Miami Gardens council adopts 2026 legislative priorities after debate over extra lobbying authority

The City of Miami Gardens City Council on Nov. 12 adopted its 2026 legislative priorities after a lengthy discussion about whether the city manager should be authorized to hire additional lobbyists to pursue those priorities.

Vice Mayor Robert Stevens proposed language to give the city manager the authority to hire supplemental lobbying support when the administration determines it is necessary to advance priority projects. He framed the proposal as creating a "plan B" to move quickly during the fast-paced legislative session.

Several councilmembers pressed for accountability and for a clear "trigger" that would prompt hiring outside help. Council members asked that any additional spending be brought to the council for approval and suggested monthly reports on lobbying activity. City Attorney and City Manager told the dais that while the administration can hire consultants under existing procurement rules, lobbyists typically work directly for the council and additional contracting and funding for event-specific lobbying assistance would be brought to the council as needed.

Councilwoman Julian defended the approach as a way to amplify the city's case for infrastructure and other priority funding: "this is about making sure that we hit a home run for the residents of Miami Gardens," she said on the record. Other members warned that adding lobbyists without clear metrics risks spending taxpayer dollars without commensurate results.

Outcome: the council approved the resolution adopting the legislative priorities and directed staff to return with any companion language (or a separate resolution) to clarify how additional lobbying help would be procured and reported. The roll-call votes on the resolution recorded unanimous support (Baskin, Leon, Powell, Wilson, Julian, Vice Mayor Stevens and Mayor Harris).