Support the VKOC Staff!

The Virginia Key Outdoor Center has been VERY vocal against the City of Miami's proposed homeless encampment on Vir ginia Key. On Friday (8/13), seven City of Miami Police Officers arrived at the Virginia Key Outdoor, citing several code violations and closed the Virginia Key Outdoor Center. On Twitter, at 10:30 pm on a Friday, the City made many confusing and vague statements claiming VKOC had been construed illegally, and they were owed $140k. The city never before claimed an amount, VKOC said.

The City of Miami terminated the Virginia Key Outdoor Center's lease on Sunday morning.

That's a lot of high-powered people to shut down a kayak rental shop loved by the community.

I am sure more will follow.

People's livelihoods have been jeopardized because a Commissioner has chosen to be vindictive to consti tuents that oppose his plan to develop this park into something else. If you've ever been to the Virginia Key Outdoor Center, you know how attentive and caring their staff is! These people genuinely love and care for the island and want everyone to appreciate its beauty. If you've never been to the Virginia Key Outdoor Center, take a moment and read their reviews online.

After speaking with the owner, Esther Alonso, she informed me that she would pay her employees for as long as possible. Esther is now entering a legal battle with the City of Miami as they try to ruin her for standing up for this public park. She is unsure how long she will be able to help her staff but has committed to at least two weeks while they pack up and move out.

I have created this GoFundMe to help the Staff make it past these difficult times. Things are tough out there. Let's help the VKOC staff get past this sad and unnecessary closure.