Building plans to perfection

From skybridges to homeless shelters, Cristo Guadamuz, a permitting and plans specialist with the Regulatory and Economic Resources (RER) Department, has assisted many Miami-Dade County contractors, residents and runners in navigating the many facets of the RER Department.

“I thought ‘runners’ was a term coined by the department, but they’re actually people who ‘run’ plans to where they need to be,” Guadamuz recalls.

Whether the plans need to go to Fire Rescue, Water and Sewer, Regulatory and Economic Resources or the Florida Department of Health, Guadamuz is always ready to lend a hand or offer his expertise.

“Over time, and through assisting other customers, you learn what is needed and can pre-check plans before they reach the reviewers," Guadamuz said.

This dedication was recently demonstrated in an interaction with a runner.

“I am a permit runner and have been permitting for over ten years," the runner said. "Your building clerks are all amazing. I would like to point out Cristo, one of the building clerks who works at the window. He went above and beyond to help assist us.”

Born and raised in Miami, Guadamuz began his career with Miami-Dade County in May 2019 at RER. Starting as a temp and working his way up to a permanent full-time position, he was delighted to recently receive his five-year service pin.

When asked what he enjoys most about his work, he replied, “The people, managers, supervisors and colleagues, create a great work environment. I also enjoy the meticulous tasks involved with some permits. Temporary Certificates of Occupancy are my favorite. You have to investigate the property, pull the master permit and ensure all required permits have been pulled.”

When he's not thriving at work, Cristo enjoys spending time at home with his son, girlfriend and family.

Keep thriving, Cristo.