Former Miami Commissioner Joe Carollo Claims Legacy Erased as Successor Reverses Key Projects
Recent administrative changes in Miami’s District 3 have sparked a debate over the legacy of former Commissioner Joe Carollo, with new leadership reversing several high-profile initiatives established during his tenure. Following the election of Commissioner Rolando Escalona, who defeated Carollo’s brother in a runoff, the district has seen a rapid shift in policy regarding local landmarks, parks, and development projects previously championed by the longtime politician.
The dispute centers on a series of decisions by the incoming administration to alter or pause projects closely associated with Carollo. Notable among these is the management transfer of the historic Tower Theater in Little Havana. Previously taken over by the city under Carollo’s direction in 2023, the theater’s operations are now being returned to Miami Dade College, which had managed the venue for two decades prior. Additionally, the new administration has moved to rename a city park situated on land acquired through eminent domain—a strategy Carollo had pushed for—and has paused development on two affordable housing projects he sponsored.
Further visual changes include the planned removal of outdoor gym equipment at Maurice Ferré Park. The installation of this equipment had been a point of contention between Carollo, who served as chairman of the Bayfront Park Management Trust, and downtown residents who argued the structures cluttered green space.
Carollo, whose political career in Miami spans nearly five decades, has publicly criticized these moves. In recent statements, he characterized the reversals as an attempt to “erase history,” comparing the actions to those of authoritarian regimes that scrub the records of past leaders. He argues that the projects now under scrutiny were intended to benefit the community and that their dismantling represents a political vendetta rather than sound governance.
Conversely, Commissioner Escalona maintains that the changes are necessary “course corrections” rather than personal attacks. The new commissioner has stated his focus is on addressing quality-of-life issues, such as street cleanliness and building maintenance, which he claims were neglected. Escalona disputes the characterization of his actions as erasing history, asserting that his administration is simply prioritizing different operational models and responding to constituent concerns regarding government efficiency and public space management.
The shift in District 3 comes against the backdrop of significant legal and financial challenges for Carollo. In 2023, a federal jury found him civilly liable for violating the First Amendment rights of two Little Havana businessmen, ordering a $63.5 million judgment. The plaintiffs in that case alleged that Carollo used city code enforcement and police to harass their businesses in retaliation for supporting his political opponent. While Carollo has denied wrongdoing and pursued appeals, the verdict and subsequent legal fees have remained a central topic in Miami City Hall discussions.
As the transition continues, the dismantling of these initiatives marks a distinct break from the previous administration’s style and priorities. Whether these changes will be viewed permanently as a necessary reset or a politically motivated erasure remains a subject of contention among Miami’s residents and political observers.
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