When communities come together to demand accountability, real change happens. That’s exactly what unfolded in Opa-locka, Florida, where a recent legal settlement under the Clean Water Act has not only improved water quality protections but will also bring meaningful health and environmental benefits to the community.
The Legal Challenge That Sparked Change
The case centered on an industrial property in Opa-locka that was not in compliance with required stormwater discharge permits. Industrial stormwater can carry harmful pollutants into local waterways, posing risks to both the environment and public health. Recognizing the stakes, the Everglades Law Center (ELC), in collaboration with the Super Law Group and the University of Miami School of Law’s Environmental Justice Clinic (EJC), filed a legal challenge on behalf of Miami Waterkeeper to address the violations.
A Settlement That Delivers More Than Compliance
The legal action achieved immediate results: the property secured necessary permit coverage in early 2024, ensuring regulatory oversight moving forward. But the real victory lies in the settlement agreement reached at the end of the year. This agreement mandates the implementation of best management practices to reduce polluted runoff. These measures will help safeguard Opa-locka’s water and the broader Biscayne Bay watershed.
Investing in Community Health and Environmental Justice
Perhaps the most inspiring part of this story is how the settlement funds will be used. The agreement allocates resources to support People’s Economic and Environmental Resiliency Group, Inc. (P.E.E.R. Group), a nonprofit community law firm, and Neighbors First, a resident-led community group. Together, they will lead a project to:
- Raise awareness about environmental justice and health disparities through educational initiatives.
- Host a community environmental health fair, offering health screenings in an inclusive, welcoming environment.
- Enhance a three-mile walking path in Opa-locka with new markers, plants, and lighting to promote healthy living.
Voices from the Frontlines
“Our law firm works at the intersection of economic, environmental, and social justice, and we are excited to collaborate with Neighbors First to create meaningful change in Opa-locka,” shared Theresa Pinto, Senior Staff Attorney and Policy Analyst at P.E.E.R. Group.
Amanda Prieto, Chief Operating Officer of Miami Waterkeeper, emphasized the broader impact: “This case underscores the power of legal action in safeguarding both environmental and public health. Ensuring compliance with water quality regulations is critical for protecting Biscayne Bay and the communities that depend on it,” said Amanda Prieto, Chief Operating Officer of Miami Waterkeeper.””
For Ben Wilkinson and Natalie Magill, student interns with the University of Miami School of Law EJC, the case offered invaluable real-world experience: “Partnering on this case provided us with invaluable, hands-on legal experience and deepened our understanding of community lawyering.”
A Model for Future Advocacy
This case demonstrates the power of legal advocacy paired with community action. By holding polluters accountable and ensuring that settlements directly benefit affected communities, we can create healthier, more resilient environments for all.
About Everglades Law Center
The Everglades Law Center is a nonprofit law firm focused on land use and sustainability, water and wetlands protection, endangered species and wildlife, and public lands protection. Our work is funded through grants and individual contributions, supporting our mission as legal advocates for Florida’s environment.