Spotlight 114-250620

Good morning. What we’re covering in today’s Spotlight:

City Approves The Well for Eight Stories
Demo Work Resumes at Playhouse
City Hall Reforms Survive a First Test
Miami Dolphins Tour the Grove

City Closes Bonus Height Loophole, But Not for The WELL

The controversial Center Grove development that prompted the new law can build to eight stories –and possibly far higher if city officials adopt a far-reaching plan to supersize developments within a full mile of transit stations.

By David Villano

The Miami City Commission on Tuesday voted to close a two-year-old zoning loophole that allowed buildings in Coconut Grove to rise as high as eight stories within areas normally limited to five.

But the luxury mixed-use development that prompted the change – Center Grove’s The WELL Coconut Grove – will be allowed to claim the so-called “bonus height” available under the old zoning rules, city officials have confirmed.

“[The WELL] can be developed under prior development standards,” city zoning officials told the Spotlight through a spokesperson. “Project is vested prior to [the new] ordinance.”

Construction is scheduled to begin later this year with a completion date of 2028.

Demo Work Resumes at Playhouse

The City of Miami has lifted the stop-work order imposed last month after a construction mistake threatened to topple the historic playhouse, but questions remain about why the 99-year-old structure wasn’t braced before demo work began.

By Don Finefrock

Demolition work on the Coconut Grove Playhouse has resumed after an independent engineer completed a structural assessment of the building following the partial collapse of the playhouse’s third floor and the emergency installation of exterior bracing.

City of Miami building officials lifted the stop-work order last week after receiving the structural assessment from Youssef Hachem Consulting Engineers. The firm was asked to certify the safety of the structure following the May 21 collapse.

Questions remain, however, over why the 99-year-old playhouse wasn’t braced before demolition work began in April.

Asked whether Miami-Dade County and its contractor should have braced the building as a precaution before starting work, Miami city officials pointed to a set of bracing plans submitted by Wood/O’Donnell & Naccarato.

City Hall Reforms Survive a Crucial First Test

The Miami City Commission voted narrowly this week in support of shaking up the status quo by moving city elections to even-numbered years and by imposing a lifetime cap on the number of terms a city commissioner or mayor can serve.

By Don Finefrock

After a marathon meeting that stretched late into the evening, the Miami City Commission voted narrowly this week to advance two proposals that would change the way in which Miami elects its political leaders and determines who is fit to serve.

The twin proposals, pushed by Miami District 2 Commissioner Damian Pardo, would delay this year’s election by a year to November 2026 and impose a lifetime cap of eight years (two terms) on the length of time a commissioner or mayor could stay in office.

Neither proposal is final. The City Commission will have to vote a second time to move this year’s election. That vote could come as early as next week. And voters will have the final say on Pardo’s proposal for lifetime term limits.

Both votes were significant, however, for what they revealed about the shifting dynamics on the commission dais and the appetite for political reform.

Game On: Miami Dolphins Tour Coconut Grove

The Miami Dolphins brought their rookie class of players to Coconut Grove this week for an event celebrating Caribbean culture in South Florida.

By Spotlight Staff

The 2025 rookie class of the Miami Dolphins came to Coconut Grove on Monday to soak up a little Bahamian culture as part of the team’s Football Unites program. About two dozen Dolphin rookies, including defensive back Jason Marshall from Richmond Heights, participated in the day’s event, with stops at the Barnacle Historic State Park, Taste of Coco-Bahamas on Grand Avenue (aka Foodie Park), and the Coconut Grove Sports Hall of Fame. The players were joined by students from the Boys & Girls Club of Miami-Dade and the Miami Gardens Police Athletic League for the day.

Continue to Photos…

Where We’ll Be

From Freedom to Fireworks: Summer in Full Groove

Summer’s heating up across the Grove and beyond—with culture, community, and celebrations lined up to match. Whether you’re marching for faith, mingling at a chamber social, or stretching under the palms, this week’s Where We’ll Be is packed with the good stuff. And don’t miss what’s coming in July—it’s big, it’s loud, and it sparkles.

Dance, dress, and a deep bow to tradition. Step into the subtle beauty of Japanese classical dance with Satomi Hirano. You’ll not only watch the performance—you’ll learn the movements yourself, and get a hands-on look at the art of wearing a yukata (that’s the summer kimono). Virrick Park Branch Library, 3255 Plaza St. Friday 6/20 from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. Free; ages 10 and up.

Morning Flow at the Park. Ease into your weekend with intention. This free yoga class at David T. Kennedy Park invites you to connect through movement, quiet the mind, and welcome the day with breath and presence. Just bring a mat, some water, and a willingness to slow down. All levels welcome. David T. Kennedy Park, 2400 South Bayshore Drive. Saturday from 9:00 to 10:00 a.m. Free, with parking onsite.

Path to Homeownership. Thinking about buying a home in Miami? The City of Miami’s Homeownership Fair is the place to start. With workshops on credit, title tips, and local first-time buyer programs—plus one-on-one chats with lenders and housing advocates—this free event is packed with tools to help you prep for the big step. Hosted by the City’s Housing Department and TEDc. Charles Hadley Park, 1350 NW 50 Street. Saturday 6/21 from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Space is limited—register soon.

Jerusalem Walk. Put some rhythm in your stride—The National Black Church Initiative’s Jerusalem Walk blends faith, fitness, and full-throated praise. Bring the family and join the joyful procession. Starts and ends at St. James Baptist Church, 3500 Charles Street. Saturday 6/21 from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Free.

Tap, Scat, Swing & Sing—Miss Leslie brings the rhythm and the rhymes to this jazzy Juneteenth storytime. Expect dancing, singing, and plenty of joyful noise as guests celebrate freedom with flair. Shenandoah Branch Library, 2111 SW 19th Street. Saturday 6/21 from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Free and family-friendly.

Sea Change in the Grove. A Saturday brunch with purpose? Yes, please. The Miami Resilient Sea Project is hosting a community workshop to hear what you think about coastal restoration and citizen science—specifically tailored to the Little Bahamas of Coconut Grove. MDC Gibson Education Center, 3629 Grand Avenue. Saturday 6/21 from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Meal catered by Naomi’s Garden. Free.

Live in the Courtyard. A sultry summer evening, some smooth strings, and that courtyard charm. Books & Books Coral Gables is back with live music under the stars. First up, the velvet vocals of Shelina Rose. Then on Saturday, a spirited trio led by maestro Federico Britos on violin. Books & Books, 265 Aragon Avenue, Coral Gables. Friday 6/20 at 8:00 p.m. and Saturday 6/21 at 7:30 p.m. Free.

Built to Last. Local favorite Alice Goldhagen showcases her latest photographic series—including shots that celebrate Coral Gables’ architectural roots. Bernice Steinbaum Gallery, 2101 Tigertail Avenue. Opening Saturday 6/21 from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. Gallery hours M/W/F 10:00 to 3:30 or by appointment.

Grove Chamber After Hours. Sip, savor, and schmooze. Join the Coconut Grove Chamber of Commerce for an evening of cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, and connections—plus a raffle for dinner at Ossobuco (members only, sorry!). Ossobuco, 2801 Florida Avenue. Wednesday 6/25 from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Free for Chamber members (plus one guest), $25 for non-members. RSVP.

Speed Connections. Think speed dating—but for dealmakers. The Coconut Grove edition of Speed Networking is back with rapid-fire, two-minute meetups built to get things moving. Total Wine & More, 2750 SW 27th Terrace, Suite 201. Wednesday 6/25 from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., doors open at 5:30 p.m. Ages 18+. Free with RSVP.

Drift into the Future. Think: AI visuals, immersive dome, French post-apocalyptic vibes. The next FilmGate Fusion at the Frost Planetarium features “DRIFT,” a live multimedia performance blending electronic music, AI-generated visuals, and poetic narrative. Frost Planetarium, 1101 Biscayne Boulevard. Thursday 6/26 from 6:00 to 9:30 p.m. Admission to the event does not include museum access. Parking $8 after 6:00 p.m.

Poetry City in the Grove. Celebrate Miami in verse with Biscayne Poet Oscar Fuentes as he launches his latest book, Poetry City, at the Grove’s own Books & Books. Books & Books, 3409 Main Highway. Thursday 6/26 at 6:30 p.m. Free tickets.

Hurricane Ready. With hurricane season officially here, it’s time to check your plans, restock your kits, and stay alert. The City of Miami is urging all residents to review evacuation routes, create a family communication plan, and follow official social channels for real-time emergency updates. Need help getting started? Head to miamigov.com/hurricane.

Save Me a Seat

Emancipendence! The 2nd Annual Juneteenth and Florida Emancipation Day Celebration features performances from local churches, schools, civic groups, and more. Come early for a light brunch before the show. Sanctuary of the Arts, 136 Frow Ave. Sunday 6/29 at 2:00 p.m. Free.

Grove & Glory: Your July Fourth Rundown. Ready for sparklers, marching bands, and centennial sky shows? This Fourth of July, Miami’s got something for every kind of patriot—from neighborhood parades to historical readings to all-out fireworks finales. Here’s where to wave the flag and make the most of your red, white, and groove:

Start your day in the Grove with Out Loud Across America, a community celebration at the Woman’s Club. Bonus: It opens with lawn readings from the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution. Bring a chair, bring a blanket, bring your voice. Woman’s Club of Coconut Grove, 11:00 a.m. (readings), party 2:00–6:00 p.m.

March to the Key for the annual Key Biscayne Fourth of July Parade—a hometown classic with everything from golf carts to baton twirlers. Crandon Boulevard, Key Biscayne, 11:00 a.m.

Stars, Stripes & Sizzle in the Grove. Cross the street from the Woman’s Club, claim your patch of grass, and let the red, white, and woo-hoo commence. The Miami Symphony Orchestra takes the stage under the stars, led by Maestro Eduardo Marturet in a patriotic power set. Taste of the Grove brings the bites, local restaurants bring the heat, and the Kids Zone keeps the little ones buzzing. Cap it all off with a drone-and-fireworks finale to light up the sky. Peacock Park, 2820 McFarlane Road. Friday 7/4 from 3:05 to 9:00 p.m. Free.

Glide into the evening at A Gables Fourth, the city’s centennial celebration at the Biltmore. Expect a live concert, a Coral Gables–themed drone show, and a grand finale fireworks display—plus food trucks and bike valet. Biltmore Hotel, Coral Gables, grounds open 5:00 p.m., concert 7:00 p.m., show at 9:00 p.m.
Wherever you land, may your Fourth be loud, lit, and full of local love.