Miami-Dade County has approved the sale of a nearly 4-acre parcel of vacant land near Miami International Airport to Habitat Creators Inc. for the development of workforce housing. The deal, which has drawn criticism from a former Miami Springs mayor who called it a "giveaway," involves a "nominal sum" for the property.
Cut-Rate Deal Sparks Controversy
Miami-Dade County commissioners unanimously voted to sell the land, located within Miami Springs’ city limits, to Habitat Creators Inc. for workforce housing. The developer plans to build over 20 townhouses, with prices estimated around $450,000 each. The sale is contingent on the developer adhering to income limits set by the county and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.
Former Mayor Slams "Giveaway"
Maria Mitchell, former mayor of Miami Springs, expressed strong disapproval of the sale, labeling it a "giveaway to a private developer." She stated that the City of Miami Springs was not notified of the sale, despite the property being within its boundaries. Mitchell had envisioned the land being used for a new City Hall or public safety complex. She also highlighted the county’s stated financial difficulties, questioning the decision to sell a valuable asset at a low price.
Developer’s Vision for Workforce Housing
Habitat Creators Inc. initially proposed building three 10-story apartment towers but scaled back the project to townhouses after Miami Springs raised concerns about the size. The developer, represented by attorney James Doddo, stated the project aims to increase homeownership opportunities for essential workers who are being priced out of the area. The project is facilitated by Florida’s Live Local Act, which provides incentives for affordable housing development.
Land Swap and Concerns
As part of the transaction, Miami-Dade Aviation will acquire a larger parcel of land from Miami-Dade Water & Sewer near Miami Springs High School. However, Commissioner Raquel Regalado voiced concerns about the land swap, particularly regarding the valuation and complexity of the Water & Sewer Department’s property, which has existing wells that may need relocation. The county maintains that the airport-owned land is surplus and generates no revenue, having remained vacant for over 25 years.
Key Takeaways
- Miami-Dade County is selling airport-adjacent land for workforce housing.
- A former Miami Springs mayor criticizes the sale as a "giveaway."
- The developer plans over 20 townhouses priced around $450,000.
- The sale is enabled by Florida’s Live Local Act for affordable housing.
- Concerns have been raised about the land swap involved in the deal.
Sources
- Land sale by MIA is ‘giveaway,’ says ex-Miami Springs mayor, Miami Herald.