Commercial Real Estate Women Miami (CREW Miami) held a sold-out event titled “Unlocking Potential: Mastering Florida’s Live Local Act” on June 18, 2025, at the Mayfair House Hotel & Garden.
The event attracted a full audience keen to learn about the implications of the recent legislation, specifically SB1730, which is set to take effect on July 1, according to flsenate.gov.
This timely Lunch & Learn brought together a panel of esteemed industry leaders who provided their insights on how the new law is reshaping zoning, permitting, tax incentives, and housing development across South Florida.
Shannon Wilson, Associate Director at Berkadia and Programs Director for the 2025 CREW Miami Board, moderated the panel discussion featuring key speakers including Representative Vicki L. Lopez from Florida House District 113, Gus Cabrera, Principal at Evergreen Venture Group, Lissette Calderon, Founder and CEO of Neology Group, and Maritza Haro Salgado, Partner at Bercow Radell Fernandez Larkin & Tapanes.
One of the main themes discussed was zoning preemptions and development consistency.
The panel highlighted that the Live Local Act’s provisions are helping to streamline entitlements and reduce inconsistencies at the local level, particularly in Miami-Dade County, which has over 30 municipalities.
These changes are paving the way for new development opportunities on outdated commercial parcels and allowing for increased density where it was previously unfeasible.
The result is a more uniform set of land use rules that enable developers to advance their projects with greater confidence and attract private credit investments.
Another critical point raised in the discussion was the challenge of housing the “Missing Middle.”
Panelists emphasized the urgency of providing attainable housing for individuals who fall between affordable housing and luxury residential options, such as teachers, healthcare professionals, and recent college graduates.
The panel conveyed how the Live Local Act is making strides to address this pressing issue through incentives that render workforce housing feasible in urban locales.
In addition, the conversation turned toward financing and tax exemptions, as the updated law has brought about greater clarity regarding tax exemptions for workforce housing developments.
This development allows for a more dependable modeling of deals by developers.
However, attendees noted that discrepancies remain among counties in how they interpret exemption requirements, with some property appraisers moving quickly to adapt while others struggle with implementation timelines and verification processes.
Permitting delays and administrative approvals also posed significant challenges, as lengthened permit cycles were identified as a major bottleneck for development.
Panelists pointed out that many of these delays stem from outdated systems, vague feedback processes, and variances in interpretation of the law by municipal staff.
There was a consensus that time is as much of a hurdle to housing delivery as financial constraints.
The discussion further addressed parking requirements and transit connectivity, noting that SB1730 made slight adjustments to parking ratios near transit hubs.
However, many jurisdictions continue to apply outdated standards that undermine walkability.
The panelists agreed on the necessity of aligning housing policy with transportation infrastructure to foster livable and future-ready communities.
Education and advocacy emerged as vital components in moving forward.
The panel emphasized the need to educate stakeholders, including elected officials, lenders, developers, and the public, about the intentions and practical applications of the Live Local Act.
Misunderstandings regarding the law persist, with some communities resisting density, compounded by media portrayals that sometimes exaggerate its controversial nature.
Shannon Wilson closed the session by stressing the importance of collaboration, documentation of delays, and advocacy for future improvements.
“This is landmark legislation, and like any policy rollout, we’re learning in real time.
With each amendment, the process improves, but it’s essential that we collaborate, document delays, and advocate for what’s next,” she stated.
Josie Legido Correa, Director of Business Development at JWR Construction Services and 2025 President of CREW Miami, also shared her perspective.
“Our goal with programs like this is to ensure that CREW Miami members and the broader real estate community have access to accurate information, strong networks, and actionable insights.
We look forward to continuing this momentum through our upcoming Fireside Chat and signature Golf Tournament,” she remarked.
Looking ahead, CREW Miami has planned an End of Summer Social with CCIM and BOMA Miami Dade, scheduled for Thursday, August 21, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at American Social Miami, located at 690 SW 1st Ct, Miami, FL 33130.
This event will provide an opportunity for industry peers to connect over drinks and light bites in a relaxed environment aimed at fostering new relationships across commercial real estate sectors.
Sponsorship opportunities for the social are available.
Following this, a fireside chat featuring Ramola Motwani, Chairwoman of Merrimac Ventures and a 2024 Forbes “50 over 50” honoree, is set for Friday, September 5, 2025, from 8:30 AM to 10:30 AM at the Mayfair House Hotel & Garden.
Participants will have the chance to learn about her influential role in reshaping South Florida’s skyline through strategic development and her commitment to education via The Motwani Academy at Broward College.
This aligns closely with CREW’s mission to improve opportunities for women in commercial real estate.
The third major upcoming event is the 6th Annual CREW Miami Golf Tournament, slated for Friday, November 7, 2025, from 12:30 PM to 8:00 PM at Miami Shores Country Club.
This day-long event promises golf, networking, and camaraderie, all in support of CREW Miami’s Scholarship Fund, designated for women pursuing degrees in commercial real estate.
Early bird registration is already open until August 15, and inquiries regarding sponsorship opportunities and benefits are encouraged.
CREW Miami is committed to advancing women within the commercial real estate industry.
Through various programs such as CREW Careers and UCREW, they educate young women about career possibilities in the industry.
They support higher education and training in commercial real estate by providing scholarships and internships, as well as offering mentoring for individuals new to or seeking change within the industry.
In addition to monthly forums, CREW Miami fosters professional interaction and networking, creating a support network for professionals engaged in commercial real estate.
As part of a global organization boasting over 14,000 members and 80+ chapters and affiliates, CREW Miami provides its members with access to professionals across the industry worldwide.
For more information about activities and offerings, interested individuals can visit CREWMiami.org and follow @CREWMiami.
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