At the February 9, 2022 Commission meeting a referral was placed  for discussion on the Finance and Economic Resiliency Committee agenda to discuss funding up to $25,000 for the athletic scoreboard to match funds from the Miami Dolphins.  The former Stephen Ross Field, named after Miami Dolphins owner Stephen Ross, is a turf field located at Miami Beach Senior High school. Miami Beach Senior High School is among the oldest public high schools in South Florida, and Miami Dolphins owner Stephen Ross is an alumnus from the class of 1958. Miami Beach Senior High School unveiled its newly renovated football field on January 29, 2020. The $1.1 million "legacy" Super Bowl project was funded through a partnership between the NFL, Miami-Dade County Public Schools, and the City of Miami Beach. The field is expected to impact students for decades to come. The field project was partially financed by a $250,000 donation from the Dolphins Foundation, and a $350,000 donation from the City of Miami Beach.

The Dolphin’s NFL Foundation will provide Miami Beach Senior High PTSA a $25,000.00 grant to fund a new athletic scoreboard for Miami Beach Senior High School.

Per Ann Hake, Senior Manager, Community Relations of the Miami Dolphins, “The Dolphins in partnership with the NFL Foundation are happy to provide $25,000 in matching funds for the fundraising for Stephen Ross Field to ensure the field remains in Mr. Ross’ name.”   (See attached email from Ann Hake dated January 14, 2022.)

The donation is contingent upon a match by the City of Miami Beach or PTSA or other entity to help complete the $50,000 cost of the scoreboard. The Dolphin donation is also contingent upon the field to remain in Stephen Ross’s name as it was in the past with his name on the scoreboard “Stephen Ross Field.” The City of Miami Beach may also have its logo placed on the scoreboard.

The Miami Beach Sr. High PTSA obtained a quote from the vendor Daktronics, which includes a maintenance plan covering 5 years vendor warranty for all parts. The vendor, Daktronics, agreed to repair any structural issue over the lifespan of the board, if it becomes compromised in any way. If there is an issue with the electric, the school will request a MDCPS work order for an electrician will come to repair the board. MBSH PTSA will pay for having a power system check every two years to ensure functionality. (See attached letter from Melissa DeLisle dated January 24, 2022.)

On April 7, 2022, the City received an email from Gilberto Bonce, Administrative Director MDCPS North Region Office, committing to match the City of Miami Beach's $12,500 for the purchase and installation of a new scoreboard at Miami Beach Senior High School.