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Dear Friends of District 8,
As always, thank you for staying up to date with the latest District 8 news. Read on to find out more about what's happened and what's coming up.
February is Black History Month and I was especially excited to attend the annual South Dade Gospel Fest. A very special shout out to the Black Affairs Advisory Board for their excellent line up of events celebrating black history throughout the month. Black history is Miami-Dade history.
On the legislation front, I am championing a resolution that will allocate funding for a new playground in District 8 and an ordinance that would streamline the conflict of interest requirements at the county. Read on to find out how to get involved.
This month, I visited Tallahassee and Washington D.C. to advocate for Miami-Dade priorities, especially our water. Back home, Team 8 supported the re-opening of the historic Redland Farm Life Center. Scroll through to find out more about this South Dade institution.
This month I was very proud to be part of the BankOn Miami launch with Chairman Jean Monestime and Commissioner Barbara Jordan.
Launching BankOn Miami at the Stephen P. Clark Government Center
With our BankOn Community Partners
Delivering Policy Solutions
My office sponsored several resolutions ranging from protecting wildlife to efficiently providing better social services that were passed the Board of County Commissioners in February.
Update on Legislation Requiring Elected Officials to Disclose Solicitations for Political Committees
In late 2015 I proposed an ordinance that would require all elected officials to disclose when they solicit funds for a political committee. After passing first reading and the Strategic Planning and Government Operations Committee, the legislation went to a final vote on February 2nd. After a robust discussion and many questions from the County Commissioners, the Board decided to organize a workshop and discuss the legislation in greater detail before voting. A date for the workshop is forthcoming and I encourage you to follow us on Facebook and Twitter to keep up with the most up to the minute news.
Here's what's coming up at the Board of County Commissioners:
Economic development assistance of $1.5 million for downtown Homestead passed the Economic Prosperity Committee. This will help the city in its revitalization efforts and focuses investment on transit oriented development.
An ordinance requiring County Commissioners to declare in writing when a conflict of interest exists with a matter being considered at the Board.
A resolution allocating funding for a new children's playground at Debbie Curtin Park in District 8.
Please contact us with any ideas or suggestions. If you would like to speak at one of the meetings, be sure to arrive by 10 a.m. to the Stephen P. Clark Government Center (111 N.W. 1st street) and fill out a speaker's card. Let us know if you are coming! If you have any questions, please call 305-375-5218 or write to us at [email protected].
District 8 Mom and Pop Applications are Now Available
The Mom and Pop Grants are back! Small business owners may apply for grants for their commercial or home-based businesses. Applications are available until March 1st and there will be a mandatory workshop explaining the process and requirements on March 1st at 5:30 p.m. at the South Dade Government Center (10710 SW 211th St. Suite 104). Download the application at the District 8 website.
Celebrating Black History Through Music at the South Dade Gospel Fest
The fifth annual South Dade Gospel Fest was a moving tribute to the immeasurable contributions made by African-Americans in culture and the arts. Team 8 dressed up in their Sunday best and joined in the singing and celebration.
Team 8 warming up our singing voices at the 2016 Gospel Fest
District 8 resident and Senator Anitere Flores wrote her Commissioner a letter opposing fracking. Shout out to Senator Flores for her awesome advocacy. Check out her oped on the dangers of fracking here.
Speaking with Florida Senator Bill Nelson about the importance of funding Everglades Restoration
Raising Funds for the Redland Farm Life School
Team 8 put on their classy country best and attended the Redland Farm Life Center Founders Dinner to support the re-opening of the historic Redland Farm Life School.
Working to re-open the Redland Farm Life School
It's So Miami, South Dade Edition
Shout out to the Greater Miami Convention and Visitors Bureau for their fabulous videos showcasing South Dade's unique appeal. Stay tuned for our next newsletter to watch the It's So Miami, Homestead edition.
Contact Daniella and Team 8
District 8 Office South Dade Government Center 10710 SW 211th street, suite 103 Miami, FL 33189 305-378-6677 Phone
Downtown Office Stephen P. Clark Government Center 111 NW 1 Street, Suite 220 Miami, Florida 33128 305-375-5218 Phone 305-372-6073 Fax
Palmetto Bay's signature event returns with the 14th annual Palmetto Bay Picnic on March 5th. Enjoy carnival rides, a bike ride with Mayor Eugene Flinn and an antique car show.
The Asian Cultural Festival Returns to South Dade
Celebrate our thriving Asian community and enjoy a day filled with arts, crafts, entertainment and cuisine. The 26th annual Asian Cultural Festival takes place on March 5th and 6th at the Fruit and Spice Park.
Bring your Appetite to the Deering Seafood Festival
Come hungry to the Deering Estate Seafood Festival on March 20th. Be sure to visit the District 8 table as you enjoy tasty seafood and fantastic entertainment at the beautiful Deering Estate. Look out for the Animal Services Adopt-a-Pet center. While enjoying the event, adopt a pet!
Strap on Your Helmet: March is Bike305 Month
Join me and Mayor Carlos Gimenez on March 4th for Bike to Work Day and help us raise awareness about cycling in Miami-Dade. I encourage you to try biking to work at least once. You may find a whole new way to get to work!
