With Election Day approaching in Miami, much of the attention is on the mayoral race. But voters will also decide on four referenda that could change how the city governs and manages its business.
Referendum 1 asks whether a committee should review the city charter every 10 years and recommend updates. Proposed by newly elected City Commissioner Ralph Rosado, the measure aims to ensure the charter evolves alongside Miami’s growing population.
Referendum 2 would allow commissioners to sell city-owned property without voter approval in certain cases. Currently, any sale requires voter approval and at least three offers at fair market value. Under the proposed measure, non-waterfront properties could be sold with a four-fifths vote of the commission if fewer than three offers have been received. Waterfront property rules would remain unchanged. The proposal is supported by City Manager Art Noriega.
Referendum 3 asks voters whether a citizens’ redistricting committee should be established to advise on redrawing city voting districts every 10 years, following the U.S. Census. The measure comes after a legal dispute in which community groups accused the city of racially gerrymandering districts after the 2020 Census. The city settled and agreed to place the redistricting committee question on the ballot.
Referendum 4, put forward by Commissioner Damian Pardo, proposes limiting elected officials to two full terms in their lifetime. The goal is to prevent career politicians and reduce the influence of political dynasties.
Early voting is already underway, and polls close at 7 p.m. on Tuesday.
