On November 16, 2022, at the request of Commissioner Fernandez, the City Commission referred to the Public Safety and Neighborhood Quality of Life Committee (PSNQLC) a discussion on the feasibility of using the North Beach Community Redevelopment Agency (“CRA”) Enhanced Services Fund, to support night-time patrols of the Beachwalk, the beach, and other areas of North Beach.

The North Beach CRA was created in February 2021 and fully established in July 2021 via an Interlocal Agreement between Miami-Dade County, the City of Miami Beach, and the North Beach CRA. Fiscal Year 2023 reflects the first year the CRA could budget and appropriate tax increment revenue. On September 28, 2022, the North Beach CRA Board (Mayor and City Commission) adopted Resolution No. 007-2022, approving the Fiscal Year 2023 budget, including an appropriation of $100,000 for enhanced community policing services.

Since beginning North Beach CRA initiatives in October 2022, the Police Department has seen a positive impact in the North Beach community. As of June 7, 2023, approximately $45,000 has been utilized for community policing services within the North Beach CRA district boundaries, including crime prevention initiatives, pro-active policing and response to calls for service. The funding has been primarily used within the business districts and surrounding areas.

The Police Department uses a separate funding source for citywide Beachwalk patrols, including peak evening hours in North Beach. At this juncture, the Police Department feels the current appropriation of funding and staffing maximizes the coverage area in an effective and efficient manner. No additional funding is recommended at this time.