Miami-Dade County files lawsuit to evict The Dolphin Company

Today, Miami-Dade County filed a lawsuit to evict The Dolphin Company (“MS Leisure”) from the Miami Seaquarium after serving a notice of termination on April 22, 2024. After the company failed to vacate the premises, Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava has decided to move forward with the next step in the process by filing the eviction complaint. 

Members of the media can find the complaint attached, and below is a joint statement from Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava and Commissioner Raquel Regalado whose district includes the Seaquarium: 

"Our ultimate priority has always been to ensure the safety and wellbeing of the hundreds of animals in the Seaquarium’s care, and it’s critical that we proceed in a manner that best protects them.  

Miami-Dade County continues to believe that the grounds for the termination of the lease are still present, and for that reason we have decided to continue with the eviction process in court. We expect the Dolphin Company to take the necessary steps to vacate the premises and ensure that the transition is done in a safe and orderly manner, especially for the animals under their care.      

It’s time to turn the page on a new chapter as we remain committed to the health and wellbeing of these animals. 

Thank you to all the residents and advocates who have made your voices heard on this important topic.”