Miami-Dade County is mourning the loss of Merrett Stierheim, a transformative figure in local government, who passed away on Sunday at the age of 90. Known for his decisive leadership and unwavering dedication to public service, Stierheim leaves behind a legacy marked by significant contributions to the region's infrastructure and governance.
Stierheim's career began in 1959 with an internship at Miami City Hall. His journey through public administration saw him serve in various pivotal roles, including superintendent of Miami-Dade County schools, Miami's city manager, and twice as Miami-Dade County manager. He also held positions as director of the county's tourism bureau and interim manager of both Doral and Miami Lakes. Stierheim's influence extended beyond Miami-Dade as well, having served as city manager in Clearwater and Pinellas County manager before returning to Miami.
Stierheim's tenure as Dade County manager from 1976 to 1986 was particularly impactful. He oversaw a period of unprecedented public works projects, including the construction of the Metrorail and Metromover systems, the South Miami-Dade campus of the county zoo and the 29-story Stephen P. Clark Government Center. These projects were part of the "Decade of Progress" bond package, a $553 million initiative to fund critical infrastructure, transit and civic needs.
"He was just a force of nature," said Jennifer Moon, who worked under Stierheim in the 1990s. "He created the culture of the government."
Stierheim's leadership during crises such as the Mariel Boatlift and the civil unrest following the acquittal of officers in the death of Arthur McDuffie further demonstrated his ability to steer the county through turbulent times.
Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava also expressed her condolences, stating, "Today, we mourn the loss of one of our best and brightest, Merrett Stierheim. He was an icon in government: always honest, deliberate, and true. A mentor and role model to so many, including me."
Stierheim's career additionally included a four-year stint as CEO of the Women's Tennis Association, where he negotiated higher prize money for players and established a pension system for female athletes. In 1990, he became president of the Greater Miami Convention and Visitors Bureau, helping to restore the county's tourism industry after a series of high-profile crimes against tourists.
In 1998, he was reappointed as county manager by then-Mayor Alex Penelas, tasked with cleaning up government scandals. His second term ended in 2001, leading to his final years as a consultant and advisor for troubled local governments.
Stierheim's dedication to professional administration was unwavering. "Administrators, in many cases, are the buffer between the best interest of the public and an ambitious politician," he once said. His commitment to integrity and effective governance earned him a reputation as one of the most respected public administrators in the country.
Stierheim was born on September 25, 1933, in Mineola, New York. He served as a first lieutenant in the Air Force before earning a finance degree from Bucknell University and a master's in government administration from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania.
He is survived by his wife of 41 years, Judith A. Cannon Stierheim, his four daughters from his first marriage, nine grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. Judith Stierheim honored her husband's legacy, saying, "He loved our community and spent his life serving others. He was passionate, energetic, and honest."
Stierheim's passing marks the end of an era for Miami-Dade County, but his contributions to its development and governance will be remembered for generations to come.