Miami Beach Preservation Board Debates Southshore Community Center’s Historic Status
- Meeting Overview:
During a recent Miami Beach Historic Preservation Board meeting, discussions centered around whether the Southshore Community Center should be designated as a historic site. The center, significant for its ties to urban renewal policies and its design by renowned architect Morris Lapidus, was the subject of debate regarding its historical and architectural value versus practical considerations like sea level rise and building integrity.
11:10The meeting began with staff outlining the Southshore Community Center’s qualifications for historic designation. They emphasized the building’s association with significant historical events, its brutalist architectural style, and its design by Lapidus, albeit a departure from his typical style. Concerns were raised about the building’s low elevation and vulnerability to sea level rise, prompting the board to discuss necessary adaptations for future conditions. Questions emerged about the absence of an applicant presentation, as the city commission initiated the evaluation.
21:39Board members voiced differing opinions regarding the designation. Some highlighted the potential benefits of historic designation, such as grant opportunities and building code relief, while others questioned the political motivations behind prioritizing this site over others, like the Bass Museum. Public comments further fueled the debate, with individuals like David McKenna emphasizing the building’s historical significance and others expressing concerns about potential costs and flood vulnerabilities.
01:01:39The board considered the implications of designating the building as historic, weighing the preservation of its brutalist features against modern needs for municipal planning and resource allocation. Ultimately, a motion to refrain from moving forward with the designation report failed. The conversation highlighted the complex interplay between historic preservation priorities and practical considerations.
In addition to discussions on the Southshore Community Center, the board addressed several other topics. A proposal for the demolition and reconstruction of a home on Lennox Avenue elicited concerns about the structural integrity of the existing building and the impact of new construction on the neighborhood’s character. The board heard from engineers and architects who detailed the home’s foundational issues and flooding problems, leading to a debate about the balance between preserving historical context and adapting to contemporary challenges.
02:17:00Discussions also included the renovation plans for the Nautilus Hotel on Collins Avenue. The proposal aimed to enhance guest experiences while preserving the building’s historic character, with renovations to the lobby and public spaces. Board members expressed a mix of sentiments, acknowledging the necessity of adapting to flood-prone areas while appreciating the design efforts to respect the original architecture.
Another notable topic was the potential designation of the Jackie Gleason Theater as a historic site. The theater’s historical significance was acknowledged, particularly its association with Jackie Gleason’s television show, but staff concluded that the building’s extensive renovations had compromised its architectural integrity. The board ultimately supported the recommendation not to designate the theater as historic.
Steven Meiner
Historic Preservation Commission Officials:
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Meeting Type:
Historic Preservation Commission
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Committee:
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Meeting Date:
04/22/2025
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Recording Published:
04/22/2025
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Duration:
387 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
Florida
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County:
Miami-Dade County
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Towns:
Miami Beach
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