Committee backs job‑creation incentive application aimed at Lincoln Road; program funds disbursed only after hiring targets met

The Finance and Economic Resiliency Committee voted to recommend that the full City Commission approve a job‑creation incentive application for an unnamed private company proposing to locate on city property on Lincoln Road.

Steven Anthony, the city’s economic development director, described the city program as performance based: incentives are paid annually only after the business verifies the jobs and payroll targets it pledged to create. Anthony said the application under review could bring “over a hundred to a hundred and fifty white‑collar professional jobs” and cited advertised annual salaries in the company’s postings of about $175,000 for certain roles. Commissioners and staff stressed that awards are contingent on meeting the job‑creation milestones and are not paid up front.

Commissioners framed the application as part of a broader effort to diversify Miami Beach’s economy beyond hospitality and tourism, increase daytime foot traffic on Lincoln Road and support small retailers and restaurants. The committee and administration also discussed existing programs — including commercial lease subsidies and a business concierge service — and reported high interest from other prospective firms since the program cap was raised earlier this year.

The committee’s recommendation to approve the application and forward it with a favorable recommendation passed in committee. The item will go to the full commission for final action. Staff noted the program's legal and administrative safeguards and that payments will be verified annually before any incentive is disbursed.