Melissa Tapanes Llahues Installed as President of BASF
Bercow Radell Fernandez Larkin & Tapanes Partner continues her leadership across the development sectors
Melissa Tapanes Llahues, an esteemed land use attorney and civic leader, has been officially installed as President of the Builders Association of South Florida (BASF), a key player in the region's development landscape.
Since 2020, Tapanes Llahues has been a named partner at Bercow Radell Fernandez Larkin & Tapanes, PLLC. In her professional capacity, she represents a diverse range of clients including major landowners, developers, institutional clients, and small business owners, assisting them in navigating complex approval processes across governmental levels.
Installation Ceremony Highlights
The inauguration ceremony took place at citizenM Miami Worldcenter and was attended by notable figures such as the Mayor of Miami-Dade, Daniella Levine Cava, who administered the oath. U.S. Congressman Carlos Gimenez also acknowledged her achievement in the Congressional Record, alongside Miami-Dade County Commissioner Eileen Higgins.
Tapanes Llahues expressed her dedication to the community, stating, "Throughout my career, one thing has always been clear: builders are doers. We don't just imagine communities — we create them. We lay the foundation for the American Dream." This sentiment underscores her commitment to the vital role that builders play in shaping society.
Commitment to Sustainable Development
BASF is known for advocating responsible growth, affordable housing, and sustainable development throughout the region. As Tapanes Llahues took the stage, she emphasized three key focus areas for her presidency: enhancing housing accessibility, fortifying public-private partnerships, and amplifying the inspiring narratives of builders who exemplify resilience and leadership.
Expertise and Contributions
Melissa's expertise encompasses a wide range of land-use matters such as zoning, site planning, development of regional impact, public-private partnerships, and historic preservation. She is not only a prominent lawyer but also plays a significant role on the Miami Downtown Development Authority's Board of Directors, where she chairs the Urbanism Committee. Additionally, she was elected Chair of the Miami 21 Report Ad Hoc Task Force, demonstrating her influential position within Miami's development framework.
Acknowledgments and Accomplishments
Her dedication to her profession has earned her numerous accolades over the years, including South Florida Business Journal's "40 Under 40" Award in 2017, Ford Motor Company's "Mujeres Legendarias" honor in 2021, and the Circle of Excellence Award from the Miami-Dade Bar Association in 2023. She has also consistently been recognized as a "Recommended Attorney" by The Legal 500 since 2017 and ranked highly by Chambers USA, illustrating her standing in the legal community.
Tapanes Llahues is a proud alumna of the University of Miami School of Law, graduating cum laude, and also holds a magna cum laude bachelor's degree from Florida International University. Her commitment to public service is evident; she began her journey when appointed by Governor Jeb Bush to the Postsecondary Education Planning Commission back in 1999.
Looking Forward
Addressing the challenges ahead, she acknowledged the pressing issues of affordability, climate change, mobility, and regulatory matters. "I believe in the power of this organization and the expertise of our members. If we work together as partners in progress, we can meet the moment," she confidently stated, signaling her vision for a collaborative future.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Melissa Tapanes Llahues?
Melissa Tapanes Llahues is a zoning and land use attorney and the newly appointed President of the Builders Association of South Florida.
What are BASF's main goals under Tapanes Llahues?
Her goals include promoting housing access, enhancing public-private partnerships, and sharing builder success stories.
Where was the installation ceremony held?
The installation ceremony took place at citizenM Miami Worldcenter.
What awards has Melissa Tapanes Llahues received?
She has received multiple accolades including the South Florida Business Journal's 40 Under 40 Award and the Miami-Dade Bar Association Circle of Excellence Award.
What is the focus of BASF?
BASF focuses on advocating for responsible growth, housing affordability, and sustainable development in South Florida.
