Dear Museum Supporter -
The testimony, at the first County Budget hearing, from representatives of more than 20 cultural organizations, ranging from major cultural institutions to small neighborhood groups and artists, reflected the fortitude, passion and vision that have come to define our cultural industry.
During the subsequent discussion among County Commissioners, several Commissioners expressed support for program restorations in various areas of the budget, including our Department’s budget. Ultimately, a majority of the County Commission voted to set the operating millage at a flat rate; overall, this will result in approximately $17 million less in revenue than what was proposed by Mayor Alvarez.
Mayor Alvarez and the County Manager commented that it would be very difficult to achieve the various budget restorations discussed given that the County Commission voted on a millage rate that is even lower than that recommended by the Mayor. The Mayor and County Manager also committed to working cooperatively with the Commission to find solutions wherever possible.
So from now until September 17th, it is extremely important that we help sway the final budgetary decision. We ask that you CALL your commissioners! If you can’t get them on the phone, ask to speak to their chief of staff or leave a voice message – just make sure to mention that you are calling on behalf of the Miami Science Museum. Mentioning our Museum is of utmost importance!
If you’re still not sure who your commissioner is or what district you belong to, follow this link http://gisims2.miamidade.gov/CServices/CSMap.asp
Below is a complete listing of contact information.
Chair Dennis Moss
305-375-4832; dennismoss@miamidade.gov
Vice Chair Jose "Pepe" Diaz
305-599-1200;district12@miamidade.gov
Barbara Jordan
305-474-3011;district1@miamidade.gov
Dorrin Rolle
305-694-2779; district2@miamidade.gov
Audrey Edmondson
305-636-2331; district3@miamidade.gov
Sally Heyman
305-787-5999; district4@miamidade.gov
Bruno Barreiro
305-673-7743; district5@miamidade.gov
Rebecca Sosa
305-267-6377; district6@miamidade.gov
Carlos Gimenez
305-669-4003; district7@miamidade.gov
Katy Sorenson
305-378-6677; district8@miamidade.gov
Javier Souto
305-222-2116; district10@miamidade.gov
Joe Martinez
305-552-1155; district11@miamidade.gov
Natacha Seijas
305-375-4831; No email; Fax 305-375-2011
Mayor Carlos Alvarez
305-375-5071; mayor@miamidade.gov
Also, remember that you are welcome to attend the final meeting where the budget will be finalized. Remember to wear your MiaSci buttons! Buttons will also be available in the lobby of the Stephen P. Clarke building prior to the meeting (where the County Commission Chamber is situated).
Thursday, September 17, 2009
County Commission hearing to finalize FY2009-2010 budget
5:01p.m.
County Commission Chamber (111 NW 1st Street, 2nd Floor)
For additional information on the issue, please visit www.miamisci.org/www/call-to-action.html, reply to this e-mail or call 305-646-4209.
Thanks in advance for your help and support.
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Tony Lima
tlima@miamisci.org
305-646-4209
Adriana Villar
avillar@miamisci.org
305-646-4405
To learn which is your County Commissioner and/or Commission District use the following link
Template Letter to Commissioner
Commissioner Contact Information
Message from Gillian Thomas, MiaSci President and CEO
