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THEA2012/2013VENTURA Sourcebook Sponsored By The City Of Excellence
Letter From The Office of The Mayor 5 Letter From The Office of The City Manager 7 City Organizational Chart & Commission 8
9 CITY History of Aventura 10 Aventura Public Safety Annual Report 13 Sense Of Safety 14 Out In Force 16 Aventura: A Green City With A Silver Lining 17 Aventura City Of Excellence School Annual Report 19 Office Of The City Clerk Annual Report 21 Finance Department Annual Report 23
25 LIVING Community Services Annual Report 27 Come Out To Play 28 Get In The Game 30 Aventura Express Bus Routes & Information 32 Alphabet City: ABCs Of Aventura Living 35
43 ARTS & CULTURE Aventura Arts & Cultural Center (AACC) Annual Report 45 AACC: Frequently Asked Questions 46 Cover Photo: Summer Theatre Camp 2012 Information 48 Waterways Dog Park by Shelly Guberek doggystudio.com 49 WORKING Community Development Annual Report 51 © 2012 City of Aventura. theAventura: Local Business Tax Guide & Building Permit Information 52 2012/2013 Sourcebook Information Technology Annual Report 55 Sponsored by the City of City Communications / eGovernment 56 Excellence was produced Keep In Touch 57 by thinkbox strategies, 847.736.1387. Calendar of City Sponsored Events 58 Special thanks to City of Aventura IT Director Karen Lanke 61 FUTURE and Communications/ City Of Aventura: Budget Priorities/Goals 62 Technical Project Specialist Annette González City Of Aventura: Budget Highlights 63 for their contributions Then & Now 64 to the publication. All rights reserved.
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Annual Report 2011 OFFICE OF THE MAYOR
DEAR CITY OF AVENTURA RESIDENTS:
It is my privilege as your Mayor to present year we experienced record numbers of participates in all of the City’s Annual Report for 2011. It has these programs. I invite you to join one or more of the City’s been seven years since you elected me many recreation programs and activities. to the Office of Mayor. Much has been addressed during that period of time in After three years of battling an economic recession that has response to your concerns and continues seen the City’s tax base erode by 25%, we are starting to on an ongoing basis. observe positive signs that point to an economic recovery for our area. I am cautiously optimistic about the recovery The Aventura Arts & Cultural Center (AACC) began its as we witness more new businesses opening in our City second season in October 2011 with the “Curtains Up” and new office buildings and residential development being open house and Founders Day weekend events. The new constructed. The City Commission spends a great deal of season includes a variety of shows and events scheduled time ensuring that your tax dollars are spent wisely and are for the year. The first season was very successful which in the best interests of the entire community. These efforts encompassed a mix of self-presentations and rental have allowed the City to maintain the lowest tax rate in bookings, a range of programming types and a first year total Miami–Dade County. of 142 days booked with 28,834 tickets sold. I would like to take this opportunity to thank the community for embracing Last year we received the results of the Census held in 2010. the new AACC and attending the numerous shows. We will Our population is almost 36,000 residents. These results continue to work towards improved programming that is showed that over the past ten years the City’s population reflective of the various suggestions made by the members has grown younger and more ethnically diverse. The City of the community. The AACC has been a great new addition has been progressive in responding to the population shift to our Charter School as well and has enabled students as witnessed by the creation of new parks, our “A” rated to be exposed to the performing arts by attending and charter school and the addition of the Aventura Arts & participating in various shows and activities. I invite you to Cultural Center. participate in the AACC’s fundraising projects; “Walk of the Arts” and “Honor Roll” which gives residents and businesses As we begin 2012, I want to take this opportunity to thank a chance to support local cultural programs while becoming the community for its valuable support during the past year part of Aventura history. as we addressed many difficult and important issues on behalf of the future of Aventura. I am pleased to report that in February of this year after years of urging by your Aventura City Commission, the County Sincerely, held a ground breaking ceremony for the construction of the replacement facility for Northeast Miami-Dade County Library branch. The new building will be constructed on Susan Gottlieb, Mayor the site of the previous facility which was destroyed by Hurricane Wilma in 2005 and later demolished. At more than 26,000 square feet, it will include an exterior covered deck, vestibule, two courtyards, a 100-seat auditorium, two conference rooms, a coffee shop and separate reading rooms for Adults, Young Adults and Children. Construction is expected to be complete in eighteen months.
On November 6, 2011, our community celebrated Founders Day, the annual occasion recognizing the Founders of our City. Over 6,100 attended the various events held at Founders Park. This represented the largest crowd in the history of this City. Our youth athletic programs continue to grow with basketball, soccer, baseball, t-Ball and flag football. This past
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Annual Report 2011 OFFICE OF THE CITY MANAGER
TO THE RESIDENTS OF AVENTURA:
I am pleased to present theAventura to the Community Service Department’s fleet size and utilizing more community which includes an overview of paperless strategies. the City’s accomplishments this past year and information on municipal services. In addition, During the past year, the City continued to focus on maintaining this publication is designed as a useful resource and protecting its infrastructure by completing several capital for City residents and visitors. Each year as projects. In our efforts to improve drainage around the City, we prepare the annual report for the citizens projects including road resurfacing were completed along NE of Aventura, we reflect on and seek to communicate the 191st Street, NE 29th Avenue, 187th Avenue and NE 34th Avenue. achievements of the past and our plans for 2012. The first phase of installing more efficient decorative street lighting along the eastside of Biscayne Boulevard was recently Over the past four years the City has experienced huge losses completed; the remaining portions of Biscayne Boulevard will in property tax revenue. This is due to the economic recession continue to completed in phases over the next three years. New that resulted in lower property values and voter-approved exercise equipment and shade structures for the bleachers were constitutional amendments that took effect three years ago. The installed at Founders Park. Over 24,000 riders a month utilized City’s taxable value has decreased from $9.609 billion to $7.291 the City’s free shuttle bus service to travel to their destinations billion. This represents a loss of 24% or $4.0 million in tax revenue throughout the City. compared to the 2007 tax roll year. After years of lower property values, this past year the City experienced a 0.6% increase in The City’s Aventura City of Excellence School (ACES) charter property values. school completed a successful 8th year and scored an A on the School Performance Grade issued by the State of Florida. Cautiously, based on trends it appears the probability of the City’s ACES ranked 7th in the state and 2nd in the County on the Florida overall property values may have “bottomed out.” Recently, we Comprehensive Assessment Test for K-8 schools. The school have seen positive signs that the local economy has shown some administration, staff, teachers, parents and students should be improvement. The new construction values rose moderately to commended for a job well done. ACES’s students have received $33.5 million. However, as we continue to observe, the recovery recognition for their fundraising efforts on behalf of local, state from this economic downturn is slower and longer than previous and international organizations. recoveries. All indications are that for the next several years we will experience slow growth in the South Florida economy. On March 1, 2012 the City launched a major overhaul of its website to address input from the community by upgrading the There was one silver lining to the recession that assisted the City technology and producing a more user friendly experience. I in reducing its operating costs. The model of privatizing many invite you to explore the new site at cityofaventura.com. service areas of the City’s operations over the years has served the City well and has allowed for a more cost effective service As we continually strive to improve our community, I am proud delivery system as compared to the traditional government to work with informed elected officials, a dedicated group of City structure. Over the past two years as service contracts expired employees and involved citizens. and were placed out for bids, the results were very favorable to the City and produced cost savings while maintaining current These are challenging times for local governments working to levels of service. The largest cost savings were realized in the maintain quality services despite revenue reductions caused by maintenance and transportation service areas. In addition, the economic downturn. However, we are committed to continue capital project bids produced favorable results and lower costs to provide quality services to the community while maintaining a as compared to past years. low tax rate.
We continue to explore alternatives in our continuing quest to I hope you enjoy reading about the progress of your community, reduce operating costs and remain prudent and conservative the City of Excellence. in our financial management of the City. It is important to note, the City has experienced reductions in utility expenses from Sincerely, implementing various energy saving measures throughout the organization. In addition, several other cost saving measures have been implemented including issuing stipends in lieu of Eric M. Soroka, ICMA-CM City issued phones for non-essential employees, reducing the City Manager
7 Annual Report 2011 CITY COMMISSION
8 CITY CITY history of aventura Fall – Launched AVTV – 2008 Cable Government Access May 3 – Waterways Channel; now channel 77 Park opened – 7-acres of Comcast. multipurpose athletic fields, outdoor basketball, covered November 11 – Dedicated playground. Government Center on Country Club Drive, 2009 Founders Day and Veterans April – Groundbreaking for Day are held. Only time three Aventura Arts & Cultural events held on one day! Center (AACC).
2002 June – City of Aventura Spring – The first started Tweeting City News. eGovernment service: Better Place Online Customer December – Topping off Service launched on ceremony at AACC. City’s website. Residents 1995 November 5 – First November - Founders Park requested services online. 2010 November 7 – City of Founders Day Celebration. held grand opening and January – Veterans Park Aventura incorporated. dedication at the 3rd Annual 2003 renovations completed; Founders: Rubin Steiner, 1997 Founders Day. February 23 – Aventura restrooms installed. Harry Holzberg, Leonard April 1 – City of Aventura Community Recreation Brenner, Bernard Weinstein, police began full operation November – Officers Center opened. March 21 – Opening day Ken Cohen, Donal Brodey, with 40 officers under Chief outfitted with computer - inaugural Little League Roy Cohen, George Feffer, Thomas Ribel. laptops. August – Aventura City games at Waterways Park. June Stevens, Charlotte of Excellence Charter Weinberg and Eugene Apri – First officer of 1999 Elementary School (ACES) May – Yacht Way Club Stearns, Esq. the Month awarded – January 19 – Aventura opened. It was the first Bridge Repairs completed. Cpl. Tom Mundy. Shuttle Bus started. municipal sponsored charter 1996 school in Miami-Dade July – Don Soffer Exercise March 28 – Mayor and April 29 – The first January 29 – County. Path renovations completed. Councilmembers are Arbor Day celebration; Groundbreaking ceremony elected to office and First groundbreaking for for new Government Center. December – Implemented August – ACES earned an A City Council meeting held. Founders Park. use of Segways for foot rating for the 6th consecutive First Councilmembers February – First bus patrol. year. ACES received first -- Mayor: Arthur I. Snyder; May – Dedication of first shelter opened. National Junior Honor Vice-Mayor: Arthur Berger; police station at 2960 2004 Society Chapter. Councilmembers: Jay R. Aventura Blvd. 1998 – 2000 – Annual May – WPZQ 1650 AM City Beskin; Ken Cohen; Harry Founders Ball started as of Aventura Information September – Aventura’s Holzberg; Jeffrey M. Perlow; Summer – City the Founders Recognition Radio launched. Twitter account reached Patricia Rogers-Liebert. website launched Dinner in 1998. 700+ followers! In February cityofaventura.com June 2 – CitySpeak 2011, reached over 1,000. June 3 – City Manager, redesigned in 2003 and 1999 – 2000 – Country Services started. Residents Eric M. Soroka appointed. November 2004. Club Drive beautification and visitors could now October 17 – Curtain Up, completed. subscribe to email topics community open house June 17 – First Government November – Second from the City. event at the Aventura Arts & Center offices opened at Founders Day celebration. 2000 Cultural Center. 2999 NE 191st Street. March 25 - The Aventura June 18 – Veterans Park December – First Police Department became opened; and the City created October 23 – Aventura Arts July 4 – City held 4th of July Officer of the Year awarded – the youngest agency to its first dog park. & Cultural Center opened. fireworks at two locations. Cpl. Robert Beaty given. ever receive accreditation status through the November – Arthur I. November 13 – New August – Held community 1998 Commission on Snyder park dedicated. Playground at Founders Park seal/logo contest. Resident January – Purchased first Accreditation for Law opened. Marv Wilson created winning marine police patrol vessel. Enforcement Agencies. 2005 design and received $250. (CALEA). August – Middle school 2011 June – Installed two callboxes wing added at Aventura City January – City received September 6 – First on Country Club Drive. May – Purchased first 10 of Excellence School. Green Government recreation program - defibrillators (AED) for Certification Silver Level. Aventura Night at Marlins’ July – Formed first 5-man patrol cars. 2006 Game at Joe Robbie Stadium bike patrol for City. February 6 – Mosaic August – ACES earned an A (Factoid: tickets were only 2001 Sun Sculpture No. 5 rating for the 7th consecutive year. $20 including transportation.) July 22 – Aventura Spring – 203rd Street & dedicated in Government Boulevard landscaping Biscayne Blvd. fly over Center’s main lobby. September – The AACC November – First Improvements finished; completed, easing traffic in celebrated the start of its COPS Briefing. new bus shelters dedicated. and out of Aventura. second season with Curtain Up, a day of celebration and fun.
10 Emergencies don’t wait for appointments.
When you choose an ER for your unforeseen emergencies, choose one that offers excellent care, fast.
Aventura Hospital and Medical Center is ready to respond when life’s emergencies demand immediate attention. Our award-winning team is supported by hundreds of board certified physicians, nurses and staff ready to care for your needs.
Visit our website for up-to-date ER Wait Times at AventuraHospital.com or Text ER to 23000!
Aventura Hospital & Medical Center • 20900 Biscayne Blvd. • Aventura, FL 33180 (305) 682-7390 • AventuraHospital.com
121253_AHMC New ER Ad.indd 1 3/22/12 1:17 PM 12 Annual Report 2011 PUBLIC SAFETY
he Aventura Police Department’s commitment to its mission has allowed Tit to be recognized as an outstanding police department within the law enforcement community of Miami-Dade County. The men and women, both sworn and civilian, have done an outstanding job performing their duties.
In the 2011-2012 fiscal year, the Aventura Police Department implemented many programs geared towards crime suppression and training. The agency has undertaken the task of building a training center for its officers. The training center will be a renovated space on the Government Center’s 3rd floor. The training center will consist of a computerized classroom, a defensive tactics area, office space for the Personnel & Training Unit and a computerized firearms/less-than-lethal weapons training area. Training is the cornerstone of professional
law enforcement and every effort is made to provide constant professional training for Aventura’s police officers and civilian personnel.
The Department supports children and community programs such as the DARE Program, Red Ribbon Week, National Night Out, Annual Food Drive, security surveys for businesses and residences through the Aventura Police Department’s Crime Prevention Unit. In conjunction with the Salvation Army, the Department also conducts a holiday toy drive where the Aventura Police supplies over 250 toys for underprivileged children.
In 2011 the Department was budgeted for 83 sworn employees and 29 civilians. The crime rate for January – December 2011 is based on Uniform Crime Reports (UCR) Total Index Offenses and shows an overall decrease of 4.1%.
13 CITY sense of safety
∕/ The Aventura Mall is one of the busiest shopping malls in South Florida. The mall has over 28 million visitors a year. It was also just ranked as the 2nd most visited mall in the United States by Travel and Leisure magazine. Between shopping, dining, people watching and enjoying the mall’s exhibitions & events, it is easy to get distracted and disregard vigilance to your immediate surroundings. Here are some tips to keep safe:
Do not If a significant Do not Be aware Anything Always stay leave purchase show of people suspicious mindful of valuables is made, large standing should personal visible go straight amounts close by. immediately items such in parked home. Do not of cash. be reported. as a wallet car. make stops Notify mall or purse. for dinner or a security Keep purses movie where guard or an zipped and purchased Aventura within close item(s) may police officer. distance. become unattended.
Be Smart on the Exercise Path
∕/ The 3-mile Don Soffer Exercise Path is a popular place for residents and visitors to bike, jog, skate, walk or stroll. Although the surroundings are lush and beautiful, safety should always be of the utmost importance.
Here are a few ways to stay safe while enjoying the trail:
It is recommended to use When approaching driveways that cause breaks When exercising, refrain 1only one ear bud on a 2driveways and on the exercise path and may 4from wearing expensive portable audio device or keep intersections, remember make it difficult for the driver to jewelry and watches. the volume low enough to be the number one rule about see pedestrians. able to hear nearby sounds. crossing the street – look both It is important to be safe while Restricted hearing increases the ways before crossing. It is best In the evening, wear bright 5exercising. Stay well hydrated, chance of having an accident to always cross the street at 3colored clothing to keep and bring extra water along. On with another bicyclist, skater, the designated crosswalks. visible; remember even at extra hot days it is recommended walker or moving vehicle. Cars enter and exit from sundown visibility decreases. to exercise early in the morning or in the early evenings.
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CITY out in force he City of Aventura Police These programs include: DARE, Red The Aventura Safety Kids program Department provides a variety of Ribbon Week, National Night Out and teaches online safety to children Tcommunity programs focusing the Aventura Safe Kids. and brings awareness to parents on crime and drug prevention, and teachers about children’s online emergency preparedness, community The Drug Abuse Resistance and activities, trends and behaviors. safety and involvement. Education (DARE) program provides the life skills children and teens need The City of Aventura works in a to avoid involvement with drugs, partnership with the Miami-Dade gangs and violence. Office of Emergency Management to help prepare the community for The Aventura Police Department large-scale emergency events which participates in the annual Red Ribbon may impact police services and Week, the nation’s oldest and largest the availability of resources for a drug prevention program. By wearing prolonged period of time. red ribbons and participating in community anti-drug events, the It is important for all City residents young people of Aventura pledge to to take precautionary steps and live drug-free lives. be prepared before an emergency. The Aventura Police Department National Night Out is a program provides assistance to condominium promoting neighborhood spirit and associations, business groups and police-community partnerships in the individuals to create emergency fight for a safer nation. preparedness plans.
Police Department: Non-Emergencies: For Emergencies: 305.466.8989 Dial 911
ever wonder how the City of Aventura Seal was created?
The current City Seal Design was officially adopted through ordinance 97-11 on April 15, 1997. The design was created through a community contest during the summer of 1996. Marv Wilson, creator of the winning design, received a $250 cash award at a ceremony on September 4, 1996. The City of Excellence slogan was adopted in DID YOU DID YOU KNOW? resolution 96-51 on November 5, 1996.
16 CITY
Aventura: A green city with a silver lining
n December 2010, the City of Aventura was named a Green Local Government at the Silver Level by the IFlorida Green Building Coalition. Awards are great, but the biggest accomplishment for the City is how going green has saved energy and visibly lowered operational costs. Four years ago, the City Commission officially adopted the Go Green Campaign which kicked off a concerted effort across all City departments to make sustainability a part of their daily processes. Going green is a standard operating procedure within the City of Aventura government.
The City was already implementing green practices, such as scanning documents for long term storage, but the new GO GREEN program prompted an organized effort with community participation. For the past three years, the City has expanded its internal recycling efforts to include collection at parks, the Aventura City of Excellence School Ventilation and Air Conditioning) systems and technologies and the Community Recreation Center. The public can promoting the conservancy of water and energy. These bring their recyclables, look for the GO GREEN sign and methods coupled with the use of native landscaping and drop them in the bin. natural light can create resources for heat reduction on rooftops and energy generation for solar panels. All of these Green practices spread throughout the City from replacing combined efforts minimize the impact on the local natural light bulbs to purchasing hybrid, electric, and flexible fuel habitat and benefit the occupants of the new building. The vehicles; an environmentally preferred purchasing program; green building program incentives are measured against and replacing large, energy- consuming HVAC systems with the industry standard rating, the LEED (Leadership in leaner and greener models. Whenever the City purchases Energy and Environmental Design) Green Building Rating goods and services, the impact on the environment is System for New Construction. considered equal with other business related factors. The City of Aventura is proud of its Green Local Government In September 2009, the City Commission passed an Award. There are always opportunities for improvements ordinance to promote a green building program for new toward a more sustainable environment. The City invites construction. Green building practices use ecologically the public to join the effort and encourages participation superior building materials and reduce waste generated in the annual GO GREEN Recognition Award Program for during construction. Part of building green means staying residential and commercial properties. green once the building is in operation using HVAC (Heating
∕/ (LEED Explanation from: http://www.usgbc.org/DisplayPage.aspx?CMSPageID=222)
17 18 Annual Report 2011 Aventura City of Excellence School (ACES)
ventura City of Excellence School ACES’ well-rounded formula for A(ACES) is the first municipally-run success has led it to remain one of the charter school in Miami-Dade County top schools in the county by providing serving nearly 1,000 students in a safe learning environment, a talented kindergarten through eighth grades. teaching staff dedicated to using the best practices and a responsive ACES continues to lead the way in leadership team that fosters a school educational excellence with a culture of excellence. challenging core curriculum complemented by a “whole child” Students have an opportunity approach. Students are engaged to enroll in gifted classes and with a curriculum that supports their high school courses at the middle interests and individual development. school level. In 2011, students explored That development includes collaboration between their interests and talents through a variety parents and students fostering character of unique programs. Middle school students education and community development to have a choice of elective courses such as art, flourish. drama, dance, journalism, TV production, guitar and physical education/health. Elementary In 2011, ACES reached several students attended an assortment of special major achievements: classes including art, music, physical education, dance, media, technology, and Spanish. School- • Earned an “A” rating for the seventh sponsored athletic extracurricular activities were consecutive year. expanded to include a dance troupe, flag football • ACES is ranked second among Miami and competitive boys’ and girls’ soccer. Other Dade K-8 combination schools for student intramural sports offered to students included performance and seventh in the state. volleyball, basketball and tennis. ACES students • ACES expanded its technology to include participated in a Student Government Association, wireless connectivity and a mobile iPad Lab. • The outdoor organic garden now includes National Junior Honor Society, chorus and City of permanent flower and plant beds and an Aventura’s special events such as Founders Day, outdoor classroom. Veterans Day and Arbor Day. • ACES 7th grade algebra students earned the highest average score of any 7th grade group in Aventura City of Excellence School continues to the county. reach new heights in academic achievement and • The middle school boys’ flag football team community involvement for students by creating won second place in the Independent Athletic a foundation for success and an unparalleled League championship. experience for its students.
Aventura City of Excellence School: 305.466.1499 aventuracharter.org
19 20 Annual Report 2011 Office of the City Clerk
he City Clerk serves as the City of Aventura’s Residents are Tcorporate secretary. The clerk is the official encouraged to attend City records keeper and custodian of the City seal. Commission meetings, which The City Clerk is a constitutional officer appointed are held in the Government by and reports to the City Commission. Center Commission Chamber on the plaza level at 19200 In 2011, the City Clerk’s Office prepared: 34 sets West Country Club Drive. of minutes and 39 public notices; published 18 To confirm all meeting dates, legal advertisements; drafted 4 ordinances and times and locations, please contact 41 resolutions; responded to 1,655 lien requests; the City Clerk’s Office at 305-466-8901 prepared 359 welcome letters to new residents; or visit cityofaventura.com. and scheduled 555 code enforcement hearings.
Responsibilities of the City Clerk include:
• Recording the meeting minutes and all official • Establishing and coordinating the City’s records actions of the City Commission and its Advisory management program in compliance with Florida Boards. state law.
• Attesting to and maintaining custody of • Responding to public records requests and lien all records of the City including ordinances, searches. resolutions, contracts, deeds, etc. • Scheduling code enforcement hearings and • Publishing and distributing public notices, as providing clerical support to Special Master. required by law. • Providing clerical support to Commissioners and • Administering the publication and assisting the City Manager with special projects. supplementing the City Code of Ordinances. • Administering oaths and providing full notary • Serving as the municipal Supervisor of Elections, services. conducting all City elections in accordance with city, county and state laws.
CITY CLERK & COMMISSION: 305.466.8901
21 22 Annual Report 2011 Finance Department
he Finance Department provides overall Finance’s responsibilities include: financial and administrative support to the TCity of Aventura’s operating departments. • Providing administrative, operational and The primary functions of the Finance department financial assistance to the City Manager and include: accounting, budget control, purchasing, risk staff. management, payroll, cash management and debt administration. • Providing accounting, accounts payable, payroll, budget, grant monitoring and The Department’s mission is to establish and revenue collection functions. maintain effective internal controls to safeguard the City’s assets and maintain the City’s strong financial • Monitoring/projecting the City’s fund condition by responsibly conducting the City’s balances. business operations. • Preparing/assisting with all financial In March 2011, Finance issued the City’s reports – including the CAFR, the Aventura Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR) City of Excellence School Special Purpose for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2010. Financial Report and the City’s Annual Budget. The Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA) awarded a • Providing cash/investment and debt Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial management. Reporting to the City for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2010. This was the 15th consecutive • Monitoring/developing financial strategies year the City has been awarded a certificate of to ensure fiscal solvency and financial achievement. In order to be awarded a certificate, statement integrity through the maintenance a government must publish an easily readable and of proper internal controls. efficiently organized annual report. This report must satisfy both generally accepted accounting • Monitoring and implementing reporting principles and applicable legal requirements. requirements recommended by the State Auditor General, the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA) and Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB).
Due to the current economic environment and a favorable interest rate, in September 2010, the City issued a partial advance refunding of the original 1999 Florida Municipal Loan Council (FMLC) loan with a Bank of America loan that resulted in more than $1.1M net present value (NPV) savings over the life span of the loan.
In February 2011, the City issued an advance refunding for the remaining portion of the original 1999 FMLC loan with a Bank of America loan that resulted in nearly a $530,000 net present value (NPV) savings over the life span of the loan.
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LIVING 26 Annual Report 2011 Community Services
he mission of the City of Aventura Community Services City parks provide Aventura residents a wide variety of amenities Department is to provide its residents with eminent quality and outdoor recreation opportunities to refresh, relax and recharge. Tparks, facilities, events, programs and activities reflecting Activities include: athletics, water playgrounds, picnics, exercising the City’s standards of excellence. and much more.
The Department provides recreational, cultural and leisure The 2011 Halloween Harvest attracted over 2,600 children and their activities, as well as management of the City’s parks, Community parents as they enjoy seasonal activities in a safe environment. Over Recreation Center, facilities, right of ways, streets, landscaping, 220 seniors danced the night away at the annual Senior Prom. beautification efforts and the Aventura Express bus shuttle service. The Community Services Department continues to Youth athletics’ calendar is year round and includes: tennis, soccer, use modern practices to respond to the needs of the City’s softball, t-ball, basketball, flag football, and Little League Baseball. In residents. In 2011, on average, 745 people per day visited a 2011, over 900 children participated in the City of Aventura Youth City park, the Community Recreational Center or enrolled in a Athletics. In addition, the City also offers adult softball leagues and recreation activity. tennis programs.
For its 14th consecutive year, the City was again named a Tree City Over 78,000 people visited the Aventura Community Recreation USA by the National Arbor Day Foundation. Center. The Center offers a complete and balanced program of recreation activities, fitness classes, youth programs and social The Community Services Department consists of two major activities available to members of all ages. Over 850 children operating divisions: Public Works and Parks and Recreation. registered for the 2011 Summer Camp program including Sports Camp and Travel Camp. The Public Works Division is responsible for: • Maintaining the City’s landscaping, streets, right of ways, Over 3,400 seniors participated in activities at the Community storm water drainage, decorative street lighting, banners and Recreation Center ranging from Mahjong to health and wellness informational signage, public buildings and schools. lectures. • Issuing Public Works permits to utilities performing improvements on the public right-of-ways and reviews engineering plans. The Aventura Express Shuttle Bus Service serves Aventura’s busy • Managing and maintaining all City owned buildings and facilities. lifestyle with a convenient schedule to better serve the community • Acting as a liaison to public utility service providers and responds with five ADA compliant and air conditioned buses. to citizen concerns related to the division. • Mapping resources with an automated GIS computer system to provide accurate information regarding zoning, land parcels and infrastructure.
The Parks and Recreation Division is responsible for: • Community Recreation Center programming. • Operating Founders Park, Founders Park SplashPad, Waterways Park, Waterways Dog Park and Veterans Park. • Youth and adult athletic leagues and programs. • Special events and programs fostering community pride and spirit including: Founders Day, Arbor Day, July 4th Fireworks and Veterans Day. • Cultural arts, theater and leisure programs designed for seniors which offers trips and tours to theaters, museums, historical places, art festivals and area restaurants.
27 LIVING come out to play he City of Aventura is home to plenty of open green Aventura’s Community Tspace. Aventura has parks, tennis courts, indoor & Recreation Center (CRC) outdoor basketball courts, playgrounds, fitness trails, a offers a wide range of dog park, SplashPad and open play fields. indoor activities. The CRC is equipped with a full-sized On the City’s north side is gym including a collegiate the seven-acre Waterways indoor basketball court; Park. The park has a covered fitness center; technology playground, fitness trail with center and a myriad of stations, an outdoor basketball classrooms to support court and multipurpose the recreation center’s classes and programs. The lighted athletic fields. Shade Aventura Activities eBrochure is available online can be found under the at cityofaventura.com and offers a complete list of covered patio and outdoor current classes and activities. The CRC has a fee-based shelter. Hours vary according membership which is required to use the facilities and to the season. For more participate in some of the classes. The membership fees information 305-466-8008. are based on household size and age groups.
Just east of Waterways Park is the Waterways Dog The eBrochure is the official guide for Park, a waterside park offering open space for dogs all recreational activities in the City of to socialize and exercise. Doggie amenities include two Aventura. The Cultural Arts Theater comfort stations with water fountains and showers. A and Leisure Program offers pre- large covered patio with benches provides a place for arranged activities including day trips to visitors to relax. An Aventura resident identification card visit area museums, see theatrical shows, is required for entry. Hours vary according to the season. and shopping excursions to Sawgrass For more information 305-466-8008. Mills Mall or the Festival Flea Market.
The City’s largest open green space is Founders Park. Arthur I. Snyder Park is a beautifully landscaped, The northern part of the park features the popular waterfront park adjacent to the Community Recreation interactive water feature playground, The SplashPad. Center. The park is named after Aventura’s first mayor, The SplashPad is a water playground for children and and features an outdoor plaza with an open quadrangle is open spring through early fall. The park is free for play area, trees to provide shade and covered areas. residents. Founders Park is also home to a multipurpose athletic field. In November 2010, the park’s playground was Veterans Park, south of N.E. 185th Street, has an open completely remodeled with brand new equipment and playfield, covered playground and an on-site restroom. four new sun-shelters. For more information 305-466-8556. The multipurpose park is ideal for relaxing or playing a casual game of soccer. The southern portion of Founders Park is Founders Park Bayside featuring two passive acres of open lawn Get outdoors and enjoy the parks! For more area facing the Intracoastal Waterway and a walkway. information, visit cityofaventura.com or follow the For more information 305-466-8556. City on Twitter @cityofaventura.
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LIVING get in the game
quick drive around Aventura shows this is a QuickStart Tennis, the new USTA format for beginning Acommunity with a passion for sports. The City features players ages 6-8 is offered at Founders Park. The new multipurpose athletic fields suitable for soccer, football, format is designed to make tennis approachable for younger baseball and softball. In addition to an outdoor basketball players. Junior tennis teaches the basics of the game for court at the Waterways Park and tennis courts at Founders children ages 9-12. Private tennis lessons are also available. Park. The Community Recreation Center is equipped with a full sized gym including a collegiate indoor basketball The City provides special sport skills training sessions for court. Aventura’s athletic programs are year-round and young athletes year round. Specialized sessions include consist of a variety of organized team and individual sports. soccer skills, strength & conditioning, Junior Punters and Football Funatics. From fall to spring, kids have the opportunity to participate in a variety of athletic sports including: flag football, girls’ Adults can get in on the softball, basketball, girls’ soccer, boys’ soccer, tennis and sports by joining a softball the Aventura Little League. Small sport clinics and classes league or participating are also available. in a round robin social setting playing tennis doubles. The adult tennis clinics provide instruction in all aspects of the game. Combining cardio and tennis, a new, high- energy, cardio tennis workout has been offered since 2011.
For details, view the Aventura Activities eBrochure at cityofaventura.com.
COMMUNITY SERVICES:
The collective support of parents, volunteer coaches and General Information: Founders Park: dedicated City staff creates an environment where children 305.466.8930 305.466.8556 can have fun and learn new skills. Aventura’s team sports follow the National Standards for Youth Sports to raise Community Waterways Park: awareness through leadership and education conducive for Recreation Center: 305.466.8008 teaching skills, physical fitness and positive self-esteem. 305.466.3883 League games are played at both Waterways and Founders Park. The fields at Waterways Park are lighted for evening games.
30
LIVING
Waterview STOP - Blue Express Route PASSENGER INFORMATION West Porta Vita The Point Hamptons STOP - Green Express Route
1. Smoking is not permitted. Turnberry One Island South Tower STOP - Red Express Route 2. Open food or drinks are not permitted. Place Turnberry 3. Buses stop only at designated stops. Towers STOP - Purple Express Route 4. Only service animals are permitted. NE 37TH AV Turnberry www.playgroundmaps.com Flamenco Turnberry Gatehouse © 2011 Playground Maps all rights reserved. 5. We have a strict no tipping policy. Village STOP - Yellow Express Route 6. All shuttle buses are equipped with NE 36TH CT Portsview East Country wheelchair lifts and bicycle racks. Club Drive/ Mystic Yacht Club 7. The Aventura Mall stop is located at Pointe
the lower level of Macy’s. Waterways El Dorado N COUNTRY CLUB DR Shoppes
8. See route schedule for Saturday night DR CLUB YACHT
service. Del Vista E COUNTRY CLUB DR NE 207TH ST 207TH NE
What Else Should I Know? YACHT CLUBWAY Riding the Aventura Express Transit System is free and easy! The attached map Mystic and schedule can provide the information to Harbor Ensenada Pointe 600 Village get you started! Hidden Bay
34 & Here’s How to Ride: NE 34TH CT Mariner Way Aventura Express HOTLINE Buses are divided into five routes: The Blue Aventura Parc 305-932-1BUS (1287) Dog Park route serves the north end of the City, the NE 34TH AV Bonavista Central Green and Red routes serve the central Community WEBSITE area and the Purple and Yellow routes Center www.cityofaventura.com Williams serve the south. Vi at Aventura EMAIL Island [email protected] Coronado Turnberry on Veterans Attention Library Patrons: Aventura Lakes Founders the Green Park Park NE 31ST Ave/ WILLIAMS ISLAND The Northeast Library is temporarily located Village by Aventura Express in the Aventura Government Center and is the Bay Hours of Operation open Mon-Fri 8:30 am - 5:00 pm. Take your N COUNTRY CLUB DR Monday through Friday regular bus to the Aventura Mall, and NE 213TH ST Blue, Green, Red, Purple Waterways Park transfer to the Purple bus. The Government 7:45 AM to 6:30 PM Biscayne Cove Yellow Center is the first stop. North Camden 8:45 AM to 6:30 PM Bravura ALL SATURDAY SERVICE Aventura NE 207TH ST 207TH NE STARTS AT 8:45 AM Bonavida Government Center
Villa Dorada Publix Admirals Port NE 188TH ST 188TH NE
N ST 190TH NE EXCEPT THE FOLLOWING E 2 1 0 HOLIDAYS: T Aventura Mall H
S Point East T * New Year's Day * Biscaya NE 185TH ST * Thanksgiving Day * Walgreens Del Prado NE 29TH PL Loehmman’s /Publix * Christmas Day * Wachovia NE 29TH CT Bank Aventura Commons/ Sterling Y Our mission is to C Target N Commodore A Imperial Club M Plaza provide you with H E L
Bi NE 209TH ST M scayn Promanade comfortable, friendly e W Blvd Shops NE 187TH ST
Walgreens/ Pier 1 ST 183RD NE and efficient service.
D V Aventura Plaza
L Fresh Market
B
NE 201ST TE 201ST NE A
Mount R lvd City of Aventura
U yne B T a
Sinai Bisc N Community Services Department
Biscayne E V
Lake Gardens A 19200 West Country Club Drive Aventura Aventura, FL 33180 Hospital lvd yne B Bisca Schedule E ective
Miami Gardens Drive February 7, 2011
32 AVENTURA EXPRESS BUS SERVICE by Playground Maps Waterview When do the buses run? STOP - Blue Express Route PASSENGER INFORMATION West Porta Vita Monday through Friday: The Point Hamptons Blue, Green, Red, Purple: 7:45am to 6:30pm STOP - Green Express Route Yellow: 8:45am to 6:30pm 1. Smoking is not permitted. Turnberry Saturday: All Routes 8:45am to 9:30pm One Island South Tower STOP - Red Express Route 2. Open food or drinks are not permitted. Place There is no Express Bus service on the following holidays: Turnberry 3. Buses stop only at designated stops. Towers STOP - Purple Express Route Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day & New Year’s Day. 4. Only service animals are permitted. NE 37TH AV Turnberry www.playgroundmaps.com Flamenco Turnberry Gatehouse © 2011 Playground Maps all rights reserved. 5. We have a strict no tipping policy. Village STOP - Yellow Express Route Where are the bus stops located? Are these bus stops drop- 6. All shuttle buses are equipped with NE 36TH CT off/pick-up locations? Portsview East Country wheelchair lifts and bicycle racks. Club Drive/ Mystic Bus stops are located throughout the City, and all are for drop-off Yacht Club 7. The Aventura Mall stop is located at Pointe and pick-up. For specific bus stop locations, visit cityofaventura.com the lower level of Macy’s. Waterways El Dorado N COUNTRY CLUB DR to view and/or download the Express Bus service maps. Shoppes
8. See route schedule for Saturday night DR CLUB YACHT service. Del Vista E COUNTRY CLUB DR
May I bring my bicycle on the bus? NE 207TH ST 207TH NE
What Else Should I Know? YACHT CLUBWAY Yes. All buses are equipped with bike racks. Riding the Aventura Express Transit System is free and easy! The attached map Mystic May I connect with county buses? and schedule can provide the information to Harbor Ensenada Pointe 600 Yes. All Express Buses stop at the Aventura Mall, and this is where Village get you started! Hidden Bay you can connect with Miami-Dade and Broward County buses.
34 & Here’s How to Ride: NE 34TH CT Mariner Way AventuraHow often Express does HOTLINE the bus come to the Aventura Mall? Buses are divided into five routes: The Blue Aventura Parc Each305-932-1BUS Express Bus (1287) stops at the Mall every hour. For example, the route serves the north end of the City, the Dog Park Bonavista Central NE 34TH AV Yellow bus starts its route from the Mall on weekdays at 8:45am, Green and Red routes serve the central Community WEBSITE area and the Purple and Yellow routes Center www.cityofaventura.comand returns to the mall at 9:45am. Williams serve the south. Vi at Aventura EMAIL Island [email protected] time does the last scheduled Express Bus leave the Mall? Coronado Turnberry on Veterans Attention Library Patrons: Aventura Lakes Founders the Green Park Park NE 31ST Ave/ WILLIAMS ISLAND ROUTE DAY LAST SERVICE The Northeast Library is temporarily located Aventura Express Village by All routes Monday – Saturday 5:45pm in the Aventura Government Center and is the Bay Hours of Operation open Mon-Fri 8:30 am - 5:00 pm. Take your N COUNTRY CLUB DR MondaySaturday through Night Friday Saturday Night 8pm regular bus to the Aventura Mall, and NE 213TH ST Blue,Express Green, bus (North Red, Purpleroute) Waterways Park 7:45 AM to 6:30 PM transfer to the Purple bus. The Government Saturday Night Saturday Night 8:15pm Biscayne Cove Yellow Center is the first stop. North Express bus (South route) Camden 8:45 AM to 6:30 PM Bravura ALL SATURDAY SERVICE Aventura Where is the Express bus stop located at the mall? NE 207TH ST 207TH NE STARTS AT 8:45 AM Bonavida Government The bus stop for the Express Buses is located outside Macy’s east Center
Villa Dorada Publix Admirals Port lower level entrance. NE 188TH ST 188TH NE
N ST 190TH NE EXCEPT THE FOLLOWING E 2 1 0 HOLIDAYS: T Aventura Mall H
S Point East Does the bus go to the Aventura library? T * New Year's Day * Biscaya Yes. Take your regular Express Bus to the Mall and transfer to the NE 185TH ST * Thanksgiving Day * Walgreens Del Prado Purple* Christmas bus. Its firstDay route* stop is Government Center, the temporary NE 29TH PL Loehmman’s /Publix home for the Northeast library branch. Wachovia NE 29TH CT Bank Aventura Commons/ Sterling Y Our mission is to Target C How much does the bus cost? N Commodore A Imperial Club M Plaza provideThe City of youAventura with offers free Express Bus service. H E L
Bi NE 209TH ST M scayn Promanade comfortable, friendly e W Blvd Shops NE 187TH ST How do I know which route stops near my home?
Walgreens/ Pier 1 ST 183RD NE and efficient service.
D The routes cover the following areas: V Aventura Plaza
L Fresh Market
B
NE 201ST TE 201ST NE
A Blue serves Northern Aventura; Mount R lvd City of Aventura
U yne B T a
Sinai Bisc N Community Services Department
Biscayne E Green | Red serve Central Aventura; V
Lake Gardens A 19200 West Country Club Drive Aventura Aventura,Purple | FLYellow 33180 serve Southern Aventura. Hospital lvd yne B Bisca ScheduleFor your convenience, E ective maps are available online (visit the Residents section of cityofaventura.com), or pick up a hard-copy in the
Miami Gardens Drive FebruaryGovernment Center’s7, 2011 lobby, 19200 West Country Club Drive.
33
LIVING ALPHABET CITY ∕/ Aventura is the Best City to live, work and play. And with this A to Z guide it is easy to see why Aventura is the City of Excellence.
Auto care is serious Canine business living in in South Aventura is Florida. easy. Just AEuropean Auto check out Service is perfect to Cour happy cover models keep your car in tip-top enjoying an afternoon at shape. Give your car extra the lovely Waterways TLC at Aventura’s Finest Dog Park. And after Hand Car Wash or at working up an appetite, the days-gone-by full service Mobil station at the corner take a seat at several of Biscayne and 191st street. Service is what it is all about of the establishments – at Meguiar’s Car Wash hidden behind the station. And Barrio Latino, for those with a Lexus in the driveway, Lexus of North Mr. Chef, Starbucks, Tutti Frutti, Bagelworks, Miami offers you a tune up at its private spa & salon while Mo’s and Zuckerello’s – with outdoor seating. The your car its the necessary repair attention. If you want perfect place for you and fido share a bite. Need to go all the way and buy a new set of wheels Warren assistance in your canine’s upkeep? Petco, Petsmart, Henry Auto has a nice selection − Volvos, Land Rovers, Hundschens’ Grooming and Rio’s Pet Spa all Infinitis, Jaguars and Lamborghinis. offer beauty appointments. If you want your pooch to become a covermodel, go for a private photo shoot, no one can do it better than Doggy Studio.
BBeautiful bodies can be found in abundance in Aventura. And it is because of all the clubs, studios & fitness centers in the area. The specialized studio offerings include: The Pilates Room and Renee Ricca’s for Pilates, the Aventura Tennis Fitness Academy at Bally Total Fitness, Orangetheory and Yoga Rosa for Donate gently used items and all the those who want to strike a pose. If you consider training clothes in the back of your closet on the links a workout, the pros at the Turnberry Isle that will never see the light of day Miami will get your swing in perfect form. For those who to Goodwill. A trailer accepting all like their workouts to include weights, elliptical trainers and donations couldn’t make it easier, as it treadmills membership at Equinox, Olympia Gym and isD open 7 days-a-week and is conveniently located in Bally Total Fitness will make sure you get the workout you the Aventura Mall’s parking lot. deserve.
35 LIVING ALPHABET CITY
Everything Home improvement you could and design is easy with possibly need the mix of resources for the visiting at your fingertips. grandchildren.E HFrom the big jobs like retiling and Somewhere to keep painting to sprucing things up them busy on a rainy with knick-knacks and furniture day, no problem – Pier 1, Artefacto, Addison Chuck E. Cheese – is filled Contemporary Furniture, with games and pizza. Want to Bloomingdale’s, Crate and get the hair out of their eyes? Get Barrel, West Elm, Pottery Barn, a quick trim at Cut-N-Play and Macy’s Furniture and Accents Snip-Its. Promised them a little have nice selections. For bigger something…Learning Express remodeling jobs of floors, cabinets, countertops and Give Wink have so much to Extreme Surfaces’ architects and designers choose from. can offer assistance.
Friends from up Indulge with sweets & treats. Frozen yogurt and north are sure to ice cream can be had at Tutti Frutti, Pinkberry, remain friends Haagen-Dazs, Cold Stone Creamery and when you have Tasti-D-Lite. Looking for a treat to go with a cup themF stay at a local hotel I of coffee, Starbucks, or resort. The crème de Misha’s Cupcakes, la crème, Turnberry Isle Alisa’s Painted Bistro, Miami has everything to The Cheesecake pamper from a luxurious Factory, Mrs. Fields [email protected] misha!/ www.mishascupcakes.com spa, tennis courts golf Original Cookies and course, private beach We Take the Cake club, top-tier restaurant offer a wide assortment misha’s cafe at riviera plaza 1548 south dixie highway to a kids’ club. For those who only want a few amenities of sumptuous treats. coral gables, fl 33146 from home, there is the Courtyard Marriott and the 786.200.6153 Residence Inn at the Aventura Mall. aventura london square miami lakes Get gorgeous with Just a little discount 18797 biscayne boulevard 13440 sw 120th street 15368 nw 79th court assistance from or in some cases a aventura, fl 33180 miami, fl 33186 miami lakes, fl 33014 305.792.5030 786.573.9700 305.819.1889 iSalon, GBS The major cut in price Beauty Store, are offered GSeven Seas Spa/Newport Jat Loehmann’s, find us on facebook and twitter Beachside Hotel & Resort, Marshalls, allergy information: prepared on equipment that processes egg, peanuts, tree nuts, wheat. Wellstream Spa, Viva Beleza Nordstrom Rack, Salon, Lewen Cosmetic DSW, Artefacto Center and Salon Sepia. The Outlet and Ross men can get a little tidy up at – and to think, Sir Luxury Barber Shop, Art all are within the of the Shave and Myles & city limits. Lyles Barbershop. And what beautiful face doesn’t deserve the perfect frame? Nothing can spruce up your look then a new pair of eyeglasses. Eye Optics Aventura has a wide selection of designer, trendy and classic designs. For a little help losing those extra pounds, the Center for Medical Weightloss offers a variety of solutions.
36
LIVING ALPHABET CITY
Kosher foods are at the ready at a variety of markets Openings of and restaurants. Kosher Kingdom, Sarah’s Tent new restaurants and Jacob’s Classic Market are great stand-ins and eateries in for the traditional supermarket. For a meal Aventura include: theK range is wide, from the healthy Fresko OBagelworks for the brunch to the quick grab-n-go Pita Plus and & bagel crowd, Bella Luna Kosher Subway to global cuisine at perfect for Sunday night family China Bistro and Thai Treat. dinner Italian style, Slices for a pie or two and Sicilian Oven for wood fire gourmet pizzas. The Waterways’ located Barrio Latino just Lifelong learning is so opened Havana’s in nearby North Miami. important. The City of Aventura offers adult & Parks are sure to senior classes in everything get you out to play. Lfrom Cross Fit to bridge to There is Founders introduction to computers. Miami Park with a fabulous Dade College’s North Campus Pcovered playground and is located in Aventura. And the interactive water park for Kovens Conference Center on the children. It also has 3 tennis Biscayne Bay Campus of FIU offers courts, a multipurpose athletic a wide selection of continuing and field and shelters available for professional studies programs as well as serving as the home party rentals. Veterans Park for the Osher Lifelong Learning program with enrichment has a covered playground and courses for those 50+ . open play fields while the Waterways Park has a basketball court. Medical needs are sure to be met. Quick workouts For immediate are easy with the attention the 3-mile Don Soffer Memergency rooms at the Exercise Trail with Aventura Hospital & Medical Q its chilled water Center or Mount Sinai fountains. Founders Emergency Room are open Park’s fitness trail was just 24/7. In need of a primary care physician or specialist, the decorated with new exercise stations. The Community selection is great from Cardiovascular Consultants to the Recreation Center has a multipurpose gymnasium, Lewen Cosmetic Center which specializes in oculoplastic fitness center, exercise & dance rooms and an extensive surgery – focusing exclusively on eye- and brow-lifts. And we all array of recreational classes and programs. For those know we can’t neglect our teeth and gums. Full-service general who would rather do some walking indoors, the and cosmetic experts like Dr. Randy Freedline and Dr. José Aventura Mall offers The Walking Club Tuesday & Alvarez bound make it too hard to forget to schedule a regular Thursday mornings. check up and to floss daily. Real estate is at a Nothing is more premium in the City. enjoyable than If you’re interested waiting for a in selling your condo performance to thereR are plenty of real estate Nbegin. The Aventura Arts agents including Lori Fein, & Cultural Center offers an Magda Saltzman, Judy Luck abundance of city culture in a Jordan and Sherry Bittman. community setting. If you’re looking to buy the offerings are plentiful with uber-luxury condos along the Exercise Trail to the likes of Lincoln Pointe with its fabulous waterfront location.
38
LIVING ALPHABET CITY
Shop ‘til you drop at Under most circumstances you can find what the Aventura Mall. you are looking for within the City of Aventura. Bloomingdale’s, Need a book to read? Pick one up at Barnes & Nordstroms, Noble. Need a nosh? Mo’s and Bagelworks’ Macy’sS, Macy’s Men, Udoors are open. Need a wedding gift? Take a trip to Target Sears and JCPenney are or Williams Sonoma. Inspired to make a gourmet meal? the Mall’s major anchors. Pick up what you need at Whole Foods and The Fresh There are also chic Market. Tech toys aren’t working? Apple Store, AT&T boutiques from Louis Vuitton to Stuart Weitzman to will get you reconnected. Calvin Klein. There is a food court and an abundance of eateries− The Cheesecake Factory, Grand Lux Café, Village at and The Grill on the Alley are all in the mix. There is also Gulfstream a full-service AMC Movie Theatre. Park is the perfect Take Lehman Causeway to take advantage of all neighbor.V In addition to Sunny Isles Beach offers. There is public access its exciting horse track, to the beach across the street from parks and it offers a selection of playgrounds. Epicure Gourmet Market can assist dining establishments inT planning a beach picnic for two or a feast for 40. Eateries and shops. Definitely from the home-grown Tony Roma’s to Timo, the perfect check out the home corridor where West Elm, Crate neighborhood bistro to a fast food strip of the usual locales & Barrel, Pottery Barn and The Container Store are – McDonald’s, Burger King, KFC, Einstein’s Bagels can located. This neighbor is a night owl and will easily keep you easily be found. There is also a plethora of fitness and yoga out past your bedtime with its collection of nightclubs, bars studios,Mail Boxes-7.25x4.75_1011:Layout salons & spas, little boutiques &1 shops 10/12/11 as well 4:56 as the PM Pageand 1 lounges. expected Publix, CVS, Milan’s Market and Navarro’s.
40 18800 NE 29th Ave, Suite 10 Aventura, FL 33130
41 LIVING ALPHABET CITY
Waterway Shoppes is a boutique style You need to shopping area neatly tucked away in make sure you Aventura; but definitely deserves some take time for extra attention. Its offering of more than yourself. This 25W stores, restaurants and waterway vistas of the isY so easy with all the luxury yachts docked at the deep water marina is a shops & day spas in great way to spend a late afternoon. FYI: it is also home the Aventura Mall and to a little U.S. Post Office. the great stand alone boutiques & salons X-tras are the scattered throughout things that the city. Here are just help to make a few to get you going life a lot nicer. --SoMi, On My Own, XAventura certainly Swimland, King’s Jewelers, Sports Authority, provides a few. From Bellini, Salon Sepia and Coco Day Spa. the community invited Founders Day Zest for life is essential. To keep your joie de Celebration to a free vivre take a spin around the dance floor at Fred ride on the Aventura Astaire Dance Studio Aventura. For a bit Express Bus. And what more hip action Aventura Dance Studio will other City can say it teachZ you the moves to get in shape with hip-hop, belly has its own Arts & dancing, Latin fitness and Bachata, a type of dance Cultural Center? with origins in the Dominican Republic.
42 ARTS & CULTURE 44 Annual Report 2011 AVENTURA ARTS & CULTURAL CENTER
he Aventura Arts & Cultural Center (AACC) successfully completed its first season with Ta plethora of diverse programming, including contemporary and Latin dance, ballet, Latin and traditional jazz, classical and contemporary music, a foreign films series, as well as shows the whole family can enjoy. Meeting its operational budget, the center opened its inaugural year with over 170 performances and surpassed 30,000 in attendance.
Under the direction of the Broward Center for the Performing Arts and the Performance Project team, the AACC offered its annual summer camp. The AACC administered two sold out camp sessions which offered programs comprised of various elements of the theater and were designed to accommodate children ages 7-13. Campers performed in 4 theatrical productions held at the AACC. For the 2011-2012 season, the AACC is continuing its mission to provide the community with diversified In order to meet its educational objective, The Aventura programming. In addition, AACC continues to build its Arts & Cultural Center partners with the Aventura City relationship with the Aventura School of Excellence of Excellence School and the Broward Center for the to further enhance educational programming. Performing Arts Center to bring to the stage the Smart Stage educational programs throughout the school The AACC’s box office is open Tuesday – Saturday year. In addition, the AACC hosts other educational 12:00pm – 5:00pm, and 1½ hours prior to the start programs including: spelling bees, the school’s of the performances. For more information, visit winter concert, drama productions, the spring talent aventuracenter.org. showcase and graduation.
AVENTURA ARTS & CULTURAL CENTER: General Information: Facility Rental: Tickets: 305.466.8002 305.466.8005 877.311.7469 (SHOW)
45 AVENTURA ARTS & CULTURAL CENTER FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
When is the box office open? The box office is open Tuesday - Saturday 12pm – 5pm and 1½ hours prior to the start of a performance.
I purchased tickets to an event, but now I can’t attend. What do I do? All ticket sales are final. Once a sale is completed, there are no refunds or exchanges for ticketed events; however, we are happy to work with you so that someone else, such as a friend or family member, may use your tickets. For more information, contact us at 877-311-7469 to speak with one of our friendly customer service representatives.
I am in a wheelchair or have difficulty with steps. Where will my seats be located? The Aventura Arts & Cultural Center is fully compliant with ADA rules and regulations. We have wheelchair accessible seating in rows A and L to accommodate your needs and allow you to completely enjoy the presentations. These seats are available on our website or can be reserved by contacting our call center at 877-311-7496.
When I placed my ticket order, I requested for my tickets to arrive by mail, but they did not arrive. What should I do? Unless you request box office pick-up, tickets purchased at least 14 days prior to an event will be mailed to the address you provided at the time of purchase. Tickets ordered less than 14 days prior to the event will automatically be held at the box office.
If you believe your tickets were mailed and you did not receive them, please contact us at 954-462-0222 or toll free at 877-311-7469. We will be happy to arrange a lost ticket pass for you. To pick up your pass, present a picture ID at the box office window 1½ hours prior to curtain.
I live outside the continental United States. How will I receive my tickets? We do not mail tickets outside the continental United States. We will automatically hold your tickets at the box office for pick-up during regular business hours or on the day of the event. To claim your tickets, please present a picture ID at the box office window.
46 47 ARTS & CULTURE from aventura to broadway
merican theater has a long for the Performing Arts and The experience. The Acting UP Atradition of summer stock− Performance Project School Program (ages 6 – 11) is for where actors practice their of the Arts Team, is designed campers who are new to the craft during the off-season. to spark interest, sharpen performing arts. The Broadway Aventura’s young, aspiring, performance skills and develop Bound Program (ages 9 – 14) theatrical stars get to practice self-confidence. is for campers who have prior their craft at the Aventura Arts stage experience. At the end & Cultural Center’s Summer During each four-week session, of each session, campers Theatre Camp 2012. The camp campers receive instruction in participate in a live theatrical is designed to provide the various elements of theater. performance. ultimate theatrical experience They will learn about musical to children ages 6 –14. theater, dance (tap, jazz, and The stage is set to begin ballet), voice, music, technical inspiring tomorrow’s theatrical The structure of Summer production and acting. Campers performers June 25, 2012. Theatre Camp, a partnership are divided into two groups For more information, visit between the Broward Center according to age and prior aventuracenter.org.
48 WORKING 50 Annual Report 2011 Community Development
he Community Development Department is responsible for the City of Aventura’s planning, Tdevelopment review, zoning, building plan reviews, inspections, code enforcement, economic development functions and the issuance of local business tax receipts (formerly occupational licenses). The department is organized to provide one-stop customer service at a centralized location.
The Building Division continues to provide prompt and accessible service. It is charged with enforcing the Florida Building Code, division reviews, issues permits and inspects all new construction and renovations in the City. Last year, the Building Division issued 4,465 building permits and performed 7,903 inspections. Building permits generated approximately $1,552,324 in City’s infrastructure and quality of life. The goals and revenues. Inspection requests and results are available objectives of the Comprehensive Plan, also referred through the ePermits section of cityofaventura.com. to as the Master Plan or General Plan, are restated as specific planning and zoning regulations in the City’s The Local Business Tax Receipt Division issued 2,776 local Land Development Regulations. These documents business tax receipts generating approximately $772,821 are updated from time to time to reflect current in revenues. community goals.
The Planning and Zoning Division processes all land- The Code Compliance Division ensures businesses are development applications, including site plans, legally operating with local business tax receipts, and re-zonings, variances and comprehensive plan assures necessary building permits are being obtained amendments. In 2011, there were 14 land development for construction at either residences or businesses. applications reviewed and processed. Code Compliance Officers also enforce City codes such as the property maintenance ordinance, and noise and The City’s Comprehensive Plan and Land Development signage regulations. The Code Compliance Division Regulations provide a cohesive blueprint for issued 153 warnings and violations last year and development and redevelopment of the City. The collected approximately $15,300 in fines. blueprint addresses strategies to accommodate growth while maintaining neighborhood integrity, ensuring This division continues to work with property owners to appropriate height, transitions and linkages, limiting the clean up overgrown vacant properties and bring them intensity of future development and redevelopment in into compliance with the City’s property maintenance a manner that is consistent with current development ordinance. The division’s efforts result in a cleaner and patterns, and minimizes further negative impacts to the safer environment for the City.
51 WORKING local business tax guide nyone operating a business within Business Filing Additional Requirements Athe City of Aventura is required Requirements Include: May Include: to have a Certificate of Use and file a Local Business Tax application (formerly • Certificate of Use and Occupancy • Professions regulated by the known as the Occupational License). (home-based businesses excluded). Department of Business and The tax receipts are required to be Professional Regulation must submit renewed annually before October 1; • Declaration of Use (home-based a current state license. For more Fees for these filings are determined by businesses excluded). information, 850.487.1395. the type of business or profession. • Legal description of property (home- • Retail and wholesale merchants All new Business Tax Receipt applicants based businesses excluded). must complete and file an Affidavit of require a DPERA (Department of Merchants Inventory, indicating average Permitting, Environment and Regulatory • Federal Employer Identification or value of inventory maintained by business. Affairs) approval and a Water and Social Security Number. Sewer Notice of Compliance per Miami • Restaurant owners must file a current Dade County. For more information, • Proof of current Fictitious Name state license with the Department of 305.372.6899, miamidade.gov/pera. Registration from the State Division of Business and Professional Regulation. Corporations. For more information, For more information, 305.470.5680. Who Needs To File Business Taxes? 850.487.6058, sunbiz.org. Any person, firm, association, or What Is The Penalty For Operating corporation maintaining a business • Proof of Articles of Incorporation. A Business Without Filing? location or branch office within the City For more information, 850.245.6052, Operating a business without a current of Aventura’s city limits for the privilege sunbiz.org. local business tax filing starts with a of engaging in or managing a business, fine of $250 but can escalate to closure profession, or occupation within the City. of the business and imprisonment. building permits Are the building permit • A completed application, including When is a permit required? forms available online? notarized signatures of the owner In accordance with Section 105.1 All City of Aventura building permit and qualifier. of Florida Building Code: Permit, a forms are available in the Document • Two (2) sets of plans drawn to scale permit is required for: Central section of cityofaventura.com. and signed and sealed by a professional • Ensuring consumers that the work is when required by Code. properly being done and appropriate May I schedule inspections • Two (2) surveys as required if necessary materials are being used. A licensed and check the status of my for some types of review. contractor is required to obtain permits. permit online? • Two (2) sets of calculations as required by • General maintenance and repairs Yes. The ePermits system is available Code - these may include energy calculations, exceeding $500 in labor and materials. to schedule inspections and to check heating/cooling load calculations, and/or • For projects modifying a building’s the status of permit applications. structural load calculations. existing structure in any way (including • Two (2) sets of Product Approvals as tile, wood flooring and marble). Do I need to file a Notice required by Code - these may include roofs, • Any electrical work, including of Commencement? utility sheds, windows, exterior doors, installation of ceiling fans. Yes. A Notice of Commencement awnings, shutters, skylights, trusses, etc. • Replacement of an air conditioner is required if the value of the • A letter from condominium association unit (heat load calculations required). project exceeds $2,500. approving work being done on a unit with • Installation of a water heater. permit applications. • Changing or connecting a toilet or How can I expedite • A letter from contractor requesting sink, shower or bathtub fixture. review of my permit? expedited review and agreeing to pay Reviews may be expedited by any additional costs associated with the submitting the following: expedited review.
52 53 54 Annual Report 2011 Information Technology
he City of Aventura’s Information Technology (IT) Department provides a secure, stable T and high-tech computing environment for City staff. The computing environment includes software, hardware, network infrastructure and telephone systems.
The IT Department performs software support and maintenance for specialized business applications and email with spam control. IT works closely with City departments to identify, select and implement cost-effective technology solutions enabling City staff to deliver reliable service.
The department supports 165 desktop computers, In 2011, the City of Aventura continued using 90 laptops, 7 touch-screen tablets and 35 servers computer and network innovations to increase throughout the City. Help desk services are operational effectiveness. Upgrades were made provided 24/7 for City departments. to existing software applications and computer equipment incorporating new technology where Information Technology completed many major appropriate. projects. These included: IT continues its contribution to greening efforts • Initial redesign of the of the City of with its server virtualization project, allowing Aventura’s website. the City to reduce the number of physical servers while increasing the number of servers • Deployment of a mobile computer lab with available to support computer operations. touch-screen tablet computers (iPads) for Virtualization reduces electrical and air conditioning the students and faculty at Aventura City of requirements in the data center resulting in lower Excellence School (ACES). energy use and costs.
• Electronic transfer of traffic ticket IT continues to provide web development services information to Miami-Dade County’s record to streamline both internal and external business system. processes. This includes development and maintenance of the City’s website, cityofaventura.com; • Review and implementation of cloud- the Aventura City of Excellence School’s website, based application solutions when aventuracharter.org; the Aventura Arts and Cultural appropriate. Center’s website, aventuracenter.org and an intranet for employees. IT also offers employee software • Upgrades to the public safety applications training and instruction for computing issues such as used by police officers in the field. email, viruses and security.
55 Annual Report 2011 CITY COMMUNICATIONS
he City Commission supports a highly accessible For those on the road, the City also uses digital signs in government and encourages community participation. two locations to communicate events or other information. TThe City of Aventura shares information using both Drivers are able to get information about upcoming shows at traditional and innovative methods to expand its reach into the the Aventura Arts and Cultural Center, reminded to subscribe community. to the Aventura City of Excellence School (ACES) e-news, and encouraged to follow both the City of Aventura and the In 2011, the City produced several online and print Cultural Center on Twitter. publications. The essential need to share government services’ valuable information never changes; however, in The City still relies on traditional communications through order to lower environmental impact and cost, communication radio, TV and in person meetings. The radio station, 1650 AM, efforts are redesigned to reduce hard-copy printing. broadcasts information about local traffic, special events and recreational activities. The City operates three external websites (cityofaventura.com, aventuracharter.org, and aventuracenter.org) which continue The City’s cable channel (AVTV) remains an important avenue to be the hub of all digital, city-related information. for communication to City residents. AVTV broadcasts on Comcast cable channel 77, and runs listings of City events, The City also continues its communication reach into the programs and resources for its residents 24/7. AVTV’s diverse community by utilizing the social media platform, Twitter. programming includes a satellite feed from the Florida Twitter is a useful tool for communicating timely information Channel, and an encore presentation of special events and such as sports game cancellations or to announce upcoming commission meetings. City events. The City Manager meets with the owners of new businesses The City’s Twitter followers reached nearly 1,800 by the end of located in Aventura on a regular basis at “Meet Your City the year; a 50% increase of new followers. The City’s tweets Manager” meetings. The City Commission meets monthly and inform residents, visitors and businesses about City meetings, encourages community participation at its meetings. events, services, and government center closures; traffic alerts; Aventura City of Excellence School information and Regularly held on the first Tuesday of the month, City upcoming Aventura Arts & Cultural Center shows. Providing Commission meetings begin at 6pm in the Commission greater access to this information, The City’s latest tweet is Chambers at the Aventura Government Center, 19200 West simultaneously posted on the home page of the City’s website. Country Club Drive.
eGovernment Online Services The City of Aventura provides several eGovernment services through its websites: For Speed And • Online Registration System (ORS) – Register for Convenience recreational activities, classes and programs. • ePermits – Check building permits status and The City of Aventura is inspection appointments. deeply committed to its • MyAventura – Sign up to receive e-Notifications City websites: mission of innovative about the City’s latest news. cityofaventura.com delivery of services to • Service Requests – Make a customer service aventuracharter.org its community. Online request for City service. aventuracenter.org services bring convenience • FAQs – Review a listing of city-related frequently and increased accessibility. asked questions. The City is continually • Public Records – The City’s public document repository. searching for new ways to • Document Central – A library of downloadable improve its services. electronic forms available in PDF format. • Online Ticket Purchase – Purchase tickets for all shows and events at aventuracenter.org.
56 KEEP IN TOUCH On the Internet cityofaventura.com: The official website for the City of Aventura. This is home for all City related information regarding its government, resources, forms and eGovernment features. aventuracharter.org: The website for the Aventura City of Excellence School. The K-8 charter school has everything online for parents and students including its popular Google calendar to stay current on the school’s latest events and special days. aventuracenter.org: The website for the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center provides detailed show information and offers the ability to purchase tickets.
@cityofaventura: The official Twitter handle for the City of Aventura functions as an additional portal for the City to disseminate up-to-the-minute information about City events and breaking news. The City’s latest tweet is available on its website.
@aventuracenter: The official Twitter feed for the Aventura Arts and Cultural Center. Provides instant updates on performances and ticket sale alerts.
On the Go The City’s website dynamically presents a mobile version for smart phone users to easily find City information.
On the Tube Comcast Channel 77 is home to Aventura TV (AVTV), the City’s information channel. AVTV runs listings of City events, programs and resources for its residents 24/7. Programming provided by The Florida Channel offers educational shows about Florida history and Florida legislative news. Presentations of City meetings and events are also broadcast.
On the Airwaves The City of Aventura’s information radio broadcasts on 1650 AM. The AM station keeps the community informed with traffic alerts, recreational program information and public safety messages.
57 2012 city of aventura CALENDAR OF EVENTS
March – June Friday, June 8 Wednesday, September 26 Sunday, November 11 Little League T-Ball, Softball Teacher Planning Day Teacher Planning Day 17th Annual Founders Day and Baseball / Waterways Community Community Founders Park and Founders Parks Recreation Center Recreation Center sunday, November 11 Thursday, March 29 Monday, June 11 MONday, october 22 Veterans Day Ceremony GO GREEN Recognition Summer Camps begin Fall Session for classes 10AM Awards and Symposium Community Recreation and programs begins December 24 – Aventura Government Center Center Friday, October 26 January 4, 2013 Friday, March 30 Wednesday, July 4 Teacher Planning Day Winter Camp Teacher Planning Day Fireworks 9 PM along East Community Community Community and West Country Club Drives Recreation Center Recreation Center Recreation Center MONday, August 27 Sunday, October 28 For more information Friday, April 6 Fall Session for classes Halloween Harvest visit cityofaventura.com Teacher Planning Day and programs begins Community or call Community August – October Recreation Center Community Services Recreation Center Youth Flag Football tuesday, November 6 Department Friday, April 27 Waterways Park Teacher Planning Day 305-466-8930 Arbor Day 10 AM August – October Community Community Recreation Aventura Arts & Girls Softball Recreation Center Center Cultural Center Founders Park November – December 305-466-3883 Saturday, May 19 MONday, September 17 Youth Basketball Senior Prom / Community Teacher Planning Day Community Waterways Park Recreation Center Community Recreation Center 305-466-8008 Monday, June 4 Recreation Center November – March Founders Park Summer Session for classes Girls Soccer 305-466-8556 and programs begin Waterways & Founders Park
58 59 60 FUTURE Annual Report 2011 Budget Priorities/ Goals
he following represents the pre-established Tpriorities and goals that provided a framework for the preparation of the 2011/12 Budget Plan:
• Avoid increasing the property tax rate in light of the economic times our residents and businesses are experiencing.
• Bridge the revenue gap by utilizing reserve funds to support nonrecurring capital improvements.
• In response to decreased revenues, limit increases in operating costs to 2% while maintaining current service levels and programs.
• Continue to adopt GO GREEN initiatives in order to save energy, conserve precious natural resources and reduce our impact on climate change. These initiatives over time will also reduce our annual operating cost and impacts on the environment.
• Provide funding to maintain landscaped areas and the City’s infrastructure to continue to provide a high quality maintenance program.
• Continue to utilize technology to improve productivity and lower costs of providing services.
• Implement and fund the “pay as you go” Capital Improvement Program to address the City’s infrastructure needs.
62 Annual Report 2011 Budget Highlights
Some of the major points emphasized, in the proposed budget, are as follows:
• For the 16th year, no property tax increase. • Continues to implement technology enhancements that develop our Electronic • Total expenditures in all funds decreased by 11.8%. Government (eGovernment) to allow the public to interact more easily and conveniently with • The operating cost increases were held to less the City and to automate City operations. than 2.0% without reduction in current service levels or lay offs of employees. • Continues outside contracting of most maintenance functions, engineering, plan review • Approximately $504,000 was utilized from the and inspection services, as well as the operation City’s reserve funds to balance the budget and fund of the Arts & Cultural Center to the private sector. nonrecurring capital projects. • Funds $1,384,500 for police equipment needs from • Fund Phase 2 for upgrading the street lighting on laptop computers to new police vehicles. the eastside of Biscayne Boulevard. • Includes $200,000 to upgrade the City’s • Includes $74,000 for improvements to Founders drainage system. Park including replacing exercise equipment, pour in place surfacing and shade covers for bleachers. • Continues to adopt GO GREEN initiatives in order to save energy, conserve precious • Funds $608,000 to resurface NE 31th Avenue/NE natural resources and reduce City’s impact on 185th Street, NE 188th Street and a portion of NE climate change. 191st Street.
63 THEN & NOW
2000 2010 City of Aventura Total Population 25,267 35,762 Age Distribution Under 20 11% 17% 20-34 18% 19% 35-54 24% 26% 55-64 12% 13% 65+ 35% 26% Population Under 18 2,564 5,522
Ethnic Distribution White (non-Hispanic) 73.1% 57.9% Hispanic 20.7% 35.8% African AMERICAN 1.7% 3.9% Other 4.5% 2.4%
Housing Occupancy Seasonal & VACANT 6,020 8,228 Renter OCCUPIED 3,956 6,136 Owner OCCUPIED 10,044 11,756 Avg. Household SIZE 1.79 1.99 Avg. Family SIZE 2.45 2.66
Based on U.S. Census Bureau, Profile of General Demographic Characteristics 2000 & 2010 for Aventura, FL
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