Longtime County Administrator Pete Hernandez Looks To Strengthen Relationships As Miamis New City Manager

When Miami city commissioners unanimously voted July 13 to endorse Mayor Manny Diaz’ appointment of Pedro "Pete" Hernandez as city manager, the chamber at city hall was filled with warmly applauding Miami-Dade County and city officials.

The scene heralded what is likely to be a strengthening relationship between city and county – in contrast to the friction of the past, especially during Joe Arriola’s term as city manager before he resigned from the post earlier this month.

Cuban native Mr. Hernandez, 59, had worked in increasingly senior posts at Miami-Dade County for 33 years, most recently as deputy county manager, and brings wide experience, devotion to public service and a mild-mannered, consensus-building demeanor to his new job.

Mr. Hernandez was interviewed by Miami Today international editor Michael Hayes shortly after moving into his new office. This is an excerpt from the weekly profile article published in Miami Today. To read the entire article in full, order this issue or subscribe to the print edition of Miami Today. Advertisement