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Backstage at the 8th Annual Jazz in the Gardens BY ELVIS ANDERSON HUGE success! That’s how most EVERYONE in the City of Miami Gardens and beyond is describing Jazz in the Gardens, 2013. From Mayor Oliver Gilbert, to the city council members, to an incredible line-up of performers and top-notch food and beverage vendors taking part and perhaps most importantly, the thousands of fans who flocked to Sun Life stadium for two full days of amazing entertainment, food and fun in the sun! Hosting over 63,000 people during the two day music extravaganza, Jazz in the Gardens once again allowed Miami Gardens to showcase the talent, creativity and community pride evident throughout the City. This is an event that’s all about fun – evident in a rousing report from the Miami Gardens Police Department reporting a weekend without any incidents. With visitors from all over the country attending this year’s Jazz in the Gardens, tourists from major cities such as New York, Atlanta, Washington D.C. and even Los Angeles, Jazz in the Gardens continues to set the standard of what the City of Miami Gardens has to offer to not only fans in Florida, but the entire nation! A few days before the 8th Annual Jazz in the Gardens, we walked the grounds with the
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CALENDAR OF EVENTS
Monica with young girls.
event’s production team. The stage construction crew scurried to make final touches to the massive stage. Long haired, tattooed workers communicated in code on their walky-talkies, they spoke about digital consoles, in-ear systems and such. It was obvious this wasn’t their first gig; they were seasoned concert pros. The lights that would shine brightly against Charlie Wilson’s sequin suit were secured; the eight-foot tall speakers that would belt Fantasia’s soulful voice and Najee’s soothing saxophone sound were being tested. Like the calm before a storm, it was quiet and the tens of thousands of white audience chairs were empty. In less than 24 hours, this
place was going to be packed to the brim. NeYo, Earth Wind & Fire, Charlie Wilson, New Edition, Monica, Fantasia, Kenny ‘Babyface’ Edmonds, Najee, Nicole Henry and Mary Mary were en route to the City of Miami Gardens – a party was about to go down! From the first note of local emerging artists Unselfish, who sang the National Anthem, to the last lyric from Earth Wind & Fire, the show was chock full of world class professional talent. If you want to see what a professional looks like – watch Kenny ‘Babyface’ Edmonds come out of his trailer and stroll on stage in a black suit and black aviators. This wasn’t his first rodeo. A highlight of his show is where he performs songs he wrote and produced for others such as Boyz II Men’s “End of the Road” and “I’ll Make Love to You.” The crowd went absolutely wild when Johnny Gill joined Babyface on stage, impromptu, to perform the
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1990 Babyface-written smash, “My My My.” If you want to see what cool looks like – watch Ne-Yo come off stage and do a pumped up secret handshake with one of his backup dancers, celebrating their crowd thrilling performance. Fresh off his UK tour, Ne-Yo arrived in a pristine white Rolls-Royce with his eight backup dancers. Ne-Yo and crew performed in London two days before landing in Miami Gardens, yet the jetlag didn’t show. Their high-energy performance included, “Let Me Love You” and “Miss Independent.” For Charlie Wilson, his brilliant 60minute “song and dance” with three colorcoordinated wardrobe changes was the culmination of 50 years in the biz. Uncle Charlie blasted several of his hits including, “There Goes My Baby,” “My Love Is All I Have,” and for the grand finale… he blew the roof off the place with, “You Dropped A Bomb On Me.” 30,000 Jazz in the Gardens-goers were fist-pumping in the aisles, cutting a rug and breaking it down. One of the most amazing backstage moments from the show was not how Fantasia took the stage, but how she left the stage. As the band finished up the last few notes of, “Lose To Win,” a hysterical Fantasia was rushed to a waiting black Suburban in tears. Comedian and co-host on the Michael Baisden Show, George Wilborn walked with her and told her goodbye. I had to ask George, “Is she okay? Why was she crying so hard?” He replied, “You never know where art comes from. It could have come from a sad time in her life, reminded her of a bad relationship or bad moment and when an artist performs from their heart that can happen, the tears can flow.” If you want to know what nice looks
like – scan the internet for “Jazz in the Gardens fan photos with Monica.” There must be hundreds. Most of the artists took photos with admiring fans, but the runaway fan photo leader is Monica… and there isn’t a close second. Apparently she’s always been friendly with her fans - her road manager, her road manager’s boyfriend and her body-guard were all accustomed to her actions. Everyone but me knew that, “one more photo” actually meant 50 more photos. Intensity was a common trait all the headliners shared; they were serious about their business. Their commitment to delivering a memorable performance for the audience was apparent. Ne-Yo was serious and all business when he arrived backstage and went straight to his trailer – he had a show to get ready for. You could see the difference in attitude in the artists’ walks to the stage then back to their trailers. You’ll notice a more relaxed version of Kenny ‘Babyface’ Edmonds in the photo with Mayor Oliver Gilbert and the Miami Gardens City Council after his performance – Babyface’s work was done. You’ll notice a content Monica as four young girls got the chance of a lifetime to chat with her – Monica’s show was a success. Was the entire Jazz in the Gardens 2013 a success? City of Miami Gardens leaders say yes! “Being backstage is the other side of the coin. The crowd on the outside gets to see performances in all their grandeur. But backstage you get to see how it all comes together. Everybody is working on assembling a show like no other. We get to see the artists on their way to and from stage. It’s a very interesting perspective. The whole 2013 festival from front to back, was just amazing” said Miami Gardens Mayor Oliver Gilbert.
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May 2013
South Florida Landlords Beware
BY JULIA YARBOUGH
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We hear it time and again - stories on the news about individuals taking advantage of the high number of foreclosed and/or vacant properties in South Florida and homes “for rent.” Time and again I share stories and information with my fellow South Floridians based on personal experiences (good and bad) that might, in some way offer help to others. In this case, let my experience be a learning experience for all of you. Recently I had the “pleasure” of stepping a foot into the world of the SOUTH FLORIDA EVICTION PROCESS. Unfortunately, such cases are happening all too often, so educate yourself before delving into the property rental market. What an ordeal, as I was forced to take legal steps to remove a man and his family from my property. He decided to stop paying rent and refused to pay a several hundred dollar utility bill. For as many news stories as I covered over the years detailing this situation, I had no true idea of just how complicated it could be. Before renting property, conducting financial and criminal backgrounds are vital, but landlords — take it one step further. Do your own on-line, personal and business investigating. My tenant checked out on paper; presenting himself as an upstanding businessman in the community as the owner of several SUBWAY franchises in the area. However, had a conduct-
ed a more extensive “digging-around” on my own, I would have discovered items which would have raised red flags. You see, there are many ways an individual can escape having a record of perhaps failing to pay rent or being kickedout, without a formal eviction showing up on file. Unsuspecting landlords have no true picture of the individual. In this case, the tenant agreed to give up my property, pay outstanding utility bills and settle just hours before a final eviction was to be filed in court. Hence, the next landlord would have no idea what this tenant is possibly capable of. Also, double-check that your tenants have transferred all utilities into their name and address; DO NOT TAKE THEIR WORD FOR IT! Many tenants know they will not be held liable for the charges should they decide not to pay and the utility company will come after you for payment, regardless of providing a signed lease agreement. Request what is known as double-billing so you receive monthly statements verifying accounts are current. Bottom line - read everything about Florida’s landlord/tenant laws so you stay one step ahead of those seeking to take advantage. There’s a good chance those looking to cheat the system HAVE read everything about the laws and they know what loopholes exist for them to slide through. Most important - have an excellent realtor and real estate attorney on stand-by!
May 2013
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BUILDING TRUST; BUILDING CIVIC PRIDE BY JULIA YARBOUGH “Know that change is inevitable.” Words of heartfelt advice to the leaders, residents and visitors to The City of Miami Gardens from the young city’s first Mayor, Shirley Gibson. As our community marks an historic birthday milestone – the 10 year anniversary of the creation of Miami Gardens, the woman who played a pivotal role in facing the challenges of building a new city and forging an unchartered path for success is reflecting on her years at the helm, what comes next for her and what she hopes to see evolve for her beloved City of Miami Gardens. “The city has a short history and that SHIRLEY GIBSON history has been wrapped up in the last ten years. The challenge now is whatever the vision is, to take it into the next ten years and not be afraid of making decisions that might be different; decisions that might not be the norm and not be afraid,” says Gibson. I recently caught up with former Mayor Shirley Gibson on a brisk South Florida Spring morning. A rare occasion while she was in-between community events and meetings with enough time to chat about her renewed interest in and love of gardening. “I’ve embraced the change of not serving as Mayor. This change has given me the opportunity to relax in ways I’ve never been able to. I can relax, do some gardening, watch my butterfly garden and spend time with my new granddaughter. It’s a great freedom. It’s a time of transition.” Transition is the word also now facing the new leadership of The City of Miami Gardens. It’s something Gibson speaks of with hope yet a hint of caution. Drawing on her tenure as a guide and personally understanding the challenges leadership faces in creating new opportunities, ideas and visions for a city, Gibson says she is excited to watch the next chapters unfold for the
City and its residents. “I want to be able to direct them to what feels like a real “hub” of the city; the HEART of the city and that is what the future, new leadership will focus on. The city has done tremendous, but it doesn’t have a heart – the center – where you have a cluster of businesses, entertainment, cultural opportunities. Every city has a heart and that is what I see next for Miami Gardens; the real heart for economic development that defines this city. That’s what I see. That’s what I hope for.” Hope for the future of our children is also near and dear to Gibson’s heart. Since handing over the reins of the city, Gibson has remained active in pursuits to raise awareness on the importance of education and cultural learning. She sits on the board of Miami Gardens Excellence and Education Council which she championed to start several years ago. Gibson is in the midst of planning the Council’s first big recognition celebration and fundraising gala set for June 1, 2013. “What we’re doing is honoring traditional and non-traditional individuals in the community who have worked in education. I’m hoping to get the issues of education to the forefront and in the media; showing how education takes a positive role.” For Gibson, it seems positivity and being a role model are attributes she will be remembered for and what spark the most emotional memories of serving as the first Mayor of The City of Miami Gardens. “When people stop me and introduce themselves and say, ‘I live in Miami Gardens. I just want to tell you when all of this started of trying to get a city, I didn’t like it, support it or want it. But I want to thank you for staying the course and how proud I am of our city. I want to thank you because I couldn’t see the vision’ – that has been the most heartwarming thing for me. It says to me, my time as Mayor was all part of a process that went to the larger sense of community. Our success happened because people were able to see and touch change and it worked for them. I’m no longer Mayor but that’s still my mission: to give people better.”
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Miami Gardens Calendar of Events MAY 2013 MAY 8
MAY 15
MAY 20
Junior Council 1515 NW 167 Street, bldg. 5-200 Miami Gardens, FL Council Chambers @ 3:30pm-5:30pm
Elderly Affairs Advisory 1515 NW 167 Street, bldg. 5-200 Conference Room @ 3:00pm-4:30pm
Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC) Police Department 1020 NW 163 Drive Miami Gardens, FL @ 7pm *TENTATIVE*
Commission for Women Meeting 1515 NW 167 Street, bldg. 5-200 Conference Room @ 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm
City Council Meeting 1515 NW 167 Street, bldg. 5-200 Miami Gardens, FL Council Chambers @ 7pm
MAY 21 Caribbean Affairs Advisory 1515 NW 167 Street, bldg. 5-200 Council Chambers @ 6pm
MAY 16
MAY 13
Nuisance Abatement Board 1515 NW 167 Street, bldg. 5-200 Miami Gardens, FL Council Chambers @ 5pm
Mayor’s State of the City Address Florida Memorial University Lou Rawls Theater 15800 NW 42nd Avenue Miami Gardens, FL
Parks & Rec. Advisory 1515 NW 167 Street, bldg. 5-200 City Hall Conference Room Miami Gardens, FL @ 6:00pm
MAY 14 Miami Gardens Excellence in Education Council 1515 NW 167 Street, bldg. 5-200 Council Chambers @ 6:00 p.m.
City Council Meeting 1515 NW 167 Street, bldg. 5-200 Miami Gardens, FL Council Chambers @ 7pm
MAY 27 Memorial Day Event Betty T. Ferguson Recreational Complex 3000 NW 199 Street
MAY 22 Special Master Hearing 1515 NW 167 Street, bldg. 5-200 Council Chambers @ 9am – 3pm Junior Council 1515 NW 167 Street, bldg. 5-200 Miami Gardens, FL Council Chambers @ 3:30p-5:30p
CITY OFFICE CLOSED
City of Miami Gardens Police Department Use these numbers to contact us Operations Division Major Anthony Chapman . .305-474-1406 Broadcast Permits . . . . . . . .305-474-1406
School Crossing Guards Cheris Asberry . . . . . . . . . . .305-474-1526 Investigations Division Major Alan Mandelbloom . .305-474-1407 Captain Rafael Suarez . . . . .305-474-1430 Captain Alfred Lewers . . . .305-474-1420 Crime Watch . . . . . . . . . . . .305-474-1407 Victim Advocate . . . . . . . . .305-474-1490
Support Services Division Major Steve . . . . . . . . . . . . .305-474-1408 Captain Frank Trujillo . . . . .305-474-1516 Traffic Unit . . . . . . . . . . . . .305-474-1391 Off-Duty Employment . . . . 305-474-1412 False Alarm Questions . . . .877-665-2980 Red Camera Questions . . . .866-225-8875 Professional Compliance Unit Internal Affairs . . . . . . . . . .305-622-8059
Dial 911 for emergencies Non-Emergency Police Communications & Information (305) 474-MGPD (6473) Thanks for your assistance.
May 2013
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City of Miami Gardens Staff Directory
Name NAME Julie-Ann Smith Sonja K. Dickens Sonja K. Dickens Ronetta Taylor Ronetta Taylor Danny Crew Danny Crew Daniel Rosemond Renee Crichton Vernita Rosemond Nelson Daniel Vernita Tsashai Nelson Codner Tasha ShellieCodner Ransom Jackson Sharon Ragoonan Patti Varney Patti Varney Mike Gabino Mike Gabino Taren Kinglee Taren Kinglee John Petty Rebar Kara Jay JayMarder Marder O. Tom Tom RuizRuiz Pam Thompson Pam Thompson Ula Zucker-Williams Matthew Boyd Matthew Boyd Hilary Marshall Hilary Marshall Tashek Hamlette Tashek Hamlette Lillie Odom DavidQ. Motola David Motola
Department E-mail DEPARTMENT E-MAIL Asst. to Mayor jsmith@miamigardens-fl.gov City Attorney dickens@miamigardens-fl.gov City Attorney sdickens@miamigardens-fl.gov City Clerk taylorr@miamigardens-fl.gov City Clerk rtaylor@miamigardens-fl.gov City Manager crewd@miamigardens-fl.gov City Manager crewd@miamigardens-fl.gov Assistant City Manager drosemond@miamigardens-fl.gov Deputy City Manager rcrichton@miamigardens-fl.gov Assistant City Manager vnelson@miamigardens-fl.gov Asst. City Manager drosemond@miamigardens-fl.gov Asst. City Manager vnelson@miamigardens-fl.gov KMGB Director codner@miamigardens0fl.gov KMGB Building Director& Code codner@miamigardens-fl.gov Director ransom@miamigardens-fl.gov Director. Building & Code sragoonan@miamigardens-fl.gov Finance Director pvarney@miamiGardens-fl.gov Finance Director pvarney@miamigardens-fl.gov Flood Plain Administrator mgabino@miamigardens-fl.gov Flood Plain Administrator mgabino@miamigardens-fl.gov Human Resources/Risk Director tkinglee@miamigardens-fl.gov Human Resources/ Risk Director tkinglee@miamigardens-fl.gov Parks & Recreation Director jrebar@miamigardens-fl.gov Parks & Recreation Director kpetty@miamigardens-fl.gov Planning Zoning Director jmarder@miamigardens-fl.gov Planning && Zoning Director jmarder@miamigardens-fl.gov PublicWorks Works Director truiz@miamigardens-fl.gov Public Director truiz@maimigardens-fl.gov Procurement Manager pthompson@miamigarders-fl.gov Procurement Manager pthompson@miamigardens-fl.gov Events and Media Coordinator uzucker@miamigardens-fl.gov Miami Gardens Police Chief Miami Gardens Police Chief Assistant AssistanttotoCouncil Council hmarshall@miamigardens-fl.gov (Odom, D. Williams, MayorDavis, Gilbert) (Vice Mayor Campbell, D. Williams) hmarshall@miamigardens-fl.gov AssistanttotoCouncil Council thamlette@miamigardens-fl.gov Assistant (Gilbert, Davis, A. Williams, Robinson) (Ighodaro, A. Williams and Robinson) thamlette@miamigardens-fl.gov Community lodom@miamigardens-fl.gov Fleet Manager Outreach Specialist dmotola@miamigardens-fl.gov Fleet Manager dmotols@miamigardens-fl.gov
Main MAIN 305-622-8010 (305) 622-8055 305-622-8055 (305) 622-8003 305-622-8003 (305) 622-8007 305-622-8007 (305) 622-8005 305-622-8006 (305) 622-8008 305-622-8005 305-622-8008 (305) 622-8009 305-622-8009 (305) 622-8054 305-622-8018 (305) 622-8000 Ext. 2780 305-622-8000 Ext. 2780 (305) 622-8039 305-622-8039 (305) 622-8030 305-622-8030 (305) 622-8000 Ext. 2528 305-622-8080 305-622-8025 (305) 622-8025O. 305-622-8004 (305) 622-8004 305-622-8000 (305) 622-8000 Ext. Ext. 2490 2490 305-622-8035 (305) 744-1400 305-474-1400 305-622-8000 Ext. 2793 (305) 622-8000 Ext. 2793 305-622-8000 Ext. 2705 (305) 622-8000 Ext. 2705 305622.8000 (305) 622-8024ext Ext.2760 1 (305) 622-8024 ext 1
City of Miami Gardens Mayor and Council’s Corner To contact your Council representatives, call 305-622-8010.
Mayor Oliver Gilbert III
Vice-Mayor Lisa C. Davis (Seat 2)
Councilwoman Lillie Q. Odom (Seat 1)
Councilman Rodney Harris (Seat 3)
Councilwoman Felicia S. Robinson (Seat 4)
Councilman Councilman David Williams, Jr. Dr. Erhabor Ighodaro (Seat 6) (Seat 5)
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May 2013
The City Is Looking For First-Time Homebuyers Are you interested in purchasing a home in Miami Gardens? Are you a firsttime home buyer? Then the City of Miami Gardens may have a program to assist you! Through the Neighborhood Stabilization Program, the City of Miami Gardens received $8.8 million in funds from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The program’s purpose is to return vacant, foreclosed or abandoned residential properties to viable owner-occupied homes as quickly as possible. By the rehabilitation and reuse of these properties, the City has been able to revitalize our neighborhoods and provide affordable homeownership within Miami Gardens. Otherwise, these homes would remain abandoned and, in some cases, an eyesore in the community. Since the program’s inception in 2008, the City has purchased 74 vacant and foreclosed single-family properties, and rehabilitated 54 of those parcels thus far; 7 are currently under construction. In addition, the City has demolished 13 properties previously deemed unsafe and blighted; 5 have been redeveloped and sold to qualified first-time homebuyers with 2 currently under construction. Most importantly, the City has sold 50 homes at an average sales price of $124,000, and has 6 homes currently under contract to qualified first-time homebuyers. A total of 146 people have found permanent homeownership, and more than half of the homes sold have been to women as head of household. The majority of homebuyers have been African American (34) with the remaining being of White Hispanic (16) origin. Each eligible homebuyer may receive up to $55,000 in financial assistance from the City for their down payment and closing costs. The amount each buyer receives is based on their actual need according to their income and household size to ensure affordable homeownership. The City does not make a profit from the sale of these homes. The proceeds from the sales are re-invested back into the program. In the coming months, the City will begin rehabilitation on 12 more properties. These homes will be made available for sale as the rehabilitation is in progress. Here are some of the basic eligibility criteria to buy one of the City’s NSP homes:* • Household income cannot exceed 120% of the area median income. (See Table
Before
After
here) • Buyer must contribute approximately $2,000. • Buyer must be able to qualify for a mortgage loan. • Buyer must occupy the home as their primary residence. • Buyer cannot have owned a home in the past three years. • Additional assistance available for buyers under 50% of the area median income. (See Table Below) 2013 Area Median Income Household Size
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
120% of AMI
$ 54,960 $ 62,880 $ 70,680 $ 78,480 $ 84,840 $ 91,080 $ 97,320 $103,680
50% of AMI
$22,900 $ 26,200 $ 29,450 $ 32,700 $ 35,350 $ 37,950 $ 40,550 $ 43,200
If you think you meet the eligibility criteria described above and are interested in purchasing a home in Miami Gardens, please visit the City’s website: www.miamigardens-fl.gov and look for P Propertiess forr Sale” link under the “NSP the Latest News Section or contact the Department of Community Development at (305) 622-8041. *Additional eligibility criteria applicable.
May 2013
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Keeping our Kids Safe Miami Gardens Crossing Guards Honored BY JULIA YARBOUGH Each and every morning and afternoon handful of dedicated City of Miami Gardens employees take to the streets to devote their time and attention to making sure our most valuable assets are kept safe – our children. Often times overlooked for their devotion and service, Crossing Guards play a vital role in the health of our city. After all the good health and safety of children means EVERYONE benefits. Honors and kudos go out this month to several crossing guards recognized by members of the City of Miami Gardens Council with a Five Year Service Award. Congratulations to Crossing Guard Lessie Thomas and Brandon Jones-Starks! From the outside, it may seem like the work of a Crossing Guard is simple; but think again. There are 18 elementary schools in the City of Miami Gardens. That translates into thousands of youngsters making their way to and from school each day, sharing the busy rush-hour time frames with thousands of drivers and vehicles. Getting our youngest and brightest safely from point A to point B is the primary goal of Crossing Guards. That can be a tough job here in Florida. According to statistics compiled from the Department of Transportation, our state consistently ranks one of the WORST in the nation in the number of hit and run accidents reported, many involving children. In fact, according to the Florida Highway Patrol, Florida had nearly 70,000 hit and run crashes last year alone. Three out of every five fatalities were caused by hit and run crashes. Those are sobering statistics. Within our city limits, well trained Crossing Guards are creating a legacy of safety. School Crossing Guard Superintendent Cherise Asberry reports a 100% ACCIDENT FREE SAFETY RECORD for The City of Miami Gardens. We’re proud to recognize City of
Miami Gardens crossing guards and say THANK YOU for the dedicated service! For more information on the Crossing Guard program and how you can get involved contact Cherise Asberry at casberry@miamigardens-fl.gov
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City of Miami Gardens False Alarm Reduction Program FAQ’s Who do I contact if I have questions? If you have access to the Internet visit www.crywolf.us/oss/miamigardensfl/ click on one of the following (3) options for additional information: New Accounts: apply for a permit on-line using a credit card Current Accounts: sign in site for registered alarm holders to view their account Prevention: to view the City of Miami Gardens Alarm Ordinance or review procedures By Telephone for billing questions, contact 877-665-2980, Monday–Friday from 9:00 am–5:00 pm. For permit questions, contact 305-474-1516, Monday – Thursday 7:00 am – 5:00 pm. Who is required to have an alarm permit? Everyone operating a burglar alarm system inside the City of Miami Gardens limits is required to register their alarm system except for Government buildings. How do I register my alarm system? If you have access to the Internet visit www.crywolf.us/oss/miamigardensfl/ click the “New Accounts” icon and complete the online registration form. Include the complete alarm address, a complete billing address, emergency contact information including cell phone numbers, copy of the final inspection and the alarm company information. In Person visit the Miami Gardens Police Department Records Unit, 1020 NW 163 Drive, Miami Gardens, from 7:30 am to 5:30 pm Monday-Friday, except Holidays. Bring the complete alarm address, a complete billing address, emergency contact information including cell phone numbers, copy of the final inspection, and the alarm company information. Allow (5) days for processing. By Mail visit the Miami Gardens Police Department Records Unit, 1020 NW 163 Drive, Miami Gardens, from 7:30 am to 5:30 pm Monday-Friday, except Holidays and pick up an application or visit www.crywolf.us/oss/miamigardensfl/ and print out an application. Mail the completed application, with a $37 check payable to the City of Miami Gardens to Miami Gardens FAP, 1020 NW 163 Drive, Miami Gardens, FL 33169. Include your complete alarm address, a complete billing address, emergency contact information including cell phone numbers, copy of the final inspection, and the alarm company information. Allow (5) days for processing. What is the cost of an alarm permit registration? There is an initial $37.00 alarm permit registration fee for Residential or Commercial Properties. Permits are valid for (1) year and must be posted near the alarm panel. Permits are automatically renewed each year at no cost if the owner did not have any false alarms. There is a renewal fee of $15.00 if the alarm owner had 1 or more false alarms during the previous 365 day period. Do I need to get a building permit to install a new alarm? Yes. The alarm company that is installing the alarm must request a building permit. After the alarm has been installed, the Building Department will come to your location and complete a final inspection and sign off on the permit. When you go to get your alarm permit you must bring a copy of the final inspection. Contact the Building Department at 305622-8029 for additional information. What happens if I have a false alarm and fail to pay the renewal fee? If the $15.00 alarm permit renewal fee is not paid by the due date, the alarm permit becomes invalid and the alarm is considered to be unregistered. The owner will not receive a new permit and must pay the initial $37.00 alarm permit registration fee to receive a new alarm permit. Are false burglar alarms a problem? The Miami Gardens Police Department is tasked with prevention of criminal activity and response to public safety calls within the City of Miami Gardens. During 2010, Miami Gardens Police Officers responded to over 3,100 false alarms, which placed a significant burden on resources. So far, in the first quarter of 2011, the Department has responded to 834 false alarm calls. Responding to false alarm calls reduces the hours of patrol time and obligates two officers who would otherwise be dedicated to crime prevention. In response to the high number of false alarm calls, on April 27, 2011 the City of Miami Gardens entered into an agreement with CryWolf False Alarm Solutions. CryWolf is a third party contractor that will administer this program. With the budget issues facing local governments, many cities have turned to outsourcing false alarm services and instituting a revenue sharing program to reduce employee costs in administering the program.
What does the City expect to accomplish by enforcing the false alarm ordinance? The City wants to substantially reduce the number of false alarms officers respond to. This program is necessary due to the burden placed on the police department in responding to false alarms. Studies have shown that enacting a structured program with escalating fines reduces the number of false alarm calls and as a byproduct allows police officers to be available to respond to other calls for service. What if my alarm is activated and is determined to be false? The Alarm Owner will receive a Notice by mail stating the date and time that an alarm activation was received by the Miami Gardens Police Department. Alarm Owners will receive an invoice based on the chart below: For a registered account, there is no charge for the first or second false alarm activation within a 365 day period. For accounts that are unregistered at the time of a false alarm a civil penalty, in addition to any false alarm fines incurred and the $37.00 registration fee, will be charged for any false alarm activation within a 365 day period. How much will I be charged? False Alarm Count 1 False Alarm 2 False Alarms 3 and 4 False Alarms 5 and 6 False Alarms 7 to 10 False Alarms 11 Plus False Alarms
False Alarm Fine 0 0 $50 $100 $200 $500
Additional Unregistered Alarm Civil Penalty $50 $100 $250 $500 $500 $500
Will I be charged for alarm activations that are not false? No, you will never be charged for a burglar alarm activation that is not false. This ordinance allows charges for false alarms only. Who determines the fee amount for false alarms? The Miami Gardens City Council approved the Alarm Ordinance and the Revenue Manual that outlines the fee structure for burglar alarm permits and false burglar alarms. If I receive a Notice, how do I pay? Pay Online with a credit card by logging onto www.crywolf.us/oss/miamigardensfl/. Click the Current Accounts icon and enter your account number and password. If you have not previously logged on this website, click the New Alarm User icon and register for online access. Pay by Mail by including a copy of the Notice and write the Notice number on your check or money order. Mail your check or money order (NO CASH) payable to the City of Miami Gardens Alarm Reduction Program, PO Box 864714, Orlando, Florida 32886-4714. Allow (10) days for processing. What happens if I do not pay the fees and/or fines? The City of Miami Gardens Police Department will issue a citation to the alarm holder and the owner of the property for not complying with the City of Miami Gardens ordinance. Additionally, the City of Miami Gardens may seek other legal resolutions such as property liens. I received duplicate alarm invoices at my address; what can I do? If you received a duplicate alarm invoice, please contact us at (877) 665-2980, Monday through Friday from 9 am to 5 pm so we can delete the incorrect invoice(s). Do I have to register my car or fire alarm? Car alarms do not need to be registered and fire alarms are registered with the MiamiDade Fire Rescue Department. For further information regarding fire alarms, visit www.miamidade.gov/mdfr or contact 786¬331-5000, Mon–Friday from 9:00 am–5:00 pm. How can I help prevent false alarms? Make sure that you immediately report your false alarm to your alarm company so they can cancel with police dispatch prior to police arrival. Ensure that everyone in your household or business has been properly trained on your alarm system. Make sure your alarm system is in good working order and inspected periodically by your alarm company. Who can I call if I have additional questions or comments? For billing questions, contact 877-665-2980, Monday–Friday from 9:00 am–5:00 pm. For permit questions, contact 305-474-1516, Mon–Thursday from 7:00 am–5:00 pm. Visit www.crywolf.us/oss/miamigardensfl/
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Jazz in the Garden
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“Don’t Snitch”? If Not You, Then Who? BY MAJOR ANTHONY J. CHAPMAN On December 16, 2007 the Miami Gardens Police Department became responsible for patrolling the streets of the City of Miami Gardens. What a proud moment in my life to be one of the “First 150”. Since that date, the Department has formed a bond with the community that has enabled us to reduce part one crimes over 40%!! An amazing achievement that we could not have obtained without community partnerships and hard work by your police department. Since our inception as a police department one crime has been a constant newsworthy event. Homicide, the worst crime that impacts families for the rest of their lives. You may ask what the police department is doing to deal with this violent crime? I can tell you that in a vast majority of Miami Gardens homicide cases we can tell you who was involved and why it happened. Unfortunately, that circumstantial evidence will only take us so far when presenting a case to the Miami Dade State Attorney’s Office. More often than not, the stumbling block for the Miami Gardens Police Department in investigating homicides is
the “No Snitch” credo that is prevalent in our great City. Obviously many things go into someone deciding not to come forward and speak about what they observed, were told, or heard. Fear is a strong emotion that is a harsh reality that I’m sure impacts some people from coming forward. Fear is something that we need to overcome as a community to create a safer environment for our children and grandchildren to prosper. Failing to act on knowledge of any crime perpetuates the criminal behavior. I implore our citizens to look in the mirror and imagine the suffering a family must undergo when they have lost a loved one. I further implore you to imagine if it was you and your family. Often, we fail to realize the overwhelming effects of violence until it has hit too close to home. It can happen to me, you, or your neighbor. Failing to come forward in a way is tacit approval of the violent behavior that some members of our community perpetrate. Let’s begin today in making our community safer. Let’s put the bad element on notice. Let our actions and words speak loudly that we are not going to tolerate violence any longer. I ask you again, “If not you, then who?”
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The City of Miami Gardens Councilman Dr. Erhabor Ighodaro recognizes the need for water safety for everyone, especially the youngest members of our community. “Quality of life issues and the safety of our children and residents are great concerns for me. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), drowning is the leading cause of injury or death for young children ages 1 to 4 and the fifth leading cause of unintentional injury or death for people of all ages.” Taking these statistics and concerns into consideration, Councilman Ighodaro presented the issue of Water Safety to the full council, thus resulting in efforts to create a COMMUNITY WATER SAFETY PROGRAM. It will be a day of fun, learning and most importantly – EDUCATION OF WATER SAFETY!
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New Chapters: Embarking Together BY JULIA YARBOUGH Public Relations Specialist City of Miami Gardens As The City of Miami Gardens celebrates its ten year anniversary; exciting years full of growth, change, experience and evolution from a newborn crawling, to a toddler “toddling” to a young child walking, this is perhaps a fitting time to talk about how much our lives are like novels. A compilation of stories made up of characters, constantly changing experiences and moments when we turn the pages, not knowing how the story will unfold. My name is Julia Yarbough and I am not only turning pages, but I decided to pick up an entirely new book to find out what is written in the chapters. You may remember me as one of South Florida’s news anchors/reporters; coming into your homes for years from the studios of WTVJ-NBC6. After a full and exciting 22 year career as a broadcast journalist, in the fall of 2009 I made the unconventional decision to step away from my position to simply – take a break. Sounds crazy to most folks, but I have an unshakable faith that everything works out exactly how it is supposed to. I’ve spent the past three years travelling, exploring various career interests and dabbling in all the professional fields I always wondered about but never had the opportunity to pursue. I created a nationally recognized blog, received my certification as a personal fitness trainer, worked behind the scenes shooting commercials and movies, produced my own short documentary and most importantly, took down time for myself to enjoy my family and friends. But like any good book, eventually the story comes to a close. The reader then has to find another novel to dive into. You might say I’m doing the same thing, except with life and the title of the new book is
The City of Miami Gardens. I am excited and proud to announce I have joined the dedicated members of the family of the City as the Press Relations Specialist. As a professional story-teller I believe that everyone, every business, every organization and agency has a story; a story that can and should be told. I’m going to help The City of Miami Gardens do just that. See, I know there is so much to this city that no one ever knows about, hears about or sees. All the great educators, students, parents, business owners, environmentalists and visionaries are right here in our back yards and sharing those stories will help us take The City of Miami Gardens to the next level. Our COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER is called community for a reason – we want to highlight and feature YOU! Let’s show South Florida and the world what we’re made of! At just ten years old, The City of Miami Gardens has made huge strides and we’re just getting started. Now you can help us and be a part of the next wave of progress! Do you have a story you think should be told? Are you an aspiring writer looking to capture the pulse of our community? Well then…we want to hear from you! Send us your ideas, your upcoming events, your thoughts and concerns of what stories and issues you want to see covered. We can’t promise we’ll focus on every item that comes in, but it’s a new start – a new chapter. Keep turning the pages; keep reading – help me and the team here at City Hall make The City of Miami Gardens into one of the BEST novels ever written! Julia Yarbough is an Emmy-Award winning journalist starting a new chapter; partnering with The City of Miami Gardens as Press Relations Specialist. Julia will be a frequent contributor to the Community Newspapers and responsible for helping to promote The City of Miami Gardens, its citizens, businesses and success stories to a broader audience. Have ideas? Julia can be reached at jyarbough@miamigardens-fl.gov
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