City Manager

Employee Altruism in Sunny Isles Beach

Government Center in background with art installation or world in foreground.

By Christopher J. Russo, Former City Manager (Tuesday, January 29, 2019) – In my quarterly and monthly messages, I often discuss the larger, capital improvement projects we are working on, such as the Utility Under-grounding project, pedestrian bridges, or storm drainage projects. I would be remiss if I did not mention and recognize the extraordinary people behind the operation; the …

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Update on Short Term Vacation Rental Registrations

Short Term Vacation Rental Licenses. Three condominiums in Sunny Isles Beach.

By Christopher J. Russo, Former City Manager (Thursday, January 24, 2019) – When we would think about vacations or time away from home, it used to be about getting settled into a hotel room or maybe a relative’s beach house if budget was tight. Nowadays, the game plan is completely different. Some years ago, a couple of friends sharing a …

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Reflections on the Past Year & Looking Forward

Work progresses on the 174th Street Bridge

By Christopher J. Russo, Former City Manager (Friday, December 28, 2018) – January is typically the time to make resolutions, look toward the future, and set new goals. I want to first reflect on the great progress we made last year, and then discuss our plans for the upcoming year. Throughout the last couple of years, we have made remarkable …

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Utility Undergrounding Project Moves Into Next Phase

By Christopher J. Russo, Former City Manager (Monday, December 3, 2018) – The Utility Undergrounding Project has entered the next phase, the Collins Avenue Street Lighting Enhancement Phase. As you may recall, the City has been working for over three years to lay underground conduit the entire length of Collins Avenue. This caused some disruption and we are grateful for …

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A Vision for Public Art in Sunny Isles Beach

Building Reflecting Ocean in Side Glass Paneling

By Christopher J. Russo, Former City Manager (November 18, 2018) – On September 4, 2018, the City convened a joint workshop of the City Commission and the newly formed Public Arts Advisory Committee to discuss and develop a vision for planning public art in Sunny Isles Beach. During that workshop, there was a lengthy discussion about the City’s shared community …

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Traffic & Pedestrian Safety in Sunny Isles Beach

Traffic on Collins Avenue in Sunny Isles Beach with buildings and ocean view of coastline.

By Dwight Snyder, Former Police Chief (Saturday, November 3, 2018) – Normally this article is reserved for our City Manager who keeps us informed on capital projects and future innovative developments currently in the planning stages, which makes this a world class and cutting-edge community. This month the manager graciously gave his article space to the police department, so we …

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Budget Message for the 2018-2019 Fiscal Year

Budget Message Fiscal Year 2018-2019. Office of the City Manager

By Christopher J. Russo, Former City Manager (October 5, 2018) – In Accordance with Article IV Section 4.5 of the Charter of the City of Sunny Isles Beach, it is my honor and privilege to submit the Proposed Budget for fiscal year 2018 -2019. The filing of the 2018-2019 Fiscal Year Budget represents my thirteenth Budget as your City Manager. Our …

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The Importance of Succession Planning

Aerial view of the street and Pelican Community Park and SIB Government Center with City skyline in the background.

By Christopher J. Russo, Former City Manager (Friday, July 27, 2018) – I think we all know that a common objective, commitment, dedication, and consistent management are key to a productive and successful organization. A little over six years ago upon my return as City Manager, it was stressed by the then City Commission that we must have qualified backup …

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Sunny Isles Beach Coming of Age

Aerial view of Samson Oceanfront Park during Anniversary event.

By Christopher J. Russo, Former City Manager (July 26, 2018) – The common definition for the term coming-of-age is a description of the transition between childhood and adulthood. For some cultures, coming-of-age is determined at a specific age when a child is no longer a minor. Well, as of this past June, our City is no longer a child and has …

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