Miami Community Newspapers supports Nestor Menendez’s involvement in the future of Coral Gables and his stated focus on moving the city forward.

Menendez is a longtime Coral Gables resident, attorney and father who has served the community through several city advisory boards, including the Planning and Zoning Board, Charter Review Committee and Transportation Advisory Board. His public platform has emphasized civility at City Hall, responsible growth, neighborhood safety, communication with residents and protecting the character of Coral Gables.

At a time when there has been considerable disagreement inside City Hall, Menendez has talked about the importance of bringing people together and concentrating on the issues that affect residents. The challenge for Coral Gables is not simply winning political arguments. It is making sure the city continues to address growth, traffic, public safety, infrastructure, development and the quality of life of the people who live here.

The city needs elected officials who are willing to work, listen and focus on the business of governing. Menendez’s experience on city boards has given him an opportunity to see how these issues affect Coral Gables from inside the city’s governmental process.

The next chapter for Coral Gables should be about moving forward, having disagreements without turning them into personal battles, and keeping the interests of residents at the center of the discussion.