Coral Gables residents were left with unanswered questions Tuesday night after Commissioner Melissa Castro did not attend the City Commission meeting, citing travel to Tallahassee for a Florida League of Cities engagement. While outside obligations are not uncommon for elected officials, the absence has prompted renewed scrutiny over priorities, transparency, and whether residents received the representation they deserved.
Commission meetings are the primary public forum where residents weigh in on zoning, development, and city policy. In the past, when commissioners have been unable to attend in person, it has been standard practice to call in or participate remotely—particularly when controversial items are on the agenda. Castro did not appear by phone or Zoom.
Her stated reason for missing the meeting was participation in a League of Cities function in Tallahassee, where she serves as a city representative. That explanation, however, has drawn skepticism from some residents who question whether an auxiliary role should supersede a scheduled commission meeting…