Despite a four-year term filled with controversy and consternation, Commissioner Ariel Fernandez’s last Coral Gables City Commission meeting on Oct. 27 provided a chance to leave on a positive note, with several political rivals offering their best wishes and Fernandez himself lauding the commission’s work despite differences among its members.
Vice Mayor Rhonda Anderson, one of Fernandez’s term-long adversaries, opened the way for the goodwill by requesting a point of personal privilege early in the meeting to recognize the departing commissioner. The city presented Fernandez with a ceramic replica of City Hall, and Anderson thanked him for his service and the sacrifices it demanded of him and his family.
Anderson also arranged to play a video recorded for the city’s centennial celebration in which Fernandez discussed his love for Coral Gables and what public service meant to him. Fernandez, who said he had never seen the video, became visibly emotional as he watched it and began reflecting on his tenure.
Commissioners offer thanks for his service
“Regardless of where we have stood on issues, and we’ve had some strong differences, we all understand that public service means time away from family, work and personal commitments,” Anderson said. “We thank you and your family for the sacrifices that come with serving our community.”
Commissioner Richard Lara also thanked Fernandez for his work and dedication, wishing him and his family happiness and success in his future endeavors. The expressions of appreciation focused largely on the personal sacrifices and time required by public service rather than specific initiatives Fernandez championed during his term.
Fernandez said he had not prepared remarks, but went on to thank city staff and his colleagues, reflecting on the ups and downs of working with each commissioner. He singled out Commissioner Melissa Castro, noting that the two had been elected together. Castro, who is seeking reelection on Nov. 3, did not offer remarks about Fernandez’s departure.
Fernandez also sought to make peace, at least publicly, with City Manager Peter Iglesias, whom he twice sought to remove from office in 2024. Since Iglesias returned, Fernandez said, the two had worked through their differences and found solutions.
“We have been able to work together to address the concerns of our residents,” Fernandez said, praising Iglesias for his responsiveness and professionalism.
Fernandez reserved particularly warm words for Mayor Vince Lago, despite their often-fractious relationship. Recalling their earlier days working together, including meetings at Lago’s dining room table before commission meetings, Fernandez acknowledged that the relationship had not been easy but praised the mayor’s commitment to Coral Gables.
“Nobody can ever take away the fact that you have a passion for Coral Gables and that you have a real love for this community,” Fernandez said. “Whether we’ve agreed on the issues or disagreed on the issues, Coral Gables has always been in the forefront of your mind.”
Lago remained silent during his colleagues’ initial tributes. Later, when Fernandez offered to help resolve an issue that came up at the meeting after his departure, the mayor appeared to respond sarcastically, saying he did not want to burden the commissioner. “You have enough on your plate. But listen, you’re a Superman,” Lago said, “you’ve been able to resolve so many things. I never put it past you.” Lago has repeatedly criticized Fernandez publicly over what he characterized as a lack of legislative proposals and accomplishments.
The mayor nevertheless closed the meeting on a conciliatory note. “Commissioner Fernandez, wishing you the very best. Godspeed and we’re always here,” Lago said.
A tumultuous tenure
Fernandez’s four years on the commission included a contentious effort to oust Iglesias, which contributed to uncertainty over the city manager position’s future (and opened a revolving door for the position); investigations into allegations involving his role in a phishing survey; and a public dispute with resident Gonzalo Sanabria in which Fernandez threatened legal action from the dais. The two recently reconciled, and Sanabria submitted a letter thanking Fernandez that was read at the meeting. Sanabria is currently a candidate for Fernandez’s seat.
Fernandez also accused Lago of Sunshine Law violations stemming from events before Fernandez was elected, allegations that received no public follow-up and have been left unanswered by either party as the commissioner departs.
Despite the divisions, Fernandez said the commission had accomplished things for the betterment of the city. Its members, he noted, would occupy only a small part of Coral Gables’ century-long history, but their work still mattered.
“The success of the commission, regardless of who sits up here, is the success of our city,” he said. “That’s the beauty of democracy.”
Fernandez thanked residents for the trust they placed in him when he was elected in April 2023 and said he looked forward to returning to life as a resident, promising to continue calling on his former colleagues when he had concerns of his own.
Author: Coral Gables Gazette News Staff
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