MIAMI-DADE COUNTY, Fla. – History was made Monday in Miami-Dade County as commissioners elected the county's first Haitian-American chairman.
Jean Monestime was recently re-elected commissioner, and unanimously won the chairmanship Monday after Commissioner Audrey Edmonson, seconded Monestime for chairman, even though she was nominated for the position as well.
In a statement released later in the afternoon, Miami-Dade County Mayor Carlos Gimenez said, "His election is further proof that Miami-Dade County is a multicultural, world class community that is committed to inclusion."
The position of chair on the commission is a very powerful one, as this is a person who sets the agenda for what comes before the board. Monestime was emotional as he spoke to his colleagues.
"(The position) which would allow me to work hard with you. So that this experience shows how we will allow our diversity to strengthen our community instead of divide us," said Monestime.
Monestime takes on his new role as chairman Jan. 1.
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