HomeMy WebLinkAboutSubmittal-Maji Ramos-Email to CommissionersFwd: Support for Agenda Item RE.8 - Creating a Process for Homeowners to Plant Native
Plants on Their Adjacent Swale
From: Maji Ramos (majigreeninitiative@gmail.com)
To: mdmd94@bellsouth.net
Date: Wednesday, July 26, 2023 at 09:20 PM EDT
Submitted into the public
record for it m(s)E,
on r] 111 I L3 . City Clerk
Forwarded message
From: Maji Ramos <majigreeninitiative@gmail.com>
Date: Wed, Jul 26, 2023 at 8:43 PM
Subject: Support for Agenda Item RE.8 - Creating a Process for Homeowners to Plant Native Plants on Their Adjacent
Swale
To:<adiazdelaportilla@miamigov.com>, <cking@miamigov.com>, <jcarollo@miamigov.com>,
<mreyes@miamigov.com>, <sabinacovo@miamigov.com>
Dear Honorable City Commissioners,
I am writing to express my strong support for Agenda Item RE.8, which directs the City Manager to take all necessary
steps to present legislation at the September 14, 2023 City Commission meeting to create a process that allows
homeowners to plant certain native plants on their adjacent swale by right, while other native and non-native plants
would require a review and permit process. As a responsible and environmentally conscious member of the community, I
believe this initiative is crucial in protecting our environment and addressing the current state of Biscayne Bay and the
climate crisis we face.
I would like to emphasize the importance of implementing and enforcing the existing landscape and right-of-way
landscape ordinance adopted by the City of Miami in June 2010, and in Miami 21 in January 2011, that calls for a
minimum of 30% native plants and 50% drought -tolerant species. As we proceed with the proposal to allow "other native
and non-native plants" through a review and permit process, it is crucial to ensure that at least 30% of these plants
remain native and adhere to Florida Friendly landscaping principles. This approach will not only beautify our
neighborhoods but also contribute significantly to the preservation of our environment.
Biscayne Bay, a vital natural resource, has been facing environmental challenges, including pollution and habitat
degradation. As concerned citizens, it is our duty to take meaningful action to safeguard the health and vitality of this
ecosystem. By encouraging homeowners to incorporate native plants on their swales, we can positively impact the
health of the bay, improve water quality, and support biodiversity.
As we are all aware, Miami is no stranger to the consequences of intense rainfall and severe weather events, often
leading to flooding, water pollution, and damage to our natural habitats. With the increasing frequency of such events
due to climate change, it is crucial for our city to adopt effective stormwater management strategies. Swales planted with
native plants are a proven and sustainable approach to address these challenges, providing a multitude of benefits to
our community.
Properly planted and maintained swales reduce stormwater runoff and improve water quality significantly. The native
plant roots act as natural filters, trapping and treating pollutants such as heavy metals, oil, sediment, and harmful
chemicals from the water before they reach our water bodies. Studies have shown that Swales can remove up to 90% of
pollutants, thereby protecting our sensitive aquatic ecosystems and preserving the biodiversity of our city.
Additionally, swales play a vital role in replenishing our groundwater reserves. By allowing stormwater to infiltrate into
the soil, they recharge the underground aquifers, which is especially critical in Miami, which face challenges of saltwater
intrusion and increasing demands on freshwater resources.
Furthermore, our community is not immune to the impacts of the ongoing climate crisis. Rising temperatures, extreme
weather events, and sea -level rise pose significant threats to Miami's future. Native plants play a pivotal role in climate
resilience, as they are well -adapted to our local conditions and require Tess water and maintenance. By embracing
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native plantings in our swales, we can foster a more sustainable and resilient urban environment for ourselves and
future generations.
Research has consistently shown the numerous benefits of native plants. They provide essential habitat for local wildlife,
including birds, butterflies, and beneficial insects. Native plantings in our swales will also promote healthier soil, reduce
stormwater runoff, and mitigate the urban heat island effect. Moreover, the decreased reliance on water and chemical
inputs helps conserve resources and minimize our ecological footprint.
In conclusion, I urge you to wholeheartedly support Agenda Item RE.8 and advocate for the creation of a process that
allows homeowners to plant certain native plants on their adjacent swale by right, with careful consideration and
oversight for other native and non-native plants through a review and permit process. By adhering to the existing
landscape and right-of-way landscape ordinance, we can ensure that the inclusion of non-native species complements
our commitment to native plantings and Florida Friendly landscaping principles.
The decision to support this initiative is not just about the present but about securing a sustainable and vibrant future for
our city. Together, we can make a positive impact on the environment, promote biodiversity, and create a healthier and
more resilient Miami.
Thank you for your time and consideration. I trust that you will make the right choice for our community and its future. If
you have any questions or need further information, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Sincerely,
Maji Ramos and Martin Drost
555 NE 56 St
Miami, FL
Submitted into the P u i
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on 1 17:1 13 . City Clerk
Submitted into the public
record for item(s) RE.8 ,
on 07/27/2023 . City Clerk
Submitted into the public
record for item(s) RE.8
on 07/27/2023 . City Clerk
Submitted into the public
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Submitted into the public
record for item(s) RE.8
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Submitted into the public
record for item(s) RE.8 ,
on 07/27/2023 . City Clerk
Submitted into the public
record for item(s) RE.8
on 07/27/2023 . City Clerk
Submitted into the public
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on 07/27/2023 . City Clerk
Submitted into the public
record for item(s) RE.8
on 07/27/2023 . City Clerk
Submitted into the public
record for item(s) RE.8
on 07/27/2023 . City Clerk
Submitted into the public
record for item(s) RE.8
on 07/27/2023 . City Clerk
Submitted into the public
record for item(s) RE.8 ,
on 07/27/2023 . City Clerk
Submitted into the public
record for item(s) RE.8
on 07/27/2023 . City Clerk
Submitted into the public
record for item(s) RE.8 ,
on 07/27/2023 . City Clerk
Submitted into the public
record for item(s) RE.8
on 07/27/2023 . City Clerk
Submitted into the public
record for item(s) RE.8
on 07/27/2023 . City Clerk
Submitted into the public
record for item(s) RE.8
on 07/27/2023 . City Clerk