On June 17 the Miami City Commission, after a contentious debate, gave initial approval to two ordinances that could reshape the city’s election calendar and impose new limits on time in office. Each measure passed on a 3–2 vote.
The first ordinance would place all future municipal elections on the same ballot as federal midterms. Supporters argue that shifting the date could boost turnout from roughly 15 percent to more than 60 percent, citing similar gains in other Florida cities. Critics say the change would extend current officeholders’ terms by an extra year, granting them an advantage they did not earn at the polls.
Vote: King, Pardo, and Rosado in favor; Carollo and Gabela opposed.
A companion measure would cap service at two four-year terms for commissioners and for the mayor. If the ordinance receives final approval, the question will appear on a special ballot in November.
Vote: Gabela, Rosado, and Pardo in favor; Carollo and King opposed.
Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier contends that altering election dates without a citywide referendum violates the state constitution, which assigns charter amendments to voters. Miami City Attorney George Wysong disputes that view, pointing to state statutes he says give municipalities authority to adjust their election schedules by ordinance.
June 26, 2025 – Final commission vote on both ordinances
November 2025 – Public referendum on term limits (if the commission approves ballot language)
Although the reforms attracted less public testimony than other agenda items that day, they have stirred debate among residents and officials. Proponents call the proposals a way to modernize local governance and reduce political entrenchment; opponents question the timing and the motives behind the changes.
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