2023 Voter Guide

Do you think access to affordable housing is an issue City of Miami Commissioners should address and if so, what steps will you take to address the issue?

Yes, The City of Miami has been notorious when it comes to the homeless, the poor and the elderly. We have so many homeless people that I see on a daily basis and most of them tell me that they are waiting for a Section 8 or some other type of government aide to receive lodging. In District 1 we have the highest amount of unemployment, homeless and elderly people. Even though we pay the same taxes…

As Commissioner, will you take actions to make Miami more walkable and bikeable? If so, what would those actions be?

Yes, The City of Miami has developed bicycle paths in all the other districts. However in Allapattah and District 1 for that matter, does not enjoy the same attention to pedestrians and bicyclists. I am a bicyclist myself and believe that we should have the same pedestrian/bike paths that all the other districts have. I am currently organizing a bicyclist rally that will be held in October.

As Commissioner, how will you work to prevent and prepare the City of Miami for floods, hurricanes, and other natural disasters?

I have been in the insurance business for over 20 years.  I attend conferences and meetings regarding climate change and sea level rise yearly.  Therefore, I am knowledgeable about the great issues that the City of Miami faces and therefore, the State of Florida when it comes to natural disasters.  We must keep in mind that Florida is basically what one would consider as a flat State, meaning that…

Do you think that protecting the environment, increasing tree canopy, and ensuring access to public green spaces and parks are issues Miami Commissioners should address? And if so, what steps would you take to address these issues?

I have been an advocate of the environment since I was a teenager. I have been a member of green peace, PETA and other organizations that are advocates of the environment. I have volunteered yearly in ocean, river and other land cleaning up debris, trash, plastic and other items that are harmful to our environment. I want to educate our citizens that dumping, and disposal of other environmentally…

What are your views on the disparate impact of incarceration on Miami’s communities of color?

As a retired police officer of 27 years, with City of Miami police department I have seen the unfair treatment and abuse not just to colored people, but also to the homeless, the elderly and the poor.  My record as an advocate of fair and non-discriminating law enforcement it is very clear. I recently advocated and I am still defending a black gay female former City of Miami code enforcement officer…

How will you increase government accountability and representation from diverse communities in the City of Miami?

We need an oversight group and/or committee to continuously monitor the expenditures of our tax dollars because as of the day of this response, the Mayor, Commissioners and fire and police officials spend whatever amount they desire without any checks and balances.  

How will you ensure our elections and redistricting process are fair, accessible, and equitable?

We must have more monitoring and oversight of our election process.  The City of Miami has a notorious history of voter fraud that has been publicized for decades.  As stated in newspaper articles and other social media outlets, they have reported that most are elected officials and/or city officials are under State and Federal investigations because of the voter fraud and fraud in general.

Do you think access to affordable housing is an issue City of Miami Commissioners should address and if so, what steps will you take to address the issue?

Yes it has always been a serious concern because the waiting lists to get any affordable unit is on high demand. Construction initiatives. Not enough. There needs to be more housing built have a % of units in all apt bldgs designate as affordable housing besides base on the senior population specifically the income level is so low living on their retirement or gov assistance with food stamps. 

As Commissioner, will you take actions to make Miami more walkable and bikeable? If so, what would those actions be?

One of my goals is to adding more sidewalks in District 1. More sidewalks in our parks to attract our patrons to exercise and enjoy the outdoors. To connect from our neighborhoods to our parks our greenway spaces to our transit systems…. Like the Underline Project that’s been a success. 

As Commissioner, how will you work to prevent and prepare the City of Miami for floods, hurricanes, and other natural disasters?

I work at the County with preparing all documents relating to Hurricane and National Disaster Manuel with Emergency Management. I attend FEMA trainings  that prepare us with a hurricane. I am a City of Miami Fire Rescue C.E.R.T. Member which I’m trained to assist before a hurricane during a hurricane and in the aftermath in our community. I trained how to deal with flooding in our streets. 

Do you think that protecting the environment, increasing tree canopy, and ensuring access to public green spaces and parks are issues Miami Commissioners should address? And if so, what steps would you take to address these issues?

Yes, I want District 1 to have canopies like in other parts of the City. I always made the statement when I served on the City Planning Board I want canopies like District 2 and 3. We need to invest in having more trees planted in our parks and street right a ways. We need to have a master plan to give our businesses and neighbors incentives to plant more trees. 

What are your views on the disparate impact of incarceration on Miami’s communities of color?

We need to provide alternatives to all diversity groups to know how to seek jobs and vocational training for different trades. We need to address the social problem on not continuing their education. Assistance to learn how to complete a job application and social services. Many don’t know what resources exist. 

How will you increase government accountability and representation from diverse communities in the City of Miami?

Engagement reaching out with town meetings, information on a monthly or quarterly base by also having a kitchen cabinet and meeting with key local neighborhood leaders on how the City of Miami is serving the different needs for everyone. Having and naming more folks from different diverse groups to serve on City boards. 

How will you ensure our elections and redistricting process are fair, accessible, and equitable?

The census happens every 10 years and I have belonged to the County Census Board which one try’s to communicate how important it is to complete the questionnaire provided by the federal government which affects how much funding es h community receives base on the population level. 

Do you think access to affordable housing is an issue City of Miami Commissioners should address and if so, what steps will you take to address the issue?

Yes. The rise in cost of living in Miami has been the largest in the country and has greatly outpaced wage growth. The City of Miami has offered funding to developers to renovate existing affordable housing and it should continue to do so, but it should increase incentives for developers to build new affordable housing with new developments without changing the nature of our communities…

As Commissioner, will you take actions to make Miami more walkable and bikeable? If so, what would those actions be?

Absolutely. I myself am a runner and love to explore our city by riding a bicycle around it. Miami has made large improvements over the past decade to become more walkable and bikeable, but more action is needed. Many residents of District 1 utilize Miami’s existing bike lanes, and I would work as commissioner to make sure those are expanded and well maintained.

As Commissioner, how will you work to prevent and prepare the City of Miami for floods, hurricanes, and other natural disasters?

Climate change and sea level rise are existential threats to Miami’s long term existence, and will increasingly make flooding, hurricanes, and natural disasters more damaging to Miami’s residents. As Commissioner, I would support existing and established plans like the Miami Forever Climate Ready Strategy and the Stormwater Master plan.

Do you think that protecting the environment, increasing tree canopy, and ensuring access to public green spaces and parks are issues Miami Commissioners should address? And if so, what steps would you take to address these issues?

Yes. Miami is a world class city and deserves world class green spaces, parks, and a clean environment. As commissioner I’ll fight for funding to make sure we build new spaces and that existing parks are open and accessible for the use of all residents. Miami’s residents and economy depend on water and beaches, so prioritizing effort to reduce pollution into Biscayne Bay is critical.

What are your views on the disparate impact of incarceration on Miami’s communities of color?

Communities of color face the brunt of the inequities of the criminal justice system. The residents of Miami deserve a safe community and that starts with addressing the core causes of crime by raising the standards of living for low income communities. Focus should also be placed on successfully reintegrating returning citizens back into jobs and communities to break the cycle of recidivism.

How will you increase government accountability and representation from diverse communities in the City of Miami?

The lack of government accountability and representation is why I chose to run for office. For too long elected officials in City Hall have represented themselves and wealthy special interests, not everyday working people. As commissioner, I’ll make sure the residents of District 1 have a voice in City Hall by holding regular meetings with residents, ensuring my offices are open to all.

How will you ensure our elections and redistricting process are fair, accessible, and equitable?

I would start by supporting efforts to move the City of Miami elections to coincide with Miami-Dade County’s municipal elections in August of even years. Turnout in Miami’s odd years is extremely low and does not reflect the diversity of the voters. Instead of repeatedly violating the law by gerrymandering the City’s districts, the commission should conduct the redistricting process in the open.

Do you think access to affordable housing is an issue City of Miami Commissioners should address and if so, what steps will you take to address the issue?

Affordable housing is certainly an issue and even more so in District 2.  Rent increase caps, improve housing voucher programs and  all future Residential developments should have a mandatory designation of allocated affordable housing units.    

As Commissioner, will you take actions to make Miami more walkable and bikeable? If so, what would those actions be?

As bicycling continues to gain popularity so does bicycle related traffic accidents and fatalities.  The many roads throughout District 2 that require repaving anyways (Grand Ave., Main Hwy, Commodore Trail) should begin to incorporate designated bike/pedestrian lanes.  As well as strong public education program informing bicyclist, pedestrians & motorist of the laws & courtesies ever changing.   

As Commissioner, how will you work to prevent and prepare the City of Miami for floods, hurricanes, and other natural disasters?

Implementation of proper storm drain pumps, further sea wall constructions, an improved hurricane response fleet but most importantly bombarding the federal government over issues of global warming, pollution and the results of climate change.  

Do you think that protecting the environment, increasing tree canopy, and ensuring access to public green spaces and parks are issues Miami Commissioners should address? And if so, what steps would you take to address these issues?

Absolutely, our tropical botany defines Miami and especially the lush canopy of Coconut Grove.  Without it, we’d be just another city.  I would continue to enforce tree cutting penalties, call for increased funding for beautification of our neglected and bland public parks and endorse environmentally friendly programs such as the adopt-a-tree event.  

What are your views on the disparate impact of incarceration on Miami’s communities of color?

Everything sources back to education.  The implementation of a well-funding and carefully tailored educational programs (social media passive income, marketing, how to file your own taxes, proficiency in computer programs, business-owners workshops) in public schools will combat poverty in communities of color, which in-turn would reduce the need for crime and the tolerance of crime…

How will you increase government accountability and representation from diverse communities in the City of Miami?

Oversight committees and accessible and user friendly web-sites should be establish to ensure Employment Discrimination Laws in Florida and educating all workers, employers and potential employees on recognizing and combating any discrimination.

How will you ensure our elections and redistricting process are fair, accessible, and equitable?

Redistricting should be exclusively contested by voters within their respective districts, not by a commission.  

Do you think access to affordable housing is an issue City of Miami Commissioners should address and if so, what steps will you take to address the issue?

Absolutely, affordable housing is a top priority and an issue that affects our entire county. As Commissioner, I allocated $3.5M for affordable housing in Little Bahamas, Coconut Grove, demonstrating my commitment to this issue. I will continue pushing for affordable housing solutions.

As Commissioner, will you take actions to make Miami more walkable and bikeable? If so, what would those actions be?

As a mom of three and passionate biker, I’m committed to enhancing Miami’s walkability and bikeability. I’ve already co-sponsored a resolution to allocate $4.1M for sidewalk and street improvements downtown. I also supported the pedestrianization of Fuller Street in Coconut Grove, preserving our community’s culture.

As Commissioner, how will you work to prevent and prepare the City of Miami for floods, hurricanes, and other natural disasters?

I’m deeply committed to our community’s safety. I’ve secured funding for pumps and drain maintenance to enhance our hurricane readiness, and I’ve actively worked on a comprehensive Heat Plan to address extreme heat concerns. Additionally, I advocate for comprehensive disaster preparedness measures to protect our residents.

Do you think that protecting the environment, increasing tree canopy, and ensuring access to public green spaces and parks are issues Miami Commissioners should address? And if so, what steps would you take to address these issues?

Absolutely, these are vital issues. I’ve supported green initiatives, including tree planting in Little Bahamas as part of a comprehensive Heat Plan. I’ve also allocated resources to improve parks like Regatta, Kennedy, and Triangle, demonstrating my environmental commitment. I’ve also championed legislation allocating $4.3 million to Morningside Park Living Shoreline.

What are your views on the disparate impact of incarceration on Miami’s communities of color?

Addressing the disparate impact of incarceration on communities of color is crucial. We need to invest in education, create economic opportunities, support community programs, and hire trained professionals to reform our criminal justice system.

How will you increase government accountability and representation from diverse communities in the City of Miami?

To increase government accountability and diverse representation, I’ll prioritize transparency, engage communities in decision-making, and continue to create pathways for underrepresented voices to be heard in policy discussions.

How will you ensure our elections and redistricting process are fair, accessible, and equitable?

I have a strong track record of advocating for fair and equitable elections. I recently voted against the city’s redistricting map, pushing for a plan that better represents our communities. I’ll continue to fight for transparency and inclusivity in our electoral and redistricting processes to ensure they are fair and accessible to all.

Do you think access to affordable housing is an issue City of Miami Commissioners should address and if so, what steps will you take to address the issue?

My six recommendations are using empty properties, community-led housing schemes, new designs for affordable housing, like the Grow Home prototype, new forms of temporary housing, community self-build projects, and readdressing Miami 21.

As Commissioner, will you take actions to make Miami more walkable and bikeable? If so, what would those actions be?

Narrow Streets, widen sidewalks, Commodore Trail and improve the trolley routes.

As Commissioner, how will you work to prevent and prepare the City of Miami for floods, hurricanes, and other natural disasters?

I would support the United States Military and first Responders wholeheartedly as they are always the first ones in and last ones out.

Do you think that protecting the environment, increasing tree canopy, and ensuring access to public green spaces and parks are issues Miami Commissioners should address? And if so, what steps would you take to address these issues?

I am a supporter of tree canopy with native Fig and Mahogany trees which provide shade. Shade cools the areas, create promenade and promote pedestrian and bicycle traffic. Water front parks, more public access to waterfront and parks that provide . All Miamins should have access to clean streets, access to any tool that counters barriers to entry, access to shade, and access to waterfront.

What are your views on the disparate impact of incarceration on Miami’s communities of color?

In reference to Black, Hispanic, Haitian population incarcerated — there is tremendous impact on their communities and their home lives. Normally these men are the breadwinners and that has an economic impact on their families. There is also a economic discrimination for these marginalized citizens of color to make bond. 

How will you increase government accountability and representation from diverse communities in the City of Miami?

I am an inclusive person and believe the only path from today for any City of Miami government official forward is to be transparent and honest.  

How will you ensure our elections and redistricting process are fair, accessible, and equitable?

I recommend that everyone take a picture of their ballot and the mail in ballots are verified. 

Do you think access to affordable housing is an issue City of Miami Commissioners should address and if so, what steps will you take to address the issue?

We address this crisis by increasing affordable and workforce housing projects in our community, working with Federal, State and County authorities to maximize opportunities for residents, focusing on displaced residents who cannot qualify for affordable housing programs. We can find grants through foundations and corporations to assist and look to other cities fighting these issues successfully. 

As Commissioner, will you take actions to make Miami more walkable and bikeable? If so, what would those actions be?

First, we need to repair broken sidewalks, widen pathways where possible and ensure they’re well-lit and free of trash and debris; implement traffic calming measures (speed bumps, curb extensions and narrower lanes) to slow vehicle traffic and improve pedestrian safety; use AI to collect and analyze data on user safety, usage rates and public satisfaction to enhance infrastructure and programs.

As Commissioner, how will you work to prevent and prepare the City of Miami for floods, hurricanes, and other natural disasters?

Fix the flooding by investing in state-of-the-art environmental measures against flooding so Miami is better prepared for heavy rains, king tides, hurricanes, and other natural disasters. Develop and enhance resident-focused educational campaigns promoting climate resiliency.

Do you think that protecting the environment, increasing tree canopy, and ensuring access to public green spaces and parks are issues Miami Commissioners should address? And if so, what steps would you take to address these issues?

The tree canopies are not only crucial for the environment, but they’re also a distinct feature of the character of many neighborhoods in Miami. I want to conduct a citywide assessment to understand current coverage, identify improvement areas in underserved areas, and invest in developing new parks and green spaces, especially in densely populated or low-income neighborhoods.

What are your views on the disparate impact of incarceration on Miami’s communities of color?

This question is best addressed with policies that focus on alternatives to incarceration, reevaluating mandatory minimums, community policing strategies, lower pre-trial detention for low-level offenses, investment in education and economic opportunities, and better re-entry programs with supporting services, and engaging closely with organizations like the Circle of Brotherhood. 

How will you increase government accountability and representation from diverse communities in the City of Miami?

I favor forming an independent public corruption unit to oversee the City of Miami, campaign finance reform and advocate for an ordinance to limit the impact of special interests. I would also support greater transparency and disclosure regarding elected officials at every level. Most importantly, will be the idea that we as elected officials go back to the basics of serving residents. 

How will you ensure our elections and redistricting process are fair, accessible, and equitable?

By implementing independent redistricting commissions to draw electoral districts, preventing gerrymandering and ensuring fair representation for all communities, enhancing election accessibility by expanding early voting, promoting mail-in ballots, and providing polling places accessible. Lastly, engage in public education and outreach to inform residents about procedures, processes, and updates.

Do you think access to affordable housing is an issue City of Miami Commissioners should address and if so, what steps will you take to address the issue?

I will create legislation to have a higher tax rate on condo units that do not require a 12-month lease on condo units. I will limit the amount of rent increases within certain time frames so that landlords cannot cause homelessness. In early 2020, investors began buying up condos, turning them into Air Bnbs. The results are a lot fewer condos on the market and no regulation for affordable houses.

As Commissioner, will you take actions to make Miami more walkable and bikeable? If so, what would those actions be?

Yes, absolutely. First, I would reduce speed limits and add more traffic enforcement officers to prevent accidents. Increasing bike lane widths is a must. We also must remove some signage and billboards blocking streets, literally causing walking jams. 

As Commissioner, how will you work to prevent and prepare the City of Miami for floods, hurricanes, and other natural disasters?

First, I have solutions from Amsterdam for long-term flood planning. In my first week in office, I will be mitigating flooding in most areas that I have reviewed by first cleaning the drains using with pump trucks. Then adding drainage protection over drains to keep large debris from falling in. Then we’ll be sweeping streets at least weekly with hired walkers in each area to pick up large trash.

Do you think that protecting the environment, increasing tree canopy, and ensuring access to public green spaces and parks are issues Miami Commissioners should address? And if so, what steps would you take to address these issues?

Green spaces with proper plants & tree canopies are a main priority. Placing park benches under canopies is critical. I plan to involve the direct surrounding community from Day 1 pre-planning all park changes. Currently, a lot of our parks have misplaced park benches, art in passageways, and obstacles. Natural green spaces where people can move freely are critical for Miami’s future. 

What are your views on the disparate impact of incarceration on Miami’s communities of color?

My office is developing an underprivileged citizen neighbor-to-neighbor program to help citizens of color do the basics. My mom will be in charge of overseeing my D2 Thrive Time Clean-up Crew to clean up West Grove streets, parks, & cemeteries. I am also teaching a series free Miami Thrivetime business classes at Miami Dade College to further help all who want to prosper using free online tools. 

How will you increase government accountability and representation from diverse communities in the City of Miami?

I am an advocate for at least 9 commission seats, which is the minimum number of seats to give our diverse community representation. Per census and statutes, we should have 11 commission seats. I will appoint a community representative to boards such as Virginia Key Beach Park Trust. Additionally, I would like to see police officers on our force to represent each community. 

How will you ensure our elections and redistricting process are fair, accessible, and equitable?

I am the only District 2 commission candidate to formally request that the commission concede and quit gerrymandering maps to save the City money & to create fair elections. The incumbent refused to make a motion, other D2 candidates sat silent. We must prevent ballot harvesting, have humans count ballots, & if we must use machine tabulators they need at min 15 pts .to properly check signatures. 

Do you think access to affordable housing is an issue City of Miami Commissioners should address and if so, what steps will you take to address the issue?

Yes, work with developers and other commissioners to designate city property for developement and adopt by laws to control rent cost. 

As Commissioner, will you take actions to make Miami more walkable and bikeable? If so, what would those actions be?

Yes, as president of Florida Wildlife Kids Conservation Foundation we Raise awareness of going out doors and the benefits.  Would work with public works and address areas of concern. 

As Commissioner, how will you work to prevent and prepare the City of Miami for floods, hurricanes, and other natural disasters?

I would speak with different companies and explore new technology to address flooding.  I would have a stand by volunteer / city employee / plan to be ready before and after to assist residents.

Do you think that protecting the environment, increasing tree canopy, and ensuring access to public green spaces and parks are issues Miami Commissioners should address? And if so, what steps would you take to address these issues?

As chair for Parks and Rec board appointed by Francis Suarez, we where made aware that impact fees that where supposed to be used for green spaces are going to the general fund. I would address this issue to be able to make more green spaces in green spaces not in the middle of buildings.

What are your views on the disparate impact of incarceration on Miami’s communities of color?

I think in all communities there is a lack of leadership starting from fathers to others.  I would assign a neighborhood big brother in areas to work with our youth to prevent the issue before it happens.

How will you increase government accountability and representation from diverse communities in the City of Miami?

By being in the community and having weekly or monthly meetings to address each area.

How will you ensure our elections and redistricting process are fair, accessible, and equitable?

I would work with the state and courts to make sure they rule correct on these issues and see who is to benefit by doing this.