A Miami-Dade County judge has ruled Miami Commissioners are breaking the law by delaying November's election by a year without voter approval.
Judge Valerie Manno Schurr ruled the new city ordinance, with commissioners changing elections from odd to even years is unconstitutional.
City officials previously said they would appeal, if a decision went against them.
Ordinance sponsor Commissioner Damian Pardo released a statement to NBC6, "The city will appeal today’s judicial decision, and I will wait to comment once the matter is fully resolved."
Commissioners voted to move the election arguing it would increase voter turnout and save the city money. At the same time, it would give themselves and the mayor another year in office.
Former City Manager and current Miami mayoral candidate Emilio González filed the suit.
Fellow mayoral candidate, and current Miami-Dade County Commissioner Eileen Higgins says:
“Today’s court decision is a clear victory for democracy and for every Miami resident who believes elections should be decided by the people — not politicians. I’ve said from the start: moving elections must be done the right way, through a transparent process and with voter approval. With even-year elections chosen at the ballot box, I support reducing the next Mayor’s term by one year to align the election with 2028, maximizing participation and trust. Now, it’s time to get back to the business of fixing City Hall and building a government that actually works for our residents, families, and local businesses.”