Little Havana Transit Corridor Upzoning

Urged the board to defer the Little Havana upzoning, noting that amended maps were released at the last minute and expressing concerns about traffic, tourism, and quality of life.

Spoke in favor of the upzoning, representing property owners who want to exercise their property rights and support development after years of stagnation.

Argued that Miami is already severely overzoned and warned that adding more density would worsen traffic, water, sewage, and hurricane evacuation challenges.

Noted the massive scope of the rezoning and criticized the extremely short turnaround time for residents to review hundreds of pages of changes.

Spoke on behalf of Historic Shenandoah residents, asking for a deferral because maps changed 48 hours prior and discrepancies exist with online municipal records.

Asked for clarity regarding parking requirements and future adjustments for properties abutting T5 zones.

Expressed support for the upzoning as a property owner near Jose Marti Park, stating that increased density is necessary to provide options and combat high housing costs.

Praised city leadership for taking bold steps to overcome years of stagnation in Little Havana and urged the board to encourage progress.

Questioned city service levels, criticized empty promises of 'public benefits,' and demanded transparency regarding who originated the upzoning proposal.

Criticized the lack of proper notification for homeowners living near proposed upzoned parcels and asked for a deferral.

Supported the proposal, arguing that high housing demand forces workers into poor living conditions and that upzoning will help build necessary working-class housing.

Emphasized Little Havana's nostalgic charm and pleaded with the board to defer the item and educate themselves before making drastic changes.

Stressed that residents have valid concerns about infrastructure, emergency evacuation routes, and school capacity, urging a proper, studied planning process.