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Note: The letter published by The Herald was edited. The following letter is the unedited version.

Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce
Omni international complex
1601 Biscayne Boulevard
Miami Florida 33132

April 1, 1999

Mr. Tom Fiedler, Editor
The Miami Herald
One Herald Plaza
Miami, FL 33132

Dear Mr. Fiedler:

We were very distressed to learn that one of our unique and historic landmarks, Stiltsville, is not eligible to be listed on the Heritage Register according to the recent ruling of the National Register of Historic Places. Of particular concern is their disregard for the State of Florida's Division of Historical Places 5-0 unanimous vote recommending Stiltsville for the Register followed by the State of Florida's support for the application. Stiltsville's uniqueness reflects a part of Miami and Florida's heritage and ambiance that no other city could offer.

The seven Stiltsville houses are all that remain of the original twenty-four. Mother Nature, not government, should determine the lifeline of Stiltsville. The houses cannot be rebuilt if destroyed by a natural disaster. With today's efforts to spend millions of dollars to preserve historic places such as the Miami Circle, it is incomprehensible that Stiltsville, a part of our history, could be demolished. Why can't Stiltsville, a historic landmark with no cost to taxpayers, be preserved?

The owners of Stiltsville have shared the beauty and solitude of Stiltsville with youth groups such as the Boy Scouts of America, community groups such as The South Florida Historical Society, church groups, environmental groups, as well as visiting dignitaries and guests to our community.

In closing, Stiltsville is too important to lose. We must protect those community assets that individually as well as collectively make Miami the truly magic city that it is.

Sincerely,

(Signature)
William O. Cullom
President

Cc: Alberto Ibarguen
Douglas C. Clifton