one focused on locations and the other focused on rules and management. City staff elicited input and ideas from the participants. At the halfway point, the participants switched tables to ensure everyone had an opportunity to provide input on both topics. A summary of the specific ideas and suggestions is attached hereto as Attachment 4 — Public Workshop #1 Summary. Regulating Kiteboarding There are two activities associated with kiteboarding. There are instructors /students participating in instructional lessons and there are riders who are kiteboarding independently (some more proficiently than others). For safety purposes, these two activities should occur separately, even though they may be at the same designated location (i.e., lessons on the north side and independent riders on the south side). In order to accommodate both activities, a concessionaire may be utilized to manage the designated kiteboarding area, similar to Matheson Hammock and Crandon Park. There are a number of options in this regard, including requiring that all kiteboarders are registered with the concessionaire (perhaps including a fee); requiring that all registered kiteboarders are identified with a streamer attached to their kite; limiting the number of kiteboarders in the water /and or shoreline at any one time; requiring minimum distances from the shoreline and swimmers; and perhaps most importantly, due to the inherent danger associated with the activity, requiring kiteboarders to be certified as IKO Level 3 (or equivalent), otherwise they must obtain instruction until Level 3 certification is achieved. Neighborhood /Community Affairs Committee This matter was presented at the December 20, 2017 Neighborhood /Community Affairs Committee (NCAC) meeting. The NCAC considered the issues presented and agreed there is a need to regulate kiteboarding. The NCAC requested the item be brought back for discussion, including suggestions for regulating the activity, after obtaining additional input from the public. Subsequent to the second public meeting held on February 9, 2018, this matter was again presented at the February 21, 2018 NCAC meeting. The Administration recommended designating three locations for kiteboarding including 35th Street, 76th Street and 84th Street. The Administration also discussed additional rules which could be implemented including IKO (or equivalent) Level 3 certification, registration with the City of approved riders, a minimum distance requirement from swimmers and the shore and no flying the kites over shore except when launching or landing. The existing location at 76th Street would be the only location authorized for lessons, but would also allow Level 3 riders. The 84th Street location would not allow kiteboarding on weekends or holidays. The NCAC considered these issues and recommended in favor of allowing kiteboarding at 35th Street, 76th Street and 84th Street. Further, the NCAC directed the Administration to research additional locations at 25th Street, 55th Street and 65th Street. In this regard, the Administration met with representatives of the kiteboarding community on February 27, 2018 and discussed said locations. The Administration does not recommend designating a kiteboarding location at 53rd Street as this is the proposed location of the Sabrina Cohen adaptive recreation center. The Administration will agree to allow kiteboarding at the 84th Street location seven days a week. The Administration is receptive to designating two additional kiteboarding locations at 25th Street and 64th Street, although I do have some concern that the 64th Street location is our only adaptive beach at this moment. Due to the high volume of beachgoers at 25th Street, the Administration recommends, if this location is approved, that it be on a six (6) month trial Page 1282 of 1522 basis so the City may monitor and ensure the safety of the public. We would also want to ensure that all activity be limited to the area behind the language school and none behind the residential buildings. Amending the City Code Upon determining the best policies and procedures for regulating kiteboarding it will be necessary to update the City Code by amending the provisions in Sections 82 -466 through 82 -470 regarding definitions, prohibited watercraft in restricted swim areas, prohibiting watercraft in certain non- restricted swim areas, exceptions for the launch and use of certain watercraft in permitted areas, providing requirements regarding safety equipment and distance, providing exceptions regarding restricted and non - restricted swim areas, and amending the provisions for enforcement and penalties. CONCLUSION The Administration recommends that the Mayor and City Commission accept the recommendation of the Neighborhood /Community Affairs Committee and adopt the Resolution. The Administration seeks direction regarding the 25th and 64th Street locations. Legislative Tracking Tourism, Culture and Economic Development Sponsor Commissioner Kristen Rosen Gonzalez ATTACHMENTS: Description o Attachment 1 o Attachment 2 - o Attachment 3 - o Attachment 4 - o Attachment 5 - o Attachment 6 - - I KO Courses and Certifications Description of Levels MBKF Presentation Public Workshop 1 Summary Public Workshop 2 Summary Kite Surfing Petition (Oceanfront Plaza Condo) Page 1283 of 1522 Courses and Certifications rses and Certifications Glick on the level to read more about the course and the certification. Advanced kiteboarder's course, Level 4 included Evolution Levels Advanced Level d iscovery Level 1 A l,5truCta Conch Examtn Trainer oath Intermediate TRAINER INSTRUCTOR ;K R Page 1284 of 1522 Level 1 — Beginner Discovery Certification Detail The Discovery course is where the dream star is! After taking this course, you will be proficient in all of the following. Get certified by au IKO Instructor or Afflicted School and receive the IKO Member Card. The MO Member Card is your Kiteboardinu passport, S.E.A. (Spot, Environment, Activity) Assessment Holding, Carrying and Securing a Kite on Land Kite Set Up B Safety Systems Use Pre-Flinht Check C Launching and Landing as an Assistant First piloting and explore the Wind Window's Edge Let Go of the Bar Twist and Untwist the Lines D Flying One-Handed Trim Discovery Walking While Flying the Kite Launching and Landing as a Pilot Wind Window Theory In flight Quick Release Activation Self-Landing Equipment Packing Page 1285 of 1522 Level 2 — Intermediate Intermediate Certification detail After taking this course, you will be proficient in all of the following: F Enter and Exit the Water While Controllina the Kite Water Relaunch G Side Body-drag with 2 Hands Body-drag with Power Stroke on Both Sides Body-drag Upwind Body-drag with the Board Self-Rescue and Pack Down Discovery KO W. Rules Introduction Steady-pull Water-stan Page 1286 of 1522 Level 3 — Independent Independent - Certification Detail After taking thi course, yon will be proficient in all of the fattening: Controlled Stop Control of Riding Speed by Edging K Riding Upwind L Sliding Transitions • Toe-Side Riding Toe-Side Turn • Self-Launching Self-Rescue and Pack Down in Deep Water Page 1287 of 1522 Level 4 — Advanced Kiteboarder Level 4 - Certification Detail IKO Level 4 is the riding prerequisite that :MOWS access to an Instructor Training Course (ITC) 1 Basic Jump 2 Jibe 3 Jump with Grab 4 Rider Recovery 5 Board Recovery 6 International Kneboardina Signs and ROW 7 Equipment 8 Weather and Tides 9 Aerodynamics Page 1288 of 1522 4-0 CO -- C U) Co 0 to +.' CO r-1 +4 C .'"":1, c N ca ® V) Lrug S3 - V) Q C V O -N ( N Z L1. CI. CO Page 1292 of 1522 • „Hi eson Hammoc uneunaasrw Miami Beach Kiteboarders fa,.._, ,, ,2„„....„,„„,.. , ,,,,„,,,,..,,.,,w,,,,.,,,,, ,.,,,., , 4 4 awmi di nh%e .,,..,i , , " , . \ y{ A ti f l m } -'^»*- sww,.�v.^ an ,� * ` Via"`&, +...,.,`" �a "*- ''" ,"� ;' , moo. 3 k" .w 4**'; r .. ,t° HMO «. } • Non- profit organization formed by �(, ," w R�. .__" Kiteboarders in 2012 " • Promote Kiteboarding Safety Y .me@yvb w. Ro '. 4 'p M r fin..:.. • Preserve access for Kiteboarders in Miami . aci 1 ��� a(�. ,,a QT Q) .N a, o 4- { 4-- CO .l V) v 0 aA :.=' N c 5G N 0 } CO to to .03 613 C7 yam_, .- v Q CI 0 L- Z C1 0 4 0 4— CU Q tuo 4-i N c ..V...1.7 N O 'Li O C N+-. CD 0 W) u r 4 0 O CU CU �Q-Q E O °' till 4J 4A c N 5... +-0 t/} hies with the Biggest Kite Populations 0 r 111 trannannunninannanan i i LEL LrLEIOI. �* c Q.) CD 1.3 Q CC5 Q y-- d o tuo 4' . +-a N c >N CD 7 p' c N r tv) 1 s.. 0 Q3 L4 7 O (1) v Z a a m Page 1292 of 1522 L+i .... a °§�,,. .v , x ,N ,i,, w' . ..�, a . 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' -Stay Zoo Feet From Shore :, , .,. „,,,,,,,,, .., ., ,,,,.,,,,,,,,,. . ,. ,,, ., ., xi ' ' Sta 50 Feet From Swimmers „,,,,,,„ - Never FIy Kite Over the Beach (For Launching and Land ONLY Kiteboarding A to be Permitted Near Lifeguard , for our Safety!! ., a • e 1305 of 152..;!., Kite Surfing Public Input & Ideas Event - Summary of Information Gathered North Shore Park & Youth Center December 1, 2017 10AM -12PM GROUP ONE Locations: • Characteristics of a good location o Not on Bay, no wind o Multiple locations are needed - if all are put into one restricted area it is not safe for the kiters o The entire beach is ideal for the sport o Learning areas need to be free of people /beach goers o Locations close to kiter's homes • 38th Street ■ 25th / 26th Street o Differing opinions on area required to launch • 22 -33 meters • Less than 22 meters; same size area as an umbrella or beach chair • Designated Learning Areas - Specific areas should be designated for learners (below a level 3 certification). Accidents are more likely caused by an inexperienced kiter and additional learning locations will increase safety. These locations can also be used by more experienced kiters as well. Potential learning locations include: o 34th Street near Faena parking lot (have to consider future plans for the area) o 76th Street with an expansion of concession area o 46th Street o 53rd Street o Open Space Park • Open Access - Experienced kiters should be able to use any area of the beach. o IKO or PASA certified at a level 3 or above (carry a card) o Create a registration process to clearly identify "experienced" kiters • Streamers with identification number unique to each kiter (Example: TKS) • Can get streamer from a lifeguard stand after showing proof of level 3 or above ■ With the streamer you can launch from anywhere on the beach • 2 or more for "buddy system" launching • No streamer = have to use a designated learning location • Other ideas o Area closer to lifeguard stands so they can enforce the rules and issue citations Page 1 of 4 Page 1309 of 1522 o Expand 76th Street concession to include one side for learners and the other side for experienced kiters o Channels put out on windy days (similar to how channels are put out for jet skis) o Allow kiters to launch from one location but land anywhere o Let kiters use the jet ski channels o Get rid of illegal operators teaching lessons o Signage - • "no commercial activities" • level of certification required /allowed at location • "Learning area" enter at own risk? No swimmers /bathers? Rules & Management: • Rules o Require licensing and insurance (IKO provides insurance) o Level 3 certified allowed anywhere but under level 3 has to use a designated teaching area with certified instructors o Kite 50 feet away from swimmers o No standing on beach with kite in air for an extended amount of time - if your kite is up you are launching o No flying kite over swimmers or beach goers • Management o Communicate rules to hotels o Official statement by city stating that there are unlicensed illegal businesses teaching lessons creating dangerous conditions o Lifeguard should blow the whistle if kiter is entering a restricted area unless ingress or egressing to launch or land. o Register with a lifeguard to get a temporary banner • Enforcement o Lifeguard has authority to enforce • 1st offense - warning • 2nd offense - citation • 3rd offense - ejected from beach GROUP 2 Rules & Management: • Long Beach, Belmont Shore o lifeguard stand o has a lifeguard trained for the location Page 2 of 4 Page 1310 of 1522 o marked areas o stay 200 feet from shore • Rules o Require proper safety equipment o Never fly kite over beach o Post the rules on lifeguard stands • Management o Bands to identify kiters and level o Signage with educational information, including warning information o Areas by skillset with signage • Enforcement of rules o Marine Patrol to enforce o Police Department / Code Compliance to enforce • Fine schedule to include one warning per month Locations: • General comments o Cannot be overly restrictive o Finding a balance o Channels, similar to those used by jet skis, are restrictive o Concerns over riders too close to shore • Enforcement ideas o Privatization of enforcement o Give lifeguards more authority and allow registration o How many lifeguards can be placed / where? o Kite surfers as first line of enforcement o Focus on unsafe operators • Simple signage with rules and levels (similar to TKS) • Open Access o Access anywhere as long as rules are followed o Open access hinders enforcement (non -kiter residents in attendance did not agree with open access) o People naturally congregate to popular areas o Clarify "open access" as "expanded access" • Location and Level ideas O 83rd Level 1 -3 O 76th Level 1 -3 O 55th Level 1 -3 O 34th Level 1 -3 O 24/25th and rest of beach Level 3 (the angle at 24th /25th location is ideal) O 56th — 65th between two lifeguard stands Page 3 of 4 Page 1311 of 1522 0 1st Street before 9:30AM / after 4:30PM • Concern over surfers in area Other locations to research: • Hollywood, FL • Jupiter, FL • Long Beach, Belmont Shore • Pompano Beach, FL • Tampa Bay Area, FL Page 1312 of 1522 Page 4 of 4 KITE SURFING EVENT— GROUP DISCUSSION SUMMARIES DATE: February 9, 2018 LOCATION: North Shore Park & Youth Center TIME: 10am - Noon GROUP 1: Facilitated by Yani Peneda (Table located at the front of the room, near the projector screen, on the left side) 1. To what extent should be City of Miami Beach regulate kiteboarding? What role (if any) should the City play? • CMB should have the primary role • Regulate fines , warnings • No commercial kite boarding not authorized by City • IKO level 3 minimum • Every kilter should roll lines and stack kites • Concerns over sport in areas with erosion (Triton Towers/ 27 ST). • Be proactive • Lifeguards should enforce • Address and regulate similar to other sports • Finding a balance between all beach equipment. • Certain times allowed for certain conditions • Beginners can't surf in low winds, experts can. • Only launch /land on beach and otherwise no kite over beach • Certifications required. Can surf on beach if a resident • Registration process identified with streamers/ cost to cover registration process • Mimic Crandon park program 2. To what extent should the City restrict where kite -surf can or take kitesurfing lessons, and if restrictions are in place, where should kite surfing be permitted? • Learners need to be in an IKO certified area • Experienced kite surfers should have multiple locations so overcrowding doesn't occur • If not a level 3 you need to be taking lessons from a certified school • Would like a second learning location • Experienced IK03 kite surfers shouldn't be restricted to location Page 1313 of 1522 KITE SURFING EVENT —GROUP DISCUSSION SUMMARIES • Feel that kite surfers are being unfairly regulated /penalized in comparison to biking, skating. • Certified IKO3 kite surfers are able to kite in the following: 1st - 5th, 23rd - 29th, 33rd- 37th, 45th - 58th, 65th - 75th, and 82nd - 85th. Don't push past 85th block will clash with Surfside kite surfers. • Or everywhere except on certain locations. In the zones lo launch /land there should be cones or channels, shouldn't sunbathe in that area. © own risk. • Differentiate between hotel beaches with concessions and residential condo buildings , with less populated beaches • The Home resident: • Cones between 25 - 29 to block off kite boarders, no kite surfing • Highly populated building, lots of children • Identification with picture. 3. What is the best way to ensure the safety of both kite surfers and other nearby users of the water? • Creating rules IKO • City to enforce MBKF rules • Level 3 IKO issued cards or streamers if you are level 3 • Official streamer issued by City of Miami Beach • Annual renewal • Visitors can sign up with lifeguard, city agent , or IKO certified school without streamers Priorities • Enforcement - (Code, police, Ocean rescue) • Certifications - IKO , MBKF, Streamers • No kites lessons outside of IKO certified schools • Designated egress /j access areas • More areas to launch /land to reduce congestion - open access • Safety of children and elderly community between 25 -29 • Limit kite surfing in areas with narrow beach • Move north 150 yard the 26th street lifeguard tower so that adjacent residences will not have such a high population of kite surfers. GROUP 2: Facilitated by Amy Mehu (Table located at the front of the room, near the projector screen, on the right side) Page 1314 of 1522 KITE SURFING EVENT —GROUP DISCUSSION SUMMARIES 1. To what extent should the City of Miami Beach regulate kiteboarding? What role (if any) should the City play? Enforcement : City & Kiters , Establishing rules • Launch areas for license check lifeguards • 200 feet from • Allowance for emergency landing • Sign -in & registration w /license • Permitting • No surfing in /out • Not kiting on shore • Level 3 certification Kiting Zones • Training Areas • Zones for beginners only • Experience Levels • Footprint of Area • Tags /streamers for permission • Licensing -IKO Zone needs: • Lifeguard stands • Signage • Demarcation • No swimming • Enforcement • Equipment station • Teaching should be restricted to area w /licensed surfers • 600 ft. of channel 2. To what extent should the City restrict where people can kite -surf or take kitesurfing lessons, and if restrictions are in place, where should kitesurfing be permitted? • Teaching Zones • Certifications & de- certifications • City enforcement rules Page 1315 of 1522 KITE SURFING EVENT — GROUP DISCUSSION SUMMARIES 3. What is the best way to ensure the safety of both kite surfers and other nearby users of the water? See responses to 1 & 2 Priorities • Designated area for beginners and lessons • Enforceable rules developed by the City to be enforced by City officials • Certification Process GROUP 3: Facilitated by Antita Baquero & Randi MacBride (Table located in the middle of the room) 1. To what extent should the City of Miami Beach regulate kiteboarding? What role (if any) should the City play? • Regulate commercial and recreational use for Kitesurfing • Do not ban Kitesurfing • Regulate instructors and certifications • Designate and mark areas for kite surfers • Channels for access points /Buoys for markers • Other cities have kiteboarding designated locations • Currently only two locations for kitesurfing. Need more locations /Access Points • Show certifications to lifeguards for check -in • Streamers on kite surfers after check -in • Designated streamers with individual tag numbers to be worn • Instructors should be required to have proper certifications • The city should require concessions to have licenses, certifications and permits, etc. • Kite surfing has to be done behind the markers that exist for powercraft. This is critical, to protect a kite surfer getting close to bathers that stay closer to the shore. • No kite flying practicing along the shore. This will prevent kites from landing on people that are sitting at the beach. This would also mean that they have to teach somewhere else. • Entry and exit channels to get to the area behind the markers need to be in areas of low beach usage. • One other one was kite surfers staying more than 50' from bathers. Page 1316 of 1522 KITE SURFING EVENT —GROUP DISCUSSION SUMMARIES 2. To what extent should the City restrict where people can kite -surf or take kitesurfing lessons, and if restrictions are in place, where should kitesurfing be permitted? • Access points throughout North Beach - South Beach for experienced Kite surfers • Spaces /Designated points for training /learning Kiteboarding • Rescue craft needed such as jet ski, in case of emergency • Enough space to launch Kitesurf on the sand - 30 feet width • As soon as Kite surf is launched on the sand, immediately proceed to the water. No waiting or hanging out. 3. What is the best way to ensure the safety of both kite surfers and other nearby users of the water? • Designated areas and access points • Rules posted /Signage showing the rules • Consequences - Fines /tickets • Enforcement- onsite for quick response • No practicing on the beach Priorities • Designated areas /Access points for experienced kite surfers • Access points throughout North Beach -South Beach for experienced kite surfers • Designated areas for training /schools • Regulate commercial /recreational use • Channels /buoys for markers • Show certifications to lifeguards for check -in • Streamers with individual tag numbers to be worn • Enough Space for kite surfers to launch- 30 feet width • Once Kite surfer is launched, immediately proceed to water • Rules posted /Signage showing the rules • Enforcement onsite for quick response • No practicing on the beach • Consequences- Fines /tickets GROUP 4: Facilitated by Mark Milisits (Table located in the back of the room, on the left side) Page 1317 of 1522 KITE SURFING EVENT —GROUP DISCUSSION SUMMARIES 1. To what extent should the City of Miami Beach regulate kiteboarding? What role (if any) should the City play? • Designate multiple locations & make them no swim zones • Mark the beachfront w /appropriate signage • Kite surfers want to come close to shore /waves within the designated areas • City should be fully involved in regulating day by day kitesurfing (not vendors) • All kite surfers should check -in or be registered with ocean rescue or vendor in order to be allowed to surf 2. To what extent should the City restrict where people can kite -surf or take kitesurfing lessons, and if restriction are in place, where should kitesurfing be permitted? • 30th Street • 76th Street (existing location) should be made larger for commercial (lessons) and separate location for recreational • 24th Street • B/W 25th and 26th Street • 85th Street • 64th Street 3. What is the best way to ensure the safety of both kite surfers and other nearby users of the water? • Resident -does not want to worry about being hit with a kite surfer. Main concern is safety. Prefer that the City Ocean Rescue /Marine Patrol enforce off -shore activities • In designated locations, should be regulated by a third party /vendor • Educate the public regarding risks • Launch and land in designated areas only • Train ocean rescue • Stay 50 ft. from swimmers • 200 ft. from shore • Designate approved areas w /buoys • Must be enforcement /safety is priority • Level 3 certification required Priorities • Multiple designated water channel /areas for kite surfers with signage and buoys • Regulation • Enforcement Page 1318 of 1522 KITE SURFING EVENT —GROUP DISCUSSION SUMMARIES GROUP 5: Facilitated by Vincent Canosa (Table located in the back of the room near the sign -in table, on the right side) 1. To what extend should the city of Miami Beach regulate Kiteboarding? What role (if any) should the City play? • Enforce existing rules that are against unlicensed teaching • Kite's close proximity within the beach is the problem, eliminate that will solve the problem - Enforcement of the three rules is necessary: o No Kiting 50 feet from swimmers o Must kite 200 yards from shore o No flying kite over beach except to launch and land 0 • Learners should be surfboarding at a legal concession place like TKS, not on the beach • Create a rule that will keep Kite boarders 200ft from shores, most of the kiteboarding problems will go to 84th street 2. To what extend should the city restrict where people can Kite -Surf or take Kitesurfing lessons, and if restrictions are in place, where should Kitesurfing be permitted? • Commercial Kitesurfing and recreational surfing should take place in different location. • No restriction on where recreational Kitesurfing should take place • Beginners are more likely to hurt people, public safety is their main concern • There should be no swimming on rip current days 3. What is the best way to ensure the safety of both Kite surfers and other nearby users of the water? • Patrolling and give out tickets to violators • The Miami Beach kiteboarding rules • No commercial on 26th Street Page 1319 of 1522 KITE SURFING EVENT —GROUP DISCUSSION SUMMARIES • Keep one street open for recreational • Surfboarders must have a level 3 or higher to surfboard on the beach • Exclude learners and beginners from surfboarding on the beach to prevent more problems Priorities • Enforce existing rules such as the 3 Miami Beach Kite surfing Rules • Commercial Kitesurfing and recreational surfing should take place in different location. • Kite surfers must have a level 3 or higher to surf on the beach Page 1320 of 1522 Oceanfront Plaza Condominium Association, inc. 2625 Collins Avenue Miami Beach, Florida 33140 Office: (305) 534 -6831 - Fax: (305) 672 -0457 ofpc.association rr att.net Our 26th Street beautiful beach has been invaded with kite surfers. They even opened shop (illegally) teaching the skills involved in that sport. Many of our residents have complained to City Hall about the risks involved for beach goers in the area due to the increasing activity of these kite surfers on our little strip of beach. Our Condominium Association truly appreciates that City Hall was receptive and built the lifeguard station, which has deterred some of the activity. However, these kite surfers now simply show up after the lifeguards finish their shift. Our residents have witnessed how they have clearly violated the 300 foot restriction with water devices in the swimming area. Owners and residents of 2625 Collins Avenue, the Oceanfront Plaza Condominium, with this petition to the City of Miami Beach Commission, support when our city officials take our side and find a way to pressure these risk- taking surfers to limit their activities to specific areas, preferably not in front of out building. We suggest using areas next to public parks and parking lots. We have had incidents where kites flown into our swimming pool almost hitting residents. It feels unsafe to be there at the beach all the while they dangerously zoom in and out between swimmers. In other words: enough is enough! We are afraid and believe these kite surfers will not stop until someone gets hurt. When and if that happens, we are holding the City of Miami Beach responsible for their indifference towards finding a solution fast, before someone has an accident. Below signers, tax paying residents and owners of condo units at 2625 Collins Avenue, acknowledge our support against the presence of kite surfers in front of our beach as well as if there is anyone in this property interested in allowing kite surfing along our stretch of the beach you may sign also this petition next to the signatures panel expressing if you "AGREE" or "DO NOT AGREE" with the petition. It will be found in the administration where we have provided a box for each option. Petition will be delivered to the Kite Surfing Public input & Ideas Event to be held by the City of Miami Beach on Friday, February 9, 2018 from 10 AM to 12 PM at North Shore Park and Youth Center located at 501 72 Street, Miami Beach, 33141 Page 1321 of 1522 i� Oceanfront Plaza Condominium Association, Inc. 2625 Collins Avenue Miami Beach, Florida 33140 Office: (305) 534 -6831 - Fax: (305) 672 -0457 ofpc. associ ation@att. n et Nuestra Hermosa playa de la Calle 26 ha sido invadida por individuos practicando el deporte de kite - surfing. Inclusive operan (ilegaimente) un negocio de instrucciOn de este deporte. Muchos de nuestros residentes se han quejado ante el Ayuntamiento sobre los riesgos que corren los banistas debido al aumento de la actividad de estos deportistas acuaticos en nuestra pequena franja de playa. Este Asociacion de condominio agradece cuando el Ayuntamiento fue receptivo en el pasado. Sin embargo, ahora los kite- surfistas se aparecen despues de que el salvavidas termina su turno. Nuestros residentes han sido testigos de como han violado, claramente, Ia restriccibn de mantenerse a 300 pies del area de los banistas por parte de los que practican el use de estos dispositivos acuaticos. Hemos experimentedo incidentes en que los equipos volaron a nuestra piscine casi golpeando a los residentes. Nos sentimos inseguros en Ia playa todo el tiempo cuando les vemos acercarse y a!ejarse peligrosamente entre banistas. En fin: iYa es demasiado! Tenemos miedo y estamos seguros de que estos kitesurfistas no se detendran hasty que alguien se lastime. Cuando esto suceda, responsabilizamos a la Ciudad de Miami Beach por su indiferencia en encontrar una rapida solucion, antes de que alguien sufra un accidente. Los que firmamos, a continuacion, residentes y propietarios de unidades de condominio del 2625 Collins Avenue y que contribuimos con los impuestos a Ia economia local, declaramos ester opuestos a la presencia de kitesurfistas frente a nuestra playa y todo aquel interesado en permitir kitesurfistas en nuestro frente, pueden firmer en esta peticion indicando si estan o no de acuerdo con la misma ( "AGREE" o "DO NOT AGREE ") at marcar la cajilla correspondiente de las dos ultimas columnas. Pueden encontrar la peticion en Ia oficina de la administracion. Este peticion con ambos puntos de vista, sera entregada durante el evento al respecto que celebrara la Ciudad de Miami Beach el Viernes 9 de febrero, 2018 de 10 AM a 12 PM en el North Shore Park and Youth Center sito en 501 72 Street, Miami Beach, 33141. Page 1322 of 1522 OCEANFRONT PLAZA CONDOMINIUM PETITION TO THE CITY OF MIAMI BEACH OFFICIALS WHEREAS SIGNING RESIDENTS AND UNIT OWNERS DEMAND THAT KITE - SURFERS ARE BANNED FROM THE 26 STREET BEACHFRONT STRETCH. NAME UNIT NO SIGNATURE 1 AGREE WITH THIS PETITION I DO NOT AGREE WITH THIS PETITION 1 ' /C.. ., INIZEININZEM 111111111.11111111111.11.111 II > 7/ G-- Page 1323 of 1522 OCEANFRONT PLAZA CONDOMINIUM PETITION TO THE CITY OF MIAMI BEACH OFFICIALS WHEREAS SIGNING RESIDENTS AND UNIT OWNERS DEMAND THAT KITE - SURFERS ARE BANNED FROM THE 26 STREET BEACHFRONT STRETCH. NAM E UNIT NO. ft-51( -0 SIGNATURE I AGREE WITH THIS PETITION I DO NOT AGREE WITH THIS PETITION 7 o Loosorearei Page 1324 of 1522 OCEANFRONT PLAZA CONDOMINIUM PETITION TO THE CITY OF MIAMI BEACH OFFICIALS WHEREAS SIGNING RESIDENTS AND UNIT OWNERS DEMAND THAT KITE - SURFERS ARE BANNED FROM THE 26 STREET BEACHFRONT STRETCH. NAME UNIT NO. SIGNATURE d3 Page 1325 of 1522