Tomas Regalado: Property Appraiser working to give homeowners vital aid

Since taking on the role of Miami-Dade County property appraiser, Tomas Regalado said his focus has been on advocating for property owners, independence from bureaucracy, and increasing exemptions.

Mr. Regalado said he understands the economic challenges facing many in Miami and aims to provide affordable housing, advocate for senior citizens, and pave a sustainable future for Miami-Dade County and generations to come.

“Property fraud is a growing concern, threatening the security of your investment in Miami’s future. I am advocating and fighting against mortgage fraud, deed fraud, and homestead exemption fraud,” he said. “Miami-Dade County needed an appraiser who speaks for the people, free from external influence and political interests. I am that independent voice to ensure that the assessments of your properties are impartial and justly executed.”

From journalist to politician, Mr. Regalado began a prominent career in journalism working at various radio and television stations, including WFAB, WCKT, and WLTV. He gained international recognition as a correspondent covering events in Africa, Latin America, and the Middle East. His reporting took him to the White House, where he served as a member of the presidential press corps under presidents Reagan, Bush, and Clinton.

In 1996, wishing to serve his local community, Mr. Regaldo was elected to the Miami City Commission and subsequently reelected in 1999, 2003, and 2007. In 2009, he was elected as mayor of Miami, serving two consecutive terms. In 2018, he was appointed by President Donald Trump as the director of the Office of Cuba Broadcasting, bringing professional news and information programming to over 1 million Cuban adults each week.

Mr. Regalado’s family has a strong history of public service. His father was an attorney and journalist and was a political prisoner for 20 years. He instilled in the young Mr. Regalado a passion for justice and democracy. His children, Tomás Jr., Raquel, and José, have also continued the family legacy by pursuing careers in public service.

“As property appraiser, we will have an ongoing commitment to connect residents with critical resources by providing an accessible opportunity to engage directly with representatives from the Miami-Dade County departments and constitutional offices,” he said. “Everyone dreams of calling Miami home. But as living costs rise, so too must our efforts to maintain affordability. I am dedicated to implementing valuation strategies that align with the real market, to ensure you aren’t priced out of your neighborhood.”

Mr. Regalado spoke with Miami Today reporter Abraham Galvan. 

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