The longstanding tension between Miami Seaquarium and Miami-Dade County has progressed to mediation, with parties scheduled to meet Monday in an attempt to resolve their eviction dispute. This follows a previous ruling by a Miami-Dade judge who rejected the county's plea for eviction after the Seaquarium allegedly missed a rent payment deadline on the county-owned property, as reported by NBC Miami.
A judge has decided to mediate rather than evict The Dolphin Company, which runs the Seaquarium, despite claims of animal mistreatment and past violations. This follows a lawsuit from the county aimed at ending the company’s lease due to these issues. Although the company was told to leave by April 21, their lease was originally set to last until 2044. A new rent payment plan has been established, according to WSVN.
The Dolphin Company claims the legal action against them is unfounded and politically motivated. Their attorney, Hilton Napoleon, told WSVN, "Now, all of a sudden, you think that we’ve just become a derelict company where we don’t know how to take care of sea animals? That’s improbable." He argued that the real issue isn't animal welfare but the land's value.
The Seaquarium recently highlighted a USDA report from July 1 showing zero non-compliance issues, supporting their claims and commitment to animal care. Executive director Edwin Gonzalez stated, "This recognition underscores the outstanding work and dedication of our entire team to uphold the highest standards of care and operations." However, Mayor Daniella Levine Cava pointed to a "long and troubling history of violations" in her lease termination notice. The Seaquarium also noted its historical significance since 1955 and its global fame from the '60s TV series "Flipper," according to NBC Miami.
The outcome of the mediation is confidential under Florida law, and if an agreement is not reached, a trial is anticipated in 2025. The future of the Seaquarium remains uncertain, as this escalating legal dispute could significantly impact a Miami-Dade institution that has attracted both locals and tourists for nearly seven decades.
