Out With the Old at City Hall
Big changes are in store for City hall
By STEVE LITZ
Updated 7:49 AM EST, Thu, Nov 5, 2009
On his Spanish language cable news show today, Tomas Regalado talked about becoming Miami's next mayor -- and how that included replacing the police chief.
"There is low morale. There are ethics issues... crime is up. We need a new strategy and leadership."
So, you want a new police chief, Tomas?
"Absolutely."
About 38,000 people took part in yesterday's mayoral election -- more than 70 percent voted for Regalado, and at his victory party last night, he promised change. He might have meant extreme makeover because Regalado has his sights set on some of the most powerful positions in the local government.
He told voters to expect less development in residential neighborhoods, with more of a focus on improving those neighborhoods and the quality of life there. Also look for more transparency in government. No secrets, he said.
Some might want to start looking for a new job. Along with Timoney, City Manager Pete Hernandez's future is also uncertain.
"I have not sat down with him to see his vision," Regalado stated. "His philosophy in terms of how he sees the government."
While Regalado looks to the future, outgoing mayor Manny Diaz considers his 8-year tenure productive.
He points to the building boom in Downtown, the new baseball stadium and a revamped image for the city.
Before he became mayor, he said Miami "was a laughing stock, people were throwing bananas at City Hall. That's not a reputation I want for me. Not the legacy I want for my parents. This was a targeted decision on my part to turn the city around in an 8-year period."
Eight years of Diaz giving way to at least four years of Regalado. The changeover happens next Wednesday.
First Published: Nov 4, 2009 5:24 PM EST
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