O. Tom Ruiz
Public Works Director
Mr. Ruiz has been in local government for over 15 years. Prior to coming to the City of Miami Gardens, he worked for the City of Hallandale Beach as the Operations Manager. Mr. Ruiz has a State General Contractor’s License and has been in the construction industry for over 30 years.
Mr. Ruiz holds a Masters degree in Public Administration from NOVA Southeastern University and a Bachelor of Science in Professional Management. He is an active member of the American Public Works Association as the Chairman for the South Florida Branch.
Mr. Ruiz is the City’s first Public Works Director responsible for the general operations and administration of the department to include City streets, landscaping, and stormwater.
About us
The Public Works Department provides for the design, construction, management and maintenance of the City’s infrastructure, including streets, landscaping, sidewalks and storm drains. In addition, we manage community volunteer programs for beautification and clean-up projects, and pick up of bus shelter garbage. The permitting section reviews and issue permits that include paving and drainage, driveway, and utility plans through the Building Department.
The Public Works Department can also assist with information or questions regarding street signs, street lights, and flood maps, and permits (banners, block party, and parade/public assembly).
The Public Works Department strives to provide top quality, professional, effective, and timely services to residents, businesses and internal customers. We do this by focusing on relationships with ourselves and our customers, and on customer service and satisfaction, thus improving our image and maintaining the community’s trust. Our method in accomplishing our mission will be to implement the goals of the five target areas: Safety, Training, Beautification, Quality Control and Productivity.
We intend to improve the quality of life in Miami Gardens by providing these services.