HispanicBusiness

Miami commissioners on Thursday will consider creating a citywide bicycle-sharing program.

Advocates say the plan would promote physical fitness and reduce pollution, all while creating a modest source of revenue for the cash-strapped city. Riders would pay to rent the bikes for short time-frames.

The ordinance, which is set for a preliminary vote, would allow for advertisements on the rental racks and the bikes themselves. In April, an unrelated, broadly written proposal to allow advertising on city-owned fixtures, including fire hydrants and shade trees, ignited a firestorm of controversy. The legislation was shot down by city commissioners.

Bicycle-sharing programs have been successful in other South Florida municipalities, including Miami Beach and Surfside.

Commissioners will also begin the process of finding a new city clerk. The current clerk, Priscilla A. Thompson, is planning to retire in September.

The commission meeting starts at 9 a.m. at Miami City Hall, 3500 Pan American Dr.