Board shrinks Miami church's historic zone

The Miami Historic and Environmental Preservation Board voted 6-1 on Thursday to reduce the historic designation of First Presbyterian Church at 609 Brickell Ave. The decision reclassifies the church’s school annex and parking lot as non-contributing elements. Board Member Emilio Bustillo was the sole dissenter.

The land now outside the protected boundary is designated for 619 Brickell, a 75-story tower planned by 13th Floor Investments and Key International. The church, represented by land-use attorney Iris Escarra, requested the boundary change to focus protection on the main structure. Architect Richard Heisenbottle testified that the new boundary encompasses only the church building and the Flagler Memorial Chapel inside it.

The IconBrickell Condominium No. Two Association opposed the move. The group argued that the annex is part of a unified design and that the site remains a single platted lot. Ryan Abrams, legal counsel for the association, called the proposed development a monstrosity next to a landmark. The Board granted the association intervenor status by a 7-0 vote before considering the amendment. This step followed a court order reversing an earlier denial of the group's request to intervene.

City staff recommended approval with conditions. A preservation officer clarified that the church is not listed in the National Register of Historic Places, despite common descriptions to the contrary. The building appears in the 1988 survey for the Downtown Miami Multiple Resource Area nomination, but it is absent from the register’s specific roster of Miami properties. One condition requires a report documenting the building’s history. Another requires the Board to review any future plan changes under Chapter 23 standards.

Public comment divided the room. Opponents cited city code language and concerns about trees, urging the Board to keep the 2003 boundary. Elvis Cruz, a public commenter, stated that the application is a detour around the Board's authority. Supporters, including church member Megan McLaughlin, emphasized the preservation of the sanctuary. The church’s pastor noted that the congregation cares more about the building than anyone else in the room. One Board member acknowledged the panel's general reluctance to redraw property lines, noting that members are loath to accept changes of even one square meter.