Board of Adjustment Board Meeting - 05/20/2026

The North Miami Board of Adjustment held a meeting on May 20, 2026, primarily to consider a variance request (V-2-26) for a check-cashing store operated by Amscot Corporation at 815 and 817 Northwest 119th Street. The variance sought to deviate from the city code requirement of maintaining a 1,500-foot separation between check-cashing stores and residential zoning districts. Staff recommended denial due to non-compliance with the minimum distance requirement, but the applicant emphasized the existing commercial nature of the site and the hardship posed by the separation rule. Public testimony included concerns about the predatory nature of check-cashing businesses and their impact on low-income residents. After discussion, the board unanimously approved the variance with conditions requiring the applicant to obtain a certificate of use and business tax receipt and submit building permits for interior renovations. The meeting also included procedural matters such as electing a new chair and vice chair, which were deferred to a future meeting.