David Weingot, Commissioner dweingot@townofsurfsidefl.gov
MESSAGE FROM THE ACTING TOWN MANAGER MARIO A. DIAZ
Dear Friends and Neighbors: As May arrives, it brings with it a series of important observances that invite our community to reflect, honor, and come together in appreciation of others.
Did you know that Older Americans Month was established in 1963 by the Administration for Community Living (ACL) and is celebrated every May? The observance is designed to celebrate seniors, promote healthy aging, and combat social isolation through community engagement. It recognizes the achievements, wisdom, and ongoing contributions of older adults, highlighting their vital role in our communities. Older Americans Month also encourages support, raises awareness of aging trends, and challenges age-related stereotypes, ensuring that older residents feel valued, engaged, and included. Surfers, take the time this month to meet and greet our seniors and celebrate their contributions.
Speaking of appreciation, May begins with Mother’s Day, celebrated on the second Sunday, offering an opportunity to honor the love, care, and dedication of mothers and maternal figures. Soon after, Armed Forces Day, observed on the third Saturday, reminds us to recognize and thank the men and women currently serving in the United States military for their commitment and sacrifice.
At the close of the month, Memorial Day provides a solemn moment to honor and remember those who gave their lives in service to our country. In addition to these observances, May is nationally recognized as Military Appreciation Month, Mental Health Awareness Month, Skin Cancer and Melanoma Awareness Month. Each initiative draws attention to important issues, promoting community well-being and public health.
Throughout the month, residents are encouraged to take time to reflect on these observances, participate in local activities, and show appreciation for the individuals and causes that make our community strong.
As the community moves forward following the recent elections and runoffs, May represents a period of renewal for the Town of Surfside. The Town remains committed to promoting transparency, strengthening community engagement, and enhancing the quality of life for all residents.
This season also marks the start of an important planning process. As the Town prepares its annual budget, the Commission, staff, and community will participate in a strategic planning initiative designed to do more than set spending priorities. It will establish shared goals, align our efforts across departments, and build a foundation for where Surfside is headed in the years ahead. That process works best when everyone has a voice, and we are committed to making sure residents have opportunities to be part of it.
With a renewed sense of purpose and a shared roadmap in front of us, Surfside moves forward as one team.
For Town Fun in Surfside… Surfers are encouraged to visit the 96th Street Surfside Farmers Market on Saturdays and Sundays through May 31, 2026. This is the last chance to enjoy fresh produce, local goods, and community connection before the season comes to a close.
As part of the Town’s historical programming, Dr. Paul George will lead a walking tour on Sunday, May 3, highlighting Surfside’s rich history and heritage. Registration is required, and space is limited.
On Memorial Day, Monday, May 25, the community is invited to honor and remember U.S. service members who gave their lives in military service, join us at 10 a.m. at Veterans Park.
Throughout May, Surfside’s Parks & Recreation Department continues to offer a variety of seasonal programs, including fitness classes, youth sports, senior activities such as the May Senior Brunch, and community gatherings that bring neighbors together. These events provide residents of all ages with opportunities to stay active, learn, and celebrate the vibrant spirit of the Surfside community.
Residents are encouraged to visit the Town Calendar to stay informed about upcoming meetings, events, and activities throughout May.
Together, we nurture a community that is stronger, healthier, and more connected.
Remember Surfers…“May is the month of expectation, the month of wishes, the month of hope.” -Emily Brontë
Poetry lovers, are you in the lineup for Betty Beret to judge your poem?
Drop your best poem and hang tight, May 12 brings the results and some seriously epic prizes!
See page 8 for info
MESSAGE FROM THE CHIEF OF POLICE CHARLES R. PRESS
Summer is almost here, and with it comes an exciting but busy season for our community. In June and July, Surfside will be at the center of the action as FIFA brings world-class soccer to our area. We welcome the energy and enthusiasm this event will bring, but residents should be prepared for significant traffic impacts throughout the surrounding area during this time. The Surfside Police Department will have officers deployed to manage the influx and keep traffic moving as safely and efficiently as possible. We appreciate your patience in advance.
As always, June 1st also marks the start of Hurricane Season. We strongly encourage all residents to make their emergency preparations now, before a storm is on the horizon. This includes assembling an emergency kit, reviewing your family’s evacuation plan, and being ready to leave Surfside promptly if an evacuation order is issued by the Mayor of Miami-Dade County. Early preparation saves lives, and we urge you not to wait.
From all of us at the Surfside Police Department, we thank each of you for your continued support and partnership in keeping our community safe. It is a privilege to serve you, and we look forward to a safe and enjoyable summer season together.
News From Town Hall
News From Town Hall
HAZARDOUS WASTE DROP-OFF AHEAD OF HURRICANE SEASON
Just in time for Hurricane Season, the Town of Surfside is hosting its annual hazardous waste drop-off event!
Bring your hazardous waste products to Town Hall on Saturday, May 16 from 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.
All materials must be sealed tightly and properly to avoid any spills. All materials that is loose (i.e. batteries) must be bagged.
All bio-hazardous waste/medical waste (sharps) must be secured (capped and bagged).
Electronic devices will be accepted as well.
Accepted: antifreeze, household chemicals or fertilizers, propane tanks, paint and paint thinner, household pesticides, batteries, pool chemicals and used motor oil.
Not Accepted: mercury thermostats/thermometers or devices/items containing mercury, medicine/pharmaceutical waste
Public Works staff reserves the right to refuse residents if the guidelines are not followed. For ammunition and/or prescription drug drop-off, contact Surfside Police at 305-861-4862. For more information on the hazardous waste drop-off, contact Public Works at 305-861-4863.
APRIL COMMISSION MEETING ACCOMPLISHMENTS
• Resolution Certifying the March 17, 2026 Election Results
• Resolution Approval for Arbor Day
• Resolution Approving the 4th of July Drone Show
• Resolution Approving the 4th of July Fireworks Show
• Resolution Appointing Acting Town Manager
• Resolution Approving Budget Amendment No. 4
• Resolution Approving Phase 2 of Town Fee Allocation Study by JRD & Associates
• Resolution Ratifying the Re-Naming of the Park at Bay Drive and 92nd Street as “Little Bay Park”
• Resolution Approving an Additional Expense of $110,498.90 for Liftoff, LLC for Additional Licenses for the Use and Subscription to Microsoft Office 365
• Resolution Ratifying Outside Counsel Agreements with the Barthet Firm and Nabors Giblin Nickerson P.A.
• Resolution Approving Agreement with PaybyPhone US, Inc
• Ordinance Adopting Design Guidelines
• Ordinance Amending Town Code 2-206, Rule 7.02(a) and (b) – Public Participation
• Ordinance Creating Town Code Section 90.18(a)(2)(d): Planning and Zoning Board Review of Municipal Construction
• Approval to Engage Game Changers Consulting for a Strategic Planning
• Nominated Commissioner Vildostegui as the Director and Commissioner Travani as Alternate Director to the Miami- Dade League of Cities
News From Town Hall
SURFSIDE RAISES FLAG FOR AUTISM ACCEPTANCE MONTH
Elected Officials raised the Autism Acceptance flag at Town Hall, marking April as a month dedicated to celebrating inclusion, supporting families, and promoting understanding of autism.
April is recognized as Autism Acceptance Month, formerly known as Autism Awareness Month, with the goal of fostering understanding and appreciation of the experiences of autistic individuals. World Autism Awareness Day is observed each year on April 2.
Commissioner Regalado donated the flag to Surfside to help honor the month and encourage community engagement. Newly Elected Officials participated in the ceremony, symbolizing the Town’s commitment to inclusivity and support for residents and families affected by autism.
TOWN COMMISSION REINFORCES COMMITMENT TO TRANSPARENCY
The Town Commission came together on Monday, April 13, for a mandatory ethics training led by Commission on Ethics and Public Trust, Executive Director Ignacio Vasquez at Town Hall. These sessions help ensure the Town continues to serve the community with transparency, accountability and integrity. The training provided an opportunity for elected officials to review ethical standards, public trust responsibilities and best practices in governance.
ALERT! HURRICANE SEASON BEGINS JUNE 1
As hurricane season approaches, the Town of Surfside Police Department urges residents to prepare early. Planning ahead helps protect families, reduce risks, and ensure a faster response if severe weather impacts the community.
Residents should review and update family hurricane plans, know their evacuation zone and routes, inspect storm shutters, secure outdoor furniture, restock emergency supplies including medications, water, batteries, and important documents, and sign up for local emergency alerts. Early preparation keeps Surfside safe and allows first responders to focus on critical needs during a storm. Residents are encouraged to begin preparations now rather than wait for a forecast. For hurricane preparedness resources, contact the Surfside Police Department or visit the Town’s website. Stay safe and stay prepared this hurricane season.
News From Town Hall
HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY
This Mother’s Day, the Town of Surfside celebrates and honors the mothers, grandmothers and maternal figures whose love, strength and dedication help shape our families and strengthen our community.
Mothers play an extraordinary role in nurturing future generations, offering guidance, support and compassion in ways both seen and unseen. Their contributions are reflected not only in their families, but in the fabric of the community through service, leadership and care for others.
On this special day, the Town recognizes and thanks all mothers for the countless ways they inspire, sacrifice and lead with love. Surfside wishes all mothers a joyful and well-deserved Mother’s Day celebration.
The Town Commission has recently amended the Town Code to adopt an official exterior paint color palette for properties throughout the municipality. The new provision is intended to promote a consistent and harmonious visual character while preserving the Town’s unique aesthetic identity.
Under the updated code, property owners planning to repaint the exterior of a house are not required to obtain a building permit. However, prior to beginning work, owners must apply for and receive a Zoning Approval Letter confirming that the proposed paint color complies with the adopted color swatch palette.
The application allows the Town Planner to review the selected color for consistency with the approved palette and ensure compliance with community design standards. This process helps maintain an attractive and coordinated streetscape across the neighborhood.
Questions regarding the application process or palette options may be directed to the Planning Department.
The Town appreciates residents’ cooperation in supporting this initiative to preserve and enhance the community’s overall appearance.
TOWN ADOPTS OFFICIAL PAINT COLOR PALETTE
Police Beat
SPD COMMAND STAFF, COMMUNITY LEADERS MEET AHEAD OF PASSOVER TO STRENGTHEN SAFETY
Ahead of Passover, the Surfside Police Department joined the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office, regional law enforcement partners, community leaders and faith representatives for a Pre-Passover Holiday Safety Meeting.
The collaborative meeting focused on coordinating safety measures, strengthening partnerships and supporting a safe and secure holiday for all who celebrate. The effort reflects the Department’s ongoing commitment to public safety, preparedness and strong community relationships.
SURFSIDE POLICE HONORS OFFICER TAMMY CAMPBELL
The Surfside Police Department is proud to recognize Officer Tammy Campbell as its featured officer for May, honoring 26 years of dedicated service to the Surfside community. Officer Campbell has been named Officer of the Month multiple times and has earned the Department’s Officer of the Year Award three times, most recently in 2024.
In 2012, she also received Officer of the Month recognition from the Dade Chiefs Association for her role in apprehending a bank robbery suspect.
Her record reflects a longstanding commitment to professionalism, integrity and public service. The Town of Surfside thanks Officer Campbell for her exceptional service and continued dedication to the community.
SURFSIDE TO HOST SCOOTER AND ELECTRIC BIKE SAFETY EVENT ON MAY 6
The Town of Surfside will host a Scooter and Electric Bike Safety Event on May 6 to promote safe riding practices and raise awareness among riders and drivers.
The event will highlight key safety reminders, including staying alert for pedestrians and vehicles, obeying all traffic signals and stop signs, and yielding to pedestrians in crosswalks. Riders are also encouraged to use hand signals, wear reflective gear when riding at night and always wear a helmet, which is required by law for riders under 16.
Drivers are reminded to remain alert, obey speed limits and watch for scooters and electric bikes throughout Town roadways. The initiative aims to support safer streets for all users and reinforce shared responsibility on the road.
The Surfside Police Department is reminding motorists to obey posted stop signs and follow traffic laws following an increase in traffic violations across Town. Failure to stop at intersections creates serious safety risks for drivers, pedestrians, micromobility users, cyclists and families.
Patrol and traffic enforcement officers are actively monitoring roadways, and violations may result in citations, fines and points on a driver’s license.
Uptown FunTown
MFF BY MOONLIGHT SERIES FOR “ONE LIFE”
On March 22, the Resort Tax Board partnered with the Miami Film Festival (MFF) to host its second beachside screening of the season, featuring the film “One Life.” The evening offered a relaxed atmosphere, with attendees enjoying the idyllic weather conditions in addition to complimentary popcorn, snacks and iced tea. Vice Mayor Benmergui, Commissioner Vildostegui and Commissioner Weingot were all in attendance alongside Tourism Director Frank Trigueros and representatives from the MFF.
CONTEST ALERT! SUBMIT YOUR POEM FOR A CHANCE TO WIN A SURFSIDE EXPERIENCE
The Town of Surfside is launching a first-of-its-kind community poetry contest celebrating the creativity and literary talent of our residents. Writers, poets and artists of all ages are invited to participate by sharing an original poem inspired by Surfside. How to Enter
1. Share your poem on Instagram.
2. Tag @SurfsideFlorida and include #I ❤Surfside in your post.
3. Scan the QR code and complete the submission form with your information.
Submission Deadline
Sunday, May 3, by the end of the day
Bonus: Include why #I ❤Surfside in your poem for extra creativity points.
Categories & Prizes
Children (Under 13)
Gift card to 16 Handles Ice Cream
Teenagers (Ages 13-18)
Gift card to Flanigan’s Seafood Bar and Grill
Adults (18 and older)
Gift certificate for a Surfside experience at Four Seasons Hotel at The Surf Club
Winners Announcement
Winners will be announced during the May 12 Town Commission Meeting. Winning poems will also be displayed throughout Town Hall and featured in a half-page spread in the June Gazette.
Tell us why you #I ❤Surfside. Celebrate the community through poetry.
Uptown FunTown
NWSA DESIGNED TURTLE SCULPTURES INSTALLED AT 92ND STREET
The Town of Surfside kicked off Earth Month with the unveiling of two vibrant fiberglass turtle sculptures on Thursday, April 2, at the beach entrance located at 92nd Street and Collins Avenue. Designed by students from New World School of the Arts (NWSA), the colorful installations add a creative new touch to the Town’s growing public art collection while celebrating Surfside’s coastal identity and commitment to sustainability. Representatives from NWSA were on hand for the occasion along with winners Nicole Serrano and Noah Caballero, who had their designs realized, and third-place winner Angela Munoz.
VOTE FOR SURFSIDE IN USA TODAY’S BEST BEACH IN FLORIDA LIST
Help put our shoreline in the spotlight! Surfside has been nominated for USA TODAY’s Best Beach in Florida list, and your vote can make all the difference. From our pristine sands and pre-Caribbean waters to the relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere, there’s nothing like a day at the beach in Surfside. Cast your vote through Monday, May 18.
TOWN PARTNERS WITH MJFF FOR “MAZEL TOV” FILM SCREENING
On April 12, the Resort Tax Board teamed up with the Miami Jewish Film Festival for the second consecutive year to host an exclusive beachside screening in Surfside at 93rd Street beach. This year’s film, Mazel Tov, was an acclaimed dramedy produced in Argentina detailing the complex family dynamics as it explores loss and connection. Visitors and residents filled every available seat and brought out blankets and chairs to enjoy the occasion, which also included complimentary popcorn and snacks.
Uptown FunTown
PADDLETOPIA RETURNS
MAY 16 AND 17, PADDLE FOR PLASTIC WITH @PLASTICFISHERMAN
Get ready to make a splash at Surfside’s Paddletopia, returning May 16-17 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 96th Street Park! Enjoy complimentary paddleboarding, energizing fitness demonstrations and classes, live music, local vendors, and even a rock-climbing experience for all ages. New this year, Paddletopia introduces “Paddle for Plastic” (Sunday Only) with @plasticfisherman. Venture out into the Bay, collect plastic along the way, and redeem your findings for cool prizes at designated stations — helping protect our waterways while you paddle. To help reduce wait times, anyone who owns their own paddleboard or kayak is strongly encouraged to bring it along and launch right into the fun.
This free community event is proudly sponsored by the Resort Tax Board. Don’t miss two days of outdoor adventure, wellness, and eco-friendly fun in Surfside!
THIRD THURSDAY SERIES WRAPS WITH NIGHT IN ASIA
Surfside’s Third Thursday series took guests on an unforgettable journey across Asia at its closing event on March 19. The evening transformed the space into a vibrant cultural showcase celebrating the traditions of India, China, and Japan. Attendees were immersed in a colorful lineup of performances, from the powerful rhythms of a Japanese Taiko drumming show to the colorful spectacle of a Chinese Dragon Lion Dance and the high-energy movements of an Indian Bollywood and Bhangra performance. Guests also enjoyed henna tattoo artistry, tested their strength in sumo wrestling, and explored calligraphy painting with Harding Avenue’s PotterMe. Culinary offerings further enhanced the experience, featuring a curated selection of flavors from across Asia. Guests sampled kosher caramelized fruit skewers inspired by China, Japanese katsu sando and sushi, and Indian favorites like samosas and pani puri, along with complimentary beverages for adults 21 and over. Photos by Visit Surfside, Tina Paul, Arhlene Ayalin.
It Starts In Parks
FROM CODE COMPLIANCE: IT’S SEA TURTLE NESTING SEASON!
Sea turtle nesting season has officially begun in Miami-Dade County, but sometimes, these amazing animals even arrive a little early! Each year, our beaches become an important home for nesting sea turtles and their tiny hatchlings.
To help protect them, the Town of Surfside has lighting guidelines in place. When hatchlings emerge, they naturally follow the brightest light, ideally the moon over the ocean. Artificial lights from buildings can confuse them, leading them in the wrong direction.
Keeping our beaches dark makes a big difference. Not only does it help hatchlings find their way safely to the water, but it also encourages mother turtles to come ashore and nest.
If you live on the east side of Collins Avenue, you play an especially important role in protecting these incredible creatures. Here are a few easy ways you can help:
• Turn off lights that aren’t needed at night
• Close your blinds or curtains, or use window tint to keep indoor light from reaching the beach
• Move lamps and other lights away from windows
With just a few small changes, we can all work together to keep our beaches safe for sea turtles. Thank you for being part of the effort to protect one of nature’s most special visitors!
SURFSIDE PARKS DIRECTOR PARTICIPATES IN STATEWIDE LEADERSHIP SUMMIT
Surfside Parks and Recreation Director Rudy Perez attended the two-day, invitation-only Florida Recreation and Park Association Agency Summit designed for senior parks leaders across Florida. The program focused on workforce development, ADA accessibility, and innovative facility operations, with sessions led by national experts and tours of cutting-edge recreational venues.
The Summit provided an opportunity to exchange ideas, explore strategic partnerships, and strengthen leadership approaches that support high-quality parks and recreation services for the Surfside community.
It Starts In Parks
SURFSIDE FAMILIES TURN OUT FOR SPRING EGG HUNTS AND SEASONAL FUN
Families across the Town gathered March 28-29 to celebrate the arrival of spring with two Parks and Recreation Department events that brought together residents of all ages for outdoor fun and community connection.
On Saturday, March 28, children and their families enjoyed the “Splash Into Spring: Duck and Egg Hunt” at the Surfside Community Center pool. The event featured a unique twist on the traditional egg hunt, with participants collecting floating eggs and ducks in the water, along with music and interactive activities.
The celebration continued Sunday, March 29, at 96th Street Park with the annual Spring Egg Hunt. Dozens of families filled the park as children searched for colorful eggs, enjoyed music and spent time outdoors with neighbors and friends.
“These events are about creating joyful experiences for our residents and bringing families together in a meaningful way,” said Parks and Recreation Director, Rudy Perez. “It is always rewarding to see the community come out, connect and make memories.”
Both events were free for Surfside residents and reflected the Town’s ongoing commitment to offering accessible, family-friendly programming throughout the year.
The Parks and Recreation Department encourages residents to stay engaged and look ahead to upcoming events planned in celebration of Memorial Day in May.
It Starts In Parks
SURFSIDE CELEBRATED EARTH DAY WITH RESOURCE FAIR AND PLASTIC FISHING FESTIVAL
Surfside celebrated Earth Month on April 19 with its annual Earth Day Resource Fair and Plastic Fishing Festival at 93rd Street Beach, bringing together residents and visitors for a day of environmental awareness, education and community engagement. The event featured environmental partners and vendors, interactive activities for families and a special performance by the internationally acclaimed Recycled Orchestra. Representatives from Pelican Harbor Seabird Station also participated, including the release of a rehabilitated seagull, offering attendees a memorable reminder of the importance of wildlife conservation.
Participants joined the Plastic Fishing Festival, collecting plastic debris from the shoreline and transforming it into creative art as part of a global initiative promoting ocean conservation and reducing marine pollution. The annual event highlighted Surfside’s continued commitment to sustainability, environmental stewardship and protecting the natural resources that make the community unique. Both events were free for Surfside residents and reflected the Town’s commitment to providing accessible, family-friendly programming throughout the year. The Town also extends its appreciation to Elected Officials Dayana Benmergui, Andrea Travani, Gerardo Vildostegui and David Weingot for attending and supporting this year’s Earth Month celebration.
REFRESH YOUR BEACH SAFETY KNOWLEDGE
HOW TO BREAK
THE GRIP OF THE RIP:
•Don’t fight the current.
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•Swim out of the current then to shore.
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•If you can’t escape, float or tread water.
•Call or wave for assistance.
9 7:00-6:00
• Always swim in a lifeguarded area.
• Never swim alone, regardless of your age or level of swimming skills.
*Conditions available during beach tower operations.
• Be aware of weather and water conditions and heed warnings. For daily beach conditions, contact the Community Center at
• Keep within your fitness and swimming capabilities.
