The popular southern destination is now Brampton's sister city, after mayors of the two municipalities signed an historic sister city agreement earlier this month.

Brampton Mayor Susan Fennell and Miami Beach Mayor Matti Herrera Bower collaborated on the details of the agreement, which allows a more formal venue for the exchange of ideas on developing culture and stimulating economic growth.

"This agreement is very significant, as both cities have a great deal to share," said Fennell.

Fennell is particularly interested in Miami Beach's CANDO (Cultural Arts Neighborhood District Overlay) Arts Neighbourhood project, which works to brand, market and promote an arts neighbourhood and create affordable opportunities for arts-related initiatives.

Bower, who spent the first weekend of October touring Brampton, said the program has been a success in her city's efforts to resurrect the local arts movement and blend it with the municipality's other unique features- such as its historic art deco district.

"We needed to try to find a balance," she told The Guardian. "We have our historic district and we are trying to develop our heritage...and at the same time we are trying to bring the artists back into the area by giving them affordable options."

Fennell says this initiative will help council understand best practices in developing Brampton's own historic downtown core, as well as the Queen Street corridor.

"Miami Beach is a leader in built heritage preservation, the promotion of arts and culture and a rich multicultural city," she said.

Brampton is already sharing its vast talent with Miami Beach; earlier this year the Brampton Symphony Orchestra held an event there and will return again in 2009. The exchange of talent is an aspect of the partnership both municipalities say they would like to explore further.

Bower, who has been on Miami Beach's commission for eight years and was elected mayor in November 2007, says she will take many examples of Brampton's success back to her government.

Impressed with her visit of Brampton, and its World Health Organization's Safe Community designation, Communities in Bloom International title and the Safe City Association, she says there are many benchmarks of best practices here that will contribute to the future success of Miami Beach.

"This is an excellent opportunity for both cities to benchmark and exchange ideas," she said.

"Our municipal relationship will reach new heights as we further explore our community and economic development linkages and networks," agreed Fennell.

As well as the development of arts and economy, the two cities have a shared interest in improving transportation and trade infrastructure, as well as strengthening tourism.