Ignacio Vazquez Jr.: Executive director adding ethics commission transparency

At the start of September, Ignacio Vazquez Jr. stepped into his new role as executive director for the Miami-Dade County Commission on Ethics and Public Trust. Created in 1996 after citizens voted to amend the county charter, the Ethics Commission is an independent agency tasked with promoting and upholding public trust in government. 

Its mission extends across three primary areas: providing education and training on ethics codes, advice-giving and responding to requests for ethics opinions, and enforcing the rules and ordinances under its jurisdiction. These rules apply to elected officials, employees and advisory board members in Miami-Dade government and all municipalities within the county. 

Mr. Vazquez’s journey in law began in Miami, where his early life influenced his path. Witnessing his family’s experiences with oppressive regimes and his father’s work in local law enforcement firsthand, he developed a strong commitment to justice. 

He embarked on his legal career specializing in maritime law before going to work within the State and US Attorney’s offices. There, Mr. Vazquez honed his expertise in combating large-scale criminal enterprises and corruption, developing keen understanding of the complexities of legal systems and public accountability.

At the helm of the Ethics Commission, Mr. Vazquez is working to steer the agency toward a more transparent and accountable future. His legal background, combined with his passion for justice, positions him to promote integrity in local governance. His vision for the commission centers on fostering a culture of transparency, fairness, and ethical accountability – principles that have been at the heart of his career.

Mr. Vazquez spoke with Miami Today reporter Genevieve Bowen. 

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