Miami City Manager Resigns Amid 'Circus' Atmosphere

MIAMI, FL — Pointing to the circus-like atmosphere at city commission meetings, Miami City Manager Emilio T. Gonzalez on Thursday submitted his resignation.

The move follows a failed attempt to oust Gonzalez led by former mayor and current Miami Commissioner Joe Corollo in December and the abrupt adjournment of a city commission meeting on Jan. 9 over bickering among commissioners with Corollo again at the center.

Gonzalez, who is a former Army colonel and adviser to President George W. Bush, said his results should speak for themselves as city manager.

"Our bond ratings have been upgraded to the highest in city history. We have billions in investments and growth. Our crime rate is down to historic lows. Our millage rate is the lowest in recent memory. Our reserves are solid and our current operating budget is lower than last year's," Gonzalez said in his letter of resignation. "By any measure, we have been a successful administration. I could not be prouder of the men and women who've worked so hard to make this happen."

Gonzalez, who served in the position for two years, said the city has entered into a new era.

"Our city commission meetings have devolved into a circus," he said in the letter addressed to Mayor Francis Suarez. "Policy discussions have given way to the politics of personal destruction."

He said he plans to discuss the timing of his departure with the mayor and promised to assist in the transition.

"I leave this position with my reputation unscathed," he said in the letter. "I will put my lifelong record of achievement — from military service to the White House to City Hall — up for review any day. Those who know me, know that I am a man of honor, integrity, exceptional character and will continue to be so. Equally important, they know who and what my detractors are."

City spokesperson John Heffernan told Patch the mayor will nominate a replacement for Gonzalez which must then be approved by the Miami Commission. He said Gonzalez continues to serve for the time being.