|
Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...
|
When I asked for your support during the recent Coral Gables election, I made a commitment to put residents first, restore trust in our local government, and deliver real results. I ran on specific promises rooted in transparency, accountability, and common sense. And today, almost 60 days into this new term, I’m proud to report: we’re keeping those promises.
First, I pledged to undo the outrageous and unethical 101% salary increase that the previous commission voted to give itself. That kind of self-dealing had no place in our city, and the moment I was given the opportunity, I worked with Vice Mayor Rhonda Anderson and Commissioner Richard Lara to reverse it. Public service should be about serving the people—not enriching oneself at their expense.
Second, I promised to move Coral Gables elections to November to boost voter participation and save taxpayer dollars. In past elections, less than 20% of registered voters participated. By aligning our elections with the general cycle, we’ll empower more residents to have a voice while saving nearly $200,000 each election. The legislation to make this change was approved by the Commission and the change is already underway.
Third, I committed to putting the question of creating an independent Inspector General before the voters to a public referendum. Again, with the support of Vice Mayor Anderson and Commissioner Lara, this important question will be in front of Coral Gables voters during the November 2026 election. This office would bring a new layer of accountability to city government—watching out for fraud, waste, and abuse. Letting the people decide this critical issue is not only the right thing to do—it’s the democratic thing to do.
Beyond these key promises, I also pledged to restore civility and respect to our Commission meetings. I’m proud to say that we’ve brought order and dignity back to the dais by following the same public comment guidelines used by Miami-Dade County and many other municipalities. Everyone deserves to be heard—but no one deserves to be shouted down or intimidated.
This is just the beginning. There’s much more work ahead: on traffic and safety, sustainability, fiscal responsibility, and quality of life. But I believe the tone has been set. Coral Gables is back on track—and we’re doing what we said we’d do.
As your mayor, I’ll continue to lead with integrity, put residents first, and work every day to earn your trust. Because in Coral Gables, promises still matter—and keeping them is how we move forward.
