"Miami interim director now may go for job"

Wednesday, December 8, 2004

Interim director now may go for job
By INA PAIVA CORDLE
The Miami (FL) Herald


Carlos Bonzon, who said he probably wouldn't toss his name in the race to
become permanent Miami-Dade aviation director, seems to be having a change
of heart.

''I'm having the time of my life,'' he said Tuesday. ``There is no better
place to work in Dade County than the airport. The airport is such a vibrant
place, a happy place, an exciting place. There are so many different
cultures. It never stops.''

Bonzon, 60, has worked for the county for 33 years, including three years,
from 2000 to 2003, as assistant aviation director. He was named interim
aviation director in early November after Aviation Director Angela Gittens
resigned under pressure.

County Manager George Burgess has said he would conduct a national search
for a new aviation director, with hopes of having one in place by March. The
county plans to hire an executive search firm, and a team of five senior
county executives will determine three firms to give Burgess today. A firm
is expected to be hired Monday.

At the same time, the county is advertising the aviation director position
in various publications.

Bonzon smiled when he said he didn't know yet if he would apply. He said he
would decide the day before the Jan. 7 deadline.

''What is important is that the community feels that the county manager went
out there and tried to find the absolute best aviation director for the
airport because it is such an important asset,'' he said.

A self-described workaholic, Bonzon said his goals for the airport include
enhancing safety and security, completing the $4.8 billion Capital
Improvement Program, increasing nonaeronautical revenue, attracting low-cost
carriers and further developing the general aviation airports.


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