Juan Alfonso Fernandez-Barquin: Clerk of Court sets major goals as he also is county comptroller
Juan Alfonso Fernandez-Barquin was elected to the Florida House of Representatives in 2018 and served on several committees, including ethics; elections and open government; state affairs; energy; communications and cybersecurity; and justice appropriations. Early last month, Gov. Ron DeSantis appointed him clerk of the court and comptroller of Miami-Dade County.
The role of comptroller was historically designated to the clerk, but longtime Miami-Dade Clerk Harvey Ruvin ceded that role to the mayor, who would name a financial director for those duties. This was Ed Marquez, who now retires in August. Mr. Fernandez-Barquin said he is eager to work with Mayor Daniella Levine Cava’s office to assume that new title. In January 2025, he would be assuming control of the financial department.
As clerk of the county courts, Mr. Fernandez-Barquin aims to speed the process for individuals reinstating driver’s licenses, improve customer service, and install payment plans. He also said he plans to work to reduce property fraud.
“When this opportunity arose, I saw this as another fantastic opportunity to help people,” he said.
Mr. Fernandez-Barquin spoke with Miami Today reporter Monica Correa.
To read the full article and the rest of the Miami Today issue, subscribe to e-MIAMI TODAY, an exact replica of the printed edition.
Gladys
July 27, 2023 at 6:19 pm
The Governor has appointed an individual that may not be the best qualified to handle the job. Clerk of the Courts is not an appointed position, it is elected by the people, and as such this is an”interim” position…I pray from now till Election time, we can appoint the “Best Qualified” Candidate