A new year brings resolutions. In West Kendall, we’re still waiting for results
-Wilson Alvarez
Commissioner Anthony Rodriguez: A Slow Start
Commissioner Anthony Rodriguez began West Kendall’s January 2025 with optimistic talk. He mentioned “zoning reform and smart growth policies” rolling out in Q1 of 2025.
However, the only publicized action so far? Another traffic signal study on SW 120th Street, a corridor long plagued by congestion.
Residents also noticed his absence from local HOA meetings. Meanwhile, his social media showed him at multiple ribbon-cuttings—in Coral Way and Coral Gables, not West Kendall.
This disconnect continues to frustrate a district that already feels overlooked.
Learn more about Miami-Dade zoning initiatives.
Mayor Daniella Levine Cava: Countywide, but Distant
Mayor Daniella Levine Cava kicked off her 2025 agenda with a countywide tour discussing flood resilience and housing affordability—two critical issues for West Kendall January 2025.
Yet cities like Doral and Cutler Bay received specific allocations and stormwater plans. West Kendall was once again left out of targeted relief.
A small win: a new recycling pilot program will include 1,200 homes in West Kendall, starting in March.
Still, no update on incorporation discussions—leaving many residents frustrated.
Read the Mayor’s resilience strategy here.
West Kendall MAC: Reorganizing or Retreating?
The Municipal Advisory Committee (MAC) began January 2025 with a quiet shuffle. Several members stepped down, citing “incompatibility with county alignment.”
Activist Sofia Meza took a seat and promised to revive the incorporation feasibility study, but support from the chair was lacking.
No meeting agenda was published for the second half of the month. Transparency, once again, is in question.
What is incorporation? Miami-Dade explains.
Community Infrastructure: More Talk, Less Work
West Kendall’s January 2025 infrastructure update? Not promising.
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The traffic light at SW 167th Ave and 88th St is delayed until April—due to permitting issues.
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The Hammocks pedestrian overpass project hasn’t started, despite a high-profile groundbreaking last fall.
Officials cite “supply chain issues,” but locals feel excuses are wearing thin.
Traffic congestion rose 7.8% over last year, according to Waze and Google Maps data.
Track Miami-Dade transportation projects here.
Education & Public Services: The Bright Spot
Amid the political noise, one leader continues to shine. Luisa Santos, District 9 School Board Member, delivered real results for West Kendall January 2025:
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Smart boards funded for Kendall-based elementary schools
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Two live town halls hosted
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Free STEM workshops announced for local families
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Launch of a civics scholarship challenge for high school students
Her consistent engagement is setting the standard.
Visit the Miami-Dade School Board District 9 website.
Civic Controversy: Hammocks HOA Fallout Continues
The Hammocks HOA scandal has officially entered 2025. A civil lawsuit filed by homeowners will begin depositions by March.
Calls for HOA reform across the county are growing louder. But Commissioner Rodriguez has yet to issue a statement.
Background on the Hammocks HOA scandal.
January 2025 Wrap-Up
West Kendall January 2025 ends with plenty of promises, but minimal progress.
The district saw lofty goals and weak execution, with leadership still failing to connect with the community’s core needs.
One thing is certain: West Kendall isn’t waiting anymore. It’s watching—and keeping score.
