By: Victor J. Rosario – The Innovator and Resident of Your County. I am counting on your vote! November 7, 2028
Introduction: A New Era for CITT Funding
Miami-Dade County's future depends on bold, innovative thinking—and that includes how we fund our transportation infrastructure. For too long, we’ve relied on outdated, fractional funding models like the "half-penny" tax. This system was a temporary fix, but it’s no longer enough to meet the growing demands of our residents.
Even the Federal Reserve is phasing out the penny because it’s no longer economically viable. So why are we still relying on a "half-penny" model for our transportation trust? It's time to upgrade. Under my administration, we will replace these outdated fractions with a real investment—an investment in our community, our future, and our growth. It's time to start talking about real value, like a full dollar.
The Problem with "Penny Politics"
The half-penny model may have been suitable for a time of limited vision, but those days are long gone. As the cost of living and infrastructure needs continue to rise, a half-penny simply isn't enough. In fact, it's barely a drop in the bucket for the transformative changes we need.
The federal government recognizes the inefficiency of pennies, which is why they’ve been phased out from currency production. It's time for Miami-Dade to follow suit and stop relying on these tiny fractions that can't even keep up with the cost of modern infrastructure.
A Dollar Makes a Difference: Funding the Future
Under my leadership, we will introduce a one-dollar solution to fund the Citizen Independent Transportation Trust (CITT). Here’s how we’ll create a truly future-proof transportation system with substantial funding:
- eVTOLs (Electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing Aircraft): A dollar-driven funding model will allow us to make meaningful investments in cutting-edge technologies like eVTOLs. These innovations will revolutionize urban air mobility, reducing traffic congestion, increasing efficiency, and providing a modern solution to the county’s transportation needs.
- Electric Vehicle (EV) Infrastructure: Moving to a dollar model will enable us to invest in EV infrastructure, including charging stations. We’re not just looking to add more vehicles to the roads—we’re building an ecosystem that supports sustainability and attracts new technologies to Miami-Dade.
- Long-Term Stability: Moving to a one-dollar model means more funding to support ongoing projects. This is about creating a stable, reliable source of funding that will fuel Miami-Dade’s transportation system for decades to come. No more "half-pennies"—just full-dollar investments that ensure our county can thrive for generations.
What a Dollar Can Do: Bigger Projects, Bigger Impact
By moving to a dollar-based funding structure, we’ll have the resources to pursue larger, more ambitious projects, such as:
- Expansion of Transit Options: We’ll build out our metro, bus, and trolley systems, making it easier for residents to get around and reducing congestion.
- New Technology Integration: With a dollar’s worth of investment, we’ll be able to implement the latest in AI-powered traffic systems, enhancing efficiency and reducing delays across Miami-Dade.
- Sustainability Goals: Funding from a dollar model will allow us to prioritize green infrastructure, such as solar-powered charging stations and electric buses, supporting a clean and sustainable future for Miami-Dade.
The Real Value of a Dollar
A dollar isn’t just a higher number—it’s a symbol of commitment to Miami-Dade’s future. The half-penny model may have been a quick fix, but it's time for a bold, real investment in the infrastructure our county needs. Miami-Dade residents deserve more than small fractions—they deserve a system that works for them, that prioritizes long-term sustainability, and that builds the future, not just manages the present.
The future of transportation in Miami-Dade isn’t about pennies—it’s about dollars. It's about investing in what truly matters and making sure our county is ready for the future.
Conclusion: A Dollar for Miami-Dade’s Future
Under my administration, the era of the half-penny will be over. We will replace it with a real, impactful funding solution that will move Miami-Dade County forward—eVTOLs, expanded transit, enhanced infrastructure, and more. It’s time to leave the half-penny behind and step into a future where we’re investing in the growth and success of Miami-Dade County for generations to come.
Call to Action:
We can make this happen together. It’s time for a dollar-driven approach to transportation funding that will truly make an impact. Let’s stop settling for pennies and start building the future of Miami-Dade today. Join me in pushing for real, lasting change in how we fund our transportation infrastructure.
Sincerely,
Victor J. Rosario
The Innovator and Resident of Your County
#TeamVictor #InnovationForAll #YourCountyYourFuture
About Victor J. Rosario
Victor J. Rosario is the Residents-First candidate for Miami-Dade County Mayor 2028. A U.S. Coast Guard veteran, entrepreneur, technologist, and artist, Victor brings a track record of building real solutions — from AI tools to campaign policy — that serve Miami-Dade's 2.8 million residents.
Learn More About Victor