Sandy Walker
Mayor Otis T. Wallace
A longtime public servant and attorney, Mayor Otis T. Wallace has served with distinction, as Florida City’s top official for 40 years. Prior to being elected Mayor he served as city commissioner for eight years. Wallace has dedicated his entire career to improving the lives of the residents of Florida City, Fl. During his long and productive tenure, Florida City has more than doubled its population, developed a vibrant business community, experienced upgraded and diversified housing options, benefitted from enhanced transit and major infrastructure improvements and survived hurricane destruction and the ravages of a pandemic.
As the gateway to the Florida Keys and the Everglades, Florida City offers some of the region’s newest construction with major business and residential products in its bright future. As a strong mayor Otis Wallace also serves as the City Manager. Public safety and economic opportunities for residents continue to be top priorities. The city has invested in technology for the police depart-
ment and continues to pursue ways to enhance its public safety efforts. Additionally, with the direct participation of Mayor Wallace the city joined forces with The Carrie Meek Foundation, Community Health of South Florida and the State of Florida Health Department to provide ongoing health care services to residents in neighborhoods throughout the city. As a result of this collaboration the city was able to designate two police officers for mental health training and deployment in crucial situations.
Wallace’s leadership was tested with the destruction of the city by Hurricane Andrew in 1992. He, along with the city commissioners and other officials at the county, state and federal levels, focused full attention on rebuilding the city and responding to the dire needs of the residents. Under his leadership resources were secured and Florida City emerged even better than before. From the devastation of Hurricane Andrew, economic recessions, the onslaught of COVID and everyday challenges, Mayor Wallace has
made it a top priority to address the needs of the people he serves. Mayor Wallace and the city commission were laser focused on bringing vaccines, masks, sanitizer, food and other necessary resources to residents. The securing and providing of financial assistance was a major concern and priority for residents during the pandemic. Although the Mayor supports enhanced transportation to get Florida City residents to northern employment centers, he is equally focused on bringing as many jobs to Florida City as possible so people don’t have to leave the city for work. Several new projects are designed with this goal in mind.
Wallace is a graduate of Michigan State University and the University of Miami School of Law where he received his Juris Doctor degree. He is married to attorney Greer Davis Wallace and they are the proud parents of two children and two precious grandchildren.
Florida City Honors Mayor Otis T. Wallace’s Legacy with Municipal Complex and Street Dedication
Recently, Florida City paid tribute to the lifelong service and leadership of Mayor Otis T. Wallace by officially renaming its City Hall as the Otis T. Wallace Municipal Complex. This honor recognizes his decades of unwavering commitment to the community. In addition, with the support of County Commissioner Kionne McGhee, the Florida City Commission designated Northwest and Southwest 5th Avenue—from Lucy Street to SW 7th Street—as Otis T. Wallace Way, further cementing his lasting impact on the city’s landscape.
Mayor Wallace has been a defining force in Florida City’s governance
since he was first elected in 1984, serving as both the city’s leader and day-to-day manager under its strong mayor system. His tenure has been marked by stability, fiscal responsibility, and a deep dedication to public service. In February 2022, he was reelected in a runoff election, which he stated would be his final term.
Under his leadership, the city’s voters approved a significant transition, amending the city charter to shift from a strong mayor system to a city manager form of governance—a change set to take effect after the next city elections in early 2026. The renaming ceremony, led by Community Redevelopment
Agency Executive Director Jon Ward as Master of Ceremonies, drew a standing-room-only crowd filled with dignitaries, community leaders, and longtime colleagues of the mayor. Among those delivering remarks were State Senator Ana Maria Rodriguez, former County Commissioners Dennis Moss and Barbara Jordan, and Mayor Wallace himself. Also in attendance were Florida City’s Vice Mayor and Commissioners, former Commissioner R.S. Shiver, Homestead Mayor Steve Losner, Councilwoman Jenifer Bailey, and former Mayor Roscoe Warren.
Senator Rodriguez and Commissioner Moss praised Wallace’s steadfast leadership and dedication to the people of Florida City, highlighting his role in shaping the community. Commissioner Barbara Jordan took the podium not only as a former County Commissioner but as Wallace’s proud older sister. Placing photographs of their mother and grandmother on the lectern, she reflected on the values of service and perseverance instilled in their family. She spoke of the challenges Wallace faced growing up in a segregated Florida City and Dade County, emphasizing the resilience that defined his journey.
Jordan concluded with a powerful tribute to her brother’s legacy:
“From your first campaign in 1976 to today, you have served this city for 48 years—with no scandals, no financial crises, and no bankruptcies. You have stewarded the city’s resources wisely and represented
its citizens honorably. Tell me, what other city has had this kind of leadership for 48 years? I am so proud to be the big sister of my little brother.”
As Wallace took the stage to conclude the ceremony, the audience rose in a standing ovation. He opened his remarks by quoting a wise saying:
“If you spend your life doing something you love, you’ll feel like you never worked a day in your life. That has been my experience with Florida City.”
Acknowledging the many elected officials present, Wallace extended heartfelt gratitude to both past and present commissioners, his family, and especially his wife, Greer. He humbly reflected on his journey, stating: “I was taught that you don’t serve to be honored, but I have been honored to serve this city.”
Following the ceremony, Wallace led attendees outside for the unveiling of the new municipal complex signs. As the covers were removed, he took a moment to reflect on the significance of the day:
“Being the Mayor of Florida City has been a joy, not a job. This day is the culmination of that joy. To know that future generations will see my name here and understand that their grandfather made a difference—it means everything.”
With this dedication, Florida City ensures that the name Otis T. Wallace will forever be synonymous with integrity, leadership, and a lifetime of service.
Celebrating diversity
We take this time to honor achievements by African Americans and recognize their central role in U.S. history. At Jackson Health System, we celebrate the heritage of our patients, nurses, doctors, and staff.
CELEBRATE BLACK HISTORY
MONTH IN MIAMI
Take time this month to honor the heritage and experience the culture. With a variety of historic Black neighborhoods encompassing music, food, art, memories and more, Greater Miami and Miami Beach has endless ways to commemorate the impact the Black community has had both past and present in Miami. Find ways to celebrate this month and all year round at www.MulticulturalMiami.com.
Taken at the Historic Hampton House
