Jimmy Morales: Cites infrastructure gaps as businesses flood into county

When Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava offered Jimmy Morales the job of chief operations officer, he knew her vision would match his own, he recalls. The county’s need for resiliency infrastructure due to its own economic growth is a top priority, and he hopes to complete several transportation, sewer and water, housing and environmental infrastructure projects.

Mr. Morales served as county commissioner for eight years starting in 1996, overseeing a $7 billion budget. He was also chairman of the Budget and Finance committee and the Mayor’s Task Force on Efficiency and Competition, heading countywide initiatives and implementation of best practices and technology.

But much of his legacy working on groundbreaking projects was in Miami Beach.

As city manager, he completed critical infrastructure projects, including resiliency and stormwater management programs; redevelopment of the Miami Beach Convention Center; creation of the North Beach Community Redevelopment Agency; the $450 million general obligation bond for capital improvements; and 20 acres of new parks and green spaces.

“I love people and I certainly see the glass half full,” he said. “I learned from my father that the best way to live your life is by the golden rule, and that plays out in government. Equity is about treating people the way you’d like to be treated.”

Mr. Morales spoke with Miami Today reporter Monica Correa.

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