An Amazing Opportunity for Civic Engagement

Published on January 02, 2023

By Jeniffer Viscarra, Vice Mayor

First and foremost, I want to wish all our residents a very happy and prosperous New Year. I am starting 2023 as the re-elected Commissioner for Seat 4, an accomplishment that is only possible with the support of the community, for which I am grateful. Thank you!

If you watched the December meeting, you are aware that the City Commission appointed a Charter Revision Commission (CRC) consisting of five persons including four from the Residential Areas from which the City Commissioners were elected and the Mayor’s appointment who may reside anywhere in the City. Congratulations to all appointees who were unanimously ratified by the City Commission. In addition, the Mayor may appoint one Commissioner serving their second consecutive term to serve as a non-voting CRC member. I am honored to have been chosen by my colleagues as that person.

The CRC shall commence its proceedings within 45 days after appointment by the Commission and shall have 120 days from the date of appointment to present their recommendations to the City Commission. The City Commission will then submit the recommendations to voters. In 2013, the CRC considered strengthening the proof of residency requirements for political candidates, the City Manager’s scope of authority over certain positions, and the requirement to use the services of Miami-Dade Fire Rescue Department. I look forward to hearing what the 2023 CRC brings forward. For voters, this will be a once-in-a-decade opportunity to shape what is, in essence, the city’s constitution. I hope you take the time to get informed and use your voice in this very important undertaking!

Contact Vice Mayor Jeniffer Viscarra at seat4@sibfl.net or 305.792.1750.