Miami-Dade’s Tax Collector expands access, cracks down on abuse, and returns millions to local governments in his first 100 days
Tax Collector Dariel Fernandez is marking his first 100 days in office with a major win: the opening of the new Miami-Central Office, a full-service branch now under local control. The ribbon-cutting ceremony, scheduled for Thursday, April 24 at 10:00 a.m., represents not just a new building but a larger effort to bring efficiency, accessibility, and dignity back to public services.
A new chapter for Miami-Dade Tax Services
Located at 3721 NW 7th Street, the new site adds 33 service windows and has the capacity to assist roughly 800 residents per day. Previously operated by the state, the office now operates locally—an achievement Dariel Fernandez says is symbolic of his wider push to make government work smarter for the people. “Opening this office is proof that we are delivering real results,” said Fernandez. “We’re moving faster, operating smarter, and treating people with the dignity they deserve.”
Dariel Fernandez: Reform, results, and real savings
Since taking office on January 7, Dariel Fernandez has launched a full-scale reform of the Tax Collector’s operations. Beyond expanding service locations—including Downtown and North Dade—the office now offers Saturday hours and has installed five self-service kiosks in partnership with Publix. These kiosks allow residents to renew and print registration tags on the spot, cutting down on wait times.
Fernandez also tackled one of the most frustrating issues facing residents: appointment scalping. Within weeks, he uncovered a black market where individuals and companies were hoarding and reselling appointment slots. In response, he worked with the County Commission to pass a new ordinance banning the practice—restoring fairness and access for all.
Financial accountability has also been a hallmark of his first 100 days. Fernandez returned over $40 million to local municipalities by forgoing the standard 2% commission, and he cut more than $2.5 million in unnecessary contracts, redirecting those funds into improved training, upgraded systems, and better customer service.
Public service with purpose
With three full-service offices now operating, Fernandez’s administration is proving that a people-first approach to governance isn’t just possible—it’s already happening. “This is your money, your time, and your government—and we are going to treat it that way every single day,” said Fernandez.
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