Miami Gets A Million From Little Haiti Developers Who Incited Fears Of Gentrification

Developers who are planning to construct an enormous $1 billion project over 18 acres of Little Haitian land reported on Monday that they made a $3 million check magic city Miami to the magic city. It is the first of several payments made under an agreement that permits larger and more dense construction in return for investments in affordable housing and local businesses.

The funds come from the group behind the Magic City Innovation District controversial residential and commercial mega-development that in 2012 sparked debate among activist groups over how to deal with the gentrification process in Little Haiti. Miami commissioners approved the plans after months of lobbying the local community. The $31 million amount was made to a fund that is managed by a newly formed municipal agency that is not governed by a board.

The announcement of the initial payment came during the press conference in Little Haiti. Plaza Equity Partners, the developer of the development agreement, was required to pay $3 million over the first three months following the final vote of the commission. The city was challenged by a neighbor who filed a suit to contest the vote. A three-judge panel rejected the lawsuit in November. Monday's announcement was made.

Plaza Equity principal Neil Fairman stated that the donation is the first step in an investment that will last for the community. In six months, a second payment will be due to the Little Haiti Revitalization Trust board.

Fairman stated that they were delighted to present the check to the Little Haiti Revitalization Trust. This is just the beginning of many. "The Trust payment is part of our pledge that this active community will be empowered to give back, ensure local residents have business opportunities that create meaningful jobs and ensure economic prosperity for everyone. It also assists in preserving Little Haiti's vibrant cultural heritage."

Commissioners approved the creation of the trust a few months ago, however the selection of a board is only now being contemplated. The Miami city clerk will take requests for directors' appointments until March 12, at 4 p.m. The board will consist by five members who vote and one non-voting member who is between 15 and 18 years old.

Commissioner Jeffrey Watson, who represents Little Haiti, will appoint the entire board, with the exception of one, who will be named by City Manager Art Noriega. All appointments are dependent on approval from the remaining members of the city commission.

What is the Story of How the Little Haiti Trust was Created

It was never always feasible to create an entirely new community board that had a an estimated budget of more than a million dollars. An earlier proposal included the smaller public kitty and a promise to construct housing for the workforce on campus.

In early 2019, then-Commissioner Keon Hardemon struck a new $31 million budget quietly independent of community members who either strongly opposed the plan or wanted certain portions of the district's residential units to be affordably priced. Hardemon claimed that his new agreement was a step forward over the previous terms. The agreement guaranteed cash upfront when the project is built.