Saturday, August 8, 2009

Comm. Joe Sanchez on Miami 21

This letter was sent Friday from Commissioner Joe Sanchez's office:

I sincerely believe in Miami 21 and I applaud the efforts of everyone that invested so much of their time in this plan. When I studied Miami 21, I envisioned a City where urban Miami would come to life. People walking in clean and wide pedestrian-friendly sidewalks. Bicyclists pedaling throughout well thought out bicycle lanes in many of Miami's corridors. An increase in trees and park space that we so desperately need, and so many other people-friendly features Miami 21 offers.

But, the plan presented before the Commission was awfully distorted! As I heard passionate support and criticism of this plan, I was truly torn. Ultimately, I decided to vote against this version of Miami 21 because I refuse to let this very important and much needed plan to be molded out of shape and from its original intent. Unfortunately, there are still many questions to answer and ponder regarding Miami 21. Also, many of the proposed amendments proffered by individuals with personal agendas twisted this plan so much, that if passed, their version of Miami 21 would have only brought about lawsuits and a needless financial burden upon our residents!

This is not the end of Miami 21 though. In due time, a plan featuring increased park space, improved public transportation, more pedestrian friendly corridors and increased bike lanes will come to Miami. I will make sure of it.

This plan will be revisited at an appropriate time, with the core benefits that it will bring to our residents. What we must immediately focus on is our City's budget, and doing away with high salaries and outrageous pension plans that are taking us and our residents to the verge of bankruptcy. This is a pressing matter and nothing should derail this Commission from focusing on providing serious aid to our tax payers.

Sincerely,

Joe Sanchez
Chairman
City of Miami Commission

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