About Commissioner Oliver G. Gilbert, III

Commissioner Oliver G. Gilbert, III is a progressive and visionary who believes there is no singular path to success. Born and raised in the City of Miami Gardens, he remains committed to pouring into the community that helped groom him into the public figure he is today. Commissioner Gilbert is a proud graduate of Florida A&M University where he earned his Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice. Upon graduating, he enrolled in law school at St. Thomas University School of Law, he later transferred to the University of Miami School of Law where he held a senate position with the Student Bar Association and was a National Board Member of the Black Law Student Association among other accolades. Upon successfully earning his Juris Doctorate with honors, Commissioner Gilbert knew his calling was public service.

Commissioner Gilbert is a seasoned attorney, licensed to practice law in the State of Florida; the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Florida; and the 11th Circuit Court of Appeals, Federal District Court. With 20 years of legal experience, Commissioner Gilbert’s vast knowledge extends to real estate law, municipal law, constitutional law, civil rights law, and employment law. Throughout his tenure as a practicing attorney, he gained extensive experience working as a public policy maker in areas of education, criminal justice, and urban and economic development. Commissioner Gilbert has served as an Adjunct Professor at Miami Dade College, teaching courses to educate students in criminology, criminal law, constitutional law, street law, drugs and violence, computer crimes and judicial policy.

In 2012, Commissioner Gilbert reached the then pinnacle of his career when he was elected Mayor of his hometown, the City of Miami Gardens. During his tenure, he provided leadership to City Council and City employees, and increased corporate expansion and was the driving force behind the exponential growth and development of new businesses within Miami Gardens. His efforts led to additional job opportunities for local Residents and pumped revenue back into his beloved city. As recognition of the City’s tremendous growth, Miami Gardens was awarded All-America City in 2020, solidifying Commissioner Gilbert’s city as a tri-county economic contender.

Commissioner Gilbert’s civic activities extended outside of Miami Gardens as he is a former President of the African American Mayors Association and held a seat on the Board of Directors of the Florida League of Mayors, National League of Cities, U.S. Conference of Mayors Advisory Board, as well as President of the Miami Dade County League of Cities. His commitment to leadership has been MIAMI-DADE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS continually recognized by his peers as they selected him Chair of Miami Dade County Transportation Planning Organization (TPO) and Chair of Southeast Florida Transportation Council (SEFTC), two initiatives and organizations the Chairman is dedicated to advancing. After successfully serving for 8 years as the Mayor of Miami Gardens, Commissioner Gilbert was elected as the Commissioner for District 1 of Miami-Dade County and was unanimously voted by his peers, as the Chairman of the Board on December 6, 2022.

Now, as Chairman of both the International Trade Consortium (ITC) and the Infrastructure, Innovation, and Technology Committee (IITC), Commissioner Gilbert is committed to advancing Miami-Dade County’s position as a premier hub for international trade. In his role as ITC Chairman, Commissioner Gilbert has successfully led multiple trade missions generating millions of dollars in foreign direct investment in Miami-Dade County.

By leveraging his extensive background in economic development, strategic planning, and community engagement, he is poised to spearhead initiatives that will modernize infrastructure, advocate for the promotion of international trade, and drive economic growth, positioning Miami-Dade County to be at the forefront of innovation and technology. His vision is one of equitable progress, ensuring that all residents have access to enhanced infrastructure and innovative solutions that drive the County forward.

Commissioner Gilbert is a proud member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. and is dedicated to the cardinal principles of manhood, scholarship, perseverance, and uplift. Commissioner Gilbert is also a Member of Leadership Florida and a Miami Fellow, Class V. He continues to be an advocate for the youth and Residents as he represents them as Miami-Dade County Commissioner, District 1.