Commissioners appoint Natalie Milian Orbis as District 6 Commissioner following Cabrera's vacancy

In a pivotal move during the Miami-Dade Board of County Commissioners meeting on May 6, 2025, Natalie Milian Orbis was appointed to fill the vacancy left by Ambassador Kevin Cabrera in District 6. The motion, put forth by Commissioner Gilbert and seconded by Commissioner Gonzales, sparked a lively discussion among board members.

Commissioner Higgins, a long-standing member of the commission, expressed his opposition to the appointment, citing a consistent preference for elections over appointments. "I will be consistent in voting against this item," he stated, emphasizing that his vote was not a reflection on Orbis's qualifications but rather on the process itself. He acknowledged Orbis's community-focused work and expressed excitement about her future contributions.

Commissioner Garcia echoed Higgins's sentiments, reinforcing that any dissenting votes were based on a belief in the electoral process rather than personal issues. Despite the opposition, the majority of commissioners supported the appointment, leading to a successful vote.

The board's decision underscores the importance of representation for District 6 residents, especially as the county faces significant upcoming challenges. Following the vote, Orbis was congratulated and reminded to complete necessary paperwork before officially joining the commission. This appointment marks a significant step in ensuring that the district continues to have a voice in local governance.