The tower got the green light from the Miami electorate last year. However, this decision was arguably influenced by the idea that the project did not require any public subsidy. It has now emerged that Jeffrey Berkowitz, the developer, wants $9m of public resources to be spent on improving the local infrastructure.
Despite a lawsuit being issued, Berkowitz is adamant that the building work will go forward and preliminary activity has already commenced. If the tower is constructed, the developer could use printing services in Doral for promotional purposes.
Berkowitz has said:
“The question is, why shouldn't we take advantage of an existing program that has been approved by the voters to encourage investment and create jobs? The answer is: we believe we qualify.”
The lawsuit has been entered into by two influential Miami citizens. Raquel Regalado is a mayoral candidate for the county who is running for office next year. Her financial backer, Norman Braman, is a car dealer who is also a billionaire.
However, Berkowitz is confident that the proposals are positive for Miami. He has argued that an iconic development would be a powerful tourist draw. Supporters of his vision like Carlos Gimenez, the current county mayor, have asserted that the project should create plenty of permanent employment.