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HomeMy WebLinkAboutLTC 135-2026 Beachfront Management Plan Ad Hoc Advisory Committee MotionDocus,gn Envelope ID 5EC 18DCB-0B90-4A27-A9B4-A8FA3A3BFFBC MIAMI BEACH LTC # LETTER TO COMMISSION TO: Honorable Mayor Steven Meiner and Members of the FROM r7 • . () <� Eric Carpenter, City Manager [,JZ,{,£-L,a.t DATE SUBJECT· March 31, 2026 Beachfront Management Plan Ad Hoc Advisory Committee Motion The purpose of this Letter to Commission (L TC) is to inform the Mayor and City Commission of a motion passed by the Beachfront Management Plan Ad Hoc Advisory Committee at its March 10, 2026, meeting and public hearing. At the meeting, the Beachfront Management Plan Ad Hoc Advisory Committee approved the following motion: "Transmit all recommendations discussed during the meeting, as reflected in the minutes, to the City Commission." Motion made by: Commissioner Alex J. Fernandez Motion seconded by: Lissette Garcia-Arrogante Motion Passed: 10-0 (In-Person) Members present: Amy Knowles, Chair; Susan Askew, Vice-Chair; Commissioner Alex J. Fernandez; Samantha Baysinge: Janet Bowman (virtual); Christopher Bumpus; Jason Casanova; Ana Carolina Coelho Maran; Michelle Danielson: Lissette Garcfa-Arrogante; David Kieckbusch (virtual); Elizabeth Miro. Members absent: Rashid lstambouli The meeting minutes, inclusive of recommendations discussed, are provided as Attachment A. In addition, the written public comments are provided as Attachment B The draft Beachfront Management Plan can be accessed by selecting www.miamibeachfl.gov/beachfront Attachment A: Meeting Minutes Attachment B: Written Public Comments }1\�G{f MH/AK/L:P 135-2026 -----J.i~ Commiss io n ~ V\ AMI BEACH RISING ABOVE Attachment A: Meeting Minutes Beachfront Management Plan Ad Hoc Advisory Committee Committee Members Amy Knowles, Chair Susan Askew , Vice-Cha ir Commissioner Alex J. Fernandez Samantha Baysinger Janet Bowman Christopher Bumpus Jason Casanova Ana Carolina Coelho Maran Michelle Danielson Lissette Garcia-Arrogante Rash id lstambouli Dav id Kieckbusch El izabeth M iro TO: Members of the Beachfront Management Plan Ad Hoc Advisory Committee DATE: March 10, 2026 SUBJECT: Minutes of the Beachfront Management Plan Ad Hoc Advisory Committee on March 10, 2026, Meeting Present : Amy Knowles -Chair, Susan Askew-Vice-Chair, Commissioner Alex J. Fernandez, Samantha Baysinger, Janet Bowman (virtual), Christopher Bumpus, Jason Casanova, Ana Carolina Coelho Maran, Michelle Danielson, Lissette Garda-Arrogante, David Kieckbusch (virtual), Elizabeth Miro Absent : Rashid lstambouli City Staff : Lindsey Precht, Liaison Justin Alexander, Sydney Alonso, Sabrina Batl le, Alexandra Betancourt (virtual), Ric Dopico (virtual), Julien Desrois, Maria Hernandez, Nick Kallergis, Rolando Martinez, Sarah Ortiz (virtual), Sophie Ramos (virtual), Gabriella Ramos (virtual), John Rebar (virtual), Alberto Rosales , Mark Taxis Members of the Public: In person : Irene Bigger, Steve Boucher, Andrea Figura , Elizabeth Latone , Diana Ullmann Virtual: Carolann Alt, Avra Bank, Screen name: Cindy, Magie Dominguez, Dave Doebler, Patrick Fernandes, Screen name : JR, Jane Krupp, Kimberly Koury, Lisa Louis e, Eugene Karl Montoya, Johann Moore, Susan Morris, Carlos Peraza, Ivan Picc, Kevin Roque, Screenname: SRB, Mae Soriano, Ingrid Spielman, Oscar Vazquez CALL TO ORDER/ROLL CALL L. Precht called the meeting to order, provided an overview of the agenda, and invite d committee members to introduce themselves. 1 M"AMI BEACH RISING ABOVE COMMITTEE BUSINESS Attachment A: Meeting Minutes Beachfront Management Plan Ad Hoc Advisory Committee Committee Members Amy Knowles , Chair Susan A skew , Vice-C ha ir C ommissioner Al ex J. Fernandez Samantha Baysi n ger Jan et Bowman Christopher Bum p us Jason C asanova Ana C arol i na C oel ho Maran Michel le Danielson Lissette G arcia-A rro g an te Rash id lstamboul i David Kieckbusch El iza b eth M iro Selection of Chair/Vice-Chair Commissioner A. Fernandez made a motion to nominate A. Knowles to be Cha ir. S. Baysinger seconded the motion . Comm issioner A. Fernandez nom inated S. Askew to be V ice-Cha ir. J. Casanova seconded the motion. PUBLIC COMMENT L. Precht then opened the fl oor to Public Comment. I. Bigger introduced he rse lf and provided comments as Pres ident of the Art Deco Neighborhood Associat ion . She stated that the Assoc iat ion has long advocated for reduc ing special events . I. Bigger n oted that she had submitted a letter to City Manager E. Carpenter and the City Commission summarizing a meeting w ith L. Garcfa-A rrogante and E. Carpenter . She expressed concern that the influx of spec ial events negatively affects residen t s, vis itors , city services , and the coastal environment . She added that the Association recommends reducing the number of events and spacing them further apart. She highlighted concerns regarding fee waivers and City sponsorship for commercial events, urging the City to discontinue both due to their unintended impacts. Comm issioner A . Fernandez noted for the record that fee waivers can at times generate a return on investment. Commissione r A . Ferna ndez added that the City has worked collabo ratively w ith res idents to support the street and surround ing areas and has made efforts to sh ift many events south to protect resident ial portions of Ocean Dr ive . J. Moore expressed app reciat ion for the leve l of public engagement surro u nding the Comm ittee's upcom ing meet ing . He urged a holistic approach to dunes, beach, and reef health . Also , encouraging the pursuit of new funding sources for beach renourishment, as some areas of the beach are narrow. J. Moore recommended exploring creative strategies to support reef health and advised caution regarding any pruning on or near the dunes, stating it should not be done for cosmetic reasons or to preserve views. Finally, he urged support for funding robust native plant restoration throughout the dunes . 2 MAMI BEACH RISING ABOVE Attachment A: Meeting Minutes Beachfront Management Plan Ad Hoc Advisory Committee Committee Members Amy Knowles, Chair Susan Askew , Vice-C ha ir Commissioner Al ex J. Fernandez Samantha Ba ysinger Jan e t Bowman Christopher Bumpus Jason Casanova Ana Carolina Coelho Maran Michelle Dan ielson Lissette G arcia-Arrogante Rashid lstambouli David Kieckbusch Elizabeth Miro E. Latone introduced herself and prov ided comments as President of the Allison Park Neighborhood Assoc iat ion as we ll as a membe r of the Cit y's Pla nni ng Board . She stated thatthe plan does not document or evaluate whether existing concession agreements are consistent with stewardship standards and public trust obligations. She indicated that this absence is notable given the scale and concentration of commercial activity currently occurring on the public beachfront. She emphas ized that state-owned lands are intended fo r p u bl ic use , not commercializat ion . 0 . Vazquez , represent ing the Mid -Beach Ne ig h bo rhood Assoc iat ion (MBNA) Execut ive Committee and serv ing as Cha ir of the Beach and Wate r Qual ity Wo r kin g Group , thanked the City, County, and State for the ir work on the Beachfront Management Pla n. He acknow ledged meaningful progress si nce the p lan 's last rev ision . 0 . Vazquez stated that MBNA's central concern is the draft plan's lack of long-term vision, especially regarding environmental issues . He emphasized that the plan often describes current conditions but does not sufficiently explain how the City intends to respond if these pressures worsen . He h ighl ighted sa rgassum as MBNA 's prim ary concern , not ing that influxes ca n quick ly make the beach unusable and have signific ant impacts du ri ng peak summe r months when tourism is highest. He also refe re n ced concerns abo ut co n d it io ns in th e b reakwaters along the M id-Beach area . He concluded by summarizing that MBNA seeks a stronger long-term outlook in the plan, particularly regarding sargassum management. Based on the Association 's work with the County, he emphasized the importance of planning proactively for extreme conditions and ensuring the Beachfront Management Plan articulates how the City will address these challenges in the years ahead . Comm iss ioner A . Fe rn an de z acknow ledged t he presence of S. Bo ucher, one of the City's beach co n cess iona ires w ho collabo rates w it h nu mero us bea ch front propert ies . D. Doebler, Chair of the Ad Hoc Sanitation Committee and former Chair of both the Sustainability Committee and the Marine and Waterfront Protection Authority, emphasized the need to priorit ize waste reduction and diversion in daily operations and special events . D. Doebler stated that he submitted comments recommending expansion of the beach recycling program, which currently operates from Government Cut to 15th Street, to additional areas further north . He also referenced comments regarding special events, including renaming the sanitation plan to a "Waste Reduction, Diversion, and Sanitation Plan" and establishing expectations for recycling beverage containers and construction debris. He st ated t hat he d id n ot see some of h is submitted comments in the p u b li c co mment packet and soug ht cla rifi cat io n . D. Doe bl e r tha nk ed part icipants and re ite rat ed t h e importance of reduc ing the 4 m il lio n pou n ds o f d e b ri s co ll e cted an nual ly from the City 's beaches . 3 V\ AM BEACH RISING ABOVE Attachment A : Meeting Minutes Beachfront Management Plan Ad Hoc Advisory Committee Committee Members Amy Knowles, C hair Susan A skew , Vice-C hair C omm issioner A lex J. Fernandez Samantha Baysing e r Jan et Bowm a n C hristoph e r Bum p us Jason C asanova Ana C arolina C oelho Maran Michel le Danielson Lissette G arcia -A rrogante Rashid lstambouli David Kieckbusch Elizabeth Miro A. Knowles clar ified that no public comments had been removed and st ated that staff would confirm all publ ic comments were ava il able onl i ne . L. Precht asked whether anyone else attending in person or virtually w ish ed to provide comments. Hearing no responses , she proceeded to the next agenda item . REVIEW OF THE BEACH FRONT MANAGEMENT PLAN COMPONENTS L. Precht then rev iewed the Beachfront Management Plan components . She high lighted that the plan out li nes how the City and County manage the beachfront. He r overview touched on recent accompl ishments, management activit ies , and exhib its of the p lan . SELECTION OF DISCUSSION ITEMS A. Knowles thanked L. Precht and explained that, given the volume of i nfo r mation , it would be helpful for the Committee to identify specific d iscuss ion items. Knowles refe renced severa l topics she had heard raised by membe rs includ ing beaches and dunes, concess iona ire agreements , and special events and invited the group to ident ify any additiona l areas they w ish ed to d iscuss befo re ass igning time for each . Comm iss ioner A. Fernandez thanked the members of the pub li c for the i r part icipation and the organized neighborhood associations for t he i r submitted comments . He ide nt ified sargassum management as a frequent concern , including cleanup freq uency , seasonal th resho lds , and the need for more intensive efforts du ri ng peak months . He also refe renced public comments regard ing beach renourishment, concession operations, and veh icle enforcement. Comm iss ioner A. Fernandez noted add it ional issues ra ised by the community, includ i ng rev iew ing the packed sand area used as overflow for the Beachwalk, concerns regarding the performance of the b reakwater and its influence on sargassum and sand movement, and requests to extend beach recycling cans north of 15th Street . He stated that t hese ite ms reflected the priorities most cons istently identified in publ ic comments . A . Knowles asked whethe r any othe r Comm ittee members wish to propose add itiona l top ics for considerat ion. 4 V\ AMI BEACH RISING ABOVE Attachment A: Meeting Minutes Beachfront Management Plan Ad Hoc Advisory Committee Committee Members A my Knowles, C hair Susan A skew, Vi c e-C hair C o m m issi o n e r A lex J. Fe rnan d ez Sama ntha Ba y sin g er Ja n et Bowma n C hristoph e r Bump us Jaso n C asa n ova An a C aro lina C o el h o M aran M ichell e D a n ielson Lissette G arcia-Arr o ga nte Rash id lsta m boul i Dav id Ki e ckbusch El izabeth M iro S. Baysinger noted that The Nature Conservancy referenced potential future needs for beach renourishment, including estimates re lated to amount of material, landscaping , and associated funding. She suggested that these long-term renourishment needs be included . COMMITTEE DISCUSSION Sargassum A. Knowles suggested beginning the discussion w ith the topic of sargassum . She recognized C. Bumpus from M iam i-Dade County, who oversees the County 's sargassum management contract, and inv ited h i m to describe the current approach and what may be anticipated over the next ten years. C. Bumpus provided an overv iew of M iam i -Dade County 's current sargassum management approach . He expla ined that the County operates under a perm it issued by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection ( FDEP) and Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commiss ion ( FWC), which designates specific locat ions where removal of sargassum is allowed . Within M iami Beach, these permitted areas include Government Cut and the segment from 22 nd to 32 n d Streets. In these zones, the County 'svendorconducts daily remova l during sargassum season and operates four days per week in the off -season, also performing sand sifting and other ma intenance . He noted that heavy equ ipment can only operate until 30 minutes befo re sunset, pe r perm it requ irements . He added that outside of the des ignated removal zones , the County 's internal beach operations team manages sargassum us i ng an integration method that blends the material into the sand, and th is work occurs year-round . He explained that the County aims to work as close to low tide as poss ible to max im ize efficiency , but publ ic safety takes priority, and operations are adjusted when beaches are populated . A . Know les noted that the Env ironment and Sustainab ility team has engaged w ith the County's Innovation Authority, which is support ing severa l companies exp lo r ing potential sustainable uses fo r sargassu m . She added that the City is await i ng first -year results from th is effort and is also coord i nat ing w ith the University of M iam i as part of a tech ni ca l group study ing potentia l hea lth impacts and beneficial uses of sargassum . She stated that these ongoing efforts could be reflected in the Beachfront Management Plan. Commissioner A. Fernandez asked whether the plan could address enhanced sargassum mitigation during periods of higher accumulation. He suggested exploring if additional collections could be implemented during peak influxes, with coordinated safety assistance from City staff. He noted that 5 N' AMI BEACH RISING ABOVE Attachment A: Meeting Minutes Beachfront Management Plan Ad Hoc Advisory Committee Committee Members Amy Knowles, Chair Susan As kew, Vice-Chair Commissioner A lex J. Fe rnandez Samantha Ba ysinger Janet Bo wman Christopher Bump us Jason Casa nova Ana Carolina Coel ho Maran Michelle Danielson Lisset te G arcia-A rrogante Ras hid lstambouli Dav id Kieckbusch El izabeth Miro leaving sargassum on the beach during heavier periods negatively affects residents, visitors, and businesses . Commissioner A. Fernandez asked which venue would be appropriate forfurtherd iscussion of enhanced sargassum cleanup during peak accumulation periods . The Committee discussed how potential changes to sargassum operations could be addressed within the plan . Staff expla i ned that the plan reflects current practices and that any operational changes, such as modifying the Beach Raker contract would require coord ination with Miami-Dade County and likely direction from the City Commission. They noted that amendments to the contract would involve a procurement process and may also require approval by the Board o f County Commissioners . Proposed changes would not be formally incorporated until implemented.Accordingly, any such adjustments could be forwarded as recommendations from the Comm ittee to the City Commission . Some members of the Committee agreed these changes could be reflected in the plan as future interests or goals. The Committee discussed how sargassum is managed in areas with little or no beach width. It was noted that in these locations sargassum is handled by the County's internal beach operations team using the State-approved integration method . Staff explained that State and federal regulations prohibit placing barriers in the water or conducting in-water removal due to potential impacts on sea turtle nesting and is not currently permitted. It was further noted that in 2023 , the City convened meetings with the City Manager, professional staff, and all relevant agenc ies to explore possible in-water solutions, but no approach acceptable under Federal or State enviro n mental regulations was identified . A. Knowles then invited J . Bowman of The Nature Conservancy to provide comments . J. Bowman suggested that the plan includes language noting that sargassum cleanup requires temporary closure of portions of the beach. She stated that the plan should acknowledge how these closures affect public access and clarify the extent to which cleanup activities can limit beach use. S. Baysinger suggested that the plan includes additional public education on sargassum, noting that many residents and visitors are not aware of the ecological benefits of leaving some material on the beach. She recommended adding information on the role sargassum can play in promoting sand accumulation and supporting beach health. 6 N' AM BEACH RISING ABOVE Attachment A: Meeting Minutes Beachfront Management Plan Ad Hoc Advisory Committee Committee Members Amy Knowles, Chair Susan A skew, Vice-Chair C ommissioner A lex J. Fe rnandez Samantha Baysinger Janet Bo wman Christopher Bumpus Jason Casanova Ana Carolina Coelho Maran Michelle Danielson Lisse tte Garcia-Arrogante Rashid lstambouli Da vid Kieckbusch El izabeth Miro Several Committee members expressed support for enhanced public education on sargassum, suggesting the use of newsletters and existing County resources to help residents and visitors better understand management practices and environmental considerations . Commissioner A. Fernandez stated that the environmental benefits of sargassum are disconnected from the da il y impacts experienced by residents and businesses. Including odor, quality of life , and negative effects on hotels and beach-related commerce. He then recognized S. Boucher to describe the operational impacts during high sargassum periods. S. Boucher stated that du ring peak sargassum periods, many visitors and residents are often disappointed. He noted that sa rgassum presents a significant issue during these times but commended the County for its efforts . Commissioner A. Fernandez suggested that the Beachfront Management Plan includes a goal of addressing shoreline accumulation more proactively during surge periods so that sargassum does not remain on the beach throughout the day . Beach Renourishment A. Knowles concluded the discussion on sargassum and opened the floor for comments on beach renourishment and noted that County beach renourishment staff were not in attendance and asked L Precht to provide an overview. L. Precht provided background explain ing that Miami-Dade County conducts shoreline surveys to identify erosion and accret ion areas and transm its this inform at ion to the U.S . Army Co r ps of Engineers (USACE). She noted that the USA CE has authorized a SO-year federal beach renourishmentframework for Miami Beach, focusing on four federally recognized erosion hotspots. She added that future renourishment w ill rely on offshore sand sources due to limited domestic supply and federal requirements prohib iting the use of imported sand . A. Knowles noted that based on resident concerns and observed conditions, re nourishment should remain a high p ri ority for the County, and she expressed concern that limited federal funding poses challenges for coastal communities statewide . J. Bowman stated that beach re nourishment remains a significant long-term challenge and suggested that the Beachfront Management Plan includes general estimates from the USACE SO-year framework to illustrate the magnitude of sand needed. She recommended incorporating qualitative statements 7 MAMI BEACH RISING ABOVE Attachment A: Meeting Minutes Beachfront Management Plan Ad Hoc Advisory Committee Committee Members Amy Knowles, Choir Susan Askew , Vice-Choir C ommissioner A lex J. Fe rnandez Samantha Baysinger Janet Bowman Christopher Bumpus Jason C asanova Ano Carolina C o el ho Moron M ichell e Danielson Lissette G ordo-Arrogonte Rashid lstombouli David Kieckbusch Elizabeth Miro about the frequency of past re nourishment efforts and the likelihood that future needs will be equal or greater. J. Bowman also noted the importance of acknowledging the substantial funding challenges at the federal and state levels. A. Knowles inv ited the pub lic to make add itiona l comments . E. Latone exp ressed conce rn about e ros ion in the North Beach area , not ing frequent flooding . She suggested exploring structural solutions, such as a jetty or similar shoreline features and emphasized the community's growing urgency. Commissioner A. Fernandez noted that beach re nourishment has significant fiscal implications and suggested that, based on recent patterns and expert input, the City may need to consider more frequent re nourishment within the 10-year planning period. He stated that even if the plan cannot mandate such actions, it should acknowledge the need to evaluate more recurring renourishment strategies. Concessionaire Agreements A . Know les concluded the d iscuss ion on beach re nourishment and opened the fl oo r for comments on concessiona i re ag r eements . Comm iss io ner A . Fernandez recognized t h e Allison Pa r k Ne ighborhood Association . E. Latone exp r essed conce rn abou t the extent of commercial izat ion along t h e beac hfront and questioned whethe r current concession opera tions li m it publ ic access . She raised issues regard ing the a ve rail ba lance between private operat ions and adequate space for t h e pub li c. She stated that the City shou ld eval u ate how concession act iv it ies affect that access . Commiss ione r A . Fernandez ack now ledged t he need to ba lance pub li c access wit h effect ive beach management, n ot ing tha t t h e City's h igh ly regarded beachfront depends on we ll -o rgan ized concession ope r at ions . He expressed co nce rn that large numbe r s of cha irs create areas that appea r inaccess ible to t he pub li c, even when ma ny cha irs rema in un used . He quest ioned whethe r the Beach front Management Plan could add ress co ncess ion layo ut management so that res idents and v isitors are not discouraged from us ing publ ic beach areas . He then i nvited S. Boucher to respond to t hese concerns . 8 MIAM BEACH RISING ABOVE Attachment A: Meeting Minutes Beachfront Management Plan Ad Hoc Advisory Committee Committee Members Amy Knowles , Cha ir Susan A skew, Vice-Cha ir C ommissioner Alex J. Fernandez Samantha Baysinger Janet Bowman Christopher Bumpus Jason Casano va Ana Carol ina Coelho Maran Michelle Danielson Lissette Garda-Arr ogante Rash id lstambouli David Kieckbusch Elizabeth Miro S. Boucher explained that concess ion operations follow a defined "workable area " agreed upon w ith the City, lim iting setup to designated zones. He noted that chairs are on ly placed based on anticipated da il y demand , verified each morning after M iam i-Dade County's sea turtle inspection. He added that the company adjusts chair quant ities throughout the day based on weather and usage and no longer utilizes the full beachfront area historically ava il ab le . Commissioner A. Fernandez stated that concession areas should be set up more minimally in the morning and expanded only as demand increases , noting that large empty chai r setups create the perception that portions of the beach are unavailable to the public . He emphasized that most res idents and visitors are not fam ili ar with the concessiona ire agreement or the ab ili ty to request removal of unused chairs . A. Knowles acknowledged the concern and recognized E. Miro to expla in how the concess ion agreement governs set -u p areas and how enforcement is handled . E. Miro clarified that all concess iona ir es must comp ly with rules and regulations. She noted that concessionaires are required to place only the number of chairs necessary to meet anticipated demand . M iro stated that a City beach monitor ensu r es compliance and that violat ions are subject to penalties . The Comm ittee and members of the publ ic continued discussing these issues, sharing addit ional perspectives on concession operat ions , publ ic access , and overall beach management. Commissioner A. Fernandez suggested establishing a formula or limit on the number of empty beach chairs allowed to be set out at one time, noting that large unused setups can give the impression that public beach space is unavailable. D. Ullmann asked to be recognized and stated that a variety of structures and stacked equipment remain on the beach at all hours, creating a clu ttered layout that is d ifficult to navigate . She observed that concession setups often extend across large areas and that chair quantities appear to exceed actual use , based on w hat she sees near her residence. D. Ullmann emphasized that organizing equipment in a more orderly and limited manner would improve public access and comfort. Commissioner A. Fernandez recommended exploring a more objective system for organizing concession equipment, suggesting that chair quantities and hut placement be tied to the actual frontage and available square footage behind each property. He proposed establishing clearer pathways and limiting 9 \A A J\ BEACH RISING ABOVE Attachment A: Meeting Minutes Beachfront Management Plan Ad Hoc Advisory Committee Committee Members Amy Knowles , Cha ir Susan Askew , Vice-Chair Co mmissioner Al ex J. Fe rnandez Samantha Ba ysinger Janet Bowman Chris topher Bumpus Jason C asanova Ana Carolina Coelho Maran Michelle Danielson Lisset te G arcia-Arrogante Ras hi d lstamboul i Da vid Kieckbusc h El izabeth Miro the number of empty chairs set out in advance so that public space remains visibly accessible and the beach is easier to navigate. Committee members and members of the public continued discussing the elements of the concess ion agreement, current requirements , and existing benefits for residents, including complimentary chairs for seniors and a 35% discount available to Miami Beach residents . The group agreed that these benefits should be more clearly highlighted and that the plan should emphasize achieving a better balance between concession operations and maintaining open, accessible beach space for the public in the future. Special Events A. Knowles concluded the discussion on concessiona ire agreements and opened the floor for comments on special events. S. Askew expressed concern about beach access issues experienced during a past special event, noting that fenced-off areas created choke points that led some attendees to cross over the dunes . She asked how future events could be managed to prevent similar situations and protect the dunes from damage . A . Knowles and L. Garcia-Arrogante responded that the City has already taken steps to p revent dune impacts during large events. They explained that, following the incident referenced by S. Askew , staff coordinated w it h Police and event organ izers to implement additional precautions, including placing security personnel at all beach access points on both sides of the dunes and ensurin g fence lines extended fully to controlled entry areas . They emphasized that protecting dunes is a priority forthe Environment and Sustainab ili ty Department and noted that, although the dunes cannot be fully fenced due to the ir natural and protected status , enhanced security measures will cont inue to be implemented for large -scale events to prevent similar occurrences in the future . S. Baysinger suggested incorporating additional public-facing environmental education into large special events, noting that visitors may not recognize the ecological importance of the dunes and other natural areas. She recommended using high-attendance events as opportunities to provide clearer educational messaging to help promote conservation awareness among both residents and non-local attendees. 10 MAM BEACH RISING ABOVE Attachment A: Meeting Minutes Beachfront Management Plan Ad Hoc Advisory Committee Committee Members Amy Knowles, Chair Susan A skew, Vice-Chair Commissioner Alex J. Fernandez Samantha Bays inger Janet Bowman Christo pher Bumpus Jason Casanova Ana Carolina Coelho Maran Michelle Danielson Lissette Garcia-Arrogante Ras hi d ls tambouli Dav id Kieckbusch El iz abeth Miro A. Knowles explained that, wh ile Miam i Beach already provides dune-related signage and outreach , staff is exploring ways to require or encourage event promoters to highlight the sensitive nature of the beach-dune ecosystem in the ir promotional materials and messaging . Vehicle Enforcement A. Knowles concluded the discuss ion on special events and opened the floor for comments on vehicle enforcement . Commissioner A. Fernandez noted that vehicle activity on the beach is another concern raised by residents and suggested establishing a cap on the number of non-public-safety vehicles allowed on the sand. He recommended exploring a decal or authorization system to better regulate access for sanitation, public works, and other operational vehicles, emphasizing the need to ensure safety and reduce unnecessary traffic along the beachfront. L. G arcfa-Arrogante noted that all concessionaires are required to reg ister any ve hides operating on the beach and are issued decals for identification. She added thatthe City has already implemented additional restrictions and is propos in g furthe r measures in the upcoming seventh amendment to the rules , which may include requiring concessionaires to install te lemetry systems so that vehicle locations and speeds can be monitored for improved oversight . J. Casanova suggested implementing Automatic Vehicle Location (AVL) technology for beach vehicles, to better monitor speeds and identify operators when complaints are received. He noted that unclear markings or decals make it difficultto determine which vehicles are involved in speed-related incidents and emphasized the need for enforceable speed limits for non-emergency vehicles. Comm ittee members cont inued discussing current vehicle restricti o ns on the beach , including overs ight practices, decal requirements, and enforcement cha llenges . Following this discussion , members agreed that the Beachfront Management Plan should include goals to strengthen safety measures related to vehicle access and operation on the sand. Commissioner A. Fernandez noted o ngoing concerns about City vehic les using the Beachwa lk, wh ich is already over capacity and heav i ly used by pedestrians and cyclists . He observed that various departments, including Public Works appear to use the Beachwalkforconven ience or travel between locations, creating saf ety issues. He suggested establishing stricter guidelines for which vehicles are permitted on the 11 MIAM BEACH RISING ABOVE Attachment A: Meeting Minutes Beachfront Management Plan Ad Hoc Advisory Committee Committee Members A m y Kn o w les, C h a ir Sus a n As k ew, Vice-C h a ir C o m m issi oner Alex J. Fe rnan dez Sama nth a Ba ysin ger Ja n et Bo wma n Christo p h er Bump us Jason C asanova A na C aro lina Coel ho M aran M ichell e Da ni elson Liss e tt e Garcia-A rro ga nte Ra shi d lstambou li D avid Kie ckbusch El izabeth Miro Beachwalk and recommended requiring smaller, safer vehicles for non-emergency operational use to minimize conflicts with the public. Litter and Recycling A . Knowles concluded the discuss ion on veh icle enforcement and opened the floor for comments on Litter and Recycling and recognized C. Bumpus to e laborate . C. Bumpus discussed current trash and recycling practices . It was noted that Miami-Dade County serv ices beach bins and makes multiple daily passes , and that recycling currently extends only from Government Cut to 15th Street. County staff indicated they are evaluating the possibility of adding recycling cans furthernorth. C. Bumpus expla ined that the County has increased b i n capacity in recent years to reduce overflow and is working to improve respons iveness by integrating Miam i Beach 's cleanliness index not ifications , allowing County teams to address high-accumulat ion areas more quickly. Packed Sand A. Knowles concluded the d iscussion on Li tter and Recycl i ng and opened the floor for comments on packed sand path per the request of Comm issioner A . Fernandez. Comm iss ioner A . Fernandez noted ongo ing congestion on the Beachwalk due to heavy use by pedest r ians, cyclists , and joggers, and stated that, under the Mayor's d irection , the City is exploring use of the hardpack east of the dunes as overflow during peak periods . A . Knowles and L. Precht expla i ned t hat the City conducted a feasibility analys is on expanding the hard pack area east of the du nes to relieve Beachwalk congestion . They noted that although the need is justified, regulatory challenges li mit the feas ib ili ty of creating additional hardpack . State agencies suggested that such a project cou ld require cons tructing an additional dune , wh ich may have negative effects on the shore line . L. Precht reported that they are continuing to evaluate alternatives , part icula r ly at constriction po ints along the Beachwalk, as d irected by the City Manager. Commissioner A. Fernandez suggested that the Beachfront Management Plan should recognize the City's efforts to explore hardpack or comparable alternatives as part of a broader pedestrian-safety strategy. 12 MIAMI BEACH RISING ABOVE Accessibility Attachment A: Meeting Minutes Beachfront Management Plan Ad Hoc Advisory Committee Committee Members Amy Knowles, Chair Susan As kew, Vice-Chair C ommissioner Alex J. Ferna ndez Samantha Baysinger Janet Bo wman Christopher Bumpus Jason Casanova Ana Carolina Coelho Maran Michelle Danielson Lissette Garcia-A rrogante Rashid lstambouli David Kieckbusch Elizabeth M iro A . Knowles conc lud ed the discussion on hard pack sand path and opened the floor for comments on accessibility per S. Askew's request. S. Askew asked whetherthe availab le beach-accessible wheelchairs are sufficient to meet current demand and whether add itional wheelchairs should be considered to improve accessibility . J . Casanova responded that additional accessible wheelchairs are needed, but storage lim itations at some facilities make expansion challenging . He added that identifying new storage options in the north end and securing ADA-related funding would be necessary to in crease the number of availab le chairs . L. Garda-Arrogante added that many attendees at special events prefer to use their own chairs for accessibility and comfort, and she shared this perspective based on public feedback. Commissioner A. Fernandez noted that Commissioner Dominguez has also been exploring ways to improve beach access i bility for seniors, including expanding the use of Mobi-Mats at select locations to help in d ividuals with mob ili ty challenges. A . Knowles concluded the discussion on accessib ili ty and thanked the Committee for its time and recommendations. She explained thatthe revised draft is expected to proceed to the City Commission in April and outlined the next steps in the process , includ i ng finalizing ed its , and preparing the plan for State submission . M. Danielson recommended adding time-based objectives to regarding dune initiatives such as targeting invasive species, suggesting that measurable targets would help assess progress and provide clearer benchmarks for the plan's outcomes. Commissioner A . Fernandez made a motio n to transmit all recommendations discussed during the meetin g, as reflected in the minutes, to the City Commission. Second by L. Garcfa-Arrogante . Passed unanimously. ADJOURNMENT A . Knowles adjourned the meeting. 13 2/912026 I Isabel feria 2/10120 26 I Je ssica Pi ta Margarita 2/26/2026 I Do m inguez Th e Art Deco Neighborhood 3/212 026 Assoc1at1on 319/2026 Sydney Cohen 3/10/2026 I Dave Doebler 3/10/2026 I Da ve Doebler 3/1012026 I Dave Doebler 3/10/2026 I Dave Doebler Co ncessions east of erosio n line Ok Ge neral Fee dback (P lease see link in co mm ents sec tio n for feedba c k and sugges tio ns) NO WATER PARK AT FONTAINB LEAU!!!! Need to add so mewhere 13C -The operation of all watersport activities (motorized and non-motori zed ) shall be conducted outside t he 300-foot restricted swi m area an d no c l oser than 400 feet of any lifeg uard stand. 1 3E • Th e wa l er c l1 anne l shall be marked by th e Concessionaire befor e wa tersporl s equipm ent 1s Attachment B: Written Public Comment Discuss t he amount of chairs and umbreUas se t out each morning and improve turtle nesting areas as well as aes t he t ic of th e beaches covered in chairs. During events 1n which the beach (east o f erosio n l ine) in ren ted o ut, more res pect to locals (people and w il dlife) 1s needed. Residents should be pe rm itted t o 'cut through' event spa ce to access th e beach, ra t her t11an be expected to walk blocks out of m e way to ge t to the beac h. S1gnage say ing, "thi s 1s their home : with im ages of fish. birds, turtles, crabs. etc. during suc h eve nts would be ve ry helpful to o -to se t t he intent of respec t ing and honorin g our be ac hes. Thank You I Jessica Beh in d our building on Collins and 64th th ere are consta nt activit,es by individuals installing big signs, lighting, moving sand around to conduct "Marry me" celebrations. Our concern is fo r th e dete ri oration of the beach inflicted by all these vendors without. we 're assuming permits from the city. Th e strong lighting equipment m ost of them use is also Affe cting th e turtle habitat wh ic h we try to protect by dimming lighting on our balcon ies. Please consider bringing a solution to these o ut of control profitable business l aking p_lace on ou r shores. https://drive.google.co ml f ile/d/1_HKOVkcOUG fl 5G73 ihQwR2o78 Mj K4 zxk/view?usp:driv esdk HANDS OFF MIAMI BEACH WHY WOULD ANYONE WANT TO INCREASE TRAFFIC ON AL READY INSANE CONDITI ONS?? Wt1 ere do we add EXPANS ION of RE CYCLIN G o n the sa nd by M1am1-Dade County Beach Opera ti ons? Recycling can s cu rr en tly run from Government Cut to 15th stree t, but we should be incrementally expanding North in high-traffic areas. Th e City is working to m ove t he swim line to accommodate swimmers and sno rkelers to t he reefline and na t ural reef. Is 300 feet fa r enough? used. I Marke rs sha ll not be mad e of ex po sed foam. They should be encapsula l ed in ha rd plastic . Page 130 -·sand Sifting Requireme nt's in Sanitation " Add -Events run by envi ronmental non-profits that incorporate a signi ficant Beach Cleanup (ie, World Ocean Day a nd Cu pid Splas h ) may have the post-even t ·sand Sifting· requirements waived by Ci ty Manager. 0 0 (") C (/) co· :::, m :::, < ct) 0 -0 ct) CJ (.11 m 0 ~ (Xl 0 0 ClJ b ClJ (!) 0 .J:. ~ --.J ► (!) ClJ .t, ► (Xl ,t ► w ► w ClJ ,t ,t ClJ 0 3/10/2026 I Dave Doebler 3/10/2026 I Dave Doebler 3/10/2026 Dave Doebler 3/10/2026 Dave Doebler 3/10/2026 Dave Doeb ler 3/10/2026 Dave Doebler 3/10/2026 Dave Doe bler 3/10/2026 Dave Doebler 3/1 0/2026 Dav e Doebler 3/11/2026 I Susan Morris Environment & Susla inability (Page 123) Environ ment & Sustainability (Page 123) Environment & Sus1aInability (Page 123) Environment & Sustainability (Page 123) Environment & Sus tainability (Page 123) Attachment B : Written Public Comment The following items are forbidd en at o ut d oo r specia l eve nts: Glitter, Co nfetti (except nee paper), fa ke flowe1 peta ls, balloo ns, pla stic bags, plast ic straws, __ " Provide easy and visible access to f ree wate1 refill stations (1 st ation for every 250 or 500 attendees) Storm dra in s and co nnection s t o open bodies of water sh all be prot ected <<, closed o ff and c leaned » it specia l eve nt Is discharging any m at eria l t hat m ay impact t he Biscayn e Bay (gl1 t1 er, disposable cups, confetti. «candy wrappers». et c.). Remove "The applicant Is encouraged lo use composting toilets and toilets lhal conserve waler." (There are no rentals available 101 this). Appli ca nt i s encourage d to otter at leas t 1 ve ge tarian / vegan opti on in the,r fo od op t ions "Bin designs should meet the re commended designs for permanent bins within the Part of the events Sani tation Plan recycling assessment including: spec ialized lids «with» clear and visible «"CANS and (Page 124) BOTTLES "» m ess aging on all recycling bins .· Pa11 of the eve nt s Sanitat ion Pl an I Plan should ment ion a requ1r ementto contr ac t wi l h a rec ycling wa steha uler for proper (Pa ge 124) I d ive rsio n to a MERF . Part of the events Sanitation Plan (Pa ge 124) !Landfill and Re cycli ng Dumpsters must be properly labeled . ------. -------·· . . ... --- Part of lhe eve n ts San itation Pl an I Re cyc ling W as l ehauler shall pmv1d e 'Proof' that the mat eria l Is delivered to a MERF (Pa ge 124) (recycling fa ci lity) via Tippin g Rec eipt. Section D: Natural Resources Pub lic Education and Signage: Increased signage in ALL areas undergoing dune resto ration would improve vi sib ility of restoration ettorts and help educate the public about the importance of dune systems and the need t o avoid disturbing resto ration areas. 0 0 Cl C (fl c.ci :::, m :::, < (1) 0 u (1) CJ u, m 0 ~ 00 0 0 OJ 6 OJ <D 0 1,.. ~ -..J )> <D OJ ~ )> 00 "Tl ► w ► w OJ "Tl "Tl OJ 0 Docusign Envelope ID : 5EC18DCB-0B90-4A27-A9B4-A8FA3A3BFFBC Attachment B: Written Public Comment :. -= -ART DECO NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOC IATION SPECIAL EVENTS POLICIES AND GUIDELINES REVIEW Ocean Drive , Lummus Park and Beachfront Uses from 5th to 15th Streets Purp ose of Discussion : To establish a clear, consistent framework for approving, manag ing , and evaluating Special Events, ensuring alignment with commun ity values , public safety, economic benefit , and preservation of Miami Beach 's heritage identity, particularly on Ocean Drive , Lummus Park and the Beach between 5th and 15th Streets. I. Geographic Framework: Event Boundaries and Event Location Parameters All Special Event permits on public property on Ocean Drive , the Beach , Lummus Park and swale areas between 5th and 15th Streets , should occur as follo ws : A . North of 11th Street: o No commercial large-scale activations above 11th Street except those promoting : -The Historic District -Ocean Drive Promenade Music Series -Film Production and Photography -Print & Digital Media & Marketing -Car and Fash ion shows -Parades reviewed by stakeholders in advance of perm itting -Non-profit community and educational events -Preservation of open views, the natural environment and greenspace 8 . Create an Ocean Drive Film and Production Zone 11th Street to 14th Place : o US film product ion is a $40 billion dollar market o Move all production bookings and event bookings for the Historic District to a new office run by a film production professional -Create a media campaign to hire th is production professional in LA and on social media whil e bringing attention to the ex istence of the new production zone o Create an oversight committee to screen events and film productions by stake-holders on Ocean Drive before permitting C . South of 11th Street : o Designated for larger, commercia l activations , limited to the Enterta inment and Cabaret overlay district -including all previously grandfathered Special Events Page 1 of 3 Docusign Envelope ID : 5EC18DCB-0B90 -4A27-A9B4-A8FA3A3BFFBC II . Even t Log istics and Infrastructure (5 th t o 15th Stree ts) A . Event Build-Out and Tear-Down Limits Attachment B: Written Public Comment o Maximum 15 day total (combined setup and breakdown) o Manage construction timing (allow extended work hours) -Hours compatible with Cabaret District's late ni ght hours B . Event Infrastructure Placement o No back-of-house infrastructure visible from Ocean Drive -Including staff vehicles , construction equipment, generators , dumpsters , storage trucks , containers and porta-potties -Beach access points should remain unobstructed C .Visual Integrity o Model site plans after "Untitled " bu ild -out during Art Basel with entrance facing the park and no back-of-house visible o Reduce perimeter plastic fencing , tenting and beachfront obstructions o No third-party advertising billboards or banners outside of the gated venue o No concessions or equ ipment on Lummus Park turf areas Ill. Event Sche dulin g & Pl acem ent Man agement A. Review the annual calendar and site plans for both grandfathered and current activations o Reduce congest ion scheduling during peak season o Re-position all large , commercial Special Events to below 11th Street and east of the dune , including , but not limited to : -SOBEWFF • Stakeholder review of new contract with SOBEWFF before city sign-off -South Beach Seafood Festival -Art Deco Weekend -ADTHX to Collins Park or be low 10th Street -Futureproof -Wodapaloosa -Discuss moving all Pride events to June Pride month to take advantage of globa l med ia focus during this month and util ize Pr ide Park as another venue • Urge Miami Festival Beach Party • Winter Party • Miami Beach Pride Festival B. Existing events above 11th Street to remain : o A ir & Sea Show o FIFA o Veteran 's Day Parade o Untitled and Scope o Turkey Trot o Runn ing Events o Miami Vice Reunions o Annual Holiday Fireworks o Ocean Drive Promenade Music Series , New Year 's Day Orchestra and Holiday Projections Page 2 of 3 Docusign Envelope ID: 5EC18DCB-0B90-4A27-A984-A8FA3A3BFFBC Attachment B: Written Public Comment IV. Event Approval Criteria A . Special Event Review Process before permits are issued : o No Impact fees waved o No City Sponsorsh ip for commercial events o Community feedback before permits are issued • The current Community Special Event Review monthly meetings are held after the perm its are issued and serve no value when the community has no in put o Transparency Requirements • Event organizers/promoters must present to the community : -Full site plans -Event schedules -Community benefit statements -Impact assessments -Contractua l agreements -Safety plans -Impact on environment -Safety measures (in scale with the event) -Better traffic management -Adequate parking ava il ability o Post-event reporting and community feedback • Impact on the community, quality of life and natural environment • Profit and Loss statement V. Resident and Visitor Experience A . Quality of Life concerns : o Community benefit versus disruption • Traffic • Noise Control -Stages and speakers to face East and /or South -Street No ise • Pollution from back of house activiti es • Lim it obstruction of ocean views • Limit restrictions to beach access • Improve temporary signage and pedestrian navigation • Improve lighting • Keep Lummus Park open greenspace for visitor relaxation Key Discussion Questions for the City Manager o Formalize a Heritage Zone north of 11th Street • Historic Signage • Banners on Collins Avenue and the 100 Blocks o Re-eva lu at ion of all Special Event fee waivers and City Sponsorships o Discuss current status of SOBEWFF Page 3 of 3 Docusign Envelope ID : 5EC18DCB-0B90-4A27-A9B4-A8FA3A3BFFBC Attachment B: Written Public Comment PUBLIC COMMENTS RECIEVED VIA EMAIL Docusign Envelope ID: 5EC18DCB-0B90-4A27-A9B4-A8FA3A3BFFBC Th ature N } Conse rva n y V March 6, 2026 Sabrina Batlle City of Miami Beach 1700 Convention Center Drive Miami Beach, FL 33139 Attachment 8: Written Public Comment Re: Comments on Miami Beach Beachfront Management Plan Draft Date 2/4/26 Dear Ms. Batlle: The purpose of this letter is to provide the comments of The Nature Conservancy in Florida on the Draft City of Miami Beach Beachfront Management Plan August 2026 , Draft Date 2/4/26. We find the draft plan comprehensive and meeting the requirements for land management plans set forth in chapter 259 and Chapter 18, Florida Administrative Code, but have several suggestions. • On page 1 of the Executive Summary, I suggest listing the date the last management plan was approved by ARC in the paragraph before the list of notable milestones since the last beachfront management plan and stating the new ten-year time frame of the Draft Beachfront Management Plan. • On pages 10 and 11, I suggest expanding the discussion of beach nourishment activities and costs. The draft discussion does a good job identifying the challenges of finding sand sources and erosion hot spots and discusses how these challenges have been addressed , however, it would be helpful to know the frequency and cost of Miami Beach renourishment over the past 10 years and a qualitative statement about the potential need for more frequent interventions during the new 10-year time frame of the draft management plan. • On pages 10 and 11, in the discussion of the USACE Final Integrated Feasibility Report and Environmental Assessment for the Miami-Dade County Coastal Storm Risk Management (CSRM) Project Main segment , it would be helpful to cite the estimates made in the Integrated Feasibility Report about the estimated amount of fill needed over the next 50 years and the associated cost in order to give the reader an idea of the potential cost of nourishment during the next 10 years. Similarly, if the construction of erosion control structures is anticipated during the next 10 years, I suggest listing the types of structures and potential associated costs with such structures during the life of the Beachfront Management Plan . • On page 14 related to Miami-Dade County Beach Operations, I suggest discussi ng the challenges and increased costs associated with the r emoval of sargassum from the beach and whether it is anticipated that the magnitude of the effort is expected to increase over the next 10 years. Docu sign Env el ope ID : 5EC1 8DCB-0 B90-4A2 7-A9B4-A8 FA3A3 BFFBC Attachment B: Written Public Comment • I applaud the focus on the continued restoration and enhancement of the dune system and the importance of managing the system pursuant to the C ity of Miami Beach Dune Management Plan . Thank you so much for this opportunity to provide comments on the Draft City of Miami Beach Beachfront Management Plan. Sincerely yours, ~fJt>~ Janet Bowman Senior Policy Advisor/Climate Policy The N ature Conservancy in Florida Docusign Envelope ID : 5EC 18DCB-0B90-4A27-A9B4-A8FA3A3BFFBC Attachment B : Written Public Comment Outlook Draft Bea chfront Management Plan -Stewardship Standa rds for Pub lic Beachfront Lan ds From Date Mon 3/9/2026 6:34 PM ( THIS MESSAGE COMES FROM AN EXTERNAL EMAIL -USE CAUTION WHEN REPLYING AND OPENING UNKS OR ATIACHMENTS 1 Dear Mayor, Commissioners , City Manager, Ad Hoc Advisory Group, and City Attorney, In our review of the Draft 2026 Beachfront Management Plan , several issues should be addressed. These lands are not ordinary municipal property; they are coastal public trust lands hel d for the benefit of the public and subject to heightened stewardship obligations under state law and the Miam i-Dade County Charter. Article X , Section 11 of the Florida Constitution establishes that sovereignty coastal lands are held by the State "in trust for all the people.• Section 253.034 , Florida Statutes, further requires that State lands be managed for *balanced public utilization ," and that revenue-generating activities remain subordinate to the protection of natural resources and publ ic access. As such, the City acts not simp ly as a land manager, but as a public trustee with an affirmative duty to ensure that commercial uses do not impair publi c access, ecological function , or long-term shoreline resi lience. A substantial portion of the Plan addresses concessions and programmed uses. However, the document does not evaluate whether ex isting concession agreements-including the recently approved concession agreement with Boucher Brothers---are consistent w ith the stewardsh ip standards and public-trust obligations referenced above. The absence of such an analysis is notable, particularty given the scale and concentration of commercial activity currently occurring (or will occur) on the beachfront. Wh ile the Plan documents the above, it does not establish measurable safeguards within a long-term coastal management framewori<. Specifically, the Plan lacks defined carrying-<:apacity standards, such as limits on event frequency, concess ion density thresholds , dune performance benchmari<s , and post-event recovery requirements. It Docusign Envelope ID : 5EC18DCB-0B90-4A27-A9B4-A8FA3A3BFFB;;uachment B: Written Public Comment also fails to establish a direct relationship between concession revenues and shoreline restoration funding, despite the clear nexus between commercial activity and the need for ongo ing coastal maintenance and dune protection. Additionally, the Plan does not adequately address the lack of shoreline stabilization and dune reinforcement measures in North Beach, particularly in the area surrounding Allison Park and extending north to approximately 72nd Street. This stretch of shoreline is highly exposed to wave energy and repeated erosion, yet it continues to lack the structural protections and dune reinforcement strategies implemented in other parts of the City. Given the public parkland setting and the role these dunes play as storm-protection infrastructure for residents in this part of North Beach , the absence of clearly defined reinforcement or stabilization strategies is concerning. A storm-surge vulnerability analysis should be conducted for th is area so that appropriate protective measures can be incorporated into the Plan. To strengthen the Plan and ensure alignment with long-term coastal stewardship obligations , several structural safeguards should be incorporated . These include establishing geographic management zones with clear annual event caps and recovery intervals between high-impact uses ; defining concession density thresholds along with minimum unobstructed public corridors to preserve access ; incorporating annual dune elevation monitoring together with vegetation coverage benchmarks to track dune health ; requiring sand-compaction testing after major events with defined restoration timelines ; creating a dedicated dune and shoreline resilience fund supported by a defined percentage of concession and special-event revenues ; and implementing adaptive management protocols that reduce commercial activity and programming in areas experiencing significant erosion , including those within the All ison Park Neighborhood Association boundaries. Given the City 's role as a steward of sovereign coastal lands , it would also be appropriate for the Plan to include a legal and policy framework confirming that all beachfront concessions , events , and commercial programming are evaluated for consistency with Florida 's public-trust doctrine and the appl icable provisions of Chapter 253 , Florida Statutes . Ensuring that the Plan clearly reflects these obligations would help protect both the public interest and the City from potential conflicts between commerc ial beachfront activities and the State 's constitutional trust responsibilities. Incorporating these safeguards would al ign the Beachfront Management Plan with the City 's public-trust obligations while ensuring that commercial activity on the beachfront remains subordinate to the protection of public access , dune systems , and the long-term resilience of Miami Beach 's coastal resources . Respectfully, Allison Park Neighborhood Association Board of Directors (APNA) **Lindsey, Please forward to the Ad Hoc Advisory Group as public comment** Docusign En velope ID : 5EC18DCB-0B90-4A27-A9B4-A8FA3A3BFFBC From: l ject; Date: Attachment B: Written Public Comment ments Monday, Ma.-ch 9, 2026 10:51 :38 PM Thanks for sharing Frank. I have c opied in the members of the team that are leading this effo11 to renew the plan. Goo d to hear from yo u and I hope you are doing well ! Respectfully, Eric T . Carpenter, P.E. City Manager BEACH 1700 Convention Center Drive, Miarrn Beach, FL 33139 Tel : 305-673-7010 I www .miam ibea chfl.gov We are committed to providing excellent public service and safely to all who five . worl< and play ,n our vibrant, tropical, htstonc community. Sub j ect: Fwd : Bea chfron t M as t er Plan Commen t s ( THIS MESSAGE COMES FROM A."1 EXTERNAL E~WL -l'SE CAlalON ""HE~ REPLYING AND OPE1'~G LINKS OR A TI ACBMENTS I Docusign Envelope ID : 5EC18DCB-0B90-4A27-A9B4-A8FA3A3BFFBC Attachment B: Written Public Comment I just sent the below request to the City of Miami Beach website for comments on the draft Beachfront Management Plan, scheduled for review by an ad hoc committee tomorrow afternoon. I was unable to find a copy so as to transmit it directly to the 301 Ocean Drive Board of Directors, and to other interested persons, so I am retyping it below: As president of the 301 Ocean Drive Condominium Association, Inc., I request that the status of the oceanfront beach east of Marjory Stoneman Douglas Ocean Beach Park not be changed from its current use, which prohibits concessions of any kind. This 400 feet of beach frontage is regularly used by volleyball players using the city installed and maintained volleyball nets and poles, by the daily yoga classes on the beach in the morning and evening, by touch football players young and old who throw footballs, by frisbee players, and by surfers who enter from the dune crossover at the park. These outdoor activities on the beach sand are active recreation uses important to residents and visitors; in contradt to beah chairs and umbrellas. Moreover, beach concessions involve containers for beach chairs and umbrellas that render public rec r eational use of the beachfront impossible. My cell phone number i Our condominium associationwould very much appreciate it if this email request could be forwarded to the ad hoc committee, to the City Manager, and to city commissioner Alex Fernandez, who has the lead for this review. Thank you, Frank Del Vecchio Docusign Envelope ID : 5EC18DCB-0B90-4A27-A9B4-A8FA3A3BFFBC Attachment B: Written Public Comment From: I Subject: Date: Attachments: Good afternoon, Thank you for sharing the comments from the MidBeach Neighborh ood Association regarding the draft Ad Hoc Beach Management document. I have forwarded your emai l, a l ong with the enclosed comments, to both the Director and Ass i stant Director of the Environmental Department. They have been asked to share this information with the BEACH FRONT MANAGEMENT PLAN AD-HOC ADVISORY GROUP so that your perspectives can be considered in the ongo ing discussions. Regards, Rafael Granado A I r Rafael E. Granado , Esq ., City Clerk OFFICE OF THE CITY CLERK 1700 Convenboo Center Drive , Miami Beach, FL 33139 We are committed to providing excel/ant public service and safety to all who lfvtt, IM'.lrk, and play in our vibrant, tropical, historic community. From: Sent : Monday, March 9, 2026 3 :1 9 PM Subject: Public Comments Docusign Enve lop e ID : 5EC18DCB-0B90-4A27-A9B4-A8FA3A3BFFBC Attachment B: Written Public Comment [ THIS MESSAGE COMES FROM AN EXTERNAL EMAIL -USE CAUTION WHEN REPLYING AND OPENING LINKS OR ATTACHMENTS] Sent on behalf of the MidBeach Ne ig hborhood Assoc ia tion Dear Mr. Granado , We are writing to formally submit the enclosed comments from the MidBeach Neighborhood Associat ion regarding the draft Ad Hoc Beach Management document. These comments reflect the collective insights and perspectives of our commun ity members , MBNA membership and our executive committee , aiming to contribute constructively to the ongoing discussions and plann in g efforts. We appreciate your attention to this matter and look forward to any further engagement that supports effective beach management for our city. Sincerely , Oscar Vazquez Beach and Water Qua lity Working Group Sent on behalf of the MidBeach Neighborhood Association (MBNA) Board of Directors Anamarie Ferreira de Melo , Pres id ent Alicia A. Casanova , Vice Pres id ent Beachwalk Working Group , Chair Collins North 41-63 Working Group , Chair Esteba n Porcell i , Secretary Indian Creek Drive Working Group , Chair Oscar Vazquez , T reasurer Beach a nd Water Quality Working Group , Chair Randy Hollingworth , Executive Officer Public Space Working Group , Chair Jose Eduardo Flores , Executiv e Officer Docus ign Envel ope ID : 5EC1 8 DCB-0B90-4 A27 -A9B4-A8 FA 3A3BFFB C Attachment B: Written Public Comment Hotel Working Group , Chair Avra Bank , Executive Officer Ex-Officio Member, 41 st Street Comm ittee Member Susanna Santoro , Executive Officer Condominium Working Group , Cha ir Pa tri c ia Agnello , Non-Board Member Homelessness Working Group , Resident Lead www.midbeach.net @MidBeachNA Docusign Envelope ID : 5EC18DCB-0B90-4A27-A9B4-A8FA3A3BFFBC Attachment B: Written Public Comment Mid-Beach Neighborhood Association I Executive Committee I Beachfront Management Plan Written Submission MID-BEACH NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION Executive Committee DATE : March 9, 2026 TO : City Clerk , City of Miami Beach , for Inclusion in the Permanent Record CC : Beachfront Management Plan Ad Hoc Advisory Group FROM : Oscar Vazquez , Executive Committee Member and Chair , Beach and Water Quality Working Group RE : Written Comments on the Draft Beachfront Management Plan INTRODUCTION AND CORE CONCERN The Mid-Beach Neighborhood Association (MBNA) respectfully submits the following written comments on the Draft Beachfront Management Plan for consideration by the Beachfront Management Plan Ad Hoc Advisory Group and for inclusion in the permanent record of the City of Miami Beach . MBNA's overarching concern is that the draft Plan is not sufficiently visionary. While the Plan provides a useful summary of current conditions , existing programs , and current operating practices , it does not present a strong forward-looking strategy for how Miami Beach will manage worsening beach pressures over the next decade , particularly in Mid-Beach . The most significant gap is in the area of sargassum management. Since the City cannot control the source of sargassum coming ashore , and given that the City must rely on Miami-Dade County for a significant portion of cleanup and hauling capacity, the Plan should be substantially more ambitious in how it responds in the short term, scales up during peak periods , and prepares for the very real possibility that sargassum conditions become more severe over time. MBNA's strongest position is that the draft Plan should evolve from a document that largely describes current conditions into one that clearly states how the City intends to manage future and worsening conditions. This applies not only to sargassum, but to water quality , shoreline infrastructure , concession enforcement , special event impacts , dune protection, recreational use standards , turtle lighting compliance , and pedestrian safety . The Plan needs more strategy, more measurable standards, and more visible accountability , especially for Mid-Beach . MBNA CONCERNS The following twelve concerns are submitted for committee review. Each identifies a specific gap in the draft Plan and the improvement MBNA requests. 1. Sargassum Management, Surge Capacity , and Long -Term Strategy This is MBNA's highest priority concern . The Plan ment ions seaweed and shoreline accumulation management , but it does not establish measurable response thresholds , removal timelines , escalation triggers , or a clearly defined surge framework for the limited period each year when the probability of major accumulation and loss of usable beach area is highest. Docusign Envelope ID : 5EC18DCB-0890-4A27-A984-A8FA3A3BFFBC Attachment B: Written Public Comment Mid-Beach Neighborhood Assoc1at1on I Executive Committee I Beachfront Management Plan Written Submission The Plan should go substantially beyond a description of current operations. It should define when heavier-duty equipment and additional hauling capacity are activated , how tide-based scheduling is incorporated into operations , how performance is measured , and how flexible deployment is allowed when conditions shift block by block . Most importantly , the Plan should present a longer-term strategy for the possibility that sargassum becomes more frequent or more severe , including broader permitting flexibility , higher-capacity equ ipment, a clearly defined framework for coordinating surge response with Miami-Dade County given the City's reliance on County resources for large-scale removal , funding mechan isms for surge response , and evaluation of nearshore or in-water collection strategies if warranted . 2. Water Quality Protection and Red Condition Bacteria Reports The Plan does not clearly integrate beach operations with recurring red-condition water quality reports. Surfrider Foundation reports , using Florida Department of Health bacteria thresholds , often flag local beaches at red status. Yet the draft Plan does not explain how operations adapt during these periods , whether cleaning and maintenance practices change , how public health concerns are communicated , or how the City and County coordinate when both beach and water quality cond itions are impaired. Beach management and water qual ity must not be treated as separate silos . 3. Breakwater Performance at 32nd Street The Plan acknowledges the breakwaters installed near 32nd Street and notes abnormal seaweed accumulation south of the structures , but it does not take the next step of evaluating whether these structures have actually achieved their intended eros ion control purpose . Based on years of observation in Mid-Beach , MBNA's concern is that the breakwaters have contributed to chronic accumulation zones , trapped sargassum , reduced usable beach width , and negatively affected adjacent properties , particularly Triton Towers and the Edition Hotel corridor . The Plan should call for a formal performance rev iew in coordination with the U.S . Army Corps of Engineers and rema i n open to modification or removal if the structures are not performing as intended . 4 . Concession Enforcement Guidance and Accountability The concess ion rules are detailed , but the Plan does not prov ide sufficient practical guidance on how concession enforcement is carried out , monitored , priorit ized , and reported over time . Concessions affect equipment storage , veh icle activity , public access , noise , and visual clutter . MBNA's concern is not merely whether rules exist , but whethe r there is sufficient accountability to ensure they are enforced consistently . The Plan should bette r explain inspection protocols , repeat violation tracking , conflict resolution between concess ion operations and public beach use , and public reporting of enforcement outcomes . 5. Special Events , Neighborhood Coordination , and Traffic Impacts The draft references event oversight and post-event restorat ion , but it does not clearly define what qual ifies as a high-impact event , nor does it establ ish sufficiently objective restora ti on standards . From a Mid-Beach standpoin t, a key recurring problem is that beach events can generate substantial traffic and neighborhood disruption when they are not adequately communica ted and coordinated w ith resident associat ions . The Plan shou ld include stronger expectations for advance coordination w ith affected neighborhood groups , clearer traffic and access management protocols , and measurable standards for restor i ng impacted beach areas following an event. 6 . Dune Setback Protections , Encroachment , and Active Management The Plan is clear that the dune system must be protected , but it is stronger on general rules than on act ive managemen t and enforcement in high-pressure areas . MBNA is particularly concerned that the Plan does not provide adequate pract ica l de tail on how dune encroachment cases are addressed . •r 1 [\ ,nag£, r nt P rl Docusign En velope ID : 5EC 18DCB-0B90-4A27-A9B4-A8FA3A3BFFBC Attachment B: Written Public Comment Mid-Beach Neighborhood Association I Executive Committee I Beachfront Management Plan Written Submission This concern is heightened by current attempts by the Fontainebleau to push dune encroachment. The Plan should more clearly address how the City responds when private or operational interests place pressure on dune setbacks, fencing , vegetation, or protected areas , and should make clear that protection of the dune system is not negotiable . 7. Watersport Channels in Mid-Beach and Future Reactivation Risk The Plan lists watersport concession channels in Mid-Beach , including inactive channels , but does not explain why inactive channels remain listed , what would be required to reactivate them, whether new safety and environmental review would be necessary , or whether neighborhoods would receive advance notice. MBNA is concerned that inactive channels function as latent approvals for future high-impact activity that could change the character of specific Mid-Beach blocks without a clear public decision framework. 8. Kite Surfing Standards and Broader Recreational Use Clarity The draft Plan is silent on kite surfing . There are no clear standards for licensing , insurance , signage , permitted areas , or enforcement. Given the issues that have arisen near 23rd Street , this omission is significant. The Plan should clearly distinguish between motorized concession-based watersports and non-motorized uses such as kite surfing , and should establ ish understandable operating rules for both categories. 9. Turtle Lighting Compliance and Enforcement The draft Plan references the strengthened Turtle Nesting Protection Ordinance and special event coordination during nesting season , but it still does not provide sufficient operational detail on how lighting compliance is monitored and enforced in practice . Given the importance of turtle-friendly lighting in a heavily developed urban beachfront , MBNA believes the Plan should more clearly explain inspection protocols , accountability for noncompliance , and how temporary event lighting , concession lighting, and adjacent upland lighting are managed during nesting season . 10. Packed Sand Pedestrian Path and Beachwalk Congestion MBNA has focused for years on pedestr ian safety and congestion along the narrow Beachwalk sections between 23rd and 63rd Streets . The proposed packed sand pedestrian path east of the dunes is one potential solution and , as understood , is currently moving through regulatory review. Yet the draft Plan does not meaningfully acknowledge this proposal or prov ide a broader strategy for pedestrian circulation and congest ion relief in this corridor . The Plan should recognize this path , or comparable alternatives , as part of a larger public safety and access response. 11. Vehicle Enforcement, Environmental Risk, and Beach Operations The rules for beach vehicles are deta iled , but the Plan does not adequately explain how those rules are monitored , how frequently compliance is checked , or how fluid leaks , rutting , and unsafe driving are documented and corrected . Vehicle use on the beach directly affects public safety , sand conditions , and public confidence in beach management. MBNA requests that the Plan include clearer accountability mechanisms for beach vehicle operations. 12. Mid-Beach Specific Planning and Budget Accountability The Plan is citywide in scope and includes a broad ten-year budget , but it does not prov ide a Mid- Beach-specific management lens or demonstrate how resources and priorities are tailored to the distinctive issues facing this corridor , including narrow beach width , chron ic sargassum accumu lation , Beachwalk congest ion , and infrastructure concerns. MBNA believes the Plan would be substantially stronger if it recognized Mid-Beach as a distinct management area with clearer accountability for project prioriti es , operations , and funding. 8, 1 .htrr ,, ilnanage n ,nt P " Docusign En ve lope ID : 5EC18DCB-0B90-4A27-A9B4-A8FA3A3BFFBC Attachment B: Written Public Comment Mid-Beach Neighborhood Association I Executive Committee I Beachfront Management Plan Written Submission CONCLUSION MBNA respectfully urges the Ad Hoc Advisory Group to recommend that the Beachfront Management Plan be substant ially strengthened before adoption , particularly w ith respect to sargassum response strategy , water quality integration , Mid-Beach specificity , and measurable performance standards . The Plan as currently drafted largely describes what is already happening . What Miami Beach needs is a plan that clearly states what the City will do when conditions worsen , who is accountable , and how the public w ill know whether the plan is working . MBNA appreciates the opportun it y to submit these comments for the permanent record and looks forward to cont inued engagement with the Advisory Group and City staff on these matters . Respectfully submitted , Oscar Vazquez Chair , Beach and Water Quality Work ing Group On Behalf of the M id-Beach Ne ighborhood Association March 9, 2026 •. hfr I Mana, e Docusign Envelope ID : 5EC18DCB-0B90-4A27-A9B4-A8FA3A 3BFFBC Attachment B: Written Public Comment Batlle, Sabrina From: Knowles, Amy Sent: To: Tuesday, March 10, 2026 10:09 AM Batlle, Sabrina Subject: FW : Beachfront Management Plan Ad -Hoc Adv isory Meeting Subject : Fw: Beachfro nt Management Plan Ad-Hoc Advisory Meeting FYI MIAMI BEACH Stephanie Rey Brooks Administrative Support Manager II Office Of The Ci ty Manager 1700 Convention Center Drive , Miami Beach. FL 33139 Tel : 305-673-7000 Ext 26767/ Fax : 305-673-7782 www.miamibeachfl .gov Office Hours: Monday-Friday 8:30 am-5:00 pm We are commifled to providing excellent public service and safety to all who live. work and play in our vibrant. tropical. historic community. ~ Please do not print this e-mail unless necessary. Sub j ect: Beac hfront Management Plan Ad -Hoc Advisory Meeting Docus ign En vel ope ID: 5EC1 8DCB-0B90 -4A2 7-A9B4-A8 FA3A3 BFFB C ( TI:115 NESSAGl COMES FROM AN EXT1 OPSNIHG UNKS OftATTACHHEHTS J Dear City Manager Carpenter, Attachment B: Written Public Comment Ahead of today's meeting regarding the Beachfront Management Plan, we are sending you a summary of our discussion from last week and hope the City will carefully consider our points and recommendations. As our City Manager and Elected Officials, you are entrusted with protecting our natural lands and resources, including our beach and parks, ensuring that commercial activities remain secondary to environmental and community prior ities. The constant influx of Special Events, especially in our neighborhood, not only disrupts residents' quality of life and the visitor experience, it puts a strain on city services-including Police and Fire, and causes significant harm to our beach, park, and natural environment. To protect our coastal lands-which are safeguarded under Florida state law-we believe the number of events should be substantially reduced and spaced further apart throughout the year. While we have a specific v ision for the location, the footprint, and the build out/break down period for events which might remain in our neighborhood, we are listing the general issues we have with the use of our beach and park here: C ity Sponsorship and Fee Wa ivers: We respectfully urge the City to ELIMINATE both IMPACT FEE WAIVERS and CITY SPONSORSHIP for COMMERCIAL EVENTS. These policies create unintended negative consequences: • Financial fairness: When the City waives impact fees or sponsors for-profit events, taxpayers effectively subsidize private business operations. This shifts financial responsibility for environmental restoration, cleanup, and enforcement away from event producers to residents. • Resource strain : City services such as police, sanitation, and traffic management are diverted from community uses to support commercial functions that already generate substantial revenue. • Environmental accountability: Without financial stakes-such as impact fees tied to environmental restoration-orgar:,izers have less incentive to min imize ecological damage or mitigate post-event impact. Given these factors, the City should maintain a clear separation between public trust responsibilities and commercial activities, ensuring that special event permits fully reflect actual costs and ecological risks. Improvements to the Review Process: We respectfully request additional reforms to the Special Event Review and Approval process prior to permit issuance, including: • Require community feedback early-well before the current Community Review Meetings occur and before permits are granted. Event organizers and promoters (in addition to full site plans & event schedules provided}, should also 2 Doc us ign En velope ID : 5EC1 8 DC B-0B90 -4A27 -A9 B4-A8 FA3 A3BFFB C Attachment B: Written Public Comment meet stronger transparency requ i rements by presenting: • Community benefit statements. • Environmental impact assessments . • Contractual agreements. • Safety and traffic management plans (scaled to event size). • Parking plans and crowd flow management. Post -event reporting and community feedback should likewise be mandatory and incorporated into next year's review process, addressing: • Impact on the community, quality of life, and natural env i ronment . • Profit and lo ss statements. Qua li ty -of-Life Considerations: We would also like to highlight seve ral ongoing quality-of-life concerns affecting residents and visitors, including: • Balanc i ng commun ity benefit with d i sruption (traffic, noise management, speaker orientat ion, etc.). • Pollut ion from back-of-house activities. • Obstruction of ocean views and restricted beach access. • Improved temporary signage, light i ng, and pedestrian navigation . • Maintaining Lummus Park as open green space for relaxation. Thank you for your attent i on to these recommendations and for yo u r continued service to our community. We hope these suggestions will be given full consideration in future policy discuss ions and eve nt approval dec isions. Si ncerely, Irene Bigger & the ADNA Board .. ------ART DECO NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION 3