2025 was a year of active engagement, civic vigilance, and community involvement in North Miami Beach. From exploring city initiatives to holding local government accountable, WakeUp NMB worked to ensure that residents had a voice and stayed informed on issues that affect their neighborhoods, safety, and quality of life. Each month brought its own challenges and opportunities, and together, the community demonstrated the power of informed and engaged citizens.
January
Our first General Membership Meeting of the year welcomed City Manager Mario Diaz to discuss the proposed Septic to Sewer initiative. Residents were presented with critical information about the environmental and public health benefits of sewer systems, funding opportunities, projected scope and timeline, and other considerations. This meeting provided an important first step in keeping the community informed about a proposal that could impact many residents.
Later in the month, the City held the swearing-in ceremony for the new North Miami Beach Police Department leadership. After more than a year of acting chiefs, the installation of Chief Juan Pinillos and Deputy Chief Stuart Nichols marked a significant milestone in restoring permanent leadership to the department. Their official installation brought renewed confidence to residents eager to see stable and effective leadership at the helm of public safety.
February
In February, WakeUp NMB hosted its Monthly General Membership Meeting with Chief Juan Pinillos and Deputy Chief Stuart Nichols as guest speakers. The Chiefs shared their professional backgrounds and outlined their vision for the future of the North Miami Beach Police Department. Members asked numerous questions, all of which were addressed thoughtfully. This meeting gave the community the opportunity to engage directly with the new leadership and reinforced confidence in their commitment to public safety.
March
March’s meeting focused on real estate and property issues in North Miami Beach. Residents learned about the impact of building regulations and city policies on buying, selling, or maintaining property. J. Daniel Ozuna, Director of the Building Department, explained key regulations, the effect of building violations and permits, and property appraiser information. The meeting was well attended, with residents asking questions and gaining insight into how the Building Department’s work affects everyday decisions and long-term planning.
April
In April, WakeUp NMB welcomed Ian Fors, Acting Director of Parks and Recreation, and Assistant City Manager Andrew Plotkin to discuss city recreational programs and community events. Residents learned about sports leagues, fitness programs, nature trails, and family-friendly events, as well as how these programs support wellness and strengthen community connections.
Later that month, the City Manager announced his resignation. In North Miami Beach, this was just another day in the revolving door of City Managers. The position is demanding, and this resignation underscored how difficult it can be to find a manager equipped to handle the complex environment and pressures of governance in our city.
May
May featured an open-mic General Membership Meeting, allowing residents to voice concerns and questions about city governance. Discussions included transparency and competitive bidding, abandoned buildings and public safety, noise and traffic, trash and neighborhood decline, land use and facilities, water surcharges, and disappointment in representation.
At the May Commission meeting, residents expressed alarm over questionable decisions, including severance and consulting arrangements for the former City Manager and a trolley contract valued at $9.5 million, with extensions that could push the total to $13 million, awarded without competitive bidding. The meeting highlighted why civic engagement is essential to ensure that public funds are managed responsibly and the community is represented fairly.
June
June marked the final WakeUp NMB meeting before a summer break. Commissioner Lynn Su, six months into office and a former WakeUp NMB board member, joined the meeting to discuss her priorities, ongoing initiatives, and ways residents can stay informed about city government. Members participated in a meaningful discussion that reflected ongoing concerns and key issues in the city.
Later that month, WakeUp NMB members attended the North Miami Beach Commission Meeting wearing red to stand up for transparency, fiscal responsibility, and the right to speak on individual agenda items, not just at the start of meetings. Almost 20 residents spoke out on a range of pressing issues, including a $9.5 million no-bid trolley contract, a consulting payout to the former City Manager, dirty streets and graffiti, the $15-per-rider trolley cost, and ARPA funds mismanaged into general fund spending.
Residents also witnessed concerning behavior from the Mayor, who deflected criticism by twisting a speaker’s common phrase into an imagined personal attack. To date, residents still have not received a response from the Mayor or Commission regarding the trolley contract and the former City Manager payout.
WakeUp NMB members were a visible and vocal presence that evening, ensuring the community’s concerns were heard. Their attendance and participation highlighted the power of residents to demand accountability and transparency from their elected officials.
July and August
These months were a planned summer hiatus for General Membership Meetings, yet WakeUp NMB continued monitoring city actions and agenda items. Members stayed informed on developments, preparing for a busy fall while maintaining vigilance over city operations.
September
In September, Chief Financial Officer and Interim Deputy City Manager Tarik Rahmani presented an inside look at the City budget. Residents learned that North Miami Beach faced a $12.1 million shortfall, with reserves dropping from $16.9 million to $4.8 million, leaving minimal funds for emergencies. Nearly 60 percent of the General Fund went to salaries and benefits, lobbyist costs increased by $400,000, and contingencies added another $190,000. The Building Fund exceeded the state’s legal cap by $5 million. WakeUp NMB highlighted the need for responsible fiscal management and accountability for taxpayer funds.
October
No WakeUp NMB meeting was held in October due to City Hall closure for Columbus Day. However, the city released a video claiming a balanced budget with $5 million restored to reserves. WakeUp NMB produced a fact-based response to separate promotional claims from the actual financial status of the city, keeping residents informed and aware of fiscal realities.
November
November’s open-mic Holiday General Membership Meeting brought residents together for conversation, light bites, and meaningful discussion about what we want to see from our elected officials and city government in 2026. Residents raised concerns about police visibility, short-term rentals, speeding, vacant properties, and the need for stronger city legal support. Neighborhoods including Skylake, Eastern Shores, and Windward shared issues related to public safety, enforcement of city codes, and property maintenance. WakeUp NMB also corrected misleading claims from the Mayor’s budget video with factual information. Commissioners Smith and Su participated, listening and engaging with residents while WakeUp NMB continued advocating for accountability and follow-through on key issues.
December December focused on the critical selection of the next City Manager. The Special Commission Meeting revealed discrepancies in candidate submissions, with 22 names submitted instead of the expected 21. WakeUp NMB called for full transparency, requesting disclosure of which commissioners submitted which names, along with access to the resumes and applications of the top five candidates: Marline Monestime, Rasha Cameau, Darvin Williams, Hamid Nikvan, and Ricardo Mendez. The process underscored the need for accountability and a professional selection based on qualifications rather than political influence.
WakeUp NMB also participated in the City Holiday Parade for the third consecutive year, connecting with residents, spreading holiday cheer, and reinforcing that community engagement extends beyond governance oversight.
As 2025 concludes, WakeUp NMB reflects on a year of vigilance, community participation, and advocacy for transparent, accountable government. January 2026 will be pivotal as the City Commissioners select the next City Manager, and residents will need to remain engaged, informed, and ready to ensure that leadership is chosen based on competence, integrity, and a true commitment to serving the community. The year ahead also brings an important city election with three commission seats on the ballot. It will require an all-hands-on-deck effort from residents who care about North Miami Beach and want leaders who are prepared, present, and genuinely invested in our city’s future.
