Public Notice: Official Health Advisories and Community Service Updates

Public Health Advisory: Mosquito-Borne Illness Alert

The Florida Department of Health in Miami-Dade County has issued a mosquito-borne illness alert for the region following the identification of locally acquired and imported cases of chikungunya. Residents are advised to exercise increased caution as the local subtropical climate and recent travel trends have facilitated transmission. Officials urge the public to follow the "Drain and Cover" protocol to minimize risk.

• Drain: Regularly empty standing water from garbage cans, house gutters, pool covers, coolers, and pet water bowls.
• Cover: Wear shoes, socks, and long pants and sleeves when outdoors. Apply mosquito repellent containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus.
• Screens: Ensure that window and door screens are in good repair to prevent mosquitoes from entering the home.

Miami Beach: Fight the Flood Grant Applications Open

The City of Miami Beach is now accepting applications for the 2026 round of the "Fight the Flood" Private Property Adaptation program. This initiative provides residential and commercial property owners with up to $20,000 in reimbursement grants for eligible flood mitigation projects. The program is designed to strengthen neighborhood resilience against sea-level rise and seasonal flooding.

• Eligibility: Open to owners of single-family homes, multi-family complexes, and local businesses.
• Project Types: Eligible improvements include seawalls, building elevation, temporary flood barriers, permeable pavers, and rain gardens.
• Application Window: Submissions are accepted from February 24 through April 24, 2026.

Community Services: Free VITA Tax Preparation

The City of Miami continues to offer free tax preparation services for the 2026 tax season through the IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program. Services are hosted at José Martí Park and are available to residents earning up to $69,000 annually. Certified volunteers provide assistance with electronic filing and claims for the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC).

City Governance: Commission Meeting Recap

Following the regularly scheduled City Commission meeting on Thursday, February 26, the City Clerk’s office has updated the public record regarding upcoming legislative hearings. Residents are reminded that any items not reached during the previous session may be carried over to the next scheduled meeting on March 12, 2026, at City Hall. Public comment remains open for upcoming March agenda items via the city’s official online portal.