Coral Gables Mayor Denies Caring About Miami New Times Coverage

Coral Gables Mayor Vince Lago spent nearly half an hour at Tuesday’s city commission meeting discussing Miami New Times, an alternative weekly he claimed “nobody cares about.”

Lago’s extended remarks came during the public meeting after the paper published critical coverage of his administration. The mayor denied being bothered by the publication’s reporting while dedicating significant time to addressing it.

“Nobody cares about New Times,” Lago said during the meeting, according to the paper’s report. He then proceeded to spend 30 minutes discussing the publication and its coverage.

The lengthy discussion highlights ongoing tensions between Coral Gables city leadership and local media outlets that cover municipal government. Lago’s response follows a pattern seen across South Florida cities where elected officials have publicly criticized news coverage while simultaneously amplifying the stories they claim to dismiss.

Coral Gables, known for its strict zoning codes and Mediterranean Revival architecture, has faced increased scrutiny over various policy decisions in recent years. The city’s relationship with media outlets has occasionally grown contentious when coverage challenges official narratives.

The mayor’s decision to address Miami New Times coverage at length during a public meeting raises questions about the use of official city time and resources to respond to media criticism. City commission meetings are typically reserved for official business, budget discussions, and policy matters affecting residents.

Lago did not immediately respond to requests for comment about why he chose to spend substantial meeting time discussing a publication he characterized as irrelevant.

Miami New Times, founded in 1987, covers politics, culture, and local government across Miami-Dade County. The alternative weekly has a history of investigative reporting on municipal issues and has won multiple awards for its coverage of South Florida politics.

The incident reflects broader debates about press freedom and government transparency in local politics. Elected officials across the region have increasingly used public forums to criticize media coverage, though few dedicate as much official meeting time to the practice.

Coral Gables operates under a commission-manager form of government, where the mayor serves as the presiding officer of the five-member commission. The city has a population of approximately 50,000 residents and maintains one of the highest property values per capita in Miami-Dade County.

Tuesday’s meeting agenda included routine city business, making the extended discussion about media coverage an unusual departure from typical proceedings. Commission meetings are broadcast live and archived for public viewing.

The mayor’s comments come as local governments across South Florida face increased public attention on transparency issues. Recent months have seen heightened scrutiny of municipal operations, spending decisions, and communication with residents.

Lago was first elected to the Coral Gables City Commission in 2017 and became mayor in 2021. His administration has focused on infrastructure improvements, historic preservation, and economic development initiatives.

City records show Tuesday’s meeting ran longer than typical sessions, partly due to the extended discussion about media coverage. The commission ultimately addressed its regular agenda items after the mayor concluded his remarks about Miami New Times.

The next Coral Gables City Commission meeting is scheduled for later this month, where officials are expected to discuss budget matters and upcoming infrastructure projects.