Open Letter From the Mayor to Governor Crist Regarding the Historic Pier

Governor Charlie Crist
State of Florida
PL-05 The Capitol
Tallahassee, Florida 32399-0001

Re: The Historic Fishing Pier

Dear Governor Crist:

I am writing to request your assistance to preserve a state owned historic fishing pier which was severely damaged by Hurricane Wilma. The fishing pier is located in the City of Sunny Isles Beach.

Recently, the City had to close down the historic fishing pier due to unsafe conditions that were caused by Hurricane Wilma. Closing the historic pier was a very difficult decision for the City but we have to protect the safety of our residents and visitors.

As matter of background, the fishing pier has been around for more than seventy two (72) years and is a major tourist attraction. In fact, from the inception of the pier, more than a million people have enjoyed the amenities that the pier has to offer. These amenities include a beautiful view of the Atlantic Ocean and a wonderful fishing destination. Indeed, the pier is such a tourist attraction that it was designated by Miami-Dade County as a historic site in 1982. It would be a tragedy for the State of Florida and the City to allow this historic site to be destroyed by neglect or Hurricane Wilma.

As stated previously, Hurricane Wilma has caused severe damage to the pier. Unfortunately, the current operator of the pier has advised the City that he is unable to make the necessary repairs to the pier. The operator has approached the City about taking over the pier. The operator has indicated to us that the repairs would cost around $ 4 million dollars. As you probably know, this City, like other cities, has complied with the state mandated tax cuts. In doing so, we had to make certain difficult budget decisions. While the City is willing to take over the pier, the City does not have the funds to make the necessary repairs to the pier. As such, I am asking you to assist me to obtain the necessary funding from the Board of Trustees of the Internal Improvement Trust Fund to preserve and protect an important historic site owned by the State of Florida. I certainly believe that you will agree with me that it is in the best interest of our wonderful State to maintain this historic pier.

I hope that you will direct your staff to assist the City as soon as possible in this matter. Words truly cannot capture the urgency of this matter. Closing the pier for one day clearly has an impact on the tourism business in the City. Enjoying the amenities that the pier has to offer is no longer an option for the numerous hotels guests that are staying in the City.

I patiently await your response. Should need additional information about the pier, please feel free to contact me at (305) 792-1700. Thank you for prompt attention to this matter.

Sincerely,

Mayor Norman S. Edelcup.

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