A new political majority now is firmly in control in Coral Gables City Hall. Mayor Vince Lago, joined by Vice Mayor Rhonda Anderson and Commissioner Richard Lara, now commands the critical third vote on a commission that had previously constrained much of his agenda. With that majority comes opportunity—but also accountability.

The difference is more than arithmetic. During the past two years, Lago struggled to enact proposals in the face of a 3–2 commission split. Now, with the ability to move legislation, allocate funding and steer policy, the mayor and his allies have entered a more difficult phase of governance. Campaigning is over. The majority must now govern.

One challenge of majority status is ownership. Every decision—every vote, every budget line, every investigation initiated or tabled—belongs to those in control. As we noted in a previous editorial, “Commission minority’s responsibility is to question”, those out of power retain an obligation to scrutinize, dissent and inform the public. By contrast, the majority bears the burden of results. It must make things work.

Mayor Lago, in recent meetings, has made frequent reference to what he has called the dark days of his previous term. This framing, repeated in nearly every meeting since April, invites comparison more than introspection. What matters now is what his commission majority does with its authority. If the past two years were marked by frustration and trauma for Lago, the next two will reveal whether the mayor and his allies can deliver on their vision.

That means more than rolling back the initiatives of their predecessors. It means building and explaining. The public expects more than action. They expect purpose —a sense that the decisions being made serve a broader strategy for the city’s future. Voters have granted this majority a mandate but not a blank check.

This is especially true when it comes to transparency and tone. If the commission seeks to restore public trust, it must avoid the temptation to govern in silos or surround itself with echo chambers. The city’s strength lies in its residents, who must be more than mere spectators but engaged participants. To that end, robust public discourse should be welcomed, not dismissed as inconvenient. The mayor’s repeated criticism of media outlets and civic voices undermines the kind of trust and collaboration that strong majorities require to lead effectively.

There is also the matter of consistency.

What was once considered overreach —such as launching city investigations into elected officials or pressing private entities to operate like public boards— now risks becoming routine. The majority should be mindful that inconsistency erodes credibility. Power may have changed hands, but standards must remain constant.

It is also worth noting that the pace of legislative activity has increased. In just a few months, the commission has reversed several key votes, proposed sweeping changes to election timing, and opened inquiries into nonprofit governance. The mayor’s allies have described these moves as necessary corrections. Residents may judge them differently. Either way, the pace and scope of these changes will invite scrutiny —and demands clarity.

Governing is difficult—especially in Coral Gables. The city faces complex decisions: managing growth while preserving character, ensuring financial sustainability, preparing for environmental risks, and maintaining top-tier public services. These challenges demand more than a third vote—they demand thoughtful, accountable leadership.

Commissioners Melissa Castro and Ariel Fernandez will no doubt continue to raise questions and cast dissenting votes, just as the prior minority once did. But the city’s direction will be shaped by those who hold the majority. Their choices—what they build, what they cut, what they prioritize—will define the next chapter of Coral Gables government.

This is a privilege. Having the votes to act brings the obligation to lead wisely and transparently. The residents of Coral Gables are watching not just for outcomes, but for integrity in how those outcomes are achieved.

Majorities shift. Records remain. Now, the record belongs Lago and company.