News Flash

City of South Miami FY-26/27

Marshall Williamson Scholarship Program

The City of South Miami offers residents of South Miami this scholarship to assist aspiring youth. The Marshall Williamson scholarship program was established to honor former City of South Miami activists from the Marshall Williamson area. This year’s scholarship awards will be announced in the month May 2026. 

 POTENTIAL APPLICANTS:                               

Residents of the City of South Miami who are high school seniors, college students, individuals wanting to attend vocational/trade schools.  Potential students must have a minimum grade point average of 2.5 on a unweighted 4.0 point scale.

SCHOLARSHIP DATES:                  

Applications Available: Monday, March 2^nd ,2026

Application Submittal Deadline: Friday April 17^th, 2026, by 5:00 PM EST.

APPLICATION AVAILABILITY:

Beginning Monday, March 2^nd, 2026, applications may be downloaded from City of South Miami Website or obtained in person.

·https://www.southmiamifl.gov · City Clerk’s Office, located at City of South Miami City Hall  6130 Sunset Drive, South Miami, FL 33143 

CLICK HERE FOR APPLICATION     

RETURN APPLICATIONS:       

In person to the City Clerk’s office, 

Monday – Friday, 9 AM – 5 PM

6130 Sunset Drive, South Miami, FL 33143

For additional information, please contact the City of South Miami Offices at (305) 663-6340

Press Contact:  

Brandon Diaz, LSSGB, MSM 

Communications and Marketing Division 

Phone: 786-737-6069 

Email: BDiaz@southmiamifl.gov

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

The City of South Miami to Unveil Alexander Mijares Murals at SoMi District Parking Garage 

SOUTH MIAMI, FL – The City of South Miami is proud to announce the unveiling of a new public art installation by renowned Miami-born artist Alexander Mijares. The mural will be revealed on Thursday, December 11th at 6:30 PM at the SoMi District Parking Garage, located at 5829 Southwest 73rd Street, South Miami, Florida 33143. 

This vibrant new addition to the SoMi District represents the City’s continued investment in arts, culture, and placemaking initiatives that enhance the visual landscape and celebrate the community’s rich identity. 

Mijares’ mural features two striking Menina figures painted in his signature stained-glass style an artistic approach instantly recognizable across South Florida and beyond. The two figures are Mijares’ own modern interpretation of Las Meninas (The Maids of Honour), the iconic 1656 masterpiece by Diego Velázquez, housed in the Museo del Prado in Madrid. In Velázquez’s legendary work, Infanta Margaret Teresa is surrounded by her ladies-in-waiting, dwarves, and court attendants, while a mirror reflecting King Philip IV and Queen Mariana introduces a centuries-long debate about perspective, reality, and the role of the viewer. Celebrated for its intricate interplay of light, space, and illusion, Las Meninas remains one of the most analyzed paintings in Western art, breaking from traditional royal portraiture and elevating the status of the artist himself. 

In Mijares’ reinterpretation, the Meninas stand in quiet dialogue—expressive, contemporary, and deeply connected to the cultural pulse of South Miami. Rooted in heritage yet modern in execution, the figures honor the legacy of Velázquez’s masterpiece while breathing new life into its themes of identity, perspective, and connection. 

Event Details

Date: Thursday, December 11, 2025

Time: 6:30 PM

Location: SoMi District Parking Garage - 5829 SW 73rd Street South Miami, FL 33143

RSVP: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/ckkE1aH/MijaresMural 

Catering Sponsored by Cala Millor 

Guests attending the unveiling will enjoy complimentary catering sponsored by Cala Millor, featuring a curated selection of Spanish-inspired dishes and beverages. 

Artist Statement — Alexander Mijares, South Miami Installation

“In the heart of South Miami, where movement and color intertwine every day, these two figures stand in quiet dialogue—reflections of culture, resilience, and connection. Painted in my signature stained-glass style, each Menina embodies both strength and grace: one washed in green, symbolizing growth, hope, and renewal; the other in blue, representing depth, reflection, and peace. Facing one another, they become mirrors—a conversation between the spirit of our city and the people who give it life.

As a Miami-born artist with deep Spanish roots, this piece is a love letter to the place that shaped me. It bridges the rhythm of our Latin heritage with the evolving pulse of modern Miami a fusion that defines who we are. 

Public art has always been about more than walls or columns; it’s about connection. It’s about pausing for a moment in the middle of everyday life—in a parking garage, in a busy city and feeling something. I hope these Meninas remind everyone who passes through that beauty, culture, and community are alive in every corner of South Miami.”

— Alexander Mijares 

City officials, local businesses, community members, and art enthusiasts are invited to join the unveiling and celebrate the City’s growing public art program. 

###

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

October 21, 2025

MEDIA CONTACT: 

Sgt. Fernando Bosch

(305) 668-2488

Fbosch@southmiamipdfl.gov

South Miami Police Department will conduct High Visibility Enforcement Details (HVE) Technology 

South Miami, FL – Miami-Dade County ranks in the top 25 counties in the state for traffic crashes resulting in serious and fatal injuries to pedestrians and bicyclists. 

In an effort to protect the safety of these most vulnerable road users, the South Miami Police Department will conduct High Visibility Enforcement Details (HVE) beginning on October 28, 2025, on South Dixie Highway in the city of South Miami. This special enforcement will continue through May 1, 2026. This area is over-represented in traffic crashes resulting in serious and fatal injuries to pedestrians and bicyclists. 

HVE details are funded through a contract with the University of North Florida in partnership with the Florida Department of Transportation’s focused initiative to improve pedestrian and bicycle safety. 

The goal of this enforcement effort is to increase awareness of and compliance with traffic laws that protect the safety of pedestrians and bicyclists. 

Enforcement efforts will focus primarily on education to drivers, pedestrians, and bicyclists. However, violations may result in warnings or citations depending on the circumstances. 

Remember: 

Drivers obey the speed limits, never drive impaired, and always watch for pedestrians and bicyclists. 

Bicyclists obey traffic laws, ride in the direction of traffic, and use lights when riding at night. 

Pedestrians cross in crosswalks or at intersections, obey pedestrian signals, and make sure you are visible to drivers when walking at night.

For more information, please contact the South Miami Police Department at 305-663-6301 or visit our website at https://www.southmiamifl.gov/184/Police-Department. 

###

READ THE FULL PDF MEDIA RELEASE HERE

Press Contact:  

Brandon Diaz, LSSGB, MSM 

Communications and Marketing Division 

Phone: 786-737-6069 

Email: BDiaz@southmiamifl.gov

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

South Miami Becomes Latest City to Empower Residents Through Workforce.Miami

Partnership joins Homestead in expanding access to jobs, training, and apprenticeships across Miami-Dade

SOUTH MIAMI, FL – The City of South Miami has officially joined www.Workforce.Miami, a countywide initiative connecting residents to jobs, training, and career advancement resources. With this step, South Miami joins the City of Homestead as one of the municipalities partnering with Workforce.Miami to strengthen opportunities for residents and promote economic mobility.

Workforce.Miami, spearheaded by the Miami-Dade County Community Action and Human Services Department (CAHSD), serves as a one-stop hub for job seekers, employers, and community partners. In addition to job listings and training programs, the platform provides the most comprehensive listing of pre-apprenticeship and registered apprenticeship entry points—pathways that combine “earning and learning” in thriving industries such as construction, healthcare, and technology.

Mayor Javier Fernandez shared his enthusiasm for the initiative:

“The City of South Miami is proud to join Workforce.Miami. This partnership reflects our commitment to creating opportunities for our residents by connecting them with the resources they need to grow their skills and succeed in today’s competitive economy.”

Commissioner Steve Calle added:

“Workforce.Miami is more than just a website—it’s a lifeline for residents looking to take the next step in their careers. We are excited to make this resource available to the South Miami community, empowering people with direct access to jobs, training programs, and support services.”

William Porro, Assistant Director of Miami-Dade Community Action and Human Services, emphasized the broader impact:

“Every time a new municipality joins Workforce.Miami, we expand the reach of this vital platform. South Miami’s participation is another step toward ensuring every resident in our county has a fair shot at economic opportunity and upward mobility. My dream is to see all 30-plus municipalities across Miami-Dade join this effort, so that every community is connected to the same pathway toward success.”

For more information about the City of South Miami’s partnership with Workforce.Miami and to explore available resources, visit: https://workforce.miami/city-of-south-miami/

###

Press Contact:  

Brandon Diaz, LSSGB, MSM 

Communications and Marketing Division 

Phone: 786-737-6069 

Email: BDiaz@southmiamifl.gov

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

The City of South Miami Reaches “Functional Zero” Homelessness Milestone 

SOUTH MIAMI, FL – The City of South Miami has achieved a milestone in the fight against homelessness, reaching what experts call “Functional Zero” for chronic homelessness — a designation that signals a community has effectively ended the cycle of long-term homelessness. 

The announcement follows the latest biannual census conducted on August 22nd by the Miami-Dade County Homeless Trust; the county-funded agency charged with addressing homelessness. The preliminary survey counted only three individuals experiencing homelessness within South Miami — the lowest number recorded in recent history. Past surveys have reported as many as 15 to 20 individuals. Final numbers from the census will be released later this year. 

While point-in-time counts are not exact, they remain the county’s benchmark for progress. According to Community Solutions, the national nonprofit that developed the standard, a city achieves “Functional Zero” when chronic homelessness is reduced to either zero, or fewer than three individuals, or less than 0.1% of the city’s total homeless population — whichever is greater. 

South Miami’s progress began in 2021 when city leaders adopted a “Housing First” approach. The nationally recognized model prioritizes providing permanent housing before addressing other needs such as employment or healthcare, with the goal of breaking the cycle of homelessness and supporting long-term stability. 

To put the policy into action, South Miami designated a community policing officer to coordinate with the Homeless Trust and other county resources, ensuring individuals experiencing chronic homelessness were guided into permanent supportive housing. The city also partnered with local institutions including Baptist Health South Miami and Midtown Development Group, both of which contribute annually to shelter beds and other support services. 

By 2023, after several individuals successfully transitioned into permanent housing, the City Commission approved a strategic plan setting an ambitious goal: reaching Functional Zero homelessness by 2026. To accelerate progress, the City hired a dedicated outreach vendor to provide consistent follow-up, trust-building, and case management in addition to what South Miami already contributes to countywide homeless services through its Food and Beverage Tax. City leaders credit the vendor’s on-the-ground engagement, combined with strong coordination with police and service providers, for the rapid results. 

Now, with Functional Zero achieved one year ahead of schedule, South Miami officials are focused on sustaining progress. The City’s strategic plan emphasizes continued coordination between law enforcement, outreach teams, county partners, and the local business community to ensure that individuals at risk are connected to stable housing solutions quickly and effectively. 

“This is tremendous news for our community,” said Vice Mayor Brian Corey. “South Miami has stayed committed to executing our strategic plan, and the results are clear in the latest census. This milestone reflects the dedication of our city staff, outreach team, and police department. We will continue striving for excellence, guided by a compassionate, practical, and personalized approach to ending homelessness in South Miami.”  

“As a city, we are tremendously proud of having achieved this important milestone,” said Mayor Javier Fernandez. “All credit goes to the good work begun under Chief Landa and continued today through Chief Hatfield, as well as to Officers Napier, Lilavois, Lopez, and Prather. Special recognition and congratulations to Vice Mayor Corey for his consistent leadership from the dais on this issue and in making this South Miami’s current reality. We look forward to continuing to do our part to house the homeless here in South Miami.”  

“Achieving Functional Zero for chronic homelessness represents a profound accomplishment for the City of South Miami, and it would not have been possible without the unwavering dedication of our officers. From building trust with vulnerable individuals to coordinating directly with service providers and outreach teams, our officers have gone above and beyond traditional policing duties to serve the community with compassion and professionalism,” said Chief of Police Reo Hatfield III. “This milestone is a direct reflection of their tireless efforts, and I commend Officers Napier, Lilavois, Lopez, Prather, and the entire department for their critical role in making this achievement a reality. The South Miami Police Department remains fully committed to sustaining this progress through continued engagement, vigilance, and service.” 

### 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

April 7, 2025

MEDIA CONTACT: 

Sgt. Fernando Bosch

(305) 668-2488

Fbosch@southmiamipdfl.gov

South Miami Police Department Elevates Transparency and Community Engagement with New Body-Worn Camera Technology 

South Miami, FL – In a step toward deepening community trust and transparency, the South Miami Police Department (SMPD) has expanded its partnership with Axon, rolling out the latest advancements in body-worn camera and public safety technology. 

At the core of this rollout is the Axon Body 4, the newest and most advanced body-worn camera available. Every member of the department, including the Chief, Command Staff, Detectives, and Patrol Officers, will now be equipped with these devices, reinforcing a department-wide commitment to accountability and transparency. 

One of the most transformative features of Axon Body 4 is the integrated real-time oversight capability, powered by the “Watch Me” function and Axon Respond Plus. This system allows officers in the field to request immediate support from supervisors by activating their camera as a visual beacon. Once activated, supervisors receive real-time alerts and can: 

• Live-stream video directly from the officer’s body-worn camera,
• Track the real-time GPS location of the incident, 
• Communicate directly with the responding officer and/or involved individuals, and
• Deploy resources or provide guidance as the situation develops.

This level of oversight not only enhances officer safety and situational awareness but also provides greater transparency and ensures that incidents with potential public impact receive immediate supervisory attention. 

“Our officers are never alone,” said Chief Reo Hatfield III. “With this technology, our supervisors can see, hear, and respond in real time—supporting accountability, officer wellness, and better outcomes for the public.” 

Under the updated body-worn camera policy, cameras are placed in standby mode as soon as officers leave the station, activating a video-only pre-event buffer. Officers are required to begin recording as soon as they’re dispatched to a call, ensuring every response is captured from start to finish. 

To further support accurate and unbiased documentation, the department has acquired Axon Signal Sidearm (SSA) and Signal Device Integration. These systems automatically trigger nearby body-worn cameras within approximately 35 feet via Bluetooth to record when an officer unholsters a firearm or deploys a Taser, creating synchronized recordings of critical moments. 

Empowering the Community Through My90

As a cornerstone of this technology expansion, SMPD is also proud to introduce Axon’s My90—a community engagement tool that allows residents to share anonymous feedback after police interactions. Residents who’ve had an encounter with an officer will receive a brief survey via text message, allowing them to share their experiences, concerns, and safety priorities—completely confidential and without collecting personal data. 

Survey data will be reviewed regularly to identify strengths, areas for improvement, and inform both training and policy decisions. The department encourages residents to participate and help shape the future of public safety in South Miami.

Innovative Evidence Collection and Case Management 

With the addition of Axon Capture, officers can now securely collect video, audio, and photographic evidence in the field using department-issued mobile devices. All data is automatically uploaded to Axon Evidence.com, a secure, cloud-based system that supports case building while maintaining a clear and accountable chain of custody. 

Chief Hatfield emphasized, “Our investment in this technology is an investment in our community. By embracing tools that promote oversight, enhance safety, and elevate the voices of our residents, the South Miami Police Department is reaffirming its mission to protect and serve with integrity, openness, and respect.”

For more information, please contact the South Miami Police Department at 305-663-6301 or visit our website at https://www.southmiamifl.gov/184/Police-Department. 

###

READ THE FULL PDF MEDIA RELEASE HERE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

March 27, 2025

MEDIA CONTACT: 

Sgt. Fernando Bosch

(305) 668-2488

Fbosch@southmiamipdfl.gov

The South Miami Police Department Launches New Community Engagement Tool, Axon’s My90, to Further Improve Community Trust and Transparency

South Miami, FL –  The South Miami Police Department announces the launch of Axon’s My90, an innovative tool designed to strengthen the department’s relationships with the community and improve department operations. 

Through My90, the department will collect confidential, anonymous feedback after officer interactions, allowing South Miami residents to share their experiences and perspectives directly with our agency. 

"My90  enables  us  to  connect  and  engage  in  a  meaningful  way  with  our  community,"  said  Chief  Reo Hatfield III.  “By  listening  and  utilizing  feedback, we’re working  to  better engage with  our  community, improve outcomes for calls for service and drive positive changes in how we protect and connect with our community." 

Following an interaction with a member of the department, My90 will send residents an online survey via text message. 

Residents can then give anonymous feedback on interactions, how we can better serve the community and  any  top  safety  concerns  they  might  have,  with  no  personal  data  or  information  about  incidents collected. 

By implementing Axon’s My90,  the South Miami  Police Department is  committed  to  fostering greater transparency, accountability, and trust in the community. The data collected will help identify areas of improvement,  recognize  positive  interactions,  and  inform  the  department’s  approach  to  community engagement and officer training. 

The department encourages residents to participate in My90 surveys, as their feedback is vital to making South Miami a safer, more connected place for everyone. 

My90 will be live starting Monday, March 31st, 2025, with survey results reviewed regularly to adapt and improve policing strategies in line with community needs and expectations.  

###

READ THE FULL PDF MEDIA RELEASE HERE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

August 8, 2024

MEDIA CONTACT: 

Sgt. Fernando Bosch

(305) 668-2488

Fbosch@southmiamipdfl.gov

South Miami Police Implements Advanced Speed Detection Systems to Enhance School Zone Safety

South Miami, FL – South Miami is taking a significant step towards enhancing school zone safety with the introduction of cutting-edge speed detection systems, following the enactment of House Bill 657. This legislation, effective July 1st, 2023, under Chapter 2023-174 of the Laws of Florida, empowers municipalities to use speed detection systems to enforce school zone speeding violations exceeding 10 miles over the posted speed limit during designated times. 

In response to this new legislation, South Miami Commissioners adopted an ordinance on March 19th, 2024, which authorizes the installation and operation of speed detection systems (SDS) and establishes traffic enforcement procedures specifically for school zones. This proactive measure is designed to improve safety for students, parents, and school staff. 

Traffic studies conducted by RedSpeed Florida have identified several school zones as high-risk areas that necessitate enhanced enforcement. The following locations will be equipped with speed detection systems under Section 316.008(9), FSS: 

1. Ludlam Elementary School – 6639 SW 74th St 

2. Somerset Academy South Miami Charter School – 5876 SW 68th St 

3. South Miami K-8 Center – 6800 SW 60th Street 

4. South Miami Middle School – 6750 SW 60th St 

5. Mandelstam School and Epiphany Catholic School – 8530 SW 57th Ave and 5557 SW 84th St 

Chief Hatfield of South Miami Police Department commented, “The implementation of the Speed School Zone system will be a great tool to slow down drivers and bring awareness to the school zones. The cameras will be operational 30 minutes before the start of school, throughout the school day, and 30 minutes after school ends. Enforcement will not occur outside of school hours, on holidays, or weekends.” 

An added benefit of these photo enforcement cameras is the optimization of  law enforcement resources. By handling speed enforcement during school  hours Monday through Friday, officers will be available to respond to other community calls and emergencies. 

The speed detection systems are expected to be fully operational by August15,2024. This initiative reflects South Miami’s commitment to creating a safer environment for its students and reinforcing traffic safety in school zones. For more information about the speed detection systems and traffic safety measures, please visit www.southmiamifl.gov. 

###

READ THE FULL PDF MEDIA RELEASE HERE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

July 18, 2024

MEDIA CONTACT: 

Sgt. Fernando Bosch

(305) 668-2488

Fbosch@southmiamipdfl.gov

City of South Miami Police Department Launches Project Lifesaver; Welcomes First Registrant

South Miami, FL – The City of South Miami Police Department is proud to announce the successful registration of the first participant in its newly launched Project Lifesaver program. This groundbreaking initiative is designed to assist individuals with cognitive disabilities such as Alzheimer’s, Dementia, and Autism, who are prone to wandering.

Project Lifesaver offers a critical service to caregivers and families within our community, providing peace of mind and a proactive approach to ensure the safety of those who might wander. The program is open to individuals of all ages who have a diagnosed cognitive condition that causes them to roam.

Our first participant, who is 83 years old, and has lived in South Miami for 24 years, was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s and Dementia six months ago. Her condition has recently worsened, causing her to leave her residence several times, ending up lost by the main roadway or near the canal bank. Recognizing the increasing risk to her safety, her caregiver reached out to the South Miami Police Department seeking assistance.

Upon receiving the call, Det. Jaqueline Del Sol who is one of our program coordinators, promptly responded and conducted an in-depth assessment to determine the suitability of the program for the participant. A comprehensive profile was created, detailing important information such as her height, weight, skin color, eye color, hair color, and personal details like her favorite clothing colors, personal belongings, and her children’s names and hobbies. This profile is crucial for officers to have information readily available in the event she goes missing again.

As part of the program, the participant was fitted with a small, personalized bracelet equipped with a unique frequency number. The bracelet can be worn on the wrist or ankle, depending on the wearer’s preference, and is available 

in various colors including pink, red, blue, green, yellow, and purple to ensure comfort and compliance. The caregiver received a kit containing a battery tester, extra batteries, and bands, along with instructions on how to maintain the equipment.

To ensure the ongoing effectiveness of the program, a 30-day re-evaluation will be conducted, during which our officers will meet with the participant and caregiver to discuss any changes in behavior or additional needs.

The City of South Miami Police Department is proud to be the only agency in Miami- Dade County currently offering Project Lifesaver. This initiative underscores our commitment to community safety and our dedication to providing innovative solutions to protect our most vulnerable residents.

For more information about Project Lifesaver, or to find out how to enroll a loved one, please contact the South Miami Police Department at  305-663-6301 or visit our website at https://www.southmiamifl.gov/184/Police-Department. 

VIEW FULL PDF MEDIA RELEASE HERE