South Florida’s Green Oasis

Boasting a serene escape while offering impressive amenities, this municipality strikes the right balance.

With lush treetop canopies and a tranquil atmosphere, Miami Shores Village is a picturesque retreat in the heart of South Florida. This charming two-square-mile community, home to approximately 11,000 residents, offers a harmonious blend of modern convenience and nostalgic charm. Renowned for its unique character and natural beauty, Miami Shores Village proudly boasts the largest tree canopy in Miami-Dade County, creating a verdant and serene environment that feels worlds away from the urban bustle of nearby high-density areas.

“Miami Shores Village is an oasis,” says Esmond K. Scott, the Village Manager. “Our community treasures its natural assets, fostering a sense of calm and connection to nature that is increasingly rare in today’s fast-paced world.” Beyond its green spaces, the Village features vibrant community life, with historic homes, walkable streets, and family-friendly amenities. It is a coveted destination for those seeking a close-knit neighborhood in a metropolitan region. Whether strolling shaded streets or gathering at one of the local parks and events, residents and visitors experience a village that balances serenity with a dynamic sense of community.

Preserving the Village feel

Scott emphasizes that preserving the small-village charm is a deliberate choice by the community. “We went through a comprehensive plan update, and the residents made it clear that they wanted to maintain this character,” he says. Unlike other South Florida communities embracing rapid urbanization, Miami Shores prioritizes responsible growth. The community’s commitment to its residential roots ensures it remains a coveted destination for families and retirees.

The Village’s charm is reflected in its eclectic mix of Mediterranean and modern homes, which continue to attract buyers. “Home prices here are above average, and demand remains strong because of our premium quality of life,” Scott explains. While new housing developments are rare, one development in particular which is making its way to the Village Council in the form of a zoning code amendment to establish a community Residential Zoning District, tells a familiar tale. The focus remains on preserving the community’s existing character and harmonious feel.

Tackling infrastructure challenges

Infrastructure improvements are a top priority for Miami Shores Village. “Given our location, we face the realities of sea-level rise and aging septic systems,” Scott notes. The Village is addressing these challenges through several master plans. A septic-to-sewer conversion initiative aims to provide a map that identifies and prioritizes the modernization of the community’s waste management systems. “We’re developing a master plan that helps prioritize areas and create shovel-ready documents for grant applications and overall funding,” he adds.

In addition, the Village is crafting a stormwater master plan to improve drainage systems in response to rising sea levels. “These plans are essential for our long-term sustainability,” Scott says. The Village is also in the early stages of a master plan for parks and green spaces, which aims to enhance recreational opportunities for residents. “Community involvement is critical,” Scott emphasizes. “Residents will have a say in shaping these initiatives.”

A vibrant business ecosystem

Despite being primarily residential, Miami Shores Village boasts a growing business community. George Burch, Mayor of Miami Shores Village, highlights several new additions, including Blue Dental, a fitness food store called Athletics Fit, a small market, Meghan Grimbert Design, and a Haitian bakery. “These businesses add to the vibrancy of our community,” Mayor Burch says. Larger organizations such as Kids in Distress, which recently established its headquarters, are also part of the Village’s ecosystem. Professional offices, medical care facilities, and design agencies also contribute to its business landscape.

The Village’s location between Miami and Fort Lauderdale makes it an attractive spot for businesses and residents. “We’re ideally located, with access to major road systems like Interstate 95 and Biscayne Boulevard,” Mayor Burch notes. “It’s a place where families can thrive, with tree-lined streets, bike paths, and a strong sense of community.”

A Village that celebrates together

Community engagement is a defining feature of Miami Shores Village, evident in its robust calendar of events. “You can’t pick a month without something happening here,” Mayor Burch says. From the annual Spooktacular Halloween celebration to the Miami Shores Boat Parade, the Village hosts events that foster a strong sense of belonging.

One of the most cherished traditions is Santa’s Express, a toy delivery initiative where floats travel to homes, bringing holiday cheer. “Residents open their homes for the Heidi Hewes Home for the Holidays Walk, raising funds for University of Miami cancer research,” Mayor Burch adds. Other highlights include the Green Day sustainability fair, the Fourth of July fireworks, and the Easter marshmallow drop from a helicopter.

Community groups such as The Alliance, the Chamber of Commerce, other entities, and, of course, the local government play vital roles in funding some of the Village’s events. “We have 14 committees that ensure everyone’s voice is heard,” Mayor Burch says. These volunteer-driven efforts underscore the Village’s dedication to fostering a close-knit community.

Addressing environmental sustainability

Miami Shores Village is proactive in addressing environmental challenges. A dedicated sustainability and resilience committee is tasked with planning for the future. “We’re preparing for sea-level rise and other climate-related challenges to ensure the Village remains vibrant for generations,” Mayor Burch explains.

One of the immediate challenges is the rising water table, which affects septic systems. “We’re already transitioning one of the most affected areas to a sewer system,” Mayor Burch says. The Village also raises seawalls and requires new constructions to comply with stringent elevation requirements. “These measures reflect our commitment to long-term resilience,” Scott adds.

The Village also collaborates with regional and federal entities to address climate concerns. This cooperative approach allows Miami Shores to access additional resources and expertise. The Village can effectively tackle future challenges by aligning local initiatives with broader environmental strategies.

Miami Shores is also educating its residents on environmental best practices. From tree-planting initiatives, butterfly gardens, using native plantings, to promoting energy-efficient homes, the Village fosters a culture of sustainability that extends beyond policy and into everyday life. The Village’s recycling efforts are lauded and well celebrated as they boast the lowest contamination rate in Miami-Dade County and indeed throughout the adjoining South Florida communities.

Financial Sustainability and Future Investments

Maintaining financial stability is crucial for the Village’s growth. “Money is always the biggest challenge,” Scott says. Federal funds, such as the $5 million received through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), have helped fund essential projects. However, the Village’s revenue primarily comes from property taxes, which benefit from rising home values.

At the heart of Miami Shores lies its historic Miami Shores Golf Course & Country Club, a 100-acre gem in the middle of the Village. “It’s essentially the heart of our community,” Scott explains. The golf course occupies a significant portion of the Village’s small footprint, as Miami Shores spans just 3.5 square miles, with one mile being water. “Landmass-wise, we’re only a 2.5 square-mile village,” Scott notes, highlighting the golf course’s central role.

Built in 1939, the course celebrates historical charm but is now considering an approximate $35 million renovation, which could be funded by means of a revenue bond. “The National Golf Foundation has projected that the course will generate enough income to cover the bond,” Scott says. The plans include a new clubhouse and adding 10 to 12 lakes, addressing challenges posed by global warming and rising groundwater levels. “We need to elevate the land again,” Scott adds, emphasizing the project’s environmental and community importance. Although construction has yet to begin, the Village is actively preparing Requests for Qualifications.

Miami Shores is also exploring the possibilities of investing in a new community center to meet the needs of its growing population. “The average age here is 35, and we’re seeing more young families moving in daily,” Mayor Burch shares. These investments reflect a broader commitment to improving residents’ quality of life. The community center project has already undergone one study, with a second group now charged with looking quite globally at a Parks Master Plan. Through this means, the needs of the community will largely dictate and shape the verdict of a new community center.

Engaging residents in decision-making

One of the defining features of Miami Shores Village is its emphasis on community involvement. “This is a place where everyone’s voice matters,” Scott says. The comprehensive plan, which took nearly two years to finalize, reflects the community’s desire to limit density and maintain a residential focus.

Mayor Burch underscores the importance of transparency and collaboration. “Our committees, whether focused on sustainability, education, or recreation, ensure that residents are part of the decision-making process,” he says. This inclusive approach fosters a strong sense of ownership and pride among residents.

The Village also utilizes modern communication channels to engage with residents, ensuring they stay informed about ongoing projects and initiatives. Council meetings held twice a month, newsletters, and an active social media presence, allow the community to provide input, reinforcing their role in shaping the future of Miami Shores.

A Village like no other

As the interview concludes, Mayor Burch offers a heartfelt reflection: “I defy you to find a better place to raise a family in metropolitan Miami-Dade County.” With its unique blend of community spirit, environmental stewardship, and thoughtful development, Miami Shores Village stands as a model for sustainable and family-oriented living.

Scott echoes this sentiment, highlighting the dedication of the Village’s residents. “This is a community in the truest sense,” he says. “Our volunteers, committees, and engaged citizens make this Village special. It’s not just where you live; it’s where you belong.”

From its vibrant events to its forward-thinking initiatives, Miami Shores Village thrives as a beacon of community and sustainability. For those seeking a place to call home, this charming village offers a welcoming embrace rooted in tradition and focused on the future.

At A Glance

Who: Miami Shores Village
What: A picturesque suburban community in Miami-Dade County, Florida, known for its tree-lined streets, historic charm, vibrant cultural offerings, and a strong sense of community.
Where: Located in Miami-Dade County, Florida, just north of downtown Miami, bordering Biscayne Bay to the east.
Website: https://www.msvfl.gov/