Request for Removal of the Brickell Neighborhood from the DDA Catchment Area

Dear City Leaders,

As President of the Brickell Homeowners Association and a proud resident of our vibrant neighborhood, I am writing to request that the City of Miami Commission remove the Brickell Neighborhood from the catchment area of the Downtown Development Authority (DDA).

Our residents are facing a condominium crisis, a camouflaged recession, and increasing taxes—taxation without representation—with no tangible quality-of-life services in return. How can any City Commissioner who claims fiscal responsibility not acknowledge and act upon this reality?

The DDA’s exorbitant salary expenditures are out of touch with the income levels of the vast majority of City of Miami residents. Brickell’s contribution to the city extends far beyond property value—it helps subsidize the city’s garbage collection and generates a significant portion of municipal revenue.

Yet, Brickell is fundamentally different from Downtown. The DDA’s original mission was to redevelop Downtown, not Brickell. Brickell does not require the same marketing or development efforts; it stands strong on its own.

This is a matter of fairness and social compromise. It’s time for equitable treatment and for our voices to be heard.

Regards,

Ernesto Cuesta