Moishe Mana Offered $5 Million for Old Courthouse
Developer submitted plans in September 2026 to convert the historic site into a cultural hub.
Updated on Oct. 8, 2026 in Commercial
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Developer Moishe Mana submitted a $5 million proposal in September 2026 to purchase and renovate the vacant Miami-Dade Courthouse. This move challenges a separate $35 million offer from Russell Galbut, who plans to build a 70-story residential tower at the 73 W. Flagler St. site.
Why it matters
The future of the iconic 1928 structure remains uncertain as the county weighs Mana's proposal against the $35 million minimum bid required for an auction. The final decision rests on negotiations with the Miami-Dade Mayor, determining whether the site becomes a historic cultural space or a new skyscraper.
Moishe Mana offered $5 million for the courthouse against a $35 million minimum bid, while projecting $30 million to $40 million in renovation costs. The building has been closed since 2021, and the outcome of the sale remains subject to negotiation with the Miami-Dade Mayor.
The players
Moishe Mana
Developer and owner of approximately 80 properties on Flagler Street who proposed a cultural hub at the old courthouse.
Russell Galbut
Developer who submitted a proposal to build a 70-story residential tower at the historic courthouse site.
The details
Moishe Mana seeks to bypass the standard auction process by submitting unsolicited plans to transform the building into an arts and fashion hub, citing the current structure as a liability. His proposal competes with Russell Galbut, who has proposed a 70-story residential tower that meets the county's $35 million target. The county must decide whether to proceed with an auction or negotiate a private deal for the property, which is located near Mana's other Flagler Street investments.
Timeline
The courthouse first opened in 1928.
The county closed the building in 2021.
A new justice center opened across the street in 2025.
Moishe Mana submitted his development plans in September 2026.
Beyond the 305
The courthouse sale follows the 2025 opening of the new Miami-Dade Justice Center, which rendered the 1928 building obsolete for official legal proceedings. The site's historic designation marks a departure from standard redevelopment, as any buyer must balance preservation with modern market demands.
The transition of this historic building will alter the landscape of Flagler Street and determine whether the area focuses on historic preservation or high-density residential growth. Residents should watch for upcoming public hearings where the Miami-Dade County government will evaluate the proposals.
The takeaway
The fate of the courthouse hangs on whether the county prioritizes a high-revenue auction or a private cultural development deal. Keep an eye on future Miami-Dade County commission agendas for updates on how officials intend to handle the building's historic designation and sale.
Further reading
You can follow the latest on the downtown property market in our Commercial section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Miami Herald.
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