LTC 118-2025 Update on Open House for 7605 Collins AvenueMIAMI BEACH
OFFICE OF THE CITY MANAGER
LTC# LETTER TO COMMISSION
TO:
FROM:
DATE:
SUBJECT:
Honorable Mayor Steven Meiner and Members of the City Commission
Eric Carpenter, City Manager � �
March 17, 2025
Update on Open House for 7605 Collins Avenue
The purpose of this Letter to Commission (L TC) is to provide an update on the 'open house' held
for 7605 Collins Avenue pursuant to Resolution 2024-33425. The administration hosted an open
house on February 6, 2025 with the goal of showcasing the space and gathering community
feedback regarding its potential use. Following the event, staff received a range of feedback from
residents and stakeholders. Below is a summary of the key themes expressed:
Community Feedback Summary
Feedback on the future use of 7605 Collins Avenue was diverse, with residents expressing a
range of ideas and priorities. Some attendees were pleased to learn that the property would be
used for Building Department staff, offering closer city services in North Beach. Others
expressed interest in exploring alternative uses that would provide different community benefits.
Many residents highlighted the need for more cultural, educational and environmental
programming in North Beach and suggested that the property could serve as a multi-use
community space. There was also a shared desire to integrate any future use with the
surrounding park and neighborhood, ensuring accessibility and enhancing the character of North
Beach. Additionally, several attendees expressed a willingness to volunteer their time and
expertise to support community-driven initiatives at the site.
Alternative Uses Proposed
Residents shared a variety of alternative uses for the property, all of which focused on
community enrichment and engagement. Suggestions included:
•Community Cultural Center: A space for local artists, musicians and organizations to host
exhibitions, performances, and educational workshops.
•Beach Club for Residents: A membership-based venue with reasonable fees, providing a
gathering space for local residents.
•Events Venue: A rental space for weddings, retreats, and workshops to generate revenue
while fostering local engagement.
•Environmental & Marine Science Center: A facility dedicated to sea turtle conservation
and marine education, integrating with Altos Del Mar Park.
•Public Safety: An Ocean Rescue and/or Police Substation.
•Library Integration: Enhancing or expanding North Shore Branch Library by incorporating
7605 Collins Avenue.
•Art & Cultural Programs: Dedicated space for art classes, ceramics, poetry readings, and
cultural programs for seniors and adults.
118-2025
• Tourist & Community Welcome Center: A hub offering visitor information, cultural
programming, and shared office space for local nonprofits.
• Public Space Improvements : Suggestions to remove the security wall , repurpose the pool
area, and create an outdoor event space.
Next Steps
Given the level of community engagement and the strong preference for public use, the
administration is reviewing the feedback and exploring potential pathways that align with both
community interests and the city's operational needs. The next steps will include assessing the
feasibility of proposed uses, engaging further with the community to refine concepts , and
determining funding options for any potential renovations or operational costs.
Attached to this L TC are copies of emails received from residents, further detailing their
perspectives and proposals.
MIH/K~
j,{~
Wednesday. March 12. 2025 at 11 :25:51 Eastern Daylight Time
Subject: The Perez home purchased by MB
Date: Thursday, February 13, 2025 at 10 :35 :01 Eastern Standard Time
From: Rosie Betancourt
To: Pulido, Kevin
I You don't often get email from rosie.betancourt@gmail.com . Learn whv. this is imRortant
[ THIS MESSAGE COMES FROM AN EXTERNAL EMAIL -t;SE f' AUTION WHEN
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Hi, Kevin
It would be great if there was a program of art, ceramics and perhaps a reading or book clubs
room available for either seniors or adults. We need indoors gathering spaces that can be
reserved by groups for ciltural activities since there are no shaded benches in the parks around
and our heat is sweltering . Unidad has a great art class but the facility is open in the lobby and
not conducive to proper class or art lab. Park design in this area has ignored that people have
backs and instead are populated by uncomfortable concrete walls and benches. There is a large
senior voting population in the area that does not play panel or volleyball , but it seems we're not
getting any pampering from city officials , or at least a small return on our property Taxes. Please
do something. Even Cleveland has a poetry garden in their downtown area. Miami Beach could
do something as sophisticated, right?
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Wednesday, March 12, 2025 at 11 :20:23 Eastern Daylight Time
Subject:
Date:
From:
To:
FW : Follow Up from 7605 Collins Ave Open House
Friday, February 7 , 2025 at 12:00 :37 Eastern Standard Time
Guevara , Bianca
Pulido , Kevin
MIAMI AC
Bianca Guevara , Permit Coordinator
OFFIC E OF MAR KETING & COMMUNICAT ION S
1700 Convention Center Drive , Miami Beach, FL 33139
Tel : 786 .750 .6185 I www .miamibea chfl .go v
We are committed to providing excellent public service and safety to all who live , work and play in our vibrant, tropical, historic community.
From: Debra Diana <debrabookl@gmail.com >
Sent: Friday, February 7, 2025 11 :19 AM
To: Guevara, Bianca <BiancaGuevara@miamibeachfl .gov >
Cc: laelora@gmail.com
Subject: Follow Up from 7605 Collins Ave Open House
IYou don 't often get email from debrabook1 @gmail.com . Learn whY. this is imRortant
RE:PLYING AND OPE:NING LINKS OR AT TACHME:N'TS]
Dear Bianca,
AUTION WHEN
It was so nice to meet you yesterday and share some quality conversation about our
amazing North Beach res i dential community!
Thank you to you and the City of Miami Beach for thoughtfully providing an open forum for
community residents to view the fabulous property right on the Altos Del Mar beachfront
park.
As discussed, Laura Lopez and I shared some ideas of how to utilize the property and
create an opportunity to build a local community center for North Beach Residents --
preserving the North Beach residential community.
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Here are a few ideas
1. First and foremost-don't tear it down and don't build up! Can you designate it as a
historical property of the city of Miami Beach instead and perhaps build out plans for
interior renovations?
I had shared a comparison with you to Alphabet City in NYC --very un ique and culturally
rich area that combines gentrification of the area with local res i dents and blends a unique
arts feel very special to the commun ity.
2. It could be a wonderful Beach Club open to res idents of North Miami. If needed, an
annual membership fee could be requested for registered No rth Beach Residents wanting
to utilize the space for community engagement activities. My primary request would be to
make the annual membership fees reasonable s i nce we are a worki ng community! The
pool should stay! Patio furniture and chairs would be a nice touch for members. A great
way to network and build more community locally.
Bianca, you and I discussed finding out what upkeep costs will be associated with
mainta i ning the property-thanks for your review.
3. An Events Venue-open for rentals I.e. weddings , occasions , workshops and retreats .
Supporting entrepreneurship and small local businesses . For example, I have a coaching
business and I would personally set up about 3-4 annual weekend retreats for my women 's
wellbeing workshops in the space since it's on the beach and close to everything. We are
always observing folks doing sunset vows on the beach or creating small gatherings of
celebration on the beach all year round. It should have a liquor license and built in outside
bar area for congregation purposes .
4. A restaurant-although , I think us i ng it for local community residents is ideal.
5 . D isplay art from local artist commun ity of the area (maybe for sale?) --Laura, please
elaborate if you have more to share on this po i nt.
In general, community engagement i s a l ways possible w ith food and drink and a place to
connect .
Please let Laura and I know when you may be available for a coffee connect in the
upcoming weeks. We 'd love to take you on a walk in the immediate area and show you a
few local spots that are treasures in the area and also build i ng community for North Beach.
I am very much an advocate of enhancing the local culture and community exclusive to
North Beach (and not duplicating South Beach). As new towers are being developed in the
area which will bring a l ot more residents and snow birds to North Beach , it is most
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important we cultivate a shared sense of preservation for the unique essence of what North
Beach culture and residential community offers .
With kind regards,
Debra Diana
8000 Harding Avenue, 6F
Miam i Beach , FL 33141
646.438.5012
3 of 3
Subject:
Date:
From:
To:
Wednesday. March 12. 2025 at 11 :20:57 Eastern Daylight Time
Input and feedback on 7605 Collins
Monday, February 10, 2025 at 12 :3 2 :14 Eastern Standard Time
Adam Ganuza
Pulido , Kevin
Attachments: North Beach Welcome Center One-Pager -02.10 .2 5 .pdf
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Hi Kevin,
Thank you for organizing and hosting the open house last week. I took the large turnout as an
indication of the neighborhood 's great interest in the facility.
Please see the attached document. It lays out some specific proposals for how the space could be
used to best complement the Building Dept and Surfrider.
Happy to answer any questions or discuss further.
-AG
Adam Ganuza
Executive Director
The Rhythm Foundation I Miami Beach Bandshell
786 .29 5 .0 666
miamibeachbandshell .com
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* ~ 'Welcome tcr 'North 1Jeach! ~,
North Beach is a gem where rich history and culture blend with a vibrant future. The NORTH
BEACH WELCOME CENTER. Located at 7605 Collins Avenue , would be a gatew ay to this dynam ic
neighborhood , offering a new public space designed to foster community, enrich quality of Life ,
and further reinforce Miami Beach 's identity as a place of A.W.E. (arts , wellness, and environment)
WHAT IS THE NORTH BEACH WELCOME CENTER?
The Welcome Center would be more than just a tourist information hub -it would be an
entrypoint and anchor to what is , in effect, a mile-Long urban oceanfront greenspace that
encompasses Bandshell Par k, Ocean Terrace Park , Altos Del Mar Park , and North Shore Open
Space Park.
With a focus on A.W.E. (arts , wellness, and the environment), the center would offer a wide range
of activities , including workshops , exhibitions, and talks. Beyond programming , the center would
provide shared office space for arts nonprofits , and serve as a gathering place for all who Live in or
visit North Beach.
The inspiration for this Center comes in part from the Welcome Centers in South Beach, whose
positive impact on the area is well established. The South Beach Centers , however, do not include
information about North Beach .
KEY SERVICES OFFERED:
-Tourism Concierge Services : Personalized guidance for visitors to explore North Beach .
The concierges would direct tourists (and curious Locals) to the abundance of arts , culture,
wellness and community events happening in the neighborhood by providing schedules ,
flyers and calendars for the Miami Beach Bandshell, Unidad Center, Altos Del Mar Park ,
North Shore Library, Normandy Fountain , the North Shore Youth Center and much more!
-Public Programming: Public events Like arts , wellness, and eco-themed workshops ,
exhibitions , and talks will engage both residents and visitors , promoting Local talent and
cultural exchange . These programs would also attract more people into the Altos Del Mar
Par k after hours , helping to deter bad actors from the d imly Lit park .
-Shared Administrative Spaces: Office space and a conference room will be made
available for a consortium of North Beach-based arts nonprofits , fostering collaboration
and supporting the local arts infrastructure.
A CATALYST FOR COMMUNITY AND ECONOMIC GROWTH
The North Beach Welcome Center is designed to bring economic and social benefits to the
neighborhood. By drawing tourists , supporting local businesses , and providing a platform for local
nonprofits, the center would be a driver in the development of North Beach . Additionally, it would
provide a tangible proof of concept for the ambitious Byron Carlyle Cu l tural Center and
demonstrate the power of shared cultural spaces to enrich our lives , develop our neighborhoods ,
foster community, and preserve our her itage.
PARTNERING WITH LOCAL CULTURAL LEADERS
The Welcome Center w ould collaborate with established No rth Beach-based arts nonprofits to
ensure diverse and impactful cultural offer ings:
Normandy Fountain Business Association
The Normandy Founta in Bus iness Association aims to promote and support
businesses in the Normandy Foundation area through arts programming . It
works to create a v ibrant and attractive en v ironment for businesses , visitors ,
and residents .
NORMANDY
DanceNow!
DanceNow! Miami is a dynam ic dance company based in North Beach since
2000. Reno w ned for its innovat ive approach and community engagement, the
company has been recognized as a lead ing force in South Florida's dance scene .
FUNDarte
eOUNTAIN BUSIN~SS
ASSOCIATION
FUNDarte is a North Beach-based cultural organ ization that promotes
artistic exp ress ions from Latin America , Spa in , the Caribbean , and beyond .
By presenting a variety of Spanish-language performances and events ,
FUNDarte aims to engage commun ities , nurture local talent, and foster
internationa l collaboration .
FUNDarte
Rhythm Foundation
Founded in 1988 in Miami Beach , Rhythm Foundat ion is a lead ing ltJU'iOr~, FOUNDATION
presenter of international mus ic in the US . Since 2015 , it has operated the
Miami Beach Bandshell on behalf of the City of Miami Beach .
FLEXIBLE, MULTI-USE SPACES
7605 Collins will conta in a Building Depa rtment field office , as well as a water testing facility
operated and maintained by Su rfrider Foundation. Here are some specific ideas for the rest of the
facility:
-Add a Welcome Cente r info r mation desk, whether it be in the ma in house or by enclosing
the porch . Th is manned-des k could be staffed by volunteers from the non-profits
benefiting from use of the space.
-Enclose part of the ground floor to create a shared conference room . Priority would be
given to the Building Department.
-Fill in the pool for liability concerns , and remove at least a portion of the security wall
surrounding the building to create greater connection with Altos Del Mar Park. The now
expanded "backyard " could become another public space to host receptions , small
performances, and perhaps even a cafe .
-Use the first floor for the Building Department. Convert the second floor into a shared
administrative workspace for the local nonprofits (think "WeWork" for the arts).
-Seek design solutions so that the first floor can convert into a program space after business
hours. For example, after 5 pm, the Building Dept. waiting room can flex into a space that
could host a talk on the history of MiMo architecture.
COMMUNITY-DRIVEN AND FUTURE-FOCUSED
By investing in the North Beach Welcome Center , we're investing in the neighborhood's future -a
future where arts , wellness , and environment come together to create a vibrant. healthy, and
thriving neighborhood.
Wednesday, Marc h 12, 2025 at 11 :21 :46 Eastern Daylight Time
Subject: Re: 7605 Collins Avenue Open House
Date : Friday, February 7, 2025 at 00 :31 :15 Eastern Standard Time
From: Maria Luisa Rauco
To: Kevin Pulido
CC : Antonio Lopez, Bob OB Bob Nanes, Frank Raposo , Ariel Yuneisy Miranda, Matthew Anderson , Caro li na Peraza , Ariel Blanco, Cary Lopez , Gil Rachlin, Bianca
Guevara. Leonor Hernandez, Arie l Yuneisy Miranda , Bianca Guevara, Leonor Hernandez
[ THIS MESSAGE COMES FROM A1'i EXTER"IAL E'\1AIL USE C Al TION WHEN REPLYING A "ID OPE..NI1'iG LI1'iKS OR
TT r Ml< T'-l
Kevin , the lady wearing blue is Maria Luisa Rouco (ML). It is I.
I was a little disappointed that City Officials had already a direction as to what to do with the property.
We fought long and hard in this nei ghborhood to not allow Betsy to sell to developers and destroy the fabric of the park by allocating the
type of occupancy that in some ways you now described.
Definitely "NO " to a satellite office for the Building Department , and or leased as a cafe or restaurant , as was mentioned. The "funds "
being from the Building Department as they were described , is not the case; the "funds " used for buying the property are "OUR HARD
EARNED TAX PAYERS MONEY ".
Thus , we the neighbors of Altos Del Mar, want the decision to come from us ; the ones who paid and are the ultimate users of this facility.
We are interested in the future of thi s area , and want this facility to be used to awaken and develop the environmental consciousness
required in our young to preserve the quality of life aspired by those that live in the surroundings of our beloved Altos Del M ar Park.
We will fight again and again, any type of occupancy th at is not advocated by our neighbors , and comes from the top down .
The idea floated by the Surfriders(?), seems to be more in line with the Altos Del Mar Committee, integrating the children in our
neighborhood to become stakeholders of our ocean and the wonderful creatures that thrive within thi s ecosystem .
Please know , we are here to volunteer our time to make the Altos Del Mar Community Center a success.
ML , Board member at OceanBlue Condominium
ava nt i@ be ll so uth .ne t ,
305-5735505
Sent from my iPhone
On Feb 6 , 2025 , at 9: 15PM, Pulido , Ke vi n <Kev inPuli do @ m iami beac hfl .gov> wrote :
Pleasure to connect with you today. I apologize if we got disconnected during the rush. If you may please ha ve the neighbor who
came share her (she was wearing blue) comments so I can share with staff.
Pl ease do not hesitate to rear.h out if you ha ve any additional questions.
<image00 I .pn g>
Kevin Pulido , Neighborhood Affairs Divis ion Director
OFFICE OF MARKETI NG & COMMUNICATIONS
1700 Convention Center Drive , Miam i Bea ch, FL 33139
Tel : 786 .394.4 033 I www.m1am1beachfl.gov/NAD
We are committed to providin g excef/ent public service and safery to all who live , work and pfay in our vibrant, tropical, historic communiry.
From: Antonio Lopez <arloP-ez2 @msn .com >
Date: Thursday, February 6 , 2025 at 14:14
To: Kevin Pulido <KevinPulido @miamibeachfl.gov>
Cc: Bob OB Bob Nanes <bobnanes @gmail.com>, Frank Raposo <frankfraP-oso @ao l.com>, Ariel & Yuneisy
Miranda <Y.Uneisymiranda @hotmai l.com >, Maria Luisa Rauco <avanti @bellsouth .net>, Matthew Anderson
<aerochoice @gmail.com>, Carolina Peraza <mCP-e raza @bellsouth .ne1>, Ariel Blanco <ariel b m @yahoo .com >,
Cary Lopez <l&IY.el@ ms n.com >, Gil Rachlin <gi lrachlin @gmail.com >, "Guevara , Bianca "
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List of Ideas for Proposed Uses of 7605 Collins Avenue -Ashley Moline 305-890-0557
• Integrate with North Shore Branch Library, could use rejuvenation (compare to
South Beach Library and North Beach very much needs it own library)
• Relocate parks department offices that are currently in trailers on 79th street at
the entrance of North Shore Open Space Park
• Relocate Miami Beach Lifeguard Headquarters that is currently in trailers West of
Collins Ave between 79th & 80th Street "West Lots " (7940 Collins Ave , Miami
Beach, FL 33141). They currently have to drive their ATV's through 79th Street
and have to Collins Ave twice a day
• Headquarters for Sea Turtle Conservation and/or Marine-Aquatic Ocean /
Environmental Science Education Center with events, presentations, etc.
utilizing / integrating with the adjacent park
• Contact Environmental Organizations
• Educational facilities such as institutions / universities ' Marine Studies
departments (MAST academy, UM , FIU)
• "Turtle Bill " connections , Jim Hoover, Bill Aher, and more!
• Pelican Harbor Seabird Station
• Turtle Fest Event -Organizers & Participants (Booths)
• Haulover Park , Key Biscayne
• Water testing facility for reporting current beach conditions / water quality for
swimming https://www.theswimguide .org/
• Surfrider
• Lifeguards / Ocean Rescue / coast guards offices /facilities (meeting rooms ,
break rooms , etc .)
https://www.miamibeachfl .gov/city-hall/fire/ocean-rescue/currentbeachconditions/
• Art classes , ceramics with oven , drawing, painting
• Information & Welcome Center for Miami Beach visitors
Wednesday, March 12, 2025 at 11 :19:13 Eastern Daylight Time
Subject: 7605 Collins Ave
Date: Sunday, Feb ruary 9, 2025 at 14:38 :23 Eastern Standard Time
From: Nina Schumann
To: kevinpulido@miamibeachfl.gov
I You don't often get email from nina schumann@yahoo.com . Learn why this is imRortant
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Dear Kevin:
I live at LaGorce Palace 6301 Collins Ave. I took a walk through the property at 7605 Collins
Ave. last week. I understand the property was purchased in April 2024 for $6 .5 million. It 's
market value today is considerably less according to some real estate websites (as low as
$4,500,000).
I got a little information from people who were at the open house, But I would appreciate if you
could direct me to the information concerning how the Bu ilding department and/or the city came
to be in possession of this property.
Someone said that the Building department has to occupy 51 % of the building according to
whatever deal was made . Something doesn't sound right! But I'm sure there 's a paper trail
and even if you can 't provide it, I should be able to find it.
One of the city staff at the open house said that the Building department is thinking of moving a
call center and offices from their location on Normandy Isle to the house at 7605 Collins Ave . I
cannot imagine a more inappropriate setting for the Building department, and that seemed to be
the sentiment of most people who attended the open house.
Even if a deal was made that would require the Building department occupied 51 % of the
property I'm sure that can be undone. And I think there Are easily several locations in the city of
Miami Beach that would be more appropriate for the Building department offices. The Byron
Carlyle proposals included expansion upward to build workforce housing. Very suitable location
for a call center and the Building department and there will be parking available. Call centers are
rapidly being automated with AI so personnel numbers will diminish .
The house at 7605 Collins is prime real estate! In my opinion, it should be sold to the highest
bidder. If not, the building should be used for the community.
It would make a lovely community cultural center, providing outreach and education, as well as a
social networking hub for the residents of North Beach . While we have Unidad , that facility
caters mostly to the Hispanic community and low income residents with free meals and free
outings. Unidad is not very welcoming to non-Hispanic people. It is not open at night or on the
weekends. I've tried to address these issues with the Unidad staff but they act powerless to effect
any change .
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I envision a community cultural center that would showcase local artists, local Musicians , local
chefs, entrepreneurs and speakers, with a rotating Residency for area nonprofits and
environmental initiatives . A community center would foster cultural, educational, and social
programs, for the benefit of our richly diverse north beach neighborhood. As a community center
for North Beach, small gatherings could be offered on weekends and evenings , with an emphasis
on building relationships, personal growth and healthy living. Do we aspire to be a Blue Zone
community? One of the most important factors in the longevity of blue zone residents is
"community", represented by the fact that people are connected socially, and not just for a free
lunch, but for meaningful exchange .
The building at 7605 Collins is the perfect size and location for a community cultural center!
Reasonable fees can be charged for classes and programs . The center would evolve as the
neighborhood does, reflecting the needs of the residents.
I would like to know more of the history behind this property! Thank you
Nina Schumann
Miami Beach
603 .502 .3983
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