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The local business and community leaders of Coconut Grove turned out in force on June 28 for an exhilarating Meet & Greet with Mark Burns, the newly appointed Executive Director of the Coconut Grove Business Improvement District (BID). The vibrant gathering, hosted at bartaco on 3112 Commodore Plaza, pulsated with discussions about the BID’s mission and Burns’s vision for the downtown district’s future.
Commissioner Damian Pardo, a pivotal figure as both City of Miami District 2 Commissioner and Chairman of the BID Board of Directors, kicked off the event by introducing Burns, marking a significant opportunity for attendees to engage directly with him since his appointment in April 2024.
Reflecting on the evening, Burns commented, “It was an incredible evening, and I deeply appreciate the presence of so many of our key BID members. Not only did my staff and I gain valuable insights into your organization’s contributions to the Grove, but it was also a fantastic opportunity to brainstorm together for a brighter future for the BID.”
Burns outlined the BID’s core mission, emphasizing its commitment to enhancing city services, fostering a clean and safe environment, spearheading impactful marketing campaigns, and organizing community-building events.
Drawing from his extensive experience with the City of Miami, where he spent nearly a decade building relationships across various city departments, Burns highlighted how these connections now benefit the BID’s efforts.
Burns wrapped up his remarks by thanking City of Miami District-2 Commissioner Damian Pardo and his staff, as well as Police Lt. Steve Castell, Commanding Officer of the City of Miami’s Investigative Intelligence Unit. Lt. Castell gave an enlightening presentation highlighting the mission of the City’s Real Time Crime Center (RTCC) that provides a 24/7 real time actionable information thereby enhancing the situational awareness and creating a “virtual arrival” scenario for officers responding to priority service calls
Recognizing the dedication of Sully Silva and her Block by Block team for their tireless work in maintaining Coconut Grove’s charm, Burns also acknowledged the invaluable contributions of his own staff members, including Marketing Director Kristell Hurtado, Events & Office Manager Venus Fernandez Lovely, and PR/communications expert Bill Kress of Kress Communications.
The event was made possible thanks to the generous support of bartaco’s Sales & Catering Manager, Natalie Brink, and her team, who provided a festive setting on the venue’s swanky second floor.
Looking ahead, Burns unveiled an exciting calendar of upcoming events—from summer festivities like the Dogs Days of Summer to beloved traditions such as Halloween and the Christmas Tree Lighting—that promise to keep Coconut Grove bustling with activity.
About the Coconut Grove BID
Established on April 1, 2009, the Coconut Grove Business Improvement District is dedicated to nurturing a thriving business environment in Miami’s historic district. Led by Chairman Damian Pardo and a board of nine distinguished business leaders and property owners, the BID oversees capital projects, marketing initiatives, cleanliness patrols, and community events. It serves as a vital resource for local businesses by promoting their interests and contributing to the vibrancy of the community.
