The race for the Coral Gables Commission Group III seat is gaining momentum as Claudia Miro officially announced her candidacy for the April 8, 2025 election. Miro, a seasoned public servant and dedicated Coral Gables resident, joins Tom Wells and Richard Lara in what is shaping up to be a highly competitive contest for the open seat vacated by Commissioner Kirk Menendez, who is running for Mayor.
The Group III race now includes candidates with diverse backgrounds, each bringing their unique experience and priorities to the campaign.
Tom Wells, who filed to run last month, continues to gain traction as a steady and experienced voice for Coral Gables residents. With more than 30 years in the city, Wells has built a reputation as a corporate attorney with a strong commitment to preserving the community’s character while ensuring responsible governance. His professional expertise and history of advocacy position him as a pragmatic choice for voters seeking a candidate with deep local roots and a focus on solutions.
Wells’ campaign is centered on transparency, fiscal responsibility, and enhancing residents’ quality of life. His leadership in local matters—such as advocating for Burger Bob’s and Fritz & Franz—demonstrates his commitment to preserving the institutions that make Coral Gables unique. Wells has also been vocal about the importance of balanced budgets, opposing tax cuts that could jeopardize essential services, and has championed recreational improvements like expanding pickleball courts to meet resident demand.
“I’ve spent decades serving this community and listening to what residents care about,” Wells stated. “As a Commissioner, I will work tirelessly to ensure Coral Gables continues to thrive as a place where families and businesses can prosper.”
Wells currently serves as Vice-Chair of the City’s Charter Review Committee, where his focus on governance reforms reflects his dedication to accountability and good management practices.
Claudia Miro’s entry into the race brings a fresh perspective rooted in sustainability and community engagement. With 30 years of public sector experience and over 20 years as a Coral Gables resident, Miro has earned recognition for her leadership on the City’s Planning and Zoning Board and her role as Vice President of Freebee, a micro-transit company.
Miro’s campaign focuses on expanding green spaces, protecting historic landmarks, and enhancing public safety. Her work with Freebee highlights her commitment to sustainable transportation solutions, advocating for eco-friendly initiatives that benefit both residents and the environment.
“Serving Coral Gables is not just a commitment—it’s who I am,” Miro said. “As Commissioner, I will listen to all sides, protect our community’s charm, and work to ensure our city thrives for generations to come.”
Miro’s platform emphasizes collaboration, transparency, and addressing residents’ concerns with care and respect. Her focus on environmental stewardship and thoughtful urban planning adds a vital dimension to the race.
Richard Lara, who declared his candidacy earlier last year, rounds out the race with a platform centered on restoring transparency and integrity to Commission decision-making. An attorney and Coral Gables native, Lara’s campaign initially gained momentum with strong fundraising and a message of reform. However, recent months have seen a decline in visibility, raising questions about his ability to maintain traction heading into the election season.
Despite these challenges, Lara continues to advocate for inclusive governance and has emphasized the need to address what he sees as patterns of improper decision-making on the Commission.
As the election approaches, Coral Gables voters will have the opportunity to weigh these diverse perspectives and decide the direction of the city’s future leadership.
For more information, visit the candidates’ campaign websites:
- Claudia Miro: VoteMiro4Gables.com
- Tom Wells: VoteTomWells.com
- Richard Lara: laraforcoralgables.com
Claudia did a great job on the Planning & Zoning Board and served as the common sense voice of residents. Little wonder she got booted. She knows the issues and seems honest. So far, I’m leaning towards her.
Anyone of the three will be better than the third Musketeer which we hope will not become the Mayor!
Vote for the one that will promise not to join the Musketeers!
We need civil government not a threesome dictatorship which is exactly how KFC has acted!!
It’s obvious by the size of the Wells’ photograph placed at the top and the negative comments about Lara who you disfavor in this race.