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In reflecting on the previous quarter, I’ll start on a positive note. The City of Miami Gardens Police Department is hiring more patrol officers while promoting some to higher positions.
This recruitment effort will continue to support a decrease in our crime rate and increase residents’ confidence in safety. On the other hand, the pandemic has continued to affect us.
We’ve been seeing increased mental health issues among our young people, and we’ve also lost many of our seniors because of it.
Among my 2021 initiatives, I proposed some job-related activities and initiatives for young people and seniors. I accomplished all three. In September, we hosted the Young Brilliant Mind Summit with employers including UPS and City Furniture onsite. More than 100 young people actively participated in the entrepreneurship experience, with seven attendees interviewed and five hired.
Regarding our seniors, I hosted a virtual, once-a-month “Bingo with a Twist” for 40 or 50 participants, where winners were awarded meal vouchers for restaurants right here in Miami Gardens. I get pretty good feedback and, as long as the people want it, I’m going to continue to do it.
I’m also looking into a re-entry program for ex-felons so they can get their rights restored.
That’s something I’ve been passionate about.
The City of Miami Gardens’ mission is “to enhance the quality of life through the efficient and professional delivery of public services. We are committed to fostering civic pride, participation, and responsible development for the community.” I believe we are doing just that as we return to some normalcy. We have new programs, like lacrosse and soccer, through our Parks and Recreation Department. There are businesses and restaurants, like Wawa, 7-Eleven, and Chipotle, opening up here. We have more innovative programs via our new e-learning platform. We’ve never had these things before, and they all fit in line with our vision.
As we look back on the year, there’s lots of progress in our City. We’ve opened new facilities, we have done groundbreakings, and there’s more to come. We’re moving in the right direction.
For the holiday season, please stay safe and be aware of your surroundings. Love your family and your neighbors and celebrate responsibly. Going into the winter season, hopefully, we get a little cooler temperatures to bring out the boots, sweaters, and scarves.
