Less than two years after Coconut Grove developer David Martin was cited for irreparably damaging the protected Silver Bluff outside his waterfront mansion, the owner of the property next door is seeking approval for new construction — where archaeologists have uncovered 19th-century artifacts and possible evidence of prehistoric activity.
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More Development Coming to Douglas Road
Miami-Dade County intends to knock down a small-scale public housing complex with 24 apartments in the West Grove to make way for a new multifamily development with at least 300 units including workforce and affordable housing.
A Giant Oak, an Illegal Removal and a Not-So-Giant Fine
As city officials debate changes to Miami’s tree-protection laws, they may want to consider the case of an oak tree — by some estimates approaching three centuries old — that was removed without a permit from a property slated for development.
Deceptive Advertising: “Vote Yes to Save Virginia Key” is a Trojan Horse
To the Editor: With the firing of 30+ staffers at the Miami Herald, the Spotlight is now one of the only news outlets that can shed light on local issues, as the Herald no longer has a dedicated reporter to cover City Hall. Unfortunately, deceptive ads by out-of-town developers take[Read More…]
City Needs a Plan B for Live Local Act
To the Editor: On June 25, the City Commission unanimously passed a resolution directing the City Attorney to analyze legal avenues to challenge the state’s Live Local Act. The City Commission was apparently unaware of the fact that (1) on March 6, Hillsborough County filed a lawsuit in Leon County (where[Read More…]
City of Miami: E-Bike and Scooter Incidents Are Rising
A new report by the City of Miami Fire-Rescue Department confirms what many Coconut Grove pedestrians already know: electric bikes and motorized scooters are dangerous, and the problem appears to be growing.
Shorter Hours, Fewer Services: Proposed Tax Cuts Loom Large for Libraries
The Miami-Dade Public Library System could face budget cuts of up to $20 million – about 16% of its total operating budget – if Florida voters approve the Amendment 3 property tax proposal on the November ballot, library advocates say.
Despite Vote to Stay, Miami Urged to Rethink City Hall’s Future
After Miami agreed to keep City Hall at the historic Pan Am terminal in Coconut Grove, the Museum of Miami is urging the city to lock in a long-term plan that preserves the property, expands public access and shields the site from private development.
West Grove Affordable Housing Project Nears Completion
Greater St. Paul A.M.E. Church is now accepting applications for its affordable housing units, while the City of Miami considers additional funding to help cover construction cost overruns.
Grand Avenue Rezoning Plan Inches Forward
Miami’s Planning, Zoning and Appeals Board voted Wednesday to dust off a long-delayed rezoning plan that city staff says could revitalize an important West Grove corridor.


















