Mayor Stanczyk's 2011 Message

Happy New Year, Palmetto Bay!

By Mayor Shelley Stanczyk

Happy New Year, friends and neighbors! It’s that time of year again when people around the world ponder the passing of the old, the promise of the new, and make resolutions.

As your new Mayor and former Councilmember since 2006, I am using this time to reflect with great pride upon our Village’s accomplishments. I am even more excited about our promising future, as we forge ahead into 2011.

The stage is set for what I believe will be a banner year for the Village of Palmetto Bay in 2011. We have kept our promise to build this community in a smart and conservative manner and have achieved outstanding results. In this past year alone, we completed our new Municipal Center and several other major capital projects, we expanded our community programming and parks services, we kept our neighborhoods safe, and we continued to improve our Village’s infrastructure.

But there is still much work to do. I sincerely encourage all of you to continue to be engaged and active in your Village, whether by attending Council meetings, organizing a Neighborhood Crime Watch group, or joining us at one of the many Village special events. In fact, I challenge you to increase your participation by sharing your voice even more in 2011, and by engaging your elected officials and joining Village communications.

On a personal note, serving as your Mayor is the highest honor that I could have ever imagined for myself. I feel truly blessed – I have my health, I have the love of my family, and I have the encouragement of many good friends and neighbors. I thank each and every one of you for your support in the past and look forward to working with you in the New Year.

On behalf of the Village Council and staff, I wish you and your family a happy, healthy, and prosperous new year.

2010 YEAR IN REVIEW

Staff Settles in at new Village Hall … Work continues on the new Municipal Center and staff settles in,. Take a virtual visit! (Dec 28)
Holiday by the Bay … Although it was terrifically rainy Dec. 18, everyone at our first " Holiday by the Bay" was glad they attended. With its mini-midway, a fantastic holiday show, tasty food, and fun crafts -- it was a great night out. See photo coverage.
Village Map Now On-Line … If you did not receive your own personal copy of the new Village map at home, please visit the on-line version (Dec. 1)
Village Communications ... We post news/info extensively on Facebook, which automatically generates a Twitter entry at PalmettoBayHome. Google Alerts then picks up from any and all of these channels (including e-Currents ), as well as postings to YouTube at PalmettoBayOfficial. (Dec. 27)
Holiday Event Sponsors ... Special thanks to Participating Sponsor, Palmetto Bay United Youth Soccer, for its major donation toward the success of " Holiday by the Bay;" and to in-kind sponsor Picture Perfect Art & Custom Framing (305-378-9199). (Dec. 18)
Flow Way Project Video ... Get a behind the scenes look at the major rehydration project that is revitalizing the Biscayne Bay Coastal Wetlands. Will there once again be water under Deering's Chinese Bridge ? Get the answer from South Florida Water Management District. (Dec. 9)
Cistern Construction ... Two giant underground cisterns at the new Village Hall will offer a total of 60,000 gallons of stored rain water for re-purposing -- one of the many Green systems our new LEED-certified Municipal Center employs. See Facebook. (Dec. 8)
DARE Grads at Coral Reef ... Hundreds of students Coral Reef Elementary celebrated the successful completion of the 10-week Drug Abuse Resistance Education, facilitated by our own Palmetto Bay Police. (Nov. 23)
New on the Police Beat ... Lieutenant Jorge Carreño, a 23-year Miami-Dade Police veteran, has joined the Village Policing Unit as executive officer/operations commander, assigned to supervising the Unit’s day-to-day operations, under Lt. Gregory Truitt. Read more in the Palmetto Bay News. (Nov. 1)
Mayor, Council sworn in ... Mayor Shelley Stanczyk was sworn in at the Nov. 18 Council Meeting, as were new Councilmembers Joan Lindsay (District-3) and Patrick Fiore (District-1). Congratulations to all. See Facebook for more. (Nov. 18)
Circle Takes Shape ... Our newest traffic circle has opened with new trees and sod, fresh paving, and a central public art piece -- an obelisk. See Facebook for more photos and tips on safe roundabout driving The project included removal of a traffic light and construction of a traffic circle, new curbs, sidewalk, and landscaping. (Nov. 8)
First Green Facility ... The Coral Reef Park concession facility, Park View Cafe, is the first municipal building in Miami-Dade County to receive U.S. Green Building Council LEED Certification. It's great to be Green! (Oct. 2010)
2010-11 Budget Adopted ... Council approved the FY2010-11 budget Sept. 27 hearing. The adopted budget went into effect on Oct. 1. Check out the proposed budget, and look for a final document to be posted in the coming weeks. (Oct. 4)
Judge Gets Police Award … Palmetto Bay Policing Unit Officer Pete Judge was nominated for the Police Officer of the Year award for his dedication and service at the Citizens’ Crime Watch Gala. (Oct. 1)
Now Serving Traffic Tables ... Starting Oct. 6, Public Works began installing new Traffic Calming Tables at SW 140 St., SW 74 Ct., and SW 75 Ave. (Oct. 1)
Village History Video ... The video that premiered during the 2010 State of the Village Address is now available, compliments of Community Newspapers. (Oct 27)
Police Help Fight Drug Abuse … The Police Community Outreach team struck a deal with MedSafe to help parents in the community reduce prescription-drug abuse among our youth. (Oct. 27)
Skate Park Winners … Congratulations to the winners of the Wreck the Deck skate competition at Palmetto Bay Park, Sept. 25. See Facebook for details and a photo! (Sept. 25)
Village Backs Bridge ... Council voted July 12 to support continued restoration of the Everglades and to endorse an additional 5.5 miles of the Tamiami Trail. (July 21)
Crosswalk Improvement ... Residents will enjoy a safer intersection at SW 152 & Old Cutler, following $160,500 in cross-walk improvements -- funded by a Federal Stimulus grant -- slated for completion July 16. Read more & see construction details. See pix on Facebook. ( July 16, 2010 )
Parks Offer Wifi ... Enjoy free and secure Wifi service at Coral Reef and Palmetto Bay Parks . (July 2)
Oil Spill Update ... While the Gulf oil spill has not impacted Miami-Dade's beaches or fishing industry, the County continues to monitor the spill's development, according to info provided by Chris Himmel in t the South Dade Office of Miami-Dade County Mayor Carlos Alvarez. (July 12)
Dog Park is #1 ... NewTimes is recognizing Perrine Wayside Dog Park as the "Grrrrreatest in Miami-Dade." Two paws up to our Parks & Rec staff for maintaining this fantastic Village amenity.
Park View Cafe ... View photos we shot this morning of the new concession and storage facility at Coral Reef Park on Facebook.
Deering Estate Way ... A new co-designated street sign signifying the strong relationship between the Village and the Deering Estate at Cutler is now in place, called “Deering Estate Way,” on SW 168 following an unveiling ceremony. See photos on Facebook. (June 23 )
Summer Camp Registration ... It's certainly not too late to register for our 8-week Summer Camp at Coral Reef and Palmetto Bay Parks . Program includes swimming, games, & fun field trips. See Camp Calendar and Palmetto Bay News coverage. (June 28)
Facebook & Twitter ... Palmetto Bay News spotted us on Facebook and a Twitter page recently -- another way Palmetto Bay proves how truly accessible local government can be.
Deering Point Re-Opens ... Commissioner Sorenson celebrates the reopening of Miami-Dade's Deering Point, at the C-100 Canal on Biscayne Bay, following new drainage, paving, landscaping, and utilities (to support future shelters and restrooms). See Facebook for some pictures. (June 24)
Oil Spill Impact ... Chris Himmel of the South Dade Office of Mayor Carlos Alvarez shared this report regarding the Florida response to the Deepwater Horizon incident. (June 15)
Public Art Approved ... Palmetto Bay’s public art program says so much about our wonderfully progressive and supportive community, as two new art projects are now on the horizon – creatively funded through private and commercial sources. Read all about it. (June 15).
Park View Cafe ... Palmetto Bay ’s newest park amenity offers visitors an assortment of affordable food and beverage options at the Village-owned concession building at Coral Reef Park. Read more -- and check out some pix now posted on Facebook. (June 11)
Last Day of School ... Coral Reef Elementary and Southwood Middle School grads whipped up some fun to celebrate the last day of school at Coral Reef Park, June 9, as Village staff and Police keep a watchful eye. See more on Facebook and in the Palmetto Bay News. (June 16)
Lightning Prediction System ... Palmetto Bay Park is now home to Thor Guard, a lightning prediction system that advises park-goers and area residents when to seek shelter and when the coast is clear. Look for coverage in the June 15 edition of Palmetto Bay News . We got a sneak peak at their photos... (June 4)
Red Ribbon Day … Congratulation to Southwood Middle School as a Red Ribbon State Certified School -- one of only four schools locally to receive this honor. (June 3)
Village Ranks 8th … The County Tax Appraiser's estimate of taxable values ranks Palmetto Bay eighth least impacted by declines. The Miami Herald covered the story. (June 4)
Hurricane Season Begins ... Preparedness is the best defense against any adverse act of Mother Nature. The Village and Miami-Dade plan to swiftly clear roads, assess damages, and remove debris. What's your your plan during the first 72 hours? Visit our Disaster Preparedness page; and see County tips, too. (June 1)
Spill Nears Florida Shores … So. Fla. Business Journal reports that oil from the Deepwater Horizon spill is nearing Pensacola , presently about 8 miles from shore. Projections indicate the leading edge of the spill could impact the Panhandle as early as this week, due to a shift in winds and currents. (June 2)
Panther Parkway Unveiled ... Parents & students of Perrine Elementary unveiled new street signage May 27 honoring this outstanding school. The Mayor, Council and County Commissioner Katy Sorenson took a "paws" from their busy schedule to help celebrate the day.
Deering Flow Way Project ... Dignitaries celebrated start of the long-awaited freshwater flow-way project at Deering May 7, part of CERP: Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan. South Florida Water Management District hosted the ceremony in the Royal Palm Grove. (May 7)
Golf Cart Ordinance ... See the Palmetto Bay News for a feature on how the new Village Ordinance on Golf Cart usage is a big hit with at least one (registered) local cart enthusiast. (May 11)
Permits for Special Events ... Ensure a safe, secure special event at your business by getting necessary info -- and permits -- at least
Three Cities Fund Fireworks ... As you sit back to enjoy the Annual Fireworks Display at Black Point Park this Independence Day, thank Palmetto Bay, Pinecrest, and Cutler Bay for pitching in a $3,000 donation each. You, too, can be a sponsor.
Water System Improvements ... Residents got a County letter advising work in the area of SW 76 Ave. and SW 172 St. to improve the delivery of drinking water and fire protection. There may be an impact on traffic flow. (April 2010)
Earth Week Epilogue ... Now that Earth Week 2010 is over and the Village is home to 26,000 new ladybugs, it is time to thank all those who sponsored and supported this year's amazing event. Take a look at local coverage and our Facebook page. (April 2010)
Council Urges Co-Designation ... Don't be surprised if you see a street sign reading “Dolphin Crossing.” Council is requesting County approval to co-designate several existing street signs near Coral Reef Elementary, in honor of the school's record for educational excellence. See the full story and coverage in the Miami Herald. (April 2010)
Battle of Bands ... T he Village Parks & Rec dept. hosted " Battle of the Bands," March 27 at Ludovici Park . Jump over to Facebook for photo coverage -- and look for news coverage in The Herald and Palmetto Bay New s. Also, Summer Camp & Skate Adventure is here. Registration via yellow box (below)
Dog Park on Facebook ... The Village's Dog Park is now on Facebook. Hound us with your own photos taken at the park. Also, on occasion, we use this page to post pictures of stray pets we find around the Village, including a small dog rescued Tuesday from the US-1 island at Colonial Drive .
radKIDS Self Defense ... Village Police continue their popular rad/KIDS training with a two groups of students from Coral Reef Elementary School this week. Last month, the Village received extensive news coverage of the self-defense training for kids on Channel 4, in the Palmetto Bay News , and Channel 6.
Library Grand Opening ... Village Council, Miami-Dade officials, and residents officially snipped the ribbon at the County Library last week. We also dedicated the Edward & Arlene Feller Community Room & Amphitheater. See photos on Facebook. (March 2010)
Slam Fest Hits Palmetto Bay ... Palmetto Bay is hosting one of the biggest girls' softball tournaments in all of Florida , as more than 44 teams converge at Palmetto Bay Park , March 18-20. This is the third year Slam Fest organizers have chosen our Village to host this prestigious statewide event at our premier softball complex. (March 2010).
Police Rally for Relay ... Palmetto Bay 's Policing Unit has a team in the annual Relay For Life, March 13-14 at Children’s Hospital Palmetto Bay Center. Event Co-Chair and Councilwoman Shelley Stanczyk encourages residents to support -- or form -- a team today.
Celebration Picnic a Huge Success . . . Thanks for attending the ribbon cutting at Parkview Cafe and the Picnic, March 6. Said one resident, "The Village sure knows how to put on a party..." Visit the Village's Facebook page for photo coverage. Special thanks again to our generous supporters!
Safe Routes to Schools ... The Village has received County grant to develop a Safe Route to School study, as part of a national program that encourages kids to walk and bicycle to school. The areas around and leading up the Village's four public schools will benefit. Read the Village press release and subsequent coverage in The Miami Herald. (Feb. 2010)
Officer friendly Visits Howard ... Fingerprinting/photo services are provided to more than 75 kids at Howard Elementary's recent Fun Fair. (Feb. 2010)
Swift Emergency Response ... A fire forced evacuation of all residents of Villagio Condos, Feb. 8. MDFR contained the blaze, Red Cross placed families, and our Bldg Dept. is ensuring the property can be safe again. See fire coverage and recognition of Publix at March Council meeting. Special thanks to Troy Fauerbach, Mgr of Publix at 146 St. , for donating food on site for displaced residents. (Feb 8 )
Haiti Relief Drop-Off Points ... Village Hall/Policing Unit and the Library are drop-off points for essential items in the County's relief effort. Visit update #3 and the Red Cross for info. Village Hall hours: M-F, 8:30 -5. Also, see a scam warning on our Police page.
Hearts and Prayers ... The Village expresses its deepest concern for the people of Haiti. Residents should follow the lead set forth by Miami-Dade County during this initial stage of relief and recovery. Also see the American Red Cross website. (Jan. 13)
Bldg Dept Survey ... The Building department must be doing something right -- ranking at the top of the scale in all customer service categories measured by a recent survey.
Kudos! Everglades Restoration ... SFWMD's C-111 Spreader Canal project is part of a plan to restore freshwater flows to Florida Bay, preserve clean water for Everglades Nat”l Park, and maintain flood control. Read more.
Area Schools Rank High ... Newsweek just released the top high schools in the nation. Coral Reef (ranked #26) and Palmetto (#208) Sr High Schools are on the list. Congrats to students, teachers, parents, administrators. (Jan. 22)
Arbor Day Celebration ... Local pre-schoolers helped us celebrate Arbor Day, Jan. 15, by planting several trees in our new butterfly garden. Local artist Xavier Cortado also introduced his eco-art project to the community. See the Photo Gallery. Also see The Miami Herald . (Jan. 15 )
Drug Discounts Still Available ... Check out this prescription discount program for Palmetto Bay residents who either lack insurance or have limited coverage -- thanks to the NLC and Councilman Ed Feller (left). All you need is to download a card and visit a participating pharmacy today.
Storm Water Project ... A major stormwater drainage project starts this week, Jan. 11. Flyers were delivered to affected residents. Questions? Concerns? Contact Village Hall or call 305-969-5011. Also see Sunday's ( 1/10/10 ) Miami Herald for a related article.
Comp Plan Amendments . . . Planning & Zoning Director Perez announces that, after years of work in creating our Comprehensive Plan, involving countless meetings and hours of planning, the process of formally adopting several key amendments is nearly completed. See local coverage. (Jan. 2010)