Judge dismisses Key Biscayne lawsuit against NMMA

MIAMI — A lawsuit against the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) that attempted to block the relocation of the organization’s Miami Boat Show was dismissed by a Florida judge on Dec. 3. The lawsuit alleged the NMMA violated Florida’s public record laws.

The village filed three lawsuits this year with intent to stop the Miami International Boat Show from being held at the Miami Marine Stadium, and the development of a park that will house show exhibits. Concerns of harmful impacts to residents and protected wildlife of Virginia Key, along with fear that the site will be used for large commercial events throughout the year, causing more traffic on Rickenbacker Causeway, have also been cited by the group.

In the suit, attorneys for the village argued the NMMA refused to turn over all documents related to the agreement between the city and the NMMA that would let the association use the area surrounding Marine Stadium for the 2016 boat show 

Judge Antonio Marin rejected the argument and granted the NMMA’s motion to dismiss, citing that the NMMA was not obligated to provide records because the association is not the city’s “agent” and thus not subject to Florida’s public record act. 

“We are pleased that the court agreed with the NMMA and dismissed the Village of Key Biscayne’s lawsuit,” NMMA President Thom Dammrich said in a prepared statement. “The court rejected each of the arguments advanced by the Village. The NMMA plans to continue its preparation and we look forward to celebrating the 2016 Miami International Boat Show at Miami Marine Stadium Park and Basin.”

The Miami International Boat Show is typically held at the Miami Beach Convention Center; however, a new show location is required as the convention center undergoes a two-year renovation. The show will be held Feb. 11-15, 2016 at Miami Marina Stadium Park and Basin with vessels on display on land and in the water. 

Work is currently underway on the Miami Marine Stadium Park and Basin.