Today we’d like to introduce you to Marilyn Ruano.
Marilyn, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I became a town activist through my involvement with my son’s school PTSA. Unacceptable levels of overcrowding at the school led me to reach out to town officials for help. I learned so much about the importance of local government the ineffectiveness of elected officials and the apathy of residents. Apathy is NOT my style so in true mommy fashion I took the bull by the horns and became very vocal. After a decade of activism, I realized that unless I ran for office I would never be heard I am now a councilwoman for two years and my sleepy little town has been full of excitement. Hurricanes, traffic congestion, budget constraints, and special projects have kept me busier than I ever thought I would be. The best part of my journey is as far as the creation and implementation of an “all inclusive” town model that makes programs and services accessible to ALL residents regardless of their abilities. The future is bright for the Town of Miami Lakes and I am honored to have had the opportunity to be a part of it.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
No road worth traveling is smooth… There have been many bumps along the way. Politics are controversial and the local government is not exempt.
We’d love to hear more about your work.
I serve as councilwoman for the Town of Miami Lakes. I’m known for my “no-nonsense” style. I keep it real and that’s very unusual in politics. I am most proud of the creation of a Special Needs Advisory Board that is in charge of servicing our special needs population.
How do you think the industry will change over the next decade?
Change is always one election away. Maintaining our small town feel is the challenge and we have been struggling with development and growth. As long as we stay on the track we are on, we’ll be ok. If we deviate our town may lose its charm forever.
Contact Info:
- Address: Town of Miami Lakes, 6601 Main Street, Miami Lakes, FL 33014
- Website: https://www.miamilakes-fl.gov
- Phone: 305.364.6100
- Email: ruanom@miamilakes-fl.gov
- Instagram: town_of_miami_lakes
- Facebook: Town of Miami Lakes- Municipal Government
- Twitter: @MiamiLakesNewsSuggest a story: VoyageMIA is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us knowhere.
