Wednesday, February 7, 2007
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CONTENTS:City Increases Reserve Fund By $1.2 Million
Last Chance To Enter Greatest Love Story Contest
Downtown Parking Study Presented To City Commission
Senior Housing Project Gets Approval
Construction Work Being Done Around The City
City Continues Traffic Calming Projects
Seminars To Help Small Businesses
No Parking Enforcement On Presidents' Day
Coral Gables Named Tree City USA
Romance Under The Stars At Venetian Pool
New Issue Of Golden Gables Is Published
Traffic
Events Roundup
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City Increases Reserve Fund By $1.2 Million >>> Following the financial review of the past six months and an adjustment of the Fiscal Year 2005-2006, City administrators are making a big deposit into the general fund reserve. Thanks to year-end revenues of approximately $132 million, over the projected mid-year estimate of $128 million, the City of Coral Gables is increasing the reserve balance by $1,173,441. This amount will be added to the reserve balance of $3,739,598 resulting in a total General Fund Reserve of $4,913,039 for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2006. The increase in revenues in the past six months was attributed to increases in the electric franchise fees from Florida Power and Light, construction permits, utility services taxes, recreation fees, sanitary sewer fees, investment earnings, state sales tax, federal grants, concurrency fees, fines and forfeitures, transportation sales tax and other revenue sources. The reserve fund is used as a contingency fund for unbudgeted expenditures such as municipal costs incurred during an active hurricane season. In the current Fiscal Year 2006-2007, the City has budgeted an additional $900,000 to go into the General Fund Reserve for unknown contingencies which will bring this fund to a projected total of $5.8 million dollars by September 30, 2007.
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Last Chance To Enter Greatest Love Story Contest >>> Don't forget to celebrate the love of your life by entering the City of Coral Gables Greatest Love Story contest by this Friday, February 9 and be eligible to win great prizes. The protagonists of the best love stories will win a one-night stay in a junior suite at the Biltmore Hotel, a dinner certificate for two under the stars at the romantic 1200 Courtyard Grill in the Biltmore Hotel, a dinner for two for The Country Club of Coral Gables Valentines' Day Dinner Dance or a brunch certificate for two at the St. Michel Hotel sponsored by Vine Communications. If you found love in Coral Gables and want the entire world to know, e-mail your story with a minimum of 50 words, plus a photo, to e-news@coralgables.com by 5 p.m. this Friday. You can also fax an entry to the Office of Public Affairs to 305-460-5350 or mail it to 405 Biltmore Way, Coral Gables, FL 33134. For additional information, contact the Office of Public Affairs at 305-460-5205.
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Downtown Parking Study Presented To City Commission >>> A study about downtown parking that listed several recommendations to improve the facilities was presented on January 23 to City Commission by consultants Timothy Haahs & Associates and Chance Management Advisors. Listed recommendations included the improvement of parking facilities, paseos, alleys and walkways, as well as the upgrade of parking signage for motorists and pedestrians. The study also analyzed short-term and long-term parking issues related to parallel vs. angle parking, valet parking, the Coral Gables Trolley Program, Parking Garage No. 2, the Miracle Mile Streetscape Improvements, and new private development. City Administration will now take this study and return to City Commission with a plan of action and timetable for implementation. Before the parking study is put in an action plan, the City will conduct a number of public hearings to gather input from users and affected parties. In other parking news, the City of Coral Gables honored long-time Parking Director William Carlson on his impending retirement after 44 and a-half years of service. City Commission proclaimed January 31 as Bill Carlson Day in Coral Gables in gratitude for his dedicated employment. A new Parking Director in charge of overseeing the proposed parking improvements will be announced in the upcoming weeks.
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Senior Housing Project Gets Approval >>> On its last meeting, the City Commission authorized the City Manager to execute a Memorandum of Understanding between the City of Coral Gables and the Palace Management Group for the development of a senior housing facility. The new senior housing will be constructed on the existing Municipal Lot No. 9 and Municipal Garage No. 5 on the zero block of Andalusia Avenue. After initial concerns related to unit size of living studios, the percentage of studios as compared to the total number of congregate units and the safe ingress and egress of the garage, the Palace revised development plans to improve the proposal. The residential building will now consist of 210 congregate living units, 43 assisted living units, and 542 space parking garage. Palace residents will have complimentary valet parking service with front-building drop-off. Groundbreaking for the project is expected in 2008 with project completion in 2010.
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Construction Work Being Done Around The City >>> You may have seen the restoration work at DeSoto Fountain and the Water Tower, but there is a long list of less visible capital projects where construction crews are also working. The re-roofing of the Fire Station No. 3 at 11911 Old Cutler Road is under contract and the restoration of the Columbus and Coral Way Entrance is underway. Both projects are expected to be finished this April. The construction of the new Ruth Bryan Owen Park is completed and only punch list items are pending. The re-pavement of existing alleys on Aragon Avenue and Miracle Mile will begin this month. As part of this year's capital improvement funding, the City is allocating $950,000 for street improvements, $400,000 for sidewalk improvements, $500,000 for ADA compliance for building and facilities, $175,000 for storm water improvements and more than $1 million for sanitary sewer improvements, in particular the Old Cutler force main replacement.
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City Continues Traffic Calming Projects >>> Also as part of the capital projects designed to improve traffic flow and make streets safer in residential areas, the following traffic circles are being installed: North Greenway Drive and South Greenway Drive; Como Avenue at Maggiore Street and San Vicente Street; Maggiore Street and Menendez Avenue/Rosaro Avenue; Campana Avenua and Monfero Street; George Allen Avenue and Brooker Street; and George Allen Avenue and Oak Avenue. The construction of other traffic circles will begin later in the year, with the City spending approximately $103,000 for a total of 15 traffic calming projects.
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Seminars To Help Small Businesses >>> The City of Coral Gables is hosting two seminars in February designed to help small business owners. On Tuesday, February 13, beginning at 10 a.m., Florida Drug Screening, Inc. presents "How to Set Up a Drug Free Workplace." During this free two-hour seminar learn the importance and how to set up a drug free workplace at no cost to the owner, how to save five percent immediately on workers' compensation insurance, and how business owners can take advantage of the available technical and financial assistance. In addition, Florida Atlantic University's Small Business Development Center is also presenting a seminar on "Making a Good Impression: Etiquette for Business Owners" on Thursday, February 15, beginning at 6:30 p.m. During this free two-hour seminar, learn the art of networking etiquette, telephone, cell phone and e-mail manners, international relations and dressing for impact. Both seminars will take place at the Coral Gables War Memorial Youth Center, 405 University Drive. For more information on either of the seminars, call Jessica Wotherspoon at the City of Coral Gables Development Department at 305-460-5314.
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No Parking Enforcement On Presidents' Day >>> What began as a holiday to celebrate George Washington's birthday, and later for Abraham Lincoln's birthday as both Presidents were born in February, is known today as Presidents' Day, a day to honor all the men who have served as president of the United States. Coral Gables City Hall and all other municipal offices will be closed for business during Presidents' Day. All garbage collection will continue its normal pickup schedule on Monday, February 19, but remember that there will be no parking enforcement for all on- and off-street parking in the City of Coral Gables.
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Coral Gables Named Tree City USA >>> Coral Gables has been named a Tree City USA community by The National Arbor Day Foundation to honor its commitment to community forestry. It is the 22nd consecutive year Coral Gables has received this national recognition. The Tree City USA program is sponsored by The National Arbor Day Foundation in cooperation with the National Association of State Foresters and the USDA Forest Service. Coral Gables has met the four standards to become a Tree City USA community: a tree board or department, a tree care ordinance, a comprehensive community forestry program, and an Arbor Day observance.
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Romance Under The Stars At Venetian Pool >>> Celebrate Valentine's Day this year with a night full of romance under the stars at the Venetian Pool's Annual Dinner Dance this Wednesday, February 14 from 6-10 p.m. For $120 per couple, Coral Gables residents can enjoy an all inclusive night out of dinner and dance, plus a photo for keepsake. Non-residents pay $150 per couple. Reservations are required by Friday, February 9. Register now since space is limited. For more information, call the Venetian Pool at 305-460-5306.
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New Issue Of Golden Gables Is Published >>> The second issue of the City newsletter designed for the golden years of life is now available and free to all seniors. Read all about the latest update on senior housing in the February-April edition of Golden Gables, along with pertinent articles about the Young Viejos Baseball Team, special events and tips helpful for seniors. To obtain a free copy of the Golden Gables, call the City of Coral Gables Office of Public Affairs at 305-460-5392.
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Traffic >>> Le Jeune Road between Mendoza Avenue (Southwest 16th Street) and Bird Road: All traffic lanes have been shifted to the east side or northbound lanes of Le Jeune Road with one lane in each direction. Crews will be paving the southbound lanes during this time. All lanes are clearly marked with barricades which will remain in place until this phase of the project is complete. Paving work will occur during the non-peak traffic hours of 9 p.m. to 5:30 a.m. weekdays and weekends and is expected to last two weeks.
> Le Jeune Road between Andalusia Avenue and Bird Road: Expect delays due to the outside southbound lane closure of Le Jeune Road between Andalusia Avenue and Bird Road. The closure takes place between 7 a.m. and 4 p.m. as construction crews conduct concrete, lighting, drainage and resurfacing work. For more information, please contact Carlos Sarmiento at 305-499-2410 or via e-mail at carlos.sarmiento@dot.state.fl.us.
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Events Roundup >>> Here is a partial list of upcoming cultural events in Coral Gables. Please call ahead to confirm, as dates and times may change. For a complete list of events in Coral Gables, click here.
Ongoing: The historic Merrick House, the family home of Coral Gables founder George Merrick, is open to the public on Wednesdays and Sundays for tours at 1 p.m., 2 p.m., and 3 p.m. The tour of this charming home built of coral rock, still home to the artwork and early possessions of the Merrick family, lasts about 45 minutes. Tickets are $5 for adults; $3 for senior citizens (ages 65+) and students with ID; $1 for children ages 6-12, and free for children ages 5 and under. The Merrick House, a remarkable example of South Florida architecture, is located at 907 Coral Way. For more information, call 305-460-5095.
First Friday of The Month: Art lovers flock to Coral Gables the first Friday of every month for Gallery Night. Boasting dozens of galleries, Coral Gables is the premier destination for art and cultural events. The City offers free trolley service to most of the galleries locations from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. Some galleries will feature musicians for your entertainment. There will be no parking enforcement in Business Central District during Gallery Nights between the hours of 6-10 p.m. on the months of February and March of 2007. For a list of art galleries in Coral Gables, click here.
Next At The Farmers Market: The Coral Gables Farmers Market takes place on Saturday mornings from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. from now until March 31, in front of City Hall. Enjoy fresh produce, baked goods and plants. On February 10: "Tai Chi in the Park" with Master Al Agon from Perfect Balance at 8 a.m.; "Gardens for Small Spaces" gardening workshop presented by Andres Mejides of Elfin Acres Organic Farm at 9 .m.; cooking demonstration by Cacao Restaurant at 10 a.m., and the Coral Gables Youth Center will provide fun Valentine's Day activities for children starting at 11 a.m. On February 17: "Tai Chi in the Park" with Master Al Agon from Perfect Balance at 8 a.m.; "Feng Shui for Your Garden" presented by Ileana Davis, founder of Feng Shui Inc. at 9 a.m.; cooking demonstration by Sushi Maki Restaurant at 10 a.m.; and children can watch a Chinese Lion Dance with storyteller Al Agon from Perfect Balance at 11 a.m. For more information, contact 305-460-5311.
February 10: You don't have to travel outside of Coral Gables to enjoy the fun of a casino. The Coral Gables Junior Woman's Club presents Casino Carnevale Saturday at 7:30 p.m. A cover charge of $55 will include your pass to participate in a casino silent auction, $100 in gambling chips, complimentary buffet dinner and a drink, and live entertainment. Proceeds from the event will benefit the May Van Sickle Children's Dental Clinic. Casino Carnevale will be held at the Coral Gables Junior Woman's Club House located at 1009 East Ponce de Leon Boulevard. For more information, contact Lydia Garcia at 786-218-5351.
February 10: With school and extra curricular activities, it's easy for grandparents to lose touch with their grandchildren but a cup of tea can be the perfect remedy. Spend an afternoon with your grandchild at the historic Merrick House, 907 Coral Way, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. during High Tea with Grandma and Me, create one of a kind bonnets, enjoy refreshments and learn traditional tea time rituals. The fee for the event is $20 and the registration deadline is February 3rd. Call 305-460-5609 for more information.
February 11: It's never too early to introduce your children to a little culture. The next Sunday Afternoons of Music for Children Concert will feature Matthew Sabatella and the Ramblers in "Ballad of America." Children will get to sing along as folk songs describe the story of the United States from its early colonial times through the 20th century. The musical will be performed at the Gusman Concert Hall located at the University of Miami, 1314 Miller Drive, at 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. Ticket prices are $10 for children and $12 for adults. For more information, call 305-271-7150 or click here.
February 13 - 24: Although crime continues to be low in Coral Gables, it's always important to be prepared to defend yourself. The Coral Gables Police Department is offering R.A.D. Classes for Women that specialize in awareness, risk reductions, avoidance and basic physical defense. Participants must attend the following four classes: Tuesdays, February 13 and 20 and Thursdays, February 15 and 22 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. with a make-up day of Saturday, February 24 at 8 a.m. The classes will be held at the police station located at 2801 Salzedo Street. Parking is available on the 200 and 300 blocks of Sevilla and Palermo Avenues. The cost of the classes is $65. For more information, call 305-460-5401.
February 14: Enjoy one of the most romantic nights of the year in a tropical setting under the stars. Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden presents a Romance of Jazz. Bring a picnic basket, wine and blanket and Fairchild Garden will provide the ambiance and music. The garden will open the gates at 5:30 p.m. with tickets costing $45 for Fairchild members, $60 for non-members. The music starts at 7 p.m. For more information, call 305-667-1651 extension 3391.
February 16: Coral Gables seniors can take a short road trip and Tour the Bonnet House in Fort Lauderdale. Seniors are invited to tour the 35-acre subtropical estate and historic house on Friday. A bus will take seniors from the War Memorial Youth Center to Fort Lauderdale for a full day tours, a viewing of an art collection and the personal treasures of the Birch/Bartlett families. The group will stop for lunch at Shirttail Charlie's. The bus leaves the Youth Center at 8:30 a.m. and pre-registration is required. The cost of the trip is $22.50 for Youth Center members, $30 for residents, and $37.50 for non-residents and includes transportation and admission into the Bonnet House. For more information, call 305-460-5609.
February 18: In honor of Fredric Chopin's birthday, world renowned pianist Piotr Folkert will delight the Coral Gables community with a Birthday Concert honoring the great composer. Folkert will be performing on Sunday at 3 p.m. at the Granada Presbyterian Church located at 950 University Drive. The concert is free and open to the public. For more information, call the Chopin Foundation at 305-868-0624.
February 19: Public schools are out on Monday for Presidents' Day but that doesn't mean you have to worry about who will stay with your children. Club P.L.A.Y. at the War Memorial Youth Center, 405 University Drive, is open to children ages five through 12 for your convenience and peace of mind. The camp is open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. with Youth Center members paying $20, residents paying $27 and non-residents paying $34. The kids will spend the day playing and even go on a field trip. For more information, call 305-460-5600.
Through April 29: The next Open Air Antiques Market presented by the Globe Café will be held on Sunday, February 18th from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. During that time Alhambra Circle will close for just one block east of LeJeune Road so antique dealers can line the street with booths full of furniture, fashion, jewelry and special memorabilia. Mark you calendars! The next Antiques Market will be held on March 4th & 18th, and April 1st, 15th & 29th. For more information, call 786-269-1331.BACK TO TOP
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