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HomeMy WebLinkAboutSubmittal-Public Comments Submitted Online for the March 24, 2022 Special City Commission MeetingSpecial Commission Report (Final) Special Commission Meeting Public Comment - March 24, 2022 March 25, 2022, 1:21 a.m. EST Public Comment motero@miamigov.com First Name Last Name Street Address Agenda Item Public Comment David Collins A CLEAR VIOLATION OF THE CONSTITUTION OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA Section 21 of Florida's Constitution is titled "Standards for establishing legislative district boundaries." Its meaning has black and white clarity. The Florida Constitution sends a clear analogous message to the Miami City Commission. In its very first lines, it describes the level of illegality the City of Miami Commission may cross on Thursday, March 24 as it votes on re- districting Miami: "No apportionment plan or district shall be drawn with the intent to favor or disfavor a political party or an incumbent, and districts shall NOT be drawn with the intent to favor or disfavor a political party or an INCUMBENT.." (Emphasis added) In short, this proposed redistricting favor to Carollo is definitely 100% against the spirit of the law. When Carollo "won" his Little Havana Commission seat, his opponent 3230 GIFFORD Discussion — Alfie Leon took him to court saying he had not been LN Redistricting living in his district when he ran for office. The judge indicated that, yes, Carollo did sleep in a rented apartment in Little Havana during the election, but spent his days outside of the district in his Coconut Grove home. The judge ruled in favor of Carollo. One of the guys congratulating Carollo in the courtroom that day was Commissioner Diaz de la Portilla. Now, Carollo and Diaz de la Portilla can both vote to approve that the exact same part of Coconut Grove can be moved and magically redistricted into Carollo's district as a personal favor. Hallelujah, he can move across U.S. into the house he still owns in the Grove. Ain't life wonderful for a Commissioner with Benefits? Diaz de la Portilla clearly understands he is violating the explicit spirit of the law if he votes for this redistricting Benefit-- he was the Leader of the Republican Partly in the State Senate in the same year it adopted this precisely stated Section 21 of 11774 Submittal -Public Comments Submitted Online for the March 24, 2022 Special City Commission Meeting Tina -Gaye Luz Mel the Florida Constitution in 2010. That's the part that says you can't do favors for incumbents under the guise of redistricting. The MIAMI HERALD made this potential illegal reality painfully clear in its March 12 Editorial, "Carollo stands to benefit the most from the new maps... Under the new boundaries, the district juts out to cover Carollo's house. We don't think that's a coincidence. The city should exhaust all its options to keep the Grove intact." Enough said. #OneGrove Public Comment 3/24/2022 In 1999 HBO Special (Bigger & Blacker) Chris Rock roused: There isn't a White man that would change places with him, and he's rich! That's how good it is to be White, or White adjacent. At last meeting March 11th a councilman remarked about the "race card" and not seeing race. Words are important, let's review a few. #RACISM is extreme, it's psychologically and economically systemic. #DISCRIMINATION is subjective and situationally intentional. #BIAS is general, can be subtle, obtuse, yet deep seated and mute even, until it plays out, in shockingly dark ways unbeknownst prior to 1871 NW circumstance. For council members to assert that South River racism isn't at play is obtuse. The all around bias of Discussion — Bernard Drive Unit this redistricting is undeniable. The fact that 1901 Miami, FL Redistricting meetings have been extended and in secret and so 33125 far as to suppress public comment and make it pre- recorded is discriminatory. One key reason for this redistricting is to quell the voice of an active Black community and have the population increase electoral votes for politicians with the latitude to marginalize their interests. Tulsa Oklahoma 1921 Black Wall Street, Wilmington North Carolina 1898, Railroad Shop Colored Addition Miami 1947 — it's quite clear that this redistricting is a modern day attempt. The race card is most certainly being played as they are no attempts to divide Surfside, Bal Harbour, or Brickell. There is an inextricable link between between race, property, and voting. Keep Coconut Grove Together #OneGrove 1959 Secoffee Adamantly opposed to this inconceivable attempt at Davila street Miami Discussion — dividing the grove. Moreover to be represented by FI 33133 Redistricting the most undesirable miami representative Mr Carollo Alternative district boundaries could preserve Miami's existing neighborhoods and reunite previously split neighborhoods. During the District Meinhardt 3075 Virginia Discussion — 2's townhall meeting[1], the City's consultant, St Redistricting Miguel DeGrandy, made clear repeatedly that dividing Coconut Grove and not reuniting previously split neighborhoods like Shenandoah or Flagami was Anne Harold Sydney purely a political decision. Many other better alternatives were available to the commissioners. Miami -Dade Supervisor of Elections, Christina White, on Friday 2/25 clearly stated there is not a "hard and fast deadline" for redistricting. Redistricting "could easily wait until next year and any penalty would be well worth it".[2] The March 11 deadline pursued by Miami's city commissioners is solely a political decision, one they are accelerating faster than a chain saw through a hardwood tree in Coconut Grove. The rapid pace of development throughout Miami demands that each commissioner focus on the coordinated preservation of core services for each of their neighborhoods (e.g., access to food, voting, transportation). The commission's proposals compound previous redistricting errors with the Coconut Grove division being the most egregious -- separating both food and voter access between districts. Stop the redistricting now. Use all the information available to carefully plan, coordinate and communicate the best boundaries possible so that Miami can prepare robustly for an uncertain future. [1] District 2 Townhall meeting, City Hall, Monday 2/28/22 [2] Interview with Rebecca Wakefield, District 7 chief of staff, 2/25/22 Although unable to attend today's Special Commission meeting, I want to add my voice to those of my neighbors who urge you to keep this district whole. The history, shared community values, and vision for the future are the strongest 3276 Gifford Discussion — arguments to keep Coconut Grove one. We are all Thompson Grovites. We love our colorful past and we Lane Redistricting celebrate our village's growth. Though the Commission must make adjustments to City districts in response to population growth, that growth is primarily in other neighborhoods. Coconut Grove should not pay the penalty. Keep Coconut Grove one. As a lifelong resident of the city of Miami and of Coconut Grove, I am strongly opposed to the current proposal of dividing Coconut Grove's area 2545 Andros Discussion — among multiple city districts. Our village Ryan community has always been a unique section of Ave Redistricting Miami and should remain unified under one district and one commissioner just as it has for many, many years. Please listen to your constituents and do not attempt to split up the Grove. 3 GROVE ISLE As a long-time resident of Coconut Grove, I am Carpel DR APT 310 Discussion — opposed to dividing our historical community. If Apartment 310 Redistricting there are other ways to carve up territory, why are the commissioners not listening to the constituents Alfredo Joyce Michael GAVIN Julio Robin 3092 Lime Cardona Court Miami. Florida, 33133 Geiger 61 Samana Drive Coconut Grove, FI 33133 Discussion — Redistricting Discussion — Redistricting Hornyak 3050 Lime Ct Discussion — Redistricting HEALE Roque Parker 3871 Crawford Avenue 3047 Matilda Street 2523 Lincoln Ave. Miami, FL 33133 Discussion — Redistricting Discussion — Redistricting Discussion — Redistricting and advancing alternative options? The answer must be that they don't represent the interests of the voters but only seek to benefit themselves. As a longtime of Coconut Grove, I strongly urge all commissioners to consider the importance that community means to all of us in this area of the city of Miami. Miami has been and I hope will remain a city of neighborhoods. Keeping Coconut Grove as one entity is a key step in this process to form a true city for the long term. I urge you all to vote to keep the Grove together. It is so easy: all you have to do is leave it the way it has always been.... Simple, isn't it? I urge you to let the Grove be. Thank you. As a proud Coconut Grove resident, I strongly support a OneGrove and do believe it is NOT necessary to split Coconut Grove into different districts. There are obviously several alternatives to the redistricting scenario which will keep Coconut Grove together. We are the oldest neighborhood in Miami and wish to continue to be a strong, one voice of Grovites. As a resident of Coconut Grove for 43 years, I adamantly oppose any redistricting plan that splits our community apart. Coconut Grove is the most historic community in the City of Miami, and there is a sense of civic pride and community that no other part of Miami can match. What is most outrageous about the plans submitted so far is that they are totally unnecessary and without justification other than a not -so -thinly veiled power grab. If the Commission feels District 2 has grown too large (and too powerful), that can be addressed by changes in other parts of the City that do not have the history and cohesive character of Coconut Grove. As a resident of Coconut Grove who has lived here for over 10 years, I find it concerning that the Miami City Commission wants to break the plans to split our area and put parts of it in different districts. Coconut Grove is a unique and historic area and I would urge you to look for other alternatives when doing redistricting. It also seems that there has been a lack of public input into this process and I urge you to get further public input before making this decision that will no doubt make many of your constituents very unhappy. As a single voice, we have spoken - keep the Grove as a single community. Why would you ignore the cries of your citizens? As a third generation Grovite, I'm firmly against the redistricting of Coconut Grove. The redistricting will disrupt the historical neighborhoods and the Alexandra Jenny Escudero 89 Bay heights Discussion — dr Redistricting 4171 Pamona Vargas Ave Miami FL 33133 Jennifer Couch michael Discussion — Redistricting 3129 Jackson Discussion — Ave Redistricting zebold 121 shore dr Discussion — Miami fl 33133 Redistricting integrity of local residential, commercial and civic resources. In addition, it will increase private and public costs dealing with issues. Redistricting provides zero benefits to the Groves' highly taxed citizens. However, it would provide a benefit to Miami; the sensible Grove voters who would now be in Crazy Joe's district would not re-elect him! As residents of Bay heights for the last 19 years we opposed to be separated from the Grove, where we would like to continue with the right to vote with our neighbors that have our same interest and we should continue to be together as the great community that we have been, nobody has the right to separate a community that work together for the same interest. As should be clear from the outpouring of opposition about dividing the Grove, but whichever Commissioner ends up with a piece of the Grove though the redistricting process will be hugely unpopular with his new constituents. Some of you have been sitting pretty in your chairs for multiple terms. The politically -active Grove will work to ensure that you are not so comfortably re-elected next time. Choose a different area to redistrict! Coconut Grove is a small, close-knit community with lots of character and small businesses to protect. Dividing the grove between other commissioners is not in the best interest of Coconut Grove. It is in the best interests of politicians. We will not go quietly and we are all paying attention to the vote on Thursday. Please, do the right thing and find another area to redo strict that makes more sense. OR how about adding commissioners if Miami has grown so much. That's an idea that hasn't been considered. Coconut Grove is a Community of Interest, whether it be the West Grove or the North Grove where Vizcaya and Bay heights are located. As a Community of Interest, it must be kept intact to preserve the cores of its district and respect its boundaries. With that said, please take note of the official boundaries of the neighborhood known as Coconut Grove and try to keep this community as one district. Despite Mr. DeGrandy's incorrect comments at the last meeting, the Northernmost portion of Coconut Grove begins at the intersection US-1 and South Miami Ave (by Rickenbacker causeway) and continues South, South East of US-1 until reaching SW 42 Ave. Redistricting parts of the Grove, in order to rebalance the overpopulation of District 2, makes zero sense due to its low density. Mel Meinhardt Lucian Ferster 3075 Virginia Discussion — St Redistricting 4038 Crawford Discussion — Avenue Redistricting However, redistricting a small portion of West Brickell (which is already partially located within district 3) makes more sense as the density of one single block could account for & be similarly equal in population size and demographics to what you intend to achieve by moving Natoma Manors and Bay Heights out of District 2. Please note that the Northernmost Grove is primarily zoned: T3-R which is 1 single-family home per parcel. As opposed to West Brickell, which is primarily zoned T6-36B-O which allows each building to be built up to 36 stories (at least). So let's look to the future and draw new districts based on where the population is growing, which is in the Brickell and Downtown core. LISTEN TO THE PEOPLE - Please follow the numbers and the demographics. Keep Bay Heights connected to its history as part of Vizcaya (Bay heights was Vizcaya's farm village). Keep Northern Ramson Everglades Campus within the Grove (as it has been since day one). **One Grove, One District, One Commissioner** Commissioners, Use this opportunity to: - restore split neighborhoods under single commissioners - act for Miami's future - recognize the changing density and demographics of Miami's neighborhoods - avoid the appearance of self - dealing and unethical behavior - take the high road Commissioners: Do not redistrict Coconut Grove. I live in Coconut Grove and have lived here since 1983. What follows is my argument to you in support of NOT redistricting Coconut Grove: 1) Guidelines for redistricting call for retention of existing communities. That fundamental guideline should be followed by the Commission. 2) The Commission has consistently failed to demonstrate why it is necessary to divide Coconut Grove rather than implementing some other, less intrusive redistricting plan. 3) Coconut Grove residents have repeatedly articulated and demonstrated that they are unanimously opposed to redistricting the community. 4) Coconut Grove's Commissioner, Ken Russell, has forcefully and consistently opposed redistricting our community. Three of the four remaining City Commissioners have refused to respectfully hear Commissioner Russell's logical and fact -based arguments. 5) The redistricting of Coconut Grove delegitimates the integrity of the Miami Commission for the following reasons: a) The redistricting of Coconut Grove presents the appearance of cynical gerrymandering, diluting the voting potential of a politically engaged and democratic -leaning community. b) The Rachel Pam Jennifer luisa removal of African -American citizens from the current district and placing them within the bounds of heavily Hispanic majority districts produces the appearance of and is the functional equivalent of race -based voter manipulation and disenfranchisement. c) The nagging issue avering that one City Commissioner is advocating redistricting for his own gain will cause irreparable damage the Commission. All future rulings and actions will be opened to legitimate questions of the Miami Commission's integrity, honesty, and the democratic representation of Miami's residents. Redistricting Coconut Grove is an ill-conceived, bad idea. Don't do it. Seek other remedies. Respectfully, Lucian E. Ferster Commissioners: As a former resident of Coconut Grove, and now a resident of district 3, I was pleased to see that the new redistricting proposal keeps all of Coconut Grove together. I also want to 1818 SW 1ST thank my Commissioner for abstaining from voting Discussion — Prestipino AVE Miami, FL in the last meeting, I think that was a wise decision 33129 Redistricting that I hope he chooses to continue in order to avoid conflict of interest. I ask that as you all work to resolve final issues with the new proposal in this final session that you continue to keep Coconut Grove in one district. Thank you. DO NOT BREAK UP The GROVE!!! Three generations of my family built, lived & worked in the Grove. I 2903 Virginia Discussion — would be in another district if you don't keep the Braga Grove together. Commissioner Russell gave another St. Redistricting alternative plan to keep the Grove as One. I've lived in the Grove for over 30yrs & would love to keep being in the Grove District. DO NOT split up Coconut Grove. This is hurtful to the black community, as many residents have Couch 3129 Jackson Discussion — attested to! It divides the interests of Coconut Ave Redistricting Grove in a way that will leave us vulnerable and unable to protect this beautiful, historic community. Dear City of Miami Commissioners & Miami Residents On behalf of my family and neighbors, I am pleading with you to avoid the impending dismemberment of our communities via the 121 shore dr W proposed redrawing of districts. I understand Discussion — rebalancing of populations is necessary but I am a pena Miami FL Redistricting firm believer that no community should be broken 33133 up into 2 or 3 districts unnecessarily. As informed members of our community, you have been privy to firsthand knowledge and seen the negative effects this has on neighborhoods AND WITH LITTLE TO NO BENEFIT to show. In fact, this should only be done 3940 Main Highway Anthony Parrish Coconut Grove, FL. 33133 as a last resort when no other options exist (which is not the case this time around). Commissioner Russell recently presented a viable plan that keeps The Grove (a historic community) together as one district while allowing for the rebalancing of the population as stipulated. Coconut Grove which begins at the intersection of US-1, and South Miami Ave (per the sign that Says Welcome To Coconut Grove, next to the bus stop at 2800 South Miami Ave) is a proud and cohesive community and voting bloc; and dismemberment of a historic community dating back to 1825 for short-sighted political reasons, is not only sad but insensitive and disgusting. Ask yourself how do you want your time as a Miami Commissioner to be remembered? THIS IS NOT A VOTE THAT PEOPLE NOR THE CITY OF MIAMI WILL FORGET. If you are willing to dismember Coconut Grove which is the oldest permanent settlement in Miami -Dade, what does that say about our other less represented communities??? Dividing the Grove in to 2 or 3 districts will be detrimental to its preservation and progress. Please do the right thing, and vote to keep our communities intact. THANK YOU. Dear Commissioners: On March 24, 2022 you have before you a momentous decision affecting all of the citizens of Miami, not just those residing in Coconut Grove. You get to decide whether Miami's many and varied neighborhoods shall be protected and preserved, or continue to be divided and demoralized. The intent of the Federal Voting Rights Act mandates redistricting to preserve equal representation for all citizens by population. This can be done, as your consultant Miguel de Grandy has testified, without breaking up existing neighborhoods even though that has been resorted to in the past. You can preserve "the Black seat" on Discussion — the Commission without attacking Coconut Grove's Redistricting historic boundary. When you divide neighborhoods, the people in those neighborhoods begin to feel disenfranchised and voter apathy sets in. As proof of this, all one has to do is look at voting records in local elections where voter participation has dropped under 15% in all Miami districts —EXCEPT FOR DISTRICT 2. Coconut Grove, North, South, Center and West, lies south and east of US 1 in District 2. The residents of Historic Village West Coconut Grove, which has always been predominantly Black, have unanimously expressed their desire to remain in District 2. Along with them, another 2000 or more citizens have said the same thing in the petition submitted into the public Felipe Mari Frances Jared Echeverria Lovo Maclntyre Johnson MIRIAM WEDDERBURN 2645 sw 17th ave Miami fl 33133 3101 Hibiscus Street 409 VISCAYA AVE 255 SW 11th St, Apt. 1302, Miami, FL 33130 Discussion — Redistricting Discussion — Redistricting Discussion — Redistricting Discussion — Redistricting ELIZABETH Discussion — STREET Redistricting record at the last meeting: DO NOT DIVIDE COCONUT GROVE INTO MULTIPLE DISTRICTS. You know what the will of the people is, and you have sworn to respect that will as their elected representatives. Please do not betray that. Do the right thing. Keep US 1 as Coconut Grove's boundary as it has been for the past century. Sincerely, Anthony R. Parrish, Jr. 3940 Main Highway Coconut Grove, FI. 33133 305-588-5209 aparrish@windandrain.com Dear commissioners It has been evident in the previous sessions how not a single resident is in favor of the proposed redistribution of the Grove. It has also been evident how commissioner Russell's option solves the population growth issue and satisfy the residents needs to keep the grove together. It has also been evident how the proposed mapping personally favors commissioner Carrollo, and how embarrassing this situation is that in the last public meeting he utilized his time to attack Russell instead of addressing the people's needs. Keeping the grove together simply makes sense from a historical point of view, from an efficient perspective to address the community concerns (not diluting the neighborhood, and the law not allowing the 3 commissioners to be present in a meeting at once) and listening to the residents who are the very same people you are supposed to represent and really work for. Now we are a day from the final vote and there is a rare constrain set stating that no input from the residents is needed and public will not be allowed. Let us hope the commissioners have listened to the community and leave out politics and personal gains, voting to keep the Grove together as it simply makes the most sense. Dividing Coconut Grove is a horrible mistake that would further drain the resources of the area. Virrick park for instance needs a new pool that keeps being kicked down the road be of our tax dollars going elsewhere. we are the only area in the City of Miami without access to a public pool. Do not break up neighborhoods. Leave the Grove alone. Equitable, fair maps are essential for all residents of Coconut Grove to have their voices heard heard equally. I urge the commissioners to keep the Grove together. Greetings Chairwoman King and Commissioners: Coconut Grove, belongs in one district, and the border should be US-1. Keeping Coconut Grove in one district, is not only feasible as has been noted by the City's redistricting consultant, and evidenced by alternative redistricting maps, but it is also, as you have heard on several occasions, the plea of many of the residents of Coconut Grove. Know that this righteous plea to keep Coconut Grove in one district is not to offend any Commissioner or to question their ability to serve the needs of the residents of Coconut Grove with integrity and diligence, but it is to emphatically make clear that, to divide the Coconut Grove community, a unique community of interest with a rich history, would be to divide the core of the City of Miami. Therefore, I implore you to heed the petition of Coconut Grove residents and others to keep Coconut Grove in one District —District 2. Respectfully, Miriam Wedderburn Grovites from all corners have come together, kept 2496 Inagua together, and are working together for the best Discussion — grove --one grove. District 2 Commissioner Ken Wagner Avenue Miami, Redistricting Russell represents us well. There are viable and FL 33133 better ways to approach redistricting. Please open your ears and minds to a better approach. Hello, I am the President of the Bay Heights Improvement Assoc., which represents of the home and land owners of the Bay Heights neighborhood in the North Grove. Our association board of directors has unanimously adopted a resolution in support of maintaining a cohesive, contiguously representative district 2. Our resolution text follows: Resolution of the Board of Directors At a meeting of the board of directors of the Bay Heights Improvement Association on March 17, 2022, the following resolution was proposed and approved by the board: RESOLVED: WHEREAS the mission of the board includes the responsibility to "represent 240 Shore Dr Discussion — residents of Bay Heights in dealings with the city of Noyes Miami, Dade County, and other third parties as may East Redistricting be in the best interests of the residents" and, WHEREAS the city of Miami is undergoing a redistricting of its city commission districts, of which Bay Heights is presently represented in District 2, as part of one, contiguous Coconut Grove; and, WHEREAS the community of Bay Heights consists of 189 single family homes and property lots, and is an important part of the fabric of Coconut Grove by its geography, community characteristics and unique qualities; and, WHEREAS the residents of Bay Heights believe that our individual and community interests are best represented as part of one, contiguous Coconut Grove, similar to the present- day boundaries of District 2, so that our residents Donn Stacy Flipse 2025 Secoffeee Discussion — St Redistricting 2834 Trade Cowan Avenue Miami FL 33133 Discussion — Redistricting may continue to: - Protect the Grove's historic, unified neighborhoods and civic groups. - Keep our elected offices accountable to residents. - Not dilute citizens' voices and votes by splitting Coconut Grove amongst other districts. - Preserve our community diversity. - Prevent physically severing the historic Coconut Grove from north to south, and; WHEREAS the board of directors believes that there are many district boundary alternatives that will keep Coconut Grove intact as one, unified representative district. THEREFORE, be it RESOLVED that the Bay Heights Improvement Association, on behalf of its residents and community, submits for the public record its commitment and desire to remain united and unified with our Coconut Grove neighbors as "One Grove". I certify that the above is a true and correct copy of the resolution that was duly adopted at a meeting of the board of directors. Jeff Noyes, President Bay Heights Improvement Association, Inc. March 17, 2022 Hello. I am a longtime Coconut Grove resident. I vote, and I am strongly against cutting up my neighborhood into different districts. We are one, united, Coconut Grove. Thank you Donn I am a new resident of Coconut Grove. I purchased a home in this area because of the strong sense of community that exists here and the decades of history represented in the name Coconut Grove. I strongly oppose redistricting options that would divide representation for residents of the Grove among multiple commissioners. Coconut Grove has been known for many years as a unique neighborhood within the City of Miami. I have family members who also live in the Grove and have had the pleasure of getting to know other Grove residents since moving here. All of us want our neighborhood to retain its community character and ambience. Dividing representation for our community among several commissioners will weaken our representation and complicate the process we have to pursue if we wish to raise concerns or issues with the city. I fear it would also undermine the sense of community and neighborhood ambience that Grove residents cherish. I understand that multiple redistricting options have been presented to the city, some of which would not result in the breakup of long established communities like the Grove. I strongly urge commissioners to select from among these options and leave Coconut Grove intact within District 2. Melanie Debbie Illine Patrick Romulo 2825 Jefferson Elder St Miami FL 3313: Dotson Davila Hourani 4205 Lennox Drive, Coconut GRove, FL 33133 3950 poinciana 2235 Lincoln Ave 3032 Matilda Santana St Miami FI 33133 Discussion — Redistricting Discussion — Redistricting Discussion — Redistricting Discussion — Redistricting Discussion — Redistricting I am a resident if the North Grove, and ask that the Grove remain wholly in district 2, please do not separate our neighborhood into 2 or more districts I am a resident of Miami, and I would like to go on record with the following comments regarding the 2022 redistricting map: 1. I support keeping Coconut Grove together as a whole entity in District 2. Coconut Grove residents and advocates have overwhelmingly stated time and again a multitude of reasons for remaining together as a neighborhood. Most important is the cohesiveness needed to amend and enforce the Neighborhood Conservation Districts. Dividing the boundaries between districts will make this important code overlay unworkable and vulnerable. 2. I support Commissioner Carollo in his decision to recused himself in the vote for the final map. Commissioner Carollo's request to abstain from voting on the final redistricting map was the right thing to do for so many reasons. I hope that he unable to change his course and again join the fray. Should this occur, I believe lawsuits will commence. 3. I support the Wharf area remaining in District 5. The removal of the wharf area from District 5 was an oversight and should never have been included in draft maps. It should remain in District 5 to maintain the integrity of the district. Please vote with the ultimate goal and responsibility of representing the views of the residents for whom you serve. I am against splitting up the historic grove I am against the redistricting plan as it would split the Grove into multiple districts, which makes no sense. I am an eleven year resident of Coconut Grove and strongly oppose redistricting options that would divide representation for residents of the Grove among multiple commissioners. Coconut Grove has been known for decades as a unique neighborhood within the City of Miami and the many residents of the Grove that I know want our neighborhood to retain its community character and ambience. Dividing representation for our community among several commissioners will weaken our representation and only complicate the process we have to pursue when we wish to raise concerns or issues with the city. It could also undermine the sense of community and neighborhood ambience that Grove residents cherish. I understand that multiple redistricting options have been presented to the city, some of which would not result in the rebecca Marlene Deborah Joseph Alfredo kyrouac E rve n Vazquez Shea Escudero shawn meyer-steele 2907 jefferson st miami, fl. 33133 3066 Washington St Miami, FL 33133 188 Shore Drive, South Miami, FL 33133 4039 Crawford Ave 43 Samana Dr, Miami, FI 33133 Discussion — Redistricting Discussion — Redistricting Discussion — Redistricting Discussion — Redistricting Discussion — Redistricting 2270 tequesta Discussion — way Redistricting breakup of long established communities like the Grove. I strongly urge commissioners to select one of these options and leave Coconut Grove as one community within District 2. I am opposed to the redistricting map proposed. The grove needs too remain in it's own district. The alternative map that was presented, keeping the Grove together was fine. Please consider what the residents want. That is democracy. I am opposed to the redistricting proposal as initially presented by the Miami Commission. It splits neighborhoods, splits our commercial district - thus our chamber of commerce, the jurisdiction of the BID - affecting commerce and splits off our historic west grove. I endorse One Grove's proposal to unite all neighborhoods in the City of Miami I am totally against coconut grove being segmented under different commissioners And with no vote of the people that it actually affects. We are a single community and need one voice to represent us. This would be highly destructive to a neighborhood with such historical roots. There are different ways to accomplish the same goals without breaking up the Grove into pieces. I am writing to express my opposition to the proposed redistricting of the Coconut Grove area. The Grove is a unique and very different section of the city of Miami and should remain a separate district. I think that those who wish to change this must have undisclosed motives, such as a desire to rezone for high rise buildings and break up the lucrative property tax base, for instance. I have been a resident and property owner in Coconut Grove since 1972. I moved here for precisely the character and ambience that certain people are now trying to change. Those who are for redistricting will be suspected of ulterior motives and the voters will not react kindly. Thank you for your consideration of this matter. I don't understand how it can be proposed to change Bay Heights from Coconut Grove to another district. I feel that this is a total violation of our history in the Grove. I have lived here for 20 years, always defending my belonging to the Grove placing it in value compared to other neighborhoods such as Key Biscayne. More familiar and more authentic. I feel totally betrayed by this proposal. It is a disgrace. I have been a Coconut Grove resident for more than 20 years and am adamantly opposed to the proposed redistricting that will divide the grove up Erich 3032 Matilda Cauller Street Miami FL 33133 into three districts and dilute the effectiveness of this very active community in being able to advocate for itself and electing officials that represent our positions. Perhaps most destructive would be moving the predominantly Black residents of West Grove into a district where they will represent less than 10% of the district and lose their entire voice. This is racial disenfranchisement almost on par with building the expressway through the middle of Overtown. Please stop this hurtful gerrymandering attempt to break up Coconut Grove. I have been a resident of Coconut Grove for more than ten years. I live only six blocks from downtown Coconut Grove where I regularly dine and patronize local businesses. I bike nearly daily throughout Coconut Grove and consider the Grove to be my community, neighborhood and home. I am strongly opposed to any redistricting option that would dissect the Grove and divide representation of my neighborhood among multiple commissioners. The initial plan presented to the commissioners would sever the area I live in from the current Grove district (District 2) and append it to another district, even though I live a few blocks from downtown Grove and spend much of my time there. One of the benefits of single -member districts as opposed to at -large districts is that they ensure geographic representation of residents, especially when districts are drawn along lines that assign established neighborhoods or communities to one Discussion — commissioner (as District 2 currently does). This Redistricting provides constituents with a single, easily identifiable representative, simplifying the process when constituents wish to bring matters before the city that affect their neighborhood. A redistricting plan that divides the Grove among multiple commissioners would complicate the process constituents must pursue in addressing issues with the city that impact their community. Instead of working with one commissioner who is well versed in issues related to their neighborhood, they would be obliged to raise their issues with multiple commissioners, some of whom have less knowledge or concern with the affected area. I fear that redistricting in such a manner would reduce the effectiveness of government for Grove residents and complicate any future dealings with the City of Miami. I also fear the sense of community that currently exists in the Grove would be undermined by dissecting representation for the area, resulting in a waning of the neighborhood ambience that is so meaningful to many Grove residents. Dividing up the Grove among multiple commissioners essentially eliminates the geographic representation benefit that comes with single -member districts. Coconut Grove and the City of Miami would be no better off than if we had at -large districts that do not take into consideration neighborhood or community boundaries. I feel certain we would end up with a city less responsive to the needs and desires of residents if redistricting is done in a manner that dissects long established communities like the Grove. Other redistricting options have been presented to the City of Miami that minimize impacts on established neighborhoods in the city. I strongly encourage commissioners to seriously consider all the options and select one that does not tear apart representation for long established communities like Coconut Grove. I believe this to be right choice for our city and its residents. I have been a resident of Miami since 1976 and I have lived in Coconut Grove all but two of the years since. The sense of community in Coconut Grove is stronger than any other part of Miami, and we are a community that is proud of its Bahamian roots and the Bohemian nature of its people. The redistricting plans considered by the Commission so far have Eric Eimstad 3050 Lime Ct Discussion — been an affront to our community and they Redistricting disregard and disrespect our rich history. Most egregiously, this redistricting is not necessary. It is a solution in search of a problem, and the only benefit it would bring is more power to those Commissioners who slice off parts of our community to enhance their own power base. Leave Coconut Grove alone! ONE GROVE -- ALWAYS! I have been a resident of coconut grove for more than 20 years. This discrimination cannot happen,Why would politicians want to take us out??? Our roots are bonded to this neighborhood 181 Shore Dr Discussion — and we have the right to stay in the district we have Eliana Ruiz always support and have been part of. Viscaya is South Redistricting one of our gems and what will happen if you give up on it?? The other district has much less strict rules to maintain its historic value and who says we'll not end with another high rise in those grounds?? I have lived and owned a home in Coconut Grove 2535 INAGUA since 1974. I love this place and have met so many wonderful people. As a result of this I have been a JOYCE NELSON AV, COCONT Discussion — community activist for 30+ years. My main goals GROVE, FL Redistricting were to protect the tree canopy and save our 33133 historic buildings. Now I am writing you to save the Grove from being split into sections. The City is a big Francoise To m Dimitry Norwood Virgin Chamy Sunny McLean 2500 Abaco avenue, Coconu Grove, FL 33133 3415 Franklin Avenue 2779 SW 22nd Avenue, Coconut Grove, FL 33133 Discussion — Redistricting Discussion — Redistricting Discussion — Redistricting 4066 Malaga Discussion — Ave Redistricting area and there are other ways to redistricting. Perhaps we could have helped with this issue but we were not told till the end. I am very disappointed in our city officials for keeping this a secret till the end leaving us to respond at the last minute. I can only assume you did not want us to know. It appears to me, the Miami Commission has little or no regard for the opinions of the Citizens of Coconut Grove and is only interested in furthering their own personal financial gain. I would consider that a flagrant violation of the law. The purpose of a City Commissioner is to consider and meet the goals of the citizens. I have lived at my current address since 1984 in a historical house built in 1923 in Miami oldest neighborhood Coconut Grove. We are a very tight, involved in civics historical village. We, the citizens of Coconut grove have voiced our strong opinions on how the Grove needs to keep its integrity many times and showed Mr. de Grandy that the redistricting could be done without breaking up our community in 3 districts. Please keep our community intact. An alternative map that meets all the criteria has been presented and the people who live here are satisfied with it. Thank you. I have lived in Coconut Grove since Hurricane Andrew, longer than any other town in my life. Please keep Coconut Grove in one district, many of my neighbors have lived in this neighborhood for multiple generations. Their people settled this community before Miami was Miami. Coconut Grove is unique and historical because of its varied people and long standing relationships. One Grove is what our community has been up until now, please keep it that way. I have lived in the Grove for 30 years. I completely OPPOSE this re -districting scheme. Let the citizen decide or leave the districts exactly as is. I have lived in the Grove for over 40 years. It is a unique place and the people who live here feel strongly about the quality of life lived here. Over the years Grovites have united to fight for the unique character of the Grove - and we continue to do so. We have always been one district with one Commissioner who understands our community. Dividing the Grove among 3 commissioners is purely political and does not serve the Coconut Grove community. Coconut Grove must remain one district with one commissioner! NO to redistricting. Catherine Erin Lilly Joni Karen Maura John Swain Pendlebury Kastenschmidt Lee Goodman Ryan Young Meinhardt 2481 Abaco Ave Coconut Grove, Florida 33133 2235 Lincoln Ave 3251 Coacoochee street 162 SHORE DR S 2925 Virginia st 33133 312 S. Cherry Street Richmond VA 23220 4205 Lennox Dolson Drive, Coconut Grove, Florida Discussion — Redistricting Discussion — Redistricting Discussion — Redistricting Discussion — Redistricting Discussion — Redistricting Discussion — Redistricting Discussion — Redistricting I have lived in the same Grove house for 48 years and live in the Grove.all my life. We have always been one Grove. I am totally against redistricting of our Grove!!!! I oppose any redistricting plans that split Coconut Grove into numerous districts. I oppose breaking up coconut into 3 different districts. I want to remain in district 2. I stand with the residents of Coconut Grove. I live in Bay Heights and want Coconut Grove to remain one district of the City of Miami Commission. There are alternatives to separating out parts of Coconut Grove to achieve redistricting population mandates. Also, the idea of carving out a small area so Joe Corollo's house is in his district is simply corrupt. I support Commissioner Russels alternative redistricting plan. Charlie Munroe showed the map with US 1 as north boundary foe the Grove. Anything other than that should not be considered. As a 50 year resident of Coconut Grove I long for the days when there were NO districts and ALL the commissioners listened to ALL the citizens of MIAMI. Now Miami is a city of fiefdoms. Honor the oldest city in Miami -Dade County and keep us ONE GROVE. I support the position and goals of ONE GROVE on this districting issue. Elected leaders must act in support of their electorate, not on behalf of special interests to weaken voter representation. I support the redistricting proposal submitted by Ken Russell, which keeps the Grove whole at US-1. I also support Commissioner King's request to have the wharf area returned to her district, especially as it involves no movement of people and is just a boundary issue. I applaud Commissioner Reyes for returning part of the West Grove area to Coconut Grove. I oppose any attempt to take the Natoma area and add it to commissioner Carollo's district, especially since that involves having him personally benefit from the change by including his home on Morris lane in the change. I hope he stays true to his word and abstains from voting on the redistricting involving Coconut Grove. I also condemn Commissioner Alex De La Portilla's behavior in past meetings where he has labeled hundreds of people who spoke up to keep the Grove whole, and over 2300 petitioners as 'activists and actors'. His rush to push a vote through on February 25 and March 11 was a clear move to steal the wharf area from Commissioner King, where it had resided before. Mary Maria Marie Luce Fabian Jorge Bolz Freed Suckle Garcia Diaz 3000 Washington St. Miami, FL 33133 3055 Washington Street, Coconut Grove, FI 33133 3941 Crawford avenue 3121 sw 22 ave 3032 Matilda Ramos St Miami FL 33133 Discussion — Redistricting Discussion — Redistricting Discussion — Redistricting Discussion — Redistricting Discussion — Redistricting One Grove + reunite Commissioner King's Wharf area in district five. 'Solutions have been shown that keep the Grove whole and the 'people are satisfied' (Pastor Robinson said it best on March 11, 2020 I understand that for some reason there needs to be a rebalancing/redistricting. I also understand there are many different ways that can successfully address what needs to be changed. I do not understand how it is in the best interests of any community members to split Coconut Grove into so many parts. I believe it is the job of our elected officials to do what is best for all. I can only see my community being disrupted and torn apart. I don't see any positive outcomes from the proposed plan to break apart Coconut Grove. Please consider a redistricting plan that is beneficial to all of Miami. I urge City of Miami Commissioners to please respect the community's wishes and vote to keep all of Coconut Grove In District 2. We are united by our history, our tolerance, our civic pride and need to be represented by one commissioner, not multiple political representatives. Keep us together under ONE GROVE! I want One Grove. Other redistricting boundaries can work. Use them. Keep US-1 as Coconut Grove's district boundary to: -- protect the Grove's historic, unified neighborhoods and civic groups; -- keep elected officials accountable to residents; -- don't dilute citizens' voices and votes among three commissioners; -- preserve Coconut Grove racial diversity; -- don't sever the physical link between North and South Grove; Don't Rush. There is no requirement to redistrict now. -- Take the time to understand, investigate, and discuss. I want to express my opinion about redistricting I wish to express my strong opposition to redistricting options that would divide representation for residents of the Grove among several commissioners. I believe residents of Coconut Grove are better served by having one commissioner to contact concerning issues in our neighborhood. Having to work with three commissioners on issues affecting our community would be cumbersome to say the least. My neighbors and I want to preserve the sense of community that has existed in the Grove for many, many years. I am afraid that sense of community will be lost if issues related to the Grove are divided among several commissioners. I encourage commissioners to select a redistricting option that Joseph Cecilia James Catherine Lata Rebecca Marie Luce C Dunia Juan Luis Gale Susan Hornstein Tavera Kaufman Cathers Thomas Fleisher Suckle Sabga Calisto Patron Silver 66 Bay Heights Drive 2 Grove Isle Dr, B1405 Coconut Grove, FL 33133 3373 poinciana avenue Miami 33133 3161 Indiana St., Coconut Grove, FL 33133 3837 Loquat Ave 5313 Granada Blvd Coral Gables, FL 33146 3941 Crawford Ave Coconut Grove, Miami FL 33133 2903 sw 22 ave Coconut Grove 33133 2831 S Bayshore Drive 4050 Ventura Ave 3400 SW 27 ave Discussion — Redistricting Discussion — Redistricting Discussion — Redistricting Discussion — Redistricting Discussion — Redistricting Discussion — Redistricting Discussion — Redistricting Discussion — Redistricting Discussion — Redistricting Discussion — Redistricting Discussion — Redistricting does not divide long established communities or weaken their representation with the city. If splitting up District 2 is passed, then obviously, Art Acevedo was spot on. If you want a piece of district 2 take it from the Edgewater neighborhood by the Omni. Nobody in the Grove would feel represented by District 4 Manolo Reyes, or District 3 Joe Carollo or District 1 Alex Diaz de la Portilla. They don't understand our community and would be a disservice to many. Even De Grandy doesn't know where the Grove starts and it ends. It's a shame the city hired him. Do the right thing for our community and keep the Grove together. It's time to listen to the voters. This issue has touched a lot of people. One Gove wants it own district I'm a Coconut Grove Resident of 15 years. I OPPOSE redistributing and dividing the community geographically, historically, and politically. I am out of town, otherwise would be expressing my opposition in person. Keep Coconut Grove as one district. Keep Coconut Grove together! In keeping U.S.-1 as Coconut Grove's district boundary, the Grove's historic and unified neighborhoods will be protected, elected officials will be kept accountable to residents, citizen votes will not be diluted among three commissioners, and most importantly the racial diversity of this area will be preserved. We DO NOT want a district split! Keep US-1 as Coconut Grove's district boundary to: - - protect the Grove's historic, unified neighborhoods and civic groups; -- keep elected officials accountable to residents; -- don't dilute citizens' voices and votes among three commissioners; -- preserve Coconut Grove racial diversity; -- don't sever the physical link between North and South Grove; Keep it one grove Keep the cultural heritage of coconut grove together Don't allow it to split in 3 districts Keep the districts as they are! Do not break up our community. Keep the grove as one. Breaking us up to three district is ridiculous. It only pits us against one another instead of having a United voice. This is ridiculous. Stop the nonsense Lynn Fecteau 2542 Swanson Discussion — ave Redistricting John Snyder 3980 Hardie Discussion — Ave Redistricting Lynn fecteau 2542 Swanson, Miami, florida, 33133 (Cell) 970-231-0175 To all commissioners. This coming meeting should be about Redistricting and not your issues with commioner Russell and Anglos. All the commissioners should be looking out for everyone and not just Latinos. Our community deserves better then what you demonstrated at the last meeting. We deserve to keep historic coconut grove together. Listen to the people. Have some respect for your constituents. The way you have acted in the past is no way to treat the people you represent. That goes for ALL the commissioners. Let's get back to talking about redistricting and lets look at commissioner Russell's plan. It's the best plan for the people of coconut grove. The hostility of the commissioners against commissioner Russell is apparent to all of us. Please don't let your issues with commissioner Russell get in the way of the right vote for coconut grove. Do the right thing. Vote for one grove Making decisions is greatly influenced by constraints. Unfortunately the constraints placed on the redistricting of Miami were inappropriate. First: The Miami-21 code emphasizes the importance of neighborhoods in the development of Miami, but the consultant was told to give preserving neighborhoods the very least weight in making redistricting decisions: "2.1.2 Intent The Miami 21 Code is intended to advance the interests of both conservation and development.... a. The conservation goals include: 1. Preserving Neighborhoods, Historical Resources and the natural environment." Thus the foremost Goal of the Miami 21 code was directed by the commission to be given the very least weight in making decisions about redistricting. Currently about ten Miami neighborhoods have been split by previous redistricting exercises. The proposal under consideration by the commission would add Coconut Grove to that list, splitting the oldest Miami neighborhood dating from 1873, between three different districts. According to consultant Miguel DeGrandy Some previously split neighborhoods could be reunified by any of several alternative plans. Suggestions that the commissioners pause to examine better alternatives have been minimized in favor of getting it done fast. Miami -Dade Supervisor of Elections Christine White was cited as saying there was no 'hard and fast' requirement to redistrict quickly; waiting 'would be well worth it'. Particularly if it enabled getting it right. Second: Redistricting is necessitated by population growth of Cindy Snyder 3980 Hardie Discussion — Ave Redistricting the city; Population has increased by 28.8% since 2000, we think these additional citizens deserve representation, and yet the consultant was told by the commissioners not to increase the number of districts. There have been five commissioners since I came to Miami in 1985. Having ever increasing numbers of constituents means that too often the governed are given short shrift. It seems clear that future growth will take place along the shore of Biscayne bay and near the city center, this area deserves adequate representation. Miami charter section A 'Citizens Bill of Rights' (A) This government has been created to protect the governed, not the governing The shortcomings of the constraints placed upon the redistricting process seem to us grievous errors of this commission; which we would like You to reconsider. We would like you to follow the intent of the law: 1. Preserving Neighborhoods, Historical Resources and the natural environment. 2. Protect the governed, not the governing by creating additional districts. We implore you to get it done right even if it cannot be done fast. Making decisions is greatly influenced by constraints. Unfortunately the constraints placed on the redistricting of Miami were inappropriate. First: The Miami-21 code emphasizes the importance of neighborhoods in the development of Miami, but the consultant was told to give preserving neighborhoods the very least weight in making redistricting decisions: "2.1.2 Intent The Miami 21 Code is intended to advance the interests of both conservation and development.... a. The conservation goals include: 1. Preserving Neighborhoods, Historical Resources and the natural environment." Thus the foremost Goal of the Miami 21 code was directed by the commission to be given the very least weight in making decisions about redistricting. Currently about ten Miami neighborhoods have been split by previous redistricting exercises. The proposal under consideration by the commission would add Coconut Grove to that list, splitting the oldest Miami neighborhood dating from 1873, between three different districts. According to consultant Miguel DeGrandy some previously split neighborhoods could be reunified by any of several alternative plans. Suggestions that the commissioners pause to examine better alternatives have been minimized in favor of getting it done fast. Miami -Dade Supervisor of Elections Christine White was cited as saying there was no 'hard and fast' requirement to 3339 Virginia Street #208 Joshua McKinley Coconut Discussion — Grove, FL Redistricting 33133 2542 Swanson Merrill Mersel Avenue Discussion — Coconut grove, Redistricting FL 33133 JOYCE NELSON redistrict quickly; waiting 'would be well worth it'. Particularly if it enabled getting it right. Second: Redistricting is necessitated by population growth of the city; Population has increased by 28.8% since 2000, we think these additional citizens deserve representation, and yet the consultant was told by the commissioners not to increase the number of districts. There have been five commissioners since I came to Miami in 1985. Having ever increasing numbers of constituents means that too often the governed are given short shrift. It seems clear that future growth will take place along the shore of Biscayne Bay and near the city center, this area deserves adequate representation. Miami charter section A 'Citizens Bill of Rights' (A) This government has been created to protect the governed, not the governing The shortcomings of the constraints placed upon the redistricting process seem to us grievous errors of this commission; which we would like You to reconsider. We would like you to follow the intent of the law: 1. Preserving Neighborhoods, Historical Resources and the natural environment. 2. Protect the governed, not the governing by creating additional districts. We implore you to get it done right even if it cannot be done fast. My husband and I have lived at 1700 S. Bayshore 1700 S. Lane for nearly 20 years. We love living in Coconut Nancy Kucera Bayshore Lane Discussion — Grove and are dismayed at the attempt being made #4B Redistricting to redistrict our community. Please DO NOT divide this wonderful community. Not since Miami annexed the Grove on July 7, 1925, has such an egregious abuse of power for self- serving purposes been so easily witnessed... Keep It Together... Because the Grove may be OF Miami, but it is NOT Miami... One Grove, By Jove!! One Grove! Please be advised that I am VEHEMENTLY OPPOSED to any plan that would split the existing historical Coconut Grove voting district into 2-3 sections, 2535 INAGUA thereby diluting our community voice in future AV, COCONUT Discussion — elections. We were here before the City of Miami GROVE, FL Redistricting and have been here for over a century. I would not 33133 support any elected official who votes for this action. Further, I would not support said officials in any future election. Thank you for considering my position. Roberta Rosenberger 2 Grove Isle Discussion — Please be advised: should the commission break NANCY Gary Lourdes Elizabeth Angela Soler Gary Kristina Peter Rachel Mary Rachel MARMESH Person Alea Gibson Brown Gross Stout Dalton Ehrlich Fisher Walsh Cardello Drive #1701, Coconut Grove, FL 33133 2539 Andros Ave 2740 SW 28th Terrace 708 2937 Whitehead Street 4145 El Prado Blvd 24 Pinta Rd 2437 Tequesta Lane 2935 Whitehead Street 243 NE 59th Terr 2950 day Ave 4141 Lybyer Ave, Coconut Grove, FL 33133 Redistricting Discussion — Redistricting Discussion — Redistricting Discussion — Redistricting Discussion — Redistricting Discussion — Redistricting Discussion — Redistricting Discussion — Redistricting Discussion — Redistricting Discussion — Redistricting Discussion — Redistricting 2175 Tigertail Discussion — Avenue Redistricting the Grove into two or three parts -- an idea which I am TOTALLY against -- I will NEVER vote for the commissioner who is given my chunk of the Grove. Promise. Please do not divide the Grove into 3 districts. We need to keep "One Grove." We want to stay unified. Please do not remove my family from the Coconut Grove district. We live on the Grove side of US1. We are a part of the Grove's History. Please make the northern portion of the district into another district. They are not a part of the Grove. Thanks Please do not split the Grove into 3 parts!! Please don't separate the Grove. It will make our lives more difficult and there is no logical reason for it. We are One. Please keep us together Please keep Coconut Grove as ONE. Preserve its history and racial diversity. Many of our neighbors at Bay Heights feel the same. Listen to your voters! Please keep the Grove one district. No Gerrymeandering!!!! Do the right thing....I vote! Please keep the Grove together! My neighbors and I will be directly affected by this and oppose the redistricting whole heartedly. We want to be One Grove, with One Commissioner. Listen to what the residents want, we're tired of having our needs ignored. Please listen to the Grove neighbors. Please respect the wishes of Grove residents and taxpayers who live in District 2. Keep the Grove intact. Please do not carve out blocks and/or neighborhoods from the Grove. Please keep all of North Grove in District 2. Please keep all of the West Grove in District 2. Please listen to your constituents and leave the grove as ONE! Please listen to your constituents. We are One Grove and we do not want to be divided into different districts. We are multicultural but united in our ethos for how we want to live our lives in the most Beautiful part of Miami. We are also tired of and disgusted with the corruption and power grabbing politicians of Miami. Miami Commissioners should be public servants. Instead certain commissioners are embarrassing and responsible for wasting our time AND our money. Carollo and Diaz de la Portilla will be VOTED OUT if they make us part of their districts. Please maintain Coconut Grove as a single commission district. Coconut Grove residents care equally for all parts of our community and work Jenna Sergio Melvin Vazquez Perez Black Elena V Carpenter 3090 lime court Miami fl 33133 125 Shore Dr W 162 Shore Drive S Miami, FI 33133 together to fight injustices, hold the City accountable when necessary and strive for a better tomorrow. Dividing the Grove into multiple districts means each issue must be brought to three different Commissioners in isolation due to Sunshine Laws. How can residents ever receive a straight answer from our governing body if the environment is set up for each one to point their finger at the other? How can consensus even be achieved? It appears that our commissioners are simply finding a way to dilute the voices of a unified, strong, and active group of residents. This is a ten- year decision not to be made lightly. Neighborhoods are not pawns in fighting for political power. We deserve better. We deserve the time and care, as other Cities (Tampa and Atlanta) are doing to find solutions that work. Take the opportunity to even repair those communities already divided by the current district map. Citizens' rights to participate in our government are being made unreasonably difficult if the current map is approved with multiple districts in the Grove. Don't blow this once every ten-year chance to do what is right. Please stop redistributing Coconut Grove there is enough separation as it is we need to work the other way around to unify and be inclusive. Grovites deserve more than for this to be another corrupt project of projects. Please take note that there is more than enough signatures form the residents of the areas of the grove that are being carved out asking to be kept intact. There is really no reasonable excuse to make this change, other than to maybe benefit some commissioner that does not currently live in his representing district. If this ends up being the case in the near future, it will not only be inexcusable but also extremely unethical. Please vote to preserve traditional Coconut Grove in a single district. We are a multicultural village which is functioning very well, thank you. This Redistricting proposal threatens this gem. Worse still, it is blatant gerrymandering to move a section of Coconut Grove which includes a house owned by Commission member Carollo who was elected by another district. This is an underhanded way for Carollo to pretend to live in the district that elected him, when in fact he would be living in a house in a district which didn't elect him. 1660 South Discussion — Please, Commissioners, do the right thing. You know Bayshore Court Redistricting it makes no sense to break up Coconut Grove. Find a Discussion — Redistricting Discussion — Redistricting Discussion — Redistricting Christina Susana Yanelis Allison Maria Joyce Coconut Grove FL 33133 3159 New York Sudduth St, Miami, FI 33133 Discussion — Redistricting Benz 3041 New York Discussion — St Redistricting 58 NE 14 ST Valdes Miami, FL 33132 Cohen Cerda Powell 6815 Edgewater Drive 302 Miami 33133 1216 Asturia Ave 3766 Florida Discussion — Redistricting Discussion — Redistricting Discussion — Redistricting Discussion — plan that serves all of your districts, but not one that destroys our oldest city in Miami, historically speaking. Mr. De Grandy was a part of the Blue Ribbon Committee that districted the city of Miami in the first place, in the late 90s. I was part of that committee as well, appointed by then Mayor Carollo. Redistricting is specifically not intended to break up established neighborhoods, and thus fracture any voice the community may have to preserve its fabric. The mantra of districting, as per law, is ONE MAN ONE VOTE. Our mantra is ONE GROVE, ONE VOICE. Thank you, Elena V. Carpenter Putting in my vote to keep the Grove all in one district. Since this appears the redistricting will go through with out the consent of the constituents, I am curious to hear from the commissioners how they are going to support the neighborhood with a fragmented community? How will you protect the disenfranchised populations while ensuring responsible growth, meaning maintaining the tree canopies, adding relevant retail that supports the local neighborhood, upgrade the parks and deal with the crime and blight as well as building affordable housing and not just million dollar and up properties? What is the plan for district 2, 3 and 4 and what exactly can we expect from your leadership? Thank you for the work everyone at the City of Miami has done to get us to a place where we are seeing the final vote on a new redistricting map. I'm grateful for the discussions that happened on the dais during the last special meeting and I am hopeful that we will keep communities whole and take into account the hundreds of public comment that have been shared at all of the meetings held. I ask that Commissioners keep their word from the last meeting and vote their concious to keep communities together and make the changes in District 2 and District 5 that were discussed during the last meeting. Thank you! The Grove is the oldest part of Mami. Why change it? Stop the Gerrymandering. Only one Commissioner is listening to the people. The community doesn't want the change. The Grove must stay TOGETHER as ONE district — nothing else makes sense. Please vote in this manner at the upcoming commission meeting. Thank you for doing this— the right thing! The Grove should be left the way it is. The focus Luke Grant Anita Katrina Franc Johnnie and Bill Meinhardt Sheehan Glick Morris Pigna McDonald Ave Redistricting should be on putting some sort of rent control in place so that people that are already grove residents can afford to stay and not be pushed out by others coming from different countries and states. The grove should be left alone The commissioners have the opportunity to keep our neighborhoods together and show that democracy works! Let's seem them take bold action to listen to the people and do the right thing. Never has there been a more important time to show democracy is alive and well. Vote to keep the Grove together in the new redistricting map. 3075 VIRGINIA STREET 3741 De Garmo Lane Coconut Grove, FL 33133 3060 New York Street 4130 Lybyer Ave, Coconut Grove, FL 33133 1794 Micanopy AV 2 Grove Isle Dr. #1403 Discussion — Redistricting Discussion — Redistricting Discussion — Redistricting Discussion — Redistricting Discussion — Redistricting Discussion — Redistricting The proposed change is a self-defeating move by the commissioners. You're going to destroy the Grove and no one you move into your district is going to support you! The reasons for breaking the Grove up into three districts are unclear and DO NOT benefit Grove residents. We love our neighborhood and want to keep the feelings and environment as cohesive as possible; such cohesiveness will substantively benefit the quality of life of our residents, and the future of our beloved neighborhood. Please do not come along and change the special dynamics for political or personal ambition. ACT as if it were YOUR neighborhood! Thank you. The redistricting map provided by Miguel De Grandy unnecessarily bifurcates Coconut Grove, Miami's oldest neighborhood. Rather than splitting up neighborhoods farther, this redistricting opportunity should be used to restore neighborhood districts and give the Miami population the most cohesive representation possible. The redistricting plan, like so many political initiatives today, is being rammed down the throats of the majority of the electorate. Do not listen to the voice of the majority at your own political risk. Instead of streamlining the political process, redistricting complicates the process and dilutes the voice of Miami's oldest community. The shameless tactics of the greedy Three Amigos to pad their districts and hinder the voters in the West Grove is nothing short of skunk works. Coconut Grove has proved to be a progressive voting district and these men who plot in the dark, are using age old tactics to divide and conquer. We must stand against thugs who insult their constituents and fail to listen to our OneGrove pleas. Linda Williams 3523 Charles Discussion — There is an alternate map that has been presented Sandra Wallace Theodora Reynold Walter Horwitz Dalton Oberlander Martin Avenue Redistricting and the general public/residents are satisfied with it. Please consider the voices of the community on this issue and provide an alternate map that will not separate the Grove residents, in particular Village West. There is no legal reason to redistrict at this time. So why do it? If the only reason is to allow Corollo's primary residence to reside in his district, the redistrict HIS HOME, and no one else's. Everyone will be happy. Also, why are some Grove constituents moving to Reye's district, and some of Reye's constituents moving to Corolla's? And, if ANY residents need to be moved, it should come from the new construction being built downtown. This is an an absolute disgrace. You have already gone against the will of the Grove for the 'Beautification' bill when 90% of residents didnt want it. The Grove is becoming another Brickell which we don't need. There is absolute zero reason to create 3 districts which would only hurt getting things accomplished. This redistricting is an insult to the intelligence of the general population of Coconut Grove. The Commissioners should remember who elected them and their election was not to service their own private gains. Our district as one (with Ken Russell) Discussion — is functioning perfectly as it is ---so you other Redistricting commissioners need to get "your heads on straight" and leave the Grove as is. Personally I would be much happier if the Grove just left the city of Miami and stood on its own or even combined with Coral Gables. You commissioners should be ashamed of yourselves. To do other than leave the Grove intact negates and/ or dilute all tge hard work Bahamians and Grovites from other places have done to try and keep our lil abode intact.Community means everything.One Bahamas and One Grove with one Discussion — representative.I and others with Groce homeowners Redistricting and Grove Community Action members feel strongly about this.Thank you for your attention.I will contribute to a law suit to fight this no democratic action we gave witnessed by thus Commission if you don't get it right The people have spokenPlease hear them. We are at a time when Coconut Grove absolutely 3940 Utopia needs to preserve its unity. Coconut Grove is a very Ringwald Court Miami FL Discussion — unique place in the US and in the World. Coconut 33133 Redistricting Grove is beauty in all aspects. It must be preserved, defended, cultivated. It must be strong. Its unique features must be considered as a whole - there are 3154 Matilda St 2935 Whitehead Street 3969 Hardie Avenue, Coconut Grove 6201 sw 61 st Discussion — Redistricting Discussion — Redistricting Eliana Andrew Marta li kris h Juan Steve Rose Mel Erin Jeff Ruiz Figel Figel Marchese Olivera Capellini Pujol Meinhardt Clancy Noyes 181 Shore Dr South 2401 Overbrook Miami Fla 33133 2401 Overbrook Miami FL 33133 2542 Swanson Ave 84 Bay Heights Dr. Miami. FL. 33133 3155 Florida Ave 2455 South Bayshore Drive, 33133 3075 Virginia St 3558 Royal Palm avenue 240 Shore Dr East Discussion — Redistricting Discussion — Redistricting Discussion — Redistricting Discussion — Redistricting Discussion — Redistricting Discussion — Redistricting Discussion — Redistricting Discussion — Redistricting Discussion — Redistricting Discussion — Redistricting unfortunately not many places left like that. It is already unbelievable to see the amount of destruction and lack of care that has happened to this unique environment, especially at a time when the preservation of our nature and and the environment should become a national emergency. Coconut Grove is attracting a lot of interest because of how it is, and of the diversity of its population, its history, its culture. Therefore I am strongly opposed to any redistricting that would alter or impact the unity and cohesiveness of Coconut Grove. This is simply common sense and care. We belong in the Coconut Grove district, this would be an act of discrimination agains us, who have worked hard to maintain our houses, we who are mainly american citizen with the right to vote and for that reason politicians think they can do whatever they want to manipulate the districts for their own convenience and get more voters. NO to dividing the grove, we have been part of the Grove since for ever, being that the reason because we purchase our home here, to be able to send our kids to the schools in here and to be part of this traditional neighborhood. Politicians have NO RIGHT TO KICK IS OUT. The decision would be greatly unfair and I am opposed. We support & demand ONE GROVE We support & demand ONE GROVE 1959 Secoffee Luz Davila Street Miami FI 33133 Ian Terry 3800 Irvington Avenue Mel Meinhardt 3075 Virginia St 2669 S. Rochelle Zuniga Bayshore Dr. Miami, FL 33133 Cesar Oreliana Bridgeport 3060 New York Larry Glick Street Miami FL 33133 Discussion — Redistricting Discussion — Redistricting Discussion — Redistricting Discussion — Redistricting Discussion — Redistricting Discussion — Redistricting