Commission agrees to waive permit fee and conditionally cosponsor youth 'Kick It Forward' event

Yadira Diaz, founder of the Miami‑based startup Gradable, asked the commission to cosponsor "Kick It Forward," a free youth soccer and sustainability event proposed for Oct. 22 at the Afa fields. Diaz said partners include university sustainability programs and that the event would be zero‑waste with eco‑booths and soccer clinics for 60 registered children and additional community attendees. "We're asking the village to cosponsor Kick It Forward — that means the special event permit, a letter of support, and on security, potentially support for off‑duty officers for a few hours of the event," she said.

Commissioners supported waiving the $250 permit fee and asked organizers to cap RSVPs, prioritize village children for available slots, and work with staff on parking and policing logistics. The commission stressed the event must be run in coordination with the Afa/operator and the school district and asked staff to resolve contract and parking issues at an internal meeting scheduled for the next day. The village asked organizers to return details to the manager and community engagement director for final sign‑off.