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Developers propose five padel courts at Fuchs Park under a revenue‑share public‑private plan
Summary
A private operator proposed fully financing five padel courts at Fuchs Park; the developer offered a $36,000 annual guarantee plus a 10% revenue share, a $25,000 placeholder for a new tot lot and commitments on tree mitigation. Commissioners asked about parking, lights and neighborhood impacts.
A private developer told the City of South Miami Commission on Aug. 5 that it will fully finance construction of five padel courts at Fuchs Park and operate the facility under a public‑private agreement intended to generate recurring revenue for the city.
Jeffrey Garcia, working with partners including Renato Van Veil of Van Wegel Ventures LLC, presented a 10‑year financial model that proposes a guaranteed minimum payment to the city of $36,000 per year plus a 10% split of gross revenue. The team said capital costs would be covered by the developer and presented a conservative first‑year utilization model (three 90‑minute booking blocks per court on typical days). "Over 70% of those that answered said they were open, or excited about having Padel courts at the park," Garcia said, citing user surveys the team carried out.
Commissioners concentrated on potential neighborhood impacts: parking demand, lighting and tree removal. Commissioner Kaya pressed the team for a full footprint and parking analysis; staff and the developer said the park could accommodate the expected peak load but acknowledged weekends and special events would require an operational plan. The developer said no oak trees would be removed and committed to tree‑mitigation measures and to fund improvements to the playground; the proposal includes a $25,000 placeholder for relocating or upgrading the tot lot.
Mayor Javier Fernandez urged the team to build a restoration bond or letter of credit in the developers' model so the city could restore the site if the operator abandoned the project. The developer said courts arrive prefabricated and can be removed quickly if necessary. Commissioners also advised the applicant to study lighting spill and to align closing hours with other nearby city facilities; staff noted Dante Fascell park racket hours typically end at 9 p.m.
The commission did not take a vote on the proposal; staff will return with a recommended contractual vehicle, operating plan and further financial details if commissioners direct staff to proceed.
