The Miami-Dade Board of County Commissioners held a special meeting on September 18, 2025, focused solely on discussions regarding fuel supply for PortMiami and its users. The meeting featured a single agenda item, which prompted public input from key stakeholders in the cruise industry and local community.

The session began with a public comment from Jason Liberty, CEO of Royal Caribbean Group, who emphasized the critical role of PortMiami as the "cruise capital of the world." Liberty highlighted the port's significant economic impact, noting that it generated over $10 billion in local economic activity last year and supported more than 45,000 jobs in Miami-Dade County. He stressed that the ability to bunker fuel safely at the port is essential for sustaining this growth and warned that any disruption to fuel supply could lead to fewer ship deployments and a decline in local businesses.

Liberty was joined by other cruise line executives, including representatives from Carnival Corporation and Norwegian Cruise Lines, who collectively urged the commission to safeguard the Fisher Island fuel facility. They argued that losing this facility would jeopardize not only the cruise industry but also the broader economic stability of the region.

Following Liberty's remarks, James Ferraro, chairman of the Fisher Island Community Association, expressed concerns about the potential dangers of keeping the fuel tanks near residential areas. He stated that the community supports the removal of the tanks and the development of the site for the benefit of local residents.

Joe Capote, representing 1,500 labor workers from the International Longshoremen's Association, also voiced strong support for maintaining the fuel facility at its current location. He warned that any changes could adversely affect jobs and economic activity tied to the cruise industry.

The meeting concluded with Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava requesting the board's authorization to acquire the fuel facility, either through negotiation or eminent domain, to ensure the continuity of operations at PortMiami. She reiterated the importance of fuel availability for the port's growth and competitiveness.

Overall, the meeting underscored the critical intersection of maritime operations, local economy, and community safety, with stakeholders advocating for a balanced approach to fuel supply management at PortMiami. The commission's next steps will be closely watched as they navigate the complexities of this vital issue.