Long after former Congresswoman Carrie P. Meek ended her political career, she has continued working on behalf of South Floridians to ensure jobs, training and economic development opportunities for residents. With voters having gone to the polls to select Florida’s highest office and several key congressional seats, now is an opportune moment to reflect on a political giant who has championed many causes for South Florida.

In 1993, Congresswoman Meek was sworn in to represent the 17th Congressional District, which is currently the 24th Congressional District. This was a pivotal moment for South Florida, which was trying to regain its footing after a fierce storm accompanied by tornadoes ravaged Miami-Dade County, leaving the South part of town in shambles. Hurricane Andrew ripped Miami-Dade County apart.

Sitting on the powerful Appropriations Committee, Congresswoman Meek steered $100 million to help rebuild Miami-Dade County. Authoring legislation through Congress, Meek focused on strengthening the County’s transit system, airport, seaport, and senior citizens programs.

Congresswoman Meek’s state political career was a driving force behind her confidence level. Having served in the Florida House of Representatives from 1979 – 1983 and in the Florida Senate from 1983 – 1992, Meek had many encounters that helped shape her political prowess.

Today, Meek continues serving her community through the Carrie P. Meek Foundation, a not-for-profit entity that strives to develop the Carrie Meek International Business Park for aviation and non-aviation companies at the Miami-Opa-Locka Executive Airport. Although in the rebuilding stages, the Foundation’s goal is to create 2,300 full-time jobs with average salaries of $37,000. She has joined forces with a powerful team of investors who can help the Foundation utilize those funds the way that they were intended – for public infrastructure to spur economic development.

CNL Commercial Real Estate has partnered with the Meek Foundation to develop 1.75 million square feet of warehouse space that will comprise 60 businesses. If approved by the County Commission on November 5, representatives from the Foundation and CNL will soon begin negotiations to help transform the historical aviation landmark.