Through my experience as a City of South Miami Commission and actively engaged citizen, I’ve developed an understanding of how we can approach some of our biggest challenges. That being said, my #1 goal for the next four years will be to serve the community’s requests and concerns. Public safety, public concern, and public welfare will always guide all my decision making.

Environmentalism

Our city has pioneered several environmental issues and plays a vital role in the Greater South Florida area on issues like solar power, green building practices, and increasing green spaces. We need to continue promoting best practices within our city and to advocate for them regionally. We must to be part of the conversation – and the solutions – regarding storm resiliency, sea-level rise, and the protection of our aquifer and Biscayne Bay.

Development

Residential: It’s incredibly important that we maintain the integrity of our residential communities in both quality and character. This is why, on the Planning Board, I have opposed lot splitting and variance requests for increases in height. As a Commissioner, I would take into consideration the character of our unique neighborhoods, advocating to maintain current density and height levels.

Commercial (Downtown): South Miami is blessed with a Commercial district responsible for 60% of its tax base. There are plans in place for the current TODD district along the Metrorail that are progressive in terms of offering affordable housing and environmentally-friendly. I find this extremely promising. As a Commissioner, I will look to increase our tax base with strategic projects that are good for our community.

Parks and Recreation:

I am immensely proud of our Parks programming and the incredible individuals who work for our Parks and Recreation Department. I’d like us to continue to lead the region with amazing parks, both maintaining and creating new green spaces. I believe we should also engage in collaborative efforts for areas like the M-Path and the Ludlam Trail as they impact our community spaces.

Traffic Issues and Pedestrian Friendliness:

We should continue to build safe paths for cyclists and pedestrians in South Miami and encourage this with our neighboring cities for a continuous flow. This will not only provide safety, but also discourage commuters from cutting through our neighborhoods. We also need to work with high-density locations like schools and commercial buildings to ensure that everything is being done to alleviate traffic congestion.

Policing:

Our pioneering community policing practices have allowed us to reduce crime and be on the forefront of change. We still have a lot of work to do and need to provide the support and resources to our police force to do so. That is why I support the building of a new police station and the continuation of our community policing practices. I would also like to further open the dialogue between police and citizens utilizing modern communication practices and our newly hired PR firm for the city.

Budgeting:

As our Local, State, and Federal Government slowly heals from loss in tax revenue, we have to be cognizant of the fact that it may take years to see the same sort of collective budgets and spending we did before. I’d like to work closely with staff and boards to ensure we have a fiscally responsible plan (that doesn’t result in raising taxes) in place while maintaining our core and vital services.