A Defining Year for Miami—and for Our Community

As we close out the year, one thing is clear: civic engagement in Miami is growing, and our community is showing up in meaningful ways.

The most significant milestone of the year is the swearing-in of Eileen Higgins as Mayor of the City of Miami. Her election marks a new chapter for the city—one shaped by a competitive race, heightened public interest, and a renewed sense of responsibility among voters.

But beyond the headlines, the data tells an even more compelling story—especially here in our Biscayne Neighborhoods Association (BNA) territory.

A Powerful Increase in Local Participation

Comparing the City of Miami elections in 2021 and 2025, the numbers reveal a clear upward trend in civic participation:

• BNA Territory Votes
  
  • 2021: 1,111 votes
  • 2025: 1,882 votes
  • Increase: 69.4%

This nearly 70% increase in votes within our territory is a powerful indicator that residents are more informed, more engaged, and more motivated to participate in shaping the future of our city.

This growth doesn’t happen by accident. It reflects years of community outreach, conversations, forums, newsletters, and advocacy efforts aimed at helping residents understand not just when to vote—but why it matters.

Citywide Turnout Tells the Same Story

The trend extends well beyond our neighborhood.

• City of Miami Voter Turnout
  
  • 2021: 27,330 voters
  • 2025: 37,261 voters
  • Increase: 36%

A 36% citywide increase in turnout is significant by any standard. It signals a broader re-engagement with local government and municipal leadership—proof that Miami residents are paying attention to the decisions that directly affect their neighborhoods, infrastructure, housing, resilience, and quality of life.

What This Means Going Forward

These numbers reinforce something BNA has always believed:

an informed community is a powerful community.

Higher turnout means:

• Greater accountability from elected officials
• Stronger advocacy for neighborhood priorities
• More influence over policies that shape daily life

As a community organization representing thousands of residents across Edgewater and surrounding neighborhoods, BNA sees this growth as both a success and a responsibility. Our role moving forward is to continue fostering transparency, encouraging participation, and creating spaces where residents can stay informed and engaged—well beyond election season.

Looking Ahead

With new leadership at City Hall and a demonstrably more engaged electorate, Miami enters the coming year with momentum. BNA looks forward to working collaboratively with city leadership, commissioners, and community members to ensure that this momentum translates into thoughtful policy, smart growth, and a stronger sense of civic trust.

This year in review isn’t just about numbers—it’s about people choosing to show up.

And that makes all the difference.