Commission advances South Miami Children's Clinic lease on first reading after strong public support

The City Commission voted 5–0 on first reading to approve an ordinance authorizing a lease with South Miami Children's Clinic Inc. for continued use of property at 6701 Southwest 58th Place and authorized the City Manager to execute the agreement. City Attorney noted the site is a franchise under the city charter and requires a four‑fifths vote for franchise approvals.

Doctor Scott, who identified herself as the clinic’s medical director, described the clinic as a ‘‘medical home’’ that sees roughly 1,700 patients a year (about 141 per month), provides telehealth and limited house calls, and serves a historically underserved, predominantly Black neighborhood across the street from the clinic. She said the clinic uses sliding-scale charity care alongside Medicaid billing to maintain continuity of care: “we pretty much function as a concierge direct patient care type of practice for a low income population,” she said.

Supporters at the public hearing included Dr. David Brown of Florida International University’s Neighborhood Health Program, who said the clinic is "embedded in this community," and other residents and community leaders who urged the Commission to preserve local access to pediatric care. Commissioners asked staff clarifying questions on building square footage and usage; the manager confirmed 4,130 square feet under roof based on property records presented during the hearing.

The item passed first reading; the mayor noted second reading will follow at the next scheduled meeting for final adoption.