Latest news with #ManoloReyes
CBS News
3 days ago
- Business
- CBS News
Ralph Rosado wins District 4 special election, vows independent voice on Miami City Commission
A new face is joining the Miami City Commission. Urban planner Ralph Rosado has won the special election for Miami's District 4 seat, defeating Jose Regalado by a narrow margin to succeed the late Commissioner Manolo Reyes. Rosado captured 55% of the vote in a race decided by fewer than 600 ballots. A return to City Hall Rosado, who previously lost a 2017 bid for the same seat, celebrated the victory as a personal and political milestone. "This has been a long road, and I'm so excited to serve the community," he said at his election night party. He called the win "incredibly exciting" and thanked supporters who helped him return to City Hall. District 4 could play a pivotal role on the commission, often serving as a tiebreaker on contentious issues. Rosado was endorsed by District 3 Commissioner Joe Carollo, while Regalado, the son of Miami-Dade Property Appraiser Tomás Regalado and brother of County Commissioner Raquel Regalado, was backed by the Reyes family. Campaign clashes and future independence Despite his alignment with Carollo, Rosado pushed back on the idea that his decisions would be swayed. "I hope to be a voice of reason," he said. "I have deep respect for each of the members of the dais, and I'm looking forward to working with them. There are no sides to take." Carollo echoed Rosado's stance, saying, "Ralph Rosado is going to be an extremely independent commissioner." Raquel Regalado, who helped manage her brother's campaign, conceded graciously. "We couldn't have done more in this short amount of time—and again, so much money and so much influence. But we're proud of the campaign we ran. We didn't lie," she said. Rosado's priorities: Seniors, storm drainage and savings Looking ahead, Rosado said he plans to focus on tax relief and infrastructure. His first initiatives include proposing a plan to eliminate city property taxes for senior citizens and continuing drainage improvement projects initiated by Reyes. "We've got to look at the budget and figure out where there are ways we can save some money," Rosado said. "We've got to give folks as much tax relief as possible." As Miami continues to recover from recent severe weather, he said he's committed to finishing what his predecessor started.
Miami Herald
24-04-2025
- Politics
- Miami Herald
Miami will wait until after special election to vote on partnership with ICE
The city of Miami will wait until after a June special election before deciding whether to enter into an agreement with Immigration and Customs Enforcement that would deputize city police officers with immigration enforcement powers. On Thursday, the Miami City Commission was slated to vote on an item to authorize the city to enter into a 287(g) agreement, specifically under the 'task force' model. Under that model, some Miami Police Department officers would be allowed to conduct immigration enforcement functions during routine work, such as questioning, arresting and detaining people suspected of violating immigration law. But on Thursday morning, officials announced that the city was deferring the item to the meeting on June 12, which is the first City Commission meeting after a June 3 special election for District 4. The special election was called after the death of District 4 Commissioner Manolo Reyes earlier this month. City Attorney George Wysong told the Miami Herald on Thursday that city officials want to wait to vote on the item until after the election so that the new District 4 commissioner can weigh in. Wysong also noted that the city wanted to hold off on discussing the proposal until Miami Police Chief Manuel Morales, who is out of town, could be present. Whomever is elected will be tasked at their first commission meeting with casting a vote on a policy that could have a major impact in South Florida, with Miami being the largest city in Miami-Dade County and the second most populous in the state. Over half of the city's residents are foreign-born, and more than 70% are Hispanic or Latino, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. So far, two candidates have qualified for the June 3 special election: Ralph Rosado, who is an urban planner and was previously the manager of North Bay Village, and Jose Regalado, who worked as an assistant director in the city's Building Department up until Monday when he resigned. Regalado is the son of former Miami Mayor Tomás Regalado and brother of Miami-Dade County Commissioner Raquel Regalado. The candidate qualifying period closes at the end of the day Friday.
Miami Herald
22-04-2025
- Politics
- Miami Herald
Florida's latest push to increase affordable housing comes with risks for military bases
Proceed with caution Florida's push to expand affordable housing is commendable. However, the proposed legislation, including amendments to the Live Local Act and various agricultural/farm bills, risks unintended consequences by overriding local regulations without safeguards for our military installations. As these bills fast-track development approvals, they must include a clear protection clause for military airfields and training ranges, recognizing established safety zones. Incompatible development near bases threatens flight safety, training readiness and mission capability — jeopardizing national security and billions in economic impact. Public safety of the future residents it is meant to serve is also in jeopardy. Florida can lead in housing and defense. Legislators must amend these bills, coordinating with military planners to protect vital installations and airspace from encroachment. Let's build smart — without compromising the future of our military and residents. Admiral Mark Fitzgerald, USN (ret), naval aviator, former Florida Defense Support Task Force member, chairman, Association of Naval Aviation, Fleming Island, FL Reyes was family It is with a heavy heart that I say goodbye to Miami City Commissioner Manolo Reyes, who died on April 11. He was not only my boss but also a true father figure. His unwavering dedication to his family, friends, the City of Miami, the district he represented and the broader community has left an indelible mark that will be felt for generations to come. Beyond his public service, he played a profound role in my life. He mentored me, believed in me and always had my back — through every challenge and triumph. He didn't just treat me like a colleague; he welcomed me into his world like family. His guidance shaped who I am today and his trust in me gave me the strength to grow, professionally and personally. He was there for me in ways that went far beyond the workplace, offering wisdom, support and unconditional care. He was a man of great faith — a devoted husband, father, grandfather and friend. His love for his family was matched only by his love for Miami. He embodied the spirit of this great city in everything he did. His leadership, compassion and integrity served as a guiding light for us all. I am incredibly grateful to have had the privilege of working alongside him as his Chief of Staff — and to have him and his family become part of my own. He leaves behind a legacy of service, kindness and deep dedication to his family and community. He will be deeply missed, but his spirit and the lessons he shared will continue to inspire us all. Esteban (Steven) Ferreiro, Miami Housing struggle Re: the April 18 Miami Herald online story, 'Black South Floridians struggle to buy and keep homes in Miami's gentrifying communities.' There are certainly challenges for Black families in Miami's housing market, stiffer even than 25 years ago when my partner and I built two dozen single family homes for first-time homebuyers in West Grove. We learned a few things which are still true today. First, the goal must be to bring the total monthly payment down to the equivalent of rent in the area where the house is. Second, would-be homeowners 'self-select' by saving a three percent down payment and are required to do serious work — with counseling — to improve low credit scores. Third, private lenders are needed to supply 50% of the purchase price in a 30-year first mortgage at market rate interest. These loans are low-risk. Finally, the city and county must fund 'soft second' 30-year interest-only mortgages at zero to three percent for the balance of the purchase price. These can be funded partly from the 'public benefits' generated by new high-rise development, and the rest from Affordable Housing programs that now focus mostly on rental subsidies. While this alone won't solve the housing crisis, high-rise rental apartments do not stabilize neighborhoods and each new homeowner in a historic Black community helps to keep others from surrendering to gentrification. Anthony Parrish, Coconut Grove People's Pope I was greatly saddened of the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis. He will be remembered as one of the most consequential leaders of our time. For decades, he served the most vulnerable across Argentina and his mission of serving the poor never ceased. As Pope, he was a loving pastor and challenging teacher who reached out to different faiths. He commanded us to fight for peace and protect our planet from a climate crisis. He advocated for the voiceless and powerless. He made all feel welcome and seen by the Church. He promoted equity and an end to poverty and suffering across the globe. Above all, he was a Pope for everyone. He was the People's Pope — a light of faith, hope and love. Paul Bacon, Hallandale Beach 'This is America' As a teacher at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School during the 2018 mass shooting, I write with a heavy heart and an urgent plea. Last week, I watched Stephanie, one of my former students — now a graduate student teaching a class at Florida State University — speak on national television after surviving yet another school shooting. 'Here we are again,' she said. 'This is America.' Her words cut through the noise with painful truth. I am proud beyond words of how she protected her students. Twice, she's faced the unimaginable. Twice, she's shown strength and grace no young person should ever have to summon. This is not normal. This is not acceptable. Our students are not soldiers. Our schools are not battlegrounds. The continued failure to pass meaningful gun safety laws is a national disgrace. Our young people are paying the price. To Stephanie and to every student who has endured the trauma of a school shooting: you are not alone. We see you. We honor your pain and your resilience. Hope is our greatest resistance. Let it also be our call to action. Diane Wolk-Rogers, Coral Springs Shady charity Finally, some in the Florida Legislature are questioning Gov. Ron DeSantis' expenditures and those of his wife's charity, Hope Florida. While Hope Florida has lofty goals, disclosure that only five percent of its donations have gone to actual charities is a shocker. Nobody would donate to such a charity unless it is seeking something else; perhaps a pay to play? The disclosure that a $10 million settlement was directed to Hope Florida and then to DeSantis' campaign against the marijuana and anti-abortion amendments, although shocking, is not surprising. Taxpayers have been subsidizing DeSantis' follies for years. We've paid millions for his migrant flights from Texas, the Election Fraud division he created, and the State Guard, to mention a few. All of this while refusing Medicaid, food assistance and Kid Care to needy Floridians. Kudos to State House Speaker Daniel Perez and others in the legislature for finally growing a spine. It is about time. Norman Segall, Coral Gables Haitian corruption Re: Miami Herald reporter Jacqueline Charles' April 18 article, 'France forced Haiti to pay for independence. 200 years later, should there be restitution?' Haiti has received more than $20 billion in aid from the world in the past 60 years. Perhaps the reporter should investigate where all that money has gone before Haiti demands reparations from France. Look for all the billions the Duvalier family stole and the billions more stolen by all the corrupt governments after that. Mike Hernandez, Kendall Improper priorities Six innocent civilians are shot, two of whom are dead and all Gov. DeSantis had to say was that 'our prayers are with our FSU family.' Not to be outdone, President Trump, indifferent to the horror on FSU's campus, proclaimed his fidelity to the U.S. Constitution's Second Amendment (the only amendment he appears to respect), instead of the fate of the wounded and their families. David Kahn, Boca Raton Bad weather Once again, an active hurricane season is predicted, with an expected 17 named storms, including the possibility of nine hurricanes and four becoming major hurricanes. While I'm a proponent of storm preparation, the non-stop media coverage of approaching storms whips up a frenzied approach. I would call for all of South Florida to gather supplies early rather than freaking out and overrunning grocery stores at the last minute. This is one way to calm the anxiety in an already stressful situation. Chad van Horn, Fort Lauderdale
CBS News
16-04-2025
- Politics
- CBS News
Memorial services to pay tribute to Miami Commissioner Manolo Reyes
Memorial services on Wednesday will pay tribute to Miami Commissioner Manolo Reyes who passed away earlier this month at the age of 80. Following a morning visitation at Caballero Rivero Westchester, a funeral procession will head to Miami City Hall where there will be a memorial service at 10:30 a.m. to honor his seven years of dedicated public service as a member of the city's legislative body. Following the tribute, the funeral procession will go to St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Church, at 2987 W Flagler Street, where there will be a memorial mass at 12:30 p.m. Reyes, who represented District 4, was serving the second year of his current term when his health took a downturn, forcing him to miss several City Commission meetings. Despite these setbacks, he had recently announced plans to run for mayor in 2025, sharing his intention with supporters during his 80th birthday celebration at City Hall in May. Reyes, who had a lengthy battle with cancer and other medical challenges in recent years, died on April 11, according to his family. Reyes was born in 1944 in the Cuban town of Victoria de las Tunas. His father served as the town's mayor until the rise of Fidel Castro in 1959, prompting the Reyes family to flee to the U.S. In 1977, Manolo Reyes earned a degree in economics from the University of Florida, launching a public service career rooted in fiscal policy and community development. He worked as a budget analyst for the city of Miami and later for Miami-Dade County Public Schools. He also spent time in the classroom as a teacher at Westland Hialeah Senior High. Reyes first ran for office in 1985 and lost six consecutive elections before finally securing a seat in 2017 at the age of 73. In his final interview with the The Miami Herald , Reyes described holding public office as a calling rather than a career. "Power is given to you by the people to serve them, not yourself," he said.
Miami Herald
11-04-2025
- Politics
- Miami Herald
Reyes was a powerful voice for the people of Miami
On the Miami Herald Editorial Board, we learned firsthand of the influence and quiet charm of Miami Commissioner Manolo Reyes, who died Friday at 80. As part of our candidate interview process during endorsement season, we sometimes asked Miami commission candidates which sitting commissioner they would most like to emulate, if elected. Time after time, the answer was the same: 'Commissioner Reyes.' We grew to expect the response — Reyes, despite frequent turmoil on the dais, was a uniting force. When told of his popularity, Reyes was surprised. 'I'm very flattered,' he said humbly. That was Reyes — steady, low-key and approachable. He often sat quietly in his seat at the commission dais, representing Miami's District 4, watching as the more outspoken commissioners had their say. But when it came time for him to speak — or more importantly, to vote — Reyes let his principles speak louder than any raised voice. He was, famously at City Hall, the lone commissioner to vote against the controversial Miami land-for-soccer-stadium deal — not for politics, but because he believed it was the right thing to do. He didn't seek the spotlight. He sought what was best for the people of Miami, a much-too-rare goal in politics today. Back in the 1990s, Reyes was a well-known local politician frequently running for the Miami city commission. He lost six times. He left public life to teach, but returned to politics in 2017 and won his first commission spot at age 73. He was older, wiser and more determined than ever to serve his community. It was in his blood — his father, Ernesto, had been the mayor of the city of Victoria de Las Tunas in a pre-Castro Cuba. When he came in for his first candidate interview with the Board in years, he was a little nervous, but his sincerity shone through. 'I'm so glad I have a new chance to serve the people,' he told us in 2017. And he meant those words. 'I really missed it; I know now it's my true calling in life.' We endorsed him. But we had to reschedule his interview. He was a high school government and economics teacher at the time, and the appointment conflicted with class. 'I am a man of my word; I can't let my students down,' he said. Reyes was an old-school public servant. He shook every hand he could and never turned away from a conversation —whether it was with a voter, a city worker, or a reporter. Yes, he was a nice guy — in the most honorable sense of the phrase. He was proud to say he was just an economist at heart and that he still lived in the same Flagami home for some 50 years, where he raised his children with his wife, Selva. Reyes' roots in the Miami Cuban exile community were deep and personal; he was often present at anti-Castro demonstrations. But he never forgot that Miami, a place he loved dearly and served proudly, had become his second home. From pushing for the redevelopment of downtown Miami to reviving the Shenandoah pool to advocating for the hiring of an inspector general for the city, Reyes never stopped fighting for what he believed would make Miami a better place. Life threw him a curve ball. Just as he won his third term, he was diagnosed with leukemia. When we spoke, he sounded unshaken. 'I'm going to beat this; it's just a bump in the road,' he said. And for a while, it was. Ever the idealist, Reyes was embarrassed by the drama in city politics — and he wanted to change it. He began talking about running for mayor, even as he turned 80. But his cancer returned, dashing his dreams and, ultimately, claiming his life. Reyes leaves behind a legacy of integrity and service. In a city known for its clamor, he was a quiet constant — always thoughtful, always grounded, always for the people. Click here to send the letter.
