The centerpiece of the meeting was the debate over the potential historic designation of the Southshore Community Center. The building, constructed between 1970 and 1974, was originally funded through a HUD grant to serve the area’s elderly population. Its brutalist architectural style, characterized by exposed concrete finishes and a prominent stairway, has been compromised by alterations over the years. Despite these changes, the building is still seen as a significant piece of Miami Beach’s architectural history.

Concerns about the building’s vulnerability to sea level rise were a major focus, given its location in one of the lowest parts of Flamingo Park. The site sits below the required base flood elevation, posing significant challenges for preservation and future modifications. The board was informed that while historic designation doesn’t necessitate conformity to flood elevation standards, future resilience against flooding is a issue.

A significant aspect of the discussion was the proposal to relocate a fire station to the Southshore site, as the current station on Jefferson Avenue is deemed inadequate. The board was reminded of a previous policy direction that had approved plans for a new fire station at the Southshore site, but recent considerations suggest relocating it to the edge of Flamingo Park. This shift has sparked debate about the compatibility of a fire station within the park’s environment.

Commissioner Tanya Bot highlighted the extensive search for a new fire station location, confirming that the eastern edge of Flamingo Park was the preferred choice following a countywide referendum. She emphasized the technical feasibility of the new station without impacting nearby recreational facilities. Bot also acknowledged the architectural and cultural significance of the Southshore Community Center, urging the board to consider its historic designation based solely on merit, separate from the fire station debate.

Public comments offered diverse perspectives. Johan Moore highlighted the building’s central role in the community and urged for a delayed decision until more information could be presented. David McKinney, an architectural historian, criticized the board’s approach, stressing the building’s national significance and arguing against dismissing its historic designation due to alterations like paint removal.

Given the intertwined issues of the community center’s historical value and the fire station’s future, the board decided to defer the decision. A board member noted that the designation shouldn’t proceed without a clear commitment to building a new fire station, emphasizing the need for clarity and additional information about the building’s resilience and historical significance.

In another significant item, the board reviewed applications for properties at 1810 and Michigan Avenue. These applications involved the reconstruction of demolished single-family homes, with variances requested due to lot shape and flood elevation requirements. The properties, particularly 1818 Michigan Avenue, carry historical importance due to their architectural lineage and previous uses. The board supported the proposed variances, recognizing the challenges posed by modern flood regulations and the need to preserve historical neighborhood character.

The meeting also addressed a proposal for a property on Lincoln Road, focusing on revitalizing the area with vertical LED lighting and decorative elements reminiscent of its 1950s vibrancy. The board unanimously approved the proposal, appreciating the effort to restore the area’s historic charm and pedestrian appeal.