Nitrogen and phosphorus fertilizer stays banned through Oct. 31
The summer fertilizer ban is in full effect, seniors can get causeway pass help, and the Village Green market is back Saturday.
Fertilizers containing nitrogen or phosphorus are off-limits on Key Biscayne from May 15 through October 31, and that window is in full effect right now. The Village's Fertilizer Ordinance also prohibits applying fertilizer near the water's edge and sets year-round requirements for responsible use. The seasonal ban is designed to keep nitrogen and phosphorus from washing into local waterways, where those nutrients can fuel harmful algal blooms, damage seagrass, and disrupt the marine ecosystem of Biscayne Bay. Miami-Dade County's regulations also prohibit phosphorus fertilizer outside the restricted season unless a soil test shows a deficiency. Spreader deflector shields are required near pavement, fertilizer-free zones and water bodies. (Miami-Dade County)
Rickenbacker pass renewal help for seniors set for July 23
Key Biscayne residents age 65 and older can get in-person help renewing their Rickenbacker Causeway annual pass at two upcoming Village sessions, the first on July 23 and a second on August 20. Miami-Dade County runs the causeway's annual-plan renewal program, which opens July 10 each year. The resident plan costs $72 per vehicle and requires an active SunPass, a driver's license with a Key Biscayne address, matching vehicle registration and proof of residency. Plans run from October 1 through September 30 and are limited to two-axle non-commercial vehicles. (Miami-Dade County)
Village signs new youth soccer contract after complaint
The Village Council approved a new agreement with the Key Biscayne Soccer Club intended to improve accountability and fairness in the island's youth soccer program. The decision followed a Council meeting where parents debated what the program should look like. The contract came after former Real Madrid player David Rodriguez raised complaints about the program. (Key Biscayne Independent)
Tax Collector brings driver's license services to Community Center
The Miami-Dade County Tax Collector's Office is bringing a driver's license and services event to the Key Biscayne Community Center on August 18. Services include driver's license renewals, replacements and reinstatements, original and renewal state IDs, car registration renewals, organ-donor and restriction changes, and handicap-permit applications and renewals. Residents must bring original documents proving identity: for U.S. citizens, that means a passport, passport card, U.S. birth certificate, or naturalization certificate, plus a Social Security card and proof of address. Those who already hold a REAL ID, shown by a yellow star on the current license or ID, do not need to bring documents, except for non-immigrants or anyone changing their address. (Key Biscayne Chamber events)
Two hospitalized after watercraft collision near causeway
Two men were hospitalized after their personal watercraft collided June 25 off Key Biscayne near the Rickenbacker Causeway. According to Miami Fire Rescue, both were taken to Ryder Trauma Center in stable condition. The collision happened on the water just off the island. (NBC Miami)
Regular Council Meeting set for August 25
The Village's next Regular Council Meeting is scheduled for August 25. The official Granicus portal lists the date in its upcoming events, but a meeting time and agenda were not posted as of the July 16 issue date. The same page lists a first budget hearing and Regular Council Meeting on September 8, followed by a second budget hearing on September 22. Later Regular Council Meetings are listed for October 13, November 10 and December 15. (Key Biscayne council portal)
Farmer's Market returns to the Village Green on Saturday
The Key Biscayne Farmer's Market returns Saturday, July 18, at 1 p.m. on the Key Biscayne Village Green, with a spread of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and one-of-a-kind crafts. It's an open-to-all stop for anyone looking to shop local over the weekend. (Key Biscayne Independent events)
Chamber networking night with Inter Miami CF set for July 22
The Key Biscayne Chamber and Inter Miami CF are hosting a South Florida Networking Night on Wednesday, July 22, at Nu Stadium at Miami Freedom Park, with discounted tickets offered to attendees. Members are encouraged to bring colleagues along for the evening. (Key Biscayne Chamber events)