Coconut Grove Village Council February Agenda

Coconut Grove Village Council February 2010 Agenda

Tell Miami Beach Police Dept. NO to Gay Bashing

Over the weekend, an article published in the Miami Herald caught my eye. Miami Beach police officers allegedly harassed a tourist named Harold Strickland last March because of his sexuality. This display of intolerance is unacceptable on many levels and should not be tolerated in our County. No one deserves to be discriminated against for any reason.
Please sign this petition to send a clear message to our local officials that this type of behavior will not go unpunished. 


-Stephen Murray
Coconut Grove Village Council

Response to City Commission Chairman's Press Release

City of Miami Commission Chairman Marc Sarnoff released a statement yesterday in regards to the tragic death of cyclist Christopher Lecanne last Sunday on the Rickenbacker Causeway at the hands of a drunk driver.  I agree with the Chairman’s position on the systemic problems revealed by this situation and would strongly support any measures he introduces to address the gaps exposed in our emergency response services. However, in his press release, the Chairman states:

“This tragedy highlights the dangers our cyclists and runners face each day on our roads from careless and drunk drivers. Next Thursday, Jan 28th at 5pm, the City Commission will decide whether or not to extend the hours alcohol in local bars from 3am to 5am. I’ve already received hundreds of emails from local cyclists warning of the danger, since so many rides on the Rickenbacker originate in Coconut Grove. This was even before the tragedy with Mr. Lecanne. I urge anyone with concerns to attend this important meeting to ensure their voice is heard by Commissioners. It is our duty to keep our roads safe.”

The attempt by Chairman Sarnoff to politicize this tragedy is unfortunate and inappropriate.  This incident allegedly occurred after the driver had been out in the downtown area at one of the 24 hour establishments that are permitted elsewhere in the Chairman’s district. The driver had numerous moving violations and this tragic accident points out the need to punish bad behavior when it occurs rather than preemptively restricting the actions of law-abiding customers. Pushing this into the debate about Coconut Grove’s Special District restriction on establishments serving alcohol underscores the Chairman’s determination to prevent the changes desired by a majority of his constituents. Both the Village Council and Chamber of Commerce have overwhelmingly voted against his position.

This is a reflection of the unfortunate political climate surrounding this divisive issue. Looking forward, I hope we can rise above this level of discourse to find an acceptable compromise to the controversy gripping our community. In these tough times, the City's time and resources would be better spent addressing the current financial crisis, investigations by the SEC and the culture of corruption that plagues our politics. Hopefully, under the Mayor's leadership, economic growth will be promoted by the City, not stifled.

-Stephen Murray

FIU Student News Service Video from Campaign

I know this is long overdue, but this is the video done at my Meet and Greet BBQ back in October. Thanks to everyone who put on the event and to the journalists from FIU who made the video!

Village Council Agenda for January 21st Meeting

Cgvc Master Agenda 1 10

Hope to see you there!

Stephen Murray
Councilman

Haiti

As you are all aware, Haiti is in a major crisis. The situation is devastating and heartbreaking. Luckily, people like my friend Melanie Aron are doing amazing work gathering supplies to be sent to help the international relief effort. Now is the time for our community to roll up our sleeves and get to work.

Melanie will be doing two more drop offs this weekend.

 

Supplies needed are: (Click Read More)

Endorsement of Philip Stoddard for Mayor of South Miami

I have just heard that Dr. Philip Stoddard, a biology professor at FIU, has decided to run against incumbent Horace Feliu for Mayor of South Miami. Phil and I have been working together since last April, when he first reached out to me about the Florida Power and Light transmission line issue. Since that time, he has been leading the charge regionally against FPL's proposed transmission lines, rate increases and added nuclear power plants at Turkey Point. His efforts have been instrumental in raising awareness about these issues. Phil is a true activist and someone of high moral character that the people of South Miami would be lucky to have represent them.

I urge you to cast your ballot for Dr. Philip Stoddard on February 9th.

-Stephen Murray
Councilman