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The Pinecrest Village Council’s meeting on February 11 turned into an unnecessary six-hour marathon over a straightforward request: a modest expansion of Bet Shira’s preschool and True North Classical Academy. Despite the temple and school meeting all zoning requirements, the council deferred its decision at 1:00 a.m.—a move that defied both logic and legality.
Village staff had already vetted and approved the proposal, confirming compliance with all code requirements. The plan included key improvements—enhanced roads, dedicated car queuing areas, landscaping, and staggered student shifts—to minimize any potential impact. The real traffic issue, as noted during the hearing, stems from Palmetto High School’s 2,650 students, who clog local roads without an internal drop-off system.
Leading up to the hearing, a vocal opposition group—driven largely by public school supporters—launched a campaign against the expansion, collecting signatures and rallying online. Yet, at the hearing, the overwhelming presence of over 150 supporters told a different story. Residents, neighbors, and legal representatives testified in favor of the project, citing the temple’s deep roots in Pinecrest and True North’s reputation for educational excellence. Ranked among Miami’s top schools, True North has earned national recognition, including a Blue Ribbon School of Excellence award. The expansion would allow 275 more students—many from Pinecrest—to access this top-tier education while securing financial stability for Bet Shira.
Despite compelling arguments and expert-backed studies confirming compliance, council deliberations took an alarming turn. Some members suggested imposing unnecessary conditions that would force True North to reapply from scratch—despite their clear legal right to expand. Mayor Corradino and others warned that any denial or undue restrictions would expose Pinecrest to legal liability, as Florida law protects applicants who meet zoning requirements from arbitrary rejection.
Now, the village faces a high-stakes decision. If the council bows to opposition pressure, Pinecrest could find itself entangled in an expensive and avoidable lawsuit. Instead of resisting a legally sound expansion that benefits local families, energy should be directed at the real traffic concern—Palmetto High. On March 6, the council has a chance to correct course and follow the law. The question is, will they?
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