The City Administration recommends accepting by 5/7^th vote, and following a duly noticed public hearing, the installation of a commemorative plaque near the racquetball courts in Flamingo Park, in memory of Gene Howard, pursuant to Section 82-504 of the City Code.

During the October 13, 2021 City Commission meeting, the discussion on the placement of a plaque near the racquetball courts in Flamingo Park in commemoration of Gene Howard was referred to the Neighborhood and Quality of Life Committee.

At the October 29, 2021 Neighborhood and Quality of Life Committee meeting, the Committee approved the placement of a plaque near the Flamingo Park racquetball courts.

During the January 20, 2022 City Commission meeting, Commission accepted the recommendation of the Neighborhood and Quality of Life Committee, at its October 29, 2021 meeting, to approve the placement of a commemorative plaque near the racquetball courts in Flamingo Park, in memory of Gene Howard; setting a public hearing on February 9, 2022, pursuant to section 82-504 of the City Code, to consider the installation of the commemorative plaque; and directing the City Clerk to publish the appropriate public notice.

Gene Howard believed wholeheartedly in public access to sports and was a devoted racquetball player in Miami Beach. He began playing handball and racquetball at Flamingo Park in 1966, and did so continually at these public courts until 2011, when he was 70 years old. Mr. Howard won the statewide singles championship for the over-50 division in 1992. He also shared his passion by recruiting many young players to the game and always played to win, no matter the difference in ages.

Mr. Howard was known to give back to his community. He sponsored a baseball team at Flamingo Park in the 1980s, and chaired the Miami Beach Golf Committee. He also founded the successful Billy Shockett Golf Tournament, which raises funds supporting junior golf in the City.

Estimated $1,500

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