Forging Our Future: The Southeast Overtown/Park West Community Journey

Embark on a journey with us, the Southeast Overtown/Park West Community Redevelopment Agency (SEOPW CRA). Uncover our mission and vision and meet the team that fuels these dreams. Discover how our story interweaves with the community we passionately serve and then come to understand the diverse initiatives in infrastructure, housing, jobs, and rental assistance we undertake to uplift our residents' lives.

Meet our board Meet our staff

Our Mission and Vision

Our Mission

Our mission at SEOPW CRA is to significantly enhance the living standards within our redevelopment area. We aim to foster an environment of growth by expanding the tax base, creating abundant job opportunities, encouraging dynamic economic growth, and nurturing safe, inviting neighborhoods. A significant part of our mission centers around making quality affordable housing easily accessible for our low and moderate-income residents.

Our Vision

At SEOPW CRA, we envision a flourishing Southeast Overtown/Park West community, free from blight and disinvestment. We dream of a safe, vibrant neighborhood where economic growth thrives, employment opportunities are plentiful, and quality housing is within everyone's reach.

Story

Progress in Motion, One Step at a Time.

An aerial view of the Historic Mt. Zion Church in Overtown, a timeless symbol of the community's heritage and spirituality, set amidst its urban surroundings

Since its establishment in 1982, the Southeast Overtown/Park West Community Redevelopment Agency (SEOPW CRA) has stood as a pillar against conditions of slum and blight in our community. Our journey is marked by numerous programs and initiatives designed to revitalize our community and uplift our residents' lives. From creating a range of job opportunities to providing much-needed rental assistance, we remain steadfastly guided by our mission to enhance life quality within our area.

SEOPW CRA Board

Christine King

Chairwoman

Damian Pardo

Vice chairman

Miguel Angel Gabela

Board Member

Rolando Escalona

Board Member

Ralph "Rafael" Rosado

Board Member

SEOPW CRA Divisions

Executive Office

James D. McQueen, J.D.

Executive Director

JMcQueen@miamigov.com

Percilla Kelsey

Executive Assistant to the Executive Director

PKelsey@miamigov.com

Division of Architecture & Development

The Division of Architecture & Development leads the physical implementation of the CRA Redevelopment Plan through construction-focused redevelopment strategies. The division manages a portfolio that includes CRA-led development projects, public-private partnerships with housing and mixed-use developers, property improvement grants for landowners, beautification initiatives, and support for commercial build-outs that activate vacant spaces. The division also oversees the acquisition of property to support redevelopment efforts and the upkeep of CRA-owned assets. Through architectural oversight and development coordination, the division advances neighborhood revitalization, eliminating slum and blight consistent with Chapter 163, Florida Statutes.

Brian Zeltsman, RA

Director of Architecture & Development

BZeltsman@miamigov.com

Andrea Smith

Assistant to the Director of Architecture & Development

ASmith@miamigov.com

Danyel Rolle, M. Arch

Project Coordinator (Development)

drolle@miamigov.com

Donald Hutchinson

Field Operations Coordinator

DoHutchinson@miamigov.com

Fred McNair

General Maintenance Worker (opac)

FMcNair@miamigov.com

Division of Strategic Initiatives and Community Partnerships

The Division of Strategic Initiatives and Community Partnerships supports implementation of the CRA Redevelopment Plan pursuant to Chapter 163, Florida Statutes, through strategic redevelopment initiatives, community engagement, cultural programs, housing assistance, corridor revitalization, and partnerships with public and private stakeholders. This division may also administer and manage community benefit programs in alignment with development agreements and other redevelopment initiatives.

For media inquiries, community partnerships, or initiatives, please email cra@miamigov.com.

Natalya Sangster, MPA, FRA-RA

Director of Operations

NaSangster@miamigov.com

Antoine Romulus, FRA-RP

Project Manager, community development

aromulus@miamigov.com

Maya Jackson

Community Engagement Coordinator (OPAC)

MayaJackson@miamigov.com

Jesille Peters

Facility maintenance coordinator (opac)

JPeters@miamigov.com

Idalia Rosa

Custodian

cra@miamigov.com

Division of Finance & Administration

The Division of Finance & Administration manages the financial and administrative operations of the SEOPW CRA, including budget development, financial reporting, accounting, payroll, and human resources. The division oversees all agency revenues and expenditures, administers grants, and ensures fiscal accountability and compliance with applicable laws and policies in support of the CRA Redevelopment Plan.

Miguel Valentin, CPA

Finance Officer

MAValentin@miamigov.com

Stephanie Manrique

Assistant Finance Officer

SManrique@miamigov.com

Mark Stallworth, FRA-RP

Program Manager (grants)

mstallworth@miamigov.com

Division of Legal & Compliance

The Division of Legal & Compliance provides legal counsel and oversight for all SEOPW CRA operations, including contracts, resolutions, legislation, real estate matters, agenda preparation, and regulatory compliance. The division ensures the Agency’s activities are conducted in accordance with applicable federal, state chapter 163 statutes, and local laws in support of the SEOPW CRA Redevelopment Plan.

Vincent T. Brown, Esq.

Deputy Director/general Counsel

VtBrown@miamigov.com

Antonette English

Administrative AssistanT

AEnglish@miamigov.com

Brandon Thomas, J.D./MBA, FRA-RP

Paralegal

bthomas@miamigov.com

Subdivision of Legal Division: Overtown Business Resource Center

The Overtown Business Resource Center, a subdivision reporting to the General Counsel, provides office space and technical assistance, as well as various workshops and training. The center offers public computers, free Wi-Fi, and business advice and assistance for residents. The center also provides employment screening, placement, and referrals for those seeking full- or part-time employment.

David Chiverton

AdministratoR

DChiverton@miamigov.com

Shameeka Cheeks

Administrative Assistant

SCheeks@miamigov.com

Breannie Bush

Code Enforcement Coordinator

BBush@miamigov.com

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Experience Overtown as it transforms into a vibrant, progressive community. From upgraded infrastructure and improved façades to thriving businesses and vibrant community spaces, new energy is redefining Overtown.

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