In his first year as the Miami-Dade County Commissioner for District 6, Kevin Marino Cabrera has already begun making strides in community development, spotlighting essential areas such as housing and infrastructure. Inspired by an opportunity and a genuine desire to serve, Cabrera has embarked on a journey to bring impactful changes to one of the county’s most diverse districts.
«We have to ensure that our tax dollars are being utilized in the most effective way possible. It’s not just about cutting costs—it’s about making smart investments that will pay off in the long run,” said Commissioner Cabrera.
The diversity of District 6 is intrinsic to its charm, encompassing areas from southeast Hialeah to parts of Fontainebleau, the Gables, and includes the airport and the surrounding areas. Cabrera emphasizes the importance of leadership that resonates with the district’s uniqueness. A notable issue that transcends the different areas is the escalating housing crisis, insurance rates, and the related cost of living. For Cabrera, affordable and workforce housing emerges as a priority. Through initiatives aimed at investment in infrastructure, there’s a clear path to mitigating risks, aiming at a broader goal of affordable living costs, particularly concerning property insurance rates.
The Commissioner underscores the urgency to battle against the issues surrounding housing. Strategies encompass leveraging state, federal, and local dollars for significant drainage projects, seawall repairs, and expansions as part of broader infrastructure improvement objectives. Recognizing the plight of the workforce, including essential service providers such as firefighters and teachers, Cabrera discusses a vision where everyone has access to affordable living spaces within the community they serve.
Addressing the bureaucratic hurdles the community faces, especially in obtaining permits, Cabrera advocates for streamlined processes that encourage efficiency and foster a customer-service-oriented approach within governmental operations. His initiatives target simplifying the permitting process, promoting a unified system that negates redundancy, and encouraging swift action, demonstrating a commitment to making the government work more seamlessly for the people.
His leadership also exemplifies sensitivity towards the elderly population, advocating for policies that safeguard their interests. With initiatives aimed at providing relief against the rising cost of living, Cabrera’s policies display a compassionate approach, ensuring that the senior members of the community don’t find themselves overwhelmed by financial pressures. The Save Our Seniors Program, which he has helped expand, offers financial assistance and relief to seniors below a certain economic threshold.
Furthermore, Cabrera actively engages in legislation such as the PACE program, emphasizing transparency and informed decision-making. His relentless dedication is evident in his pursuit of policies that prioritize the well-being and informed consent of the community, particularly regarding financial agreements and commitments.
«Transparency in programs like PACE is non-negotiable. People should never be in a worse position because they weren’t given clear and upfront information,” he added.
Kevin Marino Cabrera’s first year as Commissioner paints a picture of a leader ardently working towards realizing a community where every member, from the workforce to older adults, feels supported and valued. His leadership reflects a thoughtful blend of innovation, empathy, and a robust action orientation, promising a transformative impact on Miami-Dade County’s District 6. With a clear vision and an unwavering commitment to his constituents, Cabrera’s journey in office promises impactful accomplishments in shaping a thriving community.
“Our goals are very simple: to continue to fight to keep taxes, fees, and the cost of living down for our residents while always looking for new ways to improve government efficiency and customer service,” said Commissioner Cabrera.
