Update: 4/19 3:58 p.m.

Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava and Commissioner Raquel Regalado have released a joint statement:

"Miami-Dade County had informed The Dolphin Company of the termination of their lease at the Seaquarium with a deadline to vacate by April 21st, 2024. The County continues to believe that the grounds to terminate the lease are still present in order to ensure the safety and wellbeing of the animals currently under their care.

As we approach this deadline, it is our hope that the Dolphin Company is taking the necessary steps to vacate the premises, and to ensure that the transition is done in a safe and orderly manner, especially for the animals under their care. But if they fail to do so, we will move forward with the eviction process.

We are currently reviewing the complaint filed by The Dolphin Company today.”

_____

The embattled Miami Seaquarium facing lease termination this weekend has filed a federal lawsuit against Miami-Dade County.

According to a news release, The Dolphin Company, which owns the Seaquarium, says the federal suit will address grievances such as unfair regulatory practices, breach of agreement, economic damages and reputational harm.

The complaint also outlines how restrictive zoning and land use policies have "been discriminatorily applied against the Seaquarium, unfairly limiting our efforts for improvement and growth."

The Key Biscayne attraction faces criticism for conditions of the park and care of its animals following USDA inspections.

The Seaquarium was due to vacate this Sunday, but the newly filed federal lawsuit may delay the lease termination.

Miami-Dade County hasn't responded yet.

Theresa