Grove Impact: Three Questions Featuring Miami’s New Mayor Eileen Higgins

Hosted by Luis Andre Gazitua

We’re launching Impact: Three Questions to feature persons of impact in Coconut Grove. These are leaders whose work shapes the Grove’s quality of life, its business environment, and the neighborhood experience that makes this community special. For our first installment, we’re honored to feature Mayor Eileen Higgins, the first woman elected Mayor of the City of Miami.

I’ve known Mayor Higgins since 2018, and I consider her one of the most impactful elected officials in the State of Florida. What sets her apart is competence built on a foundation of public administration and hands-on expertise in transportation and engineering. In my view, that combination makes her exceptionally effective at translating policy into practical, measurable results.

Mayor Higgins leads a results-driven administration focused on making Miami more affordable, more resilient, and more responsive to residents. Her priorities include accelerating housing delivery, modernizing infrastructure and mobility, strengthening neighborhood services, supporting small businesses, and improving how City Hall performs through transparency and measurable progress. Previously, she served seven years as the Miami-Dade County Commissioner for District 5, where she advanced affordable housing, expanded transportation access, supported small and minority-owned businesses, and championed environmental protection. Trained as an engineer and holding an MBA from Cornell University, she brings a problem-solving mindset to public service. She also served as a Peace Corps Country Director and as a U.S. diplomat before entering local government. As Mayor, she is committed to building a safer, more connected, and more livable Miami for every neighborhood, including Coconut Grove.

What is your oldest memory of Coconut Grove?

I loved visiting The Kampong, what a hidden gem in the heart of the Grove. Learning about David Fairchild and his adventures in botany and science took me all around the globe, but it all comes back to this treasured garden in our hometown. This beautiful garden reflects the lush landscape of Miami and the Grove, and when you step across the street, brunch is waiting at GreenStreet.

Where do you see the biggest opportunity for the Grove over the next 12 to 18 months?

I look forward to working with Commissioner Damian Pardo and the City administration to make the streets of Coconut Grove safer for pedestrians and cyclists, improve traffic flow, and strengthen the neighborhood experience in a way that supports small businesses without compromising quality of life. There is also tremendous opportunity in the West Grove, ensuring growth is shaped by the community, honors the Grove’s deep Bahamian roots, and creates real opportunity and housing affordability for longtime residents and local entrepreneurs.

What is your favorite thing to do in Coconut Grove?

Catching a sunset by the water is hard to beat. Joining friends and neighbors at the Coconut Grove Sailing Club, looking out over Biscayne Bay, and watching the day wind down is one of my favorite ways to enjoy Miami at its best.

About Luis Andre

Luis Andre Gazitua is a long-time Coconut Grove resident, advocate, investor, and board member of the Coconut Grove Business Improvement District. He works at the intersection of government, business, and public affairs, helping teams navigate complex processes and build practical partnerships that strengthen the region.

Coconut Grove Magazine Feature Luis Gazitua and Mayor Eileen Higgins