Happy Women’s History Month, Miami-Dade! As Miami-Dade's first woman Mayor, I know firsthand that when we invest in women, we strengthen every aspect of our community. So as we close out Women’s History Month, I am excited to highlight a few of the incredible individuals I got to know over the past few weeks. Through community events, site visits, and even job shadowing – I got to celebrate all that these women contribute to our economy, our shared safety, and our incredible quality of life.
Watch my message
LEGISLATIVE UPDATE
Ideas & Innovation
Innovation can happen anywhere, and with the passage of the Miami-Dade Innovation Authority (MDIA), we’re making sure that it happens right here!
The MDIA is a nonprofit established in partnership with seed funding from the County, the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation and Citadel CEO Ken Griffin. It will provide grants to companies working to solve pressing local challenges in climate, health, housing, transit, and more. Companies will be invited to pilot new technologies with the County – fast-tracking ideas to key problems our community faces. A special thanks to our Board of County Commissioners who passed the milestone legislation approving the authority, and to Leigh-Ann Buchanan who is now serving as the President of the MDIA!
COMMUNITY CORNER
WOMEN'S HISTORY MONTH EDITION
This month, I met with 4 incredible women who are longtime leaders at Miami-Dade County. Each of them serves our almost 3 million residents with care, patience, and pride. Miami-Dade is stronger for their tireless work!
I met Ms. McClain from Miami International Airport and learned firsthand what it takes to keep airport traffic moving smoothly — I’m grateful for all she does to keep travelers safe!
Ms. Najarro, the Chief of Bus Operations for Department of Transportation and Public Works, keeps Miami-Dade transit running. In her role, she oversees dispatchers, bus traffic controllers, and transit operations supervisors. Happy Women’s Month to her and the entire bus operations team!
Ms. Hernandez serves as the first-ever woman Chief Plant Operator for the Water and Sewer Department! For 19 years, she's proudly served our community, managing our county water plant on Key Biscayne.
311 is one of the main ways we’re keeping Miami-Dade County government responsive – and that’s why I was so excited to meet Ms. Footman, our call center supervisor. During our visit, I was amazed to see just how many residents she’s supporting each day.
We hosted another Community Meet & Greet in honor of Women’s History Month. During these meetings, I introduce women in leadership positions throughout county government to our residents – bring county government closer to you, all while celebrating the incredible people who keep our county going.
IN CASE YOU MISSED IT
On January 25, 2023, I delivered my annual State of the County address where I outlined my vision for a safer and more prosperous Miami-Dade. Check out my full address below.
