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South Miami commissioners back keeping Mango Lots as passive parkland after community survey
Summary
After community meetings and an online survey that favored park-only use, the City Commission directed staff to keep the Mango Lots largely unimproved as passive parkland and to honor local history at the Marshall Williamson homestead area.
The City Commission of the City of South Miami on Aug. 19 directed city staff to retain the so-called Mango Lots largely as passive parkland after staff reported survey results and community feedback.
City Manager (staff) told the commission that an online survey and three community meetings produced 46 responses favoring park-only preservation and 11 favoring a mix of park and affordable housing. "In that case, I can report that the 46 had voted to keep it as a park only and 11 had voted to have a park and affordable housing on the site," the manager said. Commissioners debated minor, natural improvements but favored preserving most of the lots in their current, unimproved condition.
Commissioners also discussed honoring local history near the Marshall Williamson homestead and the portion already designated in honor of Dr. Anna Price. Mayor Fernandez and others said they support a modest set-aside of roughly 8,000 square feet near the homestead for a park and suggested exploring a memorial garden or scholarship naming to recognize the Williamson family and Dr. Price.
Public commenters urged care in the planning process. "We want to make sure we honor Mr. Williams and his family," a resident said, while others stressed the need to balance green-space preservation with the city’s housing needs. The commission asked staff to return with options and cost estimates for minimal, natural enhancements and to continue outreach to affected residents.
